FACT Bahrain September 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 1 BD1

VISUAL DA’AWA: A WORK OF ART-CHITECT fact magazine

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Contents

Dilmonic Expressionism: His Vision

Bahrain Ministry of Interior Commision: Patriot’s Stand

Jewels of Arabia: Z-Axes

rior Commision: Melodic Patriot

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FACT FINDS

FASHION BLOGGERS

FASHION INTERVIEW

A brand new Indian restaurant worth dining out at if you want delish food.

Some of the GCC’s top fashion-lovers and digital influencers share their style.

Simplicity, minimalism and quality - that’s what drives designer Deborah Henning.

Jewels of Arabia: Y-Axes

Al

Dome of the Rock

Alchohol-based markers on paper + Ink

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ARTS Meet the man behind the Visual Da’awa series - art like you’ve never seen it before.

Jewels of Arabia: X-Axes

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GLOBETROTTER

island rides

FACT brings you all the highlights from our recent trip to beautiful Thailand.

Check out what our resident motoring man has been driving this month..

Dilmonic Expressionism: Her Vision

Domed Mosque

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Alchohol-based markers on paper + Ink

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fashion focus

CITI FACT AWARDS

The ultimate AW16 trend report starts right here. Get ready for seasonal inspo!

Back for its 8th edition, we reveal round one of the nominees to get you excited.

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on the menu

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Khaleeji cuisine like you’ve never tasted before - let us introduce to a new food gem. fact magazine

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THE EDITOR

What to Wear?

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” - Rachel Zoe.

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f you find yourself staring at a closet full of clothes and still wondering what to wear (guilty as charged), you’ll know what it feels like to try and nail that perfect sense of style EVERY day. Thankfully, there’s really no better place for on-trend inspiration than the thriving fashion scene in the GCC – after all, the streets are the real runways of the world, and we’ve got plenty of proof. Turn to p25 and meet some of the region’s coolest bloggers who are doing an amazing job of slaying their personal trends and sharing it with thousands of followers.

We also talk with UAE-based designer Deborah Henning about the current fashion market, tips on starting your own brand and why ethics and simplicity are important in such a competitive industry (p41).

If that’s not enough to get your style flowing, there’s a MASSIVE AW16 trend report starting p86 to get you thinking ahead about your seasonal wardrobe. From bright colours to big prints and bold accessories, there’s absolutely something for everyone.

If there’s one reason you’ll have picked up a copy of FACT this month, it’s probably (most definitely) because of the cover. Pretty awesome, right? This unusual but striking piece of work belongs to Bahraini artist Rashed Al-Araifi who looks to all the different sciences as well as social issues for a subject matter to translate into a visual. I sat down for a chat with the man himself and you can read all about his brand new Visual Da’awa series starting p51.

That’s not all, the September issue is packed with travel, tech, hospitality, dining and more on everything you need to know about the next 30 days in Bahrain. Plus, we reveal round one of the 2016 Citi FACT Dining Awards nominees to give you a taste of what’s coming up (p115).

Maybe I’ll spend some time cleaning out my closet for the new season trends. Or, maybe, I’ll jump in my joggers and just continue to admire all the instagrammers who do the whole #OOTD thing really well.☺ Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com 4

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition September 2016 Volume 10, Issue 1

Director Omar Shaheen Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@fact-magazine.com) Creative Director Paula Leal Graphic Designers Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bin Daina Photography Rashed Bin Daina Shobin Joseph Production & Distribution Ajit Kumar Neil Mahmood Country Director Kirsty Edwards-Harris Regional Business Development Director Rami Khalil Sales Director Mayukh Majumdar Contributors Christal Dennis Gareth Woods Georgina Jennsen Sofia Graniello Yvonne Cole Cover Image Rashed Al-Araifi ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0826 E-mail: kirsty@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej

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

STELLA McCARTNEY Saks Fifth Avenue CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN +973 17172000

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SOCIAL MEDIA

twitter

instagram @factmagazine

FACT Bahrain

3,197 followers

@FACTBahrain

Combining all three editions of FACT in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Qatar, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the GCC, plus loads more from the FACT team.

SEPTEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 1 BD1

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Bahrain| First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the city | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrityworld movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Bahrain in local supermarkets now!

VISUAL DA’AWA: A WORK OF ART-CHITECT

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tweets Katie Roberts @ktheddfan This month’s @FACT_Qatar cover knocks it out of the park again this month! #Doha #Qatar #Fact

FACT Abu Dhabi @FACTAbuDhabi @MarlonWayans is in town and we got a sneak peek at what he was getting up to at @FSAbuDhabi this afternoon!

FACT Bahrain

11,240 likes Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine. Send us a message – we love to hear from our readers!

InterCon The City @ICDohaTheCity Just caught an #eevee in our gym! #pokemongoqatar work out hard – play hard! pokemongo #qatar

G @guilstevenson Rebel Without a Job #ReallyLazyMovies

Waleed Al-Kooheji @iamwaleed Some mornings I wake up, take a shower, feel fresh and ready for the day. Then I walk to the car in the heat and it destroys the day.

AUGUST 2016 VOL 9. ISSUE 12 BD1

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Our Fave Feature

SHOPPING BAHRAIN’S BEST MALLS AND FUNKY FINDS.

issuu.com FACT Bahrain

52,171 reads of the August issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Bahrain.

Follow us on twitter and maybe you’ll be here next month! @FACTBahrain 6

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Visual Da’awa p51

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CHECK IT OUT

FaCt Finds

Roti Boti THERE’S ONE MORE BEAUTIFUL VENUE SERVING UP MOUTHWATERING FOOD TO SINK YOUR TEETH INTO THIS MONTH. eNTER ROTI BOTI...

Indian cuisine lovers have one more reason to smile this month as Al Areen Palace & Spa has opened the doors to its brand new dining destination – Roti Boti. Decorated in elegant neutral interiors with an exotic touch, Roti Boti serves up authentic Indian cuisine with a wide range of regional delights served with a modern slant. The restaurant offers a contemporary dining atmosphere with a terraced garden setting; over-looking the main courtyard of the hotel.

Try the delicious appetisers – from chicken and lamb kebabs and tikka to yummy veg samosas and more; and opt for the prawn masala, chicken biryani or exquisite lamb Roganjosh with butter naan, followed by an array of traditional Indian desserts with a Roti Boti twist. This place is sure to be a real foodie contender in Bahrain’s fast-growing culinary scene. ✤ GO: Visit Roti Boti at Al Areen Palace & Spa. Call 1784 5000 for reservations and more information.

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IF YOU CAN�T TELL IT�S USED, IT�S LAND ROVER APPROVED

There has never been a better time to think about owning a Land Rover APPROVED. Enjoy quality and reliability with: - Minimum 2 year Land Rover APPROVED Warranty - Minimum 2 year, 24/7 Roadside Assistance exactly as a new Land Rover would receive as standard - Rigourous testing: A multi-point inspection that covers 165 mechanical, electrical and safety checks - Reconditioned by Land Rover Trained Technicians using the latest Land Rover technology and genuine parts - A certified km check, ensuring the service history is fully up-to-date - A road test by one of our Land Rover Trained Technicians - A professional, expert trade-in service Euro Motors Tel: +973 17 460 460 approved.me.landrover.com/euromotors

Download the LAND ROVER APPROVED Cars MENA App from the Apple or Google Play app stores..

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8/22/16 2:43 PM

Listen up

Pacha Ibiza @ Bushido Pacha World Tour will bring a taste of Ibiza to Bahrain at Bushido Lounge this month! Bushido will be presenting a night of entertainment dedicated to Pacha Ibiza for another impressive nightlife event. Dance the night away to the beats of Pacha’s Resident DJ and enjoy the fascinating entertainment brought to you

by Pacha Go Go dancers who play a key part in Pacha Ibiza’s glamour.

Since 1973 Pacha has put the spark in the Ibiza night-life with an atmosphere of, above all, elegance, without ever forgetting stylistic variety. Built on former marshland, this island disco and its all-night parties have become global 10

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symbols of hedonistic glamour and an icon for dance music culture.

Pacha cherries are recognized worldwide as the number one brand in the nightlife entertainment music industry. Four decades after its first opening Pacha successfully established in counties all over the world and continues with its global expansion.

Pacha Ibiza on tour is set to export the magic and essence of the Ibiza nightlife experience, giving you a taste of what goes on in the white island. An unforgettable musical journey, full of glamour, amazing performances and surprises. Every tour is musically driven by one of the Pacha

official DJs. Pacha Ibiza has become home of great music diversity and all the DJs embrace a wide range of musical style. Now, it’s time to get a taste of Ibiza right here in Bahrain! ✤

WHEN: Thursday 15th September TIME: 9pm ‘til late TICKETS: BD15 for gents, ladies get free entry Supported by DJ Albert Mauri GO: Call 1758 3555 for VIP table reservations and more information.

BORN TO CHALLENGE The First Ever Infiniti Q30 Create your own way. Like the first ever Infiniti Q30.

With its unique design, assistive technology and responsive handling. The others will just have to follow.

