Bahrain This Month - June 2017

WHAT’S NEW | GADGETS | SUPERMARKETS FEATURE

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ramadan & Eid Dining

Deals on Wheels Best Motoring Offers

Festive Feasts and Treats

Happenings

•Shopping Festival •Gergaoun Celebrations •Clothes for Compassion •Animania 2017 •DJ Khaled Hussein Live

Interviews

• Salman Al Mahmeed

New CEO of Bahrain Airport Services

• Paul Fraser

Taking the Helm at Bahrain Yacht Club

• Teodor Ardeleanu

The Wizard of Ki

June 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 6

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

CON

FI D

EN CE

Issue 238

Contents June 2017 RAMADAN KAREEM & EID MUBARAK! HAPPENINGS

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

24

24

Ramadan and Eid Shopping Festival

Enjoy great shopping and activities for families and kids.

26

Ramadan Challenge

A first-of-its-kind karting challenge organised by BKIC. 28 Family

Fun

City Centre Bahrain hosts its popular Gergaoun Festivities.

30 Khalid

Hussein Live

A grand finale to the Eid week at Meisei.

30

32

INTERVIEWS 32

Flying High

Salman Al Mahmeed, the new CEO of Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) speaks of his plans for the future.

34

Diamonds Are Forever!

BTM chats with two jewellery experts for an insight into the world of diamonds.

40

42

36

A Grand Persona

New Ramee Grand Hotel GM Rocco Santopietro reveals plans for his tenure.

38

Creating Social Value in Healthcare

Dr George Cheriyan shares how Bahrain’s only nonprofit hospital has evolved with time.

40

44

48 Bystander This issue’s Bystander pages are chock full of stately events including the British Embassy’s celebration for Queen Elizabeth II’s 91st birthday, the Netherlands’ King’s Day, Russian National Day, the 150th anniversary of Canada and the 46th SKAL Asia Area Congress. Our snappers also captured many other happenings around town.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Man at the Helm

After taking over the reins at Bahrain Yacht Club, Paul Fraser says things are looking up.

42

The Wizard of Ki

Teodor Ardeleanu talks about his passion for martial arts.

44

Fun and Games

Find out what makes Alaa Ebrahim the Kingdom’s number one gamer.

FEATURE 48-50 Supermarkets

& Retail Destinations

A special feature on the best retail outlets for intelligent shopping and top bargains this summer.

June 2017 3

OCEANMASTER CHRONOGRAPH

TIME TO PERFORM

Issue 238

Contents June 2017 Motoring

57

A Turbocharged Triumph!

Charlie Holding takes the Porsche 718 Cayman S for a spin.

58

57

Lots to Like About New Coupé

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class model showcases hi-tech style at its first-ever live online launch.

60 An

Electric Revelation

BMW Group announces production of fully electric BMW iNext at its Dingolfing plant in 2021.

62 Upgrade

to an SUV This Ramadan

The JAC S3 is an ideal choice for drivers that want an easy, convenient and stylish ride.

64-65 Motoring

News and Launches

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

FEATURE

66-69 Deals

on Wheels

A special report on the latest deals and offerings from the motor trade in the Kingdom.

66

78

Downtime

70-71 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town

72 Music: Top Tunes Games: The hot games of the month 74 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 75 Apps: Essential apps 76 Movies: New releases

73 Computer

Dining

78

Gastronomic Gala

Puja Tiwari reviews culinary delights of Sofitel Bahrain’s Pashawat restaurant.

81

86

106

A Sweet Ending

Indulge your sweet tooth with decadent delights sans the guilt at Maki Japanese restaurant.

82

Table Hopping

FEATURE

86-106 Ramadan

& Eid Happenings

BTM brings you a round-up of the after sunset happenings during the Holy Month, including Iftar buffets and Ghabgas. Scour the best venues to break your fast and to celebrate all the thrilling festivities of Eid.

Showcase

108

72

What’s New: Must-have products 109-120 Marketplace: Latest products and services 121-122 Business Bites 108

Regulars 125 WIN

WIN

126 Tarotscope 127

73 www.bahrainthismonth.com

76

128

AD Index Last Word June 2017 5

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month June 2017

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Apple Sharma Contributors Charlie Holding, Behnaz Sanjana, Puja Tiwari

As we head into June, the Holy Month is upon us so I would like to take this

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian

opportunity to wish all our readers Ramadan Kareem.

This special time is a period of fasting and reflection but also for coming

Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

Photography Editor Mona Abdul Jabbar

together to take part in charitable initiatives and spending time with family and friends to break the fast. Even if you’re not actually fasting, it’s an ideal opportunity to sample local and regional dishes that are not available at other

Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan

times of the year. From Iftars to Ghabgas and Suhoors, the island’s food and

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa

budget. See our special feature for a round-up of what’s on offer.

beverage sector excels during Ramadan with something to suit every taste and

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

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

Ramadan also sees the Kingdom’s motor dealers coming up with a huge range of money-saving packages, so if you’re looking to buy a new vehicle, don’t take a decision till you’ve read our special report, which will help you grab the best deals on wheels.

Speaking of motoring, if you’re looking for a recommendation, Charlie Holding has some very kind words for the new Porsche 718 Cayman S and we also bring you news of the latest exciting innovations from BMW. Our interviewees this month include the newly announced chief executive of Bahrain Airport Services, Salman Al Mahmeed, who talks about future growth

Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

plans and surprising performance statistics. Paul Fraser, the recently appointed general manager at Bahrain Yacht Club, tells us the future looks bright for the,

Published monthly by

once threatened, venue and we catch up with another new face, Rocco Santopietro, who has taken on the GM’s role at the Ramee Grand. There’s also a chat about spiritual energy with Teodor Ardeleanu and social media star Alaa Ebrahim talks youth culture, hardcore gaming and Animania 2017.

As usual we have our regular round up of gadgets, apps, websites and more as

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

well as music and film reviews to keep you up to date with the latest offerings in the home entertainment market. Puja Tiwari took a trip to the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa to check out the food and, editor, Apple popped into

© Copyright Reserved 2005-2014 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

•

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

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

Dessange for a treatment. Read on to find out what they thought.

Our photographers have also been out and about throughout the month. Check out the Bystander pages to see if you’re included and checkout our new website at www.bahrainthismonth.com for an even greater selection.

Once again, Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak!

COVER Cover Picture:

Ramadan Kareem!

WHAT’S NEW | GADGETS | SUPERMARKETS FEATURE

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

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ramadan & Eid Dining

Deals on Wheels Best Motoring Offers

Festive Feasts and Treats

Happenings

•Shopping Festival •Gergaoun Celebrations •Clothes for Compassion •Animania 2017 •DJ Khaled Hussein Live

Interviews

• Salman Al Mahmeed

New CEO of Bahrain Airport Services

• Paul Fraser

Taking the Helm at Bahrain Yacht Club

• Teodor Ardeleanu The Wizard of Ki

June 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ 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 2017 7

bystander

Ellie & Lydia

Charles, David, Charlie & James

Queen’s Birthday

HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador, and wife, Sophie, hosted a garden party in celebration of the 91st birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom, at the embassy’s premises. Top officials, ambassadors, businessmen and invited guests attended the event.

The cake-cutting ceremony Steve & Dave

HE William Roebuck, HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Jonathan, Trish, Louise, Rupert, John & Jeamme

Richard, Chris, Shaikh Issa Khalifa bin Abdulla Al Khalifa & Tom

Perwin & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Cassandra & Sean

Sherine, Kawthar, George, Anne & Doris

Saad Darwash, Dr Shaikh Khalid bin Mohammed Al Khalifa & Dr Mazin Juma

8 June 2017

Perwin, Eamon & Anne

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & Jihan

Rashid & Nawaf

Barbie & George

Kizzy & Michaela

Yukiko & Daisuke

Mohamed Dadabai & HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulmalik Al-Shaikh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Downtown

Savour the Ramadan flavour at Downtown Rotana!

Gather with your family, friends and colleagues during the Holy month of Ramadan over a vibrant spread of extravagant Iftar or Ghabga buffet at Al Maha Tent for BD 13* per person, including Ramadan favourites while enjoying the soothing music of the Oud player.

Share 3 days of Eid Al Fitr bliss with a vibrant and friendly ambiance together with a wide selection of dishes in a lavish buffet for only BD 13* per person.

For reservations or more information, please call +973 1311 9999 or email fb.downtown@rotana.com *Prices are subject to 10% government levy and 10% service charge.

PO Box 18345, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, downtown.hotel@rotana.com

bystander

King’s Birthday Celebration

HE Frans Potuyt, Netherlands Ambassador for Kuwait and Bahrain, Zumreta Jahic, Deputy Head of Mission and Jaap W Vaandrager, Honorary Consul in Bahrain, hosted a reception to celebrate the 50th birthday of King Willem-Alexander, King of the Netherlands, at Downtown Rotana Hotel.

HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Melitta & Jaap

Zumreta Jahic, Wendy Vaandrager, Jaap Vaandrager, Anita de Vogel & HE Frans Potuyt

HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, HE Frans Potuyt and other dignitaries

Jacob, Wendy, Jaap, Charlotte & Williemijn

Mr and Mrs Fredriksson & Mr and Mrs Holmager

Qays Al Zu’bi & Mr and Mrs Buemi

Anne, Hendrika & Debbie

Hans-Jürgen, Ayad Al Gosaibi, HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, HE Frans Potuyt, HE Simon Martin, Houda, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Jaap, HE Karim Al Shaker & HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed Afandi

Zeina & Rula

Wolfgang, HE Alfonso A Ver, HE Dr A S U Mendis, Mr and Mrs Lamprecht, Jin, HE Qi Zhenhong & Rehan

HE Simon Martin, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Anita, HE Frans Potyut, Jaap, HE Dr A S U Mendis, Capt Budhager & Prem

10 June 2017

Yasser & Zumreta

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Khalifa Rumehi & Nail Sulaiman

Russian National Day

HE Vagif Garaev, Russian Ambassador, hosted a reception to commemorate the National Day of the Russian Federation at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa. The cake-cutting ceremony

Adel Bodawas & Abdulla Asheer

Waleed Sharif, Sadiq Dawani, Abdulla Buhindi & Yousif Zainal

Mo, Anna, Sasha, Paul, Aza & Mikey

Jawahari, HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulmalik Al-Shaikh, HE Simon Martin & HE Domenico Bellato

Hassan & Rasha

HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qader, HE Hatun Demirer & Waleed Al Rayes

Irina Lora, Jaap & Wendy

Mo & Anna

12 June 2017

Richard & Sandra

Nilanthini, Mamta & Samira

Doris & Panos

Ibrahim Assaf, HE Ahmed Rasheed Khattab & Nejib Friji

HE Chayapan Bamrungphong & HE Nor Huda

Vladimir Smirnov & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

Fedon & Sergey

Konstantin & Alex

Mohammed Al Enzi & HE Abdullah bin Rashid Ali Al-Medelwi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sally, HE William Roebuck & Dennis

Wolfgang & HE Kiyoshi Asako

Canada’s 150th Anniversary

The Consulate of Canada in Bahrain organised a reception to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Canada at the Capital Club.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Anne Marie & Gaby

Duncan & Susan

Karim, Hala, Renee & Alain

Hatem & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

Aliya, Julie, Scott & Martin

14 June 2017

Qays, HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Dennis & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

Dr Ahmed

Samar, Dana, Karina, Reema & Carmen

Dr Mohammed

Jeremy, Gillume & Shanette

Kanaan & Hani

Hind & Mary

Joe, Anita, Micha & Camille

Sharmila, Fiza & Maheen

Dr Farkhanda, Kalyan & Rohini

Anca & Anatoly

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Harmony Maker

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Puglia, Italy

bystander

Nader A Karim, Abdulrahman Fakhro & Jalil Al Ansari

Annual Property Expo The Gulf Construction Expo, Gulf Property Show and Gulf Interiors were inaugurated at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Akram Miknas, Fawas Al Mannai & Jawad Al Hawaj

Nawaf Al Ghanel, Mirza, HE Kadri Al Sayeh & Osama Khalfan

Darwish Al Mannai & Abdulla Juma

Shaikh Hisham

HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Khalid Almoayyed

Ali, Badran, Mazin & Adel

Dr Bijan & Mirela

16 June 2017

Khalil Salman, Mazin Alumran & Khalid

Nekia & Louise

Muna

Dima & Maysa

Mariam, Eman, Razan & Safa

Hassan Radhu

Hassan & Konstantinos

Salman & Jawahari

Aymen

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Italian Navy Reception HE Domenico Bellato, Italian

Ambassador, and Vice Admiral Donato Marzano, Italian Fleet Commander, hosted an exclusive reception aboard the frigate Carabiniere of the Italian Navy.

HE Domenico Bellato, Sophie, HE Simon Martin, Laura & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

Jawahari, HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, HE Domenico Bellato & Donato Marzano

Osama & Rashid

Andy Price & Vicki

Nejib Friji & Nancy

Federica & Silvia

Akram Miknas,HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa & HE Ahmed Rasheed Khattab

Laura & HE Domenico Bellato

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, HE Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, HE Domenico Bellato, HE Kiyoshi Asako & HE Dr A S U Mendis

HE Domenico Bellato, Cristina, Laura & Filippo

18 June 2017

Anne, Vicki & Najah

Amal, Perwin & Rihab

Hassan & Rasha

Ayten, HE Hatun Demirer & Nellie

Gene & Lori

Dr Bijan, Pauline, Natalia, Zaid & George

Lorenzo, Raffaelo & Rosario

Jean Philippe & Luise

HE Taha Abdul Qader, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Perwin & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

official launch of ‘This Is Bahrain� took place during a dinner event at the Fours Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. It was held This Is Bahrain Launch The under the patronage of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and attended by top officials, businessmen and invited guests.

Dignitaries and guests at the event

Hilde, Nabil, Aziza & Dr Faiza

Fatima & Yousif Salahuddin

Amal Almoayyed, Mazen Alumran & Waleed Kanoo

Michael & Noora

Nakhle, Claudine, Chiraz & Aziza

Vicky, Huda & Shaikha

Kishor & Punam

Philippe, Mylene & Kim

Ali, Suad, Amina, Sarah & Ali

Shanthini & Harsha

Najwa & Iro

Edita, Sumaya, Gassan & Waleed Al Rayes

Nada & Ada

Christine & Kelly

Shakir, Sally & Juliane

20 June 2017

Hend & Dr Alanood

Mary & Diana

Bassam

Abdulla

Cheriyan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

R a m a d a n Ka r ee m

Seef District, Opposite The Courtyard

(+973) 17840707

casacucinabahrain

HOME & KITCHEN COLLECTIONS

bystander

Ahmed & Fawaz

Khalid Kanoo & Ebrahim

Hani & Mazin

Karim & Haytham

Interactive seminar

Bahrain Bourse held an interactive seminar introducing Bahrain Investment Market at its premises in the Bahrain Financial Harbour Ebrahim, Mazin, Nabil, Ahmed bin Hindi & Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim

Nanda Kumar, Rami & Wajdi

Marwa & Waleed Kanoo

Amine & Ahlem

Hayel & Judith

Guerlain Launch

Guerlain previewed its latest fragrance, Oud Essentiel, in collaboration with Gallery 21. The launch was held in the presence of HE Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and HRH Princess Esther Kamatari of Burundi, Guerlain’s Brand Ambassador.

Marie & Violette

Nada, Elvira, Laurent, HRH Princess Esther Kamatari of Burundi, HE Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Baron Henri, Chole & Catherine

Adnan, Faye, Silvia & Humbert

Raif, Laurent, HE Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Elvira, Nada, Chole & Fouad

22 June 2017

Mandy, Jacqueline & Ratna

Dalal & Mariam

Nada, Tulin, Farheen & Hina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2017. HAPPENINGS CLOTHES FOR COMPASSION

RAMADAN AND EID SHOPPING FESTIVAL

When? Ongoing-June 24 Event? Charity campaign Venue? Oasis Mall This donation campaign encourages Bahrain residents to give away their relatively old or unwanted clothes to charity. Every customer shopping in any store in Oasis Mall (Muharraq and East Riffa) gets a ‘Clothes for Compassion’ shopping bag. Customers donate items and put the bag in a huge basket placed in the mall. Donations go to the Al Sanabel Organization.

Visit www.landmarkgroup.com/malls/oasis-mall-muharraq/

ADULT FITNESS AND MIXED MARTIAL ARTS CAMP When? Throughout June Event? Health and fitness Venue? Manama Club

When? Throughout June Event? Festival Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

The festival aims to increase the number of visitors from neighbouring GCC countries by providing an additional tourist attraction in the country during the Holy Month. Local merchants will have the opportunity to view the latest international products and can engage in trade talks and deals with suppliers from around the world. It will also provide buyers with product diversification as well as competitive prices, which will indirectly benefit the national economy. There will be a variety of activities for families and young children. Visitors will be welcomed every day from 11am to 3pm, and from 7.30pm to 1.30am. The event runs until the third day of Eid. Visit www.beca.bh

THE WRAPERIE’S 2017 RAMADAN POP-UP

Experience real martial arts training at AlBanna Martial Arts Center, which offers classes in kickboxing, taekwondo, muay thai, kung fu, sanda, boxing, MMA and fitness. Master Ali AlBanna, who has five black belts and over 20 years teaching experience, leads the professional training system. It costs BD40 per month and starts at 7.30pm.

Call 36 668-390.

When? June 2-3 Event? Market Venue? Words BookstoreCafé In its fifth annual season of colour, The Wraperie will showcase its new Gergaoun collection, Ramadan hospitality gifts, as well as baskets and trays that you can purchase and fill with your choice of items. The collection is sourced from around the world and boasts an unrivalled selection of the most colourful baskets, boxes and other items. It runs from 10am-6pm and 9pm-11pm.

Call 17 690-790.

ST CHRIS COMMUNITY BIG BAND When? June 1 Event? Concert Venue? St Christopher’s Cathedral St. Christopher’s Cathedral will be welcoming back the St. Christopher’s Community Big Band on June 1st at 6pm.

The band comprises 18 members, mostly professional musicians, working in Bahrain. They enjoy performing a 24 June 2017

wide repertoire of jazz and popular music under the direction of Paul Bagshaw. Their concert will include Skyfall by Adele, Valerie by Amy Winehouse, Caravan by Duke Ellington, and medleys of songs by the Bees Gees and Stevie Wonder.

Tickets are BD5 for adults, accompanied children enter free.

Call 17 253-866. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

GERGAOUN NIGHT When? June 2 Event? Workshops and festivities Venue? Bahrain Fort Museum Bahrain Fort Museum celebrates Gergaoun night with Fatima Story who will tell the tale of the moon of Ramadan. There will also be a lantern-making workshop and games, presents, and candies. It is suitable for ages seven to 12 years and is in English and Arabic. It starts at 9pm.

Call 17 567-172.

MINI YOGA RETREAT When? June 3 Event? Yoga Venue? Serenity Meditation, Yoga and Reiki Centre Restore and spend a more mindful time with yourself at the Mini Yoga Retreat with Amal Jaffar.

It will cover breathing techniques and yogic sleep practices. The benefits of meditation are many. It has been associated with a longer life-span, and a better quality of life. It strengthens the immune

system, promotes faster healing, lowers high blood pressure, improves sleep and helps to lessen anxiety. It runs from 3.30pm-5.30pm and costs BD20.

Call 36 078-904.

When? June 3-21 Event? Education Venue? Alliance Française Bahrain

26 June 2017

When? June 3 Event? Open Mic Venue? Old Alosra building (Amwaj) It’s going to be a chill evening where all artists and creatives are invited to take the mic for a few minutes to try something new. Do you have a new song you want to perform? A poem? A stand-up act? Anything you’d like to take the stage for? Sign up now for a slot to perform in a laid-back atmosphere. Each slot is under five minutes and it’s a great opportunity to practise getting comfortable on the stage in a low-pressure environment. Musicians can bring their instruments with them on stage, noting that only two mics are available and that all sessions should be acoustic. If you have portable devices you’d like to include in your performance, like amps, you’re free to bring them along and show up half an hour before the event for sound check. All participants must be at least 16 years of age. It starts at 8.30pm.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/MaljaBahrain

RAMADAN CHALLENGE

LANGUAGE COURSES

This Ramadan Alliance Française Bahrain is offering crash courses in French (all levels) for children aged four to 16 years and adults.

Throughout the wide range of classes, participants will learn

GET CREATIVE

the basics of the language. A placement test is required for all incoming students who have previously studied French. The Alliance Française reserves the right to request that a student repeat a course if it is deemed necessary.

For timings, participation requirements and fees, call 17 683-295.

When? June 5 Event? Go-karting Venue? Bahrain International Karting Circuit Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) will be holding the Ramadan Karting Challenge at its premises in Sakhir. This event is a first-of-its-kind organised by BIKC and it has been designed to help cater to the demands of racing aficionados during the Holy Month. The challenge is set to feature two rounds – the first will be held on June 5 followed by round two on June 12. Racing is scheduled for a 9.30pm start on both nights.

The format of the challenge is similar to the Bahrain SWS Sprint Championship.

Youngsters between the ages of 12 and 14 may also take part. They will be competing against one another for the Junior Cup. Entry fee is BD45 per driver. Registered drivers will have the benefit of enjoying BIKC’s SWS Practice Promo, where karters will get a free go for every session purchased. Valuable prizes have been allocated

by BIKC for the overall winners in the challenge.

For the Senior Cup, first and second place get one free experience in a Clio Cup sports car, while third to fifth place will get a free experience in a 125cc Rotax Senior Max kart. In the Junior Cup, each of the top five receive a free experience in a 125cc Rotax Junior Max kart.

Visit www.bahrain-karting.com or call 17 451-745.

When? Ongoing-June 24 Event? Charity campaign Venue? Oasis Mall E Visit http://www. landmarkgroup.com/ malls/oasis-mallmuharraq/ When? Throughout June Event? Health and fitness Venue? Manama Club E Call 36 668-390.

When? June 1 Event? Concert Venue? St Christopher’s Cathedral E Call 17 253-866.

When? June 1 Event? Shopping Festival Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre E Visit http://www.beca. bh When? June 2-3 Event? Market Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Call 17 690-790.

When? June 2 Event? Workshops and festivities Venue? Bahrain Fort Museum E Call 17 567-172.

When? June 3 Event? Yoga Venue? Serenity Meditation, Yoga and Reiki Centre E Call 36 078-904.

When? June 3-21 Event? Education Venue? Alliance Française Bahrain E Call 17 683-295.

When? June 5 Event? Go-karting Venue? Bahrain International Karting Circuit E Visit www.bahrainkarting.com or call 17 451-745.

When? June 7 Event? Festive celebration Venue? Oasis Mall E Call 13 323-332.

When? June 9-10 Event? Pop up market Venue? La Santé Women›s Wellness Centre E Call 37 119-590.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

GERGAOUN CELEBRATIONS When? June 7 Event? Festive celebration Venue? MODA Mall

FUN ACTIVITIES

This Ramadan, MODA Mall will be hosting cultural activities including fun-filled Gergaoun celebrations for children.

Moreover, live qanoon performances will soak up the festive ambience during last three days of the Holy Month. Adding to the festivities, visitors will be rewarded for their every purchase of BD20 or more at the mall with a raffle ticket and a chance to win a jewellery set as the grand prize.

Call 13 323-332.

MAKE A SPLASH When? June 9-10 Event? Pop up market Venue? La Santé Women’s Wellness Centre

When? 15th day of Ramadan Event? Festive Venue? Four Seasons Bahrain Bay A kids club, conveniently located beside the Al Bahrain Ballroom, keeps younger guests as happy as their parents. It features exciting activities such as 3D arts and crafts, henna, face painting, memory and video games, fashion shows and puppet shows. It is open daily from sunset to 10.00 pm. On the 15th day of Ramadan there will be activities, including a candy hunt, singing traditional songs and storytelling.

Call 17 115-000.

SWEET MUSIC

This ladies-only event will showcase a number of summer holiday must-haves including swimwear and more. This is the second edition of Bahrain Pop-up Market and it will be held at La Santé Women’s Wellness Centre. The event will run from 8pm-midnight on both nights. Female DJ Kayan will be performing at the event and there will be a total of 15 vendors.

Tables cost BD130 for both nights.

Bahrain Pop-up Market’s concept is to be held at different local businesses’ locations each time to help business owners attract new customers to their businesses. It aims to encourage small and emerging entrepreneurs to participate in a vibrant and fun pop up markets where they showcase their creations to the general public for sale.

Call 37 119-590.

When? June 17 Event? A morning of Brazilian children’s music with Marcelo Schmidt Venue? Words BookstoreCafé Brazilian composer, musician and poet Marcelo Schmidt will be at Words for a performance of his children’s songs.

Schmidt is part of the musical group Jardim de Cataventos, and has published five children’s books, which celebrate storytelling, legends and the music of Brazil. The event starts at 11am.

Visit www.jardimdecataventos.blogspot.com

FAMILY FUN When? June 12 Event? Gergaoun Venue? City Centre Bahrain The mall is hosting its popular Gergaoun Festivity for families. A traditional Bahraini band and the ‘Fraisah’ – a traditional figure of the festival – will lead visitors around the mall whilst distributing bags of nuts and candies. It runs from 9pm to midnight.

