FACT Bahrain June 2022

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10 22 34 New Pop-Up

How Are You Feeling?

Island Rides

CONTENTS

56 78 90

Culinary Spotlight

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Beautiful Barcelona

Art & Culture

THE AWARD-WINNING FRIDAY BRUNCH RETURNS Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay brings back the award-winning Friday Brunch.

The one-of-a-kind culinary experience returns with long-time favorite delights from the Wok, Tandoori, Carving Station, and assorted Sushi, along with new tastes like the Pinsa Romana, fresh Pasta, and Bao Buns.

A feast for the eyes and the palate, the splendid brunch accompanied by a live music performance is the best way to celebrate the weekend with loved ones, towards the hotel's lush gardens and Manama views.

As of 13 May, every Friday between 13:00-16:00 Per Person Price : BHD 35, including soft beverages, BHD 48, including the selected beverage package Reservations: 00973 17115500 diningreservations.bahrain@fourseasons.com fact magazine

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• THE EDITOR

Stay Healthy As The Mercury Soars

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“Health is a state of body, wellness is a state of being.”

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ummer’s here and I’d love to say the time is right for dancin’ in the streets but, let’s face it, with the current temperatures, you’d have to

FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • JUNE 2022 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 09 DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL (rami@fact-magazine.com) EDITOR LIZ O’REILLY (editorial@fact-magazine.com) DIGITAL MANAGER TANUSHREE MATHUR DIGITAL EDITOR SARA WADDAH

be a bit crazy.

Instead, we invite you on a round-the-world wellness trip with a look at treatments both ancient and modern, with origins ranging from

Greece to Hawaii and from China to Egypt. I want to try them all but, right now, I’m particularly hankering after the ice bath suggestion. I think that would be really cool – yep, intended.

In the Motoring section my lucky colleague got behind the wheel of the latest Porsche Panamera GTS, which, I can say with confidence, is one sexy beast; and this month’s Motoring News is extended as there is simply so much going on.

I actually got to go dining with a delightful trip to a new Greek brunch – I’m sure when you read it you’ll realise what a large chunk of my heart will forever reside in the Greek Islands. And my colleagues also got to sample some fine food and funky coffee artistry.

On the travel front, some of Team FACT headed to Barcelona, another of my favourite spots, with its non-stop party vibe coupled with some very traditional Spanish quirks. See what they thought of both the city and Mandarin Oriental Barcelona – hard life eh?

Amal chatted to artist Mahmood Mohamed and, I must confess, when she showed me pictures of his work, I was more than a little tempted. Let me know what you think.

As always, you’ll find our regular roundups of news from the fields of fashion and entertainment as well as highlights of happenings around the island in the Listen Up section.

SALES MANAGER MERIEM SAMOUL ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER SACHAN CHANDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY HONEY SHARMA CONTRIBUTORS AMAL SARHAN CECILIA LERMEN FERNANDA LANGHAMMER GARETH WOODS MELISSA NAZARETH PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@fact-magazine.com PRINTED BY UNION PRESS

There’s certainly plenty to read this month as you chill, chill, chill.

Liz O’Reilly Editor editorial@fact-magazine.com

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All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication.

However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 24 Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

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• CONNECT

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Combining all three editions of FACT (Bahrain, Dubai, Abu Dhabi), our Instagram account is a onestop shop for details on giveaways, competitions, local events, must-know happenings, behind-thescenes photos, and more. So much more.

Local talent, arts, culture, fashion, dining, and all the coolest events in the country – it’s all here alongside tech updates, travel guides, motoring news, and more.

Get your copy of FACT Bahrain in local supermarkets now!

FACEBOOK FACT Bahrain 15,696 followers

Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings, and everything we’re getting up to in preparation for the monthly magazine – all for our readers, of course!

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“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.” – Ernest Hemingway.

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 88,075 reads of the May issue If you need your FACT fix circa now, flick through our issues online on issuu.com for all the best features, interviews, profiles, and listings across food, art, culture, travel, technology, and more in Bahrain.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • HOW ARE YOU FEELING? P22 •

#FACTMAGAZINE #FACTMIDDLEEAST #FOODARTSCULTURETRAVEL #THEONLYWAYISFACT 8

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• FACT FINDS

GASTRONOMY BY THE BEACH The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s popular pop-up concept is back, this time as The Riviera with a fresh French-Italian menu.

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he Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain is rolling out the red carpet once again with the opening of its latest pop-up concept at the resort’s beachfront venue, Nikmati, named The Riviera. The new and exciting addition will take you on a gastronomic journey of the beauty, glamour and rich culinary traditions of the French and Italian Rivieras.

Continuing to elevate the dining experience at the five-star property, Yann Bernard Lejard, Director of Culinary and Food and Beverage, and Heros de Agostinis, Executive Sous Chef, have created a spectrum of flavours, combining the sophistication of French cuisine and the richness of Italian culinary tradition, resulting in an avant garde concept.

Experience The Riviera through an ensemble of curated dishes by Chef de Cuisine, Alexis Knecht, who specialises in extraordinary Provençale fare, focused on preserving the taste and texture of fresh ingredients. The menu is inspired by food traditions from Marseilles, in France, to La Spezia, in Italy, and features signature dishes including the Onion Tart ‘Pissaladiere’, Cod Croquettes with oven-roasted bell pepper 10

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relish, and Assortment Royal of Shrimps and Oysters, with shallot vinegar, mayonnaise and butter, to start with. Travel the coast with pizzas from San Remo, St. Tropez and Pampelonne before indulging in main courses such as Mariner’s Mussels served with French fries, Grilled Sea Bream Provençal-style or the famous Bouillabaisse Fish Soup with croutons, cheese and aioli. End the evening with the Cherry Clafoutis Cake or the Tropézienne Tart, paired with signature mocktails for a wellbalanced and delicious meal.

Set against the sparkling Arabian Gulf, The Riviera’s interior design includes acrylic panels to highlight the sweeping coastal views, with simple yet elegant decor. The restaurant adds touches of modernity with a minimalist centrepiece on each table and features an extended patio to enjoy a drink while taking in the stunning views. The pop-up is open daily except Wednesdays from 5 pm to 11 pm. ✤

GO: CALL 1758 6499 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

NEW LEVELS OF HOSPITALITY One of the country’s leading hotel operators is branching out with a new property in Georgia.

Gulf Hotels Group (GHG) has confirmed that it has signed a management agreement to operate the Gulf Aquamarine Hotel in Tbilisi, a four-star property which stands on the banks of Tbilisi Reservoir.

The strategic partnership will deliver international levels of hospitality to N&G, Dr Nodari Giorgadze’s Georgian operation, and will focus on increasing tourism from key Gulf countries into Georgia. GHG will provide their trademark Bahraini hospitality and renowned restaurant operations to the new venture.

The hotel offers 218 spacious apartment-style rooms and features an all-day dining restaurant and upmarket Lebanese restaurant, along with the adjacent water park, ‘Gino Paradise’, with its multiple pools and water slides, numerous food and beverage outlets and luxurious wellness centre and health facilities.

Gulf Aquamarine Hotel, with stunning views over Tbilisi Reservoir, is conveniently located a short 20-minute drive from the heart of the bustling capital or 15 minutes from Tbilisi International Airport.

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In addition to the wide range of leisure facilities available at the complex, guests can also enjoy a variety of water sports activities and nature walks.

GHG Chairman, Farouk Almoayyed, commented: “This hotel will set a solid foundation for the group’s global expansion plan; we’re here to build great experiences and what would hopefully be the beginning of promoting tourism and economic exchange between Bahrain and Georgia.”

Dr Nodari, Chairman of N&G Company, added: “This is my first venture with Gulf Hotels Group and I am confident that they will make a major contribution to the success of my Georgia project it is possibly the first of many business ventures between both groups.” ✤

GO: VISIT GULFHOTELSGROUP.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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NEW FRESH FLAVOURS N'ovo Restaurant is the latest offering by the Chef Susy Massetti which has opened at Al Liwan in Hamala.

Occupying an area of 182sq/m, N'ovo offers an exceptional menu including breakfast options, a variety of dishes and fresh salads, with ingredients selected from Roots & Shoots, an organic farm founded by the renowned chef.

Moreover, the restaurant offers an unmatched dining experience, embodying the journey of excellence in each dish, starting from carefully choosing the ingredients, to testing and preparing the food with the most creative flavours.

Chef Susy has more than 40 years of experience in the field of creative cooking. She grew up in Milan, Italy, within a family that specialised in cooking over several generations. From an early age, she learned cooking, appropriate seasoning and distinguished presentation of dishes. Chef Susy later settled in the GCC region and the Kingdom of Bahrain in particular, managing several restaurants and transferring her creative experiences in culinary arts to the Bahraini and Gulf cuisines.

With years of experience, real drive and passion for the culinary arts, and sincere sentiments for Bahrain, Chef Susy has brought the ingenuity of eating healthy and enjoyable meals with organic ingredients to the Kingdom. She also received several prestigious 14

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regional and international awards.

On the occasion, Ahmed Yusuf, CEO of Seef Properties, which owns Al Liwan, said: “We are pleased to announce the opening of N'ovo Restaurant by Chef Susy Massetti, who inspires people with her wonderful recipes and has a long history of creating delicious dishes. We are honoured to welcome her at Al Liwan to launch her unique restaurant.”

Chef Susy commented: “We are glad to open our new restaurant in Al Liwan, through which my team and I will strive to provide a unique dining experience in one of the most promising projects in the kingdom. We chose Al Liwan due to its attractive location and its green spaces that reflect our concept of the restaurant, which is based on organic food and healthy dishes. We promise our customers and their families, friends and loved ones an unforgettable dining experience at N'ovo Restaurant.” ✤

GO: CALL 1753 1853 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• LISTEN UP

NEW TRAVEL DESTINATIONS Gulf Air has officially launched its much-awaited new routes which will offer passengers greater access to a range of European destinations.

The Kingdom’s national carrier has expanded its network with flights to Manchester in the UK, Rome and Milan in Italy, and Nice in France. The new routes will be a great boost as the holiday season gets underway.

There was a celebration of the occasion at Bahrain International Airport, which was attended by government officials, ambassadors and diplomats, members of Gulf Air's executive management, guests from the airline's stakeholders and airport officials.

Gulf Air Acting Chief Executive Officer Captain Waleed AlAlawi welcomed guests of the national carrier and expressed his appreciation for their attendance to celebrate the opening of the airline’s latest destinations; stressing that these destinations represent a qualitative addition to tourism, business and trade exchange between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the European countries to which Gulf Air will soon start operating flights.

As well as taking souvenir photos, Gulf Air guests also enjoyed lunch in the airline's Falcon Gold Lounge at Bahrain International Airport, with menus containing well-known 16

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dishes from the new destinations.

Earlier this year, Gulf Air announced the launch of the aforementioned new destinations, in addition to resuming its operations to some of the preferred seasonal spots, including Mykonos and Santorini in Greece, Malaga in Spain, Sharm ElSheikh and Alexandria in Egypt, and Salalah in Oman.

In 2019 and in line with its strategy to become the customer’s airline of choice, Gulf Air announced its boutique business model concept, which would reinforce its focus on product and customer experience, and continues to showcase the implementation of its strategy successfully. Gulf Air differentiates itself as a boutique airline with its fleet modernisation strategy, new Falcon Gold class offering, upgraded economy class experience, new destinations and its presence in the new terminal at Bahrain International Airport. ✤

GO: CALL 1737 3737 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

HOLA!

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• LISTEN UP

TOWARDS A GREENER FUTURE Imerys Al Zayani Bahrain, Yellow Door Energy and Midal Solar have partnered to reduce carbon emissions through a 4.7-megawatt solar project.

Imerys, the world leader in mineral-based speciality solutions for industry, is partnering with Yellow Door Energy, the leading sustainable provider for businesses in the Middle East and Pakistan, to install more than 8,500 solar panels at its white fused alumina production plant in Bahrain, which is operated alongside Bahraini partner Al Zayani Industries.

Covering an area of 25,000sq/m, the solar plant will be connected to Imerys Al Zayani’s internal distribution network with a capacity of 4,677kWp, generating 7,600 megawatt-hours of clean electricity in the first year of operation. This will bring significant cost savings and reduce carbon emissions, in particular the carbon footprint of the white fused alumina produced in Bahrain, contributing to Bahrain’s Net Zero by 2060 Initiative.

Imerys aims to extract and transform minerals responsibly and sustainably over the long-term. Through its SustainAgility programme, the company is committed to reducing carbon emissions by 36% by 2030, in line with the Paris Agreement.

“Our systematic approach to combatting climate change permeates all aspects of our business, from the energy we buy and the processes we use, to our supply chain and products,” says Philippe Bourg, Imerys Refractory, Abrasives & Construction SVP. “This new project in Bahrain is a perfect example of how we act locally to make a difference globally.

We are looking forward to the completion of this solar plant with our partner Yellow Door Energy.”

Hamid Rashid Al Zayani, Founder & Partner of Al Zayani Investments, said: “For over 45 years, our diversified businesses 18

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have contributed to the growth and prosperity of Bahrain and beyond. Our mission is to invest in innovative and sustainable projects that enhance the local economy. This momentous solar project with Yellow Door Energy advances our mission towards a cleaner, more sustainable world.”

