Bahrain This Month - May 2014

Family Motoring | Global Dining | Education www.bahrainthismonth.com

Your Guide To A Great Way Of Life

May 2014 ~ Vol. 18 ~ Issue 5

SNSE Expo

Arts

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Culture

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Clubs

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Sports

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Interviews

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Lifestyle

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Dining

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Nightlife

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Issue 201

Contents May 2014 COVER STORY 88

Get Ready for Summer!

Summer fashions are all the rage; make sure you are kitted out to stand out from the crowd.

23

HAPPENINGS Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of May 2014:

Artistic Expression: Paintings are on display SNSE 2014: Experts help those with disabilities 26 Chuckle Club: Three stand-up acts come to town 28 Musical for Kids: What the Ladybird Heard 30 Book Drives: Donate your books to charity this month 32 Tackling Barriers: Test your limits at Amwaj 34 Building the Future: Construction and property expo 23-34 Calendars: Events during May 23

24

28

32 58

INTERVIEWS 57

Know Your Rights

Handy and thorough guide which assists unskilled and lower income workers.

58

Widening Influence

The Turkish Ambassador talks about expanding cultural

60

and business ties.

60

Delivering Value

Aziz Mithaiwala explains how Pegasus Real Estate set about identifying opportunities.

62

Staying Lean

Exa.oi uses superpowers to offer rendering services to

62

101 Bystander This month the Bystander pages are dominated by the recently held Bahrain F1 Grand Prix, and the after parties, and our celebration of the Bahrain This Month’s 200th issue. In between we found time to celebrate with the Italians, Irish and Greeks. There was the launch of a new BMW, a new Kia showroom and a tribute to the Kingdom’s five-star hotel concierges.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

client around the world.

64

JLR Backseat Chat

Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa explains her charitable work and how to relax.

This three-step graphic explains what you need to do to Blipp any page in this issue with this symbol.

May 2014 5

Issue 201

Contents May 2014 LIFESTYLE Blipp This Month: 65

64

JLR Backseat Chat:

Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa 176

Berlitz: Learn about their summer camp

Motoring: Feature: Motoring options for the family 98 Showcase: Motor City reopens Sitra showroom 99 Test Drive: Ford Fusion 92

Education: 101

Feature: A look at the Kingdom’s education industry

Downtime: Gadgets: What’s in today 113 Music: Artists through the generations 114 Computer Games: Decade-long matches 115 Websites: The British answer to The Onion 116 Apps: Go to sleep; analyse it 117 Movies: Saving the world 110

92

135

Dining: Le Domain [34]: Bringing back the fun in dining 136 Happenings: Where to eat in May 138 Feature: The future of dining 142 Showcase: Big Smoke Burger 174 Theme Nights: Where to go every night of the week 135

153

160

After Dark: DJs from Mars: Ibrida reels in some of the best DJs 154 Happenings: Parties you cannot miss in May 156 Theme Nights: Where to go every night of the week

153

Showcase: What’s New: Summer wardrobe update Marketplace: Latest products and services

159 160

110

113

114

116

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Regulars: WIN WIN 182 Tarotscope 183 AD Index 184 Last Word 181

May 2014 7

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month May 2014

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

Dear Readers,

Contributors James Claire (dining), Simi Kamboj

I think we can well and truly say that summer has arrived! It never fails to amaze how, in the space of a few short days, the ambient temperatures of spring give way to the heat and humidity of summer.

The heat was certainly turned on for our 200th birthday celebration last month. The evening of friendship and fervour is captioned in an extended Bystander this month, from page 66 onwards.

The real estate sector of the local economy seems to be starting to gain traction as astute property developers find niche opportunities that offer a decent return on investment. This month we talk to Aziz Mithaiwala, managing director at Pegasus Real Estate, about his latest project. Juffair Heights is pitched at the upper end of the affordable market and in a location that has seen an uptick in new construction activity over recent months.

In our Jaguar Land Rover Back Seat Chat we venture out in the Range Rover Evoque with Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa. A well-known business leader, Shaikha Hind tells about her work as chairperson of the Mother and Child Welfare Society, and how she likes to relax away from work.

An old friend of ours, VK Thomas, takes us through the thinking behind his new Employee Handbook that is targeted at the unskilled and low income workers from the Indian subcontinent. The book aims to raise awareness of employee rights to assist migrant workers receive the full benefit of their employment in the Kingdom.

A relative newcomer to the island, the Turkish ambassador, Hatun Demirer, hopes to strengthen the longstanding cultural and business ties between the two countries. Also aiming to make an impact are the founders of Exa.io. Using a cloud-based supercomputer they plan to offer 3D rendering services to clients around the world from Bahrain.

Our happenings pages focus on a major business event that has grown in leaps and bounds. GulfBID will bring thousands of visitors to the Kingdom during the course of the month to participate in this exhibition for the construction industry. Alongside the main attraction are two ‘sister’ shows, Gulf Property and Gulf Interiors.

This month we also include features covering education, dining and family motoring; all three are packed with opportunities to take advantage of the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

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

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING 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.

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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

COVER Cover Picture:

Summer Fashion from Accessorize.

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Family Motoring | Global Dining | Education www.bahrainthismonth.com

Your Guide To A Great Way Of Life

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May 2014 ~ Vol. 18 ~ Issue 5

SNSE Expo

Arts

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Sports

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Nightlife

May 2014 9

bystander

The 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix The 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix was held last month at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. The highly anticipated event celebrated 10 years of Formula One in the Kingdom, and in commemoration of this special occasion, the Bahrain Grand Prix was held at night for the very first time.

The race was attended by His Majesty King Hamad, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, F1 supermo Bernie Ecclestone, celebrities, foreign media, visitors from all over the world & BIC officials One of the Mercedes cars during the practice session

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa & His Majesty King Hamad

Fawaz, HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Communications Affairs & David

Anthony, Rob & Penny

Aya, Areej, Heba & Anwaar

10 May 2014

Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief executive of BIC, Zayed R. Alzayani & HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa & David Robertson

Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso

Hala & Haya

Hussain, Raed & Hussain

F1 supermo Bernie Ecclestone

Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg

Katie & Britta

HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa

Suzi & Lee

Donya & Khalid

Eva

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bystander

The 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

Paul, Stacey, Gail & Paige

Amanda, Fati & Basma

Abdulla Al Haddad & Adel

Mahmood & Khalil

Usman & Mehr

Ali, Fawas, Mark & Mo

Anna & Dahna

Abdulla Al Haddad, Mark & Graeme

Sam & Olivia

Jonathan & Michaela

Alia

Lagge & Christian

Arden team members

Yaver & Natasha

Jude & Zahra

Faisal

Tara & Nicki

Lucy, Geri & Lindsay with a clown

Eleanor, Alex & Naomi

12 May 2014

Thea, Valetine & Auriane

Roz, Ghadah & Tala

Najwa, Mariam & Nujood

Ella, Jess & Molly

Jill

Suzy & John

Blake

Khaleda

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bystander

The 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

Clana, Elizabeth, Orla & Simon

Nadia, Abida & Ameena

Farah, Noor & Miral

Anne & Dalia

Sara & Nada

Mashael, Al Anood, Lulwa, Sara & Deema

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14 May 2014

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Mutaz & Abdulla

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Yasmin & Fatima

Clive & Veronica

Nasser

Lara & Yasmin

Gabriela & Ferdinand

Deena & Raza

Mike, Deema Al Haddad & Graeme

Darren, Lee, Melanie, Laura, Libby & Alex

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bystander

The 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

Rock legends The Scorpions rocked the BIC much to the delight of thousands of their fans

Mahin, Nigel & Lynne

Noora, Afqa & Sumrah

Giulia, Maurizio & Piero

Dr Mariam & Dr Maisa

Masha

Bader & Ahmed

Hessa & Khulood

Haseeb & Nilofer

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Lewis Hamilton on his way to winning the race, followed by Nico Rosberg who was second, giving Mercedes a one two on the podium

Sergio Perez of Force India on his way to 3rd place

16 May 2014

Mo & Anna

2nd place Nico Rosberg, Mercedes AMG F1, Aldo Costa, Mercedes AMG F1, race winner Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes AMG F1 & 3rd place Sergio Perez, Force India celebrate on the podium

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bystander

Jean-Michel, Claudia, Meike & Bruno

Grand Italian Charity Ball The 4th edition of the Grand Italian Charity Ball, a Venetian Masquerade Dream was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa last month

Romina Vecchi, Mala Kumar, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Francesco, Franca, HE Alberto Vecchi, Vito, Luigina & Romina

Khalid, Aleksandra, Alexandre, Irina, Bijan, Pauline, Cristina & Filippo

Marco, Guia, Francisco & Shaikh Mohammed

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18 May 2014

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David, Rose, Jenny & Michael

Faith & Dr Pierre

Cristina, Catherine & Simonetta

Lynne & Abdulrahman

Jelena, Ryan & Hanadi

Roya & Karina

Guido & Alessandra

Dr Stan & Hilde

Barbara & Ingo

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bystander

Grand Italian Charity Ball

HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, Ahmed, HE Alberto Vecchi & HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador

Jano, Vicky & Fawzia

HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Moroccan Ambassador, Ahmed & Homa Jawahery & Fawzia

Hans, Luna, Mariam, Ingo & Barbara

Ed, Adel, Sameera & Wendy

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Bridget Lindsay, Ellenor Whiteley & Calum Lindsay

Maike & Marco

Tomoko, Mala, Romina & Bonnie

Maya & Miguel

Sasha, Gayle & Ellissa

Steve & Sonja

Aimee, Lynn & Shirley

Harry & Mark

Alfonso, Natali & Ernst

Charles Russell Reception Charles Russell hosted a reception for Bahrain Real Estate Development at Txoko Lounge, Domain Bahrain

Andrew, Owen, Emyr & Will

Alina, Tom & Waleed

20 May 2014

Abeer, Bahu & Reem

Ahmed & Isa

Steve & Andrew

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HAPPENINGS

this month

SNSE 2014, p24

Artistic Revelations The Chuckle Club, p26

May 18 | Art exhibition | Bin Mattar House Feel inspired by the works of these two established artists as they leave you to interpret their works through a mesmerising display of paintings and sculptures.

A dual exhibition featuring a collection of sculptures and paintings by artists Balqees Fakhro and Khalid Farhan comes alive in an exhibition called ‘Inspiration’. The artists will present their works at the Bin Mattar House in Muharraq on May 18.

Painting abstract memories Balqees Fakhro’s career in painting started in 1975, upon her graduation from San Francisco University with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and art history. Since then, she has taken part in numerous exhibitions and symposiums, both locally and internationally.

“My paintings revolve around the themes of belonging and memories of places,” says Balqees. “Through my abstract style, my paintings show a mystery of a place belonging to a very basic form of living, such as the caves and tents of our ancestors.”

As one of the first female members of the Bahrain Formative Arts Society, Balqees has played an active role in developing the formative arts movement. She has been taking part in the annual formative arts exhibition organised by the Ministry of Information since 1976 and has received several awards. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Balqees has lectured at cultural events, supported charity auctions and served as a critic to promote art in Bahrain and the region.

Her paintings have been acquired by various institutions, including the Bahrain National Museum, Modern Art Museum of Jordan, Arabic Modern Art Museum in Doha, Dubai Financial Center, and the Hamburg State House in Berlin.

Shaping nature-inspired works Bahrain’s promising young artistic talent, Khalid Farhan, is inspired by the fundamental opposition of positive and negative forces in nature. As a sculptor, he works with wood, stone, brass and bronze. The artist considers the writings of Freud as central to his inspiration and work — in particular the opposition and integration of the feminine and the masculine.

Khalid’s artistic talents manifested at an early age and he went on to pursue his study of Fine Arts in Egypt in 1997. He has exhibited prolifically throughout the region, Europe and Asia and regularly participates in the International Sculpture Symposium. His most famous work, The Legend, a wooden sculpture over 10 metres long, is on display at the main entrance of the Bahrain National Museum.

West End Musical, p28

A FOR AWAY This vitamin, and beta carotene, help to boost immunity against disease.

It also assists in the healing process of diseases such as measles and is recommended by the WHO. Good natural sources of vitamin A are kidneys, liver, dairy products, green and yellow vegetables, pawpaw, mangoes, chilli pepper, red sorrel and red palm oil.

Call 17 322-549 or visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

May 2014 23

happenings

Hand In Hand May 11-12 | Special Needs Support Exhibition | The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Hope is just around the corner at this annual exhibition, where one can learn about the best ways to support a relative or friend with disabilities.

The second edition of the Special Needs Support Exhibition gets under way this month on May 11 and 12 with an aim to address and empower the lives of differently abled people.

Themed around ‘Help Make Life Easier’, the exhibition is designed to equip those with disabilities and their families with skills to do just that. Parents and teachers can benefit from expert advice on the best approach to improve a child’s lifestyle, through a series of interactive workshops, seminars and conferences.

“Following the success of our first exhibition in 2013, this year will focus on skills that can be instilled or developed in people with special needs,” says Mohammed Bucheri, chairman of the organising committee. “The exhibition also advises parents on the latest techniques that will assist them.”

24 May 2014

Offering guidance Participants will be able to identify basic problems and learn how to tackle them through seminars and workshops, which will be conducted over the two days by top speakers and facilitators. Guests can meet major international and local experts from Alia for Early Intervention, Hobbies Stationery, Kids First, Medha Mind, Nasco and the New England Center for Children. Other participants in the expo include Orthopadie Technik Berlin, ProxTalker, Q’straint, Sylvan Learning Center, The Carbone Clinic and The Doris Duan-Young Autism Center.

Key topics that will be covered are the changes in early identification and intervention, and communication issues in autism and Asperger syndrome. Attendees can watch a presentation about the Perkins Smart Brailler platform.

Tackling everyday issues Kids First and Bahrain-based Think Inc will host a series of lectures on functional approaches to

everyday life. This includes classroom management strategies, dealing with challenging behaviour, and building bridges with family and the wider society. One of the talks sheds light on provision and progression relating to training and employment in the Gulf region, where employment opportunities for the disabled are considered insufficient.

Make the most of free consultation sessions hosted by Kids First on spoken language, sensory processing, motor skills, handwriting, learning difficulties, behavioural challenges and social skills.

A competitive spirit To promote the theme, SNSE 2014 introduces two new competitions this year — film-making and cooking. Previews will be held at Bahrain City Centre on May 8 and 9, respectively.

SNSE is organised by Provision Events Bahrain in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the National Institute for the Disabled.

Call 17 369-595 or email snse@snse-expo.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings THE CHUCKLE CLUB

Laugh It Off!

Matt Forde

May 14-16 | Comedy shows | Various locations

Damian Clark

Let your senses go wild as the latest round-up of talent keeps you roaring with uncontrollable laughter over the coming days.

You had plenty of side-splitting laughter from the Chuckle Club last month; now the show must go on! This month’s acts take place on May 14 at The Capital Club at Bahrain Financial Harbour, on May 15 at The British Club and on May 16 at the InterContinental Regency Hotel.

Doors open at 7.30pm.

Damian Clark Australian-born Damian earned his comedy career after winning the Perth Comedy Fringe Award in 2000. His first solo show, The Bandit, was a recipient of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Moosehead Award, which led to him touring all over Australia in the festival’s road show.

After acclaimed TV performances on comedy talk shows, like Rove Live and ABC’s Stand-up!, he created and starred in The Comedy Channel’s Damo Does Edinburgh.

Within weeks of moving to Ireland, he was hailed as “the No. 1 event to see” and “cream of the crop” by Dublin Magazine. He soon became a regular on the award-winning show at the Irish Film and Television Awards, Republic of Telly, and a comedy panellist in three series of TV3’s The Apprentice: You’re Fired!

Damian is a sought-after headliner and MC. Now is the time to catch this developing talent.

26 May 2014

Jojo Sutherland In demand across the UK and Europe for her compering skills and comedy routines is the charismatic Jojo. Her natural stage presence alongside her ‘healthy neglect’ attitude to children and life in general has proved extremely popular amongst audiences.

Jojo has regularly supported other acts, including Jenny Eclair, 4 Poofs and a Piano and Tom Stade. She is a TV warm-up artist for the BBC One sitcom The Old Guys and for Pappy’s new sitcom Badults, which airs on BBC Three.

A regular contributor to several newspapers, Jojo undertakes a variety of work, like radio presenting, voiceovers, theatre performances and film. She runs her own theatre company called One Handed Women. Since 2006, she has run comedy workshops for Universal Comedy, which uses comedy as a tool to enhance selfconfidence and self-esteem amongst people who suffer long-term health issues.

Matt Forde Labour-advisor turned stand-up comedian Matt Forde hosts the critically acclaimed, monthly, live topical stand-up show Matt Forde’s Political Party at London’s St James Theatre. Performing for a mixture of politicos and the politically inquisitive, Matt has brought the parliament to life with his acts. He debates with some of the government’s most notorious figures, including

George Galloway, Nigel Farage, Jack Straw, Lembit Opik, Charles Clarke, Matthew Parris and Tim Loughton.

A frequent guest on current affairs shows, Matt has been a panellist on BBC One’s, Have I Got News for You and This Week. He can be heard on BBC Radio 4’s The Now Show and The News Quiz, and on his own weekly show called TalkSPORT. Matt regularly reviews the newspapers for Sky News and has contributed to features on ITV’s evening news.

Call 36 663-509.

Jojo Sutherland

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings When? May 1 Event? Spring Show Venue? British Club Listen to music by a DJ and a Madness tribute band from the UK. E Call 17 727-245.

When? May 2 Event? Toastmasters’ conference Venue? Elite Resort and Spa Bahrain Toastmasters of Division C holds their annual conference.

E Call 39 606-955.

When? May 2 Event? Unity program Venue? Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park, Hidd Join in a day of fun that shows the solidarity of people in Bahrain.

E Visit www.bahrain4all.com.

A Farm Full of Life May 14-15 | Theatre performance | Cultural Hall Join a farmyard of adventurous animals and hear their incredible tale as they come to Bahrain to perform one of London’s acclaimed West End musicals.

The island has plenty of farms, but none are as exciting and lively as this one. Parents and their children are set to witness a musical of What the Ladybird Heard on May 14 and 15 at the Cultural Hall.

The theatrical show comes all the way to Bahrain from London’s prominent West End, which is the entertainment hub of theatre performances including musicals, classic plays and comedies.

The plot What the Ladybird Heard is about two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s cow. But the ladybird has a plan of her own. Other characters include the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog, who take on the villains in this thrilling adventure.

The musical is a new stage adaptation based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson, bestselling author of The Gruffalo, and award-winning illustrator and design consultant for the show, Lydia Monks. The story, which is brought to Bahrain by Entertainment Plus, is animated with music, original songs, puppetry and lots of interactive fun.

“The shows give a treat of great exposure to our future generation with cultural enrichment and live entertainment with an added bonus of being educational,” says Paula Mansour, owner of Entertainment Plus. “Such shows also bring the community together, creating positivity.”

28 May 2014

About the author Julia Donaldson is the talented, prize-winning author of some of the world’s best-loved children’s books. Her first picture book, A Squash and a Squeeze, was published more than 20 years ago. Since then she has written more than 160 books, including the modern classic The Gruffalo.

Julia also writes fiction, including the Princess MirrorBelle series illustrated by Lydia Monks, as well as poems, plays and songs. Her brilliant live shows are always in demand.

She was the 2011-2013 UK Children’s Laureate, has an MBE from the Queen and you can even find a painting of her in the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Behind the scenes What the Ladybird Heard is produced by Kenny Wax, producer of Top Hat, the musical, in association with executive producer Matthew Gregory. The show is directed by Graham Hubbard, who also directed Sweeney Todd and Priscilla Queen of the Desert.

Original composition and sound design is done by Jon Fiber and Andy Shaw, who also composed for the The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom for Shock Productions.

Design is by Bek Palmer and lighting by Rick Mountjoy.

With live instrumental music, original songs, rhyming and repetition, this production is the perfect family treat and the ideal introduction to theatre for pre- and primary school children aged three and above. Tickets are available at Alosra supermarkets and Havajava at Manazel Special offers are available for schools.

Call 39 616-858 or 39 607-489.

When? May 3 Event? Open track Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Experience the thrills of racing your car or bike down on the circuit tracks.

E Call 17 450-000. or visit www. bahraingp.com.

When? May 7-19 Event? GPIC Tennis Championship Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club Tennis enthusiasts are invited to participate in the open championships.

E Call 17 729-561 or email bahrain.tennisclub@gmail.com.

When? May 8 Event? Comedy night Venue? Indian club Popular Indian comedians Raju Srivastav and Gaurav Sharma perform in Bahrain.

E Call 17 180-275 or 39 848-167.

When? May 8-9 Event? Entertainment nights Venue? British Club Join a dress-up murder mystery night and a family fun-day.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? May 9 Event? Cultural event Venue? Indian School Bahrain Indian stars visit Bahrain for the Indo Bahrain Heritage Fest 2014.

E Call 33 863-209.

When? May 9 Event? Competition Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club A charity swimming gala to raise funds for the Palm Association.

E Email palmswimminggala@ gmail.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

Finding Happiness May 5-6| Cultural show and seminar | Various locations “Only ethical practices provide happiness.

Wealth without wisdom and happiness would do nothing,” says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, world humanitarian and spiritual leader, and Art of Living founder.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar teaches us how to attain and maintain such a powerful virtue through ‘The Happiness Tour’, which starts on May 5 with a cultural show held at the Bahrain National Indoor Stadium in Riffa, followed by a seminar on May 6 at the Crowne Plaza.

Call 39 837-475 and 39 478-144.

We Want Your Books May 1-10 | Charity book drives | Various locations This month, you have the chance to inspire, educate and empower those in need by donating your books for two noble causes.

Do you have old, used or unwanted books that are gathering dust on your shelf? The New Dawn Society and Booksessed Bahrain are looking to clear the dust and put them to good use by hosting two individual book drives. They take place on May 2-10 and May 1-2, respectively.

Help build a library The New Dawn Society collaborates with the Charles & Rita Field-Marsham Foundation in Kenya to build up libraries in underprivileged Muslim neighbourhoods. It goes without saying that the beneficial aspects of this charitable cause are to raise the levels of education.

The society initiated the drive last year during which they successfully managed to collect over 1,000 books at Blaze Burgers, a restaurant in Adliya.

“The aim is to help the underprivileged become culturally open to the world of possibilities,” says Pakiza, vice president of the society. “This year we hope more people will know about our efforts and will donate generously.”

Spearheading the project globally, Niccola Milnes, the programme manager of the Charles & Rita Field-Marsham Foundation, will visit Bahrain for the book drive. During her trip, she will visit schools and universities in the Kingdom, along with members of the society, where she will talk about the initiative.

Collection points The New Dawn Society has placed boxes in Aali Mall, Riyadat Mall and Alosra Supermarket in Amwaj to collect donated books, magazines, textbooks and encyclopaedias. The deadline for collecting donations is on May 10, culminating in a full day of activities planned at Riyadat Mall in A’ali. The activities will include a public presentation in the afternoon by Niccola as well as a sign-off ceremony to count the number of books collected.

Booksessed Bahrain will host its collection point at the west wing of Seef Mall on May 1 and 2. Proceeds collected will be given to charity.

Visit www.newdawnbahrain.blogspot.com or email booksessed.bh@hotmail.com.

30 May 2014

Experimental Art Until May 11 | Art exhibition | Albareh Art Gallery Thirteen Bahraini artists have displayed their works at a collective exhibition, which focuses on exploring the media world as an art form and a medium of information. The exhibition, curated by artist Nedim Kufi, is the finale of the second edition of the Artist Leadership Programme (ALP) which took place earlier this year at the Albareh Art Gallery.

The ALP Group Show — Media Lab, started on April 27 and continues until May 11. Artists include Abdulla Naji, Ahmed Anan, Dalal Al Khuzai, Linda Mattar, Jehan Saleh, Marwa R Al-Khalifa, Mohammed Al Mahdi, Mohammed Salim, Mariam Al Noaimi, Perry El-Ashmawi, Somaya Abdulghani, Tamara Al Pachachi and Zuhair Al Saeed.

The non-profit programme aims to develop and support the practice of artists in Bahrain through mentorship and exchanges with artists from abroad.

The artistic route offered is made of several on-going workshops which train participants in the development of professional skills in the art world and broaden their knowledge of contemporary art, both in a regional and global context.

Call 17 717-707 or visit www.albareh.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

Contemporary Fusion May-September | Art exhibition | La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Get a sense of feeling like you are under the sea as this exhibition comes alive with artistic illuminations of underwater flora and fauna.

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art in Manama has recently been invaded by a swarm of jellyfish. The installation of the beautiful sea creatures, known for their trailing tentacles and transparent umbrella-shaped bodies, is just one of the highlights of Turkish artist Ali Abayoglu’s latest exhibition Entropy of Fusions.

Ali’s solo display was launched in April under the Spring of Culture month of events and continues until September.

The effect of the installation is best noticed in the evening, when it is illuminated with lights. Visitors who are interested in purchasing the artist’s work can collect their chosen exhibits this month.

Ali’s career as an artist began at a very young age. The contemporary artist spent most of his childhood in the workshop of his father, a well-known architect and furniture designer from Istanbul. Those moments spent observing and later assisting his father are reflected in Ali’s work today.

Ali developed a strong foundation in drawing at the Pera Fine Arts High School. He was then selected to attend the University of Marmara Fine Arts Academy, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree with high honours in sculpturing.

Two of his sculptures, Sukufe and Ekmek, were chosen to be exhibited in Pera Fine Arts Gallery in Istanbul. On completing his Master in Fine Arts in 2011, Ali began experimenting with abstract sculptures, paintings and installations made of wood, metal and other materials, all fused with glass.

Ali’s illumination work, created by using a pattern collapse technique, is currently exhibited at some highend hotels. His portfolio includes samples of work from several projects in Turkey and overseas.

Visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net or call 17 230-123.

Muck In Amwaj Marina organises its first obstacles challenge in a one-day event that is meant to promote fun and a charitable sense of giving.

32 May 2014

When? 15-18 Event? Music Concert Venue? Alliance Française Musical performances come together in a ‘Fete de la Musique.’

E Call 17 683-295.

When? 18-22 & 27-29 Event? Workshops Venue? Bahrain Society of Engineers BSE conducts a variety of workshops open to professionals.

E Call 17 810-725.

When? May 19-21 Event? Middle East Petrotech Venue? BIECC Discover the future of refining and petrochemicals at the 9th Middle East conference.

E Call 17 550-033 When? May 20-21 Event? International Leadership Conference Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel Learn how to become an effective and successful leader at this conference.

E Call 17 827-676 When? May 20-22 Event? Women’s Expo 2014 Venue? Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa Women of all ages can address their every need at this expo only for women.

E Call 13 314-003 When? May 23 Event? Taekwondo event Venue? Muharraq Club The Aces Taekwondo Academy’s championship event kicks-off.

E Call 39 658-741.

May 30 | Obstacles challenge | Amwaj Islands

Don’t mind getting worn out in the name of charity? Then participate in the first obstacles challenge organised by Amwaj Marina on May 30. The event promises to test your body’s grit and agility with several gruelling surprises over a stretch of four kilometres.

Some of the challenges are to carry a 20kg weight over 70 metres in a one-metre-deep water, wade through thick mud, climb up and down inclined walls up to five metres high, and trample over uneven terrain, water and mud holes. Participants are expected to complete 12 obstacles in total, some of which will be known only on the day.

Be prepared to lose a sneaker (or two) in the mud; participants are forewarned to wear clothes and shoes

When? May 13, 19 Event? Writer’s workshop Venue? Coral Bay Test your creative juices at this workshop for writers.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? May 24 Event? Comedy theatre Venue? Alliance Française Get tickets for a successful comedy about the corporate world.

E Call 17 683-295.

which they do not mind getting dirty or losing.

“The Amwaj Marina obstacles challenge is for you to test yourself, help others along the course and to have a laugh,” says Adnan Alqassab, the event director.

Participants receive a certificate of achievement on completion of the course.

The event is limited to 200 participants, who should be 16 years of age and above. Sign up before May 21 and secure your place at a fee of BD15.

Call 39 132-102 or visit adnan@adnanevents.com.

When? May 27-28 Event? 4th GCC Productivity Conference Venue? InterContinental Regency Bahrain Discover industry practices for driving employees’ productivity.

E Visit www.origin.com.bh.

When? May 30-31 Event? Kingdom Shopping Festival Venue? Al Fateh Marina Corniche Shop until you drop at this shopping festival.

E Call 17 713-716 or 36 451-527. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings economic indicators and the prospect of billions of dollars’ worth of new projects on the horizon.”

Constructing the Future May 6-8 | Building and property exhibition | BIECC Experts from the construction, interiors and property sectors prepare to showcase their products and knowledge at a trio of trade shows this month.