Visitors can enjoy traditional Arabic hospitality with complimentary gahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates, as well as live entertainment by an oud player, setting the tone for relaxed and enjoyable evenings.

The mall is also launching its ‘Make a Difference’ campaign. This year, it will support the Bahrain Islamic 28 June 2017

When? June 12 Event? Gergaoun Venue? City Centre Bahrain E Call 17 177-777.

When? June 12 Event? Bahrain Writers› Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Get together for a literary evening and meet likeminded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? June 13 Event? Bahrain Writers› Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant Enjoy an evening discussing and reciting poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? 15th day of Ramadan Event? Festive fun Venue? Four Seasons Bahrain Bay E Call 17 115-000.

When? June 17 Event? A morning of Brazilian children›s music with Marcelo Schmidt Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Visit www. jardimdecataventos. blogspot.com/ When? June 17 Event? Movie night Venue? Alliance Française Bahrain E Call 17 683-295.

When? June 19 Event? Bahrain Writers› Circle Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant Improve your writing skills. The event starts at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? June 29 Event? Music night Venue? Meisei E Call 17 007-770.

Association. Visitors are invited to donate toys, clothes, books and non-perishable food items. Collection boxes will be located at the mall’s customer service desk on the ground floor.

Call 17 177-777.

When? June 30 Event? Animania 2017 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Follow @animania_ events on Instagram

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Part of your daily life.

Website: yyfakhro.com, email: kitchens@yyfakhro.com P.O. Box 214, Manama, Bahrain, Tel: +973 17408111, Fax: +973 17406080

happenings

FRENCH MOVIE NIGHT When? June 17 Event? Film Venue? Alliance Française Bahrain Jack et La Mecanique Du Coeur is a 19th century drama about a man whose heart was replaced with a clock when he was born. The situation dictates that he should avoid feeling strong emotions – love, most of all – but he just can’t keep his feelings under wraps.

The film is in French with English subtitles. It costs BD2 and juice is included.

Call 17 683-295.

KHALED HUSSEIN LIVE When? June 29 Event? Music Venue? Meisei As a grand finale to an action packed Eid week, Meisei will once again play host to internationally renowned DJ Khaled Hussein with musicians Ghazal & Bakkar. The musical trio rocked the rooftop for the Bahrain F1 weekend.

Khaled became famous on the global DJ scene with his mega hit You & I and the huge anthem Lose Control. He has rocked numerous dance floors around the world in London, Russia, Dubai, Egypt and more, and also has a monthly radio show Khaled Element 8, which airs on ETN.FM. For table reservations, call 17 007-770.

ANIME AND GAMING CONVENTION When? June 30 Event? Animania 2017 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit The convention promises to be a grand spectacle of all things anime and video games, including competitions, tournaments and cosplay. The event starts at midday and continues until 11pm.

Follow @animania_events on Instagram 30 June 2017

When? July 1 Event? Football coaching Venue? Al Ouruba Club, Juffair E Call 39 439-427 or 36 276-661.

BEST FOOT FORWARD When? Throughout July and August Event? Football coaching Venue? Al Ouruba Club, Juffair This professional football coaching session aims to improve the footie skills of aspiring youngsters.

Participants are organised by age groups, the first being four to eight years and the second being nine to 14 years.

The training will focus on physical fitness, enhancing stamina and strength, on-the-ball techniques, goalkeeper practise and actual football matches.

There are five coaches, all of whom are certified by the Bahrain Football Association. It costs BD30 for one month or BD50 for two months.

Call 39 439-427 or 36 276-661.

When? July 1 Event? Revision classes Venue? Oasis Training Centre E Call 17 330-823.

When? July 2-27 Event? Summer camp Venue? The 7th Wave Performing Arts School E Call 17 442-900.

REVISION PROGRAMME When? July 1 Event? Revision classes Venue? Oasis Training Centre The Certificate in Insurance and Financial Services, known as Cert CII in the insurance industry – is made up of three awards – the award in general insurance, unit IF3 underwriting process, and the award in financial planning. This is a

professional qualification from CII – the Chartered Insurance Institute UK and is used as the standard for the insurance industry here in Bahrain.

Funded by Tamkeen under the professional certification scheme, it is offered as a package of revision courses and exams for all three awards.

Call 17 330-823.

MUSICAL THEATRE CAMP When? July 2-27 Event? Summer camp Venue? The 7th Wave Performing Arts School Sign up for an exciting month of performing arts for your child to enjoy. Fully professional teachers and a team that is CPR/first-aid certified will serve your children. The Musical Theatre Camp is about building confidence through the performing arts. It has been developed to build dance, drama and singing skills. Students will focus on vocal ability, diction, movement, setting, staging and musicality. Limited class sizes ensure that each child gets the special attention and professional level of education that will assist them in advancing their own creative talents. Students will work together to create different performances from

popular musicals (Aladdin, Wicked, Beauty & the Beast, etc). Only students registered for the full month will be able to showcase their performances.

The camp runs from 10am-4pm, Sunday through Thursday, and includes a half hour collaborative performance at the end of each day with the whole camp. Daily Dose will provide a healthy lunch with a selection of healthy and delicious options. For the final performance, a costume will be supplied.

It costs BD450 for the full month and there is an early bird discount for registrations up until June 1. Per week option is BD125.

Call 17 442-900. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Join us during the month of Ramadan for an authentic Iftar buffet at Swiss-Café Restaurant.

Iftar from sunset till 10:00 pm Raffle draw every weekends Oud music every Thursdays & Fridays Children from 6 to 12 years get 50% discount Free meal for children under 6 years For every 5 paying adults, enjoy 1 free meal BHD 10++ per person Room packages starting from 42++ The above mentioned rates are subject to 10% service charge and 10% government tax

For reservations, please call (973) 6631 0039

INTERVIEWS

FLYING HIGH LIZ O’REILLY

ALSO THIS MONTH: 34 DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER 42 THE WIZARD OF KI

Salman Al Mahmeed, the new CEO of Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) speaks of his plans for the future.

month to provide vehicle and equipment repair and maintenance services in Oman. Swiss Port is a huge international ground handling operation which took on Damman, Riyadh and Jeddah and we have been working with them, sending our staff to help. We did the whole of the Haj travel ground handling for them last year and will do the same this year. We also support Swiss Port in Oman by sending both staff and equipment. That proves that BAS and our staff have the capability and experience to run any kind of operation internationally.

Salman Al Mahmeed

How long have you been with Bahrain Airport Services?

I joined the company 15 years ago as GM support services – which looks after five departments including HR, IT and maintenance.

I was made deputy CEO nine years ago and each time there has been a gap, I have stepped into the role.

How did you feel on finally getting the CEO role and how will it change things?

It was unexpected, I was planning my retirement. I was, of course, pleased. I will say that I respect the board’s decisions and I hope I will deliver the performance that they expect.

The material day to day running has not changed, but now I have more responsibility to think of the future and to find a different strategy and prove to my board that I am capable of running the company and making it more profitable.

How many staff does the company have and what is BAS responsible for?

There are 3,000 staff – of those 1,900 are permanent, the rest are labourers – 79 per cent of that 1,900 are Bahrainis.

We are responsible for roles across the airport – cargo, catering, ground handling etc.

32 June 2017

Are there any surprising things BAS is responsible for that the public might not be aware of?

BAS has a contract to deliver baggage from the plane to the airport in 15 minutes and we are still managing to do that despite various difficulties. We have a very low lost luggage percentage at 0.8 per cent – that’s less than one bag in a thousand. Our on time performance figure is the best in the region at 99.3 per cent – that means we do all the servicing in time [damage inspection of the aircraft, baggage on-load and off-load and catering uplift] to ensure the flight leaves on time.

Part of the BAS mission statement is “Anticipate and respond to a rapidly changing business environment and identify new viable business opportunities within the framework of our core competencies or in other diversified areas as to mitigate commercial risks associated with aviation business seasonality and periodical downturns.” How is this being achieved and are there any new business opportunities currently under discussion?

We are targeting tendering opportunities to provide services in the Middle East and Asia.

We will also be putting in a tender later this

There has been much attention in the international media recently over bans on certain items in cabin baggage – Is there evidence of a need for heightened security and how has BAS responded to this?

To be honest, it has not affected us at all so far. Bahrain Airport is audited by the UK and Bahrain Civil Aviation Authorities and we have just been certified by ISAGO [IATA’s Safety Audit of Ground Operations], which is something we undertake every two years – it’s a guarantee that the station [airport] knows how to handle passengers and baggage.

We’re working together with the authorities such as Bahrain Airport Company and the Ministry of Interior to keep Bahrain one of the safest airports.

Work is underway on a new airport terminal, how will this affect the service offered by BAS? Will there be new jobs?

It means extra equipment and staff – the number of staff will maybe double – and it will need a lot of investment. According to the published reports it’s due for completion in 2019 and progress is going to schedule.

You said you were planning to retire, how do you keep yourself fit for the role?

I am a black belt in taekwondo, I go to the gym daily and play squash. And I love boating and water sports. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER! APPLE SHARMA Some of the most fabulous Graff jewellery graced the shores of Bahrain recently. BTM caught up with two experts in the industry for an insight into the world of diamonds!

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n extraordinary private exhibition was held in the Kingdom, showcasing some of Graff’s rare jewels and exceptional timepieces.

The event was organised in conjunction with Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC).

Representatives of the two companies – Graff international sales director Hugues Jucker and BJC director Dina Shirazi – were on hand to offer advice and assistance.

Having initially worked in fashion, Hugues’ passion was in the luxury industry. “I started my career a little over 20 years ago in this industry of watches and jewellery, but it’s always been my dream to join the Graff company because, as we all wholly agree, it’s the pinnacle of high jewellery worldwide,” he says. “Graff is famous for mining, cutting and polishing the best stones in the world, especially diamonds.”

Graff and BJC have had a long-standing relationship and Hugues is no stranger to the island. “I love Bahrain. I’ve been here quite a few times,” he says. And though the company does not currently have a store in the Kingdom, he adds: “We’re very happy, thanks to the Shirazi family [BJC], to cooperate and showcase our most beautiful jewellery here.

“We want to see a little bit of the market; we know that we have clients of Graff that live in Bahrain. We would like to promote more and let’s see what it can bring in the future.”

Talking about plans of opening a Graff store with BJC, Dina says: “We’re testing the waters.

There are the old clients but we need to gain new ones and I think, with a brand like Graff, you really need to give it a few years to gain 34 June 2017

Hugues Jucker and Dina Shirazi

that new clientele.”

Although there has been no official announcement of Graff partnering with BJC, both parties agree that they are old friends and go back a long way. “BJC is the leading jeweller on the island and has wonderful brands and clients,” says Hugues.

“It would be very prestigious to have a partnership with Graff and to have a Graff store in Bahrain to showcase their diamonds – it’s a whole new world,” adds Dina. “We do sell high-end jewellery but Graff is exquisite, in the sense that the diamonds are signed and they appreciate in value.”

A unique feature of Graff is that although the diamonds are sourced from around the world, the company also owns a cutting and polishing business, with operations in Johannesburg, Botswana and Antwerp.

Explaining the operation, Hugues says: “We have various workshops around the world, cutting and polishing the diamonds to perfection, proportion and symmetry. This is very important to Graff as well as the fact that Graff diamonds are GIA certified. You will see that not only do they have, usually, the best colour and clarity but also excellent cut,

grade, polish and symmetry.”

Graff also guarantees that all its diamonds are conflict-free and traceable.

Hugues believes Middle East locals have a tradition and passion for jewellery. Dina also considers that there is a safety element in the enjoyment of fine jewellery in the region: “We can wear the jewellery, flaunt it and enjoy it, whereas in Europe you’re a bit cautious,” she says.

“People absolutely love diamonds in Bahrain – all colours of stones. And through the years that I’ve been working here, which is since 1992, the taste has also changed. Before people used to buy big sets, now they’re going more for solitaires [individual pieces]. It’s progressing – Bahrain always had a very refined taste and the customer is very knowledgeable about what they want and how they want it.”

Dina advises her customers to buy one amazing piece a year rather than spending money on smaller items.

Opal is her birthstone and, with diamond being Hugues’, it comes as no surprise that he’s a big fan of yellow diamonds.

With no news of a future collaboration, just yet, it’s pretty evident that Graff and BJC is a match made in heaven. Watch this space! www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

A GRAND PERSONA PUJA TIWARI Rocco Santopietro has been driven and motivated by his passion for hospitality throughout his professional life. He talks about his vibrant career and plans for his tenure at this five-star hotel.

Rocco Santopietro

H

aving achieved remarkable success through the years, Rocco has a stalwart repertoire of over 38 years of hospitality experience with prestigious properties all over the world.

His entry into the industry began at a young age. “I always knew I wanted to be in this field and eventually became a hotel manager,” he says. “As a child I would travel with my family and sit in the lobby, watching and observing people. At that time, everyone dressed very elegantly and sharp. But what caught my attention was the hotel manager, who was always talking to people and making sure everything was flowing smoothly. That is when I decided on my future.”

He started his career in 1978 in Switzerland, climbing his way up the ranks from the very bottom. “I have worked with recognised names like The Dorchester, Mandarin Oriental, Raffles in Singapore, The Ritz-Carlton, London and various others,” he says.

This dynamic hotelier was recently appointed as the general manager for Ramee Grand Hotel 36 June 2017

and Spa in Seef and is planning to positively bolster the venue with his expertise.

“The GCC has always been a riveting region and I was keen on exploring the place,” he says.

“When it came to choosing my next stint, I analysed the key indicators of the Kingdom and saw that the country is growing in a way that will make it a central hub for the Middle East.”

Rocco believes that Bahrain has a bright economic future, saying: “The government is doing well. Although the growth surges are not exponential, they are well planned and on the way to developing the nation in all aspects.”

He strongly believes that Ramee Grand has the ability to become one of the best properties to grace the luxury segment. “Ramee is a fivestar hotel that, I have no doubt, could compete with top-tier properties as it is a great product,” he adds.

“Unlike our rivals, agility is the competitive advantage we have in the sector, as we do not need to follow a protocol from any franchise office or headquarter.”

He deems the hospitality that Ramee Grand

offers is different from the rest, and says: “Luxury is a subjective connotation. What is considered as a luxury to one may not be the same to another. I believe time is the true luxury, and we take this very seriously by giving our clients something that will make it worth their while. We personalise each and every experience to cater to individual customers.”

However, Rocco is well aware of the challenges that lie on his path. “Obviously, there are a lot of things to catch up on,” he says. “We are doing what is in our power and we are moving faster than expected to get our market share for the brand.”

His favourite feature of the job is being able to serve people. “I enjoy helping others follow my path and grow the way I did, to mentor and further their career,” he explains. “To see them evolve is one of the biggest pleasures I get.”

His advice to newcomers in the industry is to be resilient and natural. “You can learn the tricks of the trade but sincerity is important,” he adds.

“The only way to get around that is to have a fervent passion for your job.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN: City Centre Bahrain | Seef Mall UAE: Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai | Burjuman, Dubai | Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi | Grand Centrale, Sharjah | Grand Centrale, Ajman | Al Naeem Mall, Ras Al Khaimah OMAN: Oman Avenues Mall, Muscat | Grand Centrale, Barka QATAR: Mall of Qatar | Hyatt Plaza | Doha Festival City Opening Soon QATAR: City Centre Doha & Ezdan Mall (Wakrah)

interview

Dr George Cheriyan

CREATING SOCIAL VALUE IN HEALTHCARE BEHNAZ SANJANA Dr George Cheriyan talks about how Bahrain’s only non-profit medical facility has evolved with the times.

A

fter caring for premature newborns, as their neonatologist, for over two decades of his career, Dr George Cheriyan has been the CEO and chief medical officer of the 120-year old American Mission Hospital (AMH), for the last eight years.

“As a medical student, I enjoyed working in the paediatric department immensely,” he says of his early years. “I felt compelled to work in this very challenging speciality, and further studied neonatology, caring for premature babies.”

After working with Saudi Aramco for 18 years, and heading its large neonatal intensive care unit, he wears a different hat from the one he donned before, going from active clinical practice to predominantly providing leadership to AMH. “I enjoy my work and the challenges in trying to change an institution with such history into a modern healthcare organisation,” he says. “I understand medicine and the needs of patients from the front-end, thanks to my years of experience. So now my role is to create an environment where doctors can provide safe, compassionate care to those who seek it from us.”

Speaking of how the hospital has evolved significantly since he has taken over the reins, he says: “AMH has modernised quite a bit, in terms of its facilities. But the harder task was to change the internal cultural attitude of the 38 June 2017

workforce here. We needed to deliver positive patient outcomes and experiences, which was a tall order. So my involvement was not only in rebuilding the structure, but also the organisational mindset of people, and enhancing their competence in successfully treating more patients.”

AMH has opened up wellness centres in Amwaj Islands and Saar, with a new one being readied in Riffa, all of which are ambulatory care facilities. “It’s only for major illnesses, surgeries or deliveries that patients need to be admitted to a hospital,” he explains. “Homebased and ambulatory services are the future of healthcare.” The hospital’s strategy of growth is in line with this, offering the AMH brand of care within the community.

The new imaging centre at Manama comprises the ultra-modern Philips 1.5T Ingenia MRI machine — the first on the island — a CT scanner, a bone densitometer and ultrasound amenities, making it a one-stop shop for all modalities of radiology.

Not many know that the Reformed Church in America owns the hospital and all surplus revenue is used for patient care in Bahrain.

“Every single fil that has been made goes to expand the facilities of the hospital,” says Dr Cheriyan. “Also, 85 per cent of paying patients help subsidise costs for nearly 15 per cent of

those who cannot afford medical services. So we are going beyond the term ‘corporate social responsibility’; we provide corporate social value through the work we do.”

It is due to this that AMH has never been in competition with other emerging hospitals.

Profit is the bottom line for private facilities, whereas for not-for-profit hospitals, the surpluses are used for patient care and infrastructure development, with no distribution to stakeholders. “Furthermore, all our doctors are salaried and receive no incentives to add to their remuneration. Hence care is delivered as required only. This is why people have trusted our name for decades.”

Citing an example he adds: “Our CT facilities are comparatively less utilised, as they serve a purely need-based, diagnostic purpose only.

The values of AMH are very different from other hospitals.”

The mantra Dr Cheriyan lives by, and which is also imbued in both his physician sons, is that a doctor cannot cure everyone, but can care compassionately for everyone. This simple motto has trickled down the rungs at AMH, making a positive difference to people who seek safe, state-of-the-art and affordable medical care. With his vision for the institution’s constant growth, it’ll probably be a part of our society for the next 120 years. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Choox_bh

“WHY CAN’T I JUST CROSS THE ROAD WITHOUT HAVING MY MOTIVES QUESTIONED?”

At Choox all our chickens are organic and made to order.

Get it flame grilled or fried.

Indulge without being questioned.

El Mercado, Janabiya, Kingdom of Bahrain.

For Reservations Call: +973 1769 0905

interview

NEW MAN AT THE HELM LIZ O’REILLY

Paul Fraser has taken over the reins at Bahrain Yacht Club and says things are very definitely looking up.

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or a while the club’s future was in question as the land was earmarked for redevelopment. Services had been reduced and sailing lessons had not been available for quite some time.

However, the board negotiated a new contract with Edamah, the government’s real estate arm responsible for the site, and the lease has now been extended for a guaranteed two years and possibly longer.

In March, hospitality industry veteran, Paul, was appointed general manager and he has plenty of plans to put the club back on the map.

He says: “We had an open day in May where all the water sports, from paddle boarding to sailing taster sessions, were half price. That was a good start. I think the most important thing is that we’re a yacht club and we want to get people out on the water.”

Through Aqua by Scubalife, the club now offers a full range of sailing courses, from beginners to advanced, which are accredited by the UK’s Royal Yacht Association. There is also PADI diving with lessons taking place in the on-site pool before students head out to open water.

Regular race sailing, once a very popular weekend event, has been resumed and there’s a regatta planned for October.

However, developments are not confined to the water. There has been much work under way inside too.

Paul explains: “The menu has had a complete overhaul – we’ll be doing a dry run in the coming weeks before it’s properly launched.

We also now have a kids’ menu [with the cover designed by his own son] on which everything other that the sausages is homemade – and even they will be made in-house before long.

The new menu has a range of foods with something to suit everyone from nasi goreng to moules marinières.”

Smiling, he adds: “I’ve been spending a lot of time in the kitchen working with the chef. I must say it was a pleasant surprise to find my whites, which I haven’t worn in 14 years, still fit!”

The adults-only bar has had a complete revamp and the area beside the restaurant has been returned to its original use as a lounge, 40 June 2017

Paul Fraser

rather than a sort of café. The main eatery, The Anchorage, has also had an update. It will be serving brunches and catering to private parties and can even be used classroom-style for corporate training days with beachside team building activities included.

Paul says: “That’s the mid-week market I’m looking to attract. When you think about it, this is the ideal venue – we can provide the inside area for training sessions with food and the outside area can be used for exercises like raft building on the beach.

Where else would you get it all in one place, at really reasonable price?”

For the future, he wants to add Playstations

in the darts room, which would become a kids’ space during the day, and also wants to make the most of the beach with full moon parties, an additional pétanque court and, hopefully, a brunch/beach bus for those who don’t want to drive.

On the sailing side, it’s hoped to extend the marina where both wet and dry docking are still the most reasonably priced on the island and berths are hard to come by.

“There’s a lot happening with exciting times ahead,” says Paul. “For that I have to thank the board. They are fully supportive and really want to get the club back into the spotlight in the future.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

A

part from judo and boxing, martial arts were banned in Ceausescu’s Romania, where Teodor grew up. But as a sixyear-old boy, his heroes were movie stars like Jackie Chan and, of course, Bruce Lee with his fists of fury.

He pestered his parents for lessons and was soon attending secret classes that were to ignite a lifelong love both of martial arts and of learning. He says: “I started off with Shotokan Karate [even now the kids at the dojo ask if he’s going to break bricks] and then moved onto the more dangerous things like full-contact boxing and Kyokushinkai.

“Then in my 20s I discovered Aikido; I’ve been doing that ever since. And nine years ago, here in Bahrain, I started Tai Chi studying with Master Shao-nian Bates.

“It was thanks to her that I went, for the first time, to China and met Huang Shifu -– one of the best masters in the country – I liked him so much that I was motivated to learn Chinese and my school is affiliated with his.”

The school, to which he refers, is Ki Train, the dojo Teodor set up in Seef earlier this year after abandoning the corporate world in which he was the successful GM of one of Bahrain’s well known hospitality companies.

A Chen Tai Chi Master and also Japanese certified and affiliated, here, he teaches Tai Chi – a system of slow motion movements that improve physical mobility, calm and release stress from the nerves and mind, and develop chi energy; Aikido – which can involve locks, holds and throws, using the opponent’s own movements; and Ba Gua Zhang, an art of movements which employ the whole body with smooth coiling and uncoiling actions, utilising hand techniques, dynamic footwork and throws.

Each offers extensive physical benefits and Teodor is keen to point out that people use them for many reasons. “Everyone has different motivations for the practice of martial arts,” he says. “Some for self-defence, some for healing,

Teodor Ardeleanu

THE WIZARD OF KI Teodor Ardeleanu talks to Liz O’Reilly about a passion for martial arts that has taken him from the boardroom to the dojo. some for the spirit – for them the training is about enlightenment – some to gain strength.

“What I teach are known as the internal martial arts. They are focused more on building strength and improving energy rather than building muscles – they’re also known as Chinese methods of healing [through the repetition of smooth movements but also from a spiritual aspect].”

And, as an added bonus, he promises that those undertaking regular martial arts exercise will certainly lose weight – as he has himself.

But Ki Train is not just about the physical side of martial arts. It’s also about personal development – whether that’s building confidence and discipline in young students at the regular kids’ classes or helping adults identify and achieve their life goals through oneon-one coaching.

Teodor’s often repeated motto is “everything

you can imagine, is real” and he’s set out on a journey to help people believe and achieve that.

Having left the world of big business, he says: “So many of us let work take over our lives. We forget about our family and even our own health – trust me, I know! At Ki Train, through martial arts and coaching, I aim to help people restore that balance.”

It’s call Ki, but what exactly does that mean?

“You can call it ki, chi, prana – it’s all life energy, it’s what drives us,” he explains. “Our physical body and mind are connected through chi or ki energy. While people are more and more aware about healthy living, for example going to the gym and eating well, often people forget about that inner energy. It’s what’s related to chemical reactions, fighting viruses, having the energy to enjoy life.

“At Ki Train we look at the wellbeing of the whole person: mind, body and spirit.”

With young student Isak Texmo

42 June 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

Alaa Ebrahim at Animania and with young fans

FUN AND GAMES CHARLIE HOLDING This young Bahraini has developed a huge online following thanks to his reputation for being the Kingdom’s number one gamer.

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laa Ebrahim may only be 26 years old but his zest for life and passion for all things entertainment has seen him become a staggering success.

Besides owning two companies – one for advertising and one for e-commerce – he has two million subscribers on YouTube, 806,000 on Instagram and 200,000 on Twitter.

So why do so many people visit his accounts?

Well, they’re in Arabic for a start.

I’ve been gaming since I was a child but I got more into the hardcore level at the age of 14,” he says. “I have been a YouTuber since the end of 2011. I got interested in it because of a game called Call of Duty. I wanted to teach people the news about the game in Arabic.”