Rory McCarthy, CCO of Yellow Door Energy, said: “Yellow Door Energy is honoured to partner with Imerys Al Zayani and support its ambitious SustainAgility programme and carbon reduction targets. As our company continues to grow in the Kingdom of Bahrain, we look forward to helping businesses switch to clean energy, reduce their electricity costs and contribute to the Kingdom’s Net Zero by 2060 Initiative.”

Sunil Sharma, General Manager of Midal Solar, said construction is scheduled to start in the second half of this year and the solar plant is expected to be operational by 2023.

As the solar developer, Yellow Door Energy is responsible for financing, designing, building, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the solar plant for the duration of the agreement. By working with solar developers, leading businesses can reduce their energy costs without any upfront investment or operational risk, while maintaining focus on their core business and enjoying the benefits of clean energy. ✤

GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.YELLOWDOORENERGY.COM/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

GRAB YOUR SUNNIES Vida’s got a great line up of exciting activities for you this June.

Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain is setting the summer scene for you to enjoy a relaxing and stylish staycation with your friends and family by the beach.

The island’s new favourite chill spot is packed with exciting activities to look forward to this month, starting with the Global Wellness Day Weekend Retreat. The full-blown weekend package includes a wellness-themed Vida Friday Brunch on June 10, a beach bootcamp session and morning yoga session on June 11, and a healthy breakfast at the refreshing Origins Restaurant. With the organic, freshly sourced ingredients and a clean menu for the fitness freaks, Origins is constantly keeping track of your well-being to serve you healthier dishes from all around the world.

It's June, and we can’t forget Father’s Day. Head over to the beautiful shore of Marassi Al Bahrain, where Vida is celebrating the best dads in the Kingdom. If you’re still wondering what to prepare for your dear dad, Vida has created the perfect plan to save you from going through the hassle of deciding what to present as a gift. Spend special moments with your family at the fabulous beachside spot to celebrate Father’s Day, starting with the special Father’s Day Friday Brunch on June 17, where all dads get a 25% off brunch at Origins. Take it up a notch as the celebration continues with impressive Father’s Day dinners 20

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for two nights. Savour a specially curated dinner menu at Origins restaurant on June 18 and at The Bistro by Origins on June 19 with all fathers enjoying a complimentary main course on both nights!

Vida’s event list just got more exciting with their latest addition for the month, dubbed ‘Notti Italiane’, or ‘Italian Nights’. In honour of ‘Festa Della Repubblica’ or Italian National Day, Notti Italiane is starting from June 4 and continuing every Saturday, from 7pm onwards, at The Bistro by Origins restaurant to show off the glittering coast while you enjoy an amazing selection of Italian fine grapes and cuisine. The best part? All Italian grapes are served with an exclusive 10% off that you can enjoy for the rest of the night!

If you can’t wait to take some time off and go on a relaxing staycation or a mini beach holiday, Vida Bahrain has hooked you up with a tempting offer of an exclusive 30% off stays for a summer getaway throughout the season. Gather your loved ones for some quality time to chill at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain and enjoy complimentary upgrades, early check-ins as well as late check-outs with additional perks and privileges. ✤

GO: CALL 7748 8100 OR VISIT WWW.VIDAHOTELS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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HOW ARE YOU FEELING? If you’re full of energy and generally fab, we’re genuinely happy for you. But, if you feel the need for a pick-me-up, or are just in the mood for some healthy pampering that’s a bit different, you’re in luck. We’ve researched feel-good options, both ancient and modern, that will have you feeling your best in no time. Read on to learn more.

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ANCIENT TREATMENTS HAVE BEEN PASSED DOWN THROUGH GENERATIONS AND WE THINK THEY MIGHT JUST BE WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR. knee and back pain. Bahrain Wellness Resort and Hospital, said to be the Gulf’s first and largest centre for alternative medicine, offers cupping therapy. You can also explore places specialising in Chinese wellness practices for a session – the therapy was widely used in ancient Chinese treatments too.

EQUINE THERAPY If you have a pet or have even interacted with a stray, you will probably agree that animals have a certain energy that uplifts our spirits instantly. Equine therapy works on the healing aura of animals. Ancient Greeks are said to have used horses to treat incurable diseases. Hippocrates wrote about therapeutic riding or hippotherapy – his namesake – as early as 400 BC. It’s said to help with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, movement disorders and balance problems; lower blood pressure; decrease stress levels; reduce feelings of anger, tension, and anxiety; and improve social functions. Horses are an integral part of Arab history and tradition. Fares Al Fursan in Bahrain offers therapeutic horse riding and sessions as a treatment for kids with autism, partial cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome and other special needs cases. They also have sessions for adults.

HO′OPONOPONO You know how they say that when you hold a grudge or pentup anger, it can affect you physically? Well, it’s easy to overlook a psychosomatic condition or illness, without intending to.

Hoʻ′oponopono is a traditional Hawaiian forgiveness practice and can be a wonderful way to nip a condition caused by mental stress in the bud. It’s a useful practice, even if you’re not struggling with resentment or internal conflict. There are four easy steps, each having its own affirmation: the first step is repentance and you say sorry; the second is forgiveness and you say please forgive me; the third step is gratitude and you say thank you; and the last step is love and you say I love you. You can practice Hoʻ′oponopono to heal people other than yourself; a Hawaiian psychotherapist is said to have cured an entire ward of criminally insane patients, without ever meeting or spending time with them by using this technique.

HIJAMA Used by ancient Egyptians, Hijama or cupping therapy works on the principle of pulling bad toxins from the body. It increases blood and energy flow to areas that need healing by creating a vacuum using cups that are traditionally made of glass. Inducing relaxation, it’s great for blood circulation and to treat bloodrelated, rheumatoid and skin diseases. Cupping therapy can also work wonders for lung related ailments, such as allergies and asthma, headaches and migraines, high blood pressure and 24

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ACUPUNCTURE When you think of acupuncture, the image of Kung Fu Panda being stuck with needles by Mantis and Viper comes to mind – that’s on a lighter note; originating in China 5,000 years ago, this technique is practiced worldwide as preventative medicine and to treat various ailments. The therapy involves inserting ultra-thin needles into your body, which sounds painful but is ironically used for pain relief. When pricked, the acupuncture points stimulate the central nervous system causing bio chemical changes that balance energy flow. Acupuncture is typically used in combination with moxibustion (the burning of dried mugwort leaves) and cupping. Head to Bahrain Wellness Resort & Hospital for a session and while you’re there, don’t forget to explore the host of other Chinese and Indian therapies and treatments on offer.

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• COVER STORY from them and are generally used in combination with other wellness practices such as meditation and yoga. Most wellness centres and yoga studios use them but if you want to buy them, we recommend credible online retailers – the higher the quality, the more resonant the sound – music shops and stores that specialise in new-age products. A caveat: if you’re epileptic or pregnant or are someone who is prone to headaches, you may want to avoid singing bowls.

YOGA

ICE BATHS Most of you may have heard of cryotherapy, a treatment involving the use of freezing or near-freezing temperatures. Cold therapy is said to have originated in ancient Egypt around 2500BC to treat inflammations and injuries. Now, meet the father of cryotherapy so to speak – ice baths. They originated as far back 3500 to 5000BC and are said to have their roots in ancient Greece, though there’s evidence for the same in ancient Rome and other civilizations including Egypt and India. Ice baths offer mental and physical benefits such as soothing sore muscles, boosting metabolism and immunity, reducing stress and improving sleep.

While cryotherapy involves exposure to temperatures as low as -80 to -140 degrees Celsius, ice baths aren’t quite as arctic at -10 to -15 degrees Celsius. If you’re feeling worse for wear, then head to the Gulf Spa at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain for an ice bath. A cold shower or bath at home will prove equally effective.

SATTVIC DIET We’ve all heard of balanced diets. Now meet the sattvic diet, a form of treatment in Ayurveda, which advocates the consumption of seasonal foods, fruits, if one has no sugar problems, nuts, seeds, oils, ripe vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nonmeat-based proteins. Dairy products are recommended only if they’re sourced humanely by feeding and milking the animal appropriately. Following through with this one will help you lose weight, feel lighter and be more energetic and calmer. Most vegan and vegetarian foods can be categorised as sattvic. While there are many restaurants serving this, we recommend fresh homecooked meals. If you can’t give up your meat all together, try eating plant-based a few times a week to start with and you can build as you go along. Sattvic food offers benefits such as reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and other diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. Further, it reduces environmental impact.

TIBETAN SINGING BOWLS Using the healing benefits of sound therapy, Tibetan singing bowls have a history that dates back thousands of years. The rich, deep tone and vibrations produced when they’re played by running a wooden mallet on the rim or outer wall of the bowl induce relaxation, improve sleep and relieve pain among other good things. Traditionally made of metal, they’re typically placed on or around the body of the person seeking to benefit 26

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Every year on June 21 – International Yoga Day – social media is awash with images of people bent at weird angles and with limbs knotted like a pretzel. It makes you want to whip out a mat and do it yourself only to realise it’s not as easy as it looks.

However, we recommend giving it a go – what better time than this month – because yoga has many benefits such as relaxation, better stress management, higher energy levels, improved heart health, relief from back pain and good bone health. The best part: you don’t need expensive equipment – just a mat and yourself. Aerial yoga, which involves doing the postures while being suspended from the ceiling by a silk hammock or sling, originated in New York in the early 90s. If you prefer to mix things up a bit, try this style, which is a combination of yoga and the aerial arts. It’s suitable for both beginners and experts. Namaste Bahrain, the island’s first registered school of yoga, offers it all. Or you could start small – there are many videos available online for beginners.

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MODERN WELLNESS PRACTICES MAY SOMETIMES SEEM A BIT FAR-FETCHED. TRY THEM WITH AN OPEN MIND AND REAP THE BENEFITS. translates to acai bowl, is a Brazilian dessert from Pará and Amazonas, where the Ribeirinhos people prepare it regularly. In the last decade or so, it has become a popular breakfast item.

Come to think of it, what better way to start your day than with dessert! The main ingredient is frozen acai palm fruit, which has an earthy, creamy taste. It is pureed and typically topped with coconut chips, chia seeds, cut up fruit and nut butter. Rich in anti-oxidants, acai berries can reduce bad cholesterol in your blood. Additionally, they strengthen the immune system and are good for your heart muscles. RAAW cafe, Maybells Cafe and Reviive Cafe are some places that serve acai bowls. You can easily whip up one of these at home as well – acai berries and acai powder are available in stores.

IKIGAI

DOLCE FAR NIENTE

Ikigai refers to something that gives you a purpose in life or reason to live. A concept that’s long been part of Japanese culture, it gained mainstream popularity in the 1960s. Most recently, the concept returned to the forefront thanks to the book by the same name. Authored by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, it compiles their experiences interviewing the residents of Okinawa, a Japanese island with the highest percentage of 100-year-olds – practising this wellness attitude has allowed them to lead long, happy lives. The idea is to live purposefully, pursuing that which brings you a sense of fulfilment whether it’s related to your health, career or social life; just like the people of Okinawa who eat right, stay active, pursue some form of work – never retire – have hobbies and spend time with the community, friends and family. It’s really pretty straightforward if you ask us and boils down to dividing your time in a balanced manner. As they say, all work and no play…

If you’ve watched the Julia Roberts starrer Eat, Pray, Love, you would know of this therapy that many of us practice without even realising it. Dolce far niente translates to the sweetness of doing nothing and is a philosophy that’s ingrained into the Italian way of life. It encourages people to take the slow lane and live in the moment. Now, now. Don’t you start thinking that you can scroll away on your phone, lying down like a lizard on a rock the whole day. It’s best to stay away from digital and other distractions or regulate their usage. You need to actively relax in order to recharge and restore your mind and body.

THALASSOTHERAPY Where better to experience thalassotherapy than Bahrain – the land of two seas. Harnessing the healing properties of the ocean – Thalassa means ocean in Greek – this wellness practice stimulates endocrine functions, reduces stress and fatigue, alleviates pain, improves overall mental health and is great for your skin. Drive down to Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, the first place in the Kingdom to offer this service. You can choose from a range of specialised seawater treatments there.

You could also visit the many beaches on the island to soak in the goodness of the sea – Bahrain is home to beautiful public beaches such as Al Jazayer in Zallaq – or you could book a day at one of the hotels – Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, The Art Hotel & Resort, the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, all have private beaches.

ACAI BOWLS These Instagram-worthy, colourful bowls of delicious goodness are all the rage with fitness enthusiasts. Açaí na tigela, which 28

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ADAPTOGENS Offering a host of benefits from boosting immunity and reducing stress to maintaining hormonal balance and improving energy and memory, adaptogens are plants and roots that help keep your body in a balanced state. They could be store cupboard staples such as turmeric and ginger or others such as holy basil, American ginseng, Asian ginseng and ashwagandha. You can consume them by adding them to your food or drinks or even brewing them as teas. Adaptogens are also available as capsule supplements, tinctures or energy shots. Being herbal, they don’t usually have any side effects but it’s best to consult your doctor before taking them especially if you’re on other prescribed medications.

SIESTA Ever sat at your work desk after a hearty lunch wishing you could curl up under a blanket if only for a short while? We move siestas be legally enforced in Bahrain. Essentially a midday nap particularly after lunch, they are a simple way to unwind and energise for the remainder of the day. While many associate them with Spain, they are said to have actually originated in ancient Rome where they’re called riposo. Traditionally, siestas last for two hours or more but productivity experts recommend power naps, which are about 10 to 20 minutes long. Regardless of how long, we promise you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready for whatever comes next.

