Sabaya Magazine December 2014 by Sabaya Magazine

Fashion, lifestyle and beyond

Issue 77 - DECEMBER 2014

Racer Prodigy Former F1 racer Mark Webber

Work and Play Sheraton Bahrain

Magic of Southeast Asia Wok at the Sofitel Thalassa Bahrain Sea and Spa

Epitome of Luxury Porsche Cayenne S

Festive season special Christmas and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve happenings around the island

DECEMBER 2014

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2014

12 CELEBRITY TIDBITS All the latest gossip straight from Hollywood.

18 A CLASS APART Former F1 racer Mark Webber

20 ART-SPECT Peter Rushton

22 GLITZ AND GLAM

Star Factor: ASK breaks down who wears what, fashion police style

26 FESTIVE SPECIAL

What’s happening for Christmas and New Year around hotels in Bahrain

38 FASHION STATEMENT Alice & Olivia, Saks Fifth Avenue

40 GIFT IDEAS Gits for him and her

42 WIN!

A hair and beauty makeover + check out last month’s winner

44 BEAUTY QUOTIENT Bourjois

60 OUT AND ABOUT

Check out all the events which took place last month

82 PRESS RELEASES Press releases from around the region.

88 LAST NOTE

Celebrate National Day like a local!

DECEMBER 2014

REVIEWS 46 GLOBE-TROTTER Charming Chile

50 TECHNO REVIEW

Techno Logic – Latest gadgets and what you will love about them

52 AUTO REVIEW Posche Cayenne S

54 HOTEL REVIEW Sheraton Bahrain

58 RESTAURANT REVIEW Wok at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

42 DECEMBER 2014

CEO Letter

Cheers, Bahrain! Patriotism is the lifeblood of a country. It is my honour to extend my hearty congratulations to the leadership on account of their 42nd National Day. What a glorious Kingdom it is!

We have embraced the festive season in full swing, and provide our

readers with a festive listing for Christmas and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve as well as gift ideas for Christmas. We have also interviewed celebrated artist Peter Rushton about his masterpieces and celebrated racer Mark Webber.

We have reviewed the Posche Cayenne S, Sheraton Bahrain and Southeast

Asian restaurant from Wok.

As usual, we keep you up to date with runway trends, celebrity gossip

and much more.

Cheers! Warmest regards,

Mamdouh Shehata

CEO - Sabaya Magazine

mamdouh.shehata@sabayamag.com

DECEMBER 2014

From The Editor’s Desk

Let the festivities begin

CEO Mamdouh Shehata Deputy CEO Samia Al Mahmood PR & Editorial Manager Omaima Ebrahim Editor Puja Tiwari Business Development Director Rami Khalil

his issue is drenched in all things sparkly with

Art Director Syed Muhammed Raihan

December is inevitably packed with holiday

Photographer Santhosh

sessions. Does it feel like this year whizzed past a

Proof Reader Fayez Abubacker

the onset of the festive season. The month of parties, shopping trips and marathon wrapping

little too soon, or is it just me?

I would like to extend hearty felicitations to the leadership on

the occasion of the 42nd National Day. Check out the last page for a little insight about what to do on this day.

In this issue, we have compiled a festive supplement with

all the Christmas brunches and dinners as well as New Year parties around the island.

Sabaya got an in-depth interview with Former F1 prodigy

Mark Webber during his visit to Bahrain for the FIA 6 hours WEC. Flip over to ‘A Class Apart’ to find out more.

Spot yourself in our event pages and enjoy the best fashion

Legal Consultant Younis Zakaria Younis Printed by Arabian Press Distribution Al Ayam Published by Sabaya Company for printing & Publishing ISSN 1985 – 8353 Chairman Abdul Samad Al Nashaba

picks of the season.

Sabaya is a monthly publication

PUJA TIWARI Editor puja@sabayamag.com

DECEMBER 2014

Tel: +973 77100022 Fax: +973 77100021 www.sabayamag.com Email: info@sabayamag.com Facebook: SabayaMagazine Twitter: SabayaMag

DECEMBER 2014

TIDBITS

Celebrity TIDBITS

CELEBRITY

Natalie Dormer’s sister to deliver her future baby

Actress Natalie Dormer has said that while she isn’t currently expecting a child, she is looking forward to the day she gives birth because she wants her sister, Samantha Dormer to welcome her newborn into the world. “My sister just began a three-year midwifery course, and the idea of her helping me to deliver a baby at the end of it is a really lovely one,” the New York Post quoted Dormer as saying. The 32-year-old, who has been dating director Anthony Byrne for seven years, is currently starring alongside Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 and says she is in awe of 24-year-old actress.

Mark Wahlberg’s lips ‘turned blue’ after shedding 60 pounds

Actor Mark Wahlberg says his lips turned blue after he dramatically lost 60 pounds for his role in ‘The Gambler.’ The 43-year-old actor, who lost weight for his role as Jim Bennett, plays a high-stakes gambler who has a run in with a gangster loan shark in the film, reported Us magazine. “I went from 197 to - the lightest I’d ever been in a movie was in Boogie Nights, I was 138 - so I wanted to beat that. I beat it by a pound, so 137. I was losing weight while we were shooting the movie too, so continuity kind of went out of the window.

DECEMBER 2014

Josh Hutcherson curious to try human flesh

Actor Josh Hutcherson says he is keen to taste human flesh. The Hunger Games star admits he is “curious” to see how human meat tastes and he would happily sample a mouthful if it was not taboo, reports contactmusic.com. “I don’t want somebody to die for me to eat them. However, if someone happened to die, from natural causes and it was not so taboo... I’m curious. I want to know what it tastes like. Like you want to know what a pigeon tastes like, you know, except a human. They’re all animals,” he said.

Celebrity TIDBITS

Marilyn Monroe’s lost love letters up for auction

The auction for 300 letters belonging to the iconic actress would take place on December 5-6 in Beverly Hills, reported Ace Showbiz. An auction for the memorabilia in ‘Marilyn Monroe›s Lost Archives’, held by Julian’s Auctions, comprises of some heartfelt letters from the actress’ former husband Joe DiMaggio. The letters were sent amid their separation in 1954. “I love you and want to be with you. There is nothing I would like better than to restore your confidence in me,” he told her in one letter. The baseball player also expressed his feelings when Monroe announced their split on TV. “My heart split even wider seeing you cry in front of all these people,” he said. Monroe talked about her insecurities in a letter addressed to her husband, playwright Arthur Miller. Letters from Clark Gable, Cary Grant and Jane Russell are also included in the collection.

Anna Kendrick admits being drunk in an interview

Actress Anna Kendrick says she was drunk while giving an interview to a magazine recently. The “Pitch Perfect” star took to micro-blogging site Twitter Monday, to confess that she was intoxicated while she answered personal questions for the magazine, reports contactmusic.com. The 29-year-old posted a picture of her cover for the monthly publication and captioned it: “Marie Claire got me drunk for my interview #true #DidntFightIt.” During the interview, Kendrick opened up about her struggle with online trolls attacking her appearance and insisted she doesn’t let the comments bother her as she got used to them in high school.

Macaulay Culkin pokes fun at death hoax on Instagram

‘Home Alone’ star Macaulay Culkin poked fun at internet hoaxsters and social-media sites that had proclaimed him dead by humorously demonstrating he was still alive. The 34-year-old actor took to his band’s social media page and shared some funny photos of him to dispel rumours of his death, reported Ace Showbiz. One photo uploaded on his band’s Twitter page The Pizza Underground shows him smiling while holding a bottle of soda. “We’re on tour you silly people,” the caption read. Another photo uploaded by the band shows Culkin playing dead in his bandmate’s arms. False story about Culkin’s death emerged via screengrab of what appeared to be a cable news broadcast. DECEMBER 2014

Celebrity TIDBITS

Sophia Loren was under pressure to fix her ‘long nose’ Renowned actress Sophia Loren says she was under pressure to have plastic surgery to fix her “long nose”. The 80-year-old “Two Women” actress has revealed that movie executives would tell her to fix certain parts of her face to make her more attractive on film, reports contactmusic.com. “I always tried not to listen to these people.They were saying that my nose was too long and my mouth was too big. It didn’t hurt me at all because when I believe in something, it’s like war. It’s a battle,” she said. Loren even admitted that at the time her film producer husband Carlo Ponti, who passed away in January 2007, also encouraged her to go under the knife.

Hugh Jackman bleeds onstage

Actor Hugh Jackman accidentally injured his finger with a knife while cutting a lemon onstage and bled for an hour during a preview performance of his Broadway show ‘The River.’ The 46-year-old’s representative confirmed that he did injure himself on Wednesday and the wound continued to bleed for an hour. In spite of this, Jackman finished his performance. The actor was later checked by medics but didn’t need stitches, reports eonline.com. After the show, he signed autographs for his fans outside the theater. 14

DECEMBER 2014

I still get scared before hitting the runway: Naomi Campbell

After nearly 30 years in the fashion industry, supermodel Naomi Campbell has revealed that she still gets cold feet while hitting the runway. The 44-year-old beauty said she is basically scared of wardrobe malfunction, reported the Huffington Post.“I still get scared. I cross myself before I go onto the runway. I pray my dress isn’t going to fall off,” she said. Campbell, who has had a few mishaps on (and off) the catwalk, but she still maintains her iconic status and tries to overcome her fear. “If you feel fear, fear will come to you. Fear is a terrible thing to have and I’ve been aware of that since I was a kid. It can stop you doing things in your life. I don’t want fear to get hold of me,” she added.

DECEMBER SEPTEMBER 20142014

15 15

Celebrity TIDBITS

Amanda Bynes threatens to Jim Carrey leaves female fan bald kill her parents

According to TMZ, which obtained the disturbing audio tapes, Bynes, 28, was recorded by her former roommate during a car ride. “If your father was my father... You would understand why you’d want to slit his wrists. I want to literally, like, lead him into a ditch, and I haven’t decided how I’d want to murder him... He literally like is the worst person... Nothing would give me greater pleasure than slitting his throat. That’s what I would love,” she said. The former Nickelodeon star, however, added, “I’m not gonna like ever do such a thing, but like I call my mom and like I threaten to kill her, and I threaten to slit her wrist, and I threaten to like burn down her house and like I said a bunch of things like that.” Bynes’ parents were awarded a temporary conservatorship over the actress after her erratic behaviour spiralled out of control following her DUI arrest earlier this year.

Actor Jim Carrey shaved a woman’s head instead of his “Dumb And Dumber” character’s signature bowl cut during an appearance on TV show “Jimmy Kimmel Live. The actor was there to promote sequel “Dumb And Dumber To. ”The woman named Deanna seemed clueless to how far the comedian was going to go with the haircut as she looked shocked with how much he actually snipped off during his first go with the scissors. He threw up his fan’s long blonde locks in the air before frantically chopping off even more of her hair as Deanna asked: “Where is the bowl? I feel more comfortable with a bowl.” The show cut away from Carrey for commercial break as he worked on the fan›s hair only to return minutes later with her blonde locks almost shaved completely off with a few patches up top.

