Woman This Month - July/August 2018

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | FOOD | LOCAL ISSUES

July/August 2018 | Issue 185-186 | BD1 / SR10

FASHION The big bikini edit Style tips for leggy lovelies and short but sweeties Design your own shoes

PURELY PLANT-BASED Inspirational cuisine

FLYING HIGH AT LAST

Pilot Sabine Diemt on her journey to the cockpit

Women on Why Surprising vegan products

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Digital Edition

JULY/AUGUST 8 Over to You 10 The Month in Focus 12 Hot Shots: Things that have piqued the editor’s interest this month

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FASHION

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14 Pick of the month: Sizzling Shades 16-18 Focus: Making a Splash 20 Trend: Life in Black and White 22 Mood Board: Get Your Glitter On 24-25 Styling: The Hieght of Fashion 26-27 Get The Look: Bermuda Triangle 28 Essentials: 10 Things to Try 30-31 Backstage Pass: News from the world of fashio

PEOPLE

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32 Amal Charabati: Heritage Heirloom Design 34 Saudin Noddings: Solely Snazzy Shoes 36-37 Sabine Diemt: Flying High - At Last 38 Farial Salahuddin: A Fair Exchange

FEATURE - VEGAN/VEGGIE BAHRAIN 41 Going Guilt Free: Meat-free statistics 42 The Wizard of Veg: Kostas Magoulas 43-45 Vegan Voices: Why go veggie or vegan?

46 Vegan Surprise: Products you wouldn't expect

BEAUTY 48 Tips: Nail the Summer Look 50 Styling: Style Stealer 52-52 News: Latest products and happenings

LIFESTYLE

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56-57 Wellbeing: Very Vein 59 Food: Review 60 Food: Chef's Special 62-63 Homes: Easy Breezy 63-64 Feature: Staycations 67-70 Travel: Eastern Adventure 72 Opinion: Ouiam Charkani El Hassani 73 Horoscope: What's in store this month.

74 In Her Shoes: Anan Elkady

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The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

Editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at editor@womanthismonth.com. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

his month we bring you a double edition with more to read, see and do than ever.

In the fashion pages, Fernanda's gone beach crazy with dozens of bikinis and swimsuits to help you keep cool on these long, hot summer days. She's also turned her attention to fashion tips for those who don't comply to the style norm, long-legged ladies who find it hard to find pants and skirts to fit and the shorter girls for whom trips to the tailor come with virtually every shopping trip — there's not the slightest note of bitterness in my tone there at all!

Fashion's also to the fore in the interview section, where I was delighted to be shown the gorgeous artisan-made abayas from Amal Charabati. I also had a chat with pilot Sabine Diemt, whose determination to reach her goal is a lesson to us all.

Our main feature this month takes a look at the island's burgeoning vegan and vegetarian scene. Behnaz spoke to chef Kostas, who makes delicious nut butters and cheese and I heard from eight island residents about what made them choose this way of life and how it's affected them.

In the Lifestyle section we've added an extra feature on Staycations, highlighting the hotels and resorts which have something special to offer for those staying in Bahrain for the summer. And our regular travel section takes a look at the Far East; I must admit, just looking at the pictures made me want to pack my bags and go.

In the wellbeing section, Behnaz quizzes the experts on that bane of our lives, dodgy veins. From the varicose monsters that make us keep our legs covered to the tiny spidery thread veins that pop up in the most inconvenient places, a huge number of us will suffer with them at some stage. Make sure to check-out her words of wisdom.

As always, there's also fashion and beauty news; food to try and info on what's coming up on the island over the next few weeks.

Wherever you're reading this bumper issue, I hope you're enjoying the summer and staying as cool as possible. I'd love to hear what you're up to on liz@redhousemarketing.com

chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY contributors APPLE SHARMA BEHNAZ SANJANA FERNANDA LANGHAMMER SUZANNE NICHOLAS RAPHAEL OUIAM CHARKANI EL HASSANI head of digital operations NEIL F VAZ print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN The only layout & graphics HATEM MONEM women's media coordinator magazine SARAH ANSARI h media managers distributed wit FARHEEN AHMED the GDN circulation and research ROANNA FERNANDES photography editor MONA ABDUL JABBAR photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ W.L.L., BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2018© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 Woman This Month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle.

Bahrain office address Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: editor@womanthismonth.com website: www.womanthismonth.com Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing P. O. Box 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director

July-August 2018, Issue 185/186 Our month: The whole team handed over our unwanted clothes for the ARG charity campaign and Behnaz enjoyed some Ghabga fun.

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On the cover: Orsay SS18

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news Most Liked Post on Facebook

Best Reaction on Twitter On twitter, our post on 13-year-old Bahraini girl Juwan Abdul Khaleq received the highest number of impressions.

Most Liked Post on Instagram

On Facebook, our post on Lulu Hypermarket got the highest number of organic likes and reach.

# Trending

Heartwarming Inspiration On Instagram, a post wishing our fans Eid Mubarak was the most popular.

Letters Ouiam Charkani’s column is always a fun and, many times, thoughtful read. She touched upon the topic of mothers and primary caregivers not affording themselves some time out, and it’s just what I needed to realise. As women, we dedicate our time to our families, not sparing a free moment to just be! I have also understood that there is no shame in asking for help, and that delegation makes things so much easier.

We must realise, before it’s too late, that it’s not prudent to do it all on our own.

Nadia – Jannusan When I was looking for a homemade cake for my son’s birthday, I happened to read about Nancy Mahdy’s YallaCake. Thanks for this

WTM! I also cannot wait to try out her carrot cake recipe.

Rebecca – Jidhafs My daughter has just acquired her driving licence, and she is a little anxious to take the car out on the roads by herself. Truth be told, I’m more daunted than she is. I keep reminding her to stay safe, so when I saw your write-up on driving tips, I handed the article to her for keeps. Not only will she have a ready reckoner of what to do and not to do, but I think it will instil confidence in her and (most importantly) encourage her to know the basic technicalities of driving a vehicle.

Dina – Saar

Tammy Waddell, from Georgia, USA, died in July, aged 58, after battling cancer.

Instead of flowers, the elementary schoolteacher's friends, family and colleagues were encouraged to donate school supplies to students in need. Dozens of backpacks, filled with donated items, lined the aisles at her funeral as attendees honoured her wishes. About 100 teachers were honorary pallbearers, carrying the backpacks out and back to their schools.

Former and current students were among those to pay tribute. The story has struck a chord on social media platforms, garnering more than 100,000 upvotes. www.bbc.com

An All-Inclusive Design

Win, Win, Win!

We’re giving one lucky reader the chance for a spot of pampering at Joz Salon & Spa. Keep an eye on our social media pages as we have a BD20 voucher up for grabs. Take the chance for a manicure, pedicure, massage or other treatment at one of Joz’s branches in either Amwaj Islands or Juffair.

ASOS, the online retailer has released a stylish new jumpsuit that's also, wheelchair-friendly. The ‘Tie-Dye All-in-One Jumpsuit’ costs USD64, and was designed with BBC reporter and Paralympic hopeful, Chloe Ball-Hopkins. Its features are perfect for summer festivals, a place where Ball-Hopkins came up with the idea in the first place. This snazzy piece is easy to get in and out of, and is ideal for wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users alike. It has adjustable cuffs and hood as well as a waterproof jacket and pants that zip together. The soft, jersey-lined jumpsuit also features a hem that's slightly longer at the back so it won't ride up on you. www.today.com

We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at editor@womanthismonth.com Follow us on:

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Instagram: @womanthismonth

Twitter: @WomanThisMonth

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news

Month in Focus Dutch Powerhouse Duo in the House

First Class Beats

Every Picture Tells a Story

Jody Peck, a photographer who has lived in Bahrain and other parts of the Middle East for 20 years, travels often. From this journey he puts a family from a tiny village in Nepal on the map. Losing his way on an uneven road in the mountains with a friend, Jody happened upon Pachbaya, where, taken in by its splendour, he decided to stay a month. It was then that he started documenting the simple lives of a six-person family of three generations.

Unlike many of us shutterbugs with a DSLR and some free time on our hands, this Bahrain-based photographer magically transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Check out his storytelling pictures at the InTouch Clinic which welcomes you every day except Friday, ongoing till August.

Martha and Claudia, a Cuban duo, will be performing live at Via Brasil, Wyndham Garden, every night from 7pm to 2am, adding to the already vibrant ambience and memorable experience. There’s a reason they’re called ‘First Class’; their irresistible beats and performance will make even the shyest of you want to shake your booty!

While you’re bop-bop-bopp-ing along to the lively Cuban rhythm, treat yourself to a Brazilian all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet where passadores (meat waiters) will indulge you with skewers of unlimited straight cuts of meat: lamb, chicken, beef, you name it. Complement your meal with a wide range of salads, appetisers and sides and an extensive selection of drinks.

Beach Jam at Novotel

If you work a 9-to-5 week and then pass on a weekend Summer Jam with 10 hours of non-stop music, fire dancers and a beach sesh, well, you’ve got greater willpower than we have.

With a line-up of top international and local DJs (still to be announced) vowing to keep us going with varying genres of music, LED dancers and a massive light show, accompanied by food and drink by the beach, we know where we’ll be on July 27. Peace, love, unity and summer feels galore all in one at the hottest beach in town. V3 Design has even constructed an impressive stage with futuristic designs and lights just for this

Quizzing for a Cause

We’ll be putting our thinking caps on and heading to Celluloid at Amwaj Lagoon on July 26 for the latest BSPCA quiz night.

With entry priced at BD5 per person, the quiz nights have always been a success, with everyone having a fun evening, and this time will be no exception. Ian Fisher is the guest quizmaster. There are Happy

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Vibes presents Lucas & Steve, raving at number 64 in 2017’s Top 100 DJMag list, as they make their Middle East debut at Gallery 21 on July 27. The iconic MTVaward nominees have been momentous in their climb to the top in recent years and their summer hits, Summer On You and Up Till Dawn, have drawn an insane 3 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

The proof of their stardom is in the proverbial music festival pudding. Their energy and banging beats have won over crowds at Tomorrowland’s mainstage, Creamfields, Sziget Festival and on tours across Europe, Asia and South America.

A chance to see a pair of Tomorrowland’s hottest DJs in action? Yes puh-lease!

night, so you know it’s gonna be good. See you there!

Hour drink prices, a special snack menu, a raffle draw and just a night of good old-fashioned fun. Join us, support a good cause and sharpen your mind in the process.

Tables can be booked for your team by contacting Rachel on 66 608-901 or Kate on 37 733-415.

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INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE W

At InterContinental Regency Bahrain, the team is dedicated to making your big day memorable.

ith professionals on hand to take the stress and worry out of wedding preparation and planning, the InterContinental Regency aims to ensure that your day is a truly memorable one, where you are free to focus on your joy and happiness while leaving the details to them.

Exceptional service and understated luxury set the InterContinental Regency Bahrain apart.

These factors, coupled with versatile function spaces and superior food and service make the hotel a unique wedding venue. Tailor your wedding package and menu from the variety of cuisine options on offer, prepared using the finest ingredients. The experienced wedding team is on hand to advise on menus, decorations, mood and more.

A spokesman says: “No matter what your wish, we promise you a wedding of unforgettable beauty that you truly deserve."

The hotel’s unique and versatile banquet spaces can seat up to 350 guests and provide an unforgettable reception venue. Choose from either Al Thurayya or Ambassador, both

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providing natural light, or the elegant Al Rifaa Ballroom which has an exclusive access and a private majlis, pre-function area and is equipped with spectacular high ceilings.

Book your special day now to take advantage of a very special Summer Wedding promotion.

Call 17 208-313 or 39 406-169.

July/August 2018

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news

HOT SHOTS

es the Liz O'Reilly shar r, ai ch 's or it ed .

From the rest this month piqued her inte ve ha at th gs in th

Prepare for Kick-off Record Breakers

Congratulations to the 2,505 Irish women who broke the Guinness World Record for skinny dipping, raising lots of cash for children’s cancer charities at the same time.

The previous record or 786 swimmers was set in Perth, Western Australia. The ‘Strip and Dip’ as it’s called, looks like a great fun event, but I’ve been in the water off County Wicklow and, even with the present heatwave, the Irish Sea is always bloomin’ cold, so these ladies deserve an extra round of applause.

The Short Straw

The mayor of Lebanese town Brummana has issued female police officers with a new uniform, which includes short black shorts, saying it’s designed to change perceptions and bring in Western tourists.

Not surprisingly, there has been something of an outcry with conservatives saying the move sexualises female officers and women’s activists arguing, quite rightly in my opinion, that it’s blatant sexism. It seems to me this new uniform falls down on just about every level. Why should only women be forced to show off their legs?

What sort of tourists will this attract? What about those female officers who don’t possess particularly attractive gams? And what about the male officers who might welcome the chance to wear a nice pair of shorties in Lebanon’s hot summer? Bit unfair all round if you ask me. But then, looking at the pictures, I’m not even convinced it’s a real story — they certainly don’t look much like cops to me!

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By the time you’re reading this, the FIFA World Cup will be all over for another four years. But, as I’m writing, it’s with anticipation of the semi-finals. England is through and, as predicted, this is the point at which I actually become both interested and, of course, an instant expert. Which, in a very slight digression, gets me wondering about the Women’s World Cup. So, girls, it turns out it’s actually not all over at all. The ladies’ game has its own world tournament next year and I reckon we should be making as much noise about that as we’ve heard from Russia 2018. Players tell me the women’s game is woefully under-appreciated — time for sisters to do it for themselves, methinks.

Jiving to Jail!

Still Fighting the Good Fight

As we went to press, organisations around the world were gearing up to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Nelson Mandela.

There will be big-name concerts, a travelling exhibit and more. But, what’s really great to see is that the men of South Africa are stepping up with the 100 Men March (rather than the more commonly recognised 100 Women events) held in Pretoria to protest violence against women and children. Actor Maake kaNcube, who took part, urged men to use their power to build a better society, saying: "What I'm hoping to gather out of this march is to give hope to all the women that there are men who are standing up." I think 'Madiba' would be pleased.

OK, so I know Iran has strict modesty laws but, given that the country has some pretty serious economic and political issues going on at the moment, you’d think the authorities would have better things to do than persecute a teenager for dancing in her bedroom! Maedeh Hojabri was reportedly detained and then released on bail after the clip of her dancing appeared on Instagram.

The state’s heavy-handed action prompted an immediate online backlash, with other women across the country risking jail to post dance videos of themselves in support.

I’m glad they’re taking a stand, but sad that they need to.

Word of the Month PLUVIOPHILE

At this time of year, we all turn into these – it’s a person who takes great joy and comfort in rainy days. Oh, how I wish! www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | pick of the month

SIZZLING SHADES We’re loving the latest drop from Geox, which has continued its collabo with Italian designer Ernesto Esposito to come up with a range of luxurious, elegant and feminine footwear in a selection of spicy hues that simply yell ‘Summer’. Whether you’re looking for comfortable walking flats, beach-perfect sliders or rock-star heels, this collection has you covered. And, even better, Geox sticks with its founding principle of offering shoes that are not only stylish but also comfortable and great value. What’s not to like?

