Bahrain This Month - March 2017

AIR CONDITIONING | HOME FURNISHING | FORD EDGE TEST DRIVE

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Spring of Culture More than 30 events

Interviews

• EDB chief executive Khalid Al Rumaihi • HE Qi Zhenhong, Chinese Ambassador • Fraud Buster Mark Van Leewarden

Nightlife

• Bryan Adams at the BIC • Brian McFadden celebrating St Patrick’s Day

Dining

Buffets and brunches across the island

March 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 3

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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shine collection

Issue 235

Contents March 2017 COVER STORY 20-26 Spring of Culture

The annual cultural extravaganza returns with performances from world-renowned artists, music, dance, workshops and more.

HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during March 2017:

20

28

Drag Racing Championship:

The Jet Funny Car Show on the sidelines of the final round of the competition.

Twelfth Night:

30

Entertainment+ returns with another treat from ‘The Bard’.

32 Up

Close and Personal:

Magician Joshua Jay gives an intimate show.

34 Trot

On:

Cherry Tree Trot at Bahrain International Circuit.

36 Holi

26

42

Moly:

Get reading for a colourful day at the Lost Paradise of Dilmun.

38 A

Seafaring Tale:

Manama Theatre Club tackles Connor McPherson.

40 Raft

Race Action:

Taking to the water with the Rotary Club of Sulmaniya.

After Dark 42 Rock

On:

Canadian superstar Bryan Adams in concert.

INTERVIEWS Finger on the Pulse

44

45

46

EDB CEO Khalid Al Rumaihi on Bahrain’s commercial future and diversification of the economy.

46

A Cooperative Friendship

HE Qi Zhenhong, Chinese Ambassador, on the growing friendship between China and Bahrain.

47

The Dream Job

48

Buon Appetito!

Jean-Paul Dantil, the new man in charge at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

52

54 Bystander This month our Bystander pages recorded India’s Republic Day, the opening of Gulf Industry Fair and the Bahrain Family Expo 2017. Our photographers were on hand for the ribbon-cutting of the new Symmetria institute, we caught up with guests at the Bahrain British Business Forum’s networking lunch and attended a number of exciting car launches.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Taher Makkiyah reveals his plans for Baci restaurant.

50

Master of His Trade

52

Fraudsters Beware

Antony Hurtis on getting the best from his staff.

Mark Van Leewarden gives insights into international fraud investigation.

53

Swiss Sophistication

Hotelier Henri Kennedie on his group’s takeover of a favourite Bahrain property.

54

AmCham Bahrain Hosts Regional Forum

Qays Zu’bi reveals what’s in store for a major event happening this month.

March 2017 5

Shell Star Automatic

excellence of time

Issue 235

Contents March 2017 61

Motoring

A Drive to Remember:

Charlie Holding gets behind the wheel of the new Ford Edge.

62

Elegance Meets Performance:

The Mercedes-Benz C Class gets a facelift.

72

64 Practicality

and Style:

Check out the JAC Refine Minibus.

66 Revamped

for Success:

New look and new technologies from Audi.

67 A

Sporting Addition:

Porsche expands its range of GTS models.

68 Fiercer

Than Ever:

The upgraded Toyota Camry GL and GLX. 69 Sleek

Sedan Debuts:

New BMW 5 Series unveiled.

70 Motoring

News and Launches:

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

FEATURES Furnishings and Fixtures 72-78

A look at the latest decor trends for the coming season.

84

68

Air Conditioning 80-83

Keeping cool when the heat is on.

Fashion 84-88

A first look at spring-summer 17 trends.

Downtime

91 Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 92 Music: Top Tunes

94 Computer Games: The hot games of the month 95 Websites: The coolest sites on the web 96 Apps: Essential apps 97 Movies: New releases

Buffets and Brunches 101-105

The best spreads and brunches around.

67

106

106

Dining

Ambrosia from India:

Puja Tiwari gets a taste of the sub-continent at Lanterns.

108

A New Addition:

111

Gourmet Heaven:

Maki expands its impressive menu.

Industrial chic at The Foundry.

112

A Delight for the Senses:

Sofitel launches The Love of Tuscany fiesta.

113

Street Treats from the Orient: Introducing Wok Station.

114

Make a Fuss of Mum:

Mother’s Day goodies from Cavalli Caffѐ.

114

116 Table

117

Hopping

Showcase

What’s New: Must-have products 118-131 Marketplace: Latest products and services 132 Business Bites 117

Regulars

91 www.bahrainthismonth.com

92

133 WIN WIN 134 Tarotscope 135 AD Index 136 Last Word

March 2017 7

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month March 2017

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

Spring is here which means it’s time for the annual Spring of Culture extravaganza of events ranging from music, with the likes of Arabic singing sensation Omar Kamal and UK pop veterans UB40, to dance and acrobatics from show-stopping performers Traces and Tap Factory.

There’s also a whole host of street theatre, workshops, educational activities and more. And, of course, we have all the details in our extensive happenings section.

This month also sees a visit from international superstar Bryan Adams, an event not to be missed, at Bahrain International Circuit. And Ireland’s own boybander, Brian McFadden, is dropping in to help celebrate St Patrick’s Day. Our interview section includes words of wisdom from Khalid Al Rumaihi, chief executive of the Economic Development Board, who is very positive about the country’s future development and economic diversification, and world-leading fraud buster Mark Van Leewarden, who warns that, as Bahrain’s stature as an economic hub grows, so too does the need for vigilance to protect against criminals.

Chinese Ambassador, HE Qi Zhenhong, tells us about the ever growing bond with his nation and plans for a new, Gulf-first Chinese cultural centre. And we hear from hospitality industry specialists including the new man at the helm of the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, who says he has great plans for the flagship property.

Our features this month include a first look at the latest offerings from the fashion industry’s spring-summer catwalks, some of which you may find surprising. We’ve also delved into the new season’s home trends and taken an in-depth look at regulations affecting the island’s air conditioning suppliers.

In the dining section we concentrate on that favourite Bahrain pastime – buffets and brunches and there’s a special section including information on events for Mother’s Day at the end of the month. Puja Tiwari also gives her verdict on whether a favourite institution is living up to its reputation.

In the motoring section, Charlie Holding puts the new Ford Edge through its paces and Porsche and Subaru introduce new models.

And, as always, we have our regular round-ups of news from the worlds of business, motoring and dining.

In fact, there’s so much happening this month that we struggled to fit it all in.

So whatever you’re up to in March, take us with you for your guide to a great way of life.

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

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

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Corporate Affairs Director 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 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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COVER Cover Picture:

Spring of Culture George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

AIR CONDITIONING | HOME FURNISHING | FORD EDGE TEST DRIVE

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Spring of Culture More than 30 events

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide Interviews

• EDB chief executive Khalid Al Rumaihi • HE Qi Zhenhong, Chinese Ambassador • Fraud Buster Mark Van Leewarden

Nightlife

• Bryan Adams at the BIC • Brian McFadden celebrating St Patrick’s Day

Dining

Buffets and brunches across the island

March 2017 ~ Vol. 21 ~ Issue 3

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Connect with Bahrain This Month: Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

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

Nightlife

March 2017 9

bystander

Gulf Industry Fair

HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister of Bahrain, inaugurated the 2017 Gulf Industry Fair at the Bahrain International Exhibition Convention Centre.

HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Khalid Al Shaer

Mohammed Abbadi, Jaleel Al Ansari, Anwar Abdul Rahman, Yousif Essa & Khalifa Rumaihi

Wendy, Jaap & Raghu

Jubran & Shaikh Khalid

Mohammed Al Kooheji, Ahmed Khalfan, Fahad Faqeeh & Ziad Kaadi

Nawaf, Khalid, Hamed, Rashid & Majid Al Zayani

HE Chayapan Bamrungphong, Ebrahim Al Kooheji, Ronnie, Wendy & Jaap

10 March 2017

Mahmood Al Kooheji & Shaikh Daij

Mohammed, Khalid & Faisal Juma

George, Simi & Ahmed

Sarah & Zerylle

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Shaikh Khalid & Akram Miknas

HE Simon Martin & Christian Syme

Shantini & Ahlam Janahi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, hosted a reception to commemorate the anniversary of the Republic Day of India at The Republic Day HE Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Shaikh Khalid & HE Alok Kumar Sinha

Kishor, Poonam, Preeti & KN Singh

Najat, Prathima, Sandhya & Jennifer

HE Kiyoshi Asako, Shaikha Muna & HE Simon Martin

Khalid Al Zayani & Sana

12 March 2017

Mamta & HE Hatun Demirer

Mamta, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, George & Anne

HE Nor Huda & Nilanthini

Shaikha Muna

Khoga Raj, HE Mohammed Jamal Aloula & HE Vagif Garaev

Malavika & Madhavan Nair

Daisuke & Konstantinos

Shireen & Ameen

Rehab

HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre & HE Abdulrahman Khalil Ahmed Afandi

Shanjida & Mehdi

Dr Hala & Yasmina

Kiran & Dr Rita

HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Perwin

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bystander

Shadia Touqan & George

Nijad & Qays

Vision On Peace

International Peace Institute, Middle East & North Africa (IPI, MENA) hosted an event themed, Turkey’s Vision Towards Peace in the Middle East, featuring guest speaker Turkish President, HE Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & Turkish President, HE Recep Tayyip Erdogan HE Suha Ibrahim Al-Far

Hesham & Mohammed

Nejib Friji & Abdulrahman Jawahari

Dr Khaldoon & Ghassan

Dr Ali

Dr Khalifa Ali Al Fadhel & Dr Abdulrahman Jawahari

Qays & George

Art Exhibition The opening of the art exhibition of Russian Artist Nikas Safronov was held at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. HH Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa & Nikas Safronov

HE Dr A S U Mendis, Mansour Malik & HE Kiyoshi Asako

Amal Al Dosari, Rehab & HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qader

HE Dr Ahmed Nayef Rasheed Al-Dulaimi & HE Ahmed Rachid Khatabi

HE Qi Zhenhong & Ibrahim Asif

International Day

The United Nations Information Centre for the Gulf States (UNIC Manama) and the Palestinian Embassy held an event to commemorate the International Day for Solidarity with the Palestinian People at the UN House Conference Hall.

Eyad Abu, HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qader & HE Dhafer Al Umran

14 March 2017

HE Vagif Garaev

Khogaraj

HE Javed Malik

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

was held in honour of Bjarne G Bidsted, Honorary Consul of Denmark, who was awarded the Order of the Knights Award Reception Aof reception Dannebrog at The Domain Hotel & Spa. Guests with the Honororary Consul of Denmark

Armi & Bjarne G Bidsted

Simon, Daniel

Sherbini & Durand

Ali

Ali & Hanne

Layla, Armi & Sari

Armi, Bjarne G Bidsted, George, Maya Jashanmal & Anne

Corporate Party

Crowne Plaza Bahrain held a corporate party event at its premises.

Joss & Gilles

Jan & Sally

Priya, George, Ebrahim Al Kooheji, Robin, Dr Helena & Anne

16 March 2017

Christy, Florissa, Priya & Ridma

Prakash, Cornelia & Survita

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bystander

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Symmetria Opening

Symmetria Bahrain, worldclass anti-ageing institute, held a grand opening ceremony at its premises in Tubli.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Dimitra & Daniel

Sameh, Maram & Alia

Tonia, Christiana & Christina

Dr Alina & Dr Mohamed

18 March 2017

Eleni & Dr Nikolaos Metaxotos

Haris & Daniel

Annie & Haris

Jameel & Yousif

Nada & Merina

Geraldine, Joy, Shilia & Chris

Saya & Hadeel

Annie, Haris & Konstantinos

Nada, Zainab & Fatema

Prof Haitham & Dr Iman

Eldar & Olga

Lama & Rouba

Randa & Alia

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happenings

THE SPRING OF CULTURE

The Spring of Culture returns with aplomb, featuring an array of entertainment that runs for the next two months.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD

The festival is jointly organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Economic Development Board (EDB) and Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research. It is also held in collaboration with Albareh Art Gallery, Al Riwaq Art Space and La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art. This year, the event is held under the slogan ‘Our Year of Archaeology’.

EDB CEO, Khalid Al-Rumaihi, says: “The festival demonstrates how to connect and develop private sector investments in order to highlight Bahrain’s openness to other world cultures. These efforts are in line with the Economic Development Board’s objective of supporting tourism – an important and growing sector that has significant competitive advantages and tremendous development and job creation potential.

“The continued success of this festival is owed, in a large part, to the generous support of the private sector and partnerships formed between public and civic bodies, all of which work to make

Bahrain a leading platform for outstanding Bahraini talents and prominent figures in the areas of thought, culture and art.”

The organisers have been working tirelessly to bring a sensational selection of events and activities and is a major driving force behind the whole festival. With an emphasis on quality, no expense has been spared to create a programme that offers something for the whole family.

Visitors will enjoy an array of events that cover everything from archaeology to culture and art. A who’s who line-up of Arab and international singers will perform and there’s something for the whole family with performances by professional artists in various venues across the Kingdom. The

EDGAR GROLL

JOURNEY TO THE PLANET OF THE SENSES

When? March 2-4 Event? Street Theatre Venue? Various Join this hypnotising, light circus show from Argentina. With humour and fantasy, Edgar dazzles his audience by spinning balls at dizzying heights and cycling on the tiniest bike in the world. It takes place at 3.30pm at Riffa Palms on the 2nd. It runs at

art and culture exhibitions will open new horizons for visitors into different worlds and perspectives, the EDB says.

The Spring of Culture Festival also features leading Arab and international public figures in a series of talks held in cooperation with the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research. There are opportunities for the public to take part in a large number of educational programmes and workshops.

Updates and latest news about the activities taking place are available on the festival’s official channel @springofculture on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. The full programme details are available on www.springofculture.org

When? March 2-4 Event? Children’s Theatre Venue? Alumni Club 4pm at Amwaj Lagoon and at 6pm at Doohat, Arad on the 3rd. It returns the following day at 4pm at Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Park and 6pm at Amwaj Lagoon. It is suitable for families and is free to attend.

POLE MALLAKHAMB

This family-friendly interactive dance show – set in outer space – is suitable for children aged up to seven years. It features colourful costumes, futuristic electronic music and funky hiphop-style dancing. The audience

will learn about human senses from fun characters including a ‘taste bud alien’.

MAJID AL MUHANDIS AND WALEED AL SHAMI

When? March 9-11 Event? Street Theatre Venue? Various This energetic performance showcases India’s finest and oldest martial arts techniques. The exciting acrobatic show is suitable for the whole family. It takes place at 7.30pm in Adliya’s 338 area and at 5pm the following day at Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Park.

There are two shows on the 11th taking place at Nakheel Centre and Amwaj Lagoon at 5pm and 7.30pm, respectively. It is free to attend.

When? March 10 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay Famed singers Majid Al Muhandis and composer Waleed Al Shami will perform a number of songs from their extensive repertoire spanning old and new albums.

It is suitable for ages eight and above and the show starts at 8.30pm.

For prices and ticket information visit www.springofculture.org 20 March 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE GINGERBREAD MAN

MO ZOWAYED AND MAJAZ

When? March 16-17 Event? Street Theatre Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum

When? March 18 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay

The brave and bold Gingerbread Man escapes the clutches of greedy bakers and runs away in search of a place that’s safe and warm – a place he can call home. From racehorses to cats, his adventures are full of strange encounters and obstacles. This exciting and interactive retelling of the popular traditional tale is fast-paced and promises continuous action, physical theatre, choreography, dance and song. This free show is aimed at children aged three to 10 years but is suitable for the young at heart too. It takes place at 4.30pm on both days.

Folk singer and songwriter Mo Zowayed sets the pace for an exciting evening with his unique blends of American bluegrass with upbeat harmonica and acoustic guitar-driven melodies. Later, Majaz take the night to the next level with their progressive fusion of folk music, which is composed and played by the Bahraini band members. The event starts at 8.30pm and is free to attend.

OMAR KAMAL When? March 17 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay Multilingual singer and composer Omar Kamal’s eclectic taste in music makes him one of the most authentic artists to emerge from the region in years. Omar’s repertoire spans numerous decades and genres and features hits from Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson to Arabic greats such as Mohammed Abdel and Wahab Fairouz. He even performs the latest chart hits. The show is suitable for ages eight and above.

TRACES

UB40 IN BAHRAIN When? March 31 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay

When? March 23-25 Event? Circus Theatre Venue? Bahrain Bay The 7 Fingers’ Traces show is more than just a contemporary circus; it’s a phenomenon in its own right. This fresh, urban and seriously high-energy hit show is set to a fantastic soundtrack ranging from rock ‘n’ roll to blues and hip-hop. The charismatic artists’ lives are revealed as the audience is gradually drawn into their story. By the final, dramatic climax of the show, the crowd will be on the edge of their seats, willing them to pull off the seemingly impossible. The show has drawn critical acclaim around the world and is not to be missed. It begins at 7.30pm and is suitable for ages four and above.

British reggae band UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Virtue will perform their classic hits and new material for the first time in the Kingdom. The show is suitable for ages eight and above.

A TALE OR TWO FOR ALEF When? April 6-8 Event? Children’s Theatre (Arabic) Venue? Alumni Club Young Alef is on an adventure to find the mysterious land of gold. She meets four friends who have had to leave their homes and, together, the children discover wonderful new worlds. The show draws on folk tales from across the region. The performance features puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. This local production is created by the

team that brought you ‘Chaos in the Town’ (Bahrain, Spring of Culture 2016) in an exciting collaboration with Dafa Puppet Theatre (Jordan and Czech Republic).

The show starts at 5pm on the 6th and runs at 10am, 3pm and 5pm on both the 7th and 8th. It is suitable for ages six to 10 years.

For prices and ticket information visit www.springofculture.org www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 21

happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL When? March 1, 5, 8, 12 and 15 Event? Film Screening Venue? Bahrain National Museum

TAP FACTORY When? March 2-3 Event? Dance Show Venue? Cultural Hall

The Bahrain National Museum hosts a Japanese film festival suitable for ages eight and above. The films, which begin at 7pm, cover a wide range of genres and have English subtitles. The event is held in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation. It is free to attend.

DRONE HITS THE GREAT ZIGGURAT OF UR When? March 1, 5, 8, 12 and 15 Event? Exhibition Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space The collaborative multimedia project ‘Drone hits the Great Ziggurat of Ur’ is four interrelated artworks.

The project explores the ancient Mesopotamian Ziggurat, its historical context, religious and existential dimensions and the drone as signifier of the present digital age. It is free to attend and is open from 10am to 10pm.

Tap Factory is a spectacle that incorporates elements of urban percussion, acrobatic and hip-hop. The resulting fusion is a unique show where amazing performances, exciting rhythms and energy join together with a comedic element. It is suitable for ages six and above and is free to attend. The show starts at 7pm.

AL-MURTAHSHA INSTALLATION When? March 4 Event? Installation Venue? Bab Al Bahrain

ITALIAN DESIGN DAY When? March 2 Event? Talk Venue? Bahrain National Museum In collaboration with the Italian Embassy, renowned Italian architect Francesco Librizzi will give a talk entitled ‘Archetype, Prototype, Stereotype’ on his design philosophy. It is accompanied by a pop-up exhibition of his works and a small cocktail reception. It starts at 6.30pm, is suitable for ages 16 and above, and is free to attend.

22 March 2017

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities is organising a special event to install a large-scale model of ‘Al-Murtahsha’, a type of necklace worn by women that is very well known in Bahrain and the wider Gulf. The installation is a subtle nod to the Kingdom’s well known gold industry and is free to attend. Opens at 7pm.

MUSIC IN SOCIETY

When? March 6 Event? Lecture Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Center

Sonia M’barek discusses music in society and its role in enhancing dialogue between people. Sonia has released a number of albums and was also the first woman to head the Carthage International Festival. She previously held the post of Minister of Culture in her native Tunisia. The event starts at 8pm and is free. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE OUT OF TIME

THE PEARL DIVER When? March 10 and April 7 Event? Movie Night Venue? Al-Ghouse House – Muharraq

When? March 7-30 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery This exhibition presents the works of 20 artists from across Europe and the Middle East. It reflects on the idea of stepping outside the constraints of time as an eternal phenomenon. It is open from 10am to 2pm and again from 4pm to 8pm. It is free to attend.

MUSICA SOTTO LE STELLE When? March 9 Event? Concert Venue? La Fontaine Centre Of Contemporary Art

Soprano, Erika Rawles teams up with violist Nora Lee Smith and pianist Mina Iwahashi for an unforgettable evening. The opera celebrates the official opening of the exhibition ‘Two Architects, Two Visions’ presented by Italian architect Maura Franciosa and Emirati architect Saif Al Sayed. The show starts at 8pm.

NOCTURNE FOR PIT ORCHESTRA When? March 9 Event? Concert Venue? Bahrain National Quarry – next to the Tree of Life The Bahrain National Quarry is opened to the public for the very first time. A performance involving the site’s labourers will include a polyphonic orchestra, where vocals and processed sounds navigate between dissonance and harmony. It is suitable for ages 10 and above and is free to attend.

It starts at 8pm.

24 March 2017

This outdoor screening tells the story of natural pearl divers in the GCC and the Kingdom. The film – which is in English – narrates oral history from local divers and merchants alongside the many myths of the sea. It will be followed by a Q&A session. This free event is suitable for ages 18 and above and starts at 7pm.

TWO ARCHITECTS, TWO VISIONS When? March 10-April 9 Event? Exhibition Venue? La Fontaine Centre Of Contemporary Art Italian architect Maura Franciosa and Emirati architect Saif Al Sayed present the exhibition ‘Two Architects, Two Visions’. Maura’s artworks, mostly in whites, expresses her inner energy through using her hands on the canvas, providing the medium between inner emotions and physical reality.

Dhows are the subject of Saif’s artworks, influenced by his grandfather, a Bahraini pearl merchant. The free exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6.30pm

FARIS YOUWAKIM When? March 13 Event? Poetry Reading Venue? House Of Poetry- Ebrahim Al Arrayed A night of poetry from Faris Youwakim – a Lebanese playwright, broadcaster and editor.

His works include theatrical plays, TV dramas and cinematic films. The event starts at 8pm and is free to attend. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

SPRING OF CULTURE CHELSEY GREEN AND THE GREEN PROJECT ENSEMBLE When? March 17 Event? Concert Venue? Cultural Hall

The group has appeared across the world and performs various genres, including jazz, R&B, pop, soul, funk, alternative, hip-hop and more. The members fuse a traditional, classical technique with popular songs and enticing original pieces. The event starts at 8pm and is free to attend.

THE SELFLESS HOLY GROUND When? March 19-April 13 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Art Centre The exhibition features interactive installations by artist Othman Khunji, created through the use and application of cutting-edge technology, including Arduino sensors/actuators, 3D printing, laser cutting and water jet engraving. The collection explains and portrays the contrast between the traditional altruistic symbol that Mecca has always represented for Muslims, and the contemporary egocentric aura that has become synonymous with one’s journey to the holiest of places. It is open from 8am to 8pm and is free to attend.

THE HOPE OF AL-HALLAJ When? March 20 Event? Concert Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Center Bachar Razkan presents an evening of songs inspired by the Sufi heritage, most notably the legacy of Al-Hallaj.

His style combines poetry and music that has elements of both Eastern and Western traditions. It starts at 8pm and is free to attend.

26 March 2017

OUR PAST MATTERS When? March 22 Event? Pop-Up Exhibitions Venue? Bahrain National Museum

PEARLING PATH WALKATHON

When? March 25 Event? Walkathon Venue? Meet at Al-Hala Club

A number of pop-up displays will be regularly featured in the foyer of the museum, presenting the latest archaeological excavation results and findings and highlighting the significance of Bahrain’s archaeological heritage.

The walk starts from Al-Ghous Corniche in the south and goes to the Seyadi House in the north – covering a distance of 6.5 km. Along the way, information on each property of the Pearling Path will be available highlighting the history and story of the building and its relation to the pearling narrative. It is open to ages 18 and above and starts at 8.30am.

DR PIERRE LOMBARD

THE STATUES OF TYLOS

When? March 22 Event? Lecture Venue? Bahrain National Museum

Dr Pierre Lombard will highlight the excavations carried out in the pre-Islamic periods at the Bahrain Fort, Hillat Al-Abd Al-Saleh and Al-Malkiya. The talk begins at 6.30pm and is free to attend.

HONEY, I SHRUNK THE KIDS When? March 23 Event? Movie Night Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum This popular movie will be screened in the outdoor area of the Bahrain Fort Site Museum at 7pm and is suitable for ages 13 and above. The event is free to attend.

When? March 28 Event? Lecture Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum Dr Redha Mearaj will talk about his PhD thesis entitled ‘The Statues of Tylos: A Taxonomic and Comparative Study’. The lecture will be conducted in Arabic and is suitable for ages 18 and above. It starts at 7pm and is free to attend.

JAZZ AND BLUE – DANA GILLESPIE

When? March 31 Event? Concert Venue? La Fontaine Centre Of Contemporary Art

Enjoy an intimate evening with multi-award-winning singer Dana Gillespie, accompanied by pianist, Joachim Palden. The combination of Dana’s heart-pounding and soulful jazz renditions with Joachim’s explosive accompaniment and anecdotal stories from his glittering career make this an evening not to be missed. The show starts at 9pm.

For prices and tickets information, visit www.springofculture.org www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

ARABIAN PRO SERIES When? Ongoing-March 3 Event? Drag Racing Championship Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

SPRING IN BLOOM When? Ongoing-March 21 Event? Various Venue? Moda Mall

When? Ongoing-March 3 Event? Drag Racing Championship Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call 17 450-000.

When? Ongoing-March 21 Event? Various Spring Activities Venue? Moda Mall E Call 13 323-332.

When? Ongoing-March 31 Event? Self Help Venue? TBA E Call 34 410-017 or email innerxcellence@ gmail.com

The final round of the 2016/2017 Bahrain Drag Racing Championship-Arabian Pro Series includes a special never-before-seen Jet Funny Car Show taking place on the sidelines.

The World Record-breaking vehicle develops thrust in the jet engine equivalent to more than 10,000bhp!

Martin Hill, owner and pilot of the Jet Funny Car, says: “We are honoured to have been invited to attend these events and will look forward to entertaining the crowds at Bahrain International Circuit.”

The Bahrain Drag Racing Championship is the biggest drag racing series in the Gulf, attracting competitors from all over the region and beyond.

Call 17 450-000 for tickets and further information.

REDUCE STRESS AND STOP SMOKING

The mall is decorated with touches of spring and features a garden brimming with flowers in the Fashion Court, a floral swing and a fountain for you to capture memorable moments. It will host live musical performances every weekend.

Shoppers who spend BD20 or more are entered into a raffle. The grand prize is a seven-day trip to the French Riviera and five-star accommodation for two.

There are weekly opportunities to win spa and wellness packages or dining vouchers at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, through raffle draws on March 1, 8 and 15.

OUTDOOR EVENT When? Ongoing- April 15 Event? Various Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space

When? Ongoing-March 31 Event? Self Help Venue? TBA

When? Ongoing-April 15 Event? Various Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E Call 17 700-237.

When? March 1, 2 and 4 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Words Bookstore Cafe E Visit Instagram @ ghaliasart.

When? March 1, 5, 8, 12 and 15 Event? Japanese Film Festival Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 1-23 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E Call 17 717-441.

When? March 2 Event? Italian Design Day Talk Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 2-3 Event? Dance Show Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 2-4 Event? Street Theatre Venue? Various E Visit www. springofculture.org

This is an advanced stress reduction programme for busy professionals, which organisers say will give you the skills to reduce stress with 10 seconds. There are also modules to help you quit smoking and improve employees’ productivity.

