Germany in Bahrain - October 2021

Germany in

October 2021

A Special Supplement by Bahrain This Month

THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editor Farah Baig

contents

BAHRAIN THIS MONTH • GERMANY IN BAHRAIN • OCTOBER 2021

Contributors Kristian Harrison Editorial Consultant Ahdeya Ahmed Graphic Designer / Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Art Director Hatem Monem Webmaster Nishad Eapen

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CRM & Database Coordinator Muna Yousef

Sustaining Diplomatic Relations

German Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, HE Kai Boeckmann, sheds a light on the diplomatic relations between the two countries highlighting the current status of trade, cultural exchange and more.

Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services)

A True Innovator

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Media Sales Anuradha Manhas anuradha@redhousemarketing.com

DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Digital Marketing Director Farah Baig Printing Press Union Press, Bahrain

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Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2019 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3

With life’s focus shifting to digital transactions and e-commerce, German entrepreneur, Sebastian Wussler, has settled in the Kingdom to empower small businesses to transition and grow in this new economic environment.

Exploring Germany

Our globe-trotting journalist, Kristian Harrison, sheds light on some of his favourite cities and towns, big and small, to visit in Germany!

Bridging Cultures

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Hans Lamprecht is a distinguished diplomat, with a globe-trotting career which culminated in a posting in Bahrain. Recently retired, he remains in the Kingdom after falling in love with its culture and people.

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1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

COMMERCIAL INDEX Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) ........................... BC DHL International ........................................................ IBC Dr. Murat Women's Clinic .............................................10 Euro Motors (BMW) ......................................................11 Mohammed Fakhroo & Bros (Moser ............................IFC

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Sustaining Diplomatic Relations German Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, HE Kai Boeckmann, sheds a light on the diplomatic relations between the two countries in this conversation with Farah Baig.

You have been stationed in the Kingdom of Bahrain since 2018. Since the start of your assignment, what have been the greatest developments at the German embassy?

We have seen many significant developments but I would like to highlight three in particular: we are now very active on social media, have reached large audiences with our cultural events, and, significantly, the depth and intensity of our bilateral cooperation in the political field has increased remarkably.

To elaborate, since October 2018, the Embassy of Germany has started to communicate with all friends of Germany in Bahrain and with the German community via 4 October 2021

social media. Our Instagram Account @ germanyinbahrain is well established now has well over 5,000 Followers. Since March 2021, people can also follow me on Twitter using the handle @germanybahrain. With the outstanding support of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), we have also brought many renowned artists to Bahrain. The German embassy has also helped to ensure a high-level presence of German representatives in the last three editions of the Manama Dialogue. It is not by chance that HE the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, has already been to Berlin twice since taking office.

I would like to mention another important

development in the political field, because we profoundly believe in the added value of the European Union’s foreign policy; As local presidency of the EU from the beginning of 2020 until June 30, 2021 and thanks to VTC technology we have extended the EU coordination to all EU member states accredited to Bahrain, including over 20 ambassadors based in Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. We were very pleased that high-ranking guests – foremost among them HE the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Kingdom of Bahrain - could join these extended EU-coordination meetings. This has contributed to a better understanding of Bahrain by our European partners. www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanyinbahrain Approximately how many Germans and German businesses are currently in Bahrain?

The German community in the Kingdom of Bahrain has been very stable over the years.

So, we still count an approximate 500 German citizens who permanently reside in the Kingdom. Also, the thirty or so German companies actively engaged in Bahrain have shown remarkable resilience over the last couple of years.

What are the key sectors that German citizens in Bahrain are currently engaged in?

German citizens are engaged in many activities in the private sector such as industrial production, finance, water management, construction, transport, tourism and education. Their activities are as diverse as the Bahraini economy. Most work for German companies, some also in Bahraini companies and some in the neighbouring Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

How are they adapting to the challenges presented by the current pandemic?

I have heard many positive comments from members of the German community about how much they appreciate the availability of vaccines for all residents in Bahrain. Also, the transparency regarding the numbers and the strategies adopted to combat COVID--19 offered by Bahrain’s National Medical Task Force for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID19) is highly appreciated - this has greatly facilitated our work at the German Embassy.

What are the current trade figures between the two countries? Are there any developments in the pipeline to further strengthen trade relations?

