FACT Bahrain March 2021

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Chef Wolfgang Puck returns for F1 season to pay tribute to Ma Maison, West Hollywood’s legendary restaurant in the 1970’s where Wolfgang took the world’s culinary stage by storm and ushered in a new era of food culture known as “California nouvelle.”

Travel back in time to California’s 1970’s era and get ready for a night to remember at CUT by Wolfgang Puck!

Friday 26, March, 2021 Dine with us +973 1711 5500 | fourseasons.com/bahrain 2

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26 37 50 Winning Ways

Art for Culture’s Sake

Road Trip

CONTENTS

84 89 96 Artful Staycation

Comfort and Style

Matter of Fact

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• THE EDITOR

Sound & Vision

“

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton

W

elcome to the March issue, my first at the helm of FACT magazine. It’s an exciting time for me and great to see there’s so much going on around the island, despite the

FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • MARCH 2021 VOLUME 14, ISSUE 06

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL (rami@fact-magazine.com) EDITOR LIZ O’REILLY (editorial@fact-magazine.com) SALES MANAGER RACHEL NAFEH ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN

restrictions.

Our cover story (p37) takes a look at some of what’s

available on the arts and culture scene. And, yes, we know there is so much more to add, but we’ve picked out some areas and items you just might not be aware of and chatted to people involved to find out how they’ve been dealing with the pandemic.

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SHOBIN JOSEPH

Our other big story this month celebrates the winners of the Fact Dining Awards 2020 (p26). Obviously, we were disappointed not to hold the usually muchanticipated gala ceremony. But in the interests of safety, social distancing, and in strict accordance with Ministry guidelines, we got together with some of our winners in a new way, to meet the demands of a new situation.

The rest of the mag is equally as exciting. We chatted to Rami Z. Sayess, the new GM at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay (p46). And, be still my beating heart, got behind the wheel of the new Audi RS Q3 Sportback, which is like something out of The Fast and The Furious (p50).

To keep you updated with what’s going on in the dining scene, we checked out three of the outdoor options at Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa (p60). Foodies will be delighted to learn that Chef Susy Massetti has launched her own new venue, L’Orto. You can read all about it in our New in Town section (p64). We also headed

CONTRIBUTORS GARETH WOODS LAYAL AL MAHMOUD ANZISH MIRZA SARA WADDAH PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ

down to Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa to experience the al fresco brunch (p68). And, speaking of hotels, we took a staycation at the newly rebranded The Art Hotel & Resort, at Amwaj Islands (p84).

It’s a busy but good read. Enjoy.

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 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

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• CONNECT

INSTAGRAM

TWITTER

@factmagazine

FACT Magazine M.E

26,748 followers

@FACTMagazineME

6.9k followers

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 15,757 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!

“

"Only those with tenacity can march forward in March." ― Ernest Agyemang Yeboah

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3/2/21

6:23 PM

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 73,521 reads of the February 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.

• Art For Culture's Sake P37 •

#FACTMAGAZINE #FACTMIDDLEEAST #FOODARTSCULTURETRAVEL #THEONLYWAYISFACT 6

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• FACT FINDS

ON THE GO, WE GO! Opening up in the heart of Seef District, 3al Tareeq has just joined the collection of different outlets at The Flagship, making it one of the most convenient and affordable Lebanese street food restaurants in the area.

3al Tareeq, which directly translates to ‘On The Go’, has recently opened its first branch in town – but at the rate it’s going, we wouldn’t be surprised if there were plans to open more around the city very soon!

Focused entirely on the rich flavours and fresh seasoning of Lebanese cuisine, 3al Tareeq’s decision to include street food has successfully brought a new concept to a well-known cuisine, all while making sure that it remains not only convenient, but also true to its Lebanese origins without deferring from the quality.

Take it from us, the falafel, crunchy on the outside with an uberfluffy interior, are some of the best we’ve found this side of Beirut.

This hybrid Lebanese street food and cafe setup has taken the essence of what it means to indulge in street food and turned it into a well-presented clean version that is ideal for immediate consumption. Ranging from the traditional manakeesh and mixed grills to conventional Lebanese mezze and succulent 8

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shawarmas, this new hole-in-the-wall’s menu of guilt-free food contains everything that your body desires in order to keep going for the rest of the day.

With Lebanese cuisine being one of the healthiest in the world, this entire restaurant feel-good vibe will have you unable to turn down any of the great deals on offer daily.

Serving up hubbly bubbly as well, 3al Tareeq has made it a priority to make sure guests have not only a convenient and satisfying experience, but one that is a pleasant journey from start to finish.

What are you waiting for? Shawarma anyone? ✤

GO: CALL 3323 3455 FOR MORE DETAILS AND RESERVATIONS.

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• LISTEN UP

LIVE THE POP-UP EXPERIENCE The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain has launched a new pop-up restaurant named Vivir, the fourth offering among a series of pop-up concepts on the famous al fresco venue, Nikmati.

Vivir, meaning ‘to live’, is run by Madrid-born Spanish Chef

on each side. Each table’s centrepiece is adorned with a

Miguel Martinez, all the way from The Ritz-Carlton Abama

floral arrangement that complements the garden setting.

in Tenerife in the Canary Islands. A true craftsman, Miguel

General Manager, Bernard de Villèle, says: “Vivir is the

has acquired a deep knowledge and understanding of the

fourth among a series of successful culinary events since

culinary process working in several one- and two-Michelin-

we opened our first pop-up in 2020, in which the main

starred restaurants over the years, most recently at the

objective is to keep providing our guests the opportunity

two-starred M.B with Chef de Cuisine Erlantz Gorostiza,

to experience different cultures and tastes through a

under Chef Martin Berasategui who has gained 12 Michelin

gastronomic journey without ever leaving the island in this

stars over his career.

unprecedented time.”

Vivir’s special menu takes inspiration from Spain’s rich

Set within 20 acres of lush gardens and golden sandy

culinary heritage and features signature tapas such as

beaches on the Gulf of Arabia, the 245-room, five-star city

croquetas; traditional crispy béchamel oxtail stew, and

resort is one of the most elegant destinations in Bahrain.

Andalusian-style squid; fresh squid fried in tempura with

Vivir pop-up will run from March 7 to April 10. Open daily

citrus alioli. The chef’s special, Paella Valenciana, is one of

except Sundays, 3pm to 11pm. ✤

the best-known dishes in Spanish cuisine and is made of Spanish rice Bomba, chicken and vegetables.

Located next to the marina with the sparkling Arabian Gulf as a backdrop, Vivir’s design celebrates Spanish culture

GO: CALL 1758 6499 OR 1758 0000 FOR MORE

with a graceful architectural setup of a traditional Spanish

INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING OR VISIT

garden, complete with wooden pergolas and vines hanging

HTTPS://WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/BAHRAIN

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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) 17580000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Starting from BHD 600 net, offer is applicable for Villa reservations for up to 6 persons including in-villa breakfast. Offer is subject to availability, inclusive 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. ©2021 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

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• LISTEN UP

LIVE THE FRENCH WAY There’s an action-packed March in store at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa! From

fun-filled

themed

brunches,

featuring

delectable

Terranova. Savour a wide range of flavour-packed dishes from

gastronomic carousels, to the extension of La Plage Beach Digital

the South of Italy with live cooking stations and entertainment

Festival – offering 40-per-cent off on beach club memberships,

in the outdoor spaces of the award-winning restaurant, Fiamma.

or the extraordinary International Women’s Day celebrations,

Every Friday, you are invited to embark on a special seafood

enjoy a range of special events at Sofitel Bahrain this month.

voyage in Saraya’s spectacularly decorated terrace under

Stretching majestically along the pristine shores of Zallaq, Sofitel

the stars. Enjoy a tantalising selection of fresh local seafood,

Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers guests a ‘Magnifique’

cooked your way with flavourful toppings of your choice. It’s all

experience that blends French luxury with traditional Bahraini

accompanied by relaxing live music and prices start at BD25

hospitality.

including soft drinks.

The five-star property is known for its extravagant events that

The merriments of March also include the special Holi Festival in

are hosted throughout the year, and the month of March is no

the award-winning Indian restaurant, Rivaaj. Embrace the lavish

exception. Keep your adrenaline pumping during the Grand Prix

and colourful Holi celebrations with dishes by Chef Javed and

season with the iconic Grand Friday F1 Brunch served in the

live acts for a carnival atmosphere.

hotel’s picturesque outdoors environs on March 26. As well as

Finally, to celebrate all the amazing ladies out there on

great food, there’ll be top-notch live entertainment, courtesy of

International Women's Day, Sofitel Bahrain is treating all women

Sweet Havana and BoulBoul!

to a whopping 50-per-cent off on all-day beach passes as well

The month of March marks another grand occasion at Sofitel

as in all its outlets.

Bahrain with the arrival of Saint Patrick's Day. The five-star hotel

All events at the hotel are hosted in accordance with the Ministry

will celebrate extravagantly this year with a lavish St. Paddy-

of Health’s safety guidelines and in line with Accor’s ALL SAFE

themed Grand Friday Brunch on March 19, full of mouth-watering

protocols. ✤

culinary delights, and top-of-the-line live entertainment. Brunch starts from BD36 per person inclusive of soft beverages with 25-per-cent off for anyone wearing green.

The festivities continue with the Meridione Italian Food Festival,

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR RESERVATIONS OR MORE

from March 18 to 26, spearheaded by Executive Chef, Marco

INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

LOVE YOURSELF Your path to self-love starts here, with the launch of a global movement by The Body Shop.

When Anita Roddick founded The Body Shop, she believed

The Body Shop self-love expert, The Millennial Therapist, Sara

passionately that beauty is an active, outward expression of

Kuburic says: “Self-love is many things, but it starts with the

everything you like about yourself. She understood the importance

recognition and appreciation of our inner worth and value. It

of self-esteem. In 1997, she launched a self-esteem and body

permits us to be our authentic selves. Self-love is the act of using

positivity campaign featuring a generously proportioned doll,

our voice and standing up for what we believe in. It is the act of

Ruby, with the slogan: There are 3 billion women who don’t look

creating change and of surrounding ourselves with people who

like supermodels and only eight who do. The Body Shop was the

support our journey.”

first beauty company to talk about self-esteem and importantly,

The Body Shop aims to inspire one million acts of self-love in

the link between personal wellbeing and collective wellbeing.

one year, to create more love and positive change in the world. It

Fast forward to today, the body positivity movement has gained

doesn’t matter how big or small, every act can lead to big change.

much traction. Yet, we still live in a troubled and turbulent world,

Tips on acts of self-love will be shared on The Body Shop’s online

where inequalities continue to widen. The Body Shop believes the

self-love hubs and social media channels. To raise awareness

next frontier in creating a positive impact in the world is increasing

of self-love, the company is working with ‘Leading Lights’ -

self-love.

changemakers and cultural ambassadors that are beacons of

In the Middle East, The Body Shop is working with Zainab Al-

self-love and help inspire others on their journey.

Eqabi, motivational speaker and para-athlete. Zainab Al-Eqabi is

“Self-love is being confident in your own skin, in your whole being.

truly an inspiration. She has overcome personal challenges and

Loving, caring, and showing respect to who you really are,” says

champions self-acceptance. Her traumatic experience of losing

Zainab Al-Eqabi. ✤

her left leg at age seven in a bomb explosion in Baghdad, made her realise that she is still blessed with other abilities in the face of what she has lost! Through her involvement in several sports events and charitable initiatives, she is sending a message to the

GO: FOLLOW @THEBODYSHOPBAHRAIN ON INSTRAGRAM

world that ’life doesn’t stop when you have a disability’.

FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

FOOD IS CULTURE FESTIVAL RETURNS Creative performances unite chefs and artists for a series of unique experiences.

Chefs and artists get together for a key annual festival hosted by

taste the recipes the chefs have created while marvelling at a

the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, which returns

showcase of original artworks, sounds and more by their partners.

for its sixth edition between March 6 and April 3 offering lots of

Unlike previous years, each pair will present their work at different

activities that build a bridge between the culinary arts with other

cultural locations across Bahrain, namely the Bahrain National

creative and artistic forms.

Museum, The Pearling Path Visitors Centre, Jasra Handicraft

These events include joint presentations by the artists and

Centre, Riffa Fort and the Archaeologies of Green Pavilion. The

chefs, along with workshops and food tours to discover the

aim is to showcase these exquisite cultural sites and breathe new

flavours of the Kingdom.

life into them.

This year, registration is required via the authority’s website

Beyond weekly presentations at the various cultural locations,

www.culture.gov.bh for those interested in attending the events,

the entire process will be documented in the form of an e-book

in line with the precautionary and preventative measures in place

and documentary. In addition, there are several adjacent

to limit the spread of Covid-19.

activities and events.