Tom Cruise puts ranch on sale at 37 million pounds

DECEMBER 2014

Hollywood star Tom Cruise has put his luxury American ranch on sale for 37 million pounds. The detached house boasts seven bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a library, direct access to tens of thousands of acres of National Forest, reported Daily Express. The 52-year-old actor, who owns properties across the States, had designed the native stone and cedar ranch himself. Cruise and his former wife Katie Holmes famously hosted a Vanity Fair photoshoot at the luxurious property in 2006 to introduce their daughter Suri to the world.

DECEMBER 2014

A Class Apart

Driving the road to success Legendary racer Mark Webber Compiled by Sundaram Ramaswami

DECEMBER 2014

A Class Apart make a decision since I still wanted to race. The next best category was the endurance racing, which is really enjoyable and has the best, sexiest cars on the track. So I think that’s what they’re attracted to, they know that it has an exciting element to it. Monaco is considered to be one of the most difficult tracks on the calendar, but you seemed at ease there with 2 wins and 2 podiums. Is there any track that really tested your mettle and pushed you to the limit? I think Singapore was a very hard race, it was challenging both mentally and physically. Suzuka as well, probably one of the toughest tracks in the world.

elebrated former Formula 1 racer Mark Webber has traded the F1 for endurance racing and visited Bahrain while participating in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) for Porsche. He is racing for Porsche’s new LMP1 sports prototype at the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the sports car World Endurance Championship (WEC). He recounts his career move to WEC, what he likes and dislikes about Bahrain’s track and his most memorable F1 racing moments in an exclusive interview with Sabaya magazine’s Puja Tiwari. You’ve raced on two tracks in the Middle East – Yas Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi and this one in Bahrain. How do you find racing in the Middle East? The weather is always sensational and I don’t think I’ve driven during a rainy spell in this region. A few sandstorms and that’s it. Abu Dhabi’s track is by the waterfront whereas the one in Bahrain is in the desert so it’s quite a contrast. The enthusiasm for racing is growing in the region, people love fast and exotic cars. It’s good to see the passion growing in Bahrain.

How has the transition from F1 to EC been and how is the season panning out for you? It’s going pretty well so far, and I think Porsche is completely on target. We’ve managed to get few podiums and beaten Audi a few times, which we are very proud of. Toyota is the next target, albeit steep but we are learning every step of the journey. The plan is to come next year with the absolute maximum, because the opposition can also have fundamental ideas. You’ve got quite an interesting garage with several exotic cars, but we hear you have a special liking for Porsches as you already own a couple of them. Did it feel like coming back home when Porsche offered you a seat in the Endurance Championship? It was a very good marriage, because I’m a Porsche customer and when I signed for Porsche, I already owned a few Porsches and now, I have a company car. I drive a 911 Turbo and I’m proud of the brand. I even had posters of the car when I was a young boy so

this is definitely a great achievement for me. Who has been your hero and major influence in F1? My father has played a big role in my life. Both my parents played an imperative role in the way I grew up and my father was my strong supporter. A lot has changed since you retired from the F1. What do you think about the upcoming season? I think it’s a bit confusing for the people at home because of all the rules and regulations. It’s not easy for the fans to follow either. However, I don’t think it’ll change anything. We’ve a few numbers with us. Apart from Schumacher & Barrichello, no other duo has won the Constructors title more than twice. You and Sebastian did it four times with Red Bull. What did those 4 dominant years feel like? We had a lot of focus on ourselves, constantly driven to improve our performance and not worry too much about the opposition. Even while winning, we found ways to improve and that is what made us successful. You haven’t found much success in Bahrain and Australia, your home circuit. Your take on these two tracks? I must admit that it doesn’t have a lot character, and although I enjoy driving on it, it’s not been among my luckier ones in Formula 1. I’ve had 44 podiums around the world, but not even one here. I mean, this isn’t Suzuka but there are other tracks that are a lot worse, like the one in Queensland, Australia, which is absolutely horrendous. I think I just didn’t know what to do with the setup here. Despite that, I really enjoy the weather here.

There are speculations of more F1 racers looking to join the WEC soon. What do you think is attracting them? I think they’re getting a bit frustrated with Formula 1. Some of these guys are at the end of their career as well like I was and I had to DECEMBER 2014

Art-Spect

Peter working on one of his pieces

Artistic passion Peter Rushton

DECEMBER 2014

Art-Spect

ifted Bahrain-based artist Peter Rushton lives through the notion of creativity. He is also exploring the relationship between art and healing as he uses his brush to recover from a stroke he suffered a few months ago. Having studied industrial and fine art at Swansea University, Peter has a successful business career. He recently exhibited his work themed “The Rhythm of Life” at Bahrain World trade Centre and has had exhibitions in many countries over the years. Peter narrates his passion for art, what he wishes to portray through it and his influences in a candid chat with Sabaya magazine. What is art for you? Please tell me a little about your style. I don’t set out to produce art about one subject or another. I’m never without a creative thought as I am constantly being inspired by what is around me and sometimes the thoughts are left in my mind and other times they develop into more indepth ideas and detailed images. I didn’t set out to be a contemporary artist or to create artwork relating to social commentary but over the years, as my portfolio styles naturally developed from a photographic illustrative style to looser acrylics and people started to review my work at international exhibitions, the descriptions started to emerge and I began

to notice a pattern I hadn’t intended but am now pleased with. What does your work revolve around? My work tends to focus on the bigger environment, the relationships between man and woman, their natural recourse, the development of bigger and bigger cities, more and more people, noise, beauty and the consequences this has on nature. At school in Swansea, my passion was to be creative and I think my obsession with depicting life’s beauty started there. During my years in London where I exhibited and also became a critic at private shows, the exposure to various subject matters and styles of art has played a significant influence in my creative approach today. Some of my art is about the strategy of form and colour that represents human nature. And since I’ve always been a fan of abstract art - a new strand of work seems

to have emerged depicting a very ‘simplistic’ side to a complex life. I’ve never liked to explain a certain piece of work - if you’ve made a picture and that’s how you wanted it to be hopefully it can speak for itself and whatever it says to the viewer - it’s the right message because there isn’t a wrong and a right message. Each person takes something a little different from the same picture and I’m happy with that. What inspires you? My influences are first and foremost everything I see, feel and experience, but I’ve always loved the unexpected. I love the rhythm of life and how it can be represented. The artist I most admire is Salvador Dali. For me, he was a genius before his time in conceptual thinking and technique. I grew up wanting to express art in various ways, allowing the subject matter dictate which technique I adopt. DECEMBER 2014

Glitz & Glam

Star Factor Photo credits: Waleed Alshayji and Mohammed Hejres Location: Galleria Sophia

Our celeb fashion police, Ashwathy Shyam Kumar is a true blue fashionista. Multi talented, she is a fashion designer, buyer for a leading apparel brand in the Kingdom, stylist and diva. her fashion blog, www.thestylecounciltaash.blogspot.com is becoming one of the most popular fashion blogs in the region. ASK picks the best and the worst of what our fashion celebs have been wearing.

Elizabeth Banks

Putting her best foot forward, as always, the fashion star of this promo tour was on fire once again wearing a Saint Laurent cowl-neck open-back red gown with a side slit which may not have the magic of her first look, but still packs a mighty punch with minimal effort. Our golden girl styled her look with gold accessories including a Lee Savage â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Infinite Spaceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; clutch, Giuseppe Zanotti sandals and Jennifer Fisher earrings, with a sweeping updo and red lippie rounding out this stunning look. Those who thought she overdressed for the world premiere will no doubt prefer this look. Me? I love them equally. Both fit for each occasion.

DECEMBER 2014

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah dazzled on the red carpet wearing a blush-hued Badgley Mischka Pre-Fall 2014 mermaid gown enhanced with decorative gold and silver embellishments. I just love how her gown reflects seasonal opulence. She totally nailed the look, bringing plenty of glamour to her role as hostess.

Glitz & Glam

Hilary Swank

The actress wore another Couture look, this time from Elie Saab’s Fall 2014 collection. Hilary styled her long-sleeved jacquard ombre flared frock with gold accessories, adding ruby jewels to complement the red sequin embellishments on her dress. The dress exudes feminine chic and is classic in design, yet it doesn’t have me screaming BDOTW-worthy

Oilvia Wilde

The beautiful actress, who was supporting hubby Jason Sudeikis, wore a gorgeous black asymmetrical Michael Kors Resort 2015 dress. Crafted with a fluid floor-length design, with a sleek silhouette, sparkling embellishments and cut-out detailing this is the ultimate in after-dark elegance. Glossy waves, a Michael Kors python ‘Leyla’ clutch and black Stuart Weitzma ‘Nudist’ sandals completed her look.

DECEMBER 2014

Glitz & Glam

Felicity Jones

The British actress wore black – again – this time wearing an Alexander McQueen Resort 2015 featuring a beautifully embellished bodice and a flowing sheer skirt which offers a tantalising glimpse of what lies beneath. While Felicity looks as beautiful and elegant as ever, however, I’m getting to a point where I want to see something a little bit different from her.

Jennifer Aniston

I was pleasantly surprised by this ivory corsage zip-up top and gabardine peplum belt from the Bouchra Jarrar Spring 2015 collection styled with a calf-length black pencil skirt. Signature Rachel tresses teased by her longtime stylist, Chris McMillan, black pumps and a selection of rings courtesy of Jennifer Meyer and Irene Neuwirth rounded out this more interesting than usual look.

DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the season to be merry!

DECEMBER 2014

he last quarter of the year is perhaps the most awaited time for Bahrain. The festivities in Bahrain begin by December 1st with Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in top hotels, discounts at the malls, National Day celebrations, Christmas buffet promotions for the whole family and huge New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve parties almost everywhere on the island. It is the time of joy and laughter, to bid farewell to a great year and look forward to new beginnings while embracing it with family and friends. Sabaya has compiled a list of all the festive promotions offered by various hotels and establishments in Bahrain. Stay informed on Christmas Eve lunch and dinner, Christmas lunch and dinner, Christmas tree lightings as well as New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve bashes all around town to make this a celebration to remember! DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s new General Manager Gilles Nicolas rounds up the hotel’s festive season while giving us an insight into his career and his time in Bahrain so far. Please tell me a little about yourself.

I’m originally from France but have been travelling for the last 16 years. This gave

me the opportunity to gain experience in

Europe, North America and in the Middle East for the last 6 years. I do enjoy the

quality of life offered in this part of the world.

I have been with IHG for the last 10

years which provided me the opportunity

to work with great people and achieve my

DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special career goals.

on Christmas day with our Christmas day

for 12 years and have two daughters aged

brunch on 26th December at 3 great venues

From a personal view, I’ve been married

14yrs and 11yrs. I try to spend as much

lunch on 25th December and our Christmas

is truly a feast for the senses during the festive season.

of your choice, La Mosaique, Harvesters

Christmas Lunch

our traditional Christmas lunch special

one of the most popular spots on Christmas

How are you finding Bahrain so far?

and perfectly roasted carved meats with

and our Christmas brunch the following

heritage, Bahrain is truly a unique place

gourmet salads and condiments. Savor

spans many centuries. It has a great mix of

seafood and indulge in a spectacular

great feel of the Arabic culture.

pudding to fresh waffles and crepes. Priced

time as I can with my family and enjoy

running. I did my first half marathon in Doha last year.

