Bahrain This Month - March 2016 by Red House Marketing

AIR CONDITIONER FEATURE | FURNITURE FEATURE | BUFFET AND BRUNCH FEATURE

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

WIN

Sky Dinner for two with Bin Faqeeh (Refer to page 50)

Spring of Culture

A residential wonder and a family retreat

The big festival is back with lots of top-notch entertainment

Interviews

• Director-General of Traffic, Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa • Guitar virtuosos Rodrigo Y Gabriela

March 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 3

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 223

Contents March 2016 COVER STORY Scaling New Heights

50-51

Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company rolls out the blueprint of its extraordinary project in style.

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of March 2016:

24-34

A Cultural Extravaganza:

The much anticipated Spring of Culture is back featuring a variety of top-notch entertainment. 36

Visions of a Painter:

A solo exhibition ‘Abstract Expressionism’ sees the return of Iraqi artist Ghassan Muhsin to Bahrain. 40 Mickey

Mouse Comes to Town:

Everyone’s favourite Disney character will make his debut on the island as the spectacular live show arrives in the Kingdom this month.

After Dark:

Grand Prix Opening Party:

Dance DJ collective Major Lazer comes to the island to kick off the Formula 1 weekend.

48-49

Balkan Party:

The second round of the big Balkan Party targeting the eastern European crowd in Bahrain will be held.

INTERVIEWS Driving Ahead with New Rules

The Kingdom’s stringent new traffic laws are in effect and BTM catches up with the Director-General of the Traffic Directorate, Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, to find out more.

Set to Rock Bahrain!

Guitar virtuosos Rodrigo y Gabriela are set to perform this month. BTM finds out more.

Racing to Victory

Veteran racer Shaikh Jaber bin Ali Al Khalifa has high hopes for Team Bahrain during the sixth and final round of the GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East.

54 Bystander This month our Bystander pages recorded the 66th Anniversary of India’s Republic Day. We attended the opening of the Gulf Industry Fair and the Asdal Gulf Inn. We celebrated Valentine’s Day, a Brazilian carnival and went to the Bin Faqeeh Breaker and Homes handover.

A Recipe for Success

A new cookie company has opened its doors in the Kingdom. BTM chats with man behind the munchies.

Success by Design

Award-winning Bahraini architect Ala Eddin Mansour, co-founder of Design Studio – Architects told Liz O’Reilly about the ethos that has seen one of his projects named ‘World’s Best’.

Young Achievers

Students of the British School of Bahrain will be taking part in the Global Round of the World Scholar’s Cup in Thailand.

A Heart full of Hope

In an age when young minds are consumed by their gizmos, young Adam Kadia uses his pen to spread the word of peace in the world.

Motoring: www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2015 9

Issue 223

Contents March 2016 63

Revisiting an Old Friend :

The new Volkswagen Passat has arrived in Bahrain. Charlie Holding takes it for a spin. 66

A Global Hybrid Icon:

Prius marks its maiden entry into the Middle East. 70 A

Racy Little Number!:

Following a comprehensive upgrade, this model opens up a new dimension in vehicle dynamics.

Sports cars: 75 Life

in the Fast Lane!:

BTM rounds up the latest deals and offerings in the sports vehicle sector in the Kingdom. 76 Italian

Innovation at Its Finest:

BTM reviews the Maserati GTS.

Downtime:

Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 80 Music: Top Tunes 82 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 83 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 84 Apps: Essential apps 85 Movies: New releases 79

FEATURES Home furnishing: 86-94

Feel at Home

BTM reveals ways to make your home reflect your personality without breaking the bank.

Air Conditioners: 95-100

101

109

Chill Out:

We’ve rounded up some of the Kingdom’s leading air conditioner companies who either already stock or are in the process of launching energy-compliant products.

Buffets and Brunches: 101-108

Spoilt For Choice:

This month we bring you the best buffets in Bahrain where you can feast like there’s no tomorrow. 109

Dining:

Garden of Five Senses:

A blend of 21st Century avant-garde and ancient Japanese mysticism, Bushido offers a lot more than just fine dining. 120-121

123

Dining Happenings

Showcase:

What’s New: Must-have products 124-143 Marketplace: Latest products and services 123

Regulars: 149 WIN

WIN Tarotscope 151 AD Index 152 Last Word

150

79 www.bahrainthismonth.com

123

March 2015 11

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month March 2016

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Marketing & Electronic Media Director Deepa Siva Editor Charlie Holding Commercial Editor Apple Sharma Assistant Editor Ankita Mamgain Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel Photography Editor Zilia Monteiro Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

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

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

•

Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3

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Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

COVER Cover Picture:

Bin Faqeeh’s ‘Layan’ AIR CONDITIONER FEATURE | FURNITURE FEATURE | BUFFET AND BRUNCH FEATURE

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

WIN

Sky Dinner for two with Bin Faqeeh (Refer to page 50)

Spring of Culture

A residential wonder and a family retreat

The big festival is back with lots of top-notch entertainment • Director-General of Traffic, Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa • Guitar virtuosos Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

Interviews

March 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 3

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Spring is definitely in the air this month as we gear up to the 13th Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix taking place on 1-2-3 April 2016. It’s certainly an exciting time to be in the Kingdom with the continuation of the 11th edition of the Spring of Culture Festival programme featuring an impressive array of multi-cultural events and activities, lectures, exhibitions and performances bringing together musicians, artists, writers and performers from across the globe. In addition to the above, Bahrain’s public will be treated to various spectacles including a culinary circus, dancing graffiti, origami and storytelling events due to take place in various public areas. Our cover story this month features Bin Faqeeh’s extraordinary new development at Durrat Marina at the southern tip of the island. ‘Layan’, the haven of hedonism presents a remarkable opportunity for investors and residents to explore new horizons in a complex which boasts its own water park complete with slides emanating from some of the premium apartments. Interviews this month include a candid discussion with Director-General of the Traffic Directorate, Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, concerning the new traffic regulations enforced at the beginning of last month. Unlike certain other countries in the region, Bahrain’s objective in this regard is to save lives rather than increase revenue yields from traffic violations. You have been warned! Guitar virtuosos Rodrigo y Gabriela are set to perform at Arad Fort as part of the Spring of Culture Festival and BTM finds out more about them in this exclusive interview. A pioneering air force aviator and motor racing industry aficionado, veteran racer Shaikh Jaber bin Ali Al Khalifa has high hopes for Team Bahrain during the sixth and final round of the GT3 Cup Challenge. He talks to us about his racing history and plans for the future. Our regular motoring roundup includes write-ups and reviews on the most compelling sports cars available in the kingdom and looks at the fourth generation Toyota Prius, which marked its maiden entry into the Middle East market only a fortnight ago. The new Volkswagen Passat is also put through its paces. Our consumer reports on air-conditioners, furniture and the best places to enjoy buffets and brunches complete this month’s lineup. Enjoy the entertainment, enjoy the lifestyle, enjoy living in your own haven of tranquility also known as one of the world’s best kept secrets – Bahrain. As always, let BTM be your guide to a great way of life!

Lifestyle

Dining

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

Nightlife

March 2016 13

bystander

Gulf Industry Fair Opens His Royal Highness, The Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, inaugurated the Gulf Industry Fair 2016 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. The event, which was organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions, was attended by government officials, ambassadors, businessmen and guests. The Premier cuts the opening ribbon

HE William Roebuck, Alexander & Irina

Abdulaziz Bin Hindi & Saleh Tahir

George & Momen

HE Simon Martin & Igor

Khalil Shakib, Ebrahim Ameer & Fawzi Kanoo

Jalil Al Ansari & HE Mohammed Ali Siraj

Ali Najjar & Ahmed Najjar

HE Hatun Demirer & Ronnie Middleton

Rashid Al Zayani, Mohammed Al Rafae, Nawaf Al Zayani & Emam Jalal

Mohammed Juma, Abdulla Juma & HE Dr A. Saj U. Mendis

14 March 2016

Ahmed Bin Hindi & Shaikh Mohammed

Samir Aldarabi

Majid Al Zayani

Abdulrahman Juma & Faisal Juma

HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Khalid Al Zayani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Mr Ramani & Chithra

Indian Republic Day

HE Alok Kumar Sinha and Mamta Sinha hosted the 66th Republic Day Anniversary celebrations at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa. The event was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, businessmen and invited guests. Dignitaries cut the cake

Sanjay & Radhika

Abhinav, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Mamta & Amrisha

Wedad & Jehan

HE Dr Dhafer Jalil Ansari & HE Kiyoshi Asako

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre, Geila & Khalid

Johari, Mohammed & Kagaraj

K N Singh, Preethi, Kamboj & Bisht

16 March 2016

The Indian School band performed led by Haji Paul

Vijay, Shabbir, Sulfikar & Malim

Abdulla Yousif & HE Kadri Al Sayeh

Romina & Ann

Ram, Dr Cherian & Dr Mukesh

HE Abdulla bin Rashid, HE Ahmed Khattabi & Waheed Sayyar

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Brazilian Carnival

Carnaval Bloco 338, the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Brazilian party, returned for a third year, held at the Amwaj Marina.

Valeria, Marise, Alessandra, Sergio, Ires & Reem

Erica, DJ Costa & Perla

Leo, Fuleco & Alessandra

Bella & Isabella

Michel, Sara & Bas

Julia & Daniela

Paula S., Paula Ana, Katja & Susie

Alex, Mustafa, Jana, Abbas & Ali

Raya & Rania

Hunter & Klara

Renata, Stella & Karina

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Dr Amy & Sven

Julia, Ameer & Melyse

Hana, Marcia & Dana

Serena, Faiz & Fifi

Erica & Maria

Michelle, Aisling & Gui

Gaby & Luis

Zuhair & Christina

Fernando & Ricardo

Michael, Adrian & Rohan

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Fahad & Nadia

Rojen & Jaffar

Emad & Nizar

The Breaker Handover Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company held a ceremony to hand over keys to homeowners at The Breaker residential tower in Seef. Ishaq, Abdulrahman Alkoheji & Michael

Mazin

Mohammed

Bonnie, Rojen, Abdulrahman Alkoheji, Adel, Sadique, Mohamed & Jaffar

Raj

Randa

Farid & Abdulrahman Alkoheji

Nadia & Nizar

Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company held the handover ceremony of its luxury

The Homes Handover residential complex project, The Homes, in Hamala, to a property management company, Real Search SPC.

Hina, Fatima, Nizar, Abdulrahman Alkoheji, Jafar, Bonnie & Juna

Mohammed

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Umabathy

Bikki

Ramachandran

Shabbir & Rojen

Fatema & Faisal

Mohamed & Ayman

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The freshest catch from the local fishermen every Thursday night! Get hooked on seafood from the Arabian Gulf at Bahrain Bay Kitchen. The restaurant will lure all seafood lovers with an authentic seafood dinner “Fisherman’s Night” every Thursday. Featuring an extensive seafood buffet, diners are invited to choose fresh delicacies from the tempting seafood bar, the smoked fish as well as the sushi and nigiri stations. Live music, live cooking stations and the freshest catch every Thursday from 7 pm, all for BHD 21++ excluding beverages. Reservations: +973 1711 5500 fourseasons.com/bahrain

bystander

Rania & Suhair Al Rayes

Khalid Al Rayes

Parfume Launch Al Sharif Group opened a new store, Parfume, at Enma Mall. Management at the ribbon-cutting ceremony

Hanoof, Fatema, Mohammed & Manar

Mohammed Ismael & Jassim

Shaker

Tariq & Ali Al Rayes

Khalid

Saleem Elias & Khalid Al Amadi

Philippe, Rodolphe & Carla

Bassem & Waleed

Alliance Française Opening A grand ceremony was held to open the newly renovated premises of the Alliance Française Bahrain, in the presence of HE Bernard RégnauldFabre, French Ambassador, Khalid Fakhro, president of Alliance Française and Rodolphe Melki, president of Bahraini French Business Club. The ribbon-cutting

Christina, Bahia & Bernadette

22 March 2015

Ahmad & Christophe

Rashid & Philippo

HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre & Isa

Julian & Reem

Laurent, Pascal, Herve & Gwenael

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HAPPENINGS

A CULTURAL EXTRAVAGANZA One of Bahrain’s most prominent festivals returns with 40-plus events across the island. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD

The much anticipated Spring of Culture (SOC) is back featuring a variety of top-notch entertainment. It is organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Economic Development Board and Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research, in collaboration with Albareh Art Gallery, Al Riwaq Art Space and La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. Now, in its

When? March 5 Event? Gregory Porter Concert Venue? Arad Fort

Singer and songwriter Gregory Porter will delight fans with his powerhouse jazz performance. The New York Times describes him as “a jazz singer of thrilling presence, a booming baritone with a gift for earthy refinement and soaring uplift”. He is famous for his album Liquid Spirit, winning the 2014 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album, and the artist recently received his second Jazz FM award for International Jazz Artist of the Year. The event starts at 8.30pm and minimum age requirement is eight years.

11th edition, the festival runs until April, with 10 weeks of exciting, award-winning shows and activities catering to a broad spectrum of tastes. Alongside an array of multicultural events, lectures and exhibitions, the festival will also feature the all-new Spring of Culture Pop-Up street shows such as a culinary circus, dancing graffiti, origami and storytelling, taking place in various public areas.

When? March 9 Event? Kadim Al Sahir Concert Venue? Arad Fort After a soldout event in 2013, ‘The Caesar of Arabic music’, Kadim Al Sahir returns to Arad Fort, to excite the audience with his favourite hits as well as songs from his latest album. Achieving the highest attended Arabic concert of all time, with an audience of 100,000, this true pan-Arab, international, multi-talented and multi-award-winning artist continues to romance the world with his music. The event starts at 8.30pm and minimum age requirement is eight years.

When? March 17 Event? Carmen Secondo L’Orchestra di Piazza Vittorio Venue? Arad Fort 24 March 2016

The SOC’s outreach programme has flourished over the past decade and it continues to invest in developing the talents of young Bahrainis by running specialised workshops and educational events. The programme has a unique range of activities. Become part of it by registering through the assigned contacts on the education page of the SOC website.

When? March 11 Event? Kaash – Akram Khan Company Venue? Arad Fort

Fourteen years ago, Akram Khan teamed up with the celebrated talents of Anish Kapoor and Nitin Sawhney to present Kaash, his company’s first fulllength work, which awarded him the title of the most acclaimed choreographer of his generation. Hindu Gods, black holes, Indian time cycles, tablas, creation and destruction were the starting points for this work. In this show revival, the five-strong cast of international performers will shed new light and energy on the piece. Kaash (the Hindi word for “if only”) continues Akram Khan’s quest to build bridges between the worlds of contemporary dance and the Indian classical dance form Kathak. The event starts at 8.30pm and minimum age requirement is eight years.

Twenty-three musicians, dancers and singers from 10 countries with different mother tongues, transform their variegated roots and cultures into one single language: music. Following the success of its Magic Flute production, the orchestra gives a romantic and dreamy treatment to George Bizet’s Carmen. In the midst of companies of gypsies arriving in the city and happy soldiers, Don José and his Brazilian rhythms face off against Escamillo and his Arabic melodies to win the love of the eccentric Carmen. The show is produced by Accademia Filarmonica Romana, Vagabundos and Teatro Olimpico. There will also be a screening of an awardwinning documentary about the Orchestra on March 1 at the Bahrain Fort Museum at 7pm. The event starts at 8.30pm and minimum age requirement is eight years. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? March 18-19 Event? Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales Venue? Alumni Club Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-loved titles: Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze. Brought to you by the award-winning Scamp Theatre, funky moves, toe-tapping tunes and giggles are guaranteed and make for the perfect treat for kids aged three to 12. Timings are 10.30am and 4pm. All attendees must have a ticket.

When? March 24 Event? Seal Concert Venue? Arad Fort

When? March 27-28 Event? Hotel Paradiso Venue? Cultural Hall

The Berlin-based masters of mask theatre bring their hilarious tale of a family hotel set in an Alpine resort that is struggling to keep the business alive and the corpses hidden. In this wordless play, everyone has a secret to hide. Watch out for the chef with a penchant for human flesh and the kleptomaniac maid in this cross between Fawlty Towers and the Bates Motel. The event starts at 8pm and minimum age requirement is eight years.

When? March 31 Event? Rodrigo Y Gabriela Venue? Arad Fort

Since the beginning of his career, London-born, multi-platinum singer-songwriter Seal has been focused on a single creative pursuit: expressing the full experience of love through song. His inimitable voice was first heard on Adamski’s 1991 club smash Killer, followed by his Top 10 hit Crazy. On the heels of his stunning debut album, he went on to win the prestigious BRIT Award for Best British Male in 1992, while hits like Kiss From a Rose, memorably included in the Batman Forever soundtrack, earned him multiple Grammy awards and global esteem. With worldwide album sales exceeding 30 million, Seal puts on a performance like no other. This will be an evening filled with old hits and new music from his album Seal 7, which reunites him with his long-time collaborator, producer Trevor Horn. The event starts at 8.30pm and minimum age requirement is eight years. 26 March 2016

Internationally acclaimed Mexican duo, Rodrigo y Gabriela simply tear into their acoustic guitars. Get ready for a sizzling night out as they rip through the Arad Fort with frenetic energy and rhythmic intensity. Blending rock, metal and world music with their own Mexican vibes, these two outstanding guitarists deliver a highly energetic performance, combining their own hits Tamacun and Hanuman with wonderful covers of Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven, Metallica’s Orion, or Radiohead’s Creep. The event starts at 8.30pm and minimum age requirement is eight years.

When? April 7-9 Event? Flown Venue? Arad Fort Pirates of the Carabina is an internationally acclaimed contemporary circus company known for its daring and beautifully choreographed aerial theatre. Bold and breath-taking, its award-winning show, Flown, tells the tale of a motley crew of acrobats, aerialists, stuntmen and musicians, all trying to get a show on the road. It is packed with thrills, laughs and extraordinary physical feats, all set to an original live soundtrack. The show starts at 7.30pm and minimum age requirement is four years. All attendees must have a ticket. When? April 8-9 Event? Chaos in the Town Venue? Alumni Club The play’s story starts as Mantoor the garbagecollecting donkey goes missing and the town is taken over by a mountain of stinky, disgusting rubbish! The children don’t come out to play, the foul smelling streets are filled with flies and the grown-ups are hiding inside their homes and complaining. That is, until Tamer, a brave and thoughtful boy, decides to get to the bottom of the mess. His adventures lead him to the hardworking donkey Mantoor and together they discover the importance of kindness, co-operation, friendship and community; but can they save the town? This Bahraini production is an adaptation of stories by author Fatima Sharafeddine and is performed in Arabic. The show timings are 10.30am and 4pm. All attendees must have a ticket, and minimum age requirement is three years.

Tickets are sold online through www.springofculture.org and City Centre Bahrain, Entrance 1 Call 39 900-630 for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE When? Throughout March Event? Mohammed bin Faris Venue? Mohammed bin Faris Music Hall Set sail with the musical sounds of Mohammed bin Faris Band. This lyrical voyage includes festive melodies, working songs and farewell ballads describing the tales of a pearling diver’s life. In the past 13 years since its establishment, the band has travelled the world to introduce Bahrain’s soulful musical identity through the traditional arts. The event starts at 8pm and is held every Thursday from March 3 onwards. Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? March 1-31 Event? Other Homelands Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Resmi Al Kafaji demonstrates the universality of art through a rich blend of memories interpreted in many different styles. He believes art has no national boundaries and that it must either ask a question or stem from emotion. Reflecting his own personal evolution, Resmi’s art continues to evolve from realistic to abstract, and now to video. The exhibition opening, on March 1, starts at 7pm and thereafter every Saturday to Thursday from 10am-2pm and 4pm-8pm. Visit www.albareh.com. When? March 4 Event? Fado Concert by Liana Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

28 March 2016

When? March 3 Event? Halİt Ergenç Venue? Bahrain National Theatre Halİt Ergenç, known for his starring role as Suleyman the Magnificent in the widely popular Turkish historical drama series Hareem Al Sultan, is also a gifted singer who will demonstrate his spectacular vocal prowess in what is sure to be a memorable musical evening. Music will be provided by the Cinema Symphony Orchestra with conductor Serdar Yalçın. The event starts at 8pm and the minimum age requirement is 10 years. Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 3-5 Event? The Yelling Kitchen Prince Venue? Nakheel Centre (Saar), Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park (Hidd), Bahrain Fort (Beach Area) Crazy energy will fill the air as Dutch artist Bram Graafland makes music and food in a show that is a visual, acoustic and fragrant experience. It merges culinary circus, a rock concert and theatrical arts all in one, as Bram makes fresh music and pancakes in a kitchen built round an old 1970s’ keyboard! On March 3, the show will be held at Nakheel Centre (Saar) at 4pm and 7pm; on March 4, at Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park (Hidd) at 5pm and 8pm; and on March 5, at Bahrain Fort (Beach Area) at 11am and 5pm. Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. One of Portugal’s leading Fado singers, Liana has several albums to her name. She sang with the critically acclaimed world-music band The Stockholm Lisboa Project and played Fado diva Amalia Rodrigues in Portugal’s most successful musical play to date. With her varied repertoire accompanied by Portuguese and classical guitars, her beautiful, resonant voice and passionate delivery will make for a spellbinding performance under the stars at this spectacular venue. The concert starts at 8pm and tickets are priced at BD20 for the concert and BD30 for concert with dinner. Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

When? Throughout March Event? Mohammed bin Faris Venue? Mohammed bin Faris Music Hall E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? Ongoing – March 20 Event? Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition 42 Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 80 008-089, visit www.facebook.com/culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @culturebah. When? Ongoing – April 15 Event? Exhibition: Magnificent Maharajah Splendour of Indian Royal Costumes Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 1-31 Event? Exhibition: Other Homelands Venue? Albareh Art Gallery E Visit www.albareh.com. When? March 2 Event? Artist Talk: Abdul Karim Al-Orrayed Venue? Art Centre Al-Orrayed, who belongs to a pioneer generation of Bahraini artists, will give a lecture as part of the ‘Artist Talk’ series, at 7pm. E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 3 Event? Concert: Halt Ergenç Venue? Bahrain National Theatre E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 3-5 Event? Street Theatre: The Yelling Kitchen Prince Venue? Nakheel Center (Saar), Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park (Hidd), Bahrain Fort (Beach Area) E Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. When? March 4 Event? Fado Concert by Liana Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net. When? March 5 Event? Concert: Gregory Porter Venue? Arad Fort E Call 39 900-630.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE When? March 5-April 5 Event? Identity Borders Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Under the patronage of HH Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Al Riwaq invited the semi-finalists from the art Bahrain/The Nest Annual Art Prize 2015 to create a group exhibition. It reflects their vision of a Bahraini identity in the face of the many transitions that have shaped the country in social and cultural contexts over the past decade. Through this exhibit, Al Riwaq aims to continue to develop emerging artists. The opening, on March 5, will be at 7pm and thereafter every day from 10am-10pm. Visit www.alriwaqartspace.com. March 8 Event? Rima Khcheich - Tribute to Sabah Venue? Cultural Hall Rima Khcheich and her music ensemble perform a moving tribute to the legendary Lebanese singer Sabah. The show revives the greatest and most beloved hits from her Egyptian and Lebanese repertoire by some of the best composers of her era such as Mohammed Abdel Wahab, Sayed Mekawy and Farid Al-Atrash. The event starts at 8pm and the minimum age requirement is eight years. Visit www.rimakhcheich.com

When? March 10 and 12 Event? Bandart Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space, Bahrain Fort Museum

When? March 5-April 5 Event? Exhibition: Identity Borders Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E Visit www.alriwaqartspace.com.

Combining media and dancing, artists Katalin Lengyel and Szabolcs Tóth-Zs celebrate women’s strengths and dreams, coinciding with International Women’s Day. Especially designed for the festival, this performance art piece is deep and symbolic as well as fun and exciting. Both shows start at 7.30pm and will be held at the Al Riwaq Art Space on March 10 and at the Bahrain Fort Museum on March 12. Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org.

When? March 7 Event? Poetry: Badia Kashgari Female Rituals Venue? House of Poetry Ebrahim Al Arrayed Saudi poet Badia Kashgari will recites poems that speak of the love, hope and pain she carries, at 8pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? March 11-12 Event? Image Theatre - The Best of Image Venue? Cultural Hall Based on distinguished Czech tradition in the genres of black theatre, pantomime and modern dance, the worldrenowned group, The Image Theatre, showcases the best original dance and magic compositions and comic sketches from its past and current works. The show starts at 5pm at the Cultural Hall and the minimum age requirement is six years. Visit www.imagetheatre.cz.

When? March 16-April 25 Event? Sleeping Cats Venue? Busaad Art Gallery Ebrahim BuSaad, a Bahraini artist, exhibits works that explore themes of infidelity and betrayal, which were drawn over a period of three years. The artworks are inspired by the famously fickle nature of cats as well as the artist’s own memories of growing up in old Muharraq with its close-knit community and unique architecture. The opening, on March 16, is at 8pm and thereafter every Saturday to Thursday from 9am-1pm and 4pm-8pm. Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. 30 March 2016

When? March 8 Event? Rima Khcheich - Tribute to Sabah Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit www.rimakhcheich.com. When? March 9 Event? Concert: Kadim Al Sahir Venue? Arad Fort E Call 39 900-630. When? March 10 and 12 Event? Street Theatre: Bandart Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space, Bahrain Fort Museum E Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. When? March 11 Event? Dance: Kaash – Akram Khan Company Venue? Arad Fort E Call 39 900-630. When? March 11-12 Event? Image Theatre The Best of Image Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit www.imagetheatre.cz. When? March 14 Event? Lecture by Anne Radice & Iris Love: Knidos & Aphrodite and Collections, Preservation and Respect for World Cultures. Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Center For Culture & Research The two lectures complement each other in presenting different aspects of ancient art and its central role in the story of world civilisation. Event starts at 8pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

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Spice up your life every Monday evening! Grab your amigos and kick back with some guacamole and discover the vibrant, mouthwatering world of Mexican cuisine and beverages at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay! Bahrain Bay Kitchen restaurant will hold a colourful Fiesta Mexicana including a buffet with all your Mexican favourites; from an appealing ceviche station to a wide variety of tacos, fajitas and quesadillas, ending with Mexican ice cream. Slip on your sombrero and enjoy authentic Mexican music, all for just BHD 18++! Its â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;viva la fiestaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; every Monday at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay - the heart of the new downtown! Reservations: +973 1711 5500 fourseasons.com/bahrain

happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE When? March 17-18 Event? Leila El Kebira Venue? Cultural Hall Told in an honest and humorous style that incorporates Arab and Western music ensembles and song, El-Leila El-Kebira (meaning “The Big Night”), one of the colloquial poet Salah Jaheen’s greatest works, follows a number of colourful characters as they attend the popular celebrations of walis (holy people) commonly held across Egypt. The artists will also perform pieces from several ballet acts. The show starts at 8pm and the minimum age requirement is 10 years. Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 17-18 Event? Green Caravan Film Festival Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space The Green Caravan Film Festival will include a variety of cultural offerings, such as Middle Eastern shorts along with a powerful international feature-length documentary, complemented by discussion panels and Q&A sessions. The event will be held from 10am-10pm. Visit www.thegreencaravan.com or www.alriwaqartspace.com.

When? March 21 Event? Arab Poetry Day Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Centre for Culture & Research The Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Centre for Culture and Research, in cooperation with the Arab Organisation for Education, Culture and Science and the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage, will organise a symposium about the poetry of Nizar Qabbani. The event, hosted by the Arab Regional Centre, will conclude with a concert hosted by the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre featuring the artist Jahida Heba, with the participation of Amani bin Tara singing a selection of Qabbani’s most beloved works. The event starts at 6.30 pm. Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? March 22 Event? Classical Movie Night - Qasr El-Shouq Venue? Bahrain National Musuem A treat for film buffs, this nostalgic screening of the 1967 big screen adaptation of Qasr El-Shouq (Palace of Passion) is the second part of the classic trilogy by the late great Egyptian novelist and Nobel Prize for Literature recipient Naguib Mahfouz. The film stars the late Egyptian movie actor Nour El-Sherif in his first leading role. The screening starts at 8pm and the minimum age requirement is eight years. Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

When? March 24-April 3 Event? 17th Bahrain International Book Fair Venue? Bahrain National Museum The 17th Bahrain International Book Fair is a biennial event that showcases both foreign and Arab publishers and booksellers in all subject areas under one roof. It aims to encourage readers of all ages, interests and levels to experience the joys of reading. The guest exhibitor of honour, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, will have a large stand in addition to a cultural programme, which will be announced on the website. The fair will be held daily from 9am-1pm and 32 March 2016

4.30pm-9.30pm, except on Fridays from 4pm-10pm. Visit www.bookfair.bh.