As with every year, Food is Culture aims to create a point of

The local learning platform Maximize will be offering a range

intersection between various fields of art, bringing chefs from

of virtual cooking workshops with two previous Food is Culture

different backgrounds together with several artists, ultimately

participants, Hessa Al Khalifa will be hosting her vegetable

presenting their creative works that reflect their cooperation.

dumpling cooking workshop on March 10, and Lulwa Suwailah

This year, the chefs lined up are Chef Irvin Martinez from Cantina

will teach how to make baked cheesecake on March 20. Learn

Kahlo, founder of Mt. Fuji Kakigori and Dessert House, Abdullah

how to make chicken machboose with a modern twist with

Bindayna, creator of Isolated Eats, Tabea Lutz, sourdough baker,

Zahraa Alherz’s workshop on March 13.

Layal Dana, and the duo behind Alabaster & Cannoli, Lara Al

One of Bahrain’s most prominent food bloggers, Zainab Akbar,

Abbasi and Maria Knowles.

will lead food tours, in Muharraq on March 13, and Manama on

The artists taking part are the celebrated multimedia artist Ghada

March 19. ✤

Khunji, psychedelic pop band Do You Really Like It?, the two rising fine artists Salman Najem and May Hejiri, and eco-conscious fashion designer Amal Rafie.

Audiences will interactively engage with the topics each pair has

GO: FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.CULTURE.GOV.BH

explored on their presentation day, as spectators will be able to

OR FOLLOW @CULTUREBAH.

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HORA FELIZ HAPPY HOUR

EVERY MONDAY TO THURSDAY FROM 4:00PM TO 7:00PM SCAN THE CODE TO FIND OUT HAPPY HOUR MENU. *TEMPORARILY MOVED TO NASMAT POOLSIDE LOUNGE LOCATED AT THE 3RD FLOOR OF THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN.

MENU

@SALEROBAHRAIN WWW.SALEROBAHRAIN.COM +973 1717 1300 (T) +973 3553 8150 (WHATSAPP)

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN To All the Boys: Always and Forever Need to Know:

The third and final installment in the much-loved To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before series sees LJ, Lara Jean Song Covey, preparing for the end of high school. What will that mean for her relationships with friends, family and her childhood sweetheart?

Director: Michael Fimognari Cast: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Anna Cathcart, Jordan Fisher

Why Is It Worth Watching?

If you’ve seen the two earlier films in this trilogy, based on the books of New York Times number one bestselling author Jenny Han, then you’ll already be familiar with many of the characters – LJ, the Korean-American female lead (Lana Condor); Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo), her love interest, and their myriad family and friends – who make a welcome return this time around.

As her final year of high school comes to an end, LJ is happier than ever in her relationship with Peter and looking forward to them heading to Stanford University together. But a spanner is thrown in works when Peter gets in on a lacrosse scholarship and LJ’s application is rejected.

So unfolds a summer of uncertainty and indecision coupled with a trip to Korea and a romantic visit to New York followed by a cathartic beach trip where LJ and Peter consider breaking up. Can their high-school romance survive the challenges of long-distance love and impending adulthood? And do they even want it to?

No spoilers except to say you will kick yourself if you don’t watch through to the end.

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I May Destroy You Need to Know:

“

An exploration of relationships, consent and rebuilding life after harmful and potentially soul-destroying experiences.

The story of a woman trying to recall a night when she was drugged and raped. There was much consternation when this was missed out for a Golden Globe nomination.

Director: Sam Miller, Michaela Coel Cast: Michaela Coel, Weruche Opia, Paapa

Essiedu

Why Is It Worth Watching?

It’s hard to imagine such gritty subject matter being described as a comedy-drama but writer Michaela Coel’s black humour and spot-on sense of timing render this searing tale of selfdiscovery both enlightening and, at times, hugely entertaining.

Arabella (Coel), a Twitter star and writer, takes a break from penning her second novel for a night out in London. Her drink is spiked and she wakes up knowing something is wrong. Friends help her piece together the night before.

Not surprisingly, those same friends have traumas of their own and together they work through them until the explosive finale, which sees Arabella confronting her assailant in a set of thought-provoking scenarios – a kind of ‘what would you do?’

An exploration of relationships, consent and rebuilding life after harmful and potentially souldestroying experiences. Inspired by true-life and warmed by Coel’s inimitable talent.

culinary festival Where the world comes to your seat Don’t miss our award-winning culinary and theme brunch throughout the week and let our chefs offer you special delicacies in a lively atmosphere with delightful selection of drinks, served at the poolside terrace.

Monday’s Seafood Night: priced at BHD 25 including soft drinks and water or BHD 30 including unlimited selected wine and beer.

Flaming Thursdays: priced at BHD 34 net, inclusive of unlimited premium beverages.

Award-wining Friday Brunch: priced at BHD 38 net person, including unlimited premium beverages.

For reservations or more information, please call +973 17 4600 17 or e-mail hotel.bahrain.fb@movenpick.com

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movenpick.com/bahrain

• ENTERTAINMENT

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

HISTORICAL FICTION

The Paris Dressmaker

By Kristy Cambron Beloved author Kristy Cambron delves into the Parisian fashion industry in her latest novel, woven within this brutal historical tapestry she follows a seamstress through a war-torn world. When the world-famous Maison Chanel closes its doors, seamstress Lila de Laurent is left jobless under the buckling weight of the impending WWII. The novel is a collection of exquisite details, a gripping narrative, and is based on true accounts of how Parisiennes resisted the Nazi occupation—from fashion houses to the city streets. The novel follows the storylines, of two courageous women fighting against the world and everything they cannot abide, whilst surviving the Nazi occupation.

ROCK AND ROLL

R&B

Medicine at Midnight

By Foo Fighters

Nobody Is Listening

By Zayn Malik

In a time where everything is changing, we

This boy-band graduate embraces a more

feel as if consistency with the past brings a

stripped-down and intimate approach in

sense of calm and normality. And the Foo

his latest album; one that’s much less

Fighters are doing their part in keeping their

deliberately pop. Gone are the songs for

sound and rhythm, alive and constant. For

large concerts and audiences, rather the

a quarter century, they’ve graced the Earth’s

11-track album is meant for intimacy and

sound waves with uncomplicated guitar rock,

affection – like laying in your favourite

creating a fall-back relationship with music that

blanket, by a fire, in the midst of winter.

is always there; reliable and dependable. The

Zayn Malik is a wallflower just waiting

very reason behind their magic, as they mark

to bloom, listening to all but is anyone

a glorious depiction of the band’s successful

listening to him as he perennially sits

career in music with the 10th Foo Fighters

“in a world of [his] own”? Zayn’s voice

album. The record begins with Making A Fire,

is unquestionably elastic, interchanging

blending 90s’ alt-rock guitar and upbeat choral

between vaporous falsetto and yearning

backing vocals — brighter and more optimistic

soul, relieved at having found his niche.

ROMANCE

than anything they’ve ever done. Grohl

The album opens with Calamity, as he

A Pho Love Story

dictates a slick guitar riff, a choir of women

ushers the listener into the last 10 years

By Loan Le

sings a sunny “na-na-na” refrain, all leading to a

of his life. He raps honest truth over

foot-stomping and hand-clapping enthusiastic

a backdrop of soft and tender piano

track. The song also delivers a special

chords with words like, “I say it for my

performance by Grohl’s daughter, Violet, in

sanity / Whatever the calamity / I did

the chorus. On the other hand, is the track

this for myself.” The lead single Better

Shame Shame that stands out from the rest as

however, is a sweet, tender portrait of

the gloomiest and darkest song on the album.

second chances that sets the tone for

It serves a curveball to the rest of the tracks;

the

a compelling fusion, combining a dramatic,

sound of the production. It emanates

rhythmic framework and dark atmospherics.

a soft drum beat and hand claps over

Otherwise, this pre-pandemic made album is

his soothing melodies. If he really thinks

full of spirit, life and positivity — something we

nobody is listening; well, he’s wrong

all need as we move on to tomorrow.

there.

A contemporary and modern take on Romeo & Juliet, but this time the families are competing with pho. The adorable cover for the novel should pave the way for the cuteness you will endure as you turn each page. The Mai and the Nguyen families have been rivals forever, since long before the Mais set up a rival Vietnamese restaurant across the street from the Nguyen's restaurant. Calling this a recipe for disaster is an understatement, and the pot is only bound to boil over further when the young Bao Nguyen and Linh Mai begin cooking up a romance amongst themselves.

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ever-present

coffee-shop-guitar

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• PLUGGED IN

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

Calm

Mark this March with meditation and just breathe with this calming application; calm. The app offers individual exercises like breathing therapies, sleep stories, and a large assortment of ambient music to help put your mind at ease. Calm is great for anyone who wants to create a habit of mindfulness or even experienced meditators who need that extra push to get back into their routine. The app's features are created to aid with reducing stress and discomfort, improving slumber, and even raising your ability to offer sympathy. It helps you understand what you’re doing and why you’re supposed to be doing it; giving you the training to practice, both in and out of the app. So, let your mind wander off in its soothing sounds as you let go of your worries.

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Yoga Studio

Bring a little more calm into your life with this on-demand yoga class at the tip of your fingers. Yoga Studio is the perfect blend of technology, teacher experience, and overall yoga goodness to create one destination for health-conscious individuals looking to begin their mindful journey or to take it to an all-new level. All classes come with full HD videos, supported with teacher commentary that’s clear and easy to follow, making sure to lift you into a 'tree pose' in no time. All viewers can create unlimited custom classes, schedule sessions, and gain access to more than 280 poses with detailed information and advice for beginners and veterans. This app is the perfect download to get rid of all your accumulated stress and begin your mornings on a light and positive note.

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• PLUGGED IN

YOU KNOW YOU WANT IT The weather’s chilly and restrictions are still with us. What better way to cheer yourself up than with some of the best gadgets to hit the shelves so far this year?

Samsung All-new Galaxy S21 Series 5G According to Samsung, the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra have been introduced to change everything. Backed by the power of the Galaxy ecosystem, for starters, the striking allnew design is apparent from the get-go and, at the same time, the company’s security platform – Samsung Knox Vault – ensures market-leading security.

The models feature the latest and most advanced smartphone chipset yet in a Galaxy for greater speed, energy efficiency, and advanced computing capabilities to support 5G connectivity and on-device AI. The series is also designed to be used with other Galaxy devices and, with SmartThings Find, it can help you quickly and easily locate your compatible Galaxy devices even when they’re offline.

You can even find non-connected devices, with Samsung’s new Galaxy SmartTag. Models come with a triple-lens, pro-grade camera system featuring unrivalled 8K video recording and a whole host of features to make shooting, editing and saving your content easier and more professional looking. Improved 8K Snap lets you grab crystal clear images from your video footage, and no matter the conditions, the Super Steady video function automatically optimises between 30fps and 60fps recording at FHD resolution.

The new Director’s View lets you see, switch, and select the best shot to tell your best story. Capture video with the front and rear cameras at once for real-time reactions with Vlogger View, and preview or change the angle, zoom or go wide without losing any 24

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action with Live Thumbnails. Paired with Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds Pro, you can capture both ambient sounds and your voice at the same time using multiple mic recording.

The Galaxy S21 Ultra raises the bar with Samsung’s most advanced pro-grade camera ever. The model comes with a new quad camera featuring a dual pixel 12MP ultra-wide lens and enhanced 108MP wide lens, while 64 times richer colour and more than three times wider dynamic range enable professional editing capabilities via an innovative 108MP sensor with laser auto focus. Expect greater clarity via 100x Space Zoom and the dual-tele lens system with Dual Pixel AF. Greater adaptability comes from the 10Hz-120Hz adaptive display and the S Pen has also been paired with the Galaxy S21 Ultra. Users can draw, take notes, and edit their photos using the S Pen, while Wi-Fi 6E delivers up to two times faster connectivity thanks to expanded Wi-Fi bandwidth.

To stamp your personality, the phones come in a range of colours, finishes and screen sizes. ✤ WWW.SHOP.SAMSUNG.COM

PLUGGED IN •

Bang & Olufsen Beosound Level Life these days is lived on the go and that means our favourite sounds have to come with us. Enter the new portable wireless home speaker from Bang & Olufsen, a company synonymous with both quality and performance.

The Beosound Level delivers impressive sound, unrivalled craftsmanship and a modular design that improves longevity.

With its slim silhouette and built-in recessed handle, this gadget is happy whether standing upright, lying flat, or hanging gracefully on the wall.

The speaker can easily be carried around the home and even taken into the garden thanks to its wireless technologies and IP54 dust- and splash-resistant rating. The user interface is seamlessly integrated into the aluminium frame and the buttons can be activated through soft touch.

Using materials that soften technology whilst suiting any interior, the speaker covers are available in a natural oak veneer, and a seamless knitted dark grey Kvadrat textile.

When approaching the speaker, Beosound Level lights up to greet you through integrated proximity sensors adjusting its brightness to suit day or night. After you are finished interacting, the light slowly dims. ✤ WWW.BANG-OLUFSEN.COM

Vivo V20 The V series models are widely acclaimed for their camera features and one of the V20’s USPs is its 44MP Eye Autofocus (AF) Front Camera which enables rapid eye autofocus tracking. Through an algorithm developed independent by vivo, eye positions and orbits are accurately outlined in real-time.

The rear camera comprises a 64MP main camera, an 8MP multifunction camera and a 2MP mono camera. The main camera reveals vibrant details that are clear even after vigorous zooming, while the supporting rear cameras create wide perspectives, super macro scenarios, bokeh and black-and-white film effects.