Three prominent business expos are ready to grab the interest of their audiences in Bahrain as the annual one-stop shop, GulfBID, returns with a remarkable line-up of industry experts.

Hall One of the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre hosts the landmark show, which is the leading exhibition for the construction and building materials sectors in the Northern Gulf.

GulfBID started in 2006, driven by the increasing number of construction and infrastructure projects in this region. The total value of ongoing projects in the GCC region currently stands at USD2,620 billion, with Saudi

Arabia accounting for USD875 billion. The region’s booming construction sector encourages investors to develop building and construction material industries for which Bahrain is an ideal hub.

Following the success and positive feedback of last year’s exhibition, many companies have returned to showcase their top-selling products.

“What is particularly encouraging this year is the number of Bahraini companies, in association with Tamkeen, that continue to put their trust in GulfBID as their B2B networking and promotion opportunity of first choice,” says Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of the organising company, Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions.

“The expectations are that the exhibition will build on positive sentiment of a regional construction sector sustained by healthy

A focus on interiors Gulf Interiors was established in Bahrain three years ago to complement and run alongside the well-established GulfBID exhibition. The show has a unique brand identity, attracting the crème-de-la-crème of the interiors, design and furniture worlds. Reflecting the demand and tastes of the regional market, the show has expanded from year to year.

Gulf Interiors gives a showcase for regional demand for home-grown and renowned international brands, covering sectors including furniture, paints, kitchens, bathrooms, lighting, ceramics, wall coverings and art and accessories segments, in a creatively charged yet distinctly boutique atmosphere.

Investing in property Running parallel to GulfBID is the Gulf Property show, which has quickly established itself as the only dedicated real estate event in Bahrain promoting the region’s property assets in commercial and residential areas. The 2014 show is 60 per cent larger than that of the previous year, and hosts major developers, real estate consultants and professionals.

The expos are supported by public and private sector organisations, including Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Tamkeen Labour Fund, Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, AHK (The German Chambers of Commerce and Industry), British Expertise and Bahrain Property Developers Association. The exhibitions will run from 9am until 9pm.

Call 17 299-123.

Musical Dialogue May 27 | Music concert | Bahrain National Theatre Musical group Pink Martini will be performing at the Bahrain National Theatre on May 27.

Renowned for its wide range of musical genres, spanning classical, jazz and pop, the selfdescribed “little orchestra” has collaborated with artists and played in venues all around the world, including the Middle East.

In what is sure to be an unforgettable concert in Bahrain, the acclaimed group will recapture the magic of their collaboration with the ‘Barbara Streisand of Japan’ Saori Yuki, one of Japan’s most iconic divas, in the remarkable album 1969. Released in 2011, this is a spectacular cultural dialogue featuring Yuki’s soaring vocals and Pink Martini’s stellar musicianship.

Tickets for the event are being sold at Virgin Megastore at the Bahrain City Centre. The show starts at 8pm.

Visit www.moc.gov.bh.

34 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Bonnie & HE Thomas Krajeski

George

US Independence Day Celebrations HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador & Bonnie Krajeski, along with the US Embassy in Manama hosted a reception to celebrate the 238th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America. The event was held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa last month HE Thomas Krajeski, Bonnie Krajeski, HE Sameera Rajab, Information Minister & Vice Admiral John Millar cut the cake in the presence of diplomats

Tim Pounds, HE Thomas Krajeski & Brad Niemann

Danny, Janan & Samar

Betsy with Nasser Alarayedh

Joy, Kathy, Kevin, Natasha & Nahreen

Shaikha Hind & HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho’ala

Shirley & Bonnie

Salma, Iqbal, HE Thomas Krajeski, Mohammed & Nazeema

36 May 2014

Luis, MSgt Clay, Joy & LTC Sullivan

Sofia & Dominic

HE Thomas Krajeski & Michael

Doris, HE Thomas Krajeski & Panos

Bob & Col West

Vice Admiral Millar

Nabeel Ajoor

Waleed Sharif

HE Abdulla Juma

Puneet, Ameena & Akeel

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

HE Mohammed Ali Akbar & HE Karim Al Shakar

Bangladesh National Day HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Bangladeshi Ambassador & his wife Nasreen Akbar hosted a reception to mark the Independence & National Day of Bahrain. The reception attended by diplomats and VIPs was held at the InterContinental Regency’s Al Riffa Ballroom HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Karim Al Shakar cut the cake watched by diplomats

Mehdi Hasan, Nasreen Akbar, HE Mohammed Ali Akbar & HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani, Speaker of the Representatives Council

Mohammad, Mukta, Shanjida & Mehdi

Beverley, Jack, Marietta & Janet

Kweku, Maria & Kai

38 May 2014

Rosita & Haji Ahmad Jumat

HE Shaikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, Qatari Ambassador & Nabeel Ajoor

Paween, Hathaichanok & Sadiq Dawani

Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador

Prof Isa, Gernot Taufmann & Mazin Al Umran

Mukta, Shanjida, Nasreen & Dr Rifat

Rosita, Sukma & Fatima

Svetlana & Geg

Durga & Poonam

Dr Fakhriya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Zara Saleem, Insha & Uzma

Pakistan National Day HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador & Zara Saleem hosted a reception to mark the National Day of Pakistan last month. The event attended by senior diplomats & VIPs featured a fashion show, with clothing from two of Pakistan’s leading fashion houses Elan and Saim.

The event was held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa HE Jauhar Saleem with members of the diplomatic corps at the cake cutting

Nabeel Ajoor, Ahlam & Rahab

Saqiba & Farhan

Suher, Feryal, Manal, Vicky & Deema

Rubeena & Rozina

Uzma & Qutub

Uzair, Ahmed Bin Hindi, Mohammad, Issa & Sajid

Abdul Hussain & Ahmad

Jaser, Tamata & Raja

Junaid & Aneeqa

40 April 2014

Mr Khan, Haroon & HE Jauhar Saleem

Afshan & Hatim

Tariq & Fareeda

Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Two models at the event

HE Karim Al Shakar

Zara & Mala

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Jo Anne & Aisling

Aine & Martina

Paul & Doreen

Claira & Cliodhna

Bahrain Irish Festival Gala Ball As part of the The Bahrain Irish Festival that was held over two days last month, the inaugural Middle East GAA Gala Ball and All Star Award Dinner which featured Irish singer and songwriter Ryan Sheridan was held at the Crowne Plaza

Chris, Michel & Kyle

Leann, Katie, Avril & Rebecca

Derv, Ro & Joanne

Michelle, Amy & Nicole

Mark, Tracey, Tina & Dave

Lorraine, Louise, Mary & Claire

Alana, Naomi & Claire

Claire, Theresa, Orla & Siobhan

Clodagh & Sean

42 April 2014

Barry & Linda

Tricia & Maria

Aine & Joe

Kieran & Aine

Deirdre & Stephanie

Barbara, Louise & Una

Louise & Kat

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

The stunning Ferrari 458 Speciale

Ferrari 458 Speciale Launch Euro Motors, sole dealers for Ferrari automobiles in the Kingdom hosted an exclusive event to mark the launch of the Ferrari 458 Speciale. The launch was attended by Ferrari F1 team drivers Fernando Alonso and Giancarlo Fisichella, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, Euro Motors management & VIPs

Fernando Alonso & Giancarlo Fisichella drive into the launch

Navin, Nawaf Al Zayani & HE Alberto Vecchi

Majid, Hamid, Khalid, Zayed & Nawaf Al Zayani

Giancarlo Fisichella, Fernando Alonso & Hisham

Megan, Anthony, Robert & Penny

Qays Zu’bi, Yasser, Wendy & Jaap

Anthony & Paul

Wendy, Romina Vecchi, HE Alberto Vecchi, Shaikh Salman & Jaap

Abdulrahman, Ahmed & Fahad

Qays with Majid Al Zayani

Pignatti, HE Alberto Vecchi, De Filippis & Bursi

44 May 2014

Anand Agarwal

Guillaume & Gilles

Angel & Pearl

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Uzair, Sufyan, Usman & Mohammed Bin Ishaq

Sufyan & Mawra’s Wedding Reception Mr & Mrs Mohammed Usman hosted a wedding reception for their son Sufyan and his wife Mawra. The reception was held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa

Junaid, Aneeqa, Mawra, Sufyan, Usman, Sabiha & Uzair

Mawra & Sufyan

Mishal, Anwar, HE Abid Sher Ali & Abdul Hameed

Sajid, Mawra, Sufyan & Shaziya

HE Abid Sher Ali, Mawra, Sufyan, HE Shuja Khanzada, Rais & Usman

Zara, Mawra, Sufyan & HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador

Sabiha, HE Nabeel Al Hamer, Mawra, Sufyan, Afnan Al Zayani & Usman

Mona, Mawra, Sufyan & Ahmed

Sara, Hanin, Sara, Rama, Rose, Sarah & Natalie

46 May 2014

Ahmed, Sufyan, Isa & Uzair

Mohammed Salahuddin, Mawra, Sufyan, Mrs Salahuddin & Usman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Lilian Pallikaropoulos

Greek National Day Reception On the occasion of the Greek National Day, the Volunteer Steering Committee of the Greek Speaking Community of Bahrain hosted a special evening at the Capital Club in the Bahrain Financial Harbour. The event was attended by Dr Dhafer Al Umran, Director of Bilateral Relations, the Greek Consul Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos and his wife Lilian and the Cypriot Consul Stefanos Zachariades and his wife Anny Eleana, Maria, Yiannis, Tassos, Irene, Iro, Ron, Lilian & Dina

Iro, Rose, Christine & Irene

George, Stelios, Eleana & Yiannis

Anna, Ebtisam, George, Dana, Tassos, Ria, Vagelis & Antonia

George, Irene, Ron, Iro, Christine & Ryan

Samaya, Seema, Maria & Irene

48 May 2014

Omran, Rowena, Stefanos Zachariades, Anny Zachariades & Iro

Christos, Lia, Christos K & Tia

Rafaela, Eddie, Adnan & Amyra

Iro, Ingrid, Renuka, Angie, Lynne, Zeenat & Jonnan

Nicolas, Teresa & Christina

Jo & Angie

Rose & David

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Yi Wang & HE Li Chen

A Celebration Of China-Bahrain Ties HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador, hosted a reception celebrating 25 years of diplomatic ties between Bahrain and China at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel and Spa. His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa deputised his adviser HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa to attend the ceremony. HE Ghanim bin Fadhel Al Buainain, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs was the guest of honour at the event, which was attended by ministers, diplomats and VIPs

HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, HE Li Chen & HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani cut the cake watched by ministers and VIPs

HE Li Chen, HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa & Yi Wang

Yi Wang, HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Culture & HE Li Chen

HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa

Georgette, Dr Aysha, Ahmed Bhezad, HE Li Chen, Shaikh Khalid Al Khalifa & Wang Jian

Ming, HE Li Chen, Yao & Yi

Wan, HE Li Chen, Yi Wang & Chen

50 May 2014

Khalifa Al Rumaihi & HE Li Chen

Nadeem, HE Li Chen & Abdul Aziz Abbas

Khulood, Ramla & HE Li Chen

HE Ghanim bin Fadhel Al Buainain & HE Li Chen

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj & Khalid Almoayed

HE Karim Al Shakar & HE Li Chen

Waleed Sharif

Nabeel Ajoor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj addresses the guests

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj Honoured HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador & Zeina Testor hosted a reception to honour Jawad Y. Al-Hawaj with the Legion d’Honneur - the highest decoration of the French government, the French National Order of the Legion of Honour Jawad Y. Al Hawaj being honoured by HE Christian Testot

Zeina Testot, Bonnie & Tomoko

Jawad Y. Al Aaaaa Hawaj, Zeina, Bonnie, Naima, Tomoko, Amal, Ameena & Abdulwahab Al Hawaj

Mohammed, Abdulwahab, Jawad, Yousaf & Hassan Al Hawaj

Abdulwahab Al Hawaj, Amal & Yousaf Abdulwahab Al Hawaj

Dr Abbas Radi, Dr Fwad Shahab & Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj

The Al Hawaj family

Abdul Rahim Fakhro, Jawad Al Hawaj, HE Christian Testot & Dr Abdul

52 May 2014

Jano Mouawad

Jalil Al Ansari, Jassim Al Zayani & Mohamed Al Khan

Ahmed Bin Hindi

Sunitha & Shyam

Shyam & Pierre

Khalid Kanoo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Mathew Deakin, HE Dr Mohan & Mala Kumar

Indian Ambassador’s Reception HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala Kumar hosted a reception in honour of Shaikha Hind and the business delegation that accompaned His Majesty King Hamad to India Ahlam, Shanthini, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Shaikha Hind, Mala Kumar & Meera

Abdullah Al Doseri, Hassan Jarrar & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Vijay Baloor, Mohammed Kooheji, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho’ala, Nabeel Ajoor & Yousuf Salahuddin

Khalid Amin, Mohammed Dadabhai & Ahmed Bin Hindi

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Shaikha Hind & Mala Kumar

Kishore, Unni, Bob & Mohammed Almoayyed

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Ahmed Al Mannai

Khulood, Shanthini, Suhair, Shaikha Hind, Mala, Meera, Deema, Harsha & Ahlam

54 May 2014

Bob Thaker & Manoj Bhatia

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Mr Al Mannai

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Khalid Al Zayani

Mala Kumar & Ahmed Jawahery

Pramod Sharma, Ram Singh, Gaurav Gandhi & Mona

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Kostantinos Pallikaropoulos, Manosmilotakis & Lilian

Michael

Greek Ambassador's Visit HE Dr Theodorus J. Theodorou, Greek Ambassador to Kuwait visited Bahrain and met with Greek expatriates in the kingdom. The event was held at the Capital Club last month Manosmilotakis, HE Dr Theodoros J. Theodorou, George & Xondis

Evie, Spyros, Fenia, Lilian & Iro

HE Dr Theodoros J. Theodorou & Kostantinos Pallikaropoulos, Greek Consul in Bahrain with members of the Greek community at the event

Tassos & Stelious

Jaguar Alive Driving Experience Euro Motors & Jaguar held a Jaguar Alive Driving Experience for members of the media and guests at the Block 338 Restaurant & Lounge

Nithin, Moosa, Mo, Shaima, Hannane & Zaid

Aaaaaa

Anthony, Marise & Raymond

Mohammed

56 May 2014

Hannane & Marise

Mahmood

Maeve

Reem & Nazia

Charlie

Anthony & Hisham

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

VK Thomas

Know Your Rights SIMI KAMBOJ A newly launched book collating essential rules of employment aims to inform low-paid workers about their basic rights and obligations in Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain is home to over 200,000 workers from the Indian subcontinent who are employed in semi-skilled and low paid jobs. No other segment of the Kingdom’s expatriate population needs further awareness about their rights; but, inevitably, the knowledge comes when it’s too late.

Indian corporate lawyer VK Thomas has produced an Employee’s Handbook that presents information about LMRA law, labour law, social insurance and immigration rules in an accessible format, mainly for the benefit of low-paid workers.

The handbook was launched by Indian Ambassador Mohan Kumar at the Indian Embassy Open House in April. Thirty thousand copies, in English and Malayalam, will be distributed through the embassy as well as Indian clubs and associations on Labour Day, when many clubs host an outing for labourers.

Copies will also be given out at the medical camps organised by the Indian Community Relief Fund (ICRF).

“Once they arrive in a foreign country, migrant workers become vulnerable, as they live in enclosed labour camps without much contact with the outside world. They don’t know the basic procedures to be followed if they want to change their job and, if they get into difficulty, they need to wait for legal assistance,” says Thomas, who has lived and worked in Bahrain for 37 years. Advocate Wafa Al Ansari, a colleague, assisted Thomas in the project.

As coordinator of legal aid for ICRF, Thomas was a regular member of the Indian Embassy’s Open House

meetings and is aware of troubles that befall migrant workers due to their ignorance of their basic rights.

“It is quite common to hear of workers signing blank papers instead of an employment contract and their passports being taken away as soon as they exit the Bahrain airport. We want workers to go through this book at leisure so that they know where they stand in law,” he says.

For instance, many workers don’t know that they are entitled to a weekly day off and, after eight hours of work, they are eligible to overtime payment. Similarly they need to know that they’re entitled to keep their passports and other identification documents.

Thomas takes pains to clarify that the handbook does not attempt to provide legal advice, but only general advice about employment conditions and rules in Bahrain.

“While people may argue that this information is widely available on the LMRA website, we don’t expect unskilled or semi-skilled workers living in labour camps to be able to access this information online,” he says.

A majority of workers’ problems could be avoided if they were to investigate the company and the employer’s background as well as their job role before arriving in Bahrain, he believes.

Over the coming months, Thomas plans to print the handbook in Hindi and other languages of the Indian subcontinent to make it even more accessible to workers. He’s currently working with sponsors to offset the printing cost.

May 2014 57

interview

Widening Influence

HE Hatun Demirer

SIMI KAMBOJ Despite the close relationship it enjoys with Bahrain, Turkey keeps a rather low profile in the Kingdom. That’s set to change if Ambassador Hatun Demirer has her way.

58 May 2014

Turkey is a natural bridge of civilisations and cultures in a manner similar to Bahrain. Turkish Ambassador to Bahrain, Hatun Demirer was pleasantly surprised by the multicultural atmosphere here and the way locals have embraced foreign nationals.

“Our relationship with Bahrain goes back a long way and we share similar customs, values and traditions. I intend to further develop this cooperation in other spheres,” she says.

Diplomatic relations between the two partners were established in 1973 and the Embassy opened here in 1990.

Bahrain has a 2,000-strong Turkish community, the majority of who are engaged in the hotel and restaurant business. Furthermore, nine Turkish banks operate in the wholesale banking sector in Bahrain with a turnover of billions of dollars.

Bilateral trade between Turkey and Bahrain has grown from US$243.5 million in 2010 to US$371 million in 2013. Turkish banks have continued to operate smoothly in Bahrain throughout the economic downturn, she points out.

Given the presence of the Turkish community here, Ambassador Demirer believes the time has come for Turkey to improve its visibility in the Kingdom.

“Many Bahrainis are eager to learn the Turkish language. My goal is to establish a Turkish institute of language and culture in Bahrain that will promote our heritage in the Kingdom,” she says.

She plans to establish an annual Turkish Week in Bahrain, showcasing the best of her country’s culture, cuisine, entertainment and business propositions.

On the business front, a few Turkish companies have already capitalised on the Bahrain-US FTA by setting up units here. Textile company Orta Anadolu manufactures denim fabric in Bahrain for export to the US and Turkey. Another Turkish furniture company and a dairy manufacturer from Turkey are currently exploring the investment prospects in Bahrain.

New ventures are on the cards in June when the second Joint GCC-Turkish Business Forum will take place in Bahrain, where businessmen from both countries will discuss joint ventures in sectors such as aquaculture, industry, education and energy, as well as oil and gas. The event is hosted by the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) in conjuction with the the Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges and the Federation of GCC Chambers.

Promoting tourism in Turkey is a priority for Ambassador Demirer.

“I believe in people-to-people contact and, once that connection is established, all other cooperation will follow. A private Turkish airline will soon start weekly flights from Bahrain, further improving the air connectivity between the two countries,” she says.

Turkey offers quality university education in wide range of disciplines taught in English language in a multicultural environment. Three experts from two Turkish universities are currently in Bahrain to participate at an exhibition for education and training.

In her earlier stint in the region, Ambassador Demirer took an Arabic language course at a Lebanese university and plans to improve her language skills further during her tenure here. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

PEGASUS REAL ESTATE

Delivering Value SIMI KAMBOJ With the launch of an upcoming project in Juffair, developers Dadabhai Group have tapped an acutely underserved segment in the real estate market in Bahrain.

60 May 2014

Operating in a cautious property market, only developers who are catering to a genuine demand have tasted an ounce of success. Furthermore, as the performance of the market remains areaspecific, Juffair has turned out to be a favoured destination among young Bahrainis as well as the expatriate population.

In this respect, Dadabhai Group’s new project Juffair Heights fits in well with what the younger population desires — well planned, comfortable and modern housing that’s affordable and located in a secure area. Perceived as an upmarket neighbourhood by the significant medium-end population in Bahrain, Juffair is a convenient location from a day-to-day perspective, given the proximity to supermarkets, food and beverage outlets, hospitals and, increasingly, malls.

“Affordability and lifestyle were the main factors in our mind while designing this project. The amenities provided are unprecedented in this price range.

There’s a strong demand in this segment both from young Bahrainis and long-term expatriates who’ve made Bahrain their home,” notes Aziz Mithaiwala, managing director, Pegasus Real Estate, sales consultants for the project.

The project’s twin towers will house 376 units, comprising one and two-bedroom apartments, with a

provision of combining and converting them into large three or four-bedroom units. The accommodation is spacious, with one-bedroom apartments measuring 86.61 square metres starting at BD50,000. Twobedroom units having 113-square-metre area are pegged at BD65,000.

Focus on quality With high-end projects like Abraaj Al Lulu, Platinum Tower and Juffair Skyview in their resume, this project is the Dadabhai Group’s first foray into the mid-market housing segment.

“There’s a strong and healthy demand for such housing in the Bahrain market. The fact that we’ve sold over 30 per cent units in the south tower within three weeks of launch tells us that we’re on the right track,” notes Aziz.

However, he takes pains to point out that affordable housing shouldn’t be confused with low-cost housing or low quality, for that matter, given the standing of the developers.

“I would go as far as saying that the facilities offered in this project are comparable to that of any large luxury residential project. Given the repute of the developer, all its fittings and furnishings are highquality, with zero compromise on finishing standards,” he says. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ceilings in the rooms are generously high and the developers have maximised the usable outdoor space, at a sprawling 58,000 square feet. The development offers two swimming pools as well as an adults’ and children’s recreation area dotted with gazebos, pergolas and cross bridges. A jogging track for adults and a cycling track for children run along the periphery of the outdoor podium.

“There are enough amenities to keep the children engaged within the building.

Entertainment options include mini cinemas, in both towers, and billiard and darts tables as well as virtual reality golf,” Aziz says.

The project, which will be ready for delivery by mid-2016, has also seen a strong interest from Saudi nationals as well as expatriates who are working in Saudi Arabia.

With the property cycle beginning to turn, Aziz is confident that Bahrain has passed the lows in the last couple of years.

“In today’s market situation, things can only go up; the question is how high it will go and how fast can it recover. We’re expecting an annual rental return of around eight per cent nett on Juffair Heights, which can only improve over time,” he says. “The north tower will be launched in the next few months.

Dadabhai Development and Properties Management have tied up with Khaleeji Commercial Bank and are in the final stages of discussion with BBK for credit arrangements.

The developer is also keen on working with Eskan Bank, which has a significant youthful Bahraini clientele.

The affordability factor Given that the twin towers are pitched at the medium-segment population, the developer is ensuring that the homes are easy to maintain over the long term.

“We’ve tied up with a management company, which will maintain the towers for the first three years. We are initiating a number of measures that will minimise the utility costs and maintenance charges in event of repairs,” he says.

For instance, rather than providing centrally air conditioned units, as in most large projects, the developers have installed individual ducted-split units inside every apartment. This will bring down the utility costs since bills will be based on residential rates rather than commercial ones. Such measures mean that maintenance charges for residents will remain low at 0.650 fills per square foot.

Aziz takes pains to stress that Juffair Heights is not meant for people looking purely from an investment perspective or for speculative purposes. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Aziz Mithaiwala

“These are projects where people will aspire to live in, given the facilities. A few model flats are ready for viewing. When people actually visit and see what they’re getting in terms of the layout, amenities and finish, they come back with a very positive feel,” says Aziz.

Even as the real estate market has improved, it remains a price-conscious market and the developers want buyers to have appreciation on their investment. While Juffair Heights may not add significantly to the developer’s bottom line, Aziz believes it’s worth catering to a segment that has remained underserved for some time.

“We’re glad that, with our association with the developers, we’ve proved that it can be done even though the margins may not be high.

The idea is to remain active and create products that bring value to the market.”

“It took the us over a year to research the residential property segment to understand where it is headed, where the demand lies and what the requirements are. Now that the overall business climate is looking up, and the fact that the property market tends to influence the rest of the economy, we’re sure that others will follow suit.”

Looking ahead Given the changing dynamics of the real estate market in Bahrain, further diversification may be on the cards for the Dadabhai Group. Having ventured outside their core speciality once, they are not averse to tapping new segments within the market, whether they are commercial or retail developments.

“We’re looking to be associated with the developer on multiple developments and will make announcements in other segments in due course,” says Aziz.

Meanwhile, the rental market has already picked up in Juffair and Aziz estimates that rents will be up by around five to seven per cent. However, given that Juffair is a crowded neighbourhood with a plethora of properties in supply, rental returns will depend on the quality of the project and the amenities provided.

“Despite the sluggish market, a few developers have done well in Juffair with the sales of their projects. This proves that there is a market out there for a good product, even though it may be sensitive to price at the moment,” he observes.

May 2014 61

interview

Ibrahim Mokdad, Ahmed Yosri and Mohamed Sheikhaldeen

Staying Lean SIMI KAMBOJ Why does Bahrain have so few IT start-ups and why do most fail?

The growth trajectory of this home-grown animation processing company addresses each of these questions.

62 May 2014

Most companies and individuals working in the realm of 3D animation will agree that the process is incredibly complex, involving substantial time and money. After all, DreamWorks spent around US$50 million on a Chinese supercomputer in order to process the animation for How to Train Your Dragon.

The success of Bahraini animation processer Mohamed Sheikhaldeen and his partners rests on the fact that they’ve hit upon a way of saving time and money, using a cloud-based supercomputer.

“We’ve made the process of 3D rendering cheaper and faster through our exclusive tie-up with Amazon web services. Our underlying engine is supercomputing which delivers faster results, but we’ve kept our platform user-friendly. People can simply log into our website, upload a file and download it once it’s done,” says Mohamed, co-founder Exa.io.

This is Mohamed’s fourth attempt at an IT venture and he has recently shelved his fifth idea.

Last October, Exa.io was chosen among the best eight out of 18,000 tech start-ups from all over the world at the Intel Global Business Challenge at Silicon Valley. However, the team who met at University of Bahrain didn’t have an easy start, despite going through a three-month Seed Start-up Accelerator programme in Dubai. This earned them mentoring from Silicon Valley based-TechStars alongside a cash injection of US$20,000.

After spending six months trying to register the company in Bahrain, they gave up, realising that they’d need to invest around BD32,000 in the process.

They opted to incorporate in Delaware instead, paying US$300 and, on the third day, Mohamed had the legal documents in his hand, delivered through FedEx. “Bahrain offers enormous support to start-ups through Tamkeen and Bahrain Development Bank, but the ecosystem is not start-up friendly. The legislation is tedious and designed for big corporations. The low operational cost and support from institutions does count but it’s hard to get there in the first place,” observes Ibrahim Mokdad, a co-founder.

The company serves clients in Malaysia, Spain, UK, Canada and the US who work in interior design, 3D animation, advertising agencies, architecture, engineering, manufacturing and even students.

“We’re very frugal and have managed to stay lean by remaining focused on our core competency while delegating everything else. Our proximity to TechStars has allowed us to have an exclusive collaboration with Amazon web services,” says Mohamed.

Exa.io is partnering with a Japanese firm that’s involved in simulation work for government projects and another organisation in Spain with a studio for processing architecture and interior design.

They have plans to open virtual offices in Malaysia and Jordan soon.

“The trouble with Bahrain is the mindset,” Ibrahim believes. “Entrepreneurs here are averse to risk and the business community isn’t IT-oriented. In Silicon Valley, we got free advice from many experts. Around here, no one wants to talk to you unless you have a million dollars in your pocket.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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spotlightthismonth JAGUAR LAND ROVER

Backseat Chat

Tracing her own footprints, Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa talks to Bahrain This Month about her influences in life and the legacy she intends to leave behind for the women of this country.

64 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

An astute entrepreneur with a keen social conscience, Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, has been an inspiration for many women in the region. Chairperson of the Mother and Child Welfare Society and a member of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she joins George F Middleton in a Range Rover Evoque for a backseat chat as they traverse the roads of Muharraq and Reef Island.

George: Shaikha, as well as being an entrepreneur, you’re specifically known for your role in community service. Has social work always been your calling?

Shaikha Hind: Yes, indeed. I had been exposed to social work in my early childhood. My mother and grandmother, who are both my role models, were always involved in community work; so I believe it got instilled in me quite early on in life.

George: You are the chairperson of the Bahrain Professional Businesswomen’s Club. Could you tell us how this organisation helps female entrepreneurs in the country?

Shaikha Hind: The main objective [of the Bahrain Professional Businesswomen’s Club] is to provide incubators for women, as well as young men, who wish to start their own business. They benefit from the premises, the subsidies that are given by the Bahrain Development Bank, and the guidance given so they can start their own ventures.

