Bahrain This Month - September 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

September 2013 ~ Vol. 17 ~ Issue 9 www.bahrainthismonth.com

New Season New Fashions

Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com

Coral Bay Festival Desert Symphony Dental Clinics & Hospitals

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

FW路13

MASSIMODUTTI.COM

Bahrain City Centre - Seef Mall

Issue 193

Contents September 2013 Cover Story:

69 New Season, New Fashions

The latest fashion trends for Autumn/Winter 2013 are starting to appear on the shelves around town; it’s time for a change of look.

69

31

52

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of September 2013:

31 Desert Symphony: Indian stars of music and the screen entertain 36 Coral Bay Festival: A weekend of fun at the seaside!

38 Following Her Heart: Nadine Al Sheikh opens a new gallery 42 Rock Revival: The Dilmun Club gets ready for a blast 44 Extracurricular Fun: A host of sports activities to consider 46 Game, Set, Match: As the weather improves, we come out to play 31-46 Calendars: Events during September

Personality:

52 A Life of Service

Bishop Camillo Ballin gets ready to consecrate a new Catholic church in the Kingdom, as he fulfils his pastoral duties around the northern Gulf.

Diplomatic Talk:

54

60

54 Consolidating Ties

The Sri Lankan ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency RKMA Rajakaruna, hopes his new embassy will help spur enhanced ties with the Kingdom.

Spotlight:

56 Fresh Horizons

56

62 Bystander At BTM we continued with our visits to ghabgas as the Holy Month drew to a close. We joined our Moroccan friends on the occasion of their National Day and took in an art exhibition at Al Haddad Motors.

Over at The Warbler, we celebrated with this veteran of the entertainment scene as they turned 21, and witnessed the opening of the Golden Peacock Indian restaurant.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

After a period of some rancour, Dr Charles Wall looks to a future with renewed vigour as the new principal of The British School of Bahrain.

Business:

60 High-end Bargains

Access to luxury and top-of-the-range fashion brands is a reality for everyone believes Pete McGowan, co-founder of The Designer Outlet.

62 In Pursuit of Growth

The Gulf Hotel Group starts to spread its wings as it looks to diversify operations away from just a five-star hotel in the Kingdom.

September 2013 9

Celebrate 5 Years of Fun and Fashion!

Celebrate Our 5 Anniversary Festival with Fun and Fantastic Prizes!

We are celebrating all month long! Spend BD33 and get the chance to drive away in 1 of 5 stylish and dynamic Fiat 500’s and much more! With five BD50 GiftCards and an iPhone 5 to win daily, what’s not to celebrate?

It’s our gift to you for making us your favourite destination.

September 5 - October 5 *Terms and Conditions apply

B A H R A I N

D E I R A

M I R D I F

S H A R J A H

A J M A N

F U J A I R A H

M U S C AT

Q U R U M

M A A D I

A L E X A N D R I A

B E I R U T

Issue 193

Contents September 2013 Downtime:

105

81 The Doctor Will See You Now: Dr Who gets a new who!

82 The Savvy Student: Get kitted out for a new academic year 84 Showcase: Lulu Hypermarket gadgets 86 Music: Going underground 88 Computer Games: In the palm of your hand 89 Websites: A swizzle next door 90 Apps: The price is right 91 Movies: Conjuring up the end of the world 92 Books: 100 great books selected by Dr Paul Balles

Motoring:

105 Uniquely Athletic: Rolls-Royce Wraith 106 Test Drive: Renault Koleos 111 Showcase: Dodge RAM

Dining:

129

115

129 Mediterranean Flavours: Masso Restaurant 130 Happenings: Where to dine this month 133 Showcase: The Domain’s F&B offerings

After Dark:

139 Three is a Party: Club Buffalo celebrates an anniversary 140 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 142 Showcase: Harvesters Pub @ Crowne Plaza Hotel

Showcase:

115 Dental Clinics and Hospitals: An ear-to-ear smile 147 What’s New: Fairytale charmer 149 Marketplace: Latest products and services

Regulars:

139

149

Book your Trip at Regulated Tariff www.bahrainthismonth.com

165 WIN WIN 166 Tarotscope 167 AD Index 168 Last Word

147 September 2013 11

The team

Bahrain This Month September 2013

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

Dear Readers,

Events Editor Maryam Toorani Contributors James Claire (dining), Simi Kamboj

Welcome to the September 2013 issue of the Kingdom’s leading magazine. In this edition we talk to Garfield Jones, the deputy CEO at Gulf Hotels Group.

Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar

The overall sentiment that flows from his expansive comments seem, to me, to

Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian

reflect the mood of many people I have spoken to in recent months.

The time has come to move on and to appreciate that the future lies in the

Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr.

present, and not in the past. For those of us in business, we can embrace our

Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S

responsibilities to the community in which we reside by investing in the future.

Over the summer I attended the graduation of my son, Alex, from university in

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa

the United Kingdom; he starts his first ‘real’ job in September. This cycle of life

Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz

is sustained by our investment, individually and collectively, in those around us whether at home or at work. Sitting at my desk, after my summer break, I sense

Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Hilary James

that our lives have started to return to their normal cycle.

Circulation Manager Fawaz Al Balooshi

A key component of this cycle is the education of our children; I read with

Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr.

interest the splendid article by Simi Kamboj on Dr Charles Wall, the new principal at The British School of Bahrain. I have enormous admiration for those

Distributor Al Hilal Corporation

who take up such challenges; in my book they walk on water.

This issue, given the advent of autumn, includes a review of the latest fashion

Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com

trends that will be adorning retail outlets around the Kingdom in the weeks to

Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

come. It never ceases to amaze me how fashion designers seem to be able, almost at the push of a switch, to come up with new and refreshing ideas.

Published monthly by

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

In another of our interviews, Pete McGowan, a co-founder of The Designer Outlet, tells us that high-end fashion is not just for the select few — if you are prepared to wait a little while. We also talk to Bishop Camillo Ballin, whose parish covers two and a half million Catholics in the northern Gulf, about his

© 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. expressed in this magazine by journalists •andViews 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

life spent serving those who live and work in the Middle East.

Also in this issue you will find a review of dental hospitals and clinics and our usual round-up of happenings around town. I invite you to enjoy the great

Cover

way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.

Cover Picture: Massimo Dutti’s men’s collection for AW13 is full of surprises.

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

September 2013 ~ Vol. 17 ~ Issue 9

Only 7 issues to go.

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

April 2014

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

btm200

www.bahrainthismonth.com

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

New Season

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

New Fashions

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Join us on Facebook Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com

www.facebook.com/bahrainthismonth

Coral Bay Festival Desert Symphony Dental Clinics & Hospitals

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 13

bystanderthismonth

Moroccan National Day Celebrations HE Ahmed Rasheed Khattabi, Moroccan Ambassador, hosted a reception to celebrate the National Day of Morocco. The reception attended by HE Ghanim Al-Buainain, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs, HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Minister of Culture, members of the Diplomatic Corps and VIPs was held at the The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa's Al Nakheel Ballroom last month

Dr Dhafer Al Umran, HE Ghanim Al Buainain & HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador

Fawzia & HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi

Fawzia & HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi with HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa

Zaynab, Fawzia & HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi & Abir

HE Sameera Rajab & HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador

HE Ghanim Al Buainain & HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi with diplomats at the cake cutting

Mustafa Al Sayed, HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi & Salman

Jano, Vicky, Dr Lina & Chris

Kabeera, Ghezlan, Bodoor & Maream

14 September 2013

HE Nabeel Al Hamer & Afnan Al Zayani

Nawal, Linda & Soukaina

Bashaer & Mashael

Mala & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Fatima Al Kooheji & Shaikha Haya

Jalil Al Ansari & Jean

Boutaina

Dr Jihan & Dr Dhafer Al Umran

HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi & Khalifa Rumaihi

Nabeel Ajoor & Nasser Alarayedh

Yasmeen, Zainab & Salwa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Indian Independence Day Flag Hoisting Under the patronage of HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador and in association with the Indian Embassy a flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Bahrain Keeralaya Samajam in Zinj to celebrate India's 67th Independence Day

HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Bhagwan Asarpota

Abdulrahman & Raghu

Rameshwari, Meenakshi & Madhuri

Sangeetha & Anil

Thomas & K.A. Thomas

Sneha, Reshma & Helen

Mala, Dilip & Ashok

Suresh & Babu

Jayasankar, Vinyan & Nandakumar

The Indian Flag being hoisted

Janardhan & Soman

Najat, Prathima, Meenakshi, Sarla, Leela & Jayanthi

Santosh, Mangat, Narayan, Haldar & Rajy

Saleem

School kids perform at the event

16 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Al Haddad Motors Art Exhibition A charity art exhibition titled 'The Art Of Giving' was held at Al Haddad Motors to raise funds for children with cancer and highlight the work of local artists. The event was organised by Cre贸 Innovative Solutions and sponsored by Al Haddad Motors. The funds raised at the event will be donated to the Bahrain Deaf Society and the Bahrain Dream Society. HE Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation, attended the event, along with organisers, Noora and Mohammed Al Haddad, HE Sabine Taufmann, German Ambassador, guests and members of the media Deema, HE Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Mohammed & Noora

HE Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Abbas, HE Sabine Taufmann & Deema

Dalal, Major General Dr Mubarak, Isa, Alia & Jowana

Salman, Noor, Samar & Rania

Ali & Francoise

Noha & Mariam

Mohammed, Deema & Wafa

Abdulla, Mohammed & Ahmed

Eman & Noora

Mohammed & Basem

Fatima

Khadeeja, Reem & Elham

Naheed

Marwa & Safa

Al Haddad Staff Ghabga Al Haddad Motors, sole distributors for MercedesBenz vehicles in Bahrain held a ghabga for staff during the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Al Haddad Mercedes-Benz showroom

Rasool Al Haddad, Paul & Sami

Mohammed, Hamza, Hassan & Mohammed

18 September 2013

Ashraf, Adel & Abdulla Al Haddad

Sinto, Azeez, Jojo & Mohan

Binu & Sumesh

Mark & Steve

Amal & Waseem

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

US Ambassador's Majlis HE Thomas Krajeski, US Ambassador hosted a majlis at his residence in Saar to celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan and the strong friendship between the United States and Bahrain. Senior government officials, Members of Parliament, Shura Council members, journalists, prominent political, business, and civic personalities attended the event

Salah, Dr Nasser, HE Thomas Krajeski, HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qadir, Palestinian Ambassador, Rashad & Sulaiman

Dr Akbar, Doris, Abdul Hussain, HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, HE Thomas Krajeski & Admiral Scott

Rex, Dorado & JP

HE Thomas Krajeski, Khalid & Jawad Y. Al Hawaj

Waleed, Robert & Diane

Noor, Janan, Hana & Myrna

Fatima & Mariyam

Russ & Danny

Taher

West

Buthaina & Julie

Wilson

Mustapher & Khadeeja

Citibank Media Iftar Citibank Bahrain hosted a media Iftar during the Holy Month at the InterContinental Regency's Al Thuraya Tent. The event was attended by Nader Moosa, National Sales Head & Personal Loan Business Manager, Citibank, Hussain Al Baluchi, Branches & Wealth Management Head, Citibank, Sonik Kapur, Director of Marketing & Cards Business Head, Citibank, Nadera Abuali, Corporate Communications Manager, Citibank and members of the media

Sehrish, Mr Khan & Mehak

20 September 2013

Nader Moosa, Sonik Kapur, Hussain Al Baluchi & Nadera Abuali with members of the media

Avinash, Mehmood & Ashok

Alison & Mayukh

Yara & Budoor

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Al Hawaj Ghabga Al Hawaj & Sons held a ghabga for members of the media and invited guests during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The ghabga was held at the Al Hawaj Gardens in Barbar which was also attended by Shaikh Isa bin Rashid Al Khalifa, members of the Diplomatic Corps, VIP guests, and the Al Hawaj family Dr Dhafer Al Umran, Shaikh Isa bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Jassim Al Zayani, Jawad Y. Al Hawaj & Paul Y.F. Hsu

Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj & HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador

HE Victor Smirnov, Russian Ambassador, HE Ahmed Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador & HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador

Shaikh Isa & Abdulwahab Al Hawaj

Helen & Mary

Khamis Al Muqla

Camille & Bambi

Ameena, Amal, Mariam & Zahar

Shamsu & Farooq

22 September 2013

Haytham & Mansoor

Yu Joohna & HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qadir, Palestinian Ambassador

Amal, Ahlan & Ameena

Abdulla & Abdulaziz

Anne, Alex, George & Sara

Sunita, Remya & Hareesh

Sara, Zainab & Hassan

Hazem, Shyam & Musthafa

Anwar, Abdulla & Ahmed

Husain, Ana & Sylvia

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Toyota Avalon is infused with innovations. The first glance is enough to evoke pure exhilaration. The inside is luxurious with ambient lighting, a high-tech dashboard with IntelliTouch™ controls that gives you a glimpse of the future. And for the driver, it is more fun behind the wheel with tighter suspension, paddle shifters and Drive Mode Select system.

Toyota Showroom - Sitra 17 730 730 www.toyota.com.bh

ToyotaBahrain

toyota_bh

bystanderthismonth

Mashreq Bahrain Ghabga On the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan, an annual ghabga night was held by Mashreq Bahrain, at Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa. The annual Ghabga was graced by Executive Vice President, Head of International Banking Group, John Iossifidis; Head of International Corporate Banking, Azeem Ur Rahim & Head of International Transaction Banking, Rahul Jayakar Vinayak, Rahul, Iqbal, Dilip, K. Prasad & Haseeb

Ullas, Alok, Malavika & Mahmood

Iqbal

Meshal, Ahmed, Akbar, Ali, Fahad & Mohammed

Tahera, Zahra, Amal, Malavika, Najla, Shirin, Joan & Farah (seated)

Azeem, Anzar, Pierre, Ramya & John

Amal, Farah & Zahra

Mashreq Bank executive management and staff

Absar

BFC Ghabga The Bahrain Finance Company (BFC) hosted a ghabga during the Holy Month of Ramadan for members of staff and guests. HE Ahmed Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador, attended the ghabga that was held at the InterContinental Regency's Al Thuraya Tent

Nor Hayati, HE Ahmed Shahizan, Errol, Dr Dhafer Al Umran, Sujai & Mehdi

Errol, Vipin, Sujai, Arun & Shaju

24 September 2013

Rajender & P.S. Chauhan

Ahmed, Ameera & Atiqa

Richard & Bhagwan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

A.A. Bin Hindi Staff Ghagba The management of A.A. Bin Hindi hosted a ghabga for members of their staff during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The event held at the Four Seasons Banquet Hall, Adhari Park was filled with lots of fun, games and fabulous prizes

Rochelle & Myra

Ahmed bin Hindi & Dena

Karthik & Ammu

Khalid, Faisal, Nawaf, Ameen & Momen

Rody & Arceli

Hassan, Momen, Ahmed, Priya, Muneer, Soumiya, Fatima, Elham & Abdulrahman

Angel, Myra, Rochelle, Andrew, Meryam, Najib & Menchie

Fatima & Lloyd

Noor & Fatima

Lorvan & Anish

Ruby, Bijju & Anweb

Fatel

Asha & Jobi

Zayan

Hussain, Ali & Ahmed

Ahmed, Sameera, Enas & Mariam

Shivakumar, Joshitha & Komal

Subhramaniyam

Sabre Staff Ghagba The management of Sabre hosted a ghabga for members of their staff and families during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The event held at the InterContinental Regency's Al Thuraya Tent

26 September 2013

Mohamed, Ebrahim & Marius

Sumayya, Faheem & Safar

Dana & Faten

Daniel

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Warbler 21st Anniversary Celebrations A number of people attended a fun-filled evening to celebrate the 21st anniversary of Warbler, at the Ramee Baisan Hotel on Exhibition Road last month

Biplab, Rana & Mr Mo

Neha, Rana & Randa

Rana & staff get ready to cut the anniversary cake

George, Trisha, Alex, Andrea, Yasmin, Josh, Rebecca, Arthur, Anne & Vijay

Ajay, Jitendra, Varghese, Harabilasha, Arfat & Vaibhav

Rana with staff members

28 September 2013

Shannon & Jessica

Anne, George, Charlie, Andrea, Alex & Trisha

Carina, Eden & Mae

Charles, Harish & Eric

Jumana & Poy

Russy, Harabilasha & Joyce

Jaswinder & Hemal

Andrea & Yasmin

Ashish Shetty & Subi

Venny, Heather & Rachael

Hind & Anna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VolkswagenCentreBahrain

Often copied. Never equaled.

The new Golf GTI. Available now at the Volkswagen showroom, Sitra.

o Starting fr

m

/0 0 9 , 2 1 .

D B

German engineering for everyone.

Sitra – Tel: 17459977 Email: volkswagen@behbehani.com.bh

www.volkswagen-bahrain.com

Do you know what you can pay for on bahrain.bh?

Scan the QR Code and I’ll tell you.

QR code scanner available FREE on App Store & Play Store

Benefit from over 40 ePayment services online, from settling your utility bills to paying vehicle fines, and get the chance to be one of the lucky winners* of an iPad Mini. *Increase your chances of winning before 20th September 2013

happeningsthismonth When? October 5 | Event? Desert Symphony 6 | Venue? Gulf International Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel SP Balasubrahmanyam and KS Chithra

An Oasis of Symphonies Ankita Mamgain After mesmerising audiences around the world, these multi-award-winning singers return to the Kingdom for an encore.

Ready to cast a melodious spell over the island, the musical concert Desert Symphony returns with its sixth edition. To be held at Gulf International Convention Centre at Gulf Hotel on October 5, the show brings back two artists that enthralled us in the past with an evening of soulful renditions.

With a repertoire that consists of over 36,000 songs in six languages, a multitude of awards, celebrated singer SP Balasubrahmanyam promises a stirring performance for the Kingdom’s music lovers.

He is joined by one of India’s most prolific female singers, KS Chithra, whose musical career spans decades and has thousands of songs to her credit. These stalwarts have sung a number of memorable tracks and have worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including AR Rahman.

The concert in its previous editions brought in star acts from the Indian entertainment industry, such as Sivamani and Usha Uthup, making it a much-anticipated annual event in Bahrain.

Although the concert strikes a special cord with the Indian expatriate population, the music promises to transcend the language barrier and engage one and all. Gulf International Also this month

Convention Centre provides a befitting ambience as one of the largest and most prestigious venues of its kind in the Middle East. With 4,780 square metres of space and state-of-the-art acoustics, it can accommodate over 2,000 guests and deliver a crystal-clear musical experience.

Music for a cause Desert Symphony is a CSR venture organised by the AMICOS Alumni Association, which has the aim of raising funds for various national charities. So far a total of BD20,000 has been raised and donated by it to a number of local NGOs in Bahrain over the past six years.

This year, the proceeds from the event go to the Royal Charity Organisation. It has previously contributed to Bahrain Down Syndrome Society, Bahrain Mobility International and Bahrain Cancer Society.

“We expect a great response for the show with locals and corporate groups coming forth to support us in giving back to the community,” says Vinod Patric, chief coordinator of the event.

The concert tickets are priced at BD100, which is a donor pass, admitting two and is inclusive of dinner after the show.

Other tickets cost BD20 and BD10, allowing entry for one. They can be bought from Mega Mart and Macro Mart outlets.

E Call 38 825-000.

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

www.bahrainthismonth.com

World days Recognise world days this month.

When? September 5 Event? Charity Day Familiarise yourself with local charities; lend a helping hand to a cause dear to you.

When? September 8 Event? Literacy Day Literacy is more than a priority; it is the ultimate investment in the future.

When? September 16 Event? Preservation of the Ozone Day Study the many small steps you can take to protect our atmosphere.

When? September 19 Event? Talk like a Pirate Day We finally have a solid excuse to channel Captain Jack Sparrow.

When? September 21 Event? Peace Day To change the world we have to change ourselves. Who will you make peace with?

When? September 27 Event? Tourism Day Why not take some time off today and plan your next big trip?

September 2013 31

happeningsthismonth

Reading Fever When? September 11, 12 and 13 Event? Stand-up comedy Venue? Various locations Three British comedians take the stage in an attempt to get you laughing.

E Call 36 663-509.

Book lovers can revel in a literary haven this month as the stage is set for the 20th edition of Al Ayam Cultural Fair. A number of local and international publishers will provide in bringing in books from all genres and languages, including Arabic and English.

Organisers hope to provide a culturally rich experience for visitors, giving school and university students a platform to connect with thousands of titles. The event will be held from September 16 to 24 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. E Visit www.alayamfestival.com.

Joining him on stage is Stuart Goldsmith, whose style channels effortless charisma and quick-fire timing. Stuart has performed stand-up in the French Alps and Austria and supported Mark Watson on tour.

Brilliant and smooth, Pete Johansson debuted on NBC’s Friday Night and has recorded an hour-long special for The Comedy Channel. He picked up the best newcomer award at Edinburgh in 2009. The shows will be held on September 11 at the Rugby Club, September 12 at the British Club and September 13 at the InterContinental Regency Hotel. E Call 36 663-509.

Zen mode Have you been looking to find your ‘inner peace’ but don’t know where to start? La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art has lined up three workshops with a leading instructor to get you started. To be held on September 20, 27 and October 4, Mine Yalcin will have you doing the downward dog in no time.

A Yoga Alliance-certified instructor by the International Sivananda Yoga Centre in Kerala, Mine completed the main module and advanced practicum at the Santa Barbara Yoga Center in California.

In addition, she holds a Thai yoga therapy and a therapeutic yoga certificate from the White Lotus Foundation in California.

She has been practising yoga for the last 12 years and teaching it for seven years. E Call 17 230-123.

When? September 16-24 Event? Book fair Venue? BIECC Looking to improve your collection? Find various titles at the Al Ayam Book Fair.

E Visit www.alayamfestival.com.

When? September 20, 27 Event? Yoga workshop Venue? La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art If you’ve finally decided to take up yoga, here is the way to do it.

E Call 17 230-123.

When? September 27 and 28 Event? Shopping festival Venue? Oasis Centre Enjoy an authentic family festival and support local charities.

E Call 36 451-527.

When? October 5 Event? Desert Symphony 6 Venue? Gulf International Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel In its sixth edition, Desert Symphony is set to enthral with live performances.

E Call 38 825-000.

32 September 2013

Giggle town Chuckle Club is back with three superb stand-up comedians and an extra venue this month. Chris Martin was a finalist at the Chortle Student Comedian and Amused Moose Laugh Off awards. He has supported Milton Jones and Zoe Lyons and appeared on BBC 3 and Radio 5.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth Mystic India

Summer Festival Calendar When? September 1 Event? Mohammed Assaf Concert Venue? BIECC Catch a musical evening delivered by the Middle East’s rising star.

E Call 80 008-089.

When? September 2-6 Event? Barney: Let’s Go! Live on Stage!

Venue? BIECC Take your kids to an entertaining musical production for ages two and above.

E Call 80 008-089.

Farida Mohammed

When? September 5 Event? Farida Mohammed Ali Concert Venue? BIECC Enjoy the melodic renditions of an icon of maqam music.

E Call 80 008-089.

When? September 8-9 Event? Mystic India: The World Tour Venue? BIECC A trip for your senses — Bollywood’s magic at its best.

E Call 80 008-089.

When? Until September 9 Event? Nakhool City Venue? BIECC Children can be part of educational activities and interactive sessions.

E Call 80 008-089.

34 September 2013

Celebration of Culture The Ministry of Culture’s Bahrain Summer Festival continues this month with some stunning performances in store.

Learning is fun When? Until September 9 Event? Nakhool City Venue? BIECC The Nakhool City project carries on in September with a number of fun activities for its young members. The workshops offer collage-making classes in addition to rangoli designs, kitchen craft and painting sessions. A special performance of dance, music and poetry will be staged by children from Jerusalem.

This programme is a great opportunity for kids to acquire new skills and learn about other cultures.

Singing sensation When? September 1 Event? Mohammed Assaf Concert Venue? BIECC The Palestinian prodigy, who has been propelled to fame thanks to his performances on talent show Arab Idol, has been delivering performances to packed audiences across the Middle East. Mohammad Assaf is all set to entrance the Kingdom with his soulful voice.

Often compared to the late Egyptian legend Abdbulhalim Hafez for his vocal strength and physical resemblance, he stands as an ambassador of culture and arts for the Palestinian government. His concert in Bahrain is one of the most anticipated shows of the summer festival.

Can you imagine?

When? September 2-6 Event? Barney: Let’s Go! Live on Stage!

Venue? BIECC With a remarkable adventure woven around the power of imagination, the festival stages a children’s musical Barney: Let’s Go! Live on Stage! The production is a trip that includes songs, dance and loads of entertainment.

Barney

The story revolves around how Barney and his friends BJ, Riff and Baby Bop accidentally break all their toys. They then build them up again with the help of Barney and his imagination in a magical toy factory. This creative tale is told with great performances, sets, props, and light and sound effects.

Melodic spell When? September 5 Event? Farida Mohammad Ali Concert Venue? BIECC A seasoned performer of the Iraqi maqam genre of music, Farida Mohammad Ali brings her illustrious voice to the Kingdom. Sure to be a highlight of the festival, her performances include famous Arabic folk poems aside from her own songs. With a string of best-selling albums to her credit, Farida’s popularity in the region is phenomenal. She specialises in maqam al-baghdadi style-music, which has its roots in the culture of Mesopotamia.

Larger than life When? September 8-9 Event? Mystic India: The World Tour Venue? BIECC Here’s a brilliant Bollywood dance production that transforms the stage into a vibrant space of movement and sound, setting up the life of Mumbai in cinemascope. The musical show includes elaborate sets, dramatic choreography and audiovisual theatrics.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsthismonth When? September 6-7 | Event? Summer festival | Venue? Coral Bay

SEVEN LEISURE

Weekend by the Bay Not limited to the Formula One glitterati, this popular recreational club invites you to a fun weekend that involves sun, sand and a splash!

36 September 2013

Coral Bay kicks off the month with two days of non-stop partying and feasting. Enjoy international cuisine, a fresh catch of the day, barbecue stations and cocktails while DJs that have been especially flown in, churn out the music.

Dive for debris Along with the launch of a fun-filled party marathon, the club’s annual environmental responsibility programme gets underway on September 6. Coral Bay welcomes volunteers to snorkel from 9am until noon and help remove underwater debris.

The cost of the clean-up is BD4 per person, and professional equipment will be provided. You don’t need to be a certified diver, either, to take part.

Simultaneously, the club hosts an international food and drinks festival, offering a variety of dishes and beverages from around the world. Resident DJs Miled and Dave Hayes take care of the poolside entertainment and set the stage for the headline act by London-based DJ Lizzie Curious. This is your chance to dance to an eclectic mix of commercial and house music.

Families that have booked a day of beach and pool fun can visit the water sports centre and engage in a number of activities, such as jet skiing and water-boarding. The venue also offers a thrilling experience on the banana boat.

Make some noise!

Those who miss out on the action on the first day need not worry. The smoky grills, cool concoctions and live music continue on September 7; the second day of the festival is all about fun at the pool with a dash of glamour.

The Kingdom’s popular Irish venue, JJ’s Irish Restaurant & Pub, loans its resident band, The Noise, to set the stage ablaze from 4-7pm. The party picks up with DJ Swing spinning out his signature R&B and hip-hop tunes.

The music will be accompanied by a swimsuit competition.

So, stay on for more dips and drinks, drenched in style. The entrance fee for both days is BD10, inclusive of the party with DJ Lizzie Curious. However, if you only wish to join in the Saturday pool party, the cost is BD5.

E Call 17 717-370.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Our New Zealand lamb is carefully selected from the best farmers, reared in open pastures, grass fed and hormone free. We are proud to be premium, everyday.

happeningsartsculture When? September 30 | Event? Gallery opening | Venue? Nadine Gallery, Mahooz

When? Until September 30 Event? Photography competition Venue? TBA Photograph the essence of friendship to win an iPod nano.

E Call 17 574-100.

When? September 3 Event? Book reading Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Join Rania Zaghir for a creative journey through children’s books.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? From September 14 Event? Art and photography classes Venue? Nadine Art Gallery Experts conduct art and photography classes for students of different learning levels.

E Call 77 442-222.