To test drive this amazing vehicle, drop by the Infiniti Showroom in Sitra today.

#BornToChallenge

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Listen up

Music First For Belly of Paris

Get Down to Rumbo Norte

Belly of Paris - a multinational baroque six-piece band based in Bahrain have teamed up with Museland Records to release their debut album Peste on November 7. To mark the event the band will be touring the Middle East in November, sharing their unique and fabulous dramatic, baroque, folklorish sound with regional music lovers. Belly of Paris is made up of Anglo-Indo-ArgentinePalestinian-Hungarian members formed by musician Daniel Cochran after moving from the UK to Bahrain. Described as “the sound of a very old, very rich aristocrat slowly wasting away in a crumbling mansion”, Belly of Paris have played in ancient French forts, desert festivals and ridiculously tall hotels during their time in the Middle East. Peste is an album about the ambitious and the resigned; the avaricious and the meek. With imagined characters and themes drawn from history and literature, this is a fatalistic album reflecting uncertain times, driven by Nigo’s bright brass and Prest’s scuzzy tones, marshalled by Sharma and Villarroel, and crafted by Sharabi’s soft soprano and Cochran’s rich, world-weary baritone.

Standout tracks include Hechizado, a portrait of the degenerate last Habsburg King of Spain.; Aristide, again inspired by Zola, is a timely tale of avarice during the second empire of France; and Boys, a warm chord organ-led song inspired by a polaroid of a family friend in Ecuador in the sixties – the song has received radio airplay in the Middle East and UK and was one of the tripleW.me Top 25 Tracks of 2015. Peste will be available on LP, CD and digital download worldwide. ✤

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel has recently welcomed a new band - Rumbo Norte from Columbia. For the first time in the Middle East, the all-girl band with five members; Angie, Marly, Yovonna, Martiza and Luz Esmerald will perform daily (except Saturday) at An Nada Lounge. Live shows during weekdays are from 9:45pm to 12:45am and from 9:45pm to 1:30am during weekends. The band also performs mega hits during the now-famous Friday Chocoholic Brunch from 1pm to 4pm. Good music and a great show is what Rumbo Norte will deliver! Mark an evening out at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel in your calendar. ✤

GO: Visit www.muselandrecords.com for tour dates and more information.

GO: Call 1753 3533 for more information.

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!"#$%&#%'&(")*+,(&"--&./&!*#%&#%'('&0"$12#32($%334&('5)*$'&(/'$*"4( 6&&78&/3*+#&95''&)'%*$4'&$%'$1&./ 6&&95''&05"1'&$%'$1&./ 6&&95''&":$&$%'$1&./ &)"4*-&953;&('/#';0'5&7<&#3&3$#30'5&=7>&?@78 GENUINE PARTS | AUTHORIZED SERVICE | FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIANS ©2016 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Mopar and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC.

/azayani.bahrain /ahmedzayani_bahrain www.ahmedzayani.com Showroom Timings: Sat - Thurs, 8am - 7pm

CALL NOW 17 238822 fact magazine

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Listen up

Abstractionin-Mind ARTDIVANO gallery and Akkas Gallery will be hosting a joint venture of creativity, holding in cooperation an exhibition of absolutely stunning artworks by Amal Deyhle. The exhibition, titled AbstractionIn-Mind, is a collection of painting knife executed works in oil on canvas and is proudly held under the patronage of HE the German Ambassador to Bahrain Mr. Alfred Simms-Protz. The expo opens on September 21 at 7pm and will run until September 26, available for public viewing from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm, at Akkas Gallery in Saar. ✤ GO: Visit either www.artdivano.com or www.akkasgallery.com for more information.

John’s Camera: The Photography of John Grummit A beautiful collection of photographs taken by Bahrain-based photographer John Grummit will be on display at InTouch Gallery within the InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Centre this month. John has always loved photography but very much regrets that he didn’t follow through on his love of it as a teenager. This expo is way of coming to terms with that regret and making the most of the time he has left. John’s photography has two main influences. Firstly, he studied architecture as an undergraduate. Although he hated the intense competitive pressure of the course, it taught him to see light and form in ways that most people do not. Secondly, since he first left his native UK at the age of five, he’s visited nearly 80 countries. This constant introduction to places he’s never seen has given John the ability to grasp the essential elements of a location quickly. Having been in Bahrain since 2013, John’s work has amassed and was curated by none other than Stafford & Sharabi Art Consultants, for all to marvel at InTouch Gallery. On display will be his Vanishing Bahrain photograph and many more striking images. ✤ GO: Visit www.staffordandsharabi.com or www.intouchclinic.com/gallery for more information.

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0% DOWN PAYMENT* 10 YEARS OR 1 MILLION KMS WARRANTY* *Terms and Conditions apply

17 703 703 17 465 533 fact magazine

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Listen up

The Domain Hotel & Spa’s Luxury Feat A congrats are in order for The Domain Hotel & Spa, which is now the only 5-star hotel in Bahrain to be featured on the popular and prestigious global platform, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, which is a collection of independent hotels and experiences from around the world, available to find and view online at www.preferredhotels.com.

The Domain Hotel & Spa has gone a step further in this great acknowledgement as the renowned website has added the beautiful property to its LVX Collection, which according to the site is a special group made up of “Refined and globally sophisticated hotels and resorts in coveted locations.

Being at the helm of such a great recognition must be an exciting prospect. Mr Frank Normann Eikeland, General Manager at The Domain Hotel & Spa, says: “The hotel is special as all the design and work was mostly done by Bahraini companies and workers.

The hotel was raised during tough times in Bahrain, and the owner, Faisal Matrook, was crystal clear in his decision to make sure all work and interior of the hotel was made and done in Bahrain, to support the city and country during challenging times.

And every detail really was well-though out, as Frank continues: “To make sure parking is no issue, the first eight floors of the Domain is dedicated to parking.

Two full floors are dedicated to our award-winning spa, where one floor is dedicated to ladies only. From 17 up to 33 you have the rooms and suites in order to give guests the best view overlooking the city,” he says.

And the three top floors are dedicated to our awardwinning Japanese restaurant Imari and the Steak house Le Sauvage, with the top view being from Txoko Bar and Lounge. In this hotel, views overlooking the city are given first priority, while luxury, design and comfort is guaranteed,” he adds.

People have fallen in love with The Domain Hotel & Spa for its culmination of all the things Frank has mentioned, but also for its mesmerising interior and dedicated, friendly and attentive staff. We’re huge fans of the Vie Lifestyle Lab spa and the very grown-up Friday Brunch – well done to The Domain Hotel & Spa - keep the good work! ✤ GO: Visit www.thedomainhotels.com for more information.

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A seafood night with a difference Enjoy a seafood experience like no other, every Thursday from 7pm, for BD16++ / BD25++, with our 3 themed dining concepts; The Wharf, The Hawaiian Beach Bar and the French Quarter. Feast on the freshest seafood prepared just the way you like it with our live BBQ, sushi bar and cooking stations plus live music entertainment.

For more information please call +973 16000111 Terms & conditions apply. *Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 10% government levy

P. O. Box 50949, Amwaj Islands, Bahrain, T: +973 16000111, art.hotel@rotana.com

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Listen up

Fisherman’s Voyage Enthusiasts for fruits de la mer, will feel excited by Art Rotana’s latest offering. Dubbed as the “seafood extraordinaire” Choices Terrace features the most expansive variety on the island…

Imagine a hotel brunch, and then imagine it filled with the most delicious assortment of fresh seafood that your eyes have ever feasted upon.

When ART Rotana indulges us with one of their theme nights, they really go all out.

Creativity abounds as Choices restaurant is transformed into a veritable oceanic cruise across the globe that will enchant all your senses. You’re invited to embark on a bountiful mariner’s voyage of discovery stretching to the four corners of the world, whilst taking pleasure in refreshing island drinks and live entertainment throughout the evening.

The buffet comprises of tantalising hors d’oeuvres, smoked and marinated fish, dim sum, various soup and seafood Laksa press pots, Western and Arabic mains, cuisine from the wok, Indian tandoor and pizza, as well as a salad bar, Arabic mezze and yuumy selection from the bakery.

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Live stations on the terrace include an amazing raw seafood bar with condiments, freshly prepared sushi and sashimi from WU master chefs, and the seafood paella.

Most noteworthy to highlight are the freshly flown in oysters, currently from France, Holland and the UK alongside the fresh black mussels from Holland, which are cooked to order and served at your table - perfect for sharing!

The fish market is also an experience notto-be-missed; select your favourite seafood displayed on a bed of ice, then have it grilled on the barbeque to your liking, choosing from a variety of specialty sauces.

If you still have room, satisfy any sweet tooth cravings and savour the delightfully sweet dessert selection, the ice-cream station and the chocolate fountain and fruits section. There’s absolutely something for everyone at this weekly themed night. ✤

Timing: Thursdays, 7pm to 10.30pm.

Price: BD30 net with selected beverages / BD20 net for softies.

Location: Choices Restaurant, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands.

Email: fb.art@rotana.com or call 1600 0111.

MARHABA

MODERN EAST Authentic Khaleeji cuisine with a Western twist.