George: The Mother and Child Welfare Society is very dear to you and your mother’s heart. Are there any particular projects or initiatives that you are developing at the moment?

Shaikha Hind: At present we are concentrating on training the staff. We always feel there is room for professional growth and career development and we help them train and update their skill set in whichever field they belong to.

George: How important do you think the role of women is in Bahrain’s economy in general?

Shaikha Hind: It has been noticed worldwide that women are an important component of economic development and we are no exception. Bahrain shows significant growth in the participation of women in the country’s economic machinery and I am very proud to say that there are four female members in the current chamber of commerce and industry.

George: Could you name some women that you truly admire?

Shaikha Hind: Zaha Hadid, the famous Iraqi architect who now lives in the UK, was my classmate in AUB, when I was studying in Beirut, Lebanon. I am really impressed by her strong character and perseverance. Being an Arab woman, she has proved herself and made a mark in the western world.

The Range Rover Evoque is now available at Euro Motors, the official distributor for Jaguar Land Rover in Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Shaikha Hind with George F Middleton

George: Work can be particularly demanding for someone like you, who’s involved in a number of projects and activities. How do you like to relax?

Shaikha Hind: Certainly, spending time with my family is very important. However, I make sure I take time out for myself so I can unwind. I like to exercise, maybe not on a daily basis, but as much as I can. I take a break from everything and do something that relaxes me, be it yoga or Pilates.

BLIPP THIS PAGE TO: WATCH BACKSEAT CHAT INTERVIEW WITH SHAIKHA HIND. WATCH RANGE ROVER EVOQUE’S FEATURES AND ACCESSORIES VIDEO EXPLORE THE RANGE ROVER EVOQUE CONTACT EURO MOTORS

May 2014 65

bystander

BTM 200th Issue Gala Dinner To celebrate the publishing milestone of 200 issues of Bahrain This Month magazine, Red House Marketing hosted the Citi Life Maison Rouge Gala Dinner & Theatre Spectacular at the Gulf Hotel’s Gulf Convention Centre. The night was a feast of entertainment direct from Broadway and The West End and was sponsored by Jaguar Land Rover. The event also featured the launch of Citibank’s Citi Life credit card

The entrance to an evening of non-stop world class entertainment

Andrea, George, Anne & Gianne Middleton

HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador, Mrs Juma, HE Abdulla Juma & Bonnie Krajeski

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador, Zeina Testot, Gernot Taufmann, Dr Dhafer Al Umran.

Dr Jihan Al Umran & HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador

Anne, Andrea, Gigi, George, Lucy, Ronnie, Bayden & Jason at the cake cutting

66 May 2014

George & Anne

HE Karim Al Shakar & George

Jalil Al Ansari & HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho’ala

Romina Vecchi, George & HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador

Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

HE RKMA Rajakaruna, Sri Lankan Ambassador & Chandini Rajakaruna

Nor Hayati & HE Ahmed Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador

HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador & George

Navneet Kampani & George Middleton

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

BTM 200th Issue Gala Dinner

Amit, Imran & Gautam

Manfred, Dr Iris & Ronnie

Maeve, Mohammed, Debbie, Wendy & Jaap

Pauline, Lauren, Marie & Eric

Hussain & Rashida

Debbie & Olivier

Adeela, Shaikha, Rowena & Omran

Rupert Hearn & Belinda Hutton

Mehdi Hasan & Shanjida

Bless & David

Eibhlin & Jonty

Mr & Mrs Mohammed Salahuddin

Nadia & Moyez

Barbara & George

Jo & Ahmed

Shirley & Dick

Filippo & Cristina

Kaoru & Mark

Mr & Mrs John Joseph

Kirsty & Kingsley

Emma & Hans

Geg & Domitille

George, Charmain & Michael

Mr & Mrs Navneet Kampani

Iroslav & Svetlana

Nadia & Mustafa

68 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

BTM 200th Issue Gala Dinner

Ron, Garfield, HE Abdul Nabi Al Sho’ala & Steve

George with Mr & Mrs Momen Shawqi

Sumaya, Shaikha & Rowena

Parakshit, Vijay & Bharti

George & Dr Essa

George & Remy

Navneet, Qays & Karina

Ali & Abdul Rahman

Karina & Anil

Mahdi, Masood & Gemma

Guests enjoying the show

Citibank’s Citi Life credit card being launched with Devender Aggarwal, George & Navneet Kampani

70 May 2014

Dr Fakhriya

HE Karim Al Shakar

Ahmed

Alex & George

Majid Al Zayani

Tania

Jano Mouawad

Navneet, Marise & Lalit

Kaizad & George

Victoria

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

BTM 200th Issue Gala Dinner

David, Chelsea, Andrea & Ronnie

A dancer performs on stage

Guests at the event

Team Citibank

George & Imran

72 May 2014

Dr Jayshree & Dr Nagesh

Mr & Mrs Kaizad Sanjana

George & Kate

Heather & Janet

Anushka & Vincilla

Rohit, Bassem & Lini

Womba & Namasiku

One of the performers

Eibhlin & Vanessa

Brett & Nina

Enrica & Alex

Sterner & Fritzie

Karim & Meave

Shandra & Heather

Judith & Faisal

George & Ala’a

An acrobatic performance

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Saar Mall

is an ultimate luxury shopping and leisure destination: the perfect place to shop, eat and meet

The opening hours for now: Geant open At: 8:00am to 10:00 PM and other outlets from 9:00am to 10:00 PM Tel: +973 17580445 | Fax: +973 17580446 | Website: www.darabh.com

bystander

BTM 200th Issue Gala Dinner

Sunny, Garfield, Ron, Jill, Jules & Elizabeth

Alia, Anisha, Karen & Francoise

Renuka, Irwin & Sharon

Michael, Charmain & Doris

Joyce & Ram

Raymond & Kiki

Anne & Sadiq

Pierric, Charlie, Esky, Percy & Manijeh

Rupert, Mahmood & Belinda

Malabar Gold models

Dancers on stage

74 May 2014

Mitesh & Nivita

Another dance being performed

Shandra, Christine, Iro & Sameera

Layal & Rami

Nader, after-dinner speaker

Chelsea, Andrea, Gigi, Anne, Gerry & Alison

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BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE-TEL: 1668 6213, SEEF MALL- TEL:1668 6223

bystander

BTM 200th Issue Gala Dinner

Hamza, Marise, Zilia, Farheen & Sanhita

Daniel & Sari

Elma, Stella, Zilia & Katherine

Neville & Nonie

Rafeeq, Sam, Sabu, Kumar & Tom

Ian & Randa

76 May 2014

Atul & Deema

Priya, Anil, Nicolas & Gina

Elveira, Pascal, Jaap & Wendy

George & Nick

Charlie & Pauline

Svetlana, Deepa & Anne

Steven, Megan & David

Angela

One of the singers

Mr & Mrs Farooq

Puneet

Rodney

Saud & Raihana

Mohammed & George

Anwar

Lynn

‘Jai Ho’ being performed by Indian women

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Chey, Lani & Tigist

Chris

Alliance Francaise Reception The Alliance Francaise alongwith the French Embassy in coordination with Al Bander Hotel & Resort held a Creole dinner & music evening at the resort last month The band entertains guests Frederic & Pape

Solanj, Jonathan, Steve & Vincent

78 May 2014

Philippe, Simona & Jack

Neman & Najat

Patrick & Sandrine

Carole & Adnan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

supporting ideas achieving success

The Crucible At St Christopher's School The School of Speech and Dramatic Arts in association with St Christopher's School brought to the stage the timeless work of Arthur Millar's The Crucible. The play was held at the St Christopher’s School Drama Hall in Isa Town

A scene from the play

Tom, Jolee, Julia & James

Elze & May

Aliska & Zayna

Roohi & Razia

Daniel, Zainab & Imran

Jamila & Celinda

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For more details visit: www.bdb-bh.com

Prachi & Vikram

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jennifer & Tom

May 2014 79

bystander

Mala Kumar & Shaikha Huda

Homa, Mala & Shaikha Fajer

Mala Kumar Luncheon Mala Kumar, wife of HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador hosted a ladies luncheon at her residence in Saar last month

Mala & friends

Marie, Lynne, Mala, Mariam & Nadia

Shaikha Layla, Karina, Mala, Rashida & Sameera

Shaikha Maha, Mala & Anisa

Leila, Sherry, Mala & Nabila

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Zeina Testot, Shaikha Hind, Aysha & Sarah

Zeina Testot Cheque Presentation Zeina Testot, wife of HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador personally presented a cheque of BD 4,055 to the Children and Mothers Welfare Society last month. The event was held her residence

Zeina Testot presents the cheque to Shaikha Hind, President of the Society

Zeina Testot & Shaikha Hind with guests at the event

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Shaikha Hind addresses the guests

Jawad Y Al Hawaj & Abbas Hussain

HE Christian Testot

Mohammed

May 2014 81

bystander

BMW 2 Series Launch Euro Motors, sole dealers for BMW automobiles in the kingdom held a launch for the all-new BMW 2 Series. The launch was held at the Royal Golf Club

Paul, Greig & Shahab

The all-new BMW 2 Series

Paul with David Robertson

82 May 2014

Basma & Lubna

Ayoob, Adel & Hameen

David

John Badour, Paul Yates & Shahab

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Brad & Shaikh Abdulla

Maher & Oday

UCB Multimedia Exhibition The University College of Bahrain (UCB) held a Multimedia Exhibition at UCB's Janabiya Hall last month. The exhibition was opened by digital artist Khalid Muharraqi Noora, Diana, Khalid Muharraqi, Khairrya, Nada & Noura Rawan, Salima, Nada & Noura

Fatima, Majeda, Zeeshan & Maha

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Khalid Muharraqi opens the exhibition

Ali & Cobus

Muqeen

Sebastian & Yousif

May 2014 83

bystander

Renzo, Samuel, Henry & Elikem

Niall

David, James, Henry & Bless

Omer

Liam & Samer

Elikem

Henry's Birthday Party Henry celebrated his birthday with parents David & Bless, brother James and a number of his friends at Star Troopers in Amwaj Lagoon Henry & friends... locked & loaded!

Henry & friends waiting to cut his cake

Cess & Bless

Amwaj Marina Obstacles Challenge Charity Event

Friday 30th May 2014

For More Information & Registration:Please Contact : Event Director Mr. Adanan Al Qassab Mob: + 973 39132102 Email: adnan@adnanevents.com

BD 15 Online Partner

84 May 2014

Per Participant

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Saara

Mansoor, Santhosh, Lobo & Rajesh

Saara Mansoor Birthday Party Saara Mansoor celebrated her 7th birthday with her family and friends at the Best Western Olive Hotel in Juffair last month Saara with her family

Salam, Dharma, Mansoor & Shankar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Asghar, Razak, Mansoor, Pappan & Sabitha

Mr & Mrs Mansoor with Himanshu & Sujay

Soman

May 2014 85

bystander

Karen

Elizabeth with her birthday cake

Ashish

Elizabeth George Birthday Elizabeth George celebrated her birthday with a number of her friends at the Upstairs Downstairs Restaurant in Adliya last month Sabrina. Ashish, Saswati, Bilijana, Isabella, Nilda, Karen, Elizabeth & Linda

Gordon, Elizabeth, Maggie & Simon

Sabrina, Saswati & Linda

Bilijana & Nilda

Elizabeth & George

Saswati, Elizabeth, Bilijana & Linda

Andrew

Richard Keys and Andy Gray At The British Club Top football pundits and BT Sports presenters, Richard Keys and Andy Gray gave an after-dinner speech at the British Club. The event was organised by The British Club and Bahrain True Blues Rangers Supporters Club Andy Gray, HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Richard Keys, Ewan, Gordon & Mike

S T U D I O S

86 May 2014

Hamza, Chris, Dod & Tony

Steve, Mark, Cuthbert & Jack

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lifestyle

this month

Go Professional

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The GT Academy is a driver discovery/ development programme that started in 2008 through a collaboration between Gran Turismo and Nissan. Online qualifiers are held within Gran Turismo and the top qualifiers are invited to national finals in each participating country. Those who pass this participate in a race camp held at Silverstone in the UK for the final selection.

The winner undergoes an intensive driver development programme designed by Nissan and will participate in races around the world as a professional driver. The 2014 GT Academy is the sixth instalment of the initiative. i Call Visit Facebook.com/Nissan.Bahrain or Facebook.com/GTAcademy or Twitter.com/ PlayStation_ME.

Fashion, p88

Motoring, p94

Playtime, p114

After the successful inaugural competition in 2013, Nissan GT Academy has racing fans in Bahrain screaming for more. After turning Salman Al-Khater, who was once a mechanical engineer, into a class winning race driver in his first attempt, GT Academy Middle East gears up to offer the same opportunity to another motorsport maestro from the region. The success of the academy has been outstanding as the unique programme has given PlayStation gamers the chance to move from virtual racing on Gran Turismo to the reality of actually becoming a professional driver.

“Demonstrating innovation as a unique concept and raw excitement among thousands of competitors, GT Academy rightly expresses Nissan’s beliefs,” says Paul Baker, the general manager of Nissan at Y K Almoayyed & Sons.

First launched in 2008, GT Academy was designed to identify gamers with the most natural racing talent in the virtual world, before working with them to transform them into reallife racers. The selection is initially made through times set on a customised stage within the Gran Turismo game, which is now in its sixth generation.

The fastest gamers in Bahrain then have the

chance at a regional final event, before the very best head to Race Camp, where they are assessed on their fitness, mental attitude and car control. Ultimately, the winner gets a seat behind the wheel of a Nissan 370Z GT race car.

Salman Al- Khater has driven the Dubai 24Hrs held earlier this year. Previous winners of the GT Academy around the world are now regular racing drivers. The first round of the Bahrain leg of the competition was held at the Bahrain City Centre from April 25 to April 28. This month will see the second round, which will be held at the Nissan Showroom in Sitra from April 29 until May 31.

Dining, p135

After Dark, p153

Do you think you have what it takes to be a racer?

Jump into the driver’s seat and find out what it’s really like to compete in the big leagues.

May 2014 87

fashion

AEROPOSTALE

Young Spirit It is time to let colours invade your wardrobe.

Look for staple pieces like polo shirts, jeans and graphic tees to enjoy the outdoors.

88 May 2014

Sun kissed The new girls’ collection from Aeropostale draws inspiration from the sea, using oceanic blues, turquoise washes and crisp whites. A Mediterranean vibe is delivered through the usage of bright orange, red, green, pink and yellow.

Prints are mixed with embroidery; these are best paired with denim and chambray shorts, vests, trousers and jackets. The summer mode includes pastel hues and pops of neon. Stripes, dots and zigzag patterns are must-haves this season. The ‘90s influence is evident in the use of layering and cropped silhouettes along with studs, zippers and cut-outs.

Nautical touches The coastal influence can be spotted in Aeropostale’s boys’ collection. Bottle green, grey and sun-baked red spices up the range of denims and chinos. Novelty textures and lunar dye washes in knits are the eyecatching pieces of the collection.

Pastels can be found throughout the line in different dipdye techniques and subtle washes, creating a gradient result. Tropical and photo-real graphics add a fashionable twist to the pieces. Street and sport styles are reflected in the outfits that deliver a youthful surfer vibe. i Call 16 680-100 (Bahrain City Centre). www.bahrainthismonth.com

NATURALIZER

Style and Comfort Sophistication is always on-trend. Find the pair of shoes that will accompany you this summer and add a classic touch to your look.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Neutral shades and subtle details are the highlights of Naturalizer’s new collection. Warmer days demand comfortable sandals; this brand offers an array of versatile styles. Everyday shoes get extra details in the form of girly bows and stripes. Ballerinas, flats, peep-toes, wedges, clogs and pumps are painted in black, nude, coral, white, grey and the metallic duo of gold and silver.

If you want to add a creative touch to your look, opt for colour-blocking rounded or pointed shoes. Ones with three contrasting shades are contemporary; perfect for a laid-back look.

The brand is committed to designing women’s shoes that look beautiful and promote the wellbeing of feet. Footwear for formal and casual occasions boasts classic styling and offers stability, flexibility and cushioning.

Naturalizer guarantees your feet visit the spa daily; all you need to do is slip your feet in the comfy pairs of shoes from the brand. i Call 16 686-213 (Bahrain City Centre) or 16 686-223 (Seef Mall).

May 2014 89

fashion THE CHILDREN’S PLACE

Fun with Fashion

Is your child’s wardrobe ready for summer? Playful, versatile and comfortable pieces are mandatory items for the season.

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The Children’s Place is your go-to destination for fun and colourful fashion for your little ones. The store offers great summery looks for boys and girls of all ages in addition to cute accessories that add glamour to the outfit.

The brand creates fun graphic t-shirts and comfy cotton shorts for the outdoors. Boys can enjoy bold orange, green and aqua shades paired with subtle tones like grey, navy and white. Tank tops, polos, plaid shorts and sandals are the hot picks for the warm days.

If you’re looking for formal attire, choose from the

variety of vests, button-down shirts, ties and socks and put together a creative look.

Girls can mix and match fun pieces like solid and printed tops, shorts and skirts. Comfy and colourful elements will put your little princess in the mood for the sunny days. The graphic tees feature cool phrases and girly illustrations and work best with the ready-to-wear jeggings. For a fancy look, opt for full skirts and matching tops. Finalise the look with a pair of frilly sandals. i Call 16 686-227 (Bahrain City Centre). www.bahrainthismonth.com

HUSH PUPPIES

Reinventing the Casual

This footwear brand is set to redefine what we understand to be ‘casual’.

Check out their latest collection and go bold this season!

Hush Puppies’ spring/summer 2014 collection is created in line with the brand’s heritage. Known to be the footwear line to have invented the casual trend, Hush Puppies has chosen to go bold this year and reinvent ‘the casual’.

Casual is stylish. Casual is colourful. Casual is refined.

Casual feels good. The brand’s aim is that people will no longer consider ‘casual’ to be synonymous with ‘boring and predictable’.

According to Hush Puppies, casual can be playful, dressy, or laid-back. Above all, casual is inspired. The brand moves this trend forward by introducing collections which are authentic to its iconic style and relevant to emerging global consumers.

Heritage has always been at the heart of Hush Puppies.

For this spring and summer, it taps into specific eras of that heritage by borrowing from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s.

The brand generates a line that harkens retro, pushes modern and brims with detail.

Hush Puppies stores are located in Bahrain City Centre, Seef Mall, The Jawad Dome, Ramli Mall, Isa Town Mall and Bahrain Mall. The brand is also available at Shoe Citi outlets. i Call 17 179-676.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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motoring

Lexus GS

Family Affair Safety, comfort and innovation are all winning factors when you are on your search for the ultimate family vehicle.

Once you start a family, you might as well bid your twodoor days goodbye. However, there is no need to compromise on style and settle for the good old minivan.

With all the fantastic options appealing to family car buyers, you will find that it has become easy to find something both sophisticated and child-friendly. From large SUVs to contemporary crossovers, we round up the best options in town.

AA Bin Hindi With over four decades of providing quality car services, AA Bin Hindi Group offers families a range of value for money motoring options. With a sleek new look and upgraded luxury features, the Kia Optima combines sheer style with the efficiency that suits a young family.

SUV lovers will appreciate the dynamics and affordability of the Kia Sorento. The mid-sized crossover is well-equipped with top-of-the-line technologies, with which owners will definitely get their money’s worth. i Call 17 408-000.

Ahmed Zayani & Sons Ahmed Zayani & Sons are the renowned dealers of Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, Skoda and the prestigious Bentley motors. The 2014 Chrysler 300, a great family car for the sophisticated parent, brings together top-notch materials and quality craftsmanship. It is a vehicle with excellent

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performance, superior handling and maximum road comfort. A bigger alternative is the Dodge Durango. The SUV has upscale interiors and rugged good looks, and offers a standout performance. i Call 17 238-822.

Al Haddad Motors Another pick for Bahrain’s elite, Al Haddad Motors are the sole distributors of the ultra lavish Mercedes-Benz. The executive size CLS sedan is perfect for the businessperson who has a family. This eye-catching model is powerful with a host of high-tech features that will keep you connected to the outside world while on the road.

One of the most convincing interpretations of effortless superiority is the M-Class. Powerful, dynamic and expressive, it ensures the highest degree of driving pleasure. i Call 17 785-454.

Almoayyed Motors Almoayyed Motors has been the authorised dealer of Ford vehicles in Bahrain since 1982. Through the years, it has become one of the best Ford dealerships worldwide, a title backed by a number of prestigious awards. Nissan, Infinity and Lincoln are prestigious automakers distributed by YK Almoayyed.

The biggest in the range of SUVs at Ford is the Explorer.

Adventurous and powerful, it has a V6 3.5L, 290hp engine and is spacious enough to seat up to seven passengers www.bahrainthismonth.com

comfortably. With its MyFord Touch and MyKey systems, the Explorer is the ideal choice for bigger families.

One sedan that is great for family use is the Nissan Altima. Over-delivering on the basics, with an exquisite exterior and interior design, this model rewards its owner with a unique driving experience and segment-defining technology. The new and improved model looks and feels more upscale than ever. i Call 17 737-373.

Behbehani Brothers Behbehani Brothers offers drivers in Bahrain a range of Audi, Porsche, Volkswagen, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge models. The Audi Q7 is a luxury crossover that focuses on comfortable seating for the whole family, as well as the ideal balance of efficiency and looks.

A local favourite is the Jeep Grande Cherokee. The SUV sets extraordinary standards for performance, luxury and even fuel economy. It offers power, passenger protection and safety. i Call 17 459-933.

Euro Motors Euro Motors features premium brands, such as MINI, Land Rover, Rolls Royce, Ferrari and Maserati. Although the dealership is known to host some of the most exclusive sports cars in the market, customers are spoilt for choice with the number of suitable family options as well.

The Land Rover LR4 is one of the most capable off-road vehicles, perfect for a big family. A statement of luxury, the Jaguar XJ is a dramatic combination of beauty, luxury and power. It provides agility and delivers a refreshingly dynamic driving experience. For the passenger, the cabin is built for stretching out and relaxing. i Call 17 750-750.

EK Kanoo One of the oldest vehicle distributors in the Kingdom, E K Kanoo was established in 1952. With the widely popular Toyota and Lexus cars under its canopy, those looking for family cars will be spoilt for choice.

Offering a mix of performance, luxury and technology, the Lexus GS seamlessly blends sophistication and efficiency with the needs of a family without compromising on style.

With a heritage that dates back over half a century, the Land Cruiser’s unrivalled off-road performance and durability have earned it a rock-solid reputation for being a reliable family vehicle. i Call 17 730-730.

First Motors First Motors is the Kingdom’s Hyundai dealer, offering drivers a chance to get value-for-money purchases. The Korean car manufacturer offers several affordable sedans suitable for family needs, but one particular model has sparked our interest — the Genesis. This is the automaker’s priciest vehicle and manages to combine luxury with effortless power. Another option is the midsized crossover SUV, the Santa Fe. With exceptional style, you will surely turn heads if you are driving this around town. i Call 17 121-121. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mercedes Benz M Class

Motorcity Motorcity’s automotive biography has been shaped as a result of years of success since its establishment in the year 2005. Motorcity’s roots stretch across the Kingdom, providing the public with three showrooms, three easy-access facility centers and a unified service centre for its brands.

The Volvo S80 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride and features an exquisite Scandinavian design. It boasts materials such as wood and leather. The all-new Subaru Forester has good efficiency, added power and increased cargo volume. The SUV provides a comfortable ride with a roomy interior — great for a family. i Call 17 736-222.

Zayani Motors From a modest start with only one facility in the Kingdom, Zayani Motors operates out of two state-of-the-art sales and after-sales facilities. The Mitsubishi Galant sport sedan offers drivers a mix of style and practicality, without breaking the bank. From its remarkably fleet-footed agility to its powerful engine and abundant luxury features inside, Galant never ceases to engage and impress.

The Peugeot 5008 is well-designed; so it doesn’t look too big and van-like. It is still spacious enough for seven passengers. From a safety perspective, the car possesses two front airbags and curtain airbags all the way down the cabin, so that everyone is protected in a crash situation. i Call 17 703-703.

Land Rover LR4

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motoring

BMW 2-Series

EURO MOTORS

Dynamic Drive BMW’s small coupé has been revamped and renamed; the 2-series is now upon us. As with other models, the coupé variant of the 1-series has been given its own identity.

The BMW 2-series does not share design features with its hatchback sibling. It has a more coherent and natural coupé shape than its predecessor. The roofline is more streamlined and its stance, combined with the wider body and lights, provides a look that is more akin to a fully fledged sports coupé.

As the car is still compact, like its predecessor, the driving dynamics should be excellent — especially in the range-topping M235i. The car is also larger than the 1-series coupé, which translates to an improved ride quality and a more predictable chassis on the limit.

The 2-series range boasts an enviable array of technology, with everything from automatic bi-xenon headlights to BMW’s ConnectedDrive — a system that allows the car’s infotainment to pair with your smartphone, offering the driver greater control.

Starting the engine BMW’s trump card in recent years has been its engines.

They are often more powerful and more responsive, yet boast lower emissions, than rival manufacturers. In recent years, BMW has increasingly used part sharing as a way to cut costs. This means that even the smaller vehicles in the range are being fitted with the same engines that power the flagship cars.

The technical specifications are impressive. The 220i

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sprints from zero to 100km/h in seven seconds and then to a top speed of 250km/h. The M235i completes the same dash in 4.8 seconds, with an electronically limited maximum of 250km/h. This level of performance has always been the preserve of bigger and more expensive cars in the range. The 2-series has already made its case for a performance bargain.

A matter of style The 2-series is available in three different trims — Sport Line, Modern Line and M-sport. These are basically aesthetic options, with each line providing a choice of alloys, colours, interior trims and logos.

BMW’s 2-series looks set to be a class leader with exceptional levels of performance and equipment, a unique sporting style and excellent value for money. i Call 17 750-750. www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE ALL NEW 2014 Starting

from

500 BD 8, Suzuki Dzire

MOHAMMED JALAL & SONS

Small Beginnings This new sedan shows that less can often be more. We take a closer look at the car, which will soon be on everyone’s wish list.

The Suzuki Dzire is a funky small sedan based on the Swift chassis, sharing engines and interiors with its hatchback counterpart. As the regular Dzire is such a fun car to drive, only good things can be expected from the Dzire.

This car offers an exceptionally good deal. The Swift has proven itself as a reliable, exciting little car thanks to its amalgamation of simple ingredients and a low price. By turning it into a small sedan, Suzuki has expanded its potential customer base, as many would prefer a proper boot in lieu of a hatchback.

As the Dzire differs only in its body when compared to the regular Swift, it shares the same go-kart-like handling — making it an agile and fun car to drive.

Suzuki’s reputation has improved considerably in the past decade as they focused on what their rivals offered and ensured they could match that as well as add some extra value.

The Dzire is considered one of the best value and most enjoyable small sedans on the market. With the addition of a sedan body, Suzuki may steal the thunder of its rivals.

Grab it now The Suzuki Dzire is now available at the Mohammed Jalal & Sons showroom for a promotional price of BD4,800. The motoring firm offers a special gift with every purchase of the car — the HTC Desire smartphone.

. . . . .

Free Registration Free Comprehensive Insurance 5 years Unlimited KM warranty Trade - in Available Road Side Assistance

Mohammed Jalal & Sons - Automotive Division Showroom: 17252606 / Mob: 39813081 / 66331982 / 39915109 automotive@jalal.com

Follow us on:

Suzuki,Bahrain

@BahrainSuzuki

Suzuki Bahrain

i Call 17 252-606. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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motoring

Jeep Cherokee

AHMED ZAYANI & SONS

Stepping into a New Era This no-compromise midsize SUV adapts cuttingedge technology and design features to set a new standard for its segment.

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The new generation of the Jeep mid-size sport utility vehicle is a key model in expanding the success of the brand in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region in 2014. Drivers are in for new levels of efficiency, entertainment and comfort plus five-star safety features that project the brand into the future.

“The 2014 Jeep Cherokee will be the benchmark for mid-size SUVs with a new level of on-road driving dynamics and fuel economy, while at the same time improving the 4x4 capability that customers expect,” says Jack Rodencal, managing director of Fiat Chrysler Middle East. “The model boasts a new design, a nine-speed automatic transmission and two advanced engines, class-leading capability from three innovative 4x4 systems, more than 70 safety features and a host of new technology features.”

Customers are offered the unique combination of legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, superior on-road ride and handling, revolutionary design, world-class craftsmanship and innovative technology. Available in both two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, a choice of three new, sophisticated four-wheel-drive systems that deliver benchmark off-road capability are offered.

The SUV debuts a new exterior, designed with a global appeal. Fluid, sleek lines highlight the efficient, wind-splitting upper body. The rugged, protective lower body conveys the

legendary capability that is characteristic of every Jeep.