Among the EU member states, Germany is the most important trade partner of Bahrain.

German and Bahraini companies are very much aware of the benefits of trade. The trade figures continue to be on the rise, despite COVID-19 - bilateral trade in 2020 amounted to EUR624.6 million compared to EUR476.1 million in 2019. Bahrain’s imports from Germany in 2020 rose by a third to the value of EUR499.7 million while Bahraini exports to Germany reached EUR124.9 million.

Since the start of the pandemic in February last year, people all around the world have faced several challenges. How did the German embassy prepare to meet these challenges?

The last one and a half years were, for us, a time of swift adaptation to the development www.bahrainthismonth.com

of the COVID-19 pandemic. We have changed how we work – home office and video conferences have enabled us to function fully even in the most difficult weeks of the pandemic. Our visa section did not close for a single day, to enable those who need to travel for urgent reasons to do so.

Video conferences have now become a regular part of our internal and external communications. We have learned a lot, most of all, how to stay connected with colleagues and partners in times of difficulties. As a result, the headquarters of the German Foreign Office and the embassies are now working closer together than ever before. Also, the regional networking has increased – not only between the EU member states accredited to Bahrain. A regular exchange with my fellow German ambassadors in the GCC countries has become routine.

What was the embassy’s policy towards continued commercial partnerships, investments and mutual growth during this period?

As German ambassador, of course I support all partnerships between German and Bahraini business representatives. Since the beginning of the pandemic I have been meeting regularly with the German business community in Bahrain once a week to listen to their assessments and concerns. We often meet with companies who are about to enter Bahrain and are there to support all partnerships and bridge builders between Germany and Bahrain. I have participated in many webinars dealing with business matters and whenever possible, we have met in person, for example facilitating meetings between the German business community in Bahrain and Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB).

Even in this period several companies have expanded their operation to include Bahrain and it has been my pleasure to receive them.

The role of cultural exchanges between Bahrain and Germany have always been high on the agenda. How are these being developed for the future?

We will strive to continue and expand our excellent partnership with Bahrain’s Authority of Culture and Antiquities led by Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa in order to bring German artists to Bahrain. We are preparing for the second edition of the Gulf German Film Festival in cooperation with Goethe Institute Gulf. In addition, we are seeing an expansion of the German Language Program – the language courses offered by the German Embassy in

Manama for children, young people and adults with the support of the Goethe Institute Are there any high-level delegations or VIP visits planned for the future? If so, how will these be managed?

I am quite confident, that in the upcoming IISS Manama Dialogue from November 19 to November 21, 2021 Germany will again be represented, like in the last three years, by high level panel speakers and delegates. The Manama Dialogue is such an important forum.

Last year’s event has impressively shown how such a high-level conference can be successfully managed even in times of COVID-19.

What are your main goals and objectives for your remaining time in Bahrain?

First of all, I strive to deepen and broaden the cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Federal Republic of Germany in all political fields. Germany has just celebrated federal elections and is preparing for a new government to take over the helm from Chancellor Angela Merkel. Germany will remain strongly committed to the partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain. Next year, on May 17, 2022 we will celebrate and look back on 50 years of diplomatic relations between Germany and Bahrain. Secondly, I hope to see some of the economic projects which are still in the pipeline reach concrete results on the ground. In the cultural field, I am very optimistic that soon it will be possible to bring German artists and musicians to Bahrain, so that the Bahraini public can once again enjoy a direct encounter with German culture without having to travel to Germany. Finally, we are working for further growth of our followers on social media.

How do you plan on achieving this?

As in the past, the secret of success is to closely work with trusted partners. The Bahraini government, under the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister has been an outstanding partner and given tremendous support to all our activities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the leadership of HE the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani has been helpful and supportive on a daily basis. The Bahraini business community has also been open-minded and welcoming, just like all our friends and partners in Bahrain’s rich social and cultural communities.

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GOING THE DISTANCE Makram Raad, Country Manager of DHL Express tells us about the worldleading express and logistics company’s presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

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s an international courier, package delivery and express mail service, DHL needs no introduction to the vast majority of people. The company has had a presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain since 1976 and has steadily grown through the leadership and strength of its employees. Having first arrived in Bahrain in 2019, DHL Express’ new Country Manager, Makram Raad, is prepared to take the company even further in his leadership role.