A new restaurant concept at the Westin Bahrain City Centre, Furn is a unique experience of the heart and soul. Enjoy authentic Khaleeji flavours, enhanced and transformed by contemporary surroundings and a modern presentation style.

For more information or reservations please call +973 17171441

@furnbahrain

#furnbahrain

furnbahrain.com

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HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About This Month in Bahrain Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with great outings just for you!

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WEDNESDAY

SATURDAY

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

SATURDAY

This eye-opening festival will give you the opportunity to explore everything Thai, from the fabulous food to the fascinating culture through a range of special entertainment.

Get ready to experience Thai traditions like never before, from Sept 6 to 11, 7pm to 11pm. BD18.

Ensure you are relaxed for the start of a new week by indulging in a massage. The heated lava stones promote circulation, relieve stress and induce calm; a perfect way to set you up for Sunday! There’s no better way to get your relaxation fix to. BD35 for 75 mins.

Wahine Tuesday, one of the island’s most popular evening’s out is back after the summer break and is better than ever.

Grab your girlfriends and make your way to the lively ladies night at Trader Vic’s. Women enjoy free entry and drinks, including the famous Tiki Puka Puka!

Pair up the steak of your choice with seafood ranging from tiger prawns to calamari, or crayfish tails! This amazing foodie feat is perfect to indulge in two culinary loves; meat and seafood all in one.

Perfect for starting your weekend with good grub in a lively atmosphere.

Sooth and rejuvenate dry skin with this cooling and refreshing whole-body treatment.

This invigorating scrub will remove dead skin cells, brightening as well as firming the skin.

Perfect for a mid-week pick me up in this humid climate. BD30 for 60 mins.

Thai Food Festival Hot Stone Massage at Saraya, Sofitel Bahrain at Sheraton Fitness Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Call 1763 6363 for more info.

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Call 1753 3533 for more info.

WAHINE TUESDAY Ladies Night at Trader Vic’s/Mai Tai

Call 1758 6555 for more info.

Surf ‘n’ Turf Night at Links, Royal Golf club

Call 1775 1262 for more info.

Lavender Peppermint Scrub at Rimal Spa, Mövenpick Hotel, Bahrain

Call 1746 0051/2 for more info.

ENJOY THE UNIQUE TRATTORIA MODERNA CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Immerse in a gastronomic mastery

by Two Michelin starred Chef Oliver Glowig.

Experience the authentic tastes of Italy as our Italian Ladies and Gentlemen take you on a culinary journey like no other.

T 1758 9316

Primavera Trattoria Moderna

primavera_trattoria_moderna #primaverabh fact magazine

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HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About This Month in Bahrain Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with great events just for you!

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MONDAY

THURSDAY

SUNDAY

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY

Sushi lovers, listen up!

Grab all the freshly prepared sushi you can get your hands on, as well as miso soup and salad, at Ruka every Monday from 7pm onwards. There’s plenty of choice, catering to all tastes and culinary cravings! For BD15++ it’s well worth it.

Check out some of the best aircrafts that have cemented the long-standing aviation relationship between the UK and Bahrain.

From RAF planes to the famous concorde, admire and learn all about this special relationship between the two nations at this fascinating expo.

Start your week by sampling the gastronomic delights of Italy. Famed for being the best cuisine on the planet, Italian dishes will be aplenty at this buffet-style dining event.

Pizza, pasta and salads all for BD14.551 (food only) from 7pm onwards.

Foodies, mark this one!

Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience which sees your skin detoxed and left refreshed. As well as the wrap, you’ll receive a scalp massage, full body massage and a foot massage - a real indulgence! Ideal to combat mid-week stress!

BD90 for 120 mins.

Start the month at this amazing Friday Brunch with a lavish international buffet, live grills and delectable desserts, as well as kids activities, a henna artist, fortune teller and a photo opportunity with a falcon. BD14net (adult), BD6net (kids aged 11 and under).

Unlimited Sushi Spitfire at the Monday’s at Ruka, Museum Exhibition at Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Bahrain National Museum

Call 1711 1999 for more info.

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Call 1729 8714 for more info.

Italian Night AT La Mosaique Restaurant Crowne Plaza, Bahrain

Call 1753 1122 for more info.

It’s a Wrap AT The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Call 1758 6808 for more info.

Family Friday Brunch Poolside at Elite Resort & Spa

Call 1731 3333 for more info.

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SOCIETY

#Bahrain #Summer #Festival #Closing #Ceremony

Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) held the closing ceremony for the 2016 edition of Bahrain Summer Festival, at Al Nakhool Tent located at Bahrain National Musuem. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mega line-up saw the best local and regional talents covering arts, music, TV, poetry and performance entertain visitors as well as a wealth of events and activities for families and little ones to enjoy. The closing ceremony thanked the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsors and guests for joining in and supporting the fantastic summer events.

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THE FASHION BLOGGER CHRONICLES FA C T M E E T S S O M E O F T H E R E G I O N ’ S B E S T FA S H I O N B L O G G E R S T O TA L K ST R E E T - ST Y L e , au t u m n winter 2 016 trends and what it ’ s like to be A digital i n fl u e n cer i n t h e gcc . G E T R E A D Y T O M A K E A N O T E I N Y O U R S T Y L E D I A R Y. . .

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

“With all of the perks that come with the blog, it’s important to point out that I wouldn’t have reached to this point without the undying support of my beloved followers and readers.”

PAUL RAMOS

Photography by Kieth Walter and Mark Ross Argana

@THESTYLECHOREO ABU DHABI, UAE

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ot only do we find his blogger name catchy, we also love that Paul, a.k.a The Style Choreo, is one of the most consistent and active men’s fashion bloggers in the region. His everyday getup is a smart mix of edgy and corporate, blending both street casuals and office formals. “Honestly, my style is a little bit of everything,” Paul says. “I think it appeals to my readers and followers, simply because men are becoming more conscious about what to wear and they need something or someone to rely on.” And reliability is definitely key with Paul’s fashion persona, as he’s got nearly 30k insta followers keeping an eye on his style choices.

H&M is one of Paul’s favourite fastfashion brands: “They always have amazing pieces that are always on trend and most of all you can look like a million dollars without breaking the bank,” he explains.

He’s also a fan of Zara’s more savvy designs for men, and British brand F&F (where he currently works as the visual merchandiser).

Even though we don’t really get a proper 26

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autumn/winter season here, it’s important for Paul to shine a spotlight on some of the best trends for the cooler months ahead. “I showcase looks on my blog and social media channels,” he shares. “Outfit inspirations highlighting pieces that can be worn during the season, like the camel trench coat, Chelsea boots, knit scarves, and double breasted suits in wool which are impeccably dapper.”

Where the regional female fashion

blogger world is bursting at the seams, Paul’s distinct advantage is, simply, that he focuses on men’s attire and that he does it well. He believes that the fashion scene in the GCC is rapidly catching up with more mainstream trends, something he suggests could be a result of events and initiatives like Fashion Forward Dubai, Vogue Italia Fashion Experience, and influences from the wider fashion blogger community.

You’ll often find Paul posting from his latest staycation spot in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, or talking about a special collaboration with a brand, getting access to press previews, or even trying out the newest food menus in town – it’s clear that fashion is a way of life for him, and his blog - www.thestylechoreo. blogspot.com - is your insight into this lifestyle.

“With all of the perks that come with the blog, it’s important to point out that I wouldn’t have reached to this point without the undying support of my beloved followers and readers,” Paul says.

And as if his humble attitude wasn’t enough, The Style Choreo’s advice for budding fashion bloggers will have you clicking that follow button SO fast. He says: “Credibility, passion and dedication are the main key. Do what you love and love what you do!” Preach! ✤

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

BANA ABUJABER @SIDENOTEBANAA AMMAN, JORDAN

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n a world of incredible fashion freedom it can be difficult to find your own sense of style, and to stay true to it. But Bana Abujaber has got it just right. She’s cool, confident, style-savvy and knows exactly what she wants – to wear, that is. “My personal style is definitely mixing and matching high and low fashion,” she says. “It’s aimed at showing my followers just how easy it is to look good and feel good everyday, no

matter what you’re doing, where you’re going or what your budget is. What makes me appeal to my readers and followers is that I’m definitely relatable and the things I post about are easily accessible.”

This we can easily see through Bana’s numerous collabos with local boutiques in Amman as well as her #OOTD combos of designer brands with high-street faves. Her three go-to accessories are chokers, below the waist belts and her Gucci Soho leather disco bag – yes, this young lady is slaying in the style stakes, but, surprisingly, Bana’s vision and popularity as a fashion blogger 28

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took time and grassroots effort to grow.

“I faced a lot of challenges as three years ago the social media scene wasn’t as powerful in Amman as it was abroad and a lot of people just didn’t understand the concept of a blogger,” Bana recalls. “So it was tough trying to break those barriers especially when it came down to persuading brands to partner up with me. It took a really long time to create a name and have that name be considered as one of the best fashion influencers in Jordan,” she adds.

