Bahrain This Month - October 2012

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

October 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 10 www.bahrainthismonth.com

Horrible Histories

British Tales & Tribulations

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Featured This Month:

Think Pink | Jewellery Arabia | Germany in Bahrain

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

Issue 182

Contents October 2012 Cover Story:

26 A Gruesome Show We will all be going barmy with this theatre production from a British playhouse as 1,000 years of British history is put

26

under the microscope.

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

23

30

23 Be Dazzled: Jewellery Arabia returns for its annual extravaganza 28 Think Pink: Take action and donate for a worthy cause 36 Bollywood is Coming!: Playback time with a singing star 40 Fashion Fund-raiser: BSPCA ‘annual’ charity show 42 Bones, Brains and Brilliance: Exploring science 44 Testing Your Endurance: A sprint triathlon for starters!

23-44 Calendar: Events during October

Diplomatic Talk:

50 Exploring Opportunities The Chinese influence becomes more conspicuous by the

50

day; winning construction projects or introducing new brands

92

is no longer unusual for this Oriental power.

Business:

53 Effective Resourcing Keeping and maintaining staff is no easy exercise. It pays dividends, though, to ensure your employees are properly trained and receive the right support.

54

117 Bystander At BTM we spent the month attending Malaysia’s National Day and welcoming the Koreans back to Bahrain. Our appetite for everything i-related was tested with the new iPad menu at Maki and insights into the digital world at the Social Media Masters Forum. In between we took in an African show at Lost Paradise of Dilmun, the Onam harvest festival and a ‘bizarre’ opening!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

54 Ahead of the Curve Staying on top in the fast-moving world of fashion requires a nimble operation. Pierre Fourie explains how the Azadea Group achieves this.

56 Grand Aspirations A first for the Ramee Group, Salvatore Romano tells us about the new five-star hotel the group will open shortly here in the Kingdom.

October 2012 3

pa n e r a i . c o m

history a n d heroes.

luminor 1950 3 days - 47mm

Manama: Asia Jewellers, Sheraton Complex, +973 1 753 4444

Issue 182

Contents October 2012 Germany in Bahrain:

61 Expanding Horizons With formal diplomatic ties now entering their fifth decade,

61

the relationship between the Kingdom and this European powerhouse has deep foundations.

Korea in Bahrain:

78 Cementing Ties After a break of just over a dozen years the Korean Embassy opens its doors again in the Kingdom with the hope of expanding trade ties even further.

Downtime:

78

113

89 Season of Fun: Favourites return 90 Gadgets: Life made easier 92 Music: Pushing love 94 Computer Games: Light torches 95 Websites: Education think tank 96 Apps: Paper sightings 97 Movies: Hotel perks 98 Satellite TV: Private shadows

Motoring: 113 Exquisite Interiors: Bentley Mulsanne 114 Showcase: Ford Fusion

125

144

Dining: 125 Sweet Temptations: CafĂŠ Delices opens 131 Showcase: Leila Lebanese Restaurant

After Dark: 137 Bizarre Lounge: Nothing strange about this new venue 138 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 141 Showcase: Cocoon Lounge 36

40

42

157 158 159 160

www.bahrainthismonth.com

44

Showcase: WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word

117 Consumer Report: Home furnishings 143 What’s New: Bold styles 144 Marketplace: Latest products and services

October 2012 5

ENGINEERED IN STAINLESS STEEL AND HIGH-TECH CERAMIC Hrithik Roshan

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The team

Bahrain This Month October 2012

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

Dear Readers,

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

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Cover

Cover Picture: Horrible Histories comes to the Kingdom with an irreverent take on some of the more ‘interesting’ aspects of British history.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

October 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 10

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

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Horrible History

Join us on Facebook

British Tales

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

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

To find out how to use these, read page 156.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

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Featured This Month:

Think Pink | Jewellery Arabia | Germany in Bahrain

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

As we enter the last quarter of the year there is always a certain buzz, and this year is no different. The events calendar fills up quite quickly; there is certainly plenty to keep us occupied this month.

The star attraction has to be Jewellery Arabia. All that glitters will be on show again as some of the biggest brands in the business make their presence felt in the Kingdom. There’s also a bevy of country pavilions from around the globe to showcase their latest creations.

October is Think Pink month and we have a round-up of activities taking place to highlight awareness of breast cancer. Our cover image originates from the Horrible Histories theatre production company. One thing we can always say about the British is that they always know how to laugh at themselves.

This month, we have three interviews with resident ambassadors in the Kingdom. We talk to Sabine Taufmann, the German ambassador, as 40 years of diplomatic relations are celebrated between Bahrain and Germany. What’s more, to mark the event we can expect a ‘Buddy Bear’, made famous in Berlin, to soon adorn our streets.

After a break of just over a dozen years, a Korean Embassy is formally reopened here. The charge d’affaires, Joonha Yu, explains how he hopes this will expand the already significant trade partnership between Korea, Bahrain and the wider GCC. The Chinese celebrate their national day on October 3; Li Chen, the Chinese ambassador to the Kingdom tells us about some of the Chinese companies with an active interest in our economy.

In our business section we include interviews with Pierre Fourie, head of the Azadea retailing group in Bahrain, and Salvatore Romano, the general manager of the Ramee Group’s first five-star hotel in the Kingdom. Opening in November, this flagship hotel is expected to be the first of many such properties for Ramee around the region.

Hoping to keep us sweet, meanwhile, is the new Café Delices venue at the Gulf Hotel. So, enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer as autumn sets in and brings with it a welcome change in temperature.

www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth October 2012 7

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Korean Embassy Official Opening The South Korean Embassy in operation since last year headed by Charge d'Affaires Joonha Yu was officially inaugurated in the presence of HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Foreign Affairs Minister, members of the Diplomatic Corps, government officials members of the Korean community & guests

HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa with Joonha Yu, Kyou-Hyun Kim & dignitaries

Shaikh Khalifa, Sanjeev, HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, Mohammed Kooheji & HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador

Joonha Yu, HE Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa & Kyou-Hyun Kim

The Bin Hindi's

Miloer, Stephanie, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & John Miller

Meeji Kim, Joonha Yu & Khalifa Rumaihi

Joonha Yu & Abdulrahman

Meeji Kim, Joonha Yu, HE Vichai Virasirikul, Thai Ambassador & Kyou-Hyun Kim

Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador & Khalifa Rumaihi

Sanjeev, Mohammed, Jawad Y. Al Hawaj & Ebrahim Kooheji

Meeji, Jawad & Joonha

Agus & Sukma

8 October 2012

Kim & Jun

Ahmed Haji Jumat & Steve Harrison

Afnan Al Zayani

Nor & HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador

Eskher, Bonnie & Sukma

David & Jieun

Jenny

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Head to our glamourous Styling Lounge from the 17th to the 30th of October, with a very special star appearance by TV personality and make-up artist Joelle Mardinian, founder and owner of Maison de Joelle.

Celebrate your beauty and style with advice from a professional stylist and image consultant, and the hottest tips on the latest make-up, hair, and nail art styling trends.

Visit our Styling Lounge daily from 10am to1pm and 3pm to 8pm and indulge yourself in luxurious fashion.

We’ll have you looking so spectacular head-to-toe, all eyes will definitely be on you!

Check out more details at www.modabwtc.com, Tel.:1753 5140 facebook.com/modamall, or

twitter.com/MODA_Mall

bystanderthismonth

Malaysian National Day Celebrations HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador & the Malaysian Embassy hosted a MERDEKA reception to celebrate Malaysia's 55th National Day. The event attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps, members of the Malaysian community & guests was held at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

Com Wan, Nadia, Shahafeez, Nor Hayati & HE Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad

HE Ahmad Shahizan & Khalifa Rumaihi

HE Karim Shaker, HE Ahmad Shahizan & HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador cut the cake watched by diplomats

Panos, Doris, Amy & Sarin

Doris, Masuma, Atika & Lea

Dr Amany, Dr Lina, Chris & Dr Samy

Bruce, Louis & Jean

Nor, Mala, HE Ahmad Shahizan, Milena, Bonnie & Meeji

Rosli & Fazrina

10 October 2012

CDR Prasertsale & CDR Krittirut

Jaap & Wendy Vaandrager

Francesco

Miswadi, Marsya & Noraini

Joonha Yu, Meeji & Nabeel

HE Ahmad Shahizan & Dr Mazin Juma

Rifqi & Witchu

CDR Buccitti & CDR Kondo

Ramadhan

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Pure adrenalin

Grand Prix de Monaco Historique Cooper T71/73, 1964

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Social Media Masters Forum 2012 Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, President, Information Affairs Authority, the Social Media Club held its first Social Media Masters Forum at Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain.

The event highlighted the necessary plans and strategies for the successful use of the social media for, ministries, government organizations and the private sector

HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Mohammed Al Qaed, Khamis Al Muqla & Mohammed Zainalabedin

Khalid, Ghazi, Samya & Dhabiya

Mohammed, Hisham & Khalid

Dunia, Mohammed, Mahmood & Zainab

Maria, Ghada, Shelley & Megan

12 October 2012

Ali Sabkar welcomes the delegates & guests

Speaker Ernesto Verdugo accepting a token of appreciation from HE Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Prem & Kartik

Afrah & Heinz

Salman Al Mahmeed

Salah, Isa & Ali

Lulwa, Abdul Nasser & Fawaz

Mariam & Rasha

Aysha, Afra & Hassan

Kawthar, Shaikha, Lulwa, Hassan, Zhura, Razan & Batool

Hassan, Mariam & Majeed

Zainal & Naseem

Batool & Zahra

Noora

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Al Wasat 10th Anniversary Reception Under the patronage of HE Jawad Al Arrayedh, Deputy Prime Minister, Adel Maskati, chairman, and members of the board of Al Wasat newspaper hosted a reception to mark the 10th anniversary of the publication last month. The event held at the Gulf Hotel's Convention Center was attended by a number of diplomats, dignitaries and guests

HE Jameel Humaidan, Labour Minister & Malik

Dr Mansoor Al Jamri, HE Jawad Al Arrayedh & Adel Maskati

Adel Maskati, HE Jawad Al Arrayedh & Farouk Almoayyed cut the celebratory cake

HE Jauhar Saleem, Pakistani Ambassador, HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador, HE Enrico Padula, Italian Ambassador, Stephanie Williams & Tom Williams

Sadiq Dawani, Murad Ali, Abdul Nabi, Jassim & Shawki Fakhroo

Dr Mohammed, Elham & Rawal

Dr Mohammed Khozai, Dr Akbar Jafferi & Abdulla Wedaei

14 October 2012

Kohei & Joonha Yu

Ismail Ali, Dr Mansoor Al Jamri & Adel Maskati

HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qadir, Palestinian Ambassador, HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador & Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador

HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador & HE Shaikh Hisham Al Khalifa

HE Karim Al Shaker, Adel Maskati, Stephanie Williams, Dr Dhafer Al Umran & HE Jawad Al Arrayedh

Abbas, Ali & Hassan

Omran & Rowena

Yasser, Abdelah & Bassil

Tom & Stephanie

Nobuko & Kohei

Nasser

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Best Of Bahrain Book Launch Under the patronage of HE Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Executive Director, INJAZ Bahrain, a reception was held to mark the launch of 'Best of Bahrain' Volume 2. The event was held at the Al Khayma Tent, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa last month

Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa & Rawia Beyhum

Ali, Olivier, Anita, Hala & Rawan

Riyad, Ebrahim & Omar

Emil, Cathy, Butch & Melanio

Rohini, Rawia, Julie & Mariam

Mark Neukom & Rawia Beyhum

Khamis & Fathi

Amer, Rawia & Amani

Robin & Amer

Chanden & Mita

Nadia

Misa & Nabeel

Rasool & Srusti

Stelos, Eleana, Rawia & Kareem

Chris & Peter

Waseem

Claudia & Marcel

Salma, Zainab & Julie

Marhaba Launched At Airport The Bahrain International Airport formally launched Marhaba services, which will offer premium passenger handling services for people arriving and departing, including transfer and porter services

16 October 2012

Mohamed Yousif Al-Binfalah, chief executive officer, Bahrain Airport (left) and Ismail Ali Albanna, executive vice president, marhaba (right) at the ribbon cutting

Brigadier Col. Zuhair Al Absi, director general, Directorate of Exits Security, Ministry Of Interior; Ismail Ali Albanna, Mohamed Yousif Al-Binfalah, Helal Ebrahim Al Saadoon, manager, Airport Terminal Operations BAC, & Lt. Col A .Aziz ADosary, director, Airport Police Directorate, Ministry Of Interior

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The Diplomat KLM Prize Giving The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa and KLM Airlines joined forces to organize a raffle for guests coming for the hotels Iftar buffet at Al Fanar, and a chance to win 2 round trip tickets to Abu Dhabi, and 2 round trip tickets to a European destination. (Paris, London, Amsterdam or Frankfurt) simply by filling up a form with their contact details.

At the end of the month, KLM randomly picked 4 lucky winners who received their prizes at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel lobby

Mary, Ali & Michael

Mary, Saeed & Michael

Meriel Cooper Art Exhibition Meriel Cooper held an exhibition of her art at the World Beat Fitness Centre Art Gallery in Janabiya last month

Abdullah Wallace & Meriel Cooper

Meriel Cooper with guests

Anisa Dadabhai Lunch Anisa Dadabhai hosted a luncheon for a small group of friends at Cafe Lilou in Al A'ali Mall last month

Mariam Kanoo, Safia Kanoo, Mala Kumar, Anne Middleton, Lydia Moore, Anisa Dadabhai & Bonnie Krajeski

Bonnie & Mala

Dadabhai Dinner Mohammed & Anisa Dadabhai hosted a dinner in honour of former residents VADM (Rtd) Charles W. Moore & Lydia Moore at Bushido Restaurant

Mohammed Dadabhai, Lydia Moore, Anisa Dadabhai & VADM (Rtd) Moore

Mohammed, Anisa, VADM (Rtd) Moore, Lydia, George & Anne

Marriott Executive Apartments Manama and Residence Inn Fire Drill Marriott Executive Apartments Manama, Bahrain and Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair recently arranged a successful fire drill which all the employees and heads of departments participated. It also celebrated the global Housekeepers Appreciation Week 2012. Marriott International announced the week, from 9 to 15 September 2012 as “The International Housekeepers Week�

Sam Van Campenhout, General Manager with the fire drill trainer & staff

18 October 2012

Staff at the Global Housekeepers Appreciation Week 2012

A staff member during the fire drill

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Group Plus Reception Group Plus Bahrain hosted a cocktail reception at The Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa to celebrate agreement with the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) to become the exclusive media organisation for broadcasting rights of commercial ads on Bahrain radio stations and television channels

Ebrahim Kooheji & Akram Miknas

Shah & Mohammed

Amy & Julia

Hadi & Missa

Aziza, Stephen & George

Rahul, Vineeth, Patrick & Shukoor

Firas & Roy

Cynthia, Berna & Nelson

Samya & Nivs

Badria, James & Lori

Susan & Pearl

Akram & Nawal

Sunil & Sreekumar

Fadia

Deepinder

Dr Ravi

Gulf Hotel Reception Gulf Hotel held a cocktail reception for the hotel’s long staying guests and corporate clients last month.

The reception was held at Typhoon and was hosted by The Gulf Hotel’s Area general manager Ian McKie along with members of the hotel’s management team

Zuhair, Anita, Mohamed, Louisa, Afaf, Carina & Aileen

20 October 2012

Gulf Hotel team with the guests

Mani, Vinai & Mohamed

Mr Pillai & Vinod

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Seef district, facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg.

Tel. 17.564444 - Fax. 17.564466 email: phodecor@batelco.com.bh

happeningsthismonth When? October 16-20 | Event? Jewellery Arabia | Venue? BIECC

Prepare to be Dazzled If you can differentiate between precious stones, timepiece technologies and diamond cuts then this particular event must be on your October calendar.

Luxury, opulence and glamour will again be filling the Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre this month as the Middle East’s largest jewellery exhibition and trade show returns.

Proudly boasting even more brands, exhibitors and jewels than previous years, Bahrain’s very own Jewellery Arabia 2012 is cited as an event not to be missed. Over 550 exhibitors from 30 countries will be in attendance, transforming the venue into a gem-filled fantasy world. The four halls will be completely filled with exhibitors, each equipped with either a stand or an area in which the brand’s items will be lavishly displayed.

Whether you love emeralds, rubies, sapphires, gold, silver or diamonds, you can browse, try on and purchase jewellery and timepieces of all varieties during the five-day event as the exhibitors unveil their most exquisite products. So, get ready to empty your wallets!

Since its conception in 1992, each year’s event has lured in thousands of visitors who come along to see the crème de la crème of the fine-jewellery industry. The most prestigious jewellery houses and iconic watch manufacturers take part annually including De Beers, Chanel, Chopard, Harry Winston, Omega, Panerai, Patek Philippe, Piaget, Van Cleef & Arpels and Also this month

Hublot, among others. Many of these high-profile international brands will use the exhibition as a platform to introduce their latest launches and innovations to the Middle East collectors’ market. Additionally, visitors will be given an exclusive first look at new and upcoming brands.

Many of the exhibiting companies have an exclusive presence in the Middle East, providing visitors with a unique view of the global market. Country pavilions from Brazil, Hong Kong, India and Malaysia are included in the line-up; collectively, these companies reflect the very best manufacturing capabilities and design expertise that their respective countries have to offer.

Joining these high-profile brands and national groups are some of the Middle East’s finest retailers and manufacturers, led by a selection of Bahrain’s leading jewellers. They include Bahrain Jewellery Centre, Asia Jewellers, Al Mahmood Pearls, Al Zain and Devji among others.

An evening of awards Coinciding with Jewellery Arabia 2012 is a special awards ceremony to be held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain. The Eighth Middle East Watches, Jewellery and Pen Awards will take place on October 16 and will reward the efforts of successful and long-standing brands.

World days Celebrate the world days in style this October.

When? October 4 Event? Animal day Protect and care for the millions of animals who need our help.

When? October 5 Event? Teacher’s day Encourage your children to recognise how instrumental their teachers are.

When? October 10 Event? Mental health day Consider how you can help all those who suffer from mental health illnesses.

When? October 11 Event? Sight day Attempt to recognise the difficulties faced by those who can’t see.

When? October 26 Event? Food day Try to understand the possible ways in which we can all end starvation.

When? October 24 Event? United Nations day Think of the seven billion people on this planet and the daily challenges faced.

E Visit www.jewelleryarabia.com.

36 x Arts & Culture - 40 x Clubs & Societies - 42 x Teens & Kids - 44 x Sports & Recreation

www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2012 23

happeningsthismonth When? Throughout October Event? Breast Cancer Awareness Month Venue? Various Do your part in helping raise awareness and funds for this illness.

E Visit www.thinkpinkbahrain.com.

When? October 6 | Event? Music concert | Venue? Cultural Hall

When? Until October 20 Event? Fall for Fashion campaign Venue? Bahrain City Centre Shop ‘til you drop this month with plenty of prizes.

E Call 17 177-771 or visit www. bahraincitycentre.com.

When? October 9 Event? Motivational talk Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel Brian Tracy talks about how to succeed in business and in life.

E Call 36 048-699 or 39 986-580.

Musical Notes If you aren’t looking forward to the end of the Kingdom’s International Music Festival this month, you will be pleased to hear of one more musical treat to come.

A concert to be held on October 6 from 8-9pm will showcase the undeniable talent of musicians from the Bahrain Music Institute. Part of a national project, supported by the Ministry of Culture, the concert will showcase the skill of Iraqi Oud player Saad Mahmood Jawad in addition to five students who will perform ten Arabic musical pieces.

The ongoing project, titled the ‘Knights of Tunes’, discovers

A Dramatic Affair

When? October 17-18 Event? World Maritime Day Parallel Event Venue? Various The tragedy of the Titanic is honoured by a two-day maritime event.

E Visit www.gop.bh.

When? October 18 Event? Costume parade Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Be entertained watching a cultural fashion show in aid of charity.

E Call 17 263-447.

24 October 2012

When? October 11 | Event? Theatre production | Venue? British Club

When? October 13 and 14 Event? Horrible Histories performance Venue? Cultural Hall This gruesome show will educate children on historical tales in a fun way!

E Call 39 616-858.

When? October 16-20 Event? Jewellery Arabia Venue? BIECC Witness the exquisite beauty of the world’s top jewellery houses.

E Visit www.jewelleryarabia.com.

various musical talents and supports, fosters and develops them. These talents are discovered through musical contests, organised by various bodies, and through recommendations made by the Bahrain Music Institute involving some of its highly talented students. These students receive intensive training and participate in customised programmes inclusive of the most recent training methods.So far the project has, in record time, produced positive results that will have an impact on the music scene in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Call 17 721-999.

If you love the mystery, intrigue and drama that surrounds Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, then don’t miss out on a theatre production about the man himself.

The British Club has invited the UK-based Performance Exchange Theatre Company to come to Bahrain to serve up an evening performance to fans of the fictional detective.

In addition to the show of ‘The Return of Sherlock Holmes’ there will be a sumptuous dinner for all attendees. Do keep in mind that it is just the one performance, so book your tickets early to avoid disappointment. E Call 17 725-194.

When? October 18 | Event? Costume parade | Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel

When? October 6 Event? Music concert Venue? Cultural Hall Soak up an evening of musical performances from Arabic stars.

E Call 17 721-999.

It’s a Small World The American Mission Hospital is continuing its consistent fundraising this month with an event that will support free breast cancer screening in Bahrain.

The hospital has organised an evening of diversity with an international costume parade centred on the theme ‘It’s a small world’ that will encourage the acknowledgement of cultures around the world. The show has been created, choreographed and coordinated

by Adriana Skaloud.

Attendees will pay just BD15 to enjoy the show, and the ticket price includes the option to indulge in a wide spread of international cuisine and drinks.

E Call 17 263-447.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth

A Gruesome Education One of the world’s bestselling storybooks has been transformed into a theatre production. Full of gore, the historical tales are recounted in a memorable way.

If you have ever read the Horrible Histories books you will remember the vivid gruesomeness that oozed out of the pages.

The guts, grime and ghastliness made each historical story memorable and engaging.

The tales have now been brought to life by the Birmingham Stage Company (BSC) in visually spectacular theatrical performances, which you can enjoy this month in the Kingdom.

Following acclaimed productions of Terrible Tudors’, Vile Victorians, Awful Egyptians and Ruthless Romans, the BSC is currently performing Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain, the reenactment of historical tales from London.

The theatre company stops off in Bahrain as part of its worldwide tour and offers an opportunity for you to relive Britain’s most terrible tales. There will be three shows at the Cultural Hall. On October 13 there is one performance at 5pm, and two on October 14 at 9.30am and 11.30am.

Battles, murder and mayhem The production will animate stories from the 1,000 years of British history and you can expect to see famous British characters such as Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, Florence Nightingale and General Earl Haig.

Those watching will discover whether it’s easier to lose your heart or head to horrible Henry VIII, whether parliament will escape gunpowder Guy and the chance to peek inside a Georgian-era Crime School.

The stage production is the brainchild of Terry Deary, Neal Foster and Ciaran McConville. Terry is the author of the literary series and one of Britain’s best-selling authors of the last century. He has written close to 50 Horrible Histories books with sales of 25 million copies in 40 countries, and is the author of over 200 fiction and non-fiction books for young people.

The production is performed by Neal Foster and Alison Fitzjohn and comes directly from a 29-week sell-out season in London’s West End. The show’s set is created by Jackie Trousdale and the music is orchestrated by Matthew Scott.

E Call 39 616-858.

When? October 13-14 | Event? Theatrical performance | Venue? Cultural Hall

26 October 2012

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsthismonth When? Throughout October | Event? Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Venue? Various

Calendar of events When? October 3, 4, 5 Event? Fitness Classes Venue? Bodyline E Call 17 793-932.

When? October 5 Event? Harley Davidson Owners’ Group awareness ride Venue? Throughout the Kingdom E Visit www.harley-davidsonbahrain.com.

When? October 7 Event? Golf men’s night out Venue? Royal Golf Club E Call 17 750-777.

When? October 10 Event? Golf ladies’ night out Venue? Royal Golf Club E Call 17 750-777.

When? October 11 Event? Open day Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre E Call 17 612-576.

Think Pink, Save Lives If you don’t donate to charity, make up for it this month by raising money in aid of breast cancer awareness.

Worldwide, women, men and children take part in events throughout October to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All types of events are held to appeal to people of all ages and lifestyles and to encourage everyone to do their part.

Here in the Kingdom there is no shortage of choice, as our very own non-profit charity, Think Pink Bahrain, has once again worked tirelessly to put together a jam-packed schedule which incorporates numerous venues. Just remember to don your breast cancer ribbon and be sure to wear something (or everything) pink!

Get fit As fitness is one of the best defence mechanisms against developing breast cancer, it makes sense that it features heavily in the calendar of fund-raising events. Bodyline, World Beat Fitness Centre (WBFC) and Dessange have offered their facilities and staff members to teach classes to willing participants.

Both WBFC and Bodyline will run classes for members of the public, the proceeds of which will be gifted towards the cause.

28 October 2012

Dessange will be hosting a more rigorous form of exercise, for those who think they can handle it. Their ‘Party in Pink’ will include a three-hour spinning and zumba marathon — the perfect chance to work up a sweat in aid of a worthy cause.

For a more gentle form of exercise, you can opt for Bahrain City Centre’s fund-raising walk or if you feel you can brave the outdoors, sign up for the pink walkathon around Dohat Arad.

Golfers will be able to perfect their swing while getting involved as the Royal Golf Club is hosting two evenings of golfing. Men need not worry about being shown up, though, as ladies will play on a different night from the gents!

Be creative If you are more inclined towards an artistic way to help out, you can take the little ones and indulge in two ceramics-crafting days at the Kingdom’s most recognised outlets. Both Café Ceramique and Studio Ceramics will throw open their doors to support the cause.

Or if you aren’t afraid of the spotlight, stretch your vocal cords at JJ’s Irish Restaurant with a loud, not-always-in-tune but fun karaoke evening. Sing as loud as you can to make the cause known.

When? October 13 Event? Fundraising walk Venue? Bahrain City Centre E Visit www.bahraincitycentre.com.

When? October 15 Event? Karaoke Venue? JJ’s Irish Pub and Restaurant E Call 39 329-083.

When? October 20 Event? Party in pink Venue? Dessange E Call 17 713-999.

When? October 21 Event? Open day Venue? Café Ceramique E Call 17 583-500.

When? October 27 Event? Pick a heart Venue? Studio Ceramics E Call 17 599-026.

When? November 3 Event? Pink walkathon Venue? Dohat Arad E Call 39 688-619.

E Visit www.thinkpinkbahrain.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? Until October 20 | Event? Fall for Fashion campaign | Venue? Bahrain City Centre

BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE

Fall Fashion Fever As if the hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment outlets aren’t enough, the Kingdom’s largest shopping centre is offering even more incentive to visit this month.

30 October 2012

Put your most fashionable foot forward with Bahrain City Centre’s Fall for Fashion campaign. Celebrating the latest trends in shoes and handbags to complement your post-summer style, this fashion festival offers something for everyone including daily chances to win a shopping spree, a creative arts exhibition by students, and a charity fundraiser for an important cause.

Fashion lies at the heart of the campaign and at the centre of the activity is the mall’s glamorous display in the Central Galleria. Appropriately titled, ‘It’s all about Shoes & Bags’, this is an exquisite spread of the hottest luxury shoe and handbags on trend this fall and includes the attraction — a giant red shoe designed by up-and-coming talent Anas Younis. This shoe is part of the ‘aennis eunis’ brand and is available to buy in Saks Fifth Avenue.

For those doing some serious shopping this season, Bahrain City Centre will be giving away daily cash prizes of BD300 with a minimum spend of BD30 in one day during the campaign. What’s more, spend BD30 at any fashion store and you can double your chance to win. Don’t forget to collect your trivia card, with answers to be found at the mall’s shoe display in the Central Galleria for a chance to win a BD 3,000 shopping spree.

Other highlights include ‘The Most Creative Shoe Box’ competition, which will run from October 7-10. Students from

the Bahrain Bayan School will be given the chance to explore their artistic talents and decorate plain shoe boxes in any way they like.