AFFIRMATIONS You must have come across the quote, “Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny”; attributed by some to Lao Tzu and others to Mahatma Gandhi, the quote accurately encompasses the idea of affirmations as a wellness therapy. They are carefully formatted statements that should be repeated to one’s self or written down frequently. They can also include chants or mantras, positive images and videos, and spiritual talks and lectures. Whether your existing state of mind is positive or negative, practising affirmations will bring about optimism, which will permeate all aspects of your life.

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The Steaks Are High!

Experience a culinary show and discover an array of splendid tantalizing meats with the all-new Steaks Night, every Thursday, at Teatro.

Enjoy an exquisite selection of prime meat cuts and indulge in the succulent porterhouse, prime rib, T-bone and ribeye grilled to perfection as per your ّ liking for BD 19 Net with unlimited soft beverages and mocktails and BD 29 net with unlimited selected beverages

Teatro. Where Eastern cooking meets Western cuisine

For bookings, please call +973 3360 5070 or email teatro.downtown@rotana.com fact magazine

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LAUGHTER YOGA Ever notice how you feel lighter after watching a comedy movie or after meeting friends and having a good laugh with them? Sigmund Freud called it psychic energy, which when released brings gratification. A meditative practice incorporating stretching, deep breathing and laughing, laughter yoga is the simplest way to boost your mood. The first laughter club was founded in 1995 by Dr Madan Kataria from Mumbai, India.

According to him, our body can’t differentiate between real and fake laughter. The benefits include reduced stress and, hence, a stronger immune system, high energy, relief from pain, heart and lung health, and stronger abs – what’s there to lose (pun intended)? The next time you’re feeling low, give yourself a prescription to laugh. We bet you won’t regret it. You could also look up Laugher Yoga.Bahrain on Instagram.

ACCESS BARS Founded only 30 years ago by Gary M. Douglas, this healing modality has fast gained a good reputation with wellness enthusiasts. Access consciousness involves gently touching 32 points on your head, which when stimulated cause the release of anything that is stopping you from living your life to the fullest. Having your bars run, as it’s often called, will allow you to experience deep relaxation and enhance your body’s ability to heal itself. Further, it doesn’t interfere with any conventional or alternative treatment or therapy. Rather, it has been found to enhance them. While you can get trained and run your own Access Bars, an experienced facilitator is recommended.

Insights Therapy in Bahrain offers this option. ✤ 32

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THE 2022 PORSCHE PANAMERA GTS Porsche persist in their quest for Panamera perfection.

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ithout a doubt, Porsche is one of the most sought-after and successful sports car manufacturers on the planet. Over the decades they have released scores of superbly designed, performance orientated vehicles, all of which have maintained an exceptional standard of luxury and craftmanship.

Never a brand to rest on its laurels, Porsche have recently released yet another update to their impressive Panamera range, this time in the form on the 2022 Panamera GTS. This month, the Fact team were fortunate enough to test drive this latest creation, compliments of Porsche Centre Bahrain.

Updated Exterior The Porsche Panamera GTS’s exterior has undergone a substantial upgrade for 2022. This four-door, mid- to full-sized luxury sedan now includes, as standard, the Sport Design Package with its visually appealing black highlights. Both the back and front ends now feature black trimmings and, when combined with the fastback roofline, bestow the vehicle with an alluring, athletic appearance.

We found the design of the exterior to be more streamlined in nature than ever before, with both the front and the rear boasting a more sculptured finish. A novel feature of this car is the LED headlights that swivel whilst navigating corners, to better illuminate the road ahead.

Other notable features include 20-inch aluminium wheels, a full sports exhaust system, along with the beautifully designed rear wing that folds both in and out when required; a first for a Porsche vehicle. An abundance of GTS logos located all around the body finish off the exterior in style.

Refined Interior The moment we entered the ergonomic cabin of the GTS, we fell in love all over again. We were greeted by ultra-comfy, 18way power-adjustable front seats, with lumbar support. The low-slung position of these seats adds to the already exciting feel of this sports sedan and increases one’s desire to get it out onto the roads.

Premium materials have been used throughout the interior, with every surface covering, trimming, and finish adding to the luxurious feel of the GTS. Trademark elements of anodised aluminium and black Alcantara, combined with Piano Black trim accents, all add to the sporty and lavish nature of this model’s interior.

The multifunction sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles is not only multi-adjustable but also provides the driver access to many of the vehicle’s functions through conveniently placed buttons. Additionally, we found the uniquely designed drive select lever to be both a functional and aesthetically appealing feature of the interior.

Space wise, the cabin offers plenty of head, shoulder and leg room. As one may expect from a sports sedan, the seating is a little tighter in the back, with space for only two people to sit comfortably. If extra legroom is what you’re after, purchasing the long-wheelbase GTS model would be your answer.

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The luggage compartment provides 495litres of space, an area that can be increased to 1,334litres with the 60/40 split rear seats folded flat. This feature, combined with the four-door design, make this sports vehicle practical for everyday use. An extensive range of interior extras are available upon request.

Superior Technology Tech wise, the 2022 Panamera GTS boasts an impressive setup, designed to merge car and driver. The system is equipped with a 12.3-inch main touchscreen and is run on Porsche software.

Two additional screens located on either side of the rev counter, haptic feedback touch sensitive buttons, along with a small rotary knob, further assist in the routine functionality of this Porsche. We found this setup in its entirety, to be both intuitive and easy to navigate.

The modern infotainment system includes Porsche Communication Management 6.0, featuring Bluetooth, an audio interface, as well as an excellent online navigation tool. Porsche Connect Plus is also included in the setup, providing wireless internet and a telephone module. A Porsche Vehicle Tracking System is equipped as standard.

This configuration is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and also includes Sirius XM radio, HD radio, wireless charging and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system. An array of additional tech features is available upon request.

Advanced Performance The 2022 Panamera GTS houses a four-litre V8, biturbo petrol engine, that produces a displacement of 3,996cm³. This highperformance motor generates 480hp and a maximum torque of 620Nm. The sound created by this beastly engine combined with the sports exhaust system, is enough to put a smile on the face of any sports car enthusiast.

In conjunction with the standard Sport Chrono Package, the latest model GTS can surge from 0-100km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds, and achieve a top speed of around 300km/h. The combination of the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive system, along with the eight-speed dual clutch gearbox, ensure there is

ISLAND RIDES •

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The sound created by this beastly engine combined with the sports exhaust system, is enough to put a smile on the face of any sports car enthusiast.”

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a constant supply of tractive force, guaranteeing one powerful yet smooth ride.

Greatly contributing to the first-class composition of the 2022 GTS are the sports chassis with three chamber air suspension, the highly effective braking system, along with the vehicle’s exceptional handling and cornering abilities. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute we spent putting this new Panamera through its paces and always felt in complete control of the driving experience.

Porsche have included a wide range of both standard and optional safety and performance features, to ensure the wellbeing of you and your loved ones. ✤

GO: CALL 1745 9911 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. 38

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NEW NOBILITY, NEW EXQUISITENESS, NEW FEELINGS +973 17 703703

hongqi-bahrain.com fact magazine *T&C Apply

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AN EXPERIENCE TO SAVOUR EURO MOTORS REVEALED THE NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT 2023 FOR THE FIRST TIME IN BAHRAIN. Euro Motors, the exclusive importer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom, has revealed the New Range Rover Sport.

Introducing a spectacular third generation luxury performance SUV, the Range Rover Sport mixes an imposing road presence with instinctive driving response, using the most advanced combination of chassis technologies ever fitted to a Land Rover.

The new Range Rover Sport is based on Land Rover’s advanced, flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA-Flex), providing the perfect foundations for superior dynamics and peerless refinement. Its lineup of powerful and efficient powertrains includes two six-cylinder extended range Electric Hybrid plugins, which provide a pure-electric driving range of up to 113km and CO2 emissions as low as 18g/km.

The new 530PS V8 Twin Turbo provides sports car performance, with 0-100km/h in as little as 4.5 seconds when Dynamic Launch is engaged. Customers can also choose from powerful and

efficient mild hybrid petrol and diesel Ingenium engines, while pure-electric propulsion will be available in 2024, as Land Rover continues its electrification journey.

The new Range Rover Sport’s reductive design extends to its all-new interior. Featuring a fresh cockpit-like interpretation of the trademark Range Rover Command Driving Position, the latest convenience and driver assistance technologies and the finest materials combine to ensure every drive is an experience to savour. ✤ GO: CALL 1746 0460, VISIT LANDROVERBAHRAIN.COM OR THE EURO MOTORS SHOWROOM IN SITRA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

NEW BRAND DEBUT

AL ZAYANI INVESTMENTS HAS OPENED ALOULA MOTORS, THE OFFICIAL AND EXCLUSIVE DEALERSHIP FOR GEELY IN BAHRAIN. Aloula Motors, the exclusive dealership for GEELY in the Kingdom, officially opened its doors to the public under the patronage of His Excellency Zayed Rashed Al Zayani, the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism.

The car company becomes the latest addition to the huge portfolio of vehicles under the umbrella of Al Zayani Investments, further enriching the offerings to the Bahrain public with one of the finest Chinese brands in the market.

GEELY cars are a high-end, technologically advanced brand of motor vehicles with the latest innovations in design, comfort, and safety features.

“We are very pleased to highlight another milestone in our automotive journey in Bahrain by bringing a new brand to the Kingdom and launching it with the very best of services and standards to the public. We are very confident to launch this showroom and deliver this brand with the same level of trust which goes hand in hand with the Al Zayani Investments name,” said Nawaf Khalid Al Zayani, Chairman of Al Zayani Investments. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTP://GLOBAL.GEELY.COM/ FOR MORE INFORMATION. 40

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FACELIFT FOR A FAVOURITE THE NEW EDITION OF THE BMW 3 SERIES IS WRITING ANOTHER CHAPTER IN THE MODEL RANGE’S WORLDWIDE SUCCESS STORY. Targeted updates to the front and rear-end design shine a brighter spotlight than ever on the sporting ability for which the BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring are renowned. The BMW Operating System 8 including the BMW Curved Display, brings extra modernity to the interior and all variants of the new model now come as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel and a newly designed selector lever.

With its clearly structured surfaces, dynamic lines and large air intakes, the front apron adds even greater emphasis to the sporty appearance. While a higher proportion of surfaces painted in the body colour and a clean-cut design lend the rear apron a particularly sophisticated look.

In the cockpit a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches merge together into a single fully-digital and high-resolution unit enabling the number of buttons and controls to be significantly

reduced in favour of touch and voice control.

Highly efficient internal combustion engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and electrification, in the form of plug-in hybrid and 48V mild hybrid technology, ensure both driving pleasure and fuel economy.

BMW iDrive with the latest generation of BMW Operating System 8, introduced in the new BMW 3 Series, offers powerful connectivity and data processing capabilities, plus intuitive interaction between the driver and vehicle.

And the My BMW App acts as a universal digital interface between the driver and vehicle and for controlling the charging process for the high-voltage battery of plug-in hybrid models. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.BMWGROUP.COM/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A SPORTSCAR FOR THE EVERYDAY

THE NEW BMW M4 CSL HAS BEEN REVEALED AS PART OF THE BRAND’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS BLENDING OLD-SCHOOL RACING PASSION WITH INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY. With its next-level power and lightweight design, two-seater configuration and model-specific chassis upgrades, the special edition BMW M4 CSL has track driving as its raison d’être. The genes it shares with its competition-spec sibling, the BMW M4 GT3, are also reflected in its performance attributes. CSL stands for ‘Competition, Sport, Lightweight’, referencing the critical role of weight-minimised design in achieving success in motor sport.

In test runs on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, the vehicle posted the fastest lap times ever for a series-produced BMW car, with acceleration figures of 3.7 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and 10.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 200 km/h.

The body is painted in the exclusive Frozen Brooklyn Grey metallic as standard with exposed carbon-fibre surfaces and red accents.

The optionally available BMW Laserlight headlights illuminate in yellow, bringing to mind the retro look of successful GT racing cars. The LED rear lights are equipped as standard with technology making its debut in a series-produced car.

The model-specific power unit is based on the same highrevving, six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology found in the BMW M4 GT3 racing car. Its substantial performance reserves enabled a major hike in power without 42

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concessions in terms of stability or durability.

Model-specific equipment features give the BMW M4 CSL a distinctive balance between sports car purism and everyday usability. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.BMWGROUP.COM/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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A NEW ICON IN ELECTRIC MOBILITY Mercedes-Benz has revealed the new EQS SUV to much acclaim.

With the luxury sedan EQS and the sporty executive sedan EQE, Mercedes-Benz entered a new, all-electric era. The EQS SUV, the third model series with this architecture developed for electric vehicles, will soon follow.

The SUV offers plenty of space, comfort and connectivity for up to seven passengers in its avant-garde, luxurious interior. Thanks to powerful electric motors, responsive 4MATIC all-wheel drive and an intelligent OFFROAD driving mode, the vehicle is also capable of tackling light terrain with ease.

The EQS SUV shares the long wheelbase (3,210mm) with the EQS Sedan but is over 20cm higher. The dimensions in detail are: 5,125 1,959 and 1,718 millimetres (length/width/height). The interior dimensions benefit from these generous SUV dimensions and from the advantages of the purpose design tailored to the electric platform. The second row of seats can be electrically adjusted as standard. Up to four golf bags fit in the boot. A third row of seats with two additional individual seats and extensive comfort features for all passengers is available as an option.