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FASHION | focus

BANDEAU/STRAPLESS

Also known as a bandini, this type of bikini is very popular amongst girls who are seeking the perfect tan. It has very thin straps or none at all, which means no unwanted strap marks. It’s the best pick for hourglass-shaped women and smaller-chested ladies. Beware, it can easily slip down, so take care if you have heavy breasts.

H&M

Matalan

Accessorize

F&F

MAKE A SPLASH

Tory Burch Zara

It’s time to revisit your swimwear and check out the latest fits.

Looking for a new purchase? Fernanda Langhammer offers some types and tips to discover the best option for your shape and style.

When living in the Middle East, swimming pools are the best way to cool down during the hot months. They are super inviting and are available in most compounds and apartment buildings. Before you know it, you have an extensive swimwear collection with pieces for each occasion in different patterns and designs. Not to mention that, with frequent

Monsoon

use and a lot of chlorine, the life span of our favourite pieces tends to be short. So, stocking up on bathers is a regular part of your desertliving routine.

With so many options in the market, choosing the perfect piece can be difficult. Follow our quick guide to different styles and how best to wear them.

STRING

This type of swimwear is popular with young girls and women with fit bodies. Strings on both top and bottom are very common, so if you have larger thighs, this style might not work for you unless you are very confident. Don’t necessarily be put off; strings can still look good on larger ladies as long as they are well fitting and do not leave acres of flesh overflowing!

Tory Burch

New Look

womensecret Debenhams

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FASHION | focus

TANKINI

Composed of two pieces, the tank top covers the whole tummy area and the bottoms usually have a bigger format. This design is great for all body types, but is particularly good for those with extra curves and new

M&Co

Long Tall Sally

mums. The advantage over swimsuits is that it comes in two pieces, which is more convenient and lets you mix and match different bottoms.

M&Co

White Stuff

Matalan

HIGH NECK

Accessorize

Debenhams

HIGH-WAISTED

Bershka

These might bring to mind your grandma’s beachwear, but the truth is that these granny-style pants are the hottest bikini bottoms of the season.

Most brands are betting on them and offering an array of accompanying tops. They’re a good choice

Debenhams

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F&F

Marks & Spencer

This is the best choice if you’re planning to go swimming or practise any water sports. It gives the necessary support, covering the whole bust area. It’s a great pick for big busts and a terrible choice for flat chests as it really doesn’t offer much shape enhancement.

F&F New Look

if you’re not overly confident in showing off your waistline as they usually go right up to the belly button. Depending on the material and cut, they can also act as tummy tamers.

H&M

M&Co

Zara

July/August 2018

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FASHION | focus

FRILLS

These bikini tops are best recommended for smaller-chested girls. The extra volume in the bust area creates a 3D effect, helping to balance the body composition. If the ruffles are added to the bottom, they work the same way, but in the lower part of the body.

New Look

Accessorize H&M

ONE-PIECE WITH A TWIST

These one-pieces are more fashion statements than the perfect tanning choice. They come in different designs and vary in coverage and, while they might not be your ideal swimming companion, they’re perfect for hanging out at the beach bar or showing off your tan with a pretty wrap or shorts.

Bershka

River Island

Violeta by Mango

Bershka

womensecret

Marina Rinaldi

ONE-PIECE

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womensecret

H&M

It’s official, there really is no age at which you must abandon your bikini! However, the much-loved one-piece is still an all-time favourite chosen for its elegance, comfort and support. If you need a little extra help in the tummy area, this is the pick for you, with many swimsuits offering hidden control panels.

And wired tops, often with thicker straps, make onepieces a perfect fit for those with bigger boobs too.

Lipsy

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showcase ORSAY

HOT FASHION AT HONEST PRICES A new collection from German apparel brand, Orsay, is now available at City Centre Bahrain.

L

adies, rejoice! Popular European retailer, Orsay, is here with its fresh collection of women’s clothing that is set to take Bahrain’s high street fashion lovers by storm.

Founded in 1975 in Germany, the label provides the latest outfits and accessories to trend enthusiasts. The vision of the brand is to enable women to express their unique femininity with outfits designed for the modern, self-confident woman who likes to dress according to her personal taste and style. The line is always up-to-date and never fails to impress, no matter what your preference. The selection is chic enough to be put onto the catwalk, and practical enough for everyday life – to work, unwind or party.

The brand believes that everyone deserves to be beautifully dressed and offers affordable apparel that’s both current and timeless. Not only are the clothes gorgeous to look at and wear, they are also fairly priced, which means you can look fabulous without breaking the bank.

The new range at the store in City Centre Bahrain is designed to beat the summer heat.

Following the season’s style trends, mixed patterns and bold designs take centre stage, and pastel shades like strawberry pink, pretty peach and vogueish lilac highlight the romance of the summer. Besides breezy dresses and charming blouses, everyday basics like jeans and skirts are available in earthy colours, solids and mute tones. The styles you will find in-store come with a high standard of quality. The outlet sports a new collection every two weeks, so fashionistas always have great outfits to flaunt their personal panache.

Orsay is passionate about designing feminine garb for women and has earned a name for itself with over 670 shops across 33 countries. The label stands for on-trend clothing that allows women to express their individuality.

No wonder that it has become the go-to brand for the self-assured lady who likes her attire to be an extension www.womanthismonth.com

of her charisma.

This international clothing concept offers a broad product mix that balances elegance, price and quality perfectly.

So, give your wardrobes a seasonal makeover; after all you deserve the very best.

Call: 17 581-569.

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FASHION | trend

Life in Black &White Givenchy SS 2018 at givenchy.com

These contrasting shades are a classic fashion choice.

They can paint high-end gowns and cheap accessories with the same glory. Even during summer, when the streets are coloured in all sorts of bright hues, the monochrome combination is a striking option.

Shift dress: CH Carolina Herrera, 17 178-520

Striped floppy hat: Matalan, 17 008-353

y?

Felling edstgriped pieces. They

Dior SS 2018 at dior.com

Wear bold legant at hing and e tc a -c e y e are me! the same ti CH Carolina 20 Herrera, 17 178-5

Monochrome blouse: Longchamp at longchamp.com

Bikini: womensecret, 17 178-289.

Shoe detail at Sportmax SS 2018

right t: Extra poinonochrome outfit with as bcan Flower printed dress: Lipsy, 17 179-385

e Pair your m id red or yellow sho iv V . ry o . ss k e acc our loo y spin to y add a funk

Backstage at Isabel Marant SS 2018

: Must-havheite dress. You can go

a A black & w endy and daring, or , tr lf a -h lf a h for rsion. printed ve

Printed tote: Lacoste, 17 179-530

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Trainers: GEOX at geox.com Striped bardot crop top: New Look, 17 179-406

Checked mule: Wallis, 17 583-236

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Accessorize

Marc Jacobs

FASHION | moodboard

Dior SS 2018

Get Your Glitter On

Jeremy Scott

Paperchase

Tom Ford

Accessorize

Dries van Noten SS 2018 beauty

Gucci

Topshop

The disco era may be in the past, but its glamour will remain forever in our hearts. Gems, rhinestones, sequins and glitter are more on trend than ever. They are not only a safe pick for a fab party look, but they are also great during daylight hours. Your everyday dress code can finally sparkle here and there, without causing a fashion commotion.

Dior brought a rainbow of mirror dresses to its SS 2018 collection, mixing glitz with transparency for an awesome effect. You’ll find an outfit that is red carpet-made, but that can also be appropriate for special occasions like proms and New Year’s parties.

Dries van Noten and Jeremy Scott went beyond and added an extra light touch to their make-up with eyes bedazzled with small crystals. Victoria Beckham opted for Cinderella shoes to embrace a feminine brilliance in her summer collection.

If a totally shimmering look is too much for you, add accents to your outfit with smart accessories. Bum-bags, for some reason, have caught the fashion community’s eye this season, so if you are already going for an outof-the box carrier, why not make it shine? Go big or go home! If you really like flashy pieces, go bold honey.

Victoria Beckham

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Gucci

Halpern

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FASHION | styling

THE HEIGHT of Fashion Hayden Panettiere and Wladimir Klitschko

Does your height affect your fashion choices? Pants too long? Shirts too short? Whether you’re petite or blessed with height, dressing for the nonstandard can be a challenge. Fernanda Langhammer has come up with 10 top tips for each body type and a selection of trendy pieces to create the perfect measured wardrobe, just for you.

Petite

The term refers to women that are 1.60cm (5’3”) or below and they come in all sizes and shapes. No matter what kind of petite you are, just remember to get to know your body and learn how to balance the top part with the lower. This tip actually works for any body type.

.. .. .. .. .. ..

Wear short skirts or mini shorts, they make your legs look longer, or just wear them because you can!

Accentuate your waist. It will divide your body into upper and lower parts, instead of a boxy shape.

Don’t wear full-length jeans. They won’t elongate you as promised; opt for cropped trousers instead.

Go for French-cut bottoms, the high waist adds a few virtual centimetres to your lower body.

When wearing a maxi or midi dress, opt for those with a split.

When choosing a pair of boots, give preference to ankle options and not kneehighs.

Layers can help create a visual effect, so opt for fitted jackets when wearing longer lengths.

Skirts and dresses that are shorter at the front and longer at the back can help with the illusion of longer legs, and, as a bonus, they’re currently right on trend.

Avoid wide-legged trousers, opting instead for a flared-leg cut.

Small shoulder bag Mulberry

Open sandals Charles & Keith

Brown medium belt Accessorize

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Ruffled skirt Guess

Short knotted dress Girls on Film

Shorts jeans Superdry

Midi bodycon dress with a split Miss Selfridge

Belt Accessorize

Flare trousers Weill

Biker fitted ja

cket Miss Selfr

idge

If wearing a skirt below the knee, perhaps

.. .. .. ..

for work, pair it with open sandals – avoid chunky shoes.

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FASHION | styling

Chunky necklace Marks & Spencer

Sky-high

Cropped three-quarters sleeve denim jacket MICHAEL Michael Kors

Women above 1.75cm (5’9”) fall into this category. When you think of tall ladies, fashion models come to mind, but, of course, not all tall girls are skinny! Bearing that in mind, there are a few simple rules to follow to make the most of your stature.

.. .. .... .. ..

Maxi is the word for you. Don’t be afraid to wear maxi dresses and maxi skirts. Midi length is also a good pick.

Jumpsuits! Tall ladies can wear these with ease and a long flowing style really makes the best of this look.

Go for high boots and avoid booties.

Long jeans paired with cropped tops might not work for you. Unless you’ve got a specific look in mind, this is a combination best avoided.

When picking your shorts, go for a longer style, such as Bermudas. Even at the beach, they will suit your body type way better.

Finding sleeves long enough to accommodate your arm length might

.. .. ..

be a problem. In this case opt for 3/4-length shirts.

Embrace oversized accessories; they were made for you.

Pair narrow with wide. If you go for wide-legged pants, choose a tight top and, if wearing skinny jeans, team it up with an oversized jacket.

Wear beautiful shoes! You already know that people are going to stare at your feet when you enter a room to check if you are in heels, so make it worth their attention!

..

To be on the safe side, bypass the dryer; you probably don’t need any extra volume on the top of your head!

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban

Shirt dress Long Tall Sally

Pencil skirt Max Mara

Oversized pullover Desigual

Maxi draped skirt Weill Slip-ons H&M

Large tote Dune London

www.womanthismonth.com

Yellow jumpsuit Matalan

July/August 2018

25

FASHION | get the look

BERMUDA TRIANGLE

The hottest piece of the season is also one of the most democratic and practical of all. Bermudas or long shorts – call them what you will, they are the perfect summer staple. Fernanda Langhammer shows you how to take them from casual to chic.

Printed scarf, H&M Conscious, 17 110-350.

Brown messenger bag, Mulberry at mulberry.com.

REFINED STYLE.

In the Middle East, summer has a whole new meaning and shorts can be your best friend! To take them to the office or to a more formal occasion, pick a tailored style with a loose cut to suit the situation.

Delicate high-heeled sandals and smart accessories complete the polished look. Earth tones are classic and, this season, the palette is a must-have element in your wardrobe.

Embroidered camel top, Zara, 17 112-333.

Trussardi

26

Brown high-heeled sandals, Max Mara, 17 131-015.

July/August 2018

Round brown sunglasses, Longchamp at longchamp.com.

Green Bermudas, COS, 17 110-361.

Golden bracelet, Parfois, 17 178-054. www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | get the look

YOUTHFUL COOL.

Straw hat, Bershka, 17 172-303.

Denim shorts are just as popular as jeans. Paint them in black and add some ripped spots for a fashionable punk effect. Despite being more suitable for the younger crowd, these shorts can be paired with assorted pieces to create a final look that corresponds to your style. You can opt for more traditional elements or go for a black and white youngster mood as suggested here.

Black and golden tassel earrings, New Look, 17 179-406.

Hailey Baldwin

Pink sunglasses, Calvin Klein Jeans at marchon.com.

Straw shoulder bag, Charles & Keith, 17 179-307.

Black hat, Zara, 17 112-333.

Denim biker jacket, Bershka, 17 172-303.

Strapless checked top, CH Carolina Herrera, 17 178-520.

Geometric sunglasses, MCM at marchon.com.

SPONTANEOUS STYLE.

White Bermudas, Mango, 17 581-883.

Off-the-shoulder printed top, H&M, 17 110-350.

Golden flat sandals, Dune London, 16 686-215. www.womanthismonth.com

Black denim shorts, H&M, 17 110-350.

Duffel bag, MICHAEL Michael Kors, 17 178-630.

Charlize Theron

Casual, yet creative is what we are going for here. White Bermudas are a good start for a successful summer outfit. Pair them with an off-the-shoulder printed top to embrace another trendy piece of the season. If you prefer something more conservative, choose a polo shirt or blouse; they also work pretty well. A straw hat and handbag reinforce the summer mode while the tassel earrings and metal sunglasses upgrade the relaxed look.

High-ankle trainers, Karl Lagerfeld, 17 112-715.

July/August 2018

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FASHION |essentials

00000

TEN THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH

1

3

Eye of the tiger.

Don’t be afraid to go heavy with the eyeliner. The super-dark effect is perfect to finalise your daring night-out look.

2

Half-half.

This trend, mostly spotted in Calvin Klein’s SS 2018 collection, divides a clothing piece into two different hues. It looks even better when you play with the same colour in different tones.

5

Web trapping.

Simple crochet pieces can transform your summer looks.

Knit work is a fashionable item to be added to your beach bag.

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July/August 2018

Look to the sky.

It’s all yellow! Get inspired by sunny days to choose your wardrobe palette. This primary colour smartly matches up with earth tones, blues and white.

7

Rebel, rebel.

Balenciaga just proved that you can carry your style throughout. There is no age limited to express yourself and wear what makes you feel good. Rock and roll Babe!

Still confused about what is trending? Check out Fernanda Langhammer’s picks and enjoy the hot season in style!

8

Bustier tops are here to stay!

Feminine and daring as always.

4

Square neckline, here we go!

9

'90s minimalism. If there is something we learned from nineties fashion, it’s that less is more. Plain slip dresses were popular then and a total hit now.

6

Great hair day.

Remember those days when you wake up and your curls are all over the place? Well, sloppy hair is a thing this season, don’t fix it! Just make a messy bun or tie it a little bit and you are good to go.

10

Liberate the modern Amazon in you!

www.womanthismonth.com

showcase

LIALI

Liali Mubarak

JEWELLERY

BD525/BD340/-

BD290/-

The Perfect Gift for Any Occasion.

