Bahrain This Month - October 2011

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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October 2011 ~ Vol. 15 ~ Issue 10 www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Binding Tapestry Northern Governorate

Featured This Month: Think Pink HSBC Grassroots Rugby International Music Festival HAPPENINGS ­ ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

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Issue 170

Contents October 2011 Cover Story:

57 A Binding Tapestry The Northern Governorate is where many on the island call home; it’s the largest and most populated of all the

23

governorates, and hosts many of the Kingdom’s heritage sites.

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

74

29

23 Music Festival: Melodies that challenge 26 Grassroots: A legend promotes rugby 28 Think Pink: Raising awareness never ceases 38 A Salute to Islam: Interpretations of culture 42 Engaging Online: Social media chatterboxes 44 Pony Club: Learning the reins 46 GCC Celebration: Regional sports competition 23-46 Calendar: Events during October

Diplomatic Talk:

74 All Round Progress The Malaysian ambassador to Bahrain, Ahman Shahizan Bin

80

40

Abd Samad, sees plenty of potential for a significant increase in trade with his country.

Spotlight:

76 All for the Laughs Imran Al Aradi aims to build an entertainment business that more than punches above its weight; Punchline Media will be a promotional vehicle for local talent.

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Business:

Bystander

For start-up and emerging businesses in this region securing

At BTM we celebrated with the Indonesians and Malaysians, and enjoyed a night out with the Thais, tucking into a food festival at the MĂśvenpick Hotel. As Ramadan drew to a close, we managed to catch up with a few final iftars and ghabgas, as well as a couple of parties and wedding ceremonies.

Animania was all the rage at Adhari Park; the Nissan Juke also caused a stir!

80 Financing Good Ideas investment remains a formidable task; fortunately there are angels, as Hasan Haider explains.

82 Setting Benchmarks In charge at the Sofitel hotel in Zallaq, Bert Plas believes the services and facilities offered by his hospitality property will resonate with local residents.

BTM October 2011 5

Bahrain City Center 17172316

Issue 170

Contents October 2011 Feature:

Northern Governorate

85

57 Jaffar Bin Hasan Bin Rajab tells us about his governorate 60 Batelco’s Rashid Adbulla speaks about bringing the future forward 62 What to see and do in the north of the Kingdom 64 Where to dine and chill out along the Budaiya Highway

Downtime:

57

108

85 Doodle Frenzy: Facebook seeks to keep customers 86 Gadgets: Inspection time 88 Young Achiever: Wadeeah Ahmed 90 Music: Nothing but ashes 92 Computer Games: Resisting a charm offensive 93 DVDs: First-grade bridesmaids 94 Websites: Burning the copy 95 Movies: Avenging barbarians 96 Sat TV: Hysteria in Wysteria!

Motoring: 107 New Dimension: Kia GT 108 Test Drive: Range Rover Evoque 111 Showcase: Skoda clever clogs

Dining: 127 Leila: Lebanese roots 128 Happenings: Movers and shakers 129 Showcase: Teppanyaki at Bushido

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137

After Dark: 137 Champions Lounge: Championship material 138 Happenings: Tributes, parties and more 140 Showcase: Trader Vic’s new Mai Thai

Showcase: 38

42

44

157 158 159 160

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115 Home Furnishing: Looks for the season 149 What’s New: Penning the essentials 150 Marketplace: Latest products and services

Listings WIN WIN AD Index Last word BTM October 2011 7

TOD’S BOUTIQUES • MANAMA: MODA MALL, TEL. +973 17131090 • BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE: SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, TEL. +973 17172000

The team

Bahrain This Month October 2011

Publisher and Managing Editor George F. Middleton 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

Dear Readers,

Contributors James Claire (dining), Robyn van der Merwe (design) Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar

For some reason summer does not appear to have been a real ‘summer’ this year; there’s been a noticeable absence of the humidity we normally expect at this time of the year. Perhaps there’s something to El Nino after all!

In the search for our own El Dorado — the mythical city of gold that has never been found — we should, nevertheless, appreciate that our adventures often result in more meaningful conclusions. As the infamous Spanish explorer Francisco de Orellana set out to locate El Dorado in the 16th century, he landed up becoming the first person to navigate the length of the Amazon River, opening up a new vista.

In our feature on the Northern Governorate, Rashid Abdulla, the chief executive of Batelco’s Bahrain operations and a major employer in this part of the island, has come full circle in his voyage of discovery. In almost four decades working for the telecom operator he demonstrates being modern is not the sole reserve of the young.

There is symmetry between the challenges Batelco and its employees have faced in recent times and the issues the Kingdom has had to address this year; how the company has approached these offers a map to the future. The Northern Governor, Jaffar Bin Hasan Bin Rajab, hopes the future will also include a devolvement of power to the governorates to more effectively manage their own affairs.

The events we have profiled this month — the Bahrain International Music Festival, Think Pink awareness month, the Bahrain 11 games and the HSBC grassroots rugby programme — offers evidence that confidence is starting to ebb back. We also interview Hasan Haider amd Imran Al Aradi, both of whom are focused on getting new ventures off the ground.

As do Faisal Kanoo, with the opening of the uniquely-themed Champion’s Lounge, at The K Hotel, and Global Food Concepts, as they launch their third dining venture on the island — Leila Restaurant.

There’s also plenty of action this month after dark, with tribute acts and visiting DJs featuring strongly at many venues around town. If you are itching to get out after work, our theme night dining and entertainment listings offer plenty of options.

These, and the many other activities taking place this month, allow us to continue to enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

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.

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YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

October 2011 ~ Vol. 15 ~ Issue 10 www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Binding Tapestry Northern Governorate

Featured This Month: Think Pink HSBC Grassroots Rugby International Music Festival

George F. Middleton Publisher and Managing Editor email: george@bahrainthismonth.com

Cover

Cover Picture: Trick or treat this halloween!

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

BTM October 2011 9

bystanderthismonth

Indonesian Embassy Eid Al Fitr Celebration The Indonesian Embassy in Bahrain & Agus Salim, Charge d'Affaires, and Sukma Salim, hosted a reception to celebrate Eid Al Fitr. The celebration held at the Embassy was attended by other ASEAN countries diplomats and members of the Indonesian community

Witchu, Zahra, Agus, Sukma & HE HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador

Agus & Sukma Salim with guests

Agus, Sukma & Zahra Salim with Ahmed Haji Jumat, Charge d'Affaires of Brunei Darussalam, Embassy family's

Agus & Sukma with HE Ahmad Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador, his wife & Malaysian Embassy officials

Agus & Sukma with Mr & Mrs Hafedh Abdulghaffar

Sukma Salim with some members of the Indonesian community

Sukma Salim with the wives of ASEAN country diplomats

Agus & Sukma with Indonesian community members & guests

12 October 2011 BTM

TEPPANYAKI a sizzling dining experience only at Bushido

bystanderthismonth

Malaysian National Day & Eid Celebrations HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador & the Malaysian Embassy hosted a dinner reception for members of the Malaysian community to celebrate Malaysia's 54th National Day and Eid Al-Fitr.

The dinner was held at HE's official residence in Jasra last month

HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad cut the celebratory cake

Doris, Masuma, Nor, Salimah, Nadia & Lea

Maheran, Putri, Tasnim, Hasleena & Amna

Suhaimi, Ayob, Shahafez, HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Nor, Nadia & Salimah

Ayoob, Zul & Miswadi

14 October 2011 BTM

Natasha, Farah & Robert

Danish, Adzka & Azyal

Rosman & Semsari

Junaina & Noni

Rashida, HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Hussain & Nor

HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad with members of the Malaysian community

Alia, Fiqa & Fina

George & HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad

Fatim & Shasya

Aznir & Ahmed

Ariena & Marsya

Nadia & Shahafez

Nawaal & Farid

Mohammed & Salimah

Muharraq 17341426 Gosi Mall 17293993 Seef Mall 17582244 Bahrain Mall 17554897 Bab Al Bahrain 17217732 Al Riffa 17763403 Souq Waqef - Hamad Town (1) 17412450 Hamad Town (2) 17410886 City Centre 17178307

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bystanderthismonth

Chopard Boutique Launched Under the patronage of HE Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Swiss luxury brand Chopard, in partnership with Bahrain Jewellery Centre held a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the opening of the Chopard Boutique in Moda Mall. The event was also attended by Caroline GruosiScheufele, Chopard co-president

HE Shaikha Hessa opens the boutique

Dr Abul Qassim Shirazi, Dhawiya, Ahmed, Shaikha Nadia & Mohammed

Dhawiya, Deena, Shaikha Nadia, Sausan & Rahma

Gopi, Mohammed, Iqbal, Naushad, Ahmed & Abbas

Helen, Rana, Celine & Layla

Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele & HE Shaikha Hessa

Naushad, Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Dr Abul Qassim Shirazi & Raghu

Dhawiya, Hughes Jucker, Rahma & Sausan

Mrs Al Absi & Reema

Naushad & Raghu

Dhawiya & Amal

Sindhu & Najar

HE Shaikha Hessa, Caroline Gruosi-Scheufele, Sausan & Rahma with models wearing Chopard jewellery

16 October 2011 BTM

Abdul Majeed Shirazi

Doris & Samiya

Anisa

Lulwa & Muneera

bystanderthismonth

Dr Dhafer Al Umran Majlis Ambassador Dr Dhafer Al Umran, Director of Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, played host to a number of diplomats, VIPs and well wishers who visited his Majlis in Adliya, during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Wajeeh Baqer, Adel Fakhro & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

Fuad Kanoo, Stephanie Williams & Dr Dhafer

Ahmed, Dr Khaled, HE Ghassan Mohsen Hussain, Dr Dhafer, Konstatinos Pallikaropoulos, HE Corazon Yap Bahjin, Philippines Ambassador & Mazen Al Umran

Jalil Al Ansari & Mazen Al Umran

Farouk Almoayyed & Khaled Janahi

Ahmed, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Ahmet Ulker, Turkish Ambassador

Mazen Al Umran & HE Enrico Padula, Italian Ambassador

Mazen, HE Abdulaziz Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador, HE Karim Al Shaker, Stephanie, HE Corazon Yap Bahjin, Dr Dhafer, Ali & Ahmed

Ahmed, Dr Dhafer & Mubarak Kanoo

Dr Dhafer, Khalid Almoayed & Abir

18 October 2011 BTM

Ebrahim Al Ameer & Mohammed Dadabhai

Addul Hussain Dawani & Dr Tawfiq Almoayyed

Ahmed, Jano, Mazen, Dr Noman & Dr Dhafer

HE Hideo Sato, Japanese Ambassador

HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador & Rupert

Mohammed Yateem & Sharif Ahmadi

George Middleton, Dr Dhafer & HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador

HE Abdulla Abdullatif, Under-Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Dhafer & HE Mohammed Ashraf Harbi, Egyptian Ambassador

bystanderthismonth

Thai Food Festival At The Mövenpick Thailand’s culture was showcased during a Thai Food Festival held at the Mövenpick Hotel. A colourful opening ceremony was held for VIPs, ministers and ambassadors that included Thai dances and folk music. HE Abdulla Abdullatif, Foreign Ministry UnderSecretary & HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador attended the event

HE Abdulla Abdullatif & HE Vichai Varasirikul

HE Vichai Varasirikul & Heinz Krähenbühl

Wilasini, Onuma, Fransesco, HE Vichai Varasirikul, Cattariya & Juntima

Roger, Marise, Zarina, Bert & Katherine

Ahmed Haji Jumat, HE Vichai Varasirikul & Shahafeez

Stephanie Williams & Heinz Krähenbühl with Thai dancers

Shahafeez, Nadia, Nor & HE Ahmad Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador

20 October 2011 BTM

Witchu, Neil, Sunee & Nuttapat

Dr Dhafer Alumran, Jassim Al Zayani & Claus Buchi

Prapon, Capt Thanin, Poy, Capt Vitcharu, Capt Wisan & Capt Warapart

Heinz, HE Vichai Varasirikul, Sumaya & Hussain

Salman Al Mahmeed, Sumaya Dashti & Heinz

Sarah & Srisuree

Bless & David

Khalifa Rumaihi & Witchu

Nittaya & Pattarawan

Theresa

Shani

Kareem

Anuradha

bystanderthismonth

Al Hawaj Ramadan Ghabga Al Hawaj & Sons held a ghabga for members of the media and invited guests during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The ghabga held at the Al Hawaj Gardens in Barbar was also attended by a number of ambassador's and members of the Al Hawaj family

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj, HE Corazon Yap Bahjin, Philippines Ambassador & HE Vichai Virasirikul. Thai Ambassador

Amal with Raja Al Jadawi

Jihad & Ali

Umaima & Nada

Maryann & Mary

Khamis & Mariam Al Muqla

22 October 2011 BTM

Khalid, Ahmed & Ali

Fadi, Pierre & Jamal

Afnan Al Zayani & Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj

LP & Mai

Ahmed & Sumaya

Rajiv, Nicholas & Farooq

Jawad Y. Al Hawaj & HE Nabeel Al Hamer with Raja & Al Hawaj family members

Fatima & Mariya

Mai & Mai

Arvin, Alou & Maria

Xavier, HE Mohammed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador & Christophe

Yara

Ali Bader

Aniqa

Ebtiham

Remiya

Abdul Majeed

happeningsthismonth When? October 15-20 | Event? Music festival | Venue? Cultural Hall The Beatles go baroque

Broadening Horizons This international music festival has an impressive track record of delivering performances that challenge the musical perceptions of local audiences.

Performing artists In addition to the opening performance by Missa Johnouchi, a number of eclectic artists are lined up for great performances in this year’s festival.

Portuguese artist Cristina Branco will give concert-goers a unique experience of Fado music on October 16. The next day will see the Mike del Ferro Trio indulge the audience with both a piano recital and a Latin Brazilian music show. Following this will be Lebanon’s Issa Hassan, performing Buzuq music, on October 18.

For something completely different, the Czech Republic’s Berg Orchestra reinterpret the music of The Beatles as they offer a baroque version of the iconic band’s compositions. These young musicians seek to offer an inventive approach to 20th century and contemporary music.

The festival is then closed by The Higher Institute of Music Art Band, from Kuwait, with an evening of opera. All performances start at 8pm. E Call 17 298-712.

Also this month

Missa Johnouchi

Consider the days that unite the whole world this October…

When? October 4 Event? Animal Day Love your pets, and if you don’t have one, visit a rescue shelter.

When? October 15 | Event? Piano concerto | Venue? Cultural Hall

The Ministry of Culture of the Kingdom of Bahrain is proud to present its 20th Bahrain International Music Festival. The annual weeklong event celebrates diverse music from around the world, and has become one of the biggest cultural events to be held each year.

World days

When? October 5 Event? Teachers’ Day Recognise their hard work by showing you appreciate them.

Promoting Heritage The opening ceremony of the festival features Japanese conductor and composer Missa Johnouchi, who will perform together with the Orchestra of Bahrain. Missa has been a designated UNESCO Artist for Peace since 2006.

An internationally-recognised musician, Missa is best-known in Japan as a composer of music for film and television. With thousands of pieces to her credit, she has won several awards domestically as well as internationally. Her most popular works include titles such as Canon and Asian Blossoms.

In her UNESCO role she promotes the importance of preserving cultural heritage, to support the aims and messages of the organisation by raising awareness of key development issues.

When? October 10 Event? Egg Day Eggs are delicious, nutritious and substantial!

When? October 10 Event? Mental Health Day Reflect on a hidden illness than cause huge suffering.

When? October 16 Event? World Food Day Expand your palette; try cuisines from all over the world.

When? October 20 Event? United Nations Day Celebrate the diversity of the world and the power of peace and unity.

When? October 31 Event? Halloween No matter your age, dress up, go trick or treating and have fun.

38 x Arts & Culture - 42 x Clubs & Societies - 44 x Teens & Kids - 46 x Sports & Recreation

BTM October 2011 23

happeningsthismonth When? October 28 | Event? BSCPA dog walk | Venue? Animal Welfare Centre, Askar

A Charitable Walk When? October 7 Event? Dandiya night Venue? InterContinental Regency Indian Ladies Association hosts an evening of dancing to remember.

E Call 33 136-925.

When? October 11-22 Event? GCC Games Venue? Ten venues The regions’ best athletes will compete in this high profile sports event.

E Call 17 821-210.

When? October 13 Event? July Rose pageant Venue? Hotel Sea Shell Enjoy the final of the 2011 edition of this popular beauty competition.

E Call 34 150-889.

The annual BSCPA fund-raising dog walk takes place again this month. The event aims to raise awareness and support for the numerous animals that the shelter homes and feeds, while providing all participants and their pooches with a fun day out.

Both children and adults are invited along for the fun family day. Each dog walker must contribute BD10 to walk your own dog, or if you don’t have one you do not have to miss out — simply book and borrow one of the shelter’s own dogs to look after for the duration of the walk. The walk begins at 10am and follows a 4-km route with water stops along the way to rehydrate both canine and carer.

As an extra incentive, there are great prizes for those who collect the highest amount of sponsorship, including a digital camera and a six-month supply of dog food for the team that crosses the finish line first.

Finally, you can refuel and unwind with family and friends while enjoying a BBQ and refreshments after you have completed the walk. E Call 17 591-231.

When? October 15-20 Event? Music festival Venue? Cultural Hall Annual festival returns to challenge our perceptions about music.

E Call 17 298-712.

When? October 28 Event? Wheelathon Venue? Bahrain International Circuit What goes around comes around; so they say!

E Call 39 432-133.

When? October 29-November 1 Event? Education exhibition Venue? Gulf Hotel Discover 50,000+ study options in over 40 countries from 600 exhibitors.

E Visit www.mygetex.com.

24 October 2011 BTM

Test Your Speed Another annual charity event gets an airing this month; the wheelathon offers an unusual and alternative way to raise funds for charity. Open to all, you just need to bring with you some non-motorised wheels such as bikes, scooters, rollerblades and the like.

The event kicks off with the hospital bed race at 1pm. All funds generated will go towards Think Pink and RIA; there will be a family area with refreshments and entertainment.

So, grab a machine and the family and join the 1,000 or so people who typically take part in the wheelathon.

E Call 39 432-133.

When? October 31-November 1 | Event? GETEX | Venue? Gulf Hotel

When? October 28 Event? Dog walk Venue? Animal Welfare Centre in Askar Annual fund-raiser for the BSPCA; indulge your best friend!

E Call 17 591-231 or visit www. bspca.org.

When? October 28 | Event? Wheelathon | Venue? Bahrain International Circuit

When? October 27 Event? Fashion show Venue? World Beat Café Coffee morning to showcase where fitness meets fashion!

E Call 17 612-576.

Improve Yourself!

The Gulf Education and Training Exhibition (GETEX) offers an ideal opportunity for students and working professionals to view and understand the variety of educational and work options available to them, all under one roof.

Presentations cover vocational and occupational courses, in addition to discussions on individual industries, including business, finance, medicine, management and human resources. GETEX also serves as a platform to exchange ideas and network within the educational business sector.

Admission to GETEX is free, and the exhibition is open daily from 10am to 2pm and 5pm to 9pm.

E Visit www.mygetex.com.

Benvenuti a casa.

www.natuzzi.com

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

happeningsthismonth

Tricks of the Trade HSBC has teamed up with the Bahrain Rugby Club to offer fans a one-day only chance to learn from a true professional.

The Bahrain Rugby Club is offering 500 rugby fans the opportunity to take part in a one-day coaching programme this month. This one-off event is available as part of the evolving HSBC Middle East Regional Rugby Grassroots programmes, which has included the partnering of HSBC ME with the Bahrain Rugby Club.

To celebrate this sponsorship, HSBC has enlisted one of the most knowledgeable players in the field to get involved. Rugby expert and ex-professional player Jason Robinson will be acting as the sport’s ambassador.

Jason is a widely respected athlete who has competed in both codes across the sports; his most memorable role was winning the Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2003. Excitingly for all attendees to the coaching day, he will also be in attendance and will be on-hand to help in teaching everyone the tricks of the trade and how to better their rugby skills.

Jason says of the event, “As a player, it’s nice to be able to put something back into the sport. I’ll be there to interact with the kids, encourage them and make it fun. I have never been to Bahrain before so I am looking forward to the trip and getting

involved at the grassroots level to help get more children into the game of rugby through the HSBC programme.”

The aim of the programme is to help grow the sport in the region and create more coaching opportunities for children.

Grassroots is the lifeblood of the sport and leads on to the development of the next generation of talent, so it’s a great chance for new players to come along and show off their talent. Who knows, maybe the next Jason Robinson will be discovered by the man himself…

“Bahrain has a great tradition regionally in rugby and we hope to help continue grow and support the game here at all levels and working with the Bahrain Rugby Football Club,” adds Patrick Gallagher, CEO of HSBC Bahrain. “The coaching clinic with Jason Robinson gives kids here a chance to train with a Rugby World Cup winner, and for families to enjoy a great day out.”

To further mark the partnership with HSBC, the rugby club will also be hosting a number of activities on the same day, ensuring the day is fun-filled for all of the family. To join in, you need to get in touch with the Bahrain Rugby Club directly.

E Call 17 695-809 or www.bahrainrfc.com.

When? October 14 | Event? HSBC, Rugby Grassroots programme | Venue? Bahrain Rugby Club

26 October 2011 BTM

happeningsthismonth

Think Pink!

When? October 1 Event? Sellabrations charity bazaar Venue? Royal Golf Club E Facebook page: Sellabrations.

When? October 1 Event? RCA pink walkathon Venue? Arad Bay E walkathon@rotaryadliya.com.

When? October 7 Event? Pink HOG ride Venue? Harley Davidson, Budaiya Highway E Call 39 922-090.

When? October 9 Event? Wear a ribbon Venue? Bahrain City Centre E Call 17 177-771.

When? October 15 Event? Walkathon Venue? Bahrain City Centre E Call 17 177-771.

When? October 15 Event? WBFC open day Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre E Call 17 612-576.

When? October 16 Event? Men’s golf night Venue? The Royal Golf Club E Call 17 750-777.

When? October 19 Event? Ladies’ golf day Venue? The Royal Golf Club E Call 17 750-777.

When? October 20 Event? Think Pink party Venue? Dilmun Club E Call 39 679-127.

When? October 21 Event? Open day Venue? Bodyline E Call 17 793-932.

When? October 22 Event? Open day Venue? Studio Ceramics E Call 17 599-026.

When? October 25 Event? Think Pink toast Venue? Camelot Restaurant E Call 39 977-540.

When? October 28 Event? Football tournament Venue? Al-Najma Club, Juffair E Call 36 619-944.

When? October 28 Event? Gala evening Venue? Gulf Convention Centre E Call 36 553-999.

28 October 2011 BTM

Knowledge is Power This month encourages us to think about and support breast cancer awareness, and local non-profit charity Think Pink Bahrain aims to get you fully involved!

the customer service desks in the mall and all proceeds will go towards helping to support the digital MRI fund.

E Call 17 177-771.

There are many events being hosting around town to show support for Think Pink, and to raise money to help those affected by this illness. So, there’s no excuse for you not to do you bit for this worthy cause.

When? October 10 | Event? Karaoke night Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant There’s no better way to raise awareness than to make a loud noise; karaoke night is the perfect opportunity for you to do just that! E Call 39 329-083.

When? October 9 | Event? Wear a ribbon Venue? Bahrain City Centre Show your support for breast cancer awareness by sporting a ribbon throughout this month. You can purchase your ribbon at

When? October 15 | Event? Open day | Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre

When? October 10 Event? Karaoke night Venue? JJ’s Irish Restaurant E Call 39 329-083.

Fitness for the Cure

The centre is running its sixth annual open fitness day to show support and raise money for Think Pink Bahrain.

Mums can come along try out some exercise classes and

When? October 15 | Event? ‘Kick up your heels’ walkathon Venue? Bahrain City Centre Starting at 8am at the food court, level two, an enthusiastic team

there will be plenty of activities to keep the kids amused.

To mark the occasion and its worthy cause, all of the centre’s instructors are donating their time and services to contribute towards a fun-packed and active morning. You simply pay a nominal fee and enjoy yourself with friends and family while supporting a cause close to women’s heart.

There are numerous exercise classes to try out for 30 minutes each; shake yourself fit in belly dancing, salsa away in zumba, find your balance in yoga and stretch and flex in pilates. You may well find yourself excel in a new exercise area and find a new class to add to your routine.

Make sure you also stop off in the café to enjoy some organic coffees, delicious whole leaf teas, smoothies and wholesome home-baked treats.

There will also be exciting door prizes, and the half-time entertainment promises not to be missed. The event will be open for ladies and children from 9am until 1pm on the premises in Janabiya; children under the age of 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

E Call 17 612-576 or visit www.worldbeatfitness.com.

of Fitness First instructors will be leading the participants to the 3 km finish line.

Registration for the event costs BD5 and can be paid for at the main customer service desk in the mall.

Take part with friends and family or sponsor someone you know taking part to raise a hefty sum to support breast cancer. The walker who raises the most money will win a 2two-night stay at the brand-new Kempinski hotel, including dinner at the signature Saveur restaurant. E Call 17 177-771.

When? October 16 | Event? Men’s golf night | Venue? The Royal Golf Club As the third annual event of its kind, men can enjoy a real ‘man’s’ evening with no ladies allowed, and play a friendly yet competitive round of golf on the course. Why not parade your support by wearing something pink!

E Call 17 750-777.

When? October 19 | Event? Ladies golf day | Venue? The Royal Golf Club The sixth annual ladies golf day invites all ladies to try out a few rounds of golf.

Whether you are an old pro or a newbie, head along, with friends and family for a great night out. E Call 17 750-777.

When? October 20 | Event? Think Pink party | Venue? Dilmun Club Dress head to toe in any pink shade you desire, and dance the night away at this all-pink disco. Food is included should you need an energy burst; all proceeds goes towards to the Think Pink Foundation. The party starts at 7.30pm; call to reserve tickets. E Call 39 679-127.

When? October 28 | Event? Gala evening | Venue? Gulf Convention Centre Think Pink Bahrain is holding the annual gala event to signal the end of breast cancer awareness month. The money raised from every ticket sold will go towards breast cancer aid, and ultimately raising money for the MRI scanner for Salmaniya Medical Complex. It promises to be a glamorous event, with formal or traditional attire as mandatory, and you can enjoy your evening knowing you are contributing towards helping someone who suffers from the disease. E Call 36 553-999 or visit www.thinkpinkbahrain.com.

Pink Cans campaign World Beat Fitness are also supporting the worthy cause for the fourth year running with the Pink Cans campaign. The cans are filled with delicious dates covered with chocolate and filled with almond, and are donated from Saudi Arabia Packaging Industry. Purchase the Pink Cans from various retail outlets, events and venues this month and 100 per cent of the funds raised will go to Think Pink’s education fund.

The survival rate of breast cancer can be up to 98% if detected early.

Monthly breast self-examinations can save your life. A touch is all it takes.

LET’S SHARE THE LIGHT.

www.thinkpinkbahrain.com www.facebook.com/ThinkPinkBahrain Twitter: @ThinkPinkBH

BTM October 2011 29

happeningsthismonth When? October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 | Event? Talent show | Venue? Virgin Megastore

Recognising Talent The nation’s biggest talent show is closing in and you won’t want to miss out on the exciting audition stages!

30 October 2011 BTM

The first sessions of the pre-screening for Nescafé ‘Show ‘Em What You Got’ auditions finished last month. More than 80 aspiring acts turned up over the two days of auditions in the hope of progressing through to the next round.

The show’s auditions continue throughout this month on a weekly basis, where judges will decide who goes forward to the two-part elimination stage.

Co-organised by TopTune Audio Services and ZCCB-El Yowm Productions, the competition aims to uncover talented youngsters around the Kingdom, and to help them showcase their skills to a wider audience here in Bahrain and within the region.

In its fourth year, it features five categories; singing, dancing, musical instruments, most talented performer and most popular performer. The organisers of this edition make it a point to scout a variety of skills and embrace all kinds of acts from different fields and genres around the island.

“I was surprised at the level of talent that came to perform in the pre-screening. I believe this year to succeed performers will have to both challenge themselves and their rivals,” says Jalal Jaffer of TopTune Audio Services.

Nescafé has created a platform for budding artists to excel.

“It is possible to see that competition is generating a standard — a bar — that is continually rising. As a result the prescreening days have seen a higher level of performance than in previous years.