The Cherokee has a powerful stance, an aggressive wheel-to-body proportion and a commanding road presence. The aggressive approach and departure angles contribute to the best-in-class capability.

A key element in the front is the ‘waterfall’ hood with the iconic peaked, seven-slotted grille, which includes a crisp, horizontal snap — a feature found in many classic Jeep models. The hood is clearly defined and separated from the front fenders in a modern interpretation of the brand’s design heritage.

Advanced LED lighting technology enhances the unique proportions of the front, boasting daytime running lamps (DRL) and available Xenon headlights. Forward lighting features a unique DRL shape that plays a dominant role in the fresh front-end proportion, giving the impression of a slim headlamp. Contemporary full LED tail lamps are an integral part of the rear backlight graphic, making the vehicle look stronger.

The interior of the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee is modern, inviting and comfortable. A sophisticated, refined design, hand-sculpted forms, signature design cues, highquality materials, precision craftsmanship and attentionto-detail raise the bar in the mid-size SUV segment. i Call 17 238-822. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mercedes-Benz-C-Class

AL HADDAD MOTORS

Refined Performance Though you would expect any Mercedes to be a great car, the C-class coupé is truly surprising. It is a welldesigned car, subtle, elegant and sportive.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The differences between the Mercedes C-class coupé and the sedan are minimal but effective. The lower roofline and suspension allow for a more streamlined look.

The interior is a very pleasant place in which to spend time. Upon first sight, you could mistake the seats as too sporty but, after a while, you will realise that they are possibly the best chairs ever to have been fitted to something with four wheels. They are comfortable, supportive and trimmed in the finest leather.

The materials in the cabin are of excellent quality, with controls all well positioned for the driver. Thankfully, there isn’t an over-abundance of buttons and switches, unlike many modern cars.

The standout feature of this car is the ride quality. The C-class is supremely well damped; bumps and imperfections on the road are soaked up with ease not only in terms of feeling, but also sound. Alongside this smooth ride, Mercedes has found a way of providing exemplary body control. There is hardly any roll and the car can be driven swiftly without losing composure. The balance between a cosseting cruiser and a performance coupé is great.

In this age of small capacity turbocharged engines, having a V6 under the bonnet is something of a luxury.

The 3.5-litre engine provides an aural quality and a throttle response that cannot be matched by forcedinduction engines. The 302hp and 370nm of torque this engine develops is enough for most needs.

When cruising, the C350 will quickly shuffle into the highest gear — allowing relaxed progress. Select the ‘sport’ mode and the car will hold on to gears a little longer allowing the direct injection V6 to stretch its legs.

Another area where the C-class excels is technology.

This updated model includes Linguatronic — a voicecontrol system for operating the infotainment system, an intelligent lighting system (with daytime running lights) and a host of safety systems, such as Blind Spot Assist, which is particularly useful, and Attention Assist.

The C-class coupé is the best of both worlds — rapid and agile yet comfortable and relaxed. i Call 17 785-454.

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motoring

Sitra Motor City showroom

MOTORCITY

Endless Benefits Three major automotive brands are highlighted this month with the launch of a new showroom and a revamped website.

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Motorcity’s commitment to offer an exceptional experience to its customers has been a non-stop endeavour. Its new dedicated showroom hosts three major automotive brands: Volvo, Subaru and Citroën.

“Motorcity is a perfect example of synergy between various brands with different origins, characteristics and strengths in the automotive industry. We are committed to our customers and will continue to expand our presence with dedicated sales and after sales service facilities, all aimed at serving the customer faster and better,” says Waleed Kanoo, chairman of Motorcity.

The showroom is organised into three main dedicated areas; each customised space hosts the full range of vehicles for the respective brand and represents the brand’s true values and identity.

“Each brand is served by dedicated specialist sales consultants whose only focus is to provide a unique customer experience. In order to achieve this, we have introduced in our showroom specialised functions/desks, aimed at improving and simplifying the customer purchase process,” says Dr Bijan Majidi, general manager of Motorcity.

In addition, the dealership has designed each showroom with a lounge area and in-house exclusive lifestyle boutique, presenting and selling the latest trends in fashion, accessories and high quality merchandise of each brand.

Motorcity has announced a special offer on its entire range of vehicles. Volvo customers can enjoy a number of benefits that include free insurance and registration, five years’ warranty and three years or 60,000km complimentary service package.

Those in the market for a brand-new Subaru are offered free insurance and registration, five years’ warranty and five years’ road assistance. Additionally, customers can get BD500 cash back, BD1,000 over evaluation for a customer’s used car, or a three-year or 60,000km service pack. Citroën buyers also get free insurance and registration, a five-year warranty and five years’ road assistance among other benefits.

Digital launch Motorcity introduces a new state-of-the-art interactive website built on a responsive platform, which enables online visitors to keep track of useful information. This includes product line-ups, prices, special offers, pre-owned vehicles on sale and the latest news. Users can access the information from any mobile device. The website is designed to provide immediate interactivity to all visitors, enabling them to download product information, and book online test drives and service appointments. i Call 17 736-222 or visit www.motorcity.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

wheels

Ford Fusion

ALMOAYYED MOTORS

Why Steer?

James Fallon The latest Ford Fusion has been endowed with what the motoring brand calls “active park-assist”. This technology takes the pain out of parking; the car almost parks itself!

Ford Fusion is one among a handful of cars that feature automatic parking. The system is similar to others in that it steers you into a space with the only driver input being the selecting of gears and modulating the brake pedal.

The first time you try this technology is always a bit daunting; it’s not a natural sensation to be in the driver’s seat while the car is moving of its own accord. You might subconsciously move your hands to the steering wheel for the first few attempts.

For parallel parking, the system is very capable. It only requires one and a quarter of the car’s length to park successfully, which is probably better than that needed by many of today’s drivers! This technology is well received by motorists. Self-parking, whether entirely autonomous or not, is a technology for future generations. Current motorists’ reactions are too ingrained to put all their faith into a computer to park their pride and joy safely.

A closer look Focusing on typical aspects of the Fusion reveals a talented car. The cabin remains supremely quiet at road speeds and bumps are soaked up with aplomb. The engineers prioritise the sensations a driver should receive, which inspires confidence and makes the car more enjoyable.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The engine fitted to the test car is Ford’s 2.5-litre fourcylinder, which delivers 170bhp and 237nm of torque.

Though the engine itself is a great unit, the Fusion’s size and weight are overwhelming.

Given the choice, I would opt for the 2.0 turbocharged Ecoboost engine as it has significantly more torque, providing the car with much better in-gear acceleration. The quality of the cabin is good, the infotainment system is intuitive and the seats are both comfortable and supportive.

The Fusion is quite spacious for a mid-size sedan, offering generous levels of headroom and legroom — certainly enough to hold four adults in comfort. This model makes a great case for a budget mid-size family sedan. It’s quiet, comfortable, well-equipped and offers excellent value for money. i Call 17 737-373.

May 2014 99

education

Knowledge is Power The quest for education is never ending. Luckily, whether you are looking for a primary school for your kids or hoping to further your career with a professional degree, the choices are many in the Kingdom.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Education is the heart and soul of society; it is through critical academic constitutions that knowledge and culture is cultivated into our future generations. The Kingdom has an abundance of internationally accredited schools, universities and institutions. Bahrain This Month looks into some of the best that are on offer. schooling in bahrain Where you choose to send your children to attend school is the basis for their academic life; it is one of the most important investments parents can make for their children. St Christopher’s School is a leading British international institution with over 2,100 students from more than 60 nations. Encouraging the notion that personal improvement and development is always possible, the school uses innovative and traditional teaching methods.

Lycée Français de Bahreïn, the oldest French school in the GCC region, teaches the French curriculum and prepares its students for the French baccalaureate, a diploma recognised worldwide for its excellence.

Located in the heart of Adliya, the Multinational School — Bahrain is based on the success and expertise of its sister school in Riyadh. It offers academic excellence with strong pastoral care and child-centred and playbased early childhood programmes.

Nadeen School, established in 1978, is a primary school, consisting of pre-school, infant, and junior sections, with classes from pre-nursery through to year six. Following the English national curriculum, the school supplements its activities and learning with curricula from Australian and New Zealand schemes.

Ibn Khuldoon National School, established in 1983, offers a bilingual programme of study for students from kindergarten to grade 12 through its IB diplomas and

American high school diplomas. With a diverse faculty, the school provides a rich and supportive learning environment for students.

Hawar International School, established in 2001, aims to provide an international environment by creating an awareness and understanding of traditional values. The school provides educational levels from nursery through to high school and provides a balanced educational programme in both Arabic and English. The school is recognised by the Ministry of Education for its special education support system.

Higher education A college education is not only an admission ticket to a good job but also guarantees a better quality of life. In our modern society, employers are looking for people who have the most to offer.

Since its inception in 2001 by Dr Khalid Bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa, the University College of Bahrain has established itself as a leading institute in the region.

Designed to provide an international learning experience entirely conducted in the English language, the institution offers a host of degrees and certificates in the specialised field of business administration, communication and multimedia and information technology.

Ahlia University, the first-ever private university licensed by the government, was established in 2001. Ahlia has international affiliations with a number of higher education facilities, and among the offerings of its colleges are arts, engineering, medical studies, business and finance.

Integrating IT into all of their programmes, AMA International University provides bachelor’s degrees in international studies, business informatics, computer science, engineering informatics and mechatronics engineering. Students can further their career through two May 2014 101

education master’s degrees in business administration and in computer science. It is one of the few universities that offers offer part-time degrees suitable for working students.

Having come a long way since its inception, Bahrain Polytechnic is a leading centre for higher education. It offers a diverse range of internationally reputed qualifications, offering a curriculum with an emphasis on strengthening soft skills. Other programmes offered are bachelor’s degrees in business and engineering technology.

Offering a reputed medical education is the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Medical University of Bahrain. Having established in 2004, it offers nursing and medical programmes and several master’s degrees.

Students can undertake full-time undergraduate courses and part-time postgraduate courses.

Kingdom University has five distinguished colleges, including colleges of arts, computing and IT, business and law. Bahrain’s first and only private university for women, the Royal University for Women offers unique and creative degree programmes with a major dedication to the arts. Programmes include fashion and graphic and interior designing.

Standalone institutes Strathclyde Business School has been operating in Bahrain since 1995. Currently located at the GB Corp Tower, near Bahrain Financial Harbour, the business school has grown tremendously with an increase of 70 per cent student intake over the last decade. Its MBA programme boasts triple accreditation and caters to those who look for the best learning experiences, offered in the comfort of their own country.

Ernst & Young Training Centre offers UK- and US-based professional qualifications in accounting and finance. All qualifications are offered in both full-time and part-time study programmes. Certificates include those for certified accounting technicians, professional risk managers and certified information systems auditors.

Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail is the largest specialist provider of entry-level vocational education in

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hospitality, retail and tourism in Bahrain. A number of retail courses are offered along with diploma programmes.

A pioneering finance centre, the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance offers some of the best banking programmes in the Kingdom. The institute has specialised learning centres that offer subjects such as banking, accounting, IT, insurance, Islamic finance, leadership and management. External programmes are offered, including the DePaul University master’s degree and the University of Wales validated diploma certificate.

The Gulf International Institute provides certificates and diplomas in various fields, such as computer studies, accounting and management, in addition to English, French and Arabic courses. Specialised English courses like TOEFL are offered; the institute is a recognised centre for the University of Cambridge international examinations.

Gulf Insurance Institute offers professional membership qualifications, which include a suite of certificates at foundation, intermediate and advanced levels. The institute’s international qualification partners include the Chartered Insurance Institute, the Institute for Securities and Investment and the Society of Actuaries.

Global Institute offers courses that include software and programming, CISCO networking, accounting and management certificates.

The Alliance Française is the largest network of French language and cultural centres in the world. They are dedicated to promoting French language and the francophone culture in order to foster relationships between people of all nationalities, ethnicities and races.

There are over 1,000 Alliance chapters in the world and over 136 countries have at least one branch.

Berlitz Bahrain continues to establish their leading position as a top-notch language centre. With two branches in the Kingdom, Berlitz has established itself as a leading centre for learning a new language. The centre offers a series of soft skills courses that have been tested and used in over 15 countries, designed to train individuals to tackle the day-to-day obstacles faced in a work or social environment.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MULTINATIONAL SCHOOL — ­ BAHRAIN

Growing Up Fast!

The word around town is that a recent survey showed excellent results for this new school, signalling a rise in its student uptake.

When the Multinational School ­— Bahrain opened its doors in Adliya in September 2013, it had just 46 pupils. Less than a year later, the institution has seen a threefold increase to 136 and now has over 250 students waiting to join in September. So what exactly draws families to Bahrain’s newest international school?

“Word of mouth is the biggest factor now,” says Judith Lyons, the school’s registrar. “People are getting good reports from our students’ parents and so they come to have a look around.”

As part of its commitment to excellence, the school recently carried out an anonymous survey of its parents, designed by Ofsted. Results were 100 per cent positive in 12 of the 13 areas analysed in the study and every parent recommended Multinational School — Bahrain.

“Comments left by parents on the school’s Facebook page are a tribute to the high standards that the staff sets and to the quality of relationships in the school,” says David Tansey, the principal.

“We are also finding that educators from other schools in Bahrain and all over the world are keen to join us and that means we can be very selective,” he says. “I spend a lot of my time interviewing potential new teachers.” Plans are afoot to develop the school’s campus this summer with new science labs, an arts zone and a bigger kindergarten.

“We know we have a lot to do to become the truly outstanding school we want to be, but we were confident that Bahrain was looking for an inclusive school, where children of all ability levels can reach their full potential and achieve their ambitions, as they do at the Multinational School in Riyadh. It is like watching a child grow up fast,” says Julia Jefferson, chairperson of governors. i Call Visit www.mns-b.com or call 17 711-444.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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education bibf

Educational Excellence An institution that has provided qualified professionals to the country’s banking and financial sector celebrates its rich history while remaining at the forefront of academic distinction.

Created in 1981, BIBF, originally named the Bahrain Bankers Training Centre, served one main purpose — to satisfy the training and development needs of the local banking sector. By 2001, the number of participants increased from 450 in the first year to over 6,000.

With a strong foundation and years of committed effort, this acclaimed institution has produced trained professionals who shoulder a robust banking industry in the region. Today, BIBF graduates 20,000 professionals a year, representing an increase of almost 100 per cent in the last decade. It provides quality education across all major business disciplines and has earned its place amongst global training providers. BIBF has also been instrumental in the creation and implementation of the qualifications framework in the Kingdom.

Chaired by the governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), its board members include senior representatives from the private, public and governmental sectors, the financial services sector, and other organisations. Aside from banking qualifications, BIBF offers thought leadership, research and advisory, assessment and training solutions in the areas of accounting and finance, academic, executive development, leadership and management, insurance, Islamic finance and information technology.

A wide range of subject matter is covered, with over 300 different courses offered to the financial and corporate market. Tailor-made training solutions are available based on organisational requirements alongside specialised programmes taught by leading market specialists. BIBF also offers professional qualifications and degree programmes in partnership with major international organisations.

“The secret to the success of any organisation is its people and we have managed to attract the very best,” says Solveig Nicklos, director of BIBF. “The team comprises market practitioners, academics and qualified senior industry professionals. Their diverse backgrounds ensure an enriched participant experience, striking the perfect balance between theory and practice.”

Solveig shares that one of the main things that attracted her to the job is the focus BIBF has on the diversity of human capital, one of Bahrain’s greatest strengths as a leading regional financial centre.

“We do not just train participants for jobs in this market, but also internationally, as their careers can develop and take them overseas. It is vital that we align our strategy with that of the CBB’s, so we can anticipate the training needs of institutions that choose to set up their operations in Bahrain,” she adds.

BIBF is located in the heart of Juffair, and is open for business six days a week from Saturday to Thursday. i Call 17 815-555 or visit www.bibf.com.

104 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Diploma & Bachelors Masters

Professional Qualifications

Leading Excellence in Academic & Executive

Call us: + 973 1781 5543

www.bibf.com

education ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS IN IRELAND – BAHRAIN

A Decade of Medical History This contemporary university remains committed to the medical field as it marks 10 years of service in Bahrain’s education sector.

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI Bahrain) was inaugurated in October 2004 with a state-of-the-art medical campus. In the 10 years since, it has witnessed a fortyfold increase in students across its firstclass graduate programmes.

“We opened our doors to 28 students in 2004; today we have 1,240 students from 40 countries taking courses in medicine, nursing and postgraduate studies,” says Professor Sameer Otoom, the university’s president. “We have come a long way over the last 10 years. The next 12 months will be a special time for the university as it begins its anniversary celebrations, giving us the opportunity to look towards the bright future for RCSI in Bahrain.”

Since 2010, the university has graduated four cohorts, a total of 611 graduates, in different programmes. RCSI’s transnational education agenda has ensured that the quality of education is standardised across all its campuses and the final examination results are a clear indication of the success of this strategy. In fact, students of a Middle Eastern origin, studying in RCSI Bahrain, have outperformed their counterparts in RCSI Dublin, confirms Professor Sameer.

RCSI’s recent investment of BD260,000 in sports and recreation facilities asserts the university’s emphasis on curricular activities alongside academics.

Graduates of the university are awarded degrees from both RCSI Bahrain and the National University of Ireland. In addition, graduates in medicine receive licentiates from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. The degrees awarded by Bahrain’s chapter are recognised and attested by the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom. i Visit www.rcsibahrain.edu.bh or call 17 351-450.

DEVELOPING HEALTHCARE LEADERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE WORLDWIDE RCSI BAHRAIN COMMITTED TO EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

MB BCh BAO (Medicine) 5/6 year Medical programme

Medical Commencement Programme 1 year English and Science programme

BSc Nursing

4 year Bachelor of Science in Nursing *Tamkeen sponsorship available

MSc in Nursing

2 year postgraduate programme 106 May 2014

Now enrolling for September 2014 www.rcsibahrain.edu.bh admissions@rcsi-mub.com +973 17351450 ext: 5555 www.bahrainthismonth.com

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF BAHRAIN

Driving Education with Technology Technological advancements in communication methods and objectivesetting for the future are the driving forces behind this university’s success.

Sheikh Adbulla Al Khalifa

When technophile Sheikh Adbulla Al Khalifa first joined the University College of Bahrain (UCB) in 2013, a much-needed transformation occurred at the university. As the technology and innovation director, he set out to bring the university’s communications, network and overall infrastructure up to standard.

In the same year of his joining, Sheikh Abdulla introduced a collaborative academic work flow system using Google apps as a platform. Quick acceptance by the students indicated its success.

“We had a traditional method going on; so I took the matter from the ground up. I realised after speaking to the students that something needed be done to improve the university’s communication systems,” he says. “Google apps allow students and faculty to collaborate, share documents, projects and even have real-time advice and assessments all within the browser.”

Shifting online began to save time, especially for the students who were from Saudi Arabia. The introduction of e-textbooks using CourseSmart also grew popular among the students and faculty.

“The online platform allows professors to keep track of the students’ usage and reading patterns,” says Sheikh Abdulla.

What comes next As the university’s quality assurance and compliance executive director, Sheikh Abdulla has plans for the university to achieve an accreditation status from governing bodies over the next two to three years.

“After all, a university is the source that takes a student places and moulds who they are. So where better to receive a quality education than at UCB?” he comments. i Visit www.ucb.edu.bh or call 17 790-828. www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 107

education LYCÉE FRANÇAIS DE BAHREÏN

Multicultural Education As the only French curriculum school in the Kingdom, this institution not only provides world-class education but also cultivates a vibrant learning environment.

Lycée Français de Bahreïn (The French School of Bahrain) is the oldest French school in the GCC. The school teaches the French curriculum and prepares its students for the French baccalaureate, a diploma recognised worldwide for its excellence.

This is a global network of over 488 schools spread across 130 countries, providing quality education to over 320,000 students, many of whom don’t use French as their main language.

The school, like all other institutes within the MLF network, respects everyone’s freedom of conscience and encourages interaction between children of all nationalities.

At the Lycée Français de Bahreïn, all pupils are taught French, English and Arabic as early as nursery school. Non-francophone pupils are given the opportunity to learn French with specialised teachers.

“Our aim is not just educating students, but to create responsible world citizens of tomorrow who appreciate diversity,” says Antoine Sagodira, gestionnaire, Lycée Français de Bahreïn. “Our objective is for students to be able to speak fluently three languages once they reach their last year of secondary education.”

This structure has proven successful both in France and abroad. It enables the children to attend to the curriculum while quickly learning the French language. Spanish is also taught as an elective subject from grade seven onwards.

Located in Muharraq, Lycée Français de Bahreïn has offered quality education since 1976. It is registered with the Ministry of Education of Bahrain and is managed directly by the French Secular Mission. i Call 17 323-770.

108 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

STRATHCLYDE BUSINESS SCHOOL

Nurturing Leaders

From fostering global leaders to building local entrepreneurs, this business school offers world-class education that lays a solid foundation for your career.

Operating in Bahrain since 1995, Strathclyde Business School has grown tremendously from its inception. The centre marked a 70 per cent increase in student intake in the last decade.

With off-shore centres that offer part-time courses in the UAE and Oman, this is one of the leading business schools which providequality education in the region. One of many reasons why people prefer to do the Strathclyde MBA programme is the triple accreditation that it possesses.

“Out of over 5,000 business schools globally, only 48 have triple accreditation. That makes us the top one per cent in the world and puts us in the top 25 MBAs globally according to the Financial Times,” says Dr Ron Bradfield, associate dean (MBA). “We are proud to have graduated some of the best alumni that hold key positions globally.”

The Strathclyde MBA is highly experiential and is based on collaborative learning. Students from around the world share their varied work experiences, knowledge, understanding and skills. The centre adopts a hands-on approach in their teaching style and is ranked number four in the world for value for money. “This MBA will shape and guide you as a reflective, open-minded, adaptive learner, which is facilitated through the enhanced understanding of the interplay of theory and practice in management. We have a motto we adhere to, since our inception in 1796,

by Professor John Anderson, who believed we are, ‘A place of useful learning’. We have maintained it ever since,” adds Dr Bradfield.

Dr Ron Bradfield

i Call 17 556-112 or email elvin.joseph@strath.ac.uk”

The University of Strathclyde is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, number sc015263

Picking a great business school is as easy as 1.

2.

3.

Strathclyde MBA in Bahrain In a business world of constant change, management education is crucial to your career advancement. Triple accreditation and global rankings, such as the Economist 2013 Executive MBA rankings, place Strathclyde Business School in the top 1% of the world’s business schools. A key player in the Gulf, we have been delivering the prestigious Strathclyde MBA in Bahrain since 1995.

Our programmes are delivered part-time over weekends by Strathclyde academics, so you don’t have to give up your job while you earn your MBA from the Times Higher Education 2012-2013 UK University of the Year.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

To find out more visit

www.strath.ac.uk/mba/ Elvin Joseph joseph.elvin@strath.ac.uk +973-17556112

Leading business education, research and consultancy

May 2014 109

gadgets

Top of the Line If you’re really serious about gadgets, this month’s selection will flick your switch. Check out the best in the gizmo world.

Epoz Aktimate Mini+

Editor's pick!

The latest iPod dock from Epoz comes as a stylish pair of speakers with the dock situated on top of the master speaker.

It also has Bluetooth connectivity alongside various other input methods.

Porsche Design BlackBerry P9882

Porsche Design are renowned for their sleek design and high quality products. It will come as no shock then that the latest model, the P9882 is an absolute stunner. Switching to touchscreen has done wonders for this phone aesthetically.

Astell & Kern AK100 MKII

Want to stand apart from the iPod crowd? Look not further than the second-generation AK100s from Astell& Kern. This sleek unit has a 2.5-inch screen and boasts two MicroSD slots for extra storage capacity.

Grado PS1000

The PS1000 is an amalgamation of mahogany and alloy; it looks incredible. These are headphones for the true audiophile, the engineering techniques used to make some of the components leaves you speechless.

Panasonic TH-85PF12U

One of Panasonic’s largest screens, this TH-series plasma offers everything you could need for the perfect home cinema. It has an ultra-sharp picture and is more energy efficient thanks to Panasonic’s NeoPDP technology.

110 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Leica S2

Leica are the holy grail of photography equipment. Their S2 camera offers incredible 37.5 megapixel shots and a host of impressive features. It looks fantastic and manages to remain relatively compact.

Apple iPad Retina 128GB

Apple’s latest iPad utilises their much-lauded retina display which provides graphics that are noticeably crisper than previous generations or rivals displays. This version is also equipped with 128GB of memory — enough for most people’s needs.

Epson P-7000

The P-7000 is an ideal piece of technology for photographers and videographers. It has a substantial 160GB hard drive and an impressive four-inch LCD screen all of which combine to make for a great on-the-go media storage device.

Sandisk 128GB MicroSD LaCie 5big Thunderbolt

The 5big Thunderbolt is the ultimate in external storage devices available in 10TB or 20TB versions, LaCie’s hard drives have enough capacity to last a lifetime. Thanks to top quality components, it remains cool and silent during operation.

Sandisk’s latest flash memory crams 128GB into a card smaller than a fingernail. The MicroSD will revolutionise smartphones and other portable devices by offering them as much storage capacity as some laptops.

All gadgets are available online. www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 111

bystander

Savio, the organiser

Esmail, Marlin, DJ Andy, DJ Akbar Sami & Paresh

Bahrain Color Festival 2014 The ‘Bahrain Colour Festival 2014’ celebrated Holi, the Indian festival of colours at the Lost Paradise of Dilmun last month Francesca, Lauren, Bridget, Sushmita & Alika

Deva, Ahmed, Cristina, Esmail, Ali & Purna

Ansu, Abish & Lini

Jay & Ayan

Bijan & Arun

Noor, Ali, Mariam & Fadak

Asma & Fatima

Kelly & DJ Fredz

Sayed, Sadiq & Salman

Daewoo Lestar Launch Motorcity held a ceremony to mark the launch of the all-new Daewoo Lestar at the Motorcity Commercial Showroom in Nuwaidrat last month The all-new Daewoo Lestar Issa Kanoo

Bijan, Khalid Kanoo, Waleed Kanoo, Mike & Brett

112 May 2014

Kubra & Bisan

Sayed, Vivek & Omran

Adrian, Mujahid & Amjesh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

music

Into a New Generation The artists and bands featured this month have had much success in years gone by — but can they adapt to appeal to the current generation?

Presidents of the United States of America — Kudos to You

M T BU ON ALTHE M

OF

What’s the story? PUSA’s new album is

H

typically quirky and fun. The random nature of the band emanates from their unusually named songs and strange but flowing lyrics. As with previous albums, Kudos to You is quite heavy on guitar and drums but in a way that matches the vocals to provide an energetic combination.

Although it is the band's first release in six years, PUSA fans will be pleased to know that humour is still the name of the game for the Seattle boys.

Worth a listen? The band stays true to their

weird and wonderful mix of Seattle-influenced alternative and punk power pop music. Taking the term “leave your seriousness at the door” to a whole new level with their seventh album, the trio still somehow manages to maintain rich lyrics and meaning. This is evident in the quirky but deep Slow Slow Fly, which encourages exploration. In the song Good Morning Tycoon, bassist-singer Chris Ballew takes shots at the one per cent while Poor Sure parodies every country heartbreak song ever written.

VERDICT: This album reminds us that it’s OK to have fun while listening to music.

Top Track: Slow Slow Fly and Stay with Me

John Legend — Love in the Future There are few names bigger than John Legend when it comes to R&B. Having been five long years since his last solo record, it’s evident that the crooner has put all his heart and soul into Love in the Future.

Legend collaborated with many different writers and producers, including executive producer Kanye West. The album is definitely one of his best works and our favourite with the standout track being the hit ballad All of Me. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Paolo Nutini — Caustic Love

Maxïmo Park — Too Much Information

The latest album from Paolo Nutini is quite different from his previous offerings. His trademark soulful voice remains but is now accompanied by more serene instrumentals.

This new direction suits Nutini perfectly; his voice has always been older than its years.

Maxïmo Park’s recent release shows that the band has evolved somewhat since A Certain Trigger. Softer vocals and less pronounced instruments than his previous albums (with the exception of a few tracks) show a new side to the English band.

May 2014 113

games

A Quartet of Classics H

FIFA 14

NT

GA E M M E O

The games in this issue have been running in excess of a decade and remain as some of the most playable games on the market.

OF

TH

Arguably the best football game on any platform, FIFA has been around forever. For most gamers with a remote interest in football this will be a must-buy and for good reason.

The graphics have improved a lot and the addictive nature of the game remains.