Alaa plays a plethora of games across a wide range of platforms but says PlayStation is his favourite. In the past, he took part in gaming competitions but these days he says he likes to 44 June 2017

mostly just watch and cover them for his YouTube channel.

Animania 2017 is probably the biggest gaming event in Bahrain. So far, not a lot of details have been revealed but there will be many fun activities such as a Cosplay competition and gaming tournaments.

Alaa says last year’s event went very well and everyone who took part had a great time and he thinks this year will follow suit. He explains: “The gaming tournament is going to be huge this year. The game is Injustice 2 and the winner will be able to participate in an even bigger worldwide tournament. The next stop is Dubai and then Europe – more details will be announced shortly.

“I am just hoping that we get more support from the country regarding gaming and e-sports. It has huge potential globally and one of the biggest drivers for its success is young adults.”

Alaa believes gaming is a vitally important part of life for youngsters across the island. He says: “After all the hard work or study, you need to release some stress by enjoying your time playing with friends or checking out the latest games that are released. Bahrain is a small country and I believe that it has the biggest percentage of hardcore gamers.”

So what’s the difference between a regular gamer and a hardcore one? Hardcore is anyone with a passionate interest in video gaming; they view it as a sport, a lifestyle, and play for countless hours. Regular gamers on the other hand just play for a while without taking it too seriously.

Whether you’re hardcore or not, there is plenty of entertaining content on Alaa’s social media channels. Visit dvlzstation on YouTube for enlightening gaming reviews and follow @3ala2o on Instagram for the latest details about Animania 2017. www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN IFTAR

The Diplomat Radisson Blu rewards your patience with traditionally curated Iftar at Bahrain’s first rooftop venue, Al Fanar. While you and your family experiencing the magnificent overlooking view to the skylines of Manama, delicious Arabian Iftar dishes will serve your appetite.

BD 16 net per person

CORPORATE GHABGA

Experience Ghabga in Blu way. Authentic multinational and Arabic menus customized for you at the Diplomat Radisson Blu.

LET BLU SERVE YOU

We cater Iftar & Ghabga during the holy month of Ramadan Radisson Blu provides quality catering service. We prepare custom food and drink menus to meet your exact specifications and use the best ingredients.

#RamadanAtBlu For reservations please call +973 39945208 info.diplomat@radissonblu.com The.Diplomat.Radisson.Blu

RBlu_Bahrain

diplomatradissonblu

bystander

SKAL Gala Dinner The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority hosted the 46th SKAL Asia Area Congress with a gala dinner at The Gulf Hotel.

Members of SKAL

Saravanan, Jano, Rahim, Amira, Mohamed Buzizi & Hameed

Jules, Brenda & Lauren

Jill & Garfield

Ron & Travis

Anurag, Manon, Ranjini & Carls

46 June 2017

Mario, Bola & Kirthi

SKAL president David Fisher receiving citation

International Skalleagues welcomed to Bahrain

Gemma, Susana, Gabriela & Cesar

Msallam, Fahad, Salman & Ramzi

Vijay makes his presentation

The bold and the beautiful of SKAL assemble for a photo opportunity

Mirza & Waheed

Hussain & Rahim

CD Singh & Tilotna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, hosted 46th SKAL Asia Area Congress HE the opening ceremony of the 46th SKAL Asia Area Congress at The Gulf Hotel.

Members of SKAL with top officials

David, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa & Mohammed Buzizi

David & Jano

Fuad, Abdulla & Sadiq Dawani

Rahim, Ebrahim & Garfield

IMAGING Center The Ingenia 1.5T S, AMH’s new MRI system, designed to drive ‘First time right’ imaging while also facilitate a faster workflow, with the overall aim of enhancing the patient’s experience during MRI examinations.

17 17 77 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Susana & Bruno

Ranjini & Jason

Ivan, Wai & Ada

The in-bore solution offers patients a comforting, engaging visual distraction and provides the opportunity to personalize their experience and feel empowered. The patient selects a theme to fill the room with a colorful video image which is viewed while in-bore and is combined with soothing audio to enhance the experience and create an immersive experiences.

www.amh.org.bh June 2017 47

supermarkets&retaildestinations

BAHRAIN: A Shopper’s Paradise BTM brings you a comprehensive round-up of local spots, some well known and others hidden gems, where you can shop till you drop during the social frenzy of Ramadan and the run-up to Eid.

The Holy Month, the phase of fasting and reflecting on one’s life and purpose, is also the time when islanders are at their social best. During the day, the country is peculiarly quiet, but after the ritual prayers of sundown, the roads are humming with satiated souls out to meet and greet their dear ones.

Needless to say, shopping for essentials, especially foodstuff, is in full swing throughout the month.

Whether you’re having a festive gathering at home or looking to buy gifts for family and friends, there is a plethora of supermarkets and retail outlets dotted around the island to get you geared up for this busy period.

Groceries Galore Kitchen cabinets and pantries need to be stocked up with special ingredients that go into whipping up Ramadan delicacies, in addition to the regular staples.

The island has no dearth of supermarkets, hypermarkets and department stores to get what you are looking for. However, there are some that have been around for decades and have earned a reputed name for themselves, such as Jawad Supermarket, through premium products and friendly customer service. The shopping aisles of this store are filled with products from international brands, household essentials and fresh produce (local and imported).

Situated within the residential neighbourhoods of Barbar and Nuwaidrat, it is the shopping place of choice for locals and expatriates alike. The stores

48 June 2017

also have fresh meat, a deli and a well-equipped bakery churning out oven-fresh goodies all day long.

Géant, at the Bahrain Mall, deserves a mention for being Bahrain’s first-ever hypermarket. This shopping playground has everything one may possibly need for daily life – groceries, apparel, footwear, practical home items, gadgets and electronics, all under one giant roof. Its appeal has not waned over the years and it still holds the loyal patronage of its customers.

Lulu Hypermarket caters for expatriates and locals alike, with a special focus on the Indian diaspora. This is a great place to purchase ethnic masalas, spices and condiments, Indian meat and fish, as well as imported foodstuffs and chilled meats. Besides this, the best international brands of electronics, footwear and clothes can be found here.

Carrefour is one of the more recent entrants on the hypermarket scene, but has spectacular deals and bargains during this period. Besides domestic and edible products, check out its clothing and home linen collection – you’re sure to find decent quality at reasonable prices. It also stocks electronics, offered at value for money.

Alosra supermarket, a firm favourite of many, continues to offer its customers a feel-good shopping experience, with a unique mix of local and international top-quality brands and wholesome foods. Through its user-friendly shopping website, Alosraonline, people can shop for products from the www.bahrainthismonth.com

comfort of their homes. The groceries get delivered to your doorstep on the same day, if the order is placed before noon.

Megamart and Al Jazira supermarkets are most convenient shopping points on busy days when time is of the essence. Not only do they have fresh fruit and vegetables from local brands, such as Al Ghalia and Peninsula Farms, but also exotic produce from far off lands for you to experiment with. The wide variety of baked goods, cheeses, preserved meats, eggs and other dairy products, together with a fair range of domestic and personal-care goods, make these stores many people’s trusted favourites.

Bulk Bargains With a whole month’s worth of cooking Ramadan delights, as well as hosting social evenings that run late into the nights, you have to be well prepared for the occasion.

Organising gatherings needs a thorough inventory of kitchen and service items, besides meticulous planning and convenient kitchen gadgets.

That’s what outlets like Ramez, Al Anwar Discount Centre and Kingdom Pride offer. These shops are sprawling spaces, chock-full with regular and unusual home items that will captivate you from the get-go. And the best part is that most of the wares are available at a fraction of the cost as compared to other conventional lifestyle-product shops. From unique serving dishes, to cookware, toys, stationery items, party disposables, table linen, soft furnishings, miscellaneous plastics, storage solutions, floor coverings, garden basics and a load of other useful knick-knacks, it’s all there. So be prepared to venture in, looking for a few items on your checklist, and walk out with a full trolley.

Dragon City is another retail destination that has some neat home-related, gift-worthy and personal products at prices that are a steal. If you want your house and outdoor area to be aglow to mark this festive time, the

www.bahrainthismonth.com

mall is a warren of stores offering myriad lighting solutions. Its share of outlets offering quirky furniture, landscape accessories, beautifully patterned wallpaper, unique toys and clever bric-a-brac is commendable.

Adliya’s famed strip of Block 338, nicknamed Shawarma Alley, has a notable number of authentic carpet shops that sell rugs and handmade floor coverings from the most important carpet capitals of the world. It’s a smart way to add a new dimension to your interiors, but don’t forget to haggle.

Local Labyrinths The epicentre of the shopping world in the Kingdom has to be the Manama Souq. Enter the regal archway of Bab Al Bahrain for an ambiance different from the rest of the central business district.

The seemingly endless maze of alleyways, laden with souvenirs of Bahrain and the Gulf, jewellery shops, textiles and spices, will engulf you from beginning to end.

You are bound to find things that are apt for your home, gifting or personal use during Ramadan, including Persian chandeliers, silk scarves and Arabic spices. The tailoring houses spread across the souq can stitch you a dapper suit without burning a large hole in your pocket.

Gold City and the old Gold Souq are also in the precincts if you fancy splurging on precious metals and original Bahraini pearls.

The Muharraq Souq, smaller than its Manama cousin, has a palpable yesteryear vibe to it. It is on the famed Pearling Trail and is the stop to make for purchasing local sweets like halawa as well as ethnic wear, pickles, traditional abayas or jalabiyas for women, local coffee and spices for your ouzi or mathrouba.

Stock up on fresh produce either from Manama’s enormous Central Market or Souq Waqif, the mini bazaar in Hamad Town. Your best bet for cost-effective purchases of soft furnishings and upholstery, mattresses and bed linen, light-weight furniture, utensils for largescale cooking as well as wholesale purchases of cereals and pulses (it is Ramadan, after all!) is the Isa Town Market, also known as Souq Al Haraj.

June 2017 49

supermarkets&retaildestinations JAWAD BUSINESS GROUP

Fresh and Delicious

Pascal

This supermarket stalwart has French-inspired treats ready for you to make your day a happy one.

50 June 2017

A pioneer in the modern supermarket concept, the Jawad Business Group opened its first store in 1960 in Manama, bringing a range of the finest groceries and household products to Bahrain’s shores. The shop expanded into what we today know as the state-ofthe-art Jawad Supermarket, stocking premium international brands, along with wholesome fresh produce, meat, cheese, deli and bakery products.

Over the decades, the superstore has been renowned for its high standards of quality and reliability, underlined by friendly and prompt service.

The outlet anticipates market trends and meets customer demands for new products and services, which has remained its hallmark. In keeping with this, the conglomerate’s sprawling branch at Barbar now has a whole new array of tempting choices for its customers to start the day with. Choose from a delicious selection of scrumptious items from the newly refurbished, high-tech bakery managed by

French master baker Pascal. You’ll be spoilt for choice – flaky croissants, cinnamon rolls, melt-in-your mouth muffins, light-as-air gateaus, cupcakes and much more will vie for your attention.

A variety of delectable fresh goodies roll out from Pascal’s oven all day, every day. Moreover, if you need something specially baked just the way you like it, you can just let Pascal know and he will ensure it’s ready for you. On the other hand, if you are planning a special meal or hosting guests at your home, your order will be delivered directly to your house - warm from the oven and super fresh at just the right time.

The store has been constantly upgrading its services and expanding product lines to ensure that its discerning customers have local access to the best international fare. Food festivals and themed concepts are regular features at the shopping outlet, bringing the taste of different regions of the world to Bahrain. Cooking classes by French chef Alexandra Mariot, the Jawad Supermarket brand ambassador, have proved to be a hit ever since they started, giving a perfect opportunity to try out products first-hand, while developing great cooking skills. Alexandra holds classes every Monday from 10am to noon at the shop at Barbar.

This convenience giant has been known to go out of its way to serve only the very best in fresh produce and provisions, while also engaging in a number of innovative initiatives for the benefit of its patrons.

Call 33 445-841 or visit the Jawad Dome in Barbar or The Centre in Nuwaidrat. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Pianist Concert

Jazz/soul singer and pianist Karen Edwards held a concert at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art.

Citizenship Speech

The Riffa Views International School held a citizenship speech by HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa at its premises.

Karen Edwards

HH Shaikh Nasser

Sara & Iwan

Alexandra & Christophe

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Danny & Josie

Fatima, Dejna & Pierre

Mohammed & Isa

Kate & Peggy

Lulwa & Fatima

Gary & Shannon

Nellie & Leblanc

June 2017 51

bystander

German Breakfast and Catalogue Show The German-Saudi Liaison Office for Economic Affairs, held the German Breakfast & Catalogue Show 2017 at the Sheraton Hotel.

Udo, Wolfgang, Hans & Boris

Mark Pey, Ratheesh, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Oliver

Mueller, Debasish & Mohammed

Shaden

Wael, Khalid, HE Alfred Simms-Protz, Abdul Hamid Hatim

Khalid & Birgit

HE Vagif Garaev & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Oliver

Bahrain Rugby Football Ball held its End-ofEnd of Season Ball The Season Ball 2017 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Fuad & Esam

Richard, Martin, Marie & Carole

David, Tom, Honey, Steve & Steve

Elaine, Olive, Michael & Lindsay

52 June 2017

John, Debbie & Matt

Dave & Palm

Paula, Aaron & Callan

Margaret & Alan

Chris & Pet

Kiaran & Maureen

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL QASR TENT

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA Iftar Buffet Weekdays

BD

15 ++

Weekends (Thursday and Friday)

BD

17 ++

Daily – from Sundown to 9:00PM

Ghabga Buffet Weekdays

BD

13.5 ++

Weekends (Thursday and Friday)

BD

15 ++

Daily – from 9:30PM to 2:00AM

EID AL FITR BRUNCH

Children Policy • Up to 6 years old - free of charge • 7 - 12 years old - 50% discount

BD

15

Price per person inclusive of Lavish Buffet

Sweets

Ramadan Juices

Live Cooking

Live Events

++

Raffle Draw

from 12:30PM to 4:00PM

17 845 000

Official Airline Sponsor

www.alareenpalace.com alareenpalacandspa

al areen palace and spa

alareenpalace

bystander

Gala Dinner A gala dinner was held on

Christine, HE Francois Barry Delongchamps, Carla & Rodolphe

Louise & Noely

the occasion of the visit of HE Francois Barry Delongchamps, world deputy chairman of the Union of French Expatriates, at Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre.

Fatima, Marco Foyot & Shaikh Ahmed

Rosiane, Shaikh Ahmed & Marco

Damien, Karine & Laurent

Jean Philippe, Rodolphe, Christine, HE Francois Barry Delongchamps, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Jihan Alumran & Daad Moussa

Waleed Kanoo, Joseph Moussa & Abdul Hamid Hatim

Guy, Karen & HE Bernard Regnauld-Fabre

Artist Reception HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador, held a reception in honour of American artist, Ann Watcher, at his residence in Saar.

HE William Roebuck with Ann Watcher and guests

Hana, Samar & Batool

Christian & Nasser

54 June 2017

Nasser, Fariudoon & Ahmed

Irina, Julia & Moe

Elie & Joslyn

Yukiko & Daisuke

Laurie & Zuhair

Rahim, Jean & Sigie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

US Embassy Reception Anne Bennett, Counsellor for Political & Economic Affairs at the US Embassy, hosted a reception for diplomatic colleagues at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art.

Eneb, Joslyn, Anne & Wolfgang

Anne & Qays Zu’bi

Ayten & Koray

Moto, Nakijima, Carla, Tauhid & Wararoj

Catherine, Julie & Joslyn

Shiuya Sugeno, Dara & Christiaan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jean Philippe & William

Nelly

June 2017 55

MOTORING

A TURBOCHARGED TRIUMPH! CHARLIE HOLDING This sleek little number might just be the most exciting offering on the road today.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 60 AN ELECTRIC REVELATION 62 UPGRADE TO AN SUV THIS RAMADAN

718 Cayman S

L

et’s get one thing straight: a caiman is a type of crocodile whereas a 718 Cayman S is a beautiful sports car with much more bite!

I’ve been fortunate enough to drive many different Porsche models over the years and this classy coupé might just be my new favourite. When I was young, my mum told me never to judge a book by its cover. Well, sorry mum, I couldn’t help it when I laid eyes on this little beauty!

The model I drove had a funky blue paint job that absolutely guaranteed heads turned as I drove by – not that this car needs any help in that department.

The concept behind the 718 Cayman S is simple – it’s a sports car that you can drive every day. It blends elements of the legendary 718 with state-of-the-art modern know-how to create a vehicle that offers the best of both.

At its heart is a turbocharged flat-four 350bhp engine paired with the quintessential Porsche PDK gearbox. Compared with the previous model, the result is a decidedly more striking design, an even sportier chassis set-up and a whole host of performance, comfort and assistance systems.

And, there is still more than enough power www.bahrainthismonth.com

despite a marked reduction in fuel consumption.

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – turbo lag. Some people are totally convinced that a turbocharged engine will fall short when it comes to power and response. A few years back, I may even have agreed, but as Bob Dylan said: “The times they are a’ changin’.”

The superstars at Stuttgart have worked tirelessly to create an engine that delivers what you want, when you want it, all the time.

When it comes to the exterior, this is instantly recognisable as a Porsche. Low, sleek and wide dimensions blend seamlessly with classy contours and sporty edges to create an unmistakable model that screams sophistication and style.

The tail lights are slim line, their inner workings fashioned three-dimensionally. Four LED brake spotlights are incorporated into each of the horizontal rear driving lights. Between the two tail lights, an accent trim makes the rear end look even wider.

Inside is equally as impressive. The ascending centre console shortens the reach between the steering wheel and the gear stick, while the clear arrangement of the infotainment system makes everything easy to access.

Blending form and function is no small feat but that’s exactly what Porsche has done with the 718 Cayman S. The driving modes are accessible via a small knob on the steering wheel, which means you never need to take your hands off to switch between them.

The different modes change the way the car handles dramatically, so you can fine-tune your ride to suit your preference. Cornering in this model is an absolute doddle; it sticks to the road like white on rice, which allows for confident handling and smooth driving.

The Sport Response button allows you to achieve maximum acceleration from standstill.

Fear not, it’s not nitrous, but it does give you that extra oomph when you need it – an ideal feature for overtaking or if you find a nice open lane and want to test the acceleration.

The only complaint I have is that there are hardly any suitable stretches of highway to really open up the throttle and let this baby loose. Nonetheless, I had a lot of fun putting her through her paces whenever traffic (and speed limits) would allow.

Call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911 to book a test drive or for more information.

June 2017 57

motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS

Lots to Like about New Coupé This stunning new model was launched in hi-tech style on social media.

Powered by intelligence and driven by excellence, the new MercedesBenz E-Class coupé showcased its exceptional design and performance credentials at its first-ever live online launch on the official Facebook and Instagram pages of Al Haddad Motors, the Kingdom’s MercedesBenz dealer.

Joined by customers, socialites and members of the media, the online launch highlighted the intriguing design evolution of the E-Class coupé – from the traditional models to the three new pillars of space, design, and innovation.

As a new design icon by Mercedes-Benz, the E-Class coupé pushes the boundaries of intelligence and performance to make a statement of unrivalled excellence, its makers say. Every aspect and element of the vehicle is a testament to the model’s contemporary aesthetics and the brand’s mantra, ‘The Best or Nothing’.

Christopher Dean, showroom manager of Al Haddad Motors Bahrain, says: “The new E-Class coupé’s design and capabilities demonstrate its incredible intelligence – it is a car desired by those who seek the future today. While its technological and innovative credentials are well known, the model transcends the boundaries of automotive innovation to meet the needs of modern, active lifestyles.”

The new model sets the bar a notch higher as it combines the beauty and classic virtues of a grand tourer with state-of-the-art technology. It easily

The new E-Class Coupé

outstrips its predecessor in length, width and height, and is significantly more intelligent. The elegantly fashioned interior is stylistically in tune with the E-Class philosophy of fusing luxury and excitement.

There is a choice of three petrol engines with a range of outputs –135bhp, 184bhp and 333bhp.

Stay tuned on the company’s social media network for latest news and updates on Mercedes-Benz. Visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Mercedes-Benz-Bahrain or AlHaddadMotors on Instagram.

The E-Class coupé is available for test drives.

Call 17 785-454 or visit the showroom in Tubli.

Maki at Saudi Embassy Maki Restaurant partnered with the Saudi Embassy in the form of catering for its exclusive “majlis” event.

Top officials and guests at the majlis

Amer Zeitoun & HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulmalik Al-Shaikh

Khoga Raj & Dr Mohammed Abu Hussain Marzooq

58 June 2017

Samir

HE Kadri Al Sayeh, HE Abdul Ridha Abdulla Khoury & HE Dr Dhafer Alumran

HE Taha Abdul Qader & Abdulla Baqer

HE Mohammed bin Youssef

Mazin Alumran & HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulmalik Al-Shaikh

Adel

Shaikh Abdulla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

motoring

EURO MOTORS

An Electric Revelation This German automotive juggernaut is stepping up its efforts to go green with a milestone expansion of its electro-mobility capabilities.

60 June 2017

The BMW Group will be producing the fully electric BMW iNext at its Dingolfing plant in 2021.

Oliver Zipse, a member of the company’s board of management, says: “This decision will further strengthen our German production locations, which, with their innovation capabilities, play a leading role all across our production network. In the area of electro-mobility, in particular, our aim is to ensure end-to-end systems expertise within the company.”

The group already produces nine electric models, including eight plug-in hybrids. The electric BMW i3, which is manufactured at the company’s plant in Leipzig, will be joined by the first fully electric MINI in 2019, a fully electric BMW X3 in 2020 and the BMW iNEXT from 2021.

Oliver adds: “Going forward, the BMW production system will create structures that enable our facilities to build models with a combustion engine, plug-in hybrid or fully electric drive train at the same time. This will give us unique flexibility and put us in an optimal position on the cost side.”

Dingolfing has produced high-voltage batteries for BMW i models since 2013. In recent years, new production lines for high-voltage batteries and electric engines for BMW Group plug-in hybrids have also been installed. The facility also builds the plug-in hybrid versions of the 5 and 7 series.

Dr Andreas Wendt, head of the Dingolfing plant, says: “We have a lot of experience and expertise in ramping up complex products – making it the ideal location for production of the BMW iNEXT. With its pure-electric drive train, larger dimensions and new technologies, such as autonomous driving and digital connectivity, the new model will be a real innovation driver. We are proud to have the opportunity to build this car here in Dingolfing.”

The BMW Group has invested more than 100 million euros in electro-mobility at the Dingolfing site to date, making the plant more competitive for the future and securing jobs. Several hundred employees already work in areas related to e-mobility. Further jobs will be created over the medium term as production ramps up.

The BMW Group is the world’s third-largest manufacturer of electric vehicles and delivered over 62,000 of them to customers last year. In the first quarter of 2017, the company delivered almost 20,000 electrified models to customers around the world. The aim is to sell a total of 100,000 electrified vehicles worldwide this year.

By 2025, electrified vehicles are estimated to account for between 15 and 25 per cent of sales. With its high level of flexibility, the production system can respond quickly to changing market demands and will be able to integrate different drive forms directly into ongoing production as required.

Ilka Horstmeier, head of production engines and electrified powertrains, says: “Flexibility is a key success factor in production of electric drive components. Our adaptive production system is responsive and innovative. If needed, we can double our manufacturing volumes in the space of 12 months and respond quickly to growing customer demand.

“Thanks to our standardised modular system for so-called eDrive components, we are also capable of producing electric engines and high-voltage batteries with different sizes, performance and structural shape. We can increase the percentage of electric drive trains in line with demand in individual sales regions.”

Euro Motors is the Kingdom’s BMW dealer.

Call 17 750-750. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Launch Party

Bahrain Family Leisure Company BSC officially launched the new name of Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj and hosted the pre-launch party of Bennigan’s Restaurant Amwaj, sponsored by Gulf Brands International.

Suresh & Garfield

Gary, Ruby & Richard

Claire & Charlotte

Jack, Cathy & Anne

Amal & Marwa

Deirdra, Alex & Ryan

Sunny, Ebrahim & Jagath

Dave, Ruth, Debbie & Janet

James & Debbie

Irene & Carol

Dinner Party

The Gulf Hotel held a dinner and drinks event by chef Vineet at the Oak Lounge.

Tom, Frederika, Rodney & Michelle

Shila & Steve

Deen, chef Vineet & Santhosh

Pauline & Kon Hassan, Marwa & Hani

Gagan & Sarah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Olga, Shila, Caroline & Gillian

Janet, Judy & Pauline

John & Judy

Jules & Ron

June 2017 61

motoring JAC MOTORS

Upgrade to an SUV this Ramadan

JAC S3

This vehicle is an ideal choice for drivers that want an easy, convenient and stylish ride.

62 June 2017

Bahrain Commercial Services, the Kingdom’s JAC Motors dealer, has launched a new model in its passenger SUV segment.

The S3 is JAC’s newest second-generation passenger car and it is quickly becoming a firm favourite with young, urban drivers. It is loaded with features, including: a sunroof, alloy wheels, a seveninch display screen, reverse cameras, leather seats with contrast trim, steering mounted cruise control, Bluetooth, and volume controls. It is equipped with PM2.5 dust filtration systems and the in-car air meets volatile organic compounds standards.