Performers will be judged on talent execution, personality, showmanship, stage presence and audience rapport with the lucky top contenders being in for a treat with this year’s prizes adding up to US$10,000, an official record release and even a two-month marketing contract. Amwaj TV has also been signed up as the exclusive broadcast media for the event.

“Bahrain is full of beautiful talents, from its local citizens and expatriate residents, all willing to put on a good show up on the stage,” adds Zuhair Ali from Nescafé. “It makes you proud to see the passion that goes into each act, as the artists seek to fully express themselves to entertain the public and impress the judges.” E Call 39 920-161.

Fitness for the Cure World Beat Fitness Center & Cafe 6th Annual fitness and fun for a good cause

Breast Cancer Awareness Open Day Saturday October 15th 9am - 1pm Classes for ladies & teens: Nia-Pilates-Belly Dancing-YogaZumba Fitness-Body Vive-Body Balance.

Childrens activities with supervision.

Exciting door prizes. Fun half time program.

Don’t miss out on this fun, community building experience!

Entrance Fee: BD 10 Ladies, BD 5 Teens All proceeds to go to THINK PINK Bahrain

www.worldbeatfitness.com tel. 17 612 576

happeningsthismonth When? October 10-12 | Event? 2011 HRM Summit | Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel M. A. Sridhar (left) with conference patron His Excellency Dr Abdulhussain bin Ali Mirza, minister of energy, at the opening of the HRM Summit 2010.

HRM SUMMIT 2011

Inspiring Leadership The human resource profession is shifting from people transaction functions to a critical business capability that creates a competitive advantage.

32 October 2011 BTM

In its third edition this year, HRM Summit 2011 has evolved into one of the most important human capital management events for human resource professionals in the region.

“The two-day conference and one-day workshop offers an excellent opportunity for industry professionals as a hub to network and share ideas and knowledge,” says M. A. Sridhar, the CEO at event organiser, Roshcomm. “This year we are particularly delighted to announce that the event received an important approval from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).”

The certification arm of the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM), the HRCI endorsement of the conference means attendees can claim professional development ‘credit hours’ for the event. An HRCI certification is an international benchmark in human resource qualifications worldwide.

“We are very proud of this prestigious approval,” adds Sridhar. “It reinforces the commitment made by Roshcomm to the events we organise and to the quality of the service that is offered to attendees.”

The conference offers an unprecedented line-up of international and regional speakers, offering innovative human capital strategies,” advises Sridhar. “These will help human resource professionals conquer the changes and challenges being faced by organisations today. The summit will also cover critical topics including HR strategy, rewards management, talent management, skills development, employee engagement as well as various other global best practices.”

At the end of each session, a panel discussion will take place with leading international experts in their respective fields. Delegates will also be encouraged to participate in the panel and debate, sharing ideas and building upon existing knowledge.

A feature of this year’s event will be a roundtable session with senior industry professionals, to share their thoughts and views on human resource management. The one-day workshop on ‘Learning and Talent Management Strategies’, on October 12, is run by Dr John McGurk, an adviser to the UK-based Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

In addition, there will be an invitation only HR contemporary focus group workshop conducted by SHRM. The focus session is part of wider study on competency skills for the HR industry.

The event is aimed at human resources and training professionals, including decision-makers, investors, banking officials, HR directors, HR managers and training managers.

It is expected to attract professionals fro m many different industry areas from government offices to insurance companies and beyond.

E Call 17 365-044 or visit www.hrmsummit.com.

Industry Leaders Confirmed speakers include: • His Excellency Dr Abdulhussain Bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy, Bahrain E Call 17 558-826 or 17 558-898.

• Ebrahim Talib, general manager, refining, BAPCO • Brad Boyson, founder and chairman, SHRM UAE • Fouzi Bubshait, president of the Arabian Society of Human Resources Management • Ayman Nadim, group HR manager, Al Jaber Engineering in Qatar • Kanchan Ghoshal, director of people and change advisory at KPMG Fakhro in Bahrain

Exciting journeys.

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September 2011(E)

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Citibank Terms & Conditions and Schedule of Fees & Charges apply and are subject to change without prior notice. They are available upon request and on our website www.citibank.com/bahrain. All offers are madeavailable on a best-effort basis and at the sole discretion of Citibank, N.A. Citibank, N.A. makes no warranties and assumes no liability or responsibility with respect to the products and services provided by partners/ other entities. Citibank, N.A. Bahrain is licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a conventional Retail Bank. *Offer applicable for outbound travel originating from Bahrain only • Offer applicable on First, Business and Economy class adult fare types and is subject to availability • Offer is valid for one way & return trips • Offer is not available on child and infant fares • Offer is not available in conjunction with any other promotional offer or discount • Offer applicable on base fares for ticket purchases on or before August 31, 2012 and outbound travel on or before August 31, 2012 • Etihad Terms and Conditions apply • Valid to all Etihad online destinations (excludes bookings using partner airlines) • Offer does not apply on tactical or promotional fares or any fares with a restricted sales date • Discounts applicable when booking online through the specified landing page on the Etihad website – Discounts not applicable for booking through travel agents • Discounts only valid if payment made with a Citibank Credit Card • Refund/Cancellation of tickets would be as per the existing applicable terms and conditions of Etihad Airways. Citibank, N.A. Bahrain makes no warranties and assumes no liability or responsibility with respect to the products and services provided by partners/other entity (ies).

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

Ahoy There, Sailor

Bahrain’s largest water park is being invaded by pirates!

So, head south for some action-packed entertainment!

Any swashbuckling adventure-seeker will be excited to learn of the pirate crew coming to the Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) this November. A group of trained acrobats, gymnasts and dancers will have you agasp as they flip, dive and swing across the park in a blur of pyrotechnics, sword fights, juggling and other adventurous acts.

The specially-themed live entertainment, Pirates in Bahrain, will run for two weeks throughout the 77,000-square metre water park. The shows are performed four times a day at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm so all you early risers will potentially be able to see four shows during your day at LPOD. A giant pirate ship from Germany will be a prominant feature with a 60 metre high mast and a diving platform that the live actors will leap from, leaving you breathless.

All attendees will have full access to all of LPOD’s slides and facilities, such as the relaxing lazy river or one of the 18 slides.

You can also take a moment to zone out on the Dilmun Beach or grab a bite to eat in any one of the food outlets.

Tickets for Pirates in Bahrain will be available to purchase from numerous venues across the Kingdom, including Euphoria in Seef Mall, Geant and, of course, at LPOD itself. Advanced ticket sales can be arranged and tickets cost BD 22.

E Call 17 845-100 or 36 048-647.

AMWAJ MARINA

Market Madness!

Save the date and get ready for another season of the now much anticipated outdoor Amwaj Marina Market.

Autumn is almost upon us and the cooler weather brings with it an excuse to loosen our grip on the television remote and head outside for the day. The Amwaj Marina Market is returning from next month and will take place on the first Saturday of every month, except on public holidays.

Proving to be a great success — not only to Amwaj residents but for everyone around the island — the November market will be the sixth running of the event, and promises to bring with it something new for everyone.

The market is incredibly diverse, inclusive of sellers and attendees from all communities.

Previous markets have included a live cooking section with freshly-barbequed burgers, Indian food and traditional shawarmas. Other vendors will be selling a wide assortment of products including paintings, clothes by local designers, jewellery pieces, shoes, pet products, baked products, flowers, fascinators and much more.

Of course, it’s not just about shopping for the adults; a special part of the day is dedicated to kids where they can enjoy an array of activities especially for them such as a bouncy castle, face painting, various rides and henna.

The market will run until April 2012; it’s a great way to spend time outdoors, where you are sure to purchase interesting treasures and trinkets for every taste, as well as enjoying your time with family and friends.

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

When? November 12 | Event? Amwaj Marina Market Season 2 | Venue? Amwaj Marina, Amwaj Islands

34 October 2011 BTM

happeningsthismonth When? October 30 | Event? Disabled creativity award | Venue? Disabled Services Centre, Tubli

Acknowledging Creativity

Often people with disabilities can find themselves sidelined in artistic areas, which is something that a new innovative award hopes to diminish.

The Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Disabled Peoples Creativity Award has been created by the Human Rights and Social Development Ministry and will spotlight the artistic works of those with physical and mental disabilities, encouraging the Kingdom to recognise such talent.

Any Bahraini over the age of 12 can enter with a chance to win the award, and all work must be submitted to the Disabled Services Centre in Tubli by the end of this month. There will also be financial rewards; a total of BD12,000 will be distributed between winners, with each receiving up to BD1,000.

Participants can enter work from a wide selection of creative categories. Those who are sporty can enter into the referee, player or coach group. Artistically-inclined individuals can enter the visual arts category, which includes photography, painting, pottery and sculpture. Potential writers can shine in storytelling and poetry. There are also categories for those who like to perform, with music and performing arts as options.

A number of the other well-being societies in the Kingdom have shown their support for the award, including the Bahrain Society for the Deaf.

E Call 17 874-637.

bystanderthismonth

Colonel Rodney Taylor Reception Colonel Rodney Taylor, US Defence AttachĂŠ, hosted a reception to mark the 64th Birthday of the United States Air Force at his residence last month Stephanie Williams, Karen & Col Rodney Taylor

Kevin & Belknap

Mitch & Olga

Nasser Alarayedh, Abdul Hamid Hatem, Col Rodney & Nabeel Ajoor

Donovan & Faith

Andrea & Donovan

Manoj, Divya, Nick & Mitch

Sarah, Steve & Zach

Steve & Maher

Fikret & Tolga

Mr & Mrs Johnson

36 October 2011 BTM

happeningsartsculture When? October 28 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? la fontaine centre of contemporary art

A Salute to Islam A stalwart of the local arts scene bursts back into life this month with both an art exhibition and a rendition of music by two Greek artists born in the Kingdom.

Pakistani-American artist Simeen Farhat brings his Epilogue exhibition to the Kingdom, in conjunction with London-based Xerxes Art. Her works will be on display at la fontaine centre of contemporary art.

Simeen’s works use amenable forms of the Arabic script to elicit linguistic power through allegorical references to Persian and Urdu poetry. The artist’s large scale installations challenge popular perceptions of the East and, at the same time, also addresses the relationships between men and women.

This will be the first time that the artist has exhibited her work in the Kingdom. Xerxes Art was the first gallery outside of the Middle East to exhibit only contemporary visual arts from Iran and the Middle East, to promote Islam to the world.

The opening of the exhibition, at 6pm, will be followed by a recital from French flutist Pierre Nazarian and dinner at 8pm and 9pm respectively. Pierre, who is also a professor of flute at the National Conservatoire of the Carenoble region, has a vast repertoire consisting of classical, jazz, contemporary and traditional music. He has participated in many festivals and performed in most European countries and will be playing in the Middle East for the first time.

Tickets for the evening are priced at BD25 for the exhibition and concert, and BD35 inclusive of the dinner.

E Call 17 230-123.

38 October 2011 BTM

When? October 21 | Event? Greek music recital | Venue? la fontaine centre of contemporary art

Simeen Farhat exhibition

Danae Eleni and Kimon Pallikaropoulos

Greek Classics In conjunction with the launch of a new range of spa products at la fontaine, guests will be entertained by Bahrain-born brother and sister combination, Danae Eleni and Kimon Pallikaropoulos. Over the past couple of years this soprano and piano duo have not only recorded an album but have also impressed audiences across Europe.

Their performance will bring to life the works of 19th century Greek composers with a range of Theodorakis and Xatzidakis songs. The repertoire will include lesser-known Greek songs that Danae and Kimon bring to life with their modern interpretation.

The event’s reception starts at 6pm with concert doors opening at 8pm, and a special dinner whipped up by the centre’s very own chef served an hour later.

happeningsartsculture

Action, Action, Action!

It’s a non-stop month down at this well-known art centre. First up is a month-long exhibition of Qassim Haddad’s works, including a poetry recital; Tufool Haddad will sign copies of his latest book and display a range of photographs. Completing an Haddad hat-trick is Mohamed, who will showcase his musical skills.

Films will be shown once a week from the 5th of the month; if you fancy trying your hand at mastering make-up, then join Simone Gannon’s beginner’s workshop on October 15. Finally, Al Riwaq’s Outdoor Market 338 returns on October 27 and 28.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? October 9-22 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Bin Matar House

When? October 1-31 | Event? Various | Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space

Bronze + Stone The Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research hosts an exhibition of recent works by Bahraini sculptor Khalil Al Hashimi.

Featuring over 20 exquisitely crafted sculptures, the artist has used a variety of stones including marble, onyx and limestone.

The resulting new collection displays not only his mastery over these materials but also the beauty of the individual stones. He combines these smooth stones with alternately shiny and brushed metals and wood, resulting in fascinating art pieces that delight the eye and mind.

Khalil is a member of the Bahrain Art Society and has exhibited widely both internationally and in Bahrain; the exhibition opens at 7pm on October 9.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? October 8 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? World Beat Café

Celebrating Women In support of the Breast Cancer Awareness month, Seana Mallen pays tribute to the essential qualities that women share. “It’s a perfect opportunity to try something new,” says the artist. “I have combined my more traditional life drawings with brilliant abstract colour and light, to express the abstract qualities of women’s strength, joy, resilience and compassion.

At the same time I’ve sought to retain the beauty and sensuality of the female form.”

Each painting is a visual poem about the love, respect and gratitude that Seana has for the amazing women who have touched her life. To support Think Pink, 25 per cent of all profits will go to this charity, one which is very close to her heart.

The exhibition is open from 4pm to 6pm on October 8, and those attending will be able to meet the artist while enjoying light refreshments E Call 17 612-576.

40 October 2011 BTM

When? September 26 - October 6 Event? Art exhibition Venue? La Maison Jamsheer Georges Karam uses his imagination to show off the Kingdom’s skyline.

E Call (TBA) When? October 1-31 Event? Exhibition/workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space It’s all action this month; see article on this page for details.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? October 8 Event? Art exhibition Venue? World Beat Café In support of breast cancer, Seana Mallen pays her own tribute to women.

E Call 17 612-576.

When? October 9-22 Event? Sculpture exhibition Venue? Bin Matar House Khalil Al Hashimi showcases his unique pieces in bronze and stone.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? October 15-November 30 Event? Photography workshop Venue? Sh. Ebrahim Center Changing face of Muharraq is displayed in this photographic workshop.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? October 21 Event? Art exhibition Venue? la fontaine Two Bahrain-born musicians host a night of Greek music.

E Call 17 230-123.

When? October 28 Event? Art exhibition Venue? la fontaine Pakistani-American artist Simeen Farhat showcases her Islamic work.

E Call 17 230-123.

happeningsclubssocieties

Engaging On-line Alison Coldridge The recently launched Bahrain Social Media Club encourages members to share experiences virtually while building social media skills to a highly competent level.

42 October 2011 BTM

Originally from the US, the Social Media Club (SMC) now spans the world with 319 chapters in 49 countries. The Bahrain branch of the club was initiated in July by Ali Sabkar, the club president, and seven other social media professionals who wish to encourage the use and knowledge of this field.

“Social media is all encompassing — we created a club where members can share anything relating to lifestyle,” says Ali. Indeed, the club’s slogan “If you get it, share it” highlights the aim.

“Any experience, story and informative content you come across should be shared with others. We are not living solo, we are part of communities,” Ali adds. SMC meets every two weeks and is open to anyone; currently there are 45 registered members, of which there is an equal gender divide and a wide age range.

The club’s website blog provides an easy way to access and post information. “The blog reaches approximately 300,000 people and brings together all of the club’s chapters worldwide.

We don’t need to reinvent the wheel; instead readers can see what other chapters are doing and feed from them.”

The SMC blog also plays host to the monthly club book webinar. One social media book is chosen each month and discussed on-line for any members to view and ask questions, giving members a way to learn from professionals within the comfort of their own home.

Members are encouraged to share elements of their lives with the club; a social media award has been created to reward the most sharing member each month. The club has partnered with various companies in the Kingdom to reward the winner with great prizes such as a mobile phone.

This month, SMC has taken a step to ensure members have a focused opportunity to develop their skills. The Social Media Camp will run until December and will feature three stages of learning, leaving participants as experts in utilising social media and with all of the qualities of a social media manager.

Firstly, the fundamentals of social media will be taught with a keynote speaker from virtual social media university, Ducktape. Secondly social media advertisement will be outlined by representatives from Facebook, LinkedIn, Yahoo, Google and MSN. The third element will explain how to measure social success with tutorials from Social Bakers, the company who report daily hits to Facebook and LinkedIn. “We are using this event to create social media managers, as this role is non-existent in Bahrain. Members will leave confident in the social media industry and certified to fulfill their role as mentor to others,” Ali explains. “Next year, these mentors will visit schools, companies and other societies to teach about social media, expanding the knowledge of the club to the entire Kingdom.”

E Call 36 145-666 or visit www.socialmediaclub.org.

The Pony Experience This month get your kids down to the Pony Club to pick up a new hobby whilst gaining some exercise and fresh air!

The experienced team at Shakhoora Riding Centre has developed a Pony Club for one special morning of learning and fun this month.

Shakhoora Riding Centre is run and owned by Samia Al Saffar, who is a highly qualified instructor and has years of experience. Samia explains the centre’s aim for the club, “This club is a great chance for kids to not only gain riding skills but also important skills in caring for an animal. Children learn a great deal of discipline from being around animals and understanding their needs and temperament,” she says.

Beginning at the stables at 9.30am, the kids will first be taught the essential points on how to care for their ponies, which will include how to groom a pony, the basic anatomy of the animal, what the saddle and bridle do and how they are positioned and fastened. The kids will also learn about the nutrition and diet of a pony and all aspects of its general daily routine.

Following this, the kids will get the chance to gear up their own pony and be given a riding lesson. All of the basic riding skills will be taught, followed by the option of riding the traditional way — bareback. Riding games such as ‘gymkhana’ will be played to ensure the kids have lots of fun whilst out on the ponies.

The Pony Club day will come to a close at 11am and all of the lessons throughout the day will be administered by a qualified British Horse Society instructor.

E Call 17 591-103.

When? October 28 | Event? Pony Club | Venue? Shakhoora Riding Centre

happeningskidsteens

bystanderthismonth

Nissan Juke Launched Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, the exclusive distributors of Nissan vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain held a ceremony to mark the launch of the all-new Nissan Juke - a turbocharged Sport Cross Over automobile. The launch was held at the Bahrain City Centre last month

Svetlana, Peter Gonsalves, Sandeep Mathur, Declan McCluskey, Samantha, Gurdeep Multani & Rohit Kapoor pose with the Nissan Juke

Declan McCluskey

Mayukh

44 October 2011 BTM

Ahmad & Hassan

Christina & Godwin

Jumana, Jean-Pierre & Youliya

happeningssportsrecreation When? October 11-22 | Event? GCC Games | Venue? Ten venues across the Kingdom Organising committee with Ghalib mascot

When? Starting October 7 Event? 11-a-side football league Venue? Al Hunaniya Park, Riffa The league is open to all Indian nationals who wish to participate.

E Call 39 672-776.

When? October 14 Event? Grassroots programme Venue? Bahrain Rugby Club Sign up for a day of rugby coaching from Jason Robinson.

E Call 17 695-809 or www. bahrainrfc.com.

When? October 14 Event? Sprint triathlon Venue? Durat Al Bahrain Run to support breast cancer and autism at this fund-raiser.

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

Celebrating the GCC Wafa Ebrahim Abdulla The most prolific sport event ever to be held in the region is taking place here in Bahrain this month; Bahrain 11 is part of the GCC Games.

The wait is officially over for what might be the most important sports event to ever take place in Bahrain, and indeed the entire GCC. The Bahrain 11 GCC Games will showcase around 1,500 athletes from the entire region, each representing their nation. Indeed, the chosen mascot — Ghaleb — signifies this unity and sporting spirit binding the GCC nations together.

Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, the CEO of the Bahrain Olympic Committee has made clear the committee’s resolve to encompass more sporting disciplines, for all athletes who want to get involved.

“The GCC boasts an abundance of sporting talent, and the GCC Games will prove an ideal platform to identify sports stars of tomorrow and serve as an ideal training ground for international competitions such as the Asian Games and the Olympics,” he said.

“The games will also be a primary vehicle in facilitating the exchange of expertise between the various GCC Olympic committees to develop best practices that elevate the standard of sports in the region as a whole.”

46 October 2011 BTM

Sports-enthusiasts can enjoy games covering 11 different disciplines, including table tennis for women, volleyball, football, athletics, swimming, cycling and bowling. Each sporting competition will take place in one of the ten allocated venues — six of these are brand new and the other four have been renovated especially for the games.

Additionally, Bahrain 11 includes ball sports for blind athletes — an internationally recognised sport designed specifically for their needs.

“Since winning the trust of our fellow GCC nations to host the inaugural edition of the GCC Games, we have undertaken every effort to ensure that our sporting infrastructure and organisation level matches the grand scale and vision of this event,” added Shaikh Khalid.

“We expect Bahrain 11 will attract major attention from people all around the globe, and as such we have a responsibility to present the best of what Bahrain has to offer and demonstrate its ability in hosting events of this size and calibre.”

The opening ceremony — a much anticipated part of the show — is being kept under wraps, but it has been confirmed that it is choreographed by the same organiser who orchestrated a similar event for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Avid sporting fans who are not able to attend can still see the event on Abu Dhabi Sports as it has been picked to be the official broadcaster of Bahrain 11. E Call 17 821-210.

When? October 21 Event? Super sprint triathlon Venue? Durat Al Bahrain Swim, cycle and run with the Bahrain Road Runners.

E Call 36 876-876.

When? October 24-29 Event? Junior tennis competition Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club International event for our aspiring young ball players.

E Call 17 729-561 or www. itftennis.com.

When? October 28 Event? Endurance Championship Venue? Royal Equestrian Club Bahrain First event of the 2011/12 season commences this month.

E Call 17 836-199 or www. equestrianbahrain.com.

When? October 29 Event? King’s Cup Venue? Bahrain National Stadium This prestigious competition is in its 34th consecutive season.

E Call 17 685-775.

Aiming for Top Racquet!

The third edition of the Zain IFT International Junior Championship has attracted more than 100 entrants from around the world, confirms tournament director Dr Sami Dannish.

More than one-third of these are entered into the women’s competition, from 16 countries.

This competition has traditionally also provided an opportunity for aspiring local tennis players to assess their own skills against an international benchmark. Taking to the courts this year, from the Kingdom, are Yousef Qaed, Khalid Al Mosawi and Ayman Jaffar, amongst others.

The largest overseas contingent comes from Egypt, who will provide one-third of the total players signed up for the tournament. Alongside this year’s event, the Bahrain Tennis Club has organised a photographic exhibition of images from 2009 and 2010.

E Call 17 729-561 or www.itftennis.com.

When? October 14 | Event? Sprint Triathlon | Venue? Amwaj Islands

When? October 24-29 | Event? Junior tennis championship | Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club

happeningssportsrecreation

Sport for a Cause Make a point this month to be part of the sprint triathlon and help raise funds for charities such as the Bahrain Cancer Society and the RIA Centre for Children with Autism.

The triathlon will feature a 750-metre swim, a 20-kilometre cycle ride and a five-kilometre run. A series of races take place over the next three months, through to December.

Participants can enter as individuals or in teams of two or three members, who can each take part in the different categories. Everyone who competes will receive a commemorative medal.

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

bystanderthismonth

Ben 10 At Bahrain City Centre The Bahrain City Centre held the children’s favourite - Ben 10 Live On Stage - during the Eid holidays. The Ben 10 Omnitrix Overload event was an interactive, live-action multi-media show that was making it’s first-ever appearance in the kingdom, much to the delight of a number of kids.

The show host with a character from the show

Ryan, Sameer, Haleema & Samiya

Fatima & Mariyam

Mohammed, Tahir, Adil & Hamza

Abdulrahman, Abdulaziz & Ali

Sania & Ala

Sholet, Sharlin, Roy & Sharon

Sonia, Henry, Keith & Aldrin

Ida & Emil

Francisca, Carmo, Clifford & Vincent

Dean, Oliver & Bernadette

48 October 2011 BTM

bystanderthismonth

BBBF Luncheon The Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) held a luncheon for members and guests at the InterContinental Regency Hotel last month. The guest speaker at the event was HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador Austin, Julia, Rob, HE Iain Lindsay, Khalid Al Zayani, Jill, Nasser Alarayedh, Rebecca & Dena

James & Dr Clare

Julia, Nabeel Ajoor, Nasser Alarayedh, Khalid Al Zayani, Boyd, Darrell & Nancy

Wallis

Anita & Debbie

Jackie & Phillip

Annie & Karen

Bill

Abdulla

Karim & Chris

Dr Dhafer Al Umran, HE Iain Lindsay & Khalid Al Zayani

David, Paul & Rodney

Jalil Al Ansari & Mazen Al Umran

Manfred

Austin & Ron

Amwaj Marina Family Bazaar The second Amwaj Marina Family Bazaar was held at the Amwaj Marina last month. A wide assortment of products and merchandise was on display, from frames, paintings, clothes by local designers, jewellery, shoes, pet products, flowers, handmade accessories, fascinators to DVDs and home electronics. There were stalls selling food and plenty of entertainment for kids

Sravesh

50 October 2011 BTM

Sefat & Nazeeha

Hayat, Zahid, Razia, Shahnaz, Sajida & Shama

Adiba & Rayan

Noor, Salah & Eman

Lakshmi, Murali, Meghala & Valli

Awatif & Hanan

Fadwa

ŠKODA Family Models ŠKODA Superb Dynamic, Powerful and Elegant! The all new SKODA Superb puts you in a class above the rest. Supreme on-road presence, unparalleled safety and class-leading luxury features are the few reasons why this model is known as the ‘SUPERB’.

Features:

•

From BD 11,700/- onwards

• • • • •

Choice of 1.8 L, 4 Cyl. Turbo engine with 7-speed DSG or 3.6L, 260 BHP, V6 engine with 4WD, 6-speed AT transmission 18” Alloy wheels PDC Park Distance Control with display Auto Parking System Twin-door patented dual-boot-lid function Sunroof

• • • • • •

Premium suede & interior leather Multi- functional steering wheel with Audio-visual controls Blue tooth/Voice Communication functions Touch-screen Navigation System TV Tuner

ŠKODA Octavia Sporty, Individualistic and Soulful! The SKODA Octavia combines sporty driving performance with daily drivability. Crisp, clean lines and a fantastic drive-train make the Octavia as much more fun to own as to drive. Clearly beats the competition in its class

Features:

•

From BD 7,700/- onwards

• • • •

Choice of 1.8 L, Turbo charged Incline 4 Cyl. with 7-speed DSG or 1.6L, 4 Cyl. engine with 6-speed AT transmission Dual-zone air conditioning CLIMATRONIC Remote central locking Driver and passenger air bag Park distance control system ( rear parking sensors)

• • • • •

Cruise control Electric Sunroof 17” Alloy wheels Xenon Headlights with dynamic angle control and Telescopic front headlights 6-CD Changer MP3

ŠKODA Fabia Stylish, Elegant and Powerful! The SKODA Fabia denes a perfect life-style companion. With spirited handling, excellent versality and best safety features it stands out from the crowd.

Features:

• •

From BD 5,500/- onwards

• • • •

1.6 L, 4 Cyl. 6-speed Automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual mode Climatronic A/C system Remote Keyless entry system 15” Alloy wheels Front & Rear fog lights

• • • • • •

Premium luxury fabric seats AM/FM radio with aux input CD/MP3 player Dual air bags ABS with disc brakes Electronic Stability Program (ESP-standard)

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Specications / Options are subject to availability and may vary from the above model shown and not necessarily included in the standard equipment.

