Woman This Month - May 2022

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES

May 2022 | Issue 229

LIFESTYLE Decorating Your Dinner Table

FASHION The Best of Accessories

OPINION Ouiam on the Importance of Microbes

INTERVIEW Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor GM, MarieBerengere Chapoton, on the luxury property

BEAUTY

In Her Shoes Najia Zainal

Head to Toe Beauty Essentials!

Skincare You’ll Love

www.womanthismonth.com

FASHION | get the look

THE ACCESSORY EDIT!

We explore the best of jewellery, handbags, shoes and more to give your outfits that wow factor.

There’s no denying that great accessories can elevate your fit to the next level. As Eid is a time for celebration, we explored some of the most opulent of shoe and handbag designs aside from a kaleidoscope of accessories from some of the most renowned brands.

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FASHION | get the look

Celebrate with ALDO ALDO launched a fantastic campaign this Ramadan featuring Saudi Arabia's first female model and social media star, Model Roz. The collection amplified the rich colours and adornments of the holy month, with soft pastels, iridescent violets, and gold hues which all help to capture the essence of luxury and joy that surround the celebration.

Designed with comfort features such as ALDO’s Pillow Walk and Flex technologies, the collection offers a variety of silhouettes from more casual wedge styles, to jewel-encrusted dress styles that feature architectural heels.

Maria Tash Dazzles Diamonds are simply some of the most exquisite gems. The New York-based fine jewellery and luxury piercing brand, Maria Tash, has spent years perfecting cuts and minimal settings to deliver statement making yet simplistic pieces.

Whether it’s Maria Tash’s iconic triple spike or eternity rings, stack them up and put your best ear forward with the timeless gem. While the gems are available in a range of stunning settings, what stood out to us this season are the Pear Diamonds and Marquise Diamonds. The marquise cut is known for its extended length and shallow depth which allows for pieces to sit flush against the skin. Pear diamonds, on the other hand, resemble teardrops, converging at a point to create an elegant shape with high light return. www.womanthismonth.com

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FASHION | get the look

A First for Kurt Geiger Jump on the stacking trend with these vibrant pieces from Kurt Geiger’s first ever jewellery line! The lively 74-piece collection includes earrings, necklaces, bangles and rings in joyful designs and are ideal for combining and stacking. The eclectic mix of colours and shapes is perfect for combining and stacking to make a statement and express your own individuality.

The Kurt Geiger London Enamel Eagle Bangle comes in four different colours (Teal, Fuchsia, Dark Blue, or Orange) and are the ideal accessory to brighten and elevate any outfit this summer. The selection of rings from the Kurt Geiger jewellery collection is bright and bold with a wide range of beautiful and bold styles with multiple clear gemstones.

Valentino

Aquazzura BOW TIE

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LOVE LINK

Yes Darling

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FASHION | get the look

Exude Feminine Glamour with Steve Madden Steve Madden, the US retailer for fashionable footwear and accessories, has unveiled an elegant Ramadan/Eid Capsule Collection, that combines high quality craftmanship with chic, contemporary design for a collection that has been undeniably inspired by this season’s runway.

Bidding farewell to last year’s trends of subtilty and plain nude hues, this year’s Ramadan and Eid Collection encapsulates the glitz and glamour of family feasting, bold styles and embellishments. Inspired by the catwalks, this showstopping collection features on-trend, clear vinyl with glittering rhinestones, luxurious satin with delicate pearls and gold mirror foil with dramatic embellishments.

Some key pieces from the collection include vinyl heels adorned with elegant, pearl embellishments, sophisticated diamante covered, platform heels, shimmering, silver diamante slip-on heeled sandals and jewelencrusted Perspex wedge heels, bringing the concept of a celebration straight to life.

MiuMiu Dolce & Gabbana

www.womanthismonth.com

Valentino

May 2022

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PEOPLE | interview

LEADING THE WAY Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor has given residents and visitors to the Kingdom a truly luxurious setting to celebrate their special moments. This month, we speak to the woman at the helm of the spectacular property – General Manager of Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor, Marie-Berengere Chapoton.