PM2.5 refers to atmospheric particulate matter that have a diameter less than 2.5 micrometres, which is about three per cent the diameter of a human hair.

Particles in this category are so small that they can only be detected with an electron microscope.

The S3 has a rich look thanks to generous amounts of chrome on the front, rear, and along the side trim across the windows. The front end has a bottle-mouth design and blended electroplating decoration.

The LED daytime running headlights are tastefully designed and help with visibility at night too.

As for the interior, the S3 is very stylish thanks to a black and chrome colour scheme. The centre console is easy to control and its silver decoration strip enhances the overall look of the vehicle. The steering wheel is wrapped with leather and is equipped with multi-function buttons to adjust multimedia and cruise control systems.

JAC S3 is equipped with a high-performance 1.6-litre CVT engine, which offers ample power and improves fuel economy while reducing the carbon output. It boasts 118bhp and 146Nm of torque and, impressively, only uses 5.9-litres per 100km.

The vehicle is equipped with a number of features to improve performance and keep occupants safe. Some of the highlights include electronic stability control system, electronic power advanced steering, hill-start assist control, six airbags, pre-tightening seatbelts, automatic tyre pressure monitoring, ABS brakes, and a cruise control system.

This Ramadan, JAC S3 is available for BD4,995, including a five-year or 100,000km warranty and three years or 100,000kms service package, insurance, registration, rust proofing, window tinting, roadside assistance and a buy back guarantee.

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

Call 17 270-270. www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

Dealership Scoops Award

Euro Motors, the dealer of Rolls-Royce in Bahrain, was named ‘Provenance Dealer of the Year’ at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Global Dealer Awards for 2016.

The company was presented with a specially commissioned award, featuring a contemporary interpretation of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy, which was conceived by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design Team at the home of the brand in Goodwood, UK. Provenance is the marque’s official pre-owned certified programme, which merges both Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ uncompromising standards with its drive for excellence.

All Provenance cars must have been maintained in strict adherence to the marque’s servicing requirements and are only sold through the international network of authorised Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealers, including Euro Motors. The programme not only delivers total reassurance but – combined with a minimum two-year servicing and warranty cover – is also a sound investment for the future.

Paul Yates, general manager, Euro Motors, says: “Provenance underpins our confidence in the quality of Goodwood-manufactured, pre-owned Rolls-Royces. As Sir Henry Royce famously said ‘the quality remains when the price is long forgotten’. It seals the next chapter of the story with peace of mind and allows the Rolls-Royce journey to continue.”

Bigger and Better Hyundai has unveiled the Middle East version of its new Azera sedan, which comes with a larger, more powerful engine.

The sixth generation model is longer, wider, and taller than ever before and offers even higher levels of comfort and equipment. On global versions, its top-line engine will be a 3.0-litre V6 delivering a maximum 261bhp. For Middle East buyers, however, the Azera will come with 3.5-litre as standard, matched to an eightspeed automatic transmission.

“The Azera has been very successful for us in the Middle East, and global headquarters in Korea has recognised the particularly high importance of the model in the region,” says Mike Song, Hyundai’s head of operations for Africa and the Middle East.

“When we look at buyers in this segment, we see clear demand for extra power in the Middle East when compared with other markets internationally. Hyundai has taken this feedback very seriously, and our engineers have provided a unique specification that will give the Azera even more appeal to the region’s customers.”

The new model includes a selection of advanced safety features that set best-in-class levels of occupant protection. Passive safety elements include a high-rigidity body, nine airbags protecting both front and rear occupants, and rear impact reduction system for the front seats.

It is also equipped with Hyundai’s ‘SmartSense’ system, a collection of high-tech active safety features to help the driver avoid a collision.

Setting the Pace To coincide with the premiere of the new BMW 5 Series range, BMW M Division is bringing out a sporty BMW M Performance version of the world’s most successful business sedan.

For the time being at least, the new BMW M550i xDrive will assume the status of rangetopper in the new BMW 5 Series line-up.

Boasting a mighty M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine, BMW xDrive intelligent allwheel drive with rear-wheel bias and a bespoke M Performance chassis set-up, the new BMW M550i xDrive can be classed as both a four-door sports car and dynamic business sedan.

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With its abundant torque reserves and highrevving characteristics, the V8 engine delivers a blend of performance, precise driving dynamics and everyday usability. This all helps the new BMW M550i xDrive to set the pace in its segment and turn each and every drive into an exhilarating experience, its makers say.

Its exterior expresses the sedan’s dynamic performance capabilities, while also underlining its status as the flagship model in the new BMW 5 Series range. The M aerodynamic package, including a rear spoiler with Gurney flap on the boot lid, accentuates the sporty, dynamic lines.

The latest generation of the BMW 5 Series enables close-knit connectivity between the driver, vehicle, and the outside world thanks to BMW Connected. This new system links up devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, computers and tablets, as well as the vehicle’s navigation system, via the BMW servers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Models Launched Ebrahim K. Kanoo launched the new Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h models during a special event at the Sitra showroom.

The new Lexus LC is a flagship production coupe that echoes the spirit of the hand-built Lexus LFA supercar and delivers the visual impact of the Lexus LF-LC concept.

Koji Sato, chief engineer of the Lexus LC, says: “While maximising the fundamental taste of the LF-LC, we applied completely different specifications to create a design that goes beyond the concept – a design that will captivate you as soon as you see it. In my view, pursuing beautiful design and elaborating superior performance are two very similar aspects. Beauty is the identity of Lexus’ design.

Every feature of the LC is the result of an integrated approach to design and engineering.”

The LC 500 is powered by a high-performance V8 engine that can sprint from zero to 100km in less than 4.7 seconds. The Lexus LC debuts the first 10-speed automatic transmission for a luxury automobile. Smaller and lighter than some eight-speed units, this

new transmission executes shifts at speeds rivalling dual-clutch transmissions.

Top-Award Honour

The 2017 Nissan Altima has been crowned ‘Best Mid-Size Sedan’ at this year’s Middle East Car of the Year Awards (MECOTY). The Altima faced stiff competition but a jury of senior automotive editors from across the region decided that it was the outstanding choice for the award.

“The 2017 Nissan Altima embodies what a modern, practical and reliable car should be while also being comfortable, well designed and having the right balance of power and control to truly deliver innovation that excites,” says Fadi Ghosn, chief marketing officer at Nissan Middle East. “This year’s

‘Best Mid-Size Sedan’ winner offers a fantastic blend of styling comfort and performance which regional customers can experience for themselves at Nissan showrooms across the region.”

The 2017 Altima impressed the judges on a number of fronts, including styling which sees the car adopting Nissan’s latest design language.

Whether it’s the 182bhp 2.5-litre fourcylinder engine, or its 3.5-litre, 270bhp V6 sibling, there’s plenty of performance on tap and with Active Under Steer Control and a rear multi-link suspension, cornering with confidence comes as standard.

The MECOTY awards are unique in the region in that they bring together 15 motoring writers from 10 different countries who combine their knowledge and experience to make informed decisions designed to assist the car-buying public in their choices. The addition of public voting means these awards – now in their fourth year – have unrivalled credibility in the eyes of the region’s automotive industry.

On Track for Success A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) and Wheels of Arabia (WOA) to establish a Ducati Experience Centre at the BIC premises in Sakhir. www.bahrainthismonth.com

It will be a unique facility that aids in the training of riders, and focuses on the development of a younger generation that can participate in a safe environment. The agreement was signed between BIC chief

executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa and WOA director Abdularahman Almoayyed. The Ducati Experience Centre is scheduled to hold track days from September later this year to March of next year.

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dealsonwheels

Shifting Gear

In the spirit of the Holy Month, the Kingdom’s leading automotive companies are offering a range of special offers on popular models.

Al Haddad Motors The Kingdom’s Mercedes-Benz dealer is kicking off Ramadan in style with a number of special offers and valuable gifts upon purchase of a vehicle. The showroom, located in Tubli, is packed with the latest models, including the stunning new E-Class Coupé.

Whether you’re looking for a racy roadster or a spacious SUV, this dealership has all your needs covered.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo – Lexus Bahrain’s Lexus distributor announced the launch of its annual Ramadan service campaign, which offers great discounts on servicing for all Lexus models. The promotion runs until June 24 and gives Lexus owners a 25 per cent discount on labour and parts charges, and 10 per cent off on their next service visit. They can also take advantage of a discount up to 25 per cent on LLumar and Ziebart car care services, a 25 per cent discount on Michelin tyres and special prices on Kanoo Smart Repair Services. Lexus Service Centres in Arad and Toyota Plaza Tubli are open during Ramadan from Saturday to Thursday, 7am to 4pm and from 8pm to 11pm, with Riffa open Saturday to Friday from 7am to 4pm, and Manama open Saturday to Thursday from 7am to 4pm.

Motorcity With showrooms in Sitra, Sanad and Nuwaidrat, this dealership stocks a wide range of vehicles from a plethora of commercial and passenger brands.

Whether you’re in the market for Volvo, Subaru, Citroen, SsangYong, Chery or BAIC, Motorcity has you covered. Commercial brands include Isuzu, Hino, CMC, Kinglong, Hyundai, MSB, Marshell, Comet, Tata

66 June 2017

Daewoo, Maxus and ALL-KOR. This Ramadan, customers can choose deals up to BD1,000 in value whether they are service packages, free insurance and registration, free window tinting and rust proofing or an aftersales voucher.

Further, a number of new models will be launched in the coming months – the Volvo XC60, Subaru XV, Chery Tiggo 5 and BAIC A115.

Euro Motors – BMW/MINI The BMW Group importer in Bahrain will offer a range of exclusive promotions enabling new and existing customers worry-free service and warranty.

Customers looking to buy any BMW Model this Ramadan will be able to take advantage of five years’ service/100,000kms (whichever comes first) and five years’ warranty/200,000 kms (whichever comes first).

In addition to free registration, one-year comprehensive insurance, and window tinting, a price reduction comes with zero down payment on all BMW models during the Holy Month.

Customers looking for a MINI will enjoy fouryears/200,000kms of free warranty (whichever comes first) when purchasing any MINI model. In addition to free registration, one-year comprehensive insurance, and window tinting and a price reduction which comes with zero down payment.

Euro Motors – Jaguar Land Rover The island’s Jaguar Land Rover dealer is giving more this Ramadan by offering customers exclusive promotions upon their purchase of any Jaguar or Land Rover vehicle. Those wishing to own any of the available Jaguar or Land Rover vehicles will be able to do so with zero down payment. Further, the www.bahrainthismonth.com

company offers a free five-year service package, fiveyear warranty and five-year road assistance, along with complimentary insurance, registration and window tinting.

Meanwhile, the dealership will provide complimentary air-conditioning check-ups for all Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles that are more than two years old.

During the campaign, which runs until June 31, customers will also receive free visual health checks for their cars. In addition, those who benefit from this advantageous offer will also receive complimentary offroad experience tickets for two at the Land Rover Experience Bahrain.

Y.K Almoayyed & Sons – Infiniti Infiniti is running a special discounted offer on a number of exciting models this Ramadan, namely the Q50, Q30, Q70, Qx50, Qx60, Qx70, and Qx80. Further, the Qx50, Qx60, Qx70 and Qx80 are available with five-year extended warranty and discounted add-ons, rust proofing starting from BD49, window tinting starting from BD49, Nano protection (three-years warranty) from BD149 and twoyear/30,000km service contract from BD299.

Y.K Almoayyed & Sons – Nissan This reputed company has showrooms in Arad, Sitra and Exhibition Road. During the Holy Month customers can purchase the Nissan Sunny from BD3,995. Further, on selected models the company is offering free registration, three-year service package, five-years extended warranty, free insurance, 1.99 per cent interest rate on finance, three months’ grace period and trade-in offers.

Taurus from BD9,995, Expedition from BD11,750, and the F-150 from BD11,995. Alongside, the company is offering a five-year/100,000kms warranty.

A.A. Bin Hindi – Kia Potential buyers get more for their money this Ramadan.

Visit Kia (Khamis, Sitra and Arad showrooms) for special offers including a free 49-inch Samsung Smart TV when purchasing a new car or a curved TV on purchase of selected models. In addition, the company is offering 30,000km free service with every new car and 100 per cent cash buyback. Further, you get first year free comprehensive insurance through BNI, 24 professional car cleaning services from Enaya car care centres on selected models, sun control window tinting with UV protection, five years unlimited mileage warranty, in addition to availability of 10 stunning Kia models and 27 variants to suit every budget.

Porsche Centre Bahrain The Porsche Macan is available from BD19,200 with a low finance rate of 1.99 per cent.

Zayani Motors The distributor of Mitsubishi, Peugeot, MG and FUSO in Bahrain is giving back this Ramadan. Customers who purchase any of the numerous available models can enjoy great discounts, in addition to winning one of many special prizes. Further, all customers will be guaranteed an instant win upon purchase.

These prizes include: an Iphone 7, return tickets to the winning customer’s dream destination and BD1,000 cash.

Y.K Almoayyed & Sons – Renault This Ramadan Renault is providing customers with the opportunity to purchase the right fit for them at spectacular prices. Additional benefits (subject to terms and conditions) include five-years extended warranty, free service for three-years/60,000km and attractive interest rates starting from as low as 1.99 per cent.

Behbehani Brothers – Volkswagen Centre Bahrain To celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan, Volkswagen Bahrain is offering attractive prices across the model range. The Jetta starts from BD6,699, the Passat starts from BD7,699, and the Tiguan starts from BD9,399.

Customers will receive a six-year/unlimited mileage extended warranty, three years’ free service up to 45,000km, three years’ roadside assistance and a complimentary fuel voucher.

Furthermore, customers can also benefit from a very low finance interest rate of 1.99 per cent, and on-the-spot trade-in evaluation for those who would like to trade in their current car for a brand new one.

Almoayyed Motors – Ford There are a number of special offers on several popular Ford models this Ramadan. The Edge starts from BD9,495, Mustang from BD17,195, Explorer from BD10,995, Figo from BD4,100, Focus from BD5,100, Fusion from BD6,995, www.bahrainthismonth.com

Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain (KFH-Bahrain) has launched an auto finance campaign, which runs until June 30, 2017.

It will give clients who obtained an auto finance deal from the KFH-Bahrain Automall in Sitra, the opportunity to win instant prizes ranging from Ttablets, LED TV screens, wireless sound bars speakers, iPhone 7, Seef Mall shopping vouchers and cash prizes up to BD200.

This promotion is available to all customers who obtained their dream car from KFH Automall through the Sharia’a compliant finance scheme, who will get the chance to choose an instant prize card.

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bystander

New Lounge Opening

Downtown Rotana, as well as the BMMI Group, held the opening of Alto, an Arabian inspired lounge and restaurant, at its premises.

Shawki Fakhroo, Redha & George

Martina, Daniela & Michela

Donna & Nadia

Daniele, Giovanni & Raoul

Hassan, Ahmed & Mai

Pallavi & Prakash

Marek Sheridan & George

Hamra & Katiya

Chague

Sondarjee

Hassan & Nhatalie

Hairi, Gordon & Eilleen

Earnst, Dima & Jaffar

Patrice, Rebecca & Sarah

Rotana celebrated the first 1st Anniversary Party Downtown anniversary of Teatro Downtown restaurant.

Fahad, Rola, Hanan, Khalid & Yousif

Abrar

Nujood

Kristina

Greek Speaking Society of Bahrain held its general assembly meeting at General Assembly Meeting The The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa. Kyriakos, Katerina, Iro, Kostis, Maria & Irene

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Yiannis, Iro & Yiannis

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

ZeRound Smartwatch This watch is jam-packed with functionality and a cool, elegant design to boot. Seamlessly working with all the different aspects of your life, the ZeRound combines call functionality, SMS, email and social media notifications, music streaming, full activity tracker and sleep tracker, all within a colour circular touchscreen design.

Available at www.red5.co.uk

Hexagon Levitate 2.0 The Hexagon Levitate 2.0 speaker levitates above its base as if by magic while it blasts out your tunes. It has touch-sensitive buttons and a black matte finish, while also being magnetic if you want to stick it to a metallic surface. The speaker is charged wirelessly as long as it’s floating above the base.

Available at www.red5.co.uk

Laser Keyboard

This keyboard is as ultra-portable as it is pioneering. Simply connect your smartphone, tablet or computer via Bluetooth or USB connection, switch on and place on a dark, flat surface. This innovative and compact design features a fully integrated English QWERTY keyboard layout with over 400 characters. The keyboard emits a glowing red laser and makes small sounds as you type, making the transition from buttons to surface easy.

Available at www.amazon.co.uk

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HP Sprout G2 3D-scanning PC The Sprout G2, with its integrated 3D and 2D scanners, is perfect for product designers, CGI creators and other folks who can benefit from incorporating 3D models into their workflow. It also has a stylusenabled touch mat that acts as a second screen.

Available at www.hp.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

8Bitdo DPad USB Hub

PowerVision PowerRay underwater drone This underwater drone can submerge up to 98 feet (30 metres) and records 4K video streamed to your phone, which you use to navigate.

With its add-on Fishfinder sonar it can detect fish up to 131 feet (40 metres) away and lures them with a blue light. It also features VR goggles that allow you to robot around by tilting your head.

Available at www.powervision.me

It’s not hard to stay powered up and connected with this USB hub that gets back to that most basic of gaming controls: the directional pad.

Featuring three USB 2.0 inputs and a transfer rate of 480Mbps, the directional arrows even light up when a device is connected so you can see that the power is flowing.

Available at www.thinkgeek.com

LeEco smart bikes Integrating a 4-inch Android touchscreen into a bicycle for navigation, music playback and a walkie-talkie might not seem the safest idea, but the growing thirst for technology while on the move has led LeEco to develop the first smart bike.

Available at www.leeco.com

Coolado LoungeBag Go from zero to comfortable in seconds with the Coolado Self-Inflating LoungeBag. This lightweight lounger is perfect for chilling out at the beach or relaxing at festivals. Unlike other inflatables, it has a built-in pump powered by a USB rechargeable battery. In addition, the LoungeBag inflates or deflates itself in under two minutes. Made from durable nylon-TPU, the waterproof outer skin is effective on all surfaces.

Available at www.thegadgetflow.com

Sleep Number 360 smart bed Not everyone has pets to lie on their feet and keep them toasty. So Sleep Number made a bed that knows when you’ve got cold feet and turns heat on at the bottom of the bed. In theory, the mattress changes its Sleep Number settings to compensate for changes in position, and, while it can’t stop someone snoring, if it senses you are, it raises your head to reduce your volume.

Available at www.sleepnumber.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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music

Tiny Vipers – Laughter What’s the story?

Laughter is a comeback for Tiny Vipers’ Jesy Fortino as it marks her first major solo release since 2009’s Life on Earth, but it bears few familiar traits. In the time since Life on Earth, Fortino has slowly shifted her interests. She studied at the University of Washington to become a civil engineer, leaving her little time to focus on music.

Worth a listen?

Its six sprawling compositions seem to be built entirely of atmosphere. Only one piece prominently features vocals, and few approach anything that could reasonably be considered a melody. Fortino’s music has always unfolded with a feeling of spontaneity; her performances felt in-the-moment, her songs like living, growing things. This album reinforces it.

In some ways, the album is a natural progression from its predecessor. While Life on Earth was folk music in theory, featuring little more than Fortino’s acoustic guitar and vocals, its most memorable moments were more elusive: the way her voice breaks during the coda of Dreamer, or the bluesy pauses between guitar licks in the 10-minute title track. On Laughter, Fortino strips back her music even further, and it feels like a breakthrough. Her voice, once the core of her work, conveying loss and desperation with the subtlest inflections, is buried under a warped, thunderous synthesizer.

Verdict: A melodic, dark journey.

Shorts

Grateful Dead - Cornell 5/8/77

Bill MacKay - Esker

Diana Krall – Turn Up the Quiet

Disagreements and debates are common among Grateful Dead fans but there is a surprising consensus that the show the group gave at Barton Hall at Cornell University on May 8, 1977, is one of the band’s greatest. Sourced from the original soundboard recordings, this 40th anniversary celebration brings the colourful and vivid sound – an excellent complement to a prime performance. What makes this such an exceptional experience isn’t that it’s the Grateful Dead at their most experimental, but at their warmest. From the moment the band launches into ‘New Minglewood Blues’, it’s evident they’re in a good mood, and they run through a set that draws heavily on party songs and cowboy tunes while finding space for delicate moments.

Esker is Chicago-based composer and guitarist Bill MacKay’s third album, and his unmistakable guitar playing is appended by piano, percussion and the sound of the studio itself to create a new aesthetic. MacKay uses a different playing style in each of these tunes; all are intensely personal, filled with emotion. While immediately enjoyable, its short playing time, at just 33 minutes, initially makes it somewhat of a blur. Repeated listening allows for individual tunes to distinguish themselves.

Diana Krall spent the better part of the 2010s exploring byways of American song but 2017’s Turn Up the Quiet finds the pianistsinger returning to well-known standards from the Great American Songbook. The album has a trio of line-ups, alternating between a trio, quartet and quintet. It isn’t divided into triads but rather gently shifts between these bands, a move that’s sometimes imperceptible because the focus is firmly on Krall, the pianist. Her voice often operates at a hushed whisper, a decision that suits this collection of romantic, dreamy material; it also underscores the importance of the record’s title.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games Review Game: Persona 5 Rating:

What is it?

Persona 5 is a role-playing video game developed

by Atlus, and takes place in Tokyo. The story follows a silent protagonist after his transfer to the fictional Shujin Academy where, falsely accused, he has been put on probation for an assault. During the course of a school year, he and other students awaken to their Persona powers, become masked vigilantes dubbed the ‘Phantom Thieves of Hearts’, and explore the supernatural Palace realm to steal ill intent from the hearts of adults.

Gameplay:

Verdict:

A captivating, beautiful story.

As with previous titles in the series, the party battles with supernatural enemies using manifestations of their psyches called Personas. The game incorporates role-playing elements and dungeon exploration alongside social simulation scenarios.

Both facets of gameplay are equally strong. The battles are thrilling and a fine balance between fast-paced action and slower, strategyorientated duelling, depending on the situation. The general school life perfectly encapsulates the life of a teenager finding his place in the world, from attending dull chemistry classes to budding romances.

You’ll want to replay the game time and time again to pursue different paths and forge relationships with different characters.

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series

Guardians of the Galaxy plays similar to other Telltale adventure games, in which the player talks to other characters, explores environments and interacts with objects within them and, at times, completes action sequences made up of quick-time events. Players make choices, such as dialogue selection, that create determinants within the story that affect later actions within the episode and in future episodes. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Prey

Graphics:

Persona 5’s sense of scope is staggering compared to the dungeons in previous games, with palaces easily double or triple the size of those games’ areas. Enemy designs are varied and colourful, ranging from humanoids that could almost pass as party members to extravagant, complicated monsters and seeing HD versions of enemies like Jack Frost is a treat for those who have been following the franchise for 20 years. Personas themselves also feature a bit of voice acting, which adds a nice extra layer of polish to negotiation during battles.

Reinventing the franchise for a new generation of consoles, Prey is a first-person sci-fi action game with an added psychological twist. You are Morgan Yu, the subject of morally dubious experiments designed to improve the human race. You awaken aboard the Talos 1 in the year 2032 and must uncover the secrets hiding in the depths of the space station while being hunted by the mysterious alien force that has taken over. You’ll have to rely on the tools you find on the station – along with your wits, weapons and mind-bending abilities – to combat the growing threat and, hopefully, survive.

Outlast II

The sequel to the acclaimed survival horror game original, Outlast II is a twisted new journey into the depths of the human mind and its dark secrets. It features a journalist named Blake Langermann, along with his wife Lynn, roaming the Arizona desert to explore the murder of a pregnant woman only known as Jane Doe. Blake and Lynn get separated in a helicopter crash, and Blake has to find his wife while travelling through a village inhabited by a sect that believes the end of days are upon them.

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websites

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Michael Rosen’s book We’re Going On a Bear Hunt was brought to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s adaptation at the Cultural Hall.

VERDICT: A useful tool for improving your reading.

Performers on stage

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

Suhana, Gaby & Ashley

Aleena & Luawa

Spreeder is the web’s leading destination for speed reading. It helps you read faster and comprehend more of the text you’re reading, so you can save time and be more productive in life.

The Good

It’s a simple, but effective tool. It basically lets you upload text and practise reading at speeds way higher than you imagine you could possibly read at.

It’s amazing how quickly you find yourself honing your speed reading skills, and even using the website for an hour can make a big difference. When you translate that to your morning newspaper or even novels, you’ll find yourself getting a lot more reading done in less time.

Terry, Abbie & Jade

Alda & Yousif

The Bad

You can only read text that you copy and paste into the tool, or some preselected passages. This unfortunately means you can’t read your favourite books on it. Also, there aren’t many options for the visually impaired, such as changing the font size or the colour/boldness.

www.dog-vision.com Ali, Dalal, Amina, Mouaz, Saleem, Jivitha & Isa

Maya, Yasmin & Fatima

Sofia, Akshaya & Jey

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Ever wondered what a dog pictures when it sees something? It definitely wouldn’t be able to visualise the amazing rainbow that you marvel at.