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Citibank Staff Party Citibank Bahrain held its annual staff party at the Gulf Hotel's Gulf Convention Centre last month. The party was also attended by Mazin Manna, Citibank's Bahrain chief executive and senior managers. The event also had a competition for staff - the best dressed King and Queen of the party

Mazin Manna

Redha, Ann, Muneera & Gopal

Rahila

Nawara & Noof

Mazin & Mohammed

Khalid, Moshan, Ahmed & Al Meer

Winnie & Noorie

Jagan, Kiran, Jeetesh & Abhishek

52 October 2011 BTM

Maran & Mazin

Shakeen & Noreen

Vipul, Anwar & Bhaskar

Abeer, Enas & Nadia

Jihad & Ameena

Imran & Faiza

Ameera & Hawra

Amina, Hessa, Razia, Asma & Fatima

Samana & Ismail

Ajay & Nishanth

Shalini & Hetal

Best Dressed King & Queen - Noora Abdul Ghani & Jonathan Baker

Nacira

Moses & Imran

Sara, Fatima & Nuha

Uma & Shalini

Eman & Huda

Prepare to be satisfied every Sunday night when you join us at Silk restaurant’s pool side terrace for spectacular array of finely cut tender meat. Choose from mouthwatering American BBQ , or let out talented chef cook your favourite meat in a Brazilian Churrasco way. Enjoy skewers of lamb, chicken, beef, and a wide variety of seafood and fine cuts, while you smoke the night away with flavoured shisha looking out on the panoramic views of the Lagoon.

This could all be yours for just BD 16.6++, also including unlimited Caphirinia.

MĂśvenpick Hotel Bahrain P.O.Box 24009, Muharraq Town, Kingdom of Bahrain Phone +973 17 460 000, Fax +973 17 460 001 www.moevenpick-bahrain.com

www.moevenpick-hotels.com

BBQ grill

Churrasco.

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Hussain & Rashida Tadayon Get Together Hussain & Rashida Tadayon had a gathering of friends at their residence in Saar recently HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador & HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Bangladeshi Ambassador

Suhaimi & Ayub

Dessa, Rashida & Nor Hayati

HE Ahmad Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador & Rashida Tadayon

Meher, Hussain, Anita & Faye

Salimah & Alia

Hussain, Mohammed Dadabhai, Rashida, Anisa & Dr Mohammed Khozai

HE Ahmad Shahizan, Amin, Nor, Anisa, Rashida & Hussain

Sahar, Rashida & Bashar

Hussain Tadayon & HE Ghassan Mohsen Hussain, former Iraqi Ambassador

Ibrahim & Hussain

Dr Bahia & Adnan

George, Meher, Rizwan & Anita

Jane

Maha & Henny

Irfan Khokkar Iftar Irfan Khokkar hosted an Iftar for colleagues and friends at the Ramee International Hotel in Juffair

Abdullah, Haris & Sidra

Irfan Khokkar & family

54 October 2011 BTM

Amna & Eman

Azhar, Hameed & Tahir

Imran & Sarmad

Zubair & Irfan

Kashif & Mariam

featurenortherngovernorate

Finessing a Binding Tapestry Jaffar Bin Hasan Bin Rajab

The biggest governorate, in terms of size and population, boasts 60 schools, is home to 40 charities and societies and hosts 26 sports and culture clubs. Like other governorates, the twin issues of youth employment and housing are a primary area of attention — they’re just bigger here!

Reflecting the residential nature of the area, the thoroughfares that knead the area together are dotted by groups of buildings offering the essentials of life; regional and modern shopping malls, dining areas such as Cyprus Gardens and a host of businesses dedicated to life at home.

Step off the beaten track, though, and most of us probably have little comprehension what lies beyond a 50-metre strip either side of the main roads. Interconnecting the multitude of villages, yet retaining their individual identity, plays a key role in the work of the governor and his team.

Unlocking a conundrum It would be easy to conclude, given the extent of waiting lists, that the provision of affordable housing has been somewhat neglected across Bahrain, over the years. The governor, though, offers a perspective that rarely grabs the headlines.

“To build new housing we obviously need land, and most Bahrainis prefer to remain close to their roots, residing in houses and villas rather than apartment blocks,” he notes.

“Acquiring land for housing that meets these demands is not the simple proposition it might seem; the majority of landowners prefer to swap their land rather than just sell it to the government.”

DAVID M. ROBERTSON Hugging the western and northern shorelines of the Kingdom, the Northern Governorate has its own very distinct persona.

As you enter the office of the Northern Governorate, located in the ‘real’ Budaiya, there is a map on the wall that offers an insight into this area of Bahrain, and its peculiar L-shaped geography.

As the governor of this region, Jaffar Bin Hasan Bin Rajab, tells us, his area of authority is centred around 39 villages, each with their own history and identity. When you peer more closely at this map of the governorate, a story unfolds; it is a collage of images depicting the traditional trades of each village. From the basket makers of Karbabad to weavers in Bani Jamri, it’s a visual expression that reflects the Kingdom’s history and culture.

“You know,” says the governor, “90 per cent of all the heritage sites in Bahrain can be found within the Northern Governorate.” As he weaves his own tale, the statistics offered paint a self-evident image. This is a governorate where people reside, not just live; it does not possess the business or industrial centres found in other parts of the island.

BTM October 2011 57

featurenortherngovernorate Fighting a killer More than any other part of the Kingdom, the Northern Governorate is afflicted by the sickle cell disease. It is the principal medical issue facing the governor, and one that he notes is targeted to be eliminated by 2015.

A key component of the strategy to, as he puts it, “kill the disease” is the construction of the new sickle cell centre at Salmaniya Hospital, which should be completed during 2012.

Optimism for the future It’s not difficult to imagine that matching up acceptable land for a swap is not a trivial task. One solution to this conundrum has been to reclaim land to build new homes; the new northern town is one such example. However, that in itself also generates as many problems as it seeks to solve.

We have all read about the delays in getting the northern town project off the ground; what we do not appreciate is the issues this has placed on the desk of the governor. The number of applications for housing, from both within the Northern Governorate and beyond, has far outstripped the proposed supply. Deciding how to allocate homes to individuals has therefore been a major task, particularly as the homes to be built on the reclaimed land will all have sea views and are deemed to offer a superior lifestyle compared to other government-sponsored housing projects.

Ask the governor about the issues that have confronted the Kingdom during the course of this year, and he is quite sanguine in his reply.

“We need to remember what it is like to be a Bahraini; we are a loving and friendly people who appreciate that unity is what makes us strong,” he observes. “Bahrain is a land of peace and our vision of who we are and what we wish to achieve does and has not changed.”

These are the words of a man who fully appreciates and understands the tapestry that interconnects those that reside in the governorate, and that is so graphically depicted on the map at the entrance to his ‘business’ home.

The governor also hopes that the National Dialogue will result in additional powers and more authority for the governorates to tackle the issues within their territories. There’s a sense of ‘back to the future’ in this sentiment; one that seeks to empower local communities with a sense of ownership.

It’s an approach that the science of modern management supports as well; the notion that smaller teams working together are more effective than a larger counterpart. One that finesses a tapestry that binds as it grows.

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IAA Ghabga The International Advertising Association (IAA) Bahrain Chapter held a ghabga for the advertising and marketing community during the Holy Month. The guest speaker at the event held at the Awal Ballroom, Gulf Hotel, was Rashid Abdulla, chief executive, Batelco

Gordon

Jay, Shafeeka & Paul

58 October 2011 BTM

Khamis Al Muqla, HE Nabeel Al Hamer & Akram Miknas

Khalifa Shaheen & Jawad Y. Al Hawaj

Tom, Atsuko & Hussain

Rashid Abdulla & Hala Suleiman

Khalid Juman & Anwar Abdul Rahman

Ahdeya & Ahmed

Kuldeep, Anil, Arun & Nicky

featurenortherngovernorate Rashid A. Abdulla

A Modern Bahraini!

DAVID M. ROBERTSON The transformation Batelco has undergone in recent years acts as a metaphor for life as a Bahraini citizen in the 21st century: embracing change in order to flourish.

60 October 2011 BTM

A Batelco veteran, Rashid A. Abdulla, the recently-appointed chief executive of the telecom operator’s Bahrain business, might like to think that he has seen it all in his near 40 years working for the company. He’s in the wrong business, though, for this to be the case!

Joining the company in 1974, within the technical operations side of the business, he pre-dates the establishment of Batelco in 1981. Over the years he migrated from marketing and management functions to heading up the Kuwait-based QualityNet prior to returning to the Kingdom to take up his present role.

The challenges he has faced, and continues to face, epitomises the life of a modern Bahraini. The days of installing ubiquitous, one-dimensional ‘green screens’ for a leading financial service information provider in the ‘70s and ‘80s has given way to a business with ever-increasing exponential challenges and opportunities.

As a manager in such an environment you run the risk of being out-of-date just as you thought you had got yourself up-to-date. The telecom industry is one, after all, where the pace of technology change often runs ahead of the mind’s ability to articulate the impact on the business.

Listening to Rashid talk about how Batelco has responded since deregulation of the telecom market commenced in 2004, two words stand out and offer guidance as to how to navigate your way through such a period of change — ‘adapt’ and ‘wisdom’.

“Deregulation challenged the basis upon which Batelco was run; we’ve had to adapt our culture to retain our market leadership, to remain competitive and to meet the demands of our customers,” he says.

The exercise of wisdom has facilitated the transformation required, as competition changed the ball game and turned upside down the foundations on which both the way the customers and employees were managed. It’s clear a key component of this has been a willingness to empower a younger generation to have a greater say in the future direction of the business.

Much as people in the Kingdom have had their perceptions ‘bashed about’ by the unrest of recent months, Batelco has had to weather and survive a similar storm in recent years. Rashid is more than prepared to admit that, despite the discomfort it might have caused, both the company and those that work there are stronger and better prepared to face the future as a result of this experience.

Bringing forward the future Like the mouse in the wheel that never quite seems to get to the finish line, there comes a point when it is apparent that continuing to do the same thing and, yet, expect a different result is not going to work.

“We need to quicken the pace at which we work in order to improve,” says Rashid. “We need to bring the future forward; that gives us the power to make things happen and to be in the right place when we need to be. This involves questioning whether we are equipped to manage cultural and market changes and our ability to predict the appetite of consumers.”

In a market such as Bahrain’s, and with limited room for volume-based revenue growth, Rashid concedes that “cost containment is the name of the game.” He also believes there are too many players for the size of the market and that some “merging and partnering” is inevitable.

Asked if Batelco would look to acquire any local players, he neatly sidesteps the question and talks about “diversification” being a key strategy for growing the business. “We live in an environment where we have to be creative [and to appreciate that we have] to share the wallet of the customer,” he says.

“While areas such as ICT, managed solutions and cloud computing offer opportunities, our core business is still a telecom service provider. ICT, for instance, has a different culture and we would look to partner other businesses to tap into these markets.”

Bringing the future forward is also an approach he looks for from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority as well.

“The last detailed review of the telecom market was done in 2008; it’s time for a new one.”

As Rashid sets about creating the platform for others to be successful, he stresses the importance of “stability, trust and establishing a common ground” to deliver on objectives and to meet the aspirations of customers and staff.

Whoever said you need to be young in order to be modern — it’s defined by your mindset!

featurenortherngovernorate

What to Do Drag yourself out of your house and explore some of the fun and traditional Bahraini activities available in the Northern Governorate.

What to See Explore the cultural depths of the Northern Governorate by visiting some of its oldest sites which still remain for the public to visit today.

The northern governorate is widely known for an expansive offering of heritage and historical sites and, in fact, many of the island’s touristic hot spots are located here.

Visiting these sites you can build an image of how life was in Bahrain back when civilisation first was developed in the Dilmun era and soak in some beautiful scenery along the way.

Driving around Bahrain, you are bound to notice grouped mounds of sand dotted around. These are in fact Bahraini burial grounds, and an expansive site of this kind can be found in Saar where traditionally both Bahrainis would come and bury the deceased. The Saar burial complex was discovered in 1978 by a Pan-Arab expedition and contains around 1,500 burial chambers that are separated from each other by interconnected curved stone walls. Personal possessions found alongside the buried connect the human remains to places as far as Syria, Oman and Baluchistan suggesting that other countries would bring their deceased to Bahrain.

The Northern Governorate also boasts two temples; Barbar and Diraz. Barbar temple is the largest in Bahrain and dates back to the second or third millennia BC. It is made up of three temples, the second of which is the best preserved with walls and terraces still erect. Diraz temple was originally distinctive due to an impressive architectural feature of a row of stone pillars. Today there are just remains, but the original structure is visible so you can get an idea of what it would have looked like.

Possibly the most prominent and spectacular site to see is the Qal’at al-Bahrain (a.k.a. the Bahrain Fort). Believed to be the largest and most important archaeological site in the Kingdom and indeed the entire Gulf region, the fort was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage site list in 2005. It was built during the Dilmun era, and has since been rebuilt by other civilisations including the Portuguese. It features impressive fortified tall walls and archways surrounded by a dry moat and beautiful sea views.

62 October 2011 BTM

There is no way you can be in a desert country and not visit the traditional desert animal. Head to the Camel Farm in Janabiya where approximately 450 of the King’s camels reside, waiting for members of the public to come and visit and take them for a quick ride throughout the farm. The magnificent humped animals are grouped in males, females and babies and if you feel daring you can also try some camel milk — tangy!

Al Jasra Village is another area of interest which contains two attractions. Al Jasra House, originally home to a Shaikh, still retains its original structure and style. You can wander throughout the rooms of the house and marvel at the simplistic splendour of the contents.

Each room has been filled with articles which would have been traditionally found there and it is highly interesting to see how a Shaikh would have lived many years ago. Just along the road is the Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre which is home to Bahrain’s traditional crafts. Here you can see how crafters make their masterpieces, and the artists are more than happy to explain their process and allow you to give it a go.

There are many workshops highlighting Bahrain’s famous crafts, including mat weaving, basketry, pottery, doll making and boat building. You can pop into the gift shop at the end of your visit to purchase any one of the finished products.

Another place to visit is the new Budaiya beach. Here you can bask in the sun or pack a picnic and pick a spot on the 51,480-square metre park. The beach is around 450 metres in length with facilities such as play areas for the children to enjoy and a walkway that extends along the coast, providing easy access to all the amenities there.

featurenortherngovernorate

Single Street Dining Budaiya Highway, the most commonly used road leading through the Northern Governorate, is abundant in dining options. You are spoilt for choice in cuisine, price and ambience in the range of restaurants and cafés on offer.

Restaurants The best advice one can give for selecting a place to eat along Budaiya Highway is simply select a cuisine and go from there. Opt for traditional and you can dine at one of the flavoursome Arabic restaurants and sample dishes from the culture in which you reside. Carla’s Lebanese, situated in Cypress Gardens, is a good choice. Cosy and quiet, the affordable menu is bursting with options, which are best sampled by ordering a variation of small dishes to your table to pick and choose between. Similarly, Al Abraj restaurant is teaming with cold and hot mezze dishes and tasty grills ideal for sharing.

Or if you like a bit of Italiano, you will not be disappointed. There is Luigi’s, Capri and Castello, each whom serve huge pizzas oozing with cheese and fillings of your choice as well as many other Italian favourites.

Papa John’s is of course another go-to for a guaranteed mouth-watering pizza and the recently-opened pizzeria, Gusto, is minimal in style but mighty in portions.

For those cravings of duck rolls, Thai green curry and wasabi you can choose from a vast variety of Asian cuisine and dining styles. Settle down for a meal at the modern and stylish restaurant Nu Asia or the more intimate Papaya, or pick something delicious to go from I Love Sushi, Magic Wok or Thai Express.

Fast food is also a quick and filling option from the good old favourites; Burger King, Hardee’s and McDonald’s. If you love chomping on a meaty burger you can try good old favourite Burgerland or the new and stylish Burger Wisconsin in the equally sophisticated Uptown Village.

Otherwise if you still have not been taken by one in particular then Indian restaurant Lanterns is a safe, and delectable, choice. The buffet-style restaurant allows as big consumption as you can possibly manage of curries, stir-fries, grills, salads and sides plus fresh fruit and ice-cream dessert.

64 October 2011 BTM

Crepe Café Cafés Budaiya Highway is also rich in café choices; it is a convenient location to meet with friends or conduct business meetings whilst enjoying a hot beverage and a snack.

Alosra has recently opened the Great Deli Café, which is a great point for refreshment after a food shop at Alosra. The café serves an array of hearty, home-style breakfasts, soups, salads, baguettes, cakes and fresh beverages.

The Crepe Café in Palm Square is a great all rounder, with savoury and sweet crepes on the menu ideal for fulfilling every dining need of your day. There is always a ‘crepe of the month’ on the menu if you are undecided.

Caramel Café is noted for its sumptuous pastries which taste even better with a strong coffee on the side, or a reputable favourite is the chocolate fanatic cake with hot melted chocolate inside and served with ice-cream — mouth-watering.

Jawad Dome

Lanterns

Palm Square

Uptown Village

The Crêpe Café is an original, fast casual “crêperie” franchise launched by FrenchAustralian entrepreneurs in Australia in 2001. Specialising in traditional savoury and sweet crêpes, waffles, pancakes and omelettes, our meals are complemented with our own special blend coffee.

Visit us at:

Palm Square, Budaiya Highway, (Near NBB)

Tel: 77115566

www.thecrepecafe.com

BTM October 2011 65

featurenortherngovernorate ZAYT ZAYTOON

Lebanese Charm Are you in the mood for casual dining and some traditional Lebanese dishes?

Then, savour the mouth-watering specialties at Zayt Zaytoon.

Zayt Zaytoon relies on the concept of total freshness, traditional recipes and exquisite taste in a pleasure-filled environment. In addition to full-service restaurants in Exhibition Avenue, Budaiya Highway and soon in BDF-Riffa; it also provides catering services for corporate houses.

“Despite the increasing competition, Zayt Zaytoon’s commitment to become a leader in the Lebanese restaurant segment and establish itself as one of the leading casual dining concepts in Bahrain remains unshaken,” says Ahmed Fakhro, managing director of SunCity Ventures.

The man behind menu innovation is Mohammad Mechmechani, who has been head chef at the restaurant since 2006. His 15 years of experience in Lebanese cuisine is directly reflected in the dishes prepared at the restaurant.

Following authentic cooking styles, these are prepared just the way your Mum would, following simple rules that play a key role in Mediterranean fare. For each new recipe, though, the chef adds his own touch to deliver yet more flavour.

After the success of the kaftitna ‘straight from the oven’ promotion, Zayt Zaytoon has brought in another surprise for its guests.

What’s attracting attention is the new fatteh offering, a preparation with fried flatbread and boiled chickpeas. Seasoned with fresh yoghurt and topped with pan-fried minced mutton, it is certainly a dish to savour.

The arayes kofta is also a popular choice. Freshly baked bread is stuffed with their unique kofta mix and charcoal-grilled, it is served with laban and cucumber yoghurt salad.

E Call 17 312-222 (Exhibition Avenue) or 17 597-597 (Budaiya).

Present this coupon and get

OFF on your total bill

66 October 2011 BTM

featurenortherngovernorate GUSTO PIZZERIA RISTORANTE

The Italian Way Standing out from other restaurants in Palm Square is a brand new venue that brings authentic Italian cuisine for those with a passion for pizza, and more.

The first thing that attracts you when you walk into Gusto is its unique interiors. A spread of white, from the brick walls and the pillars to the furniture and the crockery, Gusto is a modern adaptation of a traditional Italian restaurant. The subtle touch of silver with the mirror décor and the cutlery gives this venue a minimalist chic ambience. However, what you will love are the glass walls that let in sunlight during the day and give you a view of the city at night.

The pizzeria-restaurant is proud of its pizzas; they are made fresh in a traditional wood-fire oven — when they say Italian, they mean home-made Italian. The pasta is made just before it is cooked giving it a fresh taste like nowhere else. The pizza is made from the finest ingredients imported from Italy; a reason why the venue has been quick to attract customers since its opening last month.

“We serve 35 kinds of pizzas in highly generous portions,” says manager Boyet De Leon. “Our large-size orders come at a diameter of 33 cm, making it one of the largest served in Bahrain.”

Casual dining For an unforgettable night out, we suggest you opt for their cannelloni ricotta e spinaci which are pasta sleeves stuffed with ricotta cheese and spinach. A complex preparation with the simplest ingredients of pecorino cheese and black pepper, the spaghetti cacio e pepe is easily one of the best dishes on the menu. If you opt for the pizza, you’ll love the porcini e salsiccia which has a combination of tomato sauce, wild mushrooms, beef sausage and mozzarella.

E Call 17 695-556.

BTM October 2011 67

bystanderthismonth

Ford Explorer Launched Almoayyed Motors, sole distributors for Ford Automobiles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, held a ceremony to launch the new Ford Explorer 2012 SUV at the Almoayyed Motors Showroom in Sitra

Farouk & Mohammed Almoayyed

The 2012 Ford Explorer SUV being unveiled

Allan Guest, Venkatesh Goud, Farouk Almoayyed, Mohammed Almoayyed & Sandeep Mathur

Mohammed & Jim

Rohit & Waseem

Reem

Said, Dharmesh & Venkatesh

Sreekumar, Vipin & Sreedhar

Eman & Sethu

Aysha

frasershospitality.com

WH E RE S PAC E OFFE RS TH E PE RFEC T SANC TUARY The only Gold-Standard ser viced residence with direct access to the bustling Seef Mall, Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain offers 91 elegant apar tments, just eight per floor for greater privacy.

Take breakfast in The Gallery, relax in our stately massage chair in the Retreat or simply bask in our swimming and jet pools.

Together with our unique Kids Club and award-winning ser vice, step into Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain, for grandeur living.

THE FR ASER COLLEC TION

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68 Octo ber 2011 BTM

BAHRAIN BANGALORE BANGKOK BEIJING BUDAPEST CHENGDU DOHA DUBAI EDINBURGH

GLASGOW GUANGZHOU HANOI HONG KONG ISTANBUL JAKARTA KUAL A LUMPUR LONDON

MANILA NANJING NEW DELHI OSAKA PARIS SEOUL SHANGHAI SHENZHEN

SINGAPORE SUZHOU SYDNEY TIANJIN CHENNAI (2012) PERTH (2013) WUHAN (2012) WUXI (2012)

30

Gulf Hotel Reception To mark the formation of a new marketing and communication team, Pauline Dubuc, director, marketing and communication, Gulf Hotel, hosted a reception to introduce the team to members of the media and guests. The event also introduced the hotel's new and unique concept of Vinotherepy. The reception was held at the hotel's Vintage Wine Bar last month

Garfield Jones & Pauline Dubuc

Vijith, Deen & Elma

Anti, Mai & Kevin

John, Brieanna & Suzy

Esky & Pierric

Kevin

David & Pauline

Wassim, Mohammed & Pauline

Dale

Bless

Avis, Ivan, Mateu, Diego & Carlos

BTM October 2011 69

bystanderthismonth

Elite Fashion's Night Out The Elite Seef Residence & Hotel held an evening of fashion and music called 'Fashion's Night Out' which featured a fashion show and music by DJ Lange and vocals

by Susana. The event was held at the hotel's poolside

Shai, Farya & Samya

Qaiser, Edwin, Prasanna & Avinash

Anatasiya & Aisha

Jalal & Susana

Dieter & Viola

Models strike a pose on stage

70 Octo ber 2011 BTM

Ash & Abdulla

Anna & Ness

Gaby & Wahid

Al Noor International School Graduation Under the patronage of HE Bassim Al Hamer, Housing Minister, the Al Noor International School held a graduation ceremony for twentyone grade 12 students. They were the fourth batch of graduates to have achieved high grades in the Education Ministry examinations.

The event was held at Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain's Al Murjan Ballroom, last month

Dr Ali Hassan & HE Bassim Al Hamer

HE Bassim Al Hamer & Ebrahim

HE Bassim Al Hamer & Essa Janahi

Wedad Al Moosawi, Badria Zaman & Muhammad Mashood

Some of the graduate students

Esra

Fatima

Mohammed

Noor

Ali

Ahmed

BTM October 2011 71

bystanderthismonth

Mohammed Mansoor Iftar Mohammed Mansoor hosted an Iftar for a number of his friends and colleagues at the Diva Hotel, Juffair

Mohammed Mansoor, Paresh, Shantharam Shetty, Ashok & Murali Krishna

Roy, Sherin & Renjith

Ashok & Himanshu

Fouzia, Imtiaz, Mansoor, Shabana, Menaz & Abdulaziz

Santosh, Mohammed & Shaikh Abdulla

Vijay & Ronnie

Vritti & Deepa

72 Octo ber 2011 BTM

Sameer, Ibrahim, Aslam & Iqbal

Farahat Mohammed & Jassim bin Ahmed

Sadaf, Nooh & Masood

Saiful Islam Farewell Party HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Bangladeshi Ambassador & his wife Nasreen Akbar hosted a reception to bid farewell to Mohammed Saiful Islam, Counsellor & DCM and his wife Zulfiya Islam, and to welcome the new Counsellor & DCM Mehdi Hasan. The dinner was held at Bangladesh House, Saar last month

Muhammed Ibrahim, Nadia, Zufiya, Saiful, HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Nasreen Akbar & Mr & Mrs Mehdi Hasan

Shahafeez & Ahmed Haji Jumat

Karim & Saiful

Saiful & Khalifa Rumaihi

Dr Fakhriya & Rosita

Asif, Dr Sai, HE Mohammed Ali Akbar, Saiful, Cherian & Mehdi

Nadia, Zulfiya & Mrs Karim

Fayza, Sukma & Rashida

BTM October 2011 73

diplomatictalk

All Round Progress H.E. Ahman Shahizan Bin Abd Samad

A potential economic powerhouse for some years now, Malaysia is ushering in wide-ranging reforms, sending out the right signals to the world.

74 October 2011 BTM

Economic progress has been the mainstay of Malaysian government policy over the last two decades. The current regime is pushing for an ambitious economic transformation programme that aims to turn the country into a high-income economy by 2020.

However, the time is ripe for progress on other fronts as well.

In September this year, prime minister Najib Tun Abdul Razak announced the repeal of the controversial Internal Security Act (ISA) of 1960 and other emergency proclamations. The announcement, on the 48th anniversary of Malaysian National Day, marked a historic transformation of the country towards greater civil rights and fundamental liberties.

“This move is to gear the country towards an overall transformation,” believes His Excellency Ahman Shahizan Bin Abd Samad, the Malaysian ambassador to Bahrain.

“The message to the world is that while Malaysia strives for economic advancement and progress, it does not ignore the fundamental rights of citizens. Being a democracy, it’s an accepting and caring nation where individual liberty and human rights are respected.”

Malaysia enjoys very close and cordial bilateral relations with Bahrain, with many parallels between the two countries; both are constitutional monarchies with parliamentary democracy and are Islamic states that are modern, progressive as well as moderate. The Malaysian community here, though, is small — only around 500 professionals — but Malaysian companies have made their mark in the construction and infrastructure sectors, having executed projects such as the Bahrain City Centre and Bahrain International Circuit.

Trade potential In the past, Malaysia has signed many Memorandums of Understanding with Bahrain in fields ranging from education to Islamic finance and banking and infrastructural cooperation, but none of these have been adequately activated, as the ambassador notes.

“We haven’t been aggressive in pursuing these agreements in absence of a Bahrain embassy in Malaysia. It’s crucial that Bahrain establish a functional embassy in Kuala Lumpur, or an Honorary Consul at the very least; in absence of a counterpart there, all our efforts will seem one-sided.”

Bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to US$592 million in 2010, a sizeable increase since 2008 when it was only US$216 million. However, the ambassador believes it is possible to raise this to US$2 billion by 2015, given the immense potential in sectors such as Islamic finance and banking, affordable housing, infrastructure and halal food, as well as in the service sector.

According to current estimates, Malaysia through ASEAN is likely to finalise its Free Trade Agreement with the GCC by 2012. “We’d expect links with Bahrain in the banking and finance sectors. Malaysia has a few decades’ expertise in Islamic banking and is home to INCEIF, the global Islamic finance institute,” he points out.

Already, the Bahrain Financial Exchange has signed an agreement with Bursa Malaysia to study a common platform on which Islamic finance products such as commodity murabahas can be traded.

“We’re looking at further improve the air-connection between Malaysia and Bahrain. The present system of code sharing with Gulf Air can be further improved and enhanced. We hope to have dedicated Malaysian carriers with Malaysian crew so passengers can blend into the Malaysian culture even before they land there,” says His Excellency.

Being one of the earliest economies in the region, Bahrain has immense potential Ambassador Shahizan believes, which can be further developed through high profile visits between the two countries.

xxxxx The message to the world is that while Malaysia strives for economic advancement and progress, it does not ignore the fundamental rights of citizens

spotlightthismonth Imran Al Aradi

All for the Laughs With a contract from Bahrain’s first talent management agency under his belt, funnyman Imran Al Aradi is out to prove that comedy does sell!