Being one of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s most unique properties, Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor offers discerning guests of all nationalities a secluded safe-haven to relax. Leading the property’s dedicated team is Ms. Chapoton, who is no stranger to the hospitality industry and comes with a wealth knowledge and invaluable international experience.

What is the brand essence of your hotel?

Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor’s brand essence prioritises an exclusive luxury hospitality experience, where tradition is paired with modernity to provide guests a memorable stay in a unique setting. Guests are guaranteed a beautiful escape from busy urban life where they can enjoy privacy and serenity.

Who is your target audience?

Our target audience are individuals of all nationalities who appreciate high standards in personalised luxury hospitality and are seeking a secluded stay in an opulent Arabian setting, to celebrate and create moments they can cherish for a lifetime.

Share with us some property statistics and the amenities that will be available to in-house and other guests.

Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor features 78 luxuriously appointed villas, 40 of which are currently under renovation and are awaiting a transformation to an enhanced standard of luxury hospitality when we re-open our doors as Raffles Al Areen Palace. Every villa is appointed with a personal butler, private swimming pool and Jacuzzi. This makes us a truly unique and distinctive property, as the hospitality services we provide are personally tailored. In regard to dining, Al Areen Palace and Spa offers fine dining concepts created by a collection

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of international five-star chefs to tantalise your tastebuds, where our guests can either enjoy in the exquisitely designed venue of our restaurant or in the comfort of their own villas. With the re-opening of Raffles Al Areen Palace, we are also expected to release six entirely new restaurants with a creative flair of international flavours. Our property’s Spa spans across 10,000 square meters, providing guests with an extensive array of wellness services.

How does Al Areen stand out from the other hotel establishments in Bahrain?

Al Areen Palace and Spa lies within a distinct area and is a key property that boasts solely private villas. The historic area of Al Areen in the Kingdom of Bahrain is the key to providing a true feeling of Arabian hospitality in a desert oasis. The journey to our facility, whilst being close enough to main highways and access points also offers a transition into a peaceful and serene environment away from the city.

You joined the property around the time COVID-19 made its presence felt. How has the hotel evolved over the time you have taken over its reins, and how has the relationship between you and your team grown during this period?

The hotel has made long strides towards our goal of re-opening our doors as Raffles Al Areen Palace, during this period we have grown closer together as a tight knit team to deliver seamless service to all our customers even during the heights of the COVID-19 pandemic. I strongly believe that it is the hard times which bring the best out of people. I am happy to say we have passed the most difficult tests without sacrificing any quality in our service delivery.

How has your multi-national experience benefited your work at Al Areen? www.womanthismonth.com

PEOPLE | interview

Working internationally always adds value to one’s work life, by nature you always take the best practices from around the world and apply them to where you currently are. In terms of our workforce, we are a multinational team and are constantly striving to attract the best Bahraini professionals to our workforce and to the service industry as a whole. Our journey towards becoming a Raffles hotel has helped.

www.womanthismonth.com

What is your vision, as the General Manager, for the hotel?

My vision is for this hotel to become the crown jewel of the Bahrain hospitality scene, and to give visitors to Bahrain another reason to visit this lovely island for a unique experience at what will be the Raffles Al Areen Palace.

Any new plans in the pipeline for the property?

In addition to becoming a Raffles hotel, we will be unveiling several unique and exquisite dining options for people which will create a new dimension of culinary flavours and experience for the Bahrain food connoisseurs.

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BEAUTY | news

Truly essentials – these products will take care of every aspect of your beauty needs.

Some might say that beauty is purely about aesthetics, but we’ve always thought of it as more than that. It’s about the way you look, the fragrance you wear, how you feel and how you carry yourself too. We’ve curated a selection of luscious essentials which will have you feeling great from the top of your head down to the tips of your toes.

Longer, More Luscious Lashes The NEW False Lash Effect XXL Mascara is inspired by salon lash extensions, and mastered by Max Factor. The longwear mascara is one of the international celebrity, Priyanka Chopra’s favourite beauty products. The NEW XXL Mascara along with the other Max Factor eye products will be your best allies to achieve the best eye looks this summer.

