Bahrain This Month - November 2012

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

November 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Star Performer Macy Gray

Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cherry Tree Trot Bahrain’s Artificial Reefs U-18 Karting Championship

HAPPENINGS ­ ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

Tel. 17.564444 - Fax. 17.564466 email: phodecor@batelco.com.bh Seef district, facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg.

Issue 183

Contents November 2012 Cover Story:

147 Star Performer Expect to be wowed when Macy Gray arrives in the Kingdom to offer a set of her most well-known and frequently

147

requested hits.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of November 2012:

23

34

23 Charitable Trot: One of the Kingdom’s biggest fund-raisers 30 Cultural Community: Block 338 turns into Market338 36 Irish Society: Be entertained by our Emerald Islanders 38 Go Go-Karters: Young and fearless, that’s more like it 40 Going for Gold: The annual marathon challenge is here!

44 Testing Your Endurance: A sprint triathlon for starters!

23-40 Calendar: Events during November

Spotlight:

50 A History of Values Milvin George explains how watch brand Panerai retains both its exclusivity and links to the sea, as a limited collection is launched.

56

100

52 Addressing Diabetes It seems that no matter how much attention is drawn to a healthy lifestyle and low-sugar diet, we find it hard to break old habits, as Dr Faisal explains.

Business:

55 Smooth Sailing

58

105 Bystander At BTM we were dazzled by the jewellery and watches at Jewellery Arabia and entertained at the Bahrain International Circuit by the endurance racers. There were also national days for China and Saudi Arabia, and the launch of a new sporty Maserati. In between these we took in a ‘horrible’ history lesson and soaked up the atmosphere at the new Mai Tai Lounge.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The region’s largest transhipment exhibition and conference returns this month to Bahrain after an absence of three years. Time to be contained!

56 Forging New Ground The business he runs might be 30 years old, but there’s nothing ‘old’ about running an IT company, as we discover talking to Hassan Kaiskow at Mantech Computers.

58 Enhancing an Icon The new area general manager at the Gulf Hotel Group, Ian McKie, is cautiously optimistic for 2013, with a new property on Amwaj Islands in the works.

November 2012 5

ENGINEERED IN STAINLESS STEEL AND HIGH-TECH CERAMIC Hrithik Roshan

WWW.RADO.COM

RADO D-STAR 200 AUTOMATIC

Issue 183

Contents November 2012 Discover Bahrain:

72 A Whole New World Years of exploitation might have diminished the value of

72

historic reefs and our marine life. Reef Arabia aims to redress this with a series of artificial reefs.

Downtime: 75 Taking A Fall: Not on your life!

76 Gadgets: The big picture 78 Music: Glad over glass 80 Computer Games: Dishonourable enemies 81 Websites: Free curbs 82 Apps: Expecting a joyride 83 Movies: Overtaken by paranoia

126

97

Motoring: 97 Safety and Style: Volvo V40 99 Wheels: Nissan Altima 101 Showcase: BMW 750Li

Dining: 123 Mexican Delight: Margarita Mexicana 124 Happenings: Where to dine this month 126 Feature: Grabbing a great burger 133 Showcase: Soie Chinese Restaurant

After Dark:

141

152

141 Coral Bay: DJ Shane Kehoe, Ministry of Sound 142 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 147 Showcase: Battle of the Bands finale

Showcase: 105 Consumer Report: Fit for the season 149 What’s New: Daring complexion 150 Marketplace: Latest products and services 30

36

38

165 166 167 168

www.bahrainthismonth.com

40

WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word November 2012 7

Bahrain City Centre 17172325 Seef Mall 17583230

The team

Bahrain This Month November 2012

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editors Alison Coldridge Elma Bartholomew

Dear Readers,

Staff Writer Maryam Toorani Contributors James Claire (dining), Simi Kamboj

There have been times during the course of this year when it seemed as if we were engaged in a marathon. The trials and tribulations we have endured have tested our resolve; as we enter November we are at last in touching distance of a new year.

I’ve never actually run a marathon, although I do exercise regularly. Like many of my fellow residents on the island I suffer from diabetes. I know from personal experience what Dr Faisal means, in one of our spotlight articles, about the fortitude it takes to embrace a healthy lifestyle and to maintain a sugar-free diet. It’s worth the effort!

Speaking of marathons, the annual Bahrain Marathon Relay is upon us once again and for those still sitting on the fence about whether to compete or not, my advice is simple — dither no more!

Aside from hosting the marathon relay, the Bahrain International Circuit finds itself at the centre of attention this month. The biennial Cherry Tree Trot — one of the biggest fund-raisers on the Kingdom’s calendar, as indeed is the Bahrain Marathon — takes place on November 30. There’s also the U-18 World Karting Championship, at the VIVA Karting Track, from November 8-10, which will see a plethora of budding racers from around the globe descend on the Kingdom.

The action is also ‘hot’ after dark as venues around town up the ante.

Highlights of the month include DJ Shane Kehoe, of Ministry of Sound fame, at Coral Bay, and DJ Epps of G-Unit returns to anchor the Wranglers 14th birthday bash. You can also catch the elimination rounds of the Battle of the Bands as the competition heads for its finale in early December.

There’s no shortage of spice, either, in our dining pages. Whether it’s Mexican at the Gulf Hotel or Indian at the new Lanterns restaurant in Adliya we are spoilt for choice for an evening out as we chill out in the best climate of the year. We also feature the best burgers available for those with appetites large and small.

In our business pages we speak to Ian McKie, the new area general manager for the Gulf Hotel Group in Bahrain, and Mantech Computers’ Hassan Kaiksow.

Seemingly world’s apart they both face a similar challenge — keeping a veteran of their respective industries at the cutting edge of business.

So, whatever you choose to do this month be sure to enjoy the great way of the life the Kingdom has to offer.

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

Published monthly by

Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P.O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place St., Helier Jersey JE48JJ, Channel Islands, U.K.

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

• Views expressed in this magazine by journalists

and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

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

Cover

Cover Picture: Macy Gray performs in Bahrain on December 7.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

November 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

Star Performer

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Macy Gray

Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cherry Tree Trot Bahrain’s Artificial Reefs U-18 Karting Championship

HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

Join us on Facebook If you are wondering what this image to the left is, or the one on the front cover, it’s a QR code.

To find out how to use these, read page 164.

www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth November 2012 9

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Jewellery Arabia 2012 Opening His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa officially opened the glittering Jewellery Arabia 2012 last month. The dazzling five-day event, with over 550 leading jewellers from around the world participating, was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre in Sanabis

His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa opens the expo

Mohammed Jaffar, Mayyan Jaffar, Fawzi, Nabeela, Lebanese singer superstar & brand ambassador extraordinaire for Swiss luxury watch maker Corum, Elissa Khoury & Elyana Jaffar at the Corum stand

Varma, Wasim, Jamal, Hussain & Madhu

Farooq, Shaker & Hezam

Andrew & Marcolla

Manar & Samira

Mohammed & Nagaraj

Abbas

Hassan & Ali

Abdulwahab

Ahlam, Moza, Saja, Fayyad, Rabab, Noora & Elizabeth

10 November 2012

Noor & Nadia

Ahmed

Mohammed, Ameena & Hamad

Shatha, Rana & Amani

Eleanor

Jalil, Ahmed & Amira

Karen

Alia, Faika, Sofia, Fatima & Fatima

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Saudi National Day Celebrations Under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa who attended the event, HE Dr Abdulmohsen bin Fahad Al Marek, Saudi Ambassador hosted a reception to mark the National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The event which was held at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa was attended by members of the diplomatic community and a number of dignitaries and guests

Khalifa Rumaihi

His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa is welcomed at the reception

Adel M. Al Saleh & Ahmed Al Enazi

Ahmed Al Haiki, Dr Faisal Al Nasser, Fawzan Al Nasser, Jamal & Fahaheem Al Nasser

Dr Yahya Ali Yahya, Abdul Mohsin Al Omran & Abdul Aziz Kanoo

Ebrahim Kooheji & Shaikh Mohammed

12 November 2012

Zaid, Jumana & Raed

Jawad Y. & Abdulwahab Al Hawaj

Holger

HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buanien, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

HE Dr. Abdulmohsen bin Fahad Al Marek & HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buanien at the cake cutting with diplomats

Abdulrahman, Jalil Al Ansari, Khalifa Al Dosari & Essa Al Hammadi

Khalifa Al Dosari & Khalid Kanoo

HE Dr. Abdulmohsen bin Fahad Al Marek & His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa

Dr Zaid, Dr Mazen, Adel & Dr Khalid

Ali Arjani, Hassan Ebrahim & Faisal Hassan

Mehdi, Shahafeez & Paween

Wedad with Afnan Al Zayani

Admiral John Millar, Abdulrahman Al Shehri & Alysha Haran

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Chinese National Day Celebrations HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador hosted a reception to celebrate Chinese National Day. The event which was attended by, HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Atiyatallah Al Khalifa, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buanien, Minister of State for Foreign Affair, HE Samira Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs, HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani, Parliament Chairman, diplomats & VIP guests was held at the Grand Ambassador Suite, The Diplomat Radisson Blu, Residence & Spa

Wang Yi & HE Li Chen

Guo, Wang Yi, HE Li Chen & Chen

HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buanien, HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Atiyatallah Al Khalifa, HE Samira Rajab, HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani & HE Li Chen with members of the diplomatic corps at the cake cutting

Ameer, Franceso, Panos & Ebrahim

Angela, Nada & May

Nabeel Ajoor, Ahmed Al Bassam, Talal Al Mannai & Nasser Alarayedh

Zoe & Ada

Robert, catherine & Li Yan

Helen & Mary

14 November 2012

HE Ghanim bin Fadel Al Buanien & HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Atiyatallah Al Khalifa

Vera

Ashraf

Bonnie, Bridget, Mala & Milena

Claire, Yuki & Emma

Pip & Steve

Khalifa Rumaihi

Joonha Yu

Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Jin, Chen & Liu

Abdulla

Mr Khan

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BSH 10th Anniversary Bahrain Specialist Hospital celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special gathering that was held at Al Khayma, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa in Seef District. The celebration was attended by over 250 guests, dignitaries and members of the media. HE Dr Sadiq Al-Shehabi, Health Minister & Shaikh Abdulrahman Bin Ali Al Turki, Chairman of BSH, senior management & staff members attended the event that was held last month

Shaikh Abdulrahman being welcomed by Hamid Al Zayani

Dr Obaida, Dr Amar & Dr Ghada

Dr Kasim Ardati, Hamid Al Zayani, HE Dr Sadiq Al Shehabi, Mahfooda Al Zayani, Dr Najah, Mrs Shehabi & Ala'a Al Zayani

Najmeddine & Salam

Adib, Gavin, Hussain, Shaikh Abdulrahman, Ehab & Ebrahim

Ajith & Jude

Dr & Mrs Alsaid

Bala, Saeed & Mohammed

16 November 2012

Khalid & Jumana

Mohzan & Farah

Dr Hala & Dr Sawsan

Prem & Zelda

Sana & Mary

Fareed & Nasser

Jehan, Lama & Aya

Dr Abdali

Dr Tariq & Fouad Al Jishi

Fouad Ali

Mohammed

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Horrible Histories Show A theatrical performance about the history of Barmy people in the UK was held at the Cultural Hall, next to Bahrain National Museum. Following acclaimed productions of Terrible Tudors, Vile Victorians, Awful Egyptians and Ruthless Romans, Birmingham Stage Company presented the world premiere of Horrible Histories - Barmy Britain, set in London. With blood, battles, murder and mayhem, the play explored stories from Roman, Tudor, Stuart, Georgian, Victorian and First World War periods and featured famous characters such as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, Florence Nightingale & General Earl Haig

Rehan & Ivan

Alya, Daniel, Rosa & Alison

Akram, Tanya, Ayah, Mai & Dina

Ali & Zaid

Lily & Blythe

Sina, Carina, Zaid & Sara

Keri, Julia & Jonathon

Ayra & Noura

Ethan & Greg

Jennifer, Shirley & Dan

Yousef, Fiona & Faye

Stephanie & Erin

Charlaine & Chirag

Sarah, Ellie, Yara, Ella & Tara

Shayne, Declan, Shannon & Shubika

18 November 2012

Neal Foster & Alison Fitzjohn enact a scene

Mike & Sorrell

India, Pireh & Noor

Lynette & Arthur

Peter, Robert & Dan

Riva & Sanah

Ayman, Emily & Zahran

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Massimo Dutti Fashion Show Massimo Dutti held an exclusive fashion show for Capital Club members and Massimo Dutti VIP customers.

The show was held at the Capital Club, Bahrain Financial Harbour last month

Dalia & Marise

Mala & HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Pierre, Laurence, Christophe & Isabelle

Rowena & Omran

Dr Beulah, Iffat, Maria, Alexia & David

Jamal, Dilip, Ramya & Fadi

Bader Al Kooheji & Hussain Haji

20 November 2012

Sherif & Kiki

Elmer & Leslie

Hassan Abduldhaffar & Hakeem Al Ahmed

Dr Michel Mansoor & Dr Akram Khairy

Models at the event

Ahmed, Fatima & Ziad

Brendan Lynch

Charmaine, Andrea & Shahnaz

Husain Al A'ali & Talal Almoayed

Manal & Maha

Tolu & Bahaa

Mikati Hamid & Snej

Bernard & Sari

Zaid & Iro

One of the models

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happeningsthismonth When? November 30 | Event? Cherry Tree Trot | Venue? BIC

A Charitable Trot You don’t need to be an experienced runner, or even incredibly fit, to take part in this month’s huge fundraising event. All you need is some charitable spirit.

The Kingdom plays host to numerous events throughout the year, which can only be a good thing, but one of the most ‘famous’ has to be the American Women’s Association’s Cherry Tree Trot.

The name in itself is memorable; taken from a famous George Washington legend. “The first president of the USA is said to have cut down his father’s cherry tree and when asked if he was responsible he could not lie,” explains AWA Cherry Tree Trot chairwoman, Laila Hussain. “This is a reference to the belief that George Washington never told a lie.”

The event is a charity run created to help those who are physically and mentally challenged in Bahrain.

“Of course our main purpose is to raise money for this cause that the AWA supports wholeheartedly; however, we also promise that it is a fun day out for all involved,” Laila states.

“We not only raise money for the disabled but include them in the event.”

This all-inclusive race invites able-bodied people as well as those who are physically and mentally challenged to take part.

“Our last Cherry Tree Trot was in 2010, where over 400 people participated from 18 different homes and schools,” explains Also this month

Laila. “Plus, there were 500 able runners and 130 local companies and their employees supported the race providing T-shirts, food, beverages, medals and trophies. Furthermore, 100 Bahraini retail stores, restaurants, airlines and companies donated prizes. It really is an event where everyone does what they can.”

In 2010, the event raised BD52,000 — a figure that the AWA hopes to boost to BD60,000 this year. “This will not be possible without the help of our corporate sponsors and generous donations from people in Bahrain. We encourage everyone who can to get involved and help raise as much money as possible,” Laila urges.

The AWA supports numerous charities with the funds raised from the event. “To name a few, we donate to Ria School, the Children and Mother Welfare Society, BA Dream Flight, Bahrain Disabled Sport Federation, Migrant Workers Protection Society, Saudi Bahraini Institute for the Blind, Friendship Society for the Blind and SNEHA,” lists Laila.

The Cherry Tree Trot was established over 31 years ago as a way to raise a considerable amount of money for charity. “We had not predicted this, but it turned out to be the biggest fundraising event in the AWA’s calendar,” Laila divulges.

“However we continue to hold it every two years to do as much as we can for the disabled community in the Kingdom.”

E Call 38 884-924 or visit www.awabahrain.org.

World days Take a moment to think of the world days that occur this month.

When? November 12 Event? Pneumonia day Demand action in the fight against pneumonia.

When? November 14 Event? Diabetes day Find out about the issues facing the global diabetes community.

When? November 15 Event? Philosophy day Educate yourself on history’s great philosophers.

When? November 16 Event? Tolerance day Practise respecting, appreciating and accepting fellow humans.

When? November 20 Event? Children’s day Initiate action to protect and promote the welfare of children.

When? November 25 Event? Elimination of violence against women day Help fight violence against women on this day of action.

30 x Arts & Culture - 36 x Clubs & Societies - 38 x Teens & Kids - 40 x Sports & Recreation

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 23

When? November 1-3 Event? Fashion and beauty sale Venue? BIECC Ashraf BGDC will hold a grand bazaar selling all kinds of consumer goods.

E Call 17 584-258.

When? November 3 Event? Walkathon Venue? Dohat Arad Park The closing Think Pink for breast cancer event is a 3km walk that costs BD2 for entry.

E Call 39 688-619.

When? November 6-8 Event? Career Expo Venue? BIECC Targeted at recent high-school graduates, this expo will offer career advice and guidance.

E Call 13 666-777.

When? November 7-8 Event? Ecosystem management workshop Venue? Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage An examination of the relationship between Bahrain’s oyster beds and the ecosystem.

E Email oct2012@moc.gov.bh.

When? November 9 Event? Walkathon Venue? Dohat Arad Park Al Rashid Group has organised its fourth charity walk in aid of diabetes.

E Call 38 377-424.

When? November 15 Event? Irresistible India Venue? Sofitel Thalassa Sea and Spa Celebrate the magic of India with colourful dance performances and traditional food.

E Call 39 411-812 and 39 629-322.

When? November 17 Event? First aid workshop Venue? Central Galleria, Bahrain City Centre Learn how to save a life with basic first aid and CPR skills from experts.

E Call 17 351-450.

When? November 30 Event? Festive sale Venue? St Christopher’s Senior School Both the students and their parents will be selling goods ideal as Christmas gifts.

E Call 17 598-493.

24 November 2012

When? November 15 | Event? Irresistible India | Venue? Sofitel Thalassa Sea and Spa

When? November 8-10 Event? Bahrain Bike Week Venue? Amwaj Islands Bikers from around the Kingdom will take part in competitions, shows and activities.

E Visit www.bahrainbikeweek.com.

Celebrating India By popular demand, the ‘Irresistible India Gala Dinner’ returns on Thursday, November 15.

“This event will include storytelling through short dance performances by the renowned Abhinava Dance troupe,” says Mala Kumar, wife of the Indian ambassador. “This ensemble seemed a perfect fit because, besides being rooted in the Indian dance tradition of Kathak and Bharathanatyam, the troupe has evolved its own distinct style of presentation by fusing ethnic and modern genres of dancing.”

The group’s musical compositions mix traditional Indian classical music with a wide range that includes jazz, Spanish and world music. For the first time Bahrain will witness this creative and aesthetically pleasing spectacle. Following the performance will be a sumptuous dinner and music from an international DJ. “We have received a lot of requests after the success of the first event to have another evening showcasing India through its rich arts. We wanted to maintain the right momentum along with keeping it elegant, memorable and fun,” explains Mala.

Tickets are priced at BD25 each and BD250 for a table. All proceeds will be donated to a local charity.

“We are leaving no stone unturned in putting up a show that will give the audience an unforgettable evening,” concludes Renuka Ravindran, managing partner of La Bonn V, the event organiser.

E Call 39 411-812 and 39 629-322.

When? November 8-10 | Event? Bahrain Bike Week | Venue? The Lagoon, Amwaj Islands

When? Throughout November Event? Book swap Venue? Costa Coffee, Amwaj Lagoon and Seef Mall If you love to read, swap your favourite novels for someone else’s free of charge.

E Call 17 247-121.

When? November 29 | Event? Opera performance | Venue? Bahrain National Museum

happeningsthismonth

A Night at the Opera Opera legend Placido Domingo will make his Bahrain debut this month. His performance, alongside sopranos Angel Blue, Micaela Oeste, and special guest Ghada Shbeir concludes the month of theatre within the Manama Capital of Arab Culture programme for 2012.

Known for the command and versatility of his voice, Domingo is one of the most celebrated artists of our time with a repertoire that boasts over 140 stage roles, extensive recordings, and countless awards and honors that include 12 Grammy Awards.

Tickets can be purchase at Virgin Megastore at Bahrain City Centre.

E Visit www.manamaculture2012.bh.

Hot Wheels The three-day Bahrain Bike Week festival is this month, including a huge convoy of bikers riding from The Lagoon in Amwaj to the BIC and back again.

The event hopes to attract participants from biker clubs in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and the UAE. There will also be events for children and judges flown in from around the region to preside over various events.

For the less obsessive bikers, there will be friendly competitions such as slow races and cruise events to test the skills of the rider. E Call 38 450-055.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? Throughout November | Event? Educational activities | Venue? Bahrain Science Centre

BAHRAIN SCIENCE CENTRE

A Playful Approach This month one of the Kingdom’s educational hubs looks into the importance of fun for both kids and adults.

A thriving learning spot is proving that science doesn’t have to be boring. The Bahrain Science Centre (BSC) professionally integrates fun into a child’s educational process. By offering games that stimulate thinking, the centre encourages kids to open their minds to the excitement of learning.

The centre regularly hosts debates, activities, workshops and educational games. These events give children the chance to acquire some hands-on experience with topics including fish dissection and static electricity.

Last month BSC put visitors’ brains in motion by providing science-themed art activities, shows, animal-themed storytelling and open discussions.

Participants can also look forward to the ‘Experiment of the Week’ wherein children complete their own experiments under the supervision of a science teacher. Furthermore, if you think you are brave enough you can take part in the night time ‘Scary Skeletons’ exhibition, with only a torch as your guide.

The Importance of playing Play is as a vital human activity, as important as breathing and dreaming, and as beneficial as eating and sleeping. Its emotional and social rewards are countless, especially in today’s fast-paced, high-tech world, and it should be a vital part of our lives.

For children, engaging in recreation is the first draft of life.

They can learn how to think, make decisions, count, overcome obstacles, work in teams, develop tactics and employ strategies.

It can help them experience victory as well as defeat.

26 November 2012

Recent research by the British Psychological Society (BPS) has revealed that children who do not play may be at a disadvantage in terms of their ability to concentrate, learn and adapt to favourable and unfavourable circumstances.

Neuroscientists have found that the way in which a kid’s brain is hard-wired during the vital first five years of life may partly be determined by the kinds of games they enjoy. Today parents need to realise that three-dimensional games involving real objects could be far better for brain development than a twodimensional computer game.

For adults, the situation is similar. Men and women who play often have a competitive advantage over peers as they retain their child-like curiosity and typically become open-minded, innovative problem solvers.

Many companies do prefer to employ playful people because of their rapid response times to new needs and quick reaction to new challenges. Typical ‘playful’ companies include Apple, Google and Virgin.

E Call 17 686-466 or visit ww.bahrainsciencecentre.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? November 14 | Event? Talent management seminar | Venue? Gulf Hotel PITMAN TRAINING

Developing Talent Take part in a seminar that will advance your company by focusing your attention on the progression of individuals.

John Mattrone

Chester Elton

Pitman Training will host a talent management seminar this month conducted by two of the top 30 business speakers worldwide; Chester Elton and John Mattrone. Both will be appearing in the Kingdom for the first time to present ways to reinvigorate management teams.

The event is aimed at helping you fill your team with inspiration, energy and progressive ideas to prepare your existing and emerging leaders for the future.

“I am very excited to present my programme ‘Growing and Developing a World-Class Talent Management Organisation’ in Bahrain,” says John. “I look forward to sharing my latest research, experiences and ideas from my newly released book Talent Leadership.”

John will discuss how top companies in the world develop their talent, giving attendees the chance to discover how their company compares with the ‘best of the best’.

Similarly, Chester will provide participants with valuable tools needed to positively impact a business and its employees.

“I have learned from some of the world’s finest companies and know how to create a high-performance organisation,” states Chester. “My workshop will be based on my New York Times’ bestseller All In: How the Best Companies Develop a Culture of Belief and Deliver Big Results.”

E Visit www.pitman.bh.

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Residence Inn By Marriott Manama Juffair Opening Under the patronage of HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Culture, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held to mark the opening of the Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair - the first Residence Inn in the Middle East. The event was also attended by HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Capital Governor, Shaikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, owner & Alex Kyriakidis, president and managing director, Marriott International, Middle East & Africa

HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa cuts the ribbon watched by dignitaries

Sam Van Campenhout, HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, HE Shaikha Mai, Shaikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Khalifa & Alex Kyriakidis

Jalil Al Ansari

28 November 2012

Ibrahim, Deema & Mark

Nabeel Ajoor

Jassim Al Zayani & Hassan Bokhammas

Oriadna, A.Rahman & Sandra

Mirza & Radhi

Teudor & Tony

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE 00973 17179328, THE CENTRE 00973 17703874

happeningsartsculture When? November 29-December 15 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? Block 338

When? November 1-2 Event? Exhibition and lecture Venue? La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art See Martin Yeoman’s artworks and listen to a lecture from Tim Mackintosh-Smith.

E Call 17 230-123.

When? November 8-10 Event? Exhibition Venue? Ella Art Gallery Mesmerising pieces of Hindu God Ganesha will be displayed for just two days.

E Call 17 292-815 or 39 073-299.

When? November 10-December 15 Event? Exhibition Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre and Café ‘A Slice of Life’ will feature the latest colourful paintings from Tonya Vollertsen.

E Call 17 612-576.

A Cultural Community Adliya’s hot-spot area will be transformed into a creative hub this month as artists of all mediums congregate to present their works.

Bahrain may be small but it has a thriving artistic and cultural scene that is constantly progressing. Events such as Market338, to be held this month and next, are instrumental in displaying the works of established and emerging artists.

Organised by Al Riwaq Art Space, Market338 will be held over three consecutive weekends to present differing art forms whilst giving members of the public opportunity to purchase goods.

“It is a modern perception of a very old idea. We are offering entrepreneurs a venue that could connect them to a broader cultural scene,” says Kelly Hubert, event organiser at Al Riwaq.

The event, held once before, has been re-invented to offer visitors a more interactive and quality experience.

“We are trying to create an identity, so it won’t be just a market. Higher-level vendors are selected and workshops and lectures will be on offer to create all kinds of awareness. There will be amazing people from around the region along with established locals,” says Mercedes Gonzalez de Garay, manager at Al Riwaq.

This year’s focus will be architectural design but the exhibition will still act as a strategic platform for the promotion of all design cultures in the area. Some of the products on display will include fashion, jewellery and accessories, glass, ceramics, furniture and original art works.

30 November 2012

Additionally, Market338 will showcase live music performances and talks on current topics of contemporary design and its related disciplines. “These programmes are aimed at addressing the opportunities and challenges of creating a local design identity, as well as introducing innovative projects that overstep the limits of the purely commercial,” says Kelly.

Also included in the event’s line-up are two specially commissioned design projects. A Dubai-Beirut based design group will be working with local children and youths to build two outdoor playgrounds using natural and recycled materials.

“It will be catered to people of all ages. Charity stalls will also be available and for anyone who wants to be a part of this initiative we always accept volunteers,” continues Kelly.

More of Block 338’s ground will be covered, spanning down the street leading up to the park. “We want people to come in with their eyes wide open, to be active, challenge themselves and move boundaries,” adds Mercedes.

Boosting the creative economy Market338 will serve as an important forum for creating the necessary conditions to ensure the professional development of creative entrepreneurship in Bahrain. Al Riwaq hopes to develop cutting-edge products and to forge broader regional and international networks for collaboration and production.

“We hope to professionalise design in its various manifestations and ultimately give Bahrainis the necessary tools to better compete globally,” Kelly notes.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? November 11-December 3 Event? Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Faika AlHassan will be showcasing work based on the Arabian hat ‘Tarboush’.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? November 11-17 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain Arts Centre Mary-Anne Wright Van Ross will showcase her latest collection of balletic art.

E Visit www.wrightvanross.com.

When? November 16 Event? Concert Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Nresh Iyer will perform a charity concert to raise money for special needs children.

E Call 39 681-058.

When? November 21-27 Event? Group exhibition Venue? Arts Centre Don’t miss an event that brings together 41 Bahraini female artists under one roof.

E Call 77 442-222.

When? November 29-December 15 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Block 338 The eagerly awaited Market 338 is back for another round of thought provoking art.

E Call 17 717-441.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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of my busauditing practices iness b) Learn to electronicsubmit tenders ally c) Get bu siness imp rovement advice d) Receive funds for f equipmen arming t “ Tamkeen is empowe rin Bahrain to be more p g enterprises in roductive financial s throu upp Bahraini Fa ort programmes. I c gh h rmers Sup port progra ose mme.”

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Visit www.ta mkeen.bh or call 17 383333

When? November 21-27 | Event? Group exhibition | Venue? Arts Centre

Girl Power The Bahraini Female Artists Exhibition (BFA) is back this month for its second edition. Since its launch last year, the event has become an exciting highlight in the regional arts calendar.

Backed with great enthusiasm from local supporters, the event will bring together some of the most established Bahraini women artists on the island. More than 40 artists are set to participate, all featuring their unique styles, and organisers are planning for a bigger and better than ever turn out.

Organised by Bahraini artist Nadine Alshaikh, owner of Nadine Gallery, the exhibition is titled ‘Pretty Fearless Minds’.

“I don’t think the show has anything to do with feminism but women are under-represented in galleries and institutions,” says Nadine. “Today there are many talented female artists. They often don’t receive the same amount of attention as male artists and deserve more.”