76 October 2011 BTM

Forging out a career in stand-up comedy is no laughing matter.

Ask Imran Al Aradi, Bahrain’s best known stand-up comedian who has been living off what many call “a mere hobby” for the last three years. A freelance artist since 2008, he has juggled various roles as a resident DJ at Radio Bahrain and an MC at corporate events and parties to stay afloat as a standup comedian.

Imran, though, has had the last laugh; he’s been signed up by Punchline Media, a Bahrain-based entertainment and events company that aspires to become the top talent management agency in the region.

At the newly-formed company the approach is similar to that of agencies across the USA and Europe, where signed-up talent focus on their art without having to worry about a day job or financial stability. Punchline will invest significantly in Imran’s brand and market him regionally and globally.

“To all the people who disbelieved and predicted that I wouldn’t survive, this is a vindication. You can be an entertainer and make a career out of it. This is a tremendous opportunity for talented youngsters to get spotted. As they say, one of the worst things in the world is wasted talent,” he observes.

An entertainer since his youth, Imran is naturally gifted in the art of self-mockery, thanks to a defence mechanism developed in school where he was bullied for his mixed parentage. As a Bahraini stand-up comedian with a Pakistani background he’s able to connect with both Arab and expatriate audiences owing to his understanding of both cultures and proficiency in Arabic, Urdu and Hindi.

Imran earned his first gig in 2008 at the Axis of Evil Commedy Tour Bahrain, which included international commedians Maz Jobrani and Ahmed Ahmed. Later on, in 2010, Imran brought Maz back to Bahrain with his “Brown & Friendly Tour” where he performed, promoted and organised his show in Bahrain and toured Saudi Arabia with him.

Multiculturalism and racial stereotypes have been the recurring themes in his work, but he’s now modifying his style into a more subtle and sarcastic take on the sad realities of life.

He’d love to emulate the success of Russell Peters, with whom he’s worked recently; his idols, however, remain Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy.

Untapped potential Punchline’s advent into the regional entertainment industry couldn’t have been better timed. The Arab world is finally beginning to acknowledge and understand stand-up comedy.

“As the exposure to western stand-up comic act grows, we’re finally learning to laugh at ourselves. Touring international artists bring good exposure to the local performers, who get to perform with them,” observes Imran.

Comedy was never looked upon as a career in the region but, with Punchline, perceptions are expected to change. “Not many corporate agencies are willing to invest money and time in local talent and this is where Punchline comes in,” says one of the company’s directors.

Punchline is on the lookout for all types of talent such as singers, musicians, dancers, models and so on. Many new faces will take to stage in coming months as the agency signs up fresh talent and markets them. The company will invest heavily in the entertainment scene with concerts and events lined up towards the year-end. It will also bring international personalities to Bahrain such as hip hop artists, musicians and singers as well as motivational speakers and business gurus.

Punchline seeks to make the most of social media networking through twitter and YouTube. Those interested can follow Punchline on Twitter @PunchlineME or mail their details to info@punchlineme.com to register for an audition.

Italian, reinvented.

An eclectic mix of classic and contemporary Italian dishes in a stylish, Sophisticated setting. Redefine your culinary and sensory experience at Bahrain’s premier Italian restaurant.

CAFÉ ITALIA PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT Location : Road 3825, off Sh.Isa Avenue, Adliya Telephone : 17 744 774 Fax : 17 742 229 e-mail : info@alialsharif.com smoking & non smoking area available

businessthismonth When? October 23-26 | Event? Exhibition and conference | Venue? Gulf International Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel

Chemical Excellence Bahrain plays host to a major engineering event, bringing together process and chemical engineering experts from all over the globe to discuss innovative ideas.

Placing Bahrain as one of the top players in the engineering industry, the Middle East Process Engineering Conference and Exhibition (MEPEC) 2011 will provide a platform for hundreds of professionals and exhibitors from around the world to share their ideas and display their most innovative tools and technologies.

MEPEC promises to leave no stone unturned by discussing, analysing and providing solutions to all matters that will push boundaries in the chemical industries. Topics covered throughout the event will include troubleshooting, process modelling and optimisation, performance management and green processing and sustainability. These topics will be discussed in detail by the industry’s leading companies and organisations.

The event, organised by the Saudi Arabian section of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the Bahrain Society of Engineers, will provide enthusiasts with opportunities to participate in interactive workshops to further optimise their experience. The five workshops will touch upon sulphur technologies and gas processing, process optimisation, amine treating, practical strategies for energy issues of chemical plant complexes and refinery economics.

Various industry giants will be attending as keynote speakers, including president of American Institute of Chemical Engineering Dr Maria K. Burka, vice-president of Aramco’s Also this month

Refining and NGL Fractionation Mohammed A. Al Omair, chairman of World Chemical Engineering Council Prof. David Wood, vice president of Engineering Product Management Aspen Tech Dr Vikas Dhole and chief executive officer of PCMC Gasem Al Shaikh.

One keynote speaker, Dr Vikas Dhole, explains his role, “I am pleased to be selected as a keynote speaker at MEPEC. Process engineering has undergone significant transformation over the last 30 years driven by advances in engineering catalysed by technology and software innovations. My intention is to highlight how process engineering is best practiced and how innovations in software tools can help give these companies a competitive advantage in the marketplace.”

Mosaed Al Ohali, the event’s chairman of the advisory committee and the executive vice president of Saudi Manufacturing SABIC ensures that the purpose of this event is to bridge the gap between the decision-makers and the aspirations of chemical and process engineers.

“There are a lot of projects in the pipeline, and we wish to see them during the exhibition which revolves around an idea floated by the organizers, that these projects should be in the knowledge of the industry’s professionals whose feedback will be then channel,ed back to the implementing process. I am sure the conferences will greatly benefit our region, international governments and authorities, construction industry, service providers and manufacturers,” notes Al Ohali.

When? October 18-20 Event? Green technology exhibition Venue? BIECC Exhibitors will demonstrate the latest technologies to preserve the environment.

E Call 17 550-760.

When? October 23-24 Event? World Bank conference Venue? Gulf Hotel Islamic banking and finance issues take centre stage at this annual event.

E Call 17 244-496.

When? October 23-26 Event? Process engineering conference Venue? Gulf Hotel Latest technologies and trends discussed as specialists converge on the Kingdom.

E Call 17 810-734.

E Call 17 810-734.

80 x Entrepreneur - 82 x Interview

BTM October 2011 79

businessentrepreneur

Financing Good Ideas Hasan Haider

“Above all, the business idea should be unique with the potential to expand regionally. Applicants should be clear about their future plans and how it’ll make money,” says Hasan.

Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) and ALBA are strategic partners in Tenmou, having invested 20 per cent and 10 per cent respectively in its initial capital of US$ 2.7 million.

BDO Jawad Habib has signed on to provide advisory services to entrepreneurs in human resources and business modelling, while Ernst & Young will provide assistance with business structuring and fund raising. Other partners include Unisono for assistance in branding, design and public relations, 4Spots will work on social media campaigns and The Capital Club, which is the venue for Tenmou events.

Grooming and mentorship Most angel investors happen to be successful entrepreneurs themselves and enjoy the thrill of helping to build and create a thriving enterprise.

Once their company is formed, Tenmou’s young entrepreneurs will go through a three-month intensive mentorship programme that will include one-to-one sessions in addition to twiceweekly meetings covering networking and contact-building, as well as sharing experiences.

“While capital is essential, what young entrepreneurs need most is good advice. It’s here that an angel investor can become a mentor. Since most have been or are business owners, they can advise best on the complexities of starting a business based on their own experience in the industry,” Hasan advises.

xxxxx Banks were willing to invest only in business ideas deemed ‘safe’ let alone ideas they didn’t understand As investors are exploring opportunities beyond the traditional real-estate and financial routes, the time is right for angel investment to unfold in Bahrain.

80 October 2011 BTM

Heading Bahrain’s first business angels company, Hasan Haider can fully appreciate the challenges struggling entrepreneurs face. The CEO of Tenmou recalls his travails as a budding entrepreneur as he struggled to inject capital into his online DVD rental business.

The question that haunted him was — why did young businesses find it so difficult to raise money?

Angel investing is commonplace in the United States and boasts more than 300,000 active angel investors; but Bahrain is not so kind to budding entrepreneurs. “Banks were willing to invest only in business ideas deemed ‘safe’ let alone ideas they didn’t understand,” he says.

Hasan along with his mentor, businessman Sami Jalal, floated the idea around and with support from Economic Development Board, Tenmou was formed.

A structured seed-fund, Tenmou has 16 investors including some of Bahrain’s top business families and aims to invest an average of BD20,000 for a 20 per cent stake in companies, at the seed level. While they do not insist on a complete business plan, the entrepreneur’s background, their passion and vision should be convincing.

The rewards Hasan believes that they have worked out a viable exit strategy and business angels can expect returns ranging from two to five times their investment within five years.

Having gone through significant mentorship and training, companies will be presented before potential investors and venture capitalists, who will be invited to buy out the angels’ share.

The risk at the seed stage is high, with only around half the companies expected to survive the next five years.

However, Hasan feels the risk can be diversified by investing widely across companies in different sectors, and will be mitigated further if young entrepreneurs are given the right contacts and sound advice.

“We believe there are a lot of unexplored business opportunities in Bahrain, regardless of the economic climate. What’s more, don’t forget some of the world’s best companies were born during a depression,” he says.

businessinterview Bert Plas

xxxxx I believe competition will enrich all of us and as a destination, Bahrain will become more known for quality Rather than focus on the GCC tourist alone, Sofitel in Bahrain, with its well-rounded package of services and accommodation will be marketed to all nationalities. The hotel’s 2,000 square metre seawater-based thalassa spa, which is unique to the GCC market, is set to be a primary draw.

“We’re working with travel agencies to have combined tourism packages along with our Dubai property to market the thalassa spa programme to Western tourists. Guests can discover a range of thalassotherapy treatments within a weeklong wellness trip to relax after a busy holiday in Dubai.”

The latest hotel to open in the luxury segment in Bahrain is undaunted by the competition. In fact, Bert revels in it.

“I believe competition will enrich all of us and as a destination, Bahrain will become more known for quality.

Competition should take away complacency; more hotels will be renovated and every operator will become more service oriented,” he hopes.

Bert knows that his main challenge will be to generate an even volume of business throughout the week and is working on packages to attract the corporate and wedding market on weekdays. With its resort-like ambience, the hotel is an ideal venue for corporate events, where executives and businessmen can participate in a relaxed atmosphere.

Service differentiator

Setting Benchmarks As more luxury hotels come on stream, the bar is constantly being raised for the hospitality sector in Bahrain. The new general manager at Sofitel shares his plans.

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Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Bahrain’s newest resort hotel has quietly opened its doors. The man at the helm is a Dutch national, whose very cosmopolitan career took him across Switzerland, North and South America, Turkey, the Caribbean and Egypt, before he landed in Bahrain this summer.

Bert Plas is aware that being a resort hotel it will take a few years for Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa to establish itself in the Bahrain market.

“With another five-star premise in Al Areen and the water park next door, we are perceived as a weekend destination; more of a getaway within Bahrain,” he notes.

For a small country, Zallaq might seem like a long drive, but those who arrive will discover the best beach that Bahrain has to offer for many years, he believes.

In a country where most hotels essentially offer the similar facilities, only service can set the best properties apart. This is especially true for the GCC travellers, who like special attention and personalised service.

“They want to see someone in charge and like to have their preferences and special requests remembered. GCC guests are very loyal and will come back to the same property if they’re comfortable,” notes Bert. “Ultimately, service will be the key factor in whether people like this hotel or not.”

At Sofitel, employees are treated as ambassadors who represent the French-style luxury brand. Handpicked staff from the Bahrain property are currently undergoing crosstraining at the company’s properties in Dubai, Philippines and Egypt to gain exposure to Sofitel’s standards of hospitality.

On the food and beverage front, the hotel has a varied offering with nine outlets, of which, the seaside restaurant La Mer will become most popular, be believes.

“We try to keep our cuisine as authentic as possible, with specialty chefs coming from the country of origin. In a connoisseur’s market such as Bahrain, we believe our reputation will be built from the food and beverage segment,” he says.

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

downtimethismonth

Doodle Frenzy Elma Bartholomew It’s always been there, but no one really paid much attention. Today, it’s the first thing an Internet junky looks for.

Even before they’ve hold of the news updates, they’ve typed the magical six-letter word onto the search bar. Why opt for an app that can give you everything you need to know, when you’ve got the chance to find another funky animation awaiting your attention.

The Google doodle had become so much of a trend recently, it even reached a point where everyone began to think the world’s biggest search engine might be overdoing it a little bit; especially, when the Freddy Mercury tribute last month seemed never-ending and a tad bit over the top.

Several drawings came and left and it seemed as though the excitement and newness linked to it had finally fizzed out.

After all, the rule is — if no one’s tweeting about it, it isn’t cool any longer. When the buzz began to vanish (pun intended), they released the revamped look of everything and anything they owned; noticeably Gmail’s homepage. How it made a difference nobody knows; clearly, nobody cared.

But people soon began to care when they launched another interactive doodle in memory of Jim Henson, the creator of muppets who brought about the option that monsters can be good guys. It might not be their best so far, and nothing close Also this month

to the Pacman version that got the whole world hooked onto it for a while. Nonetheless, digital puppeteering seemed like a cool way to start the day.

While they inadvertently prove that Web apps haven’t completely taken over the world and with everyone getting to try Google+ that doesn’t do much anyway, it looks like they’re trying to make a statement when they don’t want to. Their added effort is probably what’s getting them to move down the popularity chart.

Back on the surface But if they want to find out how to get back on top, they need to master the art of cheating death like Facebook just did.

Following the idea that any news is good advertising, they made massive updates.

For better or worse, getting people to return and find out what’s new is good enough for the social networking giant to counter the drastic drop of members lately.

Word has dropped that their recent revamp isn’t even the start of things. Watch out for ‘the timeline’. Erasing the need to dig up memories and easing the process of checking someone’s background, this allows you to document every single event of your life.

Go down memory lane if you will, because here’s your chance to have your whole life in front of your eyes right from when you were born. If you thought you were addicted before, you were wrong. The obsession has only begun.

Snooze no more

Are you a heavy sleeper? The diffusible alarm clock gives you the jolt you need; to shut the thing up you would need to pick from random wires to be cut!

House music!

iDJ Live is the easiest way to be a mix-master for events with your iPod touch, iPhone or iPad. If you have never tried DJing before, then this is the perfect app to get you started.

86 Gadgets x 90 Music x 92 Computer games x 94 Websites x 96 Satellite TV

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downtimegadgets

Inspect the Gadget This month, we take a look at a lot of new inventions that blend practicality with technology. A digital pen that writes on paper? A phone with a built-in projector? What’s next?

Between the lines

Sony’s new six-inch Wi-Fi-enhanced e-book reader ups the bar for others of its kind by adding a touch screen.

Weighing just 168 grams, it has put a deep dent in Kindle’s dominance. Its selling points are smoother and faster page turns and a dual touch feature for easy zooming.

Editors pick!

Eye-popping clarity Samsung has yet another release — the Galaxy Tab 7.7 — the first tablet that has the Super Amoled Plus display. It’s 7.89mm thin, weighs 335g and boasts the latest Android 3.2 Honeycomb OS. Saved in style The Victorinox Slim and Slim Duo USB plugs retract like the famous Swiss Army knife. Both are waterproof and shockresistant, with iron-clad protection and many layers of data encryption as well as password protection.

86 October 2011 BTM

See through it The Nikon Coolpix S1200pj hooks up to your iDevices while projecting images onto a wall or a screen up to 60 inches.

Add to that a 14.1 megapixel shooter, 5x optical zoom and 720p HD movie recording capability.

All charged up

Bowled over

The latest in Silverback’s Starke bicycle range has caught our gadget-obsessed attention. Included in the head tube of the frame is a USB port powered by a hub dynamo that can charge your phone or music player.

With the eight foot tavern bowling game, you can slide a chromed steel puck down a waxed formica lane and hit all ten tall pins right at home. The 27-inch LCD display keeps track of the score automatically and offers best-shot suggestions.

Got an inkling

Wacom’s new digital sketch pen bridges the gap between traditional, freehand sketching and digital development by capturing a digital likeness of a pen-on-paper sketch. Inkling’s ballpoint tip works on any sketchbook or standard piece of paper.

Turn it up

If you are on a hunt for a soundbar, you might be interested to know that Yamaha has unveiled their latest in the form of the YAS-101 which is also currently its least expensive. That should sound like reason enough to pick it up.

Behind the wheel If it’s that time of the day when the sirens go off in your head, take a break with the Maze Racer brain teaser. It plays techno music and even records your best time for those with a competitive streak.

Joining the pack

We haven’t seen that many docking stations for Android devices and now Philips is set to bring in the trend by launching an exclusive range. The Philips Fidelio docking stations will connect to your droid via the micro USB connector.

An immersive experience When worn, the Sony HMZ-T1 3D viewer has been designed to provide the equivalent of a 750-inch screen viewed from 20m away and is equipped with 5.1-channel virtual surround sound. The virtual screen has been designed to be wider than most peoples field of vision.

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downtimeyoungachiever

For the Love of Music Breaking several barriers, this young lady is on the road to making it big as a Bahraini female guitarist.

She reveals the ups and downs of her ongoing venture.

ELMA BARTHOLOMEW

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Having always loved the sound of the guitar, this 20-year-old has been a fan of music ever since she can remember.

Strumming her own tunes for over seven years now, Wadeeah Ahmed has gained the attention of the public eye since her first performance in The Lost Paradise of Dilmun alongside the renowned DJ Leil.

Although she joined several music institutes, she found her true calling during her practice sessions at home. She began to experiment with the guitar and found it to be a technique more fruitful than the academic style of learning music. Having mastered impressive tricks of the game, playing for an audience should have come as a natural instinct.

“The first time I performed with DJ Leil was the first time most of my near and dear found out that I could play the guitar,” she recalls. “It was a tough first step as I was unsure of the feedback I’d receive.”

An unbelievably positive response from the crowd, family and friends assured Wadeeah that she was going to be on stage more often. Currently playing medleys and soft rock, this young musician looks forward to the day when she can play the genre that she truly loves — heavy metal.

“For a girl in a hijab, it is really hard to find a place in the rock music scene in Bahrain. But it isn’t impossible,” she affirms. “I always meet people who list reasons why what I’m doing is wrong, but I meet more people who have encouragement and motivation to spare.”

Evidently a traditional Bahraini girl, it is hard for people to imagine her jamming away on stage. But that point of view

completely changes once they’ve watched her perform.

“Women are proud of me as I represent the female community in the field of music in the present generation,” Wadeeah states.

Behind the veil Every artist has a point in life where they consider dropping it all. For Wadeeah, this happened at an early stage with the loss of a dear one that shook her completely. It kept her away from music for a few years.

“A bout of being overly religious also brought internal doubts until I realised there is nothing that can separate me from the one thing that I am passionate about,” she says. “It has changed me for the better and I’ve learnt to maintain a balance.”

Currently working on a tribute to Bob Marley and Amy Winehouse, Wadeeah’s long-term goal involves performing her originals around the world and being recognised as one of Bahrain’s first female guitarist.

“My guitar is like my diary and each composition is an expression of my feelings,” she says. “Through my music, I feel like I’m giving something back to those who support me and feel positively about my attempts.”

To other youngsters trying to make it big, she requests not to have your dreams dampened by those who say there is nowhere to go.

“Negative response should add to your feedback, so you can better yourself,” she explains. “Nothing should stop you from your dream; network, learn continuously and just keep going.”

downtimemusic

Deadly Tunes No one thinks twice about picking up an album from Red Hot Chili Peppers; but this time we suggest you reconsider it. Nikki Jean, on the other hand, seems to have made a decent debut.

Black Tide

Post Mortem

TH

WHAT’S THE STORY? Miami’s own Black

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RATING:

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Tide makes their triumphant return with Post Mortem. It starts off on a high note, reminding fans of why they fell in love with the band the first time around. The standout track would be Into the Sky which starts with an acoustic intro and lyrically is one of the more powerful songs on the disc.

This album has some of the heaviest music the band has ever recorded in tandem with some of the softest they’ve ever written.

While the overall theme of the album seemingly revolves around death, the life on the album is what will draw you in.

WORTH A LISTEN?

Post Mortem leaves the group’s rough-around-the-edges riffs in the rear-view mirror as it features a polished production. This time around, the tracks feel a little less metal and a lot more mainstream rock; the unlikely vocal pairings offer up an appealing combination while they are framed perfectly by flawless guitar work.

The track, That Fire, is a definite fist-pumper; the guitar breakdown in the middle of the song will stop you in your tracks, if only to head-bang momentarily. For Black Tide, this venture symbolises them pushing away from the hard rockheavy metal phase of the ‘80s into a more contemporary style.

VERDICT: This album takes the band in a new direction that might surprise a few people.

TOP TRACKS: Ashes, That Fire, Into the Sky. Red Hot Chili Peppers

I’m with You Sometimes when a huge creative force departs it can result in the band producing inferior material. I’m with You certainly does suffer due to the absence of John F. tracks, which would have been surefire winners, are left leaving the album sounding a bit dull.

It’s not all bad, though. Moving away from the funk rock of old does show a new freshness but does so with patchy results. Simply put, there’s not enough top drawer tunes.

90 October 2011 BTM

David Guetta

Nothing but the Beat With electro-pop and dance music seemingly as big in the pop music landscape as they’ve ever been, Guetta seems poised to have a massive hit record.

Nikki Jean

Pennies in a Jar The songs can sometimes become a bit too Motown and start sounding a little too blended together. Lyrics and crisp high frequencies are hopeful aspects of the debut record.

Tel: +973 17814777 Fax: +973 17814778 P.O. Box: 20682, Jufair Kingdom of Bahrain E-mail: info@ pars bahrain.net www.pars bahrain.net

downtimecomputergames

Third Time’s a Charm TH GA E M M E ON TH

A true blast from the past, the Wii version of Final Fantasy III has won our vote. We thought remakes would be a bad idea, until we had a go at Star Fox 64 3D.

Final Fantasy III (Wii)

OF

The virtual console offers another incredible reminder of Nintendo’s roleplaying past. The best in the series, its story is incredibly compelling. The new Wii edition is an excellent version especially for your first Final Fantasy experience. The standard suspend point feature is a highlight in lengthy dungeon sequences.

Resistance III (PS3)

Iron Brigade/Trenched (Xbox 360) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Trenched takes place in an alternate world where soldiers use trenches (giant anthropomorphic machines) in an effort to fight a madman and his army of constructs. Part third-person shooter, part tower defence, the game challenges you to fight wave after wave of enemies in a variety of stages. Sometimes you’re defending one position, other times you’re defending multiple; but the goal is always the same.

This time, the action is more focused and tightly structured. While the big military operations have been replaced by more intimate battles, the sense of scale is as intimidating as ever.

Multiplayer in the game remains of the same high calibre as before. It is a must-buy for PS3 shooter fans.

GRAPHICS:

What makes Trenched more than just another tower defence or shooter title is its well-developed atmosphere. The campaign story isn’t that important to the levels themselves, but the writing is witty. The setting is just really well done, perfectly capturing the feeling of the alternate mid-20th century. It also does well with the statistics, letting you see things like range and damage for all the different weapons while you’re building your trench.

GAMEPLAY:

The skilful blend of witty writing, fun shooting, and tactical tower defence makes for hours of replay-able gameplay. Besides a couple of boss battles, all the levels boil down to the simple goal of staying alive and defending a point. Between levels you return to a hub world on top of an aircraft carrier. Here you can inspect and customise your trench, choose your level and invite friends to join you in your hub before taking to the field.

VERDICT: It is one of the best downloadable games released all year.

92 October 2011 BTM

Star Fox 64 3D (Wii) This impressive remake of Star Fox 64 manages to improve upon the original without compromising on the magic that made it so memorable. With fast action, thrilling levels, memorable characters, and plenty of fun and laughs to enjoy, it’s a must-have for any 3DS owner.

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Thor RATING: DIRECTED BY: Kenneth Branagh STARRING: Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Hopkins, Natalie Portman

THE PLOT:

Any Marvel Comics fan will find this section useless, but for the newbies to the character, Thor, here’s a gist of what’s going on. The warrior Thor (Hemsworth) is cast out of the fantastic realm of Asgard by his father Odin (Hopkins) for his arrogance and sent to Earth to live among humans.

Falling in love with scientist Jane Foster (Portman) teaches him much-needed lessons, and his new-found strength comes into play as a villain from his homeland sends dark forces toward Earth.

WORTH WATCHING? If you’re into comics, this should be an easy movie to digest; otherwise, the rainbow bridge and the costumes might put you off. Although other adaptations like the Iron Man and Spiderman series seemed to reach a wider crowd, this has all the criteria of a children’s flick including humour that can only bring a smile to our face or a ‘meh’ with a shrug of the shoulders. It is an easy watch; but it will feel like you’ve borrowed your little brother’s DVD.

VERDICT: It’s nothing more than a ‘good guy beats bad guy’ story.

X-Men: First Class Highly flawless and a pure entertainer, this movie doesn’t have the level of suspense its predecessors boasted. Perhaps a little longer than you wish it’d last, it has no serious flaws. But, of course, the ladies could use a little more of Hugh Jackman.

Bridesmaids The rest of the world might claim this movie to be a winner; but then again most people don’t understand good humour.

Certainly not deserving the applause it received, this Blu-ray is better off on the shelf in the store than at home.

BTM October 2011 93

downtimewebsites

A Creative Touch OF

TE TH SI ON EB M W THE

Have a go at these websites which are bound to tickle your creative buds. It’s time you drop in a post and get published on some of the most widely read blogs.

Notcot.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Notcot Inc is a growing network of design sites. It is a visual filtration of ideas, aesthetics and amusements. Providing creative ideas since 2005 with visually stunning imagery, the latest in international trends, and a passion for all things well-designed, this website is a must-visit .

THE GOOD:

It can become your daily source of inspiration — a welcome blessing for those suffering from the ‘creativity block’. Each image and caption brings you to a place worth visiting; it’s about sharing what inspires you. It brings you to an endless world of fresh ideas.

THE BAD: There isn’t anything to complain about with regard to this website; unless, of course, you think being hooked onto it is a problem. Be sure to enter this site only when you have hours to spare because each post will link you to a million other interesting things and, before you know it, you’re in the middle of a never-ending stream of links.

VERDICT: A brilliant source of creative ideas for anyone looking for them!

Sixwordstoryeveryday.com This is a forum for a daily storytelling exploration through language and typography. It was inspired by the work Ernest Hemingway regarded as his greatest — For Sale: Baby Shoes, Never Worn. It encourages you to participate through your writing, design or both. One six-word story will be posted each day. The only catch is it should be original work. All you need to do is email it to them. Who knew cooking up stories would be fun?

Theburninghouse.com This one struck our attention and never quite left — a website that is probably as unique and interactive as it gets. The theme is simple. If your house was burning, what would you take with you? Make a list, place them together and click a picture. Then, explain your choice in a brief paragraph and submit. The posts are quite interesting — a must-read without doubt.

94 October 2011 BTM

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movies

Captain America: The First Avenger RATING: DIRECTED BY: Joe Johnston STARRING: Chris Evans, Hugo Weaving, Stanley Tucci

THE PLOT: Proving his extraordinary courage, wits and conscience,

Steve Rogers who had been rejected umpteen times as a potential soldier gets a chance to prove himself. He undergoes an experiment that turns his weak, sickly self into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending his land. Meanwhile, Nazi Germany’s head of its secret research department, Johann Schmidt aka the Red Skull proves to be the world’s worst nightmare.

WORTH WATCHING?

It’s probably not the best movie of the year but it certainly is an entertaining watch. Evans does a decent job of looking good. Weaving could look less like he was prepped by a school-going kid. As in all other Marvel adaptations, it’s worth sticking around for a few seconds after the credits.

VERDICT: A pleasant treat for Marvel fans; a better treat for Evans’ fans.

And Soon the Darkness If this is what suspense thrillers have come to be, the genre should just call it quits and retire. It would be a more successful film if it really was an hour-and-a-half of darkness.

Conan the Barbarian This wouldn’t be a good choice for the faint-hearted. With more gory scenes than one would want to watch in a whole year, this flick is nothing more than a flood of blood. The fight sequences are sufficiently impressive .

