Bahrain This Month - May 2015

COSMETICS | CAFÉS | KIDS IN THE KINGDOM | SHOPPING MALLS

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

TARA MCDONALD May 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 5

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 213

Contents May 2015 39

COVER STORY Get Ready to Party

Sensational singer-songwriter Tara McDonald is set to rock the Kingdom this month as she performs a special concert at JJ’s Irish Restaurant.

HAPPENINGS

23

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

23

Local Artists In Spotlight:

Bahraini artists Abdel Elah Al Arab and Jamal Abdul Rahim showcase their work.

24

Operatic Melodies:

Anna Karadimitrova takes to the stage.

26

Creating Opportunities:

Bahrain Exhibition for Training and Education pre Employment 2015.

28

Gamers Unite:

Animation and Video Games Convention.

30

41

30

Mega Property Show:

The Gulf Property Show comes to town.

32

Laugh Out Loud:

Chuckle Club returns.

34

Reggae Beats:

Coral Bay hosts a reggae festival on the beach.

36

Future of Retail:

The third Bahrain Retail Congress conference takes place.

24

Calendars:

Events during May

39

24

AFTER DARK

37

38

48 Bystander This month our Bystander pages recorded the anniversary of Pakistan’s National Day. We attended the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix and the 5th annual Grand Italian Charity Ball. We celebrated Shirley and Dick Potter’s birthdays and went to the launch event for Porsche Cayenne GTS. We caught the action from Bob Sinclar’s concert and attended the opening of Hunkemoller.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Absolute Madness:

Gear up for a series of sensational night-outs this month; from amazing tribute acts to original artists, there’s plenty to look forward to.

40

40

Happy Birthday JJ’s:

Join in the celebrations as this friendly neighbourhood joint turns 16.

INTERVIEWS A Shining Example

Carrying on the legacy of a family name and a successful business is Mohammed Jaffar, chairman of Asia Jewellers. BTM speaks to him about his road to success.

41

Hail to The Chief

Dr Tariq Hameed has added a new string to his bow as chief medical officer at Awali Hospital.

44

Ever Expanding

BTM speaks to Faisal Jawad about what’s in store for the Jawad Business Group.

45

JLR Backseat Chat

Bridget Lindsay joins George Middleton for a tête-à-tête in a Range Rover Sport for a drive through Amwaj Islands.

May 2015 5

& E V LO

E N I H S SUN ION C

OLLECT

0180 142633 CLSP

NEW

!

Issue 213

Contents May 2015 47-62

FEATURES

An Ambassador in Bahrain: Farewell to the Kumars

Cosmetics: 63-73

83

BTM has compiled an essential list of the Kingdom’s leading cosmetic products and services.

Kids in the Kingdom: 75-78

With summer fast approaching, parents across the Kingdom are on the lookout for things to keep the little ones amused. From special deals on food to dressing up, sports and premium play spaces, BTM lets you know what’s on offer.

Shopping Malls: 79-82

BTM has compiled a teaser of what’s going on in shopping malls on the island.

Café Community: 115-119

63

75

Bahrain’s eateries boast a style and sophistication comparable with the best facilities available anywhere in the world.

LIFESTYLE 83

Motoring:

Unleashing a Monster:

The F150 delivers more than just power and capability; it delivers an unforgettable driving experience.

84

Great Deals on Certified Pre-Owned Cars:

Mercedes-Benz is offering special deals on a number of pre-owned vehicles.

91

More power with distinctive design:

The Kingdom’s petrolheads are in for a treat this month with the arrival of the new BMW X5M and BMW X6M models.

92

A Racy Number For Bahrain:

A one-of-a-kind Bahrain edition of the new Ferrari FF was unveiled at the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra.

79

106

Downtime:

93 Gadgets: The coolest new gizmos 94 Music: The Album About Nothing 95 Computer Games: Child of Light 96 Websites: www. booyafitness.com 97 Apps: Ingenious Applications 98 Movies: Focus

101

Dining:

Tastefully Refreshing:

Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge is the newest addition to Adliya’s culinary boutique block.

93

106

98

Dining Happenings

Showcase:

What’s New: Must-have products 122 Marketplace: Latest products and services 121

Regulars:

115 www.bahrainthismonth.com

121

141 WIN WIN 142 Tarotscope 143 AD Index 144 Last Word

May 2015 7

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

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month May 2015

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

I remember well the summer of 1973….a truly blistering one. Ray Dorset who worked for my brother-in-law at Timex offices in Feltham, submitted his acetate disk demo recording to a contact at Pye Records.

“In the summer time, when the weather is high, you can stretch right up and touch the sky.…” and that song became the acknowledged anthem for happiness and the arrival of summer. Of course, the arrival of summer is exactly what’s happening to Bahrain right now as the temperature changes from mild and marvelous to hot and heavy over the coming weeks–fortunately, the island’s entertainment scene is turning up the heat to match it In this issue, we give a detailed preview of everything you need to know about events taking place in and around town. Also in this edition, we bid a fond farewell to the kingdom’s longest serving ambassador, His Excellency Dr Mohan Kumar, and his wife Mala. We’ve prepared a special section highlighting their time in the Kingdom and the impact they’ve had along the way.

We have exclusive interviews with Awali Hospital’s chief medical officer Dr Tariq Hameed, chairman of Asia Jewellers, Mohammed Jaffar, and a real prince among men, Italian Maurizio Agosti Montenaro Durazzo.

Gracing the cover this month, is superstar musician Tara McDonald, who is set to deliver a spectacular performance much to the delight of her multitude of fans across the island.

Besides our usual dining section, packed with the best places to grab a bite, we have a special dining feature that rounds up Bahrain’s best cafes to help you decide where to go for light bites and refreshing beverages.

We have a cosmetic procedures report to shed some light on the best products and services Bahrain has on offer to help you look and feel your best. There are also reports on kids in the Kingdom and shopping malls.

Check out snippets from our exclusive Backseat Chat interview with Bridget Lindsay, wife of British Ambassador, Iain. She spills the beans on moving on to a new diplomatic assignment and leaving the Kingdom behind.

This month’s motoring section highlights the newest vehicles to hit the Kingdom’s highways and we have a test drive of the new Ford F150.

However you spend your month, make sure you appreciate the great way of life the Kingdom has to offer.

Events Editor Hanna Moore Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

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

Published monthly by

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

COVER Cover Picture:

Tara McDonald

•

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

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

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INTERNATIONAL SENSATION

TARA MCDONALD May 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 5

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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

Nightlife

May 2015 9

bystander

The 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix The 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix’s night race was held for a second year at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. The race was attended by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, F1 Supremo Bernie Ecclestone, celebrities, BIC officials, media and visitors from all over the world.

Lewis Hamilton races to victory followed by Kimi Raikkonen

His Majesty King Hamad

Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, CEO, BIC

HRH The Crown Prince

Bernie Ecclestone & Lewis

Ahmed, Adnan, Samar, Khalid & Dipti at City Centre Bahrain corporate lounge

10 May 2015

2nd place Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari, winner Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes AMG F1, Aldo Costa, Mercedes AMG F1 & 3rd place Nico Rosberg Mercedes AMG F1

Charlie, Nico & Mai

Abdulla, Adnan, Duaij & Khalid at City Centre Bahrain corporate lounge

Gulf Air Girls

Headlining act, Pit Bull

Waleed Al Shamy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Ralf, Graeme, Christian, Imran & Thomas

Entertainment in the paddocks

Practice session in progress

Costume artists parade

Menal, Sharon, Aya, Heba, Nada & Latifa

Sam & Marco

Youngsters enjoying the F1 fun

Sreehari, Cyndi, Edcil, Bakhita & Peto

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mohammed & Fahad

Khalifa, Adel, Khamis, Mohammed & Majed

Sarah & Mo

Kia, Sara & Zahra

Farah & Reema

Ciana & Elizabeth

Daniel, Richmond, Sarah & Justin

Wilson, Robert, JJ & Marc

May 2015 11

bystander

Colonel Price & Mrs Price

Ruksana, Dr Rifat & Nahid

Konstantinos & HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador

Elena, Ratna & Junghee

Bangladesh National Day HE Major General K.M. Momimur Rahman, Bangladeshi Ambassador, hosted a reception to mark the 44th anniversary of the country’s Independence Day. The reception was held at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. HE Major General K.M. Momimur Rahman, third from left, cuts the cake with dignitaries

HE Essam Saleh Awad, Egyptian Ambassador

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Yamamoto & Yukiko

HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador & HE Mohammed Ali Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador

Wararot, Omruthai & Mandy

Alison & Gerry

Deirdre, Amina & Maxi

Sami & Dana

Igor, Janan & Elena

12 May 2015

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Asst UnderSecretary, Foreign Affairs & HE Hatun Demirer, Turkish Ambassador

Tariq & Lima

HE Vagif Garaev, Russian Ambassador & Rahim

Widad & Fatima

Matthew & David

Janet

Jack

Sanjida

MP Abbas Al Madhi & Melfe Al Suwaidi

Tik, Eneiza & Deanna

Mohammed

HE Maj Gen KM Momimur Rahman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Sajid, Maqsood, Muhammad Ahad, Zahid Sheikh & HE Muhammad Saeed Khan

Pakistan National Day HE Muhammad Saeed Khan, Pakistani Ambassador, hosted a reception to mark the National Day of Pakistan at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. The event was attended by HE Abdulla Abdul Latif Abdulla, Under-Secretary, Foreign Affairs, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran Assistant Under-Secretary, Foreign Affairs, parliamentarians, diplomats and prominent businessmen.

Dignitaries cut the cake along with HE Muhammad Saeed Khan, third from left

Muhammad Arsalan, Sajid, Muammad Afzal & Maqsood

Suhair, Maqsood, Muhammad Ahad, Ahad Al Mashan, third secretary, Kuwait Embassy, HE Muhammad Saeed Khan, Amana Roomi & Betsy

Muhammad Khan & Altaf

Saad & Maqsood

Imran & Shafeeka

Al Aali Art Fest

Al Aali Shopping Complex hosted the Art Fest 2015, a platform showcasing various artists in Bahrain.

Al Aali management with the artists

Vijetha & Vilas Abdullatif Kanoo & Tariq Kanoo

Lillian, Dr Hala, Irina, Carie & Laiba

14 May 2015

Ashfaq, Shadi, Jorg & Waleed

Noor & Farida

Rhizlane & Tony Jashanmal

Ahmed

Shabbir & Mukarram

Hanna & Zaid

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Handcrafting now,

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Seef Mall

bystander

Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj, Jawad Al Hawaj & HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador

Perfume Collection Launch Al Hawaj Group launched the Mercedes-Benz VIP Club perfume collection at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay under the patronage of HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador.

Gernot, HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador & Graeme

Models with the new collection

Mohammed & Eman

Helen & Anne

Amna & Imran

Christian & Shyam

Ahdeya, Khalid & HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan bin Abdul Samad, Malaysian Ambassador

Aiden, Kieran & Camille

Nissan Juke Launch Y K Almoayyed and Sons launched the Nissan Juke at City Centre Bahrain. The event was attended by management, members of the press and guests.

Rohit, Alok, Fareed Almoayyed, vice-chairman, Y K Almoayyed and Sons, Paul Baker, general manager, Nissan Bahrain, Peter, Ranjit & Hussain Aqsa & Hena

Alison & Peter

16 May 2015

Namit

Devdas

Mirna

Fareed Almoayyed

Dima & Issam

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Nady

Enrico

Carlo

Noora

Sallyann & Kainat

Gulf Hotel Enters Guinness Book The Gulf Hotel Bahrain set a Guinness World Record with the world’s largest tiramisu weighing 1,969kgs.

Management and staff with their record-breaking tiramisu

City Centre Launch City Centre Bahrain unveiled a month-long programme of motor racing-themed activities, promotions, prizes and the premiere screening of Furious 7.

City Centre Bahrain management with one of the prizes, a Lamborghini Huracan

Duaij Khalifa

18 May 2015

Ahmed & Khalid

Rawia & Dipti

Adnan & Katherine

Rafaela & Juliana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Family Day

The Swiss-Belhotel Seef organised a Family Day at the Isa Town Rehabilitation Centre.

Faisal, Safeya, Yousra, Herve, Yazan, Christelle & Ali

Kerstin

Rabab & Bayan

Yousif & Mohammed

Bishin & Noura

Fatema & Aysha

Kawthar & Jameela

Houra & Manar

Alawi & Mahmood

Duaa & May

Hanadi, Ahlam & Zainab

Yazan

Ahmed & Atanu

G4S Employee Awards G4S held its annual employee award ceremony at the Elite Crystal Hotel.

G4S Bahrain Team

Johar & Waseem

20 May 2015

Anna & Carolyn

Nasir & Claire

Heena & Sameena

Waseem & Atanu

www.bahrainthismonth.com

QUALITY

First Floor MTGRUP MT group

bystander

IWC Launch

Aziz, Mohammed & Ahmed

Babak, Maryam & Rushdi

Joanne & Laura

Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Schaffhausen celebrated the anniversary of its first boutique in Moda Mall, together with its partner, Asia Jewellers. Special guests at the event included IWC brand ambassador and Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One team driver Nico Rosberg and the head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, Toto Wolff.

Nico Rosberg & Toto Wolff displaying the IWC watches

Marise, Khalid, Sergio & Anne

Luma, Wafa, Elyana, Mayan & Hussain

Tawfiq, Mehdi & Evangelos

Chris, Katia & Mikis

Nawal & Buthaina

Mariana

Apple, Stephen & Josephine

Amal & Mona

Maysa & Eman

Heba

Amina & Hala

Layla & Maryam

Suzanne

Marjan & Najat

Najwa & Najma

Shahabat

Mothers’ Day Special Ashrafs and Women’s Professional Network hosted a live cooking show at the Ashrafs showroom in Hoora to commemorate Mothers’ Day. Narise Qamber, owner of Saffron by Jena Café cooked alongside her mother, Dalal Al Sherooqi.

Marjan Modara, Dalal Al Sherooqi, Amal Almoayyed & Narise Qamber

Maysam, Dalal & Mariam

22 May 2015

Jaya & Vaishali

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MAY

2015.

HAPPENINGS

LOCAL ARTISTS IN SPOTLIGHT When? Ongoing - May 27 Event? Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery, Adliya Two leading Bahraini artists, calligrapher Abdel Elah Al Arab and artist and sculptor Jamal Abdul Rahim, are showcasing their latest works at a joint exhibition - Alphabets and Sculptures, at Albareh Art Gallery.

Abdel Elah Al Arab was born in Manama in 1954. He studied in Egypt and received a diploma in Calligraphy in 1978 and a specialised diploma in line, gilding and decoration in 1980 and has trained under the tutelage of the distinguished Egyptian calligrapher Sayed Ibrahim. Known for his precision, he gives form to Arabic calligraphy in an expressive, harmonious and skilful manner.

He employs Islamic calligraphy, focusing on the Islamic Kufi text and his artwork ranges from classic inscriptions in black and white to fine art pieces rendered against colourful backgrounds swirling in tones of green, red, yellow, turquoise, black and gold. He is the founder of the Arabic Calligraphy School in Bahrain, a co-founder of the Bahrain Arts Society and he was entrusted with writing the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Jamal Abdul Rahim was born in Muharraq in 1965 where he continues to live and work today. Not following any particular school or technique, Jamal applies his modern touch in a seemingly random fashion, moulding all the things surrounding him in an artistic form, be it paintings, etchings, prints or sculptures. He has exhibited extensively in the region and internationally and has received numerous awards. His works are held in private and public collections including that of the British Museum and the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore.

Gallery opening hours are from Saturday to Thursday from 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm.

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

ITALIAN COSTUMES ON DISPLAY When? Ongoing-July 21 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum A unique exhibition showcasing period costumes from Italy is being held at the Bahrain National Museum. The exhibition titled ‘The Sicily of the Leopard in Piraino’s Collection’ coincided with the ‘Grand Italian Ball of the Leopard’ and features 10 exquisite handmade garments, originally owned by the Sicilian aristocracy during the time of ‘Gattopardo’ (The Leopard) in 1860. The current selection illustrates the craftsmanship of the artisans of that time and the sophistication of the Sicilian society.

Driven by his passion for art, Professor Piraino has spent his life compiling garments and accessories. The prestigious www.bahrainthismonth.com

Piraino collection consists of a wide variety of costumes, headdresses and accessories from Sicily and Europe that date from the 18th century to the first half of the 20th century. It also includes some rare examples from the reputable fashion houses Christian Dior and Worth.

From the 1980s to date, the Piraino collection has been showcased on numerous occasions in Palermo, Sicily, and in museums around the world.

However, it is the first time that this exclusive collection of 10 pieces and accessories has been shown in the Middle East.

The exhibition opens daily from 8am to 8pm.

Visit www.moc.gov.bh.

May 2015 23

happenings

OPERATIC MELODIES When? May 1 Event? Opera Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Stephanie Opera fans are in for a treat as La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art presents another enchanting evening of live music. The night will feature Soprano Anna Karadimitrova, accompanied by pianist Stephanie Cheng and Preslav Petkov on the clarinet.

Anna Karadimitrova was trained at the European Opera Centre in Manchester, UK and has been a featured soloist in countless oratorios and symphonic productions.

Preslav Petkov graduated from the National Music Academy in Sofia, Bulgaria, with a BA and MA on clarinet. He joined the Rousse Philharmonic Orchestra in 1998 and the National Philharmonic Orchestra, Sofia, in 2001 as clarinet, bass clarinet and saxophone player Stephanie Cheng is a Taiwanese-American pianist who

SWIM AND RUN CHALLENGE When? May 1 Event? Charity Fundraiser Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa

When? Ongoing - May 1 Event? Urban Culture Week Venue? Malja, Amwaj Islands Urban Culture Week finishes with the Red Bull BC One Bahrain Cypher, top 16 local B-Boys will battle it out.

E Visit www.maljabahrain.com.

Anna and Preslav

has performed extensively in the US, France, Italy, Japan and Taiwan to great critical acclaim. Her solo and collaborative engagements have taken her to many of the world’s major music centres, including Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in New York and Opera City Hall of Tokyo.

Tickets to the event are priced at BD20 for the concert and BD30 for concert and dinner.

Call 17 230-123 or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

CRICKET FOR CHARITY When? May 1 Event? Cricket Tournament Venue? The Bahrain Rugby Football Club Prepare yourself for an enjoyable day of cricket and help donate towards a great cause at the same time.

The Charity Cricket World Cup, organised by the Rotary Club of Adliya (RCA), will see eight teams battle head to head in super sixes cricket for a chance to raise funds and win the club’s cricket trophy. This year, all proceeds will go to the RCA Child Traffic Safety Programme. This is a fantastic day out for the entire family, offering barbeque and activities such as a bouncy castle for the children.

The tournament starts at 9am and runs through to the final at 3pm. Cricket entry is free for families.

Visit the Rotary Club of Adliya Facebook page.

Get fit for a good cause as The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa organises a first-of-its-kind charity fund raiser. Challenge your sports addiction with a swim and run relay, which is part of the hotel’s social and environmental responsibility programme, Community Footprints. Participants can take part in various categories: Men’s Team, Ladies Team and Junior Team. Advanced registration is required. The event will be held from 2pm to 5pm, at the beach and is priced at B10++ for Royal Sporting Club members and BD15++ for non-members, including light snacks and refreshments.

Call 17 586-612.

24 May 2015

When? Ongoing – May 4 Event? The 41st Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Theatre The exhibition celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of local Bahraini artists.

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

When? Ongoing - May 7 Event? Exhibition - Vantage Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space The exhibit is a reflection of eight female artists’ perspectives on their connections with Islam.

E Visit www.alriwaqartspace.com.

When? Ongoing - May 27 Event? Exhibition - Alphabets and Sculptures Venue? Albareh Art Gallery, Adliya A joint exhibition by two leading Bahraini artists calligrapher Abdel Elah Al Arab and artist and sculptor Jamal Abdul Rahim.

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

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

by Syrian-American photographer Sueraya Shaheen.

E Visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net.

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

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

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

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES When? May 5-6 Event? Exhibition Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Medpoint Design and Events Management is organising an event for fresh graduates, the Bahrain Exhibition for Training and Education pre Employment 2015. The event will be held under the patronage of HE Sheikh Khalid Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, The Deputy Prime Minister. The exhibition aims to create opportunities for participating private and public sector companies, organisations, universities (including national and international delegates) and educational training institutions to recruit secondary school students and fresh graduates and also gain knowledge on the process of training and recruitment of the selected candidates. It will provide

When? May 1 Event? Opera Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Enjoy an enchanting evening of operatic music with three international artists.

E Call 17 230-123 or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

participating organisations a platform to represent their services to a broader audience and raise the organisation’s image, profile awareness and market exposure for future intakes. It will also present marketing opportunities to the participants through social media

marketing, bulletins and post event publicity as well as offering networking opportunities to educators, students and businesses.

The timings are 8.30am to 1pm and 4pm to 6pm.

Call 77 333-338 or visit www.medpoint-design.com.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT GALORE

26 May 2015

When? May 1 Event? Charity Cricket World Cup Venue? The Bahrain Rugby Football Club Watch a cricket tournament and help donate towards a great cause at the same time.

E Visit the Rotary Club of Adliya Facebook page.

When? May 1 Event? CRC Round 8 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit The Circuit Racing Club of Bahrain (CRC) regularly hosts national-level events, featuring the BIC 2,000cc Challenge and the National Sprints.

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

When? May 7/ May 29 Event? Spring Show/ Live Music Venue? The British Club The British Club is all set to host its Annual Spring Show this month with entertainment from one of the UK’s top Neil Diamond tribute singers, Dominic Kaye. He has spent more than 18 months researching and practicing his act so he can deliver a phenomenal Neil Diamond tribute to his audience. His lively stage presence and pure flair for performing makes this show simply amazing. He’s not only a great Neil Diamond tribute singer, he even sounds like him when he talks on stage. He’ll have everyone singing and dancing along to hits such as Sweet Caroline, Song Sung Blue, Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever in Blue Jeans and many more. His second set will feature classic party songs to keep everyone on the dance floor. The night’s entertainment will also include incredible close-up magician Nabeel, plus a disco.

When? May 1 Event? Charity Fundraiser - Swim and Run Challenge Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Get fit for a good cause with a first-of-its-kind charity fund raiser.

E Call 17 586-612.

When? May 1-2 Event? Bahrain Junior Open Venue? Royal Golf Club Open to all juniors under 21 years of age, with tee times from 11.20am.

E Call 17 750-777.

When? May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Event? Ball of Fame Billiard Tournament Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant Pot the ball to win cash prizes and gifts, every Saturday.

Registration time is from 1pm to 2pm, BD6 per person in JJ’s pool room.

E Call 39 329-083.

Tickets are on sale from reception and priced at BD20 for members and BD18 for guests, including a buffet dinner. Doors open at 7.30pm.

The entertainment continues at the club on May 29, with The Kronenbourg Showcase featuring

local live music from Ferang, one of Bahrain’s newest alternative rock bands, who will be performing at the poolside from 8pm. Entrance for members is free and guests pay BD2.

Call 17 728-245 or visit www. britishclubbahrain.com.

When? May 4 Event? Poetry Venue? Ibrahim Al Arrayed Enjoy a poetry evening with Adel Khuzam, from 8pm to 10pm.

E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

Tel: 17845000

happenings

GAMERS UNITE When? May 5-6 Event? Bahrain Exhibition for Training and Education pre Employment 2015 Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain A two-day event catering to fresh graduates as well as private and public sector organisations.

E Call 77 333-338 or visit www.medpoint-design.com.

When? May 7, 14, 21, 28 Event? Movie Night Venue? Royal Golf Club Watch old family classics and all the latest releases, every Thursday at 6pm, at the club’s fantastic garden for free.

E Call 17 750-777.

When? May 8 Event? Animation and Video Games Convention Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Bahrain’s premier animation and video games convention, Animania 2015, returns for a fifth time with bigger and better attractions. The convention will see anime and gaming fans from Bahrain and the GCC come together under one roof, featuring a regionally renowned video games section and a big competition, giving gamers an opportunity to test and prove their skills. The other main attraction includes a cos-play competition for individuals and groups, where attendees dress up as their favourite

character from anime shows or video games. Acts will be judged by a panel based on creativity, costume design and character mimicking abilities. To celebrate its fifth year running, the event will also feature a concert by Two Akcent from Romania. They are known for their songs My Passions, with 18 million views on YouTube, and That’s My Name with 33 million views on YouTube. There will also be an art gallery where Bahraini artists involved in animation and video game drawings can showcase their

work. The gallery will feature local comic book artists and animators.

The convention will also host a movie screening hall, where the best anime movies and television shows will be screened non-stop throughout the event. Other attractions include a marketplace for vendors to sell their goods. This is the only event in Bahrain that gives away the biggest prize of USD7,000 to its winners.

Visit Facebook page AnimainiaBahrain.

EVERYTHING INTERIORS When? May 12-14 Event? Interiors Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre An interior expo will be held this month under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Gulf Interiors 2015 has been selected by the Furniture Federation of Italy, Federlegnoarredo, to be the B2B partner for the trade delegation visit to Bahrain. Organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions, the show will provides a unique platform for local and international retailers, interior designers, architects and contractors to showcase their latest luxury, designer products, services and innovations. This acclaimed annual expo is dedicated to connecting GCC’s top architects, designers, real estate developers, manufacturers, agents, 28 May 2015

When? May 7/ May 29 Event? Spring Show/ Live Music Venue? The British Club Annual Spring Show with Neil Diamond tribute singer, Dominic Kaye and an evening with Bahrain’s newest alternative rock band, Ferang.

E Call 17 728-245 or visit www.britishclubbahrain.com.

When? May 8 Event? Animania 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Bahrain’s premier animation and video games convention returns for a fifth time with bigger and better attractions.

E Visit Facebook page AnimainiaBahrain.

When? May 8, 15, 29 Event? OpenTrack Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Test how fast your cars or motorbikes can go at the Circuit’s Open Track events.