The participants specialise in different artistic media and will present works made from a variety of materials. The artworks featured will be contemporary, cultural, sculptures and installations, ideal for the serious buyer and art enthusiast as well as for the casual observer to browse and view.

“The BFA will be a great opportunity for visitors who are new to the industry and keen to learn more about it and also for curators, collectors and artists alike. This is an exhibition for everyone,” continues Nadine. E Call 77 442-222.

When? November 10-December 15 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre and Café

happeningsartsculture

A Thousand Faces Tonya Vollertsen will be showcasing her latest collection of paintings under the theme ‘A Slice of Life’. The collection will feature a variety of the artist’s works, including a number of portraits depicting some of the people the artist has painted. Doors open from 4-6pm.

E Call 17 612-576.

When? November 8-10 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Ella Art Gallery

When? November 1-2 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art

Rhythmic Sketching Award-winning artist Martin Yeoman will be in town for an exclusive solo exhibition, displaying his poetic drawings. Martin’s work has been showcased worldwide and can be found in major royal, public and

private collections including those of Her Majesty the Queen of England.

Additionally, the artist is the illustrator of Tim-Mackintosh-Smith’s Travels of Ibn Battutah. Ticket holders will have the opportunity to attend a special lecture by Tim Mackintosh-Smith on the opening night.

E Call 17 230-123.

Let There Be Light Ella Art Gallery will be playing host to Geetu Kalani’s latest paintings during November. Titled ‘Wisdom and Light’ the collection will showcase abstract paintings of the Hindu God Ganesha with varied perspectives on light.

The collection will include works in oils and acrylics, mixed media and experimental works. The doors will be open from 10am to 1pm and from 3.30pm to 8pm.

E Call 17 292-815 or 39 073-299.

32 November 2012

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsartsculture When? November 17-21 | Event? The Days of Russian Culture | Venue? Bahrain National Museum and Cultural Hall

From Russia with Love If you don’t know much about the world’s largest country, a festival this month provides you with an artistic insight into what Russia has to offer.

34 November 2012

The art, music and culture of Russia will be celebrated this month during a five-day festival. Organised by the Russian Federation Embassy here in Bahrain, the event will showcase a dance group, orchestra and two art exhibitions whilst boosting business ties between the two counties.

“The embassy is very enthusiastic in arranging the Days of Russian Culture and we hope it will become one of the most remarkable events in the Russian-Bahraini cultural cooperation and enhance bilateral relations in general,” explains HE Victor Smirnov, the Russian Federation ambassador. “I believe that the festival will be of great interest to the people of Bahrain.”

The event will begin at 8pm on November 17 with a majestic musical concert. The Horn Orchestra of Russia will perform “Higher than Mountains”. Based in St Petersburg, the orchestra will reprise versions of world-renowned classics, in addition to scores by contemporary composers, church music and military band music.

Complementing the music will be the Dagestan State Academic Folk Dance Group, ‘Lezginka’. Having choreographed over 100 dances in its 60 years of existence, the company has travelled the world to acquaint the audience with the customs of Dagestan.

If you don’t manage to make it to the first evening of the festival, you needn’t worry as the Horn Orchestra will be performing for two more evenings.

On November 18 the group will play the “The Pipes of Victory”, followed the next evening by a compilation of popular music from European and Russian composers.

November 20 will signal the end of the ‘live’ events, with the dance group returning to the Cultural Hall’s stage with “Legends of Dagestan”.

In addition to the performances, two art exhibitions will be available to view throughout the five-day event. The first will display a number of traditional Ossetia handicrafts, providing a glimpse into the trades of Russia.

Various forms of technology will be evident, including pottery, national costumes and sewing. This exchange of culture is important to the embassy following an initiative to display Bahraini works in Russia.

“The Days of Russian Culture is inspired by joint efforts to bring the Bahraini archeological exhibition to the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg,” the ambassador continues. “It was opened on July 2, 2012, in the prescence of HRH Shaikha Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.”

The second exhibition will display photographic works.

“Space” will provide a unique view of earth from space. A number of different shots from cosmonauts Oleg Kotov and Sergei Krikalev will show the true beauty of our planet, with images focusing on continents, mountain ranges and glaciers.

E Call 39 453-907.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Services from these ministries are now available via the National Contact Center on 8000 8001 Getting in touch with the Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Industry & Commerce and Ministry of Social Development is now as simple as calling the eGovernment National Contact Center on 8000 8001.

Now you can do everything from getting updates on your housing application status, check your commercial registration status or get your financial assistance queries answered, all via a phone call!

Don’t walk to the ministries. Talk to the ministries.

happeningsclubssocieties When? November 15-17 | Event? Bahrain Irish Festival | Venue? Various

When? November 2 Event? Crystal Ball Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Support the Migrant Workers Protection Society at this grand dance and dinner.

E Call 17 827-895.

When? November 3 Event? Craft Fair Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Shop for hand-crafted Christmas presents at the American Women’s Association’s fair.

E Call 38 884-924 or visit www. awabahrain.org.

When? November 8 Event? Poppy Ball Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel The Bahrain British Business Forum is hosting a black tie ball in aid of charity.

E Email bbbfevents@batelco.com.bh.

When? November 10 Event? Charity Bazaar Venue? Country Mall The Tree of Life Society is hosting its first-ever fundraising sale this month.

E Call Visit www.treeoflife.org.

Let’s Hear it for Ireland!

When? November 13 Event? Work/life balance workshop Venue? TBC Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy will advise and coach attendees at this Bizladies seminar.

E Call 17 590-135.

Alison Coldridge The Bahrain Irish Society is hosting a grand knees-up this month; you are invited to celebrate Ireland’s culture in style with music, sports, networking and, of course, partying!

The festive season may seem far off but people of all ages and nationalities have reason to celebrate this month as the infamous Bahrain Irish Festival returns.

“Whether you have any ties to Ireland or not, this festival has something for everyone,” states James Kennedy, chairman of the Irish Society, when asked why people should attend this notorious event. “Put simply, it is a festival in the truest form; a massive party and celebration. It’s the ‘go-to event’ of the year.”

The event, which was launched six years ago, is organised by the Bahrain Irish Society, Arabian Celts Gaelic Football Club and the Bahrain Rugby Football Club. It has always been popular amongst the expat community in Bahrain.

“We originally established it as a way for the Irish population of Bahrain to celebrate their proud traditions through culture and sport,” adds James. “Inclusive of networking events, the festival generates business ties between Bahraini and Irish companies, further boosting the prosperous relationship that the two nations enjoy.”

This year’s celebrations will last for three days; plenty of time to include trading opportunities, sport competitions, musical entertainment and much more.

“First up we have a business forum event at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel on November 15. Guest speakers will include representatives of Connect Ireland and Enterprise Ireland as well as the Gaelic Athletic Association, all flying into Bahrain for the event,” explains James. Festivities on this evening will

36 November 2012

James Kennedy

include a series of presentations to those who have contributed to the Gaelic Games in Bahrain over the last 20 years.

The next day will kick off with the Middle East Gaelic Games at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club. “Some 30 men’s and women’s Gaelic football teams from around the Gulf region will descend on the rugby club to compete for the respective Middle East cups,” James notes.

Additionally, there will be an exhibition hurling match on November 16 as well as a full programme of off-field entertainment. “This will culminate in a live performance from legendary rockers and cult heroes “The Saw Doctors”, who are travelling over from Ireland for the event,” he divulges.

The festival will conclude on November 17 with a farewell breakfast and party at JJ’s Irish Restaurant, featuring live entertainment from the Paddyman. “This is one performance not to be missed,” James advises.

The organisers haven’t forgotten the little ones; the festival is inclusive of a full children’s programme, which will take place alongside the Gaelic games on November 16.

“We will have a number of children taking part in dance performances and, for the first time, an exhibition Gaelic football match,” says James. It sounds like there is plenty of activity for all ages to enjoy! E Call 39 400-603.

When? November 15-17 Event? Bahrain Irish Festival Venue? Bahrain Rugby and Football Club Musical performances, sport competitions and lots of fun are guaranteed at this event.

E Call 39 400-603.

When? November 22 Event? Gala dinner Venue? Capital Club Bizladies members will enjoy a lavish spread at this dinner.

E Call 17 590-135.

When? November 30 Event? Cherry Tree Trot Venue? BIC Gather a team to take part in this annual run alongside inspirational disabled people.

E Visit www.awabahrain.org.

When? November 30 Event? Concert Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Over 60 singers will perform John Rutter and Vivaldi’s ‘Glorias’ .

E Visit www.manamasingers.com.

When? November 30 Event? Festive sale Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Complex Get ready to spend at the Bahrain Rotary Club’s popular festive fair this month.

E Call 17 740-146.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningskidsteens When? November 8-10 | Event? Karting championship | Venue? VIVA Karting Track

Go Go-Karters!

Forget racing cars; this month all the action revolves around karting as some of the Kingdom’s most talented young drivers display their talent in two thrilling championships.

This month, Bahrain will be hosting the third and final round of an exhilarating karting race for youths. Strictly for under-18s, the 2012 CIK-FIA World Karting Championship and Academy Trophy will present the skill of the top young drivers today.

Racing fans will be able to witness about 160 drivers from around the world race for the top spot in this adrenalin-fuelled event. Following the first two exciting rounds in Portugal and France, Bahrain’s closing races will reveal who the real international champions.

Nearly 90 of the participants are on the provisional entry list for the world championship, while another 50 or so will be battling it out in the Academy Trophy races.

Bahraini motoring talent Those attending will be able to cheer on some of the Kingdom’s finest young drivers as four Bahraini karters take to the tracks.

Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa and Adeeb Kuzbar will be representing Team Bahrain in the Karting Championship and Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa will be participating in the Academy Trophy. Plus, Abdulla Al Thawadi will be racing on behalf of the Saudi Falcons Team.

38 November 2012

“I am certain that we will enjoy plenty of high-level racing this month, with young guys who will become brand names in another five or six years’ time,” says Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, BIC chief executive.

The event, organised in co-operation with the Bahrain Motor Federation, will be a spectacular addition to the BIC’s impressive calendar. Just last month, the BIC hosted the Middle East’s very first Le Mans-style endurance race.

“Now, we’re gearing up for what will be the first of many worldclass karting races, and the fact that it is an international event makes the occasion even more special,” Shaikh Salman explains.

Aside from the racing action, there will be plenty of entertainment for all family members to enjoy off-track.

Refreshment stalls and activities and games for kids will be on hand.

“We look forward to showcasing our top-class facility and giving our guests a taste of our world-renowned hospitality for yet another memorable occasion,” adds Shaikh Salman.

The championship will be the first major international race to be held at the track since it was formally opened earlier this year. Entrance to the general public will be free of charge on all days. Paddock tickets costing BD10 will be available to allow holders access to the paddock area where they can meet with teams and drivers.

When? November 1-7 Event? Show Venue? Lost Paradise of Dilmun Witness the skill of the Romanian artists at this acrobalance show.

E Call 17 845-100.

When? November 3 and 10 Event? Mini Tennis Tournament Venue? JC’s Tennis Academy Little ones can test out their rackets in a series of tennis tournaments this month.

E Call 17 233-111.

When? November 8-10 Event? Karting championship Venue? VIVA Karting Track Be there as the region’s best young racers vie for first place.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? November 15-16 Event? Fair Venue? Indian School Enjoy two days of shows, games and food at this annual fair.

E Call 17 684-166.

E Call 17 450-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Learn while you play

“ You are a rocket scientist, you just don’t know it yet! ” Building 334, Road 109, Riyadh Avenue, Block 801, Isa Town 8:00 am - 1:00 pm 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Phone : 176 86466

The perfect venue for stretching your imagination and creativity with hands-on exhibits and workshops that engage whole families. www.bahrainsciencecentre.com

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S T U D I O S

happeningssportsrecreation When? November 16 | Event? Bahrain Marathon Relay | Venue? Start and finish at the BIC

When? November 2-11 Event? Women’s football tournament Venue? Khalifa Sports City Gym Cheer on the ladies in a women’s five-a-side football championship.

E Call 17 729-563.

When? November 9 Event? Charity swim Venue? The Ritz-Carlton Partake in a day of fun with the hotel’s 1km annual charity swim challenge.

E Call 33 282-182.

When? November 9 Event? Olympic triathlon Venue? Al Jazira beach Part two of the Bahrain Triathlon includes a 1.5km swim, 40km bike ride and 10km run.

E Call 39 132-102 or email adnan.alqassab@gmail.com.

When? November 16 Event? Bahrain Marathon Relay Venue? Start and finish at the BIC Gather some sponsorship and run for your cause in the annual Bahrain Marathon Relay.

E Call 39 624-415.

Going for Gold Alison Coldridge The Olympics may be over for another four years but the Kingdom’s most prolific running competition should keep you enthused!

You may see an increased number of runners out and about this month as they train for Bahrain’s most recognised running race.

The 2012 edition of the Bahrain Marathon Relay takes place on November 16 and up to 130 teams of 16 participants are expected to take part, all in the name of fitness and charity.

“This is the 32nd year running of the relay and we have high hopes for the amount of money we can raise,” says Jackie Beedie, vice-chairwoman of the event.

“We had the most runners participate in 2008 — almost 3,000.

We hope this year that we can match that figure with lots of people returning to run and new participants,” she states.

And that could be a possibility as at the time this interview was conducted almost 90 teams had already signed up.

Participants as young as 12 are permitted to take part, providing that they have trained and are in a good state of health, and this will increase the number of contestants.

“The route is 48 km, which is broken down into 16 legs of approximately 3 km each. This means that both amateur runners

40 November 2012

and teenagers can get involved to test their personal fitness and raise as much sponsorship as possible,” explains Jackie.

“We start and finish at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) and the rest of the route follows roads through the desert between the BIC and Awali,” she continues.

Those who don’t wish or aren’t able to take part can help the cause by sponsoring a team.

“The Bahrain Round Table organises the event each year and decides where the profits should be spent. We use the funds for a number of charitable projects during the year; we pay the printing costs of the greeting cards designed each year by the SNEHA Institute and we donate to the Mission to Seafarers, the Palm Association and various building projects among Bahraini villages,” Jackie outlines.

Those attending the event, either as a participant or spectator, can indulge in refreshments at the food stands in addition to letting the little ones have fun with various activities, including a bouncy castle and face painting.

“The relay is always a fantastic day out for all. The atmosphere is excitable, the charitable spirit is high and the weather will be lovely and cool — the perfect temperature for a spot of exercise.

So, sign up and get your running shoes on!” says Jackie.

E Call 39 624-415.

When? November 24-26 Event? Golf competition Venue? Royal Golf Club Flaunt your skills on the golf course for the fourth King Hamad golf championship.

E Call 17 750-777.

Bahrain Women’s Games events When? November 4-8 Event? Shooting championship Venue? Shooting range in Al Raffa Don’t miss this event to see which woman can hit the mark every time.

When? November 6 Event? Bocce championship Venue? Bahrain Disabled Sports Federation A chance to see who in Bahrain is skilled at this form of bowls.

When? November 14-21 Event? Futsal tournament Venue? Khalifa Sports City Gym Watch the ladies battle it out in this football spin-off competition.

When? November 17-18 Event? Open Athletics Championship Venue? St Christopher’s School Long-jump, discus, high-jump and hurdles will be among the activities at this event.

When? November 18 Event? Marathon Venue? Princess Sabeeka Park Ladies, put on your running shoes to prove how fast you can go.

E Call 17 176-666.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Seef Mall +973 16686239

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6 Hours Of Bahrain Endurance Race The 6 Hours of Bahrain Endurance Race was held at the Bahrain International Circuit last month. It was created for the FIA World Endurance Championship, and was held for the first time in Bahrain as the sixth round of the 2012 World Endurance Championship

Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa

Ahmed, Abdulla, Saad & Fmany

Shaikha & Hussain

Shubha, Aditya & Sundar

Leonie, Dana & Thorsten

Salman, Maysa, Suha, Mirna & Sergio

Layla & Mahmood

Hawra, Shaima & Ruqaya

Liona, Silvice, Alina & Alexandra

Charlie, Steve & Georgia

Jack, Tyler, Stuart & Aidan

Carl, Almanda & Alzannel

Fariha, Najia & Amjad

Adel, Farah & Rakan

Heidi, Liam, Saijo & Mark

42 November 2012

Mo, Mahmood & Hisham

Ali, Hasan & Ali

Gopal & family

Dorna, India & Isabelle

Dave, Kathleen & Joy

Dave & Neil

Ahmed & Sami

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Louise & Nick

6 Hours Of Bahrain Endurance Race

Marie-Astrid & Florent

B.A. Mitchell

Ali, Habib, Hassan, Ali & Ali

Yusra, Raihana, Tricia & Jocelyn

JWA Avila crew

Nadia, Talia & Victoria

Huda, Jooj & Sara

Mo, Nasser, Mo & Mustafa

Ahmed, Mahmood Al Kooheji, Hajer & Joseph

44 November 2012

Barney

Savannah & Lauren

Nadia & Ghada

Soulayma & Rony

Lamees, Reem, Jood & Yousif

Deena & Nadine

Xavier

Alex

Fatima

Sibilla

Ali, Deena & Abi

Breda & Patrick

Ayah

Noor, Wafa & Ayisha

Aljazi

Charlie

John

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

DJ Exotic Eve At Cocoon Lounge Cocoon Lounge at the Juffair Grand Hotel held a Passion 4 House event featuring international DJane and model DJ Exotic Eve last month, with a warm up set by in-house DJ Thomas

Madan & Natalia

Fionauala & Rebecca

Ellie & Sophie

DJ Exotic Eve

DJ Thomas

Mikaela, Cecille, Tasha, Cate & Giselle

Cam, Heidi & Ellis

Jessia & Alexandra

Zainab, Faheem & Isabela

Valentina & Trina

Elise & Conorad

Madan & Warren

Shami, Ali & Moody

Saud & friends

Jess & Ahmed

Erin & Vicky

Madan & Naveen

Déjà Vu Hawaiian Party The Déjà Vu Restaurant & Lounge located near the Gulf Hotel hosted a Hawaiian themed party last month

Geraldine & David

46 November 2012

Shailesh, Banu, Faheeda & Rustam

Vlada, Rustam, Kate & Valentino

Jenny, Jennifer & Rajani

Ali, Mayur & Roopesh

James & Vineeta

DJ Aaron

Raimon, Ronny, Said, Jay & Said

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Mai Tai Lounge Reopening Trader Vic's hosted an exclusive evening for a number of guests to experience the new Mai Tai Lounge that has a new and trendy ambience and an all new menu

Weena, Kamal & Veera

Rajeev & Nicolas

Ariacha, Rogier & Fatima

Imbi & Marina

Mo & Travis

Fawzi & Majid

Andy & Elena

Kashif & Saviya

Stephanie & Julia

Dana, Nadia, Sawsan, Omar, Ali, Jina & Nada

Amira & Elena

Sebastian, Laura, Pierre & Zeina

Warren & Buji

48 November 2012

Mo, Julia, Andrew, Sumaya & Travis

Marivic & Catherine

Rhoda, Marise, Rowena & Jovy

Talal, Fahad, Nawaf & Kambeez

Claudia, Olivier & Christina

Liz & Dee

Warren, Nadeem & Ali

Jermy, Rayan & Alexa

Rose, Steve & Namala

Maya & Nataly

Rogier & Hassan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

spotlightthismonth

xxxxx We don’t produce a lot; all collections are minimal — ideal for collectors and connoisseurs

Milvin George

A History of Values With a vision to remain exclusive and strong links to the sea, Panerai remains one of the most alluring and iconic timepiece brands in the high-end market.

50 November 2012

As well as looking incredibly stylish — the watch is supplied with a brown alligator strap with an adjustable red-gold buckle — it is very useful. The piece comes equipped with hours, minutes, small seconds, date, second time zone, 24-hour indicator, linear reserve indicator and a seconds reset function.

Naturally, the watch is water-resistant to 50 metres, a nod to the brand’s strong marine influence. “Panerai was born from the sea. The brand derives from founder Giovanni Panerai’s decision to supply watches to the Royal Italian Navy in the early 20th century,” recalls Milvin. “The designs had to conform to military requirements and be suitable for diving.”

In fact, it wasn’t until 1993 that the brand launched internationally and sold watches to the public. “We first opened stores in Florence — in respect of our roots — then in Hong Kong and today we have 44 boutiques worldwide, including nine in the Middle East,” Milvin outlines.

Although currently stocked only in Asia Jewellers’ various outlets in Bahrain, the brand hopes to open a stand-alone boutique in the Kingdom next year. However, for this year, the Panerai stand at Jewellery Arabia provided customers with the same shopping experience that they would receive in-store.

“I love Jewellery Arabia and the opportunities it brings,” enthuses Milvin. “It’s an ideal setting to meet with collectors; those who have as much passion for the brand as we do.”

Wherever the brand evolves from here, one thing is certain.

“We will always maintain the brand’s roots; Italian style and Swiss technology combine flawlessly to create the perfect marriage. We will never compromise quality for quantity and shall remain an elite brand dependant on a customer’s passion,” Milvin says. E Call 17 535-344.

A timepiece from Panerai is an exquisite possession. Even today, after almost 150 years in business, the brand’s name remains elusive. Thriving from exclusivity, the watches can be obtained by very few — a fact that is evident through the mere 500 pieces available worldwide of the Radiomir 8 Days GMT Oro Rosso.

“We don’t produce a lot; all collections are minimal — ideal for collectors and connoisseurs,” explains the brand’s managing director, Milvin George. “Every watch in a range is numbered; another mark of how limited each product is.”

Unveiled at last month’s Jewellery Arabia exhibition here in the Kingdom, Panerai’s latest release is as entirely desirable as one would expect.

“Just like every other product, this special edition is entirely loyal to its DNA,” states Milvin. “The classic aesthetic of the Radiomir is present; featuring a red-gold 45mm size dial, the watch includes an original and highly sophisticated version of the hand-wound mechanical P.2002 movement, clearly seen through the skeleton back.”

www.bahrainthismonth.com

spotlightthismonth

Dr. Faisal Al Mahroos

Addressing Diabetes Everyone in the Kingdom probably knows a diabetic. The illness is so widespread it seems we almost take it for granted — at our peril!

52 November 2012

Diabetes is not a new phenomenon in the Kingdom. Yet our approach to tackling this pervasive disease often appears to be as sedentary as the lifestyle we prefer to lead.

“Most people are very reluctant to exercise,” explains Dr Faisal Al Mahroos, a consultant physician at the Mahroos Diabetes Hospital. “Due to the heat, people don’t walk or jog and rarely spend time outdoors; instead, we lounge around in air-conditioned comfort watching television or playing computer games, and snacking on foods that should not be included in our diet.”

Perhaps it’s because diabetes is hereditary that the ‘inshallah’ mindset takes over and we place our trust in a greater being to, somehow, take care of us. The reality is that the less we do to combat this disease the more likely it is to lead to other ailments, such as heart attacks, obesity and, for women, infertility.

Diabetes, whether genetic or not, starts when too many fatty acids get into our blood stream and is then accentuated through an unhealthy lifestyle and a lack of exercise.

We should be embarrassed by the extent of diabetes in Bahrain; with close to 40 per cent of all Bahrainis suffering from the disease, we have one of the highest per capita incidences of diabetes in the world.

“Sadly, it is often overweight and obese people that are diabetic. Those with the mutant gene that causes diabetes are more likely to fall ill if they do not properly manage their weight,” Dr Faisal adds.

“There are three stages of diabetes. Type One is the worst kind and sufferers require regular insulin injections,” the doctor says. “However, 97 per cent of diabetics are diagnosed with Type Two, and may not even know that they have the disease.

In 60 per cent of Type Two cases there are no obvious symptoms; for the other 40 per cent, they will tire easily, be

xxxxx Sadly, it is often overweight and obese people that are diabetic. Those with the mutant gene that causes diabetes are more likely to fall ill if they do not properly manage their weight prone to infections and urinate frequently.”

Since diabetes defies a complete cure it requires a commitment to a controlled lifestyle to experience a normal life. As important as regular exercise, there has to be strict adherence to a low-sugar diet.

“We recommend that patients eat fruit when hungry and avoid juices that are pumped with sugar. Instead, beverages can be sweetened with products such as Stevia Extract, which is widely available in local stores,” Dr Faisal says.

“This particular product, for example, is a zero-calorie granulated sweetener that offers the equivalent of two teaspoons of sugar.”

The doctor and his team work with patients of all ages but children require a slightly different approach.

“With kids, we go down a more psychological path, working with them and their parents to understand how they can help control diabetes. This illness demands a significant change in behaviour and a large amount of self-restraint, which young children tend not to possess,” he says.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessthismonth When? November 20-21 | Event? Maritime transportation expo | Venue? Gulf International Convention and Exhibition Centre

Smooth Sailing Maritime industry leaders will unite this month to discuss the transportation issues that the region is facing in addition to showcasing the latest technologies and products.

The region’s largest transhipment exhibition and conference returns this month to Bahrain after an absence of three years.

The 8th Trans Middle East exhibition will promote products and services to the attendees, who will include maritime transport conference delegates from Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Around 500 international sea freight delegates are expected to participate and over 80 companies will be exhibiting. The event will include a diverse schedule of site visits, talks by experts on a range of specific topics and of course the exhibition itself.

“Visitors will have the opportunity to view the rapid strides the Kingdom has made in the maritime and logistics sectors,” explains Rory J Doyle, managing director of the organising company, Transport Events Management Limited. “These industry changes will be highlighted by visits to the state-ofthe-art Khalifa Bin Salman Port and the Bahrain Logistics Zone.”

Additionally, delegates will visit the Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company during their stay; two facilities that are committed to transforming Bahrain into a major transhipment hub.

Key industry leaders will be introduced at the opening ceremony. A welcome address will be given by the director Also this month

general of Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation Ports and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Al Majed and chairperson James Bremen.

The event’s interactive conference is set to be a highlight.

Featuring 30 world-class senior executive-level speakers, the talk will expose the latest issues affecting the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions.

One session speaker is Mohan Ipe, general manager of APL Bahrain, who will discuss the shipowner’s perspective on innovations and developments within the shipping industry.

Also in attendance will be Andreas Falk, sales director of port cranes and lift-trucks from Germany’s Konecranes, who will discuss smarter container handling.

Other topics on the schedule include the latest developments in cargo shipping: direct connections to main and feeder air and sea ports worldwide and the application of rail and road as part of the inter-modal logistics chain.

“This is the biggest annual industry affair in the region and has now become huge a maritime transport fixture,” says Rory.

“Trans Middle East continues to grow exponentially year by year and we are looking forward to an event that will be 20 per cent larger than the last one held in Bahrain. The country is well on its way to becoming an ideal gateway for overseas businesses to efficiently and cost-effectively access the billion dollar regional markets, especially in the northern gulf region,” he concludes. E Email enquiries@transportevents.com.

56 x Entrepreneur - 58 x Interview - 60 x Spotlight

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? November 7 Event? Forum Venue? BIECC ‘Invest in Bahrain 2012’ will present investment opportunities.

E Call 17 568-028.

When? November 8-10 Event? Startup Weekend Venue? Batelco Staff Centre Assistance to entrepreneurs hoping to start new ventures.

E Call 32 226-333.

When? November 12-14 Event? Exhibition Venue? BIECC A range of business products and services will be showcased.

E Visit www.stareventsme.com.

When? November 17-18 Event? Forum Venue? Gulf Hotel The insurance industry is under the spotlight with a new forum.

E Visit www.middleeasttakaful. megaevents.net.

When? November 20-21 Event? Maritime transportation expo Venue? Gulf Hotel Event will shed light on the issues facing the marine industry.

E Email enquiries@ transportevents.com.

November 2012 55

businessentrepreneur

xxxxx Opening a new computer and IT business is the easiest thing in the world. Keeping a 30-year reputation intact is another matter

Hassan Kaiksow

Forging New Ground Simi Kamboj Hassan Kaiksow has brought new direction and fresh energy to one of Bahrain’s oldest IT companies.

56 November 2012

Born in the same year as the launch of Mantech Computers, Hassan Kaiksow had keenly followed developments at the family business until he was ready to take charge in 2003.

Shaping the direction of a 30-year-old computer company has been challenging in a marketplace where IT companies are mushrooming every week.

“Opening a new computer and IT business is the easiest thing in the world. Keeping a 30-year reputation intact is another matter,” he says.

Over the years, Mantech had closed down its Microsoftcertified training centre, one of the first IT training institutes in Bahrain. It is now trying to revive it with new training concepts and modules.

For his part, Hassan has set his sights on designing niche services and solutions aimed at expanding his market segments. Mantech’s IT security division that he launched in 2003 is thriving, while the vehicle tracking system introduced

in his early days with the company is now being rolled out across the region.

“We aim to develop the market for high-end tracking systems in the wider Gulf market through our partnership with Belgian manufacturer, Zircos. This device, in the form of a GPS chip, allows customers to follow mobile objects, including vehicles, diggers, vessels and personnel, in real time on the Zircos website. The system is used in Europe for purposes far beyond tracking property, including monitoring working hours, unnecessary trips, fuel theft and abuse of vehicles, as well as driver identification and maintenance of equipment,” he says.

Earlier this year, the young entrepreneur signed up with Thinspace, a UK-based specialist provider of cloud client technology, to accelerate the deployment of such computing technology in Bahrain.

He is now scouting for channel sales personnel as well as distributors in order to start operations by early 2013. Hassan would like to venture out to other GCC markets and is on the lookout for local partners who are “mature enough”.