The Lebanese national has lived in the GCC and been with DHL for nearly 10 years, working in multiple roles and capacities. “As the new Country Manager, my main priority is to further promote the Kingdom’s trade ecosystem and continue to add value to its competitive offering, attracting investments while contributing to the community’s economic wellbeing,” says Mr. Raad, who holds an MBA with a focus on Finance from Notre Dame University.

“I am happy to be taking on this new role in Bahrain and look forward to growing the business and capitalising on the opportunities that the Kingdom has to offer,” he adds.

Competition in the logistics and courier service is fierce so a competitive edge is a must. “We have a strategic advantage as a result of our deep understanding of market dynamics which gives us an edge in the industry,” explains Mr. Raad. “However, I would have to say that our biggest strength is our people. It is through our employees that we deliver quality service and that has 6 October 2021

guaranteed us continuous progress and improvement.”

Globally, and in the region, the company has continued to make sound investments. “What sets any service apart is being able to adapt to the constant changes in customer behaviour and requirements. We continuously invest in our aviation fleet, facilities and ground operations to support the growth of our partners and provide them with top notch service,” he says.

“DHL is the most international company in the world and employs certified international specialists from across all continents. Our diversity is a key driver of our success and enriches our skill sets and expertise,” he adds.

Speaking of the company’s approach to tackling the pandemic in 2020, he highlights the achievements across 220 countries

and territories which DHL operates in: “Amid a pandemic that took the world by storm, we managed to truly deliver purpose by connecting people. With healthcare needs being top priority, we delivered on our promise to serve this sector by shipping tons of personal protective equipment and later on billions of vaccines.”

“Our processes, capabilities and people were put under tremendous strain but I am proud to say that we have come out stronger than before,” he adds.

Some of the many changes to the company’s processes were the introduction of contactless signatures, and the adoption of additional safety measures to protect customers and front liners.

“While we are still not out of the pandemic, we continue working hard to support the community during this time,” he says.

Aside from the need for medical supplies, consumer demands surges as the WorkFrom-Home culture took hold during the pandemic. “It was up to DHL Express and other industry providers to fulfil these logistical needs. We capitalised on our expertise and local know-how to optimise our courier routes and achieve the promised transit times,” he explains.

As explained by Mr. Raad. the economy is forecasted to expand by 3.1% based on latest experts reports with many sectors bouncing back after a rough year, particularly in energy and retail.

“The market presents major opportunities and with a new airport there are ambitious growth targets for cargo handling. Our aim remains to promote the Kingdom and to facilitate its trade agenda,’ he concludes. www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanyinbahrain

A special anniversary: 75 years of MOSER

A special anniversary: 75 years of MOSER

MOSER stands for reliable and innovation customers and hairdressers the globe MOSER stands for reliable quality quality and innovation in the areasin of the hair areas clipper and blade set technology.

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them with innovative technologies that allow them to enjoy

Black Forest. This “region of inventors” has been known for

clipper! The company is still keeping the details of the

“We want to use this anniversary to express our gratitude to our

introduced in 2021

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With the 'My Masterpiece' campaign,video, which will countries.

The extremely reliable qualityhairdressers of its appliances company’s development from its founding to we want to ensure that we continue to provide with the and optimalshow tools inthe the future and inspire them with innovative technologies them to enjoy their craft their infinite creativity", explained Burger, one of the In twoaddition, managing the hairdressing blade setsthat canallow be partially attributed toand theunleash roots of the longbecoming an Jörg innovation leader. directors. established company, which is based in Unterkirnach in the industry can look forward to two special highlights: A new hair For its anniversary, MOSER is planning special activities this year to celebrate this milestone. This includes a specially designed centuries as a haven of innovation and skilled craftsmanship. appliance secret. However, one aspect can already be revealed: anniversary logo, various advertising materials and social media campaigns and a new corporate video, which will show the Throughout its 75-year history, toMOSER epitomised Itsaddition, name KUNO will be an homage to company company's development from its founding becominghas an innovation leader. In the hairdressing industry can look forward founder Kuno from Black asis still wellkeeping as the Moser.

In addition, MOSER will present an can inspiring collection toprecision two specialtechnology highlights: A new hairthe clipper!