Contact DS Dev on 34 410-017, email innerxcellence@gmail.com 28 March 2017

Introducing 338², a platform highlighting the creative scenes in Bahrain.

338² will be home to a market space bustling with local design and food entrepreneurs, showcasing a wide range of talent. Look forward to weekends packed with an exciting programme of competitions, live music and unique pop-up dining opportunities. A weekend a celebration of culinary art, workshops and talks promoting a healthy and holistic approach to food will run throughout.

Call 17 700-237.

When? March 2-4 Event? Children’s Theatre Venue? Alumni Club E Visit www. springofculture.org When? March 4 Event? Al-Murtahsha Installation Venue? Bab Al Bahrain E Call 39 900-630.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Scene One: A chance encounter on Abbey Road, London Starring: Nathalie Emmanuel #aloveaairwith...

Bahrain | UAE | Kuwait | Qatar | KSA

happenings

TWELFTH NIGHT ON STAGE When? March 8-9 Event? Play Venue? Cultural Hall Entertainment+ is back with another riveting rendition of a Shakespearean classic.

This fresh adaptation of Twelfth Night – straight from London’s West End – is presented

by Olivier Award-winning producer Paul TaylorMills and features a talented cast of nine.

The timeless tale is a whirlwind of mistaken

30 March 2017

identity and unrequited love. The play itself is packed with humour to entertain adults and modern references to help youngsters understand the plot. “You can expect to understand the storyline in a more creative and exciting form, not just through the great literature, but through comedy and music,” a spokesperson says.

Viola has been shipwrecked in a violent storm off the coast of Illyria; in the process she has lost her twin brother, Sebastian. She

disguises herself as a boy and assumes the name Cesario for protection. Thus disguised, Viola becomes a page in the service of Orsino, the Duke.

It seems that Orsino is having little luck courting Olivia – who is in mourning for the deaths of her father and brother – so he sends Viola to try and win her over.

Viola realises to her dismay that Olivia has fallen for Cesario rather than Duke Orsino, which is further complicated by the fact that Viola has had stirrings herself for Orsino.

Where music is the food of love, nobody is quite what they seem and anything proves to be possible.

Some show times have already been sold out, but there are still seats for the shows at 11.30am on March 8 and 6.30pm on March 9.

Tickets are on sale at Alosra supermarkets.

There are special packages for group bookings and early-bird school offers are still available.

Call 39 616-858.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Introducing the totally new, completely redesigned 2017 Impreza. With reliability and safety you can count on and performance to get excited about. Now with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, it’s the foundation for your active life.

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happenings

GINGHAM IN BLUE

MIDDLE EAST OIL SHOW

When? March 1, 2 and 4 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Words Bookstore Cafe

When? March 7-9 Event? Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

When? March 6 Event? Music in Society Lecture Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Center For Culture & Research E Call 17 322-549.

This event is one of the most established platforms for oil and gas products and services in the Middle East, attracting NOCs, IOCs and major operating companies.

Explore new technologies, business opportunities and partnerships at the MEOS 2017 exhibition, via a showcase featuring specialised businesses and some of the oil and gas industry’s largest corporations.

Call 17 558-800.

When? March 7-9 Event? Middle East Oil Show Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 17 558-800.

Artist Ghalia Abdul Jawad’s work will be on display from 10am to 6pm. “I have always been interested in drawing faces and people. In this series of paintings I have tried to incorporate both my love of texture and textiles combined with my drawings and paintings,” she says. The gingham fabric is present and significant in all the paintings of this collection.”

Visit Instagram @ghaliasart

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Magician Joshua Jay will be performing a special up close magic show in the Kingdom. This will be his second visit to Bahrain and he couldn’t be more excited. “I absolutely fell in love. The culture, the people, my hosts – everything was so lovely and Bahraini breakfast, wow,” he says. “This is my second time performing here, so our producers (Nabeel Bera and Ali Boulala), worked with us on a more intimate, close-up show for audiences. I’m very excited because people who came last time and saw me on a big stage will now be able to practically touch the magic.”

The show will feature three performance rooms and three magicians, under one roof. Doors open at 7.30pm, entry costs BD20 and includes a welcome drink and canapes.

Call 33 994-560 or Instagram @onewithmagic.

When? March 10 Event? Open Track Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Open Track offers a thrilling trackside experience for all drivers and riders alike. All cars need to be in roadworthy condition to take part, with no leaks or body damage. Your car’s suitability will be assessed by officials at the event. BIC’s new, stateof-the-art floodlighting system means that open track events can be held both during the day and at night.

For details, email info@bic.com.bh 32 March 2017

When? March 8-10 Event? Jewellery Exhibition Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Call 17 690-790.

When? March 9 Event? Musica Sotto Le Stelle Concert Venue? La Fontaine Centre Of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123.

When? March 10 Event? Magic Show Venue? Mezzaluna in Adliya

READY, STEADY, RACE!

When? March 7-30 Event? Art Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery E Call 17 717-707.

THE DOGFATHER’S CAR BOOT SALE When? March 10 Event? Car Boot Sale Venue? The Bahrain Rugby Football Club It’s your chance to sell some of your own treasures and shop for others for only BD6 per car. Set up begins at 8am and the event runs from 9am to midday. No reservations are necessary but sellers should bring their own tables.

Call 17 695-809.

When? March 9 Event? Twelfth Night Play Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 39 616-858.

When? March 9 and April 6 Event? Education Venue? Oasis Training Center E Call 17 330-823 or email info@oasistrainingbh.com When? March 9 Event? Nocturne for Pit Orchestra Concert Venue? Bahrain National Quarry – next to the Tree of Life E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 9-11 Event? Street Theatre Pole Mallakhamb Venue? Various E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 10 Event? Majid Al Muhandis and Waleed Al Shami Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 10 Event? Potjiekos Competition Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809.

When? March 10 Event? Open Track Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E For details, email info@bic. com.bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Beauty

happenings

FLEA MARKET FUN

AN ELECTRIFYING DOUBLEHEADER

When? March 11 Event? Flea Market Venue? Saar (visit Facebook.com/rivers)

When? March 16 Event? Drag and Drift Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

This family-friendly event truly has something for everyone. There will be a number of food tables, crafts, pallet furniture and health products on sale. Entertainment will be provided by a number of local bands playing acoustic covers of popular songs. There will also be kids zone with a plethora of fun activities for youngsters.

Call Linette on 33 080-094 for directions.

CHERRY TREE TROT RETURNS When? March 11 Event? Cherry Tree Trot Venue? Bahrain International Circuit The CTT is a fun day out, for physically and mentally challenged Bahrainis, sponsored by the American Women’s Association. It is one of the oldest and largest charity events in Bahrain. The CTT is organised to raise money for 35 Bahraini charities the AWA supports.

The primary event is a 2km race for the mentally and physically challenged children and adults; they will be supported by students from the leading private schools and adult volunteers. There will also be a 2km, 3km, 5km and 8km run for able-bodied participants. A 3km walkathon is for those who like to take things a little easier, i.e. families with pushchairs.

Call 38 884-924 or email info@awabahrain.org

Choose between two of the most popular and exciting forms of motorsport today – drag racing and drifting – and then show off your skills. Can’t decide? Then compete in both. This exciting double-header, sponsored by Ebrahim K Kanoo and powered by Motor City, is open to the public. Drivers take part in their own car or on their motorbike, where they can push the limits! It starts at 6pm and entry to the venue is free.

Call 17 450-000.

PICNIC IN THE PARK When? March 17 Event? Picnic Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club The club is hosting a picnic in the park at its premises from noon.

Guests are invited to bring their own picnic or, alternatively, there will be a number of stalls selling food at the event. There will be music and live entertainment.

Call 17 695-809.

PHOTOGRAPHS ON DISPLAY When? March 15, 16 and 18 Event? Photography Exhibition with Kevin Andrews Venue? Words BookstoreCafé Kevin Andrews, an American photographer living in Bahrain, focuses primarily on landscape and street photography, providing unique perspectives to interesting places throughout the Middle East. While the majority of his recent work documents life in the Gulf, he has travelled extensively throughout Europe and America. His work reflects many different aspects of photography, from long-exposure landscapes to back-alley portraits. The exhibition opens at 7pm on the 15th and continues on the 16th and 18th from 10am to 6pm.

Call 17 690-790.

34 March 2017

When? March 10 Event? The Dogfather›s Car Boot Sale Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809.

When? March 10 Event? Magic Show Venue? Mezzaluna in Adliya E Call 33 994-560 or Instagram @onewithmagic When? March 10 and April 7 Event? Movie Night Venue? Al-Ghouse House – Muharraq E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 10-April 9 Event? Art Exhibition - Two Architects Venue? La Fontaine Centre Of Contemporary Art E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 11 Event? Flea Market Venue? Saar (visit Facebook.com/ rivers) E Call Linette on 33 080-094.

When? March 11 Event? Cherry Tree Trot Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call 38 884-924 or email info@awabahrain.org.

When? March 13 Event? Poetry Reading Venue? House Of Poetry- Ebrahim Al Arrayed E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 15, 16 and 18 Event? Photography Exhibition with Kevin Andrews Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Call 17 690-790.

When? March 16 Event? St Patrick’s Day Ball Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel This popular annual event celebrates all things Irish – from food and beverages to live music and other entertainment.

E Visit www.facebook.com/ bahrainirish When? March 16 Event? Drag and Drift Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Call 17 450-000.

When? March 16-17 Event? Street Theatre – Gingerbread Man Venue? Bahrain Fort Site Museum E Visit www.springofculture.org

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

BATELCO MOTOR SHOW

SPRING BEACH YOGA

When? March 17 Event? Motor Show Venue? Batelco’s Hamala Headquarters

When? March 17 Event? Beach Yoga Venue? Nurana Island The Batelco Motor Show 2017 will build on the success of previous years and feature various events targeting motorsport fans and the general public, including families.

There will be competitions for the best vehicles, children’s entertainment, a DJ and a number of stalls for sponsors. It opens at 9am and entry is free.

Visit www.batelco.com

BSPCA DOG WALK When? March 17 Event? Charity fundraiser Venue? Animal Welfare Centre Animal lovers from across the Kingdom can support the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) by taking part in the annual charity dog walk. The event, which takes place at the organisation’s premises in Askar, begins at

When? March 17 Event? Omar Kamal Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www.springofculture.org

Tranquila Yoga Bahrain invites you to celebrate the start of spring at Nurana Island with a free hour of beach yoga, suitable for all levels. Bring a yoga mat or large towel, water and wear comfy clothing. It starts at 8am.

10.30am with a 2km walk for youngsters and 4km for older kids and adults. It costs BD10 to participate and register your dog.

If you don’t have a dog, the shelter will reserve one for you.

There will be prizes for the most sponsorship money raised.

All funds go towards the upkeep of the AWC and the animals, as well as to the catch, neuter, release programme.

Call 17 591-231.

HOLI MOLY!

36 March 2017

When? March 17 Event? Picnic Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809.

When? March 17 Event? Motor Show Venue? Batelco’s Hamala Headquarters E Visit www.batelco.com When? March 17 Event? BSPCA Dog Walk Venue? Animal Welfare Centre (AWC) E Call 17 591-231.

When? March 17 Event? Holi Celebration Venue? The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark E Call 36787748, 36787747 or 36787746.

When? March 18 Event? Mo Zowayed and Majaz Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 19-April 13 Event? The Selfless Holy Ground Art Exhibition Venue? Art Centre E Visit www.springofculture.org

When? March 17 Event? Holi Celebration Venue? The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark Holi, the festival of colours, is back with a bang and promises to be bigger and better than ever.

This spectacular celebration, which marks the start of spring, is best known for its use of colourful powders and vibrant atmosphere.

Sphere Advertising and Events has organised a special event to mark the occasion – Balam Pichkari: Season 2 – taking place from 10am till 6pm at The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark.

Last year’s event was a rousing success with more than 3,500 participants and, this year, the organisers hope to attract even more visitors with an exciting array of entertainment, activities and games.

The programme includes special performances by three well-known local DJs and an international DJ from Bollywood, as well as special Bhangra dances and traditional Dhol performances. Besides the live entertainment there will be food stalls, games and colour stalls.

“The colour festival of Holi is a great addition to our

When? March 17 Event? Chelsey Green and The Green Project Ensemble Concert Venue? Cultural Hall E Visit www.springofculture.org

When? March 20 Event? The Hope Of Al-Hallaj Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Center E Call 17 322-549.

annual events,” says Pooja Singh co-founder of Sphere Advertising and Events. “We welcome guests from different communities to celebrate with us and enjoy the amazing experience.”

The organisers have also arranged transportation, free of charge, for pick-ups and drop offs but bookings must be made in advance and the last date to register is March 15.

A limited number of special tickets, priced at BD6, include access to the waterpark and its newest rides along with splashing colours and non-stop entertainment.Tickets are also available to purchase at The Urban Dhaba restaurant in Adliya (behind BBK).

For more details call 36 787-748, 36 787-747 or 36 787-746.

When? March 21 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts E Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net When? March 21-23 Event? Education Expo Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre E Call 36 086-266 or email edutex.bahrain@gmail.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

EDUCATION & TRAINING INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION The exhibition aims to provide the best educational opportunities for all students learning and continued education needs. It brings thousands of potential students face to face with best colleges, universities and institutions locally and internationally. It is open from 10am to 10pm and is free to attend.

Call 36 086-266 or email edutex.bahrain@ gmail.com

FILM SCREENING When? March 21 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Arts

When? March 22 Event? Pop-Up Exhibitions Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 39 900-630.

Enjoy Mozart’s grandest and most ambitious opera with La Fontaine’s film screening of Idomeneo, an adaptation that has drawn critical acclaim globally. The movie begins at 7pm and the restaurant starts serving from 6.30pm. Priced at BD10+, the ticket’s value can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening.

Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net

When? March 22 Event? Dr Pierre Lombard Lecture Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 39 900-630.

POSITIVE PARENTING WORKSHOP: HARMONY AT HOME When? March 22 Event? Workshop Venue? Words BookstoreCafé This workshop looks deeper into the energetic relationship between the parent and the child. Participants we will learn how to use this connection to deal with inappropriate behaviours effectively and motivate their child to become more responsible, mature and independent. This will include coverage of challenging behaviours like tantrums. The workshop starts at 10am and costs BD20, payable in advance.

Visit www.innerconnectionconsulting.com

When? March 22-25 Event? Play Venue? British Club

38 March 2017

When? March 22-25 Event? Play – The Seafarer Venue? British Club E Call 17 728-245.

When? March 23 Event? Movie Night Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 23-25 Event? Circus Theatre Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 23-25 Event? Circus Theatre Venue? Bahrain Bay Headline: Traces E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 25 Event? Walkathon Venue? Al-Hala Club E Call 39 900-630.

When? March 26-30 Event? Art Sale Venue? Harbour Gate Mall in the Bahrain Financial Harbour E Call 38 338-064.

THE SEAFARER

Manama Theatre Club (drama section of the British Club) will be performing acclaimed Irish playwright Connor McPherson’s ‘The Seafarer’ – a dark comedy, a supernatural ghost story and a modern-day story of guilt and the demon drink.

It is Christmas Eve, and Sharky, erstwhile fisherman/ van driver/chauffeur, gathers with friends at the dingy flat he shares with his cantankerous blind brother to drink booze and play cards. As the brothers drink Christmas Eve into Christmas Day with friends old (Ivan and Nicky) and new (the dapper and sinister Mr Lockhart), Sharky is reminded of a bargain he made in prison – and finds himself playing a game of poker with

When? March 22 Event? Positive Parenting Workshop Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Visit www. innerconnectionconsulting.com

When? March 27 Event? Ivana Mrchilaan Lecture Venue? Abdullah Al-Zayed For Bahraini Press Heritage E Visit www.springofculture.org When? March 27 Event? Exhibition Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space E Call 17 700-237.

his soul set as the highest possible stake.

Tickets are on sale at BD7.5 from the British Club and Alosra with ‘Just The Seafarer’ theatre seating nights on Wednesday 22nd and Saturday 25th and a ‘Seafarer and Supper’ option where food can be purchased on Thursday 23 and Friday 24 March.

When? March 28 Event? The Statues of Tylos Lecture Venue? Qal’at Al Bahrain Site Museum E Call 39 900-630.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

ORIGINAL ARTWORK

‘THE VILLAGE IN THE CITY’, WAFAA AL GHATAM

When? March 26-30 Event? Art Sale Venue? Harbour Gate Mall in the Bahrain Financial Harbour

When? March 27 Event? Exhibition Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space

Sarah Clarke will be selling the original artwork and limited edition prints from Where’s Baloo? with proceeds going to RIA. Baloo will be there each morning for a couple of hours.

Call 38 338-064.

PALM BEACH OPENING PARTY!

This project aims to investigate how far spatial processes, relating the embedding pattern of the villages to the surrounding urban areas, can throw light on the different pathways of social development of the absorbed village configurations. The research used the most advance approach in Architecture Analysis, by using Space Syntax methodology and theory through the PhD thesis of professor Wafa Al Ghatam and in collaboration with her students.

Call 17 700-237.

When? March 31 Event? Party Venue? Palm Beach, Amwaj The beach has been revamped with a new set up, including bars, a stage, a VIP area and more. The entertainment begins at 3pm with sets from DJ VJMP3, Nora En Pure, DJ Cossta, Manuel Baccano and DJ Aaron Wolf. VIP tables, costing BD150, are available by special request. Tickets cost BD10 in advance and BD15 on the door. Entry is free for airline staff.

Call 32 223-323 or 39 712-012.

When? March 31 Event? Dana Gillespie Concert Venue? La Fontaine Centre Of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123.

When? March 29-April 1 Event? Pop Up Shop – Yalla Habibi 2017 Collection Venue? Words BookstoreCafé E Call 17 690-790.

When? March 31 Event? UB40 Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay E Visit www.springofculture.org

When? March 31 Event? Rotary Raft Race Venue? Al Bander Resort

40 March 2017

When? March 31 Event? UB40 Concert Venue? Bahrain Bay Headline: UB40 in Bahrain E Visit www.springofculture.org

When? March 31 Event? Palm Beach Opening Party Venue? Palm Beach, Amwaj E Call 32 223-323 or 39 712-012.

RAFT RACE ACTION

It’s time to take to the water for the Rotary Club of Sulmaniya’s major annual fundraiser, the 38th Rotary Raft Race.

Over the years the event has enjoyed great success, attracting teams and visitors from major national and international companies represented in Bahrain, as well as prominent families and clubs.

The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya has helped numerous charities in the Kingdom over the past 45 years through the support of sponsors, raising more than BD2 million, which has been used to support a variety of organisations.

The theme of this year’s event will be fighting cancer, with benefitting charities still to be decided. A spokesman says: “Every year, more

When? March 29 Event? Mark van Leewarden, Fraud Lecture Venue? Capital Club Mark van Leewarden, considered one of the world’s top legal criminal fraud fighting minds, will give a talk about combatting financial crime and fraud. The event starts at 6.30pm and costs BD10 for non-members.

E Call 17 100-100.

than 400 Bahrainis are diagnosed with cancer, with breast and lung cancers leading the chart representing more than 30 per cent of total cases reported. According to updated figures released by the Health Ministry, an average of 86.3 cases are diagnosed every year for every 100,000 Bahraini men, compared with an average of 97.5 for women. Genetic history, lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, diet and lack of physical activity, certain types of infections, and environmental exposure to different types of chemicals and radiation are often cited

as the main causes of cancer. These facts are reason enough for us to take the initiative in raising awareness of fighting cancer to the public and to encourage the community in adopting a healthy lifestyle.”

If you’d like to take part, teams require eight people and entry costs BD375. It’s a great fun day with a lively atmosphere, entertainment and good food.

For team participation call Yasser 39 687-505 or Sebahat 39 605-349.

For sponsorship opportunities call Hassan 39 009-933 or Janan 39 636-399. www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdark happenings

SINGER TURNS DJ When? March 17 Event? Brian McFadden live in Bahrain Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa

When? March 3 Event? UNK Live Venue? Ibrida

The Irish singer-songwriter will be in Bahrain as part of the St Patrick’s Day celebrations. He will perform a twohour DJ set, and Boyzone’s Keith Duffy is joining him in the festivities.

Popular for being one of the original members of the famous Westlife boy band, Brian pursued a solo career in 2004 and came out with an international chart-topper Real to Me. Throughout the years, Brian continued to make songs and albums which made an impact on many people’s lives. Doors open from 9pm onwards. Tickets

GOING GREEN When? March 17 Event? St Patricks Day celebration Venue? JJ’s Irish Bar & Restaurant

What do you get when you join a leprechaun, a pub, luck and an Irish band? The answer is a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Since the holiday falls on a Friday, larger and more festive celebrations will almost make you feel you are at a parade on the Emerald Isle. The day starts with the authentic Irish breakfast. DJ Tripz will be on the decks from 5pm followed by house band Toxic and then, later in the evening, the main attraction is Irish band, The Gentlemen Bar Stewards.

Call 39 329-083

The Blacklist presents DJ and rapper UNK, known for hit songs 2 step and Walk It Out. Tickets BD10 in advance and BD15 on the door.

Ladies free.

E Call 38 897-378.

are priced at BD 10 pre-sale and BD15 at the door.

Ladies enter for free.

Call 36 897-378

PRETTY IN WHITE When? March 30 Event? FashionTV white party Venue? Bushido Restaurant and Lounge Having recently signed a deal to partner exclusively with Bushido to host events, broadcasting and lifestyle giant FashionTV (FTV) is coming back to the island with a bang to host the second edition of the White Party. It will feature top models and entertainers and the crème de la crème of the fashion scene in Europe coupled with a glamorous setup. The lineup includes the Secret Garden Show girls, Twins Project DJs from Russia, FTV ambassador Marina Perdenenko, and a saxophonist. Dress in white and party the night away. Doors open at 9pm.

Call 17 583-555

READY TO ROCK! When? March 13 Event? Bryan Adams Live in Bahrain Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) Canadian multi-platinum rocker, Bryan Adams, is set to thrill the crowd with a scintillating performance as part of his world tour promoting his latest album Get Up. He has sold over 100 million records during his career and is best known for hits like Summer of 69, Everything I do and Run to you. Ticket prices start at BD30 for general admission and BD95 for VIP, available at Alosra Supermarkets and BMMI Retail Store.

Visit: www.bryanadams.me 42 March 2017

When? March 7 Event? Battle of the bands Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa E Call 17 111-999 When? March 9 Event? Brazilian Beach Carnival Venue? Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Indulge in this Latin carnival with entertainers flying in from London for this spectacular evening. Tickets are for BD25 for members, BD35 for non-members.

E Call 17 586-499

When? March 9 Event? Liv Club Opening Venue? M Hotel, Juffair E Call 66 600-025 When? March 9 Event? Urban Delight Venue? Kenza Lounge GroundRulez host a night of hip-hop, R&B, reggae and Afrobeats. Free limited invitations via Facebook.

E Call 38 888-019/66 331-141.

When? March 13 Event? Bryan Adams live in Bahrain Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) E Visit: www.bryanadams.me When? March 17 Event? Brian McFadden live in Bahrain Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa E Call 36 897-378 When? March 17 Event? St Patricks Day celebration Venue? JJ’s Irish Bar & Restaurant E Call 39 329-083 When? March 30 Event? Two ex-Akcent live concert Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa The pop duo is set to thrill with an electrifying performance. Tickets cost BD10 for men and are free for ladies.

E Call 36 897-378

When? March 30 Event? FashionTV white party Venue? Bushido Restaurant and Lounge E Call 17 583-555 www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Sports Federations Ceremony The Golden Tulip Hotel hosted a ceremony in honour of sports federations at its premises in Manama.

Dignitaries & guests at the event

Chef Remy, Dimple, Abdulrahim, Abbas & George

Saleh Bin Hindi

HE Hisham Al Jawder

Rotary Meeting

Salha, Fay & Fatima

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Khamis Al Mukla

Emnet & Ketan

Shaikh Sakhar Al Khalifa

Aqeel

The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held a general meeting with guest speakers Robin Tham and Dr Helena Tham on the topic, Wellness with Universal Energy, at The Golden Tulip Hotel.

Robin Tham, Ameera & Dr Helena Tham

Ashraf & Nijed

Tess & Mohammed

Adnan Fakhro

Malik, Ameera & George

Mustafa Said & Dr Paul

Mazen Al Umran, Lamees & Kareemi

Khalid & Seema

March 2017 43

INTERVIEWS

FINGER ON THE PULSE APPLE SHARMA The Economic Development Board (EDB) chief executive Khalid Al Rumaihi gives an in-depth view of the country’s economic situation and where it’s headed.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 46 A COOPERATIVE FRIENDSHIP 54 AMCHAM BAHRAIN HOSTS REGIONAL FORUM

MENA region in ICT development with particular strengths in ICT access and usage; 94.8 per cent of households are equipped with a computer and 93 per cent of individuals use the Internet.

Additionally, Bahrain also made remarkable progress in the 2014 UN E-Government Survey taking the top place in five geographic regions, and advancing from 36th to 18th position globally in the EGovernment Development Index.

The key focus sectors include financial services, in which Bahrain has over four decades of experience, manufacturing and logistics, tourism and ICT, with a particular emphasis on start-ups.

The oil price has had a global impact. What effect has it had on Bahrain’s economy?

It is unsurprising that much attention has been paid to the short-term impact of lower oil prices. The challenges the region is facing are substantial – both in terms of fiscal adjustment and the need for wider economic diversification. Regional growth has clearly slowed and this will have an impact on the near-term returns on any investment.

That said, Bahrain’s underlying growth fundamentals have remained unchanged, despite a challenging macroeconomic environment. A young, dynamic and welleducated workforce that is employed across both the public and private sectors helps to ensure that productivity levels in the Kingdom are high. Equally, our position as the natural gateway to the rest of the Gulf is hard to beat when it comes to making a compelling case for investors.

What have been the most recent achievements of the EDB towards fulfilling the Economic Vision 2030?

I think we have achieved a great deal, but there is much more that can be and needs to be done. Bahrain was recently named by the World Bank in its 2017 Doing Business Report as one of 10 countries improving the most globally across three or more areas – a great achievement. It also ranked second overall in the MENA region.

The Kingdom is ranked the highest in the

Which economic sectors have been most affected – which have excelled and why?

Bahrain has one of the most diversified and resilient economies, with great flexibility to deal with economic downturns both within the region and in the wider global market. This is largely supported by extensive economic reforms and diversification efforts; today, the oil industry accounts for less than 20 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), down from 44 per cent in 2000. Non-oil sectors continue to grow, with a registered increase of 3.9 per cent

Khalid Al Rumaihi

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ell us a little about yourself – what is your background, how long have you been with the EDB? My background is predominantly in financial services; before I joined the EDB, in March 2015, I was the managing director at Investcorp for over 10 years. I also served for nine years at J.P. Morgan as head of the company’s private client group in the Gulf.

In my capacity as the EDB’s chief executive, I lead our efforts to attract investment into Bahrain with the aim of supporting local industries and businesses and creating highquality jobs for Bahrainis. The EDB focuses on targeting economic sectors in which the Kingdom offers significant advantages, like its skilled bilingual local workforce, track record, respected regulation and access to the region.

44 March 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Bahrain’s underlying growth fundamentals have remained unchanged, despite a challenging macroeconomic environment

during the third quarter of 2016. In fact, the strong Q3 national accounts data makes it highly likely that 2016 as a whole will match 2015 in terms of economic growth.

Unemployment remains as low as 3.1 per cent.