The V20 boasts vibrant and sleek design. Using AG Matte Glass technology, the smartphone provides anti-glare properties and is smudge- and scratch-resistant. Yet another interesting aspect of the device is the Super AMOLED FHD+ Halo Screen that helps bring vibrant colours to life.

The 8nm octa-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 720G processor powers the V20 with a strong combination of features. 8GB of RAM allows consumers to run multiple apps simultaneously, while 128GB of ROM provides ample storage for large games and videos. The 4,000mAh (TYP) battery with vivo’s 33W FlashCharge technology offers solid durability and rapid charging. ✤ WWW.VIVO.COM fact magazine

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

The winners of Fact magazine’s muchanticipated Fact Dining Awards 2020 received their accolades in a somewhat different ceremony this year.

Despite the Covid-19 restrictions, the team at Fact were determined that the show must go on, so, with the help of sponsors Mövenpick Bahrain, BMMI, Bath & Body Works, HSP Marketing and Annoris Events, the awards were handed out at a safely socially distanced, Ministry-compliant, outdoor celebration of the best of the best from the island’s unique dining scene. Two winners were chosen in each category – the Favourites, which were picked by public vote, and the Best, as decided by a panel of industry experts and the Fact team. This year there were 92 winners, across 46 categories ranging from steakhouse and seafood to regional cuisines and lounges, as well as the Overall Best Restaurant, taken by

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CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, and Overall Favourite Restaurant, won by Rasoi

by Vineet, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa. There were more than 400 entries and more than 61,000 unique online

votes cast by the public, with winners receiving the coveted Fact Dining Awards 2020 plaques as well as goodie bags from the sponsors.

Fact publisher, Rami Khalil, said: “Of course we were sad not to have the great gala event that our winners always look forward to. But, in the current times, it was more important to be safe and responsible while still paying tribute to those dining establishments that are such a huge part of island life.

Following the guidance and precautions for social distancing from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism and, of course, the Ministry of Health, we were able to do that with our guests at an intimate but still fun ceremony.

“We at Fact are incredibly grateful to all our sponsors, the dining sector and our readers and voters. And we look forward to being able to host our famous parties again before too long.” ✤

FACT DINING AWARDS •

WINNERS: FACT DINING AWARDS BAHRAIN 2020 AL FRESCO DINING

BEST - Trader Vic's, Seef District FAVOURITE - Fusions by Tala, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

ALL-DAY DINING

BEST - Silk's, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain FAVOURITE - Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana

BUSINESS LUNCH

BEST - CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay FAVOURITE - Bushido, Seef District

CASUAL DINING

BEST - Baker & Spice, Al Aali Shopping Complex FAVOURITE - Nomad Urban Eatery, Seef District

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

BEST - Florence & Dar Zowayed, Adliya FAVOURITE - Lumee, Various Locations

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BRUNCH

FAVOURITE - The Cheesecake Factory, The Avenues Bahrain

INTERNATIONAL

BEST - Mahonia, Adliya FAVOURITE - Links, Royal Golf Club

THEMED NIGHT

BEST - Sato, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa FAVOURITE - Mirai, Adliya

VALUE FOR MONEY

BEST - Al Fayez, Reef Island FAVOURITE - Bebabel, The Avenues Bahrain

BURGER JOINT

BEST - Brasserie Royale, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain FAVOURITE - Bifteki, Riffa

CHINESE

BEST - Cantina Kahlo, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain FAVOURITE - Margarita Mexicana, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

BEST - Crowne Plaza Manama FAVOURITE - The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

BEST - Al Abraaj, Various Locations FAVOURITE - Foods at Home, Budaiya

BEST - Black Tap, Jumeirah Royal Saray FAVOURITE - Jack's, Various Locations

FRIDAY BRUNCH

INDIAN – CASUAL DINING

BEST - re/Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay FAVOURITE - Cantina Kahlo, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain

IN-MALL

BEST - The Butcher Shop & Grill, City Centre Bahrain

ITALIAN – FINE DINING

BEST - Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain FAVOURITE - Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

BEST - Clay, Block 338 FAVOURITE - Crossroads Bahrain, Marriott Executive Apartments – Manama, Bahrain

BEST - China Garden, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa FAVOURITE - Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant, Various Locations

SATURDAY BRUNCH

BEST - Fatto, Seef District FAVOURITE - San Carlo Cicchetti, Al Aali Complex

NEWCOMER

BEST - Friday Brunch, The Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain FAVOURITE - Absolutely Fabulous Friday Brunch, Crowne Plaza Bahrain

BEST - The Grand Friday Brunch, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa FAVOURITE - Bahrain's Sweetest Brunch, Baharat, Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain

ITALIAN – CASUAL DINING

BEST - Lanterns, Various Locations FAVOURITE - Copper Chimney Restaurant, Various Locations

INDIAN – FINE DINING

BEST - Nirvana, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain FAVOURITE - Rivaaj, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

IRANIAN

BEST - Takht Jamsheed, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa FAVOURITE - Banu Restaurant, Hala Plaza

JAPANESE

LEBANESE

MEDITERRANEAN

MEXICAN

MIDDLE EASTERN

BEST - Furn Bistro & Bakery, The Westin City Centre Bahrain FAVOURITE - Saffron, Al Areen Palace & Spa

NORTH AMERICAN

BEST - Bennigan's, Various Locations FAVOURITE - Buffalo Wings & Rings, Adliya

SEAFOOD

BEST - The Fish Market, Al Bander Hotel & Resort FAVOURITE - Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain fact magazine

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SOUTH EAST ASIAN

BEST - re/Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay FAVOURITE - Monsoon, Adliya

STEAKHOUSE

BEST - Plums, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain FAVOURITE - The Meat Co., Adliya

THAI

BEST - Royal Thai, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa FAVOURITE - Thailand Restaurant, Adliya

TURKISH

BEST - Kosebasi, City Centre Bahrain FAVOURITE - Namli, Various Locations

POOL BAR/LOUNGE

BEST - The Orangery, The Palace Boutique Hotel FAVOURITE - The Ritz Gourmet Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

PUB

BEST - The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, Seef District FAVOURITE - The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

BEST - La Plage, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain FAVOURITE - Al Hadiqa Pool & Beach, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain

BEST - JJ's Irish Restaurant, Adliya FAVOURITE - Sherlock Holmes, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

SHISHA LOUNGE

BEST - Phoenix, Hidd FAVOURITE - Bushido, Seef District

BEACH CLUB

BEST - Repartee, Royal Golf Club FAVOURITE - Sherlock Holmes, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

BEST - Al Hadiqa, Jumeirah Royal Saray FAVOURITE - La Plage Beach Club, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

LADIES NIGHT

BEST - Meisei, Adliya FAVOURITE - McGettigan's, Adliya fact magazine

PATISSERIE

BEST- Lilou Artisan Patisserie, Various Locations FAVOURITE - Haute Cupcakes, Seef

BAR

BEST - Hazel Rooftop Lounge, Adliya FAVOURITE - Downtown, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

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LOUNGE

BEST - Blue Moon Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay FAVOURITE - Alto, Downtown Rotana

SPORTS BAR

CAFÉ

BEST - Café Lilou, Various Locations FAVOURITE - Angelina Paris, Adliya

COFFEEHOUSE

BEST - Dose, Various Locations FAVOURITE - Grind, Saar

TEA ROOM

RAMADAN AT HOME

TAKEAWAY & DELIVERY – HOTEL

BEST - Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay FAVOURITE - Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

TAKEAWAY & DELIVERY – RESTAURANT BEST - Malgoom, Hala Plaza FAVOURITE - The Lebanese Bakery, Seef District

OVERALL

BEST- CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay FAVOURITE - Rasoi by Vineet, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

FACT DINING AWARDS •

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ART & CULTURE •

ART FOR CULTURE’S SAKE Though the arts sector has been hit hard by the pandemic, it’s no secret that Bahrain still bats well above its weight in terms of arts and culture. With festivals galore, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a buzzing music scene, despite the pandemic, and plenty more. We take a look at some much-loved gems and highlight a few you may not be aware of.

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VISUAL ARTS

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n Bahrain, it’s not just about classical painting, although the Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, now in its 47th year, attracts interest from across the world and has, to date, shown more than 5,500 works. Bahrain Arts Society is also one of the longest running organisations of its kind in the region, having clocked up 38 years and boasting members such as Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Abbas AlMosawi, who has exhibited across the world. But no, there is certainly more to the Kingdom’s art scene.

Galleries abound, probably the most well-known is Al Bareh Art Gallery which usually hosts huge names and stages special events. At the other end of the scale are an emerging band of thriving creatives who’ve set up home studios and seen their work really take off in recent years. Not least among these are the likes of Leena Al Ayoobi, who only started showing her work publicly in 2014 and has since opened her own gallery as well as three shops, and Mustafa Halwachi, a founding member of the island’s first street-art collective back in 2018, who now has his own studio and is known for giant graffiti-style works that’re bringing in private and corporate commissions.

There is a wealth of street art, particularly around the Block 338 area, which has long been a cultural hub, thanks in part to the Al Riwaq Gallery – a non-profit which offered artists a chance to be seen and also brought in visiting creatives to share their work and hold workshops etc. Since its closure, the gallery has been much missed, particularly for the role it played in establishing an annual festival promoting local artists and musician. However, there is exciting news in the pipeline, we hear it’s coming back but details are yet to be confirmed.

There is also the tie in between art and food with an annual event in which chefs work with artists to tie their creations together.

And, let’s not forget installations, many of which can also be found around Block 338, such as walls decorated with bicycles, found objects, wooden sculptures and more. Plus, there’s the Sculpture Garden in front of Bahrain National Museum, which houses a selection of thought-provoking pieces.

Mustafa Halwachi

“

“Generally speaking, street art in Bahrain was very frowned upon in the past but now its gaining a lot of attention and interest and a lot of people do use the street art I do as backdrops for their photography, for modelling and in advertisements. I see a lot interest and a lot of acceptance of the artworks. It’s still a tough nut to crack because we don’t have, for example, a designated area where we can do the work – like how they do in Europe with the legal walls.” Mustafa Halwachi 38

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Leema Al Ayoobi

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MUSIC

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ahrain is a musical island, there’s no escaping it. From the traditional, showcased very ably at the many festivals around the Kingdom, to international chart stars whose fledgling talents have been nurtured here.

The most recognised music of the Kingdom is Fjiri, which has a historical story all of its own involving pearling crews and a jinn party! These days Fjiri has been revived by local artists such as Galali and the Dar Jinnah Band and has even been

Dar Disku

submitted for inclusion on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list.

Also much loved is a bluesy blend with a distinctive Bahraini flavour, Fan Al Sut. The classic oud brings the music to life alongside the soulful lyrics of Sut. The genre was popularised by renowned musician Mohammed Bin Faris in the 1930s and a group bearing his name still performs regularly to this day, even boasting its own music hall.

From the ancient to the decidedly modern, we have bragging rights to international acts such as Flamingods and Dar Disku to name just two. Flamingods grew up in Bahrain and started making music together in London. They produce an exotic psychedelic pop sound with Eastern influences that has seen them perform around the world, from South by Southwest to the iconic Glastonbury Festival! And Dar Disku were also schoolfriends in the Kingdom before heading to London to study and hitting on a unique blend of retro Arabic disco brought up to date with modern electronic sounds. Both have stayed active during the pandemic and have new music coming soon.

And, of course, there is a thriving music scene on the island.

Boho Bahrain (RIP) launched on the scene back in 2014 bringing together a group of musicians and artists who would get together to perform, almost in secret, in obscure locations.

After a couple of years, they went legit and later the founders moved away but the ethos continued with performers regularly coming together and staging events.

One of the early participants was Museland, born as a creative arts collective back in 2009. Under the guidance of founder Ali Al Saeed, it represents musicians from Bahrain and across the Gulf, releasing music, running a series of concerts and producing a magazine to cover the music scene. In the last few years, it has also staged Sound + Fiction, which runs over several days and is focused on community building in music through a series of performances, programmes and events.

Last year it took the concept online but, despite the restrictions, Museland is still releasing music and hoping to get back to live events later in the year.

“

“It’s been well over a year since our last official gig. What’s clear to us now is that even when live music returns, it will never be the same. And the challenge we face is how to adapt to this reality and find new ways to sustain the scene and grow it. We’re looking at a new approach that centres around context, curation and focused experiences.

“Music always adapts and survives harsh realities. But, it’s crucial that the community becomes tighter and more supportive of each other.” Ali Alsaeed 40

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Flamingods

Mohammed Bin Faris Band

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THE WRITTEN WORD

torytelling, intellectual study and poetry are all huge parts of Bahraini culture and the island is home to a rich collection of texts, many of them concerning Islam.

Historians, scholars and members of the public alike are welcomed to the spectacularly carved Bait Al Quran (House of Quran) which boasts an extensive library of more than 50,000 books as well as Quranic manuscripts, some dating back to the seventh century, as well as a fascinating collection of Qurans written on parchment, rice, peas, and grains.

