Bahrain This Month - November 2011

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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November 2011 ~ Vol. 15 ~ Issue 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Heart of the Matter Capital Governorate

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French Week Jewellery Arabia Vendetta @ Bushido

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

Issue 171

Contents November 2011 Cover Story:

148 Vendetta @ Bushido Internationally-acclaimed DJ and producer David Vendetta returns to Bahrain this month for another showcase of his

148

unique and inspiring arts behind the turntable.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of November 2011:

80

23

23 French Week: : Cultural and cuisine abound 32 Jewellery Arabia: Glitz returns to the Kingdom 50 A New Endeavour: A new arts academy is formed 54 Double Laughs: Interpretations of culture 56 Little Picassos: Basil Fawlty gets an outing 58 Kingdom of Waves: Action on the high seas 23-58 Calendar: Events during November

Spotlight:

80: Back on the Horse Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa reflects on his recent past in his album, Jackie Oh No, and his love of horse riding and all

86

28

things musical.

82: More than Just a Craft A distinctive style and a passion for detail are the foundations upon which Ghazala Nasir Awan has established her clay flower-making business on Amwaj Islands.

Business:

88

171 Bystander At BTM we were entertained by a cultural presentation during the Indonesian national day celebrations and commemorated German unity. We also took in the official opening of the De Beers store, in Moda Mall, and the reopening of Roche Bobois. There was plenty of action during the events, at the likes of Oktoberfest, a Lady Gaga tribute act and anniversaries at Bedrock and Buffalo.

86: A Cleaner Tomorrow Taking environmental matters into his own hands, Ahmed Bayumi aims to deliver a better future for businesses, and to save on resources as well.

88: Committed to Excellence With the building work surrounding the Diplomat Radisson Blu nearing completion, Panos Panagis, the new general manager, is enthused about the future.

BTM November 2011 5

Issue 171

Contents November 2011 Feature:

Capital Governorate

69

65 Ali Abdul Hussain Al Asfoor tells us about his governorate 66 Yateem Centre: A taste of culture 68 What to see and do in the Capital region

Downtime:

109

122

101 Barely there: Stars in search of some clothing 102 Gadgets: An electric world 105 Young Achiever: Ahmed Al Nasheet 106 Music: Glorious fast life 109 Computer Games: Warfare calling 111 DVDs: Beautiful screams 112 Websites: Failing to laugh 113 Movies: Reborn steel 114 Sat TV: Gearing up for benefits

Motoring: 121 Enjoy It: Toyota Fortuner 122 Test Drive: Porsche Cayman R 127 Showcase: Mercedes-Benz GL450

Dining: 129 Johnny Rockets: Ultimate burgers 130 Happenings: Where to dine this month 131 Showcase: Casual dining and cakes at Flair 132 Far Eastern Cuisine: Flavours galore!

129

177

After Dark: 145 Beach Party: Café del Mar 146 Happenings: Tributes, parties and more 153 Showcase: Bands @ JJ’s Irish Restaurant

Showcase: 50

159 Medical services: Ensuring your health 167 What’s New: Second time keeper 168 Marketplace: Latest products and services

54

happeningskidsteens When? December 2 | Event? Drawing competition | Venue? Al A’ali Mall

When? December 2 Event? Little Picassos Venue? Al A’ali Mall Your little ones can express their creativity in this drawing competition.

E Call 37 770-368.

When? November 11 Event? Walkathon Venue? Bahrain Sailing Club Kids can have a go at this mini triathlon to raise money for charity.

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

56

58

Drawing Out Bahrain Wafa Ebrahim abdulla This month kids can unleash their inner artist by participating in the little Picassos drawing competition and depicting their impression of bahrain.

Encourage the kids to take up a hobby that allows them to express their thoughts with colours by joining the contest at Al A’ali Shopping Complex this month. Did you know that Picasso himself was trained by his father at the young age of seven to draw? This year your child could discover his or her artistic brilliance with this successful annual competition.

‘I love Bahrain’ is the theme this time around, which was put together to promote important issues of acceptance and peace — in light of the recent events that took place here in the Kingdom.

“The event aims to educate children on the importance of a

Al Oraifi, Khalid Al Muharraqi, and Jaffar Al Oraibi will serve as the judges and pick the winner. “They will be looking for the drawing that conveys the theme in the best way possible and displays the utmost creativity among the participants. Criteria such as originality, creativity, theme interpretation and artistic quality are considered,” adds Mahin.

All of the artworks will be showcased to the public at the mall in an art exhibition running throughout the competition, and the winners from each category will be selected on the last day of the competition. The winners will each receive a prize — in previous years the competitions’ prizes have included TVs, DVD players, airline and theme park tickets — and this year Mahin emphasises that they have more exciting rewards in stores for the little ones.

Other entertainment will also take place during the week including face and henna painting, educational games, balloon twisters and clowns.

When? November 11 Event? Kiddie competition Venue? Bahrain Yacht Club Sand castle, painting and swimming competitions will be open for to all kids.

E Call 17 700-677 or www.thebahrainyachtclub.com.

189 190 191 192

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When? November 11, 18, 25 Event? Kids Grand Prix Venue? Riffa Views This running race is a great way for kids to get fit and healthy.

E Call 36 876-876.

When? November 18 Event? Bahrain Unity Taekwondo Venue? Um Al Hassam Sports Hall A great sport for kids to take part in whilst they learn some fighting moves.

E Call 17 466-171.

When? November 19 Event? Junior Elite competition Venue? The Royal Golf Club Young members and non-members get to play on the three Wee Monty courses.

E Call 17 750-777 or www.theroyalgolfclub.com.

BTM November 2011 7

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The team

Bahrain This Month November 2011

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editor Alison Coldridge Staff Writers Elma Bartholomew, Wafa Ebrahim Abdulla, Maryam Toorani Contributors James Claire (dining), Robyn van der Merwe (design)

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

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 Circulation 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

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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

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Cover

Cover Picture: DJ David Vendetta is due to perform at Bushido on November 17.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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

HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY

Dear Readers, As the temperatures have cooled in recent weeks, unveiling one of the best times of the year, our happenings pages this month suggest life in the Kingdom is beginning to heat up!

Our cover features David Vendetta, who is due to bring his brand of house music to our shores and is expected to result in a sell-out crowd at Bushido, where he will be performing. The after dark pages are packed out, as well, with the full spectrum of events that we would normally associate with this time of the year.

Two national groups set out their stalls during November. The delayed French Week brings with it an impressive line-up of activities, from culture to cuisine. Later in the month everything will be ‘green’ as the Irish show us how to party with their annual programme of festivities.

This month we have interviews with Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa his latest album and talk to Ghazala Nasir Awan about her newly-opened clay shop and craft studio. We also talk to Ahmed Bayumi, who envisions a greener future, and the new general manager at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Panos Panagis.

There’s the fifth and final instalment of our review of the five governorates as we focus on the Captial region, and we take the Porsche Cayman R for a spin around the island. Life on Amwaj Islands is increasingly gathering momentum; we talk to the manager of Johnny Rockets on the opening of their new outlet at The Lagoon.

In the downtime section we interview Ahmed Al Nasheet. This entertaining Bahraini has converted a hobby into an embryonic business in the form of a video channel on YouTube, offering advice on the latest computer games. We could, of course, not resist the opportunity to compare two new games for Bahrain This Month.

In this issue you will also find a review of Far Eastern cuisine and a consumer report on medical services available in the Kingdom. Moda Mall gets a boost with the official opening of the Chopard and De Beers boutiques, and we feature visiting dignitaries from both these jewellery and watch brands as we gear up for Jewellery Arabia.

So, whatever you do this month, spend some time outside and enjoy the great way of life the Kingdom has to offer.

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November 2011 ~ Vol. 15 ~ Issue 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Heart of the Matter

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

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BTM November 2011 9

bystanderthismonth

MEOS 2011 Opening Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, the largest-ever Middle East Oil Show and Conference (MEOS 2011) opened at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre last month. MEOS 2011 also incorporated the second edition of the Middle East Prospect Exhibition (MEPEX 2011).

Held under the patronage of HE Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Energy Minister and developed by a committee steered by Bapco, the objective of MEPEX 2011 was to provide a focused marketplace for the buying, selling and trading of oil and gas prospects and producing properties

HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa cuts the ribbon watched by Ministers & VIPs

Abdallah, Nadia, Mohammed & Alia

Terry, Samir & Kerry

Reem, Jenan, Ola & Amal

Kamal, Daniel & Tamir

Mohammed, Riyaz, Khalid, Jadhav, Ramesh & Cajetan

Abdul Wahab, Gilbert & Said

Ahmed & Nayana

10 November 2011 BTM

Ramesh, Sunil & Jadhav

Heather & Ahmed

Ali Al Jarwan & HE Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza

Osama & Jalali

Anwar Khalaf & Dr Mustafa Al Sayed

Khaled & Zara

Deirdre & Mary

Scott & Hany

Ameen

Sara

Anthony

bystanderthismonth

German Unity Day Celebrations HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador and her husband Gernot Taufmann, hosted a reception to celebrate Germany's Unity Day. The reception was attended by HE Abdulla Abdullatif, Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary of Foreign Affairs, diplomats and VIP guests. The event was held at HE’s official residence in Saar last month HE Abdulla Abdullatif & HE Sabine Taufmann & diplomats at the cake cutting

HE Sabine & Gernot Taufmann with Semmler & Marlies

Depak, Ludger, Neo & Savier

Poonam, Kishore, HE Sabine Taufmann & Waleed

James & Hans with Mr & Mrs Heinz

Sukma, Dr Jihan, Rosita, Lana, Rihab & Khadeeja

12 November 2011 BTM

Jano & HE Sabine Taufmann

Khalid & Alexandra

HE Abdulla Abdullatif & HE Sabine Taufmann

Dr Iris & family with Hans Radek

Angelina & Shams

Claire & Herratli

Pascal, Michel & Middendorf

Kai & Siggi

Yensi, Isabella & Christian

Khalifa Rumaihi

Jamilah & Elise

Zehra & Ahmed

Faten & Reem

Ahmed & Yu Joonha

bystanderthismonth

Indonesian Independence Day Celebrations The Indonesian Embassy in Bahrain & Agus Salim, Charge d'Affaires, hosted a reception to celebrate the 66th anniversary of Indonesia's Independence last month. The event held at the Gulf Hotel's Al Dana Hall, Gulf Covention Centre was attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps, dignitaries, embassy staff and members of the Indonesian community

Sukma & Agus Salim

Rifqi, Mohammed, Nadia & Rina

Cutting the celebratory cake watched by diplomats

Indonesian Embassy staff members

Sara & Lody

Tosin, Ala & Adriana

Sahlani, Jainudin & Yahya

Joyce & Ratna

Christophe & Karim

Wendy & Anna

Rashida & Mona

Ita & Rian

David & Bless

Helmi & Zulkifli

Dr Ugi & Ayob

Endango & Maulina

Queen & Fatima

Dr Beulah & David

Zaitoon, Rasiah & Amna

14 November 2011 BTM

Dr Yousif

Nejib

Banu

STYLED BY MODA MALL

bystanderthismonth

Indian Ambassador's Diwali Party HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Mala Kumar hosted a Diwali party to celebrate the Indian Festival of Lights. The party attended by HE Dr Fatima Al Balooshi, Human Rights and Social Development Minister and Acting Health Minister, a number of diplomats, dignitaries and VIPs, was held at HE's official residence in Saar last month

Indranil, Sundaraman & Lakshmanan

Shantharam & Ashalatha

Shanthini

HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador & Zara Jauhar with Mala & HE Mohan Kumar

Milena & HE Enrico Padula, Italian Ambassador

Thanuja, Sunita, Nalini, Ashalatha, Nivedita, Meera & Kausar

Poonam, Anoop, Baboo, Samir & Kishore

18 November 2011 BTM

Dr Dhafer & Dr Jihan Al Umran with Mala & HE Mohan Kumar

Ravi Murthy, Mohammed Malim, HE Mohan Kumar & Ravi

Snehal & Manoj Bhatia with Ajay Kumar

HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Bangladeshi Ambassador & Nasreen Akbar

Shubha, George, Anne, Yajur & Raj

Megha

Tom, HE Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar & Stephanie Williams

Farida Al Gosaibi & Mala Kumar

Anisa & Mohammed Dadabhai with Mala & HE Mohan Kumar

Tarun & Simi

HE Dr Fatima Al Balooshi

Alessandra & Megha

Fatima Kooheji

Abdulla Juma

Juzer

FASHION & ACCESSORIES • Al Dana Cloaks • Al Othman • Agent Provocateur • Bottega Veneta • Burberry • Burlesque • Ce Soir • Class • De Lis • Dior • Dolce & Gabbana • Emporio Armani • Fawzia Al Nafea • Fendi • Gucci • Hermes • J Boutique • Kenzo • Lanvin • Louis Vuitton • Marc Jacobs • Marina Rinaldi • Max Mara • Muse • Nashil • Roberto Cavalli • Ruzan • Sergio Rossi • Sufana • Tod's • Tulle • Valentino • Versace • Vogue • Anya Hindmarch (opening soon) MEN FASHION • Almaz • Atraba Fashion • Cash Boutique • Ermenegildo Zegna • Pal Zileri • Tamima • Via Veneto CHILDREN FASHION • Baby Fair • Courcelles • French Collection • Jeunesse Parisienne • Moda Bimbi FINE JEWELRY • Asia Jewellers • Audemars Piguet • Bahrain Jewellery Centre • Blancpain • Breitling • Cartier • Chanel Fine Jewelry • Chopard • De Beers • Dior • Christophi Jewellery • Omega • Piaget • Rolex • Tiffany & Co. • Van Cleef & Arpels • Patek Phillipe (opening soon) JEWELRY • Al Fardan Jewellery • Al Mahmood Pearls • Al Majid Jewellery • Al Mannai Jewelers • Al Mudaifa Jewellers • Al Zain Jewelers • Ahmed Alwazzan Jewellery • Jewel House • Joyau Jewelers • Sharif • Taqi Jewelers LIFESTYLE • Al Wazzan Optician • Charriol • Dunhill • Heels • Mont Blanc • Pairs • S.T. Dupont • Vertu • Yateem Opticians BEAUTY • Al Hawaj • Atyab Perfumes • Reehat Al Atoor • Syed Junaid FOOD & BEVERAGE • Abd El Wahab • Costa Coffee • Lina's • Maki • Patisserie Valerie • Vivel Café • Bice (opening soon) HOME ACCESSORIES • Ali Al Ghareeb • Al Oraifi Gallery • Atyab Gifts • Avant Garde • Bangs & Olufsen • Bradran • Collectible • Crystal Palace • Jolie Maison SERVICES • Budget Rent A Car • Etihad Airways • Heads Up Salon • Joz Salon • Kuwait Finance House • Martinizing • Menatelecom • Travelers

Bahrain World Trade Center, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain www.modabwtc.com • Telephone: +973 1753 5140 facebook.com/modamall Twitter.com/MODA_Mall

happeningsthismonth When? November 16-22 | Event? French Week 2011 | Venue? Various across the Kingdom

A French Affair ALISON COLDRIDGE

Say ‘bonjour Française’ as French Week 2011 arrives with a series of dynamic events taking place throughout the Kingdom this month. From food to film, experience all France has to offer.

This month France is coming to Bahrain in an explosion of events that everybody can relish. The wide variety of events occurring include sport tournaments, gastronomy, live music and dance performances, opera, art and photography exhibitions, a film festival, fashion show and even magic shows. A large majority of the happenings are free of charge as French Week 2011 aims to give a limitless flavour of France to the people of Bahrain.

A combination of business and social events have been organised by a specific committee constructed for the week.

“French Week 2011 both promotes Bahrain in France and France in Bahrain. Those who have not visited the European country will be able to taste the cuisine, revel in the arts and learn about the culture,” says president Betsy B. Mathieson speaks of the aims of the week.

The committee’s intention is to reinforce the relationship between France and Bahrain, which is something indicated by the number of French people which Gulf Air, one of the sponsors, are flying to the Kingdom.

Also this month

World days There are plenty of reasons this month to get involved and lend your support…

When? November 9 Event? National young readers’ day Help your little ones find a book they will love to read.

When? November 13 Event? Kindness day Everybody deserves kindness from you, so make a gesture to show you care.

The public can attend as many events as they wish, and choose from enjoying a unique evening watching the Bel Canto Gourmet Opera, seeing the French folk dancers of La Bourree, listening to fantastic Swing and Jazz bands or view Edith Piaf’s artful biopic La Vie En Rose.

“Economic, cultural and educational ties will be strengthened during the week, as companies, galleries and schools get involved.” Betsy continues. Workshops with students learning French will be running, inclusive of a special show in which 600 students have been invited. This will give the students a real and different way of learning the language, with an emphasis on how fun it can be.

Two prominent supermarkets in the Kingdom are getting involved, Carrefour and Al Jazira. Both stores will be providing an abundance of offers, promotions and displays of typical French fare to enjoy. You can also enter raffles all week long with the chance of winning a French classic — a Peugeot 308CC car. E Visit www.frenchweek.net.

50 x Arts & Culture - 54 x Clubs & Societies - 56 x Teens & Kids - 58 x Sports & Recreation

When? November 14 Event? Diabetes day Use this day to understand how this common illness occurs and can be helped.

When? November 16 Event? Tolerance day Make an extra effort to be patient with those around you — even the most irritable!

When? November 20 Event? Universal children’s day Consider the lonely, hungry and abused children in the world and how you can help.

When? November 21 Event? World television day Life is unimaginable without TV so today indulge in your favourite shows in celebration.

When? November 25 Event? Elimination of violence against women day If there is a woman you know who needs help, today is the day to be there.

BTM November 2011 23

happeningsthismonth

When? November 16-18 Event? La Bouree dance performance Venue? Regency Hotel (Nov 16) and BCC (November 17-18) When? November 16-22 Event? Supermarket promotions Venue? Carrefour and Al Jazira supermarkets When? November 16-22 Event? Film festival Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Centre When? November 16-22 Event? Georges Brassens exhibition Venue? Bahrain City Centre When? November 16-22 Event? Paris’ Corianne Gallery art exhibition Venue? TBA When? November 17 Event? Japanese-French fusion dinner dinner Venue? Bushido When? November 17-22 Event? Marion Cougnon art exhibition Venue? Albareh Gallery When? November 17-19 Event? Swing de Luxe jazz concert Venue? Regency Hotel (Nov 19) and BCC (Nov 17,18) When? November 18 Event? Tour de France wine-tasting dinner Venue? Capital Club When? November 18-19 Event? Petanque (boules) tournament Venue? Golden Tulip Hotel When? November 19 Event? Gourmet golf Venue? Royal Golf Club When? November 19-22 Event? Didier Audebert photo and film exhibition Venue? TBA When? November 19-20 Event? Fashion show Venue? Bahrain City Centre When? November 20 Event? Trio Belleville, guitar foursome Venue? Golden Tulip Hotel When? November 20 Event? French dinner Venue? Golden Tulip When? November 20-21 Event? Rosement magic show Venue? L’Allicance Francaise When? November 22 Event? Bel Canto opera Venue? Sofitel Zallaq Hotel When? November 22 Event? Invest in France talk Venue? Capital Club

24 November 2011 BTM

French artistique The image of a French man in a beret brandishing a palette and brush stems from the great deal of artistic masterpieces derived from France over time and French Week showcases a number of today’s artists for all to see. One exhibition will show Marion Cougnon, who works with traditional Vietnamese lacquer technique to create decorative interior pieces. Marion will also present a video and workshop to unearth the origin of of lacquer and also to outline her company, Toiles de Style.

A second exhibition allows you to view unpublished documents, manuscripts and notebooks from poet and musician Georges Brassons’ archive. On display will also be photographs and personal items such as instruments that once belonged to him.

There will also be a collaborative exhibition from the Corianne Gallery in Paris which will include works from artists who work with all mediums and finally you can view the works of magazine reporter and photographer Didier Audebert, as well as some of his short films.

Un film festival

Melodic notes To really bring some culture to French Week, a selection of bands and performers from France will be lighting up various venues with alternative styles of music and dance. Singing group Swing de Luxe has an extensive repertoire spanning many decades and many genres. Expect to hear a diverse range of sounds from Frank Sinatra to Django Reinhardt to Emir Kusturica.

For something a bit more classical, a group of four musicians, titled Trio Belleville, will be brandishing their stringed instruments and serenading you with guitar and violin skills. Or for some age-old tradition, dance group La Bouree Arverne will introduce you to a world of folkloric dances and costumes deriving from the most rural corners of France.

When? November 16-22 | Event? Film festival | Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Centre

When? November 16 Event? Opening ceremony Venue? Intercontinental Regency

When? November 16-22 | Event? Paris’ Corianne Gallery art exhibition | Venue? TBA

When? November 17-19 | Event? Swing de Luxe jazz concert | Venue? Regency Hotel (Nov 19) & BCC (Nov 17,18)

French Week Calendar

French cinema is recognised throughout the world as being artistic and successful, and French Week is paying tribute to five of the greatest films produced by French directors and actors. If you are yet to see Marion Cotillard as the brilliant but degenerating Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose then now is the time to rectify that, or catch Philippe de Broca’s emotionally binding classic Vipère Au Poing.

joy it up

Enjoy the lights in the Hooded Military Parka.

New styles designed to delight in stores now.

Š 2011 The Gap, Inc.

gap.bh

Bahrain City Centre

happeningsthismonth

Batelco is proving its commitment to the local community through a weekend-long workshop being held this month. The Startup Weekend has been formulated to encourage all of you young aspiring entrepreneurs to establish yourselves as successful experts in the fields of ICT and e-business enterprise. This event marks the first of its kind and derives from a non-profit organisation that began in Seattle, Washington.

The weekend will bring together developers, designers, marketers, product managers and startup enthusiasts to share ideas, form teams, build products and launch startups. It will be very hands-on for you to decide if startup ideas are viable, with a focus on customer development, validating ideas and building a minimal viable product.

E Call 17 611-898.

When? November 19 | Event? Craft fair | Venue? Bapco Club

When? Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays | Event? Spanish lessons | Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Center

When? November 17, 18 and 19 | Event? Startup Weekend | Venue? Batelco Staff Centre, Hamala

Calling Young Entrepreneurs!

Hola Spanish!

Priding itself on being a place for social and cultural exchange, the Shaikh Ebrahim Center is holding lessons in one of the world’s most widely-spoken languages, Spanish.

The lessons are open to anyone of any age and are taught by qualified and experienced teachers following the Common European Framework.

Adults can enroll in twice-weekly beginners, intermediate and conversation classes and children and students can attend workshops twice a month. The centre is also encouraging you to get involved with the culture through organising different activities relating to the Hispanic centre once a month on a Wednesday including exhibitions, music concerts, cinema screenings and cooking lessons.

E Call 39 121-314.

Crafty Ladies The American Women’s Association (AWA) is hosting the ideal solution to your Christmas shopping dilemma in the form of the annual snowflake art and craft fair in Awali. Spend a festive day browsing a wide selection of handmade products — handmade jewellery, Christmas decorations, paintings, pottery and ceramics all make perfect seasonal gifts for friends and family.

After all your hard work shopping, you also refresh yourself with delicious baked goods at the great Bake Shoppe, which is run by the AWA ladies. The fair also features tables for different charities, and this year the BSPCA and the Dogfather, as well as many others, will be in attendance. The entrance fee is 500 fils for anybody aged five and over, and all of the proceeds will go towards charity.

E Call 36 188-930 or 39 789-208.

26 November 2011 BTM

happeningsthismonth When? November 22-26 | Event? Jewellery Arabia | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

A Jewelled Affair The Middle East’s most prominent jewellery show holds court again this month, complete with dazzling collections and unique pieces from international brands.

If you can differentiate between jade and emerald, a princess cut and a rose cut and white-gold and gold then Jewellery Arabia should be your number one destination this month.

The world-renowned jewellery show is the largest of its kind in the Middle East and has been ongoing since its beginnings in 1992, marking the 20th anniversary this year. The event attracts brands from all over the world to bring their most inspirational collections for trade buyers, private collectors and the public alike to view. The last few years have seen over 600 exhibitors from 30 nations, including internationally-renowned brands such as Harry Winston, Hublot, Patek Phillipe and Piaget.

Many of this year’s exhibiting companies have an exclusive presence in the Middle East at Jewellery Arabia, affording the expected 45,000 visitors a unique view of the global market. A selection of these includes Bahrain Jewellery Centre, Asia Jewellers and AJM Kooheji Group.

The spectrum of jewellery on display will be incredibly extensive — collections will range from fine finished jewellery to luxury time pieces to precious stones from each corner of the world in every size, shape and cut imaginable. New brand collections will also be launched at the four-day event, giving all attendees an exclusive first look. The most recently released jewellery lines will be on show outlining this season’s trends in sublime style.

E Call 17 550-033 or visit www.jewelleryarabia.com.

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain 11 Torch Relay Launch HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council of Youth and Sports and Chairman of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) lit the first flame marking the start of the Bahrain 11 torch relay at a ceremony held at the Bahrain 11 Village in Al Fateh Corniche. HH Shaikh Nasser also inaugurated the Bahrain 11 Village, and the official Bahrain 11 fan & entertainment zone.

Following the opening, a press conference was held by Chief Executive Officer of the BOC and President of the Bahrain 11 Executive Committee Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and Secretary General of BOC and Vice-President of the Bahrain 11 Executive Committee Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa who previewed the torch relay and the opening ceremony of the Games

Khalid Al-Doseri, Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamed Al Khalifa & the official Mascot at the start of the Bahrain 11 Torch relay

HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamed Al Khalifa with dignitaries & officials

HH Shaikh Nasser greets Rehan & Um Rehan

28 November 2011 BTM

HH Shaikh Nasser & Shaikh Khalid tour the games village

Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamed Al Khalifa, Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa & Khalid Al-Doseri address the media

happeningsthismonth When? November 4 and 11 | Event? Talent show | Venue? Various locations When? November 3-16 Event? Pirates in Bahrain Venue? The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Two weeks of stunts, tricks and fun arrives in pirate form at LPOD. E Call 17 845-100.

When? November 11 and 18 Event? Nescafé talent show Venue? Various locations The talent is set to heat up as the show enters the semi-finals stage.

E Call 39 920-161.

When? November 12 Event? Amwaj Marina market Venue? Amwaj Marina Enjoy the outdoors and pick up some bargains, trinkets and clothing.

E Call 16 030-605.

When? November 17-19 Event? Startup Bahrain Venue? Batelco Staff Centre All young entrepreneurs are invited to take part in this brainstorming workshop.

E Visit www.bahrain. startupweekend.org.

Superstar in Our Midst Talent seems to be endless at Nescafe’s talent show as the competition heats up and the show gets more intense.

Will a new star be unearthed?

Season Four of Nescafé’s ‘Show ‘Em What U Got’ is currently just half-way through, and has seen an astonishingly large number of hopefuls enter in the chance of progressing towards the final. The talent show has completed its two preliminary stages and has sifted through all of the entrées leaving those who deem worthy of a place in the finals.

The audition stage saw performers that wowed both the crowds and judges, and some who didn’t make the cut. So far the judges have been incredibly impressed with the show of talent that has emerged as a result of a competition like this.

In fact, the organisers are so impressed by this year’s show of talent that they are already lining up marketing campaigns for a selection of the best artists. “The campaign is to support those talents, to push them to a further level of professionalism. We are having the top artists interviewed on Amwaj TV and also has them go through workshops for music and artistic development,” says Jalal Jaffar, music producer at TopTune Audio Services.

There are a total of four stages before the finals; prescreenings, auditions, eliminations and the semi-finals

30 November 2011 BTM

— contestants will have to go above and beyond to prove that they deserve the number one spot.

The contestants are being judged in front of a panel of judges composed of Adel Al Hubaishi, Jalal Jaffar, Hussain Al Nasser and Ahmed Al Zayani, all experienced in the field of music and arts. So far, the judges have been to the point and haven’t held back on detailed criticism.

Due to this year’s change in classification, for the first time the contest has been split into categories, prompting more youngsters to join and also raising the standard of talent.

With the semi-final and the finals to be held this month, the wait to get to the top and perform in front of a wide audience in the Cultural Hall is almost over. The organisers have already contacted those who have passed to the next round, including a variety of talents and acts, ranging from singers, musicians, bands, dancers and novelty acts.

“We have talents from Germany, India, Saudi, Kuwait, The Philippines and many more, the show is for everyone to gain experience and show passion for being on the stage and performing,” explains Zuhair, from Nescafé.

The fourth season of ‘Show ‘Em What U Got’ is co-organised

by TopTune Audio Services and ZCCB-El Yowm Productions.

E Call 39 920-161.

When? November 19 Event? Craft fair Venue? Bapco Club The American Women’s Association hosts annual arts and craft fair.

E Call 16 188-936 or 39 789-208.

When? November 20-21 Event? Education exhibition Venue? Mövenpick Hotel EDUXTEX is your opportunity to see the best of British education.

E Call 17 266-169.

When? November 22 Event? The magic of selling Venue? Bahrain International Retail Development Centre Randall Munson explains how to boost your selling skills.

E Call 17 727-620.

When? November 22-26 Event? Jewellery Arabia Venue? Gulf convention centre The 20th anniversary of this showcase event is glitz and glamour.

E Visit www.jewelleryarabia.com.

When? November 23 Event? Mind Mapping and Creativity lecture Venue? Institute of Hospitality and Retail Learn how to use the brain to its fullest potential with expert Tony Buzan.

E Call 17 698-720.

When? November 23-26 Event? Boat show Venue? Amwaj Marina Take in a range of boats and marine-related products alongside entertainment.

E Call 38 308-962.

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

happeningsthismonth When? November 23-26 | Event? Bahrain Boat Show International | Venue? Amwaj Marina, Amwaj Islands

A Show of Boats The Bahrain Boat Show is back with a bang to dazzle attendees with a whole wealth of impressive boating models and diverse live entertainment.

This month marks the arrival of the third annual Bahrain Boat Show (BBS). Building upon last year’s success with even more entertainment and jaw-dropping styles of boats to admire, the show will be a huge event not to be missed and expects to attract many visitors over its four-day period.

A diverse range of marine-related products will be on display, from small fishing boats to huge gleaming yachts.

Diving equipment, kayaks, jet skis and sailing boats will also all be exhibited providing attendees with many different styles to view. You can take the opportunity to tour the boats and view their luxurious magnitude as they are opened up for everyone to explore.

Additionally, the boast show will be inclusive of activities and entertainment to take part in, watch and enjoy. There will be white-knuckle stunts performed on jet skis, plus a special, and intriguing, performance of flying boats and the Navy rescue team will be flaunting their skill on the water. Be sure not to miss a unique drawing on the sand performance and take a break and unwind with the live jazz band, DJ and other various musicians.

Bahrain Boat Show is partnering with the Bahrain Economic Development Board for this year’s event, who supports the development of the leisure marine infrastructure in the Kingdom.

E Call 38 308-962 or visit www.bahrainboatshow.com.

bystanderthismonth

Sellabrations 1st Charty Bazaar Sellabrations’ 1st Charity Bazaar was held in conjunction with the breast cancer awareness month and in collaboration with Think Pink Bahrain last month. The bazaar was held at the Marquee Hall,The Royal Golf Club, with a percentage of the proceeds of the Bazaar donated to Think Pink Bahrain

Faye Khalifa, organiser & Julie Sprakel

Marisal, Charlotte, Janine & Haifa

Perry, Amie, Doaa, Noha & Yara

32 November 2011 BTM

Abir & Leen

Faye Khalifa with volunteers

Husnia

Ilse

Eman

Joelle

Ahmed

Laya

Sarah

Hussain

Noora

Irfan

happeningsthismonth When? November 3-16 | Event? Pirates in Bahrain | Venue? The Lost Paradise of Dilmun LOST PARADISE OF DILMUN

Just as the weather cools, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) heats up with a fiery pirate show for maximum fun and certain drenching.

But fear not as the show’s performers are in fact ex-Olympian athletes and not trained robbers. The only things they will be stealing are gasps from the mesmerised crowds.

Invading LPOD fully equipped, with all of the necessary gear, these pirates have shipped in an entire container from Germany including a canon.

“An epic tale will unfold before the audience as pirates perform incredible feats and amazing stunts before their eyes, delighting children and families alike,” assures Issa Asmar, assistant general manager at LPOD. Each day there will be four theatrical water shows at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. The hearty series of events will include acrobatics, gymnastics and dances, so be sure not to miss the pirates flip, dive and swing across the waterpark.

“There will be sword fights, pyrotechnics and juggling included as part of the entertainment package during the two weeks,” Issa continues. The entire park will be themed to suit the event — you will see waiters and guards dressed as pirates while performing their normal duties.

The entrance price of BD22 also includes access to all of LPOD’s regular attractions, so take full advantage of every ride with the additional excitement the pirates will bring!

E Call 17 845-100 or visit www.LPODwaterpark.com.

All Aboard!

The Lost Paradise of Dilmun is facing a two-week-long pirate attack, complete with canons, a giant ship and utter swashbuckling activity.

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Roche Bobois Re-Opening Roche Bobois held a reception for a number of VIP guests to mark the re-opening of its store in the Seef district last month

Yassin & Liz

Leon & Aloke

Eric & Mohammed

Liz & Mr Al Ghawi

Leon, Yassin & Liz with VIPs

Leon & Marise

34 November 2011 BTM

Liz, Nancy & Silvana

Yassin & Abdulla Bu Hindi

Faye & Liz

Dr Nassif, Silvana & Leon

happeningsthismonth When? November 3-18 | Event? The Wonder Weekends | Venue? Seef Mall SEEF MALL

Wonder Weekends

Seef Mall have provided the perfect way for you to spend your weekends until the end of the year, with themed games, activities and prizes for everyone to take part in.

This month, Seef Mall is continuing it’s special weekend campaign, packed full of events and happenings to heighten your visit.

‘The Wonder Weekends’, kicked off on October 27 and 28 with a fashion show presenting the latest autumn/winter trends. The campaign will run throughout this month and until the end of December. Each weekend will be given a particular theme and feature exclusive free entertainment, events and activities for the whole family to take part in.

This month begins on the weekend of November 3 with a treat for the ladies — Make-Up Weekend. Ladies will have the opportunity to learn the tricks of the make up trade from the industry’s experts. Indulge yourself in a free professional makeover leaving you looking like you’ve stepped out of a magazine, whilst picking up some useful tips and secrets to keep you looking fantastic at home. You can always pop into one of the mall’s many cosmetic stores after to pick out some new items to rehearse your new skills with!

Following this will be the Toon Town Weekend, which will run on two consecutive weekends — November 9 to 12 and 17 to 18. This weekend is ideal for the little ones; children of all ages will be welcomed to take part in games of all varieties, let loose and sing and dance along to popular cartoon tunes, meet their favourite cartoon characters, and read some of their most treasured comics and books. Adults can either join in or simply relax and watch.

National Pride Two special events are lined up for the last month of the year. Over the National Day holiday, December 16-17, there will be an art competition for you to depict your favourite perception of the Kingdom. Between December 21-24, a carnival takes place full of prizes and surprises. It promises to be a great deal of fun for all the family. E Call 17 581-111.