When? March 16-April 25 Event? Sleeping Cats Venue? Busaad Art Gallery E Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. When? March 17-18 Event? Theatre: Leila El Kebira Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 17 Event? Theatre: Carmen Secondo L’Orchestra di Piazza Vittorio Venue? Arad Fort E Call 39 900-630. When? March 17-18 Event? Green Caravan Film Festival Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E www.thegreencaravan.com or www.alriwaqartspace.com. When? March 18-19 Event? Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales Venue? Alumni Club E Call 39 900-630. When? March 20 Event? Poetry: Gamal Bekheet Mesaharati of the Arabs Venue? Bahrain National Museum Auditorium An enjoyable evening of poems that ranges from the profound to the lighthearted by prominent Egyptian poet Gamal Bekheet. The event starts at 8pm. E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 21 Event? Arab Poetry Day Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Centre For Culture & Research E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? March 21 Event? Lecture by Khalid Kishtainy: Sumer, The First Crib of Democracy Venue? Abdullah Al-Zayed For Bahraini Press Heritage This London-based Iraqi writer is known for his satirical columns in Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper on Middle East affairs and as a virtuoso artist. The event starts at 8pm. E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org. When? March 22 Event? Classical Movie Night: Qasr El-Shouq Venue? Bahrain National Musuem E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

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happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE When? March 24-April 3 Event? Khalid Khreis: Dialogue of the Dot Venue? Art Centre Reflecting observations inspired by what goes on around us and the artist’s own outlook on the universe and life, Jordanian artist Dr Khalid Khreis shows his inventiveness in his 16th exhibition. His works focus on the element of ‘people’ expressed as saturated crowds made up of varied repetitive dots. The opening, on March 24, is at 7pm and thereafter daily from 9am-8pm, except on Fridays from 4.30pm-8pm. Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 24 Event? Mohamed Mohsen: Voice of Past & Present Venue? Cultural Hall With the titles of Best Arab Singer in the Jordan Awards Festival and Best Young Singer in Egypt, on the strength of his debut album Roaming Your Streets, singer and composer, Mohamed Mohsen, gives a superb concert with his authentic voice and contemporary take on the Egyptian song repertoire. The show starts at 8pm and the minimum age requirement is eight years. Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

When? March 25-June 25 Event? Nowhere - Basher Alhroub Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Nowhere is an art exhibition by Palestinian visual artist Basher Alhroub that depicts open, white or golden spaces intensely raising the question of being without a homeland or a house. It explores the notions of being a refugee from political or economic conditions imposed by war or life; of being a material to media reports topping television or newspapers; or being in an alternative fragile place and living the idea of the temporary from generation to generation. The artist’s work portrays homeless children lost in the whiteness of nowhere. On the exhibition’s opening night, there will also be a dinner concert by a five-member Bahraini group, based around the GCC, who will perform Latin American music such as cha cha, bolero, merengue and salsa. The event starts at 8pm on March 25 and tickets are priced at BD30 for exhibition, concert and dinner, with a 10per-cent discount on tickets purchased before March 20. From March 26, the exhibition is open every Tuesday to Sunday from 10am-6.30pm. Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

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When? March 24-April 3 Event? Exhibition: Khalid Khreis Dialogue of the Dot Venue? Art Centre E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 24 Event? Concert: Seal Venue? Arad Fort E Call 39 900-630. When? March 24 Event? Concert: Mohamed Mohsen Voice of Past & Present Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit www.culture.gov.bh. When? March 24-26 Event? Origami Storyteller: Ossama Helmy (OzOz) Venue? Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park (Hidd), City Centre Bahrain Entrance 1, Amwaj Lagoon, Bahrain Fort (Beach Area) E Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org. When? March 25-June 25 Event? Exhibition: Nowhere Basher Alhroub Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or www.lafontaineartcentre.net. When? March 27-28 Event? Hotel Paradiso Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 24-26 Event? Origami Storyteller: Ossama Helmy (OzOz) Venue? Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park (Hidd), City Centre Bahrain Entrance 1, Amwaj Lagoon, Bahrain Fort (Beach Area) The origamist Ossama Helmy (OzOz) from the Arab Origami Centre takes us on a magical ride, setting free children’s imaginations by telling stories through origami. According to the sequence of events in each story, one squared piece of paper is changed and altered into different shapes to take us from one place, character and story to another. On March 24, the event will be held at Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park (Hidd) at 5pm; on March 25 at City Centre Bahrain (Entrance 1) at 2pm and at Amwaj Lagoon at 5pm; on March 26 at City Centre Bahrain (Entrance 1) at midday and at Bahrain Fort (Beach Area) at 5pm. Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org.

When? March 24-April 3 Event? 17th Bahrain International Book Fair Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Visit www.bookfair.bh.

When? March 28 Event? Concert: TriOrient Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Center for Culture & Research E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? March 28 Event? TriOrient Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Centre for Culture & Research A brilliant music trio of Lebanese sisters, Ronza, Amal and Fadia, combine their vocal talents to form TriOrient. They bring to life classic Eastern music rooted in rich tradition and folklore to audiences around the world. The show starts at 8pm. Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? March 31 Event? Rodrigo Y Gabriela Venue? Arad Fort E Call 39 900-630.

Visit www.springofculture.org for more information on the Education, Community and Talent Outreach Programmes. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

VISIONS OF A PAINTER When? Ongoing-March 4 Event? Exhibition: Abstract Expressionism Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space A solo exhibition ‘Abstract Expressionism’ sees the return of Iraqi artist Ghassan Muhsin to Bahrain, after being celebrated worldwide in New York, London and Qatar. The exhibit is a retrospective of his 30-year career as a self-taught painter. The decorated landscapes of oases, deserts and seas are evocative of an eye that has travelled far from home and returned with a new vision. Through the trajectory of his work, Ghassan marries a range of styles and techniques into a reflection of his personal journey as an artist. The exhibition opens daily from 10am-10pm. Call 17 717-441 or visit www.alriwaqartspace.com

RACES GALORE When? Throughout March Event? Motoring Events Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)

This month’s calendar of events at the BIC is packed with adrenaline. The Bahrain Drag Racing Championship Round 5 is back, with an expected number of more than 100 drivers in both cars and motorbikes, competing in 14 different categories. Action will be held along BIC’s world-class quartermile drag strip, with back-to-back evenings of Test and Tune taking place on March 1 and 2 and then qualifying follows on March 3, leading up to race day on March 4. The longest-running circuit racing competition in the entire Gulf, the BIC 2,000cc Challenge will be held from March 4-5, the sixth round this season. Drivers compete in two-litre cars with minimal configurations allowed. Taking place at the same time will be the third round of the Bahrain Superbike Championship (BSBK). This is a first-of-its-kind series in the Kingdom. It follows the arrive-and-drive format and competitors battle it out on Ducati 899 Panigale sport bikes. BIC’s world-class karting facility, Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) will be holding the third and final round of the Bahrain SWS Endurance Championship from March 11-12. This will be a 24-hour race, with a grid of more than 20 teams taking part. An arrive-and-drive competition, the karters will compete in identical Sodikarts, provided by BIKC, in order to ensure an even playing field. Call the BIC hotline 17 450-000 or visit www.bahraingp.com.

SHOP AND PLAY When? March 1-April 4 Event? Mall Promotions Venue? MODA Mall

36 March 2016

Buckle up for a sensory shopping experience at MODA Mall as it hosts its Shop & Win promotion ‘Feel the Fashion, Sense the Speed’ and Oculus virtual reality racing zone. With the racing season back in action, brand-conscious shoppers have a chance to win a luxurious Hublot watch for every BD10 spent at any of the outlets at MODA Mall, from March 1-April 4. The final draw will take place on April 5. Enjoy a thrilling 3D virtual reality game to get a closer feel of the Formula 1 experience, from March 17-April 3. You can rev up in a virtual race with the Oculus F1 seat simulator and enjoy 360-degree head tracking gear. It’s an

exciting motion-filled racing zone for the entire family to enjoy. Oculus virtual reality timings are from Sunday to Wednesday, 10am-8pm and Thursday to Saturday, 10am-10pm. Visit Facebook page Moda Mall Bahrain or follow Twitter and Instagram @MODA_MALL. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

A LITERARY AFFAIR When? March 2 Event? Book Signing and Talk With Max Strom Venue? Words Bookstore Café A world renowned teacher of yoga and personal transformation, inspirational speaker, and bestselling author Max Strom will be in Bahrain on March 2 for a talk and book signing at Words Bookstore Café in

Budaiya, at 7pm. He is renowned for his two inspiring books A Life Worth Breathing, now published in six languages, and There is No App for Happiness, his most recent title addressing the challenge of finding meaning in the digital age. Max will be in Bahrain to conduct yoga workshops and teacher training at Namaste Bahrain. Call 17 690-790.

When? Ongoing Event? Bahrain Unlocked - Digital Photography Exhibition Venue? Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain E Call 17 171-107. When? Ongoing – Throughout the Year Event? Water Sports Activities Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain E Call the Sports Club on 17 586-612 or email rc.bahrz.events@ritzcarlton.com.

Max Strom

When? Ongoing-March 4 Event? Exhibition: Abstract Expressionism Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E Call 17 717-441 or visit www.alriwaqartspace.com.

RUN FOR A CAUSE When? March 4 Event? Jawad Mini Marathon Venue? The Jawad Dome Following on the success of the previous race and the tremendous support and awareness it generated, Jawad Business Group intends to make this year’s Annual Mini Marathon an even bigger success. Conducted under the patronage of the governor of Northern Governorate, Ali Al Shaikh Abdul Hussein Al Asfoor, the Jawad Mini Marathon 2016 has been taglined, ‘Help the Cause, Run, Walk for Sickle Cell’. The event aims to put a spotlight on the potentially fatal disease which is prevalent in Bahrain. The marathon will support the

organisations that deal with this condition and help them achieve their goals. All proceeds will be donated to societies for sickle cell patients’ care, for their work in educating people about the disease and helping the patients and their families, in addition to finding the right legislations, programmes, courses and activities. The three categories of 5km, 8km and a walkathon of 3km, are divided into different age groups, starting from

nine years to over 50s, for men and women, as well as a category for disabled participants. There will be more than 25 trophies for the winners and a raffle draw with 20-plus prizes to be won. The fees will be BD2 for adults and BD1 for children under 16 years, and registration can be done online at www.jawadminimarathon.com, until March 3. Call 39 132-102 or email adnan1961@gmail.com.

When? March 4, 5, 11, 12 Event? Golf Championships Venue? Awali Golf Club (AGC)

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When? Throughout March Event? Motoring Events Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) E Call the BIC hotline 17 450-000 or visit www.bahraingp.com. When? March 1-April 4 Event? Mall Promotions Venue? MODA Mall E Visit Facebook page Moda Mall Bahrain or follow Twitter and Instagram @MODA_MALL. When? March 2 Event? Book Signing and Talk With Max Strom Venue? Words Bookstore Cafe E Call 17 690-790.

GET READY TO PUTT

Believed to be the oldest desert course in the Gulf, the Awali club is set to host the Bahrain Golf Opens 2016. The 28th Bahrain Ladies Open Championship will be held on March 4 and 5 and is open to all ladies with a recognised club handicap. The 2015 champion Lynn St Lawrence will return to defend her title. The 53rd Bahrain Open Championship will be held on March 11 and 12 and is open to men, professionals and amateurs, with handicaps up to and including 12 with a maximum field of 108

When? Ongoing - March 15 Event? Art Exhibition KKF’s Fountain of Youth Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123 or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

When? March 4 Event? Jawad Mini Marathon Venue? The Jawad Dome E Call 39 132-102 or email adnan1961@gmail.com. Nasser Yacoub

players. They will include the top golfers from Bahrain and entrants from the Gulf region and Europe. Bahrain’s own Nasser Yacoub, a six-time winner and the 2015 Open Champion, will return to defend his title. English professional and fivetime champion, Andy Marshall, is also expected to attend as is

Lynn St Lawrence

Scottish professional, David Park, who was the winner in 2004 and is the club’s former professional. Spectators are welcome for both events and admission is free. The AGC Opens are proud supporters of the RIA Institute, Bahrain. Call 17 756-770 or visit www.awaligolfclub.com.

When? March 4 Event? St Christopher’s School Charity Auction Ball Venue? Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Have an enjoyable evening of dinner and dance and help a cause. All proceeds go directly towards helping Syrian children rebuild their lives. Tickets cost BD20, event starts at 7pm. E Call 17 605-000.

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MUSIC THERAPY When? March 5 Event? Introducing Music Therapy With Aksana Kavaliova-Moussi Venue? Words Bookstore Café Learn the healing powers of music as Words Bookstore Café holds an interesting workshop focusing on music therapy for children with various needs, such as motor and coordination problems; speech/language/ communication and cognitive delays; Down syndrome; developmental delays; children on the autistic spectrum; as well as for parents of young children who want to boost their child’s development. Conducted by accredited music therapist Aksana Kavaliova-Moussi, participants will learn how music

therapy addresses cognitive, communicative, sensorimotor, social and emotional development. The workshop will have an experiential part, where Aksana will demonstrate some Therapeutic Music Interventions (TMI) and lead a drum/rhythm circle. The workshop will be held from 11am-12.30pm and costs BD15, payable to Words in advance. Email info@wordsbookstorecafe.com to sign up for the workshop. Call 17 690-790.

TODAY’S GEOSCIENCE, TOMORROW’S ENERGY When? March 7-10 Event? Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition (GEO 2016) Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre A critical exchange of oil and gas insights will take place at GEO 2016 under the theme ‘Today’s Geoscience, Tomorrow’s Energy’. The largest petroleum geoscience conference and exhibition in the Middle East, now in its 12th edition, will be held under the patronage of The Prime Minister His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Over 4,000 geoscientists and petroleum industry professionals from 50-plus countries will gather to debate and shape the future of the industry, build skills, network with peers and purchase products and services that will take their exploration and production programmes to the next level.

This biannual event incorporates a four-day high-level conference organised by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers and the Society of Exploration Geophysicists. A three-day exhibition of oil and gas exploration products and services runs parallel to the conference from March 8-10. In addition to networking events, technical courses, poster sessions and core workshops, the conference features a soft skills short course and a panel session discussing factors for success in the industry. New additions to the 2016 agenda include a special session entitled ‘Women’s

Growing Role in the Energy Industry’ led by top female industry professionals. GEO’s focus on the future also includes a robust programme of activities for young professionals and students representing 18 universities. The event showcases over 130 exhibitors from 20-plus countries including national oil companies, international oil companies, suppliers, service providers and country pavilions from Egypt, North America and the UK. Visit www.geo2016.com.

When? March 11 Event? Ballet Dance Show Venue? St Christopher’s Junior School

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Around the World’, from the beats of the African drum to a passionate Spanish tango. The performance will be held at 4pm, at the St Christopher’s junior school in Saar. The show is open for all, including parents and friends of the students as well as the public.

When? March 5 Event? Amwaj Marina Market Venue? Amwaj Marina, Amwaj islands Enjoy a fun-filled family day with shopping and kids’ entertainment. E Follow Facebook page Amwaj Islands, Instagram @amwaj_islands and Twitter @amwajislands When? March 5 Event? Introducing Music Therapy With Aksana Kavaliova-Moussi Venue? Words Bookstore Café E Call 17 690-790. When? March 6 Event? Lecture (Part of Food is Culture event) Venue? Bahrain National Museum The second part of the ongoing Food is Culture event will feature a lecture by Dalal Alsherooqi, at 7pm. E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

PIROUETTE PERFECT

Get ready for a spectacular demonstration of talent as the Bahrain Ballet Centre presents its annual dance show. The 60-minute showcase will feature 52 students, aged three to 24 years from various walks of life, taking you on a tantalising journey by ‘Dancing

When? March 4, 5, 11, 12 Event? Bahrain Golf Opens 2016 Venue? The Awali Golf Club E Call 17 756-770 or visit www.awaligolfclub.com.

Call 17 693-232 or visit the Facebook page: Bahrain Ballet Centre.

When? March 7-10 Event? Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition (GEO 2016) Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre E Visit www.geo2016.com. When? March 8 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting and Rehearsals Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Enjoy an evening discussing and reciting poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795. When? March 9 Event? Yalla Habibi Spring ’16 Launch Venue? Words Bookstore Café Yalla Habibi›s latest collection of cushions features new artists Jenine Sharabi and Ahmed Anan and incorporates materials handwoven in Bani Jamrah. Launch at 7pm. E Call 17 690-790. When? March 11 Event? Annual Ballet Dance Show Venue? St Christopher’s Junior School E Call 17 693-232 or visit the Facebook page: Bahrain Ballet Centre.

March 2016 39

happenings

MICKEY MOUSE COMES TO TOWN! Everyone’s favourite Disney character will make his debut on the island as the spectacular live show arrives in the Kingdom this month. MINISTRY FOR INDUSTRY, COMMERCE & TOURISM

Mickey Mouse and his band of friends will be performing in a musical mash-up of mega proportions when Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival debuts in Bahrain from March 15-19, at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, Hall 1. Produced by Feld Entertainment in partnership with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival strives to be the biggest concert experience to hit live family entertainment. The show is part of the calendar of events planned by the BTEA to commemorate the country’s standing as Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism 2016. “We are extremely pleased to have added this first-time event to our list of activities for 2016,” says Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, acting chief executive of the BTEA. “Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival will most certainly add another dimension to the variety of exciting events planned for this year, further positioning the Kingdom as a leading hub for 40 March 2016

family entertainment.” Concert goers will hear greatest hits from the blockbuster movies, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and Disney Pixar’s Toy Story. The event, featuring an all star line-up of more than 25 Disney characters, begins with audiences watching a state-of-the-art video projection of the frenzy backstage which spills onto the stage as Mickey welcomes guests to his concert tour. Soon thereafter, theatre goers will be transported to a new world of music beats, dizzying acrobatics, flying carpets and magical transformations with Aladdin, Jasmine and Genie. Underwater is where the crowd will meet up with Ariel, Sebastian and their nautical pals to groove to reggae rhythms. And, family and friends will stomp to the beat as Woody, Buzz and Jessie teach them how to boogie rodeo-style. Anyone can be a member of the band as giant-sized balloons fall from the ceiling in one scene and then in the next, Disney characters are dancing in the aisles. “One song can touch millions of

people around the world and Disney has been at the beat of this concept for years by making music a main ingredient of storytelling,” says producer and CEO of Feld Entertainment, Kenneth Feld. The father-daughter production team, Kenneth and Alana Feld, have hand selected awardwinning creative talents whose credits span from working with Madonna to winning a Latin Grammy Award to designing hundreds of costumes for Disney theme park shows. Show timings

are 7pm on March 15; 3pm and 7pm on March 16; 11am, 3pm and 7pm on March 17; 10am, 3pm and 7pm on March 18; and 11am, 3pm and 7pm on March 19. Tickets are priced at BD10 (bronze), BD20 (silver), BD40 (gold) and BD85 (VIP), sold at Virgin Megastore, City Centre Bahrain and online at http://tickets. virginmegastore.me/index. php?event_id=3595 Call Virgin Megastore hotline 17 172-300 for more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

INDONESIAN FILM SCREENING When? March 13 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art An internationally acclaimed drama film will be screened at La Fontaine as it hosts its monthly movie night on March 13. The Rainbow Troops is an Indonesian film adapted from the popular novel of the same name by Andrea Hirata. The film follows a group of 10 school boys and their two inspirational teachers as they struggle with poverty and develop hopes for the future in Gantong Village on the farming and tin mining island of Belitung, off the east coast of Sumatra. The film is the highest grossing in Indonesian box office history and won a number of local and international awards. The screening starts at 8pm and tickets are priced at

When? March 11-12 Event? Desire Map Workshop With Rana Alamuddin Venue? Words Bookstore Cafe The Desire Map is a global movement for women and men to connect with their core desired feelings and create goals with soul. Timings are 10am-3pm. E Call 17 690-790 or email info@wordsbookstorecafe.com.

BD10, which can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening. The restaurant starts serving from 6.30pm. Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

CELEBRATING FASHION When? March 16 Event? Velvet Fashion Show Venue? Barcelona Restaurant Enjoy an evening of stylish commemorations with the Velvet Fashion Show hosted by Estbythelna and Moments &

When? March 13 Event? Lecture (Part of Food is Culture event) Venue? Bahrain National Museum The second part of the ongoing Food is Culture event will feature a lecture by Balqees Fakhro, at 7pm. E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

Memories Events. The event is in celebration of South African designer Estbythelna’s fifth year of fabulously themed fashion shows in Bahrain. The clothes are designed for all occasions, be it dress up, fun or casual days, offering a combination of Bohemian chic with a romantic vintage flair. The event will be held at Barcelona Restaurant in Adliya at 7pm. Tickets are priced at BD25 per person and the designs will go on sale after the fashion show. Call 36 665-130.

When? March 14 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795. When? March 16 Event? Velvet Fashion Show Venue? Barcelona Restaurant E Call 36 665-130.

EDUCATION IN FOCUS

When? March 21 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Hone your creative writing skills with this interesting workshop at 7.30pm. E Call 39 574-795.

When? March 22-24 Event? Bahrain Education and Training International Exhibition (EDUTEX) Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre The fourth edition of EDUTEX Spring ‘16 is an annual event for universities, colleges and training institutions to recruit new students from Bahrain and the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia. The event provides a powerful platform for organisations to meet with more than 5,000 high school students, parents, training seekers, learners, education professionals, business executives and senior governmental officials. The last EDUTEX saw more than 68 education and training providers 42 March 2016

and participants from 21 countries, including Bahrain, Canada, Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Malaysia, North Cyprus, Oman, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, UAE, UK and USA. The opening ceremony will be held on March 22 at 10am, and thereafter the exhibition timings are from 9am-1pm and 4pm-8pm. The event is free of charge for students and the public.

When? March 13 Event? Movie Night: The Rainbow Troops Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net.

When? March 22-24 Event? Bahrain Education and Training International Exhibition (EDUTEX) Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 77 086-266, 36 086-266 or email edutex.bahrain@gmail.com.

Call 77 086-266, 36 086-266 or email edutex.bahrain@gmail.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOLI MOLY Join in the festival of colours and enjoy a day of fun for the whole family. Bahrain residents are gearing up for one of the biggest events of the year, Holi. This spring festival, also known as the festival of colours, sees people throw coloured powder and water at each other. This year, to celebrate, Sphere advertising and events brings Bahrain’s biggest Holi bash – titled Balam Pichkari: Colour Festival – to your favorite waterpark, The Lost Paradise of Dilmun. The event runs from 10am to 6pm on March 18. There will be two topnotch DJs from Bahrain and one International DJ along with live dhol. You can enjoy a bite to eat at the food counter, pick a deal at one of the commercial stalls or choose to play some fun games at the entertainment section. Rang Bazaar is another highlight of the event – which is organised by MOMwise.bh –spreading awareness among children to create recycled and environmentally safe colours. Tickets are priced at BD6 per head, inclusive of unlimited rides and entrance fees, while children under two enter for free. The offer is valid until March 17. Free transportation is also available covering all of Bahrain’s major cities for the convenience of the attendees. Sphere has also decided to donate part of the proceedings to Sneha – a school in Bahrain for children with special needs. Tickets available at the restaurant The Urban Dhaba, Adliya (behind BBK) or online through www.kouponer.com. Call 37 792-969/ 33 181-394 or 34 082-862.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 43

afterdark happenings

CRAZY BALKAN

SWING OUT BAHRAIN

When? March 2 Event? Balkan Party Venue? Brazil Lounge

When? March 4 Event? Jazz Ball Venue? Al Bahrain Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

The second round of the big Balkan Party targeting the eastern European crowd in Bahrain, will be held on March 2 at Brazil Lounge in Adliya. The event will feature an amazing ex-Yu DJ, playing great music from the former Yugoslavia and Balkans and lovely people who will show you the real spirit of ‘crazy Balkan’! The party is from 8pm-1.30am and tickets are on pre-sale at BD10 including two drinks. Call 17 826-686.

BEACH-SIDE GLOW When? March 3 Event? Glow It Up Venue? Private Island

In the dead of the night, one address in town will come alive as Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay plays host to an exciting night of jazz. Share a taste for fine food and raise a toast in true mobster style with six-piece jazz band the Swing Revue. Soak in the cool vintage melodies with a threecourse culinary treat and an after-dinner rendezvous of cigars and beverages for BD40++. The evening starts at 8pm and the after party is outside on the terrace with a DJ. Call 17 115-500.

ROOTS ROCKIN’ When? March 5 Event? Reggae Night Venue? Novotel Al Dana Resort

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is having its first beach party of the year on the private island so get your glow on, grab your dancing shoes and bop the night away. Enjoy a delicious buffet and live cooking stations accompanied by the tunes of saxophonist Franky Flowerz and the electrifying beats of DJ Sami. The event kicks off at 8pm and tickets are BD20 for RitzCarlton members and BD30 for non-members, including unlimited house beverages until 11.30pm. The dress code is smart casual and high heels are not recommended. Call 17 586-499.

Dohty Family’s finest, DJ Moh, stops off in Bahrain as part of a Middle East tour. Considered one of the best reggae and dancehall jugglers in East Africa, he currently is one of the head DJs at Dohty Family, a block reggae music sound company in East and Central Africa. DJ Moh has performed around the world alongside the likes of Tarrus Riley, Morgan Heritage, Jah Cure, Cecile, Anthony B, Morgan Heritage and many more. The show starts at 9pm and tickets are BD5. Call 36869843.

THE CANDY MAN COMETH When? March 11 Event? DJ appearance Venue? Club Buffalo Direct from the UK comes awardwinning DJ and radio presenter Colin Candy. Since scooping the ‘UK DJ Of The Year’ award in 1986 at the tender age of 16, Colin rocketed into cult status and can boast a lengthy and 44 March 2016

colourful career spanning 30 years: highlights include residencies at house/trance super-clubs Gatecrasher and Hed Kandi in Ibiza. He also performs at all the massive UK student events including: Oceana, Pop and Stupid. Tuesday. He promises a night of edgy sounds and an unforgettable journey into house, hip hop and R&B — plus he’ll even throw in a few

party classics for good measure. The show starts at 9pm and entry is BD5 including one drink. Call 17 826-001.

When? March 3 Event? Club Night Venue? Tramps For all the desi heads in town there’s something specially for you with entertainment collective BASSIX dropping bass and desi beats from DJ Daryion & DJ Nirmal! Early bird tickets are on sale at BD5 for guys and BD7 for couples. E Call 33 065-107 33 292-925, 37 742-500. When? March 11 Event? BG Harmony Venue? Polo Gastropub stage, Adliya BG Harmony take to the Polo Gastropub stage for the first time bringing you hits from The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Coldplay and more. The show starts at 9 pm. E Call 17 725-000. When? March 11 Event? Live band Venue? The British Club Popular local band Revolver reunite for one night only for an evening of classic tunes and chart hits to raise funds for the abused and abandoned animals looked after by Tony the Dogfather. Tickets are priced BD15, including buffet, and are available only from The British Club. E Call 17 728-245. When? March 17 Event? St Patrick’s Day Venue? JJ’s Celebrate Ireland’s special day at the Kingdom’s favourite Paddy pub with The O’Dwyers, a Celtic music band based in Bahrain, made up of Martin Parker, John Jaworski and Joe Dalton. There’ll also be music from DJ Tripz and house band The Noise and lots of Irish food and drinks. Entry is BD3 on the door. E Call 39 329-083. When? March 17 & 18 Event? St Patrick’s Day Party Venue? Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Join in two days of Celtic fun with Irish-themed parties from 7pm on both evenings. E Call 17 531-122.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

SAXY BIRTHDAY

A MAJOR PARTY When? March 25 Event? DJ appearance Venue? Club Buffalo One of the sexiest international players, Ukranian beauty DJ Djoly offers up a mix of house, electro, EDM and more to keep the dance floor packed. Tickets are BD5 including one drink. E Call 17 826-001.

When? March 17 Event? Birthday Party Venue? Meisei Meisei is turning three and to celebrate the venue has lined up a birthday treat. Sarah Chandler, creator of the now-famous UK Saxation girls, will be entertaining while the chefs will be creating a masterpiece giant cake for guests, with special gifts for the ladies at no extra charge. A night not to be missed! The party will be from 9pm to 2am with dining beginning at 7pm. Call 17 007-770.

When? March 31 Event? Grand Prix Opening Party Venue? Ibrida Dance DJ collective Major Lazer comes to the island to kick off the Formula 1 weekend in style. The artists, best known for tracks such as Lean On and Light It Up, will be hitting the stage for an evening of fun and fantastic sounds to get the island’s biggest social weekend of the year off to a flying start. Pre-sale tickets are priced at BD15. Call 36 897-378.