Now that Bana’s hard work has paid off and her street cred is intact, she’s enjoying

the growth and recognition of the Middle Eastern fashion industry: “Many new designers have emerged and are hungry for blogger collaborations and vice versa,” she says. “At the same time the industry is quite small, which makes it easy to connect with the right people.”

Bana’s experience of interning at a fashion PR agency in New York followed by gaining a fashion marketing degree from Parsons New School for Design have, no doubt, given her the knowledge and skills to run her blog – www.sidenotebanaa.com – which has gained her the nomination for Blogger of the Year by Living Well magazine in Jordan.

When asked what her favourite high-street brands are, Bana gets straight to it: “Zara, of course! No need to explain here,” she says. “& Other Stories has definitely become one of my favourite fast-fashion brands. Anything you wear from there, makes you look super polished. I also love that they have really cool jewellery, cosmetics and shoes.” She also can’t survive a single fashion season without Topshop denim - we don’t blame her!

Well-versed in all things trendy, Bana is looking forward to the velvet, prints and coloured fur trends for the upcoming AW16 season, and just like her dedicated 10k+ followers, we’ll be keeping a watchful eye on her insta feed to see how she incorporates these looks into her everyday style. ✤

“Many new designers have emerged and are hungry for blogger collaborations and vice versa.”

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

ALI AL BANA @IMALIALBANA BAHRAIN

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here’s something to be said about passion, talent and natural flair when you’re designing your own collection at the age of 14 to participate in a fashion week. For Ali, this was his reality when Bahrain – as small as it may be – hosted its own fashion week back in 2010. It was here that he won first place in the emerging talent category, however, it was also this same event that caused Ali to realise the challenges within a relatively small market. After juggling school with producing a collection, and facing a lack of financial support, Ali decided that his best, most feasible and practical way of keeping a foot in the fashion world, was to write about his style experiences and reviews, and so came www.imalialbana.com.

He describes his personal style as: “Imagine a male version of the late Isabella Blow, may she rest in peace, on a budget. My style revolves around emotional provocation, and I find that it appeals to my readers and followers because, in the words of Isabella Blow, ‘People want to look, they want to be amused’.”

It’s no surprise then that Ali’s three go-to accessories for a trendy day-to-evening look are a black leather murse (the fashionable term for a ‘man bag’), a classic, statement 30

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watch, and three personalised bracelets. Ali’s cool and contemporary style definitely has his own personal touch, but when he does go out on the prowl for the next big fashion buy, he likes to shop at Cos for its minimal and beautiful, almost buttery fabric; French brand Kenzo for its Parisian chic niche, and H&M’s Conscious Exclusive and Studio collections.

Ali’s the first to admit that being a blogger still comes with its challenges. “People need to understand that what bloggers do isn’t easy, and it’s not to be taken lightly,” he explains. “It’s not just about taking photos and coming up with captions, nor is it about getting dressed up for an event where the goody bag contains a USB or a key chain that’s as big as your phone with the designer’s initials on. It’s a lifestyle and it’s hard work,” he adds. “And overcoming this main challenge is still in the works.”

On the other hand, being a male fashion blogger has also allowed Ali to learn new things in a new way. “Be it from applicable fashion sense, to the way people perceive your elaborate articles and interests,” Ali says. “You acknowledge the stability of your confidence. I mean, sure, all the flashes from the media can be an ego booster but being comfortable in your own shoes, that’s what you figure out and get accustomed to.”

For AW16, Ali wants to see more risks being taken with leather harnesses, backpacks, murses and structured jackets for men - “A little bit of kink never hurt anyone, yeah?” he says, playfully.

Perhaps his most poignant piece of advise to budding bloggers is something so apparent in his own work: “Create content with an educated perspective. Don’t just follow a hype and don’t rely on fluff. Know your content, research, and develop it,” he advises.

It’s this very reason why Ali’s 2k+ insta followers have grown to love his humble, provocative and utterly unique approach to fashion. Watch this space, we predict big things in the fashion future for Ali! ✤

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

CHIARA AMODEO @BONJOURCHIARA DOHA, QATAR

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robably one of the most fun fashion bloggers in the region, Chiara doesn’t always take herself seriously, and this is also an element of her lively style. “My style is girly, quirky, feminine and colourful,” she says. “It’s a mix of designer pieces, high street brands and creations from new talents.

I like playing with clothes, accessories and colours but always putting together outfits that are really wearable,” Chiara adds. “I think my followers love my style for that.”

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There are two trends that have already caught Chiara’s attention for the AW16 season embroidered clothes and velvet shoes. And where is she picking up the pieces to put these looks together? “I love Zara because it always has the power to catch the latest trends and make them affordable,” she explains. “The quality is also pretty good. I’m also a big fan of Topshop’s shoes and I like buying basic pieces and jewellery from & Other Stories.”

Chiara loves the multiculturalism that is present in Doha, with people from all over the world living and working in the city. “This inspires me so much,” she says. “And it also influences my idea of fashion. Furthermore, the fact that the country is growing so fast and that the blogger scene isn’t developed as much as neighbouring countries, creates a lot of opportunities.”

It has worked to Chiara’s advantage that her blogging journey started at a time when sharing fashion tips and advice online and through social media, wasn’t really a BIG deal in Qatar. Now, she’s amassed 17k+ followers through her blog www.bonjourchiara.com and is one of the most well-respected female fashion bloggers in Doha. This, however, does come with its challenges. “Sharing outfits in this weather and with certain cultural rules makes it hard, sometimes, to choose the right look,” she explains. “You’re not totally free to wear what you want or sometimes there are trends that you can’t follow here even if you wanted to. I like turning this challenge into an opportunity to build up a look that is respectful of rules but stylish at the same time,” Chiara says.

Her enthusiasm and adoration for fashion in the Gulf is also a creative drive for Chiara.

“I’m constantly impressed by the talents of GCC-based designers,” she says. “For example, Saudi designers are so sophisticated and chic, and they really create haute couture pieces. While UAE-based designers are glamourous and they know how to rock the street style scene. In general, I think GCCbased designers are amazing at mixing traditional details with modern trends.”

Chiara’s most useful piece of advice has to be: “Don’t be scared, no one is an expert at the beginning,” she admits. “You’ll improve your skills and learn so much with time. But what really matters is to find your own voice and your own style. Be different and you’ll be successful.” Amen to that! ✤

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

USHI SATO @THESHADESANDSCARF DUBAI, UAE

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hen Ushi left the Philippines for Dubai eight years ago, his role as an assistant designer for a local fashion house was exciting and interesting not only for him, but for his family and friends back home as well. So, the idea of having one place where he could share his fashionable experiences and whereabouts naturally led to the creation of his blog www.theshadesandscarf.com. “The main content of The Shades and Scarf is all

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about my personal love affair with fashion,” he says. “But as the blog evolved over the years, it also now discusses interesting topics about arts, shopping, lifestyle and travel.”

Fashion has been the foundation of Ushi’s career and his blog is a fancy curation that works as a representation of his personal style. “I’m a maverick in terms of style choices,” Ushi tells us. “I know when to take risks and when to be a minimalist. I love to mix and match the old and the new, the simple and the bold. And storytelling through clothes is what I love to do,” he adds. You can see this throughout Ushi’s insta and blog posts – there’s colour, creativity and a canvas for distinctive trends. “I share well researched posts and most of the topics are relevant, informative and relatable,” he says. Something his 5k+ followers really value.

With Dubai having quite a saturated fashion

blogger scene, Ushi manages to stand out by always embracing the advantages that his digital platform has to offer. “Being a blogger, I have the freedom to share an independent perspective to influence and inspire readers and followers,” he explains.

“You’re able to share your passion and connect with others, and show them to be positive about their sense of style.”

Ushi also loves the fashion in this region, describing it as “young and adventurous.

It stand’s out because there’s a defined taste of elegance yet there’s also a hint of playfulness.” It’s all about accessories for Ushi, who admits that he doesn’t actually spend much on clothes. “I’m more practical in terms of shopping, that’s why fast fashion with great quality and reasonable prices is perfect to rely on,” he shares. “I do shop in H&M, Topman, River Island and Gap. I like how most of their products look basic but you can create a different vibe by playfully styling the pieces.” See, it IS possible to look uber on-trend without spending your whole salary on clothes!

It’s also no surprise that for AW16, Ushi is looking forward to the different accessories like hats, caps and scarves, ready to hit the high street. “With accessories your whole wardrobe can embody a different mood,” he says. “It’s also one of the fashion staples that men can easily pull off.” On that, we agree!

On surviving in the busy blogger world, Ushi advises: “Be consistent and original and know your target readers. Do it because you’re happy doing it.” It’s this postive outlook that we’re sure will keep The Shades and Scarf going for many years to come! ✤

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

Ashwathy Shyamkumar @askthestylecouncil BAHRAIN

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ne look at Ashwathy’s insta profile and you’ll see just how fashion-oriented this beautiful young lady is. Her personal style is a reflection of her mood, and over 8k followers get an insight into this every day. “Some days I’m in trainers, leggings and an oversized tee and some days you’ll catch me in six inch heels with well tailored dresses,” Ashwathy says.