Noting that business volumes have improved during the present year, Hassan is optimistic that Bahrain will be back on track over the coming one.

“Every nation has its share of problems. Our democracy is in the process of maturing and we believe Bahrain will come out stronger from this experience,” he says.

Beginning December this year, Mantech will introduce electrical stand-up vehicles manufactured by US-based T3 Motion in Bahrain. The stand-up three-wheeler has been popular with law enforcement and security agencies worldwide as well as in airports and retail space. The bikes will also be available for recreational use in Bahrain.

Branding service Operating in a highly competitive environment, Hassan has to constantly juggle his priorities, sometimes focusing more on operations, at other times on launching valueadded services.

He believes that a major impediment in the development of standalone service packages in the region is the popular mindset that takes service for granted.

“The GCC as a whole is not a service-oriented region.

Unlike in the Western markets, people here are accustomed to getting service free and fail to appreciate the value,” he says.

Going forward, Hassan hopes to set this right by branding his services and selling them in packages.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessinterview

xxxxx Bahrain offers an experience very different from other destinations in the GCC, but it hasn’t been able to deliver its message out there. It needs to do more in getting that message across “We’re in a position to look ahead and assume that things will continue to look better. We can definitely predict an improved performance for the next year,” he says.

Ian is also keen to make capital expenditure decisions in the right areas, but these would depend on the market situation next year. “2013 is also the time for the launch of Amwaj Waves, the group’s seafront apartment hotel complex that caters to a mix of long- and short-stay clientele,” he says.

The seasoned hospitality veteran has weathered greater political turbulence during his years with an international hotel chain in Jakarta, post the fall of the Suharto regime. He is well versed with the damage that international perception, even when askew from reality, inflicts on a nation’s economy.

“Bahrain offers an experience very different from other destinations in the GCC, but it hasn’t been able to deliver its message out there. It needs to do more in getting that message across,” he notes.

Growth concepts Ian McKie

Enhancing an Icon Simi Kamboj A fragile business environment means that hospitality players will have to reassess strategies and expectations as they learn to live with uncertain consumer confidence.

58 November 2012

As the Kingdom’s original five-star hotel, the Gulf Hotel is perhaps Bahrain’s best-known home-grown success story.

The new man at the helm, Ian McKie, takes a pause as he evaluates an uncertain climate that has crippled long-term decision making and is stalling investment in the process. As area general manager at the Gulf Hotel Group (GHG), the parent company behind Gulf Hotel and The K Hotel, Ian’s brief involves aligning standards with internationally tested systems, structures and strategies without compromising on the hotel’s individuality.

As things stand, Ian is disinclined to predict a return of consumer confidence to earlier highs, but he’s optimistic about the coming year.

As an established player with the brand name and ability to profitably manage a portfolio of hospitality-related businesses, GHG is keen to expand its network with reduced exposure to investment and political risk.

“Going forward, we’re exploring whether we can manage some existing hotels under our brand, both in Bahrain as well as in the region. However, these properties will have to be a certain standard to fly under the Gulf Hotel flag,” notes Ian. While the market for room occupancy may seem tight in the short run, sufficient scope for growth exists within the food and beverage segment, which remains the hotel’s mainstay. The Hotel has recently opened Cafe Delice, a cafe and pastry shop on the ground floor of the Gulf Executive Residence, which has received good reviews.

Ian also notes that this may also be the right time to expand the company’s four-star portfolio. After all, a fivestar hotel, with its higher standards and greater operating costs, stipulates higher occupancy rates.

“The four-star segment is a good market if we can get the location right. This may be a good time to initiate a four-star conversation,” he says.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Fantastic 5 from BD 13,995 5 choices, 5 engines, 5 star service, 5 year warranty and 5 models.

What better deal to accommodate your needs. Exclusive offers on the 5 C-Class variants: C-180, C-200, C-300, C-350 and the C 63 AMG. So why wait, visit Al Haddad Motors today and get the 5 star treatment.

businessspotlight

Robert Grey

BAHRAIN NATIONAL LIFE

In Safe Hands

We spoke to Robert Grey, general manager at Bahrain National Life.

Bahrain National Life (bnl) is a subsidiary of Bahrain National Holding (bnh) and the only local company specialising exclusively in providing a range of life and healthcare products for both businesses and individuals. Holding the reins to the organisation is Robert Grey, who tells us what’s new at the firm.

BTM: What is the newest product on offer at bnl?

RG: We have savings packages going back 10-15 years. In the last year, we have linked up with Fidelity, one of the largest fund managers in the world tolaunch included UnitLinked Insurance Plans. When you take out a plan, part of the money goes directly into the Fidelity Units and part provides for life insurance and disability benefits.

We started with 14 funds, spread in different asset classes around the world. It really is an effective way of regularly saving money.

BTM: How does a client benefit from being a part of Fidelity?

RG: Our aim is to have the best of local know-how and the best of what is available internationally. By linking with Fidelity, we offer international fund management expertise and local administration. So, you could have international exposure and a local contact.

BTM: What are the different plans available?

RG: We started off with three products. The Wealth Management Plan is designed in a way that most of the

60 November 2012

money goes into the Unit while a lower element goes to life insurance. The Wealth Protection Plan is different in the fact that a higher proportion goes into life insurance; the lower part is invested. The third plan is the Baby Bond. This is a mixture of both. It is perfect for those of us who want to make sure that we make sure of reaching a certain figure, but at the same time want to be insured. If anything happens to the parents, the child is still provided for.

BTM: Why do you think people should invest with bnl?

RG: Apart from being one of the best insurers, bnl is part of a group with a history going back over 40 years. Bnl itself was established in 2000 as a dedicated life and healthcare company.

What we work on is providing a range of plans for corporates and individuals with a focus on customer service.

We feel you shouldn’t have to wait for a response to any phone call or email.

One more factor we consider important is educating our staff.

I insist on all our employees acquiring insurance qualifications.

Everyone, from receptionists to managers, has to go through courses and attend training sessions. All of them need to know about our products.

It’s an ongoing programme. As a result, if someone answers the phone, they actually know what they’re talking about. They don’t have to keep asking somebody else, which is annoying if you’re a client. What it does is it saves time.

E Call 17 587-333.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessspotlight TAMKEEN

Study Your Way to Success xxxxx I have emerged from this diploma course with skills related to taking strategic decisions enrol on for a while and heard about this one through friends.

Finally, after searching the Internet for additional information I signed up.”

The scheme is designed in a very flexible way, specifically to suit private sector employees. In particular, those who enrol on this course can expect to focus on the art of communication and classroom discussion; methods that are used to allow the participants to benefit from the experiences of each other.

“I have emerged from this diploma course with skills related to taking strategic decisions, improving communication strategies and giving more effective presentations,” Eyad comments.

From the experience and knowledge garnered, he is quick to recommend the course to anyone who wishes to boost their leadership skills.

“It is an excellent programme that helps the participants enrich their practical experience and advance their careers,” he says. “As I am going through a transitional stage, it helped me realise my ambition of moving up the career ladder to higher and leading positions. I advise all Bahraini youths to benefit from Tamkeen. This is an opportunity that must not be missed and I hope everyone will grab it just as I did.”

Strategic management and leadership programme

Eyad Naqi

Life is too short to wait for others to teach you the ways of the business world. Enrol in a course that will provide you with the expertise and ability you need to thrive.

62 November 2012

If you are looking to fast-track your career, Tamkeen has an exciting new offering. The Professional Certifications Scheme (programme code e7trf) gives you the financial support you need to advance in your profession.

To date, the scheme has benefitted over 2,000 Bahrainis including the senior manager of technological solutions at 2Connect telecommunications company.

“I was one of the beneficiaries who obtained a Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, a Tamkeen programme conducted by the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance,” says Eyad Maqi. “I had been looking for a course like this to

Since inception in 2006, more than 53,000 citizens and enterprises have benefitted from Tamkeen’s various programmes, which number more than 180 and target over 100,000 beneficiaries.

The communication-powered course supports upcoming entrepreneurs in attaining professional qualifications that are usually costly and often cannot be financially borne by individuals alone.

Applicants can choose from a list of certifications accredited by the most reputable awarding bodies in the world. Funding will be made in two stages; in the first stage the candidate will pay 50 per cent of the fees while Tamkeen pays the rest. In the second stage Tamkeen will refund the amount paid by the candidate on the condition he or she successfully achieves certification.

E Visit www.tamkeen.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Made for your body Made for your body

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE Engineered in Switzerland.

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

bystanderthismonth

BSPCA Fashion Show The Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) hosted it's popular Fashion Show at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa's Al Fanar rooftop restaurant. The theme for the event held last month was the BSPCA Academy Awards

Lynne, Shandra & Joyce

Aurelie, Tony, Tracey & Elisabeth

Tara, Olivia, Hannah & Olivia

Miriam, Sara, Ellie, Deb, Viv & Pippa

Kirsten, Lindsey, Silhe, Gina & Ian

Anna, Robert, Gabeth & Gill

64 November 2012

Julie, Tara & Caroline

Sharon & Melana

Tim, Deborah & Val

Richard & Elaine

Karin & Dr Reinhold

Guy, Sue, Fleesok & Pim

Steve & Sian

Peter & Julia

Isabella

Robyn & Greg

Ian & Diane

Malcolm & Elspeth

Syed

Jarvis & Lyndsey

Sheryl & David

Susan, Alan & Heather

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

ECC Charity Dinner Dance The Ecumenical Conference of Charity (ECC) held its annual fund-raising dinner dance for members and guests at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa. Proceeds from the Arabic themed event held last month will directly benefit the needy in Bahrain

Tricia & Rev Chris

Nancy, Aanya, Aishwarya & Chiquitita

Bernard & Marietta

Vijay & Joel

Santosh & Mr Alwazzan

Esky & Emma

Teresa

Florine

ECC volunteers

Geg, George, Svetlana & Anne

Sofia & Arun

Nilda, Nancy, Auryl, Poonam, Anisha, Francisca & Sandra

Dr Cheriyan, Shoba & Dr Kalyan

Sharma & Elton

Fatima, Sophie, Nancy, Raina & Sulo

Roopa, Ruchika, Carole & Reshma

66 November 2012

Auryl & Poonam

Jehane, Denise & Adel

Edward, Anthony & Harry

Vani, Nalini & Meera

Liliane & Lynne

Hussain & Noor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Fabbagirls Live!

A number of people attended a poolside music concert by British Abba tribute band, the Fabbagirls. The event was organised by the Arabian Celts, and was held at the Diplomat Radisson Blu, Residence & Spa. Billed as the world's number one Abba tribute band, the Fabbagirls are fronted by Susie Webb and Zoe Nicholas

Benny, Agnita, James, Freida & Bjorn

The Fabbagirls

Said, Amanda, Agnita & Sinead

George, Charmain, Anne, Doris & Michael

Estelle, Julie & Kristie

Max, Pieter, Anaesha & Asha

Nadia, Buthaina & Tanya

Doris & Panos

Kezia & Channah

Kirsten, Lindsey, Helen, Sandra, Joan & Kathy

Fi, John & Ash

Tina & Maria

Ash & Spada

Olive, Orla, Arlene, Shauna & Aisling

Annie, Paddy & Maria

Walter & Dee

Kate & Sarah

Romain, Paul, Kaye, Cris, Geoff, Aziz & Andrew

68 November 2012

Rose, Chantelle, Trixie & Bjorn

Martin & Evelyn

www.bahrainthismonth.com

www.severin.com

FOR BIG STARS AND LITTLE STARLETS. With SEVERIN HairCare, even the smallest starlets can feel like big stars. With the SEVERIN Beauty line, you effortlessly discover your own versatility. Individual creations are achieved quickly and then change again in favour of a new stylish trend. With SEVERIN HairCare, the bathroom becomes the stage.

www.yyfakhro.com

bystanderthismonth

Lorraine Maria Smith & Hugo Otto Chambon-Rรถthlisberger Wedding Lorraine Maria Smith, daughter of Ronald L. and Argiri (Iro) P. Smith & Hugo Otto Chambon-Rรถthlisberger celebrated their wedding in the picturesque seafront towns of Porto Heli and Agios Emilianos in the Peloponnese region of Greece. The Chambon-Rรถthlisberger family, parents Martine and John Noel, relatives and friends mainly from Lyon, France and Switzerland attended the wedding & celebrations spread over 4 days

Lorraine Smith

Hugo & Lorraine

Andrew, Christine, Lorraine, Hugo, Stephanie & John

Iro, Joe Noel, Lorraine, Hugo, Martine & Ron

Andrew, Iro, Christine, Lorraine, Ron, Stephanie & John

Andrew & priest Athanasios

Lorraine signing the wedding contract

Christine & priest Athanasios

Christine, Lorraine & Stephanie

The happy couple

Friends raise a toast

Lorraine, Thanasis, Christine & Hugo

Greek dancing led by Iro

70 November 2012

Ron, Iro & Rena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

discoverbahrain

Reef Arabia: A Whole New World If you have been diving in Bahrain, you will know that there’s increasingly less to see under the surface.

Years of reclaiming land has destroyed the marine life; something which one company is slowly restoring.

For many years, the people of Bahrain survived from the treasures caught from the Arabian Gulf. Livelihoods were dependent on the vibrant marine life and professions such as pearl diving spurred the economy of this small country.

However, all is not well with what has sustained generations of the island’s inhabitants. Years of marine construction, overfishing and rising sea temperatures have taken their toll, with many of Bahrain’s coral reefs transformed into bone yards.

Local fishermen are feeling the pinch and although the government is addressing this from many angles, one initiative deserves recognition. A project is under way that involves the construction and deployment of a network of artificial reef complexes in an attempt to begin offsetting past damage.

Wide-ranging benefits The foundation of each artificial reef complex includes the US-patented Reef Ball, made under the license of Reef Ball Australia, one of the most successful artificial reef designs in the world.

Significantly, the Reef Arabia team recognised the need to make these reefs unique and designed and built three bespoke units, the Wind Tower (Bâdgir), Castle and Majfara (Sea Cave).

These designs draw upon traditional cultural icons and natural seabed features.

The idea was to produce units which provide a new threedimensional (3D) seabed habitat and ultimately develop into fully functional ecosystems. However, the reefs also needed to

Bahrain’s new reefs Cue Reef Arabia, sister company of Environment Arabia (formerly PHE Gulf) and probably the region’s largest artificial reef designer and manufacturer. This company was tasked with the job of constructing and deploying over 2,700 purpose-built concrete reef units.

Based in Riffa, it comprises experienced local and international marine biologists; all with an intense passion for marine life. When given the ‘opportunity of a lifetime’, the Reef Arabia team wasted no time in building and deploying numerous reef complexes, incorporating more than a twist of local culture in the design.

72 November 2012

www.bahrainthismonth.com

be aesthetically appealing and to serve as dive sites for the increasing number of recreational divers in the country.

This creates exciting opportunities to develop underwater ‘theme parks’, which constitute a regional first when built within the protected sanctuary of private coastal developments.

The use of artificial reefs for fishery and recreational purposes is not a new concept but their reintroduction to Bahrain, in a manner which is carefully controlled, is now being embraced by both the private sector and individuals alike.

Steadfast progression In a programme established by Reef Arabia that aims at increasing public environmental awareness and promoting public participation, a reef of 28 Reef Ball units was deployed with generous sponsorship made by DHL and a number of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia residents.

Almost three months later, the reef is now home to a large number of fish and invertebrates. Sponsors are able to see the progression through photographs and video clips which they are regularly sent.

The initiative has attracted interest from children, who under the supervision of trained staff, are encouraged to take part in making their own Reef Balls. They have the opportunity to learn first-hand from the company’s marine biologists the importance of protecting the marine environment.

Working for the future In what is likely to be a world first, an intricate reef unit will soon be deployed in Bahrain’s water. Designed by the company’s Australian partner Sustainable Oceans International and constructed using state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, this unit will herald a new era for artificial reef design.

The technology allows for designs to be formed using a nontoxic and patented material.

The team will be closely monitoring the durability and effectiveness of the new material, which once confirmed as a viable option for use as the mainstay of future reefs, will open the door to creating reef units and designs previously unimaginable. You are welcome to contact the team if you would either like to sponsor an artificial reef or simply learn more about their projects.

E Visit www.reefarabia.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 73

downtimethismonth

Felix Baumgartner

Taking the Fall elma bartholomew For some of us, all it takes is to be standing five feet above ground to have our knees knocking with fear. For others, standing at the edge of space just doesn’t make the cut.

People have often told me that I should be the brand ambassador for acrophobia, the fear of heights. I kid you not; I kneel down on balconies to have a “safe” view of the skyline. It doesn’t help that this phobia kicks off from the first floor of a building. If you’re on the hunt for a funny video to upload on YouTube, you should fly with me, especially when I’m seated by the window.

While the thought of falling off the bed was giving me the jitters, I found myself watching a man freefall from the edge of space. As surreal as it sounds, this actually happened. On October 14, tens of millions watched Felix Baumgartner make a death-defying leap that broke records for the highest and fastest skydive ever. At 1,342 kilometres per hour, he had dropped from a height of 39 kilometres.

It makes me giddy just saying this, but the 43-year-old couldn’t seem more unruffled about the jump. Sponsored by the Red Bull Stratos team, this Austrian has become the poster boy for nerves of steel. I always joke that I don’t need a fall to kill me; the panic attack on the way should do it. Yet, for someone who has seen for a fact that the world isn’t flat after all, the daredevil did not as much as give out the tiniest “woohoo” midair. Had it been anyone else, we’d have a nine-minute clip of non-stop screaming, be it in joy or fear. I’d say this is the Also this month

most calm and collected a person can be in the history of humankind. Baumgartner begs to differ.

“I was not calm,” he said to Metro magazine, “because when you travel at supersonic speed, how can you be calm? But I never thought ‘I lost it’. You are not calm, you are on fire but I am used to being on fire and keeping my head cool. My highest heart rate was leaving the capsule.”

To go out with a bang is no easy task, but once you’ve broken the speed of sound in a freefall from space, there just is no better scene at which the curtain can drop. The former military parachutist rose in a purpose-built capsule beneath a giant helium balloon to a height of more than 128,000 feet, almost four times the height of a cruising passenger airliner. Thus, apart from the two unbelievable accomplishments, he also smashed the record for the highest manned balloon flight.

It is safe to assume that the salute to the millions watching around the world before he jumped from the capsule and plummeted towards the earth was his last as a daredevil. His remarkable feat came exactly 65 years to the day after Chuck Yeager became the first man to break the sound barrier in an aeroplane. If I were to hit school again, I’d thank him for making it easier to remember those dates.

I read somewhere that Baumgartner had drawn a picture of himself at the age of five of him parachuting towards earth while his family watched. It turns out this isn’t the first time children have drawn their prediction of future achievements.

I’m digging through the storeroom for signs of success.

Original voice

Product designer Joey Roth has created a ceramic subwoofer to complement his ceramic speakers, which are very unique in their minimalist design, and have been constructed using porcelain, stainless steel and Baltic birch.

Carved in stone

After being first announced back in May alongside the Samsung Galaxy S III, the tech giant has finally started shipping their new S Pebble Music Player that can accept music directly from a smartphone, without the need to attach it to a computer.

76 Gadgets x 78 Music x 80 Computer games x 81 Websites x 82 Apps x 83 Movies

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 75

downtimegadgets

The Big Picture There are a lot of things we can live without, but our gadgets of the month aren’t on that list. We turn you into the perfect chef, barista, photographer and more.

Editor's pick!

Back to the future

Eva Longoria and Daniel Craig have been spotted with this interpretation of the classic telephone. The Pop Phone combines a retrostyle handset with a luxurious soft-touch texture and is built with a high-quality speaker and microphone for crisp sound.

Smell the coffee

The Dream model is one of the most emblematic coffee machines of the Ascaso factory. This machine combines an antique look with the latest state-of-the-art technology. It also provides professional quality extraction and is very simple to use.

Safe and sound

It’s a snap

Lomography encourages you to go back to analogue photography with the Sprocket Rocket SuperPop camera. It comes with a super wideangle lens allowing you to get amazing pictures as opposed to boring, repetitive digital clicks.

76 November 2012

The Tykho Radio from Lexon is a great example that form and functionality can work harmoniously together. It is entirely encased in a silicone cover. It is splash-proof, allowing you to use it in the shower, by the pool, in the kitchen or even at the beach.

All the same

The Drone is an open-source Bluetooth game controller for smartphones, tablets and computers.

You can now play all your favourite games with a real controller. Boasting an internal rechargeable battery, it is as simple as power on, sync and play.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Blink back tears

They might not be the most fashionable kitchen accessory out there, but the Onion Goggles are here to help you fight back those tears. Forget those old wives’ tales that never worked. The comfortable foam seal keeps those evil vapours at bay.

Pet peeves

When you’ve got friends coming over and there’s fur everywhere in sight, it’s time to realise that Dyson’s DC34 Animal Exclusive is your new best friend. With twice the suction power of any other handheld vacuum cleaner, it guarantees an instantly spotless home.

Along for the ride

The Navigator from Montague’s pavement series is a 27-speed folding bike that is built for the daily commute. Along with 700c tyres and the octagon height-adjustable stem, this bike comes with fenders and a rear rack. It folds in under 20 seconds without the use of tools.

Take the heat

There is nothing complicated about a grill which is easy to bring along. The Bodum Mini Fyrkat Grill is handy and light.

If hauling massive equipment to the park isn’t your idea of a day out, this should bring back your love for barbecues.

Clean-up act

Perfect for brightening up your kitchen or dining table, while protecting the surface at the same time, Joseph Joseph’s worktop savers are made from toughened glass and have non-slip rubber feet. These provide a hygienic, odour- and stain-resistant work surface.

All gadgets are available online.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 77

downtimemusic

Hitting Rock Bottom OF A TH LB E U M M ON TH

The best of the rock genre are back on the shelves. From Paul Stanley to Jakob Dylan, we see all kinds this month.

Kiss

Monster RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? Who thought we’d live to see another studio album from Kiss? And yet, after 11 long years, they justified their significance in the world of rock and roll with Sonic Boom in 2009. You’d think it would take another decade to watch them blow our minds away with their 20th album, if not at all. Three years later, they come up with Monster. After the first listen we couldn’t think of a more appropriate title. This is your chance to remind yourself how infectious their guitar riffs can be.

WORTH A LISTEN?

Have they forgotten to grow up? Tracks like Freak and Back to the Stone Age, leave no room for optimism. Take Me Down Below is the saving grace, boasting the band’s trademark rumbling bass. Subtlety was never their forte; don’t expect it throughout the album.

Listeners do suggest that this could be their best work to date. We beg to differ, although any track could stand up to previous hits. If it can be taken as a compliment, the riffs can actually be danced to and the songs are perfect for arena fillers. You can’t really say you’ve listened to Kiss unless you’ve caught them live.

VERDICT: They are up to their usual tricks; it’s filthy and contagious.

TOP TRACKS: Hell or Hallelujah, Eat Your Heart Out and The Devil is Me. The Wallflowers

Glad All Over

When their version of I Started a Joke played repeatedly on my iPod day in and day out, I swore that I’d love everything The Wallflowers would come up with. I am sorry to say so, but this album made me break that promise. Don’t get me wrong. Glad All Over has its moments of greatness.

However, it reeks of predictability and seems clichéd to an extent. A seven year wait calls for a lot more than gritty sounds and catchy rhythms.

78 November 2012

Muse

The 2nd Law You either love them or you hate them. There is no grey area for this rock band.

Obviously fans are going to go crazy over The 2nd Law; but haters, not so much.

After all, dubstep has made a comeback. We say, just go with it.

Leona Lewis

Glassheart There is no doubt that Leona Lewis is a talented girl; she wouldn’t win the X Factor title had she been a bad singer. Nonetheless, if you ask us if this album is worth the buy, we’ll have to shake our heads. I doubt it’ll budge an inch from the stands.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

downtimecomputergames

Get Your Game On Are you tired of games telling us what to do? Dishonored is the perfect break you need from monotonous plots and forced gameplay.

TH GA E M M E ON TH

FABLE: The Journey (Xbox 360)

OF

Is it fun? Yes (provided the Kinect works properly). There are times when you will need to juggle your skills. Fight sequences, though not particularly difficult, are the highlight of the game. There’s nothing more to the story than a quest with a few obstacles and spells.

Dishonored (Xbox 360, PS3, PC) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

You are the once-trusted bodyguard of the empress. Framed for her murder and driven by revenge, you must become an infamous assassin, known only by the disturbing mask that has become your calling card. As you navigate a world torn apart by plague and oppressed by a government armed with strange new technologies, the truth behind your betrayal is as murky as the waters surrounding the city. The choices you make will determine the fate of the world but, no matter what, your old life is gone forever.

XCom: EU (Xbox 360, PS3, PC) If you need to get ahead in this game, you’ll have to possess great skills at developing strategies. It is doubtful if all tactics can be implemented. XCom is engaging, full of tension and rewarding challenges.

GRAPHICS:

Even though they aren’t deal breakers, the controls have some small issues. Climbing ledges and grabbing enemies from behind may not go as smoothly as you wished. You can also expect a few invisible walls and hovering objects. That being said, the art direction is unbelievable and the overall aesthetic is remarkable. The character modelling and lighting are noteworthy. Soft textures and a clever use of colour and contrast act as replacements for detail.

GAMEPLAY:

Putting choice back in the hands of the player is perhaps the best thing that Dishonored offers. You will come across multiple options for achieving a single goal. As a result, everyone’s gameplay varies vastly. Although you’ve the advantage over your enemies and the odds are highly in your favour, the outcome depends on your way of thinking as compared to the usual one-track mission. The nine operations are very distinct.

VERDICT: A compelling game like this does not come around very often.

80 November 2012

The Walking Dead (PS3) Around Every Corner wins in the ‘plot’ department. What more does a pre-finale need to do than make you wait for the next episode? This feeling is temporary. Each segment starts with simple tasks that get complicated towards its end. While individual episodes are fine, the overall story isn’t.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

TENTH O EBSIM W THE

OF

Curbly.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Remember Home Improvement? Well, we’ve stumbled upon the next best thing. Curbly is a do-it-yourself design community for people who love where they live. They believe that everyone should have a beautiful home. With the right tools and know-how, you can create a place that fits your personality.

THE GOOD: Unlike most blogs where a bottle of paint and a spare

sock are considered tricks to create a whole new living space, Curbly offers ideas to revamping your home, from scratch if you will. This website is recommended for those trying to give any room a facelift and for those building a new home. Small spaces aren’t problems any longer. We even saw how someone turned their garage into a house!

THE BAD:

For a portal full of design tips, Curbly could use some help fixing up their layout. It isn’t the most user-friendly site you would come across. The dull appearance is worsened by a clutter of posts. The lack of focus and having to scroll for what seems like eternity are a shame to what is potentially an excellent forum. However, if it’s ideas you are looking for, you’ll find plenty here.

VERDICT: Curbly helps you bring out the best in your home.

Freerice.com Freerice is a non-profit website that is owned by and supports the United Nations World Food Programme. The website has two goals: to provide education to everyone and to help end world hunger by providing rice to hungry people — both for free.

Howdoesshe.com Stop wondering how that woman got those amazing curls in less than 30 minutes and do it yourself. From tips on fashion and beauty to how to run a household, the contributors have interesting posts in here that are very helpful. Yes, they’ve recipes too.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 81

downtimeapps

In the Air Find out what we love about the handy app that we ‘bump’ed into this month. Two airborne games caught our attention, too.

E TH

TH PS ON AP M

OF

Spirits (Android, iOS) Autumn is coming. Leaves fall, and spirits rise from the fallen leaves to begin their journey home. You must guide them, without direct control, by changing how the wind blows or by rebuilding the ground. Each spirit can be sacrificed to perform one of four actions: build a bridge of leaves, create a blowing cloud, dig tunnels, or block wind currents in an area. Use your actions wisely or you will run out of spirits. In each level it’s up to you to find your own creative solution on how to get the spirits to the goal.

I’m Expecting: Pregnancy (iOS) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

This is a comprehensive pregnancy app from one of the world’s largest online health communities, MedHelp. An expecting mother can keep track of everything that’s happening to her and her baby. It gives you weekly updates of foetal growth. The app also tracks symptoms and compares them to those of other moms-to-be to see how common they are. It even lets you share information with your doctor, add doctor appointments and get answers to your questions.

THE GOOD: It is very thorough. You can even backup your information if you get yourself an account with MedHelp itself. It monitors weight throughout the pregnancy. Take advantage of the various forum topics to understand the different phases that a mother will go through. Clear your own doubts here. This app acts like a support group through such a sensitive process.

THE BAD:

Although promised, the widget is still not available. Secondly, the settings aren’t permanent. For instance, you have to keep reminding it that you prefer kgs and cms to lbs and inches. It would help if the app was available in a few other languages as well. Another helpful feature would be if it could separate the trimesters, by colour at the least.

VERDICT: It is useful and informative, but you still need to see your doctor.