When? Fridays Event? Bollywood Dance Party Venue? Akbar, Ramada Palace Hotel Desi Dhamaka is back with DJ Chetaz playing Indian beats every Friday from 7pm. Tickets are BD7 including a great Indian buffet. E Call 33 617-572. When? Nightly Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Ekko The old Motorox has a new name and a new promotion with ladies’ night every night of the week. Girls can enjoy unlimited selected beverages for just BD5. E Call 36 800-022.

A better life starts with a healthy smile.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 45

afterdark happenings

SPINNING UP A STORM One of Juffair’s most popular nightclubs takes its entertainment to a whole new level with a brand new DJ. RAMEE ROSE HOTEL

DJ and producer Chunk, from South London, has been a prominent fixture on the DJ circuit for the past seven years and has held residencies in a number of venues across Greece, Spain, Bahrain and the UK. He now brings his signature brand of entertainment to Club XS at the Ramee Rose Hotel. Throughout his career as a DJ, Chunk has featured at some of the most prestigious venues in the UK and beyond such as Ministry Of Sound, Pacha and Toolroom Knights. He has performed with artists such as DJ Mag, Kinky Malinki, Hed Kandi, Afrojack, Dysfunctional, Raindance, Shiva, Pukka Up and many more. He has also played at a number of large corporate events including a Nexus campaign and Ann Summers press release parties. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and charisma, this lovable character never fails to generate an amazing atmosphere wherever he goes. Chunk plays a number of genres, which cater to diverse crowds and occasions. He started his project Move The House in 2009 and in 2014 featured at London’s infamous South West Four Festival in Maceo Plex’s Dream Don’t Sleep Arena, sharing the stage with some of the biggest artists and DJ/producers in the world.

46 March 2016

Every Saturday he also presents an online radio podcast on Addicted2Bassradio which has featured top DJ/producers such as Mark Knight, Judge Jules, Ramon Tapia and Umek. Catch him live as he brings the house down every night at Club XS in Juffair. Call 34 419-910.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

GREEN IS GOOD The biggest party of the month is most certainly St Patrick’s Day and there could be no better place to celebrate it at than this club. RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

All roads lead to Dublin on St Patrick’s weekend! Juffair’s original Irish bar, Dublin Club, promises a spectacular bash on March 17 and 18 to celebrate the much-loved festival. British band ‘Pressure Drop’ along with DJ Kenny M will be playing a variety of popular Irish tunes as well as some folk classics to get everyone into the spirit. Dublin Club already feels like a traditional British bar, but, for the event, it will be fully decked out in an Irish theme to deliver a really authentic experience. The venue’s talented chefs will be providing a selection of traditional cuisine over the two days, so expect some Irish stew and a hearty Irish breakfast on the menu. The venue is well known for serving an excellent pint of that glorious ‘dark matter’ and will be giving discounts on a number Irish brands at the bar. You can opt for a three-course menu for BD10 or go for an unlimited drinks package from BD15. Earlier in the month, on March 11, two

www.bahrainthismonth.com

talented DJs from Ukraine get behind the decks and deliver a night of unmatched energy. Called Duo Husky, they start at 9pm and will play a mix of popular house music.

After playing to packed houses across the Middle East and Europe, they bring their electrifying tunes to Dublin Club. Call 39 610-405.

March 2016 47

INTERVIEWS DRIVING AHEAD WITH NEW RULES CHARLIE HOLDING The Kingdom’s stringent new traffic laws are in effect and BTM catches up with the Director-General of the Traffic Directorate, Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, to find out more.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 50 SCALING NEW HEIGHTS 54 RACING TO VICTORY

Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa

otorists in Bahrain have been given a clear warning – follow the rules of the road or face strict penalties under a new points system. The new legislation also outlines dramatically increased fines and jail times for various offences. Many drivers will already have noticed a number of new traffic cameras popping up across the island but that is just the beginning of an initiative that aims to save lives. Shaikh Nasser says that the shake-up is long overdue and hopes that the rules will have a drastic affect on driving behaviour in the Kingdom. “These rules are being put in place to help ensure public safety,” he explains. “We 48 March 2016

know it is only the minority of drivers who don’t follow the rules and our message to them is you can’t hide your head in the sand anymore – we will see you.” Last year there were a staggering 84 fatalities in traffic accidents in Bahrain and Shaikh Nasser is determined to see that number drop drastically in 2016. He says: “You can ask any Bahraini whether they have a friend or relative that has passed away on the road – they will all say yes and that is a tragedy. “Each of the rules are put in place to save lives; one could be yours or your family’s. They are there for your benefit whether you realise it or not.” The new cameras are capable of detecting

speeding, running red lights, drivers not wearing a seatbelt, babies in the front of the car, and using mobile phones. Under the new law, running a red light will result in up to six months in jail or a fine of BD100 to BD500, which will be increased to BD1,000 to BD3,000 and/or three months to three years in jail if it results in an injury. Further, if the accident causes a fatality, it will carry a minimum six-month jail sentence and a fine of between BD2,000 and BD6,000. In the previous law, drunk driving carried a jail sentence of up to a year and/or a fine of BD500, with a maximum of two years in prison and/or a BD1,000 fine if it resulted in an accident. Now, driving under the influence of drugs or www.bahrainthismonth.com

alcohol will result in a fine of BD500 to BD1,000 and/or a jail sentence of a month to a year. Further, if speeding results in an injury to someone or damage to public or private property, it carries a one month to three years sentence and/or a fine of BD1,000, which can increase to BD2,000 in case of a fatality. Street racing, driving without a licence and driving a car without brakes or with unfit brakes will carry a fine of BD50, which could go up to

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BD500 and/or a prison term of up to six months. Allowing children to sit in the front seat or having infants in a car without a child seat will result in fines between BD20 to BD100. Despite the potentially huge sums of money being paid by drivers who break the law, finance is not a factor. The Traffic Directorate doesn’t need their money; it needs them to focus on their safety. One issue Shaikh Nasser is keen to address is

the use of mobile phones while driving. He says: “In 2015 a huge chunk of fatal car accidents happened with stationary objects including trees, walls, fences and poles. I have a gut feeling the cause of these accidents is mobiles, but we can’t say it officially unless we can prove it. But what makes a driver hit something that isn’t moving? Either he is intoxicated or it’s the mobile. “It’s estimated around the world that within 30 seconds of using your phone while driving you can cover the length of a football pitch.” Last year, the Traffic Directorate rolled out its rethink campaign, urging drivers to rethink their behaviour on the road and educating youngsters about the importance of safety. This trend continues in 2016 and Shaikh Nasser says that educating younger children is imperative to success. He explains: “We discovered after the rethink campaign, we were doing awareness for drivers, we need to start younger. Last year we changed our approach from lecturing to training. We taught younger children how to cross the road, use buses and how to monitor their parents’ driving habits.” Shaikh Nasser’s advice to drivers in the Kingdom is simple. “Before you get in your vehicle and start the ignition, start thinking. You share the road with others, all kinds of vehicles, and you have to be aware of and follow the rules.”

March 2016 49

interview

Nadia Bouslama

SCALING NEW HEIGHTS BEHNAZ SANJANA This leading real estate investment firm is set to roll out the blueprint of its extraordinary project in style.

magine a quick getaway from the routine and the ordinary. Imagine unwinding in your own personal sanctuary; just you, the azure waters, and, of course, state-of-theart amenities. You can imagine all this and much more at Layan, the haven of hedonism developed by Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company at Durrat Marina. “The name Layan is a word taken from the Holy Quran. It means grace and softness, the very experience that we want to give to our customers,” explains Nadia Bouslama, head of marketing at Bin Faqeeh. “We want to give them a weekend retreat with a resort vibe, but with the comfort of home.” The facade of the four-storey residential structure will reflect the flowing nature of the ocean and waves. “It’s a very futuristic design and will include 38 commercial spaces as well,” says Nadia. Coming to the unique selling point of this ambitious venture, she reveals, “There is no residential area in the world that we know today which has its own water park; Layan will be the first. Whoever owns space at Layan, will have private access to the water park.” If the idea of your home having a waterslide that transports you straight into a water park seems like a figment of someone’s imagination; Layan is here to prove otherwise. “Owners of certain apartments need to just step out onto 50 March 2016

their balconies and slide down to the water park,” Nadia confirms. The water park has a wave pool, a surfing area, floating restaurants, a water movie theatre and a host of activities for adults and kids. The kids’ area has slides and a huge bucket of water hanging overhead to drench young ones in sheer delight. “The idea is for the whole family to have fun,” says Nadia. “There will be scheduled events for kids so they can be taken care of when the parents are enjoying themselves elsewhere on the property. The

choices at Layan will be unlimited.” She also points out that these amenities are private and exclusive for residents, with no need to queue up for fun. Accommodation at Layan will be available in studio, one-, two-, three bedroom apartments, one bedroom duplex and penthouse formats. The apartment structure will be flanked by villas on either side and each villa comes with a luxury car and a yacht. “We’re pricing the units reasonably, to give clients great value for their money,” Nadia explains.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The whole project is conceptualised and designed by the innovators at Bin Faqeeh. At the helm of the team is company chairman, Faisal Faqeeh. “Our chairman is a visionary and closely follows the design of every project,” says Nadia. “It’s his vision that is being implemented. He comes up with a unique concept and, with a lot of brainstorming within our team and the expertise of professionals, we deliver a one-ofa-kind product to our customers. “An overwhelming number of people from Bahrain and across the GCC have shown interest in the project through its Instagram campaign. We have started out with teasers; revealing little snippets about the fantastic creation that Layan will be. Keen investors have already started following the project’s progress,” Nadia says. This build up in Layan’s social media marketing will culminate in an extravagant carnival to celebrate the launch of the project, during which buyers can register and book their units. The gala will take place at the site

of the project over three days, from March 24 to 26. The company will underline the grandeur of Layan by offering guests an unforgettable experience. “We will invite our VIP guests, media partners and winners of the social media campaign to dine in the sky. The announcement has garnered great response, and we have people from all over the GCC calling us to inquire about it!” says Nadia. The surreal experience of dining amidst the clouds will be the icing on the cake of the gala. Back on Earth, the carnival will span 5,000 square metres and will be packed with attractions for all ages. “The carnival will have a games arena, a pet farm, restaurants, as well as an area for parents to leave their kids to have fun under the care of professional nannies,” says Nadia. “Real Ferrari car seats for virtual racing games, a movie theatre, a water show executed by experts from France, and other entertainment in the form of performances, music and fire

blowers will be the highlights of the extravaganza. All this will be juxtaposed with the beautiful backdrop of the sea.” Nadia is upbeat regarding the real estate sector in Bahrain. “At a time like this, the competition is less, so a unique project like Layan is sure to be a success. Bahrain is convenient to access from Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi, and our prices are very reasonable,” she says. “At Bin Faqeeh, we’re not just about selling real estate. We offer our clients an experience, and that’s an integral part of planning our projects. I think even though times are tough, people will recognise the potential that this project has, and because there are limited units available, they will be keen to grab the opportunity now,” she adds. Nadia believes that projects such as these are a great challenge for Bin Faqeeh but, more importantly, they are going to be beneficial to the way the world perceives Bahrain, making it a nation to reckon with.

To win a chance to dine in the sky, visit Facebook /bahrainthismonth, Instagram @BHThisMonth or Twitter @bahrainthismonth. www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 51

interview

Rodrigo y Gabriela

DYNAMIC DUO SET TO ROCK BAHRAIN! CHARLIE HOLDING Internationally acclaimed guitar virtuosos Rodrigo y Gabriela are set to perform in Bahrain this month, much to the delight of fans in the Kingdom.

he Mexican musicians have won over legions of fans across the world with their unique and sublime performances that stretch the limits of what can be done with acoustic guitars. They will be in Bahrain on March 31 as part of the Spring of Culture Festival and are looking forward to entertaining their fans. For their Bahrain debut, Rodrigo says audiences can expect plenty of volume and energy. “It’s our first time visiting Bahrain, and it is always exciting to visit new places and see different cultures at first hand,” he explains. “It’s not a recital, it’s a rock show. We like the audience to sing along and clap their hands. The fans getting involved is a big part of the night.” It comes as no surprise, then, that Rodrigo y Gabriela cite heavy metal and thrash metal as 52 March 2016

key influences on their music. Rodrigo says: “In the early days we would play bossa nova Metallica songs in hotels, it kept us sane. I think they are just really strong songs, played either by a rock band or two acoustic guitars, and great tunes always connect.” Having played to large and small crowds, and even US president Barack Obama, each performance is a thrill to the pair. Rodrigo explains: “They can both be exciting, we’ve had amazing nights at festivals around the world. Our own big gigs like the Hollywood Bowl or Red Rocks in Colorado have been thrilling, but we also get a great buzz from playing club shows in new places.” With a number of fantastic experiences along the way to worldwide fame, Rodrigo says he’s not a big fan of looking back and prefers to live

in the now. “I’m grateful for the opportunities that being a successful working musician has brought me. When Gabriela and I left Mexico to travel to Europe in 1999, we really didn’t know where the road was ultimately going to take us.” The band’s last album was 9 Dead Alive in 2014 and they are currently writing new material in the studio in Ixtapa. The new album is set to feature “some interesting collaborations” and should be out next year. Rodrigo says: “We’ve been incredibly lucky to work with musical heroes like Zack De La Rocha from Rage Against The Machine and Robert Trujillo from Metallica, and we have some new hook-ups coming, which I think the fans will like.” For details of the show, visit www. springofculture.org. www.bahrainthismonth.com

k Boo

sp r u o

W e NO

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre April 19th - 21st 2016

Contact: Amal Abdulla : 17558898 Eman Taheri : 17558814

www.foodexpo.bh 1

interview Shaikh Jaber bin Ali Al Khalifa

RACING TO VICTORY CHARLIE HOLDING The Kingdom’s dream of racing glory is closer than ever as drivers gear up for the final of the GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East early this month.

eteran racer Shaikh Jaber bin Ali Al Khalifa has high hopes for Team Bahrain during the sixth and final round of the event, which takes place at Bahrain International Circuit from March 4-5. The championship, currently in its seventh season, features the region’s leading drivers, all vying for glory. Shaikh Jaber, one of the most celebrated drivers in the competition, is eight points clear at the top of the individual driver’s standings in the Bronze category. He believes the series is very important for young regional drivers looking to develop their career in motorsport. He says: “This is a great pathway into other professional championships such as world endurance racing, in which Porsche has been an established brand for many years. The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East provides a strong ground for development.” Shaikh Jaber’s advice to young drivers in Bahrain looking to break into such tournaments is simple. “I would first recommend for young drivers to get into go-karting, this is a great way to learn the basics of racing driving and it allows you to pick up a lot of the skills needed for moving into car racing. “I would advise on getting an instructor, participating in as many races and competitions as possible and then you can look at moving into more professional racing series like the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East where you can develop and test your skills further. The series really is the ultimate regional offering in this respect. There’s nothing else like it for 54 March 2016

young drivers looking to build on their abilities.” The highly competitive and challenging sport requires a number of qualities and skills, as Shaikh Jaber explains: “The driving skills that you need for this type of racing are something that you have to develop and practise for many years. There is a big difference between being able to drive on the roads and being able to race on a track. “Some people would say you either have it or you don’t, but as the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East has shown, if you work hard from a young age and you’re lucky enough to have driver coaches like the ones we have in the series, then you will get better and better. You have to be confident in your own ability to

drive and have a lot of focus to concentrate on yourself and what you are doing on the track.” With a celebrated career already under his belt, Shaikh Jaber sees no sign of the finish line in the near future. “I would like to race for as long as I can, as long as I am physically fit and healthy to race, then I would like to continue. If I can continue racing in the Porsche then this will be a dream come true for me, and racing for Team Bahrain is an honour. If I am not racing here in the Middle East then I will be racing in Europe at the Nürburgring. I would love to race with Porsche in Europe, which is something, that hasn’t happened yet but definitely something I am working on. “ www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

Abdullah Al Ansari

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS CHARLIE HOLDING A new cookie company has opened its doors in the Kingdom. BTM chats with the man behind the munchies.

ntrepreneur Abdullah Al Ansari is hoping his popular cookie franchise will be a hit with dessert fans across the island. Monkey Cookies has already achieved success across the GCC and Bahrain is the latest destination to stock its signature sweet treats. The Kuwait-based company was born in 1999 after Abdullah found himself in financial difficulty. He explains: “I had a car accident and the insurance company sued me for KWD30,000 (BD37,655). I didn’t have that kind of money and, after a year, the debt increased to KWD190,000.” That’s when, under disbelieving conditions, Abdullah’s family house was auctioned off to creditors. At the time, Abdullah was working as an IT teacher and barely had any savings in his bank account. “That’s when I knew I had to do something different to raise the money to save 56 March 2016

my home,” he says. “I didn’t tell my father because he has serious problems with his heart and I didn’t want to worry him.” Spotting a gap in the Kuwait market for quality cookies, he bought a small oven and a small mixer and went through a long, arduous process of trial and error until he came up with the recipe for Monkey Cookies. He says: “Most small businesses in Kuwait start off by making sweets but they don’t do cookies, it’s pretty rare. That’s when I knew I wanted to go into the cookie business. “In the beginning, I did everything myself, cooking, cleaning, driving, marketing. However, as the brand grew in popularity I was able to take on some staff, which meant I could take bigger orders and the business continued to grow.” Abdullah began the business with just KWD50 (BD63) and started generating interest via social media. By the end of his first year in

business he had amassed 100,000 followers. In 2012, he found a location he liked and set up shop. Within two years, he had earned enough money to pay off his debts and presented his father with a heartwarming gift – the deed to the house. With a vast choice of offerings, including Hershey, Monkeymallow, K-bites, N-bites and Nutella brownie cookies it can be hard to pick a favourite … especially for the owner. “I don’t eat my own cookies,” Abdullah reveals. “It’s probably because I spent so long tasting them when I was trying to come up with the recipes!” On March 10, Monkey Cookies will be available in Cake Boutique, Seef Corner. “Cake Boutique is always seeking to bring best-ofbreed desserts to Bahrain. We are confident that our clients in Bahrain will appreciate the new standard that Monkey Cookies sets for cookie lovers on the Island,” says Nawaf Alshawwa, CEO of Mesk Holdings. www.bahrainthismonth.com

SUCCESS BY DESIGN Award-winning Bahraini architect Ala Eddin Mansour, co-founder of Design Studio – Architects told Liz O’Reilly about the ethos that has seen one of his projects named ‘World’s Best’.

Ala Eddin Mansour receiving his award in Dubai

ow old were you when architecture first touched your life and how? My fascination with design actually started out at a very young age. I would spend hours with toys like Lego, building things. Car designs and fashion have always grabbed my attention. As I got older, the best option to channel my passion into a career path was architectural design. So I moved from my hometown, Ramallah, in the West Bank, Palestine, to Amman to Yarmouk University and graduated with a bachelor’s in architectural design in 1985. What was the path you took to enter your profession? After graduation, I was blessed to work side by side with the world-renowned architect Rasem Badran in Amman. I owe a huge part of my success to my 12-year experience with Rasem Badran at Dar Al-Omran. By the time I left to take a job in Bahrain, I had worked on the Justice Palace and Al-Jamea’ Mosque in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia as well as Ta’meer First Commercial Center in Central Riyadh and the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar. As head of architecture at Gulf House Engineering in Bahrain, I was the chief of design and the conceptual architect of many projects such as: Seef Mall Extension, Royal University for Women, Al-Jazira Tower, in addition to many private residences. I also spearheaded the design of Al-Zamil Tower. You recently received two prestigious awards, please tell us more. I received the Five-Star Arabian Property Award and the title ‘Arabia’s Best’ for the design of a private residence in Bahrain. That qualified me for the final, the International Property Awards (IPA), where I received the www.bahrainthismonth.com

The winning design

title ‘World’s Best’ in the category Architecture Single Residence. IPA is the most prestigious programme in the property industry; the Arabian Property Awards is part of it. They are a mark of excellence that I wear with pride. In 2015 I was up against 490 entries from 75 countries. At the Arabian Property Awards, I was the only nominee from 12 countries in Arabia in my category to go through to the final round. This is amazing because the judging is extremely meticulous and involves a panel of 80 judges, chaired by Lord Caithness and Lord Best, members of the UK Parliament. How did it feel to win and to be the first Arab to take such a prestigious title? The joy of receiving these awards was almost indescribable and the titles, my God, I mean I am extremely grateful. For me it stems from feeling utterly validated as an architect for my approach towards design. I have always spoken of, and translated in my designs, architecture which truly corresponds to its context: the environment and climate, the culture, the function of the structure and the needs and desires of the end-users. There are those who perceive architecture only from the artistic standpoint, producing and appreciating designs that only look good. I am empowered now to speak more freely of my approach and hoping to be more of an influence towards sound architecture in the region.

Ala Eddin Mansour

How will the awards affect your work and architecture more widely in the region? I would like to use these awards as an opportunity to draw attention to the subject of the visual and inhabited environment. We live in a time where our influence on the natural environment has become a hot topic, particularly in terms of pollution, be it that of our water, our air or other elements. However, we have been missing an extremely important aspect in this conversation, which is the pollution of our visual and inhabited environment, despite the fact that we are completely surrounded by it as we live in and move through buildings and structures. Such an intrinsic and daily interaction certainly affects us and architectural design is at the heart of it all. The approach to architecture as a visual art and a form of space engineering is inevitable and makes such a field responsible for creating our visual and inhabited environment. It is my wish that such a wonderful milestone in my career can shed light on successful architectural models of Bahraini architects, as well as be the start of a debate and paradigm shift across Bahrain, to elevate the status of architecture to more elegant levels worthy of the architectural heritage of this historic country, and for us to become a model for contemporary and distinguished architecture regionally and globally. March 2016 57

interview

`Young contestants

Margarithe Mayes

YOUNG ACHIEVERS Students of the British School of Bahrain (BSB) will be taking part in the Global Round of the World Scholar’s Cup (WSC) in Thailand, in June. Margarithe Mayes, head of English at BSB, tells Muna Yousef more about the competition.

SC is a competition founded by Daniel Berdichevsky in 2007 that has been steadily gaining momentum. Regionals are held across the globe, followed by a Global Round culminating in the Championship Tournament at Yale University later in the year. Each stage has four team-rounds. The Scholar’s Challenge is a multiple choice question test. The collaborative writing round is a written debate in which youngsters select one out of six statements and argue either for or against it. Each child in a three-person team must select a different topic. The first 30 minutes are used to prepare with teammates; the students then have one hour to compose their essays alone, followed by 15 more minutes to work together. In team debate, the children are given 15 minutes to research their arguments and then debate three times for four minutes, while in the Scholar’s Bowl every team has a clicker and must answer questions that get harder and harder before time runs out. Shouting out the wrong answers to mislead the opposition is considered strategy! The entire competition is based on subject areas which are known in advance. Questions, recommended readings and movies are put on the WSC website to get the children thinking. Some of the topics this year are disease and 58 March 2016

public health and words to light the darkness. There are two divisions: junior, for those up to 15 and senior, for those aged 15 and above. The students decide how to prepare and can even form teams with participants from other schools. “The competition is run so smoothly that it makes you want to do it again. It captured the children’s attention from the word go and kept it right through,” says Margarithe. “There is no other competition like it! It emphasises the growth and learning of the children. It is not about winning or losing and every child walks away at the end of the day with an Alpaca, the competition’s mascot. “It involves applying skills and knowledge across a range of subjects rather than memorisation. It expands their field of view into new areas like crime and justice. The children had to consider things they might not have before, like what are the types of crime, and also look at some famous criminals like Robin Hood and Bonnie and Clyde. “They learn responsibility and teamwork, debating and people skills. They meet and interact with children from other schools and, especially at the Global Round, from different countries. They have to use various resources to get information and critically think to answer questions. It builds confidence and improves their command of English as a language, since

they are constantly surrounded by it. “The Global Round with 3,000 children taking part will have harder questions and fiercer competition, but even the children who were nervous before the Bahrain regional now know what to expect and are so excited about it. Although the excitement probably does in part have to do with travelling. This year BSB had the third-largest number of students in Bahrain taking part with 49 out of 51 students qualifying for the Global Round. “Older children who had participated before gave their juniors advice on what not to do, such as focusing on a single area, but the children qualified because they persevered, read up on articles, practised debate and decided to do their best.” Among the many prizes to be won, Daniel White, a junior student, won the DaVinci award, a peculiar sounding accolade that makes you think of art or movies, but, is actually for the highest scoring children across all events who did not win an individual or team medal. The advice Margarithe would give youngsters is: “If you want to broaden your horizons and outlook on life; if you want to see what life is like outside of what you know it as, take part in the competition. You learn about things you never would otherwise, meet all sorts of people and you have fun!” www.bahrainthismonth.com

A HEART FULL OF HOPE BEHNAZ SANJANA In an age when young minds are consumed by their gizmos, young Adam Kadia uses his pen to spread the word of peace in the world.