Photography by @Lenssway (instagram)

Her blog – www.askthestylecouncil.com – was initially started with a friend and only discussed designs and trends, but Ashwathy’s strong passion for all-things fashion, food and beauty led to a more focussed progression into the lifestyle arena. Her biggest challenge is actually not being able to do more shoots and coverage for the blog due to her full-time job. She only has weekends to delve into the creative side. Still, Ashwathy manages to strike a chord with local and regional fashionistas who look to her everyday style for inspiration.

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“stay focused, be passionate, don’t just do it for the freebies, learn to ignore the negative comments...

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF.” “I love that I get good responses from my readers; it’s what keeps me going,” she says. “I love the fact that I can inspire them and give them tips on styling without spending too much money.

“I want to be the kind of blogger they can look at and say – “She’s slaying in that jacket, I want to own it too” – and just

like that, they can!” Ashwathy explains.

Some of her favourite high street brands include Mango, Quiz, Topshop, and Zara, and she’s excited for the Sports Luxe trend, which incorporates boxy slogan tops, fun prints and relaxed trousers, to come in for the AW16 season. “The looks are getting more androgynous and I love the fact that trainers can be worn with anything and everything,” she says.

But it’s not just street style that Ashwathy admires, she loves the mix of Arabic and western trends in the Gulf. “Modest bloggers even show us how to look stylish without showing skin,” she tells us. “Now that’s really something and I think the Middle East has so much to offer in the fashion scene. What’s even better is that we have Vogue Arabia coming out soon.

It’s about time,” she adds.

One of the best experiences for Ashwathy, which came as a result of her blog and following, has been the chance to become the brand ambassador for two noted brands in Bahrain – last year it was Gloss Salon & Spa, and this year it’s Hunkemoller.

And if you want to follow in her fashion footsteps, Ashwathy advises to “stay focused, be passionate, don’t just do it for the freebies, learn to ignore the negative comments” and, perhaps the most important thing, “believe in yourself.” ✤

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FASHION SPOTLIGHT

ELMIRA KAHROBAIE @ELMIRASWORLD doha, Qatar

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lmira’s love affair with fashion started many years ago when her mother would make her cute dresses from Borda Magazine and her father would bring home new clothes and shoes for her, from his travels overseas. And it just so happens that Elmira’s journey into the blogosphere was somewhat accidental as much as it was coincidental. “I started posting pictures of my new shoes, or a selfie of what I was wearing, on instagram, tagging #Doha #Qatarfashion, and that’s when everything started,” she recalls. It’s safe to say that the power of hashtags is very real!

Elmira’s everyday style is a mix of sport chic and modern classic, and you’ll see from her posts just how much she loves colour and prints. “Fashion is a way to express and experiment,” she says. “You can still look glamorous in jeans; you don’t need to match your shoes and bag, and if it’s risky then risk

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it, because that’s going to be YOUR style.

“The best way to accessorise, for me, is with prints, fabrics and details. I believe my followers appreciate my way of putting looks together and the idea of how to do certain things, because I always share how to do it in my own way,” she adds.

Elmira’s fashion individualism really does make her stand out in what has become an overcrowded digital world where #OOTD sis everyone’s go-to tag for style inspiration (and admiration).

She’s come a long way from the days of the useful hashtags, which have gained Elmira a loyal following of 5k+ instagrammers. So, does she face any challenges? “Definitely.

Expressing and satisfying people with different nationalities and styles as well as accepting the different culture is not always an easy thing, but I found that the best way to overcome this is to keep doing what you really love,” she says.

On the other hand, Elmira really adores and believes that it is the very culture in the Gulf that feeds the many creative fashion minds.

“The uniqueness of the fashion in the Gulf region and lots of creative minds, especially the local designers is incredible,” she says.

“They make amazing clothes, for example, abayas designed to make every woman want to own one. The type of fabrics and prints and the beautiful accessories is what I always enjoy in this region,” Elmira adds.

For AW16, Elmira wants to see lots of shiny fabrics, metallic and silvers, velvets, greens and chokers – well, if our trend report is anything to go by, her fashion stars have proved lucky!

If that fashion forecast wasn’t enough to show how on top of her game Elmira is, then take her advice instead: “Express your signature style. Find it. Build it. There are always lots of others but no one like you.” ✤

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SOCIETY

#Snakes #and #Ladders #at #City #Centre #Bahrain

City Centre Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of the worldwide classic board game Snakes and Ladders was enjoyed by friends and families: the game featured Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history through iconic miniature landmarks of the Kingdom. Players were able to get educated about Bahrain, all while enjoying the thrill and competition and the chance to win exciting prizes. To participate, visitors simply had to spend BD30 in shopping, dining, or entertainment at City Centre Bahrain to receive a participation coupon. Players had a chance to win exciting prizes from the participating retailers in addition to the weekly prizes of BD1,000 in gift cards.

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MEET DEBORAH HENNING fact magazine

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FASHION interview

L i v i n g yo u r dream after working for over a decade to ac h ie v e yo u r fas h io n goals is e v ery yo u n g desig n er ’ s wis h and for D eb o r ah H ennin g it ’ s become a realit y after her mo v e to D u bai fo u r years ago . Here , s h e tells FA C T ’ s S habana A dam abo u t h er ow n mi n imalist collectio n , w h y ethics in fashion is important and what it really takes to get to where she is toda y …

W

hen you’ve worked for noted brands like Alexander McQueen and Ghost in one of the world’s biggest fashion capitals, it can either prepare you to take on the industry or throw you off completely.

Luckily, for Deborah Henning, her experience in London and also with Sass & Bide in Australia was an invaluable learning curve that has helped her to create a beautiful, fresh collection. “The right kind of experience is super important,” Deborah says. “For me, it was always my ambition to start a brand and learning all the skills needed to do this allowed me to develop the kind of brand that I wanted.”

But, this wasn’t always the case as Deborah had previously launched a brand under the same name in London, back in 2007. “It was like prints and colour and dresses, and silks,” she recalls. “Basically the polar-opposite of what I do now. I was young and I wanted to make nice things for girls.” Fast-forward seven years and Deborah’s new line of clothing has a defined contemporary and edgy look. “When I moved here, I’d matured as a designer and took two years to figure out the market in Dubai and exactly what I wanted and what the customers wanted.”

The result is a minimalist line that uses three of fashion’s most simple and chic colours; black, white and grey. “Again, the polar-opposite of the city I’m in,” Deborah smiles. “But it’s worked quite nicely as it’s come at a time when people want something fresh and new, clean and simple, that can still be luxury and still be contemporary. For me, it’s a lifestyle brand.”

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i t ’ s tak e n D e b o ra h s o m e s e r i o u s h o u rs a n d h ard w o rk t o g e t t o t h i s stag e . “ I was n ’ t b u i lt for anything e l s e , I was mad e to do this.”

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Style is not the only thing that’s different in Dubai, so is the fashion business. Where designers face heavy competition in places like London and Paris to get the attention of magazines, stores, bloggers, and even customers, Dubai has its pros for up and coming brands. “Here, the media and the stores are easier to get in touch with, to speak to and they’re a bit more open,” Deborah tells us. “Stores like my brand because it’s contemporary and offers flexibility; the quality is good enough to wear a piece in the daytime, to then style a top with a necklace for the night time, and it’s also comfortable and cool to travel in.”

All of these mix and match elements infused in a playful, adrogynous collection, with the option to dress your Deborah Henning piece up or down, is something that the brand’s customers have fallen in love with.

Next to the pros, there are some challenges with launching a brand out of Dubai too.

“This business is a bit of the wild west here, in 44

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that people work differently and it’s probably not as organised as other places,” Deborah shares. In order to keep the balance, she advises: “The strategy, the mind set, the time scale, everything – you have to really be on it, really hassle people and really know what you’re doing. You have to be dedicated to doing it the right way.”

Quality is of the utmost importance to Deborah and she has spent the past two years sourcing the best fabrics from the UK, Italy, Japan and Hong Kong. “For me, it’s about all things working in unity,” Deborah says. “The clothing has to be well-designed, has to be fashion-forward, and has to have incredibly good quality fabric and stitching.”

It’s utterly refreshing to hear Deborah talk about certain issues in the fashion industry that many high-end designers and fast-fashion brands find too sensitive to address. “Fast fashion can be a complete designer killer because they take what’s on the runway and some produce it to a decent

quality,” Deborah says. “Even I wear Zara, H&M and Cos. I think my customer is the type of girl who really buys into the quality of my brand, but who might team one of my pieces with Zara trousers, for example. And that’s ok.

“I do appreciate slower fashion though, from a conservative point of view,” she continues.

“My problem isn’t with what fast-fashion brands produce but how it’s produced and how they run their business, in terms of working conditions and pay for factory workers and the amount of fabric and clothes that go to waste. That’s my major issue.”

Suppliers are put under pressure to produce cheaper, quicker, faster, and stronger – something that Deborah doesn’t condone from an ethical perspective. She uses organic cotton and sustainably-sourced material; she regularly visits the factory that makes her clothing to check that workers’ conditions are good, that they’re paid at least minimum wage and, most of all, that they’re happy.