Financial services remains one of the largest contributors to the Kingdom’s GDP, at just under 20 per cent in 2015. Similarly, manufacturing, transport and logistics is a high performing sector, supported by large-scale flagship infrastructure projects such as the modernisation of the Bahrain International Airport.

We are also rapidly developing into a regional hub for start-ups, which are thriving despite the challenging global economic environment. As a compact market but with a young, dynamic and highly skilled local population, Bahrain offers a perfect testing ground for new products, services and technologies, and the government has worked hard to create a supportive environment that will allow start-ups to flourish.

A survey by Ernst & Young found that 70 per cent of young Bahrainis were interested in the idea of starting their own business – twice as many as anywhere else in the Gulf. This entrepreneurial drive and determination is part of what makes Bahrain such an exciting place to be for SMEs. What is the current GDP of Bahrain and what are the projections for this year?

Bahrain’s economy has maintained steady growth; the current GDP is USD31 billion as of 2015, with a real growth rate of 2.9 per cent. We anticipate a growth of 3.4 per cent during 2016.

What positive steps can Bahrain take to build a sustainable economy?

Looking ahead, Bahrain is investing over USD32 billion in key infrastructure projects over the coming years, across a range of sectors including transport, housing, manufacturing, energy, healthcare and education – a figure comparable to the Kingdom’s GDP. This will have significant positive impact for further growth opportunities in our economy. www.bahrainthismonth.com

”

But it is not just the large construction projects that we have to get right. Perhaps more important is making the laws and regulations that are going to encourage investment and that are going to protect investor rights. We need to enact the policies and procedures that are going to remove the red tape and improve the business environment. The rewards, in terms of economic growth, will be huge.

There was a recent Bahrain business delegation roadshow to China and Hong Kong.

What was the outcome of the visit and are there any such visits planned for other countries?

Boosting ties with China is of vital importance to the Kingdom’s economy, and Bahrain is a strong supporter of China’s ‘One Belt, One Road’ policy to renew trade collaboration between China and the Middle East.

During the roadshow last November we signed a number of agreements to strengthen economic and business ties. These include: • An agreement with Invest Shenzhen, a governmental body, to develop investment practices and policies to further strengthen trade between China and Bahrain • An agreement with Shenzhen Capital Group Co. Ltd., a venture capital company, to help provide more entrepreneurship opportunities for businesses in China and Bahrain • An agreement with BYD Auto Industry Company Limited, a Chinese company which specialises in four industries – (IT, automobile, new energy and rail transit) – and is looking to establish a regional manufacturing hub in Bahrain • Chinamex Bahrain and China Handicraft Art Work Committee signed an agreement to hold a Chinese cultural products exhibition at Bahrain’s Dragon City in December 2017 During 2017, we will build on the success of the previous few years. Our international offices, which are based in target markets, continue to promote Bahrain as an investment destination to potential stakeholders at

international events. As well as China and Hong Kong, we look to India, Malaysia and Singapore, in addition to select European markets such as Turkey, the UK and Germany.

We believe Bahrain has much to offer, and we want to get the message out there as loudly as possible.

There was a new law introduced recently to support partnerships in Bahrain (Limited Investment Partnership Law). Could you briefly explain what this entails and what are its benefits?

This new law will allow partnerships to be regarded as a legal personality in place of companies. Activities encompassed within the law include: collective and private investment undertakings, securitisation [the process through which a number of assets are pooled and then repackaged into new interestbearing securities] and insurance captives [a licensed insurance company that is owned by its insured(s)].

Such partnership laws are a longstanding staple within common law jurisdictions such as London, New York and Singapore. The new law will allow financial firms from these jurisdictions to be able to operate within a legal framework they are familiar with. Furthermore, the law will support financial firms in establishing financial investment funds, and grant them access to new funding mechanisms.

What plans are in the pipeline to make Bahrain an attractive destination for foreign investors?

As the freest economy in the Middle East and North Africa, with 100-per-cent foreign ownership in most sectors, a strategic geographical location and high levels of connectivity with our neighbouring markets, Bahrain is already an attractive destination for foreign investors.

By continually introducing policy reform and supportive legislation that make Bahrain an even more business-friendly environment, the EDB and other government bodies will collectively work to create further opportunities for new entrants to our market.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Let me leave you with one final thought. Soft infrastructure – the supporting policy and regulation that is essential to creating a successful business environment – can be even more important than the bridges and the roads that we so often focus on. If we get the policies right, we can create new businesses, grow our economy and create new and better jobs for Bahrainis.

March 2017 45

interview

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riendship between China and Bahrain dates back to ancient times and, in recent years, since the establishment of diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have continued to develop rapidly. “Since I assumed my mission in April 2015, under the guidance of the leaders of our two countries and with the joint efforts of our peoples, the high-level exchanges have become more frequent, mutual trust has been constantly strengthened, economic cooperation has been greatly promoted and cultural and educational exchanges have achieved great success,” says the ambassador.

He adds that his aim is to enhance the allaround exchange and cooperation, especially with the integration and implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative – a common development strategy proposed by the Chinese government aimed at increasing connectivity with the rest of Eurasia – and integration with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030.

In 2016, the Economic Development Board (EDB) set up a new office in Hong Kong, which is its second branch in China. His Excellency says: “China will constantly expand its investment and trade to Bahrain and the EDB is also planning to establish more branches in China, which will play an important role to foster bilateral trade relations. China is always ready to provide assistance and help for that.”

Though figures are incomplete, Ambassador Qi Zhenhong says there are more than 2,000 Chinese living and working in Bahrain and most of them are tenants of Dragon City and staff of Huawei. “I believe that with the rapid development of the economic cooperation and personnel exchanges between China and Bahrain, the number of Chinese people in the Kingdom will increase constantly,” he adds.

At the invitation of the EDB, a delegation led by the Mayor of Shenzhen City visited Bahrain in September 2016 and an MoU of friendship between Shenzhen and Manama was signed. At the same time, the ChinaBahrain Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum led to various other agreements. And last November, HE, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of Capital Governorate, visited Shenzhen and attended the 18th China Hi-Tech Fair.

A further example of cooperation is the work of Chinese company CPIC Abahsain Fiberglass, which is planning to invest USD500 million in Bahrain to expand four production lines. One line is already in use, the second is under construction. Work on the third and fourth will start this year and be completed in 2020.

His Excellency says: “This will be just a 46 March 2017

HE Qi Zhenhong

A COOPERATIVE FRIENDSHIP LIZ O’REILLY Almost two years into his posting, HE Qi Zhenhong, Chinese Ambassador, talks about the ever-growing relationship between China and Bahrain. beginning, and some large-scale cooperative projects of infrastructural construction and production capacity will follow closely with our joint efforts.”

And though trade between the two countries fell to around USD1.2 billion in 2015, partly due to the sharp drop in oil prices, Ambassador Qi Zhenhong is confident of great improvement of the bilateral investment and trade volume.

Culturally too, the two countries are close and an MoU was recently signed which will see the region’s first Chinese Cultural Centre set up on the island. His Excellency explains: “The Chinese Ministry of Culture and Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities are working together to cooperate and coordinate to complete the establishment of the centre as soon as possible.

“Bahrain was chosen for three reasons: firstly, it is a safe and stable oasis in the Middle East, it promotes policies of economic diversity and Bahraini people are friendly to foreigners; secondly, in recent years the cultural exchanges between China and Bahrain have become increasingly close. Large-scale art events such

as the Chinese Culture Festival and Chinese Culture Month have been successfully held in Bahrain, creating an important platform to spread Chinese culture and deepen our mutual understanding and friendship. Since 2016, the Suzhou Ballet Art Troupe, Anhui Acrobatic Art Troupe and Gansu Long Theatre Art Troupe have visited, giving wonderful and popular performances to the local audience. Thirdly, the Chinese Cultural Centre will further enhance our cultural exchange and cooperation, and enhance the friendship of our two peoples.”

His Excellency enjoys sampling local culture.

His wife also works in the embassy and he concludes: “All members of the Bahraini social community are friendly to China and Chinese people. We enjoy our safe, comfortable and pleasant lives here. I have been in extensive contact with Bahraini people from all circles and have made lots of friends here. My favourite thing is to join hands with all the Bahraini friends to enhance cooperation and promote the bilateral relations between China and Bahrain onto a new level.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jean-Paul Dantil

THE DREAM JOB APPLE SHARMA This luxury five-star property has a new general manager at its helm. Introducing Jean-Paul Dantil, BTM chats with him about his new role and future plans.

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nergetic and beaming with positivity, Jean-Paul can barely contain his excitement at being in the Kingdom and landing one of his dream jobs at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

He is a German national who was born in the US and was brought up in Switzerland. “Growing up in Switzerland, you can only choose from a few industries – it’s either hospitality, watches or chocolates,” he says. “I chose hotels. At 16, I did an apprenticeship at the InterContinental and fell in love with the job.”

After graduating from the Centre International de Glion, Jean-Paul journeyed through some of the world’s top luxury brands, which took him from Europe to Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East. One of the proudest moments of his career was when he opened and managed the Das Stue hotel in Berlin, Germany, renowned as one of the country’s best luxury boutique hotels.

Prior to gracing the shores of Bahrain, he served as the general manager of The RitzCarlton, Vienna, for two and a half years.

“The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, is one of the flagship hotels of the group, so when this opportunity came up, there was no question about it,” says Jean-Paul. “It was a dream come true. I’m very excited to be here and I www.bahrainthismonth.com

have a great team of Ladies and Gentlemen working with me.

“I’ve only been here two weeks, so I’m still observing. It’s a big property – we have 11 different outlets that are very successful.”

It’s no easy feat to run a property of this size and stature but Jean-Paul doesn’t seem daunted by the challenge in the least.

“Sometimes you have to take a step back and focus on what the business demands,” he says.

With substantial experience under his belt, he believes hospitality chains are learning a lot from independent hotels and breaking away from the cookie-cutter mentality. “With a group like The Ritz-Carlton, I have a lot of support,” he explains. “I can pick up the phone and talk to any of the other general managers and discuss things. With independent hotels, you’re on your own.”

Although he has only just taken the reins, Jean-Paul already has plans for the hotel, and says: “It’s probably too soon to announce details but we will be looking at revamping a couple of F&B outlets, especially Plums and La Med.” With various luxury options opening in the Kingdom, Jean-Paul believes that the property stands apart from its competitors in many ways, from the appearance of the hotel, the moment

guests walk into the lobby, to its outdoor beaches and other facilities.

“The Ritz-Carlton has a lot of history,” he adds. “We have guests who have been coming here for years, and we have staff that have been here for the past 15 to 20 years.

“It’s great that there are more properties coming up – it’s good for tourism and for the country. There will be more people visiting.

It gives us an opportunity to raise the level of service.

“I like competition. It’s like a race; you can run on your own but there’s no fun unless you have someone else running with you.”

According to Jean-Paul, the recipe for success for managing a luxury hotel and resort lies in having the right team – one that understands the vision of the brand. He explains: “Take a football team, for example.

You can’t just have Messi playing to win; you have to have midfielders and other players to support him for the team to be a success.”

And is Jean-Paul’s life all about hotels? Not quite. Living day in and day out in hotels, he prefers renting a house when he goes to his favourite holiday destination – Portugal. He also enjoys vacationing in Cap Ferrat, France, and spending summer in the mountains of Austria.

March 2017 47

interview

BUON APPETITO! APPLE SHARMA A banker by profession and a foodie at heart, Taher Makkiyah gives an insight into his career and reveals plans for his Italian eatery.

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passionate food lover, but with the discipline of a perfectionist, it’s not difficult to imagine Taher as a successful banker. Having held various prominent positions at some of the world’s top banks, his achievements are nothing short of impressive.

His 36-year banking career began after he graduated with an MBA from Tulane University in New Orleans, US. “I started in 1975, in New York, at one of the top money centre banks – at that time it was called Manufacturers Hanover Trust Bank. Following that, in 1991, we merged with the Chemical Bank, and later, in 1996, with Chase, today called JP Morgan Chase Bank.

“I was a member of the team that helped establish the Bahrain branch in 1975, and I had the pleasure of also serving as the vice president branch manager five years later, for a period of four years, before returning to the US. “I’m very proud of being from this part of the world and achieving very high performances in my banking career. I was one of the very few Arabs in the American banking system that reached the level of authority that was invested in me.”

After leaving JP Morgan Chase as senior managing director, Taher returned to Bahrain to join the Arab Banking Corporation as the chief banking officer, and also went on to establish an Islamic investment bank.

A passionate food lover, his transition from banker to restaurateur came fairly naturally.

“Food has been my hobby since I was a child and the restaurant business is simply a translation of it at this stage of my life,” he says.

As a novice to the industry, Taher brought the BICE franchise to Bahrain in 2012. But having learned the ropes over the years, he has now moved on and put his own stamp on the venue with a complete refurbishment and a change of name. “After you build experience and know to some extent how the business works, you start to feel you really need an identity you can 48 March 2017

Taher Makkiyah

relate to with your heart and mind,” he says.

The eatery has been relaunched under the new label – Baci – meaning kisses in Italian.

“I wanted a name that is simple, short and classy, with a soft meaning that people can relate to in this part of the world,” Taher explains. “We really wanted to come up with a new, energetic image that we will end up adopting as our real child that we are responsible for growing.”

Strategically located at the prestigious Moda Mall and spanning over two floors, Baci comprises a fine-dining restaurant downstairs and a casual lounge upstairs. It will continue to serve Italian cuisine and keep its signature dishes, which are extremely popular with the customers. “We are also introducing new dishes to our menu that are adapted towards the tastes in this part of the world,” says Taher.

Amongst its new offerings is a fixed-price business lunch menu, served daily and changed every week. The eatery also dishes up light bites and all the bread is baked in-house,

including pizza dough, burger buns and bread sticks, with every new dish carefully reviewed before going on the menu. “We are also very proud to introduce a big menu of desserts,” adds Taher. “We do various types of cakes, whether it’s for a wedding, a birthday or a special occasion, and a lot of small dessert bites, such as éclairs, cheesecake, carrot cake, various types of petit fours and fruit tarts.”

Baci is also launching a ladies’ night every Saturday, with live entertainment. Musicians and DJs, depending on guests’ preferences, are also available for private parties.

With the aim of catering to a diverse clientele, Taher’s target audience encompasses young Bahrainis, Europeans and government guests as well as corporate clients.

A purist by nature, he runs a tight ship and believes service is a common factor of his previous careers and now. “I’m a banker and I continue to think like one, in terms of our discipline, aspiration to serve with excellence to achieve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

We think and act like an organisation.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

• At Baci we have the experience of Hosting Family events, Corporate events, and Wedding events in the Dining area as well as our Lounge.

• We provide a daily Happy Hour in our Lounge from 5 pm till 8 pm.

• At Baci we provide every Saturday a Brunch Menu for over 30 types of Foods that clients can choose from and will prepared to them at their request. Eat all you wish with a beverages from our House List at BD 18 ++ and for Children less than 15 Yrs old BD 11 ++.

• We have a Superior List of Homemade Cakes, and a Variety of Pastries that we provide for Function at Baci as well as for Catering to Houses.

• We are also proud at Baci of preparing the Variety of Pizzas from Highly Selected Italian Special Flour and Cheese. Please see our Facebook and Instagram.

• We are also prepared to offer very Special Burger Sandwiches inside the Restaurant and for delivery within MODA MALL. • Baci is also offering a Ladies Night with a nice Selection of Beverages every Saturday with live Music.

• Our Business Lunch Menu offer an attractive Venue of Starters Main Course and Dessert and Hot and Cold Beverages at BD 13.500 ++. Our Menu changes every week Starting every Sunday.

Telephone: +973 17533666, Fax: +973 17533777 Website: www.bacibahrain.com, Email: restaurant@bacibahrain.com Face book: Baci Ristorante Bahrain, Instagram: BACIBAHRAIN, Twitter: BACIBAHRAIN Location: 2nd Floor MODA MALL Bahrain World Trade Center

interview

Antony J. Hurtis

MASTER OF HIS TRADE BEHNAZ SANJANA

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Antony J. Hurtis has come a long way from being a beginner in the hospitality industry to heading a wellknown property in Bahrain. BTM hears about his journey.

aving worked with the prestigious Taj Group of Hotels in India for 10 years, Antony turned his sights overseas when a career with a wellestablished hotel chain in Bahrain beckoned.

The committed hotelier worked his way up the ladder in the following decade with the Ramee Group, going from food and beverage manager to assitant general manager and general manager within the organisation. When Gulf Diwaniya Hotel Management Group took over the Baisan International Hotel from the Ramee Group in October 2016, he joined as general manager of the hotel.

“I know the ins and outs of this property; the entire inventory, the rooms, the restaurants and the clubs. I enjoy the freedom and authority to manage the hotel my way, and my work is paying off,” says Antony.

Speaking of his professional beginnings, he says he toyed with the idea of veering into medicine at the behest of his father, but a cousin working in hospitality in the UAE inspired him to follow suit. “I studied hotel management and got a job with the Taj Group of Hotels. The early phase of my career was very tough, but exciting, and I fell in love with the lively atmosphere immediately. You need to focus completely on the job, putting your personal woes away during work to ensure 50 March 2017

your customers have a happy experience at the hotel.”

“I started my career as a steward and then went on to work in all departments in the capacities of bartender, cashier, room service order taker, and then as captain, supervisor and banquet/restaurant manager,” he shares.

Antony believes this comprehensive grounding is what helped him to reach his current position, and he has observed that those who take on top management roles without the basic exposure at the grassroots often struggle to do an exceptional job.

He also states that his core field of expertise – which is food and beverage – is so vast and deep that the learning never stops. “Everyday one comes across so many new things in this industry. I came from a five-star background in India to four-star hotels in Bahrain, but there was still so much to learn,” he says.

The action-packed running of Baisan International Hotel means Antony is on the job 24/7. The hotel has 105 rooms which are home to numerous tourists from across the GCC whenever they visit Bahrain. “We also have a health club and spa here for guests. Our food and beverage outlets, like The Warbler, are old favourites among locals and expatriates for their ambiance, live entertainment and Friday brunches. Our Arabic restaurants and lounges

are renowned among the Arab population.

Nattinpuram is a very popular restaurant among South Indian expatriates for its ambiance and the authentic cuisine of Kerala served on banana leaves. We’re also in the process of opening a new venue serving North Indian delicacies accompanied with live music.

Olympic, our sports-themed restaurant, is a relaxed space for sports enthusiasts. All this combines as the USP of the hotel; we have options for everyone.”

Commenting on the nature of the hospitality industry, Antony admits it can be tough on workers, especially in the beginning. But he urges youngsters to have a goal in mind and work towards it proactively, without getting complacent in their jobs. He says: “When I was a steward, I loved doing the captain’s job. I took a keen interest in learning my superior’s tasks, so I always stood a chance to be promoted and could take on the new role with ease. Also, career growth may be slow at the start, but with persistence and working smart, the sky is the limit.”

Looking ahead, Antony is optimistic about the hotel industry as well as his personal career graph. The Gulf Diwaniya Group is looking to expand by adding more properties to its holdings and, with Antony in line to manage a larger portfolio, his future looks bright and promising. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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P.O. Box: 584, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel: +973 17291537 / 17727600, Email: had.fmcg@intercol.com

interview

FRAUDSTERS BEWARE LIZ O’REILLY Mark Van Leewarden is considered one of the world’s leading fraud busters, BTM caught up with him ahead of a visit to the island this month.

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n ex-cop with an honours degree in law, New Zealander Mark Van Leewarden has been dubbed a ‘financial bounty hunter’. But while the title might sound glib, the job he does is deadly serious. So much so that threats are not unknown – not entirely surprising when the cases he and his firm take on involve millions of dollars and, potentially, long jail terms for their perpetrators.

But how does one end up in this field? Mark explains: “After working undercover for the New Zealand Police, I was fast-tracked into the Criminal Investigation Branch and became the country’s youngest qualified detective. Early on, I worked on every possible type of crime from homicide down. At that time I was intrigued with private investigation work. Accordingly, I started my first investigation company after I left the police and was studying for my law degree.

When I did begin practice as a barrister it was with a specialist investigative bent.”

But it was always his intention to use his legal qualification as an investigator. He says: “My lecturers thought I was a heretic when I graduated and decided to pursue investigation work. The normal accepted course for a law honours graduate was to join one of the big law firms. I was convinced there was a future in the industry and knew that to be successful I needed legal qualifications to overlay my experience as a detective.”

As well as a ‘financial bounty hunter’, Mark’s also been called a ‘debt collector in a suit’. But, far from being offended, he actually agrees, to an extent, saying: “I find this amusing but in its most basic terms it’s right. Straight debt, however, doesn’t usually bear the hallmarks of dishonesty. Fraud is fundamentally basic as well, it is just theft wearing a finely embroidered dress to make it look appealing and complex.

“Fraudsters are human game, it’s a hunt and you need a quiver full of many types of resources to bring down your prey. The problem also is that, in respect to international fraud, there is no overarching investigative body so it is left to private sector initiatives to recover losses and liaise with different countries’ enforcement bodies regarding 52 March 2017

Mark Van Leewarden

prosecutions. One of the fraudsters’ strategies is to house different aspects of their operation in different countries thereby using jurisdictional complexities to their advantage.

Whether it is debt or otherwise, we have the ability to strike anywhere in the world, freeze victims’ funds and move against fraudsters. The problem for them is we could be lurking anywhere and in any form.”

As a police officer, there was, at one point, a price on his head and his current activities certainly make him unpopular in certain quarters but he appears unconcerned, saying: “There is currently no imminent threat, however, we always take a variety of security measures when working on any serious task.

There is plenty of personal protection experience in the company with deployments

as bodyguards for politicians and dignitaries. I actually think these crooks should be worried about us, not the other way around! There is a new generation coming through too, with my daughter Charlotte, who is also a barrister, joining the business a couple of years ago; so the team certainly won’t die.”

The company operates on many different levels and, sometimes, to catch a criminal you have to think like one. Mark explains: “We remain the only company in Australasia with a dedicated undercover programme. We recruit and train agents for deployment in a variety of roles targeting theft, fraud and drug offending.

Organisations are legally entitled to investigate dishonesty within their ranks and undercover operations produce the best most conclusive evidence.”

He is no stranger to the Kingdom and reveals that he is currently investigating a financial adviser, based in Bahrain, involved in fraudulent activity. “I will be commenting on some of the specifics regarding this case and the impact on Bahrain in my address,” he says. “I don’t usually do addresses like this, but if elevating awareness prevents even one dollar disappearing to dishonesty I am happy to do it.”

The island has made great strides in establishing itself as a financial hub, however, there are potential challenges lurking ahead.

Mark says: “Bahrain has done a great job of positioning itself as a financial centre, but with expansion, prominence, a high-value currency and an increase in private wealth, sharks will begin to circle. Awareness, robust controls and a strong regulatory environment are needed to protect the gains made.”

When it comes to protecting yourself against fraud, there is a golden rule – if it looks too good to be true, then it is. “Be careful, be skeptical, your wealth could depend upon it,” Mark explains. “With investment schemes, use known professional advisers and beware of promised high returns, unsolicited calls or emails and demands for confidentiality.

“Do your research, scour the Internet and call local regulatory agencies to see if they know the players. These people will try all manner of techniques to relieve you of your money.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

SWISS SOPHISTICATION CHARLIE HOLDING BTM chats with Henri Kennedie about his hotel group’s Bahrain operations and plans for expansion across the Middle East.

A

s chairman and CEO of Swiss International Hotels & Resorts, Henri knows the hospitality industry like the back of his hand and says that the company’s latest venture is quickly gaining momentum.

Swiss International Hotel, Manama – formerly known as the Ramada Palace Hotel – is a distinctive property nestled in the heart of the bustling Gudabiya area. It has undergone a drastic transformation that marks the UAEbased group’s maiden venture in the Kingdom.

Henri says: “We have several properties in Africa, India, China, Europe and even Saudi but this is the first in Bahrain and it marks the start of our planned expansion across the Middle East, which is a very important market. In fact, I moved my office from Switzerland to the UAE – so that should give you an indication of how important the region is to us.”

The Bahrain property is setting a sterling example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination. Henri has nothing but praise for the hotel and says the location is definitely a selling point. “This hotel has very spacious rooms, excellent food and beverage facilities and it is very easily accessible in an old part of Bahrain that is bursting with character. Swiss International Hotel, Manama, is perfect for individual business travellers and we hope to work well in Bahrain for the satisfaction of all our guests.”

Reputation plays an invaluable role in any company’s operations and it is something that Henri says is of huge importance. He explains: “We encourage guests to leave reviews on our website, social media channels or even sites like TripAdvisor or Expedia. We have a system called SWISS-REP, which collects all that data and generates a score. If the visit was not right, maybe you get a six or something of the sort.

“In the days of Ramada the hotel scored a 6.4 and now it is at 7.7 and we have no doubt that number will grow.”

Henri says there are three sure-fire ways to do that. “One is taking excellent care of guests, making sure you take initiative and exceed their expectations; two is to encourage them to leave reviews; and, lastly, making sure www.bahrainthismonth.com

Henri Kennedie

the general manager is the only one who replies to them.”

Since opening seven months ago, the hotel has been doing exceptionally well. No doubt part of the reason is Swiss International’s staple food and beverage concepts.

Swiss Café Restaurant and Lounge is a venue that proves you can choose healthy food without missing out on amazing flavours.

Meanwhile, Ted & Co Bar and Lounge is an ideal setting to meet with friends over an aperitif or digestif or simply a cool drink during the day.

To ensure these outlets run smoothly, a welltrained, dedicated staff is an absolute must.

Henri says: “Staff are trained properly, in fact, almost every month there is somebody coming to train either the kitchen team, service team or management team – it’s a very hands-on approach. The staff at this hotel have exceeded all expectations and are setting a great example.”

Whether you are planning an executive meeting, seminars, a gala dinner, a themed event, or the wedding of your dreams, Swiss International Hotels & Resorts is an ideal choice.

March 2017 53

interview

T

his month will see the arrival of delegates and business men and women from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) as the Kingdom’s American Chamber of Commerce stages the AmCham MENA Regional Council’s Bi-Annual Forum.

Set to take place on March 15 and 16, the gathering will focus on ‘SMEs: Unlocking Economic Potential’ in the region. Announcing the event, chamber president, Qays H Zu’bi, said: “We’re extremely proud to have the opportunity to host this important forum which aims to promote the expansion of trade and investment between the markets of the MENA region and the United States.”

“The forum also provides a unique platform for the Kingdom and an opportunity for us to showcase the vast business and investment potential that exists here, and the world-class business environment that continues to see the Kingdom remain one of the region’s leading financial and business centres.”

Strong support for the event has come from strategic partners, the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), Tamkeen, the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce & Tourism (MOICT). There has also been great cooperation from the US Chamber of Commerce, the MENA Council Secretariat at AmCham Egypt and AmCham chapters from across the region, including those in Abu Dhabi, Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine and Tunisia.

Mr Zu’bi said members from these groups will be taking part alongside an expected 300 attendees, including representatives from the US and MENA governments, multilateral financing institutions, US business councils and other regional business organisations, as well as key players from the entrepreneurship scene.

Of the focus on SMEs, Mr Zu’bi added: “With SMEs known to be the real drivers of economic growth the world over, we believe this is an important topic to champion in order to support more rapid regional economic development and good growth.”

“We also feel this is a befitting topic to undertake in Bahrain, which has long served as a leading SME hub, where entrepreneurship is strongly supported through a business culture of innovation and also by numerous private and public sector organisations dedicated to the support of SME development and growth – including Tamkeen, one of our supporting institutions.