The Forest company the details of the appliance secret.

However, one aspect perfect symbiosis of aKUNO storied tradition and technological that will Incombine modern with contemporary art already be revealed: Its name will be an homage to company founder Kuno Moser. addition, MOSER willhairstyles present an inspiring collection that willa combine hairstyles contemporary art and elements inspired by the Black Forest in a way Forest in a way progress.

On creativemodern level, which is with absolutely essential for traditional and traditional elements inspired by the Black that has never been seen before.

A totalcreates of nine creative looks, which will serve as inspiration hairdressers, will beAintroduced in creative looks, hairdressers, MOSER constantly new hairstyles, cutting that has neverfor been seen before. total of nine 2021 techniques and artistically and culturally influenced inspirations. which will serve as inspiration for hairdressers, will be

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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A TRUE INNOVATOR Life has undoubtedly changed dramatically in the past couple of years, with focus shifting to digital transactions and e-commerce. One German entrepreneur has settled in the Kingdom to empower small businesses to transition and grow in this new economic environment.

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ebastian Wussler has a storied history in digital platforms, none more impressive than his latest creation Hoodly, which was conceived in Bahrain last year during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The genesis of Hoodly came during the period of strictest COVID-19 regulations last year,” Sebastian explained. “Certain restaurants didn’t have a delivery platform but then found themselves needing to have one so that they could sustain their business with indoor dining obviously not an option.

“These outlets weren’t on apps such as Talabat here in Bahrain, or equivalent services in Europe and the wider Gulf region. It takes several weeks to be approved on those apps, and not only that, but it’s hard for smaller restaurants to be seen over the traditional giants.

Hence, Sebastian had an idea to create a software that would allow every restaurant to have their own takeaway store online within five minutes. This was developed over a couple of weeks and managed to get a great response in a very short time.

“We quickly began to realise that not only restaurants were using it but fashion stores too, and so Hoodly grew to allow you to create any type of commerce outlet, whether that’s takeaway and delivery, click and collect for goods and anything else within reason,” he says.

Hoodly has already branched out to Europe, East Africa and the Middle East with a presence in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman and 8 October 2021

Yemen. “I must also take the time to thank my partner and co-founder Kaushal Singh, who is one of the most intelligent people I know and I couldn’t have done it without him,’ he added.

Sebastian decided to settle in Bahrain after first visiting for food events in late 2019. After one particular event at Mahonia Restaurant and Lounge featuring one of the world’s most renowned chefs from Hong Kong and after revisiting the Kingdom, he noticed a gap in the market, with the Middle East yet to fully embrace the idea of e-commerce.

Hoodly is not Sebastian’s first success. He has a restaurant background with a family business of 50 years spanning three generations.

He explained: “I am proud of my background, but admittedly at 21 I decided that I didn’t want that to be ‘it’. I wanted to discover the world and went to South Africa to learn English and improve myself. I met my now ex-wife and mother of my beautiful daughter,

but unfortunately my mother fell ill with cancer in 2007 and as the eldest son I came back to support the restaurant.

“Despite this, I had to find a way to make more money to visit friends and family so I started a platform similar to Airbnb for South Africa, called NewCapeTown. Since there was increased tourism in the area and a huge focus on the 2010 World Cup, we ended up with 1,250 guest houses and boutique hotels on the app for people to stay in. Not only that, but we developed it further to include a city guide with tourist information such as restaurant recommendations.”

After the World Cup, Twitter exploded worldwide and Sebastian decided to create a similar platform called ChefsTalk, where guests could interact with chefs directly. A decade later, 180,000 chefs use the platform and it boasts two million followers on Instagram.

Now, his focus is on growing Hoodly but the ideas don’t stop there. www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanyinbahrain

Mercedes-Benz Bahrain

63 Years of German Excellence in the Kingdom Of Bahrain.

Al Haddad Motors has been the sole authorised general distributor of MercedesBenz in the Kingdom of Bahrain since 1958.

During this period, Al Haddad Motors has persevered in providing its clients with the most comprehensive and highest quality of services. At Al Haddad Motors, customer satisfaction is a top priority and this is ensured by providing clients with unprecedented vehicles and excellent customer services in both sales and aftersales.