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Rotary Club Of Manama Lunch Meeting The Rotary Club of Manama held a luncheon meeting for members and guests the Gulf Hotel's Awal Ballroom. At the lunch the club welcomed HE Shaikh Ahmed bin Salman bin Daij Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Disabled Sports Federation and congratulated the football team on their 3rd place at the 5th GCC Football Championships for the Hearing Impaired

Waleed

Bashar Ahmadi, HE Shaikh Ahmed & officials with the football team

Hassan

Bashar Ahmadi presents a memento to HE Shaikh Ahmed Othman & HE Shaikh Ahmed

Joseph, Ann & Mazen

36 November 2011 BTM

Raj & Steve

Ali

Ahmed, Adnan, Ussama & Tareq

Michel, Bob & Prakash

Rodney

Ali

happeningsthismonth When? November 12 | Event? Amwaj Marina Market | Venue? Amwaj Marina, Amwaj Islands AMWAJ MARINA MARKET

Family Day Out

Dust off your bargaining skills and head down to Amwaj Islands for the return of the Saturday market; relish in thrift shopping, outdoor fun and some delicious street food.

Now the weather permits us to enjoy the outdoors, the Amwaj Marina Market is finally back providing everyone with an idyllic way to spend a Saturday. This will be the start to the new season and the organisers have exciting new stalls lined up to browse and enjoy.

The usual attractions remain, including various live cooking stations which will be rustling up with meaty barbequed burgers.

Avid thrift shoppers have no need to worry, as you will be able to dig out rare treasures in the wide assortment of products on sale, and possibly check some names off your extensive Christmas list! Rummage through frames of all shapes and sizes, unique clothes from local designers, handmade jewellery, all styles of shoes, fresh flowers and even pet products.

Bring the little ones along too for a day out and enjoy fun activities such as face painting, henna and they will surely tire themselves out on the kids rides and bouncy castle. There will also be a live show for the whole family to enjoy — for the first time, a Taekwondo show will be held at both 3pm and 4pm as well as a few more suprises.

The market will now be running on the first Saturday of every month until April 2012 so there are plenty of chances to enjoy the outdoors and what the vendors have to offer.

E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607.

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World Beat Fitness Center Open Day Over 100 ladies and girls filled World Beat Fitness Center and Cafe for its 6th Annual Think Pink Open Day, "Fitness For The Cure" last month. Scores of family and friends came to see the half time program with Capoeria, junior modeling and a performance by The World Beat All Stars.

Teachers, staff, volunteers and sponsors helped raise over BD 5000 during the event

Nia Class

World Beat’s management with some of the participants

38 November 2011 BTM

Hilarie & Seema in BodyVive

Adriana, teaching BodyVive

happeningsthismonth When? November 23 | Event? Mind mapping and creativity lecture | Venue? BIHR BAHRAIN INSTITUTE OF HOSPITALITY AND RETAIL

Controlling the Mind Prepare to be amazed at a special one-day lecture with Tony Buzan in understanding how to use the brain to its fullest potential.

The Bahrain Institute for Hospitality and Retail (BIHR) is one of the Kingdom’s largest specialist providers for entry-level vocational education in the fields of hospitality, retail and tourism. The institute continuously looks for opportunities to expand its services and provide unique workshops and courses for everyone.

As part of the services offered, BIHR is holding a one-day only course with the internationally acclaimed memory maestro Tony Buzan. The course, entitled ‘Mind Mapping and Creativity’, will explain to attendees how two of the human brain’s most powerful attributes work.

“The mind expanding techniques of the genius that is mind maps will help all that attend elevate their memory and creativity from ordinary to the infinitely extraordinary” outlines Tony.

After a 30-year quest to introduce this powerful brain tool to the world, Tony now spends most of his days imparting his thinking skills to governments, educators and business leaders all around the world. “I want everyone who attends the course to come away with a different perspective on themselves, their skills and their creative abilities. I guarantee that nobody in my audience will ever view his or her mind in the same way again!” Tony explains.

So whatever field you aspire to excel in, Tony’s course will be a once in a lifetime opportunity that is guaranteed to develop your mind in more ways than one.

E Call 17 698-720.

bystanderthismonth

BIHR Workshop The Bahrain Institute of Hospitality & Retail (BIHR) held a workshop titled 'Disciplined For Life - You Are The Author of Your Future' featuring international motivational speaker Bob Urichuck. The inspirational workshop was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel last month Safiya, Bob Urichuck, Amal Almoayyed & Ahmed

Manoj, Hatim & Nigel

Mohammed Kooheji

Rohit & Karthik

Ahmed, Ahmed, Vladimir, Maneka, Valmonte, Natasha & Roxeanne

Rosy & Lamiya

Chinna

S. Balasubramaniyam & Ram

Pallavi & Yasser

40 November 2011 BTM

Santhosh, Arvind & Uday

Nadia, Amina & Manal

Gopal, Rafiq & Colin

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Malaysian Ambassador's Dinner HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador & his wife Nor Hayati, hosted a dinner reception for Ambassador's and members of the ASEAN Embassies in the kingdom. The dinner was held at HE's official residence in Jasra last month

HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador, standing 4th from left, Nor Hayati, 5th from left with members of the Malaysian Embassy

Rosita & Sukma

Anita, Amna, Nor & Zarina

HE Corazon Yap-Bahjin, Philippines Ambassador

Hussain, Rashida & HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador

Ahmed Haji Jumat & Agus Salim

Raquel, Norma & Kanyarat

Shahafez & Rizwan

Ayob & Rifqi

Marline & Rina

Thatree, Zul & Witchu

Claribel & Ella

Grace & Jenny

Golden Tulip French Dinner The Golden Tulip Hotel hosted a classic French gourmet dinner for a number of invited guests last month

Michel & Lani

Daniel Mast, executive chef, second from left, with staff

44 November 2011 BTM

Ivan, Angela & Olivier

Vinc & Isa

Daniele & Jean-Pierre

Dominic

Nicolas & Francois

bystanderthismonth

De Beers Store Launch Under the patronage of HH Shaikha Thajba bint Salman Al Khalifa, the AJM Kooheji Group and De Beers Diamond Jewellers held an exclusive celebration to mark the opening of the first De Beers store in the kingdom. The store is located in the Moda Mall Jewellery Court

Isa, Jamal, Francois, Abdulla, Rohit, Mahmood, Mohammed & Salim

Bala & Kaizad

Mohammed Kooheji with VIP guests

Salwa & Mahim

Carol, Tina, Barbara & Donna

Shandra & Kirsti

Nirmala, Asha, Sunitha, Natasha & Rekha

Jenan, Mohammed & Doris

David with David Rees

46 November 2011 BTM

Sara Abu Al Fateh

Francois Delage

Jamal, Mahmood, Salim, Zayed Al Zayani & Isa

Marise, Celine & Layla

Reem & Nada

Debbie, Shandra & Catherine

Alexandra & Martine

Abdulla Kooheji

Nathalia

Lynn Svensson

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Bahrain City Centre Walkathon For Think Pink Hundreds of people of all ages stepped out to support International Breast Cancer Awareness Month at the Bahrain City Centre by participating in the mall's 'Kick up your Heels' walkathon, a 3km walk of hope around the mall. The walkathon was held in support of Think Pink Bahrain, a local non-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness and funds in support of early detection of breast cancer

Ali, Sakeena & Dipti

Sharon, Amineh & Karimeh

Sue, Charlotte & Fatima

Bahrain Irish Society presents a cheque of BD 900 to Think Pink. Seen here, Pam, Julie, Ann, Lori & Anita

Maha & Amal

Evelyn

Beverley

Elizabeth, Leanne, Carien, Adri, Sony & Aimee

Lori with BCC staff members

Sakeena, Aysha, Ali & Lori

Shirin, Vani & Dr Usha

Kamini, Dipti, Karishma & Poonam

Gani, Jenny & Estela

Bharti & Natasha

Marwa & Safa

Jalal, Paul, Gill & Lubna

Marwa, Shaikha & Reem

Dr Jowder & Naheed

Mary, Angie & Mel

48 November 2011 BTM

happeningsartsculture When? November 18 | Event? Family fair (introduction to new academy) | Venue? The British School of Bahrain

A New Endeavour

When? November 1-8 Event? Recycled shoes Venue? Saks Fifth Avenue Safaaa Alset continues to display her peculiar shoe creations made of metal.

E Call 17 717-707.

If you are passionate about music and want to take your skills to another level, the British School of Bahrain aims to help you achieve just that.

The British School of Bahrain (BSB) plans to use its own facilities to establish an academy located within its own grounds, which is open to the general public. The new Arts Academy, at the heart of the project, will be the first of its kind and has created quite a buzz among music and dance enthusiasts, and have music and dance sections.

“Bahrain has no young bassoonists and very few young oboe, clarinet, cello and double bass players. These wonderful instruments should be made available for everyone,” said Sven, the current director of extracurricular activities at BSB. Offering individual instrumental and vocal lessons as well as group lessons in violin, recorder, singing and music theory, the Music Academy welcomes any age groups which include children and adults of Bahrain’s community.

Aiming to make this unique venture one that is both diverse and abundant in its resources, the courses will be taught only by highly qualified music experts and will also include African drumming classes and coaching for rock band.

“We won’t be having any upper age limit for the academy and we are also hoping to run some mum and baby classes in the near future so we’d really have something for everyone,” adds Sven.

Also under the arts division is the Dance Academy which includes everything from ballet to freestyle jazz classes.

And it doesn’t stop there, in conjunction with the already well-known music group MASK, the academy hopes to provide

50 November 2011 BTM

theatrical music experiences, workshops, coaching and a number of productions.

“Our aim to provide an exciting array of professionally taught courses for the entire community. What’s also exciting is that the academy will also be the centre for ABRSM music exams,” Sven adds.

The idea of a school having academies open to the community originally comes from the British School of Kuwait where Sven was formerly the director of the British Academy of Sport.

Although still quite new to the Kingdom, Sven hopes to bring about a new flow of arts events to complement the country’s music and dance repertoire. “The arts scene in Bahrain varies from year to year. There have been various concert series such as The Music of the Masters as well as regular excellent concerts from the Manama Singers and Bahrain Sinfonia. In addition, there are the country’s main festivals which bring a high standard of musical and artistic performance to Bahrain.”

The introduction to this much-anticipated idea will be given during the annual BSB international family fair where a series of performances will be held on two stages alongside other fun activities. So, if you think you have a musical spark in you, don’t miss this chance to sign up for a course. Doors open from 11am to 4pm. E Call 38 345-256.

When? November 1-15 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Ella Art Gallery An artistic, and personal, tribute to Ella’s time spent in Bahrain.

E Call 17 292-815.

When? November 4 Event? Autumn Fest Venue? Indian School Delight in performances from top Malayalam comedians, musicians and singers.

E Call 39 628-556.

When? November 7, 14, 21, 28 Event? Various events Venue? Sh Ebrahim Center An array of international Arab artists will be keeping you entertained this month.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? November 18 Event? Art Academy opening Venue? The British School The annual family fair will launch the British School’s open-for-all academy.

E Call 38 345-256.

When? November 19 Event? Art exhibition Venue? World Beat Café A nature inspired collection featuring artist Andrea Sibilia’s latest pieces.

E Call 17 612-576.

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Heels of Steel

Albareh Art Gallery, in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue, brings us somewhat of a peculiar exhibition by brilliant Syrian artist Safaa Alset.

The subject of the exhibition is high heel shoes, which is simply and comically, entitled “Shoe”, a double entendre as the word in Arabic means “what do you want?”

Through the manipulation of metal as an art material, Safaa challenges the common perception of metal being spiritless and hard to handle, while commanding it into submission to portray a feminine side.

“The idea explored is the concept of shoes beyond the conventional meaning of the item. The artist is exploiting and exposing the affinity that exists between the consumer and this particular product in an exaggerated manner and, by doing so, she makes us look beyond the surface,” says Hayfa Aljishi, organiser at Albareh Art Gallery.

With the exhibition, Safaa reveals the secret relationship that attracts women to shoes and the connection to femininity, to nature, to fashion and to social status. But don’t be fooled, the exhibition has deeper roots and in fact reflects the endless hidden stories of women and their aspirations, about their backgrounds and societies and what their shoes can tell us about them.

“A pair of shoes has always been a focal definition of the person wearing them and Saks has always provided a selection of exquisite styles, from renowned and highly acclaimed shoe designers. After all, a pair of shoes could change your life.

Just ask Cinderella,” outlines Hayfa. E Call 17 717-707.

52 November 2011 BTM

When? November 19-December 31 | Event? Art Exhibition | Venue? World Beat Café

When? November 1-8 | Event? Shoe exhibition | Venue? Saks Fifth Avenue

When? November 7, 14, 21, 28 | Event? Various events | Venue? Sh Ebrahim Center

happeningsartsculture

A World of Culture Included among this month’s line up of events at the Sheikh Ebrahim Center is a performance by Saad Mahmood Jawad — ‘Master of Uod’ — on November 7. The Iraqi musician has established himself as an undisputed player of the Arabic instrument and has previously been very well received in the Kingdom.

Also don’t miss “Time of news and time of ideas”, a lecture featuring previous Lebanese Minister of Culture Tariq Metri. There is also something for all literature lovers; Najwa Barakat, the well-known Lebanese novelist, will hold “In the geography of his time and narrative” on November 28. E Call 17 322-549.

A Natural Display Artist Andrea Sibilia’s is holding an exhibition of her latest work, all of which is stimulated greatly by her reaction to the beauty of nature.

She conveys her vision of landscapes, water scenes and the sky through colours, textures and techniques and all of these mediums are incorporated into the exhibition, titled “Inspired by Nature”.

Andrea speaks of the inspiration for her new work, “I am drawn to the sunsets; their amazing light and soft colours, but also by the contrast of the strength and power of storms,” she says.

All are welcome to attend the opening day of the exhibition, where light refreshments will be served. Doors to the exhibition open at 4pm and all are welcomed to view the artist’s work as well as have a meet and greet session until 6pm. E Call 17 612-576.

happeningsclubssocieties When? November 15-18 | Event? Fawlty Towers production | Venue? British Club

When? November 3 Event? Autumn show Venue? The British Club An evening of entertainment with Radio Bahrain DJ Paul Fraser, and much more.

E Call 39 537-742, 39 191-757 and 39 697-913.

When? November 4 Event? Charity dinner and dance Venue? Gulf Hotel The Ecumenical Conference hosts fund-raiser for a great cause.

E Call 39 537-742, 39 191-757 and 39 697-913.

A Comic Production Alison Coldridge

Ladies and gentlemen, take your seats and enjoy some classic British comedy as the Manama Theatre Club take to the stage with Fawlty Towers.

John Cleese’s classic British sitcom is being revived by the Manama Theatre Club (MTC) this month. Fans of the show will be delighted to hear of reproductions of two episodes from the comical show — Communication Problems and Waldorf Salad.

Originally aired in 1975 on BBC2, a total of 12 episodes of Fawlty Towers were produced, written and starred in by Monty Python actor John Cleese and his wife Connie Booth. The sitcom series, regularly voted in the top-three of classic comedy shows, was inspired during a visit to a hotel by the Monty Python crew, with a hilariously rude hotel owner.

MTC club member, Rory Adamson is delighted to be working on such a fun British production, “We are so lucky to have the comic genius of John Cleese and Connie Booth for such a wonderful script. The entire club has been having a huge amount of fun rehearsing and we cannot wait to hear the audience laughing,” Rory says.

The first production will be directed by Mike Franklin and the second by Richard Boddy, both club members who will have cameo roles in one another’s performances. The star of the show will be Rory who has been cast as the marvelously rude hotel owner, Basil Fawlty, in both productions. Also starring in

54 November 2011 BTM

the comedies are Joanna Pascoe as Basil’s wife Sybil, Palmera Mettner as the maid Polly, Rashed Mokdad as the waiter Manuel and Mike Eddison as Major Gowen.

Rory remembers watching the show as a child and is happy to assure parents that MTC’s production is fully suitable for children over the age of nine. “I am particularly happy that we are staging a production that children can attend. I loved Fawlty Towers as much as a child as I love now it now”. In total there will be four evening performances plus a matinee option on the last day. Tickets can be purchased from the British Club reception.

Long-standing entertainers The MTC has a long history of successful performances, which draw in large crowds from all over the Kingdom. “We try to have between two and three performances a year, and have staged over 100 productions in total. All nationalities are welcome and we are very pleased to have two Bahrainis in our current cast. In addition, the production is being produced by Marina Tadayon, another Bahraini,” Rory explains.

The club became what it is today after merging the Bahrain Theatre Club and Manama Players in 1989, and presently there are around 30 members.

The MTC already has a number of other shows on the pipeline for next year, including Philip King’s British film See How They Run and the uplifting children’s musical Annie.

E Call 39 955-973.

When? November 7 Event? Kabaddi competition Venue? Ahli Club, Zinj Watch or join the Pakistan Club take part in a popular Asian sport.

E Call 39 465-375 or 39 606-231.

When? November 15-18 Event? Fawlty Towers production Venue? The British Club Enjoy the Manama Theatre Club’s performance of a classic British sitcom.

E Call 39 955-973.

When? November 21 Event? British Club election Venue? British Club Vote for members of a new executive committee.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? November 24 Event? St. Andrew’s Day ball Venue? Bapco Club The Caledonian Society is celebrating the Scottish national day with a dance.

E Call 39 176-909.

When? November 30 Event? Annual Pro tournament Venue? The Royal Golf Club This popular contest invites all members to prove their golfing worth.

E Call 17 750-777.

happeningskidsteens When? December 2 | Event? Drawing competition | Venue? Al A’ali Mall

When? December 2 Event? Little Picassos Venue? Al A’ali Mall Your little ones can express their creativity in this drawing competition.

E Call 37 770-368.

When? November 11 Event? Walkathon Venue? Bahrain Sailing Club Kids can have a go at this mini triathlon to raise money for charity.

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

Drawing Out Bahrain Wafa Ebrahim Abdulla This month kids can unleash their inner artist by participating in the Little Picassos drawing competition and depicting their impression of Bahrain.

Encourage the kids to take up a hobby that allows them to express their thoughts with colours by joining the contest at Al A’ali Shopping Complex this month. Did you know that Picasso himself was trained by his father at the young age of seven to draw? This year your child could discover his or her artistic brilliance with this successful annual competition.

‘I love Bahrain’ is the theme this time around, which was put together to promote important issues of acceptance and peace — in light of the recent events that took place here in the Kingdom.

“The event aims to educate children on the importance of a unified Bahrain along with helping them showcase what they love most about this beautiful multicultural country,” says Mahin Al Wazzan, business manager of International Advertising Agency (IAA).

IAA has been planning the competition for eight months now and are expecting around 1,000 participants. All those wishing to take part can pre-register for BD1 or sign in on the day of the event for BD1.5, in both cases there is a registration form to be filled out. There are three different age categories your child can enter into; below seven years-old, seven to 12 years-old, and finally 13-18 years-old.

A panel of well-respected artists such as Ella Prakash, Rashid

56 November 2011 BTM

Al Oraifi, Khalid Al Muharraqi, and Jaffar Al Oraibi will serve as the judges and pick the winner. “They will be looking for the drawing that conveys the theme in the best way possible and displays the utmost creativity among the participants. Criteria such as originality, creativity, theme interpretation and artistic quality are considered,” adds Mahin.

All of the artworks will be showcased to the public at the mall in an art exhibition running throughout the competition, and the winners from each category will be selected on the last day of the competition. The winners will each receive a prize — in previous years the competitions’ prizes have included TVs, DVD players, airline and theme park tickets — and this year Mahin emphasises that they have more exciting rewards in stores for the little ones.

Other entertainment will also take place during the week including face and henna painting, educational games, balloon twisters and clowns.

Mahin expresses that Little Picassos have been well received in the past, “Participants and parents love the event as it’s great value for money. Entrants get the whole competition kit which includes a T-shirt, colouring sets, meal vouchers, brochures and other goodies. What makes parents even more interested is that there is a specific theme each year that tackles issues that are significant to what is going on in Bahrain. We’ve dealt with themes about using seatbelts, conserving the environment, saving electricity and water, and staying healthy,” says Mahin.

E Call 37 770-368 or visit www.facebook.com/ littlepicassosbh.

When? November 11 Event? Kiddie competition Venue? Bahrain Yacht Club Sand castle, painting and swimming competitions will be open for to all kids.

E Call 17 700-677 or www.thebahrainyachtclub.com.

When? November 11, 18, 25 Event? Kids Grand Prix Venue? Riffa Views This running race is a great way for kids to get fit and healthy.

E Call 36 876-876.

When? November 18 Event? Bahrain Unity Taekwondo Venue? Um Al Hassam Sports Hall A great sport for kids to take part in whilst they learn some fighting moves.

E Call 17 466-171.

When? November 19 Event? Junior Elite competition Venue? The Royal Golf Club Young members and non-members get to play on the three Wee Monty courses.

E Call 17 750-777 or www.theroyalgolfclub.com.

When? November 24-25 Event? Seventh Model UN Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel University students will discuss and debate challenges facing the world.

E Call 17 749-649 or visit www.bahumun.org.

happeningssportsrecreation When? November 15-19 | Event? Kingdom Regatta 2011 | Venue? Bahrain Sailing Club

When? November 8-12 Event? Squash tournament Venue? Keraleeya Samajam Club The country’s best squash and badminton players take to the court.

E Call 17 251-878.

When? November 11 Event? Olympic triathlon Venue? Bahrain Sailing Club Run to support this breast-cancer and autism fund-raising event.

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

Kingdom of Waves Wafa Ebrahim Abdulla The Bahrain Sailing Club is tough, tactile and talented; skills that they will be showcasing at this year’s Kingdom Regatta.

As we live on an island entirely surrounded by water, it makes sense that water sports are one of the Kingdom’s most favoured leisure activities. The Bahrain Sailing Club is one such group that is passionate about spending time out on the water, however they also take part in competitions and challenges proving their performance skill and ability.

This month, The Bahrain Sailing Club (BSC), in alliance with the Maritime Sports Association (MSA), has organised the Kingdom Regatta 2011 — a grade three open match race.

Contestants will compete in J24 boats, which are provided by the MSA, and are considered easy to handle for beginners and professionals alike.

Each team can participate with four to five members, but must not exceed the total weight of 350kgs.

The race will be conducted in different classes and types; Fleet Race Event, Optimist, Laser Radical and Laser Standard.

The teams with the highest scores will also qualify to partake in the America’s Cup, Nation’s Cup, continental and other world events.

More than 15 countries participating in the regatta, including Russia, Estonia, Turkey, India, Switzerland, Egypt, Tunisia and

58 November 2011 BTM

of course Bahrain. The BSC coach, Qassim Ben Jamia, explains this level of international participation.

“People come to Bahrain for three reasons; the weather conditions, the friendly people, and the competition’s prize money,” expresses Qassim, pointing out that the first three winners will receive a total of US$7,000 in prizes.

Unlike other competitions, the regatta allows spectators to witness the event, since the race is close to shore. Bring the family along and don’t miss the athletes in action at the Bahrain Sailing Club from 10am-4pm on the respective dates.

Qassim stresses the importance of the Kingdom Regatta, “This championship is ranked third in Asia after Malaysia’s Monsoon Cup and Qatar. It is a very high profile sailing event and shows our team’s level of expertise.”

Bahrain became the first country to introduce match racing in the Gulf, 11 years ago and the sailing team has achieved one of the highest rankings within the region and impressive scores on an international scale.

Qassim encourages people to take up the sport and added that there is no age limit. In fact, he mentioned that one of the members of the Bahraini national team is nine-year-old Khalid Shuwaiter.

“I started sailing when I was 12 years old,” says the 43-year-old coach, who has been doing this for 31 years, “and I don’t plan on giving up anytime soon!”

E Call 17 180-407.

When? November 11 Event? Fishing competition Venue? Bahrain Yacht Club This day of seafaring luck will tally up how much everyone can catch.

E Call 17 700-677 or visit www.thebahrainyachtclub.com.

When? November 11, 18, 25 Event? Grand Prix Venue? Riffa Views Join in or watch the Bahrain Road Runners swim, cycle and run.

E Call 36 876-876.

When? November 15-19 Event? Kingdom Regatta Venue? Bahrain Sailing Club A number of water races; perfect for all boating enthusiasts to take part in.

E Call 17 180-407 or email info@bsailing.com.

When? November 24-26 Event? Fourth Golf Trophy Venue? The Royal Golf Club The region’s best golfers compete at the fourth King Hamad golf championship.

E Call 17 750-777.

When? November 30 Event? Annual Pro tournament Venue? The Royal Golf Club This popular contest invites all members to prove their golfing worth.

E Call 17 750-777.

happeningssportsrecreation

When? November 11 | Event? Fishing competition | Venue? Bahrain Yacht Club

Competitive Angling There are plenty of fish in the sea, with many avid anglers waiting to catch them at the Bahrain Yacht Club (BYC) fishing competition this month. If you are a member of the BYC, Amwaj Marina, Al Bander Resort, Marina Club or Durat Al Bahrain, you are welcome to join in, but you must also have your own boat.

Participants from the BYC can register for a fee of BD2 and entry costs BD5 for members of the other mentioned clubs. This year, BYC is expecting close to 50 applicants to join in on the event, so it will be one tough competition!

E Call 17 700-677 or www.thebahrainyachtclub.com.

When? November 11, 18, and 25 | Event? Grand Prix | Venue? Riffa Views

Race for Awareness

Put your running shoes on and get ready to race with the Bahrain Road Runners (BRR) this month as the club organises a series of three races over three weeks. The distances will increase gradually each week, beginning at 5 km, stretching to 10 km and finishing at 15 km.

This much anticipated event will take place at Riffa Views, providing participants with beautiful surroundings whilst running. The BRR are known for holding similar events in order to raise awareness around specific issues such as obesity. By participating in the event you will be taking part in tackling the issue and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

To make sure everything runs smoothly, BRR will be on hand during the races, ensuring everyone’s safety. So grab that bottle of water, tighten those laces and get running.

E Call 36 876-876 or www.bahrainroadrunners.com.

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Jawad Supermarket 31st Anniversary Jawad Business Group (JBG), marked the 31st anniversary of the opening of the Jawad Supermarket in Barbar last month. The event was celebrated with a cake cutting ceremony attended by Abbas Abdullah Hussain, deputy chairman who was joined by Wafeia Almatawa, business head supermarkets, Zainab Jawad, training & development manager & Fadi Al Mahamid, divisional manager supermarkets, together with colleagues and customers

The cake cutting to celebrate the 31st anniversary of Jawad Supermarket

Ashok, Sunder, Jansir & Varghese

Fadi & Wafeia with staff members

60 November 2011 BTM

Zainab, Wafeia, Mona, Umnoor, Hassan & Nabeela

Hassan, Fatima & Hussain Jawad

Fadi & Noor

Simon & Rency

Shabana & Ashwini

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Ethiopian Gathering Members of the Ethiopian and the expatriate community got-together in support of Abay Dam last month at the Ramada Palace Hotel. The event featured a kid's play, a stage play and an traditional fashion show with clothes designed by Esky

Tariq

Mule & Shaikh Hamad

Joni, Hans & Roland

Esky

Dara & Judy

Claude, Bev & Marietta

Abdul Selam

Hamad, Abdulla, Sulthan & Jameela

Fisum, Seble, Gige & Emma

Denke & Eseynesh

Frezer & family

Yeshi, Tara & Demy

Deme & Heni reading a poem

Mimi, Danny & Neway

62 November 2011 BTM

Mouna, Arthur, George, Anne, Alison & Andrea

Hiwot

Gilmer & Mary

Rosa & Rosi

Esky, Elsa & Asmeret

Esky, Nigist & Geni

DJ Cleo

Abdu & Edom

Sara, Canan, Catherine, Rose, Gelila, Maria & Lea

Tik, Jerry, Eneya & Mouna

Bini, Andu & Haile performing

Zeytu, Esky, Lea, Abel & Ava

Kadja

Alex & Heni

Lilly

Aki

Soli, Yordi & Astrid

Hawi

Meaza

Kedja

Esky & Andy

Sandra

Andrea

Abel & Lea

Winta

Hawi

Esky with models

Abeba

Gilmary

Shamiso

Tewabe

Shamiso

Abeba

Esky & Mike

BTM November 2011 63

featurecapitalgovernorate

xxxxx Beginning November until the end of December, we’re planning to hold events that will bring the old by-lanes of Adliya to the forefront. For two days every week there will be cultural activities and outdoor bazaars, with artists and entertainers keeping visitors and shoppers busy

Ali Abdul Hussain Al Asfoor

The Heart of the Matter simi kamboj The Capital Governorate needs no introduction; it hosts the capital city, Manama, and serves as the business and financial centre for the Kingdom, and the home of major retail destinations.

An important trading centre for the last six centuries, Manama has the earliest history of civic governance in the region — in 1919, it was the first city in the Arab world to have its own municipality and educational institutions.

Housing one of Bahrain’s most strategic business districts, Manama is home to the Kingdom’s oldest trading companies.

Two-thirds of the Governorate’s 320,000 population happen to be foreign nationals, but the area is still reminiscent of Bahrain’s glorious history as a pearling and trading hub.

“Manama means a lot to Bahrain,” declares Ali Abdul Hussain Al Asfoor, the acting governor of Capital Governorate.

Earlier this October, he had the proud privilege to raise the GCC Games Torch at Bab Al Bahrain, as the regional Games were declared open here.

Following the crisis of earlier this spring, Ali feels the Bab Al Bahrain area needs support as the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector here has not fully recovered from the setback.

“We’ve held an exhibition free of charge for SMEs with assistance from Tamkeen and Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry. We’d like to have similar initiatives for this sector, which has suffered on account of the unrest,” he says.

In addition to remaining a commercial centre, Ali would like

Bab Al Bahrain to attract more tourism owing to its heritage value. The Capital Governorate is also involved in the Market 338 initiative at Adliya, where Al Riwaq Art Space has set up Bahrain’s first outdoor market to showcase artistic talent and attract both visitors and buyers.

“Beginning November until the end of December, we’re planning to hold events that will bring the old by-lanes of Adliya to the forefront. For two days every week there will be cultural activities and outdoor bazaars, with artists and entertainers keeping visitors and shoppers busy,” he says.

The Governor hopes Manama can maintain its long history of peaceful co-existence among the myriad of nationalities and cultures that reside here. He recalls the tour he gave Singaporean president SR Nathan at the Hindu temple in Manama last year.

“We’re proud of the cultural and religious freedom and space that expatriates enjoy in Bahrain.

Adequate security is provided so that everyone can observe their religion in peace. However, religion should never mix with politics and above all, religious ceremonies should be carried out with discipline and respect,” he asserts.

At the top of his agenda right now are the security arrangements for the ten-day observance of Muharram, for which he’s coordinating with the interior ministry and religious leaders from the Shia community.

Direction for youth A key concern for the Governor remains the apparent “idleness” of youths in the Kingdom and he’d like to explore ways in which the young and restless population can be gainfully occupied.

“Young people have too much free time on their hands, especially on weekends and sometimes they get involved in things they don’t understand out of sheer boredom,” observes Ali. The Governorate has plans to convert some of the land around Manama into clubs where sports and weekend programmes can be organised for youth, including professional counselling and career grooming sessions.

A keen footballer and fitness enthusiast, Ali has been a guiding force behind the City Walkers Group in Bahrain. He’s now planning to replicate the idea at other malls.

BTM November 2011 65

featurecapitalgovernorate

YATEEM CENTRE

A Taste of Culture Located in the heart of the Capital Governorate, the Yateem Centre has provided a location for home-grown businesses for the past 30 years and is still going strong today.

Andrew Petty

66 November 2011 BTM

Somewhat of a gem amongst Bahrain’s abundance of shopping areas, the Yateem Centre provides a traditional shopping experience, miles apart from the new malls fit to burst with designer labels and international brands. Equipped with a basement car park that provides mall customers with two hours of free parking, the centre’s privately-owned stores include electronics, fashion, cosmetics and handicrafts as well as a food court.

It is the ideal place to secure a bargain; many stores offer significant discounts from the original pricing. A new Adidas factory outlet is a prime example — you can buy the brand’s latest products for a fraction of the retail price.

Of course, you haven’t truly experienced the Yateem Centre unless you try some of its varied services. Shoe Shine will repair your favorite pair of shoes while you finish your shopping and Immediate Printing will create anything you need; business cards, brochures and invitations.

Centre manager Andrew Petty outlines why the Manama Souq area is the perfect place for the Yateem Centre to be situated, as it gives a feel for the ‘real’ Bahrain.

“A shopping centre can be found anywhere, but a souq gives you the nature of the city. When you’re looking for individuality rather than repetition, this market allows for a variety of things to be sold at bargain prices with traditional Bahraini customer care. Most original storekeepers are actually still here in the souq,” he says.

For long-time residents and locals, their once favourite stores still remain, and are thriving. “If you haven’t been to the mall in a while, head down and see how it has grown while still retaining its original humble values. We have ensured all local businesses are able to continue running within the Yateem Centre as it is crucial in terms of keeping true to traditions and culture,” Andrew adds.

Young entrepreneur scheme A recent addition to the suite of options available at Yateem Centre has been the creation of new programme, the Young Entrepreneur Scheme (YES).

“This programme helps both promote and kick-start the careers of young entrepreneurs,” says Andrew of the initiative. “We are helping enterprising Bahrainis to set up new concepts in the centre by reducing their financial risk, the YES has so far proven to be successful both for the owner, centre and shoppers.”

Two such outlets are Dar Lwzan, which provides handmade and inexpensive jewellery, and Red Heart D, which puts a modern spin on the traditional thobe for men.

E Call 17 215-615.

featurecapitalgovernate Ahmed Al-Fateh Islamic Centre Al Fateh Mosque, or the Grand Mosque as it is more commonly known, is the place to start if you really want to learn about the dominant faith of the country in which you live. The tour guides are excellent, and speak fluent English, and will spend as long as you wish showing you around and answering any questions you may have.

The building itself is stunning; the exterior has two towering minarets and a large and intricately-designed dome. The interior has a collection of fabrics, stones, glass and features from all over the world that ultimately create a quietly-beautiful house of worship and a comfortable meeting place for those of Islamic faith.

Females do have to wear traditional Arabic attire, but this only enhances the experience. Be sure also to drive by as the sun sets for a truly spectacular site.

Admission and opening hours: Free. Sun.-Thurs. 9am-4pm (except public holidays). E Call 17 727-773.

Capital Pastimes ALISON COLDRIDGE The Manama area encompasses many of the ‘main’ areas of the Kingdom, including some of the most known heritage sites and an abundance of leisure activities to enjoy with family and friends.

When one thinks of the Capital Governorate, it is safe to say that notions of shopping, going to the cinema, the beach and to restaurants spring to mind, however there are a surprising number of prolific cultural and informative sites which are some of the main attractions within the Kingdom.

Moreover, these sites aren’t just tourist hotspots, but locations which residents of Bahrain do, and should, visit as much can be learnt about the history of the country and its lifestyle-forming religion.

Beit Al Qur’an Positioned amidst various diplomatic buildings in the heart of the capital, the House of Qur’an safe keeps many ancient manuscripts of the Holy Islamic book. The design of the building is particularly intriguing; a horizontal almost square-like structure forms the exterior with a single minaret protruding out of the flatness.

Inside, there are many floors to explore full of ancient artifacts from all Islamic parts of the world and you can try your hand at some calligraphy and perhaps even attempt at writing from right to left, as the Arabic language is notated.

Admission and opening hours: Free. Sat.-Wed. 9am-12pm and 4pm-6pm, and Thurs. 9am-12pm. E Call 17 290-101.

68 November 2011 BTM

Bahrain National Museum Some may view museums as dull, but in fact Bahrain’s National Museum is a fascinating way to spend a few hours of your day — and you’ll learn a thing or two. Set against a picturesque background of the sea, the museum is a three-storey house of history.

Starting on the upper floors, you can learn about the first civilisations that settled in Bahrain, one of the oldest countries in the world. Artifacts, rock formations and photographs summarise the incredible age of this country and there is plenty of factual information to read. On the ground floor, you can view the Ministry of Culture’s plans to restore traditional Bahraini housing and buildings and what you might be able to view in Bahrain in years to come.