“Importantly, and what we think makes this event unique, is the particular focus that the 54 March 2017

Qays H Zu’bi

AMCHAM BAHRAIN HOSTS REGIONAL FORUM LIZ O’REILLY Chamber president Qays H Zu’bi explains what’s in store at this important event. forum is placing on the delivery of tangible results for attending companies and delegates.”

The event will have a multifaceted programme including strategic and focused discussion, B2B introductions and workshops.

“In developing the programme, we have looked at ways to ensure that, while discussions are at a high level, they also allow attendees to walk away with new and effective strategies for business development. In doing so, we’ve selected a few key topics on which our expert speakers and panellists will focus,” said Mr Zu’bi.

Subjects include: SMEs as key drivers of economic development in the MENA region; the regional sme ecosystem: a fresh look at thriving techniques; SME financing opportunities and export support programmes; and the integration of SMEs into the supply chain of US and multinational companies in the region.

An impressive line-up of speakers includes: Khush Choksy, senior vice president, Middle East

and Turkey Affairs, US Chamber of Commerce; Khalid Al Rumaihi, chief executive, Bahrain Economic Development Board; Reem El Saady, national programme manager, Small Business Support at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) based in Egypt; and Mohamed Shalaby, plant director, Mondelez (Kraft Bahrain), among others to be announced.

The forum will also focus on bringing delegates together to discuss and engage as well as conduct pre-planned B2B meetings and workshops across a range of sectors. The event will also host the first SME Pitch Session for a MENA Council Forum, an SME support session in cooperation with CH9, a company helping start-ups and SMEs in Bahrain. There will also be a pitch session giving AmCham members the chance to present business ideas to potential investors.

For more information and to register go to www.amcham.finmarkcoms.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Networking Lunch

The Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) held its first business networking lunch meeting of 2017 with guest speaker, Simon Galpin, managing director of the Bahrain Economic Development Board, at The Gulf Hotel.

Members at the event with Simon Galpin

Mohammed Salahuddin & Mazen Al Umran

Christian Syme & Khalid Al Zayani

Simon Galpin, Mohammed Salahuddin & Nasser Al Arayedh

Ron, Travis & Rodney

Debbie, Jackie & Abdulhamid Hatem

Tareq

Simon & Mark

Survita, Muna & Nadine Youlia & Tanvi

Corporate Gathering

The Domain Hotel & Spa held a corporate gathering at Domain PrivĂŠ.

Hussain, Frank & Fawzi

Jacob, Maria & Shiwantha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Muna & Hussain

Suhel

Peter & Marilyn

Subi

Mumeen & Fatima

March 2017 55

bystander

Bahrain Family Expo Groovy Events organised the Bahrain Family Expo 2017 at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Mahmood, Zainab, Haifa & Neil

Abeer, Ameena & Sara

Layal & Karim

Katrina, Kavitha & Muteea

Joana & Ruby

Hussain Ameena & Masooma

Che & Anna

Zain & Ruqaya

SKAL Dinner SKAL held its general networking dinner featuring guest speaker Dr Akbar Jaffari.

SKAL members at the event

Dr Akbar & Sadiq

56 March 2017

Huda & Hans

Buzizi & Janu

Mukul & Urs

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Investment Forum

Lulu Group International held a business lunch in connection with the Bahrain-Kerala Business Investment Forum with guest HE Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of the State of Kerala, India.

HE Pinarayi Vijayan, Kamala & Yusiff Ali

S O W H AT C R E AT E S A G R E AT M E M O R Y ?

A U N I Q U E C E L E B R AT I O N , OF COURSE!

Sudesh, Juzer, Nanda Kumar & Biju

GROUP BOOKINGS

HE Alok Kumar Sinha & Shaikh Khalifa bin Daij Al Khalifa

Dr Varghese Kurian

CORPORATE EVENTS

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Suher & Vicky

Nalini & Shantini

GREAT GROUP DISCOUNTS

TAILORED PACKAGES

BIGGEST BLOCKBUSTERS

GOURMET F&B OPTIONS

ADVANCED PROJECTION & SOUND TECHNOLOGY

VARIETY OF SEATING OPTIONS

For enquiries call us 17813666 or write to us at enquiry.bharain@muktaa2cinemas.com

FOLLOW US ON Quraish Dadabhai, Juzer & Ali

www.bahrainthismonth.com

/muktaA2Bahrain

Khalid Al Zayani

March 2017 57

bystander

NYE Party Exelon’s New Year Party at Coral Bay with DJ Jackson, DJ Fawazzo, DJ Santi, DJ Shortman, DJ LinaColada, DJ Simba and Salsabor Bahrain, was the one of the biggest events on the island.

Dev, Akshay, Jaykumar, Varghese Kurian & Mansoor

Saf, Mansoor, Jeeben, Sija, Nithin, Sherin & Geo

DJ Jackson & Mansoor

Chris & Redia

Aaron & Fatima

Winners of the Mukta Cinema NYE contest

Guests at the party

Business Meeting Al Namal Group hosted a business meet for TOMCOM An initiative of the Telangana government led by Hon’ Home Minister Sri Naini Narsimha Reddy, to supply high skilled Manpower to Bahrain.

Attendees of the business meet

Al Namal Group signing MOU with TOMCOM

Hon’ Sri Naini Narsimha Reddy

58 March 2017

Jamaal Dawood & Yusif Dawood

Lagi George

Dr Ravi Singh

Santosh, Amarnath & Arshad

Andy & Chris Burrows

Mansoor & Saf

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Diplomatic Lunch

Jaleel Al Ansari hosted a lunch for the German parliamentary delegation at his residence in Mahooz.

HE Dr Peter Ramsaurt, Ahmed Al Ansari, Dina Al Ansari & Jaleel Al Ansari

HE Dr Kristina Schrรถder & HE Alfred Simms-Protz

Jaleel Al Ansari & Aysha Al Ansari

Kareem Al Shaker, Abdulrahman Juma, Khalid Almoayyed, Khamis Al Mukla & Abdulla Juma

Fawzi Kanoo, Jaleel Al Ansari, HE Osama Al Absi & Ahmed Al Ansari

Nabeel Al Hamar

Abdulla Juma, Mohammed Salahiddin & HE Abdulla Abdulatif

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 59

MOTORING

A DRIVE TO REMEMBER CHARLIE HOLDING Impressive performance, innovative styling and state-of-the-art technologies ensure this SUV stays well ahead of the competition.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 67 A SPORTING NEW ADDITION 68 FIERCER THAN EVER

Ford Edge

T

hey say never judge a book by its cover, but that’s a real challenge when you first lay your eyes on the Ford Edge – it’s a good-looking vehicle and there’s no denying it. Smooth lines and curvy contours give it a dynamic appeal.

However, (as my old mum says) it’s what’s on the inside that counts and this mid-sized crossover is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning driver. I’m not just talking about the tech, the engine variants or the tasteful interior design – it goes right down to the nuts and bolts.

The advanced multi-link rear suspension, combined with an enhanced McPherson strut front suspension delivers excellent wheel control and refined ride quality.

Under the bonnet is a naturally aspirated 3.5litre V6 engine equipped with dual exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission. The shifts www.bahrainthismonth.com

are fairly quick and there is a decent amount of torque that gives the Edge some real oomph.

Speaking of shifts, you can manually select gears via race-inspired paddles on the steering wheel. Formula 1 watch out!

The transmission has two modes: drive and sport. Sport mode offers a more aggressive shift pattern – allowing the engine to rev higher during acceleration and hold lower gears longer to support spirited, fast-paced sessions.

I had great fun switching between modes to better suit the driving conditions.

The interior has a modern vibe that exudes class and convenience. The model I drove had a central eight-inch LCD touch screen supporting SYNC with MyFord Touch, which works the infotainment system and most everything else. This is one of the most user-friendly units I’ve used recently – within minutes I was switching between

functions like a pro.

And, the Edge is practical too. There is plenty of storage space throughout the cabin and at the rear, which means this is a great vehicle for ferrying kids around or heading to the supermarket for the weekly shop.

Parking is also easy work. Distance sensors help you judge the space between the vehicle and obstacles, both in front and behind. When they detect an object, they activate a warning that intensifies the closer you get to it.

However, that’s not a reason to get lazy – I’m old school and still use my mirrors as well.

Crossovers have a huge fan following in the Kingdom, thanks in no small part to their rugged good looks, undeniable capability and perfect proportions. The Ford Edge is a great example of how far these vehicles have come in recent years and I highly recommend you book a test drive yourself.

March 2017 61

motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS

Elegance Meets Performance

With its eye-catching looks, innovative technology and extraordinary levels of comfort, this sophisticated model makes an immediate impression.

The Mercedes-Benz C Class has undergone some dramatic changes following an impressive revamp for 2017. It’s slightly longer and wider but still instantly recognisable thanks to the sleek styling, aggressive front grille and muscular creases along the flanks.

And, the beauty of this model goes much more than skin-deep – the use of premium materials and immaculate finishes gives the C Class one of the most upscale interiors imaginable.

This model boasts a state-of-the-art infotainment system, which is as user friendly as it is advanced.

There is also a plethora of available assistance and safety features, including Attention Assist, which helps drivers recognise inattentive driving due to fatigue.

Available in three variants, the C Class is designed with only the most discerning drivers in mind – those who demand performance, efficiency and power. As such, this sporty model has a number of different driving modes, which can be adjusted with the touch of a button, that dramatically change the driving experience to best suit the driver’s needs.

There have also been improvements to the suspension, providing a high level of comfort with low road roar and tyre vibration characteristics.

Al Haddad Motors is the distributor for MercedesBenz in Bahrain.

Call 17 785-454 to book a test drive, or for more information.

62 March 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The car of the future has arrived.

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

motoring

JAC MOTORS

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

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

The vehicle is attractively styled and boasts LED headlights as well as fog lamps, which are neatly blended into the lower section of the front bumper.

Besides its fashionable design, reliability and economy are part of the Refine’s DNA, its makers say. The minibus offers plenty of space for both driver and passengers and its clever design allows the seats to be tipped up, slid or reclined. Whatever the circumstances, there’s certain to be a combination to suit your requirements.

Behind the cargo compartment is a pleasant surprise, more storage space in the form of a large box – more than 2.37 metres long, 1.65 metres wide and 1.15 metres high.

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

64 March 2017

The Refine comes with an ABS+EBD system to ensure that you can stop safely and suddenly should the need arise. The 16-inch brake discs provide a high level of stopping performance; particularly useful when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

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

As an added bonus, the Refine is available in a number of colours, to reflect your style.

The vehicle is available to lease monthly for just BD120.

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

bystander

Turkish Festival Mercure Grand Hotel Seef and Turkish Airlines hosted the Turkish Authentic Cuisine and Folk Dance Festival 2017.

Dignitaries and guests at the event

HE Hatun Demirer, Abdulrahman Fakhro & Nabeel

Khadem & Jaleel Al Ansari

Nasser Al Arayedh, Ebrahim Zainel & Khadem Al Saeed

Salman Muhanna, Mustafa Al-Sayed & Yousif Salah

HE Mohammed bin Youssef & Salman Muhanna

Ahmed, Ali & Nahed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 65

motoring

AUDI

Revamped for Success

With a new look and new technologies, this model looks set to impress drivers across the Kingdom.

66 March 2017

Thee Audi A5 range has been completely reimagined, and the results are impressive.

This classy coupé sports a fresh, modern look but it is still instantly recognisable as an Audi thanks to the unmistakable DNA that trickles down from the previous version, including the wave-shaped shoulder line. And, the pronounced bulges over the wheel arches emphasise all four tyres, giving a subtle nod to the marque’s famous quattro all-wheel drive.

The long bonnet, stretched wheelbase and short overhangs underscore the sportiness of this model, which is available in two TFSI engine variants. Their power output has increased and is between 190bhp and 252bhp. Compared with the previous model, they offer up to 17 per cent more performance while consuming as much as 22 per cent less fuel.

The A5 comes with a drivetrain solution tailor-made for each engine variant. The seven-speed S tronic is used with the four-cylinder engines. The eight-speed tiptronic is reserved for the S5 V6 engine that comes standard with quattro all-wheel drive. Audi also offers the optional rear-axle sport differential for even more dynamic driving and precision.

When it comes to the interior, Audi is leading the charge in its segment. High-quality materials in a wide range of colours provide an unmistakable ambiance and underscore the premium character of this midsized model.

And, there’s plenty of storage space too. The luggage compartment offers a volume of 465 litres, while the rear seat has a 40:20:40 split and can be easily folded forward. Audi also offers the two-door coupé with optional gesture control for opening the

luggage compartment lid via a foot motion.

Infotainment options are also impressive. This model is available with the optional Audi virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT display with a resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels. Together with the MMI Navigation Plus – including 8.3-inch monitor on the centre console – it forms the central information unit.

The focal point of the MMI terminal is the round rotary pushbutton. Its surface is home to a touchsensitive touchpad used to input characters and also for multi-finger gestures, enabling the driver to zoom in on the map, for example. The whole MMI control logic is similar to that of a smartphone, including the intelligent free text search function.

A combination of different technologies enhances the safety, comfort and efficiency. Compared with the previous model, nearly all the systems are completely new or have been extensively updated.

Meanwhile, the S5 coupé variant takes things to the next level. It rockets from 0 to 100kmph in 4.7 seconds.

It’s newly developed, turbocharged V6 engine produces 354bhp and consumes just 7.3 litres of fuel per 100km. The sharper S exterior design and the S-specific details in the interior underscore the dynamic character of the two-door sports coupé.

Safety is perhaps the most important aspect of any vehicle and Audi has come up trumps. The A5 has been awarded top grades in the Euro NCAP test, confirming its place among the safest vehicles in the competition. This is true for both adult and child safety, for pedestrian protection and for other safety systems.

Call Audi Centre Bahrain on 17 459-933. www.bahrainthismonth.com

PORSCHE CENTRE BAHRAIN

A Sporting New Addition

This reputed German marque is expanding its iconic product line with a range of new GTS models.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Five exciting new variants of Porsche’s 911 range are set to roll out this year – namely the 911 Carrera GTS with rear-wheel drive, the 911 Carrera 4 GTS with allwheel drive – both available as a coupé and cabriolet – and the 911 Targa 4 GTS with all-wheel drive.

In quintessential Porsche style, they build on the success of previous models and deliver even more power. A newly developed turbocharger for the 3-litre six-cylinder flat engine increases power to 450bhp, delivering 30bhp more than the 911 Carrera S and 20bhp more than the naturally aspirated engine of the corresponding prior GTS model. All variants are available with a manual seven-gear transmission or the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK).

With a maximum torque of 550Nm, available between 2,150 and 5,000rpm, the new GTS models provide even better acceleration and elasticity figures. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is included as standard on all GTS models, whilst the coupés feature the PASM sports chassis, which lowers the vehicle’s body by 10 millimetres.

All GTS models feature a staggering top speed in excess of 300kmph, with the frontrunner of the range being the coupé at 312kmph (with manual transmission and rear-wheel drive).

It’s unsurprising that GTS variants stand out within the 911 model line thanks to their technology and visual design. An aerodynamically optimised front end – featuring a low front spoiler, as well as the increased rear spoiler extension height – all reduce the lift forces on the front and rear axles, in comparison to existing Carrera S models.

At the rear, the GTS is unmistakeable, thanks to smoked tail lights, silk-gloss black air intake grille and central black twin tailpipes for the sports exhaust system, which is included as standard. A new black

trim strip between the taillights characterises the rear-wheel-drive models, with a light strip reserved for the all-wheel-drive models.

Sport Design exterior mirrors, 20-inch wheels with a central locking device painted in silk-gloss black and GTS logos on the doors complete the side view. The characteristic Targa bar, which is supplied in black for the first time on the GTS, also gives the 911 Targa a distinctive look.

The interior is unmistakably GTS. Driver and passenger sit on Alcantara seats with a new stitching pattern, and the Sports seats Plus with GTS logos on the headrests can be adjusted electrically and provide increased lateral support and comfort. Other features include brushed, black anodised aluminium trim strips on the instrument cluster, as well as a high proportion of Alcantara, which can be found on the steering wheel rim, centre console and armrests.

The new 911 GTS models are available to order now and prices start from BD48,300.

Call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911.

March 2017 67

motoring

EK KANOO

Fiercer than Ever

This popular sedan has undergone an impressive overhaul both inside and out, offering more power and enhanced safety features.

68 March 2017

The 2017 Toyota Camry GL and GLX are back with a distinctive vibe that makes an immediate impression.

The aggressive sport mesh front grille gives a subtle hint to the power at the driver’s disposal.

The state-of-the-art cockpit is designed to not only look great; it is incredibly user-friendly and its stylish finishes add to the sporty ambience. The GL and GLX both offer ample interior space and the ergonomically designed seats provide added comfort on long drives for all occupants.

When it comes to on-board tech, this model sets the bar for its segment. The front and rear sensors come as standard in the GL while the GLX has an additional back-up camera. The GLX also contains a 6.1-inch touch display with Bluetooth connectivity and USB and AUX inputs. The GLX includes a cruise control system for added comfort on long drives.

Under the bonnet, the Camry GL boasts a powerful 2.5-litre, four-cyclinder engine that produces 178bhp, while the GLX delivers 181bhp. Both are paired with a six-speed electronically controlled transmission and electric power steering, which makes for a smooth drive.

And, when it comes to the drive, the Camry is out to impress. Its handling stability improves drive and traction at normal speeds and allows for superior straight-line control over rough or uneven roads, its makers say.

Both the GL and GLX have top-of-the-line safety features to ensure passengers are protected at all times. They include a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, which alerts the driver in case of low air pressure in the tyres.

The Vehicle Stability Control System – fitted as standard – ensures better traction and grip on turns or slippery surfaces. Other safety enhancements include ABS brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, and Brake Assist, which generates a larger braking force when used in an emergency.

From its practicality to its high-quality entertainment system, the Camry has all the requirements and features of a family car – with an additional hint of fun.

Call 17 730-730. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Top management and officials at the launch

EURO MOTORS

Sleek Sedan Makes Debut This seventh-generation model was launched during a special event at the marque’s Bahrain showroom.

Euro Motors, the Kingdom’s BMW Group importer, unveiled the eagerly anticipated new 5 Series in spectacular style in the presence of top company officials and invited guests.

The luxury sedan cuts a sporty, stylish figure and features enhanced dynamics, a new lineup of assistance systems and a new operating system. With a revamped design – both inside and out – it delivers higher levels of efficiency, comfort and performance, its makers say.

The BMW EfficientLightweight design concept, with increased use of aluminium and high-strength steel, reduces the weight of the vehicle by 100 kilograms. There are also various chassis options such as Integral Active Steering, which can now be teamed with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.

Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors, says: “We are thrilled to have the new BMW 5 Series available in Bahrain. We are confident that our customers will enjoy the elegance, aesthetic appeal and the driving experience it delivers. Euro Motors has gone from strength to strength in the Bahraini market, continually delivering exceptional customer service and offering the latest models from the BMW Group. Now, with the BMW 5 Series, we have another strong www.bahrainthismonth.com

product for those seeking a unique combination of luxury and performance.”

The car also includes a wealth of assistance systems, offering the driver support at critical moments and less demanding ones, such as slow-moving traffic and monotonous stretches of motorway.

It is fitted as standard with a stereo camera, which teams up with optional radar and ultrasound sensors to monitor the area around the car. New features include Lane Change Assistant and Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection.

Autonomous driving is a fantastic feature that could soon be commonplace in many vehicles and the BMW Group is making huge strides in this area. The new 5 Series has extended functions for the optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) system steering and lane control assistant. These include adoption of speed restrictions; which drivers can select as part of the Speed Limit Assist option. From 0 to 210kmph the car assists with distancekeeping, accelerating, braking and lane control. This increases comfort significantly – in particular at low speeds and in slow-moving traffic. The intelligent Auto Start Stop function now adjusts its responses to the route and traffic conditions and therefore offers even greater driving comfort.

The new BMW 5 Series is fitted with the latest-generation iDrive system. In top

specification, it displays navigation, telephone, entertainment features and vehicle functions on a high-resolution 10.25-inch screen. The system can be operated using the iDrive Controller, by voice command or gestures, or by touching the display controls directly.

The latest-generation full-colour Head-Up Display has a projection surface that is 70 per cent larger than before and displays traffic signs, telephone listings, radio stations, music tracks, navigation instructions and warnings from the assistance systems.

There’s no doubt that cars are getting smarter and this model is a good example of the recent leaps in technology. Many BMW ConnectedDrive features are combined with new services, including the new ParkNow technology for digital parking space reservation and payment, the On-Street Parking information for intelligent parking space search function and the optional Parking Assistant, which detects empty spots and parks the vehicle automatically. Plus, the Microsoft Exchange service now enables Microsoft Office 365 users to sync emails, calendar entries and contacts and edit them inside their car.

Two petrol variants are available, working in tandem with either rear-wheel drive or BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.

Prices start from BD20,995.

Call 17 750-750.

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motoringnews&launches

Innovation through Every Generation

Range Rover has released an animated short that marks its many impressive milestones over the years.

The two-minute feature shows how today’s models retain many of the original design cues and culminates with a look at the latest derivative, the SVAutobiography Dynamic.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover chief design officer, says: “Range Rover has achieved iconic design status through a progressive evolution of its unique DNA, concluding in a vehicle of peerless distinction. From its sense of evolution and sophisticated sensibilities inherent in its interior design to its understated yet powerful exterior proportions, Range Rover stands alone. There’s simply nothing else like it.”

Since 1948 Land Rover has been manufacturing authentic 4x4s that represent true ‘breadth of capability’ across the model range. Defender, Discovery, Discovery Sport, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque each define the world’s SUV sectors, with 80 per cent of this model range exported to more than 170 countries.

The marque has achieved more than a million sales since its launch and that number continues to grow.

A New Arrival It’s been redesigned, revamped and re-launched to critical acclaim. Yes, the new 2017 Subaru Impreza has arrived.

One of the highlights of the new model is Subaru’s Global Platform architecture, designed to deliver higher levels of driving agility, increased protection against crashes and increased ride comfort. The technology will be the underpinning platform in a variety of upcoming Subaru vehicles.

The Impreza is a great example of the marque’s new design language, which sees the body sleeker and stronger than ever. In fact, structural rigidity is up by 70 per cent and there is a 40-per-cent improvement in crash energy absorption – compared to the outgoing model.

Available in two variants, the Impreza 2.0i and 2.0i Sport come as four-door sedans with a revised version of the four-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine that now gains generates 152bhp.

The Sport version features 17-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension and Active Torque Vectoring, exclusive exterior styling and upgrades such as an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system, keyless access, push-button start, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to name but a few.

Visit Motorcity showroom in Sitra or call 17 736-222.

Customer Satisfaction

Special Offers Available

National Motor Company, the distributor of Honda vehicles in Bahrain, received the Japan Automobile Manufacture Association (JAMA) No. 1 Customer Satisfaction Index Award 2016.

To determine the winner, JAMA interviewed 100 random customers from several automotive Mr Barakat dealerships in Bahrain. There were several evaluation points that dealers went through in order to determine their position, such as: service initiation, service reception, service advisors, in-service experience, pick-up of vehicles after service, service quality, service cost and vehicle quality.

Mohammed Ajmi Khan, national service manager at National Motor Company, received the award on behalf of the company.

Ramzi Barakat – general manager of National Motor Company, says: “It is a great honour for National Motor Company to receive this award.”

First Motors, the distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Kingdom, has launched new packages and offers to make buying a vehicle even easier. These offers include free insurance and free registration, along with lifetime warranty and a free service package of up to 40,000kms or two years.

Ahsan Chishty, general manager of First Motors, says: “It brings me immense pleasure to be announcing the roll out of this wonderful new campaign as it exemplifies everything we at First Motors stand for, the provision of world-class vehicles at the most affordable prices accompanied by the most beneficial offers.”

70 March 2017

The campaign extends to the assertive and sporty 2017 Elantra, the iconic Sonata and the heritage-rich Azera.

The offers also apply to the new sub-compact SUV, the Creta, which delivers a dynamic design through its strong body structure and smooth drive that demonstrates world-class quality at an affordable price, the company says.

Call 17 121-121. www.bahrainthismonth.com

A World of Elegance Comfort & Luxury For Reservations Call: +973 17295555 www.frsanpalacehotelbh.com email: frsanpalacehotel@gmail.com

furnishings&fixtures

what’s in?

This year sees old favourites being relegated to the back benches. The new look is more edgy, earthy and colourful.

Size Whether your home is bijou or palatial, the size and proportions of your furniture and furnishings does matter. Last year’s bulky couches, beanbags and poufs are out, making way for minimalistic furniture that is compact, with clean lines. The IDdesign showroom in Sitra is one of the largest furniture shops on the island and has a mind-boggling variety of seating options in its various style guides to choose from.

We’re on the verge of spring, so our thoughts are veering towards fresh ideas for the home, whether it’s a complete interior overhaul or a mini facelift. Look around you and see if your furniture and fixtures look tired and ‘last year’.

If yes, stand up and take notice of some basic design elements to play around with to make your home on-trend for 2017.

Colour 2017 introduces us to ‘Greenery’, Pantone’s colour of the year. Giving a nod to new beginnings, this lively verdant shade infuses spaces with a sense of revival and reminds urban animals to breathe deep, rest and rejuvenate amidst the hectic pace of life. It will also transition well between the seasons over the 72 March 2017

movement, ushering in more colour. Already splurged on an icy toned living or sleeping area? Don’t fret; just inject some earthy neutrals such as off-white, beige or even taupe to thaw the appearance and cut the starkness.

Jewel tones have also hit the jackpot at the start of the year, as most designers have employed deep shades of berry, onyx, sapphire and citrine to add character to their spaces.

coming months.

This hue is one that fits easily into various combinations – be it with neutrals, brights, pastels or metallics.

An interior trend that has enjoyed its crest in the last couple of years is the all-white look.

This year, however, waves adieu to the

Textures & Prints Gone are the days of subtlety and symmetry.

Contrary to popular belief, you can’t make a room look ‘too busy’ with a mix and match of textures and prints. Think plush velvet sofas or headboards with large stitches, paired with throw cushions dressed in silk, linen or plaid. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Pleating, folds, chunky wool or tropical prints are ideal for soft furnishings.

If you’re not for buying big pieces of furniture at the moment, spruce it up with a mix of pillows, throws and bolsters in different fabrics and colours. It’s all the better, if you’re willing to go bold and place contrasting prints and patterns together.

If you think your surfaces could do with a lick of paint, think out of the paint box. Wallpapers have made heads turn this year – with new and varied finishes and whimsical prints. A hot design trend that has made its way onto our walls is faux marble wallpaper. Looks expensive, but is easy on the pocket and a breeze to maintain.

Another emerging development is for the paint-splattered look. Add to walls, floors, floor coverings or bed and bath linen for a style that’s right on-point.

Metallics A much-loved favourite in 2016, copper is still in style. Though golden hues are here to stay, bronze is the new metallic lending panache to interiors these days; but be careful not to go for in-your-face shiny. A matt finish makes for elegant trimmings in the kitchen or bathroom and on vases, pendant lamps or ornamental bowls. It’s also the time to mix up your metals.

Add silver or nickel into the mix for an up-todate look.

Casa Cucina in Seef is a new home décor store that is fast gaining fame thanks to the latest, elegant and durable decorative pieces it offers islanders. You’ll find all manner of fashion forward offerings on its shelves.