“There’s a big amount of ethics in what I do,” she says. “It’s not just about making money.

At the end of the day I’m giving people jobs and I want them to stay in that job and also do a good job. If you put out and do good, you’ll get it back - I try to keep that in mind for the whole ethos of the brand.”

For all those who want to learn from Deborah, who need some creative guidance, and especially anyone who’s starting a brand but feels overwhelmed, Deborah is currently running two-day workshops to give advice on structure, strategy and everything from licensing to promotion. “To have a fashion brand you really need to be focussed and switched on, and know a thousand things at once because this industry is ruthless,” Deborah admits. “The business side can stump you from being creative. These workshops give a helping hand to stop people from going nuts! The weekend course can literally change the path of people’s careers.”

With 13 years of experience and a brand that is honest, sincere and super stylish, it’s taken Deborah some serious hours and hard work to get to this stage. “I wasn’t built for anything else, I was made to do this,” she says. And the proof is in the product. ✤ GO: Pictured is the AW16 Deborah Henning lookbook. Visit www.deborahhenning.com for more information on the two-day workshops and the Deborah Henning collection.

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REVIEWs

Big Screen Sully What’s it about: Based on true events, this is the story of Chelsey Syllenberger, the pilot who became a hero after landing his plane in the Hudson River, New York, after the aircraft suffered engine failure at low altitude. His efforts saved the lives of all 155 crew and passengers onboard.

Director: Clint Eastwood cast: Tom Hanks, Anna Gunn, Laura Linney Why it’s worth watching?

There are so many reasons why this film is going to be worth watching – the suspense, emotion, the build up, Clint Eastwood and Tom Hanks in the driver’s seat (oh, pun), and because everything you see actually happened.

It was January 15, 2009 when US Airways flight 1549, an Airbus 320 jet, made the remarkable emergency water crash landing after both of its engines crippled at a lower altitude than any jet in aviation history. Capt. Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger III used his 40-year training, experience and discipline as a glider pilot to safely glide the aircraft onto the Hudson River, in what is famously known as “a miracle on the Hudson”. Not only are we looking forward to seeing what occurred during the aftermath of this heroic and historical event, we’re even more excited to see Tom Hanks take on the role of the real-life pilot. After all, the man has a phenomenal talent for portraying highly-intense, real-world, situations on the big screen (remember Captain Phillips?).

Our favourite line of the film is: “I’ve spent 40 years in the air, but in the end I’m going to be judged on 208 seconds,” now, if that’s not powerful, we don’t know what is!

Highlights “Not only are we looking forward to seeing what occurred during the aftermath of this heroic and historical event, we’re even more excited to see Tom Hanks take on the role of the real-life pilot.”

Queen of Katwe What’s it about: Also based on a true story is the fantastic book-to-film drama Queen of Katwe. A poor single mother is raising her 10-year-old daughter in rural Uganda. The young girl’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets a missionary teaching local children how to play chess, and discovers she has a natural talent for the game.

– Sully

Win 2 Free Cinema Tickets Redeemable for any film at any Cineco cinema Answer the following question:

In which film did Tom Hanks play a Eastern European tourist trapped at JFK airport?

Send your answers to shabana@fact-magazine.com

Director: Mira Nair cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo Why it’s worth watching?

It’s been a hot while since we’ve seen Lupita Nyong’o beautiful and expressive face in front of the camera (her two biggest recent roles, in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Jungle Book have kept her behind the screens), but she’s making a comeback with a bang. The film addresses many real-life scenarios; life in a poor African village, the uplifting power of chess, the will and determination of young women, and the struggles to achieve your dreams.

Expect touching stuff and a fantastic find in the unknown lead actress, Madina Nalwanga. We hear awards season buzz!

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#High #tea #at #hevea #cafe #al #aali #mall

The newest and super classy fine food eatery, Hevea Cafe, in Al Aali Shopping Complex has introduced a high tea concept to their menu.

Members of the media and special guests attended the taster launch where everyone enjoyed delicious sandwiches (with exclusively homemade bread) and sinfully good desserts - the scones and range of teas are particularly fabulous. fact magazine

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REVIEWs

on the record

Fully Booked

MYSTERY & CRIME

An Untimely Frost

By Penny Richards

FOLK-POP INDIE/ALT

Wild World

By Bastille

The last four years have been pretty ridiculously amazing for Bastille. They’ve toured extensively, released some hugely successful tunes and become the go-to alt-pop band of the decade. The list of their achievements so far goes on and on: from four million albums sold to a British Breakthrough BRIT Award, Grammy nominations, platinum-selling singles, duets with top artists, and sold-out festivals and concerts, the South-London quartet has come a LONG way. In Bastille’s true intimate, synth-pop, and bombast style, the band announced the coming of Wild World in a 120-minute trailer called Hello. If the chilling yet soothing sound and vocals in the video don’t give you goosebumps, we don’t know what will. It’s only surprising that the group hasn’t released a studio album since their debut Bad Blood in 2013 – guess you can’t rush perfection after all.

Fans will absolutely love it!

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Young As The Morning Old As The Sea

We’re in 1881 Chicago where the idea of a female detective is completely unheard of. That is until famed crime buster Allan Pinkerton opens his agency’s doors to a handful of women. One intrepid actress with her own troubled past is driven to defy convention and take on a new and dangerous role. This is the first book in the Lilly Long mystery series and it’s packed full of twists that you won’t see coming. You will learn and grow with the character of Lilly who begins with something simple, but turns out to be complex. An enjoyable read!

By Passenger

Another British export, Passenger, a.k.a singer/songwriter Mike Rosenberg, is releasing his seventh studio album this month and, truthfully, it is nothing short of a serene dream. The lead single Somebody’s Love is a mellow, melodic jewel. His angelic voice tells the story of a person pushing away those around her, but then wanting people around her when she comes back.

This is a song about burning bridges, and whilst Passenger’s voice would make it very easy to sing about the happy side of love, he brings a real emotion to Somebody’s Love – something we’re hoping will seep into the rest of the album. We’d highly recommend ordering the deluxe version of Young as the Morning Old as the Sea, for the acoustic gems on the CD. Passenger along with his trusty guitar has more beautiful sounds coming your way.

HISTORY/SCIENCE

Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World

By Rachel Ignotofsky

It’s a scientific fact that women rock and this book is about to prove to you how true that is! A charmingly illustrated and educational book, Women in Science highlights the contributions of 50 notable women to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world. It’s full of trailblazing thinkers, fascinating doers and both well-known and less prominent pioneers too. A great read for knowledge and inspiration.

#Bubbly #Breakfast #at #The #D omain

Dôme has forged its success on a customer experience built specifically around an old world European brasserie café. With European ambience and charm combined with great tasting coffee and a diverse food menu with service to the table, the Dôme café experience is quite like no other.

Providing high quality food and beverages at great value, you’ll find comfort in our menu. The attention to detail that we apply to everything we do, can be ‘tasted’ throughout our menu categories, with feature products reminding you of your childhood, when life used to be much simpler, products and service were more reliable, and the world was somewhat friendlier.

Dôme is an inclusive place for people and families of all ages and backgrounds to dwell and enjoy !!

The launch of the brand new bubbly breakfast at The Domain Hotel and Spa took place last month on a sunny weekend morning. Selected invitees relished in a culinary indulgence and treated themselves to a little sparkle overlooking the majestic views of the Manama skyline. Located at Level 36, Domain Prive, the sparkling affair was a great start to the day. fact magazine

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#New #Porsche #718 #boxster #launch

The Porsche Centre Bahrain invited local media and VIP guests to the reveal of the all-new Porsche 718 Boxster last month. The two-seat convertibles are now more powerful yet more fuel efficient too. With them, Porsche continues the tradition of the four-cylinder flat engines that were used in the Porsche 718 mid-engine sports cars that won numerous races back in the 1950s and 1960s. The centrepiece of the new model series is the newly developed four-cylinder flat engine with turbocharging, and the completely new chassis tuning and stronger brakes provide for passionate and sporty driving pleasure.

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VISUAL DAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;AWA Aiming to challenge certain modern-day perceptions, Rashed Ahmed Al-Araifi puts an innovative spin on narrative art with sketches and paintings inspired by contemporary issues. FACTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shabana Adam sits down with the Bahraini artist to learn more about his unorthodox approach and how architecture and the social sciences play a big role in his artwork.

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“Being exposed to contemporary art at such a young age enabled me to find and adapt my own technique. In my opinion, art should have a function and what better function than education.”

I 1. Visual Da’awa: Path 2. Visual Da’awa: Sightless 3. Visual Da’awa: Expansion 4. Visual Da’awa: Humble GO: Follow Rashed on instagram @rashedalaraifi to keep up with all the latest from his Art-chitect pursuits.

n all of our time in the GCC, we’ve come across some truly exceptional artists.

However, nothing could’ve prepared us for the chills and “wow” moment when we first saw Rashed Ahmed Al-Araifi’s work. It’s far from the traditional.