Nadine Al Sheikh

Following Her Heart Ankita Mamgain This business graduate is today a forerunner of the island’s art scene. Bahrain This Month talks to Nadine Al Sheikh as she prepares for yet another milestone in her journey.

“I am so excited. Success is a great feeling,” says Nadine Al Sheikh, artist, curator and the force behind Nadine Art Gallery.

“It feels great, especially when you overcome the challenges and deliver within the set time-frame.”

These days, she is busy putting final touches to her upcoming venture, a new space set to open in Mahooz on September 30.

The new gallery is the third space under the Nadine brand along with the ones in Umm al Hassam and Gufool.

“We have grown tremendously from the point at which we started, with each challenge and responsibility making us stronger. Nadine Gallery Mahooz is over 10 times bigger than the other branches and is a result of expanding our activities and goals,” she notes.

Extremely proud of the new space, Nadine explains that it fits her vision and will accommodate all activities the other galleries couldn’t have.

“It allows us to host a larger number of workshops and have much larger displays,” she explains.

In her journey that spans a little over half a decade, Nadine has expanded her operations beyond the galleries’ walls. The brand today is involved in events, interior planning, framing, art classes and studio rentals. The Mahooz gallery allows her to sell art books, DVDs and other supplies.

38 September 2013

“The gallery will sell furniture made by local artists and designers. It includes a lounge as well, where art lovers can appreciate the creative atmosphere,” she added.

When the arts came calling Talking about the turning point in her life, the former human resources professional says, “Everything happens for a reason.

I was attracted towards colours, design and creativity ever since I was a child. This passion translated into the choices I made in life.”

She recalls how she quit her job in 2006 and moved to Singapore for a year.

“The art galleries, museums and culture in that country amazed and inspired me to have my own gallery in Bahrain. I started working on setting up my own art space while I was still there,” Nadine says.

Coming from a family of artists, she attributes her success to her father, who is also her greatest inspiration.

“He is very proud of my success and pushes me day after day to achieve more. He sometimes even gives me a few tips here and there,” she adds. “Launching the Annual Exhibition for Bahraini Female Artists (BFA) two years ago is an unforgettable time for us. It motivated me greatly to keep going.”

The exhibition’s third edition is scheduled for November this year and is being organised on a large scale.

“For me the sky is the limit. My vision is to turn Nadine Gallery into an arts centre. I plan to curate international exhibitions in Bahrain and take local artists abroad,” she adds.

When? September 11-23 Event? Poster design workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Ion de la Rocha conducts sessions on poster designs.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? September 12 Event? Poetry Festival Venue? MODA Mall The Folk Poetry Society brings together prominent regional poets.

E Call 17 539-514.

When? September 12-24 Event? Graphic design workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Graphic designer Ion de la Rocha conducts interactive classes.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? September 26-October 17 Event? Painting exhibition Venue? Maison Jamsheer Two celebrated Bahraini artists display their latest works.

E Call 17 683-295.

When? September 29-October 10 Event? Styling workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Join Leticia Orúe as she uncovers the aesthetics of styling.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? September 30 Event? Gallery opening Venue? Nadine Art Gallery Join Nadine Al Shaikh for a grand gallery opening at Mahooz.

E Call 77 442-222.

When? September 30-October 12 Event? Fashion photography workshop Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space Acclaimed photographer José Morraja decodes fashion photography in these sessions.

E Call 17 717-441.

E Call 77 442-222.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

USA | CANADA | UAE | OMAN | QATAR | SAUDI ARABIA

happeningsartsculture When? Throughout September | Event? Art workshops | Venue? Al Riwaq Art Space

Creative Designs

When? September 14-December 1 | Event? Art and photography classes | Venue? Nadine Art Gallery

An inspiring art space in the heart of Manama, Al Riwaq offers a number of workshops throughout September. Artist and graphic designer Ion de la Rocha teaches graphic design from September 12 to 24 and poster design from September 11 to 23. Striving to create synergy between the visible and the tangible, he makes quirky layouts and is involved in design training, art direction, advertising and web design.

From September 29 until October 10, the gallery hosts a styling workshop

by Leticia Orúe. A photography workshop will be organised by renowned photographer José Morraja from September 30 until October 12. He will

share his experience with photography enthusiasts covering nuances of the art form when shooting for fashion.

This is however a small fraction of the roster of art exhibitions, residency and educational programmes that Al Riwaq Art Space hosts through out the year. The gallery has played a pivotal role in training and encouraging local artistic talent, bridging the gap between Bahraini and international artists, and providing opportunities for collaboration and exchange.

E Call 17 717-441.

When? September 3 | Event? Book reading | Venue? Albareh Art Gallery

Weaving a New World Take your kids out for an interactive session with Lebanese literary figure, Rania Zaghir.

A promoter of children’s literature, she will read from a selection of her books. The writer and publisher discusses serious topics with children in ways they can

understand through imaginative and often hilarious illustrations and text.

Inviting children aged between six to 10 years, the event is free of charge. The talk covers the importance of art work and illustrations in children’s books as well.

E Call 17 717-707.

Colours to Capture Nadine Gallery hosts courses and workshops which are designed to reach out to aspiring artists of all ages and levels of learning. The art classes begin from September 14 and are taken by Polish artist Helena Bozena. Having worked as an arts teacher for many years, her goal with each child is to challenge their imagination and encourage personal expression.

The photography classes are conducted by Adel Karimi, a well-known Bahraini landscape photographer. He’s joined by Ansar Alhalal, an internationally known freelance photographer. The two teach nuances of digital photography.

E Call 77 442-222.

40 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningsclubssocieties When? September 27 | Event? Live concert | Venue? Dilmun Club

The Revival of Rock An English alternative rock band has sold over two million albums worldwide after breaking into the UK’s music scene in 1997. This month, they set foot on the island for the very first time.

Toploader created a string of Top 20 hits with their debut album, which sold over one million units. The tracks helped the band remain in the ‘Top 5 of the UK Albums Chart’ for over six months. Although they have been under the radar in recent years, especially with a long hiatus after their second album, their hit songs like Dancing in the Moonlight and Achilles’ Heel were ‘90s anthems.

“Before Joseph Washbourn, Dan Hipgrave, Rob Green and Matt Knight will hit the stage at 8.30pm, concert-goers can enjoy local bands Revival, Past Masters and Mushkillaz, who will kick off the night at 6pm,” says Dilmun Club general manager, Mark Rowe.

“There will be a BBQ taking place throughout the event as well. Tickets are at BD35, inclusive of food and drink, and BD20 for the concert alone.”

Known to be a home away from home, the Dilmun Club is a family haven comprising more than 3,000 members of different nationalities. Boasting a friendly staff and unbeatable social, sports and dining facilities, the club is a staple for rest and recuperation.

To keep your calendar full, the long-standing household name in Bahrain’s recreational scene has lined up a series of fun

42 September 2013

events over the next few months. In October, watch out for the annual BSPCA quiz night dinner as well as a fundraiser for the archaeological expedition to the Royal Burial Mounds.

Keep your ears to the ground for other charity events as the club always tries to lend a helping hand to the local community.

“In the past, we have worked with many local charities. Tony the dogfather, the BSPCA and now more regularly other charities have approached us for help in raising funds,” Mark adds.

To get some laughs in, October will also see the club’s popular comedy night, featuring four stand-up comedians from the UK and regular host Barry Davidson.

Kids and sports are always at centre stage at the Dilmun Club, offering a host of fun activities all year round.

“We have an extensive kids’ football programme throughout the year. Held under the supervision of head coach Lee McDonald, this is a hit amongst younger members,” Mark notes. “A favourite is our swimming lessons available in our climate-controlled pool. Another winner is our pony club, available every day except Fridays. We’ve built a new Nine Hole Crazy Golf course. The floodlit venue is open for games at all times for BD1.”

A junior tennis section is organised by coach Dan Barrie.

Taekwondo lessons and summer camps keep the children occupied. Additionally, the club holds a disco or prize night every Wednesday and movie screening every Thursday.

Toploader

When? September 6 Event? Performance arts Venue? Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam Celebrate Onam with your family and enjoy a series of activities.

E Call 17 251-878.

When? September 6-7 Event? Summer festival Venue? Coral Beach Club Celebrate the end of summer with your near and dear.

E Call 17 312-700.

When? September 10, 24 Event? Quiz nights Venue? British Club Enjoy a night out with a little bit of quizzing.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? September 27 Event? Concert Venue? Dilmun Club Relive the ‘90s alternative rock age as Toploader comes to town.

E Call 17 690-926.

E Call 17 690-926.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningskidsteens When? Throughout September | Event? Sports activities | Venue? Various locations

Extracurricular Fun The digital generation may be smarter and quicker, but children definitely need some old school ‘real-life’ games when it comes to improving their activity levels.

If you’ve been worrying about your child’s fitness and health, how about signing them up for fun programmes? Bahrain This Month rounds up the top leagues, tournaments and events that will have your kids begging you for a quick game of ball in the garden.

Serve an ace If they have previously shown an interest in tennis, the Jump Gym for Kids Mini Tennis Festival will have them wielding their racquets like professionals in no time. Open for those aged five to 12 years, the games will be held from September 19 to 21 from 5pm at the Bahrain Tennis Club grounds. The event includes other fun games to enjoy as well.

Budding athletes can take part in a series of friendly competitions. The club will hold a new training programme from September 14. The sessions are categorised into beginners, intermediates, development squad and advanced levels.

E Call 36 333-720.

Kick off!

Starting from September 27, the Royal Golf Club’s popular Junior Golf Programme gets under way with a new, six-week-

44 September 2013

long series of one-hour classes. Children who love the outdoor game will engage in challenging, but rewarding, physical and mental activities appropriate to their age.

E Call 17 589-380.

The right swing Starting from September 27, the Royal Golf Club’s popular Junior Golf Programme gets under way with a new, six-weeklong series of one-hour classes. Children who love the outdoor game will engage in challenging, but rewarding, physical and mental activities appropriate to their age.

The course aims to have youngsters gain strength, speed, agility, balance and confidence. The programme is suitable for beginners and experts alike. E Call 17 750-777.

A selfless move If you want to teach your kids the importance of charity, have them join RIA Centre’s Peace One Day event. The football league is played at the same time all over the world in a bid to raise awareness of the International Day of Peace.

Held on September 21, the winning team will receive a Peace One Day trophy. The teams’ entrance fees will be donated to the cause.

RIA caters to the needs of mainstream learners as well as students with special educational needs. Visitors can enjoy a play area, music and market stalls. E Call 33 348-826.

When? September 7 Event? Art workshop Venue? Organic Foods & Café Get your kids in a creative mood with this fun mosaic workshop.

E Call 16 536-094.

When? September 19-21 Event? Tennis training Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club Have your kids join tennis tournaments and festivals.

E Call 36 333-720.

When? September 21 Event? Charity tournament Venue? Kick Off Academy Celebrate the World Peace Day by taking part in this international event.

E Call 33 348-826.

When? September 27 Event? Golf programme Venue? Royal Golf Club This juniors’ programme will have your little ones turn into golfing pros.

E Call 17 750-777.

When? Throughout September Event? Soccer camp Venue? The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Have your children practise free kicks and shoot for goals.

E Call 17 589-380.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happeningssportsrecreation When? Throughout September | Event? Sports leagues | Venue? Various locations

Rugby tournament

Game, Set, Match As the summer holiday comes to an end, Bahrain gets ready for a brand-new sporting season. Bahrain This Month rounds up this year’s must-watch leagues.

It has been a long summer for sports fans, but the game drought is almost over. The Kingdom’s clubs and groups have released their 2013-14 fixtures. It looks like it’s going to be another year of exciting battles.

Olé, olé, olé!

First up is the national football season that will see 19 teams go at it for top honours. Last year’s champions, Busaiteen, will look for another year of glory and hope to beat other favourites, Muharraq, West Riffa and Hidd.

An exciting change this time around is the increase in the number of matches to be played, to 205 throughout the various age groups. The Bahrain Football Association Cup is set to be played from September 11 to December 29, while the Bahrain Premier League kicks off on September 20 and continues to May next year. E Call 17 685-775.

Take your positions To catch up on your local and regional rugby teams, the Bahrain Football and Rugby Club start their season on September 27.

The games will be played between Bahrain, Qatar and Muscat before heading into the second round of the competition to kickstart the Gulf Top Six.

46 September 2013

When? Throughout September Event? Football games Venue? Various locations The county’s favourite sport is back for another exciting season.

E Call 17 685-775.

Defending champions Abu Dhabi looks for another victory this year while fan favourites Jebel Ali Dragons, who won the Rugby Cup last year, try to keep the title. Bahrain’s own team also aims for gold with four squad additions hailing from the UK and Ireland. E Call 39 562-408.

Shoot first If you are looking to get in on the sporting action yourself, head down to the British Club for their open-to-all netball season. The games start on September 8 and will be played every Sunday and Tuesday at the club grounds from 7.15-9pm with teams to suit every playing level. E Call 39 982-707 or 38 357-161.

Run for it!

The Bahrain Road Runners (BRR) has officially kicked off their 2013-14 events by opening registration for their annual Aquathlon to be held on October 4. Open to juniors, adults and teams, youngsters will compete in a 300m swim followed by a 2km run, while adults have to complete a 600m swim followed by a 6km run.

The BRR are keeping busy throughout the year, organising their annual Grand Prix series and a cross-island event to be run by the end of the year. E Call 33 011-252.

If that’s not enough action for you, keep your ears to the ground as the Kingdom plays host to the GCC Handball Championship later in the year.

When? September 8 Event? Netball tournament Venue? British Club Join a game of netball as the club’s sporting season gets under way.

E Call 39 982-707.

When? September 27 Event? Rugby league Venue? Various locations The GCC rugby league competition kicks off this month with exciting fixtures.

E Call 39 562-408.

When? October 4 Event? Aquathlon Venue? Hamala Beach Resort The Bahrain Road Runners launch their new season with a series of events.

E Call 33 011-252.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ma'ameer 17 703 703 Arad 17 465 533

www.zmotors.com

*Terms and conditions apply.

bystanderthismonth

Crowne Plaza Media Iftar The Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosted a media Iftar during the Holy Month of Ramadan at the hotel's Spices Restaurant last month

Priya, Mona & Vivek

Jocelyn, Abu & Manvi

Suseno, Sarjeet, Santosh, Jaffar, Anura & Azeem

Shabana & Peter

Priya & Neha

Sehrish & Khan

Gopu & Bambi

Emirates Airlines Media Iftar Emirates Airlines hosted a media ghabga during the Holy Month at the Gulf Hotel's Ramadan Tent. The event was attended by Dubai based Jonathan Hill, PR Manager, Emirates, Middle East, Gulf & Iran, Reema Al Marzooqi, Emirates Manager in Bahrain, Emirates team members and media

Mustafa & Tariq

David, Jonathan Hill & Geoffery

Rabab & Mohamed

Yusra & Kareem

Reema Al Marzooqi & Ahmed

Hatim Omar & Abdul Majeed

Boutaina & Labiba

Abdul & Ahmed

Ponderosa Gergaoun Ponderosa Steakhouse held a traditional children's Gergaoun at the restaurant in Seef Area. Children were invited to dress in their finest traditional wear and recieved gifts and other goodies

Mohammed, Banee, Abdulla, Samu & Areez

Ponderosa staff at the event

48 September 2013

Shaikha & Lilian

Nelson, Samu & Tilak

Sabina & Skylar

Alam

Cynthia & Berna

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Abdulla Adel Fakhro Ghabga Abdulla Adel Fakhro hosted a media ghabga on behalf of McDonalds Bahrain and the Fakhro Group during the Holy Month. The ghabga was held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa

Abdulla Adel Fakhro & Mohammed

Waleed & Abdulla

Ahmad & Ahmed

Waleed, Abdulla Fakhro, Abbas, Mohammed, Ali, Ali, Ahmad & Ahmed

GPIC Staff Ghabga Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) hosted a staff ghabga during the Holy Month at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

Abdulrahman Jawahery opens the ghabga

Eman, Mayan, Fatima & Elham

Raeda, Lulwa & Tagreed

Ahmed, Abdulrahman Jawahery, Abdulla & Zainab

Fawzi & Adnan

Yaser & Bader

Zuher

Y.K. Almoayyed Ghabga Y.K. Almoayyed Motoring Division held a ghabga during the Holy Month for the company's fleet customers. The event was held at the Gulf Hotel's Ramadan tent

Rohit, Paul, Gowtham, Aziz & Keshav

Some fleet customers with Y.K. Almoayyed managers

50 September 2013

Mohammed Almoayyed, Abdulrahman, Paul & Keshav

Gowtham, Ruzbeh & Mohanty

Hamad

www.bahrainthismonth.com

personalitythismonth

A Life of Service Maeve Skinner One year after his arrival in the Kingdom, the first Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia is busy readying plans to open a new Catholic cathedral in Awali.

His Lordship Bishop Camillo Ballin is no stranger to Arabia, having served the Catholic community in the region for more than 44 years. Born in 1944 in the Italian province of Padua, Ballin joined the Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus when he was 19 years old.

After his ordination as a priest he elected to retrace the steps of the first pope, but in reverse. Travelling from Rome to the Levant his service to the Middle East began, in 1969, when he studied Arabic at the University of Damascus.

“My tutor spoke only Arabic so I was plunged into the Arabic language from day one,” he recalls. “This exceptional man, who is still alive today aged 99, was a teacher of the deaf and dumb, so I also learnt by sign language.”

This method was so efficient that, many years later, the bishop developed the method to teach Arabic to foreign students at the Dar Comboni Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies in Cairo.

“I then published a book, The Way to Teach Arabic (Al-Tariqa ila al-lugha al-’arabiyyah), written only in Arabic. It is now a standard reference book at the institute,” he says with pride.

“Recently, I was honoured to be granted Bahraini citizenship, which requires an ability to speak Arabic, by His Majesty King Hamad. When I was presented with my passport I had recited some verses from a 150-year-old Koran; His Majesty congratulated me on my fluency.

“I explained to him my strong desire to be granted citizenship, to bring me closer to the people of Bahrain and to Arabia. My heart is here and I have a great respect for Islam.

Of course, having a Bahrain passport will be of great help as I constantly travel around the northern Gulf to visit the nine parishes within my diocese.”

Although Bahrain is the Gulf country most open to other religions, both Kuwait and Qatar are tolerant and have also granted land to the Catholic Church. According to the bishop there are two and a half million Catholics in the Northern Vicariate, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia and is served by 51 priests, including seven in the Kingdom.

Prior to his arrival in Bahrain, the bishop, who was appointed to his position by the former Pope Benedict XVI, had lived in Egypt, Sudan and Lebanon.

bystanderthismonth

InterNations Reception InterNations - a trusted Network & Guide for Expats in Bahrain held a reception for members to mix and mingle with fellow expats and global minds last month.

The event was held at Zoe's estaurant in Adliya

Florentina, Burak & Archana

Anais, Jachim, Eddie, Raj & Bashir

Lalit, Rocio & Puneet

52 September 2013

Evelyn, Johanna, Catriona & Deborah

Btisam, Burak, Archana & Maggie

Daisy, Joseph & Gisele

Daya & Alex

Susan, Antoinette & Anja

Rocio & Philipp

George & DJ Daniel

Viveka & Hanan

Aseel & Marwa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

An appreciation of history Ballin is a dedicated historian and during his career has published a number of books, with some in Arabic, on theology, religion and history of the church. Not surprisingly his favourite books, for leisure, are on history.

“I am surprised at the lack of books on Bahrain’s history,” he says. “Particularly as this country has a wealth of archaeological sites and its culture and heritage are the oldest in the Arabian Gulf.”

During his time in Sudan, Ballin opened a training institute for teachers of religion in schools and gained a unique insight into the history of this African nation. Hosting one of the earliest Christian communities, it inspired him to base the thesis for his doctorate on the church’s history in Sudan during the Mahdiyyah period from 1881 to 1898.

“At this time all other religions were forbidden except Mahdist Islam,” he explains. “For my thesis I researched how Christians and Jews lived through those years of persecution.”

An expanding congregation “We are fortunate in the Kingdom, and the Gulf in general, to enjoy freedom of worship,” says the bishop. “In Bahrain we have a wide range of nationalities and languages and five rites. These include Latin (or Roman), Maronite, Coptic, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara; the latter two emanate from India.”

HM King Hamad has donated land in Awali to build a new Catholic cathedral. Bahrain was the first Gulf state to build a Catholic church when the late Amir Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa granted the church land in Manama in 1939.

“When the church was first consecrated there were only 100 Catholics in Bahrain; now there are more than 100,000 and we urgently need new premises, particularly because of the parking problems,” says Ballin.

“The Catholic church in Bahrain is not only a place of prayer; it offers a vital source of comfort both socially and spiritually to our predominantly migrant congregations, the majority of whom are here on single contracts living far from their families and homelands, and are often very poor. They differ completely from those coming from Europe.

“Asians are very religious and faithful to the church, while sadly the majority of Europeans in our community are less interested. We help our Asian worshippers to form friendships with their fellow countrymen and become part of the community.

“I also encourage our parishioners to get to know Bahrain, its people, history, geography and political structure. I explain how the word of God tells us to love our neighbours as ourselves, which means not just other Christians but all religions.

“Our regular meetings are held only for spiritual purposes; in every Mass our priests say a special prayer for HM King Hamad, the Prime Minister, the Crown Prince, the Government and the people of Bahrain.

“We see our mission being to help our congregation to live the Christian way of life and to form a better society by collaborating substantially towards civil society. Many do this by volunteering in fields of youth and family ministry, comforting those in hospitals and prisons and performing social work.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bishop Camillo Ballin

xxxxx We are fortunate in the Kingdom, and the Gulf in general, to enjoy freedom of worship “I also like meeting my parishioners personally and accept invitations to their homes, which helps me to get to know individuals better and to understand their lives and problems.

The human touch is important. I want my congregation to approach me freely, not as an Italian bishop but as one of them. I am here for everyone. For Gulf Arabs, I am Bahraini; for Indians, Filipinos and other nationalities, I am their nationalities,” says the soft-spoken bishop.

Ballin recently published a book, titled Exploring our Catholic Faith. This is a compilation of questions and answers gathered during his years as a bishop in Kuwait. The book deals with a large range of issues in a straightforward, easy-to-read format.

The bishop enjoys classical music — Mozart, Puccini and Beethoven — and particularly Gregorian chants, which he claims are the most uplifting of all voice music. He also loves Latin verse and hopes to introduce some hymns into the church in Bahrain.

As for holidays, he says it is impossible! He visits Italy once a year but spends so much time catching up with family and friends and attending meetings at the Vatican that he has little time for anything else. After 44 years in the Middle East, he is a stranger in his own country.

His main priority now, though, is to shepherd his flock into the next stage of the church’s development when the new cathedral, dedicated to Our Lady of Arabia, opens in Awali.

September 2013 53

diplomatictalk

xxxxx There are around ten Sri Lankan companies operating here in the consulting, manufacturing and service sectors and we need to work with them to develop links with local Bahraini businessmen

HE RKMA Rajakaruna

Consolidating Ties Simi Kamboj The long-awaited Sri Lankan Embassy has finally opened doors in Bahrain. The newlyresident ambassador goes over his checklist of priorities with us.

54 September 2013

For a number of years there’s been a strong demand for an embassy to represent the interests of 25,000-odd Sri Lankans in Bahrain. Accordingly, the arrival of His Excellency RKMA Rajakaruna earlier this year was a very welcome development.

There exists a strong bilateral relationship between the two island nations, who have faced common issues nationally and internationally and have taken a similar approach in tackling them, he feels. One of Ambassador Rajakaruna’s main undertakings will be the promotion of trade and investment between the two countries.

Peace has arrived in Sri Lanka’s northern and eastern provinces for the first time after a 30-year conflict and the country has witnessed an 8 per cent economic growth in the last four years.

“There is great potential for investment as Sri Lanka is experiencing rapid economic growth after the war. Tourism and infrastructure are really booming and companies from Bahrain and Qatar have already invested in some of the pristine beaches to develop tourism,” he says.

Trade push Bilateral trade has reached the US$15 million mark and is in favour of Sri Lanka, which exports rubber products, agricultural produce, electric and camping gear as well as tea and spices to Bahrain. The ambassador has identified the potential for further exports in areas including gems and jewellery, furniture and textiles and garments from his country.

This year, the Sri Lankan deputy minister for foreign affairs visited Bahrain and met the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) chairman Dr Esam Fakhro to discuss greater exchange between the two business communities.

“There are around ten Sri Lankan companies operating here in the consulting, manufacturing and service sectors and we need to work with them to develop links with local Bahraini businessmen. We've requested the BCCI to organise a business delegation to Sri Lanka to participate in the business forum at the Commonwealth Head of States Summit in November,” His Excellency notes.

Safeguarding domestic workers Given the significant number of Sri Lankan workers employed as household staff in Bahrain, one of his top priorities includes streamlining the domestic worker sector.

The Sri Lankan embassy in Bahrain has initiated the practice of interviewing Bahraini sponsors and their wives before they approve a contract to bring a Sri Lankan housemaid to the Kingdom.

“We want to assert that being a sponsor entails certain responsibilities, which include looking after your domestic worker. We’ll do our best to ensure that our workers are employed by caring, humane and responsible families,” says the ambassador.

The stipulated minimum wage of BD85 hasn’t been honoured by certain sponsors, primarily because Sri Lankan manpower agencies send workers directly to Bahrain, but the Sri Lankan Foreign Employment Bureau has placed checks at Colombo airport to ensure that workers don’t leave the country without a valid work contract.

“Every contract for a housemaid should outline the specific work to be done in the house so that not all the house work such as cleaning, cooking, baby sitting, washing and ironing, car washing and gardening and working in the houses of other family members is entrusted to a single worker. This will prevent overwork and abuse,” he notes.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

spotlightthismonth

Fresh Horizons Simi Kamboj With a new principal firmly in situ, this international school is moving on to higher aspirations and new goals.

56 September 2013

The new head of The British School of Bahrain (BSB), Dr Charles Wall, is a down-to-earth person comfortable in his own skin.

With a PhD in theoretical physics, he has taught at schools in the UK, Cairo, Singapore and Zimbabwe before taking up his new assignment on August 1. He was most recently head of the senior school at the British International School in Cairo, where he taught for five years.

The 52-year-old concedes he was a late arrival in the realm of teaching, his interest in education piquing when he worked with international development charity Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO) after completion of his doctoral degree.

“I enjoy working with parents and students; I’ve realised that you learn more when you teach in a challenging environment,” he says, referring perhaps to his earlier stint in Zimbabwe in the 1980s where he taught at schools lacking essential equipment and infrastructure.

It was BSB’s child-centred approach to learning that drew him to Bahrain, he explains, and he hopes to work alongside the school’s staff to shape an institution that is stronger than it has ever been.

Taking over in an environment of some contention, Dr Wall would like to establish his credentials foremost as a conscientious educator whose focus rests on the learning process.

“I have no pretensions about myself and my role. The big task before me is to reassure everyone that it’s all about

Dr Charles Wall

getting down to basics, that is, the learning of our pupils. This is where we are; we need to put the past behind us and move forward to our goals,” he says.

The straight-talking head makes it clear that he welcomes constructive feedback on how the school is doing and will encourage open, two-way communications between home and school. Dr Wall proposes a more democratic set-up which might involve opening up the school board further to parents so that it is truly representative of all stakeholders.

“The board is our critical friend. We want to make sure that the decisions taken resonate well in all sections of the community,” he avers. The Board is committed to ensuring that the BSB becomes a school of choice and Dr Wall will ensure that the board and school work together cohesively to this end.

Training teachers The market for international schools is growing exponentially worldwide, with demand coming from the expanding expatriate market as well as wealthy local families who recognise the benefit of an English-medium education. Recruiting good teachers overseas is not a challenge anymore, given the broad network that educators maintain these days.

“The world is a small place now and, once a British educator steps out of the UK, there is really no dearth of work opportunities. In Cairo, we were able to keep the school

www.bahrainthismonth.com

running through the revolution and still attain quality marks in the process,” he observes.

At the BSB, he intends to support the career growth of teaching staff in terms of enabling them to attain advanced skills and to keep themselves afoot with the teaching practices in the UK. “The prospect of contributing to tomorrow’s leadership is very exciting to us and I want to assure our staff that we’ll do our best in linking them back to the prevailing practices in the UK, including advances skills training,” he says.