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

When? May 11 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Coral Bay Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 207-624.

distributors, dealers and investors. The five Italian companies visiting are Gibus, HolzAlbertani, Design Porte, Valdichenti and Cantiero.

Call 17 299-123 or visit www.gulfinteriorsexhibition.com.

When? May 11 Event? Lecture Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research A lecture about Sudanese novels by Hammour Ziada, from 8pm to 10pm.

E Visit www. shaikhebrahimcenter.org. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

MEGA PROPERTY SHOW When? May 11 Event? Ebrahim K Kanoo Drag and Drift Nights Venue? Bahrain International Circuit Try out the BIC’s new innovative experience ‘Ebrahim K Kanoo Drag & Drift’, with each evening featuring on-the-track action from 6pm until 10pm.

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

When? May 12-14 Event? Exhibition - Gulf Interiors 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre A unique platform for local and international retailers, interior designers, architects and contractors.

E Call 17 299-123 or visit www. gulfinteriorsexhibition.com.

When? May 12-14 Event? Property Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre A boutique showcase of the Northern Gulf’s real estate and property development sectors, the Gulf Property Show 2015 will be held this month under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. This exhibition will showcase and promote products and services from local and international real estate developers, investors, service providers and consultants. The show, sponsored by Diyar Muharraq and Inovest, spreads over 300sq/m and will present not only the Kingdom’s current and future real

estate developments but will also feature exhibitors highlighting developments in Turkey, the UAE, UK and Bosnia.

The expo has recently launched its own property search engine on its website, providing visitors a chance to view listed properties from exhibitors which are available for sale prior to the exhibition and to contact the sales agents accordingly.

Call 17 299-123 or visit www.gulfpropertyshow.net.

CONSTRUCTION EXPO OPENS When? May 12-14 Event? Construction Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Bahrain’s top annual construction expo, due to be held this month, is dedicated to the region’s construction and building materials sector. Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, GulfBID 2015 is a specialised event for the Northern Gulf’s construction industry, showcasing the latest products, cutting-edge technologies and services from reputable local, regional and international companies. The expo will provide a platform for the influential architectural, engineering and 30 May 2015

When? May 12-14 Event? GulfBID 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Bahrain’s top annual construction expo, dedicated to the region’s construction and building materials sector.

E Call 17 299-123 or visit www. gulfbidexpo.com.

When? May 12-14 Event? Gulf Property Show 2015 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre A boutique showcase of the Northern Gulf’s real estate and property development sectors.

E Call 17 299-123 or visit www. gulfpropertyshow.net.

When? May 13 Event? Poetry Workshop Venue? Coral Bay Hone your poetry writing skills with a workshop at Coral Bay, 7.30 pm.

E Call 39 207-624.

design communities of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar to share knowledge and expertise as well as bringing together leading suppliers face-toface with clients and buyers.

It is strategically sponsored by Haji Hassan Group and Kuwaiti Manager Contracting with participating companies including

Al Koblan Thermopipe, Al Rezayat Protective Coating, Gulf Scaffolding Co, Al Dweik Factory, Plastbau Arabia Co, Concrete Technology, Riyadh Crane Technology, Shade Technology, Dubai based Bonar Natpet and many more.

Call 17 299-123 or visit www.gulfbidexpo.com.

When? May 14 Event? Reggae Festival Venue? Coral Bay Welcome the summer with a starstudded reggae festival on the beach featuring The Wailers.

E Call 17 312-700 or 33 745-547.

When? May 15 Event? Trib Fest Venue? The Bahrain Rugby Football Club Bahrain’s first open air familyfriendly music festival featuring 21 tribute acts from the UK. E Call 17 695-809.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ENJOY!! BAHRAIN’S BIGGEST WATERPARK

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happenings

LAUGH OUT LOUD Gareth Richards

Tiff Stevenson

Another month and another instalment of hilarity comes your way as Chuckle Club returns to the island with its May tour.

When? May 13-15 Event? Stand-up Comedy Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club, The British Club, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

After all the hustle and bustle of the Formula One, get ready for a fun and relaxed evening as Chuckle Club brings three international comedians for your laughing pleasure.

After performing in Dubai and Doha, the comic trio - Tiff Stevenson, Gareth Richards and Billy Wayne Davis will take to the stage at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club on May 13, The British Club on May 14 and InterContinental Regency Bahrain on May 15.

Known for her straight-talking material, Tiff Stevenson is a standup comedian, actor and writer. She 32 May 2015

was a finalist on ITV1’s Show Me The Funny and has been seen on Mock the Week, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, The Office and The Apprentice: You’re Fired (BBC 2).

You may have also heard her on the Front Row (BBC Radio 4) and 7 Day Saturday or 7 Day Sunday with Al Murray (BBC Radio 5 Live). She has been described as ‘Hilarious’

by Metro, ‘Witty and inventive…a stroke of genius’ by The Telegraph and ‘Original observations, fantastically sharp lines, spot on’

by Jo Brand.

Gareth Richards’ delectable comedy delights, with or without instrumentation, and his off-beat

and unique style makes him one to watch. He was a Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Newcomer nominee 2010, appearing on Russell Howard’s Good News, Live at the Electric (BBC3) and performed live on Radio 1. He also co-hosted the Sony award-winning Frank Skinner’s Absolute Radio Show for two years and supported Frank on his 2014 tour. He was described by The Guardian as ‘A delightful hour of comedy’.

Having started in his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee (USA), Billy Wayne Davis has performed in virtually every corner of the United States. He has appeared on TruTV and written for NFL on FOX.

He has performed at the Bridgetown Comedy Festival, the Laughing Skull Comedy Festival, Bumbershoot and SF Sketchfest.

His Rooftop Records release, Billy Wayne Davis, was featured on Sirius XM and named one of Paste Magazine’s top 10 comedy albums of 2012. He was also featured on NBC’s Last Comic Standing in 2014.

The shows start at 8.30pm at all venues.

Tickets cost BD15 and can be purchased online at amiando.com/ chuckleclubmay2015. Follow Chuckle Club’s social media for special discounts.

Call 36 666-350 for more information.

Billy Wayne Davis

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Enjoy your stay

happenings

REGGAE BEATS When? May 15-23 Event? Tennis Tournament Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Take part or cheer for your peers at the Royal Sporting Club, members-only tennis tournament.

E Call 17 586-612.

When? May 18 Event? Lecture - How will you get news in 2025?

Venue? Abdullah Al Zayed House A lecture by Jamal Khashugji, from 8pm to 10pm.

E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? May 14

Event? Music Festival

Venue? Coral Bay

Join Coral Bay in welcoming the summer with a starstudded reggae festival on the beach featuring the original Bob Marley band, The Wailers. Having sold over 250 million albums worldwide with Bob Marley, The Wailers are one of the most recognised reggae bands in the world. See the legends up close as they perform live in a fantastic, soulful reggae setting with cool vibes, groovy tunes and hit songs like I Shot the Sheriff and Redemption Song, amongst other worldwide

hits. Formed almost 50 years ago by Bob Marley with Bunny Walker, Peter Tosh and the Barrett Brothers (Carlton and Aston), the Jamaican group are renowned for some of the best loved reggae music to ever come out of the country.

The show starts from 9pm onward and tickets are available at Coral Bay for BD12.

Call 17 312-700 or 33 745-547.

TRIBUTES GALORE When? May 15 Event? Music Festival Venue? The Bahrain Rugby Football Club

Get ready for a shindig of massive proportions as the Bahrain Rugby Football Club presents Bahrain’s first open air family-friendly music festival, Trib Fest. The event will feature 21 tribute acts from the UK. The artists are being flown to Bahrain to perform classic hits from artists such as The Beatles, David Bowie, Robbie Williams, Oasis, Michael Bublé, Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars and many more. The festival will be held on the grass area of the club, from 10am to 10pm, offering a great selection of food and beverages.

Tickets are priced at BD12 for adults and BD6 for children under 12 years and can be purchased online at www.tribfesbh.com or from the club.

Call 17 695-809.

34 May 2015

TALLY YOUR RALLY When? May 15-23 Event? Tennis Tournament Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa

Get your tennis rackets at the ready as The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa organises its once a year Royal Sporting Club members only tennis tournament.

Ace your serves and show off on your back hand as you compete against your peers in different categories such as Men’s Single, Men’s Double, Ladies Single, Mixed Doubles and Junior (under 12 years of age). The tournament will be held from 6pm at the club’s tennis courts and tickets are priced at BD5++ per person including a light snack buffet on the final day.

Call 17 586-612.

When? May 21-23 Event? 1st GCC Game Jam Venue? Bahrain Polytechnic campus, Isa Town A three-day intense gaming competition that will put game developers’ skills to the test.

E Visit www.gccgamejam.org.

When? May 24-30 Event? 3rd Bahrain Retail Congress Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Enjoy everything related to retail conference, workshops, exhibition and shopping festival.

E Visit www.bahraintfair.com.

When? May 25 Event? Lecture Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research A lecture on ‘The Dialectic of the Demotic and the Elitist in Arabic Culture: The Critical and Cultural representations of the Arabic Folklore’ by Dya’a Alkaabi, from 8pm to 10pm.

E Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org.

When? May 29 Event? An Evening with Jamie Carragher Venue? Radisson Blu Diplomat Hotel, Bahrain Eat, walk and talk footie with football legend Jamie Carragher.

E Call 34 516-455 or email bahrain@ssmena.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mob: 00973 39 466111 Email: Khalid_jaberi@yyfakhro.com Showroom Tel. 17 408 150 www.yyfakhro.com

happenings

GAMING MANIA

FOOTIE FUN When?

May 29 An Evening with Jamie Carragher Venue? The Radisson Diplomat Hotel, Bahrain

When? May 21-23 Event? Gaming Competition Venue? Bahrain Polytechnic campus, Isa Town This is one for the hard-core gamers out there! The 1st GCC Game Jam is a competition that will put game developers’ skills to the test. The event will be held at Bahrain Polytechnic campus at Isa Town, with all activities taking place at building 12 (Bahrain Hall).

Participants in the competition will work in teams (two to four members) and each team will be asked to develop a game in less than three days, during which participants will have access to the venue 24 hours a day.

The theme of the required game will only be revealed at the beginning of the competition to ensure all games are developed during the event timing. A series of

Event?

workshops, themed on game design principles, will also be held to prepare local participants for the competition. Currently, two workshops have been planned for May 9 and 16 and will take place at Bahrain Polytechnic’s Entrepreneur Centre at Riyadat Mall. All workshops will be delivered by the

Bahrain Game Developers Community and the Bahrain Polytechnic Academic Staff. There will be cash prizes and other privileges for the first three teams as well as a best technical, best creative and a public award.

Call Visit www.gccgamejam.org

FUTURE OF RETAIL When? May 24-30 Event? Exhibition and Shopping Festival Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

The highly successful Bahrain Retail Congress returns this month and will be held under the patronage of His Excellency Zayed R Al Zayani, Minister of Industry and Commerce. Organised by Albayan Media Group, the 3rd Bahrain Retail Congress conference and workshops will be held from May 24 to 26 at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, with an exhibition and shopping festival from May 27 to 30 at Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre.

The conference and workshops will focus on the theme, ‘The Future of Retail’, to inform, update and conduct training sessions for employees and professionals in the retail industry and will be conducted in collaboration with globally certified training institutions. The exhibition and shopping festival, an annual attraction, will offer excellent incentives for retailers, distributors, manufacturers, wholesalers, consumers and the general public.

Hundreds of leading retail companies, carrying some of the world’s most popular brands, will display their products, including Kanoo Liwa Trading, AA Bin Hindi Group, Home Electronics, Mohamed Sharif Mohamed & Sons, Nazih Trading, Pepsi, Brands for Less, Remza Group, Max Mara and Sufana, all offering generous 36 May 2015

discounts on products and services. Over 50,000 visitors are expected from Bahrain and the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Activities include promotions, competitions and entertainment for the entire family, with food and beverage outlets.

Visit www.bahraintfair.com.

Eat, walk and talk football with ‘An Evening with Jamie Carragher’.

Anyone who watches Sky Sports knows this football legend all too well. He is a character who talks straight and true about football, its stars and the trials and tribulations of the modern game. Jamie is the premier football pundit for Sky Sports, football columnist for the Daily Mail and club ambassador for Liverpool and England. Jamie was Liverpool’s vice-captain for 10 years and is the club’s second-longest serving player ever, making 737 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions. He also holds the record for the most appearances in European competition for Liverpool with 150 games under his belt. He is a European Champions League winner and was part of the famous 2005 Liverpool Istanbul team.

Winning the UEFA Cup, European Super Cup, FA Cup, League Cup and Charity Shield, makes Jamie’s contribution to his boyhood club unquestionable.

The Evening will be hosted by former Sky Sports and Talk Sport and current Al-Kass presenter Rhodri Williams. The evening will also feature a UK Comedian and include dinner, a sports memorabilia auction, prize raffle and more.

Tickets are priced at BD30 and can be bought online at www.ssmena. com. Event starts at 7.30pm.

Call 34 516-455 or email bahrain@ssmena.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsafterdark

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JJ’S Join in the celebrations as this friendly neighbourhood joint turns 16. To mark the occasion, it is hosting what promises to be one of the most exciting birthday bashes of the year.

AFTER DARK CALENDAR When: May 5 Event: Cinco de Mayo Venue: Harvester Bar & Terrace, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy a special drinks promotion and a host of Mexican fare.

E Call 17 531-122.

When: May 7 Event: Sub Zero Venue: Meisei Come over for one of the coolest events of the month at the chic venue.

E Call 39 660-598.

When: May 7 Event: Tribute Show Venue: Sherlock Holmes This night is all about Madness featuring the tribute band One Step Behind.

E Call 33 751-144.

When: May 7 Event: Hip Hop party Venue: Ibrida Hip hop artist OT Genasis takes the stage along with Coco who releases her new single.

E Call 36 897-378.

Showing someone around in our tiny island is rather easy. You take them to key landmarks; Tree of Life, the BIC, Bahrain fort, perhaps follow it up with a trip to the museum or even City Centre Bahrain. In the end, if you still have some steam left, you know there’s just one place left to finish of your day— JJ’s in Adliya.

The Irish restaurant and pub has entertained Bahrain’s multi-cultural residents since it’s opening in 1999 and is a regular haunt for anyone looking for a good time. Offering the best of the Emerald Isle, JJ’s promises great food, beverages and entertainment.

“We’re pulling all stops to make sure we go bigger each year with JJ’s anniversary celebrations and this year is no exception,” says Siyana Koycheva, the restaurant manager.

The party takes place on June 5 and will be packed with entertainment starting from 6pm with 37 May 2015

resident DJ Tripz warming up the crowd before the headlining act, Paddyman.

Paddyman takes centre stage at 8pm with his infectious live energy, keeping everyone singing and dancing till late.

Expect best of JJ’s mouth-watering fare on the day. “Eat as much as you want and drink till you drop on our birthday, says Siyana. “The Irish have a saying for everything; so remember ‘Festa anocht agus gorta amarach’ which means ‘a feast tonight and a famine tomorrow’.”

Tickets to the party can be purchased at the door from 6pm and are priced at BD5.

Over the last 16 years, this restaurant and pub has introduced trendsetting theme nights and unique additions to Bahrain’s nightlife scene.

You can start the week at JJ’s Quiz Night and take advantage of extended Happy Hours from noon till midnight every Sunday. On

Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, ladies or ‘JJ’s Angels’ are offered unlimited selected beverages after 9pm for BD4. On Mondays, drop in for ‘Microphone Madness’, its dedicated karaoke night and return next day for ‘Double Up’ Tuesdays, to receive an upgrade on one house brand beverage for BD1.5 and a premium beverage for BD2. After a long night of partying on Friday, pop down on Saturday, for the ‘Hangover Irish Break-fest’ from 9am till noon.

JJ’s latest offering is called JJ’s XL Menu, catering to guests with an extra large appetite. The new menu offers a wide variety of dishes every day of the week. When it comes to food, the pub boasts a delicious variety of traditional dishes from the homeland complemented by some of the finest pub-grub from across the globe.

When: May 8 Event: Run DMC live Venue: Club Wrangler Pop down to see the hip hop legend in action.

E Call 39 831-380.

When: May 8 Event: Salsa Party Venue: Overlook, The Ritz Carlton Sway to the Latino beats and impress everyone with your best moves.

E Call 17 586-612.

When: May 8 and 22 Event: Salsa Night Venue: Bizzare Lounge, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Put on your dancing shoes and let the hot Latino rhythms take you away.

E Call 17 171-441.

When: May 22 Event: Tara McDonald Live Venue: JJ’s Irish Restaurant & Pub Dance the night away with the international star and DJ Adam Trigger.

E Call 39 329-083, 33 843-005.

Call 39 329-083 and 33 843-005. www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsafterdark

ABSOLUTE MADNESS When: May 28 and 29 Event: Beach Party Venue: Warbler Come down for a surf and sand bash at the popular pub.

E Call 38 381-631, 39 098-607.

Gear up for a series of sensational night-outs this month; from amazing tribute acts to original artists, there’s plenty to look forward to.

When? May 7 Event? Tribute show Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel

When: May 29 Event: Christina Milian Live Venue: Bushido Celebrate the venue’s sixth anniversary with the international star.

E Call 17 583-555, 17 581-487

The UK’s longest surviving Madness tribute band, One Step Behind, brings its crazy energy to the Kingdom at Sherlock Holmes in the Gulf Hotel. Formed in spring 1993, the band quickly achieved recognition. They have entertained audiences across Britain, including playing at prestigious venues like the Marquee Club in London and the Venue in New Cross.

Each member of the band grew up as a Madness fan, perfecting their portrayal of their original ‘Madness counterpart’. They strive to match every detail of the original, both musically and in appearance. Anything can happen when they’re onstage with their crazy antics, building up an absolutely nutty atmosphere. Be there on May 7 to catch them live. Entrance is priced at BD7.

Call 33 751-144.

When: Throughout May Event: Special promotion Venue: Boudoir, The Westin Bahrain City Centre Savour the special combination of Cohiba and Hennessy at the luxurious lounge.

E Call 17 171-441.

When: June 5 Event: 16th anniversary celebrations Venue: JJ’s Irish Restaurant & Pub Join in the fun at JJ’s sweet-sixteen with DJ Tripz and Paddyman.

E Call 39 329-083.

BIRTHDAY BASH

LAUGHTER HUB When? Throughout May Event? New band Venue? The Hub, Ramee Monroe Hotel Stepping up for summer is The Hub at Ramee Monroe as it introduces a new in-house band for the upcoming months. You get to dance away and laughout-loud with The Laffattack. The act delivers a combination of powerful voices, excellent music in addition to a brilliant comedy routine. This is certainly a band to watch out for. Each member of the group has performed at different venues for some time, until they met and realised that they share a common passion for great music and hearty laughter.

When? May 29 Event? 6th Anniversary party Venue? Bushido It’s a Hollywood-style affair on May 29 at Bushido, as it celebrates its sixth anniversary. A shimmering diva takes the stage, enthralling the crowds with her chartbusters from ‘PM to AM’. Christina Milian is singer songwriter who at the age of 19 was signed up by Def Jam and in 2001, released her first album, featuring the song AM to PM. The song hit top 40 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and reached the top three spot on the UK Singles Chart as well. In 2004, Milian released her second studio album It’s About Time, which provided her first major US hit. Christina’s act features DJ Carlos Campos and DJ Ravin and the three are supported by DJ Albert.

Call 17 583-555, 17 581-487.

Call 39 175-424, 34 579-391.

38 May 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERVIEWS

GET READY TO PARTY! CHARLIE HOLDING Sensational singer-songwriter Tara McDonald is set to rock the Kingdom this month as she performs a special concert at JJ’s Irish Restaurant.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 40 A SHINING EXAMPLE 45 JLR BACKSEAT CHAT

Tara McDonald

W

ith a string of hits already under her belt and collaborations with stars including Snoop Dogg, David Guetta, Todd Terry, Armand Van Helden and Axwell, this UK songstress has amassed a huge following both internationally and in the UK. Tara says she is thrilled about her upcoming visit to the Kingdom on May 22nd and promises fans a show they won’t forget.

“Travelling to Bahrain and bringing my music is crazy. I get to travel the world and sing songs, which was my childhood dream come true. I’m really excited; I’m hoping during my trip I can see something of the country and get to know the place a little bit,” she says.

“Fans can expect the greatest hits, my biggest tracks and a special rendition of my new single Vay-K featuring Snoop Dogg. I was overjoyed that Snoop wanted to be part of the record, I’ve been a fan of his for many years, he’s an icon. My friend, Danceland star www.bahrainthismonth.com

Laidback Luke, has remixed the track and I’m going to debut it in Bahrain.

“I’m coming to party with the people in Bahrain and we’re gonna share the experience together and it’s gonna be a really fun night.”

When it comes to performing, Tara says she loves an interactive crowd.

“I like to get close to the crowd and bring them into the experience,” she explains. “My role is to help people let loose and the crazier I go, it gives license to other people to go wild too. I’m going to give everything I’ve got to make sure people have a good time.”

Having recently signed a two-album deal with Universal Music, she is hard at work compiling new tracks for her debut LP. “Creating music makes me really happy, it’s something I’ve done since I was a kid, but back then I never really knew it could be a job. I get lost in my own thoughts and it’s an escape from reality, it’s quite cathartic,” she

says. “If I’m going through something I write about it to get it all out. I love to do it for myself and for other artists as well.”

Tara is no stranger to the stage and served a stint as a backing singer on the hit British TV series Strictly Come Dancing.

“It was one of the hardest jobs I’ve ever had,” Tara explains. “There were four of us and the other singers on that show were seasoned professionals. I learnt so much working with them, they’re fantastic and versatile.

“My first day I didn’t really know much about the show because I was always gigging at weekends, so didn’t watch Saturday night TV. “It was an incredible learning curve and I did it for three years. I was doing it before Feel The Vibe happened so I’d get to the set at 8am, wrap at 11pm, and then I’d get in my car and drive up north to perform in a club.”

This is one star who doesn’t waste a second of the day.

May 2015 39

interview

A SHINING EXAMPLE APPLE SHARMA Carrying on the legacy of a family name and a successful business is a very modest Mohammed Jaffar, chairman of Asia Jewellers. BTM speaks to him about his road to success.

W

orking with and appreciating the finer things in life comes naturally to 32-year old Mohammed Jaffar, who took over the reigns of the business from his late father Mahmood Jaffar and has since taken it to new heights.

Mohammed entered the family business at a young age. What started off as a summer job, turned into a career when he started working full time for his father in his early 20s. He learned the ropes by working his way through different positions and segments of the company. “Today it helps me because I know how long a repair should take compared to how long it’s actually taking and how much it should cost,” says Mohammed. “It wasn’t easy but it was still interesting that I got the opportunity to work with someone (my father) who had all that experience.”

Asia Jewellers had a humble start when Mahmood Jaffar started the business in the early 1960s. “He had a passion for luxurious things,” explains Mohammed. “It started off with furniture, which he had a strong interest in, but also jewellery, watches and fashion.”

After a few initial set backs, Asia Jewellers opened with a small office in the old souq, dealing in Bahraini gold, Indian jewellery and gold and eventually Italian jewellery.

“He acquired our first brand Corum and the second was IWC in terms of watches,” says Mohammed. “Eventually, we moved here to MODA mall in 1983 and closed down the souq store and from there he branched out into further stores. Our biggest expansion happened 40 May 2015

Mohammed Jaffar

when we opened the Cartier boutique in 1993-94, which was our first mono-branded boutique. It took us several years but eventually we opened many stores and expanded into Saudi Arabia with a Cartier boutique in the Eastern Province.

“Today, we are very different to what we were when he was here but he instigated this growth and planning. Today we have an equal amount of multi-branded stores and mono-branded Asia Jewellers stores.”

When asked about challenges and perks of working for a family business, Mohammed says: “The perk is that it’s a family business and at the same time that is also the exact challenge. You walk into work and you’re colleagues and the moment you leave, you’re family. So, the lines get blurred between the two. It’s always challenging working with family but the trust we have between each other is really our strength.”

What Mohammed enjoys most about his role is that it’s an honest business and one that gives him an opportunity to meet good people, build strong relationships, deal with fine things and work with high craftsmanship. His father has been his biggest inspiration and motivation.

“My father is the reason we come to work everyday,” he says. “He used to always say ‘I

left you a good name and it’s not yours, it’s your children’s, so take care of it and hand it to the next generation’. Eventually, we hope to pass this on to our children and personally that gives me the greatest motivation.”

Looking to the future, Mohammed says: “Business wise, we’d like to continue to present the best brands and products, the right retail environment and the right service. We want our clients to leave feeling satisfied that they’ve spent their money on something worthwhile. In the future we’d like to expand further into the Saudi market.

Personally a fan watches, Mohammed’s favourite brand is IWC. “IWC is one of the many brands that I like and one that I admire,” he says. “Everyone’s tastes are different. I like to go for something understated. I prefer very low key, classic watches, thinner, smaller cases.”

When Mohammed isn’t dealing with the finer things in life, he likes to read history. “I like my privacy and my alone time — I like staying at home and relaxing,” he says. Someone who is accustomed to dealing with luxurious things, it comes as a slight surprise when he says, “I find electronics very amusing and if I wasn’t doing this I would probably be more involved in doing something concerned with electronics.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

HAIL TO THE CHIEF CHARLIE HOLDING Although perhaps best known for his continued role as personal physician to His Majesty King Hamad, Rtd Maj General Dr Tariq Hameed has added a new string to his bow as chief medical officer at Awali Hospital.

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ince taking the mantle, the hospital has already seen a 25 per cent surge in patients and tripled its number of surgical cases.

The reason behind the increase is simple: Dr Tariq leads by example. “When I came to Awali, I immediately saw the potential. There are lots of good nurses and doctors around and I knew if I could properly motivate them we could achieve a lot,” he says.

“When you have a leader that shows he’s willing to put in the work, people become more motivated. When people see you doing a lot of work, it inspires them to do the same.

And lots of work is something that Dr Tariq knows all about. His illustrious career is marked by several impressive milestones.