Grand Theft Auto V

Tomb Raider Definitive Edition What is it?: This game series featuring archaeologist adventurer, Lara Croft,

reaches its 10th generation and, to celebrate, this Definitive Edition includes various new features and previously unseen concept artwork of Lara. Tomb Raider is still one of the best of its genre, but if you’re wondering whether this version provides extra visual flair, the answer is no, not really.

GTA is one of the most popular games across all platforms. This open-world crime game allows users to pretend to be a criminal, performing everything from carjacking to assassinations. The freedom of the game is refreshing; however, this latest version has taken things to a whole new level.

Caution is advised!

Graphics: The graphics of this latest game are sharper than ever and the

engine is smoother than ever. However, we need to keep in mind that the primary appeal of the game was never linked to its fancy visuals.

The game has always been about the pacing, plotting, mechanics and level design. The new edition features all of those much-loved features of the Lara Croft brand; now it just looks a little more vibrant and detailed.

Gameplay:

The Definitive Edition of Tomb Raider is a lot like Lara Croft’s excellent adventure from last year’s release. There are tons of gunfights, action set pieces, platforming sections and puzzles to solve. None of the additional new features (multi-player maps, new characters and outfit changes to name a few) are all that interesting. For those who play the game on an older console, there is little new offered in this edition. Unless, that is, you love voice communication. Both the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions support commands, so just saying “map” or “pistol” immediately does what you’d expect.

VERDICT: Tomb Raider Definitive Edition is just a minor facelift.

114 May 2014

Metal Gear Solid V MGS is one of the more interesting action games. Instead of the typical ‘shoot everything that moves’ style, MGS focuses on espionage. Since its inception, it has always had a depth of story and a requirement for tactical decisions that make it stand out. This is a game that requires patience and quick thinking to complete. Visually MGS is fantastic. www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

O

TE H SI ONT EB M W F THE

Thedailymash.co.uk What is it?

The Daily Mash, a website offering spoof coverage of news, politics, sport and culture, was launched in 2007 as a British version of The Onion. It was set up by Paul Stokes, former business editor of The Scotsman, and Neil Rafferty, who was once a political correspondent for The Sunday Times.

The Good: The main difference between this site and the countless

other similar ones is its professionalism and attention to detail. At first glance it could be an actual news website. The layout is almost identical to many leading news outlets websites. This only serves to add to the comedy of their articles, which are brilliantly witty and well written.

The Bad: In a world where one hardly has time to catch up with

what’s really going on across the globe, it’s hard to see how people have the time to go through satirical pieces.

The Daily Mash is a bsurd. Sometimes it misses the mark by miles. Rafferty and Stokes crystallise unease about politics, celebrity and sanctimony into powerful humour that surprises more often than it shocks.

VERDICT: The British answer to The Onion.

Wired.co.uk Wired provides news updates and reviews of everything from watches and smartphones to silent motorbikes and futuristic online databanks. The website is updated regularly with the latest news, releases and it even has an events page. It’s a great site if you want an opinion on any new gadgets or games, or simply want to keep up with the technologies of tomorrow.

Blogger.com With Blogger you can share your thoughts and opinions with the world. There are options for inserting image and video files and linking them to other websites. What makes Blogger stand out is that it comes under your Google account, negating the need for remembering new passwords! www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 115

apps

Simplify Your Life!

This month, we have featured some extremely useful apps. Some may revolutionise certain aspects of your life.

TH

TH PS ON AP E M

OF

Dictionary.com This app is a must-have for anyone, especially writers or students. It contains a dictionary and a thesaurus and has a simple, functional layout. An interesting feature of this app is the Word of the Day — a great way to learn new words!

The explanations of the words are very detailed, with related forms, example sentences and additional contexts. The thesaurus provides synonyms and antonyms and identifies all of the different forms of the words.

Sleep Time WHAT IS IT? This app is for those who have difficulty sleeping. It has various

functions that inform you about your sleep habits and from this you can make changes to improve them. It can play calming music for a pre-set period to help you get to sleep, which is a very useful function. It uses the phone’s sensors to monitor you during your sleep. If you suffer with insomnia, give Sleeptime a try.

THE GOOD: The app works as both an intelligent alarm clock and sleep analysis

solution to analyse your latest snooze and make sure you’re getting most out of your time.

Sleep Time wakes you up at the right moment to minimise grogginess and also claims to help monitor sleep patterns and provides cumulative data of the user’s sleep cycle. While this or any other sleep app is certainly not the most accurate way to assess your sleep, it does have an upside.

After giving it a test run for a few weeks, it is evident that the app encourages users to follow a healthy routine as it forces you to keep track of your sleep pattern.

THE BAD: As it is designed to monitor a user’s sleep during the night, it is a complete battery killer. We also compared both the android and iPhone versions of this app and found that the latter is packed with many more features, including sound tracks and graphs.

VERDICT: It’s not professional medical help for the insomniac, but it’ll do.

116 May 2014

getWaiter! getWaiter! is an app designed to make life a little bit easier.

Its name is self-explanatory; it is simply an app to get the waiter’s attention at a restaurant. Its options include calling the waiter, ordering more drinks and requesting the bill.

Perfect for those visits to busy restaurants when you find yourself attempting (unsuccessfully) with your arm in the air to get the waiter’s or waitress’ attention, getWaiter! has the potential to be a real hit. www.bahrainthismonth.com

TH

OF

TH

ON

M O E VI M E

movies

Captain America: The Winter Soldier Directed by: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo Starring: Chris Evans, Samuel L Jackson, Scarlett Johansson

The Plot:

For Steve Rogers, awakening after decades of suspended animation involves more than catching up on pop culture. It also means that this old school idealist must face a world of subtler threats and difficult moral complexities. That comes clear when director Nick Fury is attacked by the mysterious assassin, The Winter Soldier, but not before warning Rogers that SHIELD has been subverted by its enemies.

When Rogers acts on Fury’s warning to trust no one, he is branded as a traitor by the organisation. Now a fugitive, Captain America must get to the bottom of this deadly mystery with the help of the Black Widow and his new friend.

Worth Watching? The movie has a strong storyline, like

typical espionage thriller films. This time it comes with political seasoning, something that has not been implemented in other Marvel movies.

Action scenes are worth looking forward to. Chris Evans gives his best performance in this film. There’s enough suspense to keep you at the edge of your seat throughout the film. However, it isn’t worth waiting to see the second additional scene after the credits; it’s as disappointing as the one in Thor: The Dark World.

VERDICT: The storyline is impressive; the villain — not so much.

Limitless A chance meeting with an old acquaintance changes protagonist Eddie Morra’s (Bradley Cooper) life as he is introduced to a smart-drug that allows him to use all his brainpower at any given time.

Rio 2 Blu, Jewel and their three kids are hurtled from Rio de Janeiro to the wilds of the Amazon. As Blu tries to fit in, he goes beak-to-beak with Nigel, and meets the most fearsome adversary of all — his father-in-law! www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 117

bystander

Nada, Rahma, Ahmed & Samar

Raft Race 2014 One of Bahrain’s major annual fund-raising events, the 38th Charity Raft Race, organsied by the Rotary Club of Salmaniya was held at the Al Bander Hotel and Resort. All funds raised from the event will be distributed among local children’s charities as part of the Club’s Kids-in-Need project.

The Al Ghalia team in action

Khalil, Maram, Ahmed & Mariam

Rotary Club of Salmaniya organising commitee

Harris, Faseel, Rithin, Praveen, Nasar & Mohammed

Ayman, Hassan & Ahmed

Neman & Olivier

Dunia, Khalid & Asia

118 May 2014

Nader, Khalid & Afaf

Sandra & Evita

Hyacinth, Gertrude, Nancy & Caroline

Harry & Kiran

Ahmed, Mohammed & Rania

Dima, Caline & Celine

Khairya, Foz & Sara

Osama

Khushboo & Kaushal

Michael, Jenny & Isa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ryan & Franรงoise

Heather & Deke

Nahreen & Daniela

Glenn & Tim

Ryan Ernst Birthday Bash A 40th birthday bash was hosted by Ryan Ernst; the Tony Stark of the American Embassy

Glenn, Daniela, Ryan, Aimee & Deke

Indira, Franรงoise, Ryan, Tatiana & Anastasiia

Anna, Roza, Amjad & Masha

Glenn, Bob & George

Elizabeth, Aimee & Kristie

Caoimhe, Mary, Marie-Claire & Jelena

Jad, Wees, Ryan & Vanessa

Loni, Ryan, Warren & Patrice

Brad, Samar & Hind

120 May 2014

Ben & Jim

James, Ryan & Danny

Carter & Kayla

Musa & Ryan

Chelsea, Ryan & Elie

Tim

www.bahrainthismonth.com

lanterns

Lounge & Restaurant

Mahraja Dining

Goa Lou n ge

Fusion Cuisine of India A Magical dining experience

Tr u c k L o u n g e

Gar de n Lounge

ADLIYA: Tel: 17246777 / 17250999, BUDAIYA ROAD: Tel: 17590591, DURRAT: Tel: 77770004

bystander

Al Areen’s 1st Integrated Staff Party Al Areen Holding, Al Areen Palace & Spa & Lost Paradise of Dilmun, held its 1st Integrated Staff party at the Nadwah Ballroom, Al Areen Palace & Spa. The event was enjoyed by more than 300 staff members of the three companies, and was attended by the company advisor Dr Essa Faqih with special guest speaker Rashad Janahi, board member All managers from Al Areen Holding, Al Areen Palace & Spa & Lost Paradise of Dilmun with Dr Essa Faqih & Rashad Janahi

Jassim, Rashad Janahi, Dr Essa Fahiq & Pierre Vasseur, hotel manager

Rashad Janahi, Dr Essa Fahiq & Pierre Vasseur with staff at the cake cutting

Al Areen Palace staff

Winners of talent show - Naomi, Ahmed Salim, Ahmed Ali, Jenny & Lory

Lost Paradise of Dilmun staff

3rd runner-up winners for talent show, Dyosa, Marshall & Jen, being awarded by Adnan Aslam

122 May 2014

Mariam, Fatima, Khadija & Sameera

Al Areen Holding staff

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Platinum Sponsor

Strategic Partners

Event Manager

OriginBahrain OriginConsultingCo Origin-Consulting-Group

www.origin.com.bh @OriginBahrain @Originconsulting

bystander

Peter Pan Show

Curt, Wendy & Tariq

Steve, Emily, Aly & Holly

Kathaleen, Joe & Shanni

Luise, Renata, Alexa & Leonor

A special performance of J M Barrie's classic tale Peter Pan was held at the British School in Hamala last month. The show featured a cast of students from schools across Bahrain working together with the Music and Stage For Kids Theatre Company A scene from the play

Some of the cast members

Yara, Reem, Charlotte, Sahar & Tyra

Mohammed & Zahra

Mariam & Tariq

Raihana & Camille

Dalia & Zaid

Noel & Redia

Promod Media Day Out Promod hosted members of the media to a day out at the Al Bander Hotel & Resort. The day included bowling, canoeing, kayaking and a scrumptious lunch Media members & Azadea officials

Jenny & Hanan

124 May 2014

Lani & Jasmine

Karina & Bambi

Elaine & Assanka

Rajeev & Mohammed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Jonty

Rupert, Ann & Belinda

Shirley's Birthday Party Shirley celebrated her birthday with a bunch of pirates near the Spanish Main!

Shirley on the Black Pearl

Bob & Jennifer

Robert & Jonty

Dick & captain Steve

Dick, Anne, Robbie & Beastie

Jennifer

Caroline, Dee, Debbie, Janet & Shirley

Dick

Jerickson & Jenny

Azadea Goes Knowledge The Azadea Group held its Azadea Goes Knowledge employees competition last month. The event was held at the Virgin Mega Store, Bahrain City Centre

Pierre & Jamal with Azadea staff members

Geralyn, Joseph & Marinel

126 May 2014

Christie, Fouad & Mohammed

Samah & Fatima

Abdulla & Pierre

Nanette & Bobby

Hanine & Mounia

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Pia, Vanessa & Cath

Jaypee

BFLC Fun Day The Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) held a staff fun day at the skating rink in Funland last month LJ, Salman, Jona, Cynthia & Julie

Tilak & Saira

BFLC staff members

Peter & Salman

Sandeep, Peter, Renjith & Shima

Faiza & Imran

Saurabh & Prachi

Kevin & Rinu

Imran & Ashwini Dinner Party Imran & Ashwini Shaikh hosted a dinner party for a number of the friends at Muju Restaurant, Dragon Hotel on Amwaj Islands Imran Shaikh, Ashwini Shaikh, Manish & Shilpa

Leya, Preetham & Keerti

Priyanka, Aarav & Preet

128 May 2014

Jehan & Collin

Ria & Reena

Imran, Himanshu & Amit

Sandeep, Imran, Isha & Ashwini

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ian & Charles Gorsuch

Nicole & James

Ian & Joanna Gorsuch Reception Ian & Joanna Gorsuch hosted a reception for a number of their friends at their residence in Adliya last month Liz, Bridget Lindsay, HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Iain & Steve

Samantha, Steven & Peter

Jonty & Steve

Olivia, Joanna Gorsuch & Alice

John & Askar

Qahtan

Olivia & Susan

Basem, Thomas & Nawaf

Shah

KIA New Showroom Launch A ceremony was held to mark the launch of the newly renovated KIA Car Showroom in Khamis last month Mohammed Bin Hindi, Ahmed Bin Hindi, Alex & Nawaf Bin Hindi

Subramaniam, Kumar, John & Binoi

Natalya, Momen, Shah & Victoria

130 May 2014

Binoi, Santosh & Murthy

Alex & Aziz Bin Hindi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Manish, Nabeel, Marise & Heinz

Ali & Jetson

Sumaya Wedding Reception Sumaya Dashti hosted a reception to celebrate her wedding with Andrew. The reception was held at the MĂśvenpick Hotel's poolside Sumaya & Andrew Adam, Fatima & Hussain

Steve, Adam, Andrew, Charles & John

Deena & George

Bairon & Angie

Nabeela & Adnan

George

Maggie & Susan

DJ Whoo Kid & Naziya

Bernie & DJ Jawa

George & Farah

Dasel & Mohammed

Sara & Reem

Ramzi & Anca

F1 Opening Party At Domain The Domain Bahrain played hosted to the F1 Opening Party at the hotel’s Imari Lounge. The night featured DJ Whoo Kid, official DJ for 50 Cent and a member of G-Unit Elayne, Rachel, Najib, Malak, Daniel & Nadine

Nilantha, Shiva, Basel & Rajiv

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Pinko, Lara & Jude

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bystander

Leila, Rashida & Maha

Rashida Tadayon Ladies Lunch Rashida Tadayon hosted a number of ladies for lunch at her residence in Saar. The wanted to see her garden in bloom and had a walk around the garden before lunch Rashida, Shaikha Fatimah, Leila, Alima, Maha, Shaikha Muneera, Nor Hayati, Mariam, Ratna, Tomoko, Anne, Shaikha Huda, Shaikha Maha, Lynne, Mala, Chandini, Angela, Anisa & Sameera

Tomoko, Ratna, Chandini, Shaikha Muneera and Nor Hayati

Lynne, Rashida, Angela & Anisa

Shaikha Huda, Mala & Sameera

Rashida, Shaikha Fatimah & Shaikha Maha

K Hotel Staff Party The K Hotel in Juffair hosted its annual staff party at the hotel's poolside last month

Bala & Volker

Bilal & Mahiet

John, Ruel, Roxanne, Mohammed & Jane

Munir, Ashokan, Syam & Jeevan Ailyn, Janet & Irene

Sarath, Netra & Siva

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Chorie, Hameed & Jihan

Yacoob & Bilal

Mylene, Jinky, Monica, Chorie & Marlene

Hussain & Hameed

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dining

this month Global Dining, p138

Big Smoke Burger, p142

Pass the Bread This luxury hotel brings back the fun to dining out.

With this food promotion, you’ll feel right at home as you share a meal with your friends and family.

The Domain Bahrain is known to be the region’s first social club that is disguised as a luxury boutique hotel. So it isn’t surprising when the team here comes up with an exciting new concept for the gourmands of Bahrain.

With an aim to become the most happening destination restaurant, Le Domain [34] plays host to the all-new ‘Dinner with Friends’ concept.

This theme was suggested by the hotel’s chef de cuisine, Bengt Carlsson, in order to bring back the art of conversation in a social setting.

“It is disheartening to see people sitting at a table quietly, fidgeting with their smartphones all through dinner,” he says. “Dining out should be something everyone looks forward to; it is an amazing experience. We put a lot of thought into taking each diner through a culinary journey.

Dinner with Friends is our way of reminding people what it’s like to truly share a meal.”

Chef Bengt has created a special menu for Le Domain [34], which will be available on Sundays, Tuesdays and Saturdays. This promotion redefines the ‘going out to dinner’ idea; it brings into play The Domain’s social engagement concept.

The Dinner with Friends menu is built for sharing. A table is set for your group upon reservation and the food is arranged at the centre of the table, just like you’d find at home. www.bahrainthismonth.com

You are also offered a selection of wines, beers, cocktails and soft drinks. “We incorporated this idea so that people will initiate conversation, even if it is just to pass a dish,” Bengt notes.

“Our selection of entrées and mains is served in utensils that give you a homely feeling; the presentation is intended to do the same.”

Spoil yourself The South of France dinner starts off with a selection of appetisers, such as Wagyu beef tartar, fried baby squid with black aioli sauce and smoked salmon with white asparagus. All of the appetisers are brought to the table in one go and spread out so the whole group can try a bit of everything.

After sampling all the appetisers, a tureen of French onion soup is placed in the middle of the table, which you can help yourself to. The main courses of chicken à la diable, sea bass en papillote and gnocchi are served with a variety of classic side dishes, such as ratatouille, mushroom ragout and pommes provençale.

The team of pastry chefs prepare a handcrafted selection of desserts to end the culinary journey. The creations are as visually attractive as they are appetising.

The dinner, which combines a casual and dynamic atmosphere with excellent food, is priced at BD27++ per person. A table can be booked for a minimum of four guests. i Call 16 000-222.

Seafood market Located in Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, La Mer brings the opportunity to experience a specially created lunch menu. The offering will include a selection of fresh seafood. Guests are free to enjoy the fish of their choice prepared in the style of their preference.

The new à la carte menu features dishes such as Sole meunière and sea bream en papillote with cream and lemon. Also on offer are a series of salads, like white asparagus spears and Alaskan king crab. Try the salade de La Mer. The lunch offering begins from 12.30pm until 3pm, from Thursday to Saturday.

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dining

Sweet and Savoury

This month, you have plenty of reasons to dine out. There’s a focus on Arabic cuisines and healthy fare.

Have a go at the family-styled menu at Le Domain [34] served every Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday at The Domain Bahrain. Diners can share several appetisers, a soup, a choice of mains, the chef’s favourite desserts and unlimited selected beverages at BD27++ per person. The ‘dinner with friends’ theme night lasts for three hours and is available upon reservation for more than four persons.

Soie, the Chinese restaurant at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, hosts a rock lobster promotion. Open from Sunday to Friday, the dining venue offers the special menu from 7pm until 11.30pm. Indulge in Beijing lobster on a bed of assorted greens, spicy Szechwan lobster, stir-fried lobster with broccoli and shiitake mushrooms and Cantonese-style grilled rock lobster. Prices range from BD15++ to BD18.500++.

Berry delight The talented culinary team at Kempinski Grand Hotel has selected strawberry as the fruit of the month. Stop by T-Spoon for a wide range of mouth-watering berry creations. Try the Duet of Strawberry, which consists of classic strawberries Romanoff in a chocolate basket and homemade strawberry tart. To celebrate the Earth Hour on May 31, Kempinski will host a candlelit dinner at Saveur. A healthy three-course meal will be served; many of the ingredients are sourced from the hotel’s local partner farm in Karranah.

popular Friday brunch and it will soon be made available on Saturdays as well. Prices are set at BD18 inclusive of soft beverages and BD22 inclusive of selected house beverages. Timings are from 12.30pm until 3.30pm.

An Arabic-themed party is hosted every last Wednesday of the month at 338 Garden Restaurant. Invade your senses in this Arabian atmosphere with traditional bites and other flavours featured on the menu. Lebanese singer Alphonse Bahri will entertain the guests with his live performance at the Mandaloun Night gathering. The venue has two new bands on board. On Tuesdays, Highway Haze plays all-time favourites that will make you dance until you drop. On Fridays, African Tones performs reggae, jazz and R&B hits.

Zytoun Restaurant and Grill at Novotel Al Dana Hotel & Resort invites you to discover the flavours of the Middle East through the Arabic brunch buffet priced at BD13 (inclusive of soft drinks). Children can dine at a discounted price of BD6.500. Make the most of the Friday brunch by gaining access to the temperature-controlled pool and beach for an additional BD5.

Tastes from the Middle East A unique Arabic Brunch concept has been created by Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. The exquisite cuisine of the region is created by a team of four Arab chefs, covering both breakfast and lunch specialties. A true brunch feel is offered at Saraya Restaurant with live music and entertainment, surrounded by palm trees. The hotel’s Arabic brunch is offered in addition to their 136 May 2014

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dining

The Future of Food

James Claire

Where are we, as people, heading in our quest for better food, more sustainability and less carbon footprints? We take a look at the future of dining.

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In the past few years one dining trend has been popularised — that of the cupcake! Ever-popular cupcakes are simply here to stay. Get used to them; they are today as much a dessert option as pancakes at breakfast and doughnuts at snack time.

Of course the world is not focused entirely on sugar and dessert. Food trends apply just as much to the basics — from ingredients to the new standards of restaurant operations.

like quinoa, spelt, rice, buckwheat, millet, askamut, amaranth, chia, kaniwa and freekah in breads, salads, pasta and soups.

The health quotient required in children’s meals at home and at school will increasingly push celebrity chefs into the kids’ meal category; it sees schools the world over becoming more careful with their lunch offerings. In terms of vegetables, forget Brussels sprouts and broccoli because the new kids on the block are kale, callaloo and taro leaves.

Health food Healthy food is definitely the trend of all trends. Whether it is calorie counting or nutritional information being supplied with food, snacks and meals, health food is leading the way. An estimated 30 to 50 million women, who have focused on their careers and are financially stable, demand all things healthy from restaurants.

Among the revelations are the move to ‘new but ancient’ grains and a move away from all things wheat.

With a growing number of celiac- and gluten-intolerant customers, restaurants look to the past and use grains

Scone attack Brits rejoice! Sco-nuts, sco-wnies and sco-ffins are here!

As well as being combined with everything possible, the scone or the American buttermilk biscuit has been transformed into a burger bun and sandwich exterior.

Found for decades at afternoon high teas, the scone will be made into artisan shapes and combined with other dishes. It will be utilised to bring back to life such dishes as cobblers and shortcakes. Scones will come in hundreds of flavours, sweet and savoury, and will soon be the cupcake of the future. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sports and food Sports rarely have any influence over mainstream food.

However, with the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the Olympics in 2016, the hospitality industry will shine a spotlight on everything Brazilian over the next half-decade, making it the hottest cultural food trend of the future.

Watch out for Brazilian diners popping up on every street corner, your television being invaded with Brazilian celebrity chefs, and the newest word for a barbecue being ’churrasco’. With a cuisine rich in everything that is currently trending and with a mix of international dishes like tapas and kibbe, Brazilian cuisine is just scorching hot right now!

Futuristic dining In the ‘60s the Jetsons ate futuristic pellets and capsules for their food; in the ‘70s the crew of Star Trek depended on their replicator. The food of the future is finally catching up with sci-fi tales as 3D printing and lasers play a bigger role in food manufacturing over the coming decade.

Lasers will engrave steaks and meats and cut cookies and cakes into designer labels. Vegetables and other products will be marked with everything from company logos to bar codes and QR codes, doing away with paper stickers and labels. 3D printing will increase in popularity and potentially make its way to space, where it will be the ‘replicator’ of the future for those heading to Mars.

Dine in Style returns to fast food franchises, which over the past decades had become a little more than cafeterias with plastic chairs and a cold ambience, with customers ordereding online for delivery and take out. With the expense of real estate, even fast food restaurants need to get their value for money. Soon these casual venues around the world will bring in armchairs, sofas and Wi-Fi into their flagship stores to get us to return and dine in comfort.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The future will see the walls come down between the front of house and back of house. Show kitchens will bleed into the dining room, which will be a showcase and entertainment centre.

With the introduction and understanding of molecular gastronomy, sous-vide and ancillary kitchens that do all the preparation off site, little space will be required for the modern diner kitchen anyway. With television having made the culinary art popular, people will welcome the idea of melding the dining room and the kitchen as they watch their food prepared before their eyes.

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SHOO FEE MA FEE

Igniting a Flame There are few better ways to spark romance than by sharing a meal together.

When that involves plates meant for sharing between friends, then the spark has been ignited.

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Shoo Fee Ma Fee Lebanese Restaurant, in Adliya café ‘square’, where sharing is a way of life. Whether just for the month of romance, February, or any lunch and dinner throughout the year, this is a large and impressive venue; a little hidden from view but well worth finding.

Tucked away within this haven of local cafés is Shoo Fee Ma Fee, whose name in Arabic translates as ‘What’s up?’

When you discover this little hidden gem you will instantly know what is, indeed, up — great Lebanese food.

Everything about this restaurant is modern, from the two-storey building to the cuisine on offer. The venue boasts a mixture of indoor and outdoor dining that is bright and open with plenty of space for private gatherings and functions as well.

The restaurant offers a new take on the idea of an ‘open’ kitchen; you can see what is cooking from your table and the street outside. Whether it is steaming hot breads or oven-fresh pizzas you can draw comfort from knowing that everything you eat is freshly cooked.

Add to that delicious, modern Lebanese cuisine, which is served in formidably sized portions, and it is not difficult to understand why Shoo Fee Ma Fee has garnered a loyal following.

Bright colours of red, green and yellow decorate the furnishings and walls while large glass windows illuminate the nights and brighten the days. Tall ceilings,

staggered decks, outdoor balconies and a courtyard offer a different dining experience with each visit.

Using the freshest of ingredients and marinating them in natural citrus juice, herbs and spices, the food here covers everything from the home to the healthy — for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether you fancy a big meal or a light snack, Shoo Fee Ma Fee is a casual dining environment in which it simply feels great to reside.

This is one restaurant, as well, with ample parking for customers; if you do not have the time to visit, take the experience into your home with their home delivery service and find out what’s up!

So, when it comes to Valentine’s Day, the ambience and cuisine generates that extra spark for a special occasion with a loved one. i Call 17 311-280. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Come in. Sit down. Have a nice meal.

t +973 17311280 f +973 17311281 bldg.175 rd. 2608 adliya 326

Shoo Fee Ma Fee Restaurant

shoofeemafeerestaurant

dining

BIG SMOKE BURGER

Made to Order Employing a gourmet approach to the casual burger, this restaurant offers multi-protein handcrafted burgers in a modern setting.

There are few dishes as versatile as the hamburger. Big Smoke Burger, a dining venue that recently opened its doors at The Walk in Riffa, cooks premium and fresh gourmet burgers that take your casual hamburger to a new culinary level.

Made to order, each patty is grilled to perfection. The options include signature beef burgers in addition to chicken, veggie and lamb burgers. A standout feature of the venue is the ground chuck, which is made to the brand’s specifications. The associated process ensures that each burger is always cooked fresh and is never frozen.

On the menu Big Smoke Burger invites gourmands to try their signature burgers. The classic charbroiled burger is served with classic toppings: tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, red onions, ketchup, Dijon mustard and mayonnaise.

The Craft Burger comes with sautéed mushrooms and roasted garlic mayo; the Spicy Burger boasts caramelised onions and chipotle mayo. The Blue Burger features fresh avocado and gorgonzola cheese.

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Not on the menu You can also craft your own burger with their homemade toppings, sauces and a selection of gourmet cheese.

These are the building blocks that set Big Smoke Burger apart from other restaurants of its kind as they offer exceptional flavour combinations.

Where there are burgers, there has got to be fries and malts. Big Smoke Burger lets you combine your choice of burger with fresh hand-cut French fries. These are cooked daily in trans fat-free canola oil. Indulge in their homemade milkshakes, which are made with three scoops of ice cream. You could lower your ‘guilt reading’ with their fresh green salads. Since it’s a Canadian brand, it is only natural that Big Smoke Burger offers the traditional poutine.

Originally from Quebec, this dish is made with French fries and is topped with a light-brown gravy-like sauce and cheese curds. Big Smoke Burger believes that mouthwatering tastes can only be achieved by using the freshest, highest quality ingredients. Find out for yourself if this holds true at the outlet in Riffa. i Call 77 107-777 or follow @bigsmokeburger_bh on Instagram. www.bahrainthismonth.com

CUCINA ITALIANA

Middle Eastern Fare This restaurant chain is set to add a whole new dining concept to its selection of venues. We speak to the general manager about what to expect.