Stimulating approach Pupils learn in various ways, depending on their abilities, learning styles, preferences and interests and there are certainly some challenges in catering for the ‘different learner’.

However, there are manageable ways of doing this if the educators can build a rapport with the pupils.

For Dr Wall, learning needs to be a challenging, purposeful and, above all, an engaging process. “We cannot become so besotted with levels that the learning becomes stultifying.

Learning is all about understanding. Once the lesson has been digested, pupils need to construct their own meaning and understanding and transfer it to other contexts.”

He favours a nurturing approach that ensures every child makes progress. Once the learners know what their learning capabilities are, lessons could be set up in such a way that there’s no hiding place. Students learn best if teachers can get them into an engaged mode, he believes.

The use of technology in classrooms has been the subject of much debate, but the school continues to integrate technology effectively across the curriculum in ways that deepen and enhance the learning process.

The BSB has taken care to maintain the quality and size of its classes, with the result that admissions to Year 3 and Year 7 have been frozen for a while.

“What parents should know is that we’re a certain size; about 24 students in every class and we respect the quality.

Obviously, waiting lists are not good for the parents, but we’d like to be open, welcoming and honest about our intake through regular communications with them,” he says.

Closer engagement with the Friends of the BSB, a parent-led organisation, will help to keep parents and the wider community in the loop.

Expanding horizons While Dr Wall is all for quality-driven expansion, he is not in favour of an aggressive growth exercise just for the sake of it.

The BSB is currently in the process of a US$1.6 million expansion programme, which he believes will serve the school needs for the next five years.

“We believe in natural growth and we do what we’re best at.

But I believe that we could offer the IB programme, that would make us outstanding in every sense, not just from an inspection point of view,” he points out.

An international school such as BSB cannot afford to be complacent and should look further afield to offer a wider suite of options for its students. Having taught at the Tanglin Trust School at Singapore earlier in his career, he favours the Tanglin model which prepares secondary-age students for GCSE and

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A-level examinations, alongside the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Dr Wall is particularly keen on a one-year University Foundation programme that will help Bahraini students prepare for admission into universities of their choice in the UK. The school will soon seek an approval in this regard from the Ministry of Education.

However, he would like the BSB to cater even for students who are seeking something other than the IB and A-level options.

“We want to collaborate with other schools in Bahrain to offer the widest possible range of choice for students. Every child should have the option to pursue what he or she wants to; they should even be provided the vocational route, if that’s what they truly want,” he believes.

A school’s influence stretches far beyond that of merely educating; boarding schools in the UK have long been held as templates for holistic education, with their emphasis on extra curricular activities, healthy habits and pasttimes that shape pupils into well-rounded, competent individuals.

An artist's impression of the completed BSB expansion programme

Beyond a ‘school’ The BSB aspires to move in that direction with its academies, which offer a diverse range of courses in the three main areas of sports, performing arts and creative art. Courses are open not only to students but the wider community in Bahrain.

BSB’s Sports Academy provides courses in swimming, football, basketball, tennis, gymnastics, Taekwondo and Aikido, as well as Zumba for women.

The Performing Arts Academy boasts five full-time specialist music teachers dedicated to teaching musical instruments and voice. Tuition is available for young performers and adults through a range of courses.

Under the umbrella of Creative Academies are the Bahrain Chess Academy and Handwriting Academy, as well as courses such as ‘Bricks for Kids’, ceramic painting and Arabic for beginners. These are set to expand further in course of the year.

Above all, the new school head aspires to see BSB as the strongest school it can possibly be.

“In the coming years, I see us offering a diverse choice of programmes to our students. The BSB should be an extension and complementary to other alternatives on the island,” he believes.

In addition to its hugely successful academies, the BSB’s Evening Institute for Adults offers the opportunity for grown-ups to develop new skills, hobbies and further their qualifications in their spare time. People can choose from a wide variety of courses, including Italian and Mediterranean cooking, Arabic classes, photography and sailing.

September 2013 57

businessthismonth When? September 16 | Event? Life-changing seminar | Venue? Gulf Hotel

Dan Clark

A Winning Attitude Simi Kamboj Seeking to empower your team to higher levels of performance? A day with Dan Clark provides an insight into inspiring leadership habits that transform lives.

How does a successful person differ from one of significance?

It’s all in the attitude. Successful people get what they want, but significant individuals want what they get — the real definition of enduring happiness, believes professional motivational speaker Dan Clark.

“Too many leaders spend time telling employees what they need to do and how they should do it, when they should be inspiring them about the ‘why’. Once we answer the ‘why’, figuring out the ‘how to’ is simple,” he says.

This happens because leaders think they can coach results. In reality, they can only coach behaviour.

“You can’t tell your employees ‘sell more’, ‘gain more market share’ and ‘be more productive’. All you can do is coach the right attitude; when the attitude is right, people’s abilities will always catch up,” explains Dan, who is the author of 21 books and a primary contributor to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.

Organised by the BIBF in collaboration with Takatof, the seminar is for those seeking to transform their personal and professional lives. In his travels worldwide, Dan finds that people everywhere want the same thing — happiness.

“In reality, happiness is not discovered, it’s created.

Also this month

Successful people think happiness is the destination, focusing on what’s impressive. But those striving to live lives of significance know happiness is found in a never-ending journey of focusing on what’s important.”

His advice to corporate leaders navigating the downturn is to be intuitive. This involves aligning your emotions and understanding of the environment with the stress, pain and emotions of those you lead and the customers you serve.

“When the markets are depressed, it’s time to position yourself and establish your value. You need to keep yourself motivated so that you can inspire your team to stretch further, accomplish more with less and become more of who they are,” he suggests.

Fear of failure and quick decision-making are typically the challenges that business leaders face in the region. Dan holds that failure is essentially an event, not a person. “There’s a difference between the person and the performance; if you haven’t failed a few times, it means you’re not pushing yourself hard enough.”

Effective leaders and CEOs should recognise that pain is a signal for growth; once we learn the lesson pain is teaching us, the pain goes away. In other words, there are no mistakes in life, only lessons.

“Significant leaders recognise that we learn more from failures than from our victories. There’s no shame in admitting the lessons you’ve learned that served to make your organisation better,” Dan advises. E Call 13 684-888.

60 x Entrepreneur - 62 x Interview - 64 x Spotlight

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Shiv Khera

When? September 18 Event? Seminar Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Want to become a leader? Take a few notes from Shiv Khera.

E Call 36 048-699.

When? September 22-26 Event? Training session Venue? Bahrain Engineering Society This course covers risk management for an initial foundation.

E Call 17 810-725.

When? September 26 Event? Oil industry forum Venue? Gulf Hotel Get a low-down on the cyber security threats faced by the oil industry.

E Call 17 813-488.

When? September 29 Event? Leadership seminar Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain Discover the top five skills behind effective leadership with Dave Ulrich.

E Call 17 552-878.

When? September 29-October 2 Event? MEPEC Venue? BIECC World experts share best practices and ideas to resolve process engineering issues.

E Call +971 4427-0739.

September 2013 59

businessentrepreneur

High-end Bargains xxxxx People in the Middle East are fashion conscious and welltravelled. There’s a huge demand for luxury Western brands and, given the economic climate, shoppers everywhere are looking for bargains

Pete McGowan

Simi Kamboj Combining the alluring segments of discount and luxury retail, Pete McGowan’s new venture brings designer brands to the masses in Bahrain.

60 September 2013

Not many shoppers can resist the thrill of grabbing a bargain on luxury brands that they would not otherwise be able to afford. The financial crisis and the ensuing recession of the last decade have increased the demand for bargain designer clothing worldwide.

However, the Middle East region has been slow to cash in on the bargain-hunting instinct of shoppers, feels Pete McGowan, co-founder of The Designer Outlet.

“People in the Middle East are fashion conscious and welltravelled. There’s a huge demand for luxury Western brands and, given the economic climate, shoppers everywhere are looking for bargains. We believe the region is underserved in this sector and there’s a huge potential for growth in designer outlet retailing.”

The former British Airways pilot hung up his flying wings after a chance meeting with Dutch businessman Pieter Drent at the Capital Club. Last month, the 59-year-old launched The Designer Outlet at the new Seef Corner mall in collaboration with Pieter and an American partner, Russel Mack.

A veteran in the fashion business, Pieter has purchased excess stock and overruns from clothing manufacturers and agents for the last 18 years, supplying his network of hundreds of retailers worldwide.

“Most of our clothes, bags and shoes are from the last season or last year, but this is genuine merchandise from top Italian and American luxury brands,” adds Pete. “We’ll offer discounts ranging from 50 to 70 per cent on top labels, which compares very favourably with prices at shopping malls.”

Pete found his inspiration from Bicester, a designer shopping village in Oxfordshire, UK, that’s hugely popular not only among British shoppers but international tourists as well. Since Pete and his team do not have a binding relationship with any brand, they’re free to stock merchandise of their choice depending on local demand.

“We’re hoping to move things around every couple of weeks so that shoppers find something new at every visit. We will launch loyalty cards offering customers early access to new arrivals and a concierge service that receives orders in advance,” he says. The Designer Outlet has an Instagram page, which is refreshed periodically to reflect new arrivals, and a website is underway.

Expanding operations The team is negotiating for a larger pupose-built mall, more akin to a factory outlet, to accommodate other American and Italian brands. Pete says they will roll out the concept throughout the GCC next year. The team has received expressions of interest for partnerships in Saudi Arabia and other GCC states.

“We should be able to put up at least three stores in Saudi, since we already have customers from there. In the long-term, we plan to have at least 20 designer outlets across the GCC,” he believes.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessinterview

In Pursuit of Growth xxxxx In five years’ time we aspire to operate within all the GCC countries, whether owning and managing hotels or in the fine dining business

Garfield Jones

An aggressive expansion strategy will propel Bahrain’s home-grown fivestar hospitality services company across the region in the coming years.

62 September 2013

These are exciting days at Gulf Hotel Group (GHG) as the company presses ahead with a strategic plan for diversification and expansion in multiple business segments.

“We recognise that being based in a single market is not a great business model and we’ve changed our long-term plans with a view to diversify our business model,” says Garfield Jones, deputy CEO at GHG. “In five years’ time we aspire to operate within all the GCC countries, whether owning and managing hotels or in the fine dining business.”

The food and beverage (F&B) business will be one of the main drivers of GHG’s expansion, with the group aiming to carve out an independent division for F&B operations. This will run stand-alone fine-dining restaurants in Bahrain; in other GCC states, the group will take the franchise route to replicate its F&B concepts.

“We’re working rigorously on the expansion for our restaurants across the GCC and envisage that depending on the location, these will involve lounge-cum-restaurants with around 125 covers each,” adds Garfield. “We will also bring, in the near future, a contemporary-style Indian cuisine dining concept which will be launched at the Gulf Hotel.”

Despite being well entrenched in the local market, the 45-year-old group has been, historically, quite conservative in its growth plans. This is now changing. GHG has recently announced a five-star hotel in Dubai, to open in 2017; this will be its first overseas wholly owned property. The US$130 million hotel in the Business Bay, near Dubai Mall, will be fully financed by the group.

Garfield believes GHG’s cautious approach towards expansion has been vindicated.

“We’ve had offers from Dubai before 2008; had we invested then, we’d have taken a big hit soon afterwards,” he says.

“Our brand is so well-established that we really want to do our homework and do things right so that our image and long-term credibility isn’t impacted.”

Back in Bahrain, the Gulf Hotel property itself will undergo comprehensive refurbishment towards the end of this year. All 120 rooms in the South Wing building, as well as 97 apartments at Gulf Executive Residence, will be renovated to match the standards and decor of modern rooms in the Tower Block.

In another business segment, the hotel’s laundry facility has been expanded into a full fledged independent commercial operation that will target business opportunities from airlines, hospitals and hospitality operators and will open a number of laundry retail shops in strategic locations.

Five-star value Next April will witness the opening of Gulf Residence Amwaj; this 168-apartment hotel will offer both long-stay rentals and short-stay options. The upmarket four-star property will be GHG’s second management contract in Bahrain after The K Hotel.

“Our success with The K Hotel proves our ability to manage properties on the island and we’re in talks with many owners in Bahrain for similar management contracts,” Garfield notes. “Bahrain has too many rooms in the four-star segment, but these aren’t international quality hotels. We’d like people to recognise The K Hotel and Gulf Residence Amwaj as properties with five-star facilities available at four-star prices,” says Garfield.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

businessspotlight

A Matter of Time bnl

xxxxx Each individual image carries a strong message and conveys in a subliminal way how exposed we are to the unseen, untold future events “After we recruited a dedicated customer service team, we thought this was the right time to go out there and deliver our story. The campaign demonstrates to the public how secure their lives would be if the right choices were made at the right time to protect their future. After all, it’s only a matter of ‘when’ not ‘if’,” Robert explains.

The campaign is targeted at decision-makers in households and at work; the product portfolio caters for everyone starting from children to large organisations.

Robert Grey

This insurer’s new campaign lays bare the vulnerabilities of people and how they can secure their loved ones’ future while there’s time.

64 September 2013

The newly launched People of Life campaign is bnl’s first since the insurer revealed a new identity in 2010. A series of advertisements to capture emotions from everyday life events, believes Robert Grey, bnl general manager.

“Each individual image carries a strong message and conveys in a subliminal way how exposed we are to the unseen, untold future events. It seeks to evoke a strong emotion in the audience, exposing them to future risks and thereby urging them to take action,” says Robert.

Following the launch of its revamped website, bnl put together a bundle of high-quality corporate and individual products designed to cater for the needs of every individual, including group life and mortgage insurance, unit linked investment plans, and group and individual healthcare plans.

Positive image In a region where insurance is considered as more a burden than a tool for protection and perceived negatively by customers, much remains to be done to enhance its attractiveness.

“We need to demonstrate to our customers, both corporate and individual, that the outlay for an insurance policy is small compared to the financial ramifications of a catastrophic event such as death,” notes Robert.

“For example, what are the financial consequences on a family of the death of its main salary earner; how can the immediate loss of income be replaced? Will the government provide an income? If a family wants to set aside funds for their children’s future education, there are policies that will build up funds and provide life insurance on the salary earner.”

For bnl, life insurance for individuals is the segment that has the greatest long-term prospect for growth; planning for education is likely to be the fastest developing product in the short-term, Robert believes. Then there are pension-linked savings products to supplement government pension schemes, which will come under financial pressure as the number of retired people increases. bnl has always offered a range of products, including plans to fund education as well as pure protection-type polices to cover loans.

“We have now developed modern cost-efficient savings plans that use direct investment into funds to give better opportunities for growth, but still provide the security of life insurance,” adds Robert.

E Call 17 587-333 or visit www.bnl4life.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Domain Bahrain Hotel Reception A night of Spanish tapas and sangria was offered to special guests at The Domain Bahrain Hotel in the Diplomatic Area.

The event was held at the hotel’s newly opened Basque Lounge

Majed, Oriadna, Marise, Patrick, Omaina & Puja

Oriadna, Mohammed, Rogier & Marise

AK, Tanya & Manos

Nomatter, Manos, Raghu & Oriadna

Murli & Moe

Mövenpick Hotel Iftar Buffet The Mövenpick Hotel hosted an Iftar buffet for a number of guests during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The Iftar was held at the Hotel's Silk's Restaurant

Leslie, Layla, Nizar & Sumaya

Nizar, Sumaya & Ann

Anne, Andrea, Alex & George

Charles Russell Staff Iftar Charles Russell hosted a staff Iftar during the Holy Month at Bushra, Bushido Restaurant in the Seef Area

Faten & Reem

Riaan, Nabil, Nick Pearce, Patrick Gearon & Sonja Flynn

Fadia & Lamees

Hussain, Layth & Bashar

Hannah, Reem & Fayyaz

Jeep Grand Cherokee Launch Ahmed Zayani and Sons held a launch ceremony for the all-new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the Jeep Showroom in Zinj last month

66 September 2013

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Eldho, Mayank, Riyadh Al Zayani, Luay Abu-Kaff & Godwin D'Cruz

Ali & Domitille

In the last issue of BTM, inadvertently, Riyadh Al Zayani's name was typed as Rashid Al Zayani. We apologise for the oversight and any inconvenience it may have caused

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain City Centre- Tel: 1668 6213 and Seef Mall- Tel:1668 6223

Autumn Winter 2013

reportfashion

Tory Burch

The trends of the season mix the ladylike look of the past with the young spirit of today. The designers’ inspirations create pieces that can be worn to create all kinds of styles.

Monochromatic colours and easy-to-wear prints cover the new collections. Most brands give special attention to unusual cuts and striking details.

Dark shades are typical of autumn; navy blue and black are the main hues used on the runways. Rock and roll, old romance, country style and masculine influences are some of the trends you will spot the next time you go shopping.

Different materials, such as animal prints and textures, fur and leather, translate the spirit of winter days.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 69

reportfashion RALPH LAUREN

Modern and Timeless

This fashion house offers a fresh collection for the new season, with a men’s range that is sure to match the cooler breezes of autumn and winter.

The Ralph Lauren Autumn/Winter 2013 collection for men offers key pieces suiting all tastes and styles. The brand puts together contemporary outfits for all occasions, creating a variety of new looks under separate labels.

Purple label This season, a selection of refined clothing in monochromatic charcoal, nautical-inspired navy and authentic tartans is presented. Three-piece suits, double-breasted silhouettes with satin lapels and fine, tailored overcoats bring elegance.

Impeccable formalwear is created with traditional and sophisticated materials, such as plush cashmere and wool. The Harris tweeds come in brown, camel and olive, which are best paired with ancient madder paisley ties.

For sportswear, the greys are a hot pick. Choose any shade from pale slate to dark charcoal. The classics line has been updated with trim silhouettes and innovative fabric treatments, and the outwear collection showcases modern interpretations of traditional naval and motorsport jackets.

70 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Black label In this range, the focus is on clean minimalist cuts in dark charcoal and black, infused with subtle usages of colour.

Details in leather and shearling are eye-catching.

Slim-fitting three-piece and double-breasted pieces with peak and notch lapels are paired with solid ties in hues of purple, green and brown. Turtleneck sweaters, knit cardigans and trousers made of silken pinwale corduroy reflect the functionality that is essential in modern times.

The sportswear showcases the label’s classics with slightly shorter and slimmer silhouettes. Chunky knit cardigans are the highlight pieces of the range, which can be teamed with trimfitted trousers and sleek, edgy outwear. The design blends urban sophistication with practical and timeless pieces.

Polo and RLX Polo Ralph Lauren presents a season of heritage paired with youthful American rough wear. You can find versatile, tailored pieces and a range of sportswear that features tweeds and nylon crafted by RLX and mixed with Polo.

Traditional silhouettes with clean lines are showcased in the tailored clothing. Suits are made from selected wool in solid or subtly patterned grey, dark charcoal and rich navy; they can be paired with blue and white shirts.

Polo celebrates timeless country dressing with a blend of refined weekend wear and rugged outdoor pieces. Bright oranges, greens and purples are set against autumnal hues like olive, brown and navy. The layered look can be conquered with wool sweaters, intarsia-patterned pieces and parkas.

Meanwhile the Polo and RLX label offers a fresh mix of casual sportswear. Faded flannel and chambray work shirts are layered beneath lightweight down jackets and vests in vivid hues of orange, blue and green. The collection delivers comfort, warmth and, of course, style.

E Call 17 112-720 (Bahrain City Centre).

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 71

reportfashion

MASSIMO DUTTI

The Urbane Woman

A cosmopolitan flair seeps into the newest line for women by a renowned fashion brand. Discover your style of the season.

72 September 2013

Massimo Dutti’s autumn/winter collection for women is inspired by multicultural societies. You can spot the four fashion capitals in the new line from the Spanish brand. A strong sartorial approach is evident in the textured fabrics that feature a rich combination of colours and silhouettes.

The chic finesse of Paris appears in the blends of light blue, navy, ecru and grey. The bohemian style delivers a very feminine collection with retro and romantic pieces combined with denim and folk styles, giving it a modern edge.

The Italian touch inspired by the streets of Milan is seen in the use of the khaki colour and in printed dresses. These work best with sweaters and washed trousers.

Manhattan, the city that never sleeps, is the residence of artists from around the world. Grey and camel take the lead as the predominant colours in this inspirational line. Silk and lace make an appearance in elegant garments.

Elements of chilly London and Chelsea’s bohemian traits add up to create an exciting range with clean and flattering cuts. Navy, camel and caramel are the colours used in double-breasted coats, tricot plaits and collarless jackets. Shirts, dresses, trousers and blazers are covered in reds and check prints.

E Call 17 172-325 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 583-230 (Seef Mall).

www.bahrainthismonth.com

IT’S TIME FOR A PROUD OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Starting from

BD 22,495

INFINITI M56 V8 ENGINE 402HP

Infiniti M The best opportunity to experience an ownership without parallel is here. Now starting from BD 22,495, the Infiniti M offers an unrivalled combination of indulgent luxury, intuitive technologies and inspired performance. Drive in the lap of luxury with a host of premium features such as Blind Spot Warning and Intervention, Intelligent Cruise Control, 7-Speed Auto with Manual Shift Mode, BOSE Premium Sound System, Infiniti Advanced Airbag System and Climate Controlled Seats.

Visit the Infiniti showroom today for a test drive.

Infiniti.Bahrain Infiniti.Bahrain

Sitra, Tel: 17 732732 www.infiniti-bahrain.com

reportfashion MASSIMO DUTTI

Around Paris

A trip to the French capital has inspired the autumn/ winter line of a Spanish fashion house targeting men.

Parisian winters and autumnal colours act as muses for Massimo Dutti’s newest range for men, mirroring its sophisticated urban style. The stunning neighbourhoods with enchanting streets and squares inspired the designers to create a masculine line that offers a dandy and bohemian feel.

Some pieces in the collection celebrate opulence and classic French traits, using fine flannel, pinstriped wool and subtle checks. These are combined with elegant ties and genuine leather accessories, which are highlights of the season.

The casual man can find his style in the range of blues mixed with browns. A touch of bright hues are added to raw colours and greys. The eclectic side of the capital city delivers garments that boast an array of colours, materials and textures.

Mustard yellows, cocoa and cool blue tones paint sweaters, knitted jackets, shirts and trousers.

The sophisticated and traditional influence results in a selection of purples, fuchsia and burgundy, which is combined with minks, greys and browns in structured cuts.

Lush materials and fabrics are plentiful in the autumn/winter collection. Suits, coats, jackets and sportswear are made available in 100 per cent wool, cashmere and even a mixture of both.

E Call 17 172-325 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 583-230 (Seef Mall).

74 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

reportfashion

Mango

Rock and Roll Ladies, paint your wardrobe in dark shades this season to create the perfect hard rock look. It’s about feeling comfortable while looking powerful.

The main muse for Mango’s new collection is the grunge style of the ‘90s. The hot trend reveals the rock and roll and punk vibe of the brand while still using straight cuts.

The coats, vests, jackets, denims, plaids, pinstripes and leather miniskirts are perfect to put you in the autumn and winter mode. Biker boots with studs and metallic accessories are the best match to oversized parkas, masculine jackets, elegant dresses and well-fitted suits.

Handbags in traditional plaid prints and different materials are the must-haves from this line to be added to your updated wardrobe. The colour palette features red, grey and black. Pick your favourite pieces to mix and match and create your own bold and edgy style.

If you are looking for versatility and timeless attire, the brand also showcases chic staples ideal for formal occasions or everyday wear. Feminine dresses and skirts, some of the brand’s trademarks, are also available to create a classy look.

E Call 17 179-718 (Bahrain City Centre) or 17 581-883 (Seef Mall).

76 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

reportfashion NINE WEST

Style Essentials Find the perfect pair of shoes to match the season’s wardrobe at this well-liked outlet. Their eye-catching accessories are the key to creating an outstanding look.

78 September 2013

The newest collection showcased at Nine West reflects the season’s trends, from pieces that are absolutely ladylike to those that are urban chic. Neutral beiges and soft corals are paired with black and navy to create the perfect summer-toautumn transition.

Luxe textures and suedes accentuate the feminine, edgy style, while prints and baroque traits add a contemporary look to the line. The sleek, mysterious and sophisticated style is captured with structured dark pieces. Black peep-toes

featuring gold or leopard stamps are a highlight this season, followed by navy pumps.

Nine West’s handbags are painted in autumnal hues moving progressively to solid black. Shades of brown and nude in a croco texture ease the dreary winter mood.

Choose any of the brand’s accessories, such as scarves, belts, sunglasses or hats, for the finishing touch to your brand-new outfit.

E Call 16 686-207(Bahrain City Centre), 16 686-220 (Seef Mall) or 16 686-228 (Bahrain Mall).

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE NEW MITSUBISHI ASX Take on the urban jungle

Get yours for just

BD 113

/month

Stylish, illuminated dash board

Panoramic sunroof with LED illumination

Terms and conditions apply.

Imagine all the benefits of a traditional SUV combined with the ease of driving and fuel efficiency of a smaller car.

It’s all here in the stunning ASX. Get yours now with a Diamond Lifetime Warranty, exclusively from Zayani Motors.

VISIT US FOR A TEST DRIVE TODAY. Ma'ameer 17 703 703

Arad 17 465 533

www.zmotors.com

Mitsubishi.Bahrain

MitsubishiBah

Mitsubishi_bah

Diamond Lifetime Warranty

downtimeintro

The Doctor Will See You Now paden vaughan There was a lot of excitement when it was revealed that Peter Capaldi will be the next doctor in the BBC series Doctor Who. But what are the previous doctors doing now?

It is one of the most successful BBC series to date, the cause of many generations of children’s nightmares and the recipient of numerous awards and accolades. Now in what is technically the show’s 33rd series, it has been revealed that the star of the BBC comedy series The Thick of It will play the twelfth Time Lord.

This begs the question, what are those who previously filled the doctor’s shoes doing today?

McCoy was the seventh of the Time Lords. He held this role up until the series was cancelled in 1989, but then went on to make an appearance in the 1996 movie.

After his stint as the Doctor, McCoy did a variety of television and theatre work, and then was cast as Radagast the Brown in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

Christopher Eccleston (Doctor in 2005) Christopher Eccleston was the first ‘new’ Doctor in the rebooted series of the show. He was only present for just one series before being regenerated in the season-ending finale.

Having done a lot of theatrical work prior to Doctor Who, Eccleston went back to his roots, and is set to play Malekith in the upcoming superhero movie Thor: The Dark World.

Tom Baker (Doctor from 1974-1981) Tom Baker took on the role of the Doctor in series 12 and is among the most famous incarnations of the Time Lord. His final appearance was in the charity special Dimensions in Time.

After leaving Dalek fighting and the TARDIS behind, Baker went on to portray. Sherlock Holmes in the BBC1 mini-series Hound of the Baskervilles in 1982, and did the voiceover for the BBC sketch show Little Britain in 2001.

With his unmistakably bo oming voice, he is well equipped and much sought after in the voiceover field.

David Tennant (Doctor from 2005-2010) The tenth and arguably one of the most popular of them all, David Tennant put on the Doctor’s shoes in the series 7 finale and went on to keep the role until the 2010 special. He portrayed Casanova in the BBC mini-series of the same name, and appeared in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

After Doctor Who, Tennant continued working with film and television, with notable roles in the 2012 remake of Fright Night and Pirates: An Adventure with Scientists.

Sylvester McCoy (Doctor from 1987-1989 and 1996 movie) Frequently held with high esteem by die-hard fans, Sylvester

So the only question that remains is how long will Capaldi battle the Daleks and Cybermen before he gets exterminated?

Also this month

82 Gadgets x 86 Music x 88 Computer games x 89 Websites x 90 Apps x 91 Movies x 92 Books

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Beautiful design The LG G2 shifts the paradigm in smartphone design by placing all the buttons on the rear of the device, making this the first of its kind to be completely devoid of buttons on the sides.

Thin and light Powered by fourth generation Intel Core processors, Acer’s new notebook line-up includes the Aspire V3 entertainment laptop, an updated V5 Series of notebooks and the powerful V7 Ultrabook.

September 2013 81

downtimegadgets

The Savvy Student This month’s gadgets are ideal for students who want to remain tech-savvy while they study, or pretend to do so!