All EQS SUVs have an electric drive train (eATS) on the rear axle, and the versions with 4MATIC also have an eATS on the front axle. In the 4MATIC models, the Torque Shift function ensures intelligent, continuously variable distribution of drive torque between the rear and front electric motors and thus the use of the most efficient eATS in each case. The electric motors on the front and rear axles are permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM). The advantages of this design include high power density, high efficiency and high power constancy.

The chassis of the new EQS SUV has a four-link axle at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The 44

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AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment. The vehicle level can be raised by several centimetres. In addition to the DYNAMIC SELECT modes ECO, COMFORT, SPORT and INDIVIDUAL, the 4MATIC versions feature OFFROAD, a further mode for off-road driving.

Furthermore, rear-axle steering with a steering angle of up to 4.5 degrees is standard. It provides plenty of manoeuvrability in the city and agility over land. A version with a steering angle of up to 10 degrees is available as an option and also via an OTA update.

The principles of Integral Safety, in particular accident safety, apply regardless of the platform. Like all other Mercedes-Benz models, the EQS SUV therefore has a rigid passenger cell, special deformation zones and modern restraint systems.

With ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL Plus, Mercedes-Benz thinks holistically about air quality in the EQS SUV. The system is based on filtration, sensors, a display concept and air conditioning. The HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter has a very high filtration level to trap fine particles, microparticles, pollen and other substances entering with the outside air.

And, with intelligent software, MBUX fully adapts to its users and provides them with personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. The highlight of the interior is the MBUX Hyperscreen (special equipment).

This large, curved screen unit spans almost from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens sit under a common cover glass and merge visually. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.MERCEDES-BENZ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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THE LATEST SMARTWATCH HUAWEI raise the bar with the all singing, all dancing, new GT 3 Pro.

T

ech giants HUAWEI have released their latest flagship smartwatch; the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro. FACT magazine performed a detailed inspection of this new creation, a device we found to be HUAWEI’s best-looking and most functional smartwatch offering to date.

playback and reminders such as emails and social media messages, amongst many others.

This HUAWEI watch has been designed to support effortless compatibility and connectivity with other HUAWEI devices.

Once connected with a HUAWEI smartphone, we were able to control local applications via voice commands, both quickly and effectively.

Look & Feel Appearance wise, the GT 3 Pro is nothing short of striking. It is available in two variants, namely the Titanium Edition (black) and the Ceramic Edition (white). Both are constructed out of high-end materials, feature beautifully crafted moon phase compilations and feel solid in hand.

Titanium Edition The fresh and premium feel of the Titanium Edition is underscored by the luxury-grade polishing. It features a 1.43-inch AMOLED high-definition colour display and comes equipped with a titanium metal case, a sapphire glass lens and a ceramic black case.

Ceramic Edition The Ceramic Edition, on the other hand, exhibits a more feminine design, with its soft and elegant style. It features a 1.32-inch AMOLED HD colour display and is finished off with fine polishing techniques. Sporting gold and silver accents, this sparkling device flaunts an exclusive flower dial with various dynamic effects.

Battery Life The Titanium Edition comes with an extensive 14 days of battery life. This is reduced to seven days through intense usage. The Ceramic Edition comes with seven days of battery life, reduced to four days with heavy usage.

These two editions are both compatible with wireless fast charging support, meaning it took a mere 10 minutes of charging for us to obtain a full day of usage.

Health & Workouts In our opinion, one of the finest features of the GT 3 Pro is that it supports Electrocardiogram (ECG) data collection. This means that this watch can monitor and manage many of the body’s important functions.

These include heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, respiratory health, sleeping patterns, blood pressure and more. HUAWEI have also included more than 100 workout modes to select from.

Our Verdict

Features & Functionality

The new HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro is the new must-have device for all smartwatch enthusiasts. ✤

We found the functionality of the GT 3 Pro to have been greatly enhanced. It now supports Bluetooth calls, remote shutters, music

GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/BH/

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A NEW GENERATION OPPO have released the latest Reno smartphone to rave reviews.

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his month, the FACT team set its sights on the brand-new Reno7 Pro 5G, the latest generation smartphone in OPPO’s Reno Series.

Exterior Design

The Reno7 Pro 5G has inherited a lightweight and ultra-slim design from its Reno predecessors. At only 7.45mm thick and weighing in at about 180grams, we forgot we were holding it at times. Nonetheless, the device is a high-quality piece that feels solid in its makeup.

This eye-catching smartphone owes its striking appearance to the OPPO Glow process applied to the device’s exterior, along with the industry-first application of Laser Direct Imaging (LDI) technology. The result is two sparkling colour options, namely Startrails Blue and Starlight Black.

And 2.5D glass has been applied to both sides of the phone, providing a superior touch experience. This proved less prone to mistouch than curved screens. OPPO’s first use of coated ceramic trimmings and another industry-first, the Orbit Breathing Light, have helped to ensure a unique and premium exterior design.

Hardware & Performance The model showcases a 6.5-inch, 2400 x 1080px AMOLED display.

It has a maximum refresh rate of 90Hz and a touch-sampling rate of 180Hz. Overall, we were highly impressed by MediaTech’s Diversity 1200-MAX octa-core processor. It boasts best-in-class AI, camera and multimedia technology.

Designed to be the most power efficient and feature-filled 5G-integrated modem to date, it offers one of the fastest smartphone CPUs ever created. It provides power saving enhancements, faster average speeds and the first true dual 5G experience.

This potent processor is combined with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The result is a silky-smooth experience, even with several apps running simultaneously.

Additionally, high-quality audio, an X-Axis Linear Motor, Ultra Touch Response and the AI Frame Rate Stabiliser, provide an 48

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immersive gaming experience. In truth, we had to tear ourselves away to complete our full review.

Software The Reno7 Pro 5G is amongst the first OPPO smartphones to be installed with ColorOS 12 as standard. This software significantly improves both productivity and privacy. It also allows you to customise wallpapers, icons, the fingerprint scanner animation, the Always on Display and more.

Camera Marketed as a camera phone, the OPPO Reno7 Pro 5G features an impressive triple camera set-up at the back, including a 50-megapixel primary camera, an eight-megapixel ultra-wideangle lens and a two-megapixel macro sensor. There is also a 32-megapixel selfie camera located at the front.

Portrait mode is available on both the front and back cameras, offering superior edge detection and a solid bokeh effect. No matter the time of day or night, we captured pictures and videos that were both vivid and crystal clear.

The helpful camera app offers a range of modes and features, including various beauty filters and retouching options.

Battery Life A special mention must go to the 4500mAH battery of the Reno7 Pro 5G. It takes a mere 31 minutes to fully charge, with as little as five minutes of charge, providing enough power for us to enjoy four hours of continuous movie playback.

Finally, this smartphone refused to heat up, no matter how intensely we used it.

Verdict The Reno7 Pro 5G has surpassed previous generations in all areas of appearance and performance and now offers a truly unique, responsive and rewarding experience. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.OPPO.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

Mirai Restaurant & Lounge +973 17713113, +973 17783030

House 1, Road 3803, Block 338, Adliya, Bahrain www.mirai-restaurant.com

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GET YOUR GLOW ON Logitech’s Litra Glow offers users a handy brightening tool to attach to your monitor.

Logitech’s new Litra Glow light offers customers the chance to look a little brighter on those pesky zoom calls and video meetings. This attachable device is the fastest way to bring a premium lighting experience to your desktop.

With Logitech’s TrueSoft technology and innovative edgeless diffuser, the device shines a soft glow on your face to add some brightness and give you a professional look. Whether you are shooting a YouTube video, live streaming or attending an important meeting, Litra Glow ensures you get your glow on wherever you are. The frameless diffuser radiates a wide and soft light that flatters whoever it shines on and prevents any harsh shadows.

Once you clip your device onto your monitor and plug it into your laptop or computer, you can tilt and rotate it to your preference.

Using buttons on the back or using Logitech’s G Hub software, you can adjust both the lighting and colour temperatures. Plus, sensors on the device will adjust the brightness to adapt to different skin tones. You can also unscrew the light from the clip

and screw it onto your tripod or any other mount.

The Litra Glow light has been tested to make sure it is completely safe to use for long periods of time. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.LOGITECH.COM/EN-US/PRODUCTS/ LIGHTING/LITRA-GLOW.946-000001.HTML FOR MORE INFORMATION.

FOR THE RECORD Austrian company Pro-Ject has released a new E1 Turntable for all those old-fashioned vinyl buffs out there!

The E1 Turntable boasts high-quality sound for a limited budget.

The device’s Plug & Play design with pre-adjusted tracking force and anti-skating provides users with the ultimate settings for their turntable.

The device comes with a 33/45 RPM electronic speed switch (remember those long-players and singles from yesteryear?) and a stylish CNC-machined composite fibre plinth ensures there are no hollow spaces. The turntable and comes in gloss black, high gloss white and a walnut finish.

The lightweight and low friction 8.6-inch aluminium tonearm is optimised for the high quality Ortofon OM5e cartridge, bringing out its maximum potential. The new ABS Polymer main platter is strengthened with purpose-designed ridges in order to create an ideal, anti-resonant platform for your vinyl.

To protect your E1 from dust, users are also provided with a special elegant acrylic dustcover with adjustable hinges in the box. Boasting premium materials, stylish aesthetics and a rich, lively sound, the extensive development process has ensured that there has been no compromise in the sound performance despite such an affordable price.

All you have to do is lean back and enjoy your favourite beats. ✤ 50

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GO: VISIT HTTPS://WWW.PROJECT-AUDIO.COM/EN/ PRODUCT/E1/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Monsoon’s Signature Mocktails Enjoy the refreshing flavors of the Far East this summer at Monsoon.

For reservations call us on 17749222. monsoonbahrain

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APP-LICIOUS What’s on the smartphone agenda for June?

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Zombies, Run!

Rootd

Want to make running fun? This might be the app for you. Run through the streets of your neighbourhood while you’re chased by zombies. This exercise and game app combines the excitement of gaming and the positives of fitness. With the slogan ‘Run in the real world, Become a hero in another’, you are given specific missions and tasks as you navigate through the destruction of a zombie invasion. All you need to do is choose a story and set your mission. You can also play some background music and can adjust settings such as having zombies chase you to speed up. As you accomplish missions, you progress to another season. You can decide if you want your GPS tracked, your steps counted or your run timed, so you can view them later on as you accomplish mission after mission. Once you start your run, a script will be read, you’ll be faced with obstacles such as running from a helicopter crash or through a hoard of zombies.

Missions include defending a home, saving a child or collecting and delivering materials.

This app is for anyone suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. Activate the Rootd when you feel an attack coming on and find the comfort you need as soon as possible. Once you press the red button, you are asked whether you feel confident or don’t feel too good before you are guided through your attack. The app also offers information on the nature of anxiety and panic attacks to help users understand what happens to the body when you experience it and why the attacks might be happening to you. It also walks you through specific techniques and short-term lessons to help provide relief and practice calming exercises and breathing techniques. The award-winning and scientifically backed app additionally has long-term lessons to help users get to a place where they are panic attack free as they alter their relationship with anxiety.

So, if you are someone who grapples with anxiety, maybe give this app a try.

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M E I S E I

Chef Michael Sang-Kyu Lee’s award-winning Japanese delicacies come into their own during our warm summer months. Ceviche and sushi are customer favourites with freshly fused Japanese, Peruvian and Korean flavours. Ground floor dining awaits you or enjoy our perfect rooftop weather. For reservations or delivery by Meisei please call 17007770, from 12–3pm and 7–2pm.

meiseibahrain

meiseibahrain

www.meiseirestaurants.com

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• VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN

CULINARY CRAFTSMANSHIP Tony El Khoury – Oriental Speciality Chef at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay shares his culinary secrets.

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VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN •

You come from a family of chefs; how did they inspire you to choose a career in the kitchen?

To me, food is never only food. Food is heritage and it is a shared memory connecting people. Cooking is a form of art where you need to continuously develop your skills and perform true craftsmanship. Sharing a meal with friends or family can transport us to another time, place or memory. I started watching my beloved ones preparing the richest dishes at an early age, which inspired me to start helping them and learning from them. Then, this turned into a passion for me, and I decided to build my career by becoming a professional chef. I worked for restaurants; catering companies, where I catered for significant corporate events and hotels. They all had different dynamics, which taught me a lot about becoming the chef I am today.

What has been the greatest learning experience of your career so far?

One of my most significant learning points has been discovering that to be a successful chef, one needs to maintain a perfect balance of several aspects and improve many skills simultaneously. Authenticity, creativity, artistry, attention to detail, fast-paced decision-making, self-

motivation, organisational skills, culinary expertise and the list goes on.

What is your signature dish, how is it prepared and what do you believe makes it popular?

My signature dish, which can be the star of every table, is the mixed grill. It is the perfect example of showing that combining fresh ingredients with the correct technique can be an alltime favourite. The highest quality of meat, lamb, chicken and chops are marinated in the Lebanese style, charcoal-grilled and served on a mini grill with charcoal to keep the skewers hot. It is assorted with grilled vegetables, saffron rice, garlic sauce and fresh hot bread from our oven. It is a feast both on the eyes and the palate.