BTM: We hear Bahrain Family Leisure Company has a new restaurant in the pipeline. Could you give us a few details about the venue?

Pete Lyons (PL), general manager of BFLC: Bayti will feature a mix of Jordanian, Egyptian, Lebanese and Bahraini dishes. One of the main things setting it apart from other restaurants is the menu, which will describe the dishes — a feature you don’t usually get in a lot of Arabic dining venues.

Bayti is located near the Bahrain Financial Harbour. So in the daytime, we’re going to be quite busy with the office crowd. We have decided to run a buffet operation for breakfast and lunch. After sunset, Bayti turns into a destination restaurant. It moves to an à la carte menu in the evening, boasting contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine. We’ve taken traditional dishes from around the region and given them a modern twist.

BTM: Describe the dining experience at Bayti.

PL: It’s a chef-driven restaurant. We’ve a display kitchen; there’s going to be a lot of show going on. A highlight of the restaurant is ‘the gourmet shawarma’.

You’ll have a selection of breads and different fillers to choose from.

Bayti’s interior will showcase a number of chef-driven foods from our display kitchen, offering all in-house produced dishes crafted for the Arab, expatriate and tourist clientele alike. Bayti is sure to become a destination restaurant in the near future.

BTM: Name one thing that every guest should try at Bayti.

PL: We’re doing a chocolate shawarma! This isn’t a combination of chocolate and beef; it is a vertical slab of chocolate that we shave off. The shavings are served onto a chocolate pita bread, with chocolate sauce and various other ingredients, making it a full dessert. It’s very visual!

Pete Lyons

www.bahrainthismonth.com

i Call 17 292-973.

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dining KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

Savour “The Royal Vegetable” This five-star hotel embraces the season by serving asparagus at its award-winning restaurant. The chefs offer mouth-watering creations using the healthy vegetable.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre continues to celebrate spring with the delicacy of the season — asparagus. Due to its delicate flavour and beneficial properties, asparagus has been used as a vegetable and medicine since ancient times. It was used for preventing fatigue in India. A recipe for cooking asparagus appears in the oldest surviving book of recipes.

The vegetable is low in calories and sodium; it’s a great source of protein, dietary fibre and vitamins K and C. Asparagus, also referred to as “the royal vegetable”, can be prepared in various ways; stop by Saveur to relish innovative dishes. The award-winning restaurant is one of the seven exceptional dining venues and lounges at the hotel. It offers an international fine dining culinary experience and satisfies diners with a remarkable à la carte evening menu, featuring European cuisine with hints of Asian flavours. The culinary portfolio of Saveur includes a creatively designed selection of ‘art’ desserts, a salad bar featuring garden-fresh vegetables and an Asian station serving Oriental delicacies from China, Japan and South East Asia.

Special menus From Saturday to Thursday, diners have the opportunity to savour an elaborate international lunch buffet titled ‘Food Gallery’. This is prepared with the finest and freshest produce, with many of the ingredients sourced directly from the hotel’s local partner farm in Karranah, which is just 10 minutes away from the hotel.

Open cooking stations invite guests to interact with chefs from around the world to add their own signature to every dish. For those who prefer the convenience of a three-course set menu, such as an express business lunch, Saveur offers a varied menu from Sunday to Thursday. On Fridays, Saveur sets the tone for a delectable gourmet à la carte lunch to be enjoyed with family and friends; the menu features timeless classics.

The restaurant also serves the hotel’s signature dish — pan-fried hammour with sauerkraut, accompanied by potato purée and mustard chive sauce. This is a fusion of classic German cuisine and Arabic flavours.

Be it breakfast, a business lunch or an intimate dinner, Saveur sets the tone for a sensuous gourmet affair; one that is good for all the senses. i Call 17 171-144 or email restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

TGI FRIDAY’S

Who’s Hungry?

There’s more to this casual dining restaurant than big, bold flavours.

This restaurant’s mission is to remind its guests of all the good times, especially with this new promotion.

This month, TGI Friday’s celebrates an all-time favourite — chicken! The Chicken Sensations promotion is sure to exceed the expectations of Bahrain’s diners.

Whether it’s grilled or roasted, these dishes will have you coming back for more.

Crab Crusted Cajun Chicken: Two blackened chicken breasts are topped with succulent crab meat and garnished with bruschetta mix and a lemon wheel. It is then served with a flavourful Parmesan mushroom cream sauce, creamed spinach and cheddar cheese mashed potatoes.

Triple Chicken Sampler: Spicy buffalo wings, sesame chicken strips and Parmesan crusted chicken quesadillas are served with marinara sauce, sweet Tennessee sauce and a blue cheese dressing, along with celery sticks.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Two sautéed chicken breasts are topped with Caesar dressing and then finished with a Parmesan crust. Served with creamy spinach alfredo fettuccine pasta, this dish comes with a fresh tomato mozzarella salad.

Cajun Chicken: Two blackened Cajun-spiced chicken breasts are topped with Cajun cream sauce and served over jtambalaya rice. Indulge in a side of butter-roasted corn cobs.

Crispy Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken: A crispy, tender chicken breast is filled with a savoury blend of beef bacon, roasted jalapeños and Monterey Jack cheese. It is then topped with fresh pico de gallo and roasted jalapeños. This delicacy is served with a creamy jalapeño Parmesan sauce, cheddar mashed potatoes and broccoli au gratin. i Call 17 179-041.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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dining RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

A Culinary Journey

This five-star hotel is home to various cuisines. Having recently appointed two new chefs de cuisine, its restaurants invite diners for a taste of flavours from across the globe.

Chef Naotaka and Chef Raman

Naotaka and Raman take over the kitchen at Ruka, the luxury Japanese restaurant and lounge at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. The duo has developed a comprehensive and alluring menu, anchored by robatayaki grills, sushi, sashimi and rolls.

Chef Naotaka attended culinary school in Saga, Japan, and improved his cooking skills alongside chefs in Kyoto.

He then moved on to work in Thailand, Singapore, Italy, Hong Kong, Dubai, and most recently in Bahrain.

Chef Raman graduated as a chef from the Singapore Hotel Association Training & Education Centre after which he worked for signature Japanese restaurants in Singapore and with Zuma in Dubai. “What I particularly enjoy is their eye for detail, cleanliness, structure, meticulous execution in the kitchen and their passion for the culinary world,� says Raj Shetty, chairman and manager of Ramee Group of Hotels.

Ruka offers a sophisticated twist on the traditional Japanese izakaya style of informal dining and lounging. The ethos of the restaurant is to deliver cutting-edge service, style and design. Located on the 24th floor of the hotel, this dining venue offers a spectacular view of the city.

Indulge in Indian fare What makes eating Indian food a gastronomic adventure is the sheer diversity. The variety of cooking styles in the subcontinent comes from the secret combinations of spices used in each state.

Rasoi invites you to discover the variety of flavours with an interesting menu by chef Subir and his culinary team. The kitchen team takes pride in the unparalleled tastes and presentation of the sumptuous Mughal cuisine on offer.

Guests can indulge in wholesome Punjabi fare, the robust cuisine of Kashmir, the fiery dishes of Delhi and Mumbai, and Goan and South Indian spicy recipes. Rasoi is dedicated to all discerning lovers of the exotic cuisine.

Authentic Indian cooking takes time and effort. All dishes are cooked fresh to order. Treat yourself to a tasty meal for lunch or dinner at Rasoi. i Call 17 111-971 or 17 111-999.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL

Are You Hungry?

Having reeled in a new chef to head the kitchen, this five-star hotel sees a lot of changes on the menu. Take a look at the new food promotions at its dining venues.

Kent Brothwell was selected by chef Anton Mosiman at the Dorchester in London to do his apprenticeship at the age of 16. Now in his 38th year in the hotel industry, with the last 18 as executive chef, Kent heads the kitchen brigade at Golden Tulip Hotel.

Having been in the Middle East for many years, he has specialised in Mediterranean fare.

As he enjoys cooking fusion dishes, this executive chef feels at home with most cuisines.

Celebrating food The Golden Tulip Hotel has been a landmark in Bahrain for many years.

With the introduction of different themes, the hotel aims to please clients with a great dining experience.

From Sunday to Thursday, the hotel hosts a business lunch from noon until 3pm for the working crowd. A diner can indulge in food and nonalcoholic beverages for BD7.500++.

Every Wednesday, the five-star hotel organises a seafood night. From 7pm until 11pm, Bahrain’s gourmands can indulge in the finest and freshest seafood and shellfish, prepared exactly the way you like it.

The Arabian night, held every Thursday from 7pm until 11pm, is popular with the locals and expats alike. A great way to kick off the weekend, this food festival is a great opportunity to try traditional favourites of the region — for BD8.500++.

Bahrain’s residents are familiar with the Friday brunch at Golden Tulip Hotel. Held from noon until 4.30pm, this is a must-try for every food enthusiast in the Kingdom. For BD16.500++, you can try some of the best dishes this hotel has to offer. i Call 17 535-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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dining ATAYEB RESTAURANT

Appetising Treats

With a name that translates to ‘delicious’ or ‘best of’, this multi-cuisine restaurant on Budaiya Highway sets its standards high.

Diners will not be disappointed by Atayeb Restaurant, with its improved food quality, new chef and revamped menu.

Enter the two-storey venue and you will be surprised by an interior much larger than its façade belies; the high ceiling, pleasant white and ochre colour scheme and openness are all impressive.

Diners can choose to dine downstairs, which features an open plan kitchen set behind glass so guests can view the live cooking action.

If that doesn’t interest them, they can dine upstairs, which boasts ample space as well, including a conference room, booth-style seating and private family dining areas. With reasonable prices and a relaxing environment, the restaurant’s kitchen delivers flawless Italian, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Everything from breads, juices and meats are prepared on site. Although Atayeb offers the luxury of fine dining in a remarkable setting, it also lets diners avail themselves of take-out and home delivery services for lunch and dinner.

The restaurant remains open from noon until 4pm and then from 6pm until midnight on weekdays. It opens early on Fridays and Saturdays for a breakfast buffet from 8am.

The venue remains open until 4pm; then again from 6pm until midnight.

For convenience, the restaurant offers guests a take out and home delivery service. i Call 17 590-119.

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RIC'S AMERICAN SOUTHERN STYLE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE HOMEMADE AMERICAN FOOD!

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 5:30AM-2PM

RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN

Home Away From Home If you are missing home and thinking about American cooking at its traditional best, then come on down to this restaurant for a taste of comfort food.

For a true taste of American cuisine, head to Ric’s Kountry Kitchen that brings to you the authentic flavours from mum’s kitchen. Split into two levels, this venue is considered a second home by expatriates in the Kingdom.

The upstairs venue features the new El Rancho Steakhouse and Cantina, which features an authentic Mexican menu with the entire fiesta flair. Indulge in sizzling fajitas, taquitos, quesadillas, tacos and mindblowing jalapeños.

All steaks are Black Angus USDA-certified and imported from the USA. The steaks include fillet, prime rib, T-bone and rib-eye cuts. The steakhouse features a Chill’n and Grill’n section as well.

Ric’s knows you miss your barbecue parties at home; so all barbecue specialists are invited to grill the premium cuts on their own. Put on your hat and apron; cook that steak any way you like it! Don’t forget a pitcher of margarita to go with it!

The downstairs restaurant boasts country-style food in a relaxed atmosphere. Ric’s opens at 5.30am for breakfast, and stays open for lunch and dinner. The lounge starts to play live music from 8pm. Listen to your favourite country and Top 40 songs until 2am.

Go for it!

Indulge in a big meal with generous portions of American cuisine.

Loosen your belt for the mouth-watering breakfast, burgers, ribs, steaks, sandwiches and buffets. Ric’s is known to have one of the best brick-oven pizzas in town. What’s more, they offer free delivery service for all items on the menu!

STEAKS BBQ BABY BACK RIBS PRIME RIB BURGERS SEAFOOD BUFFETS- All You Can Eat BRICK OVEN PIZZA

UNLIMITED SELECTED BEVERAGES! US Military (ID Required) 14.9BD

EL RANCHO

STEAKHOUSE & CANTINA STEAKS & MEXICAN CUISINE AL JAZIRA RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN

:2nd LIGHT

NAVY BASE

FREE DELIVERY!

i Call 17 725-550. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

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

International (5 Star Hotel)

European 17 813-750 17 744-773 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070 17 717-717 17 537-555 17 540-188 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 007-770 17 178-646 17 749-222 16 010-534 17 587-171 17 721-600 17 717-808

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

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

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

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

Fusion Fusions

17 746-427

Indian Akbar Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi

17 296-660 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 720-031 17 727-230

Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Le Domain[34] Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

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

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

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

Iranian Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Persian Room Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill Rice Bowl The Noodle House Wok

17 179-600 17 666-353 17 636-415

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

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

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

Café Restaurants Cafe Delices Café T Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café World Beat Café

17 746-434 17 750-777 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777 17 363-999 17 612-576

Kalpaka Lanterns Mantra Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Shamiana Spices The Yellow Chilli

17 297-000 17 590-591 17 211-133 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 178-085 17 531-122 17 580-480

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

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju Nando’s Pomodorini Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Wafi Gourmet Zoe

17 210-012 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800 17 825-100 17 000-121 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722 17 713-093 17 179-999 17 176-400

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

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

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s Al Zerda

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873 16 662-123

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari Leewan Al Khor Melh Alzad Taza Yalla Yalla

17 178-090 17 311-186 16 010-666 17 311-170 17 784-997 17 827-999

Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

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

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

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Lanna Thai I Am Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

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

Turkish Iskenderun Grill 17 292-950 Kosebasi 17 172-322 Turkish Mashawi Express 17 002-939

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland

17 506-070 17 713-778

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Korean Arirang Da Rae Jung

150 May 2014

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

17 290-945 17 002-490

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

Pizza Domino’s 17 826-222 Little Caesars 17 179-400 Margherita Pizza and Pasta 17 723-133 Metro Pizza 17 794-000 Papa John’s 17 581-516 Pick a Pizza 17 720-929 Pizza Express 16 010-524 Pizza Hut 17 711-113 Pizza Inn 17 811-666 Pizzabella 17 827-133 The Pizza Company 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

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

17 224-466 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008 17 292-911 17 533-336 17 531-122

Eating Out listings

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What: Meat & Fish Where: Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency A five-course gourmet dinner with selected wines for BD 22++.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Surf and Turf Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Enjoy your favourite seafood and meaty delights for BD12++.

E Call 17 531-122.

wednesday

sunday What: Masala Mahal Where: Saraya, Sofitel This trip down the spice route serves some fine Indian dishes.

E Call 17 636-363.

What: Indian Tandoori Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Tantalising fare dished out from the Indian-style clay oven.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Pizza Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel An all-you-can-eat deal on pizzas with soft drinks for BD4.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Tex-Mex Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Authentic Mexican flavours for only BD12++.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Italian Aperitivo Buffet Where: Mondo, Diplomat Radisson Blu A classic Italian buffet with live entertainment for BD10++.

E Call 17 531-666.

monday What: Lebanese Arabian Buffet Where: Kenza, The K Hotel A slice of Lebanon served in traditional settings at BD8.

E Call 17 360-000

What? Unlimited sushi offer Where? Imari, The Domain An all you can eat Sushi deal in just BD12++ from 6-9pm.

E Call 16 000-333 What? Curry night Where? Olivos, Diplomat Radisson Sample a variety of delicious curries at this fine dining venue.

E Call 39 945-208

tuesday What: Discover Asia Buffet Where: Silk's, Mövenpick Hotel Authentic cuisine with unlimited wine and beer at BD19++.

E Call 17 460-000 What: Lebanese Arabian Buffet Where: Kenza, The K Hotel A slice of Lebanon served in traditional settings at BD8.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Pasta Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Variety of pasta in sauces of your choice with soft drinks at BD4++.

E Call 17 360-000

What: Asian Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Eat all you can at this authentic Asian buffet for BD 9.5++.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Seafood Night Where: Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip Sample the fresh catch of the day and unlimited selected beverages.

E Call 17 535-000 What: Butcher Shop Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Prime cuts of meat prepared on live cooking stations for BD13++.

E Call 17 713-000.

What: Seafood Buffet Where: Al Noor Tent, Elite Resort & Spa An elaborate seafood buffet with the paellas as star attraction.

E Call 17 373-333.

What: Steak Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Offering some of the best cuts straight off the grill.

E Call 17 531-122.

thursday What: Thursday Night Brunch Where: Silk’s, Mövenpick Hotel A quirky affair that serves brunch favourites for dinner.

E Call 17 460-000.

What: Hot Grill Night Where: H2O, Elite Grande Hotel Enjoy fresh food from live barbecue stations.

E Call 17 565-888.

What: Vegetarian Thali Where: Golden Peacock, Mirador Hotel A selection of vegetarian dishes as a complete meal for BD2.9.

E Call 17 312-000.

What: Del Mare Buffet Night Where: Klouds, The K Hotel An extensive seafood buffet at BD12++ with soft drinks.

E Call 17 360-000.

What? Pizza and Pasta night Where? Olivos, Diplomat Radisson Give in to the enticing aromas of fresh Italian preparations.

E Call 39 945-208

What: Arabian Night Where: Selections, InterContinental Regency Authentic dishes and sheesha with live cooking stations.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Beef Eater’s Grill Where: Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip A char-grill experience with a choice of selected prime cuts.

E Call 17 535-000 What: Seafood Night Where: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza The day’s catch at BD21.950 with selected drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

friday What: Sizzler Night Where: Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Enjoy sizzling treats offered in an unlimited buffet.

E Call 17 713-000.

saturday What: Catch of the Day Where: H2O, Elite Grande Hotel All you can eat seafood fiesta for BD10 including shisha.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Flavours of Arabia Where: Saraya, Sofitel Offering a number of authentic Arabian dishes for BD18 per person.

E Call 17 636-363 What: Vegetarian Thali Where: Golden Peacock, Mirador Hotel A selection of vegetarian dishes as a complete meal for BD2.9.

E Call 17 312-000.

What: The Commons Where: Klouds, The K Hotel Gourmet kebabs and shawarma for BD4++ with soft drinks.

E Call 17 360-000.

What: Monday Pasta Night Where: Fiamma, Sofitel Enjoy your favourite pastas and create your own special sauce.

E Call 17 636-363.

What: BBQ & Salad Buffet Where: Klouds, The K Hotel The buffet offers a wide selection of BBQ dishes & Salad for BD4.

E Call 17 360-000 What: Mussels Promotion Where: Camelot Here’s a dinner of unlimited ‘moules et frites’ for BD14 per person.

E Call 17 717-745 www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 151

bystander

Coral Bay F1 Opening Party

Syra, Jack & Miled

Marina, Rania, Shada, Nouran & Danny

The Coral Bay was the place to be as it hosted the F1 Grand Prix Opening Party, called Ibiza Affairz with DJ Danny Zaro and vocalist Syra Martin

DJ Danny Zaro Julia, Roshel & Hanida

Isaac & Danielle

Sara & Hasan

Natalia, Anna & Mo

Jetson, Ali & Wael

Katia & Hakeem

Brendon & Shera

Don & Ranjit

Anis & Rola

Hamra, Anna & Salman

Beaty & Faisal

Silvia, Lar, Lota & Olivia

High On Heels At Ibrida High on Heels, a group of talented female artists performed at Ibrida, at the Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa Seef over the Formula One weekend

High on Heels

Enrico, Nelson, Pedro, Diego, Miguel & Andy

152 May 2014

Michael & Sherine

Julie & Lovelyn

Rea & Munir

www.bahrainthismonth.com

after dark

Bringing Down the House This leading nightlife venue has two eventful nights planned for you. The line-up is unbelievable; be prepared to dance all night long.

It looks like it’s raining DJs at Ibrida, the nightclub at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Seef.

History of House gives Bahrain’s partygoers an amazing night to look forward to. Visit Ibrida on May 15 for a very special event.

The line-up of the night includes Brandon Block. Of Space Terrace fame, Brandon is one of the most entertaining DJs, best known for his uplifting party house music and his infamous havoc-causing antics. His taste is eclectic and when it comes to pleasing the dance floor, he will play anything that will move the crowd.

Joining him is Oliver Lang, one of the leading forces in the new school era. His residencies include world-renowned beach club Bora Bora in Ibiza, the legendary Gatecrasher and Belgium’s super-club Versuz.

If you love deep house and nu disco, then follow the sound of DJ mark Pickup. Having rocked dance floors from Las Vegas to London and from Ibiza to Dubai in the last 15 years, he has shared the decks with some of the biggest in the business including Deadmau5, Tiesto and David Guetta.

DJ Simon Oakey has flown in from Britain to spin some of the best tracks in R&B, soul, disco house and mash-ups. To add glam to the event, www.bahrainthismonth.com

the Ibiza Warm-up Party will be hosted by Parris and Lloyd from Swankys! Add to that the unmistakable house anthem I Just Can’t Get Enough which will be performed by yet another Ibiza DJ, Abigail Bailey. It’s fair to say that this will be a night to remember. i Call 33 731-000.

Otherworldly sounds On May 29, Ibrida opens its doors to DJs from Mars from 9pm until 2am. Dallah Promotions has reeled in these artists who think ‘within the box’. The DJ duo brings the mash-up attitude into electrohouse.

They started remixing big pop hits for their gigs in 2004 just for fun. In a couple of years, they got recognised as one of the biggest names in the mash-up scene. Their videos on YouTube got over 10 million views and the hype continues to grow.

They got noticed by labels all around the world and started working on remixes for big acts, such as Pitbull, Yves La Rock and Coolio.

Their tracks are listed and supported by top DJs like David Guetta, Carl Cox and Bob Sinclar. As a welcome stop on their world touring, their cartoon-box-head show brings the aliens to Bahrain this month.

Tickets can be purchased at Virgin Megastore at Bahrain City Centre. Make sure you dress for the occasion in smart casuals to avoid any hassle at the door. Entry fees are BD15 for gents and BD5 for ladies. i Call 36 695-933.

Shanay Holmes, p157

DJ Charlotte Devaney, 154

this month

Trance nation

Trance music has been flooding Europe as one of the mainstream music genres played in most venues and clubs. So Déjà Vu Restaurant & Lounge has decided to be one of the pioneers to transfer this electronic music scene to Bahrain.

The venue has introduced Trance Nation as a Friday night dance music theme with their new resident DJ performing live alongside guest DJs spinning all spectrums of trance music from mainstream trance to progressive and from uplifting to vocal and even psy-trance. Don’t forget the irresistible weekend offers at the lounge. Trance heads, this is for you.

May 2014 153

afterdark

Songs of Freedom bringing her contemporary tunes to the Kingdom. The award-winning house artist has performed live across London, Ibiza and the UAE. Following popular demand, violinist Jessie-May Smart returns to the lounge on May 30.

DJ Charlotte Devaney

From celebrating Bob Marley’s anniversary to learning a new form of dance, there’s a lot going on at Bahrain’s nightlife venues. Here’s an update for the partygoers on the island.

154 May 2014

Kick off the Labour Day weekend at Klub 360. House music legend, Richard Murray, returns to the nightclub at Elite Crystal Hotel on May 1. Organised by Tripod Entertainment, the party demands an entry fee of BD5 for gents.

London-based DJ Charlotte Devaney returns to Meisei’s rooftop lounge on May 2 setting in motion the after dark events at the venue. She brings an energetic set to the Kingdom inclusive of the hit featuring Snoop Dogg. On May 9, DJ Jenny Lawrence spins the turntables at Meisei,

Theme nights: Salsa, the iconic dance of Latin America returns to Bizarre Lounge every Thursday of the month. Put on your pair of dancing shoes and learn the correct steps with Bahrain’s very own Jaff teaching you the right moves to swirl on the dance floor. Once you’ve mastered a few moves for BD3, dance the night away from 9pm until 2am.

If you’re in the mood to flaunt your dance moves, then visit Txoko at The Domain Bahrain every Monday. The DJ will play salsa, reggaeton and meringue numbers all night long. Walk in early to enjoy two drinks for the price of one between 6pm and 8pm.

On May 9, Muju at The Dragon Hotel & Resort Bob Marley’s 33rd anniversary. Jamaica’s Dancehall duo Tanto Metro and Devonte perform live,supported by international DJs like Teddy Jam and Rizal. DJ Ebony flies in from Miami for an intense music session that you do not want to miss. Jamaican food will be served from noon until late.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Jessie-May Smart

Pub grub An Nada Lounge at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel celebrates chicken dishes this month. From 1pm until 1am, guests can indulge in herbed crumbed chicken drumsticks, Mexican chicken tacos, chargrilled chicken, smokey BBQ buffalo chicken wings and chicken lollipops. Prices vary from BD3.500++ to BD4.500++.

For all those who love the feisty food of Central America, enjoy a month of enchiladas at the Mezzanine Lounge at Kempinski Grand Hotel.

Available throughout the day from until the end of the month, these dishes expose your taste buds to an explosion of Mexican flavours.

Choose from a selection of three delicious enchiladas: crispy chicken strips with capsicum and sour cream; prawns with coriander and chilly; and mushroom and sweet corn with avocado and sour cream. All three dishes come with cheddar cheese.

New in town The Fuse is the new British band that takes the stage at Rocky’s CafÊ at Ramee International Hotel in Juffair. The septet delivers a variety of music genres, like rock and roll, hip-hop, pop, disco and reggae. Dance to house music and the latest chartbusters every night from 9pm onwards. DJ Tripz spins a progressive blend of house, rock, hip-hop, new age, funk, electro, Motown and top forties for those who hate to leave the dance floor.

Fuse

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 155

afterdark sunday What: Sports & Shots Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan A single shot goes a long way here. Unlimited drinks for BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: FBI Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza For those in hospitality industry, the menu is offered at half price.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Quiz Night Where: JJ’s Irish Pub & Restaurant Take part in the famous JJ’s quiz and win prizes for each round.

E Call 17 742-323.

What: Hop Fest Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden Unlimited brews and a lavish buffet at BD9++ from 7 to 10 pm.

E Call 39 159-912.

What: Grape Fest Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden Grape tasting with cheese and vegies for BD8.5++ from 7-10 pm.

E Call 39 159-912.

What: Microphone Madness Where: JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant One of island’s popular theme nights; free shot for every singer.

E Call 17 742-323.

What: Live-Oke Where: Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Here’s your chance to sing with the band live on stage.

E Call 39 046-715

tuesday What: Candy Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Dine in a candy shop! Colours pop in the decor and on plates.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Jam Nights Where: Downtown, InterContinental Regency Jam with the band and receive a free drink.

E Call 17 227-777

What: Boys Night Out Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Enjoy a 20 percent off on Bullfrog and bucket beer for BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Spiritual Sundays Where: Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Enjoy a fun-filled evening with special offers on all house spirits.

E Call 39 046-715

What: Cocktail Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Happy hours continue; buy one get one free offer on all drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

t

What: Games Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Pool, darts, board games and extended happy hours.

E Call 39 922-583.

monday

What: Nostalgic Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Not only music makes you nostalgic but the reduced prices too.

E Call 38 381-631.

wednesday

What: Becks Jam Nite Where: Club Buffalo, Ramee California Rock out on stage with the band and get a free Becks pint.

E Call 17 826-001.

What: Drink and Sing Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Free drinks for the best voice in this multilingual Karaoke Night E Call 36 020-750.

What: Sushi Night Where: Muju, The Dragon Sushi platter with unlimited select beverages at BD14.

E Call 16 033-833.

What: Pint and Jam Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Jam with the in-house band and enjoy four pints of beer @ BD9.9.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Paellas Night Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Sea Food and Paellas made from freshest ingredients and rice.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Premium Promo Where: Club Buffalo, Ramee California Enjoy a selection of premium spirits and mixers for BD2.

E Call 33 731-000.

What: Karaoke Nights Where: Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Sing the night away while pouring drinks with your close mates.

E Call 17 313-000.

What: 4 Pint Pitcher Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Quench your thirst with discounts on all pitchers at the bar.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Corners, The Dragon Resort Partake in the growing madness around the mic with each drink.

E Call 16 031-113.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Champions Lounge, The K Hotel Enjoy a game of darts and pool or even sing your favourite song.

E Call 36 249-807.

What: Quiz & Curry Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Join the fun as you test your GK and enjoy some hot Indian curries.

E Call 39 922-583.

saturday

What: Brainiac's Fun Quiz Night Where: Corners, The Dragon Resort Fun-filled trivia quiz with prizes galore — free entry.

E Call 16 031-113.

thursday What: Hot Grill Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grande Live barbecue stations dish out a wide buffet of tantalising treats.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Steak Night Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Order your favourite prime cuts and get a pint of beer free.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Thursday Night Grills Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa A meat bazaar with marinades of your choice for BD12.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Retro Night Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Resort & Spa Sway to some classic tunes as you drink in some retro magic.

E Call 36 020-750.