Located just to the side of the National Museum, is the Arts Centre. Here, you can view and purchase art pieces from both local and international artists. The exhibitions change frequently and the cost of purchasing is entirely dependent on your selected piece.

Admission and opening hours: 500 fils. Daily 8am-2pm and 4pm-8pm. E Call 17 298-777.

Facing the Future The revamped Bab Al Bahrain Souq provides a refreshingly modern, yet aesthetically traditional, entrance point to the Manama Souq.

Entirely refurbished in recent years to create an entrance to the main Manama Souq that is splendid to admire and to shop within, the Bab Al Bahrain Souq represents the changing face of central Manama. Located directly behind the Bab Al Bahrain Arch, it was designed to incorporate traditional Arabic aesthetics — such as fort-style doors and traditional lamps — along with modern amenities.

The completed look is grand and sophisticated, removing the cramped hustle and bustle aspects of a souq but staying true to traditional architectural features; high wooden beams cover the spacious main walkway and the bare white stonewashed walls are interspersed with wooden shutters concealing the shops.

All of the 31 shops and eight kiosks located in the new souq are compliant with the kind of shop one would expect to find in an Arabic souq. In fact, eight of the shops on the lower floor are only to be used by the original tenants of the souq.

Both of the two floors are adorned with quaint market stalls, each bursting with traditional local products, including souvenirs, cultural foods and sweets, fabrics, electronics and perfumes. There is also an art gallery and exisitng cafe and more traditional cafes will be built in the near future.

The redesign was carried out with the aim to boost Bahrain’s heritage by attracting more visitors to one of the country’s oldest shopping venues, luring both residents and tourists in with a more gentle approach to the sometimes intimidating atmosphere of the old souq. E Call 17 561-230.

The souq has changed.

Its soul has not.

The Bab Al Bahrain Souq continues the proud Bahraini tradition of providing a warm welcome to those who seek to experience a shopping adventure like no other.

Visit us today and discover how we’re preserving the best of our past for the benefit of our future. www.babalbahrainsouq.com

Located directly behind Bab Al Bahrain Arch in the heart of Manama.

BTM November 2011 69

featurecapitalgovernate

What to Do As the principal area in Bahrain, the Capital Governorate is home to the diplomatic area, financial harbour, markets, malls and two corniches. There is plenty for everyone to do and happily all is located within close proximity, meaning less time in the car and more time having fun!

Central Market Established in 1978, this market is the place to go to pick up the freshest produce. It spans a large area in central Manama by Marina Mall and offers both local and imported fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. The market is also home to Bahrain’s most significant fish market and your best chance of purchasing the freshest local fish and seafood — the market opens as soon as the fisherman are back with their catches.

It’s advisable to visit very early (the fish market opens around 5am) before the heat of the day amplifies the fishy smell, and you will also secure the best produce.

Corniches There are two prominent Corniches in the Capital Govenorate which manage to combine tranquillity with vibrancy. Both areas are ideal for walking and enjoying the cooler weather we are now experiencing yet there are also plenty of leisure activities for all ages to enjoy.

The Fateh Corniche area skims the sea edge from the Grand Mosque to the Bahrain National Museum, in Manama. It is a lovely stretch to enjoy a walk, as there are dedicated pedestrian pavements lined with palm trees and benches to rest on. There are also ample leisure activities to enjoy — both on land and on water.

Coral Bay is bliss for those of you who want to relax by the pool, soak up some sun and occasionally dip your toes in the sea. There are also ample dining options here when you get peckish. You can catch a show starring the most intelligent sea creature of them all at the Dolphin Park, where the friendly animals will swim, flip and dance for your entertainment at various times throughout the day.

Funland is great for kids, teenag ers and adults alike, complete with an ice skating rink and bowling lanes to revel in some indoor entertainment. Or if you want to head out in the water, you can rent jet skis, yachts and motorboats from the Marina Club and spend an afternoon messing around in the waves or dolphin watching.

On the north side of the island sits the King Faisel Corniche, located between Bahrain City Centre and the skyline-shaping Bahrain Financial Harbour. The King Faisel Corniche boasts beautiful views out to the sea and features a wide promenade-style walkway on which to carry out an evening walk.

Activity-wise, there is Kids Kingdom, which is an outdoor mini-theme park full of plenty of varied rides for children of all ages to play on.

70 November 2011 BTM

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ILA Dandiya Night The Indian Ladies Association (ILA) held its annual Dandiya Night cultural show at the Bahrain Conference Centre, Crowne Plaza Bahrain. The event held last month was also attended by HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & his wife Mala Kumar HE Mohan Kumar & Asha

Mala Kumar lights the traditional lamp

Mala Kumar & Ashalatha Shetty

Tanuja & Kauser

Dheeptha & Aovika

Mona, Shamreen & Raseena

Vipin, Srinivas, Raja & Abid

Aysha & Nivedita

Nalini & Ashalatha

Asha & Kundan

Pallavi, Marietta, Aysha & Jayashree

Manorama, Gopika, Roshini & Shanthini

Nina, Gopika & Karan

Mythreyee, Shanthini & Aarti

Veena, Malathi, Sudha, Aarti & Rekha

Thilini, Stephanie & Nicole

Sadhnan, Meera, Vidya & Sharmila

72 November 2011 BTM

Mariyam & Rekha

Anisha & Teresa

Suzanne & Catherine

A Bright StArt The one-stop answer to morning hunger pangs, SEVERIN‘S Breakfast Range includes a kettle, egg boiler and a toaster, all available in contemporary colours and finishes.

SEVERIN‘S extensive range of small domestic appliances, dubbed Culinary Entertainment, energises family fun at mealtimes.

Showroom Telephone 17 408 151 www.yyfakhro.com

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Dandiya Raas 2011 The Indian celebration of dance and culture, Dandiya Raas was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Over 3,000 people attended the event which featured traditional costumes, dances and music.

HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & his wife Mala Kumar also attended the event

Sumit & Deepthi

Priya & Mansi

Sharita & Irfan

Nigel & family

Dr Sheryl & Farah

74 November 2011 BTM

Hansu, Deepthi, HE Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar, Shubha & Shanthini

Safeya, Teju, Shurthi, Meenu, Aditi & Avantikal

Shami, Jayashree & Prethima

Farah & Maneka

Shivani, Dinesh, Trisha & Arya

Anjana & Deepthi

Ashalatha & Dheeptha

Shubha, Ashalatha, Nalini, Mala, Shanthini, Prethima, Meena & Tanuja

Roshan, Arva, Sunitha, Girish & Nimmi

Nithya & Mansi

Kunj

Nisharg & Kunj

Vinod, Divya & Shantha

HE Mohan Kumar with organisers & volunteers

Salma

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Lady Gaga Tribute At Club Buffalo Club Buffalo in California Hotel, Juffair, held a Lady Gaga Tribute at the outlet last month. The Lady Gaga tribute was performed by multi-award winning Donna Marie from the UK, who is internationally acclaimed as the best Lady Gaga tribute on the planet Lady Gaga & Antony

Khalid, Yasmeen & Daniel

Hector, Kayla, Amie & Harry

Daniel & Ali

Jake, Jeremy & Rachel

Amanda, Morgan, Roxanne & Sydney

Donna Mari as Lady Gaga rocks the house

Chrissy & Kayla

Vinny, Usha & Meena

Eta, Ivy, Ivana, Fenny & Santi

Janine & Heather

Casey & Marlize

Judith, Lady Gaga & Shanice with Sandeep & Varghese

Judith, Lady Gaga & Shanice with Antony & friends

76 November 2011 BTM

DJ Johnny Bailo & Nigel

Judith, Lauren, Lady Gaga & Shanice

Samantha & Loretta

Veronica, Shelly & Yohanny

Judith, Scott, Lady Gaga, Alisha, Shanice & Nigel

Ash & Dibi

Naveen & Shetty

Dre & Mark

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Oktoberfest 2011 A number of people attended the Gulf Hotel’s annual Oktoberfest held last month. The two-day Bavarian-themed festival sponsored by Gulf Brands was full of German oomp-pah-pah, traditional food, beverages and entertainment. The evening held at the hotel’s Gulf Convention & Exhibition Centre

Adnan & Aziz

Alwani & friends

Amy & Ana

Heinz the baloonist

John & Lori

Andrea & Annie

Rebecca & Thomas

Rebecca & Sophie

Warren & Dennis

Rocio & Alessandra

Bill & Tim

Erica, Miglena, Manfred & Lina

Ashalatha & Shantharam Shetty with the Ramee team

Yasmine, Paris, Andrea & Laura

Amitabh, Garfield, Julia, Jill, Idris & Ron

Neil, Caroline, Eve, Terry & Steve

78 November 2011 BTM

Sophie surrounded by Rebeccas

Sam, Mima, Bridget & Willy

Fernandes, Rajan & Madan

Tony, Jean & Jude

Stan & Katherine

George & Michael

Maria & Anita

Juliana & Costas

Pre-Screening : Sept. 8, 9, 15, 16 @ Pars Hotel | Sept. 22 @ Alliance Francais | Sept. 29, 30 @ Barcode Auditions : Oct 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 @ Virgin Megastores Eliminations : Oct 27, 28 | Semi Finals : Nov 4 | Grand Finals : Nov 11 @ Cultural Hall

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Back on the Horse BY: Les Paul If someone steals your watch you can always buy another one; but if someone steals your time, you can never replace it.

For Hassan bin Rashid Al Khalifa, these words reflect his desire to make the most of his time and accomplish a number of personal goals in the coming years, starting with the release of his first solo LP Jackie Oh No. Musical success is no stranger to the young shaikh, having already fronted two bands, Manakin and Brother Man Dude, who released an album of the same name in 2007 which achieved moderate success. This time around, however, Hassan is venturing out alone with perhaps the most personal material he has ever recorded.

Following his breakup with Sri Lankan beauty and Bollywood actress Jackie Fernandez, Hassan felt there was something missing in his life. Rather than dwelling on the past, the 35-year-old businessman-cum-equestrian channeled his pain into 13 inspired tracks reflecting the ups and downs of their ten-year relationship.

The result is a sincere, catchy and straightforward testament to a ‘really cool’ period of his life that he spent with a ‘really cool person’. For Hassan it’s a continuing source of inspiration and as he says, you can’t have the good without the bad.

“To me writing a song is just like telling a story, it can be about good times, bad times, love, life, current affairs, politics or anything; all you have to do is be truthful,” he says.

When he isn’t making music there’s nothing he loves more than horse riding. He’s an accomplished member of the Bahrain Equestrian team and very passionate about the sport.

Hassan first developed a strong interest in music in 1994 during a period when grunge music still ruled the world. “I kind of quit riding horses when I was 18 and so when I got into music, I got into it in a big way,” he says.

xxxxx I can’t separate horses and music, they work together to make me who I am. The riding makes me a better person and when I’m a better person I write better music so I hope to keep riding and keep writing too 80 November 2011 BTM

When he was a 20-year-old student at university in Tampa Florida his warm and laid-back nature quickly made him a people magnet. One of the people drawn to him was fellow Tampa student, Sunil Newani. Not long after that, the pair started playing together at parties, just informal acoustic covers but they always got a positive reaction.

After Sunil left in 1998, Hassan was undeterred and started to jam with local garage bands who were literally playing in garages or storage sheds, to improve his musical prowess, performing with anyone and everyone he could in order to make himself a better musician.

“One rainy night in 1999 I drove home with my windows down when I suddenly heard a shrieking guitar lick coming from a venue called the Rare Olive,” he reminisces with a large grin.

The sound he heard was coming from a band called Beanstalk, instrumental funk trio legends of Tampa. He started going to see their shows every week, befriending them and ultimately becoming their roadie. After a while they asked him to join the band and the newly-formed quartet played their first gig together in 2000, ironically at the Rare Olive in Tampa where Hassan first heard them play.

Things were going well for the band until 2002 when tragedy struck and Hassan’s father Shaikh Rashid bin Hassan Al Khalifa passed away. He returned home to the Kingdom to support his family during the difficult time and, for a while, his musical passion was put aside to focus on more pressing matters.

However, in 2004, he began to miss making music and was inspired to bring his former band mates to Bahrain to begin work on a new project. Later that year, Beanstalk merged into Brother Man Dude. After rekindling his love for horse riding, music took a backseat once again; well, more aptly, it took the passenger seat for a while.

Hassan currently splits his time between living in Bahrain and Holland and believes the balance of different cultures and settings has a positive effect on him as a person. “Holland is great for horse riding and it’s so peaceful there. My house is far enough away from things that I can enjoy the quiet, but close enough to everything I need,” he observes.

However, after a recent accident left him with several breaks and fractures he was devastated to be told he is unable to compete while his body heals.

“I haven’t been able to get back on the horse yet,” he says tenaciously, “but the doctors told me that hopefully by the beginning of November I can ride again at home. From then on they’ll give me a bi-weekly update on when I can compete again.

I really want to be ready for the Pan Arab games in December.”

When asked whether he prefers music or horses Hassan looked perplexed, “I can’t separate horses and music, they work together to make me who I am. The riding makes me a better person and when I’m a better person I write better music so I hope to keep riding and keep writing too.”

The New Album: Jackie Oh No The new album marks a bold new musical direction for the Bahraini rocker, who has come a long way since thrashing out Pearl Jam covers and distortion-heavy compositions. This is in no small part down to his new found maturity and focus; but it would be naïve to say it had nothing to do with the world class musicians who helped with the project.

These musicians include guitarist and his long-time musical collaborator Charlie Casey, Melvin Duffy (Robbie Williams) on slide guitar, Seamus Beaghen (Iggy Pop, Paul Weller, David Gray) on Hammond and piano and Ali Friend (Red Snapper, Beth Orton) on bass.

The songs for the new album were written in Holland, Spain and Bahrain and recorded in Peter Gabriel’s Real World studio in Wiltshire UK. The mixing was done here in Bahrain at 2Seas studio, which was originally built for Michael Jackson.

Jackie Oh No is available for digital download now.

E For more information visit www.hassanbinrashid.com.

BTM November 2011 81

spotlightthismonth

More than Just a Craft NATASHA BIRD We headed down to Yenji in the Amwaj Lagoon. A place where gratification is instant, but results last a lifetime!

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Yenji, in Amwaj, is a place like no other. Bringing you talent, handiwork and special materials all the way from Malaysia, this shop and craft studio offers you a taste of Asia that you can treasure in your own home for a lifetime. The recently-opened workshop, located on the first floor of the Lagoon, makes, sells and teaches the art of clay ornaments — specialising in the most beautiful and infinitely lifelike clay orchids.

For men, women and children alike — anyone who finds themselves with time on their hands and not enough excitement to fill it — Yenji is a place where you can while away the hours learning a new skill.

“We specialise in clay flower-making. The phalaenopsis orchid is an incredibly popular import to Bahrain. Many people are drawn to its beauty, but if you buy one it will likely last you only three months as we just do not have the climate for their survival,” says Ghazala Nasir Awan, who owns Yenji and is herself an instructor in this fine art.

“However, at Yenji, you can make one of your own! We teach you to use such fine detail and the clay moulds into such lifelike forms, that it will seem as though you have bought the real thing, only yours will last and last.”

After four years learning the art of this clay craft in Kuala Lumpur, Ghazala is determined to show Bahrain the beauty of its practise. Her studio is a place where people can come together and form a community, learning alongside each other.

It is a place where people can find friends or just spend time

doing something that focuses the mind. “My studio is for everyone; we welcome all ages and both genders. You can come to relax, to learn, to communicate and to create something special that you can treasure in your own home,” she says.

“I have no set workshop hours. Once I open at 10.30 in the morning and then it is up to you when you want to come and how long for. I do not charge by the hour, only for the teaching and the materials, so if you want to sit here all day working away then you will be my guest!”

The clay which Ghazala uses is derived from entirely natural ingredients, making it suitable for handling by anyone, even children as young as four years old. She ships in the materials directly from Malaysia and all of them are available to buy in-store. Ghazala is often called upon to carry out personalised orders, such as models with inscriptions or wedding cake decorations. Her work is beautiful and unlike anything else you will find in Bahrain.

bystanderthismonth

Porsche Club Reception Porsche Club Bahrain held its Annual General Meeting and a social evening for members and guests at Bushido Restaurant in Seef district last month

Shaikh Salman Al Khalifa

Fawaz Bokhova, Jaap Vaandrager, Firas Barbir, Ingrid Paul, Shaikh Salman Al Khalifa, Michiel Van Overberke & Fawaz Algosaibi

Munira & Raed Fakhi

Clark, Wendy, Jaap, Conny & Michiel

Deena, Faris & Dareen

Dr Maroan Mostafa Dina & Pradeep

Anis Hamdan, Tarek Baalbaki & Firas Barbir

Ingrid, Jaap & Hani

Nicolas & Budi

Thomas & Sue

French Speaking Association Reception The French Speaking Association of Bahrain (AFBH) held a 'Welcome Reception' at the residence of HE Yves Oudin, French Ambassador last month

HE Yves Oudin & Alan

Nadine, Igor & Ivan

HE Enrico Padula, Italian Ambassador, Milena & Michel

Salma & Lara

Christiane, Rim & Sandrine

Anna, Guillaume, Sophie & Haleema

Lydia & Anne Marie

Jan & Loic

Carmen & Frederic

84 November 2011 BTM

AFBH event organisers

Natalin & Sandrine

businessthismonth When? November 28-30 | Event? Engineering forum | Venue? Gulf Hotel

Housing a Conundrum Engineering solutions that can deliver affordable housing is the challenged to be debated at this year’s annual conference of leading engineers from around the region.

With a history of 15 annual successful meetings, The Gulf Engineering forum has provided a highly professional and interactive platform for engineers, specialists and prominent industry experts to debate ideas and visions on a range of topics.

This year’s forum calls upon international experts to provide solutions to the region’s affordable housing dilemma. Over the years, the Gulf region has seen a dramatic rise in prices and the housing and real estate industry could possibly have been hit the hardest.

The forum chairman, Dheya Tawfiqi, outlines the event’s focus, “Having a proper house is an essential need in our life.

It will provide the security and stability for the family and as a result this will reflect on the society and its economic productivity and social stability.”

The rewards for society as a result of inexpensive housing will be discussed in great detail. The stability from a house within one’s price range both supports the occupants, the community at large and the country’s economical development.

For these reasons, the forum’s main goal is to discuss the strategic studies and the up-to-date research and technology that is related to housing projects.

Also this month

This discussion makes it possible for all participants of the GCC countries to assess and evaluate the issues and select the optimal solutions that meet the standards of the Gulf.

The three-day event will see experts discuss five topics in detail surrounding the issue of affordable housing; the infrastructure, laws and regulations for this type of housing and how to apply smart technology in building, especially through technologies relating to energy and water saving.

The forum’s main objective is to educate, and a short course will also be offered titled, ‘The Low Cost Housing Economics Crisis and Alternatives’. Instructed by associate professors at the department of civil and architectural engineering at the University of Bahrain, the course highlights innovative methods for analysing the housing shortage and applying fresh approaches to housing economics and urban strategies. The short course will be held on November 27 and 28.

The Bahrain Society of Engineers (BSE) is hosting the event for the third time. “The forum has always been a highly significant event in the yearly calendar; serving as an indicator to assess the situation in the engineering sectors. We have always seen it as an important annual forum for the researchers and specialists from both governmental entities and private agencies from different parts of the region. They meet to discuss various engineering issues they face, so they can make timely course corrections and plans for the future,” says Abdul Majeed Al Gassab, BSE president.

E Call 17 727-100.

86 x Entrepreneur - 88 x Interview - 90 x Spotlight

Global Initiative When? November 21-23 Event? World Islamic banking conference Venue? Gulf Hotel This annual gathering of international Islamic finance industry leaders aims to fasttrack global growth opportunities by addressing new opportunities.

This conference has been at the forefront of the global Islamic finance industry for almost two decades now and this year expects to see 1200 international industry leaders from more than 50 countries participating. The theme for this year’s conference, “Competing for Global Growth”, will explore cross-border transactions, the access to new markets and new product creation — all to boost the current market. Various high profile key-note speakers will lead discussions encouraging all present to voice their thoughts.

E Call 43 431-200.

BTM November 2011 85

businessentrepreneur

A Cleaner Tomorrow in addition to functioning as electronic curtains. The solar panels harness the energy generated into batteries that can meet up to 20 per cent of a building’s power requirements.

Smart lights with built-in motion sensors, and harmonisation of power supply within a building, can cut power wastage substantially, while water from the central air-conditioner can be directed towards irrigation, cleaning and car washing.

While the response from corporate sector is lukewarm, Ahmed is impressed with the environmental awareness demonstrated by the public sector and private individuals, who are coming forward for his solutions. A majority of the vBuildings clientele in Bahrain comprises government departments and ministries.

In the three years since inception, the company has expanded operations to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Egypt.

xxxxx We’d love to help people become officially environment friendly and make it accessible and affordable for everyone

Ahmed Bayumi

Electricity may cost next to nothing in this part of the world; that’s no reason to take it for granted says green entrepreneur Ahmed Bayumi.

86 November 2011 BTM

The Middle East region prides itself on being the world’s top energy producer. Likewise, it makes no apology for being the biggest waster of energy, with around 40 per cent of the electricity produced in the region being inappropriately consumed.

In Bahrain, electricity is highly subsidised when compared to neighbouring Dubai or Qatar, and this leads to an unnecessarily high consumption and a huge drain on resources.

“This wastage costs the government a lot of money. We saw the need for smart grid technology in the market, but no one was taking up the challenge,” says Ahmed Bayumi.

Quitting his job with a Malaysian technology company, Ahmed, along with his partner Mohamed Al Radhi, launched vBuildings Co. in 2008. The aim of the business was to introduce smart grid technology that involves automation and control, guaranteeing power savings of between 30 to 40 per cent.

The duo have taken up an ambitious target of converting properties within the region into green buildings that consume less electricity and water, produce less waste and generate around 15-20 per cent of their power requirements.

To do this, the glass surface of buildings is replaced with solar films that are cost effective and act as power generators

Smart initiatives Enthused by the government response to this technology, company promoters are planning a host of initiatives over the coming year. vBuildings will participate in a ‘Green Bahrain’ campaign that envisages the conversion of all government buildings in Bahrain into eco-friendly properties.

Ahmed is also working on a ‘Smart Streets’ crusade that will involve the use of smart grid technology in traffic management, public signboards, municipal and security services. The use of LED technology and digital ballasts in street lights, instead of the conventional lamp posts, will cut down electricity consumption by 30 per cent, he believes.

If automation and control is applied at the grid level, it can rationalise consumption and consumer behaviour, making the network more demand-oriented. Ahmed feels vBuildings can upgrade existing grids to smart grids with a minimum investment.

“We don’t have a buy-and-sell business model, but work only through partnerships. We’re willing to cover part of the investment required for a share in the client’s savings in the long run. That way, our customers are exposed to very little risk,” he says.

More than just a clean business, Ahmed would like the company to be a think tank in compliance of environmental guidelines. Going forward, he aspires for a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation so that they can begin to certify utilities according to international standards.

“We’d love to help people become officially environment friendly and make it accessible and affordable for everyone,” he says.

businessinterview

Committed to Excellence xxxxx We’ve seen substantial growth in the market on a monthto-month basis and the trend continues into the end of this year and early next year In existence for 30 years now, the hotel has a long tradition of hospitality in Bahrain. Despite construction on the main highway, the property continues to enjoy the best sea-views for a city hotel. “We also remain the first hotel you see as you’re driving out of the airport,” he points out.

Panos, who is half Swiss, half Greek, has held various management positions at hotels across the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and Africa over the last 20 years.

Bahrain’s hospitality sector, he notes, is breathing much easier than when he first landed in the Kingdom in June this year. “We’ve seen substantial growth in the market on a month-to-month basis and the trend continues into the end of this year and early next year.”

Panos Panagis

An expansive renovation exercise is coming to a close at the Diplomat Radisson Blu. New general manager Panos Panagis gives us a peek into the refreshed property.

88 November 2011 BTM

Sporting a glistening steel grey facade, the new-look Diplomat Radisson Blu Residence & Spa has a crisp feel to it.

Construction at the hotel is nearing completion as a threeyear-long facelift exercise is drawing to an end. The hotel boasts a fresh facade and a new entrance, while finishing touches are being given to the new 27-storey office tower; a new 500-bay car park is also ready for use. Panos Panagis, the new general manager, is excited to take up reins at the upgraded property.

“I’ve had a long-held fascination for the Middle East. What’s more, I was very impressed with the commitment of owners, National Hotels Company, who’ve continued to invest in the product,” he says, explaining his reason for taking up the present assignment.

A fresh spirit Panos believes the hotel’s rebranding exercise of 2008 brought in a tangible change in customer experience.

“We remain committed to 100 per cent customer satisfaction.

Everything a guest wants should be accomplished as much as possible,” he says.

Panos is unveiling Al Fanar, a contemporary meeting and events venue on the rooftop that boasts stunning sea views all across.

The hotel has hired a new executive chef, the German Raimund Braun to give a shake-up on the food and beverage side. “The idea is to go back to the basics. We’re breaking down all our menus and improving every single item and ingredients to make outstanding food,” he reveals.

In the run-up to the year-end, a host of events including Swiss theme nights and Indian and Thai food specials will be introduced. Panos is also working with hotels within the Rezidor Group to bring in entertainers, speakers and personalities from abroad and create specialised theme events.

“We’ve made substantial investment in our staff, changing not only their skills but also improving their technical ability.

We’ve been able to infuse a “Yes, I can” work philosophy, that’s part of our brand and has been responsible for the growth of Rezidor Hotel Group into a 400-hotel company in a span of ten years,” he declares.

Going forward, the market will remain competitive, but happily, the international clientele is showing interest in Bahrain.

“Enquiries are coming in for meetings and events and hopefully, this will keep Bahrain on the tourism map as one of the world’s most important destinations,” he hopes.

businessspotlight

Diamonds are Forever Alison Coldridge An increasing amount of high-end jewellers are making their mark in the Kingdom, verified as De Beers Diamond Jewellers inaugurates its first store in Bahrain.

Francois Delage

90 November 2011 BTM

Without a doubt, Moda Mall houses the crème de la crème of luxury fashion and jewellery brands, the latest of which is the French diamond expert label De Beers. Lavishly simplistic yet oozing style, De Beers Bahrain is everything you would expect from the infamous brand, and all options are offered to the clientele, as CEO Francois Delage outlines.

“When I started with the company two years ago, I had the view to execute the brand’s initial vision — to install De Beers as the diamond jewellery brand of choice. I wanted to expand upon the name, bring inspiring designs to the client and constantly provide only the most exceptional quality diamonds,” says Francois.

With 40 stores in 12 markets worldwide, the next store opening was carefully considered, and Bahrain was an obvious next choice to the brand. However, there are three important targets that must be reached before landing on a country of placement.

“You must find the right partners. Without this, De Beers would not be cared for properly in each country, and in Bahrain we found this in AJM Kooheji, due to their expertise in luxury retail,” notes Francois. “Secondly, the location must be perfect and we found this in Moda Mall. Finally, and most importantly, we must have clientele already existing in the country of choice plus new clientele to please.”

Prior to opening in Bahrain, De Beers were aware of the increasing Bahraini client in other stores worldwide, and so it seemed a natural decision to settle here. “As an important hub in the Middle East, Bahrain was the obvious choice after opening in Dubai,” Francois confirms.

Aside from the growth of the company on an international

xxxxx I am constantly looking for other places to open — in the long term I am confident we will open other stores in this part of the world level, it is clear that Francois has great passion and drive for his role and the diamond industry in general.

“Diamonds are a work of art in their own right and it’s a very intriguing industry. I was told upon joining De Beers that I will never fail to feel that strong emotion when looking at a diamond, and to this day that remains true,” Francois adds.

De Beers brand themselves on selling the most beautiful diamonds on the market, an idea that certainly is backed by the company’s absolute belief and knowledge in what they are selling.

Bahrain clients have no need to worry, as De Beers will not compromise on new collections here, as is the case in any of the stores worldwide. Francois confirms that Bahrain will have the most up-to-date launches as well as retaining all of the classic lines.

But De Beers will not stop at Bahrain. Francois recognises how crucial the Middle East has become in recent years, “I am constantly looking for other places to open — in the long term I am confident we will open other stores in this part of the world,” he confirms.

businessspotlight

CHOPARD

The Wait is Over!

Natasha Bird It’s been seven years in the making, but the Chopard boutique is finally open for business. Caroline Gruoise-Scheufele gives us a taste of the treasures that lie within.

E Call 17 520-088.

92 November 2011 BTM

Chopard has always been synonymous with class, innovation and excellence in the world of high-end jewellery. And, as we all know, these are attributes that the Middle East loves in a precious gem retailer. We’ve been waiting years to see the Chopard boutique open in Moda Mall and the time has finally come to set foot inside its glittering walls.

The opening of the Chopard boutique was a marvellous event, full of harp players, gorgeous models showcasing the latest collections and tasty treats. Luckily, Caroline GruosiScheufele, Chopard co-president, was able to spare a few minutes to talk to Bahrain This Month about the new boutique and the latest collections.

“It’s the longest boutique project we’ve ever had, but it has been worth it. During this time we have changed our concept — this is a new boutique look, which was initially developed two and a half years ago. The first one with this design opened in Madison Avenue, New York City, but Bahrain is the first country in the Middle East to have the new style,” explains Caroline.

We also asked Caroline what we can expect to see in the boutique. “In terms of the collections that you will find inside the boutique — we have the Animal World collection, which we brought out last year to celebrate our 150th anniversary.

Within our high-end jewellery we have a new range called Temptations. This consists of a lot of colours and a lot of

pieces with semi-precious stones. I have worked a lot with semi-precious stones, so it has been a delight to produce this collection.”

Finally, we asked Caroline about her personal passion for jewellery and what she thinks it means to the women that buy it. “It is something that will last forever. You can enjoy it for years and then you can pass it on to the next generation for them to wear too,” she says. “Apart from the pleasure of wearing it, it is also somehow a way of investing part of your money. Even in times of recent crisis, these stones have retained their value. You can invest in good quality jewellery, but you can enjoy it at the same time.”

“Chopard is all about being happy. We want our jewellery to bring pleasure to the owner. This is why we have the happy collection — the happy diamond, the happy sports watches and the rest of the happy jewellery,” Caroline tells us.

“Chopard jewellery means movement, liberty and freedom.

This is at the core of our company and this is why our designs are so successful.”

bystanderthismonth

Ina Schenk Birthday Party Ina Schenk celebrated her birthday with family & friends at her residence in Janabiya last month

Ian, Des, Ian & Gerard

Muqsit, Ina & Saba

Taco, Ina & Paz

Sunny & Bessi

Ian, Koos, Georgia & Gerard

Jenny, Ina & Sam

Charu, Giuliana & Maria

Gerard & Joseph

Anja & Hilde

Jeff, Brad & Haifaa

Herman, Sonam & Andy

Donna & Susanne

Mala & Ina

Abdul Al Kaabi

Salah

PGIS Golf Day Pan Gulf Industrial Systems (PGIS) held its 5th annual golf day at the Awali Golf Club last month

Adam & Ziggy

Ron, Phil & David Bailey

Mathew tees off

Susan, Dave, Nicky & John

Tony & Christian

Martin & Nasser

David, Jeffery & Anil

Julie & Ron

Adel Al Gaoud

Gerry & Alison

BTM November 2011 93

bystanderthismonth

Ibn Al Nafees Celebrates World Heart Day The staff of the Ibn Al Nafees Hospital held a cake cutting ceremony to celebrate World Heart Day at the hospital premises last month

Ema, Adala, Huda, Elka & Cathie

Ali, Derek Walsh, CEO, Dr Abdulnabi, Cathie, Huda & Adel Al Ali at the cake cutting

Staff members of Ibn Al Nafees celebrate World Heart Day

Turkey Delights 12-24 November 2011 - At Le Jardin and The Exchange Restaurant & Pub

94 November 2011 BTM

The K Hotel Darts Tournament The K Hotel, in Juffair, held a darts tournament at the hotel's Champions Lounge last month

Albert & Franz

Sahar & Fatima

Fathi & Bassim Jad

Lucas & Markus

Sadiq & Aref

Robin, Robert, Albert & Ansel

Salaha & Talal

Luisa & Jenan

Andrew & Maribel

Robert

Hamad

Ayman

Hart

Louie

Bassim

BTM November 2011 95

bystanderthismonth

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Golf Day The inaugural Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Golf Day was held at the Royal Golf Club’s Montgomerie championship course last month. Over 100 members took part in the stableford competition which was won by New Royal Golf Club member Simon Brebner

Stephan Kaminsk, Kempinski Grand general manager

Florian & Ibrahim

David & Ebrahim

Nooh makes a putt

Wayne & Murtaz

Maria & Manilyn

96 November 2011 BTM

Ashraf & Till

Hillary

Martin

Catherine, Martina, Simon Brebner, winner, Yasmeen & Vivian

Derrek

James

Bob in action

Joe Driscoll At JJ's London-based American artist Joe Driscoll, winner of the UK Indy Award (Best Solo Act), performed his orginal take on the one-man band at JJ's Irish Restaurant last month Joe Driscoll

Drew & Evie

Shane, Justin & Patrick Eimear & Emma

Kelly & Bobby

Pregith, Rajni & Kunal

Khatija, Camille, Sonali, Lubov, Susan & Sharina

Emily & Freya

Sean & Mickey with Lubna & Rozan

Said & Amar

Andrey, Yulia, Tanya & Slava

Alex & Christa

BTM November 2011 97

bystanderthismonth

Irish Society Member's Day The Bahrain Irish Society’s held its annual Members Day event at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club (RFC), Saar. The event featured face-painting, games and Gaelic football activities for children, exhibition Gaelic football games between the Arabian Celts men’s and ladies’ teams and a host of traditional Irish musical performers

Paul, Tony & Mike

Mehdi, Michel & Mike

98 November 2011 BTM

Caroline, Eammon, Mary, Ann, Gavin & Aisling

Anneme, Danny, Carla, Louis & Johnny

Aisling, Aoife & Paul

Mary, Arlene & Vincent

Daire, Cial & Mary

Jon, Mona & Talal

Isa & Rania

Callum & Gavin

Scott & John

Greek Concert Featuring Danae Eleni & Kimon Pallikaropoulos Danae Eleni and Kimon Pallikaropoulos performed songs by Theodorakis, Xadzidakis and 19th century Greek composers and the Bahrain premiere of Ravel's "Greek songs". The event featured a product launch of the Mythos Olive prior to the concert which was held at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art last month

Glenn & Melissa

George, Lilian, Tassos, Kimon, Danae, George, Costis & Annie

Kimon & Danae perform at the concert

Stefan, Cristina, Alexia, Elena, Maher, Abdelhamid & Daniela

Kostantinos & Lilian Pallikaropoulos

David, Barbara, Ken & Pauline

Samy Ibrahim & Fatima

Diana

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Nescafé ‘Show ‘Em What You Got’ Auditions Auditions for the Nescafé ‘Show ‘Em What You Got’ continued throughout last month on a weekly basis, where the judges decided who went forward to the two-part elimination stage. In its fourth year, the event features five categories; singing, dancing, musical instruments, most talented performer and most popular performer. The auditions were held at the Virgin Megastore, Bahrain City Centre

Baraa, Ahmed, Jalal & Zuhair

Mustafa, Ahmed, Murad & Fadhel

Osama

Fawaz, Hassan, Zuhair, Mustafa & Hamad

Ahmed, Baraa & Zuhair

Hassan & Fawaz

Abdulla

Sonia & Muneera

Alexandra, Sara & Sara

Yousif

100 November 2011 BTM

Adel, Jalal & Hassan

Faisal

Khalid & Sulaiman

Mohammed & Ahmed

ZCCB- El Yowm Productions team

Sara, Annie & Sara

Faris

Omran & Ann

Lorna & Arlene

Warda, Sam, Layla & Jess

Beat, Zero, Robert & Mustafa

Murad, Fadel & Hamed

downtimethismonth

Rihanna

Embracing Bare Essentials Elma Bartholomew Whoever said clothes are a basic necessity will soon think twice. Celebrities are set to prove everyone wrong as they shed all on screen.

