Bahrain Edition
BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES
June 2016 | Issue 160 | BD1 / SR10
WOMEN ON WHEELS
• Meeting the F1 marshals • Tales from a two-wheeled traveller • On the road with WTM
CHEF’S SPECIAL
In the CUT kitchen with Ben Small
FEMALE FOUNDERS Empowering women to succeed
www.womanthismonth.com
Rasha Al Najjar
Taking action on climate change
RAMADAN
Iftars and Ghabgas galore to celebrate the Holy Month
Homes
Inspirational tips to make monochrome magic
TRAVEL
A whistle-stop tour of some of the world’s greatest motor racing venues
JUNE
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8 Diary
SHOPPING
10 Pick of the Month: Written in the Stars 12 Editor’s Choice: Pure Grace
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FASHION
14 Trend: Sparkle and Shine 22 Fashion Forward: Backstage Pass 24 Get the Look: Dare to Bare
PEOPLE
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29 Sahar Albaharna and Zahra Ghanbari: Female Founders 30 Rasha Al Najjar: Green Citizen 33 Raza Beig: Uniting Through Love 34 Bindu Titus: Building a Business Platform
MOTORING FEATURE
38 Women on Wheels: Meeting the race marshals 42 Biker Babe: Anne Al Zayani 45 Making Your Mind Up: Helpful motoring websites
BEAUTY
47 Celeb Spot: Get Zendaya's look 48 News: The latest products in the stores
FEATURE RAMADAN
56 Breaking the fast: The island's best Iftars and Ghabgas
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LIFESTYLE
62 Wellbeing: Pulse reading 65 Parenting: Dr Jinan answers your questions 66 Parenting: Kids' Play Ground 67 Parenting: Tech kids 68 Home: Monochrome magic 70 Travel: A Need For Speed 76 Food: Review 77 Food: Chef's Special 78 Horoscope: What to expect this month 80 Last Word: In Her Shoes – Hina Mirza
For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail sales@womanthismonth.com. 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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June 2016
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Experience Exquisite Ramadan Nights Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay provides the perfect place to break fast this Ramadan and experience the true essence of the Holy Month. Enjoy unrivalled Four Seasons service and hospitality with family and friends at the Arabesque-themed Ramadan Tent, and let your children be entertained at the exclusive Kids For All Seasons Tent. Join us for a Ramadan to remember! Iftar: BHD 25++ (including beverages) - Ghabga: BHD 27++ (excluding beverages)
fourseasons.com/bahrain +973 1711 5500
EDITOR’S NOTE You'll notice lots of changes in this month's edition as we decided it was time to take our own advice and brighten up our look. The homes, travel and fashion pages are snazzier than ever and we've introduced a new page in beauty, Celeb Spot, where fashion and beauty editor Fernanda Langhammer gives tips on how to copy a star's style. The Parenting section's also undergone an mini makeover with Dr Jinan answering readers' questions and a new page dedicated to tech kids. Keep your eyes peeled for more developments in the coming months and we're evening planning a relaunch party to ring in the changes a bit later in the year. While our designers have been burning the midnight oil formulating our new look, we've been out and about meeting inspirational ladies. Rasha Al Najjar spoke to Puja Tiwari about battling climate change and Sahar Albaharna and Zahra Ghanbari told Behnaz Sanjana how they are aiming to empower women in the workplace. For our motoring feature, I headed to the Bahrain International Circuit to meet some of the lady marshals, who are part of the world's largest group of female race officials. I also got to try out some lovely new motors and chatted to biker Anne Al Zayani who left me with a severe case of Harley envy. Heading into the Holy Month of Ramadan, we've rounded up some of our favourite places to enjoy Iftars and Ghabgas and there are lots of tips on staying healthy while you're fasting. Happy reading, I'd love to hear what you think of our new look.
chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY marketing & electronic media director DEEPA SIVA fashion & beauty editor FERNANDA LANGHAMMER The only contributors 's en wom APPLE SHARMA BEHNAZ SANJANA magazine PUJA TIWARI h distributed wit DR JINAN DARWISH N D G the RAPHAEL creative director ANDRE BIGG print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics ROMEO SAN MIGUEL JAYATH TEKI media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media manager FARHEEN AHMED circulation KADAMBARI S photography editor MONA ABDUL JABBAR photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press UNION PRESS, BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2016© 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
Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director
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
Our month: I tried the classic model pose and Behnaz met celeb chef Wolfgang Puck.
Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide
Bahrain Edition
BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES
June 2016 | Issue 160 | BD1 / SR10
WOMEN ON WHEELS
• Meeting the F1 marshals • Tales from a two-wheeled traveller • On the road with WTM
CHEF’S SPECIAL
In the CUT kitchen with Ben Small
FEMALE FOUNDERS Empowering women to succeed
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June 2016
www.womanthismonth.com
Rasha Al Najjar
June 2016, Issue 160 On the cover: Women on wheels
Taking action on climate change
RAMADAN
Iftars and Ghabgas galore to celebrate the Holy Month
Homes
Inspirational tips to make monochrome magic
TRAVEL
A whistle-stop tour of some of the world’s greatest motor racing venues
www.womanthismonth.com
letters
Write Here Write Now
G | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES
Bahrain Edition
BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEIN
www.womanthismonth.com
May 2016 | Issue 159 | BD1 / SR10
Bridal nza Boes,na make-up,
Wellbeing
The eyes have it
Dress gifts and more
FOOD
Get in touch by email, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram!
Chocolatey indulgence
TRAVEL
Rockin’ all over the world
LIFESTYLE | travel
Parenting
Building a blended brood
Fashion
MUMS MEET-UP
Wedding wear for all occasions
A
Sasquatch
SASQUATCH! MUSIC FESTIVAL, GEORGE, USA This is one festival where the setting alone can guarantee hordes of people. Sasquatch! music festival is held every Memorial Day weekend at a beautiful gorge in central Washington. The view of the gorge is picturesque and is one of the most breathtaking sites you will see in your lifetime. Add to this this year’s acts, which include The Cure, Florence and the Machine, Disclosure, Four Tet and Major Lazer. If this sounds like where you want to be from May 2730 this year, make sure you load up on supplies
Kendall Jenner
BCBG Max Azria spring 2016
The bells are ringing in wedding season and we've put together three different looks to inspire your outfit for the big day.
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Olympic National
Park
and get some good quality camping gear. The stage at Sasquatch! is an outdoor amphitheatre, and no matter where you’re situated, the sound and view will be phenomenal.
Named in honour of America’s first president, George is a small town that is famous for its forests, rich history and one of the most extraordinary amphitheatres in the world. The state of Washington is home to many natural treasures and urban wonders that promise a wonderful road trip. Surrender
to the enchanting landscape of Olympic National Park in Port Angeles and then get lost in the futuristic cityscape of downtown Seattle. Located between Seattle and Olympia, Tacoma is home to the amazing Museum of Glass, then head to sunnier Spokane for its mesmerising gardens and parks. Do visit the charming town of Leavenworth that celebrates its Bavarian heritage throughout the year.
May 2016
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1. Watch: Esprit at A La Mode; 2. Earrings: Salvatore Ferragamo; 3. Clutch: Saint Laurent Paris at Saks Fifth Avenue; 4. Dress: Mango; 5. Bracelet: Montblanc;
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6. Shoes: Dune London.
(OR GROOM)
MOTHER OF THE BRIDE
Amal Clooney
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element of travel, meeting strangers and general euphoria makes them so popular. If you are going to invest in a (probably pricey) festival pass, ensure the best bang for your buck by attending a festival where the scenic surroundings are just as great as the tunes. With an ever-increasing number of top-notch events popping up every year, we bring you three summer fests that not just guarantee great music, but also an amazing holiday.
Downtown Seattle
Cooking with GUEST LIST confidence
Letter
Music festivals are, for many people, the purest and most enjoyable way to experience live music. Ankita Mamgain shares a few options where the euphoria extends far beyond the stage.
wise man once said, “Going to a music festival not only makes you happier, it changes your life.” The power of music is undoubtedly one of the most incredible parts of the human experience. When added to a social gathering involving people from diverse backgrounds, coming together for their love of this art, it becomes a force unparalleled by anything else. One of the best ways to live this experience is at a music festival. The performers, the
FASHION | get the look
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Rockin’ All Over the World As a complete music buff, I enjoyed reading about the most popular music festivals that happen around the world, more so because it Rockin' All Over The World involves my second love – travel! Music is, no doubt, has the magic abilities to dispel gloom and feel make one feel more hopeful about life and the future. I think that the element of the unknown is what draws wanderlusters like me to mass events like international music festivals. What’s the place going to be like? Who will I meet there? How am I going to make the most of my trip? Theses are all questions that send excitement coursing through me. I have a long list of artists I have to witness performing and a longer bucketlist of countries I have to visit in my lifetime. Ankita Mamgain’s well-rounded article has just added three more places to it. George, Barcelona and Morocco – here I come!
May 2016
very important invitee, the mum should wear a glamorous, age-appropriate outfit for her child’s special day. Dresses with a lace top applied on the upper part of the gown are a great way to add sophistication and also avoid a tight cut. Another tip here is to go for an option with at least a little bit of sleeve; it doesn’t have to be long, but some extra cloth covering the shoulders will look better than a sleeveless option. The colour can vary, just avoid black or white. Personal taste and the shades of the season are more important. Pale pink is a contemporary hue that looks great on any skin colour. Pick footwear with chunky heels and a round front for comfort – it will be a long day!
Layla
www.womanthismonth.com
Guest List - Get the look I must say I was impressed by the outfits and accessories one can wear to a wedding put together in your fashion pages. I have quite a few weddings to attend this season; including my sister’s and two of my close friends who will be tying the knot this year. The accessories and shoes go perfectly with each of the outfits and look so elegant. Thanks to the information provided, I know where to start my shopping. And the best part is that now even my mum’s sorted! Yara
The following #WTM post was most favourited and Retweeted on Twitter.
Dream Wedding Guide Say Yes to The Dress Congratulations to Woman This Month for putting together such a great wedding themed magazine. I am lucky to be getting married early next year, and although I still have a while to make the final arrangements for my do, I was quite inspired by all that the magazine offered. You have managed to cover every important aspect of weddings. Starting with the dress, makeup and accessories, you even gave me some good ideas on the kind of venue and food I want for my wedding. I also realised that it’s a smart plan to register for the kind of gifts I want. Thank you WTM… your pages are going to be my go-to guide in the coming months. Mel FEATURE | weddings
Of course we know there’s more to getting married than the dress, but choosing just the right gown for your big day is a big part of the fun. We’ve rounded up some of the latest offerings from the biggest names in the business.
Enzoani
The 2016 collection embodies the timeless elegance that Enzoani is internationally renowned for. With the addition of an all-new lace design and a show-stopping train for even more of that oh-so gorgeous and dramatic 'wow' factor, this gown will bring gasps as you walk down the aisle.
Caroline Herrera
This year’s bridal collection is inspired by the beauty, sensuality and delicacy of the fragrant white jasmine flower. Hand-stitched embroidery on silk faille brings the precious flower to life, giving the illusion of the cascading blossoms. This Jordana dress gives a stylish and unique interpretation of the mermaid tail with layers and pleats offering a fairytale quality.
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H&M Conscious
One for the bride with a conscience, this gown from H&M is not strictly intended to be bridal but we think it’s beautiful enough to play with the big girls and it also lives up to the brand’s promise of offering fashion choices that are good for people, the planet and your wallet.
Marchesa
Ruched, ruffled, off-theshoulder and sporting a train, this gown from Marchesa ticks all the wedding boxes while the tightness of the bodice and nipped in waist give a modern look to a classic style that teems with fabric petals which translate into the ultimate in ethereal romance.
May 2016
www.womanthismonth.com
The Most talked about Picture on WTM’s Instagram
This retweeted quote “The biggest wall you've gotta climb is the one you build in your mind.” by @JedRecord was the most liked on twitter.
The Most Liked Post on Facebook The most liked post on facebook was the video round of Woman This Month’s Kitchen Star Season 2 held at Bahrain Financial Harbour.
WTM’s contest post about its first #MumsMeetup in May was the most liked on instagram. “If you are already excited about this initiative, do follow this #contest post and be the lucky one to be part of this meetup plus win a special #spatreatment at @ alareenpalaceandspa." 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: @woman_this_month
Twitter: @WomanThisMonthB
Facebook: Woman This Month www.womanthismonth.com
diary
JUNE
SAVE THE DATE From ways to progress professionally to summer beach parties, this month looks packed with of lots of action and here’s your guide to plan ahead.
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WEDNESDAY
2 THURSDAY
Jazz Night Music lovers are in for a treat as Polo Gastropub continues on its mission of promoting local Bahraini talent by presenting Ahmed AlQasim’s Jazz Experience, featuring Abdulla Haji on the saxophone. Ahmed is perhaps better known in his other role as bassist and vocalist with popular local band Likwid, so it’s no surprise that this night is already getting lots of interest. Get there early to avoid disappointment. Call 17 725-000.
2-4 THURSDAY-
Fashion in Focus The second edition of the Fashion Time Exhibition at Bahrain International Exhibition Centre is being run by First Target. It will include men’s, women’s and kids’ fashion, jewellery and accessories as well as a range of toiletries, cosmetics and healthcare products. This year, for the first time, the expo will also include a food section. And, as another first, there will be beauty and fashion shows featuring local designers. Running 10am-10pm over the three days. Entry is free and there will be lots of prizes up for grabs. For info see www.ftbh.net.
SATURDAY
3 3
Summer Party The warmer weather is most definitely here so expect an evening of indulgence as Mai Tai at Trader Vic’s bids farewell to another season. Partygoers can expect to be greeted in friendly Mai Tai fashion with great food and drinks and fun tunes in this gorgeous setting and, for one lucky winner, there’ll also be a special Trader Vic’s raffle prize. Call 17 586-555.
FRIDAY
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MONDAY June 2016
Jazzman
Fil Harmonics Launch A fiesta in line with the upcoming 118th Philippines Independence Day takes place at Adhari Park at which Fil Harmonics, a group of enthusiastic local Filipino musicians, will be debuting their sound. Running throughout the day from 10am there will also be a cultural show, recycled Filipina fashion show, bazaars, raffle prizes, food booths, live entertainment with performers including Hot Laser and the Last Cans, a dance crew and an artist coming from the Philippines. Call 37 241-228.
FRIDAY
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Book Signing Book signing with Brian King, The 100 Day Promise. See what happens when a regular husband and father of four promises to totally love and serve his wife for 100 days. What will happen to him, his wife and their relationship? Is it really worth the effort? More than just hearing marriage platitudes, this book shows the reality of the stresses family life can bring and demonstrates the power of trusting someone enough to love them completely. At Words Bookstore Café. Call 17 690-790.
Mai Tai
Ramadan Kareem The beginning of the Holy Month is, of course, subject to the sighting of the moon. However, the period of abstinence is expected to start around June 6. A time of reflection and charity, Ramadan also means the chance to get together with family and friends at sunset to enjoy a scrummy Iftar or Ghabga at venues across the island. www.womanthismonth.com
SHOPPING | pick of the month
Written in the Stars Modern, delicate, conjuring up the magic of the moon: the Esprit zodiac signs have a dazzling zirconia solitaire and make the perfect gift for every occasion. The jewels, in 18-carat rose gold plating, make for a thoroughly trendy look, and the combination of brilliant zirconia with rose gold ideally matches their modern design language.