Breast cancer awareness For those who want to take a different stride this month, Bahrain City Centre is encouraging residents in the community to walk for a cause with the second annual ‘Kick Up Your Heels’ walkathon on October 13, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Limited to 300 walkers, the 3km walk around the mall has previously proved successful with all funds raised towards Think Pink Bahrain, a local organisation dedicated to raising awareness of the disease. You can pick up your registration form at the customer service desk.

This year there will be more exciting prizes and rewards for everyone who participates, including a night’s stay for two at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre for the highest fundraiser, and a brunch for two at the hotel for the most creative costume.

With shoes, handbags, shopping sprees and community fun for everyone, Fall for Fashion at Bahrain City Centre is where you need to be to soak up the action this month.

E Call 17 177-771 or visit www.bahraincitycentre.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? October 1-31 | Event? Charity campaign | Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel

Small Box, Big Difference

Don’t miss this opportunity to lend a helping hand by participating in one of the biggest charity campaigns around the region.

Get into the spirit of charity this month with a special campaign, which returns for a second year. The ‘Box Appeal’ is a region-wide initiative aimed at helping those most in need.

Box Appeal asks people to offer financial assistance to expatriate labourers who may not be able to afford the simplest things. All you need to do is pick up a box from either the Diplomat Hotel or any DHL outlet and fill it with everyday essentials which many of us take for granted.

If you are unsure what to include, then inside the box there is a list of suggested items for you to consider. Once you’re finished, return the box to The Diplomat or DHL. Products that you donate might be inexpensive but could make a resounding difference to the lives of those in need.

Once the appeal is closed, the Helping Hands group, together with volunteers, will distribute the boxes.

Since the campaign started in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2008 more than 30,000 boxes have been handed out, raising the equivalent of BD300,000.

E Visit facebook.com/theboxappeal.

bystanderthismonth

Bizarre Lounge Opening The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre held an exclusive party to launch the hotel's Bizarre Lounge

Natalia & Nina

Francoise, Burak, Gizem, Natalia & Roza

Joseph, Josie & Natasha

32 October 2012

Maya & Snej

Burak & Gizem

Puneet, Rami & Ibrahim

Ibrahim & Natalia

Mohammed & Snej

Laura & Salman

DJ Monica Soldan

Harlequins

Erica & Dino

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? October 9 | Event? Motivational talk | Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel

Maximise Your Potential Improve your chances of success, personally or professionally, by attending this seminar presented by one of the world’s leading motivational speakers.

The Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail (BIHR) has invited motivational speaker Brian Tracy to conduct a single-day seminar to help us in both our personal and professional lives.

“We are very pleased to bring Brian Tracy to Bahrain,” says BIHR director Nigel Viegas. “Brian is renowned for his approach to setting goals and determining priorities in daily life situations.”

Over the last 30 years he has spoken at thousands of events and has worked with more than 1,000 organisations. His client portfolio reads like a who’s who of the business world and includes names such as IBM, Ford Motor Corporation, Federal Express, UBS, and Hewlett-Packard.

Brian has also written over 50 books about how to maximise performance and is regarded as one of the leading experts in this field around the world.

“While he is in Bahrain, Brian will share some of the best ideas, methods, strategies and techniques that have helped entrepreneurs to be successful,” adds Nigel. “Everyone who attends will be taught how to identify the three most important factors that influence their life and how to accomplish success and happiness.”

BIHR has organised many successful seminars in the past with names such as Ron Kaufman, Bob Urichuck, Robin Sharma and Allan Pease all having contributed their expertise for our benefit.

Brian Tracy

E Call 36 048-699 or 39 986-580 or visit www.bihr.com.bh.

bystanderthismonth

K Lounge Opening The K Hotel in Juffair hosted a reception for members of the media and guests to mark the opening of the hotel's K Lounge

Faisal Khalid Kanoo, Abdulaziz Jassim Kanoo & Khalid Kanoo at the ribbon cutting

Nabeel Kanoo, Salman Al Mahmeed, Faisal Kanoo & George

Abdulla Juma

Jaap Vaandrager, Suzy Kanoo, Faisal Kanoo, Sahar Juma & Wendy Vaandrager

Ron, Volker Mandlowsky, Ian McKie & Christophe Marziale

Doreen, Nabayit & Ayla

34 October 2012

Idris, Mo & Abdulla

Aqeel Raees & Fawzi Kanoo

Suresh & Monia

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

“ You are a rocket scientist, you just don’t know it yet! ”

Building 334, Road 109, Riyadh Avenue, Block 801, Isa Town 8:00 am - 1:00 pm 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Phone : 176 86466

Learn while you play

www.bahrainsciencecentre.com

Managed and operated by :

S T U D I O S

happeningsartsculture When? October 28 | Event? Concert | Venue? Indian School

When? October 1-31 Event? Competition Venue? Naqsh Gallery Don’t miss the finale of the Awtar stage performance competition.

E Call 39 932-411.

When? October 2-26 Event? Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery This collective exhibition displays the differing works of a group of artists.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? October 11 Event? Concert Venue? Indian School Get your Bollywood fix as the talented star Sunidhi Chauhan performs.

E Call 36 776-566.

Bollywood is Coming!

When? October 13- November 8 Event? Exhibition Venue? World Beat Café Marwa Al Khalifa will explore the qualities of women in this exhibit.

E Call 17 612-576.

Shreya Ghoshal

A singing sensation in every sense of the word, Shreya Ghoshal, India’s reigning melody queen, is all set to enthral audiences with her foot-tapping and contemporary numbers.

This month Bahrain welcomes two firsts: singer Shreya Ghoshal and the first time an Indian artist of this calibre, popularity and repute will perform in the Kingdom. What’s more, the mere announcement of the show on Facebook has attracted 10,000 likes — no small feat!

“The upcoming event is expected to be an entertaining and memorable one,” says organiser Ameer Ali. “With four National Film Awards and four Filmfare Awards to her credit, Ghoshal is one of the most awarded playback singers in recent times and this is an opportunity that both locals and expatriates will not want to miss.”

The Bollywood beauty is known for her incredibly strong voice and perfect pitching and will be performing her hit songs at the Indian School, along with her 17-member music troupe.

Thousands are expected to attend, meaning that tickets will sell out fast, so be sure to call and reserve yours soon!

A young talent with big dreams Shreya’s musical career has been magical so far, with a whole host of film scores, hit songs and personal appearances under her belt.

36 October 2012

As a child she received training in Hindustani classical music by Maheshchandra Sharma in Kota and won the children’s special episode of the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa contest on Zee TV. Ghoshal caught the attention of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali when she participated in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa for a second time, this time as an adult. In 2000, Bhansali offered her the opportunity to be the voice of Paro, the lead female character of the film ‘Devdas’ that was portrayed by Aishwarya Rai. Ghoshal sang five songs in the film. Her performance won the Filmfare Award for best female playback singer, as well as Filmfare’s RD Burman Award for new music talent. She also won the National Film Award for the song ‘Bairi Piya’.

The singer is also known for singing in many languages including Hindi, Malayalam, Bengali, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Punjabi and Tami. Her songs in the Malayalam film ‘Anwar’ became hits in Kerala and topped many charts for weeks.

In 2010, Ghoshal sang for the English independent film ‘When Harry Tries to Marry’.

Ghoshal has also been a judge for Star Voice of India-Chhote Ustaad with singer Kunal Ganjawala and composer Pritam and was one of the three judges in ‘X Factor India’.

When? October 14-20 Event? Workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Learn how to use design to transform your ideas into branding.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? October 21-November 3 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bin Matar House Bahraini contemporary artist Mariam Haji displays her latest pieces.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? October 27 Event? Costume making Venue? Café Ceramique This Halloween, why not have your kids make their own costumes?

E Call 17 583-500.

When? October 28 Event? Concert Venue? Indian School Indian playback singer gears up for a unique performance.

E Call 33 432-255.

E Call 33 432-255.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsartsculture

When? October 13-November 8 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? World Beat Café

Womanly Aspects Award-winning artist Marwa Rashid Al Khalifa will be exhibiting a collection her latest paintings this month. The show is an artistic portrayal of different qualities of women in a contemporary manner. The artist has used different mediums and her intention is for the viewer to relate to one of the aspects portrayed.

E Call 17 612-576.

When? October 2-26 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Albareh Art Gallery

A Friendly Gathering Albareh Art Gallery will inaugurate the autumn season with a brand live new group exhibition ‘Taqaseem IV’. Combining four mid-career artists who live in Bahrain and are best friends in real life, the exhibition features Ahmed Annan, Mohamed Al Mahdi, Hassan Al Sari and Jehan Saleh.

The concept started in 2010 with the first exhibition ‘Taqaseem I’ followed by ‘Taqaseem II’ in Dubai and with the third edition being held early this year in Jeddah. In this fourth edition, each artist will use a full gallery wall to display small-sized works arranged together to incorporate the full space of that wall.

Al Mahdi traces daily images of his recent trip to Morocco using the childish expression that he is so well known for.

Annan is still preoccupied with monitoring the movement of society and he is attentive to its daily tasks and activities.

Saleh will introduce her new technique of manipulating photographic images, that she has taken of different faces throughout her trips, with her paint brush. She developed this technique after her recent residency in Patras, Greece. Al Sari, with his interest in anthropology, will reveal new works based on his recent summer residency at Asilah in Morocco.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? October 21-November 3 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Bin Matar House

Bahraini artist Mariam Haji opens her latest exhibition ‘Premonition’ that will feature two canvases over four meters in height. The extraordinary works have been executed in minute detail in pencil and oil. The scale and

38 October 2012

When? October 11 | Event? Concert | Venue? Indian School

Life-size Sketch

execution were both inspired by Renaissance art yet have a uniquely contemporary twist.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a show of preparatory sketches and a video of the artist at work. The artist has most recently won the first prize in the Annual Fine Arts Exhibition held by the Ministry of Culture in Bahrain. E Call 17 322-549.

Bollywood Princess The Indian community in Bahrain will be spoiled for choice this month as another big name comes to town to perform. Out of the Box brings in a live Dhoom Machale concert with the much-loved Sunidhi Chauhan.

Sunidhi is a popular Indian playback singer best known for her Hindi film songs in Bollywood movies.

E Call 36 776-566.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happeningsclubssocieties When? October 11 | Event? BSPCA Fashion show | Venue? Al Fanar restaurant, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel

Fashion Fund-raiser Alison Coldridge The most fashionable evening of the year is upon us and it’s all taking place in the name of charity. So dig deep in your wallet and purchase a ticket to what promises to be a fabulous night out.

Although known as one of the Kingdom’s most prolific animal charities, the BSPCA is always in dire need of support, assistance and, most importantly, fundraising. The society, which is now in its 33rd year, rescues, shelters and re-homes countless animals a year and is entirely run by volunteers and donations.

This month, the society is hosting a fundraising event oozing glitz and glamour. After an absence of three years, the BSPCA’s fashion show returns under the theme of ‘Academy Awards’.

“Each year I decide on a theme and this year it’s all about the academy awards,” explains 11-time BSPCA fashion show producer Stephen Hershel. “The theme will be noticeable in all aspects of the event; from the food and the menu to the musical tracks used, which have won awards over the past 80 years of the Oscars.”

The large-scale event will feature approximately 30 backstage helping hands as well as 12 female and four male models, all exhibiting garments collected from the BSPCA’s thrift shop.

“There will be approximately 18 acts and the actual show will take a little over one hour,” Stephen outlines. “In addition

40 October 2012

to the actual modelling, we will have performances from Victoria’s School of Dance and The Elyown Dancers. Plus, there will be performances by soloist Anna Thompson-Hall and David and Sachi.”

Guests to this glamourous event will be able to indulge in a lavish three-course buffet with beverages, all included in ticket price of BD28 for members and BD30 for non-members.

“Once the evening is over, the garments modelled will be returned to the thrift shop where lucky shoppers will be able to snap them up,” says Joyce Graham, fund-raising coordinator at the BSPCA. “We encourage all guests to arrive at the fashion show ‘dressed to impress’ to coincide with the event’s theme.”

The money raised from the show will be put towards the BSPCA’s latest campaign; a humane programme that catches, neuters and releases stray dogs in Bahrain.

“By purchasing a ticket, you will not only enjoy a wonderful evening but will also help the society to solve Bahrain’s major stray animal problem. For every table of 12 sold, the BSPCA will neuter 72 dogs,” says Joyce.

Tickets are available on a first-come-first-served basis from the BSPCA thrift shop. “We have limited the sale of tickets to only 250 places so there will be no squeezing you in this year!

You need to act quickly to join us on the ‘red carpet’ and avoid disappointment,” Joyce notes.

Joyce Graham and Stephen Hershel

When? October 4 Event? Autumn show Venue? British Club Rod Stewart tribute act takes to the stage for the club’s annual show.

E Call 17 725-194.

When? October 5 Event? Charity dinner Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Take part in an evening of comedy, dance and great food for charity.

E Call 17 254-508 or 17 253-866.

When? October 11 Event? Theatre production Venue? British Club Enjoy a thrilling dinner performance of a Sherlock Holmes play.

E Call 17 725-194.

When? October 11 Event? Charity book fayre Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club Support animals in need while picking up some bargain books.

E Call 39 629-889.

When? October 11 Event? Fashion show Venue? Diplomat Radisson Blu Enjoy a fabulous night of fashion and glamour courtesy of the BSPCA. E Call 17 593-479.

E Call 17 593-479.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningskidsteens When? Throughout October | Event? Various workshops, discussions and activities | Venue? Bahrain Science Centre

Bahrain Science Centre October events When? October 4 Event? Nutrition talk A doctor who specialises in nutrition will give a talk on the benefits of eating healthily.

When? October 5 Event? Healthy cooking class Kids will select ingredients from which to cook a healthy meal.

When? October 11 Event? First Aid training The little ones will learn what to do in case of an accident or emergency.

BAHRAIN SCIENCE CENTRE

Bones, Brains and Brilliance Show your little ones the fun side of learning by taking them to the workshops, activities and debates at Bahrain’s only science centre.

After the amazing visitor response in the last few months where more than 3,500 visitors enjoyed the science, art and craft workshops, the Bahrain Science Centre has officially opened its doors now to all families and children.

This month, the centre will be continuing to host a series of debates and activities, after adults and kids flocked in during September to take part in the theme of ‘Marine’.

Getting visitors’ brains in motion with a series of exciting activities, the centre will host various human body-themed debates, science-themed art activities, static electricity demonstrations, art workshops, science shows, animal-themed storytelling and science talks. Kids will be educated in all sorts of science-related topics and will test their limits with the option to dissect fish and eyes as well as learning about static electricity and other similar subjects.

Each week there will also be an ‘Experiment of the Week’ in which kids will complete their own experiments under the supervision of a science teacher. Visitors will additionally be able to experience the ‘Scary Skeletons’ exhibition led by the team on a torchlight safari at the centre.

42 October 2012

“Competitive debate is a challenging and highly rewarding activity for most who become involved in it. The majority of people avoid public speaking, and debates provide a nonthreatening environment to develop public speaking skills for the future. The Bahrain Science Centre encourages building these essential life skills in the youth and children,” said assistant undersecretary of community development, Khalid Ishaq, from Bahrain’s Ministry of Social Development.

Boosting children’s skills The debates will help to enhance public speaking skills, build friendships among teammates, and develop research and analytical skills, often characteristics that high-level business professionals possess. It also encourages listening and note-taking skills that help students to learn faster and obtain better grades.

“We are delighted with the enormous success of the Science Centre and we look forward to further successful events in the upcoming months at the Centre,” adds Khalid.

Currently operated and managed by MTE Studios, the Bahrain Science Centre is the first of its kind in the country and all the displays are designed to be educational. Schools in Bahrain started exploring the new Bahrain Science Centre by appointment prior to its official launch in late March 2012.

E Call 34 360-631 or visit www.bahrainsciencecentre.com.

When? October 12 Event? X-rays workshop An instructive class examining how an x-ray works and what it achieves.

When? October 19 Event? Dental care workshop Come along to a talk presented by a dentist with lots of entertaining activities.

When? October 25 Event? Kids’ obesity talk Children can learn the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and not over-eating.

When? October 26 Event? Health workshop Come along to this workshop to measure your blood pressure, sugar and your haemoglobin.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningssportsrecreation When? October 12 | Event? Sprint triathlon | Venue? Amwaj Marina

Testing Your Endurance

When? October 5 onwards Event? Indoor football tournament Venue? Seef Mall Cheer on friends or take part in this challenge to win the Seef Cup. E Call 38 385-917 or 38 384-785.

Alison Coldridge In a month where cancer awareness is ripe, a testing sporting challenge will raise money for this worthy cause whilst simultaneously offering friends and families a fun day out.

Dedicated charity fundraiser Adnan Alqassab is holding yet another sporting event to raise cash for those in need. The Bahrain Triathlon Challenge 2012 consists of three parts, each more difficult than the last, spread over three months. First up this month is the Sprint Triathlon, taking place at Amwaj Marina, which will include a 750 m swim, followed by a 20 km bike ride and concluding with a 5 km run.

On November 9 will be the second race, the Olympic Triathlon, to be held at Durrat Al-Bahrain. This triathlon will be slightly more challenging with a 1.5 km swim to start, then a 40 km bike ride and finally a 10 km run. The three-part event will conclude with the Half Ironman Triathlon on December 14.

This final event will be the most difficult of the trio, and will feature a 1.9 km swim, a 90 km bike ride and a 21.1 km run.

“Anyone aged 16 and over is welcome to come along and take part in any of the three separate events, although we cater to all ages and both genders with additional activities for children and spectators,” explains Adnan. “I am expecting between 300-450 participants to be involved overall, as there will additionally be a walkathon occurring on each race day,” he adds.

There are high hopes for the speed and endurance of those who will take part. “I would expect the elite to complete the first race in 55 minutes, the second in one hour and 25 minutes and the third and final triathlon in three hours and a half,” outlines Adnan.

44 October 2012

When? October 4 onwards Event? Rugby matches Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club The ultimate man’s sport kicks off this month on home turf.

E Visit www.bahrainrfc.net.

When? October 11-13 Event? Basketball tournament Venue? Batelco Staff Centre Shoot hoops in teams of four at Batelco’s basketball championship.

E Call 80 008-884.

Adnan Alqassab

Participation in the challenge costs BD9 per athlete or BD10 per team. Each attendee will receive a t-shirt and the winners will be awarded with trophies and medals. Participants are encouraged to garner their sponsorship from friends, family and supporters to raise as much money as possible for Adnan’s chosen charities.

“All of the money raised will go towards supporting kids with cancer,” states Adnan. “I have been a member of the Bahrain Cancer Society for the last 13 years and have since organised numerous sporting events to support this worthy cause as well as others.”

Adnan is somewhat of a sportsman himself. He holds the Bahrain record for the ‘Ultramarathon’ event of 1994 — running two marathons in one day — and he additionally has completed ten marathons, 15 half-marathons, 40 10 km runs and numerous shorter distance runs.

“One of my greatest achievements was scaling Mount Everest in 2006 and I took the first Bahraini expedition to the South Pole in December 2003,” he recalls.

When? October 12 Event? Sprint triathlon Venue? Amwaj Marina All sportsmen should compete in this three-part triathlon challenge.

E Call 39 132-102.

When? October 14-26 Event? Football tournament Venue? Indian Club A five-a-side football tournament will show who the real ‘stars’ are.

E Call 39 643-187 or 36 468-432.

When? October 15-20 Event? Tennis championship Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club Girls and boys can show off their swings at this Zain tournament.

E Call 17 729-561.

When? October 16 onwards Event? Cricket Tournament Venue? Indian Club Enjoy the cooler weather as cricket fever takes off once again.

E Call 36 367-143.

E Call 39 132-102.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Cocoon Lounge Re-Opening Party A party was held to mark the official re-opening of Cocoon Lounge Bahrain at the Juffair Grand Hotel. International sensation DJ Sabrina Terence from Germany gave party people a night to remember

DJ Sabrina Terence

DJ Thomas & Antony

Imran, Gautam & Purnita

Abdur, Tonio, Carlo & Duane

Madan & Himanshu

Sari, Kirsty, Madan & Natalia

Marise & friends

Amy, Kath, Lucy, Emily, Nicole & Sofia

Ear, Antony & Rajeev

Danielle, Erica & Danae

Hisham, Beld, Osama & Precy

Shanay, Lequisha & Gurtrude

Amy & Daniel

Alex & Irina's Party Alex & Irina hosted a party for a number of their friends to celebrate their return to Bahrain after their summer vacation. The party was held at their residence in Reef Island

Alex Turk, Irina, Anna & Diana

46 October 2012

Alex & Irina

Hilton, Indira & Araalbert

Mohammed & Karim

Alex, Irina, Olivier & Rodolphe

Michele & Irina

Alex & Khalid Turk

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Club Buffalo Second Anniversary Party Club Buffalo at the Ramee California Hotel, Juffair held a party to celebrate the outlet's second anniversary last month

Shantharam & Ashalatha Shetty

Shantharam & Ashalatha Shetty with staff

Bryan, Shantharam, Ashalatha & Antony cut the cake

Sandeep with band members

Shaina, Katie & Shane

Sharon, Steve & Linzee

Antony, Bryan, Ashalatha & Shantharam

Rosherl & Errol

Jackie, Jhen & Brandon

Tanya & Amanda

Sheila & friends

Ceara & Ashley

Shane & Liandra

48 October 2012

Linzee & Sammy

Randall & Zack

Marissa & friends

Mo, Sama & Daniel

Justin & Amanda

Varghese, Bryan & Antony

Alex & Tyler

J & Marria

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diplomatictalk

Exploring Opportunities xxxxx Growth may have slowed with the impact of the international financial crisis, but China’s GDP this year is expected to grow by over eight per cent

H.E. Li Chen

Sino-Arab relations are evolving into a new era, building on a time-honoured friendship to consolidate ties further in an age of rapid globalisation.

No country has accomplished so much and undergone such sweeping change as China in its last three decades of reform.

The People’s Republic is marking its 63rd National Day with pride, even as it continues to hold the entire world in thrall with its ‘Oriental Miracle’.

Since the birth of the Republic, China’s economic aggregate has multiplied around 200 times, accounting for 10 per cent of world economy.

“Growth may have slowed with the impact of the international financial crisis, but China’s GDP this year is expected to grow by over eight per cent,” says His Excellency Li Chen, Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain. “This will contribute significantly to the global economic recovery.”

China is increasingly looking to consolidate its centuries-long relationship with the Arab world and Ambassador Chen exemplifies the earnestness of these efforts.

Fluent in Arabic, His Excellency fondly remembers his childhood years in Egypt as well as postings in Jordan, Palestine and Syria. He draws parallels between the Chinese and Arab cultures, with their shared ethos of warm hospitality, respect for the elders and love for young children.

Trade route Bahrain and China had traded for many decades before formal diplomatic relations were established, notes Ambassador Chen. China ranks among Bahrain’s top three trading partners, with bilateral trade hovering around US$1.2 billion. This number is small considering China’s potential and he hopes the momentum will continue to grow in the coming decades.

50 October 2012

“With the Bahraini government attaching more importance on infrastructure such as roads, housing and railway to meet the requirements of citizens as well as the emphasis on the oil and gas industry, we truly believe we can achieve more potential in these fields through mutual efforts,” he says.

Numerous Chinese brands have successfully made inroads into the Bahrain market in recent years, gaining visibility through their quality, favourable service and relatively cheaper price. Motor brands such as Chery, BYD, MD and Great Wall have intensified the competition in the locomotives segment, while Sany is a preferred brand in machinery. Haier and Media are now noted brands in household appliances, while Huawei has gone a step further by setting up its regional headquarters in Bahrain.

An ambitious project for a Chinese-themed retail development is being drawn up in Muharraq. The proposed Dragon City is spearheaded by Kuwait Finance House (KFH) and China Middle East Investment and Trade Promotion Centre FZCO (Chinamex).

Marketed and managed by Chinamex, the Dragon City will be a large-scale trade platform with facilities for product exhibition, retail and wholesale. Built along Chinese themes, the markets will house Chinese enterprises and businessmen who seek to sell their products and services in Bahrain.

Cultural connect Cultural and social exchange and cooperation is an active aspect of bilateral relations between China and Bahrain.

In March 2012, the second Chinese Arts Festival of the China-Arab Cooperation Forum was held successfully in Bahrain. In April, the Embassy presented 600 Chinese books on history, culture and folk literature to the National Library in Bahrain.

“We’re in talks with the Bahrain officials to develop a ‘Chinese book corner’ at the National Library. Each year, we offer full scholarships for Bahraini youth to study at universities and colleges in China, presenting more than 20 training opportunities in various fields. We hope that along with this deepening friendship, we can build more channels of practical co-operation,” notes Ambassador Chen.

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businessthismonth When? October 16-18 | Event? HRM Summit | Venue? Bahrain Convention Centre

Human Resources Management Summit 2011

Effective Resourcing Human resources leaders from around the world will converge this month in an event dedicated to human capital management.

As businesses continue to find new and innovative ways to stay ahead and compete effectively, attracting and retaining key talent within an organisation becomes ever more crucial.

The human resources profession is shifting from people transaction functions to critical business capability that creates a competitive advantage; something that will be explored this month at the Human Resources Management Summit 2012.

Attendees will be invited to learn and reinforce their views on how global leads effectively manage their human resources.

You will be invited to explore the major shifts affecting organisations today and in the future and how to recognise and respond to these shifts.

“At the summit, professionals will explore the major shifts affecting organisations today and in the future. They will not only learn first-hand how to recognise and respond to these shifts, but also be able to network with colleagues who are successfully navigating these areas of development,” says M A Sridhar, CEO of the organising company Roshcom.

The event will be conducted in a classroom style, providing attendees with an exclusive opportunity to benefit from a vast spectrum of experience in a niche group of peers, facilitating more in-depth, high-level discussions and debate.

Categorised into different sections, the most demanding Also this month

human resources development and management issues will be covered. These sections cover a number of critical topics such as human resources strategy, rewards management, talent management, skills development, employee engagement and various other global best practices.

Each section will then be followed by a panel discussion comprising leading international experts in their respective fields and will enable delegates to join in and participate within the panel.

“This year’s summit addresses this core issue of ‘Putting the Human back in Human Capital’ and aims to discuss human capital development strategies at an individual, organisational and at a national level,” continues the CEO. All participants should leave the summit with a better knowledge of how best to motivate and encourage colleagues and employees to perform at their best. Those who attend will realise what employees expect from an employer, such as career development and continued employment, and will help the company succeed by empowering the staff.

A one-day workshop will follow the summit focusing on the strategies ideal for human resource practitioners in the region.

Titled ‘CIPD: learning and talent development’ the workshop will be presented by Dr John McGurk. Practitioners attending this critical workshop will receive a timely grounding on every key aspect of learning and talent development delivery and strategy.

When? October 6-10 Event? Conference and exhibition Venue? Gulf Hotel Conference will explore the non-destructive testing industry’s issues.

E Call 38 726-209.

When? October 7 Event? Workshop Venue? Crowne Plaza Learn how you can increase your business’s competitive advantage.

E Call 17 000-301.

When? October 15-17 Event? Forum Venue? InterContinental Regency Hotel Discover how green energy can benefit the Kingdom.

E Call 17 754-757.

When? October 16-18 Event? Summit Venue? Crowne Plaza Industry leaders gather to share ideas on HR management strategies.

E Call 17 365-044.

When? October 17-18 Event? Forum Venue? Gulf Hotel Senior decision-makers analyse the insurance industry.

E Visit www.middleeasttakaful. megaevents.net.

E Call 17 365-044.

54 x Interview

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October 2012 53

businessinterview

Ahead of the Curve xxxxx We relooked at our efficiencies and made our operations very lean. We’re now richer by what we learnt and have come out much stronger names such as George from the Walmart Group, Calzedonia, Intimissimi and Tezenis out of Italy, Pepe Jeans, Superdry, GAP in some countries and I AM. However, the retailer is cautious about introducing new names in Bahrain.

“A majority of our GCC customers have started to revisit Bahrain and we’re definitely looking at launching some of the new brands here. But we’ll be very selective in what we open in 2013 because we want to do it right. We’ll have to cherry-pick the best brands and get the best locations possible,” he observes.

This cautious optimism extends to his plans for the food and beverage segment as well.