Coming from a military background, the retired major general began his career in 1979 and worked his way up from the bottom with hard graft and determination.

He moved to Ireland in 1984 and spent four years there before returning to the Kingdom in 1988 and taking up the position of consultant surgeon in a military hospital.

In 1989 he was made head of the accident and emergency department and held the position for 10 years. He was then made head of the surgical department, a position he held for a further 10 years. During that time he was also chief of medical staff for two years and director of training for two years.

In order to secure his role as chief medical officer at Awali, Dr Tariq had to retire from the military, a huge decision that resulted in a number of new work challenges.

“It’s very different. The military assignment is a big teaching hospital and Awali Hospital is a www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr. Tariq Hameed

fairly small place, it has only 28 beds whereas BDF has 450,” he explains.

It’s not just the inner workings of the hospital that have changed since Dr Tariq’s arrival.

Structurally, there is an acute care area in the pipeline and there are plans to build a new operating theatre along with intensive care facilities as well.

Dr Tariq insists that patients at Awali are treated the same way as patients in BDF. However, protocols are different when dealing with VIPs and VVIPs who utilise the facility.

“Yes, protocols are in place when treating VVIP patients and, obviously, we follow them.

However, all patients receive the best care possible. “Medicine is a profession where the doctor is known for the way he handles not only the diseases, the patient too. Good beside manner is important,” he says.

Despite soaring to the height of his profession, Dr Tariq didn’t originally intend to be a doctor. “I wanted to be a pilot when I was a kid. I was born in Pakistan and my father was in Bahrain working in the Royal Airforce and I think that’s were the desire came from,” he explains.

“I applied to Pakistan Air Force School and went there to do the initial papers and

interview. When I went for medial exam, I found out I had myopia and was told that I couldn’t fly and that was a big disappointment.”

While coming to terms with the grounding of his aviation career, Dr Tariq found solace through his uncle, who happened to be a doctor, and helped him figure out his next move.

“My uncle isn’t that much older than me and he is very friendly. I was sitting with him, very upset, and he said ‘why don’t you become a doctor? It’s a profession where you can help people, there will always be work and if you don’t get a job in the hospital you can open your own clinic.’”

When he arrived at medical school, he instantly decided to become a surgeon and has barely put his scalpel down ever since.

Ironically, the retired military man is a general surgeon, which means he handles everything except bones, the heart and brains.

“I’m still running four sessions of patient clinics and two sessions of surgery each week,” Dr Tariq says. “At the peak of my career at BDF, I used to do 17 surgeries in one day. It’s amazing how much you can do in a hospital where people are geared to work, and I look forward to Awali reaching this level very soon.”

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Huda, Adel, Mona & Kareena

Luca & Angela

Grand Italian Charity Ball The Italian Embassy in collaboration with the Italian Bahraini Friendship Association and Italian Ladies Group held the 5th edition of the Grand Italian Charity Ball at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. The artistic director of the event was Prince Maurizio Agosti Montenaro Durazzo, master of ceremonies of the Carnival of Venice and art director of the International Association for Carnival of Venice.

HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, Romina & Prince Maurizio Martina & Simonetta

Roaya, Shaikha Hind, Romina & Mala

Rie, Catherine, Namarzia, Elena, Enrica & Angela

Jill, Noora, Jules, Michelle, Rodney, Ron, Travis & Garfield

Giulia, Matteo, Valentina, Giorgio, Luana, Leonardo, Martina & Fabio

Doris, Barbara, Ingo & Panos

42 May 2015

Etienne, Lola, Rosiane & Marco

Weena, Shay, Denita & Elizabeth

Michele, Jawahari, Sasha & Homa

Filippo, Cristina, Silvana & Dawood

Linda, Nadine, Lulu & Evangeline

www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

TALE OF TWO PRINCES LIZ O’REILLY BTM speaks to the man responsible for the stunning costumes at this year’s Grand Italian Charity Ball.

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rince Maurizio Agosti Montenaro Durazzo was the main man at this year’s Italian ball, not only organising the entertainment and costumes but playing the main part in the theme. He explains how research for the event led to a stunning exhibition taking place at Bahrain National Museum.

“I was involved with Bahrain’s Italian ball last year when they had a Venetian carnival theme (he is Master of Ceremonies at the Venice Carnival and also director of the International Association for Carnival of Venice) and was delighted when they invited me to come back this year.”

This year’s theme was based on the 1960s’ Italian film Il Gattopardo, or The Leopard, which is set in 1860 as Garibaldi’s troops set about the reunification of Italy. It is a romance set in Sicily

Prince Maurizio Agosti Montenaro Durazzo

with aristocrat Prince Salina as the main character played by Prince Maurizio at the ball.

He says: “When I heard the theme would be Il Gattopardo I immediately went to Palermo to start research and there I met an amazing collector, Raffaello Piraino, who has more than 3,000 costumery items dating from the 17th century through to the 1950s, including a great selection from the 1860s, the setting for the film.

“He agreed that we could display some of them in Bahrain and we planned to exhibit 10

pieces around the lobby of the hotel prior to the ball. But when Culture Minister Shaikha Mai saw the pictures, she felt it was an important enough collection to be featured in Bahrain National Museum and we expanded it from just 10 pieces to 24, including accessories.

“The ball included the perfumes, costumers, music and culture of Sicily and this exhibition truly brings a piece of Sicilian culture to Bahrain.”

The exhibition will run daily until July 21.

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Michele, Romina, Prince Maurizio & HE Alberto Vecchi

Carol & Gordon

Fanny & Christina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fareed & Roaya

Alessio & Tanya

Khalid, Alex, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, Ruth & Michael

Brett, Nina, Vlada, Hilton, Irina & Alex

Ciska & Antonella

Kareena & Zubi

Brice, Jhon & Alex

Noora & Travis

Claudia & Dave

Christina

Andrew & Azi

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interview

EVER EXPANDING LIZ O’REILLY With a prestigious award under its belt and aggressive growth plans for the future, BTM speaks to CEO Faisal Jawad about what’s in store for the Jawad Business Group.

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home-grown success story, Jawad Business Group operates around 600 outlets and employs around 5,400 staff across the GCC, with 171 outlets and 2,600 workers in Bahrain alone.

Last year the group grew its turnover by nine per cent and it recently took home the coveted Franchisee of the Year Award for one of its most popular brands, Papa John’s.

“Jawad Business Group won the award for having delivered double-digit comparable sales growth for three consecutive years in Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar,and Oman and also having pizza scores in excess of 9.5 on a scale of 10. This award is also testimony to the consumer acceptance of Papa John’s as their preferred pizza,” says Faisal.

“We competed with 48 other franchisees. All our franchise markets were in the top 10 worldwide and it is a matter of immense pride that Bahrain was number one in the world.

44 May 2015

Faisal Jawad

“This award means a lot to us. It is an acknowledgement of the work done by Jawad Business Group in establishing Papa John’s Pizza as the preferred pizza in its franchise markets. With an 89-store portfolio, we are amongst the largest Papa John’s Pizza franchisees in the world and we hope to open our 100th store in the next 24 months.”

And though a planned IPO (initial public offering) is not now going ahead, there are still plans for expansion in other markets.

Faisal says: “We have realised that an IPO may not work in the GCC markets as the equity culture is still in its infancy and the markets lack depth. The expansion into Syria couldn’t proceed in light of the situation in the country.

We presently operate six restaurants in Erbil in Northern Iraq and are looking to open three more restaurants in this market this year. We see this as a launch pad into the wider Iraqi

market in the years to come as the situation on the ground stabilises.

“Expansion is a function of opportunities and we do see expansion possibilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE and Bahrain in that order. Given the ample opportunities in these markets, we are not looking to newer markets at this stage.”

And after launching Hunkemoller — Europe’s leading brand — ladies lingerie store in Bahrain last year, followed by store openings in Oman and the UAE, there are also exciting new products coming in the near future.

Says Faisal: “We are always looking for new opportunities. We recently signed up the franchise for Hotter Shoes from the United Kingdom and the distribution rights for SoftScience shoes from USA. “We always look to brands with a credible offering and try to bring in brands which can cater to regional needs. And our food and beverage brands such as Costa, Chilis, Dairy Queen, Burger King and Papa John’s Pizza and also fashion and home brands like BHS, Mango, Hush Puppies, Pumpkin Patch, Lakeland and The White Company amongst others continue to be extremely popular.”

And having followed his own father and elder brother Ali into the family business, Faisal is pleased that young family members are keeping up the tradition. He says: “This is a natural process and we now have several young Jawad family members working in the Group in management roles. They bring today’s consumer insights into the business and also ensure that the business keeps pace with consumer expectations. They also help to define shareholder expectations from the business. www.bahrainthismonth.com

spotlight

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

Bridget Lindsay with George F Middleton

JAGUAR LAND ROVER

BACKSEAT CHAT Behind every great man is a great woman, so the saying goes, and lending credence to that is Bridget Lindsay, wife of HE Iain Lindsay, the British Ambassador to Bahrain.

As Britain’s first lady in the Kingdom, Bridget is no stranger to hosting and being hosted at parties. However, there’s much more to her than meets the eye.

Bridget is a diplomat, an English teacher, a mother, writer and a master events organiser. She joins George Middleton for a tête-à-tête in a Range Rover Sport for a drive through Amwaj Islands.

The journey starts at Bridget’s residence, inside the British Embassy, as she greets George under the shade of an enormous banyan tree growing in the garden.

The Lindsays will shortly be moving on to a www.bahrainthismonth.com

new diplomatic assignment and leaving the Kingdom behind, but Bridget says they’ll be taking many fond memories with them.

“It was a little bit of a shock when we first arrived in Bahrain,” she says. “It was the August of 2011, the month of Ramadan, average temperatures were over 40 degrees and we thought the whole place was empty. So, it took a little while to get a feel of what Bahrain was like.”

With familial links to Ireland, Bridget is no stranger to the hospitality of the Irish and likens Bahrain to the Emerald Isle in terms of the friendly welcome visitors receive.

“The Bahraini attitude of warmth and welcome, of feeding you on any opportunity and sharing, really reminds me of the Ireland,” she says.

Bridget was inducted into Her Britannic Majesty’s Diplomatic Service in 1980 and was posted to Warsaw, Poland, where she also met her husband HE Iain Lindsay. She has been on unpaid leave since 2004 and has assisted her husband across his various postings.

“I love the combination of travel, current affairs, international relations and the opportunity to actually live in different countries. It’s great to get to know the people

and the culture.”

However, transitioning from a diplomat to a diplomat’s wife came with its own set of challenges. “It’s a job in itself,” she says. “We like to consider ourselves as a team. So I still contribute.”

Although the job seems exciting from a distance, diplomats have to deal with the disruptive cycle of having to move every couple of years, which takes a toll on forming personal relationships.

Bridget says humour and teamwork can help you deal with any situation. “A lot depends on your attitude. For us, that’s the life we’ve chosen and, if you look at it as an adventure rather than a terrible thing that you’re going to have to do all over again, it really helps.”

With a career that has seen the family move across the world, Bridget says she has learnt one thing above all else. “People are people,” she says. “It doesn’t matter where you are in the world, we all laugh about the same things and worry about the same things.”

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

May 2015 45

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indian

ambassador in

May 2015

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month

The Impressive Accomplishments of HE Dr Mohan Kumar and Mrs Mala Kumar www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 47

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HE Dr. Mohan Kumar and Mrs. Mala Kumar

A Fond Farewell As HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, prepares to leave the island after a record-breaking four-and-half-year tenure, the official, and his wife Mala, chatted to Bahrain This Month about their time in the Kingdom.

48 May 2015

“I was Deputy Head of Mission in Paris when we heard we were coming to Bahrain and the reaction from was either ignorance, they didn’t know where Bahrain was, or those who had been here had only good things to say. Everyone who knew the island told us how lucky we were, and they were right,” says HE Dr Kumar.

Mala Kumar agrees describing how they had to show people on a map where they were heading!

In post during the political unrest of February 2011, HE Dr Kumar showed his mettle by establishing a 90-strong volunteer force which could reach Indians in the community to offer reassurance and keep them informed.

He says: “It was a challenging time. Political assessment was needed to make the decision to pull together to get through this and I am glad I took that decision. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister was of immense support, he came to us and assured us Indians are safe in Bahrain and we communicated with him

throughout and with the Indians in the Kingdom through the volunteer network.

“As an embassy we have a small staff for the size of the Indian community, which is Bahrain’s biggest expat group, so the volunteers were essential. They came to the embassy and we gave them information to take out to our people across the island such as those running cold stores in remote areas.”

HE Dr Kumar’s concern for his countrymen has perhaps been most strongly demonstrated in his work in strengthening the Indian Community Relief Fund (ICRF), which he also calls his greatest achievement.

He explains: “Most people don’t know that between 100 and 145 Indians die here each year, mostly in the workplace but there are around 25 to 30 suicides. When I came here I discovered that 80 per cent of them have no life insurance. They are often the only breadwinner and their families back home become destitute.

“My first thing was to strengthen the ICRF to make www.bahrainthismonth.com

sure everybody who dies gets coverage. We’ve also established an open house system so that people can come and speak to the embassy’s labour councilor every day — it used to be just Fridays.

“I would further like to see and electronic e-migrate system so that every worker who comes here from India would have a valid labour contract.

“One important change the Indian Government has introduced since I’ve been here is that single women from India cannot come to the region to work unless they have a degree and a proper written contract. That’s brought down the number of illegal house maids and is a very welcome move.”

Normally diplomats have expertise in the language or country to which they are assigned, for instance both Mr and Mrs Kumar are fluent French speakers, but prior to Bahrain HE Dr Kumar says his postings had been more intellectual and Bahrain was a great opportunity to be a more involved, hands-on ambassador.

Regular postings are generally for three years but his extension was due, in part, to his success in securing a royal visit to his country by HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

The diplomat explains: “I met His Majesty and I asked him ‘which part of India do you like?’ He said he had never been and I said I would like to make it happen. He agreed and said he would go!

“A visit like that can take up to a year to organise, in this case it was about eight months, so my tenure was extended.

“Then, of course, we had elections in India and every new government takes some time to get settled in and decide its diplomatic postings, so I was extended again and we were privileged to host the first visit of an Indian Foreign Minister to Bahrain in more than 30 years.”

Mrs Kumar adds: “These visits and the fact that HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalif, the Crown Prince, has also visited India twice, with people from the business community, have made Indians feel that they are being recognised.

“There were people who accompanied these trips who had been to India years ago and have now seen a whole different country.”

HE Dr Kumar considers the extension to his time in Bahrain a bonus and feels his time here has been productive in many ways. “I think people have appreciated the events we have organised to showcase Indian culture and I believe we have helped to strengthen bilateral relations.

“Trade between our two countries is currently standing at around USD2 billion and I believe this is an area where investment can be grown, though this is no longer really an area for diplomats and governments but rather for the private sector.”

As they prepare to head off to the plum posting of Paris, having been instrumental in pushing for construction to finally start on the long-stalled new embassy building, the Kumars remember the highlights of their time in Bahrain fondly.

“I think one of the best things for me has been forming www.bahrainthismonth.com

close relations with many of the interesting Bahraini women I’ve met here. They are highly successful businesswomen and very dynamic,” says Mala.

“I’ve been extremely impressed with the Indian Ladies Association (of which she is Patron) and the Sneha organisation which does such great work with children with special needs.

“I’ve had the chance to visit labour camps where workers will often open up to woman about their problems but would hesitate to come to the embassy for help. Getting involved with the charity work being done here has been highly rewarding.

“I have also been involved in teaching Bahraini students for the IELTS English exam and with the Crown Prince Scholarship Programme where I interacted with some very bright Bahraini youth.”

HE Dr Kumar says one of his own best experience was being welcomed into the places of worship of the four different religions of the Indian community in one day when he first arrived — a Muslim mosque, a Sikh gurdwara, a Hindu temple and a Christian church.

He adds: “Bahrain is defined by its people who are open-minded, tolerant and welcoming to foreigners, which explains why expats love it and indeed it is ranked as one of the best places for expats in the region. It is amazing how the average Bahraini will open his heart and hearth to foreigners and make you feel at home!”

And his parting message, as well as telling the island’s expat community that we should all appreciate this wonderful Kingdom we call home, is: “When I leave, I stop being India’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain but I would like to be Bahrain’s ambassador to the world at large — I want to tell the world what a great place this is.”

HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at the Taj Mahal during his visit to India

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Farewell Parties

Mala Kumar & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

After their four and a half years on the island, VIPs, friends and business associates organised several events to bid farewell to HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador and wife Mala.

Mohammed Yateem, Ahmed Jawahary, Mohammed Dadabhai, Khalid Almoayyed, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Zayed Alzayani, Minister of Industry & Commerce, HE William Roebuck, US Ambassador, HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Hassan Jarrar & Abdul Hameed Kooheji

Mohammed Dadabhai, Anisa, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Aziz & Ahmed

Abeer, Ahmed & Anisa

Shubha, Homa, Romina, Sherry & Mala

Aziz, Dr Tariq & Fahim

Kishore & Babu

Dheeptha, Shantharam, Asha, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Quraishi Dadabhai & Harish

Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa & Batul

Asha & Prakash

Usma & Afshan

Babu Kewalram & family

Mala & Asha with friends

50 May 2015

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Mala & Rashida

Wongjan, Leylan, Lillian, Rocio, Mala, Bridget, Anne, Tosin & Suwimol

Iro & Mala

Rashida Tadayon’s farewell

Mala & Heather

Vijay Boloor’s farewell

Panos, Anne, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala, George & Doris

Mariam, Roya, Iro, Mala, Mona, Jihan, Janan & Karina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Anne & Mala

Ratna, Anne, Nor, Asha, Mala & Alison

Karina, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala & Anil

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indianambassadorsupplement Mohammed and Anisa Dadabhai with HE Dr Mohan and Mala Kumar

A Fitting Tribute APPLE SHARMA As the time approaches for the Indian Ambassador HE Dr Mohan Kumar to bid farewell to Bahrain, leading Bahraini businessman Mohammed Dadabhai chats to BTM about Dr Kumar’s tenure in the Kingdom.

52 May 2015

Mohammed and Anisa Dadabhai held a farewell gettogether for the Indian Ambassador HE Dr Mohan Kumar and his wife Mala Kumar at their residence.

Important officials and dignitaries were invited to the soiree and Mohammad gave a glowing speech in Dr Kumar’s honour.

“During his tenure of four and a half years, Mohan Kumar has played a huge role in building relations between Bahrain and India,” says Mohammed. “He was instrumental in organising a visit by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and two visits of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa to India. He also arranged for India’s foreign minister Sushma Swaraj, the first senior cabinet minister after the new Modi government, to visit Bahrain.

“We should give credit to him for his hard work and commitment in developing relations between the two countries. I have also seen him work particularly hard for the welfare of the Indian community.”

Mohammad, who is also the chairman of the Bahrain India Society, feels HE Dr Kumar’s vision has always been very productive. “He has developed synergy between Bahrainis and Indians and I think, as a diplomat, in my opinion, he has probably been the best ambassador we have had so far,” says Mohammed. “He has set up procedures in place for the next ambassador who takes over.

“I have no words to express my appreciation and I’m very sad that he is leaving. I think a person of his calibre will definitely go places and grow from strength to strength in his career.”

Mohammed also praises HE Dr Kumar for not just doing a great job with the Indian community and in developing relations between the two countries, but also for being well connected with the Bahrain community.

With India’s new Modi government emphasising on economy, Mohammed believes that Dr Kumar suits the agenda of the Indian government perfectly, having met all the top leaders of the world.

“The new government’s slogan ‘Make in India’ shows what India can offer and I feel ambassadors like Mohan Kumar will play a role because he himself is an economist and has got the right potential,” says Mohammed.

“The ambassador is always the image of a country and I think today Indians, who are the largest expat community in the country, enjoy the fruit of the growth of the Bahrain economy. I think our leadership has been very kind and always appreciative of the efforts of the Indians and I think this relationship should grow more.”

Mohammed has been working with Indian educational institutions (medical and engineering colleges) and his aim is to get sponsorship support for Bahraini students.

“Bahrain needs Indian institutions and Mohan Kumar has played a big role in promoting what Bahrain can offer and, as a result, there have been a few good successful outcomes. He has always been passionate about the welfare of the Indians and the Bahrainis,” he says.

Talking about the ambassador’s wife, Mala Kumar, Mohammed says: “Mala has had extremely cordial relationships with all the communities, especially the Bahraini community. She’s a charming lady and has definitely played a role in creating good public relations for the ambassador.

“Wherever Mohan Kumar goes, I’m sure that he will perform well. As they say in cricket, ‘he’s one player who can play on any field’. I wish him all the very best and look forward to his bright future.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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His Majesty King Hamad welcomed at Hotel Maurya by Mr. Chaddha, general manager of the hotel & Mala Kumar

A Tribute To An Ambassador A look back over four and a half years in Bahrain This Month with HE Dr Mohan Kumar, departing Indian Ambassador, and wife Mala.

Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador to Bahrain greets His Majesty King Hamad

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Salman Khurshid & Mala Kumar

HE Abdulla Abdullatif, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, HE Salman Khurshid & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Mala Kumar, HE E. Ahamed & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Mala Kumar, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Omar Khurshid

Mridul Kumar, Joint Secretary (Gulf), HE Sunil Jain, Indian Ambassador to Kuwait & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

HE Kuldeep Bharadwaj, Indian Ambassador, Algeria, Sandeep Kumar, Joint Secretary (WANA), Mala & HE Anil Trigunayat, Indian Ambassador, Libya

Ahlam, Shanthini, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Shaikha Hind, Mala Kumar & Meera

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mathew Deakin, HE Dr Mohan & Mala Kumar

Abdullah Al Doseri, Hassan Jarrar & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

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Shaikha Huda, Mala & Rashida

Mala & Shirley

Srijita

54 May 2015

Mariam

Mala & Shaikha Maram

Liliane, Mala & Jehan

Balqees

Amal, Mala & Rihana

Veronica, Vicky & Mary

Fareeda & Layla

Shandra, Huda, Shahrazad, Mala & Shohra

Mona & Mala

Dr Fakhriya, Mala & Ahlam

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HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala & Juzer Rupawala

George, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Samira Rajab & Ronnie

Ajay Kumar, Mansoor Al Jamri & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Asha & Mala

Mala, Bonnie & Milena

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Bhagwan Asarpota

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Ajay & Ashok

HE Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Othman Sharif, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Mala

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Gernot Taufmann

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Shaikha Wesal, Bonnie Krajeski, Mala Kumar, Milena Padula & Bridget Lindsay

Shanthini, Smitha, Mala & Lathika

Reena, Mala, Sunada & Jayshree

Mala & Milena

56 May 2015

Mala & Vani

Mala, Anisa & Lynne

Florine & Mala

Mala, Anne, George & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Job Well Done HE Dr Moham Kumar, Indian Ambassador, will shortly complete his term in Bahrain and tributes have been paid to the popular diplomat.

Karim Ebrahim Al-Shakar, former Undersecretary for International Affairs, paid tribute to HE Dr Mohan Kumar, the departing Indian Ambassador, saying: “He was like a Maharaja in Bahrain because it has such a big Indian community.

“He is very popular with the Indian community and has done an excellent job of developing and promoting amicable and friendly relations between our two countries.

“To have been in post and responsible during three important royal visits is quite an achievement.”

HE Dr Kumar is an ambassador who is noted not only for his diplomacy but also his business skills having been India’s chief negotiator at the World Trade Organisation and Mr Al-Shakar also spoke about their connection through United Nations work saying: “I co-operated with him when I was with international affairs and also when working with the United Nations and I found him very knowledgeable and skilled in bilateral and multilateral diplomacy.

“One of his most important roles in Bahrain has been looking towards sustainable economic development with Indians employed in the Economic Development Board and Bahrain Development Bank.

“That Dr Kumar hosted the first overseas visit by the Modi government’s Foreign Minister shows the esteem he and Bahrain are

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indianambassadorsupplement

Karim Ebrahim Al-Shakar and HE Dr Mohan Kumar

held in by New Delhi and this was an occasion that was very good for our international relations.

“Our partnership has grown and been cemented by the hard work of Dr Kumar and his fingerprint is very firmly on the relations between our two countries.

“He will be very much missed and I salute him on a job well done and wish him, of course, success for the future.”

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HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa & Mala Kumar

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Ahmed Al Mannai

HE Abdulla Abdullatif, HE Sameera Rajab & HE Mohan Kumar with members of the diplomatic community at the cake-cutting ceremony

Yulia, Mala & Leylan

Ram Singh, Mala Kumar, HE Abdulla Abdullatif Abdulla, & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Chandini, Mala, HE RKMA Rajakaruna, Sri Lankan Ambassador & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Andrew, Mala, Tosin & Liliane

Khalid Almoayed, Mala Kumar, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Abdul Hameed Kooheji

Tomoko Sumi, Mala, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador

Lynne, Abdulrahman, Mala, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Norma & Michael

58 May 2015

Uzma, Mala, Afshan & Mrs Gillitwala

HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Mala with Dr & Mrs Ravi Preet Singh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Padmanabham, Shailaja, Mala & HE Mohan Kumar

Mala, Irwin & Renuka

Mala, Younis & Ingrid

Kiran & Mala

Ron

Rashmi

Shubha & Raj

Dr Ravi Pillai & HE Mohan Kumar

Johanne & Andi

Mitesh, Ashalatha, Shantharam, Liz & HE Mohan Kumar

Dr Mansoor, Effat, Mala, HE Mohan Kumar, Rohit, Anita, Maria & Juzer

Best Wishes To Our Departing Indian Ambassador H E Dr Mohan Kumar

For more information please contact: Tel: +973 17220787/88/89

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 59

bystander

Shandra, Jano, Liliane, Souheil, Mala, Philip, Vicky, Marco, Rocio, Carmen, Liliane & Kiran

Huda, Mala & Janan

Mohammed Kooheji & Sons, Adel, Mala, Mona, Ahlam & Jawad Al Hawaj

Ahmed Jawahery, Mala, Homa & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Khalid Al Zayani

Mala, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & George Williams

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Mr Al Mannai

HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar, HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs, Shaikha Marwa bint Rashid Al Khalifa, HE Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa & Captain Mahmood Al Mahmood

Shaikha Aysha, Shaikha Huda, Mala & Doris

Rasha, Shaikha Haya, Saji, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

60 May 2015

Shaikha Hind with Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Mala & Megha

Bonnie Krajeski, HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador & Mala Kumar

Jacqueline, Beverley, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Zeina Testot, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Ashalatha, Mala & Shantharam

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

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

Mala, Qutub & Uzma

pApA g & Mala

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Mala Kumar, Bridget Lindsay & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Jaap, Wendy, Mala, Leylan, Dogan & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Punnet, Neetha, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Sharon, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala & Irwin

Mala, Tomoko, Romina & Stephanie

62 May 2015

Raj & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Peter, Mala, Liz & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Qays, Karina, Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Lynne, Mala, Shandra & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Renuka Ravindran, Dr Mustafa Al Sayed, HE Mohan Kumar, HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs & Mala Kumar

Nor Hayati & HE Ahmed Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador

Mala & Kanika

Anne & pApA g rapping "An Ode To Mala-jiiii"

HE Mohamed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador, Mala, Lana & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Mohammed Dadabhai

Jean, Veronique, Mala, Balqees, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Khalid Almoayed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

cosmetictreatments

More than Skin Deep They say beauty is only skin deep, perhaps that’s true.