Poetry has had a long history and cultural role both in Bahrain and throughout the region – HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa recently published a poem in tribute to Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority President, Turki Al-Sheikh, who replied in kind.

The Ibrahim Al Arrayed House is named after the famous Bahraini poet, who was the Kingdom’s foremost figure in poetry and literature for over half a century. Part of The Pearling Trail (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), it houses a substantial collection of books and has become a cultural centre for events relating to poetry.

If you want to get acquainted with modern-day Bahraini poetry, look out for the works of award-winning Ali Al Shargawi, a leading Bahraini poet, lyricist and playwright whose work has been translated into English, German, Bulgarian, Russian, Kurdish, and French.

Expat and local writers alike get together regularly at Bahrain Writers’ Circle, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

It was founded in February 2011 when Robin Barratt placed a small magazine advertisement inviting writers and aspiring writers to a meeting. Now it has regular get-togethers, workshops and a poetry circle.

Robin decided to use the situation back in 2011 to rally support

for Bahrain by launching an anthology titled My Beautiful Bahrain. It showcased all the members’ words, newbie writers, seasoned writers, everyone. The only guideline was to keep in mind the title of the book: My Beautiful Bahrain. This, along with its sequel More of My Beautiful Bahrain, continues to hold its own on the Amazon best-seller list.

The Second Circle poetry group was launched by David Hollywood which soon led to the Colours of Life Poetry Festival. And, in recent years, the writers’ circle launched another much-acclaimed annual event Confluence – Where Words and Images Meet. This exhibition is shown at the Harbour Gate exhibition space and pairs writers with visual artists to compose short pieces inspired by the artworks.

“

"All our three monthly BWC meetings and workshops are scheduled as Zoom online meetings. They are very successful, and we invite speakers and authors from overseas to talk to us about their journey of writing and publishing. We record the sessions so that members who are not able to join on these evenings can view them at their own pace.

The meetings add great value to our members' writing careers and keep us all connected."

Claudia Hardt, Bahrain Writers’ Circle.

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FESTIVALS

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ou know the Kingdom takes its cultural events seriously when you realise a special hosting area has been included in one of the newest developments – Bahrain Bay! And festivals are one area in which the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) really comes into its own. From organising the annual Bahrain International Music Festival, which last year went ahead in a pared down version with artists performing to drive-up audiences, to the, usually massive, annual Spring of Culture which sees big-name musicians being brought in from across the world – this year the event is likely to be online focused and we’ll be bringing you news as soon as we hear anything.

But are you aware that BACA also runs an annual sleep-out event in celebration of the national museum? Taking place overnight, Manama Doesn’t Sleep features 12 hours of events from music and dance shows to literary talks, fine art exhibits and more. Look out for that in December.

Or how about Ta’a Al Shabab? It’s a month-long annual festival that seeks to involve the Kingdom’s youth and focuses on a wide range of cultural pursuits, including literature, fine arts, poetry, theatre, music, architecture, technology, human science and more. Planned activities include workshops, debates, lectures, art exhibitions, musical and theatrical shows, as well as open forums to encourage public discourse.

Independently, there’s the BNP Paribas Bahrain Jazz Fest which has hosted big local names such as Ahmed Al Qasim and previously attracted the likes of Spyro Gyra and Ana Popovic.

In 2020 the festival took a hybrid form with socially distanced performances concentrating mainly on one international artist and various local musicians coupled with workshops, talks and online events running over 12 days. This year’s jazz festival is planned around October-November and subject to Government approval.

There's also the Sound & Fiction festival, mentioned in the music section, which runs over several days and many clubs hold their own events such as TribFest, at Bahrain Rugby Football Club, and Bahrain Rocks at the Dilmun Club, both of which we hope to see making a return this year.

“

"I have been fortunate to contribute to the growth of the cultural sector in Bahrain and have seen first-hand the impact it has had in enhancing tourism and developing crosscultural understanding. As we look toward post-pandemic recovery, we must continue to support sustainable tourism to drive socio-cultural progress and achieve greater economic prosperity." HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities 44

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NEW HAND AT THE HELM Rami Z. Sayess, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay’s new Regional Vice-President and General Manager, shares his thoughts on the evolution of the hotel, work-life balance and his secret talent.

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FACT SPOTLIGHT •

Where are you originally from and what attracted you to the hospitality industry?

I’m originally from Lebanon and also British by citizenship.

Growing up, my family and I travelled frequently and from a young age I remember being very inquisitive and intrigued by how hotels operate, always asking questions and constantly losing myself in back-of-house areas I probably shouldn’t have been in!

My father, a pioneering man with a bold vision for the travel industry in Lebanon in the early 1960s, instinctively picked up on my curiosity and encouraged me towards a career in hospitality, eventually leading me to study hotel management at Les Roches Hotel School in Switzerland and Cornell in the United States.

Please tell us about your most recent past postings and how they have prepared you for your current role?

I have held the position of Regional Vice President & General Manager at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts for the past 10 years, starting in Bangkok where I was responsible for four hotels and resorts in Thailand between 2011-2013. Thereafter I returned to the Middle East to Qatar before moving back to Lebanon, where I oversaw a number of Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts within the EMEA region, as continues to be the case here in Bahrain.

In addition to my position as General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, my regional responsibility currently covers the following countries: Mauritius Island, Tunis, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Lebanon, as well as several hotels in the fact magazine

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pipeline within the region. I am also in charge of recruiting graduates from hotel schools in Europe to be placed at our properties around the world, identifying high potentials and our company’s next generation of leaders.

My first six years with Four Seasons were spent between Amman – Jordan (2005-2007) as Hotel Manager, then Riyadh – Saudi Arabia (2007-2011) as General Manager, during which I learned about Four Seasons’ culture and the foundations that make Four Seasons the company it has always been!

You have served in Bahrain before, what made you decide to return to the Kingdom?

My family and I are very happy to be back in Bahrain as we have fond memories from a previous assignment here when my second son Mazen was born, 19 years ago. The kind hospitality we have experienced in Bahrain speaks to the generosity and warmth of the people who have made us feel right at home since our arrival. Although many things have evolved since we last lived in Bahrain, one thing remains the same – the genuine hospitality of the Bahraini People – which made us even more excited about returning to the Kingdom.

What are the most significant changes you have noted since your return?

This hotel was one of the properties I was responsible for overseeing as regional vice president since the pre-opening phase in 2014. To now return and see familiar faces from the pre-opening team and the fantastic additions to the facilities, including the private beach and kids’ waterpark, gives me great excitement for what’s to come.

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Are your family here in Bahrain with you and, if so, how are they enjoying the island so far?

My wife Mary and daughter Lara are here with me whilst my sons, Maher and Mazen, are studying abroad. Maher will be earning his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering this summer from City University in London, and Mazen, who was in fact born in Bahrain, is in his first year at Les Roches Hotel School in Switzerland, where I graduated from 30-plus years ago.

Every business of every size must be evolving and adapting to succeed and I’m proud to see how much Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay has transformed in the past six years. Thanks to our incredibly supportive owners and our dedicated team and the ongoing guidance of our corporate leaders at Four Seasons.

I truly believe that Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is a land of opportunities where we shall continue to evolve with one goal in mind, that of being the hotel of choice in Bahrain.

To what do you attribute the success of your hotels?

Our people are our greatest asset. My ultimate goal has always been to empower and to help people reach their full potential and achieve their goals. Investing time, attention and other resources in our team can help build a culture that values people, a culture for which Four Seasons has proudly long established a reputation.

Building a team that is engaged in the business can bring a competitive edge and dynamism to any organisation.

I’ve also always believed that our front-of-house team members are the ones that truly make a difference. Through daily interactions, they know our customers best and therefore, when empowered, they embody the innovation and creativity which is necessary to succeed in such an industry. Having said that, they also need the support of our ‘heart-of-house’ team members whom I call the ‘backbone’ of the hotel operation.

Many in the hospitality industry mention the frequent unsociable hours. How do you ensure a balance between family and work?

When you sign up for hospitality you need to know what this actually means. And if you like people, you would want to be around them all the time, this is how hoteliers thrive. If your other half happens to like people too, that’s a bonus as it would certainly make life easier.

In reality, it is imperative that one finds the right balance for them and their friends and family. I believe the past year has taught us a lot about the importance of family and ways in which we can spend more time together, while still getting things done at work! If there was one positive outcome about the past year for me personally, I would say this was it! Although I miss travelling and visiting my colleagues around the world, we managed to find ways to stay connected, at times even more closely than we ever were before!

What are the things you most like to do either as a family or solo, when you are not working?

Travelling with my family to new destinations and once a year going ‘solo’ on my detox trips to renowned health farms around the world [virus restrictions permitting].

Please tell us one thing about yourself that others may not know, and which would surprise our readers.

I was a professional table tennis player in my younger years and played for the national team in Geneva during the late 1980s. ✤

What are the challenges you see ahead of you at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay and how do you plan to address these?

I see challenges as opportunities, and I believe that continuing to learn how to navigate and adapt in times of uncertainty will be our team’s greatest opportunity to further refine and enhance our services and product for our guests. Guided by Lead With Care, our enhanced health and safety programme implemented at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts worldwide, we continue to strengthen our industry-leading health and safety procedures, enhance tools and training, and embrace technological innovations to keep our guests, members, and employees safe. fact magazine

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• ISLAND RIDES

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MEET: THE NEW AUDI RS Q3 SPORTBACK Audi’s new creation houses the outstanding five cylinder 2.5 TFSI, an engine that has won the sought-after ‘International Engine of the Year Award’ nine times in a row.

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he Audi Group is one of the most successful premium motorcar manufacturers on the planet with a presence in over 100 markets worldwide.

In 2019 alone, it delivered around 1.846 million vehicles to customers and is continuously receiving awards for automobile excellence. We at Fact Magazine have always loved all things Audi and were recently given the opportunity to test drive the Audi Q7, a mid-sized luxury SUV that was hugely impressive to say the least. This month, thanks to the great team at Audi Centre Bahrain, we were fortunate enough to be handed the keys to the new Audi RS Q3, designed as a sportback for the very first time and, needless to say, we could not have been more excited.

As the 2021 RS Q3 came into view, we felt like we were staring at a vehicle out of The Fast and The Furious franchise. With a bright Kyalami Green paint job, gloss-black detailing and sharp, sporty lines running from front to rear, this car looks like it means business long before it ever touches tyre to tarmac. At the front end of this high-performance, compact SUV coupé, a gloss black Singleframe grille, complete with three-dimensional honeycomb structure, sits above an RS-specific bumper with large lateral air inlets. At the flanks, it is easy to see the RS’s lowered position as compared to the Q3 Sportback. 20-inch wheels are fitted as standard and the vehicle’s low-slung roofline culminates in strong, sloping D-pillars at the rear. The backend features a low rear window and roof edge spoiler in gloss black with an RS-specific spoiler lip. A dual-branch RS exhaust system with large oval tailpipes on both sides are positioned perfectly in an RS-specific bumper sporting a rear diffuser and horizontal blades.

As we slipped inside the spacious interior, we were greeted by the comfortable RS embossed sport seats upholstered with black leather. This performance-orientated car boasts an RS sport steering wheel that is flattened at the bottom, along with newly designed shift paddles. A new ‘RS Mode’ steering wheel button is present on the wheel and allows the driver to control two optional RS modes in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The entire cockpit has been designed with the driver in mind with the centre console, MMI touch display and air-conditioning control unit having been tilted toward the driver by 10 degrees. The top-of-the-line MMI navigation plus infotainment system offers the same variety of functions as in the large Audi models. This fully-fledged five-seater offers a surprising amount of space throughout with sufficient head, knee and shoulder room for all occupants. The luggage compartment can hold 530 litres, a total that can be increased to 1400 litres when the rear seats are folded down, making this vehicle practical for everyday use.

Thoroughly impressed by the exterior and interior of the new RS Q3, we could not wait to get this model out onto the road.

Fitted with the even more powerful, multi-award-winning, five cylinder 2.5 TFSI, we felt our bodies being pressed back into our seats as we applied pressure to the pedal. This beast of an engine produces 2.480cc of displacement with 294kW of power. It produces a maximum torque of 480Nm and can surge from zero to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The RS Q3 Sportback 52

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has a regulated top speed of 250km/h but if that’s not enough, you can decide on the 280km/h option instead. The dualbranch RS exhaust system emphasises the sound of the potent engine and we saw many heads turn as we made our way along the roads. The power of this engine is transmitted via a sevenspeed S tronic to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the control on offer is spectacular. With a dynamic handling system, progressive steering, a responsive braking system and sport suspension, we could not have had more fun driving this vehicle if we had tried.

The master designers at Audi have also included an array of safety features throughout the vehicle to ensure that you and you loved ones always get from A to B as safely as possible. ✤

ISLAND RIDES •

“

With a bright Kyalami Green paint job, glossblack detailing and sharp, sporty lines running from front to rear, this car looks like it means business long before it ever touches tyre to tarmac.”

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• ISLAND RIDES

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE NEW RS Q3, CALL AUDI CENTRE BAHRAIN ON 1745 9933 AND BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.