“Bahrain’s food and beverage market is very competitive, but there’s always place for new and revolutionary concepts, offering different cuisines and impeccable service. We’re very optimistic about this segment and will be soon launching Argo Tea, the contemporary tea café brand that has taken the US market by storm,” he notes.

Pierre Fourie

Simi Kamboj The retail landscape has undergone sweeping changes, but perceptible gains can yet be made by players best prepared to deal with the changing climate.

54 October 2012

Guarded consumer behaviour and lack of positive cues has meant that the retail industry in Bahrain has navigated some very choppy waters over the past year.

As a leading retailer in the region, Lebanon-based Azadea Group has weathered the storm well. Fashion, accounting for 80 per cent of the group’s brand portfolio in Bahrain, has proved the most resilient line of business.

Country manager Pierre Fourie believes there’s further room for growth.

“Anyone can sail the ship in calm waters,” says Pierre, referring to his strategy since he took over Azadea’s Bahrain operations in February last year. “We relooked at our efficiencies and made our operations very lean. We’re now richer by what we learnt and have come out much stronger.”

Azadea has had to close down brands, such as Prenatal across the GCC market, attributing the misadventure to the choice of store locations rather than the brands themselves.

Opportunities within the retail sector now lies in refreshing portfolios by bringing new and exciting brands into the market, Pierre feels. The group has added quite a few to its roster, with

Talent retention High employee turnover has long been a norm in the retail sector; it was only exacerbated last year by the political environment.

Pierre concedes that finding replacements for expatriate managerial staff that quit at the peak of last year’s unrest has been a challenge. With a view to grooming Bahraini youth as ‘employees of choice’ in rewarding careers in the retail sector, Azadea has introduced a retail talent programme in collaboration with Tamkeen.

The year-long programme will see the recruitment of 60 Bahrainis in three batches; they will then undergo technical retail training in addition to on-the-job training, designed to transform them into model retail personnel. The project is expected to boost Azadea’s localisation ratios from 24 per cent to around 35 per cent.

“We aim to create the right culture and environment for development of employees. Our Bahraini store managers are our success stories,” notes Pierre.

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businessinterview

xxxxx We’re redefining the concept of hospitality by introducing technology-driven solutions that make service efficient and enjoyable for guests staying at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Salvatore Romano

Grand Aspirations Simi Kamboj A review of the latest Ramee-managed hotel confirms what one has suspected; the group is keen to redefine its image and set new benchmarks in the hospitality sector.

56 October 2012

Be prepared to be reintroduced to the Ramee brand as the group opens its flagship hotel in Bahrain by the end of the year.

An ivory-coloured tower opposite the Seef Mall, the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa is the group’s first five-star offering not only in Bahrain, but in the whole of GCC. Having perfected the winning formula in the mid-segment hotel market, Ramee’s foray into the luxury segment is attracting attention.

General manager Salvatore Romano is aware that all eyes will be on him soon.

“When we decided to enter the luxury segment after over two decades’ experience behind us, we wanted people to spot the difference. We wanted to bring the latest in global luxury concepts to this property,” says Salvatore.

The challenge then lay in repositioning the brand, developing and implementing newer standards across the board with a team of international experts.

At 24 plus storeys, the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa is the one of the tallest hotels in Seef. Guests at the hotel will probably have the largest rooms in Bahrain, with an average room size of 46 square metres. In room-frills such as remote-controlled curtains, LED televisions and shaving counters in bathrooms and Bvlgari bath amenities are all meant to spell the ultimate luxury to hotel guests.

“We’re redefining the concept of hospitality by introducing technology-driven solutions that make service efficient and enjoyable for guests staying at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa,” promises Salvatore.

For instance, the hotel will not deliver newspapers manually to guests in rooms. Rather, guests will be able to access the Internet and read newspapers online on the interactive LED televisions in their rooms.

The pièce de résistance, however, is Ruka, the Japanese fusion restaurant and lounge on the 24th floor that offers breathtaking sea views all around. The lounge is exclusively serviced by a high-speed elevator that will have only one stop.

Salvatore is himself an industry veteran with over 25 years in the hospitality industry in premium hotel chains such as Mövenpick, Accor and IHG as well as luxury hotels such as L’Hotel Bahrain and the former Banyan Tree Hotel and Spa. He is not perturbed by influx of new five-star entering the local hospitality sector, but believes that competition will breed innovation among the players.

“A hotel is defined by the ambience it creates and the level of services offered. Our chairman, Raj Shetty, and group general manager, Shantaram Shetty, have put their soul into this property. Ultimately, our service will speak for itself,” he feels.

The hotel logo has been modified for a cleaner and crisper look, in keeping with the newest brand offering. The Grand, located in Seef, is only the stepping stone to the group’s wider ambitions of developing a chain of luxury hotels in the GCC. More of the luxury hotels will be rolled across Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the coming year.

Until then, the Grand in Seef will remain the cherry on the Ramee cake.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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• 160 HP Turbo Engine • Panoramic Windscreen • Premium Bracelet Leather Seats • 18” Brisbane Alloy Wheels • Rear and Front Parking Sensors with Space Gap Measurement System

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bystanderthismonth

Bushido Friday Brunch Bushido in the Seef District played host to a number of guests to mark the launch of the outlet's Friday brunch

Julia, Eric, Marie, Sophie, Nicolas & Alexia

Ellissa, Natasha, Michelle & Lalit

Michelle, Lalit & Rahul

Luke, Leo & Ellissa

Sharon & Mina

Rijoy, Kate, Agnes & Mo

Marise

Tayla, Kayla & Lily

Sophie, Dara & Gino

Louise & Emma

Pippa & Kat

Martha & Laura

The Kempinski 1st Anniversary Brunch The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre played host to a number of guests to celebrate its first anniversary with a celebration Brunch at the hotel's Saveur outlet last month

Dania with Barney

58 October 2012

Sander & Maya

Kids with Barney

Markus, Stefano & Sander

Sandeep & Palash

Mariam, Nesrin, Malak & Lamia

Nada & Kareem

Mariam, Nesrin, Malak & Lamia

Marwa & Tarek

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destinationreport

Madinah Al Munawarah Not far from Jeddah lies Madinah Al Munawarah: the ‘radiant city’. Only muslims are permitted to entre this historic city — as the second holiest in Islam there is much to see.

Prophet Muhammad’s influence One of the most prominent sites to visit in this city is the sacred resting place of Prophet Muhammad. His tomb is joined by three others: that of his daughter, Fatima; Abu Bakr, the first caliph (a spiritual leader of Islam) and father of his wife; and the second caliph, Omar, a tomb that has been burned and reconstructed twice.

Madinah Al Munawarah is historically noteworthy as Prophet Muhammad’s home after his migration from Mecca; he, himself, renamed the city. The Islamic calendar is based on this emigration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers to the city of Madinah, which marks the start of the Hijri year 622 CE, called Hijra.

Significant places of worship The city is home to the three oldest houses of worship in Islam.

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is the largest and is commonly known as ‘the Prophet’s Mosque’; many muslims come to pray at this smaller version of the mosque at Mecca. The other two are Quba Mosque, the first mosque noted in Islam history, and Masjid al-Qiblatain, which marks where the qibla (direction of prayer) was switched to Mecca.

A religious journey Many millions of muslims visit Madinah Al Munawarah. They pray before the tomb of the mosque of the Prophet, the

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Al-Masjid al-Nabawi and believe that one prayer offered before the sacred tomb equals a thousand prayers uttered in regular mosques. It’s a journey that many muslims are required to take at least once in their lifetime.

Stunning architecture Visually, Madinah Al-Munawarah is beautiful. The city is contained within high walls, about 30 to 40 feet tall, giving an oval shape.

Entry and exit is through four decorative gates, the most exquisite of which is the Egyptian gate — the Bab-al-Salam.

This district rests on the most fertile part of the Hejaz region, providing picturesque view of hills and mountains. Beyond Madinah Al-Munawarah’s walls, you can see the suburbs lined with beautiful gardens on both its western and southern sides.

Nearby cultural sites Just 700 metres above the city, from the Al Harra Mountains, you can witness the breathtaking views of Madinah Saleh and Al Ula. This site is notable for being the location where muslims believe Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation of the Qu’ran from God (Allah) through the angel Jibreel.

Also close to the city, just five km away, is a site of natural beauty — the Elephant Rock. Here, the sandstorms over thousands of years have carved and created this towering structure.

October 2012 59

A Bright StArt The one-stop answer to morning hunger pangs, SEVERINâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;S Breakfast Range includes a kettle, egg boiler and a toaster, all available in contemporary colours and finishes.

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germanysupplement

Germany in

October 2012

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month

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Germany In Bahrain October 2012 61

The team Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com

contents

Bahrain This Month • germany in bahrain • october 2012

Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editors Alison Coldridge Elma Bartholomew Staff Writer Maryam Toorani

64

Expanding Horizons

66

Iconic Statues

68

Medical Masters

Contributors James Claire (dining)

H.E. Sabine Taufmann explains the relationship between the two countries that goes much further than the trade in goods and services. It has deep roots.

Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr. Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa

More than a friendly animal, Buddy Bears are a symbol of unification, expressed through art. We’ll soon have our very own ‘bear’ on display.

Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Sales Manager Mayukh Majumdar Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Shani Davel Circulation Manager Fawaz Al Balooshi Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr. Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

70

Motoring Giants

73

Consulting Partners

77

Stylish Creations

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

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

Precision engineering is not just a hard skill-set mastered by the Germans. Soft skills, such as those in medical services are equally precise, as the likes of the German Orthopaedic Hospital, the German Skin Care Centre and the Vital Aesthetic Clinic demonstrate.

When you talk about luxury, state-of-the-art motor vehicles, brands such as BMW, Mercedes and Porsche instantly spring to mind.

p2M Berlin might not be the most well known of German brands, but their engineering experience has made its mark in the Kingdom.

From race circuits to the kitchen, we’ve probably all got something German we treasure, whether it is a pair of Maybach sunglasses or a Severin or Miele home appliance.

• Views expressed in this magazine by journalists

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

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

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

62 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

commercial inde x Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes)...................................... 65 Behbehani Motors (Porsche)......................................... 67 Euro Motors (BMW)........................................................ 2 German Skin Care Centre.............................................. 75

German Orthopaedic Hospital....................................... 69 p2M Berlin..................................................................... 73 Vital Aesthetic Clinic..................................................... 76 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Severin/Miele).................... 60/63

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germanysupplement

Expanding Horizons BTM: What are your thoughts on the occasion of German National Day? Sabine Taufmann: On the occasion of the German National Day we are celebrating the reunification of Germany, this year the 22nd anniversary. This date is an occasion to remember what we have achieved, to remember with gratitude and pride who we are and where we have come from, but also to look forward together. We know how precious national unity is and how difficult to achieve. Eighty-four percent of Germans said they believed national unification after more than four decades of division had been the right decision, despite a lingering economic gap between East and West.

As a little symbol for this, we have brought a ‘Buddy Bear’ from Berlin. [See separate article] BTM: In terms of trade, what do the figures indicate?

Sabine Taufmann: Germany is Bahrain’s most important trading partner within in the European Union, with imports to the Kingdom at Euro 480 million in 2011, an increase of 36 per cent from three years ago. Bahrain exports around Euro 50 million to Germany, with the percentage of manufactured goods taking an increasing share of this total.

H.E. Sabine Taufmann

Bahrain and Germany celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations in 2012; we talk to the German ambassador in the Kingdom, H.E. Sabine Taufmann, for her views on this milestone.

64 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

BTM: How do you assess the relationship between Bahrain and Germany as we mark this 40th anniversary?

Sabine Taufmann: Forty years of diplomatic ties between our two countries underline the long-term relationship between Germany and Bahrain that go far beyond the exchange of goods and services but also extends to intellectual, cultural and political exchange.

The strength of that relationship can be seen in the frequency of our interaction. His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa visited Berlin in November last year, and our foreign ministers met four times.

Furthermore, I feel very satisfied about the visit of a delegation of female members of the Bahraini Parliament and Shura Council in March this year, in Berlin, and of German Parliamentarians in June in Bahrain to better understand the political situation in Bahrain.

BTM: What advantage does Bahrain offer to potential German companies?

Sabine Taufmann: Bahrain has an important strategic location.

It is well-connected by air to all countries in the region.

However, what makes Bahrain special is the possibility to register a company without a local partner. While we still encourage German companies to cooperate with local partners, they are not under pressure to do so and can base partnerships on mutual benefit. The level of bureaucracy in Bahrain is low, and there is lots of support from the Government and Tamkeem, in the area of employee training.

BTM: On the tertiary education front, how is Germany promoting itself to students in the Gulf?

Sabine Taufmann: The courses taught in English by German universities are numerous. It is now possible to complete even first-degree programmes in English, not to mention the abundance of graduate studies and the numerous postgraduate programmes. Mastering the German language is not a prerequisite any more to study in Germany, but useful for daily life.

More than 250,000 foreign students and graduates are enrolled at German universities; 11.5 per cent of our students come from abroad. Germany is among the four most attractive countries of higher education and research in the world.

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

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

germanysupplement

Universal Unity In celebration of the relationship between the Kingdom and Germany, an international symbol of peace comes to Bahrain this month.

In commemoration of Germany’s National Day, on October 3, the German Embassy of Bahrain has brought a Buddy Bear from Berlin. Part of a worldwide campaign, these life-size figurines are present in countries all over the globe, acting as a symbol of peace, international understanding and tolerance.

The Buddy Bear campaign is similar to the local WihdaWahda initiative. You will have seen the large camels situated around Seef Mall, each painted with a different design.

The Kingdom’s version has been temporarily passed to the University College of Bahrain’s graphic design department. The students have been involved in a competition to select an appropriate design for the bear. The winning design will then be transferred onto the two metre-tall figure.

The bear will then be unveiled at the German National Day reception for all to admire, and will take up permanent residence at the Embassy to mark 40 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Uniting the world First developed by Klaus and Eva Herlitz, with sculptor Roman Strobl, the phenomenon has travelled internationally and spread a message of national unity among cultures and religions.

The first Buddy Bears were seen on Berlin’s streets in 2001 and today the campaign has evolved into an international art exhibition titled ‘United Buddy Bears’.

Now numbering 143 bears, they have been exhibited in 24 exhibitions on five continents in locations such as Hong Kong, Istanbul, Tokyo, Sydney and Cairo.

bystanderthismonth

Risk Mitigation & Crisis Management Seminar ATTA in association with Berlitz organised a Risk Mitigation & Crisis Management Seminar at the Gulf Hotel's Awal Ballroom. Bert Van Walbeck was the facilitator of the one-day seminar that was attended by 150 participants from companies in Bahrain and the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The seminar covered 7 different topics and 4 case studies related to crisis management

Bert Van Welbeck

Mohammed Buzizi & Bert Van Welbeck

Layla & Hamad

Barreto & Anil

Cynthia, Ali Sulaybikh, Manaf Al Anni, Mohammed Buzizi, Bert Van Welbeck & Abbas

66 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

Hisham & Abbas

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germanysupplement

GERMAN ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITAL

Certified Excellence One medical facility in the Kingdom strives to be the best. Exemplary European professionals attend to any array of orthopaedic issues.

68 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

While there is no lack of hospitals in the Kingdom, not all facilities can label themselves a ‘centre of excellence’.

However, through a combination of world-class orthopaedic and rehabilitation services, two state-of-the-art operating theatres and attentive and friendly staff, the German Orthopaedic Hospital (GOH) proudly claims this title.

In operation since 2010, the hospital has gone to great lengths to help promote Bahrain as the new medical tourism destination in the Middle East. GOH offers patients the quality of care that they would expect to receive in Europe, without travelling that far.

All of the hospital’s seven doctors are either German or European, and uniquely each reside full-time in Bahrain, rather than working here for a few months at a time as a number of the Kingdom’s foreign medical professionals do. As a result, the doctors establish relationships with their patients, offering a high standard of care and satisfaction. Similarly, all the nurses at the hospital have been individually selected for their skills and have years of experience.

Naturally, the founding doctor is indeed of German nationality himself. Together with various governmental institutes, the establishment of GOH was made possible by Professor Dr Heinz Roettinger’s efforts in building such a five-star facility.

From day one the hospital has attended to the injuries of athletes such as the players on Bahrain’s national teams.

The hospital will assist with the full spectrum of orthopaedic problems, including hip replacements, spine and shoulder surgery, trauma care, knee replacements, treatments of fractures and other injuries. Additionally, physiotherapy is conducted for ailments such as arthritis management, kinesis taping, lymph drainage, and back and neck rehabilitation.

GOH is situated on the third floor of the Gulf Diabetes Specialist Centre, where patients receive each and every step of their treatment course, from the diagnosis, to surgery and rehabilitation. The hospital boasts five consulting rooms available, 16 in-patient beds and two operating theatres, in addition to a patient lounge and physiotherapy rooms for both men and women. E Call 17 239-988.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanysupplement

A Marque Apart EURO MOTORS

The world’s best-selling premium car, the BMW 3 Series blends BMW’s style and invention to deliver a vehicle with its own distinctive power, charisma and character.

70 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

During the course of more than three and a half decades the face of the BMW 3 Series, has constantly evolved. Designers have managed to incorporate dynamics, innovation and aesthetics into a harmonious, modern and future-oriented overall concept, while at the same time preserving the car’s traditional values.

As a result, each BMW 3 Series has retained its unmistakable brand identity and can be identified as a BMW at the very first glance. However, the roots of the car date back to the 1960s when BMWs had already developed a characteristic profile.

With a notchback body design, front-mounted engines and rear-wheel drive, a basic principle was established back then (BMW 1500/2000) that still prevails to this very day. With the arrival of the BMW 1600 in 1966, the two-door 02 Series, which produced such famous models as the 1600ti or the 2002ti, was launched on to the automotive market and eventually replaced by the BMW 3 Series.

The presentation of the first BMW 3 Series in July 1975 marked the beginning of one of the most remarkable success stories in BMW history. Although the two-door sedan bore a strong resemblance to the BMW 5 Series introduced in 1972, the market witnessed the launch of an entirely new vehicle with compact dimensions and a sporting character.

The predominant design feature of the front end was also the

brand’s characteristic symbol, which was clearly identifiable even from a distance — the BMW kidney grille.

1975–1983 The design of the first BMW 3 Series is characterised by large windows, a distinctive wedge shape and, of course, BMW’s brand-typical face, the front end being dominated by the kidney grille vividly protruding from the radiator cover to continue up slightly scoop-shaped along the bonnet to the windscreen.

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1982–1993 In 1982, the second generation was a worthy successor. As a result of a sensitively-enhanced design and optimised aerodynamics the new model quickly gained a following. The 35mm increase in track width also contributed towards the sedan’s distinctively powerful look. The body appeared smoother and rounder, the sleek front end being the result of extensive wind tunnel tests.

styling strategy and the progressive design gained the highest level of recognition, resulting in the BMW 3 Series winning the ‘World Car of the Year’ award in New York.

Although the car made only a moderate leap forward, it stood out as a result of the reconfigured front end. With the double kidney grille and dual headlights curved at the top, it exhibited the typical front of a modern BMW — a focused facial expression.

1990–1997 In 1990, the time had apparently come to replace the original BMW 3 Series with an exceedingly elegant successor model. In an entirely newly-conceived sports sedan the dimensions were increased. Besides the slim silhouette, the smooth front end of the new model was immediately evident, as the double headlights were now conjointly mounted behind a glass cover.

In addition to dynamic lines and a distinctive wedge shape, the significantly lower bonnet and raised rear end defined this model. This car had virtually nothing in common with its predecessor but the family resemblance was still recognisable.

2012 The success story continues with the sixth generation of the world’s best-selling premium car. This model is the first BMW to be available with three different line options — modern, sport and luxury.

The three distinctive design personalities for the exterior and interior enable customers to choose among a number of exclusive finishes and equipment variants to suit their taste.

The new 3 Series interprets the classic design features of the 1960s but with a new lease on life. The new powerful design elements include a new BMW face, with flat headlights reaching along as far as the kidney grille. This emphasises the elegantly dynamic design, which has increased in length, width and wheelbase, giving the car an elegant and athletic silhouette. The interior sees a noticeable increase in space with a significant benefit for the rear passengers. Classic BMW lines flow over the instrument panel towards the front passenger side of the cabin, where they form a smooth and protective border. The cockpit wraps around the driver and ensures that all important functions are within easy reach.

Drive and chassis technology have always been key areas of expertise for the brand, and agility and driving dynamics remain outstanding attributes in the new 3 Series. A choice of three powerful engines is available: the 335i six-cylinder, the 328i and the 320i four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

1998–2005 When the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series was launched in May 1998, the compact sports sedan was some 40mm wider and even the track width has increased by 60 mm compared with its predecessor. At that time, BMW designers noted the styling of the front end had been reinterpreted.

The double-kidney grille was integrated into the bonnet and, together with the dual round headlights located behind clear glass covers, again shaped the powerful character of the BMW 3 Series’ face.

2005–2011 With the launch of the fifth generation in the year 2005, BMW brought to the market a model that was strong in character, exuded a greater presence and had more power than its predecessors. Only a year after the market launch, the new

www.bahrainthismonth.com

E Call 17 750-750.

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Porsche Gran Turismo Sport

PORSCHE CENTRE BAHRAIN

Sporting Attraction Porsche spices up the local car market with a fusion of two worlds following the launch of its sportiest sports utility vehicle ever — the Cayenne GTS.

72 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

After the global reveal wowed the audience at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, Porsche has now introduced the Gran Turismo Sport variant of the Porsche Cayenne in the Kingdom.

“The new Cayenne GTS is not simply a vehicle positioned between the Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo, but represents a model with its own distinctive character developed from tip to toe for emotionally charged sportiness,” commented Morgan Sunderland, brand manager of Porsche Centre Bahrain at the launch event.

“It is a vehicle set to grab the heart and mind of anyone passionate about driving. The Cayenne now comes in an athletic, faster GTS variant, with all the space, comfort and clear layout of an SUV; coupled with the driving fun, dynamics and agility of a sports car.”

The most powerful naturally-aspirated engine in the Cayenne model line, the GTS comes with a 4.8-litre V8 engine which offers up 420 hp. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 261 km/h.

An eight-speed tiptronic S gearbox, with integrated auto start/ stop function, offers dynamic control. The Porsche traction management with active all-wheel drive provides a superior feeling of comfort and safety — even at the high speeds.

Outstanding driving dynamics are delivered by a completely new chassis set-up and a lower body. With steel spring suspension featured as standard, the Cayenne GTS is 24mm lower than the Cayenne S and 20mm lower with optional air suspension.

The exterior underlines the vehicle’s sporting character. The front section features larger cooling air intakes — similar to the Cayenne Turbo — and a distinctive front apron with additional air intakes. The attention-getter at the rear end is

definitely the dominant roof spoiler with a twin-wing profile which not only looks good but also increases the down force on the rear axle.

“There is a strong focus on sports’ performance. This new model combines greater engine output, more dynamic power development and a firmer chassis set-up with a lower-slung body, yet with a very high degree of comfort,” adds Morgan.

Its sportiness is complemented with comfort and luxury. A leather interior comes as standard, including alcantara trims.

The driver and front seat passenger sit on eight-way electrically adjustable GTS sports seats.

The rear seats, with single-seat styling, offer rear passengers outstanding side support. With its shift paddles, the standard sports-designed steering wheel is poised for manual gear changes and blends harmoniously with the interior. Exclusive, optional interior packages are available only for the GTS, including contrasting stitching in carmine red or peridot metallic.

“A lot of people here in Bahrain choose the Cayenne for all its space, luxury and comfort, while enjoying the superior sporting performance and sheer pleasure of getting behind the wheel of a Porsche,” Morgan says. “Now our customers will be bowled over by the fact that while it still looks like an SUV — with all the benefits of a large, comfortable, family-friendly vehicle — it handles and feels like a sports car, physically and emotionally.”

The Cayenne GTS has a basic retail price of BD34,800.

E Call 17 459-911.

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germanysupplement P2M BERLIN

Consistently High Standards This engineering and consulting company works tirelessly to satisfy clients; a feat that is be achieved by consistent innovation and a commitment to the customer.

Since its establishment in 2007 in Bahrain, p2m berlin has maintained its position as a leading engineering and consulting company in the Kingdom. p2m berlin is the engineering company of Berlinwasser and offers services in water management, wastewater treatment and civil engineering and provides solutions to organisations such as the Ministry of Works.

Boasting many years of practical experience, p2m berlin has built a steadfast reputation that harnesses its project management skills and the use of innovative software. As an independent engineering service provider, the company is not beholden to any particular manufacturer and therefore gives priority entirely to the client.

“Our objective is purely related to the client. We satisfy our clients’ requirements, represent their interests and realise their projects,” explains Hubertus Soppert, managing director p2m berlin. “This consistent success is achieved by using state-ofthe-art technological standards. We also deliver comprehensive services for all processes, from the planning phase right through to commissioning steps.”

Hubertus notes that being ‘German’ has its advantages as well. “German brands, which are highly valued in the Middle East and worldwide, stand for exceptional quality, the longerterm, innovative technology, good and reliable service and above all, offer an implicit guarantee.

E Visit www.p2mberlin.de.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Graeme Newport (l) and Mark Price (r) from Al Haddad Motors at the C 63 AMG launch

AL HADDAD MOTORS

Design Statement An iconic coupé with AMG packaging adds up to a star performance simply waiting to drive out of the Mercedes showroom!

74 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

German beauty arrives on our shores in the form of the latest offering from Al Haddad Motors — the new C 63 AMG coupé.

Unmistakable design is teamed up with a drive system and dynamic handling to deliver a stand-alone, high-performance car that appeals to all the senses.

The new coupé rounds off the successful C-Class AMG model range, offering a car that features an eight-cylinder engine.

With a maximum output of 457 hp and peak torque of 600 Nm, the C 63 AMG coupé yields extremely powerful traction and outstanding performance.

The AMG model accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h, making it one of the fastest coupes in the world. The 6.3-litre V8 is naturally-aspirated and does not require any turbo to generate its power.

The coupé styling and the AMG badge tells an onlooker that this is not an average car. The dual twin exhaust system not only gives it a sporty look and feel but also enhances the driving experience. Moreover, the fibre spoiler and bumper diffuser at the rear is sure to grab attention.

“The C 63 AMG reminds me of Formula 1 when the camera rolls from the rear end of the vehicle and the cars take off in slow motion,” says Graeme Newport the general manager of Al Haddad Motors. “You can see the camera slowly rolling upwards showcasing the complete rear package of the car.”

The coupé comes with 18-inch wheels that include fivespoke AMG rims and a red brake calliper. The outer rear-view mirrors fold back with a simple click of a button to improve the aerodynamics.

Inside, the car sports AMG seats, in two-tone red and black, and a steering wheel made with Alcantara leather that’s enables a firmer grip. The entertainment package boasts a Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system; there’s also a navigation device and full connectivity for a range of hardware from handsets to MP3 players. You can even surf the Internet, although that’s not advisable when driving! E Call 17 785-454.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanysupplement

GERMAN SKIN CARE centre

Targeted Solutions To fix any personal problems that have been bothering you, pay a visit to this skin care centre where specialists will help you overcome all manner of ailments.

At the German Skin Care Centre you can choose treatments for almost any problems you have, be it acne, wrinkles, pigmentation, cellulite, fat reduction, permanent hair removal, skin rejuvenation or anti-ageing. Each problem is treated comprehensively through varied and diverse treatment methods, such as microdermabdasion, radiofrequency, infrared, cavitation, ultrasound, light, IPL and lymphatic-massage.

If you want to reduce fat, then ask for the special Farrell-Fat-Away-Method.

Fat cells are non-invasively cracked and removed, effectively lessening fat cells and leaving a more shaped and tightened body.

Or, if you have unwanted hair, then you can opt to undergo permanent hair removal by intense pulsed light. This completely pain-free procedure permanently eliminates unwanted hair growth with no side effects, and is ideal for filling wrinkles, rejuvenating the skin and removing spider veins.

Many other treatments will target any area of concern that you have and before each procedure the specialists at the centre will give you a comprehensive check. Also available at the centre are a range of special crèmes which are mixed individually for each customer. Free from mineral oils, emulsifiers, preservatives and parabens, alcohol and perfumes, the crèmes are kind to skin and gently soothe without causing irritation.