This website lets you upload an image and it renders the image to reflect what a dog would see.

www.googlefeud.com

This Family Fortunes-style game is a brilliant new website that will kill hours of time with your friends or in the office. You have to complete questions across four different categories to predict the top 10 Google autocomplete suggestions. The more you guess correctly, the higher you score.

Xitong, Jana & Zakaria

Yashraj & Abdul

www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

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

What is it?

Windy combines natural wind recordings with stunning artwork to help you sleep, relax, study or meditate. It utilises stereoscopic 3D audio that’s optimised for headphones, so you can drift off into your own little world. The six natural wind recordings can be mixed with rain, river sounds, birds and crickets. There’s also a whimsical story embedded within the app, allowing you to follow Windy on her journey to breathtaking locations.

The Good:

The best part about the app is how you can customise it to your mood. If you really want full relaxation, you can put soft whistling mode on to help you drift off.

However, if you want something to distract you from other sounds, you can have crashing waterfalls and hearty birdsong.

The Bad:

App: Windy Rating: Verdict: A fantastic app to soothe the mind.

The story aspect is severely underutilised and seems like a tacked on afterthought to differentiate the app from its peers. This is unnecessary as the app does that alone with its features and performance, and the storyline just leaves a feeling of the app being unfinished.

App: Hear My Baby

App: One Tomato

This app allows you to record and share your baby’s heartbeat. It doesn’t require any additional accessories for your phone; simply follow the directions by placing your iPhone’s microphone on your stomach and watch as the audio feed comes to life. The app’s unique sound isolation algorithm allows it to hear a baby’s heartbeat from 27 weeks onwards.

One Tomato follows the Pomodoro Technique, a tried and true method that helps you define clear goals and get them done faster by setting aside blocks of time. Access the tag drawer on the right side of the screen with a tap and you’re able to choose from 14 prebuilt tags or create your own. Then choose your focus duration – the most common being 25 minutes – and get to work. When time is up, you’ll receive a short break. Repeat the process over and over until your tasks and your day are complete. The app includes a white noise option, 3D Touch support and stats that can be shared.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2017 75

movies

Norwegian Cruise Roadshow 2017

Farhat International Tours & Travels held its Norwegian Cruise Roadshow 2017 at Downtown Rotana.

Karen & Neomi

Aysha & Priyanka

Film: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Rating:

VERDICT: A hilarious, entertaining thrill -filled ride.

Directed by: James Gunn Starring: Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Zoe Saldana, Bradley Cooper

The Plot: Suhail, Mujib & Valay

Lhen & Louise

Set to the backdrop of a number of pop classics from the Awesome Mixtape Vol. 2, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the team’s adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favourite characters from the classic comics return to join the fray.

Worth Watching?

Neomi, Danish, Khalid & Karen

The first film came somewhat out of the blue with a bunch of heroes that were relatively unheard of (at least compared with their peers in the Marvel roster). Now with the element of surprise gone, the Guardians and director James Gunn has a tougher time of delivering. Thankfully, they do just that.

The film is even more hilarious than the first. What’s more, the action scenes are more thrilling and adrenaline-packed. Flashy neon visuals and a rocking soundtrack heighten the film’s appeal, and although it perhaps doesn’t feel quite as fresh as the original, this is still one of the best superhero offerings to date.

Alien Covenant

In 2104, bound for a remote planet on the far side of the galaxy, the crew of the colony ship Covenant, which includes Walter, an android similar to David, a survivor of the doomed Prometheus expedition, find what they believe to be an uncharted paradise. It soon reveals itself to be a dark and dangerous world inhabited by the original David and monstrous creatures that start to hunt them.

76 June 2017

Baywatch

Mitch Buchannon, the gung-ho leader of the elite Baywatch lifeguard squad, clashes with new recruit Matt Brody, a washed-up pro athlete brought in as the new face of the organisation. However, when a dead body is recovered from the ocean, the two must put aside their personal differences and work with their team to stop a criminal mastermind’s drug trafficking operation. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

GASTRONOMIC GALA PUJA TIWARI Enjoy delectable culinary offerings, enchanting live entertainment and an alluring atmosphere at this Arabic speciality restaurant.

S

erving rich, Arabic cuisine, Pashawat at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is known for its delectable Lebanese and Persian fare.

Enveloped in shades of deep blush and mauve with the fusion of contemporary and traditional elements, the eclectic interior grabs your attention as soon as you enter.

The brightly coloured, plush furniture and stained-glass lamps hanging from the ceiling will momentarily leave you in awe.

Yasser, the restaurant supervisor, escorted my dining partner and I to our table – a sofa seat facing the stage. Live entertainment was set to begin in an hour. Being nearly empty when we first arrived, the place was rapidly filling up with guests, paying testament to its popularity among the Arab diaspora.

A plate of vegetables was placed on our table to munch on while we waited for the first course. Within five minutes, an impressive range of beautifully presented cold meze dishes arrived. Assorted Arabic pickles, tabouleh, fattoush, stuffed vine leaves, hummus, moutabel, mouhamara, green beans with oil, burghul wheat, labneh, armaniyeh, Oriental salad with feta cheese and a tuna dip comprised the mouthwatering enticements.

78 June 2017

Yasser returned with two of the chefs from the kitchen who ardently explained the genesis of each recipe and the ingredients. My favourites were the labneh, fattoush salad and burghul.

The second course consisted of hot meze – kibbeh, spinach and cheese fatayer, potato rolls, chicken wings, makanek, fish tagine and falafel. With such generous portions and equally great variety, the meal was definitely designed for hearty eaters and bigger groups.

The meat in the kibbeh was tender and well seasoned, and the falafel was crispy and fresh.

It was difficult to choose a favourite because they were all top-notch eats.

The staff are attentive but not overbearing. A duo graced the stage and enthralled the crowd with their musical prowess, singing and playing instruments whilst interacting with diners.

Our main course consisted of two colossal platters of fish and meat. The first had Gulf shrimps and hammour fillet grilled over charcoal, served with coriander sauce and traditional entakli bread. The shrimp had a smoky taste, soft and creamy on the palate, and the fish was delectably tender.

The mixed grill platter was a meat lover’s dream, a combination of meat brochettes, shish tawook, kebabs, lamb chops and more served

ALSO THIS MONTH: 81 A SWEET ENDING 82 TABLE HOPPING

with bread. By this time, we were absolutely bursting at the seams. My dining companion and I were quite full but we couldn’t help but try a bit of everything before ordering a doggie bag for the copious leftovers.

Dessert consisted of freshly sliced seasonal fruits, mohalabia, ma’amoul dates and warbat, baklawa and basbousa. It gave me a sugar rush. What a sweet end!

Pashawat is the perfect spot to dine while gathering with your friends for good conversation. The service is one to be marvelled at and the sheer variety of dishes is enough to make even the pickiest eater happy.

The set menu is priced at BD17++ or BD19++ depending on your choices.

Pashawat serves a lavish four-course set menu without skinning your wallet, open from Monday to Friday. The restaurant will be closed for Ramadan but will open during Eid. During the Holy Month, the Layali Al Zallaq Tent invites you to try wonderful food and service. Perched by the sea, take in views of the glorious sunset as you begin with Iftar or the star-speckled ceiling at a Ghabga, both priced at BD19++ per person.

Call 17 636-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

We strengthen our commitment to you and your family, to be better every day. Here’s how:

Our fried food trans fats content reduced to 0.01%.

Our cooking oil is now a lighter sunflower and canola oil blend, with an 80% reduction in saturated fat content.

Our classic mayonnaise recipe now contains 50% less calories and (here’s the best part) the delicious taste you love is just the same.

Our fish in the classic favorite Filet-O-Fish™ is now sourced from well-managed fisheries that only use sustainable fishing practices.

Every day, a better day. Only at McDonald’s.

Bahrain held a “Take Me to St Tropez” beach party Beach Party Sofitel at its premises.

Art Show

Taline Temizian held an art exhibition at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art.

Salma, Saida & Mariam

Selen & Ali

Yasser, Taline & Sarah

Beeching

Trish, Surangi & Maria

Paula & Didar

Lunba, Reem & Mai

Murphy

Jenia & Waseem

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Yenlis, Michi, Eli & Faria

Faisal, Nouf, Noora & Ahmed

June 2017 79

bystander

Desert Island Disco The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held a Desert Island Disco party at its premises.

Teta Maria, Ali, Danni Veal & Ghizlane

Sanaa & Rick

Sumana, Jyoti & Neel

Sharon & Bruno

Suzy & Samia

Anthea, Tiffany, Louis, Sarah & Maite

Christian & Daniel

Naomi Tagg & Joshua Roberts

Boyko & Simona

Partygoers having a blast

Emad, Mo & Rick

Roula & Tania

Reem & Ramia

Raza & Fatima

Bjorn, Mahi & Rodell

Back to the 80s The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held a Back to the 80s party at Primevera.

Gio, Loredana, Maura & Jean-Paul Dantil

Joan & John

80 June 2017

Massimiliano & Fara

Maria & Gayle

Marilyne & Yuri

Hermes & Ghizlane

Loredana & Maura

Christian & Federico

Elena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining MAKI

A Sweet Ending Indulge your sweet tooth in a decadent delight sans the guilt at this famed Japanese restaurant.

In a bid to serve healthier fare, Maki has introduced two new stars on the menu – Tropical Fruits Platter and Berries Platter. They are both hearty options, yet unbelievably delicious. They also come at a time when Ramadan and summer are with us, and the need for some nutritious eats is at an all-year high.

“The idea came from the notion that many guests would like to have desserts which are not loaded with calories, yet tasty at the same time,” explains managing co-founder Amer Zeitoun. “Additionally, many guests have intolerances, which our new additions cater to.”

The Tropical Fruits Platter boasts a combination of strawberries, mango, kiwi, raisins, pineapples, avocado sauce, soy milk, and zero simple sugars or sweeteners. As for the other option, it comprises strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raisins, almonds, pistachios and avocado sauce. From antioxidants, to vitamins, minerals, fibre and resveratrol, which is believed to protect against heart disease and help digest fats, this is one super-healthy dose of goodness.

No stranger to promoting wholesome eating by any means, Maki has introduced many scrumptious dishes throughout the years, such as the Oliver Kale Salad, the Akagome (red rice) Salmon and the Okinawan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Maki, to name a few. The latter is an exquisite vegetarian delight, which contains black rice, avocado, purple potato, cherry tomatoes, walnuts, shishito peppers, shiso cress, yuzu flakes and extra virgin olive oil.

Call 17 522-733.

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tablehopping

BEACH FUN

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain has opened ‘The Beach Lounge’, purposely created for diners wishing to enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery of the resort. Open to the public, guests can enjoy a unique dining experience on the white sandy beach of the property. It is the perfect place for friends, couples and families to gather over great gastronomy. It is located between Kahlo Club and Thai Lounge and is open every week from Wednesday to Saturday from Eid. Call 17 586-868.

SPICE IT UP!

DOUBLE TAKE

Bahrain Cinema Company (Cineco) has expanded its investments in the food and beverage industry with the launch of two new outlets at Lulu Mall, Hidd – Chaat & Chai and Takatak. Chaat & Chai serves zesty Indian street food along with a selection of authentic South Indian breakfast dishes. Takatak offers a variety of authentic Indian cuisine including great vegetarian options. Both branches will be open as per mall timings.

Visit www.bahraincinema.com

SUSHI SPECIALS Fast-casual diner, Chez Sushi, has introduced new noodle dishes to its Iftar specials this year, available throughout the Holy Month from sunset until 1am. The restaurant will offer two delicious menu options for diners to break their fast with super fresh and great value dishes. The first option comprises of miso soup, grilled or fried chicken katsu bento box, date mochi and nai iced tea. The second has noodle soup with your choice of beef, chicken, salmon, prawn or vegetable tempura, date mochi and nai iced tea.

Call 80 078-744 or email info@chezsushi.com.

KING OF THE KITCHEN

Baker and Spice have debuted in Bahrain with a new venue located on the ground floor of Seef Mall.

Modern and minimalistic, the store characterises a simple and beautiful space where the food is the focal point. Well known classic and à la carte favourites will be offered along with signature dishes that are local, organic and homemade. The famed bakery will create much loved speciality artisan bread as well as delectable sweets and treats. There is also a menu that presents delicious rotisserie meats.

Visit www.bakerandspiceme.com 82 June 2017

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, has appointed Christian Knerr as its new executive chef.

Christian is a German national, who served as the executive chef of Harrods London’s culinary operations.

He also brings with him an array of international experience from Manila, Bali, Dubai, Hamburg, Switzerland and Austria, to name a few. He has been instrumental in the hotel’s culinary offerings and the Ramadan menu.

Call 17 58 000-000.

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

E Call 17 115-500.

When? All three days of Eid Event? Eid lunch Venue? Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Indulge in a special à la carte menu with a plethora of delectable seafood.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? Throughout Ramadan Event? Exquisite menu offerings Venue? Genwa Lounge, Gallery 21 Choose delicious fare from the à la carte menu from 9pm till 1am.

E Call 17 711-600.

When? Throughout Ramadan Event? Lunch and dinner Venue? Rosso, ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Sample traditional Italian cuisine from an à la carte menu. Lunch is from 12.30pm to 5.30pm, dinner is from 6pm to 11pm.

E Call 16 000-111.

When? Daily Event? Dinner buffet Venue? La Med, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain An Arabic buffet will be available nightly for BD22++ per person.

E Call 17 586-499.

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

E Call 17 533-533.

When? Throughout Ramadan Event? Iftar buffet Venue? Mayan, Pars International Hotel Choose from the finest Lebanese delicacies when breaking your fast at the renowned restaurant.

E Call 17 814-777.

When? Throughout Ramadan Event? Menu specials Venue? Chez Sushi Two new noodle dishes have been added to the menu especially for Iftar, available from sunset till 1am.

E Call 17 751-262. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sophie

Mo, Malak, Mika & Sana

Bahrain Yacht Club hosted the Beach Beach Ball The Ball 2017 at its premises.

Muna, Fatima, Ebrahim, Issa & Mahmood

Aroush, Ariz, Irfan & Sunbul

Hani, Sam, Hanan, Mishal & Mel

Orange Party

The Dutch Society celebrated King’s Day with an Orange Party at Coral Bay.

Nicolas, Paul & Wendy

Nasreen & Henny

Bijan & Pauline

Jad, Jameel & Meera

Ben, Shell & Kaan

Anne & Cera

HE Frans Potuyt & Jaap

Phil & Shalin

Filippo, Cristina, Jo & Pete

Anne & Rupert

Irina, Igor & Elena

Jennifer, Herbert & Daniel

84 June 2017

Jo & Cristina

Karin & Barbara

Ekaterina, Shem & Sarah

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan&eidhappenings

Festive Feasts Extravagant buffet spreads in a traditional ambiance are what make Ramadan a truly special month. Get to know the best venues to break your fast and where to celebrate all the thrilling festivities of Eid. FIVE-STAR HOTELS Al Areen Palace & Spa Discover Arabian splendour at the Al Qasr tent.

Iftar is priced at BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends, from sunset to 9pm.

Ghabga is priced at BD13.500++ on weekdays and BD15++ on weekends, running from 9.30pm-2am. A brunch will be hosted on the second day of Eid for BD15++ from 12.30pm-4pm.

Call 17 845-000.

ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Choices is offering the finest spread of traditional and modern dishes for Iftar, priced at BD19++ from sunset to 8.30pm, and Ghabga at BD21++ from 9.15pm to midnight. A brunch will be hosted on the second and third day of Eid from 12.30pm-4pm for BD34 per person.

Call 16 000-111.

Crowne Plaza Bahrain Celebrate the true spirit of giving this Ramadan at La Mosaique. For every Iftar diner a donation of 500 fils will be made to the Children and 86 June 2017

Mothers Welfare Society. Iftar and Ghabga packages for groups start at BD14.500 per person. Daily and weekly prizes are to be won through a raffle draw, including dinner vouchers and a trip to Dubai. The Eid lunch buffet at La Mosaique is BD15.750 per person.

Call 17 531-122.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Explore the gracious offerings at the Arabesque-chic-inspired Ramadan tent at Al Bahrain Ballroom. Iftar is served from sunset to 8pm, at BD26++ per person. Ghabga is from 9pm onwards, priced at BD28++ per person.

Call 17 115-000.

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Experience a unique rooftop event at Al Fanar with delicious traditional Arabic dishes from different Middle Eastern cuisines for BD16 per person. Ghabga is hosted at the Grand Ambassador Ballroom. Kids under six dine for free.

Call 17 531-666.

Golden Tulip Iftar will be served at Al Wasmeyyah restaurant from 6.30pm onwards, priced at BD11.500++ per person, and kids aged six to 12 eat at half price.

Children under six dine for free. Special rates for corporates and groups are available. Daily Ghabgas will be hosted at the Al Afandi Ramadan Tent and Gilgamesh Ballroom from 8pm-2am.

Call 17 535-000.

The Domain Hotel and Spa Figs and Olives has been transformed into a glorious indoor tent, which offers a sumptuous buffet featuring Arabic and international favourites. Iftar runs from sunset until 9pm, priced at BD12++ per person.

Call 16 000-000.

Downtown Rotana Gather with your family, friends and colleagues over an extravagant Iftar or Ghabga buffet at Al Maha Tent for BD13++. Enjoy a feast on all three days of Eid for the same price.

Call 13 111-999.

Gulf Hotel Bahrain The new Khaimat Al Khaleej Tent and Takht Jamsheed Persian restaurant will host Iftar for BD19++. Ghabga prices at the tent are BD17++ on weekdays and BD19++ on weekends.

Call 17 713-000.

Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain A scrumptious spread across Silks and the Gallery restaurants will guarantee happy palates.

Iftar is offered daily from sunset onwards and is inclusive of water and juices, priced at BD19.900 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ramada Hotel Bahrain French bistro-style restaurant, Le Jardin, will be offering a daily Iftar for BD8++ per person from sunset onwards.

Call 17 742-000.

per person. Tailor-made Ghabga menus start from BD12 for groups of 75 or more people.

Call 17 460-000.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Savour the experience of a traditional Arabic tent at the Awali Ballroom. Iftar is priced at BD16++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends, from sunset to 8.30pm. Al Safir restaurant hosts Ghabgas from 9pm till 2am priced at BD12++ per person.

Call 17 533-533.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Head to the Layali Al Zallaq Tent to try wonderful food paired with mesmerising views of the seaside. Begin with Iftar at sunset or enjoy Ghabga under a star-speckled ceiling, both priced at BD19++ per person.

Call 17 646-363.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Savour the beautiful lighting and unprecedented hospitality of the Viva Ramadan Al Khayma Tent while enjoying the return of the talented Lebanese celebrity, Margo Kassar, for an evening of blissful entertainment. Iftar is priced at BD27++ and Ghabga at BD29++.

Call 17 580-000.

FOUR-STAR HOTELS K Hotel Enjoy an Iftar buffet at Kolors from sunset to 8.30pm for BD12++ per person. Children aged seven to 12 years eat at half price and those aged six and below dine for free. A special lunch will take place on the second day of Eid, priced at BD12++ inclusive of soft drinks, and an additional BD7++ for selected beverages.

Call 17 360-000.

Ramada Hotel & Suites, Amwaj Islands Revive the traditions of the Holy Month at the hotel’s Ramadan tent. Iftar is BD11 net, and children from six to 11 eat for BD6. Special rates are available for big groups and corporate bookings.

Call 16 000-099.

Ramada Manama City Centre Guests can enjoy a bountiful Iftar buffet with traditional Arabic cuisine at Reem Al Bawadi restaurant for BD10 per person. Ghabga is available on an à la carte basis.

Call 17 104-000.

Swiss-Belhotel Seef The Swiss-Café restaurant will have a sumptuous Iftar buffet for BD12 per person.

Children aged six to 12 years get a 50 per cent discount, while those below six years eat for free. Private group Iftars and Ghabgas can be booked at the 27th floor of the hotel for BD12.

Call 66 310-000.

STANDALONE Bushido Restaurant and Lounge, Seef The venue will be converted into a trendy tent, designed for everyone to share an authentic experience, where there will be a mix of traditional dishes and live cooking stations.

Iftar starts from sunset and ends at 8.30pm, priced at BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends. Ghabga runs from 9.30pm-12.30am and costs BD13++ on weekdays and BD15++ on weekends.

Call 17 583-555.

Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne, Adliya This chic eatery is geared up to delight hungry diners all through the month with specially curated dishes for Ramadan from a delicious à la carte repertoire. The menu can be sampled daily from sunset onwards.

Call 17 336-373.

Gallery 21, Adliya Gallery 21 will host a special celebration of food and culture inspired by Ramadan’s spirit of giving and sharing, transforming the venue with stunning interiors underlining Arabic heritage.

Iftar is served daily from sunset onwards until 8.30pm, for BD14++ on weekdays and BD16++ weekends. Ghabga runs from 9pm-1am, priced at BD13++ on weekdays and BD15++ on weekends.

Call 17 711-600.

Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex A new Ramadan menu will be available, priced between BD5 and BD8. An à la carte menu is available for Ghabga. A special breakfast will be served during Eid until 1pm.

Call 17 004-588.

Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant The Adliya and Budaiya branches will thrill guests with Indian delicacies for Iftar, priced at an unbeatable BD5.900++ available from 6.30pm-9.30pm, daily.

Call 17 246-777 or 17 590-591.

Meisei Bahrain, Block 338 Relish a Ramadan promo menu by sharing ambrosial dim sum, Japanese pizza and maki with your family and friends for BD25++ per person.

Call 17 007-770.

Several establishments across the Kingdom host Ramadan and Eid feasts to suit budgets and palates of every kind. So, enjoy exploring the island for its many delights.

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef Oriental entertainment and a wide array of buffet dishes and traditional delicacies await you for Iftar at the Al Bawadi Tent on the rooftop, from sunset onwards. It is priced at BD12++ per person.

Call 17 584-400. www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2017 87

bystander

Tikdem & Rose

Roland, Fawaz & Loic

Birthday Party

Esky celebrated her birthday with friends.

Ben, Fanny, Esky & Ocean

Deniz, Pauline, Oliver & Wael

Mary Lou & Ben

Omar

Luc & Karine

Ted

Daniel, Jude & Fanny

Helena & Wyche

www.jfcbahrain.com

88 June 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan&eidhappenings

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

Reviving a Ramadan Tradition This luxury five-star hotel promises a night to remember as it refreshes its Ramadan tent with a lavish garden gazebo interior and a culinary journey like no other.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fully embrace the traditions of the Holy Month this season by sharing unique experiences with family and friends at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s VIVA Ramadan tent – Al Khayma. It boasts a fabulous interior and an exceptional culinary spread by the newly appointed executive chef, Christian Knerr, as well as visiting chefs from Egypt and The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul.

Guests can also enjoy the return of the talented Lebanese celebrity singer and actress, Margo Kassar, for an evening of blissful entertainment.

This year, enjoy an unmatched Ramadan experience starting with a newly tailored menu by chef Christian, who has recently joined from Harrods, London. It will offer a large buffet featuring international cuisines, including Eastern Mediterranean, Asian, Mexican and European, with live cooking stations of fresh breads, saj, crêpes and more. The guests’ dining pleasure will be underpinned by enchanting Turkish and Egyptian menus by four visiting chefs, who will be flown in to join the culinary team to handcraft an authentic experience that will entice all taste buds and preferences.

Evolving from last year, Al Khayma’s interior will showcase a rich and charming garden using landscape materials such as bricks, slate and stunning indoor flooring, while urns will add an inviting touch. With seating arrangements made up of iron tables, usually seen on patios or terraces, the décor will also be coupled with tall plant stands, tables topped with branches and blossoms, and beautiful floral printed throw pillows – all of which

create a wonderful garden-like atmosphere, bringing comfort and prestige under one roof.

Guests will be able to indulge their sweet tooth with the return of the famous chocolate room, featuring a theme around the Kingdom’s legendary ‘Tree of Life’. The pastry chefs will also be creating scrumptious chocolate confections including fondue, truffles and bonbons, with choc-art walls and plenty of edible artwork, as well as cocoa bean concoctions for everyone to taste. The Iftar buffet will also present the making of the Turkish ice cream, dondurma.

The Al Khayma tent has an indoor and outdoor smoking section offering a selection of traditional as well as special flavours of shisha.

Guests can also opt to enjoy additional comfort by selecting a private pergola for Iftar and Ghabga.

Offering a silverware service, this is a popular choice with discerning guests in search of refinement.

“Ramadan is a special time of the year for family, friends and loved ones to come together to create unforgettable memories, and we at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, are eager to craft the perfect setting for our guests to inspire Ramadan’s most meaningful moments year on year,” says general manager JeanPaul Dantil. “We are pleased to welcome our partner VIVA for the seventh year in joining us in welcoming our guests to an incredible Ramadan celebration.”

Call 17 586-499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant. reservations@ritzcarlton.com.

June 2017 89

ramadan&eidhappenings SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL

Ramadan Kareem!

Experience the taste of tradition during the Holy Month in the heart of the city at this five-star hotel, which opens its doors to one and all offering ever-popular feasts.

90 June 2017

Celebrate this auspicious month with your family and friends at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, where a medley of delicious treats are available for everyone to enjoy.