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IN YOUR HOME WITH THE FRIGIDAIRE DEHUMIDIFIER l

Custom Humidity Control

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No humidity. No moisture.

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Continuous Drain Option

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Automatic Shut Off

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Front Loading Bucket with Carrying Handle and Splash Guard

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Easy-to-Clean Washable Filter

Amazing offer!

Original price: 114.286 + vat Sale price: 93.322 + vat

From March 1st to March 6th

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• MOTORING NEWS

MCLAREN UNVEILS NEXT-GENERATION HYBRID SUPERCAR

In what is sure to be a thriller for those who feel the need for speed, but at the same time want to ramp up their green credentials, the McLaren Artura has made its debut promising drivers high performance, super-car driving dynamics and engagement with pure EV driving capability.

With every vehicle hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, England, the new member of the family is underpinned by the company’s philosophy of super-lightweight engineering, combined with faster throttle response, lower emissions and ability to run in pure EV mode.

Brett Soso, Managing Director – Europe, Middle East & Africa, McLaren Automotive Ltd., says: “We are proud and honoured to showcase the all-new McLaren Artura in Bahrain and on the day of its global debut. Every drop of our engineering expertise gained across more than 50 years of racing has been poured into the Artura, to deliver a combination of breathtaking performance, driver engagement and dynamic excellence.”

The Artura is the first model built on the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) with advanced and flexible chassis design. It has been optimised for hybrid applications through bespoke battery compartment, domain-based ethernet electrical architecture, as well as electrical air-conditioning.

Weight-reduction measures provide a class-leading lightest dry weight of 1,395kg*, and a DIN kerb weight of 1,489kg*.

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A lightweight 2,993cc twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine is paired to a bespoke eight-speed transmission and a compact e-motor, generating a combined power output of 680PS (671 bhp) and 720Nm of torque, which translates to a class-leading powerto-weight ratio of 488PS per tonne*. The Artura’s top speed is electronically limited to 330km/h with 0-100km/h reached in just 3.0 seconds* and 0-200 km/h in 8.3 seconds*.

The Artura is designed with full Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) capability and can be charged to an 80-per-cent level in just twoand-a-half hours. The battery pack can also harvest power from the combustion engine during driving. In pure EV mode, the vehicle has a range of up to 30km and a top speed of 130km/h.

The exterior design gives the car a ‘shrink-wrapped’ appearance and the technical sculpture of the car has been conceived to optimise aerodynamic performance as well as cooling.

The driving experience is enhanced through a new Digital Instrument Cluster mounted to the steering column and the Artura is the first McLaren to offer Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, as well as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop/Go, Road-Sign Recognition, Lane-Departure Warning and High-Beam Assist. *Subject to final validation. ✤ BAHRAIN.MCLAREN.COM

MOTORING NEWS •

SERVICE AND STYLE AT ADAMAS BAHRAIN MOTORS ICONIC BRITISH MARQUES LAND AT ADAMAS BAHRAIN MOTORS’ NEW FACILITY.

For those who love to see high-class, rare names in their garages, Adamas Motors has launched a state-of-the-art service centre catering to Aston Martin, Lotus Cars and Morgan Motors, ahead of the highly anticipated unveiling of a brand-new showroom scheduled for April this year.

The Nuwaidrat facility was launched at a careful one-on-one, appointment-only round-table, adhering to Covid-19 protocols. It will service all brands under the Adamas Motors umbrella as well housing a temporary showroom in the run up to the launch of the new luxury opening at a prestigious Moda Mall address.

With a well experienced sales and service team Adamas Motors is ready to welcome existing and new customers and provide them with a first-class service and brand experience.

Chris Buxton, the company’s operations director, says: “We are very pleased to have opened this fantastic, authorised service centre for Aston Martin, Lotus and Morgan Motor Company and are ready to welcome existing and new customers.”

Another high-end marque is due to join the group and development of the new showroom is underway. It will be home to all four under one roof, offering a unique retail experience featuring a coffee shop, boutique, perfumery and a majlis for VIP customers and guests.

The products offered will range from BD19,000 to BD752,000, catering to Bahrain’s discerning car enthusiasts. The Moda Mall destination will not only retail the latest models of vehicles but will offer a unique lifestyle experience with a motor-show feel which the company likens to a one-stop shopping experience,

more like a luxury department store.

Karl Hamer CEO Adamas Motors says: “Bahrain and its people have always been close to my heart. I have visited many times over the last decade, every time I visit Bahrain, I feel like I am coming home. We are proud and honoured with the welcome we have been given in the Kingdom and I am grateful for the hard work and support our team have shown to date.”

Adamas Motors LLC was founded in 2017 by Karl Hamer and is all about luxury and lifestyle, best-in-class and for customers to receive an unrivalled experience from the selected prestige– performance marques. The group has a diverse portfolio of brands across the Middle East and Asia Pacific. ✤ GO: VISIT ADAMASMOTORS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with…

Patrice Cornee The GM of Downtown Rotana – Manama takes five minutes to chat with us about career goals, family feelings and the celebration of an important milestone for the hotel.

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5 OVER 5 •

What made you choose a career in hospitality and how did you get started?

I’ve always been fascinated with discovering the world and travelling to places far from home. When I was a kid, I would look at my Earth globe and pin the Far East as my favourite destination, furthest away from France [his home country].

During family summer holidays, I used to enjoy looking at the sports and luxury cars parked at a five-star hotel located close by and was fascinated by all the activities which always seemed to be happening inside. I wanted to be part of it. Later, the natural choice was to go to a hotel management school before I applied for my first job abroad, where I have worked my entire career. [The 25-year hospitality veteran has held posts from the United Kingdom to the USA, Macau, South Korea, Hong Kong and the UAE.] You have worked at five-star properties across the world, what distinguishes Downtown Rotana – Manama from the others?

A real sense of belonging to a bigger family has always been felt amongst colleagues and guests, and this has been enhanced over the last year amidst the challenges and fears everyone faced. The genuine care and generosity displayed by everyone to support each other, especially to people who needed it the most, was noticed on many occasions. I could give numerous moving examples of times I saw colleagues supporting each other operationally or in their personal lives. This sincere care, and sense of belonging also extends to our guests and partners, which I think distinguishes Downtown Rotana from others.

The property is marking its fifth anniversary this year.

What would you say has been the greatest achievement in that time?

Since the opening of Downtown Rotana, the team and the hotel have received many accolades. The greatest tribute must be the fantastic recognition we receive daily from our guests, and this is reflected in our extraordinarily high ratio of returning guests which increases year on year.

What is your favourite part of your job?

As any hotelier will tell you, guests’ and colleagues’ satisfaction is hugely rewarding. I find the competitive environment very exciting and I really enjoy seeing the team being creative and taking risks to be competitive. Ultimately, it is all about making guests happy by exceeding their expectations and by keeping staff highly motivated, which is extremely rewarding. Life in a hotel is incredibly rich, incredibly exciting and never boring. No day is like any other.

What are your plans for the future at Downtown Rotana – Manama, are there any new deals, refurbishments, dining offers etc. on the horizon?

We are about to celebrate our five-year anniversary. Although the restrictions in place may not allow us to offer the same variety of promotions as last year, we will still reward our guests with exciting offers. One of them will be the launch of our five new themed set lunches at Teatro Downtown. At the same time, we will continue to revamp our well recognised themed Friday Brunch and offer customised room packages for local, regional and international markets, catering to both business and leisure needs. ✤ fact magazine

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

P

re restrictions much of Bahrain’s social scene revolved around dining, and sometimes dancing, at the island’s myriad restaurants and lounges. A certain virus has put a stop to all that, not to mention the overseas travel so many of us enjoy. But, thankfully, we can still venture to far away places with strange sounding names courtesy of the enterprising and highly skilled restaurateurs who have set up outdoor dining spaces to showcase regional and international cuisines that give us a taste of the world beyond our shores. The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa is renowned for its multiple outlets offering a huge range of flavours from all around the world and we were lucky enough to try some of them in safe, socially distanced outdoor settings.

It’s safe to say, the restaurants may have (temporarily) lost their sumptuous and atmospheric settings, but the excellence of both the culinary offerings and top-class service are still very much in evidence making the move outdoors seem effortless and even adventurous.

Over the coming pages we report back on three outdoor dining experiences that come very highly recommended.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

Japanese Flavours at the Pearl of the Gulf While most restaurants are trying to survive on outdoor service; those with no outdoor space have been forced to get creative.

Thus, the committed team from Sato at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa, one of the best in the island’s culinary industry, took the brave decision to move their kitchen outside.

The roof of The Gulf Spa is now the new al fresco Sato. Wooden tables and plain tissue-covered chairs, set with social distancing in mind, are backed up by the sound of the water fountains in the background melting into the well-chosen melodies, outstanding service, and extraordinary flavours.

We are treated to a nine-course journey in this perfect atmosphere!

Thank you, Gulf Hotel, for the invitation!

Wagyu Beef Temari with Foie Gras is a sophisticated bite to start that will awaken your taste buds.

Toro Tartar in Crispy Salmon Skin is another great starter. The saltiness of the crispy skin and the creaminess of the tartar… go ahead and use your hands, no forks required.

Plate number two is Hamachi Truffle Yuzu. Believe us, yuzu is the perfect sauce to complement any fish.

The next plate is Instagram-worthy, but we resist the urge to whip out our cameras, instead choosing to tuck into the Shima Aji Salad which is a spring painting! A perfect marriage between rocket leaves, edible flowers, and raw white fish with orange ponzu dressing.

The laksa-inspired prawn soup that follows is a welcome discovery.

Flavourful broth and tender prawn meat cooked to perfection.

Next up, at number six, is Hokkaido Scallops Maki. Three rolls of a heavenly creation that you should not miss.

The main course comes as a pair. The first is a combination we did not see coming. Truffle eggs and pan-fried fish with a simple squeeze of lime, impossibly simple and surprisingly good. The second is amazing Beef Sukiyaki with creamy mash and mini Brussels sprouts, a dish that’s definitely worth going out for.

And the end… light and refreshing with sweet melon and tapioca pearls in coconut milk. A well thought out dessert after so many plates and so many flavours.

If you crave the Japanese cuisine, but do not know what to order?

Do it A La Omakase and leave it to the chef as we did, because the best things in life are those that come to you unexpectedly. ✤ GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS OR MORE INFORMATION.

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

Elegantly Eastern at Royal Thai and China Garden We walk through the hotel and right out towards Typhoon Lounge, where our outdoor feast is to take place. Today’s choice of cuisine is a mixture of both Chinese and Thai food.

Opting to sit right by the man-made koi pond, we are presented with menus from both China Garden and Royal Thai, which are now being made available to guests sitting at the hotel's outdoor terrace. Despite being almost complete opposites, both these restaurants, ironically, really go hand in hand once you begin ordering, as the fusion of both cuisines helps in balancing some of the flavours.

Starting with appetisers from both outlets, we decide to try the Chicken Sui Mai, the Royal Platter and Som Tam Koong (a classic green papaya salad with grilled shrimps). The combination of the sui mai with the Thai starters might have been one of the most interesting choices we’ve made to date – whilst the Thai dishes focused more on balancing different flavours altogether, once dipped in soy sauce, the sui mai surprised our tastebuds by challenging our palates completely.

Ready and eager for our main courses, we once again decide to go for a combination of different dishes from the two restaurants.

Pairing the Kai Pad Med Mamong with China Garden’s Crispy Beef, we grab our forks and dig in! While the stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts is perfectly balanced in its distinctive taste, the Crispy Beef is completely the opposite (in a good way!). Shredded to bite-size pieces and soaked in sweet chilli sauce, the beef is fried to perfection and has a delightfully spicy kick to it!

Despite both cuisines being very different from each other, each of the dishes complements the other by balancing out the different flavours, while still giving you that “I’m indulging in Asian food” feeling.

Ending this culinary journey on a sweet note, we opt to go for a Thai-inspired dessert, the Kluay Tod – which is one of the favourites – made from banana fritters, fried vanilla ice cream and lemon honey sauce, it tastes even better than it sounds! With the banana fried to a perfect golden texture, the vanilla ice cream perfectly honours the rest of the dish, making it one that we won’t ever forget. ✤ GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS OR MORE INFORMATION.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

A True Taste of Persia With current restrictions forcing us all outdoors, Takht Jamsheed has set up on the pool deck, looking over the sparkling waters, with much of the cooking done on a very efficient grill and bread warmed in a traditional flaming oven.

The menu is limited for now but there will be a special celebratory dining list on offer for Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, which will run from March 20 to 23.

After a bowl of fresh greens to begin, a starter of salad – cucumber, onions and tomatoes – might not seem overly adventurous but the dressing of pomegranate syrup, lemon juice and olive oil lifts this staple, exciting and uniting the different flavours. And the very traditional Kashk Bedamjan is one of the night’s stand-out dishes.

Aubergine is grilled and then mashed to an almost creamy texture topped with dried yoghurt and cream and tiny dots of mint mixed with olive oil. Pure comfort food at its best with the mint dabs adding just the right sharpness to the otherwise mellow, tonguesoothing mix.

Unable to resist finishing the whole bowl of Kashk Bedamjan, we try to cry off the soup, Ash Reshteh, in anticipation of our mains.