You can find the centre within the Zinj/Mahooz area, near Al Jazeera Supermarket, in the same building as Nasser Pharmacy.

E Call 17 722-696.

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Germany In Bahrain October 2012 75

germanysupplement VITAL AESTHETIC CLINIC

The Search for Beauty Going under the knife to improve your looks isn’t as simple as it seems. In addition to deciding exactly what it is you want, you also need to find the right surgeon.

Located within the Royal Bahrain Hospital, Vital Aesthetic Clinic offers a wide array of aesthetic solutions, conducting work on the body and face as well as targeted wrinkle therapies.

Finding the right surgeon If you would like to have work done, sourcing the ‘correct’ surgeon and treatment path is something that must be thoroughly considered.

“The deciding factor for the result of any cosmetic surgery is the practical surgical experience of the surgeon. It is impossible to find a surgeon who could call himself or herself an expert in all fields!” explains Dr Christian Preissner, director of the clinic. “It is important to ask what the focal points of the physician’s surgical background are, including how many and what type of patient cases the surgeon has handled.”

Working together to achieve your goal The objective of everything done at the Vital Aesthetic Clinic is to provide patients with the personal and natural beauty craved by all.

“Therefore, it is important to us to have the opportunity to get to know you in one or several consultations, which will impose no obligation whatsoever on you,” states Dr Christian. “This will allow you to familiarise us with your current personal appearance and to understand your beauty ideal. Only then will we jointly decide which kind of treatment is right for you.”

E Call 34 147-455 or 36 972-669 or visit www.vital-aesthetic-clinic.de.

Dr Christian Preissner

www.vital-aesthetic-clinic.de

Face and Neck Lift • Abdominoplasty Lipo Filling • Liposuction Breast Augmentation • Rhinoplasty Ear Correction • Eyelid Surgery

3697 2669 • 3414 7455 76 October 2012 Germany In Bahrain

Dr Christian Preissner

www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanysupplement YATEEM OPTICIAN

See In Style

If you are in need of a little help in the eyesight department, opt for the brand that adds style to sight.

Maybach

As a high-end automobile brand, Maybach has symbolised the most exacting demands on quality and luxury. Characteristics include intricate technicalities, exquisite materials and outstanding design. The brand name and exacting standards are also available when it comes to premium eyewear and accessories, offering exclusiveness for the connoisseur.

Over 100 years ago, Wilhelm Maybach and his son Karl Maybach laid the cornerstone for a brand which has today grown into a legend. The love of detail and precise handcrafting associated with Maybach are reflecting in the styling, which appeals to all the senses. As a result the eyewear collection unites the traditional and modern.

These sought-after frames are created using only the most select materials, such as combinations of fine woods, leather, titanium and 18-Carat solid white, yellow and rose gold, and even, if desired, diamonds. These materials are painstakingly worked, step by step, using the best German design techniques. The elegant design pays homage to the individuality of the wearer.

E Call 17 253-397.

MANAMA MODA MALL SEEF MALL BAHRAIN CITY CENTER AL AALI COMPLEX BUKAWARA

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: : : : : :

17253397 17534998 17580565 17179012, 17179317 17581085 17774061

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koreainbahrain

Korea in 80 Cementing Ties Now with its embassy open again in the Kingdom, Korea is very much in business, in Bahrain and within the GCC region, says Joonha Yu.

82 A Test of Time First Motors recognises the value of the Korean asset in its possession; promoting the ‘Hyundai Experience’ is more than selling motor vehicles.

84 Raising the Bar A household name for another reason, Samsung airconditioners reflect the high value-added product that is now a hallmark of many Korean brands. utomotive market.

86 A Smooth Ride Perhaps not as well known as other Korean brands, Kumho has made finessed its own road to success by manufacturing top-quality tyres for the automotive market.

87 Patient Partners A.A. Bin Hindi consciously elected to go ‘Korean’ more than two decades ago. It’s a decision that has paid off handsomely through representing brands such as Kia and Samsung.

Commercial Index First Motors (Hyundai)................................................ 83 Bahrain Tyre Centre (Kumho).................................... 79 Techno Blue (Samsung)............................................. 85

78 October 2012

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koreainbahrain The resource-rich region is crucial for the Asian Tiger in its quest for stable energy sources. The GCC has emerged as Korea’s second-largest trading partner after China, with total trade between the two estimated to have reached US$113.8 billion in 2011, according to the Korean International Trade Association.

Bahrain and South Korea have enjoyed close diplomatic relationships and strong economic and trade connections from the early 1970s. “Many Korean banks and the Korean Airline (KAL) were active in Bahrain, which was home to several thousand Koreans then,” observes Joonha.

Bilateral trade between the two sides is now worth US$ one billion, with significant potential for growth in coming years.

A visit by Crown Prince HRH Sheikh Salman in May this year has led to a deepening of ties, with an important agreement being reached on avoidance of double taxation.

The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has signed up with its Korean counterpart to promote mutual cooperation, including the regular exchange of market information, business opportunities and economic delegations for promoting trade, investment and commercial exchange.

Joonha Yu

Cementing Ties Simi Kamboj With the reopening of the Korean Embassy in Bahrain, the Asian Tiger has signalled that it means business and is here to stay.

80 October 2012

Back in Bahrain after a 12-year hiatus, the newly-opened embassy has filled up the void in Korea’s diplomatic presence in the Middle East.

The mission was closed down in 1999 in the wake of the Asian financial crisis, which led to a waning Korean presence in the Kingdom. The Korean community in Bahrain now comprises mainly corporate professionals and engineers who’re here on assignment.

“We regard the Kingdom as a financial hub of the GCC. With its liberal environment and open economy, Bahrain is the ideal base for our business community to operate and thrive in the region,” observes Joonha Yu, chargé d'affaires, Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Bahrain.

Battling odds An original Asian Tiger, South Korea has remained one of the more bankable economies in the region, showing resilience in the midst of the current global turmoil. The country has had to overcome many challenges on its way to becoming a world economic power.

A crushing colonial rule of 36 years, followed by a three-year war with North Korea, resulting in 1.5 million civilian casualties, was a precursor to the introduction of technical training, economic efficiency and a disciplined way of life into the largely agrarian Korean society, believes Joonha.

The Korean economy is now fuelled by companies that have become household names worldwide such as LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motors and Kia Motors.

Other notable Korean companies with operations in Bahrain include Hyundai Heavy Industries, Woori Bank, Dm Puretech Co, Woongjin Development, Myong Sung Engineering and Korea Exchange Bank.

Koreans have been actively involved in building Bahrain, Joonha points out. The Al Dur Power Plant was built by Hyundai Heavy Industries, while Samsung Engineering executed the Bapco lube oil plant, which bagged the MEED Quality Award for projects last year. Samsung Engineering is engaged in another water treatment project at the moment.

Ranked as world number one in e-governance by the United Nations, Korea is now working with the Bahrain government.

Korean firm, LG CNS is executing a Business Licensing Integrated System (BLIS) for Bahrain’s eGovernment Authority, which will simplify the process of application and renewal of commercial registrations and related licences, making it easier to set up businesses in Bahrain.

Meanwhile, Samsung SNS is evaluating the feasibility of starting operations in the area of network services and solutions in the Bahrain market.

Winning attributes With the dawn of the information age in late 1970s, Korean companies shifted their focus from heavy industry to higher-

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bystanderthismonth

Rotary Club Of Salmaniya Luncheon xxxxx We regard the Kingdom as a financial hub of the GCC. With its liberal environment and open economy, Bahrain is the ideal base for our business community to operate and thrive in the region quality value added sectors such as consumer electronics and IT. One of the main reasons behind Korea’s economic success has been its decision to fund research and development (R&D) even during the tough times.

Besides the motoring industry, IT is another key industry in Korea that has benefited from R&D spending. As a result, Korea has the world’s best IT infrastructure and Korean companies such as Samsung Electronics dominate the smartphone market, with cutting edge technologies.

“Being a highly competitive market, it’s impossible for companies to survive in Korea without attributes such as speed, efficiency and volumes. We are the ideal testing ground for new IT products; if a product clicks in the local market it is guaranteed success internationally,” explains Joonha.

However, Korean companies will have to drive innovation further if they are to retain their dominance in this sphere, he believes. Many Korean players are looking to tap local partners in the region in the areas of technology, renewable energy and services.

“Without further innovation, heavy industry is not viable for Korea since the competition from the eastern Asian countries is fierce. We have a keen interest in green technology, especially in solar energy, and would like to explore this sector within the Middle East,” he says.

Some Korean players in sectors such as renewable energy and security solutions are exploring the market conditions in Bahrain.

“Some companies have shown interest in investing directly in Bahrain. The Bahrain International Investment Park (BIIP) is a strategic location near the port and provides a favourable atmosphere for manufacturing units. A Korean straw-producing company with operations in Vietnam and Turkey has completed its feasibility study in Bahrain,” notes Joonha.

Another petrochemical player interested in investing in Bahrain is evaluating the conditions at present.

Going forward, Joonha hopes to invite a large business delegation from Korea to showcase Bahrain’s business-friendly credentials to investors in his country.

The Rotary Club of Salmaniya held a lunch meeting for members and guests at the Golden Tulip Hotel's Multipurpose Garden Restaurant last month. The guest speaker at the event was Jean Nicolai, Founder & President of SteppingStone Global, who spoke on 'Transformational Leadership in Management

Sebahat, Jean Nicolai, Khalid Turk, Marjan, Andreas & Virendra

Abdulrahim, Andrew, Ismail & Jean

Mazin & Nada

Chris, Panos & Steve

Education push As a small country with a large population that has almost no natural resources to depend on, South Korea has consciously adapted an exportoriented economic strategy to fuel growth.

“Since we’re so poor in natural resources, human resources and their education are our mainstay. We continue to invest in education and science and technology for the progress of our country,” he says.

A model of economic success owing to its reliance on education and human resources alone, Korea would be happy to share its experience with other countries.

“The Korean experience is all the more relevent since our generation, which still remembers the hardships of 1960s and 1970s, has witnessed the economic transformation in our lifetime,” Joona notes.

David & Ernst

Olivier

Abdulrahman Al Rayes, Abdulrahman Fakhro & Abdulla Juma

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ashraf & Irina

Hassan

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Raed Muti

FIRST MOTORS

A Test of Time Anyone who has driven Hyundai cars in recent years will acknowledge that the latest models offer a significant improvement in quality and performance compared to their predecessors.

82 October 2012

The market position of Hyundai Motors reflects, in many ways, the increasing brand power demonstrated by Korean products and services. While the company continues to be among the fastest-growing car manufacturers in the world, in terms of new car sales, the days of ‘volume’ taking precedence over quality has long since past.

“There has been a significant repositioning of the brand over the past couple of years,” says Raed Muti, the general manager at First Motors, the exclusive distributor for Hyundai passenger vehicles in the Kingdom. “We have reached a point where our premium cars, such as the Genesis, are a match for other brands that reside within the luxury end of the market.”

Raed sees this change as a natural evolution for the brand where customers now acknowledge the quality of the product on offer. This is not, however, just reflected in the cars and sports utility vehicles that sit in the showroom.

“The Hyundai strategy has a holistic nature to it,” explains Raed. “We talk about a ‘Hyundai Experience’ where the customer is supported throughout the lifecycle of their ownership of the vehicle. That impacts the way we greet people when they enter the showroom to the after-sales support they receive to maintain the value of their asset.”

As a statement of the trust and confidence that the local distributor has in the brand, First Motors offers a lifetime

warranty on any Hyundai purchased from, and subsequently maintained by, the exclusive retailer. “This not a manufacturer’s offer, but rather a commitment we have undertaken ourselves as the distributor. It is also supported by a guaranteed buyback scheme,” he says.

If you ask Raed what he would regard as the stand-out difference for the brand in recent years, he quickly references the design changes brought about by the fluidic sculpture philosophy. This has underpinned the development process from 2009 onwards.

“The look and feel of a Hyundai today is a world apart from earlier models,” he notes. “This change makes a definitive statement and encapsulates everything about the way in which we produce and maintain vehicles today.”

One only has to test drive a ‘new’ Hyundai to experience the change, whether it is a mid-range sedan such as the Sonata or the Santa Fe, the latest addition to the sports utility vehicle line-up.

The proof, as they say, in often ‘in the pudding’. While Raed is more than happy to wax lyrical about his confidence in the brand, he’d far rather you simply took one of his vehicles out for a test drive and let the ‘Hyundai Experience’ do his talking for him!

E Call 17 750-750.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

koreainbahrain One of Samsung’s greatest attributes is its ability to produce innovative products and technologies; another reason why the brand is the desired choice with many.

“Samsung Television’s flagship features such as SMART content, interaction and evolution are revolutionary. A simple gesture is all it takes to access your favourite movies, sports, apps and other content.

Customers can enjoy new experiences as their TV is reborn each year with the latest SMART technology, simply by installing kits,” explains Gebe George, marketing specialist And don’t think that the home appliances division does not keep pace either.

Samsung has a ten-year warranty on the Digital Inverter Compressor for the refrigerators, which varies its power and running speed as per cooling requirements” says an official in Samsung Gulf Electronics, Dubai.

“Similarly, washing machines with Eco-Bubble Technology use 30 per cent energy and generate special bubbles which penetrate fabrics faster. Microwave ovens now come with ceramic enamelinside coating and they also carry a ten-year warranty.”

There should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that Samsung will not continue to grow and improve. The much awaited 75 inch SMART TV will be rolled out this month with a beautiful rose gold finish, super-slim 7.9mm bezel and HD video playback. On the home front, an ultra-modern four-door refrigerator will soon be released which comes with thinner walls for more internal capacity.

“Samsung has some of the best products in the market within their segments and as a distributor we will continue to match customer expectations with attractive pricing and aftersales servicing,” states Jayan. E Call 17 233-240.

TECHNO BLUE

Raising the Bar Combining advancedtechnology, sleek designs and unwavering durability, Samsung sits at the forefront of electrical appliances for the home.

84 October 2012

The world-renowned brand has had a presence in Bahrain for more than 25 years; Techno Blue has made a strong mark in being one of the authorised distributors of Samsung in the Kingdom.

“Since we have dealt with Samsung in the Kingdom, we have seen an exponential growth and boost in loyalty to its innovative products,” says Techno Blue operations manager Jayan Menon. “Techno Blue represents Samsung’s audio-video, home appliance and IT range of products and services.

Customers will find these stocked in retail outlets across the Kingdom. In addition, we have three dedicated showrooms in Salmaniya, Hoora and Bab Al-Bahrain for customers who want undivided attention and a better sales experience.”

Fans of the brand will not be disappointed with the selection either; customers can purchase all products available internationally here in the Kingdom, and new launches are usually introduced in just a matter of days after they are released in Dubai.

“There is always some hype whenever a new Samsung product is launched because customers know it will be the best in the market,” Jayan adds.

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koreainbahrain

bahrain tyre centre

A Smooth Ride

Keep your passengers comfortable and safe when you’re driving by investing in one of the best and most dependable tyres in the market.

We often refer to our mode of transport as our ‘wheels’; the importance of these four (or two if you are a biker) rubber wonders is not to be underestimated. Korean manufacturer Kumho created the Solus K21 tyre to combat all motoring and terrain conditions.

Having the right tyres is essential for your safety and the performance of your vehicle. The Solus K21, known as the ‘Standard Touring All-Season’ tyre, offers a combination of a long life, low noise and smooth ride to enhance handling and traction in all weather conditions.

Made from a high-tech carbon compound each tyre is capable of delivering a stable and dry grip even on a moist road. Using a computer-designed tread pattern, tyres are moulded to combine independent shoulder blocks, notched intermediate ribs and a continuous centre-rib.

This ensures they maintain their grip on any road surface.

Another unique feature of Kumho’s tyres is that they contain nylon around the edges. This helps to maintain the sturdiness and an appropriate balance, which increases traction and therefore control over your car. The internal structure includes twin steel belts to provide strength and is reinforced by nylon, which is normally only found in high performance tyres. A polyester cord allows for a smooth ride and spirally-wound single strand beads provide a more precise tyre-to-rim fit. This reduces vibrations.

However, the most eye-catching fact about Kumho Solus KR21 tyres is the pricing. As a result they are both affordable and popular with motorists.

If you want to ensure safety and a confortable ride for you and your family, head down to the nearest 3K Service Centre and discover the value of Kumho Solus KR21 tyres.

E Call 17 737-666.

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koreainbahrain

Mohammed and Aziz Bin Hindi

Keeping It Competitive Acquiring Korean brands to represent was a strategic business decision for the A. A. Bin Hindi Group close to two decades ago.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The chaebol nature of business in Korea means that, on the global stage, our knowledge of Korean brands is limited to only a handful of names. Of this small group, two household names are represented by A. A. bin Hindi Group in the Kingdom — Kia Motors and Samsung Electronics.

“When we looked at opportunities to expand our business in the 1980s, we made a conscious decision to seek out Korean brands,” says Mohammed Bin Hindi, the general manager for Kia Motors. At the time, he explains, the rights to most of the major Japanese brands in Bahrain had already been taken up.

“We looked for the next wave of new brands and Korea was an obvious option,” he adds. “This approach, though, required patience on our part. We recognised that returns would not be immediate and the brands would need to mature internationally for us to be rewarded for our efforts.”

The group has since represented Kia Motors and Samsung Electronics from 1989 and 1998 respectively. One feature of these brands that both Mohammed and Aziz, the general manager for Samsung, are keen to stress is the extent to which their Korean partners do their “homework” before launching a product or service.

“While Koreans may generally be perceived as being aggressive with the promotion of their products,” notes Aziz, “this is backed up market research and an understanding of client needs. Today, this is reflected in repeat customer

business; whether it is a Samsung phone or a Kia vehicle, there is a belief in predecessor models within the marketplace which drives new business.”

A perennial issue for Kia Motors has been to keep pace with demand. Mohammed has coped with this in recent years and, although the car manufacturer will shortly add two new plants to the current 15 in operation, this might not, he suggests, be able to completely meet demand.

The latest edition to the Kia range is the all-new Kia Quoris luxury sedan flagship model that was launched last month.

Over at Samsung, Aziz expects the introduction of Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, which operate in the 4G spectrum, to offer yet more opportunities for growth. The market leader within the smartphone segment, he notes Samsung continues to grow its share of the market.

As one might expect, Aziz has been making full use of social media channels to market the brand and notes that pre-booking of new phones is increasingly a common practice. “The notion of paying a deposit to order a mobile phone handset would have been unreal a couple of years ago; today it is very much a reality,” he says.

This does, though, say something about Korean brands; always on the edge seeking to maintain their position in extremely competitive markets around the world.

E Call 39 688-207.

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30 Rock

What’s On TV? elma bartholomew Wow, that was a long break! We can’t be happier to spot familiar faces back on the mini-screen this fall. It’s about time we found out what’s going on with our extended family.

To begin with, let me thank the heavens for the return of 30 Rock because I had started to lose hope in the existence of wit on television. It comes with a tinge of pain, though, as this is rumoured to be the last season of the spectacular show. Going

by Tina Fey’s work so far, we can look forward to some hilarious episodes before the curtain finally drops. Word goes that faces like Isabella Rossellini and Salma Hayek will make a comeback.

Also on the comedy front, The Big Bang Theory is back with yet another season. It seemed like the beauty and the geek formula was slowly and painfully wearing off before their summer break. I’ve got my fingers crossed for this to be a great comeback. Nonetheless, it looks like we could nickname Season Six as “Closure” with all that is in the pipeline.

Fans can continue their quest for how Ted met his wife in another season of How I Met Your Mother. Creators have dubbed October “Breakup month”. The good news is you needn’t wait any longer to find out why. Meanwhile, Emmy sweepers, Modern Family, open Season Four with the rest of the family learning of Gloria’s big news.

Also this month

The team at New Girl better prove they haven’t run out of ideas or it’s going to witness an unfortunate boycotting session. The Office survives to give its fans one more season although it looks very different with new faces filling in the empty cubicles.

Now that Castle and Beckett are finally together, there is just one other item of unfinished business in the comedy-drama.

Her mother’s death will finally be solved. I say we brace ourselves for another double-episode trauma on Castle.

Speaking of dramas, The Good Wife continues to impress its viewers time and again. Grey’s Anatomy, on the other hand, cannot be more influenced by Lost. Finding new ground is Once Upon a Time which will have everyone focusing on redemption now that they can remember who they are. Watch out for some exciting new characters this month.

Having left us with one of the best season finales of the year, Revenge returns with a healthy portion of vengeance. The twists are endless and the suspense nail-biting. Be prepared to meet a new Grayson in the midst of it all.

As much as I’m trying to avoid the overdose of scrubs on screen, there’s one that has caught the eye, solely because it stars Meryl Streep’s eldest. Say hello to Emily Owens, MD (because the idiot box was running out of doctors). With Matt Le Blanc’s show going well, it’s a pity if Matthew Perry doesn’t lead a show himself. Go On shows you what’s funny about grief. If you thought there was a shortage of homosexuals on television, fret not. Partners gives us another pair of straight and gay BFFs from the creators of Will and Grace.

Customise your headphones

Mix up colours for a customised Aviator creation from Skullcandy. Spin it, modify it, share it with friends.

Green thumbs for all

Are you a plant murderer without intending to be?

Reverse your fate with Koubachi’s Wi-Fi plant sensor.

90 Gadgets x 92 Music x 94 Computer games x 95 Websites x 96 Apps x 97 Movies x 98 Sattelite TV

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downtimegadgets

Life Made Easier While we’re excited about an unpredictable team-up, BTM can’t wait to get their hands on what’s new in the gizmo world.

For the environment-conscious

Take it back

Lapka, a new set of monitors designed for the iPhone, helps you examine your personal environment as you go about your daily life. It measures temperature and humidity, nitrates in raw foods, airborne radiation and electromagnetic feedback.

How many times have you wished the backspace key wasn’t so oddly placed? Making life easier is Microsoft with the Sculpt Comfort Keyboard equipped with a unique split spacebar. Increase your typing speed with a handy backspace key to the left of the spacebar.

Editor's pick!

Hands off!

Compact and portable, the GoSmart Clip is ideal for those who multi-task and drive, especially when they depend on their mobile phones.

Designed to secure virtually anywhere, you can just clip your phone and work hands-free while on-the-go.

Picture it

The days of carrying a picture in your wallet are long gone. With Kodak Smile you can carry around a digital keychain that can hold far more than a little wallet ever could. With a 1.5 inch screen, the lightweight gizmo can hold over 100 photos in the built-in memory and when fully charged can function for up to two hours.

A little too cute

There’s no rule that insists all gizmos need to look emotionless. In all its 4.25-inch glory, the Little Printer is quite endearing as a gadget which can create a miniature newspaper, if you use your smartphone to set up subscriptions, using thermal printing technology.

Everybody loves toast

A USB hub shaped like a tiny toaster and thumb-drives shaped like toast?

Yes please! The Toaster Hub from ThinkGeek comes in four varieties.

Each thumb drive has a capacity of 4G and the hub has a speed of up to 480mbps.

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Clip-on hues

Adding a dash of the brightest colours to your living space needn’t mean having to redo your home completely; at least not when Jawbone has come up with a new way to personalise the Jambox speaker. Choose from 13 vibrant shades and four unique designs.

On track

For those of you who have running on their daily to-do list, the Forerunner 10 from Garmin is a useful gadget. Although it might not be all too fancy, this watch can help you set goals and trigger points along your course.

Stay charged

All Samsung Galaxy S3 owners can now let out a sigh of relief because you can stop worrying about your phone running out of power midday.

Zen’s new wireless inductive charging system might just be the lifesaver you were looking for.

Smart camera

If there was a camera equivalent to smartphones, then this would be it. The new Samsung Galaxy Camera comes with the most recent Android 4.1 Jelly Bean operating system with a host of connectivity options like 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi support.

Mixing it up

If you always knew there was a spin master in you, then the Pioneer DDJ-WeGo DJ controller is your weapon to prove those hidden skills. Don’t let the lack of equipment and shaky finances become excuses. This budget-friendly machine comes for a steal.

All gadgets are available online.

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Blast from the Past OF A TH LBUM E M ON TH

It’s nice to see some familiar faces on the shelves this month. Find out what we think about the legends in the industry.

No Doubt

Push and Shove RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? After creating two

sufferable albums in her solo career, Gwen Stefani has finally found time to go back to her roots. As she admitted to MTV News, the quartet had no idea what their sixth album should sound like. As a result, Push and Shove has a little bit of everything from ska and punk to dance, pop and rock influences. Lacking focus and any sort of sense, No Doubt has created yet another meaningless wonder. At the least, it is honest and amusing.

WORTH A LISTEN?

Well, after a 10-year wait any album better be worth a listen. Then again, you’d listen to anything from a popular band which shows up after so long. If you can forgive the rigmarole that they call lyrics, Push and Shove is bearable. I highly doubt you’ll want to drag this one to your car, though. The mishmash of genres and styles make for a tolerable mess that surprisingly works. It’s Gwen Stefani, after all. She could do nothing but exist on screen and she’d still be loved.

VERDICT: No doubt, this one was made without a

game plan.

TOP TRACKS: Gravity, One More Summer and Looking Hot.

Pink

The Truth About Love

‘Soppy’ isn’t something we can picture Pink to be. Yet at such a happy juncture in her life, there’s no reason she shouldn’t be. The saving grace is that she hasn’t drifted from her edgy poppunk-rock sound. It’s only the theme that has found a more positive note. What she lacks in song writing, she makes up with catchy tunes. We’re just glad she hasn’t moved into the techno underworld like every other singer.

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Deadmau5

Album Title Goes Here Just as much as I am not a fan of the anti-title, I did not enjoy the album. Sure, it can get a few woozy partygoers to move, but come sunrise and this album is a headache they’ll never forget.

Pet Shop Boys

Elysium Any fan of the UK duo should know that these boys always offer a peculiar listen. Our Early Stuff will get you laughing as the selfdepricating number pokes fun at the fact that they’re still stuck in the pop age.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Back in Shape Competition

How To Get Back In Shape And Win A Box Full Of Money!

ANNOUNCING… The Brand New DBC Back In Shape Competition That Will Whip YOU “Back In Shape”!

Dear Friend, Your weight has always made you spend money (between diet programmes, gym memberships, sports clothes etc.), but now you can get back that money and make that fat work for you! Sure, there are great incentives to losing weight.

Looking great, feeling fit, fitting into smaller clothes, and having the body of your dreams is great motivation.

I am filling this box with a dinar. It’s filling up fast. And I have a plan for this box that involves you. It also involves an interesting competition. It involves shedding numerous inches of fat and it involves lots of cash. I want to share this plan with you, so make sure to visit our Back in Shape Competition website at www.dbcbackinshape.com or call us at 17582982.

But what if we add some cash to the mix? What if you got something for every inch of fat that you lost? What if for every inch you lost you came closer to a secret treasure? What if this treasure was a pot of cash that is filled and filled with all the cash of numerous other people losing inches Interested? Then, Read on.

As you’ll notice when you visit us, I have placed a box at the reception at DreamBody Centre. It’s a see-through box. A clear box that is being filled with one Dinar notes every day. “Where is this money coming from?” you ask? It’s coming from the inches of fat that members lose here every day, and for every inch that anyone at the centre is losing,

www.dbcbackinshape.com

Go on, get back in shape today!

downtimecomputergames

Silent Killers It has been a good month in the gaming world with the best of role-playing games finding their way to our collection.

TH GA E M M E ON TH

Mark of the Ninja (Xbox 360)

OF

There isn’t a child who hasn’t passed the ninja phase. This superbly creative game is your chance to unshackle that inner child. A mind-blowing stealth game with gorgeous animations, Mark of the Ninja is certainly one of those games that I’ll keep coming back to.

Yes, it is that entertaining.

Torchlight II (PC) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

The award-winning action role-playing game is back, bigger and better than ever. Torchlight II takes you into the quirky, yet familiar, fast-paced world of bloodthirsty monsters, bountiful treasures and sinister secrets. Once again, the fate of the world is in your hands. The game captures all the flavour and excitement of the original version while expanding the world and adding the features players wanted most, including online and LAN co-op multiplayer. It is fast, fun and filled to the brim with action and loot.