BTM October 2011 95

downtimesatTV WHEN? OSN First, every Monday

MOVIES

127 Hours This true story follows the tragic and dramatic entrapment of adventure enthusiast Aron Ralston (James Franco). Ralston takes off on a spontaneous hike to Blue John Canyon in Utah without leaving word of his whereabouts with anyone. When climbing in the canyon, a boulder dislodges and falls, crushing his arm against the wall and trapping him inside the canyon alone and with no human company for miles.

Aron is confined without a phone and very little food and water. After a few delirious days, it soon becomes clear to both viewer and Aron that he will die trapped in the canyon unless he can face the extreme torment of amputating his own arm to free himself.

SERIES/SPECIALS

Desperate Housewives (Season 8) The eighth and final season of the award-winning drama, revolving around the lives of the women from Wysteria Lane, has finally arrived on our screens. We’ve followed Bree, Lynette, Gabby and Susan for seven years sharing in their heartache and triumphs; now our four favourite feisty housewives return with new family dramas and romantic complications that will surely keep you engrossed until the finale.

The season will focus on the repercussions following the murder of Gabby’s stepfather as secrets and truths unravel and we are left guessing if the murder will be discovered and who will take the blame. Tom and Lynette’s relationship will also be under the spotlight with the possibility of permanent separation and, perhaps, even new romantic interests.

WHEN? OSN Box Office 1, October 14-20

Justin Bieber: Never Say Never

WHEN? Every Monday on BBC Lifestyle.

WHEN? Every Wednesday on OSN First.

WHEN? Every Tuesday on OSN First.

Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Secrets (Season 1)

True Blood (Season 4)

Private Practice (Season 5)

Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc returns with his cookery programmes perfect for all aspiring chefs.

He will teach a range of both achievable and inspirational recipes for cooks of all abilities, step by step.

96 October 2011 BTM

Our favourite vampire friends are back with a vengeance.

The bloody threat of Russell Edgington may have subsided, but trouble will come for Sookie Stackhouse, Bill Compton, Eric Northman and their Bon Temps allies this summer.

The new season takes off with Addison and the other doctors divided between their two practices. Various questions from the finale of season 4 will be answered; will Addison get the child she craves and will Pete be ok?

Every teenage girl’s fantasy comes true with heartthrob Justin Bieber’s personal movie. Viewers are offered a rare insight into the teenage pop star’s life and how he rose from street performer to an international phenomenon.

WHEN? OSN Box Office 1, October 7-13

Charlie St. Cloud This heartfelt film tells the story of Charlie (Zac Efron), a small-town hero and an accomplished sailor who has it all. His bright future is cut short when tragedy strikes, taking his dreams with it, leaving Charlie torn between two paths to take.

WHEN? OSN Premiere, October 14

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Florine & Ignatius 50th Wedding Anniversary Party Florine & Ignatius Mathias celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family & friends last month. The couple renewed their vows at the Sacred Heart Church in Manama, presided over by the Catholic Church for Bahrain, Vicar Apostolic of Kuwait, Bishop Camillo Ballin, followed by a dinner reception at the Bishop Tirinanzi Auditorium

Florine & Ignatius with Bishop Camillo Ballin & Sacred Heart Chruch priests

Ignatius & Florine

Ignatius & Florine with HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, on the right, family members & friends

Teresa & Anisha

Sunita & Sangeeta

Ignatius & Florine with their sons James & Donald

Meera & Kausar

Francis & Jerry

Xaverina & Valanka

Neelu & Karan

Ashalatha & Shantharam

Roshini & Shanthini

Alex & Jude

Hazel & John

Shirley & Soman

Freddy & Philomena

Mehru & Cyrus

Esther & Lucy

Mr & Mrs Frank Ryde

Maha & Rawan

Lynne

Abraham

John

BTM October 2011 97

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Tricom Group Ghabga Tricom Group, local partners for Selex Sistemi Integrati in Bahrain held a ghabga for their clients and civil aviation officials at the Al Khayma Tent, Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. HE Captain Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs also attended the ghabga

Abdulla Janahi & Col. Ahmed Al Murran

Ayat & Faisal

98 Octo ber 2011 BTM

Ahmed Nemat, HE Abdulrahman Al Gaoud & Tareq Wafa

Jaclynn, Richard & Kim Phillips

Col. Khalifa Al Binali & 1st Lt Mohammed Al Obeidi

Tareq & Paola Wafa with Temes Foschi

Tareq & Paola Wafa wih colleagues and guests at the event

Alia & Ismail

Mohamed

Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Centre Anniversary Party The Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Centre hosted a party for staff and guests to celebrate the centre's 7th anniversary.At the event, staff members performed traditional Indian dances and songs

At the cake cutting are K.T. Mohammed Ali, Dr Salman Al Garib, Jaffar Abdulla, staff & guests

Dr Sunitha & Dr Alemma

Rasheeda, Mehnanna, Shameer, Khadeeja & Mohammed

Denzey, Joysil & Lincy

Dr Sai & Dr Salman

Shabeer Ali & Jubi

Yasmin & Habeeb

Anil & Sheela

Faisal, Habeeb, Rauf, Abatty, Raju & Aleem

US Embassy Reception To Welcome New Staff US Embassy ChargÊ d’Affaires Stephanie Williams hosted a reception at her residence to welcome and introduce new American Embassy staff and Fulbright students. The event was attended by officials from the government, representatives from the private sector, members of the diplomatic corps, businessmen, members of the Shura Council and other guests

Scott, Aylin & Stephanie

Rick, Jalil & Kevin

Dr Mohammed, Daniel, Jaison, Stephanie, Dr Dhafer, Farouk & Daniel

Daniel, Kelly & Ashleen

Nasser, Stephanie & Nabeel

Jenny & Jaison

Karina & Qays

Waleed

Theodore & Zia

Jessica & Stephen

BTM October 2011 99

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Faces This Month From Ramadan tents, to nightclubs, from karoke evenings, to restaurants and coffee shops, our photographers were busy taking a look at people making the most of and enjoying Bahrain's varied and diverse nightlife Fix & Irina at JJ's Karaoke

Grace, Raabia & Laura, at JJ's Karaoke

Basma & Riya

100 Octo ber 2011 BTM

Kiwi the Pixie & Natalie

Vidhur & Parul

The man from Uncle... with his nephs

The brothers HOLDING, Charlie & Graham

Mona & Zainab

Shankar & Rene

Natalia

Mozah, Eman & Sara

Yousaf & Hosam

Amani

Fajar, Mariam & Shooq Sara, Radwa & Suzi

Fatima, Nada & Ameera

Alex & Marian

Ehab

Dalal & reem

Nahrawan & Dalal

Nader, Nabeel & Mosa

Tamara & Noor

Dj Ooops

Zara & Mais

Renda, Susan & Zeena

Dana, Hala & Susan

Shaikha's Asma & Shikha

Om Khalid & Khulood

Derick

Zaina & Leen

BTM October 2011 101

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BOL Film Premiere A Pakistani movie that broke all previous box-office records in their country has been released in Bahrain.

HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador and other dignitaries attended the premiere of the Urdu movie Bol (translated as ‘speak’) at Seef Cinema last month

HE Jauhar Saleem, Zarine Jauhar, Ayan & HE's nephew

HE Jauhar Saleem & guests at the premiere

Ramadan Ghabga For Sofitel Bahrain Ambassadors To celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan, the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa hosted a Ghabga for its ambassadors. The event was held at the Al Nakheel Ballroom was part of the monthly ambassadors’ party to honour top performing employees for the month of August

Khalifa, Ebrahim, Bert Plas, general manager of Sofitel, Hessa & Zahra, who completed a Basic First Aid & CPR course

Hessa & Zahra, who attended the Berlitz English Course Certificate with Bert Plas

Bert with Premkumar - Ambassador of the month Back of the House

Bert with Deborah - Ambassador of the Month Front of the House

Bert Plas with Joyce Lyn Alcid - Supervisor of the Month

Mike's Farewell Party A farewell party was held to bid goodbye to Mike Green prior to his departure back to the US. The party was held at Casa Mexicana Restaurant in Adliya

102 Octo ber 2011 BTM

Arthur, Mike & Shani

Simon, Shani & George

Chris (Old EO) Mike (New EO) USCG

Bless & David

Eddie, Natalie, Shani & Mike

Porsche Bahrain Iftar Porsche Bahrain hosted a media Iftar at the L'Hotel, Seef District during the Holy Month

Firas & Anthony

Natalia & Anna

Imad

Khalid

Abdul Majeed

Tariq & Sameer

Bahrain Goans Football League The Bahrain Goans held a 11-aside Football League at Al-Hunaniya Park grounds in Riffa. Around 50 Goan footballers competed in the league which was divided into married and bachelor players. The event was sponsored by Maxy Fernandes, Palace Enterprises

Vincent D'Costa & Maxy Fernandes receive the winners trophy from Francis Corriea

Francis Corriea with Bahrain Goan Football League committee members

Guest of Honour Gabriel Castro welcomed by Karl

Roque Fernandes gets the runners-up trophy from Francis

Guest of Honour Francis Corriea welcomed by Meagan

Joaquim D'Costa, referee being honoured by Francis

BTM October 2011 103

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Jessica & Vivek Engagement Party Manoj & Snehal Bhatia celebrated the engagement of their daughter Jessica with Vivek with a party at the Al Muharraq Ballroom, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa last month Jessica & Vivek

Ebrahim Zainal

Snehal Bhatia, Jessica, Vivek & Manoj Bhatia

Sawsan & Dr Yousef Mashal

Bhagwan

Ruchita, Jyoti, Jessica, Vivek & Ramesh

Vijayeta, Yogesh, Harsha, Urvashi & Saurav

Tolaram Kavalani & Lalchand Gajria

Vijay Bhatia, Dilip Bhatia & Mukesh Kavalani

Baboo Kewalram, Vijay Boloor, HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, Mohmammed Malim, Cyrus & Indu Kumar

Nasser Alarayedh, Nabeel Ajoor & Anoop Kewalram

Kaku, Lata, Bharti, Harsha & Yogesh

Manoj Bhatia & family

Bharat & Divya

104 October 2011 BTM

Nishan & Hemant

Hemant, Jessica & Bharat

Othman Sharif

Bharti, Snehal & Shanta

Mala, Bharti & Preeti

Beena Kewalram, Reem Alarayedh & Jehan Alarayedh

Ferrari Bahrain held a ghabga for select guests at the Ramadan Tent at The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Seen here, George & Anne Middleton, Meher Parakh, marketing manager, Ferrari, George Cherian, George & Barbara Williams

The Kempinski group, Europe’s oldest and renowned luxury hotel brand, has unveiled their newest property, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre. Seen here are, Florian Wille, Vivian Lorenz, Holger Jackisch, Hilary Philpott, Stephan Kaminski - Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre team

Bahrain Family Leisure, owners of Ponderosa Steak House held a charity drive to support the Royal Charity Organisation (RC. The company presented a cheque to the organisation and also invited the kids and management of the charity to a free Iftar buffet at the restaurant last month. Seen here are, Paul Sarlas, general manager, Bahrain Family Leisure & Aala The inaugural GCC Games’ (Bahrain 11) mascot “Ghaleb” paid a surprise visit to Adhari Park on the second and third days of Eid Al-Fitr to the amusement of the crowds, especially children

Sadananda Gowda, Chief Minister of Karnataka evinced keen interest in visiting Bahrain. He mentioned this during a meeting in Bangalore with Sunny Kulathakal, managing editor of Sunliz Publications, Bahrain

IndianOil, India's oil giant with an annual sales turnover of $70 billion, has launched its SERVO brand of lubricants in Bahrain. Seen here at the press conference held at the Gulf Hotel to announce the launch are, Subrat Kar, N. Srikumar, G.C. Daga, D. Sen & A.N. Radhakrishnan

Orient Motors, a subsidiary of Zayani Motors (ZM), recently conducted a 3-day Distributor Management System (DMS) training program at the ZM showroom in Ma’ameer that was organized by China’s leading pick-up manufacturer, ZX-Auto. ZX-AUTO Regional Sales Manager Mr. Honway Chang, 4th from left, Nawaf Al Zayani, 5th from right, with the training team & Orient Motors management

BTM October 2011 105

motoringthismonth

Kia GT

Exploring New Ideas Kia unveiled its GT concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show last month, a first for Kia as the Korean automaker looks to expand its line-up of vehicles.

The powerful, dynamic and forward-looking Kia GT concept car, which signals the company’s distinctive new design direction, took centre stage on the company’s stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The sleek and muscular four-door sports sedan come with rear-wheel drive.

“No matter from which perspective you look at the Kia GT,

Also this month

108 x Showcase - 110 x Showcase

it is roaring with energy and ready for take-off,” commented Peter Schreyer, Kia chief design officer at the launch. “I believe this concept car is a strong statement from Kia that we are ready to fast-forward to an all-new chapter.”

The 4,690-mm long concept has the classic front engine, rearwheel drive layout of a high performance sedan which ensures very different proportions from a front-wheel drive car. The GT concept allowed Kia to explore exciting new visual paths, with an extended bonnet and the front wheels pushed to the very front of the car.

The cab-rearward stance facilitates a design with powerful rear shoulders and a truncated rear end.

Beneath the extended bonnet, power is provided by a 3.3-litre turbocharged Lambda V6 GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine generating 534 of torque, through an eight-speed automatic transmission gear box.

The front doors and rear-hinged back doors open at a slight upward angle ensuring easy access to the spacious and airy interior which provides generous, uncluttered cabin accommodation for four people. This is in part thanks to the GT’s unusually long wheelbase (2,860 mm) and despite its low stance and an overall height just 1,380 mm.

Under Schreyer’s guidance, Kia’s European design team set out to create a concept car that was graceful, athletic and confident, but not aggressive or overbearing. The focus on dynamism and pace was enhanced by the aeronautical theme adopted for many of the GT’s features.

Maserati SUV Also at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Maserati unveiled its new sport luxury SUV, the Kubang, which is expected to be hit showrooms during 2013.

The SUV for the high-end automobile manufacturer, the Kubang nevertheless retains the integrity of the brand’s DNA, in harmony with core values of sportiness, style, elegance, luxury, performance and craftsmanship.

The Kubang’s styling has been created by the Maserati Style Center, headed by Lorenzo Ramaciotti; newgeneration high-tech proprietary engines will be designed in Modena by Paolo Martinelli. An AT eight-speed automatic transmission and specific performance settings will be exclusively developed in Modena as well.

BTM October 2011 107

motoringwheels

Definitely Evocative!

DAVID M. ROBERTSON It might be a vehicle, but the Range Rover Evoque is also a statement of intent with its smooth edges and sporty appearance.

When you take a vehicle out for a test drive, it is usually a very private affair; not so with the Range Rover Evoque. If you are paranoid that something might be wrong with you, then this is not the car for you!

I appreciate other motorists flashing their lights and asking me to stop, as happened recently on a visit to the United Kingdom, to let me know the rental I was driving had a flat rear tyre. But, really, stopping a fellow driver to ask where you can the buy the car you are driving is an entirely different matter. Again and again I was pursued around town as eager beavers wanted to know where they could acquire, and inspect, Range Rover’s new Evoque. The answer: Euro Motors’ Land Rover showroom, shortly.

If you want to get your hands on your own Evoque, you will have to be quick though. Initial supplies are likely to be limited; if our experience is anything to go by, they won’t be occupying floor space at the showroom for long — if at all.

Pitched as an entry level Range Rover, the Evoque aims to attract, among others, a younger audience with a vehicle that oozes style. The sleek, crossover look is a far cry from the fully-loaded, albeit luxury, ‘box on wheels’ of its more illustrious stablemates.

Ticking the boxes Any first impression that this ‘small’ Range Rover might be short on internal space is quickly dispelled once ensconced behind the cockpit; it is suitably spacious, extremely comfortable and the equally ‘small’ rear window is no impediment to rear vision.

Yes, it is packed with all the comforts you would expect from a

Model Range Rover Evoque Model year 2012 Engine type 2-litre, SI 4 Displacement 2,000 cc Horsepower 240 hp @ 5,500 rpm Torque 461 Nm @ 1,750 rpm Transmission Six-speed auto-transmission, with drive select Acceleration 0 to 60 mph: 3.9 seconds Top speed 135 mph

108 October 2011 BTM

Range Rover. One glance at the accompanying table to this article will quickly tell you it’s also got plenty of ‘oomph’ — there’s an impressive amount of torque at low revs. We can certainly vouch for this, having taken the Evoque for a quick spin around the F1 track at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).

While we suspect this vehicle is going to spend more time on the road rather than off it, the Evoque contains all of the brand’s 4x4 credentials; it handled the obstacles we put it through on the BIC’s 4x4 course with ease. There are two acid tests that never fail to disappoint when putting a vehicle to the sword; the instant braking power of a top-end sports car and switching on the hill descent button on a 4x4 — and taking your foot off the brake!

Model options Rather than using a traditional trim hierarchy, the Range Rover Evoque offers customers the choice of three stylish design themes: the cool and contemporary ‘Pure’, the luxurious ‘Prestige’ (which I drove), and the bold and sporting ‘Dynamic’.

Customers can further tailor these themes with different designer interiors, option packs, standalone and accessory items, providing even more freedom to specify the car of their choice.

Initially, Euro Motors will stock the Dynamic option.

E Call 17 750-750.

BTM October 2011 109

motoringshowcase

Y. K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

F1 Pedigree Renault does not just run its own F1 team; it provides engines to Red Bull and Team Lotus, becoming an integral component of the motors sports business.

The Renault RS27 engine powered Red Bull Racing’s Sebastian Vettel to a dominant victory at the Italian Grand Prix last month, nearly ten seconds ahead of second-placed Jenson Button. Vettel sealed a near lights-to-flag win as he raced to his second career victory at the Italian Grand Prix and took his points total in the drivers’ championship to a massive 284 points.

In doing so Vettel secured Renault’s first win at the Italian Grand Prix since 1995, and chalking up the 138th win for the French manufacturer. Renault has also won 189 pole positions during its F1 history.

Red Bull Racing Vettel secured the 13th pole of the year for Red Bull in qualifying and although lost the lead at the start of the race to Alonso, was able to move back into the lead after the safety car was withdrawn on lap four. He then used a two-stop pit strategy to cruise to his eighth win of the year and could now mathematically secure the title at the next round in Singapore.

Red Bull still leads the constructors’ championship with 451 points to McLaren’s 325. Webber is now fourth in the drivers’ rankings, equal on points with Jenson Button.

Lotus Renault GP After a strong qualifying, which saw both Lotus Renault GP cars start in the top ten, both drivers were affected by the first

110 October 2011 BTM

corner incident. Bruno Senna was forced to take evasive action to avoid the spinning cars and slipped back to 15th, while Vitaly Petrov was hit and retired on the spot.

Senna fought back up the field and thanks to a high top speed down the straights, which peaked at 347 kph, opened his points account with a strong ninth position. The team now has 70 points and a clear fifth position in the championship.

Team Lotus Jarno Trulli started his home Grand Prix from 19th position, but was forced into an early pit stop after a collision with Felipe Massa. Rejoining the race and switching to a one-stop strategy, he pushed hard to move into 14th place by the end of the 53-lap race.

Commenting on the race, Rémi Taffin, head of Renault Sport F1 track operations, said: “Monza is the hardest circuit of the year for engines, with close to 75 per cent of the lap spent at full throttle. A high top speed is the goal and yesterday we peaked at nearly 350 kph down the pit straight. Bruno Senna also recorded the top speed of the field at 347 kph, which is a testament to the hard work put in by Renault engineers.”

Monza is regarded as the ultimate test for the engine, so a win here is — for an engine supplier — is a very special event.

E Call 17 732-732.

Skoda Fabia

AHMED ZAYANI & SONS

Spawning Happy Drivers This ubiquitous brand has secured for itself a niche within the motoring industry and, increasingly, delivers vehicles which offer customers plenty to smile about.

The history of the Skoda brand is littered with exceptional cars; the Superb, Octavia and Fabia are three such models.

Superb performance The all-new 2011 Skoda Superb has grown in virtually every respect, with more room for passengers and their luggage and greater comfort and dynamism. Some of the technology contained within the Superb is unique; some are seen in the car for the first time, others are making their debut and there are even some that have never been seen anywhere before.

The industry-first and highly unique ‘Twindoor’ feature, patented by Skoda, makes the car all the more practical whilst still retaining its now characteristic elegance. The aweinspiring parking assistant, that automatically parks the car at the touch of a button, and the advanced adaptive front lighting system, with Xenon lamps, enhance day-to-day convenience.

Out on the road, the Superb’s dynamism shines through; the Audi-derived 3.6-litre V6 is impeccably smooth, and delivers thrust in a progressive and linear fashion. The suspension and all-wheel drive set-up ensures that the Superb feels surefooted, and extremely stable at high speeds.

Uplifting Octavia The Octavia is Skoda’s mid-sized sedan that is available in two body styles, as a sedan and a station wagon. The latest model has undergone a thorough facelift; the end result is a breathtakingly stunning interior and exterior design cues with the performance to match.

The refreshing design is all about emotion; it is a car created out of true passion for automotive engineering — a virtue that is almost impossible to come by in this segment.

From the front, the Octavia seems to be smiling albeit with a hint of aggressiveness via the angular fog lights and two-piece split radiator grille, offering a unique and individualistic character that sets it apart from any other car on the road.

The highlight, though, is its engine and transmission; no other car in its segment has ever been so wonderfully endowed.

The sedan comes equipped with a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine that’s mated to a seven-speed DSG dual clutch gearbox, which is a first for a car in this price range.

Fabulous Fabia The Fabia has undergone a subtle yet refreshing facelift, bringing the fascia more in-line with the rest of the Skoda line-up. Call it a ‘family-face’, the new design certainly does the Fabia justice, delivering bolder and smarter looks compared with previous generations.

The 1.6-litre I-4 engine is extremely torquey, mated to a smoothshifting six-speed automatic gearbox, which also allows the driver to shift gears manually via a Tiptronic manual mode. Inside, the Fabia is super-quiet with very minimal road, engine or wind noise.

Skoda is distributed in the Kingdom by Ahmed Zayani & Sons.

Prices for the Fabia, Octavia and Superb start at BD5,000, BD8,450 and BD11,900 respectively. Call today for a test drive!

E Call 17 238-822.

BTM October 2011 111

motoringshowcase MOHAMMED JALAL & SONS

Power Accolade

Jaguar fanatics have spent years debating the auto brand’s superiority over others. Auto Express readers have declared the Jaguar XF as the ‘Car of the Decade’.

112 October 2011 BTM

Over a period of 10 years readers of Auto Express have been invited to participate in the Driver Power survey and evaluate the car they own. The detailed survey encompassed many aspects of vehicle ownership, from reliability to dealer performance, to design, handling and ease of use.

In that time over 300,000 readers participated with hundreds of individual cars being tested. The Jaguar XF emerged as Number One, the Driver Power ‘Car of the Decade’.

The award was presented to Dr Ralf Speth, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover and Andrew Whyman, XF chief programme

engineer, in front of staff at the Castle Bromwich factory.

“We are humbled by Jaguar owners voting in such a way to rate the XF as the number one car in the UK,” said Speth. “It’s a tremendous achievement for everyone in Jaguar, from the people here at Castle Bromwich who have been building the car since 2008 to the engineers, the designers and the dealers.”

Since 2008, Jaguar has sold more than 37,000 XF cars in the UK. In Bahrain, Jaguar is distributed by Mohammed Jalal & Sons.

E Call 17 707-070.

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Second Annual Animania Show The Second Annual Animania Show - the Gulf's biggest Anime and Video Games Convention was held at the Prestige Hall, Adhari Park last month Fatima, Samar & Yasmin

Yasser, Esma & Atif

Mazen

Maha & Chemiel

Stephanie, Saud, Lorrine & Stephanie

Arun & Ismael

Chemiel

Emad & Yasmine

Rawaq, Shaima, Reem & Maram

Qassim & Mohammed

Samar

Malak & Hana

Mona & Nasra

Abdulla & Mohammed

Amira & Marwa

Anusha & Aishwariya

Yasmeen, Kamal & Salman

Ali & Mahmood

Mahar, Mishal & Mai

Mohammed, Mishal & Essa

Maha

Noelle

Alaa

Fatima & Yasmin

BTM October 2011 113

reporthomefurnishing

Seasonal Concepts alison coldridge This season, copious furnishing styles are available from the opulent fused with the traditional to the ultra-modern and minimal look.

Just as we often need a personal do-over at the start of a new season, so does the space in which we live. It’s an incredibly refreshing result to fit a new kitchen or select some up-to-date furniture pieces to spruce up a nonchalant room.

Autumn and winter bring cooler temperatures and the rare chance to spend time outside, and it is worth investing in some garden furniture to make it a more enjoyable place to eat, socialise and relax.

There are also exciting new furniture-shopping ventures on the horizon this season, with the likes of Bo Concepts set to open its first showroom, full of innovative styling solutions, in the near future.

Almoayyed Furnishing A collection prominent in tradition is apparent this autumn/ winter at Almoayyed Furnishing. Browns in all different shades and off-whites provide the main colours of the furnishing items, reminiscent of autumnal hues and also traditional housing tones. The items are finished off with modern touches creating a look ideal for any living space. There are, of course, eclectic items which stand alone from the rest of the range in case you are after something slightly more distinctive. E Call 17 400-004.

Also this month

Almoayyed Furnishing

AJM Kooheji Group With an expansive collection of furnishing options adhering to both the traditional and modern taste, AJM Kooheji Group’s furnishing division is ideal for those who fancy browsing a wide selection before purchasing. All of the pieces are completed with a stylish flair and are constructed from quality and durable materials; if you don’t find anything that quite ticks all of the right boxes then you can opt for custom-made furniture and lend a hand in the design yourself. E Call 17 700-007.

AJM Kooheji Group

120 Creative Closets x 121 AJM Kooheji x 122 Roche Bobois x 123 The Closets x 124 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhroos x 125 Poliform

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reporthomefurnishing Creative Closets Style is the key word at Creative Closets this autumn. The company goes beyond their purpose of creating custom-made closets to fit into any space and ensures each closet is superstylish and innovative. Both sandblasted and decorated glass are incorporated into the closet doors giving that extra panache to the finished look. You can also select an innovative sliding door system ridding you of that awful squeak often associated with closets. E Call 17 610-612.

Danube Buildmart As the weather cools down, it is high time to take advantage of the great outdoors and Danube Buildmart have garden furniture in abundance in celebration. Garden tables, gazebos in both metal and wood, desk flooring, garden swings and even outdoor children play sets to ensure the whole family will venture out. Alternatively, if you feel like hibernating indoors, the store has a wide range of luxury sanitary furnishings; unwind in a luxury massage bath tub or relax in a steam or sauna room.

E Call 17 877-093 (Salmabad) or 17 382-480 (Bahrain Mall).

Creative Closets

Creative Closets

Phoenicia Decor

Freedom

Freedom Furniture There are four key trends at the Australian furniture shop Freedom this season, with options to suit every household.

Choose between the cooling coastal look, the never-go-out-offashion classic look, the earthy global look and the modern and sleek urban look. Each of these collections is bursting with both indoor and outdoor furniture separates and accessories — you can even add a scented candle to complete the look.

E Call 17 179-393 (BCC).

Phoenicia Décor New from Phoenicia Décor is outdoor furniture, ideal for enjoying some long-awaited cooler air. There is a bambooframed double seater to cosy up on and a lengthy woven sun lounger which is great for catching some rays by the pool. You can take your dining al fresco with plenty of differently designed table and seating sets — there are single seater chair options complete with dining table or sofa ensemble accompanied by a lower level coffee style table. E Call 17 564-444.

Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro

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Poliform Italian design brand Poliform’s new showroom is packed with everything you could need to decorate your home in the most of-the-minute way. The Varenna collection has the solution to every kitchen décor problem with current styles enriched with a high level of quality and you can also design your bathroom in a fabulously modern way with Antonio Lupi’s designs. There is also the option of customising the majority of the products, by selecting alternative fabrics, woods and sizes to create your furnishings just as you envisaged them. E Call 17 693-538.

reporthomefurnishing Roche Bobois A distinctive piece of furniture can enhance any room and Roche Bobois’ array of furniture incorporates unique items which are perfect stand-alones. The unique Vertige three-seater sofa has a quirky asymmetric back and metal legs, and the Latina modular wall-unit is full of storage shelves in different shapes and sizes. Or if you want something excessively interesting, fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier has designed a Ben Hur chariot-style armchair which will act as a talking point in any room of your choice! E Call 17 582-901.