You can’t say she didn’t warn you. The whole world has heard her sing it — she may be bad, but she’s perfectly good at it.

The sexy diva hasn’t seen a day unnoticed by media and fans.

Since its all praises, it’s obvious she doesn’t mind. But there was someone who did notice the dark temptation recently and he didn’t seem so pleased. In fact, he even asked her to leave the location and to cover up while she’s at it!

We can’t be sure what came as a huger blow; a farmer’s audacity to shoo a star away or the truth that he had no idea who Rihanna was.

It isn’t so startling when you consider the kind of attire she sported, or more precisely, the lack of it.

The incident did not go awry and didn’t affect the filming either. But it got me thinking how nudity on screen doesn’t come across as shocking or even ‘exclusive’ any more. We’ve seen J Lo go topless in her video of My Love Don’t Cost a Thing. At least, they justified it to be unplanned and utterly spontaneous on the part of the singer/actress.

Pink practically showed up naked on stage once flaunting a transparent body suit of white masking tape and no more than a few sparkling jewels. We hear Lady Gaga went ballistic Also this month

because her costume consultant didn’t get to it first.

But, hey, she came back strong, didn’t she? I doubt there’s another lady who can make a whole outfit out of police tape like she did; and more importantly, pull it off with as much ease. Apparently, in gaga-land, it’s Halloween all through the year — at least, that’s the only explanation I have to the hideous costumes she pulls out of her wardrobe.

While the women in the music industry are busy playing peek-a-boo, the men on TV have taken it a step further and are ‘going all out’.

The most recent to make it on the list is Ashton Kutcher who bared all for Two and a Half Men — the sitcom, of course. It’s quite a way to outdo fired star Charlie Sheen (hardly a challenge), but it’s kind of overdone when you realise Kutcher has spent most of his sitcom debut sans clothes.

We get it; he’s supposed to be an unbelievably dreamy. But please, put some clothes on before we can count those ribs.

I think we’ll see more of those censor bars considering his comment on dropping his trousers for The Ellen DeGeneres show, “It’s getting a lot of attention, so I just figured I’m going to do everything nude from now on.” He seems to be sticking by his word. It’s definitely getting those ratings up (which is sort of the plan, I’m guessing).

Have we grown immune to nudity or have we simply lost all expectations and moved from class to crass?

Either way, the days aren’t far away when censorship will turn into a myth.

102 Gadgets x 106 Music x 109 Computer games x 112 Websites x 114 Satellite TV

New Panorama

Imagine spending the time to take 36 perfectly spaced photographs and then later combining them into a full 360 degree panoramic image.

Now do the same with the toss of a football-sized ball.

Slimming Down

Asus officially has launched its slick brushed aluminium ZenBooks. It is super-thin; 0.11 inches at its thinnest point and 0.35 inches at its thickest, the thinnest notebook available.

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downtimegadgets

An Electric World Indulge your inner gadget geek with our pick of the most intriguing, innovative and inventive devices that have recently been launched.

Camera subterfuge

Now that the iPhone 4S has a camera that rivals even the best DSLRs, you might as well ensure it looks the part. Dress yours up with these fun and protective cases and skins to make it look like the real deal.

Editors pick!

Extra space

Complete with a password protection function to ensure secure use, Sony’s external hard drive delivers up to three times faster transfer speeds. It doesn’t look too shabby either with a slim and stylish design that is available in three colours.

Power up

Just like we sometimes need a strong caffeine boost to get us through the day, so do our gadgets.

This clever little ‘coffee cup’ is ideal for placing in your car’s cup holder and charging your electronic necessities on the move.

The doodler Samsung’s plus-size Galaxy Note boasts an impressive 5.3 inches of HD Super AMOLED goodness, incredible speed and a long-lasting battery.

The stylus is great fun and means you can decorate all of your friends’ Facebook photos with moustaches…

102 November 2011 BTM

Toasty viewing This handy gadget saves many a burnt, therefore wasted, piece of toast. Totally transparent, you can see how your bread is a’toasting and make sure your toast is just the way you like it.

Retro shots

If you relish in the classic look achieved by a Polaroid then revel in this restored Polaroid SX-70 — the accordion folding camera is back in action and uses the Impossible Project’s Polaroid film.

Watertight documentary

For all avid water babies, a waterproof video camera is the best way to capture those under-the-sea moments. Kodak’s version is stocked with 18MB of internal memory, a 2x digital zoom and best of all, a low price!

Woodland sounds

A Classic Remake

We’ve seen so many ‘different’ docking stations, but this tops them all and is actually unique. Designed to look like part of your living space’s décor, it will blend in and charge your iPhone/iPad/iPod quickly.

If you fancy something different from the camera brands everyone has, look to this old school German brand, Leica. It has launched a special edition of the D-Lux 5 Titanium, featuring a 10.1 megapixel lens and a very sleek style.

Neat freak This miniature laundry pod is the answer to every quick-clean clothing dilemma. With no need for electricity, you can use the pod anywhere, anytime, and it just takes ten minutes for ultra cleanliness.

Multi-tasking tool This android-powered LG DoublePlay smartphone from T-Mobile is destined to hit shelves this month.

It features a splitkeyboard and, uniquely, two touch screens — you can check out a web page whilst replying to an email at the same.

BTM November 2011 103

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Splash Rock’n Fashion Show At the ninth edition of the Splash fashion show, the brand channeled the diversity of styles that the Rock ‘n’ Roll influence has brought to highstreet fashion. UAE’s finest attended Splash fashion’s big night out where 45 international models presented a perfect mix of the season’s trends interwoven with the element of Rock ‘n’ Roll to over 3000 fashion lovers. The event was held at the Madinat Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Japanese sublime

One of the models

Renuka, Micky & George

Shaikh Hassan & Jo

Raza & friend

Mohammed, Natasha & Zafar

Rahul, Gaurav & Nisha

Smoking hot'angel & friend

Smug

Ursula - 'the flasher'

Models strike a pose

Club Buffalo 1st Anniversary Club Buffalo in California Hotel, Juffair, held a party to celebrate its 1st anniversary last month

Cutting the celebratory cake

Tim & Al

Ebrahim & Ashok

Rea & Walter

Sandeep, Mukherjee, Antony, Rana, Shantharam Shetty, Bryan & Thomas

Rahul. Elma & Vijith

Hakim, Nibu, Ashalatha, Shantharam, Hemchandra, Sijo & Antony

Antony, Marlize & Thomas

Ashleigh & Marlize

Jaja, Fraklee & Toeny

104 November 2011 BTM

downtimeyoungachiever

It’s Not a Game!

When we see a hard core gamer, we’re reminded of geeks and visions of time wasted on needless activities.

But for Ahmed ELMA BARTHOLOMEW Al Nasheet this is his job, and he absolutely loves it.

You might not be familiar with the name Ahmed Al Nasheet, but you might have heard of Dvlz Game, Bahrain’s own online community and YouTube channel that reviews video games. He is the brain behind this venture, which was also the first to give opinions in Arabic for a Middle-Eastern audience.

By reaching an untapped sector, he found a great fan base almost immediately and, two years after its inception, his channel has nearly six million views to its credit. With subscribers from around the globe, he began to put up his clips in English as well, making it the first to do so.

“I started Dvlz Game to meet the needs of the gamers of our region which is a larger crowd than you can believe,” Ahmed explains. “Here, you can find everything from news and top 10 to reviews and gameplays.”

What began as one man’s hobby is now a full-fledged business with his own team to support him as it is no longer one but five different channels that he needs to sustain. At 24, Ahmed is not only the first Arab to partner with Machinima, the dominant video entertainment network for gamers around the world showcasing gameplay, original shows, trailers and news, he is also the first Arab in his field of work to officially partner with YouTube.

A graphic designer, video editor and sketch artist, this multifaceted Bahraini is also an event organiser known for his

game launches and gaming festivals conducted in and around the Kingdom.

“I’ve reached my goals much before I thought I would. Now I intend to take it to the next level by introducing the concept of gaming leagues to Bahrain with official sponsors like EA Sports with whom I’d discussed matters with recently in Dubai,” Ahmed states.

What makes him so successful is his dedication and passion toward the channels. He is constantly updating himself with the latest news and almost immediately ‘shares’ his opinion. He is even sponsored by several firms and has the power of giveaways. But nothing comes easy in life.

“When you do something out of the ordinary, you are welcoming a lot of haters. And when you’re managing something that runs purely on browsers’ affiliation, this can’t be too good. But it can be overcome,” Ahmed admits. “But the biggest challenge in my business is the existence of hackers.

Even more dangerous is trust in the wrong people.”

The community has brought this gamer the realisation that you don’t always do things for yourself. According to him you enjoy more in sharing and giving others the chance to experience what you just did.

E Visit www.youtube.com/dvlzgame.

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downtimemusic

A Glorious Life A third of the Jonas Brothers, an American Idol from a decade ago and the comeback of a goth star — find out who impresses and who turns out to be a recipe for distress.

Evanescence

Evanescence

OF A TH LB E U M M ON TH

RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY?

Goth metal has always been a niche genre that very few artists have found ways to give it a Top 40 appeal. Evanescence has pulled off that trick with two multi-platinum albums in the past, both of which unite loud, heavy guitars and drums with the ethereal voice of singer Amy Lee. There were always two sides to the coin when it came to the band’s sound — the full-throated melodic hard rock side that first put the band on the map and Amy’s penchant for using her powerful voice in quietly elegant ways. After five long years, that tradition continues here with the new album.

WORTH A LISTEN?

For fans of Evanescence’s earlier work or the genre in general, there is a lot to like on this new record. The instrumental work sounds different owing to the changes in the line-up over the years. But while it’s a different equilibrium, it’s not one which the music ultimately suffers from.

The first track roars to life with Amy belting over a drum beat and then a blistering guitar riff setting the tone for much of what follows. Evanescence made it to the top of the iTunes rock charts proving this one was worth waiting for.

VERDICT: The self-titled new release of the goth metal star proves she still rocks.

TOP TRACKS: My Heart is Broken, The Change, Lost in Paradise.

New Found Glory

Radiosurgery Perhaps the most consistent band in the history of poppunk, their seventh album is exactly what you think it is — predictable. And why would they ever change?

They’re one of the most loved bands in the genre since their first release 12 years ago.

New Found Glory has too many good records to call this one their best. It’s better to concentrate on what’s in front of you — a hard-hitting, purely enjoyable album.

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Kelly Clarkson

Stronger A master of the power-pop-rock anthem, Kelly is at her most heartfelt in this up-tempo album.

Like her hits, it’s liberating and worryingly addictive including the earworm chorus and impressive adlibbing.

Joe Jonas

Fast Life Much unlike its title, this release by the prettiest Jonas brother is a slow killer. In his attempt to ride the contemporary R&B train, Joe sounds robotic and mediocre.

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Banu Birthday Party Banu celebrated her birthday with a number of her friends with a party at DĂŠjĂ Vu Restaurant & Lounge located near the Gulf Hotel

Priya, Adnan, Banu, Deepak, Amit & Jasmin

Banu & Almas

DJ Freeze & Earl

Max, Justin & Sayed

Jyoti & Banu

Jyoti & Bharat

Banu & Adnan

Adnan & Sapna

Jimmy & Paul

Banu & Amanda

Mudassar, Zaid & Salman

VRS, Sam & Rockstar

Pam & Luther Farewell Party Ingrid & Younis hosted a dinner party to bid farewell to their friends Pam & Luther at their residence in Shahrakkan last month

Ingrid, Luther, Pam & Younis

108 November 2011 BTM

Christina & Younis

Pam & Filipo

Hussain

Alex & Yahya

Marjan & Luther

Ingrid, Luther, Pam & Younis with friends

Dorothy & Khalid

downtimecomputergames

Battle of War Games Ahmed Al Nasheet Two highly anticipated war-themed games have been released; each is packed with enhanced gaming technology and stunning graphics — but who will win the war?

This and last month have seen the launch of two incredibly high-profile video games; Call of Duty’s Modern Warfare 3 and Battlefield 3. Aside from the likeness that both are FPS (first person shooter) games, there aren’t many similarities between the two except that both contain maximum soldiers and guns and are highly enjoyable to play.

To summarise Battlefield 3, it is a complete cinematic real-war experience, enclosed in a game. Shells kick up dust all around, bullets deflect off the rocks ahead and F-16s zoom overhead making you feel as if you are almost living the war in the third instalment of the long-running franchise. The creators, Dice Studio, used the power of the Frostbite 2 game engine technology, which gives stunning and realistic graphics unlike any seen in games of the same type before.

The map designs are perfect for air and land, and change with every game mode you play and the massive destruction capability, surround sound and exquisite graphics are incredibly lifelike, increasing your gaming experience to new levels. You will see the bullets whiz by and walls fall down in precise detail and explosions will almost throw you and your controller to the ground. Overall, Battlefield 3 feels more alive and interactive than ever before. >>>

>>> On the other hand, Modern Warfare 3 is being released this month and will be available to play on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. Set to rival Battlefield 3, it has been manufactured to take the console shooter multiplayer experience to the next level. The game’s creators, Infinity Ward studios, have introduced gamers to ‘killstreak’ rewards along with the ability to level up and unlock increasingly better rewards.

Rather than just slightly updating the previous version of Modern Warfare, the third version is instead dramatically different, as the developers have taken on a lot of the fan feedback and implemented the suggested changes successfully. The revamped points system is a welcome change and the ‘kill confirmed’ mode certainly has achieved positive reactions from those who have tried it so far.

Infinity Ward partnered with another studio for this project — the talented Sledge Hammer studio — who seem to have given this franchise a new level of intensity.

It was a real risk to change an already successful game so radically, but Modern Warfare 3 is different and fresh which makes it very addictive indeed.

It’s really a war between two giants EA and Activision; which game of blood, sweat and glory is calling out to you? Whichever you choose, one thing is for sure — both challenge any action film with their cinematic appearance and ability to keep you hooked.

Ace Combat Assault Horizon The ultimate combat flight simulation game is back and this time it has undergone a big make-over which has given it a ‘Modern Warfare’ look and feel.

Ace Combat has always had a sense of realism and details but with this new installment it turned the series to a pure arcade experience.

Mortal Kombat Trilogy If you miss the 80's Arcade experience, the MK Trilogy is the ideal game for to relinquish your desire. The game includes the first three MK arcade games, which packed all together, make all of the fighting players in the world gooey with all the memories every time they will hear “finish him!”

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downtimecomputergames

Kick Off TH GA E M M E ON TH

Everyone’s talking about it. There’s no reason we shouldn’t. Yes, we’re addicted to the latest release from FIFA just like the rest of you gamers.

Batman: Arkham City (PS3, Wii)

OF

It might take you a while to realise it, but this game is highly addictive.

It boasts new counter attacks including the ability to take out several enemies at once and to use nearly every gadget in battle with a hot key system. Expect to play this game more often — it gets better each time.

Gears of War 3 3 (Xbox 360)

FIFA 12 (Xbox 360) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

FIFA won the reputation as the finest football video game, but we all know laurels don’t last forever. With annual franchises, everyone’s waiting for a pitfall. Thankfully, FIFA 12 wasn’t an innovation for the sake of it. It has returned with a glamorous array of new gameplay features and innumerable tweaks proving to be substantially different from the last.

If you played GOW1 which featured in-depth action experience and GOW2 which provided the aftermath story, you will definitely want to try out the third instalment. GOW3 is the most epic action-filled experience of them all — so get ready for this game from EPIC studios.

GRAPHICS:

Presentation is one of FIFA 12’s many strengths. Everything is slick and luxurious, from the team selection screens to the brilliantly-polished graphics that preface each match and it remains unrivalled in terms of authenticity.

The likenesses of the top players are at times uncanny. Stadiums and lighting effects help sell the illusion. The player impact engine simulates player collisions with unparalleled realism. Occasionally it produces anatomically-improbable encounters.

GAMEPLAY:

Tactical defending poses the biggest challenge to veteran fans of the series. Replacing the ‘pressurise’ defensive system, this is a more sophisticated approach. If done correctly, you’ll be able to force mistakes. In FIFA 12, tackling is, as it should be, a last defence. This heightened realism is augmented further by precision dribbling. When mastered, it is an indispensable part of the gameplay. It enables you to control the ball skilfully in close quarters. The only potential problem is the inability of referees to correctly interpret sophisticated collisions.

VERDICT: Matches unfold with a more authentic tempo, taking it much closer to the real thing.

110 November 2011 BTM

Dark Souls (PS3) Be prepared to die — a lot! Death is everything in Dark Souls. Survival is in itself a tremendous accomplishment in this game.

Exactly because your chances of success are so slim, each victory feels monumental. If you just play games for fun, this isn’t for you.

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Beautiful Boy RATING: DIRECTED BY: Shawn Ku STARRING: Michael Sheen, Maria Bello, Kyle Gallner

THE PLOT:

Bill (Sheen) and Kate (Bello) hopelessly try to find some hint of an explanation after finding out that their only son committed a mass shooting at his university before taking his own life. Their already strained marriage is tested as they realise all they have left with each other is their shared grief and confusion. This life-altering event forces the couple to face their feelings of guilt, rage, blame, self-discovery and hope so that they can finally see each other and their chance for happiness again.

WORTH WATCHING? This isn’t a movie you watch when

you’re hoping for a relaxed evening. With a sensitive topic as this, it’s handled quite carefully. Beautiful Boy is an eye-opener. If you haven’t known yourself to be empathetic; you’ll soon be as you’re walked through their struggle through the funeral, the media onslaught and the awkward pity from relatives and friends. This movie begins where most movies end.

VERDICT: For those who enjoy slow-paced films inspired by true stories, this is a must-watch.

Zookeeper When a movie stars Kevin James, it’s almost undoubtedly a romantic comedy. So, there’s no surprise there.

And when his co-stars are talking animals, you can be sure you’re in for a hilarious time. A feel-good, easy watch, this flick doesn’t disappoint.

Scream 4 The only moments you’ll be screaming is each time you spot Courteney Cox with her uncanny resemblance of Chucky in Child’s Play. A horror movie is only successful when you can’t predict what’s going to happen.

Scream 4 doesn’t have that advantage.

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downtimewebsites

On a Laughing Riot OF

TE TH SI ON EB M W THE

On a busy day, everybody’s striving for a lighter moment to stay stress-free and happy.

Here are three websites that can keep you smiling all through the day.

9gag.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

9gag is the simplest way for everyone to publish, collect and share humour. You can create your portfolio or collection effortlessly. Here, you can view a range of comic strips, witty comments and hilarious pictures. The idea is to keep you laughing and not to have to hunt for a reason to. It’s a compilation of everything, well, fun. Pictures, jokes, movie clips, comic strips; they’ve got something for everyone.

THE GOOD:

Unlike ordinary funny sites which are full of disturbing ads, 9gag aims at spreading happiness to the world in an elegant way.

Everything is a single click away. You can share, comment and like. It is a time-saver, believe it or not. Nothing fancy, nothing clever; it’s just a site of the best jokes ever.

THE BAD: Like every other public viewing enabled websites, this is

not entirely childproof. There is a chance of stumbling into a joke you wouldn’t want your kid to find. Beyond this, there’s hardly an issue with 9gag; unless, of course, you consider cynicism to be a sin. It is likely that you will run into it more than you’d like to.

VERDICT: 9gag reintroduces the fun in browsing.

Lolyard.com The biggest benefit of this website is its simplicity of design and concept — a picture a page. Home to ideas from around the world,The LOL Yard speaks of anything under the sun with a humorous twist. Among its most popular strip is where a cell phone explains to another, pointing at a portrait of a telephone, that their ancestors had tails. Clearly, these comics will not get you rolling on the floor with laughter. (This is, therefore, declared safe for browsing during office hours.) More often than not, they seem to have an underlying moral to the tale.

Failblog.org We laugh hardest when we laugh at someone else’s misery. This is a haven of all things people have failed ridiculously at. Do you want to catch a glimpse of people falling on an ice rink, daredevils that didn’t think their stunt through, posters and signage that are nothing short of blunders? Then, you’ve come to the right place. This is where human failures are taken lightly.

Nobody’s judging. But they sure are laughing.

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movies

Real Steel RATING: DIRECTED BY: Shawn Levy STARRING: Hugh Jackman, Evangeline Lilly, Dakota Goyo

THE PLOT: A future-set story, Real Steel is about a world where

robot boxing is a popular sport. It is centred around Charlie (Jackman), a struggling promoter who could be a synonym for stubborn. Like father, like son. His child thinks he’s found a champion in a discarded robot. During their hopeful rise to the top, they discover their similarities and battle out their differences. For fighters who have to start from scratch, they achieve more than they can handle.

WORTH WATCHING?

This sci-fi action film introduces an intriguing new world. Although based in the future, it keeps it real as the story revolves around basic human emotions of revenge, loss, love and hope. The graphics are close to flawless and thus worth watching at the cinema. Among the first to avoid the cliché of ‘robot turned against man’, this is a pure entertainer.

VERDICT: You’ll be flinching although completely aware that none of it is real.

The Three Musketeers With sufficient scenes of swashbuckling action and battles, the musketeers put on a good show with their fights. The action slows down and speeds up to show the grace and skill of the swordsman. Unfortunately the excitement fades out before it has even begun. It is hamstrung by a terrible script. You can afford to miss this one.

Johnny English Reborn If you thought age was a barrier for this comical genius, it’s not. Rowan Atkinson seems to have a lot more surprises to pull out of his bag of tricks. Silly spies are always a welcome treat to chase those blues away, the sequel to Johnny English offers just that; despite the fact that it came out rather unexpectedly following his prolonged absence.

BTM November 2011 113

downtimesatTV WHEN? OSN First, every Saturday

MOVIES

Burlesque Christina Aguilera returns to the big screen as Ali, a small town singer with huge aspirations. Ali faces all of her fears and takes her shot at the big time at the glamorous nightclub, Burlesque, where talented dancers and singers make their dreams come true. Club owner Tess (Cher) hires Ali to work as a cocktail waitress, but Ali doesn’t forget her goal and goes to great lengths to make a good impression despite making enemies along the way. Visually stunning musical numbers and an all-star cast including Kristen Bell, Alan Cumming and Eric Dane make this movie a must-see spectacle that you will surely find yourself singing along to.

SERIES/SPECIALS

Top Gear (Season 17) The world’s favourite motor-loving trio is back with a vengeance, ensuring you laugh all episode long whether you are into cars or not. Sixteen seasons down, the British show is still going strong, and this season you can expect the usual hilarious selection of celebs to appear on the show, trying their inexperienced hand at racing cars and taking part in engine-related challenges.

Watch out for foolish-acting English gentleman Rowan Atkinson take to the driver’s seat and musical expert Louis Walsh in the season finale. It’s set to be real entertainment value with Richard Hammond, Jeremy Clarkson and James May presenting — anticipate arguments, teasing and of course intense competition!

WHEN? OSN Cinema, November 17

Bridesmaids This laugh-out-loud romcom is without a doubt as funny to guys as it is to girls.

Kristen Wiig co-writes and stars as a maid of honour who is forced to get along with a friend-stealing ‘Bridesmaid-zilla’.

WHEN? Every Wednesday on OSN Comedy

WHEN? Every Sunday on Discovery HD Showcase

WHEN? Every Saturday on OSN First

Friends with Benefits (New series)

Stan Lee’s Superhumans (Premiere)

The Killing (New series)

This romantic sitcom revolves around five twentysomething single friends as they navigate the world of dating.

Each is looking for the love of their life, but will settle for less in the meantime.

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Stan Lee, the creator of legendary comics Spiderman and X-Men investigates four people who possess genuine super-powers to rival his own characters, including a man who claims he can fly…

The Killing follows three interlocking stories surrounding the murder of a young girl, from the detectives, the suspects and the girl’s family, as it becomes clear that there are no accidents and everyone has secrets.

WHEN? OSN Box Office 1, November 25

Jackass 3 Johnny Knoxville and the crew are back with more wacky and dangerous stunts for our amusement! Whether they are being bungeed in the air in a portable toilet or facing a wild and angry bull, it will definitely be intense.

WHEN? OSN Cinema, November 24

NEw CITROËN C4

POSITIVE POWER

NEw CITROËN C4, NOw AVAILABLE IN MOTORCITY The body styling of the new Citroën C4 gives an immediate feel of robustness and stability.

Sculptural lines and chrome strips emphasise the great care taken in the design of the car.

In town or out on the open road, you will be surprised by the sensation of well-being when at the wheel of the new Citroën C4. It benefits from the very latest innovations in safety and an excellent braking system, while roadholding is remarkable in all circumstances.

The new Citroën C4 takes driving pleasure to a new level.

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE

Citroen Showroom, Sitra.

Tel : 17 736 222 www.motorcity.com.bh

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Osiris In Concert A large number people attended a concert by progressive Bahrain rock band Osiris. The six-member band, founded by brothers Mohammed and Nabil Al Sadeqi in 1981, took to the stage at the Cultural Hall, near the Bahrain National Museum last month Osiris on stage

Osiris band member Ahmed AlQasim Amal & Kaltham

Hameed & Aseel

Othman, Fatima & Ruqa

Essa & Mahmood

Nasrin, Sima & Dunia

Always at your disposal

Sohaila & Lila

Mohammed & Birgit

Ala, Noor & Mohammed

Offers available: 1. Circuit training session: kickboxing, mixed exercise for punching techniques, move, cardio, stamina and strength exercise‌.

2. Personal training: A) Fitness programs: burning fats, metabolic acceleration, strengthening muscles B) Recreation program: a combination of different exercise to raise the basic physiological functions of your body.

C) Kick-boxing training: punching technique, movement, stamina, strength...

Personal training programs intended for age groups from 7 to 75 years based strictly on individual health assessment.

Facilities available: Cardiovascular equipment, isotonic equipment, exercise equipments like olympic bench, weights and dumbbells, adjustable benches and racks. Plus jacuzzi, steam room and swimming pool.

116 November 2011 BTM

For further information visit us at Juffair Fitness Center, next to Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair.

Or call us: Mobile: 33002592, Tel: 77072220, E-mail: jfcenter@hotmail.com

Mövenpick Hotel BBQ Night The Mövenpick Hotel held a BBQ Night for a number of clients and invited guests. The event was also attended by Heinz Krähenbühl, general manager of the hotel, owner representative Salman Al Mahmeed & Laura Perez, regional director from Dubai

Heinz & Francesco

David & Bless

Marlous, Yvette & Thomas

Sumaya, Laura & Marise

Mike, Shankar & Ruben

Francesco, Hussain, Salman Al Mahmeed, Laura Perez, Sumaya & Heinz

Jennifer, Madelynn, Koen & Hussain

Chef Holger

Ali, Mohammed, Adel & Abdulla

Lewis

BTM November 2011 117

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain International Seafarers' Society New Building Opened HE Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa, Chairman of General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP), officially opened the new building of the Bahrain International Seafarers' Society (BISS) at the Khalifa bin Salman Port last month. The centre will provide a world class premises for seafarers calling at the port and will also house the offices of the BISS

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj, HE Shaikh Daij & Shawki Kassab

Magdi Moustafa, Shaikh Duaij Al Khalifa & Magdi Sharkawy

Hamad Fakhroo & Bader Kanoo

Abdulrazak Zain & Paul

Mohamed, Satyan & Elyas

Abdulla Al Muharraqi, Wael Mirza, Nasser Al Sowaidi & Dr Tariq Al Shaibani

Per & Simon

Shamit & Capt Peter

Kim & Rev Chris

Marco

Dana

Andrew & Badrudin

BMW 6 Series & MINI Coupe Launch Euro Motors, the exclusive dealers of BMW Group vehicles in Bahrain announced the arrival of the all new BMW 6 Series Coupe and the first-ever MINI Coupe. The vehicles were launched at the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra

Majid K. Al Zayani & Hamid Haqparwar with the all-new BMW 6 Series Coupe

Hamid Haqparwar & Majid K. Al Zayani with the MINI Coupe

118 November 2011 BTM

Come December and Mövenpick Bahrain hopes to celebrate Christmas with a world record to its credit in an eco-friendly way. The hotel plans to break the current record of the largest structure made from recycled plastic bottles. The hotel will collect used bottles and turn them into a Christmas tree that will be six-metres tall. This was announced at a press conference by the general manager Heinz Krähenbühl, standing at the back and center, seen here with his team

Bahrain’s Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro was honoured by Electrolux International to celebrate their 30 year partnership. Seen here, Gregg Sklar, business development manager Electrolux International, Dana Fakhro, Rick Zelina, vice-president Product Life Process Electrolux International, Abdul Rahman Fakhro, Yusuf Fakhro & A G Vallabhan

The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Theme Park will be the venue for a world class theatrical water show "Pirates in Bahrain" that will run at LPOD for two weeks starting next month. Seen here at the press conference to announce the event , flanked by two pirates are, Issa Asmar, assistant general manager LPOD & Adam Page, head of marketing and public relations, LPOD

Bentley dealers in Bahrain Ahmed Zayani and Sons held a special screening of a 45-minute documentary on 'The making of the Bentley Mulsanne', at the Bahrain City Centre cinema. Seen here, are Akhbar Al Khaleej representative Abdul Majeed, Ahmed Zayani and Sons director Riyadh Ahmed Al Zayani, Bentley senior manager Trevor Gay, Ahmed Zayani and Sons general manager Jeffrey Barrett, Bentley after-sales manager Salim Mulla & brand manager S A Amoodi

The directors & management of AJM Kooheji Group acknowledged and appreciated Amina Ali Mohamed Saleh for completing 30 years of dedicated service with the group. Amina, 5th from left, receives a plaque for dedicated service in the presence of directors & management

The DreamBody Centre, a brand owned by Falak Enterprises WLL, has appointed a new general manager Saba Saleem, seen here with Suhail Algosaibi, Founder and CEO of the Dream Body Centre

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Bahraini-French Business Club Piano Concert The Bahraini-French Business Club and Life in Music (School of Musical Arts) held a piano concert featuring pianists Eleonora Stanevich and Olga Aoust. The event was held at the Golden Tulip Hotel last month

Mr & Mrs Abdulla Juma

Aqeel Raees, HE Mohammed Ashraf Harbi, Egyptian Ambassador & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Jean, Silvy & Fady

Olga & Eleonora

HE Yves Oudin, French Ambassador

Olga performs at the event

Mala & HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Abdul Hamid Hatem & Khalid

Waleed Sharif

Neman & Michel

Naisan & Waleed Kanoo

Rodolphe

Bushido Pink Fridays Bushido's ever-popular Pink Fridays was as usual all about the girls – free entry, three free beverages, table preference for ladies, plus the chance to win a shopping vouchers

Georgina, Alessandra, Rocio & Megha

Sofia, Oskai, Monica, Jonas & Tina

Fawaz & Monica

Tracey, Helen & Simone

Mohamed & Jamila

Marinela & Vanya

Cheryl & Elaine

Ana & Cora

120 November 2011 BTM

Jehad, Mayam & Mawahib

Marinela & Daniela

Pauline

motoringthismonth

Don’t Dream It, Enjoy It! The latest edition of the Fortuner is now available at the Toyota showroom in Sitra; this versatile SUV aims to maintain its position as the market leader in its segment.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom, has announced the arrival of the new 2012 Toyota Fortuner; the high performance SUV, is the latest addition to the Toyota SUV line-up. The new Fortuner is a powerful blend of comfort, performance and advanced technology, inheriting the athletic design that is the hallmark of this marquee yet retaining the model’s famed durability and quality.

“It is the leader in its segment because of its heightened comfort, spacious interior, innovative ways of utilising space, and on top of that its affordable retail price,” says Ayman Shehadeh, the Toyota and Lexus brand manager at E. K. Kanoo.

“We have been enthusiastically waiting for the arrival of the new model as the demand for this SUV is very strong in the Kingdom.

With the advanced and dynamically added features to the 2012 model, the Fortuner will definitely satisfy the needs of both the powerful four-wheel drive fan and the versatile family SUV seeker.”

Performance and versatility The Fortuner is a genuine SUV designed to deliver excellent driving performance both on- and off-road, as it is powered by either a 2.7-litre engine with 158 hp or a 4.0-litre V6 with 235 hp. The powerful engine is built with advanced Toyota engine technologies, including the Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVTi), which generates an increased torque and output, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions.

The robust capabilities are based on the refined chassis frame and good road clearance to tackle tough terrains. It is also fitted with ‘TORSEN’ LSD, which varies the torque distribution automatically and instantly in response to driving conditions, contributing to excellent vehicle stability.

The sophisticated and sportier interior reveals an optimised quality which has been enhanced by the bright, spacious and sports-style front seats, which smoothly integrate a feeling of active control, individual comfort and refined luxury.

Additionally, the multi-functional roomy cabin includes a sporty three-eye optitron meter, a multi-information display, a back monitor and USB/AUX jacks.

The Toyota Fortuner is ideal for people on the move as the interior space can be quickly rearranged to accommodate changing combinations of passengers and gear, where the three rows of seats accommodate up to seven adults comfortably. Additionally, the second and third rows can also be folded and sorted away to create a large luggage space.

Toyota Fortuner

When? November 3 and 11 Event? Open track day Venue? BIC Race to your heart’s content with your own car or bike.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? November 11 Event? Island drive Venue? Porsche Centre Drive around Bahrain for a chance to discover new places.

E Email porscheclub.bahrain @gmail.com.

When? November 14, 28, 25 Event? Drag night out Venue? BIC Take your car or bike to the drag strip and experience the thrill of your life.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? November 17-19 Event? Batelco Bahrain bike week Venue? Bahrain Mall, Sanabis Rides, activities and stunts are packed into this three-day event.

E Call 17 713-716 or visit www.bahrainbikeweek.com.

When? November 18 Event? National Racing Festival Venue? BIC Enjoy a day out with friends and family for some thrilling races and off-track activities.

E Call 17 450-000.

E Call 17 730-730 or visit the Toyota showroom in Sitra.

Also this month

122 x Wheels - 124 x Showcase

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Rebellious Cousin DAVID M. ROBERTSON With its distinctive colour schemes and sleek silhouette, the Cayman R aims to stand out even more than its stablemates at Porsche.

122 November 2011 BTM

In its media materials for the Porsche Cayman R, the German automaker says it reserves the letter ‘R’ for very special sports cars: ‘R’ is for responsive and refined, but most especially, racy. We think they should have added a fourth ‘R’ — rebellious.

This cousin of the Cayman S sits 20 mm lower to the ground, is lighter by 55 kg and packs an extra 10 hp under the hood. From a side-on view it looks distinctly more 911 than the Cayman S; the extended silhouette offering a rebellious personality compared to its, well, country cousin!

The one thing that you can guarantee from Porsche is that the final product delivers exactly what it says in the glossy literature — prominent among these is the power to accelerate and brake. The confidence afforded by the latter capacity results in a sports car that, at times, appears far too easy to drive.

In the brochure that comes with the Cayman R it suggests that this variant provides ‘a more precise driving experience’ than the Cayman S. That’s a polite way of saying this is much more of ‘driver’s’ car. Having driven both Cayman models, the ‘R’ demands

more of you as a driver but, equally, the car appreciates being driven. In the box for ‘responsive’, there’s a very big tick.