Iftar will be served at the Awali Ballroom, from sunset to 8.30pm. The venue is known to offer a complete Ramadan experience. It boasts traditional Arabic décor in a neutral colour palette, palatial arches engraved with fine mosaic, carved mahogany wood panelling and a twin tent roof with stunning wrought iron chandeliers, creating a distinct and sophisticated ambience.

Iftar buffet will comprise customary Arabic dishes; international menu options; traditional juices; a huge variety of cold meze and starters; a dates corner fit for the occasion; a crêpe station; and an array of exciting desserts – a favourite among guests.

Iftar buffet for adults is priced at BD16++ from Sunday to Wednesday and BD17++ from Thursday to Saturday. Children from four to 12 years are charged BD8.500++ and kids below four years dine for free.

The meal after Iftar is aptly termed ‘Ghabga’, which means ‘gathering’, as family and friends get together until the early hours of the morning.

Enjoy this festive time in the evening with a daily Ghabga at Sheraton Bahrain’s all-day dining restaurant, Al Safir, from 9pm to 2am, priced at BD12.900++ for adults.

The outlet will also remain open in the daytime during Ramadan, offering a buffet breakfast from 6.30am to 10.30am, priced at BD10.500++. A business lunch buffet will be served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, for BD10++ and an à la carte menu will be offered until 4pm.

Al Iwan will have a special à la carte menu, which will be offered throughout the day with a minimum charge of BD5.

The hotel’s Espressamente Illy café will be open daily from 4pm to midnight.

Call 17 533-533 for reservations and more information or visit http://bit.ly/SheratonRamadan. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Labour Day Festival

Saar Mall organised its International Labour Day Festival at its premises.

Abdulla, Dana & Jassim

Mariam, Arwa & Sara

Abeer, Mariam & Masooma

Ali, Rashid & Yousif

Fatima, Eman & Lulwa

Esmahan

Salama & Rawan

Zakia & Sara

Arafat & Noora

Batool

Ameena

Graphic Design Exhibition The University College of Bahrain held its annual Graphic Design Exhibition at its premises.

Salah, Shaikha Hala, Shaikh Khalid, Liliane & Munawar

Rawand & Rana

Sarah & Zahra

Aya & Amira

Faisal & Zeeshan

Aida, Shaikha Saeeda & Nadia

Thank You Luncheon The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya hosted The Raft Race Thank You Luncheon at the Golden Tulip Hotel.

Yusuf & Sadiq Dawani

92 June 2017

Ahdeya, Khalid, Hanadi & Hisham

Waleed Al Rayes, Zainab & Rodolphe

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan&eidhappenings FLORENCE LA MAISON MÉDITERRANÉENNE

A Mediterranean Take on Ramadan This eatery, which has gained popularity for its excellent ambiance and food, is serving up seasonal delicacies to honour the Holy Month.

Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne, located in Adliya’s Block 338, is geared up to delight hungry diners all through the month with specially curated dishes for Ramadan. The BTM team had a little taste of this delicious repertoire.

Although Florence’s forte is Mediterranean cuisine, this particular menu thoughtfully pays homage to Middle Eastern fare, presented with a contemporary twist. Starting off with the appetisers – Homemade Kebbeh consists of perfectly shaped lamb mince sitting on fuschia-hued hummus, strewn with the earthy flavour of pine nuts. Chicken Borak has saffron-flavoured meat parcelled in light, flaky pastry, accompanied with a creamy pistachio sauce. The Potato-Kunafa balls comprise mashed spuds coated with crackly vermicelli on an airy eggplant mousse – a surefire hit on the list. The Hummus Trio – spiked with pumpkin, beetroot and sun-dried tomatoes – Halloumi Salad and Florence Dip all make for pleasant starters to the feast.

The stars on the main course include Florence Seabass – enticingly flaky fish topped with a tangy preparation of green and black olives, tomatoes, dill and garlic, with grilled vegetables on the side. Bahraini Mansaf with local lamb is a glutinous, creamy and satiating amalgamation of rice, bite-sized chunks of meat and spices. And then there are more traditional options like Bahraini Chicken Mathrubah,

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Harris and the favourite staple - hamour or prawn Machboos.

Pancakes au Romarin and Semolina Pudding are must-haves for dessert. The former, with its ricotta, cotton candy and rosemary syrup, takes you on a trip to sweet paradise. The latter is a grainy, roseflavoured treat, offset perfectly with vanilla ice cream.

The menu is paired with well-thought-out coolers. You may stick to the tried-and-tested Vimto Mojito, or experiment with the refreshing flavours of various concoctions, namely Mango Blossom, Watermelon Sun and Milky Dates, which are as heavenly as they sound.

Call 17 336-373.

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ramadan&eidhappenings THE K HOTEL

Celebratory Feasts This Ramadan and Eid, treat yourself to authentic Arabian hospitality at this four-star property, located in the heart of Juffair.

When the sun sets on the horizon, The K Hotel’s Kolors restaurant comes to life with a fantastic, sumptuous Iftar buffet during the Holy Month.

Guests can enjoy a plethora of traditional and international dishes alongside Ramadan delicacies from across the region.

To add to the indulgence of this outstanding experience, live cooking and carving stations will be set up.

An array of delicious fare such as chicken molokhia, machbous, lamb tagine, tabouleh, hammour, koftabil laban and Bahraini ouzi are on offer. The dessert bar will be packed with delights to tantalise your taste buds with sweet sensations, while providing a fitting end to your meal. These include Umm Ali, assorted baklava, kunafa and kallaj

Bahrain’s 1st Hoedown

Ramadan, to name but a few.

Diners stand a chance to win a one-night stay or an Iftar voucher when filling out the guest satisfaction questionnaire, which will be entered into a raffle draw. The Iftar feast can be enjoyed from sunset to 8.30pm for just BD12++ per person. This offer includes Ramadan juices, coffee and tea, as per your choice. Children aged seven to 12 years eat at half price and those aged six and below dine for free.

Groups and corporate clientele can take advantage of exceptional offers on banquet events, which include a fantastic menu with a complimentary venue at K Hotel.

Come Eid, the hotel will be hosting a special lunch on the second day of the holidays for BD12++ inclusive of soft drinks, and an additional BD7++ for selected beverages.

Call 17 360-000 or email restaurants@ thekhotel.com.

Manama Line Dancing Club held Bahrain’s first Hoedown at the Dilmun Club.

Stanley, Pam, Adnan & Faye

Paul & Jeanie

Andrew, Sarah, Rose & Jacqueline

Afternoon Tea Party

Hussain & Rashida Tadayoun hosted an afternoon tea party to welcome the new Malaysian ambassador, HE Agus Salim Haji Yusuf and his wife Wani.

Wani, Rashida & HE Agus Salim Haji Yusuf

94 June 2017

Back Row - Abdul Hussain Dawani, Rashida, Hussain & Mohammed Front Row – HE Agus Salim Haji Yusuf, Wani, HE Nor Huda, Anne, Henny & George

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DOWNTOWN ROTANA

Ramadan Celebrations This five-star hotel, located next to Bab Al Bahrain in the heart of Manama, is commemorating its second Ramadan this year with a spectacular option of festive feasts.

The Holy Month is all about spending time with families, friends and colleagues over scrumptious traditional food. Downtown Rotana welcomes you to savour its vast array of Ramadan delicacies at its grand Al Maha Tent, which can accommodate more than 250 guests.

Enjoy the daily lavish Iftar or Ghabga buffets that are filled with Oriental specialities, international dishes, desserts and refreshing drinks. The mesmerising tunes of the oud player will entertain the crowd, leaving you with a remarkable Ramadan experience and a night to remember.

The Al Maha Tent represents true Arabic hospitality within its white and blue Arabesque haven, decorative archways, large ornamental lamps and unique geometric designs. The table set-ups are chic and minimalistic with a simple runner and an LED lantern as a centrepiece to light up the evening.

Guests can also relish the delectable delights while seated on the long terrace on the eighth floor, which boasts stunning views of the city, or next to the pool on the ninth floor. Shisha is served in the outdoor venues. Whatever your choice, Downtown Rotana offers a great www.bahrainthismonth.com

ambience and a friendly atmosphere, allowing guests to feel at home while dining and gathering during the Holy Month.

Mouthwatering options are available from the Iftar and Ghabga buffets, from Ramadan juices, such as the refreshing kamer al din apricot drink, jalab made of date blossom, and tamarind, to the sweet endings at the Halawa Souq featuring the most famous Arabic delights in addition to delicious pastries, cakes, chocolates and fruit. The buffet is divided into different sections, presenting oriental meze, cold and hot appetisers, salads, soups, grills and a carving station, as well as Indian, Asian and Arabian flavours, featuring the tempting lamb kouzi, lamb makloubeh, chicken mousakah, prawn biryani and seafood salona.

The live cooking stations bring an upbeat atmosphere to the venue and offer exciting options such as lamb shawarma.

Iftar at Al Maha Tent operates from sunset until 8.30pm, and Ghabga from 9pm until midnight, and is priced at only BD13++. Free parking is available for all hotel guests.

Experience the true essence of Ramadan at Downtown Rotana within a cosy, traditional setting accompanied by the tunes of the oud and the warmth of Arabian hospitality.

Call 13 119-999 or email fb.downtown@ rotana.com.

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ramadan&eidhappenings

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

A Treat for All Indulge in gourmet fare and sublime entertainment during the auspicious occasion of Ramadan and Eid at this magnificent resort.

96 June 2017

Immerse yourself in true Arabian traditions at the majestic oasis of the Al Areen Palace & Spa during this Holy Month.

A scintillating 1001 Arabian Nights theme at Al Qasr tent will leave guests in awe when dining for Iftar and Ghabga. The festivities will take place in an Arabic atrium setting, offering a medley of spaces for families, friends, corporate guests and VIPs. Discover an exquisite buffet of Arabic and international cuisine as you gather round for this joyous occasion. It will also include various cooking counters and barbecue stations paired with live entertainment. Iftar is priced at BD15++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends, starting from sunset to 9pm.

Ghabga is priced at BD13.500++ on weekdays and BD15++ on weekends, running from 9.30pm to 2am.

Corporate packages for Iftar start from BD14++ and BD13++ for Ghabga for groups of 50-100 people and BD13.5++ for Iftar and BD12.5++ for Ghabga for groups of up to 200 people. Groups of 200 and above get a rate of BD13++ and BD12++ respectively per person. Weekends are priced at BD16++ for Iftar and BD15++ for Ghabga.

The celebration continues with a glorious brunch on

the second day of Eid. There will be live entertainment, face painting, henna, a mascot, kids’ corner and much more. Diners will have access to the swimming pool during this time and a ticket to The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park, as well as a chance to win from the grand raffle draw. Brunch is from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced at BD15++. Kids six and under eat for free, and seven to 12 year olds eat at half price.

Take some time to pamper, relax and unwind by combining a spa and epicurean experience. Take advantage of the Ghabga and spa retreat, entailing a day’s use of the spa and health club facilities, water therapy garden, steam and sauna. You can choose a 45-minute hammam maghrabi or foot massage, a 60-minute massage with oud or argan oil, followed by a lavish Ghabga at the tent. All this is priced for an unbeatable BD58 per person.

Sign up for an exclusive membership at the spa and start a healthier lifestyle that relaxes your body, mind and soul. On top of that, you can get additional prepaid benefits for your personal pampering plan. A platinum membership costs BD900 with a BD200 spa credit, the gold is priced at BD500 with BD150 spa credit, and the silver is BD300 with BD100 credit.

Lose weight and get fit by signing up for a gym membership which provides flexibility, value for money and access to the best equipment and classes available. Pay BD375 annually, BD250 for six months, BD175 for three months or BD100 monthly. This will grant you full access to the pool facilities, the hammam garden, which consists of a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, participation in fitness and wellness activities, plus special discounts on selected treatments, villas and restaurants. A day pass lets you enjoy the same but without the long commitment.

Don’t let the weather stop you from achieving your dream body. Work up a sweat while having fun at the tennis and squash courts or the health club. It is priced at BD8 on weekdays or BD12 on weekends.

Call 17 845-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MERCURE GRAND HOTEL SEEF

Exquisite Offerings Take delight in authentic traditions in style at this four-star hotel’s magnificent Ramadan tent.

Celebrate the Holy Month at the famous Al Bawadi Tent on the rooftop of the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef. Enjoy the widest selection of delicious Oriental and international dishes, delectable Ramadan juices, ice cream, beverages, shisha and more. Iftar runs from sunset to 8.30pm, priced at BD12++ per person and free for children 10 years and younger. Suhoor runs till 2am on weekdays, going for BD7++ per person. Ghabga runs till 2am daily for BD12++ per person.

Evenings spent at the Al Bawadi Tent are truly a unique, chilled out experience with a soothing ambiance for friends and families to relax in together.

Enjoy beats from a music trio as well as oud symphonies in addition to a wide variety of special cocktails and shisha flavours created by the team.

Feel the true essence of Ramadan while enjoying the splendid hospitality at the Mercure Grand.

Call 17 584-400.

Al Bawadi Tent ً ‍ا ع ا ا‏ ً

‍  ال ع ن ا‏

From Iftar till 2 am Daily during the month of Ramadan

For Reservation

Daily Ramadan Buffet

Mohammed El Tokhi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

For Reservation

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Ramadan Ambiance

June 2017 97

bystander

Sandi Thom Concert

The multi-platinum selling Scottish singer/ songwriter, Sandi Thom, performed during a Dogfather fundraiser concert at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club.

Gamie, Lisa & Janice

Sandi Thom performing

Stephen & Lauren

Jennifer & Maelina

Wolf, Maxeen, Krimson & Shamed

Alia, Dalia & Razan

Ingu, Juergen & Marianni

Siobhan & Jiobhan

Trib Fest

The annual Trib Fest music festival took place at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club.

Catherine & Asaty

Paula, Hannah, Fiona, Kacey & Caitlyn

Ameena

Godfrey Gayle as Stevie Wonder

Ali & Zain

Casey & Deyna

Cameron & Olivia

Patrick & Louise

Paula & Miranda

Katt & Ellie

98 June 2017

Darren, Miranda & Sally

Reem, Julia, Afsana, Laura, Heba & Fatema

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan&eidhappenings RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE

An Extraordinary Experience

For a special Ramadan experience and great value for money, head to this popular hotel in the heart of the Seef District.

Middle Eastern restaurant Reem Al Bawadi, at Ramada Manama City Centre, invites you to savour a warm and relaxed ambiance daily from sundown onwards.

Guests can enjoy a lavish Iftar buffet with traditional Arabic cuisine, including a variety of delightful desserts, in a peaceful atmosphere.

Sports enthusiasts can catch on the latest football matches and entertainment programmes on one of the many TV screens in the premises. Enjoy shisha on the terrace with an enthralling view while mesmerising Arabic beats play in the background.

All this and more is priced at just BD10 per person. Groups and corporates can get special rates. Ghabga is available on an Ă la carte basis.

The hotel is a newcomer to the Seef district’s emerging skyline. With an excellent location near City Centre Bahrain, it is conveniently situated in close proximity to several shopping and entertainment options. Admire the view from your well-equipped suite or head up to the rooftop pool and unwind at the tranquil spa. Family-friendly interconnecting rooms are available. Exceptional and attentive service guarantees a memorable stay.

Call 17 104-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2017 99

ramadan&eidhappenings SWISS-BELHOTEL SEEF

A Great Sunset Experience This hotel, located in the heart of the island’s commercial district, has rolled out the red carpet for guests to make the most of the Holy Month.

Swiss-Belhotel Seef delivers to its guests the ultimate experience of the revered season. The luxury four-star hotel warmly invites you to indulge in and appreciate the Arabic traditions that are special during Ramadan.

Unwind from the daily routine of life at the Swiss-Café restaurant, where a sumptuous Iftar buffet will be laid out for only BD12 (all inclusive) per person. There will also be typical Ramadan beverages to cool down with and an oud player will set the mood for the evening.

Guests will get a chance to win raffle draw prizes on weekends. Children aged six to 12 years get a 50 per cent discount, while those below six years of age eat for free. This cosy restaurant is the place to be for exquisite and authentic cuisine, along with warm, welcoming service.

Private group Iftar and Ghabga dinners can be booked at the 27th floor of the hotel. Priced at BD12, inclusive of taxes, per person, this will make for a wonderful experience with a 360-degree view of Bahrain. For every 10 paying guests, one guest enjoys a free meal.

Swiss-Belhotel has exclusive offers on room rates during the Holy

Catch Up Party

Month with packages starting from BD37++.

The hotel is conveniently located close to Seef Mall and has recently been awarded the ‘best four-star hotel in the GCC’ for the second time in a row. The hotel’s dedicated food and beverage team will make sure your family and friends will have an unforgettable best-value-intown experience.

Call 66 310-000.

Hana, Peter, Alison, Blossom, Danial, Alya

Serena, Denzil & Carol

Alison Lilywhite held a social party at the Juffair Grand Hotel.

Alison & Peter

Marushka, Alya, Hana & Alison

Alya, Ozwald, Alison, Shalini

Hana & Blossom

Anne & Peter

100 June 2017

Surbita, Irwin, Alison, Peter & Prakash

Kareena, Anil, Alison, Val & Marita

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ramadan&eidhappenings GOLDEN TULIP BAHRAIN HOTEL

A Feast of Offers

Enjoy a sumptuous spread when breaking your fast at any of the three classy options at this five-star hotel.

Indulge in authentic Arabic fare when choosing to dine at the Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The three venues on offer will leave you spoilt for choice.

Daily Ghabgas, featuring live cooking stations grilling delicious shawarmas, shish tawook, kebabs and plenty more, will be hosted at the Al Afandi Ramadan tent. A sumptuous buffet spread serving delectable eats will ensure there is something to cater to every palate. It can be booked for private gatherings of up to 500 people. Smoking is permitted within the venue. A similar ambiance, but in a non-smoking setting, is provided at the Gilgamesh Ballroom.

Iftar is priced at BD11.500++ per person. Kids aged six and under eat for free, and those 12 years and under pay half price. Iftar will be served from 6.30pm onwards at Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, and Ghabga is from 8pm to 2am, price upon selection. Special rates for corporate and groups are available.

Other outlets such as the C. Club Sports Bar and Lounge, Mawal Lebanese Restaurant, and Platinum Night Club will be closed during the Holy Month. Kei Japanese Restaurant will keep operating as normal.

A grand family fiesta is planned for the second day of Eid at the property. Expect a fun-filled celebration with food stations, a singer and a DJ to keep the festivities going.

Call 17 535-000 or 39 995-142/181/182. www.bahrainthismonth.com

June 2017 101

ramadan&eidhappenings GULF HOTEL

Enjoy Arabian Nights

This popular hotel is dishing up a hefty helping of fun and tradition this Ramadan.

102 June 2017

During the Holy Month the Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa invites you to experience its popular Ramadan tent, Khaimat Al Khaleej, which serves Iftar and Ghabga daily.

This year the tent is bigger and better than ever. It will be decorated in a traditional manner, showcasing sophisticated contemporary design intertwined with artistic elements of local culture and heritage. There will be live entertainment from oud, tabla and keyboard players.

Guests can share precious family moments playing classic board games or relaxing with speciality shisha – served in a separate interconnecting lounge. The kids’ area will host a series of creative activities and surprises to make sure your little ones have fun too.

“There is so much to offer in Khaimat Al Khaleej,” says Rahim Abu Omar, general manager of the Gulf Hotel, Bahrain. “This year we are taking Khaimat Al Khaleej to a whole new level. It will delight all our patrons and guests during this Holy Month.”

In addition to the tent, there will be a lavish Iftar featured daily at the award-winning Persian restaurant, Takht Jamsheed. The buffet is prepared with the freshest local ingredients and offers traditional Arabic specialities. Each venue has a charge of BD19++ per person and both are open until 8pm.

Offerings include a selection of exquisite dates, refreshing juices, as well as hot and cold meze, with an enticing choice of salads, home-baked breads, shawarma and falafel. Add to this a wide variety of traditional Arabic dishes including quozi, thareed, harees and desserts such as Umm Ali, kunafa and mahalabiya.

For those who wish to enjoy a late evening gettogether with friends and family, the Khaimat Al Khaleej tent will be open every night during Ramadan from 10pm onwards. Prices are BD17++ on weekdays and BD19++ on weekends, and guests may indulge in a delicious buffet while enjoying traditional Arabic music.

Several options are available for both Ghabga and Iftar packages, with special rates for corporate groups and Prestige Club members.

As Ramadan draws to a close the Gulf Hotel will also be launching exciting and special packages to celebrate the upcoming Eid Al Fitr.

Call 17 713-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

@BHThisMonth

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ramadan&eidhappenings BAHRAIN FAMILY LEISURE COMPANY

A Reputation for Excellence Chef Jagath says he sees great potential for Kazbah, which offers authentic food prepared with traditional cooking techniques, and believes Kazbah Catering cannot be compared to other operators on the island. The dedicated kitchen team follows a strict code of professionalism during preparation, handling and storage while adhering to all health and safety guidelines.

He hopes to further expand this section of the business with additional projects, events management and offering food and beverage services to customers for special occasions. He has prepared menus that cater to a wide variety of tastes and suit a range of functions. It is a great way to deliver what the client wants with a continued focus on preserving high standards and value for money.

Kazbah Catering guarantees excellent standards of food preparation, presentation and service for private and corporate functions.

This leading company offers a wide range of delicious options for discerning customers.

104 June 2017

Kazbah Catering is a newly formed catering division of well-known restaurant operator Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC).

Although a recent competitor in the catering industry, it has built a reputation for providing food solutions for businesses, events and organisations across the Kingdom. The division, whilst young, is currently delivering daily meals to Bahrain International School. In addition to supplying food to schools and other establishments, Kazbah Catering has created the daily ‘Lunch Box’ delivery that has taken the service to a whole new level by packing and delivering lunch boxes to homes, offices and schools on weekdays.

This Ramadan, Kazbah is set to launch Iftar food delivery in place of the regular lunch box delivery. The Kazbah Iftar meal package for one person is BD5.200, which includes dates and laban, bread, soup, salad, cold appetiser, hot appetiser, main course, dessert, and a beverage. Kazbah also offers one free Iftar meal for every five ordered.

One of the people behind the success of Kazbah Catering is executive chef Jagath Nickson, who has been with BFLC since 2014. He has used his long professional hotel experience to bring the standard of Kazbah Catering to hotel quality. He now works closely with the new BFLC general manager Ibrahim Abdo to bring Kazbah to the top of the catering industry. The chef and the team are striving on a daily basis in order to provide a unique product and service for customers.

Call 38 811-589 or send an email to marketing@ bflc.com.bh.

Executive chef Jagath Nickson

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

At the Pinnacle of Tradition Celebrate the essence of Ramadan by dining under the starry sky at the apex of one of the popular hotels in the heart of the city.

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa is welcoming you and your dear ones to relish the true tradition of the Holy Month.

Ramadan is a time of the year to reflect, give and forgive. After a day of fasting, the best way to reward yourself is to gather around an Iftar table with your loved ones.

Experience a unique event at Al Fanar, one of the favourite rooftop Iftar venues on the island. Witness a breathtaking sunset over Manama’s iconic skyline as you break your fast with delicious traditional Arabic dishes from different Middle Eastern cuisines complemented by earthy spices, fresh dates and refreshing juices. Round off your evening with a delightful assortment of local and continental desserts. All this and more is priced at just BD16 per person. Children under six dine for free.

For private and corporate Ghabgas, the Grand Ambassador Ballroom is the perfect venue to enjoy this much-loved experience. The friendly service and exquisite delicacies are what make this spot popular. The Diplomat Radisson provides tradition, with dishes from a richly varied set menu, in a magical Arabian atmosphere to make your Ghabga a memorable one.

Call 17 525-270, 39 945-208 or email bqt.diplomat@radissonblu.com.

Motors and the Mustang Club Bahrain Car Show Almoayyed held a car show at the Galleria Mall in Zinj.

Abdulla & Ali

Yousif, Bader & Ahmed

Mohammed

Mahdi & Al Hamadi

Ahmed, Adnan & Khalifa

Salahudin

Wasim & Mohammed

Ali & Ali

Jenny, Khalil & Mohammed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ali & Mohammed

Mo

June 2017 105

ramadan&eidhappenings AL RASHID GROUP

Flaunt Your Style This time of the year is strewn with evening galas and get-togethers. Rising to the occasion, this clothing retailer offers you irresistible options that will make heads turn.

Max, the largest and most trusted value fashion brand in the region, has unveiled its latest Ramadan collection. The new range is characterised by old-world charm and glamorous themes from vintage Hollywood movies, while keeping the essence of modest Arabic traditions intact.

The core element of the women’s line is Femme Fatale.

Hand-embroidered cape dresses and jumpsuits, plissé offshoulder tops, maxi skirts and collarless sequined jackets are the key pieces of this theme. Made using chiffon, metallic pleats and hammered satin, they feature scattered sequins and dark oriental flowers to give a stunning red carpet feel. The Persian Tale is another theme in the women’s line. Kaftan maxi dresses, embroidered skirts, ethnic jackets and traditional-style dresses pay a Middle Eastern tribute with artisan, saturated hues for an ethnic revival.