Esprit is available in Bahrain at Al La Mode. For information call 17 179-863 or 17 748-999.
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www.womanthismonth.com
Shaping the
Elegance of your
Beauty
SHOPPING | editor's choice
Pure Grace The holy month is upon us and it’s the perfect time to explore our spirituality and spend time with family and friends. Transform your home and plan the perfect outfit to enjoy the month’s Iftars and Ghabgas.
Abaya collection, Dolce & Gabbana 17 131-456.
Watch, Esprit at A La Mode 17 179-854.
Diamond necklace set, Malabar Gold & Diamonds 17 208-810.
Louxor red vase, Thierry Peureux at Tanagra 17 179-570. Burgundy kohl liner, Inglot 16 686-200.
Hamsa hand necklace, Bershka 17 172-303.
Long kaftan CH Carolina Herrera 17 178-520.
Quilted chain handbag, Michael Kors 17 178-630. Chandelier, BHS 17 582-258.
Round black sunglasses, Karl Lagerfeld karl.com.
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Sheer blouse, Tommy Hilfiger 16 686-208.
www.womanthismonth.com
FASHION | trend
SPARKLE AND SHINE Wide-brim hat, Accessorize 1717 9786.
Emilio Pucci
Sequinned tops, dresses and skirts are the ‘it’ items to add extra glamour to your looks. Let your wardrobe shine!
Clutch, Dune London 1717 9314.
Black jumpsuit, Monsoon 1758 1804.
Spaghetti strap top, Debenhams 1717 9887.
Light rose top, Next 1717 2050.
White tailored trousers, BHS 1758 2258.
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HOW TO STYLE IT?
This look is definitely one for bold girls, however the trend gets the green light for daytime wear. Pair it with a solid tailored piece and flats to rock a glitzy style.
Sequinned orange heels, Lanvin 1717 2000 (Saks Fifth Avenue).
www.womanthismonth.com
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
Summer Art at The Domain
The Domain Hotel and Spa held the opening of its Summer Art Exhibition 2016 at its premises in the Diplomatic Area. The event featured local artists Abbas Almosawi and Wedad Al Bakr as well as many international exhibitors.
Wedad & Faris
Sumana & Abbas
Salman, Shaikh Ali Al Khalifa & Sudhir Jan, Abdul Hamid, Khalid Al Qoud & Fateh Faraj
Tanvi, Muna, Amy & Malak
www.womanthismonth.com
Fatema
HE Taha Mohammed Abdul Qader & Nejib Friji
Emma
June 2016
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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
International Embassies Market
The Children & Mothers Welfare Society held its International Embassies Market at its premises in Isa Town. The event was held under the patronage of HH Shaikha Hessa bint Ali bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
Hardi, Wita, HE Chilman Arisman, Ratna & Dean Ganniga, HE Chayapan Bamrungphong & Gantipan
Shaikha Aysha bin Salman Al Khalifa & Shaikha Hind bin Salman Al Khalifa Machiko, Sayuri, HE Kiyoshi Asako, Yukiko & Daisuke
HE Chilman Arisman, HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad & HE Chayapan Bamrungphong
Noor & Surya
Yesim, Semiha & Sebahat
Michela, & Giuliana
16 June 2016
Mehreen & Shahzadi
Rocio & Araceli
Najla, Zehra & Jece
Samreen, Dina & Shahzadi
Claire & Christine
Cherry, Sirin, Kasorn, Kob & Mandy
Papia, Anjum & Devasrit
Rasha & Sophie
Georgette, Rehab & Reine
Shanjida & Mukta
Priya & Najat
Batool, Jacqueline & Karen
www.womanthismonth.com
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
Lulu Hypermarket British Festival
Lulu Group held a British Festival celebration at its Hidd branch. The festival was inaugurated by British Ambassador, HE Simon Martin, and was attended by top management, businessmen and invited guests.
Shukoor, Ioannis, Kaleem, Sathar & Sherif
The ribbon-cutting ceremony
HE Simon Martin & Juzer Rupawala
Cake-cutting ceremony
Jebran & Vineeth
Dilmun School students performing
Sharzna, Soudha & Reine
Farheen, Maha & Ansari
18 June 2016
Band of the British Royal Marines
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BAHRAIN: BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE • SEEF MALL • SEEF MALL, MUHARRAQ • OASIS EAST RIFFA • OASIS MALL, MUHARRAQ • MARINA MALL SAUDI ARABIA • KUWAIT • BAHRAIN • QATAR • OMAN • JORDAN • EGYPT • LEBANON • PAKISTAN • TANZANIA • LIBYA • INDIA • SRI LANKA
showcase DEVJI SINCE 1950
A GOLDEN SUMMER This reputed jeweller offers new designs and the chance to win instant prizes.
T
he summer season is just around the corner. For many, this is a time to pack bags and head home. A trip back home is often punctuated with holiday shopping and gold jewellery from Bahrain is always a hit. The purity that is offered in Bahrain is unparalleled, not to mention the craftsmanship and design trends. At Devji, preparations for the spring/ summer season start four months in advance. New sketches are created on paper by Devji’s in-house designers. The designs are then chosen through a careful screening process where the team bears in mind the weight factor, current trends, wearability and other factors. The chosem pieces are then crafted in gold. These prototypes are subjected to stringent quality tests. Minor changes are made to the functionality aspect if required. And colour combinations of minakari elements and coloured stone combinations are experimented with, before finalisation. Once the prototypes are approved, the jewellery is crafted for the stores at Devji’s own manufacturing unit located in Bahrain. This season Devji since 1950 has an exciting range of new designs on offer across all the
popular brands. The Aabhushan collection of gold jewellery has been expanded with new designs of bangles, necklaces, pendants, earrings and rings. The Tanvi collection of antique jewellery has been revamped with the addition of unique pieces. The design and flow of the new collections are very much in line with the recent trends. Filigree combined with textured gold is dominating the jewellery scene this year and these elements find shape and form with Devji’s latest Tanvi collection. The Tara collection has been embellished further with pendant sets, earrings, rings and necklaces in varying weight ranges. The bridal
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range will soon have an addition of gorgeous diamond sets in minimal weight ranges. Adding to all the above Devji since 1950 is celebrating the promotional offer Golden Treasures. Purchase gold jewellery worth BD300 and multiples thereof and receive a scratch coupon. Purchase Tara diamond jewellery worth BD300 and multiples thereof and receive double the number of scratch coupons for the chance to win gold coins instantly. The promotion continues till June 29, 2016, at all Devji since 1950 stores in Bahrain and Oman. Contact your nearest Devji since 1950 store for details. Follow us on www.facebook.com/ devjisince 1950 for regular updates on what’s new at Devji. For a daily update on gold rates follow the twitter handle @devjisince1950. www.womanthismonth.com
FASHION | fashion forward
LUXURY IN ONE CLICK
The multi-brand online store, NET-A-PORTER, announces a special collaboration with jewellery label Tiffany & Co. The online retailer will be the only authorised destination beyond Tiffany’s own channels to sell select items from the iconic blue box brand. “Tiffany has been in the market for 179 years and collaborations with innovative partners like NET-A-PORTER help ensure that the brand’s timeless designs reach a new generation of customers, wherever they are,” said Philippe Galtie, Tiffany’s senior vice president of international sales.
E G A T S K BAC
S S A P
ashionable?
ITALIAN ORIGIN
f ending and r t l, o o c ’s t a Wh
Salvatore Ferragamo celebrates the colourful life of its founder with a women’s capsule leather goods collection in collaboration with designer Sara Battaglia. The line consists of four different handbag styles in an assortment of sizes as well as a wallet, notebook, pouch, key chain and belt. The creations update the Italian spirit and the mix of materials that have long been recognised as Ferragamo hallmarks. The quirky Sara Battaglia for Salvatore Ferragamo collection mixes complex craftsmanship linking heritage to modernity.
Summer Ready
The creative director of Jimmy Choo, Sandra Choi, has created a vibrant, upbeat spring and summer collection with inspiration coming from California’s skyline. Graphics of palm trees meld with bold architectural gestures to give a carefree glamorous effect. “I wanted to convey an upbeat attitude whilst juxtaposing new with old – artisanal vintage references blended with bold, graphic details – to create something modern and surprising,” explains Sandra.
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BRAND AMBASSADOR
The British musician Florence Welch, lead singer of Florence + The Machine, is Gucci’s new ambassador for watches and jewellery. The musician’s personal style is in harmony with the fashion house’s eccentric spirit, according to creative director Alessandro Michele. They are friends and certainly appreciate each other’s work.
www.womanthismonth.com
[ Cat Eyes ]
Fashion lovers the world over adore limited editions. So, hot brands create ‘must have’ pieces to answer that desire. Bottega Veneta eyewear presents its Felis sunglasses, a mix of shape and functionality. With only 500 numbered pieces, the cat-eye sunglasses are a vision from creative director Tomas Maier. Artisans hand-weave the premium acetate, recreating the iconic intrecciato motif on the upper part of the black frames. Felis sunglasses feature the world’s thinnest polarised mineral lenses, seven barrels integrated plaque hinge and a customised hand-woven leather case.
CONVE RT IB LE CA R RI ER
This spring, Longchamp gives a twist to its Roseau bag turning it into a dynamic reversible model. The new line is double-sided, with one side painted in rich neutral colours in soft satin grain material and the other featuring a vibrant shade with an enlarged satin grain. The small and large tote are offered in duos of: black/girly pink, navy/ pink, and caramel/ecru. Premier BTMsandy/cherry Ad 125mm x 191mm.psd.pdf 1 3/23/16
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FASHION | get the look
Whitney Port
DO YOU DARE TO BARE?
Pendant earrings, Parfois 17 178-054.
The off-theshoulder top is a summer wardrobe essential that looks best when paired with shoulderdusting earrings. Go for this flirty and flattering piece to heat up days and nights in style!
Bohemian lace dress, Mango 17 179-718.
Filigre Cuff, Monsoon 17 179-650.
Watch Esprit at A La Mode 17 179-854.
Positano lace-up heeled espadrille, Tory Burch 17 179-560
Orange bucket handbag, Dune London 17 179-314
Olivia Palermo
FEMI N I N E FL A IR
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A boho inspired dress is a trendy way to show off your femininity with subtle sex-appeal. Perfect for casual parties or a daytime stroll, it can be paired with colourful accessories or earthy tones for extra oomph. A bucket handbag and espadrilles are foolproof final touches. www.womanthismonth.com
Aviator sunglasses, Zara 17 172-333. Shoulderduster earrings, Salvatore Ferragamo 17 178-535
Blue round sunglasses, Furla 17 178-538.
Chandelier earrings, Accessorize 17 179-786.
Light wash denim Bardot top, River Island 17 179-485.
Ruffled top, New Look 17 179-406.
Striped handbag Kate Spade 17 582-424.
Golden cross - body handbag Vivienne Westwood at House of Fraser houseoffraser.com.uk. White Flared white trousers, Betty Barclay 17 581-880.
Slippers, Mira Mikati at Saks Fifth Avenue 17 172-000.
Long denim skirt, Marc Jacobs marcjacobs.com
Kitty flats Charlotte Olympia at THEOUTNET.COM
HI PP IE H Y P E
L AI D-BAC K L ADY
Go for a full-on denim look to embrace your modern hippie style. To transform an all-blue denim outfit, play with different tones and proportions for an out-of-the box look. Finalise the concept by adding funky accessories and you will be fashionista fabulous in the blink of an eye!
This look is for those days when you’re not feeling super creative with the contents of your wardrobe and want to play safe but with a smart twist. White trousers and a colourful top is all you need! Finish the look with comfy flats and an eye-catching handbag to look great without much effort.
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June 2016
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showcase AMBASSADOR STORES
CLASSIC, YET CONTEMPORARY S
Let your wrist make a statement with an elegant timepiece that reflects classic inspiration and modern expression.
eiko’s Premier collection is a harmonious mÊlange of the classic and the modern, standing testimony to the idea that opposites do attract. This collection comprises watches that look ageless, yet embrace the very latest technology and architectural design. The subtle interaction of the classic and modern lends a stylish charisma to the Premier collection, which itself draws inspiration from the world of architecture. By blending different styles, Premier proves that opposites can co-exist, and the result is a congruous fusion of contemporary style and lasting quality. The Premier collection is a broad one,
giving discerning customers a wide variety of styles to choose from. The overall design of the latest collection stays unchanged
from its predecessors, but the architectural and threedimensional characteristic of the Premier dials is enhanced with elegant additions like the large calendar window in the Kinetic Perpetual series and the inclusion of the heartshaped dial opening in the mechanical models. The collection includes a wide variety of calibres, but the new range of Kinetic watches takes place of pride. This range includes the remarkable Kinetic Perpetual, a calibre unique to Seiko. It retains the correct time and date for up to four years when not being worn, without ever requiring a change of battery. Call: 17225513.
Tea Party
Saks Fifth Avenue held a special tea party at its Ralph Lauren corner at City Centre Bahrain.
Abdulrahman & Fahad
Bushra, Klara, Antoinette, Fatima & Nayla Cynthia & Antoinette
Yasmeen, Sumaya & Joory
Tamim & Shahad
Fernanda, Oliver & Cecilia
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June 2016
Rashid
Ama
Ian & Dandy
Sumaya
Noora
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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
Four Seasons BBQ Night
The Four Seasons Hotel held an American BBQ night with celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck, on The Lawn. Jelena, Tulin & Georgina
Dev & Amanda Emily & Karim Wolfgang & Greg
Loren & Melody
Fatema & Majda
Lia, Wolfgang & Fabi
Mathias & Btisam
Bruce, Jan & Sherry
Sara & Veronika Rumena, Katherina, Josie & Jennie
Paul & Mel
Joe, Phil & John Karin & Natasha
Mahmood & Mohammed
Graham & Sue
28 June 2016
Amira & Melissa
Lulu & Anna
Molly & Mark
Florence & Sara
Guilherme & Aishling
www.womanthismonth.com
PEOPLE | interview
Women Empowering Women Sahar Albaharna and Zahra Ghanbari meet Behnaz Sanjana to talk about how they are enabling women in Bahrain to shine their entrepreneurial light.