However, there’s certainly nothing wrong with wanting to look and feel your best. BTM has compiled an essential list of the Kingdom’s leading cosmetic products and services.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Immaculate skin, whiter teeth, more hair; everyone has something they would like to change about themselves. With a little help from the professionals, these goals are within reach for many people.

Time waits for no one. Nature will run its course and along with it comes sagging, greying and wrinkles, among other issues. With many procedures now being open and available to almost everyone, and not seen as only an option for those with money or as a luxury, people have the chance to reinvent themselves.

Al Mansoori Dental Center (MDC) provides dental treatments in all fields of dentistry. Since opening in 1998, it has endeavoured to provide patients with the best possible care whether they be children, adults or patients with special needs or those with special medical conditions.

The centre is equipped with 10 dental offices with five dentists all working together to provide proper care to patients, giving them a reason to smile. MDC provides special offers for brides and graduates and those celebrating other occasions. Treatments can

vary from simple mouth hygiene to the most complicated smile make over.

Bliss Spa offers some of the best non invasive face and body treatments on the island. It is the only spa that offers the Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument (CACI) which is the best kept secret of all women who want a non-invasive facelift.

A CACI treatment is tiny micro currents of electricity to stimulate facial or other muscles in the body. The muscles are gently exercised, leading to an increase in the production of protein. This procedure tightens and firms up the muscles and reduces slackness and restores a firmer shape and tone to the face or body.

Bliss Spa also offers LPG Systems treatment for face and body, which is a natural and non-invasive alternative to surgery, with proven results.

The spa also offers its signature crystal clear facial, which gives instant results using oxygenated sterilised crystals to remove dead skin cells and regenerate fresh new ones. Skin becomes silky soft after just one treatment. This facial specifically treats acne scars, pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.

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cosmetictreatments

JOZ SALON & SPA

Sunless Tanning You don’t have to be a sun worshiper to get that perfect sunkissed glow. Sunless tanning is becoming increasingly popular and spray tans are the answer.

64 May 2015

If lying down in the sweltering heat to get some colour isn’t your cup of tea, then spray tanning is the perfect alternative, if done right!

The key to getting that flawless spray tan as seen in ads is using premium products and professionalgrade equipment.

To most people, every spray tan booth works the same way. You walk into an enclosed capsule, press the start button and your body is covered in a lightweight mist that later develops into a gorgeous glow. Since the entire system is automated, you don’t need to think about the behind-the scenes mechanics that make it happen.

In reality, however, the design of a tanning booth has a huge impact on the quality and lifespan of your results. With the right system, every procedure can offer you a Gisele-like glow.

In addition to being a leading company in the development of professional self-tanning products and accessories, St Tropez develops some of the best tanning booth designs in the market.

Available at Joz Salon & Spa, this booth boasts cutting-edge technology that works well for every skin type and tone. Filtered extraction units work overtime to keep the air clean and remove excess spray residue, while an automated airbrush system evenly covers the entire body with a high-end tanning solution.

The machine’s adjustable temperature settings make it easy to instantly adapt to special requests and seasonal changes.

One of the biggest advantages of using the brand is that it turns a simple spray tan into a spa-like experience. Unlike lower quality formulas that can be sticky and cold, St Tropez’s tanning solution feels light and airy.

The system’s custom controls make it possible to change the temperature of the mist as needed, so you never have to worry about being cold or uncomfortable.

As the products are designed to dry quickly, you can be on your way in just a few minutes after application, without worrying about ruining your tan or staining your clothes.

Whether you need a great machine for your tanning salon or just love sunless tanning, St Tropez’s spray tan booth is the perfect choice.

Keep in mind that any salon spray tan works best when applied to clean skin and paired with the right products.

While St Tropez’s tanning booth is one of the best designs in the sunless tanning industry, it should only be used on polished skin to avoid uneven coverage.

Tan-enhancing moisturisers should be used as follow-up products to extend the lifespan of the colour in between salon sessions. If you use spray tans on a regular basis, exfoliate your skin before every session. Use daily hydrating moisturisers to keep your skin silky smooth and to hold on to your golden colour longer.

Call 16 031-120. www.bahrainthismonth.com

cosmetictreatments LAD HAIR

Getting to The Root of Hair Loss

Dr Tahsin Al-Waheb and his team with a happy customer

Hair loss can have a devastating effect on self-esteem; fortunately, help is at hand for the follically challenged.

66 May 2015

Hair restoration used to be a taboo subject. However, with a number of celebrities openly advocating the procedure, it has grown in popularity exponentially.

Dr Tahsin Al-Waheb, head surgeon of Lad Hair Restoration Medical Clinic in Manama, believes that hair loss needn’t be a final sentence for your follicles.

Lad Hair is a branch of Los Angeles Doctors Hair Restoration Medical Centre, Los Angeles, California.

The Bahrain centre’s fully trained, certified and licensed staff has performed more than 1,000 operations with impressive results.

Dr Tahsin has numerous degrees from studying and practising in America and the UK as well as being an active member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons and the European Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.

He is passionate about his work and knows firsthand how much difference a hair transplant can have on someone’s life.

“I went through hair loss myself and some of the surgery I had was unsuccessful, so I understand why it is so important to go to the right person. I lost a lot of time, money and health by going to a bad surgeon,” he says.

“I don’t want my patients to suffer the way I did; I want to give them the best treatment available. That’s why I studied so hard, got qualified and bought the best equipment; to try to give the best possible service.”

Hair transplantation moves individual hair follicles from a part of the body called the ‘donor site’ to bald or balding part of the body known as the ‘recipient site’. In this minimally invasive procedure, grafts containing hair follicles that are genetically resistant to balding are transplanted to the bald scalp. It can also be used to restore eyelashes, eyebrows, beard hair, chest hair and to fill in scars caused by accidents or surgery.

Donor hair can be harvested two different ways: Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) or Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).

Dr Tahsin has been a surgeon for 40 years. As a result of his curious nature and thirst for knowledge, during the first 25 years he switched from one specialty to another. He was ready to retire but changed his mind after he was given a scholarship to Harvard, US, which saw him shift his focus to hair restoration.

“After successfully running a clinic in Dubai, I opened two clinics in 2007, one in Saudi and one in Bahrain,” Dr Tahsin explains. “People used to be embarrassed and wouldn’t talk publically about getting a hair transplant but, over the years, the stigma around it has gone. Now people talk about it openly because they’re so happy with the results.”

Dr Tahsin believes that hair restoration surgery has a profound and life-changing impact on his patients.

“As a surgeon I don’t just change what’s on the head, I change what’s in the head. After the procedure, I’ve noticed that patients’ self-esteem increases remarkably,” he says.

“I’ve been told by different patients it was the happiest day of their life when they decided to go through this surgery because the result is permanent.” And the finality of the procedure is an area that Dr Tahsin urges people to be aware of.

“This is an important decision. If you go to a good doctor, you get a permanent good result, and if you go to a bad doctor, you get a permanent bad result.

Be sure to research the doctor’s qualifications and be careful.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

We have a complete system for hair loss treatment.

1. Low Level Laser Light therapy 2. Al Athmad 3. Mesotherapy 4. Keratin fibers to hide baldness in half a minute 5. Platelet Rich Plasma - -extract natural growth hormones from the blood.

6. Hair transplant with FUE technique without surgery and pain performed by a certified American board surgeon locally without the need to travel abroad.

bystander

Classic Car Show The American Eagles group in Bahrain held a display of classic cars in the parking area of The K Hotel.

Hassan

Ali

Volker, Gina, Eva, Cary & Hussain

Hamad

Abdulla & Faizal Hussain

The American Eagles group

x 94

Ahmed & Saad

Mohammed

Farrell International Co. W.L.L.

German Skin Care Centre SKIN CARE MADE IN GERMANY over 10 years in Bahrain, over 10 years in Bahrain, over 10

Problem: Acne, scars, wrinkle, pigmentation, ageing, large pores, stretch marks, cellulite, fat reduction, body forming, permanent hair removal, spider veins, tired eyes/legs, …

Your smile can change the world Call for a

FREE consultation

During MAY upto 30% discount on all dental services

Method: Microdermabrasio, Mesotherapy, Body forming, Cavitation, Lymphatic, Fat-Away-Method, Fruit Acid, Radiofrequency, High frequency, Ultrasonic, IPL, LED, Infrared light, dermaceutical tailor made Crème “For Me” Crèmes free of preservation, emulsifiers, mineral oils, paraben, perfume, alcohol

www.beauty-manama.com

 177 22 696 68 May 2015

1776 0666 www.almansooridental.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

cosmetictreatments CERAM DENTAL

Lots to Smile About

Dr. Haider Alfayadh

Your smile is a beautiful thing and keeping your teeth in top condition is a key factor to a winning grin.

Advances in dentistry have reached a level that makes dental implant treatment to replace

www.bahrainthismonth.com

missing teeth a safe and routine procedure.

Dr. Haider Alfayadh, Ceram Dental, says the risks involved in the procedure are even less than those involved with a simple tooth extraction.

Still, when a dentist mentions dental implants, many people assume it’s going to be a painful

and expensive procedure — yet that is not necessarily the case, according to Dr. Haider.

“Thanks to advances in the industry we can now insert an implant in around 15 minutes,” he explains. “Ceram Dental Centre uses immediate loading, a procedure that makes the process as quick and painless as possible.

Don’t fear the procedure, its easier than extraction and most people don’t feel much pain after the operation.”

Specially designed dental implants can be placed into position immediately after tooth extraction and can form units with other type of implants, or with other teeth that allow it.

The result is a stable construction, which can be safely loaded immediately by Ceram’s expert dentists.

Great care is taken prior to the procedure. Dr. Haider says: “We put patients under a regime of antibiotics one day before the operation and two hours before we start. Of course, before the implant is inserted we clean the teeth one week before in order to be sure the implant will be successful.”

Ceram Dental Centre offers a range of services to help you feel more confident about your smile.

Call 17 131-123.

May 2015 69

cosmetictreatments MARAFIE CLINIC

Love The Skin You’re In As your body’s largest organ, your skin is vitally important and proper skin care is not only about looking good, it’s about staying healthy.

When it comes to caring for patients, Marafie Clinic stands head and shoulders above other cosmetic centres in Bahrain thanks to Dr Hannane Marafie’s warm and hands-on approach.

“For us, a patient is a human being first, not just a customer. We take special interest in every patient because every case is unique.

Similarly, our staff members are trained to be attentive healers, who help patients relax with their kindness and gentle attention,” she says.

Marafie Clinic treats all manner of skin diseases with modern equipment and the latest technology. The clinic provides laser treatment for pigmentation, hair removal, broken veins and wrinkles. It offers mesotherapy for treating hair loss, cellulite and wrinkles.

Following the success of her Sanabis clinic, she opened the Busaiteen branch, which has been popular among GCC patients. With the

70 May 2015

Dr Hannane Marafie

wellbeing of her patients foremost on her mind, Dr Marafie goes to great lengths to ensure that they experience painless treatment.

“Our Botox injections are administered with microneedles, causing minimum sensation.

We’re the only clinic in Bahrain to offer

mesotherapy without injections. Our resurfacing and laser treatments are entirely painless. We want the patient to go home happy, without suffering,” she says.

Call 17 585-373 or 17 333-071.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

CERAM DENTAL

A Hollywood Smile Ceram Dental is leading the charge when it comes to aesthetic dentistry — a practical way to improve appearances and enhance a person’s smile and facial characteristics.

Nowadays, Hollywood actors and ordinary people are more aware of the impact their teeth have on their image, self-esteem and confidence. They became conscious that the size, colour, position and proportion of their teeth are very important to create facial harmony, which is directly related to beauty.

A beautiful smile is a complex process realised by working facial muscles and affected by many factor’s related to balance the shape of the face, lips and teeth.

The muscles we use to smile lift the face, making a person appear younger. Don’t go for a face lift, just try smiling your way through the day — you’ll look younger and feel better.

If a person suffers from misaligned, discoloured teeth, broken teeth, gummy smile or disproportional facial structures like lips, nose or eyes then it will affect the harmony and the face will look unbalanced.

Fortunately, help is at hand from Ceram Dental Center, with all the cosmetic and implant treatments performed by Dr Haider Alfayyadh. By taking the entire face into consideration and shaping each individual tooth, either with bonding or applying lumineers, veneers, teeth whitening, laser treatments or crowns, aesthetic dentists are able to restore your face to its ideal proportions.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Modern cosmetic dentistry treatment like crowns, bridges and veneers are about much more than living teeth and making them look “beautiful” by using a smile design, it’s about affecting the overall impression of the face and teeth and highlighting the natural harmony of the face to bring the beauty of it.

Call 17 131-123.

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bystander

Porsche Cayenne GTS Launch Behbehani Bros launched the new Cayenne GTS alongside the new entry-level Cayenne at the Porsche Centre Bahrain.

The Porsche Team

Colin

Neil & Craig

Hamed, Randa & Taher

Anja

Kristian

Renault Symbol Launch YK Almoayyed & Sons launched the new Renault Symbol at City Centre Bahrain.

Management and staff with the new car

Farouk Almoayyed

72 May 2015

Prabhudev & Abishek

Alok

Salman & Mirna

Alyanah & Huwada

www.bahrainthismonth.com

cosmetictreatments Dr Pierre Clero

CLERO STEM CELL CENTER – CSCC

Plastic Surgery Makes Perfect The aesthetic benefits of cosmetic surgery are easy to spot, but the internal and emotional benefits are often more profound.

Dr Pierre Clero, president of the International Board of Regenerative Medicine and Bio-Cosmetic Surgery, consultant plastic surgeon at King Abdullah Medical Centre Bahrain, not only works on improving your looks, but your health and self-confidence too.

Bio-cosmetic surgery is a practice that involves using stem cells for cosmetic surgery as well as treating different autoimmune and degenerative diseases. Dr Pierre says that there are misconceptions about the use of stem cells and aims to shed light on the treatment.

“Some people think stem cells only come from embryos, but this is untrue. We can take them from a patient’s own fat,” he says. “We extract them using liposuction then inject them into the afflicted area of the body or in the blood flow.

“I want to let people know where stem cells come from — the adipose tissue of the patient himself, it is called autologous. What they are used for is actually a constant discovery, for now there are more than 60 diseases, mostly auto-immune and degenerative diseases.

“I have been involved in research in this fascinating field for more than

10 years and I am very passionate about it as I think it is a new paradigm in medicine.

According to Dr Pierre, performing a really good liposuction is still one of the mostchallenging procedures. “It’s not just about removing the fat,” he explains. “You have to be like Michelangelo and sculpt the right shape, you need artistic vision and you have to anticipate how the body will react afterwards.

“I’ve been a surgeon for more than 30 years and the best part of my job is when a patient tells me I’ve changed their life for the better, whether aesthetically or internally.”

Visit www.cleroclinic.com - istemcells101.com seagulllongevitycenter.com

Dr. Pierre R. Clero Md. PLASTIC SURGEON CONSULTANT

President of the International Board of Regenerative Medicine and Bio-Cosmetic Surgery BAHRAIN - DOHA - LOS ANGELES - LAS VEGAS

www.bahrainthismonth.com

UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CITY ZINJ MANAMA BAHRAIN +97336197919 www.cleroclinic.com

May 2015 73

bystander

Filiz, Aynur & Sule

Children’s Day An activity day for youngsters was held at the Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park to mark Turkey’s Children’s Day. Kids had the opportunity to interact and cycle alongside Gurkan Genc, who is attempting to set a Guinness World Record for travelling around the world on his bicycle.

Kids enjoy the day

Cengiz & Cengiz

Cansu & Mustafa

Sertan & Olga

Aleyna, Murat & Kayhan

Yousif & Gonja

Sebahat, Gurkan, Metin & Osman

Karthik, Bharathi & Randa

Prize-Giving Ceremony The Children’s Place awarded six youngsters who won the Little Masters Art Competition, at Seef Mall Muharraq.

Sanvi, Parthi, Abigail, Jasper, Maram & Leena

The Children’s Place staff

74 May 2015

Raymond, Ruth, Jasper & Jewel

Ahmed Al Ansari & Sunil

Maram & Ranim

Madhvi, Disha & Dilip

www.bahrainthismonth.com

kidsinthekingdom

Kids in the Kingdom THE CHILDREN’S PLACE America’s number one speciality store for kids, in Seef Mall, offers on-trend and colourful fashion designed specifically for children aged between 0 to 14 years. Co-ordinated outfits create head-to-toe looks for boys and girls at a price that mums love! Offering everything from casual basics to comfortable dress wear there’s something to suit every style and taste.

ACTIVITIES SOCCER STARS, THE SPANISH FOOTBALL ACADEMY Based in Hamala in a sports complex offering football as well as swimming and taekwondo, this is the newest football academy in Bahrain.

It has European management, and a head coach from Spain who has an extensive footballing background. The main objective is to teach kids, aged two to 16-years, core values such as team spirit, respect for others and competitiveness while providing modern professional training to learn the basic and most successful football techniques from Europe. At the end of the season, students have the chance to travel and play in Spain.

TALK, PLAY & GROW This children’s activity and early intervention centre aims to offer an environment where kids can learn, explore create and grow. Services range from afternoon activities such as playgroups, ballet, sensory play and movie nights to morning playgroups and early intervention programmes that aim to support and develop children’s communication and language skills.

PINGU’S ENGLISH This outlet in Seef Mall offers fun and effective English language learning programmes for three-eight year-olds based on the loveable Pingu penguin character. Developed by the world renowned Linguaphone Group and endorsed by Cambridge University, this innovative approach to teaching English promises to develop confident spoken English www.bahrainthismonth.com

amongst its young learners. As well as the English courses, there are fun play sessions and birthday parties with Pingu.

STUDIO CERAMICS A fun and vibrant creative arts studio in Seef Mall specialising in ceramic painting and wet clay moulding as well as many other artistic activities for kids and adults. With a fantastic birthday party room and also a mobile arts studio they can offer activities for all ages at any event or party, either at the studio or at your home or office.

LITTLE PRINCESS The ultimate day out for little girls where they can become a princess for a day with fairytale clothes and accessories, lots of fun games and activities to join in and even a spa where your own little princess can get her hair and nails done or go for the full Royal make-over. Located in Seef Mall, Little Princess also caters for birthdays, Eid parties and mother and baby showers making sure everyone has an unforgettable day.

JASHANMAL This brand’s bookstores in City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall are a veritable paradise for young readers with thousands of titles on almost every subject imaginable for kids of any age. Books are in both English and Arabic and there is also a range of other products such as Kipling bags, ideal for toting all your youngster’s school supplies.

DINING CHILI’S Dinner with the kids is as easy as ABC with the special Chili’s Pepper Pals kids menu. The menu lays out a variety of nutritious choices for young guests with a catchy design and an easy, three-step ordering process: A — Select one of nine entrees, including three new selections; B — choose one of four different side items; C – pick a drink. Chili’s branches can be found across the island and some, such as City Centre Bahrain, has special activities such as face painting on Fridays.

SHOPPING

PAPA JOHN’S One of the island’s favourite pizzerias, with branches across the Kingdom, Papa John’s has a kids’ menu featuring either a happy face pizza or various other down-sized options and the brand also offers pizza making classes and complete birthday packages tailored to suit all ages, tastes and budgets.

THINGS TO DO From its humble beginnings 40 years ago, Things To Do has grown to become the region’s largest retailer of art and craft supplies. From sewing to painting, model construction sets to painting by numbers, you will find it at the Budaiya Highway store. And if your youngster is into horses, Things To Do also has a whole range of gear for budding equestrians from clothing to grooming materials and more.

ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL The emphasis here is on good food with the new Mediterranean Kids’ Menu on which all items are made with the freshest, highest quality ingredients. Romano’s mac and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs and grilled chicken and Broccoli and on the menu with your choice of drink and an ice cream included. Romano’s, at American Alley, Juffair, and Bahrain International Airport, also offers kids’ pizza making classes.

May 2015 75

kidsinthekingdom LITTLE PRINCESS

The Royal Treatment Unique in Bahrain, this special place offers every little girl the chance to be treated like royalty.

76 May 2015

Since its launch in 2011, Little Princess in Seef Mall has gained a loyal following with its magical play rooms which give little girls the opportunity to be a princess for the day.

The venue has three unique play spaces: In the Fashion area you will find everything you need to build the perfect princess outfit: from dresses and shoes to crowns, wands and rings to necklaces and hair accessories; the Royal Spa area is where the magical transformation happens with hair cutting and styling services as well as manicures and pedicures, facials and a heavenly hand and foot massage; the third area is made up of two party rooms beautifully decorated in sumptuous Louis XIV style.

The party rooms are used for special events such as storytelling and Halloween and, of course, birthdays when the whole focus is on the little princess. The

birthday girl sits on a throne at the head of the table wearing her special birthday sash. A real life princess hosts the party and the games, helps the birthday girl to greet her guests and makes sure that she and her friends are having a wonderful time.

Little Princess caters to girls from birth to 13 years and there’s a great range of goodies from bling rings to dresses from 500fils to BD49 to make every girl feel special. Spa treatments range from BD2 up to BD78 for the Royal Princess make-over.

There’s a special birthday party promotion running throughout May and June. Book your party during May and get a BD35 discount on the Royal Birthday Package with the cake and beverage tables included at no additional cost — a saving of BD75!

Call 17 564-585.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

kidsinthekingdom

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Playing it Safe Kids love brightly coloured, fun playground fittings and with this equipment, parents can be sure their little ones are safe as well as happy.

78 May 2015

Swedish brand Hags has a wide range of play and sports equipment to suit all ages and, when creating the pieces, the company’s designers are careful to take in every important aspect making sure the range is not only highly attractive to children with its bright colours and themes but is also durable and, above all, safe.

There is a world of difference between a challenge and a danger. While dangers hold hazards children can rarely foresee, challenges encourage them to extend their range of skills which is evident in apparatus such as rope climbing grids and swings.

Hags Fantasy units are designed with themes such as boats, space, jungles and butterflies to excite young imaginations and the range has the same sturdy and durable construction as other products in the brand’s popular Uniplay family.

All units follow the individual theme across posts, roofs, floors, walls and screens which are designed to convey these themes using colour combinations and decorative elements.

Hags was founded in 1948 and quality has always been a guiding principle with products certified according to ISO 9001:2008, a quality management system that provides a framework for continual improvement and objective measurement.

The European standard for playground equipment, EN 1176-1177, is the safety standard the brand adopts

and all products are also approved by the German Technischer Uberwachungs-Verein (TUV) which has the most extensive and advanced testing and approval procedures in the world.

Analyses of serious playground incidents show that most accidents occur on equipment that has not been tested for safety which is why product development at Hags is based on international research and safety standards. The company uses top-quality materials and is confident in offering 10-year warranties.

Besides equipment Hags keeps parents happy too with a wide range of furniture, grills, litter bins, planter boxes, bicycle stands and fences to complete your outdoor project.

Hags products are distributed in the Kingdom by Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro.

Call 39 466-111. www.bahrainthismonth.com

shoppingmallsfeature

Shop Till You Drop!

APPLE SHARMA Veni vidi Visa (I came, I saw, I shopped)! If you resemble this remark, then carry on reading as we give you a teaser of what’s going on in the leading shopping malls on the island!

“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping” - Bo Derek.

That’s exactly what we’re talking about — shopping galore! With summer in full bloom and people needing respite from the sweltering heat, going to a shopping mall seems like the perfect choice to spend an afternoon. With a plethora of malls dotted around the island, it’s time to go bargain hunting and get your hands on some cool summer promotions. We have a round up of a few prominent malls and all they have to offer.

MODA Mall

www.bahrainthismonth.com

LUXURY MODA Mall If you’re looking for something exclusive, head down to MODA Mall, located in the Bahrain World Trade Centre.

With the largest portfolio of luxury brands in the Kingdom under one roof, it’s the perfect destination for fashion lovers who are looking for something unique every season, be it fashion, jewellery or dining.

Some of the power retailers include Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani, Dior, Versace, Gucci, Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Chopard and Bulgari. Indulge in fine food at Maki, Abd El Wahab, BiCE or Shai Latte. Recently opened outlets include Boucheron, Abdul Samad Al Qurashi, IWC, Officine Panerai, Corneliani, Harry’s Of London and Cheaney, Hublot, Dar Al Shakar Tailoring, House of Arabia, Breitling and more. Don’t miss out on the Ramadan Shop and Win promotion during June and July!

Call 17 535-140.

Al Aali Shopping Complex Indulge in some high-end shopping and relaxation with the shopping complex’s unique selection of stores and restaurants including Coach, Jimmy Choo, Missoni Home, Jashanmal, The One, Seventh Heaven, Trousseau, Café Lilou and Lumee, to name a few.