What are the three ingredients you always have in your kitchen? And why?

I always use the best and freshest ingredients and seasonal products; that is the first principle for delivering a flavourful and healthy dish. Spices like sweet pepper powder, cumin, white pepper, coriander powder and cinnamon are essential ingredients for my recipes. I also like using a couple of pine seeds on top to finish some of my dishes, as they add an earthy and nutty flavour. ✤ fact magazine

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AN ODYSSEY OF FLAVOUR Liz O’Reilly headed to the new Rigani to indulge in some outstanding Greek cuisine.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

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love Greece: the country, the people, the food and the vibe. It reminds me of youthful holidays spent island hopping, so the chance to try out a new Greek eatery is always very welcome.

However, Rigani, at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain, is not your regular restaurant. During the week, it’s virtual, offering takeaway and delivery. But a new ‘Just Greek’ by Rigani Brunch, which sees restaurant and poolside space serving up authentic Hellenic fair, has just been launched.

On arriving at the eatery, you encounter Greek-style paper frescos adorning the walls. But, to be honest, the décor is not what’s important. Here, it’s all about the food. The menu is designed by Food and Beverage Director Emmanouil Kyriakidis, Ambassador of Greek Gastronomy, who is there to greet you.

We were welcomed by Chef Rajesh Kumar, who is well versed in Greek culinary lore. And, though the brunch is buffet style, we were treated to traditional Greek service for our appetisers, which were brought to the table on the large, aged-wood trays, called Paramana, that you will spot in any Greek taverna.

What an abundance! Olives and bread, Tzatziki, Gigantes – baked lima beans in a perfectly balanced tomato sauce with onion, garlic and dill – Fava, Santorini yellow split peas, and so much more.

My dining companion was particularly impressed with the Taramosalata – a dipping sauce of fish roe, olive oil, lemon juice, onion and potatoes – which she very happily combined with the Keftedakia, crispy Greek meatballs blessed with a subtle combination of herbs to bring out the taste of the meat, which were utterly delicious.

For myself, the standouts would have to be Panjaria & Yiaourti, a delicately flavoured beetroot salad featuring yoghurt, green apple, olive oil, garlic and vinegar – a great combination of flavours that literally made my taste buds sit up and take notice – and Flogeres Tyri, which are breaded baklava phyllo rolls with fact magazine

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herbs and feta cheese. Biting into the crunchy outside to unleash the melting cheese within is just such a comforting feeling and the taste and texture combination was super satisfying.

Though I’ve noted our very favourites, everything on this first course section is worth trying and, since it is buffet style, there’s absolutely no reason not to. But, be warned, these delicious little nibbles, gorgeously displayed on a buffet counter stacked with goodness and piles of fresh veggies, can soon fill you up and you really, really must leave room for the mains.

Of course, we were served the obligatory mixed grill, lightly seasoned lamb chops alongside chicken and beef skewers – all perfectly cooked with that slightly charred outer leading to a soft, yielding centre.

But, for dramatic value, there’s no beating the Arni Gastras, Patates Ladorigani – that’s slow-cooked braised lamb shank with potatoes and oregano to you and me – we watched as the chef poured over a delicate lemony sauce and could hardly wait to tuck in to meat so delicately tender it literally melted in our mouths. The lamb is cooked with barely any seasoning allowing the sweet flavour of the flesh to stand out.

The Sofrito, beef escalope with garlic and parsley sauce and mashed potatoes, was a triumph – though I am, perhaps, a little biased as I hold the strong belief that you can never have enough garlic. The meat was perfectly cooked, not quite pink but not overdone, and the flesh had absorbed every ounce of flavour from the sauce without losing its own distinct taste.

The Youvetsi, a casserole of chicken drumsticks cooked with Manestra pasta, herbs, tomato sauce and Greek goat cheese was really like a taste of home for a philhellene (it means lover 58

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of Greece and all things Greek, in case you were wondering). The meat fell off the bone and the pasta, in its wonderful sauce, was just so satisfying and comforting.

The veggie option was Melitzanes Imam, stuffed eggplants (of which I have always been a huge fan) with tomato, onion, garlic and dill. Now, dill is an interesting herb and far too often seems confined to gracing salmon dishes, so I was delighted to detect its delicate yet distinctive flavour accompanying my beloved eggplants and this is a dish that’s perfect in both texture and taste that should be tried whether you’re vegetarian or not.

Last, but very definitely not least, came Garides Saganaki – something I had not tasted before since youthful me was, foolishly, not a fan of seafood. Oven-baked shrimps in a divine tomato and feta cheese sauce which had me fighting my dining companion for the last morsel – despite us both being full almost to bursting point. The shrimps were perfectly cooked and meaty and the sauce was a flood of delicate herby flavours complementing the sharp tang of the feta. Of all the dishes we tried, I would have to say this was my absolute favourite and a very good reason to return.

Sadly, despite our earlier longings as we passed the dessert station, we simply did not have space for anything else but the classic millefeuille stood out amongst so many other truly tempting options and guarantees that return visit. ✤

GO: CALL 1722 7777 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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LEBANESE, THE FLAVOURS OF HOME Melissa Nazareth spent an afternoon savouring modern takes on rustic dishes at Ô Liban, a newly opened dining hotspot.

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e headed to Block 338, arguably the Kingdom’s most happening food district, on a Wednesday afternoon. The heat was at its peak and so, we were relieved to know that the restaurant has its own parking facility, albeit small. Ô Liban is located inside one of the newly constructed villas in the area – you can see them from the highway. A white, doublestory villa with balconies, al fresco seating, foliage and natural light, it offers quite the Mediterranean ambience. The entrance has a wooden door carved with unique diamond and circle cutouts. The ground floor has a small coffee area, which leads to a bigger dining space. The equally spacious top floor has a main section and two smaller, enclosed ones for private dining. Giving a homely feel is Ô Liban’s uncrowded, verdant interior: simple sofas and comfortable cushioned chairs, concrete flooring, many indoor plants and scaffolding-style shelves stocked with books and other knick-knacks and 3D letters spelling Ô Liban Mon Amour, French for 'Oh Lebanon my love'. I later learned that Ô Liban is an exclamatory phrase used when you behold something beautiful.

There’s a bar in the loft and we decided to start our weekend slightly early with the Ô Liban special Bloody Mary, a potent mix but great for those who enjoy anise flavoured drinks. We also tried the Lychee mixed drink and the Pom Art – a beautiful, pink drink with crushed black berries and garnished with a rosemary sprig.

The food menu is extensive, featuring typical Lebanese selections but with 'The flavours of home'. We started off with

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• DINING DELIGHT Kale Tabbouleh – a clever spin on the traditional parsley salad.

Creamy yet light and refreshing, it prepared our guts for the feast that followed. The juicy tomatoes and ruby red pomegranate seeds offered a contrast of colours, textures and flavours against the kale. Next came the Avocado Hummus, which was silken smooth enhanced by the velvety texture of mashed avocados; it tasted like guacamole, perfect with the tortilla shards garnishing the dish. We ate this with flat bread.

Our hot mezze was Soujuk – spicy, fermented sausages, served on a plate of tangy tomato gravy. They had an intense flavour from the aromatics such as garlic and onion and spices such as pepper. These dinky delights were tempting to poke with my fork and I lost count of how many I ate. The next dish was Fateh Warak Enab – rice stuffed vine leaves sat on a bed of crushed flat bread. Cut into bite sized pieces and mixed with crispy fried potato cubelets, all blanketed in a yoghurt sauce, they were just the right balance of tangy and tart.

After this, we tried Lahm B Ajine, Arabic for meat in dough.

Sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, mint leaves and beetroot hummus droplets, this meaty thin crust pizza, so to speak, was light and airy. So was its vegetarian counterpart, Labneh Makdouss, which was served with refreshing toppings such as creamy labneh, pungent rocket leaves, sweet cherry tomato halves and salty, chopped up makdouss – oil-cured, stuffed aubergines – which tasted and looked like black olive slices.

This was followed by Kibbeh Bl Laban or meat croquettes in a thick buttermilk sauce. Kibbeh are usually made as spheres or

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ellipses but Ô Liban plated this dish as you would a steak tartare; an island in the middle of an ocean of spiced, aromatic laban. It had the perfect crunchy shell stuffed with juicy minced meat, and the cold, tangy laban complemented the hot kibbeh well.

Next, we tucked into Shawarma Rice; the beef was succulent and the toasted pine nuts offered a nice crunch. The dish was packed with flavour but not too overpowering. We also had Vermicelli Rice, which was slightly mild for me as I like a bit of spice but I can understand how it would serve as the perfect backdrop to a meat-heavy meal. My favourite dish was Chicken Mousakhan Rice; garnished with tart barberries, toasted pine nuts and fried onions, the rice was beautifully pink and had a bite to it.

Our Levantine lunch was topped off with decadent desserts; immaculately plated, the knefe came dusted with pistachio crumble and rose petals. A thick layer of cheese topped with fried vermicelli, all soaked in sugar syrup, it was juicy – yes, that’s the word. Um Ali Croissant was a warm hug on a plate with the buttery croissant, milk and raisins. It too was garnished with rose petals and nut crumble in addition to coconut shavings. We also tried the Ô Liban special – cookie bits with pistachio ice cream and nuts, mounted with cotton candy.

Our final verdict – Ô Liban! ✤

GO: CALL 1710 1710 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

THE FLAVOURS OF HOME

PLAZA 338 - ADLIYA - 1710 1710 - @OLIBAN_BH

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FRIENDLY FOAM FIGURES Melissa Nazareth sips on Bahrain’s first 3D coffee at VIII Cafe while savouring a spot of breakfast.

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NEW IN TOWN •

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he island has been swept by the coffee culture wave over the last few years. Numerous cafés have sprouted across the Kingdom, each vying to offer a unique, unprecedented experience; VIII Cafe is the first to serve 3D coffee – cute little teddy bears made of milk foam floating on your cup. We headed to the branch at District 1 Mall – there’s one more at Askar – to see what it’s all about.

The café’s simple interior has been cleverly spruced up with indoor plants, repurposed pale wood fittings, white faux leather seating and aesthetic décor pieces such as a big wall clock with Roman numerals and books about coffee. There’s ample natural lighting, which the woodwork seemed to reflect, making the space look brighter. The coffee station is on the ground floor. An open-riser staircase leads to the loft. Climbing up the stairs, we were met with wall foliage against which hung a lit logo of the café – VIII – the Instagram backdrop, I felt.

Soon after we settled down, the breakfast dishes started flowing.

First, came Scrambled Eggs & Cheese Croissant. Nothing fancy, just a basic dish cooked to perfection. The scrambled eggs were fluffy and creamy and the melted cheese took them to another level. The croissant was flaky, buttery and oh so light and airy.

Next, we tried Eggs Florentine – another hit at our table. The eggs were poached with spinach and creamy cheese, served with a side of toast. Our eggs were well done but you can go for soft or runny if you prefer – this applies to all the egg-based items. I personally love the combination of spinach and cheese and found the Florentine to be one of those comfort breakfasts you want to tuck into. The sharp cheese taste against the earthy spinach made for a good flavour mix. Further, it offered a great contrast of textures when smeared against the crunchy toast. fact magazine

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After this, we ate Avocado Toast, which is sourdough bread topped with avocado mix and poached eggs, drizzled with tahini sauce. Sadly, the tahini sauce didn’t do it for me. However, the velvety avocado mash spread on a sturdy slice of sourdough brought the best of both worlds together. Add to that some hearty eggs and you have a breakfast classic! We recommend you ask for runny eggs specifically for this dish.

Having had our fill of the savoury items, we then moved on to the sugar fix. The Banoffee comes under All Day Breakfast on the menu. Giving French toast vibes, it’s a big slice of toast soaked in homemade dulce de leche topped with banana slices and pecans. The caramel flavours of the dulce de leche are subtle yet potent and pair well with the sweet banana and nutty pecans.

The nuts also offer a bite to every fork full.

We also tried some desserts including the regular cheesecake and San Sebastian Cheesecake. The former was a basic cheesecake with vanilla cream cheese and a biscuit crust with a side of raspberry coulis. Like they say, you can’t improve on a classic. Offering a delicate balance of flavours – tart, sweet, creamy and tangy – it stood out among the desserts for me. San Sebastian Cheesecake was similar to a crustless cheesecake, which I thought felt quite a bit like bread pudding texture-wise.

Our coffees poured in (pun intended) around this time. First, we tried 3D ART. It was fun jiggling the foam bears in our cups and we were impressed by Barista, Hadi Sucipto’s craftsmanship; we almost didn’t want to destroy it by drinking it. Same with Coffee Painting, which had a beautiful sunset painted onto the coffee.

Both, the 3D figures and paintings are made using milk foam and food colour, so, it doesn’t affect the taste. Having a common espresso base that’s machine brewed using VIII Cafe’s house 66

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blend of different beans, they can be ordered as a cappuccino, latte or caramel. The house blend is made with speciality coffee beans from countries including Brazil, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya and Indonesia.

We also tried a V60 variety, Mood; V60 is the brewing technique so named because the funnel is V-shaped with angles of 60 degrees.