Tessitore:

Claudia Romano:

Italian handcrafted designs that can be worn as workwear as well as casual wear.

Unconventional craftsmanship inspired by nature.

Earrings: BD770/- | Pendant: BD420/BD200/-

Emerald-cut:

BD320/-

www.womanthismonth.com

BD730/-

For the chosen few, who believe they are a cut above.

Visit Liali Jewellery at City Centre Bahrain.

Call 17 178-160.

BD330/-

July/August 2018

29

FASHION | forward

CHRISTIAN DIOR EXHIBITION IN UK

February 2019 will see the largest UK exhibition of the house of Dior, the V&A museum’s biggest since 2015’s Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.

The plan is to reimagine the Christian Dior: Couturier du Rêve exhibition, which recently took place in Paris, and additionally to explore the designer’s allure to British culture.

Dior contributed greatly to design history in the early stages of his career with creations such as Princess Margaret’s 21st birthday dress.

The exhibition will portray images, dresses, perfumes, make-up and even Dior’s personal possessions. Tickets go on sale in Autumn 2018, so if you’re a Dior enthusiast (who isn’t), you might want to grab one early.

DELPOZO IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Chalhoub Group will be the exclusive representative for Delpozo, the Spanish prêt-à-couture house, in the Middle East from the spring-summer 2019 season.

Delpozo’s creative relaunch under Josep Font, its creative director, was the catalyst for the partnership.

Under Font, the luxury brand expanded internationally, showing at New York Fashion Week and recently opening a flagship store in Dubai.

Chalhoub Group is confident that with its “intimate knowledge and extensive experience” of Middle Eastern markets and consumers, Delpozo will grow in the region.

VAN NOTEN SELLS MAJORITY STAKE

Belgian Dries van Noten, one of Europe’s last few independent designers, recently sold a large stake in his business to Barcelona-based Puig. Noten was a leading promoter of transformation in fashion from the early 1980s and has remained an industry favourite since.

Renowned for his emphasis on coloured prints and diligent tailoring, he will stay with Puig as its chief creative officer and chairman of the board.

Mark Puig, chairman and chief executive of the Spanish fashion and fragrance company which owns Paco Rabanne, Carolina Herrera and Nina Ricci among others, looks forward to “further developing the label” and welcomes Noten to the fashion family.

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July/August 2018

E G A T S K BAC

PASS

nd

a ol, trending o c 's t a h w n Our take o fashionable #MeandMyPeekaboo

Kris Jenner, Kim Kardashian and North West have joined Fendi in its 10-year celebration of the Peekaboo bag. Being the trio’s first campaign together, the images portray three generations of the family flaunting Peekaboo bags, in Fendi’s second instalment of the series. They also appeared in a short film set to Kanye West’s Love Lockdown.

Family is an important concept for the Fendi brand, according to Venturini Fendi who claims: “For the second instalment, the idea was to expand the concept of family and we wanted other families of women.” Who better to front this campaign than the Jenner/ Kardashian/ West ladies?

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | forward

Cruz Joins Chanel

ASOS SUSTAINABLE FASHION TRAINING PROGRAMME

ASOS recently pledged to ban cashmere, silk, feathers and down from its platform by early January 2019. The company is also attempting to educate designers about sustainability.

This pilot programme, in partnership with The London College of Fashion’s Centre for Sustainable Fashion (CSF), is “a vital step on [their] journey to designing products with circularity in mind… which will ensure that they are made responsibly, remain in use for as long as possible once they’re sold, and don’t cause unnecessary waste at the end of their lives”, according Vanessa Spence, ASOS design director.

With a vision to inspire a generation, ASOS aims to influence change in the right direction.

www.womanthismonth.com

Oscar-winning actress Penelope Cruz has signed as the latest face of fashion house Chanel, joining an all-star line-up that has included Kristen Stewart, Keira Knightly and Margot Robbie.

The actress will feature in the brand’s upcoming cruise campaign, shot by creative director Karl Lagerfeld. She told WWD: “He’s like the king of fashion and we had a really, really interesting photo shoot, so, to be in front of his camera is an adventure.” We’re looking forward to seeing the results of that collaboration.

July/August 2018

31

PEOPLE | interview

HEIRLOOM DESIGN HERITAGE

Passionate champion of artisan labour, Amal Charabati talks with Liz O’Reilly about preserving her mother’s legacy along with a set of dying skills.

L

istening to the passion with which Amal speaks about the traditional artistry used to create the stunning pieces in her collections for Amal’s Abayas & Loafers, it’s no surprise to learn that she grew up around the business, which was started in Lebanon by her mother back in the 1980s.

A working mum with children to raise, Elham Charabati drew on Lebanon’s artisanal heritage using handloomed cloth to design and manufacture gorgeous, colourful traditionally cut abayas that, from small beginnings, gained a worldwide following – supermodel Claudia Schiffer even wore

one of Elham’s designs when she met the Lebanese president.

Amal says: “She took the traditional abaya and added pockets or small embellishments to give it a funky twist. She appreciated the importance of tradition, so she didn’t try to change the cut but she did manage to change the whole look to make her abayas more modern.”

However, until her mother’s sudden death in 2013, Amal, a respected communications professional, had no intentions of joining the family firm. She explains: “I had always been interested. I was very close to my mother and I grew up as she was building the business, so I knew all about it. I did think I would love to do something like this, but I am also passionate about my work in communications. But, when my mother passed, I realised that I have never really tested my creativity — you have to test yourself. I thought that maybe I have something hidden within myself that I needed to explore.”

Living in Bahrain and with none of the close family left in Lebanon, she was forced to close her mother’s shop. But, after taking

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July/August 2018

time to grieve, she decided she would set about carrying on her mother’s legacy by working with Lebanon’s artisan weavers on a range of traditional abayas for modern women.

She says: “Of course, I knew all the craftsmen my mother had worked with but, when I contacted them, many had retired. I asked if they had passed their skills on to their children, but they mostly said no. So, although there were some of the workforce left, I had to go and find new artisans to work with – and, obviously, you have to make sure you have the right quality, which is what we’re known for.

“It’s very sad that people no longer look so much to buy handmade – they want designer names and will pay USD500 for a machinemade T-shirt but then will say my designs are expensive. That’s why I have created a small label, which goes on each piece, thanking people for helping to keep handmade alive.

And, on my Facebook and Instagram pages, I have pictures of the workers at the loom, explaining how my cloths are made – once people realise the labour and skill involved, they no longer think my pieces are expensive.

If you look at them, they are investment pieces. With some, the embroidery takes two or three months for each piece and the gold is actual gold plate.

“If people don’t support traditional crafts, www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview

Kathy, Eyad & Priya

Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosted an Iftar at its premises.

Crowne Plaza Iftar

Krisha

David & Gilles

Desiree

the artisans cannot make a living and skills will die out. I have promised myself that I will keep using the traditional techniques and not go to machine production, which was a promise my mother also made.�

For the future, Amal is about to release a new collection, at the end of August. And, taking into account her Bahrain location, it will feature more lightweight cotton pieces alongside the heavier Lebanese weaves. You can find her at exhibitions and pop-up markets around the Kingdom and on Facebook and Instagram @amalsabayasandloafers and she is also planning to launch her own website in the coming months.

Aeyshal, Annu & Aamir

Muskaan, Mahak, Raeas & Swathi

www.womanthismonth.com

July/August 2018

33

PEOPLE | interview

SOLELY SNAZZY SHOES

Suzanne Nicholas checks out a service that makes shoe lovers' fantasies a reality.

A

t the risk of sounding borderline dramatic, if I had to describe one of my worst shopping experiences, it would be finally finding the perfect pair of neon stilettos on the day of a neon-themed party, only to find the store didn’t have then in my size. I’m sure women around the globe would agree that shoe shopping can be a harrowing experience. Ever found an almost perfect pair you couldn’t buy either because of the wrong fit, unavailable size, heel height or unappealing colour, and wondered if you will ever find a shoe with all the characteristics you want? With a vision "to empower women with options," the recently launched bespoke service Shoenvious, does you one better.

It’s an innovative online platform that allows you to customise, design and create bespoke luxury footwear, at a surprisingly reasonable price, so there is nothing stopping you from owning the perfect pair, in around six weeks from first mouse click to delivery.

When co-founder, Saudin Noddings (pictured), spent months searching for the perfect pair of wedding shoes, she knew she wanted to offer women a shoe-buying experience which eliminated the need for compromise on design and size. Ta-da! Shoenvious was born. She explains: “As a shoe fanatic myself, it’s important to wear shoes that don’t compromise on my style and that meet the needs of the occasion. We want to change

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July/August 2018

the way women shop for shoes by giving them the opportunity to put their best foot forward every day in a bespoke pair that represents their personality.”

All you have to do is log onto www. shoenvious.com and choose the shoe style of your preference and then simply go along with the details that suit your liking.

Your shoes can be designed to whisper elegance, scream sassiness or accentuate flattering femininity. With 15 shapes, 250plus colours and materials, and 50-plus design options, it’s possible to create a work of outstanding artistry.

If starting from scratch scares you, the site offers a selection of predesigned shoes that can be ordered or customised. With every click, the 3D shoe designer provides a 360-degree representation of your creation and there is something almost therapeutic in watching your new footwear take shape at every stage of the process. Saudin claims: “With you as the designer, there is a magical element in being able to wear your own, unique creation.”

purchasing a product, you’re in control of the whole design experience.”

Completely handmade with pure leather in a plethora of colours, these luxury quality shoes come with a 100-per-cent-fit guarantee.

Saudin says: “Shoenvious aims to provide you with endless possibilities and great value for money.” What’s more, the site also offers gift cards and a personalised inscription option, providing the option of gifting something beautifully unique or simply spoiling yourself with an individual touch.

Initially only operating within the GCC countries, Shoenvious — given its popularity — now caters to shoe lovers all over the world.

The chance to design your own footwear not only excites your inner child but also allows you to individualise your shoes to suit your fashion sense, making them more ‘you’.

Saudin aptly claims: “When you order a pair of shoes from Shoenvious.com, you’re not only www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview

FLYING HIGH AT LAST

en in m o w n ries o tells Liz e s r u o t est of bine Diem pit was not t a l e In th n, pilot Sa the cock o to aviati the path ly O’Reil smooth. s alway

A

ustrian national Sabine has been in Bahrain for two-and-a-half years and is a captain flying a Learjet 60XR for a private company which maintains and operates aircraft on behalf of their owners.

Last year she flew around 300 hours, which is a lot for a private airline pilot, and visited cities such as Moscow, Nice and London as well as several out-of-the-way destinations.

But, though always interested in aviation, Sabine didn’t take the conventional route to achieve her dream. She says: “At first I wanted to be a helicopter pilot, but the training costs three times as much. So, I went to school for IT and started to work in that field at the same time as studying for my private pilot’s licence.

July/August 2018

Undeterred, Sabine used her IT background to secure a job in flight dispatch at a business jet operator and “I got lucky,” she explains. “It was a new company, just one year old and a joint venture with the company I currently work for, and they agreed to put me on the flight list.”

I got lucky

“My flight instructor suggested going ahead [to get her commercial licence] because at

36

that time there was a need for pilots. But you need to have a certain number of hours and, of course, that takes time. When I was ready to start looking, there was no more need for pilots!”

But, even then, all was not plain sailing – it actually took more than six years for Sabine to get a pilot’s seat.

“The company has to present potential crew to the owners [of the planes] and I was rejected, a lot. Partly because I was a woman

but also because I was low on hours. You also need aircraft-specific training, so why [would the owner] invest thousands in that [when there are qualified people available], plus it is more costly to insure planes flown by lowhours pilots.”

Eventually, she got a call to fly the Learjet 60 classic for a Russian owner and was based in Moscow but, after six months, they decided to change their operating company and she was without a job.

It sounds harsh but Sabine says: “It happens a lot; either owners will change companies or they may change aircraft. You certainly have to update your CV a lot!”

Stints in Lebanon and Luxembourg followed – with two more layoffs, one just before Christmas – before Sabine landed, literally, in Bahrain and went to work for her current owner as a co-pilot. www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview

She continues: “You start out as a co-pilot and becoming a captain takes experience and you have to have a certain number of flying hours. You can be upgraded at 1,500, but that’s very unusual. I was upgraded at 2,000 and that’s early – it’s usually around 3,000 hours. I was very lucky that this owner wanted me to be upgraded and there was a position available.”

Though Sabine’s current position is as much down to perseverance as luck, she comments on the relative scarcity of women in aviation, saying: “Overall, women make up only around three to five per cent of pilots worldwide – that’s in aviation over all airlines. Private airlines are more flexible, so there are probably more. I was recently told that in Austria there are approximately 200 women pilots, apart from in private aviation.”

And, asked why she believes that is, she replies: “I hear over and over again some women say ‘I didn’t even know women could be pilots’!

So, they don’t see it as a career option. I’ve had people look into the cockpit and they are shocked.

“It’s also not very family-friendly – I don’t know how I would cope.

As soon as you are pregnant, you can’t fly any more because there are high levels of radiation. I know in some countries women do continue to fly, but I think it’s a good rule. But then, once you’re ready to go back to work, you have to get current again, retrain and get certified again. Some airlines offer part-time or put women on short-haul flights but, in business aviation, if you have a rota of three weeks on and one week off, that’s not going to work. I think that’s also a big part of why women don’t go into flying; you’re investing time, energy and money just to drop out.

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“For me, business aviation works. It’s more interesting because you never know where you’re going to sleep and you may get to go somewhere you’ve never been before. I always have a bag packed and you have to be prepared because your passenger may decide to travel on [from the initial destination]. I once flew from plus 30˚ to minus 30˚ in Russia.

“The best part is that you get to see places that you’d never otherwise see, and the variety, every day is different. Every day you fly, you see the sun above the clouds, there’s no routine.

“For women, it’s challenging but rewarding. I would tell them to at least try it, get some lessons and see. The nice thing about having the licence is that, if you don’t want it as a job, you can still do so much with it. In Europe you can take a plane for a day trip to another country. And there are lots of other opportunities, too, such as cargo flying and aerial photography.”

your guide to a great way of life Subscribe your mail to receive your monthly digital edition! www.bahrainthismonth.com/addme

Tel.: 17 813 777 Ext. 239

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July/August 2018

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PEOPLE | interview

B

A FAIR EXCHANGE

On her recent visit to Barhain, Fariel Salahuddin, founder of inspirational barter enterprise Goats for Water, spoke to Mobeena Inam about her work and plans for the future.

orn and educated in Karachi, Pakistan, Fariel Salahuddin is a young woman with a mission and an innovative mind. She is the CEO and founder of Goats for Water (GFW), a social enterprise that aims to provide community-led solutions to rural communities’ energy and water needs in her native land. She graduated in economics from Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) in 2004 and went to the US for postgraduate studies in New York.