Bar & Terrace and Cappuccino’s. Tuck into

Make the most of this joyous season with

with an extensive range of specialty dishes

day with our Christmas day lunch buffet

An island rich in history, culture and

all the trimmings, live cooking stations,

in the region with an ancient culture that

the spectacular buffet with endless fresh

a modern and cosmopolitan vibe but with a

assortment of desserts from traditional

So far my experience in Bahrain has

been very pleasant. The hotel team has

been very welcoming and helped me to

settle down. My family is also very happy with their new environment.

at only BD 35 net inclusive of selected

beverages, it makes this season’s dining experience a really special one.

The kids are in for a treat with a

special kid’s corner serving their very

day at 3 great venues of your choice, La Mosaique, Harvesters Bar & Terrace and Cappuccino’s. Savor the spectacular buffet with endless fresh seafood and tuck into our traditional Christmas lunch special with an extensive range of specialty dishes and perfectly roasted carved meats with all the trimmings, live cooking stations, gourmet salads and condiments.

What promotions do the hotel have lined

own Christmas buffet and watch your

Priced at BD 29++ inclusive of selected

We have great things lined up for the

visit from Santa giving away Christmas

the ages of 3 – 10years.

with our Christmas tree lighting where a

guests, promising an experience that is

up for the festive season?

little one’s eyes light up as they receive a

festive season; we get off to a great start

goodie surprises to all our young

special tree created by the Crowne Plaza

unforgettable.

with carol singers and hot beverages for the

to traditionally host the biggest New Year’s

family will be lit on the 4th of December

Last but not the least, we are very proud

guests who arrive for the evening.

Eve Gala event on the island and we are

is going to be bigger and better this year

this year – “A Caribbean Carnival 2014”. A

perfect magical spot to enjoy and indulge in

is in store for our guests, which includes a

chestnuts, taste of warm mince pies,

live music, DJ & entertainment, an exquisite

décor all combined to create a truly special

will be a night not to be missed!

warm mulled beverage as you sing along

guests for Christmas and New Year Eve as

The much awaited ginger bread house

back again with another spectacular theme

transforming our Cappuccino’s café into a

memorable evening with great excitement

the seasonal surprises. The smell of roasting

traditional steel band from the UK’s best

sounds of Christmas carols and beautiful

Gala dinner and much more……I’m sure it

Christmas ambience. Sip hot chocolate or

I am looking forward to welcoming our

with our carolers adding to the festive air.

Finding the perfect place to eat out over

Christmas or New Year period can often be a bit of a headache, especially if you

are booking for a family celebration. We at

Crowne Plaza offer that ‘home from home’ traditional Christmas – hassle and stress

free – to give you that extra time to spend with your special loved ones. Make this

year even more magical with our two day celebration! Make the most of this joyous

season with one of the most popular spots

well as a great business year in 2015.

EVENTS

Christmas lighting – 4th December, 6.30pm

Like many of us, if you have been waiting for Christmas too, you are in for a festive

treat at Crowne Plaza Bahrain. Start your

beverages and BD15++ for kids between The kids are in for a treat with a

special kid’s corner serving their very

own Christmas buffet and watch your

little one’s eyes light up as they receive a visit from Santa giving away Christmas goodie surprises to all our young

guests, promising an experience that is unforgettable.

New Years Eve Ball

Start the New Year with a big bang and say hello to another one of Crowne Plaza’s ‘A Caribbean Carnival 2014’ themed ball.

A memorable evening is in store for the guests starting the evening off with an

exquisite gala dinner with free flowing

beverages and plenty of entertainment. All of this for just BD 70 net per person. If you want to take your celebration late in

to the wee hours of the morning we have a great room package specially designed for you at BD215 net double occupancy inclusive of the ticket to “A Caribbean

Carnival 2014”, a room night and breakfast on New Year’s Day.

celebrations early this year by joining us at

For more information, please call 17531122.

the lighting up of our Christmas tree which

Bahrain.

our lobby on 4th of December at 6.30pm for

Tickets are available at the Crowne Plaza

DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special

Festivities at the Westin

Candid chat with Klaus Niefer

Complex General Manager, The Westin Bahrain City Centre and Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre

Please tell me a little about yourself? I grew up in my parent’s hotel in Stuttgart, Germany, so I can say I was born into hospitality. All my family are working either in hotels or for Mercedes Benz in Stuttgart, and I decided to follow the hospitality path. I enjoyed the varied aspects of the industry from a very young age but food was my first passion, hence I started my career in culinary and I’m actually a fully qualified chef.I started as an apprentice, following which I studied hospitality management. Although I haven’t worked in a hotel kitchen for many, many years I still love to cook for my family and friends. I began my working life in Germany but have worked the biggest part of my life in the Asia Pacific, 30

DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special namely Australia, China and the Philippines.More recently I worked in Abu Dhabi for both The Westin and Le Méridien brands, latest one being The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa. In Australia I met my lovely wife Rita, an Australian of Italian descent. She complements my German character and we have two wonderful children, Marco, 20 and Daniel, 18. Marco is studying design at Central Saint Martins, University of Arts London; and Daniel is on his final year of high school in Abu Dhabi. My wife Rita is with Daniel in Abu Dhabi at the moment but will be moving to Bahrain next June, which I am very much looking forward to. How are you finding Bahrain so far? I’m pleased to be here. The kingdom is known as welcoming and friendly, both locals and expats alike, and my experience so far has been delightful. Bahrain is small in size comparing to some of the neighbours but it’s very rich in culture, heritage and history. Due to the sociable nature of the society in Bahrain, in my still short time here I have already made some friends and I look forward to making even more new friends and getting more involved with the local community.

Festive Season at The Westin

This December enjoy a reinvigorating body

Share the Spirit of Giving with Cookie Decorating for Charity This winter, visit Westin’s cookie decorating station at City Centre Bahrain’s winter display and decorate delicious home-made gingerbread men with your young ones for a great cause Venue: Winter Display at City Centre Bahrain Central Galleria Date: December 6th, 13th and 20th Time: 15:00 -18:00 Price: BD 2; All proceeds donated to The Palm Association

a complimentary gift from Elemental

Christmas Choir Performance on Saturdays Bring in the Christmas spirit as you listen to the Westin hotel choir performing all holiday classics outside T-Spoon. Bring your family and join in the singing! Venue:T-Spoon, Westin Bahrain City Centre Date:December 6th, 13th and 20th Time: 18:30 – 19:00 Fizzfare – The Sparkling Brunch at Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre Date: Every Friday from December 5th onwards Time: 12:30 - 16:00 Price: Fizzy Brunch BD 30 net, Soft Brunch BD 20 net Turkey Take-away from The Westin Enjoy Westin’s Eat Well concept in the comfort of your own home with our takeaway festive turkey meal. Venue: The Westin Bahrain City Centre Date: Reserve from November 29th; pickup between December 13thand 31st Price: BD 70++ net for a 5-6 kg turkey for 8-10 people Christmas at Saveur Venue: Saveur, The Westin Bahrain City Centre Date: 24th December 2014 from 19.00 – 23:00, Festive Dinner Buffet, BD 16 net 25th December 2014 a la carte lunch from 12:30 – 16:00 Festive a la carte lunch New Year’s Eve Set Menu Dinner in Saveur Venue: Saveur, The Westin Bahrain City Centre Date: 31stDecember Time: 19:00 – 01:00 Price: BD 30 net with one soft drink Heavenly Spa Special Winter Offer

scrub and de-stress massage and receive

Herbology. Enjoy a 75 minute body scrub and massage combination and at the end choose your free Elemental Herbology

product gift to take home with you. Open daily.

Venue: Heavenly Spa,The Westin Bahrain City Centre

Time: 10:00 - 22:00

Continuing from last month: Sea-zzling Nights at Saveur

Venue: Saveur, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

Date: Every Thursday, except December 25th

Time: 19:00 – 23:00

Price: BD 20 net including selected soft drinks and water

BD 25 net including selected hops and grapes

Children aged 6-12 half price and below six free

Hanna Turtsevich at Boudoir and Mezzanine Lounge Enjoy a night with our lovely Belarusian pianist and singer Hanna Turtsevich, born and raised in Minsk. Venue: Mezzanine Lounge and Boudoir, The Westin Bahrain City Centre Date: Daily except Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the month Enjoy T-Spoon at Home! Order a delightful cake from T-Spoon’s cake menu. Venue: T-Spoon, The Westin Bahrain City Centre Date: Daily (please allow 24 hours for your order to be prepared) Price: Starting fromBD 7++ For additional information or reservations: 1717 1000 or Email: restaurants.BCC@starwoodhotels. com Web: www.westinbahraincitycentre.com Find us on Social Media: Facebook: The Westin Bahrain City Centre, Twitter: @WestinBahrain, Instagram: #WestinBahrain

DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special

Block 338 and Cake Boutique

hat about spending Christmas and New Year’s Eve at a beautiful garden? Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? Pair it with live music, signature cocktails and exceptional food and you’ll have the most romantic festive evenings you could have in Bahrain. 338 Garden Restaurant offers a set menu for Christmas Eve and a buffet for New Year’s Eve, both for only BD 15++. This year , 338 Garden Restaurant offers you the choice of taking the festive feast home with you too, for your family gathering. You can order a full turkey, with all trimmings and traditional sides of your choice and have a beautiful party without all the work, just enjoy the fun! For more information call 17710338. Live music schedule: Sundays: Brendan Lynch with the best of international songs that you can sing along (and dance) with. Wednesdays: Mo &Iba bring you the best of folk and pop music. You’ll be addicted

DECEMBER 2014

to the romantic acoustic sounds of Wednesdays at 338. Thursdays: while the Jazz Trio plays at the garden, at the lounge you can enjoy the Open DJ night with our resident DJ Kaz and other local talents! Are you a DJ? Come play your set at 338! Our lounge can be yours for the evening! Fridays: NEW BAND: Elite Tones. Upbeat lounge tunes that will make sure your Fridays are packed with fun! Saturdays: True Blues duo. This duo has been playing at 338’s garden for some time and until today they are a synonym of a relaxing evening before you have to go back to work on Sunday. Playing from classic blues to Brazilian Bossa Nova, they make the best of the weekend. Promotions schedule: Every day: Happy Hour :Selected Cocktails, bubbly, wine and beers at 50% Off Tuesdays and Wednesdays, From 7pm to 11pm, Girls Gossip Night. Ladies pay BD5++ and get unlimited drinks from a selected list.

Festive magic at Cake Boutique

Cake Boutique brings the magic of Christmas in their cakes Impress your family and friends this festive season, be it for your gathering or as a gift, with Cake Boutique’s detailed designs and delicious recipes. You name it, Cake Boutique does it! Gingerbread houses and cookies are also a specialty at Cake Boutique and you can pass by the store to see the magic of these Christmas items in the making, watching live decoration happening through the glass of their open kitchen. Why not order a special cake this Festive season? Go ahead, your family and friends deserve it! Make your Christmas and New Year even more special with a cake from Cake Boutique. For more information call 17552253.

Christmas Eve

Wednesday 24th December 2014 Make this year’s party one to remember! Dress sharp and take your table in the sumptuous surroundings of the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef, where you can sip on a savor a Christmas dinner with all the trimming, the finest seafood extravaganza, and much more. BD 15.00* per person Traditional Christmas buffet including soft drinks. BD 22.00* per person Traditional Christmas buffet including open selected beverage.