Optimum protection

There’s nothing worse than getting a crack on your iPhone, but with the Tech21 Impact Shield, the damage is minimised. This is the toughest screen protector on the market. The three layers of shielding comprise one to disperse blows, another which has material used in bullet-proof glass, and a soft base to absorb energy. Altogether they reduce impact force by 80 per cent!

Take a picture

The latest offering from Samsung, the Galaxy NX, runs on Android and features 4G and a 20.3 megapixel lens. It is geared towards easy sharing with the use of Bluetooth, combining Samsung’s phone and camera technology to create a remarkable device.

I can see clearly now

The first-ever programmable flashlight, the HexBright Flex connects to a USB port and can be controlled and programmed with open-source codes, which allow you to do stuff like turn the light on or off, depending on the device’s orientation.

Lock and load

Keys are no longer needed with the Kwikset Kevo lock, which allows users to pair the batterypowered lock with the UniKey app on a smartphone via Bluetooth. It opens the lock with a touch when the phone is present.

82 September 2013

Touch and go

The Toshiba Kirabook laptop features a very resistant touchscreen; you can press it without having to stabilise the device whilst utilising the touchscreen!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Avoid the noise

The first in-ear headphones from Bose, the QuietComfort 20, use dual mics in each lug to detect and cancel outside noise, allowing for optimum listening!

Sounds beautiful

From Bayan comes the brilliant Audio Soundbook. The ingenious Bluetooth speaker works as a radio and a speakerphone as well. The device offers up to 10 hours of playback!

A towel order

The EnduraCool towel is one with a difference and is perfect for extremely hot weather. Once it’s soaked and wrung out, the special hollow fibres allow air to flow through, cooling any remaining water droplets to 30 degrees below body temperature.

Soda-licious!

Put a sock in it

With the Olympus socks from Keen, you’re guaranteed socks that last for life! The toes are reinforced with Dyneema, which is 15 times stronger than the steel used in cut-resistant gloves.

This is a lifesaver for the thirsty.

The SPRiZZi carbonation machine allows users to make soda quickly. You simply pop a flavour pod into the machine and carbon dioxide from a replaceable capsule mixes with chilled water, giving you instant soda!

All gadgets are available online.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 83

downtimegadgets

Entertainment Gizmos If you’re after some new gadgets, Lulu Hypermarket is where you should be.

Expect to find the most competitive offers on the latest products.

Sony Xperia Z Ultra The first Android smartphone with a 6.4-inch full HD display takes you beyond your wildest dreams. This on-the-go viewing experience maximises every shot.

Samsung Galaxy Tab 3

Slimmer and narrower, the new Galaxy Tab 3 features a thinner bezel which ensures you have more screen to operate to your advantage.

Sony Xperia ZR

Are you constantly on the lookout for new adventures?

Then say hello to Xperia ZR from Sony, the only waterproof phone that can film HD under water.

HP All-in-One Desktop PC

Sleek design with innovative features make this desktop a great addition to the home or office.

Equipped with essential facilities for everyday computing, HP is easy to maintain, comes complete with wireless connectivity and boasts ample media storage.

84 September 2013

LG Mobile Printer

Get true portability with the LG Mobile Printer for pocket PCs. Whether you use it for work or play, the cutting-edge device gives you crystal-clear images.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sony 3D LED TV

With a slim design and vivid lifelike picture quality, this Sony product offers a superior movie-watching experience like no other.

Samsung 40-inch 3D LED TV

You can now experience high-quality and three-dimensional display in the comfort of your own home. .

LG 42-inch Smart 3D LED TV Watch your favourite movies and characters come to life in your own living room with the LG Smart 3D TV.

Lulu Hypermarkets can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 85

downtimemusic

Going Underground So many great bands are absent from the mainstream. So here are some of the best underground releases of the month.

Whirr Around

ON BUM M ALTHE

OF

RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? San Francisco sextet

TH

Whirr is, for me, genuinely one of the most exciting bands of recent years. They play in the style of early ‘90s shoegaze bands such as My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive. Their previous LP, Pipe Dreams, is an astounding record filled with memorable melodic hooks, but still conjuring up a melancholic and dreamy atmosphere. The newest EP seems a slight departure from Pipe Dreams in favour of something subtly different.

WORTH A LISTEN?

In comparison to their previous release, Around seems to focus on inducing a slower emotional response with songs being longer and more suggestive in their melodies. While this record may be lacking the tightness and catchiness of Pipe Dreams, the texturing is sublime, creating the classic shoegaze ‘wall of sound’. The first track Drain starts sombrely and with an air of subtlety, something that Whirr is very good at. Kristina Esfandiari’s haunting vocals are barely a whisper on the record, acting as more of an instrument in their own right, whilst guitarist Nick Basset, who previously played in the fantastic Deafheaven, creates a fuzzy and distorted surge.

Verdict: Around is a fantastic EP, and while it may not be too enticing for new listeners at first, it shows the maturity of song writing that Whirr is capable of.

TOP TRACKS: Drain and Swoon.

Gnarwolves

Funemployed EP Gnarwolves are one of the most enjoyable bands on the punk scene. Their new record inclines towards skate punk with the themes of partying still present.

Once again, the Brighton threepiece delivers the goods!

Funemployed is a record that illustrates individual influences that each of the three members has brought to the table and blended perfectly to create something catchy, meaningful, dark and fast. The greatest thing about Gnarwolves is that they know exactly how to write songs.

86 September 2013

Lemuria

The Distance Is So Big Buffalo trio, Lemuria, has released a new record which is wonderfully melodic, often heavy and with technical guitars. The group’s energy resonates as a more than tremendous addition to their discography.

Pity Sex

Feast of Love This is a wonderfully mellow yet emotional release. It combs old lo-fi influences and shoegaze hints to create something that is both beautiful, albeit subtle. The quartet is always going to be held back by the weight of comparisons.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

downtimecomputergames

In the Palm of Your Hand This month, hand-held games are all the rage. We take a look at some of the top names on the market.

TH GA E M M E ON TH

Stealth Inc: A Clone In The Dark

OF

An interesting and endearing new game, Stealth Inc: A Clone In The Dark, is enjoyable, albeit sometimes irritating. It’s not too interesting in terms of visuals, but what it lacks in this department it makes up for in fun gameplay. But we hope you’re not keen on storylines!

Family Go-Kart Racing 3D

Dragon’s Crown (PS Vita) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

There are not many beat-em-up games that can really make an impact, but there are some that can be fantastic. One such example is the fantastic Injustice: Gods Among Us, which offers superb gameplay and even a great story. Dragon’s Crown is another fighting game that really does cut the mustard. The premise is simple. Choose a character, and then beat up any enemies that get in your way! With a massive variety of medieval archetypes to choose from, it’s enough to keep you interested for a good while.

For what is essentially a clone of the Mario Kart series, Family Go-Kart Racing 3D still manages to be an enjoyable game. It looks and plays well, but a noticeable lack of multiplayer racing lets this game down. The soul of a kart racer is in its courses; they lack variety.

GRAPHICS: The graphics may be simple but have a design that is perfectly

suited to this type of game that they reflect the old school style of classic beat-em-up games such as Street Fighter with a slight cartoon-like edge. That being said, it still looks and feels great, and brings back life to a genre of games that went stale a long time ago. This game proves that beat-em-ups still have a lot of fight in them.

GAMEPLAY: It runs as smoothly as it looks; crisp and effective, allowing for

optimum satisfaction with catastrophic combo moves and reactions from enemies that are sure to make you feel great about yourself! The game also treats players to extraordinary amounts of loot and side quests available during most of the game, creating an experience that really goes beyond the realms of most games of this genre.

You can revisit levels as many times as you like.

VERDICT: Simple, fun and with endless playability Dragon’s Crown is one of the most enjoyable handheld releases of recent months!

88 September 2013

PixelJunk Monsters: Ultimate HD The game is given new life on the PS Vita. An awesome tower defence game, it looks great and plays even better! With more than 70 levels, this offers hours of entertainment.

They are serious about the ‘ultimate’ HD bit. There are a few twists.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

websites

E TH SITON EB M W THE

OF

Theswizzle.com RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

This is an issue I’m sure a lot of us can relate to.

Receiving copious amounts of unwanted commercial mail can be very irritating but, with Swizzle you can efficiently and easily clean up your mailbox, saving space for the emails that really matter. The site scans your mail for automated emails and clears them up!

THE GOOD: With this cool little site, you can save heaps of time and get rid of all those unwanted emails with a few simple steps. Simply enter your email address on the site’s toolbar and Swizzle scans through your mail and brings up and deletes all your unwanted mail. It even allows you to unsubscribe from those emails. It really is that easy.

And this site caters for mail that you maybe do want to see, but haven’t got time to check. It is stored in a special file and can be dealt with later.

THE BAD:

Of course, an obvious problem is that it’s quite daunting putting your email into an unfamiliar site. And Swizzle also lets you add messages from additional subscribers, which is probably their way of making money from the said subscribers. It isn’t recommended for work accounts, doesn’t support a lot of email services, and lacks any significant customisation options.

VERDICT: This is a great new way to help you deal with a lot o mail.

Nextdoor.com Social media is great for connecting with friends across the globe, but what about the people right round the corner from you? Nextdoor allows you to connect with local people in your area and lets you share useful stuff with them.

GOG.com GOG, which stands for ‘good old games’, was originally a way of buying classic computer games tweaked to work on modern systems.

Now the site allows you to access newer games, especially indie ones that aren’t available elsewhere!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 89

downtimeapps

The Price Is Right This month, we look at the apps which offer the best value for money [DASH] or no money at all!

T

TH PS ON APHE M

OF

Jabra Sound (iOS)

Duolingo (Android, IOS)

This app, although designed to work with Jabra’s recent headphones, will enhance the quality of your music playing no matter what headphones you have! And best of all, it’s totally free! With this exclusive sound app, Dolby Digital Plus adds that extra depth and dimensions to your music, extending bass performance and enhancing high frequencies so your music retains its clarity. It automatically identifies your music files, so it’s easy to get started. Use the app to create and browse through playlists, share music on Facebook or Twitter and adjust the graphic equaliser so you can play your tracks as you want to hear them.

RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Duolingo really is one of the most interesting and useful apps available on the market. This nifty little app allows you to learn a new language easily and efficiently from the comfort of your device. It features a range of different languages and an easy-to-use interface that new users will appreciate.

THE GOOD: The app has too many great features to list. One of the most obvious

qualities is its incredible ergonomic and colourful interface, which is immediately more appealing than most other language apps on the market. Languages currently available are Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese and English.

Believe it or not this app is available for free! It’s rare for most language learning kits to be cheap. So to have this massive range of languages available for nothing is instantly attractive.

It’s hard to find fault with this app. If I really wanted to pick holes, I guess it would be useful if more languages were on offer rather than just the ‘conventional’ ones.

However it’s highly likely that updates will be released in the near future, allowing for unlimited language learning! The only other grievance is the need for the account to access Facebook in order to work, which may be frustrating.

THE BAD:

VERDICT: This is a great way to learn a new language, and for free! It’s hard to find much fault with the app.

90 September 2013

EasilyDo (Android) EasilyDo gets you the right information and gets things done. It works proactively to check traffic before your commute, warns you of bad weather, organises contacts, tracks packages and reminds you of birthdays. The information appears just when you need it. There’s no need to dig through multiple apps!

Having EasilyDo is like having a mini personal assistant. It automates everyday tasks, making your life easier. The app is free and worthwhile.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TH

OF

TH E

ON

M OV M IE

movies

The World’s End RATING: DIRECTED BY: Edgar Wright STARRING: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Martin Freeman, Eddie Marsan, Paddy Considine, Rosamund Pike

THE PLOT:

After Gary King (Pegg) reunites with his four best friends from school, he plans for them to return to their hometown of Newton Haven in order to complete a pub crawl they never finished 20 years ago. But upon arriving at the small town, they unwittingly end up becoming mankind’s only hope for survival from an extraterrestrial threat.

WORTH WATCHING? It is quite brilliant to see the trio of

Pegg, Frost and Wright reunited in the final of The Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, and The World’s End is packed full of humour and is thoroughly entertaining! There are nods to Wright’s previous releases in the trilogy and the leading characters perform excellently.

VERDICT: It may not be the best in the trilogy, but it’s a fitting end and certainly very enjoyable!

Alpha Papa Everyone’s favourite Norwich Radio DJ is back and this time he’s chatting for his life. Coogan is fantastic as always as Partridge. The movie manages to avoid all that is wrong with most bigscreen comedies. It is hardly the most ambitious piece of film-making. Yet, in its own peculiar way, the film deals with topical and poignant issues.

The Conjuring A brilliantly terrifying horror with genuine scares and superb directing, The Conjuring stands tall amongst the usual crop of mediocre horrors. If this really is director James Wan’s final foray into horror, then it’s a great way to go! Watch this and you’ll think twice about playing hide and seek.

And you’ll never, ever use a blindfold.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 91

downtimebooks

Great Books!

Some things are worth saving: pleasant memories, priceless photographs, personal diaries, fine art and great books.

Several years ago I decided to save the choices of great books made by avid readers and leading scholars. Introducing the new website I wrote: “Anyone who reads these 100 books will have acquired as much education as many universities could provide.”

Boasting further I added, “From the ancient classics to the masterpieces of the 20th century, the ‘Great Books’ listed here are all the introduction you’ll ever need to the ideas, stories and discoveries that have shaped modern civilisation.”

It was a bit of an overstatement, but it accurately reflected what I believed at the time. I had read most of the books and — as an English teacher — had taught many of them.

Even today I believe that any excess in my original assessment could be easily corrected and updated by adding a few of your favourite books not on the list. I would have difficulty replacing any of the choices by professors and readers whose scholarship I admire, but I have no hesitation about adding writers like the great Irish poet WB Yeats, who also happens to be my favourite author.

The ‘100 Great Books’ were first chosen by the Committee on College Reading, in the United States, in 1947. Since then, the list has been revised and updated many times in the book Good Reading, edited by Sherwood Weber.

Over the years the list of books was revised many times, with changes based on the committee’s decisions as to which books were more important than others. This was expected, although I can only make an educated guess about why the Committee on College Reading stopped updating the list.

After writing briefs on about 2,000 books and then choosing the 100 they thought the most important, the committee organised their selection into five categories; Ancient Times, Middle Ages and Renaissance, the 17th and 18th centuries, the 19th century and the 20th century I took the list of 100 books included in the 2003 edition of Good Reading and added my own updates believing that the list was worth preserving, even though some readers may disagree with some of the choices.

Good reading!

The list of 100 Great Books selected by Paul can be found online at: www.bahrainthismonth.com/100-great-books

92 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain Shopping Festival 2013 The Bahrain Shopping Festival 2013 was held one week prior to Eid Al Fitr, giving people a chance to indulge themselves and their loved ones with gifts and enjoy the best deals on top brands. The festival was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre

Sanjana, Sandhya & Dushyant

Antony & Mohammed

Masuradeen, Mohammed & Meeran

Jood, Talia, Hassan & Maya

Ahmed & Hassan

Kunal, Hishang, Faisal, Subeesh & Rajesh

Mohammed & Ali

Lauryn, Linda & Aliphonza

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Mudassarikram, Mohammed & Babar

Layla

September 2013 93

bystanderthismonth

Aidil Fitri Reception HE Ahmed Shahizan Abd Samad, Malaysian Ambassador & Datin Nor Hayati hosted a Aidil Fitri reception at their residence in Jasra. The event was attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, members of the Malaysian community & Embassy staff

HE Shigeki Sumi, Tomoko Sumi, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar, Nor Hayati & HE Ahmed Shahizan

Akmal, Nor, HE Ahmed Shahizan, Ahmed Haji Jumat, Rosita, Abdulmuiz & Nur

Sunil, Doris, Lea, Nurul & Shooja

94 September 2013

Omruthai, Wararaj & Keith

Omruthai & Nurul

Ahmed & Ameera

Nur, Abdulmuiz & Akmal

Ahmed & Seef

Suria & Istal

Panee & Pichaman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al A'ali Mall Gergaoun The Al A'ali Mall organised a Gergaoun evening for children which showcased the sing along story telling from the recently released children's book 'Gergaoun'

Dr Badria, Layal & Tahira

Dana, Suad, Dana & Archana

Alanood & Muneera

Aalia, Haya & Laali

Aysha & Yasmin

Enas, Ala & Noof

Madhawi & Razan

Sara & Amood

Talia

Abdulrahman & Qusay

Noora & Naomi

Fadia & Liana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 95

Al A'ali Mall Gergaoun The Al A'ali Mall organised a Gergaoun evening for children which showcased the sing along story telling from the recently released children's book 'Gergaoun'

Dr Badria, Layal & Tahira

Dana, Suad, Dana & Archana

Alanood & Muneera

Aalia, Haya & Laali

Aysha & Yasmin

Enas, Ala & Noof

Madhawi & Razan

Sara & Amood

Talia

Abdulrahman & Qusay

Noora & Naomi

Fadia & Liana

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 95

bystanderthismonth

Japanese Ambassador Reception HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador hosted a reception combined with a press conference to discuss the visit of the HE Shinzo Abe, Japanese Prime Minister to Bahrain. The event was held at the Ambassador's residence in Saar

Hussain, Ashida, Ebrahim, Bob & Kishore

HE Shigeki Sumi with guests at the event

Nasser Al Arayedh & Jassim Al Zayani

HE Shigeki Sumi with The Bahrain-Japan Business Friendship Society members & guests

96 September 2013

Larry & Nancy

Faisal

Ali & Jassim

Yusuke & Toshihiko

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Hassan Bokhammas Majlis Hassan Bokhammas played host to a number of friends and well-wishers at his Majlis in Juffair during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Hassan Bokhammas & Mohammed Al-Shroogi

Nawaf & Mahmeed

Hassan Bokhammas & HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani

Dr Nader Al Bustaki, Yaqoob & Ismail

Dr Malalla Al Hamadi

Fahad & Ahmed with Ali Bokhammas

Vaheed Mannai

Dr Malalla, Hassan Bokhammas & Hameed Rahman

Abdulla

Ahmed Al Qaed

Rabeea Nayem

BD

1.000

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 97

bystanderthismonth

Hassan Bokhammas Majlis Hassan Bokhammas played host to a number of friends and wellwishers at his Majlis in Juffair during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Hassan Bokhammas & Mohammed Al-Shroogi

Dr Nader Al Bustaki, Yaqoob & Ismail

Nawaf & Mahmeed

98 September 2013

Abdulla

Hassan Bokhammas & HE Khalifa Al Dhahrani

Fahad & Ahmed with Ali Bokhammas

Dr Malalla, Hassan Bokhammas & Hameed Rahman

Ahmed Al Qaed

Dr Malalla Al Hamadi

Rabeea Nayem

Vaheed Mannai

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystanderthismonth

Faisal Jawad Majlis Faisal Jawad played host to a number of friends, well-wishers and family at his majlis in Adliya during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Rear Admiral Scott, Faisal Jawad & Timothy Pounds

Faisal & Mahmood Daylami

Abdulla Fakhro, Kareem Jawad, Ali Najeeb & Ahmed Fakhro

Dr Abdul Hassan & Khadem

Guests at the majlis

Salman, Abbas & Ali

Hussain Tadayon & Abbas

Ali Alwazzan & Ismail Tarradah

Dr Khozai

Abbas Hussainw

A New Generation of Hotel A NewInnGeneration of Hotel Holiday Express Bahrain

P.O. Box 11785 Manama Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 17313030 Fax: +973 17001861 Email:Box info@hiexbahrain.com P.O. 11785 Manama Kingdom of Bahrain Website: Tel: +973www.hiexbahrain.com 17313030 Fax: +973 17001861 Email: info@hiexbahrain.com Website: www.hiexbahrain.com

Holiday Inn Express Bahrain

98 September 2013

STAY YOU. ™

STAY YOU. ™

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ebrahim Zainal Majlis Ebrahim Zainal played host to a number of friends and well-wishers at his majlis in Juffair during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Jassim with Ebrahim Zainal

Sadiq & Khalil

Abdulrahman

Ali & Abdulrada

Mohammed & Majeed

Tariq & Khalid

Tariq & Sami

Basil & Hisham

Dr Abdulla & Rashad

Yousif & Ahmed

Fawaz & Mohammed

Abu Adel & Yousif

‘An Outstanding School’ - Bahrain QAA - 2012

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 99

bystanderthismonth

Jalal Family Majlis The Jalal family played host to a number of friends and well-wishers that visited the family at their majlis in Adliya, during Ramadan

Sami Jalal & Hamad Alwazzan

Hasan Haider, Sami Jalal & Ahmed Jalal

Sami & Ahmed Jalal

Anwar Abdulrahman, Jalal M. Jalal, HE Dr Sadiq Al Shehabi, Faisal Alhamer & Mohammed Salahuddin

Qays Zu'bi, Sami Jalal & Ahmed Jalal

100 September 2013

Ahmed Salahuddin, Fawaz Al Jowder & Nabeel Saadie

Jalal M. Jalal

Jalal M. Jalal & HE Dr Sadiq Al Shehabi, Health Minister

Jubran Abdulrahman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ajoor Family Majlis In keeping with the spirit of Ramadan a number of diplomats, friends and well wishers visited the Ajoor Majlis in Janabiya, during the Holy Month

Abdulla Bahlool, Mohammed, Abdulhakim Bukamal, Nabeel Ajoor & HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador

Fuad Kanoo & Nabeel Ajoor

Isa Kooheji, Sadiq Dawani, Abdul Hameed Kooheji & HE HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador

HE Shigeki Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, HE Alberto Vecchi, Italian Ambassador, Ahmed Ajoor & Salah Al Tattan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Ahmed Almeer, Nasser Alarayedh & Mohammed Sabbag

Yu Joohna, Ali Yateem, Nabeel Ajoor & Sharif

HE Christian Testot, French Ambassador, Nabeel Ajoor, Shaikh Rashid bin Isa Al Khalifa & Ayad Al Qusaibi

September 2013 101

bystanderthismonth

Al Arayedh Majlis Nasser Al Arayedh played host to a number of dignataries, diplomats and well wishers during the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Al Arayedh Majlis in Segaiya

Nasser Al Arayedh, Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa & Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa

Jassim Al Zayani, HE Mohammed Siraj, Jordanian Ambassador & Dr Essam Fakhro

Shaikh Sultan Al Khalifa, Nasser Al Arayedh & Dr Khalid bin Abdulrahman Al Ohaly

102 September 2013

HE Iain Lindsay, British Ambassador, Nasser Al Arayedh, HE Chilman Arisman, Indonesian Ambassador & Ebrahim Zainal

Hamid Al Zayani, Khalid Al Zayani & Nasser Al Arayedh

Timothy Pounds & HE Ali Saleh Al Saleh

Khalid Almoayed & Hassan Jarrar

HE Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Moroccan Ambassador & HE Sahid Glang, Philippines Ambassador

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al Bassam Majlis The Al Bassam family played host to a number of friends and well wishers from Al Khobar as well as from Bahrain at the family's majlis in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia

Nameer Al Sameer Al Bassam, Khalid Al Suleiman Al Bassam, Ahmed Abdulla Al Bassam & Ali Abdulrahman Al Bassam

Fuad Taqi, Abdul Mohsin Mohammed Sheel, Abdul Lateef Mohammed Farj & Abdulla Abdulaziz Zamil

The Al Bassam family with friends

Ahmed Abdulrahman Al Bassam, Abdulaziz Ibrahim Al Barak & Abdulaziz Abdul Hameed Al Bassam

Salah Buzayed, Nabeel Ajoor & Bassam Al Suleiman Al Bassam

Abdulrahman Mohammed Al Bassam

Abdulla Abdulrahman Al Bassam, Suleiman Al Khalid Al Bassam & Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Bassam

Whatever your need, Genprise can provide the perfect solution at a budget that matches.

Opening hours - Saturday to Thursday, 0900-1300 & 1530-1930

Proud dealers for

Building 45, Road 352, Block 326, Manama (opposite Don Vito's cafe in Adliya) Tel: +973 17311442, Fax: +973 17311019/17910761, Email: info@genpriseco.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 103

bystanderthismonth

Golden Peacock Restaurant Launch The Mirador Hotel held a lunch to mark the opening of its new Asian restaurant the Golden Peacock in conjunction with Oman Air. The event was attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, HE Dr Sulaiman Bin Saud Al Jabri, Omani Ambassador, HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador, Mirador Hotel management, Oman Air officials and guests

Saji Kumar, Candida, Charles Le Joy, Eric Almeida, Maria Lazarus, Shankar Bharadwaj, Managing Director, Mirador Hotel, HE Dr Sulaiman Bin Saud Al Jabri, Pawan Josh, Owner and Managing Partner, Mirador Hotel, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, HE Vichai Varasirikul & Dixon Baby

Kevin, Aarti Pawan, Shankar & HE Dr Mohan Kumar

Eric, Maria & Charles

Arturo, Lopez & Satyawan

Ashmukh & Jitendra

104 September 2013

Juma & HE Vichai Varasirikul

Ronak

Kiran

HE Dr Sulaiman Bin Saud Al Jabri & Pawan

Josh

Sofia

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringthismonth

Rolls-Royce Wraith

Uniquely Athletic The coming of a new Rolls-Royce is a climactic event in the motoring world, much like a total lunar eclipse or the passing of Hayley’s comet; it only happens once every few years, so everyone sits up and takes notice!

There are automakers who seem to pump out a new or updated model every few months, filling every conceivable segment in the market with a bewildering range of different sizes, shapes, and configurations of cars.

Not so, however, with Rolls-Royce. A brand that epitomises exclusivity, they release models with a majestic but glacial pace that only serves to highlight the sheer grandeur of their vehicles.

The last model released, the Rolls-Royce Ghost, made its debut back in 2010. However, before that, the Phantom, was unveiled way back in 2003, with the Phantom Drophead Coupé and the Phantom Coupé coming in 2007 and 2008 respectively.

This gives you some indication as to how much thought, care and preparation goes into each and every Rolls-Royce model!

This new model, the Rolls-Royce Wraith, is no exception.

Essentially a more powerful and sportier coupé based on the chassis of the Ghost, the Wraith follows an old Rolls-Royce tradition of being named after supernatural entities, with names such as, Ghost Silver Spirit and Silver Seraph making up the back history of elegant and luxurious models. The Wraith name itself was first applied to a Rolls-Royce back in 1937.

This new creation is hailed as “the most powerful and dynamic Rolls-Royce in history. With the ability to accelerate Also this month

from 0-100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, the 624bhp model from the world’s pinnacle super-luxury marque presents a unique character defined by power, style and drama, and a hint of intrigue, while maintaining the hallmark Rolls-Royce attributes of luxury, refinement and hand-craftsmanship.

The most powerful Rolls-Royce in history, Wraith promises the sense of adventure and speed that drove our founding forefather. But of course, Wraith’s starting point is luxury, refinement and quality, traits that remain as important to RollsRoyce customers today as they were more than a century ago.

In profile, Wraith’s sweeping fastback design gives the car its unique athletic character. Further expression of dynamic intent can be seen in Wraith’s deeply recessed grille, wide rear track and dramatic two-tone presentation.

Performance delivers on the promise of Wraith’s styling.

Power delivery is effortless, but dramatic, thanks to a V12 engine married to eight-speed automatic ZF transmission.

624bhp/465kW is available to the driver while the 0-100km/h sprint is achieved in 4.6 seconds.

A hefty 800Nm of torque is available, while a wide rear track, shorter wheelbase and lower roof height further contribute to the most powerful, involving driving experience of any RollsRoyce in history. The car’s suspension has been tuned to minimise body roll, while steering weight is heavier at high speeds and lighter at low speeds, adding to the spirited drive.

Euro Motors is the exclusive distributor for Rolls-Royce in the Kingdom. E Call 17 750-750.

Iron Vehicle The Nissan Patrol SUV has become the holder of the Guinness World Record for the heaviest object pulled by any production vehicle.

The challenge event saw an unmodified production of Nissan Patrol haul a 170.9 tonne cargo plane, inclusive of the weight of the plane, fuel and the cargo for over 50 metres, smashing the previous record by 15 tonnes.

The event was launched in 2012 and invited the region’s people to share their ideas on how they have dreamt of using this iconic vehicle online. Fans were encouraged to design an innovative test for the Patrol for a chance to win a trip to Japan.