Unlike many young people of her generation, Fariel returned to Pakistan and worked on national power policy as an advisor to the government. She was recruited by international development agency USAID to work on infrastructure power projects and policies and, in 2014, she consulted with the United Nations Development Programme in Egypt on energy efficiency for several months.

the remotest villages to work on microgrids, using solar power to provide lighting needs. She noted that basic necessities like water were missing. Thus began her social enterprise, Goats for Water. Working on-site in underdeveloped rural areas, it aims to supply livestock farmers with water solar energy in the form of home lighting. In the intensely harsh and desert terrain of Sindh, farmers’ only assets are goats, so Fariel lets them ‘pay’ in goats. The animals are kept on GFW farms and later sold for their meat. The

Subsequently, an opportunity with the Asian Development Bank took her to Indonesia in 2015, where, she proclaims, her “idea for Goats for Water crystallised”. She explains that she was working in villages building solar water pumps and wanted recipients to pay for the facility, “thus maintaining their sense of dignity and to instil a sense of value for the service.” But, she soon realised: “The villagers were so cash poor, they could only pay in goats!”

On her return to Pakistan, Fariel went into

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July/August 2018

move helps people become self-reliant and not depend on donations from government or charities.

To spread the service around the country Fariel has partnered with a number of NGOs and grass-roots organisations, including the National Rural Support Programme (NRSP) and Thardeep Rural Development Programme, which identify needy communities in the rural areas of Pakistan. Goats for Water goes and assesses what kind of water pumps or solar systems are needed; then outsources the work to experts.

Fariel’s proven track record in innovation has certainly grabbed attention. Earlier this year, she was invited to Bahrain to attend The Falak Unreasonable Thinking Summit in association with the Economic Development Board and supported by Tamkeen. This two-day forum was focused on innovation, disruption and out-ofthe-box thinking, to inspire and educate start-up entrepreneurs and the Bahraini business community in general.

Impressed by the business-friendly approach here, she is planning to register Goats for Water in Bahrain, to enable her to expand her work – in solar home systems – in countries like Somalia and Nepal, which are in dire need of such an enterprise and, apparently, easier to access from Bahrain.

Farial, right, with Mobeena

To learn g more about her organisation, visit www.goatsforwater.com www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

DEVELOPING TALENT Huda Mirza explains her role in developing young Bahrainis and what draws her to the hospitality industry.

H

ow long have you been with Sofitel? Your current role is as director of talent and culture – what does this entail?

I have been with Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, part of AccorHotels, for five consecutive years, evangelising an industry-wide shift encouraging youth to grow in the many different sectors of tourism. I hold a specialist degree in medicine and human resources management.

My role is a complex one because you have to pay attention to the company’s needs and goals while ensuring employees’ rights and needs are met. The department’s responsibilities vary from benefits and compensation to training and organisational effectiveness. I link my growth to the growth of my team across the resort. It’s important to understand the culture and subcultures that are unique, the direction the business leaders want to go in and the vision of the CEO, so that the talent-and-culture employee can assist in that journey. It’s a lot of listening at all levels.

Does this role allow you to pass on your own experiences to other women, and particularly Bahrainis who are seeking to make their mark in the hospitality workplace?

I proactively engage myself in communitybased multicultural youth mentoring and development opportunities. By mentoring young women, we raise the quality of life for everyone. As a mentor I encourage their ambitions, empower their confidence, and keep track by helping them set goals and work towards achieving them.

I believe you have a particular interest in Bahrainisation, can you outline the work you are doing in this respect?

The Kingdom’s long-term Economic Vision 2030 development plan highlights the need for diversification by increasing the number of Bahrainis in the workforce – Bahrainisation.

The plan also seeks to raise the standards of industrialisation, privatisation, training and education of the Bahraini workforce, establishing Bahrain as a regional centre for human capital. We are offering valuable www.womanthismonth.com

educational and training support to Bahrainis to stay engaged and become the future leaders of Sofitel Bahrain Thalassa Sea & Spa. As part of Bahrain’s economic diversification strategy, improving and promoting the country’s tourism industry stands high on the Kingdom’s agenda.

Outside of Sofitel, you also have a fashion line. What inspires you?

I enjoy a great work-life balance. Inspiration is everywhere, but when we’re in search of new ideas we like to turn to the fashion world. Like cake decorating, fashion is about making art out of something functional.

The latest texture trends and current colour forecasts for the fashion industry can be easily incorporated in almost every creative project.

I started Lala Helena fashion line for abayat and jellabiyat which is dedicated to elegant Arabic designs and is still undergoing further conceptualisation.

How do you find time to have a full-time career as well as being a mum and running another business?

Learning to balance work and being a mom

is a true test of my sanity and willingness to be a great mother and provider. The question that remains is, how do I balance both worlds?

I’m a woman who is always up for proving to myself how strong I truly am. Longer work hours: bring it! Let’s do this. I am ready! The fear of missing so much, whoa! Stop! That’s what I have to accept as my reality.

I’ll be honest, I’ve envied stay-at homemoms. They have the ability to see their little person grow at every moment and not miss anything. I wanted that, but, in reality, I couldn’t. Work had to be just as much of a priority as being a mother. I had to find that balance.

What’s next for you? Do you have any future plans you can share with us?

I see myself as strategic leader in the talent and culture domain, handling regional responsibilities. Talent and culture is often perceived as a support function whereas we are a key pillar in the organisation. I have vision and strategic leadership skills to be able to spot opportunities to seize.

July/August 2018

39

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Sana & Joanne

Kiki & Hanna

Iain & Sumaya

Chocolate Friday Brunch

Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain held a chocolate-inspired Friday brunch at its premises.

Karen

Cici & Ariel

Vlada & Yulia

Mรถvenpick Iftar Mรถvenpick Hotel Bahrain hosted an Iftar for the media.

Sossa, Shim & Noor Shafika, Sumaya, Laila, Victoria & Karim

Iain, Sumaya, Claire & Pasquale

40 July/August 2018

Kim, Brian, Rayland & Katrina

www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | vegan/veggie Bahrain

As of 2017, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation estimated that farmed livestock is responsible for 15 per cent of man-made greenhouse gases.

According to Mercy for Animals, animal agriculture accounts for twothirds of all fresh water consumption in the world today. thisisinsider.com reports that the American Heart Association recently stated that an animal-based, high-protein diet led to a 50 per cent higher risk of heart disease, compared to just 17 per cent from a plantbased high-protein diet. Other research has linked red meat specifically to cancers, diabetes and stroke.

Systematic reviews suggest those consuming a vegetarian or vegan diet are less likely to be obese.

It’s no surprise, then, that foodrevolutionnetwork.org says there’s been a 600 per cent increase in people identifying as vegan in the US in the last three years. According to a report by research firm GlobalData, only one per cent of US consumers claimed to be vegan in 2014. In 2017, that number rose to six per cent.

In the UK, the number of people identifying as vegan has increased by 350 per cent, compared to a decade ago, according to recent research commissioned by the Vegan Society in partnership with Vegan Life magazine.

Many, such as racing driver Lewis www.womanthismonth.com

GOING GUILT-FREE Hamilton and recording artist Ne-Yo, have been prompted to change their lifestyle after watching documentaries such as What the Health and Earthlings both of which deal with issues that include animal welfare and human health.

In the coming pages we feature a crosssection of women from across Bahraini society who share their inspirations for becoming vegan or vegetarian and answer questions on their lifestyle. We also chat to a pioneering chef who is servicing this growing market and round up a few surprising meatfree alternatives for you to try.

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FEATURE | vegan/veggie Bahrain

THE WIZARD OF VEG

This passionate chef tells Behnaz Sanjana about his vision of bringing healthy, plant-based food to the island, one nut butter at a time.

K

ostas Magoulas tasted success early in his career. He was chef de partie at acclaimed Athens restaurant, Hytra, when it was awarded a Michelin star. Determined and passionate, he quickly climbed the career ladder to become executive chef working on cruise liners and at hotels and restaurants across Greece.

A chance online collaboration with his present Bahraini partner brought him to the island. “We shared the same vision for providing the market with healthy food,” says Kostas. “Not many in the business take care of lactose- and glutenintolerant people, or vegans and vegetarians.

Seventy per cent of my repertoire is veggiebased. I simulate meat with plants and nuts.”

Together, they started Mylk & More, a small enterprise offering nut milks and cheeses, two years ago. “We quickly saw massive success. Our basic milks – almond, coconut, walnut, pistachio and cashew – were retailed to individuals and later to cafés to make nut milk lattes. We also offered customised options like almond vanilla, cashew milk salted caramel and our coconut cacao was a hit with kids. Some of our varieties catered well to Arabic tastes, like the pistachio, rose water and saffron or the iced gahwa latte. I’m also working on a coconut milk karak, using pure coconut sugar for taste.”

The beverages are home delivered in glass bottles with iron screw-tops, which are steamsterilised and reused. “Worn-out lids are compressed and sent back to our supplier to recycle. Clients are very receptive of the process that involves zero plastic and waste, and they get a bottle of nut milk free for every six bottles that they return,” he explains.

Mylk & More also offers dairy-free, nut-based cheeses and spreads. “Parmesan is made from either cashew or coconut. The mozzarella spread, also made of cashew, can be used on pizza or pasta, and tastes just like the original.

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We use turmeric to naturally colour dairy-free cheddar, and there’s also a lemon-blueberry cheesecake sans any lactose or gluten.”

These product lines have seen a pause in production, as Kostas has diverted his attention to his other budding concepts, and will resume in the coming months. Mylk & More’s kombucha, however, is readily available. “This fermented beverage has many health benefits. Our production and storage techniques take care to ensure that there is no sugar or alcohol in the final product as a fallout of the fermentation process. It is available at Roots Café, Hamala, Bustani Café in Argan Village and Seed at Nakheel Centre, Saar, and Riffa,” he says.

Besides consulting for restaurants, giving cooking lessons and associating with local brands, Kostas is busy with The Forge, the healthy food truck in Hamala. He elaborates: “It is high-quality food with everything being made from scratch – from the sauces to the desserts.

Our meat [when required] is sourced from the best of suppliers and is smoked in our classic 100-year-old stone oven. Our profit margins may be low, but we are committed to providing fresh, tasty and honest food that includes great vegan and vegetarian options. A regular cheeseburger elsewhere will give you around 700 calories, but mine will give you only 400.”

gourmet. “My version of spaghetti bolognaise, balaleet, radish greens and almond pesto, salmon nigiri, pulled jackfruit burger with ‘coco-slaw’, and beetroot kebabs will not leave you missing the meat,” he assures.

Kostas, who openly acknowledges his appreciation of meat, endorses a healthy equilibrium when it comes to eating it. “The problem is that we don’t know where to stop.

Our ancestors ate it sparingly. Humans are programmed to sustain on a plant-based diet. Of course, I respect the universal food chain, but there has to be a logical balance. Reducing our meat intake keeps us healthier and serves to reduce our burden on the ecosystem, which is the need of the hour,” he says. “I came to Bahrain to be a pioneer, not a follower.” And it’s evident he is doing just that.

Follow Kostas on Instagram @chefkostasmagoulas and @mylknmore

He has devised clever ways of making local and global favourites suitable for the mindful

www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE | vegan/veggie Bahrain

THE VEGGIE-VEGAN VIEW

What inspires people to completely change their lifestyle, whether as a vegetarian who gives up meat but may consume things such as eggs or cheese, or as a vegan who forsakes all animal products, including honey and, often, leather goods? Here, a selection of Bahrain residents, share their thoughts.

Eventually, I realised I felt best being vegetarian and continued with it.

You are a serious triathlete, how have you found this diet/way of life affects your training and performance and what sort of foods do you eat prior to training or for a big event?

ANASTASIA AGEEVA How long have you been vegetarian and why?

I have been vegetarian for 17 years. As a student, when living on my own, I felt like no meat and fish and enjoyed vegetables and fruit.

How long have you been vegan and why?

I’ve been vegan for one year and three months now. I switched from being a meat lover to complete vegan on April 3, 2017, for ethical reasons. I am vegan for all-around health and sustainability but I have stuck to it because I cannot and will not support the unnecessary exploitation in animal industries.

As a student, how have you found adapting the lifestyle to school, and is your family supportive?

I’ve found labelling myself as a ‘vegan’ did stir up much controversy in my private life.

Since I started triathlon only five years ago, it was my natural nutrition to be vegetarian. I felt well growing miles and endurance. However, the increased half-distance triathlon training highlighted that I was lacking in nutrients and protein. I was feeling fatigue and tiredness. First of all I started resting more; I also started eating eggs and cheeses for more protein; so now I am lacto-ovo vegetarian. I enjoy additional sources of protein in my diet.

Suddenly everyone became so involved in my lifestyle. My friends did not take it so well; they judged me and did not take me seriously and I cut them out in the process. My family, however, did support me because, as I learnt to cook for myself in this process, they saw that this new lifestyle helped me gain confidence and independence. Nevertheless, every time I sit with a group of people to eat, it seems that people like to demean me and my choices with their opinions and jokes. Extended family and school friends are usually the culprits. I take it all with a light heart, though, because I know it’s a non-traditional lifestyle that people may find amusing, and it gives me a chance to raise awareness.

How long vegan and why?

WAFA AL MOHANNA

www.womanthismonth.com

I became vegan on February 14, 2016. I have always never really liked meat, especially in local dishes where you can actually see full parts of the animal. However, I’d never heard of veganism before. I accidentally saw an Instagram account for Freelee the Banana Girl, and everything clicked after that. I decided to go vegan immediately, thinking I would try this for a few days and see how it works. A week passed by and I thought "this is easy let me do it for a month." During this month I started researching more into it. The more I knew, the more determined I became to continue.

You have lots of people following you on Instagram

Before the morning training I usually have some oats with honey and coconut oil, raisins, simple yogurt and some coffee with milk.

I enjoy recovering from training with extra hydration and an omelette with spinach and cheese. It can also be buckwheat full of protein or even cherries if I want a small snack only.

Before big events it's always recommended to stick to your normal diet to not 'surprise' yourself on a race day. So I fuel on rich salads full of goodness with seeds, nuts, fruits and veggies. Hummus is great for fuelling in the Middle East and dates are perfect for eating during long-endurance training.

You can find everything you need in vegetables and fruit. Broccoli is a happy veg full of protein for me which I love slightly cooked, still crispy, topped with toasted almond flakes.

Enjoy your veggies!

ATHARIE AL SALEM

at veggie_cafe_bahrain.

What do you think makes your page so popular and how do you come up with your recipes?

Being in Bahrain, I knew that it would not be easy, as, at that time, not many people were vegan.

Very few vegan products were available, so I mainly ate raw fruits and vegetables. However, with my research I discovered many vegan recipes that I could actually do myself. So I started with cheese and a few popular dishes like moussaka and biryani. I realised that any dish you can think of can be turned vegan, whether it's meat, seafood or chicken.

All this time I was posting what I

was doing on Instagram. People started following me and asking for recipes and to sell these dishes.

The more dishes I veganised, the more people followed. They also started asking me to give cooking lessons and to cook for them at private events.

I also started contacting major supermarkets to actually provide vegan alternatives in Bahrain, and spoke to a few companies in the GCC to see if they can sell some of their products here as well. Fikra, a vegan cheese alternative created by a pharmaceutical company in Kuwait, has decided to test the market through my account.

At the moment, I’m working on writing a recipe book so that all my dishes can be created easily and by anyone.

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FEATURE | vegan/veggie Bahrain

FERNANDA LANGHAMMER How long veggie/vegan and why ?

I have been vegetarian for about 12 years and became vegan one year and eight months ago.