Christmas Day Family Lunch Thursday 25th December 2014

Let’s do lunch this Christmas! It’s Christmas! So why not treat the whole family to a magical lunch? As well as fabulous Buffet, grownups will enjoy selected beverage. We did not forget the kids; they will enjoy the Kloon and face paintings. BD 11.00* per person Traditional Christmas buffet including soft drinks. BD 16.00* per person Traditional Christmas buffet including open selected beverage.

New Year Eve at Neyran Restaurant Wednesday 31st December 2014

Ring in the New Year with us at the Neyran Restaurant! Walk through the Symphony of Candle Lights; enjoy the extravaganza of Dinner Buffet, the Lebanese Live Band the selected DJ Beats, the Dance along and more! BD 45.00* Per person Authentic New Year buffet including open selected beverage.

Party & Sleep Package in New year:

Why go home after partying at Neyran Restaurant the ideal decision is t just to sleep Night and pamper you in a selected Suite at Mercure Grand Hotel Seef. Only BHD160.00* for One Bedroom Suite and enjoy: - New Year Party at Neyran Restaurant - Overnight accommodation - Free Breakfast on 1st of January 2015 morning. Arrivals 31st December 2014 and check out 01st January 2015 at 03PM

Casa Bar & Terrace New Year Eve Wednesday 31st December 2014 Countdown to the New Year with colleagues at the Casa Bar & Terrace, Join us to enjoy a celebration full of fun while enjoying the live music with the famous Topaz Band “Ahmed & Nahla “ . It will be a night to remember! BD 05.00 Net per Person Entrance Fees

Happy New year 2015 !! * The above rates are subject to 15% Service Charge & 5% Government Levy. Special offer for Group Reservation minimum 10 Pax - 50% for Kids under 9 years old

MercureSeef

MercureSeef LIKE US

Mercure Seef

DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special

Festive specialities at Elite Hospitality

New Year’s Eve, 31st December New Year count down at Zodiac, Elite Grande Hotel. BD 35 per couple. New Year count down and party at H20. BD 30 per person. Klub 360, Elite Crystal Hotel Bahrain’s wildest New Year party at Klub 360 celebrates the night away with the international female DJ Seherezade and turns up the heat with an exclusive set. Ladies: BD 15 Men: BD 25 Awtar Arabic set menu, live Arabic entertainment, singers and giveaways. BD 75 per person.

lite hospitality group offers a kaleidoscope of dining and entertainment options in its hotels throughout the festive season.

Christmas Eve, 24th December Elite Grande Hotel XMAS BBQ NIGHT AT H2O BD 24 per couple, kids 10 and above at BD 8 and free for kids under 10.

The Elite Resort & Spa – Muhharaq La Brasserie Special moments to be cherished with our Christmas Eve candle light dinner At La Brasserie restaurant. Set menu at BD 15 per person and BD 7 for kids. Festive party at Shift 7 Inclusive of open regular bar and finger foods. IL Giardino, Elite Seef Residence & Hotel International Christmas Eve buffet at BD 25 per couple and BD 15 per person from 7-11pm. 34

DECEMBER 2014

Christmas, 25th December Delightful Christmas brunch at Julio’s Restaurant, Elite Grande Hotel Time to be merry and celebrate Christmas with friends and family in the coziest restaurant in the Seef district, Christmas brunch from 12:30PM till 3:30PM at Julio’s restaurant. BD 25 per couple, kids 10 and above at BD 8 and free for kids under 10. Elite Crystal Hotel: Christmas Brunch: Christmas lunch buffet at BD 7.500 per person. Bountiful Christmas lunch at The Lotus Elite Resort and Spa, Waikiki poolside Grand gala festive brunch: BD 15 net per person, BD 5 net for kids 6-12 years old Christmas Lunch Buffet at IL Giardino, Elite Seef Residence & Hotel BD 25 per couple and BD 15 per person.BD 10 for kids. Christmas Dinner with Live Entertainment at Oasis poolside BD 20 per person and BD 30 per couple. BD 10 for kids.

La Brassirie: New Years Eve Dinner Buffet BD 30 per couple, BD 8 for kids 6-12 years old Waikiki New Years Party New Years Eve special finger bites, special sheesha and beverages menu. Al Noor Tent New Year Party: Arabic Night At Noor Tent Live entertainment programme with traditional Arabic buffet at BD 40 per person. New Year At Shift 7 Party At Shift 7 BD 30 For Ladies, BD 35 For Men, Inclusive Of Open Regular Bar And Finger Foods. Al Noor Tent New Year’s Party New Year’s Arabic night at noor tent, Abdulla Bahlool LIVE performing the best Arabic hit tunes.Lavish traditional Arabic buffet. BD 40 net per person. IL Giardino , Elite Seef Residence International buffer dinner including unlimited regular beverages. BD 30 for men and BD 25 for ladies.

Festive Season Special

FESTIVE Treats At Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Wednesdayfrom 7pm-11pm with live entertainment and free flowing of selected beverages for only BD 15++ and BD7++ for kids.  Buy 1 PIZZA or PASTA get 1 free, from 12pm- 3pm daily Tea Garden Offering connoisseurs collection of tea, pastries and gourmet sweets, sandwiches and cookies creates an ambience that will make guests want to stay all afternoon.  High Tea daily from 3pm-6pm BD7++

amee Grand Hotel & Spa is the perfect venue for festive treat. The warm, relaxed atmosphere, paired with friendly service is sure to make your occasion memorable. Join us and let us craft the ultimate Christmas and New Year experience. December 6 RGHS Christmas Tree Lighting Venue: Christmas Tree Lighting will take place in RGHS lobby Timing: Holiday Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. Main Musical Program & Tree Lighting Ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m. December 24 – Christmas Eve Christmas Eve Buffet at lemon Tree December 24 from 7pm - 11:30pm Priced for Adults: BD 16++ Kids:8++ Rialto and Rasoi– A la carte menu with a twist. December 25- Christmas Day Delightful Christmas Brunch at Lemon Tree December 25 from 12:30pm- 4pm Priced for Adults: BD 19++ Kids:8++ Rialto and Rasoi – A la carte menu with a twist December 31 – New Year’s Eve New Year’s Eve Buffet at Lemon Tree December 31, 2014 from 7pm - 11:30pm Priced for Adults: BD 18++ Kids:9++ Ruka - New Year’s Eve Lounge Night from 7pm- 3am, Rialto – New Year’s Eve set menu with wine pairing, from 7pm-1am,

Ibrida – New Year’s Eve celebration, from 9pm – 3am, Lemon Tree Spoilt for choice, all day & night Featuring a dynamic menu, the Lemon Tree, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa’s all day dining restaurant, is the place to indulge in international delicacies. Regular Offers FRIDAY FAMILY BRUNCH (December 5, 12, 19, 26) Feast your eyes on our spectacular Family Brunch at Lemon Tree every Friday from 12pm-4pm. BD18++ for adult and half price for kids. SEAFOOD NIGHT (December 4, 11, 18, 25) Every Thursday for only BD 14++ Rasoi Savour a contemporary Fine Dining experience of the traditional flavours of Indian cuisine at Rasoi. Atithi Devo Bahvah From 7pm- 11:30 pm Saturday till Wednesday BD 13 net, half price for kids Rialto Indulge with our extraordinary restaurant, Rialto with a complete Italian identity which joins the north and the south of Italy together. Unwind with your family and friends at Seafood BBQ every

Ruka Guests can also enjoy its dining throughout the day whilst overlooking with breathtaking views of Bahrain from the 24th floor, the vast azure Arabic Gulf and the infinite skyline at Ruka. Lunch Special From Sunday – Thursday from 12:30pm3pm, vegetarian and non-vegetarian available from BD 12 net. Express lunch BD 8 net. The Lounge sunset session Daily Sunday – Thursday from 4pm – 7pm. Order 1 tempura dish and get selected beverage. Red Lions At the Red Lions Sports Lounge, guests can unwind and recharge from early afternoon to midnight. Executive Lunch (Every Thursday & Friday from 12Noon 4pm). BD7.5 Happy Hour, from 4-8pm, 50% discount on selected beverages Ibrida Ramee Grand’s very own club, Ibrida is the heart of Bahrain’s biggest nightlife entertainment and has steadily become the perfect venue for the perfect night getaway to unwind. Ladies Night Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday : 9pm- 1am free flowing of selected beverages for ladies Thursday – 7pm – 12am - free flowing of selected beverages for ladies Happy Hour Thursday – 7pm-10pm For reservations call +973 17111999 DECEMBER 2014

Festive Season Special

Magnifique Christmas & New Year’s celebrations at Sofitel Bahrain

Christmas tree lighting and caroling event Date: Thursday, 11th December 2014 Time: 18.00hrs Join us to commemorate the beginning of the holiday season and its festivities with the lighting of our Christmas Tree as well as a rendetion of traditional Christmas carols by our choral choir. Christmas Eve Dinner Date: Wednesday, 24th December 2014 Celebrate Christmas Eve with yourfriends, family or colleagues over a delactable selection of carefully prepared cuisine. Saraya Restaurant: Time: 7.00pm – 10.30pm BD 22/net per person La Mer Seafood Restaurant: Time: 07.00pm – 11.00pm BD 34/net per person including 1 bottle of grape per table Christmas Brunch Date: Tuesday, 25th December 2012 Time: 12.30pm – 4.00pm Famed to be the longest buffet brunch on the island with the most unique selection 36

DECEMBER 2014

of cuisine. A kids corner with various childrens activities and baby sitters will be available as well as live entertainment from the resident Cuban Band BD42/net per person inclusive of a free flow of selected alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. FROM PARIS TO MANAMA Date: Wednesday, 31st December 2012 Venue: Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thallasa Sea & Spa - Al Nakheel Ballroom Time: Doors open at 8.00pm Dress Code: Formal Sofitel Bahrains Sea & Spa is bringing the most authentic, popular and glamourious entertainement from Paris to Manama. Celebrate the arrival of the New Year and spend your evening in a virtual Paris. Enjoy your diner in a wonderful, colourful and authentic atmosphere swinging over a glamorous cabaret show. Parisian Cabaret group will take you back in time. They are renowened for a their spectacular performances and glittering revues. Tickets are priced at BD75net/per person inclusive of selected alcoholic and non

alcoholic beverages. Book early to avoid disappointments. Sofitel has designed a special early bird room’s package of BD 199 net for two people which includesone night’s stay in a luxury room for two people, two tickets for the New Year’s from Paris to Manama dinner party in addition to breakfast on New Year’s day. The package will be available for a limited number of rooms, we advise you to book early as the prices will change Pashawat Arabic Restaurant: Date: 31st December 2012 Time: 8.00pm – 2.00am Dress Code: Formal Guests: Couples and families only Set menu inclusive of selected alcoholic drinks including arak, non alcoholic beverages as well as live arabic entertainment and a performance of belly dancing. BD 75/net per person For reservations and inquries Call: +973- 1763 6363 Email: H6722-am3@sofitel.com