A 100% pure Komodo Dragon Coffee – a fine low-acid type with hints of fresh tobacco, cocoa and floral notes – it was refreshing and gave us a much-needed caffeine boost. Also, it was interesting to watch Hadi brew it in front of us. I’m no coffee connoisseur but if you are, then you can choose from a wide range including Sunrise, Dusk, Moonlight, Morning Blessings, Summer Breeze and others, all made with specific speciality coffee beans. ✤

GO: CALL 1766 5550 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

FT.

DJ MIO

FT.

DOLLY

66311282, 39245028 howdy_bh

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THE PRAWN ULTIMATUM Sa6al, Bahrain’s latest seafood restaurant, spoiled FACT's Sara Waddah for choice with the bountiful treasures of the ocean.

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ON THE MENU •

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eafood is a widely loved cuisine worldwide and particularly here in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Sa6al, located right at the start of Block 338, the Kingdom’s popular dining district in Adliya, just officially opened its doors to diners, making it one of just a few of its kind in the area.

With a menu that's filled with fan favourites, the restaurant serves near-infinite choices of delicious dishes made using a variety of bounty from the sea. We were ecstatic to eat here and thankful that we brought our appetites along.

Located on the ground floor of the building, below Buffalo Wings & Rings, the restaurant’s interior features seafood-themed décor such as fishy puns, SpongeBob posters and crabby jokes.

Ready to dive right in, we started our seafood excursion with the Asian Shrimp and Honey Mustard salads, which, to our surprise, were really the perfect way to begin because they further whetted our appetites. A fiesta of colours and freshness, the Asian Shrimp salad was loaded with fresh shrimp and yummy vegetables, garnished with fried onion slivers and drizzled with a mildly spicy sweet chilli sauce. The sweetness of the shrimp worked beautifully against the gentle heat of the sauce.

Moreover, the vegetables and fried onions added a nice crunch, giving the salad a robust texture. The Honey Mustard salad was a vegetarian one made with a mix of greens, corn, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, all topped with chip sticks (crispy bits) and dressed with a sweet and pungent honey mustard sauce. It complemented our pescatarian and meaty feast well.

Next, we moved to the starters, which included the most mouthwatering, bite-sized ribeye steak pieces with jumbo steamed fact magazine

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• ON THE MENU

shrimps on a skewer, accompanied by some barbecue sauce.

This surf and turf appetiser combined the best of both worlds: juicy, tender steak with bouncy, sweet shrimp. The Lollipop Steak and Shrimp was another fun land-and-sea appetiser that my group and I happily tucked into.

Even before we started eating at Sa6al, we were able to tell that both seafood and meat were going to be prepared to the highest standards. There was something about the aromas wafting around the place and the proactive service that gave us that vibe.

And we were right! Having had a fantastic experience so far, we weren’t expecting any less from the rest of the dishes.

My fellow diners and I combed through the well put-together menu, trying to decide what to eat next. Being mightily impressed by our appetisers, we decided to order a main course from the Land & Sea section, the Salmon & Steak; the Fish Taco from the Mexican page; and the infamous Boil Bucket.

Within a few minutes, our main courses started arriving at the table. We were impressed by the presentation and didn't know 70

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where to start – a bit of everything was in order.

The Mexican tacos were spot on, combining the crunchiness of the fried fish fillet and the freshness of the diced tomatoes and salsa. The Canadian Rock Lobster from the Salmon and Steak dish was definitely the show stopper; served with garlic butter, rice, potatoes and a magnificent USDA Prime Black Angus Ribeye, it was a combo that we surely won't forget about anytime soon. The garlic butter kept the proteins moist and juicy while also adding a sea of flavour (pun intended).

The Boil Bucket was an entire experience in itself. The servers eagerly helped us clear and spread some waxed paper on our table and then spilt more than a kilo of shrimp, crabs, clams and mussels from their popular lemon pepper Boil Bucket. We were ready to get our hands dirty and dived straight in. Sat before this huge seafood feast, we relished each of the gems with the zingy and sharp lemon pepper sauce. All had taken on the gravy’s rich essence; however, we tasted the flesh as we ate – packed with flavour but not overpowering. For that extra vibe, we made sure to add corn and potatoes as well as some heat. It was phenomenal!

Sa6al offers high-quality seafood at extremely affordable prices, in a really fun atmosphere. And, health-conscious diners can easily find the calorie count for each of the dishes from the menu.

All this topped off with incredible service and a family-friendly feeling and our afternoon at Sa6al was nothing short of fantastic and truly welcoming. ✤

GO: CALL 1710 4994 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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DIVE INTO THIS MONTH’S DELIGHTS! Enjoy this month’s selection of special offers, including Father’s Day celebrations, Mexican tapas, National Iced Tea Day, Philippines Independence Day and much more!

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN La Mosaique and Harvesters Dads go free at the Father’s Day Buffet Lunch at La Mosaique and Harvesters. Each year the culinary team strives to offer the very best brunch buffet in town and this year they are creating a wonderful menu for this special occasion. This is a Dadapproved feast you don't want to miss! The offer runs on June 17 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD17 for food only, an additional BD4 for soft beverages, and an additional BD17 for selected beverages, with dads dining for free.

GO: Call 3924 2391 or 3992 0163 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Spices An Indian Street Food Festival is coming to Spices! Enjoy a week of family-friendly entertainment, food and drinks, the perfect event for any curry connoisseurs out there! The offer runs from June 12 to 17, from 7pm to 11pm, and prices start at BD3 net.

GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3898 7167 for more information or to make a reservation.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Al Waha Restaurant Here’s to the heroes in your life! On this special day, treat your 72

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dad to a Father’s Day lunch or dinner buffet at Al Waha. The offer runs on June 18 and 19 from 12.30pm to 3pm for lunch and 7pm to 10.30pm for dinner and includes a 50% discount for all the amazing dads out there!

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Margarita Mexicana Indulge in some casual dining fun with Chef Ruben’s Mexican Tapas Platter serving nachos con queso, jalapenos, beef quesadilla, chicken taquitos topped with crema fresca and tomatillo salsa. All that and a pitcher of a special traditional Mexican mixed drinks. The offer runs from June 5 to 30, excluding Saturdays, from 3pm to 12am, and is priced at BD12.5.

GO: Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Baharat Restaurant Enjoy a Surf & Turf Night with your choice of prime beef cuts and fresh seafood, flame-grilled to order. Garnish the grill experience with fresh salads, starters and locally-grown grilled vegetables.

End your dinner with one of the largest selections of desserts.

The offer runs every Thursday night from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD24 net, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD34 net inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3320 4175 for more information or to make a reservation.

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LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Butcher and Buns Lounge Celebrate Veggie Burger Day and rejoice in the positive impact of plant-based burgers on the planet. The offer runs on June 5 and includes a 50% discount on the menu.

GO: Call 1717 1000 or WhatsApp 3320 4175 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Silk’s Restaurant Bite into your favourite dishes and get ready to welcome the weekend! Satisfy your taste buds with the finest quality and ultra-flavourful steaks, sizzling skillets and flame-grilled meats all in one place, with live DJ entertainment. The offer runs on Thursdays from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD26+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

GO: Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Gallery Lobby Lounge & Silk’s Restaurant Get some fun time with your friends and family and spoil yourself with one of the best quality brunches in Bahrain. Enjoy happy moments with exquisite culinary delights and a great atmosphere with live DJ entertainment. The offer runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD33+++ per person, inclusive of unlimited selected beverages.

GO: Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS BY WYNDHAM Ya Hala Rooftop Lounge Enjoy the Unlimited BBQ Night at Ya Hala and savour all things barbecued and grilled to perfection, including a wide variety of meat, chicken, seafood and vegetables, with side dishes and desserts available. The offer runs every Thursday from 7.30pm to 11pm and is priced at BD14 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD25 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1360 0111 or email fnb@ramada-manama-amwaj. com for more information or to make a reservation.

RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS BY WYNDHAM Citrus All Day Dining On the occasion of the 124th Philippines Independence Day, Citrus will be hosting a three-day celebration where guests can experience Pinoy culture with delicious food and a lively atmosphere. The offer runs from June 10 to June 12 and is priced at BD9 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD18 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1360 0111 or email fnb@ramada-manama-amwaj. com for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Links For a real home-away-from-home feeling, enjoy the perennial Saturday Grand Roast followed by all the sporting action on the big screens. Enjoy meats from a selection of beef, chicken or lamb, and dance away to the music from a live DJ. The offer runs on June 18 from 12.30pm to 3pm, and is priced at BD16 net for adults, BD8 net for children aged six to 11, and no charge for children under six.

GO: Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Links Enjoy Curry Fusion night with an array of mouth-watering curry dishes that will leave a mesmerising imprint, leaving your taste buds tingling in delight! You’ll get unlimited Thai, Indian, Mediterranean, and Indonesian curries while enjoying the stunning view of the Championship golf course with live cooking stations. The offer runs on June 16, 6pm onwards, and is priced at BD17 for adults, BD8 for children under 12, and no charge for children under six.

GO: Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Fiamma Restaurant Pizza alone is not enough to make your night worthwhile. Hop into Fiamma and indulge in a special Giro Pizza Menu personally handcrafted by Head Chef Marco Terranova. The Giro Pizza & Hops offer runs every Saturday and Sunday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD25 net per person, inclusive of a special pizza menu and unlimited hops.

GO: Call 1763 6363 or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more details or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Maison Sushi Have a magnifique dinner at Maison Sushi as they introduce Teishoku Night, a traditional meal where items such as a combo grill and sushi platter are served artistically, presented on a wooden plank amidst a panoramic view of the Arabian Gulf. The offer runs daily except Thursday and Friday, from 7pm to 11pm, and is priced at BD30 per person, inclusive of a special set menu.

GO: Call 1763 6363 or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more details or to make a reservation.

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Authentic Persian Cuisine

17715454 homabahrain Homa - Janabiya

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• DINING DEALS

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Furn Bakery & Rotunda The traditions for the National Donut Day are simple: eat as many donuts as you can, in as many varieties and flavours as possible. Whoever eats the most donuts in three minutes gets a winner T-shirt and a floating donut ring. The offer runs on June 3 from 1pm to 1.30pm and is free of charge.

GO: Call 1717 1441 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Salero Enjoy La Noche de San Juan ‘The Night of Fire’ for pinchitos, Spanish drinks, and a traditional ‘fire-jumping’ ritual that is meant to strengthen the sun or burn your problems away and bring good luck. The offer runs on June 23, from 7pm to 10pm, and is priced at BD15 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1717 1300, WhatsApp 3350 2110 or visit @ salerobahrain for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN Origins Restaurant In honour of the unprecedented anniversary marking 70 years of The Queen’s amazing reign, Vida Bahrain is feeling jubilant!

Gather friends and family to commemorate the UK monarch’s years of service and relish a majestic selection of special dishes accompanied with selected beverages. Drink a toast and enjoy live entertainment and endless sea views, offering you the perfect means to salute this historical milestone. The offer runs on June 3 from 1pm to 4pm, and is priced at BD28 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD34 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN The Bistro by Origins In honour of Festa della Repubblica, Italian National Day, they’re hosting Vida Bahrain’s very first Notti Italiane exclusively to celebrate Italian cuisine and its special Mediterranean connection. Indulge in a special curated set menu, designed

by Chef Nicolas, offering Italian specialities sure to ignite your appetite. Top it off with a 10% off authentic Italian grapes for a magnificent experience to wrap up the weekend. The offer runs every Saturday throughout June from 7pm to 11pm and is priced à la carte.

GO: Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA Jashan For all Indian food lovers, Jashan’s Weekend Brunch is back with a scrumptious authentic Indian all-you-can-eat brunch that will surely tantalise your tastebuds. The offer runs every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 3pm and is priced at BD10 net per person.

GO: Call 6639 8787 or email jashan@wyndhamgardenmanama. com for more information or to make a reservation.

WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA Via Brasil Enjoy all-you-can-eat meat selections including picanha, fraldinha, tenderloin with parmesan crust, rib-eye, striploin, garlic chicken wings, lamb chops and more, grilled to perfection and complemented with fresh choices from the salad bar along with mouth-watering desserts while you admire the city skyline from the rooftop restaurant. The offer runs daily, except Mondays, from 6.30pm to 11.30pm, and is priced at BD25 net per person, inclusive of unlimited churrascaria and soft beverages.

GO: Call 6639 8787 or email jashan@wyndhamgardenmanama. com for more information or to make a reservation.

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Experience the

L

avish Buffet & ive Music

AT LANTERNS BUDAIYA FOR BD 5.9+

Every Friday 12pm - 4pm & 7pm - 11pm *T&C apply

For Reservation: 17590591

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LUXURY, SERVICE AND LOCATION An unforgettable two days and nights in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities at Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona.

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TRAVEL •

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• TRAVEL

B

arcelona! Everyone has heard the name of this famous European city, but until you have walked the streets, sampled the cuisine and spent time with the spirited locals, you have no idea how wonderful this cosmopolitan city truly is.

This month, Team FACT were invited, by the worldrenowned Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, to spend two unforgettable days and nights at their highly sought-after location in Barcelona. Of course, we gratefully accepted and, within a few short days, found ourselves touching down on the north-eastern coast of Spain, at Barcelona International Airport, ready to start our Catalonian adventure.

Our Arrival As we made our way to the hotel, we were soon captivated by the city’s mind-blowing architecture, along with the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. By the time we pulled up at the Mandarin Oriental, we knew we had to spend a considerable amount of our time exploring this enthralling metropolis.