Zahra and Sahar
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ahar Albaharna, the brain behind Female Founders Middle East, says statistics from the World Bank show the literacy rate of women in Bahrain to be higher than 90 per cent. “Every year we see a high percentage of top female graduates from schools and universities. However, the labour force of women in the region is less than half that of men. In order to retain these talented and intelligent females in the workforce, we need creative solutions,” she says. Sahar firmly believes that women in Bahrain have a lot of talent and want to be role models for future generations. But their other commitments - home, family and motherhood - keep them from taking on full-time jobs. With this in mind, she started Female Founders Middle East, with the sole purpose of pushing women to use their skills and talents in a beneficial way. “We are not a recruiting agency. We just help generate jobs amongst women. We build networks for entrepreneurs and jobseekers, leaving it up to them to use this network effectively,” she says. Six years ago, Sahar motivated women to break the proverbial glass ceiling in the corporate arena. “We worked with women in banks and other financial institutions to encourage more women into management and senior management. Being a working mother myself, I wanted to help others who www.womanthismonth.com
Members can get in touch with over a hundred investors, mentors and coaches, as well as the MENA Business Angel Network were in the same boat.” She soon realised that the time to push women into entrepreneurship was ripe. “A lot of women came to me asking how they could start their own business, to have a better worklife balance and also to follow their passion and convert it into a successful venture,” she says. Female Founders is proud to associate with CH9, a newly opened business accelerator at the Lagoon in Amwaj. Hub director of CH9, Zahra Ghanbari, says: “We work with startups and scale-ups and are passionate about helping innovative enterprises grow through knowledge, investment support and access to local and regional markets.” CH9 is a platform that supports local and expatriate entrepreneurs to see their business
idea achieve fruition. “Members can get in touch with over a hundred investors, mentors and coaches, as well as the MENA Business Angel Network. We also have door-opening services that give scale-ups access to the wider MENA region, and put them in touch with leaders in their business realm,” says Zahra. Believing in the potential of women, CH9 encourages them to blaze their own trails. The organisation has welcomed Female Founders under its umbrella, to conduct talks and seminars addressing the concerns of women who are already in business or toying with the idea of starting one. The recent Female Founders event held at the CH9 premises touched upon the basics of entrepreneurship and freelancing, and connected start-ups with women freelancers and jobseekers. “Women were advised on how to tackle some common business problems such as managing finances and refining their business ideas. Apart from seminars, we plan to have workshops teaching women essentials like financial management for small companies and hiring solutions for start-ups,” says Sahar. The pair are very proud that all their event sponsors are local businesses founded by women and they look forward to organising more events in the near future as well as generating more opportunities for women gogetters in Bahrain. g June 2016
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PEOPLE | interview
The Green Citizen
Rasha Al Najjar is tackling environmental issues in Bahrain by raising awareness and educating youth to conserve and protect their resources. She told Puja Tiwari about the issues close to her heart. Rasha Al Najjar
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asha is a science teacher at Al Hekma International School who aspires to plant thousands of trees in the Kingdom as part of the Environment Online (ENO) initiative, which aims to plant one million trees across the globe by 2017. As an environmentalist, which issue do you think Bahrain needs to tackle first? The rise in global temperatures and its ripple effect through the environment affects Bahrain too. Our high summer temperatures, population density and low elevation make climate change mitigation especially important for the future of Bahrain.
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I’m trying to build global citizens who are aware of their environment and community. I believe this is the only way we can tackle environment change
How are you raising awareness of this? I have a bigger vision to help Bahrain reach its Vision 2030, especially with sustainability. I’m trying to build global citizens who are aware of their environment and community. I believe this is the only way we can tackle environment change.
building awareness about the environment in schools and the community, while simultaneously keeping up to date about global climate issues. There is a goal set by the ENO to plant one million trees worldwide by July 2017, and I am helping by bringing Bahrain onto the bandwagon. For this to materialise, I am directly liaising with ministries here.
Tell us more about the projects you have been involved with? I was short-listed for the Global Educational Supplies and Solutions 2016, and I am also the only educator chosen from Bahrain as ENO coordinator. Each coordinator works on
How are you empowering the youth in order to create awareness for climate change? I am educating them to make sure that once they graduate from school, they can make a difference in this world. My students started off knowing nothing about how, and even why,
June 2016
they need to take care of the environment. I celebrated Earth Day, World Water Day and Earth Hour to get them involved. I also encouraged them to reuse and recycle their resources. Then they began to acknowledge and express an interest in the same. We are facing a global problem that we need to combat together, and they know that their part is to educate and spread awareness. Have you faced any challenges with bringing the ENO initiative to fruition? Yes, in terms of communicating with ministries and getting a budget allocated. We will not be given a budget to cover the tree plantation for the targeted sector, so we plan on requesting schools, organisations and individuals to pay for their own trees. Do you think these measures will halt global warming, if done right? I don’t want to give out false hopes by stating the affirmative, but we can definitely control it. This is the only way we can continue to live in Bahrain. If sea levels rise, the repercussions Bahrain will have to face will be drastic. I wish everyone would be interested in protecting their community. We hope to help Bahrain reach Vision 2030 hand in hand and everyone can make a difference. g www.womanthismonth.com
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
MJ’s Bowling Lounge Opening
MJ’s Bowling Lounge held its opening night featuring celebrity R&B singer, Omarion, at its premises in Garden Plaza, Budaiya.
Tim, Richard, Jackie & Ector
Yara Omarion
Luna, Dani, Steffi, Evica & Ellign
Simran & Farah
James, Jene & Neil
Simone & Tamica
Angela & Lina
Aya, Yara, Jane, Joe & Najeeb Cathy & Jal
Rowan, Tina & Nadia
Ammar & Abeer
32 June 2016
Zero & Maria
Ahmed, Charlotte & Eyad
Winnie, Aisha & Isza
Abdulrahman & Sufyan
Maya & Mahdi
Moayed & Sarah
Nial & Ameena
Ebrahim
www.womanthismonth.com
PEOPLE | interview
Uniting Through Love Aiming to inspire through fashion, Splash is uniting diverse cultures through its current campaign titled ‘Love Unites’.
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he theme of the latest collection has a maximalism undertone, concentrating on embellishments, denim, and biker stud details. The essence behind the collection is to inspire people to harness change and spread positivity at a time when humanity has taken a hit. We had a chat with the CEO of Splash, Raza Beig, where he explains the significance of the campaign. WTM: What are some of the previous issues that have been addressed through Splash fashion campaigns? RB: This year we are moving on from being an aspirational brand to a more inspirational brand. We had had a successful stint with celebrities and this seemed to be the right direction considering the unrest in the world. Love, the emotion, has always had a strong presence in our campaigns in the past with ‘Love fashion’ and ‘In Love with Fashion’. This time around, we took up the issue of unity amongst diversity, surpassing all the barriers of caste, creed and race to create a campaign that inspires people and provokes thought. WTM: How did you decide on the new ‘Love Unites’ campaign? What is the significance of it for Splash? RB: My team and I always brainstorm every step we take to help the brand progress. I had multiple meetings with my agency and after many sessions, zeroed down on ‘Love Unites’, a campaign that truly embodies what the brand is looking to achieve and the message we intend to spread. We have six international models featured in the imagery which best represents the diversity. There is so much unrest in the world, we wanted to take on a route of inspiring people to be the change and spread positivity and love at a time when humanity has taken a hit. WTM: What is the significance of this campaign for the Middle East? RB: The Middle East has made a mark for itself on the world map as a huge melting pot of nationalities, which means living harmoniously with differences in traditions, thoughts and beliefs. A campaign that advocates the idea of everyone coming together, embracing the differences and uniting for love makes this a very relevant www.womanthismonth.com
This picture and below, behind the scenes on the shoot
which will include out of home, print, radio and TV. Digital campaigns will be the driving force of ‘Love Unites’ with the aim to connect and unite people through interactions with the brand and subsequently with each other.
campaign. We strongly believe that, through the language of fashion, we can make a difference and pitch to unite people on a common front.
WTM: How were the models chosen? RB: We chose models who culturally represented their heritage. These top models from across the globe reiterate our message of fashion transcending boundaries of caste, colour and creed.
WTM: We understand that the campaign will be interactive, please explain some ways through which it will help people connect with each other? RB: The campaign will be releasing across the MENA region, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka through a 360-degree communication strategy
WTM: What are the trends of the collection? RB: The collection comprises tailored and oversized silhouettes with a mod appeal and the grunge maximalism that is youth-centric. Splash caters essentially to an age group of early teens to mature working individuals so 14-35 year olds.
Raza Beig
June 2016
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PEOPLE | interview
BUILDING A BUSINESS PLATFORM Bindu Titus of online specialist DreamMakers writes for WTM on how to maximise technology to benefit your business.
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eing a female entrepreneur and finding success in today’s competitive world, in any field, is a huge challenge. What works and what doesn’t is determined by the right combination of form and relevance according to the customer experience. In the modern marketing landscape, the Internet with social media, blogs and SEO (search engine optimisation) allows you to reach almost anyone, no matter what industry your business is in. And 2016 could be a pivotal year, depending on how you position yourself through online marketing and how tech-savvy your online business is. Businesses today are either digital or becoming digital. With the massive reach and use of the World Wide Web in social media, content marketing and SEO, as well as pitching a strong and long-term presence for your business with digital marketing has become essential. A strong online presence and use of social media are considered valuable assets. However, for your business you need to make sure that it delivers a reasonable ROI on your
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time and resources. Women today are making their mark and their presence is felt in almost every field. They have realised the importance of marketing and how it could contribute to making their venture successful. DreamMakers can offer successful digital marketing results for your ventures in a number of ways. Firstly, when building a website or e-commerce shop, DreamMakers can assist you in making the site user-friendly and appealing to women with soft colours and a variety of
content relating to beauty, maternity, health and shopping in the blogs, along with promotions, etc. Above all, it is important that it is a quality site which is mobile compatible and it must open quickly, within a few seconds. Social media is an important tool to make your business presence felt online. Channels such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google Plus are great examples of social media options available to your business. By promoting your social media pages you will
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Who are DreamMakers? Dream Makers is a versatile and flexible technology oriented company powered by innovation and efficiency. It provides cost-effective IT solutions with proven expertise in delivering the complete range of IT services including product design, software development, onsite consulting, remote support and testing services. The company’s collaborative work approach with clients ensures optimal solutions in the shortest possible time. It believes in merging with the best minds from different domain specialisations for converging technology, strategy and creativity to deliver customised solutions. Corporate values include unfailing customer focus, collaborative team approach, in-built efficiency, accurate solution delivery bonded with trust and reliability. DreamMakers mission statement is to deliver high quality synergy solutions in the global scenario and to maintain value through knowledge, innovation and IT expertise. To provide quality software services for both the overseas and domestic markets and innovative solutions at the most competitive prices with world-class quality. ensure that you have real followers. Post vital updates and business-related posts to these channels, this will help to keep current customers entertained while engaging with them, while gaining new followers. DreamMakers builds quality SEO for websites. It takes at least a few months for a quality SEO to send real traffic and visitors and to get rankings and produce results. Please do not go in for fake agencies who promise traffic and results within a few days or a month at reduced prices. I recommend that you go for an established agency such as DreamMakers that is experienced in the field of digital marketing. Blogs are a wonderful way to attract more traffic to your website. DreamMakers also supports businesses in creating or adding a blog that features updates like offers, announcements and useful articles related to your business area and market trends. This can include articles on current www.womanthismonth.com
Bindu Titus
dressing and beauty trends if you own a fashion-related business such as a boutique. To be effective it should be posted on social media channels as it should reach the list that your business focuses on. Video marketing is gradually becoming more popular. The videos can be promoted by embedding and uploading them onto your website using YouTube, Vimeo, etc. Also consider email marketing and get new visitors to sign up for your newsletters. Email newsletters bring more relevant customers to your business. Opting for paid advertising ensures guaranteed results instantly on various platforms like Google adwords, Facebook ads, Twitter ads, LinkedIn ads, etc, if your marketing budget is flexible. To further advance your business, opt for a mobile application. Developing mobile applications for businesses is a growing trend
nowadays in the digital world. Launch a mobile application for iPhone and Android phones if your business is suitable as it is a mobile, strong way of marketing your business. This will encourage a huge audience of people through mobile phone usage. For example, Snapdeal and Flipkart enable mobile purchases of products through their mobile applications. Your business application should be available on the Appstore and Google Play. Social media is a powerful new frontier for business owners, particularly female entrepreneurs. To maximise the benefits, you should focus on sharing your story, showing vulnerability, connecting emotionally and developing relationships through giving. Let DreamMakers get you geared up for online business by getting your signature business ideas set on the right social media platforms. Call us at 36 753-625 or 17 290-091 or for more information visit www.dreammakersit. com or email us at info@dreammakersit.com. June 2016
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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Four Seasons Hotel held a media cooking class with celebrity chef, Wolfgang Cooking Class The Puck, at re/Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck restaurant.
Rumena & Amira
Chef Wolfgang Puck and invited guests
Eileen & Mahmood
Josh, Brian & Ben
New Kia Motors Showroom
Behnaz, chef Wolfgang Puck & Farheen
Tulin & Natasha
Bin Hindi Motors held a grand opening of its new Kia Motors showroom and the new Enaya Car Care Centre in Arad. The event also featured the launch of the all-new 2016 Kia Sportage. It was held under the patronage of HE Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy, and in the presence of ENOC (UAE) and Kia Motors officials.
Mohammed, Cheoran, Ahmed & Sayed
Dignitaries at the ribbon-cutting ceremony
Mohammed, Waleed & Fatima
36 June 2016
Soon, Mohammed, HE Park Ho, John & Shah
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FEATURE | motoring
HIT THE ROAD Some say cars are a boy thing but we reckon the girls are just as involved. From comfort to safety to speed, we’re often the ones checking out the specs, doing the fuel consumption comparisons and making, or at least contributing to, the final decisions. This month we’ve taken to the roads in the Porsche Macan and the Ssang Yong Tivoli and checked out the latest offering from Audi. We’ve also spoken to some real women on wheels and dug out some helpful online resources to check if you’re looking for a new car. www.womanthismonth.com
June 2016
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FEATURE | motoring
s l e e h W n o n e m o W t t than Formula One. Liz O’Reilly wen cui Cir nal atio ern Int n rai Bah to re There’s mo two rest of the year and caught up with the ing dur s pen hap at wh out d fin along to als. ’s largest team of female race marsh rld wo the of t par m for o wh n me wo of the
W
hether you’re a racing enthusiast or not, there’s something about the roar of the engines and squeal of tyres on hot Tarmac, and there can scarcely be anyone on this little island who hasn’t visited Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) at least once. Known worldwide as 'The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East', the BIC has hosted the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix since it opened in 2004 . In 2007 the venue became the first Grand Prix circuit to be awarded the distinguished FIA Institute Centre of Excellence award, given for excellent safety, race marshal and medical facilities, and for the high standards of technology required to maintain these. Generally one of the first races of the Grand Prix season, Bahrain’s big racing weekend draws massive international crowds and runs over three days with practices and qualifying rounds that the public can access at a fraction of the cost of the race itself. But, once the final chequered flag has fallen on F1 and the fleet of private aircraft have whisked the international jet set off to the next glamorous destination, the BIC gets on with the business of being a year-round destination for motorsports enthusiasts. The calendar includes Bahrain Drag Racing
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Championship, the biggest drag racing series in the Gulf, which is backed up by regular drag and drift nights at which non-racers can put their own skills to the test. There’s also the BIC 2,000cc Challenge, the Kingdom’s own local racing championship, and the Bahrain Superbike Championship, the newest addition to the calendar. And, towards the end of the year, there’s the FIA WEC Six Hours of Bahrain, an eclectic endurance race, attracting some of the biggest names in the motor racing business, which
takes its inspiration from the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. The track itself, in terms of future race development and everyday operation, is run by a management team headed by chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa but the actual races are run by a team of highly competent and dedicated marshals. In total 1,250 marshals operate at the circuit, of which 25-30 per cent are women, thought to be the world’s highest percentage www.womanthismonth.com
Check out members of the Bahrain marshals team getting their Happy on.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAFxnC3eNqY
We are one of the top circuits in the world for safety and security... of females in this role. They are part of the Bahrain Motor Sports Federation; most are Bahraini and all are volunteers. Becoming a marshal isn’t hard, but it does require dedication – they’re out at the track whenever there’s something on and can be doing anything from corner flagging to sitting in the race control observing to ensure fair play and safety. The track’s Mohamed Shareeda explains: “Marshals begin as a track runner, or flaggie, then, as they become more experienced, they are ranked up to junior and move through the ranks to senior, second and eventually chief marshal. Marshals are at every event. For the smaller ones, there might be 50 or 60 of them; for a big event, like the F1 or the WEC, the whole team will be here. “The majority are in the pits and scrutineering, and they’re also at points around the track. They also carry out prior and post-race inspections on the cars to ensure the rules of the different championships are being followed. “We are one of the top circuits in the world for safety and security and our marshals were involved with helping set up the Abu Dhabi race. Our teams are now travelling to Azerbaijan, which has its first F1 this year, to help train the team there. In fact we already have people out there doing demonstrations of things like extraction and recovery [essential if www.womanthismonth.com
Bayan Alghanem is 24 and has been marshalling since 2013. A customer sales operative at Batelco, she says: “I decided to do it for the experience. “I’m a race communicator, which means I observe the track and give instructions to the flag marshals. “Since I started work, I can’t come so often but I come when I can and I really enjoy it. “For me, also, the F1 is the most exciting race because it’s dark and the lights give an extra excitement. “Once you join the BIC, it’s like being part of a family. We all do things together and my sister, Jenan, is also a marshal.” Bayan will be going to Abu Dhabi later in the year as part of a marshal exchange so she will experience the region’s other big racing event. there is a crash]. “For anyone who wants to become a marshal, they just have to get in touch and register. There is a short interview and then training and, of course, they start at the most junior level. It’s a great way to learn about motor sport and we really are like a family here. We socialise together and support each other; it’s a really fun thing to be involved in.”