Keeping it Natural If there’s one trend that’s stuck this year, it’s the earthy look. Grainy wood, jute, cane and rattan are big stars this season to lend the home a rustic, yet breezy vibe.

Storage The emphasis continues on clutter-free surfaces; especially in utility-filled rooms like the kitchen, laundry and storage. Make your walls work for you. Instead of having different cupboards and cabinets all over the place, build a master storage from floor to ceiling as a one stop-shop for putting away and retrieving things. It’ll free up the rest of the room for an open, airy feel.

Factors that allow more light functionality and smarter storage are important in these spaces.

Those who spend considerable amounts of time doing the laundry or cooking meals deserve a space they can feel good in while they work.

Go Tech Technology is taking over the home, big time.

Warming drawers and voice assistants are catching on with residents in the West. While it may still take a while to reach our side of the world, cosy up on one of the technologically sound massage chairs from Osim at Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro. These lure you to sink into them for endless hours of customised comfort.

THE ART OF HOME HYGGE This may raise a question mark in most minds. Hygge (pronounced Hoo-gah) is the Danish concept that points to cosy, comfortable living; probably how the Scandinavians get by during their harsh winters. Hygge is a mood, or a feeling, that is brought on by fluffy blankets, warm knits, shag rugs and comfortable furniture.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 73

furnishings&fixtures YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

To Fall in Love With What if you could have a massage every day of the week in the privacy of your own space? This trusted brand can make it possible.

How perfect it would be to get a relaxing massage whenever you wish, at home! Gift yourself, or a special one, some tender, loving care after a hard day’s work. Osim’s uLove chair is known to give a great massage to soothe a tired body and bring instant relief from stiff, sore muscles.

The uLove experience is parallel to none, with its innovative technology that can immediately put the most wound-up of us at ease. It combines a pampering massage, intelligent features and an aesthetic design to deliver an exceptional experience that satisfies the senses.

The chair’s intelligent features have the ability to hit all the right spots from head to toe.

With fantastic options that can be easily customised to suit individual preferences, it is little wonder that this magic chair has garnered rave reviews.

By simply connecting the chair to your smartphone via Bluetooth, it can download the latest lifestyle massage programmes for you to try out, making it family-friendly. Four of your favourite programmes will appear on the top of a list for quicker selection and easy navigation.

Users of uLove can enjoy the most dynamic massages, each with seven levels of 3D selection at the shoulders, lumbar and posterior. It’s also possible to customise the pressure intensities for optimum enjoyment and effectiveness. uLove’s shoulder detection feature, activated at the start of every automatic massage programme, assesses your unique physical build, ensuring that your body benefits from the full curative effects of the session.

The foot massage unit can be extended to fit each user’s unique height, providing perfect kneading each time. For greater convenience, the uLove can recall the preferred settings for up to three different users.

This chair comes with comprehensive safety features. The backrest will stop reclining upon detection of any object in its path and the footrest will also stop retracting when it senses any obstruction beneath it.

With just the touch of a button, you can also adjust the chair to your desired position; Upright for greater space saving, Comfort for an optimal massage experience or the Zero-Gravity position for a deeper rub down and total relaxation.

The uLove not only feels great, but its sleek design also looks beautiful anywhere it’s placed. It is trimmed with sophisticated chrome details, and the quilting and perforation of the upholstery is intricately woven to achieve the best durability and quality.

The uLove’s footrest can be fully retracted under the seat to enable more living space, or flipped over to rest your legs as an ottoman.

The remote control is within easy reach during use and stows away neatly thereafter.

Once you are in the tranquil seat of the uLove, its ear-shaped upper arm massage unit allows you to retreat into the privacy of your own space to relax and unwind with the winning combination of a massage and your favourite tunes.

Osim’s uLove massage chair is available in Bahrain at Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro.

Call YBY Fakhro on 17 408- 111 or Osim (Seef Mall) on 17 581-331.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

Part of your daily life.

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

furnishings&fixtures

IDdesign

Scandinavian Style Sense This brand offers a functional and durable range of furniture and accessories; from the opulent to the minimalistic. All will make heads turn.

The sprawling IDdesign showroom at Bahrain’s Sitra Mall is a homeowner’s dream come true.

If you have a particular idea for your residence in mind, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here. But if you are unsure of the style or look you’re aiming for, this is the perfect place to get started.

With 7,000sq/m of striking colour combinations, unique decor accessories and myriad furniture designs to select from, this mammoth showroom is a veritable playground for anyone looking to set up a new pad, redecorate an existing interior or simply stroll around, soaking up some fantastic inspiration.

With its roots set in Denmark, IDdesign has scattered its classy Scandinavian flavour in homes and offices across the Middle East and Europe. Its franchise in Bahrain is proud to be the biggest furniture store on the island.

The three style groups that are a trademark of IDdesign are Modern Classic, Nordic and Elegance. You can see these displayed throughout the showroom and they can be easily implemented in any home.

76 March 2017

Modern Classic is all about solid monochromes with metallic accents. Think emerald green, steel grey, sepia and charcoal, offset with shiny metal, glass, marble and brass. Geometric art deco forms break the seriousness of the look, and dark wood with clean lines adds an air of contemporary sophistication to the overall expression.

If you prefer a light, modest style, whose beauty lies in its simplicity, then go Nordic. This theme swings from clear, crisp and transparent to deep, darker tones of azure. Cool, icy blues blend perfectly with cobalt and navy. Light wood, ceramics and textured fabric are characteristics of the central idea. Combined with a hint of silvery bling, they’ll leave you feeling far from blue.

Elegance is a new-age version of old-world charm. With just the right dash of femininity, the

concept engages shades such as pale rose, dusty grey, taupe and indigo as well as hearty burgundy to add a serene feel to your environment. Silk, satin, beaded and velvet textures lend romantic warmth, all while enhancing soft silhouettes and refined details.

For those who like to veer off the mainstream, Kare, IDdesign’s affiliated home decor brand, is where you can spend hours marvelling at the ingenious pieces of furniture and accessories that will add a mischievous spin to your living spaces.

Kare gives you the creative licence to be eclectic, bohemian, rustic and vintage. Jazz up your rooms with interesting miscellanies with an industrial touch. Each of the pieces available here is like a work of art, be it the furniture up-cycled from old Indian wood or the chandelier of assorted pendant lamps that are a riot of cheerful colour. Earthy tones are brightened with handcrafted details and expressive patterns, making your home a living, breathing entity.

With something to appeal to diverse tastes and inclinations, the brands boast superior products with prices commensurate with the high standards of quality on offer.

Call 17 732-919. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sitra Mall ‫مجمع سترة‬ Tel : 1773 2919

www.iddesign-bahrain.com

furnishings&fixtures CASA CUCINA

Stylish Home Store This new venue provides all you need to keep up with the latest home styles.

Casa Cucina, home and kitchen collections, offers astounding creative designs inspired by the latest global trends. The store opens up a new world to decor enthusiasts with an extensive range of products which will truly enhance your home and kitchen.

The company specialises in providing innovative home items and kitchen collections of superior quality across product ranges such as dinnerware, glassware, cutlery, cookware, tableware and decorative items – such as statues and figurines – vases, candles and other household accessories.

Casa Cucina is always on the lookout for new creations to ensure customers are provided with the most stylish high-end products. A visit to the store will enable you to make a remarkable impression on your office, home or kitchen, with a selection from the distinctive collections available.

Casa Cucina, home and kitchen collections, is the latest offering from Kumar’s Group, a well-established organisation which has been based in the Kingdom for more than four decades.

Visit the showroom in the heart of Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

Call 17 840-707 / 17 296-363.

African Cup Screening

Monica, Maya & Mina

Reena, Nada & Mohammed

Coral Bay held a screening of the Africa Cup of Nations at its premises.

Zainab, Osama & Hisham

Eyaz, Janet, Abdulrahman & Marwa

Hisham & Heba

Nada

Safa, Noora & Rodaina

78 March 2017

Ayad

Dr Yara, Ahmed & Adam

Tomy & Shadi

Adidi

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bystander

Saturday Brunch

Sofitel Bahrain launched its Anghaam Saturday Brunch at Tapas Bar & La Mer Restaurant.

Ali, Dany Deeb & Sara

Barry & Ket

Omar, Dany Deeb, Joy, Ameer & Krushna

Rashal

Sally, Sidd & Camille

Omar & Mimi

Rumen, Angad & Khaleel

Grand Finale

St Christopher’s School hosted the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME) Young Musicians of the Gulf (YMOG) grand finale 2017 at the Sofitel Bahrain.

Performers at the event

Steven, Lucy, Xiaolin & Isobel

Wendy & Ahlam

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Thea, Lulu & Matthew

Emma & Jim

Kavma, Jasmine & Priscilla

Barbara & George

Ben, Luke & Will

March 2017 79

airconditioningfeature

The Coolest In Town BTM rounds up the latest offerings and special promotions from the island’s leading AC providers.

Despite the recent rain and plunging temperatures, the Kingdom’s residents remain steadfast when it comes to their love for air conditioning. No matter the weather, most people can’t seem to get enough of that refreshing gusty goodness.

Gajria Electronics is the distributor for Chigo and Nikai products. The store, located at Al-Alawi Complex, stocks 1.5 ton to 3.0 ton window and split air conditioners. Gajria has some special offers in the coming months and plans to launch new products.

Yateem Air Conditioning in Manama supplies Carrier and Climatic products. The units are efficient in high ambient temperatures and contain new environmentally friendly gas. The company has a full range of products that include split, package, ducted and chiller systems.

Awal Gulf is the distributor for Peal air conditioners and has showrooms in Sitra and Hoora. The products are built for the GCC climate, boast excellent performance at high temperatures and meet the statutory requirements of the Bahrain Government.

Awal Gulf is currently having a clearance sale, so head down for special offers on a number of units.

AJM Kooheji Group, the dealer for LG, is a one-stop shop for all your air conditioning needs. With showrooms in Sehla, Manama and Arad, the right product is never too far away. LG has the complete line of air conditioners from 18,000 British thermal unit (BTU) – a traditional unit of heat – up to 36,000BTU.

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One of the bestselling products is the Titan air conditioner, which has an outdoor unit that enables it to perform in tropical regions.

There are also smart AC’s with interactive technology. The new DualCool inverter models (which will soon be available in Bahrain) can monitor the status of the air conditioner and diagnose problems by connecting it to a smartphone via a SIMs (Smart Inverter Monitoring System) module.

On a global scale, there are big changes coming soon that will dramatically impact how air conditioners are produced and used. A deal has been reached by more than 150 countries to limit the use of greenhouse gases in what the UN has called “the largest breakthrough since the Paris climate change agreement”.

Representatives from over 150 countries met in Rwanda recently to discuss reducing the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) – a gas used in air conditioners and refrigerators, which are regarded by many as some of the fastest-growing environmental pollutants in the world.

Winding down the use of HFCs will start in 2019 for most of the countries involved in these talks, with China beginning to reduce their use by 2024 and others, including India and Pakistan, by 2028. Some campaigners have said this initiative is equal to stopping the whole world’s fossil fuel emissions for more than two years and claim it will reduce the temperature of our climate over time.

This decision is massive news for the manufacturing industry and, of course, for the air conditioning sector.

It means we can expect to see huge changes in the way our cooling systems work, with improvements to their environmental impact and functionality. www.bahrainthismonth.com

AWAL GULF

An Extensive Range This leading company provides a number of products and services to ensure customers are always cool.

Awal Gulf is a homegrown air-conditioning, refrigeration and original equipment manufacturer for a number of multinational brands, including Aqua Chill, Frizcool, Universal Air, Marshal and Pearl.

Awal Gulf offers an extensive range of products, from single units of 0.75 ton of refrigeration (TR) up to 100TR. It provides custom-built units of more than 100TR capacity as well.

Among the company’s line-up of units are window air conditioners, mini-split (wall, ceiling, floor-mounted, cassette and freestanding), central package, ducted split and double-skin air-handling. Customers can also find chilled water fan coil units, variable multi-split units, heat pump chillers, dedicated fresh air units, roof tank water coolers and chest freezers.

Other products include chillers, custom-built double-skin air handling units and high energy efficiency ratio ACs that use environmentfriendly gas. Awal Gulf also undertakes turnkey central air conditioning contracts and has been involved in a number of prestigious projects across the Kingdom.

The company complies with any product and process conformity requirements in accordance with the different national and international standards using the latest technologies.

In February 2016, Awal Gulf declared its energy efficiency in compliance to the standard authority in Bahrain. By July 2016, it was the

first to launch residential products that adhere to the country’s regulations (Window 8.5 EER and Split 9.5 EER). These energy-efficient products also conform to IEC safety standards and comply with G-Mark requirements. Being a socially responsible company, Awal Gulf took this as an opportunity to develop the new lineup of models using Green Refrigerants (R410a).

The company’s entire service team has been well trained to meet the requirements of the new process.

Call 17 738-404 for the Sitra showroom and 17 570-357 for the Hoora showroom.

Enhanced Performance High Energy Efficiency Lasting Endurance Room Air Conditioners Split Air Conditioners Roof Top Package Units Central Ducted Splits Air Handling Units Heat Pump Chillers Roof Top Water Tank Coolers Chest Freezers Vege Coolers

Corporate Head Office: Tel: 17 738333 - Fax: 17 731529 - Sitra Showroom: 17 738406 / 17 738404 - Fax: 17 456535 Hoora Showroom: Tel: 17 570357 - Fax: 17 530358 - Customer Service: Tel: 17 738400 - Fax: 17 736546 P.O. Box 15919, Manama, Bahrain- agmco@batelco.com.bh - www.awalgulf.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

@awalgulfmanufacturing @AwalGulfManufacturing Awal Gulf Manufacturing

March 2017 81

bystander

Seef Bahrain held a culinary demonstration and food tasting event with three star Michelin chef Culinary Demo Swiss-Belhotel Jean-Paul Bostoen as part of its French Week activities.

Alexandra, Jean Paul, HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre & Herve

Silvia, Ires & Jill

HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre & Francois

Fish for Fun Yateem Centre held a Fish for Fun promotional event at its premises in Manama.

Management and guests at the event

New Car Launch Motorcity Bahrain debuted the 2017 Subaru Impreza during Subaru’s annual Middle East and Africa distributors meeting.

Management at the launch

Igor & Sooraj

Waleed Kanoo & Hani

82 March 2017

Hassan, Ali & Hassan

Charlie & Manaf

Tomohiro, Mizuma & Maeda

Eliane & Yousra

Ivy & Maricel

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airconditioningfeature GAJRIA ELECTRONICS

Unbeatable Offers

This company has a sterling reputation for its wide product range and friendly and professional customer service.

Gajria Electronics is one of the Kingdom’s most popular suppliers of air conditioning products and, with summer right around the corner, it’s the ideal time to invest in a quality unit.

The store, located at Al-Alawi Complex, stocks Chigo and Nikai products, which meet the highest standards and are G-Mark certified. The latest arrivals boast multi-fold evaporators – which help with heat exchange, power saving and accelerate the cooling process – self-diagnosis, auto control and intelligent defrosting.

Chigo’s state-of-the-art technology has won over customers with its high quality cooling capabilities and environmentally-friendly performance.

Among its many attainments, Chigo is certified by IS0 9001 quality management and has ISO 14001 environment management certification.

A company spokesperson says: “Our brands are mostly sold to residential places and corporate offices. Chigo has its own set-up of

www.bahrainthismonth.com

manufacturing and research and development and has now become a trusted name in the air-conditioning industry. The product, price and services offered make it a lucrative proposal.”

All you need to do is choose the product you want and Gajria Electronics does the rest – from delivery to installation and after-sales service.

Whether you want an air conditioner for the home or office, the company provides competitive pricing. It offers attractive discounts for big orders on a case-by-case basis and customises to buyer’s requirements.

Call 17 555-616.

March 2017 83

fashionss17feature

SS17

LIZ O’REILLY As the new season’s fashions arrive in the stores, we take a look at what’s hot for spring and summer 2017, and there are a few surprises along the way.

FIRST LOOK

Pull & Bear

Dune

Kenzo

Carolina Herrera

Zadig & Voltaire

80s REVISITED It’s the return of ‘the decade that style forgot’ with a penchant for 1980s-style high-shine fabrics, super-wide belts, oversized earrings and skyscraper heels – in fact, it’s a nod to excess all the way.

Shoulders were wide at Kenzo and Marc Jacobs, while Carolina Herrera went for a classy take on the trend and high street brands Dune, Pull & Bear and Zadig & Voltaire are among the many who have adapted this look.

If you’re not quite ready for the full-on tin foil look, grab a jacket or bag and add big earrings and shiny heels to make the look work for you.

Marc Jacobs

Mango

Paule Ka

Givenchy

Paul Smith Parfois

Desigual

BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL There’s nothing like sunshine to bring out the brightest colours and this was a hot trend seen on the SS17 catwalks. A range of jewel-brights in fabrics went from clingy to floaty. Colour blocking is certainly nothing new but the sheer range and zinginess of the hues on show at Givenchy, Paule Ka and Mango, among several others, means this is going to be our brightest season in a long time.

Team them with eye-popping accessories from jewellery to bags, scarves and chunky platform sandals to bring your look bang up to date. Surely, the return of fluoro can’t be far behind?

84 March 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Desigual

Etro

FULL-ON FLORAL Flowers never really go out of fashion but this year has seen a real resurgence in the trend, with catwalks overflowing with blowsy blooms from giant poppies at Alice + Olivia to acid brights at Michael Kors and a full-body print version at Desigual.

Save the look from becoming too girly with a masculine jacket or over-the-top sunnies and heavy shoes or boots.

Purification Garcia

Paul Smith

FOREVER BOHO Not really a new trend but rather an enduring favourite.

Festival style was much in evidence on the spring summer catwalks, with a flavour of pretty much anything goes. Etro and Desigual mixed ethnic patterns with floaty fabrics and statement necklaces, while Paul Smith went for cookie shapes in clashing patterns.

Get the look with a Bohoinspired tunic over ripped jeans and add fun shades along with rope-soled sandals to display your eco cred.

Michael Kors

Weill

ba&sh Desigual

H&M

Mango

Vincci Alice + Olivia

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March 2017 85

fashionss17feature

Set for Summer CENTREPOINT

Sparkle with style inspiration from this brand’s spring-summer collection. Strike a pose and make your mark with fashion in the latest trendy looks. to add a Bohemian look to bags, such as tropical skins and cross-body bags. Choose from a range of fashionable accessories to complement your summer look with the lighter tones of Swarovski crystals and pastel scarves.

A simple natural glow is the look of the season with a signature red lip to add glamour.

Lifestyle has a range of matt, glossy and frosty shades to suit every woman’s style sentiment.

As the weather turns warmer, eyes are bold and bright, emphasising the power of colour in a glossy texture and finish.

Women This season, Splash’s collection sees a return of nautical styling with a new twist in colourful stripes seen in both an optical rearrangement and in the classical nautical style. Shapes are contemporary, offset by a romantic pink palette that’s dominant in major collection pieces.

Distinctive styles with dreamy blossoms in berry and citrus tones feature alongside cooler shades of aqua, lavender and lilac.

Key details include delicate long lines, feminine ruffles and shoulder focus. The athleisure trend of previous seasons continues with urban sporty silhouettes adopting the nautical theme.

Pretty feet are showcased in a range of brightly coloured and floral-printed sandals.

Wedges are still in style with feminine pearl details. Comfortable sneakers, beautiful ballerinas and stiletto-heeled sandals all feature in the selection from Shoe Mart.

Lifestyle brings you a collection of sporty and earthy tones as well as joyful, feel-good brights 86 March 2017

Tots and Teens Mothercare has a pretty palette for the princess in every little girl. Salmon rose, neon pink and yellow, bright regatta blue, Irish green, softer bird’s-egg green and crystal rose are infused through the collection. Peasant blouses, pretty sports shorts, plush-textured and mesh-bonded jerseys and statement printed empire-waist dresses are the collection highlights with scalloped edges, graphic embellishment, patchwork and Havana tile patterns featuring strongly. Barbie-themed style remains a favourite with little ladies this season as do Disney themes and Hello Kitty looks.

The athleisure trend dominates the boys’ collection at Mothercare with key pieces including loose-fit pants and volume shorts.

Collarless shirts, ringer tees, retro knit polos and resort sets help dapper tots and teens get spring-summer-ready. Bright aquatic greens and blue are the highlights of the colour palette along with earth brown and flaming orange.

Men Splash’s menswear range showcases key themes of ‘90s’ nostalgia with Soft Grunge, Military Mania, and Indigo & Beyond. The collection is inspired by 1990s’ graphic styling teamed with modern minimalism. The military look has also emerged as a staple after its resurgence as a strong trend over the last few seasons. Denim stays strong with shirts and jackets in a colour range that includes blue and grey. The collection palette consists of cobalt blue, blazing yellow, black and military green, offset by subtle shades of desert pink. Key pieces include waterfall shrugs, drop shoulder tees and printed waistcoats.

Men can shop from a range of trendy springsummer footwear. With a collection of smart and comfortable sandals, high-top sneakers, formal leather loafers and casual canvas slip-ons, Shoe Mart has all the shoe staples covered.

Homes Lifestyle brings you a selection of tasteful and elegant home décor products. Inspired by architectural elements and fragments, new products include flower vases, bathroom accessories and scented candles. The collection incorporates floral patterns with a combination of modernist styles that will fill your home with summer’s relaxed vibes all year round.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

JUICY COUTURE

LA Style

The latest offerings from this glamorous, irreverent and fun lifestyle brand bring a taste of the Golden State to our own golden island.

Call City Centre Bahrain on 16 639-809 and Al Aali Complex on 16 639-810.

Juicy Jewels Expect the unexpected as the brand adopts a little Middle Eastern heritage to feature the hamsa-style eye on pretty ribbon pendants, while earrings cleverly give the impression of multiple piercings, with a row of striking gold orbs, and a classic ruler is turned into a bracelet to declare ‘Love Rules’.

Juicy Fun The humble rucksack gets a Juicy makeover with floral motifs and gems or monochrome graffiti bearing the legend ‘Love Glam’. For a little sprinkle of that glitter, check out the mini-biker key ring or the woven purse that stands out with stud detail.

Juicy Gear Always at the forefront of new trends, the brand showcases the latest, shapeenhancing, high-rise jeans alongside more studs, this time on oh-so-demure pastel shirts. Top these with American retro jackets for a pop of campus style. www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 87

fashionss17feature RAYMOND

Seasonal Colours This gentlemen’s outfitter introduces its latest spring-summer collection.

Do you know summer only for the yellow of the sun? Or spring by the green of the flowers and forests?

Have you ever thought that the white of the sands and the turquoise of the ocean wouldn’t be as pretty if summer didn’t transform the wide sky to that perfect powder blue?

Have you ever witnessed the summer sun turn the human race into a beautiful melee of tan and tawny rose?

Have you seen the colour of summer-joy? The colour of blush in the smiles around you?

Have you seen the colour of sundown? The deep plum of red grape at summer brunches?

Have you seen the shimmering glow of a bonfire on a quiet, dark beach? Have you ever stayed awake on a hot summer’s night to see the red rays of dawn pierce into the pitchdark of a starless summer sky?

Have you ever seen the true colours of summer?

Presenting the spring-summer collection from Raymond. The true colours of summer, now in store.

Kumar’s WLL represents Raymond with two showrooms at Exhibition Road and Al Hadrami Road, Manama. The third grand showroom, is now open in Seef, offering premium suiting fabrics along with a made-to-measure concept.

Visit the shop at Seef District, opposite Starbucks, The Courtyard.

Call 17 840-506 /17 296-363.

Saleh, Hatem, Hesham, Bader & Maotaz

Gassan & Joelle

Musical Concert

As part of the Shop Bahrain Festival in cooperation with Rotana, a concert featuring artist Husain Al Jasmi & Asma Lamnawar was held at ART Rotana Amwaj Islands.

Asma Lamnawar performing

Anwar, Muna & Abeer

Khadija, Naeema & Eman

88 March 2017

Yousif & Saad

Maryam, Victoria & Angie

Abdul Rahman & Aoss

Rawiya & Fatima

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jean-Paul, HE Domenico Bellato, HE Simon Martin & Sophie

Nadeem & Christian

Farewell Reception

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain held a farewell ceremony for general manager Christian Zandonella, and introduced the newly appointed general manager, Jean-Paul Dantil.

Christian & Jean-Paul Mufeed Rajab & Soufiane

Rahim, Samy & Christian

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sadiq Dawani & HE Vagif Garaev

Nasser Al Arayedh & Jean-Paul

Zee & Ghizlane

Pierre, Jan, Anna & Panos

March 2017 89

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

DJI Osmo Mobile

Punkt. MP01 The more our phones do, the more they demand of us.

Sometimes it’s good to take a break. But until now, the only alternative to using your smartphone has been the kind of phone you find at the back of a drawer. The Punkt MP01 is a stylish, well-crafted mobile phone with a focus on simplicity.

Make phone calls and send texts. That’s all.

Available from www.punkt.ch

The Osmo mobile allows you to make videos that you shoot on your smartphone look more smooth, professional and ready to share. You can use intelligent functions to track your subject, capture stunning motion time lapses and ensure that your video doesn’t look shaky!

Available from https://store.dji.com/ product/omso-mobile-silver

CardBuddy Deluxe We take our phones everywhere we go, and the need to take an extra wallet or card case can be a hassle to remember. With the CardBuddy you can take everything you need wherever you go!

Available from www.cardbuddywallet.com

Seek Compact Thermal Image Camera Have you ever wanted to add thermal imaging capabilities to your phone? The Seek Compact Thermal Image Camera lets you turn any iPhone or Android smartphone into a thermal imaging camera. This could be an excellent way of determining and identifying machines which have a possibility of overheating so you can get them out of your house or office.

The camera captures over 32,000 temperature data points and uses infrared technology, which means that you can use it at night or during the day.

Available from www.thinkgeek.com/product/jgqs

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Misfit Ray The ultimate in wearable technology, this gadget will help you to reach your health goals and stay motivated 24 hours a day. The minimal and versatile tracker monitors your steps, distance, calories burned, activity and sleep duration and quality. Pair up with your smartphone via Bluetooth to receive vibration alerts for calls, texts and alarms, as well as controlling the camera and music on your phone.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

March 2017 91

music

Lupe Fiasco – Drogas Light What’s the story?

Lupe Fiasco had a turbulent 2016. Fans couldn’t have been faulted for unfollowing the rapper’s social media accounts and simply conducting periodic checks for new music. Within eight months, Lupe intended to release three LPs by year’s end but regretfully announced that the works were held up by clearance issues, and then, after a line from a stray upload caught the attention of the Anti-Defamation League, he fired off a vehement defence that closed with “I’m officially not releasing anymore music. The albums are cancelled.”

However, this sixth album from the American rapper has finally materialised.

Worth a listen?

The scope of sounds and guest performers suggests that this album’s delays might have been due to the effort required to put it together. Long-time studio associates Soundtrakk and Simon Sayz are among the producers, as are some established veterans, such as Streetrunner, and comparatively new collaborators.

Its high points are reached on a pair of collaborations with Ty Dolla $ign: NGL, all tensed-up didactic fire, and the looser Kill, packed with a smooth sway.

Another standout is Tranquillo, where Lupe is in prime personal development mode. Almost all the memorable moments occur during the first 10 cuts, as the latter sequence resembles a ‘see if it sticks’ track dumpage. It at least ends positively with a gospel-imbued number that beams with pride and gratitude.

The range in quality indicates that superior work is in reserve.