The Closets International More storage space is always needed particularly when the seasons change over and more clothes are purchased. The Closets International expertly creates closets tailored to your requirements, in coordination with the size and style of your existing living space. You can be instrumental in the design of your closet, right down to the materials chosen and the styling of the hinges. The closet can be manufactured for any space, be it in the office, the bedroom or the living room.

E Call 17 277-010 (Salmaniya), 17 673-214 (Arad) or 17 622-610 (Sanad).

Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro If your kitchen is in dire need of a redesign, you would be well advised to pay a visit to Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro’s showroom to browse the pioneering Italian designs of Aran Cucine. At affordable prices, you can splurge on sleek counters and units and trendy or traditional accessories. Aran Cucine prides itself on great attention to detail, which is apparent down to the very last paint detail on each unit. E Call 17 408-111.

Roche Bobois

Poliform

The Closets

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reporthomefurnishing

Clever Little Closet CREATIVE CLOSETS

Innovative design company, Creative Closets, ensure that every customer’s design needs are considered when creating the perfect, and personalised, storage solution.

120 October 2011 BTM

With the opening of the second branch in Arad, the self-titled ‘space scientists’ at Creative Closets are proving their success in the Kingdom, and throughout the Middle East. In business for 15 years, the company believes in fully coordinating with the customer’s closet needs, delivering innovative solutions for storage issues.

Squeezing in storage space to an already-full room can prove problematic; further issues are caused when the design of the purchased closet does not complement the rest of the décor. To ensure no such problems occur, Creative Closets works closely with the client and specialises in customisable closets, allowing you to design your dream home for your clothes.

The market leader has four factories and eight showrooms in Saudi Arabia; four showrooms and a factory in the United Arab Emirates, a showroom and a huge factory in India and in Lebanon and a presence in Bahrain, so you won’t have to wait too long to receive your customised closet.

The design side is unique due to the materials used; sandblasted and decorated glass adds a more stylish appearance than you might get from elsewhere. A silent sliding door system has also been developed, which rids you of that teeth-clenching noise other closets can make when opened and shut.

Another technology used is Raumplus, a German-engineered sliding system with excellent craftsmanship. All of these design elements ensure the company is at the top of its game; constantly striving to create new solutions to storage dilemmas.

In fact, the company includes a departmental team for research and development. Constantly working on pioneering ways to improve their existing services, the team also configures how to provide the best value for money, and for space, for their customers.

To ensure they are on the path to designing exactly what the customer wants, they provide each customer with a detailed artist’s impression of what their closet will look like, entirely free of charge. They can also offer a service to assist customers moving house, who want to take their Creative Closet with them.

The company aims to expand further in the coming years, with new branches in Egypt, Qatar and numerous countries in Europe.

With an ethos to maximise space and minimise costs, it’s an ideal solution to get everything you need from a closet.

Creative Closets also offers a money-back guarantee on their closets which lasts up until 30 days after installation, however the company is yet to have met a client who is dissatisfied with their services! E Call 17 610-612.

AJM KOOHEJI GROUP

Designer Furnishing With a complete range of versatile furnishing options, AJM Kooheji provides styles to suit all tastes for any living space.

AJM Kooheji Group is a one-stop solution for a wide majority of retail needs inclusive of a furnishing division to rival all others. The company prides itself on affordable prices and this ethic remains unchanged since the division’s conception in 1973.

Within the expansive showroom, you can browse a whole wealth of singular furniture options to adorn the living room, bedroom and dining room. Additionally, you can opt to entirely renovate a room or, in fact, your entire house with the variety of styles available. You can also add the finishing touches to your living space from a wide assortment of accessories, such as lighting units and ornaments.

There are many classic styles for those who lean towards traditional décor, or alternatively there are plenty of innovative and modern pieces to contemporise any room. AJM Kooheji Group also offers a consultation service for your residence — no matter the size. Interior design can be organised for villas, offices and apartments and there is the further option of custommade furniture to fit a specific space.

You can rest safe in the knowledge that the company will not just do the job, but do a good job. All of the team are professionals with years of hands-on experience within the interior design industry and furniture business and the ultimate goal of the company is to ensure final satisfaction.

The AJM Kooheji Group furniture division is located in Ma’ameer. E Call 17 700-007 or 36 222-274.

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reporthomefurnishing

Estampe bed ROCHE BOBOIS

Mix it Up Your home doesn’t always need to follow a single theme throughout. Let each room speak for itself with unique pieces from Roche Bobois.

Vintage comforts: Les Provinciales ‘Old is gold’ is not just a saying at Roche Bobois. In this line of furniture, they bring back the true art of home décor with vintage designs. The solid beech sculpted and moulded frame sports a waxed antique lacquer and an aged finish. The headrest is in printed linen, inspired from the Argentine artist Haby Bonomo theme — Entrada Al Pueblo. The range comes with a one-drawer nightstand and a three-drawer chest.

Diapo table

Introducing clarity: Roche Bobois The easiest way to make a room look bigger is to introduce glass walls and furniture; add a dash of colour and you’ve given the room a chic touch with minimal effort. With the Diapo table, designed by René Bouchara for the Roche Bobois collection, the home interiors expert does just this.

The base and top are made entirely of thick fused glass and laminated coloured glass; you also have a choice between extra-clear and smoked grey.

Style meets sophistication: Roche Bobois Nothing defines class like the Octova sofa from the original Roche Bobois collection. Upholstered in Tendresse leather, it sports pigmented and corrected grain cowhide. Choose two of your favourite colours from a range of 50 for the perfectly defined two-toned look. The chromed metal legs and the curved frame give the sofa an edge like no other as it gives an ‘off-the-floor’ feel.

E Call 17 582-901 or visit www.roche-bobois.com.

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Octova sofa

THE CLOSETS INTERNATIONAL

Creating Space Working out how to organise all your precious belongings within a limited amount of storage space is often a challenge: it’s time to consult an expert.

One of the great things about our modern lifestyles is that, whenever we encounter what might appear an insurmountable task, there’s always someone on hand to make it look easy. For The Closets International, untangling your ‘mess’ is just the sort of challenge that gets them excited.

“Today’s world is about extracting value,” opines Ali Al Haddad at The Closets International.

“For us that means delivering an optimal solution that maximises your space, whether at home or in the office. We work from the premise that space should allow room for movement.”

The company aims to achieve this objective through cleverly designed closets ideal for creating an uncluttered space. After all, an intelligently designed space can effectively change your life.

The Closets use only the highest quality materials in creating your custom-designed closets and storage. You can choose from a wide selection of top-of-the-range materials, with durable woods like alder, maple, and oak in finish and stain colours or laminated products which are long-lasting and easy to maintain.

“It doesn’t matter if you desire a full walk-in wardrobe or a reach-in closet our specialists will create the storage system that is perfect for you. With a wide variety of colours and finishes including wooden, mirror or glass, you will be spoiled for choice,” adds Ali. “We’ve also got an impressive selection of brands from which you can choose, including the likes of Egger, Shuco, Rehau and Hettich.”

Whatever it is that you want to store, you can be sure that Ali and team have the perfect solution to turn your living or workspace into an environment in which you will feel right at home.

E Call 17 612-610 or www.the-closets.com.

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Kitchen Fever YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Aran Cucine’s stylish new kitchen solutions are available at Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro to offer shoppers the most chic and pioneering designs.

When it comes to top-of-the-line quality and innovative designs of Italian kitchens, Aran Cucine is the brand name that stands out. The company is always looking to outdo itself with creative solutions and original designs by constantly creating masterpieces that are up-to-date with its consumers’ tastes, but without undermining the craftsmanship.

Maintaining a prestigious reputation in the design of kitchens and wardrobes, the brand, established in 1962, currently has a presence in over 120 countries around the world. Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro has joined forces with the company with the famous brand to bring affordable and quality designs into the Bahraini market, at the Aran World showroom.

These innovative kitchens that encompass both practicality and elegance are now available at competitive prices. In creating the kitchens, elements such as technology and research are incorporated into the designs to meet the customers’ modern living needs. The company also provides a wide variety of accessories that range from trendy to traditional. The designs work to optimise spaces into the kitchens so that each model is functional as well as attractive and eye-catching.

Aran’s attention to detail is unprecedented, from the paint to the hinges that make up the design to the drawers and light.

This one-of-a-kind brand also provides built-in appliances and add-on services such as worktops from well-known international brands, ensuring every structural element of your kitchen is cared for and enhanced.

E Call 17 408-111 or visit www.aranworld.it.

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POLIFORM

An Italian Lifestyle Setting the standards for Italian design around the world, Poliform is opening up a new showroom to bring sophisticated contemporary designs closer to your home.

From living rooms, bedrooms, bookcases and kitchens to walk in closets,wardrobes, wall systems, entertainment centres and more, Poliform helps clients create unique home interiors with a sophisticated and modern touch. The renowned Italian company has been in the Bahrain market for over a year and this means that Poliform’s high-end solutions will be more easily available to contemporary style-seekers.

Commitment to quality, the ability to interpret contemporary lifestyle trends and a flair for understanding the needs of its global clientele make Poliform a leader in the furniture design world. Blending superior design and uncompromising functionality, the Varenna collection, for instance, offers personalised kitchen solutions to suit contemporary tastes and styles.

The new showroom, located in Palm Square on the Budaiya Highway, will also offer Antonio Lupi’s exclusive bathrooms, Foscarini lights and rugs from a number of high-end brands and styles. In addition, the company can customize most of its products, which can be made to order in the fabric, wood, size and composition required by the client. This process is facilitated by an in-house design team dedicated to providing clients with comprehensive and customized solutions.

E Call 17 693-538 or 3 6237-262.

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diningthismonth

Leila restaurant

Strictly Mediterranean ELMA BARTHOLOMEW Yet another restaurant has opened its doors amidst the Al A’ali Shopping Complex food block. We walked in to try the true tastes of Lebanon.

Leila is your ticket to the past. It is an abode of memories that takes you through the life of a girl who brought to the city the secret recipes of traditional Lebanese dishes that her grandmother had taught her through her own restaurant. The legend stays alive today, with several branches across Lebanon, Kuwait and, now, Bahrain, each with their own tale to share.

The rustic showpieces on antique shelves and the mellow music in the background all give this venue a feel of home. Its neo-classic ambience is only the beginning of the adventure, though.

The restaurant is proof that the Lebanese fare is more than their flagship preparations — tabbouleh, fattouch, hommos and kebbeh. What differentiates this eatery from the rest is the use of fresh ingredients picked from the mountains back home, which bestows their dishes with a unique aroma and flavour.

Once you’ve dined at Leila, you will soon start comparing every meal to the way things are prepared here.

The true essence of this cuisine lies in the abundant use of garlic, onion, spices and olive oil. While vegetables are often served pickled or cooked, their foods are either grilled, baked or sautéed in olive oil.

Also this month

128 x F&B Happenings - 135 x Listings

Dishes to savour It would be wrong to leave Leila without trying the stuffed eggplant with yoghurt in a bed of rocca. From their extensive range of cold and hot mezze, we recommend the manti, fatteh makdous, chicken osmallieh and the spiced kebbeh. Their special minted lemon acts as a refreshing start and complements your meal.

A highlight of this restaurant is its ‘diet delights’ menu. For the health-conscious foodie, the jabbalieh light is an instant hit. The menu even displays the amount of calories in each item making it easier for weight-watchers to place their order.

“For the main course, guests can choose between the grills and platters or try out our ‘from the oven’ menu,” says Mario Ephrem, restaurant manager. “We have seen a high demand for our lemon garlic beef.”

Our personal favourite, however, is the ghazal Beirut. With a layer of cotton candy over a thick slab of homemade ice-cream and a bit of crushed pistachio sprinkled on it, this is a treat for the sweet-toothed.

A venue that pays attention to the smallest of details, Leila has an added benefit of an entrance from within Al A’ali Shopping Complex. With separate rooms like a traditional Mediterranean home, it will soon sport a library of images and will expand the restaurant to accommodate outdoor dining. Walk right in for a sensational experience.

E Call 17 711-772.

When? October 1-31 Event? Chocolate fantasy Venue? Paul Dark temptations abound at this bakery; don’t delay dig in.

E Call 17 172-321.

When? October 13, 19 Event? Wine nights Venue? Fusions, Gulf Hotel Find out why Sandalford and Villa Girardi will soon be your favourites.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? October 23 Event? Anniversary Venue? La Pergola, Gulf Hotel The Italian restaurant celebrates its 26th year of exquisite dining.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? October 30 Event? Tour de France Venue? Camelot Restaurant Go on a gastronomic tour of northern France with the finest wines.

E Call 39 977-540.

When? October 30 Event? French soirée Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Discover the talent of chef Daniel Mast with his tantalising dishes.

E Call 17 535-000.

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diningf&bhappenings New on the block Visit Camelot on the last Sunday of the month; to discover the tastes of its northern culinary regions.

Meanwhile, Block 338 seems to have taken children into consideration with their new menu.

The dining experience at The Warbler just got better with a new chef who has decided to dedicate the month to lobsters. Yamin Jana, at the Dragon Hotel & Resort, and The Diplomat Radisson Blu, also see new chefs.

Dining at home is now on offer; Aroma Café and Rayés Lebanese Restaurant now provide delivery services.

Must visits that we recommend are the new venues in town — Gusto, for a true taste of Italy; Leila, for authentic Lebanese cuisine; Café Lounge at Al Areen Palace and Spa; and T-Spoon and Saveur lounge at Kempinski Hotel.

Tempting Choices There are reasons, this month, to eat out every day. If food festivals aren’t reason enough, the new venues that have opened its doors will be.

Food festivals Every meal is a celebration this month; here are a few tips on where you should be dining to catch the best of the lot. For those on the hunt for the perfect breakfast, you could visit Aroma Café between 10am and 12pm.

The Gulf Hotel seems to be in a festive mood as each of their dining venues has something special to offer. A Japanese buffet awaits your presence at Sato on October 2. Indulge in the Cantonese special at China Garden from October 3-31 or discover tastes from the three corners of Iran at Takht Jamsheed from October 2-13. Royal Thai restaurant features a ‘chilli lovers’ special from October 15-30; while Margarita Mexicana hosts a promotion for Mexican crab from October 2 and nachos notreñas from October 12.

For those with a sweet-tooth, we bring good news. Paul introduces a month of chocolate fantasy offering tempting cakes and mouth-watering desserts like never before.

bystanderthismonth

Villa OneHundo Welcome Back Party As the masses returned from their summer holidays and life went to normality post-Ramadan, Villa OneHundo in Amwaj threw a welcome back costume party. The theme was Gangsters and Gun Molls, which encouraged a range of fancy dress ideas – everything from 1940s American gangsters to modern 50 Cent inspired get-ups. A big graffiti mural was painted to mark the occasion, and all guests were able to leave a personal message!

Natasha & Jamie

Brandon, Random Tall Guy & Moutaz

Dino & B-Money

Gangsta's in the house!

128 October 2011 BTM

Jessica

Nicola

Nadia & Brandon

Rubee & John Luke

Chris & Ryan

BUSHIDO

Samurai Dining

The teppanyaki room at this venue is an experience that you will enjoy, over and over again.

A word of warning, though — be prepared to be on the other side of the table!

Those who have already been to Bushido will know that you are in for an authentic experience. This is certainly true when you step inside their teppanyaki room, with its knife-wielding chefs! With two large counters that can accommodate 24 guests at the same time, Bushido delivers with both its ambience and its cuisine.

Dining for a samurai For what might appear, at the outset, as a single style of dining, the menu contains an extensive selection of dishes from which to choose. I, though, wanted to embrace the experience so elected for the equally impressive set menu.

To kick-start the meal we began with a sashimi salad; there is something quite refreshing about the way the Japanese present raw seafood. This was followed by a mixed tempura plate, served with a touch of ginger paste and soy sauce on the side, giving the crispy starter a nice little twist with its burst of flavours. Of course, there was also a bowl of miso soup!

For the main course, you can choose from meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes; from wagyu beef to goose liver and Maine lobster to scallops, they’ve got it all. Tell the chefs your preference for sauces and how you would like your meat, then sit back and enjoy the live cooking show. In what seemed no time at all, a whirl of spices and vegetables together with your selected meat and/or fish is neatly placed in front of you as an exquisite finished product. It looked too good to actually eat, but that did not stop us!

The golden rule of dining, needless to say, is that there is always space for dessert. The trio of crème brûlées in vanilla, chocolate and coconut flavours with berry toppings is simply divine; the icing on the cake.

Not for the faint-hearted What about those knife-wielding chefs, or more precisely, sous chef Goh and his assistant Reyni Boy? These two gentlemen enjoy a bit of entertainment and are more than happy to oblige with their ‘routine’ to set the mood for the evening.

What these guys pull out of their holsters and juggle in the air with utmost ease are extremely sharp kitchen knives — and eggs. The fact that their equipment is flying all over the place with only a hot iron table between them and you might not sound like a happy place to be, but the thrill is absolutely worth it.

As they perform it looks perfectly simple; flick an egg into the air, catch it on the spine of the knife so that it sticks, with the egg white slowly dribbling down onto the hot plate. As it does this, write your name before the egg white is cooked.

They invite you try it yourself, with the inevitable result — egg on your face, so to speak! An ideal choice for families, friends and business partners alike, this room is open for lunch from 12-3pm and for dinner from 7-11.30pm (12am on Thursday and Friday). It would be smart to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

E Call 17 583-555.

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diningf&bhappenings CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN HOTEL

Seafood Delights A true epicurean will know better than to miss the unique dining experience offered at the newly reopened Waves Seafood Restaurant.

Sara Gurusamy

SEEF MALL

Transforming Dining A refurbished food court, new outlets and a complement of old favourites add up to a revitalised dining experience at Seef Mall.

130 October 2011 BTM

Gourmands on the island can now rejoice as one of your favourite seafood restaurants is back with a bang. Waves Seafood Restaurant, at Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel, is all set to take your taste buds on a journey through special recipes from around the globe.

While executive chef Sara Gurusamy flaunts an exotic array of signature dishes that are highly influenced by his South-East Asian roots, chef de cuisine Maroun Hachem brings a touch of home to the kitchen with authentic Arabian flavours.

With interiors that make you feel like you are dining underwater, this restaurant tries to keep it as real as possible.

Walk over to their display of the freshest catch and pick what you’d like to go into your meal and how you’d like it cooked.

Boasting a full array of anything from clams, mussels and calamari to lobsters, shrimps, crabs and various kinds of fish, you will be spoilt for choice.

If you think this is the most intriguing bit of dining here, the new menu will undoubtedly surprise you — from the cold and hot appetisers, to the delicious soups and the innovative main course.

The perfect meal For those who choose the à la carte menu, we suggest you begin your Waves experience with their seafood dumplings, complemented with sweet chilli sauce, which is a guaranteed winner. Their version of a salmon appetiser is simply divine and a must-have for those who enjoy raw fish; those who don’t can opt for the crunchy shrimp and squid tempura. The chef’s special laksa soup will soon become your favourite. As a final tip, we assure you that you cannot go wrong with anything that comes in a shell. E Call 17 531-122.

There are many reasons why we choose to visit a shopping mall; dining is certainly one of the attractions that draw us into a particular venue. Over the past year or so, Seef Mall has sought to expand its range of dining options beyond the quick service restaurant. While the focal point of food and beverage options will always be the two food courts located at either end of the mall, the infusion of casual dining venues has been a welcome bonus for those visiting the mall.

The Japanese-themed Frangipani restaurant, on the ground floor close to fashion outlets such as Mango and Zara, offers a range of dishes that also include Thai cuisine. Whether you want to be entertained by the knife routines of the teppanyaki chefs or enjoy a pineapple rice dish, you will not be disappointed.

Three new restaurants have taken up residence at People’s Plaza, on the first floor; you can select from the Italian Mia Mia outlet, serving up some of the best pizzas in town, the Chineseinspired Ching or the Indian Papadom restaurants. Alternatively, indulge in the cake shop next to Ching.

Then there’s the Brasa de Brazil, Isfahani, Rice Bowl and Maya Le Chocolaterie venues on the first floor of the new extension.

Cafés also abound, with the likes of Costa, Starbucks and La Maison Du Café. Another recent addition to dining options has been the Indian and Pakistani Barbeque Delights restaurant.

The choices, though, will be further enhanced with new brands in the coming months. These include The Yellow Chilli, Pinkberry and an organic-inspired restaurant in the new wing. It’s not just the interior ambience at Seef Mall that is receiving a makeover!

E Call 17 582-888 or www.facebook.com/seefmallbahrain.

Friends Trio

MÖVENPICK HOTEL

The Grills are Back!

As the weather gradually cools down, outdoor dining seems to be a brilliant choice.

Find out what special events this hotel has lined up for October, and ahead.

Does anybody else smell smoke? We sure do and it’s no coincidence that our mouths are watering as well. Yours would too if you decide to spend a Sunday evening at Mövenpick Hotel by the pool. The Barbeque Delights theme night is back by popular demand; this time its here to stay. It’s not only the aroma that’s splendid; overlooking the lagoon is a pleasant sight giving the diner a mystical experience.

“We have chosen to merge different kinds of barbeques from around the world. With the unique ambience and amazing food, we hope to give our guests an evening to remember, one they’d love to come back to week after week,” says Francesco Agus, food and beverage manager.

There will be five stations for each style — American, Arabic, Churrasco, Indonesian and seafood.

You’ll have a wide selection of grills, burgers, hotdogs and even fish preparations. Serving nothing short of premium quality meat, the highlight of the night will be the Brazilian Churrasco grills that will be brought to your table on skewers from which the waiters will carve out slices onto your plate.

If you aren’t in the mood to wait for food to come to your plate, feel free to fetch what you please from their impressive buffet spread. You could also get your meal prepared the way you’d prefer it at the live cooking stations. The array of desserts, as the hotel’s patrons may already know, never disappoints. Relish their delectable crepes or simply dig into a bowl of ice-cream for the perfect end to a perfect meal. Get all this and unlimited rounds of caipirinha at BD16.6++, every Sunday from 7-11pm; enjoy the night away with flavoured shisha.

When she sings Meanwhile, Friends, their resident European band, promise to keep you entertained with great music performed live. This trio debuted on the island just a month ago, bringing a wind of change to the music scene in Flamingo bar.

While Ivan jams away on his guitar and Kristy plays the piano, Yana rules the stage with her powerful voice and soulful tunes on the flute. Singing anything from classics to latest hits, they rock the stage from 8.30pm-2am every day, except Saturdays.

Unwind in Style The recently launched Flamingo lounge has turned into one of the most comfortable yet stylish venues to just lay back and relax. Located next to the pool, and sharing theme nights of the popular bar, this poolside terrace has a funky touch to it.

With a large screen that show everything from live concerts, important matches and music videos and a surround sound system for that extra punch; there is no reason not to chill here and check out their new cocktail menu.

It is Ladies’ Night every Tuesday where women get selected cocktails for free from 7-9pm. There’s one more reason to head to Mövenpick Hotel on a Saturday; it’s Guinness Night; buy one and get another free. You are also entitled to a 20 per cent discount on your order from 2pm-9pm at the lounge.

E Call 17 460-000.

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diningf&bhappenings CAMELOT RESTAURANT

Great Taste

Fine dining doesn’t come in a more elegant and unique ambience than at the mini-castle tucked within Adliya.

Camelot has a lot lined up for the gourmands of Bahrain.

When? October 22 | Event? Cooking lesson Venue? Camelot Restaurant

This month, Camelot will get you browsing their new menu with so much to choose from.

Don’t worry; they haven’t pulled away your favourites. While the chateaubriand stays back with the Camelot special Caesar salad and chicken breast, there’s a lot more that chef Bertrand has to offer to Bahrain’s epicureans.

Now you can indulge in the newly-added mushroom or onion quiche or share a cheese fondue.

Their impressive tapas menu include a variety of must-haves such as the Portobello mushroom or the new trio du salmon.

Apparently, someone who enjoys seafood is known to have good taste. And you’ll know why they say so once you’ve tried their mussels and scallops. New to the menu is the popular mouthwatering preparation of escargots. Wind up your dining experience with the special rum baba or try one of their popular home-made icecream or sorbets. Join the chef in the kitchen as he unlocks the mysteries of professional cooking on October 22. Enjoy learning tricks, techniques and tips that will give your culinary expertise a boost.

If you’re in the mood for some classy tunes, catch Jojo work his magical fingers on the piano from 7.30-10.30pm every Wednesday and Thursday. With the weather slightly picking up, you could choose to climb their winding staircase anddine al fresco on their beautiful rooftop terrace.

Something for everyday Every last Sunday of the month, Camelot takes you on a gastronomical tour of France’s renowned wine and culinary regions. On October 30, you can discover the specialties of northern France with a taste of Alsace.

You are bound to be impressed by the all-day breakfast served every Friday and Saturday with a full English breakfast, fluffy pancakes, home-made marmalade and jams. Also, it should come as great news that they have chosen to serve endless rounds of mussels and fries at BD14 or BD22 (inclusive of beer or wine) every Monday. Get to know your drink better at BD10 every Tuesday at The Grape Escape wine tasting complemented with an exotic choice of cheeses. Meanwhile, ladies can enjoy a second martini or champagne cocktail on the house every Wednesday from 6pm to midnight. E Call 17 717-745 or 39 977-540.

DÉJÀ VU

A Delightful Fusion Learn about the newest additions to Adliya’s dining scene, Déjà Vu, which infuses eclectic Mediterranean cuisines with creative influences from Greece and Italy.

Using the freshest ingredients and inspired by the colourful and multicultural heritage of the Mediterranean, the chefs here have put together an extensive and creative menu for this one-of-a-kind restaurant that offers more than just gastronomic delights. With its plush interiors and intricate designs, Déjà Vu is a place that promises a more personal experience where each visit feels unique.

For the ‘too busy for lunch’ crowd, they have devised a special menu that doesn’t burn a hole in your wallet and makes lunching out every day an event to look forward to. Additionally, every Sunday through Tuesday, from 7pm to 9pm, they spice up your dinner with a complimentary glass of house wine. We suggest you try the daily chef’s specials to find out what the buzz is about.

Lay back and relax Head upstairs and find a cosy lounge that boasts a full bar including a unique list of specialty martinis and wines. With happy hours from 7pm to 9pm daily where you can save 30 per cent on your order, Déjà Vu lounge is the place to be.

Unwind to the beats of the resident DJ while he mixes the best from R&B to house. Hosting a different theme night every night, Tuesday is ladies’ night promising unlimited drinks for the women in the house and a dinner voucher giveaway for the best-dressed lady. Wild Wednesdays comes with an entry fee of BD12 for gents and BD5 for ladies, that entitles you to a 15 per cent discount on their popular tapas menu.

You can even book the entire lounge for private functions allowing a maximum capacity of 80 people with special packages for a successful event. E Call 13 657-770.

132 October 2011 BTM

TIAN RESTAURANT

Inspired by Asia An aspiring ambience coupled with a menu full of dishes that reflect the variety of Asian cuisine results in a stand-out restaurant.

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Fusion of Flavours This hotel is known for its excellent cuisine; it is time to meet the new man behind the kitchen team.

A proficient personality with a blend of culinary expertise and management skills coupled with a background of awardwinning menu preparations, Roland Gössler, the new executive chef at Ramada Hotel Bahrain boasts extensive experience in food inventory, planning and procurement.

A master of cuisines from Asia and the Middle East, Roland sports a love for the food from his hometown in Austria.

Influenced by European cookery, he insists on using the finest ingredients, which are often cooked in the simplest of methods.

The freshness and variety in the flavours and spices promises a dining experience like no other. Creating marvels in the kitchen since 1988, he has worked with international hotel chains and convention centres, private clubs and resorts, and for royal families and other crème de la crème of the society.

‘Vibrancy’ and ‘elegance’ are two words often associated with this new exciting restaurant in Adliya. Defined by sleek architecture, sculpted décor and a healthy dose of exemplary Asian-inspired design elements, Tian poses as a perfect venue for a relaxed evening with friends or colleagues. Bringing the best in Asian cuisine is the new menu introduced by their talented head chef Riyono Katimin.