Foz Janahi, 29, is a senior marshal who’s been helping to run races for 10 years. During the week she works in operations admin for Injaz Bahrain but, at the weekend, there’s nowhere she would rather be than trackside. She says: “Lots of my friends are marshals, so that’s how I got involved. I do it for the excitement. I love the adrenalin! “I used to study at the University of Bahrain [which is close to the circuit] when F1 started. I loved the noise and the power and really wanted to be involved. “Our job is to observe all around the track and, for example, if there is an accident, we give instructions for the marshals on what to do. “My favourite race is the F1; there’s nothing like it for the feeling of excitement. But I was also here when we had the 24-hour race and that was really great. “We have a new lady marshal starting today. She will be coming to learn how things are done. It’s always great having new people joining the racing family. “My own family, too, are super supportive. Whenever I get home from a race, I sit down with my dad and go through all that’s happened during the day and he gives me feedback. It’s a brilliant thing for us to share. “I started out as a flaggie [one of the most junior members of the marshals team] and now I’m a senior and I’ll be part of the group going to Azerbaijan to help set up that race, which is really exciting. Being a marshal gives me the chance to meet new people and do things I’d never otherwise get to do.” And, asked if she ever fancies taking to the track herself, the answer is an emphatic “Yes. I haven’t done it yet, but there’s always a possibility.”
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showcase
MOTOR CITY
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS Liz O'Reilly checks out an SUV that shows this company has upped its game.
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sangYong is known for building economical, workmanlike vehicles which get the job done but with few frills. However, with the latest edition of the Tivoli, the brand has gone upmarket, looking to grab a slice of the more mainstream crossover pie. The 2016 Tivoli comes with many of the bells and whistles you’d expect from a more expensive vehicle. I particularly liked the reversing camera which pops up on the radio display; very useful given that this car is really spacious and quite a lot of machine to get into a small space. And the radio itself is really easy to navigate even when driving at speed, plus the sound quality makes for a tuneful motoring experience. The styling is certainly aiming for a more upmarket feel with the top-of-the-range version I drove featuring leather interiors, glossy black trim and seats comfortable enough that you’d swear they were designed with orthopaedics in mind. In fact the whole interior is pretty impressive. The control console has been designed for efficiency coupled with good looks. Everything is within easy reach and intuitive, so you don’t find yourself searching for buttons and switches while you’re on the move. I found the console lighting a little too bright but I’m assured this is variable and there’s even
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an option to customise it to suit your mood by setting the cluster illumination to any one of six subtle background colours ranging from sky blue to yellow. With its 1.6-litre, 128hp engine, powering a car that can comfortably seat five adults with ample space left over for shopping or luggage, you wouldn’t necessarily expect the Tivoli to be a sporty ride, though there is a sport mode option on the steering system. But what this car is, is comfortable. I went for a spin over to Amwaj and had a very enjoyable drive along the highway. Steady cruising makes for a smooth motoring experience and the car is built to the highest
possible safety specifications with front and knee driver airbags, front passenger airbag, side airbags in the front and curtain airbags. The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) also adds to the vehicle’s excellent safety credentials monitoring road conditions and vehicle status constantly, adjusting engine output and braking if it seems you’re about to lose control. The ESP integrates the antilock braking system, active rollover protection, anti-slip regulation and brake-force assist. Additional features include hill start assist, tyre pressure monitoring system and outside parking sensors. The Tivoli comes in a range of eight colours – Techno Grey, Jazz Brown, Icecap Blue, Dandy Blue, Flaming Red, Silent Silver, Grand White and Space Black – with an equally impressive selection of interior finishes, including black or beige leather, woven or a TPU/cloth combination. For a sportier look you can go for a striking red option which takes in seats, steering wheel, trim and seatback bands. And, with the younger motorist in mind, there are five two-tone body and roof colour combinations matched with either black or white 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The UK’s Auto Express says of the Tivoli: “Easily the best-looking modern SsangYong with an interior that's functional, spacious and wellequipped.” And, after my short time with the car, I couldn’t agree more. www.womanthismonth.com
FEATURE | motoring
Anne Al Zayani
Biker Babe Motorcyclist Anne Al Zayani talks facing her fears and the liberation of the open road.
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nne freely admits that the first time she went on a bike she was “scared to death’. It was October 2010 and she had taken part in the Think Pink charity ride as a passenger with a good friend whose husband had cancer. Less than 12 months later she had got her licence and bought her first bike, a Harley Davidson Sportster. Her husband feared she would be one of those people who buys a bike and just parks it in the garage but that couldn’t have been further from the truth. Anne explains: “That summer, Harley Davidson had a points for mileage promotion. Between June, July and August, 2011, I clocked up 5,500km despite it being the hottest months of the year. I was crazy about it.” Anne went on to become an active member of the Bahrain Harley Davidson committee which saw her undertaking the HOT, Harley Officers Training, course in Milwaukee, the home of the iconic brand, followed by a 10-day trip around the USA. Anne says: “It was my first experience on a bike outside Bahrain, it was winter and very, very cold. But it was a great experience.” These days Anne rides with Bahrain Bikers and she recently did a trip with them as the only woman in a group of 10 riders travelling 4,000km down the California coastline in
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One of the best things I have found about biking is that I’ve met some amazing people along the way the USA taking in the Grand Canyon and San Francisco. And in September she will be heading back to America for another long ride – though this time there will be other women in the group. She says: “To be honest, when I’m on the bike in my jacket and helmet, you wouldn’t even necessarily know I’m a woman and people are sometimes surprised to find me travelling with a group of men. Culturally some people might have a problem. But the guys I ride with treat me like a princess and it’s an absolute pleasure to travel with them.” She adds that the group travels quite a lot and a trip to Oman presented one of her most scary moments on the bike. “We were in the mountains and there was a storm coming in, the guide told us we needed to leave straight
away but within five minutes there was a flood and we were riding through thigh-deep water. We had to keep going, if we’d stopped who knows when we would have got out.” But despite the risks, Anne no longer feels afraid. She continues: “The other day I had a bit of a chuckle to myself. I had the urge to take both hands off the controls and I did it. It was just for a few seconds, but I thought to myself it was a tremendous achievement for me to have come so far. I started off scared but eventually riding becomes so comfortable that it's second nature and you don’t even think about it, you do it naturally.” And she would very definitely urge other ladies to take a turn in the saddle saying: “What I’d like to tell other women, particularly in this part of the world, is that it’s liberating and exhilarating. There is nothing quite like the feeling of riding fast down an open road. “One of the best things I have found about biking is that I’ve met some amazing people along the way.” Perhaps the final word on Anne’s twowheeled journey should go to her 14-yearold son Ebrahim, who regularly rides as her passenger. “It’s a very cool thing to do and she’s a very cool mum.” www.womanthismonth.com
showcase BEHBEHANI BROTHERS
WHERE PERFORMANCE AND SECURITY MEET Liz O’Reilly finds herself falling in love with the Porsche Macan.
THE MACAN BY N UMBERS
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’m no petrol head by a long shot. In fact my current vehicle is a bit like a cross between a garbage disposal, a closet and a kennel. As long as it gets me from A to B and the air-con and radio work, that’s pretty much all I ask. But, when someone suggests you take a Porsche for a spin, even an automotive ignoramus like me would be hard-pushed not to feel a frisson of excitement. I collected the brand new, bright blue Macan S from the Behbehani Brothers showroom with, I must confess, a hint of trepidation. A small disagreement with a bus the week before had left me more than a little nervous. But this is a feature about women on wheels and, for this purpose, my regular male motoring colleague simply would not do. A quick demonstration of how to get the thing going and I was off pootling at a gentle 70km/h towards the yacht club. The handling’s so smooth, you could almost forget you’re motoring at all, but little touches such as the left-hand positioning of the ignition – a hangover from when drivers at the world-famous Le Mans would run to their car and start it at the beginning of the race (the left-hand key slot meaning they could cut their time by hitting both ignition and gears simultaneously) – and a tiny steering wheel www.womanthismonth.com
backed by steel lugs for manual operation, which give an almost industrial appearance, are a reminder that you’re actually driving a piece of motor racing heritage. It's a fact that makes itself abundantly clear when you hit the open road. I briefly found myself stuck behind a cement mixer, but the merest tap of the accelerator and the Macan’s 340 horses sprang into life with a throaty roar powering me past the obstacle and a good way further down the road somewhat faster than I was expecting – this is a car built to scare old ladies; I know, I am one! A little terror is a good thing and there is much to be said in praise of the Macan; in fact, I did tell friends I was just a teensy bit in love. But, given the aforementioned accident, the one thing I liked more than any other is just how safe it made me feel. Yes, it’s a sports car – Porsche adamantly doesn’t make anything else. But, from my point of view, it’s reassuringly solid and the handling’s so responsive that my earlier nerves were soon forgotten. It’s not so big as to be cumbersome but big enough, with the seats down, to fit my two large dogs or the spoils of a serious afternoon’s credit card bashing. So, on that score, it’s a thumbs up. The control console looks a bit space-age but
Engine: 2-3.6litres Number of cylinders: 6 Displacement: 2,997 cm Engine layout: Front engine / active all-wheel drive Power: 250 kW (340hp) at rpm 5,500-6,500 1/min Max. torque: 460Nm at rpm 1,450-5,000 Compression ratio: 9.8 : 1 Performance Top speed: 254 km/h Acceleration: 0-100 km/h 5.4 seconds In-gear acceleration: (80-120km/h) 3.6 seconds Design The Macan comes in 10 colour options with eight different interior combinations. Price Starting price
BD19,200
everything’s really easily reachable and you quickly become accustomed to the touch button parking brake and fingertip command air-con, which, like everything else about this car, is seriously efficient. So, there we have it. I started out by saying my car needed to be dog-sized and with efficient air conditioning and radio – the Macan met all my requirements in spades. Just a shame I had to give it back. June 2016
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showcase EURO MOTORS
A POWERFUL STATEMENT
This marque is well known for trend-setting designs and premium quality. For those who want to extend this experience beyond the road, check out the BMW Lifestyle Collections.
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he new BMW Lifestyle Collections, presented in the centenary year of the BMW Group, now offer an even wider range to choose from, with more than 250 new products and styles. An array of new watches joins the 2016 BMW Collection. Sporty features merge with sophisticated appeal and, thanks to a large variety of different designs, there is a model to suit everyone’s taste. The BMW Day Date model (ladies’ and men’s) has a Swiss Ronda movement, structured dial pattern and leather strap, giving it a timelessly elegant feel. The new BMW Chrono Watch, with its angular stainless-steel case and embossed leather strap, is as useful as it is eye-catching. The unisex chronograph also features a round dial with an integrated tachymeter
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around the rim, a date display and a coloured BMW logo at the top of the dial. With a diameter of 43mm, a polished bezel and a bright blue dial, the BMW Sport Chronograph men’s watch makes a strong visual statement. The robust bracelet, with links of brushed stainless steel and a butterfly clasp, make the chronograph a reliable companion for every adventure. Like all BMW watches, this model is equipped with a high-quality quartz movement by Ronda. Meanwhile, BMW has added two new items to its luggage
collection. With the BMW Garment Bag and the BMW Duffle Bag, it is easier than ever to travel comfortably and in style, the company says. With large zips and ventilated side pockets, the new BMW Garment Bag provides optimal storage for clothes and shoes. Flat mesh pockets inside the bag keep clothing neatly organised at all times. And there’s a further clever feature: using the side zips, the bag can be converted quickly and easily into a stylish weekender-size bag. The new BMW Duffle Bag provides a fashionable alternative to regular sports bags and small suitcases. This spacious bag has a herringbone design, with genuine leather straps and the BMW logo on both sides. Visit Euro Motors to find out more about BMW’s products or visit the BMW store at http://shop.bmwgroup.com
FEATURE | motoring
Making Your Mind Up We take a look at a few of the issues you may want to consider before buying a new or used vehicle.
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hether you want a Ferrari or a Citroen, the island is certainly well served with car dealerships representing all the main motor manufacturers and a few you may never have heard of. No doubt,each will tell you their product is the best and a spin behind the wheel may be enough to convince you that you’ve found your new automotive soul mate. However, before you take the plunge and hand over your hard-earned cash, there are a few things to take into account. SAFETY The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) produces annual lists of the vehicles it considers the most safe on the roads. Its tests evaluate two aspects of safety: crashworthiness — how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash; and crash avoidance and mitigation — technology that can prevent a crash or lessen its severity. To determine crashworthiness, IIHS rates vehicles good, acceptable, marginal or poor, based on performance in five tests: moderate overlap front, small overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraints. In the area of crash avoidance and mitigation, IIHS assigns vehicles with available front crash prevention systems ratings of basic, advanced or superior, www.womanthismonth.com
based on the type of system and performance in track tests. However, this is not a contest in which there is a winner, unless, of course, it’s the motorist. What’s very quickly evident is that there are a lot of very safe cars to choose from, broken down into categories ranging from minicars to minivans via small, mid-size and large cars, luxury cars and SUVs, across three size categories. In the small car section the Japanese are well represented with Acura, Honda, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Mazda all making the cut alongside Volkswagen and Kia. The same names dominate in the mid-size range, joined by Hyundai, Audi, BMW, Volvo and Lexus. And across large cars and SUVs, Infiniti and Buick are added. To find out if your potential new vehicle is on the list, visit http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/ TSP-List.
fuel efficiency a much greater consideration when choosing a new or used car, whether for family or business use. Most manufacturers' websites provide information on fuel optimum consumption. However, if you are seeking independent vehicle comparisons, check out the US Department of Energy’s www.fueleconomy. gov/feg/findacar.shtml or www.fuel-economy. co.uk/mpg.php both of which give figures for fuel consumption across a range of vehicles as well as top tips on how to get the most from your car. ENVIRONMENTAL CREDENTIALS Vehicle emissions have been much in the news recently with two big auto manufacturers admitting falsifying their testing statistics. And on a small island like Bahrain, the amount of pollution from vehicle exhausts is an issue of prime importance. To assess the greenness, or otherwise, of the vehicle you’ve got your eye on, visit www.gov.uk/co2-and-vehicle-tax-tools or https://e360.yale.edu/digest/vehicle_ emissions_database where you’ll find a detailed list of vehicle emissions.