Rashed, who recently returned from studying in London where he completed a degree in architecture, is not your typical artist. His admiration for the social sciences and solving socio-political, cultural, and in some cases, random issues, through art and design are the ideas often discussed in his work. From humanitarian matters, to emotional subjects of the human heart; themes of love, time, and death can be evident.

These topics also act as the ultimate creative drive for Rashed, providing a deeper context for him to soak up new knowledge and translate his perspectives into an interesting visual. “What’s good about architecture and what I admire about the profession is that it encompasses all the sciences,” he says. “Like sociology, politics, economics, and you’re exposed to anthropology too, not just the design aspects, and that’s what I like about the creative industry.”

He describes himself as, simply, an artistic nomad who shares his opinions visually. Rashed believes in the power of narrative and tries to use his art as a catalyst to add value to modern-day issues.

“I’m a nomad, a man of the desert, a wanderer,” he says. “Being exposed to contemporary art at such a young age enabled me to find and adapt my own technique. In my opinion, art should

have a function and what better function than education,” Rashed adds.

His latest series, pictured on these very pages, and on the magazine’s front cover, is titled Visual Da’awa, and it’s a fine example of his vision of using art to educate people about certain social, cultural, and religious issues, amongst other things. “The pieces from the Visual Da’awa series are basically a translation of particular verses in the Quran,” Rashed tells us. “I try to give a sense of dynamism to the verse because it has so much depth and so many layers, and it could be read in so many different ways. At some point I would like to make a children’s book so I’d educate people with simple visuals like these and show them just how rich the religion of Islam is,” he says. For anyone viewing Rashed’s work for the first time, the Visual Da’awa series may just be the furthest thing from simple. But, for Rashed, having 3,636 verses to reference means his work is open to interpretation for both young people and more artistically mature viewers too.

“You’re exposed to so many different levels of audiences but in a way I try to make a universal artistic translation,” he says. “I sometimes do work like a six-year-old by, simply, translating thoughts into visuals – that’s my equation.”

Rashed zones in on a particular issue, finds the missing variable, and then offers a new translation on that subject. The missing variable is, often, whatever he believes is lacking from the topic in question.

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“I appreciate all art, but sometimes there’s not enough to take in... I need to be a sponge, that’s why people like Imam Al-Ghazali and Ibn Al-Haytham are the people whose literature and hypothesis I look to for inspiration.”

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“When it came to the Visual Da’awa series, I saw a missing variable in explaining a verse from the Quran through imagery,” he explains. “People have seen so much of the traditional styles of calligraphy, for example.

My art presents them with something more unorthodox, but, also, it’s not just about translating a verse, it’s a mix of realism, proportion and beauty.”

Take the artwork titled Visual Da’awa: Path, which took nine hours straight to complete.

This image is a translation of one line – Ihdinas-Siratal Musta-qeem (guide us to the straight path) – from Surah Al-Fatihah. “As a Muslim, I read that verse everyday, five times a day, so it rings in the heart,” Rashed

shares. “That line in particular was a very significant turning point in terms of my Visual Da’awa series. It’s a very simple line, composed of very simple words that anyone can understand, but at the same time it has many different layers that give it a sense of richness,” he continues. “It’s powerful and surreal and its translation to a visual shows the head of a young person reflecting on himself, forecasting the future, and begging God to keep him on the straight path until he’s an old man.”

As someone who is just as much the architect as he is an artist, sometimes it can be challenging for Rashed to find the balance between linear drawings and

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emotional portrayal. “When it comes to the actual expression, I believe in the holiness of the art,” he says. “That translation is not linear because it comes from the heart and I try to deliver work in its purest form, with visual responses that reveal my opinions, perceptions, and experiences of the world we navigate through.”

After being exposed to art his whole life – Rashed’s father is a noted interior designer and his uncle is none other than the master of art himself, Rashid Al-Oraifi – it’s fascinating to learn that Rashed himself started drawing as just a hobby, with his biggest interest being Japanese animation.

Now, most of his work is conceptual,

with a main focus of trying to bridge functionality and narrative, and building upon that foundation whilst maintaining an innovative artistic expression.

Unlike many mainstream talents, Rashed doesn’t look to other artists for inspiration. Instead, he values the work of anthropologists, sociologists, leaders, economists and even the study of semiotics, specifically how to relate sound and imagery, to develop his work. Why? Because, it’s all about context. “I appreciate all art, but sometimes there’s not enough to take in,” he says. “I need to be a sponge, that’s why people like Imam Al-Ghazali and Ibn AlHaytham are the people whose literature

and hypothesis I look to for inspiration.”

Rashed projects his stream of opinions through architecture, painting, sketching, and other creative pursuits. His problemsolving skills, eye for connotation, and ability to translate opinions through visuals are all the things that keep his unique artistic flair alive.

“The main goal is to challenge the viewer and tell their mind to think,” he explains.

“This kind of art will have challenges at first but I think it will pave the way for a more dynamic audience and new contemporary artists to come forward.”

We’ve got just one question: How did the Visual Da’awa series challenge you? ✤ fact magazine

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Visualise.

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A brand new photography, art and design studio with a bit of flavour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Akkas Gallery in Saar is the best new inspiring space for creative enthusiasts to check out. Let us take you into the gallery through picturesâ&#x20AC;Ś

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Akkas Gallery

• It took owner Jihad Falah two years from start to finish to create and bring to life his vision for Akkas Gallery.

• Downstairs, the walls are covered in hundreds of Arabic and English history and culture books, taken from Jihad’s uncle’s personal collection.

• The gallery is currently hosting an exhibition by the seven-artist collective known as Art Fusions Studio Bahrain, including renowned engineer Irina Kotova.

• Photography workshops are also offered on a regular basis for budding creative talents to hone their skills.

• There is also studio space available to be used for small shoots whilst the main reading area is a light-filled room, perfect for getting stuck into a good book or doing some work.

• Jihad sums up the atmosphere as “it’s like you’re meeting the spirits of all the writers” – an apt description for such a relaxed and inspiring place.

GO: Follow @akkasgallery on instagram to keep up with all the latest information.

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SOCIETY

#All-New #Nissan #Altima #2017 #Launch

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, the sole dealer for Nissan vehicles in the Kingdom launched the new 2017 Nissan Altima at the Nissan Showroom in Arad. Mona Almoayyed, Managing Director, Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, and Mohammed Almoayyed, Director, Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, alongside senior management and members of the media, all attended the launch. The 2017 Altima arrived dressed with a fresh new look that includes the Energetic Flow exterior styling theme and Gliding Wing interior layout, Class Leading Fuel Economy and Improved Driving Dynamics and Safety Technology.

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The 84 Perspectives: A Trip to Thailand Packed with palaces, temples, gardens, markets and some of the best beaches in the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thailand is a hugely popular destination, and for good reason. FACTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gareth Woods took in the sights, sounds and tastes of Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Lampang on a mega media trip to the beautiful country, visiting some of the initiatives and projects inspired by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

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Getting There Every travel experience begins with a voyage, one that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. I was fortunate enough to fly with Qatar Airways, who offer daily flights to Bangkok which will get you there in under seven hours from Doha.

Even flying economy class, the experience was a comfortable one, especially in the new Airbus Industrie A380-800 Jet. With that little bit of extra leg room and adjustable headrests, the flight seemed to pass by serenely whilst I enjoyed the premier movie selection on the inflight entertainment system.

The attentive and friendly staff were always on hand to ensure the passengersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; comfort. With plenty of air hostesses present on the flight, it felt as if there was ample attention to go around, with no such thing as a long wait to be seen to.

The food was nothing short of tasty and filling; a menu came with options for both meat eaters and vegetarians too. To my surprise, we also received a second snack later in the flight, assuring that we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hit the ground running on an empty stomach â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bonus!

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Beautiful Bangkok As the largest and most populated city in Thailand, this capital is about as alive as it gets. Dating back to the 15th century, there’s no end to the culture and history on offer. Seething with a chaotic energy and thousands of stimulants for each of the senses, some time spent in this central location is a must. Whether travelling by metro, bus, taxi, tuk tuk or boat, this intricate maze of streets and canals is a vibrant adventure waiting to happen.

I was lucky enough to be escorted on a half day tour of the heart of Thailand, beginning with a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River. Even as the journey first began, the contrast between tradition and progression was easy to notice. Temples stand alongside five-star hotels and old wooden boats cruise alongside their modern tour counterparts.

Our first land stop was the Grand Palace. It’s difficult to describe something which can only truly be appreciated in person. The majestic structures dwarf the thousands of tourists visiting this site on a daily basis. The sheer grandness of the historic architectural offerings is overwhelming and at times, I had to pause in order to fully take in what was in front of me. The intricacies of the details are absorbing as every wall tells a story of Thailand’s history.

Soon afterward I found myself racing

through the streets of Bangkok in a tuk tuk (three-wheeled taxi) towards The Queen’s Gallery. Both the King and Queen of Thailand have been working tirelessly for decades to improve the plight of the common people and are beloved by the country’s citizens. This particular undertaking by her majesty Queen Sirikit, serves as a space for Thai artists to display their talents. A rich offering of fabrics, paintings, sculptures and other artisan creations are what can be enjoyed at this location. As always, a glimpse of traditional Thailand is presented alongside contemporary talent within these displays.