Developed with patented technology, its high-performing full-stretch formula visibly lengthens lashes by up to 70 percent, stretching beyond the tips of lashes. The unique formula is also free from fragrance, mineral oil and talc.

The mascara, which is buildable, also gives Xtra Volume and Xtra Fullness whilst being smudge proof and clump free. In addition, its hourglass brush and petal shaped bristles allow for a smooth application and coats even the smallest of lashes.

Soft, Supple and Hydrated

Give your body the optimal amount of hydration after a long day with the Grown Alchemist Intensive Body Cream that locks in maximum moisture. Pomegranate and Cupuaçu Butter, rich in polyphenol antioxidants, nourish, soften and hydrate the skin while Rosa Damascena and Açaí Berry, abundant in essential fatty acids, firm and soothe. It leaves your body revitalised and beautifully soft.

Available on www. thesecretskin.com.

Available at all leading stockists.

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BEAUTY | news

Call it Magic!

This Eid, essence has specially produced the Magical Eyes Gift Set with four bestselling products which have been chosen to create truly magical eye looks.

The DAILY DOSE OF LOVE EYESHADOW PALETTE contains nine shades of rosy toned and highly pigmented shadows. The shades also range from matte to metallic allowing you to create seamless looks for any occasion!

With the 2 IN 1 EYELINER PEN, you can draw the graphic liner or cat wing of your dreams. This eyeliner can help you achieve the eyeliner look you desire. One side of the pen has a fine tip while the other side has a broad slanted tip. The eyeliner also boasts an irresistible velvet finish.

LASH PRINCESS SCULPTED VOLUME MASCARA will give your lashes the royal treatment! The tapered brush sculpts every individual lash to give them dramatic volume. You can add as many coats as you like until you’ve achieved your desired length and volume!

Say goodbye to unruly eyebrows and set your brows in place with the LASH & BROW GEL MASCARA. This product not only cares for eyebrows but for eyelashes too and gives both the perfect finish and shape.

Beauty will truly be in the eyes of the beholder this Eid! Available at leading pharmacies and on www.essencemakeup.com.

Luscious Locks for the Summer!

Sometimes, staying on top of your beauty routine can be as simple as washing your hair with a great shampoo. Renowned haircare brand, Vatika, has launched an oil shampoo range that saves you the trouble of having to oil your hair before showering.

This range of products is made with oils of unique and exotic ingredients like Hibiscus, Shea butter, and Avocado, which have always been our favorites for hair concerns, this all-new range is the perfect go-to this season. These ingredients help detox, strengthen and hydrate your hair respectively.

Their new range doesn’t break the bank despite containing the benefits of oil nourishment in a shampoo for the first time in the region!

Available at all leading supermarkets.

Ajmal’s Regal Perfumery Collection 'Amir Two’ the second fragrance from Ajmal's signature 'Amir' collection, is an ode to Ajmal's seven decades of heritage and craftsmanship in the art of oriental perfumery.

Amir fragrances, the sublime new collection of Oriental fragrances, is carefully crafted by the CEO of Ajmal Perfumes Mohd.

Amiruddin Ajmal. The sublime essence uses premium ingredients, making it a work of art in the world of Oriental perfumery with a touch of Ajmal Oudh.

www.womanthismonth.com

The fragrance's top notes begin with opulent Floral and Spicy hues of Rose, Geranium, Nutmeg, Ginger, and Pepper.

Ambery, woody tones of Amber, Cypriol, Patchouli, and Cashmere Wood resonate at the perfume's heart. And its base is classic Ajmal Perfumes Oriental, with Balsamic, Musky, and Oudhy nuances of Gurjun Balsam, Incense, Musk, and Oudh.

Available at all Ajmal Showrooms and on www.shop.ajmalperfume.com.

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LIFESTYLE | opinion

WHY YOU SHOULD COVER YOUR CHILD IN DIRT THIS SUMMER!

D

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Ouiam El Hassani tells us the importance of microbes and how to find the right balance for your child.

id you know that the human body has approximately the same number of bacterial cells as human cells?

This is always a nice reminder when your child's behaviour makes you question if an alien has invaded their body. These nonhuman organisms living in, and on you, are microbes—38,000,000,000,000 of them are bacteria. What they do, how they got there, why we need them and how we can help them thrive is changing how we think and even how we parent.