FUEL CONSUMPTION The Kingdom has recently had its first fuel price rises in many years and, with subsidies being drastically reduced, further increases could be in the pipeline. Expats who have previously taken advantage of cheap fuel to drive large-engined vehicles they could never afford to run at home, are now making June 2016
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showcase AUDI
MORE POWERFUL, EFFICIENT AND INTELLIGENT The latest offering from this reputed German automaker packs plenty of punch and is sure to delight driving enthusiasts across the Kingdom.
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hen it comes to innovation, Audi is a marque that is famous for setting the standard. It comes as no surprise then that the new-generation A4 has been redeveloped, setting even higher benchmarks for its class. Its elegant design blends with an innovative control concept and lightweight construction meets new, efficient drivetrain solutions. The new A4 is also ahead of its peers in terms of infotainment and assistance systems, awarded a top safety score of five stars by the European consortium Euro NCAP. This is a good looking model, no question. It has sleek curves, striking lines and it was recently crowned best mid-sized car of 2016 in a poll of 115,239 readers of the German magazine, Auto Motor Und Sport. The A4 boasts an even more comprehensive list of standard equipment than its predecessor. It includes xenon headlights, keyless go, a Bluetooth interface, Audi drive select and a seven-inch MMI colour display. In addition, the luxury sedan has the best drag coefficient in its class at 0.23 and impressively low CO2 emissions. A new generation of four-cylinder TFSI
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engines, with newly developed combustion methods, sets benchmarks in terms of fuel consumption, emissions and performance. Their power output has increased significantly and ranges from 150bhp to 252bhp, but fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 21 per cent. Three different TFSI models are on offer in the Middle East: 35 TFSI with 150bhp (1.4 engine), 40 TFSI with 190bhp (2.0 engine) and the top-of-the-range engine 45 TFSI with 252bhp (2.0 engine). Besides being incredibly fun and rewarding to drive, the new model offers an abundance of intelligent technologies, the use of which is
even more intuitive with the new Audi MMI display and control concept. Technological highlights of the new A4 include the Audi virtual cockpit, the Audi Matrix LED headlights, the Audi smartphone interface, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 3D sound, the Audi phone box with wireless charging, the head-up display and new driver assistance systems like the parking assist, rear cross-traffic assist, exit warning, collision avoidance assist, turn assist and the Audi presense systems. The MMI control concept in the centre console is a newly designed feature and acts as the main control element. The top-end infotainment system, MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch and a large 8.3-inch monitor, has a touchpad in the rotary controller to zoom in and out and to enter characters. The entire MMI control logic is similar to that of a smartphone and includes an intelligent freetext search function. This is a car you have to drive yourself to fully appreciate. Call 17 459-933. www.womanthismonth.com
BEAUTY | celeb spot
the teen star has a bold style that can be copied by fashionistas of all ages.
check it out! The Perfect Brow It’s disappointing if brows are sparse and uneven. So, colouring them, permanently or with a brow pencil (even better if you have a whole kit to draw a new shape and fill in with perfection), is the solution. Just don’t make them too dark otherwise they will look artificial, one shade lighter than your hair works best.
Eyes On Brown eye shadow. Dark tones teamed up with lighter shades work really well for most skin types. Deep purple is also a good option to achieve the same result. A pearly shimmer applied in the inner lid will really make your make-up pop. Full, dark lashes add the final touch. If you’re not blessed with long, full cilia, make use of the wide variety of false lashe. When well applied, they look great!
Tamed Mane Braids are a great favourite with little girls but are also frequently spotted on the heads of stylish grown-ups. The technique is a clever way to create a different and cool effect without changing the colour or length of your hair. Give it a try next time you have a special party or event to attend.
Zendaya Coleman Nude Lipstick Since there are infinite skin tones, experimenting to find the shade that best matches your complexion is the idea. However, they look best when the colour is a shade lighter or darker (as in Zendaya’s case), rather than an exact match.
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Absolutely Flawless The golden rule for any successful make-up. Use the arsenal of concealers available in the market to reach a natural result and opt for a foundation in the same shade as your skin, with a matte effect. Stay away from layers and layers of foundation!
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BEAUTY | news
Bobbi Brown Face Masks. Healthy skin is the first step towards flawless make-up. Bobbi Brown cosmetics introduces a skincare mask trio that consists of an Instant Detox, Skin Nourish and Radiance Boost. The products can be used together or individually for a customised rejuvenation regimen. Available at all leading retailers.
Eucerin Sun Oil Control Dry Touch Face SPF 50+. Specially created for oily and acne-prone skin, its formula combines very high UV protection with an ultralight formulation. The solution also includes sebum-regulation and mattifying ingredients to control oil production. Available at all leading retailers.
Sephora Rose Lip Mask. This mask has a moisturising and softening purpose. It includes rose extract and should be applied over the lips twice a week for best results. Available at Sephora.
Summertime means sunscreen. Ensure your make-up kit and hydration arsenal protect your complexion. We’ve rounded up musthave SPF items, scents and colours. Shiseido Suncare Protection. With SuperVeilUV 360TM and ProfenseCELTM technology, this product protects skin from damage caused by external aggressors such as UV rays and dryness. It is resistant to water and sebum providing a longlasting finish. Available as a compact, liquid or stick foundation format. Available at all leading retailers.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream AllOver Miracle Oil. The new oil formulation can be used on the face, body and hair for deep moisturising and conditioning. It brings a mix of botanical oils and extracts such as tsubaki oil, grape seed oil, olive, avocado and sunflower seed oils, ginger root extract, boswellia resin and vitamin E. Available at all leading retailers. Bottega Verde Uva Rossa Rossetto Idratante Intenso. The Italian brand brings a lipstick line enriched with red grape extract and hyaluronic acid in a wide selection of rich colours. The creamy texture delivers moisture and comfort to the lips with a sweet and light scent. Available at Bottega Verde.
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Elie Saab Le Parfum Rose Couture. This new fragrance is inspired by the heart of Elie Saab Le Parfum, whose orange blossom is brightened by rose petal honey. The rose extract is blended with fresh peony and jasmine, enhanced with fruit facets and softened with a dash of vanilla. Available at all leading retailers. www.womanthismonth.com
Clarins Self Tanning Milky-Lotion. This selftanner has SPF protection and creates a natural-looking tan that lasts. It defends the skin from ageing agents, providing 24-hour hydration. The milky texture melts into the skin for an even application and streak-free result throughout the year and in any weather. Available at all leading retailers.
Lancaster Sun Beauty Hair Multi Oil Repair. Designed to work in one minute, this protective hairspray formula contains oils renowned for their repairing power. Argan oil nourishes and hydrates the hair fibre and inca inchi oil coats each hair cuticle, closing the scales. Available at all leading retailers.
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Inglot AMC Multicolour Highlighting Powder. Developed to be applied on both face and body, this highlighting powder comes in five shades of satin pearl pigments. Enriched with nylon and sponge gourd oil, it provides a silky finish and light glow. Available at Inglot.
Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder. For a natural tan, this powder comes in eight different shades to cover all sorts of complexions. The Terracotta line borrows its warm and ochre tones from the sun’s rays and desert sand infused with a delicate scent of ylang-ylang. Available at all leading retailers.
Prada Candy Kiss. The brand’s latest fragrance embraces the idea of creating a loop of sensations out of a single signature note. The starting point is the presence of musk, with its purity and tenderness leaving its mark from top to base notes. The scent also introduces white cotton, vanilla and orange blossom nuances. Available at all leading retailers.
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showcase BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL
BALANCING THE FACE
Dr Salil Bharadwaj, consultant plastic surgeon, explains the intricacies of the nose job.
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asal surgery (rhinoplasty), is one of the most common forms of plastic surgery. It is a procedure that alters the framework of the nose, manipulating the bone, cartilage structure and the skin to improve the appearance. It can be used to change the overall appearance of the face to draw focus away from the nose and towards the eyes, a more natural, pleasing occurrence. Rhinoplasty surgery, when performed correctly, improves the harmony of the facial features. Common defects corrected through the use of rhinoplasty include a nose that is too large, too small, crooked or may contain an unwanted hump, birth defect or other deformity. If the nose has been damaged by physical trauma, the surgery may be more extensive than a mere straightening or reduction and may involve an area wider than the nose to fully reconstruct the damage. You and your doctor should discuss exactly
Hilton Tailors Opening
Dr Salil Bharadwaj
what you want done and how the doctor is going to accomplish your request. Remember this: rhinoplasty surgery is both a science and an art, as is any plastic surgery. Any other surgeon has to be only competent – a
plastic surgeon has to be competent and have artistic talent. It is important that the finished product creates a harmonious balance with the rest of your face, is natural looking and lasts forever, as well as being medically sound. Rhinoplasty is different from the surgical procedure used to repair a deviated septum to improve a patient's breathing, although the two are quite often done simultaneously. The operation can be performed with or without any external incisions. Many uncomplicated rhinoplasties can be performed as day care, but more typically hospitalisation is for a day. A splint is placed around the outside of the nose for protection and is usually removed after about a week. There is typically some swelling after the procedure, however, after about one week your new nose will be completely presentable and most people find the return to their jobs goes smoothly and easily. Email: salil.bharadwaj@bsh.com.bh
Hilton Tailors held a grand opening event at its new one-stop shop in Juffair.
Lea & Ian
Roufel & Afsana
Charmi & Jessy
Joseph, Hussain & George
Alvin
Jessy, Jovita & James
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Leena, Jumana & Jiana
George & Ryan
Wilma & Dominic
Shane
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showcase GULF PHARMACY
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
Taking inspiration from Japanese technology, Pure Gold Collagen is a unique liquid beauty supplement designed to nourish skin from the inside out, targeting the visible signs of ageing associated with collagen loss.
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eveloped by Minerva Research Labs and European scientists, Pure Gold Collagen combines a unique sugar-free blend of hydrolysed collagen, hyaluronic acid and other active ingredients. One shot is up to 20 times more effective than using a topical collagen cream or collagen pill. Minerva Research Labs, whose main product is Gold Collagen, is one of 46 businesses that have become the latest addition to the London Stock Exchange’s (LSE) elite programme. Developed to meet growing demand for a more natural, effective and reliable solution to anti-ageing, this ready-to-drink food supplement can be taken alone or to enhance an existing skincare regime. Collagen is a major protein in the skin. It plays a key role in providing the structural scaffolding for cells, tissues and organs but it also gives skin strength and durability and is responsible for the smooth, plump appearance
of young, healthy skin. As we get older, the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin gradually decreases causing dehydration and a dull complexion. The unique hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid combined with the highest quality collagen contained in Pure Gold Collagen offer the ultimate in skin cell regeneration and hydration, softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in as little as six weeks. Once consumed, Pure Gold Collagen is distributed to the dermis, the deeper layer of the skin, and results in the multiplication and stimulation of fibroblast cells which make
collagen in the skin’s connective tissue. Whilst some creams claim to be able to reach the dermis, Pure Gold Collagen actually targets the fibroblast cells, triggering them to make more collagen. With a European patent pending, Pure Gold Collagen contains the highest quality hydrolysed collagen (5000mg), borage oil, N-acetylglucosamine, hyaluronic acid, vitamins C, E, B6, Biotin and minerals zinc and copper designed to deliver maximum absorption and bio-availability. Pure Gold Collagen is available at Gulf Pharmacy, Nasser Pharmacy, Ruyan Pharmacy, Bahrain Pharmacy and New Green Pharmacy.
Bahrain Pharmacy www.womanthismonth.com
New Pharmacy June 2016
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showcase JOZ SALON & SPA
SUMMER TRESSES
When it's too hot to move, let alone blow-dry, curl or flat-iron, it's time to get creative to get that gorgeous summer hair.
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ust as the sun damages your skin, it can damage your hair too. Saltwater and chlorine also take a toll on our tresses. The not-so-pretty outcome – a few weeks into summer, hair that was shiny and easily managed looks and feels fried. “The ultraviolet rays of the sun actually cook the hair shaft,” says a Joz Salon & Spa hairstylist. “The damage is most obvious when we see colour-treated hair becoming faded, bleached and brassy.” Even hair that isn't coloured will suffer from sun-induced stress, as UV rays dry out hair and rough up the normally smooth cuticle of the shaft.
FRIZZ FACTOR
The drier the hair is, the more likely it is to suffer from frizz, because parched hair soaks up the extra humidity in the air, causing the shaft to swell and leading to breaks in the cuticle.
SWIMMING DAMAGE
Swimming beats up your hair too, as chlorine strips it of its natural protective oils. Blondes may find their locks taking on an unflattering greenish cast, caused by the copper molecules and other pool chemicals that bind to the protein in the hair shaft. The heavy salt content in seawater also stresses the hair, by drawing water out and leaving it parched.
TIPS FOR HEALTHY SUMMER HAIR
Summer doesn't have to be the season of bad
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hair days. With some extra TLC, your locks can look great even on the steamiest days. Here are some hot-weather tress-taming tips: 1. Start summer with a trim: get rid of split ends and refresh your style. You might need a mid-season cut too as hair really does grow faster in the warmer months. 2. Shield your strands from the sun: make a daily habit of applying a hair care product that contains UV filters (these can be in a label.m spray, gel or cream formula), to protect from sun damage and help keep colour-processed hair from fading. If you're spending lots of time outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your hair as well as scalp and ears that are vulnerable to skin cancer. 3. Saturate strands before taking a dip: if your hair is drenched with clean water or leave-in
conditioner, it won't absorb as much saltwater or pool chemicals. It's also a good idea to rinse your hair after a swim. 4. Switch to a moisturising shampoo and conditioner: you may be washing your hair more frequently to deal with summer's sweat and grime. Hairdressers also suggests using a clarifying or anti-residue shampoo once a week to clear away product buildup and chemicals. Be sure to follow with a deepconditioning treatment. 5. Skip the hot tools: at least once or twice a week, give your hair a break from blow dryers, flat- and curling-irons. Wash your hair at night; pile it up in a bun, braid or ponytail before going to bed, and wake up with gorgeous wavy hair – a perfect look for weekends, or make it work-ready with accessories like a thin headband or pretty hair clips. 6. Outwit frizz: hair that's healthy and wellmaintained is your best defense against frizz. Along with regular trims and conditioning, a drop or two of a label.m anti-frizz oil or serum can help smooth hair and add shine. But let's face it, with humidity, frizz is bound to happen. Don't waste your summer trying to fight it, instead, find an easy hairdo like a slick pony, high bun or side braid for those high-humidity days. Call 17 369-133, 17 756-449 or 16 031-120 for more information. www.womanthismonth.com
showcase MIDDLE EAST MEDICAL CENTER
THE BEAUTY OF COSMETOLOGY
Maintaining one’s physical appearance and attractiveness has become an important aspect in the lives of both men and women. This popular medical centre offers all the expertise to enhance your looks.