The mall recently opened Guin Abayat Couture, Nomination Italy, Filicori Zecchini Café and Victory Route 88. More stores such as Mia Moon, Ramah Jewellers, Hevea Café and Cavalli Caffè are scheduled to open soon. Stay tuned for the mall’s upcoming summer promotions and offers.

Call 17 581-000.

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shoppingmallsfeature NEW IN TOWN Seef Mall Muharraq Visit the Kingdom’s first waterfront destination, Seef Mall Muharraq, and enjoy a day of shopping and entertainment spread over 72,000sq/m. The recently opened mall is anchored by a Geant Hypermarket alongside 132 stores, a 14-theatre Cineplex, a food court, restaurants and a family entertainment centre, Magic Island. The mall features retail outlets representing both local and international brands including Wool House, Steve Madden, A La Mode, Sketchers, Aldo Accessories and more. It also has a range of restaurants and cafés such as Columbus Café, Kosebasi, TGI Friday’s and more. It’s the perfect place to spend time with your family whilst enjoying the waterfront view.

Call 77 911-116.

Enma Mall The largest shopping centre in the Riffa area, Enma Mall spans over 27,000sq/m of contemporary retail space. The mall caters to the entire family and has an exciting selection of brands such as Sharaf DG, Geant Supermarket, RedTag, F&F Fashion, Coral Shoes, Twenty4, Moods Furniture and more. It also offers a great range of food and beverage options including a large food court, Le Chocolat, Mado Café, Tony Roma’s and Segafredo, to name a few. Exciting new additions will see the opening of Magic Planet this summer as well as an international furniture and interiors brand.

Follow the mall’s social media for upcoming events and campaigns, including Ramadan and Eid activities and the mall’s official grand opening.

Call 17 606-060.

Seef Mall Muharraq

POPULAR City Centre Bahrain The largest shopping, leisure and entertainment destination in the Kingdom, City Centre Bahrain attracts more than 13.5 million visitors annually.

Spread across more than 158,000sq/m of retail space, the mall offers an international mix of more than 340 exclusive brands including 60 dining outlets, with major stores such as the Kingdom’s largest Carrefour hypermarket, Saks Fifth Avenue, Debenhams, Centrepoint, Pottery Barn and Home Centre.

It also offers excellent family leisure including Wahooo!

Waterpark — the Middle East’s first and largest indooroutdoor waterpark, a 20-screen Cineco cinema and a Magic Planet. The mall is also adjoined by two premium hotels, the 5-star Westin Hotel City Centre Bahrain and Le Meridien Hotel.

As the mall is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the City Centre brand, operator Majid Al Futtaim is hosting year-long events, promotions, activities, community initiatives and instant rewards for shoppers on the 20th of each month, for the rest of the year.

The lucky winner of the ultimate super car, a brand new 2015 Lamborghini Huracan, and details of special themed 80 May 2015

activities and entertainment for the whole family to celebrate the Holy Month will be announced soon. The mall will also unveil a new state-of-the art technology system to enhance the visitors’ experience.

Call 17 177-771.

FAMILY Bahrain Mall The Bahrain Mall has always branded itself as ‘The Family Mall’. Its convenient location, easy access, hassle-free parking and day-to-day store selection makes for an effortless shopping experience. Some of the popular retailers include Geant Hypermarket, The Home Store, Redtag and Twenty 4. It is also home to recently opened Tavola and Roulette Fashion, with plans of opening a new post office in July. The mall will hold its anniversary celebrations starting from this month until June and is planning an exciting Ramadan/Summer campaign.

Call 17 558-101. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The mall offers more than 150 outlets

Enjoy the mall’s hospitality at its various cafés

MODA MALL

A Shopping Pleasure If you’re seeking the finer things in life, be it shopping or dining, look no further than one of the Kingdom’s most luxurious shopping malls.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Located in the iconic landmark Bahrain World Trade Centre, MODA Mall is a shopping and dining experience like no other in the country. With 150 outlets spanning over 16,500sq/m, MODA Mall is every shopaholic’s dream come true!

Whether you’re meeting friends for a coffee or choosing a special gift for your loved ones, from a must-have handbag or a once in a lifetime jewellery set, shoppers and visitors can find something for every occasion.

MODA Mall offers accessible exclusivity, with over 80 fashion labels including Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani, Dior, Fendi, Versace, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Ermenegildo Zegna, Hermés, Kenzo Women and Al Othman showcasing haute couture and ready-towear offerings.

Fashion defies age and younger fashion lovers can have their pick of luxury brands such as Burberry, Gucci, Missoni, Dolce & Gabbana and Juicy Couture.

The mall also hosts various events and exhibitions at its two beautiful domes – the Fashion and Jewellery Courts.

The dazzling Jewellery Court is home to the most stunning collections from some of the world’s leading craftsmen. The mall has the largest fine jewellery portfolio found in any one venue in the Kingdom, with more than 50 brands on offer including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Piaget, Chopard, Hublot, Officine Panerai, De Beers and more.

Complementing the retail offering is a choice of tempting fine dining restaurants, from Italian at BiCE and Japanese fusion at Maki, to Middle Eastern cuisine at Abd El Wahab. You can also relax with friends in a range of cafés, including Caribou and Shai

Latte in the Fashion Court and Dining Courtyard, with a unique vertical garden adding a horticultural element to your meal.

Designed by international experts, Atkins, MODA Mall’s elegant atmosphere, world-class architecture, cool marble interiors and glass domes make shopping and dining an unrivalled pleasure. In addition, a host of other amenities including valet parking service, free wi-fi, beauty salon, children’s soft play area, banks, a five-star hotel, a fitness centre, a mosque and a convenience store provides shoppers and visitors with a unique experience.

MODA Mall is unveiling its new brand campaign this month, where it’s refreshing its brand identity with a new website and the new summer collection. The campaign’s tagline ‘For life’s extra special moments’ says it all — that MODA Mall is there in those moments, be it a wedding or a newborn baby, to make them truly special!

Call 17 535-140 or visit www.modabahrain.com.

MODA mall’s dazzling Jewellery Court

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shoppingmallsfeature

YATEEM CENTRE

The Souq Flavour

Located close to the heart of Bab Al Bahrain souq is the country’s oldest commercial centre. Even with various new malls sprouting, this little gem is still standing strong.

Everybody visits the souq at some point, for some it’s a chance to revisit old favourites and for others the excitement of exploring or seeing a more traditional part of Bahrain.

Whether as a tourist, short-term resident or a home-grown native, there’s always something different to be found, a new aspect to discover and enjoy.

A souq trip is never complete without dropping into one of Bahrain’s first air-conditioned commercial offerings, the Yateem Centre. This stalwart has evolved from being Bahrain’s only arcade, to an intimate, small and friendly mall where welcoming shopkeepers are always ready to help with whatever it may be you are looking for.

It’s interesting to see the range of shops that this small centre has, mixing top quality stores with day-to-day ones. There is everything from beautiful pearls and jewellery to gold-thread jelabiya and quality Italian lingerie.

Shopping is usually women’s forte and hence there is no surprise to see the number and range of boutiques, ready to be explored.

Historically known for its gents’ outfitters, the Yateem Centre still keeps long-term customers returning for more. The ease and convenience of parking in the basement and nipping upstairs ensures that even the laziest of men are happy to visit. The quality and range of clothes ensures that everybody is catered for, with old favourites ably supported by modern newcomers.

An unexpected facet of the Yateem Centre is the range of sportswear.

From one of the oldest sports shops in Bahrain, to a branded factory outlet, to the first Middle East outlet of a major Chinese manufacturer as well as other shops which made the addition of a new gym seem almost compulsory. Customers can shop for everything sporty and also get their favourite sports team names and logos embroidered.

So, the next time you take a trip to the souq, don’t forget to visit the Yateem Centre.

Call 17 215-615.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

UNLEASHING A MONSTER CHARLIE HOLDING This pick-up delivers more than just power and capability; it delivers an unforgettable driving experience.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 86 THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS 88 A REASSURING RIDE

Ford F150

T

he 2015 Ford F-150 is a vehicle that needs no introduction, but for the sake of quality journalism I guess I’ll have to try. Before the popularisation of SUVs, pick-ups were the ride of choice for people looking to conquer difficult, off-road terrain, and these cargo-hauling wonders can still do it today.

In the past, pick-ups were loud, cramped and cumbersome but modern incarnations offer drivers much more. Four doors and seating for five passengers is commonplace and you’d be amazed at how much tech you can fit into a vehicle this size.

Its exterior is big, mean, aggressive and surprisingly beautiful, and that’s just the front grille. The long and sturdy body is the perfect combination of finesse and functionality and, obviously, there is an abundance of storage space at the rear. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The F150 is packed with features like parking sensors, a rearview camera (handy when trying to fit this huge pick-up into a regular-sized parking space), Bluetooth and cruise control.

It may not look like it, but this bulking beast is lighter than ever thanks to the high-strength, military-grade aluminium alloy body. However, just because it weighs less, it doesn’t mean it can tow less; pound for pound this is probably the most capable towing pick-up on the market today.

In my opinion, this is also the biggest truck you can drive without venturing into industrial machinery or military vehicles.

Under the bonnet of the model I drove was a powerful 385bhp five-litre V8 that offers more than enough oomph to get this beast moving.

And, move it does. A gentle tap on the accelerator and you’re away, barreling along

like a cannon ball.

The 2015 F-150 is a pick-up with character in abundance and, despite its intimidating size, it handles remarkably well, even around corners.

While driving along the highway the ride was smooth and comfortable, however, this model comes into its own off-road.

I took a spin around the island and found a suitable place to test its capabilities and it did not disappoint; inclines, rocky terrain and wet sand were all met with confidence. Over the years, I’ve driven more than my fair share of luxury SUVs and I can honestly say the F150 is on par with the vast majority of them.

If you’re looking for a pick-up with panache, this could be the model for you.

Call 17 737-373 or visit Almoayyed Motors showroom in Sitra.

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motoring

AL HADDAD MOTORS

Great Deals on Certified Pre-Owned Cars Al Haddad Motors, the Kingdom’s dealer for Mercedes-Benz, is offering special deals on a number of pre-owned vehicles.

84 May 2015

Customers are being urged to take advantage of limited-time offers on the iconic German marque’s ProvenExclusivity Certified Pre-Owned MercedesBenz range.

As the dealership continues to sell top-of-the-line luxury vehicles — like the new AMG GT — it is also offering special deals on certified pre-owned cars.

With more than a decade of experience in the industry under his belt, the new pre-owned showroom manager, Taha Hussain, says that each and every customer receives the utmost care and attention.

“What I would really like to change is the public’s perception – almost nobody knows that Al Haddad Motors has a used car range, let alone a fantastic ProvenExclusivity programme,” he explains. “I would like to further enhance the brand image and maintain competitive pricing.”

While certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz models are widely considered among the best luxury car deals in the Kingdom, the limited offer at Al Haddad Motors truly enhances the value of these models, the company says.

Customers who opt for one of the ProvenExclusivity cars will get the same attention and care afforded to customers who are buying a new car. Every

Mercedes-Benz in the programme must pass rigorous safety, mechanical, electrical and history checks by factory trained technicians before being awarded a 12 months’ warranty, 24hrs roadside assistance (available on selected vehicles) and full service history.

For the sake of customer’s peace of mind, only Mercedes-Benz dealerships with a dedicated space for showcasing ProvenExclusivity cars are certified to display the vehicles under the brand’s name. So, rest assured, each car meets the brand’s high standards.

Some of the models included in the ProvenExclusivity range include 2013-2014 C-Class, SLK-Class and E-Class cars. In the luxury utility segment, the CLS-Class is included in the limitedtime offer.

All branded pre-owned vehicles are sold with a 12-months warranty, and a range of financial service options are also available. Wherever possible, ceritifed salespeople will offer convenient financing options to support your purchase.

Al Haddad Motors is open Saturday to Thursday from 8am to 7.30pm.

Follow them on Instagram @alhaddadmotors, Twitter @MercedesBenzBAH and Facebook. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Always restless.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA 250.

Adventurous spirits need a car to match. This new versatile cross-over always offers a fresh perspective. Prepare to take on your city.

MercedesBenzBahrain MercedesBenzBah AlHaddadMotors

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

motoring

Nissan Juke

Y.K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

The Best of Both Worlds This compact crossover has been revamped for 2015 and, despite some refreshing changes, it’s still instantly recognisable.

86 May 2015

Since its debut in 2000, the Nissan Juke has made quite an impression with drivers around the world thanks to its distinctive design and list of standard features.

Nissan has made a number of revisions to the popular sub-compact crossover to enable it to stay ahead of the pack in a booming segment.

In terms of the design, the 2015 model boasts a new grille and enlarged lower air intake, while the rear fascia has been redesigned with a bold new bumper, mesh trim, and new LED taillights.

The interior is stylish with a number of features including Nissan’s Connect infotainment system.

There are also a number of safety features and Nissan’s Safety Shield package augments the safety of both, driver and passengers.

Paul Baker, general manager Nissan, says, “This amazing compact crossover delivers on all levels — aggressive muscular lines, luxurious and sporty interiors that can be customised, enhanced safety features and a driving experience that will thrill. And

with the look of a two-door sports car and the function of a four-door, the Nissan Juke is the best of both worlds.”

The Juke is powered by a choice of a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine or a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the latter being direct injection.

Three driving modes — normal, sport and eco — are available, along with a new audio system, the Japanese automaker’s latest-generation NissanConnect connectivity technology.

Maximum engine power for S & SL Grade is 86(117) kW at 6000rpm with 158Nm of torque. The SL Turbo grade has maximum engine power of 140(190) kWat 5600rpm with 240Nm of torque.

Simply put, this is a ride to be reckoned with. Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, the dealer for Nissan in the Kingdom, is offering this stylish model for a starting price of BD6,995.

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

motoring

Suzuki Ciaz

MOHAMMED JALAL & SONS

A Reassuring Ride CHARLIE HOLDING When something seems too good to be true, it usually is. However, there is always an exception to the rule and, in this case, it’s the Suzuki Ciaz.

88 May 2015

The sturdy, no-nonsense sedan not only looks ‘the business’, it offers impressive fuel economy and a surprisingly solid drive.

Its exterior is smooth and boasts aerodynamic curves that give it an alluring aesthetic. Inside, the ergonomically designed cabin is simple and easy to navigate. I was really impressed with the clear instrument panel too.

With ample legroom and headroom in both the front and the rear, the driver and passengers are sitting comfortably. The Ciaz doesn’t lack storage space either; there are plenty of compartments to keep your shades and bottled water and there is a roomy boot too.

In terms of infotainment, the model I drove had a CD player, USB connection and Bluetooth. Admittedly it’s not the most technologically advanced car on the market, but the no-nonsense approach helps you to focus on what’s really important, the drive.

The sedan features a four-cylinder 1400cc engine that provides more than enough power to ensure you get where you’re going on time and in style. The gear

changes were swift and smooth, which makes for a more enjoyable drive.

I took the Ciaz for a spin around the island to put it through its paces and it did not disappoint. Highway driving is a smooth and enjoyable affair in this model.

It’s nimble enough to overtake and has enough presence to make an impression on other drivers.

It really came into its own when navigating the tight, twisting alleyways of Adliya. The steering is reasonably responsive, which makes manoeuvring less strenuous — a welcome feature when trying to fit through some narrow spaces.

Thanks to the manageable size of the body, parking is an absolute doddle. The importance of this cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to trying to find a space in congested Manama.

Perhaps the best thing about this mode is the price.

Starting from BD4,850 with free insurance for five years, it proves you don’t need to break the bank to afford a cool and comfortable ride.

Call 17 707-070 or 17 252-606.showroom in Sitra. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Loai & Sari

Launch of Hunkemoller

Puneet Singh’s Gathering

Hunkemoller opened its second store in Bahrain at The Centre in Nuwaidrat.

Former Bahrain residents, Puneet and Neeta Singh reunited with close friends at Lanterns Restaurant, Adliya during their visit to the Kingdom.

Judith Jawad cuts the opening ribbon

Neeta & Puneet

Alison, Marise & Hilary

Steve, Mudreka & Vijay

Kristine, Sophia, Ameera & Mohabat

Haseen & Farheen

Puneet, Shafeeka & Lloyd

Taral, Akeel & Ameena

Shafika, Puneet & Lloyd

Sari, Puneet & Neeta

Hady

Sophia, Judith & Fernanda

Joe & George

The new store

90 May 2015

Anju & Rajeev

Barbara & George

Rajiv, Kishore, Anita & Lalit

George & Sharaf

Richard & Sabrina

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring EURO MOTORS

More Power with Distinctive Design The Kingdom’s petrolheads are in for a treat this month with the arrival of the new BMW X5M and BMW X6M models.

BMW X5M

BMW X6M

www.bahrainthismonth.com

These exceptionally powerful M versions of the new X5 and X6 are stronger, more powerful and faster than ever. With an impressive revamp both inside and out, these models are sure to make a lasting impression with drivers and enthusiasts.

Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors, says: “This is an exciting time for our customers as we are bringing some truly premium and performance-focused vehicles to the Kingdom. The BMW X6M and the X5M set the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics in the high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) segments, and for this reason, we are sure they will make a huge mark on the Bahraini automotive market.”

So, the overall design has taken a step into the future, but what about under the bonnet you ask?

Well, both models pack plenty of punch with the latest-generation 4.4-litre V8 engine, which uses M TwinPower Turbo technology to push torque and output to even higher performance levels.

Boasting a pair of TwinScroll turbochargers, crossbank exhaust manifolds, VALVETRONIC and High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, the 4.4-litre V8 produces maximum output of 575bhp. From 0 to 100 kmph in 4.2 seconds through the standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, top speed is limited to 250kmph. At the same time, the fuel consumption and CO2 levels of both models has been reduced by 20 per cent.

Cutting a low-slung figure on the road, mixed tyres showcase the all-new BMW X5M and X6M’s sporty track width, while an interior combining sporty features, exclusive materials and impressive workmanship complement their dynamic exterior.

The M instrument cluster, M leather steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles and M gearshift lever — which works in the same way as the familiar M Double Clutch Transmission — are complemented by electrically operated M sports seats for the driver and front passenger.

Customers can also enjoy further customisation with BMW Individual’s range of exclusive paint finishes like the BMW Individual Azurte Black metallic and Pyrite Brown metallic. Other options from the collection include the roof liner available in Alcantara Smoke White, Alcantara Scotch dark and Alcantara Anthracite, the three interior trims; Piano Finish Black, Sen Light Brown fine wood and Ash Volcano Brown fine wood.

Call 17 750-750.

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motoring

A Racy Number For Bahrain

The Ferrari FF Cristall and, below, Wilhelm Hegger

A one-of-a-kind Bahrain edition of the new Ferrari FF was unveiled at the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra.

The stunning Ferrari FF Cristallo is one of five designed for the Gulf market, with other bespoke models being unveiled in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE and Qatar.

“Bahrain’s individual finish is named Cristallo (Crystal) with details that recall the cool, transparent lucidity of quartz,” says Ferrari Global Network Development Management head Wilhelm Hegger. “It started as a local idea to design five kinds of the FF with the logic of gemstones.

“There is a lot of history related to gemstones in Arab countries and each stone had a theme designed according to their characteristics. We showed our local partners – Euro Motors – the themes and they immediately told us that elegant crystal represents Bahrain’s buyer market.

Five sophisticated FF models were designed 92 March 2015

with a specific, bespoke concept – gemstones which represent the unique value and beauty of the Tailor Made programme.

Kuwait’s car has a topaz theme, while for the UAE it is sapphire, Qatar pearl and Saudi Arabia moonstone.

The BD176,000 FF Cristallo is powered by a 660bhp mid-front-mounted V12 engine that takes it from 0-100kmph in 3.7 seconds. It has a top speed of 335kmph and it is the latest in a programme designed to create individual cars that began in the 1950s and 1960s.

The process of designing the cars took around three to five months and the work in general required efforts from the Euro Motors team, the marque’s designers, products engineers and marketing specialists.

The Ferrari FF is perhaps the model that most lends itself to this highly personalised approach, with its versatile four-seater cabin and spacious boot providing ample scope for even the most individual Tailor Made inspiration. www.bahrainthismonth.com

gadgets This month’s gadgets are useful for the whole family, whether they are for the home, the children or kick-starting your day.

FiLIP 2 Smart Locater with Voice for Kids A wearable phone and locator for your children; the gadget allows parents to call, text and locate their child from their phone. This gives kids the freedom to be kids and parents a little extra piece of mind. Parents can set ‘safe zones’ and it also comes with an emergency button.

Tetris Lamp

Celluon Magic Cube Laser Projection Keyboard

As you can probably guess, this lamp follows the idea of the much-loved game, Tetris. Take it apart and put it together in any way you can think of. This is a gadget that’s fun, bright and a great way to add some colour to your home.

This is a very small and ultra-portable gadget that creates a full-sized projection keyboard and multi-touch mouse. The device works with virtually any Bluetooth-enabled device. Simply place your device on a flat surface, place the Magic Cube next to it, link them via Wi-Fi and then watch a keyboard appear right in front of you.

Apple Peeler

Putter Pool If you’re a bit of a golf nut but also have a thing for pool then you are going to love this.

It’s the perfect game for the family to play at home or for co-workers to play around the office. Just roll out the big green mat, Velcro the rails along the edges and unleash your competitive side.

This clever machine will effortlessly peel all of your apples for you without making any mess.

For anyone who loves to cook with and eat apples this is a must-have in your kitchen; this device makes the whole process of peeling apples so simple that you’ll never want to go back to doing it manually ever again!

Floating Cabana Lounger This inflatable seats up to six people at a time and is jam packed with loads of great features including: a built-in anchor system, a patented speed safety valve for quick inflation and deflation and even a detachable wind resistant shade top that’s made from nylon; and let’s not forget the cup holders.

SkyBell Wi-Fi Video Doorbell Version 2.0 This is a device that replaces your doorbell with a Wi-Fi camera and intercom, giving you the power to use your smart phone to see — and talk to — the person on the other side of the door.

Safety Driving Anti-Sleep Alarm This is a simple gadget that could save lives. If you have a job that involves driving early in the morning or late at night, this ear piece will give you with a warning if your head tilts forward too far in order to wake you up. Use it to avoid traffic accidents. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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music

Wale – The Album About Nothing

VERDICT: A massive success.

What’s the story?

The Album About Nothing is the fourth studio album by American rapper Wale. It features guest appearances from Jeremih, J. Cole, SZA and Usher, and serves as a continuation of Wale’s Seinfeld-themed mixtape series. Fans have applauded the album for its catchy beats, strong hooks and thought-provoking lyrics. Meanwhile, critics say it’s a perfect glimpse as to what made Seinfeld such a massive success: it’s ability to play on real-life scenarios in the driest way.

Worth a listen?

According to Billboard.com, Wale has been accused of abandoning his artistic integrity in pursuit of fame and has earned a reputation for being a whiny malcontent. During the rollout of his latest offering, The Album About Nothing, he promised a return to the essence of what initially earned him critical acclaim. This album finds Wale, with the help of Jerry Seinfeld, making good on the promise to return to his roots while covering so much ground that its title is ultimately misleading.

Shorts

Chaos and the Calm – James Bay

Muddy Wolf at Red Rocks – Joe Bonamassa

Catfish and the Bottlemen – The Balcony

If you need something to take you away from the stress of reality and into another world full of peace and serenity, James Bay is the man for you.

This English singer-songwriter brings us 12 songs swaying with emotion, soul and grit in a classy, modern twist. Keep an eye out for his name; we are certain we haven’t heard the last of him.

This double live album from blues legend Bonamassa is a faithful recreation of his tribute concerts at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre. As usual with Joe’s work; the recording of the concert is pin-sharp and demands repeated plays. This album showcases not only Bonamassa’s dexterity on the guitar but also reveals the range in his voice.

Readily described as a young garage rock band, Catfish and the Bottlemen brought out The Balcony, which has stood firmly in the charts for a smashing 28 weeks. Their relative youth is so hidden behind front man Van McCann’s weathered and assured vocals that, if it wasn’t for the (at times) crude lyrics, it would be easy to mistake the band for one slightly wiser beyond its years and with a few more albums under its belt.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games review Commitment, patience and skill will be needed for these frustratingly testing games.

Game: Child of Light Rating:**** What is it?

Child of Light is a 2D side-scrolling role-playing game inspired by the art style of Studio Ghibli. You wake up as young Aurora, who discovers herself in a strange land where all light has been stolen from the sky. You must go home but you must first return the moon, sun and stars and free the kingdom of Lemuria from Queen Umbra’s influence. The game is inspired by poetry and dark fairytales.

Graphics:

Beyond the fact that this game is visually beautiful, it features a breathtaking soundtrack and an intelligent, articulate and creative approach to storytelling. If you are willing to ignore the low difficulty level, you will enjoy one of the most honest and full-of-soul games ever. However, if challenge is what you seek, then it is better to look somewhere else.

Toukiden: Kiwami

If you have an interest in Japanese history, then you will really appreciate Toukiden’s respect and love for the heritage that drips through its game play. In the world of Toukiden, demons have hidden in the shadows with the intention of torturing all of mankind. Throughout history, warriors have been trained to dispose of the demonic threat before it could consume the world.

But, there has been an ‘awakening’, and riffs have appeared in space and time, causing places that had long disappeared from the world to resurface.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gameplay:

This feeling of warmth and sentimentality can be seen in every aspect of Child of Light, from the character portraits in the menus, to the lovingly detailed hit animations in battle. The net result is an experience that feels less like a power fantasy, and more like the cherished memory of a childhood bedtime story. Aurora’s transformation from a frightened child to the hero of her own story is framed realistically, making her journey feel deeply personal despite the broad strokes it’s painted with.