Festive Season Special

Festive Season at the Gulf Hotel, Bahrain

he festive season is one of the most exciting times of the year. The Gulf Hotel is one of the prime venues to celebrate the festivities, giving you plenty of choices along with the promise of a great time for all ages. December 4, 2014 Christmas Tree sparkles When? 4th of December Timing: 6:00pm – 7:00pm Where: Andalus Lounge and Gulf Hotel Lobby December 24, 2014 – Christmas Eve Christmas Eve Buffet at Al Waha restaurant Price: BD. 20.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person Christmas Eve Set menu available at Fusions & La Pergola Restaurant Price: BD. 26.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person December 25, 2014 – Christmas Day Christmas Lobby Brunch Price: BD 25.500 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (Inclusive of Selected Alcoholic Beverages) Price: BD 18.500 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (Inclusive of

Selected Non Alcoholic Beverages) December 26, 2014 – Boxing Day Brunch Enjoy Boxing Day Brunch at Sherlock Holmes and as the tradition goes bring along your cool yule jumper and get a free bottle of free cool yule coors. Price: BD. 10.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person December 31, 2014 – New Year’s Eve *New Year’s Eve Buffet at Al Waha Restaurant Price: BD. 33.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (Inclusive of Selected Beverages) A Lebanese New Year at Zahle Restaurant Price: BD. 66.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (Inclusive of selected beverages) Note: Tickets required New Year’s Eve Romance at Fusions and La Pergola Price Set Menu: BD. 26.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person A Latin Evening at Margarita Mexicana A ’la carte menu New Year’s Eve Party at Sherlock Holmes Bar & Restaurant featuring DJ Rob

Price: BD. 10.000 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (inclusive of one selected drink) Note: Tickets required New Year’s Eve Party at Typhoon Bar featuring live acoustic trio ‘On The Spot’ Price: BD. 12.000 per person (inclusive of one selected drink) Note: Tickets required January 01, 2015 – New Year’s Day New Year’s Day Lobby Brunch price: BD 25.500 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (Inclusive of Selected Alcoholic Beverages) Price: BD 18.500 + 15% service charge and + 5% gov’t levy per person (Inclusive of Selected Non Alcoholic Beverages) Note: Tickets can be purchased at the Gulf Hotel Box office from December 4, 2014 onwards, between 4pm-8pm. Kids Policy: Kids aged below 6 eat for free. Kids aged 6-12 years old will be charged half price. For reservation or queries Email: fb@gulfhotelbahrain.com Call: The Food & Beverage office 1774 6404. DECEMBER 2014

Fashion

ALICE AND OLIVIA Pre-Spring 2015 by Stacey Bendet

DECEMBER 2014

Fashion

DECEMBER 2014

Fashion

Gift ideas Gift ideas for him and her BUILD-A-BEAR BUILD-A-BEAR

Charlotte Olympia by THE OUTNET.COM

MJ Daisy Dream Iris & Ink by THE OUTNET.COM

VICKISARGE by THE OUTNET.COM

Just Cavalli

Proenza Shouler by THE OUTNET.COM

DECEMBER 2014

Fashion

saksme.com

DECEMBER 2014

Competition

Winner of the makeover Shaima with makeover specialist Natalie Semaan

Win a hair and beauty makeover with our makeover specialist Natalie Semaan!

With over 320 entries for the hair and beauty makeover competition last month, we have brought the competition for our readers for the third month in a row. Talented makeup artist Natalie Semaan will be doing a glamorous hair and makeup makeover for one lucky reader every month and a second winner will win a free makeup class from the expert herself. Winners will be featured in the next issue of the magazine. Just answer the questions below and send in selfie to puja@sabayamag.com before the 15th of December.

DECEMBER 2014

1. Which hotel is reviewed in this issue? 2. What is the name of the car we have featured in this issue? (Hint: Answers can be found in this issue of the magazine) Winners will be picked at random and will be featured in upcoming issue. Makeover will include hair and makeup.

Monthly Makeover

Makeover with Natalie FT

O EF

B E

Our makeover winner Shaima Mohammed was picked as last month’s winner. She was treated to a dazzling festivebeauty makeover by makeover specialist Natalie Semaan. Natalie chose a look in tune with the festive season, that which would suit

Shaima’s features. On receiving her makeover, Shaima said: “I had a great experience with the makeover. Natalie was very nice and a lot of fun to work with. Not only did she do my makeup, she even taught me how to get my makeup right. She

demonstrated the smoky-eyed look, and I got plenty of valuable pointers from her. I am getting married soon so her tips would come to great use. I loved the entire experience and consider it as a wonderful opportunity.”

Natalie working on Shaima’s makeup

DECEMBER 2014

Beauty

Silk Edition by Bourjois

Bourjois has created the new powder sensation titled Silk Edition, The compact powder that takes you on an extreme sensory experience. Divine texture and bare skin sensation Inspired by silk, the texture of Silk Edition is designed to glide over the skin as lightly as a caress. Its formula is melting and it has an undetectable finish. This new generation powder creates

no overload or thickness. A genuine innovation formula for ultimate comfort and bare skin sensation. A flawless and matte complexion for 8 hours* Silk Edition evens out blemishes and dark spots. The crystalline powders contained in the formula provide a matte complexion for 8 hours*, while preserving the brightness of the skin and without drying it. The complexion is matte but never dull! Blurring effect for a smooth complexion Bourjois has further enhanced Soft Focus technology for Silk Edition. The corrective pigments are precisely measured.

DECEMBER 2014

Its effects are multiple!  Blurred pores and blemishes.  Smoothed fine lines.  Without freezing the features. The complexion looks delicately refreshed and brightened. Equipped with a 360 degree rotating mirror and a soft sponge (which reinforces the smoothing effect this slimline compact is incredibly practical. Designed as an accessory to be carried at all times!

DECEMBER 2014

Travel

Charming Chile

Eminently known as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest country, Chile is famous for its kaleidoscopic geographical diversity. It is never more than 180 km (112 miles) wide, but its coastline extends over 4,300 km (2,672 miles).

DECEMBER 2014

Travel

rom vast deserts and salt marshes, to snow-capped volcanoes and craggy glaciers, Chile packs an unforgettable punch with its seemingly endless natural wonders. Whether you’re looking for urban nightlife in Santiago’s bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, a civilized tasting of spicy Shiraz wines or an outdoor adventure trekking alongside sparkling lakes in the shadow of a volcano, a vacation in Chile will exceed your expectations. Here is a countdown of the top nine places to visit while in this beautiful country.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal is a hill in northern Santiago with a beautiful view over the city and, on a clear day, the Andes. At the peak, there is a church and a 22 meter (72 feet) statue of the Virgin Mary. The summit can be reached by cable car or a long hike. Cerro San Cristóbal houses the Parque Metropolitano, Santiago’s largest public park. In the park there is also a botanical garden, zoo and two swimming pools.

Easter Island

One of the most isolated islands on Earth, Easter Island is located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. Officially a territory of

Chile, it lies thousands of miles off the coast roughly halfway to Tahiti. The island is famous for its 887 extant monumental statues, called moai, created by the early Rapanui people centuries ago. Not surprisingly, the well-publicized moai have overshadowed the island’s other tourist attractions. But Easter Island also offers some great diving and surfing as well as two volcanic craters and several sandy beaches.

Lauca National Park

Lauca National Park is located in Chile’s far north, in the Andean range and is one of the top tourist attractions in Chile. The most spectacular feature in Lauca is the beautiful Lago Chungará, one of the world’s highest lakes.

Pucon

Pucón is a small touristy town in the middle of the southern Lake District. The unrivaled location by a beautiful lake and imposing volcano makes it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chile. Pucón offers a variety of sports and recreational activities including water skiing, snow skiing, white water rafting and kayaking, horseback riding, natural hot springs and climbing the Villarrica volcano. DECEMBER 2014

Travel

Torres del Paine

by boat or plane. The journey by boat is a spectacle in itself, passing through the narrow channels of the isolated Aisén region. What you can see from the boat is in fact just the end of the glacier’s, which extends some 15km (9 miles) from its source.

Valle de la Luna

Valparaiso

Torres del Paine is a national park in the Extreme South region of Patagonian Chile and features mountains, lakes and glaciers. The centerpieces of the park are the three Towers of Paine, three spectacular granite peaks shaped by the forces of glacial ice. Valle de la Luna is located in the Atacama Desert. This breathtaking desert landscape is the result of centuries of winds and floods on the sand and stone of the region. The large sand dunes and stone formations mimic the surface of the moon, giving the region its name, which translates to “Valley of the Moon.”

San Rafael Glacier

Located within the Laguna San Rafael National Park, the San Rafael Glacier is a giant glacier that calves into the Laguna San Rafael. The glacier is accessible only 48

DECEMBER 2014

Located on the Pacific coast of the central region of Chile, Valparaíso is known for its brightly coloured houses, bohemian culture and beautiful seaside views. Built upon dozens of steep hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Valparaíso boasts a labyrinth of streets and cobblestone alleyways, embodying a rich architectural and cultural legacy.

TIP: Contemplating of spending New Year’s Eve in an exotic destination? Head to Valparaiso! Why Go: The biggest New Year’s Eve

show in Latin America takes place in the Valparaíso harbor with a 20-minute fireworks show (launched from 17 different points along the coast between Valparaíso and Viña del Mar) and a dance party that lasts until the sun comes up. The festivities begin on the 28th, and by the 31st more than a million people have made their way to the city’s sandy shores for the beach party to end all beach parties. To ensure good luck in the New Year, do as the locals do and wear yellow underwear, eat a dozen grapes at midnight, and put a $1,000 peso bill in your shoe.

Los Pingüinos Natural Monument

The largest penguin colonies in southern Chile, Los Pingüinos Natural Monument is home to more than 120,000 Magellanic penguins. Located on the small Magdalena Island, just one square kilometer and topped by a pretty red lighthouse, it lies 35km (22 miles) northeast of Punta Arenas.

Travel

DECEMBER 2014

Techno Talk SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive

A nifty accessory for mobile file transfers and storage The SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive is a 2.53-inch tall and 1.4-inch wide USB and Lightning connector that is meant for transferring data from mobile device to mobile device or from mobile device

to desktop. Available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB

models, the iXpand Flash Drive will come to market for $69.99, $79.99, and $119.99 on BestBuy.com and on SanDisk.com.

The iXpand houses both the USB and Lightning

connector within a gray metal chassis. The

Final verdict

If you’re looking for quick,

high volume data transfer, go

elsewhere. If you’re looking for a tiny drive that can sync a few photos quickly, then this is the

right tool for you, but you might

not want to pay such a hefty price for portability.

Lightning connector is attached to the chassis via a rubber tube that is just flexible enough to protrude upward at a 45-degree angle into your mobile device.

There’s one other thing that might turn you off:

because the iXpand features a Lightning-based

connector, it’s highly possible the next generation of iPhones won’t even be compatible.

Techno Logic Latest Gadgets and what you will love about them!