Ready for you Step inside the ‘R’ and your attention is immediately drawn towards two facets of the interior styling. The, some might say, rebellious exterior colour flows through to the inside, most noticeably in the ‘bar’ that resides underneath the control panel.

Then there are the GT-style door handles, in the form of bright red straps. For refined, there’s a tick as well, but with footnote — it’s an acquired refinement.

However, it’s what the powertrain delivers that’s the real attraction. Switch on the engine, and it rewards you with a distinctive ‘bark’; just like man’s best friend, it yields a simple, yet reassuring statement, “I’m here, waiting for an outing!”

I remember, many moons ago, being stopped by the boys in blue, after exiting the sort of enticing long, sweeping bend found on the stretch of road from the Bahrain International Circuit down to Al Jazeerah Beach, to question if I was aware

Model Porsche Cayman R Model year 2012 Engine type 3.4-litre, six cylinder Displacement 3,436 cc Horsepower 330 hp @ 7,400 rpm Torque 370 Nm @ 4,750 rpm Transmission six speed Tiptronic gearbox Acceleration 0 to 60 mph: 5 seconds Top speed 280 km/h

of the speed at which I was travelling. As the officer pointed to a speed sign attached half-way up a lamp post, I queried how anyone could possibly read such a small sign.

“At the speed you were doing, sir, I very much doubt it would be possible,” was his understated reply, suggesting that either I acquire a set of glasses or consider restricting any racing instincts I might have to a suitable venue.

Back to the Cayman R brochure, and it indicates the top speed is 280 km/h. I’ll have to take Porsche’s word for that; I do not recall, though, seeing too many speed signs as I put the ‘R’ through its paces. That’s another box ticked, for racy.

Rewarding experience There’s a fifth word starting with the letter ‘R’ that those nice people from Porsche will also tell you about — ‘responsible’ driving.

It’s always a pleasure to drive a Porsche, and the Cayman R is no exception. As with any vehicle, though, a sixth ‘R’ word is probably the most important: respect the power at your disposal and then you will truly relish the experience. Oh, that’s a seventh ‘R’! E Call 17 459-911.

To view a video of the Cayman R, scan this image with your iPhone or Blackerry.

See details on page 188 as to how to scan this image >>>

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Citroën C4

MOTOR CITY

Positive Power Citroën’s DNA imprint of innovative technology, creative design, topranked safety measures, enhanced comfort and personalised features are all reflected in the new C4.

124 November 2011 BTM

The new Citroën C4, available from the Motor City showroom in Sitra, comes with an intriguing extra [DASH] ‘Positive Power’.

This feature is based upon the positive energy the new C4 wields as a result of the design styling: exceptional levels of quality, style, interior space and occupant comfort, as well as responsive handling and impressive environmental credentials.

“The new Citroën C4 once again demonstrates the expertise of the brand in creating stylish and innovative vehicles with relevant technological advances,” says Yaser A. Qader Saeed, Motor City general manager of the new model. “We are excited to introduce the new Citroën C4 in Bahrain as we are confident that it will make a distinct presence in the compact car segment.”

With its sculpted lines and high quality finish, the new C4 cuts a distinctive profile, striking an impression of strength, stability and balanced proportions. Defined and flowing surfaces, such as the purposeful front end and rear spoiler, hint at the model’s optimised aerodynamics.

The tasteful addition of chrome detailing combines with the dynamic Headlight styling and sculpted alloy wheels to give the new model a premium presence. Promising precise control and accomplished handling, the driverfocused cabin environment combines with impressive acoustic comfort and soundproofing to deliver a true impression of on-road confidence.

In addition to optimised accessibility and practicality, the C4 offers a genuine feeling of well-being on-board, with spacious, comfortable seating and impressive occupant headroom. Personal comfort can be tailored to suit individual requirements with owners able to adjust the brightness of the driver’s instrument display, select their own ‘polyphonic’ sound alerts, finely adjust the intensity of

the air-conditioning and even immerse themselves in the rich surround sound of the new audio system.

“Once you get in your new C4, you’ll never want to get out,” adds Yaser. “At Motor City, we believe such a vehicle will appeal to a whole new generation of drivers.”

Moreover, compact exterior dimensions and generous internal volumes make it the car spacious and thoroughly versatile. The 408-litre boot is the biggest in its class, with practical square dimensions and a lower sill that makes loading even easier.

Alongside existing range technologies, such as electronic gearbox system, hill-start assist, automatic electric parking brake, directional headlamps, the new C4 comes with a host of technologies, some of which are unique for this segment. These include a cornering light function, cruise control and speed-limiter.

The new C4 is available with a 1.6-litre, 16V, VTi 120 and THP 155 petrol engine designed for optimal efficiency, along with a six-speed electronic gearbox system. It has also started racking up awards, including a second place finish from the readers of German motoring magazine, Auto Bild. The 2011 Design Award placed the C4 behind its stablemate, the DS4.

E Call 17 736 222 or visit the Citroën showroom in Sitra.

BMW 6 Series coupé

EURO MOTORS

Aesthetics and Dynamics This latest addition to the BMW 6 Series, the coupé, impresses with its irresistible design and inspires with even sharper driving dynamics than its predecessor.

The all new BMW 6 Series coupé has made its debut in the Bahrain causing the hearts of sports car aficionados, with an eye for beauty and a thirst for luxury and innovative technology, to beat a little faster. The third generation of the 2+2-seater sports coupé sees premium automotive manufacturer BMW adding another exciting chapter to its 30 year-long tradition in the production of sports cars.

On board is a range of innovative driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive infotainment features, meeting ‘driving pleasure’ expectations in a large, premium 2+2-seater in incomparable style.

Athletic elegance The new model’s extra length and width over its predecessor model combines with its five-millimetre lower height to produce a strikingly lowset and powerful design. The new interpretation of the traditional proportions is embellished by flowing lines and harmonious curves that create a feeling of athletic grace, complemented by extremely classy and eyecatching design features.

An expressive front end is dominated by the large and slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille, lending additional emphasis to the front end’s shark nose character. In addition, high quality chrome elements and the LED units of the optional fog lamps guide the eye to the muscular wheel arches.

Exclusive ambience The driver-oriented cockpit layout and a dynamic forwardsurging movement define the interior design. The centre section of the instrument panel, including the control display, central air vent and the controls for the audio system and climate control, is angled slightly towards the driver. The fluent transition between the centre console and instrument panel

can be accentuated with optional stitching in contrasting colour for the leather surfaces.

The rear seats also provide passengers with a very pleasant level of touring comfort thanks to their individual seats and greater shoulder and elbow room compared to the predecessor model. In addition, there is more headroom for passengers, despite the reduced overall height of the car.

BMW ConnectedDrive The new coupé is emphasised with numerous BMW ConnectedDrive optional driver assistance technology features for enhanced comfort and safety. These include rear-view camera, Surround View, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, and BMW Park Assistant. In addition, this is the only car in its segment available with a full colour Head-Up Display, which projects important driving-related information onto the windscreen within the driver’s direct field of view.

Owners of selected BlackBerry smart phones can also access the phone’s office function via the operating system iDrive.

Performance One of two options, the eight-cylinder, 4.4-litre engine in the BMW 650i coupé produces a maximum output of 407 hp. This unique engine, with turbochargers positioned in the V-shaped area between the cylinder banks, as well as its TwinPower Turbo, produces an instantaneous and sustained wave of power, making its responsiveness a delight for the driver.

Meanwhile, the BMW 640i Coupé is powered by a sixcylinder in-line engine, for which the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology brings both direct injection and fully variable valve control.

E Call 17 750-750.

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Ford Explorer

ALMOAYYED MOTORS

On the Road, Anytime!

The new Ford Explorer combines the capability, safety, convenience, performance and technologies that customers desire with class leading fuel economy.

The latest version of Ford’s much acclaimed Explorer SUV gets a complete make-over, and is now available at Almoayyed Motors in the Kingdom.

“The all-new Explorer brings an entirely new SUV to the midsize segment, raising the bar on what the consumer can expect from this category,” says Venkatesh Goud, general manager of Almoayyed Motors. “The new model is completely reinvented, offering customers an unmatched combination of convenience, capability and technology while setting a new benchmark.”

As well as its clean, modern exterior design, the Explorer also delivers a thoughtful, flexible interior package that abounds with clever storage solutions and generous head and shoulder room.

Moreover, there are three rows of flexible seating and room for all the gear families invariably take along on their adventures.

Quietness is another major feature of the new SUV and is superior to in-segment competitors and rivals premium SUVs for overall quietness and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control.

The design team enhanced NVH control using an advanced technology called NoiseVision. A ball with hundreds of tiny cameras and microphones, this device allows engineers to pinpoint and address potential noise issues earlier in the development process.

A balanced equation The overriding theme for the all-new Explorer dynamics development was balance, where the objective was to provide an engaging driver experience in harmony with the extended breadth of the four-wheel drive capability, to build driver confidence.

The shift to a unibody construction platform enabled a reduction in road noise and significantly decreased the SUV’s body roll in dynamic cornering situations. Independent front suspension is of the short- and long-arm configuration with a 32-millimetre front stabiliser bar. Independent rear suspension is the SR1 configuration, so-named for its one-to-one shock

126 November 2011 BTM

absorber ratio, which enables precise ride control.

Explorer’s EPAS system allows for variable rates of assistance based on speed, turn-in and direction. In addition to optimised steering feel, tight on-centering and appropriate resistance, EPAS provides a fuel economy benefit in comparison to traditional hydraulic power assist systems.

Terrain management The key to Explorer capability is Ford’s new terrain management system, which takes the guesswork out of maximising 4WD and the capabilities it enables. Rather than employment of four-high, four-low and auto settings, terrain management is selectable by situation. The settings — available by shift-on-the-fly — include normal, mud and sand.

Safety features Named a ‘Top Safety Pick’ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Explorer includes a class-leading suite of active and passive safety features and technologies. There’s also another Ford safety innovation, the world’s first secondrow inflatable rear belts.

Rear seat passengers — often children or mature passengers — can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. Ford’s unique inflatable rear belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional seat belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion.

Smart systems From Ford’s acclaimed SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system to MyFord Touch driver connect technology, Explorer offers technologies that enhance the ownership experience.

E Call 17 737-373.

Mercedes-Benz GL450

AL HADDAD MOTORS

Trust Your Instincts!

SUVs are generally great fun to drive; the Mercedes-Benz GL450, though, is on a whole new level, offering an intense driving experience both on and off-road.

We had an opportunity, at Bahrain This Month, to put the new Mercedes-Benz GL450 through its paces enroute to and around the Sakhir desert. This German automaker may be wellestablished in the SUV segment, but with the addition of this new model, it may just push the boundaries of what people expect from their SUV. On first glance the GL450 doesn’t look too different from many other SUVs; however, it is true to its German heritage, engineering that projects stability and refinement.

The image of sophistication continues when you step inside, thanks to the range of luxurious wood finishes and two-tone leather seats with arm rests and a wood/leather steering wheel in black ash. This spacious seven-seater boasts enough space for seven adults and, amazingly, there’s even enough room left for a bit of luggage too.

To give you an idea of how large this SUV really is, at one point I was tempted to shout, “echo”. However, although the size and aesthetics are an important part of the overall package, it’s how the marque handles that counts.

Not only does it boast enough space to comfortably seat seven people, this 4.6-litre 335 hp all-wheel drive GL450 Grand Edition boasts a generous amount of power, too. It comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission that adapts to your driving style and the 4Matic all-wheel drive system directs the engine’s torque to the tyres that need it most, converting grip into momentum.

When cruising down the highway, the handling was impressive and made the sprint from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 7.2 seconds.

Despite its daunting size, it felt just as comfortable driving an S-Class; it was responsive, sturdy and stuck to the road confidently thanks to the independent airmatic suspension.

Off-road excellence However, it really screamed, “I’m home” once it hit the desert.

Upon reaching ‘the middle of nowhere’, with nothing around but sand dunes and gravel paths, it was time to see what the GL450 could really do.

Located in the cockpit’s central stack are a plethora of controls which are used to activate the model’s more impressive off-road features. One such feature is the hill descent control.

This feature uses the ABS brake system to control the car’s motion when travelling downhill. It allows a smooth and controlled descent, even through rough terrain but that’s not the impressive part; it does it all without the driver ever needing to touch the brake pedal!

Features like this require you to ‘trust’ the car and not your instincts, a difficult feat until (after several attempts) you accept that the car can handle the task better than you.

Safety features Although no amount of safety features can ever do as much good as a cautious driver, this marque certainly does have a lot to brag about. The GL450 Grand Edition comes with side curtain airbags for all three rows, side-impact airbags for first and second rows a pre-safe collision-mitigation system, which tightens seat belts and closes windows prior to impact, antilock brakes and even an electronic stability system.

E Call 17 785-454.

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Business Club Reception The Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosted a reception for their valued business partners Business Club members. The event was an advance celebration of Diwali and was held at the Spices Indian Restaurant last month

Pascal, Ebrahim & Murli

Rachel, Anu, Ahmed & Philomena

Eman & Adel

Ebrahim, Amani, Nina, Anu & Ahmed

Rebecca, Ruth, Marivic, Fatima, Rowena & Turky

Danielle with Mr & Mrs Warrier

Ric, Bernadette, Faye, Anu & Christine

Nigel

Berna & Roland

Ashraf

African & Eastern Dinner Party African & Eastern hosted a Lanson Champagne Dinner at Mondo's, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa last month

Peter, Linda, Shelley, Wendy & Freddy

Megan, Michelle & Dominic

Ewan & Cynthia

Ashley, Anton, Shelley, Kirsti, Kate, Agnes and Nader

Margaret & Peter

128 November 2011 BTM

Doris, Mikael, & Carin with Panos Panagis, the hotel's general manager

Agnes & Nilantha

Megan & Graham

Nikhil & Kajan

diningthismonth

The Houston

The Ultimate Hamburger ELMA BARTHOLOMEW A favoured dining venue in the Kingdom, Johnny Rockets has now opened a second outlet at the Lagoon on Amwaj Islands.

One of the reasons why burgers from Johnny Rockets stand out is the use of premium Angus halal beef patties and the secret seasoning that enhances the flavour of the meat. It might also be their patties that are prepared on order; a onethird pounder burger undergoes a unique press-cooking method before it is served.

“What makes us different is that our customers are given an extensive choice in terms of sauces, like St Louis, Houston, Smokehouse and barbeque, and in respect to flavours that vary in each item on our menu,” says Dominic Gomes, the Johnny Rockets’ manager.

A venue that is equally popular for its ambience and the quality of its food and service, Johnny Rockets takes casual dining seriously. A replica of an American diner in the ‘50s and ‘60s, this restaurant takes you back to the past. If the seating that includes high stools at the counter doesn’t give it away, the vintage Coca-Cola posters and the jukebox on every table will.

When they promise friendly service, they don’t just mean greeting you with a smile. They make sure they keep you entertained as they break into a dance sequence with songs like Staying Alive, Last Dance and Saturday Night Fever. If you can pick up the steps quickly enough, you’re welcome to dance along.

Also this month

“We try to stay away from the ordinary. By creating an enthusiastic ambience, we attempt to help people forget their troubles of the day, lose themselves from the mundaneness of stiff dining and simply lose themselves at least, while they’re within our walls,” Gomes adds.

“It’s about being happy and helping others stay that way.

That’s why we always serve our ketchup with a smile.”

Rocketing tastes Their specialties might be their burgers, but that’s not all that’s cooking in the kitchen; the menu includes sliders, which delivers a mini-hotdog, a chilli dog and a mini-rocket. But that’s just to get you started; for the main course, those who can handle a little spice must try the Houston, a hamburger topped with jalapenos and pepper jack cheese.

You could wash it all down with unlimited refills of regular sodas or choose one of their spanking new deluxe shakes that are made with hand-dipped premium vanilla ice-cream and powdered malt. The strawberry-banana and Oreo cookie flavours are to die for.

You know what they say; it ain’t American till they serve apple pie. This is a great choice for dessert as they are freshly baked and smell divine. We all love their outlet at Al A’ali Shopping Complex, but their new branch on Amwaj Islands have an amazing view to match the menu.

E Call 17 566-565 (Seef) or 16 011-199 (Amwaj Islands).

130 x F&B Happenings - 132 x Far East Cuisine - 143 x Restaurant Listings - 144 x Theme nights

When? November 14-30 Event? Seafood promotion Venue? Chinese Garden, Gulf Hotel The chef brings the best dishes made from the day’s catch to your plates.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? November 15-30 Event? Food festival Venue? Royal Thai, Gulf Hotel It’s impossible to love the tastes of Thailand if you don’t love their fish recipes.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? November 19 Event? Cooking class Venue? Camelot Restaurant Chef Bertrand spares three hours to provide cooking tips and tricks.

E Call 39 977-540.

When? November 22 Event? Lebanon National Day Venue? Zahle, Gulf Hotel This Lebanese restaurant commemorates the day with a traditional set menu.

E Call 17 713-000.

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It Tastes New

There are three things a true dining connoisseur must practise — check out new venues, try out new dishes and share a passion for cooking. We’ve got it all this month.

Festive Feasts The key to celebration is good food. With Thanksgiving and Eid all in the same month, it’s hard to stick to that diet. Here’s our list of fine dining options.

New venue Three new venues have popped up next to each other at the restaurant strip in Juffair to add to its casual dining scenario. While New York Fries is reputed for its perfect fries topped with a wide selection of ingredients guaranteed to satisfy anyone, Mashakeek speaks for itself as they serve lip-smacking barbeques.

Inspired by the aromas and tastes of Asia, the menu at Wok in a Box boasts noodles, stir fry, soups, and rice dishes from five different cultures — Thai, Malay, Indonesian, Chinese and Japanese. E Call 17 725-000.

Thanksgiving dinner Crowne Plaza has chosen to spice up their Friday brunch on November 25 with traditional dishes like the roast turkey with all the trimmings and is calling it the ‘Absolutly fabulous thanksgiving brunch’. There will be a supervised kids’ corner with a magician, henna tattoo counters and face painting artists. The Country Club shows its gratitude to all its veterans through Brenigan’s special menu at BD12+. Night life venues like Club Buffalo and The Warbler prove they’ve got great kitchens as well.

Meanwhile, venues like Ramada Hotel Bahrain and Trader Vic’s have turned their turkey specials into a food festival. Who can complain?

New dish Sheraton Hotel’s fine dining Chinese restaurant, Soie, has an exciting promotion running through the month; a Mongolian steamboat stew which is a metal pot of stock placed at the centre of the table. While it is kept simmering, ingredients are placed into the pot and cooked before your eyes. Your options include thinly sliced turkey, beef, chicken, lamb, vegetables and/or seafood.

E Call 17 533-533.

Cooking classes Make a reservation at Camelot Restaurant for November 19 as chef Bertrand hosts yet another session of trade secrets of professional cooking. Adopt his passion and style of culinary art over three hours of hands on experience with the master himself. This will be followed by dinner and a beverage pairing lesson.

E Call 39 977-540.

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Eid specials All three days of Eid seem like a blast at Crowne Plaza as they have lined up some fantastic offers at three of their dining outlets — Waves Seafood Restaurant, Spices Indian Restaurant and La Mosaique Restaurant. From specially set menus and theme nights to an extensive buffet spread, they’re determined to please every palate.

The Gulf Hotel offers you a choice between set menus at Zahle and Takht Jamsheed and a lunch or dinner buffet at Al Waha.

RAMSIS HOSPITALITY

A Flair for Food The dining strip in Juffair is renowned for its assortment of dining options and new restaurant Flair offers a wider selection plus a little bit extra.

Flair is the ultimate go-to restaurant to enjoy casual dining without compromising on quality food and a sophisticated environment. Artful and elegant, the atmosphere is lively and relaxed but remains upscale. If you are unsure what you fancy eating you can take your time engrossed in the expansive menu, which aims to provide something to suit every diner’s taste.

You can sit down and enjoy a large meal or the gourmet wraps are just the thing if you need to grab a quick bite to go. The ingredients used are all fresh and high quality and there are plenty of nutritional and creative alternatives to suit each person’s dietary requirement — the chefs can alter meals to your specifications.

The restaurant, offering free delivery, abides by the policy of complete precision into each dish to ensure that you leave the restaurant certain that you will return. The bread is baked daily and the restaurant is adamant on its use of purely top-quality meats such as certified American Angus beef.

Promotion Each Thursday the restaurant will be serving a Three-course Traditional Roast Dinner. They also have a Turkey Express campaign for Christmas so you can indulge in traditional stuffed turkey with all your favourite trimmings including bacon, sausage rolls, broccoli and roast parsnips.

Additionally, Flair invites you to celebrate its first-ever Christmas buffet lunch this 25th December for the perfect holiday meal, and on their New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet.

E Call 17 212-900.

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A Fondness for Spice James Claire If you are going to ask any resident what their favourite food is, be prepared to hear the words ‘sushi’, ‘stir-fry’, ‘teriyaki’ and ‘pad thai’.

132 November 2011 BTM

Not too long ago, our perception of Asian cuisine was confined to dishes like sweet and sour fish, lemon chicken, stir-fry, nasi goreng and, of course, the ubiquitous fortune cookie to end the meal. Thanks to the multi-ethnic culture that the island boasts today, it is now a part of Bahrain’s lifestyle, one that is here to stay.

These Asian temples blend multiple sensory flavours within a single dish; the aroma is all it takes to succumb to these tempting dishes. The highlight of this cuisine lies in its style of

preparation from teppanyaki grills to rolling sushi.

A common feature of far eastern food is thinly sliced meats, vegetables and seafood, the subtle tastes of exclusive spices, herbs and seasonings, and the distinct flavours of ginger and garlic. A cuisine that highly depends on fresh ingredients for its foundations is also an unmistakable for its health benefits. Every meal feels light and is rich in proteins and nutrients; they rarely fry a dish, unless it is to add to the texture.

diningfareasterncuisine

East-west fusion

your culinary journey awaits...

134 November 2011 BTM

Initially merging the essence of the east with our own, today this favoured fare undergoes a transformation which combines elements from different oriental cultures to what is now called ‘Pan-Asian cuisine’.

Including Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, Chinese and Japanese cuisines are such hot spots as Nuasia, which have embraced this style within a vibrant contemporary atmosphere in its branches in Isa Town, Budaiya, Seef and Juffair. Tian Restaurant in Adliya offers a multi-sensory tour of Asia through both its modern menu and its very fashionable setting. You could also find the exotic preparations at Memories Restaurant in Bahrain City Centre, which serves interesting Cantonese options, in a relaxed atmosphere adding to the Asiatic line-up of Chop Chop, Thai Chi and Rice Bowl.

In the short space of the past decade, Bahrain has seen less than a handful of Asian dining venues blossom into a plethora of choices.

Standing strong for over three decades is Kei Japanese Restaurant at the Golden Tulip Hotel. Serving high quality authentic Japanese fare and favoured by ambassadors and locals alike, the compact dining area and conventional kimonos will have you thinking you have stepped into the centre of Japanese culture itself.

Screaming its heritage is the temple of the ancient samurai in the Seef district — Bushido. Unquestionable one of the trendiest venues on the island, you must see and experience it to believe it. They not only treat you to the finest of Japanese recipes but will also leave you awestruck, with the interiors and jaw-dropping luxury of it all.

In the world of sushi and sashimi, one can’t miss dining at Maki in Moda Mall or at Frangipani in Seef Mall for its exuberance alone.

Inspirations of grandeur can also be found in Adliya where a Balinese palace with a Thai-influenced menu can be summed up in one word — Monsoon. With breathtaking interiors, its beauty captures the core of far-eastern dining with a blend of Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese dishes.

Offering an unforgettable experience and a complete gastronomic tour of the region is the Gulf Hotel. Home to several restaurants, it is not surprising to find the world of Asia well represented with the flavours at Sato, China Garden, Royal Thai and Fusions. Priding itself on its imaginative cuisine, the team at Fusions seamlessly blend Asian and Mediterranean techniques with traditional European ingredients to create unusual yet delicious food.

diningfareasterncuisine Royal Thai restaurant is situated in a grand pagoda in the hotel’s tropical gardens providing scenic views. The beauty of this exotic setting is further enhanced inside the restaurant as guests are greeted with enchanting Asian décor and world class Thai cuisine created by Thai master chef.

China Garden is favoured for the chef’s modern style of cooking.

Signature dishes, including the Chinese dim sum and Peking duck enhance a menu influenced by distinct regions of Cantonese, Szechuan and Peking that bring the complete experience to all diners.

Sato restaurant has earned itself a reputation for serving the absolute best in Japanese cuisine in a peaceful Zen-like surrounding.

This distinguished icon boasts traditional teppanyaki rooms, authentic robatayaki grill and a sushi bar.

Can’t have enough So in love with the modern Asian flavours is Bahrain that the cuisine of the Far East is not simply found at high-end stand-alone venues.

Beyond the fine dining scene, fast-food and casual experiences of quality and convenience have also popped into our list of options.

You just can’t have enough sushi and catering to our demands; we now have Haki Sushi, Sumo Sushi and Bento, Yo! Sushi and Sushi 101. The Noodle Factory and Ching at Seef Mall also introduce the tastes of the Orient.

Soie in the Sheraton Hotel, BamBu!, Spice Nice, Mirai and Thailand Restaurant in Adliya, Hong Kong and Foli in Um al Hassam, Beijing Chinese, Arirang for Korean food, Hot Pot and Swan Lake all add to a line-up that makes Bahrain a hard place to ever contemplate leaving.

Why travel when the world of Asian flavours has come to you?

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Gulf Air Awards Ceremony Gulf Air held its GCC Travel Agents Awards Ceremony at the Dragon Hotel in Amwaj Islands last month Abdul Malik Al Saei, Karim Makhlouf & Hassan

Bassim, Khaled & Alaa

Philip & Shivadas

Dina & Alice

Waleed, Wasam, Ammar, Jamal, Hassan, Khalid & Ameer

Mathew

Sara

Hassan & Waleed

136 November 2011 BTM

Aziz, Yahya Ali Buali, Tarek & Karim Makhlouf

Al Bannai & Yaqoob

Issa

KEI RESTAURANT

Japanese Splendour Japanese cuisine is more an art and a lifestyle than it is a dining solution. An art as ancient and unique as this must be shared; Kei commits to this mission.

If you could serve culture and sophistication on a plate, it would be called Japanese cuisine. Kei Restaurant — pronounced Kay — situated to the left of the lobby at Golden Tulip has been a master of this art for over three decades. With a cooking style highly dependent on authenticity and tradition, this isn’t an easy feat to achieve.

As the sliding doors open, you will notice that the venue maintains a standard of sophistication in its interior setting and décor as much as it does in the preparation and presentation of your meal.

The private room sticks to its name so much that it might be hard to find at a glance. If you aren’t in the mood to dine at their well-arranged tables spread across two separate sections, you could opt to dine at the sushi bar or teppanyaki station.

Choose your meat, fish and sauces and advise the chefs how you want it to be cooked.

Chef Tsutomi Nakamura has been the head of Kei’s kitchen since 2006 and welcomes you to try out their daily lunch special, which boasts a different menu every day. If you feel spoilt for choice, which you will be, feel free to ask for his recommendations. The sushi deluxe bento box with seasonal specialties and the teppan combo of mixed seafood, grilled beef and chicken are definitely worth a try.

Save the last Friday of every month for a sushi dinner as you can eat at a respectable discount of 50 per cent. Remember, Kei also offers home delivery and outdoor catering.

E Call 17 536-918 or 17 533-450.

BTM November 2011 137

reportfareastern

BUSHIDO

Lunch, Japanese-Style Bushido demonstrates that there is more to Japanese cuisine than just sushi, and this is perfectly evident from the lunchtime selections available at the restaurant.

Whatever the reason we choose to visit Bushido, whether it is for the finedining options, the inimitable lounge or the everpopular teppanyaki room, we are in for an ‘experience’. If it isn’t to dine, then the night owls are there to chill on a weekend with international DJs spinning some great music behind the console.

What many in the Kingdom might not know is that this Japanese restaurant is also open during the day for lunch. With the weather becoming more amiable, it’s a great time to visit Bushido as the roof and French doors are open. Alternatively, Bushido’s terrace will amaze you as it lies beside a lagoon and faces a beautiful green landscape. The faux grass -carpeted floor and the cool breeze adds to the feeling of dining in a valley. With its own bar, this section can be reserved for private functions that deserve exclusivity.

The terrace forks out to two separate sections, both equally grand. Dine on the deck, above the moat, and you’ll be

convinced you’re on a floating restaurant. The Oda room, their banquet hall, opens out to this space which gives a new dimension to your event.

Cross over a wooden bridge to access Bushido’s private island which, believe it or not, allows a seating capacity of up to 30 persons. With the chirping of birds and the greenery that surrounds you, tranquillity will be your immediate companion.

These, however, aren’t your only alfresco options. Chill out, literally, in their lounge terrace upstairs that overlooks the island and lagoon below with a spectacular view of the sea beyond. The music played within the restaurant seeps through keeping you close to the true Bushido experience.

Sushi secrets If you’ve ever wondered where the distinctive Bushido tattoos are, opt to dine at their sushi bar. They highly recommend this for lone diners as chef Dany engages you into tips and tricks of the trade.

This section is in charge of any plate of sushi, sashimi and rolls that need to go to any part of the restaurant. Choose from their extensive range of seafood, vegetables and other filling and catch the magic live. Preparing Japanese meals is as much a treat for the eyes as it is for your taste buds.

Lunch promotion Don’t miss out on their special lunch promotion of the perfect bento box. Weight-watchers can take refuge in the light version that comes at BD9. How can you turn down such a good deal?

Sushi bar

138 November 2011 BTM

E Call 17 583-555.

GULF HOTEL

Far Eastern Marvels Gulf Hotel leaders in fine dining authenticity! Specialty restaurants include Sato Royal Thai, China Garden and Fusions for the ultimate gastronomic experience.

Acclaimed for serving some of the best Asian cuisine on the island, the Gulf Hotel hosts four speciality restaurants that have firmly positioned it as a foodies’ paradise. The five-star property caters to a wealth of traditional culinary styles inspired from Thailand, China and Japan.

Royal Thai

China Garden

Royal Thai Situated in a grand pagoda in the grounds of the hotel’s tropical gardens, this venue provides scenic views overlooking the turquoise waters of the outdoor swimming pool. This exotic setting is further enhanced as guests are greeted with enchanting Asian décor and world class Thai cuisine.

A spectacular seafood menu offers visitors a huge choice with lobster, crab, snow fish, clam and hamour that can be fried, boiled, curried and spiced to perfection by the onsite Thai master chef. Boasting two private rooms, the restaurant can serve up to 120 people for lunch and dinner.

China Garden Rumoured to have been one of Michael Jackson’s favourite restaurants when he lived in Bahrain, this restaurant sports a modern oriental design and offers a varied selection of food influenced by distinct regions creating Cantonese, Szechuan and Peking specialities. Its signature dishes include Chinese dim sum and Peking duck which are prepared traditionally. A delectable dessert menu features mouth-watering delights such as toffee lychees, toffee bananas and banana pancakes.

Fusions This venue prides itself on its creative and imaginative cuisine. A team of experienced chefs seamlessly blend Asian and Mediterranean techniques with traditional European ingredients to create food that combines unusual yet delicious combinations of flavour and texture. It offers guests innovative dishes such as lobster and mango spring rolls and green tea tiramisu.

Fusions is a contemporary and stylish rooftop restaurant boasting unrivalled views of the hotel’s tropical gardens and Manama’s skyline. The ‘wine and dine’ evenings feature a different vineyard each time around. Starting with a private degustation in the Vintage Wine Bar, the evening goes on with a five-course gastronomic dinner served here. In October, Australian Sandalford, Italian Villa Girardi and Scottish Chivas were the hosts of three amazing dinners.

Fusion

Sato

Sato Its patrons love the peaceful Zen-like surroundings and exquisite features including teppanyaki rooms, an authentic robatayaki grill and sushi bar. An a la carte menu features grilled fish alongside a wide range of traditional noodle dishes. Sato makes the perfect location for those looking for a genuine insight into Japanese cuisine and culture.

Every first Sunday of the month you will find a Japanese buffet, and an sushi day is offered on every third Sunday, with a 50 per cent discount on all sushis and makis.

E Call 17 713-000 or visit www.gulfhotelbahrain.com.

BTM November 2011 139

NUASIA

Elegance and Spice With a fusion of the elements of wood, glass and stone, Nuasia not only sets standards in architectural vision. It is home to truly new-style Asian cuisines as well.

One of the most amazing aspects about restaurants in Bahrain is their ability to continually surprise; the ambience of the interior often bearing no relationship to the harsh desert landscape with which we are all familiar.

Modern, stylish and delicious are three terms you can associate with the up and running venue that has made its presence known through its four branches spread across the Kingdom. A step into Nuasia and you are taken into a cooler, calmer place distant from the everyday hassles of our world.

The Al A’ali Shopping Complex venue features a stairway and a floating walkway, taking you up to private rooms, which can be opened into a space for larger functions thus facilitating the option of banquets. This feature is common to their homes in Palm Square, off the Budaiya Highway, along the restaurant strip in Juffair and in Isa Town as well. For those who choose to eat at home, however, they also provide delivery.

A defining characteristic of Nuasia is its two levels of dining space with the lower and upper areas separated by bamboo planters. Clean, crisp and modern, kitchens can be viewed through glass panels. The appealing mosaic wall panels and striking interior designs complement the quality of food and service.

Heading eastward Offering an imposing integration of four cuisine styles — Japanese, Chinese, Thai and Indian, the vivid colours reflect

140 November 2011 BTM

the variety in spices and foods of the different lands.

Starters of sesame prawn toast, crispy aromatic duck, spicy pakoras, chicken satays or edamame set the scene. Salads, soups, stir-fry and curries cover the four nations in a modern culinary style.

A fan of beef can either opt for the chilli or crispy preparations, or be adventurous and try the indo spicy beef flavoured with caramelised red onions and Thai sauces. Regular customers vouch for the pad Thai with prawns seasoned with sesame seeds.

Add some spice to your evening with their prawn masala or curry. You could also erase the myth that all Indian dishes are spicy with a go at the chicken korma or makhani. Their range of grills, kababs, tikkas and fillets from their tandoori oven will tempt you just as much as their variety of maki will.

Signature dishes include mixed teppanyaki, which serves a multitude of grilled beef, chicken and tail-on prawns on bamboo skewers, to share with friends at reasonable prices.

Although they offer delicious desserts to end the meal, what you mustn’t miss are the interesting cocktails like the Tokyo sunrise.

Nuasia’s expertise doesn’t end in the dine-in and delivery sectors. They now help make your private events grander with their outdoor catering services as well.

E Call 17 587-171 (Seef), 17 691-919 (Budaiya), 17 826-999 (Juffair) or 17 870-222 (Isa Town).

Tempting Traditions TRADER VIC’S

This venerable establishment has introduced several new reasons to visit them throughout the month, with a celebration of everything American and Spanish.

Walk into this fine dining paradise for a taste of the tropical islands. Even the walls wrapped in tapa cloth tell a story with coastal paintings from around the globe; the ceilings reflect the lifestyle of fishermen with handmade boats, local fish traps and Japanese rice sacks.

Their dedication to art is evident in a single glance with their spread of various kinds of tiki figurines and masks. The Paul Gauguin room speaks for itself with reproductions of his paintings. Choose to be seated in this non-smoking section that can accommodate up to 40 people as they open their French doors to let in the pleasant breeze from their private lagoon.

For a special dinner with a group, opt for their private room that boasts a vintage chandelier, dark-wood furniture and the postimpressionist artist’s painting of Tahitian women on the beach.