106 x Wheels - 107 x Showcase

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 105

motoringwheels

Full of Surprises!

TONY SIDGWICK If you’re in the market for a highly comfortable and practical at a great price, then the Renault Koleos could be just what you’re looking for.

Model Renault Koleos Model year 2013 Engine 2.5-litre I4 16v Displacement 2,488cc Horsepower 169 hp @ 6,000 rpm Torque 226 Nm @ 4,400 rpm Transmission Six-speed CVT with smooth shift quality Transmission 0 to 60 mph: 10.3 seconds Top speed 185 km/h

106 September 2013

The Renault Koleos is a vehicle designed by Renault and developed by Nissan. It therefore benefits from both French style and Japanese reliability.

We test drove the top-spec LE model variant of the Renault Koleos and the first thing that will surprise you about this vehicle is the impressive list of features it has for an affordable car. For starters, it has leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, rear A/C, radio/CD player with a Bose seven-speaker system with subwoofer, ESP, ABS, front and rear park assist, hill start assist, keyless entry and start, cruise control, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, rear passenger sun blinds… You get the idea!

That’s pretty good for a car going for BD9,995; prices do start at around seven-and-a-half grand, but the base model obviously won’t be quite so well-endowed.

This model also has an AWD switch for tricky terrain or road conditions, meaning that it will go to many more places than a two-wheel-drive would. Two-wheel-drive is the standard mode but you can select four wheels with smart torque distribution for slippery or muddy surfaces, or even differential lock mode for REALLY tricky spots. We didn’t have the chance to put it through its paces off road but we’d be interested to see how far it got!

It’s also highly practical. It’ll comfortably seat five occupants, although legroom in the rear would be an issue for anyone over six feet tall. However, the cargo space has plenty of room and the rear seats also fold completely flat, turning the Koleos into a minivan with lots of carrying potential when needed. A bonus is the split tailgate (or what they call the ‘picnic seat’, making

loading easier and giving you somewhere to rest your bones after a session of heavy lifting!

The next thing that will surprise you is the plucky little 2.5litre four-cylinder 16v engine. On paper, it only puts out 169hp and 226Nm of torque, but don’t be fooled — this engine punches far above its weight, with impressive amounts of pull especially at highway cruising speeds.

And lastly, what surprised us most was the fantastic ride comfort. The Koleos practically glides along the road, demonstrating a superior level of smoothness than some of its competitors, even in more high-end brands, and allowing very little road noise in to the cabin. Truly impressive!

The exclusive distributor for Renault in the Kingdom is Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, and the Koleos is available for a test drive from the showroom in Ma'ameer.

E Call 17 703-286.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

EURO MOTORS

Mini Brings the Style, Again!

The limited edition Mini Ray Edition blazes into Bahrain, bringing subtle but eye-catching design elements featuring exclusive colour schemes.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MINI is already known for its quirky retro design and funky, vibrant brand image. Recreating the excitement and nostalgia of the classic British Mini, the new MINI, now a subsidiary of BMW Group, takes the classic look and feel of the old Mini, and adds modern technology to produce a car that is compact, practical, and yet extremely fun to drive.

However, they obviously still felt that the MINI could be jazzed up a little, and so they’ve released the MINI Ray limited edition range.

Stylish and sporty, this nifty new special edition, available on the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Countryman, is guaranteed to turn heads with its extremely good looks and ‘fluorescensational’ colour scheme.

Boasting dynamically designed exterior and interior features, this special edition of the MINI is now on sale at Euro Motors, the exclusive MINI importer for the Kingdom of Bahrain.

“With their unique design and style, we are sure the limited edition MINI Ray will be extremely well received in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” says Paul Yates, general manager at Euro

Motors. “Building on the fun and excitement that is associated with the MINI family, the MINI Ray is certain to exceed customer expectations.”

The sports stripes and mirror caps feature luminous colour options in green and other colours. But this is not all. The Ray Edition also features a sporty John Cooper Works exterior kit, exclusive 17-inch light-alloy wheels, glass roof and comfort access.

Sporty meets chic in the cabin as passengers sit back and relax in black leather upholstery in combination with a leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles.

The MINI Ray Edition is available in the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Countryman variants only, and is powered by a 1.6-litre 135kW/184 hp four-cylinder engine with Twin Scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and variable valve control.

Combined with the MINI’s small size, low weight and superb handling characteristics, the turbocharged four-pot makes the MINI Cooper S a huge amount of fun to drive!

E Call 17 750-750.

September 2013 107

motoring

EBRAHIM K. KANOO

The Quintessential SUV

Toyota’s plucky little compact 4x4, the RAV4, was a pioneer for SUVs in the 1990’s, and remains a segment leader to this day!

108 September 2013

Originally built as the car for people who wanted the space, storage and practicality of an SUV, but with the manoeuvrability and affordability of a normal car, the RAV4 was a pioneer in its class. However, it now faces stiff competition in an increasingly crowded segment.

To stay ahead of the field, the newly launched RAV4 is a bold reinvention of the world’s original crossover SUV, with sophisticated and strong styling, and refined, premium-quality interior design. The latest model has made a great impact on the Bahrain market with a significant increase in demand compared to the old generation RAV4.

This latest generation is equipped with a 2.5-litre fourcylinder engine with Dual VVT-I technology which enhances power delivery efficiency to produce 180hp. The Dynamic Torque Control 4WD has been adapted to the new RAV4, which allows the driver to track the intended driving line. This improves drivability on every road surface condition, both slippery and dry, enhancing RAV4 performance and handling, and offering more driving pleasure.

In a significant break with its heritage, RAV4 has switched from its side-hinged rear door to a convenient roof-hinged liftgate with a spare tyre stored under the cargo floor. The RAV4 is available with reinforced UV-cut green glass LED daytime running lights. Complementing these are power side mirrors, power door locks and power windows and a rear window wiper.

All RAV4s have driver and front passenger seats with a slim back, enhancing rear passenger knee room. They also feature 60/40 split-fold rear-row seats that recline several degrees to enhance passenger comfort.

In conjunction with a new, more comfortable and focused driving position, the new RAV4 builds on these key SUV attributes with retuned front and rear suspension systems, revised electric power steering, and a new dynamic torque control 4WD.

The new RAV4’s interior has a premium, sophisticated look with soft-touch accents and driver-centric controls. RAV4’s dash panel and gauges all feature new clear blue illumination, which provides crisp visibility in most ambient light conditions, and a unified, coherent appearance at night. Standard on all RAV4 models is Display Audio with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/CD, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and AUX mini-jack, and six speakers.

The SUV builds on the very highest standards of occupant safety and pedestrian impact protection evolved over three generations of the compact Toyota SUV, with even higher levels of active and passive safety. The new RAV4 has a class-leading two airbags, in addition to the electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, an anti-lock braking system and hillstart assist control.

Prices start from BD9,300 and include a comprehensive warranty for four years or 150,000 km, whichever comes first.

For more information visit the Toyota showroom in Sitra or visit www.facebook.com/Toyotabahrain.

E Call 17 730-730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VOLKSWAGEN CENTRE BAHRAIN

Redefining Heritage The seventh generation of the world’s most famous hot hatch has arrived in Bahrain, much to the excitement of motoring enthusiasts across the Kingdom.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Few cars can excite the motoring world more than a new incarnation of the VW Golf GTI. It’s a name that has been whipping petrol heads into a frenzy for 37 years, and shares an iconic status that’s right up there with cars like the Mini Cooper and the Porsche 911.

The standard variant of this latest incarnation, the Golf Mark 7, has already won two major automotive awards, the 2013 European Car of the Year and the 2013 World Car of the Year, so we should expect great things from the sporty model, the GTI! But how does a company manage to keep on improving something that’s already so good with every successive model?

Well, it’s all down to technology. Improvements in engine efficiency combined with a lower weight mean that they can wring more power out of the 2-litre turbocharged direct injection (TDI) engine for less fuel than ever before, with an 18 per cent increase in fuel economy over the previous model.

Torque has been increased to 350Nm, compared to 280Nm in the last GTI, and it puts out 220hp. The result is the new GTI will hit 100km/h from standstill in just 6.5 seconds, and reach a top speed of 244km/h, which is 10km/h faster than its predecessor.

Interestingly, this new Golf GTI puts out exactly twice the power of the very first GTI, which produced 110hp back in 1976.

However, these figures don’t actually mean that much because, with the GTI, it has always been about the driving experience — the fantastic handling, the responsive steering and the smooth drive. All signs so far point to the new GTI having all this in abundance.

“The new model is sportier than ever and has been one of the most eagerly anticipated new models for 2013,” says Felix Miranda, brand manager, Volkswagen Centre Bahrain. “The

Golf GTI has long been a favourite amongst automotive enthusiasts across the Middle East and last year accounted for 60 per cent of all Golf model sales in the region.”

The new Golf GTI is distinguished from earlier versions by numerous additional features and classic GTI insignia. On the exterior, this includes the red-painted brake calipers, smoked LED rear lights in a custom design as well as chrome tailpipes on the left and right.

The GTI is available in three colours — tornado red, black and pure white, which have been typical for the Golf GTI since its early days. Also standard are the newly designed 18-inch Austin alloy wheels.

Inside, the classic tartan pattern on the seat covers has been updated, with the seats and door trim panels available with leather upholstery. The GTI-specific look in the interior is rounded out by such features as an independent leather sport steering wheel (with multifunction keys), red ambience lighting and pedals made of brushed stainless steel.

The exclusive distributor for Volkswagen in the Kingdom is Behbehani Brothers, and the new VW Golf GTI is available for a test drive from the showroom in Sitra.

E Call 17 459-977.

September 2013 109

motoring

AHMED ZAYANI & SONS

America’s Iconic Pickup!

The distinctive Ram is back, making the bold claim of being “the most capable, best-looking halftonne pickup in the world!”

110 September 2013

Formerly known as the Dodge Ram, ‘Ram’ is now a distinctive brand under the umbrella of the Chrysler Group. The core of this brand is ‘the Ram’, an instantly recognisable full-size pickup truck that comes in many model variants, from colossal six-wheel heavy-duty farming hardware to muscular sport trucks for private use. The Ram has won Motor Trend magazine’s ‘Truck of the Year’ four times now, most recently for 2013 with the Ram 1500 that you see here.

This fourth-generation Ram claims best-in-class fuel efficiency and boasts tonnes of new technology and features. Pioneering fuel-saving systems include an available eight-speed automatic transmission, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including air suspension.

“Every area of the truck has been changed — from a newly designed frame with air suspension to a new eight-speed transmission to a new interior with the next-generation Uconnect system,” explains Godwin D’Cruz, sales and marketing manager at Ahmed Zayani& Sons.

“With best-in-class towing and payload, best-in-class ride and handling and best-in-class aerodynamics, the latest Ram 1500 delivers unmatched content, performance and capability to our customers.”

The Ram 1500 is powered by the legendary 5.7-litre HEMI V8 with MDS (fuel-saving cylinder shut-off) and VVT that delivers 395hp, 407 ft-lb. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V8 trucks, linked to either a standard six-speed or available new class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission.

The Ram is now also available with an all-new air suspension system which operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via the console or key fob controls. It boasts five height settings. The latest Ram features the next generation 8.4-inch Uconnect system with background screens tailor-made

to specific Ram models and themes. Previously only available on premium models, the 3.5-inch vehicle information screen that displays vehicle operating functions is now standard.

Uconnect allows access to hands-free mobile phone operation and navigation and is designed to provide drivers and passengers with relevant, focused and contextual information that is not distracting and easy to use, allowing drivers to remain focused on the road. Neatly integrated within the upper storage tier of the centre console, a new multimedia input includes USB, SD card and auxiliary connections.

The Ram 1500 now also features available Keyless Enter ’n Go technology, which allows the doors to be unlocked and the vehicle ignition to be started without having to touch the key fob.

An available remote start feature allows drivers to start their vehicle from up to 300 feet away. E Call 17 238-822.

Ride Height Options l Normal Ride Height (NRH): 220.98mm of clearance (measured from the base of the door sill) is the default, load-levelled ride height, l Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle by 15.24mm from NRH. Aero Mode improves fuel efficiency by up to 1 per cent and is activated by vehicle speed, adjusting for optimal performance and fuel economy, l Off-road 1: Lifts the truck 30.48mm from NRH for added height in clearing obstacles, l Off-road 2: Delivers more off-road capability, increasing ground clearance by 50.8mm over NRH, l Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 50.8mm for easy entry/ exit and cargo loading.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ZAYANI MOTORS

A New Eco-car

The Space Star is the affordable new compact car from a Japanese car brand — which is claimed to be their most economical yet!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Last month, Mitsubishi launched the Space Star, an economy model that they describe as a global compact car developed on the concepts of high fuel efficiency, affordability and compactness.

“The Space Star is an all-new compact car focused on premium fuel efficiency and lower emissions just right for the times where demand for superior fuel efficiency and ecofriendliness are increasing all over the world,” says Mohammed Zaki, general manager of Zayani Motors, the official dealers for Mitsubishi in Bahrain.

This efficiency is thanks to Mitsubishi’s plucky little 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine coupled with Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control system which delivers a maximum output of 57kW at 6,000rpm.

Adding to the Space Star’s eco-credentials is a three-bar Eco Drive Assist display on the ‘M’ and ‘G’ trim levels that indicates current fuel efficiency. There’s also an Auto-Stop & Go monitor which displays how long the engine has been stopped on a given journey.

These features assist the driver in maintaining the optimum fuel efficiency of the car. Combined with reduced aerodynamic and roll resistance, resulting in lower emissions that are among the best in the car’s class.

In addition, optimisation of the body structure and more

extensive use of high-tensile strength panels make the vehicle some seven per cent lighter than a usual car for its class, contributing to better fuel economy. The Space Star also uses Mitsubishi’s impact-resistant RISE body, which absorbs and distributes impact force to deliver high levels of occupant safety, despite the lighter weight.

Mitsubishi aims to maximise the ownership experience of any of their models through MMDS (the Mitsubishi Motors Development System). This comprehensive quality management system sets and evaluates the achievement of specific performance benchmarks within each stage of operations from vehicle planning, sales and after-sales services. Together with MMPW (the Mitsubishi Motors Production Way), it offers a unified global quality assurance framework.

Add to this the absolutely unique ten-year/one million kilometres warranty and you are guaranteed to enjoy huge levels of satisfaction and value for money from owning the new Mitsubishi Space Star.

To see the Space Star, visit either the Mitsubishi showrooms in Ma’ameer or Arad.

E Call 17 703-703.

September 2013 111

motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS

Superb, Sensational, Superlative…

The flagship model of one of the most established luxury brands in the world, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, represents the absolute pinnacle of premium German automotive expertise.

112 September 2013

It’s not just the luxury that defines an S-Class — not just the unbelievably smooth and comfortable ride, the incredible power delivery, or the impeccable handling. It’s also the absolutely unrivalled and industry-leading technology.

It’s often said in the motoring industry that technology you see in a new S-Class will start to be seen in the rest of the field ten years down the line. For example, the S-Class was the first car to feature seatbelt pretensioners in 1981. The car was also the first car in Europe to introduce airbags.

For the 2014 S-Class, things are no different. Featured very heavily on the new model is what Mercedes calls ‘Intelligent Drive’. There is a whole host of technologies which combine to create this, but we’ll try to summarise them here.

What it basically means is that the S-Class has 360-degree all-round vision, thanks to a new stereo camera and radar sensors, which detects road conditions and potential dangers.

It then adapts the car’s safety and suspension settings to deal with any potential situation.

For example, the new S-Class is the world’s first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. If Road Surface Scan detects unevenness by means of the stereo camera, Magic Body Control instantaneously sets up the suspension to deal with the new situation.

However, it’s the range of safety features which is perhaps the most impressive aspect. The Pre-Safe Brake can detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 50km/h. Pre-Safe Plus can recognise an imminent rear-end collision and warn the following traffic by activating the rear hazard warning lights at a high frequency.

If the danger of a collision persists, the system can also firmly apply the stationary vehicle’s brakes and thus minimise the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by the impact.

And then there are the driver-assist technologies, such as the

Distronic Plus with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot. This takes the burden off the driver when it comes to lane guidance and is also able to follow vehicles in traffic jams automatically.

Night View Assist Plus was further improved and supplemented by a thermal imaging camera. Night View Assist Plus can alert the driver to the potential danger posed by pedestrians or animals in unlit areas in front of the vehicle by automatically switching from the speedometer to a crystalsharp night view image and highlighting the sources of danger.

Furthermore, a spotlight function is able to flash any pedestrians detected ahead. This attracts the driver’s attention to the source of the danger at the same time as warning the person on the side of the road.

And then there is Attention Assist, which can warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness in an extended speed range and notify the driver of their current state of fatigue and the driving time since the last break. It offers an adjustable sensitivity setting and, if a warning is emitted, indicates nearby service areas in the Command navigation system.

We could go on and on, but we don’t have the space. There is simply no other car in the world with the level of technology that the 2014 Mercedes S-Class offers! E Call 17 785-454.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

reportdental

An Ear to Ear Smile

Most of us put off regular visits to the dentist until something starts hurting.

What you need to know is that when it comes to your teeth, prevention is your ally. Here are the crème de la crème in dentistry. Now make that appointment!

We may not admit it, but the main reason your last teeth check-up was so long ago is because we all fear an uncomfortable, even painful, experience on the dreaded chair.

That’s why doctors today go to great heights to make sure their treatments are pain-free. And most of them are.

If you still think that a simple, routine procedure will have you squirming, then you are in for a pleasant surprise. Today’s technologies allow for minimal discomfort and maximum results.

The advancements in dental innovations provide us with a host of treatment options that can land us the smile of our dreams.

If your problems are less aesthetic and more medical, the country is well-equipped to cater to your needs too. From a comfortable root canal to jaw reshaping issues, the various clinics and centres in Bahrain house some of the best practitioners in the region.

These facilities run by internationally certified professionals using some of the latest technologies have eliminated the need to travel abroad for exceptional quality services. Bahrain This Month rounds up the top dentists in the Kingdom.

A major department that Al Kindi Specialised Hospital boasts is its oral and dental care division. Using top-of-theline equipment, the hospital performs a range of dental services, from regular checkups and cleaning to root canals and cosmetic procedures. E Call 17 240-444.

American Mission Hospital Being both results-oriented and cost-efficient, the American Mission Hospital has been providing health care service to the people of Bahrain since 1903. Their dental clinic offers multispecialty practice with a full spectrum of dental services and treatment procedures in the fields of cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics and periodontics. E Call 17 253-447.

Al Kindi Specialised Hospital Located in New Zinj, Al Kindi Specialised Hospital houses trained and experienced practitioners in a number of medical fields including obstetrics and gynaecology, IVF, orthopaedics and trauma surgery. The hospital has state-of-the-art technology, delivering the latest treatments in a comfortable environment.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 115

Dr Amal Dental Centre Located within Noor Specialist Hospital, this centre offers quick, long-lasting fixes to attain a perfect smile. Among the services offered are teeth whitening, composite veneers and porcelain laminate veneers or lumineers. For a more naturallooking set of teeth, the clinic uses porcelain laminate veneers, custom-fabricated to match the exact shade and size of your teeth. E Call 17 240-050.

Dr Rashad Al-Alawi Dental Clinic Specialising in cosmetic surgery and tooth replacement with dental implants, the Dr Rashad Al Alawi Dental Clinic combines quality services and individualised patient care. A complete smile makeover is easily attainable with the clinic’s two Boston University-trained doctors. E Call 17 717-199.

Bahrain Specialist Hospital Housed in modern premises overlooking the sea, Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH), located in Juffair, provides excellent healthcare in a comfortable setting.

With 83 rooms and suites as well as a day-case unit that can accommodate 12 patients, the hospital boasts a full range of specialist clinics, ranging from internal to pulmonary medicine. BSH’s dental department performs general dentistry, implants, extractions and cosmetic services.

E Call 17 812-000.

Ceram Dental Specialist Centre Located in New Zinj, Ceram Dental Specialist Centre delivers top-of-the-line solutions to everyday dental needs. If you want a Hollywood smile without catching a flight to LA, this is the place to go. The centre’s services include cosmetic, aesthetic and bonding veneers, teeth lightening and even crystal tooth jewel implants. E Call 17 596-060.

116 September 2013

Royal Bahrain Hospital Royal Bahrain Hospital (RBH) is a multi-speciality medical centre that offers a range of services across almost two dozen medical disciplines. The Royal Dental Studio is equipped with a full roster of dentists, orthodontists and endodontists.

Their doctors use a mix of advanced techniques to ensure healthy gums and teeth. A comprehensive evaluation of oral health is offered based on which preventive and conservative measures and treatments are advised. E Call 17 246-800.

Smile Dental Clinic The clinic’s team of experts are known for result-oriented services and many from across the region flock to its doors for the unique Six Month Smile system. Led by Dr Ali Qambar, the system is made for those who have been put off by the thought of wearing braces or aligners. Other services offered include porcelain veneers, tooth whitening, gum reshaping and cosmetic contouring. E Call 17 400-899.

The Gulf Dental Specialty Hospital With an aim to keep up with new trends in dentistry to provide their patients with efficient and durable services, the hospital covers a wide spectrum of dental services. For 14 years, their expert team of doctors have offered all kinds of treatments under a single roof. The centre continues to provide the latest in oral health equipment and procedures. E Call 17 717-199.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DR AMAL DENTAL CENTRE

Keep Smiling If you thought that a perfect set of pearly whites is only for celebrities, think again.

We sit down with Dr Amal Hasan Al Samak to learn about what her centre can offer.

Dr Amal

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A person’s smile could make or break their look. It even affects the first impression we have of people. Aesthetic dentistry is a branch that deals with improving a person’s teeth.

Owing to modern technology, there are various options available to brighten up a person’s smile. This is known to indirectly improve his or her confidence.

Dr Amal Dental Centre, located within Noor Specialist Hospital, offers teeth whitening, composite veneers and porcelain laminate veneers or lumineers.

“Teeth whitening, also known as in-office bleaching, is a simple, quick and easy chairside procedure. It’s recommended for patients with stains and discolouration of the teeth. There are over-the-counter teeth whitening products. However, their results are comparatively low,” explains Dr Amal, senior dental consultant. Composite veneers are a single-visit procedure as well. In this method, tooth-coloured material is bonded on the enamel. For that million-dollar celebrity smile, the clinic uses porcelain laminate veneers.

These ultra-thin veneers are bonded directly to the teeth with the help of special bonding materials. They require a minimum of three visits of treatment as these are custom-fabricated to match the exact shade and size of your teeth. They give a more natural appearance and are durable.

“Each procedure is different and tailored to suit the needs of the patient. So depending upon the time and type of result required, you are provided ample options,” she adds. Dr Amal has a fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburg and a membership in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. E Call 17 240-050 or 33 456-192.

September 2013 117

marketplace GULF DENTAL SPECIALITY HOSPITAL

Oral Health

Modern advancements in medicine mean that there are effective and painless treatments available to patients today. This speciality hospital keeps up with the latest trends in dentistry.

Dr Amina Mustafa

For 14 years Gulf Dental Speciality Hospital has offered all dental services under one roof. Having the full capacity to handle all cases makes the experience smooth and less stressful for the patient.

“We have the patient’s records in one place, facilitating ease in continuing treatments,” explains the hospital’s CEO Dr Amina Mustafa. “If a dental lab is needed, we have one in-house. If consultation from various doctors is required, then it can be done swiftly because specialist doctors from all areas of dentistry are available at the hospital.”

This convenience is coupled with offering the latest in dental equipment and treatments.

All types of cosmetic treatments, using the latest materials like lumineers, known to give the perfect smile, are on offer.

When dealing with crowns, patients now have the option of zirconium, a new metal-free material which is aesthetically identical to a normal tooth but has the strength of metal.

The hospital boasts laser technology used in procedures like surgeries and gum treatment, which enhances healing and reduces the possibility of infections.

“Phobia is not the only reason people stay away from the dentist,” Dr Amina explains. The reality is that tooth decay and gum disease are totally preventable. All that is lacking is the knowledge of how to prevent them.

“Educating children and adults about their oral health is a priority for us at the hospital.

The first step towards healthier teeth is ensuring that you do regular checkups, that is, every six months,” she adds.

E Call 17 741-444.

Specialised Dentistry. Personalized Care.

Providing quality dental care since 1999

We have Specialised Doctors. We have state-of-the-art dental equipment. We have our own dental lab. We have made a promise to give our patients specialised dentistry and personalized care. Whatever your teeth need, we have it.

PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY | CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY | ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS | COSMETIC DENTISTRY | LUMINEERS | FILLINGS | VENEERS | ROOTCANAL TREATMENTS | CROWNS, BRIDGES AND DENTURES | IMPLANTS | GUM TREATMENTS | ORAL SURGERIES | ALL TYPES OF EXTRACTIONS | LASER DENTISTRY

118 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DR RASHAD AL ALAWI CLINIC

Reasons to Smile Improving your smile is not as daunting as it used to be. With today’s medical technologies, the perfect set of teeth is easily attainable.

Before

After

Before

After

Dr Rashad Al Alawi Dental Clinic pairs quality services and specialties in dental implants with cosmetic dentistry to provide patients with a comfortable experience. A visit to the dentist is no longer a hassle, especially when the clinic is focused on delivering the best results.

Having one or more missing teeth can have a negative impact on a person’s confidence. If you do not prefer dentures and some other alternatives, the clinic offers dental implants which are placed by internationally trained experts.

The artificial tooth roots are placed into a person’s jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. The benefits of opting for implants over other traditional solutions are improved appearance, better speech, oral health and longevity.

They look and feel like your own teeth, so comfort is never an issue.

Those looking for a smile makeover can opt for the clinic’s various cosmetic services. With a speciality in aesthetics, the professionally trained team focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, mouth, smile and facial expressions. “With dental rejuvenation procedures, we improve the aesthetics of a person’s smile. Our services include teeth whitening and bonding,” explains owner Dr Rashad Al Alawi, who graduated from and trained at Boston University, specialising in tooth replacement by dental implants. Located in Adliya, the clinic also offers a complete range of general services including checkups, cleaning and veneers. E Call 17 717-199.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 119

bystanderthismonth

Alba Gergaoun Night Festival Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) held a traditional Gergaoun Night Festival for children of Alba employees at the Alba Club during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The celebrations included a traditional band performing the Alfuraisah dance, henna, competitions, distribution of gifts and gergaoon bags as well as an array of Bahraini sweets

Reem, Noor & Mariam

Aysha, Mohamed & Nas

Esra & Alya

Fatima, Haja & Shad

Reema & Jawaher

Bayan, Sharifa & Dana

Dana & Elena

Fatima, Lujayn, Fajar & Rawan

Aya & Diana

Latifa & Aysha

Fajer, Assa & Fatima

Rubeena, Reem & Nida

Latifa & Abdulla

State-of-the-Art Facilities designed for a brighter vision Medical Specialties (screening & treatment): Diabetic Retinopathy, Vitreous Hemorrhage and Intra Vitreal injections, Use of Pascal (Argon) & Zeiss (YAG) laser machines. Treatment of Keratoconus with cross linking technology, Glaucoma (raised intraocular pressure), Squint & diplopia.

Surgical Specialties: Suture-less Phacoemulsification (cataract) surgery, Refractive & corneal surgeries, Oculoplastic procedures including Botox & fillers, Suture-less Retina & Vitreous surgery, Retinal detachments repair surgeries and Macular holes repair surgeries Investigational Specialties (diagnostic aids): Ocular Ultrasonography, Ultra Bio Microscopy (UBM), Corneal Topography, Automated Field of vision (Perimetry), Intraocular lens measurement (Biometry), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA)

Gulf Eye Center

2nd Floor of The Gulf Diabetes Specialist Center, Blk. 329, Rd. 29, Bldg. 99, Salmaniya, Manama Kingdom of Bahrain

Tel: (+973) 1723 9171 • 1723 9239 E-mail: eye@gulfdiabetes.com Facebook/Instagram/Twitter : gulfdiabetes 120 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Azadea Staff Ghabga The Azadea Group held a ghabga for members of its staff at the Golden Tulip Hotel's Afandi Tent during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Ahmed Al Hawaj, Hussain Al Hawaj, Remya, Jawad Y. Al Hawaj & Pierre

Shahid, Ali & Samir

Pierre & Dalia

Abdulwahab & Ibrahim

Farid & Elie

Hassan, Hussain & Zaid

Rajith & Nishel

Jamal & Fadi

Natasha

The new school year is right around the corner! Start it right with these three easy, simple and healthy lunchbox recipes.