82 November 2012

Jetpack Joyride (Android, iOS) From the makers of Fruit Ninja, Jetpack Joyride will have you riding in jetpacks, collecting coins, going for a spin in a huge variety of vehicles and even levelling up by completing in-game missions. On top of that, you can view your progress in The Stash, purchase new upgrades and items and compare scores online with your friends. If you thought slicing fruits was addictive, wait until you get a hang of this game. The gameplay is tuned to perfection. Although semi-random, it is skill-based.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TH

OF

TH E

ON

M OV M IE

movies

Taken 2 RATING: DIRECTED BY: Olivier Megaton STARRING: Liam Neeson, Famke Janssen, Maggie Grace

THE PLOT:

In Istanbul, retired CIA operative Bryan Mills and his ex-wife are taken hostage by the father of a kidnapper who Mills killed while rescuing his daughter, Kim. In the sequel, the tables have turned. Kim helps track her parents down, but it’s too late. They’ve got her mother. Last time, he rescued his daughter in less than four days not knowing where she was and who had abducted her. Bryan knows exactly who he is dealing with.

WORTH WATCHING? I won’t be caught dead saying

anything bad about a Liam Neeson film, unless we’re talking about Grey. This series isn’t something you watch hoping it will make it to the Oscars. Taken 2 combines few intellectual plot segments and more action sequences. Having replicated the same formula as its predecessor, the movie is just not that good. At times, you’ll want to believe you’re watching a Chuck Norris film.

VERDICT: Logic isn’t its strong suit.

Frankenweenie Tim Burton’s movies are an acquired taste, especially with his recent works plummeting. Frankenweenie is a good film. It might not appeal to everyone, and perhaps isn’t suitable for the younger crowd either. Yet, it is a wonderful tribute to the classic horror genre. The characters are memorable and entertaining.

Paranormal Activity 4 The “boo” moments feel worn-out this time. All familiar elements in terms of plot are thrown into a stew that doesn’t add up to anything. This might be the pitfall that the series had been avoiding for all these years. It’s a horror movie with no real scares.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 83

bystanderthismonth

World Record Attempt At Bahrain Science Centre The Bahrain Science Centre in collaboration with The Society of Biology was part of a record attempt for the world's largest memory game to celebrate Biology Week. The attempt involved both adults and children of all ages at the Bahrain Science Centre in Isa Town

Mariam, Aysha & Abdulla

Kashyap & Chakri

Paurvi & Dilip

Shaurya Purvi & Jeeva

Deepak & Suchedh

Sandip & Puja

Fajer & Dana

Kushal

The participants at the event

84 November 2012

Esra

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bedrock 2nd Anniversary Party Bedrock at the Ramee California Hotel hosted a party to celebrate the outlet's second anniversary last month

Sandeep

Sateesh, Hamdi, Antony, Angeli, Sandeep & Prasann

Aisha & Lana

Dennis, Yenne & U

Liwi & Queenie

Yousif, Jean & Antony

DJ Nader

Vinay, Ritesh, Roshan, Aman & Sukuh

Shane, Leandra, Pinky, Bryan & Alex

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Priyesh, Sandeep & Nasser

Satheesh & Angeli

November 2012 85

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain City Centre Walkathon For Think Pink More than 300 members of the community came out to Bahrain City Centre to participate in the second annual ‘Kick Up Your Heels’ walkathon, raising BD 4,200 in support of breast cancer. Coinciding with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, all funds go towards Think Pink Bahrain Breast Cancer Charity, a local non-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness and funds in support of early detection of breast cancer

Beulah, Usha, Sheeja, Alphonsa, Ansy & Lynette

Dipti, Ann, Deniz & Ahmed

Bahrain City Centre team

Kameela, Noor, Samiya & Marwa

Lubna

Munira, Nirmala & Sunita

Sameera & Noor

Samar & Natalie

Al Namal Group Get Together The Al Namal Group hosted a get together for staff members and a number of guests at the Diva Hotel in Juffair

Mr & Mrs Mohammed Mansoor

Hanif, Abubaker & Ashraf

Shankar, Mohammed & Amitabh

86 November 2012

Bader, Rana, Mohammed & Arun

Caesar, Javed & Aziz

Jaya, Nagesh & Ashok

Imthiaz & Jabber

Mrs Imthiaz, Mrs Aziz & Mrs Mansoor

Rajesh & Abdulla

Anoop

Ronald

Rajesh

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Pashawat Restaurant Launch The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa hosted a dinner reception to mark the launch of the hotel's Pashawat Arabic Restaurant

Bert Plas, Jassim Al Zayani & Charbel Hamma

Fulya & Bert

Wissam, Basel, Ahmed, Stan & Kathryn

Isa, Abdulrahman & Ahmed

Julia, Marvan & Niveen

Sawsan, Fatima & Sarah

Sana & Rakia

Nicolas, Elie, Nissrine, Sola & Patrick

Jassim Al Zayani & Abdul Hussain Dawani

Layal & Rami

Edward & Wena

Shani & Marina

Mohammed

Osama

Mohammed

Nina

Shaikha Marwa Art Exhibition Award winning artist Shaikha Marwa Rashid Al Khalifa exhibited a collection of new paintings at World Beat Cafe themed - Aspects of a Women.

Shaikha Marwa also dedicated a portion of the sale’s profits to the Think Pink Bahrain charity

Joanne & Shaikh Hassan

88 November 2012

Shaikha Yara & Shaikha Marwa

Daniel & Nicole

Shaima & Shaikh Salman

One of the artworks on display

Abdulrahim Sharif, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa & Hisham

Jarna, Shaikha Marwa, Nadia, Irina & Eman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Meher's Birthday Party Meher & George hosted a party for a number of their friends to celebrate the Meher's birthday.

The party was held at Mei N Yu Restaurant at Amwaj Islands

Nadeem, Meher & George

Anirudh, Dr Kalyan & Dr Joe

Vanessa, Michelle, Sahileja, Lisa, Meher, Sabrina, Renuka, Priti, Rajni & Marise

Meheru, Boman, Perin & Jehangir

George, Karim, Faisal, Maeve, Karina, Marise & Maeve

Lax & Preeti

Altaf, Khalid & Taj

Renuka & Shoba

Dr Ali, Adnan, Faye, Rashida & Hussein

Hassan & Rakan

Vanessa & David

Preetham, Kalyan, Sabu, Rabbi, Richard & Sabrina

Shaileja, Karina, Meher Anil & Paddy

Michelle, Lisa & Glen

Qhatan

British School Backs Charity Children and teachers from the British School of Bahrain (BSB) have pledged to support an annual charity campaign that aims to help needy foreign workers They plan to donate 150 boxes containing basic necessities towardsthe Box Appeal campaign being run by the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa

90 November 2012

Hotel general manager Panos Panagis with students

Hotel general manager Panos Panagis, with BSB students & staff members

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

BRED Reception BRED (Bahrain Real Estate Drinks) hosted a reception for members and guests at Bushido, Seef District last month

Simon, Clive, Tom & Ryan

Joanne, Ben & Clarke

Cathleen, Jennifer, Francine & Isa

Sarah, Lisa, Marion & Michele

Charlotte & Bayan

Tom & Carol

Tomes, Lucinda & Simon

Suhel, Nissar & Sheb

Tom, Harry & Cate

DJ maDJam At Coral Bay DJ maDJam, also known as Ahmad Ajam, a popular Dubai-based DJ performed the Coral Bay's Karma Lounge, and gave a number of party people a dose of his house and techno sets

DJ MaDJam

Yuliya, Mansoor & Nina

Sumer & Hisham

92 November 2012

Susan, Damien & Kate

Warren, Nilantha & Mano

Mariam & Sam

Gareth & Shariette

Bibo, Renno, Julia, Wasdi & Rani

Jekhab & Huda

Dan & Mhairi

Leena & Paul

Ashley & Azza

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

The 4th Annual HRM Summit 2012 Under the patronage of HE Dr Abdul Hussain Mirza, Minister of Energy, the 4th annual HRM Summit was held at the Bahrain Conference Centre, Crowne Plaza Bahrain. The theme for the two-day summit was 'Putting the 'Human' back in Human Capital'

HE Dr Abdul Hussain Mirza

Sridhar

Hassan Jarar, Sridhar, Brad Boyson, Dr Ahmed Al Shaikh & Mohammed Mahmood Al Shaikh

Yousif & Mahdi

94 November 2012

Suad, Amal & Amal

Naseema, Ali, Fatima & Reema

Dr Ibrahim

Abdulla, Khalid & Nael

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Strathclyde Business School Charity Event The Strathclyde Business School in Bahrain held a charity event to commemorate the World Mental Health Day. As part of the event, the school was to raise funds from various organisations to donate to various charitable institutions. The event was held at Dohat Arad in Muharraq last month

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Mala, Ron & Maria

Elvin & Abhishek

STEAKS BBQ BABY BACK RIBS PRIME RIB BURGERS SEAFOOD BRICK OVEN PIZZA BUFFETS FRIDAY BRUNCH Military 14BD ID-Required

FOOTBALL 7:30PM

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday

BMI team members

PITCHER & PIZZA LOUNGE SPECIALS

LADIES NIGHT! 7-10PM EVERY TUESDAY

Ali, Essa, Mariam, Werine, Milushka, Mohsin & Sameera

Unlimited Selected Beverages

LADIES DRINK FREE!

HAPPY HOUR

DRINK SPECIALS

SATURDAY-WEDNESDAY Hussen, Moosa, Ahmed & Talal

Abhishek & Sameera

4-8PM

We Can Accommodate and Cater Any Event, Party, Seminars, Business Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner!

FREE DELIVERY!

Arthur, Lynette & Ron

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Khorrani & Hawra

TEL: 17725550 EMAIL: ricsbah@yahoo.com November 2012 95

bystanderthismonth

Gulf Hotel Reception Ian McKie, area general manager Gulf Hotel, hosted a reception for members of the diplomatic community, government officials & VIPs at the hotel's Convention Centre

Ian McKie

HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador & HE Shaikh Abdulla bin Thamer Al Thani, Qatari Ambassador

Salman, Yousif & Mahmood

96 November 2012

Dr Dhafer Al Umran

HE Shaikh Suleiman bin Saud Al Jabiri, Omani Ambassador & HE Nejib Senoussi, Algerian Ambassador

HE Karim Al Shaker

Imbi Sarv & Albert Yeh

HE Dr. Abdulmohsen bin Fahad Al Marek, Saudi Ambassador & HE Mohammed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador

Ahmed Mahmood, Ebrahim Yousif & Jalal Hussain

Snej & Mohammed

Osama Hamdy, HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador & Vera Smirnova

Salah & Faraj

Mohammed Janahi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringthismonth

Safety and Style With a superb coupé exterior, one new car model is raising the bar where ride comfort and safety are concerned.

Several new high-tech features make the Volvo V40 the most intelligent and safest car in its segment. Featuring a park assist aid, a lane keeping function, pedestrian safety technology and a blind-spot information system, the model sets high standards in the hatchback class.

“This Volvo will beat out competition flawlessly with its advanced features and sleek design coinciding with our ‘Designed Around You’ strategy,” says Emre Karaer, sales and marketing director of Volvo Cars Middle East. “It is more than just a compact hatchback perfect for the family; it can be personalised to fit your needs.”

The car’s high performance is undeniably impressive as is the number of inbuilt connectivity and mobile features that allows the driver to conduct business on the move.

Also this month

99 x Wheels - 100 x Showcase

www.bahrainthismonth.com

“The new park assist option makes parallel parking both easy and precise. The function takes over and operates the steering wheel while the driver handles the gearbox and controls the car’s speed. The parking manoeuvre is based on front, rear and side-facing ultrasonic sensors and a lane keeping aid has been adopted, to help the driver stay in their lane,” adds Emre.

Safety is the manufacturer’s trademark, so it is no surprise that the first-ever pedestrian airbag makes its debut in the V40.

The rear end of the bonnet is released and at the same time elevated by the deploying airbag.

“The inflated airbag covers the area under the raised bonnet and approximately one third of the windscreen area and the lower part of the A-pillar. The raised bonnet and airbag will help reduce the severity of pedestrian injuries,” Emre explains.

The V40 model additionally boasts pedestrian detection; a technology that is seen in no other car in this class. With full auto brake, the system can detect if a pedestrian steps out in front of the car. If the driver does not respond in time, the car can automatically activate the brakes.

For better visibility, drivers are offered a radar-based blind spot information system. Along with looking out for vehicles in the driver’s blind spots, the technology can now monitor and alert the driver of rapidly approaching vehicles up to 70 metres behind the car.

Furthermore, a cross-traffic alert feature uses radar sensors at the rear end of the car to warn the driver of crossing traffic when reversing out of a parking space. This is especially helpful in tight and crowded areas where the side view might be limited. E Call 17 736-222.

When? November 1 Event? Karting competition Venue? BIC Don’t miss round five of the exciting Karting Sprint Championship.

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When? November 2 Event? Kart tournament Venue? BIC A trial run to see which racers can make it to the Red Bull Kart Final.

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When? November 2 Event? Auto X championship Venue? BIC Watch as your favourite racers speed by in this exciting new race.

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When? November 9, 23 and 29 Event? Open track Venue? BIC Test your car’s limits and how fast it can go by going for a spin on a real circuit.

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When? November 12, 26 Event? Drag and drift Venue? BIC Ever wanted to be a drag racer?

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E Call 17 450-000.

November 2012 97

motoring

AL HADDAD MOTORS

An Iconic Family One elite motoring brand shows that our desires for cars is not diminishing. A range of models inclusive of innovative features ensures that business is booming.

Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East and Levant have reached a regional milestone; the company has released sales figures of over 15,000 models for the latest generation E-Class. The series has achieved grown in popularity since its 2009 Middle East launch.

Led by the E 300 model, the E-Class is available in sedan, coupé or cabriolet variants. It represents an understatement of success for ‘high flyers’ worldwide.

“We offer our customers an unparalleled range of products.

The E-Class is setting benchmarks not only for market success and our drive for a record year in 2012, but also with regard to safety, comfort and efficiency,” says Graeme Newport, general manager of Al Haddad Motors.

Executive care The brand values of comfort, safety and reliability have all been ingrained into the core of the current model series, the E-Class Sedan. “The luxury executive car makes a logical choice for many leading hotel and airline fleets, shown by a recent partnership with Emirates Airlines first class passenger chauffeur service,” Graeme explains.

A combination of state-of-the-art assistance and protection systems makes this vehicle the trendsetter in the field of safety. Around a dozen different assistance systems are available to customers, including the standard-fitted Attention Assist system. “The innovative feature monitors more than 70 parameters to determine a driver’s level of concentration, enabling it to warn the motorist in time if he or she is suffering

98 November 2012

from fatigue,” outlines Graeme.

The car also scores well among customers when it comes to value; it was declared the “2011 Value Champion” as a result of an assessment carried out by Auto Build magazine and Eurotax Schwacke.

More than a sports car The E-Class Coupé is the most sought-after model in its executive car segment — it’s athletic, striking and passionate.

It offers a combination of two attributes for which the Mercedes brand is known for: fascination and efficiency.

With its classic coupé side aspect and fully retractable side windows, the new two-door boasts a particularly dynamic design.

Bring the roof down The Cabriolet model makes an emphatic statement in the luxury convertible segment. Clear lines and distinctive forms are prevalent in this model — from the dynamic, arrowed front to the muscular rear end, giving the car impressive headturning presence.

“When driving with the roof closed the soft top looks sleek and effortless, while with the roof down the stunning lines of the car are accentuated further, giving the passengers a truly regal feel.

The sporty and elegant interior impresses with particularly highgrade materials and first-class workmanship,” Graeme says.

E Call 17 785-454.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Class Above DAVID M. ROBERTSON Aiming to make further inroads to the mid-size sedan car market, the allnew Nissan Altima is exactly what it says it is — a completely new model.

Model Nissan Altima Model year 2013 Engine type 3.5-litre V6 engine Displacement 3,498 cc Horsepower 270 hp @ 6,400 rpm Torque 340 Nm @ 6,400 rpm Transmission Continuously variable transmission

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When a company or brand finds itself in the number two position in a market segment, as Nissan does with the Altima within the Middle East, there is always a temptation to slip into the ‘me-too’ mindset. Such thinking, though, simply did not enter the mind of those spearheading the newest edition of this popular model.

“We have changed everything except the DNA of the vehicle,” says Declan McCluskey, chief executive at Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons. “Our objective was to offer a level of quality and comfort that a customer would normally find in the segment class above the Altima.”

That translates into a car for which perceptions needs to be cast aside, as was obvious at the launch of Altima last month in Dubai.

With a tagline ‘innovation that excites’, Nissan certainly did not disappoint with its high technology and imaginative launch set.

Out on the roads of the emirate, I had the opportunity to put this theory into practice. If you have never driven a Nissan before, then you will immediately be struck by an innovative transmission system not found on other vehicles.

We are all used to the sound of an engine when we change gear; the revs go up, reach a peak and then fall back down again. Accompanying this ‘routine’ is a very particular sound.

With Nissan vehicles you get a very different sound as a result of its continuously variable transmission (CVT) system.

In effect, this means there are no gears in the traditional context; instead, as you accelerate, the engine offers the level of power demanded in a constant and even manner. The result is a sound equivalent to a rolling body of water easing its way to the coastline, rather than one with waves that constantly rise and crash.

wheels

There is, of course, a benefit to this approach — greater engine efficiency and fuel economy. For those who like a bit of ‘jargon’, CVT optimises the opening of the intake values at high rpm to keep the torque curve flat.

Inside the Altima, the refined touches back up the ‘class above’ claim. There’s the driver seat, inspired by zero-gravity research, to maximise comfort and a host of connectivity options, available through the Advanced Drive-Assist display.

Helpful technology to keep you safe is reflected in systems such as lane departure warning and blind spot warning indicators. If that were not enough, and in a ‘first’ for the midsize sedan market the Altima offers a remote engine-start system. No longer do you need to get flustered by entering a ‘boiling’ hot car in the middle of the summer. Simply start the engine remotely and let the car cool itself!

The Altima is available in two engine options — a 2.5- and 3.5-litre V6 — and with different trim options with the 2.5-litre model to suit your own requirements.

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons are the exclusive distributor for Nissan in the Kingdom. Head to the showroom today to be one of the first people to test drive the new Altima, which has a special launch offer price starting from BD7,995. E Call 17 732-732.

November 2012 99

motoring EURO MOTORS

Innovative Change

Paul Yates

Securing an optimal use of resources is frequently a challenge for even the best-run businesses. Being innovative is often the path to a solution.

As we drive down one of the two main car showroom ‘alleys’ in the Kingdom, in Sehla or Sitra, we are doubtless impressed by the range of ‘dream’ cars available in the shop windows.

Like the tip of an iceberg, though, the store front is a veneer for a much bigger operation in the back office.

Unless our ‘motor’ requires a service — which, let’s face it, is not that often with the quality of cars on the road today — we could easily live in ignorant bliss when it comes to knowing anything about the machinations of the mechanics.

In recent months Euro Motors realised that success can, on occasions, bring with it an issue or two that requires resolution. Specifically, with an increased number of BMW and MINI vehicles on our streets, the requirement for regular maintenance and servicing has correspondingly increased.

With little space available for expansion, some innovation was required.

“We are pleased to announce the Kingdom’s first night shift operation for vehicle maintenance,” says Paul Yates, the general manager at Euro Motors. “By being creative with the way we work, we’ve also enhanced our ability to service our customers.”

It should be noted, however, this night shift operation does not mean that you can pop into Euro Motors at 3am to check out the tyre pressure.

“The day and night shifts have a clear break between the two,” notes Paul. “There is no handover of work; the two shifts have very different tasks to perform.”

Essentially, those working during the day maintain customer vehicles; those at night keep the fleet of in-house vehicles in shape — courtesy and demonstration cars together with those acquired from a trade-in that require a complete check before appearing in the pre-owned showroom.

“Since we started the night shift, not only are we getting a better use of resources but we’re also delivering a faster turnaround for customers,” Paul says. “The new operation is working well and we are very pleased with the results.”

It’s funny, isn’t it, how simple solutions often turn out to be the best? E Call 17 750-750.

Elegance and Comfort

Maserati GranTurismo Sport

100 November 2012

Euro Motors has launched the Maserati GranTurismo Sport at its Sitra showroom.

“The GranTurismo Sport represents the evolution of the GranTurismo series, which is among the most successful in Maserati’s history,” commented Paul Yates at the launch. “Its eye-catching design, sporty handling and high performance, combined with elegance and passenger comfort, make it an attractive proposition for sports car enthusiasts who are also looking for comfort and elegance.”

More power, more torque, more menacing bodywork and a more spacious interior define the new Maserati GranTurismo

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BMW 7 Series

Refined Luxury David M. Robertson

Step inside the BMW 750Li and you’ll discover new levels of luxury, comfort and power that deliver a powerful driving experience.

Euro Motors has welcomed the new and refined 7 Series model — the flagship model for the brand — to the Kingdom.

“This model is set to strengthen its leading position as the most dynamic and innovative luxury sedan in the premium automotive segment,” says Paul Yates, the general manager at Euro Motors, as he introduces me to the BMW 750Li, which comes with a brand new V8 engine.

“A number of subtle but significant design and technology modifications have been made to give the car a stronger presence on the road and provide an even more luxurious and powerful driving experience.”

The first and most eye-catching enhancement to the exterior design is the new Adaptive LED front headlights. These feature the BMW corona rings and a smart accent strip, which projects a distinctive appearance both day and night.

The exterior changes have also been upgraded with a new front and rear bumper, new kidney grille and indicators integrated into the lower section of the exterior mirrors.

A key element of the brand’s DNA has always been the topclass materials, quality workmanship and outstanding practicality found inside a BMW. The new 7 Series ups the game even

Sport. This reflects the brand’s tradition of offering rich sporting character and high performance while also delivering comfort for four adults and effortless elegance and sophistication.

Capable of sprinting to 100 km/h in only 4.7 seconds and reaching 300 km/h, the GranTurismo Sport is powered by a 4.7litre V8 engine.

One of the most noticeable areas of change is the new headlights. While retaining the external shape of the headlights, they now carry all-new internal technology, including the addition of ‘Daytime Running Light LED’ technology.

The steering wheel is also new and is now more ergonomic and better suited to sports driving, thanks to a flatter rim and an accentuated grip profile.

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further when it comes to interior comfort and luxury.

The driver and front passenger can now relax into newlydesigned leather seats offering optimum lateral support and unbeatable long-distance comfort. Individual seats are also available as an option for the rear and can be adapted to passengers’ needs. An optional rear seat entertainment package comes with a new 9.2-inch flat screen monitor, while the new 1,200-watt Bang & Olufsen High End Surround Sound System delivers unrivalled sound quality.

A class-leader in advanced technology, BMW’s ConnectedDrive have been enhanced to ensure that the 7 Series maintains its innovative edge over its rivals. Tailored to the Middle East market, the on-board iDrive control system has an Arabic interface and navigation system.

In the cockpit, the all-new multifunctional instrument display behind the steering wheel meets all of the driver’s needs. The Control Display in the centre of the instrument panel has also benefited from visual and technical improvements and now uses high-resolution 3D graphics.

When it comes to efficiency and performance, technology such as Brake Energy Regeneration and the coasting function raise the bar in a manner we have come to expect from BMW. Alongside the flagship BMW 760Li with its 12-cylinder engine and the entry-level BMW 730i engine, customers can also choose from the new six-cylinder in-line engine powering the BMW 740Li as well as the new V8 engine in the 750Li.

Maserati GranTurismo Sport

November 2012 101

motoring

KIA MOTORS

Unwavering Drive Korea’s oldest car manufacturer combines product quality with strategic marketing to advance its international image and appeal.

102 November 2012

Kia Motors Corporation is one of the ‘Top 100 Best Global Brands’ according to a 2012 study by world renowned agency, Interbrand. The car manufacturer is now estimated to be worth US$4.1 billion, which sets it at 87th place on the rankings.

This rise in popularity mirrors the company’s recent surge in profits, cementing its position as the world’s fastest growing major automakers. Over a three-year period, annual global sales have grown by 81 per cent to nearly 2.5 million units.

“Entering this list validates our commitment to continuously provide exciting and inspiring experiences. It’s amazing to see what we can accomplish by staying true to who we are; a young and dynamic challenger that goes beyond expectations,” says Claire Chai, vice president of marketing at Kia Motors.

In addition to the major advances the company has made on the product front, Kia Motors has also been executing numerous large-scale marketing initiatives that have helped raise awareness of their vehicles.

Sponsorship agreements have been made with premier

sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, Australian Open and National Basketball Association. Plus, Kia’s strong presence on social media channels has resulted in engaging its young-atheart customers.

Innovative advertising campaigns have also played a major role in boosting the company’s name on the international stage. One such ad was the eccentric music-loving hamster TV commercial seen in the USA for the iconic Soul urban crossover vehicle.

With over 2.5 million vehicles being produced every year, Kia is now in the big league, with vehicles produced at 15 manufacturing and assembly operations in ten countries. These are then sold and distributed within 149 countries.

E Call 17 408-000.

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ZAYANI MOTORS

Award Winner Opt for a car that features a smooth and distinctive exterior styling and is one of the most attractive sports cars on the road.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Peugeot has recently marked a major milestone as its newest model, the RCZ, receives the prestigious Middle East ‘Coupe of the Year’ award. This recognition is a reward for the successful launch of the car in the region which, after only eight months on sale, has already taken second place in the coupé segment in the Middle East.

“The RCZ is no ordinary vehicle. It is the perfect combination of stunning style and technical prowess striking a breakthrough in the range of sports cars but with a matchless class of its own,” says Mohammed Zaki, general manager of Zayani Motors, the official distributors of Peugeot in the Kingdom.

“Over the years, Zayani Motors has consolidated its position as one of the most innovative dealerships for Peugeot that offers value-added packages and excellent customer service.

Since its introduction in 2010, it has been reaping several awards and has gained immense popularity in a very short span of time,” he adds.

The model features a state-of-the-art 1.6-litre engine offering top performance and low fuel consumption. The cabin is accented with

a leather-wrapped dashboard, chrome-ringed instruments and electrically adjustable front seats upholstered in leather.

Connectivity, functionality and entertainment were all considered in the design of the RCZ. The sports car is equipped with a six-speaker stereo with CD, USB, auxiliary and Bluetooth connectivity as well as cruise control.

Rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlamps, fog lamps, front and rear parking sensors and 18-inch alloy wheels are additionally available in the standard model.

With the aim of satisfying all of the driver’s senses, RCZ demonstrates excellent road, holding ability with hydraulic power steering. The inverted front suspension and trailing arm rear suspension supplement the delivery of an altogether unique driving experience. E Call 17 703-703.

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Escada & Savoy Watches Launch Asia Jewellers held a reception to mark the launch of two exquiste timepieces, from Escada, debuting for the first time in Bahrain and Savoy, debutant watchmaker. The event was held at the Asia Jewellers stand at the Jewellery Arabia 2012 held last month

Fatiha, Adel, Naresh, Elyana Jaffar, Deepak & Nadya

Nabeela, Elyana & Nabiha

Shiraz, Deepak, Nadya, Fatiha & Waleed

Fatiha, Deepak, Waleed, Khalid, Madhu, Shiraz, Jayakumar, Jamal, Naresh & Nadya

Mohammed Jaffar & Naresh

Khalid & Deepak

Lakshmi

where passion for food can be savored concept by

ADLIYA Osama Bin Zaid Avenue Cheesecake with Raspberry

104 November 2012

Delivery 17 000 121 www.bahrainthismonth.com

reporthealth&fitness

A Brand New You alison coldridge

End the year on a high note by embarking on a healthy journey. Reach your optimum weight and respect your body by eating what’s right for you.

Also this month

Let’s face it; Bahrain is hardly the most health-conscious country in the world. In fact, health and fitness aren’t on most people’s agenda at all. The hot climate prevents us from conducting daily forms of exercise such as walking and jogging and the rich foods available are difficult to resist.

And so we need to adapt. Forget about battling the heat and sign up to fitness classes or a gym, as there are many available! Step away from the junk food and instead let an expert advise you on what you should be consuming.

We’ve contacted some of the top facilities in the country and outlined what each centre offers to help you make an informed decision on where you should go.

Body Zone, Gulf Hotel The Gulf Hotel’s health club is well-rounded, as you would expect from the five-star hotel. Boasting a mix of classes, tennis and squash courts, personal trainers, swimming pool and advanced cardiovascular area, both men and women can work out in whatever way they see fit. If you decide to seek the assistance of a personal trainer you are entitled to a diet programme to help you control what you eat. A variety of classes are conducted throughout the week: fit ball and stretching, stretch and relax, aero pop and body jam, aero combo, aero kae bo, zumba, yoga and 20-20-20 — an intense trio of classes in one hour. Body Zone is looking to offer spinning and aqua aerobics too. E Call 17 713-000.

Bodyline Sports and Spa At Bodyline, ladies can work out in the fully-equipped gym or swim in the temperature-controlled pool.

Plenty of fitness classes are held each day, with favourites including yoga and zumba as well as spin, step and sculpt, total body conditioning, fit ball, circuit training, Pilates and pregnancy Pilates.

If you prefer to work out one-on-one, ask for a session with the personal trainer. Prices start from BD12 for a member and BD15 for non-members. E Call 17 793-932.

Carlton Nutrition Centre If you are struggling to take control of your eating habits and weight, the experts at Carlton Nutrition Centre are here to help you out. The facility designs weight-control programmes and wellbeing services to help you lose, gain or maintain weight in addition to improving your athletic performance. The dieticians put together meals for each day and deliver them directly to your home or office to ensure what you are eating is right for you. A similar service is the healthy business lunch deal ideal for those who simply don’t have time to make a nutritional meal every day. E Call 17 255-044.