Bearing an atmosphere that completely enhances the FrenchPolynesian interiors is Trader Vic’s terrace that is separated as the restaurant and bar sections. The former boasts five tables and is open for lunch from 12 noon-3pm and for dinner from 7pm-12am; it’s a wise choice for romantics.

Heaven on Earth What makes this venue matchless is its lounge Mai-Tai, an island connected only by a wooden bridge. Playing groovy music through the evening, it is inspired by the architectural design of stilt houses. The dreaminess of this dimly-lit venue does not end with a view of the bay, the lake and the fountain.

An ideal place to organise a cocktail party, Mai-Tai can

accommodate up to 200 people.

The Tahiti Island, which acts as the main dining area, is an interesting space with a mythical touch. Their popular Chinese oven, which is the source of all barbequed preparations of poultry, meat and seafood is not hidden within the kitchen; you can witness how the flavour of smoky wood seeps into your meal. The display of live lobsters is as catchy as its open kitchen.

Tucked within the restaurant, the Lua room adds a personal feel to wine tasting sessions with a seating capacity of eight.

Those who can enjoy the true essence of the Caribbean islands would love the bar-lounge that hosts their Cuban resident band, Riviera who takes you to the islands with their Latino rhythms. But that’s no excuse to dress like you’re on the beach. Ladies, deck up; men, be your smartest selves to complement the venue.

November specials Make this Thanksgiving count with the ‘turkey delights’ promotion running from November 23-30. Along with traditional recipes of the season, they’ve expanded your options with dishes such as stuffed turkey roulade.

We are also excited about their Spanish seafood fest between November 16th and 23rd. The Hispanic bites will be served with traditional beverages of Spain like the sangria and the albariño made from the unique grapes of Galicia.

E Call 17 586-555.

BTM November 2011 141

diningf&bhappenings

Talking Turkey It’s the season to be grateful. After having a go at the tempting dishes they offer this month, you will be thanking them to no end.

Ramada Bahrain takes you to a whole new level of feasting this November with its special food promotion — Turkey Delights from November 12-24. Be prepared to revise your list of favourite dishes because once you’ve dined on this festival of delicacies you’ll wonder why you’ve never tried them before.

An à la carte menu with an extensive array of turkey preparations from fresh starters and mouth-watering main courses awaits all food lovers. A gastronomic wonder is in store for all epicureans as your meal is a treat for the eyes as it is for your taste buds. The choices include Vienna-style turkey escalope, turkey leg goulash, machboos rubyan with turkey and Asian stirfried turkey breast. Evidently, the range celebrates tastes from around the world.

Painstakingly plated under the expert care of executive chef Roland Gössler, the exquisite spread can be enjoyed in two venues — their award-winning Le Jardin restaurant, an all-day bistro, and The Exchange Restaurant & Pub, a perfectly cosy chill-out venue with live entertainment by the resident Filipino quartet Episode performing every day from 9pm, except Saturdays.

So, take some quality time out with a loved one and enjoy a feast to remember this month at Ramada Bahrain.

E Call 17 742-000.

When? November 12-24 | Event? Food festival | Venue? Ramada Hotel Bahrain

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

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Bamboleo At JJ's Irish Restaurant The music of acclaimed Rumba Flamenco pop outfit the Gypsy Kings came to Bahrain when Bamboleo, the UK-based six-piece band that features original Gypsy Kings member Nino Cantarell, performed at JJ's Irish Restaurant last month

Imran, Zainab & Ali

Adel & Adam

142 November 2011 BTM

Bamboleo perform at JJ's

Andrea & Andres

Yasmin & David

Peter & Geraldine

Siyana & Sean

Nadia & Naser

Ronel & Gert

Bridget & Edward

Alexander & Christa

restaurantlisting 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

European 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

Asian Bambu!

Chin Li Chop-Chop Tea House Curry Country Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Memories Mo Kan Monsoon Nu Asia Papaya Peppers Rice Bowl Thai Chi

17 714-424 17 717-717 17 178-701 17 537-555 17 178-083 77 033-444 17 525-455 17 178-646 17 360-000 17 749-222 17 587-171 17 697-105 17 717-808 17 179-600 17 179-747

Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu L’Avenue Le Pain Quotidien Mezzaluna Paul Café Sizzlers Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 567-222 17 179-734 17 742-999 17 172-321 17 716-999 17 298-008

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

Indian Aachi’s Chettinad Kitchen 17 233-110 Akbar 17 296-660

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 Mediterranee La Mosaique Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya 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 17 227-777 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 Jardin Neyran Palm Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Savoy Café Temptations (EGH) Temptations (ESH) Tiffany’s

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 17 742-000 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

Tian Yum Chow!

17 717-080 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 Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café

17 750-777 17 339-508 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777 17 363-999

Asha’s Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree It’s Mirchi Lanterns Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Spices The Great Kabab Factory

17 179-751 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 727-230 17 590-591 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 531-122 17 690-629

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

Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Sumo Sushi & Bento Sushi 101 Yo! Sushi

17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Korean Arirang

17 290-945

Lebanese Abd El Wahab Al Areesha Al Arz Al Hamra Palace 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

17 179-757 17 531-122

Shawarma Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses 17 311-111 17 725-414 17 296-660 17 224-000 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

Totally Fish Waves

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

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

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 Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Anatolia Iskenderun Grill

17 690-601 17 292-950

Kosebasi

17 172-322

Italian Biella Café & Pizzeria Café Italia Caffe Spasso Capri Carino’s Italian Grill Castello Cico’s Ciro’s Pomodoro 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 Terrazza Bistro Veneto

17 178-703 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 697-707 17 587-878 17 697-552 17 713-710 17 534-567 17 636-414 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 17 506-070 17 360-000 17 680-967

Japanese Bushido Edo Frangipani Fuji Sushi Bar Hakisushi I Love Sushi Kei Maki Mirai Sato Sugoi

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-336 17 725-638 17 300-610 17 533-450 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-084

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

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

Moroccan Momo

17 180-659

Pizza Little Caesars Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella Speezza The Pizza Company

17 179-400 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 742-299 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 826-222 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 EZ Take out Burger 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 17 241-111 17 711-112 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 811-812 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.

BTM November 011 143

afterdarkthemenights Theme? Couples night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant Tucked within Budaiya, this venue is bound to impress.

E Call 17 593-593.

wednesday Theme? Meat Room Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Choose any cut you like and have it cooked to perfection.

E Call 17 531-122.

sunday Theme? Indian Night Venue? Skyw@lk Café, Marriott Apartments Spice up your taste buds with their mouth watering Indian buffet.

E Call 17 363-999.

Theme? BBQ Night Venue? Mövenpick Indulge in a wide selection of fine meats including the churrasco.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Sizzling Sirloin Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant It’s time you found out why their steaks are so popular.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant It’s everyone’s favourite cuisine.

It’ll soon be your favourite venue.

E Call 17 593-593.

Theme? Sunday Roasts Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel Who knew they were open for lunch? We’re enthused!

E Call 17 713-000.

monday Theme? Gulf night out Venue? Gulf Hotel A splendid pool-side dinner is available at BD17++ with discounts for early birds.

E Call 17 746-412.

Theme? Curry Club Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel Every week they cook up a curry from different parts of the world.

E Call 17 713-000.

144 October 2011 BTM

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Sushi, prawns, lobster, oysters — seafood buffet at its best.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Moules et frites Night Venue? Camelot You know their wines are great; now try their mussels and fries.

E Call 17 717-745.

Theme? Family Day Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant Searching for a place to dine out with the kids? Look no further.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant It might be far from the city; but it’s well worth the visit.

E Call 17 593-593.

Theme? Sushi Night Venue? Cocoon Lounge Sample one of eight fresh, sumptuous platters of sushi.

E Call 17 827-600.

tuesday Theme? Italian Night Venue? Skyw@lk Café, Marriott Executive Enjoy their “La Famosa Notte Italiana” with delicious food.

E Call 17 363-999

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Medzo, InterContinental Regency Travel through the tastes of Tuscany with a free flow of wine.

E Call 17 208-308.

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Eat as much as you like of any kind of fresh pasta and pizza.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Are you in love with seafood? So are they and they’ve got it all.

E Call 17 535-000.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant We love their grilled hammour.

The mixed platter is a must-have.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel You can’t have enough fish in a day — nor crabs or clams.

E Call 17 713-000.

friday

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant A true foodie can’t have enough pasta; especially from here.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Fish on a Friday Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel They’re going back to the British tradition with interesting menus.

E Call 17 713-000.

Theme? Barbeque Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand A live BBQ counter boasts meat and seafood done to perfection.

E Call 17 584-400.

Theme? Dinner Buffet Venue? It’s Mirchi, Ramee International Try the Mirchi platter with the most succulent kababs.

E Call 38 381-615.

thursday Theme? Steak Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Stick a fork in juicy Angus steaks and scrumptious salads.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Suds USA Creole Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Check out how the Louisiana cuisine is a blend of influences.

E Call 17 535-000.

Theme? Smokes and Grills Venue? La Brasserie Restaurant, Elite Resort and Spa Dining by the pool sounds good, doesn’t it? Load up on barbecues.

E Call 17 313-326.

Theme? Legendary Degustation Venue? Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency The five course gourmet menu here is to die for.

E Call 17 227-777.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Eat the freshest catch cooked any way you like till your belly bursts.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? The Grape Escape Venue? Camelot Wine tasting has never been more entertaining than it is here.

E Call 17 717-745.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Rimal, Al Areen Palace and Spa Experience a unique culinary excursion across the seven seas.

E Call 17 845-000.

Theme? Couples Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant A romantic night out? Your meal includes a bottle of wine.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Great American BBQ Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Whether you like it medium or rare, it will be there!

E Call 17 535-000.

Theme? Lunch Buffet Venue? Fareast Seafood Market, Ramee International There isn’t better news for a true gourmand than a lobster promotion.

E Call 36 359-548.

Theme? All Day Breakfast Venue? Camelot Eggs made the way you love them; home-made waffles and more.

E Call 17 717-745.

saturday Theme? Sushi Fest Venue? Mo Kan Restaurant, The K Hotel Pamper your palate and taste a great selection of sushi at half price.

E Call 17 360-000 or 39 162-139.

Theme? All Day Breakfast Venue? Camelot Try the pancakes if you loved the full English yesterday.

E Call 17 717-745.

Theme? Saturday Brunch Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant Overslept on Friday? Worry not.

Try the brunch here.

E Call 17 716-999.

afterdarkthismonth When? November 25 | Event? Beach party | Venue? Muju Lounge, The Dragon Hotel & Resort Aurelio Vargas

Julio Cuba

Joan Ribas

Coast to Coast ELMA BARTHOLOMEW With a contemplative streak to its music, Café Del Mar returns to Bahraini soil as part of its worldwide tour to prove how laid back genres can move a crowd.

We’ve all heard the buzz about the best beach parties hitting the shores of Bahrain lately; most of us were smart enough to be part of the fun. This November we are all set to discover what a real party feels like with the third instalment of bringing home the vibrant spirit of Ibiza.

The first two of the 2011 series, Bora Bora and Pacha, were a resounding success with over 1300 clubbers dancing through the night beside the glistening waters of Amwaj Island. This time around, they’ve chosen to take it to the next level.

Making the crowd go wild on the night of November 25 at The Dragon Hotel & Resort is none other than the sensational Café Del Mar. Feel the sand under your feet, the cool breeze in the air and the lounge music in your ears and set sail to a magical evening of sheer entertainment.

All those who will have worked up an appetite with all the excitement can grab a bite conjured up by the hotelier’s trendy food outlets, Muju and Yamin Jana, who caters to every palate with scrumptious snacks and innovative canapés.

A quintet performance Lined up for November are five amazing artists who will create a completely different aura as compared to previous gigs.

Also this month

Promising an eclectic mix of tunes and rhythms from around the world, this show boasts elements of surprise that will keep guests grooving to their beats that feature a coastal influence.

Café del Mar is more than just the music compilations that earned them worldwide recognition. Founded as a bar in Ibiza in 1980, it has transformed into a concept of beautiful sunsets, fun people and chill-out music.

The five names that will be carved into your memory after this event will be Aurelio Vargas, Julio Cuba, Joan Ribas, Ruben Hernandez and Señorlobo.

Vargas is known for his personal touch that he adds to pure electronic music. Knowing that Cuba is the resident violinist at Nikki Beach in Spain should be enough to expect an explosive set of house tracks.

DJ Ribas flaunts his expertise of over three decades by mixing a jazzy touch to the house genre. Hernandez, on the other hand, showcases matchless elegance and innovation as a trumpeter having merged modern and tribal styles of music.

Borja Torres aka Señorlobo is an eminent DJ based in Madrid who has been spinning records and sending out good vibes for more than 12 years.

His sessions boast dirty funk sounds fused with those of electronic and soul featuring disco, afro-cosmic vibes with dub and twisted jazz. Sometimes he goes right to the source and plays the classics.

We weren’t kidding when we said no two performances will be alike. What are you waiting for? Grab your beach wear and get ready to party like never before. E Call 36 969-168.

When? November 1-30 Event? Wine festival Venue? The Press Wine Bar, Mansouri Mansions The whiff of rare wines are reason enough to try their new menu.

E Call 17 716-999.

When? November 4, 11, 16, 18, 23, 30 Event? DJ nights Venue? Cocoon, Best Western Juffair It’s all about partying with international DJs pouring in every other night.

E Call 17 827-600.

When? 7, 10, 11, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 Event? Live entertainment Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant There’s a lot going on at JJ’s this month; read on for details.

E Call 39 329-083.

When? November 10 Event? Tribute act Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva It’s getting hot in here. That’s right. Red Mock Chili Peppers is in town.

E Call 17 810-555.

When? November 10 Event? Tribute act Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee Int’l Liza is here to prove why she’s billed as the UK’s top tribute to Britney Spears.

E Call 34 014-860.

145 x Happenings - 148 x Cover story - 156 x Theme nights - 157 x Venue listing

BTM November 2011 145

afterdarkhappenings When? November 11 Event? Tribute act Venue? Dublin, Ramee Palace Her two-day tour in Bahrain ends at this Irish-American resto-bar.

E Call 39 413-677.

Life of the Party

When? November 17 Event? Dance show Venue? Bollywood Café, Ramee Int’l Chalte Chalte is a night of Indian music and dynamic choreography.

E Call 39 590-564.

When? November 17 Event? Black and white party Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Get unlimited drinks all night; ladies get unlimited cocktails at BD7.

E Call 17 826-001.

When? November 18 Event? Stop light party Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California It’s an open bar tonight at BD15; have a go at their three course dinner.

E Call 17 826-001.

When? November 25 Event? Beach party Venue? Muju, The Dragon Hotel & Resort Café del Mar is back to show you a real party.

E Call 16 039-800.

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Clubbing need not be set aside for the weekends. Dance away every night if you will. Here are a few options of where you could be seen this month.

There are plenty of celebrations this month around St. Andrew’s Day and Thanksgiving Day. Davy Crockett’s in Hotel Diva with resident band Seven Senses and DJ Craig McD have prepared a special Thanksgiving menu. Meanwhile over at Rocky’s Café, at Ramee International Hotel, they celebrate Thanksgiving on November 25 with unlimited booze packages. Commemorate St Andrew’s Day at Kicks at Hotel Diva with a fine selection of Scotland’s national drinks. If you like pub grub, try out their special traditional breakfast during the day.

Party time Here’s a line-up of the parties you mustn’t miss. To begin with, Wrangler at Best Western Juffair is turning 12 and they’re proud of it. Keeping the buzz alive at the Wild West saloon will be DJ Epps.

Ramee California hosts the ‘Stop Light’ party on November 18 at Club Buffalo and a ‘black and white sensation’ party at Bedrock on November 17. Both venues have an open bar promotion all through the night.

Club-hoppers can check out The Warbler on the same night as they celebrate all things related to Austin Powers; shell out BD12 and you can drink till you drop.

Britney tribute

Tribute acts It looks like Bahrain’s getting a kick out of tribute acts this month. With her recent hits, Britney Spears is back on everyone’s playlist. The UK group ‘If You Seek Britney’ will be performing at Rocky’s Café in Ramee International on November 10 and at Dublin in Ramee Palace on the following night.

The Warbler, at Ramee Baisan International, takes it a step forward with the ‘American Trilogy’ on November 3. Returning to Bahrain following popular demand since their gig last Halloween is Hells Bells, one of the best AC/DC tribute bands.

Visit JJ’s Music Hall on November 10 for a night of stupefying performances. It’s the perfect venue to support all that blaring tracks one after the other.

If you aren’t an AC/DC fan, head for Kicks, at Hotel Diva, who will host on the same night, the Red Mock Chili Peppers, with an impressive resemblance in sound and looks to you know who.

DJ nights Hed Kandi fans have reason to rejoice as DJ Sarah Louise visits the island at Karma Lounge in Coral Bay. J’Adele produces deep soulful house tracks; fall in love with her music on November 11 at Cocoon Lounge, amongt many guest DJs lined up by this venue during the month.

The star of the month, though, has to be David Vendetta, who will be appearing at Bushido on November 17. This award-winning artist is sure to bring the house down!

Adele

Charl Chaka

BTM November 2011 147

afterdarkhappenings When? November 17 | Event? David Vendetta | Venue? Bushido

The King of House Elma Bartholomew It’s the biggest party of the month and it’s at one of the best venues in town. Watch out for David Vendetta as he pumps up the music at Bushido.

November 17 is going to be a night to remember for party-goers as international DJ David Vendetta takes to the stage at Bushido, as part of the French week festivities. And yes, the king of electro-house will be accompanied by his official violinist Micah, who will add that extra zing to the event of a lifetime.

DJ producer David Vendetta kick-started his career in 1998 and went truly international in 2006 with Love to Love You Baby followed by the hit album Rendez-Vous. Although a regular at top-rated nightclubs, his choice is to remain an accessible artist, sharing the thrill and pure joy of a signature club-electrohouse sound. In his new album Vendetta, he reinvents himself and his music in the process, merging the influences from his travels, encounters and experiences into a more accomplished and diverse sound.

The musical genius is now coming right next to you thanks to Bushido that will convert into an adapted setup to welcome this live event and accommodate up to 1,400 lucky attendees, with two indoor lounges, two outdoor lounges and a huge dance floor. We, at BTM, were fortunate enough to sit in with him and give you an exclusive insight on the celebrity of the evening.

Regular tickets (downstairs) are available at BD10 for ladies and BD15 for gents. The VIP section will be upstairs, where tickets are BD20 for ladies and BD30 for gents. Tables are also available for groups of six (downstairs) and eight (upstairs) and priced at BD300 and BD500 respectively.

Priority will be given to ladies, couples and mixed groups, with entry at the discretion of Bushido management. Dress code is smart casual, and the doors open at 9pm.

E Call 17 583-555.

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Talking Tunes Bahrain This Month was able to catch up with David Vendetta and speak to him about his music and the upcoming event at Bushido.

BTM: When did you develop an interest in music?

DV: I grew up in a strong music environment. At the age of 11, I was already playing drums and listening to my older siblings’ vinyls. I was a fan of David Bowie, Queen, Kraftwerk, Kate Bush, among others. When I discovered electronic music in 1988 (the beginnings of house music), it was a real eye-opener. It was a confrontation between different musical universes. This is why I’m still in love with this music.

BTM: What is it that makes you different from others in the industry?

DV: Maybe the fact that I never play the same set in clubs; I play according to my feelings, depending on the venue and the club atmosphere. I try to be in complete symbiosis with my public. My music is often considered sexy, like the tracks with Rachael Starr, Sylvia Tosun or Freaky Girl voices; melancholic and, sometimes, a bit progressive and trance-like.

BTM: How do you think things have changed in your field of work over the years?

DV: When I started in 1998, being a DJ was not as popular as it is today. It was easier to make a name for yourself through your productions. Records were selling very well which allowed us to be recognised with our tracks being played in clubs and radio stations. With the development of the Internet, it is more difficult for record labels to trust new artists. The job is now star-oriented, and there are more wannabe DJs. I started at the right time, the right place and with the right people, such as Roger Sanchez for instance.

BTM: Do you think you owe your success to your mentor, Roger Sanchez?

DV: I have huge respect for Roger Sanchez who discovered me a long time before the success of my first album. This is

why I now do my best to help young producers by playing their tracks for example in my radio show Cosa Nostra that is aired every week in over 60 countries.

BTM: Who are you most inspired by?

DV: DJs such as Roger Sanchez and Erick Morillo are very impressive, especially in respect to the technical quality of their sets. DJ-producers such as Afrojack, Deadmau5, and SHM did bring a new turn in the electronic music sound and deserve some respect for that.

BTM: Has the music itself changed drastically over the years?

DV: In this new decade, I’ve noticed an important evolution of electronic music, but this is also what makes its strength. At the beginning of house music, many people thought it was just a fad and it wouldn’t last. That isn’t true; it still exists and is now even more influential than it used to be. And it’s not going to stop soon! The proof lies in all the big pop, R&B, rap and rock stars that are now getting down to it which also explains David Guetta’s success.

BTM: What are your future projects?

DV: I’m currently producing my third album, featuring new artists like Booty Luv , Max C, Sylvia Tosun, Polina Griffit and Akram, from which the first single will probably come out this month.

BTM: How do you keep up with the times? How many hours do you dedicate to your work?

DV: I spend a lot of time looking for some sound banks that would be useful for my next productions. It’s very important to follow electro music development.

I dedicate hours and hours to it working on my Radio Show, which involves listening to every new production from worldwide DJs, preparing my new album, and looking for new singers. Sometimes, I wish time would stop so I could completely devote myself to music.

BTM: What are your expectations of the Bahraini crowd and what can we expect from you?

DV: This isn’t the first time I’m mixing in Bahrain. I found the public incredible out here, mostly because they are very openminded in terms of music and because of the clubs and resident DJs’ quality. I hope the public will support me again for this event and appreciate my new tracks.

BTM November 2011 149

afterdarkhappenings

DJ Shireen

PARS INTERNATIONAL

Rising ‘Desi’bels If you’re at an Indian gig, there’s one thing you can be sure of — dancing, and a lot of it! Come party at Club Mynt and feel the music like never before.

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One moment you see her chilling with the crowd and you might mistake her for just another pub crawler. But this charmer is among India’s most loved in the DJing industry. Its youngest female DJ in 2005, Shireen quickly shot up the popularity charts thanks to her electrifying presence behind the console.

Not one to shy away from experimentation, she has gained an impeccable reputation for rocking a packed club with her signature style of music night after night within and beyond the subcontinent. Today, she has several independent tracks produced to her credit and boasts a huge fan base.

In a span of six years, this young artist has driven partygoers wild with her amazing skill of sensing the vibe of the people. A believer in the combination of hard work and sheer dedication, this girl has made her mark as a professional MC and rapper as well. She toys with genres like electro, funky and progressive house, Bollywood , hip-hop and R&B. But, have no doubts, she’ll be shaking up the dance floor with rhythms from her homeland.

Jamming up and warming the crowd for DJ Shireen on the night of November 11 will be Bahrain’s own DJ Andy, the founder of renowned remix service Musee Bees and official DJ for Foster’s Art of Chilling India. Known for his electrifying music for over a decade, this mix-artist has mastered the genres of minimal tech, electro and Bollywood.

“There is nothing like having a crowd appreciate and dance to your tunes,” he says.

Currently focused on producing his own compositions in the Dutch house style of music, Andy is inspired by the likes of Afrojack, Chuckie, Diplo, Klaas, Laidback Luke, David Guetta and Vandalism.

In mint condition This night of unlimited dance tracks, organised by Desi Beats, starts at 9pm and will be held at one of the hottest clubs in town — Club Mynt. Follow the thumping beats in smart casuals to find this glamorous venue tucked within the first floor of Pars International Hotel. Pre-sale tickets are BD7 for gents, BD5 for ladies and BD10 for couples and individual VIP passes.

Owing to their exciting theme nights, Club Mynt is buzzing with people all through the week. Hoteliers and cabin crew get a 30 per cent discount every night. Monday Madness is all about free seconds as it’s got a ‘buy one, get one free promotion’ running all night long. Tuesday is Ladies’ Night; that’s free selected beverages from 9pm-2am. Watch out for Wednesdays as it’s all about hip-hop and R&B at this happening venue.

E Call 17 814-777 or 33 471-617.

CORAL BAY

Bring Down the House

DJ Sarah Louise

JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT

Louise is in the House!

Sarah Louise brings a remarkable performance to the clubbers of Bahrain, with her unique, energetic style that has been a big hit with Hed Kandi fans.

Sarah Louise has been playing house music for over six years. Her inquisitive nature saw her first become interested in DJing and clubbing back in 2003. In the same year, she purchased her first set of decks and by 2004 had picked up her first residency. It was a whirlwind rise into the club scene to say the least.

Over the years, the budding artist has built up a name for herself in her local commercial club scene, becoming a full time DJ and holding residencies in a host of top South Wales and the West clubs. And in 2007, she delved into the radio scene for a period of 18 months, presenting and producing a fortnightly radio show called The Groovement on ssradiouk that showcased her own blend of soulful, funky and electro sounds. Her influences range from the likes of DJ Spen, Grant Nelson, Joey Negro, Daft Punk, Fedde le Grand and Bart B More among many others.

More recently, this sexy lady was asked to join Hed Kandi as part of their renowned and respected resident DJ team and now enjoys touring the UK and the rest of the world playing the best in house music to packed out venues.

“I’ve seen some amazing cities and met fantastic people along the way. Hed Kandi offers so much variety as each gig is different; the DJs and the crowds always deliver a unique adventure,” she says. “I’m extremely lucky to be involved with the Hed Kandi experience. It’s something I’ve strived for and I can honestly say I love every minute.”

Be sure to watch out for the stunning mixologist smashing it up on November 24 at JJ’s music hall.

E Call 39 329-083.

One of the freshest and brightest talents currently on the house music scene, DJ and promoter James Murray tried his hand at the game at 15. Following a surge in the popularity of house music in the late ‘90s, he realised that it was his true love.

After years spent building up his record collection and with plenty of practice under his belt, he decided it was time to take things to the next level. Following a few more years of regional gigs and contests, he decided to spend the summer of 2005 in Ibiza. DJing for the first time on the ‘white isle’, he played at bars like Café Mambo, Bar M, Play, Kenya and Base.

2007 saw James take things a step further and realise his ambition to host events. He set up his own company, Gifted Promotions; the dream became a reality and has gone from strength to strength.

Over the last few years James has become a familiar face at some of the finest clubs in the UK and 2010 saw him reach new heights. Having secured a number of bookings in Europe and a tour of major clubs in Ibiza, James was then signed up to the Ministry of Sound world tours playing a 10-day, four-city tour of India. Plenty more overseas bookings for have followed with him playing in countries including Dubai, Thailand, France, Estonia and Russia. Amidst all the success he has experienced though, James still remains one of the most likeable and grounded DJs on the circuit.

This spin-master is set to show you what real house music is all about. Catch him live on November 4 at Karma Lounge, Coral Bay. E Call 39 649-590.

When? November 24 | Event? DJ night | Venue? Karma lounge

When? November 24 | Event? DJ night | Venue? JJ’s live music hall

He has spun tracks with some of the biggest names in the business at some of the finest venues around. On November, James Murray will take Bahrain by storm.

DJ James Murray

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afterdarkhappenings RAMEE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Rock That Party

When? November 10 | Event? Tribute act | Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee Int’l Hotel

She’s said she loves rock and roll and now she’s set to make an appearance at the home of Bahrain’s rockers.

‘If You Seek Britney’ is the UK’s top tribute show to pop princess Britney Spears and they aren’t so far away any longer.

That’s right. You can catch them live right here in Bahrain. Save the date — November 10 at Rocky’s Café where entertainment is taken to a whole new level.

Spears has been in the headlines for various reasons.

However, her music is loved by people the world over. She has had four world tours and has sold over 100 million records worldwide. ‘If You Seek Britney’ takes you on a journey of her career from the schoolgirl to the most recent femme fatale era.

The show includes all of her biggest hits that span her decadelong career and seven studio albums.

The performer comes with two professional female backing dancers which help enhance the act by bringing forward the dance element that the singer is known for. A carefully planned list is sure to get the crowd dancing. Replica costumes including recent outfits that she sports on her current tour keeps things real, at least as much as it can be.

Crowd participation and sexy routines help make this an exhilarating show.

Kick off the weekend with the extraordinary performance by Liza Stitt, Nicola Jayne Campbell and April Stuart Macrae as they set the stage on fire. Dare to miss the show and you won’t have too long too wait — they’ll be performing at Dublin the very next day. E Call 34 014-860.

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Bedrock 1st Anniversary The Ramee Group celebrated the 1st Anniversary of Bedrock Discotheque, the night spot at the Ramee California Hotel in Juffair Sandeep, Hamdi, Ashalatha & Shantharam Shetty, Ebrahim & Antony

Micky & Ricky

DJ Aldwin

Dana & Lora

Cutting the anniversary cake

Ashalatha & Shantharam Shetty

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Yu & Tariq

Vanessa, Face & Zainab

Manoj, Vachan, Eliza, Jhovy, Cheryl & Harsha

Sandeep

Hamdi

afterdarkhappenings When? December 1 | Event? Celtic band | Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant

Skerryvore

JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT

Bringing Back the Celt Hold your breath for the most sensational gig of the season. JJ’s Irish Restaurant presents once again for one of their most popular bands to date — Skerryvore!

Anyone who has attended a show by the hypnotic Scottish band will remember it for the soulgripping songs, blazing bagpipes, fiddles and accordions all electrically fused with the urban sounds of rock and funk. You’ve loved the magic of nu-folk-rock before. And you’re definitely going to go crazy this time because they just got much better.

Formed in 2004 on the Isle of Tiree in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, the band has developed from its roots both in size and sound to create a unique fusion in their traditional music. With their outstanding musicianship and the mesmerising voice of singer Alec Dalglish, who recently won a ‘Frankie Miller Songwriter of the Year’ award, today the band is an international sensation performing worldwide in cities such as Shanghai, Amsterdam, Milan, Prague and Dubai. They are also popular for their performances at premier festivals such as T in the Park.

The band’s highly anticipated third album, Skerryvore, released in July 2010, received sensational reviews from respected media and was presented the title of ‘record of the year’ at the Scottish New Music Awards, and was declared the ‘Album of the Month’ on the BBC Radio Scotland’s ‘Celtic Connections’ international broadcast. The albums represent their musical development over the past years through a host of new compositions displaying the variety of musical influences within the group.

Six of the best musical ambassadors Scotland could have wished for, Skerryvore will be performing in JJ’s Irish Restaurant on December 1. Tickets are available on the door or for presale at the venue and in Camelot Restaurant and Coral Bay for BD5. It is a living, breathing, 12-legged party waiting to happen on stage as they continue to generate a massive following of fans of all ages. E Call 39 329-083.

Let There Be Rock

JJ’s Irish Restaurant will be raising the volume at their music hall on November 10 as Hells Bells are back on Bahraini sand for one night only. The band will be covering material from both the Bon Scott and Brian Johnson eras, covering four decades of classic no-nonsense, foot stomping rock.

From the blistering scream of the vocals, the pounding rhythm and bass, the frenzied schoolboy antics to the booming cannons and pyrotechnics at the finale, they have all the elements for an awesome spectacle. Tickets are available at the door at BD5; doors open from 8pm, show starts at 10pm. For all those about to rock, we salute you!

E Call 39 329-083.

Hells Bells

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afterdarkthismonth When? November 17 | Event? Irish band | Venue? JJ’s music hall

Curtis Walker

Aslan

JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT

The Irish are Here!

JJ’s goes back to its deep Irish roots this November as they host one of the biggest traditional rock/folk bands that Ireland ever produced.

Tying in with the Gaelic Games Festival, also known as the Irish festival weekend, JJ’s Irish restaurant, in collaboration with the Bahrain Irish Society, presents Aslan for the first time in Bahrain.

Taking their name from the heroic lion in C.S. Lewis’s series of books chronicling the fictional land of Narnia, this band proves that they still have plenty of roars in them. Their demo single, This Is, released in the spring of 1986, became the longest ever play-listed single on Ireland’s pop radio station, RTÉ 2fm. This was just the start; they subsequently went on to produce and release hit after smash hit like Feel No Shame which was the band’s first record to be awarded the number one spot setting the tone for things to come.

The track, Crazy World, entered the charts at number four and stayed for three months becoming one of the most played songs on Irish Radio. It also won the ‘single of the year’ title in 1993’s Hot Press Awards and is still renowned as the band’s most famous song!

A few months later, the follow-up single Where’s the Sun, reached third position on the charts.

The latter part of 1994 was spent touring and recording their album, Goodbye Charlie Moonhead, which topped the charts soon after its release. Within such a lifespan, most bands would probably have produced a minimum of, say, two dozen albums. But Aslan would argue that stringent quality control in their music plays a significant role in their decision not to churn out a mediocre album on a yearly basis. They try to make the wait worth it.

Fast forward 12 years and we now see a band that has not only evolved together over three decades, but like a fine wine has only gotten better. Join them on November 17 as they mark the opening ceremony of the 2011 Gaelic Games Festival with the finest example of Irish folk/rock music in the famous music hall.

Tickets are available on the door or for presale from JJ’s Irish Restaurant, Camelot Restaurant and Coral Bay. While tickets cost BD10 per head for the general public, Bahrain Irish Society members can get tickets at BD7 on presenting a valid membership card upon purchase.

Doors open from 8pm; show starts at 10pm.

Fall in love with their music, be inspired by their message and get addicted to the inimitable voice of Christy Dignam. E Call 39 329-083.

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Laugh Out Loud The laugh-a-minute Craic Attack comedy tour has made their stop in town and is here to stay. ’ Featuring the very finest of British comedians currently on the live comedy circuit, Craic Attack digs its cheeky heels into JJ’s Music Hall where it will be holding residence once a month. Your first instalment comes on November 25 where they clear the stage for two very different but equally established comedians — Brendan Dempsey and Curtis Walker.

Widely recognised for his role as Jim Kelly, the lottery rep in Walking Ned, Brendan has also appeared in Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York. Curtis is a regular on the Jongleurs circuit and has a one-man show titled Right Now. Catch the tour kick-off at BD15 on November 25.

Packages are available for all-inclusive tickets and party tables including dinner, platters beverages and much more.

Doors open at 8pm; your first comedian takes to the stage at 10pm. E Call 39 329-083.

Brendan

They’ve Done It Again November promises to be another jam-packed month at Dublin in Ramee Palace. Two words — Britney Spears!

The highlight of the month at this happening nightlife venue is ‘If You Seek Britney’, a Britney Spears tribute show taking place on November 11. As the UK’s top tribute group to the Femme Fatale star, Liza Stitt and her dancers, April and Nicola, have perfected an act that is as much about the show as it is the music.

Fans of the baby-faced singer, or anyone just looking for a fun-filled night out, can look forward to a musical and visual journey through the years from her debut album right up to her most recent hits. Featuring stunning dance choreography and costume changes that recreate her memorable wardrobe, this is a show that cannot be missed. Entrance is free for ladies and costs BD5 for gents after 9pm, with a BD15 unlimited beverage package available to all.

Sporting a fresh look Performing six nights a week to an enthusiastic audience, resident band Evolver have quickly established themselves among the top live act in Bahrain. Ably supported by the inimitable DJ Bass behind the decks, the revelry regularly continues into the early hours.

A new ‘quiet area’, with a second bar, pool tables and larger TV screens, has added an extra dimension to this popular Irish-American bar. Add in the extensive international menu, prepared by the experienced kitchen team, the three beer pong tables for the competitive drinkers and you have a venue that ticks all the right boxes. Be sure to visit to this venue tucked within Juffair and you won’t be disappointed. E Call 39 736-547 or visit Dublin Club Bahrain on Facebook.