Year Four student of St Christopher’s school, Adam Jade Kadia comes across as a regular nine year old who loves basketball and reading about the escapades of the famed Harry Potter. He also likes to swim and enjoys the works of Roald Dahl; Danny the Champion of the World being his favourite from the author. But what makes Adam stand out from the crowd of others in his age group, is that he has authored his own book, Hakeem the Adventurer at his tender age. The desire to write a book was sparked by a light-bulb moment at school. “When I was six years old, our teacher was reading to us one day. That’s when I thought I could write a book too. My mother used to talk about her friend called Hakeem, who was from Libya, and all about his life. So I mixed it with my imagination and made my own story,” says Adam. Asked if his book has a message for its readers, he says: “I want to remind people that it doesn’t matter if you’re black or white, tall or short – we all need to respect each other.” Adam himself is a global citizen of sorts. His www.bahrainthismonth.com

Adam Kadia

father is French, mother is from Morocco and he was born in the USA. He proudly embraces all three nationalities and his thoughts and ideas reflect his multi-ethnicity. Adam’s mother Meriem feels proud of her son’s accomplishment so early on in life. “Adam started reading books at the age of two. Since then, he has been reading every single day. Back then, his teacher had said to me that my son will be doing great things, and going places,” she beams. She goes on to say that Adam would regularly jot down his thoughts and ideas in a notebook and finally decided to turn them into a book for other children to read. The first edition of Hakeem the Adventurer debuted in December 2015 at the St Christopher’s school fair, another book signing recently took place at Words Bookstore Café in Budaiya. The book is easy to read and is illustrated by Adam’s uncle, Phillipe Favre. “I enjoyed chosing the colours for all the pictures,” Adam says. As the protagonist of the story, Hakeem, journeys through North Africa, the Middle East and Europe, the story gives young minds snippets of

valuable information about far off cultures along the way. Adam’s book has piqued the interest of his schoolmates who have given him their positive feedback about it. Fifty copies of Hakeem the Adventurer have been given to Special Family Support and RIA in Bahrain. Adam also looks forward to giving copies of his book to Adam Braun, the founder of the award-winning nonprofit organisation, Pencils of Promise, whenever he visits Bahrain in the future. Through Braun, Adam’s words and Hakeem’s adventure can be taken to many children across different countries. The books is for sale at Words Bookstore Café and Jashanmal nd proceeds will go towards fulfilling Adam’s maternal grandmother’s dream. She was a philanthropist herself and played a major role in fuelling Adam’s altruistic nature. “My mother started to build a school in Morocco while she was alive, but couldn’t complete it. Hopefully, Adam will be able to fulfill her dream,” says Meriem. Through this simple story, Adam hopes to inspire other children to contribute towards a peaceful world. March 2016 59

interview

ounded in Munich, Germany, in April 2007, InterNations is the brainchild of Malte along with friends Philipp von Plato and Christian Leifeld. A social and business networking organisation, it is the largest global network and information site for people who live and work abroad. Malte, 39, explains the group’s beginnings: “I met Philipp at the University of St Gallen in Switzerland in 1997. We became close friends as we shared the experience of living abroad in an international environment. After graduation we parted ways, pursuing our individual careers, myself travelling and working as an international television reporter in Europe, India and Brazil while Philipp, an entrepreneur, embarked on a career as a consultant for global blue chip companies in Germany, the UK and Croatia. We met again in Germany in 2007 where we realised that, despite several years apart and different career paths, we both shared the experience of being an expat. “Having lived and worked abroad, like many other expatriates, we noticed how tiring and time-consuming it could be to gather all the necessary information before moving to another country and to build up a network of social and professional contacts at a new location. This is how we came up with the idea to create a platform where people who were in the same situation could share their experiences and learn about the different countries and cities. “We met with our friend Christian Leifeld in an attic apartment in Cologne to discuss our idea. We then organised a boot camp in an old castle where we developed our vision and drafted the first version of the InterNations website with a detailed business plan. In May 2007 InterNations was founded and within a couple of years it has grown from a network of friends living abroad to the number one community for expats and global minds worldwide.” Nine years on and Philipp and Malte are co-CEOs of the brand. Launched with eight employees and 4,000 registered members, InterNations has grown massively. Earlier this year it recorded its two millionth member and now employs around 100 people, with InterNations communities in 390 cities and 166 countries worldwide, the top communities being in London, Dubai, Munich, Singapore and Paris. Membership is free by approval and those interested in joining can register at www. internations.org. For a small fee you can upgrade to Albatross membership which gives added benefits. There are official monthly events, organised by volunteer ambassadors, 60 March 2016

Malte Zeeck and Philipp von Plato

WORLDWIDE NETWORKING LIZ O’REILLY Malte Zeeck, co-founder of global networking group InterNations, is heading to the island this month. BTM caught up with him to learn how the group has gone from 4,000 members to two million in under 10 years. as well as special interest groups which stage regular activities. Malte continues: “In many InterNations communities there is a hiking group, a group for art lovers, one for language exchanges, one for business networking and one for parents and children, just to name a few examples.” Asked to cite the milestone developments over the years, Malte is quick to reel off an impressive growth list. “In 2008, the first InterNations official events took place in Munich, Zurich and Madrid, organised with the help of our local volunteers. “In 2009, we gained our first advertising partner and also successfully introduced the Albatross premium membership model, giving InterNations a solid revenue stream to also grow financially. In 2011, the InterNations country and city guides and InterNations Expat Magazine were launched, providing members with essential information about their expat destinations. Later in 2012, InterNations groups were introduced and this gave members the

opportunity to organise their own, smaller activities based on common interests. “InterNations reached one million members in 2013 and a presence in 390 cities worldwide. In 2014 and 2015, a comprehensive website relaunch was kicked off, focusing on enhanced usability and preparing the way for mobile access. Now in 2016, we have welcomed two million members.” So what’s left for the brand that’s gone from local to global in less than a decade? “Aside from attracting more members and expanding our brand awareness, one of the biggest projects that we are working on is our mobile app. Our overall goal is ultimately to make life easier for expats and to be the place where expats across the globe come to network, socialise, and find trustworthy information.” Malte Zeeck will be at the March 3 meeting of Bahrain InterNations community organised by ambassadors Burak Aydin and Hanan Abu Hadba at WU Restaurant at ART Rotana. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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REVISITING AN OLD FRIEND CHARLIE HOLDING The new Volkswagen Passat has arrived in Bahrain with an aggressive new design, a combination of great features and innovative technology.

t’s been six years since I last drove a Volkswagen Passat, and after spending a day in the 2016 model, it felt like catching up with an old friend. So, what’s the new Passat all about? Well, in a word, evolution. It is available in the Kingdom in four configurations – S, SE, SEL and Sport – and features more aggressive styling than its predecessor, with a new bonnet, front fenders, grille, front and rear bumpers, boot lid and LED headlights and taillights. Inside, the 2016 Passat showcases an extensively upgraded interior, for a more sophisticated look and feel, including a new steering wheel, two-tone panels and a refined chrome and piano black trim. The model definitely boasts a more chic feel and the second-generation in-car infotainment system – MIB II by Volkswagen – is a welcome addition. The system features touchscreens as standard and, on most models, the display utilises a capacitive touch sensor enabling gesture controls like swiping and pinch-zooming rather than the resistive touchscreens that require pressure. USB and www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bluetooth connectivity are standard on all 2016 Passat models. One of the things I enjoyed most about this model is the fantastic sound system. I wouldn’t call myself a musician but I play a little guitar (it’s a euphemism, not a ukulele) and the Fender nine-speaker system in the Passat is amazing. Crystal-clear sound that goes all the way to 11 ensures you can enjoy whatever music you love, nice and loud. When it comes to the drive, the Passat delivers everything you’d expect and more. Under the bonnet of the model I drove was a 2.5-litre engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This fuel-efficient powerplant serves up a hefty dose of power when you need it most. Handling is impressive and the steering is particularly responsive when taking corners or navigating a roundabout. The ride is smooth and comfortable, thanks in no small part to the numerous electronic seating configurations. To label this mid-sized sedan as a family car, in my opinion, is a mistake because it offers so much more. It has an aggressive look, ample

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power and a slew of available options. With that being said, there are a number of features that make it an ideal family ride, such as the motion sensor that opens the boot with nothing more needed than passing your foot in its proximity. Safety is an important factor and this model offers a combination of new safety and driverassistance systems. The Automatic PostCollision Braking System builds on the premise that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact — which can cause additional collisions. The system helps address this by applying the brakes after a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus helping to reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, reducing the chance of additional damage. The Passat is a model with the power to surprise and I’d highly recommend that you visit Volkswagen Bahrain for a test drive of your own. Prices start from BD8,800. Visit www.facebook.com/ volkswagenbahrain or follow on Instagram: VolkswagenBH March 2016 63

bystander

Staff Party

Motorcity held its annual staff party at the ART Rotana Hotel & Resort, in recognition of employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; efforts. Management and staff at the event

Trevor, Lindy & Dina

Mike, Waleed Kanoo & Bijan

Adel, Grant, Brett & Mike

Paul, Vivek & Murali

Mohammed, Agnelo & Savish

Suresh, Praveen & Achu

Vivek, Venugopal & Arun

Rashad Janahi, Ayman, & Khalid Kanoo

Arun & Nestle

Sumesh, Vipin, Ramesh & Ratheesh

Hamdi

Dr Amal

Fatema

Tennis Match The final match and the closing ceremony of the 4th Ebrahim K Kanoo Juniors Tennis Championship was held at the Bahrain Tennis Club in Juffair. A player in action

64 March 2016

Tanya, Angie & baby

Mohammed & Muhannad

Khalid & Rony

Abdulrahman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring EK KANOO

A Global Hybrid Icon

Driving a hybrid just got more exciting with this fourth generation model, which marks its maiden entry into the Middle East market.

66 March 2016

The Toyota Prius was the world’s first massproduced hybrid vehicle and, since its inception, has won over legions of fans including Hollywood A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio. The iconic vehicle made its Bahrain debut during a sophisticated event at the EK Kanoo showroom recently, much to the delight of fans and environmentally-conscious drivers in the Kingdom. The Prius is by far the world’s most successful hybrid car and one that is winning hearts with its exceptional environmental performance and sleek new design. The model remains Toyota’s technological ambassador, a showcase for new, relevant technologies that raise levels of safety, convenience, driving experience and comfort. However, the Prius is more than just an eco-friendly car – it offers style, ease of use and real driving pleasure. A culmination of almost two decades of experience and development, the Prius is the perfect

expression of the marque’s philosophy of creating “ever better cars”. Ismail Akbar, executive general manager of sales at EK Kanoo, says: “The new Toyota Prius is set to wow drivers in Bahrain with its ground-breaking environmental performance, a bold new design and a fun-to-drive spirit. We will see more of Prius – the number one hybrid in the world – making a statement on the streets of the Kingdom. “Ebrahim K. Kanoo continues to satisfy customers’ needs and exceed their expectations with top-of-theline products and vehicles. Today, with the fuel price increases and the cost of servicing rising, this innovative hybrid technology guarantees to save you money and lower your maintenance costs while ensuring a quiet and pleasant ride. What’s more, the new Prius is capable of 1,100 kilometres per tank with as low as just BD7 to fill.” The Prius gasoline engine teams up with its electric motor to offer the best features of both. The gasoline engine is 1.8-litre VVT-i that has been completely re-engineered, with remarkable results in terms of performance and fuel economy. The new engine achieves a maximum thermal efficiency of 40 per cent – the world’s highest level in a mass-produced gasoline engine. The maximum output of 97bhp is delivered at 5,200rpm, while the electric motor delivers 71bhp. The Prius can be driven completely on electrical power with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions, or with a combination of the electric motor and gasoline engine, depending on your driving behaviour. The hybrid batteries are charged continuously when braking and decelerating – so you don’t need to plug in a power cord and it doesn’t require any special fuel, yet drives like any other conventional car. And, of course, you can say goodbye to those frequent stops for gasoline fill-ups. Safety remains a top priority, with the TNGA-based chassis optimised for excellent impact performance along with an impressive array of active and passive features. The vehicle is available in seven exciting exterior hues: Attitude Black Mica, Dark Blue Mica Metallic, Grey Metallic, Silver Metallic, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Super White and Emotional Red. The car’s interior is available in two colours, Cool Grey and Black. The Toyota Prius comes standard with an eightyear/160,000km battery warranty and is offered with a free one year/20,000km service package. Visit the Toyota showroom in Sitra, call 17 730-730 or visit toyota.com.bh/hybrid or toyota.com.bh/prius. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Toyota Launch E K Kanoo launched the new Toyota Prius at an event held at the Toyota showroom in Sitra Management at the launch

Mark, Ammar & Trevor

Ayman & Maissa

Idris, Cristy, Chintan & Supratam

Rotary Fundraiser

Kansho, Wada, Kikuchi & Kenta

Bisan, Asma & Maissa

Waleed Kanoo & Khalid Kanoo

Roderick, Noor, Farhana, Shilpa & Hitesh

Rotary Club of Manama held its annual six-a-side fundraiser football tournament at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club. Rotary members having fun

Kayla, George & Hameed

Natasha, Mahmood, Marjan, Kahlid & Yahia

68 March 2015

Angella, Hugo & Julian

Tone & Ann

Megan, Fifi & Helen

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VolkswagenBahrain

Introducing the new Passat. The perfect family car, perfected.

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motoring

AL HADDAD MOTORS

A Racy Little Number! Following a comprehensive upgrade, this model opens up a new dimension in vehicle dynamics.

70 March 2016

The Mercedes-AMG A 45 4MATIC is more than just a pretty face; it’s the world’s most powerful compact performance car. Moreover, it opens up AMG to a host of potential new customers who previously might have been unable to afford a vehicle from the marque’s racy range. With peak output of 381bhp and a maximum torque of 475Nm, there’s no denying the capability of this model, which also boasts Mercedes’ all-wheel drive system to provide exceptional grip. The revised gear ratios, aerodynamic fine-tuning and the new DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes raise overall performance to a higher level, underlining the claim to leadership in this market segment. The compact saloon absolves a sprint from standstill to 100kmph in 4.2 seconds, 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing model. At the same time fuel consumption has remained as before: no other high-performance model in this class can better its NEDC fuel consumption from 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres (corresponding to 162 g/km CO2). “We never rest on our laurels, but constantly strive to develop our products further,” says Graeme Newport, general manager of Mercedes-Benz Bahrain. “The A 45 still had so much improvement potential that we felt compelled to realise it to the full. Our brand claim simply obliges us to.” Inside is a classy affair that reflects the racing heritage of the brand though sporty touches such as bucket racing seats, racing steering wheel and a range of driver assistance programmes. The dash is dominated by leather and the infotainment system is everything customers have come to expect from Mercedes-Benz.

Modifications to the A 45 AMG 4MATIC transmission, suspension, electronics, design and appointments have turned the compact performance car into what feels like a completely new model. The engine specialists at AMG mainly achieved an increase in power output with a newly configured valve assembly. In addition, the combustion processes have been optimised by reconfigured timing and turbocharging. Mercedes believes that a precise and meticulous approach to manufacturing is the best way to guarantee top performance. That is why every single AMG engine is built applying the same philosophy: One Man, One Engine. Everything from the first piston to the last bolt is the work of one AMG technician and all work stages are subject to the stringent Mercedes-Benz quality criteria. In the final stage the master mechanic personally installs an engraved placard bearing his signature – one man’s personal assurance of quality and the mark of the company’s uncompromising commitment to precision and performance. On the road, the turbocharged AMG 2.0-litre fourcylinder engine thrills with extremely fast responses to accelerator movements, high torque, enormous flexibility and an emotional engine note. The system features an automatically controlled exhaust flap as standard. And, as an added bonus, the emotional appeal of the engine sound can be varied depending on driving mode or at the touch of a button. Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Invest in aerodynamic art. The CLA CoupĂŠ. CLA 250 4Matic 4 Cylinders, with Active Parking, Reversing Camera, AMG Line, Collision Prevention Assist+ and many more options. Call 17785454 and Book your test drive now.

Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973) 17785454 marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com

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Suzuki Car Launch

Mohammed Jalal & Sons launched the latest Suzuki Vitara at City Centre Bahrain. Management and staff at the launch

Ian Johnston, Ahmed Jalal & Jamal Al Sayed

Rea

Marise & Parvanah

Hassan bin Mujle, HE Dr Azzi, Nejeeb & Dr Mounir

Imtiaz & Sayed Jalal

Mohammed Hans, Mohammed Baba & Jalil Al Ansari

Socotra Fundraiser The Arab Regional Center for World Heritage (UNESCO) in Bahrain held a charity evening to raise funds for the Yemeni island of Socotra, a World Natural Heritage Site. The event was held in association with the Alliance FranĂ§aise and under the patronage of the German Embassy. HE Dr Azzi Shreim, Yemeni Minister of Environment & Water

Talal Al Shaher, Christophe Freschi & Zied Jalali

72 March 2016

Elie & Dominique

Nejib Friji, HE Simon Martin & Sophia

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauldFabre

Pascal

Haifa

Perwin & HE Alfred-Simmz Protz

Diane & Loredana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring INTERNATIONAL MOTOR TRADING AGENCY

Making an Impression!

This flagship sedan has won the coveted 2016 China Car of The Year Award, beating out major international rivals and providing a major boost to the reputation of Chinese cars. Geely’s Emgrand GT scooped top position in the competition, which saw 140 cars undergo extensive road tests with three rounds of voting to eliminate contenders. The first-placed Emgrand GT scored a total of 104 points, the Daimler Maybach S-Class came in second with 61 points and the Jaguar XE came in third with 55 points. Ironically, this year marked the first time a Chinese vehicle has been entered into the competition. A media panelist says: “The Emgrand GT winning this award shows that Chinese brands are improving rapidly. By working with international talent, Geely Auto is producing increasingly competitive cars. The Emgrand GT left a strong impression on the judges in terms of design, engineering and handling.” The China Car of the Year Award was established in 2012 by a group of Chinese media in partnership with public relations consultancy Prime Research. The 2016 panel was made up of 22 chief editors, CEOs and chairmen of major Chinese automotive media publications, including Car Owners, Auto Fan and the Chinese edition of Car Magazine. Meanwhile, Geely has introduced a new GC7 to Bahrain. It comes equipped with a 1.8-litre engine, six-speed automatic transmission, sunroof, leather seats, Bluetooth, navigation, reverse camera and more available features.

The GC7 is a high-performance sedan that is smart, comfortable and reliable, its makers say. A perfect ride in the city and a comfortable journey during long drives, the GC7 is your perfect companion. Geely is a leading automotive company that prides itself in providing affordable, safe, energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly cars. As one of China’s top auto manufacturers, the brand has grown steadily to cater to the varied needs and lifestyles of customers the world over. A fully integrated independent auto firm, Geely is committed to quality and excellence at every stage, right from design, research and development to production, distribution and servicing. Call 36 288-004, 36 288-665, 17 680-110 or visit www.geely.kekanoo.com. Download Geely Bahrain’s application on Android and Apple phones.

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Marassi Weekends Marassi Al Bahrain is holding fun outdoor activities for kids and parents every weekend at its beach waterfront. Rosemary & Daniela

Sergio

Adele & Linton

Ricardo & Sarah

Martha

celebrated his birthday with close Tassosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday Tassos friends at Mezzaluna, Adliya. Dana & Tassos

Panos & Yiannis

Catherine & Susan

Alketbi, Elina, Iro, Nadi & Sebahat

Marsha

74 March 2015

Dana & Natalia

Philip & Ryan

Anna & Sami

Jin & Akis

Eleana

Maria & Paulina

Carine & Irene

Gardinia

Dina, Reena, Maria & Mona

Maha

Reem, John, Marwa & Samer

Amira

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2016sportsvehicles

Life in the Fast Lane! BTM rounds up the latest deals and offerings in the sports vehicle sector in the Kingdom. There’s no denying the appeal of sports cars. They’re sleek, attractive and powerful, which makes them an ideal choice for petrolheads. Fortunately, Bahrain has no shortage of dealers who offer a wide selection of these mean machines with attractive packages and options. Euro Motors: Ferrari, Maserati, Jaguar and BMW. • Ferrari – Some of the most popular models in Bahrain include the California T and the 488 GTB. This month sees the launch of the 488 Spider and there are also plans to launch the FF GTC4Lusso later on in the year. Customers looking for a used Ferrari can rely on the Ferrari Approved programme which certifies and guarantees the excellent quality of the vehicles on offer. An approved vehicle also comes with a Ferrari warranty of up to 24 months, unlimited mileage for one year and roadside assistance for one year, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

a shortened platform of the XK convertible. It is the spiritual successor to the famous E-Type. The entry-level model uses Jaguar’s new 3-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine. In the middle comes the F-Type S, with the same engine tuned for 375bhp that does 0-100kmph in 4.8 seconds. The top of the range model is the V8 S, with Jaguar’s 5-litre, 488bhp supercharged petrol engine. • BMW – BMW M series was initially created to facilitate the marque’s racing programme. As time passed, BMW M began to supplement BMW’s vehicles portfolio with specially modified higher trim models, for which they are now most known by the general public. These M-badged cars traditionally include modified engines, transmissions, suspensions, interior trims, aerodynamics and exterior modifications to set them apart from their counterparts.

• Maserati – The most popular selling model in Bahrain is the GranTurismo Sport, a two-door, four-seat coupé. Maserati Bahrain is offering a special deal on 2015 models that includes five years’ warranty/unlimited mileage, five years’ 100,000km service package, one-year insurance and one-year registration.

Almoayyed Motors: Ford The most popular Ford models on sale are the Mustang and Shelby; both have a reputation for their spirited drive and seductive looks. The Mustang created the ‘pony car’ class of American automobiles – sports-car-like coupes with long bonnets and short rear decks. The company has used cars division – Ford Approved Cars – and also boasts a facility which combines sales, service, parts and showroom all in one space.

• Jaguar – In Bahrain, one of the most sought after models is the F-Type – a powerful, agile, and distinctive car. It is a two-seater, based on

EK Kanoo: Lexus Lexus is renowned for its luxury, highperformance vehicles with the RC200t, RC 350,

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RCF and GSF being some of the most popular. The Lexus GSF combines a luxury cruiser with the handling of a sports car and is the latest vehicle to join the company’s high-performance F lineage. Motorcity: Subaru Don’t let the stoic letters fool you. The Subaru STI WRX, WRX and BRZ are passionate vehicles that deliver a dynamic and exhilarating drive – which is why they are the popular models at the Bahrain showroom. The two-seater BRZ is a top-selling model, which uses the boxer engine and a rear-wheeldrive structure. Behbehani Brothers: Porsche Porsche is a German automobile manufacturer that needs no introduction. It specialises in high-performance sports cars and has a reputation for producing some of the finest vehicles on the road today. In Bahrain the brand has a strong presence and some of the hottest-selling models are the iconic 911, the Cayman and the Boxster. Porsche has a used car programme, ‘Porsche Approved’ and all vehicles come with a minimum of a one year warranty. March 2016 75

2016sportsvehicles MASERATI GTS

Italian Innovation at its Finest CHARLIE HOLDING There’s something intrinsically appealing about Italy: the language, the art, the fashion and, oh yes, the cars! Maserati is a sports car that needs no introduction. However, for the sake of quality journalism, I guess I should at least try to give it one … When passion meets performance it’s a winning combination that results in something special – the Maserati GTS. This Italian stallion has a reputation for delivering a powerful, visceral drive and, after spending a day taking it around the island; I can honestly say it’s well-deserved. The visual appeal of the GTS is undeniable. Sleek curves and striking proportions immediately grab your attention, but the real beauty is that form follows function. On either side of the traditional Maserati oval radiator grille are two innovative large air intakes, which not only improve the airflow and the cooling of the front brakes, but also act as a

76 March 2016

stylistic junction between the central grille and the light assemblies. The model I drove had a vibrant, red leather interior; each part stitched with precision and care to create a stunning cabin. Bucket seats add to the racy appeal and also provide comfort during long drives. It has all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a supercar including, Bluetooth telecommunication, MP3 player and standard CD and AM/ FM radio. A GTS commands two things: respect and attention, both of which were provided in bountiful supply. During my drive, the roaring engine note was more than enough to alert other motorists of my presence and most of them were quick to change lanes so they could watch me pass. Even being stuck at a traffic light is a joy in this car. While waiting for the green, those in cars beside me shot across envious glances (I must admit, I secretly love that) until I shot off like a bolt of lightning, did I mention the car’s exterior was electric blue? The GTS carries a Ferrari-designed and

-built 4.7-litre V8 engine that makes the dash from 0-100kmph in 4.7 seconds, but the beauty of this car isn’t based so much on facts and figures, it’s about emotion – how brilliantly Italian! Thanks to a selection of driving modes and a tiptronic gearbox, the experience can be changed to deliver the ride you desire. I personally prefer manual shifting, which is great fun when you use the paddle shifters, although there is also a traditional gearstick. During my test drive I put the GTS through its paces on the highway and had plenty of opportunities to make the most of the phenomenal acceleration. The drive is smooth, controlled and responsive, and, with a simple push of the sport mode button, this model really comes to life. The steering becomes stiffer, the throttle response is sharper and the engine note becomes considerably throatier. When you drive a Maserati GTS, you don’t just get a ride, you get an experience that stays with you long after the drive is over.

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EURO MOTORS

Performance Meets Capability These sleek new models combine the spirit of M tradition sports cars with the impressive functionality of the X model range.

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The new BMW X5M and BMW X6M have arrived in the Middle East, much to the delight of enthusiasts across the Kingdom. Combining high-performance engineering with everyday practicality, these models are set to further strengthen the marque’s presence in the region. These second-generation models follow on from their 2009 predecessors and set the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics in the high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) segments. The striking M design and distinctive interior of the two newest additions to the BMW M GmbH stable ensure that these models make an impact. Drivers can take advantage of the BMW X5M and X6M’s latest-generation 4.4-litre V8 engine, which uses innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology to push torque and output to even higher performance levels. With the new M TwinPower Turbo technology, the new X5M and X6M have the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel-drive vehicle – 575bhp. The engine rockets these models from 0-100kmph in 4.2 seconds through the standard eight- speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The top speed is limited to 250kmph and fuel consumption and CO2 levels of both models have been reduced by 20 per cent. The M instrument cluster, M leather steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles and M gearshift lever – which works in the same way as the familiar

M Double Clutch Transmission – are complemented by electrically operated M sports seats for the driver and front passenger, an M driver’s footrest and the optional Head-Up Display which, in addition to the standard system, includes an M-specific display with gear indicator, rev band and shift lights. Additional interior options include the Merino full-leather trim and M multifunction seats. Customers can also enjoy further customisation with BMW ‘Individual’s’ range of exclusive paint finishes like the Azurite Black metallic and Pyrite Brown metallic. Other options from the collection include the roof liner available in Alcantara Smoke White, Alcantara Scotch Dark and Alcantara Anthracite and the three interior trims: Piano Finish Black, Sen Light Brown fine wood and Ash Volcano Brown fine wood. Call 17 750-750. March 2016 77

bystander

Shaikh Abdulaziz Al Jamaz & Shaikh Nasser Al Jammaz

Mohammed Yateem & Mohammed Hussain

Mohammed Buzizi

Waleed Al Kooheji & Yousif Zayani

Ron Peters & Adel Kanoo

Fawzi Kanoo

Asdal Gulf Inn Opening HE Zayed Alzayani, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, inaugurated the new Asdal Gulf Inn, Seef. The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Hazem & Ryan

78 March 2016

Aqeel Raees

George & Hans Radek

Maher & HE Simon Martin

Garfield Jones

Marc

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

Flask Tie

Handbag Hero

This nifty item of attire allows any professional in a working environment to grab some discreet refreshment. Dying of thirst in a business meeting? Take a sip of water from your tie! It holds approximately 450ml, which can be accessed via the permanently fitted plastic spill-proof straw.

This is a stylish accessory that saves time by making your keys immediately accessible. It attaches to your bag handle via a circular carabiner clip. Simply tug the Hero to retrieve your keys. It is long enough to reach the lock without the need for you to remove it from your handbag.

Portable Door Alarm Wedge This device gives you added security when wedging the door during sleep. Those who live in shared accommodation may crave a little privacy, or those who live alone may wish to sleep easier. The wedge slips under the inside of a door so that any unwanted visitors will set off a 130dB alarm alerting neighbours and preventing the door from being opened.

Digital Luggage Scale These scales allow you to pack your bags with confidence, because this device gives you the exact weight of your suitcase every time! No more panicking at the check-in desk and stuffing as much as possible into your hand-luggage. The scale is safe and easy to use – insert the scale belt through the handle of your luggage, lift it up and the LCD screen will display the weight up to 50kg.

Golf Umbrella with Score Counter Keeps score of the whole round – all nine or 18 holes – and fits snugly into the handle of the umbrella, which also contains a digital clock so you can time how long each shot is taking. The brolly has a black and white double canopy to protect you from the elements and is lightweight, so won’t add much weight to your golf bag.

Scribble Alarm Clock If you are constantly getting great ideas late at night whilst drifting off to sleep, then the Scribble Alarm Clock is the perfect bedside accessory for you. This simple yet clever device will beautifully illuminate your notes/scribbles/drawings with a simple touch, and can be wiped off with a dry cloth when done. It also features a backlit LCD scrolling pixel display showing time, temperature, year and date, countdown timer, calendar, birthday reminder, three different alarm melodies, and the allimportant snooze function.

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Polar Pen This gadget is perfect for those who easily get bored or can’t keep their hands still while at work or school. The Polar Pen comprises 13 neodymium magnets to attach or detach to your heart’s content – it works great as a pen, a touchscreen stylus or as a plaything.

Big Eye Wi-Fi Spy Tank This beast features a moveable camera and is controllable from an iOS or Android device. It creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you to control it both indoors and out, plus it even has a night vision mode so you can carry on driving even when it’s dark. Not only that, but you can use it as a drivable walkie-talkie as well as letting you record videos and upload photos via email or various social networks once they have been saved to your device.

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music

Rihanna - Anti What’s the story?

Work on Anti began in the autumn of 2014 and proceeded in semi-public, progress being measured in Instagram posts and tweets, along with intermittent singles, each released to white-hot anticipation but none metamorphosing into massive hits. When Anti finally appeared last month after numerous delays, it bore none of these 2015 singles, a move that suggests a tacit acknowledgment that they failed to function as appropriate anchors for the album.

Worth a listen?

Anti feels like the first of Rihanna’s records to be constructed as a cover-to-cover album. It makes a massive difference. Let’s face it, whatever the Barbadian demigod puts out will sell by the container-load, so it’s refreshing to see her put together a sustained album rather than assembling the hit singles on a disc and throwing in a few afterthoughts to act as filler. This is an album whose heart lies within its deep cuts. Mood matters more than either hooks or rhythm: it’s a subdued, simmering affair, its songs subtly shaded yet interlocked to create a vibe caught halfway between heartbreak and worldweariness. Her voice has wonderful variation, from hoarse and ravaged to controlled and precise. Honing these imperfections leads her performance to echo classic soul while feeling fresh. Allowing herself to be unguarded and anti-commercial results in the most compelling and interesting Rihanna record to date.

Daughtry - It’s Not Over: The Hits So Far A decade after Chris Daughtry rose to fame on the fifth season of American Idol, his band has finally amassed enough hits to create a collection. So, shamelessly, without wasting any time, here it is! This 13-track collection doesn’t contain every Daughtry single, but it has all the big rock hits. These include the group’s most famous tracks It’s Not Over, Home and Over You. Two new songs inevitably appear, just to entice the existing fans to shell out yet again mostly for songs they already own. To be fair, Torches is a strong effort which plays to the band’s stadium anthem sound, while Go Down takes a strange and frankly shocking detour into disco, which should have been firmly left on the cutting room floor. New fans will find the highlights here and enjoy it, but hardcore fans are probably best saving their money. 80 March 2016

Verdict: A terrific record touched with tragedy.

Bloc Party - Hymns At the end of last year, Bloc Party fired two original members and rebuilt. Listening to Hymns, it seems the band’s entire musical direction has been fired too. Long gone are the frenetic rock-disco beats, in this sombre, haunted record that is about as ready to party as a man waking up in a skip on New Year’s Day with an empty wallet and a severe headache. The album is so drenched in quasi-religious themes and tones that you wouldn’t be surprised if it wasn’t recorded in the Vatican. After standout track The Love Within casts music as religion, things take a preachy turn as the lyrics ponder on spiritual dislocation and talk of partners as saviours. It’s easy to read Hymns, with its broken tone and tales of disintegration, as Bloc Party’s break-up album, with lead singer Kele Okereke torn between the Bible and the bottle over the splintering of his band. As devastating as this must have been for the group, it’s a blessing for listeners, with this resulting thoughtful, immersive and utterly compelling effort.