But boy are we glad our attentive and knowledgeable waiter, Albin, won’t hear of it. Another absolute corker! Filled with minced green leaves, noodles, red kidney beans, chick peas, lentils and, no doubt, a generous helping of herbs, many of which are just a fleeting tease on the taste buds, the soup is topped with dried yoghurt and, make no mistake, it is heavy. But, every spoonful is a dip into pure culinary heaven.

We have to say, the Kashk Bedamjan and Ash Reshteh are the first dishes in a long history of food tasting that have made us, confirmed kitchenphobes, want to learn to cook (except maybe the truffle risotto, but that’s a story for another day). But Albin is quick to point out that it’s not just about recipes; food from the kitchen of Chef Hussain also has the benefit of the chef’s “magic hands”.

We move onto the mains, Chelo Kabab Kubideh Zaffarani and Tikkeh Masty Gousht. The minced lamb of the kabab is seasoned with onions and the delicate tang of saffron lends the meat an almost sweet tenderness, while the lamb fillet of the tikkeh literally melts in the mouth, the taste and flavour of the yoghurt, peppercorn and onion marinade combining to boost the piquancy of the lightly grilled flesh. The accompaniment of traditional Iranian three-coloured rice, the yellow with its saffron and barberries, and the green, with its dill and broad beans, lends the plate a carnival appearance. A fitting way to end our feast. ✤ GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS OR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• NEW IN TOWN

FOR THE LOVE OF REAL FOOD

Taking guests on a journey straight to Tuscany, join FACT’s Sara Waddah as she experiences fulfilment and nourishment from the rustic, redefined, one and only, L’Orto Bahrain.

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NEW IN TOWN •

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• NEW IN TOWN

W

ith organic and fresh ingredients farmed and consumed every day, Chef Susy Massetti has just recently opened up her very own restaurant, L’Orto, which is located in Adliya Block 338. Introducing one of the very first ‘farm-to-table’ concepts in the city, this eatery redefines Italian cuisine from all that we know, into something that is far more satisfying and nourishing.

Upon entering L’Orto, your soul immediately transports elsewhere with the ambience they have put in place. Giving the entire restaurant a dreamy, rustic aura, guests are welcomed and ushered through, leaving time for them to soak in all the incredible pieces of art displayed throughout the place. With fruit- and vegetable-faced portraits hanging on the walls, L’Orto pays homage to Renaissance painters, culture and tradition, with hand-picked items that all work side by side to make you feel like you’re in Italy.

Known for her incredible dishes and organic farming, we were lucky enough to be greeted personally by Chef Susy, who lightly spoke to us about the special creations we were going to experience, and how her main drive continues to be about nourishing the human spirit.

One thing I learnt about Italian food whilst at L’Orto, is that it is never only food – there are stories, memories, feelings and excitement that all go into the dishes prepared. Bringing a little taste of Tuscany right to our table, Chef Susy spoke about the significance of the dishes to her, the memories and sentiment that comes with working on them, as well as the beauty of the entire preparation process.

Going into the procedure of the way things are done at L’Orto, the restaurant currently presents guests with ‘Il menu di oggi’, which is the daily changing menu that is put together and prepared by the staff every single day. Some of the dishes on this menu are

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rotating, but it takes quite some time before you’ll ever come across them again – now that made us feel special!

Alongside the ever-changing daily menu, L’Orto also has I Piatti Amati and I Piatti Toscani Di Tradizione – these are apart from the permanent menu that stays available all week long and is composed of the Most Loved and Traditional Tuscan Dishes that are prepared by the chefs. Bellissimo!

As we got acquainted with the restaurant and prepared ourselves for what was to come, we were presented with our first round from the Most Loved Menu – the La Burrata with fresh Tuscan black truffles was rich in flavour and perfectly paired with the La Pizza Bianca ai Funghi. Both of these had us floating in truffle heaven and we were not ready to come down.

Realising that the surprises of this night were never-ending, we delved head-first into the exclusive menu, and were taken aback by every single dish – there was absolutely no room for competition as everything was worthy of an award.

The caramelised fig salad and tuna tartare were exquisite in taste and presentation – the techniques used to create the dishes helped us realise how the purity of the ingredients played a massive role in amazing our taste buds with every bite. You can trust us that no plate was left unattended and that not a single mouthful was left behind.

NEW IN TOWN •

Already extremely satisfied with the starters – the portions are somewhat close to perfect – we cooled down and prepared for the main courses. Now, these were the real show stoppers!

Out came the Coda Alla Vaccinara, Sunchoke and Leeks Risotto, Beef Cheeks and the European Seabass Fillet. All these dishes were perfectly prepared and presented, alongside the chefs who spent time explaining to us what each dish consisted of, how it was prepared and all the organic ingredients that were used (directly from Susy’s farm and onto our table). Each one of these dishes left us all delighted, not only were we highly impressed by the quality of the food, but the organicness of it all worked directly to nourish our spirits and stomachs! If you are ever there and come across these platters on the menu, do not hesitate whatsoever!

Ending it all on a sweet note, the chefs surprised our palates with their Il Cheesecake ai Datter, a cheesecake made with dates, and the Lemona Trinj Tart – we'll be going back for those soon! ✤

GO: CALL: 6673 3345 FOR RESERVATIONS OR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FOODIE CORNER •

GASTRONOMICAL GLOBETROTTING

Friday afternoons should never go to waste, join FACT’s Sara Waddah as she takes a trip around the world in only three hours!

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• FOODIE CORNER

H

ear it from me, nobody actually enjoys getting out of bed early in the morning on their days off, but when the subject of the afternoon is Sofitel Bahrain’s Grand Friday Brunch, I had no other choice but to be up

and ready to go!

Promptly arriving at the south of the island where the Sofitel is located, perched on the pristine beaches of Zallaq, the fivestar luxury hotel was bustling with guests and staff as they prepared to kick off their weekly brunch – which, by the way, took one of our dining awards for being the current best on the island!

Heading outside for the al fresco experience, the hotel had transformed Saraya, Fiamma and Rivaaj Restaurants into a relaxing golden environment for international gastronomy which sees numerous stalls set up for the afternoon. With trendy tunes playing in the background and the hotel’s own Cuban band setting the tone for the brunch affair, all safety precautions were taken into consideration during the planning process to make sure that guests are comfortable and well protected in Accor’s ‘ALL Safe’ settings.

As we were seated, my eyes started to wander as my appetite was excited from seeing the range of international live cooking stations that were placed around the terrace. From an impressive array of culinary creations, we started with our appetisers and asked the team to put in an order from each of the stations for us.

Starting guests with Japanese cuisine, Chef Myo Zaw Khine and his team moved around the tables, serving diners off a large board of different variants of sushi. Gracefully manoeuvring

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FOODIE CORNER •

and explaining the different options available, not only was this compliant with making sure everyone remained safe, but it was also such a great tactic that left guests eager to try what was on the boards, and excited for the next rounds.

As time went on, tables were approached by speciality chefs from different cuisines, whether Italian, Arabic, Indian and even seafood, there was not a single variant left that wasn’t part of the brunch! With spirits high, laughter in the air, good music and free-flowing beverages running through the afternoon, as we got closer and closer to the end, the hotel made sure to keep the surprises coming – ensuring it all ended on an even higher note.

After indulging in what felt like never-ending plates of food, out came one of the main stars of the show, Boulbol. Dressed head to toe in African traditional wear whilst tapping away with his finger cymbals, Boulbol walked around greeting, cheering and interacting with guests as we all enjoyed the rich sounds of the Cuban band while taking in the sunset views. What an experience.

Running every Friday from 12:30pm to 3:30pm, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa invites guests to head down for the Grand Friday Brunch that is one of a kind. Award-winning as well as perfect for all ages, there isn't any other way we'd want to spend our weekends! ✤

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

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• DINING ON THE DEALS MENU

READY, SET, FEAST

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Meet the very best dining deals across Bahrain this month.

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• DINING DEALS

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Harvesters Pub and Terrace Rock like the Irish on March 17 as you dress in green and join in the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at The Backyard @ Harvesters. Sing along through the night with tunes from a custom book filled with the evening’s songs. Drink like the Irish with a special promotion on the Black Stuff and speciality beverages. And feast like the Irish with the best beef and ale pie in town and more. Entry is free and the evening runs from 7pm to 12am.

GO: CALL 1753 1122 OR 3992 0163 for more information.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Harvesters and The Backyard Check out the amazing BD2.5 net menu available from Saturday to Thursday with selected beverages paired with the Fat Butcher Small Meals created just for you. The promotion runs from 5pm to 8pm.

GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3992 0163 for more information.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Harvesters and The Backyard Fridays are for quality meats, because you deserve ‘em! Join the crew for a pukka three-course feast consisting of the Fat Butcher’s big meat platter prepared with premium cuts of meat cooked to perfection and complemented by a wide starter and dessert selection served on platters to your table.

Platters to choose from are beef, chicken, seafood, vegetarian, and St. Louis. Each includes five selected beverages per meal priced at BD20 and BD25 net. The offer runs from 12pm to 12am.

GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3992 0163 for more information.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN La Mosaique Restaurant Take a seafood journey of flavour to exotic and far away destinations every Thursday as Chef Magesh and his team prepare 74

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a delectable five-course seafood menu emphasising the unique flavours and cooking styles of each continent. The promotion runs from 7pm to 11pm and costs BD18 net.

GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3924 2391 for more information.

ELITE RESORT & SPA Al Naseem In a first for the island, Al Naseem is offering a 30-per-cent discount on food and beverages for guests with a valid COVID-19 vaccination record. A great incentive to take up the Government’s offer and help fight the virus. There is also 30 per cent off for everyone on March 30 and a 31-per-cent discount on March 31 or take advantage of the BD10 Super Deal which includes a main course with soft drinks and sheesha or BD17 including selected beverages.

GO: Call 1731 3333 for more information or to make a booking.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY CUT by Wolfgang Puck Chef Wolfgang Puck returns to Bahrain for the Formula One Gulf Air Grand Prix, this time paying an ode to Ma Maison, West Hollywood’s legendary 1970s’ restaurant where Puck’s career as a chef skyrocketed. Ma Maison rebelled against fine dining establishments of the time, ushering in a new era of food culture known as ‘California Nouvelle’. Using ingredients sourced from the local farmers’ markets that highlighted the glory of California's produce and pairing them with French technique, the daring new cuisine attracted celebrities and stars from around the world.

The celebrity chef invites you to dine al fresco as he presents a five-course menu featuring dishes that were made famous at Ma Maison. Take a step back in time to the Los Angeles of the 1970s and get ready for a night to remember! Dinner takes place from 7pm to 11pm on March 26 and costs BD69 net per person.

GO: Call 1711 5045 for more information or to make a booking.

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• DINING DEALS

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

Bay View Spoil your mum for Mother’s Day with a special afternoon tea from executive pastry chef Imad Boukli who has created an exquisite floral-inspired feast to behold, complete with delicate sandwiches, freshly-baked scones, signature mocktails, a choice of 18 looseleaf teas and a flower bouquet to take home. The afternoon tea is available from 12pm to 9pm on March 21 to 22 and costs BD48 for two people.

GO: Call 1711 5000 for more information or to make a booking.

Royal Thai/China Garden Two of the hotel’s most popular restaurants are among those that have moved outside and will be offering Dim Sum Galore, a special all-you-can eat dim sum promotion during March. The date is still to be confirmed but you will be able to enjoy as many of these perfect doughy delicacies as you like for BD15 net (T&Cs apply). Or tuck into house specialities such as Choo Chee Koong, red curry with tiger prawns, or Pla Neung Manao, steamed snow fish, available from the regular menu.

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

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY The Pool Deck Head down to the perfect outdoor poolside venue to enjoy the cool breeze, magical sunsets and majestic views surrounding Bahrain Bay. Indulge in the newly introduced Japanese menu featuring sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls fresh from the sushi chef along with refreshing drinks and DJ tunes. The special menu is available from 6pm to 11pm, Thursday to Saturday throughout March.

GO: Call 1711 5000 for more information or to make a booking.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY CUT By Wolfgang Puck Get your girls together and head to CUT for the Friday Ladies’ Brunch to enjoy delicious dishes crafted by the talented Wolfgang Puck team. Unlimited beverages and your tribe catching up with all the news make for the best brunch ever on the terrace overlooking the great views of our island and Bahrain Bay. Takes place from 12:30pm to 3:30pm every Friday, priced BD34 for food only, with complimentary extended beverages for ladies, or BD48 for the extended beverage package.

GO: Call 1711 5045 for more information or to make a booking.

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GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Sato It’s Sushi Mania! The famous Sato Sushi Day is back and this time it’s outdoors and lasts the whole day! Eat all you can from the sushi and maki selection menu in a pre-booked, two-hour time slot running from 12pm to 12am. This one-day event takes place on March 21 and costs BD15 net. Prestige Club members pay BD13 net and kids aged five and below eat free (T&Cs apply).