When? November 11 | Event? Tribute act | Venue? Dublin, Ramee Palace Hotel

RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Dublin

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JJ's Music Hall 80's Show JJs Music Hall presented the '80’s A Blast From The Past' show at JJ's Irish Restaurant last month. The event featured The Cutting Crew, Carol Decker of T’Pau, Katrina & The Waves, together with DJ, TV and Radio Host, Pat Sharp

Sean, JJ's manager

Barnaby & Bigby

Cutting Crew

Pat Sharp

Carol Decker of T'Pau

Kirk, Ronda, Andy & Simon

Sally & Bonnie

Katrina & The Waves

Piera & Sandra

Orla & Orla

Laura, Karen & Kaye

Zahida & Julia

Sayed & Ameda

Naomi & Katarina

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afterdarkhappenings JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT

Ultimate Talent Quest

Among Bahrain’s best-loved talent show, Karaoke Idol returns to JJ’s Irish Restaurant this month which only means one thing. It’s time to test your vocal skills.

This one’s going out to all you bedroom Beyoncés, shower time Shanias, and motorway Madonnas — now is your chance to emerge from the shadows and let your undiscovered vocal genius be heard by Bahrain’s public..

With the prize money of BD1,000 up for grabs plus studio recording time and the chance of a lifetime to perform live with your very own band, JJ’s Karaoke Idol is bound to attract all kinds of talent to the stage for some gripping live entertainment. True karaoke kings and queens will stun the judges and amaze the audience going through to the finals for their chance at glory.

Karaoke Idol 2011 kicks off with the first round on November 7. There will be six rounds in total, taking place every Monday, with the last round on December 12. Two finalists from each round will go through to the grand final on December 19, where they will sing their hearts out for a chance at the three top cash prizes of BD700, BD200, and BD100.

Each contestant faces three of the toughest, most cynical and critical talent judges in Bahrain. Not to worry though. Everyone who has a go will earn themselves a free drink. So, come on down to JJ’s on Mondays, check out the performances, and if you think you’re tough enough, loud enough or good enough, go ahead and get singing.

E Call 39 329-083.

bystanderthismonth

Bushido Nights DJ Dara Singh, the in-house DJ at Bushido Restaurant in the Seef District had a number of people moving to his smooth grooves over the weekend

Amanda, Ray & Jenny

Christin, Navin & friends

Lara & Wael

DJ Dara Singh

Sheldon, Heena, Shana, Varsha, Hridya & Sherin

Gary, Aileen & Paul

Lydia & Trevor

Ricky & Nicole

Pravesh & Riaz

Anissa & Megan

Rocio & Leylan

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Jumana & Zaid

Cristina & Willie

themenights Theme? Beat the Barman Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Roll the dice higher than the barman to get free beverages.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Quiz Night Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Ladies receive five Kicks pounds at the door to redeem five drinks.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Karaoke night Venue? Champs, Best Western Sure it’s a sports bars; but singing isn’t an evil. Or is it?

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Hoteliers’ Night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel This is a night dedicated to the hotel and services industry.

E Call 33 477-088.

Theme? Dollar Giveaway Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Present five DC dollars to get five selected drinks from 8pm-1am.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Beer fest Venue? Karma lounge, Coral Bay Poolside parties don’t get better than with DJ Sami.

E Call 39 777-701.

Theme? Microphone Madness Venue? JJ’s Irish Get in the spotlight and relish in your four minutes of fame.

E Call 17 717-370.

sunday Theme? FBI Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza It’s half the price for all in the food and beverage industry.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? The Generation Game Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Spin the wheel; hear tracks from the decade it lands on.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Guitar Hero Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Your chance to be a rock star; get on stage, prove yourself E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Lucky Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Choose a colour; win free drinks all night.

E Call 17 584-400.

Theme? Bullfrog Night Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee International Hotel It’s the drink of the day; get pitchers of the white spirited demon.

E Call 34 014-860.

Theme? Quiz Night Venue? JJ’s Irish Are you smarter than a DJ? Prove it to win great new prizes.

E Call 17 717-370.

Theme? Beer Night Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Get international beer for just BD2 until midnight.

E Call 17 826-001.

monday

Theme? Shooters and Shots Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Down jagerbombs and Sambucas at BD2 all night long.

E Call 17 826-001.

tuesday Theme? Karaoke night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza It’s all about music and cocktails; buy one, get one free.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Couples’ Night Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International The lady is welcomed with a drink. Buy two, get one free.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Double-up Tuesdays Venue? JJ’s Irish Make your drink, spirit or mixer, a double for only BD1 extra.

E Call 17 717-370.

Theme? Wine tasting Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel Introducing table-side wine tastings accompanied by canapés.

E Call 17 746-461.

wednesday Theme? Pitcher Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza At their price, there’s no stopping at one pitcher tonight.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Open Wednesday Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Warm up for the weekend and drink all you can at BD15.

E Call 17 826-001.

Theme? Vinotherapy Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel A new approach to wine-tasting; it is partly a spa experience.

E Call 17 746-461.

Theme? Mad Wall Street Night Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Unbelievable prices for drinks during the band’s intermissions.

E Call 17 227-777.

thursday Theme? Unlimited Drinks Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee International Drink till you drop at BD15. Be part of a night of sheer fun.

E Call 34 014-860.

Theme? R&B Night Venue? Cocoon Ladies raise your glasses for free bubbly all night long.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Double Trouble Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Enjoy doubles for the price of singles.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Cocktail night Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Begin the weekend with freshly made cocktails from 5pm-10pm.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Party fever Venue? Wrangler Pay BD11 and drink the night away.

Gulf Air girls get free entrance.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Thirsty Weekend Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Get unlimited sprits with mixers, beer or wine at BD15.

E Call 17 826-001.

Theme? Hawaiian Night Venue? Boomers, Pars International Dance to the live performance by Simple Notes.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Cuban Night Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International Ladies get unlimited mojitos on the house till midnight.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Wine Compound Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel Meet other wine lovers for a truly interactive experience.

E Call 17 746-461.

friday Theme? Karaoke Night Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva We hear they’re serving a brunch to die for. The singing begins at 5pm.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Pink Fridays Venue? Bushido Lounge Ladies, enjoy a night out; win a pair of Louboutin shoes.

E Call 17 583-555.

Theme? The Friday Affair Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California DJ Johnny and resident band Deluxe keep you dancing all night.

E Call 17 826-001.

saturday Theme? Bullfrog madness Venue? Wrangler The blue levy is on the loose; buy one and get one free.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Gastro brunch Venue? Polo Lounge Gastro Café, The Palace Pub-grub never tasted better.

Explore their tricky cocktails.

E Call 34 003-754.

Theme? Karaoke Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Buy one cocktail of your choice; get a second absolutely free.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Spiritual Saturdays Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Ladies receive complimentary house spirits from 8pm-2am.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Salsa Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Put your dancing shoes on for their Latino dance classes.

E Call 17 584-400.

Theme? Crazy Crew Night Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Flash your crew ID; get 50 per cent off your drinks from 9pm.

E Call 17 227-777.

Theme? Jammers Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Guests get the chance to jam with the live band.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Mid-week madness Venue? Wrangler Buy one get another free from 7pm-12am.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Fabulous Fridays Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Wait for the sound of the klaxon when prices dive to just BD1.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? The K-Factor Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Join them for Karaoke night; ladies get free drinks.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Mexican Night Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International Get tequilas and margaritas at low prices. You’ll be asking for more.

E Call 17 814-777.

BTM November 2011 157

venuelisting Bar Boomers Champs Diggers Enigma Fiddlers Green Maguire’s Moodz Club

17 814-777 17 827-600 17 224-000 17 297-000 17 525-263 17 716-999 17 849-111

Disco Bedrock Club Euphoria Pulse Discotheque Tabasco Charlie’s Twister

17 826-001 17 727-230 17 827-999 17 224-242 17 296-660

bystanderthismonth

An Evening Of Fine Cigars Members of the Cigar Diaries club were invited to taste some of the world's finest cigars last month. The event organised by the Faieq Al Zayani Company at the Trader Vic's Mai Tai Lounge, located at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa

Jacob, Jomon, Yonaidi, Sunil & Shivan

Lounge Bar Amber Bar An Nada Barcode Brazil Lounge Burlington Club Bushido Casa Bar Champions Lounge Cocoon Lounge Déjà Vu Downtown Flamingo Bar It’s Trendy L’Bar Latin Quarter Le Bellevue Muju Shift7 The Boatyard Bar Trader Vic’s Typhoon Vertigo Vintage Wine Bar Zodiac Lounge

17 636-419 17 533-533 33 477-088 17 826-686 17 580-000 17 583-555 17 584-400 17 360-000 17 827-600 13 657-770 17 227-777 17 460-056 17 727-230 17 567-222 17 814-777 17 298-008 16 039-800 17 313-333 17 701-201 17 586-555 17 746-395 17 845-000 17 746-461 17 565-888

Burak, Gizem, Jolle, Ghassam, Ibrahim & Francioise

Costa, Alfredo & Merih

Alim Eyad & Mohammed

Edel, Ahmed & Munther

Fransesco

Sorrel & Kristy

Night Club Club Mynt Glamour Lounge Tempo Wrangler

17 814-777 17 827-999 17 296-699 17 827-600

Pub Restaurant Club Buffalo Club F1 Davy Crockett’s Dublin Harvesters Henry’s Café JJ’s Irish Kicks Rock Bottom Café Sherlock Holmes The Exchange The K Lounge The Warbler

17 826-001 17 296-464 17 810-555 17 811-688 17 531-122 17 716-999 17 717-370 17 810-555 17 727-230 17 742-450 17 742-000 17 360-000 17 290-600

Ali Al Zayani, Maneesh & Mohammed

Maria & Oksana

Joelle, Ghassam, Burak & Gizem

Francoise & Serkan

Shiva, Alastair & Rajiv

George & Claus

Hatem & Nancy

Sports Bar Chillers C. Club Cosmo Lounge Good Fellas Legends Olympic Sports Bar Polo Lounge Shooters Tracks Sports Bar

17 296-660 17 535-000 17 727-230 17 811-688 17 826-001 17 290-600 17 725-000 17 296-699 17 531-122 Shiva, Yousif & Mohammed

158 November 2011 BTM

Talal, Nader & Fahad

Jessica & Alfredo

Nancy

reportmedical

Ensuring Your Health Maryam A. Toorani Bahrain’s choice of medical care facilities is expansive to say the least; each competes, to our benefit, with the latest technologies, medicines and procedures to ensure you and your family stay happy and healthy.

It is easy to forget that your health requires great care and consideration, something that we are all guilty of overlooking.

Timely medical check-ups are important to schedule in and have prevented life destroying diseases and illnesses for centuries. Just as important is choosing the right health centre for you and your family so that everybody feels cared for and attended to.

Luckily for us here in Bahrain, the continuous economic and technological developments in and around the region has prompted a surge of options to choose from so that you can find the right medical care. Today, you will find you are offered a vast array of differing facilities, each providing alternative treatments and procedures to suit you.

Al Kindi Specialised Hospital Dedicated to delivering exceptional patient-orientated health care, the Al Kindi Specialised Hospital adheres to its philosophy “make no compromises� when it comes to health, and encourages its patients to do the same. The hospital, which opened in 2008, provides dedicated treatments, particularly for diabetics, children and the obese.

It also contains departments focusing on cosmetic surgery, gynaecology and physiotherapy.

Currently, the hospital staffs around 30 professionally qualified officials, each practicing medicine according to the highest international standards. E Call 17 240-461.

American Mission Hospital One of the oldest private hospitals in Bahrain, the American Mission Hospital (AMH) continues to provide only the best in health care services. The AMH team is formed from qualified and experienced doctors, nurses and staff who work together with a uniformed approach. Anaesthesiology, dermatology, ENT, orthopaedics, radiology and obstetrics are a few departments that the hospital specialises in, and there is also a dedicated dental department.

In addition to maintaining its century-long commitment to provide quality and affordable medical services to all, the hospital also participates in helping the wider community with fund-raisers and a health magazine released three times per year.

E Call 17 253-447.

Featured

162 x Royal Bahrain Hospital - 163 x Marafie Clinic - 164 x Bahrain Specialist Hospital - 165 x Ibn Al Nafees Hospital

BTM November 2011 159

reportmedical Ibn Al Nafees Hospital Since its conception in 2001, the Ibn Al Nafees Hospital has become a dependable source of medical care for locals and residents. The hospital boasts a huge number of services to treat most complaints — general surgery, obstetrics, orthopaedics, cardiology, dental care, neurology and dermatology are just some of the main departments.

A recent expansion has seen the addition of new hospital services including a dedicated gastroenterology centre, two additional operating theatres and two new labour rooms. This multiple-disciplined hospital has a wide range of consultant doctors and full in-house support so you are guaranteed good care whatever procedure you are in for. E Call 17 828-250.

Bahrain Specialist Hospital Founded in 2002, the Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH) has established itself as a hospital that goes beyond the practice of general medicine. A combination of medical and surgical services together with internationally trained personnel and a 24-hour service places BSH as a prime contender in the Kingdom’s medical field. As its name suggests, the medical centre provides specialist care in a huge range of fields including diabetes, diet and obesity, pediatrics and ENT. BSH also specialises in cosmetic surgery, gynaecology and physiotherapy and has the provision for laparoscopic surgery including bariatric procedures. An added facility at BSH is an advanced IVF procedure. E Call 17 812-000.

Dr Anwar Al-Alaiwat Clinic Dr. Anwar Al-Alaiwat is a renowned consultant surgeon specialising in plastic, reconstructive and burns surgery. His clinic offers a large variety of plastic surgery options, such as the ‘lunchtime’ slimming option which uses non-invasive ultrasonic liposculpture to help you lose up to 12 litres of fat in just ten sittings. Or you can opt for invasive liposculpture, skin tightening, tattoo removal, the treatment of acne scars using and hair removal with Epilight technology.

Whether it is something you were born with, something that developed through the effects of nature, or whether it occurred due to trauma, the clinic ensures patients that anything can be improved. E Call 17 242-528.

German Orthopaedic Hospital State-of-the-art orthopaedic healthcare is offered at the German Orthopaedic Hospital, where world renowned orthopaedic surgeons and medical staff from the Federal Republic of Germany tend to your needs. The team includes surgeons, anaesthetists, physiotherapists and nurses who have extensive expertise in orthopaedics and rehabilitation.

Offering the best of rehabilitation services, the hospital’s main area of focus is conservative and surgical orthopaedics, sports medicine, internal medicine (cardiology), for pre-and post-operation care, and pain therapy. E Call 17 239-989.

160 November 2011 BTM

Marafie Skin and Laser Clinic The Marafie clinic is the number one place to go for any dermatology concerns, as it focuses purely on skin and laser treatments. The clinic is equipped with the most advanced laser machines for hair removal, non-ablative facial rejuvenation and resurfacing and laser treatment for broken veins.

Headed by founder Dr Hanann Marafie, the clinic ensures its patients get the privacy they desire and provides some of the best cosmetic treatments available in the market. Crystal and chemical peels, fillers and botox, non-surgical fat and cellulite reductions and non-invasive face and body lifting are only some of the procedures available. E Call 17 585-373.

Royal Bahrain Hospital This 65-bed, multi-specialty hospital facility provides care in a huge variety of common ailment areas, including; orthopaedics, ENT, internal medicine, cosmetic and plastic surgery, dentistry, physiotherapy, pediatrics, urology, radiology and general surgery. There is also a range of 24-hour services, including a clinic, ambulances and a pharmacy, so whatever the time you can get the care you need.

Among its unique services are foetal medicine, advanced cosmetic treatment facilities and perinatology. The hospital features many new technological advancements including an Alice five-sleep lab, an eight-bed ICU, a 16-slice CT scan and 4D ultrasound technology. E Call 17 246-803.

reportmedical ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL

Preventing Foetal Complications Every parent-to-be wants a healthy baby; a first trimester screening can help this become a reality by allowing doctors to look out for any pregnancy risks.

By simply receiving a few ultrasound examinations (U/S) throughout the course of pregnancy, you can help to deter many common problems which may occur after conception. One of the first indications towards a baby’s health can be established by verifying whether or not it has a normal chromosome set and no organ abnormalities; easily identifiable through using U/S. Also essential is the prevention of a preterm delivery and ensuring maternal health, that involves taking care of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, and determining which mothers have high-risk pregnancies. Nowadays, every couple should be offered a first trimester U/S to spot arising problems and to accurately determine the estimated date of delivery.

When it comes to multiple pregnancies, the earlier the foetuses are detected, the better. If foetuses share a single placenta then there is an increased risk for pregnancy complications when compared to foetuses with their own placenta.

The U/S examination can also be used to assist older women with their pregnancies. This procedure identifies mothers at high risk for abnormal chromosomes or other pregnancy complications.

After genetic counselling, invasive genetic testing can be offered and finally a detailed organ scan at 20-22 weeks completes the risk assessment. If U/S shows a normal intrauterine pregnancy and no soft markers for abnormal chromosomes, a sensitivity of up to 96 per cent can be achieved for finding chromosomally abnormal babies without invasive testing. “The risk of having a Down Syndrome baby, increased with age. Example a 25 year old woman has a risk of 1:1352 whereas at 35 years the risk is 1:356 and at 40 it is 1:97,� says Dr. Heli Spalding of Royal Bahrain Hospital. E Call 17 246-800.

162 November 2011 BTM

MARAFIE CLINIC

Get Younger Skin Now With the breakthrough advancements in the cosmetics field, smooth wrinkle-free skin is now a procedure that you can even do in your lunch break!

The latest FDA-approved skin tightening technology is available at Marafie Clinic.

This works to correct mild to moderate facial wrinkles by heating the deep layers of your skin using advanced radiowave technology.

The procedure has been proven to be harmless to the top layer of the skin; instead the heat causes the collagen in your skin to contract and tighten causing Dr Hanann Marafie new collagen to be produced.

Dr Hanann Marafie explains the benefits, “The result is an improvement in skin quality, firmness and tightness you can see and feel. It can be used to treat the skin on the face, including the eye area or any part in the body like, for example, lax abdomen.”

As there is no need for anaesthetic, patients would only feel a deep warming sensation each time the handpiece touches the area being treated. “You’ll be able to describe the depth of the feeling to us, which actually will help to ensure the best possible results,” says Dr Hanann.

The treatment is non-invasive meaning that the possible side effects are usually only treatment site related like-mild discomfort during the procedure or small amounts of swelling and redness which typically resolves within six to 72 hours.

A full facial treatment would take up only between 30 to 45 minutes and so it fits perfectly into the busy woman’s schedule. Results can be seen immediately after the first treatment and can last up to three to four months.

E Call 17 585-373.

BTM November 2011 163

reportmedical

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

A Younger You The options available for improving the skin’s appearance are endless.

Bahrain Specialist Hospital provides you with everything you need for a younger, fresher look.

Dr. Hala Abdou Al-Abetah

Sun exposure, acne and ageing can leave your skin tone uneven, wrinkled, spotted or scarred, which are often unavoidable problems. In order to help combat this, Bahrain Specialist Hospital offers a solution — chemexfoliation, or in English, a chemical peel.

The treatment has now been used for a number of years and is still growing in popularity. The chemical or derma peel works by using a chemical solution to achieve a smoother and younger look through removing the damaged outer layers of the skin to finish with an even texture. Although it is one of the least invasive techniques to improve the appearance of the skin, a derma peel can drastically reduce acne scars, wrinkles, freckles, sun damage and even pigmentation.

After the peel, you are left with a newly generated layer of smooth skin that is also temporality sensitive, so it is important to take care of your skin after. “Moisture, moisture, moisture! A water spray can also be used to keep treated areas cool, sun protection is also highly important and picking delays the healing process” says Dr. Hala Abdou Al-Abetah, dermatologist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital.

Choose wisely There are two chemical peel options available; a superficial chemical peel and a moderate depth peel.

The former is a minor procedure and no special arrangements

164 November 2011 BTM

are needed, although painkillers, sedation, local anaesthesia or even a general anaesthesia may be used for deeper peels.

“First the face is thoroughly washed to remove surface oil.

The peeling agent is then applied for several minutes. It stings — how badly and for how long depends on the chemical, its concentration, whether you've had pre-treatment with aspirin, and individual factors. A fan can help. The peel is then neutralised, and the burning sensation lessens”.

Superficial peels result in mild facial redness and occasional swelling which usually resolve within 48 hours, similar to sunburn. For most people, normal activities can be resumed shortly after and also make-up can be applied a few hours after the procedure.

On the other hand, a moderate depth peels result in intense inflammation and swelling, which resolve within a week. Most people would take a week off from work as the peeling is more marked where mild redness can persist for several weeks.

“Complications are highly uncommon. But antibiotics may be needed for infection due to bacteria, yeast or virus. Scarring may result from infection or picking the scabs, and can be permanent. Blotchy pigmentation is most likely in those with darker skin or who had a pigmentation problem before the peel; keep out of the sun and use hydroquinone”.

E Call 17 812-000.

IBN AL NAFEES HOSPITAL

Quality Medical Care Since its inception in 2001, Ibn Al Nafees Hospital has established itself as one of the most reliable quality private healthcare providers in Bahrain.

Last year, Ibn Al Nafees Hospital (INH) completed an expansion to its current facilities at a cost of approximately BD2.5 million. The expansion introduced a dedicated Gastroenterology Centre and two additional operating theatres that included a large orthopaedic theatre and a smaller one for carrying out minor procedures.

The Radiology Department added CT and MRI equipment as well as the latest hi-tech Bone Mineral Density machine, which are capable of performing highly specialised and accurate investigations and the hospital guarantees reporting within 48 hours. The Two new labour rooms were also added with the latest birthing aids as well as a special care baby unit and a modern nursery.

The fully equipped and sophisticated departments include a laboratory, physiotherapy, obstetrics and gynaecology, cosmetic surgery and a 24-hour clinic to name a few.

With plans to upgrade and renovate the existing hospital, INH is also excited to announce that it will be conducting further expansions in the near future in the areas of cardiology, pulmonary and sleep disorders by adding new tests and services. With a 300-plus working force that is made up of 40 per cent Bahrainis, INH’s aim is to harness as much as possible the skills of the local labour market.

Providing the right mix of services, technology, quality doctors and medical personnel, the hospital’s rebranding campaign reflects the changes that have taken place.

The hospital continues to grow in services but reinforce the message that their spirit and dedication to providing quality private healthcare remains the same. E Call 17 828-282.

BTM November 2011 165

TO ADVERTISE CALL: (+973) 17 564250 - (+973) 39 477727

D.I.Y. depilation

What’s New Edited by Alison Coldridge

Philips’ innovative hair removal system allows you to be rid of unwanted hair before it has even appeared. Intense pulsed light prompts the hair follicles into the resting phase so hair sheds naturally — simple!

Available at Fakhroo & Brothers.

Pure angel This fresh eau de toilette from Thierry Mugler is enriched with the energising scent of bergamot and fused with red berries and a hint of pepper, creating a sensationally tangy, yet sweet, scent.

Available at leading outlets.

Second skin Sisleya’s new anti-ageing lift foundation is remarkably sheer and claims to be as silky as actual skin, due to the silicone gum ingredient.

Soft-focus microscopes diffuse light in all directions, blurring wrinkles and ultimately correcting visible signs of ageing.

Available at Jashanmal & Sons.

The clincher This collection of multi-coloured striped belts from Kenzo ensures that all indecent exposure is avoided, whilst still maintaining an effortlessly stylish everyday look that injects fun into your outfit and breaks up dull tones. Available at Kenzo.

Time keeper Created with a flexible rubber strap, this Smalto timepiece is non-restricting and comfortable to wear all day and whilst playing sport. It also features useful elements, aside from the time, including the date and a timer.

Available at A La Mode.

BTM November 2011 167

marketplace

ASIA JEWELLERS

A True Gem Style-setting brand Pomellato heralds its success to luxury jewels and intricate design securing its place today as one of the leading jewelers worldwide.

Italian jewellery brand Pomellato is ahead of the game with seasonal collections entirely fitting of the trends visible on the catwalk. The latest collections include two dominant styles — bold tones and vintage opulence.

The Capri collection incorporates the boldest and brightest of tones to spice up any outfit with a burst of colour. Take your pick from every gem imaginable; rubies, sapphires and coral form the pendant at the end of an elongated gold chain, or opt for a jewel-encrusted ring with a large gemstone as the main eye-catcher.

The Victoria collection is ideal for those who are drawn to more timeless and period pieces of jewellery. The designs are more elaborate and classic, and neutral tones are used.

Pomellato attributes its success to maintaining four cornerstones; creativity, research, consistent style and careful brand policy — all of which co-exist to build the “Pomellato style”.

Pomellato will be exhibited at Jewellery Arabia, held in the Kingdom this month.

E Call 17 581-444.

168 November 2011 BTM

ASIA JEWELLERS

Jewels of Nature Animalistic influence is strong throughout the entire jewellery collection by Paolo Piovan as nature’s creatures are glorified and jewel-encrusted for that ultimate accessory.

It is clear to see what Paolo Piovan Gioielli first took inspiration from over 40 years ago whilst travelling the globe. To this day, all of the brand’s acclaimed pieces of jewellery are formed into shapes of animals or features aspects of nature. The originally family-run business has been successfully thriving since by creating unique jewellery encrusted with gemstones, which continues to pay tribute to Paolo’s Venetian identity fused with a strong personal taste and an unwavering quality of workmanship.

All of Paolo’s creations are manufactured under his meticulous eye in his Paduan atelier.

The designs are so intricate that they include only the highest quality of gemstones and each jewel is fully handmade, made individually to satisfy all clientele.

Paolo Piovan jewellery will be exhibited at Jewellery Arabia, held in the Kingdom this month.

E Call 17 581-444.

BTM November 2011 169

marketplace

SKECHERS

Shapely Footwear Run like the stars with the new Shape-ups LIV footwear from Skechers.

Exercising is made easy and stylish with the latest line of lightweight-footwear from renowned athletic brand — Skechers. Inclusive of natural stride technology, this brand’s collection gives you fluid transitions by stressing on barefoot motions when you walk, jog or run.

Many celebs are also fans of Skechers. Reality-show stars Kim Kardashian and her mother Kris Jenner are often spotted in their Shape-ups S2 LITE and LIV, selecting them as their exercise shoe of choice. The brand is also endorsed

by Dancing with the Stars’ co-host Brooke Burke, who modeled for the shoe range back in 1995.

Skechers are ideal for women of all ages, providing elegance and comfort whilst conducting your daily work-out.

E Call 16 686-212.

170 November 2011 BTM

Timeless Fashion

BHS

This season, Bhs is emerging as a strong contender in the high street style charts with exemplary collections for the whole family in keeping with the current trends.

This season Bhs is taking its fashion back in time with an emergence of timeless classics ideal for building up your autumn/winter wardrobe.

The women’s collection brings back the style of decades gone with a definite nod to the ‘60s and ‘70s.

The ‘60s-inspired range is ruled by dominant patterns such as stripes, stars, florals and polka dots which are printed on shift dresses and blouses. The main colours used in this collection are red, black, ivory and camel.

The ‘70s collection makes use of rich jewelled colours and mingled with an autumn/winter palette, adorning wide leg trousers, billowing sleeves and statement coats that pop colours.

Men are encouraged to suit up with a wide selection of suit styles, available in all classic monochrome colours.

Double breasted tailoring creates a slimmer and straighter silhouette, giving a more structured and contoured look.

Chunky wool knits are ideal for casual wear, starving the cold weather off in a stylish manner.

The little ones aren’t left out of the style war either. The ‘60s trend has blended into the children’s collections; keep them cosy and cute in ditsy floral prints for the girls and nautical striped tees for the boys.

E 17 582-258 (Seef Mall), 17 179-694 / 17 179-672 (BCC) and 17 702-394 (The Centre, Nuwaidrat).

BTM November 2011 171

marketplace MASSIMO DUTTI

Rustic Vibe Rich colours, weighted fabrics and contemporary accessories make up Massimo Dutti’s country-esque autumn/winter collection.

The masculine look This season, the folk look is revisited with a preppy spin as plaid shirts embroidered with suede elbow patches are matched-up with straight-legged chinos. It’s a real ‘man’ look that keeps warm autumn clothes looking cool.

A whisky-toned leather jacket gives the look an urban twist, while sturdy suede boots become the ultimate long-lasting versatile footwear.

Lady of the manor The feminine look is one that is constantly lingering, but Massimo Dutti has brought it into the light with serious panache. Midi to long skirts flow over the hips and tighten up at the waist highlighting any woman’s hourglass figure, while a deep red-wine shift dress embellished with vertical stitching gives an elongated appearance. You can always add a touch of androgyny if it is too womanly for you with a fitted leather jacket, complete with a shearling-lined collar and plaid lining.

E Call 17 583-230 (Seef Mall) or 17 172-325 (BCC).

172 November 2011 BTM

redtag

Imaginative Designs This season, RedTag fuses vintage styles with modern trends to create collections for men, women and children to enhance any wardrobe.

RedTag’s winter collection centres on numerous themes; each including imaginative takes on trends from decades past and also contemporary creations. The brand understands that fashion is a creative aspect of your daily life and has created a collection that taps into your creativity with versatile pieces that can be assembled in alternative ways to suit you own personal style. You imagine yourself in a certain way, and RedTag’s winter collection helps you get there.

The different looks and themes in the winter ranges for him, her and kids take inspiration from global fashion trends to keep you looking ‘of-the-minute’ and chic. One of these themes is based upon international designs; from Canada to Sweden, a whole new inspiration emerges with a distinct influence from nature and our surroundings. This theme uses a raw palette of frosty landscape colours combined with a smattering of animal prints.

A second theme is basic essentials. These can be worn simply as they are, with no need for any pattern, embellishment or additions. The styling, design, colours and fabrics used are incredibly versatile and simple, engulfing one of the season’s top trends of minimalism.

An evening collection provides the whole family with fun items to wear out. This collections stems primarily from the use of colour; bright, bold and jewelled tones are used to spice up any wardrobe. Key shapes include leggings, off-the-shoulder tops, colourful striped tees, and varsity jackets. The entire range has a strong ‘80s vibe with an emphasis on building up a playful wardrobe that can be customised to your own liking.

RedTag takes you back in time with a second vintageinspired collection. Lace garments, pastel colours and delicate fabrics evoke nostalgia yet the items are created in a modern manner, with shorter cuts and altered sleeves ensuring each piece can be worn throughout the day and night.

E Call 17 556-430 (Bahrain Mall), 17 681-992 (Isa Town Mall) and 17 162-188 (BCC).

BTM November 2011 173

marketplace NINE WEST

Animal Magic Leopard print, snakeskin and foxtails on handbags — the world is animal obsessed!

Nine West stores have long been a destination for high quality, fashion forward shoes and handbags. Well this season’s offerings are just as luxurious as they ever were and are nothing short of bang on trend!

If you had your eye on the Autumn/Winter shows, you’ll have noticed that many of the designers had one thing in common — a fascination with animals. Whether they were inspired by the coats of the big cats, the skin of the serpents, the hides of the larger beasts or the fur of any of the mammals; animal characteristics have turned up everywhere!

Nine West have not been shy about their love of this trend. They have produced a brilliant array of animal-inspired items. If leopard print is your thing, then be sure to have a look at their cute peep-toe pumps. If you prefer the snakeskin effect, they have some exciting wedges in a variety of deep jewel tones. However, if you are bold enough, you have to get your hands on one of their faux foxtail evening bags — a truly stand-out item!

E Call Bahrain City Centre 16 686-207, Bahrain Mall 16 686-228, Seef Mall 16 686-220.

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THE HOME STORE

Entirely Stylish Décor

The Home Store boasts everything you could need to spruce up your home through the winter months; simply add a few new features or give your house an entire makeover.

Home furniture, furnishings and lifestyle offerings are available at The Home Store; a brand synonymous with elegance and stylish living concepts. The showroom, located in the Bahrain Mall, contains all of your living necessities with a vast spectrum of colour schemes and styles to fit any shopper’s taste. Functional or fashionable, classic or contemporary — there is plenty of choice.

The company has designed and developed options that fit into modern-day home décor needs and the often-changing customers’ lifestyles. Whilst creating products that mirror the changing trends of the seasons, each item is a unique take on the styles seen elsewhere. This season’s autumnal collection plays around with shades of the season — earthy browns, soft blues, sandy beiges and cashmere greys.

There are products to build into any living space; kitchen essentials and utensils, bedroom furniture and accessories, office space fixtures, bathroom units and seating compilations, rugs and television stands to create any main living space.

You can also pick up those little items which enhance any room so easily, such as scented candles, vases, faux-floral arrangements, sculptures and picture frames. Specific lighting is another simple way to improve any room’s ambience and The Home Store has a wide variety of free-standing, table and lamps to purchase. E Call 17 556-001.

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25

New Arrivals

Daily Timings 10am to 10pm BTM November 2011 175

marketplace

ROCHE BOBOIS

Fashionable Designs Luxury home furnishing brand Roche Bobois have enlisted the talents of a world-famous fashion designer to create a distinctive collection to spruce up any living space.

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Roche Bobois’ collaboration with internationally renowned fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier links fashion and interior style in a way like never before. The famed French designer has a decidedly unique style that, together with Roche Bobois’ home furnishing expertise, has produced a unique and sophisticated collection.

Rich in subtle and simple colours, iconic pieces and strong patterns, Jean-Paul Gaultier for Roche Bobois is a collection that is unlike anything we’ve seen before.

Jean-Paul speaks of his designs and explains how he transfers his design skills from one industry to another, “I approach fashion and design in the same way. When you design clothes, you also have to think about the construction, about the way the fabric is going to follow the body, about the way the body moves…So in the end, designing furniture or working on interior design is not that different.”

The pieces he creates are full of French inspiration; featuring nautical patterns intermingled with fashion elements, like the ‘Gaultier’ full-length mirror positioned on a hand trolley for maneuverability. “I never design furniture with a specific customer in mind. I just hope that the public like what I propose to them. Working with Roche Bobois has allowed me to reach towards a wider audience and I find that wonderful,” he says.

An iconic piece from the collection is definitely the Ben Hur chair, which also comes with wheels. “I feel that it is a good

thing that when you’re at home you are able to move things that you love. You have a closet on wheels that you keep in one place and when you decide to change it you just roll it over. With wheels, you are given so many more arrangement possibilities,” explains Jean-Paul of his wheeling craze.

There is also a lot of use of trunks throughout the range, transformed into large wardrobes and chests of drawers.

“I travel a lot and always take huge amounts of luggage with me and came to the realisation that a suitcase is in fact an artwork. I have designed furniture trunks that are beautifully decorated with mirrors and tattoo designs,” he adds.

The partnership between the two iconic brands derived from a mutual love of one another’s work. In fact, Jean-Paul goes so far as to describe it as “a real love story”.

E Call 17 582-901.

Boconcept

Urban Interior Mastery A new home furnishing store is opening this month to spruce up your home with novel and luxurious designs. BoConcept is a master of modernity and will fulfill your décor needs.

High-quality craftsmanship, functionality and simplicity are the key factors that inspired the design and production for Danish furniture company, BoConcept. With an intention to create functional designer furniture at affordable prices, the company has expanded rapidly since its conception in 1952 by firmly making its mark as a retail furniture chain throughout the world, and now BoConcept has arrived in Bahrain.

The company has always had its customer at the forefront of its vision; an urban-minded customer who may have limited space and has a need for serviceable furniture that doesn’t compromise on design. The furniture styles are modern, energetic and very forward-thinking — so you can be sure to be ahead of the interior styling game.