While a small number of microbes can be pathogenic and harmful, the majority of microbes, especially bacteria, are actually beneficial and critical to our health.

The question now is: How do we nurture these ‘good invisible friends’ in your child’s body so they can fight the nasty ones?

of carbohydrates (like broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans and sweet potatoes) · A high intake of Omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fat (like salmon, sardines, avocados and olive oil) · Food that is low in sugar and preservative agents, that isn’t processed or loaded with additives · Food that is low in saturated fat An overload of sugar and processed food can hurt the balance of the gut microbiome, which makes it hard to digest food and for a child’s immune system to function. Minimising processed foods and offering your child a diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables can support a healthy and diverse microbiome. · Beyond diet, everything from stress levels, to exercise and sleep can impact the health of your kid’s microbiome.

One of the most impactful ways you can nurture the trillions of microbes that work hard to keep your child healthy is through nutrition. It is recommended to have: · A high intake of plant fibres through vegetables, walnuts, pomegranates and berries and other high-fibre food. · A high intake of fibre and specific kinds

How to help your child’s microbiome thrive? · Go outside and play: When your child is outside, they are exposed to many different microbes. A handful of dirt can contain billions of microbes—so encourage your kids to get a little dirty! · Brush their teeth: The mouth is the second

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most diverse part of the body (after the gut), with bacteria living in different areas, like the tongue, cheek, throat and even saliva. These bacteria work to prevent smelly breath, cavities and to make sure nothing harmful finds a place to live.

Regular brushing helps keep the mouth microbiome in balance—and a healthy mouth microbiome can even protect other parts of the body like the heart and lungs! · Get quality sleep: Your microbes are happiest when you have a regular sleep schedule. · Enjoy time with pets (if they’re not allergic!): Pets have their own unique microbes, just like us! Pets carry lots of microbes that are different from ours and can help teach your child’s body what’s OK and what might make them sick. · Incorporate a probiotic: While fermented foods and beverages are great additions to diet for other reasons, most do not qualify as a probiotic. Probiotics are beneficial microbes that have been shown to provide specific health benefits.

Hopefully we can now approach the invisible world of microbes with an appreciation and understanding of how they can support and sustain our health.

Be safe and enjoy the dirt!

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bystander

Holi in Hamala

Rajeeb and Jayati held a truly colourful party to celebrate Holi with their family and friends at HS pools in Hamala.

Summer Promo

Summer Promo Room From BD 30 Onwards.

Special 30% Discount For In-House Guest On Any Outlet.

Special Brunch and Breakfast Offer.

Pool and Fitness Center Access .

FOR RESERVATION:

+973 36897379 @rameegrand.bh

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

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LIFESTYLE | home

AN INVITING TABLESCAPE At a time when the mood is festive and homes are busy hosting near and dear ones, it’s worth turning your attention to a beautifully laid-out dining table. There is pride and pleasure in charming your guests with a tastefully decorated dinner table, which is as simple as adorning it with statement tableware that reflects your home’s signature style.

Courtesy Lifestyle

Celtic Charm Aglow

Casserole with candle stand Home Box

Tealight Votive 6thstreet.com

Serve in Style Serving bowls amazon.com

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LIFESTYLE | home

Coasting Along Coasters etsy.com

Easy Peasy

Pre-folded napkins 6thstreet.com

Drink Up Tumbler set THE One

Floral Burst Table runner etsy.com

Two-tiered Cake stand namshi.com

Pretty in Paisley Dining set Home Centre

Put a Ring on It Napkin ring THE One

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Porcelain Prints Dessert plates amazon.com

A traditional Pour Coffee essentials Lifestyle

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skincare

NOURISHING SKINCARE Cleanse, nourish and balance your skin with our top skincare picks this month.

Taking some time out to care for your skin can make a world of difference to your appearance. This collection of organic and natural skincare will keep your skin effortlessly hydrated and glowing.

Pamper yourself with FOREO Soak up the benefits of FOREO’s UFO Mask Farm-to-Face collection, the perfect partner to your refreshing home spa experience.