A proof of concept rather than a fully fledged device Samsung Galaxy Note Edge The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge is a phone that’s got me hit under the collar. It’s another evolutionary step forward in the way we’re going to be using phones, right? I mean, it has to be. The rounded spine, with the screen curving away and tucking itself under the chassis, is surely the blueprint for the Samsung Galaxy S6 in 2016. Well, that is, assuming the idea of a curved display on one side isn’t a novelty and redundant beyond being a

Samsung’s Super AMOLED technology, which again makes the Note range the best phone screen I’ve seen on the market. Let’s get this out of the way first: you won›t like the Note Edge the first time you pick it up. I almost want to applaud Samsung’s designers for taking such a bold step, keeping the same high resolution display from the

clever marketing gimmick, of course. That’s also coupled with Note 4 but then adding in a few more pixels to bring us this clever spine which can independently show information. The camera on the Note Edge (a 16MP) affair) protrudes quite dramatically from the back of the 50

DECEMBER 2014

phone, although not to the point that you’d notice it in the pocket. The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge comes with Android 4.4.4 on board, the latest and last version of KitKat from Google. The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge isn’t short of power, with its meaty 2.7GHz quad-core processor and 3GB of RAM matching the innards of the Galaxy Note 4.

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge is a sign of things to come. There are several rumours pointing towards a similar curved screen set up on the Galaxy S6, but like the Galaxy Alpha testing out the firm’s next metal frame, the Edge looks to be a proof of concept rather than a fully fledged device in its own right. The fact it sports near identical specs to the Note 4 shows Samsung was just keen on getting that second display working, and while it’s done a commendable job in implementing the new technology, in its current form it’s still a little half baked and overpriced. It’s unlikely that many people you know will pick up an Edge, so if you really want to stand out from the crowd than this is a good option just make sure you’re near a charger each night.

Acer Liquid Jade

Acer’s best phone yet, at a mid-range price point Better known for its affordable laptops, tablets and other gadgetry, Acer seems keen to stake out some ground in the budget-to-mid-range smartphone market too. The Acer Liquid Jade is something of an oddity in many ways: it looks unlikely to make it to the States and in Asia it comes as a pair with the Leap smartband. The Liquid Jade offers some unusual features like dual SIM capabilities and a whopping 13-megapixel camera but cuts back in other areas — there›s no 4G support here, for example, which is a shame as the high-speed data network rolls out across the country. Videos look sharp and vibrant on the Liquid Jade›s screen and audio is above average thanks to the single rear speaker and the DTS-HD Premium Sound enhancements built into the phone. It’s not movie theatre quality but it’s surprisingly decent for a mid-range Android handset.

Performance is one of the areas where the Acer Liquid Jade slips to ‘satisfactory’ rather than ‘good’. A ho-hum 1.3GHz quad-core MediaTek processor and 1GB of RAM keep things moving, but I noticed occasional lag and hold-ups while apps got their ducks in a row.

Verdict

What matters to you most in a phone? If it’s a decent camera, a long-lasting standby mode or the ability to use two SIMs in one handset then get the Acer Liquid Jade near the top of your shortlist. In all other respects - value, design, performance - the phone manages to do okay, but not much more than that. It’s definitely Acer’s best phone yet, however, and at this kind of price level it›s perhaps unfair to moan too much about its shortcomings.

Kindle Voyage

The premium ereader appears ready for Christmas The Amazon Kindle Voyage is a device that›s a victim of its own success. The world cried out when ereaders began to erode the magic of the book - and now the ereader fans are raging against the dying of their light with the advent of reading on smartphones and tablets. The Kindle Voyage is more compact, sharper and essentially just a step up from any ereader the brand has made since the inception of the technology a few years ago. It’s hard for Amazon to make a big deal about an ereader when the technology of tablets is starting to munch away at the need for a dedicated device – and the Kindle Fire range is part of the problem. Raised to level off with the bezel, Amazon has created an ereader that feels more design house than something you’d sling into a bag and hope doesn’t break. The resolution has been upped to 300PPI, a huge upgrade from before.

Verdict

It›s a lot of money. Yes. There’s no doubting that. But the build quality, combined with the reading experience, tell me this is a premium product in the same way you can tell someone has a rather high salary when you slide into their Bentley. Reading is a hobby, and as such you should consider this something to

invest in. A smartphone is functional for a lot of people, a necessary evil even, but you buy an ereader because you want to carry a lot of books with you without needing a wheelbarrow. The reason the score isn’t perfect is that I can’t justify the price, as no matter how much you

want it, that’s still a hefty premium to pay. The Kindle Voyage is a premium ereader that’s designed for avid readers, those that know it will get a huge amount of use over the coming years. DECEMBER 2014

Auto Review

PORSCHE CAYENNE S MORE POTENT THAN EVER

By Fayez Abubacker

INTRODUCTION

The Cayenne is a spicy-hot mix of luxury, off-road ability, and sports-car performance just what you would expect in a Porsche SUV. Being a Porsche, the base model Cayenne S has a lot to live up to, so it’s easy to hustle around curves and is equally ready for family errands. Porsche’s guilty pleasure, the Cayenne SUV, is back and ready to keep cash billowing into company coffers. For 2015; Porsche has given its purist-infuriating high-performance crossover a modest refresh and swapped in a few new powertrains for good measure. Let’s take a look. 52

DECEMBER 2014

Auto Review view camera, lane-departure warning. The optional adaptive cruise control system is bundled with a forward collision mitigation system that provides automatic pre-impact emergency braking if a collision is deemed imminent. During our brake testing we find that the braking distances to be exceptional and smooth for an SUV.

6. EQUIPMENTS

OUR 6 POINT REVIEW 1. EXTERIOR

The front grille is now larger and carries a rectangular shape while the intakes flaking it have also grown in size and have received reshaped air blades. The headlamps are new and showcase a sportier shaped four-point LED daytime running light configuration. Down below, a set of revised fog lamps mounted in the redesigned lower apron enhance the Cayenne’s new aggressive appearance even more. The taillights are brand-new and make use of a three-dimensional effect. The inner halves mounted on the tailgate are much thinner and slightly longer, improving on the Cayenne’s already dynamic looks. The license plate recess has been elongated as well. Rounding off the rear fascia are the newly designed exhaust pipes.

2. INTERIOR

The innards look pretty much the same to previous models, save for the 918 Spyderstyle three spoke multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters. Customers will get to enjoy the same outstanding level of luxury consisting of high-quality leather, Alcantara-covered surfaces, carbonfiber and a bevy of convenience features and gadgets. The Cayenne’s interior shows its age a bit in the standard 7-inch touchscreens. The Cayenne has a luggage capacity of 23.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which is a pretty tiny number for a midsize crossover. On the bright side, the air suspension comes with a retractable load sill that lowers the cargo-area liftover height by a couple inches.

3. PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the changes for 2015

have left the Cayenne with four aces in its hand. The S, however, ditches its naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V-8 for Porsche’s new eight speed tiptronic S, twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6, AWD which puts out 420 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The Cayenne S needs just 5.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60mph. There’s even bigger news under the Cayenne’s hood, where Porsche focused on increasing both performance and fuel efficiency. Fuel economy is 20 mpg combined; a respectable figure for this level of output.

4. RIDE & HANDLING

The current Cayenne is a remarkably easy vehicle to drive, with very precise steering and a nimble, responsive character that belies its heft. That›s especially true with the PDCC system, which keeps the Cayenne eerily flat when driving through fast turns; another is Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), which distributes torque between the rear wheels to sharpen handling response. The V6 fires up relatively quietly though dipping into the throttle makes it a forgivable offense. All models benefit from updated gearbox control software aimed at improved shift times and smoothness. There’s little body roll, exceptional balance and supreme grip regardless of road surface.

While the standard equipment list gets a much needed boost, so to speak, with features like keyless entry, auto stop/ start, adaptive bi-Xenon headlights, auto dimming mirrors, rear view camera, ventilated seats, powered tailgate, tire pressure monitor, soft closing doors, 19inch wheels, beautiful panoramic roof, parking sensors, awesomely one of the best enjoyed music in Bose stereo. New options include rear seat air vents, smart cruise control, quad zone climate control, blind spot warning system. .

VERDICT Regarded as the sports car among SUVs, the Cayenne S has just become more aggressive and powerful, yet more fuel efficient, by means of this extensive facelift. With power output that surpasses that of the first-gen Cayenne Turbo, the new S appeals less to utility seekers and more to bona-fide drivers making the leap into an SUV, especially one that handles like something half its size. The Cayenne S remains a worthy entry in the luxury SUV segment, offering an interior bested only by Coventry and an essentially unrivaled combination of on-road dynamics and feel, paired with off-road capabilities more than sufficient for those families just grabbing groceries.

5. SAFETY

The Cayenne S comes standard with ABS, stability and traction control, front/rear side/ full-length side curtain airbags. Available electronic safety features include surroundDECEMBER 2014

Hotel Review

The savvy business travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abode Sheraton Bahrain

Exterior 54

DECEMBER 2014

Hotel Review Pool side

Located in the heart of Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business district, the Sheraton Bahrain hotel is the ideal selection to work and play for the discerning business traveller. Soie Restaurant

DECEMBER 2014

Hotel Review Club Level Room

ith an accommodation of 256 rooms, nine banquet and meeting rooms hosting up to 600 guests, five F&B outlets along with plenty of recreational facilities, Sheraton Bahrain offers the perfect balance between work and leisure. It is also directly linked to the World Trade Centre. The lobby level of the hotel hosts three out of the five F&B outlets including Soie Chinese restaurant, Al Safir restaurant and Espressamente Illy CafĂŠ, which also harbours Link@Sheraton, the business centre of the hotel. After a quick check in, I was led to my very spacious room on the 2nd floor. The room is fully equipped with a study table, mini bar, iron and ironing board, a safe, internet cable and a hair dryer. An emphasis is paid to sustainability and carbon footprint reduction. The hotel recycles its waste and every room has two separate bins, in order to recycle paper, plastic and glass. A brochure also encourages guests to reuse their bed sheets if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re staying for two nights or more. I then headed to the pool and fitness centre. Sheraton Fitness has two gyms, one for men and women and a separate one just for women. State-of-the-art cardio machines and equipment from Technogym line the vast space. An aerobic studio for men and women, sauna and steam room with separate access for men and women, rooftop tennis court, temperature-controlled jacuzzi and swimming pool are all part of the edifice. Swimming lessons are offered during summer months. Although there is no spa,

DECEMBER 2014

Espressamente Illy Cafe

Hotel Review guests can book a massage to relax and unwind from the daily grind. After a quick lap in the pool, I headed to Soie, the famed Chinese restaurant for dinner. Soie offers authentic Chinese delights in beautiful surroundings paired with great service. The staff suggested that I order Tom Yum soup, Stir Fried Baby Corn and Butterfly Prawns for starters and Stir Fried Vegetables, Sizzling Chicken Szechuan and Bean Curd with Vegetables for main course and finishing up with fried banana as dessert. Every victual was delectable, making Soie a must-visit if you adore Chinese fare. The Club Level is located on the 7th floor, and is the ultimate retreat for privacy and convenience. The Club Lounge offers light meals throughout the day and a separate meeting room for discussions and conferences. In need of some retail therapy? Head to Moda Mall, interconnected to the hotel through an entrance located on the ground floor. Pamper your senses at the salon or plan your next destination with assistance from a travel agency, both located within the hotel. Sheraton Bahrain was also the recipient of two major industry awards: “Bahrain’s Leading Business Hotel 2014” on the recent World Travel Awards and “Best Business Hotel in Manama” during the Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2014, which

Fitness Center

Al Safir Restaurant proves the high quality of their services. A sumptuous breakfast buffet is served till 10.30 am at Al Safir restaurant and in-room dining facilities are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Sheraton Bahrain combines all the elements required to make your stay memorable and exceed your highest expectations.