Flowers - Everybody’s Dying to Meet You After a debut album that found the young London trio Flowers finding their feet, their second album shows some newfound confidence along the way to becoming a marked improvement. With textbook pop guitar attacks balanced by peaceful interludes that allow Rachel Kenedy’s ethereal vocals to float uninhibited, the basic template the band employs remains the same. This time out, though, the guitars have more crunch and the vocals are even more weightless, plus the songs are a little snappier. The best moments are those when the pounding drums and fuzzed-out guitars capture Kenedy’s vocals and they all work together to create an engaging swirl of sound, like album highlight Bitter Pill. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games review Game: The Witness Rating:*****

What is it?

This game is the creation of Jonathan Blow, the genius developer behind one of the most thought-provoking indie games of recent times, Braid. His second game has been gestating for a long time, but The Witness delivers on its multiple delays and subsequent increase in hype. The story is simple (and fairly minimal throughout, unless you dig very deeply into its secrets): you wake up on an island with no memory of who you are or why you are there. The landscape is dotted with more than 650 puzzles, which are placed in themed areas such as a castle, a desert ruin, a hybrid laboratory-art gallery, and more.

Gameplay:

Verdict: Brain-bending logic puzzles provide a fantastic challenge.

Throughout The Witness, you explore an open world island filled with natural and man-made structures. Progression occurs by solving puzzles, which are based on interactions with mazes presented on panels around the island or hidden within the environment. Players have to determine the rules of each puzzle from visual clues and audio recordings scattered around the island. Blow created the game with the philosophy of wanting players to have epiphanies in finding solutions, which leads to a greater sense of involvement and accomplishment with each success, and he was correct. Rarely, if ever, has video game puzzle-solving felt so fulfilling.

Firewatch

Firewatch is a mystery set in the woods of Wyoming, where your only emotional lifeline is your supervisor Delilah who is on the other end of a handheld radio. You play as a man named Henry who has retreated from his messy life to work as a fire lookout in the wilderness. Perched high atop a mountain, it’s your job to look for smoke and keep the wilderness safe. An especially hot and dry summer has everyone on edge. But when something strange draws you out of your lookout tower and into the world, you’ll explore a wild and unknown environment, facing questions and making interpersonal choices that can build or destroy the only meaningful relationship you have. 82 March 2016

Graphics:

Admittedly, graphics is not one of the main priorities with a game like this, where atmosphere and, obviously, the puzzles themselves are in the mind’s eye. However, the island still looks beautiful and serene, with the bright colours and high saturation, which eerily provides a type of optimism to the player. Even if you’re stumped for hours on a puzzle, there’s literally light at the end of the tunnel, and a lot of it! Each individual area has its unique quirks and identifiable objects that add to the environment, so even though the island has many different areas, you never feel like you’re lost or lacking direction.

The Walking Dead: Michonne

Stepping into the lead role of Michonne, actress Samira Wiley portrays the iconic character from the comic book series, haunted by her past and coping with unimaginable loss and regret in this three-part adventure series. The story explores her untold journey during the time between issues #126 and #139. Through this series, players will discover what took Michonne away from Rick, Ezekiel and the rest of her trusted group – and what brought her back.

Unravel

Unravel introduces Yarny, an endearing character made from a single thread of yarn, that slowly unravels as you move. Inspired by the unique and breath-taking environments of Northern Scandinavia, Unravel is a visually stunning, physicsbased puzzle platformer. Using yarn to swing from branch to branch or hitch a ride on a flying kite, no feat is too big. Yarny is brought to life as the representation of the ties that bind loved-ones together, and the frame sees you embark with Yarny on an adventure to reconnect the long-lost memories of a family. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

websites

VERDICT:

Site: www.dearphotograph.com/ Rating:*****

A beautiful and vivid nostalgia trip.

Retro Party

Brazil Lounge held a retro party featuring DJ Nab. DJ Nab

What is it?

A website that shows a collection of images with one theme: taking an old favourite photograph and going back to the same spot it was taken. What you get is a small wormhole that brings the past into the present, taken all over the world by people willing to share their memories.

Adi, Ding & San

Mohammed & Paula

Dee, Mo & Anna

Bill & Greg

The Good

Some photos seem sweet, some are nostalgic, some are full of regret, and some of the photos are giddy with the foolishness of youth. Whatever it is, it really stirs an emotional reaction, which is incredible from such a simple, straightforward idea. If pictures are worth a thousand words, DearPhotograph makes them worth 10,000.

The Bad Browsing the website for too long could lead you to shed a few tears, which will either make you the ridicule of your office if you’re male, or ruin your make-up if you’re a female. It’ll also lead to a sharp decline in workplace productivity as you’ll be hooked.

www.biodigital.com The BioDigital Human represents the most sophisticated, interactive, 3D virtual human body platform available. This medically-accurate virtual body map allows users to explore detailed anatomy, fitness, and health conditions, remove layers to visualise animated diseases’ progress, and virtually take a tour of the human body. It can be used by educators, aspiring medical professionals, or just the generally curious alike.

Mona & Gerryl

Jo, Cynthia & Natasha

www.manetas.com/pollock/ Have you ever wanted to just splatter paint everywhere, purely because it’s fun? Now you can! This website is perfect if you are having a really tedious day, or you really just want to unwind and have some fun. At first, you may think that your computer isn’t loading the website, but it already has. The blank white screen is yours to have fun with. Move your mouse around to splatter paint, or left click to change the colour. Despite its simplicity, it’s surprisingly diverse and incredibly addictive.

Ameen, Peyman & Zall

Aise & Freddy

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Ana & Martin

Racine, Seitu & Caroline

March 2016 83

apps

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

What is it? Strava is a great tool for runners and cyclists. It lets you create, find and follow routes, track your speed, distance, pace and elevation. For competitive runners and cyclists, the app provides leaderboards, personal records and comparisons with friends and other app users.

The Good: Rather than just showing your route and times, this app goes a step further by driving a competitive edge. The interface is excellent and really simple to use despite having a plethora of options and menus. It also supports Bluetooth devices, so you can hook up a heart rate monitor to it if you have one. The GPS and mapping are also spot on for planning routes.

App: Strava Rating:*****

The Bad:

Verdict: A handy app for buying local wares, but it has some self-imposed

limitations.

You can only unlock the full potential of the app by buying the premium version. Although the base version still has a lot of features, you’ll only find filtered leaderboards, daily progress tracking and long-term goal settings behind the paywall.

App: Evernote

App: Pocket

Evernote is an app focused on note taking and provides multiple digital ‘notebooks’ helping you to keep your thoughts tidy. It features simple to-do lists, a powerful search tool so you can easily find specific notes and the ability to sync between devices. It also lets you share your notes and collaborate on projects with others, easily track expenses and attach files, all through an attractive, clutterfree interface.

Life is busy and there’s not always time to read that article you spotted on your way to work this morning. Pocket solves that by allowing you to easily save webpages and videos for later, storing them all in one place. It’s much more than just a bookmarking system though, as it also makes them available offline, so you can catch up even if you don’t have an Internet connection. You can even synchronise your saved articles across every device you’ve installed Pocket on, allowing you to pick up where you left off and continue reading.

84 August 2015

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bystander

movies

VERDICT:

Film: The Revenant Rating: *****

An incredibly emotional and beautiful adventure.

AWA Ball The American Women’s Association hosted ‘A Night at the Oscars’, at the ART Rotana, Amwaj.

Shakeel & Cris

Diana & Lia

Directed by: Alejandro G. Iñárritu Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Domhnall Gleeson

The Plot:

While exploring the uncharted wilderness of the American north in 1823, legendary frontiersman Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) sustains injuries from a brutal bear attack. When his hunting team leaves him for dead, Glass must utilise his survival skills to find a way back home to his beloved family. Grief-stricken and fuelled by vengeance, Glass treks through the wintry terrain to track down John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy), the former confidant who betrayed and abandoned him.

JP & Jack Camilo & Gabriela

Worth Watching?

The perfect storm of acting, story and cinematography comes together in this incredible journey of one man’s will to survive. DiCaprio is brilliant, letting his actions speak louder than words as his fierce facial expressions and body language constitute the vast portion of his job here. Words are few and far between, oft spoken in native languages. Hardy is detestable as the villain, really making you want to reach through the screen and punch him, yourself. The visual direction is simply stunning. Those hours the crew filmed on location in sub-zero temperatures were completely worth it!

London Has Fallen

10 Cloverfield Lane

After the British Prime Minister has passed away under mysterious circumstances, all leaders of the Western world must attend his funeral. But what starts out as the most protected event on Earth, turns into a deadly plot to kill the world’s most powerful leaders and unleash a terrifying vision of the future. The President of the United States (Aaron Eckhart), his formidable secret service head (Gerard Butler) and an English MI-6 agent who trusts no one (Charlotte Riley) are the only people who have any hope of stopping it.

After much mystery on producer J. J. Abrams’ behalf, and much clamouring from his adoring fans, 2008 cult classic Cloverfield finally has what Abrams describes as a ‘blood relative’, although this isn’t a direct sequel. After surviving a car accident, a woman wakes up in an underground cellar, where most of the film takes place. She fears she has been abducted by a survivalist, who tells her he saved her life, and that a worldwide chemical attack has left Earth’s surface uninhabitable. Uncertain what to believe, she decides she must escape, no matter what dangers she may face outside.

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Michael & Sara

Rachel & Rafaela

Mario & Suzy

Kanky, Supatra & Mandy

Eric & Freeda

Ires, Valeria & Marise

Midori & Bill

Jack, Fabi & Silvana

March 2016 85

homefurnishings

Feel at Home It is important that your living space reflects your personality and outlook on life. After all, there is no place like home. Your home is your sanctuary. It’s a place to unwind at the end of a tiring day, spend time with friends and sometimes spend laid-back weekends in. All the more reason, that your living space should be an extension of your personal style. Not only will this make you feel happier and ‘at home’ in your private space, but it’ll also showcase your tastes, passions and creativity. Many of us live in rented spaces on the island, which we cannot make any major structural changes to. In such cases, a major change, such as adding arches, bay windows or a separate study is not an option. Sometimes, such large-scale changes are not financially feasible. There are, however, ways to make your home reflect your personality without breaking the bank. Simple additions to the living space can brighten up a room, add more functionality, or simply make the place feel more inviting.

bought a few years ago has begun to bore you, but you cannot budget for a new one this year. Instead of making big purchases, small spends go a long way. Think of adding a set of eye-catching armchairs to your living room. Go bold, and buy a pair that sits well in contrast to the existing furniture. If your sofas are a muted tone; bright blue, burgundy or green chairs will lift the seating area completely. For statement

armchairs, head to Artikel at Jawad Dome in Budaiya or Bo Concept in Seef. For a chair that comes with a great deal of utility, a massage chair from OSIM is a good buy. It will make a sleek addition to your drawing room and soothe tired muscles as well. To give your dining table a summer makeover, a set of contemporary, lemon yellow dining chairs from The One Basics is all it takes.

Have a Seat If you live in a fully furnished apartment, you may have to go along with the furnishings that it comes with. Or maybe, the sofa that you 86 March 2016

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Amp It Up with Accents Adding accents to your existing furnishings is easy, even if you are on a shoestring budget. Vibrant throws and cushions are a great addition to brighten up the seating area. A single mattress covered with a fitted sheet and dressed with inviting cushions can become an integral part of your seating arrangement, perfect for an informal get-together with friends or for reading your favourite book. Home Centre has a great selection of cushion covers and fitted sheets, ranging from classy to bohemian. To bring in a welcoming vibe and to pull your seating area together, there’s nothing like a rug that fits well into the scheme of things. Rugs at Roche Bobois range from the outlandish to the elegant.

into any room. An accent wall in your living room serves to define your space. It also has the ability to draw the spotlight to something that you want everybody to particularly notice – an antique wall hanging, precious souvenirs or a collection of family portraits. For a textured or patterned wall, wallpaper will lend an interesting take to your interiors.

Culinary Charm When the kitchen looks inviting, is in order and has a place for everything, cooking never feels like a chore. Whether you like to keep it traditional, or add contemporary pizzazz, kitchen solutions from Aran Cucine can transform your kitchen into a place you will definitely want to spend more time in.

Simply Hang It A house that has bare walls is nothing but brick and mortar. Adorn your walls with memories, souvenirs from your travels or just artefacts that have caught your fancy. Spirit Antiques at Enma Mall has an enchanting collection of wall hangings that inject character to your habitat. Quirky hooks available at The One Basics make for interesting wall hangings for your keys, coats and other nick knacks. Nothing makes a statement on your walls like a good timepiece. Look for clocks that say more than just the time. If you have a narrow nook, place a grandfather clock in it for a classy, vintage feel. For something more avante-garde, hang a ceiling-to-floor papier-mâché lamp to illuminate a dull corner. Wall Power A single wall painted a different hue from the rest is one of the best ways to breathe new life www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 87

homefurnishings ARAN CUCINE

Clever Kitchens The extensive range of designs and kitchen solutions that the brand provides are functional, elegant and tasteful. The products range from the contemporary to the traditional, and have numerous options to suit every need and preference. The contemporary range at Aran Cucine affords elegant design combined with practicality, utility and versatility. This range offers coloured finishes that illuminate the kitchen, and lend it an airy, spacious feel. If you like your kitchen to be a perfectly furnished, cosy space with a vintage vibe, then the traditional range of Aran designs is for you. This range offers a familiar environment and the convenience of a domestic setting, with warm colours, big cupboards, accurate finishes and useful accessories mixed along with the trademark Aran functionality and up-to-date technology. In keeping with the increasing demand, and to ensure customers the best service, Aran Cucine has created a dedicated division for contracts. It is aimed at providing direct assistance to customers, who have specific requirements in terms of flexibility, product, service, lead time, and pre- and post-sale support, whether the product they have chosen is standard or custom made. Over the years, the Aran Cucine brand has become synonymous with sophisticated Italian style, trustworthiness and reliability in luxurious residential complexes all over the world. Call 17 408-111.

The kitchen is the heart of any home and this upscale Italian brand can transform it to make you go ‘Mama mia’!

88 March 2016

Aran Cucine, a company from Abruzzo in Italy, is a leader in designing, manufacturing, selling and exporting custom-designed Italian kitchens to more than 120 countries spread over five continents around the world. The brand has made its presence felt in high profile residential spaces like 432 Park Avenue in posh Manhattan, New York, which is also the tallest residential building in the US. Several builders of top-end apartments in America have chosen the Aran brand as their ‘Made in Italy’ design icon; like the Trump Grande Ocean Resort & Residences, Skyline and The Bath Club to name a few. The brand has seen unprecedented expansion, and has now crossed the borders of the US to enter the markets of Uruguay, Panama, Toronto and the Far East. Builders from the Middle East have also become loyal clients of the ‘Made in Italy’ concept. The superior products and services of Aran Cucine are made available in Bahrain by one of the Kingdom’s leading business houses, Yusuf bin Yusuf Fakhro. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Hublot Preview

A road show press conference of Hublot Geneva Days 2016 Novelties was held at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, in the presence of Marco Tedeschi, regional director, Hublot Middle East and Africa. Noushad Abdul Hameed, Iqbal Dhanse, Marco Tedeschi, Abbas Shirazi, David Tedeschi & Sohail Imthyas

Tilly’s Concept

Ruby & May

Established as Bahrain’s first official urban concept store, Tilly’s Concept had its opening event at Seef Mall.

Mai & Hana

Hassan Jawad, Judith Jawad, Faisal Jawad, Sophia Jawad, Mai Al Moataz & Hana Tawfiqi

Mohammed, Ahmed & Adel

Wafa & Raneen

Haseen & Mudreka

Muna & Yasir

Haseen, Peter & Ruzbeh

Ram & Gowtham

MAK Launch Jawad Business Group launched MAK lubricants in Bahrain. The event was followed by dinner with K P Chandy, executive director (lubes), Bharat Petroleum, distributors, representatives of Jawad Business Group and Bahrain Commercial Services, and members of the press. Gowtham, K P Chandy & Ram

90 March 2016

Athul

Sajeesh

Naveen

Ramshi

Suresh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

homefurnishings SPIRIT FOR ANTIQUES & HANDICRAFTS

Carved with Passion Harmonise your living space and add a touch of global culture to your home with art pieces and rare artifacts from around the world. Our environment has a profound effect on the way we feel and live. Hence, humans have always surrounded themselves with objects of beauty. They say home is where the heart is, and if your heart is passionate about living or working in an inspiring atmosphere, then the way you embellish these spaces means everything. A newly established Bahrain-based brand, Spirit For Antiques & Handicrafts, understands this passion for interiors and presents unique products to suit every space and taste, offering a whole range of premium-quality and exclusively selected artifacts. The inspiring objets dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;art and handicraft items are all handmade by authentic artists using 100-per-cent-natural materials, making them one-of-a-kind, and not just replicas for mass production. Capturing the artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; spirit, every piece is crafted with passion and holds a high value of beauty, with a natural, elegant

www.bahrainthismonth.com

and fine finish. Products of different styles include natural wooden carvings of various animals and birds, with vibrantly mixed colours; pottery showcasing Islamic design; wall hangings of bespoke hand carved masks; antiques such as ancient Malian clay pottery; and a rare collection of Benin bronze pieces dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. The wide range of products also comprises Timor-style antique furniture; aged items made of recycled wood from old boats; as well as accessories including traditional art and original handicrafts. Each item in the collection is handpicked by the founder, Khalid Al Tahmazi, who is an artist in his own right and an avid appreciator of art. The store, located on the second floor of Enma Mall, introduces inspiring, original art, making it accessible and affordable and showcasing how cauthentic, antique pieces can add contrast and blend beautifully with modern interiors.

Call 77 721-112, visit www.facebook.com/ spiritantiquesbahrain or follow Titter and Instagram @spiritantiques.

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homefurnishings

OSIM

Come Home to Comfort In the busy pace of life, there’s little time to indulge in the luxury of a massage. But patented technology from this well known brand makes pampering yourself possible every day.

92 March 2016

There’s nothing like coming home to unwind after a hard day’s work. But the experience is all the sweeter if you have the range of OSIM massage gadgets waiting for you. A massage has tremendous therapeutic and psychological benefits, especially after prolonged standing or sitting, or even after strenuous exercise. The patented OSIM Human 3D Massage Chair beckons you into a world of complete relaxation. The strategically positioned airbags, kneading discs and automatic body detection provide the most precise massage based on the contours of the human body. No matter where you want to lounge around at home, carry the conveniently portable OSIM uCaress 3D massager with you. With ergonomic 3D massage nodes and a variety of programmes to choose from, this warmth emitting back massager gives deep tissue relief, loosening stiff and aching muscles in your neck, shoulders and back. The brand also offers a range of foot, eye and handheld massagers to suit your needs. Innovative fitness gadgets like the OSIM uShape and the OSIM uCorset make it easier to attain that svelte figure with minimal effort and time. The gadgets help to easily break down fatty tissues in key parts of the body – apt for time-strapped city dwellers. Along with rest and relaxation, it’s important to protect yourself and your family from dust, pollen, moulds, mites and other allergens in the air. An effective solution to this is the OSIM uVenus; the

world’s first ambient purifier. The multi-action tru-air purification system of the OSIM uVenus purifies stale indoor air, and provides clean fresh air for easy breathing and better health. Call 17 581-331 Seef Mall or 17 466-510 Seef Mall Muharraq, or visit www.osim.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Seef Mall Tel. 00973-17581331, Seef Mall Muharraq Tel. 00973-17466510 Email: osim@batelco.com.bh Web: http://www.osim.com

homefurnishings PHOENICIA DÉCOR

Honouring French Design A quality brand for French-crafted furniture, Gautier dreamt up its very first kids’ bedrooms, infused with visionary flair, 55 years ago. Since then, over five million children and teenagers have slept in a Gautier bed!

Today, Gautier offers furniture for every room in your house: living rooms, dining rooms, adults’ bedrooms, kids’ rooms, walkin closets, storage units, and much more. Gautier makes life that little bit easier by offering simple, contemporary furniture that combines warmth, harmony, pleasure and comfort! Boasting unique expertise, the Gautier brand stands out thanks to its in-house design team, who steadily craft the brand’s story day after day, through their pioneering designs and original concepts that fit right in with your living spaces. The team brings together five designers, each of whom has his or her own unique vision of the world, experience and artistic inclination. They share a single aim: to reinvent the interior design and the living spaces of both today and tomorrow, so that every day spent in your home is a moment of pure joy. Today, the Gautier network comprises over 100 stores in France and abroad. As real spaces for any advice you might need, the stores welcome you to a warm, friendly environment where designing your interior space is easy and a source of immense pleasure. Gautier creates furniture with passion and creativity, making life even more beautiful than it already is.

The 164 pages of the Gautier catalogue pay homage to French design, manufacturing and innovation. The catalogue is available in Bahrain at Phoenicia Décor. Call 17 564-444.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

airconditioningfeature

Chill Out Climate change is very much a hot topic and the island’s air conditioning (AC) sector is now subject to strict new energyefficiency rules.

Global warming is an issue that affects us all and the Kingdom certainly has some way to go in addressing the size of its carbon footprint. Statistics show that air conditioners are responsible for almost 50 per cent of the island’s electricity usage and this is one area in which the authorities are taking action. In July last year the National Committee for Standardisation and Metrology agreed to adopt a number of Gulf Technical Regulations including new rules on air conditioner labelling and energy efficiency. It’s hoped this will enable a cut in electric usage for air conditioning to 20 to 30 per cent of national consumption. The new rules have challenged AC suppliers to come up with energy-efficient units that can tackle Bahrain’s blazing summers. It’s no easy task so we’ve rounded up some of those who either already stock or are in the process of launching new energycompliant products.

AJM Kooheji One of the island’s most respected businesses, this group is a major supplier of retailers and offers a range of industry-leading brands including LG, whose Titan model promises powerful cooling solutions which can operate in temperatures up to 60 degrees. Awal Gulf Bahrain’s home-grown refrigeration and AC equipment manufacturer, Awal Gulf has factories in Sitra and Hidd with a large local workforce producing its own brand products Pearl and Aqua Chill. The company’s cooling systems are designed and built using the latest technology and meet the energyefficiency and performance requirements of the various GCC states and MENA region countries. Gajria Electronics Specialising in the leading brand Chigo, Gajria has introduced a new unit that is certified in ISO 9001 Quality Management System and ISO 14001 Environment Management System to ensure customers can beat the heat while meeting the tough new regulations. The new unit includes independent dehumidifying, sleep-mode operation, self-diagnosis and auto protection, intelligent defrosting, LED display, automatic restart, cold catalyst technology and healthy anions. Mohammed Fakhroo & Bros This company offers a range of electronics and domestic appliances and is a registered trader for Japan’s renowned Hitachi brand which, as well as employing a revolutionary nano-titanium catalyst, also produces air conditioning units which are exclusive to the Gulf regional market. Techno Blue The supplier of leading brand Samsung offers a range of products offering high-tech solutions to keep your

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 95

airconditioningfeature home or office cool backed by parent company Al Hawaj’s 60-plus years of experience in dealing with the region’s harsh climate. Yateem Air Conditioning Established in 1949, Yateem Air Conditioning is one of the island’s most prominent distributors and remains at the forefront of the industry’s technological innovations. The top notch Carrier brand is one of its premium offerings providing a range of units which not only meet the new regulations but are also highly durable and economical. Yousif Bin Yusif Fakhro A company with a reputation for brand innovation, Yusif Bin Yusif offers a whole range of home solutions from white goods to décor. It is home to big name brands which can be trusted to help you keep your cool when the mercury rises. Top Tips As well as the main dealers, you will also find a wide range of air conditioners at the island’s larger hypermarkets such as Lulu, Carrefour and Geant. If you choose to buy from a non-specialist source, here are some things to look out for: 1. Cooling capacity/size considerations. You will need to take into account not only the size of the room or space to be cooled but also the ceiling height, the amount of

96 March 2016

sunlight the room receives, the number of people who use the space and the usage of the room. If you are installing an AC unit in the kitchen, you will need to increase the cooling capacity. 2. Installation. If you’re buying a window AC, make sure you can fit it with whatever glazing is in your home. Similarly, a wall unit may require a hole to be made which will require construction work. 3. Electrical requirements. Window air conditioners are generally more powerful than regular household appliances so make sure your electricity points are suitable. 4. Energy efficiency. This is not only a matter of environmental protection but also economy. Make sure you source the most efficient unit possible to cool the space you are treating. 5. Maintenance. Like any other appliance, your air conditioner will last longer if it’s properly maintained. It needs to be cleaned at least once a year, possibly more due to dust. Check your brand’s maintenance manual to see if this will be a task that can easily be carried out by yourself or whether you will need specialist assistance.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AWAL GULF

Leading the Way If you are planning to upgrade your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooling systems, who better to rely on than one of the largest and oldest manufacturers in the Middle East? Established in 1970, Awal Gulf boasts three manufacturing facilities that make it one of the leading export-oriented air conditioning and refrigeration companies in the Middle East. Two factories are located at the Sitra industrial area and the third is in Hidd. Being at the forefront of the industry, Awal Gulf has become a primary original equipment manufacturer for a number of reputed multinational brands. Its own brands include the popular Pearl and Aqua Chill. Awal Gulf products are designed and built using the latest technology and meet the energy efficiency and performance requirements of the various GCC states and MENA region countries. Locally, in Bahrain, the company offers an extensive range of AC units, from single units of

www.bahrainthismonth.com

0.75TR up to those of 150TR. It can also provide custom-built units of more than 150TR capacity as well. Among the line-up of items are window air conditioners, mini-split units (wall, ceiling, floor-mounted, cassette and free-standing), variable multi-split units, central package units, ducted split units, chillers, double-skin airhandling units, chilled water fan coil units, heat pump chillers, dedicated fresh air units, roof tank water coolers and chest freezers.

Awal Gulf also undertakes turnkey central air conditioning contracts and has been involved in a number of prestigious projects across the Kingdom. Pearl products are available at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s showrooms at Sitra and Hoora as well as through authorised dealers spread across Bahrain. Call 17 738-332.

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airconditioningfeature

AJM KOOHEJI

Keep Your Cool This Summer Gulf summers can be difficult for everyone. Temperatures reach more than 50 degrees and households feel like a furnace in the shade, even with the fans on.

98 March 2016

People often get through the summer months by bracing themselves, sticking the thermostat on the lowest setting for the entire season and hoping it cools down soon. The LG Titan Air Conditioner will bring a fresh and cool experience to Bahraini households. On peak summer days, the majority of households in the Middle East use the air conditioner and often feel the units are not designed to withstand the humidity and blazing temperatures during the hottest months. In contrast the LG Titan Air Conditioner is designed to withstand extreme conditions, still cooling even up to 60 degrees celsius. Specially designed for the Gulf region, the tropical compressors powering the LG Titan Air Conditioner are highly effective and reliable. The compressor is the core of any air conditioner. The Super Tropical compressor enables high temperature operation so the unit can operate without failure even up to 60 degrees. This also is achieved by the special Gold Fin coating which protects the surface of the heat exchanger from unnecessary wear and

corrosion. This new feature has passed Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s air conditioner regulations and adheres to the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new energy and labelling standards. In addition, the power cooling feature allows cool airflow to all corners of the room, keeping the space chilled and comfortable regardless of outside temperatures. The Jetcool feature is supplemented by the adjustable four-way auto swing vane which allows the air conditioner to cool specific areas much faster. The LG Titan Air Conditioner specifically works well in coastal areas as well which are normally exposed to a high risk of corrosion due to the weather conditions. It has been specially treated to resist corrosion and reduce maintenance. Finally, the LG Titan Air Conditioner installation process is designed to be easy, efficient and quick with its simple packaging and support clips. The latest LG air conditioners are now available at all leading hypermarkets, power retailers and dealer stores. Call 17 404-590. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Powerful, Durable, And Refreshingly Cool

Connect with us on: lg_bahrain

LG Bahrain

airconditioningfeature YATEEM AIR CONDITIONING

Choose Wisely to Meet New Regulations We all know the cost of living is rising in Bahrain and, with higher rates on water and electricity approved by the government, it is set to increase further. At the same time, strict regulations are coming into force on energy labelling, minimum energy efficiency and performance requirements for new air conditioning equipment. According to the Electricity and Water Authority, 49.5 per cent of all electrical appliance consumption in Bahrain is through the use of air conditioners. The new regulations and energy efficiency aim to reduce this by around 30-40 per cent and more and more emphasis is being placed on efficient use of resources, including electricity. A spokesman for Yateem Air Conditioning says: “The need of the hour is energy saving, highly efficient air conditioners which meet the new regulatory requirements.” The company, along with Carrier, the world leader in air conditioning, is proud to present its new line of energy-efficient air conditioners. These are state-ofthe-art units which meet the new energy labelling and efficiency criteria. At the same time, in keeping with the traditions of Carrier, they are highly durable and economical units, providing users with complete peace of mind. The spokesman continues: “We at Yateem Air Conditioning ensure that our valued customers receive the best and most appropriate AC units for their specific needs, on time.” Call 17 253-177.