107 x Carlton Nutrition Centre - 109 x InterContinental Regency Hotel - 110 x Hypoxi

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November 2012 105

reporthealth&fitness Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Ladies are lucky enough to have the choice of two health clubs at the Diplomat. One gym is mixed and the second is a women’s only spa which has its own exclusive gym. Filled with the latest technology and exercise gear, including state-of-theart Nautilus and Star Trac cardio equipment, you can opt to work each muscle in a number of different ways. Furthermore, there are plenty of weights and stretching aids available to use.

The hotel runs classes in the two health clubs and has a large outdoor pool which members are welcome to cool off in.

E Call 17 731-316.

Dream Body Centre This centre offers a promise to help you achieve your “Dream Body” in just three 23-minute sessions per week. It is not a diet centre or clinic, instead you lose fat and tone muscle by training on specially designed circuit training equipment.

This process will not put your health at risk and has no harmful side effects. It consists of an effective fat burning process that works fast. No more risks, no more lies, no more hassle, no more time wasted and no more boredom at the gym!

E Call 17 582 982.

Dessange Health Club Dessange’s exercise classes are varied, with over 50 per week to suit the needs of the members. It is advisable to book in advance as the classes tend to fill up quickly — particular zumba, zumba toning, and spinning.

Packages and incentives are offered to both members and non-members. Members receive 20 per cent discount on all spa and salon services, in addition to complimentary aerobic classes, fitness assessments and personal training sessions.

Non--members can join the group exercise classes and undergo private Pilates with a qualified instructor. If you are looking to lose weight, selected members of the Dessange staff are qualified Body for Life coaches and can assist you on a 12-week journey of healthy living. E Call 17 713-999.

Equilbre Swiss ball, resistance, body sculpt, circuits, steps, aerobics and abs blast are just some of the cardiovascular-centric classes you can enrol in at Equilbre. If you are after a workout that’s unique, try a Vibrogym session. Involving a vibrating plate, the class helps to increase flexibility, strength, blood circulation and balance in addition to increasing fat loss and reducing cellulite.

New to Equilbre is the ’90 Day Plan’, which is ideal for those who need a more customised lifestyle change. This special programme comprises personal training, diet consultations, a food and exercise plan and a three-month gym pass for BD258.

Similarly, the centre offers the Thomson Diet Club: an easy to follow programme based on scientific principles. You can receive a private one-to-one weekly consultation and an eating plan tailored to your goals and lifestyle. E Call 77 066-033. continued on page108

106 November 2012

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CARLTON NUTRITION CENTER

Eat Healthy; Live Healthy

In this fast-paced world, it can be a struggle to find the time to prepare healthy meals three times a day.

Demolish this stress by allowing an expert nutrition centre to do it for you.

Boasting a wide range of weight control programmes and wellbeing services, Carlton Nutrition Centrer is a go-to for anyone hoping to keep their health in check. A team of professional dietitians can help you lose, gain or maintain weight whilst simultaneously improving your athletic performance. By meeting the standards of the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics, the centre helps you embark on a journey of lifelong wellness.

An individual and personalised diet programme is created for you; inclusive of three meals a day and snacks that are delivered straight to your home or workplace.

This menu includes a variety of dishes inspired by a range of cuisines, each filled with the necessary intake of energy and nutrients. And best of all, this is done without compromising on taste — you can even enjoy a dessert each day as all sweet items are naturally prepared and low in calorie content.

Moreover, the centre indulges business people with delicious lunch boxes to provide them with the energy they need for enhanced performance and productivity.

In addition to your meal plan, you will be kept in check by the centre’s dietitians through motivational sessions. You will be asked to attend periodic follow-up visits to help the experts monitor your progress to ensure that you are headed in the right direction. E Call 17 255-044.

Preventive

30 days

123 BD

Per Box*

4.5 BD

For more info +973 17 255 044 cpncbh@carlton-nutrition-center.com

minimum of 10 days purchase

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2012 107

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from page106

Hypoxi At Hypoxi, the team help clients reduce body fat by achieving optimum blood circulation in the body areas of concern.

Targeted areas are put under pressure by a vacuum — based on the principle of cupping — and compression.

Moderate kinetic exercise is used to stimulate the metabolism. Redundant fat is activated and transported via the blood circulation to be burned in the muscles.

Hypoxi improves the unattractive appearance of cellulite and strengthens the dermal and connective tissue for a firmer and more beautiful complexion.

A current package includes nutritional guidance from the facility’s clinical nutritionist that consists of two visits along with the purchased Hypoxi sessions. E Call 17 626-726.

InterContinental Regency Health Club The InterContinental Regency’s Health Club is well-known in the Kingdom. The high-tech gym features a wide range of exercise equipment, including many cardiovascular machines. Cool off after your workout by taking a swim in the cool rooftop pool.

A large studio space hosts numerous aerobic-style exercise classes, including spinning and zumba. E Call 17 208-355.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Ensure your little ones stay fit by showing them the fun in fitness. With a range of classes available for different ages, you can take along children aged from six weeks to 13 years.

The centre works to build their physical fitness, confidence and self-esteem as well as working on motor skills.

A non-competitive gymnastics programme is very popular and you can even host your child’s birthday party at the centre on Thursday and Saturday afternoons.

108 November 2012

Currently, a 15 per cent discount is being offered to all new members when signing up for a three-month gym session.

E Call 17 566-566.

VLCC With a history of helping people regain their shape and confidence, VLCC helps you lose weight without the need for crash diets, strenuous exercise, medicine or surgery.

The facility offers a blend of the latest scientific technologies along with nutritional and lifestyle counselling to help you feel and look better. A wide choice of treatments is available, including waist and tummy trim, body firming, bio energy, neuro muscular and cellulite control therapies.

You will be individually assessed by a specialist and a treatment path will then be devised dependent on what you want to achieve and what your body needs.

E Call 17 404-354 (Zinj) or 17 684-880 (Isa Town).

World Beat Fitness Centre and Café Known for its friendly atmosphere and holistic approach to fitness, World Beat welcomes men, women and children. The centre helps customers get fit through various programmes, believing that “through movement we find health”.

Classes include nia, Pilates, belly dancing, cardio sculpt, kids’ ballet, karate, taekwondo, capoeira, and zumba and yoga, which are the two most popular sessions.

Currently, there are two fitness tickets available; four sessions for BD18 and ten sessions for BD35, in addition to the regular walk-in fee of BD5.

Follow up your class with a cup of organic Fair Trade coffee or whole leaf Tchaba Tea at the centre’s popular café.

E Call 17 612-576.

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INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY

A State of Tranquility It has already been your go-to workout venue for years. At the InterContinental Regency Health Club, you are spoilt for choice.

Join the InterContinental Regency Health Club and Spa and embark on a journey through a world of health and wellness. If it’s a stylish, dynamic and spacious exercise environment you’re after, the gymnasium here will not disappoint you. Home to some of the most advanced equipment and programmes; they promise you the ideal workout for the perfect body.

Apart from having a fully equipped cardiovascular exercise suite for guests at the club to make use of, the InterContinental Regency Health Club also offers a range of group fitness classes, including aerobics, aeroboxing, combat and Latin mix. Working one-on-one with a personal trainer gives you the freedom to focus on development specific to your needs and abilities. Combining technology with innovation, their methods get results, far beyond those that you could expect to achieve independently.

Enhance your cleansing and energising routine with a visit to the steam room followed by the sauna and pool. This is a brilliant way to flush the toxins from your body, getting rid of the weekend’s excesses and helping you to prepare your body for mental and physical wellbeing.

Take advantage of the 'early bird' promotion between 6am and 1pm to avail 50 per cent discount on the membership packages. The club is now home to two new programmes: combat on Saturdays and Mondays, and Latin mix on Wednesdays, both from 7-8pm.

Therapeutic qualities Switch into relaxation mode with their exotic treatments from Spain. The Bruno Vassari products make for great body and

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face treatments. If you haven’t experienced a taste of true luxury, escape into their hidden oasis, where the sounds and fragrances transport you to a world of tranquillity and harmony. Skilled therapists will ensure that you feel relaxed and taken care of, while you choose between a myriad of different massages and treatments. Check out the special spa packages that can be the perfect gift for your loved ones. Visit them on Sundays and Thursdays for a 50 per cent discount on your treatment.

Time to shop ProShop is available for a new squash racquet, running shoes, jerseys or any training gear that you’ve forgotten to pick up or you’re trying to replace.

E Call 17 208-355.

Regency’s Health Tips: l Let exercise be a part of your life. l Enjoy life; don’t overstress about fitness. l An hour of exercise, five days a week, is more than enough to stay healthy. l It’s not about eating less; it’s about eating right. l Make time; if you’re very busy incorporate small exercises into your routine. l If you’re below 18, play sports. Don’t gym. l Change you’re routine often. Your body fails to respond to excessive repetition.

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HYPOXI

A Slimmer, Trimmer You Your dream body can become a reality at a new centre that has opened in the Kingdom. Sculpt your body into the size and shape that you would like it to be and keep it that way.

If you are struggling to lose weight despite exercising frequently, it may be time to receive some targeted professional help. A renowned treatment course, new to the Kingdom, offers the perfect solution for both men and women.

Hypoxi was formulated in the late 1990s by Dr Norbert Egger, an esteemed Austrian sports scientist. He noticed that many patients struggle to reduce fat in their problem areas despite regular exercise and a healthy diet. He knew that good circulation and exercise are critical to achieve weight loss in a specific area. With this knowledge in mind, he set about developing his revolutionary training concept.

With over 350,000 clients in over 40 countries, Hypoxi is taking off in Bahrain as a great option for men and women looking to burn fat, reduce cellulite, and firm up skin in a short period of time.

Personalised programmes The centre incorporates exercise with advanced vacuum technology that stimulates blood circulation in areas of the body that have very poor blood supply. This accelerates fat

110 November 2012

metabolism and improves the texture of the skin in problem zones such as the stomach, waist, hips, buttocks and thighs.

The Hypoxi studio offers a range of four different devices (trainers S120 and L250, Vacunaut trainer and Hypoxidermology) to target your own individual problem areas with a programme that is non-invasive, pain-free and unique to you.

With 12 sessions, conducted three times a week, a therapy course will allow you to lose between five and seven centimetres’ in the targeted zones.

The sessions will leave you feeling energised and it is perfect for those people needing to kick-start their weight loss journey or for those who exercise regularly but just cannot shift fat from their problem areas.

Each session consists of a 30-minute gentle workout, monitored by a well-prepared specialised team. This will be supervised by the centre’s clinical nutritionist Dr Aysha Salem Al Muftah, who promises to make your experience safe, successful and special.

E Call 17 626-726.

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Block 338 2nd Anniversary Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden hosted a party to celebrate the restaurant's 2nd anniversary last month.

Guests were treated to some fine food and vintage and were also given a chance to win the new iPhone 5, DVD Players, credit card vouchers and lots more

Mariana & Kareemi

Fady & Joan

Btisam & Mathias

Yousef, Celine & Sharokh

DJ Eric

Mariana & staff cutting the cake

Clodagh, Kathleen, Joy & Leona

Fifi, Emma & Laura

112 November 2012

Anna, Yulia & Marion

Emile & Pamela

Jaswin

Paresh & Mariana

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Weekends At Bushido Bushido in the Seef District hosted Weekends@Bushido, two unforgettable nights of surprises, ehtno-house music, fire-shows, entertainment & more

Budi, Pierre, Laura & Sebastian

Jorge & Olga

Edward, Adele, Tinker Bell, Buffalo & Jina

Zeina & Laura

Ghie & Wendell

Vikki & Ghie

Zee & Zainab

Ken & Maria

Anna & John

Natalia & Victoria

Nabil & Jola

Natasja & Willy

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November 2012 113

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Maserati Launch Euro Motors held a launch for the all-new Maserati GranTurismo Sport, Maserati's latest version of the coupe.

The event was held at the Maserati Showroom, Euro Motors, Sitra last month

Abdulredha

Badriya & David

114 November 2012

The stunning Maserati GranTurismo Sport

Navin

Meher, Marise, George & Paul

Paul Yates & Majid Al Zayani

Mayukh & Rami

Majid & Adel

Badriya & Sajida

Heba

Meher & Majid

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Ron Kaufmann Workshop Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) today hosted International expert Ron Kaufman in an executive level workshop on service leadership. The workshop titled "Uplifting Customer Service and Building Service Cultures" was held to a sell-out audience at Crown Plaza Hotel's Bahrain Convention Centre last month

Ron Kaufmann

Mathew, Buvana, Subhadra & Anuradha

Ahmed & Ali

Fatima, Mariam & Mariam

Thrilling Performance

daily 8:30pm onward.

* Happy Hour till 7pm * party of the Week-Every Thursday Not to be missed.

Ameera, Amani & Osama

Salah & Ismail

Enjoy delectable Latin Cuisine, heavenly desserts, and signature cocktails

Aala, Marwa, Sameera, Abeer & Siddiqa

Marta, Fateen, Amal & Khalid

Zainab

*Live Band performance daily 9pm onward * Happy Hour DAILY 8PM TO 10 PM

‫ﻓﻨــﺪق ﭘــﺎرس اﻟﺪوﻟـ ــﻲ‬

PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Tel: 17814777 Fax: 17814778

Email: info@parsbahrain.net Web: www.parsbahrain.net Hussain, Mohammed & Gloria

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Mohammed & Raed

November 2012 115

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Mรถvenpick Hotel French Cuisine Festival Launch The Mรถvenpick Hotel hosted a dinner to mark the launch of the hotel's French Cuisine Festival. The event also showcased the work of Bahraini sculptors, Ali Al Mahmeed & Fuad Al Abdulla

Sergio & Leylan

Julia, Lena, Heinz & Claudia

116 November 2012

Heinz, Fuad Al Abdulla & HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador

Nizar, Philip & Alfred

Philipo & Rocio

Heinz & Marion

Ali Al Mahmeed & Hind Al Mahmeed

Sumaya

Nabil & Jihan

Jackie & Asiah

Claudia & Lalith

Christina

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Brian Tracy Seminar The Bahrain Institute of Hospitality & Retail WLL held a seminar featuring Brain Tracy, one of the world's top speakers and teacher of personal success. The theme of the seminar was - Maximum Performance, The Keys to Personal & Business Success. The event was held at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain last month

Ibrahim Kooheji, Qutub Dadabhai & Mohammed Kooheji

Brian Tracy

Polly, Dalal, Perla, Cristy, Bissan, Layla & May

Brian & Nigel

Abbas, Omran & Adel

Duda, Madonna, Roxeanne, Shaheed, Melitta, Caroline, Ahmed & Nadeema

Explore India with our

SPECIAL BUFFET BD4.200 exclusive of service charge

Jan, Susan & Kat

Saleh

Visit us on the 1st Floor of Seef Mall, Opposite Cineplex 2 or call 17 580 480 for reservations Hassan, Mirza & Jassim

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Amina

November 2012 117

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Jamil Wafa Luncheon Jamil Wafa hosted a luncheon to bid farewell to Tom Wright, retiring Cathay Pacific general manager, India, Middle East & Pakistan and Daniel Cheung, outgoing country manager, Bahrain & Saudi Arabia and to welcome Brian Tsoi, incoming country manager, Bahrain & Saudi Arabia. The lunch held at the Capital Club, Bahrain Financial Harbour was attended by HE Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador & HE Capt Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs

Brian Tsoi, Daniel Cheung & HE Li Chen

Aziz, Samantha & Brian

118 November 2012

Ahmed & Jamil Wafa

HE Capt Abdulrahman Al Gaoud & Tom Wright

Isa, Hisham & Haifa

Tom Wright & Jamil Wafa

Jamil Wafa & HE Li Chen

Ronnie, George & Abraham

Mohammed & Shawqi

Soman

Ali & Usama

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Spices Bollywood Brunch Spices Indian Restaurant, at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain, held their Bollywood Brunch last month. The brunch will be held on the last Friday of every month

Celebrate EID with NATIONAL Car Rental

John & Lucy

Eric & Chris

Rohit & Prasanna

Alka, Arya, Meena, Balraj & Atul

Himanshu, Latesh, Jayadev & Vipin

Ridma

Across the Middle East and Around the Globe Bringing you the latest models of cars to travel through the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain.

And not surprisingly, great deals to grab followed by 24/7 customer support.

Anita, Nalini, Sunanda, Reena & Jayshree

Ashwini

Call: +973 1723 1156 Airport Branch: +973 1732 1306 E-mail: info@national-bahrain.com

www.national-bahrain.com

Saravanan, Subash & Priya

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David & Jyotsna

November 2012 119

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Hard Rock Cafe 15th Anniversary The Hard Rock Cafe on Exhibition Road hosted a party for a number of guests to celebrate it's 15 anniversary and the launch of a new menu

Hakeem, Tariq & Khalid Al Ahmed

Andy, Simone & Morexna

Mona, Sanita, Khalid & Khuloodie

120 November 2012

Alison & Alya

Marise with Issac Raju

Greg, Verna, Rose & Steve

Riaan, Elzette & Leigh

Karina & Sanita

Hassan, Ashley & Rajesh

Shani & Megan

Dr Ali Mattar & Dr Mona

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Mercedes-Benz Perfume Launch Al Hawaj and Sons launched the first Mercedes-Benz perfume in Bahrain. The launch at the Mercedes-Benz showroom in Tubli was attended by HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador & officials of Mercedes-Benz dealers Al Haddad Motors and Al Hawaj and Sons

Hussain, Mohammed, Jawad & Ahmed Al Hawaj

Abdulwahab Al Hawaj, HE Sabine Taufmann, HE Christian Testot & Majeed Al Hawaj

Ahmed, Abdulla Al Haddad & Waseem Al Haddad

Nicholas

Mohammed, Imran, Deema Al Haddad & Graeme Newport

Shaker, Sadiq, Shyam & Hazem

Faten & Hala

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Helen

Heba & Jasmin

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bystanderthismonth

Baby Shower Jennie Plamondon hosted a surprise baby shower for Ces pregnant with a baby girl. The event was held at Jennie's residence in Busaiteen

Ces & family

Ryan, Rania, Ian Jr., Jayden & Yannah

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Maria, Jane, Maricris, Maricel, Jennie, Ces, Bless, Myla, Ces, Dolyn & Quennie

Avalon & Ces

Ces & friends

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diningthismonth

Margarita Mexicana

A Dash of Colour JAMES CLAIRE A dining experience at the Margarita Mexicana introduces you to a whole new world of authentic Mexican haute couture cuisine.

In October 2009, Bahrain’s iconic Gulf Hotel made history by opening the island’s first-ever fine-dining Mexican restaurant — Margarita Mexicana. This month, the restaurant celebrates a new menu and shows an enhanced commitment to all things Mexican with a new management team all of whom are native to Mexico.

Responsible for the new menu and the return to authenticity is executive chef Naoki Katori Olivares, from Mexico City, a young man but rich in international experience including Australia and Canada. In his words, “Mexican food to most people is Tex-Mex; to others it lacks colour and presentation.

Our new menu features flavour, colour and haute couture quality. This is one of the biggest changes to the restaurant since it opened.”

Of course that is not to say that Tex-Mex does not feature on the menu. It does. It has to, as it is adored by many expatriates the globe over. But in addition to nachos, burritos and fajitas, there are some truly astonishing new dishes to sample.

Hass avocados, cilantro, chillies, spices and even chocolate utilised in the Margarita Mexicana kitchens are imported directly from Mexico, defining the difference between any guacamole and a true Mexican guacamole.

Also this month

Magarita Mexicana’s version of the ceviche de bacalao, or cod fish marinated in lime juice, Chile Serrano and red onion, is a must-have. Cilantro and cucumber make a fine starter. However, enmoladas are the perfect pick to feed the hunger while waiting for bigger plates to arrive. These are corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken, baked with salsa-mole topped and queso fresco, and topped with pickled onions and cilantro.

Fancy names are one thing, but the proof lies in the eating. Chef Naoki presents modern, stylish and delicious plates for us to enjoy.

It suffices to say that the pato en mole was remarkable. This is essentially duck breast seared and served with pecan prune mole, which itself contains the delicacies of pure Mexican chocolate. For a dish fine lining itself between true Mexican flavours and the world of Tex Mex, try the selection of fresh tacos served with salsa, onion and coriander; filled with beef, cheese, chicken, lamb, fish or shrimps. Margarita Mexicana is a stylish modern cuisine option for social dining and for celebrations. It is open Sunday to Friday from 6pm until midnight.

Restaurant manager, Silvia Perez a native of Northern Mexico prides herself on the quality service of her outlet and is quick to mention that the private dining room can be opened for a large group or separated into two or three smaller private areas for meetings or private family events. Enhancing the theme further is the live entertainment duo of Cielito Lindo which sings native Mexican folk songs and keeps the atmosphere rich with culture during one of the most amazing and tasty meals you will enjoy outside of Mexico itself. E Call 17 746-462.

When? November 1-15 Event? Food festival Venue? Le Jardin, Ramada Bahrain The season of harvest continues with the freshest local produce.

E Call 17 742-000.

When? November 1-30 Event? Food festival Venue? Trader Vic’s Are you a fan of game meat? If so, they have just the thing for you.

E Call 17 586-555.

When? November 1-30 Event? Food promotion Venue? Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Lobster fanatics are in for a treat with a variety of dishes.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? November 2-9 Event? Food festival Venue? Saraya, Sofitel Bahrain Mexican seems to be the “it” thing this month, especially here.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? November 4 Event? Wine and dine Venue? Margarita Mexicana, Gulf Hotel Try out Chilean wine at Vintage Bar and a full Mexican meal.

E Call 17 713-000.

124 x Happenings - 126 x Feature - 138 x Restaurant Listing

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Time to Eat Food festivals are all over town this month from a celebration of chocolate to those of Mexican and Vietnamese cuisines. Find out where to dine this November.

Hope you’ve built up an appetite because the second branch of Lanterns is all set to open at month’s end. Expect to see a range of contemporary dishes as it’s not just about authentic Indian anymore. Their terrace looks tempting for this weather.

Speaking of appetites, have you tried the new menu at Hard Rock Cafe on Exhibition Road? Word goes that they’ve hit the spot in terms of flavour. Then again, when have they not?

Thanksgiving needn’t always be about turkey. At least, that’s what the chef at Trader Vic’s thinks. Read on to find out what he has to offer throughout the month.

Primavera at The Ritz-Carlton has a new Italian chef de cuisine, Giulio Gatti. He has redesigned the venue itself with his unique creations. On a similar line, Bice Ristorante at Moda Mall launched an Italian lunch buffet late last month.

Indulge in an all-American thanksgiving dinner at Klouds in The K Hotel at BD12++ inclusive of a welcome drink. If you’d like the drinks to keep on coming, go for the BD19.500++ package. This hotel in Juffair has another treat for you. Watch out for Kenza Lounge for the finest in Arabic dining. The interiors reflect Arabian themes and the live music gives it a traditional touch. Expect authentic Lebanese cuisine at its best.

Outdoor seating is also available, perfect for shisha lovers.

Smaller groups have three private rooms to choose from.

For those of us in love with Japanese food, Maki is a mustvisit. The venue has launched a new iPad menu enabling diners to actually see and choose their dishes with ease. This is great for first-timers.

Celebrating food The autumn fair is still on at Ramada Bahrain Hotel in Adliya.

Find the freshest of ingredients prepared in several interesting way until November 15; enjoy the harvest season.

Sheraton Hotel Bahrain is going all out this month. If you thought their thanksgiving specials were too good to believe, you should check out their lobster promotion in Soie, their Chinese restaurant. On the menu are spicy Szechwan, Beijing, stir-fried, sizzling and Cantonese style grilled lobster.

In The Gulf Hotel, the focus seems to be on Mexican cuisine this month. Margarita Mexicana has a new menu worth trying.

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Book your table for November 4 as they host the Chilean wine dinner that follows the reception at the Vintage Wine Bar. Get sushi for half the price at Sato on November 18. China Garden tempts you to indulge in dimsums all month long.

Sofitel Bahrain brings forth a week-long Mexican gastronomic and cultural festival from November 1-9. Try out the Mexicanthemed Friday brunch between these days. The Mexican dinner buffet at Saraya will be held from November 2-9. Renowned chef Cordon Bleu will man the stations during the festival. The hotel’s Italian venue, Fiamma, hosts a cooking class with Chef Steffano on November 3. He introduces a new menu this month focusing on the Lazio region. Wok, also in Sofitel Bahrain, invites you to try out their dimsums all month long. La Mer launches a new food and wine pairing menu on November 28. If you love chocolate, head over to their lobby lounge between November 25 and 29.

The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre is all set for New Year celebrations. If you want to be a part of it, book ahead of time for their amazing dinner at Baharat.

Discover Vietnamese cuisine at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain.

Every night from November 12-18, the venue will spread a spectacular buffet in partnership with Emirates Airline and Mövenpick Hotel Saigon. The food festival kicks off at Silk’s and moves on to the terrace for those who enjoy al fresco dining. Many live cooking stations showcase the various delicacies from northern, central and southern regions of Vietnam. Dine here for a chance to win a flight to Saigon with a three night stay at Mövenpick Hotel. The event supports the nonprofit organisation, Koto. On November 13-15, you could also join the cooking class and understand the culture a little further.

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diningcuisinefeature

Burger, We Wrote Elma Bartholomew Once the ultimate comfort food, the burger is increasingly becoming a gourmet indulgence. We scour the nation for all kinds of patties.

Perhaps it has something to do with the calorie content, but much like every other guilty pleasure, the burger craze shows no signs of fading. Of course, watching that waistline is mandatory in a country threatened by obesity. Nevertheless, everyone is allowed a cheat day in their diet plan and what better way to do so than to sink your teeth into a juicy burger.

As we had our fun investigating, we spotted everything from the regular old school layers to modern takes on the meat patty and toasted bun combo. They aren’t all created equally with some chefs getting their groove on with the fast-food icon, flaunting years of expertise in various kitchens.

Some combinations are classically simple, while others get fancy. Buns range from sesame-seed to rolls. Toppings are all over the map, too. There’s fine cheese to regular mayo, grilled onions to chips, shredded bacon to jalapenos, and then there’s the burger’s best friend — ketchup.

However, even the best burger is part skill and part personal preference. The dizzying variety can leave you confused. So, we did the leg work (and chomping) for you.

The one-offs Burgers are quick, satisfying and a great value meal, so most folks don’t care that they are usually served in run-of-the-mill diners or corner taverns. Lately, the humble hamburger has undergone a transformation. In fact, it has gone decidedly upscale.

Taking the classic dish to a new level is Elevation Burger in new extension of Seef Mall with the mantra “ingredients matter”. If the tagline doesn’t explain it enough, the “100 per

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cent organic” sign should. The feel-good factor doesn’t necessarily have to come with a bundle of guilt. After all, grassfed beef is a whole lot healthier. With perfect seasoning and a home-made touch, this venue has a unique setting which gives you a good view of the mall’s atrium and kids’ playing area.

Swinging in an entirely opposite direction is Fat Burger in Bahrain City Centre. This bad boy is your weapon against a hangover. This is one place you needn’t be conscious about a meal towering above you. Just give them a number, and they’ll slap it all on a perfectly toasted bun. Don’t even think of skinny fries because they’re going to scream out your order for all to hear. Give in to your hankering for junk food.

Have you got a particular hamburger in mind and can’t find it on the menu? If you’re tired of having to settle for the usual “No 10 combo meal”, head over to Burger Wisconsin in Budaiya. Here, you can build your own meal. You’ll find a range of atypical add-ons from coriander mayo and caramelised onions to Indonesian satay sauce to blue cheese. Don’t imitate what you might already see on a menu. Get original; that’s what the variety of ingredients are there for. Those of you who are dining out to avoid having to prepare a meal can order from their selection of jumbo-sized dishes made to perfection by the specialists in the kitchen.

Offering a completely different atmosphere with a view of The Lagoon at Amwaj is Burger Lounge. If this dish means more than just beef to you, then this is the place to be. With a self-explanatory title, this chic venue is all about the ambience.

In this laid-back setup, you will find recipes you might not spot continued on page 128

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HARD ROCK CAFE

Fresh Dining Ideas

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After 41 years as a brand and 15 years on our shores, a popular restaurant wants you to know that they are only just getting started.

Age can sometimes bring about complacency, but that is not the case with Hard Rock Cafe. Evolving as a global brand more and more each year, Hard Rock now has 178 locations in 55 countries including restaurants, bars, hotels, casinos and live concert venues.

Bahrain’s own Hard Rock Cafe recently celebrated its 15th anniversary and promises that the best years are yet to come, vowing to step up and compete with the rest of the world’s outlets in terms of activities and events.

Located on Exhibition Road, this venue used the occasion of their birthday bash to launch a new menu of both food and beverages. They have improved the dining experience here by treating their guests to a concert of fresh flavours. Along with a new design, the menu features three main concepts: fresh is first, legendary is king and smoking is the key to enhancing flavours. Simply put, there has been no better time to dine at Hard Rock Cafe Bahrain.

Consumed with treating its customers like rock stars, the cafe wants us all to enjoy the memorabilia on offer and the unique atmosphere for any event of our choice. From networking and corporate events, birthdays and bachelorette parties to product launches, annual meetings, and team building and training events, Hard Rock Cafe Bahrain is here to make your visit a fabulous show of food, fun and entertainment. E Call 17 291-569.