The Gentleman’s Club is the core theme for the men’s collection. It comprises elevated white shirts, tailored waistcoats and single-breasted suits, as well as slim-fit shirts made from printed jacquard. The designs include selvedge denim and mercerised jersey, tonal polka dots, and geo dobbies. This unique theme is complemented by accessories such as the bow tie, pocket square and lapel pins to highlight modern details and metallic hints. The young jazz fest trend is fundamental to the men’s line. The foil-printed T-shirts, panelled souvenir jacket and the classic bow tie highlight the golden age of jazz.

Get your young boys set for Ramadan Iftar in three-piece suits at great-value pricing. Girls can choose from pretty dresses with lace details and embellishments for a bit of sparkle. Max has also developed a few key silhouettes for the mini-me fashion trends with mothers and daughters, as well as fathers and sons, dressed in special-occasion wear for Ramadan.

As part of the Landmark Group, one of the largest retail conglomerates in the region, Max is the biggest and mosttrusted value fashion brand in the Middle East, North Africa and India. It boasts over 350 stores across 16 countries.

The brand caters to the mid-market segment and retails its own private label clothing for men, women and children along with footwear, home and fashion accessories. Max makes over 100,000 customers happy every day.

The Ramadan collection is now available at Max stores located in City Centre Bahrain; Seef Mall – Muharraq and Isa Town; Oasis Mall – Muharraq and Riffa; Marina Mall – Segaya; and Juffair Mall.

Visit Facebook page MaxFashionMENA or follow Instagram and Twitter @ maxfashionMENA. 106 June 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Feminine Statement

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Oozing glamour and confidence, this fresh new piece from lolaandgrace will boost your favourite look and reflect your fun-loving attitude. From extravagant and bold to refined and minimal, this festive and feminine line plays with vivid colours. With rich, summery shades, the stunning Swarovski crystals imitate the leafy compositions of arabesque adornments.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

An Ode to Nature

As the new season approaches, Van Cleef & Arpels is revisiting its Frivole collection. Nine original creations enhance the maison’s range in a bloom of graphic flowers. Ranging from a single blossom to shimmering bouquets, the different models light up the skin with their precious brilliance.

Available at Van Cleef & Arpels, Moda Mall.

Keep Cool Get summer ready with New Look’s bang-on-trend accessories. Whether you’re heading to the beach, going boating or just chilling by the pool, spruce up your look with this floppy sun hat and cat eye sunglasses – oh so chic!

Available at New Look, City Centre Bahrain.

Festive Line Dune London’s exclusive capsule collection of footwear and accessories reinterprets the embellished trend with unique and stunning details. Adding a perfect touch of glamour for Eid, the collection comes in jewel tones including pink, red, navy and shimmering lurex.

Available at Dune London, City Centre Bahrain.

108 June 2017

Power and Beauty Gold Incense is the first fragrance of Carolina Herrera’s newest signature collection, Eastern Treasures. This intriguing unisex layering scent is an ode to frankincense.

Spicy floral and gourmand accords blend in a distinctive fusion enhanced with exotic spices.

Available at leading retailers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

ASIA JEWELLERS

Solid and Strong With unrivalled visibility, even at great depths, and a uniquely distinctive appearance, these models enhance the tradition of this renowned watchmaker’s submersible timepieces.

The new Panerai Submersible watches draw inspiration from the history of a brand which has its roots in the world of the sea, but which is also always looking forward to the future, presenting excellent technical solutions and advancements.

The innovations are apparent in the variety of materials used in producing the cases: traditional high-specification substances, such as titanium and AISI 316L stainless steel; precious materials such as red gold: fascinating, evocative ones such as bronze, or inventive ones such as BMG-TECH, a metallic glass remarkable for its resistance to external shocks and corrosion.

Another novelty concerns the movement: all the new Panerai Luminor 1950 Submersible watches use the P.9010 automatic calibre, with a power reserve of three days. Entirely developed and produced at the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchâtel, the movement has the date, the classic small seconds counter at nine o’clock, the mechanism for stopping the balance wheel and the device for changing the time by moving the hour hand backwards or forwards in jumps of one hour without interfering with the running of the watch.

The design of this new Submersible reveals www.bahrainthismonth.com

the great attention paid to perfecting every little detail, preserving intact all the characteristics which have made this model a classic of high-quality sports watchmaking.

The Luminor 1950 case has a unidirectional rotating bezel with a graduated scale for calculating the time of immersion, connected through a special system designed and patented by Officine Panerai to ensure the extreme accuracy of each click. The distinctive Panerai bridge device protects the winding crown and exercises a light pressure on it, helping to ensure the high level of waterresistance – a standard feature of these models – to a depth of 300 metres (30 bar), and 100 metres for the red gold model. Lastly, the dials are clear, perfectly legible in the dark as well as in the light, and immediately recognisable as Panerai.

Luminor Submersible 1950 BMG-Tech 3 Days Automatic – 47mm The Panerai Laboratorio di Idee presents an invisible but revolutionary innovation, resulting from its continuous research into design and new materials: BMG-TECH. The secret of this material, which has been used to make the case of the new Luminor Submersible 1950 BMG-TECH 3 Days Automatic, lies not so much in its appearance – which is similar to that of titanium but darker grey in colour – as in its atomic structure. It

provides a range of very useful qualities for an underwater watch: extreme resistance to wear, high strength and great lightness.

The bezel, winding crown and associated protection device are also made of BMG-TECH, which is a metallic glass made from a special glass-like alloy (consisting of zirconium, copper, aluminium, titanium and nickel) in a way which prevents crystallisation, so that the atoms do not arrange themselves in regular geometric structures. The ‘chaotic’ structure of the material is the secret of its properties – in particular, its extreme corrosion resistance, great robustness and resistance to external shocks and magnetic fields. It offers further advantages to the watch owner by providing excellent performance while preserving its appearance virtually unchanged over time.

Entirely developed and created by the Panerai Haute Horlogerie Manufacture, the P.9010 automatic movement consists of 200 components and with 31 jewels, the calibre is 13¾ lignes in diameter and 6mm thick.

The back of the model (PAM00692) is made of titanium and the strap is black rubber.

Panerai timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

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

June 2017 109

marketplace

ASIA JEWELLERS

Bold and Beautiful This Italian luxury house’s special edition timepieces express the daring creativity of the brand with a strong sense of refinement.

Fendi Timepieces unveils the new Fendi My Way Topazes Special Edition featuring a combination of arc-cut topazes, diamonds and mother-of-pearl in four colour variations. The new sophisticated versions of the renowned Fendi My Way collection are enhanced with a unique blend of precious materials and bold hues.

A fusion of elegance and femininity Elegant yet audacious, with distinctive design, the new timepieces embrace daring shades featuring a bezel set with exquisite topazes (approximately 2.67 carats) and 47 white diamonds (approximately 0.23 carat) on the dial.

The watch dial is enriched by a green or blue mother-of-pearl central zone framed by a diamond ring, silver-coloured studs and three diamonds as indexes. The iconic FENDI logo at 12 o’clock pays homage to the brand’s heritage and DNA. Accompanied by a Green Verde or Blue Dorothy Glamy, the tone-on-tone removable Arctic fox collar crafted in the FENDI ateliers in Italy is an ultimate accessory for an especially head-turning entrance. When worn unadorned, it reveals the watch case curved lines and the refined green or blue calfskin leather strap embracing the wrist.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient Roman amphitheatres, these timepieces celebrate the company’s Roman roots.

Daring and boldly elegant, the Fendi My Way Topazes Special Edition appeals to women who seek to bravely assert their individuality and charismatic femininity.

FENDI, with its roots dating back to 1925, began its foray into the world of luxury timepieces in 1988. Since then, Fendi Timepieces has unveiled iconic wrist designs for women and men, combining Italian taste and Swiss craftsmanship, and focusing on the opulence of materials and colours. All Fendi Timepieces are manufactured in Switzerland.

These references are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

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

110 June 2017

The Fendi My Way Topazes Special Edition in green is blooming with colour: the green arc-cut topazes are enhanced by the tone-on-tone mother-of-pearl central zone and the matching calfskin leather strap.

The bold elegance of this new Fendi My Way Topazes Special Edition is revealed by a unique combination of noble materials: blue topazes and mother-of-pearl, diamonds and iconic FENDI fur.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

JOZ SALON & SPA

Get the Festive Look Iftar gives you a chance to socialise with family, friends and colleagues, for which you’ll want to look your best. Here are some easy make-up tips for these special evenings.

The key to mastering the perfect look for Iftar is balance. Instead of piling on tons of make-up, go for statement lips or beautiful, stand-out eyes.

It has to be wearable and appropriate for Ramadan, also, as it’s important to look fresh and healthy. Joz Salon & Spa brings you a few tips and tricks to achieve this within a few minutes.

Simplicity is key Not everyone is fortunate enough to have sufficient time on their hands to get ready for an Iftar gathering.

However, you can still look presentable without spending hours doing your make-up. It should be neither too heavy nor plain, just enough to enhance your best features, and to create the appearance of a perfectly healthy, glowing complexion.

Choose a product that gives an airbrushed finish to the skin, yet hydrates and moisturises at the same time, such as a BB cream. With many of us not drinking enough water during Ramadan, the lack of hydration can lead to dark circles under the eyes.

Usually it’s recommended to apply a colour corrector before the concealer; however, in the spirit of keeping things simple, a product that’s a combination of the two will help you to get rid of any dark circles in seconds.

Finally, apply a rosy blush to complement the entire look. Go for a creamy texture, as not only does it create a dewy finish, it also lasts longer than most powdery blushers.

Easy on the eyes Tinted brow gels are the holy grail if you’re in a rush.

They groom the brows in the most natural way and cover up any gaps, and again this can be done within seconds.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Applying eyeliner and/or false lashes can take way too much time. Achieve thick lashes by layering on mascara – not only is this one of the hottest trends this season, it also saves you valuable minutes.

Statement lips will do If you’re too busy cooking up a feast or perhaps just occupied with work, and you don’t have time to do your make-up at all, simply choose a colourful statement lipstick. There are plenty of great waterproof ones that don’t need a single touch up throughout the evening. A bright shade also draws attention away from the rest of the face (no one will even notice that you’re not wearing any other make-up).

If you’re not fond of flashy or dark hues, go for a shade that’s almost similar to your natural skin tone, such as rosewood or in some cases taupe (depending on the complexion).

Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120, 16 031-126 or 17 756-449.

June 2017 111

marketplace RAYMOND

The Gentleman’s Guide to Travel This outfitter ensures you will be sharply dressed and always arrive in style.

There’s a single truth about the sartorial traveller — he gets his ensemble right every single time.

It’s a look you will find in the Raymond Spring Summer ’17 collection, which emphasises that the global nomad has never had it so good and a relaxed elegance is the only visa he requires.

It isn’t easy to forget this man. Wherever he goes, the world is eager to go the extra mile for him. You’ve seen him sample a long al fresco lunch, backslap a pleasantly surprised bellboy, acquire a bottle of the region’s finest chardonnay and, perhaps, the vineyard it came from.

He’s the gentleman who doesn’t really need an upgrade but is always offered one. He could take the red-eye in his perfectly tailored travel suit and arrive at an early morning meeting with an unusual ease.

He’s the gentleman you wish would never check out, and you’ll find him wearing Raymond.

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

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

Call 17 840-506/17 296-363.

CASA CUCINA

A Touch of Style A visit to this store will help you make a remarkable impression on your home, office, school, hotel or restaurant with a selection from the distinctive collections available.

The brands at Casa Cucina offer luxurious and stylish options for those with a love and passion for décor who want to give their home or commercial space a personal touch of creative living.

The store offers premiumquality, trendsetting home and kitchen collections that are unique and elegantly designed to perfection. All items are carefully crafted to suit every space whether personal, professional or commercial.

A spokesman says: “Our products are loyal companions that embellish everyday life, 112 June 2017

offer solutions and create a modern and stylish lifestyle. This gives our valued customers guaranteed satisfaction and leads to recommendations to friends and family.”

Casa Cucina also appeals to both the mind and heart with an amazing range of gifts that demand attention. These items are created by leading designers, produced by experienced masters and recognised with international design awards.

For updates on what’s available at the shop follow the store on Facebook and Instagram @casacucinabahrain or visit the showroom at Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

Call 17 840-707 / 17 296363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

DESSANGE PARIS

Nailed It! Melody Sarmiento

APPLE SHARMA A good manicure is a perfect pampering session that can brighten up your dreary day and help you escape the humdrum of life.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When the going gets tough, the tough get a manicure, or at least that’s what I do when I need a quick ‘pick me up’ on a monotonous day. I was about to plan a trip to the salon when I was offered a chance to review Dessange Paris Bahrain’s Organic Oasis manicure. The grooming gods must’ve read my mind, as I couldn’t have asked for a more opportune time to try out this treatment.

My appointment was at lunchtime, so when I reached the salon, I was getting a little peckish.

Having settled down at the manicure station, I was pleasantly surprised when one of the salon attendants handed me a menu and asked if I wanted to order something to eat or drink. As I finished placing my order, I was greeted by the smiling face of my manicurist, Melody Sarmiento, who is apparently a perfectionist when it comes to nails.

She began by explaining how the Organic Oasis manicure differs from the regular one, as it uses the Green Bar range of organic products at every step of the treatment. As she opened the containers to show me what she was going to use on my hands, the smell of the amazing scents made my olfactory senses do a little happy dance. I knew I was going to thoroughly enjoy this one-hour session of pure bliss.

Melody started by shaping and filing my nails, followed by buffing and shining. She then proceeded to apply Green Bar Tulsi Balm and soak my hands in water to soften the cuticles. I always like to have my cuticles pushed rather than cut.

Paying heed to my request, Melody did exactly that and cut only the excess where needed. Once the pruning bits of the mani were over, it was time to bring on the proper pampering.

She rubbed my hands with Green Bar Indian Coconut & Vetiver scrub, then wiped and wrapped them in warm mitts. After a couple of minutes cocooned in the glorious warmth of the gloves, she massaged my arms and hands with Green Bar Rosy Rose body oil. I felt absolutely relaxed as Melody expertly worked to release all the tension in my hands. It works wonders, especially for tensed fingers like mine, from typing and using the computer mouse too much.

Once my hands were moisturised (you have the option to either leave the oil on or wipe it off) came the difficult decision to choose the nail varnish. With a plethora of organic and regular lacquers, the salon has every shade of the rainbow to choose from.

Melody said that she liked to use bright colours for summer, so I took her advice and opted for a corally pink hue called ‘Gotcha’ from CND VINYLUX. Being an ex-flight attendant and having done some hand modelling in the past, looking after my nails comes second nature to me. I was very flattered when Melody recognised that, and said she would call me if she ever needed a model. Admiring the finished results, my organic mani was nothing short of perfection – Melody had most certainly nailed it!

Call 17 713-999.

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marketplace SHOECITI

Comfort and Style Check out the new festive range of footwear that’s apt for Ramadan at this much-loved shoe shop.

Shoeciti has an amazing new Ramadan collection in store to complement your attire on a traditional evening out. This favourite brand knows that shoes are crucial to one’s comfort, which is the first step to being your self-confident best. Its aim is to ensure that customers leave the store with the perfect footwear that they’ll love.

Shoeciti offers numerous renowned labels to select from — Hush Puppies, CIRO, Soft Science, Wolverine, Skechers, Puma, FitFlop, NewBalance, Jansport, Pablosky, Clarks, Reebok, Nike, Fila, Crocs and more.

Call 17 581-347, City Centre Bahrain or 17 701-847, The Centre Nuwaidrat.

The CIRO Collection These glittered mules are easy to slip on and off. The decorated metal buckle makes this complement an Arabic outfit perfectly.

Available in three colours: pewter, bronze and gold.

Simple but elegant glittered slide-ons are a sturdy choice to wear with flowing abayas, jalabiyas or summer dresses. This versatile pair is fit for shopping all day long and then effortlessly amps up your look for an evening out.

Practical and pleasing, this masculine pair of Arabic sandals sports a shiny crocodile skin-style upper material and a specially designed buckle for a youthful look.

Available in three colours: black, grey and tan.

This traditional Arabic sandal has a smooth leather upper and the stud on the side elevates the look. Available in kids’ sizes as well, it is a classic father-son pair.

Available in three colours: black, beige and white.

114 June 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ARAN CUCINE

Innovative Appeal

Cover collection

Volare eclettico style

Dress your kitchen in the latest, seasonal looks in a jiffy, without the hassle of refurbishing the entire space.

What if you were told you could change the look and have a contemporary, modular kitchen at the drop of a hat? With Aran Cucine’s Cover collection, you can easily change the appearance of your culinary space whenever you want, and as often as you like.

Aran Cucine doesn’t let you tire of the same, www.bahrainthismonth.com

boring décor, thanks to changeable graphics that reflect your own unique personality. The doors of the cabinets comprise magnetic films that are durable and washable, to facilitate changing the artwork on them. So your culinary space can have a new look to suit the season or reflect your mood without the trouble of redecorating the place. This revolutionary, patented technology is garnering fans the world over, for its convenience and ease of use.

The product designs are practical and

attractive, and meet individual lifestyle needs, with a focus on the quality of raw materials, superior craftsmanship and modern ergonomics. True to its reputation for being up to date with the latest technology, the brand brings you the choice of never being bored with the look of your pantry again.

Aran Cucine also has a great line-up of modular styles to select from. If you prefer to stick with convention, time-honoured models lend the comfort of a familiar environment and the convenience of a domestic setting, where tradition and innovation strike a harmonised balance. The collection has an old school charm with the latest attributes and accessories to cater to your everyday needs.

For something more contemporary, the label has a smart, urban range of customised kitchens. The modern collection is characteristic of clean lines and is adaptable to many settings. Assorted materials, such as stainless steel panels, silver decorated frames, white ash, clay, titanium and coloured finishes, are used to exude friendliness and a relaxed vibe.

Over the years, Aran Cucine has become synonymous with sophisticated Italian style, trustworthiness and reliability in luxurious residential complexes all over the world.

The brand has tasted success across Uruguay, Panama, Canada and the Far East. The Middle East is also an ardent patron of these high-end Italian concept kitchens. Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro, one of the Kingdom’s leading business houses, makes the superior products and services of Aran Cucine available in Bahrain.

All creations are conceptualised and manufactured in Italy. Being one of the top market players in the world of designer pantries, the company recognises the importance of protecting the environment. The products are fabricated in a way that all the elements that make them are easily identifiable and separable at the time of their disposal, making it possible to completely recycle them.

As much as 90 per cent of the waste is recovered for use in new assembly processes, or exploited for energy. Special attention has always been paid to preserve and respect the planet and investments have been made in ecofriendly sources of energy.

Call 17 408-111 or visit www.arancucine.com.

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marketplace MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL

Busting Food Myths

One needs to practise mindful eating to achieve optimum health. A dietician from this reputed hospital answers some pertinent questions.

Nutritionist Preethy Karunakar at the Middle East Hospital provides insight into some common myths that will change the way you approach food.

How do food labels benefit us?

People look at food labels for different reasons, but there is a way to use the information to your advantage.

What is important is to check the daily value (DV) percentages on the label. The values printed are based on the recommendations for a standard 2,000-calorie diet. Bear in mind that a five per cent DV (or less) of any particular component is low and a 20 per cent DV (or more) is high.

For instance, if the amount of total fat in one serving listed on the sample nutrition label is 18 per cent DV, is it contributing a lot, or a little, to your daily 100 per cent fat limit?

This 18 per cent DV, which is below 20 per cent DV, may not be too high, but if you ate the whole package that comprises two servings, then you would be eating double that amount — 36 per cent of your daily allowance for total fat.

Can we eat fruits at any time of the day?

Fruits are sugars. Eating them when your body doesn’t need glucose results in its excess, which is stored as fat.

The best time to eat fruit is as a snack between main meals. Combining them with a small portion of nuts or yoghurt slows down digestion to keep you satisfied till your next mealtime.

116 June 2017

Olive oil vs virgin coconut oil – which is best?

Olive oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids, which can lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing your risk of heart disease.

It is claimed that coconut oil is beneficial for everything, from preventing heart disease to weight loss and improved digestion. It contains ‘mediumchain triglycerides’, which are absorbed into the body faster when compared to olive oil. Theoretically, your body would burn this type of fat as a fuel source more readily.

Both the oils are healthy, but ensure that your overall fat consumption is around 20 to 30 per cent of your total calorie intake per day.

Is butter really harmful?

Studies show that there is no association between saturated fat and heart disease. Butter contains short- and medium-chain fats, which are metabolised differently from other fats. They lead to improved satiety and increased fat-burning. Moreover, dairy from grass-fed cows is particularly rich in Vitamin K2.

Have the unsalted version with vegetables or natural cereals, rather than with processed foods.

Quick tip: A tablespoon of unsalted butter in your morning cup of black coffee will boost your metabolism.

Almonds – soaked, raw or roasted – what’s the verdict?

Many are unaware that the brown peel of almonds contains tannin, which inhibits nutrient absorption.

Once the almonds are soaked, the peel comes off easily, allowing the nuts to release nutrients. Soaked almonds also help with digestion. It releases the enzyme lipase, which is beneficial for fat digestion.

So make a habit of soaking the almonds overnight and have your share of nutrition every morning.

Call 17 362-233 or visit the Middle East Hospital in Segaya. www.bahrainthismonth.com

FARHAT INTERNATIONAL TOURS & TRAVELS WLL

Ship Ahoy!

Hop on to a cruise for an unforgettable break from the mundanity of this year to return with a treasure trove of wonderful memories.

The well-known Norwegian Cruise Line has been offering travels of a lifetime to people from around the world. The company was named North America’s and Europe’s Leading Cruise Line for the ninth consecutive year, and the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Line for the fourth consecutive year at the 2016 World Travel Awards.

This year, sail with one of the best cruise operators in the world – the options are aplenty. Five Norwegian ships are sailing around Europe during the summer. The Norwegian Getaway sails on an eight- or ninenight Baltic Capitals cruise, departing from Copenhagen. This spectacular itinerary includes port calls in Tallinn in Estonia, Helsinki in Finland, Stockholm in Sweden and an overnight halt in St Petersburg in Russia.

You can also embark the Norwegian Jade throughout its full season from Hamburg. Pick from seven- and nine-day Western Europe cruises or nine- and 10-day trips around the Norwegian fjords. Departures are also available from the UK and Amsterdam.

The beautifully refurbished Norwegian Epic sails on the popular sevennight Western Mediterranean itinerary, boarding from Barcelona, Rome or Marseille. Norwegian Spirit offers 10- and 11-night Grand Mediterranean cruises between Barcelona and Venice, and Norwegian Star glides from Venice to Greece, the Adriatic islands and Turkey.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced three Cirque Dreams Epicurean new Cirque Dreams and Dinner shows with breathtaking acts that change throughout the year, so vacationers can have stunning, new entertaining experiences every single time they sail.

Guests will be treated to Cirque Dreams and Steam at the Illusionarium on the beautiful Norwegian Getaway for her summer season in Europe.

Cirque Dreams Epicurean will captivate visitors with awe-inspiring feats and colourful eccentricities in Norwegian Epic’s Spiegel Tent.

Norwegian Cruise Line is represented by Farhat International Tours & Travels WLL in the Arabian Gulf.

Call 17 216-411 or email cruise1@farhat-tours.com

Opera Night

Nelly, Julia & Fatima

Souq Ramadan

The Domain Hotel and Spa held an opera concert featuring British operatic soprano Erika Nottingham Rawles and pianist Michelle Miles at Domain Prive.

Frank, Michelle & Erika

Souq Ramadan Charity Bazaar was held at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporaty Art.

Fatema & Mohammed

Phoebe & Sophie

Lina & Shahla

Ahmed & Sophia

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Maha

Dalia & Azza

Jonathan & Trish

Megan & Grace

Chris, Lynn & Donna

Shawn

Faisal

June 2017 117

marketplace ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Hear Your Heart Out A specialist from this reputed hospital explains the importance of good habits in today’s stressful times and provides tips to maintain a healthy heart.

At a time when rapidly changing lifestyles are putting much pressure on maintaining good overall health, how exactly can you keep your heart healthy? Besides consuming a wellbalanced diet and exercising regularly, Dr Waleed Sultan, cardiology specialist at the Royal Bahrain Hospital, suggests a few simple steps to keep your body healthy and happy.

Trans fats – A No-No! Frozen pizzas, doughnuts, cakes and cookies contain high amounts of trans fats that are used to enhance taste and texture. Trans fats increase the risk of having a stroke or developing heart disease over time because they clog up the arteries by raising bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and lowering good cholesterol levels (HDL). By cutting out these

Dr Waleed Sultan

foods from your diet, your blood flow will improve throughout your body.

Get Good Sleep We lead busy lives, but it is essential to dedicate enough time to a consistent sleeping pattern. Consequences of lack of sleep include, but are not limited to, cardiovascular disease (regardless of age) and disruptions in our biological processes, leading to high blood pressure and inflammation. So make sure to get seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

Stand Up Studies also show that sitting for long

stretches of time is bad for your health. Many, whose jobs require hours of work at a desk, have a high risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot). Simple solutions such as routine walks around the office, parking farther away from your destination and daily exercise will definitely decrease the risk of getting cardiovascular diseases.

Follow these tips to care for your ticker, feel livelier and lead a wholesome lifestyle.

Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com

Staff Party G4S held its annual staff appreciation ceremony at the Elite Crystal Hotel.