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

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Royal Thai/China Garden Take a culinary tour from Bangkok to Beijing with Chef Wasanee and Chef Ding, the master Thai and Chinese chefs at the Saturday Asian Family Brunch. A perfect blend of Asian flavours awaits you with special set menu with mixed appetisers, main course and dessert. It’s all priced at BD15+++ including two beverages.

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

Outdoor dining is now available!

Open everyday from 12 pm - 12 am Located in Adliya - For Reservations Call: 17 715521 or 39301066

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INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Elements & Legendz Mother’s Day is a perfect time to reward your beloved mum for her love and care. Express your appreciation with special deals at InterContinental Regency Bahrain’s outdoor venues on March 21.

For mums who love Asian Cuisine, there’s a special Sushi Brunch with 50-per-cent discount for mothers from 12:30pm to 4pm.

And at Legendz Terrace, mum’s steak is on the house from 6pm to 10:30pm. There’s also a Mother’s Weekend High Tea where you and your mum can enjoy special sweets and finger sandwiches paired with fine tea selections or carefully crafted cappuccino. This runs from 12pm to 4pm, from March 19 to 21 and is priced at BD4.900.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a booking.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY

Takht Jamsheed Head outside to the pool deck, which is now Takht Jamsheed al fresco, to celebrate Iranian Nowruz (Iranian New Year) with a special set menu from March 20 to 23. All the details haven’t been released as yet, but there are bound to be some of the wonderful dishes you’ll find in our review section. Price is to be confirmed.

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

The Palm Lounge Available every day at The Palm Lounge from 2pm until 7pm, enjoy a blissful afternoon together with family or friends on the terrace and indulge in an exciting Berry Afternoon Tea. Pamper your palate over an assortment of bright, berry-flavoured pastries served with delicious savouries and mouth-watering warm scones.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN

JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY

Elements Pool & Lounge Enjoy a relaxed Saturday by the poolside while going on an exotic journey with the all-you-can-eat Asian Brunch served at your table. Dishes include a range of sushi rolls, sashimi, roba, bao and Asian-influenced desserts. Takes place from 12.30pm to 4pm every Saturday, priced at BD16 for the unlimited sushi package, BD19 for the unlimited buffet package, and BD29 for the selected beverages package.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a booking.

Brasserie Royale Take on the T-bone challenge with a full flavoured and tender 1kg Angus T-bone steak at Brasserie Royale Terrace. And the Florentine Beef Tagliata is the perfect option for meat lovers. Good for two people, it is accompanied by your choice of garnish from trufflemashed potato or Oriental saffron rice to sautéed mushrooms along with your favourite sauce. A four-course menu including homemade ravioli and a vanilla crème brûlée is also available for a full Italian experience. The regular menu is BD35 net for two people or BD55 net, inclusive of selected beverages. The four-course set menu costs BD55 net for two people or BD75 net, with selected beverages.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Legendz Steakhouse Legendz has moved outdoors to offer the regular Steak Brunchism every Friday. Enjoy the fresh weather with an exclusive deal on premium cuts, succulent steaks and a buffet for all the family, all served to your table at the poolside. Takes place every Friday from 12:30pm to 4pm and costs BD22 net, with soft drinks, or BD29 net, with selected beverages.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a booking.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Selections Restaurant This chic restaurant offers a wide range of delicious European, Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. The choice is yours – from light, healthy options, such as rocket and pear salad, to mixed grills or lamb chops. If you love fresh-made food, ask the chef to prepare his daily specials. Why not start your day with the special Bahraini breakfast platter served with Karak tea and relax in one of the Elements Pool & Lounge cabanas afterwards? Breakfast is served daily from 9am to 10:30am and costs BD9.500 net per person.

GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a booking.

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GO: WhatsApp 6672 0062 for more information or to make a booking.

GO: WhatsApp 6672 0062 for more information or to make a booking.

JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY BBQ Under the Stars Head down every Thursday and Friday for a memorable night under the stars and soak up the beautiful view while enjoying a delicious variety of barbecued goodies made especially for you by the talented chefs. The offer runs from 6pm to 10pm and costs BD20 per person, including soft drinks.

GO: WhatsApp 6672 0062 for more information or to make a booking.

JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY Brasserie Royale Whether in a business meeting or on a relaxing lunch break, delight in a tasty Mediterranean Business Lunch in the busy Seef District.

Brasserie Royale offers a three-course menu with plenty of delicious options to choose. It runs from 12pm to 3pm, Sunday to Thursday, priced at BD15 net per person.

GO: WhatsApp 6672 0062 for more information or to make a booking.

Your passport to the Samui experience without boarding a plane Tel: 17291133 | Mobile & WhatsApp: 39921313 | Instagram: Samui_bh Timings: Sat – Wed 11 AM – 12 AM | Thursday & Friday 11 AM – 1 AM Address: Shop No: 110, Building 108, Road 79, Block 575, Janabiyah – El Mercado Mall

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• DINING DEALS priced at BD38 net, inclusive of unlimited premium beverages.

You can also catch the big race on the big screens on March 26 while enjoying your favourite bites and beverages.

GO: Call 1746 0017 for more information or to make a booking.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Links Celebrate all things Irish with the Chef’s Special St. Patrick’s Daythemed menu including traditional beef and ale pie available from March 14 to March 21.

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

ROYAL GOLF CLUB MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Poolside Terrace Monday is Seafood Night when you can experience a unique medley of super-succulent delicacies and taste the freshest catch.

Explore a vast range of aquatic specialities from sushi, sashimi, and seafood dim sum to tempura, oysters, slipper lobster, and tiger prawns as well as popular dishes such as grouper and red snapper.

The talented team of chefs will prepare your favourite catch just the way you like it and serve it to your table. Takes place from 7pm to 11pm every Monday, priced at BD25 per person, including soft drinks, and BD30, including selected beverages. Ladies receive a 20-per-cent discount on March 8 in celebration of International Women’s Day. GO: Call 1746 0017 for more information or to make a booking.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Poolside Terrace Flaming Thursday is a great place to meet with friends! Join the weekend theme night every Thursday to enjoy a vast range of grills, flame-grilled meats and sizzling bites served to your table.

Satisfaction is guaranteed and house DJ Cossta will get you in the weekend mood. Takes place from 7pm to 11pm, every Thursday, priced at BD34 net, inclusive of unlimited premium beverages.

GO: Call 1746 0017 for more information or to make a booking.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Poolside Terrace Mother’s Day is a special day to spend at the outdoor poolside terrace. Treat your mum to the special Mother’s Day afternoon high tea and enjoy the lovely weather with some fine pastries and delicious desserts. Taking place on Sunday, March 21, priced at BD18 net for mum and daughter, including unlimited pink sparkling.

GO: Call 1746 0017 for more information or to make a booking.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Poolside Terrace The F1 rush is back! Head on down on March 25 and 26 for an F1themed Flaming Thursday and Friday Brunch. Indulge in a delicious dining experience and take in the thrilling atmosphere surrounding the world-famous motorsport event.

F1-themed Flaming Thursdays is priced at BD34 net, inclusive of unlimited premium beverages and the F1-themed Friday Brunch is 80

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Slice Terrace Sunday is pizza day with buy one get one free on dine-in, takeaway or delivery via Carriage from 12pm. And, on Saturdays, kids eat free with a paying adult all day.

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

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Links Terrace Dine in on the steak stone, from 12pm on Wednesdays, and enjoy a 30-per-cent discount off the steak of your choice. On Fridays, it’s À La Carte brunch running from 3pm to 6pm with unlimited food and selected beverages, priced at BD30.

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

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Saraya Restaurant Fishermen’s Night is the time to enjoy a delectable seafood voyage at Sofitel Bahrain’s award-winning restaurant, Saraya. Set sail with your taste buds across a satisfying selection of gourmet, local seafood delights from live cooking stations and tune in to the latest hits from the hotel’s resident DJ in ALL SAFE settings under Accor’s guidelines and the Ministry of Health’s safety regulations. Runs from 7pm to 11pm on Fridays, priced at BD25 net, including soft drinks, or BD30 net, with selected beverages. There’s also a staycation package at BD69 net inclusive of one night’s stay, dinner and breakfast for two.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a booking.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Saraya, Fiamma & Rivaaj Restaurants The hotel is celebrating women's achievements, raising awareness against bias and taking action for equality in honour of International Women’s Day. There’s a 25-per-cent discount for all ladies during the iconic Grand Friday Brunch on March 5. Toast to the tune of live musical performances by Sweet Havana and savour the tastiest dishes from a lavish international spread with the knowledge that Accor’s ALL SAFE protocols and the Ministry of Health’s safety guidelines are followed strictly. The brunch takes place from 12:30pm to 3:30pm on March 5, priced at BD36 net, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for information or to make a booking.

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SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Saraya, Fiamma & Rivaaj Restaurants Wear green and get 25 per cent off at the Grand Friday St. Patrick’s Brunch. Expect a range of gastronomic surprises as well as some classic Irish dishes and tunes from the live band. The themed brunch takes place from 12:30pm to 3:30pm on March 19, priced at BD36 net, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for information or to make a booking.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Saraya, Fiamma & Rivaaj Restaurants The roaring engines are back and so is the Kingdom’s favourite F1 culinary event. Steer your way through a unique set of international delights at Sofitel Bahrain’s trademark Grand Friday F1 Brunch and let the good vibes roll with some live Latin jams. The brunch takes place from 12:30pm to 3:30pm on March 26, priced at BD36 net per person, including selected beverages.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a booking.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Saraya & Fiamma Restaurants Soak in the idyllic view from Sofitel Bahrain’s terrace and celebrate your special moments under the stars with the Le Garden Brunch du Soir al fresco dining affair. Spoil yourself with the finest selection of international dishes from live cooking stations and sway to the mesmerising melodies played by the resident DJ. The brunch takes place from 7:30pm to 10:30pm on Thursdays, priced at BD25 net per person, including selected beverages. There’s also a great staycation package – book an overnight stay, evening brunch and breakfast for two at BD69.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more information or to make a booking.

THE ART HOTEL Wu Terrace Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with a delicious Irish-themed brunch at WU Terrace in The Art Hotel & Resort. The event runs from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and takes place on March 12, priced at BD23 net per person, or BD30 net with selected beverages.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a booking.

THE ART HOTEL Rosso - The Fountain Treat your mum to a delightful Mother’s Day brunch around The Fountain at The Art Hotel & Resort. Enjoy tastefully selected dishes and live entertainment to make this day extra special. The brunch is from 12:30pm to 4pm on March 20 and costs BD23 net per person, or BD30 net including unlimited house beverages. There’s 50 per cent off for all ladies.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a booking.

THE ART HOTEL Rosso - The Fountain Calling all seafood lovers to the Thursday Fish Market. Enjoy 82

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exquisite flavours from the sea cooked to your liking. The event takes place from 7pm to 10:30pm every Thursday around The Fountain. It’s priced at BD23 net per person, or BD30 net, inclusive of selected beverages.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a booking.

THE ART HOTEL Wu Terrace Feast your senses and enjoy delicious unlimited sushi in the perfect surroundings of Wu Terrace overlooking the water and the nearby marina. Takes place from 7pm to 10pm every Tuesday, priced at BD14 net per person including a selected beverage.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN Nirvana (al fresco) The Great Indian Thali offers the chance to immerse your senses at Nirvana where a culinary journey awaits as the authentic Indian cuisine transports your palate to new heavenly horizons. Available 12pm to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm, Sunday to Thursday, priced BD18 per person, including two selected beverages.

GO: Call 1758 6499 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN Plums (al fresco) Head to the outdoor incarnation of Plums for Steak Night featuring a special Chef’s Menu perfect for a weekend date night. The three-course feast includes the finest cuts of premium beef, cornfed chicken breast and fresh prawns, alongside your choice of appetising starters and decadent desserts. Steak Night takes place from 7pm to 11pm on Thursdays and costs BD32 per person.

GO: Call 1758 6499 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN Cantina Kahlo (al fresco) Get together with friends and family for a taco fiesta at your favorite Mexican Cantina. A wide selection of tacos and craft beverages is available to excite your senses. Ale! Taco Tuesdays take place from 7pm to 11pm and cost BD22 per person, including one special beverage.

GO: Call 1758 6499 for more information or to make a booking.

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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

SUN, SAND AND SAVINGS.

Staycations should always be convenient and enjoyed! Join FACT's Sara Waddah as she unwinds in five-star luxury by golden sands with scenic views, sensibly.

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

L

ocated in the heart of Amwaj Islands, The Art Hotel & Resort welcomes all different age groups with open arms onto the property, with a variety of activities that can cater to everyone.

Upon checking into the hotel, you are welcomed into a grand lobby that will leave you speechless and in awe. With a very quick and easy check-in process, I received the keys to my room for the weekend and was ready for this adventure!

The Art Room offers the best of contemporary furnishings as well as in-room technology consisting of free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffeemakers as well as a minifridge, making sure that my stay is as convenient as possible.

Located on a private section of the beach that overlooks the Gulf, all the room windows of the hotel are sleek and wide — giving guests an astounding view from wherever you are in the hotel.

Goals or what?!