Mario Party 10

Bowser crashes the latest Mario Party, the first instalment of the series on the Wii U console. In the new Bowser party mini games, play as Bowser himself and go against four other players. Wreak havoc as Bowser while the other players strive to survive. Mario Party 10 offers three basic modes: Mario Party, Bowser Party, and Amiibo Party, each with its own unique styles of play. This particular game is much more fun when you have others to play against.

Bloodborne

You’re a lone warrior, a hunter who wakes up in a town where everyone not shuttered away has been infected by a lycanthropic disease (werewolves). The first enemies you’ll meet are the townsfolk in the early stages of the transformation. You’re on your own. People are either out to kill you or will only speak to you through closed doors.

This is not a game for the faint-hearted; Bloodborne will test your patience and willingness to work out its rhythms. Simply put, this game is about the journey, not the final destination.

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bystander bystander

websites VERDICT: Tighten, tone and drop a few pounds with a fitness video of your choice, for both men and women.

Site: www.booyafitness.com Rating: *****

Audi TT Launch Audi Bahrain launched the new Audi TT in an event held at the Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay. Models with the new car

What is it?

Transform your body and gain confidence for the summer months ahead with a website that offers you a cheap and private alternative to going to the gym. This website offers advice on nutrition, fitness and lifestyle choices from experts. It’s not simply about weight loss or toning up, this is a website that aims to keep you healthy and fit for life.

The Good

Featuring high-definition videos from boutique brands, the website offers a huge variety of fitness genres tailored to your needs and pleasure; choose from Barre to Bollywood or Boot Camp with the click of a button. You can access the videos on demand wherever you are as the site is available on mobile and tablet devices, PCs and television.

Geetan

Alex

Khalil, Sadiq & Abul Kasim

The Bad

With a one month free trial at your disposal, the only thing that could be regarded as a negative to this site is that there is a fee once the trial is up.

And this comes with three options; ‘Transform Yourself’, which is an annual fee of USD99 (BD38), ‘Shape Up Your Next Season’, a three-month payment of USD27 (BD11) and the ‘Month To Month’ offer in which you can cancel at any time for just USD9.99 (BD 4).

Gail & Tony

Maria & Christos

Greek Easter Sunday Party Chris and Nayia Poullaides held a traditional Greek Easter party with plenty of food, dancing and platesmashing at their venue.

Chris & Nayia

Maria & Selia

Savvas & Valanto

www.trunkclub.com This one is ideal for men who require a little help when it comes to their wardrobe. Answer a couple of questions about your style choices and once completed, you will be connected with a real stylist who will find you the best clothes for your size, style and preferences. And it gets better; you will have your clothing handpicked and it will be sent straight to your doorstep. You then have 10 days to try everything on, pay for what you keep and return what you don’t like for free.

www.grandst.com

Christina & Philippo

96 May 2015 96 May 2015

Angelos & Harris

Dheya

So, you have the physique and the style, now all you need are some funky gadgets. Grandst.com is the perfect place to search through some of the latest technology and equipment. The founders of the site review and approve products sent in from people across the globe to make sure every product is exceptional. All you have to do is decide what you want, pre-order and a slice of the future will be delivered straight to your doorstep. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

A Call Away

App: Viber Rating:****

If you have the travel bug and tend to be away from home more often than not, keeping in touch with family and friends can be expensive – but it doesn’t have to be.

What is it?

Connect with your loved ones across the world for free. With more than 460 million users, this app can be used to experience HD quality phone and video calls and send photo and video messages worldwide over Wi-Fi or 3G. As well as having the app for your phone, you can use it via your desktop, allowing you to video call other Viber users on any device or network in any country! Viber also syncs with your mobile device, allowing you access to your contacts, messages and call history.

The Good: Follow public chats to peek inside the conversations of celebrities, download stickers from the sticker market for messaging fun and even challenge your friends and family with the app’s addictive games.

This app is ideal to help you keep in touch and laugh with your family and friends without worrying about absurd charges.

The Bad: As with anything Internet-based, if the signal in your area isn’t quite strong enough, the connection may fail until you can find a better spot. Lack of Wi-Fi can also result in the app closing sporadically. However, if you and your receiver have great Internet connections, the only downside to this app is how much time you’ll spend stuck to your phone.

Verdict: High quality phone calls anywhere in the world … for free!

Travel list

This app is undoubtedly the easiest way to prepare yourself for your next trip. Travel List is the easiest way to get ready for your next trip. Plan your itinerary, create a packing list in an instant and you’re ready to go. Travel List makes sure you don’t leave anything behind. You can even create reminders so you don’t forget things such as charging your cameras batteries. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Skyscanner Flights Need cheap flights on the go? Join the 35 million people who are using this fast, flexible and free app to save time and money. With comprehensive cover, search millions of flights from hundreds of airlines around the world – both low-cost and scheduled to find the perfect flights for the best price. The app includes multiple handy features, one being an ‘everywhere search’, which suggests destinations around the world if you cannot decide where to go next.

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movies

Neha & Maya

VERDICT:

Film: Focus Rating: ****

Jay Sean’s F1 Party British singer and songwriter Jay Sean performed at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Seef’s nightclub venue, Ibrida during the F1 weekend.

Jay Sean

With a very stylish art direction and unique storyline, Will Smith has really done well this time.

Nawaar & Mai

Directed by: Glenn Ficarra and John Requa Starring: Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Rodrigo Santoro

The Plot:

Nicky Spurgeon (played by Will Smith) is an accomplished conman who takes an amateur con artist, Jess (Margot Robbie), under his wing. Nicky schools her in the tricks of the thievery trade, until at the mid-way point the film leaps forward three years and throws them back together in new circumstances. Needless to say, Nicky has a big job under way, and Jess proves to be a wild card in its execution.

Pramod, Anjali & Cynthia

Galina, Tiss & Amal

Worth Watching?

Thanks to its mixture of drama, comedy and action, this movie is guaranteed to keep you hooked from start to finish. The stylish and creative storyline will have you on the edge of your seat as you scratch your head trying to figure out who is taking advantage of whom.

Muneera & Ebrahim

Hana & Alex

Alexandra & Grace

SpongeBob – Sponge out of water John, Nada & Jenny

Georgie & Alex

98 May 2015

Eleanor, Smoolz & Ciana

Linda & Emily

Charlotte & Eido

The top secret Krabby Patty formula has gone missing and the team know where they must go to find it; above the shore and into the real world! A perfect film for the whole family, follow SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, Sandy and more of your favourite characters as they go on their most heroic adventure yet. This film is fast-paced, funny and needs to be seen in 3D! Also, make sure you stick around to see Squidward’s dancing in the end credits.

Ex Machina

Caleb, a 26-year-old coder at the world’s largest Internet company, wins a competition to spend a week at a private mountain retreat belonging to Nathan, the reclusive CEO of the company. However, when Caleb arrives he finds that he will have to participate in a strange and fascinating experiment in which he must interact with the world’s first true artificial intelligence, housed in the body of a beautiful robot girl. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Sovereign ArtArt Foundation and Sovereign Foundation The Royal Charity Organization

Schools Prize 2015

ARTWORK FOR THANK YOU

Sovereign Sovereign Sovereign Art Sovereign Foundation Art Sovereign Foundation ArtSovereign Foundation Art Foundation Art Foundation Art Foundation

Schools Schools Schools Prize Schools Prize Schools 2015 Prize Schools 2015 Prize 2015 Prize 2015 Prize 2015 2015

CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN IN IN IN NEED IN NEED IN NEED IN NEED NEED NEED IN NEED ARTWORK ARTWORK ARTWORK ARTWORK ARTWORK FOR ARTWORK FOR FOR FOR FOR FOR

With our sincere appreciation for your dedicated efforts in supporting

The Sovereign Art Foundation Schools Prize 2015

His Excellency His Highness Shaikh RashidExhibition: binExhibition: Khalifa Al Khalifa Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Exhibition: Exhibition: 22nd Exhibition: 22nd Exhibition: -22nd 29th -22nd 29th -April 22nd 29th -April 22nd 29th 2015 -April 29th 2015 April - 29th 2015 April 2015 April 2015 2015

Under Secretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs, Ministry of the Interior The Honorary President of the Bahrain Arts Society

His Majesty King’s Representative for Charity Works and Youth Affairs

Chairman Board of of Trustees of the Royal Charity Organization at Isa at Cultural Isa at Cultural Isa at Cultural Isa Centre, at Cultural Isa Centre, atCultural Centre, Isa Kingdom Cultural Centre, Kingdom Centre, Kingdom ofKingdom Centre, Bahrain ofKingdom Bahrain ofof theKingdom Bahrain of Bahrain Bahrain of Bahrain

Exhibition: 22nd - 29th April 2015

at Isa Cultural Centre, Kingdom of Bahrain

SPONSORS

Sovereign Art Foundation

Schools Prize 2015

ARTWORK FOR

CHILDREN IN NEED MEDIA SPONSORS

FOLLOW US

Sovereign Art Foundation - ME |

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SAF_BAH | M: +973 3339 3379 | GKhallouf@SovereignGroup.com | www.SovereignArtFoundation.com

bystander

Batelco Motor show The Kingdom’s petrolheads came together to compete in the Batelco Motor Show. The event featured a display of classic and custom cars and bikes at the Batelco Hamala car park.

One of the cars on display

Hamad & Mohsin

100 May 2015

Shadi & Shahed

Salman & Ismayil

Kelly & Ebrahim

Yasir, Nooh & Asis

Berna, Mahmood & Majeed

Razan, Zainab & Hamad

Walaa & Sarah

Mohammed & Fatema

Shaima & Wafa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DINING

TASTEFULLY REFRESHING ANKITA MAMGAIN Take a culinary trip down the Mediterranean coast at this chic new restaurant that aims to provide the perfect combination of great food and a relaxing atmosphere.

N

icole’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge is a delightful new addition to Adliya’s culinary boutique block.

Founded last year, the venue is the labour of love by husband-and-wife-team Fadi and Denise Kfoury.

The idea for the restaurant came about after Denise attended a cooking class run by Chef Valter Piergiovanni in Saudi Arabia. The trio collaborated with Abdulkarim Al Yusuf and project Nicole’s was off the ground. Wondering about the story behind the name? Well, Nicole is the Kfourys’ only daughter.

Before you even step into the three-storey venue, you’ll be struck by its vibrant façade, which is a montage of perhaps every conceivable colour. Walking through the door, you will feel as though you’ve found a place www.bahrainthismonth.com

that’s completely unique, with the sights, sounds, scents and tastes of authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

The restaurant blends lights and textures to create a comfortable yet upscale experience.

The versatile venue allows you to dine at any of its three distinct sections, which were inspired by the Italian coast, the French Riviera and the Lebanese mountainside. Diners can hang out at the bar, or dine al fresco on the Santorini-style rooftop terrace.

“This concept is one-of-a-kind here in Bahrain,” Fadi explains. “Under one roof you can enjoy Italian, French, Greek, Lebanese and Spanish cuisine with an original twist from our cordon blue chef.”

The menu has been carefully crafted to please even the most discerning palettes.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 106 HAPPENINGS 115 CAFÉ FEATURE

You’re in for a medley of flavours, which can be perfectly paired with the right bottle of grape. From starters to share, through to traditional meat and fresh fish preparations as well as delectable desserts, the dishes reflect generosity and culinary fineness.

“Selecting the right people for the team is important, as they are the true ingredients for success,” says Fadi. “Chef Valter Piergiovanni and executive pastry chef, Rustam Aliev, have been hand-picked for their experience, skill, creativity and familiarity with Mediterranean food.”

Conjuring holiday memories for some and a gateway to the golden shores for others, this restaurant promises a journey that deserves to be taken.

Call 17 280-700.

May 2015 101

bystander

Melissa, Khalid & Bassam

Nathalie & Mo

Shima, Moutaz & Olga

Mary & Reza

Camelot Anniversary

Camelot Restaurant & Lounge celebrated the 13th anniversary of its popular tasting evening with an event called Gods of the Grape Fair.

Camelot staff and guests enjoy the celebration

Mohammed, Cristina & Nawal

Ian & Steve

Adel & PJ

Crystal, Joy, Gretchen & Anna

Angel & Mel

Milestone Birthday Party Dilmun Divers celebrated the 70th birthday of its oldest member, Kostas Pallikaropoulos. Close friends, family and members of the club attended the celebration.

Lilian & Kostas

Jen & Chris

102 March 2015

Wendy & Hubertus

Paula, Pierre & Yetta

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining LANTERNS RESTAURANT

Indulge in Iconic Fare

The only thing better than great food is the freedom to eat as much of it as you like. This quirky eatery is the perfect place to feast like a maharaja, with no holds barred.

Lanterns is a staple of Bahrain’s culinary scene; undoubtedly one of the most popular Indian restaurants on the island. With a reputation for great food, friendly service and competitive prices, it has developed a large and loyal fan following.

Present in five locations — Budaiya, Adliya, Durrat Al Bahrain, Juffair and, most recently Riffa — the iconic franchise is characterised

www.bahrainthismonth.com

by its brightly coloured walls and Indian pop culture artefacts. With almost three-decades of experience, this chain has cracked the art of adding a dash of fun to fine dining.

The menu offers a variety of flavours and Lantern’s famous buffets are a great way to sample a wide range of subcontinental delicacies. Typically, the spread consists of four types of starters, including soups and grills, which are served at the table on a small barbecue.

Look forward to a live cooking station for stir-fried dishes and a seafood corner where you can handpick your fish and have it cooked to your liking. The large salad bar is also loaded with fresh and tasty offerings.

For the main course, diners are spoiled for choice with 10 preparations. BTM recommends trying out the chicken makhani and mutton rogan josh — popular dishes on the menu. Cap off your meal with an array of sweet treats, displayed on the dessert trolley.

At the Budaiya branch, drop in for a delectable lunch every Friday from noon till 4pm, and an elaborate dinner on Mondays, from 7 to 11pm for BD6.9+. In Adliya, the buffet is available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday for BD9.9++. You can indulge in unlimited supply f food on Thursday evenings, Fridays and Saturday afternoons at Riffa branch for BD9.9++.

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

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dining

RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN

A Taste of Americana Known for its home-style cooking, this restaurant in the heart of Juffair now includes El Rancho Steakhouse & Cantina that serves up delicious Tex-Mex. A home away from home for American expats on the island, Ric’s Kountry Kitchen has gained a reputation for serving unpretentious and authentic food.

In addition to a packed house in Ric’s, you can now find many patrons heading to El Rancho Steakhouse & Cantina, located on the second floor.

Featuring an authentic Mexican menu, El Rancho offers a wide range of fajitas, taquitos and quesadillas along with quality cuts of meat.

The restaurant only serves USDA-certified Black Angus steaks and prime ribs, imported from the USA. The restaurant has undergone extensive renovations that have created a seamless transition from the downstairs area to the upstairs venue. El Rancho also has its own entrance through a courtyard corridor of vibrant colours that reflects the Mexican spirit, the company says.

“Our Tex-Mex menu includes the favourites you would expect from the South-western style of American cuisine,” notes Rick Abernathy, the managing director. “While Tex-Mex tones down the more spicy aspects of Mexican cuisine, customers can still order food as hot as they like it.”

Ric’s prides itself on feeling like ‘home’ and treating customers like one of the family. So, sit back and indulge in hearty portions of food brought straight to your table by the friendly and courteous staff.

From mouth-watering breakfasts to burgers, steaks, sandwiches and buffets, Ric’s offers the entire American package.

Call 17 725-550.

104 May 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Shirley & Dick

Paula, Sapphire & Ed

Neil & Di

Jonna, Shirley & Anita

Steve & Carol

Rorg, Zoe & Chloe

Birthday celebrations Shirley and Dick Potter celebrated their birthdays aboard the Assayel with close friends and family.

The birthday ride

Paula, Shirley, Ruth, Carol & Debbie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

John & Gail

May 2015 105

dininghappenings When? May 13 and 26 Event? Cooking class Venue? La Med, The Ritz Carlton Learn the art of fine gastronomy from the experts.

E Call 17 580-000.

When? Till May 15 Event? Crabs promotion Venue? Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy fresh Alaskan crabs cooked in a sauce of your choice.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? May 28- June 9 Event? Mexican food festival Venue? Gulf Hotel Join this Mexican fiesta filled with great food and entertainment.

E Call 17 713-000.

Grub Street With excellent deals and cuisine promotions, the island is full of hearty treats throughout the month.

Savour some American classics at El Rancho Steakhouse & Cantina. The restaurant has an ongoing promotion — a special four-course dinner for two, every Sunday. The meal features some of El Rancho’s top selling specialities and a glass of grape.

Throughout May, diners at Rasoi by Vineet at Gulf Hotel stand a chance to win a cook book, signed by chef Vineet Bhatia, every week. In addition to this, the hotel’s Italian restaurant, La Pergola, introduces a special menu. Here’s your chance to taste unique dishes like Parmegiano al Balsamico, Scampi Aceto and Gelato al caramello to name a few.

Gulf Hotel is also hosting a Mexican food and cultural festival this month. Running from May 28 till June 9, Margarita Mexicana and Al Waha restaurant will be home to eclectic flavours, colours, scents and vibes of the country. Entertainers are being flown in from Mexico and will transform the Gulf Hotel lobby into a Latin fiesta!

Serving up all your favourite Indian dishes on one plate or ‘Thali’, Spices Indian Restaurant at Crowne Plaza invites you for a special promotion this month. Chef Arif and the restaurant’s attentive service staff guarantee a truly authentic Indian experience.

Take a delicious trip across Italy at Rialto, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa’s Italian restaurant. This month, indulge in the on-going ‘Rome promotion’ to taste an eclectic variety of Roman fare. The kitchen staff has conjured some time-honoured recipes for you to sample, everyday from 7pm to 11.30pm. Kids under 10 dine for free.

Soie Restaurant at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel is hosting a Sukiyaki and Teriyaki promotion. The special menu includes tender chicken thighs, grilled with teriyaki marinate, served with longevity noodles for BD 5.200++.

106 May 2015

When? Throughout May Event? Special promotion Venue? El Rancho Steakhouse & Grill Enjoy a special four-course meal for two with a glass of grape.

E Call 17 725-550.

When? Throughout May Event? Special menu Venue? La Pergola, Gulf Hotel Try out traditional recipes made with aged vinegar by chef Enrico.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? Throughout May Event? Thali promotion Venue? Spices, Crowne Plaza Sample a variety of Indian favourites in one platter.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? Throughout May Event? Rome promotion Venue? Rialto, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Come down for an eclectic variety of Roman fare.

E Call 17 111-999.

There is also beef teriyaki-grilled sirloin with soy ginger marinate accompanied with sautéed bok choy for BD6.900++ and sukiyaki with a combination of beef, tofu, Napa cabbage, shitake, white radish, shirataki noodles, soy, ginger or sake flavouring for BD6.900++.

At the hotel’s An Nada Lounge there is a steak promotion going on. Pop down to try out tantalising dishes like char grilled chicken steak on garlic and mashed potatoes, grilled lamb loin on a bed of Ratatouille and US rib-eye beef with carrot and potato puree and much more.

Ladies can head to Baharat, at Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre, for a regional feast. Every Thursday and Friday, throughout the month, all ladies groups will receive a 50 per cent discount on their bill.

Learn the nuances of Italian cooking from the experts in an interactive cooking class at La Med in The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Scheduled for May 13 and 26, from 4pm to 6pm. The class is available for a groups of 10 and will be followed by lunch.

When? Throughout May Event? Sukiyaki and Teriyaki Promotion Venue? Soie, The Sheraton Bahrain Try out a special menu featuring tantalising dishes at great prices.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? Throughout May Event? Steak promotion Venue? An Nada lounge, Sheraton Bahrain Indulge in some fine cuts of meat grilled to perfection.

E Call 17 533-533.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dining BAYTI

Tradition with a Twist

yesteryear; chequered tabletops and natural light finish the look.

“At Bayti, we feel that local cuisine has great potential to evolve into interesting preparations,” says Peter Lyons, general manager. “Keeping inherent flavours intact, we want to take these dishes to the next level.”

One of the signature dishes is gourmet shawarma. This bespoke dish is made to your liking. From the bread to the meat and relishes, you get to choose it all. Another must-have is the chocolate shawarma for dessert.

You’ll know why it deserves a special mention when you see it.

“Arabic cuisine hasn’t evolved as much as others have over the years.

The aim was to bring a change to the menu and ambience of an Arabic restaurant. We wanted something funky, modern and attractive that caters not just to locals, but to Bahrain’s cosmopolitan population,” adds Peter.

Service is big part of the Bayti experience, which drops the age-old service industry clichés and makes way for a more casual and hospitable dining experience. Call 17 229-778.

Chocolate Shawarma

As regional gastronomy continues to evolve, there’s one quirky restaurant leading the charge with its imaginative culinary creations.

Bayti, located next to Bahrain Financial Harbour, adds an element of fun to the somewhat predictable experience of Arabic dining. The vibrant ambience of the restaurant adds to the dining experience and the food is the jewel in the crown.

With a funky mix of retro and modern interiors, the restaurant is becoming increasingly popular among locals, expats and tourists alike.

The walls are covered with retro pop art and posters of Arabic sirens of

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 107

dining

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

Oriental Magic This romantic and elegant resort boasts a stunning selection of food and beverage outlets, serving guests some of the finest cuisine the Kingdom has to offer.

108 May 2015

Al Areen Palace & Spa is only 20 minutes away from all city attractions, and offers a tranquil ambience brimming with luxury and hospitality.

Keizo, Al Areen’s Far-East Asian cuisine restaurant, provides a truly unmatched experience. The venue is situated in the middle of a lake, with a bridge inviting guests to step into a uniquely different world.

The decor is chic and sophisticated with oriental elements incorporated in a fabric-rich design.

Luxurious tapestry adorns the ceiling with decorations and special touches, which can be found everywhere.

Heading the kitchen team is chef Joel Decena, a Thai and Japanese cuisine specialist. He has worked in high-end restaurants and hotels across Dubai and Abu Dhabi and now brings his special signature dishes from Far Eastern cuisine at Keizo.

The restaurant’s bold character is reflected in the menu with daring combinations of flavours and textures that come together to form exemplary dishes.

“When guests dine at Keizo, they will experience an evening they will never forget. They can go by the menu or choose from a rather selective set of dishes that they’ve never tasted before. It’s all about what the customer wants,” says Joel.

Spanning further into the lake, slightly away from the main restaurant, the gazebos offer a stunning setup and intimacy, ideal to celebrate a romantic occasion. Along with a view of Keizo’s grand facade, diners enjoy the surroundings of a beautiful garden, illuminated palm trees and the serenity of the lake amidst the soft glow of candle lights.

In addition, the gazebos offer a tailor-made site that helps create the right mood and atmosphere for your celebration. The decor can be customised with

special touches such as thematic dining, decorations, a butler service and even a soothing serenade of your choice performed live by guitarists and violinists.

As a result of its unique location, the restaurant is also a popular venue for intimate weddings and parties. It can comfortably seat up to 81 persons inside including the private room while during weddings it can accommodate up to 140. Lunch is served from noon to 3.30pm while dinner is from 6.30pm till 10.30pm.

Located in a grandiose and exquisitely designed venue, the restaurant has become a premier dining destination in the Kingdom.

BTM readers get a special rate of BD40 net for the Gazebo tent and the set up per couple, which includes water and soft drinks; food charges are separate. All you have to do is present the offer code AAKG7579.

Call 17-845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MCDONALD’S

Retro Burger on the Menu The Golden Arches of this quick-service restaurant chain have been welcoming customers for more than 60 years. To mark this milestone, there’s a tasty new addition to the menu.

McDonald’s is celebrating six decades of serving millions of customers around the world with the introduction of a new premium item — the 1955 Burger. Containing a hearty combination of 100 per cent Halal beef patty, grilled onions, beef bacon strips, lush tomatoes and fresh iceberg lettuce, it’s a delight for all burger lovers. The delicious sandwich comes with sharp notes of steak pepper ketchup and creamy 1955 sauce, all stacked in a warm bun.

This mouth-watering time capsule also fetches you limited edition Coca-Cola glasses, featuring the iconic design of the decade, which come free with any large extra value meal. Six unique glass designs are on offer for collectors.

“We always listen closely to our customers and strive to deliver new flavours that are relevant, fun and, most importantly, of the best quality,” says Abdulla Adel Fakhro, director of Fakhro Restaurants.

“The 1955 Burger ticks all the boxes and gives us the opportunity to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the brand with everyone in Bahrain.”

The restaurant chain takes its commitment to serving the best quality food for great value, very seriously. All products served at McDonald’s restaurants in the region are Halal certified, inspected and approved by

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local authorities. The ingredients used in the restaurants can be traced back to a trusted supplier that shares the company’s dedication to the highest quality standards.

Call 17 221-722.

May 2015 109

bystander

Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant Opening

Razan & Adeeba

A grand opening ceremony was held at Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge in Adliya.

Denise, Fadi, Abdul & Asia

Easter Cooking Class Italian restaurant Vapiano, held an Easter- themed cooking class for kids at City Centre Bahrain.

The kids with Vapiano staff

Shiena & Zaid

110 May 2015

Nancy & Adam

Salbha & Cyril

Maria & Zainab

Araceli & Gabriela

Arwa & Tareq

Elham & Ruqaya

Majida & Wafa

Grace & Stephanie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Katia & Richie

Ameen, Saleem, Yasir & Rita

Bob Sinclar at Bushido Bushido hosted international DJ Bob Sinclar – The After Race F1 party last month.

Bob Sinclar

Aurelie, Nawar & Julie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sanja & Tamara

Alessandra & Mark

Greg, Dom & Melek

Siegfreid & Alexia

David & Laura

Bea, Francine & Hafida

Laci & James

May 2015 111

dining

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa

Délice-ous Delights!

Renowned for its luxurious confectionery, a quaint chocolatier on the island offers elegant French flavours. BTM has a ‘sweet talk’ with its general manager Ibtissem Haddou.