Al Haddad Motors strives to be the best in the market by developing and enhancing operations constantly raising standards resulting in becoming a leader in the automotive market in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Al Haddad Motors has recently had a major renovation to both its Salmabad and Tubli facilities to meet the Mercedes-Benz MAR 2020 requirements. The MAR 2020 initiative was developed by Mercedes-Benz to enhance customers’ experience by eliminating the traditional purchasing experience and implementing a digitalised and personalised experience.

Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its innovations and new technologies, and changing the concept of a car showroom is only one way in which Mercedes-Benz has pushed boundaries. Technologies such as the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), Driving Assistance Package, E-ACTIVE BODY www.bahrainthismonth.com

His Excellency German Ambassador Kai Boeckmann with the Chairman of Al Haddad Motors, Rasool Al Haddad at the opening of the renovated Mercedes-Benz Service Center in Salmabad.

CONTROL, and PRE-SAFE® Plus system not only put Mercedes-Benz ahead of its competition but also help in keeping the drivers and passengers safe and relieves some strain from the driver.

Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with luxury and elegance and this is evident in the exterior and interior designs. The design idiom for Mercedes-Benz is Sensual Purity, which is characterised by the striking radiator grilles, dynamic side lines and sensually traversing surfaces that largely do away with creases. A modern interpretation of luxury calls for emotional, authentic experiences. With this in mind, the bipolarity of traditional craftsmanship

and sophisticated technology also forms the focus of interior design at Mercedes-Benz. The vehicles exude Sensual Purity, setting standards in precision and quality with an extraordinarily high-grade finish.

Mercedes-Benz has also developed Mercedes EQ, an electric range of Mercedes vehicles. With a few models already on the road in different parts of the world, the Mercedes EQ range is set to grow, including the Mercedes EQS, the first all-electric luxury saloon.

For more information on Mercedes-Benz please visit www.alhaddadmotors.com or call 17 785-454.

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Minimal Invasion for Maximum Success Dr. Murat Women’s Clinic is committed to medical excellence in the field of women’s health.

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s a German and Bahrain BoardCertified Consultant for obstetrics, gynaecology and gynaecologic oncology, breast cancer, advanced minimal invasive gynaecology and robotic surgeries, Dr. Murat Koc is a leading authority in women’s reproductive ailments focusing on minimal invasion for maximum success.

He is highly specialised and experienced in gynaecological laparoscopic and breast cancer diagnostics and treatments, including advanced cases, using an approach that incorporates the latest and most innovative medical advances available.

Having performed a notable number of surgical and non-surgical procedures, he is one of the first choices for female patients not only in Bahrain, but in the region. His pioneering practice has led to the sophistication of women’s healthcare in Bahrain, most notably with the establishment of a first-of-its-kind, internationally accredited ‘Center of Excellence in Minimal Invasive Gynecology’ alongside his private practice,

Dr. Murat Women’s Clinic.

Dr. Murat’s clinic provides all kinds of diagnostic, surgical or conservative treatment options for a variety of health issues that affect women – fibroids, ovarian tumours and cysts, prolapse and female incontinence, treatment and early detection of precancerous conditions of the female genital tract, and breast and other gynaecological cancers. Besides carrying out successful laparoscopic procedures, Dr. Murat offers Integrative Oncology, which is the use of complementary, or integrative therapies along with conventional medicine to fight cancer. These therapies work together with standard treatment methods (surgery, chemotherapy or radiation) to treat the patient’s body, mind, and spirit. Integrative therapies can help with the goals of treatment, alleviate side effects, relieve distress, and may help with treatment results and adherence.

For more information, call 17 230-238 or follow @drmuratwomensclinic on Instagram.

We provide specialized Feminine Healthcare that supports you at every life stage with caring, personalized advice and the latest minimally invasive medical techniques in Gynecology.

We bring our patients greater comfort, quicker recovery times and innovative treatments for both every day and specialized feminine health conditions.

• Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology • Consultant Gynecological Oncology • Advanced Minimally Invasive Gynecology • Breast Cancer Specialist

+973 39539368 10 October 2021

www.drmurat-womensclinic.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanyinbahrain

EURO MOTORS -

The Best of Motoring David McGoldrick, Group General Manager at Euro Motors, talks about how the company has offered the best of German motoring to Bahrain.