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any say that it is our external aura and beauty that truly mirrors our internal wellbeing. This is why Middle East Medical Center’s (MEM) Cosmetology & Dermatology Department, also known as Change Clinic, justly uses a holistic approach to enhance and essentially maintain the ‘perfect look’. The centre is known as home to some of the region’s highly skilled cosmetologists, who have advanced training in hair transplants and cosmetic procedures, backed with years of medical experience in the field using world-class medically proven technologies. Basing the theory of dermatology on three key
pillars – science, technology and aesthetics – MEM dermatologists use this unique three-in-one approach to develop and maintain innovative products and services to successfully treat a range of beauty-related issues. These include complaints such
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as hair loss, ageing skin, acne, skin infections, psoriasis and many more. The experts at MEM are also known to provide intensive cosmetic services including botox and fillers, face-lifts, body firming and treatments, wart and mole removals, etc.
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With the help of highly efficient skin specialists and value-added consultations, patients can access specialised treatments and services in a spa-like environment. The treatments are available with very little or no downtime, with effective results, thus helping patients to carry on and go about their day-to-day lives in no time. Through cosmetic dermatology, MEM’s cosmetologists can definitely change the way you look at yourself by enhancing your natural beauty and adding that extra edge of confidence to your character and personality. Call 17 464-848 for more information and to avail of MEM’s value-added services.
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Cosmetology & Dermatology
EXPERTISE
HAIR TRANSPLANTATION (FUE) BOTOX & FILLERS FINE THREAD CONTOURING PAINLESS HAIR REMOVAL TATTOO REMOVAL FACE & BODY FIRMING & TIGHTENING SCAR RESURFACING & SKIN PORE REDUCTION VAGINAL REJUVENATION PRP THERAPY MESOHAIR THERAPY MESOLIPO THERAPY DERMAROLLER ACNE TREATMENT PIGMENTATION TREATMENT WART & MOLE REMOVAL MED SPA FACIALS
Dr. Jitesh Shetty Hair Transplantation (FUE Technique)
Botox & Fillers
Specialist
Dermatologist & Cosmetologist
Dr. Amer Shehabi Specialist
Laser Hair Removal
MED-SPA
Dermatologist & Cosmetologist
MEM Timing 7:00am to 11:00 pm www.womanthismonth.com
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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
Art Exhibition
Multiple Images, an exhibition displaying works by nine Bahrain-based artists, Beverly West, Carie Sauze, Imtiaz Ahmad, Irina Averinos, Jacqueline de Freitas, Leanne Marshall, Meriel Cooper Wallace, Nadia Al Jar and Yusra Ahmed, was held at Malja, Amwaj.
Karon, Lorraine, Tracey & Leanne
Michael Chen, Albert & Belinda
Irina
Felty, Neewam & Andrea Jacqueline & Khalil
Yusra & Ahmed
Noor & Marjan Lynne & Irene
Tyrone & Pauline
Zainab, Nadia & Fareeda
Yanni & Lisa
Kyle
Ratna & Mandy
Restaurant Menu Launch
Eman & Nariman
Andrea & Martin
Sheraton Bahrain Hotel held a media launch for the new menu of Golestan Restaurant.
Edwin, Raj, Gayatri, Rama, Hussain, Cristalyn, Thomas, Ashish & Yahya
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Beverley & Alan
Abdullatif
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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
AWA Awards
The American Women’s Association (AWA) presented its service awards at the Movenpick Hotel. The event was held in the presence of HE William Roebuck, American ambassador, and his wife, Ann.
Lia & Terri
Jacqueline & Diana
Sandey & Sara
Alba & Diana
Lisa & Janice
Tracey & Liz
Angela & Karen
Brenda & Amanda
Iman & Silvia
HE William Roebuck & Ann
Cathy, Jenny & Jacqueline
Female Founder Workshop
CH9 held a Female Founder workshop at its office in Amwaj.
Mohammed Al Tawash
Zahra, Sahar & Ahmed
Ash
Calina & Nada
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Cathia & Katerina
Sonya & Eman
Maryam, Areej & Sarah
Baraah & Fatema
Amani
Alya & Sally
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FEATURE | ramadan
RamadanKareem The Holy Month is a time of abstention and reflection for Muslims with the breaking of the fast an occasion for family and friends to come together at sunset to enjoy good food and good company. For nonMuslims the island’s many Iftars and Ghabgas present a unique opportunity to sample traditional Arabic dishes that are not always available at other times. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite places to enjoy this special time of year.
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Bushra Bahrain Enjoy a nutritious and mouthwatering variety of salads, traditional Arabic dishes, a live meat grilling station and a delectable spread of desserts in a charming Arabesque setting. Iftar is priced at BD18 net. For more information, call 17 460-017.
Four Seasons
Bahrain Bay Overlooking breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, the Al Bahrain Ballroom offers a sumptuous dining area and an enigmatic shisha lounge. The buffet offers Lebanese, Moroccan, Indian, Turkish and global cuisine with live cooking stations. Iftar starts at BD25++ from sunset till 8pm, and Ghabga at BD27++ from 9pm to 2am. Kids under 12 dine at half price. For more information, call 17115000.
Palace and Spa Embrace the essence of Arabian majesty at the Nadwah ballroom, which transforms into a dazzling space for the duration of the Holy Month, letting you indulge in a feast after the fast. Iftar buffet, which starts at sundown till 9pm daily, is priced at BD15++ on weekdays, and BD17++ on weekends. The Ghabga buffet is priced at BD16++ on weekdays and BD19++ on weekends. For more information, call 17 845-000.
Bahrain, Hotel and Spa Savour the beautiful lighting and unprecedented hospitality of the Al Khayma Tent, offering a truly satisfying Iftar at BD25++ and Ghabga at BD27++. Guests can also book private pergolas with butler service and shisha, priced at BD300++ for six people. La Med offers a wide selection of traditional Ramadan dishes including ouzi and dates at BD22++, from 6pm to 11pm. For more information, call 17 586-499.
Bushido Lounge Bushido’s special Ramadan event is among the trendiest in town. Bushido will be converted into a tent, designed for everyone to share the experience, where there will be a mix of traditional dishes and live cooking stations. It all starts at sunset and goes on till 12.30am. Price is BD16.5++ which includes water, buffet, Arabic beverage selection, Arabic coffee and tea. For more information, call 17 583-555.
Sheraton
Bahrain Diners can choose between the ambiance of a traditional Arabic tent at the Awali Ballroom or one of the restaurants within the hotel complex. Al Safir offers a sumptuous Ghabga from 9PM till 2AM priced at BD12++ per person. At Awali Ballroom, Iftar is priced at BD16++ on weekdays and BD17++ on weekends, from sunset to 8.30pm. For more information, call 17 533-533.
MĂśvenpick
Al Areen
Ritz Carlton
Four Seasons
Movenpick
www.womanthismonth.com
Choices
Juffair Sample the signature dishes served at Kolors, as well as a superb selection of traditional and international delicacies. Live cooking and carving stations add to the indulgence of a grand experience. The buffet is priced at BD9.9++ per person, children aged six and below dine for free and those aged seven to 12 years eat at half price. Each guest will be entered into a draw to win a two-night-stay at The K Hotel, with winners being announced at the end of the month. For more information, call 17 360-000.
Sheraton
K Hotel
ART Rotana
Amwaj Island Located in the elegant premises of the hotel, Choices is offering the finest spread of traditional and modern dishes for Iftar, priced at BD17++ from sunset to 8.30pm, and Ghabga at BD19++ from 9.15pm to midnight. The terrace of the restaurant transforms into a Ramadan tent with Arabic music, shisha, and multiple TV screens. Dine and enjoy the atmosphere for BD15++. For more information, call 16 000-111.
Crowne Plaza
Bahrain Celebrate the true spirit of giving this Ramadan with La Mosaique at Crowne Plaza. For every Iftar diner, a donation of 500 fils will be made to Children & Mothers Welfare Society. Iftar and Ghabga packages for groups start at BD14.5 net per person. For more information, call 17 531-122.
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showcase FITNESS FIRST JUFFAIR MALL
KEEPING FIT WHILE YOU FAST
Baffled about how to stay healthy during Ramadan? Fitness expert Luis Fialho gives tips on how to balance exercise and nutrition with introspection and fasting during the Holy Month.
Luis
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any of us are confronted with the struggle of exercising and eating properly during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Most people see it as a time when they will lose massive amounts of muscle mass, while others gain excessive body fat. Ramadan is a month when almost everyone ends up confused with the balance between muscle and fat that we have worked hard to build over the whole year. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Though it may be difficult to improve one’s fitness levels during Ramadan, one should at least try to maintain. During Ramadan, a healthy diet and a specific exercise plan are more important than ever. So the key is to eat smart and train smart.
mass during this period, you need to continue working out, but with a few practical changes. Aim for short workouts of around 30 minutes to an hour, focusing on different aspects to suit your goals; incorporate bike rides or brisk walks on cardio days or short bursts of highintensity activity. To get the best from your exercise, plan your workouts after Iftar or right after Suhoor, when your carbohydrate reserves are higher.
Working Out: Intensive training whilst fasting can be more detrimental than beneficial. Dehydration during this time increases the risk of injury and can inhibit performance and recovery. Also, the high muscle breakdown causes a spike in levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. But don’t use Ramadan as an excuse to not exercise. Whilst fasting, tweak your training routine by altering the number of sets and repetitions. If your goal is to preserve muscle
Nutrition: It is imperative for Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, to be rich in protein, carbohydrates, essential fats and plenty of water of course. Loading up on carbohydrates in the morning meal will increase your energy reserves and provide longer sustenance. Consider supplementing with a solid multivitamin in order to meet the daily minimum requirements of key-nutrients. Watch your sodium intake at this time; a high sodium level will create more dehydration and
June 2016
increase your thirst throughout the day. Some foods that you should include in your Suhoor are dates, bananas, fibrous vegetables that increase the feeling of fullness, oatmeal, chicken, eggs, natural peanut butter, honey, raisins and a protein shake. At Iftar, the key word is ‘hydration’! After long hours of fasting, hydrate yourself as much as you can during the entire evening. Around 2.5 litres of water spread over the evening hours should compensate for the long period without the ingestion of fluids. It’s very important to provide the body with some good quality protein to minimise the damage caused to muscle tissue while you are fasting. Having small meals in the evening will trick your body into speeding up metabolic rate, increase nutrient absorption and stabilise insulin and blood sugar levels. Fitness First wishes you Ramadan Kareem! Call: 17 467-044.
showcase AL AREEN PALACE AND SPA
THE ESSENCE OF ARABIAN MAJESTY Enjoy royal Arabian splendour this Ramadan at one of the island’s favourite venues.
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s the sun sets over the horizon, head to a property embellished with the luxurious ambience and warm hospitality that is the desert oasis of Al Areen Palace and Spa. The resort transforms its Nadwah ballroom into a dazzling space for the duration of the Holy Month, letting you indulge in a feast after the fast. The festivities will have an Arabic atrium setting, offering a medley of spaces for families, friends, corporate guests and VIPs. Live entertainment will be provided to mesmerise and enthrall the audience in the true spirit of Ramadan. It will also include a Bahraini corner where you can enjoy traditional Bahraini food and sweets along with a live cooking station. The entertainment will animate the atmosphere daily from 10pm onwards till the wee hours of the morning The Iftar buffet, which starts at sundown till 9pm daily, is priced at BD15++ on weekdays, and BD17++ on weekends. The Ghabga buffet is priced at BD16++ on weekdays and BD19++ on weekends. The price for both Iftar and Ghabga is inclusive of buffet, traditional Arabic desserts and Ramadan beverages. Children aged six and under dine for free and those aged six to 12 years eat at half price. Al Areen also caters to private events and offers a special rate for groups on request. For more information, contact: 17845000. www.womanthismonth.com
Tel: +973 17845000 www.alareenpalace.com
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showcase THE K HOTEL
CELEBRATE RAMADAN AT KOLORS Enjoy the Holy Month with a lavish Iftar served in an exceptional setting.
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he buffet at Kolors consists of signature dishes from the restaurant, as well as a superb selection of traditional and international delicacies. Live cooking and carving stations and an indulgent choice of desserts add to an awesome experience. Volker Mandlowsky, general manager of The K Hotel, says: “Be our guest this Ramadan and enjoy our unique Arabian hospitality with authentic local delicacies. Celebrate with your family and friends in Kolors and experience the true spirit of the Holy Month, while savouring our special Iftar buffet. We create the perfect atmosphere to
dine and relax long into the Ramadan nights.� The buffet is priced at BD9.9++ per person, inclusive of Ramadan beverages, while
Hacket London Evening
Luxury menswear brand, Hackett London, revealed its latest spring summer 2016 collection at the Capital Club.
Suhoor is also available with room service. Groups and corporates can take advantage of a special discount. Children aged six and below dine for free and those aged seven to 12 years eat at half the price. Each guest will be entered into a draw to win a two-night-stay at The K Hotel, with winners being announced at the end of the month. Whether private or corporate, the dedicated event team will create a unique and unforgettable experience. Call: 17 360-000 or visit: www.thekhotel.com
Steven & David
Kallan, Younis, Nataliia, Rana & Faris
Waleed Al Raees & Bayram
Infiniti Launch YK Almoayyed & Sons launched the new 2016 Infiniti QX50 at City Centre Bahrain.
Management and guests at the launch
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Faezah
www.womanthismonth.com
showcase ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL
RAMADAN AND FASTING
The Holy Month of Ramadan is just round the corner, so it’s important to understand the concept of fasting and how best to utilise it to improve one’s health.
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ore than a thousand years ago, Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said: “Do fast; you get better health”. Even in medical history, figures such as Hippocrates recommended fasting for a healthier body, while various religions incorporate fasting for spiritual cleansing. Recently, according to the Mayo Clinic and Harvard Science, fasting was found to be beneficial for heart health. It’s thought fasting causes our bodies to metabolise cholesterol and glucose more efficiently, with the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol decreasing and HDL (good) cholesterol increasing. Additionally, it has been shown that that fasting increases healthier blood cells. “Some of the illnesses of the
digestive system are food related, so once you give rest to your stomach, there’s more chance to increase the possibility of healing and improvement,” says Royal Bahrain Hospital’s consultant gastroenterologist Dr Mustafa Al Abdullah. “Irritable Bowel Syndrome, one of the most common diseases, has a very positive outcome during Ramadan, mainly if sufferers have good, balanced meals at Iftar and Suhoor”. However, it is important to eat the right foods to maximise the benefits: Try avoiding simple carbohydrates and all starchy, sugary foods including cookies, chocolates, ice creams, aerated drinks, etc.