Just scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit our website to view the full recipes with a printable shopping list!

www.organicsbahrain.com

New extension Seef Mall |1st Floor | Manama| Bahrain Tel: 13333286, 13333288 | www.organicsbahrain.com Organic Food and Cafe Bahrain

Bathool & Ameena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

@organicsbahrain

Sujata & Amro

September 2013 121

bystanderthismonth

BAS Annual Ghabga Bahrain Airport Services (BAS) organised its annual Ramadan ghabga for members of staff and a nunmber of guests during the Holy Month. The event was held at the InterContinetal Regency's Al Thuraya Ramadan Tent

Mahmeed Al Hashmi, Salman Al Mahmeed & Abdulla Al Mahmood

Akber Al Sa'ati, Nabeel Taqi & Mahmood Al Sa'ati

Salman, Mubarak Fahad, Jamal Hashim & Rajneesh Bagga

David & Salman

May & Miranda

Salman, Najwa & Mohamed Khalil

May & Ameera

Andrew & Hisham

Abdulla

Ahmed Janahi

Mahar Al Musallam

ALL NEW FRIDAY BRUNCH RE-INVENTED Starting from the 6th of September Our new exciting services make this brunch experience even better than before.

• Pick-up and drop-off from your location for as little as BD 10 for minimum of 10 up to 25 people. Booking should be made 24 hours before your intended Friday brunch date.

• Surprising cooking lessons for those budding chefs.

• Fridays from 10:30am to 4:00pm

BD 21.000 ++ food and selected alcoholic beverages BD 15.000 ++ food and non-alcoholic beverages BD 7.500 ++ 6-12 years For more information and reservations, please call +973 17 535 000 or 39995182/5166 Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel @GTBahrainHotel BAHR AIN - HOTE L

International standards, local flavours.

GOLDENTULIPBAHRAIN.COM

122 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain Insurance Association Ghabga The Bahrain Insurance Association hosted a ghabga for members and guests during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The ghabga was held the Gulf Hotel's Ramadan tent Essam Al Ansari & Mohammed

Othman, Younis & Nader

Hussain & Salah

Yahya, Rob, Jaffer & Philip

Philip, Kannan, Thamodharan, Venkat, Prem & Jawad

Musheera & Sahar

Anand & Ramani

Steve

Nabil & Ayman

Ahsan & Kurien

Charles

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 123

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain City Centre Gergaoun The Bahrain City Centre held a traditional children's Gergaoun at the mall's Central Galleria. Children were invited to dress in their finest traditional wear and recieved small gifts and sweets Mala, Duniya & Harsha

Rayan & Talal

Rehan & Um Rehan

Mai

Eman & Noor

Kids at the event

Alia & Rawia

124 September 2013

Manal & Dana

Ali & Mohsen

Alisa & Khaled

Aida & Maram

Lanah & Marriam

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Gulf Diabetes Specialist Centre Ghabga The Gulf Diabetes Specialist Centre held a staff ghabga during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The event was held The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

Gamel, Rana & Noha

Enas, Ahmed & Rana

Selwaraj

Laila, Bebs & Hads

Dr Wael

Sandhya, Hasitha, Mariata, Reena & Maria

Adora & Jowan

Ella, Reeta, Sam & Kritika

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Lois & Sharon

Harsha & Radha

Joji & Lakshman

September 2013 125

bystanderthismonth

Rotary Clubs Joint Ghabga A joint ghabga was held by the Rotary Clubs of Bahrain during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Members and families of the clubs attended the event that was held at the Gulf Hotel's Ramadan Tent

Hussain, Rashida, Sebahat & Chetan

Joseph, Osama, Zeina, Steve & Costes

Mazin, Sadiq, Marjan, Amal, Fareed, Lait, Hasan, Nasreen & Peter

Andrew, Ernst & Susie

126 September 2013

Laura & Larry

94mm (w) x 125mm (h) 3mm bleed

Kristina, Zeina & Christos with

Marjan & Rekha

Bob

Fareed

Yahya

Hadil & Ozer

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Qishan Li 80th Birthday Party Qishan Li, a resident of China, celebrated his 80th birthday in Bahrain with his daughter Yi Li and her family and friends at her residence in Adliya

Rong Fen, Qishan Li & Yi Li

Yi Li, You Sheng, Lu Yue, Rong Fen, Qishan Li, Li Peng, Zhuna & Si Yuan

Zhenshen, Rong Fen, Qishan, Laidine & Ding Chao

June

Thinking of Real Estate?

TALK TO US

Qishan Li cuts his birthday cake

Poomani, Rong Fen & Qishan Li

Let us help you find your future property or investment...for life.

S. Parekh

+1-647-971-3490 +1-647-787-3490 Meera, Viji, Rong Fen, Qishan Li, Devi, Murali & Dhanush

www.sabithaparekh.kwrealty.com Tessie, Rong Fen, Qishan & Mario

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Edna, Jared & Luis

September 2013 127

bystanderthismonth

RHM Clients Lunch Red House Marketing (RHM) hosted a luncheon to celebrate the success of the 'India in Bahrain' supplement that was published by RHM last month. The event held at Lanterns Restaurant in Adliya was attended by HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador, embassy officials, clients and RHM staff David, George, HE Dr Mohan Kumar, Navneet & Banu

George, HE Dr Mohan Kumar & Shantharam

Neha, Cristina & Mary

Pradeep

Neha, Hilary,Vineeth, Farheen & Vanessa

Ram Singh, Gaurav Gandhi & Pramod Kumar Sharma

Lalit & George

Rana

Ullas

Joan & Hilary

Neeraj

Rajneesh

PASTA | PIZZA | CAFE

all-NEW SPECIALS! INSALATA STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD PASTA Pasta Carbonara Salmone Pasta Porcino Mushroom PIZZA Pizza Gorgonzola PIZZA Porcino Mushroom VISIT US AT BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE, LEVEL 1, 17 491 391 128 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningthismonth

Mediterranean Flavours Few of us have noticed the changes occurring under our noses in Adliya. Thankfully the Middle East is taking notice quicker than those of us living here.

The PALACE Boutique Hotel has been standing on the corner of Shaikh Isa Avenue for 35 years. Boasting a new title for what was once referred to as the Palace Inn, the recent name change reflects the changes occurring to this elegant property.

Honouring the legacy of his father, Khalid al Rumaihi took over the venue following a successful 20-year international banking career. Having once vacationed throughout Europe, he recollects loving his stays at smaller boutique hotels, which often had Michelin-star restaurants attached to them. These locations left memories he cherished long after his holiday had ended.

Having inherited the entrepreneurship gene from his father, Khalid set about reinventing the hotel with a new façade.

Upgraded rooms and revamped dining venues now combine to

Also this month

enhance the travel experience of the hotel’s guests.

The vision of Masso restaurant was born during his visit to several hotel properties. The rustic bistro boasts a southern Mediterranean menu, featuring dishes from Italy, France and Spain.

Esquire magazine has listed Masso among its top 50 restaurants in the Middle East. The restaurant has received an award of excellence for two years by Wine Spectator magazine. Many more achievements prove that this dining venue is a league above the rest. Featuring organic products, such as the vegetables grown in its own garden, Masso’s menu is based on the concept of sharing.

This is done to emulate the dining methods at home, where you share dishes with others members of the family.

The hotel features a recently renovated sports lounge — Polo Lounge — one of the largest of its kind in the Kingdom. Open to all every night of the week, this venue invites you to enjoy a game of pool or darts. Sit back in comfortable chairs and watch your favourite sports live on the large screens. The menu at Polo Lounge boasts international dishes that are perfect for a relaxed evening out with friends.

With a master plan in its development phase, this hotel can be seen to be 35 years young. The well-appointed rooms will be expanded. The completed version will see a new pool area, a new gym, another fine-dining restaurant and a private spa.

By honouring his father’s legacy through an enhanced property, Khalid Al Rumaihi offers future generations of the Kingdom a boutique hotel that we will all want to treasure.

E Call 17 725-000.

Masso restaurant

When? Throughout September Event? Food promotion Venue? La Med, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Here’s a delicious four-course meal to be enjoyed with your loved one.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? September 18 Event? Food promotion Venue? Mondo, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Enjoy five courses of fine cuisine and carefully selected wines.

E Call 17 525-222.

When? September 23-30 Event? Food festival Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Sample a variety of wines marking the French harvest season.

E Call 17 636-363.

When? September 26 Event? Theme night Venue? Mondo, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Indulge in an evening of light Italian snacks and cocktails.

E Call 17 525-222.

When? Throughout September Event? Food promotion Venue? The Domain Spend BD80 at a restaurant in the hotel and get a free night’s stay at the hotel.

E Call 16 000-000.

130 x Happenings

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 129

diningf&bhappenings

Your Dining Guide Executive sous chef Abhilash Raghavan joins Al Safir Hotel, bringing his experience in Indian and Asian cuisine to the hotel’s kitchens.

Mirador Hotel with its variety of newly renovated restaurants introduces the expertise of chef de partie Rafael C Dulay this month.

Dine-time delight The popular ‘Dine and Wine’ experience makes a comeback at the Diplomat Radisson Blu’s Mondo Italian Restaurant on September 18. Indulge in this fine-dining line-up that serves a five-course menu with carefully selected wines.

Mondo hosts its Italian Aperitivo Night on September 26, serving an exhaustive selection of canapés, signature cocktails and its range of beers and wines. The very talented Fabio Tulu keeps you entertained with live music on piano. You can enjoy this evening for just BD10.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa celebrates the French wine week from September 23 to 30. All restaurants at the hotel serve more than 15 varieties of French wine during the week.

The Ritz-Carlton lays out a special dinner for two throughout the month at the La Med restaurant. Enjoy this delicious fourcourse menu created by its team of chefs for just BD29++.

From discovering brandnew venues to kitchen secrets, the Kingdom’s range of dining options ensures a delectable experience throughout the month. Here’s a quick look.

Leading the way in delivering a completely new culinary experience is The Domain which, on its 34th floor, promises a unique fine-dining experience. Serving a selection of prime cuts along with classic French sides is Le Sauvage. If in mood for something lighter, move over to Le Domain, which is a fresh and romantic space, serving cuisine from the south of France.

H2O on Elite Grande Hotel’s 11th floor offers a fresh Lebanese menu. The restaurant has undergone a facelift to accommodate traditional Arabian seating, including decorative tents. The hotel’s coffee shop Julio’s now offers contemporary dishes inspired by Spanish and Italian cooking.

Mirador Hotel returns with its refurbished food and beverage venues unveiling a refreshed set of dine-out options for customers. Golden Peacock, its pan-Asian restaurant, offers novelty both in the menu and ambience.

Masterclass in style Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers the Fiamma Italian cooking class on September 7, inviting you to an exciting, interactive and insightful session with chef Stefano.

For only BD18, the class lasts from 10am until noon and includes lunch, soft drinks, tea, coffee and light snacks.

Every Monday, La Med restaurant at The Ritz-CarltonBahrain organises a cooking class with its chef from 4.306.30pm. The class includes wine tasting paired with the dish prepared.

Yes, chef!

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre introduces chef de cuisine Mike Wilkinson. A British national, he has impressed the taste buds of fine diners in five-star restaurants for 14 years.

130 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningf&bhappenings LANTERNS

Dine Out for Fun

This month, a popular Indian restaurant in the Kingdom adds a fun quotient to your dining experience. Find out what’s new in September.

Before he introduces the month’s offerings to us, Lalit Kapur, managing director of the Lanterns restaurant franchise, tells Bahrain This Month that he has a surprise for his customers.

“Regular visitors aware of the parking issues of the area will be happy to know that Lanterns in Adliya now has designated parking slots for up to 100 vehicles right next to the entrance of the restaurant,” he says.

“At Lanterns, we enjoy having people over and it is all about having fun. We have, therefore, included more fun elements into the dining experience by introducing the garden BBQ that will complement the Indian fare served.”

Multiple highlights of this Indian lounge-restaurant are the various venues within the same property. Choose your table in any of the sections based on your mood for the perfect culinary escape.

Just introduced to the outdoor patio is an all-new garden barbecue. Enjoy steaks, burgers and other delicacies with a cold beverage this summer. Fusion cuisine is there for your liking as the chefs cook up Indian and Western grills.

Indoors, diners can enjoy a wider buffet with live cooking stations. Live music adds to the dining experience. The resident musician performs from 4pm onwards, strolling from table to table to lighten the mood.

The sky terrace acts as the perfect setting for a full-on party vibe. The newly refurbished area upstairs can accommodate up to 60 guests, ideal for private parties. A DJ booth, dance floor, private bar, comfortable seating and quick bites combine to create a relaxed setting.

E Call 17 250-999.

MCDONALD’S

Embracing Local Flavours This fast-food venue has launched its newest offering. The sandwich is inspired by traditional Bahraini breakfasts.

You can now wake up to deliciousness as McDonald’s introduces a combination of grilled halloumi cheese, black olive paste, shredded lettuce and a slice of tomato on an English muffin.

The halloumi muffin represents the hamburger chain’s commitment to balancing its breakfast menu with a combination of iconic favourites and familiar local flavours.

The McDonald’s breakfast menu provides convenient, delicious, affordable products, while maintaining its reputation for serving fresh, high-quality ingredients. With so many options, mornings have never been tastier. From wholesome and savoury choices to sweet treats, you’ll find exactly what you need to start your morning off just right.

“We recognise the value and importance of a convenient, nourishing morning meal, and are proud to share the halloumi muffin with our customers in Bahrain,” says Abdulla Adel Fakhro, director of Fakhro Restaurants.

“This is an exciting addition to the breakfast menu, and is one that offers a modern take on a traditional Arabic favourite.”

As is the case with all McDonald’s products, the breakfasts are prepared using farm-fresh ingredients sourced from the company’s network of trusted suppliers. It’s quick, easy and a great way to start the day.

Ten outlets across the country serve breakfast from 6am until 11am daily. This new addition will be available in all McDonald’s outlets in the Kingdom until November 9. E Call 17 221-722 or visit www.mcdonaldsarabia.com.

132 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE DOMAIN

Refined Living Owing to its chic approach, a recently unveiled hotel in the Kingdom aims to become the next ‘it’ hotspot for the island’s hip crowds.

The Domain, in the Diplomatic Area, leaves no stone unturned to offer top-notch entertainment to its members and residents, delivering the complete ‘stay work play’ experience.

At this luxury members’ club and hotel, work and play are met with equal care and attention.

“We don’t believe in the divide between business and leisure. Our guests look for opportunities to mix business with pleasure as often as they can.

We believe that business should be pleasure,” says general manager Patrick de Groot.

Bahrain got a taste of what lies in store at the 131-room boutique hotel during its soft launch over the Eid holidays, when it opened three of its nine social spaces.

Dining en vogue Making waves as the island’s hottest new restaurant, Le Domain [34] offers a selection of haute couture cuisine from the French Riviera.

The fresh, well-lit, art nouveau settings boast an extensive glass wine library and great city views. Using authentic ingredients, this fine dining venue invites a seasoned French cuisine connoisseur as well as a novice.

A unique representation of a steakhouse that is not just for men, Le Sauvage boasts deep, woody, leather-bound interiors.

This suave space houses a great selection of curated cuts of meats; the bar offers fine malts and blends.

The third venue is a chic tapas bar called Txoko, a sky lounge that is open from noon until 2am.

Opening soon The hotel is set to unveil more social spaces this month. Look out for Imari, a mix of restaurant, lounge and bar, with a cosmopolitan Japanese ambience bathed in blue and white.

The offerings include freshly crafted robatayaki, sushi, sashimi and small plates of izakaya (Japanese tapas) along with a variety of cocktails, sake and Japanese beer.

The Living Room is a relaxed lounge space that fills the 16th floor, housing Figs & Olives, an Italo- Lebanese eatery, serving a unique combination of Italian and Lebanese inspired dishes.

The Cigar Lounge is designed in woody and leather interiors and the Curator’s Boutique houses a selection of latest fashion.

You can grab a bite, shop and unwind all in one space.

E Call 16 000-000.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 133

diningf&bhappenings AL ARISHA LEBANESE RESTAURANT

Traditional Fare

The concept of Al Arisha Lebanese Restaurant began several years ago, after owner Maha Al Mahmood got inspired by Italy, a holiday destination she often visited in her younger days. Falling in love with the cosy villa-style bistros that she spotted in its villages, she decided to start her own restaurant in Bahrain.

Boasting the warm setting of an Italian eatery and serving authentic Lebanese fare, the cuisine she most favours, Maha’s restaurant has been a favourite of local diners for nearly two decades. Nestled within Umm Al Hassam, Al Arisha serves traditional dishes that have been prepared using the timehonoured methods of home-style cooking.

Maha’s love for Lebanese cuisine is reflected in each dish that leaves her kitchen. Dedicated to delivering nothing but the best, she insists on using ingredients, especially spices, which have been imported from the markets of Lebanon. To keep it as authentic as possible, the culinary team is led by a Lebanese chef.

Known for their moutabel, Al Arisha features many delicacies of the region such as carabeige, a dessert made using specially sourced ingredients. Shanklish, loubieh bel-zeit, vine leaves and lamb brains tease the palate as starters. For the main course, you could have something as delicious as quails, kibbeh billaban, mixed grills, hammour or a local version of ghouzi.

“We can accommodate over 100 guests within the indoor and outdoor dining areas,” Maha says. “The relaxing atmosphere with water features makes for a perfect evening with your near and dear. Come enjoy a complete Lebanese dining experience and unwind over shisha in this cosy setting.”

E Call 17 725-414.

THE K HOTEL

The K Hotel’s Lebanese restaurant Kenza serves up a Middle Eastern feast, offering an authentic and entertaining experience.

Known for adhering to time-honoured recipes, it regularly organises theme nights and events to maintain an upbeat spirit.

Kenza invites you to enjoy its well-liked Lebanese buffet on Mondays and Tuesdays. Available at BD8++ per person, the spread is replete with tantalising starters and mains prepared with local ingredients and the fresh catch of the day. Round out this meal with a selection of delectable desserts.

The charm of the restaurant is not limited to the food; it extends to Kenza’s interior. Arabian tapestry on the walls and the use of traditional colours and patterns on the upholstery make the ambience truly magical.

Adding final touches to your Arabian night is Kenza’s in-house singer Marwan Mattar, who keeps diners entertained with regional tunes throughout the week.

Those who wish to partake of this exceptional experience under the stars can opt for outdoor seating. For those looking for a more secluded retreat, the restaurant offers three private rooms.

Offering authentic kababs, vegetarian specialities and traditional mezze, this fine-dining restaurant provides a laidback atmosphere. Whether you visit with friends or family, Kenza promises to be an enjoyable experience for all.

Either as a connoisseur of the cuisine or someone new to Mediterranean delicacies, you can treat your taste buds to Beirut’s best. Dedicated to delivering the fresh and delicious dishes, the venue is open daily from 7pm until 2am.

E Call 17 360-000.

To discover culinary gems, one must dine ‘where the locals dine’. This eatery has been a favourite of the Kingdom’s food lovers for 17 years.

Arabian Allure

Serving much more than authentic home-style Lebanese cuisine, this fine-dining venue is much loved by both locals and expats alike.

134 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

MEISEI RESTAURANT

The High Life When this contemporary Asian restaurant was conceptualised, the aim was to offer the best dining experience possible on the island. They seem to have succeeded.

Boasting a modern interior and contemporary Asian cuisine, the dining experience at Meisei can only be explained as Zenlike. The idea is to let natural elements engulf the mind with harmony and relaxation. This justifies the select use of stone, wood, water and glass elements within the unique venue.

This connection with nature is most evident on the rooftop terrace. The setting is ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy the company of friends, especially as summer abates.

Live music on the terrace fills the void between silence and chatter, starting with chill-out tracks and increasing the tempo as the evening progresses. Award-winning, international resident DJs Sammy and Selim read the vibes of the crowd and turn their years of experience into amazing mixes that please the audience.

In the dining world Meisei is essentially all about the brilliance of its food.

Executive chef Michael Sang-Kyu Lee has worked wonders with his authentic and inspired dishes.

The spacious venue segmented into three levels boasts three kitchens, each serving the tempting delicacies prepared by the talented chef. The ground floor offers a sushi bar and visible kitchen. This formal setting is ideal for a fine-dining experience.

The glass-enclosed first level offers a private lounge vibe

www.bahrainthismonth.com

with a long bar. This glass walls offer customers a 360 degree view of the venue. The rooftop lounge area delivers the tempting menu in addition to a full bar and the remarkable music by the in-house DJs. Whether you’re grabbing after work drinks or kicking off the weekend, this ultra-luxe lounge is perfect for enjoying a mindfully crafted cocktail. Turning regular nights into ones you’ll talk about time and again, this venue proves to be too good to keep a secret.

Behind the scenes The special events organised frequently treat the experienced palate to samples of exquisite drinks and bites.

The success of Meisei may seem instantaneous; Dr Fadhel Al Arrayed tells us that the process of creating this lavish restaurant took his team seven years to plan and execute.

“We invest in people and we wanted to give Bahrain a dining experience of a truly international feel,” the owner says.

“Remza Investment Company takes pride in being innovators.”

Such planning has paid off and the group expect to see a London-based Meisei restaurant open its doors soon. The launch of the second branch in a gastronomical nucleus of the world will give the brand exposure to a global audience.

E Call 17 007-770.

September 2013 135

diningf&bhappenings RAMADA BAHRAIN

Dining Frenzy A four-star hotel in the Kingdom is set to offer a gastronomical treat to its guests throughout the month of September.

If you are looking for a perfect way to relax with family and friends before summer ends, a visit to Ramada Bahrain in Adliya is your answer. The award-winning hotel invites you to enjoy a dip in its Oasis Pool with cool refreshments and tasty bites alongside from 10am to 7pm.

The kitchen brigade gives you reason to extend your stay with the return of the well-liked annual food festival. The Ramada Autumn Fair celebrates the colours of the season throughout September and October. Indulge in a vast selection of dishes at Le Jardin Restaurant that set you in the mood for cooler days.

The Exchange Restaurant & Pub also invites you to feast on a range of delicious dishes. The laid-back atmosphere of this nightlife venue offers the perfect break from a hard day at work.

Devour juicy steaks and burgers while you catch up on your favourite sport on one of the large screens. Take advantage of the discounted prices on selected beverages during happy hours from 5-7pm daily.

Live entertainment Hailing from the Philippines, Mystified is the new resident band at The Exchange Restaurant & Pub. The dynamic group of musicians perform an exciting mix of popular music from Tuesday to Sunday. Firing up your evening from 9pm, the artists have specialised in genres like rock and roll, heavy rock, country and R&B. This new line-up of hand-picked artists with their power-packed live performances will get you into party mode.

E Call 17 742-000.

VAPIANO

Handmade and Fresh A restaurant at Bahrain City Centre puts a new spin on the dining experience with its uniquely manufactured ingredients and modern customer service.

Vapiano, located on the first floor of Bahrain City Centre, is a casual-dining Italian restaurant, where pasta, pizza, salads and desserts are prepared to order. The concept seeks to give its guests a unique dining experience from the moment you step in.

At this restaurant, everyone gets to pick their own variety of pasta. Not many are aware that Vapiano’s signature pasta is handmade in a special glass room inside the restaurant, called the pasta manifattura.

Here you will find the pasta experts with the pasta machine, where they squeeze the dough and press it through special moulding tools. This is the only way the special sauces can be absorbed to make the perfect pasta dish.

The Vapiano experience extends to its waiter-free methods. Each diner is given a chip card, which is used at the four live cooking stations — pasta, pizza, salads and a drinks and desserts bar — where you place your order. This card is presented back at the reception at the end of your meal for payment. At this restaurant, there’s no middle person — just you and the chefs!

This month, Vapiano tempts food lovers with an array of new specials. Take a look at their menu for innovative dishes to choose from. What can be more appetising than freshly prepared, authentic Italian fare?

‘Chi va piano va sano e va lotano’ is an Italian proverb, which means those who have an easygoing approach to living will lead a healthier and longer life. Boasting a name that is inspired by this saying, Vapiano invites you to simply enjoy life. E Call 17 491-391.

136 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningf&bhappenings CASA MEXICANA

MAKI RESTAURANT

Summer Ready to Roll in Mexico

September sees the return of the ‘15 Magical Moments’ dinner at a modern eatery, which is said to be the ultimate gastronomical festival.

Find out what makes a restaurant the true home of Mexican cuisine. Have a go at the rich and diverse culinary culture.

Situated in Adliya, Casa Mexicana recently underwent renovations and the changes are evident upon arrival. The new sun-blushed red look is representative of Mexican chillies and its sun-drenched land. The interior will transport you to the Spanish haciendas of old Mexico with new brick walls and dazzling sombreros. This venue is not only the address of great Mexican food. Anyone who loves flavour and spice, adjusted to individual taste, calls Casa Mexicana their home. Attention to detail and service that is second to none makes it a favourite amongst food lovers.

Serving nachos, burritos and other Tex-Mex classics, they’re especially known for their tacos stuffed with interesting ingredients. An added bonus is that they boast an extensive selection of tequilas. Needless to say, this place does a brisk business in margaritas.

A quick lunch is always welcome, especially during weekdays.

Targeting the business crowd, the Mexican bistro has put together a special three-course meal priced at BD5.500.

Wash down your nachos, quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos and fajitas with their popular margaritas. Every Sunday, they celebrate Margarita Madness. The name speaks for itself. If you’d like to enjoy a pitcher of citrus goodness on Tuesdays, Casa Mexicana doubles the fun with half a pitcher on the house.

The restaurant is one of the few venues in the Kingdom that has a kitchen led by Mexican chefs. The live entertainment sets the mood for the evening. In true Mexican style, every night is a fiesta at this one-of-a-kind eatery. E Call 17 715-521 or 36 955-400.

When? September 16 | Event? Food festival | Venue? Maki Every month, the talented and skilled chefs at Maki Bahrain, a contemporary restaurant in Moda Mall, invite guests for a night of indulgence. Featuring 15 samplings of its staple dishes, the 15 Magical Moments dinner presents a variety of innovative dishes that Maki’s chefs have created over the years.

Since the menu is so vast, especially when it comes to maki rolls, the event provides diners with a unique opportunity to sample several dishes in one sitting. Guests will appreciate this feast as it gives them an idea of what to expect on their next visit to the luxurious venue. Not only does the event offer a sneak peek into the menu, it presents diners with complimentary beverages that fit perfectly with each of its offerings.

Manager Steve Fernandes, while not divulging the full menu, gave us a preview of the experience. He tells us that the all-new Wafa Maki, named after a fan of the restaurant, will be part of the menu. A combination of fresh salmon, crabsticks, avocado and ume wrap, this roll served with wasabi flakes, exotic cress and house-made extra virgin olive oil.

Another item on the menu is an all-time healthful favourite, Oze Akami Maki, which is made with nori, tuna, fresh avocado, wasabi flakes and house-made extra-virgin olive oil.

“There will be several other exciting, delicious dishes, some of which will be presented for the first time,” added Steve.

See for yourself; taste all the new dishes on September 16. Booking is advised.

E Call 17 522-733.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 137

Creativity in Function

afterdarkthismonth

Three is a Party!

Ankita Mamgain Here are two birthday parties that go far beyond just blowing out the candles. Join the frenzy as these popular nightclubs prepare to turn three this year.

Bahrain’s two favourite hotspots celebrate three years of rocking out your nights. Club Buffalo and Bedrock at the Ramee California Hotel invite you to two birthday parties that won’t wear off easily.

Everyone’s invited The Wild West gets a whole lot wilder on September 20 as Club Buffalo throws a big bash, inviting you to a birthdaythemed fest. The saloon will get decorated for the special day.

In-house band InTempo from the UK kicks off the entertainment with high energy performances of a medley of latest hits and

Club Buffalo

Also this month

classics. They are joined by DJ Paul Rees, who delivers tracks that will keep you dancing for the rest of the night.

The bar counter and the wine cellar are all prepared for an unlimited supply of drinks. Move on to the dining area and enjoy mouth-watering steaks, prime ribs and sandwiches, along with complimentary starters made exclusively for this party.