100 M arch 2016

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buffets,brunches&restaurantoffers

Spoilt For Choice Its no secret, the Kingdom loves a bottomless plate of food. This month we bring you the best buffets in Bahrain where you can feast like there’s no tomorrow – for a set price.

If there’s one situation where the paradox of choice doesn’t seem to apply much, it’s when you find yourself at a buffet. The overwhelming ‘tyranny of choices’ fades away and the multitude of options only adds to the joy of indulging in a king-sized feast. The islanders’ love for an endless variety of food has made buffets an extremely popular dining option here, which works really well for both guests and the restaurants. Modern buffets are so popular because they offer a variety of foods set at often reasonable prices, so it comes with the added ‘feel good’ factor of getting a good deal. There is no waiting to order or to be served and a lot of room for customisation. Meals can be created with more meat and less carbs, salads can be built with only desired toppings and covered by just the right dressing. More than anything else, the main attraction of a buffet is the chance to go back for seconds or even thirds. Here’s our list of some of the most delicious and deliriously large spreads, including weekend brunches. So, grab your baggiest trousers and bon appetite! Hotel Buffets The island’s armada of world-class luxury hotels presents many daily and weekend buffets that are extremely popular. The exquisite Al Areen Palace and Spa offers a royal retreat to its visitors and some of the most lavish buffets at its beautiful dining venues. Keizo, the Far

www.bahrainthismonth.com

East Asian restaurant, serves a brunch which includes Arabian, Western, Indian and Far Eastern delicacies for BD 25++ with selected in-house beverages and BD 19++ with soft beverages. Feast your senses on a sumptuous Saturday brunch featuring a delicious assortment of Italian specialties at ART Rotana’s Rosso restaurant for BD14++. Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s La Mosaique Restaurant has started an authentic French buffet, which is served every Sunday for BD12++. The restaurant has also launched an Asian buffet, which is held every March 2016 101

buffets,brunches&restaurantoffers

Monday. The hotel’s ‘Absolutely Fabulous Friday Brunch’ can be enjoyed at La Mosaique Restaurant, The Harvesters Pub, Cappuccino Café and The Patio. Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa has a revamped Friday Brunch which boasts an exhaustive variety of food and beverages with live cooking stations and entertainment by the band The Black Notes. It is priced at BD34 net. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay’s Bahrain Bay Kitchen is known for its lavish culinary offerings, including five unique food stations serving Arabic, Western, Indian, Japanese and Chinese delicacies. Its Friday brunch is priced at BD26++ without and BD34++ with selected beverages, and Saturday brunch is priced at BD18++ with soft drinks. Every Thursday it hosts Fisherman’s Night, offering a wide selection of fresh seafood picks with live cooking stations. Golden Tulip, located in the heart of Manama, features a splendid array of international dishes in its breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, served at Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant. Baharat at Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain offers a daily business lunch buffet at BD12++. Take a curry tour every Sunday with 15 different curries from 10 different countries. On Wednesdays it hosts Butcher’s Night where you can savour your choice of meat cooked to your liking with a buffet of accompaniments. ‘Claws’ the restaurant’s seafood buffet is hosted every Thursday and features succulent shellfish, freshly prepared sushi and sashimi, seafood pasta, curry and paella and much more. Both theme nights are priced at BD16++ without and BD20++ with selected beverages. Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain’s famous Thursday Night Out is an evening of absolute indulgence with unlimited exotic beverages and gourmet food cooked to perfection, as per your liking. Head to Silk’s restaurant, it also features great entertainment by a resident DJ and is priced at BD27 net per person. Head to Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa’s Lemon Tree restaurant for a pre-Easter brunch on March 25. It will be packed with family activities, a lavish buffet, treasure hunt, colourful Easter eggs and live music; it is priced at BD20++. The Domain Hotel and Spa hosts a Friday brunch which is described as ‘a grown up affair’. Priced at BD19 without and BD27 with selected drinks, it is not about face 102 March 2016

painting and balloon toys but sharing some heady drinks and savouring chef Rukmal’s gourmet delights. What adds to the experience is the live music by a talented duo and the fantastic views from the 34th floor. The Sheraton Bahrain hosts the Chocoholic Brunch at Al Safir Restaurant where you can indulge in international delicacies with special focus on chocolate creations. This family friendly brunch, priced at BD22 without and BD28 with selected beverages, features popcorn and candy-floss, art competitions, video games and more. Juffair’s The K Hotel offers a ‘Bigger Brunch’ at its newly opened Kolors restaurant. Extending all the way to the lobby, the spread boasts an exhaustive variety of starters, mains, live cooking stations and desserts. It is priced at BD16.5++ with soft drinks and for an additional BD6; you can enjoy selected beverages too. Boutique Buffets Trader Vic’s Restaurant and Lounge launches its Waikiki Hawaiian Brunch, which is a fun Hawaiian-style dining experience, served every Saturday from noon until 3.30pm. It features a range of classic dishes with an innovative twist and is priced at BD24.5++ with selected beverages and BD18.5++ with soft drinks. Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge in Adliya offers fresh and innovative preparations at its Friday and Saturday brunch buffet, which can best be enjoyed with its selection of beverages, sitting on the balmy Santorini style terrace. It is priced at BD12.5++ with soft drinks and BD17.5++ with selected beverages. Lanterns Restaurant and Lounge offers a Friday and Saturday lunch buffet from 12pm to 4pm and dinner buffet on Thursday and Friday, which is priced at BD10.5++. Savour Lantern’s signature dishes with live music by Madhu and Newab. Bushido’s Friday brunch promises a feast for both the eyes and taste buds with live cooking stations. There’s live music and children’s activities as well and it is priced at BD22.4++ without and BD29.6++ with selected beverages. Upstairs Downstairs serves a host of international delicacies with your favourite beverages at its Friday Brunch – priced at BD18++. The price may change on special events.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Abdul Jalil & Mariam

Soha, Vicky, Deema & Safiya

Porsche Design Opening An event was held to celebrate the grand opening of the Porsche Design Boutique and unveiling of the new 911 Soundbar by Porsche Design, at Al Aali Shopping Complex. Abdul Jalil Ansari, Tony Jashanmal & Shaikh Mohammed

Joelle, Ghassan, Hana & Ali

Yousif & Shaikh Salman

Abdulrahman, Jamal, Rhizlane Siabri, Leila & Tony Jashanmal

Guests at the event

MORE DETAILS:

lanternsloungebahrain lanternsbahrain At Lanterns we pride ourselves with entertaining you with a mixture of ancient to modern Indian culinary influences.

FIND THE FUN IN THE SOUND OF MUSIC FEATURING OUR

ADLIYA BRANCH “UP IN TOWN HOTSPOT” WITH ITS THREE DISTINCTIVE AREAS:

“New Live Singers Newab and Madhu” AT OUR ADLIYA BRANCH

MAHARAJA FEAST BUFFET

which has always been a hit since 1987 (endless curry cravings!) at Budaiya-Adliya-Riffa

17246777

ADLIYA 17250999 www.bahrainthismonth.com

77366333

RIFFA 77366600

17666517

JUFFAIR 17224417

TRUCK BAR

GARDEN LOUNGE

DINING ROOM

THE NEVER ENDING HAPPY HOUR “ALL DAY EVERY DAY” IN THE TRUCK LOUNGE AT ADLIYA BUDAIYA 17590591

77770004

DURRAT AL BAHRAIN 77771 1 1 4

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buffets,brunches&restaurantoffers NICOLE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

A Great Escape Take a trip along the Mediterranean coastline at this vibrant spot while savouring some of the most exceptional food on the island. Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge – in Adliya’s Block 338 – is a versatile venue that allows you to dine in any of its three distinct sections. Inspired by the Italian coast, the French Riviera and the Lebanese mountainside, the dining room at Nicole’s is romantically eclectic. Whether relaxing at the bar, or enjoying the award winning al fresco dining on the Santorini-style rooftop terrace, surrounded by the fresh herbs for use in the kitchen, Nicole’s is sure to make you feel at home. The core philosophy of the restaurant is to push the boundaries of innovation and to share that authentic creativity with its guests. Executive chef Christopher Kfoury, who formalised his passion for cooking at Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, has succeeded in delivering one of the most

SKAL Dinner

unique dining experiences on the island. “He has been at the helm for just over four months now and has already passed on his drive to innovate to our sous chefs and all the amazing hands in the kitchen as well, who work hard everyday to make each dish shine,” says Maxwell Rediker, marketing and sales manager, Nicole’s. This spirit is reflected in the restaurant’s brunch, hosted on Fridays and Saturdays. “It is a wonderful opportunity for the kitchen staff to transform traditional Mediterranean flavours into truly special dishes,” Maxwell adds. Along with contemporary cuisine, you can savour some time-honoured classics such as brioche French toast and eggs benedict as well as Nicole’s in-house smoked bacon. “Our cuisine exemplifies our mission to discover new ways to excite the palate without ever having to compromise on quality or creativity,” says Chef Christopher. “This holds true throughout the entire menu and into our guests’ dining experience.”

The restaurant considers three fundamentals as its key values – family, friends, and food. “We strive to make each guest’s dining experience unique yet comfortable, so that every person that walks through our doors feels like a part of the Nicole’s family,” Chef Christopher says. Call 17 280-700.

Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, Acting CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority was the guest speaker at the latest SKAL Bahrain dinner.

Charbel & Ron

Shaikh Khalid Bin Humood Al Khalifa, centre, with SKAL board members

Sawsan & Rahim Khalil, Ebrahim & Khamis

Stephen, Abdulla & Mohammed

104 March 2016

Mohamed, Fuad, Jassim & Hisham

Mirza & Salman

Amina & Charbel

Jano & Garfield

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Wanna Do Brunch? 12.5BD++ Unlimited Food, Juices, & Soft Drinks 17.5BD++ Unlimited Food & Selected Alcoholic Beverages Every Friday and Saturday from 12:30pm to 4pm

facebook.com/nicolesbh |

nicolesbahrain

buffets,brunches&restaurantoffers TRADER VIC’S

Polynesian Pleasures One of the most popular restaurants on the island has a number of surprises in store this month; promising to make your trip to this exotic haven even more fun. Trader Vic’s restaurant and lounge has launched its Waikiki Hawaiian Brunch. This fun Hawaiian-style dining experience will be served every Saturday from noon until 3.30pm and features a range of classic dishes with an innovative twist. The Waikiki menu consists of all homemade recipes that will be dished out from a number of buffet stations. The chefs’ made-to-order creations include Loco Moco, succulent Ahi Poké and the freshest island greens. Finish your meal with a delicious island-influenced dessert, like the Bahia Crumble or Hot Mai Tai Pudding. The brunch is priced at BD24.5++ with selected beverages and BD18.5++ with soft drinks. In addition to the brunch, the venue will also introduce terrace entertainment at the outdoor restaurant, Tahiti, and a special Tahitian menu, from March 22 to 25. The menu includes exotic delicacies such as Eia Ota lime-marinated tuna and salmon tartar, sea scallops in yellow curry and Vic’s Good Tahitian Salad. This tantalising fare is also available on the Polynesian a- la-carte dinner menu. Following the popular demand from previous dance performances, the restaurant has invited fire performances to dazzle evening diners.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Vic’s Good Tahitian Salad

Making prior reservation is highly recommended. Other special events to look forward to are Salsa Nights, which will be held on March 16 and April 30. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Mai Tai Lounge offers a ‘Quick Snack in Paradise’ promotion starting from 2pm. Every Monday, take advantage of Tiki Time and avail a 30 per cent discount on selected beverages. On Wahine Tuesdays, ladies enjoy free drinks and a complementary selection of Trader Vic’s tid-bits. Call 17 580-000.

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buffets,brunches&restaurantoffers GOLDEN TULIP

The New Old Friend One of the oldest and most loved hotels in Bahrain undertook a major refurbishment project and now greets its loyal guests with a fresh new look. Opened in January 2006, Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel is today a well known brand owing to its consistent quality of product and services. The five-star property is nestled in the heart of the bustling commercial and business district of Manama; and is only eight kilometres from Bahrain International Airport and walking distance from Bab Al Bahrain. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a variety of dining options to suit all tastes at the Golden Tulip Bahrain, from authentic Japanese to international buffets. Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant features a splendid array of international dishes, which can be sampled a la carte or at its breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets. The popular Kei Japanese Restaurant, serves authentic cuisine delicately prepared by its experienced chef. The newly-opened

Mawal Lebanese Restaurant offers a variety of authentic regional cuisine accompanied by live entertainment. You can spend a pleasant evening catching up with your favourite game or taking in live

music at the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s informal C Club Sports Bar. For after-hours action, head to Platinum Night Club that offers a fantastic party atmosphere with live entertainment. Call 17 535-000.

FRIDAY BRUNCH Every Friday 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm BD 19.900++ per person food and selected alcoholic beverages BD 15.000++ per person food and non-alcoholic beverages BD 7.500++ per person 6-12 years Come join us for a relaxed and enjoyable Friday with a sumptuous Buffet, Live Entertainment and special activities for kids. For reservations, call

+973 17 535 000 or 39995182/5166

BAHRAIN - HOTEL

@goldentulipbahrainhotel

108 March 2016

Golden Tulip Bahrain

@GTBahrainHotel

GOLDENTULIPBAHRAIN.COM

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

GARDEN OF FIVE SENSES ANKITA MAMGAIN

ALSO THIS MONTH: 110 DELICIOUSLY HEALTHY 119 A CUT ABOVE

A blend of 21st Century avant-garde and ancient Japanese mysticism, this restaurant offers a lot more than just fine dining.

henever we get a visit from a friend or family member, our tour of the island usually entails the Grand Mosque, the National Museum, the Tree Of Life, and, of course, the Souq. And for that special dining out experience, when we really want to impress our guest, show off the most hip, glamorous and enchanting of restaurants the Kingdom has to offer, we take them to Bushido. Well, my sister is visiting me, and after a long day at the mall, we too found ourselves at the restaurant one evening. Located, in the heart of Seef, it cuts you off from the surrounding skysoaring urban jungle as soon as you pull into the complex. The first impression is usually a big ‘wow’, as you notice the stunning gardens and a moat surrounding this enormous pagoda. With small water fountains and impeccable landscaping, the outdoor area is very calm and Zen. As you move indoors, the vibe changes completely. Dominated by a fiery colour scheme of red, black and gold, Bushido’s interior invokes passion. The dimly-lit space is a unique melange of Samurai chivalry, Buddhist tranquillity and contemporary panache. This comprises an www.bahrainthismonth.com

imposing exhibit of Samurai coats of armour suspended in glass, which stretches all the way up to the wooden ceiling. Oversized chandeliers filling the room with crimson light, rich mahogany furniture, vintage Japanese artefacts, luxurious upholstery and a majestic stairway taking you to the mezzanine bar, are all elements that come together to create an ambience that is opulent, strong, seductive and very intriguing. We settled at the teppanyaki area, which consists of two bars that can seat up to 24 guests at a time. Our captain Jayvee welcomed us with hot towels and presented the menus. There’s an option of a set menu, which includes two starters, a soup, main course served with rice of your choice and a dessert. The price varies according to your choice of main course, or you can choose a la carte. Part of the Buddha Bar franchise, Bushido plays an eclectic mix of contemporary world music. While we were busy ‘Shazamming’ what we heard, some edamame and our drinks arrived – refreshing Ginger Fizz and a glass of house grape. The starters – mixed tempura, crunchy rolls and chicken gyoza – were exquisite and delightfully light. Jayvee suggested that we

also try one of Bushido’s hottest selling dishes, the avocado and strawberry maki, which packed a fruity punch. As we moved on to miso soup, chef Rain stepped behind the grill and got us all excited for the big show. Sharp knives and eggs were constantly airborne and intense fire blazed as we watched absolutely enthralled. Somehow, my sister and I also ended up going behind the counter, which left the place covered in broken egg shells. Beyond the theatrics, the food was the true star of the evening. The aromatic fried rice, beautifully seared tenderloin and juicy assorted mushrooms in a rich butter garlic sauce, were absolutely outstanding. This was a complete indulgence for all the senses – before you can touch and taste, you watch, smell and hear as you wait in eager anticipation; making this experience entertaining and deliciously rewarding. I would strongly recommend trying mochi, an authentic Japanese dessert comprising of a scoop of ice cream enveloped in a delicate rice cake. Meeting all senses head-on, Bushido offers a rare indulgence that ranks top in class and sophistication. March 2016 109

dining AL ABRAAJ RESTAURANTS

Deliciously Healthy

Watching your weight can be a real challenge. Fortunately, eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to give up flavourful food.

110 March 2016

Established in 1987, Al Abraaj is one of Bahrain’s most loved casual dining restaurant chains. What started as a simple ‘family’ restaurant serving popular Middle Eastern food has evolved into a brand that is now synonymous with quality cuisine and great value. In a bid to help customers lead healthier lifestyles, the chain now offers a new Lighter Menu. The nutritional value of each of the new offerings is provided to let customers know exactly how many calories are in each dish. The new section includes a wide range of tasty choices, lightly seasoned with Al Abraaj’s signature flavours. This includes tasty quinoa salad, grilled

salmon fillet, light mixed-grills with low-fat lamb kebab paired with chopped vegetables and roasted sweet potato wedges. “It’s a pleasure to have added the new Light Menu in response to our customers’ valuable feedback and overall high demand for flavourful but low-calorie dishes,” says Hamad Rashed, director, Al Abraaj Restaurants Group. “We hope to continue supporting our customers and helping them lead a healthier life. We’re delighted to have taken our menu another step forward in a healthier direction.” The Light Menu is also available for delivery at Al Abraaj Restaurants in Sehla, Adliya, Riffa, Busaiteen, Hamala, Hoora, Al A’ali Complex, Juffair and Budaiya. Al Abraaj’s menu has continuously evolved over its 28 years of business to include new categories and cuisines that appeal to the local palate. The restaurant offers a menu as varied as its clientele, featuring Arabic, Indian, Chinese and European dishes, making it an ideal location to enjoy a special celebration or your weekly supper. Choose from a wide array of hot and cold mezze, soups, salads and delectable charcoal grills, kebabs, steaming-hot sizzlers, mouth-watering curries, rice dishes and fresh bread. Open from noon until midnight, the restaurant offers dine-in, take away and delivery options. Al Abraaj restaurant now has 14 outlets, which span from large restaurants to casual dining eateries and food courts. The Al Abraaj restaurant group’s portfolio includes some of the most-visited restaurants in Bahrain such as Lumee Street Café, Al Bindaira Café and NuAsia. The group launched a points-based rewards programme called Ahlan Rewards that allows you to earn points while you eat at any of its restaurants, which can be redeemed for special rate discount offers and more. Call 17 434-343 or visit www.al-abraaj.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ahmed Sharif, Mohammed & Ali

Social Evening

Fans had a fun-filled evening at Vapiano with artist and comedian Ahmed Sharif. Rajni, Jalil Jawad, Jano, Ahmed Sharif, Akhila & Reena

Kathy, April & Miriam

Gideon & Rajni

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Yusra & Mohammed

Lovell & Daphne

Hazel, Marinel & Michelle

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dining AL BINDAIRA CAFÉ

Everyone’s Invited

This popular café has rolled out a sensational selection of new choices on its menu, offering one of the best casual dining experiences on the island. Wrapped around a warm, traditional Arabic theme, Al Bindaira Café has a well-deserved reputation for quality among foodies in the Kingdom. Whether you’re rushing out of the office to unwind with friends or are looking to spend quality time with family over dinner, the café is an ideal choice. From small bites to hearty meals, the menu includes classic hot and cold Middle Eastern

mezze, soups, charcoal grills, as well as regional and international dishes with an extensive variety of hot beverages and juices. Already packed with everything you might expect from an authentic Arabic café, the menu now includes new seafood grills and slow-cooked main course dishes. Steaming hot king prawns, sea bream fillets, Arabic veal tajine, spinach and chicken casserole, beef lasagna and more items are now available for you to enjoy. Present in four locations; Adliya, Riffa, City Centre Bahrain and Al A’ali Shopping Complex, this much-loved eatery boasts a welcoming ambience and comfortable surroundings. All branches of the café boast a mixture of sofa sets, wooden benches and dining tables to create an organic layout, scattered between baroque stone arches, split-levels and private rooms. With both indoor and outdoor tables, the café manages to create both a family-friendly ambience and a youthful vibe at the same time. The cafés are renowned for a wide selection of sheesha, but, if the smoke bothers you, there are designated non-smoking sections. Call 17 744-066 (Adliya), 17 622-355 (Riffa), 17 178-090 (City Centre Bahrain) and 17 587-587 (Al A’ali Shopping Complex).

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dining MAKI

Pushing New Boundaries With its reputation firmly established in the Kingdom, this popular Japanese dining concept is travelling from Bahrain to London. International restaurant group, Oliver Maki, has taken its unique brand of contemporary Japanese food to the UK, launching its first restaurant outside of the Middle East. The new eatery adds to the company’s portfolio of five established, award-winning venues offering innovative Japanese cuisine in an urban and upscale environment. Centrally located in London’s Soho, the 55-cover restaurant introduces Londoners to the brand’s award-winning creativity; combining Japanese tradition with global flavours and exciting textures. The kitchen team is led by executive head chef Louis Kenji Huang – formerly the head sushi chef at Nobu – who endeavours to continually evolve the menu with new ingredients and techniques: pushing the boundaries with dishes that surprise and delight. The restaurant’s design incorporates raw, natural materials and muted tones of grey, for a sleek effect that provides no distraction from the main act – the food. Each dish at Oliver Maki is a carefully constructed work of art, as beautiful as it is delicious. “You will be able to enjoy many of the same dishes that we serve at Maki Bahrain, but you are in for a few pleasant surprises as well”, says Amer Zeitoun, co-founder and managing partner. His niece, Yara, will be directing operations at the London outlet.

BBMA Gathering

John

Oliver Maki

Launched in 2004, Oliver Maki is an award-winning concept in the Middle-East, with four critically acclaimed restaurants in Kuwait and one in Bahrain. Visit www.olivermaki.com.

Konstantinos

Maryam & Nadia

Neam & Ghalib

The Bahrain Businessmen’s Association held an introductory event and dinner gathering at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa. Nabil Ajoor & Ahmed Bin Hindi

Abdul Sattar, Abdul Hamid Hatem, Nabil Ajoor & Yousi Lori Khulood

Adam

Khalid Bin Hindi

Momen

Shah

Basil

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Ahmed & Manal

Sebastian

Mike

Ahmed & Federico

Dr Amy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Game On! Catch the next nail-biting match with your mates at this friendly neighbourhood joint that promises lip-smacking delights and great hospitality. Whether it’s the Champions League, Rugby World Cup or the latest GCC rival competition, some sporting events are meant to be experienced on a grander scale than in your living room. So, put on your favourite team’s jersey and get ready to chow down on some amazing grub while you keep a close eye on the game. Wembley Restaurant – on the fourth floor of Atiram Premier Hotel in Juffair – offers a contemporarily designed space that is comfortable and filled with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment. The spacious outdoor terrace is also fitted with a projector and TV screens. With a world-class chef in the kitchen, you can enjoy an exciting and diverse menu ranging from lip-smacking pub bites and burgers, to a prime Ad - F.pdf 1 2/24/16 cut of meatBTM cooked to your liking. The well-4:38 PM

trained staff is attentive and swift with service. “We strive to give you a fantastic atmosphere and hope to keep you entertained, be it through showing the latest sporting events or by playing popular music from across the years,” says Naveen Narayanan, general manager of Atiram Premier Hotel. “In addition to this, there are a number of monthly events and weekly

specials that make Wembley an ideal venue to celebrate birthdays or to host bachelor or bachelorette parties.” The restaurant opens from 12pm to 2am and offers special discounts on food and beverages from midday to 8pm. Call 33 640-009.

CMY

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Seef Mall Illusion Opening Seef Mall and OSN launched the ‘Entertain Your Brain’ Optical Illusion Gallery in collaboration with the National Geographic Channel HD. Visitors were given a teaser of National Geographic Channel’s popular series Brain Games. Ahmed & Robert

Media Preview

Seef Mall and OSN teams representatives

The Meat Company held an exclusive media preview event to showcase its recently renovated rooftop and new dishes.

Danielle, Arjuna & Ramah

George & Hussain

Keith, Neil, Kristianna, Jessica & Wees

Mariam & Annie

‫ﻗﺮﻳﺒﺎ ﻓﻲ اﻟﺒﺤﺮﻳﻦ‬

COMING SOON! @Monkeycookiesbah www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cake Boutique Seef corner March 2016 117

dining CRUST & CREMA

The Perfect Cup There’s much more to coffee than a great start to the morning or an escape from the afternoon slump. This café shows you how to savour the beverage in its true form. In keeping with the Third Wave movement, Crust & Crema – located opposite Saar Cinema – pays the bean its due respect with regard to all the processes involved in serving customers a perfect cup of coffee; from the origin of the harvested bean, to the roasting and brewing. Coffee aficionados need look no further than this rustic café for a hearty cup of coffee that is sourced responsibly, concocted with utmost care and served with delight. The café uses high-quality coffee beans, which are 100-per-cent Arabica grown in ideal climates around the world to give the coffee its unique, full taste. Crust & Crema’s true pride and joy is its selection of world coffees, made with fresh and premium quality beans sourced from around the globe. What really draws customers to Crust & Crema is its brew bar, where coffees are brewed using various methods, using decanters and beakers. Coffee brewed in these methods is to be enjoyed in its true form, without the use of any additives. This ensures that the flavour of the coffee; floral, citrus, or dark chocolate – is not overshadowed. The café highly recommends trying the brew bar for an enlightening experience. Crust & Crema offers a wide selection of artisan breads, fresh baked goodies and scrumptious desserts to complement a great cup of coffee. A menu offering savoury sandwiches, soups and salads is in the pipeline as well. Call 17 214-155.

• • • •

specialty coffees single origin beans locally roasted gourmet bakery

a true coffee experience

SAAR AVENUE OPP. SAAR CINEMA 118 March 2016

17214155 www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE DOMAIN HOTEL AND SPA

A Cut Above Passion, persistence and an indomitable zeal to grow and succeed are just some of the qualities that led this reckless Sri Lankan youth to become a true culinary maverick.

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The Domain Hotel and Spa has always tried to deliver to its guests something truly spectacular, be it stateof-the-art facilities or the finest culinary offerings at its restaurants. In a bid to do just that, senior chef de cuisine, Rukmal Samarasekera has started the process of aging fine cuts of meat, in-house, to achieve a taste and texture that’s truly unique. “I learnt this process when I was in Ireland and visited one of the main meat farms,” he says. “The main butchers over there taught me how to age meat, so when I returned to my kitchen in Jumeirah, Dubai, I started aging the meats for the restaurants, which became immensely popular. I have now started the process here in Bahrain.” Dry-aging meat is a process that entails allowing it to rest in very carefully controlled conditions (cool temperatures, with relatively high humidity) for a period of time, often lasting up to several weeks and sometimes even a couple of months. For those who like their steaks really rare, chef Rukmal says that although they won’t see any pink juices on their plate, each bite will be full of absolutely delicious, melt-in-your-mouth flavour. At the moment, chef Rukmal is in the process of preparing Beef Prosciutto, which has a special pepper, herb and mustard rub, and will be aged for three to four months. These delicious air-dried cuts of premium quality Angus beef will be a regular feature at the hotel’s stylish steakhouse, Le Sauvage on the 34th floor.

In addition to the meat, chef Rukmal is also making a variety of salts, which will be presented at the table to be tried with steak. Chef Rukmal shows a restless and relentless streak that has guided his career thus far. He dropped out of high school at the age of 16 but his passion for food, keen observation and hunger to create, led him to achieve many milestones. His professional career, spanning almost 17 years, has seen him work with some of the most prestigious hotels, restaurants and chefs around Asia, the Middle East and Europe including Michelin-star chefs Gordon Ramsey, Dedier Curlou, Melker Andersson and Kollin Kjell. “To be a good chef, passion to the extent of madness is required; willingness to keep learning and, in the end, one must have a good heart, that is eager to create new and ultimately please the guests,” he says. Call 16 000-000. March 2016 119

dininghappenings

ON THE MENU From new chefs and restaurants to food promotions, there’s much to look forward to this month in the culinary district.