Trained in London to create signature dishes that will tantalise your taste buds, his original recipes have an exhilarating fusion of Asian spices.

Do not leave the restaurant without having sampled the restaurant’s mouth-watering dishes such as wasabi prawns, crispy spicy duck rolls and the Tian special kung po chicken.

We particularly liked the succulent, stir-fried US Angus beef with black pepper sauce.

For an exotic drink, pop upstairs to their chic lounge that offers an intriguing range of signature cocktails.

Dishes to remember Tian offers a Friday brunch with a difference where you can enjoy a full-course meal with selected beverages from noon till 4pm for BD15++. If a brunch just won’t do, indulge in their degustation menu that offers a four-course meal for BD12++.

Open daily for lunch from noon to 3pm and for dinner from 7-11pm, this is one Asian restaurant where you can expect to experience the taste of Asia.

E Call 17 717-080 or email hand@batelco.com.bh.

The chef’s special You cannot dine at this chef’s restaurant without trying his wild garlic hollandaise sauce; he recalls the tale behind its creation.

“While cycling around Ireland on an off day, I caught a distinct aroma which I followed to discover an abundance of fresh wild garlic in the woods. This has since resulted in a sauce which food lovers have cherished everywhere I’ve presented it,” he says.

When cooking with a sense of adventure, his choice is a Japanese speciality made with veal tenderloin, fermented soya beans paste and green tea marinated overnight to infuse the flavour of the meat and to tenderise its texture. Evidently, his menus are innovative and have a delicious fusion of many cuisines that will tempt any palate.

E Call 17 742-000.

BTM October 2011 133

afterdarkthemenights thursday

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? 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? 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? Steak Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Stick a fork in juicy Angus steaks and scrumptious salads.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Dinner Buffet Venue? It’s Mirchi, Ramee International Try the Mirchi platter with the most succulent kababs.

E Call 38 381-615.

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? 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? 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? 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? Couples night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant Tucked within Budaiya, this venue is bound to impress.

E Call 17 593-593.

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? All Day Breakfast Venue? Camelot Try the pancakes if you loved the full English yesterday.

E Call 17 717-745.

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.

Theme? Saturday Brunch Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant Overslept on Friday? Worry not.

Try the brunch here.

E Call 17 716-999.

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.

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? Italian Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant A true foodie can’t have enough pasta; especially from here.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Barbeque Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand A live BBQ counter boasts meat and seafood done to perfection.

E Call 17 584-400.

134 October 2011 BTM

friday

Theme? All Day Breakfast Venue? Camelot Eggs made the way you love them; home-made waffles and more.

E Call 17 717-745.

saturday

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 October 011 135

bystanderthismonth

InterContinental Regency Bahrain Five Course Dinner The InterContinental Regency Bahrain hosted a dinner for a number of guests to sample the new five course 'Legendary Degustation' menu at the hotel's Legendz SteakHouse. The five course dinner with beverages is only BD 21 per head

James McDonald, Abdul Majeed & Cyril Mouawad

Abdul, Soman, Cyril, James & Unni Krishnan

Diana, Elma, Cyril & Karina

Wasim

Lynn, George & Diana

Tony & Diana

Bahraini-French Business Club Dinner The Bahraini-French Business Club held a business dinner for members & guests at the Mo Kan Fusion Restaurant, K Hotel, Juffair, The guest speaker at the event was HE Esam bin Abdulla Al Khalaf, Minister of Works, who spoke on 'Kingdom of Bahrain Future Road Network Projects'

Marco, Paola & Tareq

Waleed Sharif, Sharifa, Abdulla Juma, HE Esam bin Abdulla Al Khalaf, Khalid Kanoo & Neman Abdulla

Shirley & Shandra

Joshua, Lani, Michel, Mina, George & Jean-Paul

Shawki, Ahmed, Mohammed, Nasser & Nabeel

Jean-Mark, Ashraf & Janan

136 October 2011 BTM

Dr Dhafer Alumran

Cyrus & Bangera

Anna, Greg & Adnan

Mr & Mrs Karim

Jalil

Ahmed

afterdarkthismonth

Faisal Kanoo

Pugilistic Attraction DAVID M. ROBERTSON A unique concept adorns a new venue that opened its doors last month, lovingly created by the owner of The K Hotel — there’s little point fighting over it!

The Champions Lounge at The K Hotel, in Juffair, lives up to its name in every sense — the walls of the venue display an impressive array of winner’s belts from, primarily, the world of wrestling. One is tempted to ask Faisal Kanoo, the owner of the hotel and belts, if the collection represents a misspent youth! While Faisal admits his fondness for the pugilistic artists ‘developed’ while studying in the United States; the collection has been built up over an 18-year period.

“Many of these belts are extremely rare,” he says. “It is probably one of the largest private collections in the world of such items.”

Intrigued as to how one can acquire such championship belts, Faisal advises that, at every championship fight, two belts are made; one for the holder to retain and the other for the challenger, if victorious. When a fighter retains his title, the second belt finds its way into the collectors’ market.

Alongside the belts, including UFC ones, are signed boxing gloves from heavyweight champions. If you are inspired by the sight of these ‘trophies’, the lounge also includes punching bags for you to create your action! Faisal, however, is quick to establish that he has never been tempted to become a wrestler; instead, he confines his sporting prowess to the weight room in the gym.

Also this month

138 x Happenings x 148 Venue listing

Clear lines The venue itself could be described as minimalism with colours; bright and cheerful. It’s a reflection of the vision shown by the owner in pursuing an objective in a clear and understated manner. Two other aspects of Champions stand out — it is a non-smoking lounge and there is no live band.

Faisal is banking on attracting a market that likes to unwind in a venue that pollutes neither the air nor your ears; it’s an attractive proposition that is likely to resonate.

Alongside the drinks, the food and beverage team at the hotel have created an innovative fusion of light snacks to contain any hunger pangs.

Sports action Big TV screens offer the opportunity to watch live action; if you prefer a more active engagement, then the lounge sports two pool tables and two darts boards.

“The pool tables are run on the same basis as elsewhere in the world. There is no charge for playing; you simply write down your name and play the current ‘champion’ at the table,” notes Faisal.

“We will also be organising a darts tournament, which we expect to commence during October.”

It does not take much imagination to figure out how the championship winner might be crowned — with a dart belt, of course!

When? October 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26 Event? DJ nights Venue? Cocoon The party never stops at this lounge with ladies’ nights and Ibiza’s beats.

E Call 36 131-020.

When? October 6 Event? Theme party Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Prepare to head back in time because they’re talking ‘black and white’ people.

E Call 36 131-020.

When? October 6 Event? Tribute act Venue? The Warbler, Ramee Baisan International It’s time to go gaga — yes, it’s a Lady Gaga tribute.

E Call 38 868-976.

When? October 7 Event? Tribute act Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Missed it yesterday; no worries.

Catch the sparkling show here.

E Call 33 731-000.

When? October 10 Event? Karaoke night Venue? JJ’s Irish Sing for a cause as JJ’s supports the Think Pink campaign.

E Call 39 329-083.

continued on page 138

BTM October 2011 137

afterdarkhappenings

Chug! Chug! Chug!

When? October 13, 27 Event? DJ nights Venue? Bushido Meet Paris’ godfathers of mixing — DJ RLP and DJ Carlos Campos.

E Call 17 583-555.

When? October 20 Event? Acoustic session Venue? JJ’s Irish Believe it or not; he’s here in town — featuring Joe Driscoll!

E Call 39 329-083.

When? October 24 Event? Whisky tasting Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel Know your drink before you sip it.

The night entails dinner at Fusions.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? October 28 Event? Beach party Venue? The Dragon Hotel & Resort No time to holiday? Worry not.

Ibiza is coming to you.

E Call 36 969-168.

Beach party

October only means two things for party-goers — Oktoberfest and Halloween. Bahrain This Month lets you where to be seen and what you shouldn’t miss.

Beer-tastic!

Including a luxurious buffet, offering European and international specialties, barbecues and an incredible array of Bavarian beers, Oktoberfest at the Gulf Hotel will be a lively evening orchestrated by the famous Lasterbacher Musikanten band coming directly from Western Germany. October 6-7 marks a weekend of good music and endless rounds of beer.

The Warbler adds a culinary touch to their celebrations from October 28-30 with German cuisine on the menu. The special drink package starts from 9pm at BD12 at this outlet that will be completely decorated in polystyrene sheets.

New in town Al Safir Hotel has reopened the lounge after renovation. It now boasts separate smoking and non-smoking areas. But what we have our eye on this month is the new pool bar at Pars International.

Take a break from your dip in the pool or the Jacuzzi with their new bar on the second floor. The setting makes it the ultimate venue for relaxation. Watch your favourite sports on the large screens or play a game of billiards or darts. Enjoy happy hours from 7-10pm every night. Open from 11am-1am daily, this vast area can be booked for private parties as well.

bystanderthismonth

Block 338 DJ Nights Block 338 restaurant in Adliya played host to two well-known DJ's over two consecutive nights during the Eid holidays. The first night featured DJ Jackson from Bahrain and the second night featured BJ Javi Negrete from Ibiza

DJs Ibbi & Nabil

Tam, Shazaz, Hattie & Allen

138 October 2011 BTM

Angie DJ Jackson

DJ Javi

Alex & Abz

Adel & Hussain

Sabrina & Victor

DJ Xavier

Casey, Khatoon, Ahmed & Ines

VJ MP3 & Naji

April

Abdulla, Yousif, Abdulla, Hussain & Hamza

Donna Marie - Lady Gaga tribute

A tribute to good music It’s time to ‘just dance’ your night away because you’ve got Donna Maries’ Lady Gaga tribute performance hitting the clubs of Bahrain. The tour begins with a breathtaking show in The Warbler on October 6. Club Buffalo at Ramee California will be graced by her spectacular act on October 7. Her tribute raises the benchmark for all other acts.

The show is a visually stunning and dramatic theatrical performance that recreates all of the drama, glitz and glamour of Lady Gaga’s most memorable performances.

Meat Loaf seems to be getting a lot of attention in Bahrain. While Corners pub at the Dragon Hotel & Resort welcomes Pure Meat Loaf on October 27 with killer tracks to set the mood for Halloween, they see competition in the Pete Loaf who will perform on the same day at Kicks in Hotel Diva. Champs in Best Western will be the second part of Pete Loaf’s Bahrain tour on October 28.

Prepare for a haunting night at JJ’s Irish with Ben, a tribute to the king of pop, as there’s just no better thing that screams horror as MJ’s Thriller. The next best thing to the real thing, his wealth of experience has got him recognised as the only true Michael Jackson tribute show.

Always guaranteeing a mesmerising show and never disappointing, this Irish haunt will leave you amazed on October 31; the magic begins at 9pm. Be at your creative best as your costume may win you a prize. This is it people — the Halloween night to remember.

Ben – MJ Tribute

Pure Meat Loaf

BTM October 2011 139

afterdarkhappenings

Riviera

TRADER VIC’S

Sounds from Home Having carved out a niche for itself, Trader Vic’s introduces the true rhythms of Cuba with their resident band — Riviera.

140 October 2011 BTM

Translating to ‘by the waters’, Riviera seems to be the perfect name for a group of extremely talented musicians who work their wonders in Trader Vic’s — a unique venue nestled by a lagoon.

This six-member band steals the crowd’s attention with the Latino numbers that they perform with such elegance and perfection.

Sending out a vibrant energy with each set, they play anything from merengue and salsa to bachata and, of course, cumbia.

With Latino music, it is almost always about romance and their performance spreads a positive vibe among the guests.

“There is a quality of mysticism to Bahrain that keeps you coming back and makes you never want to leave. I’ve been here for over a decade, and I haven’t stopped being amazed by it,” says Johnny, band leader and guitarist. “Sometimes it’s the people more than the place that attracts me. Most importantly, they have a good understanding of music and are aware of several genres; it’s quite impressive.”

Trader Vic’s is not only a place to pamper your taste buds; with Riviera in its midst, it’s also a place to treat your ears to some groovy beats. Don’t be surprised by the number of fans they have; patrons will mingle with these artists like they’ve known them forever.

“Everytime we play, we find people involved in the music.

Before you know it, we’ve blended into the crowd,” says Johnito, vocalist and conguero, who also happens to be Johnny’s son. “What we enjoy most is how we are able to contribute to their happiness.”

There is an abundance of Latin-American bands in the Kingdom; this band, though, easily stands out owing to the traditional songs that they play, as well as the latest tracks. It actually feels like they’ve brought a bit of home to the Middle East. Also, each set is a different style moving from purely instrumental tracks to the rumba.

“We have the advantage of experience. The real trick is to know what the people want, what they like to hear,” Johnny states. “We try to be different and better with each day. I doubt anyone can walk in and say they’ve heard a particular set before.”

Well, there’s just no other way to find out other than actually going there and catching them live in action. And we assure you, the trip will be well worth it.

Making it an even better idea is the introduction of the weekly special menu that features exotic preparations like you’ve never imagined, including a selection of desserts.

Welcome back!

You are going to love to hear the return of Mai Tai lounge; the freshly spruced-up venue is all prepped up to welcome you into their island of legendary tropical drinks. To remind yourself of what you might have missed, try their signature kahona; a cocktail that takes you straight to the tropics. But if this doesn’t float your boat, the tiki puka puka is a perfect alternative.

E Call 17 586-555.

When? October 27 Event? Halloween party Venue? The Warbler, Ramee Baisan The scarier the better; walk through cobwebs if you will.

E Call 38 868-976.

When? October 27 Event? Tribute act Venue? Corners, The Dragon Hotel & Resort Back out of hell, they introduce Pure Meat Loaf with their best tracks.

E Call 36 457-208.

When? October 27 Event? Tribute act Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Yet another Meat Loaf dedication — enter Pete Loaf!

E Call 17 810-555.

When? October 28 Event? Halloween party Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California The theme ‘Hell raiser’ sort of speaks for itself. Are you prepared?

E Call 36 131-020.

When? October 29-31 Event? Halloween party Venue? Boomers, Pars International Walk into a terrifying night of nonstop music and entertainment.

E Call 17 814-777. continued on page 143

DJ Nakadia

International DJ nights This October, Bushido has lined up two DJs to show Bahrain what partying really is all about. Considered as the pioneer of deejaying and house music in France, you can find RLP spinning the decks at the best clubs in Paris. With his incredible technique and control of the dance floor, this DJ is to appear at Bushido lounge on October 13.

French DJ Carlos Campos plays in the best party venues around the world, mixing electro, dance hits, acoustic, house, lounge and, of course, the best Latino grooves. Famous for his Ritmo de la noche, this popular mix artist will work his magic in Bushido’s lounge on October 27.

Cocoon lounge makes sure you’re out every other night with DJs from around the globe — Nakadia, Jakki Degg, Nicc Johnson, Inaki Santos, Mr Doris and Billy McGaley. They’ve got the venue flooding with party owls.

Speaking of DJs, The Warbler introduces new resident DJ Kiwi from the Philippines. Performing every night from 9pm, he plays party tracks, R&B, hip-hop and club music.

New bands There are quite a few new resident bands that have surfaced after Eid. Section One band in Harvesters Pub at Crowne Plaza and The Coconuts band at Fiddlers Green in The Diplomat Radisson Blu have got people pouring in night after night. The Warbler has got a fresh young band from the UK called Red. The British septet plays dance, pop, R&B, rock and party classics.

A new band called Rampage has been introduced at An Nada Bar, the lounge at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel. The band comprises of seven members from the Philippines who play international, pop, jazz and rock music.

Enigma

bystanderthismonth

Beatles Tribute At Kick's Outlet Fans of the Beatles had plenty of reason to celebrate when the UK’s number one Beatles tribute band, the Fab Beatles, performed at the Kicks outlet.

The performance, officially launched the outlet, at Hotel Diva in Juffair

The Fab Beatles

John, Paul & John

Dr Anup, Dr Kiran, Dr Dean, Jahangir, Perin & Dr Rita

Fouzia, Kiran & Judy

Amitabh & Bahar

Kaye & Janet

Lucian, Marina & Hesham

Colin, Kate & Margot

Phil, Brendan & Matt

Jean & Cornel

DJ Crazy Craig

BTM October 2011 141

JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT

Defying Genres Bahrain This Month was fortunate enough to catch a quick word with Joe Driscoll about his acoustic session at JJ’s Irish Restaurant on October 20.

BTM: What is it about your music that makes it ‘blast through stereotypes’ as people suggest?

JD: I’d say the most intriguing things people need to know about my show is that it is based around live looping technology; so although I am just one man onstage, I’m able to create the sounds of a full band by chopping live samples of my own beatboxing and multiinstrumental performances.

My music completely defies genre, incorporating everything from folk and blues to reggae and hip hop. There is no simple tag line or stereotype it fits into, and it tends to catch people by surprise.

BTM: Who inspires you in respect to style, lyrics and performance?

JD: I’ve really been influenced by the works of legends such as Bob Marley, Bob Dylan and John Lennon. At the same time, I was massively into hip hop groups like ‘De La Soul’ and ‘A Tribe Called Quest’. I want to incorporate the good time party vibe of classic hip-hop, while maintaining the quality songwriting and positive vibes of those legendary songwriters.

BTM: Fans say you are a true Renaissance man and that your music is ‘real’. Why so?

JD: According to me, music is a great communicator. The real thing I try to illustrate through my lyrics and music is that all music, and indeed all humans, are just different branches of one tree. I try to bring attention to the one common root of all our experiences to illustrate that the whole of the world shares more in common than they realise.

BTM: What message do you have to convey to your new audience that awaits you?

JD: This is not only my first appearance in Bahrain, but also in the Middle East. I have heard the legends of Middle Eastern hospitality and I am really excited to get to Bahrain and experience a new land. I hope the Bahrain crowd is half as keyed up to see me as I am to play for them. The nomadic song-smith is coming to town, and I promise it will be an exciting show.

Tickets will be available on the door and in advance from Coral Bay, Camelot Restaurant and JJ’s Irish Restaurant at BD5. Doors open from 8pm; the show starts at 10pm. E Call 39 329-083.

bystanderthismonth

DJ Said Mrad At Bushido One of the best known DJs in the Middle East, Said Mrad manned the decks at Bushido Restaurant in Seef district last month. The event also featured Bushido's resident DJ Dara Singh DJs Said Mrad & Dara Singh

Rosio, Alessandra & Warren

Karen, Talin & Zaid

Carlos, Maya & Alberto

Julia, Carolina & Lola

Nikki & Khatija

Sawsan & Roni

Wael & Lara

Diana & Maria

142 October 2011 BTM

Paula

Samia

DJ Said Mrad

Hamman, Assem & Alia

Maria

When? October 29-31 Event? Halloween party Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International Sabor Latino brings a Columbian touch to the festival.

E Call 17 814-777.

When? October 31 Event? Halloween party Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California It’s the end of the world; there’s no better place to celebrate it.

E Call 33 731-000.

When? October 31 Event? Halloween party Venue? Cocoon Lounge There’s just never enough candy.

Let the ‘ghoul’ times roll.

E Call 17 827-600.

When? October 31 Event? Karaoke night Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Sport ‘the scare factor’ with a costume that can win you prizes.

E Call 17 810-555.

When? October 31 Event? Tribute act Venue? JJ’s Irish Nothing defines horror like the Thriller — MJ is back!

E Call 39 329-083.

Trick or treat It’d be odd to be dressed casually on this weekend. Men, bring out the rags and ladies, throw on the most drastic shades of make-up because horrendous is the look we’re trying to achieve for the parties on this weekend.

The Warbler demands you to come in the scariest costume on October 27 to fit in with the crowd. You never know, you might even win a prize for it.

Bedrock hosts the ‘Hell raiser’ on October 27. With fossils lying around, this theme isn’t so hard to pull off at this venue.

Dress for the occasion and you’re in for a horrifying night.

Pars International has chosen to celebrate three days of

Halloween from October 29-31. While Simple Notes at Boomers will pump up the music each night, Sabor Latino at Latin Quarter will show Bahrain a great party with their one-of-a-kind music with the help of in-house DJ Arvin by the turntable.

Club Buffalo has taken a new angle to Halloween, having themed it around the apocalypse. Be prepared for the end of the world on October 31. Resident band Deluxe and DJ Johnny Bailo will make sure you’ll be dancing like it’s the last dance of your life.

Cocoon Lounge asks you to vamp it up and make no bones about it. October 31 is going to be one spook-tacular night.

BTM October 2011 143

afterdarkhappenings PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Do the Tango The music never stops at Pars International; with the new faces at Latin Quarter and a revamped band at Boomers, it never will.

Put your dance shoes on; the beat just picked up at Latin Quarter, your go-to place for anything Hispanic, with Sabor Latino. The Columbian quartet brings the best of merengue, salsa, bachata and more to this one-of-a-kind venue.

“It is amazing to find the Middle Eastern crowd enjoy the South American style of music and cuisine,” says Carlos, band leader. “They are always keen on learning new dance styles.”

This bar-restaurant boasts a unique energy owing to the festive mood that they create. The Latin-American community of Bahrain love to unwind here, for that feeling of home with the scrumptious authentic recipes and the tunes from their hometown.

It’s all about fun at this entertaining venue. Keeping the buzz alive is resident DJ Arvin mixing the latest Latino hits with old favourites.

Sabor Latino

Going ka-boom!

A bustling venue any night of the week, Boomers has upped their game with the interesting mix of talents that form the resident band, Simple Notes. Once you’ve stepped into this jampacked venue, you are guaranteed to switch into party mode almost instantly.

With the live entertainment that they showcase, it is no surprise. Performing all kinds of genres from pop and rock to R&B and Latino, they’ve got several tricks in their bag; you’ll be tempted to watch them everyday. E Call 17 814-777.

Simple Notes

bystanderthismonth

Club Mynt Launch The Pars International in Juffair held a grand opening party to mark the launch of its latest hotspot for partyholics called Club Mynt, with well known German progressive house and trance DJ Sabrina Terence behind the decks Uday, Elena & Alexa

Priyanka, Khaled, Sidd & Rajiv

DJs Sabrina & Ibbi

Charlie, Elma, Chris & Vijith

Fionna, Nikila, Jo, Neetu & Nidia

Zain & Hamed

Mohammed, Danny & Amed

Milina & Marina

Faisal, Ashish & Siddiq

144 October 2011 BTM

Rajiv, Anju, Mili & Ketan

Jassim, Reem, Riddhi & Shebby

Binoy, Rajiv & Alvin

RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Dublin Club at the Ramee Palace Hotel in Juffair has undergone massive changes over the last couple of months. A second bar area now provides an alternative from the hustle and bustle of the main bar area. Ample seating, two pool tables and four LCD TVs showing all the biggest games ensure that the entertainment doesn’t begin and end with the live band.

The showstopper, however, at this venue is the beer pong tables.

A venue where the festivities never stop, Dublin is known as a party hub on the island. This month is no different; if nothing else, it is better!

Music takes control The new resident band, EvolveR, has taken Bahrain by storm. Arriving from an extended gig in Dubai, the seven-piece band, with members from Canada, the US, the UK and Indonesia play anything from Adele to Akon, Santana to Shakira, and Bob Marley to Bryan Adams.

With past engagements in all corners of the globe, this experienced group of musicians are lead by ever-energetic Janelle. Come down and check them out for yourself from Monday to Saturday from 9pm.

Evolving Venue

More fun Dublin Live Lounge takes place every Saturday, where budding performers can join the band on stage and attempt to impress the crowd. A tradition since November 2009, five resident bands have now been serenaded by Dublin regulars. Singers, guitarists, drummers and more are all welcome to rock the night away.

October 31 marks Dark Knight at this club. It’s a Halloween spooktacular, spine tingling evening with a chilling performance by the resident band and DJ Bass. Be there or run the risk of being haunted by all the fun you have missed out on!!

EvolveR

E Call 39 736-547.

bystanderthismonth

Rocky's Cafe Nights Rocky's Cafe, formerly Rock Bottom Cafe, at the Ramee International Hotel in Juffair, held a party to launch the newly named cafe over the Eid weekend

Eric, Chhaya, Sara & Mike

Chhaya, Mukerjee & Sara

Glen, Mario & Jay

Reg & Gemma The new band at Rocky's Cafe

Cora & Mike

Victoria & Stephen

Adam & Austin

Linda & Dana

Ravi

Ravi with band members

BTM October 2011 145

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE CALIFORNIA HOTEL

Party Rockers One of the key reasons Club Buffalo is a favourite among Bahrain’s cluboholics is its pumped-up music. Find out more about the new kid on the block.

When? October 7 | Event? Lady Gaga tribute | Venue? Club Buffalo

Deluxe

Having recently turned one, this Wild West-themed barrestaurant has always been big on ensuring their music scene sets a benchmark, often a bit high, for other nightlife venues on the island. This time, they have unleashed an all-American band to get the party people to go wild.

A high-power septet, Deluxe has years of experience performing in Far-East Asian cities like Shanghai, Bangkok and Hong Kong among many others. There are three things that keep this band on top — their individualism, unity and persona.

Performing four sets a night from 9pm, this energetic team have included country and rock in their extensive repertoire of high-energy dance hits to suit the venue. Bahrain is known to be a demanding audience; they face this challenge with the strength of variety.

“This is our first trip to the Middle East and, surprisingly, it feels just like home,” says Patrick Chavez, lead guitarist and band leader. “Bahrain has truly exceeded our expectations. The music scene is quite impressive. Most of all, we love the people here; they’re so welcoming and friendly.”

Stealing the show, however, is lead vocalist, Lilonnie Price, with her stunning looks and strong yet refined voice. Their best style is the fast, pumped-up tracks; you’ll never want to leave the dance floor. Resident DJ Johnny Bailo is one mix-master that will make sure it stays that way.

An abode of non-stop entertainment from the moment you step in, Club Buffalo has a treat for you. The Lady Gaga tribute is coming to town. Save the date, partygoers — October 7; this is a bash you mustn’t miss. E Call 39 688-207.

bystanderthismonth

Mei & Yu Official Opening Mei N Yu, a new restaurant serving a range of international cuisine, at the Lagoon, Amwaj Islands held a reception to mark the official opening of the restaurant

Meher, George, Nadeem, Hamid & Monica

Maeve, Karim, Faisal & Maeve

Ghazali & Bina

Bernard, Michel, George & Steve

Lakshman, Anil & David

Vanessa, Karina & Preeti

Hanieh, Fiona & Ebrahim

Boman & Lalit

146 October 2011 BTM

Nadeem & Saad

Aslam & Saleem

Adnan & Faye

Alison & James

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? Hoteliers’ Night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel This is a night dedicated to the hotel and services industry.

E Call 33 477-088.

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? Filipino Night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel ‘Barkada’ is a celebration of good food and drinks.

E Call 33 477-088.

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? The K-Factor Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Join them for Karaoke night; ladies get free drinks.

E Call 17 810-555.

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? Jackpot night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel Participate in their lottery for fantastic cash prizes and gadgets.

E Call 33 477-088.

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? 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.

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? 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? Quiz Night Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Ladies receive five Kicks pounds at the door to redeem five drinks.

E Call 17 810-555.

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? 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? 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? 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? Wine tasting Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel Introducing table-side wine tastings accompanied by canapés.

E Call 17 746-461.

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? Musical Night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel Jam with the Yttrium band to win amazing prizes.

E Call 33 477-088.

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? Beer fest Venue? Karma lounge, Coral Bay Poolside parties don’t get better than with DJ Sami.

E Call 39 777-701.

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? 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? Thai Night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel Experience Thailand’s glam with exotic cocktails and DJ Zoie.

E Call 33 477-088.

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? Pink Fridays Venue? Bushido Lounge Ladies, enjoy a night out; win a pair of Louboutin shoes.

E Call 17 583-555.

Theme? Jammers Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Guests get the chance to jam with the live band.

E Call 17 531-122.

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.