Faster Than Light (PC) If you’re into sci-fi settings and have a fetish for starships, FTL is the game for you. It’s simple with a very straightforward mission. That, by no means, hints at an easy journey to success with the number of rebel encounters you’ll face. It’s a highly rewarding experience.

GRAPHICS:

Expect old-school rigidity which somehow works well for this game. Once more, your pet takes up the role of an alternate inventory and is sent on mini-missions of its own. The bright colours do not overshadow the looming dread. There are a few surprising elements from the design aspect of things. There is no space wasted on the screen; behind every hazy shadow is a creepy monster.

GAMEPLAY:

There’s no time for a story when you’re playing Torchlight II. It’s all about slaughter and that’s the first thing you step into as the game begins, literally.

However, that doesn’t mean the flat characters leave you discontented. It feels like you’re hopping through the pages of a storybook and there is a certain sense of fulfilment in that. The successor is much more adventurous and gives you the need to stay alert constantly. Above all, this one is built for longevity.

VERDICT: There isn’t much that’s new; but it is definitely a great game.

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Borderlands 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360) We got our share of guns and loots thanks to this gem of a game. An insomniac’s best friend, Borderlands 2 will help you forget that you need any sleep at all. With the familiar plot of slaying and collecting ammo, this is still a keeper.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

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Bigthink.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

In our digital age, we’re drowning in information. The web offers us infinite data points — news stories, tweets, wikis, status updates — but very little to connect the dots or illuminate the larger patterns linking them together. At Big Think, they believe that success is about knowing the ideas that allow you to manage this universe of information.

THE GOOD: Every idea here comes from an ever-growing network of 2,000 top thinkers and doers from around the globe. The editorial team regularly sources ideas, asking them about the most important ideas in their respective fields. It then packages and presents them to you. They, thus, optimise the “speed of knowledge” by conveying the value of ideas as efficiently and effectively as possible.

THE BAD:

If you aren’t the kind to load yourself with as much information as possible, this site is really of no use. Also, if you aren’t up-todate with the daily happenings in the world, you can feel quite lost in this portal. It is also easy to misconstrue their intentions; you might assume that they are telling you what to think instead of helping find new perspectives.

VERDICT: This website can camouflage itself as a nerd’s haven while it really is just an interesting read.

Edudemic.com Edudemic focuses on giving people access to the leading edge of thinking in the most accessible, consumable and compelling way possible. They try to change the way we think about learning through diverse forms of new thinking.

VisualDNA.com We have all wondered who we really are. VisualDNA helps us find ourselves with the help of a few images that speak to us at a subconscious level. Take the quiz to find out things about yourself, what you need to do and how to do them.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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On Your Tail Owing to an amazing app designed to keep up with an increasingly mobile lifestyle, you no longer need to make a phone call or send a text to communicate common location-based information.

E TH

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Pulse Pulse is an elegant news-reading application for iPhone, iPad and Android devices. It incorporates colourful panning story bars and fills them with content from your favourite sources.

It redefines news, giving you the opportunity to experience the information you desire from traditional sources, your favourite blogs and social networks — all in one beautiful interface. You no longer need a hundred shortcuts on your screen and to fill your phone up with umpteen apps when you can see them all together at the touch of a button.

To top it all, it’s free.

Glympse RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Glympse visually answers the question of “Where are you?” with a dynamic map that updates your whereabouts in real time. You can now “glimpse” anyone in your contact list and share your location as easily as sending a text message, but a lot more fun.

Recipients know exactly where you are, when and for as long as you want them to.

THE GOOD: You are in complete control; you choose who you want to see your

location, when and for how long. Unlike other location-based services, Glympse can be used within seconds of downloading to a GPS-enabled smartphone device. A sender has the ability to pause, cancel or extend a Glympse at any time. The auto shut-off security feature addresses the concern that users can easily forget to turn off location-sharing mode and unintentionally broadcast their whereabouts at inappropriate times.

THE BAD:

I’d rather not have anyone know where I am exactly unless I was kidnapped, lost or to prove that I am honestly on my way. For those who enjoy their privacy, this might turn out to be an utter waste. However, the pros outweigh the cons. If you think about it, following your car is now unnecessary for a friend who has the exact trail on their phone.

VERDICT: You’d better watch where you’re going with this.

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Paper Camera See the world through a novel, stylish and captivating lens.

Get real-time cartoon and painting effects displayed on your camera feed. Discover how cool your world can be with a wave of your camera while the app is active. This is the ultimate collection of funky effects painted directly in your camera. With this, you no longer need to clutter your gallery with several versions of the same image. Bid farewell to boring post-effects. Although compatible with all devices, this luxury comes at a price.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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movies

The Perks of Being a Wallflower RATING: DIRECTED BY: Stephen Chbosky STARRING: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller

THE PLOT:

Based on the novel written by Stephen Chbosky, this is about 15-year-old Charlie (Lerman), an endearing and naive outsider, coping with first love (Watson), the suicide of his best friend, and his own mental illness while struggling to find a group of people with whom he belongs. The introvert freshman is taken under the wings of two seniors, Sam and Patrick, who welcome him to the real world.

WORTH WATCHING? Always sceptical of book-based

movies, I was a little worried I wasn’t going to enjoy this. I suppose it’s hard to blame anyone when the author himself has done the screenplay. 10 years is a long time for a good book to make it to the big screen, but I’m glad Chbosky got the time to work with the characters before his first experience behind the camera. Don’t expect anything more than an ordinary coming of age story.

VERDICT: The wait was worth it.

Bachelorette The name says it all. Why Kirsten Dunst was a part of this movie, I will never understand. However, this isn’t all bad. It’d be a shame to confuse this with Bridesmaids. You’ve reason to laugh, but mostly you’ll find reason to relate with the characters. Watch it when there really isn’t anything else available.

Hotel Transylvania You can’t expect more from an animation film like this than entertainment and good effects.

Hotel Transylvania does just that. The storytelling is effective and the visuals are stunning. If you’re used to Adam Sandler’s style, then you’ll enjoy this one. It’s fun while it lasts

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downtimesatTV WHEN? Every Monday on OSN First HD/OSN First

MOVIES

Reign of Fire Medieval fantasy meets futuristic science fiction in this effects-heavy action epic from former X-Files director, Rob Bowman. In present-day London, 12-year-old Quinn Abercromby witnesses the awakening of a hibernating dragon from a centuries-long slumber, the result of a construction dig supervised by his mother and an incident for which he feels partially responsible.

20 years later, the adult Quinn, played by Christian Bale, is the fire chief of a refortified castle community, responsible for dousing the blazes lit by the dragon’s prodigious number of flame-spewing offspring. The airborne juggernauts have wreaked havoc across the globe, torching civilisations and turning humans into an endangered species. As is expected of such movies, it’s time for him to save the world.

SERIES/SPECIALS

Revenge (Season 2) Emily Thorne rents a house in the Hamptons for the summer, seemingly intent on nothing more than enjoying a break in the popular resort. It soon becomes clear that there’s more to her visit.

Her real name is Amanda Clarke and her father was framed for a crime he didn’t commit and sent to prison for life. She has come to seek revenge against the people who betrayed him. The first season offered nerve-wracking twists.

Watch out for new love interests, more secrets and a return to summer in the Hamptons in the second leg of the show. Dynamics have shifted, plots are coming fast and furious and it’s going to be utterly twisted. Prepare for something darker and deeper than last year, if that’s even possible. Stay tuned!

WHEN? OSN Box Office 3, October 30 Dark Shadows

WHEN? Every Tuesday on OSN First HD/OSN First

WHEN? Every Wednesday on OSN Comedy HD

WHEN? Every Tuesday on ITV Granada

Private Practice S6

The Boondocks S4

Doc Martin S5

From the creator of Grey’s Anatomy, comes the story of a team of gifted doctors working together to change the lives of their patients for the better as they look to one another for friendship and love. The team continues to balance work and their private lives with mixed success.

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Based on Aaron McGruder’s award-winning comic strip of the same name, this is a thought-provoking familybased comedy brimming with social relevance and satire.

The show follows the adventures of two boys, Riley and Huey Freeman, who experience a culture clash.

This season brings new challenges for Martin and Louisa as new parents and also as a couple. Sleepless nights take a toll on them and put their shaky relationship under strain.

Martin is reacquainted with his aunt, who has some interesting insights to offer.

The Inbetweeners

Director Tim Burton brings the cult classic series Dark Shadows to the big screen in a film featuring an all-star cast led by Johnny Depp. The movie is about an imprisoned vampire who is set free and returns to his ancestral home where his dysfunctional descendants are in need of his protection.

This British coming-of-age comedy is based on the hugely popular and awardwinning British sitcom with the same name. It follows the misadventures of a group of teenage friends on holiday in Crete after the end of their final year at school.

WHEN? OSN Box Office 2, October 26-November 1

WHEN? OSN Movies HD/OSN Cinema, October 31

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bystanderthismonth

BCC Fall For Fashion Campaign The Bahrain City Centre (BCC) launched its month-long ‘Fall for Fashion’ campaign that uncovers the season’s hottest shoe and handbag trends. During the event-filled month, shoppers at BCC will be treated to a non-stop fashion event with stylish display featuring your favourite brands, chances to win a shopping spree worth BD 3,000 and a special community project involving school kids in the community. At the core of all the activity will be an exclusive fashion display, themed ‘It’s all about Shoes & Bags’. hosted in the Central Galleria. At the centrepiece will be a larger than life shoe installation – a Giant Red Shoe, a replica of one of aennis eunis's designs by designer Anas Younis

Waqas Al Thawadi & Duaij Al Rumaihi

Noorah, Maya, Yasmeen & Nawar

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The giant aennis eunis shoe

Lori, Dipti & Sarah

Mercilyn & Carman

Rawia & Ahmed

Zhoor, Haidi & Rana

Samia

Nada & Lilia

Roshi

Apple

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Maki Upgraded iPad Menu Launch Maki Restaurant at the World Trade Centre hosted a reception to showcase the restaurants upgraded iPad Menu whereby guests can place their own order on the iPad in a â&#x20AC;&#x153;shopping-cartâ&#x20AC;? form. This removes the need for the waiter, except for recommendations, or to review the order before it is sent straight to the chefs with a click of an iPad button

Edward, Mohammed, Shruti & Stuart

Amer Zeitoun, Alex, Ali & Mohammed

Shehab, Fatima & Lamya

Shub, Kalyan, Rohini & Ahmed

Tareq & Claire

Marike

Jennyfer, Susanne & Clauss

Aman, Shub & Amer

Steve & Stuart

Robin

The K Hotel Pool Party The K Hotel in Juffair hosted a pool party for a number of guests last month

Ariel, Agnes & Sunny

Michelle & Ailyn

Ayla

Shanda, Likia & kids with Ayla

Zakaria & Mo

Alma

Agnes, George & Ahmed

DJs Fahad & Nizz

100 October 2012

Hassan & Jeevan

Rose & Amanda

Avandria

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De Beers Diamonds Seminar HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador hosted Andrew Coxon, President of the De Beers Institute of Diamonds who gave members of the media and guests an insider's guide to diamonds. The event was held at the Ambassador's offical residence at the British Embassy last month

Mohammed Kooheji, Bridget Lindsay, HE Iain Lindsay & Andrew Coxon

Mohammed Kooheji, HE Iain Lindsay & Andrew Coxon address the media & guests

Bridget Lindsay

HE Iain Lindsay, Bridget Lindsay & Josh Morar

Bridget Lindsay & Marise

Tania & Sushma

Bill S & Mohammed Kooheji

Dilraz & Likhiya

Josh Morar, Kaizad Sanjana, Lynn Svensson & Collin Lewis

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Onam Festival Celebrations The Country Club held an Onam Festival that featured South Indian actress Bhama and well known pianist Stephen Devassy, who composes, and arranges music for the Indian music industry. The event was held at the Jashanmal Auditorium, Indian School, Isa Town Stephen Devassy, left, with performers on stage

Sarva & Ali

Jayashree & Jaya Menon

102 October 2012

Harshita, Bhama & Ghaliya

The Country Club team - Akbar, Kumudini, Carol, Sanjeev, Kavita, Prasanth, Thomas, Rajesh & Prakash

Salish, Sisira & Deepa

Aysha & Stella

Prakash & Faisal

Nayef Al Sherooqi

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Block 338 Raffle Draw Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden gave customers a chance to win a Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-25 full scale replica steering wheel with any glass of a famous Scottish beverage. The raffle draw for the steering wheel was held last month

Shiva, Steve Tunstall & Mariana

Gertrude, Bartholemew, Deviram & Eugene

Koko & Kim

Roy, Mariana & Raj

Nawal & Dalia

Andrew, Dona & Gavin

Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS) CHARITY DINNER DANCE Friday 2nd November 2012, Grand Ambassador Suite Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa Featuring live acoustic music DJ and International Buffet Dinner Tickets BD25 per person Doors open 7pm SPONSORS

Aysha, Nayla & Raheel

DJ Nizz

For tickets and information call Deepa on 17827895 Esky on 33331072, Beverley on 39737548 or Marietta 39452470.

Remy & Dayana

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Jacky & Jao

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Mohammed Shahafeez Eid Open House Mohammed & Nadia Shahafeez hosted an Eid Open House for members of the Malaysian community at their residence in Hamala Faidzul, Bob, Rashidi & Ridzuan

Zakaria, Salleh, Shahafeez, Firdaus & Rafidi

Nadia & Mohammed Shahafeez

Azira, Nadia, Ros & Salila

Wan, Rahman, Shahafeez, Fadil & Eddy

Rashidi & Mila

Awin, Iza, Nadia, Haniza & Fazrina

Huzri, Wan, Shahafeez, Iqwan & Farid

104 October 2012

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Latin Quarter Nights The Latin Quarter at Par's International Hotel in Juffair was the place to be to enjoy an evening of some cool Latino music and dancing

Kabir, Uday & Ricardo

Yeison, Sandra, Chechy, Marhareth & Stuarts

Diana & Eli

Nancy & Miguel

The band at Latin Quarter

Killa, Ricky, Miguel, Jaime & Any

Shannon & Ashley

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DJ Arwin & Eli

Nicki & Rob

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Paul Sarlas Farewell Party The Bahrain Family Leisure Company hosted a farewell party for general manager Paul Sarlas at Cucina Italiana in Juffair

Paul & Mithun

Cynthia, Tanya, Wally & Nelson

Sampath, Paul, Kuruvilla, Renjith & Lal

Tanya, Paul & Cynthia

106 October 2012

Mohammed & Paul

Staff members with Paul

Chloie, Leny & Beth

Jona, Julie & Marivic

Paul & Nigesh

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Steve Madden Store Opening

Across the Middle East and Around the Globe

The Al Rashid Group held a ribbon cutting to mark the launch of the first Steve Madden Store at the Bahrain City Centre last month Shaikha Hind opens the store

Mai & Alison Majid, Zafar & Kamal

Oxana & Svetlana

Andrea, Elizabeth & Naeem

Vikas, Santosh, Shaikha Marwa, Shaikha Hind & Duaij Al Rumaihi

Bringing you the latest models of cars to travel through the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain.

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

Salam, Rajeev, Jacques, Kamal & Nasser

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

www.national-bahrain.com Damian & Majid

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Liji & Divya

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LPOD African Acrobats Show The Lost Paradise of Dilmun (LPOD) Waterpark gave members of the media a sneak preview to the spectacular African Acrobats Show last month

Reem

Mayukh & Randa

Members of the African Acrobats team

Alison & Sari

Members of the media with Isa & Cristina

The acrobats in action

Brian Tracy PRESENTS

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108 October 2012

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Internations.Org 5th Anniversary InterNations - a trusted Network & Guide for Expats in Bahrain held a reception for members to mix and mingle with fellow expats and global minds to mark the organisations 5th anniversary.

The event was held at the Mรถvenpick Hotel last month

Burak & Gizem

Nizar, Julia, Heinz & Claudia

Ted, Chantal, Amyera & Dunia

Roger & Sumaya

Jasmine, Philipp & Rocio

J&J

Alexander, Christa & Segene

Luca & Huwayda

Soumaya, Maryna & Umssiah

Heinz & Marion

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Tvisha's 8th Birthday Party Shivani & Dinesh Arora hosted a party for family & friends to celebrate the 8th birthday of their daughter Tvisha. The parrty was held at Lanterns Restaurant

Shivani, Tvisha & Aryan

Varun, Aadil & Dinesh

Param & Jaffar

Tvisha & her friends

Khalil, Mrs Ali & Hana

110 October 2012

Rishab & Aryan

Poonam, Vijay & Bob

Suhani, Bushra & Seema

Asif & Dinesh

Purvaja & Tvisha

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Aurobindo Pharma Launch Aurobindo Pharma Ltd launched its operations in Kingdom of Bahrain through a grand event held in Diplomat Raddison Blu, Residence & Spa The event was inaugurated by the Mr. Rajender Kumar, AttachĂŠ to the Indian Embassy. Senior dignitaries from the Ministry of Health were present along with large representation by the medical fraternity Suresh, Rajender Kumar, Dr Rajeev Lochan, Vishu Sriram, Jayapal Reddy, Ramana & Vince Thomas

Rajender Kumar & Dr Rajeev Lochan

Dana, Shaikha, Dr Wafa & Dr Bahia

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Mohammed, Dr Khalid & Shivakumar

Dr Saad & Dr Alia

Abdul Rahim & Suresh Das

Rania & Khazi

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This is Business on the Move!

Travelling in style is what you would expect from a luxury brand. With the Bentley Mulsanne you can work in complete luxury from the comfort of your car.

Bentley Motors has taken the idea of a mobile office to another level with the introduction of the Mulsanne Executive Interior specification. This offers an impressive array of bespoke business, comfort and entertainment features, designed to help the passenger continue working on the move or just to unwind between meetings.

Moreover, it’s all beautifully integrated into the sumptuous and comfortable cabin which takes Bentley’s craftsmen and women over 170 hours to create.

The Mulsanne rear passengers receive individual Apple iPad workstations with full Internet access, integrated into retractable picnic tables. A large, drop-down LED screen ensures that a wide selection of movies as well as television can be enjoyed as well.

Renowned for its painstaking attention to detail, Bentley has added a range of finishing touches including a Tibaldi fountain pen from its specially commissioned collection. This is handveneered to match the veneer in the car and is discretely stowed in the centre armrest.

For the first time in a Bentley a distinctive yachting-style veneer, which blends light and dark contrasting tones, is featured throughout the cabin.

“Many customers use their time in the Mulsanne to keep on top of their business commitments or simply take a few moments to relax,” comments Chris Buxton, regional director Also this month

for Bentley Middle East. “This fully functioning specification helps busy executives to communicate effectively and quickly while travelling.”

Key entertainment and business features include two electric-powered, foldable wood veneer picnic tables in the rear cabin, each with Apple iPad and Bluetooth keyboards. The iPads provide access, via an on-board wireless router, to email and social media, web browsing, interactive gaming and video calls (where network speeds allow).

An Apple Mini Mac stored in an electrically-deployed boot compartment allows TV, movies or office software to be displayed on the 15.6-inch monitor. An iPod acts as a control panel in the rear console.

Customised control keys here operate picnic tables, reading lights, control HD LED screen and select video and audio options. The rear armrest houses the Tibaldi pen and a ‘Privacy Telephone’ handset as standard while an optional extra is the bottle cooler in the rear centre console keeping drinks cold behind an illuminated, double-glazed glass door.

The Mulsanne’s beautifully balanced proportions convey a unique sense of dynamism and movement. These are reinforced by muscular haunches and sharply sculpted, gracefully flowing lines, hinting at the phenomenal levels of power and torque that are in reserve at all times.

In common with all Bentley vehicles, customers of the Executive Interior Specification have the opportunity to create a truly personalised car from a palette of over 100 colours, a class-leading choice of unbleached premium quality veneers and marquetry options, and a selection of 25 leather hides.

When? October 1, 15 and 29 Event? Drag and drift Venue? BIC Take the drag racer inside you for an adrenalin-fuelled spin!

E Call 17 450-000.

When? October 18-19 Event? BDRC Venue? BIC The new season of the Bahrain Drag Racing Championship starts this month!

E Call 17 450-000.

When? October 20 Event? Championship Venue? BIC Cheer on the champions of tomorrow from the BIC 2000cc series.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? October 28 Event? Track Xperience Venue? BIC Take a spin in one of the BIC’s four most exciting vehicles.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? October 29 Event? Open Track Venue? BIC Be a racer for a day at this Open Track Day event!

E Call 17 450-000.

101 x Showcase

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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motoring

Ford Fusion

ALMOAYYED MOTORS

Proven Performer Good news for car buyers, there’s a special promotion running on the popular Ford Fusion model.

114 October 2012

The Ford Fusion is one of the bestselling in the midsize sedan segment in the Middle East, continuing to earn rave reviews from customers. Available through the exclusive local distributor, Almoayyed Motors, you can now acquire your own Fusion with competitive pricing that starts at BD7,195.

What’s more, when you purchase a Fusion you will receive an impressive free gift — the latest iPad3 — as a result of a special promotion currently available.

“Thanks to the class-leading features, Ford Fusion is one of the most popular and decorated Ford models,” says Sandeep Mathur, general manager at Almoayyed Motors. “Continuous improvements in terms of quality and comfort, together with smart and safety features, have made Fusion a favourite among car enthusiast. Our special offer provides customers with an affordable and rewarding opportunity to buy one.”

The Fusion’s world-class feature package includes AdvanceTrac, Ford SYNC, cruise control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) a 12-speaker Sony audio system and 17-inch alloy wheels.

AdvanceTrac is an electronic stability control system with brake-actuated traction to avoid skidding on slippery terrains such as sandy pavements. The SYNC technology connects and synchronises your phone, MP3, USB or iPod at the touch of a button on the steering wheel. BLIS senses and warns you when a vehicle may be in your way when you change lanes.

Award winner Ford Fusion has been accorded prestigious awards since its debut. The car received the Most Dependable Midsize Car and the Highest Rating in Overall Initial Quality titles by the renowned J.D. Power & Associates.

Underlining the build quality of the cars, Ford offers a threeyear (60,000km) warranty and a five-year (100,000km) power terrain warranty in addition to 24-hour roadside assistance.

Customers can visit the Ford showroom at Sitra to arrange for a test drive. E Call 17 737-373.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Sixt rent a car, Bahrain’s leading rent a car & lease company has reached an agreement with one of the top trading houses in Bahrain, the Al Moayed Group to cater to their entire fleet requirements. Seen here are Bin Hindi & Al Moayed Group officials

Al Haddad Motors, exclusive distributors of Mercedes Benz in Bahrain welcomes Paul Lomax as After-Sales manager & Jamie Frame as Worshop manager, seen here with Graeme Newport, general manager, Al Haddad Motors Ahmed Zayani & Sons, sole distributors for the SKODA brand in the Kingdom of Bahrain presented an all new SKODA FABIA to the winner Hasan Mohamed Yusuf Mansoor at their Zinj showroom on Shaikh Salman Highway last month. The SKODA FABIA was the grand prize for the winner of the popular Bahrain Television show “Al Barasti” that was aired exclusively during the Holy Month of Ramadan which was sponsored by Ahmed Zayani & Sons WLL. Seen here, the winner with Riyadh Al Zayani, managing director, 3rd from left and Ahmed Zayani & Sons SKODA team members

Elite Hospitality Group awarded Kalaam Telecom, an integrated telecom solutions provider, a three year contract to provide a centrally and fully-managed dedicated internet service for Elite Group's four All Suites Hotels and three Luxury Residences on the island. At the signing ceremony are, Srinivas Arumugam, Network Infrastructure manager, Kalaam Telecom, Sarosh Aibara, chief operating officer, Elite Hospitality Group, Veer Passi, CEO Kalaam Telecom & Avinash Phandis, CFO, Elite Hospitality Group

116 October 2012

HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, Minister of Industry & Commerce opened the U Make We Bake Restaurant in Seef Mall last month. The restaurant is the only one of its kind that allows diners to have a hand on experience of making and enjoying their own Italian meal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

reporthomefurnishing

A Seasonal Revamp

alison coldridge The autumn-winter change of season brings with it new interiors’ inspiration.

Whether your style is classic or contemporary, you will unearth furnishing options that are perfect for your home.

In the cooler months, the dark hours are elongated and fierce winds keep us in our homes. Although there are the odd days where it is enjoyable to sit outside, it makes more sense to revamp your indoor space to create a look that you love to come home to and you’re happy to stay enveloped in.

Although there aren’t definitive ‘trends’ as there are within the fashion world, home furnishing stores do develop new colour schemes and updated design styles and shapes biannually. Home owners are subsequently given the chance to move with the times and update their homes accordingly.

The new season displays a definite nod towards the past as nostalgic furnishings and accessories are incorporated into modern layouts, whilst woods, leather and metals are frequent textures of choice creating a more rustic and urban feel to designs. Plus, pops of colour and single-statement pieces are key, to enrich a minimalist room with some va-va-voom.

And, again, Bahrain’s selection doesn’t disappoint. The large number of interior showrooms presents even the most demanding shopper with copious furnishing options.

Almoayyed Furnishings In keeping with the times, a strong sense of modernity fills the new season collections at Almoayyed Furnishings. Traditional styles are manufactured with contemporary finishes and colourful touches to create a range that exudes eclectic glamour.

Also this month

Many of the brand’s items are available in off-white, which appears to be a dominant colour of the season; or if you prefer your furniture to be in darker hues then opt for differing shades of oak.

Despite the wide range of options, if you still aren’t sure what style would suit your living space and personality then let the professionals lend a hand. Almoayyed Furnishings offers a design service that comprises of a team of dedicated professionals who advise, design and create interior spaces which are visually harmonious and filled with expression.

E Call 17 400-004.

BoConcept BoConcept has a new style direction this autumn-winter, called ‘In Transition’. It’s about being in the middle of a transitional phase and moving from one thing to another. The trend captures a lot of positivity, but also thoughtfulness, and is divided into two collections — ‘Formal Style’ and ‘Casual Style’.

‘Formal Style’ depicts the classic style of the 1950s and 1960s, presenting the reserved and retro furnishing options you would expect to see on the set of Mad Men. Alternatively, the ‘Classic Style’ items are far more outgoing and modern, for those who seek to liven up their interior.

BoConcept’s colour scheme is varied: natural woods with a raw finish are challenged by petrol blue, camel, rust red, jade green, purple and even neon hues. E Call 17 564-319.

120 x Phoencia Decor - 121 x Roche Bobois - 122 x BoConcept

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reporthomefurnishing

Phoenicia Décor Stocking a range of different designers’ items in its Seef showroom, Phoenicia Décor offers its customers variety more than ever this season. Contemporary and unfussy, the company’s new products nevertheless maintain traditional values. Spacious sofas in dark leather and widespread bookshelves are inviting, cosy and very family-orientated, adhering to the nostalgic trend that is in abundance.

Sparse separate pieces provide the strong injection of modernity required in a home. Contemporary lighting designs and single-seated armchairs are created in monochrome shades, contrasting with the deep browns seen on other furnishing options. Texture is also instrumental; rich fabric rugs provide a base for urban coffee tables and quilted seating options.

E Call 17 564-444.

Roche Bobois At Roche Bobois, a furniture piece above all conveys a unique character with multiple personalities; the personality of the designer and the personal touch given by the purchaser.

The current collection blurs the lines between ‘outdoor’ and ‘indoor’, with all types of pieces crafted from rough and unsmoothed woods.

118 October 2012

An element of fun and quirkiness is also instrumental in the autumn-winter items. Brightly-coloured foam-filled chairs and a bedroom set, complete with an optional lighting feature, prove that including almost futuristic elements into a room’s décor can relieve tension whilst providing a talking point!

If you do opt for bright tones then be sure to match them with monochrome base colours. Don’t overdo it! E Call 17 582-901.

The Closets Whatever your own personal taste in décor, everyone can agree that clutter is not a good look. Dispel mess and start the new season fresh with a clean and tidy environment to live in by investing in high-quality storage space.

At The Closets you can help design a wardrobe that suits both you and your living space, providing your input in every element of design from the materials used to the styling of the hinges. You’ll be surprised at the clever ways in which the team can build you exactly what you have in mind in the space and area that you present to them.