Verdict: Mediocre output that should’ve been kept

on the shelf

Shorts

Sallie Ford – Soul Sick

Elbow – Little Fictions

The Sadies – Northern Passages

Soul Sick is the second solo album from Sallie Ford, who delves right into personal territory here, a move that is slightly telegraphed by the album’s title. Throughout the album, she sings about loss and anxiety – issues that are common to many – but her songs offer a specific, personalised spin on these troubles.

Similarly, Ford’s music is idiosyncratic and surprising, fusing together elements of the past and present. There are hints of girl groups, rousing soul ballads, galloping rockabilly, even swirling wah-wah psychedelia – all sounds that sit nicely on this impressive album.

Arriving three years after their last album, Little Fictions showcases a different but eminently recognisable Elbow. Seven albums into their career, Elbow remain a deliberate, contemplative group, but this effort feels optimistic. This shift is evident in the music, which is lighter on its surface and complex at its foundation. The band emphasises electronic rhythms, sometimes even conjuring a groove, yet they still find space for chiming guitars, such as All Disco, which sounds like R.E.M. doing their best Velvet Underground impression. All of it adds up to an album that feels quietly hopeful, making it a tonic for troubled times.

The Sadies have a knack for creating a powerful atmosphere in the studio, but the best moments on Northern Passages suggest they’ve been channelling the golden days of ‘70s radio. Echoes of the beautiful but moody sounds of Gordon Lightfoot, the Poppy Family, and the Bells float through these songs.

They’re most audible on low-key tunes like Riverview Fog and The Good Years, but even when the band cranks up the amps on Another Season Again, the pins-and-needles feel of the wind across the prairies is somewhere in the background.

92 March 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games Review Game: Resident Evil 7-Biohazard Rating: OOOOO Verdict: A terrifying, suspenseful horror experience.

What is it?

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a survival horror video game developed and published by Capcom. It is the 24th entry in the popular franchise and follows Ethan Winters as he searches for his wife Mia, which leads him to a derelict plantation inhabited by the Baker family. Ethan makes use of weapons and tools in the fight against the Baker family and creepy creatures known as the ‘Moulded’.

Gameplay:

Resident Evil is back on form after a couple of shaky main entries.

The shift to a first-person perspective brings back the feeling of true survival horror, as the focus is on building suspense and tension rather than straight-out action and explosions.

Furthermore, the return of classic gameplay elements such as healing herbs, inventory managing, item boxes and puzzle solving is welcome proof that stripping down to the essentials to create atmosphere is often a better alternative than going bigger and louder.

When the pace is ramped up, the game doesn’t dip, as a variety of meaty weapons pack a punch to equal the score against your rabid foes.

Nioh

Players traverse war-torn Japan as William, a blonde-haired swordsman, uses his background as a fierce warrior and his seasoned knowledge of the blade to allow him to survive in the demon-plagued land of the samurai. Known as Yokai, these demons inhabit a number of dangerous locations and lie in wait in the shadows to ambush unsuspecting victims. Players will also face off in supernatural sword battles and intense, multi-target engagements offering a level of difficulty that will truly test even the most hardened samurai’s skills, patience and strategy.

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Graphics:

The Baker house is a superb setting, with creaky floors, flooded basements and a variety of secret passageways which may or may not contain foes waiting to frighten the life out of you.

There are some truly gruesome, gory scenes that are deliciously delightful, but only for adult eyes. The shift to a first-person perspective heightens the rumbling sense of dread and makes you nervously do the occasional 360-degree spin to make sure you aren’t being followed.

Sniper Elite 4

Set in the aftermath of its award-winning predecessor, Sniper Elite 4 continues the series’ World War Two heritage by transporting players across the beautiful Italian peninsula, from sundrenched Mediterranean coastal towns to colossal Nazi mega structures, daunting forests and giddying mountain monasteries inspired by Monte Cassino.

Covert agent Karl Fairburne must fight alongside the brave men and women of the Italian Resistance to help free their country and defeat a terrifying new threat with the potential to halt the Allied fightback in Europe before it’s even begun.

Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue

Serving as an introduction to Kingdom Hearts III as well as bringing a blockbuster entry in the franchise to PlayStation gamers for the first time, Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 includes a remastered version of Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance as well as two new Kingdom Hearts story chapters.

The main attraction here is Kingdom Hearts 0.2: Birth by Sleep – A Fragmentary Passage, which is a new playable episode that links to the story of the upcoming major entry, played from the perspective of Aqua. www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

Polynesian Lunch Site: https://framesynthesis.com/ drivingsimulator/maps/ Rating: OOOO

VERDICT:

Trader Vic’s, on the occasion of its anniversary, held an exclusive press conference and Polynesian lunch for members of the press.

Marc, Randa, Marise & George

A fun driving simulator using real roads.

What is it?

This is a 2D driving simulator that draws its surroundings based on Google Maps. Drive on streets you’ve always wanted to with this tool. The only catch is, you must obey the rules and drive on the roadways only.

The Good

Peter Seely & Wolfi Malik

Rhet & Raquel

If you ever wanted to go on a road trip through rural America or explore South American cities, here is your chance. You can take the wheel and go wherever you like as long as Google has mapped the road. You also must drive according to local laws and regulations, which not only improves your driving but gives you a fascinating insight into foreign driving systems.

The Bad

The userface is difficult to understand at first, and there isn’t a proper tutorial to teach you how to drive. It takes a bit of fiddling and experimenting before you can head on your merry way. It would also be cool if there was a 3D version using Google StreetView, but alas you’re stuck with the overhead view and pretty poor graphics.

Maria, Dianelys, Peter Seely, Johnny & Elizabeth

www.boredpanda.com Bored Panda is the place you want to be when you want to discover interesting and visually appealing content. It’s a blog that publishes regular updates on the coolest finds in travel, photography, illustration, animals, DIY, technology, design and all sorts of other great categories. You can also create an account to vote posts up or down.

Ladies Night

Sofitel Bahrain held an Anti-Valentine ladies night at its premises.

www.oddee.com

Love weird stuff? Then check out Oddee, one of the web’s largest and most popular platforms featuring crazy, strange, and bizarre content that you probably won’t find anywhere else. Posts feature photographs and videos, and categories include art, signs, places, objects, ads, science, medicine, home design, names, people, gifts, stories, tech and more. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sarah, Karina & Lyn

Radhika & Jayati

Ritu & Junuraka

March 2017 95

apps

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

What is it?

Colorfy is one of the most popular adult colouring books available. Just pick your colour and tap the section you want to fill in. It’s a relaxing app and enjoyable to watch a design just fill up with colour over time as you make it yours. If you want more, you can subscribe through an in-app purchase to get more designs every week, so you have an infinite supply of designs to colour and share with friends.

The Good:

The app comes packed with tons of different flower and mandala designs to colour, and there are a lot of different hues to choose from. There is also an option to save an image so that you can come back to it later, and a colour editor so you can try different shades without having to get your eraser out!

App: Colorfy Rating: OOOO Verdict: A simple-to-use and fun time-killer.

App: Best Corny Jokes

Whether you love them or hate them, this app is full of corny jokes. When looking at all of the different jokes, you can save them to access later. You can even share them with your friends through messaging, email or Facebook. It’s a great app for people of all ages if they need moments of levity.

96 March 2017

The Bad:

Unfortunately, the only designs are flowers and mandalas. With so much scope for colouring, it’s a bit disappointing that there aren’t more everyday objects to draw. It can get repetitive colouring in the same type of design over again.

App: Hook

Hook is a meditative and calming puzzle app that can kill either minutes or hours of time depending on how ‘hooked’ you get. Tap on circles to reel in their lines and create new pathways for the other lines. It’s minimalistic, but deceptively difficult. www.bahrainthismonth.com

movies

Season

VERDICT:

PRESENTS

A musical voyage, both uplifting and heartbreaking.

stival olor Fe

2017

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Film: La La Land Rating: OOOOO Directed by: Damien Chazelle Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, John Legend

The Plot:

Mia, an aspiring actress, serves lattes to movie stars in between auditions and Sebastian, a jazz musician, scrapes by playing cocktail party gigs in dingy bars. However, as successes mount, they are faced with decisions that begin to fray the fragile fabric of their love affair and the dreams they worked so hard to maintain for each other threaten to rip them apart.

Worth Watching?

La La Land is a joyous film-going experience, which will threaten to reinvent the genre and kick-start a new interest in the art form. It’s a musical brimming with optimism and tragedy in equal measure, while also acting as a homage to a bygone era of Hollywood.

Through stunning cinematography and beautiful song, the movie finds balance in the whimsy of pursuing your life goals and the reality of living a fulfilling life, and doesn’t try to portray a fairy tale. Instead, it’s a love letter to those who dare to follow their dreams and to the city that’s built up and shattered so many of them.

Expect this to clean up at the Oscars.

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The Space Between Us

In this interplanetary adventure, a space shuttle embarks on the first mission to colonise Mars, only to discover after take-off that one of the astronauts is pregnant. Shortly after landing, she dies from complications while giving birth to the first human born on the red planet – never revealing who the father is. Thus begins the extraordinary life of Gardner Elliot – an inquisitive, highly intelligent boy who reaches the age of 16 having only met 14 people in his very unconventional upbringing. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rings

Julia becomes worried about her boyfriend, Holt, when he explores the dark urban legend of a mysterious video said to kill the watcher seven days after viewing. She sacrifices herself to save her boyfriend and in doing so makes a horrifying discovery: there is a ‘movie within the movie’ that no one has ever seen before.

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Games

Stall

The Urban Dhaba Restaurant. Adliya

March 2017 97

bystander

Roopesh & Yamada

Mahmood & Ali

Hesham & Yousif

Ahmed Al Aali & Anna

Venkatesh & Abdul Rahman Janahi

Khayam & Ameen

Kooheji Group opened its new Yamaha New Showroom AJM Motorcycle Showroom in Ma’ameer.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Abdul Jabbar Kooheji, Basem Al Dhaen & Omar Kooheji

Fakhro Hassan & Khalid

Master Chef Final Cucina Italiana held the grand final of its Italian Master Chef season 4 competiton at its premises in Juffair.

Participants and guests at the event

Paolo

98 March 2017

Manuel

Shahzad

Haya

Laura & HE Domineco Bellato

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jean-Paul, Soufiane & Hermes

Josie, Marise & Lia

Grand Opening

Gallery 21, a high-class complex of multiple top brands, held its exclusive grand opening ceremony at its premises in Adliya.

Daniel & Wolfi

Maryam & Munther

Seryan & Semeen

Safa & Roya

Franchisco & Luico

Dina & Jihad

Deborah & Peter

Huda, Muhra & Yousif

Carlos & Paola

Susan & Maitland

Shannon & Nicole

Sterling & Iman

Dip & Dine Atiram Premier Hotel held its weekly Friday Bubbly Brunch at Wembley.

Ved & Om

Aishah, Rachel & Arthur

Maria & Mazen

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Alexander & Tina

Dee, Sian & Deborah

Nicky & Bill

Dan & Simone

March 2017 99

bystander

Wedding Celebration Bikky and Rakesh Chopra along with Mithu and Kartick Misra hosted a party to celebrate Tanwee and Kanbeer’s first wedding anniversary at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay. Adideb, Deesha,Tanwee, Mithu, Kartick, Rakesh, Bikky, Sonia, Kunal & Kabeer

Wedding at Phuket

Kabeer & Tanwee

Kabeer, Vikram, Tanwee, Prachi & Meher

Anne, Tanwee, Mithu, Kabeer, George & Kartick

Dana,Tamara, Deesha, Yashmin, Kartick, Rafed & Adideb

Tanwee & Adideb

Babu, Tanwee & Reene

Kunal & Sonia

DJ Daman Sardar

Shaila, Rekha, Rita, Beena, Anju, Seema, Indu, Saroj & Kanika

100 March 2017

Dr Tagreed & Mohd Mustafa

Dushyant & Sandhya

Manoj & Ipsa

Navin & Punia

Anwar, Tanwee, Kabeer & Dina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

buffets&brunches

FOOD GALORE! Buffets and brunches are a favourite hang-out with many islanders thanks to the ample range of lip-smacking food, long leisurely conversations with friends and, of course, the entertainment. Read on to find some of the best venues to exchange your money for some serious calories.

Crowne Plaza Bahrain La Mosaique hosts a savoury French buffet every Monday for BD14.500, an unlimited steak night every Wednesday for BD21.750, and seafood galore every Thursday for BD20.550. Indulge in Indian delicacies at Spices Indian restaurant every Friday evening for BD10.300. A Friday brunch is hosted at all the hotel’s food and beverage outlets every weekend for BD35 per person.

Call 17 531-122.

The Domain Bahrain Hotel and Spa Le Sauvage offers a wonderful Friday brunch with a buffet that includes hot and cold entrĂŠes including, foie gras on brioche, live quesadilla and shawarma stations and traditional Arabic mezes and several other delights. It is priced at BD19++ or BD27++ with beverages.

Call 16 000-000.

Downtown Rotana Explore diverse cuisines every Friday from noon-4pm at Flavours on 2 for BD21++. Delight your palate with unlimited sushi paired with the scintillating beats of a saxophonist at the Sushi and Sax night every Tuesday from 6pm-10pm.

Call 13 119-999.

ART Rotana Enjoy a wide variety of flavoursome curries and tandoor grills every Monday from 7pm onwards for BD20 per person. A fabulous sushi repast and fivecourse tasting menu awaits you every Tuesday for BD21. Feast on a bounty of delicious Bahraini seafood

www.bahrainthismonth.com

with live music at Choices Terrace every Thursday for BD25 and enjoy the popular Friday brunch from 12.30pm onwards for BD34. Every Saturday is the Italian brunch at Rosso from noon for BD24.

Call 16 000-111.

The K Hotel Immerse yourself in a hearty American gastronomic experience every Monday with various specialties for a special price of BD6++ all month. Take your pick from the colourful fare of Latin flavours every Wednesday at BD6++ per person and savour a special seafood night on Thursdays for BD12++. The popular Friday brunch is priced at BD16.5++.

Call 17 360-000.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa A lively Friday brunch is hosted at Saraya, The Wok and Fiamma for BD36++ with selected drinks from 12.30pm-4pm.

Call 17 636-363.

March 2017 101

buffets&brunches The Gulf Hotel Bahrain The Baker Street Brunch is held every Friday from noon to 4pm at Sherlock Holmes for BD25 per person. Starting from March 10, indulge in unlimited Oriental fare at Royal Thai every Friday night.

Call 17 713-000.

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Brighten up your weekend with the Chocoholic Friday Brunch at Al Safir restaurant, with a special ‘buy one, get one’ offer this month. It is priced at BD28 without or BD34 with selected beverages. Thursday BBQ Night by the pool starts at 7.30pm, and also has a ‘buy one, get one’ offer for BD25.

Call 17 533-533.

Golden Tulip Bahrain The hotel’s all-day diner, Al Wasmeyyah hosts a Seafood Night for BD18.200 every Thursday and the delightful Friday Family Brunch starts from noon and runs to 4pm for BD21.800.

Call 17 535-000.

Ramada Bahrain The hotel serves a wholesome breakfast buffet from 6am-11am daily for BD6.200++.

Call 17 742-000.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay The Bahrain Bay Kitchen serves lavish culinary offerings every Friday including five unique food stations serving Arabic, Western, Indian, Japanese and Chinese delicacies for BD27++ per person. The Saturday Brunch is priced at BD18++ with Arabic specialties from 12.30pm.

Indulge in Wolfgang Puck’s favourite dishes at the CUT brunch every Friday from 12.30pm for BD29++. Enjoy mouthwatering Asian selections at re/Asian Cuisine every Saturday for BD19++.

Call 17 115-500.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain A bountiful Friday brunch is hosted at La Med for BD35 with soft beverages, and BD45 with selected beverages.

Call 17 580-000.

Royal Golf Club, Bahrain The jazzy à la carte brunch is back every Friday at Links from noon to 4pm for BD30 per person inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

Call 17 751-266.

Ramee Rose Hotel A sumptuous breakfast buffet with 18 dishes is priced at BD5.5 per person at Rauchi. A seafood brunch is held at the same venue for BD7 with soft drinks or BD16 with select beverages.

Call 17 616-167.

102 March 2017

Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands Citrus has several tempting options to choose from. Relish in seafood delights every Thursday from 7pm-11pm for BD12++ or celebrate the weekend with the Friday brunch from noon to 4pm for BD12++. Go on a culinary journey around Italy every Saturday for BD10 per person.

Call 16 000-099.

Swiss-Belhotel A pan-Asian dinner buffet specialising in Vietnamese cuisine is held every Thursday at Swiss Café from 7pm onwards for BD16 inclusive of beverages. A seafood lunch buffet is held every Friday from 12.30-3.30pm for BD12 per person.

Call 66 310-000.

Atiram Premier Hotel For just BD19, you can indulge in an array of international cuisines including live cooking stations, carvery, salads and much more at the Friday bubbly brunch.

Call 33 640-009.

Le Méridien Bahrain City Center A Friday brunch is held at Baharat from 12.30pm-4pm for BD22 with soft beverages.

Call 17 171-000.

Special Mother’s Day Brunches for the month of March Crowne Plaza Bahrain From March 15-21, all mothers get a 20 per cent discount on their bill from noon to 11pm at Waves Seafood Restaurant and Spices Indian Restaurant.

Call 17 531-122.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay A Mother’s Day brunch will be hosted at Bahrain Bay Kitchen on March 17 from 12.30pm-3.30pm for BD27++ per person or BD37++ inclusive of beverages.

Call 17 115-500.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain A sumptuous buffet with delicious culinary delights will be hosted at La Med on March 21 from noon to 3pm for BD14++.

Call 17 586-499.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Celebrate Arabic Mother’s Day with a feast at Zahle Lebanese Restaurant on March 21.

Call 17 713-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

GOLDEN TULIP BAHRAIN HOTEL

All Under One Roof

Strategically located on Old Palace Road facing the World Trade Centre and within walking distance from Bab Al Bahrain Souq, this five-star hotel offers fabulous dining and entertainment options.

With several restaurants, a sports bar and a nightclub, The Golden Tulip Hotel is an ideal choice for a quick business lunch or a rendezvous over coffee.

The hotel’s all-day diner, Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, offers sumptuous buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as an extensive à la carte menu to suit every palate. Set meals are priced at BD8.500++ for breakfast and BD10.500++ for lunch and dinner. It also hosts the Seafood Night every Thursday from 7pm-11pm, and the Friday Family Brunch from noon to 4.30pm.

For the month of March, a Tartine Delight Spread Sandwich promotion, priced at BD6 with one beverage, runs throughout the day. Savour exquisite cuts and breads topped with cheese and a special sauce to complement the flavour.

The Cavalry Club Sports Bar is ideal to enjoy a relaxing evening while listening to music or watching sports on TV, while the Platinum Nightclub is the go-to spot for partygoers offering regualarentertainment.

Kei, one of the island’s favourite ethnic-style Japanese eateries, has a variety of dishes including teppanyaki, sushi and sashimi.

Guests can also sample culinary delights from Lebanon, at Mawal Restaurant, offering a set menu along with live entertainment.

Catering services with set or tailor-made menus are available for all occasions to suit your preference and impress your guests. The hotel also prides itself on having the best room rates for executive floors rooms with added benefits.

In conclusion, the Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel is the ideal choice for business and leisure travellers, with newly designed deluxe rooms, excellent food and beverage offerings and activities, the best five-star rates for the executive floor rooms and the friendliest friday family brunch in town.

Call 17 535-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 103

bystander

The Bistro Relaunch

The Dilmun Club relaunched The Bistro at its premises.

Satheesh, George, Anne & Mark

Peter

Lynda

Simon & Steve

Blood Donation

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain and Salmaniya Medical Centre coordinated a blood donation event at the hotel’s premises.

Mahjoob, Faisal & Esra

Nidheesh & Rejo

Mohammed, Isa & Mahmood

Mohammed & Sayed Hussain

Shaimaa & Islam

Ani & Ryza

guitarist Jason Carter brought together the pearl divers from Dar Burshaid and Shabab Al Hidd and flute player La Fontaine Concert British Ahmed Al Ghanem for a concert at La Fontaine.

Jason Carter with the pearl divers

Salomon, Anna & Lydia

104 March 2017

Jason & HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre

Latifa & Khalid

Nick & Helen

www.bahrainthismonth.com

buffets&brunches ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL

Friday Fun This upmarket sports bar at a four-star hotel in Juffair has introduced Bahrain’s favourite weekend activity to its offerings.

Wembley at the Atiram Premier Hotel has become a staunch favourite among partygoers and revellers ever since it launched on Bahrain’s nightlife scene.

Now, for just BD19, you can indulge in an array of international cuisine including live cooking stations, carvery, salads, pasta, seafood grills, desserts and much more at the Friday bubbly brunch.

Atmosphere throughout the day is provided by one of the most exciting live acts on the island, UK-based trio Old Street Blues, who keep guests entertained with contemporary R&B and classic hits. Try your luck at karaoke and groove to the tunes of local favourite DJ John till the early hours.

Besides this, Wembley also provides the perfect ambience to catch your favourite sporting matches on a grand scale with multiple large TV screens.

Chow down on delectable burgers and spicy Buffalo wings while enjoying the charged ambience.

The venue has a contemporary decor accompanied by a spacious outdoor terrace with projector screens and stage area for live entertainment throughout the week.

BTM Ad_Wembley_125mm x 191mm.pdf 1 1/26/17 The menuPremier offers pub bites, soups, sandwiches and steaks cooked4:40 to PM

your preference, with the attentive staff tending to your every need.

Wembley is open from noon to 2am daily.

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

Call 33 640-009.

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March 2017 105

DINING

AMBROSIA FROM INDIA PUJA TIWARI This culinary gem in Adliya’s vibrant dining district never fails to please with its mouthwatering array of authentic Indian food.

L

antern’s Lounge and Restaurant is a firm favourite with diners across the island thanks to its scintillating menu selection and charming ambience.

As soon as you enter, you’ll swear you’ve somehow been transported to India. The decor is rustic yet sophisticated, with colourful elements adorning the walls and upholstery.

Typical decorations include clay and copper pots, hanging lamps and old-style hinged window shutters.

The Adliya branch is hip and contemporary, with an indoor lounge, restaurant and outdoor garden bar. A rooftop lounge with the concept of a gastropub is also set to open soon.

The menu boasts a variety of traditional vegetarian and non-vegetarian sub-continental fare, with a great selection of soups, starters, salads and, of course, main courses.

With such a wide variety of options, choosing between them can be a challenge but, 106 March 2017

thankfully, the friendly staff is always eager and willing to help. My dining companions and I settled on the Maharaja Feast – a set menu tailor-made for a group of four or more people – priced at a respectable BD10.5++ each.

If you’ve ever dined at Lanterns, you know that the light and crispy poppadums they serve are probably the best in town. We polished them off in a couple of minutes and resisted the temptation to order more before the rest of the food arrived.

Within a few minutes we had a massive plate of grills on the table with pieces of chicken kebab, beef, fish tikka and lamb. The plating is impressive – presented on a mini barbeque pit to keep it warm till the very end.

Richly marinated and cooked to absolute perfection, they are succulent and moreish.

The salad that came along was a zesty, refreshing accompaniment, complementing the grills.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 112 A DELIGHT FOR THE SENSES 116 TABLE HOPPING

If you are a curry lover, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to the main courses. We were presented with four robust dishes – lamb rogan josh, butter chicken, dal and a mixed vegetable curry served with biryani – more than enough to fill us up.

The aroma of garlic and butter naan filled the air and the table fell silent as we tucked into the food. Every dish was a palate-pleaser so I couldn’t possibly pick a favourite.

For dessert, we went with Indian dumplings in sugar syrup (gulab jamun) and a large slice of creamy cheesecake, simply delicious.

This ever-popular franchise also has branches in Budaiya, Juffair, Riffa and Durrat Al Bahrain. Besides Indian cuisine, the Juffair branch offers a wide variety of Chinese food.

If you appreciate quality fare and impeccable service, Lanterns is the place to be.

Call 17 246-777. www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining MAKI

A New Addition Due to popular demaind, this famous Japanese restaurant’s New Year’s set menu is here to stay.

When was the last time you enjoyed a 10-course meal prepared by an award-winning chef? No matter what your answer is, Maki assures us you would not want to miss its tantalising set fare.

“We have been doing extensive research into the most recent trends, exotic ingredients, and wholesome global cuisine. Having proven to be a huge success on New Year’s Eve, we have decided to make this menu one of our special offerings,”explains Amer Zeitoun, co-founder, agricultural and nutrition expert, and managing partner residing in Bahrain.

Throughout the past 14 years, the fine-dining restaurant’s menu has evolved from the original contemporary Japanese dishes created by Amer and his founding partner, older brother Mohamad (Oliver), to more imaginative, contemporary chow centred on delicious, healthy eating.

Mouthwatering creations include the Fusion Temaki, a tasty soy roll filled with tempura prawn, veggies and Maki’s special sauce and the kurogome or black rice with tofu.

“We have always had the desire to share a superior multi-course menu with our fans, in order to showcase the abilities of our creative chefs.

Further, we wanted our guests to feel special because of our attentive hospitality and come back for yet more of our innovative dishes,” explains Amer.

Awarding Ceremony

Kurogome Tofu Teppanyaki

When asked for a sneak peek, Amer explained that they are introducing an exotic Okinawan Salad with purple potatoes and Asian spice dressing, as well as the Lobster Green Bisque, comprising the famed Canadian lobster with a chef special bisque sauce.

Book your journey into the world of high cuisine in the newly remodelled dining area.

Call 17 522-733.

The Rotary Club of Sulmaniya held an awarding ceremony for the people who contributed to the success of its green house project.

Members of the club and guests

Jano, Amira & Mohammed

Chrysanthos

108 March 2017

Jamil

John

Faisal Juma, Andrew & Garfield

Costas

Jafar

Virendra & Khalil

Isa

Hassan

Wael

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining THE FOUNDRY

Gourmet Haven With its alluring atmosphere and ambrosial gastronomy, this chic restaurant deserves a top spot on your list of places to eat.

The Foundry is the latest culinary experience brought to you by the founders of Sage and Sirloin. It is a casual fine-dining restaurant, nestled in the bustling heart of Adliya, boasting a lounge, restaurant and a rooftop terrace that’s set to open soon.

True to its name, the decor adopts an industrial feel, with iron and brick fixtures.

The simple but tantalising menu does not disappoint, respectful of the quality and freshness of local and regional products while offering the best of American barbecue, French bistro and English gastro pub style.

Seasonality is a big factor when it comes to choices offered, and the premium steaks, burgers and fresh seafood will leave you spoilt for choice.

During the week, the lunch menu is a great respite for the hungry businessperson in a rush. With daily specials, there is nowhere better to entertain your colleagues and clients. Weekends are filled with a dynamic crowd enticed by the signature cocktails created by the head bartender, lively music and a mouthwatering specials board.

On the weekends, a menu consisting of roast lunch and cool beverages makes for the perfect meal.

Open from noon to 2am, any time is a good time to pop in and enjoy a bite and a refreshing beverage.

Call 69 960-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 111

dining

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

A Delight for the Senses Indulge in authentic Tuscan cuisine at this beautiful five-star property as it hosts a special culinary festival this month.

112 March 2017

Delight your palate with Italian fare as the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa introduces ‘The Love of Tuscany’ fiesta from March 8-18.

The ancient flavours of the Etruscan people, rooted in Tuscan cuisine, are to be showcased in a food festival at Fiamma restaurant delivered from the gastronomically passionate hands of executive sous chef Manuelo Pintore.