YES CHEF!

After only a couple of months in the Kingdom, Stephen McGowen is well settled into his new role as the executive chef at the Capital Club. He has worked with top chefs across the UK and as the head chef at ‘The Bird in Hand’, one of London’s finest restaurants. He has also worked at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Restaurant in London as a sous chef. Within the first few weeks of his new role he introduced a range of new dishes to the menu and a fresh approach in kitchen operations. He subscribes to the philosophy of respecting the ingredient and using it to its full potential, something that’s reflected wonderfully in beetroot ravioli, a delicious starter that even uses beetroot leaves. Another new dish on the menu is the spiced hammour. Chef Stephen intends to keep introducing new dishes so that diners have something new to look forward to on each visit. He also conducts monthly cooking classes; the last one was dedicated to Italian cuisine. Call 17 100-100.

A DELICIOUS START

TIME FOR ALL Juffair’s Ramee Rose Hotel adds another feather to its cap with an interesting new dining out venue. Time Café has been designed to cater to a wide range of customers, the sports enthusiast, business traveller, local nightlife crowd as well as families. Expect a number of flat screen televisions along with an exclusive ‘VIP Player’s Lounge’ with a private screening area and personalised service and a number of favourites prepared by the restaurant’s culinary team. Call 17 616-167.

One of Bahrain’s hottest cafés has a delicious new surprise in store. FAUCHON Paris – in Moda Mall – now offers an elaborate set breakfast that’ll make you want to ditch your diet for good. This chic café offers beautiful looking viennoiseries, fresh macroons, dainty cup cakes and a host of other goodies. The elaborate ‘FAUCHON breakfast’ includes two eggs, smoked salmon, a selection of breads, fruits, assorted cheese, a range of preserves and a beverage. The ‘Parisian breakfast’ offers a mix of mini viennoiseries, madeleines and traditional homemade bread. The Parisian eatery also features Arabic breakfast, which consists of fattè eggplant, foul, labneh, grilled halloumi, cheese rolls, spinach fatayers, falafel and much more. In addition to this, you can choose individual dishes such as eggs Benedict, shakshouka and croque monsieure as well. If you’re in a hurry, pick one of the brightly coloured tiger croissants available in chocolate, raspberry and pistachio flavours. Call 17 583-555. 120 March 2016

When? March 14 Event? Charity promotion Venue? Casa Mexicana Enjoy a set menu with a welcome drink for BD15 and donate three meals to Feed the Need initiative. E Call 17 715-521. When? March 19 Event? Earth Hour Venue? Ruka, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Observe the Earth Hour with some healthy delicacies for BD15. E Call 17 111-999. When? March 25 Event? Easter Brunch Venue? Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Season Hotel Bahrain Bay Savour traditional family Easter favourites for BD26++ without and BD35++ with selected beverages. E Call 17 115-000. When? March 27 Event? Easter Lunch Venue? Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Take part in traditional egg hunt and relish a large spread of classic dishes. E Call 17 460-017. When? March 31 Event? Throwback Holi Party Venue? Rasoi, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Come down for a vibrant theme night with a set menu, live entertainment, and colourful ambiance. Dress code is white. E Call 17 111-999. When? Throughout March Event? New theme night Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Discover the best of South East Asian specialties with a lavish buffet every Monday for BD12++. E Call 17 531-122. When? Throughout March Event? Seafood promotion Venue? Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Savour the day’s fresh catch and prepared in authentic Chinese style. E Call 17 533-533. When? Throughout March Event? Fondue promotion Venue? Silk’s, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Enjoy a warm Swiss gourmet feast with either cheese or ‘Bourguignon’ Fondue for BD15++. E Call 17 460-017. When? Throughout March Event? Fiesta Mexicana Venue? Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Season Hotel Bahrain Bay An authentic Mexican feast with live Latino music every Monday. E Call 17 115-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE SPICE ROUTE One of Kingdom’s most popular Indian restaurant, Spices, at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain, launches a new ‘Thali’ promotion for lunch and dinner. Discover the flavours of traditional Indian specialities and indulge in a brand new experience of authentic food being offered in this delicious feast. Available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus, it is priced from BD6 to BD9. Call 17 531-122.

THE PERFECT SLICE

SOME BUNNY SPECIAL

Indulge in a host of Easter favourites such as roast lamb, scotch eggs, hot cross buns and a special festive dessert selection at the Sparkling Brunch at Baharat, Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain on March 25. There will be a dedicated kids’ corner with egg painting, and an Easter egg hunt! Priced at BD18 with soft drinks and BD26 with selected beverages, it will include live music from the Colombian Fire Soul Duo. Any booking for 10 people and above will receive 20 per cent discount. Call 17 171-144.

WOK OF ART!

Zpizza, the artisan-inspired pizza chain has appealed to a wide range of customers, from traditional pizza lovers to health-conscious consumers since 1986. It is ready to make a debut in Bahrain at Sultan Mall in Zayed Town. Ideal for families who want convenient, tasty and nutritious choices, Zpizza will offer signature artisan brick oven-baked pizzas made with premium ingredients, including fresh produce, part skim mozzarella, certified organic tomato sauce and non-GMO flour. Other items on the menu will include salads, pastas, sandwiches, wings and ‘Take N Bake’ pizzas. Visit www.zpizza.com.

Soie Chinese Restaurant at The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel hosts a seasonal seafood promotion this month. On offer are specialities such as wok-fried king fish fillet in the Manchurian style, pan-fried local prawns, Szechwan spicy minced hammour and sweet and sour crispy squid with mushroom and celery. Make reservations in advance and enjoy the day’s fresh catch presented in authentic Chinese style. Call 17 533-533. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Motors celebrated the first anniversary of the JLR Anniversary Euro Jaguar Land Rover Experience Centre Bahrain. Karim Jawad & Mohammed

Marley Tribute

Marise, Nawaf Al Zayani, Charlie & Hanane Laidouni

Seven Leisure Group hosted the ‘71’ – Bob Marley’s Anniversary Tribute show with The Legend Reggae Roots, at Coral Bay. The Legend Reggae Roots entertained the audience

Louise, Will & Lesley

Stephanie, Kenn, Tina & Marko

Germaine, Angel, Jun & Princess

Lina, Eleni, Kowsar, Kate & Katie

122 March 2016

Ali & Abod

Julie & Charlie

Winston & Jessica

Nicola & Noril

Catheline, Tammy & Candice

Alta, Thomas, Omar & Agnes

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Discover New Designs The Hublot 2016 collections will take your breath away with four new models. The MP-05 LaFerrari Sapphire has a case carved out of sapphire showing off the beauty of the record-breaking movement, which can be admired from all angles. Two new limited series, Big Bang 41 MM Broderie Sugar Skull and Big Bang 41 MM Broderie showcase the art of fusion with a feminine touch incorporating Saint Gallen embroidery on organza silk. The Big Bang Unico Retrograde Chronograph also presents two limited editions celebrating UEFA EURO 2016 and the UEFA Champions League, as the official watches for the prestigious competitions. Hublot expands the Classic Fusion line further with a modern, stylish look, with the racing grey. Less harsh than black, more timeless than blue, this neutral and universal grey reinforces the model's versatile elegance. Available at Bahrain Jewellery Centre outlets.

The Key to Her Heart Pierre Cardin Jewellery’s Pont des Arts Collection features delicate hearts with a curvy, asymmetrical profile that emphasises the softer side of women. This is highlighted with a swirl of zirconia that conjures the joyous, carefree aspect of love. As an innovative finishing touch, a smaller paved zirconia heart sparkles inside each piece, or in the case of the bracelet, dangles beside the bigger heart on the chain. Available at all A La Mode outlets.

An Electric Aroma Bath & Body Works’ most daring fragrance, Dark Kiss Eau de Parfum, is a unique exotic blend of blackberry, plum and smoky dark vanilla. Dazzle through the day or night with this exciting scent that adds an extra touch of elegance and sophistication with just a few sprays. Available at Bath & Body Works in Seef Mall, City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall Muharraq.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Get Active The activewear outfit isn’t limited to fitness clubs anymore. Celio’s new collection takes inspiration from the gym and presents athleisure apparel that reflects a return to minimalist dressing, with colour shades of matte black, white ecru and multiple greys. Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain. March 2016 123

marketplace

C HOTEL

Set Sail to the C APPLE SHARMA The first floating five-star property on the island has captured the curiosity of many. BTM reviews this unique hotel to see all it has to offer. Boating is one of the island’s favourite leisure activities, whisking you away from the stress of a busy week and making your weekends something to look forward to. Pushing the boat out further, imagine what it would be like to live on one with all the luxuries of a five-star hotel. You don’t have to go far to realise this vision, as the uber-chic C Hotel, part of the Hotel de Charme chain, is right here at your doorstep. Built on a yacht, this is more than just a charming hotel and every sea-lover’s dream come true. Nestled right on the water at Coral Bay, C Hotel is the epitome of luxury – it’s like being on a fancy yacht on holiday, but without actually having to travel the miles. So, when I was asked to review this hotel, I was only too eager to experience it, in all its glory. From the moment you step onto the short ramp that leads you into the hotel, you are surrounded by a wave of blue. It comes as no surprise that the theme is nautical, but it’s the little quirks like the toy sailors in the reception windows and the maritime paintings, that make you feel right at sea. Mounting the stairs to the 124 March 2016

upper deck, the theme continues with suite names such as Captain’s Quarter. At the end of a small corridor was my suite – Admiralty. As soon as I opened the door, I was pleasantly greeted with a fairly large sized room, with wall-to-wall plush nautical-themed carpet. What I wasn’t ready for was the breath-taking view. The moment I opened the curtains, daylight came flooding in, with the expanse of the open sea in front, the marina on the left and the beach and pool on the right. This ‘room with a view’ brought a totally new meaning to the concept. The bathroom was pure delight, with a massive Jacuzzi and a built-in shower, heated toilet seat and various other high-tech features. The suite came with a full king-size bed with plush pillows and a thick, cosy duvet to snuggle into on one of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept in. There was also a small private bar; HD TV; safe; complimentary tea/coffee and free Wi-Fi. The room opened onto a large balcony overlooking the sea, with a stunning view of the city skyline – a perfect place to relax in the evening and watch the sunset. The extensive room service menu has a good choice of starters and small bites as well as main courses and desserts, but a must-try is the hotel’s Italian restaurant La Taverna Sul Mare. A rustic country-style eatery, the restaurant is decked out in chequered table cloths and comfortable seating, serving authentic Italian

food that not only tantalises your taste buds but is also deliciously fresh. My favourites were the Insalata Alla Akram, the wood-oven pizza, mango panna cotta (chef’s special) and the decadent tiramisu. To top it off, breakfast was served in the room with my pre-picked choice of items and delivered dot on time. I truly had a thoroughly enjoyable, albeit a short stay. I would recommend C Hotel as a perfect staycation option on the island. Try it for yourself – it just might float your boat! Call 17 312-700 or 39 777-701 for reservations and more information. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ASIA JEWELLERS

Conquer the Skies “We are thrilled to be partnering with best-in-class manufacturer, Piper Aircraft Inc on our first-ever pilot watch,” says Elie Bernheim, CEO of RAYMOND WEIL. “Raymond Weil was not only a visionary and daring entrepreneur but also a passionate pilot and the proud owner of a Piper plane. The freelancer Piper is a fitting homage to my grandfather and the invaluable heritage he left us. I am sure he would be immensely proud of this new introduction.” Throughout his life, Raymond Weil demonstrated a visionary’s thinking, an independence of spirit and an admirable determination. An enthusiastic pilot, he was particularly fond of mountain flights, especially around the Matterhorn, which he admired and explored with his Piper plane during his travels in Switzerland. As a nod to the man’s dear passions, the advertising campaign unveiling the freelancer Piper watch features the Swiss Alps and displays a RAYMOND WEIL-branded Piper plane. Join the discussion on social media networks using #RWPiperAircraft. RAYMOND WEIL timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers. Call 17 535-344 or visit www.asiajewellers.com.

This renowned Swiss watchmaker introduces the latest first-of-its-kind timepiece that will have you soaring high with confidence and style.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In tribute to its founder’s deep passion for flight, RAYMOND WEIL is proud to partner with legendary aviation manufacturer Piper Aircraft Inc to present its first-ever pilot watch: the freelancer Piper. Made of titanium and stainless steel, this 45mm freelancer features a mechanical self-winding chronograph movement with date and GMT functions, making it easy to read for all experienced pilots. The shiny blue minute and hour hands resemble the aircraft’s rotor blades while the GMT hand, with its red pointer, references a compass. The small seconds sub-dial at nine o’clock is inspired by the attitude indicator and the openwork black leather strap completes the aviator look of the timepiece. With its tachometric bezel, 100-metre water resistance and 46-hour power reserve, flying enthusiasts can set off to conquer the skies and discover new horizons above the clouds. Each freelancer Piper watch will be offered in a special box, which will include a model of a RAYMOND WEILbranded Piper aircraft. March 2016 125

bystander

Gastronomic Delight chef Shigeki & chef Karim

On the occasion of Buddha Bar’s 20th anniversary, Bushido Restaurant and Lounge organised an exclusive gastronomic tasting by Buddha Bar Japanese executive chef Shigeki Limura, for members of the press. Budi, Nadia & Daniel

chef Limura prepares a dish

Muskaan’s Birthday

Apple, Marise & Nadia

Family & friends

Muskaan Sadiq Ansari celebrated her birthday with close family and friends at Kosebasi restaurant, Seef Mall. Muskaan, Sadiq, Shynaz & Zahid

Muskaan, Fazila & Sehar

Kasif, Farouk, Sadiq & Fayaz

K P, Muskaan, Zahid & May

pre-tasting of the Chinese New Year menu was organised at the Four Tasting Session ASeasons Hotel Bahrain Bay’s re/Asian cuisine by Wolfgang Puck. Veronika, Brian, Mohammed Barakat, Rumena, David & Amira

126 March 2016

Ankita, Behnaz, Veronika & Amira

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

1s MEGAMART

The Name of Renown As one of the Kingdom’s leading retailers, this company’s name has become synonymous with a high standard of quality and service.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Since first opening it doors in Bahrain in 1994, MegaMart, which is part of an international group that operates in 25 countries, has seen rapid expansion throughout the Kingdom. Shoppers are offered a wide range of international foods, fresh produce, bakery products and lots more all under one roof, making shopping for groceries and household provisions a breeze for busy individuals. As MegaMart is one of the biggest importers from Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa, customers can expect to find products from a number of countries at extremely competitive prices. Another feather in the company’s cap is its partnership with Tesco, one of the UK’s biggest retailers. MegaMart is the only retailer in the Kingdom selling more than 2,500 premium-quality Tesco products, thereby bringing the best of British food to consumers in Bahrain. For the health conscious foodie, the store has a prepacked salad counter with 40 varieties of fresh items to choose from. Customers will also find an impressive range of fruit and vegetables, cheese, fresh fish, poultry and meat. MegaMart goes the extra mile to make your life easier with a selection of pre-marinated meats ready to be picked up from the shelves. The fully equipped in-house bakery has always been a hit with customers for all kinds of fresh-baked breads, cakes, pastries and snacks. For fans of Indian street food, the bakery now offers a wide range of Indian chaats and snacks to go.

In a first for supermarkets in Bahrain, customers at MegaMart’s Juffair and Segaya outlets can make their own fresh nut butters. Those bitten by the health food bug can take their pick from peanut and almond butters, to rich hazelnut chocolate butter. The proactive management at MegaMart is not one to rest on its laurels. A new outlet is set to open at Amwaj Islands, with a modern European-style layout and atmosphere, making it MegaMart’s 11th outlet in Bahrain. The friendly sales staff and managers are happy to assist shoppers to find products or even order them if something is not available in store. With regular discounts, promotions and deals on products, MegaMart is the place for the best value on your purchase. Call 17 826-884 or Segaya 17 003-061.

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marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

The Luxury of Pure Emotion Roseto

The fascinating creations of this jewellery brand have been a huge success for many years, carving a name for their breath-taking designs. Palmiero Jewellery Design, a brand renowned for top quality and creativity, was formed in 1979, bearing the name of its founder Carlo Palmiero. Carlo grew up in Valenza, a small town in the northern part of Italy, famous for its goldsmith tradition. Influenced by this art, he went to the artisanal laboratories and worked together with the greatest experts in the field. By bucking the trend and modifying the standards of classical jewellery, Carlo moved the attention from the centre to the whole object. Nowadays, he and his team conceive his exquisite creations in the modern and hightech laboratory-atelier inaugurated in Valenza in 2007, making it one of the foremost companies in jewellery manufacturing. It also remains a large artisanal laboratory, where manual skills are exalted and expressed through the ability of highly qualified goldsmiths and stone-setters. Diamond pavé and the natural stones are envisaged in intense and exuberant tonalities and “arlecchino” or shaded effects, creating splendid optical illusions. JEWELLERY Carlo gives life to a series of flowering gardens to be worn in his collection. Tiny flowers or delicate little roses bloom forth from rings of various and wonderful shapes in a triumph of colours that, through the use of diamonds, precious stones and gold, makes Palmiero jewellery so unique.

Floral Treasures A precious flower bouquet that softly lies on three fingers of a woman’s delicate hand, Carlo adapts this new trend for his collections by transforming it into a treasure to look after and show. Winged Flowers An ocean of hues, colourful spots capture the sensitivity of curious eyes. Nature’s special symbiosis, between a flower and a butterfly, is once again represented in new creations that contribute to enrich this poetic collection. PALMIERO TIME Carlo Palmiero’s sensitivity for beauty has given rise to timeless jewellery watches, which represent a tribute to equally unforgettable icons of exceptional elegance. The pieces from the Cinema Collection are the result of painstaking research into the lives and careers of the film stars who inspired them. Audrey This watch is inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s performance of Moon River in Breakfast at

Roseto Sapphire roses rise from an intricate twine of precious golden branches covered in pure white diamonds. This elegant ring shank is decorated with thorns, just like a real rose twisting around the finger of the wearer. Wild Flowers Happiness for the eyes and the heart, a multitude of colourful flowers with joyful petals are moved by the wind and dance around a briolette-cut sapphire centre. 128 March 2016

Tiffany’s. On the dial a stroke of blue sapphires represents the river, surrounded by bright green diamonds. Ingrid The pink sapphires symbolise Ingrid Bergman’s gentleness and delicate beauty. The almost classic and unpretentiously elegant dial reminds of her refined attitude and harmonious manners. Grace This watch is an epitomisation of Princess Grace Kelly’s royalty through diamonds and precious stones. The skin or cloth texture is visible through its unusual dial shape. Luxury The jewellery watches from the Cinema Collection are presented with the finest quality white diamonds which fully cover the dial and the bracelet, giving life to these timepieces that are characterised by elegance and exclusivity. Palmiero Jewellery Design collections are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers. Call 17 131-122.

Winged Flowers

Audrey Floral Treasures

Luxury Grace

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Local Hospital Goes Global Dr Amer and, below, Dr Jafar present at the conference

The BSH team

Delegates from one local healthcare provider attended conferences and presented data and research at the region’s biggest health event.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Arab Health Exhibition & Congress has been successfully running for 41 years in Dubai, UAE and is recognised as one of the most important global events in the healthcare calendar. It is the second largest healthcare exhibition and congress in the world and the largest in the Middle East. The event offers invaluable chances to network, build relationships within the healthcare industry, showcase progress and achievement in the sector and to explore new opportunities with stakeholders in the field. Every year there are also around 20 medical sub conferences held as part of the exhibition and every conference is accredited by Cleveland Clinic. The 2016 event showcased more than 4,000 companies exhibiting their latest innovations to more than 130,000 healthcare professionals attending from 163 countries. The medical leaders of Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) are regular attendees and contributors and this year’s event was no different with representatives attending the Leaders in Health and Quality Management conferences as well as other specialities. Dr Kasim Ardati, CEO of Bahrain Specialist Hospital, presented a talk at the ME – Travel Medicine conference, titled ‘Case Study, Bahrain Specialist Hospital: antibiotic sensitivity and resistance patterns in the past 10 years’ showcasing data from BSH to raise awareness on isolated bacteria, antibiotic sensitivity and the precautions to take when we travel, from both a doctor’s and patient’s perspective.

Dr Kasim stressed how important it is to be aware of steps to choose the proper antibiotics for the specific type of germ, as they can develop resistance to antibiotics; as well as the importance of proper identification and selection of antibiotics in order to provide the best care to patients. In addition, BSH head of internal medicine and nephrology, consultant Dr Jafar Al-Said has fully organised the hypertension conference for the last two years. This year, cardiology specialist Dr Waleed and Dr Jafar gave presentations, representing Bahrain Specialist Hospital. Dr Kasim’s son, Dr Amer Ardati, who is an interventional cardiologist from the University of Illinois Chicago also presented a scientific paper at the same hypertension conference. At the same time, Dr Najah Zayyani attended the gastroenterology conference to ensure that Bahrain Specialist Hospital and Bahrain Gastroenterology & Hepatology Centre are kept abreast of all advances and progressions in these fields within the region. March 2016 129

marketplace Exfoliating While traditional facials have always involved removing dead skin as part of aiding cellular renewal, in the past few years, peels and microdermabrasion have taken this process even further. A salon expert says the result of this type of exfoliation is the stimulation of collagen and elastin production. When the skin is well exfoliated, the top layer of dead skin comes off and the face glows. This step of a facial helps boost the immune system of the skin and improves circulation which helps refine pores and lessen wrinkles. Feeding The ingredients contained in today’s professional skincare products are designed for deeper penetration into the skin. In addition, when microcurrent technology (which is non-invasive) is used, it helps the products to penetrate even more deeply. Also, increased hydration helps stimulate the energy centres of the cells to work more efficiently. This, in turn, helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, gives skin a smoother and firmer texture and improves facial contours. JOZ SALON & SPA

Glowing Skin Many women swear by facials as the secret to a healthy looking, younger skin. Here’s an in-depth look at this ritual.

Make facials a part of your regular grooming routine to soothe your skin and get that fresh look. Joz Salon & Spa explains how the basic steps of regular facials can help maintain your glow. Cleaning “The increased level of pollutants we are exposed to leave dirt, grime and even chemicals on our skin,” says a salon facialist. “This step in a facial helps clean out clogged pores so the skin can breath, preventing blackheads and breakouts.” In addition, the cleaning phase of the facial helps address the free radical damage done by sun exposure. Professional, sonic-powered, hand-held cleansing machines, combined with recent skincare product breakthroughs, allow for deeper penetration into the skin.

Calming The last phase of a facial is designed to calm the skin and bring it back into balance. The biggest breakthrough is the use of LED light, which helps take down inflammation and targets conditions such as premature aging and hyper-pigmentation. Professionals say that by getting regular facials, at every phase of the process you are taking small steps to negate the effects of aging on your skin, making it less likely that you will have to spend the big bucks on more expensive techniques down the road. Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449 for women’s facial and 16 031-126 for men’s facial.

Analysing The latest technology in skin analysis allows a facialist to more accurately analyse a client’s skin and prescribe appropriate products. Clear LED light illumination systems, that are built into magnifying lenses, can help a customer pinpoint the problem areas and take preventative or corrective actions, sooner rather than later. “If a client knows they have a clump of skin damage on their forehead, they can work with their facialist to more aggressively treat the situation,” says a salon representative. 130 March 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HILAL CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS

A Real Estate Trading Hub

Gulf Property Show, a boutique showcase for real estate and property developments, kicks off in Bahrain next month. The show has grown year on year and showcases commercial and residential real estate developments in Bahrain, the GCC, Turkey, USA, UK, and Europe to a targeted audience of investors. Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of organisers Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE), says: “The Gulf Property Show is a trusted window to the GCC’s real estate and property development industry. Bahrain’s financial and real estate regulatory framework is a contributory factor to the success of the show in attracting the Kingdom’s leading developers to showcase and launch current and future developments.” In 2015 the show was attended by 7,200 unique registered visitors who ensured that many developers left with sold-out developments. Ahmed Suleiman, HCE exhibition director, says: “The growth of Gulf Property Show for 2016 looks positive, we have strong enquiries from both Bahrain and internationally for the remaining spaces. www.bahrainthismonth.com

“The 2015 Gulf Property Show was considered by many of our exhibitors to be a business success. One exhibitor sold 24 pieces of land during the three days of the exhibition, while other developers completely sold-out the project on display at the show.” Gulf Property Show 2016 carries with it the strategic sponsorship of Diyaar Al Muharraq and Manara Developments and the support of

the Bahrain Property Developers Association. The show takes place alongside two other major exhibitions – gulfBID and gulf Interiors, continuing the B2B and B2C platforms for the construction, interior and property sectors in the Northern Gulf. The Gulf Property Show 2016 is set to take place from April 26 to 28 at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre.

March 2016 131

bystander

Lirth & Jameela

Bahrain Hotel held a media BBQ Launch Sheraton launch of its BBQ nights by the pool. Cristalyn, Sameera, Mariam & Thomas

Cerlo, Fracesca, Linda, Jamal & Jo

Staff Party Cristalyn & Thomas

Roland & Badriya

The Sheraton Bahrain Hotel held its annual staff party.

Rama & Mamdouh

Edwin & Anneli

Othman Ahmed & Abdulla Ebrahim

JFC Bahrain Amwaj is located

Programs

in Amwaj business park.

Personal Training - Insanity - Crossfit - Triathlon Beach workout - Group Workout

Facilities Crossfit Box â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gym For more info 33002592 - 7707220 @jfcbahrain www.jfcbahrain.com

132 March 2016

Open from Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace GLORIA JEAN’S COFFEES

Hot Cup of Happiness A good cup of coffee can brighten anyone’s day. Here is one café that provides your daily fix in a delicious and innovative style. Gloria Jean’s Coffees is Australia’s leading speciality coffee house and, since 1996, its footprints have grown to over 300 locations throughout Australia and over 800 cafés in 39 markets worldwide. As a coffee speciality, it has brought awardconsidered – be it our coffee, our food, our winning brews, world-class barista expertise, merchandise or just the way we do business,” the choice of single origin blends and whole bean coffees and specialty teas to thousands of says Gloria Jeans’s Coffees management. With eight, state-of-the-art coffee houses in people around the world and Bahrain is no Bahrain, Gloria Jean’s Coffees boasts a great exception. In a very short span of time Gloria variety of food and beverages, complemented Jean’s has become one of the leading coffee by a unique brand of service style. Its Arad houses in the Kingdom. outlet has even started serving a hearty Whether it is a range of new whole bean breakfast, which is fast becoming very popular. coffees, new beverages or even the new look of the coffee houses, coming up with fresh ides Its latest coffee house at Lulu Hidd has a contemporary design and reflects the constant and creating something new is at Gloria Jean’s innovation the brand strives for. centre of operations. “We love innovating and Gloria Jeans-Bahrain This Month March issue- 191mm width x 125mm height.pdf 1 2/21/2016 not a day goes by where a new idea is not Visit www.gloriajeansbh.com

11:07:15 AM

CMY

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 133

marketplace AMA SPORTS – PUMA

Bolt Into Action This global sport brand’s most energised footwear now provides ultimate cushioning and responsiveness for today’s runners. Following the introduction of the IGNITE running shoe collection in 2015, the global sports brand PUMA is proud to announce the latest addition – the PUMA IGNITE Ultimate – its most responsive running shoe yet. Optimising comfort and durability and designed for a wide range of runners, this new trainer features superior cushioning that disperses impact forces. It provides optimal responsiveness and energy return to help you move faster, for longer. With comfort and performance at the top of most athletes’ agendas, the innovative IGNITE foam powers every stride, offering physical ease and energy return with every workout. Technology has been researched relentlessly to ensure the fabrics and materials PUMA uses, combined with the way the products are made, keep the quality high and the performance consistent. With raised mid-sole heights and an articulated chevron design, the IGNITE Ultimate provides definitive cushioning and receptiveness, optimal rebound and comfort to keep you running longer and further and with more ease. Additionally, the Polyurethane blend in the mid-sole

provides superior energy return and immediate step-in comfort that feels good from the first moment you set out on the track. The IGNITE Ultimate’s unique mid-sole configuration allows the shoe to compress during landing and then bounce back to increase return of energy, allowing the performer to receive the best running experience. PUMA’s IGNITE foam, that has been decked out with a three-layer mesh upper, provides the ultimate comfort and breathability, the moment you step into the shoe. The trainer has impact guidance grooves that run from the heel to the toe, set in place in a transition line which mimics the natural running gait of your feet.