BTM October 2011 147

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

Amy Winehouse Tribute At JJ's Amy Winehouse tribute act Tania Alboni took to the stage at the Live Music Hall, JJ's Irish Restaurant, Adliya last month. Tania began her tribute to the award-winning pop star in 2007 after touring the UK with TV show Stars in Their Eyes contestant Terry Nash Tania Alboni

Nats, Manz, Adele & Megan

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

Alice, Lorna & Jed

Jeff & Cheney

Joe, Ruby, Pete & Penny

Sean

Amanda & Sarah

Jennifer & Sandra with friends

Scot, Angela & Stan

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

Tania Alboni as Amy Winehouse

Sports Bar Chillers C. Club Cosmo Lounge Good Fellas Legends Olympic Sports Bar Polo Lounge Shooters Tracks Sports Bar

Paddy & Annie

Haeth & Dwayney

Louise, Tracy, Joe & Breije

Jennifer & Sandra

Jill, Louise, Sarah & Caroline

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 Ryad & Ellas

148 October 2011 BTM

Angela & Naomi

Natalie, Amanda & Danni

Kelly & Haeth

Tim & Fran

What’s New

Beautiful Lettering With a body crafted from tiger’s eye gemstone and a cap made from solid gold, this delicate fountain pen, called the Max Reinhardt, has been exclusively designed to reward winners of the Montblanc Young Directors Award. Available at A La Mode.

Edited by Alison Coldridge

Sauvé Gent This sleek watch from Joop is subtle and slim whilst still remaining classic and stylish. It is simplistic with a minimal design and face which is easy to read without being over-flashy.

Available at Sharif Group.

Freshly Fragranced Franck Olivier’s Blue is a light perfume for women with a longlasting fresh scent. Top fruity notes of mandarin orange, peach and raspberry are mixed with floral extracts and woody undertones for a long-lasting scent. Available at Al Ezz Trading.

Skin Care Man Bag Men can rejoice in this bag which is spacious enough to carry around daily necessities.

The leather handles and lining confirm its durability and the tweed effect is bang on trend for this season.

Available at Paul Smith.

Enriched with UV protection plus SPF 40, this day cream protects skin throughout the day.

The formula is incredibly lightweight, causes no irritation and protects against visible signs of ageing, pollution and the appearance of sunspots.

Available at leading outlets.

BTM October 2011 149

marketplace

BERLITZ

More Than Languages Learning a new language at Berlitz is designed to be fun and is reflected in its teaching methods; this educator also offers a wider-ranging programme for children.

Learning to speak another language is never without difficulty and Berlitz has factored this into the way in which it formulates lesson plans. That’s hardly surprising when you realise the language educator has been in business for more than 130 years and has millions of ‘graduates’ to vouch for its services.

The wide range of language courses are offered in a variety of widely-spoken languages here in Bahrain, including English, Arabic, French, German, Spanish, Italian and Urdu.

Each language is taught in a way that includes activities as integral learning approaches; this has been proven to produce effective results in children as young as four-years-old.

The qualified teachers who conduct the courses are native speakers who will only use their own language in class.

This method ensures maximum results for the students in accordance to the Berlitz Method.

Berlitz, which has branches in Manama and Budaiya, also offers students a tutoring service, which was reintroduced last month, to help parents who wish their children to excel in their school work. The tutoring programme is available in many languages including Arabic, English, and French.

Budaiya boutique The Budaiya branch, which was opened earlier this year, has been designed as a boutique language centre that offers its services for the entire family, with a particular focus on children.

Here students are able to develop other communication and learning skills, in addition to language courses, through the Berlitz Enrichment Programme (FasTracKids). This is an interactive learning programme where children acquire skills that will be essential in life and at school, such as critical

150 October 2011 BTM

thinking, creativity, confidence, communication and collaboration. The programme enhances the students’ learning experience and encourages them to be more forthright in their approach to both school subjects and issues, which may occur outside of the classroom. At the same time, parents can also improve upon their existing educational skills, and choose to learn a foreign language.

If you don’t have time to attend the classroom sessions, you can instead opt to enrol for the Berlitz Virtual Classroom, an online learning service that gives you all the flexibility you need, delivering classes via the Internet in accordance with the Berlitz standards and methods. So, there is no excuse why you shouldn’t enrol in a language class and broaden your horizon.

E Call 17 694-233 or reception2@berlitz-bahrain.com.

ASIA JEWELLERS

Time Giving Luxury watch brand Bovet has pledged its support for charity by creating and donating a one-of-a-kind watch to an auction for the cause.

Historically, Bovet has offered its support for charities that work to ease the pain suffered by children, and this year is no different. The brand is participating in the third ‘Only Watch’ auction, which raises money for duchenne muscular dystrophy research.

The special watch created for the auction is totally unique, and features many details and decorations in line with the brand’s identity. The seven-day tourbillon is fitted with reverse hand-fitting which allows the hours and minutes to be displayed on both sides of the timepiece.

Another one-of-a-kind feature is the ability to transform the timepiece into both a table clock and a pocket watch.

In keeping with the rest of the Fleurier collection, it is housed inside an Amadeo case.

Chinese connections Bovet was founded in 1822 and has since created many magnificent watches. The history of the brand is linked closely to China and is evident in the mythological dragon and phoenix symbols that adorn both the case and dial.

The dragon is a representation of the emperor of China and is indicative of wisdom, strength and terrestrial power. It is also believed to bring luck. The phoenix, on the other hand, is the emblem of the empress and is a sacred animal from ancient China, and symbolises achievement, success and luck.

Both of these animals, when coupled together, embody perfect harmony, where the yin and yang are in perfect balance.

E Call 17 535-344.

BTM October 2011 151

marketplace CITIBANK

A Beneficial Alliance

Now when you travel on Etihad Airways you can take advantage of a new promotional arrangement for Citibank credit card holders.

Bashayer Dhaif, assistant marketing manager, Sonik Kapur, marketing director and cards business head, Navneet Kampani, consumer bank head, Husam Alaseeri, general manager - Etihad Airways, Chris Binnion - Etihad Airways representative.

GAJRIA ELECTRONICS

Get in Shape!

Stay slim and fit without going to the gym with these new exercise machines designed to burn fat and streamline the contours of your body.

Lifestyle company Legend understands the importance of staying fit and healthy, and now offers two new ‘machines’ to allow you to do just that. The brand’s massager series sees the addition of the Vibration Massager (LM-018Q) and the Body Swing (LM-3000) to its product line-up, which you can incorporate into your daily workout and have some fun at the same time.

The Vibration Massager uses a plate to cause rapid contractions, 30 to 50 per second, which continuously work the muscles, improving flexibility, burning fat, increasing your metabolism rate and improving your circulation.

Alternatively, the Body Swing is designed to tone four different areas of your body. Firstly, the ‘rect posture’ consists of standing on the footboard with the feet apart and your hands on the handle to exercise the back, waist, chest, buttocks and abdomen. The second step is called the ‘acclivitous posture’ wherein you lean your chest forward by 30 degrees and sustain your body with your hands to work your wrists and thighs.

The ‘sit posture’ requires you to sit on the footboard with your waist aligned against the pole to exercise your waist and abdomen. Finally, the ‘ride posture’ requires you to stand on the footboard with your knees bent and back straight while holding the handle with both hands.

This will exercise your buttocks, thighs and shank.

Available at affordable prices in all Gajria stores. You can visit Gajria Electronics for a live demonstration of these exercise routines.

E Call 17 555-616 (Yateem Centre), 17 225-356 (Manama), 17 556-939 (Sanabis).

152 October 2011 BTM

Citibank has announced a new joint venture with Etihad Airways, the national airline of Abu Dhabi, enabling Citibank credit card holders to receive up to 15 per cent off fares to a range of Etihad’s destinations, including top holiday and business hot spots such as Paris, Milan, Tokyo and many more.

“The tie up with Etihad Airways comes in line with our commitment towards offering our customers the highest level of products and services, for their personal and/or business needs,” commented Navneet Kampani, consumer banking head of Citibank in Bahrain.

“We recognise that our customers are frequent flyers, whether for business or leisure, and this new collaboration will assist Citibank customers to travel with greater benefits when flying with Etihad.”

Husam Alaseeri, general manager of Etihad Airways in Bahrain added, “We are proud to partner with Citibank. The joining of our strong and respected brands creates a unique opportunity to offer exceptional value to our customers. I am sure many in Bahrain will enjoy the benefits of this new partnership.”

Citibank customers will be able to take advantage of this scheme from now until the end of August next year.

Etihad, which has been in operation since 2003, offers 28 flights per week from Bahrain to its hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport, with connections to 72 cities in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America.

E Call 17 582-484.

ASIA JEWELLERS

Precious Faces Luxury watch brand Bovet has pledged its support for charity by creating and donating a one-of-a-kind watch to an auction for the cause.

Panerai first created groundbreaking Radiomir professional underwater watches 75 years ago, in 1936, for the Italian navy, for whom they cntinue to supply timepieces.

Over time the designs have retained their original aesthetic features, but both the performance and quality has significantly improved as the quality of the materials used has risen and the exclusive movements have become more refined and sophisticated.

Three new versions of the watch are available, as a trio within special edition sets, within the Radiomir 3 Days collection. All share the same hand-wound P.3000 movement with a three-day power reserve; the difference, though, is in the precious material used for each watch.

The Platino is made from platinum and features a personalised alligator strap and large-size 18k white gold buckle, and the Ora Biano watch is created from 18k white gold and features luminous Arabic and Roman numerals. In contrast, the Oro Rosa is made from 18k polished pink gold and is complemented with a pink gold buckle and luminous Arabic numerals.

E Call 17 535-344.

Radiomir 3 Days Ora Biano

Radiomir 3 Days Platino

Radiomir 3 Days Oro Rosa

BTM October 2011 153

marketplace

AMBASSADOR STORES

Robust Elegance Allow Seiko watchdesigns be a true statement of your style; sport one for that sophisticated look, combining effortless chic and practicality all in one.

154 October 2011 BTM

There is no doubt that over the years Seiko Sportura watches have stood out; now the new collection makes a bigger statement with its attractive designs. Leveraging more than 50 years watchmaking experience, this collection comprises six eye-catching alarm chronographs and three rugged kinetic diver watches.

Whether you are using a watch for a sport activity or just to look good, you can be assured these watches have the precision timing, high durability, total security and high legibility you would expect from Seiko.

The performance of the Sportura is influenced by the design.

The long and curved lugs wrap around the wrist with ease to deliver a comfortable fit; on the cone-shaped chronograph, the buttons deliver a precise operation with its wide surface area.

As a result of the angled edge of the diver watches, the hands and markers align perfectly when you turn the face of the watch away from your eye. E Call 17 225-513.

Premier collection This line of watches has had consistent international success over the years with its synthesis of the old and the new. The watches’ exterior design merges classical architecture with a modern-day twist, and the collection includes the latest kinetic movements.

However, the new timepieces are slightly more rounded, the dials are more textured, the crowns are new and the bracelet links are slightly smaller, giving an overall softer fit on the wrist. The collection includes 16 new watches, with five appealing creations for women, two of which are presented with mother-of-pearl dials.

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Understanding Hypospadias Bahrain Specialist Hospital deals with a wide scope of infantile ailments, including a male birth defect which affects only a small percentage of babies.

Dr Firas Al Khatib

Bahrain Specialist Hospital’s (BSH) paediatric department deals with all forms of disorders and illnesses, working with both the child and parent to ensure the best possible treatment is given.

Dr Firas Al Khatib, a consultant urologist at the hospital, regularly assures parents that even the most difficult, and unusual, situations are resolvable.

One such illness which he treats is called hypospadias, and is a birth defect which affects a boy’s penis. “What occurs is the position of the opening of the tube that carries urine is shifted from its normal place, on the tip of the genitalia, to somewhere along the shaft — usually on the underside of the penis,” the doctor explains.

Hypospadias is an abnormal development which can be treated by surgery, and parents are encouraged to opt for this route. A rare disorder, it affects only approximately one out of 250 male births, and a form of the same defect can also be developed in females.

The exact causes are yet to be determined; however a number of ideas regarding the development of the disorder have been considered. One of these is that the increase of hormones by the mother, such as progesterone, during pregnancy prompts the defect. Other theories include the infant’s inability to produce testosterone and/or the body’s

failure to respond to this hormone.

“Symptoms are minimal in mild cases; in more severe cases hypospadias makes it impossible for the child to urinate while standing,” says Dr Al Khatib. “A diagnostic procedure is usually carried out during the physical examination of a newborn, and we check the urinary tract for other congenital anomalies if hypospadias is present.”

As hypospadias is also known to be associated with other conditions, such as meatal stenosis, obstruction of the urinary tract and hernia, BSH’s qualified team thoroughly check the child to confirm or rule out any other problems.

In mild cases, doctors will monitor the condition to see if it resolves itself over time. With more severe cases where a surgical procedure is required, this involves extending the urethra to the tip of the penis to return it back to its normal position.

“There are several different types of surgery which may include repositioning of the urethra, correcting the placement of the urethral opening in the head of the penis, and reconstructing the skin of the area around the urethral opening,” adds the doctor. “Because the foreskin may be needed for surgical repair, a baby with hypospadias should not be circumcised.” E Call 17 812-000.

BTM October 2011 155

marketplace PARTY MANIA

Spook-tacular Party

ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES

Complete Tranquillity This airline is your gateway to the untapped splendours and wonders of one of the most surprising countries on the African continent.

Prepare for a spooky Halloween this month by shopping at the best store for all your party preparations — Party Mania.

A store unlike any other, this wonderland will make you feel like a kid in a candy store; there is nothing party-related that you would not find here. Party Mania hosts all the ingredients you require for a truly spooky Halloween party.

Start off by transforming your home with believable decorations to create a haunted house effect with a wide range of scene setters, such as skeletons, ghosts and R.I.P. signs, which can be plastered on walls, doors and floors for an instant transformation. Decorate the ceiling with descending spiders and add them on the furniture for a scarier effect; you could also add some plastic eyeballs into punch bowls or glasses, and then dare your guests to have a sip!

In addition, Party Mania has that perfect music CD to set the mood, as well as costumes for both adults and children so that you can get ‘in character’.

When it is time to eat, the store provides a range of Halloween-themed cutlery and crockery for that extra seasoning. Equally, don’t let your friends leave the party without a goody-bag filled with accessories and pumpkindesigned bubble-blowers.

This, though, is just the tip of the iceberg; Party Mania has countless themes around which to create a party, such as Hello Kitty, Dora, Barbie, Jonas Brothers, Hannah Montana, Batman and Superman. It’s the place to acquire all the accessories needed for parties, whether for kids, teens, or adults. If you want it, the store has it! E Call 17 660-515.

Are you in need of a restful and nourishing holiday with a scenic backdrop?

Then the Ethiopian resort Kuriftu is the perfect destination. Located on the shores of Ethiopia’s largest lake, Lake Tana, it is a stunning venue along the River Nile and offers all you need, in a spa, to catch up on some welldeserved rest and recreation.

There are 28 guest rooms and each individual bungalow either faces the lake or is set among tropical gardens. All rooms tend to be larger than your average guest room, and are decorated with a clever blend of native Ethiopian architecture and décor, but still equipped with all essential modern necessities, including a flatscreen TV to while away the hours if you don’t fancy exploring outside.

When feeling peckish head to the resort’s restaurant, situated along the waterfront with an outdoor patio for you to enjoy the views. The resort has a wide variety of local and international wines and both regional and international cuisine for you to try. Or if you want a quiet night in, you can order to your room. The resort’s world-class spa provides the perfect place to relax and unwind, with spectacular views of Lake Tana as your backdrop.

Alternatively, you can take a dip in the outdoor pool.

Be sure also to explore outside of the resort, as there are some breathtaking scenic views and must-see sites that surround Kuriftu. The resort provides various tour packages or you can venture out on your own.

There are 30 islands on the lake, with numerous historical sites to explore.

You can visit the first stone bridge constructed in Ethiopia in 1626, and the Nile Falls situated just 37 km downstream from the town of Bahir Dar. The falls are estimated to be between 37 and 45 metres high and are truly spectacular to see. E Call 17 215-022.

Ethiopian Airlines flies daily from Bahrain to Bahir Dar via Addis Ababa; it is one of just many fascinating locations to explore in this ancient land.

156 October 2011 BTM

winwin

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

1

2

3

Who is the Northern Governor? ___________________________ Where is HRM Summit 2011 held? ___________________________ Where can you find Simeen Farhat ? ___________________________

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

Benvenuti a ca

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Deepak Panday Second Place : Irel Ege Third Place : Lourdes Mariano

Last month’s solutions

1.

1. Jafar Hassan bin Rajab 2. BIECC

4

What cuisine is offered by Leila?

3. Dana Abdulghani

___________________________

5. Joe Tawfik (Silah Gulf)

4. George Cherian 6. Photographer/creative design 7. Adhari Park

5

6

Who runs the Sofitel hotel?

8. Nissan Juke

___________________________

10. JJ’s Irish Restaurant

Who has pennies in a jar? ___________________________

9. Mövenpick Hotel

2.

Ad Seek 1. Al Abraaj 2. Passion For Dessert

Pre

3. Spring 4. World Beat Fitness Center

7

Who is an UNESCO artist? ___________________________

Name:

Address:

8

What car did we test drive? ___________________________

9 Where can you find Gusto?

3.

Telephone:

Email:

cpr:

___________________________

10

Who collects wrestling belts? ___________________________

Entry deadline is October 15. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

4.

BTM October 2011 157

tarotscopethismonth

Libra

Sep 23 – Oct 21

The Ace of Pentacles heralds the start of promising things in relation to finance and the next few months will bring a work opportunity your way, which may improve your income handsomely. A colleague who has been away for some time will return with a business proposition that really is as good as it sounds! There are less favourable omens concerning water this month and you should take care near pools or the sea.

The colour red also has a role to play in a family heirloom that goes missing and you might find yourself on the wrong end of some unkind suspicions. The number 72 carries significance as the last two digits of a telephone number of a friend needing your help, so if it rings any bells then be sure to act upon your best hunch.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Pentacles For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 Life might seem like a prison at the moment and just to make matters worse, the world is providing little respite for you in most areas of your existence. A series of minor events throughout September and early October may come together to develop into a minor crisis that will take serious thought to overcome. If you are having doubts over a task set to you at work then ensure you speak out early otherwise things may get too much and when it is too late, you may find few people have any sympathy for your plight.

Card of the Month — Ten of Wands

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 Don’t allow yourself to be pushed into purchasing something outside of your means this month as you might find yourself regretting the situation in the weeks to come. If an over anxious friend or companion tries to persuade you towards extravagance be sure to respond in the negative. It will not be a good time of the year for you to contemplate any type of purchase that leaves you with a long-term debt to settle. Be sure to double-check any accounts in your daily working life as you may find that an error escapes your attention first time around and might lead to more serious problems if not spotted. On October 27 a good friend may come to you with a serious problem and, as you delve deeper, you could be surprised by what you uncover.

Card of the Month — Seven of Pentacles

158 October 2011 BTM

Capricorn December 22 – January 18 The fire of competition spurs you to great success this month and a welcome message through the mail sees you take confidence in an ongoing legal battle. You may also find yourself being drawn in to assist a partner in matters of work where two heads are most definitely better than one. Matters of finance are improving and you will find the outlook for the next few months a bright one. There may also be a new investment with which you will become involved and the omens are positive if investigated thoroughly.

Watch a young girl who may be acting in an unusual fashion as she may be trying to cope with a problem she cannot handle alone. Call upon the Samaritan in you and offer to lend an ear.

Card of the Month —King of Wands Aquarius ­January 20 — February 18 A past secret concerning money will return to haunt you just when you thought it was buried and forgotten. If you have been trying your best to hide this moment in your life then you are about to learn an awkward lesson in truthfulness — and why it should be employed as often as possible! From the shadows of this incident will also emerge a new problem; a partner who finds your secrecy uncomfortable. You may be forced to commit yourself to a few hard compromises and shed a little of the freedom in your life you are used to enjoying.

Card of the Month — The Empress

Pisces February 21 – March 20 The Devil appearing in your reading implies that you will be led down the road to temptation many times this month, both in matters romantic and perhaps more perilously, of finance. Whilst many of you will offer up a good measure of resistance, there will be some of you who may find the easy path too tempting to resist. Around October 22 an attractive member of the opposite sex may enter your life and for those of you already attached this could potentially mean very bad things. On the work front, a colleague could try to rope you into a quick-rich scheme that looks like it will backfire with disastrous results. You have been warned.

Card of the Month — The Devil

Aries ­March 21 – April 20 Prosperity could well be yours this month — solving a number of financial issues that seemed insurmountable in the early part of the year — and leading you into a new and secure future.

However, the real message for October is not your turnaround in fortunes (which, incidentally, could well have something to do with a generous relative) but also in your attitude to those near you, who may need some monetary support of their own. On a separate issue and yet still connected with finance, your good luck could be hampered by one outstanding bill which you have been putting off paying. Address it now and set it behind you.

Card of the Month — The Pope

Taurus April 21 – May 20 There is always hope in life and you will quickly come to realise this fact as the next few weeks pass by. At the beginning of October you may feel optimistic and excited about the coming weeks ahead but a dispute with a family member could knock you back temporarily. However, you need to learn to rise from this fall as soon as you can, no matter how hard it might be, so that you can continue forward. Sometime towards the middle of the month a letter could raise your spirits and lead you to follow a change of career. This is likely to be something you’ve always wanted to do, so don’t hold back otherwise you might regret it forever.

Card of the Month — The Star

advertisersindex GEMINI May 21 – June 22 This is likely to be a good month for you in any aspect concerning work, especially if you are considering changing career or learning a new trade. The building part of any venture is often the most important part so ensure you prepare carefully. Do this and you can enjoy a profitable return in the run up to Christmas. Relationship-wise, you will find that the strains of the last few months will finally be put behind you so that by the end of October you will be well on the way to a positive period with your partner, realising for the first time in many years just how important he or she is to your life. On the health front you should take care not to aggravate an old injury otherwise you might find yourself on the operating table quite unexpectedly.

Card of the Month — The Magician

Cancer ­June 21 – July 20 A woman will appear in your world and her arrival will have such an impact that by the end of this year you will not recognise the person you have become or the life that you will be leading. Her influence is likely to be to your benefit although at first she may appear more of a rival than an ally. Expect your first meeting to be sometime towards the second week of October. By October 29, no matter how unlikely it might seem, you will be good friends. There is even the possibility of romance for many of you guys out there but be warned, her hold over you could become so powerful that you may start to feel a little trapped. Unless you are an “all or nothing” person, think twice.

Card of the Month —The Empress

leo July 23 — August 22 Of all the signs this coming month, yours, Leo, may find the road most difficult to negotiate. You could be beset by a series of obstacles that whilst not life-threatening, may challenge your resolve and stretch your patience. The first issue could hit as soon as the start of the month when a face from the past returns to your life, causing conflicting feelings and more than a few doubts to arise within you. For a little while you may be tempted to succumb to this person’s charm but you should keep your distance unless you are prepared to make a serious commitment. This isn’t the kind of person who likes being messed around. On the health front you should watch out for a possible injury to your head whilst playing sport.

Card of the Month — The Tower

Virgo August 21 – September 22 October will see many of you trying hard to get in touch with the spiritual side of your characters as you set about changing the way that you live your lives. An emotional family upheaval last month has set you back slightly but if you continue to believe in your own abilities you should be able to overcome this hurdle. Career-wise, a great opportunity in your preferred field will literally land in your lap somewhere towards the end of the month and this could set you up for the rest of the year and beyond. Just be sure not to forget the people that love you, especially if one person in particular is farther away than you might like.

Card of the Month —The High Priestess

FAMOUS libra THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear BOGGI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Mango . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,11 Origem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Tod’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Financial Institutions Citibank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 HSBC Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Nexus Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Home and Furnishings AJM Kooheji Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Bo Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Creative Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Poliform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The Closets International . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Aran) . . . . . . . . . 119

Hotel & Luxury Apartments Crowne Plaza Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Fraser Suites Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Mövenpick Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Ramee Group of Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 The Dragon Hotel & Resort . . . . . . . . . 114 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Windsor Tower Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Ajmal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 AXA Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Bahrain 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Bahrain 40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Bath & Body Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3 Berlitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ethiopian Airlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Gajria Electronics (Legend) . . . . . . . . . . . 98 HRM Summit 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 JJ’s Irish Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Lost Paradise of Dilmun . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Nestle Talent Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Party Mania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Seef Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Star International Real Estate . . . . . . . 100 Sweet N Lo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC The Royal Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Think Pink Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 World Beat Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Restaurants and Cafés

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 43

Motoring

Telecommunications

Jewellery & Watches Cartier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Chanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC,1 Sharif Group (Saint Honore) . . . . . . . . . . 47

Medical & Dental Services Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Skoda) . . . . . . . . 51

Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● 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 omplimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting ww.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

● Burhama Cold Store

Susan Sarandon

Hugh Jackman

Other Advertisers

Block 338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Bushido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Café Italia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Deja Vu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Gusto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Leila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The Crepe Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Zayt Zaytoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain

Gwyneth Paltrow

Budget Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 E. K. Kanoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Euro Motors (MINI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Mohd Jalal & Sons (Jaguar) . . . . . . . . . . 71 Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons (Renault) . . . . . 41

● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

BTM October 2011 159

lastword Yoda turns to the darkside

An Obsessed Fan Be JAMES CLAIRE Sometimes when we look back into history we are astounded at the starkness or obviousness of a situation, which we had missed.

160 October 2011 BTM

I have many times written of the four musketeers; my colleagues, at work. Sadly one of them now seems to have always been a mouseketeer — instead of a fabled heroic French warrior to a king.

As I look back over the years we have spent together it all seems so obvious now; telltale signs I had missed. A while ago, while discussing an intended column on linguistics, my young colleague instantly started talking of the language of mandalorian. I had never heard of it and hence missed its connection to anything else.

But, there is also his hair. It defies gravity on a bad day; on a good day it is so pumped with product and texture putty he has trouble keeping his chef’s cap stuck to it.

Then there’s his iPhone and his keenness to always grab it when in a difficult situation and start swinging it around the kitchen. With whimsical swooshing sounds he would run around the kitchen like a loon, waving it in the air as if in full samurai sword fight; music and swooshing in sync with each other as he battled make-believe stormtroopers through the corridors of our work.

Now I realise he has a light sabre app on his phone!

Individually these were merely the day-to-day incidents of a disturbed young kid. We liked him like that; we put it down to artistic vision and creative flair.

But then he really cracked.

One day over lunch he started quoting friends we had never heard of; Kenobi, Solo, Luke, Leia, C-3PO and others, talking about the diorama in his bedroom of his favourite scenes. He spoke of X-wing fighters, falcons and troop carriers; he discussed the schematics of the Death Star and spoke highly of those in charge of the Empire.

Tag lines, one-liners, clichés or memorable quotes I had heard from other people before, or directly from other movies; but our friend had now become a strange little man obsessed with a thing called ‘The Force’. Apparently The Force is strong

with this one but if I hear him quote it again, or any other line from the movies, I think I’ll have the kid committed.

If you saw him, he is young, athletic and good-looking. You would never pick him as such a sad and sorry loner; unlucky in love is an understatement. He seems to be somewhat of a repellent, rather than a magnet to women. Still, he was always a great guy at work.

It has intrigued me, though, that someone so ‘available’ could have such a hard time with something as simple as a commitment to love. Now we know why; he is already taken!

It would seem Mr Twenty-Something has lost his heart and has been committed for many years; his mind is as full, as his hair is, of gel. We all have our foibles, I was willing to let him have his few.

But now I notice he watches Star Wars’ rap songs and constantly quotes Darth Vader, Hans Solo and that little green, ugly character, Yoda. He talks of the first series and the problems with the second trilogy, speaks of the animated Star Wars movie and even the Family Guy version. He can’t find a girlfriend, because he’s committed to the world of Star Wars.

To most girls, Star Wars ranks alongside Star Trek; most things sci-fi, cars, hot rods and, well anything, other than shoes or shopping. The poor kid doesn’t stand a chance.

I think it’s cute. I don’t deny anyone their quirks; I now understand the whole gravity-defying hair bit, too. It isn’t a trend, he is trying to be cool enough to date Princess Leia; she had hair issues, too. The kid simply wants to be from another planet.

What I really don’t get is that if anyone should be obsessed with Star Wars, surely it should be me. The first movie came out in 1977, I was a pre-teen, our friend the mouseketeer wasn’t even be born for another seven years.

It’s great that he has a hobby. Perhaps it was instilled in him from birth; he is, after all, as hairy as a wookie and he has always answered the question, “What religion are you?” with “Jedi Warrior”.

Anyway, lucky the poor kid’s a dab hand at cooking. As Yoda might put it, “Nuts he is, but talented he be!”

Oops… gotta go; he’s about to pass out, trying to move a steak across the bench with ‘The Force’ again. Meditate some more on this I will!