Meeting Room

For reservations call 00973-17533533. DECEMBER 2014

Restaurant Review

Finest South East Asian fare

Wok at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

DECEMBER 2014

Restaurant Review Chicken and beef satay

Mango with sticky rice

ok at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is a hidden gem of a restaurant serving the most delectable medley of Southeast Asian cuisine. It is a laudation to the dreamy sensuality of Southeast Asia, in terms of décor as well as gastronomy. Every element is evocative of Asia, from the intricate wooden panels and criss-cross ceiling boards to the hand painted walls. The lighting is especially magnificent, you can almost convince yourself that you’re at an exotic, cozy abode somewhere in Bali. The menu offers a mix of staples and specials from Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and more. This fantastic culinary journey started with appetizer suggestions from Cheenee, our very hospitable table attendant for the evening. Goi Vit which is a duck salad with papaya shreds, rice paper rolls filled with beef and herbs Goi Cuon Bo, green Asparagus and seafood salad Yam Nor Mai Far and chicken and beef satay was just the start of the feast. Presentation of each plate is impeccable, and Cheenee explained that all the utensils are made of clay. My favourite amongst the lot was the Goi Vit. It was piquant and refreshing, with the papaya lending it just the right amount of tang. The satay was served atop mini grill bars, lit by charcoal on the bottom with rice cakes and peanut sauce. Sauces are an imperative complementary relish, a different one for every victual. The portions are sizeable, which encourages minimal wastage and leaves more room to try different dishes. The place

also concocts a great mojito with spices and rose petals. Giant vases stand tall at the corners and statues of Buddha are placed close to the entrance of the restaurant. Outdoor seating overlooking the hotel’s beach and poolside is also available, which is perfect with the onset of pleasant weather. For main course, we went with a varied selection of vegetables, seafood, beef and chicken. Stir fried morning glory with chilli, garlic and bean sauce along with stir fried bok choy with shitake mushrooms and garlic in oyster sauce served as perfect side dishes. We ordered Mien Xao Thit Cua, which is a mesh of glass noodles with crab meat, bean sprouts, chilli, onion, celeryand shallots in XO sauce. My only complaint with this dish is the difficulty in selfserving because of the ingredients, but the attendants help you solve this issue by offering to serve. This dish has so much character and bursts with flavour. Rendang Sapi, braised beef brisket in coconut and spices is an Indonesian specialty which is an absolute must-try. The beef is tender and the gravy is delicious. Stir fried chicken with Thai chili paste, onion and mushroom or Gai Pad Med is a Thai dish which is the perfect combination of sweet and savoury, likely to become a staple favourite among guests. Mango with sticky rice and Indonesian banana fritters topped the feast with a sweet, happy ending. Wok is guaranteed to give you the epitome of fine dining, paired with great service in a scintillating atmosphere.

Goi Cuon Bo

Gai Pad Med

Goi Vit

Exotic mojitos

For reservations, contact 17636363. DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Jewellery Arabia 2014 bedazzles Bahrain! Over over 600 companies from 30 nations all over the world graced the annual jewellery event in Bahrain, which was held last month. It was officially inaugurated under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and saw the attendance of various dignatries and members of the royal family.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

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Out & About

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Out & About

Sabaya’s exclusive ‘hot lap’ with Audi at BIC Sabaya’s Puja Tiwari was given a feel of what it’s like to race around the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) track with fivetime Le Mans 24 Hour race winner Emanuele Pirro. He explained the various curves and turns of the track along with a brief explanation of speed dynamics. Mr Pirro is now an ambassador for Audi.

Toyota emerges winner at FIA WEC Six Hours of Bahrain at BIC

Toyota Racing had twice the reason to celebrate at a floodlit Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) after winning the FIA WEC Six Hours of Bahrain and also clinching the FIA World Endurance Drivers’ Championship for Anthony Davidson and Sebastien Buemi. The FIA WEC Six Hours of Bahrain was the seventh and penultimate round of the 2014 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

American Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association hosts annual craft fair at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel, Bahrain.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Masterchef at Cucina Italiana resturant, Juffair Cucina Italiana held another round masterchef at itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premises in Juffair. The popular cook-off saw the participation of budding chefs from around the Kingdom

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Porsche inaugurates used cars showroom in Sitra

Porsche Centre Bahrain, unveiled a

new chapter in the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successful establishment with the opening of a

new Porsche Approved Pre-Owned Car

Centre which has been built from concept to opening within 10 months. The new

state-of-the-art facility is located in Sitra

and occupies more than 5,000 square feet of premium space

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Edible cocktail workshop at Ruka, RGHS Edible coctails were taught to invited guests and members of the media at Ruka, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa located in Seef district. Mixologists demonstrated how to concoct fruit leather and various other elements involved in making a fruit roll cocktail.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Tati opens first store in the City Centre Bahrain French budget retail store Tati opened itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first branch in Bahrain at the Bahrain City Centre last month. Present at the event were members of the media and Tatiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CEO Emmanuel Deroude. Tati was established in Paris in 1948, and has 140 stores in France at present, selling everything from homeware to wedding gowns.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Internations November Community event at Ritz Carlton Bahrain

Networking community Internations held itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s November networking event at the Thai Lounge of the Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Dinner by Michelin-starred chef Frederic Simonin at Sofitel Bahrain Members of the media and invited guests were able to witness the fine gastronomical creations of michelin-starred chef Frederic Simonin as La Mer Seafood restaurant.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Think Pink cocktail reception at Lagoon poolside, Sofitel Bahrain

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Movember celebrations at Saks Fifth Avenue It was all about moustaches and men’s health at Saks Fifth avenue as they embraced the spirit behind ‘No Shave November’ in the presence of invited guests and members of the media.

DECEMBER 2014

Out & About

Dinner reception to celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week Under the patronage of Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro, the United Sates Embassy organized in collaboration of Bahrain Business & Professional Womens Club in Al-Jasra, a Dinner Reception to celebrate the Global Entrepreneurship Week in presence of U.S. Ambassador Mr. Thomas C. Karjeski and President of Bahrain Business & Professional Womens Club sh. Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa. During the ceremony, Dr. Fakhro delivered a speech stating that Entrepreneurship is the life blood of any economy.

DECEMBER 2014

Come& enjoy the festive season at the best garden in Bahrain, 338 Garden Restaurant. Christmas Eve & Christmas day Set-Menu for BD 15++

Leave your Christmas dinner to us, we do the cooking & you enjoy the carving!!! Turkey & Trimmings for BD 40++ (Serves 5-6 people; pre-order within a week in advance) +973 1771 0338

block338

DECEMBER 2014

In The Dark

Halloween at Klub 360, Elite Crystal Hotel

Staff makeup by Natalie Semaan

DECEMBER 2014

In The Dark

Gulf Night out at the Gulf Hotel

DECEMBER 2014

In The Dark

Weekends at Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa

DECEMBER 2014

In The Dark

Spartan arty at Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa

DECEMBER 2014

In The Press

Gulf Hotel Bahrain celebrates its 45th anniversary by winning The World Travel Leaders Award in the UK

Bahrain-based five-star Gulf Hotel, part of the Gulf Hotels Group, won the World Travel Leaders Award. World Travel Leaders Award recognizes those individuals and organizations that have contributed the most to the global travel and tourism industry over 35 years of the World Travel Market. The Gulf Hotel Bahrain was chosen by a distinguished panel of judges from the travel industry as the winner of the World Travel Leaders Award representing the Middle East as the most contributing organization to the tourism sector for more than 35 years. The award was presented to the Gulf Hotels Group’s Chairman Mr. Farouk Almoayyed and Chief Executive Officer & Board Member Mr. Aqeel Raees at the World Travel Market’s Global Stage

Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover Conducts Breast Cancer Medical Checkup for its Employees

to set an example in tourism and travel industry for all hotels in Bahrain. This award also marks the 45th anniversary of the Gulf Hotel Bahrain since it opened its doors for service in 1969 as the first fivestar hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain; to become an iconic hotel with 361 rooms, 97 executive apartments, 10 gastronomic restaurants and the biggest convention center in Bahrain which can cater up to 3000 delegates and continues to lead the 5 star market in spite of the presence of numerous international hotel chain properties. Mr. Farouk Almoayyed stated «This award represents a great honor for the group and the Kingdom of Bahrain. We believe that our group is leading the way for a great Arabian hospitality future and more success.”

Euro Motors, the exclusive dealer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain, organized a visit recently to the Bahrain Specialist Hospital, where their staff attended a Breast Cancer medical checkup, showing their support in the fight against Breast Cancer. The screening process for Breast Cancer was completely sponsored by Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover as they do not compromise on the welfare of their staff. Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover has always shown their presence in the fight against Breast Cancer, supporting this cause every year. Last year, Mrs. Jules Sprakel, founder of Think Pink, Bahrain Breast Cancer Society was invited to the Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover showroom where she gave a lecture on Breast Cancer, educating everyone present about all there is to know when it comes to Breast Cancer.An ‘off road’ event as well as a drag event on the track was also held last year at the Bahrain International Circuit supporting this crucial cause and spreading awareness about Breast Cancer. 82

DECEMBER 2014

Porsche Centre Bahrain launches Approved PreOwned Car Centre

Porsche Centre Bahrain unveiled a new chapter in the brand’s successful establishment with the opening of a new Porsche Approved Pre-Owned Car Centre which has been built from concept to opening within 10 months. The new state-of-the-art facility is located in Sitra near Porsche Centre Bahrain and occupies more than 5,000 square feet of premium space, which includes dedicated showrooms for approved pre-owned cars, as well as various visitor information points. Porsche Approved is the mark of distinction awarded to pre-owned vehicles which meet the brand’s high quality standards. The official certification, following a 111-item checklist and the carrying out of any necessary repairs, guarantees that pre-owned cars presented in the showroom meet the very high quality standards set by the Stuttgartbased manufacturer, therefore ensuring pleasure in driving, good quality, safety and stability of value.

In The Press

Hamad Mohammad Wins the Agile JAGUAR F-TYPE in City Centre Bahrain’s Autumn Fashion Campaign

Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover management members joined officials from City Centre Bahrain in presenting the winner of the Autumn Fashion Campaign, Hamad Mohammad, with the Grand Prize, the breathtaking Jaguar F-TYPE convertible at City Centre Bahrain. With Autumn being one of the key fashion periods and with City Centre Bahrain continuously striving to create unique ways to reward shoppers, Euro Motors decided to get in on the act by collaborating with mall and putting up the extremely fashionable and aesthetic Jaguar F-TYPE convertible as the grand prize. The criteria one had to fulfill to enter the raffle draw was a minimum purchase of BD40 from any store within City Centre Bahrain.