I became vegetarian at first because I honestly never liked the taste and texture of red meat; giving up the other types happened naturally. Since I was very young, my mum says I had to be forced to eat it. When I was old enough, I decided it was better to just not eat meat any more.

When I decided to go vegan, it was a more planned step. After watching documentaries, talking to some people that had embraced this lifestyle and my family going vegetarian, it showed me that I was ready to go a bit further.

Thinking of how much other animals suffer to please our palates and getting information on how I could get a balanced diet helped a lot. I definitely eat much better now than ever in terms of nutritional intake. It’s one of the best decisions of my life! I feel great and now I am really adapted to the challenges of looking for replacements in my daily food intake.

KELLY HASSAN How long veggie/vegan and why ?

After giving up meat around four years ago and seeing changes in my digestive system, I was introduced to some documentaries from a very dear vegan friend of mine about factory farming and how animals are really treated. We are led to believe that in most farms all is OK, that the animals live a quality of life before

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You’re a mum of two. Are you bringing your kids up in this lifestyle and, if yes, how easy is it with school and kids’ events?

I'm the only vegan in the house. My daughter and husband became vegetarian two years ago. Our son, who is two-and-a-half now, has always been vegetarian. I cook vegan food for them, but we do have dairy and eggs at home and they add cheese to some of the food that I cook or eat a grilled cheese here and there.

Some people see it only as a diet, but as you said, it is a whole lifestyle, which makes it way easier to cope with. If you don't see yourself as the most important thing in the world and believe that all animals have the same rights, it is not that difficult. It is all about mindset in my opinion.

Regarding the events and school, my

ending up in our bellies, but it’s not true, it’s disgusting. They are not treated well at all and suffer for their entire lives. Once you watch Cowspiracy or Earthlings you cannot un-see what goes on and, for me, I just couldn’t contribute to that any more.

I have met some amazing people in my time being vegan, including my now boss, Khaled Alwaleed, who is an advocate for the animals and spends much of his working life making a difference for them and for our environment. With each new project he works on, more animals are being saved from lives of imprisonment and suffering. It’s so amazing to see the number of followers on his Instagram that are on the same page.

He recently, with partners, opened Plant Café in Hamala Hills where I spend a lot of my time. Not only is the food amazing, but the staff are beautiful souls that make the energy there very inviting.

How has this lifestyle affected your wellbeing?

I’ve been fully plant-based for around

daughter is old enough to choose what to eat. It was her choice to become vegetarian, so she deals with it very well. All her closer friends know about her food restrictions and always have something for her at birthday parties.

Food technology is a subject at school and most of the times the teacher gives her a veggie choice or, if not, he respects her choice and lets her work with someone else. In my son’s situation, the teacher is aware of our choice and kids are not allowed to share their snacks.

There are kids with allergies, so they are very careful. I kind of feel that Oliver is treated as if he is allergic to any type of meat, which doesn't bother me at all as long as they respect our choice. two-and-a-half years and I can safely say it’s the best thing I have ever done. I feel better in myself, I have more energy, the hormone issues I had have gone away and I see a huge improvement in my skin.

It didn’t happen overnight. It took time to change all my beauty products, cleaning items and clothing so it was all vegan and cruelty-free, but now it’s easy and I miss nothing from before.

I think people’s perception of vegans is that we eat lettuce all day and try to make others feel bad for their choices.

I am not judgemental. We all have our own journeys and ways we choose to live. But I would always urge people to do their research. If you want to consume animal products, just find out where it’s coming from. If it’s a place where animals are being treated badly, you will be consuming their fear and that’s only going to make you and your families sick.

Eating a plant-based diet is a life-changer.

I do not eat lettuce all day. My diet is filled with delicious food and I don’t stop eating.

Don’t believe me? Go to Plant café and you will see. Two words, chocolate cake!

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FEATURE | vegan/veggie Bahrain

LAHAN SPERINCK How long vegan and why?

I’m conscious of what I buy and avoid animal-tested products and any leather et cetera. But whatever I already owned from before, I decided to keep since the damage has already been done and getting rid of them won’t undo anything. It’s not too difficult to do this since there are lots of non-animal-tested options, in Bahrain especially, but vegan leather can be a little more difficult and ordering online is probably the best option. Needless to say, there’s a huge movement and an evergrowing demand for more vegan options in Bahrain, so it is constantly getting easier to be vegan, especially compared to what it was like three years ago.

I’ve been vegan for over three years now and initially decided to make the change for ethical reasons. It then became clear that there were health and environmental implications of consuming animal products and that gave me even more reason to stick to it for this long.

Do you also go animal free in other areas of life such as clothing and, if yes, how easy have you found it to adapt that to your lifestyle here in the Middle East?

How long have you been vegan and why?

I went vegetarian from at the age of 17 and transitioned into vegan from there.

During the early days of living in Saudi my husband pleaded with me to at least eat seafood as we were simply not able to go out to functions or meals at restaurants.

So everywhere we went I ordered the most expensive seafood dish on the menu.

After several lobster dinners, he suddenly became comfortable with me bringing my bananas and a bag of nuts along to eat in fancy restaurants.

I am vegan for a multitude of reasons.

I would have to say my main driver is environmental – there is a growing number of research papers which investigate the effects animal farming has on the workers, local communities and the land as a whole. I would encourage people to do their own research. Check the authenticity of the claims and ensure they

are backed with science. There is a lot of conjecture on both sides, so be sure to do your homework.

Being vegan is very trendy right now and while it’s great to welcome more people to the table, remember trends come and go.

So if you want to make it a change for life, be sure you know your stuff and believe fully in what you may choose to do.

What are your thoughts on the ever-increasing number of synthetic meat products coming onto the market?

Like many things in life, there is the good and the not-so-great that comes from anything new on the vegan market.

Synthetic substitutes may ease the transition of those wishing to become vegan. If you like munching on your big juicy beef burger, a beetroot version may not give you that same rush of joy. Opting

How long have you been veggie/vegan and why ?

SAMATHA MULLER www.womanthismonth.com

I'm from South Africa, a big meat-eating country, but have always tried to be healthy and active. I felt I care too much about animals and decided to stop eating meat and chicken about 15 years ago. I used to dive and catch fish, gut, clean and prepare them. But after a year I stopped eating anything with a face or pulse.

It’s not only killing them I don't agree with, it’s the way we mass produce them, abuse, mistreat and harm them while they're alive.

You become more aware of what you are eating and what products might contain animal parts, and you read labels more thoroughly.

LOUISE O’LOAN

for a version of your burger that is closely related to what you’re used to, without having anything animal in it, may just be the magic you are looking for.

At the end of the day it’s great that more choice is on the table. It’s up to the individual to decide what they might like to investigate and ingest.

Is this something you carry over into other areas of your life — for example, cosmetics and cleaning products and do you find it easy to find cruelty-free options in Bahrain?

I use natural products, organic, eco-friendly stuff, don't wear leather. Some products are available here, some are not found for a while, sometimes shops close down, but even if there aren't you can always make a plan, like using lemon juice to clean, et cetera.

You can always order products online, but it would be nice if there was more awareness of cruelty-free options and more availability here.

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FEATURE | veggie/vegan Bahrain

CARS

COWBOY BOOTS

OK, we know you’ve all heard of vegan leather alternatives, but we must admit to being somewhat loathe to part with our favourite battered old cowboy boots. If you’re anything like us, you need to check out katmendenhall. com the site of a Texas native who gave up meat but, also, could not bear to give up her boots. According to O, The Oprah Magazine, She now offers a great range of Western footwear that’s completely leather-free and 100-per-cent sustainable. Hand ‘em over.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Yes, there are even companies that specialise in fully vegan interior design. Emily Turnbull of London’s Studio Can Can, told qz.com that, just as with vegan foods, “no one has to feel deprived”. Even the iconic Eames lounge chair and ottoman are due to become available in faux leather through Herman Miller of London. Who’d have ever thought it!

DIAPER BAGS

Who even knew that this was, according to maker Azaria, what “every on-the-go mum needs”. To be honest, we’re sure there are plenty of pretty fabric versions out there but, a bit like the cowboy boots, if you’re wedded to the look of leather but also want to go animal-free, this may well be just what you’ve been waiting for. With its roomy interior, top opening for ease of access and handy backpack style, it’s super convenient and comes in a range of colours. And the diaper bag’s been so successful that the company is branching out into all sorts of other carriers.

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VEGAN SURPRISE!

Part of that ‘new car’ smell often comes from the leather seats but if you want your prancing horses under the bonnet, rather than in the upholstery, it seems, these days, that’s not too big an ask. Several luxury car makers have made vegan interiors an option and even Ferrari has introduced a premium leather-like material called Mycro Prestige in its California T!

So, we’ve heard that it’s not all about lettuce leaves, judgement and sackcloth and ashes, but the veggie/vegan lifestyle is also not all about food. There are animal products all around us and not just in the obvious places such as leather and cosmetics. We’ve come up with a few alternatives you might just want to try.

ART SUPPLIES

Yep, that’s right. From dried extract of bovine gall bladders, used to give watercolours their liquid quality, to fur, or rather hair, used in paint brushes, the bucolic image of artistic pursuits can be anything but peaceful for the unwilling critters involved in their production. But, with mounting pressure from the cruelty-free and vegan movements, and a whole heap of celebrity endorsements, the market is catching on. DaVinci and Holbein both produce gall-free watercolours that are available at many artist supply stores and e-commerce sites. Raphaël Kaërell synthetic sable comes out tops for animalfree brushes. And Faber-Castell markets all its products — from coloured pencils to jewellery-making tools — specifically as cruelty-free and environmentally friendly (the exception is beeswax crayons).

PIZZA

You might think this is a no-brainer and, to be fair, most pizzas can be made vegetarian friendly – you just hold the meat, right? But, if you want a vegan option NKD Pizza says: “NKD = Naked = Natural. That means no preservatives, no added sugar, no chemicals, nothing artificial. Our pizza is simply an honest diversity of allnatural whole food ingredients that taste better and are better for you.” And fully vegan (with vegan cheese) and gluten-free options are totally on the menu. www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Marise, May & Jeri

Campaign Launch

Heba, Mina, Sheila & Karen

Lulu Hypermarket launched its World Environment Day Campaign at its premises in Dana Mall.

HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Lulu management and guests

Juzer, Kaleem, Sajith, Shukoor & Ravi

Shikha, Nita, Karen & Ann

www.womanthismonth.com

Joy of Giving

Lulu Hypermarket conducted its Ramadan Joy of Giving community activity at Bab Al Bahrain.

Suresh & Siji

Roshan, Shibu & Shafi

July/August 2018

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BEAUTY | tips

NAIL THE SUMMER LOOK! With all the good vibes summer brings, it wouldn’t be fair to deprive your nails of some fun in the sun.

Suzanne Nicholas’ advice? Play with polish!

After browsing through a few nail art tutorials on Instagram, most of us are guilty of contemplating an attempt ourselves, then giving up because, well, the effort! I, for one, give up before I’ve even begun as soon as I see any design that involves the use of tape! If you’re anything like me and the prospect of that messing about deters you, here are some tape-free, easy-peasy nail art designs that are simple yet snazzy.

HYPE THAT STRIPE Stripes are in this summer, be they thin or thick. For near-perfect, super-thin stripes, invest in a fan brush.

• Paint your nails with a base colour, the lighter the better.

• Once it’s dried, dip the tips of the fan brush into a darker, complementing colour and lightly brush over your nails horizontally.

• Once dried, you can either stop here for a simple, stripy look or carry on with other colours in the same way to create a jazzier vibe. Your nails are your canvas, and you hold the brush – literally.

SPLATTER MATTERS For a quick yet artsy and quirky manicure, splatter nails should be your go-to.

All you need is a slanted make-up brush for the splatter effect, some nail polish remover and a few different colours.

• Paint your nails with a light base colour — white is ideal.

• Dip the bristles in the colour of your choice, then dip once in nail polish remover to thin the polish enough to splatter.

• Aim the brush at your nail and pull back

.. ..

on it so the paint flicks onto your nail.

• With a Q-Tip dipped in nail polish remover, wipe away any splatter on your hands.

(Tip: Cover the surface you’re working on, it might get a tad messy.)

TOP TIPS:p coat after you’re done to avoid Apply a to ails. for smooth n smudges and lours with co nail polish ur yo e n bi Com s to pop! summery hue green ty in m d - Peach an ht d lig pink - Mint blue an nude - Orange and er lv - Teal and si

OMBRÉ ALL THE WAY If you’re a fan of ombré nails, here’s the easiest way to get them without a trip to the manicurist.

• Apply two coats of your base colour to each nail then let dry.

• Paint the ombré colours you would like to use onto a make-up sponge and ensure the colours touch each other.

• Carefully apply the sponge to your nails until covered.

• Immediately afterwards, apply a top coat to further blend and smooth.

• After each application, add more polish as the sponge tends to soak it up.

• With a Q-Tip dipped in nail polish remover, wipe the area around your nails.

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showcase

MAKE-UP TRANSFORMATION Apple Sharma found herself effortlessly transformed from daytime casual to evening glam with a professional make-up session at Dessange Paris Bahrain.

E

very special occasion requires a unique look and that’s exactly what I’ve been seeking in time for my friend’s destination wedding in Cyprus. So, the chance to get some pointers from a make-up expert was exactly what I needed.

and brighten the look – this is something that can easily be replicated at home, but we don’t all take the time and it is so worth it. The final touch came with the lipstick, and since it was for an evening look, we chose a pinky-purple hue, as opposed to a day shade of lighter pink.

I’ve been scouring Instagram for weeks searching for inspiration. As a bridesmaid, I’ve been leaning towards something that’s a bit glamorous (for the wedding photos, of course) but not too over the top (you don’t want to outshine the bride on her big day!). So, when my make-up artist, Rosie, asked if I had a big night out or if I wanted something particular, I told her about the wedding and showed her some of my favourite looks. I was also meeting my fellow bridesmaids that evening, so the timing couldn’t have been better to see what they thought of it.

Having religiously followed all of Rosie’s instructions of “close your eyes, look at me, look down, up, sideways, smile slightly” et cetera, I had exhausted my patience and couldn’t wait to see the results. When I finally got to look at myself, I was stunned at the transformation. It took a while to get used to the eyes as I don’t usually go for the smoky look, but once I had gotten accustomed to it, I couldn’t stop fluttering my perfect lashes.

But the real affirmation came when I saw my girlfriends and they screamed in unison, “OMG, your make-up looks amazing!”

Rosie wrapped my hair to expose my face fully and set to work giving me a thorough cleanse and gently removing my make-up.

After a quick but effective massage to get the circulation going, she applied primer to prep my face creating a blank canvas to work on.

Next, she chose a light-coverage foundation to suit my skin tone and blended it perfectly giving me a wedding-ready, dewy complexion.

We’d established that my eyes would be the highlight, and Rosie suggested a gorgeous smoky brown-bronze to emphasise my eye colour. She explained that it was one of the best palettes for an understated look that would transition seamlessly from day to evening meaning I can feel confident throughout the event with just a minor touchup. With my eyes closed, I couldn’t see what she was doing but could feel her layering the different shades, and I felt quietly confident in www.womanthismonth.com

the movements of her expert hands.