Dr Mustafa Al Abdullah
Maintain a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins and fibres. A plate of salads, a small portion of rice/bread and a
bowl of chicken/meat/legumes (for vegetarians) is a must during Ramadan and for yearround health. Drink plenty of water; it washes away the excess nitrogen from the body found in protein-rich foods. But, avoid taking large quantities at a time, instead space it out over non-fasting hours to stay hydrated throughout the day. Add dairy products to your diet, especially yogurt, as they relax your digestive system, keep you satiated and make you less thirsty. Stay away from salty, spicy and fried foods, especially if you suffer from acid reflux, as they will lead to excessive thirst. Call 17 246-800 or visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com
department of gastroenterology
For Inquiries: 1724 6800 | Emergency: 1724 6888 www.womanthismonth.com
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FEATURE | health & fitness
In this synthetic world, where even medicine at times takes a commercial turn, these ancient Ayurvedic techniques are a refreshing change to achieving optimal health, finds Behnaz Sanjana.
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typical visit to the doctor starts with you listing out your symptoms head on: pain, uneasiness or feeling sick. A physical examination and a few questions later, there is a prescription, and you’re good to go. What if you were told that there are doctors who know what’s bothering you, without you telling them? No, they’re not magicians, but highly experienced and learned practitioners of the ancient science of Ayurveda who can figure out what’s awry just by feeling your pulse. The practice of diagnosing a patient’s ailments by studying their pulse is called Nadi Pareeksha - literally translating to ‘pulse test’. Dr Abhishek Kumar, medical officer in charge at the Sri Sri Ayurveda Clinic in Muscat is an expert at Nadi Pareeksha and regularly consults in Bahrain. He says: “Nadi Pareeksha can accurately diagnose both mental and physical imbalances, thus reaching the root causes of disease, and not merely addressing the symptoms. Generally, radial pulse is examined, just below the base of the thumb on the wrist.” He goes on to explain that Nadi Pareeksha helps to determine a person’s dominant
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doshas; the basic physical energies that are the primary and essential factors of the human body that govern our entire physical structure and function. Every physical characteristic, mental capacity and the emotional tendency is down to your
doshas – Vatta, Pitta and Kapha. The predisposition of a human being can therefore be explained in terms of the three doshas. An imbalance in the doshas leads to physical or mental ailments. The balance of the doshas in the body determines one’s Prakruti, that is one’s
constitution, or body type. Dr Abhishek describes Prakruti as our unique nature or the bio-type of the body. “It is our natural constitution - the qualities we were born with. The predominance of the five elements - space, air, fire, water and earth - and the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) at the time of conception, and during the time the mother carries the child in her womb then decides the natural constitution of that individual. Prakruti is formed from the subtle qualities of the five elements. Once this proportion is set, generally, it remains permanent throughout life.” Commenting on the purpose of Nadi Pareeksha, he says: “Knowing your own Prakruti gives a precise insight into what is good and bad for your body, so one can avoid imbalances by adopting an appropriate diet and suitable lifestyle.” Along with one’s Prakruti, Nadi Pareeksha can also assess the extent of Vikruti - the imbalance in one’s current constitution as against the original constitution one was born with. Detecting Vikruti is a forewarning of potential health risks, thereby nipping ailments in the bud. An effective Nadi Pareeksha session requires that the patient does not eat or drink for three hours beforehand. Our expert recommends that the best time for Nadi Pareeksha is early in the morning, on an www.womanthismonth.com
Gifts of the
Long-Gone
empty stomach. Once a trained practitioner checks and observes the pulse, he will discuss his observation with the patient and offer guidance on the diet and lifestyle changes required as per the inferred imbalance of the doshas. Herbal medicines and treatment may be needed to correct the doshas and further investigation may be prescribed to confirm the diagnosis, if required. But if you have no obvious health concerns, is Nadi Pareeksha worth your time? “Healthy individuals should get an assessment to be aware of their Prakruti. Also, any minor imbalance in the body can be corrected before it manifests as a disease,” answers Dr Abhishek. Another Ayurvedic technique he endorses for
Poetry Festival
optimal wellbeing is Marma Chikitsa. He explains: “In Ayurveda, Marmasthan or Marma means a special point through which Prana – the vital life force or energy – flows in the body. This is an ancient science dealing with body energies. Ayurvedic Marma therapists are aware of the energy chakras and all energy points which can be treated to unblock the channels of energies. This treatment involves gently touching the vital points of the body.” Marma is a Sanskrit word meaning hidden, or secret. By definition, a Marma point is a juncture on the body where two or more types of tissue meet, such as muscles, veins, ligaments, bones or joints. Yet, Marma points are much more than a casual connection of
tissue and fluids; they are intersections of the vital life force and Prana, or breath. Marma therapy, which originated in South India, has influenced the development of Chinese acupuncture and even Kung Fu. In ancient times, warriors understood subtle energy and they used their knowledge to disable or kill an opponent. Some Marma points, when attacked, simply hurt. Others, when injured, become life-threatening. In the way warriors had knowledge of these points for the purposes of defending a kingdom, it was the job of the physicians to use these same points to heal. “It has been identified that the human body has 107 Marma points. Gentle touch or light massage on these points balances the flow of Prana and gives total relaxation, relieving oneself of all stress,” says Dr Abhishek. One session of Marma lasts for 45-50 minutes and this treatment is very effective in reducing blood pressure, anxiety, neurosis, sleeplessness and migraine. The best part about it, is that there is no oil used and neither is there is a need to undress for a Marma session. That’s good news for those of us who are squeamish about traditional oil massages.
The Second Circle, poetry group of The Bahrain Writers’ Circle, held a poetry presentation event at Umami restaurant, Adliya.
Hameed
Vijay
Madhavi
Momen
Vijantee
Emad
Rohini The poets backstage
Jess & Glen
www.womanthismonth.com
Carol, Rosie & Bob
Ghazali & Mobeena
Grace & Durezza
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SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
City Centre Bahrain Movie Premiere
City Centre Bahrain held a movie screening of Angry Birds along with fun family activities and competitions.
Noor & Layla Orietta & Benjamin Chrishya & Poonam
Khalifa, Rayana, Heba & Duaij Collin & Archana
Ali, Hussain & Fatema
Dana & Gala
Mohammed & Ahmed
Pre-Ramadan Gathering
Pure Yoga Opening
The Domain Hotel and Spa held a pre-Ramadan gathering event at Le Sauvage.
Michelle & Christina
Ahmed
Fatema & Layla
Bayan
Pure Yoga held its official opening at its premises in Hamala.
Nawal, Nada & Sumaya
Abdulrahim Fakhro, Mohammed Kalaf & Ali
Mohammed & Ravinder
Frank & Deepa
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Rehan & Tasnim
Iana
Kim
Isa & Mohamed
www.womanthismonth.com
LIFESTYLE | parenting
Need to Know Dr Jinan Harith Darwish is a paediatric allergy specialist and clinical immunology fellow at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center. Each month she answers your parenting questions. I have recently been diagnosed with PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome. I’m trying to get pregnant. Is there anything you can suggest that would help? PCOS may sound like some sort of new computer system, but it actually has to do with babies, not bits and bytes. PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility. While this condition can make conceiving more challenging, women with PCOS deliver healthy babies every day. Here’s what you need to know to boost your odds of getting pregnant by inducing ovulation to have a healthy baby. Fertility medications are common options. Success rates for ovulation and pregnancy vary depending on the treatment: METFORMIN: Although this diabetes medication, which helps regulate the amount of insulin in your blood, isn’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating PCOS, research suggests that it and other diabetes medications may assist with fertility, so ask your doctor if it’s appropriate for you. CLOMIPHENE CITRATE: This medication stimulates ovulation and has been a standard infertility treatment for years, including in women with PCOS — nonetheless, it has a number of side effects, including hot flashes, mood swings and a high multiple-pregnancy rate compared to natural conception. GONADOTROPINS: These hormone shots cause ovulation, but substantially increase your risk of multiple births compared with clomiphene. LETROZOLE: Probably the most promising treatment for PCOS yet, this drug blocks oestrogen production and increases production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which makes ovulation happen. A recent study found letrozole results in a significantly higher rate of ovulation than clomiphene as well as a higher rate of live births (27.5 per cent versus 19.1 percent). Researchers also found it may also result in fewer twin pregnancies (3.9 per cent versus 6.9 per cent for clomiphene). OVARIAN DRILLING: A gynaecologist inserts a thin needle through the abdomen and destroys a small part of the ovaries to lower the androgens they produce. Research has found that after women undergo this procedure, approximately 80 per cent ovulate and 60 per cent conceive. www.womanthismonth.com
A 2014 study also found that eating just one teaspoon of cinnamon daily — a spice known to help regulate insulin levels — is a safe and Dr Jinan Darwish possibly effective way to normalise your cycles and boost your odds of conceiving, too. If none of these methods work for you, your doctor may suggest in-vitro fertilization (IVF), which often works best in women with PCOS. My young son will be starting school shortly and still sucks a pacifier. I’ve tried taking it off him but he becomes very distressed and then sticks his thumb in his mouth. I’m sure he’ll be teased at school and would really welcome some tips on weaning him off the dummy. Weaning from an attachment person or object should not mean the loss of a relationship, but a passage from one relationship to another. Anytime you wean your child from any attachment, know that you must always substitute an equally desirable one. Trade it in: First, propose the idea to your son. Then take him to the toy store and let him trade in his pacifier for a favourite toy. When you get to the toy store, share your plan with one of the salesmen, so he's part of the scheme. Let your
son pick out what he wants, and the salesman gives him the toy in exchange for the pacifier. This works because the child participates in the choice and gets something in return for what he feels he is giving up. Cut the tip off the pacifier: If you cut off the tip of the dummy nipple or poke a small hole in it, your child doesn’t get the same sucking sensation and might just abandon it. I’m a new mum, my baby girl is just three months, and I am tired all the time. I have a helper but my daughter cries as soon as I’m away from her and wakes several times during the night, even when she’s been fed. I’m exhausted and feeling such a failure, can you help? You need to take a deep breath and slow down. You need to start to see all you do accomplish in a day. All the smiles of encouragement, breast or bottle feeds, clothes changed. You're out of breath, racing and exhausted, but truly not failing. Failing means stopping. Not getting up, not trying, not giving. That’s not you. I want you to stop telling yourself you’re failing. Instead, I want you to replace it with 'I can do this'. You are a perfect mother for your daughter, that's why God blessed her with you. If you have a question for Dr Jinan, please email editor@redhousemarketing.com. June 2016
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Flower headband: F&F 17 162-120.
BHS
LIFESTYLE | parenting
Draped loose top: Centrepoint 38 819-328. Kitten comforter: M&Co 17 582-110.
KIDS’
PLAYGROUND
Polo shirt: Marks & Spencer 17 588-188.
It’s a pink world! From light shades to rich tones, this colour is a girly favourite to paint tutus and ballet shoes. Stylish boys also wear it in trendy polo shirts and summery shorts to create smart and casual looks.
Sweater: Mango 17 581-883. T-shirt: Tapealoeil 17 179-613. Baby socks: Mamas & Papas 17 581-877. Play house: Toys R Us 17 580-870.
Belted Oxford shorts: Next 17 581-681.
Girls’ shoes: TATI 17 217-470. Scarf: Okaidi Obaibi 17 178-049. Slip-ons: Lacoste 17 179-530.
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Trousers: Mothercare 17 179-738.
www.womanthismonth.com
LIFESTYLE | parenting
Whether it is recognising numbers or just fun games, we picked four interesting, free apps to entertain your little ones. Check them out! We chose some games that help kids to learn in an enjoyable way, from simple association to developing reading skills. Many grow with your child’s abilities and have solid parental controls and best of all? They are all free and available at your mobile store. We explored them to give you an insight of what to expect. SAGO MINI FRIENDS This game has simple and colourful characters, which helps your child associate with them. Five friends, a cat, a hamster, a dog, a bird and a bunny can be chosen to take a walk down the block to visit neighbours. Each house brings experiences that teach cause and effect, like watering a plant to see it grow or pressing on balloons to watch them inflate and fly away. The sounds produced by the animals and even the background music are soft and pleasant. Best enjoyed by toddlers.
ENDLESS NUMBERS Kids learn number recognition, sequences, quantity, numerical pattern and simple addition with this game. Interactive number puzzles reinforce basic numeracy skills with cute funky monsters entertaining the little ones while learning. Numbers come alive and a short animation provides context and meaning to each number. The downside is that only the five first numbers are free, however it is enough to see if your kid really enjoys it to then purchase the other ones.
READY JET GO! SPACE EXPLORER This free app has the intention of getting kids interested in the stars, constellations and other aspects of night time sky. They can explore the solar system and visit the planets with Jet and his friends. The most exciting part is the possibility to see real world positions of constellations and planets. Kids can also colour stars and constellations and learn about space fun facts. www.womanthismonth.com
READ ME STORIES: LEARN TO READ An app developed to help beginning readers to go through the reading process with confidence. The experience starts at their level with an assessment that must be answered by parents or teachers to tailor the books according to their current comprehension. The learning process occurs at their own pace and graduates evolve as they go. The app helps to learn ABCs, phonics and pronunciation. The read along which highlights the word that is being read is a plus.
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LIFESTYLE | home
Let there be light Stylish lighting sets the mood Light Shades, IKEA
Delicate Geometry Jazz up a dull corner to make it interesting Side Stand, Zara Homes
H&M
Victorian Vibe Bring home some vintage appeal Lantern, IKEA
Bold Gold Amp up your surfaces with pops of metallic Bowl, H&M Home
Glass glamour Pour beverages in style Decanter, Marina Homes Wall Adornment Dress white walls with cool black and metallic accents Wall Plate, H&M
See Though Show off your prized pieces with panache Glass Door Cabinet, IKEA
Glitterati Fresh foliage looks better with a little sparkle Vase, Zara Homes
Palmy Nights Bring the outdoors in Candle Stick, H&M Plush comfort Keep it dramatic with a duet of black and white Tassled cushion, H&M Cushion cover, IKEA
Snugg le Drape Up o Throw ver furnitu re to b , IKEA reak th
e mon
otony
Centre of attraction Marble and metallics make for a centre statement Coffee Table, Marina Homes
Take a Seat Dapper and so comfortable Sofa, IKEA
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Yin and Yang
As the festive season is on our heels, what better time than now to give your home a makeover? Like Yin and Yang, black and white come together to make a space complete. Let the magic of this monochromatic scheme transform your home into a space that is chic and on-trend, so you can relax, reflect and entertain in style. This playful colour combination makes a room, no matter how big or small, look sophisticated and elegant. Don’t forget to punctuate with metallic accessories to inject that all important wow factor.
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ccessorise an ebonyfinish dining table with the shimmer of silver and crystal for maximum effect. Table accessories, Tanagra
www.womanthismonth.com
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LIFESTYLE | travel
A Need for Speed
Over the years, races around the world have become synonymous with glitzy parties and stunning destinations, making them hotspots for the crème de la crème of society. With such high-flying allure, why limit your race experience to the small screen? WTM brings you three glamorous race destinations to consider for a pit stop this summer.
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www.womanthismonth.com
The other thing Daytona is justly famous for, make sure you take time for a visit.
Sample Central American-fusion cuisine in the charming eatery of Chucherias Hondurenas Restaurant.
Visit Daytona's flea market for bargains on vintage items and other cool stuff
a n o t Day
Daytona International Speedway, Florida: The warmth of a beachside paradise coupled with adrenaline thrills make this track an auto racing mecca. Since opening in 1959, it has regularly hosted the most prestigious NASCAR race - the Daytona 500. With multiple road layouts, the track is also home to races of USCC and Motocross throughout the year. Beyond the track, Daytona Beach is known for its nightlife, beachside restaurants, water sports, and cultural attractions such as the Museum of Arts and Sciences. Florida has a year-round love affair with the sun, which makes it a charming destination for those in need of an escape from bitter winds.