The moment our ride stopped at the main entrance, we were greeted by friendly and attentive staff, ready to assist us in any way possible. After a hassle-free check in, I soon found myself in my Mandarin Junior Suite, smiling from ear-to-ear at what was to be my home base for the next two days and nights.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is a five-star, contemporary hotel located in the heart of the city’s famous Passeig de Gràcia. It contains 120 rooms and suites, along with several 80

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dining spots, meeting facilities, beautiful gardens and an award-wining spa. With an array of even grander suites than my own available, it’s no surprise that the rich and famous frequent this luxurious location.

The first feature I noticed about my junior suite, aside from the spacious nature of the room, was the welcoming arrangement left for me on the table. An assortment of nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruit juices, bottled waters and desserts, along with a fresh fruit platter, was a beautiful touch and a great way to start my stay.

Custom-made woven rugs, high-quality leather furniture and light-wood floors, all adorn the Junior Suites, further adding to the deluxe experience. A terrace overlooking the hotel’s Mimosa Garden was yet another great feature, along with the glass-enclosed bathroom, containing a rain-forest, walk-in shower. A 24-hour butler service is on offer for all suites, ensuring your every desire is immediately attended to.

Fine Dining Over the course of our stay, we were fortunate enough to experience some of the outstanding culinary locations housed within the hotel.

Moments It didn’t take us long to work out why Moments is Mandarin Oriental’s premium restaurant. This awardwining location is managed by multi-Michelin-Star winner, Carme Ruscalleda, and boasts a menu second to none. The fresh and healthy cuisine, inspired by Catalan culinary culture, is creatively presented and tastes sublime. The beautiful décor helps to create a magical atmosphere that further adds to this already outstanding culinary experience.

Blanc This all-day-dining venue proved to be an exceptional restaurant, featuring striking décor and a superb menu.

The à la carte breakfasts, with their vast spread of fresh fruits, organic yoghurts, bagels, fresh pastries, wide range of eggs and cereals, along with a selection of Catalan traditional breakfast options, provided us with the perfect start to our days.

Terrat If you’re a fan of Peruvian food, visit Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona’s Terrat rooftop terrace which is on the ninth floor, with 360º panoramic views. It offers guests a wide variety of beverages and a delicious selection of Peruvian delights as well as recipes from international star Chef Gastón Acurio. Treats include ceviches, tiraditos and a wide range of cocktails available until late night. It’s the perfect choice for enjoying the gentle Barcelona breeze and spectacular views during the season.

The hotel's other excellent venues include Bankere's Bar, with a ceiling covered in old safety deposit boxes; and Mimosa Garden, an exclusive al fresco venue filled with lavender and sunshine. fact magazine

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• TRAVEL

Spa & Wellness During our stay at Mandarin Oriental, we were excited to experience the hotel’s celebrated spa. With seven treatment rooms, a 12-meter spa lap pool, an Oriental steam room, a relaxation area, a fully-equipped fitness centre and a spa boutique, this venue is well-equipped to say the least.

I was lucky enough to undergo the Exclusive Energising Men’s Facial Treatment. Specifically designed to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, this treatment left my skin feeling soft yet toned, and I couldn’t remember the last time my complexion looked so radiant. For great feeling youthful skin, we highly recommend the amazing facial treatments

by Valmont offered at this facility.

Barcelona Central Thanks to Mandarin Oriental’s central location, the best of Barcelona was literally on our doorstep, and we took full advantage of our free time to explore as much of this magnificent area as we possibly could over two days.

Starting at the Plaça Catalunya, Barcelona’s main square, we strolled the avant-garde district of Passeig de Gràcia, feeling spoilt for choice with all that was on offer. Architecture being our primary fascination, we made sure to take in all of the exceptional structures around us. ‘Modernist’ buildings, luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants, all adorn this tourist-friendly area, and we thoroughly enjoyed the sociable locals we encountered along the way.

A little further out and the bold architecture becomes even more extraordinary. Our favourite structures included the fantastical themed Casa Batlló, with its pastel-coloured

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“

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is a five-star, contemporary hotel located in the heart of the city’s famous Passeig de Gràcia.”

mosaic front and a roof shaped like a dragon’s tail, along with La Pedrera, with its stunning internal spiral staircase, and 360-degree view from the roof. Barcelona is without a doubt, a vibrant and beautiful city.

All Good Things Come to an End All too soon, it was time to say goodbye to Barcelona and Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Having thoroughly enjoyed our stay, we relived our experiences on the six-and-a-half-hour flight home. The luxurious rooms, the friendly hotel staff, the delicious cuisine and beautiful city sites, all made for an unforgettable adventure. However, we did decide we would have to return, as we had only touched the surface of what the magical city of Barcelona has to offer. ✤

GO: VISIT MANDARINORIENTAL.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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SUSTAINABLE AND STYLISH

Tommy Jeans’ new drop, Denim Progressed, features summery staples and head-turning classics, all helping contribute to a greener future.

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FASHION FOCUS •

F

ashion enthusiasts around the world are becoming more environmentally conscious. While many are boycotting fast-fashion brands – those that produce cheap, trendy and disposable clothing in bulk and at fast speeds to meet growing demand – all together, many others are switching to benevolent brands that use recycled fabric and repurposed materials and practice green production and operations.

Denim Progressed is the sustainable capsule by Tommy Jeans whose product line consists of jeans wear and footwear for men and women as well as accessories and fragrances. With every new drop of Denim Progressed, Tommy Jeans by Tommy Hilfiger strives to reduce its environmental impact while delivering stylish, more sustainable denim.

This collection consists of stylish silhouettes crafted from 100% recycled denim that’s made by repurposing leftover fabric and using renewable materials that are easier to recycle at the end of their life span – circular denim, which can be reused instead of ending up in a landfill. You can choose from everyday wardrobe staples – cargo shorts, full-length cargo pants, jeans, shirts and jackets – in bright summery whites, classic jet black and everything in between: a range of shades produced with unique washes and rinses – processes that give the fabric its appearance such as light, dark, worn out, tie-dyed and distressed.

With summer pretty much upon us, these dazzling brights and their contrasting darks are just what you need to take your wardrobe through the season, whether you’re vacationing or staying on our sunny shores. ✤

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• FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS •

GO: VISIT WWW.TOMMY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN The Andy Warhol Diaries Need to Know:

A 2022 documentary series following the memoirs of American artist Andy Warhol edited by his friend Pat Hackett. It’s a six-part documentary that looks at Warhol behind the theatrics and the persona he portrayed. Using Warhol's personal diary entries we get to see a different side of him. This is a highly immersive documentary as the story is told in part in the artist’s AI-generated voice.

Directors: Andrew Rossi

Why Is It Worth Watching?

Andy Warhol is considered one of the most innovative artists of his time, playing a significant role in bringing pop art and modern art into the public eye. He was an important visual artist as his works spanned paintings, prints and movies. His works remain iconic to this day, such as the Campbell soup cans. Many of his pieces are displayed on mugs, T-shirts, tote bags, stickers and more.

If you’ve ever wondered about the man behind the art, The Andy Warhol Diaries is for you. The documentary format is mesmerising, with a visually stunning intro and the perfect soundtrack tying it all together. It is also highly informative as we get to hear from those who knew him as well as Warhol's intimate thoughts. And, even though there is a significant focus on Warhol's personal life and unique personality, the documentary also presents a comprehensive view of his art, showing how he developed his style and experimented through the years. The artist’s own opinions on his work are particularly interesting, as he often prioritised money and fame over artistic integrity. This is a must-watch for artists as well as history nerds or just anyone who wants to see a well-produced and entertaining documentary.

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“

"The documentary format is mesmerising, with a visually stunning intro and the perfect soundtrack tying it all together.

Senior Year Need to Know:

A 2022 comedy movie starring Rebel Wilson as the lead, the film follows Stephanie Conway, a 17-year-old high school cheerleader who is on the path to achieving her dream life. However, after a cheerleading accident, she is left in a coma for 20 years and must work out how to continue her life when she wakes up. Even though the story sounds dark and sad, the movie is lighthearted and comedic.

Director: Alex Hardcastle Cast: Rebel Wilson, Angourie Rice, Mary Holland, Zoë Chao, Chris Parnell, Sam Richardson

Why Is It Worth Watching?

This is a hilarious movie, and you'll get much more than a couple of laughs from it. Rebel Wilson is funny in the role of 37-year-old Stephanie, as she wakes up after 20 years with the mentality of a 17-year-old. The jokes are simple and sometimes nonsensical, but it's clear that the film doesn't take itself very seriously. After losing 20 years, Stephanie is set on getting her 'perfect life' back.

Her main goals are getting popular, joining the cheer squad again and winning prom queen while trying to reconnect with her once best friends.

However, she finds much has changed as her y2k fashion is no longer in, and technology becomes a struggle. The plot is simplistic, and so are the characters and the random musical numbers are slightly off-putting, but overall, the movie is pretty entertaining. A good film to watch to de-stress and have a few good giggles.

ENTERTAINMENT •

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

FICTION

All My Rage

POP FUNK/POP ROCK

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

Harry’s House

By Harry Styles

C’mon You Know

By Liam Gallagher

The third studio album by the English singer and songwriter, featuring 13 tracks, it has received widespread critical acclaim. It’s supported by two singles – As It Was – a TikTok sensation – and Late Night Talking – the first song on the LP to be written. The name of the album is inspired by Japanese music and song artist, Haruomi Hosono’s Hosono’s House, which released in the 1970s. Incidentally, Harry kicks things off with Music For A Sushi Restaurant, a number evoking subtle, sensual imagery, perfect for that night out All the songs have easy-to-sing lyrics that you will relate to. They touch upon the shades of love, a major theme – pursuing someone, as in Satellite and Cinema; the pain of separation voiced on Love Of My Life and Daylight. Conversational lyrics bring out the vulnerability and fragility of emotions in this one.

The sound of the album has 1970s influences with the use of synths and horns; you can also pick up R&B. It features John Mayer on lead guitar on Cinema and Daydreaming. While there are groovy numbers that will have you snapping your fingers and swaying your head from side to side, the album also offers tracks such as Boyfriends and Keep Driving the perfect background score to a long drive – which put you in a relaxed mood. An interesting factoid about Boyfriends is that it's the only song that wasn’t written in 2020 and 2021; Harry began writing it during the final week of recording on his second studio album Fine Line which was released in 2019.

The third solo studio album by English musician Liam Gallagher. In it, he is said to have moved away from his usual tough self, exploring softer realms with both the music and song writing, making it a compelling listen. With most music enthusiasts calling it generally wellreceived, Liam himself believes it to be “odd” – “80% peculiar but 20% classic”.

The album opens with More Power – a children’s choir – portraying Liam at his most tender and vulnerable. The song writers touch upon themes such as healing as on Sweet Children; unrealised dreams on It Was Not Meant To Be; freedom from illusions and lies found on the musical banger I’m Free, all offering a hopeful and optimistic energy. Throughout the album, you will find the mood swaying; while the piano-driven Too Good For Giving Up tugs at your heart strings, Better Days is guaranteed to put a spring in your step and, though its lyrics may sound vague to some, they will resonate with manyothers – Liam is not one to slap a definitive meaning on the words he sings rather, he prefers that listeners interpret and takeaway what they want to.

The sound of the album swings from intense as on Don’t Go Halfway to soft on Moscow Rules, Too Good For Giving Up and The World Is In Need; sometimes, you find the energy picking up in the same song such as on Diamonds In The Dark. Soulfully strung together, the album has punk, rock and psychedelic pop vibes. The perfect summer album with its concert feel, C’mon You Know is a musical entertainer all the way.

By Sabaa Tahir Misbah and Toufiq are newly-weds when their lives are struck by a tragic happenstance, forcing them to emigrate to the US for a new start. Fastforward a couple of decades, Salahudin (Sal), their teenage son, is best friends with Noor, who also immigrated from Pakistan with her family.

A fight between the two puts a pause on their friendship, but that’s before Sal’s ailing mother’s health deteriorates and his father’s alcoholic tendencies worsen. Sal is forced to take on the family motel business, and Noor works part-time at her dominating and hubristic uncle’s liquor store while secretly applying to colleges to escape him and her hometown, Juniper, forever. As the two grapple with their hardships, they are faced with a difficult choice. A beautiful novel with entangling themes of forgiveness, friendship and young love.

EPISTOLARY MEMOIR

Read Dangerously: The Subversive Power of Literature in Troubled Times

By Azar Nafisi

The New York Times bestselling author returns with a fierce argumentative work. This collection of letters to her deceased father, whom she always considered her personal refuge, starts in the midst of the 2016 election in the US and ends with the Coronavirus pandemic. In this collection of thoughts and writings, Azar deep dives into her past and present and, targeting topics of social and political upheaval, argues that literature and the power of imagination are the cornerstones of change and resistance. She takes inspiration from literary greats spanning the centuries, from Plato to legendary Black feminists Hurston and Morrison, to contemporary classics Baldwin and Atwood. A brave and touching book, sure to stir the quietest of hearts. fact magazine

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• ARTS & CULTURE

ARAB ARTISTRY AT ITS BEST A Bahraini artist shines a light on the beauty and strength of the Arab woman and the importance of artistic practice in society.

M

ahmood Mohamed, a budding local artist, brings attention to the charm of Bahraini culture and the beauty of Bahrain’s women in his work.