She chose a black liner for my waterline and upper lid meticulously applying the product in the kind of steady, smooth line we all wish for and giving a slight winged effect for a touch of glam. Then came a set of disposable fake eyelashes and thoughts of wonky lashes stuck to my cheeks (that’s a whole different article) crossed my mind. But I needn’t have worried, I was in great hands. Deftly applying the lashes to my lids, Rosie swiped on a few strokes of mascara and I was miraculously in doe-eyed, full Bambi mode.

And the icing on the cake – all your favourite Dessange make-up products are available for purchase at the salon.

Call 17 713-999.

For my cheeks, a hint of peachy-pink blusher was dabbed on for a naturally flushed look, then Rosie used that professional’s trick of adding highlighter on my cheek bones, the bridge of my nose and chin to define my face July/August 2018

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BEAUTY | styling

STYLE STEALER Celeb stylist Asgar Saboo tells us how to recreate some of the summer’s hottest looks.

TEXTURED HAIR No Braids Required

COOL BEACHY WAVES

WET LOOK

The stylist says: “I am obsessed with the cool-girl mash up, textured hair look. It’s perfect for the office, a night out and summer festivals. With just a few steps required, I’m sure you will be obsessing over it as well.

Step 1: The main tip in getting this style right is making sure that your hair is healthy. It’s undeniable that every hairstyle looks best with zero split ends and healthy shiny locks.

Do a deep conditioning mask to ensure that healthy look.

The main rule here – it should look “random, messy and almost undone”.

Step 1: Prep your hair by spritzing with a heatprotecting spray.

Step 2:

Step 2: Separate your hair into 2.5cm sections and wrap each one round wide-barrelled tongs.

Remember the top tip here is the messier the better – so, don’t spend ages perfecting every curl.

Step 3: Use your fingers to soften up those curls by gently teasing through the lengths of hair.

Step 4: Add a touch of lightweight hairspray for manageable hold.

TOP TIP

Don’t spend too much time perfecting it; it’s supposed to look free with a mind of its own.

Divide the damp hair into two sections with a middle parting and add serum to the lengths. Take two medium-thick sections and create knots as you move down the hair. It will resemble a braid but with extra texture and efficiency.

Step 3: To achieve the cool-girl vibe – soften the style by pulling strands out at the temples.

Spray strong-hold hairspray to ensure your style lasts through the long office day, night out or festival.

TOP TIP

For extra texture use dry shampoo or texturising spray before knotting the hair.

The sleek wet hair look was one of the trendiest styles at the SS18 shows and now it’s gaining popularity off the runway as well. This simple but striking look is perfect for nights out and requires as little effort as that topknot bun.

Step 1: To keep your hair as sleek as possible – smooth the length with hair oil and blow dry back from your face.

Step 2: Apply texturising gel and comb through for a cool finish. Add some lightweight hairspray for extra but movable hold.

TOP TIP

Keep your make-up simple and sleek.

If you want, add bright lips for and extra dash of oomph.

A renowned figure among celebrities and a regular on red carpets, the name Asgar Saboo is synonymous with headlinegrabbing, style-worthy hair. He is trusted by supermodels Cindy Crawford and Twiggy, Hollywood actress Eva Longoria, as well as A-list stars including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone and the legendary Rekha.

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showcase JOZ SALON & SPA

HUMIDITY HASSLES

One of the most dreaded effects of humidity is what it does to your hair. But fear not, Joz Salon & Spa comes to the rescue and tells you how to deal with it salon style.

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ith summer in full swing, hot and humid days and nights are here to stay for quite a while. Joz Salon & Spa gets regular queries from customers that are on every fashionista’s mind. Here’s the Joz hairstylist’s advice.

a lightweight moisturising formula that will inject your hair with the hydration it needs, so that it doesn't soak up excess from the humid air.

My hair has a mind of its own when it's humid out, causing it to be a ball of frizz.

How can I keep it under control?

If your hair thickness is fine to medium, go for weightless shampoo and conditioner, or Biolage SmoothProof shampoo and conditioner if it's textured or on the thicker side. Pick non-oily, non-greasy shampoos and conditioners.

Here's the deal: If your hair has any kind of natural texture and you're trying to keep it frizz-free or straight, any moisture in the humid air will cause it to slowly revert back to its natural curly or wavy state and most likely frizz up.

The trick to controlling frizz and keeping your hair from puffing up is targeting the problem in the shower, with the right shampoo and conditioner. You'll want to use

I’m desperate to try a new formula. What do you recommend?

After you've created a solid frizz-fighting foundation with the right cleansing products, while your hair is still damp use a lightweight serum or oil, like Argan oil treatment from label.m. These formulas help control flyways, since the dimethicone contained in serums and oils acts as a humidity repellant.

Depending on your hair texture, apply it from the mid-length to the ends, if your hair is fine, and from roots to ends if your hair is textured or on the thicker side.

Once you've applied the necessary stylers, it's time to seal the cuticle, which will help lock the hydration in from the previous products used and keep any humidity out.

The easiest way to do this is to use a bristle brush while directing the heat from your blow dryer downward towards your ends (this helps the cuticle lie flat compared to rough drying without a brush, which can ruffle the cuticle and result in flyaways), and then hitting your hair with a cool shot of air all over to seal the cuticle. Just remember to make sure your hair is 100 per cent dry, as it is less resistant to humidity if it's still damp when you step out of the door.

Then, after you've styled your hair to your liking with the hot tool of your choice, use a super-fine, anti-frizz aerosol hairspray to lock in your style. Using a non-aerosol spritz could reintroduce moisture into your hair, causing you to be more susceptible to frizz, which you don't want.

Call 17 369-133, 16 031-120 or 17 756-449.

www.womanthismonth.com

July/August 2018

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BEAUTY | news

YSL Le Fuchsia. A signature collection for a signature colour, Le Fuchsia is inspired by the perfect pink of fuchsia silk, with lipsticks that saturate in radiant, satin stay-true colour. Tatouage Couture captures the spirit of fuchsia in addition to the limited-edition lipsticks, the complementing YSL nail lacquers, couture eyeliner and mascaras come in a colour crush of fuchsias which are perfect for those unafraid to make a bold style statement. Available at Sephora.

L’Occitane, Reine Blanche collection. With weddings in mind, L’Occitane has released a beauty prep guide using its Reine Blanche products.

To achieve flawless skin, take a three-step approach. First up is cleanse and tone selection using Illuminating Scrub, Illuminating Foaming Cleanser and Illuminating Toner. Take the second step to moisturise and illuminate with the Whitening Sleep Mask, White Infusion Cream and White Infusion Serum.

And finally, target and protect with the Illuminating UV Shield SPF 50 and the Illuminating Eye Care & Mask. Available at L’Occitane.

Wojooh & Beauty Bakerie Cosmetics. Cruelty-free indie brand Beauty Bakerie has joined the Wojooh family, offering a range of exclusive products including matte liquid ‘Lip Whips’, ‘Flour’ setting powder, ‘Neapolitan Eyescream’ eyeshadow palette and ‘So Icy’ illuminators. Expect long-lasting, waterproof and smudge-proof lips, a flawless matte look, super-pigmented, long-lasting eyeshadow shades and immaculate highlights. Available at Wojooh.

Grace Elizabeth for Estée Lauder. Declared the modern reincarnation of the original supermodel by Vogue, V Magazine and GQ alike, Grace Elizabeth is fast becoming an icon in her own right. The face of Victoria Secret’s PINK has now also signed with Estée Lauder as its newest global spokesmodel. The company’s Stephane de La Faverie says: “With her rise to the top of the fashion world in such a short time as well as her fantastic sense of humour, Grace is destined to bring a fresh attitude to the brand.” She will feature in skincare, make-up and fragrance campaigns across all media.

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Lancôme: L’Absolu Lacquer. A light, liquid lipstick with buildable colour intensity and an ultra-glossy finish, comprising a deft emulsion of oils and water. L’Absolu Lacquer has been dressing lips for 25 years in a palette of 30 shades, from nude pink through hot fuchsia and blazing carmine to deep burgundy. It now comes in a new pack with a precise applicator for powerful results. Available at leading retailers.

Skinade. Summer vacations are upon us and travelling can wreak havoc on your skin. This means applying moisturisers, using hydrating sprays and drinking plenty of water. Multitasking beauty products are a must, which is where Skinade comes in. The natural peach and mangosteenflavoured anti-ageing drink is available in 15ml travel sachets that can simply be diluted in water to ensure both you and your skin stay hydrated. Available at leading pharmacies.

www.womanthismonth.com

BEAUTY | news

Guerlain Abeille Royale Bee Glow.

Guerlain Météorites Summer 2018 Collection. The latest additions to the

Météorites range aim to reveal natural beauty by combining colour correction and radiance in an enticing explosion of shades. The pretty box is home to six pearls: pinks bring freshness to the skin, blues reduce dullness and greens diminish redness. Blended together they work with your own skin colour to give a semi-matte effect.

And for Météorites fans, there’s also a new perfume with top notes of bergamot and apple, heart notes of rose and violet, and base notes of white musk and woody scent. Available at leading retailers.

An anti-ageing and skin enhancing fluid in one, this ultra-fresh multipurpose product offers hydration while taking on the role of finisher, enhancing skin for those who do not wish to wear make-up. It also serves as a base and illuminates the face before make-up. And a little touch of Bee Glow after applying Terracotta powder creates a more natural finish. Available at leading retailers.

Lancôme Advanced Génifique Eye. Designed to

Gucci Guilty Oud. A contemporary rendition of an Oriental fragrance created from the signature notes of Gucci Guilty Absolute Pour Homme and Pour Femme, infused with the iconic resin of oud. Master perfumer Alberto Morillas reinterprets the Oriental oud olfactory category with top notes of rich blackberry, spicy pink pepper and elegant Bulgarian rose coupled with goldenwood, patchouli, cypriol, dark ambery notes, leather and natural oud.

Available at leading retailers.

awaken the eye area and visibly combat 10 signs of ageing, including texture, uneven complexion, elasticity, lack of luminosity, dark circles, and puffiness, this new cream smooths and brightens with a formula like a sleep concentration in a single application. It uses LightSmooth technology for immediate comfort, and a soft and silky feel.

Available at leading retailers.

FIFA World Cup 2018 Screening

Al Areen Palace & Spa held a live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2018 opening ceremony and football match at its Al Qasr Tent.

Hada & Salma

Nohaila, Hajar & Chaimae

Ameer & Urooj

Sami, Sami, Aysha, Gabrielle, Kris, Samer & Mahmood

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Cristina, Emmylou & Muna

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Sara & Dipti

Waqas, Fuad, Duaij, Ali & Khalid

City Centre Ghabga

City Centre Bahrain hosted a Ramadan Ghabga for the media at Furn Bistro at The Westin Hotel.

Rawia, Farheen & Claire

Ladies at the party

Flora, Rose, Nada & Shanjida

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Reem & Sitara

Farhin

Ladies Eid Party

Wani, wife of the Malaysian Ambassador, hosted a ladies Eid party at their residence.

Samira & Homa

Tosin & Jeanie

www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Noor, Mary, Jeanne & Glofel

Ramadan Media Event

Serena, Tamara & Savi

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain hosted an Iftar for the media at its Masaya Pavillion.

Jonella, Eline, Fatima & Neethu

Swayta

Maria, Pervaiz & Frosina

Joel, Harmeet, Shumalan, Kaizad & Kunal

Al Rashid Group Ghabga

Samer & Terence

Behnaz & Kaizad

Al Rashid Group hosted a Ghabga at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

Hafid, Ahmed & Mustafa

www.womanthismonth.com

Huda, Ali & Aisha

Jood & Joory

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LIFESTYLE | wellbeing

VERY VEIN

One of the problems that manifests with age, and wear and tear of the body, is gnarly-looking veins on the lower limbs. Behnaz Sanjana learns about the latest treatment options.

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ou eye a perfect summer frock that’s on sale and make a beeline for it. But do you hesitate and put it back on the rack, thanks to those unsightly veins on your legs?

Whether it’s spider veins or the somewhat ugly varicose variety, if you’re stumped about how to deal with them, read on for what our experts have to say.

“Veins return oxygen-depleted blood from the rest of your body to your heart, so it can be recirculated,” says Dr Khanimana Mareschova, who specialises in vascular medicine at the American Mission Hospital in Manama. “To return blood to your heart, the veins in your legs must work against gravity. There are multiple one-way valves in them that help keep blood flowing toward your heart.”

VARICOSE VEINS

All is well until these valves become weak or damaged, and blood can back up and pool in your veins. This causes them to swell, get bigger and tortuous, leading to what is known as varicose veins.

“Varicose veins are abnormal, swollen blood vessels. Associated symptoms are swelling in the legs, itching and a change in colour of the skin, a feeling of heaviness in the legs, and pain,” says Dr Mareschova.

“Factors like older age, multiple pregnancies, a positive family history, obesity or a job that requires long hours of standing increase your risk of developing

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varicose veins.”

As per the statistics available from the region, she estimates that every other female over 40 years of age suffers from some form of chronic venous insufficiency (CHVI), and the situation among male patients is also alarming.

This is not considered a very grave, debilitating disorder. But, if left untreated, CHVI can progress to painful ulcers, particularly near the ankles, says Dr Mareschova. “Ulcers are caused by longterm fluid build-up in these tissues, caused by increased pressure of blood within the

affected veins. They often get infected and are very difficult to treat.

“Occasionally, veins deep within the legs become enlarged and the affected leg may swell considerably. Any such sudden swelling needs to be examined because it may indicate a blood clot – a condition that needs immediate medical attention.”

Depending on their size and location, varicose veins can be treated with injections (sclerotherapy), a key-hole procedure using a catheter or a minor surgery. A combination of these is often used, she explains. www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | wellbeing She further elaborates: “A newer treatment involves inserting a long, thin catheter that emits energy – most commonly heat. The released energy collapses and scleroses [hardens] the vein. As the catheter is pulled out, the vein lumen [the hollow passageway through which blood flows] collapses. This procedure is usually performed via local anaesthesia in combination with sedation, where only the area around the vein is numbed. The patient can go home the same day.”

The average cost of removal of varicose veins depends on the location and extent of the condition, and the technique of treatment chosen. The success rate of the results, however, is very high.

Dr Mareschova says: “There's no way to completely prevent varicose veins. However, improving your circulation and muscle tone can reduce your risk of developing them.”

How to Keep Your Pins Perfect • • • • • • •

Exercise regularly Watch your weight Eat a high-fibre, low-salt diet Avoid high-heeled shoes and tight-fitting clothes (whenever possible) Elevate your legs while sitting and sleeping Change your sitting or standing position regularly In established cases of venous insufficiency, graduated pressure stockings should be worn.

SPIDER VEINS

Any vein can become varicose, but the ones in your legs and feet are most commonly affected as standing and walking upright puts increased pressure on the veins of your lower body.

Another condition of the blood vessels is telangiectasia, commonly referred to as spider veins for their fine, web-like appearance. They are clusters of small red, purple and blue blood vessels. They develop close to the surface of the skin and are typically seen on the legs and face, says Dr Salil Bharadwaj, who is a plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery consultant at the Bahrain Specialist Hospital. “Like varicose veins, spider veins are the visible manifestations of an underlying problem with reverse venous flow,” he says.

Dr Bharadwaj cites the predisposing factors of the problem to include heredity, one’s

occupation (nurses, hair stylists, teachers, and factory workers are consistently standing), obesity, hormonal influences of pregnancy, puberty and menopause, as well as the use of birth control pills.