Massimo Dutti Reopens Seef Mall Branch

Massimo Dutti has reopened the doors of its Seef Mall Branch, located in in the heart of the Kingdom of Bahrain, with a redesigned interior ushering in a new era of shopping comfort and ease. The change is based primarily on finishes and shapes that aim for warmer, more contemporary spaces and environments. Walnut wood, brass, leather and dark marble are the dominant materials in the new architectural design that blends modern lines and classic details, the signature of the firm. The stores are designed to ease movement and feature strategically placed lighting and furniture, all developed and designed in-house by the interior design team in Spain. The store layout together with carefully display of merchandising allows the customer to experience an inviting and effortless product selection.

Haute-Couture Buche inspired by the Magical Islands of Bahrain

The pastry chefs of Sofitel Bahrain present a collection of well-loved traditional and novel goodies for “A Candy Sweet Christmas” In Macaraon Pastry Shop. In addition to the timeless Christmas classics, delight in Haute-Couture Buche in beautiful designs inspired by the rich heritage and vibrant Kingdom of Bahrain. Order an exquisite turkey with condiments and accompaniments to enjoy the comfort of your own home. Please make your booking 3 days in advance. For reservations and inquries please call+973- 17636410 or email H6722@sofitel.com

Minister of State for Electricity and Water Affairs patronizes the opening ceremony of GCC Power 2014

H.E. Dr. Abdul-Hussain Bin Ali Mirza, Minister of State for Electricity and Water Affairs, patronized the opening ceremony of GCC Power 2014. Organized by the GCC Regional Committee for Electric Systems (GCC CIGRE), the conference attracted more than 350 high-level industry attendees. Dr. Mirza also commended the positive and constructive contribution of CIGRE in expanding the technical know-how of the GCC human resources specialists. Dr. Mirza added that this conference provides the best platform for sharing experiences to achieve innovative solutions for the challenges facing the GCC electricity utilities, which in turn adds value to countries and societies. DECEMBER 2014

In The Press

InterContinental Regency Bahrain Extends Support to the RIA Center

Ebrahim K. Kanoo Reveals the Striking New Lexus RC and RC F

The InterContinental Regency Bahrain demonstrated its support to the local community by presenting the RIA Center(Rehabilitation Institute for Children with Autism) with much needed furniture items. Officials from InterContinental Regency Bahrain visited the RIA Center where they handed over numerous items of furniture to RIA officials. The furniture items included several beds, mattresses, baby cribs, chairs and table lamps. “We feel privileged to be able to extend our support to the RIA Center in Bahrain in view of the amazing role they play with regards to providing special education needs for children with communication and learning disorders,” said Mohammed Sanad, Executive Assistant Manager of InterContinental Regency Bahrain.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, has unveiled the entirely new Lexus RC and RC F, the cars that will redefine coupes and high performance vehicles everywhere. According to Lexus RC chief engineer Eiichi Kusama, “Three points – design, performance and advanced technology are important for RC. To make the exterior immediately recognizable, we adopted a design with a compact cabin contrasted by boldly protruding fender flares and body contours etched with deeply sweeping lines. We are very proud to develop such a unique coupe which delivers an outstanding driving experience to match its impressive looks. The eye-catching design of the RC evokes anticipation along with its remarkable performance. Once driven there’s no going back.”

Oysho & Mr. Wonderful present their new capsule collection for the fall-winter season. Oysho& Mr. Wonderful have joined forces once again to launch a fabulous new collection in which positive messages and the desire to put a big smile on everyone’s face once again provide the inspiration for this second collection. Both brands remain true to the positive vibes that put them on the same wavelength and laid the foundations for this joint venture. This season is overflowing with cheerful, fun messages, accompanied by some extremely cute new illustrations that are the essence of the Mr. Wonderful style. The wide range of print garments come in a choice of tones, with lots of navy blue, red and grey. This latest collection comes with its own specially designed packaging, as well as competitions launched on Oysho’s social networks. 84

DECEMBER 2014

Officine Panerai participates in Jewellery Arabia 2014 Italian high-end watchmakers Officine Panerai, acclaimed for their unique blend of Italian design and Swiss technology, announce their participated in the 11th edition of Jewellery Arabia. In collaboration with long term partner Asia Jewellers, Officine Panerai will once again appealed to the region’s biggest connoisseurs by exhibiting a selection of extraordinary timepieces reflecting the brand’s heritage and watch making knowhow. The pieces selected for this exhibition included the Luminor Marina (PAM00547) and the Radiomir 10 Days GMT (PAM00556), two watches made in limited editions of 50 and 10 units each respectively and dedicated to Manama, the capital of Bahrain. The two watches have the iconic World Trade Center towers engraved on the back of the steel case and are both supplied with a personalised leather strap and large-size polished steel buckle.

In The Press

City Centre Bahrain reveals the Art of C Gallery After a six day workshop that united the creativity of the Kingdom’s finest artists and an inspiring group of local talents, Majid Al Futtaim and City Centre Bahrain’s ‘Art of C’ community arts initiative concluded yesterday with a ceremony to unveil the final 10 unique works of art. Hosted under the patronage of His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al-Khalifa, AssistantUndersecretary for Tourism and joined by Senior Mall Manager of City Centre Bahrain, Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi and Abbas Al Mousawi, one of the Founders of the Bahrain Arts Society, the event paid tribute to the workmanship of all artists, while celebrating the diversity and richness of the Kingdom’s thriving arts culture in the lead up to 43rd Bahrain National Day. Inspired by the theme, ‘A Tribute to the Kingdom’, artists from the Bahrain Arts Society joined hands with emerging artists from across the community in the form of a mentored workshop to decorate the C-shaped canvases in a way that celebrated the nation’s culture, history or architecture. Various mixed media were used, including embroidered fabrics, woven palm tree leaves, seashells, coloured glass, paints and calligraphy.

The Westin And Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Associates Clean Al Malkiya Beach

The Westin and Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre’s associates joined together at Al Malkiya Beach in the Northern Municipality to clean the communal beach. Associates from both hotels across all departments, including management, participated in the activity. Splendid sunshine and cool breeze accompanied the associates as they donned special gloves, rakes and spades given by the Northern Municipality to facilitate the cleaning. Scores of large rubbish bags were filled with debris found on the beach. Plastic bags, bottles, bottle caps, cans and can lids, and drift wood were carefully amassed by the associates and removed by a truck arranged by the municipality. The initiative was widely appreciated by the local community.

Dar Naseem Alandalos Make History As The First Arab Brand To Show In The Eiffel Tower

Bahraini powerhouse, Dar Naseem AlAndalos, have premiered their new breed of haute couture collection with a completely different and unique French-Moroccan fusion. They launched their Haute Couture Fall Winter 2014/15 collection in The J Autumn Fashion Show, which had transformed the most famous architectural wonder and the symbol of the fashion capital, the Eiffel Tower, into the world’s newest catwalk on October 31st, 2014. This show was a first of its kind making the designers the first Arab designers to ever have a fashion show in the Eiffel Tower. This motivated the designers to create a unique collection inspired by Paris, “The Eiffel Tower has so much history and we wanted to reflect that in the collection. We were inspired by the Parisian Woman’s elegance and style during centuries” says Creative Director, Hayaa AlFadhel. The designers focused on draping and creating new silhouettes that varied from ball gowns to fitted silhouettes. “We wanted to show something different for Paris, so we came up with designs that we feel would appeal to elegant women everywhere.” DECEMBER 2014

In The Press

Nutritious Meals on the Go Salad Boutique Launches Office to Go Meal Boxes

Salad Boutique, one of Bahrain’s most beloved chic eateries in Adliya’s 338 district, has launched their new meal delivery service called “Office to Go.” Combining high-quality meal with speedy delivery, the new service goes far and beyond the traditional menu offering a wide variety of soups, appetizers, salads, pastas and sandwiches. The service will be available in all across Bahrain, starting at its launch. Salad Boutique not only provides customers with a freshly prepared healthy meal, but also efficient delivery right to your office desk within the hour. “Office to Go” also offers a selection of light options for those watching their waistlines. Customers can order from a range of delectable sandwiches whose calorie content are detailed on the menu.

The CLA45 AMG Arrives in Bahrain

Mercedes-Benz fans and afficionados can rejoice - the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG has finally arrived in Bahrain. General Manager Mr. Graeme Newport and Sales Manager Bryan Logue were both present to proudly receive the car as it arrived in the Al Haddad Motors showroom early this month. The four-door coupe follows in the design footsteps of the successful CLS63 AMG, the trendsetter for four-door high-performance coupes. With a maximum power output of 355 hp and a peak torque of 332 lb.-ft., the CLA45 AMG is the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine built in series production. Graeme Newport, General Manager of Al Haddad Motors: “In the CLA45 AMG, Mercedes-AMG presents a unique and absolutely desirable automobile with the characteristic AMG genes. We are beyond excited to have this car in our showroom.” 86

DECEMBER 2014

Best Western conducts manager orientation session

Best Western held their regional meeting and general manager orientation at the Best Western Olive in Juffair. The owners, the management team from three hotels in Bahrain, along with participation from two hotels in Saudi and two from Kuwait attended the two-day conference. The chain is expanding rapidly within the Middle East region and currently has 198 hotels under the franchise /management agreement in Asia/Middle east.

Banking industry gears up for the 21st Annual World Islamic Banking Conference

Industry titans, pioneers and global leaders in the international Islamic banking and finance industry will take part in the 21st Annual World Islamic Banking Conference (WIBC 2014), which is set to commence this month at the Gulf Hotel in Bahrain. Held under the theme “Islamic Finance: Towards the New Paradigm Shift in Global Financial Markets”, the three day event is convened under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain and is supported by the Central Bank of Bahrain.

DECEMBER 2014

Last Note

How to celebrate National Day like a local!

ational day is one of the biggest festivities on this little island. In addition to hotels and buildings in the capital, each governorate puts up a dazzling display of lights and flag linings. This year marks the 42nd National Day and the 15th anniversary of His Majesty King Hamad›s accession to the throne. There are plenty of cultural events and fairs at The Bahrain International Circuit and various ministries, organizations, local clubs, associations, malls, schools, university and expatriates associations as a token of

DECEMBER 2014

love and dedication for the kingdom. One of the most popular traditions is to drive to the Clock Tower roundabout in Riffa to witness the spectacular light display and fireworks on National Day. Here’s how to enjoy it like a local:  Carpool! Get a bunch of friends in a car preferably with a sunroof.  Get Bahrain flags in different sizes so you can wave them out of the window or sunroof in short intervals. Make sure they’re not too big, no one’s a fan of casualties.  Play patriotic music. It even sounds groovy.  Brace yourself for a time period of at least 2-3 hours from any given point

to the Clock Tower.  Carry plenty of munchies; it’s going to be one long ride!  Light-up accessories are even better. Glow wands, light spheres and the whole lot.  Carry a camera. The light displays are truly breath-taking.  Answer Mother Nature’s call BEFORE getting into the car. There aren’t many chances to relive yourself on the way to the roundabout.  Remember how blessed you are to live in a kingdom that offers cultural diversity and secularity. Don’t forget to have fun!

DECEMBER 2014

real watches for real people

Oris ProDiver Chronograph Automatic mechanical movement Unidirectional bezel with RSS protection Automatic helium valve Water resistant to 100 bar/1000m

www.oris.ch

DECEMBER 2014