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uro Motors is a well-known motoring company bringing the best of German automobile brands to Bahrain. Its holding company, Al Zayani Investments, and its predecessor, began its relationship with BMW in 1998.

David McGoldrick says: “We have developed a strong relationship with our German suppliers based on integrity, honesty, and long-term commitment to investment, whilst adhering to brand standards. This collaborative relationship allows Euro Motors to bring the full range of models and services to Bahrain.”

The organisation has adopted timely strategic changes to cope with the challenges presented by the pandemic. “Customers can

now view ‘New Cars Stock’ and reserve a model of choice online. Online payments to all departments can now be made 24 hours a day via the Euro Motors website,” he says.

Speaking about the company’s approach to pandemic precautions, Mr. McGoldrick says: “We fully adhere to government guidelines to keep our staff and customers safe. Extended workshop hours and development of flexible shift patterns are in place to reduce staff contact.” Euro Motors’ German brand portfolio are icons of the industry representing the best in German

design, technology and construction.

“Euro Motors is committed to its relationship with its German partners, and we will continue to work with them to bring the best of the German motor industry to Bahrain,” he concludes.

Call 17 750-750.

PEACE OF MIND IN ONE PACKAGE. BMW SERVICE & REPAIR INCLUSIVE, STANDARD FOR 5 YEARS WITH THE 8.

For more information, call 17 750 750 or visit Euro Motors showroom today.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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Exploring Germany

Our globe-trotting journalist, Kristian Harrison, sheds light on some of his favourite places to visit in Germany!

Boasting a vast variety of incredible scenery, Germany encompasses a little of everything. From the beautiful valleys of the Rhine and Mosel rivers to the majestic mountains of the Bavarian Alps, the awesome shorelines of Lake Constance, and the magnificent cities such as Berlin and Munich, there’s something nice to see at every turn.

Thanks to the superb network of highways (autobahns) and railways that crisscross this central European country, Germany’s cities and towns, big and small, are easy to access. Here’s a selection of a few places you might want to visit:

Koblenz & the Rhine Valley If you do partake in a river cruise down the Rhine, you will at some point find yourself docked in the beautiful city of Koblenz. However you arrive, though, be sure to make your first stop the magnificent Deutsches Eck, or German Corner. It’s here you’ll witness one of the most incredible natural phenomena in the country – the meeting of the Rhine and Mosel rivers, overlooked by the huge Memorial to German Unity, an impressive equestrian statue of King Wilhelm I. Watching these two mighty rivers meet is a sight to behold. If you time it right, you can even enjoy a summer evening classical music concert at the same time. Great views of the German Corner and the two rivers can also be enjoyed by taking the Koblenz cable car up to spectacular Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

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Berlin No matter where you want to go in Germany, it’s worth spending at least a few days in Berlin. The country’s capital is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic and vibrant cities in Europe, as popular for its superb dining experiences as it is for its shopping and entertainment.

Berlin is also considered one of Europe’s top cultural destinations, home to numerous excellent art galleries and museums just waiting to be explored. Some of the best of which are located on Museum Island, a mustsee destination that alone can take days to explore.

And after these attractions have closed, fun things to do at night include enjoying concerts by the renowned Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, perhaps taking in a performance by Berlin Opera, or simply wandering the alwaysinteresting avenues and boulevards in the Mitte District, where you’ll find famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the remains of the Berlin Wall. www.bahrainthismonth.com

germanyinbahrain Munich The capital of the state of Bavaria, the home of Oktoberfest and one of Germany’s largest cities, Munich owes much of its popularity as a tourism destination to its location on the outer edge of the beautiful Bavarian Alps.

Although not one of Germany’s oldest cities – its roots can be traced back to a settlement of monks pre-dating its official founding in 1158 – Munich has played a major role in shaping the country’s cultural and political make-up.

The city’s rapid growth saw it develop into an important centre for religion, arts and trade. These days, no visitor can fail to notice the city’s many surviving churches, including the iconic cathedral and Munich’s most recognised building, the Frauenkirche.

Another reason Munich has attained a place as one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations is its historic city centre. It’s a delight to explore on foot, especially if visiting the city’s large open square, the Marienplatz.

Here, you can explore delightful old architecture dating all the way back to medieval times, including the Old and New Town Halls.