The king-size bed felt close to perfection. With beautifully fresh linen, your body sinks right to the centre, taking you immediately up above the islands and onto a cloud. I promise the sleep in a fact magazine

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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT Promptly on time the next morning, the in-room breakfast was brought in — still hot out the kitchen — and indulged in the comfort of the beautiful bed. If life was a movie, this scene would've been the opening, without a doubt.

Ready to take on the rest of the day, with my appetite ready for more now, at midday I headed downstairs to one of the town’s family-favourite Italian restaurants, Rosso, for an al fresco brunch served by the fountain.

Offering us cold starters, the finest cuts of grilled meat and then their specialities, pizza and pasta, this outdoor brunch set the tone for the rest of the week — carefree, easygoing, fun and delicious! Perfect for those wanting to indulge in some freshlymade Italian food whilst enjoying the sun. With seats carefully organised around the fountain, this also gave parents room to allow their little ones to enjoy the open air whilst keeping an eye on them from a distance.

Newly rebranded, The Art Hotel & Resort remains one of the perfect getaways in the Kingdom of Bahrain. With excellent amenities, a wide variety of different restaurants, activities and scenic views, this hotel makes it close to impossible to turn down, especially with the even more attractive prices and packages. It would make absolutely no sense for you not to check it out for yourself! ✤

hotel room will always hit different! With a very prestigious marble bathroom, this little piece of paradise belonged to me for the next 24 hours — and I was so excited to discover the of other surprises that the resort had in store for me!

Heading down to the private beach, lively chatter and laughter filled the air as different groups enjoyed their time under the sun.

With the help of their super active on-ground team, lifeguards helped coordinate volleyball games, a massive floaty as well as a selection of different water activities that are accessible to anyone staying at the hotel. Did someone also say jet-skiing? I was SOLD! As I enjoyed the afternoon soaking in the sun's Vitamin D, the Wu Lounge (easily accessible from the beach) made sure guests remained hydrated as well as ensuring that our appetite was taken care of with a selection of delectable beach bites. We weren't done with this restaurant just yet though - we even had the chance to join a beautiful Chinese New Year exclusive dinner at which they were able to serve us some of the freshest sushi later on that evening.

Coming to the end of our first day at the resort, the staycation was far from over. Watching the fluorescent lights of the Amwaj Marina lighting up the skyline from the room, it was one of the most relaxing endings to my day.

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

GO: HTTPS://THEARTHOTEL.BH-BAHRAIN.COM/ fact magazine

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ELITE Winter Escape

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel Elite Grande Hotel

Elite Resort & Spa

BD 33 Net

BD 39 Net

Single / Twin Bedroom Suite

Single / Twin Bedroom Suite

BD 60 Net

BD 60 Net

2 Bedroom Suite

2 Bedroom Suite

• Rates are in Bahrain Dinars and Inclusive of taxes and service charge.

• Inclusive of packed breakfast in the suites • Inclusive of Wifi Internet connection • Above rates are applicable till 10th May 2021 * Terms and conditions apply fact magazine Call: +973 17 558 200

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cro@elitegrouphotels.com

www.elitegrouphotels.com

COMFORT AND STYLE

The latest Boss spring collections offer soft pastels, sweet florals and deconstructed design for the ultimate in comfort. fact magazine

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• FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS •

B

OSS revealed an uplifting, colourful and relaxed Spring 21 collection with an outdoor show at the Palazzo del Senato in Milan.

The space holds particular significance for the brand, as the firstever BOSS Womenswear show was held there 20 years ago. This return, two decades on, was an opportunity to celebrate the enduring confidence, elegance, and strength of the BOSS woman, as she moves together with the BOSS man into a whole new era.

The Spring 21 collection captures the current mood within fashion of creativity and renewal, with a focus on craft, colour, and artistry. The work of London-based artist William Farr, which unites flowers with found objects and inspires embroidered and printed pieces, while floral motifs and metal eyelet details are seen throughout the collection.

The show embodied a decisive move towards a more casual look, revealing a sportier, younger vision of the BOSS man and woman. Men’s hoodies, sneakers, drawstring pants, and bomber jackets all made an appearance on the runway. Looks for her featured ruching, eyelets, and utilitarian details.

The BOSS dedication to craft is evident, with many materials sourced in southern Germany, while embroidery and laser-cutting draw the eye to the detail of the pieces.

Simple shorts, wide-leg pants, and super-soft knits lend the collection a more easygoing feel than ever before.

And a refreshing palette of blues, vivid emerald and soft rose enhances this new attitude, along with shades of sand, cream, and forest green.

The collection is almost unisex in nature in that the menswear embraces the same florals and pastels as featured in the women’s offering.

And loose flowing lines give a nod to the current working-from-home culture that has seen us all seeking casual-smart attire that both looks and feels great.✤

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• FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE STORY AT WWW.HUGOBOSS.COM 92

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City Centre Bahrain • Seef Mall • Seef Mall, Muharraq • The Avenues - Bahrain Enma Mall • Wadi Al Sail Mall bathandbodyworksarabia • www.bathandbodyworks.com.bh Customer Service: 8000-1320

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• FOR HER

NEW &

Charlotte Tilbury

Hollywood Flawless Eye Filter Luxury Palettes Makeup artist to the stars, Charlotte Tilbury, adds stunning shades to her new Hollywood flawless filter collection with a luxury eye palette. Housed in a classic square burgundy compact with rose gold detailing, these three new palettes are as stunning on the outside as glamourous and luxurious on the inside. Use them wet or dry depending on how much you want to turn up the volume of the light on your eyes!

Dolce&Gabbana Beauty Felineyes The brand is giving a new meaning to the term ‘cat eyes,’ as it brings a fresh moment of intensity to the eyes, going beyond femininity to embody the iconic look. Felineyes is the perfect fusion of product performance and artful creativity, creating a timeless look full of passion and seduction. The eyeliner creates a sleek and powerful black application, moulding from thin to bold with the twist of a wrist. Additionally, its ink-rich formula offers eight hours of life-proof wear: waterproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-proof.

Foreo LUNA 3 Dig deep into your pores with the LUNA 3 for the ultimate cleansing ritual. From normal skin to sensitive or combination/oily skin, the LUNA 3 has got you covered with a cleansing and firming function tailor-made just for your needs, leaving you with a soft-to-the-touch, smooth and shiny complexion. These simple devices make your night-time routine relaxing but speedy! It only takes one minute to complete the full routine, or two

Make Up For Ever STEP1 PRIMERS You need the perfect primer for that perfect flawless finish. The right match is bound to perfect your skin's texture and tone, which in turn helps you get more professional and longer-lasting makeup results. And MAKE UP FOR EVER brings us nine new primers to choose from. Each is designed to be included in all skincare routines, with personalised treatments formulated to help you embrace your skin’s individuality, boost its confidence, and put its best face forward. All day, every day.

This Works Stress Check – Gentle Wash If your skin is taking on and showing the effects of stress, then you’re not alone. That’s why This Works offers its stress-free range to leave your skin feeling relaxed and calm with the comforting, sulphate-free all over cleanser with Ylang Ylang and Vitamin B5. Take a moment to de-stress and collect your thoughts each time you wash your hands and body worry-free. This soothingly scented wash purifies the skin without stripping it and protects it from drying out however much you use it.

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FOR HIM •

NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

Bulldog Skincare Sensitive Moisturiser Just what your skin needs to tackle the winter winds and sandstorms. This gentle moisturiser is formulated with baobab oil, oat oil and willow

Drunk Elephant

herb, for a non-greasy formulation that’s ideal for

Sweet Biome Fermented Sake Spray

sensitive skin and works to reduce redness and

The cult brand’s latest offering, for both men

irritation. It promises to leave skin feeling refreshed

and women, features a cocktail of fermented

and soft.

sake extract, kombucha, and hops supplying the skin with nutrient-dense substances that restore, soothe, and contribute to a balanced and healthy acid mantle and microbiome. Powerful electrolytes—coconut water and sodium PCA— provide potent antioxidant protection and critical hydration while natural minerals zinc, copper, and calcium gluconate help reduce redness and promote healthy collagen production. Ceramides, vitamin F, and essential amino acids keep skin soft, flexible, and moisturised.

Schick Stubble Eraser Razor Newly relaunched as Schick Hydro Skin Comfort, a flagship of this American favourite’s new lineup allows you to comfortably shave up to seven

Kiehls

days of stubble with less tugging and pulling. The unique deep stubble comb aligns hairs with the

Martiderm

Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

leading blade for a close shave without irritation.

Platinum Expression Gel

A new formulation without alcohol, this gel

Dermatologist tested, this razor is designed for

This unisex wonder-gel helps to fill out and soften

moisturiser for oily-to-normal skin offers 24-hour

maximum comfort with 19 Gel Pools infused with

expression wrinkles in the area around the eyes and

hydration and has a cooling effect to reinvigorate

hydrating green tea to soothe and refresh your

lips. It has a relaxing effect with active ingredients

while helping maintain the skin’s moisture balance

skin. Easy-to-rinse blades have three layers of

that release muscle tension, minimising expression

and regulating excess oil production. The fast-

comfort coating and Skin Guards on each blade for

lines. It acts on the forehead, the eyebrows and

absorbing formulation is quickly absorbed for an

extra protection. This shaving razor for men also

nasolabial folds with a Botox-like effect and is a

instant cooling effect and visibly minimises pores

features a flip-back precision trimmer to edge and

natural alternative to more invasive and expensive

over time.

trim in hard-to-reach places.

aesthetic medical treatments. fact magazine

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Harry and Meghan’s Baby

Captain Tom’s funeral

Beans on…Bix?

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, otherwise known as Britain’s Prince Harry and his American wife Meghan Markle, have announced that they’re expecting a second child. Great news?

You’d think so, right?

But though the initial statement was welcomed by international media, it wasn’t long before the couple were being accused of overshadowing news of the birth of his cousin Princess Eugenie’s first child.

There were even snide remarks about their choice of photograph to

We recently said farewell to Captain Sir Tom Moore, the 100-year-old British former WWII serviceman who won hearts around the world. In April last year, in the run up to his 100th birthday and at the start of the pandemic, he began walking lengths of his garden, with his frame, aiming to raise £1,000 for the UK’s National Health Service.

Word of his quest got out and he became a national and then international hero, far surpassing his original goal – in fact, he actually raised around £39 million! In recognition of his achievement, he was

Beans, beans are good for your heart… we all know the rest of the rhyme, right? We also all know that baked beans, especially those from Heinz, have their allotted place in the world and that’s on toast, right? So, it’s no surprise that indignation, nay fury, and not a little disgust erupted across the Twittersphere at a suggestion that beans should be served on Weetabix biscuits! What the actual?

Weetabix itself was responsible for the Tweet which claimed: “Why should bread have all the fun,

accompany the news – reportedly chosen to highlight their joy at a, so far, healthy pregnancy following an earlier miscarriage.

Move on a few days and it’s further reported that the pair have been stripped of their royal patronages, a move that would have been particularly painful to Prince Harry since it included several honorary military titles much cherished by the former soldier. Again, the mainstream media gloated.

Is it just us or does their decision to step away from royal duties make more sense than ever?

personally knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle.

Unfortunately though, in February, he was hospitalised with pneumonia and then tested positive for Covid-19. He died on February 2.

But, even in death, this super senior is still raising spirits with the news from his family that he requested his headstone should bear the words ‘I told you I was old’ in tribute to one of his favourite comedians, the late great Spike Milligan, whose own epitaph reads ‘I told you I was sick’. Sadly, they don’t make them like that any more.

when there's Weetabix? Serving up Beanz on bix for breakfast with a twist. #ItHasToBeHeinz #HaveYouHadYourWeetabix”.

And, not surprisingly, the response was swift and brutal. Our favourite came from the diplomatic quarter with the US Embassy in London posting: “This is not the US-UK collaboration we were hoping for…” only for the British Embassy in Washington to clap back with: “Strong opinion from the nation that makes tea in a microwave.” Love it.

What’s the strangest food combination you’ve come across?

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ISLAND INSIDER

Faiza Ahmad

Marketing Manager, Jumeirah Royal Saray

You were recently promoted to marketing manager; how will this differ from your previous role and how do you plan to make your mark?

Indeed, I have always strived for excellence in my work towards the brand. I will take on more responsibilities and, of course, greater challenges. I shall assume responsibility over the brand and the delivery of its marketing strategy, meanwhile creating new and innovative plans for the future. My aim is to keep delivering excellence and do justice to the standards set by my predecessors and the stakeholders.

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What would you say are the most impor tant lessons you’ve learnt working in hospitalit y during the ex traordinar y days of the pandemic?

The pandemic has been a challenge for all of us. This has allowed the world to evolve and adapt new ways of working.

What I’ve learned in these times is that when our channels are limited during the restrictions, we can make a great difference by focusing on more suitable channels for the pandemic and capitalising from them.

For visitors coming to Bahrain, what would you recommend as three ‘must see’ locat ions?

For Bahrain, there’s a lot to see. I recommend tourists to always visit central Manama and the market, take a trip to the BIC and lastly, never forget to visit the Tree of Life during sunrise. Also, I would add that more than the locations I would invite all tourists to meet the people of Bahrain, that is where the true value lies, the people of Bahrain!

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