On the road to the Olympic Games in Rio, PUMA’s fantastic roster of elite track and field athletes include the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, who will be training in the IGNITE Ultimate. “At PUMA, we continue to push for innovation in all our products – it’s a never-ending pursuit and the goal is to create the fastest products in the market,” says Kohei Hagio, PUMA senior head of Product Line Management, Running Training Footwear. “With the IGNITE Ultimate, we know we’ve elevated the IGNITE technology further and we won’t stop there.” The shoe is available in men’s and women’s styles at the PUMA store, located on the second floor of City Centre Bahrain. Call 17 178-046 or go to puma.com/running.

134 March 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

CERAM DENTAL CENTER

Dr Haider Alfayadh

A Smile to be Proud Of This leading dental centre offers a competitive list of services that aim to help make your smile a winning one. Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth and are designed to blend in with your others. They are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. In fact, the development and use of implants are one of the biggest advances in dentistry. Dental implants are often the first choice when it comes to restoring and repairing damaged teeth. Strong and stable, a dental implant restores a lost tooth so that it looks, feels, fits and functions like a natural one. Traditional, tooth-supported dental bridges generally last from five to seven years, but, at some point, they may need to be replaced. While dental implants may need periodic adjustments, they can last a lifetime when properly placed and cared for. Dental implants also retain your natural face shape and smile. A face without teeth can sag

and appear sunken and sad. One of the other benefits is that implants protect healthy bone. Leaving empty spaces in your mouth after losing one or more teeth can lead to additional health issues, such as the loss and deterioration of some of your jawbone. When it is not being used to support a natural tooth, the jawbone deteriorates, losing its strength and firmness. Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves and stimulates natural bone, actually helping to stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss. Dentures may slip when you eat, talk, smile, laugh, kiss, yawn or cough, so that you have to reposition them back into place. Dental implants are fixed in place and fuse naturally with your jawbone, meaning your replacement teeth won’t move, click or shift. So if you are interested in dental implants, it’s a good idea to discuss it carefully with a dental specialist. Dr Haider Alfayadh, cosmetic and implantology specialist of Ceram Dental Center is very happy to give you a free consultation. Call 17 131-123.

ROTARY CUB OF SULMANIYA

Paddle to Beat Diabetes The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya is preparing for the 2016 Raft Race, to be held at Al Bander Resort on April 15. The annual Raft Race is this Rotary Club’s major fund-raiser, designed for teams to compete against each other on the lagoon and in the open sea, with the stated intention of having fun and winning for charity. This year’s winner will be the fight against Diabetes, for which Bahrain has the world’s fifth highest incidence. Funds raised at the event will benefit those suffering from the disease and help to fund research. The Rotary Raft Race is expected to attract up to 40 different teams of eight people each, with both men’s and mixed teams competing. Entry costs BD375 per team and the event promises to be a fun day out for the whole family. Sponsorship is also available to both the corporate sector and private individuals, with the funds destined to be used for the same charitable effort. Started in 1977, the annual Raft Race has www.bahrainthismonth.com

raised more than BD2 million over the years, with a range of charities benefitting such as: a special unit at Salmaniya Hospital for children with blood diseases; a workshop for the disabled at the rehabilitation centre; and a mobile education unit to promote weight and nutrition awareness.

If you would be interested to take part or support the race contact Rotary on the following: Email: ri2450@batelco.com.bh , Twitter: @rotarysulmaniya Facebook: Rotary Club of Sulmaniya Instagram: @rotarysulmaniya Snapchat: @rotarysulmaniya March 2016 135

marketplace ALDO

Inspiration is Everywhere

On the Go For the man on the move, ALDOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trainers in black, blue or nude shades are not only functional but also make for a smart casual look.

The fresh Spring/Summer 2016 campaign launched by this popular footwear and accessories label is geared towards individuality and personal style. The campaign highlights playful imagination that is meant to spark excitement and interest in the brand, showing the ALDO shopper a myriad of ways in which to flaunt their personality. Call 16 686-202 City Centre Bahrain or 16 686-236 Seef Mall.

Colour Pop Surprise yourself with a shock of colour, with shoes that reflect the gaiety of summer. Choose from delightful lime greens, delicious pinks or striking blues, or a bold scarlet to turn heads.

Desert Queen Leather-finish peep-toe booties and suedes in hushed tones of sepia and midnight blue will never fail to make for a smart style statement.

Own Your Place Loafers, boots and dress shoes in black, caramel and chocolate tones are what every man needs to complete his final look, no matter what the occasion.

Status Update Choose accessories that beat the summer sun and give you a cool vibe at the same time. Think scarves, wide-brimmed hats and dark eyeshades. Tote around a floral bag or one with metallic fixtures for a sunny disposition.

Sparkle Away Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing like a little shimmer to make you party ready. Choose embellished slip-ons for a lunch date or super-shiny high heels for a night about town. 136 March 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

SuperMartXé Bushido restaurant and lounge hosted the global entertainment party brand SuperMartXé.

Feras

Andy, JB & Beri

Art Exhibition

Colleen & Buffy

Hussain Al Noaimi launched his home gallery and art exhibition ‘The Good Life Artoholic’ at his residence in Saar. Stephen, Tanvi & Hussain Al Noaimi

Ahmed

Zoe, Ashley, Wen & Jaison Jennifer & Yasmine

Samantha & Cheryl

Laura & Najib

Asha’s Food Tasting

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cynthia

Hussain & Ajay

Richard & Muthu

Lizzy & Muthu

Pearlyn, Rania & Sallyann

Asha’s restaurant at City Centre Bahrain held a food tasting of its new menu ‘Live Like a Maharaja’

Anupa & Ravi

Ashish

Sabby & Iqbal

Sayed

Prabhat & Shiva

March 2016 137

marketplace

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Looking Ahead A business and tourist hub in the Middle East, Bahrain offers world-class hospitality for all budgets. Being a forerunner in the industry, this hotel preps up as the tourist influx increases in the next couple of months.

138 March 2016

Located not far from Adliya’s café and boutique restaurant district, Ramada Hotel, has enjoyed a loyal customer base for many years. Its general manager Matthias Hellweg, who started the hotel’s refurbishment process last year, is quite optimistic about the country’s business and leisure tourism and what it means for Ramada Bahrain. “The country has always enjoyed a steady influx of visitors, even when the economy had slowed down. Now with more stability in the marketplace, new properties are opening their doors, and many big brands have forayed into the hospitality sector,” Matthias says. An industry veteran, he has worked across Europe and the GCC for 26 years and brings his wealth of experience to Ramada Hotel Bahrain. He believes, Bahrain will have more attractions in the future to compete with other countries in order to attract more international and well-travelled tourists. “The Kingdom will become a trendsetter again, as it has been a pioneer in many aspects; with Jewellery Arabia, the travel expo, etc,” he opines. “The responsible bodies have recognised the importance to build diverse infrastructure to maintain and consolidate a firm and durable growth in tourism.” Technology has greatly changed the way the industry

Matthias Hellweg

functions today in terms of the modes and approach of consumption. Matthias attributes this in large measure to the democratisation of smartphones. “Till a few years ago, travel agents were the main players in tourism. Today it’s all been shifted online and directly onto your phone. The online travel agents and wholesalers have completely changed the way hotel rooms are marketed, sold and consumed,” he adds. He also notes that in times of instant customer feedback and viral communication, all service providers and, especially the hospitality industry, have to really be on top of their game. “Ramada Bahrain’s guest country statistics read like the United Nations General Assembly, almost all nationalities have been hosted by us.” With increasing number of tourists entering the country each year, Matthias says, the Kingdom and Ramada Hotel Bahrain are well equipped to play the perfect host. “Bahrain’s hotel industry is ready, willing and able to cater even for the double amount of vistors received last year,” he adds. “The infrastructure supports all levels of travellers; from budget to luxury. The extension of the airport will further allow Bahrain to be ready for the next generation of corporate and leisure travellers.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Valentine’s Day

Upstairs Downstairs Upstairs Downstairs held a Valentine’s special for guests. Kimberley & Peter

Virginie & Oliver

Kevin & Claude

Mamdouh & Wafa

Ken & Pauline

Dev & Dixie

Nancy & Jack

Hala & Nader

Alex & Daniel

Maki Guests enjoyed a taste of Valentine’s at Maki Bahrain. Ryan & Kim

John & Maria

Sophie & Rece

Andy & Sheela

Zaid, Moe, Rasha & Mira

Mövenpick Mövenpick Hotel celebrated a Havana Love Affair at Flamingo Bar & Lounge. Bijan, Pauline & Vera

Rita & Ramy

Naji & Aline

Houssam & Rita

Saeed & Susan

Cavallo Nightclub venue, Cavallo, held an all red Valentines Day party. Lea, Santi & Jo

Catherine, John & friends

140 March 2016

Elizabeth, James & Martin

Rose, Mai, Nea, Kris, Princess & friends

The crowd goes wild

Princess, Nea, Rose, May, David & Kath

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

DJ Sabrina at Ibrida DJ Sabrina Terrence performed at the Ramee Grandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nightclub venue, Ibrida. Ahmed, Dj Sabrina & Ali

Mardi Gras Kabayanz nightclub at Ramee Rose Hotel held a Mardi Gras party featuring the Stellar Band and DJ Francis. The Stellar Band

Tet, Julie & Admer

Dev Live

Asja & Vittal

Hassan, Yaqub & Hussain

Mohammed

Mike, Vlad & Daniel

Jason & Kareem

Beauty and the Beast

International star Dev performed live in at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nighclub venue, Ibrida for the Valentines weekend.

Club XS hosted the Beauties and the Beast night featuring DJ Katerina, celebrity rapper Tony Attala and the GO GO dancers.

Dev performing

Margie, Jashraj, Ankush, DJ Katarina, Tony Atallah & Olga

Jamaica & Johnny

Aubansha & Shimi

Cielong, Hung & Sam

Maya, Sipa & Tina

Khalid & Pnon

Temo & Julia

Mo & Abdulla

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jea & Bhanwar

Khalid & Tina

Hameed, Salman, Ahmed & friend

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marketplace

BAHRAIN TOURISM & EXHIBITIONS AUTHORITY

Food in Focus Learn everything there is to know about this popular industry as one of Bahrain’s popular food and hospitality exhibitions returns this year.

142 March 2016

One of the country’s premier events, the 8th Annual Food & Hospitality Expo, makes a comeback at Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre from April 19-21. It is being organised by the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and supported by Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism. The expo will provide business-to-business networking opportunities for professionals within this ever-growing industry, with many renowned hotels, restaurants, food processing and catering corporations displaying the latest in food produce and cuisine innovations. Many varied cuisines will be showcased due to the support of the various embassies in Bahrain, sharing their culinary experiences. The exciting event brings together industry professionals including food producers, distributors, refrigeration and packaging experts, kitchen and food manufacturing equipment producers, caterers and hoteliers as well as chefs and business owners from the industry, both locally and internationally. The programme of events includes seminars on food industry-related subjects and food tasting sessions. A chefs’ cooking competition will also be held, along with a series of live-cooking presentations by local talents, which will be a definite crowd pleaser at this culinary spring festival. Top chefs representing the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel; The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain; Gulf Hotel; Mercure Grand Hotel Seef; the InterContinental Regency Bahrain; and Al Areen Palace Hotel & Spa are among the selected main participants. The expo will also feature talks by world-renowned

speakers on food and hospitality, alongside chefs’ and visitors’ competitions throughout the three days, with prizes to be won. The UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Spain, Thailand and the USA will showcase their best dietary produce and impressive hospitality. The event will also see the involvement of well-reputed members of Bahrain’s hospitality sector and the greatest concentration of buyers in one place for the food and catering trade. It will host important industry players from key sectors such as four- and five-star hotels; restaurants; caterers and organisers; equipment suppliers; food and beverage technology; packing and frozen foods; food processing technology; ready-toeat products; healthy and organic foods and snacks; the soft drinks industry; manufacturers and producers; hygiene experts; cleaning and cooking equipment; food transportation companies; chillers and containers as well as sweets and weddings suppliers. Bahrain Gas, Al Aujan, Kanoo, Trafco, Aljazira, Hotel & Restaurant Supplies, Al Maskati and Al Halabi are among the regular exhibitors at this annual food expo. Local societies in Bahrain will also be joining the crowd, sharing opinions and expertise at this event, which attracted more than 10,000 visitors last year. BTEA is positive about the Food & Hospitality Expo this year, which is taking place simultaneously with the Health & Wellness Expo that is attracting the health conscious and fitness fans. The opening hours of the exhibition are from 10am-7pm. Visit www.foodexpo.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace business bites

BFC’s Dragon City outlet

JS Bank Opens in Bahrain Pakistan-based JS Bank opened its first international branch in Bahrain, targeting the GCC, and eventually the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA). It will serve regional businesses with interests in Pakistan, nonresident Pakistani expatriates, other Pakistani banks without overseas branches and Pakistani government entities. Its service offerings include trade finance, treasury, institutional banking, corporate and private banking and wealth management. Waqar Ul Islam, an accomplished

international banker with more than 38 years of professional experience, has been appointed as executive vice president and general manager of the Bahrain branch.

Alshaya Joins VIVA Rewards Scheme To further enhance Bahrain’s first telecom loyalty rewards programme, VIVA Bahrain is now offering greater flexibility and increased benefits to its customers with redemption of telecom benefits like free VIVA to VIVA calls, as well as an opportunity to redeem points in exchange for products and services from a wide range of outlets such as its recently announced exclusive tie-up with the Alshaya Group, which gives customers the opportunity

to use their points at over 30 of the world’s most recognised retail brands operated by the group.

Bahrain Financing Company (BFC) opened its latest branch in the new Dragon City mall at Diyar Al Muharraq. The branch has a new innovative shopping concept to cater to business owners and shop workers within the mall who require international payment and currency exchange services, as well as to district residents. It will offer BFC’s diverse range of fast and reliable international money transfer products as well as a choice of over 40 global currencies to buy or sell.

Business Network Lunch The French Chamber of Commerce & Industry in Bahrain (FCCIB) hosted a business networking kick-off luncheon at the Capital Club. Jean-Christohpe Durand, FCCIB president, gave a welcome address and update on the FCCIB activities. Aurelian, Abdulwahab Al Hawaj, Jean-Christophe, Abdulla Juma, Jean de Tinguy, Waleed Kanoo, Rim Jalal, Bassim Al Saie, Vincent Pluchet, Waleed Al Rayes & Jean-Baptiste

GARMCO Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill (GARMCO) held a ceremony to launch its new remelt expansion. Jean-Baptiste, Salah Al Araifi & Zeenat Dawani

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HE Zayed Alzayani, right, tours the new facility

Jean Durand, Jean & Jacques Michel

March 2016 143

bystander

Keskon Fabrique La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art held its first exhibition opening with a jazz concert and dinner. Nicolas Pennaneacâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;h & Apple

Kia & Yvonne

Ciara & Joanne

Nicolas, Eva & Dejana

Suzanne & Joe

Romeo and Juliet

Hans & Rachel

Marwa & Safa

Nicola, Christina & Claudia

Anee, Luna & Eva

Natalie & Roger

Christophe & Laurence

Kate & Natalie

Luna & Erica

Raya & Layla

Alya & Sahana

Entertainment Plus hosted S4Kâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Romeo & Juliet musical in Bahrain, at the Cultural Hall. A scene from the play

Louis, Murray & Callum

144 March 2016

Apple & Fatima

Tamar, Rahnah & Lulwa

Jordan, George & Sebog

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US Alumni Reception

The American Chamber of Commerce Bahrain (AmCham) held a networking reception for the US Alumni in Bahrain. HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador, was the guest speaker on the occasion. Dignitaries at the reception

Nadia & Ann

Sara, Smar & Hussain

Mary & George

Irina & Greg

Murder Mystery Night

The Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals held a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Murder In The Thirtiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; murder mystery dinner at the British Club. Ava & Karen

Alison & Shay

Susan & Barry

Cancer Walk

David & Ann

Esther & Yuliya

George

Will & Chris

David & Sawsan

Catriona & Jeremy

Alan

Bahrain Cancer Society held a 40 Prevention 40 Cure walk-a-thon at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. The walk-a-thon flag-off

www.bahrainthismonth.com

145 March 2016

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OTHER EVENTS

City Centre Bahrain rewarded 10 lucky winners of its raffle draw, with exclusive couple’s packages.

Elsa, Bhagat, Kundan, Almas & Mario were presented with ‘Employee of the Month’ certificates for Lanterns Group.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of its original recipe in the GCC region, KFC rewarded 150 winners of the KFC’s Gold Coins competition, at its branch in Hamala.

Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel’s in-house guests from Europe and the Middle East under the Commercial Law Development Program of the US Department of Commerce participated in oral advocacy training in Bahrain. Above, Abdul Rahim Al Sayed, general manager, Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel, along with management and participants.

Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa inaugurated the 2nd Bahrain Schools Expo and the Mother and Child Expo 2016, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

A Bahrain-Saudi ladies’ friendly tennis match was held at Hamala Beach Club.

146 March 2016

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), Economic Development Board ( EDB), and the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research unveiled the 11th Spring of Culture programme at a press conference held at the Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort, Riffa.

A press conference was held to announce the 9th annual Jawad Mini Marathon ‘Run, Walk for Sickle Cell’, at the Jawad Dome, Barbar. From left, Zakariya Alkadhem, head of Bahrain Sickle Cell Society, Mohammed Al Asfoor, Adnan Alqassab, event director, Jawad Mahmood, general manager, food retail division, Jawad Business Group & Malik Alghasrah, PR manager, Northern Governate.

Bahrain This Month ladies were treated to an evening of games at the Ozone arcade at Sitra Mall.

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MOSTLY BUSINESS

Bahrain’s annual Autumn Fair 2016 was officially inaugurated by Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, Acting Undersecretary for Tourism, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention centre. The event was held under the patronage of HE Zayed Alzayani, Minister for Industry, Commerce & Tourism.

HE Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunicaitons, paid a visit to Wasel Taxi Company. The 2016 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix was announced at a press conference held at the Bahrain International Circuit.

The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held a press conference to announce its upcoming fundraiser ‘The Raft Race’, to be held at Al Bander Resort.

United Nations Industrial Development Organisation held a press conference to announce the Young Entrepreneurs International forum.

Steppingstone Global held a ‘Strategic Performance Management’ workshop at The Domain Hotel & Spa.

InterNations Fun InterNations Manama held a social gathering at the Brazil Rodizio Grill and Lounge in Adliya. Burak & Hanan

Bazen Get-together

Dev, Stephen & Celine

Freddie and Courtney Bazen hosted a friends and family get-together for Freddie’s dad and sister who visited Bahrain. Yasmin, Julie, Freddie, Courtney & Imil

Lada & Ahmed

Sherry, Brigitte, Sophie & Freddie Sr.

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Mark & David

Ajay, Sam & Jaya

Shabana & Aouatef

Esther

March 2016 147

Great Value

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‫ل الـفـاخـرة‬ Re-thinking March 2016 149 of s

tarotscope

PISCES Feb 21 – Mar 20

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 You have not been feeling your best recently and it could be that an old injury is flaring up and may require medical assistance. Get this looked at because trying to ignore it isn’t the solution and the longer you leave matters the worse they may

No matter how hard you try to hide your

get. On matters of family, those of you with children may have to come

feelings, it’s going to be difficult to disguise

upheaval and change in your circumstances should not be ruled out.

them for much longer when it comes to a work colleague to whom you are being drawn ever closer. The only reason you haven’t been open about your emotions thus far is because you are unsure whether they will be reciprocated but the good news is that the signs all seem to point to a positive outcome if you are prepared

to terms with a very difficult reality and the prospect of a massive Card of the Month — The Two Of Cups

CANCER June 21 – July 20 After a number of disappointments and false starts on the business front, things will begin to look like they are really moving somewhere now and this will give you good heart after some difficult times recently. You are also going to feel much more appreciated and this will make your work output all the more productive as a consequence. If you have any concerns about a partner’s feelings towards you, then why not approach them about it. Card of the Month — Strength

LEO July 21 – August 21 A recent death has left you feeling isolated and full of questions about your life and for the first time you are even doubting the hitherto rock solid relationship you are

to take the chance.

involved in. This profound change could lead to you taking time away to

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

going to be an uncertain time. On the work front things could be a lot

reassess your options and gather your thoughts again ahead of what is clearer and a good opportunity to change positions will be presented to you on the 17th.

For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Card of the Month — The Moon

VIRGO August 22 – September 21 ARIES March 21 – April 20 You’re going to be particularly busy this March as you seek to push through new initiatives within the workplace and also put the finishing touches to a personal project that is likely to bring you in a tidy little side income. What is of primary importance for you over this frantic period is the ability to put some time aside to relax in the company of loved ones. Don’t neglect your own needs or the needs of those closest to you. Card of the Month — The King Of Cups

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20 Financially things are likely to be very good for you this month with a big windfall landing on your lap sometime around the 21st that will really arrive out of the blue but set you up for a comfortable few months ahead. Emotionally, things might not be so clear-cut and a new relationship you have recently embarked upon is struggling to go anywhere so you need to quickly decide whether it’s really worth the effort. Card of the Month — The Sun 150 March 2016

Troubling news will reach your ears this month and you will be drawn into a conflict when you discover that a colleague has been undermining your efforts in the workplace and taking credit for your own endeavours. How you handle the matter will dictate what action is taken but you shouldn’t be afraid to protect your interests nor take things through to whatever conclusion is required. You need to be decisive and deliberate about this. Card of the Month — The Lovers

LIBRA September 22 – October 21 You are struggling through some of the most difficult times of your life right now and although you have resigned yourself to accepting certain restrictions and are in part aware of what lies ahead, that doesn’t mean it is going to be any easier to deal with. However, after sitting yourself down in March and accepting what you need to change in your life to make things better, you can remain confident in the knowledge that progress will bring about a positive outcome in the long run. Card of the Month — The Nine Of Swords www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index SCORPIO October 22 – November 21 You have a lot going for you but you need to be careful that someone with devious intentions doesn’t damage your ambitions as you set about planning for the future. With so much happening, the momentum of all this positive activity might mask the negative actions of a troubled woman who seeks to take out her own unhappy frustrations on you. No matter how friendly she may seem, no good can come from it so guard yourself against her disingenuous approach. Card of the Month — The Ten Of Cups

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 This month will see final closure on a long running, emotional distraction and you will feel as if a huge burden has been removed from your shoulders. For the first time in a long while you will be able to see your future for what it is and, whilst not everything will be as rosy, at least you will be able to better plan your progress for the coming months. Romantically, an unsatisfactory relationship is forcing you to seriously reconsider your commitment to a partner. Card of the Month — The Page Of Wands

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 You have hit by a wave of enthusiasm and drive this month and much of it can be attributed to the appearance of a new person in your life who has allowed you to emerge confidently from your shell. How long this new sense of urgency and determination lasts is anyone’s guess but it’s best to take advantage of the situation and channel that energy towards some positive pursuits. You are a completely different person when you let go of your inhibitions. Card of the Month — The Devil

AQUARIUS January 22 – February 20 It’s all change for your sign this month as you move out of your comfort zone at work and decide to take on board a new challenge in a completely different environment. It’s going to be scary and it might even take some time to adjust but this is going to be the best for you in the long run. The truth is that you have needed a fresh perspective for some time now and now that you have found the courage to do something about it, you need to carry things through. Card of the Month — Death

Kurt Cobain

Chuck Norris

Rihanna

FAMOUS AQUARIUS THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear Aeropostale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Bahrain Apparel Trading . . . . . . . . . . 65 Bhs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Tod’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3 PUMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,5

Home & Furnishing Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Spirit Antiques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro (Aran) . . . . . . . 89 Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro (Osim) . . . . . . . 93

Hotels & Serviced Residences Asdal Gulf Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Golden Tulip Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Premier Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Ramada Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Ramee Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Ramee Rose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 The Four Seasons Hotel . . . . . . . . 21, 31

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Panerai) . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . 6,7 Asia Jewellers (Versace) . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sharif Group (Smalto) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 37 Ceram Dental Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . . . . 71 Behbehani Brothers (VW) . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Subaru) . . . . . . . . 67 EK. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC International Motor Trading Agency

(Mazda) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mohd Jalal & Sons (Suzuki) . . . . . . . . . . . National Motor Co. (Cadillac) . . . . . . . . . Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Almoayyed Motors:Ford) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

73 74 12 15

Others A.J.M. Kooheji & Sons (LG) . . . . . . . . 99 Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 33 Al Hilal Group:Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Awal Gulf Manufacturing Co. (Pearl) 97 Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Balam Pichkari . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Bin Faqeeh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Front Cover Continental Office Equipment & Systems (Lucell) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Economic Development Board (Centre for Culture & Development) . . . . . . . IFC Emirates Group (Emirates Airlines) . 25 Gajria Electronics (Chigo) . . . . . . . . . . 96 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mega Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Ministry of Industry, Commerce & Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Seven Leisure (Coral Bay) . . . . . . 27, 61 Yateem Airconditioning (Carrier) . . .100

Restaurants & Cafés Al Bindaira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Crust & Crema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Gloria Jean’s Coffees . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Monkey Cookies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Nicole’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 T.G.I.Friday’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge 103 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Other leading Cold Stores and

News Stands

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2016 151

lastword

Old Man’s Rant

GEG HOPKINS “My Facebook password was cracked, now I have to change my birthday.” Duh! Don’t worry, the NSA, GCHQ, the Illuminati and Daesh will have already stored all your exploits and rated your ‘intelligence cachet’, which is PC for stupidity. Yahoo is gasping its last breath and, as big as it is, Facebook addiction will wane, as do all other fads, the moment something interesting, new and positively inane comes along. Quite what that might be is anyone’s guess, but it won’t be a reborn ‘Myspace’, which actually required individual creativity. With data bandwidths and speeds begging to get better, perhaps some web-based form of self-made tedious ‘reality TV’ upload might struggle to emerge – that is if our friendly politicians don’t continue to try and ban everything – which questions the very soul and purpose of a smart phone in the first place. Maybe those will be banned, too, and Bahrain will have its own unique identity like Cuba? At risk of thoroughly offending our deluded great friends, nice people and dear colleagues in the broadcast media; let’s face it, in Bahrain we have such nonexistent broadcast platforms drowned by blind incompetence, what else can we do? Then again, in utter despair there’s nonsensical talk of unclarified laws being 152 March 2016

introduced, if not already in place, “banning the upload of video and audio”. So what? We can still log on to Facebook, Instagram or whatever, but only as voyeurs. Facebook has overtaken entire lives, but at least you alone are responsible for exposing yourself on it, whereas Google + exposes your entire life to the world if you don’t disable the automatic upload and share buttons which you had no idea about and which are set to ‘on’ by default. It eats your bandwidth as saucy ‘selfies’, tasteless ‘Whatsapp’ exchanges, kinks and classifieds are Androided to the cloud with you utterly oblivious. Data harvesting in full swing, your profile has been established and, depending what pictures were posted on Google +, ‘targeted advertising’ pushes you a message offering you an Anne Summers enlargement kit or worse. “Behind every successful person there’s a deactivated Facebook account.” Endless regurgitation of the same videos and banners and you get possessive and post; “I already posted that last year,” as if you were the intellectual and originator! Inane comments and pictures of your breakfast get 250 likes, but post a riveting, well-crafted missive about psychopaths in our midst and only your sister gives you a single like. Low self-esteem, depression, even suicide could prevail. ‘Death by Facebook’ will be written into law within the next 10 years for sure. Besides, before social media, did we ever photograph what we were about to

eat, then run around and get the film developed, making 2,000 copies and sending the picture off to all our friends? Umm, no! Then on a roll with your wit or compassion, like a berk you respond to a friend’s post without reading the previous comments. Sadly, 40 other friends just posted exactly the same thing before you. Not to offend, each receives a ‘like’, of course. Thankfully millions of animal lover videos make up for the dirge and wealth of bad grammar, spelling and otiose Facebook content which we are all addicted to. To remove yourself from this inanity sees cold turkey-virtual isolation set in. Your assumed importance to life soon nags – so log-on, you must. But, as the smarter among us disable our Facebook accounts, this targeted advertising will still be pushing new caravan accessories to the trailer park brigade or special offers for Walmart intellectuals, and Zuckerberg will still be a godzillionaire. The ‘who’s been looking at you’ feature has yet to be implemented on Facebook, deliberately (Linkedin do it for a fee), otherwise all the virtual perving of your pictures would stop. Yes, Facebook can be cruel and lonely too if you have so few friends and Facebook keeps reminding you. Then, when no amount of make-up is going to cut the mustard, as in this wall post from someone called Sharron. Darren Smith: “You look sexy…” Sharron: ‘Thank you, Dad.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

15th to 19th March 2016

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