Neuschwanstein The quaint old town of Füssen, situated between the Ammergau and Allgäu Alps and a popular alpine resort and winter sports centre, is a good base from which to explore nearby Neuschwanstein Castle, one of Europe’s most famous (and picturesque) royal castles.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria built this many-towered and battlementcovered fantasy fortress – the inspiration for Walt Disney’s famous theme park castles – from 1869-86. A variety of tour options are offered, including guided tours of the sumptuous interior taking in the Throne Room, the Singers’ Hall... and some of the country’s most spectacular views.

The Black Forest The beautiful Black Forest with its dark, densely-wooded hills is one of the most visited upland regions in all of Europe. Situated in the south-western corner of Germany and extending 160km from Pforzheim in the north to Waldshut on the High Rhine in the south, it’s a hiker’s heaven.

On the west side, it descends steeply to the Rhine, crossed by lush valleys, while on the east, it slopes more gently down to the upper Neckar and Danube valleys. Popular spots include Germany’s oldest ski area at Todtnau, the magnificent spa facilities of Baden-Baden, and the attractive resort of Bad Liebenzell.

Hohenzollern Castle Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most impressive and beautiful castles in Germany. Perched on the top of a hill, you can see its silhouette against the skyline as you approach from any direction.

One of the most intriguing things about the castle is the catacombs, or underground caves, where ammunition and gunpowder was stored. You can walk through this maze of caves and marvel at the effort it took to create them. The castle is also where the legend of the ‘white lady’ started – a ghost of a woman in white has been seen several times by various people. www.bahrainthismonth.com

October 2021 13

Bridging Cultures germanyinbahrain

Hans Lamprecht is a distinguished diplomat, with a globe-trotting career which culminated in a posting in Bahrain. Recently retired, he remains in the Kingdom after falling in love with its culture and people.

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“I come from Herrenberg, a small town south of Stuttgart,” says Hans, who is keen to remember exactly where he came from.

“My hometown is known for its tradition, closeness to nature and familyfriendliness. The city has a medieval architecture and is an insider tip for visitors from all over the world. It’s honestly a hidden gem in Germany.

“For me, Herrenberg is an anchor so I don’t forget my roots and Herrenberg doesn’t forget me either.”

For now, though, as he has been for a long time, Hans is far from home. In 1982, he found employment in the German Foreign Office and worked in the diplomatic service in Bonn, Marseille, New York, Saint Petersburg, Moscow, Atlanta, Nouakchott, Berlin, Pristina, Beijing, Miami, and finally the German Embassy in Manama. Arriving in 2014, Bahrain was Hans’ last post in his long and renowned career, before finally retiring in 2020.

He explained: “In Bahrain, I had the function of the head of the consular department (consul) and officer for press and culture. These activities brought me together with many people and authorities in Bahrain and connected me to the country in other ways. In my six years in the Kingdom there were various consular, cultural press events which gave me a diverse experience of both the German and Bahraini community here.”

Despite retiring, Hans still maintains strong relations with the German community in Bahrain, which he always found supportive to his work especially in the economic sector.

“Many actions could not be carried out without the backing of the German community and our Bahraini friends,” he said. “In 14 October 2021

particular, I would like to mention the Authority for Culture and the Isa Cultural Centre for their support.”

Hans continues to live in Bahrain after retirement and also married into a Bahraini family. He and his wife have two young daughters and continue to feel comfortable and happy in the Kingdom.

“What I have also learned is that Bahraini families are very different from German families,” he said. “You don’t just marry the daughter, you marry the whole family! You belong to it and you are not so distant. It wasn’t easy, but Bahraini friends helped me to overcome the hurdle and made us feel

comfortable. I would like to name one of them, Jaleel AlAnsari, who built the bridge. I hope that many bridges can still be built between Bahrain and Germany, the foundation is there.”

Ultimately, Hans only has positive things to say about Bahrain. “The people are open and friendly and have the right amount of pride in their country. In my opinion, Bahrain is a model country of intercultural and interreligious coexistence and since my arrival this has steadily developed further. Also, the area of environmental protection and reforestation throughout the Kingdom is one of the reasons why I decided to settle here after my retirement,” he concludes.

www.bahrainthismonth.com