Management and staff at the event

Mohammed, Abdulkarim, Younis & Bipendra

Claire, John, Maggie & Wallace

118 June 2017

Leon, Anup, David, Brianna, Lee & Brian

Atanu, Sumera & Claud

Jaffer, Atanu & Robert

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AL SAFIR HOTEL AND TOWER

A Hub for All With a plethora of accommodation and leisure options, this property in Juffair is a smart choice for families as well as corporate and leisure travellers.

Being Bahrain’s first ISO-certified hotel, Al Safir Hotel and Tower takes pride in its motto, ‘hospitality is our heritage’.

With 126 deluxe rooms and top-of-the-line services, guests are guaranteed a truly regal treatment at budget-friendly prices.

“We are adding more entertainment facilities to cater for the requirements of those who enjoy music and different types of food,” says general manager Naveen Narayanan.

On level 13 is a grand health club equipped with a gym, temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam and Jacuzzi.

The adjoining tower offers both lodging and leisure, providing the 68 residences with hotel facilities. Out of those, 24 are executive rooms, 39 are suites with the option of merging two to form three-bedroom accommodation, there are

www.bahrainthismonth.com

four VIP suites and an imperial suite that comes with its own private pool.

Indulge your taste buds at one of the many gastronomic outlets at the property, such as the all-day diner Yalla Yalla, Cucina Italiana and Bennigan’s.

For Ramadan, the Wanasa Khaimah Tent will serve Iftar and Ghabga, paired with live entertainment, on a daily basis.

Call 17 827-999.

June 2017 119

marketplace ALRAWI

Broadening the Horizons and creating interaction and engagement around them.

Target: - Young professionals with long commuting times (when stuck in traffic) - Traditional readers, from age groups 18 to 25 - Children and millennials - Individuals with special needs The Bigger Picture: - Improve reading - Help countries achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 (ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning) - Create a green environment by delivering audio books - Create job and market opportunities all across the world for publishers, authors, narrators and studios, in addition to all the other specialised skills that this service requires (for example proofreaders)

Co-founders and partners, Hala Ahmed Sulaiman, Mohamed Ebrahim and Ameera Mohamed

In a bid to revive readership of Arabic language books, three dynamic individuals have launched an innovative new platform to encourage reading.

AlRawi App

120 June 2017

Co-founders and partners, Hala Ahmed Sulaiman, Mohamed Ebrahim and Ameera Mohamed, have come together to introduce a new website and app called AlRawi.

The mission of these three avid book lovers is to make reading enjoyable and easily accessible to people around the world by creating the largest audio library accessible through all smart-peripheral devices. They are passionate about the cultural value and service this app will give back to the community.

With 362 million Arabic speakers worldwide, there are 16,500 books published each year.

What does AlRawi offer?

AlRawi Website: Purpose: For the e-community to convert books into interactive audio books.

Target: Narrators, publishers, authors, writers, studios and professional Arabic proofreaders.

Currently, the database has more than 120 narrators and over 60 samples ready and available to choose from, as well as 30 recorded books.

AlRawi App: Purpose: e-marketplace for listening to audio books

How is AlRawi different?

AlRawi is a Bahraini-Arab application that aspires to provide a holistic service in audio book creation and distribution for Arabic books.

It aims to create an e-community that allows authors and/or publishers and narrators to network, match up and create audio books, and then distribute these to final users through AlRawi.

It will allow readers to browse through the online library of audio books from the application in different categories and subcategories, and download the book they like after listening to a sample audio clip.

Users will also be able to search for books with the title, author or narrator names.

The launch of the pilot phase, with some of the features and functionalities, took place last month.

By November, it will be launched on a regional basis at the Sharjah International Book Fair – the biggest of its kind in the Arab world – with 100 audio books. The wide range of material will include novels, biographies, children’s books, poetry and history, amongst others.

The founders believe the AlRawi app will benefit its various stakeholders in the current digital era and bring value to book lovers. They are also working with research and academic institutes to present their content in audio format. Their longterm goal is to have 10,000 books and one million users by 2030.

Email info@alrawi.com, visit www.alrawi.com or follow social media channels Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @alrawibooks. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace business bites

Bahrain Hotel Debut

Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta and Mohammed Alshaya, chairman of KFCD (King Faisal Corniche Development) and Mabanee Company SAK, confirmed an agreement to open the island’s first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property. The USD66 million, 210-room Hilton Bahrain Bay Hotel & Residences will be located at The Avenues in Manama – a major retail and leisure destination scheduled to open later this year.

The property will be directly attached to The Avenues, Bahrain. The first phase of the development is due to open towards the end of the year and will offer a wide choice of leading retail and restaurant brands covering 40,000sq/m. A second phase will add a further 30,000sq/m to the Bahrain Bay waterfront site.

Developer Receives International Certification

Set For Take-Off Gulf Air Holidays, the carrier’s dedicated vacation unit, has appointed online travel booking company Ezeego1.com as its back-end service provider. The travel company will offer travellers a wide range of vacation packages and tailor-made travel solutions to destinations worldwide. Chief commercial officer Ahmed Janahi says: “We are looking forward to the launch of Gulf Air Holidays – a key service to our customers that will cater to their various and diverse travel needs. With Ezeego1.com as our service provider, we anticipate greater capabilities to reach a broader market segment – specifically those travellers looking for the ease of pre-purchased holiday packages that include air tickets, hotel bookings, transfers and more, all at a more competitive and attractive rate.”

Lucky Number Three The Rotary Club of Manama received three district awards at the Annual Rotary International Conference for District 2452. The event garnered hundreds of participants from the nine countries that constitute the district, namely Armenia, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Sudan and the UAE. This annual conference unites members to address concerns regarding issues such as health, hunger and literacy in the countries of the district, coming up with ideas and action plans to tackle the problems. The Manama chapter has been active in social voluntary work in Bahrain for decades, launching projects and initiatives that aim to achieve comprehensive social and economic development.

Premium Cards Launched Diyar Al Muharraq has achieved the distinction of being certified to ISO 9001, a significant accomplishment that highlights the developer’s stringent adherence to regulations, which reflect the highest quality standards. In line with the company’s progressive vision of a fully selfsustainable city within a city, Diyar Al Muharraq has fostered excellent operational practices throughout the years, thus laying the foundation for its ISO 9001 certification. Commenting on this, chief executive officer Dr Maher Al Shaer says: “It brings me immense pleasure to be witness to such a significant moment in our timeline. Receiving the ISO 9001 certification is testament to the relentless commitment we consistently practice in our perpetual pursuit of excellence in all aspects of our operations.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

CrediMax launched its newest top premium cards, Visa Infinite and MasterCard World Elite during a cocktail reception. The company’s elite VIP customers will be able to enjoy new privileges, designed to enrich the experience on four key elements – travel, dining, shopping and entertainment.

Cardholders are given access to a range of lifestyle privileges including entry to over 600

airport lounges, exclusive discounts and offers, exclusive hotel memberships, personalised concierge services and much more.

June 2017 121

marketplace business bites

Key Investment Strategies Discussed

The Bahrain Bourse (BHB) highlighted how Bahrain Investment Market (BIM) can improve the liquidity of capital-intensive industries and boost foreign investment to the Kingdom. This came during an orientation session organised by BHB for members of the country’s Property Developers Association and the Foreign Investors Association.

BHB chief executive officer Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa noted that construction and real estate is one of the BIM’s key target areas saying: “Sectors that require large amounts of capital to start and operate, such as construction and real estate development, will be able to access a global network of investors and enhance their financial standing and sustainability over the long term.”

Financial Results Showcase Profits Financial results for the first quarter of 2017 for Seef Properties cited a profit of BD2.45 million, compared to BD2.20 million during the same period last year, which marks growth of 11.33 per cent. Commenting on the financial results, chairman Essa Najibi says: “We are pleased to be reaping the rewards of our strategy and to have achieved robust results on all fronts, including revenues, profits and overall activities. We are pushing ahead with our efforts to realise the company’s corporate objectives.

“As we enter the second quarter of this year, we will be focusing our efforts on monitoring and evaluating prospective growth opportunities in order to develop our investment portfolio in the long run and maintain strong financial results.”

122 June 2017

New Manager Appointed The Royal Golf Club announced the arrival of new retail manager Jerome Ackermann to the team. Jerome hails from Knysna in South Africa and originally started his career as a primary school student teacher before entering the golf retail industry as pro shop supervisor at the Pezula Championship Golf Course in the Western Cape. He then spent three years at the prestigious Pinnacle Point Beach, Golf and Heritage Estate, where he played a multi-faceted role as pro shop assistant, operations supervisor and golf coordinator.

“This is my first time in the Middle East and I’m looking forward to meeting the club’s members and guests as well as finding ways to further improve their shopping experience at the Royal Golf Club,” comments Jerome.

Hotel Profits Surge Gulf Hotels Group reported an increase in profit by 21 per cent in the first quarter of 2017. Chairman Farouk Y Almoayyed announced that the group has managed to achieve a gross operating revenue of BD9.343 million as against BD8.578 million last year and a net profit of BD3.311 million as against BD2.736 million last year, representing an increase of 21 per cent. He revealed the group’s development strategy which includes expanding the existing hotel portfolio and establishing a number of stand-alone restaurants. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander Other Events

Bahrain PhotoClub and the Financial Development Company thanked their sponsors and all who contributed to the success of the Bahrain Photographic Festival.

Bahrain Bourse organised an orientation session introducing the Bahrain Investment Market to members of the International Advertising Association Bahrain Chapter.

AlMabarrah AlKhalifa Foundation held a graduation ceremony for the first batch of students enrolled in Ithra, a four-year programme aimed at nurturing high school students into community-minded citizens.

The Indonesian Embassy inaugurated the Indonesian Film Festival 2017 at the Bahrain National Museum.

CrediMax held a reception to launch its new Visa Infinite & World Elite MasterCard at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Bahrain Japan Business Friendship Society conducted a seminar on “Recent Business Environment of the Middle East in Japanese Perspective� at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Eton House International Pre-School held an open house at the Fakhro Tower.

The Gulf Hotel Group donated BD2,000 to the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society.

June 2017 123

bystander Other Events

The Gulf Hotels Group donated BD2,000 to the Muharraq Social Welfare Centre.

Al Abraaj Restaurants Group held the opening ceremony of its latest YaSalam! Branch in Al A’ali Mall.

Jawad Business Group celebrated the 30th anniversary of the opening of BHS in Bahrain with a cake-cutting ceremony at the flagship store in Seef Mall.

Edamah Bahrain Real Estate Co signed a Design & Build Contract awarding Vision Development Company the Phase 1 works for the development of Muharraq West - Sa’ada project.

The American Chamber of Commerce hosted a cyber security business networking luncheon at The Capital Club.

Professor Peter Bryant from the IE Business School in Madrid conducted an innovation seminar at the CH9 premises in Amwaj.

The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, HE Zayed Al Zayani, honoured the advisor at the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Dr Ali Follad, for organising the first wedding in line with the strategic tourism strategy 2017-2018 aimed at positioning Bahrain as a wedding destination.

The Rotary Club of Manama, in collaboration with workers at Migrant Workers Protection Society, organised a charity visit to one of the GPZ labour camps in Al Ekr.

The General Federation of Bahrain Trade Union awarded diligent employees from YK Almoayyed & Sons as part of Labour Day celebrations.

Bahrain British Business Forum held its annual general meeting at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa, attended by British Ambassador, HE Simon Martin.

124 April 2017

The Capital Club held a media lunch featuring one Michelin star Spanish chef Paulo Airaudo as part of its celebrity chef series.

Pianist Gianfranco Pappalardo Fiumana and tenor Roberto Cresca performed during an opera recital at the Bahrain National Museum.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bahrain This Month received 98 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Clothes for Compassion takes place at which mall? ______________________________________________ When does the St Chris Community Big Band concert take place? ______________________________________________

Winner : Joyce Fernandes Second Place : Joel Valentine Third Place : Nelson Demenezes

What is the name of Teodor Ardeleanu’s new dojo? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

1. La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 2. Michael Rosen 3. Ray Parlour, Razor Ruddock and John Hartson 4. Natalie Brogan 5. Neolektra 6. May 7 7. An authorised Porsche Exclusive Flagship Dealer 8. El Mercado Mall 9. Chef Paulo Airaudo 10. Primavera, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Who is the Bahrain Yacht Club’s new general manager? ______________________________________________ What type of engine does the Porsche 718 Cayman have? ______________________________________________ Which model has JAC Motors recently launched? ______________________________________________ The BMW Group will be producing the fully electric BMW iNext at which plant in 2021? ______________________________________________

Name:

What is the name of the Ramadan tent at Downtown Rotana? ______________________________________________

Ad Seek:

1. AJM Kooheji Group Bridgestone 2. Wangs

3. Casa Cucina

4. Vesuvio Italian Restaurant Vesuvio

Address: Telephone:

Name the venue at the Golden Tulip that offers Iftar and Ghabga in a non-smoking setting. ______________________________________________

Email: CPR:

What is the name of the restaurant reviewed at the Sofitel Zallaq this month?

Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Rotana_Ramadan2017_BTM_(w)216mmx(h)278mm_ToPress_CS6.pdf 1 4/20/17 Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

8:03 AM

AD Seek

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!

Al Bawadi

ً ‍ ع ا ا‏ ‍ ال ع ن ا‏

From Iftar till 2 Daily during the month

1.

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Join us during the month of Ramadan for an authentic Iftar buet at Swiss-CafÊ Restaurant.

Iftar from sunset till 10:00 pm Rafe draw every weekends Oud music every Thursdays & Fridays Children from 6 to 12 years get 50% discount www.bahrainthismonth.com Free meal for children under 6 years For every 5 paying adults, enjoy 1 free meal

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June 2017 125

tarotscope

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20 You will have much to celebrate this June – especially where family and friends are concerned. The love of those closest to you will go a long way to making you feel secure and comfortable, which is important since you have been suffering a dip in your confidence recently and this will lift your spirits. For those of you celebrating a birthday this month you may be surprised at one particular gift you receive, simply because it will be completely unexpected.

A partner’s poor health may be the only low point but if you can encourage them towards an alternative treatment, both of you may be surprised by the results.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

CANCER June 21 – July 20

You could be party to an amazing stroke of good luck this month as a casual interest in a vacant position at a building firm could see you plunging head first into a new and exciting role. Being blessed with a good business brain means that you are one of the signs made for the hustle and bustle of the corporate world and what is set to unfold for a few of you holds the promise of great things if you persevere and see things through. Where family is concerned, try to bite your tongue to save an argument, no matter how angry a relative’s remarks might make you. Blowing a fuse will upset more people than you can realise.

Card of the Month — The Five of Cups

LEO July 21 – August 21

The actions of a Taurean are set to have a negative impact on you this June as you are hit with a bombshell concerning the state of your personal finances. Matters you thought had been addressed have in fact been left without attendance, and now you will need to take things in your own hands and hope it is not too late to deal with things. Family gatherings are likely to be lively – but not always for the right reasons – so try and keep control of yourself and don’t become too swept away by the party atmosphere. Just because you don’t get out as often as you used to, it doesn’t mean you need to go over the top!

Card of the Month — The Chariot 126 June 2017

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

June is set to be a month of reflection and acceptance as the busy madness of the last few weeks winds down and allows you to look forward to a break in a more relaxed frame of mind. You will finally be able to see beyond the mess of recent months and start to plan for the future in a major way. Top of the list is a possible change of environment as you set a move of house in motion for the latter part of the year – something you were not in a position to engineer previously. Also, worthy of your attention is a current relationship that has undergone a bit of a renaissance and is looking a good bet to get pretty intense again as you both consider taking things a step further.

Card of the Month — The King of Wands

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

This may not turn out to be the best period of your life but if you can see your way through it then you can do so in the knowledge that things will get a lot better towards the end of the year. If the truth be told, 2017 has offered many of you very little to smile about so far but you possess a resilient nature and you are sure to overcome any challenge if you stick to your plans. The promise of a new job and exciting prospects abroad lie ahead and, together with the possibility of a new love interest entering your life, there is a lot to look forward to.

Card of the Month — The Five of Wands

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

Money could be tight this June and you are advised to hold back on the spending – which is always going to be difficult when one considers the many things you need to pay for at the moment. There is every indication that if you stretch yourself now you will pay heavily for it later, especially if you end up spending more than you can afford on your credit card. The best advice you can take is to keep your plastic in your wallet for the next few weeks. If you can swallow your pride and explain your situation to those closest to you, they will understand. Things will improve by late autumn and you may learn a valuable lesson in the process.

Card of the Month — The Two of Pentacles

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

Circumstances at home have forced you into having to play nursemaid throughout June as a partner’s recent illness or operation have left them very reliant upon you. Although their recovery is likely to gather speed in July, you will still be called upon more than usual and you must remember to keep your patience. You’re not one who takes kindly to a well-ordered routine being put out of place but for the immediate future you may have to just accept that certain things will not run as smoothly as usual. On the family front, you may receive a rather surprising request around the 12th of the month, but despite your added pressures, try to help if you can. It will be appreciated.

Card of the Month — The Page of Cups

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21

It seems that you are blind to something many of your friends and relatives can see concerning a partner who appears to have completely ‘bewitched’ you and is leading you into a whole host of trouble for June. Far be it from me to cast aspersions on a relationship, but if there are any of you out there shouldering doubts or niggling concerns about the intentions of a loved one then now is the time to look into them. Most of you will have nothing to worry about but for those of you to whom this reading does apply, just remember that sometimes people on the outside see things very differently, so don’t spurn all the advice you are given.

Card of the Month — The Three of Pentacles www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index AQUARIUS January 22 – February 21

You are regretting a moral slip that you succumbed to last month and now you are finding it difficult to even communicate with the person concerned. However, hiding from your actions is not going to make them go away and, unless you make your feelings known plainly to the individual concerned, you could be letting yourself in for some embarrassing moments over the coming weeks. Harsher critics than I would suggest that having made your bed you’re going to have to lie in it, but unless you do something about matters that may end up being your only option.

So, if you don’t want to have to act with your back against the wall, give yourself room to breathe and act.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Wands

PISCES February 21 – March 20

As the year progresses you will find yourself in a reflective mood, and memories drawn from events over the last few months will occupy your thoughts this June. In particular, the turbulent relationship you have with one individual is set to make you question certain actions and decisions you have made and you might even sense the odd pang of guilt. However, it’s not too late to make amends and, if you feel the need, then offer a hand of friendship and you may be surprised by the response. On the subject of children, those of you concerned about a son’s or daughter’s performance at school will be pleased by the latest reports that show a marked improvement.

Card of the Month — The Three of Cups Half way through the year and you’re already considering significant changes in your life that will have a long-lasting impact. Chief amongst these is the decision to commit or end a current relationship, depending on how things stand in this area. For those of you who have been going through a difficult time and suffering a crisis of confidence in a partner, now could be the time to call it a day and move onto pastures new. Alternatively, if you have been toying with the idea of taking the next major step with a loved one, then breathe in deeply and say the words. You’ll be glad that you did.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Wands One thing is for sure: you are set to be a very different person by the end of this month, compared to the one you are at the start of it. A loved one from the past is about to make a reappearance and this could prove both unsettling and exciting for you as the year reaches its midway point. You will have some serious choices to make, and once you have agreed on them, you need to stick to your decision. There’s no sense in thinking or saying one thing and then doing another. Consider the few weeks leading up to the summer as a test for you. By the time autumn arrives you may be very surprised by what you finally decide upon. Remember, love can capture your heart at the most unexpected of times.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Pentacles

Naomi Campbell

FAMOUS GEMINIS THIS MONTH Prince William

LC Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Max . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Financial Institutions Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Home & Furnishing Aran Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Hotels & Serviced Residences AAl Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . 53 Al Safir Hotel & Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Downtown Rotana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Golden Tulip Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Mercure Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Sheraton Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 33 The Diplomat Radisson BLU Hotel . . 45 The Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Delma) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Asia Jewellers (Dior) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Patek Philippe) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Sharif Group (Smalto) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

TAURUS April 21 – May 20

Nicole Kidman

Hush Puppies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Swiss Belhotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

ARIES March 21 – April 20

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fashion & Footwear

Medical & Dental Services Al Namal & VKL Group of Companies:Middle East Hospital . . . 77 American Mission Hospital . . . . . . . . 47 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Symmetria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 59 Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . 69 Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . . . 23 EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Chery) . . . . . . 25 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Others Al Ghalia Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 19 Al Rashid Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Farhat International Tours & Travel . 27 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Kumar’s Group (K Home & Kitchen) . 21 Rishi Kapoor Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Restaurants & Cafés Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Choox Chicken Coop . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Florence La Maison Mediterraneenne . .

Kazbah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

McDonalds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Reem Al Bawadi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . .

41 39 93 41 81 79 99 83

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

June 2017 127

lastword

Old Man’s Rant GEG HOPKINS Despite Khrushchev, we flower-power, braless, ‘free-love era’ accidents of the ‘60s-‘70s had the best life could offer, with Juicy Lucy to Pink Floyd rock, original filthy jokes, head hair indistinguishable from pubic, Blue Nun, wondering if Harold Wilson was really a commie or did Lyndon B Johnson do it.

White women started going with black men, but not much the other way around, until primitive social media convinced us ‘we’d never go back’.

Now we have fake watches, fake caller IDs, fake emails, fake friends and ‘Fake News’.

Endless, inane and repetitive ‘Fakebook’ posts which is worse than fake orgasms. Yes! You pretend agreement to your friends by giving them ‘Likes’, answering yawning post which ask if you can answer or match five out of 10 questions or scenarios, so now you are asking yourself how many of the above you’ve experienced. Oh really? Was it Oscar-worthy?

The never-never land ‘millennial’ phantasm brats of today are optimistically blind believing we are heading for better things. It is hip to be radical and destructive but blame everyone else. They would rather cull wise foxes or club seals than useless human proliferation which now swamps us. Back in the ‘60s hippies had 128 June 2017

‘love ins’, ‘together ins’ and even ‘wad ins’ whatever that was. One favourite old joke was the guy walks into a library and asks for a list of standard novels, which were not available, so a little exasperated snapped at the hippy librarian; ‘What about Dickens?, to which she replied; ‘I don’t know, I’ve never been to one’.

You feel empowered by posting pro Jeremy Corbin like ideology and anything anti-Trump all over Facebook because you think you are influential. You believe you are abstractly more intelligent than selfish reality, which you abhor as amoral capitalism? Your attitude is your God given right to impose ‘your’ dogma and indeed sexual appetite on the rest of the world and have a posse of kids who you will condition and whose welfare you fully believe everyone else should support. Fair enough! Maybe you should write a monthly column for a magazine then.

Once you radicals are potty trained into ‘reality’, perhaps you will actually question this constant, perverted media brainwashing, get off your fake moral arses and contribute by parting with your own hard-earned dosh to feed this demented ‘I deserve – you owe me’ ‘churn ‘em out’ ideology of equality. What you support contributes nothing back and will eventually drain all resources until we physically eat each other.

Radical ‘ANYTHING’ is a cerebral-cortex

sickness more prevalent than Ebola. Just look at the state of some countries today steeped in ideology gone viral. Victims of hunger are fawned over pinning blame on the buoyant. In our first world, victims of heinous crime have no say, no rights, yet perpetrators are heroes and mollycoddled. It is all so ‘Twin Peaks’ like – where he says; ‘The urge to be bad is so overwhelming’.

‘It really is a sin to be white now’. This perverted ideology, bloated and obsessive Political Correctness (PC) tries so hard to kill off humour, forcing us into oblivious delusion. It’s like the ‘free world’ is now emulating the Third World for control with apologists and appeasers taking us back. We can no longer make simple puns without fear of media wrath and parrots regurgitating a lynching or receiving heavy fines or jail just for being funny.

Even the dearly loved ‘double entendre’ has been relegated to the; ‘That’s so offensive’ filthy cesspit of unacceptable dalliances, yet TV and films propagate more filth, violence and despicable language. Homosexuality is taught in schools at age five. Nobody is ‘allowed’ to argue. Thankfully in Bahrain we are still in the ‘60s PC-wise and by default, religion is wholly partisan and indeed racist in so many ways, yet cosmopolitan personified at the same time.

Sure, most language puns will go high over the abaya or ghutra, but don’t underestimate the humour! Can you imagine, somewhere in Europe, a Bahraini accidentally walking into a multi-racial Lesbian bar called ‘Quality Street’?

There in glorious colour is a poster proclaiming ‘Clitoris Allsorts’ and curiosity becomes an urge. A butch Martina Navratidykeski bars him at the door exclaiming; ‘We are lesbians’! In broken English, he’d retort; ‘I am from Bahrain, which part of Lesbainia are you from’?

If you think that’s bad or risqué, 14th century ideology would have got you headless just for suggesting the world was round, despite Facebook telling us that it could not be flat or cats would push everything off it. Bawdy saucy Chaucer with his ‘Canterbury Tales’ certainly pushed buttons and more with his classic double entendre ‘Queynte’ being used throughout. Utterly lost on 21st century society, but then it meant women’s work as well as slang for their genitalia. Who’d have thought? If you say it fast, you see where today’s word comes from.

Oh yes, Charlie Dickens would have no doubt parodied his own name had Dicken’s Cider been invented during his time. As it was, who on earth would now dream of calling a character ‘Master Bates’ in a TV series or novel, as he did in Oliver Twist? www.bahrainthismonth.com