These masks contain some of the highest quality ingredients from around the world, including Acai Berry, Manuka Honey or Bulgarian Rose. Enhance your skincare routine with masks created to nourish, rejuvenate and hydrate your complexion.

Available at Sephora, Namshi.com, Sivvi.com, Noon.com and FOREO.com

Cleanse with Carbon Theory

Banish breakouts with the Carbon Theory Facial Cleansing Wash! With a blend of organic tea tree oil, activated charcoal, and shea butter, it is dermatologically proven to prevent breakouts and keep sensitive skin clean, healthy, and hydrated.

Available at www.thesecretskin.com.

BRIGHTEN WITH JUANA SKIN

Cleansing your skin before bed increases your blood flow which amplifies the absorption of any products you apply to your face after cleansing.

Say goodbye to dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. You’ll be amazed by what the Juana Skin Deep Cleansing Emulsion, packed with CBD, will do for your skin.

Treat yourself to unclogged and fresh complexion without stripping the skin of precious natural oils. Start and end every day with a bright, fresh, thoroughly cleansed complexion.

Available at www.juanaskin.com.

Restore and Regenerate with Amly

Exclusive to Secret Skin and straight from the farms in Sussex, Amly’s Facial Essence restores and regenerates skin repair and longevity. It is a lightweight liquid that preps the skin to imbibe moisturisers and oils better. This concentrated formula helps dissolve dead skin cells, delay the appearance of wrinkles and stimulate circulation.

Honey, Snow Algae, sleep-improving Valerian and free-radical-fighting Green Tea make their mark in this mighty mix.

Available at www.thesecretskin.com.

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In Her Shoes

With a knack for drumming up an interest in picturesque hospitality venues, Najia Zainal has grown to be a renowned Marketing Manager in the Kingdom of Bahrain. That being said, there’s even more to the driven woman; she loves living a fit and exciting lifestyle. Let’s take a walk in her shoes.

last word

Something about you that most people don’t know is…

Let’s just keep it that way. ;)

How would you describe yourself?

I’m like a Bungee Jump; dangerous yet full of excitement and adventure.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Your preferred holiday destination?

Anywhere in Italy

Najia Zainal

Power up; go to the gym.

Name three things you never leave the house without: My iPhone, lip balm and glasses www.bahrainthismonth.com

Which musicians would we find on your workout playlist?

G-Easy, Bbno$, Jack Harlow and some good old rock music.

Your top three healthy foods:

Green apples, watermelon and all seafood

What’s your favourite workout?

Legs and back

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advertisers index Hotels & Serviced Residences

Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . IFC Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Medical & Dental Services

Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . .9

bahrainthismonth.com

Now you’ve seen your regular issue, which we hope you enjoyed, make sure to check out our websites and social media for daily updates of what’s happening across the Kingdom. You can find us at:

bahrainthismonth

womanthismonth.com womanthismonth

Scan the QR code for more information from the advertisers

Motoring

Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . 3 Behbehani Brothers Co.(Porsche) BC Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Others

Al Areen Leisure & Tourism Co. (The Lost Paradise of Dilmun) . . . . . . . . . 7 Alhayat Perfume Co W.L.L (Kolmaz Paris) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 DHL International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Energie Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Entertainment Live (Jack And The Bean Stalk) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Khalaifat Co. W.L.L . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Mohd. Fakhroo & Bros (Moser) . . 33 RP Group of Companies (Cutwatr)IBC UNEECO Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Mohammed Fakhroo & Bros (Moser)

Al Areen Palace & Spa

Al Haddad Motors

Behbehani Brothers Co

DHL International

Euro Motors:BMW Khalaifat Co. W.L.L

Kolmaz Paris

The Lanterns Restaurant

The Lost Paradise of Dilmun

Maki Restaurants Group Co.

Royal Bahrain Hospital

RP Group of Companies

UNEECO Group

Energie Fitness

Restaurants & Cafes

Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . . . 15

Ramee Grand

Bahrain Indonesia Business and Friendship Society held a Ramadan Ghabga and Ghabga & Bazaar The Bazaar at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, Manama.

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