You take your pick from a hugely extensive collection of home furnishing options, from felted rugs to expansive beds with built-in side tables. Shop for additional accessories such as lamps, frames, vases and tableware — each item is uniquely designed and evokes a look of pure opulence.

BoConcept also offers its products to be customised and coordinated to comply with your needs. If you have a minute living space, then the company design consultants and interior designers will assist you in achieving the solution with unparalleled panache.

Additional creativity To further enhance the products available, the brand enlists designs from both upcoming and established interior designers. One such designer is Morten Georgsen who creates multifunctional pieces and draws inspiration from international ‘mega trends’.

His designs ensure that your living space remains clutterfree and minimalist with the creation of the Lecco wall system which includes drop-down doors for easy access to workstations, filing cabinets and sliding doors to hide the television set when it is not in use.

E Visit www.boconcept.com.

BTM November 2011 177

marketplace PHOENICIA DÉCOR

Total Living

The Cambré sofa Exclusive sofa brand Natuzzi offers a welcoming autumn atmosphere and harmonious shapes and colours inspired by nature — ideal for enhancing any living space.

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The autumn designs from Italian furniture company Natuzzi are luxe and exclusive. Within the collection, there is a wide range of upholstered leather sofas to choose from, each constructed from the single idea that a sofa instantly should convert your living space into an area of relaxation.

The company combines detail in design and Italian flair for everyday living. A wealth of styles are offered for every taste and situation from classic to modern, formal to casual and day to night.

The new Natuzzi range of products, designed in the style centre of the group, is born to express beauty and innovation.

But these traits are not enough; every piece is presented in a harmonious way — different materials and colours coexist together to evoke emotion.

Aside from sofas and armchairs, the brand also manufactures a range of furnishing accessories such as lamps, tables, rugs, vases and wall units, as well as dining tables and chairs for the dining room.

The sofas are created by Italian craftsmen using only high quality leather to ensure that each item is long-lasting and, of

course, extremely comfortable. For further comfort, each sofa has an innovative recliner mechanism that, thanks to a special system of little internal cushions, allows the position of the seating to be modified. The backrest and headrest can also be altered with simple and easy movements allowing you to thoroughly unwind in your living space.

Cambré This sofa is a light design just like the name of the dance that inspired it. A thin metallic structure forms the base with clean and comfortable simple volumes providing the seating. The padding is made from foam that ensures unparalleled comfort while the outer fabric is precious leather, which is velvety to touch.

Cambré, just like all other Natuzzi products, demonstrates the culture of beauty meeting with traditional styling to create the perfect combination of style and skillful crafting.

E Call 17 564-444.

Yusif bin yusif fakhro

Grill and Chill Take the chance to enjoy the great outdoors with some alfresco dining courtesy of the Severin electric BBQ collection, which cuts cooking time in half.

German brand Severin has manufactured electronic household appliances for over 60 years with the one simple objective of making daily tasks as seamless as possible. A new collection from the brand ensures this aim is continued whilst cooking in the garden, as Severin introduces an electric barbeque line complete with innovative features.

The range is perfect for bringing people together to enjoy fantastic grilled meals in the garden, when camping or even by the beach. Healthy food is easy to create on a barbeque — and who doesn’t love a burger or two on a sunny day.

The made in Germany brand; Severin, has ensured that all of the styles are dishwasher safe and emit a very low generation of odours and smoke, due to the use of water-filled grill-tray technology.

Barbeques can take place on high-rise balconies or even on the dining room table with a table-top device that can be placed on top of any surface. Thought to be the first of its kind in Bahrain, Severin's charcoal-free table-top grills run on electricity and are chic and smart in design. The barbeques are as compact as possible to ensure minimum outdoor space is taken up and the same is achieved when stored away.

E Call 17 408-150.

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marketplace

Abdulla Al Suwaidi

Protect Your Staff bni

As an employer, you may not be able to prevent accidents, but you can definitely be prepared for them! Insure your domestic worker against any mishap at the workplace with bni’s domestic servants insurance cover.

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Employing a domestic worker brings its own set of obligations and responsibilities. When you have paid staff working at your residence a single accident can leave you, the employer, liable for hundreds or even thousands of dinars in medical bills.

Bringing you peace of mind is bni’s domestic servant insurance policy that enables you to handle any mishap your staff might suffer, be it an accident resulting in disability or even death. “bni provides effective insurance protection for your staff with premiums not exceeding BD1 monthly, BD12 annually and BD17 for two years,” observes Abdulla Al Suwaidi, bni’s general manager, motor and personal lines.

The policy helps you meet your obligations in the event of a worker’s death in an accident, with a guaranteed lump sum compensation of BD2,500, or the minimum requirement laid down by the embassy of the worker’s nationality, to a ceiling of BD5,000 for each worker.

In the event of death due to any other cause, the policy provides for a lump sum amount of BD1,000 for each worker. In

cases of accidental bodily injury, the cover can extend to a percentage of the limit of indemnity if the worker has been permanently disabled.

There’s a provision for a weekly benefit to workers who have been totally disabled temporarily owing to accidents. Here, the worker will receive a payment of BD15 during the disablement period, with a maximum of 104 weeks benefit for every staff.

In event of a worker’s death, the employer need not panic, for the insurer will provide BD800 for repatriation of the body, and contribute BD500 towards the cost of replacing the worker.

Besides this, bni’s domestic servant insurance policy offers cover for loss of limbs, blindness and loss of hearing of a domestic staff. Even though it is not mandated by law yet, insurance cover for domestic workers is critical.

To insure your staff against any such eventuality, walk into the bni headquarters at Seef or any of the bni branches at Sanad, Budaiya, Manama, Hamad Town, University of Bahrain, Isa Town, Sitra, Muharraq and Amwaj Islands or simply log onto www.bnidirect.com.

E Call 17 587-444.

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

More, More, More Bahrain’s largest shopping centre is celebrating its success with the opening of many more shops and dining outlets to ensure all you shopping addicts have something new to buy!

Bahrain City Centre is already brimming with over 340 choices to shop, dine and play; fashion, beauty, books, electronics, food — if anywhere in Bahrain has it, City Centre will. Excitingly for all shoppers, you can feast your eyes on new treats this month as a number of stores have opened their doors and are luring you in with tasty new dishes, catwalk-fresh trends, and enticing cosmetics as internationally famed brands are making their first-ever debut in Bahrain.

Hot on the heels of Fall for Fashion last month, shoppers can revamp this coming season’s head-to-toe wardrobe with casual wear brands Aeropostale and Shoe Express, both unique to Bahrain and are now open. Aeropostale is the ideal go-to for everyday-wear apparel and accessories, designed with teenagers and young adults in mind; Shoe Express manufactures an expansive range of ladies’ footwear offering much larger sizes than other shops.

Beauty and body care shopping options are also having a refreshing boost with the arrival of wildly popular chain Victoria’s Secret, full of enticing fashion-inspired body and beauty products, and perfume. Bath & Body Works is also marking its debut with its own signature collection of delicious fruity and floral perfumes, lotions and home fragrances. For

something a bit more exclusive, perfume specialist Zuhoor Al Reef is offering personalised scents and you can pay N.Spa a visit to perfectly polish your fingers and toes.

When you need some refreshment and a mini-rest, try out the newest burger restaurant, Fat Burger. The self-proclaimed ‘Last Great Hamburger Stand’ brings hearty goodness with its slowcooked, made-to-order burgers. Soon vying for attention will be PappaRoti Café, another first-timer, with its fresh oven-baked, coffee caramel buns to complement their unique blend of signature coffees.

Over the next few months keep your eyes peeled for another new collection of shops opening. Charanga is arriving from Spain and sells high-quality children’s wear for both boys and girls, and there will be an abundance of further ladies fashion stores including QUIZ, Agatha and Anotah in addition to Bahraini-owned Voila Boutique and Noof Boutique.

If you find yourself unable to tear yourself away from Bahrain City Centre, there is also always the option to stay in the newly-opened Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, or you stop off at T-Spoon, the quaint café which opens out onto the ground floor of the mall, for some afternoon tea.

E Call 17 177-771.

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Always Alert CITIBANK

A new service guarantees that all Citibank customers are kept up to date with any transaction or changes made to their account, ensuring total security.

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Citibank Bahrain has recently launched a new and innovative service that aims to enhance your banking experience beyond that of other banks. Fittingly titled Citialerts, the service provides you with real time information whenever a transaction is carried out on your credit card and accounts.

The service has been created with the aim to keep your mind at ease, as the added security method will ensure no activity can be carried out on any account without your knowledge of it.

Customers of Citibank can expect state-of-the-art alert services such as this one to ensure complete security and all are automatically enrolled for the Citialert service upon banking with the company. A notification of this setup is given in the form of a welcome message.

When creating this service, the company also considered the different choice each customer makes in the type of correspondent method used. There are a number of ways in which you can customise the way in which notifications are received, in keeping with the method of contact that you most frequently use. Select from receiving SMS messages straight to your phone, or emails or even both if you prefer. You also have the option of choosing how often notifications are received; this can be on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.

Aside from transaction notifications, Citialerts also offers a host of other user-friendly features, such as notification of salary credits, account balances, cheque deposits and withdrawals, as well as credit card statements. If you decide that you no longer require the alerts, the service can be cancelled or temporarily discontinued by one quick visit to the dedicated Citialerts link on Citibank Bahrain’s website.

Navneet Kampani, consumer bank head explains of the venture; “Citibank Bahrain is renowned for providing its customers with flexible, innovative and secure banking experience. We are the market leaders in our product offering and with the launch of Citialerts, we further reinforce our position in the service and convenience landscape. The launch of this service is in line with our commitment to serving our clients with best in class products and services”.

He added: “We are moving in the right direction to win over our clients and establish ourselves as the best place to bank in the Kingdom. As we grow in Bahrain, we will continue to deliver innovative products and services that work around people's busy working and social lives, while providing the control and peace of mind that their banking needs demand".

A simple solution to achieve peace of mind! E Call 17 582-484.

AMBASSADOR STORES

The Watch to Sport Watch brand Seiko has partnered with FC Barcelona to create a unique and luxurious sports watch, ideal for all those who like to keep time during the game.

In celebration of the Barcelona football team’s partnership with Seiko, the watch brand has created a unique timepiece — the new Sportura FC Barcelona Chronograph (FCBC). This watch is one of the 14 models in Seiko’s leading sports watch collection, Sportura, all of which feature both quartz and kinetic movements.

As every sportsman knows, it is the attention to fine detail that makes the difference between a good performance and a great one, and the same can be said about the creation of a sports watch.

In addition to being practical and easy to use, The Sportura FCBC watch is sleek and classic in design. It features elongated curved lugs that wrap around the wrist with a close and comfortable fit, so there is no risk or it slipping off the wrist whilst playing sport. The entire design of the watch is incredibly accurate, something which Seiko is renowned for; the cone-shaped chronograph buttons have a wide surface area to ensure precise operation and the chronograph minute hand has a ‘pointer’ shape to ensure that the correct number is easily read at a glance.

The watch boasts all the qualities of a first-class sports watch and for the true Catalonian, a discreet FC Barcelona emblem is found on the dial and case back and the red and

blue colours of FCB in the sub-dials and leather strap.

The current UEFA champion’s league title defenders were each presented with their own watch by Seiko. FC Barcelona president, Sandro Rosell, showed great excitement towards this new venture.

“We were very pleased to welcome Seiko as a sponsor of FC Barcelona earlier this year and we are delighted to see how our partnership is growing in every corner of the world. The new Seiko FC Barcelona watch is beautiful and the club is proud to wear it,” Sandro commented on the venture.

Seiko’s partnership with FC Barcelona began this spring when they were appointed as the club's ‘watch partner’ for an initial three-year term. Although watchmaking and football are entirely different industries, both Seiko and FC Barcelona have proven their dedication and perfection to their industry for many years. From the collaboration has emerged a watch that is ideal for both sporting amateurs and professionals to wear.

With 130 years of history designing and manufacturing watches, Seiko holds the skill and experience to design and build, in–house, each component of every type of watch. FC Barcelona also takes a similarly long-term approach to building its teams, developing many of its finest players through their youth academy, La Masia. E Call 17 225-513.

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VLCC

Trim and Slim A new treatment at VLCC health care centre promises a younger looking and slimmer you with no exercise required!

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VLCC health care centre focuses on improving both men and women’s lifestyles by targeting fitness, slimming and beauty with modern technologies. The latest solution offered by the centre promises to help you lose up to an impressive five kgs and five inches in 45 days — best of all, this is accomplished without even breaking a sweat.

The revolutionary treatment is designed to shape the body, ultimately sculpting that figure which you have always longed for. VLCC calls it Duo Therapy, as the treatment combines two groundbreaking technologies to reach its goal; ultracavitation and radio frequency. Ultracavitation therapy reduces the number of fat cells in a targeted area, and radio frequency therapy helps improves fat metabolism, which increases collagen production that helps tone and firm your skin.

VLCC business head Prafull Dwivedi is thrilled by the ways Duo Therapy can alter not just your body, but your life.

“This all-new, innovative treatment is revolutionary in character, and is truly a 21st century body-shaping tool. We are pleased to launch Duo Therapy in Bahrain, as the treatment is offering a platform for all, which can step up an individual’s self confidence considerably, as it helps men and women to achieve the body shape that they have desired for so long,” she says.

The process is carried out through three simple steps. The first step uses low frequency ultrasound to reduce the number of fat cells in the treatment area. The second step

uses a combination of ultracavitation and monopolar radio frequency, and the third step is a combination of monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency, which is generally used in medicine and cosmetic treatments.

“The number of sessions one will need is purely dependent on each body type. Generally speaking, between eight and twelve sessions are necessary and these sessions should be conducted once a week or ideally every ten days to allow sufficient time for the body to break down the byproducts of lipolysis safely,” explains Prafull.

During the course of the treatment, you should be careful to hydrate yourself regularly throughout and after each session, and following a healthy and balanced diet is strongly advised.

As Duo Therapy is launched in Bahrain, anyone can head on down to one of the two centres here — in Zinj and Isa Town — to watch a live demonstration of the procedure.

Whilst at the centre you can pick up hoards of information explaining Duo Therapy as well as all of the other treatments offered.

“Whichever area of your body you wish to focus on, you can arrange a one-to-one consultation with a specialist.

VLCC offers everything from slimming and trimming to cellulite control therapy to skin and hair treatments,” outlines Prafull.

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

New Store, New Scents JUNAID FOR PERFUMES

A steadfast favourite in the Bahraini perfume market, Junaid for Perfumes has confirmed its success with a new outlet opening.

Junaid for Perfumes has established itself throughout the Middle East with a continued expanding line of both Arabic and western perfumes. Deriving originally from Bahrain, the brand has grown considerably throughout the region and is celebrating this with the opening of its 20th store here in Bahrain.

“Despite the current market scenario, Junaid for Perfumes has been witnessing steady sales, primarily due to our attractive and appealing product range, pricing strategy and excellent customer service. The newest addition to our operations reinstates the fact that Bahrain has, and will, continue to be a secure place for establishments to conduct business activities as well as to grow and expand,” says Hamad Fuad, director of marketing and sales.

The new retail outlet is located inside the Kingdom’s most luxurious shopping hive, Moda Mall, and is a reflection of the level of grandeur the brand has reached in recent years. The new branch is adorned with marble floors and the shelves are lined high with new scents in addition to continued classics.

The classic interior design style used is reflected in all of the brand’s outlets and is a recognisable signature look.

The new outlet is predicted to entice both new and existing customers into the world of Junaid for Perfume, “The central location of the outlet is convenient for a great majority of Bahraini residents and is already established as a go-to for high-end purchases. Moda Mall mirrors the level of sophistication which the company upholds and it will surely be one of the most visited stores,” says Mr Hamad Fuad.

A cultural blend Junaid for Perfumes’ products are traditionally inspired by notions of nobility, beauty and opulence, the brand uses natural oils to create long-lasting fine perfumes and essential oils. The latest addition to the collection is called Turath and is available to purchase in the new store. Feminine and flirty, the scent is the ideal light-hearted perfume to freshen up with. It captures an exceptional blend of fruity floral notes with a unique earthy undertone and results in a long-lasting aroma that is delicate yet powerful.

Turath is inspired by a distinctive combination of Arabian and western fragrances. Opening on a top note of classic rose and sweet peach, the charming fragrance reveals a heart of earthy patchouli. The essence finally rounds up on a base note of white musk and vanilla that creates an ambience of true warmth and grace.

The new perfume is encased in a vintage-styled black engraved bottle with a black and gold spray pump, showing the level of luxury that the brand is certain to maintain.

E Call 17 737-007.

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marketplace LIFESTYLE FINE JEWELRY

New Delicates

DESSANGE

Get in Shape Finally, Bahrain has a gym that gives you more bang for your buck. Getting fit has never had as many benefits as Dessange in Adliya has to offer.

Discover the best in cardio and strength-training fitness equipment and be the beneficiary of 15 hours worth of gym access per day at Dessange. Fully equipped with state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment, it also has personal television viewing screens and a wide range of individual resistance stations complemented by an impressive free weights area — ideal for those hoping to achieve a range of fitness goals.

If gyming isn’t your thing, check out their exciting array of exercises including spinning, lunging, meditation, and dancing just to name a few. This is also the only fitness club in the Kingdom to feature TRX, ViPr and Kettlebell circuits. Presenting a total of 16 different classes with everything from body pump to zumba and kickboxing to pilates, the schedule here boasts a whopping 60 sessions per week.

On joining the club, members are entitled to a complete health assessment with a professionally trained instructor who will then formulate an initial personal training programme to ensure that each member gets maximum benefits from their hard work.

Another appealing reason to join lies in the club’s atmosphere. The building is a bright, open space filled with alluring smells wafting up from the Dessange spa and salon.

If you haven’t yet visited this haven of health and wellness facility, feel free to take a tour of the premises during which you can discuss membership rates and other queries in depth.

E Call 17 713-999.

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Gemstones, luxury timepieces and diamonds make up the spectacular collection at LifeStyle Fine Jewelry, a new brand which has arrived on Bahraini shores.

A new brand of luxury jewellery has arrived on Bahrain’s market — LifeStyle Fine Jewelry (LFJ) has opened its doors to usher in crowds.

“Bahrainis are known for their appreciation of fine jewellery and sense of style and we believe that the opening of LifeStyle Fine Jewelry in Ramli Mall, A’ali, will showcase the best global fashion trends in jewellery and timepieces,” says president of the Aaron Shum Group company, Aaron Shum.

The product range showcased at the store includes the coronet solitaire, which is a worldwide patented design of the company. It amalgamates six diamonds on an elevated centrepiece to perform a solitaire effect. The range features rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets, set in varieties of 18-carat white, rose and yellow gold. LFJ uses beautifully vivid coloured gemstones in many of the exclusive pieces, which are cut and polished by internationally-recognised brand Swarovski.

Also featured at the new store are the Inogem and La Posy collections; both highlight opulent gemstones and jewels and reflect the quality that the brand has developed.

The timepiece range is expansive, with popular high-end Swiss brands such as Gemtique and Buler taking prominence and offering many classic and modern styles of watches to opt for.

E Call 17 642-014 or visit www.lifestyle-jewelry.com.

GAJRIA ELECTRONICS

Highly Defined Living

46 inches

32 inches

42 inches

Take your TV home viewing to another level with new designs from long-running internationally acclaimed electronic brand, JVC. In today’s world, a TV set is often the pivotal point of a living space due to the vast viewing options and programmes available. It also brings families together and unites everyone with an evening of entertainment — if you aren’t all fighting over the remote control!

JVC is one such brand that has been manufacturing TV sets for many years and to this day the brand continues to uphold an outstanding record for technological performance, convenience and reliability.

Created by engineering professionals, JVC’s unique light and airy TV designs are a fusion of carefully considered aesthetics and unwavering performance. Designed to be sleek and modern in style, each set enhances a living space with a contemporary feel.

Each JVC television is also packed with advanced technologies, yet the silhouettes of each style remains slim.

A sense of lightness is combined with a certain sharpness that is accentuated by the distinctive ornamental chrome line below the panel, which smartly emphasises the thin, appealing contours. The stands available are also designed to blend in with your room’s décor; each structure features a metallic chrome pillar that acts to mirror interior details around the set.

Beautifully styled and offering superb entertainment potential, JVC create TVs that go far beyond the ordinary.

E Call 17 555-616, 17 225-356 or 17 556-939.

bystanderthismonth

Chaine Des Rotisseurs Dîner Amical The Chaine des Rotisseurs held its Dîner Amical for members and guests at the Tian Restaurant in Adliya last month. The theme for the dinner was 'Asian Glory - Inspirations From South East Asia' and was attended by HE Yves Oudin, French Ambassador & HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

HE Mohan Kumar, Balqees & Khalid Almoayed

Dr Stan, Ching & Shandra

Geraldine, Lani, Michel, Karim & Olivier

Ian, Rosemary & Dr Stan

Mr & Mrs Viehman, John & Guillaume

Marco & Christophe

HE Yves Oudin, Sofyan & Muneera

Farida, Balqees & Liliane

Hugh

Mala & Hilde

David

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listingsthismonth 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

Dance

Ballet Centre Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

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 Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Literature

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Museums

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Other Societies

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

Business Associations American Chamber Comm.

Australian Association Bar Society Bankers’ Society of Bahrain British Business Forum Businessmen’s Association French Business Club

17 580-516 3 9206-432 17 725-665 17 728-003 3 9651-755 17 229-009 17 748-999

Language Courses Alliance Française Berlitz The British Council

17 683-295 17 827-847 17 261-555

Other Associations Baloch Club Garden Club Pakistan Association Skal International Bahrain

17 292-231 17 727-625 3 9415-200 17 22-4050

Sports Recreation Aerobics

Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Ez Fit SportPlex 17 692-378 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Athletics/Running

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

Netball Club

3 9911-848

Pottery

17 786-969 17 599-026

Public Speaking

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs

17 862-620 3 6992-288

Bowling

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Cricket

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Equestrian

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Football & Rugby

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

Social Clubs 17 753-666

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 756-770 17 750-777

Karting

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Marine Sports Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019 Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 Taichi & Wushu Center 17 813-856 Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 Marina Club 3 9690-008 Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 Shotokan Karate 3 9626-211 Yong Quan Tha Chi 3 9667-624 Zen-Do Bahrain 17 611-909

Mind Games

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 836-078 17 700-667

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

17 713-080 17 242-641

Pilates

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine World Beat Fitness Center

17 713-999 17 230-123 17 612-576

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

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 Chess Federation 17 252-133 Cycling Association 17 650-079 Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Football Association 17 729-563 Handball Association 17 720-321 Hockey Association 17 253-209 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 Snooker Association 17 825-301 Swimming Association 17 680-867 Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Volleyball Association 17 271-139

Teens Kids Athletics Road Runners

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

Horse Riding

17 695-911 17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

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

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 17 697-950 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa Crowne Plaza Health Club Golden Tulip Health Club Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel Regency Fitness Centre RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel

17 845-000 17 531-122 17 535-000 17 713-000 17 531-666 17 227-777 36 270-302 17 524-570 17 580-000 17 460-000

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 My Gym Bahrain 17 566-566

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 3 6992-288

Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Football & Rugby

Ghassans Gym Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

Meditation Centres

Racket games

Dance

Ball Games

Golf

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 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

188 November 2011 BTM

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball

Awali Photo Society 17 764-468 Bahrain Photography Club 17 590-551

Bapco Club

Other Indian clubs

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

Photography

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

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

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Music

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

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

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

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379

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 three QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 9) and on Motoring Wheels (page 122).

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Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

1

Who runs the Diplomat Hotel? ___________________________

2

When is Jewellery Arabia held? ___________________________

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

3

What does Basil Fawlty manage? ___________________________

Winner : Aishwari Diona Second Place : Mateen Uddin Shaikh Third Place : Jasmin Abdulla

4

Who is running a turkey festival? ___________________________

Who got it right?

Last month’s solutions

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SCORPIO

Oct 22 – Nov 21

There is no better card suited to your sign than The Moon. It typifies everything you represent and stand for and as such, this month — which is also your month — will see good things come your way in an assortment of guises. Firstly you can look forward to a bit of a financial windfall around the 17th when an item you put up for sale fetches you a higher price than you expected. On the work front a colleague will seek you out for support in a battle of departments and your loyalty, should you agree to give it, will be rewarded at the end with an enhanced job role. You just need to put aside your fears and go with your instincts on this one. Finally on the romance front, an old flame from the past may make a brief reappearance and you could find yourself tempted to reignite dormant passions.

Card of the Month — The Moon For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 This month is going to be all about saying what you feel, even if it does ruffle a few feathers and leave friends and family disgruntled and divided. For too long now you have kept quiet and not expressed your true feelings over a decision that was made in your absence, even though its outcomes have a profound impact upon your day-to-day life.

There will be some who try to bully you once they have absorbed the full impact of your argument but you need to stand your ground and fight your corner to the end. This will turn out to be a pivotal moment in your life and what you do now will have far-reaching effects for some time to come. On a lighter note, a party on the 24th could see you slip into the arms of a long-time admirer.

Card of the Month —The Eight of Swords

Capricorn December 22 – January 18 Time spent in reflection will allow you to see just how much things around you have changed and the recent visit of relatives may make you pine for loved ones who are far away. However, your current state of mind should not be particularly gloomy as there is much to look forward to, especially if you are planning a move to a new property. The chances are that the dream home you have always wanted will finally appear on the market and so long as you put in a sensible bid, there is every indication that you will secure it. Good news in connection with this venture reaches you by post on the 23rd. This should help put any melancholy thoughts to rest and set you up for an exciting next few months.

Card of the Month —The Lovers

190 November 2011 BTM

Aquarius ­January 20 — February 18 A new partnership could be on the horizon but it may not be the kind you were expecting and will serve more as a bridge to other things rather than develop into any kind of long-term relationship. Still, the offer of companionship — even on a purely platonic level— could be exactly what you need at the moment and you would be foolish to turn away the company of others simply because you may still be clinging on to a past hope. You would also do well to curb any physical temptation put in your path since no eventual good will come of it. The 12th could see you asked out to a party where you meet the person already mentioned so make sure you look your best for the occasion.

Card of the Month — The Two of Coins

Pisces February 21 – March 20 For your sign, the Sun signals the end of a traumatic few months in a relationship and the start of good things both in November and the year ahead. If things have not been going too smoothly lately then positive effort is going to bring about positive change. You will find that a little time directed towards the one you love would go a long way to healing any rifts that have been developing. Beware of ignoring this advice since you may suddenly wake one day and discover that it is too late to save what you have! On the work front, try not to take advantage of an understanding boss or you may be left reeling from a surprise attack.

Card of the Month — The Sun

Aries ­March 21 – April 20 This month is going to be all about learning new skills and then putting those abilities into place for the benefit of a career or personal business venture. The good news is that no one catches on faster than you; and so long as your heart is in the endeavour you should have no problems achieving what it is you are after. That doesn’t mean it won’t be challenging but the rewards at the end of it will be substantial. On the health front you should not dismiss a recent complaint that does not seem to be getting any better. Seek out medical advice and try to get the matter addressed as soon as possible otherwise you may find it impacting on the success of your work.

Card of the Month — The Magician

Taurus April 21 – May 20 The key to success for you this month is to keep a clear head and, above all else, ensure you maintain a positive frame of mind. You are of solid stock, Taurus, and very little can shift you from your path once your mind is made up, but even your sign can be hit by a bout of insecurity now and again. If you are feeling at all unsure, then think about the achievements you have already enjoyed as a means of keeping your spirits buoyant. You have a huge amount of potential and only you can stop your dreams from being fulfilled. On the health front, a dental issue will finally be resolved.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Coins

GEMINI May 21 – June 22 For your sign, November is going to be all about romance as someone new and special is about to enter your life, changing it forever. While you might find this difficult to believe right now you should take some time out to think of your situation and you will discover that the signs are already there if you look hard enough. A fleeting glance, a casual smile, a face that always seems to be somewhere close to your field of vision. The seeds have already been sown and you just might not realise it yet. When it does all come together you will probably not be as surprised as you might have expected.

Where it all goes from here is anyone’s guess but from your perspective you just need to take things slowly, no matter how excited you might feel.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Cups

advertisersindex Cancer ­June 21 – July 20 Fire and water never mix well so with Six of Wands in your draw for this month you may have to face up to the challenge of a few obstacles in your way with any endeavour occupying your focus for November. With this in mind, should you have deadlines you need to set, you would be wise to give yourself a little extra breathing space so that you do not disappoint on delivery. If you feel that it would usually take a week then quote for two. On the home front, you may also see progress slowed on some internal improvements and once again you may need to alter your expectations. That isn’t to say you cannot crack the whip where necessary to encourage third parties towards completion but you will feel like you are trying to run through cement.

Card of the Month —The Six of Wands

leo July 23 — August 22 You love to party and where possible push the boundaries to the very limit; but this month could see you going just that little bit too far and having to pick up the pieces later, while wiping away copious amounts of egg from your face! It all stems back to someone massaging your ego — you know what a sucker you can be for compliments — but their intentions are not completely honest and regrettably you will only realise this when it is too late. You’ll just have to put it down to a lesson learned and perhaps exercise a little more restraint or caution for the future. What you will need to do is make things good with a loved one and that could prove to be the biggest challenge of all.

Card of the Month — Temperance

Virgo August 21 – September 22 November is going to be a time of decisions and decision-making on your part; the first and possibly most significant challenge is going to be whether to move home as part of a significant job offer. This could be the key concern you have over accepting a post you recently won and before you commit, you need to talk it through with everyone affected.

In some cases that won’t be just partners but also children and possibly even parents. A happy home is key to a contented work/life balance and you are never going to be able to make it with your career if you have to return to a disgruntled family every evening.

Card of the Month —The Chariot

Fashion & Footwear Bhs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Chloe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Mango . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,3 Massimo Dutti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Peacocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42-43 RedTAG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Financial Institutions bni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Nexus Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Home and Furnishings BoConcept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Home Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Severin) . . . . . . . 73

Hotels & Luxury Apartments Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel . . . . . . . . . 29 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . .113,147 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Ramee Int’l Hotel (Rocky’s Café) . . . . . .111 Ramee Palace Hotel (Dublin) . . . . . . . . 146 The Dragon Hotel & Resort . . . . . . . . . 107

Jewellery & Watches Ambassador Stores (Seiko). . . . . . . . . . . 57 Asia Jewellers (Panerai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Chopard) . . . 11 Cartier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Chanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC,1 Lifestyle Fine Jewelry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Sharif Group (Smalto) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . 161 Ibn Al Nafees Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Libra September 21 – October 21 Its judgment day for many of you this month in a long-running legal battle and although the verdict looks likely to turn in your favour, you won’t get everything quite your own way. Certain conditions will be attached to any final decision; although you may not be happy with that, you should put aside your concerns and celebrate the success of what you have achieved. There is no sense in labouring on what are minor points. On another note, family life could be bringing its own pressures for you and while you strive for your voice to be heard, you need to act like an adult if you want to be treated like one. Throwing a tantrum or even descending into a sulk is not going to help either.

Card of the Month — Judgment

FAMOUS Scorpio THIS MONTH

Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Budget Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 E. K. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . .45,115 Euro Motors (MINI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . . . . . . 51

Other Advertisers Amwaj Marina Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Bab Al Bahrain Souq . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Dessange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC,91 Gajria Electronics (JVC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Gulf Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-21 Juffair Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Junaid for Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Lost Paradise of Dilmun . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mind Mapping Conference . . . . . . . . . . 117 Moda Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17,19 Nestle Talent Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Radio Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168 Seef Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Techno Blue (Samsung). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 VLCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Yateem Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Restaurants and Cafés Block 338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Bushido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35,71 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Flair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Johnny Rockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Kei Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Nuasia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 The Great Kabab Factory . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Tian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

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

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets

● Park Supermarket, Mahooz

● Alosra Supermarket, Saar

● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai

● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop

● Other leading Cold Stores and

● BooksPlus, all outlets

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.

● Burhama Cold Store ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora

Ryan Gosling

Rachel McAdams

Motoring

BTM retail sales outlets

● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain

Anne Hathaway

Marafie Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

BTM November 2011 191

lastword

Defying Gravity JAMES CLAIRE When I was young, I loved everything science fiction; I was, after all, born just a month before Neil Armstrong stepped foot on the moon.

192 November 2011 BTM

Our lifetime was defined by the momentous steps of Neil Armstrong and the Apollo 11 mission; a vision expressed by John F. Kennedy had indeed become a reality.

But by the ‘80s, people started to ask if we really went? Was it one small step for man or one giant lie? Did they really go there? The easiest way to prove this would have been a return within 20-30 years.

It is now over 40 years since we supposedly travelled to the moon. The last of the space shuttle missions has been and gone and some suggest we’ll never go back. Our only hope is now just a few circumferences around our desolate tiny planet.

Billions and billions of dollars have gone into not much, it would seem. Except, now that I think of it, my Teflon frying pan; very little of that cash seems to be trickled down to the ordinary man!

Thankfully the early ocean-going explorers weren’t so inept.

Imagine if Cortes, Cook or others had said, “We found the new world but we should not return for another hundred years, because it’s too expensive.”

In September 2010 the United Nations (UN) appointed a leader for Alien Communications; an astrophysicist, Mazlan Othman, and the head of the UN’s (little-known) Office for Outer Space Affairs (Unoosa).

Well, who knew? If there was one job in the world I could really enjoy, it would be being permanently on salary awaiting the first communications with aliens. I’d even wait by the phone after work hours!

It seems they appointed someone independently as they thought, unlike most Hollywood movies of the type, that it would be unfair if a terrestrial arrived and said, “Take me to your leader.” Our answer better not be, “Which one? We have hundreds.”

We could all go to war trying to determine the best leader, while our space friends awaited the answer. And so, it seems, ET now has a pre-determined leader, when he arrives, who will

speak on behalf of us all.

This is all fine, but it sounds a bit like an ageing male sitting around the house waiting for a date; it’s just never going to happen if you don’t get out there and socialise.

And, as a planet we have stopped socialising. Since the early ‘70s when the Apollo moon landing series ended, so too have our dreams. Millions and billions have been spent on space through NASA , the European Space Agency and the Russian, Chinese and other countries’ own explorations, but we have collectively achieved nothing and are going nowhere even faster.

Perhaps NASA does stand for ‘Need Another Space Alternative’, because the current one doesn’t seem to have a clue.

Why is it that we don’t desire to seek outside our territory more? Why don’t some of the globe’s billionaires do more toward privatising space flight? Have we let the dream die?

Have we lost the schoolyard hunger and the memories of Star Trek and Lost in Space already?

I don’t particularly want to wait around for aliens to come here; I hate having visitors at home, I much prefer to go to their house and enjoy something new. But this is not just about us. Surely we owe too much to those who were the true explorers of space, the ones who lost their lives in the pursuit of our space dreams.

On addressing the nation after the Challenger disaster in 1986, Ronald Reagan stated, “They slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God.” There are few quotes that leave an indelible mark upon your soul; that is most definitely one of my favourites, though.

I’d give anything to be able to slip the surly bonds of earth and to feel the release of absolute freedom from our planet’s gravity. On a recent vacation I watched a paraglider effortlessly lift from the beach to sky. I wanted to be a bird and follow.

I believe gravity defies us the emotional releases we seek.

We are so busy in life trying to find ourselves, travelling to Nepal or India or other far away lands to find Nirvana, but I don’t believe it can happen while we remain earthbound.

In my lifetime we have ended supersonic flight and the Concorde, Apollo and space shuttle missions. To lose any hope at all of interplanetary exploration would deny future generations of the ability to dream, to aspire and to seek the true lightness of being that we all deserve, as we slip the bonds of gravity in our respective search for hope.

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