At midnight, enjoy a glass of champagne on the house with a slice of the delicious cake. The experience is made better with an unlimited supply of drinks at BD20 per person.

Rocking on!

One of the island’s most unique venues, Bedrock celebrates its third birthday on September 26 in true Flintstones style. Here’s a wild evening that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Dressed for the occasion, complete with streamers and balloons, the nightclub promises a fantastic time with neverending bar supplies and complimentary snacks. The Stone Age ambience meets futuristic tracks that DJ Jett and DJ Nader spin at the turntable. The visual projection accompanying the music transforms Bedrock into a sci-fi party zone. Drop by to witness how this quirky disco has come of age.

Apart from the tantalising canapés, try out the club’s Filipino specials and stone grills. The bar is prepared to keep the drinks flowing until doors close at 2am.

Enjoy a round of complimentary bubbly and a grand birthday cake at midnight. For BD15, you can drink all you can.

Bedrock xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

When? September 5 Event? DJ night Venue? KLUB 360, Elite Crystal Hotel Party with DJ Serafin; jive to the latest tracks.

E Call 33 360-300.

When? September 5 Event? Tribute act Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee International Hotel Do not miss this live tribute act if you’re a true Scorpions fan.

E Call 17 826-001.

When? September 12 Event? Comedy night Venue? The Warbler, Ramee Baisan International Laugh out loud with a number of comic acts and impromptu stand-ups.

E Call 38 381-631.

When? September 20 Event? Anniversary Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Hotel Join the celebration as one of Bahrain’s popular clubs turns three.

E Call 17 826-001.

When? September 26 Event? Anniversary Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Hotel Be part of this birthday party in true Stone Age style.

E Call 17 826-001.

140 x Happenings

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 139

afterdarkhappenings

Into the Night For those who work hard and want to party harder, the Kingdom’s long list of nocturnal hotspots invite you to some world-class acts and non-stop entertainment.

Friends

After rocking the party capitals around the world, an exhilarating DJ act comes to our shores to deliver a night of non-stop entertainment. WTF XII presents DJ Serafin, who hits the console at KLUB 360 at Elite Crystal Hotel. The entry to the event is charged at BD5; ladies enter for free.

The Scorpions tribute band, In Trance, comes to Bahrain to ‘rock you like a hurricane’ at Club Buffalo, Ramee California Hotel, on September 6. Be a part of this thrilling show for BD5 with free entry for the ladies. Enjoy the buffet for BD10 with a

Faith LH

free drink or take the unlimited package of BD20. The Warbler at Ramee Baisan Hotel hosts a comedy night on September 12; drop in for some hilarious acts and witty stand-up sessions.

On September 26, Bedrock, also at Ramee California Hotel, celebrates the nightclub’s third anniversary. Every guest gets a chance to win prizes and giveaways.

Mercure Grande Hotel Seef hosts a thrilling evening, featuring the emerging Iranian singer, DJ and producer from London, Babak Rahnama, on October 3.

bystanderthismonth

First Motors Media Ghabga First Motors hosted a media ghabga during the Holy Month of Ramadan at the InterContinental Regency Hotel's Al Thuraya Tent last month

Ali, Jessica, Raed, Marwa, Analyn & Lala

Francesca, Azmiya, Lala, Raed, Analyn, Nada & Jessica

Alex, Charlie & Anne

140 September 2013

Bambi & Jalal

Patrick & Raed

George & Sola

Nada & Raed

Avinash & Ashok

David & Aaron

Francesca & Azmiya

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In Tempo

DJ Paul

Raising the bar The month sees new and refurbished venues that add to Bahrain’s vibrant party scene. The Domain opens its top-floor Basque lounge, Txoko, which invites professionals from various fields for special promotions. The first 50 drinks are on the house. With revamped interiors and great entertainment, Club F1 at the Metropolitan Hotel offers a three-course set menu over the weekends with a complimentary beverage.

Live entertainment A number of female bands bring a multitude of entertainment to Bahrain’s nightlife. Kempinski Grand Hotel welcomes a Bulgarian female duo, Friends Band, to its Mezzanine Lounge this month. The five-star hotel has introduced talented saxophonist, Faith LH, at one of its more intimate venues, Boudoir. She sets a calming yet entertaining atmosphere for guests.

At Club F1, the new band Girlz Ink paints the stage hot pink with their powerful combination of music, dance and lots of glamour.

Another all-girl band takes over a popular Bahrain venue. The Harvesters Pub at Crowne Plaza hosts The Eye Candies, who prove to be a feast for the eyes and ears with their range of music and high energy performance.

Ramee Baisan International has a new in-house band Soundphoria at its English pub, The Warbler.

The Waikiki poolside bar at the Elite Resort & Spa brings in a new band called The Fusion Box to keep guests entertained with the latest hits.

Spinning new tunes Kempinski Ixir Hotel introduces a Bahraini underground house music DJ and upcoming producer, Mysterioo Arif, to Bizarre Lounge. He dishes out high energy tracks, which will keep you dancing all night long.

Dance away to the beats of DJ Ryan, the new resident at Club F1. Hailing from the Philippines, he plays ringing chartbusters night after night to a packed house.

Oktober fest Later in the month, Club F1 hosts the Oktober Fest, inviting all beer lovers on the island. Held on September 26 and 27, the fest promises a variety of fresh ale, delicious food and great entertainment.

The Gulf Hotel hosts their version of this themed attraction on October 3 and 4, bringing out the best of German food, beer and folk bands. Tickets are available at the hotel lobby and are inclusive of a lunch or dinner.

DJ Nader

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DJ Mysterioo Arif

September 2013 141

afterdarkhappenings CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN HOTEL

All That Jazz They have style, looks, talent and are an entertainment powerhouse. These ladies and their mesmerising performances are the talk of the town and a feast for your eyes.

The Eye Candies

The hottest new act in the Kingdom belongs to a versatile all-girl band that quite aptly is called The Eye Candies. Performing at Harvesters Pub at Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel, these ladies jazz up your evenings with an exciting display of music and dance.

Unlike other bands of their league, The Eye Candies steer clear from the girl-group stereotype, holding strong as a solid troupe of entertainers. This glitzy ensemble has been making waves in the media with interviews and features scattered across a number of magazines and radio stations in addition to TV appearances.

The six-member group attributes its success to their undying love for their craft and constant perseverance towards bettering it. Expect great music and a dramatic stage act at the pub.

Their performance undergoes a fluid transition from latest R&B hits to retro, jazz and the unique bossa nova beats, signature to the band. This band packs a punch in each performance complete with theatrical surprises and dance moves to enthral the audience.

The response towards them at Harvesters Pub has been more than a little encouraging. The wide appreciation is evident from the comments on their Facebook page.

Meet up with your friends, dance all night long and let this new resident band bring you the best tracks to make you party like you never have. Daily promotions on beverages are available at this English-style pub and terrace. The bar bites on offer are as popular as its cocktails.

E Call 17 531-122.

bystanderthismonth

BSTD Family Ghabga Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Duaij bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman of Special Olympics Bahrain, The Bahrain Society For Training & Development (BSTD) held a ghabga for BSTD members and their families in coordination with the Bahrain Special Olympics. The theme of the ghabga held at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa's Al Fanar Hall was 'Success Through Challenges'

Eman, Dr Ebrahim Al Dossari, Shaikh Daij & Mohammed

Ahmed, Eman, Dr Ebrahim, Ebrahim Talib & Mohammed

Ahmed & Marwa

142 September 2013

Meena & Mahrokh

Anood, Doris & Mohammed

Karan & Sherin

Dr Ebrahim, Yousif & Mohammed

A. Rahman

Nalin & Gopika

Mariam

Ali

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdarkhappenings RAME CALIFORNIA HOTEL

A New Sound

Music is what makes or breaks a nightclub. This venue has always handpicked the best talents for its stage.

In Tempo

Hailing from the UK, InTempo is the new resident band that sets the rhythm for the crowd at Club Buffalo at Ramee California Hotel in Juffair. The septet gives a fresh twist to the live entertainment scene in the Wild West-themed saloon.

The group of young musicians offers a wealth of experience with many of them having studied music to a postgraduate level and others having performed internationally. Bahrain This Month talks to Dan Batchelor, frontman and band leader, who tells us what makes InTempo one of the hottest bands in town.

“When we arrived here, we understood that this nightlife venue particularly welcomes a diverse audience. So we perform a mixture of songs that can please locals and expatriates alike,” Dan explains.

“Our sets change depending on the kind of people in the venue. So we shift from soft rock to the occasional country songs and eventually pick up the tempo with more dance numbers so people can fill the dance floor,” he says.

Regular patrons of Club Buffalo are known to have a penchant for rock and metal music. InTempo gives you a fair share of Rage Against the Machine, Linkin’ Park and Evanescence.

“We continue to expand our repertoire. In addition to new tracks, we also have older anthems,” he adds. “The real challenge is to please everyone. We want to keep them all on their toes and wondering what’s next.”

Looking to change the style of customary performances, Dan and his team are set to introduce on-stage remixes. This is your chance to watch live entertainment like you’ve never seen before.

E Call 17 826-001.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 143

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE BAISAN INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

The Warbler at Ramee Baisan International is more than a nightlife venue that is reminiscent of the streets of England. At this unique pub that boasts cobblestone pathways and several sections, it is all about entertainment. Whether you visit it for a game of pool or for a juicy steak, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.

The newest addition to the venue’s offerings is a brand-new international band. Soundphoria covers a wide range of musical genres. It is unlikely that you leave the venue without having sung along or danced to a few tracks.

With a knack of understanding the needs of the audience, the group of talented musicians can shake up the dance floor with current chart-toppers and hits of yesteryear. Having performed across the globe, the band can handle music as diverse as pop, Latino, reggaeton, rock, R&B, hip-hop, ska and funk.

What sets them apart from other in-house bands in the circuit is that Soundphoria never performs sequenced tracks.

Showmanship is what they live for. The high-energy performances have got pub-goers returning night after night for live entertainment like they’ve never seen before.

That’s not all that’s going on at The Warbler. The fun-filled Friday brunch, or Frunch as they like to call it, continues to receive outstanding footfall every week. Load up your plate with international dishes; wash down your meal with the freeflowing beverages.

The pub is also home to a number of exciting theme nights.

The food and beverage promotions are as irresistible as always.

Fun for All!

Catching up with your favourite sport or playing some pool with friends is never as much fun as it is in this English pub.

Deluxe Soundphoria

E Call 17 290-600 or 38 381-631.

bystanderthismonth

Z Club Nights The Z Club at the Pars International Hotel was buzzing during the long holiday that marked the beginning of Eid Al Fitr

Bini, Uday, Danny & Pop

The band at Z Club

Rich, June & Am

144 September 2013

Ko & Mark

Z Club staff

Sho, Danny, Nicky, Jenny & Rita

Pop & Yut

Noey & Jo-L

Anurak, Pookky & Sunny

DJ Guy

www.bahrainthismonth.com

afterdarkhappenings PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

Non-stop Entertainment A four-star hotel in Juffair has everything, from great service to neverending parties, to make your stay at the venue memorable.

Barbarossa

This month, Pars International Hotel offers dining and entertainment options that will make it hard for you to leave the venue. With international delicacies, new bands and exciting theme nights, the four-star hotel promises an invigorating experience in every visit.

Unwind at the Boomers lobby bar after a long day’s work and sample a cool glass of chardonnay or a few pints of beer with your mates. Happy hours begin as early as noon and go on until 7pm, allowing you to enjoy great food along with discounted cocktails, beers and selected wines.

The live entertainment provided by the in-house band Noty Notes blends in perfectly with the laid-back atmosphere of this nightlife venue.

Hispanic tunes Those looking for an alternative dining experience can head on to Latin Quarter. From food to decor and of course the music, it’s salsa all the way.

Colombian chef Jorge offers a diverse and authentic menu with Latin favourites. His recipes are designed for the contemporary palate and features genuine South American flavours.

Adding heat to your salsa affair is the resident band Barbarossa, which brings an electrifying fusion of Latino tunes with disco and reggae beats accompanied by visuals. During the week, the band takes turns with DJ Arvin in entertaining guests. Add a few margaritas to this and you have a night to remember.

E Call 17 814-777.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 145

Narcotic scents Eau Moheli is the latest addition to the Floral Water collection of fragrances from Diptyque. It pays tribute to ylang-ylang and offers a unique interpretation of the exotic note. Never before has ylangylang been used as a major note.

Available at Al Hawaj outlets.

Deep waters

What’s New Edited by Maryam Toorani

The charmer

Inspired by one of the world’s most popular diving destinations, the water resistant BlackReef sports watch collection is a tribute to divers everywhere. Massive, robust and masculine, it is the ultimate diving watch.

Available at A La Mode outlets.

Just Cavalli For Him is bold, masculine and spontaneous — a lesson in style and seduction. The fresh leathery wood composition boasts a note of vetiver wood that gives an earthy and slightly smoky quality to the fragrance.

Available at leading retailers.

Fairytale fashion The brand-new collection from Hobbs captures the spirit of the season with breezy, whimsical pieces. Be the first to get your hands on the latest trends.

Available at Hobbs outlets.

Fun packing Get your kids ready for school with Gap’s newly launched collection of backpacks, lunch boxes and rollers. Let style make its way into the school grounds this year.

Available at Gap outlets.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 147

marketplace

ASIA JEWELLERS

It’s About Time!

Elegant design and sophisticated technical details define this collection of luxury sports watches, which sets new standards for the high-end automatic timepiece market.

Officine Panerai, in recent years, has seen a spike in popularity, becoming an established name in men’s luxury watches. The brand’s latest offering is the Luminor 1950 3 Days Chrono Flyback range. This is a chronograph with a flyback function and automatic movement with a power reserve of three days.

Available in a sports version in steel and in a showy version in red gold, the new chronograph is the first to be made by Officine Panerai using the new P.9100 calibre, developed entirely in-house.

The watch’s flyback function is controlled by a push-button at eight o’clock which instantly returns the chronograph hands to zero and simultaneously restarts it. The design makes it easier to read time with the minutes and seconds hands positioned centrally on the main dial and in different colours.

Structural finesse The 1930s’ Panerai structure of the dial has been retained to ensure maximum visibility even in very low lighting conditions.

The structure is a combination of two superimposed plates, the upper one being perforated with corresponding markers thereby displaying the luminance of the Super-LumiNova material.

The watch comes in a 44mm case, which is water-resistant for up to 100 metres. The back of the case contains the

148 September 2013

12-sided case-back with a sapphire window at the centre, which reveals the structure of the signature P.9100 movement.

This sophisticated design is marked by numerous details such as a vertical clutch, a column wheel and two spring barrels connected in series. A rotor winds the springs of the barrels and a variable inertia balance oscillates at 28,800 alternations per hour.

Cutting-edge design The Luminor 1950 3 Days Chrono Flyback and the Luminor 1950 3 Days Chrono Flyback Oro Rosso (PAM00525) are part of the brand’s contemporary collection. The steel model is supplied with a black leather strap and the red gold one with the Panerai personalised alligator strap and an 18-carat polished red gold buckle. The straps can easily be changed by using a button fitted in the lug of the watch.

With an excellent dial design, a thoroughly impressive movement and a feature set that is practical, legible and easy to use, this range shows Office Panerai at its best. Often referred to as ‘art in motion’, these pieces have become popular with the most discerning watch enthusiasts the world over.

E Call 17 535-344.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE ONE

Shades of Grey This home furnishing store brings out the strong shades of grey, making it a current rage this season in the world of interior design.

The popularity of grey tones in home decor and furnishing is here to stay. Experts believe the craze for this most accepted colour scheme will continue into 2014. Treading this realm with its line of premium products is furniture house THE One, located in Al A’ali mall.

Choose warm greys (yellow-based), cool greys (blue based) or a combination of both.

Charcoal and smoke THE One’s ‘Dark and Handsome’ living room look takes you through sombre spaces that exude a sense of understated luxury. A simple way to recreate the trend is to blend the monochrome base of your living space with silver accents.

Make sure the accessories contrast with clean, straight lines; add chunky pieces that stand out.

Another way to make this look work for your living room is by treating a wall to a grey and charcoal striped paint effect.

Continue with the theme in your seating choices with a large, three-seater sofa and a comfortable grey-striped footstool. You can then add a ‘salt and pepper’ rug to tie the room together.

Complement this arrangement with hefty arm chairs and a trunk-style side table.

Bright art pieces and lamps act as the finishing touch.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

No place like home THE One is a destination for quality furniture and statement pieces and a provider of exclusivity and timeless designs.

Started by Thomas Lundgren in 1996 in Abu Dhabi, the outlet has established a strong reputation for premium interiors with fifteen stores in seven countries across the Middle East.

The team at THE One believes that the world doesn’t need another retailer; instead we need a better world. This is why the company offers many eco-friendly products that support disadvantaged communities worldwide.

E Call 17 587-178.

September 2013 149

marketplace VIVA

Closer to the Stars Do you want to fulfil your life-long dream of experiencing the true glory of one of the most celebrated football clubs in the world? Here is what you need to do.

Coinciding with the new football season, VIVA has reintroduced its Manchester United Membership Card (MUMC) in a new, stylish look. Loaded with incredible benefits and truly once-ina-lifetime experiences, the card gives fans of the Red Devils an exclusive opportunity to win fantastic rewards.

These include a trip with the team to watch them play in Europe, attend live matches at Old Trafford, meet the new manager David Moyes and many more ‘money can’t buy’ opportunities.

True to its promise of making dreams come true, the telecom operator brings football fans closer to the celebrated club, with extraordinary privileges bundled up in a package.

Valid throughout the 2013-14 football season the membership scheme is offered for BD29 per season and has been made available at all 18 of the VIVA retail outlets.

As a member of the MUMC programme, fans will receive an invitation to become a part of the Manchester United Fan Club in Bahrain in addition to free copies (two per season) of the official members’ magazine.

A complimentary subscription to the VIVA Manchester United SMS service keeps fans informed about live matches with instant scores and text commentary. For diehard Manchester United fans, who do not want to miss out on a single moment of action, this free SMS service will enable them to stay updated at all times.

Manchester United Membership Card

Additionally, members will be entitled to an exclusive opportunity to meet and greet club legends and get autographs.

Priority access and invites to all local VIVA and Manchester United events are an added bonus.

Members can enjoy 10 per cent off beverages and food at Old Trafford’s Red Café and half price on tickets for museum and stadium tours. Members can also avail 10 per cent discount at the football club’s online store.

In celebration of its exclusive partnership with Manchester United, VIVA recently connected with the local chapter of the supporters’ club and other football fans. To mark the start of the English Premier League Season 2013-14, special screenings of the football club’s action-packed games were organised.

E Call 124 or email www.viva.com.bh.

VIVA hosts special screening of Manchester United games

150 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

THE CHILDREN’S PLACE

Play in Style Bahrain now has a new fashion destination for kids. Find clothing and accessories which combine comfort and value.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Children’s Place, a kids’ fashion brand, has opened its doors at Bahrain City Centre. The store showcases head-to-toe looks for boys and girls sized newborn to 14.

Offering pieces from casual basics to comfortable dressy wear, it has all the necessary items to fill a child’s wardrobe with updated styles. You can find good quality clothes and cool accessories and shoes at affordable costs.

The latest trends can be spotted in the collection in a broad palette of colours. The cuts and materials used in the pieces suit kids’ lifestyles as The Children’s Place focuses on creating something that is both comfortable and practical. Aside from an extensive selection of outfits, the outlet boasts everyday essentials that mothers will find useful. Visit the new store for a fun-filled shopping experience for the little ones.

E Call 16 686-227.

September 2013 151

marketplace FRASER SUITES

The Smart Way You can now book a serviced apartment in the heart of the city at the touch of a button owing to the launch of a new mobile website.

When juggling between changing time zones, nearing deadlines and business targets, having control of your hotel reservation on your phone can be a breath of fresh air. Fraser Suites has launched a smartphone-optimised website that lets clients book their stay well in advance of their arrival in Bahrain.

The website, with its user-friendly and easy-to-navigate interface, allows efficient browsing and instantly gives information about the availability of accommodation, the tariff, facilities and special promotions.

Customers have the added convenience of being able to connect directly with the property through the ‘click to call’ function along with the Fraser World feature available on company website. This is an exclusive guest recognition programme specially designed by the hospitality group to complement your travel and living lifestyle with a host of exceptional privileges.

“With the change in consumer preferences, it is essential that we adapt and respond to their needs,” says Olivier Briand, general manager of Fraser Suites. “The launch of this site is marked with a special 20 per cent discount offer.”

Available on all smartphones with HTML5 specifications, such as the iPhone, Android and Blackberry, the link provides easy access to the group’s social media platforms. You can follow Fraser Suites on Facebook and Twitter.

Located in the heart of the city with direct access to Seef Mall, Fraser Suites is an easy stroll from leading businesses, corporate venues, designer stores, gourmet restaurants and entertainment options. E Call 17 569-333 or visit bahrain.frasershospitality.com.

GULF EYE CENTER

A Clear View Developments in laser eye surgery are creating a stir. Bahrain This Month talks to an expert who will help you make the right choice.

A number of corrective measures are available to help you regain perfect vision. A popular and more lasting option is surgery.

The three most widely practised ophthalmological procedures are laser, lasik and lasek.

However, choosing the right one for you can be tricky.

A qualified eye specialist should guide you in making this choice. Consultant ophthalmologist and retinal specialist at the Gulf Eye Center, Dr Samer J Bashir, explains the difference between the three procedures.

“The practice of radial keratotomy is simply inducing intentional cuts to the cornea, typically with a laser. This worked fine for a decade until it showed signs of regression or the return of poor vision,” Dr Samer explains. “It occurs due to the natural healing process of the cornea. With lasik, short for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, the wound is tucked inside the cornea by creating a flap that keeps it adjusted for a much longer period of time.”

The third process is to apply the laser directly into the cornea and then to place a contact lens to act like a flap for about a week. This is called lasek or laser epithelial keratomileusis.

Depending upon the results of a series of exams, a patient is prescribed the suitable procedure or a combination of them.

The birth of the idea of using laser to treat retinal problems dates back to 1864, when it was first noticed that staring at the sun induces burns in the inner eye. However, it wasn’t until World War II that eye surgeons noticed change in vision or refraction, depending upon injuries to the cornea. E Call 17 239-171 or visit www.gdsceye.com.

152 September 2013

Dr Samer J Bashir

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ROCHE BOBOIS

Maximising the Minimal

Blogger modular sofa

Icone floor lamp

Known for its urbane designs, the company offers furniture pieces with seemingly multiple personalities, often resulting in their own unique character.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Roche Bobois is committed to respecting refined materials and the environment around us. Often taking inspiration from natural elements, its designers strive to optimise the functionality of a piece, keeping the structure to a minimum and aesthetics intact.

Here are some products from its latest collection.

Blogger modular sofa This firmly held design fits the contemporary urban environment.

Its minimalist shape and single-coloured finish make it equally flexible for a small city apartment or a spacious hall.

Upholstered in Melopee fabric (100 per cent cotton), it is perfect for all seasons and easy to maintain. Its Monoblocpadded seat and back are shaped out of HR foam, which keeps it light yet sturdy.

The body is made of solid wood, plywood and particle board; an XL elastic strap is used for suspension. The piece is available in other dimensions as well. You can choose from a straight sofa, an armchair or an ottoman.

Marina bed

design, reducing the clutter of your interior layout. Its base and legs are shaped to provide maximum stability and are made of steel in a lacquered finish. The cross bar running under the glass top uses lacquered aluminium.

Marina bed A light and comfortable shape, this bed is available in various sizes. The frame is made of beech in walnut veneered laminated panels with its top upholstered in fine quality leather. The headboard can be adjusted both manually and electronically.

Night stands are integrated into the main structure with an optional lighting feature. Available in black, white, havane, beige, brique and mango, the features are all entirely upholstered in leather.

E Call 17 582-901.

Icone floor lamp In spite of being confined to a corner, this piece would make its presence felt throughout the room. This lamp, available in a wide range of colours, can both add the pop factor in a living space and be used to tie it together.

The base is ceramic and the shade made out of cotton. It is available in alabaster copper, ebony, terre and graphite.

Axel dining table This extendable dining table boasts a clean and uncomplicated

Axel dining table

September 2013 153

marketplace THE CLOSETS

Made to Order

If cookie-cutter cupboards and kitchens make you depressed every time you plan the interior of your house, then here’s a store that offers you something truly priceless.

As you set out to build your dream abode with every inch of it containing nothing less than the best, you can get confused with the countless options available on the market. Ideas and advice pour in from all quarters, but your bespoke home remains out of reach. Not anymore.

Those who seek exclusivity and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure their homely possessions are truly unique, step inside The Closets. With four outlets spread across the Kingdom, the newest having recently opened in Hamala, this company brings together premium home storage solutions from global experts.

The store designs, builds and installs customised closets, kitchens, home offices, laundries and pantries. A fine selection of finishes, accessories and hardware is offered as well.

All closets are available in real hardwood with alder, maple and oak finishes and stain colours. Providing stylish sliding shelves to chic walk-ins, their expertise lies in personalised service and sourcing the best materials in addition to remarkable technical detail and workmanship.

“We take great pride in the level of commitment and service that we provide. Our history is a reflection of our clients’ trust in our work,” says Ali Al Haddad, managing director at The Closets. “The sleek and sophisticated fixtures will add functionality to your space and lend a personal touch.”

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

ALOSRA SUPERMARKET

Only the Best Committed to serving premium quality products, this supermarket enjoys a reputation for responsibly sourcing fresh produce from around the world.

Serving the Kingdom with quality produce for over three decades, Alosra supermarkets provide local and exotic items at great value. Part of the BMMI group, the store’s primary focus is on delivering quality over quantity, boasting a wide range of carefully selected products.

“We have always focused on offering the most premium quality products in the kingdom, to satisfy all the needs and tastes of our diverse base of loyal customers” said Pavlos Babiolakis, Alosra’s buying manager.

“This quality is evident in products such as the 100 per cent New Zealand lamb and beef, which we have purchased from farmers who operate with a proven record of animal welfare, food safety and quality.” The meat comes from healthily reared animals and is free of hormones or any artificial substances.

“Another main focus is to provide great customer service. We adopt a rigid philosophy of continuous improvement. This is the foundation of our working culture.” Pavlos notes.

The organisation has a strong, socially responsible character. This was well-illustrated during Ramadan when the supermarket partnered with the Palm Association to support its ‘Feed a Family’ programme.

Alosra also provides work-placements to industry project students at the Bahrain Polytechnic to support learning and development opportunities.

E Call 17 697-558.

154 September 2013

www.bahrainthismonth.com

LALABELLA

All About You There is so much that goes into planning a wedding. If choosing the right cake or venue is something you don’t want to worry about, it could be time to hire a professional.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Wedding planners are no longer a luxury; they are a necessity.

From big receptions in grand ballrooms to intimate home celebrations, each occasion has unique demands and styles that need to be satisfied. For the stressed out bride-to-be, LalaBella specialises in delivering a fairytale affair, minus the hassle.

“The tiniest detail can often become the most important part of your big day,” says Nahla Al Mahmood, founder and general manager of LalaBella. “We guide brides through each step of the process to ensure all the important elements and details are included, and in the right way.”

LalaBella offers a wide range of services, from concept design and inspiration to bridal consultation for hair, make-up and the wedding dress. From customised furniture and accessories, floral decorations and bouquets to graphic design and menu selection, this wedding planner has you covered.

“Even such things as the lighting set-up and the flavour of the food need to be fine-tuned to the wishes of the bride and her groom,” adds Nahla. “The wedding day is a unique moment in a woman’s life, a day to be celebrated, and that requires all aspects to be treated with respect.”

Nahla is the first Bahraini wedding planner to be certified by the Wedding Planning Institute of USA. Her boutique offers flowers, gifts and chocolates, as well, for all occasions.

LalaBella also help you plan dinner receptions, henna parties, baby showers and birthdays. E Call 17 471-111.

September 2013 155

marketplace BOCONCEPT

Smart Design Those who prefer customised furniture in their homes can now create a new living space that is both modern and functional.

Since its inception in 1952, Danish furniture house BoConcept has created high-quality products featuring modern designs.