What: Sports & Shots & Warbler Nightingale Where: The Warbler, Ramee Baisan Get a bucket beer for BD9.9 with nightlong Karaoke.

E Call 38 381-631.

What: Karaoke Nights Where: Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Sing the night away with your buddies and smashing cocktails.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Cocktail Night Where: Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Continuing happy hours; get buyone-get-one-free on all drinks.

E Call 17 531-122.

What: Chill Out Saturday Where: Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Enjoy soothing music and BBQ preparations by the pool.

E Call 17 313-333.

What: Jazz Night Where: Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden An evening of acoustic jazz with the in-house band True Blue.

E Call 17 710-338.

What: Hoteliers’ Night Where: Downtown, InterContinental Regency Flash your card for a discount if part of the hospitality industry.

E Call 17 227-777.

What: Karaoke Night Where: Kicks, Hotel Diva Start the weekend with a spirited singalong with friends.

E Call 39 922-583.

friday What: Drink and Sing Where: Zodiac Lounge, Elite Resort & Spa Free drinks for the best voice in this multilingual Karaoke Night.

E Call 36 020-750.

156 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Shanay Holmes

RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Spice Up Your Life A look-and-sound-alike quintet takes the stage at this American-Irish pub, inviting you to take a trip back to the’90s.

When? May 9 Event? Tribute act Venue? Dublin Club, Ramee Palace Hotel Hope everyone is ready for some ‘in your face’ girl power. On May 9, it’s time to ‘spice up your life’ as the UK’s top tribute to The Spice Girls comes to Dublin Club at the Ramee Palace Hotel for an exclusive performance.

Simply Spice Girlz, a naughty but nice group of five feisty females, will be live on stage performing all the biggest hits of the girl band. The repertoire includes their debut single Wannabe, a number one hit in more than 30 countries, and other worldwide smashes which made them the bestselling female group of all time. Known by their nicknames (Scary, Baby, Ginger, Posh and Sporty), they were the pop culture icons of the nineties.

RAMEE GROUP OF HOTELS

All the Single Ladies It’s going to be a hot summer in the Kingdom as these nightclubs line up tributes to two gorgeous celebrities of Hollywood — Beyoncé Knowles and Britney Spears.

Girl power This spectacular tribute act comes packed with high-energy dance routines, costume changes and plenty of audience participation. With all the songs carefully handpicked from the best highlights of the live shows and tours, you can be sure to expect a fast-paced, visually exhilarating performance with unbeatable entertainment value for everyone.

Tickets are available in advance at Dublin Club. Choose from an unlimited drinks package for BD20 or the diners’ option with a three-course dinner and a drink. On the night, there will be limited entry tickets for BD5.

Just ‘say you’ll be there’. i Call 39 736-547.

I Am Beyoncé is a tribute band dedicated to one of the world’s most iconic female singers — Beyoncé. Shanay Holmes’ powerhouse vocals, explosive dance routines and stunning costumes work the way through hit after hit of floor-filling dance anthems and breathtaking ballads.

Shanay’s 50-minute sets include all Beyoncé’s hits, like Single Ladies, Crazy in Love and Run the World. She also performs Destiny’s Child classics, like Bootilicious and Survivor.

If You Seek Britney is UK’s number one tribute to the legendary Britney Spears. This show features identical costumes from Britney’s tours and stunning live vocals with phenomenal choreography. Be prepared to be taken through all the hits of Britney’s decade-long career, including hits like Baby One More Time, Toxic, Slave 4 U and Oops I Did It Again.

If You Seek Britney is the closest thing to Britney Spears out of America.

This act has performed in the Middle East, Asia and Europe.

The tour of these acts will begin on May 15 at Club F1 at Metropolitan Hotel from 11pm. Drink until you drop for BD20 or get a main course and beverage at the combined price of BD10. i Call 38 381-641 or 39 098-607.

The second leg of the show will be held at Club Buffalo at Ramee California Hotel on May 16 from 10pm. The unlimited drinks package is available for BD20. Enjoy a gala dinner buffet and a beverage for BD10. Entry is priced at BD5 for gents. i Call 39 688-207, 36 131-020 or 33 142-651. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Spice Girlz

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bystander

DJ Sam Cannon

Ali, Miled, Mardiros & Jetson

Hed Kandi Nights Coral Bay played host to the Hed Kandi "GLAMOUR & GLITZ" The Grand Prix Closing Party last month. This year’s event featured Hed Kandi resident, DJ Sam Cannon from the UK and the Kandi dancers and gave party people an amazing closing night for the Grand Prix’s 10th anniversary Michael, Anna, Georgina, Chris & Elie Kate & Henri

Dalia & Hiba

Andrea, Amarie, Angelina & Isabella

Youlina & Galina

Ashley, Shiv, Gizem & Mickey

Salma, Rani & Hana

Tony & Juliya

Vivek, Ian & James

BMMI Tasting Of Fine Vintage BMMI held a tasting of some fine vintage for a number of guests at the Mövenpick Hotel last month

Janet, Shreeja, Vivek, Ian, Shankar & Sallu

Gizem, Burak, Kim & Rich

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Heinz & Nizar

Sara, Mark & Kate

Basel

Hanne, Bassem & Sophie

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What’s New Edited by Maryam Toorani

Revel in colour Summer loves colour with a passion.

The Chanel Makeup Studio dreams up a collection of shades to reveal infinite combinations on the nails and lips with this new range of beauty proudcts.

Available at leading retailers.

Glamour at its finest Sleek, classy designs are at the forefront of the brand-new spring/summer 2014 collection from GF Ferré. The range of watches seeks to provide a new sense of fashion to the market.

Available at A La Mode.

A woman’s best friend The Adore collection from Misaki adds a touch of Parisian chic to any style. The earrings display a prong setting on the top pearl and the matching sautoir reveals open work on decorative elements set with white pavé cubic zirconium. Available at A La Mode.

Make a statement For a fresh, stylish new look, check out Kipling’s selection of handbags, backpacks, luggage, tote bags and wallets. The brand born in Belgium has more than 25 years of experience in the business. Its bags are effortlessly stylish, colourful and fun, while being practical and durable. Available at Jashanmal.

Parisian chic Bold block colours, darling prints, tie dye and bright florals make up New Look’s new Parisian range by Label Lounge. Rock this black and white frock for a fun summer look.

Available at New Look.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 159

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

Enchanting Flora

Known for its immaculate craftsmanship and iconic designs, this jewellery brand unfurls a bouquet of charming creations this season.

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Adorn yourself with a slice of spring with Van Cleef & Arpels’ Cosmos collection, which offers an abundance of diamonds, mother-of-pearl and onyx. With their subtle blend of softness and brilliance, these creations pay homage to nature and luck — two of the jewellery house’s most cherished sources of inspiration.

The iconic four-heart-shaped petal motif has evolved from its first version, which was presented in the 1950s.

The pieces display a graceful interplay of materials performing what the brand calls “precious duets”.

The shimmer of mother-of-pearl complements the softness of pink gold. Onyx and white gold compose a refined and luminous duet, suffused with timeless elegance. This combination of materials provides two new interpretations of the collection and breathes life into each piece.

The rings unfurl the graceful petals between your fingers. Offering a touch of refinement, a diamond petal glitters in the sun and adds a note of asymmetry. The earrings are available in two sizes; the pendants gently illuminate the hollow of the neck. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Natural allure Always a major source of inspiration, nature provides the jewellery house with its finest materials. In keeping with Van Cleef & Arpels’ tradition of excellence, they are chosen according to the most stringent criteria.

Produced naturally inside seashells, mother-of-pearl is one of their favourite materials to work with. It lends its milky sheen, glistening with captivating overtones and evoking femininity and gentleness in the designs. The mother-of-pearl used by Van Cleef & Arpels comes from Indonesia and Japan; it is known for its regular surface and high quality sheen.

Considered to be a part of Venus’s body, onyx has been a sought-after material since ancient times. Hailing from Brazil, it is noted for its deep black colour and highly polished surface, which reflects light like a mirror. The onyx used for the Cosmos collection has been chosen for its level of brilliance.

A crystal made of pure carbon, the diamond’s hardness, transparency and sparkle have fascinated mankind across civilisations and throughout history. This precious stone has often been associated with protection, purity and immortality and is a token of undying love. The firm’s

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diamond creations boast some great quality stones with colour rated at D, E or F and with a clarity rating of IF, VVSI or VVS2, reflecting Van Cleef & Arpels’ jewellery its exceptional brilliance.

Jewels for all moods Combine different models in multiple variations to create your own personal style. Cosmos pendants set with white mother-of-pearl can match the softness of the Perlée collection in pink gold; the new pieces in white gold complement the ethereal flowers of Frivole creations.

The collection blends naturally with Alhambra, the brand’s emblematic lucky motif. You are free to play with these symbols and materials to compose your own bejewelled bouquet.

These pieces symbolise a delicate romance that has been perfected by the creators at Van Cleef & Arpels.

Those who value the finest craftsmanship and quality materials can appreciate the beauty of the enchanted garden that this brand has created over the years. i Call 17 131-122.

May 2014 161

marketplace KOOHEJI JEWELLERY

The Regal Bride

Presenting a line of stellar creations, this company ensures all eyes are on you as you dazzle on the most important day of your life.

From dream couture to exotic locales, a bride wants only the best for her wedding. One of the region’s leading jewellery stores has just the kind of awe-inspiring jewellery to fit the need. It complements the bride’s natural glow and makes her look like royalty.

The design team at Kooheji Jewellery has drawn inspiration form the floral bounty of a sultana’s garden.

The majestic pieces combine the delicate richness of natural shapes of flowers and foliage with the robust structure of the branches, delivering a unique combination of beauty, strength and pride.

Each set is one of a kind, which enables the bride to enjoy wearing an exclusive piece of exceptionally high quality jewellery. Certified gold is encrusted with handpicked diamonds of the finest colour and clarity. The rich sparkle of these solitaires is enhanced by the variety of cuts that are used, such as round, princess, pear and marquise. This hand-crafted collection is completely built from a foundation of diamonds.

“We have a strong creative design team, which understands different cultures and trends. With high-end designs like these, they strive for timelessness,” says Aref Al Kooheji, general manager, Kooheji Jewellery.

“Most importantly, we understand how to design the right pieces to reflect the bride’s beauty and personality, and how to make premium jewellery sets that become the centrepiece of a bride’s wedding day.”

The look in this collection is rich, luxurious and elegant. The brilliance comes through with the quality of material used and the craftsmanship that goes into making these pieces.

Mark of excellence Kooheji Jewellery has been bringing to its customers some of the finest jewellery from around the world. Their specially designed pieces stand for timelessness and are a perfect blend of modern innovation and classic designs.

You can find jewellery for all occasions here — weddings, engagements, graduation, birthdays and even religious celebrations.

Aside from offering premium quality gems and jewellery, the staff helps you make the right choice for yourself. A thorough knowledge about the products helps them in assisting clients to carefully choose the perfect piece for the occasion. i Call 17 530-411.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

SHARIF GROUP

Like the Ocean Fashionable and exuding a touch of mystery, this new line of watches embodies the carefree ambience of its birthplace — St Tropez.

The Cruise White Vision timepiece range from TechnoMarine boasts four eye-catching models. Each of them is robustly built for active moments and yet is refined in its look. These watches are the ideal companions for experiences like animated nights along the French Riviera. They fit in perfectly with lively parties and dinners among friends. They are the beat of the memorable summer evening spent by the moonlit sea.

The sleek white monochromatic scheme of each timepiece is a serene backdrop for additional touches of colour, such as electric green. Like stars appearing when the sun goes down, these watches come alive in the twilight thanks to the soft-coloured Superluminova on the dial. The Cruise White Vision takes you round the clock, always looking fresh.

All for colour TechnoMarine timepieces are distinctive. More than just instruments that tell time, these watches express what the brand is and what its team believes in. This Genevabased timepiece manufacturer sees that the world around us is alive with colour and motion. It then creates watches that thrive in today’s world.

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TechnoMarine believes that watches are as much about accessorising as they are about keeping track of time.

While functionality and performance are crucial, the emphasis is on creating watches that are wearer-friendly accessories. It’s not just about what they do; it’s about how they make you look and feel.

Shop for these watches at A La Mode outlets across the Kingdom. i Call 17 179-854.

May 2014 163

marketplace AJM Kooheji Group

Keep It Cool This home appliances brand introduces the world’s first door-in-door refrigerator, allowing quick and easy access. Take a look at the innovative system.

LG Electronics (LG) has launched its latest refrigerators equipped with door-in-door technology. The specially designed two-layered door system features a unique panel that you can open with the quick push of a button, which reveals an unexpected new space to organise your food.

Call off the search Thanks to the innovative system, you can conveniently find and grab your favourite snacks and beverages without having to search every corner of the refrigerator.

In addition to the easy access to frequently sought-after food items, the door-in-door technology helps prevent cold air inside the refrigerator from escaping, ultimately keeping food fresher for longer.

“LG has been committed to delivering outstanding refrigerators that help customers enjoy greater levels of convenience in their lives and ensure that food stays fresh for as long as possible,” says Moon-Bum Shin, executive vice president and CEO of LG Electronics Home Appliance Company. “Customers can put their favourite food items in the door-in-door compartment and easily take them out without opening the whole door. This not only makes life easier, but also safeguards food and cuts down on energy consumption by conserving the cold air inside the fridge.”

Additional features The impressive new refrigerator offers a large capacity along with other unique LG features, including the slim in-door ice maker, which improves space efficiency.

Although it offers a larger inner capacity than competing products, this fridge maintains the same standard exterior size for its class. This is due to LG’s efficient space technology, which lets customers store more food without having to concern themselves about reduced kitchen space. It also comes with LG’s proprietary 10-year warranty linear compressor, which delivers efficient performance with outstanding energy savings.

Furthermore, its stylish exterior can be harmonised seamlessly into almost any kitchen environment, while its innovative interior brings greater flexibility. The refrigerator uses an energy-saving long-life bulb that emits a soft light, adding a special accent to the decor and providing much-appreciated kitchen illumination at night. Additionally, three well-spaced shelves in the freezer offer better use of the interior.

LG’s hygiene filter is also included; this technology serves as the air filtration system for the refrigerator. It helps preserve the freshness and nutritional value of stored food items. The fan actively ventilates the air, while the fourlayer filter sterilises up to 99.9 per cent of bacteria.

LG is associated with AJM Kooheji Group in Bahrain. Hygiene Fresh refrigerators are now available at all LG showrooms, hypermarkets, power retailers and dealer stores. i Call 17 404-590 (Sehla), 17 223-570 (Manama), 17 670-434 (Arad) and 17 322-771 (Muharraq).

164 May 2014

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROYAL PHOENICIA HOTEL

Be Their Guest

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The last thing you want when you walk into a hotel room is to find that they’ve given you a matchbox-sized living space. This new all-suite hotel in the city ensures an impeccable stay.

Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Royal Phoenicia Hotel is a new hotel that recently opened its doors at the quiet place of Umm Al Hassam.

It is conveniently located a short drive away from the Kingdom’s best malls, the business hub and the airport.

Every guest can take advantage of facilities like free Wi-Fi access, a flat screen satellite TV and air conditioning. They can make themselves at home with other provisions like an electric kettle, a mini bar, hairdryer and private bathroom (with bathrobes and slippers).

Guests have two view choices: rooms facing the sea and those facing the pool. What sets the hotel apart are the extras it offers to make sure that your stay in the Kingdom is memorable.

At Royal Phoenicia Hotel, you will find an all-day restaurant. Royal Café serves a buffet breakfast from 6am until 10.30am and an à la carte menu from 6am until midnight. The Sea View bar and lounge lets you unwind after a long day and is a perfect setting to host casual meetings.

Open from noon until 2am, this venue (as the name suggests) offers a spectacular view of the sea.

Aside from the 24-hour room service, this hotel boasts a fitness centre replete with a gym, pool, sauna and Jacuzzi. The banquet hall can accommodate up to 80 persons and a meeting room can host up to 30 persons.

The property also offers free parking. The room categories that a guest can choose from are deluxe, junior suite, executive suite, luxury suite and royal suite. i Call 17 238-844.

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marketplace

BAHRAIN DEVELOPMENT BANK

Enter the Tech Stars Plug-in and start-up your ICT business at the upcoming incubator that aims to accelerate the growth of tech companies in Bahrain.

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Following the success of its incubator services for startup companies in Bahrain, the Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) has turned its attention to the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.

Fledging tech entrepreneurs and companies looking for office space and support can consider Rukn.me, the new incubator project launched by the Bahrain Business Incubator Centre (BBIC), a subsidiary of BDB in partnership with Bahraini business angels fund, Tenmou.

The Middle East Corner Consultancy, or Rukn.me, is a not-for-profit company that aims to have branches in all five governorates in Bahrain. The incubator’s first location, at the Batelco Commercial Centre in Bab Al Bahrain, will start operations in the second quarter of 2014.

The founders hope Rukn.me will nurture a community of technology entrepreneurs by providing them infrastructure where they can share and gain knowledge and experience.

“Rukn.me aims to enable and accelerate the growth of ICT start-ups, facilitating the further development of the ICT sector in Bahrain. The project will contribute towards Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 by focusing on the ICT sector in order to diversify the economy further,” says a BDB official.

The facilities offered at Rukn.me are in line with regional and international benchmarks for tech spaces.

Entrepreneurs will have access to open working spaces furnished with desks and chairs for easy communication.

Enclosed office space will be provided for businesses on request and the incubator will house break-out rooms

appropriate for conferences, workshops, seminars and lectures. A tenants’ meeting room will be fully equipped with communication tools for audio and video conferencing. Other amenities such as a kitchenette, a lounge area, printing facilities, high-speed data connectivity and personal lockers will be available.

The founders aspire to provide software and services to their IT tenants through collaborations and sponsorships from various international technology providers. This comprises advisory services, training and mentorship programmes for the new businesses. Entrepreneurs will also benefit from specialised workshops and seminars led by speakers in the field of entrepreneurship and ICT development.

A preliminary list of tenants has already been identified for the Manama facility, but there is space to accommodate more entrepreneurs and businesses. Tech entrepreneurs with innovative ICT concepts who are in the early stages of their business are eligible to apply.

In addition to BDB, Tenmou is a co-founder of Rukn.me with a 40 per cent stake in the company. The business angles fund is set to play a crucial role in supporting tech entrepreneurs through their mentorship programmes, network linkages, and considering potential projects for business angel funding.

Tenmou will be involved in managing the incubator and in the selection of tenants. In order to be closer to the tech entrepreneurs, Tenmou has now relocated its offices to the Rukn.me branch in Manama. i Visit www.rukn.me or follow on Instagram@rowad_bh www.bahrainthismonth.com

VIVA Graduate Development programme

VIVA Bahrain team receiving the Graduate Development Award

VIVA Chief Human Resources Officer, Saud Al Tami receives National Society for Support of Education & Training award

VIVA

Workforce of the Future This telecommunications company has been actively engaged in several longterm projects aimed at development of the local community. We take a look at its latest initiative.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VIVA’s Graduate Development Programme (GDP) is an initiative geared towards developing the Bahraini workforce of the future. The project has made noteworthy strides since its launch. This strategic initiative targets young graduates and offers them unique career opportunities. This is done together with high-end on-thejob learning opportunities and a well-thought-out development and growth plan.

Recently, VIVA Bahrain was presented with the National Society for Support of Education and Training (NSSET) Award for this programme, which is aimed at nurturing young Bahraini talent. The first edition of the GDP has been successfully completed, offering the first generation of graduates a career opportunity with VIVA, based on their performance.

Introduced in 2012 at the Bahrain Career Expo, the first edition was executed over a 12-month span. It involved professional and technical training of selected graduates through intensive on-the-job training in various sectors of the company, including human

resources, technology, finance, corporate social responsibility and commercial departments.

“The aim of this programme is to build a strong local workforce and develop young professional leaders through intensive and best-in-class professional and technical training,” says Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO. “We are proud to announce that the first generation of professionals has been offered a rewarding career in VIVA. The success and sustainability of the Graduate Development Programme has been recognised by winning another award.”

VIVA’s Graduate Development Programme was also recognised as the Best Graduate Trainee Programme across the Middle East at the Training & Development Awards 2013. Ulaiyan Al Wetaid adds that the company will continue to invest in local talent and accelerate professional development of young graduates to assist in developing the Bahraini workforce of the future. i Visit www.viva.com.bh.

May 2014 167

marketplace BATELCO

An Upgraded Experience

This leading telecommunications service provider announces two new exciting upgrades for its home broadband customers and iPhone users.

Getting an upgrade is always good news and Batelco users can enjoy a double dose of satisfaction this month.

You can now experience a faster broadband service at a more competitive price and get the fastest LTE speed if you own an iPhone.

The good news comes after the service provider announced the largest upgrade of its broadband packages this year. Customers benefit from automatic upgrades that offer higher speeds, bigger thresholds and lower prices.

The upgrade is part of a festival to celebrate the market liberalisation and the freedom given to Batelco’s broadband services by the Bahrain Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). The revamp is just the beginning. More exciting news is to follow in the future as a number of enhancements are being rolled out, including higher speeds, triple threshold limits and lower prices.

Staying connected Batelco offers the lowest fixed broadband rate at BD4.500 per month, for a limited period. The package features a download speed of 1MB and threshold limit of 5GB. “The wide range of packages is designed to suit everyone, from casual users all the way up to those with heavy demand, such as professional users of the Internet, and especially gamers. Additionally, the special limited

168 May 2014

time offer of BD4.500 is great news for anyone looking for an unbeatable Internet deal,” says Muna Al Hashimi, Batelco general manager — consumer division.

If you are in possession of an iPhone, you can enjoy the LTE service. As the official dealer of the smartphone, Batelco has announced the upgrade for new as well as existing customers with an LTE-enabled version.

The telecommunications company believes that the Apple product deserves the fastest network. Accordingly, it has developed matchless high speed packages, featuring free calls and unlimited data, that are great value for money.

“We, at Batelco, continuously strive to enhance our customers’ experience and are pleased to offer the fastest LTE service bundled with top value packages, featuring benefits that are in demand,” Muna adds.

Batelco offers four high-end postpaid packages for the iPhone 5s, priced at BD20, BD25, BD30 and BD50 per month. All packages include unlimited on-net voice calls and unlimited data access.

Additionally, the BD25, BD30 and BD50 packages include 60, 120 and 500 minutes, respectively, of free local calls. Furthermore, the BD50 package features 250 free texts and multimedia messages each month. i Visit www.batelco.com or call 196. www.bahrainthismonth.com

JASHANMAL

Celebrating Fashion and Function

This American lifestyle bag retailer celebrates 40 years of its success through a series of partnerships. Take a look at the special collections released this year.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Established in 1974 in New York City, LeSportsac was founded on the principles of being functional and fashionable. The brand celebrates its 40th year in business with a new store design, an e-commerce site, several unique products and various collaborations.

LeSportsac employs the concept of looking back and moving forward across four seasons of retrospective yet modern collections.

“This year, we celebrate every way possible, from capsules in our classic collection to a series of unexpected partnerships. We have collaborated with the best-in-class brands, who share a similar spirit,” says D’Arcy Jensen, vice president and global creative director.

Inspired by the original designs from 1974, the Classic Anniversary Collection features details, such as the

original zipper pull, the tricolour logo and contrasting trims. Vintage styles, such as the Pullman and Camera bag, are updated and reintroduced to the fashion scene.

This spring, LeSportsac launches two collaborations, beginning with New York-based Curtis Kulig and his brand Love Me. The Artist Edition series consists of three prints that feature Kulig’s Love Me motif. Each print comes in various styles resulting in a cool and urban collection with a touch of sweetness.

The second half of the year is filled with surprises.

Some lines dip into the past and some look forward.

While maintaining a sense of its heritage, LeSportsac plans to move ahead in innovative and unexpected ways. i Visit www.jashanmalgroup.com.

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marketplace

Imran Shaikh, Head of Bancassurance team with Navneet Kampani

CITIBANK

Longstanding Relationships Through a unique initiative, Citibank Bahrain has taken its engagement with its customer base to a different level.

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Citibank Bahrain is celebrating the success of its unique Bancassurance model in the Kingdom. The Bank Insurance Model, also known as Bancassurance, is an alliance between a bank and an insurance company for distribution of insurance products through the bank’s distribution channels.

Through its exclusive collaboration with MetLife Alico in the long-term insurance coverage category, Citibank has been systematically working towards the objective of increasing insurance penetration levels in Bahrain by educating the people about insurance services. The opportunity was recognised early on as the clients’ needs in Bahrain evolved rapidly in terms of their financial planning requirements. In this manner, Citibank’s strategy of embedding bancassurance services as a key component of their wealth management proposition in Bahrain is yielding strong and positive results.

This strategy has coincided with the Cental Bank of Bahrain’s focus on revitalising and growing the insurance services industry in Bahrain. In line with its ethos of having the right and suitable resources, Citibank has embraced the local licensing requirements and has currently registered the maximum number of staff in order to engage with clients on insurance-related discussions on the island.

Last year, Citibank announced the formation of a specialist team — the bancassurance sales team — to further focus on this strategic initiative of advocating and cross-selling insurance and insurance-linked investment products.

This highly trained team’s focus is on conducting a detailed profiling exercise with clients to understand their knowledge and experience, risk capacity and risk attitudes. Alongside this profiling exercise, there’s a stepby-step ‘need assessment’ process helping the client objectively assess his or her financial planning needs, time horizon, affordability and objectives.

This holistic and unique approach makes it easy to choose the right solution for the client and harbours trust.

“The Bancassurance unit has been quite successful and has been setting new benchmarks in performance within a short span of time,” notes Navneet Kampani, head of consumer banking at Citibank Bahrain.

“We are looking at building up this team through hiring and investing in our talent pool to further solidify our position as a market leader in providing long-term insurance solutions in Bahrain,” he says.

In order to have a market-leading combination, it is important to combine the right team with a strong product portfolio. Through the active support of its exclusive partner, MetLife Alico, Citibank has a wide range of long-term insurance products to cater to the varied needs of local and expatriate clients. From pure protection to unit-linked plans, single premium options to regular savings plans for longer terms, critical illness coverage to accidental riders — Citibank has constantly endeavoured to provide effective solutions for wealth creation, education planning, retirement planning and future protection. i Call 17 201-759. www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROCHE BOBOIS

Not Just Furniture Featuring unique designs that reflect your personal taste and sophistication of the times, these furniture pieces make you feel at home.

Cocoon Large 3-Seat Sofa From the collection Nouveaux Classiques comes this timeless piece of furniture that adds a warm, welcoming touch to your living room. Born out of a reinterpretation of period styles, this authentic design transcends time and fashion. It blends finest quality natural materials, traditional know-how and imagination of the designers to create a piece that has a genuineness and charm of its own.

The sofas boast a clean design that can belong to an urban apartment or a countryside villa. Upholstered in fabric from the Cocoon collection, it comes with entirely removable slipcovers. The padded seat cushions are in cotton batting on a high-density HR foam core. The black cushions are in 100 per cent goose feather and foam. The set comes in a variety of dimensions; ottomans and armchairs are also available.

Chronos Dining Table Made of anodised aluminium, this sleek piece effortlessly fits into any kind of room to add a touch of contemporary glamour. The table is part of Roche Bobois’ Les Contemporains collection that imbibes the functionality required in smaller urban spaces and lends a stylish look.

The clear glass top adds sharp sophistication to your dining space without overpowering the complete look of the room. There is a range of five different shades to choose from; the shape of the table complements any colour scheme. The design is progressive with two integrated extension leaves that are easy to operate.

Cocoon Sofa

Mah Jong Bed

Mah Jong Bed From one of Roche Bobois’ signature series, this bed can brighten any dull space. A statement piece in itself, the hand-stitched finish and organic appeal make it a comfort zone for people of all ages and tastes.

From the Les Contemporains collection, this bed is a blend of modern design and Bohemian sensibilities. It is designed by Marco Furnagallui, who drew inspiration from the Mah Jong sofa design by Hans Hopfer in 1971.

Upholstered in printed Missoni home fabric and plain 1005 Indy fabrics, the Mah Jong bed boasts premium quality and a modest demeanour. It has padded headboard cushions and an adjustable metal base. i Call 17 582-901.

Chronos Dining Table

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 171

marketplace LOST PARADISE OF DILMUN

Keeper of a Paradise It might just be a day of sun and splash for you, but there is an entire team that relentlessly works behind the scenes to make your day at a water park such a blast.

Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) waterpark is undoubtedly one of the region’s most popular theme parks and a huge amount of credit goes to its team, which for seven years has continued to manage this world-class leisure and entertainment facility. Strengthening it further, is Ahmed Salim who recently joined LPOD as operations & business development manager.

From humble beginnings as a life guard 14 years ago, he brings his wealth of experience of managing state-of-theart facilities around the world.