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diningcuisinefeature from page 126

on other menus in the Kingdom. We’ve eaten plenty a chicken burger; how many of us have indulged in a grilled salmon burger? They’ve even accommodated the vegetarians among us. The farm burger boasts a grilled soya patty topped with sautéed cabbage and drizzled with cilantro sauce.

Fifteen years after opening its doors on our shores, Hard Rock Cafe on Exhibition Road continues to stand strong in Bahrain’s burger scene. From day one, this chain has been serious about serving fresh, hand-made, classic American cooking with a Southern flair that couldn’t help but reflect co-founder Isaac Tigrett’s Tennessee roots. Even as the menu expands to encompass the best of local cuisines around the world, serving up the good stuff is still their thing. Dare to look past their “legendary” section on the menu to find the reason to head back here every day. Just like in his hometown, the “smokers” are here in Bahrain’s kitchen as well. The chef makes sure your server brings out just the right, rustic, wonderful, wood-smoke flavour you hoped for when you spotted “smokehouse” on the menu.

For the truly swanky burger, you’d have to visit Plums at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain and try, what they call, the “wow” burger experience. By far the most expensive patty in town, this is worth every penny that you excruciatingly squeeze out of your wallet. Offering pleasure and pain, this beauty is built with Wagyu beef, pan-seared duck foie gras, red berry sauce, caramelised onion and porcini mushroom compote. I can almost sense a heart attack build up just listing out the ingredients, especially so when I read BD38 on the right side of the menu.

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Feeling casual Sometimes, you just want to have something in a completely informal setting. This is usually where we end up when we can’t answer that dreaded question, “Where do you want to eat?” A shrug and a nod later, you find yourself having the comfort food of a lifetime in a completely relaxed atmosphere.

Johnny Rockets top our list of casual dining. Sending you back a couple of eras with vintage posters, tabletop jukeboxes, bar stools and interactive staff, this venue is what we’d assume a typical American diner looked like in the past. With my mouth watering as I write this, the Rocket singles and doubles are a winner for this reason. If you’ve tried it, you know what I’m talking about. If you haven’t, it’s time to find out. Also, they’ve got an affordable range of Wagyu beef for those who love a full wallet.

Chili’s has packed its menu with a set of new offerings that you can read about in the following pages. If it’s South-western flavours you’re looking for, this is your go-to place. The steaks here are must-haves. Add to them the perfect bun and a bunch of delicious toppings and there’s nothing to argue about.

Offering what is more or less a deconstructed burger is Fuddruckers which we fondly call “Fudds”. A household name that is stuck to our mind every time we think of a burger, this venue has a winning feature that simply can’t be replicated — the toppings bar. They are one of the first to handle over control to the customers to prepare the perfect meal to their own liking. The best part about dining here is they’ve got a patty size based on your level of hunger. Top that with fresh buns made in their own kitchen.

Joining the burger brigade is Blaze in Adliya. If you’re one to call the shots on everything you are a part of, you’re going to love this place. Here, you get to pick everything, and we mean everything, that goes in to your meal. Baked daily, they’ve got the white bread, the whole wheat and if you really care that much about those few extra carbs, they don’t mind wrapping your burger in lettuce.

For the ultimate casual atmosphere, you’d have to head over to Bennigan’s in Juffair, because here you have the option of downing a beer while you finish up a giant burger. Pork lovers can find the “real” bacon here as well. This is where you’d go for an early dinner on a weekend because the rest of the night has no room for dining.

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JOHNNY ROCKETS

Something for Everyone More popular today than when they were first created, the hamburger shows no signs of abating in our love for their flavour, layers and ease of dining.

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Johnny Rockets, the quintessential house of the perfect burger adds outlets to its chain to satiate our need for the delicious, quality burgers it sells. The branch at A’ali Mall in Seef has been open on our shores for seven years now; a second outlet at Amwaj Lagoon has been with us for two. The Kharafi Global Group is set to open its third outlet in Juffair in the first quarter of 2013, while a fourth is planned for Riffa in the not too distant future.

Whether you lived or even knew about 1960s Americana and its music, fun and trail-blazing food, you’ll learn that Johnny Rockets is home to the perfect burger as well as an education into this fun era.

Famed worldwide since 1986, the brand offers simple, great-tasting food from a menu of all-American favourites including juicy hamburgers, hand-dipped shakes and malts, and freshly-baked apple pie.

Johnny Rockets has even reinvented the ever popular cheese burger, offering it three ways until the end of the year.

There can be no question over scrumptious food at amazing prices when an original cheeseburger with fries comes at BD2.950. The original bacon cheeseburger and the original double cheeseburger add to the range at BD3.450 and BD3.950 respectively.

A true home for the whole family, the restaurant chain serves

its burgers, fries and sodas with a side of fun and music.

Children have their own menus and are encouraged to sit at the bright red bar stools and join in on the dancing and singing every hour when busy. With a look and feel of a time gone by, servers who know the secret behind getting ketchup out of the bottle, tabletop jukeboxes and authentic décor, Johnny Rockets returns us to when dining was enjoyable and easy.

For the true connoisseur, November sees the introduction of the premium Wagyu menu. The trial menu in its Kuwait outlets saw such success that the entire brand has taken on the Wagyu craze offering this gourmet luxury to us all. Enjoy this delicious meat in burger form starting at just BD4.500 for a Wagyu single and savour it with truffle fries or Fontana cheese fries for added luxury.

A smokehouse Wagyu will have you devouring the premium beef patty, cheddar cheese, beef bacon, a crispy onion ring and smokehouse barbecue ranch on a brioche bun. Both burgers come in a double-patty option for those with a bigger appetite.

There is also a Houston Wagyu burger on this menu offering jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, fresh lettuce and tomato with spicy sauce. Obviously, this is for those with a tolerance for hot food.

Don’t forget these divine flavours can be delivered to your doorstep for a cosier dining setup. E Call 17 566-565.

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CHILI’S

Fresh and Flavourful Having entered the Middle Eastern market in 1994, staying on top of the favourite diner list is difficult, especially when we're talking about steaks and burgers.

Launching a new menu is not an easy affair when you have 1,500 restaurants in 33 countries, eight of those outlets in Bahrain spanning the past 37 years.

With branches dotted all over Bahrain, Chili’s enhanced their commitment to its loyal customers with the launch of their new menus. This is perhaps the biggest alteration the venue has seen in a while now.

Classics and American favourites such as the legendary beef ribs, sizzling fajitas and fire-grilled steaks have been retained. New to the menu are dishes of greater flavour which stay true to the authentic South-western cuisine that the restaurant chain is famed through the years.

Texas cheese poppers and spinach queso served with warm tostado chips and dip highlight the range of starters.

The crispy, fresh BBQ chicken salad and Philly cheese steak sandwich sound equally appetising. You could also indulge in the chicken enchilada pasta dish which combines delicious grilled chicken and crispy tortilla strips. These add depth to the flavour and texture, elevating a simple dish to a sublime level.

The asking price A new menu with traditional classics as well as new items does not however mean new pricing. In fact, lunches at Chili’s are some of the most ‘value for money’ meals in the country.

For BD2.900, you can enjoy a selection of dishes such as the Cajun club sandwich, South-western Caesar salad, cilantro pesto pasta, beef bacon ranch quesadilla, loaded jack cheese sandwich and more. To top, they are all served with a bottomless beverage. Served from 12-4pm, their lunch-time specials make the midday meal a treat to look forward to. No matter where you are in the country, this restaurant chain offers an outlet right next to you. However, if you prefer dining at home, then Chili’s will deliver your order to your door, fresh and piping hot.

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Truly dedicated Committed to our palates and promising delicious, walletfriendly food, new outlets and menus are not where their advancements will cease. In coming months, we can look forward to iPad-formatted menus, bringing the brand, and us, into the digital age.

“Innovative modern designs, enhanced menus of delicious quality cuisine and a commitment to customers are all keys in remaining at the top,” states Tapan Vaidya, general manager of the restaurant division behind Chili’s.

Part of that modernity and commitment is shown in its newest outlet at The Lagoon in Amwaj Islands. It features incredible new appetisers and entrées, and an array of thirstquenching drinks and decadent desserts.

E Call 17 506-070.

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Mai Tai lounge

TRADER VIC’S

A Trendy New Look An improved lounge, a new fine dining menu and delicious bar bites are reasons enough to be feasting outdoors this month.

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The Mai Tai Lounge is named after a beverage created by Victor J Bergeron, or “Trader Vic”, for his friends who were visiting from a Polynesian island. This was 10 years after Trader Vic's, the restaurant, first opened in 1934. Since then, the word ‘Mai Tai’ conjures up visions of relaxation amidst a resplendent array of palm trees on a tropical island. Recently refurbished for cooler months, the one-of-a-kind lounge is itself everything that the word entails — fun!

The lounge as a brand was first launched in Dubai nearly six years ago; its success brought it our shores. Resting within a lagoon setting at the rear of Trader Vic’s, this venue is the place to chill out with a signature cocktail in each hand.

A trip to the lounge is one of discovery for its visitors as everything here is new, from the seating and sound system to the staff’s uniform and the menus. With its revived ambience and purple lighting that adds charm, winter nights are set to be those of intimacy in this sanctuary that combines amazing food with wonderful music. Enjoy the authentic essence of Polynesia on Bahrain’s shores from 6pm-2am daily.

With the new bar bites created by executive chef Andy Hoppe finding their place on the menu, there isn’t a chance of you leaving the place hungry and unsatisfied. The nibbles include volcano shrimp, Bora Bora dumplings, maui waui coconut shrimp and Shanghai Caesar salad.

A month of gratitude at Trader Vic's Thanksgiving is an occasion to get together and share a comforting meal with traditions that remind you of family gatherings, food and celebrations. Bearing this in mind, Andy has introduced some remarkable options to the restaurant’s menu for us to enjoy.

Not every custom is followed, though. Pre-empting turkey on the festive menu next month, the chef has chosen duck to lead his menu this November. Reminiscent of his grandmother’s desserts that she prepared for him in his younger days, Andy offers apple dishes for afters. Cooler days and Thanksgiving make the perfect time to enjoy a conventional European beverage of warm red wine infused with 13 different spices.

Apart from customary dishes, the menu also highlights pumpkins throughout the month adding to the range of healthy options he includes for those watching their waistline. If your weight doesn’t concern you, indulge in his coffee crème brûlée, a chocolate island paradise or a range of superior cheeses to end the perfect meal.

The philosophy of Trader Vic’s has always included a dedication to using only the finest ingredients from around the world. In Bahrain, it extends to providing guests with the finest dining options possible. E Call 17 586-555.

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diningf&bhappenings POMODORINI

Typically Italian There will never be enough Italian restaurants in Bahrain. A new one has opened its doors in Adliya offering a fresh burst of flavours.

RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN

Home From Home

As American as apple pie, a restaurant and lounge in Juffair has been serving southern-style family goodness in Bahrain for 15 years.

Named after an iconic ingredient in Italian cookery, Pomodorini is itself an icon of traditional rustic cookery — simple and delicious.

Situated in the heart of the Adliya business district, it has already built a regular clientele. Little wonder, considering the aromatic wonders confronting you as you enter the front door.

With a clean, crisp modern interior, this Italian trattoria seats up to 60 and is ideally designed to be split into two, allowing large or small groups to enjoy a private function while the restaurant itself continues operating.

Pomodorini is quintessential Italian at great prices. This is where you should go when you’re looking for relaxed casual dining with little fuss. Its hassle-free ambience encourages families and couples to feel at ease. After all, Italian dining is all about a shared, enjoyable experience.

Open daily for lunch and dinner and available for delivery or take-out, it is the belief of ‘fresh is best’ for all ingredients which makes the food so delicious. The pizza dough is made fresh in-house and baked in traditional ovens imported from Italy. Even the pasta is produced from scratch daily by trained chefs. Add value for money and a menu sprinkled with weekly specials to deliver the freshest seasonal delicacies; you have yourself a new favourite restaurant.

Owned and operated by Unique Restaurants Group, managing director Abdul Rasheed Puthusseri has been in charge of developing numerous brands on Bahrain’s shores over the past 16 years. Among his successes have been Panasia, Turkish Mashawi, Mumbai Spice and Alosra XL. E Call 17 000-121.

A popular eatery for everyone seeking to enjoy barbecues and good old home-style cooking as such, Ric’s Kountry Kitchen has become a ‘home away from home’ for many an expatriate.

Begin your day right with their ‘big breakfast starting at 5.30am, unless you are watching your waistline. Otherwise, loosen your belt and settle in for the BBQ smoked baby-back ribs with meat that falls from the bone or dig into the juicy burgers, steaks, brisket, pastrami, rib-eye, T-bone and fillets — all at unbelievable prices.

Buffets commence at 6pm and the week is filled with delicious variety; Southern fried chicken on Mondays, Cajun seafood on Wednesdays and Texas BBQ on Thursdays.

Split between two levels, the restaurant’s décor downstairs boasts a western theme with grandma’s home in mind.

Meanwhile, the lounge plays live country and western hits as well as Top 40 tracks until closing hours.

Moving up Upstairs is where executive chef Rolando presents his culinary artistry from around the world, especially at the live cooking stations of Italian and Mexican buffets. While Wednesday’s buffet offers certified US Black Angus and prime rib, Friday’s brunch has everything from prime rib to sushi, including unlimited selected alcoholic beverages.

Concerned for its patrons, this venue also ensures everyone makes it back safely with complimentary rides to your home. With great food, amazing entertainment and personal home delivery, Ric’s Kountry Kitchen truly is a second home. E Call 17 725-550.

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When? November 1-30 | Event? Food festival | Venue? Soie, Sheraton Hotel Bahrain

SHERATON HOTEL BAHRAIN

Myriad of Tastes Tucked inside a five-star hotel in the Diplomat area is a Chinese restaurant which uses time-tested techniques to create a careful balance of flavours.

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An oasis of serenity doubling as a Chinese restaurant is located just off the main lobby of Sheraton Hotel Bahrain. Its darkened entrance is perhaps what keeps it a secret to those of us who desire our favourites from the well-liked cuisine. The softly lit entry, however, is a transition from the bright outside of a hectic world to the calm that is Soie (pronounced ‘swa’).

The interior boasts formal and pristine décor, tastefully highlighted with Chinese lanterns, intricate ornaments and rich silks, all wrapped in soothing Oriental music. Central and dramatic to the room is a large silk-draped pergola under which dining, for larger groups, can be arranged in a manner that allows privacy. The staff are effortless in terms of professionalism and look striking in long, red, tailored Chinese cheongsam gowns or changshan jackets.

The restaurant has been in operation for a decade. Its polished wooden floors, crisp linens and gleaming silver cloches make everything dazzle as if it were a brand new entity. It remains open only for dinner from 7-11.30pm daily, except on Fridays.

A welcome luxury before ordering is warm hand towels to freshen you up and the delivery of prawn crackers for a nibble while looking through the menu. Chefs Lee Bak Lee and Choi Pha command a large selection of dishes from their homeland.

To tease the palate, they offer steamed dumplings, wontons and deep-fried squid. A variety of soups, seafood, duck, chicken, lamb, and beef dishes consummate dinner with divine flavours. To test the chefs’ skills a little more, try the deep-fried ice cream or toffee bananas for dessert.

Lobster promotion November heralds a delicious promotion at Soie. Famed for its dish ‘lobster cooked two ways’, the menu for the month includes such delights as spicy Szechwan lobster served with garlic fried rice and Beijing lobster served on a bed of assorted greens accompanied with steamed rice, both at BD15.500.

The Cantonese-style grilled rock lobster infused with in the chef’s secret exotic spice mix is served with fried rice at BD18.500. The food fest covers many more dishes using the luscious crustacean and is an enhancement of the already superb menu.

Over a pint An Nada Lounge, located on the lower mezzanine, exudes a warm, comfortable ambience and is the perfect place to enjoy a drink. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pool and live entertainment on most nights, this venue is open from 1pm-1am.

Among its offerings is pan-fried chicken steak with pink pepper sauce, batter-fried onion rings and tossed mixed greens, priced at BD4.500.

Douse a grilled Angus rib-eye steak in mushroom sauce and balance your meal with garden-fresh vegetables and gratin potatoes at BD9.900. Who could resist perfect steaks at such unbelievable prices?

E Call 17 533-533.

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diningf&bhappenings CUCINA ITALIANA

Loosen Your Belt There’s an old saying that good cooking begins in the market, and never has this been truer than with authentic Italian cuisine, which relies heavily on fresh produce.

Those who have travelled to Italy will know that the essence of their cuisine lies in the finest, freshest ingredients, and the slow, simple preparation styles combined with contemporary methods which extract the flavour and culture of its heritage.

Cucina Italiana, at the Al Safir Hotel in Juffair, is home to such quality fare, served in an atmosphere which transcends time and transports you to the villas of Tuscany. Highlighting the rustic traditions is what has made this restaurant such a favourite among a throng of Italian eateries. November 9 sees the launch of the new brunch, which emulates the vision of family dining, native to the region. Buffets of freshly baked, time-honoured dishes in terracotta earthenware are filled with slow-cooked stews and other popular recipes of old Italy. Gnocchi, minestrone, eggplant parmigiana, frittata, bruschetta and creamy dory alla livornese are a few of many specialties which will be served here every Friday.

Christophe Marziale, board director of Bahrain Family Leisure Company which operates Cucina Italiana, states, “Our brunch boasts food of our mothers, not fancy but traditional, down home, good cooking which showcases the finest meats and cold cuts, imported cheeses and classical recipes of our Italian chefs.”

Costing BD16 including a welcome drink, the brunch also comes in a BD25 option which includes a bottle of Chianti per couple.

Cucina Italiana welcomes the arrival of winter with a new menu on December 1, featuring a wider variety of home-made pastas and traditional Italian fare such as polentas, stews and heartwarming main courses, all available for lunch, dinner, take-out and delivery. E Call 17 001-317.

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Breakfast to Dinner

You can now satisfy your hankering for the perfect breakfast, indulge in cuisine focusing on the use of fresh produce and pre-order a Christmas turkey all under one roof.

Christophe Marziale

Breakfast is the essential meal of the day and there is no better way to enjoy it than by treating yourself to a wide variety of delicacies prepared by the chefs at Ramada Hotel Bahrain in Adliya. A visit to Le Jardin restaurant will have you sticking a fork into your favourite style of eggs after a sip of freshlybrewed coffee or orange juice squeezed not moments ago. You can’t help yourself from nibbling their home-baked goods either.

Autumn fair Until November 15, the dining venues, Le Jardin Restaurant and The Exchange Restaurant and Pub, highlight their special autumn menu. Being the time of harvest, the bounty of the land is the central focus of the gastronomic celebration. With one of the most experienced culinary teams in the business, the fourstar hotel celebrates the beauty, colour and distinct tastes of the season.

Well in advance Ramada Hotel Bahrain is renowned especially at this time of the year for its Turkey Express delivery service where delicious, traditionally prepared turkey with all the trimmings and stuffing can be brought to your doorstep. Available from November 17 until December 31, booking your bird at least 48 hours in advance is essential to avoid disappointment.

End the year and stay close to your near and dear with the ideal turkey dinner delivered with first-class service and quality.

E Call 17 742-000.

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THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Let the Celebrations Begin!

From gingerbread houses and the Christmas tree lighting to a grand ball and a simple brunch, a five-star venue has you covered for the finest in food and entertainment.

December the 6th kicks off a full month of festivities at The Diplomat Radisson Hotel, Residence & Spa. A day of laughter, joy, fun and games starts with a family gingerbread housemaking competition where for BD8 you will have all the parts, decorations and sweets needed. Just bring your imagination.

Pre-empting the lighting of the Christmas tree with over 5,000 lights at 7pm, the gingerbread house competition runs from 4pm and the winner will receive two tickets to the New Year’s Eve ‘Fire and Ice’ ball.

Wear your Friday best The festive brunch begins on December 7 at Al Fanar, offering spectacular views while enjoying the best in traditional fare.

Celebratory brunches are served every Friday leading up to the grand buffet on December 25, which begins at noon and is priced at BD27.

Dress up as your favourite Christmas character (reindeer, elf or the big guy himself) every Friday in December to be in to win two tickets to the Christmas Day brunch, where the best dressed will receive two passes to the ‘Fire and Ice’ New Year’s Eve ball.

Noel, noel Christmas Eve dinner at Mondo’s restaurant starts at 7.30pm.

Priced at BD25, it consists of a resplendent four-course meal including cured salmon, chestnut and sour cream soup, turkey or sea bass, dessert, a cheese platter, coffee and cookies.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

On Christmas Day, the kitchens offer one of the most amazing buffets from 12.30-4pm. Promising to be an enjoyable day out for the whole family, the price includes access for the little ones to a special kids’ corner with balloons, a bouncing castle and face painting. That should keep the children entertained while parents fill up on the enormous buffet. The hotel guarantees great value for the BD24 that you will spend. Children between the ages of six and 12 are charged half the price, while those under six can dine for free.

Time to party With only a week to recuperate from all the festivities, December 31 brings with it the New Year’s Eve ‘Fire and Ice’ ball. Starting at BD65 per person or BD55 if it is booked and paid for by December 6, this is one of the best ‘value for money’ tickets in town.

Australian band Shine provides the entertainment for the night from 8.30pm. No prizes for guessing that fire and ice are the main attractions through the evening, promising to be spectacular fun for all.

Start the year without a care in the world and allow the kitchen brigade of The Diplomat Radisson Hotel to pamper you with their New Year’s Day best. Indulge in the ‘hangover’ brunch from 12.30-4pm.

E Call 17 531-666.

November 2012 135

diningf&bhappenings VAPIANO

Ten Years and Running An Italian ‘lifestyle’ restaurant that opened in May might be just months old on our shores, but it recently celebrated its tenth anniversary worldwide.

The best stories often begin with a simple idea. Ten years ago, Vapiano Hohe Bleichen opened its first store in Hamburg, Germany. What began back then wrote the first chapter of a continuing success story. The chain has now expanded to four continents, 26 countries and over 100 restaurants, inspiring thousands of guests with its Italian zest for life.

In May, Bahrain got its first taste of this new concept; an innovative restaurant serving made-to-order stone-roasted pizzas, fresh house-made pasta and hand-tossed gourmet salads in front of your eyes. Located in Bahrain City Centre, the restaurant puts a new spin on the dining experience with its ‘chip card’ which guests use to personally order their food and drinks.

The “One Global Party” held in October to celebrate 10 years of freshness saw birthday bashes at its outlets all over the globe. Glasses were raised within its distinctive relaxed atmosphere surrounded by the fresh Italian-inspired cuisine, not just to toast 10 successful years, but to look forward to 10 more.

New menu November offers something new at the unique eatery with the launch of a Specials menu, featuring all-new pastas, pizzas and salads to please our palates.

As they say, Vapiano is not a restaurant, nor is it an Italian bistro and it certainly isn’t a fast food café. Vapiano is a lifestyle — one that we can all afford to enjoy.

E Call 17 491-391.

LANTERNS

A Culinary Adventure Known for 27 years for its Budaiya location, a restaurant is set to spread its wings, opening the brand’s second venue in Adliya’s 338 food district.

Lalit Kapur, managing director of the Lanterns Group, believes in burning the candle at both ends; lucky for him, considering the challenging deadlines he sets for himself. By month’s end though, this visionary will launch the second Lanterns Restaurant, this time in Adliya.

With the finest Indian cuisine in the land, at 800 square metres the new location will be one of the largest dining venues. Containers of traditional Indian artefacts have been selected and shipped into Bahrain to add the little touches that makes the original Lanterns so endearing.

What to expect “Guests will enjoy the same vibrant interiors, with a dedicated glass-surrounded smoking lounge, a main restaurant with enhanced seating capacity, a garden patio and a rooftop sky bar,” Lalit says of his second Lanterns restaurant.

“Showcasing the modern fusion of Indian cuisine and the universal flavours of other lands, our aim is not to change the identity of the food but to present it in a contemporary format with, for instance, tapas-style options,” he adds.

While the success of any restaurant is amazing food, this venue has all of the five keys required: quality food, an enticing ambience, pricing that is correctly pitched, attentive service and well-trained staff.

Add to this one of the newest, swankiest dining venues in the heart of the 338 district and it is hard not to appreciate Lalit for his undying passion for the industry. It is time to build an appetite for the popular cuisine. E Call 17 590-591.

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BUSHIDO

Winning Them All It is often said that good things come in threes. To confirm this theory, look no further than a restaurant which recently had a winning spree at the 2012 Caterer Middle East Awards.

Weathering the same storms as us all, Bushido never faltered over the past 18 months. Instead of accepting its fate, this Japanese restaurant in Seef has fought hard and long to win our affection and to prove its exemplary standing among warriors of its own code. More than just a meeting place or fashionable dining venue, it has truly become part of the country’s landscape and is a formidable player in Bahrain’s hospitality industry.

Staying ahead While the Middle East does not yet have Michelin Star rating for dining outlets, it does have the Caterer Middle East Awards. Held annually in Dubai, they highlight the top performers within the hospitality industry in the entire region.

Bushido was already honoured to have been short-listed in three categories. However, the management was elated when it was awarded the “highly commended” (runner-up) status for stand-alone restaurant of the year. Executive chef, Chong Yoong Kiong, was also rewarded with the same title in the category of the best chef for a stand-alone restaurant. Adding to the laurels, Ketut Budiana (Budi) was short-listed as one of the top five best lounge managers in the Middle East.

“When Bushido’s name was announced, our first thoughts went to the team and then to the country. We are proud that Bahrain has such talent and potential. It was a great honour for us to represent the Kingdom,” stated Nicolas Budzynski, general manager of Bushido.

For an outlet to be chosen among all food and dining venues

www.bahrainthismonth.com

within the Middle East is one thing, but for a Bahrain-born concept to have been nominated in three categories truly is a triumph of which the nation can be proud.

A spellbinding night The one-of-a-kind venue is proud to present an extraordinary night for extraordinary people, with its chic setting transforming into a circus for one evening on November 15.

Cirque du Soir originated in London in 2009 and has performed around the globe in numerous trendy locations.

It features everything from fire eaters, aerial acts, burlesque freak shows and tattooed dancers to magicians, drummers, jugglers, acrobats and stilt walkers. Let’s not forget the DJs who play terrific music all through the night. Dress up, pick up your drinks, relax and enjoy an incredible night of magic, music and unprecedented entertainment.

Make merry The newly launched Friday brunch offers a mix of Japanese and continental dishes with an a la carte menu and no less than 10 live stations. Available from noon, it is priced at BD19, inclusive of water and soft drinks. The alcoholic option comes at BD25 with a selection of wine, beers, spirits and cocktails. This November they introduce a little something extra to the brunch offerings. You can now add champagne to your drinks package for BD45 and celebrate with bubbles.

E Call 17 583-555.

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

17 813-750 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 178-464 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070

Asian Chin Li Chop-Chop Tea House Curry Country Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Meisei Memories Mo Kan Monsoon Nu Asia Panasia

17 717-717 17 178-701 17 537-555 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 007-770 17 178-646 17 360-000 17 749-222 17 587-171 17 721-600

Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café World Beat Café

13 667-777 17 363-999 17 612-576

European Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu L’Avenue Mezzaluna Paul Café Sizzlers Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 567-222 17 742-999 17 172-321 17 716-999 17 298-471

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

17 231-996 17 514-400 17 532-250 17 231-106 17 224-357 17 295-540 17 232-382 17 291-655 17 237-768 17 277-665

Fusion Fusions L’Ile

17 746-427 17 845-000

Nando’s Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Zoe

17 825-339 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722 17 713-093 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

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

International (4 Star Hotel) Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Palm Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Savoy Café Temptations (EGH) Temptations (ESH) Tiffany’s

Papaya Peppers Rice Bowl Thai Chi Tian Wok Yum Chow!