Using a variety of materials, such as spray paints, acrylics, screen painting, stencils and collage, as well as computer programmes such as Abode Photoshop and Procreate, Mahmood works to create beautiful portraits of traditional Arab women.

He says: “In each series, I used different materials as a base, such as cardboard and carpet, which gives a unique texture and results in a great mix of contemporary urban arts with Arabic ancient traditional patterns and culture.”

Mahmood started painting from the early age of 10 after being inspired by “enchanting European street art”. He went on to participate in school events and competitions and thanks his art teachers who “always supported and motivated me”.

He describes his artistic process, saying: “My technique is characterised by three main phases. The first includes styles such as graffiti and abstract designs for the underlayer.

The second includes hand-drawings and stencils as well as spray-painted faces. And the third uppermost layer is adding cultural and urban patterns. In each work, I make certain that I add an element of Arab culture, whether it is calligraphy or Arabic dress patterns.

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“My goal with my portraits is to focus on the woman’s personality through her facial expressions. The traditional textile patterns and body language add to the rich diversity of emotions and personalities.”

He also recounts a precious memory with his mother: “To this day, I remember my mum getting me my first set of art supplies. It was her nurturing support that encouraged me to begin painting.” His wife, whom he calls his ‘creative muse,’ has been equally supportive.

One such portrait is a piece from ‘Traditional Faces Series II’ which is very dear to Mahmood. He explains: “I love the beauty and maze in her eyes as she holds the traditional Arabic abaya with her teeth, an image that translates the strength of the Bahraini woman as she takes up her responsibilities in society. I also love the beauty of the blend of contemporary and traditional Arabic patterns, signifying the relationship between Arabic culture and modern art.

“In retrospect, every moment spent painting has been precious to me, an endearing path of learning and joy. Art is a universe with endless possibilities, and I cannot wait to see where my imagination takes me next.”

He describes his proudest moment while exhibiting his work in Germany: “I wanted to show the world the beauty of Arab women and our traditional customs. Art and culture have always coexisted to me, the richness of one

ARTS & CULTURE •

paving the evolution of the other. Arab culture is enriched with scintillating colours and beautiful patterns that have always inspired me.”

Mahmood cites Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein as influences on his work and appreciates how they “reinterpret popular imagery yet retain the true essence of the subject”—something he tries to carry in his own pieces.

“I believe that at the end of the day we all live for art—whether you are an artist or a spectator,” he says.

“Every single possession we yearn for has art embedded in some form. Art has always been an integral form of communication transcending borders. Today more than ever, art can be a medium to unite the divided and to propagate peace. I always wanted to showcase the beauty of Arabic women translated into urban and contemporary arts.”

Mahmood has exhibited his work in various exhibitions in Bahrain and abroad, namely Last Oil Well, the exhibition at Malja Red Bull Space in Amwaj, and The Art Space, as well as at EV Gallery in New York, ParARTgon in Hamburg, and NFT BAZL, a boutique online NFT marketplace.

He is currently working on a collection for his first solo exhibition and refining his traditional patterns, studying more about Arabic and Islamic calligraphy and Arabic gold designs to apply a greater focus on traditional Bahraini culture in his work.

Though his dream of becoming a full-time artist has not yet become a reality, it remains on his radar.

Collecting his thoughts, he says: “As Pablo Picasso famously said: ‘Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”✤

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• FOR HER

NEW &

ROSSANO FERRETTI

Satin Glow Booster This leave-in spray uses bio-certified vegan ingredients, including chestnut and aloe vera, to combat frizz, hydrate and reduce moisture loss for your hair. Improving softness and strength on the driest strands and containing over 96% naturally-derived ingredients, you can boost your styling results in the knowledge that your hair is in the best hands possible. Detangle, reduce breakage and colour loss, whilst adding a velvet-like sheen to the hair. Styling will fast become a breeze! Suitable for all hair types, the Satin Glow Booster has an evocative scent containing nectarine, patchouli and jasmine to create a calming and soothing aroma.

LUSH Vénitien Henna Twenty years after the invention of the Lush Henna Brick, the brand has reformulated the cult product range to give greater coverage and the best hair dye experience!

The new and improved Henna Bricks guarantee refreshed shades that offer shinier and healthier results with richer tones and, for the first time, LUSH is also introducing a shine-enhancing strawberry blonde for fair hair. The new Vénitien Henna is infused with Iranian henna, chamomile, rhubarb and cassia to give warm, sun-kissed tones to naturally blonde, light or white hair. The new and enhanced formulas are infused with pigmented herbs and floras which have improved the coverage the brick gives, resulting in bolder results. Now with less cocoa butter, the bricks are easier to use and the colour attaches to the hair effortlessly.

NATURALS BY WATSONS Prestige Rose Hand Cream The Naturals by Watsons range from Watsons is a natural and toxin-free beauty brand. This Prestige Rose Hand Cream is for softening and moisturising the skin and contains organic rose water which is rich in tannins to nourish, smooth and moisturise the skin, as well as natural rose oil, which has an aromatherapy scent to calm and relax the mind and body.

RMS BEAUTY UnCoverup Cream Foundation A rich, nourishing, cream foundation with a luminous, dewy finish. This concentrated formula contains RMS’s Beauty Oil for rich hydration that helps smooth the appearance of fine lines, and silica that boosts coverage of dark spots and redness. Formulated with wild-crafted buriti oil, organic coconut oil and the RMS signature adaptogenic herbal blend, this power-packed cream foundation evens skin tone with seamless, super-hydrating high impact coverage.

SKIN PROUD Icicle Cooling Eye Serum Stick Skin Proud’s Icicle Cooling Eye Serum Stick contains hyaluronic acid and refreshes and refines the eye area so that it looks tighter and brighter. The formula features a hyaluronic acid complex that helps to lock in moisture. With its unique balm-like consistency, you can use this serum stick on bare skin or over your make-up to give your look an instant refresh and long-lasting hydration.

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FOR HIM •

NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

CARBON THEORY THE BODY SHOP

Facial Cleansing Wash If you have used every remedy to get rid of your

Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate

breakouts and still have no luck, try this Carbon

The Body Shop has just released its newest

Theory Facial Cleansing Wash. It has a blend of

collection yet, the Edelweiss Collection. This

organic tea tree oil, organic activated charcoal,

Daily Serum Concentrate is a fast-absorbing,

and shea butter that is dermatologically proven to

non-comedogenic serum enriched with edelweiss

prevent breakouts and keep skin clean, healthy, and

extract, peptides, hyaluronic acid and CFT moringa

hydrated.

seed oil. The product provides 24 hours of hydration and protects the skin against indoor and outdoor pollution.

SKANDINAVISK Travel-size Eau de Toilette Skandinavisk has launched its new travel sized Eau de Toilette collection featuring four 30ml bottles.

The sprays each represent different chapters, known as Kapitels, in the story of the brand’s 20-year journey, and resonate with different adventures. Kapitel 1, called ‘Boreal Calm’, evokes the halls of towering trees and canopies of the deepest green with scents of fir. Kapitel 4, dubbed ‘Island Solitude’, goes back to the olden days of sailing on Scandinavian waters with no destination in mind and landing on a pebbly shore, with scents

FILORGA

of marine floral. Kapitel 12, named ‘Freedom to

Skin-Unify Illuminating Even Skin Tone Cream

Roam’, reflects on the ancient Scandinavian law

Filorga's new Skin-Unify Illuminating Even Skin

AATHER

to roam the land provided only footsteps are left

Tone Cream is a daily morning and evening

The Wanderer Returns Candle

behind, with scents of green aroma. The last, Kapitel

cream that provides a smooth application that

Designed in London and hand poured in France,

17, dubbed ‘Remote Refrain’, represents the last

nourishes and hydrates your skin inside-out.

The Wanderer Returns by new candle brand Aather

chapter inspired by a return trip to Hardangerfjord

Combining a powerful formula with a pleasant

is a fresh and rejuvenating blend of black fig and

during spring in 2021 and the orchard-lined fruit

sensorial experience, it prevents and reduces the

berries, anchored with cedarwood to help set the

trail that lines the shore, with scents of delicate

appearance of dark spots and instantly illuminates

scene for socialising in your space and providing a

flowers and subtle honey.

the complexion. Suitable for all skin types.

calming atmosphere. fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

#NEWSEASONBRUNCH #THEARTHOTEL&RESORT 94

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#FIRSTSUMMERBEACHPARTY #VIDABEACHRESORT #MARASSIALBAHRAIN

SOCIETY •

#GRANDOPENING #DAIKINSOLUTIONPLAZA

#GRANDOPENING #NEWDIALYSISCENTER #KIMSHEALTHMEDICALCENTER fact magazine

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Lost in Translation!

For Pox Sake!

Creativity or Lack Thereof?

If you’re active on Instagram, odds are you must have seen the post by a certain furniture company in the region that had us in fits of giggles over an honest oversight by their creative head.

But bear in mind, creative jobs are vastly underrated, lemme tell you. If you’ve worked as a creative executive – in this case copywriter – you’ve, at some point, been told ‘All you do is write’, most likely by someone who isn’t in the business of writing. What they fail to understand is that talking and writing are different – speaking well doesn’t guarantee you can write well.

It’s routine these days to log on to a news site or open the newspapers and find a new life-threatening disease discovered in some part of the world; most recently, Monkey Pox. Most of us went bonkers when a case was found in the UAE. Living in a time driven by social media makes it worse; you’re bombarded with links – mostly forwards with click-bait headlines – and, if you’re subscribed to one of those WhatsApp groups, then, God help you!

Come to think of it, isn’t that panic what most faux news agencies want? One would suspect, that’s what the health

The trailer of the Bollywood remake of the 1990s Hollywood comedydrama Forest Gump has garnered a mixed reaction. While some are excited to watch Lal Singh Chaddha, which is set to release on August 11, many others can’t help but see it as a contrived and repetitive attempt to filmmaking.

The overall plot and major scenes and dialogues in the Bollywood version seem to remain unchanged.

However, a lot has been adapted to suit the Indian context. The

Again, in our part of the world, like in many others, a lot is lost in translation.

Case in point – the copywriter at said furniture company meant well when they conceptualised the social media post, inviting followers to state their preference from among the three pieces of furniture on display. The caption is where things got a little wobbly – “How do you like your stools?”. Hmm. Bucket, distressed metal, pub style, stationery bar… or, more likely, ‘none of your business’.

mafia want too, for various reasons. Like we haven’t had (still having) enough with Covid already. And what are we doing?

We’re giving in to their tactics by sharing news without verifying it, participating in discussions and debates without knowing the facts, spreading rumours and fear…

Well, the latest on Monkey Pox says that it constitutes a ‘moderate risk’ to public health. So, calm down for pox sake, will you!

catchphrase “My mom always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get,” has been replaced by a sentence, the contextual translation of which is, “Mother says, life is like a golgappa, no matter how many you eat, they fill your stomach but not your desire to have just one more.” (Golgappa is a popular piquant Indian street food.)

Tastefully done? Well, we’ll have to wait for the film to decide.

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ISLAND INSIDER

Ahmed Ghazwan Marketing Manager at Euro Motors BMW/MINI/Rolls-Royce You are a recent arrival in your role. Please tell us what this entails?

In automotive, one of the primary roles is to ensure the success of the marketing activities of the brands in the market. To ensure that the overall plan is executed and to develop and direct the marketing efforts towards positioning the value, enhancing the performance of these premium brands and developing the brand’s image and unique value proposition compared to competitors. It is more than executing marketing campaigns; it is also about managing and developing the presence of the brands in the market and working with various departments to drive market growth. Strong analytical skills, business savvy and the ability to multitask are all essential.

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What would you say is the best part of your job and why?

Being in this position has provided me with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the current and future products, especially with the direction towards EV. This has also resulted in increasing my ability to think creatively and innovatively with an increased level of professional judgement and discretion that stems from experience in the field.

I need analytical skills to forecast and identify trends and challenges and have gained increased familiarity with the latest trends, technologies and methodologies in the automotive sector. Moreover, being a Marketing Manager has helped in dealing with pressure at work and managing teamwork more effectively and efficiently, which is one of the essential factors for the success of the company and the presence of these brands in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Once you plant the teamwork seed into the team members, everything will go in harmony with the strategy of the company and your typical day at work will be a day of challenges, achievements and fun.

You represent three iconic brands, if you absolutely had to choose a favourite, which would it be?

BMW, BMW, BMW! My heart is always beating with BMW as one of the most iconic brands in the world. I still remember when I was a little kid dreaming of owning and driving a BMW one day, I couldn’t ask for something bigger than being responsible for BMW, Rolls-Royce and MINI and I was lucky that I got this opportunity to join a talented, dedicated and experienced team at Euro Motors. Being in this role has given me the opportunity to meet and work with different people from different backgrounds locally and internationally.

Experience Maldives in Manama.

Wake up to the breathaking views of the Arabian Gulf and enjoy the ultimate retreat at one of our 3-bedroom seaside Villas. The villas are the perfect antidote for a stressful week at work or can serve as a holiday home to enjoy quality time with the family. For reservations, call +973 1758 0000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Bahrain Residents rate starts from BHD 675++, offer is applicable for Villa reservations for up to 6 persons including in-villa breakfast. Offer is subject to availability, exclusive of taxes, gratuities, fees and other charges; does not apply to groups; cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion and is not applicable for Rewards redemption. Advance reservations are required. No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. © 2022 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. fact magazine

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