112 May 2015

Délice, located at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa lobby, offers gourmet confectionary and designs inspired by nature. The lady running the show behind this luxurious concept is the stylish and charming Ibtissem Haddou. Speaking about her role as general manager she says: “I always embrace new challenges and after spending more than a decade working in haute couture fashion in Paris, I found myself seeking a new adventure which applied my knowledge for luxury items and high-end service. I was already familiar with Délice and instantly fell in love with its French-chocolatier concept. For this reason, the role here in Bahrain was a perfect match.

“The world of Delice is incredibly chic, offering so many aesthetically stunning creations and variations, so it is always a delight to see customers when they admire our work in awe. We take great pride in our work and understand that each occasion is very special in its own unique way. I particularly enjoy meeting each individual who visits our boutique, offering guidance and assistance as required while they carefully choose their personal selections or designs.”

Délice is also available at Harrods in London and the

glamorous location of the store makes it all the more desirable. “I think that the quality of Delice’s products is second to none as we take great pride in how our ingredients are sourced,” says Ibtissem. “We exclusively use Valrhona chocolate in our recipes, which is a luxury French chocolate created by chef Michel Willaume, arguably the best chocolatier chef in Europe. There is absolutely no hint of bitterness to the taste and I would be amazed to find any chocolate with a silkier texture than Valrhona.

“We also insist on using carefully sourced Tunisian almonds, pistachios from Afghanistan, American walnuts and pine nuts from Turkey. Meanwhile, in our hand-crafted confectionary we only use natural colourings, derived from beetroot, chlorophyll and turmeric. These are used to create vibrant aesthetics in our displays and are flavoured with unsweetened fruit puree such as fresh orange, strawberry and apple.”

Délice goes above and beyond for its clients, offering the best possible personalised service for a truly bespoke experience. “I believe our regular clientele keep coming back to us mostly because we share their very high standards and expectations,” says Ibtissem. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Her personal style also exudes elegance and when asked for a style advice, she says: “Being French and having spent so much time living in Paris, I tend to covet Parisian style which is simple, elegant and focuses on quality. I believe desirable accessories are essential for completing an outfit and just a touch of lightly applied make-up ensures a fresh-faced French look.”

Speaking of style, the store has an array of decorative box designs to admire. Picking some of her favourites, Ibtissem says: “All of our boxes ensure our confectionary and chocolates offer a permanent keepsake to accompany our treats, some of which make the perfect display case at home for jewellery or similar items. Our bejewelled boxes are particularly alluring. For an incredibly decadent and generous treat though, Délice also offers one of the most luxurious chocolate boxes available. The box is lined with 24-carat gold or Swarovski crystals and contains 240 treats!”

The store is filled with colourful and intriguing displays of botanically inspired confectionary. “We offer these special treats individually in our boxes as well as towers and tray displays in a variety of different sizes,” explains Ibtissem. “The large displays are always magnificent for special occasions and just perfect for weddings. The colours are all natural and each sweet is individually hand crafted for a beautiful floral arrangement of confectionary.”

A dream come true for chocoholics, customers can also sample these indulgent treats at the store. When asked about her favourite chocolate, Ibtissem says: “Our Valrhona chocolate really is exquisite. My favourite chocolate is the Pur Pistachio which is not too sweet and has a perfect balance of chocolate and pistachio cream.

Our truffles are suitably decadent and we also offer some creative chocolates, from hand-painted artworks to glossy red hearts.”

Delice is located in the lobby of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Délice is looking forward to celebrating its first anniversary in Bahrain next month. “We have a luxurious collection of new boxes available later this year and will also be introducing the Noblesse Collection especially for Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr; they feature gold-plated calligraphy and will be available in five sizes,” says Ibtissem. “I believe there will be some new sweets and chocolates to keep an eye-out for too, some of which will only be available as special limited editions.”

Call 17 215-853, email delice.bahrain@delice-sweets. com or follow Instagram delicebahrain and Facebook delice bahrain.

Delice uses only the finest French chocolate individually hand-crafted

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ibtissem shows us examples of Delice’s edible arrangements

May 2015 113

bystander

Gallas & Amani

Sean Paul Live Sean Paul performed at the Elite Crystal Hotel’s Klub 360 as part of the F1 weekend.

Sean Paul performs

Nada & Tony

Hafia, Beth & Adel

114 May 2015

Jacob, Nisha & Cruz

Wajieda & Anas

Tuli & Muse

Nicole & Dennise

Rose & Hamood

Rose & Okon

Nabez & Ash

Wanjivu & Mary

Aseel, Misbah & Umssiah

Ahmed & Raheela

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Café Community

ANKITA MAMGAIN The Kingdom is home to a thriving café culture that is both ubiquitous and versatile. Bahrain’s eateries boast a style and sophistication comparable with the best facilities available anywhere in the world.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cafés are an integral part of the Kingdom’s social culture, serving as a place to enjoy light bites, warm beverages, catch up with friends or just unwind after a long day.

Although the modern prototype for cafés is strongly associated with France, the Middle East is where modern coffee consumption, as we know it, was born.

It evolved sometime around the 14th Century after coffee was first discovered in Ethiopia.

Since the first cup of brew was enjoyed more than

diningcaféfeature

600 years ago, coffee has been at the heart of Middle Eastern culture and is used as the standard welcome at hotels and homes.

Although café culture has evolved over the years, the concept remains remarkably unchanged. In fact, some of the traditional ghahwas or coffee houses can still be found in the souq, with high wooden benches lined up outside in the narrow side lanes.

The advent of Western café chains gave a boost to café culture and saw the growth of a number of international and homegrown across the island.

Adliya and Juffair soon became the epicentre of coffee consumption.

Al Bindaira Café is just one of the many quality establishments in Adliya, which include Don Vito Cafe, Chaise and Extrovert Café to name but a few. Veranda is one of the oldest venues with branches in Adliya, Amwaj and Adari Park.

Hop across to Juffair’s American Alley and you can find international chains including Starbucks, Caribou, Costa Coffee, Columbus Café, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Dome Cafe.

However, as the Kingdom develops, more and more venues are popping up from one end of Bahrain to the other. Riffa continues to add new venues at locations such as Enma Mall while Amwaj Lagoon is home to chic outlets like The Tea Club and Tche Tche Café.

You can also take a breather at Le Bateau on Budaiya Highway or head to Esquires in Saar. If that doesn’t float your boat, Aroma Café in Seef Mall provides guests with a mix of great beverages, food and n inviting ambience.

Some rather elaborate restaurants in Bahrain have adopted the café mantle, giving a casual edge to a fine dining setting. Some good examples include: the very chic Café Amsterdam, Engie’s Restaurant & Café, Lumee Street Café, Café Lilou and Paul’s Café & Restaurant.

Meanwhile, places like Maya La Chocolaterie, Le Chocolat and Cake Boutique combine a dessert shop with a café, presenting something new. Whatever your preference, the Kingdom has it covered!

May 2015 115

diningcaféfeature AL ABRAAJ RESTAURANTS GROUP

A Deliciously Rewarding Programme One hundred Ahlan points amount to BD1 so, once you have earned enough points, you can redeem them during your next visit to any of the outlets. You also have the option of paying partly with points and the rest with cash.

With such a variety of outlets under the group’s umbrella, having such a card is even more advantageous. The company’s portfolio includes some of the most-visited restaurants in the Kingdom.

Al Abraaj is the group’s main brand – a familyoriented restaurant serving Arabic, Indian, Chinese and Italian food. It has grown to be a major local brand and is particularly famous for its fresh homemade breads.

Al Bindaira Cafe is an upscale cafe serving Arabic mezzes, international dishes, fresh juices, coffee, tea and sheesha. NUasia offers a variety of food from India, China, Japan and Thailand; with an array of tandoori delicacies, colourful stir-fries, exotic curries, fresh sushi and much more.

YaSalam serves up sensational shawarma and everything is prepared fresh on the counter. There is room for customisation, so every dish is unique.

Lumee Street Cafe offers traditional fare in a contemporary environment and Italiano is a food court concept that focuses on serving Italian pasta and pizzas.

The company also brings you a sweet ending with TCBY, an American frozen yogurt concept, which has been serving frozen treats since 1981.

Visit www.ahlanrewards.com.

Cake box

Foodies in the Kingdom have another reason to smile as Al Abraaj Restaurants Group launches an attractive reward programme for its customers.

116 May 2015

The Ahlan Rewards programme provides diners with points every time they order or dine at any of the company’s eateries, including: Al Abraaj restaurants, Al Bindaira Cafe, NUasia, TCBY, Lumee Street Cafe, YaSalam and Italiano.

The next time you eat at these restaurants, remember to sign up for the programme. There’s no joining fee and, once you get your Ahlan card, points will be added to your account with every meal eaten.

The card is straightforward to use; for every BD1 you spend dining at Al Abraaj, Al Bindaira Cafe and YaSalam you gain five points and for every BD1 you spend at NUasia Restaurants, TCBY and Italiano you receive 10 points. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Danila & Dima

Dana, Jaad, Najid & Suraya

Jihan & Zaina

F1 Opening Party with Jade Coral bay kicked off its official F1 after-race party ‘Shifting Gears - The Electronic Music Experience’ featuring DJ Jade of Basement Beirut.

DJ Jade spins the discs

Ziyana & Daniela

Elmo & Angela

Jobeth & Amy

Bilal & Manisha

Alphonso & Jenny

Haidar & Hanine

Dj Patrick

Sheryl & Rachel

Mo & Anna

Tootoo & Teetoo

Luke & Maika

Emily & Karim

Rashida & Paul

Aziz & Laura

Navas & Natasha

Fashion TV Party FTV and Coral Bay’s collaboration party, Fashion TV Nuit Des Papillons or Night of the Butterflies, featured DJ Patrick Hagenaar.

Coral Bay & FTV staff with DJ Patrick

Paul Van Dyk Coral Bay bid farewell to the F1 party weekend with Grammy nominated trance DJ, musician and producer, Paul Van Dyk. Paul Van Dyk

118 May 2015

Coca-Cola sponsor Clifford & wife Joann celebrate with Paul Van Dyk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningcaféfeature CAFÉ AMSTERDAM

Time for Tea

Going by the literature, the origins of ‘high tea’ date back to the early 1800s. This boutique restaurant offers a fresh take on the age-old practice.

Who doesn’t enjoy a good conversation over a simmering cup of tea and some sandwiches and pastries? The charming Café Amsterdam, located in Adliya, is inviting customers to enjoy a laidback afternoon sipping on tea while enjoying the inviting ambiance.

“At Café Amsterdam, we understand that the traditional pastime of high tea is one of the best parts of the day,” says James Johnston, general manager of the restaurant.

“That’s why we’ve brought back this centuries-old tradition with a new and delicious high tea menu. Pop in with your friends, family or colleagues for a brew and a variety of delicate sandwiches, cakes, homemade scones and other baked delights. Everything is made in our bakery, using fresh ingredients handpicked from the market.

“A good cup of tea is what really makes this time of the day special,” he adds. “That’s why we’ve ensured our selection only includes premium Jing Tea, which is enjoyed by connoisseurs all over the world.”

Alternatively, you can sample a selection of coffees and hot chocolate.

Whether you decide to sit by the brick decorated walls lined with tulips and bicycles, or in the outdoor garden, you must try the ‘Cream Tea’ option, available for BD7.5. This includes homemade scones and clotted cream, as well as a selection of sandwiches and cakes. You can also opt for mouth-watering waffles, topped with rich maple syrup and vanilla ice cream, served with warm chocolate.

Visit Café Amsterdam’s delightful venue for an exquisite high tea experience. With our bright & spacious conservatory, a beautiful garden, an extensive range of Jing tea and a variety of delicate sandwiches, attractive cakes, homemade scones and other baked delights, it’s simply divine!

Opposite the Gulf Hotel, Adliya Telephone: +973 1700 7404

Call 17 007-404. www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 119

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Sparkle With Colour The all new Cocktail collection from Lola and Grace injects your look with seasonal colours that sparkle with Swarovski crystals. Rings, necklaces and earrings come to life with different colours that capture the spirit of the season.

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

Versatile Scents Enter the world of quality and refinement with Teo Cabanel perfumes — Julia and Hegoa are perfect for all seasons and occasions. ‘Julia’ is rich and subtle with a flowery fruity bouquet. It opens with fresh mandarin, rhubarb greens and tart blackcurrant, with notes of jasmine, hyacinth and violet at the heart and finishes with sandalwood, incense, citrus, a hint of raspberry and musk. ‘Hegoa’ is a light and brisk eau de toilette that is naturally luxurious, with top notes of lemon, mandarin orange and bergamot, middle notes of rose and green tea and base woody notes of amber and musk.

Available exclusively at The Perfume Lounge, Seef Mall.

A Woman’s World The number one lingerie specialist in Europe, Hunkemöller’s collection includes not just lingerie but also nightwear, swimsuits, hosiery, beauty products and accessories.

Available in a variety of sizes and styles, the products are always bang on trend, with sensual colours and designs.

Available at Hunkemöller stores in City Centre Bahrain and The Centre Nuwaidrat.

Exquisite Creations Maison Boucheron’s first boutique in Bahrain showcases symbolic timepieces alongside iconic jewellery creations, such as the graphic Quatre or the timeless Ava. The Serpent Bohème collection, a tribute to the love story between Frédéric Boucheron and his wife Gabrielle, can also be found here. Boucheron’s watchmaking art takes centre stage with the new collections, Epure and the timeless Reflet. A selection of high jewellery pieces such as Pompon is also available. In the finest tradition of French high jewellery, the brand offers a special order service for an exceptional experience.

Available at Boutique Boucheron in MODA Mall. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Beach Ready Get your beach body into Oysho’s new collection of swimwear. Strut your stuff and be the envy of the sands with the new summer collection, which has something for every body shape. With an array of colours, patterns and designs to choose from, embrace the summer, head to the beach and be a head-turner.

Available at Oysho store in City Centre Bahrain.

May 2015 121

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A Royal Reverence

Ring — platinum, one 30.21-carat D IF pear-shaped diamond, diamonds.

The absolute pure diamond necklace.

Necklace/ring — platinum, one 30.21-carat D IF (clarity and quality classification) pear-shaped diamond, one 17.40-grain natural pearl, two modified shield step-cut diamonds totalling 7.26 carats, pear-shaped diamonds, brilliant-cut diamonds. The diamond can be removed and set on the ring.

Surpassing its own brilliance, one of the world’s renowned jewellery brands has launched a dazzling new majestic collection fit for a queen!

122 May 2015

Making a grand presence at every regal occasion, Cartier is truly the “king of jewellers and the jeweller to kings”.

A permanent observer of beauty across the world and always on the look out for rare, unique stones, Cartier has now created a new collection of high jewellery - the Cartier Royal Collection.

This exceptional collection is the epitome of beauty and was launched in only four cities in the world Paris, New York, Dubai and Hong Kong.

Royal in every aspect, from the quality of the gems and the inspiration of the design to the perfection of the result, it’s an eclectic collection sparkling with high jewellery pieces and unique objects that represent a combination of rigour, curiosity and passion.

The 30.21-carat absolute pure diamond can also be mounted as a ring. Jeweller’s adjustments around the ring.

These remarkable creations form a collection of more than a 100 pieces, which demonstrates Cartier’s expertise and its exceptional ‘eye’. The rare, highly sought-after precious and fine stones are chosen for their obvious beauty or their unusual personality.

Cartier gives them a compelling identity that radiates from the splendour of these creations, in tune with today and treasures of tomorrow! www.bahrainthismonth.com

Some of the magnificent pieces from the range include: The Absolute Pure Diamond Necklace: The Quest For The Ideal A brilliant-cut pear-shaped gem of 30.21 carats, the absolute pure diamond is remarkable not only for its weight but also its purity and has inspired two complete Cartier high jewellery creations. It can be worn as the centrepiece of a dazzling necklace or a chiselled ring.

This piece has given Cartier a platform to use its unique craftsmanship to make the platinum setting invisible.

Adjustment and jewellery work on the pendant of the necklace, before setting the 26.60-carat cushion-shaped emerald.

Necklace with a cushion-shaped emerald

Necklace with the intense red ruby from Africa.

Necklace — platinum, one 15.29-carat oval-shaped ruby from Mozambique, one 3.51-carat D IF rose-cut diamond, one 5.10-carat D IF pear-shaped rose-cut diamond, cabochon-cut and faceted ruby beads, pear-shaped rose-cut diamonds, calibrated diamonds, brilliant-cut diamonds. The chocker ruby part and the diamond part can be worn separately.

Jeweller’s work on the structure of the necklace, around the 15.29-carat intense red ruby from Africa.

Necklace With The Intense Red Ruby From Africa: When The Craftsmanship Matches The Idea For the centre of a ‘draperie’ necklace, Cartier has chosen a 15.29-carat oval ruby from Mozambique with a very pure crystal accompanied by two exceptional diamonds of more than three carats each. The ruby, glowing like hot embers from the centre of this supple, structural necklace, gives it a magnificent allure. It is designed with a fluidity that can make it intimate or formal. A necklace with real character, made in the Cartier tradition of transformable jewellery, the ruby sphere choker can be detached, giving way to an array of diamonds.

Adjustment and jewellery work on the structure of the necklace, before setting the 26.60-carat cushion-shaped emerald.

The 26.60-carat cushionshaped emerald, some components of the necklace and the design drawing.

Necklace With A Cushion-Shaped Emerald: The Art Of Display The cushion-shaped 26.60-carat Colombian emerald is an ancient, old mine stone with a deep fresh colour that hides a thousand secrets of its history. To honour its origins and celebrate its beauty, Cartier has created a delicate necklace and designed a surround of calibrated triangular diamonds. The design is utterly simple and free of any unnecessary ornamentation. It’s a statement by a passionate jeweller and a masterful presentation that highlights the intrinsic beauty of this fascinating stone, its flamboyance and mysteries.

Visit any Cartier boutique for inquiries.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 123

bystander

Dipika, Kiran & Sunita

Capital Club Talk Information Affairs Minister, HE Isa bin Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi delivered a talk to Capital Club members and guests.

HE Isa bin Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi

Members engage in discussion

Cocktail Party Radhika and Sanjay held a cocktail party at their residence for friends.

Sanjay & Radhika

Lamis,Farah & Iro

Gulf Air’s Reception Gulf Air’s executive management team held a cocktail reception at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa to unveil its newest Falconflyer programme offering.

Sunehri, Sanjay & George

Radhika, Sanjay & Sunehri

Gulf Air’s executive management at the launch

www.jfcbahrain.com

124 May 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace K HOME & KITCHEN W.L.L.

Catering to the Industry Conveniently located in the heart of Manama, K Home & Kitchen is a leading distributor and stockist of hotel and restaurant supplies of prestigious brands.

The company not only caters to, but is innovative in bringing new designs and concepts to, the hospitality industry and it enjoys a long and successful association with leading brands such as Sambonet, Paderno, Churchill, Rosenthal, Zieher, Libbey, Cambro and Sola.

There is an ever expanding product range which covers a wide spectrum of items including cutlery, crockery, glassware, banquet supplies, tableware, linen, kitchen equipment and everything related to the hospitality industry displayed in the Exhibition Avenue showroom.

A company spokesman says: “The recently concluded Formula One event in the Kingdom has been an inspiration allowing us to work with many event organisers and to cherish the golden moments which attracted visitors from across the GCC and other countries to Bahrain.

“Last month the grand opening of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay and many more international prestigious hotels coming to join the existing properties makes us feel more optimistic about the future of the hospitality industry in the Kingdom. We foresee a fairly good demand for new and innovative concepts in tableware, buffet displays, indoor and outdoor furniture and so on.”

At K Home & Kitchen, customers are the motivators keeping team members on their toes and pushing the search for the latest collections

www.bahrainthismonth.com

with new and exciting designs and unique speciality pieces always on offer whether it be for restaurants, outlets or banquets.

K Home & Kitchen strives to deliver and exceed customer expectations offering premium quality products with excellent standards. Today’s hospitality industry is demanding and the company will continue to provide a level of understanding to match those needs.

May 2015 125

marketplace

Super Sliders

THE CLOSETS

Smart Storage Clever kitchens make happy cooks and whether your culinary space is large or small, there’s always room for more intelligent storage. The Closets has a range of smart storage solutions to give your kitchen a little extra oomph.

Super Sliders The advantages of the Nova Pro cabinet slide are not visible but they can be felt - during each movement.

One notices the feeling of firm but free running, opening and closing drawers and doors without handles, using such innovative systems as Sensotronic, Sensomatic or Tipmatic plus, which make Nova Pro so unique.

Clever Cupboards

Clever Cupboards Say goodbye to scrabbling around the back of the cupboard for that one missing ingredient that just doesn’t want to be found. With the efficient use of space in this custom-closet you can see everything at a glance and, with the slide out function, you actually get extra space to play with.

Hidden Helper Combine two storage solutions in one and make use of the usually wasted space at the top of your pan cupboard by added a neat drawer which can be used for cutlery or possibly as a chopping board space.

Call 17 555-066.

126 May 2015

Hidden Helper

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Volvo Golf Challenge Launch Motorcity Holding in association with the Royal Golf Club announced the second Volvo World Golf Challenge tournament in Bahrain during a press conference.

Omran, Igor, Aureliano, Bijan, Waleed Kanoo, Mike, Trevor & Stephen

Heather McKinley’s Farewell Heather McKinley held a farewell for Mala Kumar, wife of the Indian Ambassador and Bridget Lindsay, wife of the British Ambassador at her residence.

Anne, Margaret, Romina, Bridget, Debbie, Mala, Shandra, Heather, Lyn & Jo

128 May 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Find out about the new Tempo collection at www.natuzzi.com

Find out about the new Tempo collection at www.natuzzi.com Tel. ADDRESS 17.564444 - Fax. 17.564466 email: phodecor@batelco.com.bh ADDRESS ADDRESS ADDRESS ADDRESS

Seef district, facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg.

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bystander

Vishal & Anu

BMMI Tasting Event Bahrain Maritime & Mercantile International Group held a grape-tasting event for guests.

Paul, Ian, Vivek, Suji & Basim

Annual Day Celebrations The Bhatia Mitra Mandal organisation celebrated annual day with members and guests at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel and bid farewell to HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador.

Manoj Bhatia, Sushil Muljimal & Kishore Kewalram present a memento to HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Darren & Veronika

Rose & Merlon

Irina & Alexandre

Justin & Nithin

Susanna & John

Francine & Fernanda

A dance performance

Prakash, Pallavi, Haripriya & Punit

Golden Tulip Staff Party Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel held its annual staff party at the Gilgamesh Ballroom. Abdul Rahim Al Sayed, general manager, awarded staff for their contributions.

Management and staff at the party

Bahrain Specialist Hospital Conference The Bahrain Specialist Hospital held the 16th Regional Hypertension Conference at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Participants at the conference

130 May 2015

www.bahrainthismonth.com

recognised as Bahrain’s Leading Serviced Apartments by the World Travel Awards for 2013 and 2014.

Located conveniently in the heart of the city, in the business-friendly Seef district and offering an indoor access to Seef Mall, Fraser Suites Seef is a welcome haven for travellers who want to be right in the midst of the action, without sacrificing the comforts of home.

The property houses full-sized suites with a kitchen, laundry facilities, large open plan living and dining spaces, generously proportioned bedrooms with luxurious bedding and high-quality bathroom amenities, combined with full hotel-style services.

As every summer, Fraser Suites Seef is offering a variety of packages for leisure and business travellers, including seasonal promotions to enhance the experience of Bahrain during the warmer months.

Call 17 171-626 or visit bahrain.frasershospitality.com.

FRASER SUITES SEEF

Service at its Best The concept and convenience of a home-away-from-home has made the popularity of serviced apartments rise exponentially on the island and globally.

Serviced apartments have grown in recent years and become one of the most exciting sectors in international hospitality, as both business and leisure travellers have come to identify and appreciate their advantages.

Leading the pack in the Kingdom is Fraser Suites Seef, which was

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 131

marketplace BATH & BODY WORKS

Fun Under the Sun The onset of summer brings a certain playfulness to the season, which is captured in one of this leading brand’s signature collections of fragrances and bath accessories.

Bath & Body Works is celebrating the summer season with a new addition to its Signature Collection, Love & Sunshine, guaranteed to make you smile. This fresh and playful fragrance is a bright, happy blend of the juiciest fruits, brightest blooms and citrus flavours.

With top notes of pear blossom, Mara strawberry, kiwi, sweet lemon and honeydew melon, mid notes of daisies, lily of the valley and honeysuckle and dry notes of coconut orchid, amber woods, cedar wood and sunshine musk, it’s happiness in a bottle!

The collection includes body lotion, shower gel, fine fragrance mist and body cream as well as bubble bath and body wash.

The body lotion, infused with shea butter and the brand’s exclusive daily moisture complex will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth and nourished. Fortified with nutrient-rich ingredients like protective Vitamin E and conditioning Vitamin B5, its fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula delivers 16 hours of continuous moisture.

The beautifully fragranced formula of the shower gel contains moisturising aloe and Vitamin E, combined with skin-loving shea butter, to give a rich, bubbly lather bursting with fragrance.

The new Ultra Shea body cream provides 24 hours of nourishing moisture to soften even the driest skin.

132 May 2015

With soothing aloe butter, pampering cocoa butter and more shea than ever before, its non-greasy formula melts into the skin to provide a beautiful fragrance with all-day and all-night hydration.

For a relaxing bath, envelop yourself in a rich, creamy foam of long-lasting, luxe bubbles. The bubble bath and body wash are fortified with nutrient-rich ingredients like protective Vitamin E, jojoba and aloe. The ultra-soothing formula leaves the skin beautifully scented.

Lavishly splash or lightly spritz the fine fragrance mist for an instant feeling of freshness. The carefully crafted bottle and sophisticated pump deliver great coverage while conditioning aloe mist nourishes the skin in the lightest and most refreshing way.

So, arm yourself with this latest collection, as it’s time to smell the happiness!

The shower gel is priced at BD6, bubble bath and body wash at BD7.5, body lotion at BD6, Ultra Shea body cream at BD5.25 and fine fragrance mist at BD7.5, all available at Bath & Body Works at City Centre Bahrain, Seef Mall and Seef Mall Muharraq.