Tuscany, the birthplace of the Italian language, is located in the central-western part of the country and, as with all Italian cuisine, the most fresh and simple ingredients of the season are used to present authentic dishes that are rich in flavour, hearty and filling. All are served with unsalted regional bread used to soak up the leftover sauces on the plate.

This tradition has been carried through generations and now marks Tuscan bread as different from that of other regions.

With more than 20 years of professional cooking and kitchen management experience in restaurants and five-star properties in Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia, chef Manuelo first started his career in La Capannina di Sante in Florence. He then ventured into international waters taking the chance to work with chefs from across the world, expanding his culinary passion and knowledge.

Manuelo’s love for his homeland is only beaten by his other great passion – food. He still draws inspiration from his Tuscan roots, often choosing traditional Italian dishes, and always is in search of

new ingredients, cooking techniques and trends.

Food connoisseurs are invited to experience his passion for themselves at a truly unique à la carte dinner being served nightly during the festival from 7pm-1.30am. Entertainment is also provided nightly.

Perched on the pristine beach of Zallaq overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Sofitel Bahrain is a spectacular seawater spa hotel and resort that blends French art de vivre with traditional Bahraini style. Its 262 luxurious rooms and suites boast balconies with picturesque, panoramic views.

Arabian interior design and a luxurious colour palette combine with elegant, dark hardwoods, creating an inviting contemporary oasis. The hotel is reminiscent of a precious shell beside the cerulean ocean, curving gently around the white sand bay.

Glide across the polished marble floors of the lobby and feel your eyes being drawn to the alluring potted palms and exquisite Dilmun artworks. Enjoy a taste of the two countries’ dual heritage with a complimentary Arabic coffee or a French macaron from the patisserie.

Amid palms and pristine beaches, an indulgent spa awaits. Enjoy speciality cuisine at Fiamma, Tapas, Pashawat, Wok and Saraya or catch up with your dear ones over drinks at Amber.

A stunning ballroom and private island are ideal venues for hosting large corporate events and weddings.

Call 17 636-363. www.bahrainthismonth.com

WOK STATION

Street Treats from the Orient This Southeast Asian eatery deliciously blends authentic local cuisine with casual dining.

Bringing the zest of Asian street food to Bahrain, Wok Station at the swanky Galleria Mall is turning out to be the hottest ticket in town.

This home-grown restaurant sports a trendy, offbeat ambience and uses high-quality, healthy, farm fresh ingredients to offer a menu inspired by cuisines from China, Japan, Korea, Burma and Thailand.

“Wok Station is here to satisfy Bahrain’s craving for bold flavours, new experiences and dining convenience,” says chef Chen, who has designed the menu.

The kitchen uses fresh produce, delectable aromatics and exotic spices to create everything from flavourful wok preparations to delicate dim sums, thereby fulfilling the restaurant’s mission to encourage and support local farmers and communities.

The unique and interactive ‘Create Your Wok’ menu allows guests to create their own meal, wherein they can select their preferences from

www.bahrainthismonth.com

the many available choices and watch it come alive in the open kitchen.

The à la carte menu ranges from soups, salads, appetisers and dim sums to signature woks, desserts, beverages and a premium selection of teas. Food connoisseurs can try chef Chen’s personal favourites from the exclusive Chef’s Special menu. Kids have a selection of their own comprising delicious dishes and refreshing beverages.

The look and feel of Wok Station, with its open-plan kitchen, recreates the experience of dining in a bustling Southeast Asian marketplace. Neon mood lighting and abstract graffiti add to the casual vibe, which continues on the upper level.

The restaurant can seat up to 115 guests; ideal to host small gatherings, celebrations or corporate events.

Call 77 570-570, visit www.wokstationme. com or follow Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @WokStationME.

Chefs in action at the open kitchen

March 2017 113

dining CAVALLI CAFFÈ

Special Cakes for Special Mums Celebrate the most important woman in your life with a treat from this fashion-favourite eatery.

This month we have not one but two Mother’s Days, the Bahraini event on March 21, followed by the UK celebration on March 26. No matter when you choose to honour the special woman in your life, Cavalli Caffè, at Al Aali Shopping Complex, is the ideal place to make her feel extra special.

With its plush, designer-led surroundings, this gorgeous venue imparts a sense of occasion to every visit with a range of foods almost too beautiful to eat. We all know our mums are already sweet but who could resist adding a little extra sugar in the shape of Nerona – Nocciolina choco mousse wrapped in dark coverture, spicy banana wafers and poached pear, or La Palma, a sugary

date pudding with vanilla bean ice cream and toffee sauce.

If you want to really impress, go for the Frozen-inspired tiramisu, which really does epitomise the definition of eye candy, or a mouthwatering traditional strawberry gateau mounted on a base of embossed Cavalli chocs.

The caffè is also the only place you’ll find the designer’s world-famous haute couture chocolates – handmade in Tuscany and beautifully presented in Cavalli’s signature animal print boxes, they’re the perfect gift to let your mum know just how much you care.

Both cakes and chocolates are available to order for takeaway, so you can spoil your mum in her own home, and there will be an extra-special cake selection available to mark Mother’s Day. Call 77 788-877.

40th Anniversary DHL Express held its 40th anniversary celebration at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Nour Suliman & Khalid Almoayed

Turgay, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Wolfgang

Nawaf Al Zayani & Mazin

114 March 2017

HE Ahmed Rachid Khatabi & Faisal Al Hajjami

Ronnie, Emad, Ali & Khalifa

Amal, Abdulwahab, HE Dhafer Al Umran, HE Suha Ibrahim Al-Far & Jihan

Debbie & Mohammed

Basil & Silvia

Majda & Nisrin

Zuhra, Nadia & Hind

www.bahrainthismonth.com

䈀愀栀爀愀椀渀

䈀愀栀爀愀椀渀Ⰰ 刀椀礀愀搀栀Ⰰ 䨀攀搀搀愀栀Ⰰ 䴀椀愀洀椀Ⰰ 䘀氀漀爀愀渀挀攀Ⰰ 匀愀椀渀琀 吀爀漀瀀攀稀

tablehopping

JAZZ IT UP Due to popular demand, the Royal Golf Club’s jazzy à la carte brunch is back every Friday. Diners can enjoy a fabulous array of tasty dishes delivered freshly cooked to their table while enjoying spectacular golf course views and a live performance of contemporary jazz and blues from Ahmed Al Qasim. It is hosted at Links restaurant from noon to 4pm and costs BD30 per person inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

I Call 17 751-262.

CULINARY FIESTA

The second edition of the Bahrain Food Festival at Bahrain Bay runs till March 6. More than 50 prominent outlets are taking part this year, including businesses and concepts related to the food industry such as restaurants, cafés, hotels, nutrition, kitchen appliances and many more. It will take place at Bahrain Bay from 5pm-10pm weekdays and at Block 338 from 5pm to midnight on weekends.

ARABIAN MORNINGS

Saturday – enjoy the breath-taking view and listen to the sound of the waves as you indulge in an extended breakfast and brunch featuring the finest selection of authentic Arabic delicacies at Tapas and La Mer’s Anghaam Brunch. Enjoy the live Arabic vocal melodies and an enchanting belly dance performance. It runs from 11am-4pm, priced at BD25 inclusive of soft beverages.

Call 17 636-363.

FRESH OFF THE GRILL The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain has launched its newest theme night in Silks Restaurant called “Kababna”. The Middle Eastern buffet showcases different types of marinated kebabs that are perfectly grilled, live in the show kitchen. A fresh twist on well-known and well-loved mezes and traditional salads is served both in its original form and with the chef’s special touch. It is priced at BD18.

Call 17 460-000.

A POSH NEW ADDITION

When? Every Monday Event? Desi dish night Venue? Choices Restaurant – ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands Travel through southeast Asia with a huge selection of curries, grills and beverages for BD15 with soft drinks E Call 16 000-111.

When? March 3 and 19 Event? Sato Sushi Sunday Venue? Links, Royal Golf Club Get a 50 per cent discount on a special menu of sushi and maki.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? March 7 Event? Mei Yue Nights at re/ Asian Cuisine Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Authentic Asian street food awaits you for BD24++, 7pm onwards.

E Call 17 115-046.

When? Every Friday Event? Barbeque night Venue? La Med, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Savour an assortment of tender meats, sauces, sides and desserts on the terrace for BD15++ per person.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? Throughout March Event? Jackson Potatoes promotion Venue? Espressamente Illy Café, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Enjoy delicious potato dishes in various ways.

E Call 17 533-533.

Gallery Café, a vibrant eatery merging urban influence and local traditions, has opened in Adliya’s stylish new complex Gallery 21. From breakfast through to late night dining, it offers a range of freshly prepared savoury and sweet treats from its in-house bakery complemented by signature coffees prepared by master baristas. A delectable array of international plates are also available from the à la carte menu, from traditional breakfast dishes to hearty sandwiches and crisp salads through the ‘Flavours of the Orient’ specialities.

Call 17 711-600.

When? March 13-18 Event? St Patrick’s Day Irish menu Venue? Royal Golf Club, Bahrain Sample delectable eats from a special menu and stand a chance to win fabulous prizes.

E Call 17 750-777.

TASTE OF ITALY An Italian theme night is on offer every Saturday at Cirus, the all-day dining restaurant of Ramada Hotel & Suites, Amwaj Islands. Enjoy a selection of pizza, pasta and salads all freshly prepared to tempt your taste buds.

Call 16 000-099.

116 March 2017

When? Throughout March Event? Dine for BD1 Venue? Downtown Rotana Dine at the Friday Brunch at Flavours on 2 or Sushi and Sax Night at Teatro Downtown and the second one will be for only BD 1, subject to taxes.

E Call 13 119-999

When? March 9-13 Event? Holi celebration Venue? Al Areen Palace & Spa Paint the day with colourful memories with a majestic style North Indian menu and a live band.

E Call 17 845-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Two to Tango

What’s New Edited by Behnaz Sanjana

Featuring a redesigned bezel, a guilloché motif and water resistant elements, luxury Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil’s ever-successful Tango collection showcases a new aesthetic with technical lines through the expression of a feminine-masculine tandem.

Multi-facetted and complementary models appear subtly attired in twotone shades combining elegance and functionality.

Available at Asia Jewellers.

Essential Elixir Beautiful, radiant skin is perfectly moisturised and retains moisture despite daily dehydrating factors – ageing, skin type, heat, cold and pollution. The new Hydra-Essential moisturisers from Clarins power the skin’s natural hydration to keep it dewy 24/7.

Available at leading retailers.

Pure and Precious Misaki’s Adore collection brings a touch of Parisian chic to any style. Pearls become contemporary and fashionable in this pure, stylish and refined set featuring the brand’s high-quality handmade X-Treme lustre emulated pearls.

Available at A La Mode.

A New Allure The new Dior Homme Sport is an energising and spicy perfume, which is resolutely seductive and cool. It is composed of fruity-spicy freshness while retaining the woody notes of Dior Homme's identity; its increased potency making for irresistible, peak sensorial pleasure.

Available at Jashanmal.

Peek-a-Boo This open-toed style gives a fashionable update to your regular pumps. The lace and sequinned detailing makes them the ultimate way to walk the walk after sundown, while the heels are just the right height for maximum comfort.

Available at Quiz. www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 117

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A Heritage Collection

This Swiss watchmaker’s latest timepiece, a famous aviator’s watch with its distinctive design, expresses its trailblazing style in chronograph mode.

With its noble bearing and vintage finish, Zenith’s new Pilot Extra Special Chronograph is imbued with the bold heritage of high-flying heroes.

A natural heir to the onboard instruments developed by the manufacture in the early years of aeronautics and known for their precision, sturdiness and outstanding legibility, this chronograph sports the typology of these iconic pilots’ watches. The new ‘Pilot’ features an imposing bronze case with a high frequency El Primero mechanism and a black dial bearing green-emission Super-LumiNova Arabic numerals.

Bronze Fuselage Framing an oversized radiant display guaranteeing peerless readability, the substantial 45mm-diameter case – featuring a large screwed-in crown and ratcheted pushpieces facilitating adjustment with gloved hands – is made of bronze. This highly resistant antimagnetic alloy acquires a natural patina, giving it a unique vintage touch.

Topped by a domed sapphire crystal, the new sandblasted black dial picks up the font of the original, large Arabic numerals, made from 118 March 2017

blocks of white (green-emission) SuperLumiNova SLN C1. The luminous facetted hands sweep over this distinctive watch face, also punctuated by two counters and a railway-type minutes track. The inscriptions ‘Montre d’Aéronef’ and ‘Pilot’ are a reminder that Zenith was one of the first producers of altimeters and cockpit watches at the dawn of military and civil aviation.

Dizzying Mechanism At the heart of its 100-metre case hums an ‘engine’ known for its legendary precision: El Primero Calibre 4069. This high-frequency column-wheel chronograph movement is a descendant of the world’s most accurate series-made chronograph, developed by Zenith and presented in 1969.

Beating at a rate of 5Hz enabling a tenthof-a-second display, it drives the central hours and minutes, small seconds and chronograph functions, while ensuring a 50-hour power reserve.

In a nod to its aviation origins, the solid titanium case-back depicts the plane flown by Louis Blériot when he crossed the Channel in 1909 with a Zenith on his wrist, along with the brand’s flight instruments logo, complemented by a motif inspired by the fuselage of the legendary French pilot’s aircraft.

Built for exploring far horizons, this Pilot Extra

Special is harnessed to the wrist by a khaki green oily nubuck leather strap with beige stitching, rubber-lined and secured by a titanium pin buckle.

It showcases a neo-retro look fuelled by an adventurous spirit. Exactly like that of the aviation pioneers that the manufacture accompanied right from the early days of flight.

Zenith timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

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

ASIA JEWELLERS

InnoVision 2 Launched at SIHH 2017 Specialist watch maker Ulysse Nardin used its debut appearance at Geneva Watch Fair SIHH 2017 to present the InnoVision 2, which boasts 10 sensational innovations.

Ten years after the launch of its predecessor, Innovision 1, this new creation features a range of developments to make it stand out.

The escapement carries out two fundamental tasks in mechanical watches. Firstly, it prevents unrestricted unloading of the spring mechanism. Secondly, the escapement transfers regular pulses to the oscillation system to maintain the oscillations from the balance wheel and the balance spring. The Dual Constant is a sophisticated force escapement. The small pulses that are transmitted to the balance wheel and hairspring are always equal because they are not dependent on the tension of the mainspring. This is made possible by a complex silicium structure with locking elements, which interacts with silicium escapements.

DRIE (Deep Reactive Ion Etching) is the name of the photolithography deep etching process used to produce the escapement element from monocrystalline silicium. A two-part production process is required and the parts are connected by bonding, a process which dates back to 1986.

However, Ulysse Nardin now uses it to manufacture relatively small watch components for the first time. The sealed bond is created by compressing hydrophobic surfaces at process temperatures of between 1,000 to 1,200 degrees Celsius, with the addition of oxygen. What is novel here is that the process creates stable silicium oxide joins, which spread in all directions from the first contact point on the vertical surfaces.

In the InnoVision 2, Ulysse Nardin uses silicium for both the balance wheel and balance spring. It is conducive to facilitating equal mass distribution and is nonmagnetic, corrosion- and shock-resistant and highly flexible despite its great hardness.

The watch’s self-winding mechanism has also been redesigned for efficiency. At the start of the chain of automatic energy generation there is a centrally located ballbearing rotor. Underneath, it has three further small ball bearings, which operate on two pairs of leaf springs in a filigree-shaped structure. The ring attached to this has a total of four springy ratchets. Its small, hook-shaped free end engages with the angular serrated winding wheel centred above the barrel. Each rotation of the oscillating weight makes the structure and the ring oscillate. This www.bahrainthismonth.com

makes one or two of the four ratchets move the winding wheel in the clockwise direction.

Finally, an elaborate, two-stage satellite-reduction gear is needed. This transforms the relatively quick but low-energy actions of the innovative excenter changer into slow, and therefore more powerful, actions capable of tightening the centred mainspring.

In collaboration with the EPFL High School of Lausanne and Sigatec, the company has developed an innovative method for coating silicium with a thin film of sapphire. The InnoVision 2’s elongated centre wheel bridge is made from this combination of materials.

Gear wheels in mechanical movements are conventionally made of brass. This is not so in the InnoVision 2. Ulysse Nardin chose hard gold for these components. If conventional gear wheels interact with steel pinions, friction will occur. Using gold ensures a better and therefore more efficient transfer of force. This has a positive effect on the energy consumption of the whole mechanism and ultimately on the power reserve of the watch.

Ulysse Nardin manufactures the balance cock itself and the entire integrated shock protection system from glass. The system consists of a coil spring held in place by resiliently suspended balance shaft bearings and a height-restricted cover. The bearing returns to its original position without being slowed by friction thanks to this innovative monobloc construction method, as the glass spring simply moves back to its rest position.

Manufacturing the InnoVision 2’s balance cock from transparent glass offered unforeseen opportunities to the engineers and material scientists. During the production of this component, they were able to create delicate channels within it which, are filled with Super-LumiNova to create a luminous display.

The display represents the hours one to 11 first and then those from 13 to 23 digitally. The digits can be read through appropriately shaped apertures. The corresponding printed ring is moved directly by the large barrel. The hours before and after midday appear in the windows in different colours.

And, lastly, a three-dimensional glass sculpture, manufactured using precision laser cutting. To protect the delicate glass creation, it sits on a fine metal plate.

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

March 2017 119

marketplace

Kabayanz

Club XS

RAMEE ROSE HOTEL

Entertainment Galore With a whole range of promotions at top-class leisure outlets, this four-star hotel will keep you coming back for more.

120 March 2017

Surrender your inhibitions and embrace your inner party animal at Club XS, Ramee Rose Hotel, for the ultimate fun experience.

The venue has quickly established itself as a place where the elite meet. “Partygoers are instantly captivated by the cutting-edge, multi-million-dinar design and top-of-the-line technology which boasts a high-energy dance floor with a wall of LEDs complemented by a state-of-the-art sound and light system,” says the hotel’s general manager Ankush Sharma.

Offering a Vegas-style atmosphere, different promotions are available throughout the week including the daily ladies’ night, a buy one and get one free offer, from 6pm-11pm.

Resident DJ Tom Hall is a well-established multigenre musician from the UK and knows how to keep the crowd riveted with class beats and tunes. His creative mixing style, crowd awareness and energy capture the essence of a great night out.

Having played internationally in 2014 at Ayia Napa, Tom has built a following of 20,000 followers on Twitter, 2,000 followers on Mixcloud, and more than 100,000 plays in combination with Soundcloud. He has also played alongside Zanetti and Ko Kane, Nathan Dawe, Joel Corry, Danny T and DJ Stylus.

Sporty Time Café has an array of promotions throughout the week, including a triple happy hour option on beverages from Sunday to Wednesday, from 11am-3pm, and a 20 per cent discount on the entire bill everyday from 3pm-7pm. Order any steak and get half a bottle of house grape.

The exclusive Players’ Lounge offers a private

screening area and personalised service just as if you were in the owner’s box at your favourite arena.

Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a business entertainer or a traveller, the tempting offerings coupled with impeccable service are sure to delight.

“From the captivating allure of its bright modern design, to the attention to detail in the creative menu selections from its live kitchen experience, the café truly raises the bar on your expectations of a sports lounge experience,” says Ankush.

Its huge stadium-like space offers enough room for avid sports fans to get excited while watching their favourite teams on one of the 90-inch LED screens while still allowing diners the intimacy of a cosy restaurant.

The eclectic menu offers a variety of global comfort food, reinvented pub fare and worthy classics, all brought to life through the live kitchen by a team of talented chefs.

Kabayanz has become the Filipino community’s favourite nightlife venue, with plenty of entertainment including a resident band, Insignia, playing funky tunes every night.

Hotelier staff can enjoy a 20 per cent discount on their bill every Monday by presenting valid identification. Travel back in time every Wednesday with beats from the past. Guests dressed in ‘80s costumes get free beverages. Every weekend has a new theme to keep things buzzing and amateur and experienced musicians can show off their skills at the jammers’ night every Saturday, with special prizes to be won.

Call 17 616-167. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

THE DOMAIN HOTEL AND SPA

Feminine Touch This luxury boutique hotel is introducing an entire floor solely for female guests with all the amenities needed for an idyllic stay.

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With more women than ever travelling for both business and leisure, The Domain Hotel and Spa has devised a unique way to cater to their specific needs.

All eight rooms on the 30th floor have been meticulously prepared with women in mind. From fresh flowers to detox water, special beauty products and styling accessories, no detail has been overlooked. There are also other essentials, including curlers, sanitary napkins and nail clippers.

Adding a touch of luxury, sumptuous spa products and mini bottles of bubbly – chosen by the sommelier – are stashed in each room.

“As a corporate traveller, I don’t want to be put near a noisy family or have to look for feminine essentials at the last minute,” explains food and berverage project manager, Drew Blackwell.

To put guests even more at ease, entry to the floor is restricted via the use of a special access card. “What we’re doing is basically providing them a secure place during their stay,” Drew adds.

The staff will be mainly female and the only males who can enter the floor will be authorised by the hotel. “This is something we care deeply about, hence the concept is designed for women, by women,” says marketing and communication manager, Tanvi Bhatia.

A series of events – held in collaboration with fashion and beauty brands – will take place throughout the month to highlight the new service.

The floor will also cater to large affairs like bridal showers or hen parties, with special room rates and services available. “We will also have special promotions linking the ladies-only spa and the floor,”

adds Tanvi. “You will get pretty much anything you need to pamper yourself.”

This phenomenal property has earned a sterling reputation for seamlessly blending luxury, practicality and comfort. It boasts immaculate interiors and breath-taking views of Manama at the Sky Lounge atop the 36th floor.

It has 97 contemporary suites that are each equipped with high-tech tablets that control the climate and lighting options; skyline views and 24-hour room service are available.

The hotel has a plethora of amenities, such as an infinity pool, spa and a fitness centre with Italiandesigned equipment and cutting-edge training gear. It is also home to a myriad of restaurants, which serve everything from Japanese to Mediterranean cuisine, as well as a steakhouse offering the finest quality home-aged beef.

Centrally located in the heart of the business district, this hotel puts guests in close proximity to the airport, museum, shopping malls and a number of restaurants.

Call 16 000-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace

Dr Akanksha Ostwal

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Wisdom Teeth – Not so Clever Dr Akanksha Ostwal, periodontist and general dentist, explains how to deal with troublesome wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth, the third molars, usually start to emerge during late adolescence. Sometimes, there’s not enough room for them, and they come in partially or not at all. This condition can lead to pericoronitis, inflammation of the tissue surrounding the tooth.

When only part of the tooth has erupted into the mouth, it can create a flap of gum tissue, operculum, which easily holds food particles and debris and is a hotbed for bacteria. Pericoronitis can also occur around a wisdom tooth that is still under the gum.

Symptoms include: • Painful, swollen gum tissue in the area of the affected tooth, which can make it difficult to bite down comfortably without catching it between your teeth; • A bad smell or taste in the mouth; • Discharge of pus from the gum near the tooth; • Swollen lymph nodes under your chin (the submandibular nodes); • Muscle spasms in the jaw; • Swelling on the affected side of the face.

If the partially erupted tooth fails to completely enter the mouth and food debris and bacteria continue to accumulate under the gum flap, pericoronitis is likely to return.

Prevention You can help to prevent pericoronitis by practising good oral hygiene on any erupting wisdom tooth to ensure food particles and bacteria do not accumulate under the gum. However, if these steps do not work and pericoronitis returns, it may be necessary to have

124 March 2017

the overlying flap of gum tissue removed, known as an operculectomy, by scalpel or laser. In some cases, the wisdom tooth may need to be extracted.

Treatment Pericoronitis can be tricky to treat because the flap of gum tissue won’t go away until the wisdom tooth emerges naturally or until the tissue is removed. A periodontist can clean the area thoroughly to remove damaged tissue or pus. If the area is infected, you’ll be given oral antibiotics and instructions for keeping the area clean, which is the best way to prevent the problem from returning. This usually involves brushing and flossing daily and rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. This will help prevent food particles from accumulating in the area.

Pericoronitis that causes symptoms should be treated as soon as possible. If it is not, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth. The most severe cases are treated in a hospital and may require intravenous antibiotics and surgery.

When to call a professional / periodontist If you are experiencing symptoms of pericoronitis, make an appointment to see your dentist. If your wisdom teeth are coming in, visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups. During those visits, he or she can check on their progress.

For more information email akanksha.ostwal@bsh. com.bh.

Call 17 812-222. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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marketplace

Dr Pravin Dangle

MIDDLE EAST HOSPITAL

Expert Eye Care When there is a problem with your windows to the world, you want to be in safe and expert hands.

This hospital provides just the required professional care.

The Middle East Hospital (MEH) is a purpose-built private hospital in Segaya with 85 beds, providing a host of medical services to manage various disorders.

The hospital has recently welcomed Dr Pravin Dangle to its ophthalmology department as a consultant.

Dr Dangle has many years of experience in Bahrain and brings his proficiency to complement the able team at MEH. With a sub-speciality relating to medical retina and glaucoma, he is an expert at treating and managing all vision-related problems.

There are many disorders of the eyes that can be tackled with correct, timely treatment.

Diabetic retinopathy is a potentially blinding complication of diabetes that damages the eye’s retina.

It affects half of all patients diagnosed with diabetes.

Although no changes in sight are noticed in the beginning, the condition gets worse over the years.

With timely treatment, blindness can be prevented in 90 per cent of advanced diabetic retinopathy patients.

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can lead to damage of the eye’s optic nerve and result in blindness. According to a study, there will be 79.6 million people with OAG (open angle glaucoma) and ACG (angle closure glaucoma) by 2020 and, of these, 74 per cent will have OAG. Bilateral blindness will be present in 5.9 million people with OAG and 5.3 million people with ACG by 2020. This disorder has no symptoms at first, but over the years it can rob sufferers of their sight. With early treatment, serious vision loss and blindness can be averted.

126 March 2017

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects the central vision. It is a common cause of vision loss among people over the age of 60. As only the centre of the vision is usually affected, people rarely go blind from the disease. However, AMD can sometimes make it difficult to read, drive or perform other daily activities that require fine central vision.

Dry eye syndrome (DES) affects up to 70 per cent of the older population. Associated symptoms include irritation, redness, discharge and easily fatigued eyes.

Blurred vision may also occur. The symptoms can range from mild and occasional to severe and continuous. The condition manifests when enough tears are not naturally produced or when they evaporate too quickly.

Additional specialities that the ophthalmology department at Middle East Hospital deals with include paediatric eye examination with refractive error management and lacrimal duct surgeries.

With advanced technology, Dr Dangle performs eye examinations to help protect and preserve vision for great quality of life.

The hospital has a multi-storey car park with ample space and offers patients the latest in technology and the best attention. MEH provides 24-hour emergency care and is affiliated with many insurance companies.

Call 17 362-233, visit www.mehospital.com or follow on twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ mehospitalb. www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERCOL

Healthy Meals in a Hurry A delicious meal is always appreciated but it often takes a lot of time and effort to prepare.

Luckily, this must-have kitchen appliance takes the stress out of the process.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

If you are looking for a reliable kitchen partner to help you whip up healthy meals in a hurry, you may consider using the new Moulinex Double Force range of food processors. These machines take the time and effort out of common kitchen tasks, such as chopping, cutting, slicing, pureeing, kneading, grinding, grating and shredding.

The Double Force range includes the FP828H, FP826H and FP824H, all of which make light work of any task, with results limited only by the user’s imagination. In a world first, these devices have speed and motor exits, which provide optimal force and speed – depending on the accessory being used.