“Although I was involved with Lost Paradise from the very beginning, I took complete charge of the property not too long ago,” says Ahmed. “I even came here for a visit in 2011 and shared my views on the property with the general manager.”

He speaks fervently about the warm reception and support he received from his fellow colleagues and team.

Aware of the potential of the park, Ahmed says he knew it wasn’t going to be difficult to sell.

“What I am selling here is respite from the sun; a fun experience with your family and friends. How difficult can that be to sell?” he comments. The season started in high energy, kicking off in March with a Holi celebration, which saw a turnout of over 2,500 people.

“Holi is a big hit in water parks in the UAE, and as this popular celebration calls for a big venue. We are thankful that the organisers thought of holding it in Bahrain’s biggest waterpark.” Ahmed notes.

Looking ahead “As for the attractions to look forward to, we are soon going to introduce aqua soccer, which is soccer played on a cushioned floor with sprinklers on top. It’s similar to playing in the rain,” he explains.

The entire season is expected to be filled with more events and exciting activities. This will include themed months, special shows and fun for the entire family.

“LPOD has also become a platform for young Bahrainis to showcase their talent and we are proud to say some of the people that started with us have now become true blue performing artists” “In the entertainment and amusement sector, one must be proactive and not reactive. We have to constantly be on top of our game in order to remain new and interesting and ensure a regular clientele,” Ahmed says.

“I saw the transition period of Dubai and Bahrain’s evolving in a similar fashion. Tourism is increasing; hospitality and entertainment industries are doing great.

So I hope to see more competitors that will push us to constantly innovate and be ahead of our game,” he adds. i Visit www.lpodwaterpark.com.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

Big Screen Action If you’re after some new gadgets, then you should visit Lulu Hypermarket, where you can expect to find the most competitive offers on the latest products.

Sony PS3

The 2014 FIFA World Cup is a few months away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some competitive football right away. This exciting package from Lulu Hypermarket offers gamers a PS3 500GB console, a DualShock 3 controller and a FIFA World Cup 2014 Brazil game.

Editor's pick!

Philips 50-inch LED TV

Get powerful performance and LED brilliance with this slim high-definition TV. Bring the Internet experience to your screen wirelessly with MediaConnect while enjoying SmartTV apps with NetTV features, like Netflix, YouTube, Vudu, Pandora, Hulu Plus and Facebook.

LG 39-inch LED TV

With an impressive performance and design to match, this LG Smart TV looks great from every angle. The style is sleek and minimal and perfectly complements the brand’s brilliant picture impact.

Samsung Galaxy S5 The Galaxy S5 excels at everything that matters.

Featuring Android 4.4 KitKat OS, this smartphone boasts a beautiful display, a quad-core processor and an excellent camera experience.

Lulu Hypermarkets can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2014 173

marketplace FRASER SUITES

Celebrating a Milestone One of the leading names in the hospitality industry, this chain of fivestar serviced apartments turns 16 this year!

From two properties in 1998, the Fraser brand has grown to a worldwide presence today with 92 establishments across 49 cities in 16 years. Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain marked the hospitality group’s sweet 16th, called Fraser Day, by celebrating the spectacular growth of the Singapore brand of serviced residences.

“It has been a challenging 16 years, with recession in 1998, the 9/11 crisis in 2001, SARS in 2003, and the global financial crisis sparked off by the US sub-prime crisis followed by the collapse of financial institution Lehman Brothers in 2008,” says Choe Peng Sum, chief executive officer, Frasers Hospitality. “But through it all, Frasers Hospitality grew at a compounded annual growth rate of 22 per cent!”

Frasers Hospitality has three brands of gold-standard serviced residences: Fraser Suites, Fraser Place and Fraser Residence. In addition to these, there is Modena by Fraser, targeted at the “work hard, play hard” business traveller, and Capri by Fraser, a design-led hotel residence aimed at younger clientele.

The company is aiming to almost double its inventory to 30,000 serviced apartments over the next five years.

“With state-of-the-art facilities, great service and lifestyle choices, we have seen unbroken growth in our 16-year journey and are confident to meet the goal to double this in the next five years,” adds Choe. i Call 17 569-333.

SYED JUNAID ALAM

Intense Personality Combining experience and innovation for over a century, the perfumery has distinguished itself through successful creations of oils, perfumes and incense.

Defining a strong identity this season is the all-new Wujood from Junaid Perfumes. Designed for a man who stands tall and distinct, this fragrance is an intense combination of rose, musk and sandalwood oils that uniquely outlines a strong personality.

Created for the modern man in line with Arab traditions, Wujood has been designed to be worn on the traditional gatra. Its distinct fragrance exudes sophistication and lingers on for hours without leaving a stain on the fabric.

Wujood is elegantly packed in a 100ml bottle, which is adorned with gold and silver leaves and a gold crown that reflects the spirit and uniqueness of this masculine cologne. Wujood is available at all Junaid Perfumes outlets for BD20.

Understanding the brand Junaid Perfumes has come a long way since its inception, building a reputation that has blossomed into a household industry name. Combining experience and innovation for over a century, the perfumery has distinguished itself through successful creations of oils, perfumes and incense.

Factors like seasons, fashion trends and after-effects are kept in mind before a scent is born. Over the years, innovative thinking and profound creativity have enabled the company to achieve a competitive advantage in the perfume industry.

Each fragrance is placed in exclusively designed bottles that combine tradition, elegance and authentic shapes. Throughout its existence in the market, Junaid Perfumes remains a pioneer in the perfume industry, carrying a family legacy of perfection. i Call 17 737-007.

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YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Safe and Sound Access controls

Speakers & amplifiers

CCTV Camera

Door lock quantum

Audio Visual

With continuous technological advancements, there is good reason to look into additional security for your homes and businesses.

If you’re investing in Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro’s (YBYF) innovative and high-tech line of security services, you’ve made a smart decision to protect your people, business and future. Among the many products on offer, the company provides on-site equipment repairs, workshop repair services, fully trained and qualified mobile engineers, technical help desk service and equipment loan replacement service.

Access controls For your home or business, it is advised to invest in the automatic entrance gate system, which will meet all your needs in terms of aesthetics, security, convenience of use and long-term reliability. The options include sliding gates, swing gates and remote control access systems.

Customers can benefit from new-generation turnstiles as well, which provide dependable access control even in unsupervised locations. Solutions for workforce management, time and attendance, access control and job costing applications are other time attendance services provided.

Audio-visual products YBYF blends the latest in display distribution and control technology to provide the best possible audio-visual experience. Providing everything from dynamic presentation set-ups to cutting-edge security options and touch screen automation, this company acts as a complete source of technology for any business.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

CCTV security CCTV security systems installed in public places or retail markets can deter crime, provide the police with leads, help citizens feel safer and improve the economy of a crime-stricken area. The digital surveillance solutions offered by YBYF are designed for a wide range of scenarios, including retail, education, banking, gaming, government, healthcare, hotel and leisure, and transport uses.

Digital signage and video wall YBYF creates, manages and distributes online content.

Fire alarms Fire protection products and systems help you ensure your future. A number of system configurations and solutions are available to meet your specific needs.

Hospitality solutions Perfect for hotels, room management systems are offered by YBYF in the form of customised lighting and room control, which are installed according to each client’s specifications.

Guest room management systems ensure maximum user friendliness and cost-effectiveness. The hospitality industry can benefit from the company’s state-of-the-art electronic locks. i Call 17 408-111.

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marketplace THE CLOSETS

Elegant Kitchens Sophisticated designs and maximum functionality is what everyone expects from their kitchens. This brand specialises in adding style and efficiency to your cooking space.

BERLITZ

Learning is Fun! This summer, children get an excellent opportunity to sharpen their language skills while engaging in fun team activities.

BLIPP THIS PAGE TO: WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT BERLITZ SUMMER CAMP KNOW MORE ABOUT KIDS AND TEENS CLASSES AT BERLITZ BAHRAIN EXPLORE BERLITZ BAHRAIN CONTACT BERLITZ BAHRAIN

176 May 2014

With shrinking living space in urban environments, efficient space management has become a necessity.

Ballerina Küchen, available at The Closets Bahrain, offers high-quality custom cabinetry at a great price. There is a multitude of highlights in function and efficient designs, which make it easier to work in smaller spaces.

Ballerina’s kitchens are structured in the way that customers need them to be, featuring uncomplicated designs and allowing ease of movement. Quality is the paramount concern for the brand; this is evident in the materials and appliances used.

The new collection offers premium quality chrome metal interior equipment with a variety of different corner base units. Customers have the options of wire baskets and carousel shelves. In addition to common hinged doors, Ballerina offers flap, lifting, folding and roller shutter varieties.

They also create separate pantry units with pull-outs on telescopic rails, which are practical. These functional units can rotate up to 90 degrees on both sides, providing more storage space. With the innovative Agantis and Agantis-Top range, Ballerina offers one of the most exciting developments in the kitchen market. This is a drawer and pull-out design that maximises space and delivers functionality with several cutlery and interior divisions. All products are available in real hardwood with alder, maple and oak finishes as well as stain colours.

“We take great pride in the level of commitment and service that we provide. Our success is a reflection of our clients’ trust in our work,” says Ali Al Haddad, managing director, The Closets. i Call 17 612-610.

Learning a language is a wonderful opportunity for kids to broaden their view of the world. This summer, register your kids at the Berlitz Learning Centre for a fun and interactive initiation to learning a new language in their summer camp.

The camp is not just about improving your child’s language and speaking skills, but a holistic exercise that stresses on creativity and problem solving. Aside from language classes, there will be art and craft sessions,cut and paste games, cooking classes, treasure hunts and much more.

“Our experience has taught how to combine fun activities with the learning process and we look forward to a great summer with the kids,” says Ali Reyadh Al Banna, language instructor at the institute.

With the Kingdom being a potpourri of different cultures and nationalities, this is good opportunity for the children to learn about diversity.

For parents who want their children to have an extra academic push, Berlitz has tutoring modules that help in mentoring children with schoolwork. This programme is available in Arabic, English, French and other languages.

Native speakers support the children, using exclusively the language they are learning — according to the Berlitz method.

The Budaiya branch offers parents an opportunity to learn languages, with an option to schedule their classes at the same time as their child, allowing maximum convenience and a fun learning experience. i Call 17 827-847. www.bahrainthismonth.com

SAAR MALL

Neighbourhood Hub From fresh groceries to latest fashion and great evenings out, this new mall acts as the perfect hang-out, which is much needed in the Saar neighbourhood.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Saar residents no longer have to endure long traffic snarls to get to the nearest shopping complex. A new mall in the district offers a range of leading stores, a supermarket and a number of dining and entertainment options — all under one roof.

Owned by the Bokhowa Group, the mall is a two-storey complex. A mixed-use commercial development centre, the property is managed by Dara Real Innovations and is located on the road which connects Saar and Janabiya.

Saar Mall is home to several up-market brands, restaurants, cafés and Géant Easy, a supermarket. The list of other retail outlets includes Sorella, Sydney Telecom, Intellex, Art Corners, Ehsan Optics, BFC, Zohoor Al Reef, Rasasi and Gulf Pharmacy.

The impressive building offers a calm environment unlike other shopping hubs; so visitors can relax, study, or even have meetings. Those in a hurry can make use of the specially designed drive-thru.

The majestic, sweeping staircase gives a spectacular view of the biggest aquarium in Bahrain and leads to a floor of bistros and restaurants, salons such as N.SPA, Kristine La femme belle Salon and furniture boutiques like Innovation Furniture and the Al Abraj Galery and telecommunication stores, Zain, Viva and Batelco.

The mall is as much an entertainment centre as it is a place to shop. There are 17 exciting eating concepts offering different styles of cuisine. Kurtus Café serves authentic Hungarian pastries that you can enjoy with a cup

of Italian coffee and EZ Burger provides a hearty meal with their Angus beef burgers. For a quick bite you can head to Starbucks, Costa Coffee, Le Chocolat, Jasmis and Yum Yum Tree. Enjoy a sweet treat at Dolci Desideri and Yug Mania.

For your organic foods’ supply head to Beau Bites.

The food court boasts 10 live-cooking stations that use fresh ingredients and prepare the food according to your preference. Add to this a 9-D cinema and you have a day filled with entertainment and activity, away from the scorching heat.

A family mall The developers of the mall have made special efforts to keep the premises family friendly, with a separate kids’ play area at Yellow Submarine and The Party Hall. Coming up soon is a cooking studio ‘Ready Get Set Cook’ that introduces a fun interactive activity that both kids and parents can participate in. In addition to this, young ones can enjoy the rides at Kids’ Palace Toys.

The mall also houses service providers like SADAD, Al Baraka Bank, Ithmar Bank and will soon have a Standard Chartered branch as well.

“Our key focus is on families; we want to develop the mall as a kids-friendly zone. Three separate regions have been developed bearing this in mind,” says Samira Zaamane, retail site manager at Dara Real Innovation. i Call 17 790-203 or 39 913-513.

May 2014 177

marketplace YATEEM CENTRE

Mall ‘May’hem With a number of new outlets, this mall invites you to enjoy the May Day weekend as you indulge in some serious retail therapy.

This Labour Day weekend, visit Bahrain’s oldest and one of the most popular malls for a fun day out with your family. From retail outlets to a number of dining options, there is plenty to see and do at Yateem Centre.

There has been a recent rush of new shops, the latest being Al Adil Trading, which opened last month. A new photography studio has also opened in the centre with Al Hassanen Digital relocating from their longestablished business on Al Khalifa Avenue.

HOME ELECTRONICS

New Gadget, New You

New boutiques The pleasant surprise to be discovered is Jalila Show Fashion, a new Moroccan-influenced boutique with traditional clothes for the modern woman. Among the highlights are the leather goods. Walk in to check out the collection of bags and belts.

If you are in for some retail therapy, take the time to visit Bedaya Boutique. This shop has expanded their traditional range of quality Italian lingerie to include great shoes and accessories.

Another recent arrival is the Al Asraar Boutique at the main entrance on the ground floor; it is a huge hit with young women looking for trendy wear. If you haven’t already done so, go and try on one of Haraka’s t-shirts, even if it’s only for the experience of entering the trial room through the door of a fridge! i Call 17 215-615.

This month, this electronics store offers new gizmos that will make your day-to-day living all the more comfortable.

The world of technology is ever growing. It’s hard to keep up with the latest releases of high-tech televisions, slim tablets and kitchen appliances.

Home Electronics can make any techno newbie look like a gadget wizard with their range of products.

Movie buffs can invest in the popular 55-inch Smart TV from LG. With 3D cinema viewing, Wi-Fi and HDMI input options, this television is set to enthral viewers with the ultimate home theatre experience.

If you, like the rest of the modern world, are obsessed with on-the-go connectivity, the new Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphone offers users an online world like no other. With a 5.10-inch display, a quad-core processor and an excellent camera experience, the S5 excels at everything that matters.

The Sony PS4 Console First Limited Pack with PlayStation Camera is also on offer at Home Electronics; this is without doubt a treat for gamers.

Powerful enough to handle everyday workplace computing tasks, yet still reliable and affordable, the HP Pro All-in-One 3520 PC is all you need to seamlessly run your business. You are offered a great-looking PC with a heritage of quality and reliability and technology ready to meet your needs.

Home owners can spruce up their living spaces with the showroom’s colourful collection of acrylic items that range from salad bowls, breakfast sets, cake trays, nut dividers, cutlery storage systems and cake baskets.

For products that can make your life easier, visit the Home Electronics showroom in Isa Town. i Call 17 878-888 or 33 314-288.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Craig David

DJ Adam Clay

Sam & Laura

Craig David At Klub 360 Craig David performed exclusively at Klub 360 as the 2014 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix got underway. The English singer and songwriter flew directly from Miami to perform. He was supported by DJ Adam Clay Sidd, Craig David & Hatim at the press conference Dee & Natalie

Megan & Rick

Isabella, Andrea & Katrina with Rick

Angelina

DJ Judge Jules

Rashida, Helen & Luzen

Katrin

Payal & Yagna

Natali, Sara & Reem

FTV Party At Coral Bay Coral Bay hosted one of the biggest parties of the year with the return of Fashion TV (FTV), which will be headlined by DJ Judge Jules during the F1 weekend

Ahmed, Ameera, Lillian & Salman

Lamar & Reem

Jem, Sam & Yol

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sara, Gilbert & Nawal

Loni & Patrice

Mary, Roy & Dunia

Burak & Gizem

May 2014 179

bystander

Maria, Saido & Joe

Ashleigh & Charles

Ayad, Sager & Ashish

Scott & Csilla

Ashish & Antony

Tex & Brittany

Linkin Park Tribute At Club Buffalo A Linkin Park tribute band gave rock fans a night to remember at Club Buffalo at the Ramee California Hotel in Juffair The band rocks the house

Jesse, Tom, Rob & Dustin

Anett & Adam

Anthony & Felix

Bahrain Hotel’s Concierge Group Top representatives of the hospitality industry and guests attended the first annual gala dinner hosted by Bahrain Hotel’s Concierge Group at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa last night.

It was held under the patronage of the Culture Ministry’s Tourism Affairs assistant under-secretary Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa with hotel managers & members of the group Eric & Ali

Jassim Al Zayani, Betsy & Samy

180 May 2014

David & Bless

John & Hussain

Volker & Rahim

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winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

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Where is GulfBID held? ___________________________ Who is the ambassador for Turkey? ___________________________ Where can you find Juffair Heights? ___________________________

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Benedicta Lila Second Place : Pradeep K. Saxena Third Place : Ritchel A. Loyola

Who accesses a supercomputer to offer 3D servcies? ___________________________

2. Mishal Al Sh’ala 3. April 13-19

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Which car did we test drive? ___________________________ For which society is Shaikha Hind the chairperson? ___________________________

5. Graeme Lowdon

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7. McDonald’s 8. IWC 9. Beats Music 10. Nissan

2.

Ad Seek 1. BMW/Euro Motors 2. Genprise Co. 3. Tony Luke’s 4. Lightex

Name:

Address:

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9 10

Who has published an employee handbook? ___________________________ What is our app this month? ___________________________ Which burger outlet is located at The Walk? ___________________________

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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4. Bahrain International Exhibition & Conference Centre 6. Mercedes-Benz

Where can you ‘Dine with Friends’? ___________________________

lanterns

Last month’s solutions 1. 10

4

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!

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Telephone:

Email:

cpr:

Entry deadline is April 15. 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.

Mah raj a Din in g

Fusion Cuisine of 4.

May 2014 181

tarotscope

taurus

Apr 21 – May 20 When it comes to romance there are few signs who can match your enthusiasm for matters of the heart. This month you will be focusing on little else because a certain special person has really taken hold of your emotions. What you should do is make certain you don’t rush in feet first. Take your time. The individual in question — while interested — is the type of person who likes the chase associated with any new relationship, so try to be patient. On the health front, if that pain in your leg is still bothering you then get it checked out. It might be more than just a muscular problem and someone with experience needs to look at it.

Card of the Month — The Four of Pentacles For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Gemini May 21 – June 20 Last month it was relationships that were top of the problems to solve list for many of you; this month things appear to have calmed down in that area. Instead, a new set of financial concerns have arisen that will put you in a difficult situation with a particular family member. Your earnings have taken a hit recently and the impact this is having on everyday life is starting to affect everyone.

You may have to put some drastic emergency measures in place for the short term until you manage to dig yourself out of this particular hole. It won’t last forever but it could be a tough ride, for the next few weeks at least.

Card of the Month — The Eight of Cups

cancer June 21 – July 20 Many of you could be in a reflective state of mind this month as you deliberate over recent events in your life that have led you to where you are today. While you might not have too much to really complain about, if you analyse your current situation you will see that this is true and there is a regret which has stayed with you for some time. It might be that you need to finally address this issue because in some way it has held you back, and even perhaps influenced your decisions over the last few years. A little like an itch you have never been quite able to scratch, 2014 should be the year that you get it sorted once and for all. But it might not be plain sailing all the way.

Card of the Month — The Three of Wands 182 May 2014

LEO July 21 – August 21 If you’ve been under pressure from financial and emotional burdens then the good news is that things are going to get a lot easier over the next few weeks, with many of your problems being blown away as a partner’s good fortune impacts on you in a positive manner. This might clear a little of the debris that has obstructed your long-term view and you will be able to better organise your thoughts towards future plans with more confidence and conviction.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Cups

virgo August 22 – September 21 For many of you the last few months have been something of a learning curve and you have discovered things about yourself that you never realised. Whether you feel a better person for the experience is another matter entirely but at least you will be able to look back on the situation in years to come and say you are wiser for it. On the relationship front you are feeling a little annoyed about a partner’s behaviour concerning a responsibility that they initially committed to, but have since tried to leave in your lap. You need to put your foot down otherwise you’ll be left with the burden in the future.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

libra September 22 – October 21 Many of you may have felt like you’ve been pinned beneath a weight of emotional pressure recently as the burden of trying to keep your head above water during difficult times has become too weighty. There’s a threat of drowning. Consequently, you will be relieved to discover that things are going to be more manageable throughout May, although you will still have some tricky negotiations to navigate before you’re completely out of the dark. However, the basic message is that it’s getting better, and for those around you, that is also likely to be seen as a good sign since you have been a little difficult to live with of late. It’s going to be a relief for everyone!

Card of the Month — The Pope

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 The last couple of weeks have seen many of you really turn your lives around from the somewhat troubled states they were in. Suddenly the world looks like a much more positive place and as a consequence you are going to see a fleet of opportunities open up before you. A recent improvement at work will have a knock-on effect from a financial perspective. This is good thing. Your finances have taken a hit since the turn of the year and you may be tempted to splash out. Just make sure your bank balance is in a healthy state before you do or it could be a short-lived celebration that is not going to benefit anyone!

Card of the Month — The Four of Wands

Sagittarius N ­ ovember 22 – December 21 Sometimes you just can’t help yourself. Even though you know you shouldn’t say something, you let it slip out and then wonder what all the commotion is about afterwards. This month is going to perfectly illustrate the point after a statement made in anger sees you isolating someone you care for and you may not even realise what you have done until it is pointed out later. If you don’t move to rectify matters quickly you may find that it’s beyond a solution, so don’t hang about with the apologies. On a different note, you should beware of family disputes that arise from idle words or perhaps even a jealous heart — which could dampen certain celebrations.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Wands www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisersindex Capricorn D ­ ecember 22 – ­January 21 If only a few months ago someone had told you that you would be in with a shot of actually achieving what you want to do with your life career-wise, you would probably have greeted their suggestions with derision. However, a lot can happen in a short space of time and in your case it definitely has. While pressures may have hampered your progress where family and finances are concerned, work is a completely different matter and you will be celebrating some high-profile achievements before the month is out.

Card of the Month — The Magician

aquarius January 21 – February 20 It has to be said that of all the signs of the Zodiac, your sign is traditionally one of the hardest working. However, even by your standards you’ve been doing quite a lot more than should be expected of anyone and so it will come as a very pleasant surprise when a loving partner decides to treat you to a trip away. Even though it might mean letting some deadlines slip, be sure to take them up on the offer. Even though you might not realise it, you have been burning the candle at both ends for so long that you are not that far off wearing yourself out! Be a devil and enjoy yourself!

Card of the Month — The Knight of Pentacles

pisces February 21 – March 20 You’ll probably hear certain things this month that will leave you pondering over your future in the workplace. If you have any doubts over your current position then now might be the time to do something about them. After all, the reality is that you are perhaps a little too comfortable in your present role and maybe the best thing you could have right now is a new challenge. As far as matters at home are concerned, you will be forced to deal with a great deal of friction over the coming weeks due to the pressures of ongoing redevelopment or building work. The strain could push you and a partner to breaking point so tread carefully and mind your tongue if you want to keep the peace.

Card of the Month — The Page of Wands

Fashion & Footwear

Aeropostale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Beverly Hills Polo Club . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Celio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Emporio Armani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Jashanmals (Sportsac) . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Naturalizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Skechers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 The Children’s Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Timberland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Financial Institutions

Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . 79 Bahrain National Holding . . . . . . . . . . 23 BMI Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Home & Furnishing

Phoenicia Décor (Natuzzi) . . . . . . . . . 13 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Hotels & Luxury Apartments

Al Areen Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain . . . . . . . . 78 Golden Tulip Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel . . . . . . 63 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Ramee Baisan Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa . . . . . . 85,119 Ramee Monroe Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 155 Royal Phoenicia Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 The Domain Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . 6

Jewellery & Watches

Asia Jewellers (Frederique Constant) 4 Asia Jewellers (Rayond Weil) . . . . . . 33 Kooheji Jewellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Sharif Group (GF Ferre) . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . 59

aries ­March 21 – April 20 The next few weeks are likely to be a bit of a blur for you, although this is a good thing for your sign because you thrive on constant activity and the buzz surrounding new projects and ideas. Over the course of the last few months you have been building your business interests up steadily and, around the start of May, things are set to expand in a major way. The main issue for you is going to be finding the time to fit everything in and you may well need to turn to someone else for help to ensure all necessary deadlines are met. Travel to somewhere exotic is also on the cards but make sure all your documents are in place before you book anything!

Card of the Month — The High Priestess

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Channing Tatum

Jessica Alba

David BeckhamJ

FAMOUS taurus THIS MONTH

Motoring

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Jeep) . . . . . . 37 Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) 29 Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . 45 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Euro Motors (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Mohd Jalal (Suzuki) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Motor City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan) . . . 15

Others

AJM Kooheji Group (LG) . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Alliance Française . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Amwaj Marina Challenge . . . . . . . . . . 84 Bahrain Institute of Banking & Finance . . . 105 Bahrain Science Centre . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Chuckle Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Dessange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 e-Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Home Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Junaid Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Lycee Francais de Bahrein . . . . . . . 108 Multinational School of Bahrain . . . 103 National Photo Services . . . . . . . . . . 133 Pegasus Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 RCSI-MUB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Saar Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 SNSE 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Strathclyde University . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Tom Peters Seminar . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 University of College . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Urban Holistic Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 What The Ladybird Heard Show . . . 125 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Yusif bin Yisif Fakhro (Aran) . . . . . . . . 49

Restaurants & Cafés

Atayeb Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 Big Smoke Burger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Block 338 Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Dine O In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . . . . 121 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 Shoo Fee Ma Fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 T. G. I. Friday’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Telecommunications

Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

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

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

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

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

May 2014 183

lastword

The Mystery of Mysteries The past few weeks have been unjust for the people on Flight MH370 and their near and dear, but the vanishing act has also proven our love of a good mystery.

184 May 2014

Agatha Christie would have been extremely proud of the mysterious whereabouts of Flight MH370. On March 8, it simply vanished off radar and has eluded all and sundry ever since, despite sightings of debris fields.

What has puzzled me most is the popularity behind the mystery and the television hours of debate and conjecture it has produced by people who know little more than we do.

When we awoke to news that a flight had disappeared, I’m sure most of us expected the worst and few of us expected the plane to either appear at an airport or to turn up somewhere else. By the second day, our attention had already begun to wane, definite in our minds that the flight had met with disastrous endings. Five days into its vanishing, few of us tuned in to the ongoing saga of the flight. It had crashed and so be it.

Then came the sudden turn: the questions of the pilot’s mentality, and the possibilities of hostages and an alien abduction. From lacking interest on the subject to sitting by the screen 24/7 as the mystery deepened, we moved into the third week.

Humans love a mystery. It’s like gifts under a Christmas tree that we are unable to open. It nearly kills us to know what is inside. And so it is with Flight MH370. In the end, we sat and listened to every halfknowledgeable airline enthusiast hypothesising about every ill-conceived potential outcome.

In the words of Francis Bacon, “The job of the artist is always to deepen the mystery.” That’s exactly what the newsreaders of today are — true artists who rope

us in and make us listen to the speculative nature of what might be and not what actually is!

For this reason, I now understand Rupert Murdoch’s insatiable desire to run the media. It’s not about the business; it’s about keeping people listening and watching by teasing them with the truth and giving them something to wonder about [DASH] a touch of mystery to the everyday. By making us wonder if the truth is out there, he keeps us turning the pages of the journals and tabloids that line his pocket.

In the words of Neil Armstrong, “Mystery creates wonder and wonder is the basis of man’s desire to understand.”

Sometimes in spite of the facts, we still add the element of wonder and mystery ourselves and cause certain things to be bigger and more romanticised than they ever truly are or were.

The mysteries surrounding Flight MH370 are multiple: Why did it turn? Why did it not head directly to China? Why did it fly for hours in the wrong direction? Who was flying it? For many of these we may never know the answers even after the plane is eventually located, if indeed it ever is.

Ultimately, what Flight MH370 may uncover is the fact that no matter how clever and advanced we believe we are getting, there will always be a loophole that causes us to question everything.

In the words of Oscar Wilde, “The truth is rarely pure and never simple.”

After getting absorbed in the mystery surrounding Flight MH370, I get the feeling that so much in life is never going to be pure and simple ever again. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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