Call the City Centre Bahrain branch on 17 178-627 or the Seef Mall branch on 17 580-177.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

JUNAID PERFUMES

Enhancing Employee Skills

Lamya receiving her certificate from Dr Mansoor Al Jamri, the head of WTDI, in the presence of Khalid

Public relations is a vital aspect of creating brand recognition and one of the leading perfumers in the region is encouraging its staff to excel by conducting relevant workshops.

Junaid Perfumes, which was established in 1910, is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC and has significantly grown in repute and stature over the years. The company conducts various workshops for its employees to ensure it has knowledgeable and skilled staff, paving the path for future success and personal growth.

One glowing example is Lamya Matooq, public relations (PR) manager at Junaid Perfumes, who successfully completed a workshop on “Managerial Diplomacy in Public Relations” recently. The three-day workshop was conducted by Al Wasat Training & Development Institute (WTDI), steered and presented by the PR expert and executive coach, Khalid Al Qoud. He shed light on many essential aspects of PR, including its important roles and goals, media and advertisements’ influence on shaping public opinions, in addition to mastering PR strategies that include etiquette, protocol and event planning and management.

“Junaid Perfumes always strives to enhance its employees’ skills and performance in order to provide our clients with the best customer service they deserve,” says Junaid Perfumes marketing director Fahad Junaid. “We are very delighted at Ms Matooq’s participation in the workshop, we are confident that she will use her skills and knowledge for the best of our company.”

Lamya expressed her appreciation to Junaid Perfumes for its wise vision and willingness to always enhance its employees’ skills, which would pave the way to better serve the company.

Today Junaid Perfumes operates over 150 exclusive retail outlets in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and many other countries worldwide.

Call 17 737-007. www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 133

marketplace VIVA

Business-in-a-Box

A major telecom company has come up with an innovative new business offering to empower Small and Medium Enterprises.

When operating a small or medium-sized business, one of the basic needs is the set up of a telecom system that not only caters to the start-up but also to the growing needs of the company.

VIVA Bahrain has introduced a new portfolio of comprehensive telecom solutions catering to the Kingdom’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). As part of its latest offering, VIVA has created an innovative leading-edge solution for SMEs through its all-in-one communication package — VIVA ‘Businessin-a-Box’.

“SMEs constitute the largest market segment of Bahrain’s economy. At VIVA, we recognise the relevance of SMEs to the economy and work continuously to support this dynamic sector by developing telecom solutions that match their growing needs,” says VIVA Bahrain chief wholesale and enterprise officer Saad Odeh.

VIVA ‘Business-in-a-Box’ offers SMEs a free broadband router, shared unlimited data, free shared mobile minutes to other local networks, unlimited VIVA to VIVA calls and SMS, a fixed line with special number and the best LTE broadband connection.

The solution also offers businesses data add-ons that are customisable. Additionally, businesses will also have the flexibility of the latest smartphones including iPhone 6, Samsung GALAXY Note 4 and much more.

Visit viva.com.bh/business.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

SHAKAR TAILORING HOUSE

Customised Threads Made-to-measure clothes have always reflected the personal style of a gentleman and nothing screams sophistication and class quiet like a well-tailored suit.

Whether you’re stepping out for an important meeting or dressing for a special occasion, a well-fitted suit should be a staple in every man’s wardrobe.

Shakar Tailoring House, established in 1952, has a history in making quality garments and offers bespoke tailoring to suit your individual needs.

Catering to the taste of fashion conscious modern men today and in keeping with their personal style, the tailoring house offers custom-made attire using quality fabrics to complement individual needs.

The company’s vast and varied experience of over 50 years in the tailoring business has made it a firm favourite among those looking for high-quality apparel that’s made to last, be it suits, shirts or thobes.

The brand has grown from strength to strength and perfected its tailoring abilities in both quality and quantity. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, Shakar is renowned for its eye for detail.

“We have a vast collection of proven, fashionable designs and patterns and can also individually tailor your own design,” says owner, Aziz Shakar. “We use quality fabrics from Holland and Sherry of Savile Row, London, as well as Scabal for our suits.”

The company also specialises in tailoring quality shirts using high-end textile materials such as the Italian brand Testa. Shakar has a wide range

of materials for shirting and offers made-to-measure or readymade shirts in 100 per cent cotton, imported from Italy.

Many major hotel chains, airlines, schools, hospitals, defence forces, diplomats and business executives look to the tailoring house for their suit and uniform needs.

“Every piece of fabric and finished item is checked thoroughly before receiving the Shakar stamp of approval and is ready to be delivered and enjoyed,” says Aziz.

The Dar Al Shakar showroom is located in Moda Mall.

Call 17 531-521.

P.O. BOX 1318, MANAMA, KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN/TEL OFFICE: +973 17292822 SHOWROOM: 17292315 FAX: 17291509 MODA MALL : 17531521 /EMAIL: INFO@ALSHAKAR.COM www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 135

marketplace

LOST PARADISE OF DILMUN WATERPARK

Sensational Summer Surprises Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) Waterpark welcomes the summer with exhilarating rides, exciting activities and a superb line up of events.

Angeline Quinto

Daniel Matsunaga

136 May 2015

As summer draws closer, there’s no better time to make the most of the Kingdom’s most impressive waterpark. Beat the heat by enjoying a splashing good time at this Dilmun-themed wonderland.

Guests are in for a fun day out as they ride in and out of the waterpark’s numerous attractions. From the relaxing lazy river, to the fastest body slide, there are plenty of reasons to makes guests come back again and again.

Families will also enjoy more fun time together with specially made toddler waterslides and cool splashes from the waterpark’s colourful water play structures.

The summer also marks an array of events and activities that aim to help visitors make the most of the season.

“Lost Paradise of Dilmun is fully-equipped for a fullpledged musical and leisure experience,” says Pierre Vasseur, general manager, LPOD Waterpark. “Since we launched the event it has received tremendous response and guests have flocked in at even higher numbers as expected.”

This year’s Summer Festival will run from mid May till June 12, 2015. The event promises to be the highlight of the season with A-list international artists and well-loved Khaleeji singers.

Filipino fans are in for an added dose of excitement, as LPOD & Houras Consultancy join together for the “Pinoy Festival” in celebration of Philippines Independence Day on, June 12 2015.

Aside from the already exciting waterpark rides, guests can also enjoy an array of traditional Filipino games and activities with special food stalls offering favourite Filipino foods. For the first time in Bahrain, special guests — model/actor Daniel Matsunaga and highly acclaimed singer/actress Angeline Quinto — will be flown in straight from Manila for the event.

The event will also feature resident talents, from DJ’s, bands and Filipino dance groups. To ensure maximum fun, organisers are also offering a free bus ride on the event day with two trips from Gudaibiya to LPOD on a first-come-first-served basis.

Filled with fun, music and excitement, the Pinoy Festival is sure to be a hit with guests from across the island. The event is also supported by Pinay Ikaw Na! group and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers.

Call 17 845-100, 33 934-790, 33 336-826 or 33 488-499. www.bahrainthismonth.com

HOUSE OF TRAVEL

Here Comes the Sun With summer fast approaching, it’s the ideal time to begin planning your holiday and the Kingdom’s favourite leisure travel office is on hand to take the stress out of planning the perfect trip.

House of Travel (HOT) Holidays Shop, located in Seef Corner, is offering holidaymakers the chance to win a cruise for two on-board Royal Caribbean’s latest ship, Anthem of the Seas, taking in some of the best destinations in Europe.

Everything is included, from return plane tickets to London with Gulf Air, taxes etc. The ship departs from Southampton and heads to Brussels, Paris and then back to Southampton.

Taking part is easy; all you have to do is visit our Seef Corner office or the HOT kiosk at City Centre Bahrain on May 7 and 8 to collect your ticket and drop it off at the HOT holidays shop before June 17.

The company’s general manager of leisure, Vinod Patric, says: “I want travellers to come to our holiday shop and experience the environment because I believe your holiday

starts from here. The holiday shop has been open for seven months and we’ve been busy getting our ducks in a row for the start of the season. Now, we’re ready to help take the stress out of planning your summer holiday.”

HOT offers bespoke travel packages for customers and can help you to organise anniversaries, honeymoons, family travel or corporate trips from its one-stop shop in Seef.

Moreover, the qualified and well-travelled consultants have first-hand knowledge about the destinations on offer to insure you get the right advice.

To ensure customers have been access to the finest service and the widest choice of travel options, HOT have exclusive agreements with many of the world’s leading travel and leisure companies.

Call 17-117-408 or 36 066-010.

WIN A FREE CRUISE WITH HOUSE OF TRAVEL PRIZE INCLUDES • • •

VISIT OUR KIOSK IN

• •

Royal Caribbean Cruise for 2 people with return Gulf Air ticket Cruise Ship – Royal Caribbean International Anthem of the Seas - Ocean View Cabin Departure: 29 August 2015 from London (Southampton) Duration: 3 nights & 4 days Raffle Draw: 17 June 2015 at House of Travel Seef Office

CITY CENTRE Bahrain City Centre - Ground Floor Close to Gate 2 – near Starbucks

30 April & 01 May 07 May & 08 May OR VISIT OUR

SEEF CORNER OFFICE www.bahrainthismonth.com

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:

17117408 / 36066010 17117407 / 36066947

info@hot.bh www.hot.bh houseof_travel

May 2015 137

marketplace

Executive chef Biju Mohamed

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ramada Hotel Bahrain has a reputation for serving up consistently delicious fare over the years. BTM meets the man who makes it all happen.

138 May 2015

Biju Mohamed, executive chef at Ramada Hotel Bahrain, has a career spanning almost two decades.

He has worked in some of the largest and most demanding kitchens in India and the Middle East and has now made his mark on the menu at the Ramada.

Chef Biju has a passion for experimenting with flavours and textures, a trait that has seen him come up with deliciously innovative creations. He is excited about the hotel’s upcoming promotions that showcase its culinary repertoire and offer something special to the diners each month.

“We have a seafood promotion coming up this month before we gear up for Iftar and Sehour during Ramadan,” he explains. “Besides this, we have a new menu in our dining outlet the Le Jardin Restaurant, Exchange English Pub, Oasis Pool Bar and, of course, for room service.”

Chef Biju says the wide diversity of Indian cuisine was a big influence during his initial days as a chef.

“Moving abroad was equally enlightening, as I was able to indulge more in European, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Far Eastern cuisines, which are particularly popular in multi-cultural societies like Bahrain,” he says.

Having joined Ramada Bahrain in June 2014, chef

Biju was instantly impressed with the standards maintained by the hotel in terms of quality of food and service. The kitchen team come from different parts of the world, providing a mix of energy and experiences that chef Biju believes is imperative to dishing up quality fare.

“Being asked to lead this dynamic group is a true privilege and I get to learn as much as I teach each day,” he says.

Prior to working with Ramada, chef Biju had a chance to work as a senior sous chef to HH Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in Dubai. He recalls this experience as truly life changing. “As a chef, not only I was serving some of the most important dignitaries of the world, I had the ultimate luxury of working in one of the best equipped kitchens and having the finest ingredients at my disposal,” he says.

For chef Biju the most gratifying aspect of the job is seeing the smile of satisfaction on the guests’ faces. He says: “Along with the instant feedback which is most often positive, the opportunity to train young chefs, possibility of learning from specialists and of course the never-ending option of exploring new cuisines and recipes keeps the excitement alive for me.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

INTERCOL

Work Hard, Play Hard!

Switch from work to play in no time with the latest Microsoft mobile device, which puts both office essentials and entertainment apps in the palm of your hand.

your photos and important files. Office 365 ensures files are always up-to-date, enabling users to access them anywhere at anytime, on the go and across three different devices.

In Bahrain, Lumia 640 XL will also come bundled with a slim flip cover, screen protector and several app offers. Users will get two months free and unlimited access to movies and TV series on ICFLIX as well as the Box TV app, BD10 off on the first ride booked through the UBER app and one month free premium membership on the Gaana mobile app.

Intercol is the authorised partner for Microsoft mobile devices in Bahrain and the Lumia 640 XL is available at all Intercol and key retailer outlets in the Kingdom.

Call Intercol at 17 727-177 or email nokia@intercol.com.

Whether you’re finishing up urgent office work or simply chilling with a favourite film, you can now do more of what you love with Lumia 640 XL. Lumia 640 XL, the latest addition to the Lumia family, is the perfect companion for both work and play. Packed with a 1.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and 1GB RAM, it features a 5.7-inch HD display and at-a-glance screen, perfect for watching videos, playing games or editing documents.

The phone will upgrade to and benefit from Windows 10, which will become available later this year.

It also features a 13MP rear camera with LED flash and a 5MP front camera, helping users to capture their world in greater detail, along with some smart software such as the intuitive Lumia Camera app.

The Lumia 640 XL comes with a one-year subscription, worth BD25, to Office 365 Personal, which includes the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and 1TB of OneDrive storage to store all

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 139

A spectacular new photographic book about the Kingdom of Bahrain

by Andrew Weaver

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

In all leading bookstores now.

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

winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

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What is the name of the ongoing exhibition showcasing the works of two leading Bahraini artists at Albareh Art Gallery? ___________________________ The exhibition titled ‘The Sicily of the Leopard in Piraino’s Collection’ at the Bahrain National Museum features how many exquisite handmade garments? ___________________________ How many albums have The Wailers sold worldwide with Bob Marley? ___________________________ What is the name of the open air music festival, taking place at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club, featuring 21 tribute acts from the UK? ___________________________ What litre-engine does the 2015 Nissan Juke have? ___________________________ What is the starting price of the Suzuki Ciaz? ___________________________ Which new BMW models have recently been launched? ___________________________ Which new Mediterranean restaurant opened in Adliya last month? ___________________________ Name the burger Mcdonald’s has introduced to mark its 60th anniversary? ___________________________ Which restaurant company has introduced a new rewards programme called Ahlan? ___________________________

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HINT: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

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!

WhoWe got ithave right? a complete system for

Bahrain This Month received 68 entries last month, 57 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: 1. Low Level Laser Light therapy 2. Al Athmad Winner : Joyce Fernandes 3. Mesotherapy Second Place : Margaret Coutinho 4. Keratin fibers to hide baldness in half a minute Third Place : Joel Valentine 5. Platelet Rich Plasma - -extract natural growth hormones from the blood.

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May 2015 141

tarotscope

TAURUS

Apr 21 – May 20 You’re going to be particularly busy this May as you seek to push through new initiatives within the workplace and also put the finishing touches to a personal project that is likely to bring you in a tidy little side income over the coming weeks.

What is of primary importance for you over this frantic period is the ability to put some time aside to relax in the company of loved ones. Don’t neglect your own needs or the needs of those closest to you. A business trip on the 27th may turn out to be more rewarding than you first imagined; and for those of you who are looking for a romantic attachment, you may discover it in the most unlikely of situations.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Pentacles For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 No matter how hard you try to hide your feelings, it’s going to be difficult to disguise them for much longer when it comes to a work colleague to whom you are being drawn ever closer. The only reason you haven’t been open about your emotions thus far is because you are unsure whether they will be reciprocated, but the good news is that the signs all seem to point to a positive outcome if you are prepared to take the chance. A planned trip away later in the month could be disrupted because of unforeseen complications but there could be other forces at work here and you should be careful to check the small print where any insurance is concerned.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Cups CANCER June 21 – ­July 20

Your sign can sometimes appear thoughtless when it comes to your ambitions, although this isn’t through any meanness or malicious streak but simply because you tend to become so focused on what you want to achieve that you lose sight of everything else around you. The problem is that this behaviour can often leave those you love feeling isolated and alone. Try to put some thought into changing this in May or you risk losing something very precious in the long term.

You won’t believe how much better you will make people feel and you might even notice some benefits in yourself as well!

Card of the Month — The Seven of Wands 142 May 2015

LEO July 21 – August 21

It seems that you are not going to be very far away from controversy this month, with the likelihood of a current indiscretion finally making it out into the open, much to the chagrin of a loved one. Dealing with it head on is the best solution because trying to deny the obvious will only make matters worse. If you want to salvage something of the relationship, and also of your pride, then do the sensible thing and take it on the chin! A colleague’s prospective business proposal needs a little more thought before you actually invest any money but the future should turn out rosy for you so long as you are prepared to put in the work.

Card of the Month — The Three of Swords

VIRGO August 22 – September 21

This month you will you find yourself drawn closer and closer to a work colleague for whom you share an intimate affection. However, feelings could threaten to impact upon other areas and relationships in your life. It seems that no matter how hard you try to ignore it, you cannot dismiss your heart, and this issue will end up tearing you apart if you don’t address it soon. Ultimately, it’s all about what you want. Inside you know how to best resolve everything but much depends on how honest you can be with yourself. Answer that question and you’ll be well on the way to a solution.

Card of the Month — The Lovers

LIBRA September 22 – October 21

You are struggling through some of the most difficult times of your life right now and although you have resigned yourself to accepting certain restrictions and are in part aware of what lies ahead, that doesn’t mean it is going to be any easier to deal with. However, after sitting yourself down in April and accepting what you need to change in your life to make things better, you can remain confident in the knowledge that progress will bring about a positive outcome in the long run. You should take great heart from your actions because you have made some difficult decisions, which required courage and sacrifice, and eventually, you will emerge a better and stronger person because of it.

Card of the Month — The Page of Swords

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21

There are few incidents that really faze a Scorpion.

However if there is one thing that tends to get them all emotional or uptight it’s being kept out of the loop when it comes to their social life. If there’s a party, they’re normally the first in line to let their hair down and boogie on the dance floor. So, when you hear of a friend’s major “bash” you don’t appear to have been invited to you’re not likely to take it in a very dignified fashion. However, before you explode and put your foot in it, just check under the sofa or behind that wonky drawer in the kitchen. Post takes on a weird life of it’s own sometimes!

Card of the Month — The Magician

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21

You need to be careful not to start falling into the trap of taking a person’s good nature for granted because they are likely to turn without a moment’s hesitation if they feel all their efforts are being expected rather than appreciated. Whilst you might have your own opinions on the matter, you can’t force them onto the person concerned and if they don’t agree with you then you just have to live with that. There is no point in souring a relationship just for the sake of it and you would be better advised to curb any bull-headedness in favour of a more diplomatic approach. The truth is if you analyse the situation you might see that you are not completely blameless.

Card of the Month — The Moon www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisers index CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21

You have a lot going for you Capricorn but you need to be careful that someone with devious intentions doesn’t damage your ambitions as you set about planning for the future. With so much happening, the momentum of all this positive activity might mask the negative actions of a troubled woman who seeks to take out her frustrations on you. No matter how friendly she may seem, no good can come from it, so guard yourself against her disingenuous approach, because if you submit, she will destroy all the good work and progress you have made. On a more positive note, a family member’s introduction could see the start of a new relationship blossom from the 11th.

Card of the Month — Judgement

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20

You’re not at your best at the moment. There could be a multitude of reasons for this but the one standout explanation has more to do with the manipulation of others than any failing on your part. With this in mind, the last thing you need is to allow your emotions to get the better of you when it comes to a troubled relationship that has somehow lost its rhythm. Rather than fuss and worry about what you might be doing wrong, give yourself a little credit and start to analyse where your partner might be lacking. It doesn’t have to be your fault all the time and you probably already know that it isn’t!

Card of the Month — The Two of Cups

PISCES February 21 – March 20

May will see you moving with a positive spring in your step as you head towards a new position at work that you have strived to attain over the last few months. It’s going to be a busy time for you and whilst you are well aware of the responsibilities involved, there is still the chance that your enthusiasm will lead you to overdo it so try and take time out to relax. There’s little to be gained by stretching yourself to breaking point if you’re not going to be around to enjoy the fruits of your labour! Rest assured: those who matter have already noted your achievements.

Card of the Month — The Stars

ARIES March 21 – April 20

Megan Fox

FAMOUS TAURUS THIS MONTH David Beckham

Madre & Padre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Financial Institutions

Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . 128 Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC State Bank of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Home & Furnishing

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Hotels & Serviced Residences

Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Fraser Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Ramada Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Ramee International . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Ramee Monroe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Jewellery & Watches

Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 8 Asia Jewellers (Van Cleef & Arpels) . 4 Sharif Group (Lola & Grace) . . . . . . . 46 Watch Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 29 Al Hilal Group (Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25,87 Bahrain India Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Bath & Body Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Cineco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Delice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3 House of Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Intercol:IAA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Intercol:IAA (Lumia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 K Home & Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Little Princess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Par . 31 Moda Ma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Punchline Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Shakar Tailoring House . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Syed Junaid Alam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro (Hags) . . . . . . . 35

Medical & Dental Services Restaurants & Cafés Al-Mansoori Dental Centre . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . . . . 85 Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan) . . . . . . . 17

Al-Abraaj Restaurants Co. (Ahlan) . 117 Bayti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Brazil Grill Co. Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Cafe Amsterdam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Casa Mexicana Restaurant . . . . . . . 102 Chili’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Govinda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 JJ’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant . . . . 103 McDonalds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Papa John’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 RIC’s Kountry Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Others

Telecommunications

Ceram Dental Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69,71 Clero Stem Cell Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Farrell International Co. (German Skin Care Centre) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Lad Hair Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Marafie Skin & Laser Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Motoring

Air India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Having the Sun card in your reading is a little like reaching into your pocket for a five dinar note and discovering a 50 instead! As a result, any ventures, investments or projects due to take form or mature this month will exceed your expectations and deliver a significant return. Furthermore, as the Sun promotes growth, it’s also a great time for those of you thinking about beginning a new training course or a private study programme to finally sign up. Your mind is going to be feeling like a sponge, ready to soak up anything and everything thrown your way. You’ll never have a better opportunity to succeed as you do now.

Card of the Month — The Sun

Adele

Fashion & Footwear

Viva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

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

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

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

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

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

May 2015 143

lastword GEG HOPKINS We should never assume that anyone is too old to vote, or not interested, or too cognitively or physically impaired, we all have a voice that needs to be heard.

A lovely cartoon in the newspaper the other day showed a long suffering wife, sitting in the living room chair and her husband looking out the window. She says; ‘Come away from the window and stop watching the world, you know how it upsets you’.

This actually reminds one of the old couple transiting life in their own quirky way, just as old couples end up doing with gems of wisdom pouring forthwith. The old man, wearing nothing at all, wanders past the window with its open curtains and the wife chirps up; ‘For God’s sake, come away from the window, people will think I married you for your money’.

This epitomises the older generation, most of whom become tired of all the hype and ego induced scheming of today’s truly partisan world. Most of us old ‘uns see through it all, but there is nothing you can do to convince the younger, media indoctrinated masses that their lives are covertly conditioned.

Life expectancy is ever extending and no sane person wants to depart ahead of expectation, plus the world’s population is exploding in more ways than one, particularly in under-developed regions where culture and mentality deem the masses oblivious to the consequences. This presents a dilemma to the degenerate Illuminati, because in all essence ‘they’ disingenuously nurture this pool purely for the egoistic vote.

Did we mention the V word there?

Oh my goodness, there goes any chance of a garden party invite or indeed an OBE or higher.

Almost all ideology fades as one gets older, except perhaps religion where hope plays such a major role into the unknown. Now, if 144 May 2015

senior citizens see through all the smoke and mirrors and will no longer vote for such ideology or Kardashian like idolisation, then are we in danger? If so, at what stage of our lives?

Are you at risk? Old is gold and grey, but a nuisance for this ultradominate, pseudo young egocentric, egotistic establishment which controls and even micromanages the very words we are allowed to utter. You know you are old when the doctor says; ‘You’re gonna die’, and you reply; ‘Dubai? I thought I was in Bahrain’.

You know you are old when you can no longer wear leather pajamas and look back with selfpride at your hippy love-in days when chatting up the pretty girl with flowers in her hair and you claimed to be an organ donor. Half the people you meet talk to you in clichés telling you that you are not old and that you just need to lose a bit of weight, which is a near impossibility because what constitutes exercise and weight lifting, in the senior years, is just trying to stand up.

You should know you are old if you were asked to name a bird with a long neck and you answered Naomi Campbell and think it so funny you then proceed to endorse your own joke. Best of all, you know you are really old

when each time you open your mouth someone immediately responds with; ‘I can’t believe you said that’ or ‘I find that so offensive’, which nowadays legally transcends to being libellous or defamatory for every little thing.

Then it hits you that you really are old because every sentence you utter contains the word ‘nowadays’ followed by ‘we used to’.

With justified suspicion the first counter contention imposed by this rabid collective could be to somehow remove from the equation older folk who will no longer vote for them. It is not rocket science to figure out what is really in the minds of the numerous talking heads given endless platforms on the BBC. With millions from the third world now firmly ensconced in the West, all on a promise of carte blanche privilege in return for towing the party line, those across Europe who have been pulling the strings for the past 40 years or so are in a panic to counter the potential rebellion brewing.

Nervously flip-flopping like a hermaphrodite snail on its first date, the condoning media is constantly airing twisted cloaked fanatics, all trying to babble their way out of their own doing and suggesting anything which will keep them in power. Heard on the

BBC recently; a slip of the tongue or seriously dangerous arrogance, one or two such talking heads recently openly suggested that old people should be struck off the ‘Register of Electors’, meaning that they should lose their right to vote.

The host no doubt near swallowed his tongue while diving for the profanity button. Too late, out it went; but was there a backlash?

Oh please; as if! OJ Simpson’s trial was more transparent. And it goes on, just like OJ getting married again because he’d like another stab at it, the BBC will keep on pushing it as if they have ‘nothing’ to do with it.

If our impending dementia doesn’t get the better of us first, we longevity Shar Peis on Zimmer frames can clearly see the quagmire deliberately enforced upon on us over the decades by the charisma void PC collective. A collective united in controlling our thoughts and brazenly legislate it.

Sure, as of yet, this clique of wonderment cannot openly condemn old people — that would be politically incorrect – so they actually rely on dementia setting in.

Dementia, as devastating as it is, also has many advantages. Less stress for one and probably the best thing about still being active yet suffering from dementia is you get to meet new people every day. www.bahrainthismonth.com