You will be left with more space and a beautifully-crafted wardrobe that accentuates the room, instead of looking out of place as most do. E Call 17 277-010 (Salmaniya), 17 673-214 (Arad) or 17 622-610 (Sanad).

www.bahrainthismonth.com

reporthomefurnishing

Nicolaus

Avana

Novecento

PHOENICIA DÉCOR

Welcome Home The new season provides the opportunity to breathe life into the home with fresh styles, shapes and colours that reflect your personality and make your house into a home.

120 October 2012

The Natuzzi range available at Phoenicia Décor enables you to create that beautiful and elegant home that you have been longing for. The brand has a fresh new range of furnishing sets, separates and accessories in the Seef showroom, presenting a number of different interior styling options.

The Avana sofa is ideal if you wish to fashion a clean-cut and modern look in your main living area. The closed-base model features generous proportions and a linear, square shape complete with visible stitching and a metallic edge to the armrests. The headrests have been designed to be both comfortable and elegant and can be manually adjusted to suit your relaxation pose of choice.

Or, if you are more inclined towards darker hues and oak wood, then opt for the Nicolaus sofa. Furnished with a soft touch mechanism, the seat and backrest position can be altered to achieve perfect comfort. The external sides of the armrests and backrest are entirely quilted for a stylish flair.

The Novecento range contains compact storage solutions that add to the classic style of any room. With a duo of wall units and an expansive ‘library’ bookcase, this line of products will proudly

Libreria Proxima

display your coveted books, accessories and ornaments in a neat manner. You can add to your library-intended space with a floor lamp to create the maximum amount of light possible.

Alternatively, select the Profumo style which boasts a square shade and black base or the curved metal Wisdom lamp.

The Proxima bookshelf is a more modern alternative to the items available in the Novecento range. Completely exposed and with no backboard, this style has a geometric shape made up of five transparent tempered-glass shelves.

E Call 17 564-444.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROCHE BOBOIS

Your Utopian Home Browse the new-season designs to accustom yourself to the possibilities available for your home. With so many different styles on offer, there is something for every home owner.

Showcasing collections from numerous talented European designers, architects and creators, Roche Bobois is devoted to its mission of designing contemporary furniture. Due to the large numbers of designers which Roche Bobois collaborates with, the company offers you the unique experience of browsing a huge variety of differing styles until you find the pieces that suit you perfectly.

The newest collections are just what one would expect from the reputable brand — innovative, fresh and desirable.

Inject some colour Sit back and relax in the Spoutnik armchairs; available in various colours, the contemporary chairs are the brainchild of Sacha Lakic. Manufactured on a wood structure, the sofa is made using bi-density polyester fibre foam and entirely upholstered in a removable jersey fabric

Moonlight Bed Spoutnik

Grand dining If you love to play host, you must have a dining room that impresses your guests. French design duo Pierre Dubois and Aimé Cécil Noury have created the Grand Hotel collection, a range of exquisite dining room furnishings. The rectangular table is crafted from ash veneer on slatted wood with a solid ash base and silver-plated feet and can be accompanied by matching chairs.

Also included in the range is a large sideboard table, ideal for holding decorations such as candles or for using as additional serving space.

A soothing sleep Milanese designer and architect Luigi Gorgoni has unveiled the Moonlight Bed collection. As always, Luigi’s new design conveys the aim of creating the perfect harmony between function, form and structure, resulting in a minimalistic yet cosy look.

Constructed from solid wood and oak veneer, and with a natural or wenge finish, the bed features a frame, headboard and platform. However the design element that is truly advanced is the optional lighting feature that can be inbuilt into the bed’s platform — a way to truly impress guests! The set can be selected with a matching nightstand with three drawers.

E Call 17 582-901.

Grand Hotel collection

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reporthomefurnishing

BOCONCEPT

New Nostalgia Vintage styles exuding comfort and reassurance are interspersed with modern and edgy designs in a new-season home furnishing collection.

122 October 2012

We are in a time of transition. When the future is unsure, we react in different ways. Maybe we look back to the well known, or maybe we choose to look forward with optimism. Whatever the reaction, BoConcept translates the trends of the time in its new collection for 2013.

It is clear that the appearance of the home has grown in importance and the look of the home also displays the longing for old virtues and traditions. The new collection mainly looks back to the 50s and 60s with the American ‘Mad Men’ TV series as the perfect reference.

In the BoConcept 2013 collection you find many stylish pieces matching this trend. The sofa is comfortable yet still elegant.

The choice of material defines the look in the room; exclusive black leather for that formal and elegant look or a petrol blue for a more feminine setting. The coffee table combines two types of wood and is used to display elegant glass vases and designer books.

Arm chairs and dining chairs have a classic, clean look where the focus is on comfort. Colours are deep and mature and beautifully coordinated for a stylish, well-balanced look.

The other strong trend this coming season is a look based on the German Bauhaus style, featuring graphic lines and signal colours. It is casual, optimistic and playful and mixes prints, patterns and colours in unexpected ways.

The look is very much defined by the use of accessories — a

personal mix of cushions in funny shapes and edgy prints in the modular sofa, quirky sculptures in natural materials and metal lamps with an industrial look. A book case in a bright blue combined with other wall units in white adds a touch of freshness to this casual, inspirational look.

No matter if you are swayed by old virtues and a classic look or you feel adventurous and want to incorporate bright colours and humorous sculptures, you will find lots of great inspiration in Bahrain’s BoConcept store, located in Seef. Here you can pick up the brand’s new inspiring design catalogue or alternatively visit the brand’s website.

E Call 17 564-319, email info@boconcept-bh.com or visit www.boconcept.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningthismonth

Café Delices

Sweet Temptations The Gulf Hotel has been a destination of amazing gastronomy and fine eateries for many decades.

Now it’s added yet another outlet to its repertoire, Café Delices.

Offering the latest in food trends, the Gulf Hotel justifiably remains at the forefront of the local culinary scene with the launch of Café Delices — a modern, chic café and pastry shop.

Situated inside the Gulf Executive Residences building, this new venue is a glass-enclosed, vibrant and clean modern pastry shop that would not be out of place on any street in most European cities.

Featuring international patisserie, the finest viennoiserie, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, cookies, biscotti and colourful French macarons, with a variety of flavours, Café Delices offers a full menu for continental breakfast, brunch, lunch and midafternoon snacks.

With a separate area for those who prefer to smoke as they dine, the café is well lit, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and wood finishes. Sleek, comfortable and spacious seating make it a pleasurable dining venue; a perfect place to spend some time with your favourite book, to think over coffee or to meet friends for an early lunch.

Open from 7am till 7pm, Café Delices’ friendly staff and an on-site chef prepare sandwiches and light meals to order. Crisp, clean, and fresh not only describes the outlet but the food served within it as well. Try the quiche and salad, soup of the day, Also this month

baguettes, toasted sandwiches, open faced sandwiches, wraps and focaccio, and you will understand the appeal.

Lunch here is affordable as well, starting at BD2.8++ per person for most light meals.

With a renowned pastry chef in residence at the Gulf Hotel, there is little the Café Delices cannot do. Indulge in delicious pastries, freshly-baked cookies, exquisite macarons and homemade chocolates, or order your customised special-occasion cake. Samples of the exquisite work are on display and staff are happy to assist with any requirements.

For those seeking a simple recharge try a cup of freshly brewed coffee, or a selection of amazing tchaba teas, iced drinks, fruit smoothies and mocktails. Afternoon tea becomes a grand affair, too, where, from 3pm to 6pm at BD6.9++ per person, one can enjoy a three-tiered display of the finest pastries, sandwiches and cakes.

Sure to tempt most palates, there’s duck liver pâté on crunchy rye, smoked salmon cream cheese with dill on dark rye, French brie on water crackers and traditional egg and cucumber sandwiches. For an extra slice of indulgence, opt for the freshly baked scones, with jam and cream, and English fruit cake.

Nothing could be more pleasurable.

Café Delices is by far the sweetest outlet within the Gulf Hotel, and one that is sure to be a popular treat for us all once word spreads of the amazing delights to be found within.

When? October 1-15 Event? Food promotion Venue? Plums, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Enjoy Chef Carlos Rodriguez’ dinner specials — something not to be missed.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? October 1-31 Event? Food festival Venue? Spices Indian Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Taste the food of the royals in India during the Lucknowi dum biryani festival here.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? October 1-31 Event? Food promotion Venue? China Garden, Gulf Hotel Chef Wang shows you his skill at sizzling seafood preparations all month long.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? October 1-30 Event? Food promotion Venue? Soie, Sheraton Hotel Bahrain Here’s your chance to try the Touban style jumbo shrimp and Choy’s stewed shrimps.

E Call 17 533-533.

E Call 17 713-000 or visit www.gulfhotelbahrain.com.

126 x Happenings - 135 x Restaurant Listing

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October 2012 125

diningf&bhappenings When? 4-12, 27, 31 Event? Food festival Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa From cooking classes to an Italian food fest and a seafood promotion, they’ve got it all.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? October 13-15 Event? Food festival Venue? Le Jardin, Ramada Bahrain Celebrate the joy of sharing in the season of harvest at the Autumn Fair promotion here.

E Call 17 742-000.

When? October 14-17 Event? Michelin chef promotion Venue? Mövenpick Hotel It isn’t always that you get to taste Philippe Bardau’s creations.

Hurry before he’s gone.

E Call 17 460-000.

When? October 23 Event? Think pink campaign Venue? Camelot The mini-castle’s Grape Escape night goes pink with a special set menu and beverages.

E Call 39 977-540.

When? October 31 Event? Halloween brunch Venue? Golden Tulip It doesn’t matter if you can’t go trick or treating. They’ve set up a lavish feast for you.

E Call 17 535-000.

The Foodies’ Calendar With the weather picking up, dining outdoors is back on the itinerary. Here’s our line-up of new venues worth the visit and other interesting dining events.

New in town Just when Bahrain’s dining scene was starting to look a little too predictable, an architectural wonder rose within the streets of Riffa. The Walk is finally open and it boasts a second branch of Tea Club and a coffee shop, Café 222. For the fine diners, another jewel has popped up within the 338 district. Find the best of Asian cuisine and interiors at Meisei, located near NYIT. Also in the vicinity, Lanterns’ second outlet is said to be ready by the end of the month. Meanwhile, an Italian venue has taken shape in Adliya. Pomodorini, from the same group that brought you Panasia, boasts an interesting menu and a casual ambience.

Away from the dining neighbourhood, Potbelly Sandwiches has finally opened near the food court at Bahrain City Centre.

We also spotted a new Chili’s outlet at Amwaj and an expanded Burger King in Juffair.

The K Hotel understands your love for meat and has launched the K Lounge Bistro and Grill. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa has reopened their Arabic restaurant, Pashawat.

After half a year of intense renovation, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain has unveiled a stunning gourmet lounge. Catering to Bahrain’s love for desserts, Gulf Hotel has a pastry haven to offer called Café Delices.

On the menu Crowne Plaza launches a new dining concept in La Mosaique.

The executive set lunch promotion is available on all working days from noon at BD8.5++. Café Marisol at Al Bander Hotel & Resort has an international lunch buffet promotion as well.

What we’re completely excited about is the Friday brunch at

126 October 2012

Bushido. It’s about time Japanese cuisine lovers got what they wanted. Also, Chef Chong’s all-new Experience menu is just the thing for newcomers to understand the exclusive flavours that the kitchen here can bring to the table.

Not very far away, Trader Vic’s celebrates a new menu in the spirit of autumn. Find out what Chef Andy has in store for you.

We hear they now serve light options for weight watchers under a Lifestyle menu. Muju, at The Dragon Hotel & Resort, has a treat for epicureans with Quintin Mannar behind the stove and an eclectic new menu that focuses on the use of fresh produce. Italian venues aren’t far behind with a new menu at Café Italia and the introduction of a tea menu at Cucina Italiana. Skyw@lk Café at Marriott Executive Apartments offers an all-Mexican buffet every Saturday night.

Save the dates You can find food festivals all over town this October beginning with the Lucknowi dum biryani fest in Spices Indian Restaurant at Crowne Plaza. Fiamma at Sofitel Zallaq Bahrain Thalassa Sea & Spa celebrates Italian cuisine from October 4-12; watch out for a cooking class here on October 6 and 27. La Mer, here, will host a food and wine pairing session on October 31 where they will also celebrate scallops from October 6-12.

Apparently, seafood is big this season. China Garden at Gulf Hotel organises a promotion all month long. Soie at Sheraton Bahrain showcases their excellence in shrimp preparations.

Mövenpick Hotel takes it up a notch and brings Michelin star chef, Philippe Bardau, to Bahrain’s soil. Try out his exquisite creations from October 14-17. Be part of the Think Pink campaign and dine at Camelot on October 23.

Plums, at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, is worth a visit with dinner specials on the menu until October 15. You could also try out the Halloween brunch at Golden Tulip.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

HARD ROCK CAFE

Rock Up the Flavour

www.bahrainthismonth.com

It’s one of those brands that we naturally assume has been around ‘forever’; it’s not that long ago that Hard Rock Cafe first opened its doors in the Kingdom.

Hard Rock Cafe Bahrain, on Exhibition road, celebrates its 15th anniversary this month on our island. It’s a brand that is recognised globally, and not just in the Kingdom; there are now 179 ‘Hard Rock’ venues around the world, in 54 countries, including 140 cafes and 18 hotels and casinos.

The ubiquitous restaurant will launch a new menu, globally, reminding us that there is another kind of rock star in this house of Hard Rock — the chefs. It may be the music and memorabilia that initially attracts us, but eventually we stay for the food and the atmosphere. The chefs have become as much an icon of the brand as its musical memorabilia.

The new menu options aim to enhance the Hard Rock Cafe dining experience by treating guests to a concert of fresh flavours. New recipes, a commitment to fresh ingredients and their signature flair, as well as new dishes, ensure that there has been no better time to dine at this eatery in Bahrain. Along with a new design, the menu will feature three main concepts — fresh is first, legendary is king and ‘smoking’ is the key to enhancing flavours.

“We wanted to turn the volume up on our menu options so our fans continue to get a rockin’ experience at the table too,” says Hard Rock’s own culinary rock star, executive chef Jason Gronlund. “Our new menu items show our commitment to serving only the best ingredients and most unique and flavourful recipes to our guests.” E Call 17 291-569.

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TRADER VIC’S

Enhancing Perfection!

For those who believe that Trader Vic’s is perfect and the ultimate destination for fun and fine dining on the island, well, great news; perfection just bettered itself!

128 October 2012

Trader Vic’s Restaurant, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, has seen new executive chef Andy Hoppe at the helm of the kitchen for several months. He has a history with our country; formerly feeding hungry enthusiasts of the BIC through Kafer Catering, he knows our style and what we eat and how we enjoy it.

Reflecting his unique understanding of our likes and desires, he is the first to state that the Trader Vic’s core menu will not change. After all, the restaurant chain has a 75-year history built upon its delicacies; so, backed up by the 30-plus kitchen brigade, his desire is merely to enhance skills and refine of current dishes to make them even better.

While the staple dishes, such a calamari and chilli hammour among others will always remain, Chef Andy has added to this a chef’s suggestion menu. On this, the seasonal flavours, the freshest ingredients and the latest culinary ideas can be sampled and chosen as we desire.

October will bring his new autumn collection of dishes, including chanterelle mushrooms, chorizo sausage and barracuda. Try a savoury tarte flambée of the French Alsace region, tender chicken breast cooked sous-vide with creamy chanterelle mushrooms and freshly grated hash browns, or a dessert of seasonal apple tart to sweeten the end of any evening.

A new Mai Tai This month is also time to celebrate the re-opening of the renewed, revitalised and refreshed Mai Tai Lounge, on October 10, offering an opportunity for Chef Andy to let us try some new bar bites and light snacks.

The ‘new’ lounge will boast changes to everything from the seating to staff uniforms. Its refreshed ambience is certain to charm most of us, on those cooler nights where intimacy and sanctuary can be combined with great food and music.

Completing his culinary additions will be the new lighter menu. Chef Andy will offer a choice of several dishes for those who are watching their calorie or cholesterol in-take, wishing to enjoy the finest cuisine but not to suffer for it.

Trader Vic’s food philosophy has always been to deliver a light touch with the understanding to enhance but never disguise, nor overpower the original taste of the main ingredients. This is coupled with a dedication to using only the finest ingredients from around the world.

Our local Trader Vic’s takes this a step further; under the cooking skills of chef Andy Hoppe, we can enjoy healthier options, tastier seasonal chef’s suggestions and enhanced menus for our ultimate culinary pleasure. E Call 17 586-555.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

When? October 14-17 | Event? Michelin chef promotion | Venue? Mövenpick Bahrain Hotel

MÖVENPICK HOTEL

Inspiring Cuisine The Mövenpick is renowned for its five-star food and service. It is also known for the culinary events it holds throughout the year to tantalise our taste buds further.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

This month Mövenpick’s executive chef, Alfred Zuberbuehler, is proud to play host to French Michelin star chef, Philippe Bardau, from October 14-17, courtesy of Gulf Air and Alba.

The five-course dinner is priced at BD35++ per person and includes a choice of three dishes for each course. Chef Philippe Bardau’s restaurant in Orléans, France has held Michelin stars for several decades, the highest accolade one can attain in French gastronomy.

His style has been stated as daring of traditions, surprising with detail and featuring flavours from everywhere. A true artiste!

“Inviting a chef to our shores from another land and culture serves multiple purposes,” states chef Zuberbuehler, who has the culinary development of our nation at heart.

Firstly, chef Bardau will excite our taste buds, and those of hotel guests, with a series of à la carte dinners, enthralling us with his style of cuisine style that is reflected in his continuous Michelin accreditation.

Secondly, French-speaking food enthusiasts will benefit by being able to work alongside the great chef himself, as he instructs willing participants in several cooking classes on October 15 and 16, in the hotel’s own kitchens. Few of us will ever get the opportunity to cook with a true Michelin Star chef, so this promises to be an exceptional experience.

Priced at just BD16 ++ person, you will enjoy the lunch you help to prepare and receive a certificate to document your experience. Spaces are limited to 12 participants, so book early to avoid any disappointment.

Finally, chef Bardau’s presence is expected to excite those who work within the hotel’s kitchen, instilling a passion for an even higher standard of cuisine amongst an already talented team.

E Call 17 460-000.

Chef Philippe Bardau

French Week An exhibition highlighting unique local sculptures by two famous local artists, Fuad Al Binfalah and Ali Al Mahmeed will be held between October 13-23. Organised by Artlounge, the exhibition of contemporary forms in marble, bronze and wood.

Weekly Delights Monday Seafood Night, with live cooking stations, is priced at BD22.300++ per person. l Italy comes alive on Wednesday nights for BD12.500++ per person, or BD18.200++ inclusive of wines, beer and soft drinks. l On Thursday is Steak Night; a special event for meat lovers offering a selection of certified Angus beef, rib eye and rump and aged-sirloin, charcoal grilled to perfection. All for BD19++ per person, inclusive of wines, beer and soft drinks l The famed Friday Brunch at the Movenpick offers a sumptuous spread of fresh culinary creations by the chef and his team in Silks Restaurant and around the lobby area.

With live cooking stations, brunch is priced at BD23.800++ per adult, from 12:30pm to 4pm. l

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Block 338

BLOCK 338 RESTAURANT

A Refined Experience What better way to make a statement about the impact you intend to make than by naming a restaurant after the area in which it is found?

130 October 2012

When Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge and Gardens was launched in 2010 it changed our concept of relaxed and casual dining. Prior to 338, patios and outdoor dining were confined to tight spaces. With few chairs, most outdoor areas challenged the very meaning of ‘al fresco’ dining and the external space it requires.

Block 338 re-wrote the rule book in this regard and gave us a sensational area of grass which many of us miss in this dry desert landscape. As perfect, though, as it was, the restaurant has recently undergone a major upgrade during Ramadan, making it even better, refreshed and more chic and modern.

Taking what was once a simple villa and turning it into an art piece was the first stage; today the interiors of the revitalised Block 338 are truly sublime. Gone are darkened corners and the entire restaurant now boasts a lighter and larger dining area.

What was once a series of separate dining experiences, via variously designed and decorated ‘rooms’, has been transformed into smoking and non-smoking areas. The open restaurant, upon entry, has clothed tables; beyond this is a glass-enclosed bar and

relaxation area together with the separate dining areas.

Complementing such a fantastic dining establishment is its menu, a culturally diverse offering sporting a hybrid of tastes melding Mediterranean influences with European elements to produce a very modern dining experience.

Starters, soups and salads include tapenade and sundried tomato and cured meat; there is salmon carpaccio or buratta cheese with prices starting from BD2.3. Pizzas and platters allows ‘dining’ to be shared and fun, as do dishes such as wagyu beef skewers, crispy arancini balls and BBQ octopus, all priced between BD4 to BD6.

Block 338 specials, BBQ, rotisserie and burgers, large and small, round out the menu and range in cost from BD5.7 to BD20 for a cowboy steak.

Open for lunch from 12 noon to 2pm, the restaurant has a separate lunch menu with prices as low as BD2 to BD6.

Regular live entertainment, happy hours and an outdoor bar ensure that Block 338 is not only the place to be seen in Bahrain, but one to have fun and great food in equal measure.

E Call 17 710-338.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

LEILA RESTAURANT

Keeping It Authentic Once described as the French Mediterranean of the Middle East, Lebanon has a fond place in the hearts and minds of many within this region, as does its cuisine.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Leila Restaurant, at the Al Aali Shopping Complex, is a fine example of the beautiful architecture and atmosphere of a bygone opulent and luxurious era.

Split between three levels and a new outdoor patio dining area, the restaurant is accessible from either the external pedestrian walkway or from the second floor of the mall.

Looks often belie a venue’s seating capacity; what seems small and quaint actually seats over 150 guests, with private dining rooms for meetings or family gatherings.

The Lebanese recipes and food are as authentic as one can get, thanks, in part, to the efforts of restaurant manager Ayman Daou and executive chef Ali Fares. Moreover, both have lived in Bahrain for numerous years and know what we eat and how we like our dining experience.

The authenticity and quality of this fine restaurant reflect the values of the Kharafi Global Group, who have also brought us the highly-successful Nino Italian Restaurant and Johnny Rockets. As with Nino’s, key features of Leila are its understanding of value for money, the use of the finest ingredients, and sourcing key ingredients from the home of the cuisine itself — Lebanon.

Ice-cream, spices, flavourings and drinks are just a few key ingredients imported to ensure absolute authenticity. Add to this

a menu, which features a light, healthy section, including light beverages, and you have the makings of a truly successful establishment that cares about its customers.

Chef Ali highlights the use of the best US-grade beef and the best cuts of lamb for the dishes, and home-made breads and desserts which are made on the premises daily.

“Affordable quality and the best-tasting Lebanese cuisine is what Leila is all about,” he says.

Showing his understanding of modern tastes, he reminds me that both hot and cold mezze dishes are the original form of tapas. “With a wide selection of both, a table or group could experience many flavours of Lebanon at one seating, for an extremely reasonable price,” Ali adds.

Light meals, fresh salads, home-made hummus, imported ingredients, hot and cold mezze, grills and oven-baked delicacies, that fill the senses with aromas and flavours like few others, are what make Leila a standout venue.

Having only recently celebrated its first anniversary on our shores, the restaurant offers not just lunch, dinner or home delivery but also opens early enough for breakfast, from 9.30am.

Closing at midnight, Leila cooks up a wide range of delicious dishes — to start or finish your day — with some of the best Lebanese cuisine our island has to offer. E Call 17 566-556.

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diningf&bhappenings THE K HOTEL

Making a Steakment!

The K Hotel has set itself a target with the launch of newer, bigger and better dining venue, to be the premier steak restaurant in the Kingdom.

LANTERNS RESTAURANT

Lanterns Lounge and Restaurant, in Adliya’s 338 food district, will be one of the largest dining venues at 800 square metres with all the touches that made the original Lanterns so endearing.

“The iconic Lanterns of 27 years remains on the Budaiya Highway and will always remain open,” says the Lanterns Group managing director, Lalit Kapur. “Guests will still enjoy the same vibrant interiors, with a dedicated lounge featuring the signature truck bar, a main restaurant with enhanced seating capacity, a garden patio, a smoking section and a rooftop sky bar.”

Favourites such as the Monday night buffet, Friday brunch and other traditions will remain but there will new culinary touches as well.

“Showcasing the modern fusion of Indian cuisine and the universal flavours of other lands, our aim is not to change the identity of the food but to present it in a modern format with, for instance, tapas-style options,” adds Lalit.

With over 33 years in Bahrain, Lalit speaks effortlessly about his vision for Lanterns future. “We are guided by the loyalty and feedback of our customers; they are the Lanterns extended family,” he says. That family will be happy to know that Lanterns Express outlets and Lanterns Lounge restaurants may also follow.

While the success of any restaurant must be the right food, Lanterns has all of the five keys required — quality food, an enticing ambience, pricing that is correctly pitched, attentive service and well-trained staff.

Add to this mix a large new venue in the heart of the Adliya dining area for us all to enjoy, and Lanterns certainly has the keys to success well in hand. E Call 17 590-591.

A Fusion of Styles By month’s end we will have not one but two of the famed Lanterns Restaurants from which to choose when seeking the finest Indian cuisine in the land.

Risotto rice balls with cottage cheese

132 October 2012

Managed by the Gulf Hotel Group, The K Hotel is leveraging the reputation of its ‘manager’ for delivering a superior quality of dining outlets. Situated in the lobby of the hotel, The K Lounge Bistro and Grill offers an upscale ambience and a level of comfort that combines the aura of a traditional steakhouse dining with a contemporary and warm environment.

To emphasis this modern outlook, the walls are adorned with nouveau art pieces sure to strike an interesting juxtaposition for anyone who has an eye for the liberal arts. It will certainly be a topic of conversation, in the same way the collection of belts from the pugilistic arts offers in the Champions Lounge.

Featuring delicious Angus beef fillet to aged bone-in rib eye steaks, the restaurant boasts an exquisite menu featuring innovative dishes, and the most delicious gourmet steaks.

Moreover, the commitment of chefs is such that they ensure all dishes are made with the freshest, premium ingredients from around the world, and complemented by the finest beverages.

For those in search of a memorable dining experience, The K Lounge Bistro and Grill delivers a premium quality steakhouse where delicious, hearty food and an energising atmosphere.

This exclusive lounge and dining room is a perfect combination to be enjoyed by friends, family or business associates for all occasions.

E Call 17 360-000 or visit www.thekhotel.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Camelot Restaurant

CAMELOT RESTAURANT

A Modern Affair Many restaurants try to find themes to please customers. Camelot uses medieval folklore to encapsulate our senses, to make us fall in love with them, their food and the idea of the knights of the roundtable.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

More like the interiors of a stately British home or French Chateau, Camelot Restaurant is recognisable, with its castlelike tower and large oak door, as one drives down the highway adjacent to Adliya’s dining district.

Enter through the large front door and one is embraced with a world long forgotten. Stone floors, ancient spiral staircase, wondrous chandeliers, wrought iron fixtures, swords and large armchairs make it easy to be transported to a time long past, far from the modern rush. While Camelot the story of our youth might differ greatly, Camelot the restaurant captures the essence of old-world aristocracy, feudal times and ornate decor at its best.

Seating is comfortable and for couples modern tables are arranged for intimacy; for larger groups there is a wonderful central ‘long table’ where you can sit on stools and ‘be merry’ together. Eating here has touches of old-school fine dining, long lost in many newer establishments.

A main dining room, a bar lounge and an outdoor glassed terrace, up the spiral staircase, prove, by seating capacity alone, how popular and busy Camelot still can be, offering plenty of variety even for regular guests.

Gone are menus of paper, except for the wine menu. An iPad brightly and clearly shows and describes the menu — pictures are clear, descriptions are precise and handling of the device is

effortless. The ‘menu’ itself features an eclectic mix of dishes.

While French cuisine is the main theme, Arabic touches, Mediterranean-inspired fare and Spanish tapas sit comfortably alongside classic French dishes.

On my first trip to Camelot in seven years, I opted for the classic French dish of ‘coq au vin’ and apple tarte tatin to see how French, classic French is these days. Without a doubt, it was one of the best such dishes I have eaten. With the perfect amount of flavour throughout, it was accompanied by braised and marinated with mushrooms and fresh herbs on mashed potatoes.