17 697-105 17 717-808 17 179-600 17 179-747 17 717-080 17 636-415 17 744-900

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

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

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

Café Restaurants Café T Camille’s Sidewalk Café Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café

17 750-777 17 339-508 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538

Indian Aachi’s Chettinad Kitchen Akbar Asha’s Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi Lanterns Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Spices The Yellow Chilli

17 233-110 17 296-660 17 179-751 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 720-031 17 727-230 17 590-591 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 531-122 17 580-480

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

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Flair Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju

17 210-012 17 212-900 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800

17 290-945 17 002-490

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

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

Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari Leewan Al Khor

17 178-090 17 311-186 16 010-666

Melh Alzad Taza

17 311-170 17 784-997

17 131-111 17 725-414 17 296-660 17 224-000 17 280-111 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 711-772 17 567-222 17 506-070 17 179-500 17 312-700 17 365-055 17 311-280 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

Middle Eastern

Totally Fish Waves

17 179-757 17 531-122

Shawarma Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Relais De Venise Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 17 567-222 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Hash House Lanna Thai Muay Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 312-006 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Anatolia Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi

17 690-601 17 292-950 17 172-322

Italian Bice Ristorante Café Italia Caffe Spasso Carino’s Italian Grill Castello Cico’s Ciro’s Pomodoro Cucina Italiana Fiamma

Gusto Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vapiano Veneto

17 533-666 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 587-878 17 697-552 17 713-710 17 534-567 17 001-317 17 636-363 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 723-818 17 491-391 17 680-967

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

138 November 2012 BTM

Arirang Da Rae Jung

17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 296-699 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 827-999 17 565-888 17 558-888 17 716-999

Iranian Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Korean

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-336 17 725-638 17 533-450 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-084 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

Pizza Domino's Little Caesars Margherita Pizza and Pasta Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pick a Pizza Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella The Pizza Company

17 826-222 17 179-400 17 723-133 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 720-929 17 742-299 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Afandi Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer La Perle Seafood Market

17 849-111 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008 17 533-336

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland Chickey’s DQ Grill & Chill Elevation Burger EZ Take out Burger Fatburger Hardee’s Herfy Jasmi’s Kentucky Fried Chicken Kudu New York Fries McDonald’s Pollo Campero Tasty Bite

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 178-084 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 221-722 17 161-716 17 714-972

Eating Out listings

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

Taste Of Fashion Ladies from the latest ‘Taste of Fashion’ event hosted jointly by Bahrain City Centre and the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre had the opportunity to spend a morning with designer Adeeba Al-Khan, who showcased a collection of glamorous Arabic jalabeyas, abayas and gowns from her Anmar Couture brand

Adeeba Al-Khan with models

Jihan, Rawia & Badoor

Maya, Ahmed & Yasmin

Mariam, Fayka, Kathoon, Safiya & Fatima

Nor, Rosita & Sukma

Jasmith

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Lubna

Dipti & Sara

Shareen

Fatima

November 2012 139

Bahrain 44 | Bahrain 55 | Bahrain sport 1 | Bahrain sport 2

EXCLUSIVE AGENT:

FOR YOUR ADVERTISING: +973 17 564 250 +973 33 555 888 Email: bahraintv@groupplus.bh

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afterdarkthismonth When? November 30 | Event? DJ Night | Venue? Coral Bay

Ministry of Sound DJ Shane Kehoe

Party with a View JAMES Claire In every desert there is an oasis; in Bahrain, we have Coral Bay — a relaxation haven where you can dance, dive, drink and dine to your heart’s content at the edge of the clear waters of the Arabian Sea. Coral Bay is the ultimate destination for relaxation, adventure, entertainment and absolute enjoyment. Listen to the rolling waves, dive into the infinite sea, indulge in the island’s best Lebanese food, dance the night away, look out over the marina, laze on the beach or just soak up the sun.

Formerly known as Coral Beach Club, this venue is a marina, a beach, a fully-equipped health club, a relaxing lounge, the home of one of the island’s most acclaimed Lebanese restaurant, Rayés, and essentially it is something special for everyone.

Party central On November 30, famed DJ Shane Kehoe takes the stage at Coral Bay to help celebrate one of the most talked-about party events of the year, the 21st anniversary of Ministry of Sound.

Irish-born and London-based DJ Shane Kehoe has been busy tearing the roof off the best clubs in the world and ripping up dance floors from all four corners of the planet. The future shows no signs of slowing down as he hits the decks at Coral Bay on this sure-to-be eventful night.

A member of Housexy and one of Ministry of Sound’s resident Also this month

DJs, Kehoe mastered his trade at a young age, winning numerous competitions and awards. He was the runner-up at Muzik magazine’s renowned Bedroom Bedlam competition and the winner of the Raw Talent DJ award in IDJ magazine.

Working constantly to establish himself as one of the best house DJs around, he has lifted his profile to be alongside the world’s finest, including Eric Morillo, Pete Tong, Mark Knight, Moby, Deep Dish and Sander Kleinenberg. To say that he is always busy is an understatement; when he is not out performing, he can be found in the studio working under various partnerships.

Start to finish, Kehoe is the all-round package from amazing technical ability by the turntable to unbelievable energy levels pumped out from the DJ booth. He not only epitomises the Ministry of Sound, but lives it too. On the night of the anniversary, this DJ is ready for a grand comeback to Bahrain at one of the most beautiful outdoor terraces to celebrate the most anticipated party of the year. Book your tickets in advance.

Middle Eastern flavours Rayés offers the finest Lebanese cuisine on the island. In addition to this, it also has the advantage of a phenomenal location, giving its guests unparalleled views of the waterfront, overlooking the Coral Bay marina with the Muharraq skyline.

Al fresco dining was introduced here recently so patrons can appreciate the sound of waves crashing. As it is, November is perfect if you choose to dine outdoors. E Call 17 312-700..

When? November 9, 16, 30; December 7 Event? Battle of the Bands Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee Int’l; Coral Bay There’s only one way to prove you’re better than the resident bands at hotels — battle it out!

E Email info@budlivebahrain.com.

When? November 6-December 18 Event? Karaoke Idol Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant & Pub Sing your heart out on stage.

After all, it is a matter of winning BD1,000.

E Call 39 329-083.

When? November 15 Event? Circus night Venue? Bushido The Japanese lounge-restaurant takes a new form on this night.

Get mesmerised.

E Call 17 583-555.

When? November 15 Event? DJ night Venue? Cocoon, The Juffair Grand Hotel DJ Swing celebrates his birthday with the lounge’s patrons. It’s your chance to dance.

E Call 17 827-600.

When? November 16 Event? Theme party Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Take a trip to the past and don your Roman best for the toga party here.

E Call 17 826-001.

142 x Happenings

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November 2012 141

afterdarkhappenings When? November 22 Event? Pool party Venue? K Hotel Make the most of the remaining bits of summer at the poolside bash at this hotel.

E Call 17 360-000.

When? November 22 Event? Theme party Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Luminous paint, glow sticks, radium watches — bring it all to the return of Lumina.

E Call 17 826-001.

Get Ready to Party

When? November 22 Event? Thanksgiving Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee Int’l Hotel It’s Thanksgiving Day and this American venue makes it count.

Bring an appetite.

E Call 17 727-230.

This month is all about showing us what you’ve got. Dust off that guitar and exercise your vocal chords because you might be holding up a trophy soon enough.

When? November 30 Event? DJ night Venue? K Hotel It’s the 21st anniversary of Ministry of Sound; you get to dance to DJ Shane Kehoe.

E Call 17 312-700.

It’s back, people. Get ready to head bang because the Battle of the Bands is on full throttle with local and hotel bands locking horns for the title of the best music group in town. Catch the qualifiers at Rocky’s Café in Ramee International Hotel on November 9 and 16. On November 30, you can find out who made it to the semis and who’ll move ahead for the finals at

All In band

Coral Bay on December 7. Ending the night is, believe it or not, Macy Gray. Have you fetched your tickets?

While groups tackle it out for the best band status, individuals throw their voice at JJ’s Irish. That’s right; the annual karaoke idol is on. Between November 6 and December 18, singers will go head to head to win BD1,000. Will you be the eighth karaoke idol?

Celebrating its 21st anniversary is Ministry of Sound which sends one of its own, DJ Shane Kehoe, to Coral Bay for a memorable night. Get your tickets as they are soon running out.

Now we know what you’ll be up to on November 30.

Namashree's Birthday Party Mayukh & Nanda Majumdar hosted a party to celebrate the 4th birthday of their daughter Namashree. The party was held at Jami's in Hoora last month Nanda, Milli & Farheen

Namashree with the joker

The Majumdars Namashree & Gini

Meenakshi & Nanda

142 November 2012

Ayana & Ammar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

One night only Meanwhile, Club Buffalo at Ramee California adds a Roman touch to its party scene. Rip out your curtains and add a brooch to your bedspread because it’s toga time here on November 16. You could also catch their thanksgiving celebrations. Neighbouring party hotspot, Bedrock, brings yet another “glow stick revolution” on November 22 with Return to Lumina.

Sticking to its extraordinary status, Bushido introduces a night of wonder with the Cirque de Soir on November 15. If they could turn the whole venue into a Ramadan tent, we’re sure they can transform the venue into a full-fledged circus.

The K Hotel in Juffair hosts a grand pool party on November 22 from 6-9pm for those who can bear the weather. Muju Restaurant & Lounge hosts a gourmet wine tasting on November 20.

Something new The Mai Tai Lounge is finally open again and we have not been more taken aback by a renovation as we have this time around. If the usage “complete transformation” needed an image to describe it, this would be it. The venue is at its best this season. That includes the food and beverage menu.

Boudoir Lounge at The Kempinski Grand Hotel is wrapped in the lovely music xxxxx played by Viviana on the sax and the keys. Straight from Columbia, the soulful artist performs on every night except Tuesday. The Bizarre Lounge at Kempinski Ixir Hotel is preparing for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

New menus Rocky’s Café at Ramee International Hotel sees a bunch of new offerings on the menu thanks to the sous chef Arun Kumar Sahu. The revamped menu includes Mexican delights and Italian specialties apart from the American favourites. The nightclub is also home to a new resident band, All In. The Canadian septet is supported by DJ Johnny Bailo at the deck. Get special promotions on food and beverages on November 22.

While we are on the topic of pub grub, why not have a go at the steak promotion at An Nada Bar. It is surprisingly easy on the pocket for a lounge in a five-star hotel. On the menu are pan-fried chicken, grilled CAB rib eye, char grilled strip loin, grilled tuna and butterfly fillet.

Party With The Blur-Oriental Band AND Linedup DJS Guy/Peekaboo and Arvin Happy Hour DAILY 9PM - 10 PM

An ideal venue for relaxed dining and social gatherings.

Savour an exotic buffet lunch or dinner @BD 4.700++ Serving a wide range of inte

‫ﻓﻨــﺪق ﭘــﺎرس اﻟﺪوﻟـ ــﻲ‬

PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Tel: 17814777 Fax: 17814778

DJ Johnny

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Email: info@parsbahrain.net Web: www.parsbahrain.net

November 2012 143

afterdarkhappenings

COCOON LOUNGE

At the Helm Managing a single nightclub is a challenge in itself; managing three certainly is! However, Madan Perattur makes it look easy.

In the hotel industry for over 15 years, Madan Perattur has come a long way since his career started in Dubai. He was offered a position with the Gama Hotel Management group in 1999 to manage Wrangler at The Juffair Grand Hotel; he has not looked back. At the time, it was a 60-people-capacity restaurant. Today, the venue has been changed and is considered one of the best nightspots in Bahrain. Madan currently manages Cocoon Lounge and Champs, also at The Juffair Grand Hotel.

BTM: Why have you chosen to specialise in the after dark scene?

MP: To be honest, it is my passion and I love what I do. Ever since I was part of the hotel industry, I found the after dark scene is where I can be creative and have lots of fun. It’s all about creating an atmosphere where people can have a great

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time. It’s challenging, as you have to stay up-to-date with the ever-changing trends. This sector keeps me on my feet and always working.

BTM: What has been your personal input into each of the venues that you handle?

MP: This is a question that needs to be answered by the thousands of guests that have come through our doors and over the years have become part of our family. I am very proud and happy that we have a huge fan base not only composed of guests but also of numerous DJs that have performed at Wrangler.

For me a long-lasting relationship with guests is the most important aspect. I try to be their friend first, before being a manager. The human touch is significant in all the venues that I handle. I always make sure that my team understands this concept and practise it in their day-to-day work.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BTM: What do you think differentiates Wrangler, Cocoon and Champs from each other?

MP: With over 14 years of success to its name, Wrangler is unquestionably “the� party place where you can lose yourself.

Cocoon on the other hand is a lounge, which is more relaxed, allowing you to have your own space. All the same, it does turn into a party hotspot any time an international DJ comes though the doors. Champs is the ultimate place for any sports fan who loves great atmosphere, food and drinks.

BTM: How do you try to keep the place packed all the time?

MP: The trick is to listen to guests and try to ensure that we deliver what they are asking for night after night. By catering to their needs, we have a full house almost all the time. People appreciate the fact that we care and go the extra mile to give them what they crave for.

BTM: How is it that you are able to handle three of the most happening venues in town single-handedly?

MP: Who said that? I have a very skilled team with me. I always believe that a captain is only as good as his team. So, all credit should go to my boys and girls who believe in me and make our venues some of the best in town.

BTM: Have you had the chance to revamp the venues in your own way?

MP: Aside from the drastic changes Wrangler has seen through the years, Cocoon has also had a facelift, which makes the venue more laid-back and in line with modern standards to suit the needs of the crowd. There are, of course, more things that need to be tweaked in order to give people an experience that will stay with them throughout their life.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BTM: What are the challenges you face in managing three venues?

MP: In my younger days, I used to be a professional boxer and that taught me how to handle many life situations efficiently.

Challenges are what make my job interesting and exciting because without them it would become monotonous, which is never any fun. I love what I do and I enjoy my time with my team at The Juffair Grand Hotel.

BTM: What events will the venues host during the month of November?

MP: November will be a hectic month at the venues. Wrangler celebrates its 14th anniversary this year. As always, we bring the famous DJ Epps of G-Unit to show the crowd a good time.

Having performed for the last three birthday bashes, he has become part of its tradition.

On November 2, for the first time we reel in one of the Top 10 female DJs directly from Ibiza to Cocoon. Watch out for Missy Jay. With her own record label, she is considered a star DJ in the underground music scene.

To add more excitement to the party life here, DJ Swing plays his R&B best every Thursday. However, November 15 marks a night of endless celebration as he celebrates his birthday.

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afterdarkhappenings

Noty Notes

PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

A Night at Pars With four packed nightlife venues night after night, it looks like the four-star hotel is host to a neverending party. We have a look at each venue.

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Let us start the tour from their popular lobby bar, Boomers.

Boasting a traditional pub atmosphere, this venue is home to great food, drinks and entertainment. The casual ambience lets guests feel at ease. The signature drinks pour out all through the night. Complementing those wild spirits are their famous bar bites. The lip-smacking snacks on offer include the three cheese nachos, chicken enchiladas and beer-fried prawns. If you’re in the mood to tear up some meat, grab a bite of the lamb chops with chimichurri sauce on the side.

Sports fanatics should know that if you’re to catch a game, it ought to be here. After all, live matches look best on those giant screens and are more fun with your friends cheering with or against you. If you’d like to divert your attention from technology and the rest of the world, fetch a pint and enjoy the show. Resident band Noty Notes promises to entertain you from 9pm-2am with a range of songs from various genres.

Ladies can enjoy a complimentary beverage on arrival every Saturday. Come Thursdays, you are in luck. Hawaiian night entitles women to free drinks until midnight. Walk in between noon and 7pm for discounts every day of the week.

Move a floor up to find Latin Quarter. The name speaks for itself. This dine-in venue can only be described as “one-of-akind”. Dedicated to all things Hispanic, this is your go-to destination when you feel like flaunting your dancing skills. It is separated into three sections: the bar, the dining area and the dance floor. Yet, when the Latin band starts performing, the music weaves them together to form a single entity.

Columbian rhythms are irresistible, so expect to hit the floor time and again. The venue, fondly called LQ, is so laid-back it isn’t unusual if someone pulls you to the floor to do the salsa.

Don’t worry if you don’t know how to dance; they don’t mind teaching you.

Latin band

If you are one to keep track of theme nights, then you are going to love the ones here. From martini madness on Mondays and couples night on Tuesdays to Mexican night on Wednesdays and Cuban nights on Fridays, there is something for everyone here.

Walk out, when you choose, and follow the thumping music; you’ll find yourself lost in the loud beats mixed by DJs Guy, Peekaboo and Arvin at Z-Club and Lounge. Known for its fair share of one-night events with DJs flown in from around the globe, this nightclub is home to the in-house Oriental band, The Blur.

Theme nights aren’t in shortage at this venue either. Be prepared to find unusual promotions during every visit, inviting you to try exciting new cocktails at unbelievable prices. The shooters here are noteworthy, too.

If you feel like the party is wrapping up too soon, head over to the Mayan Lounge. Inspired by the ancient era, walking through these doors is much like time travel. Once you’ve taken in the décor, you’ll find the next attraction to be the pool tables just waiting to resume the competition that ended downstairs at Boomers. Kill that hangover before it gets to you with a tall cuppa or end that hunger strike with the midnight buffet available here at BD5. E Call 17 814-777.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

BMMI

Wowing Bahrain Save the date! On December 7, Macy Gray promises to give you a performance unlike any before on the island.

When? December 7 | Event? Macy Gray live | Venue? Coral Bay

Macy Gray

BMMI

Revving up the Music Scene Are you wondering what to do with your weekends? Worry no more for The Bud Music Live! Battle of the Bands is back.

When? November 9, 16, 30; December 7 | Event? Battle of the Bands | Venue? Rocky’s Café; Coral Bay

Atom

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Having successfully brought us acclaimed international acts like Legends of Ska, The Wailers and De La Soul, B Music Live, in collaboration with Jump Media, is back to bring you an event like none other. Live in concert on December 7 at the island’s party destination, Coral Bay, music lovers will be treated to an evening of magic featuring Grammy and MTV award-winning R&B and soul singer-songwriter — Macy Gray.

Her captivating voice Crossing a range of genres from experimental soul to alternative rock, from retro-disco to hip-hop, and paying homage to the music of soul legends like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin, she has created a signature style that really is her own. With her unique voice and outlandish sense of style, the I Try superstar appeals to audiences of all ages in search of a fresh alternative to mainstream soul.

Set to take centre stage with her signature raspy growl, the singer promises to wow crowds with select tracks from her 2012 album, Covered, which features a collection of handpicked songs reinterpreted in her own inimitable fashion. You’ll also be dancing to many of her original timeless tunes.

Paving the way for the big night is the Battle of the Bands competition, a household name in Bahrain. Tickets are priced at BD10 per person, inclusive of a welcome drink, and are available at the door or in advance at Coral Bay, JJ’s Irish Restaurant, Virgin Mega Stores, Great Deli Café in Amwaj and Saar, and the BMMI outlet in Mina Salman.

E Follow BMMI Shops on Facebook and Twitter.

The competition is set to feature a line-up of extremely talented local and resident hotel bands boasting a repertoire of hardcore rock and roll, heavy metal, old school classics, current chart toppers and the odd original. With all this, and so much more, there’s definitely something for everyone at this musical extravaganza.

Competing bands are split into two groups, each performing at one of the qualifying rounds on November 9 and 16. A total of five bands are selected from each group to proceed to the semis held on November 30. All three gigs are hosted by Rocky’s Café at Ramee International Hotel. From the 10 hopefuls, just four bands will be bumped up to the finals taking place on December 7 at Coral Bay. Now this is where things get interesting, as a fifth “wild card” band is chosen to compete at the finals via an online poll.

Think of it as a second chance for your favourite band that may have been prematurely knocked out in the preliminary rounds.

The grand finale promises to be an action-packed evening.

Not only will the audience revel in adrenaline-pumping beats as five talented bands vie for the top spot, but the event also ends on a high note with international, Grammy Award-winning singer Macy Gray taking the stage.

Tickets for the first three nights are BD5 per person, inclusive of a welcome beverage. They are available at the door or in advance at Rocky’s Café, The Warbler at Baisan International Hotel, Club Buffalo at Ramee California, Club F1 at Metropolitan Hotel, Enigma at Windsor Tower and Dublin at Ramee Palace. E Email info@budlivebahrain.com or follow BMMI Shops on Facebook and Twitter.

November 2012 147

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE PALACE

Saturday Night Fever A venue takes pride in its number of regulars. An Irish-American pub has all it takes to keep it crowded night after night.

Saturday Nights in Dublin are the weekly jam sessions where musicians and singers are invited to join the resident band, Crash Motion, on stage.

Bring along your guitar, bass or a good set of lungs and show the crowds what you’re made of.

Countless musicians have graced the Dublin stage over the past few years and each week unearths some new, undiscovered stars. Turn up and add your name to the growing list of talents.

DJ Conny plays six nights a week, supporting the band and keeping the dance floor jumping with all the latest fillers and exclusive remixes. Come down on a Sunday and enjoy five hours of non-stop classics, with all his latest tunes getting their debut on the dance floor.

For sports fans There are some nerve-racking matches taking place throughout the month, the pick being Chelsea vs Liverpool on November 11, Manchester City vs Real Madrid on November 21 and England vs South Africa on November 24. These and all the month’s top games from the English Premier League, Champions League and international rugby are shown live and large on the big screen.

Ladies’ night takes place three times a week (Sunday, Wednesday and Friday) with unlimited beverages from the Citrus Chic menu. Order any of the perfectly cooked, succulent steaks and receive a free glass of house beverage with every order from 5pm-1am.

Details of all upcoming events and promotions can be found on the Dublin Club Bahrain Facebook site or follow @dublinclub on Twitter.

E Call 39 736-547.

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Arun Kumar Sahu

RAMEE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

In Love with Food Nine months into his role as sous chef at a four-star hotel, Arun Kumar Sahu gives us a sneak peek into his kitchen.

With 10 years of culinary expertise, Arun Kumar Sahu leads the kitchen crew in every restaurant at Ramee International Hotel, from Fareast Seafood Market to It’s Mirchi, under the guidance of executive chef Wilfred Coelho.

Having specialised in continental and fusion cuisine, Sahu is keen on improving menus and cannot front enough food festivals to improve his skill. Watch out for the Diwali Special at the hotel as he has been training his brigade for this celebration for a while now. The night sees multiple live cooking stations and sumptuous canapés.

Since his arrival, the Mexican menu has seen considerable change. Following the Halloween specials last month, he launched a unique set menu with exceptional flavours from around the globe, especially inspired by American cuisine. This is understandable considering he spent years with Princess Cruises in the USA. Give it a shot and you will fall in love with the Georgian starters, Philadelphian soups, Jamaican main course and Mexican salads. The highlight, however, is the signature dessert that he introduced to Rocky’s Café titled Rocky’s Love Dream. The heart-shaped sweet combines the divine tastes of rich chocolate mousse, strawberry compote and whipped cream.

At Ramee International Hotel every month is a celebration of different kinds of cuisines and styles of preparation.

“We focus on regional recipes. This way, people can experience a variety of flavours in every visit,” Sahu says.

“We’re happy when the guests are happy.” E Call 17 727-230.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New

A Handy Assistant

Edited by Alison Coldridge

With an 8GB memory, this gadget is perfect for recording. The Olympus Digital Note Taker has one centrally located button providing access to the functions and a clear LCD screen, PC connection and music player.

Available at Gajria Electronics.

Daring Designs

Complexion Perfection

Festina commemorates the Giro d’Italia competition with eight magnificent chronographs that are both sporty and elegant. The collection includes two styles: one with a steel bracelet and the other with a polyurethane strap. Designed to appeal to young adults, the watches can be worn anywhere, including up to 100m underwater.

Available at A La Mode.

A new foundation from Clarins could be just what you need to create an effortlessly beautiful look every morning. The ‘Skin Illusion’ loose powder transforms skin to look natural, flawless and perfect, without clogging the pores, due to the mineral and plant formula used.

Available at leading retailers

Go-Getter From Carolina’s Big Apple collection, this bright bag isn’t for the faint-hearted. Oversized, slouchy and obvious, this tote is ideal for a woman who is self-assured and stylish. Team it with some cigarette trousers and a casual blazer for a perfect day look. Available at Carolina Herrera.

Va-Va Voom Mercedes-Benz has launched its first fragrance for men and it’s just as deliciously sleek as one would expect. With main accords of citrus, spices and musky wood, the eau de toilette is lightened with a floral touch creating a sensual scent that will linger on skin for hours.

Available at leading retailers

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November 2012 149

marketplace PHOENICIA DÉCOR

Clever Little Koncepts

Create the home you want with the furniture that appeals to you. Take the time and effort to browse the options available — as there are many to choose from.

Filled with inspiring furnishing ideas, Phoenicia Décor is a haven for home owners. The range of brands housed in the company’s Seef showroom is a testament to the wealth of options available.

Koncept Furniture is one such brand; a contemporary furnishing brand that supplies all manner of home essentials and suites. Whether you are looking to do-over your bedroom, living room or dining room, or simply want to enhance your existing décor with a few statement pieces, Koncept will help you out. New products are consistently available in store, bringing with them fresh ideas and inspiration.

A sanctuary for sleep Arriving soon at Phoenicia Décor is the Evelyn bed collection.

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Beautifully crafted from white wood, this range cleverly combines vintage appeal with modern amenities to leave a finished look that’s as graceful as the set’s name.

The king-size bed is divine; featuring a firm structure system and a washboard wood-effect headrest.

Also included in the nautical-inspired collection is a spacious chest of drawers, an oval porthole mirror and a towering double wardrobe, complete with a sliding door that makes little-to-no noise.

Comprehensive storage solutions Every modern home must possess a high-tech and stylistic entertainment system. Perfect for concealing clutter, this type of item acts as both a storage unit and a display cabinet.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Koncept has a trio of styles that are new this year from the Spazio collection. Each is created with a high-gloss smooth finish and fitted with contrasting walnut-wood shelving.

You can use the units to house books, CDs and accessories in addition to supporting your music system, computer and television. Innovatively, wiring systems have been built in as a way to reduce the visibility of cables from your electronic items.

The units can be moved, enabling you to re-create the structure so that it fits to your taste and special requirements.

You can alternate the position of the right-angle desk to face whichever way you prefer and the arrangement of the shelves is interchangeable.

E Call 17 564-444.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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ASIA JEWELLERS

Elegant and Edgy The Kingdom welcomes a new designer jewellery collection; as the perfect combination of high-end fashion and glamour it won’t disappoint.

152 November 2012

If you attended Jewellery Arabia last month, you would have been privy to a new collection of jewels and watches from one of the world’s top brands — Escada.

The German fashion house partnered with Asia Jewellers to unveil a collection of stunning pieces. Masterfully created from sterling silver and gold, Escada’s collection is sleek, sassy and sultry — and named after ladies. Elegant but edgy, the line is dazzling; think Swiss-made timepieces, bangles, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings. We particularly adore the ‘Estelle’ dapper red-strap watch. It epitomises the Escada label

and boasts the brand’s iconic logo in thick gold lettering.

However, if this is not your style then there are four other timepieces to choose from. The ‘Charlene’ unleashes unique charisma in silver and black; ‘Lauren’ boasts a soft goldenwhite look; ‘Jessica’ has a square and cosmopolitan face; and ‘Megan’ is the eye-catcher draped entirely in gold.

You can additionally shop for a variety of glamorous bangles, rings crafted in a number of cuts and a variety of beautifully designed necklaces that will serve as an inspirational gift for any woman. E Call 17 587-888.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MASSIMO DUTTI

Undeniable Style Massimo Dutti is the epitome of elegance. The brand’s collection is for today's modern woman providing the luxury she deserves. This season it’s the time for contrasts and updates. Opt for a classic jacket, modernised with a contemporary twist to flaunt the feminine silhouette.

The autumn/winter collection is fashioned with texture; leather, wool, suede, rubber and cotton are manufactured into styles inspired by the catwalk trends. Oversized coats and jacketd scream ‘androgyny’, whilst a pair of quilted Wellington boots is ideal for those wishing to flaunt the equestrian theme.

Shop for revsersible outerwear, detachable collars, peplum silhousettes and houndstooth patterns to keep you draped in luxury and style all winter long. E Call 17 172-325 (BCC) or 17 583-230 (Seef Mall).

BD115

Fill your wardrobe with iconic new-season styles.

The leather jacket is back, along with a host of alternative options to suit the modern woman.

BD99

BD29

BD73

BD39

BD39

BD51

BD89

BD39 BD49

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SHOE STUDIO

Sure Footing Sort the entire family’s footwear dilemmas in one quick shop and without breaking the bank!

Shoe Studio is a one-stop destination footwear brand that offers fashionable products for all ages.

The affordable shop is a simple and effective family shopping experience. Each shop is filled with styles for men, women and kids helping, you keep everyone happy with plenty of choices.

It's easy to navigate your way to your desired choice as displays are clear and helpful.

The options are plentiful. The brand has the latest trends covered, giving you an affordable way to channel the catwalk trends at incredibly affordable prices. Browse for sandals, shoes, heels, boots and wedges in many different fabrics and colours. You will find something for every occasion including work-wear appropriate items for adults and school-friendly styles for the little ones.

The concept stocks a medley of brands including Skechers, Fellimini, Scoopy, Birkenstock, Sam & Libby, Moostie Toostie, Queueup, Lifestyle, Nine & Co, Berastogi, Jansport, Hello Kitty, Lulu Carty and Fitflop.

More than just shoes In addition to footwear, Shoe Studio provides a huge collection of fun, fashionable and eye-catching accessories, including costume jewellery, handbags and purses, as well as socks and belts.

Men can pick up a versatile carry-bag, great for filling up with essentials for business trips. The ladies can choose between slouchy totes, fun clutches and leather shoulder-bags whilst the kids can find a fun backpack that will be the ideal school companion. E Call 16 686-239 (Seef Mall).

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

ANNE KLEIN

Fashion-forward Footwear Shop for designer products that will confirm your status as a fashionista. Stock up on the latest styles that will equip your feet for every situation.

If you haven’t yet filled up your wardrobe with new-season footwear then it's about time you did.

And Anne Klein proves that it doesn’t have to be expensive.

The American fashion brand is brimming with the latest trends to suit every eventuality. Slip on a slipper, the season’s most talked-about footwear trend, which the brand serves up in a flashy leopard-print style.

Or throw on a pair of ankle boots in leather or suede, which are an absolute must for office wear. Finally, don’t forget to purchase some new sandals as we do live in a hot country, after all!

E Call 16 686-204 (BCC) or 16 686-224 (Seef Mall).