Tapping the demands of city dwellers who want bespoke interiors and optimum functionality, the brand delivers designer pieces at affordable prices.

Still, incorporating shades of your personality into your home can be a daunting task. BoConcept makes this feasible with its team of experts which takes your personal taste and available space into account. It is an added benefit that the company’s range of unique, modular furniture offers unlimited possibilities that fit your interiors perfectly.

Get help Perhaps you need more space or need help choosing a new colour scheme. While you might have an idea of what you want, calling for expert advice can make it work for your home.

Using interior decorating software, the team at BoConcept can draw a complete plan of your home, room and even a piece of furniture. These customised three-dimensional drawings can help you envision your new living space.

As consumers, we are spoilt for choice, which sometimes makes it difficult and time consuming to find the right piece of furniture. Now you can book a 60- or 90-minute home visit from a BoConcept interior consultant, who will measure the area, listen to your needs and help you optimise space and style. The objective of the furnishing house is to achieve a design that works for each individual according to his/her requirements.

Check out the entire range of its products at the BoConcept outlet in Seef. E Call 17 564-319 or visit www.boconcept.com.

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

Feel at Ease

Boasting a tranquil setting unlike any other in the Kingdom, this spa in the Diplomatic Area takes a Zen approach to rejuvenation.

156 September 2013

Located in the heart of the city, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Spa is an extraordinary space that provides an urban retreat inspired

by Zen philosophy. Spread over two floors, it features a lot more than a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.

The centre promises a wholly indulgent experience by offering a mix of traditional treatments and contemporary skincare procedures. Fifteen treatment rooms are dedicated to catering to every need of the client. From body and foot massages to facials and aroma baths to Vichy showers, this resort of wellness has it all.

Eight types of massage, including Swedish and Thai, are on offer.

The premises of The Diplomat Radisson Blu Spa contain a calming indoor pool, wooden bridge, flowing waterfall in the women’s section. Additionally it has three temperature controlled outdoor pools that both men and women can enjoy.

The aroma therapy candles reinforce the feeling of wellness and rejuvenation.

In addition to the spa treatments, you can also engage in a workout session at the in-house fitness centre that houses top-ofthe-line equipment. For a coached approach, the five-star hotel’s team of personal trainers is made available for expert advice.

You could even try your hand at a game of racquetball, table tennis or squash. Additionally, the centre has a tennis court with sports equipment available for hire.

Whether you are an overworked professional or a sports enthusiast, indulge in a treatment package or a strenuous workout session at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Spa to rejuvenate your body and refresh your senses.

E Call 17 531-666.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Modernistic Kitchens When it comes to style, it’s safe to say that the Italians do it best. This applies to the creation of top-notch furniture as much as anything else.

An in-demand worldwide kitchen supplier, Aran Cucine offers its clientele supreme quality and modern designs. Always in search of innovative and original solutions, the Italian company owes its popularity to its ability to consistently create and renew lines without diluting the high standards that underpin its craftsmanship.

In the field since 1962, the brand has always viewed quality as its priority and is highly reputed for its kitchen designs.

Operating in over 120 countries, Aran introduces an innovative, functional and elegant range of premium and top-of-the-line Italian modular kitchens at competitive prices.

In association with Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro, the brand offer consumers in Bahrain premium quality Italian design at affordable prices, breaking the myth of high costs and extended delivery timelines. With the right balance between aesthetics and technology, these kitchens come to the market after a lot of research that keeps modern living needs in mind.

In Bahrain, Aran partners with Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro as they share the same artistic sense in cost-effective clutter-free kitchens.

Aran boasts exceptional accessories, which embody the trendy and the traditional alike. Each model is built to optimise the available space, so kitchens, besides being beautiful, are functional. The company continually seeks to improve their products in terms of modern tastes and practicality, be it with the paint, the hinges, the lacquered and wooden drawers or the light bars.

Volare is Aran’s luxury line that has attracted critical acclaim thanks to its unusual rounded working area. This collection looks delightful and is functional.

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

Add-on products Along with cabinets, they also provide add-on services like worktops in Corian, granite, and engineered stones; as well as built-in appliances from renowned international brands.

More than luxury Volare is Aran’s luxury and contemporary range and has attracted critical acclaim, thanks to its rather unusual rounded working area. This collection not only looks delightful, but also is very functional.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

September 2013 157

marketplace INTERCOL

Fun, Fast and Affordable The latest member of the Nokia Lumia family is the brand’s biggest smartphone to date.

Upgrade to the big-screen experience.

AMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Early Learning Your child’s future is for the most part determined in the first six years of his or her life.

Experts continue to stress the importance of choosing the right pre-school.

158 September 2013

The Nokia Lumia 625 combines a 4.7-inch display with 4G Internet access to bring a premium entertainment and communication experience at an affordable price. It offers highspeed connectivity to a wide audience with a super-sensitive LCD screen. “With our largest screen to date, the Lumia 625 is a perfect example of how Nokia delivers leading smartphone innovation and experiences at every price point,” says Jo Harlow, executive vice president at Nokia Smart Devices.

Powered by the latest version of Windows Phone 8 and including the Nokia Lumia Amber update, the phone’s core features include a 1.2GHz Dual Core Snapdragon S4 and a 512MB RAM. The memory is expandable to a 64GB SD card. A major bonus is its five megapixel auto-focus camera with LED flash at 1080 pixels at 30 frames per second.

Leading maps and location experiences from HERE, providing free maps, turn-by-turn navigation and public transport guidance are offered. Windows Phone 8 provisions include Xbox Live, Microsoft Office and 7GB of online SkyDrive storage. The faster mobile fun comes with access to more than 165,000 apps including Vimeo, Temple Run and WhatsApp. Its inclusion of Internet Explorer 10 makes it ideal for viewing videos, games, and other content. Nokia has also teamed with Coloud to create BOOM headphones that combine audio prowess with excellent value.

The Nokia Lumina 625 is available in a range of colours including orange, yellow, bright green, white and black with an array of changeable shells enabling easy personalisation. Nokia Lumia products are distributed by Intercol in the Kingdom.

E Call 17 727-177 or email nokia@intercol.com.

Using play-based learning methods in structured programmes, AMA International School-Bahrain (AMAIS) helps your little ones develop intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially.

In addition to learning the basics like alphabets and numbers, children can familiarise themselves with important social skills.

These include becoming skilled at how to be independent, how to share and how to follow directions.

AMAIS’s pre-school plan aims to enhance confidence through activities that will help children become problem solvers and lifelong learners. Independent exploration, structured activities and hands-on learning are offered to help kids advance in introductory literacy, mathematics, science and communication.

A major objective of the programme is to promote self-help skills and self-esteem. In preparation for later studying, the school builds an interest in learning by the little ones.

Imagination is another important aspect; the institute uses various methods to help encourage and stimulate creativity.

A healthy dose of running, jumping and dancing keeps them active as well.

Headed by a multilingual teaching staff with professional backgrounds in childhood education, AMAIS offers hands-on experience to boost a child’s learning abilities. Activities are facilitated on a daily basis for small and large groups to encourage curiosity and support self-directed exercises.

Parents are kept up to date through observation-based assessments. These evaluations track children’s progress towards developmental milestones and monitor how ready they are for kindergarten. E Call 17 595-161 or visit www.amais.edu.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Dr Prashant

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Are You at Risk?

Bahrain This Month sits down with Dr Prashant Prabhakar to learn about metabolic syndrome, a health condition that has been getting a lot of attention in recent years.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A condition that is rumoured to become as widespread as the common cold has got medical experts around the world talking.

The question is, why haven’t we heard about it before and, more importantly, how do you know you have it?

Metabolic syndrome, although not a disease in itself, is a group of characteristics that could lead to a number of chronic health issues, including severe cardiac conditions. Also known as Syndrome X, risk factors include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels and abdominal fat.

“You need not experience all of these symptoms to have it.

However, a person with one characteristic or more is likely to have the rest. You can be diagnosed with the syndrome if you have three or more traits,” explains Dr Prashant, consultant cardiologist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital.

Red alerts to look out for are obesity and a blood sugar level of 100-112mg/dl (after fasting). Other signs of trouble include increased blood pressure or high levels of triglyceride.

As in all diseases, there are several factors that increase the likelihood of acquiring metabolic syndrome. They include insulin

resistance, menopause, smoking, rheumatic disease, psychiatric illnesses and a family history of diabetes. The good news is that prevention is possible.

“The important thing is to keep up an active and healthy lifestyle. Walking more than 30 minutes a day, controlled blood sugar levels and maintaining a nutrition plan, like the ‘dash diet’ that keeps hypertension in check, can really have a positive effect on you,” the doctor notes.

The dash diet, recommended by Dr Prashant, requires you to eat no more than 2,400mg of sodium per day, four to five servings of vegetables and two to three servings of low fat dairy products. All foods must contain less than 25 per cent total fat per serving. Restricting the overall dietary carbohydrate intake is more effective in reducing the most common symptoms of metabolic syndrome.

“The first line of treatment is a change of lifestyle. If in three to six months remedying risk factors proves insufficient, then drug treatment is required,” he adds.

E Call 17 812-000.

September 2013 159

marketplace HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS

Excellence Rewarded A year into its launch, this hotel is rapidly developing a sound reputation and garnering accolades that speak for its high standards.

Opened in August 2012, Holiday Inn Express Bahrain celebrated its first anniversary last month.

The hospitality venture recorded a successful first year by establishing a strong customer base and receiving awards for its excellent service.

The 274-room property received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for 2013 and now ranks amongst the top 10 per cent of all business hotels worldwide.

The factors on which it was judged include services, pricing and quality together with other key hospitality benchmarks.

The hotel staff and management express their gratitude to those who voted for them. “It is a great honour for a hotel which is such a young establishment and which is still in the process of bettering itself,” says Mohammed Assar, director for sales and marketing at Holiday Inn Express.

“We’re aware of the fact that very few limited service hotels have been recognised and awarded by TripAdvisor and are greatly motivated by this.”

Holiday Inn Express is equally popular with business and leisure travellers, offering comfort, convenience and value for money. As part of the InterContinental Hotels Group, it currently ranks as the best in business class hotels across the Middle East and Africa region.

Located only 15 minutes from Bahrain International Airport, the hotel features a 24-hour selfservice business corner and kiosk, three meeting rooms, free high-speed Internet connection, a gym, restaurant and lounge bar.

E Call 17 313-030.

INTERCOL

Accurate Readings Often characterised by excessively increased blood sugar levels due to lack of insulin, diabetes is a chronic, lifelong condition that needs constant care.

160 September 2013

The new Accu-Chek Performa has been designed to give users added confidence in their blood glucose testing. The device offers great performance due to its intelligent safety check, helping ensure that each test result is correct.

The Performa technology enables a precise interaction of the measuring device, test strip and safety chip. With each measurement, the system checks various factors that may influence the result and reacts accordingly. Amongst them are under-dosing detection, temperature and humidity compensation, a strip expiry check, a strip damage check and hypo warning.

Accu-Chek Performa was developed in response to extensive international research with customers and delivers features that are most important to them. These include a small blood sample size, a test time of just five seconds and alternative site testing capability. It can even sound a test reminder up to four times a day.

Many people with diabetes and their healthcare professionals actively review blood glucose results and evaluate trends in order to improve long-term management of blood glucose levels. The metre on this equipment provides data averaging over periods of seven, 14, and 30 days. Additionally, it stores the results of 500 tests in its memory.

The brand also features Accu-Chek Multiclix, the first lancing (blood sampling) device with an innovative drum containing six lancets. The load-and-go drum containing six preloaded lancets provides you with increased safety and hygiene.

The unique Clixmotion technology ensures a vibration-free forward and backward motion, minimising the painful side-toside movement of the lancet.

E Call 17 727-600 or email medics@intercol.com.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Practical Spaces

A good office design combines form and function, which not only impresses your clients but also increases productivity levels.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

For 40 years, the Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro (YBYF) furniture division has been providing customers with extraordinary care, exceptional value and quality products. Having started as a department for importing pieces of furniture, the company has today developed into a design outfit that installs offices, meeting areas, schools and libraries to suit any requirements.

The branch offers other innovative interior designing services that include organisation, space partition and customised solutions using versatile, functional and simple methods. The company describes an office as a place to live and not just to work. The setting needs to be inspired by elements of nature with smooth and light lines.

Various workplace requirements of the present day make practicality vital. Through thorough research and planning, the YBYF team implements a creative furnishing system designed to fully complement production needs.

Another element considered by the team is the drastic change in the social use of office spaces. Meetings, both public and private, are now held in a more relaxed setting. To facilitate this, softer shapes are being introduced to the workplace. These include surfaces with rounded edges that can accommodate numerous configurations. E Call 17 408-111.

September 2013 161

marketplace GENPRISE

A Shining Light Learn more about energy-efficient lighting technologies that allow you to enjoy an environment-friendly life, at home or in your workplace.

As you coast along the King Faisal Highway at night, you may have slowed your car a little, leaned forward and glanced up as you pass the twin towers of the Bahrain World Trade Centre (BWTC).

Sporting a vibrant, unique and eye-catching array of colours and patterns, both towers shine bright amongst the multitude of buildings that inhabit the Diplomatic Area. This is a clear statement of intent from BWTC’s owners to become the most talked about and well-known building in the Kingdom.

Genprise, a local electrical and lighting company, is responsible for the transformation of the lighting on the building’s façade; it is the company’s flagship project in the Kingdom. A further phase to enhance the lighting is also planned. The façade lighting renovation of Al Salaam Tower, now known as the headquarters for BisB, is another development under the company’s growing portfolio.

Having opened a brand-new state-of-the-art lighting showroom in Adliya earlier this year, Genprise leads the way with energy-efficient LED lighting. From a bedroom wall light to the entire façade of a 40-plus storey building, Genprise has already proved that LED lighting is an environmentally-friendly option both at home at work. As power-hungry gadgets increase, so do our energy bills; LEDs significantly lower power requirements. With a lifetime of more than 50,000 hours in most cases, you can be safe in the knowledge that you needn’t worry about changing bulbs every few months.

Visit the Genprise showroom opposite Don Vito’s Café in Adliya and let their team talk you through the benefits of LED and how you can do your bit to protect the environment.

E Call 17 311-442 or email info@genpriseco.com.

bystanderthismonth

Oman Air Media Ghabga Oman Air hosted a media ghabga during the Holy month of Ramadan at the Al Safir Hotel's Ramadan Tent in Juffair

Habib & Eric

Ajit, Rajesh & Ravi

162 September 2013

Dixon, Charles, Ahmed, Nawaf, Rayan, Candida, Tariq, Eric & Suhaib

Sonu, Monu & Kuttan

Dixon, Charles, Candida, Jennifer & Eric

Nawaf, Tariq & Eric

Athar & Roshan

Faizan & Aison

Khalid

DJ Paresh

Ahmed

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain 44 | Bahrain 55 | Bahrain sport 1 | Bahrain sport 2

EXCLUSIVE AGENT:

FOR YOUR ADVERTISING: +973 17 564 250 +973 33 555 888 Email: bahraintv@groupplus.bh

www.groupplusmedia.com |

groupplus

LIKE US

bystanderthismonth

Qatar Airways Ghagba The Qatar Airways Corporate Communications Department held a ghabga for a number of guests during Ramadan.

The ghabga was held at the Al Khayma Tent, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel & Spa

Stacey & Kartik

Khalid, Nader, Cherry & Ifthard

Guests with Qatar Airways staff members

Yasser & Mohsin

Abdul & Hassan

Alison

Elite Seef Residence Iftar The Elite Seef Residence & Hotel hosted a media Iftar during the Holy Month of Ramadan at the hotel's IL Giardino Restaurant

Avinash, Sonee & Prasanna

Avinash, Sonee & Prasanna with members of the media & staff members

PICO Staff Iftar PICO company held a staff Iftar during the Holy Month of Ramadan at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Ali, Faheeda, Shantelle, Necel & Rommel

Isa, Adnan, Mustafa, Mohammed, Ali & Su

Paul

Lanvin

PICO staff at the event

164 September 2013

Ferdi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

winwin

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

1

Who runs Designer Outlet? ___________________________

2

Where can you find a desert symphony? ___________________________

3

Who is the Sri Lankan ambassador? ___________________________

4

Where will Lizzie Curious be performing? ___________________________

Hint: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Jangir Alam Chowdahary Second Place : Sonny Gonzales Third Place : Ramil Escabarte

Last month’s solutions

1.

1. Abdulla Mani 2. HopeShip Bahrain 3. Dato’ Abd Samad 4. Germany 5. Liam Hunt 6. The Peugeot 4008

5

6

Who runs The British School of Bahrain? ___________________________

7. Patrick de Groot

Which car did we test drive? ___________________________

Ad Seek

8. Varghese Kurian 9. Foresee 10. At The K Hotel

2.

1. Al Arisha 2. JVC/Gajria Electronics 3. Golden Peacock Asian Restaurant

7

8

9 10

Where can you find Masso restaurant? ___________________________ Who talks about 100 Great Books? ___________________________ What is our app this month? ___________________________ Who celebrates their third anniversary? ___________________________

www.bahrainthismonth.com

4. Viva

Name:

Address:

3.

Telephone:

Email:

cpr:

Entry deadline is September 15. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

4.

September 2013 165

tarotscopethismonth

VIRGO

July 21 – August 21 September will see all your effort, hard work and financial outlays finally come together as a longterm project is completed to your satisfaction.

Virgos are a difficult bunch to please so you should try to enjoy the fruits of your labour without looking for a flip side. If something bad is going to happen then worrying about it will only make matters worse. A better appreciation of what’s good in your life will allow you to deal more effectively with the negative times.

The truth is that right now you have a lot to be happy about and you should remember that.

Card of the Month — The Queen of Wands For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Libra September 23 – October 21 September will leave you feeling a little unsettled about the future direction of a current relationship and may even force you to question a partner’s motives and commitment to you. It could very well be that a past indiscretion still rests heavily on your heart and fresh suspicions could bring a painful event back to the fore to haunt you. The best way out would be discussion; so, if you are at all concerned or unsure, confront the person in question — but try to keep your temper.

If you don’t keep your cool it could end up backfiring so make the most of your advantage while you have it.

Card of the Month — The King of Swords

Scorpio October 22 – November 21 The pain of separation cuts deep and there could well be a trauma in your romance waiting just around the corner. Coming as a surprise will make the whole affair even harder to deal with. The best course of action to take in the short-term is simply to step back from everything and assess where you might go from here, if the break-up proves to be final. The last thing you want to embroil yourself in is a heated exchange.

On an upbeat note, a friend could turn out to be a lot more in the weeks to come, leading to some serious soul-searching on your part.

Card of the Month — The Four of Swords

166 September 2013

Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 How do you feel about life at the moment? A little disillusioned perhaps? That could well be a symptom of the lack of drive and ambition in your present working environment. Still, there’s no need to feel so down because the opportunity for change and progress are within your grasp — you only need to focus a little more on what you really want.

Financially, the prospects are also positive as you could find rewards by utilising a particular skill.

Part of the problem is self-belief. If you can overcome this then the omens are good overall.

Card of the Month — The Tower

Capricorn ­December 22 – January 18 A relationship will enter a fulfilling and buoyant period as a partner’s good news impacts on you with favourable results. There could even be the possibility of an unplanned trip overseas. On the work front, the sense of dissatisfaction and general lack of enthusiasm you may have been experiencing for the first few months of the year will gradually dissipate. Either a change of job or more challenging tasks will present themselves to you.

Those of you thinking about a trip overseas could also benefit from making a quick decision rather than labouring over what you should do.

Card of the Month — The Hermit

Aquarius ­January 19 – ­February 20 An ambitious lady and a dark secret each touch your life this month as you enter what could well be the most unusual period of 2013. Doubts concerning the validity of a woman’s comments fire your curiosity. This could lead you into some private snooping, which concludes with the unearthing of sensitive information about the person in question. Also, a family secret is suddenly revealed in a heated argument causing much embarrassment. Who said life was boring?

It is going to lead to a number of awkward questions fired in your direction and you may need to be on top of your game to deal with them. Who said life was boring?

Card of the Month — The Ten of Cups

pisces February 21 – March 20 You’re feeling a little down and in desperate need of having your batteries recharged after several trying weeks of very difficult pressures, both at home and in the work place. Try to book something up quickly and get away with a partner because you really need it, especially since you will have a few more challenges to deal with before the year is out. If you’re in good shape mentally then it will make whatever comes in the next few months much easier to face effectively and successfully.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Cups

Aries March 21 – April 20 The book of life has opened at a pleasant page for you this month and sees you entering a positive and rewarding chapter of your life. Many changes have taken place and there are more yet to come as you prepare yourself for some turbulent but exciting times ahead. The only point of concern could be in a partner’s current state of health as stress and worry seem to wipe away the more fun-loving side of his or her personality.

You need to help them unwind a little and perhaps start by shouldering some of the general every day responsibilities.

Card of the Month — The King of Swords

www.bahrainthismonth.com

advertisersindex Taurus ­April 21 – May 20 The long-term future of a relationship hangs in the balance as loyalties are split within your family. The chances are that finding an answer to your dilemma will take a lot of hard work, and there is little point in pursuing a solution unless you are committed to the endeavour from the outset. A loved one could surprise you on the 10th, so, to avoid disappointment, don’t make any plans. It might be a welcome relief to an otherwise stressful September.

On a more positive note finances could improve significantly this month and an investment will be completed before the 29th.

Card of the Month — The Magician

Gemini May 21 – June 20 Turbulent times lie ahead in the workplace for those of you born under this star sign as your ambitious side comes to the fore. You attempt to battle with an opponent in a promotion war that looks set to dominate most of September. Put your best foot forward, keep a clear and objective head and all the advantages will fall in your favour. Just ensure that you are prepared for a rough ride as your main rival for the vacant post is not the kind of character to give up easily.

It might be a good idea to do your homework so that you are not left unprepared.

Card of the Month — The Six of Cups

cancer June 21 – July 20 Romance is in the air this month as the flutter of cupid’s wings look set to ripple the waters and reward those of you searching for love with the opportunity to embark upon a fresh, exciting relationship. If you are in a relationship there’s no need to feel left out! The signs also bode well as you develop stronger bonds with a current partner. The only note of caution goes out to the less scrupulous among you, as you might be tempted to stray without commitment.

Be careful or things could develop into something much more serious and you won’t be able to deflect the resulting fallout.

Card of the Month — The Page of Cups

LEO August 22 – September 22 Something has changed about your attitude to life recently and, for those closest to you, it has become a blatant and obvious transformation, while remaining one you refuse to accept.

Regrettably, some of you have started to pursue something altogether more material — money. A gradual detachment from your emotional side has seen you invest a great deal more energy into endeavours less spiritual and some of you will suffer if you do not attempt to reinstate better values. It’s not too late to see the error of your ways so consider your next move carefully.

Card of the Month — The Four of Coins

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Cameron Diaz

Hugh Jackman

Rachel Bilson

FAMOUS VIRGO THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear

Mango . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Massimo Dutti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7 Naturalizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Nine West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 The Children’s Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Tommy Hilfiger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Financial Institutions

Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . . . . 35 bni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Home & Furnishings

BoConcept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 The Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 The One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5

Hotels & Luxury Apartments

Crowne Plaza Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . 75 Fraser Suites Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Golden Tulip Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Holiday Inn Express. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Mirador Hotel (Peacock Restaurant) . . . 95 Pars International Hotel . . . . . . . . .141-145 Ramada Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Ramee Group of Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel. . . . . . 58 The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Jewellery & Watches

Asia Jewellers (Cartier) . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Patek Philippe) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 Sharif Group (Sector) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 41 Behbehani Brothers (VW) . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Ebrahim K. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Euro Motors (Maserati). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons (Renault) . . . . . 73 Zayani Motors (Mitsubishi). . . . . . . . .47,80

Others

Al Ghalia Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Alosra Supermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 AMA School of Basic Education. . . . . . . 96 Arabian Taxis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bahrain Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Coral Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 e-Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Gajria (Olympus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Genprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Intercol (Accu-Chek) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Intercol (Nokia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Juffair Fitness Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 Keller William Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Lala Belle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Nazih Trading (Macadamia) . . . . . . . . . . 87 Organic Foods & Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Primedia International . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 Punchline Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Radio Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163 The British School of Bahrain . . . . . . . . . 99 VLCC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro . . . . . . . . . . 1,77,138

Restaurants & Cafés

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . 51 Dr Amal Dental Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Dr Rashad Al-Alawi Dental Clinic . . . . 119 Gulf Dental Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Gulf Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Gulf Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Al Arisha Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Aroma Café & Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . 131 Block 338 Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Lanterns Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Maki Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 McDonalds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Pizza Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Vapiano Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Motoring

Telecommunications

Medical & Dental Services

Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Jeep) . . . . . . . . IBC

VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC

BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and

News Stands All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

September 2013 167

lastword

Travel Sickness

JAMES CLAIRE I have always prided myself on the 80 plus countries to which I have travelled. However, listening to a friend recently made me reflect on why my life has somewhat fallen apart.

168 September 2013

Travel sickness is a term used to refer to a conflict between what your eyes see and what your inner ears sense. The brain, unable to make sense of the jumble of mixed information it receives, makes you feel nauseous. Today, ‘travel sickness’ can mean something much worse, potentially a huge issue for future generations.

Modern travel sickness is more prevalent in Western societies, where new-found wealth even among the lower classes has lead to a spread of the need for travel. The theory is that, in the past, people could not travel due to a lack of access to airlines and the sheer expense of doing so.

The human race was somewhat content in life with what we had. Marriages stayed together because people stayed together.

In present time we travel far and wide — too far and too wide apparently. Our inquisitiveness, business trips, training overseas, vacations, inexpensive flights and globalisation have seen many of us travel farther than the ancient explorers who drew maps that began our understanding of the world in the first place.

Such travel for me has resulted in visiting 80 countries in 25 years, many of those revisited numerous times. It has been explained to me that the reason I find it difficult to stay in one place and call one place home is ‘travel sickness’.

For years we used to term this ‘itchy feet syndrome’, but it’s more serious than that. It’s not just a problem of standing still for too long. It is, according to my recent discussion, an inability to find satisfaction with anything because it has been seen too much.

I was born on an island off the coast of a major continent but

I have not travelled back there for decades, not because I hate my home, but because there is so much else to see. It does not seem exciting enough for me to go home; in part, it is the theory of the grass seeming greener on the other side.

Why go back to what you know when there are places out there much more exciting and as yet unseen? But what happens when I have seen them all and none of them feel like home?

There are two problems for the future. Travel sickness will only get worse for all of us and especially our coming generations. The world is a relatively tiny place as it is easier today to travel than ever before. At some stage we will all have travelled to multiple countries and still feel bored. The need for something new will some day set in for us all, spurring the drive to leave Earth and settle elsewhere.

But what of those who do travel to Mars and beyond? Will they have the same issues, bored with the inability to travel?

Will they go insane or will they return to normalcy and enjoy long relationships?

Or will we ever return to a lifestyle of community worth, family values and adoration?

It would be nice to know that there is a spark of hope for a return to the ways of old. To a time when enough was enough, when we did not travel to seek something better and to remove us from mundane lives, when divorce rates were minimal and not in a majority. Oh, for a time when things were simpler, when travel was but a dream and we needed for little because we never knew of anything else; a time when travel sickness could be cured with a pill and not the need to escape life altogether.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

cartier.com

calibre de cartier Chronograph 1904-Ch MC

The 1904-Ch MC, The new auToMaTiC winding Chronograph MoveMenT, was ConCeived, developed and asseMbled by The CarTier ManufaCTure in The greaTesT waTChMaking TradiTion. This MoveMenT is equipped wiTh ingenious sysTeMs for uTMosT preCision: a ColuMn wheel To CoordinaTe all The Chronograph funCTions, a verTiCal CluTCh designed To iMprove The aCCuraCy of sTarTing and sTopping The TiMing funCTion, a linear reseT funCTion, and a double barrel To ensure unrivalled TiMekeeping.

42 MM Case and braCeleT in sTeel, MeChaniCal ManufaCTure Chronograph MoveMenT, self-winding, Calibre 1904-Ch MC (35 jewels, 28,800 vibraTions per hour, approxiMaTely 48 hour power reserve), Calendar aperTure aT 6 o’CloCk, sTeel oCTagonal Crown, silver opaline snailed dial, silver finished ChaMfers.