Dessert, too, did not fail either; the apple tarte tatin was nothing short of perfect. I find a kitchen that can do the classics and the simple well are the best in which to dine. Overall, it was Camelot’s perfection of both which won me over.

The menu is balanced by an evolving wine list, and the entire experience is complemented with multiple theme nights and entertainment options. Monday nights feature a combination of ‘moules et frites’ and live acoustic music. Wine tasting is on Tuesdays, Wednesdays has a special for ladies and on Thursdays both lunch and dinner are served. Friday is celebrated with all-day breakfast, from 8am in the morning.

No matter the occasion, old-world charm and perfectly cooked food make this themed restaurant simply parfait.

E Call 39 977-540.

October 2012 133

diningf&bhappenings CAFÉ ITALIA RESTAURANT

Modern Tastes Perfection rarely needs change but the multi-award-winning Café Italia Restaurant is rewarding patrons with a brand new menu this October.

RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Autumn Flavours Celebrate the new season with a food festival in one venue, while enjoying fresh sounds in another.

Ramada Hotel Bahrain kicks off a food festival for the new season this month; The Autumn Fair runs from October 13 to November 15.

Autumn, being the transitional period summer to winter, and is the season of harvest for many cultures. The festivals surrounding it, such as Thanksgiving, are some of the biggest of the year. The central mood of these celebrations is the joy of sharing the bounty of the land with friends and family.

With one of the most dedicated and experienced culinary teams in the business, the Ramada chefs will be sharing the land’s bounty with us via a celebration of beauty and colours and the distinct tastes of autumn. These will be available at both Le Jardin Restaurant and The Exchange Restaurant & Pub. So, delight your taste buds with carefully selected dishes that accentuate this wonderful time of year.

The home to fine Italian cuisine on the island has changed not only the dishes and the presentation but, better yet, not the prices.

Executive chef Twedi Martatna promises that the famed favourites remain but, along with a modern leatherbound menu, the offerings are easier to differentiate.

Small dishes, signature dishes, hot starters, salads, pizza, risotto, pasta, red meat and poultry, fresh fish, seafood and more all have their own sections with simplistic descriptions making choosing a much easier task.

“Rather than change, it is simply modernising our offering for the current trends of our clientele, with tapas-style small dishes and more modern flavours,” says chef Twedi.

His new menu features such delicacies as devilled salmon cakes with saffron mayonnaise, Bahamian lobster with cucumber and ginger, salad of blue swimmer crab and wilted greens, wagyu beef risotto with porcini mushrooms and white truffle oil, and angel hair pasta with veal bacon, cilantro and asparagus.

Café Italia has always stayed current, a reason why it now has three outlets across the country — the flagship in Adliya’s Block 338 and two outlets at Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall. The best and freshest ingredients, the right wood fire, and the traditional baking by artisan chefs, make their famed pizza irresistible.

The food is modern, light and enjoyable with well-balanced palate-enticing dishes. To round out the perfect meal there such sweet enticements as the new slow-baked figs, panna cotta or caramel date cake.

Open for lunch and dinner Café Italia is the home to real Italian, simply done right.

E Call 17 744-774 (Adliya), 17 582-838 (Seef) or 17 178-595 (Bahrain City Centre).

New sounds!

If music is your forte, then The Exchange Restaurant & Pub will have you rocking with its new band, Mystique. This group plays an eclectic mix of popular hits; its members have all been part of different acts which have astounded Bahrain and other countries in the Middle East.

The ensemble was hand-picked to form this amazing new band that will fire up your evening. Watch them perform live from Sundays to Fridays, from 9pm onwards, and get your party mood on this autumn.

E Call 17 742-000.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

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 Tony Roma's

17 813-750 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 178-464 17 179-041 17 494-940 17 870-070

Asian Chin Li Chop-Chop Tea House Curry Country Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Meisei Memories Mo Kan Monsoon Nu Asia Panasia

17 717-717 17 178-701 17 537-555 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 007-770 17 178-646 17 360-000 17 749-222 17 587-171 17 721-600

Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café World Beat Café

13 667-777 17 363-999 17 612-576

European Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu L’Avenue Mezzaluna Paul Café Sizzlers Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 567-222 17 742-999 17 172-321 17 716-999 17 298-471

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

17 231-996 17 514-400 17 532-250 17 231-106 17 224-357 17 295-540 17 232-382 17 291-655 17 237-768 17 277-665

Fusion Fusions L’Ile

17 746-427 17 845-000

Nando’s Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Zoe

17 825-339 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722 17 713-093 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Med La Mosaique Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

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

International (4 Star Hotel) Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Palm Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Savoy Café Temptations (EGH) Temptations (ESH) Tiffany’s

Papaya Peppers Rice Bowl Thai Chi Tian Wok Yum Chow!

17 697-105 17 717-808 17 179-600 17 179-747 17 717-080 17 636-415 17 744-900

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

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

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

Café Restaurants Café T Camille’s Sidewalk Café Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café

17 750-777 17 339-508 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538

Indian Aachi’s Chettinad Kitchen Akbar Asha’s Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree Hyderabad House It’s Mirchi Lanterns Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Spices The Yellow Chilli

17 233-110 17 296-660 17 179-751 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 720-031 17 727-230 17 590-591 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 531-122 17 580-480

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

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Flair Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu Muju

17 210-012 17 212-900 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160 16 039-800

Arirang Da Rae Jung

17 290-945 17 002-490

Lebanese

17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 296-699 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 827-999 17 565-888 17 558-888 17 716-999

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

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

Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari Leewan Al Khor

17 178-090 17 311-186 16 010-666

Melh Alzad Taza

17 311-170 17 784-997

17 131-111 17 725-414 17 296-660 17 224-000 17 280-111 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 711-772 17 567-222 17 506-070 17 179-500 17 312-700 17 365-055 17 311-280 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

Middle Eastern

Iranian Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Korean

Totally Fish Waves

17 179-757 17 531-122

Shawarma Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Relais De Venise Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 17 567-222 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Hash House Lanna Thai Muay Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 312-006 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Anatolia Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi

17 690-601 17 292-950 17 172-322

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

Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vapiano Veneto

17 533-666 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 587-878 17 697-552 17 713-710 17 534-567 17 001-317 17 636-363 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 723-818 17 491-391 17 680-967

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

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-336 17 725-638 17 533-450 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429 17 178-084 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Moroccan Momo Le Marrakech

17 180-659 17 003-273

Pizza Domino's Little Caesars Margherita Pizza and Pasta Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pick a Pizza Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella The Pizza Company

17 826-222 17 179-400 17 723-133 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 720-929 17 742-299 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Afandi Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer La Perle Seafood Market

17 849-111 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008 17 533-336

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland Chickey’s DQ Grill & Chill Elevation Burger EZ Take out Burger Fatburger Hardee’s Herfy Jasmi’s Kentucky Fried Chicken Kudu New York Fries McDonald’s Pollo Campero Tasty Bite

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 178-084 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 221-722 17 161-716 17 714-972

Eating Out listings

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

BTM October 2012 135

bystanderthismonth

Bennigan's 1/2 Way To St Patrick's Bennigan's Restaurant at the Al Safir Hotel, Juffair hosted a 1/2 way to St Patrick's for a number of guests last month

Bennigan's staff with guests

Mike, Mariel, Joyce & Amr

Mike, Lock, Jo & Flynt

Temo, Lush & Chau

Joyce, Vinod, Kate & Amr

LV & Guhyeok

Wally & Tanya

HJ & JH

Maryann & Lij

Mรถvenpick Hotel Dinner Reception A reception was held by Mรถvenpick Hotel to welcome newly appointed Food & Beverage manager Nizar El Lakkis. Guests and members of the media enjoyed a superb Italian buffet at the hotel's Silk Restaurant Nizar, Eilleen, Gordon & Heinz

Sharon, Charlene, Salman, Grace, Theresa & Evangeline

Lena & Heinz

Riina, Sinem & Imbi

Nizar & Tony

136 October 2012

Heinz, Nizar, Sherin, Martina & Samia

Ahmed & Yousif

Nizar & Jessy

Kate & Ashley

Marise & Sumaya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdarkthismonth

The Glam Factor Elma bartholomew Redefine the way you party with the unrivalled energetic sounds of the newest luxury night lounge’s resident DJ Monica Soldan.

Bahrain’s night crawlers can now look forward to a new way to party — in five-star class. Located in the lobby of the lavish Kempinski Ixir Hotel, Bizarre Lounge gave the island’s most stylish party-goers something to gush about last month with its highly anticipated and extravagant grand opening.

From valet parking to high-energy and spectacular handcrafted cocktails, this venue delivers drama and decadence, spiked with luxury, to the delight of the classy partiers.

Interestingly this grand venue is open only three nights of the week, Wednesday to Friday. Now, you’ve more reasons to look forward to the weekend.

Featuring high on the party music menu of this ultra-chic

Also this month

138 x Happenings

www.bahrainthismonth.com

night lounge is resident DJ Monica, who promises to redefine the city’s night life experience through her signature tracks.

Behind the turntable A German descendant born and raised in Brazil, Monica began her career in Sao Paulo, quickly creating a name for herself as a DJ of glamour. A resident in memorable clubs such as Lov.e Club and Skye Bar, she was exposed to enormous media coverage by the Brazilian music press, who immediately fell in love with her deep musical delights. Having previously worked in the fashion industry as a model, it was only a matter of time before the turntablist began playing in the trendiest nightclubs during the largest and most exclusive fashion events in Brazil, including the Sao Paulo Fashion Week. Her events’ list includes MTV, Ford Models, Audi, Formula One, Möet & Chandon and even celebrity parties such as those hosted by Kevin Spacey and Naomi Campbell.

Monica went international in 2005, moving to London, where she played at clubs such as Egg Club, Ministry of Sound and Pacha. Since then, she’s travelled the world, performing in key five-star hotels and in the most exclusive clubs in Germany, USA, Spain, Ibiza, Morocco, Jordan and UAE, amongst top DJs like Josh Wink, Thomas Schumacher and Steve Lawler.

Her music ranges from strong Brazilian grooves to the best of Balearic, deep house and techno. Her critics know her for her beautiful, exciting and energetic set, and it is her cool, fresh sounds that have taken Bahrain by storm since the opening of Bizarre Lounge. E Call 17 171-107 or visit www.kempinski.com.

When? October 5, 12, 19 Event? Best guitarist hunt Venue? Twister Club, Ramada Palace Grand finale of Plugged In-The Guitar Master 2012.

E Call 33 299-293.

When? October 8, 12, 19 Event? Grand finale Venue? Windsor Tower The X-Factor contest is down to its final stages. Find out who wins.

E Call 36 185-525.

When? October 11, 26 Event? DJ nights Venue? Coral Bay DJ maDJam and DJ Nathan are in town this month.

E Call 17 312-700.

When? October 11, 31 Event? Beachwear night Venue? Dublin, Ramee Palace Celebrates the drop in the mercury. Beachwear is mandatory.

E Call 39 736-547.

When? October 15, 31 Event? Think Pink karaoke Venue? JJ’s Irish Sing your heart out on their karaoke night; have a blast on Halloween’s.

E Call 17 717-370.

When? October 18, November 1 Event? Theme nights Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Hide your identity at their masquerade party; be scared on the haunted night.

October 2012 137

afterdarkhappenings When? October 19, November 2 Event? DJ nights Venue? Cocoon, The Juffair Grand Hotel DJ Exotic Eve and DJ Missy Jay spin their best tracks.

E Call 17 827-600.

When? October 31 Event? Halloween party Venue? The Warbler, Baisan Int’l Fall to the dark side on Halloween’s.

E Call 17 290-600.

When? October 31 Event? Halloween party Venue? Harvester’s Pub, Crowne Plaza Fish out your oranges and blacks because you might just win yourself.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? October 31, November 2 Event? Halloween party Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Find your inner zombie. Also, MJ makes a special appearance.

E Call 17 826-001.

138 October 2012

Get Your Groove On There’s a lot going on in Bahrain’s nightlife scenario this October; it’s really hard to keep track of it all. That is why you’ve got us. Here’s our round-up of parties you could hit.

International DJs are pouring in week after week beginning with DJ maDJam at Coral Bay on October 11. He throws in a bit of Middle-eastern flair in the progressive house tracks that he blends with a dash of funk, electro and techno sounds.

Dance maniacs could also catch up with DJ t here on October

DJ maDJam

26 as he brings his Ministry of Sound traits to the floor.

Cocoon turns up the heat indoors with DJ Exotic Eve mixing it up on October 19. Keeping the venue packed on November 2 is none other than DJ Missy Jay. Read on to find out more about the fine tricks these ladies have mastered on the console.

You’ve already heard about DJ Monica spinning away at the weekend-exclusive glam lounge, Bizarre. Also opening their doors is Mai Tai at Trader Vic’s on October 10 and 11.

If you’re in the mood for humour, grab your tickets for the

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comedy night on October 4 at Champs in The Juffair Grand Hotel or at Corners in The Dragon Hotel & Resort. They’re bringing in UK-based stand-up comedians, Jeff Innocent and John Newton.

For those looking forward to a calmer night out, Muju, also at The Dragon Hotel & Resort, will host a night of wine tasting paired with a wonderful fivecourse set menu on October 16.

In the hotels Don your beachwear as Gulf Night Out is on full swing at Gulf Hotel on October 16, 23 and 30. It’s one of the finest DJ Nathan pool parties on the island; you’ll even have a chance at winning exciting prizes.

Two major contests are coming to a close this month. Now that all the initial stages are done with, Plugged In-The Guitar Master 2012 has refined talents to showcase on October 5, 12 and 19 at Twister Club at Ramada Palace. Find out who wins the title of Bahrain’s best guitarist. X-Factor will find their winner on October 19 at Windsor Tower.

Theme nights Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa invites salsa lovers to their Tapas bar as they host Latino night here on October 4. If that seems too far a drive, Block 338 has a similar idea in store for you on the same night.

How long has it been since you went to a masquerade ball? Head over to Bedrock at Ramee California on October 18 for that tinge of mystery. Cherish the final days of the season at Dublin in Ramee Palace in your bikinis, flip-flops and shorts as they throw a summer close out party on October 11. Both venues are all set to call in the spookiest night of the year in style. So is the case with Club Buffalo in Ramee California, with a weekend full of fun planned for Bahrain’s party-goers. On October 31, they host Resurrection 2012. The night of November 2 is going to be legendary with a Michael Jackson tribute act by Ben. JJ’s Irish turns pink on October 15 with a special karaoke night organised in relation to the Think Pink awareness campaign. Halloween is going to be big here. Harvester’s Pub in Crowne Plaza will be flooded in shades of orange and black. While you’re there, you could have a go at their shanghai chicken. The month-long promotion is available at Tracks Sports Bar as well.

Jeff Innocent

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John Newton

October 2012 139

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Fire It Up! October promises to be another party-packed month with two big events taking place in one of Bahrain’s best venues for live entertainment.

On October 11, it’s the Summer Close Out bash at Dublin Club.

Enjoy the sun while it lasts; we can all sense that cool breeze round the corner.

It’s your final chance to don your beach gear and party the night away with resident band Crash Motion and DJ Conny raising the heat on the dance floor. Indulge in a three-course dinner at this American-Irish pub including a beverage for only BD8, available from 7-11pm.

Then, on October 31, it’s the biggest fancy dress party of the year — Halloween. If last year’s party is anything to go by, you’ll feel out of place if you’re not wearing a costume. Prizes are given away for the best and most original costumes of the night. Get your thinking caps on and create a masterpiece — the spookier, the better.

Atomic Milkshake

RAMEE CALIFORNIA HOTEL

It’s a Thriller Some clubs needs no reminder of how to make Halloween night memorable, like this Wild West-themed venue that is celebrating one really spooky weekend.

It might not be long since they threw a big bash as they turned two, but at Club Buffalo it’s never too soon to throw another massive party. So it shouldn’t come as a shocker that Halloween is a three-night ordeal at this happening venue.

October 31 marks the beginning of fun with the Resurrection 2012 party, a reason to kick off the weekend a little earlier than usual. Suffering from a bad hair day? Perfect! On this night you’d better look like you were dragged out from your grave.

If Wednesday doesn’t work well with you, drop in the next day. What’s a Thursday if you haven’t fought your way through to the packed dance floor here?

Whether you’ve made it to either, neither or both parties, the night that you just shouldn’t miss is that of November 2. The King of Pop resurrects to show you a good time. You’d better recollect those lyrics in time to sing along at their Michael Jackson tribute show.

Ben’s charisma and dedication shine through as he perfectly captures the signature styles of the King of Pop. Singing live through the night and performing the smooth MJ dance routines, his show is packed with authentic flair.

It is hard to ignore tempting packages like an unlimited stream of drinks at BD15 and a gala dinner buffet at BD10 with a complimentary drink.

Weaving it together are the vibrant performances by resident band, Atomic Milkshake. Rocking every genre from R&B to hip hop, this American septet is all about the show.

Bringing life to each song, they focus on more than just singing. They reel in the video aspect of each track, making it as interactive an experience as possible. E Call 39 688-207.

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Weekly specials Every Saturday night it’s the weekly jam session, with all musicians and singers invited to join Crash Motion on stage.

Bring along your guitar, bass or a good set of lungs and show the crowds what you’re made of.

Come down on a Sunday and enjoy five hours of non-stop DJ Conny classics, with all his latest tunes getting their debut on the dance floor, perfect for those who just can’t stop dancing.

Ladies’ night takes place three times a week (Sunday, Wednesday and Friday) with unlimited beverages from the Citrus Chic menu.

Order any of the perfectly cooked, succulent steaks and receive a free glass of house beverage with every order from 5pm-1am.

E Call 39 736-547 or visit Facebook.com/Dublin Club Bahrain.

Crash Motion

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Missy Jay

It Takes Two COCOON LOUNGE

The temperature might be going down outdoors, but we can’t say the same for those having a blast indoors with two smokinghot international DJs by the consoles.

Every partygoer in the country knows that there is always something big to look forward to at Cocoon Lounge month after month. Having never disappointed since its launch, this chic club has chosen to introduce Passion for House on October 19 with top model and international DJ Exotic Eve. No new name to house music fanatics, her passion for music has taken her all around the world, from open-air events to top clubs worldwide. Having played at huge festivals such as Ocean Spirit, Red Bull Festival, Summer Jam, Heineken Music Festival and Global Festival, she definitely knows what the crowd is looking for.

Earlier this year, DJ Exotic Eve was voted the sixth best female DJ in Europe out of 120 candidates. With her own radio gig called Exotic Show, she has worked alongside world famous DJs such as Erick Morillo, Yves Larock, David Vendetta and Tocadisco.

“It all started in 2003 when I simply fell in love with electronic music while visiting the hottest clubs of Budapest and Europe. When going clubbing to the Sensation White Festival, I could not take my eyes off the DJ box. The whole thing just amazed me. Everyone loves music; it is one of the greatest pleasures in life,” she says.

Ibiza bash Also no stranger to the party scene and ready to get the dance floor rumbling is Missy Jay. She takes over Cocoon Lounge on

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DJ Exotic Eve

November 2 at the Glitter Ibiza bash. Those are two words that define the best of the nightlife scenario. Among the ten best DJs worldwide, Missy Jay is considered a star in the underworld of music, having performed around the globe.

She has proved her skills in some of the biggest and best international clubs including Dubfire at Amnesia and Cocoon in Ibiza. The DJ even has her own record label, MJM-Records Ibiza where she produces and releases some of the hottest dance floor hits that keep everyone on party mode.

“I'm the smiley happy DJ, globetrotting and hanging around the sunny isle of Ibiza and rest of the world,” she says.

Having reached the number five spot on the Beat Port Tech House Charts, Missy Jay will undoubtedly take you to a new level of partying. Quit wondering where all the party people are — they’re at Cocoon Lounge.

E Call 36 923-233 , 36 500-114 or 34 109-908 or visit Facebook.com/CocoonBahrain.

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What’s New

A Spritz of Seduction

Edited by Alison Coldridge

Davidoff has updated its quintessential ‘Cool Water’ women’s fragrance to give it a seductive edge.

Top notes of acidulous red fruits, vanilla, orchid and frangipani flower are blended with musky tones for a lasting powerful scent.

Available at leading retailers.

High Definition Touchmate always offers innovative multi-functional products for the tech savvy person. This eight inch touch screen My Pad Internet HDMI Tablet is a must have. Running on Google's latest Android 4.0.4 operating system, you can enjoy Facebook, Youtube and Twitter as well as approximately 100,000 Google apps.

Available at Gajria Electronics.

Time for Style Smalto’s ‘Diamond Discovery’ watch takes the notion of a timepiece to a whole new level. Instead of merely being a watch, this gold, pearl and diamond-encrusted piece is a symbol of fashion, an accessory that complements your look.

Available at A La Mode.

Family Time Finally there is a gently scented bath and body range suitable for the whole family. Bottled in vintage-style designs the ‘Bonne Mére’ range is enriched with milk and honey leaving skin of all ages soft, supple and non-irritated.

Available at L’Occitane.

Bold Lady Just because we have entered autumn, it doesn’t mean that our entire look needs to be dull and dark. Spruce up your new-season look with a bright accessory, such as Kenzo’s postbox-red patent mini satchel.

Available at leading retailers.

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Unrivalled Elegance CHOPARD

There is no better investment than a unique piece of fine jewellery that will stand the test of time, that are handcrafted, lovingly designed and infinitely wearable.

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Known for its beautiful and opulent masterpieces, Chopard’s newest collection does not disappoint. The Red Carpet Collection, designed by co-president and artistic director Carolina Scheufele, is filled with unique pieces that any woman would love to wear.

This collection had an exclusive preview at the 65th edition of the Cannes International Film Festival, held in May this year. In honour of the event, the collection contains 65 exquisite jewellery pieces, and revolves around a colour theme.

“In my work as a designer, it is indeed the shimmering tones of precious stones that nurture my imagination,” explains Caroline. For this collection, she has chosen stones such as rubies, emeralds, sapphires, amethysts and tourmalines — without forgetting diamonds.

“A diamond is my favourite stone and an indispensable ally for women on the red carpet,” she says. “Some of the mostloved items feature a floral theme, exemplifying the theme of femininity and beauty.” E Call 16 520-088.

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ASIA JEWELLERS

All a Flutter

Ladies, trade in your existing timepiece for a more lighthearted and feminine style that doesn’t compensate on opulence.

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Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin has launched an exquisite woman’s timepiece, the Caprice Butterfly. Brilliant in blues, with a pop of berry and delectably adorned in 3.8-carat of diamonds — 353 to be exact — the 18-carat white-gold and limited edition watch is one of a kind.

Crafted with detailed technique, superior care and precision, it is a timepiece that oozes style and luxury. Cavities in a thick metal surface are created, filled with moist powdered enamel

and fired. The surface is then sanded delicately by hand, removing the excess enamel and allowing the true colour to shine strong.

The vibrant shades are emphasised by the watch’s strong metal borders for a bold and beautiful completed look.

The brand has created this new style as a jovial piece that is ideal for the playfully glamorous woman, and it is part of a limited-collection of 28 pieces. E Call 17 535-344.

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ASIA JEWELLERS

A Gentleman’s Timepiece As well as telling the time, a watch should tell the world something about its wearer. A suave men’s watch evokes affluence, age-old style and masculinity.

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Graham’s passion for refined details usually leads to admirable creations. But the genius of watchmaking science lies in its ability to create simple timepieces from the most complicated mechanism. Graham has developed a graceful unique chronograph, which brings its fundamental watchmaking developments and British flair for style together.

The new Chronofighter 1695 is a timeless piece featuring an automatic 42mm chronograph powered by a sophisticated Swiss movement. The minutes counter is placed at 6 o’clock and the date at 3 o’clock, a distinctive Graham disposition. In keeping with a gentleman’s taste for style, the watch is

crowned with a pink-gold case that is hand-engraved with the Greenwich Royal Observatory. This acts as a tribute to the early life of George Graham, the official watchmaker of this important British institution.

The case back features a sapphire aperture on the balance wheel and the escapement, which pays homage to ‘Honest George’, the father of the chronograph and creator of simplified escapements. The Chronofighter 1695 is elegant and distinctive and an absolute must for any gentleman with style.

E Call 17 535-344.

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ASIA JEWELLERS

Perfecting Movement There is much to be said for a self-winding watch mechanism. Coupled with an elegant design and unwavering functionality, a timepiece of this style exudes vintage class.

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The new Tourbillon Automatic from Perrelet is the epitome of mechanical precision. Showcased in an all-black frame, it holds court on this cleverly structured and completely black watch. The result is a contemporary and aesthetically pleasing timepiece that highlights the true art of traditional watchmaking.

Silver-toned and enhanced with several colour accents, the dial stands out as it majestically ticks off the seconds.

Providing an elegant counterpoint at 6 o’clock, the hours and minutes are displayed on a black surface that merges seamlessly into the finely fashioned dial structure.

In the centre, the raised Côtes de Genève motif creates a shutter-like pattern offering a fascinating contrast with the surrounding background composed of overlapping geometric elements. These are reminiscent of the characteristic blade tips

of the Turbine collection, a spectacular expression of the double rotor that has become a Perrelet signature.

Spread over the entire watch, the black shade reinforces its resolutely high-tech character, further accentuating the bold nature of the most generously-sized of all the Perrelet cases, made in this instance in DLC-coated steel.

With a 50mm diameter, it features a console on which the distinctive grooves are widely spaced. The bezel is straddled by various elements adding a sense of volume, while the lugs contribute to the sense of power which is enhanced by central reinforcements consolidating the secure hold of the rubber strap.

As one would expect from Perrelet, the mechanical movement is of the self-winding type. The Perrelet Caliber P-311, endowed with a 65-hour power reserve, is designed to be admired through a transparent case back. E Call 17 535-344.

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Dr Syed

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Healthy Heart; Happy Heart Your heart is a vital organ that works incredibly hard to keep you alive. Give it the same level of care it gives you and look after it by eating well and exercising.

148 October 2012

Heart attacks are an acute and common occurrence that occur every 20 seconds. Someone dies from a heart attack every minute, and 50 per cent of heart attack victims die within an hour if they do not receive immediate medical treatment.

Statistics show that heart attacks kill one in four women, and people of Asian and African ancestry are at higher risk than other racial groups.

“A heart works 24 hours a day, pumping oxygen and blood rich in nutrients throughout the body and receives its own supply through the coronary arteries,” explains Dr Syed, cardiologist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital.

“If suddenly any of the coronary arteries get blocked, the supplying area of the coronaries does not get blood and begins to die. This is called a heart attack; the more time it takes to open the blocked artery and restore the damage, the more damage occurs to the heart.”

The symptoms vary from person to person. “It can be an acute crushing chest pain or nothing but an episode of light-headedness with sweating and nausea. However, other common symptoms are chest pain, arm pain, jaw pain, sudden breathing difficulty, vomiting, profuse sweating, palpitation,” the doctor adds.

At home, it is never possible to ascertain your chest pain as a heart attack. Therefore, a few basic tests are essential before diagnosis.

“It is always advisable not to wait more than five minutes before seeking medical help for chest pains,” Dr Syed advises.

“Tests may include an ECG as the baseline test. Beside that some blood tests, echocardiography, chest x-ray and in some cases coronary angiography may have to be done.”

However, you can help your body prevent a heart attack.

“Identify your risk factor and make lifestyle changes. These include smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertensions (high blood pressure) and elevated blood lipids (high cholesterol, tryglyceride, LDL),” says Dr Syed.

The doctor advises everyone to follow a healthy diet wherever possible in addition to exercising on a regular schedule.

“It is never too late to quit smoking; quit it now if you are a smoker, and reduce your alcohol intake to the minimum. If you are diabetic, or suffer from high blood pressure, then be particular about your medication and get regular follow-ups,” he stresses.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOHD FAKHROO AND BROS

The Stylish Man

Give yourself a stylish shave whenever you need it from the comfort of your own home. Achieve the style you desire in just three simple steps.

Philips Electronics has launched its latest shaver to date — the Styleshaver, an innovative 3-in-1 facial hair tool for men with style. The product gives men the freedom to achieve stylish looks with fewer tools.