Dotted with charming boutiques and eateries, the Daytona riverfront a must-visit. www.womanthismonth.com
Retro and vintage-era exhibits are aplenty at the Daytona Museum of Arts and Sciences.
Check out the Tropical Manor, a brightly painted family run hotel.
At 175 feet in height, the Ponce de Leon is the tallest lighthouse in Florida and one of the tallest in the United States. June 2016
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LIFESTYLE | travel
The Goodwood Hotel is an 18th-century stone building known for its vast collection of fine art. Watch well-maintained vehicles of the past zipping past at the Goodwood Racetrack during the Festival of Speed.
Sight vintage vehicle demos, old buildings and exhibitions in a former chalk quarry at the Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre.
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Surrounded by lush grass lawns and flowers, the medieval castle of Arundel is a sight to behold.
d o o w d o Go
Goodwood Festival of Speed, England: The festival is an annual hill climb featuring motor racing cars and motorbikes at Goodwood House, culminating in the best of the past and present of motorsport. Located on the vast expanses of lush English countryside of West Sussex, the motor show has a distinctive theme it embraces each year, with this year being ‘Full Throttle - the Endless Pursuit of Power’. The event, which is to be run over June 23-26 this year, fosters a minimum of red tape so you can rub shoulders with famous faces of the motoring world while experiencing speed thrills of the best kind. After getting a good look at the supercars, bikes, and classic autos, experience the old-town charm of West Sussex with a stroll through the streets of nearby Chichester, or the fairytale-like Arundel Castle. The county also offers amusement parks, aquariums, and science centres.
Take to the watcher or just watch sail boats afloat at nearby Chichester.
The Tinwood Estate Vineyard produces sparkling wines consists of vineyards producing sparkling English vintages.
The chic interior of the tasting room at the Tinwood estate, where you can sample in-house sparkling grapes. www.womanthismonth.com
o c a n o M
The Jardin Exotique is a wonderland of different species of trees and blossoms
Splash out and enjoy dinner at La Montgolfiere Henri Geraci.
Monte Carlo, Monaco: One of the most prestigious yet challenging races in the F1 calendar, the one-ofa-kind circuit meanders through the streets of Monaco. From Casino Square through the tunnel and past the luxurious yachts, hedonism is revered, and celebrities are aplenty as Monte Carlo is considered a timeless playground of the see-andbe-seen crowd. Amidst the high-octane din, it is still possible to experience Monte Carlo’s slow-paced, elegant way of life.
The city at night fall.
Celebrities and models such as Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid frequent Monaco as a vacation spot and chances of bumping into the rich and famous are high!
The sculpture of a giant octopus at the Museum of Oceanography in Monaco is awe-inspiring and intimidating all at once.
The Monte Carlo Bay Resort has more than 10 acres of lush gardens overlooking the seafront. www.womanthismonth.com
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showcase MJ'S BOWLING LOUNGE
LEISURE MEETS GASTRONOMY MJ's strikes a balance between bowling alley and gourmet lounge.
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f you are looking for a fun night of activity coupled with the sophistication of a lounge, MJ's Bowling Lounge is the island's latest weekend hotspot. Located on Budaiya Highway, MJ's is already a hit among bowling enthusiasts as it offers an affordable, top-of-the-range gaming arena along with delectable gourmet Italian eats. A restaurant is planned for the venue along with a separate café, making it the ultimate spot for socialising the fun way. “Our aim is to use only the finest, high-quality ingredients sourced from Italy such as air dried beef bresaola, fior de latte mozzarella, singleorigin coffee from Costa Rica and fresh fruit for
Fitness First Birthday
our iced drinks and homemade shakes,” says Yara Salman, the owner of MJ's. Yara points out that she and her brother are
aware of the discerning tastes of their customers and hope their premium quality will set them apart from the rest. “MJ's will not simply be some dine-in place to eat and play, but a destination for stunning décor, amazing views and unforgettable culinary experiences,” Yara adds. The facilities at MJ's are supposed to be the first of their kind in Bahrain, featuring one of the most innovative sound and light systems that will give customers a feeling akin to being in Las Vegas, USA. The centre will also include a professional recording studio and some fine R&B beats from DJ Arvind. Call 77 557-777.
Fitness First celebrated its eighth birthday at the Bahrain World Trade Centre.
Leah & Vijeta
The Fitness First crew
Mariam
Aubrey, Anne & Shumi
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Jenny & Celeste
Jason & Vikas
Sumesh
www.womanthismonth.com
LIFESTYLE | food ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL
An Authentic Italian Experience
Puja Tiwari experiences a culinary journey of quintessential Italian delights in a trendy venue
I
f there is anything I would give an eye for, it’s probably authentic Italian fare. The love affair with this delectable cuisine is such that my stringent carb-free diet goes right out the window if I catch as much as a whiff of tossed pasta. Hence my excitement was on the rise as my dining companion and I headed for lunch to Oregano at the Atiram Premier Hotel. If there's a checklist for design elements that indicate a certain echelon of quality and modernity in a restaurant, Oregano’s designers ticked every box: sombre walls, stellar lighting, high ceilings and patterned carpets. On a corner behind glass walls is a wooden bar, where I witnessed a bartender busily experimenting for his next creation. The restaurant manager, Mr Arnold, explained that the clientele ranges from those on business dinners, to those on more intimate rendezvous. Traditional Italian dishes populate the menu: pizza, pasta, antipasti, grilled meats and risotto, to name a few. Unable to wait much longer, we placed the order for our entire meal all at once. The first dish, a prettily presented Caprese salad, came with a surprise twist of balsamic vinegar strewn on the buffalo mozzarella and tomato. Having always enjoyed anything with mushrooms, I ordered the Tagliatelle ai Funghi
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or mushroom pasta next, mainly because I was intrigued to sample a combination of mushrooms with truffle oil. In the past, I have tried various dishes with truffle and have found them to overpower and take away from the rest of the dish. But this result didn’t disappoint, and the amount of truffle oil was just right. I could savour and delicately differentiate the flavour of truffle from the mushroom. As per the suggestion of Mr Arnold, we opted for the Caterina Pizza, which came as a crispy, thin-crust goodness topped with pepperoni sausage, turkey ham, olives, mushrooms and onion. A definite winner! Although I’m a massive fan of risotto, I typically shy away from ordering it because of how filling it is. The description of the Risotti Ai Salmone or salmon risotto was tempting enough to bend the rules just this one time. The Arborio rice cooked
in a light pink sauce with succulent pieces of smoked salmon had a rich, creamy consistency and was surprisingly light. My dining companion especially enjoyed this because she is a seafood lover. Although our clothes felt a bit tighter than when we arrived, nothing could dampen our urge to try Italian desserts. As we waited, conversation flowed between me and my dining companion and I noticed how conducive the venue is to long chats and banter due to the spacing between each table. The tiramisu, hands down, was the best part of the meal. The mascarpone cheese was exquisite, with an almost fluffy consistency, and worth keeping some space for after the meal. The staff her are attentive and informative, never intruding on the dining experience. Dishes are priced affordably, and a delivery service is available if you want to order in. For more information, call: 17 100-018.
LIFESTYLE | food
CHEF’S SPECIAL Since it opened in 2014 this eatery has fast gained a stellar reputation to match its celebrity associations. Its talented head chef talks about his inspiration and shares a favourite recipe.
STEAK AU POIVRE Serves one
C
alifornia native Ben Small is the executive chef at CUT and CUT Lounge by Wolfgang Puck where his motto is “There are no problems, only solutions”. He’s been at CUT, at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, since 2014, having previously worked with celebrity chef Wolfgang at the iconic Spago Beverly Hills, the restaurant that started Puck’s journey to culinary superstardom, as well as at The Source in Washington DC. Chef Ben always knew cooking was his destiny. He says: “My interest in cooking started at a young age, maybe six or seven. I was standing on a stool with my Nonni making apple pie. That’s when I started being intrigued by food, and that passion has continued to grow as my knowledge of food has evolved.” Of the decision to make Bahrain his home, he explains: “The chance to be part of this fantastic project was what opened the door for me in Bahrain. One of the biggest benefits is immersing myself in a new culture and broadening myself professionally and personally. The ability to travel and see new places and interact with people from all over the world really excites me.” Of his success so far, chef Ben says: www.womanthismonth.com
“Consistently maintaining a high level of quality is the key to any culinary operation, and the quality of product the team is capable of putting together is aweinspiring.” He dedicates time to perfecting his skill, believing cooking is a personal journey, not just a professional career. “I love asking people about foods their parents or grandparents cooked while they were growing up, and what food invokes the memory of home or their childhood,” he explains. “Those are the dishes I want to learn how to make because I enjoy connecting with people on this level.” And describing his passion for the kitchen, he concludes: “It is an ever-changing field filled with vast possibilities and the ability to constantly learn and grow.”
Steak: - 150g fillet mignon (centre barrel cut, butterfly, tie) - 1 garlic clove, smashed - 1 thyme sprig - Butter as needed Method: Season the fillet with sea salt. Lightly oil one side then crust in coarsely cracked black pepper. Heat a sauté pan and add olive oil. When smoking, add the filet pepperside down. Cook until crust forms and then add butter and smashed garlic. Cook and baste in foaming butter, until just below desired internal temperature. Flip, remove and allow to rest in order for the juices to redistribute. Sauce: - 3g shallots, chopped fine - 2g garlic, chopped fine - 4g Dijon mustard, smooth - 7g green peppercorns in brine - 2ml apple cider vinegar or vinegar of your choice - 15g dried currants or raisins, soaked in warm water - 5ml heavy cream - Salt and black pepper to taste Method: In the same pan, sweat garlic and shallots. Add Dijon mustard and fresh butter and cook for 30 seconds. Deglaze pan with apple cider vinegar. Reduce liquid by half and add green peppercorns, brine and currants or raisins, then heavy cream. Reduce again; add resting juices, season with salt and pepper and garnish with remaining green peppercorns. June 2016
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horoscopes
Star
Gazing Raphael tells us what’s written in the stars this month
You’ve made great strides with a business deal this month and the outlook for the next few weeks is positive. However, you need to ensure all parties involved who have contributed to the overall success are given the recognition they deserve. If not you could have a mini-mutiny on your hands when it comes time to celebrate. Getting everyone on side might be difficult but if you can manage it this will make your month a lot simpler to get through.
Aquarius
Gemini
You have been living in a bit of a bubble of late and whilst that has kept you isolated from the real world, you have also lost touch with some of the more serious issues that impact your life. You need to re-focus and get yourself back on track otherwise you risk drifting too far away from where you really need to be right now. It could be a bit of a tough month but you have to just knuckle down and get on with it.
Financially, things are going to be tight for you at the start of the month and there is every indication you will be forced to look at alternative methods for income if you are to meet all of your commitments. There is certainly no way you can get through the remainder of the year on your current earnings so you will have to hit the ground running from June onwards and get some ideas in place if you are to keep your head above water.
Cancer
Pisces
If you are thinking about some home improvements or even a full renovation then make sure that firstly you have a plan. Do not try to do this without implementing a proper structure or it could all blow up in your lap! On a more positive note, you have an admirer and the person in question will reveal themself to you before the end of the month. And what a surprise it is going to be when it happens!
Leo
Business negotiations from the start of the year will show fruit in June and you can look forward to some positive developments that will ultimately deliver for you financially. Of course nothing comes easy and you are going to have to work hard for what you want but in real terms this could be the start of something significant and long term. You may also find a new but unexpected business partner from the whole experience.
Virgo
Underneath all the disguises and pretence you continue to wrestle with a dark secret from your past that you have shared with very few people in your life. However, now might be the time to talk about this and there could be someone most unexpected that you choose to confide in. Contrary to what you might have believed, this person is going to really help you come to terms with matters and there is every chance it will strengthen your personality.
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Capricorn
June 2016
Libra
Lady luck appears to have blessed you this month and if you fancy taking a gamble on a long shot anytime throughout June you could be handsomely rewarded. On the relationship front try to keep a partner’s interest in mind when making a major decision because there is an obvious detachment between you presently and this could develop into a more serious issue if not handled properly.
Scorpio
On the health front, a longstanding muscular injury is going to require treatment and you will be forced to seek medical advice. Try not to delay any appointments, as this is one issue you won’t be able to dodge. I know you don’t like to put yourself at the mercy of the medical profession but in reality no one is superhuman and all of us need to trust in the experience of others some times. Your sign is no different.
Sagittarius
True romance makes an appearance in your life this June and it is likely to change your perspective for the month or even the year. In fact it may come as such a surprise that you could be lost for words initially since the person who has amorous intentions towards you is not someone you would have expected to take an interest. Still, once the emotions are out in the open, there is no sense in holding back!
Family driven as you are, this month will be all about getting things at home in order and there will be a few issues that need your careful attention, not least the situation between two siblings for those of you with kids still living under your roof. Competition between children is always something parents have to consider but the problem could have been fostered by a failing in your own parenting skills, so think about fixing this.
Aries
Those of you with children need to consider how to better organise your time this month because at the moment you are allowing overdemanding teenagers to dictate your agenda and this is affecting other relationships in your life. You need to take control of your existence and ignore the manipulations put before you. You have a right to enjoy yourself too and there comes a time when even children need to be accountable for their actions.
Taurus
Earth signs are always determined and tenacious, if a little stubborn. However, it does mean that you have the capabilities to see your way across the finish line when others may have faded and you should draw on this ability for June as you set yourself targets for the remainder of the year. What you need to be careful of is someone snaking in and stealing your thunder in the work place ,so be ruthless to ensure the success continues. www.womanthismonth.com
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
Around Town
The British School of Bahrain celebrated the Queen’s 90th Birthday at its campus in Hamala.
Ramee Rose Hotel opened its newest restaurant, Time Café.
The New India Assurance Co Ltd opened its 4th branch in Busaiteen.
Cavalli Café held a grand opening ceremony at its new premises in Al Aali Shopping Complex, Seef district.
Comic Book Launch Anne Thackray launched her comic book, The Chronicles of Shamal, at an exclusive event at Al Riwaq Art Space.
Anna Thackray
Maheen, Craig, Anna, Sari, Essa & Anna
Farheen
Ammar’s Birthday Party Ammar celebrated his eighth birthday party at McDonald’s, Tubli. Ammar cutting the cake
Ammar and friends
www.womanthismonth.com
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last word
In Her Shoes Since our theme this month is Women on Wheels, we put a few pointed questioned to Basma Mohammed, marketing manager for BMW and MINI.
Who would be your three perfect dinner guests (living or dead)? Iron man, Cristiano Ronaldo, and the crew of Friends.
What’s your favourite car? BMW M2.
Three words to describe you? Extrovert, organised and optimistic. Early bird or night owl? Definitely a night owl! I love my sleep.
Basma Mohammed
Beauty product you can’t live without? Lipstick.
Last item you splurged on? A mini handbag from GUESS. 80
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What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? Go to a haunted house in Bahrain.
Dream holiday destination? Maldives. Honestly anywhere with a beautiful beach!
Something about you most people don’t know? I LOVE Mexican food. I ould have it every day. www.womanthismonth.com