“Postmenopausal hormonal replacement, a history of blood clots and conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen, such as tumors, constipation and externally worn garments like girdles, are also causes,” he says. “Seventy per cent of those affected are women, thanks to hormonal factors.”

Sclerotherapy and laser therapy are treatment options. “Sclerotherapy focuses on causing damage to the inner lining of the blood vessel by injecting it with a chemical solution that causes a blood clot that collapses, thickens or scars the venule. There’s usually no recovery time, although there may be some temporary exercise restrictions.

“Laser therapy uses pulsed or intermittent pulsed laser that targets the widened vessel and seals it. This usually involves little pain and has a short recovery period.” Both these procedures are done in the outpatient clinic and give patients minimum discomfort, he says.

“Treatment costs vary from BD30 to BD150 per session. Patients may need multiple sessions for complete resolution in a particular area. However, spider veins can develop in new places in the future.”

www.womanthismonth.com

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showcase PURE YOGA + CYCLE

HAVE FUN GETTING FIT Pure Yoga + Cycle offers clients a new and improved way of embracing fitness.

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stablished in 2006, Pure Yoga + Cycle (PYC) is currently the premier hot yoga studio and licensed spinning facility in Bahrain.

New proprietor, Fatima Batook, who is also the in-house spinning master instructor, is the owner of Tima in Saudi Arabia, the first Arab brand for fitness and sports apparel in the Middle East, which opened in 2015. She now introduces spinning in its original form for the first time in Bahrain.

PYC is located in Hamala, close to the British School of Bahrain and Batelco. It boasts new instructors, new offerings and a sleek retail area full of healthy and eco-friendly items. The outlet offers various styles of yoga, including Bikram, Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Odaka, Kundalini, Sivananda, Nidra, Rocketflow, Glow-in-the-dark, Yin, Restorative, Power and Crossfit Yoga to suit

The K Hotel Iftar

your needs. There are separate classes for males and females, was well as mixed groups.

Mats, showers, a changing area and towels are all available for your use.

So far, 2018 has been abuzz with success at PYC, with Glow-in-the-dark classes, Spin Yoga, kids' yoga, and celebrating International Yoga Day with an opendoor event offering free classes, health consultations and a mini bazaar.

With a warm and inviting atmosphere, PYC immediately puts clients at ease. In the pipeline are new sessions, corporate yoga classes, a weight-loss programme, workshops and new partnerships at the same, friendly place.

You can book your next class on the convenient booking system on the revamped website: www.pycbh.com.

Fatima, Neelanjana, Fatima, Banu & Kina

The K Hotel hosted a corporate and media Iftar at Kolors restaurant.

Yoga Class Volker, Rehana, Nitai & Shivanand

Nitai, Behnaz, Anuradha & Raquel

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Pure Yoga held free yoga classes to mark International Yoga Day at its premises in Hamala.

Neelanjana, Hency & Banu

www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | food

FEAST FIT FOR A KING Bill Grieve checks out the legendary brunch at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain.

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egend has it that the great feasts at Camelot Castle, home of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, stretched from sunset to sunrise and to sunset again and again. And, according to the tales told, the food was a never-ending flow of extravagant culinary treats which impressed the king and amazed all others.

If ever there was a modern-day example of just such a glorious feast, it would have to be the construction-themed Friday Brunch at the Mövenpick Hotel where the restaurant becomes a literal F1 circuit of food stations, each adorned with a treasure trove of treats starting with a full English breakfast bar with all the trimmings, and then passing a hearty roast meat stand complete with a superb selection of sauces and gravies as well as Yorkshire puddings, the like of which Winston Churchill probably had in the back of his mind when he proffered the advice: “Never give in, never, never, never, never ever give up…”

Inside the main dining hall, a full market offering of select meat cuts and spectacular large oven-cooked roasts, each with their own entourage of side dishes and trimmings, is displayed and easily and quickly served. The incredible odours of the roasts waft on the air as beckoning as sea sirens in song.

Guests are presented with a literal port of seafoods in several 'docks' offering a wide range of ornately laid out dishes. With this popular Davey Jones’ locker of select seafoods tantalisingly prepared, offered and displayed and almost an urban legend already, the Mövenpick chefs have certainly gone fathoms further than necessary. Whitefish, shellfish, crustaceans, molluscs, crumbed fish dishes www.womanthismonth.com

pudding exactly the way it’s supposed to be.

All around are drink stops and corner pit stop stands offering and speedily serving every possible permutation of beverages and drinks imaginable.

The abundant friendly courteous service staff skilfully weave their way in and out of the fray, reminiscent of competition-standard ice skaters — graceful, fast and always elegant, quickly performing the magic of serving drinks, food and necessaries.

and other mouthwatering ocean delicacies are all accompanied by their own special related side dishes and sauces which act in unison to satisfy even the most discerning guest palates.

Speciality dishes and on-demand seafood cooking are a rare choice on offer. So, if you don’t see what you want – try asking for it.

A live band, skilled balloon artists and theatrical-type events all happening simultaneously, bring a full-on carnival atmosphere to the brunch, and as time quickly passes and the heaviness of excess eating sets in, one is reminded that it’s nearly time to leave. As the event begins to draw to an end and the inevitable drowsiness from enjoying a fantastic brunch sets in, the unforgettable words of Arnold Schwarzenegger come to mind. “I’ll be back…”

The sushi bar stands prominent and proud with almost art gallery-worthy creations which can be seen in all stages of preparation and special requests catered for.

A sweets and desserts paddock that would make Willy Wonka and the Oompa Loompas turn green with envy is a favourite with young and old alike, offering something for everyone with a fantastic bread and butter July/August 2018

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LIFESTYLE | food

CHEF’S SPECIAL

Glen Ian Padiyar, who first entered the kitchen as an intern at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, can attest to the pay-off of hard work driven by passion.

CORN-FED CHICKEN WITH BURNT CORN, MUSHROOMS AND SPINACH INGREDIENTS

• 2 corn-fed chicken breasts, French trimmed • 100g sliced button mushrooms • 1 red onion, small, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 corn on the cob, blanched

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escribing the kitchen as “art in a chaotic environment”, he claims that he fell in love with the “chaos and shouting, and the pressure of delivering food with so much precision”, despite his parents’ urging that he should work in hotel's front office.

With a culinary education in the UK, he later drew experience from distinguished London establishments, such as the Charlotte Street Hotel and the award-winning M Restaurant, and inspiration from the notable chefs he worked with including Robin Gill and Mark Jarvis., His style of cooking is seasonal and local. Additionally, he claims that with a huge range of upcoming cuisines, it “pushes one to be more creative as a chef”. He continues: “I believe, as chefs, we have a responsibility to educate our guests and new staff to be ethical and respect the world around us. It’s been my dream to train

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METHOD

chefs not to be afraid of getting your hands dirty by growing and picking fruit and vegetables. I keep in touch with my suppliers constantly to make sure they provide my free range, organic products, though it’s a bit of a challenge here so far.”

He says budding chefs will inevitably face trials but insists the satisfaction this career brings is incomparable. “Be passionate and cook from your heart,” he encourages.

To get a taste of Glen’s passion, he shares with us a simple but oh-sotasty recipe.

• Start by cooking the chicken. Place it in a warm pan with some olive oil, skin side down. Season it in the pan with salt and pepper.

• Seal the chicken all the way round. Place it skin side down and cook in a preheated oven at 180˚C for 12-15 minutes.

• Once cooked (you can check by probing the centre), take it off the pan and leave to rest on the side under foil.

• Using the same pan (you should have all the cooking juices and fat from the skin left over), add the sliced button mushrooms, onions, garlic and sauté.

• Add the spinach and

• 200g spinach, washed and drained • 100ml cooking cream • 50g grated parmesan • Splash of olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • 20g chopped parsley • 10g chopped tarragon

continue to cook for two to three minutes.

• Add the cream and season.

Boil for a few minutes till the sauce thickens.

• Take the corn and use a blow torch or just use the naked flame from the gas to burn it (like you would do on top of a BBQ).

• Cut off the corn from the cob and add to the creamy sauce.

• The rested chicken will have some resting juices that you can add to the sauce for more flavour.

• Finish with grated parmesan and chopped herbs.

• Slice the chicken, place on a plate and add the creamy sauce. www.womanthismonth.com

showcase THE K HOTEL

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INDO-PAK FOOD FESTIVAL

akistan and India have a very rich culture and share the passion food, music, culture, art and architecture. Experience the taste of both countries as the K Hotel celebrates their independence days.

The Indo-Pak Food Festival will take place at The K Hotel from August 13 to 15 at KOLORS. The restaurant will be transformed with the colours of India and Pakistan and festivities will start with traditional dhol and bhangra music.

On Pakistan Independence Day, August 14, the country’s cuisine will be highlighted with its refined blend of various regional cooking traditions including delicacies such as tawa, tandoor, and kadai including chapli and spicy shami kebabs, murg malai boti, tandoori aloo and at the live counter, haleem and bhuna gosht.

To mark Indian Independence Day, on August 15, KOLORS will take guests on a journey through the subcontinent’s rich culinary heritage

with dishes such as Hyderabadi biryani, almond saffron pulao, lobster masala, Goan fish curry and other delicacies.

There will be a range of traditional desserts representing both countries to finish off the feast.

Do not miss the daily raffle draw, where you have a chance to win; one of the prizes will be a stay at The Separated by borders but K including the connected through cultures, fabulous Brunch.

get a taste of both countries

“The Indo-Pak as the K Hotel celebrates Food Festival 2018 their independence days. is inspired by the very people of India and Pakistan who love to please their palates with their traditional cuisine,” says general manager Volker Mandlowsky.

The festival costs BD7.500++ per person and runs from 7pm to 11pm daily.

Call 17 360-000.

Men’s team winners receiving their awards from chief guest Mohammed Al Rayes

Women’s team winners

The Young Goans Club, Bahrain, held a football shootout match at Dasman Ground, Gudaibiya.

Football Shootout

The Women’s teams with their certificates

www.womanthismonth.com

Shiranthi, Rina & Lourdina

Leena, Sofia & Rina

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LIFESTYLE | home

EASY-BREEZY S

unlit rooms, rustic accessories, textures of the beach and the myriad hues of sand in the ocean – that’s the contemporary Mediterranean look for your home this summer. This décor theme borrows inspiration not only from the brilliant coasts of southern Europe, but also northern Africa (think baubles from the souqs of Marrakech) and a little bit of Western Asia (oh, the charm of handpainted Turkish ceramics!).

White stucco walls, wooden beams and ornate archways may call for a major overhaul, but there are easier ways to bring the happy, sun-drenched atmosphere of the Mediterranean to your space. Take your cue here!

Marine Marvels Rugs Illulian

Inspired Mediterranean décor, as seen on HGTV's Property Brothers

Sink in Comfortably

Tub chair and Ottoman Home Box

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www.womanthismonth.com

LIFESTYLE | home

Beauty in Functionality Partition Angelo Cappellini

Congenial Crockery Tableware H&M Home

Step It Up

Chest of drawers Giorgio Collection

Scaly Tales

Bottle opener H&M Home

Get Lost in Thought

00000000000000000 Earthy Blues

Armchair Smania

Tray Home Box

Good Luck Charm

Cool Container Vase Home Box

Centre table Insidherland

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Solitary Seat

Bench Angelo Cappellini www.womanthismonth.com

Waves

Side table Smania

Aquamarine Votive Home Box

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FEATURE | staycations

A TICKET TO SUMMER TREATS Too broke to fly off to an exotic destination? Can’t get away from work in the summer?

Fret not — what you need is a staycation. Whether you are a beachcomber, or someone who likes an urban retreat, hedonism is yours for the indulgence right here in Bahrain.

From spending days by the water’s edge to revelling in exciting opulence – you can do it all without having to worry if you’ve left your passport back home.

HAWAR BEACH HOTEL

Islanders and visitors typically make a day trip to the archipelago of Hawar Islands, located in the Gulf of Bahrain, but if you’re looking for full-blown beach fun, it's recommended you stay a night or two. The rooms and public areas are known to be neat and tidy, and customer service amiable. This is the place that’ll make you feel you’re on a real holiday away from Bahrain, with azure sea and skies, exotic bird and animal species to sight and water sports to indulge in – all under an hour away by sea.

Call: 17 849-111.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN

This haven of five-star luxury is the perfect escape from everyday life. Its bay-front location, pristine beach, picturesque marina and inviting spa make it an ideal holiday hideout. Eleven dining outlets offer guests a wide range of delicious cuisines to pick from and the luxury factor of the hotel resides in not only what can be seen, but also in what patrons feel within this enclave of fine hospitality. Summer at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, brings you irresistible offers on tariffs, dining and spa. Bahrain’s residents can rejoice in the discounts they can enjoy on many of the hotel’s amenities, while the children will love their own mini vacation at the Ritz Kids Club.

Call: 17 580-000.

ART ROTANA HOTEL

Located on the dreamy Amwaj Islands, the hotel has 311 luxurious rooms and suites, all of which give their occupants panoramic sights of the azure waters. This is a haven for families that appreciate the splendour of modern luxury. The exceptionally designed building has eight international outlets serving a range of delectable fare. Immerse yourself in tropical revelry as you enjoy the exclusive benefits of ART Rotana’s very own Beach Club. Guests can enjoy various water sport and fitness activities or simply unwind at the spa.

Another great option is to escape to the tranquil and secluded waterfront oasis and experience what true five-star luxury is all about.

Call: 16 000-111.

CORAL BAY RESORT

This one is a household name, but then, old is always gold. This sunny resort offers a perfect mix of relaxation, exciting activities, recreation and absolute fun. Coral Bay Resort has a marina, a serviced beach, a wellequipped health club and offers water sports activities and boating. Its restaurants – Rayes for Lebanese delicacies, and Blue Water Grill for sumptuous steaks, seafood dishes and more — are well known for delicious food. This is the only place in Bahrain that offers the unique experience of staying in a floating hotel. The C Hotel is all about luxury, boutique accommodation bobbing on the blue waters, conveniently separated from terra firma by an automatic bridge. Pop into the resort’s spa and salon for a muchneeded session of pampering.

Call: 17 312-700.

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www.womanthismonth.com

FEATURE |

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

This one is known for its sophisticated services as much as its iconic structure. Towering high on its own exclusive island, the property exudes a magnetic personality of its own. It is an excellent option for an urban getaway, providing patrons with superbly appointed rooms, high-class facilities and impeccable assistance. Some of the world’s internationally acclaimed restaurant brands call this establishment home, so be sure to try out a gourmet meal at one (or all) of them.

The spa provides relaxing treatments inspired by Middle Eastern and Asian healing therapies designed to make you feel as good as new. And the property is also adding a private beach.

Call: 17 115-000.

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA This idyllic hotel is a destination by itself.

Set in a mystical desert locale, it offers an ambience fit for royalty. Indulge yourself by checking in to one of the sprawling property’s private pool villas; it’ll be an experience that you will always cherish. The various amenities offered here ensure that you do not need to step out of the gates for

anything. Awaken your senses at the hotel’s fabulous spa and take advantage of the various wellness packages on offer. Eat at any of the property’s romantic dining spots or private gazebos to satiate your taste buds, or, opt for in-villa dining if you prefer.