Ballerina girl Chic and comfortable; is there any better combination?! Ballet flats are what Anne Klein does best. Available in a variety of colours, materials and designs, you will be able to find a pair — or three — that you love!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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YAQUBY STORES

Great Success; Great Brands Celebrating a momentous milestone, customers are being offered one-off discounts that you won’t be able to say no to.

One of the leading electronic retail businesses in the Kingdom, Yaquby Stores, is currently celebrating 63 of successful business.

Due to this, the brand is saying ‘thank you’ to customers by having discounts of up to 63 per cent available in store.

You can shop for over 20 global brands at either Yaquby’s flagship store in Bab Al Bahrain or in Seef Mall.

Braun: inventive electronics Braun is leading the way into the future with products designed to improve the lives of consumers. True to its motto ‘designed to make a difference’, the German brand has gone from being a small engineering company to an international household name. Braun and Yaquby have a strong relationship after completing 60 successful years of doing business together.

Leica: clear vision Leica offers a renowned series of cameras, lenses and projectors in addition to a range of sport optics including high-aperture and laser rangefinder binoculars and spotting scopes. These products expand our natural vision limits, letting us see better, further and more.

Breitling: telling time A specialist of technical watches, Breitling has played a crucial role in the development of the wrist chronograph. One of the rare companies to produce its own mechanical chronograph

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movement, the family business is one of the last remaining independent Swiss watch brands.

ST Dupont Paris: for the elite This manufacturer creates lighters, collectible pens, handbags, perfumes and cigarettes to name a few. The retail giant is celebrating 140 exceptional years spent serving the great and the grand; some of their famous loyal customers were Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.

Victronox: a class of its own Victronox brought Bahrain the legendary Swiss Army Knife. In addition to pocket, household and professional knives, today the independent family company also produces and sells timepieces, travel gear and fragrances.

Jiffy: fine living As the world’s oldest and largest manufacturers of garment steamers and steamer equipment for personal and professional use, Jiffy is one of the most reliable household appliance brands. The company uses only the finest industrial components, offering a simple and easy-to-use alternative to the ironing board.

E Call 17 210-956.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Nawal B Dubey

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

A Progressive Industry Advancements in the medical field mean improved healthcare for those who need it.

Technological developments are on the rise, creating innovative equipment for smoother surgical procedures.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Healthcare as we know it will soon be outdated as new equipment is introduced into hospitals.

One such innovation is the microdebrider. “Used in endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), this premier instrument was invented for use in small-joint arthroscopic surgery,” explains Dr Nawal B Dubey, ENT surgeon at Bahrain Specialist Hospital.

“It is a cylindrical, electrically powered shaver that has a hollow blade through which suction is applied. The rotating blade is housed within a smooth outer sheath, which limits the risk of trauma,” the doctor continues. These devices were introduced for nasal surgery in 1996 and have continued to undergo improvements in design and versatility.

“The tool is preferred for ESS by many surgeons because it not only spares adjacent mucosa, but also offers improved precision, more expeditious tissue removal, and better visualisation,” explains Dr Nawal.

The ability to simultaneously suction blood away from the surgical field is advantageous. While microdebriders were originally designed to clear bleeding, until recently they could do nothing to actually stop it.

Today, however, advances have led to the added ability of the

device to control bleeding with bipolar energy while retaining the shaving and suctioning capabilities of conventional equipment.

Understanding FESS surgery Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is the mainstay in the surgical treatment of sinusitis and nasal abnormal tissue growth.

This includes bacterial, fungal and chronic sinus problems.

“Of course it is not deep-sea diving. But there is a partial analogy between FESS and deep-sea diving. Both are used to search hidden objects, use cameras, fibre-optic cables, shavers or drilling systems and navigation machines,” outlines the doctor.

The procedure requires a high precision as surgeons have to work in close vicinity of the eyes and brain. Industrial developments have solved this problem by providing navigation machines and microdebrider systems.

“This practice is a blessing to patients with nasal tissue growth particularly those with antrochoanal polyps, vasomotor rhinitis and allergic rhinitis cases,” he concludes.

E Call 17 812-000.

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VIVA BAHRAIN

Making a Positive Difference One telecommunications company is serving the Bahrain community by actively sponsoring and getting involved in various charitable and social endeavours.

In 2011, VIVA Bahrain launched its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm, VIVA Jusoor. This progamme was launched in line with the company’s mission to make a positive contribution to the local community by participating in social development.

Focusing on executing long-term projects, VIVA Jusoor endeavours to connect people and facilitate a free exchange of experiences, ideas and information.

The CSR has recently initiated a number of projects, designed to engage the company and its employees in socially impactful events.

Employee programmes An employee volunteer scheme ‘VIVA Hands’ brings staff together to contribute their personal time and professional skills to assist with local community projects. Since its inception, ‘VIVA Hands’ has reached out and made a positive contribution through various local volunteering projects.

Eighty staff members participated in ‘VIVA Donors’, a blood donation drive that took place at the company’s headquarters last month. Organised jointly with the King Hamad University Hospital, the campaign was a huge success with several blood units collected over one day.

To honour cancer survivors and raise awareness of breast

158 November 2012

cancer, VIVA Bahrain organised ‘VIVA’s Pink Day’. During this day, members of the staff wore pink clothes and an educational session was held in co-operation with the American Mission Hospital, providing relevant information to assist in early detection of the disease.

Community-focused events This month, the company will be sponsoring the Kingdom’s popular annual sporting and charity event, the Bahrain Marathon Relay 2012. VIVA will also be actively involved in the event by sponsoring two teams, one involving its staff and the other a charitable society, the Migrant Workers Protection Society.

VIVA Jusoor takes pride in supporting initiatives and programmes which promote the exchange of local cultures and experiences. In line with this, the company hosted 120 members from 24 nations of the Ship for World Youth (SWY) project for an action-packed day at the VIVA Karting Track.

The company also offered SWY delegates complimentary mobile services during their stay in Bahrain and the chance to attend the Alumni Association General Assembly.

E Call 124 or visit www.viva.com.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

RADO

Long-lasting Brilliance

As the festive season approaches, we’re on the lookout for perfect presents and glam accessories. Consider a beautifully crafted timepiece that is both durable and desirable.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Luxury timepiece brand Rado has recently added two new models to its HyperChrome collection. The two new editions have rose-gold and yellow-gold coloured elements yet also share many of the same impressive design features as the rest of the collection.

Rado is recognised globally for innovative design as well as its use of revolutionary materials to create some of the world’s most durable watches. Both new styles are crafted in stainless steel with elements in Ceramos — an innovative lightweight,

ultra-hard, scratch-resistant material that adapts to the wearer’s skin temperature.

A combination of titanium carbide and metallic alloy, Ceramos was introduced by Rado in 2010. New colours have been made possible this season by fine tuning the composition of high-tech ceramic and its metallic binder.

Furthermore, the watches are protected from wear and tear; the material is formulated to retain its tough character and high degree of scratch-resistance for years. E Call 17 254-827.

November 2012 159

marketplace FRASER SUITES

Thinking Pink Last month the Kingdom went full steam ahead on the breast cancer awareness campaign. One firm did their share in a grand way.

JUNAID FOR PERFUMES

Festive Fragrances

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Over the years golfing events have been the source of funds feeding into The Think Pink Education Fund. Fraser Suites Seef Mall donated BD500 by becoming a corporate whole sponsor for the 7th Annual Ladies’ Charity Golf Day at the Royal Golf Club.

With a total amount of over BD55,000 achieved for this fund alone, Think Pink Bahrain has been able to provide various support initiatives towards the education of healthcare professionals on the island. The event was a massive success once again, raising over BD8,000 for the Bahrain-based cancer awareness charity. Nearly 100 ladies took part in total. It was rounded off with a prize-giving ceremony and lunch in the club’s spectacular majlis.

On the donation, Olivier Briand, Fraser Suites general manager, commented, “We are proud to be part of this very worthy cause for the second year in a row. It is important to show our social responsibility and commitment through such local non-profit charities like Think Pink Bahrain. We will continue to be part of this initiative in making a positive difference to women’s health in the Kingdom.”

Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain adjoins Seef Mall with many popular shopping and entertainment destinations an easy stroll from your luxurious apartment. Whether you’re in Bahrain for business or pleasure, the deluxe hotel residence accommodation offers comfort and five-star facilities. Choose from 90 lavish studios and one-, two- or three-bedroom suites, or treat yourself to a stunning penthouse.

During your stay, you will be tempted by the sparkling outdoor swimming pool and bubbling Jacuzzi. Gaze at the sea while working out in the gymnasium, relax in the spa or pamper your hair with an appointment with their top hairstylist. E Call 17 569-333.

There is no better way to gift a loved one than with a perfume. Opt to shop at a long-standing Arabic brand that creates scents that both look and smell divine.

Junaid for Perfumes has created an exclusive line of perfumes, oud creations and bridal sets specifically for the festive season.

Elegant in its look and feel, Taariikh Oil for women reveals enchanting charisma with mild notes of rose and gardenia, a heart of flavourful vanilla and intense white musk. This fragrance is encased in a black crystalline enclosure with a gold studded flower cap.

Rayya Gold is a unique concept that incorporates a perfume gel locket and table hook hanger for your handbag. Fruity notes of mandarin and orange are combined with guava, aromatic jasmine and musk.

Wurood for women makes an impressive statement as the latest addition to the festive collection from Junaid for Perfumes. Featuring a soft aroma with highlights of an Arabian feel, Wurood opens on notes of passion fruit with a heart of musk and intense spice trailing and base notes of mild rose.

A unisex composition, Nasmat al Oud and Oud Dhahabi are intense fragrances comprising the accentuated precious Oud. Faithful to traditional Arabian roots, these creations encompass a contemporary twist.

Finally, Nasmat Al Oud culminates the essence of true Arabic heritage. The scent comprises oud chips that, when using a traditional Mubkhar (incense burner), release an aroma that fills your room with the essence of magical Arabian nights.

E Call 17 179-191.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

A Good Hair Day, Everyday

Banish bad-hair days by achieving a constant salon-professional look.

Stock up on the right appliances to create voluminous and glossy locks from the comfort of your home.

We all know that when it comes to beauty essentials, hair care products are top of the priority list. With the right equipment you can transform dull and lifeless locks into luscious tresses.

Severin is a household name when it comes to home appliances. The German company is constantly adding to its repertoire and boasts a quality-assured range of hair care gadgets.

Hairdryers From regular, sports and travel to a mini version, the Severin range of hairdryers has something for everyone. Making hair styling that much simpler, you can dry your hair to perfection in a matter of moments.

The right power and temperature settings guarantee fast and gentle hair drying whether you’re sporting a short style or long locks.

Curling tongs There is always something beautifully feminine about a woman with curls in her hair. Opt for curling tongs to create spiralling curls to highlight your hair’s natural beauty. With Severin, varied waves, single-curled strands and a full head of curls are easy to fashion.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Curling irons The star among hair styling products transforms straight hair into voluminous, beautifully glossy curls, waves, curly highlights or full-on corkscrew curls in a matter of minutes. And with a little practice, you can achieve the opposite result and smooth out frizzy hair until it is sleek and straight.

Roller sets For bouncy curls and soft waves, you can use a Severin roller set to create the latest styles in minutes. The electrically warmed rollers dry your hair really gently, so you don’t need to fret about damaging your hair. The result is naturally beautiful hair which comes with a healthy shine.

Hair clippers If you didn’t already know, the secret behind fashionable short hair styles and evenly trimmed hair sections is good quality hair clippers. These handy machines are perfect for creating amazing effects and adding structure to your hair. It is also easy to sculpt contours around the neck and ears for precision styling and high-fashion looks.

E Call 17 408-150.

November 2012 161

marketplace Euro Gallery

The Designer Touch

Euro Gallery designs and completes luxurious bathrooms and flooring solutions, including marble, granite and natural stones, at affordable prices.

By acquiring the company’s high-quality European products, your desired living space can be transformed into a stylish utopia ideal for relaxation.

The company wil provide you with fashionable materials to create the flooring and tiling that you would like. With a wide range of quality suppliers to choose from, as well as the options available in Euro Gallery’s own factory, you can select the products you like to create your dream home.

Similarly, Euro Gallery will create your ideal bathroom. Simple spaces can be converted into modern-day spas featuring a range of exclusive units, furniture and tiling.

Boast a designer-style kitchen or bathroom complete with products sourced directly from the world’s most luxurious and reputable suppliers.

A supplier you can rely on Since inception, the company has established itself as a premium supplier in the marketplace. Simple achievements, such as delivering on time, ensure that lengthy relationships are established with each customer.

Euro Gallery can cater to all projects no matter the size or the budget. Whether you are looking to build a hotel, or simply renovating the family home; the company can help you get the results you want, within your budget. No matter what you are looking for, its ever-growing network of suppliers can deliver it for you.

E Call 17 404-445.

bystanderthismonth

Verminex Party The directors of Verminex hosted the company's 33rd annual party for members of their staff and invited guests at the British Club last month

Nivedita & Dutta

Butaina & Kiki

162 November 2012

Brian Davis, Tenley Butler, Bryan Levett & David Butler

Mohan & Sanal

Sadiya & Kashif

Angelo, Franky, Framoda & Anthony

Habeeb, Francis & Andrew

Prathima & Monica

Andrew

Thia & Malen

Wendy, Gina, Bonoy & Merydith

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Bahrain 44 | Bahrain 55 | Bahrain sport 1 | Bahrain sport 2

EXCLUSIVE AGENT:

FOR YOUR ADVERTISING: +973 17 564 250 +973 33 555 888 Email: bahraintv@groupplus.bh

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listingsthismonth Social Clubs

Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing

Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups

Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society

17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

17 230-123

Crafts

Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

17 611-900 17 254-688 17 595-791 17 599-030 17 590-409

Ballet Centre Ballare School Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 300-021 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

Dance

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 Konkan Singers Club 17 243-511

Islamic Culture

Bapco Club Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

17 753-666 17 690-926 17 262-143 17 291-527 17 258-520 17 278-245 17 593-593 17 253-157 17 231-354 3 9455-207

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Awali Caledonian Society Bahrain Irish Society Bahrain Welsh Society Royal Society of St. George

3 6366-458 3 9800-511 3 9467-310 3 9726-329

Other Indian clubs

Other Societies

Business Associations

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

17 862-620 3 6992-288

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball Netball Club

Bowling

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143 3 9911-848

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

17 692-378 17 695-809

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 756-770 17 750-777

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Sailing Club Yacht Club

17 836-078 17 700-667

Music

Photography

Awali Photo Society 17 764-468 Bahrain Photography Club 17 590-551

Pottery

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

Public Speaking

17 786-969 17 599-026

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association

17 422-005 Indian Ladies Association 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

164 November 2012 BTM

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 713-080 17 242-641

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine

17 713-999 17 230-123

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

Pilates

Racket games

Snooker

Jimmy’s Snooker/Billiards 17 71 6-147

National Associations

Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Basketball Association 17 741-010 Bowling Association 17 822-077 17 252-133 Chess Federation Cycling Association 17 650-079 Language Courses Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Alliance Française 17 683-295 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Berlitz 17 827-847 Football Association 17 729-563 The British Council 17 261-555 17 720-321 Handball Association Other Associations Hockey Association 17 253-209 Baloch Club 17 292-231 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Garden Club 17 727-625 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Pakistan Association 3 9415-200 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Skal International Bahrain 17 22-4050 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 Snooker Association 17 825-301 Sports Recreation Swimming Association 17 680-867 Aerobics Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Volleyball Association 17 271-139 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Teens Kids Ez Fit SportPlex 17 692-378 Athletics World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576 Road Runners 3 6992-288

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Museums

Mind Games

American Chamber Comm. 17 580-516 Australian Association 3 9206-432 Bar Society 17 725-665 Bankers’ Society of Bahrain 17 728-003 British Business Forum 3 9651-755 Businessmen’s Association 17 229-009 French Business Club 17 748-999

Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

Literature

Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 17 813-856 Taichi & Wushu Center Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 Marina Club 3 9690-008 Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 Shotokan Karate 3 9626-211 World Beat Fitness Center 17 612-576 3 9667-624 Yong Quan Tha Chi Zen-Do Bahrain 17 611-909

Athletics/Running Ball Games

Cricket

Equestrian

Football & Rugby Golf

Karting

Marine Sports Martial Arts

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Bahrain Karate Center 17 612-576 Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center 3 6222-892 Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019

Dance

Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Cricket

Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

17 692-378 17 276-134

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football The Country Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 593-593

Football & Rugby Horse Riding

Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

Bodyline Spa Coral Beach Club La Fontaine Spa Massage Centre

17 793-932 17 312-777 17 230-123 17 264-064

Ann Beauty Center and Spa Bellacura Beauty Lounge Dessange Spa Futoon Beauty & Fitness Pineapple Spa Profile Fitness Centre Wellness Resort Zoya Beauty Centre

17 623-704 17 364-955 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Meditation Centres

Bahrain Wellness Centre Bayoga Centre Meditation Centre Physiotherapy Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

17 795-961 39 460-996 17 712-545 17 722-012 17 612-576

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa 17 845-000 Crowne Plaza Health Club 17 531-122 17 535-000 Golden Tulip Health Club 17 713-000 Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel 17 531-666 17 227-777 Regency Fitness Centre 36 270-302 RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel 17 524-570 Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton 17 580-000 The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel 17 460-000

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 17 566-566 My Gym Bahrain

QR Codes: On-The-Go Reading You can now read Bahrain This Month while you are out and about, from the comfort of your own phone — just simply download a free app which allows you direct access to the online magazine. Both iPhone, iPad2 and BlackBerry users can enjoy this simple convenience by following these simple steps;

iPhone/iPad2 users Step 1: Search for i-nigma on the Apple app store Step 2: Download i-nigma on your iPhone or Pad, free of charge Step 3: After downloading is complete, click on the i-nigma icon Step 4: Finally, simply scan the QR code to be directed to a page on the designated page on the web

Awali Riding Club 17 756-525 Dilmun Club 17 692-986 Riding School 17 690-448 Shakhoora Riding School 17 591-103 The Country Club 17 593-593

Marine & Sailing Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Al Hala Sports Club 3 9966-139 Balouch Club 17 292-231 British Club 17 728-245 Delmon Tae Kwon Do School 3 9689-659 Taichi & Wushu Centre 3 6437-931

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms

Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex Ghassans Gym

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379 17 695-911

BlackBerry users Step 1: Search for ‘QR Code Scanner Pro’ in the Blackberry app world, either online or directly from your phone Step 2: Download the app, free of charge Step 3: Click on the application and scan the code Step 4: On scanning, you will be directed to site referenced in the QR code There are two QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 11).

winwin

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

1 2 3

When is the Cherry Tree Trot to be held?

Who organises Gaelic football?

Who runs Mantech Computers?

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

concept by

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Raja Magar Second Place : Lea David Third Place : Sonny Gonzales

1.

Last month’s solutions

4

Where will Macy Gray perform?

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, where passion for fo and you may be a winner!

1. October 16-20

Osa

2. Gulf Hotel 3. Sabine Taufmann

Cheesecake with Raspberry

Delive

4. The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel

5

Who did Tamkeen sponsor?

5. Pierre Fourie 6. Nissan Altima 7. A. A. Bin Hindi Group 8. Sprint triathlon 9. Glympse

6

Which car did we test drive this month?

10 Cocoon Lounge

2.

Ad Seek 1. Chopard/Bahrain Jewellery Centre 2. Cocoon Lounge

7

Who treats diabetics?

3. Leila 4. Lenovo/Intercol

Name:

8

Where does Milvin George work?

Address:

3.

Telephone:

9

What’s our app of the month?

Email:

cpr:

10

How old is the Wrangler?

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Entry deadline is November 15. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

4.

November 2012 165

tarotscopethismonth

Scorpio

Oct 22 – Nov 21 Gossip is something your sign hates at the best of times so when you find yourself the victim of a malicious rumour that presents you in a poor light, tempers will certainly be raised. While you might not be able to pinpoint the originator of the lie, you will have a good idea of who it came from but make sure you are certain before committing to a response in any way. Something tells me there is a bigger agenda this person is working to and they may want to leave you completely exposed and vulnerable before they make their real move.

Card of the Month — The Three of Cups For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 Relations at home have not been at their best but you cannot pass the blame over completely to a partner since you have not been at your most accommodating either. It would appear that a loved one’s illness is causing you significant distress and you have discovered you don’t have the patience you thought you had for the situation. While you don’t want to bring added stress to the person concerned you should try to broach the subject with them and get the matter dealt with.

They will appreciate your honesty and it may even help them get other concerns off their chest at the same time.

Card of the Month — Judgment

Capricorn ­December 22 — January 18 Looks like romance is the key topic on your mind (or should that be heart!) this month following what can only be described as a fairly barren spell for many of you over much of 2012.

That isn’t to say you haven’t been interested in anyone; just that circumstances have not allowed things to fall adequately in your favour.

A blonde-haired person with an outgoing personality will be the subject of your attentions. Though he or she could enjoy many admirers, have the confidence to put yourself forward as interest in you already exists and you need to make your move sooner rather than later!

Card of the Month — The Queen of Cups

166 November 2012

aquarius January 20 – February 18 Just recently many of you have had to come to terms with the loss or departure of a loved one and it has proven a lot more difficult than you had originally imagined. However, each passing week has lessened the sensation a little and news from abroad will lighten the heart and bring you a better feeling about the situation.

On a more immediate matter, financial concerns could be significantly eased after assistance from a friend or colleague takes the pressure off and gives you a bit more freedom. It could signal the start of a more stable and rewarding time so try to enjoy it.

Card of the Month — The Hermit

pisces ­February 21 – March 20 Time spent in the company of young person will alter your perspective on life this month and you may be surprised by your personal reaction. Your ability to keep an open mind will allow you to see things in a very different way and this will have a knock-on effect with others close to you.

A partner’s reluctance to relax more is going to grate on you in a big way throughout November and there is every chance you could fall out because of it.

Because your nature is much more easygoing, you don’t always appreciate the stress others put themselves under so try to be a little patient too.

Card of the Month — The Page of Coins Aries March 21 – April 20 After a great deal of deliberating and a host of negotiations, a property purchase will finally be resolved this month and you’ll find yourself asking why it has taken as long as it has to complete.

They say that fate works in mysterious ways and there is no question that for many months now you might have felt like things were working against you However, there is a reason why events turn out the way they do and you’ll find out in good time that there is a good explanation and one that will make all that earlier pain worthwhile.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Coins TAURUS April 21 – May 20 Your creative juices will be working overtime this month as you move an ongoing project into its next phase with some very positive results expected throughout the course of November.

You’ve had a very difficult time over the last few months and whilst you might not feel like you are out of the worst of it yet, the reality is that things are going to be a lot smoother from here on.

You can celebrate the fact that you’ve now had the majority of your challenging times in one go so it’s all plain sailing from here!

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

Gemin ­May 21 – June 20 Do you long for better days when it comes to your relationships? I think it is fair to say that for a few of you there have been some challenging times to endure of late and it could have left you disillusioned when it comes to your future.

What you need to decide is what to alter about yourself, not just the person you are with.

Any relationship is a two-way street and for it to succeed you need to be aware of what you are contributing as well as perhaps failing to deliver. Be honest and you may yet discover a solution.

Card of the Month — Wands

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advertisersindex Cancer June 21 – July 20 Health issues weigh heavily upon your mind this month, whether they are your own or those of a loved one. For those of you who are experiencing the issues directly, it could be time to climb out of that shell and look to your loved ones for support.

Don’t be afraid to open up and allow the people who care about you to ease you through the challenges. If the problem relates to a loved one then you need to take the initiative and drive the process a little yourself.

Sometimes people don’t like to open up — you above all should be familiar with that concept — but it doesn’t mean they don’t want to.

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

leo July 23 – August 21 This month will see you driving forward with purpose as you put a visionary process into place, although it might not be as warmly received within the workplace as you might have wanted or expected. Still, change is always a good motivator and sometimes a necessary initiative so don’t be distracted by any opposition.

It’s your platform so operate as you see fit. On the friendship front you may be called upon to aid in difficult circumstances and you might have to put up with someone for a few nights because of their personal problems. See it as a time to catch up again.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Swords

Virgo August 22 – September 22 You are in the middle of a life-changing phase and November is going to welcome some fascinating opportunities as you move towards the end of the year. New friends, new opportunities and new environments will all lend themselves to a rich experience this month and you may even attract relationship interest if that’s what you are looking for.

All in all, one of the better periods in 2012 for your sign and certainly a time you won’t forget easily — nor want to. The week of the 19th could be a standout in particular.

Card of the Month — The Emperor

Libra Setember 21 – October 21 Money matters have proved challenging of late and there is every indication that this could continue for the months ahead, at least until the end of the year.

Part of the problem appears to be that you don’t seem to be learning from past mistakes and unless you can turn things around in your own personality this is always going to be the case.

Just because you have money in your pocket it doesn’t mean you have to spend it. Put something aside for a rainy day. You never know what might be waiting for you just around the corner. It’s always better to be prepared than be surprised!

Card of the Month — The Four of Coins

Fashion & Footwear

Others

Anne Klein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Bench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Mango . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Massimo Dutti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Shoe Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 The Athletes Foot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Severin) . . . . . . . 69 Al Ghalia Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 B Music Live (Macy Gray) . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bahrain Science Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Carlton Nutrition Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Cocoon Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81,113 Coral Bay (Ministry of Sound). . . . . . . . . 67 Dream Body Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 e-Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Gajria Electronics (Olympus) . . . . . . . . . 116 Hypoxi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Juffair Fitness Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Junaid for Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Pitman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Radio Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140,163 Reef Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Tamkeen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Transshipment ME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Yaquby Stores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Financial Institutions bni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Home & Furnishings Euro Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3 Pottery Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Pottery Barn Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Hotels & Luxury Apartments Fraser Suites Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . .115,143 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Ramee Baisan Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Ramee International Hotel . . . . . . . . . . 139 The Diplomat Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa . . 71

Jewellery & Watches Cartier Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Chanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC-1 Rado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sharif Group (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 45

Motoring Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 59 Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Lexus) . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Lexus) . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Kia Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13,27,37,47 National Car Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Restaurants & Cafés Block 338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Bushido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Café Delices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 Chili’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 Golestan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Hard Rock Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Johnny Rockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Legendz Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Pomodorino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Rik’s Kountry Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Soie Chinese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Yellow Chilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Telecommunications VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bill Gates

David Schwimmer

Katy Perry

FAMOUS Scorpio THIS MONTH

● 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.

November 2012 167

lastword

Triskaidekaphobia

No Go!

JAMES CLAIRE A few months back I wrote of my perplexed state over the planet reaching seven billion citizens; today I write of something much bigger and which many already fear.

160 November 2012

If you’ve ever ridden an elevator past the 14th floor you will know what I’m talking about. If you have ever tried to buy a condo in buildings that contain more than a dozen units, you know what is on my mind.

The funny thing is that when I tell you, some of you will initially think I’m a little crazy. But it’s not just me! Throughout history we have denied the existence of this subject matter, even struck it from texts.

In 2010 we all looked forward to the coming year. When 2011 did not turn out to be as desired, most of us wished that we could simply go immediately to the next. It looks like many of us are about to be in the same predicament yet again.

You see, as good as 2012 has been, it’s what follows which will have many on the edge of their seats. How do elevators, condos and the coming year converge into a singular topic. It’s the number 13.

It seems next year will be one hell of a year ahead for those suffering from triskaidekaphobia — a fear of all things numbered or labelled 13. Most people get weird if there is a Friday the 13th on the calendar; well, imagine next year when every day will end in the feared numeral.

Fear of the number actually derives from history. There are after all only 12 months in a year. Even on an airplane there is no row 13. Most buildings do not have a 13th floor and good luck trying to rent a condo with this ill-fated numeral.

So, how on earth are we going to suffer 52 weeks or 365 days of 2013?

Thirteen is the number of coils in a hangman’s noose and Apollo 13 was the only one of the series which did not get to the moon. When it comes to this number, superstition takes over reality.

The Mayans predicted that 2012 would to be the end of the world; perhaps, if 13 is as unlucky as we have been led to believe throughout history, then we may all wish that 2012 truly does end as the Mayans prophesied.

Perhaps they were trying to spare us the pain!

Would it hurt if we just ignored 2013 and like an elevator jumped from 2012 to 2014. After all, what’s one year out of two millennia?

But, if we suffer 2013 then perhaps we have to rethink everything. We must have lived through and survived the year 1913; a century later, is this finally where superstition ends?

Do we endure the next 12 months and face the undeniable truth that the number 13 does actually exist and that we cannot simply remove it from the numbering system at will, pretending it does not exist?

Perhaps in 2014 we will start to see the 13th seat in a cinema, buildings will grow an extra floor between 12 and 14 and we can all use the coming year to conquer this silly superstition forever.

I have never been one to believe in luck. In the eyes of English novelist Samuel Butler (1835-1902), “People are lucky and unlucky according to the ratio between what they get and what they have been led to expect.”

Perhaps in the next 100 years we might learn to expect less and be happier with what we get, and we will all be lucky no matter the year, the number or the superstition.

Mind you, if 2013 does turn out to be the worst year in history, fear not, we will have another century to work out the details before another one hits us. Time to look for some fourleaf clover to ward off the evil spirits and bring good luck, I say!

Then again, looking at the desert sand outside you may have about as much luck finding a four-leaf clover as you do obtaining a rabbit’s foot. Maybe luck just really isn’t on the cards.

Oh well, good luck anyway!

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