According to recent research, over half of men now style as well as shave their facial hair. While it’s great news that men are expressing their style so enthusiastically, many men are still reliant on a primitive and inefficient combination of low-end electric trimmers and blade razors to achieve their desired look. Styleshaver allows men to achieve all these looks with one product, with a level of accuracy and precision that other combinations of grooming tools can’t achieve.

The double-headed design allows styling with one end of the product and shaving with the other. All it takes to switch between the two is to simply flip the product over. Its head features a best-in-class trimmer with 12 length settings delivering perfect styling of anything from stubble to a moustache, goatee or beard. It can also create straight lines around any style, while the mid trimmer between the foils makes it possible to achieve a complete clean shave, even on a three day beard.

Philips’ Styleshaver’s trimmer head also includes a precision trimmer on a narrow neck for optimal visibility, allowing men to achieve extra-fine detailing in hard-to-reach areas such as under the nose.

After using the trimmer, the device is simply flipped over to the straight edge dual foil shaver to deliver a convenient and close shave along facial contours and the neck. E Call 17 253-529.

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HYPOXI

Targeted Weight Loss

The latest celebrities’ trend in weight loss is now in Bahrain.

Superstars like Madonna have approved and chosen this way to maintain their sculptured body shapes.

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

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

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

Personalised programmes The centre incorporates exercise with advanced vacuum technology that stimulates blood circulation in areas of the body that have very poor blood supply, thereby accelerating fat metabolism and improving the texture of the skin in problem zones such as the stomach, waist, hips, buttocks and thighs.

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

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With 12 sessions, conducted three times a week, a therapy course will allow you to feel between five and seven centimeters’ loss in the targeted zones. The sessions will leave you feeling energised and it is perfect for those people needing to kick-start their weight loss journey or for those who exercise regularly but just cannot shift fat from their problem areas.

Each session consists of a 30-minute gentle workout, monitored by a well prepared specialised team. This will be supervised by the centre’s qualified physical trainer and sports scientist Mariela Chiabai and the clinical nutritionist Dr Aysha Salem Al Muftah, who promise to make your experience safe, successful and special. E Call 17 626-726.

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Fresh Express - DJ750

Masterchef Gourmet - QA400G

INTERCOL

Kitchen Necessities A disorganised kitchen can be stressful. Stock your shelves with the best appliances and the latest gadgets to make your home cooking that little bit easier.

Masterchrf 5000 - FP520

If you are looking for the ultimate collection of appliances then look no further than Moulinex’s Red Ruby Collection. This range is distinguished by modern technology, the highest level of functionality and red stainless steel casing.

The collection is designed as a complete solution to any foodprocessing need, whether it is at home or in the hectic environment of a five-star hotel kitchen.

All in one Moulinex’s Kitchen Machine QA401 is a powerful and versatile kitchen processor. It comes with metal pastry tools, 900 watts of processing power, a 1.5-litre capacity for blending and fourlitre capacity for mixing and meat mincing. The innovative ‘planetary’ movement of ingredients during processing makes for an extra-delicious meal.

Indeed, the Moulinex QA401 fulfils the dream of anyone who works in a kitchen with an extremely versatile and easy-to-use machine. Call it whatever you want — a juicer, blender, grinder, slicer, meat mincer or a shredder.

La Moulinette - DP705 / DP706

Visit Intercol’s home appliances showroom on Exhibition Road to see the latest Moulinex products.

E Call 17 291-537 or 17 727-600 or email had.fmcg@intercol.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Citrus Press - PC600G

Multi Moulinette - AT712G

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Stephen Wagstaff AXA INSURANCE

Prepare for the Unexpected As an employer, one of your worst nightmares would be losing important personnel to sickness.

Now breathe easy with AXA’s Health Secure plans!

152 October 2012

The success of any business depends to a large extent upon the health of its employees. Sickness absence is a crucial concern for all employers, especially in the current economic climate. So when it comes to health matters, is your company fully prepared for the unexpected?

Launched in April this year, AXA’s Health Secure series of medical insurance plans is specifically designed to meet the needs of people living and working in the GCC. The insurer has two sets of plans specifically designed for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): the Health Secure Standard is for businesses having up to ten staff members, while the Health Secure Enhanced plan caters for businesses in excess of 11 employees.

“From the moment your organisation takes out an AXA Health Secure plan you will have prompt access to the worldwide AXA network of high-quality medical providers. In case the unexpected strikes, then you will know that you’re covered,” observes AXA country manager, Stephen Wagstaff.

AXA has a range of seven Health Secure plan options, depending on where you work, travel or wish to receive treatment, tailored around three geographical areas to suit a variety of business requirements. These options are available for both the Standard and Enhanced plans.

Three top-of-the-range international cover plans allow you to have medical treatment anywhere in the world, while three

mid-range plans offer cover for regional treatment in the MENA region as well as the Indian sub-continent and South East Asia.

The seventh plan offers local cover designed for those who desire high value treatment locally at a lower premium.

Health Secure provide basic cover for your employees such as pre-existing and chronic conditions, in-patient private hospital treatment, out-patient consultation, treatment and diagnostics, cancer cover and pregnancy. The plans also include some valuable additional benefits such as worldwide emergency medical assistance, dental cover, personal accident cover and a telephone support “wellbeing” service.

In addition to the coverage offered, all AXA’s SME corporate customers benefit fully from the support of the company’s medical platform which services over 300,000 members in the GCC. AXA is the largest international non-life player in the GCC, with a workforce of over 700 employees in 12 offices regionwide catering to more than 500,000 customers and a gross written premium of over US$510 million last year. AXA Gulf was recently awarded Insurer of the Year 2011 at the MENA Insurance Awards, Best Medical Insurer of the Year 2011 at the Insurex Conference and Best Motor Insurance provider at the latest Car Middle East Awards.

E Call 8000 1060.

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INTERCOL

Life at Your Fingertips In an era of mobile computing, the ultimate deciders between competing brands are accessibility, connectivity, mobility and feature-rich applications.

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Nothing beats a device that breaks all limits and sets a new benchmark. That is exactly what the Lenovo IdeaTab A2107 and A2109 have achieved.

Lenovo IdeaTab A2107 The Lenovo A2107 is your solution to keep all your favourite songs, e-books and other multimedia content at your fingertips, even when you’re off the beaten track. Exceptionally portable and weighing only 0.9lbs, the tab has rich HD video functionality, great for viewing even when outside. Front and rear webcams are available for taking photos.

Armed with the latest Android OS version 4.0, the tab hosts a multitude of practical and exciting applications via Lenovo App Shop and Google Play.

The A2107 is also equipped with Bluetooth, micro-USB porta, a microSD card reader, dual-stereo speakers and FM radio.

Effortless GPS navigation, up to eight hours of battery life and an internal roll cage, which protects it when accidents happen, enhance the value of the device.

Lenovo IdeaTab A2109 This is everything gamers needs from a full-size tablet — you can play games at top speed and watch HD video with its crystal-clear screen. The A2109 gives you the ability to effortlessly transfer photos and videos to other devices thanks to its full range of digital output options, satisfying your every multimedia need.

Noteworthy features include the latest Android 4.0 software, four-point capacitive touch for multi-player gaming and a high DPI HD widescreen. Weighing a mere 1.3lbs, the A2109 also comes with front and rear webcams for more vivid video chats.

WiFi, Bluetooth, dual speakers and up to eight hours’ battery life are all among the features.

Gamers also have access to thousands of apps via Google Play and from the Lenovo App Shop. Together with a built-in GPS for easy navigation, the A2109 comes with a metal exterior to give added protection from mishaps.

E Call 17 291-537.

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marketplace FRASER SUITES

Chic and Comfy Standing alongside one of the city’s most celebrated shopping malls, it would be hard to find a more convenient location for a gold-star hotel-style residence.

JUNAID FOR PERFUMES

Unyielding Scents Even in the face of ever-changing consumer trends, a leading manufacturer retains its stance as one of the region’s finest perfumers.

The beautiful and modern property, Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain offers a perfect base for business travellers or leisure guests arriving in the Kingdom, for a quick visit or a longer-term stay. With a touch of a Far Eastern Zen-like mood, all apartments in the 19-storey tower are decorated with plentiful light and natural materials, delivering a spacious yet cosy ambience for guests.

From the warm brown parquet flooring to contemporary artwork on the walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas, Fraser Suites is a home away from home.

The key to the brand’s success is based on the need for an alternative to the traditional hotel. Few hotels or residential properties can offer an international mall at your front doorstep; shopping is simple, business a breeze and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options within Seef Mall.

Convenience is a also priority; guests can choose from a range of lifestyle facilities including four meeting venues, The Gallery Lounge for a leisurely breakfast, separate male and female spa facilities. These feature sauna and steam rooms, spa pools, a temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi, and a state-of-the-art gymnasium.

Children are catered for as well with a variety of entertainment options at the Fraser Kids’ Club and with babysitting services upon request. Together with thoughtful extras such as Osim massage chairs at The Retreat, the ladies and gents hairdressing salon, with Fadi Harb, and free highspeed Internet access throughout the property, this luxurious venue will ensure a stress-free stay in Bahrain.

E Call 17 569-333.

With the recent forecast of a notable development in the region’s perfumery industry, Junaid for Perfumes has opened up nine new outlets. The outlets have been launched in Bahrain, United Arab Emirates and across Saudi Arabia over the past two months.

“The forecast disclosed at the first summit organised by the Arab Association for Perfumes in the Middle East offers us an advantage in identifying new markets to tap and help us in our expansion plans,” says Hamad Fuad director of marketing and sales at Junaid for Perfumes.

The new store in Bahrain is located on the ground floor of newly-opened Al Enma Mall and offers an array of the brand’s ever-popular fragrances. The collection also includes the recently launched Deher Eternal, Bareeya and a host of new perfumes, oils and accessories for the season.

In line with the company’s vision and philosophy, the new outlets form an element of continuity with Junaid’s stores which offer an indulgent and distinct shopping experience for the customers.

“The opening of the new outlets is part of our strategic growth plans to remain at the forefront of the perfume retail industry by consistently expanding our reach across the region and making our products more accessible to customers,” continues Hamad.

Established in 1910, Junaid for Perfumes has been in operation for over 100 years and has shaped the regional market with its creation of fragrances and perfumes.

E Call 17 179-191.

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Simple Solutions Leading the way in electrical home appliance systems, Severin will change the way your household works with easy-to-use products and delicious results!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

As a reputable German brand, Severin has manufactured electrical household appliances for over 60 years with one simple objective: to make daily tasks as seamless as possible for all homeowners.

Each of the brand’s designs is sleek and streamlined giving a modern touch to any kitchen and is remarkably easy to use, wash and store.

An electric barbeque collection from Severin encourages all enthusiastic chefs to get outdoors and cooking for friends and family. The range is perfect for bringing people together to enjoy fantastic grilled meals in the garden, when camping or even by the beach. Healthy food is easy to create on a barbeque — and who doesn’t love a burger or two on a sunny day.

Better still, each of the barbeques have built-in innovative features for safer use. The appliances emit a very low generation of odours and smoke, due to the use of water-filled grill-tray technology, and all of the different parts are dishwasher safe, freeing you from tedious washing-up!

The barbeque collection includes numerous styles of standalone grills, raclette grills and party pans which are perfect for cooking for large parties, and a table-top device that can be placed on top of any outdoor surface. Aside from being chic and smart in design, Severin’s barbeques are as compact as possible to ensure minimum otdoor space is taken up, and the same is achieved when stored away.

E Call 17 408-150.

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listingsthismonth Social Clubs

Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing

Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups

Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society

17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

17 230-123

Crafts

Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

17 611-900 17 254-688 17 595-791 17 599-030 17 590-409

Ballet Centre Ballare School Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 300-021 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

Dance

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 Konkan Singers Club 17 243-511

Islamic Culture

Bapco Club Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

17 753-666 17 690-926 17 262-143 17 291-527 17 258-520 17 278-245 17 593-593 17 253-157 17 231-354 3 9455-207

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Awali Caledonian Society Bahrain Irish Society Bahrain Welsh Society Royal Society of St. George

3 6366-458 3 9800-511 3 9467-310 3 9726-329

Other Indian clubs

Other Societies

Business Associations

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

17 862-620 3 6992-288

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball Netball Club

Bowling

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143 3 9911-848

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

17 692-378 17 695-809

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 756-770 17 750-777

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Sailing Club Yacht Club

17 836-078 17 700-667

Music

Photography

Awali Photo Society 17 764-468 Bahrain Photography Club 17 590-551

Pottery

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

Public Speaking

17 786-969 17 599-026

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association

17 422-005 Indian Ladies Association 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

156 October 2012 BTM

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 713-080 17 242-641

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine

17 713-999 17 230-123

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

Pilates

Racket games

Snooker

Jimmy’s Snooker/Billiards 17 71 6-147

National Associations

Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Basketball Association 17 741-010 Bowling Association 17 822-077 Chess Federation 17 252-133 Cycling Association 17 650-079 Language Courses Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Alliance Française 17 683-295 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Berlitz 17 827-847 Football Association 17 729-563 The British Council 17 261-555 Handball Association 17 720-321 Other Associations Hockey Association 17 253-209 Baloch Club 17 292-231 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Garden Club 17 727-625 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Pakistan Association 3 9415-200 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Skal International Bahrain 17 22-4050 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 Snooker Association 17 825-301 Sports Recreation Swimming Association 17 680-867 Aerobics Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Volleyball Association 17 271-139 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women

17 691-496 Teens Kids Ez Fit SportPlex 17 692-378 Athletics World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576 Road Runners 3 6992-288

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Museums

Mind Games

American Chamber Comm. 17 580-516 Australian Association 3 9206-432 Bar Society 17 725-665 Bankers’ Society of Bahrain 17 728-003 British Business Forum 3 9651-755 Businessmen’s Association 17 229-009 French Business Club 17 748-999

Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

Literature

Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing 3 9458-293 Karate Centre 3 9247-769 17 813-856 Taichi & Wushu Center Japan Karate Association 17 591-237 Marina Club 3 9690-008 Reza Martial Arts Centre 17 694-646 Shotokan Karate 3 9626-211 World Beat Fitness Center 17 612-576 Yong Quan Tha Chi 3 9667-624 Zen-Do Bahrain 17 611-909

Athletics/Running Ball Games

Cricket

Equestrian

Football & Rugby Golf

Karting

Marine Sports Martial Arts

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Bahrain Karate Center 17 612-576 Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center 3 6222-892 Delmon Taekwondo School 3 9689-659 Futureshape Studio 17 592-019

Dance

Ballet Centre 3 9676-349 Victoria Dance Centre 3 9876-215 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Cricket

Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

17 692-378 17 276-134

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football The Country Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 593-593

Football & Rugby Horse Riding

Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

Bodyline Spa Coral Beach Club La Fontaine Spa Massage Centre

17 793-932 17 312-777 17 230-123 17 264-064

Ann Beauty Center and Spa Bellacura Beauty Lounge Dessange Spa Futoon Beauty & Fitness Pineapple Spa Profile Fitness Centre Wellness Resort Zoya Beauty Centre

17 623-704 17 364-955 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Meditation Centres

Bahrain Wellness Centre Bayoga Centre Meditation Centre Physiotherapy Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

17 795-961 39 460-996 17 712-545 17 722-012 17 612-576

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa 17 845-000 Crowne Plaza Health Club 17 531-122 17 535-000 Golden Tulip Health Club 17 713-000 Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel 17 531-666 17 227-777 Regency Fitness Centre 36 270-302 RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel 17 524-570 Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton 17 580-000 The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel 17 460-000

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 17 566-566 My Gym Bahrain

QR Codes: On-The-Go Reading You can now read Bahrain This Month while you are out and about, from the comfort of your own phone — just simply download a free app which allows you direct access to the online magazine. Both iPhone, iPad2 and BlackBerry users can enjoy this simple convenience by following these simple steps;

iPhone/iPad2 users Step 1: Search for i-nigma on the Apple app store Step 2: Download i-nigma on your iPhone or Pad, free of charge Step 3: After downloading is complete, click on the i-nigma icon Step 4: Finally, simply scan the QR code to be directed to a page on the designated page on the web

Awali Riding Club 17 756-525 Dilmun Club 17 692-986 Riding School 17 690-448 Shakhoora Riding School 17 591-103 The Country Club 17 593-593

Marine & Sailing Sailing Club Yacht Club

Martial Arts

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy 3 9658-741 Al Ahli Karate School 3 9659-510 Al Hala Sports Club 3 9966-139 Balouch Club 17 292-231 British Club 17 728-245 Delmon Tae Kwon Do School 3 9689-659 Taichi & Wushu Centre 3 6437-931

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms

Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex Ghassans Gym

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379 17 695-911

BlackBerry users Step 1: Search for ‘QR Code Scanner Pro’ in the Blackberry app world, either online or directly from your phone Step 2: Download the app, free of charge Step 3: Click on the application and scan the code Step 4: On scanning, you will be directed to site referenced in the QR code There are two QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 11).

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When is Jewellery Arabia held? ___________________________

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Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:

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Winner : Sattendra Kumar Second Place : Joan Fernandes Third Place : Sherry Rodrigues

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Last month’s solutions

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1. World Endurance Championship 2. Loire Valley, France 3. Cucina Italiana 4. Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam

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5. Fadl Adib 6. Infiniti JX 7. Club Buffalo, Ramee California Hotel 8. Marina services

Which car did we test drive this month? ___________________________

9. TripIt 10. Cocoon Lounge

Ad Seek 1. Royal Bahrain Hospital/Royal Aesthetic Center 2. Movenpick Hotel

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What is Adnan Alqassab organising? ___________________________

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October 2012 157

tarotscopethismonth

Libra

Sep 21 – Oct 21 There are going to be a few inevitable changes in your life over the coming months but you should resist any fears that may rise. Ultimately, the outcome will be favourable and by the end of 2012 your situation — especially financially — will be a great deal more stable.

Sometime around the middle of the month there is a suggestion of a change of property, so you may find yourself moving in due course. If you do consider a new home just make sure you check things out thoroughly before putting in any offer because there could be one or two hidden drawbacks you hadn’t foreseen.

Card of the Month — Temperance For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 You know that there are things in life that you desire and you also know that as a person you are quite capable of getting them. What you don’t seem to accept is that in all ventures there is bound to be risk and, for your more patient sign, risk is not always something you like to toy with. If you gamble, be it on love, career or even travel, then I see you moving in a positive fashion towards your goals.

On the health front, what you should be watching is your diet; not eating well will start to demonstrate itself physically in you by the end of the year. More fruit and less fat is the remedy here!

Card of the Month — The Three of Swords

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 A current relationship has reached its course and the new love you were seeking to pursue has been dragging his or her heels to such an extent that you are now feeling most disheartened. However, good things are predicted for you in the final months of 2012, especially as a new career you have been waiting on finally kicks off. Through this venture you will also discover the answer to all your emotional problems; all you need to have here is a little faith.

On matters of friendship, you should consider the feelings of a close companion who you have possibly hurt or even ignored over the last few weeks.

Card of the Month — The Hermit

158 October 2012

Capricorn ­December 22 — January 18 Many of you have allowed 2012 to drift by without so much as a finger being lifted to realise your own dreams. Instead of complaining about your lack of progress and the stifling of your dreams by others you should consider if it has been your fault. There will be opportunities for you to make amends before the year is out although effort and desire on your part are going to be required if you are to make any significant inroads. On the top of your list is career, with October being a crunch time for you to make a decision about where you are going and what you want to do.

Card of the Month — The High Priestess

aquarius January 20 – February 18 October will open for you in an optimistic fashion and the outcome will be one of overconfidence that could lead to serious problems before the month is out. A job offer you may have recently accepted will see you accepting a post that, although well paid, could be not only much harder than you had anticipated. It may also be with a company who are much more unstable then you first realised. So, don’t go out on any spending spree before you are settled. Otherwise, you could be left with a whole lot of debt and no income to pay them with!

Card of the Month — The Ace of Cups

pisces ­February 21 – March 20 Life can always be sure to teach us one thing and that is simply that hope will exist in all situations at all times, no matter how bad things may seem. For many Pisceans, much of 2012 may have been a year to write-off; the good news is that October will be much better with a new love ready to appear on the horizon. And as we all know, when the heart is satisfied then everything seems okay.

This is a lesson you will quickly learn after a dinner party around the 19th sees you introduced to someone to whom you find yourself almost instantly attracted.

Card of the Month — The Knight of Cups Aries March 21 – April 20 It’s been a time of constant upheaval for you and there is no question that you will be feeling drained and in need of some rest and recuperation this October. If you have the chance to get away then take it; you are running on empty and need some time to relax. In fact, I’d go as far as to say make the time or you could end up regretting it later.

On the home front disappointments may turn around in your favour over the next few weeks; you could be presented with an ideal opportunity for a future investment that you never considered before. If nothing else, at least financially, you are going to be a lot more secure going forward.

Card of the Month — The Nine of Coins TAURUS April 21 – May 20 It’s been a series of ups and downs for you lately and nothing has been more draining than your recent legal negotiations, which have really taken their toll. You need to re-focus and get your mind on the honest motivations in your life again. Don’t forget about what drives you and what gives reason to your life.

Financially, you could get an offer to develop your career that will in turn provide you with the personal satisfaction you have been seeking, as well as putting some monetary reward in your pocket. You may not feel like you’ve achieved much but, in truth, you are a lot closer to where you want to be than you might realise.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

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advertisersindex Gemin ­May 21 – June 20 It’s been a pretty disappointing time for you as far as relationships go but there is finally light at the end of the tunnel. Just don’t rush matters this time around. Your sign is a giving and enthusiastic one but sometimes you get carried away; this can be disconcerting for someone who doesn’t know you that well.

Resist the urge to run before you can walk and you may have a rewarding experience here that will grow as we move towards Christmas and 2013. Just remember that you don’t need to get everything done quickly. There are no deadlines here. Enjoy it for what it is.

Card of the Month — The Ace of Wands

Financial Institutions AXA Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Germany in Bahrain Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 65 German Orthopaedic Hospital . . . . . . . . 69 German Skin Care Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 p2mBerlin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Porsche Centre Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Vital Aesthetic Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Yateem Optician (Maybach) . . . . . . . . . . 77 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro . . . . . . . . . . . . .60,63

Home & Furnishings

Cancer June 21 – July 20 The world will seem a much better place this month, Cancer and you will discover things about your inner self that were previously smothered by your concerns. On the relationship front, you will find love and romance hitting an all-time high as you get closer and closer to what can only be described as your true soul mate. Your partner means business here so only say “I love you” if you mean it.

On the work front, you will pursue a completely different career path and much success will be rewarded for the hard work you put in now.

Card of the Month — The Magician

leo July 23 – August 21 The time for being afraid of taking a chance has to be put behind you if you are ever to make any headway in your life and attain the success you crave, both at work and in a relationship. Where career is concerned, you need to learn to speak your mind and the ideal opportunity will present itself to you in the second week of this month. So do not run from the chance to make your mark.

Missing out will see you having to wait a long time before you do so again.

Also, try to suppress your urge to shout so much in the workplace and exercise that charitable side of your personality. Believe me, it will be appreciated and those around you will respond with more enthusiasm.

Card of the Month — The Moon

Virgo August 22 – September 22 You are currently involved in one of the most exciting periods of your life and you should ensure that you soak up everything because much of it will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Those of you travelling may meet someone new who grabs your interest on a romantic level; you need to be cautious and take into account your circumstances before going forward with anything. New surroundings can sometimes cloud people’s judgement. So assess whatever happens within the context of your situation.

Card of the Month — The World

Techno Blue (Samsung). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 33

Motoring Almoayyed Motors (Ford) . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Lexus) . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Motor City (Citroen) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 National Car Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Zayani Motors (Peugeot). . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Others

AA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 00

Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Bahrain Institute for Hospital & Research .

108 Bahrain Optician (Sunglass Hut) . . . . . . . 45 Bahrain Science Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Cocoon Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101,109 Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Dream Body Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 ECC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Gajria Electronics (Touchmate) . . . . . . . 110 HRM Summit 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Hypoxi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Intercol (Lenovo) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Intercol (Moulinex) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Junaid for Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Migrant Workers Protection Society . . 103 Moda Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Mohd Fakhroo & Bros (Philips) . . . . . . . 149 National Photo Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Medical & Dental Services

Restaurants & Cafés

BoConcept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Hotels & Luxury Apartments Fraser Suites Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31,124 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel . . . . . . . . . 19 Marriott Executive Apartments . . . . . . 102 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . .105,139 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Ramee Baisan Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Ramee Palace Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 The Diplomat Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Panerai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Chopard) . . . 11 Cartier Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Chanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC-1 Rado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sharif Group (Smalto) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Korea in Bahrain AJM Kooheji Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Block 338 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Café Italia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Hard Rock Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Leila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Telecommunications VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lil Wayne

Kim Kardashian

Gwyneth Paltrow

FAMOUS Libra THIS MONTH

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and

News Stands All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

October 2012 159

lastword

An Island Life for Me JAMES CLAIRE What’s wrong with being an island! I mean Bahrain is an island, and it’s doing just fine. Why would it want to be part of somewhere else?

160 October 2012

A female acquaintance once informed me ‘You are not an island’ when I refused to open up at a distressed time. I’d heard the saying before in movies, but I did not really contemplate its full meaning until now.

Madagascar, Maldives, Australia, they are all islands and I don’t see anything wrong with them either.

So why do people look concerned at me when they fear I have become an island?

Has my expanding waistline actually become a coastline?

Born on an island, and residing much of my youth on mainland Australia I left home when I was 16. Moving internationally I resided in England; you guessed it, another island.

In the 30 years since I have travelled far and wide and have kept to myself. Unmarried, no kids, I have maintained an existence whereby I have looked out for the number one person in my life and, in turn, that person has taken good care of me.

A solitary existence on multiple islands; is it any wonder why I have become one myself, mentally?

I think island life is pretty good, a touch of romance and mystery.

Constant travel has not only made me an island, but has given me an infliction termed ‘itchy feet syndrome’. It’s not health- or hygiene-related but one caused by too much travel and the desire never to stop. Simply put, my feet are always itching to move on.

And this is where the two roads meet this month. My acquaintances’ frequent comments about my island-like nature and desire to always travel got me looking at maps of islands I have not yet visited.

I’ve been to the Falkland Islands, Bora Bora and an island called Storney and I thought they were strange. Then I noticed two that really struck a chord with my mind; Christmas Island and Easter Island. I knew little about either.

What really set me thinking is whether something named so boldly could ever live up to expectation. Is Easter Island the land of happy rabbits making Easter eggs? Do the inhabitants just celebrate every day by giving each other chocolate? Now there’s a place I should have been born.

What about Christmas Island! Is it the glorious gift-giving capital of the planet? Or is everyone on the island simply fat

with a bright red suit and reindeer?

Whose idea was it, all these years ago anyway, to say that Santa lived at the North Pole? Did they realise how cold it gets there?

If romance and mystery are to be believed and fostered in the minds of children, surely the fantasy has to be partially feasible. Why didn’t we just tell children Santa lives on Christmas Island? I would have believed them and kids could check the maps and see it for themselves.

Naming of islands must be difficult, however. Otherwise why is Iceland regarded as green, and Greenland is covered in ice? Was the captain of the ship who discovered these a little under the weather and wrote the wrong names beside his hand drawn maps? Or are we to believe that global warming has turned Greenland bitterly cold and that Iceland has thawed?

And if we know where Christmas Island and Easter Island are, why is it that no one has discovered Halloween and Thanksgiving Islands yet, and where are they?

Thanksgiving Island would be nirvana, filled with fertile crops, maidens bearing pumpkin pie and cornucopias of land’s own bounty. Halloween Island, I imagine, would be a scary place filled with ghosts, ghouls and nightmarish things.

There is, of course, Magnetic Island; is it attraction or repulsion? Daydream Island would doubtless be a blissful place. Smyley Island sounds happy but then Goodenough Island, in Papua New Guinea, sounds pretty laid-back too!

My therapist says that I cling to travel as it causes me to see life from a different perspective, and stops me thinking about the mediocrity of my own life. I never did like therapists!

I love to travel because, in this day and age, I can. As for my island mentality, well, I’m never really alone. There’s always me, myself and I, and we love each other’s company.

“Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe or call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one,” spoke Jane Howard, the British actress.

So, I’m off to find a few more islands like myself who have itchy feet. I think a group of islands is called a cluster and that sounds not only comforting but strangely delicious.

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