Call: 17 845-023.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

This stunning beach-front resort engulfs you in a world of French hospitality – one that you will find difficult to come away from.

With its fairytale setting, luxurious rooms and five-star amenities, it is a memorable getaway for couples and families alike. There are fantastic dining and nightlife options – from award-winning seafood and Arabian specialties to belly dancing and live music.

To give yourself the ultimate staycation, opt for the six-day spa package. The hotel’s Thalassa Sea and Spa is the only place in Bahrain where you can experience the healing power of seawater from the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy massages and therapeutic treatments like oxygen bubbles and seaweed wraps that use highend Aquascience products.

Call: 17 636-363. www.womanthismonth.com

WYNDHAM GRAND MANAMA

Floor-to-ceiling windows, breathtaking scenes of Manama’s skyline and warm hospitality amidst world-class design — this sums up the elegant property that debuted in Bahrain Bay not so long ago. The hotel is housed in an architectural marvel, offering 19 floors of plush accommodation, superior amenities and comforts for the discerning guest. There are various room configurations to suit different tastes and budgets. The warm service affords guests the right balance of friendliness and privacy, making it your cocoon to unwind in. Relax in any of the three pools or the sauna, and follow it up with gourmet onsite dining. You’ll be raring to take life by the horns after this brilliant break.

Call: 17 116-116.

JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY

This grand manor-like establishment recently opened its doors to guests in Bahrain. It is characterised by a great blend of quintessentially Arabic hospitality and international hotel standards.

Perched on a private beach in a new part of Seef, it is replete with bespoke details, a welcoming demeanour and understated luxury for the discerning guest. The Palm Lounge is a spacious outlet in the lobby, boasting one of the island's most breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Laze around at the pool (you can book your own cabana for the day for ultimate privacy) or the hotel’s beach.

If exercising is your thing, work off your stress at the hotel’s wellequipped gym, while the youngsters stay busy at the Kids' Club.

Call: 77 707-070.

July/August 2018

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LIFESTYLE | travel

EASTERN ADVENTURES This month we head to the jewels of the Orient to explore a trio of countries that are still relatively unspoiled.

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July/August 2018

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LIFESTYLE | travel

No matter how splendid you imagine the Kuang Si Falls to be, you will be dazzled in person.

In a world of inevitable change, Laos manages to retain some serenity and mystery. As part of the Indochinese peninsula, Laos offers a great deal to sate the experience-hungry tourist. Often overlooked in a hurried visit, Luang Prabang encompasses sites galore and should be on your ‘to-do’ list. A tuk tuk can take you to the Kuang Si Falls, a picturesque waterfall unlike any other, wherein a hike behind the falls leads to almost magical hidden pools and more waterfalls. Among other extraordinarily constructed temples and religious sites, you will marvel at Xieng Khuan, the iconic Buddha Park in Vientiane

Laos

boasting more than 200 religious statues of both Hindu and Buddhist religions, contrary to its name. For a beautiful panorama of the city which does not disappoint, if you rise to the challenge, you’ll climb the 355 stairs of Mount Phousi.

After sunset, take a stroll through the vibrant evening market, where stalls line the entire length of the road selling scrumptious street food, including laap, the country’s national dish. Take the chance to experience polite haggling for local items such as handmade Lao silk, handicrafts and pretty paper lanterns.

That Luang, a large gold-covered Buddhist stupa is something else entirely, with a 45 metre tall stupa and believed to hold a relic of Buddha.

The Patuxai Victory Monument, typically Laotian with five elaborate towers is part of the Vientiane skyline, and a charming one at that.

Witness 200 statues of both Buddha and Hindu gods.

Manoeuvring your way among the crowd at Luang Praband Evening Market will make finding stalls that offer something different a lot more rewarding.

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A delicious must-try when in Laos; laap is a traditional salad with meat, often served with sticky rice.

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LIFESTYLE | travel

Dragon Bridge in Da Nang is not only a tourist attraction but also a symbol of success.

Vietnam

Vietnam, in all its tourist-attracting splendour, is a nation with a bloody and war-torn past. Ho Chi Minh City Museum and The War Remnants Museum serve as grim reminders and are informative to the tourist intrigued by Vietnamese history. A walk through these museums will tell you great stories you are unlikely to have heard before.

Contrary to the disconcerting feeling of the museums, Sapa, a small mountain town in the Lao Cai Province, is one that will leave you breathless at its natural beauty. If you are up for an endurance-testing trek, the view from the top of Fan Si Pan, the highest mountain

in Vietnam, is a rewarding one. Hoang Lien National Park, home of this mountain, also boasts various animals; some endangered.

Nature lovers and those who cherish tranquility will definitely appreciate this Vietnamese town.

Also head to Da Nang where the aptly named Dragon Bridge is a sight to behold at night, when illuminated with vivid LED lights. On weekends and special occasions, the grandeur of the magnificent dragon breathing fire is a site that will stay with you long after you leave.

With authentic Vietnamese restaurants serving this in other parts of the world, you must try pho, a broth which incorporates rice noodles and mostly beef.

Offering a true Vietnamese experience, Ben Thanh Market in Ho chi Minh City is the place to go to satisfy your shopping cravings.

The War Remnants Museum is famous for telling war stories, not just from the local point of view but also from US sources.

Spend a day at Phú Quốc, Vietnam’s largest island, which entertains both backpackers and those looking for a luxury getaway.

Sapa attracts visitors with its forest treks, paddy fields, highland tribes and serene beauty.

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You will want to try a Banh Mi sandwich, traditionally French-Vietnamese, with sweet and sour ingredients that complement each other perfectly.

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LIFESTYLE | travel

Kick back and unwind at Otres Beach.

Catch some rays or swim in perfect waters.

No trip to Cambodia is complete without viewing a traditional Khmer performance.

Cambodia

Although less visited than Vietnam, Cambodia’s famous temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat, draws thousand of tourists every year. Visit to see first-hand the soul of Cambodia and the largest religious building in the world. Detailed carvings tell fascinating mythical and historical stories and, although there are over 200 temples in Angkor, Angkor Wat is the country’s fiercest source of pride.

This Southeast Asian nation will leave you overwhelmed as you discover parts of the ancient kingdom, come across traditional Khmer performances and stun your taste buds

with succulent Fish Amok, steamed coconut fish in banana leaves.

Otres Beach in Sihanoukville is a divine spot with golden sand and incredibly calm, blue waters. Further along, Mushroom Point offers mushroom-shaped bungalows and plush sun loungers for those who wish to enjoy the sun and surroundings. If you’ve decided Cambodia is the final stop on your Indochinese tour, Otres Beach is where you should lazily draw an end to your stay, stretched out on a hammock with a cool drink in your hand — one that matches the orangey-red hues of the setting sun.

Hit Condor Reef for one of the best diving spots in Cambodia.

A quintessential Kep experience, follow the Khmer crowd for the best places to enjoy some fresh crabs fried with Kampot pepper.

Pay a visit to the quiet terracotta structure, National Museum of Cambodia, which boats the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpures.

Visit Angkor Wat and be struck by its aweinspiring ruins that still tell tales of the past.

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Experience the luscious flavour of Fish Amok, a dish intended to be spoken about.

www.womanthismonth.com

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Around Town

Marriott International celebrated its ninth annual ‘Iftar for Cabs’ initiative.

Nepresso invited the media to its launch of two limited edition coffees, Ispirazione Salentina and Ispirazione Shakerato, at its boutique in City Centre Bahrain.

Joz Group held its annual Iftar party at the Elite Resort and Spa.

The Woman This Month team took part in the Clothes for Compassion campaign by Al Rashid Group.

Arnavaz Siberell, wife of the American Ambassador, hosted a ladies Ramadan Majlis.

The British Embassy invited more than 40 Hindu ladies to its premises on the occasion of ‘Vat Savitri Pooja’. www.womanthismonth.com

July/August 2018

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LIFESTYLE | opinion

THE HOLINESS OF MARRIAGE: MYTH OR TRUTH?

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani on the joys, and otherwise, of a sacred union.

M

ost women, when they come into a marriage, have very high expectations. They feel that life will somehow turn pink because now they are going to live as fairytales make us believe: “Happily ever after.” With all the romantic movies, the chick flicks, the pictures every married couple is bound to post on social media platforms, we form a very different idea from what marriage truly is.

Marriage has been looked at as sacred and holy. In all religions, ending a marriage is, almost, a sin. However, and with all what society forces us to believe, the statistics are showing otherwise. No one ever enters a marriage with the intention of getting a divorce – no one! Yet wherever you go, people are getting divorced. Homes are being destroyed, children are being dragged from one home to another, and life is never the same after that, for every person involved in this dilemma.

Marriage, if done right, is a true source of happiness. It is knowing that, no matter what happens, your partner is going to hold your hand and tell you that it will be OK. Marriage is knowing when to back off and when to move forward; it is knowing

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your partner and accepting their flaws; it is seeing the worst of them yet loving them anyway. It is a daily struggle to make sure you both are on the same page. It is a work in progress, as we all are.

The person you were when you met your partner is not the person you are today.

You have changed and so have they, and, so, while this continuous changing and evolving is happening, your marriage is also moving forward. It is your responsibility to keep track of things because, if you don’t, with every passing day a bigger gap will form and you will end up becoming strangers in your own home.

Marriage is a different kind of love; it is a love that is strong, free of doubts, joyful even in the most mundane situations. It is a love that gets tested every single day, and whether it makes it through the day or not, depends on how well we communicate, how open are we with each other and with ourselves.

What if from now on we look at our marriages as the most normal, common and ordinary thing? How about taking all the pressure off and remembering that you and your partner are two different people, but you are always on the same team?

Live life as it presents itself. Forget what society thinks, or how everyone expects married life to be all smiles, giggles and flying hearts. Forget the need to show you are happy and just live, just be! Ignore what people will think of you if you don’t see your marriage as holy, and just accept the challenges this union brings. Talk about the struggle, the hard work, and the great deal of communication it takes to live in harmony.

Don’t worry if, by society’s standards, you are doing something wrong by not forcing yourself to fake it. Be real for yourself, for your partner and for your family. Articulate your worries, fears and dislikes. Talk about how crappy some days are, speak up about the bad days and how sometimes all you want to do is leave.

Be real, be normal, be you. Respect your partner even in the middle of a war; yet let your emotions out as freely as can be, without worrying about what your friends, neighbours, or family might think. Respect, honour, and immerse yourself in the goodness of your marriage by embracing the bad before the good.

Chanelmama www.womanthismonth.com

Star

horoscopes

Gazing

Leo

Raphael tells us what’s written in the stars this month

Just when you thought things were going to be financially strained, a stroke of good fortune will turn everything around and save you from a rather embarrassing situation. This doesn’t mean you can afford to go wild; simply that you will be able to carry on without any short-term worry.

Finally, in August you could find yourself facing up to a tricky family visit.

Virgo

The dust has only just settled on a family dispute when you could find yourself having to deal with another major headache in the form of an invoice through the post that will take a big bite out of your savings. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be any way past it and you will have to simply ‘bite the bullet’. You could also do with a holiday and it would be wise to perhaps get away and relax somewhere far from the challenges of every day.

Libra

August will find many of you in a philosophical frame of mind as you come to terms with a struggling relationship. It’s going to require a great deal of discipline and determination on your part to make some headway with the person concerned, but if you are both in agreement then you should be able to reach a happy medium. On the relationship front, you are an emotional sign at heart and work best when your feelings are free-flowing and satisfied.

Scorpio

August is set to herald significant changes as you take control of your life and set events in motion that will alter your working environment for a long time to come. After months of dissatisfaction, you will turn the corner and move into a much more positive stretch of development. How you deal with this will go a long way towards determining just what you achieve but the good news is that your destiny is in your own hands.

Sagittarius

As has been said on countless occasions, the course of love is never a steady one and we can each of us expect to encounter our fair share of lows along the way, no matter how close we might be to someone. It is therefore going to be difficult for you to accept the magnitude of a partner’s revelation this month, and there will be a few tears of hurt before your www.womanthismonth.com

emotions harden and the lion within you charges to the fore. After that, with a much harder attitude, you will set out to resolve the situation.

Capricorn

If some of you have been feeling a little down or dissatisfied, then perhaps now is the time to think about flinging off those tired restraints that are holding you back and aiming high in pursuit of your ambitions.

The chance to revolutionise your life is just around the corner but, if you fail to follow your instincts, it could be a long time before the opportunity comes around again. If a half-hearted relationship is the main reason for your hesitation, then you need to weigh up matters carefully.

Aquarius

You have been extending yourself financially over the last few months to alarming degrees but the time has now come for you to start exercising a little more restraint and accept that not everything in life can be achieved immediately. Whilst you may want your own way, you must learn that you can’t always get it. Much to your chagrin you will have to accept the situation and move on. A valuable lesson will be learned if you can bear to listen.

Pisces

The next few weeks will present you with some difficult choices – many of which will have a lasting effect on your life – so make sure you think carefully about what you really want before committing to anything or anyone. You have been feeling pressured by your situation and the demands of those closest to you lately, so, if the truth be told, the best thing you can do right now to sort your head out is to take a break away from it all.

Aries

In the grand scheme of things, this month might initially feel a little unremarkable

but there are events going on in the background that will only become apparent later. Possibly the biggest episode could be connected to a simple appraisal that opens up a career opportunity you will not have even considered. On the relationship front, a ‘throw-away’ comment might also come back to haunt you.

Taurus

Holidays are going to be the big focal point for many Taureans this month as you unload the stresses and pressures of a particularly tough few months to grab some relaxation.

There’s no question that you have pushed yourself hard over the course of the year and, while you’ve enjoyed huge success, it hasn’t been without some cost. So, turn off the phone, power down the laptop and disconnect yourself from work and take a break.

Gemini

Your head will be filled with thoughts of travel and itchy feet will soon see you answering the call of the travel agent. And it will be while you are out of the country that you encounter a red-haired individual who will offer you the chance to make a lot of money on a speculative venture. No matter how convincing (or alluring!), you should be wary of being taken in by an argument that may not be fully realised.

Cancer

You have suffered a few knock-backs to your confidence recently. Though you may not be relishing the new responsibilities you’re about to face, in the long term this will aid your return to a level of strength and stability. Don’t look upon what lies ahead with trepidation or concern but instead embrace the challenges as opportunities. You have a natural and untapped talent, which needs a stimulating environment to bring it to the fore. This is your chance to thrive.

Raphael July/August 2018

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last word

In Her Shoes

Anan Elkady, marketing and communications manager at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain gives us a small glimpse into her world.

Three things you don’t leave home without?

My mobile, my lipstick and part of public relations life is carrying my business card holder all the time.

Favourite thing about Bahrain?

The cheerful people and the diversity of cultures, and the island has something for everyone from historical sightseeing and cultural spots to luxurious shopping malls.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird.

Anan Elkady

Song guaranteed to get you dancing?

One thing that makes you happy?

Travelling.

Any deep house track or any song by Sia.

Favourite film of all time?

500 Days of Summer.

Scariest thing you’ve ever done?

Spender or saver?

Unfortunately a bad spender.

What skill would you like to have or learn?

I wish one day I could play violin.

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When I was a kid I leaned over my grandmother’s third-floor balcony fence.

The scary thing is that it felt as if half of my body was in the air. Fortunately, my uncle picked me up. www.womanthismonth.com