The FP828H has 31 functions and comes with 10 accessories, including a stainless steel bowl. It has a unique digital control panel with seven preset programmes and a powerful 1,200W motor. The FP826H boasts the same accessories and functions but includes a clear plastic bowl and a 1,000W motor.

The FP824H has a mechanical control panel with sixspeed settings.

Unlike blenders, food processors use interchangeable disks and blades, which can be utilised for different purposes. For example, the blades for chopping are different from the ones used for mixing or shredding.

If you don’t use a food processor, the chances are you’re spending a lot of unnecessary time in the kitchen. Any busy parent or professional knows that

when you are in a hurry, every minute counts. So, why waste effort chopping and mixing ingredients manually when the Moulinex Double Force range can do it for you in a fraction of the time?

As an added bonus, it’s quick and easy to make fresh and flavourful meals with wholefoods. This is a much healthier way to eat; it guarantees you get the appropriate vitamins and minerals and can even help you to lose weight.

Another benefit of using these devices is that you can now make things you didn’t think you could before – for example, if you usually buy sauce from a jar at the store, you’ll be surprised to see how easy it is to make your own at home.

Moulinex Double Force and other food processors are distributed by International Agencies Co. Ltd. (Intercol).

Call 17 364-238 or contact Shameer on 39 451-493.

March 2017 127

marketplace

JOZ SALON & SPA

Beauty Trends for 2017 If unicorn make-up is anything to go by, this year’s beauty rage has gone bananas, bringing you everything from weird to wonderful.

The beauty world is getting vibrant and wacky this season; some will have you scratching your head while others will test your creativity. Joz Salon & Spa gives a sneak peek into what’s hot this year and how to wear it.

Mermaid Eyes How to pull it off: Apply shimmery purple on the inner halves of the lids, blue on the outer, green just below the eyes and gold at the inner corners (eye primer helps). Blend with a fluffy shadow brush; liner and mascara are optional.

The Belted Pony At the backstage of runways, it looked at first as if hairstylists were doing just another low-slung ponytail. Then it was noticed that they were fastening a long fabric over the base (over an elastic); it fell to the same length as the pony’s end. And finally came the buckle. The fashion world loves anything belted – swimsuits, jumpsuits – now, apparently, hair too.

Fiery Ombré Lips The red lip – yes, it’s a classic, but this year it’s all about stepping things up. And make-up artists have found the perfect inspiration: ombré, and a wearable ombré lip at that, not the extreme made-for-Instagram-only variety.

How to do it? Start with a bold red shade along the perimeter of the lips to define the shape, 128 March 2017

then fill in the centre with a brighter orangey tone and, for added punch, finish with a glossy, vibrant orange highlight.

Arts and Crafts Nails When you see these blinged-out nails, you’ll definitely want to give them a shot.

To do it yourself: Apply your polish, then place your choice of stone using a nail glue for bigger gems or a drop of topcoat for smaller ones; let dry. Then, apply more topcoat.

Matte Eyes Sure, you can do the full-face matte makeup that’s all over social media. But let’s be real, matte everything can be a little harsh in the daylight.

Use a milder approach and focus on a single feature at a time, like the ‘90s all-matte-lids.

Matte Lips Liquid matte lipsticks need no introduction, but the new powder lip colour certainly does.

Apply a small amount of Cosmetics Melting Lip Powder on top of your lip balm. It transforms into a creamy texture and gives a lightly stained effect.

Bangs Maybe you’ve yet to venture into bangs territory, at least in your adult life. But with many celebs taking that step and making the chop look so good; Joz Salon suggests you call your stylist immediately.

Apart from the fringe, embellished braids and dramatic hair transformations are also big this year.

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

HILAL CONFERENCES & EXHIBITIONS

Breaking Records This much awaited property development expo has raised the bar from last year’s numbers, setting an even higher benchmark in 2017.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The annual Gulf Property Show, the northern Gulf’s window to international real estate and property developments in the region, is held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. The upcoming 2017 edition, which will take place from April 25 to 27 at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre has already seen over 2,000sq/m of floor space booked, surpassing last year’s record size.

“Since we first launched Gulf Property Show four years ago, the event has grown year on year in size.

This year we have already surpassed the floor space of 2016 eight weeks before the show opens,” comments Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (HCE), which organises this large-scale event each year.

This year’s expo has also attracted the greatest sponsorship support. The event’s strategic sponsors are Diyar Al Muharraq and Manara Developments. Bahrain Marina Development Company and First Bahrain Real Estate are gold sponsors; the silver sponsors are Khaleeji Commercial Bank and Fontana Real Estate.

Gulf Property Show 2017 will feature Bahrain’s iconic new ‘city’ development by Diyar Al Muharraq.

This real estate giant’s master plan will be showcased in its entirety, focusing on its landmark projects, including Al Bareh, Al Naseem, Al Qamra, Deerat Al Oyoun, Diyar Homes, Diyar Town Centre and Dragon City. The developer will also focus on the commercial sites available for investment for its highly lucrative projects such as commercial villa plots, B5 residential building spaces, light industry/logistics, warehousing and commercial showroom plots.

Also taking centre stage will be the Marassi al

Bahrain Development; a project by Abu Dhabi’s Eagle Hills, which is situated on Diyar island.

Manara Developments, another leading real estate organisation in Bahrain will be offering units from three of its major residential projects: Wahati, Kenaz Al Bahrain and Hasabi.

Bahrain Marina Development will present its mixeduse offering along Manama’s marina coastline, promoting it as Bahrain’s prime new tourist destination. First Bahrain Real Estate Development will present the El Mercado residential development as the potential first choice for investors and Fontana Real Estate will promote its exclusive towers in Juffair as a luxury lifestyle choice.

The show will also facilitate special personal and home financing packages for aspiring home-owners through a number of financial institutions led by Khaleeji Commercial Bank, Bahrain’s leading Islamic finance house.

“The Gulf Property Show will feature renowned developers of Bahrain including Bin Faqeeh, Ahmed Al Qaed Group, Al Maawdah Group, Grnata Group, Naseej, Dream Group and Al Tijaria Real Estate to name a few. All the leading developers in the Kingdom are already committed to the show. This will represent, for the first time under one roof, over USD$6 billion worth of construction projects in Bahrain alone,” adds Mr Abdulrahman.

Supporting organisations include the Kingdom’s regulatory real estate authority – the Survey and Land Bureau, as well as the Bahrain Property Developers’ Association.

Visit www.gulfpropertyshow.net.

March 2017 129

marketplace MUKTA A2 CINEMAS

A Celebration to Remember If you’re thinking of having a special event to mark a significant milestone, this venue provides an unusual but fun option.

What creates a great memory? A unique celebration, of course! There’s nothing better than having a large gathering of friends, family or colleagues to catch a happy flick on the big screen. Hosting your get-together at Mukta A2 Cinemas is a unique, and one of the best, ways to show your gratitude, reward and entertain your business associates, staff or social circle.

Mukta A2 Cinemas, located at Juffair Mall, is the ultimate venue for private parties and corporate events. Take advantage of the great group discounts offered for birthday parties as well as private screenings for conferences and official bookings to enjoy the biggest blockbusters and evergreen movie favourites.

All group bookings come with the option of choosing your preferred seating and a comprehensive range of food and beverage

packages, which are tailored to suit your requirements. The multiplex also offers an exclusive ‘Service on Seat’ facility, which means visitors can enjoy the movie without having to fetch food and drinks for themselves.

Hosting your movie soirée here is a convenient and fresh alternative to traditional venues; especially because of the novel services on offer. You can treat your guests to lavish indulgence in an intimate and exclusive environment, with a variety of seating options – from rockers and sofas to VIP recliner chairs.

The cinema is known for its state-of-the-art technology with Dolby Digital and Quantum Logic surround sound. And, after a superb silver screen experience, the after-party can continue in the lobby of the multiplex. For an unparalleled approach to entertaining, Mukta A2 Cinemas is the place to be.

Call 17 813-666 or email enquiry.bahrain@ muktaa2cinemas.com for group bookings and events.

NOMINATION ITALY

To Mum, with Love She has cared for and loved you from the deepest depths of her heart.

It’s now time to show her how much she means to you.

Mark this Mother’s Day by gifting that special lady in your life something she’ll cherish forever. One of the most valuable and versatile gifts is a Composable bracelet from Nomination, Italy’s premium accessory brand. This gift is suited to anyone you hold close to your heart – be it family or friends, to express and celebrate your love for them.

Each bracelet is built link by link, so you can create a personalised gift with her favourite gemstones or with a special message to her from you. Choose from thousands of beautiful designs, symbols and messages including family-themed links and ideas that are perfect for Mother’s Day. The Composable Collection is made by Nomination’s expert artisan craftsmen at the atelier studios in and around the Renaissance city of Florence. Each Composable link is made of surgical-quality stainless steel which is hypoallergenic. It is resistant to tarnish and is strong enough to be worn every day. Precious links are decorated with letters and symbols in 18K gold, sterling silver, 9K rose gold, hand-painted enamel, natural gemstones and sparkling cubic zirconia. Each stone is individually set by hand to bring the best of ‘Made in Italy’ to every link.

So go ahead and gift your mother something she will treasure forever.

Call 17 530-919.

130 March 2017

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Flaunt a Clear Complexion

Dr Reeti Malhotra, consultant dermatologist at Royal Bahrain Hospital, touches upon the common reasons behind acne and the various ways to successfully treat it.

Commonly referred to as ‘pimples’, acne vulgaris is a disorder of the sebaceous (oil) glands. The condition is generally a sign of the onset of puberty, but it can persist well into adult life.

Acne is caused by blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads), excess oil production, bacterial or fungal infection, inflammation and hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovarian disorder. Diet, stress, medication and occupational factors are other triggers. The face, chest and back, which have a high concentration of oil glands, are usually affected. Clogged pores eventually turn in to red, pus-filled spots, leaving behind scars and pigmentation.

Washing the affected areas two to three times a day with a special cleanser unblocks

the pores. Creams containing vitamin A, acid derivatives, and topical antibacterial agents can help tackle mild acne. For more severe cases, antibiotics, oral contraceptive pills or isotretinoin (Roaccutane is a common brand) are prescribed. Isotretinoin is considered a wonder cure, but must be taken under strict medical supervision to avoid possible side effects.

The Royal Aesthetic Centre at Royal Bahrain Hospital offers a range of remedial treatments for active acne and scars.

Removal of blackheads and whiteheads as they form prevents them from changing to bigger spots. Chemical peels help to exfoliate dead skin, open blocked pores and help to minimise pigmentation. Larger bumps can be alleviated with injections and scars can be treated with a combination of techniques like subcision, excision, Fraxel laser, platelet rich plasma, fillers and fat injections. Early treatment of blemishes is likely to give very good results.

Dr Reeti Malhotra

Call 17 246-800 or 17 246-939 or visit www. royalbahrainhospital.com.

www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

March 2017 131

marketplace business bites

Bahrain Wins World Cup Bid Gravity Indoor Skydiving in Bahrain has won the bid to host the third FAI Indoor Skydiving World Cup. The Kingdom is the first Middle Eastern country to host the global event, seeing off competition from nations around the world.

The 2018 event will attract more than 350 competitors from 20 countries and adds momentum to the island’s vision of becoming a global sporting destination.

Gravity is Bahrain’s first indoor skydiving venue and home to one of the world’s tallest glass wind tunnels, making it an ideal venue to host the competition.

Hotel Acquisition and Expansion Plans Ramee Group has acquired the remaining shares of the Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa in the Seef area. Ramee Properties, a unit of Ramee Group, previously owned 40 per cent of the property and has now bought out the remaining shares from Alireza and sons Group.

Raj Shetty, chairman of Ramee Group of Hotels and Ramee Properties, says: “This acquisition will add value to the property and give us an opportunity to provide enhanced services. Bahrain’s hospitality sector showed positive results last year, as our occupancy rates went up 4-5 per cent compared to 2015.”

Meanwhile, the group has announced plans to develop another five-star property in Bahrain. Estimated to cost over BD7 million, Juffair Views will be a luxury hotelapartment development featuring a restaurant, spa, health club and swimming pool.

Ahamed Nadeem, project head, Ramee Group, said construction is expected to begin in 2018 and it will be fully operational by the end of 2020.

The company also plans to upgrade its existing four-star properties in the Kingdom to be in line with the new guidelines released by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism. The renovation programme, which will cover a total of 800 rooms, is expected to be completed by next year.

Fourth Edition of Youth Business Awards Tamkeen launched the fourth edition of ‘Mashroo3i’ Youth Business Awards with an orientation day for the teams and mentors.

The nationwide competition is positioned as a national platform aimed at promoting entrepreneurial values among Bahraini youths and guiding them to transform their business ideas and dreams into feasible business plans.

This year’s edition will witness the participation of 204 young entrepreneurs representing 110 business concepts, spread across many industries and fields.

“Young Bahrainis are more aware of the concept and benefit of entrepreneurship and the need to develop the required skills to excel in this field,” says Mohammed Ahmadi, manager of Youth Schemes at Tamkeen. “This was reflected in the number of applications received for this year’s edition. We are pleased with the turnout of the participants during the orientation day and their keen interest to undergo the psychometric assessments.

“We are looking forward to the outcome of this competition, which will surely support the development of the entrepreneurship sector in the Kingdom.”

Mashroo3i targets Bahraini nationals aged between 18 to 30 years and aims to attract youths who are passionate about entrepreneurship, in order to cultivate and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs 132 March 2017

and support the overall growth of the Kingdom’s economy.

Applicants were selected based on the merits of their business ideas and their entrepreneurial characteristics. The top three winners will receive a number of prizes, including the opportunity to undergo a local or international training programme, a sponsored incubation facility and financial support. www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from A La Mode.

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions.

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of Bahrain This Month.

Who got it right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Bahrain This Month received 103 entries last month, all of which answered the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

Which Canadian superstar will perform at BIC this month? ______________________________________________

Winner : Jasmine Dael Second Place : Pearlie Diaz Third Place : Christian Alonzo

Which fashion trend comes from ‘the decade that style forgot’? ______________________________________________

Last month’s solutions:

Who is the new GM at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain? ______________________________________________

1. Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre 2. The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain 3. Queen and Meatloaf 4. DJ Lyta 5. Seef Corner 6. Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons 7. 2017 Corolla 8. Open Melted Sandwich Promotion 9. Sticky Toffee Pudding, Banoffee In a Jar 10. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Which hotel will host The Love of Tuscany Festival? ______________________________________________ Where is the Bahrain Food Festival taking place? ______________________________________________ What special never-before-seen show is taking place on the sidelines of the Bahrain Drag Racing ChampionshipArabian Pro Series? ______________________________________________ Where does the Dogfather’s Car Boot Sale take place? ______________________________________________

Name:

What date does the Cherry Tree Trot take place? ______________________________________________

Telephone:

Ad Seek:

1. Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition

2. Nomination Italy

3. Juffair Fitness Center 4. The Foundry

Address:

Email:

Euro Motors recently launched which new BMW? ______________________________________________

CPR: Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random.

Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

The JAC Motors Refine is available to lease monthly for how much?

AD Seek

rmance This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of Bahrain This Month. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner! iciency nce

1.

2.

4.

March 2017 133

www.bahrainthismonth.com

l: 17 738333 - Fax: 17 731529 - Sitra Showroom: 17 738406 / 17 738404 - Fax: 17 456535

3.

@awalgulfmanufacturing

tarotscope

PISCES

Feb 21 – March 20 Could this be your lucky month when it comes to romance? With Valentine’s Day firmly behind you, there are few thoughts in your head concerning a new relationship and yet that could be exactly what lies around the corner for you this March. The signs point to a dark-haired person striking up a conversation with you at a forthcoming dinner party which leads to something a lot more serious as the next few weeks progress. However, there could be one little surprise that you weren’t prepared for and, although it will all turn out okay in the end, you will be slightly shaken before the course of true love is discovered.

Card of the Month — The Nine Of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

ARIES March 21 – April 20

That anticipated pay rise may have been delayed, but since it came into effect last month you have really noticed the difference to your lifestyle and this has had a positive effect by making you value your job a lot more. Your employers responded to your demands and realised that the contribution you are making needed to be valued more than it was. Now that you are earning closer to your potential, you should start to put your financial gains to better use. Look at investment or saving – especially if you plan to purchase big later in the year. Be sensible and the rewards will be far greater than you imagined.

Card of the Month — The Eight Of Cups

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20 March will see you getting to grips with the start of a new career – something already outlined in your reading for last month. The opportunities ahead will no doubt excite you but you should be careful at the offset to ensure that you watch for any potential pitfalls. You cannot rely on any one person to carry you through an initially tricky settling in period and, above all else, you should look to your own judgement to see you through. The signs ahead are positive and sensible planning will result in you achieving a good degree of success in your endeavours from now until the end of the year.

Card of the Month — The Wheel Of Fortune 134 March 2017

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 Something is bothering you and whilst you know exactly what it is, you’re finding it hard to muster the courage to tell the person concerned how you feel. The issue is one of the heart and relates to the re-emergence of a former loved one just as a current partner is seeking a firmer commitment from you. And therein lies the root of your problem. Do you love the one you are currently with or are there dormant feelings still present within you that are driving you back into the arms of an old flame? Only you can know the answer and it requires you be honest before someone gets seriously hurt.

Card of the Month — The Pope CANCER June 21 – July 20 Many tears have been shed over the last few months and, for some of you, the new year has taken a long while to get going. However, you finally feel like you are getting somewhere and this renewed level of optimism will see you making great strides over the weeks to come. Career-wise there could be a change of role for you and even a change of location as your newfound position calls for a great deal more travel and time away.

Those of you with family will need to consider this carefully and talk it through with a partner before making any firm decisions. The first few months are likely to be quite demanding and those closest to you need to realise this before you commit.

Card of the Month — The Moon LEO July 21 – August 21

It seems that no matter what evidence is thrown before you, you just won’t accept certain facts concerning people in your life – even if they prove harmful to you. Such is the case this March when a person many have advised you to stay away from puts unnecessary demands upon you that you simply cannot meet. The time has come for you to see this relationship for what it is and do something about it before you get yourself in a mess you won’t easily be able to escape from. You need to think better of yourself and realise that you have the potential to achieve a lot more than you are currently managing.

Card of the Month — The Ten Of Wands

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

If there’s anything about your sign that really annoys the hell out of those close to you it’s your obsession with detail.

For some it can really grate after a while. Well, this month will see you coming to blows with a female Taurean after your critical remarks sting more than you anticipated. Unfortunately, the resulting disagreement will not make for pretty viewing and, once the dust has settled, you may find yourself with one less friend as a consequence. If there is any lesson to be learned from the experience it’s that you need to be a little more diplomatic and sensitive to the feelings of those around you.

Card of the Month — Justice

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

March will see you moving with a positive spring in your step as you head towards the anticipated new position at work that you have strived to attain over the last few months. It’s going to be a busy time for you and whilst you are well aware of the workload involved, there is still the chance that your enthusiasm will lead you to overdo it, so try and take out time to relax. There’s little to be gained by stretching yourself to breaking point if you’re not going to be around to enjoy the fruits of your labour! Your achievements have already been recognised by your superiors; you’ve nothing more to prove.

Card of the Month — The Two Of Wands www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

New love is always so exhilarating and uplifting, bringing with it a sense of excitement and anticipation that is rarely ever equalled by anything else in life. So it will be for you this month as a relationship you didn’t think was going to ever get started finally makes it off the starting blocks in a very big way.

Emotionally you are going to be swept off your feet and you will be oblivious to much of what is going on around you at the time. If there’s a word of caution at all, it’s simply that you should be careful not to neglect a particular friend who has looked to you for support and may still do so for some time to come.

Card of the Month — The Nine Of Swords

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 It could be that a recent injury in the home has been causing you some pain over the last few days and you might be wise to seek out some medical advice because you will discover you’ve hurt yourself more seriously than you originally believed. We could be talking broken bones here so don’t delay. Many Sagittarians are not visiting-the-doctor types and you really only drag yourself to the GP if all else has failed. Well in this case there is no excuse. Then, after you’ve got yourself patched up, take a moment to work out how it all happened in the first place. It could be there’s more here than meets the eye!

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21

This month is going to be all about beginnings and treading fresh ground as many of you start a new life away from the security and familiar surroundings you have become used to over the last few years. However, much of your movement is down to choice and there is every indication that, after a few small hiccups, things will really take off for you in a big way. Things may not be so simple regarding relationships and if you have any doubts over where your current love life is heading then it might be time for you to be a little brutal and cut yourself loose. No sense in weighing yourself down with past baggage that’s stopping you from moving on.

Card of the Month — The Six Of Swords

AQUARIUS January 22 – February 21

Be careful not to isolate yourself from someone who could help you in your quest for material stability over the next 12 months, because you will regret it later. You will need to swallow your pride and look to family and friends to take the sting out of any financial setback, and it’s not going to be an easy road for many of you in March. However, if you can bear to face the music on several difficult issues and are strong enough to manage the bad moments with a cool head, then you will eventually emerge from the worst of this relatively unscathed. You’ll certainly know who your real friends are at the end of it all.

Card of the Month — The Page Of Wands

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Daniel Craig

Albert Einstein

Eva Longoria

FAMOUS PISCES THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear Bossini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Dune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Tod’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3

Home & Furnishing Aran Cucine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 ID Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Hotels & Serviced Residences Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . 105 Frsan Palace Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Golden Tulip Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 37 The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Delma) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 4 Nomination Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sharif Group (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 25 Middle East Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Symmetria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . 63 Behbehani Brothers (Audi) . . . . . . . . 27 Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . . . . 1 EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Subaru) . . . . . 31

Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC JAC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Others Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 13 BAl Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . 11 Alosra Supermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Awal Gulf Manufacturing Co. (Pearl) 81 City Centre Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Economic Development Board (Centre for Culture & Development) . . . . . . . . 13 Entertainment Plus (Twelfth Night) . 123 Gajria Electronics (Chigo) . . . . . . . . . . 83 Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf Interiors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions (Gulf Property Show) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Intercol:IAA (Moulinex) . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Kumar’s Group (K Home & Kitchen) . 15 Mukta A2 Multiplex S.P.C . . . . . . . . . . 57 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Rotary Raft Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Sphere Events (Balam Pichkari 2) . . 97 Zu’bi Partners Attorneys & Legal Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Restaurants & Cafés Baci . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Cavalli Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 The Foundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge 107 Wok Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

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

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets

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

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com.

March 2017 135

lastword

Old Man’s Rant GEG HOPKINS Politics lends itself to such ridicule, unless of course you live in the Gulf – then it’s best not to put anything in writing. Not that you will ever get an answer even if you did, but you might get a knock on the door.

Politicians who get paid extremely well for doing so little leave themselves wide open to ridicule, so why not pillory them? Unlike The Donald, Obama was schooled in the American version of Oxford, so the influence is much the same and it totally controls all political thinking from LA to London and no doubt the Bosphorus.

It is the ‘PPE graduate’ (with a degree in philosophy, politics and economics) from Oxford University and the reality is that those holding it, hold high positions everywhere. Not a single grad having this esteem power has any idea whatsoever as to what it actually means. Nigel Farage of the UK Independence party (UKIP) has the closest understanding when he refers to it as “PPE BOLLOCKS”.

Oddly, Obama’s version allowed a sense of humour, which must have gone against the grain somewhat. There is not much else to laugh about in the real world these days as most of it is against the PC-imposed law. If sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, then stop peeing your pants at some of the occasional chuckle lines in this column or you will be deemed a racist. No more mimicking accents, no more cultural observations – if you didn’t watch Harry Potter, you are Nazi, if you thought Lord of the Rings was a gay bar – you are ‘offensive’. If we dare to look at a fat person and cringe or pretend we are not colour blind, then you get arrested. You cannot make fun of the uneducated (when it is wholly self-inflicted) and you can’t tell a joke like: A hillbilly is going 136 February 2017

through the formalities opening of a savings account at the bank and the teller mentions ‘interest’. The hillbilly says: “Hush now, y’all gonna git me in trouble agin.” Or: “There wuz only room fer one on the tractor, so I lit me Ma and sister drive.”

Now the Trump onslaught – just joking – we’ll get back to that later. Let’s probe the hypocrisy we are all forced to live by should the burgeoning anti-PC revolution fail.

What is an oxy-moron? Life? Nope! That is an ‘oxymoron’. An oxy-moron relates to bozos who dictate life to us the moment they leave Oxford.

The oxymoron of ‘life’ means ‘death’ – for sure (at some stage). Some may have noticed that we stay dead a very long time and nobody has ever come back to dispute such wisdom; not that we know of. Um… let’s not get into religion here with a barrage from the devout protesting that ‘on the third day’ and so on. Pap, repetitious monkey see, monkey do media and amateur advertising is so often riddled with oxymoron. “Your call is important to us” iteration and irritation. “Our staff care about you.” The falseness of it contradicts the sentence. “No animals were harmed during the testing of our products” by the makers of the best microwave ovens in the world.

For a start, the very actions of those masked or curtain rail Fascists rioting in the name of protest, while calling non-conformists morons for not towing the indoctrinated Fabian line, is the current most worrying oxy-moron. Yes, we know that so many campus professors fit this bill, with their condescending approach to us all if we don’t follow their deluded intellectual thesis.

The British Government and indeed the BBC are both an oxy-moron and an oxymoron. THE BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION. What is British now? It is diluted identity, levelling to the lowest common denominator.

One could be forgiven for assuming it is the

Voice of Africa or India or something, spewing it’s rather unsavoury, indeed Fascist Left Wing doctrine to the world, flavoured by gayness. For some absurd reason, it is common knowledge and ostensibly fully accepted by society that the BBC houses an inordinate number of homosexuals, disabled, ineloquent and sadly a noticeable palate of considerably ugly presenters, who are given priority over perfectly gracious, good-looking, well-heeled, hetero indigenous. It is certainly the antipathy of Fox News, if one excludes Shepard Smith that is! (Oh, you are confused? Look it up! If it is on the Internet it must be true).

Factually, many BBC (and several other) presenters are incapable of picking up English mother-tongue nuance, so, unaware, read out and regurgitate as they blindly follow the closet format. Each mimic what they think is the kosher delivery, convinced the world is desperately hanging on to their every BBC word as they wave their hands about like a deranged sign language impersonator, or a distressed sailor frantically using semaphore to warn you a large albatross is about to crap on your head. A devilish news editor could have a field day with ambiguous scripts, full of double entendre, and it would all get read out, just as it does in Bahrain with presenters none the wiser.

It happens – take note! In BBC land, a story about a ‘cock fight’ in Thailand has nothing to do with chickens. We now have to say “cheers” when making a toast as the old fashioned “bottoms up” might lead to an orgy in their corridors.

Imagine an interview on the ‘Travel Programme’ which is so often hosted by a dreadlock clad rather pleasing fellow who happens to be black and confined to a wheel chair; quite possibly practising backgammon, sporting the diction of a welder; whereby if the BBC can wiggle in something about homosexuality, even with the remotest association – they will. “Yeah, my parents are going to India for meditation and sexual enlightenment.” Curious as to where in India the reporter asks: “Mumbai?” “Yes” says the guest. “My dad is as well.”

The British nation has itself been oblivious to it for decades and even pay for it like a porn channel. Like a religion, it is all around, but one suspects people are eventually waking up to it now. Trump… (OK, that’s only twice we mention him this month), as with his upcoming European counterparts (as fanaticised by the corrupt media), one could hopefully see ‘normality’ re-emerge. It will be wonderful to rub it in their faces – said the actress to the bishop. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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