An art-filled hour, one coach ride and another boat trip later, I landed at Supatra River House. This two-storey traditional Thai house on the bank of the river offers a charming atmosphere and scrumptious menu. A most satisfying way to end a half day tour of a magical city.

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Both the King and Queen of Thailand have been working tirelessly for decades to improve the plight of the common people and are beloved by the country’s citizens.

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Bangkok: Where to Stay The Shangri-La Hotel

There are countless options when it comes to places to stay in Bangkok. From backpackersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hostels to lodges and simple hotels or five-stars, there is accommodation to suit any budget. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) was kind enough to set me (and the other 83 media guests) up at one of the top locations in 64

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the city, the Shangri-La Hotel. This fivestar venue offers an experience second to none. Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the lavish rooms offer large beds, a comfortable window seat to look over the passing boats, a flat screen TV, mini bar and a bathroom complete with shower and bath. Immediate comfort is the result.

The hotel boasts a stylish gym area complete with plenty of useful equipment.

Yoga and other classes are on offer too.

Various massages are also an option for those who wish to experience one of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous exports.

The dining options are abundant too.

With a buffet that never seemed to end, the choices available were extensive and delicious. One lap around the cuisine circuit never proved to be enough, as scores of dishes and desserts called out, ready to be devoured. A beautiful deck area on the river is the perfect spot to relax and to enjoy these culinary offerings.

Thailand is a country of a million smiles, many of which are housed in the ShangriLa Hotel. The staff are some of the friendliest and most proactive employees I have experienced. Always ready to help and to predict your needs.

With great security and options for travel from the hotel, the Shangri-La Hotel enables you to get quickly settled and get out and about, to whatever point in the city your heart desires.

#aLLO #& #LUGH #STORE #OPENING #AT #SEEF #MALL

Jawad Buisness Group opened its newest kids brand store - allo&lugh - at Seef Mall, Bahrain. Allo is a nickname for a boy and Lugh is a nickname for a girl and it stands for a valuable childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and toddlersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; clothing line that all Allos and Lughs can wear. The brand offers upscale baby and toddler styles with a contemporary touch using vibrant colours and cute motifs. fact magazine

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Northern Stars: Chiang Mai and Lampang

Having travelled to Thailand before, I’ve experienced the amazing beaches of the South. From Phuket to the Islands, there is no end to the beauty of the oceanside locations. This time however, I was to venture to the North toward the mountainous regions closer to the country’s borders with Burma and Laos.

And am I glad I did so!

- Top 5 Experiences Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden These botanical gardens are a creation of the queen in order to preserve the invaluable plant resources of the country. Situated in the foothills of the Doi Suthep-Pui Mountains of Chiang Mai, the location is massive in size and truly beautiful to behold.

The Natural Science Museum holds an explanation of the project, showcasing what its presence is achieving. The lushness of the surroundings sets the stage for the curated gardens and numerous greenhouses, filled with all kinds of flora of Thailand. Lastly, the country’s longest canopy walk takes you on a journey above the treetops, gifting a bird’s eye view of the majestic surroundings.

Temple Viewing in Lampang

Thailand is steeped in rich history, which is most apparent when taking in the array of historic temples. An hour and a half drive from Chiang Mai, you’ll find the picturesque town of Lampang. This quieter location houses several temples, all of which are impressive in their own way. The architecture and intricacies of these structures are to be admired.

Skilled craftsmen were responsible for their construction and they were no doubt a labour of love. From Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, one of the most revered temples in Thailand, to the smaller temples of Wat Pratu Pong and Wat Pongsanuk, various style influences are apparent, showcasing further examples of the country’s diversity.

Horse Drawn Carriage Through Lampang

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ma” in Thai, means “Horse Carriage City”. This is apparent when you see the amount of brightly decorated, single horse drawn carriages on the roads. This mode of transport has been used for hundreds of years in the region and is still widely utilised to this day, not only for tourism but for local travel too. A trot through the quiet streets of Lampang is a real treat as it gives you the time to notice the finer places of interest. The carriages are covered, so you’re shielded from the elements. Fitting two to four people, this quaint experience is a must as it draws you closer to the local culture and way of life.

Chiang Mai Night Tour

Chiang Mai comes alive after dark. The hustle and bustle of the streets seems to amplify as the sun disappears below the horizon. A night tour is a great way to experience the other half of the local lifestyle. Waroros Market is a buzzing indoor and outdoor market complete with resident shops, freshly prepared local

GLOBETROTTER dishes, clothing, flowers, souvenirs, trinkets and more. From haggling over the prices of desired items to partaking in the range of tasty food, an entire evening could be dedicated to this location, but there is more.

Continue on to Thai Phae Gate, which is the reconstructed main entrance to the old walled city. Carry on until you reach Wat Chedi Luang, the most important temple located in the ancient walled part of the city.

Walk past the small but interesting temple, Wat Phan Toa, towards Anusawari Sam Kasat (The Three Kings Monument), and you’ll have completed a full evening of new experiences.

Afternoon Biking Tour Through Chiang Mai

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This time however, I was to venture to the North toward the mountainous regions closer to the country’s borders with Burma and Laos. And am I glad I did so!

There’s nothing like a peaceful pedal through a lush and green neighbourhood on a sunny afternoon. After hoping on a bicycle at Ban Rai Kong Khing village, proceed to Wat Ton Kwen, the most perfect example of old Lanna architecture remaining in the North of Thailand today. Charming villages in the Hang Dong district allow a passing glimpse into real local living. Tunnels of trees enclosing the roads is a surreal escape into nature as the circular route flows past a temple on the way back to the quiet village.

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Chiang Mai: Where to Stay Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa The Staff

From the moment you step out of your vehicle, staff at Siripanna are exactly as you would want them to be, friendly and helpful.

They’re ready to assist you in any way to ensure your comfort. Checking is handled quickly and efficiently, allowing you to get to your room within minutes of your arrival.

The Room

There are many room types on offer, all of which are luxurious in nature. Spacious and stylish, the comfortable beds and large bathrooms provide a homely base for your travels which you always look forward to returning to after a day of exploring.

The Food

With a buffet serving restaurant, offering a wide selection of both traditional and international dishes, there is reason to get excited at least three times a day. Each meal comes with an assorted offering of fruit juices and hot beverages. Once again the friendly service is always readily available and an enjoyable experience is virtually guaranteed.

The Facilities

A beautiful moat-like swimming pool surrounding a large wooden deck area is a welcome addition to the hotel. A swim in the warm waters is just what is needed after a long day of seeing the sites. A spa is also present where you can enjoy the talents of skilled masseurs. Bookings for these heavenly sessions can be made through reception.

Security is also taken seriously at this venue and you’ll always feel well looked after. ✤ 68

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Travel Tips SIM Card Get yourself a sim card at the airport. There are many stations near the exit where one can do so. If you buy a seven day sim, you receive free internet for that week.

Cover up When visiting many of the historical sites in Thailand, certain dress codes apply. Often sandles are not allowed. Uncovered shoulders or skirts above the knee are also not allowed at certain locations. Woman are not allowed to wear pants at certain locations. To counter all of this, carry a sarong or a shawl to cover exposed areas or unfitting attire.

Umbrella Thailand’s weather can be unpredictable. One moment you are baking in the sun and next you are being rained on. A small umbrella provides protection from both.

Mosquito repellent Thailand has a tropical climate which is ideal for mosquitos, especially in the warmer months. Don’t forget to pack some repellent to avoid those annoying itchy bites.

GO: Fly to Bangkok with Qatar Airways via Doha (www.qatarairways.com). Visit www. tourismthailand.org for more information on things to see and do in Thailand.

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Fresh Seafood Night - thursdays * FREE GLASS OF WINE OR ANY SELECTED BEVERAGE

cdf CoralBayBH | (+973) 1731 2700 | www.coral-bay.net

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#All-New #Infiniti #Q30 #Launch

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons unveiled the brand new Infiniti Q30 at an exclusive launch event at the Infiniti showroom in Sitra. Attended by members of the media, VIP guests, special invitees, management and Infiniti fans, the brand new vehicle was given a glamorous reveal. One of the important, differentiating characteristics of the Q30â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design is its combination of elevated stance with an overall height that is comparable with models in the traditional compact segment. The Q30â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s height (1,495mm) allows for a higher hip point (531mm), which aids ingress and egress.

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The Range Rover Sport Demands to be Driven

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island RIDES

The Range Rover Sport has been described as “the fastest, most agile, most responsive Land Rover ever” and we have to agree.

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and Rover are truly four-wheel-drive specialists. Since 1948, they’ve been wheeling out a variety of models from their workshop, including the world famous Range Rover.

Almost 70 years later, the masterminds behind these top quality vehicles are still breaking the barriers with their everimproving and advanced offerings. Enter the Range Rover Sport.

The forward-thinking approach to this design makes it difficult to know where to start when describing this SUV’s components. But here goes.

When looking at the design, the enhanced boldness of the exterior is obvious. Power and class is what it exudes, shouting out its improved capabilities before the ignition is even engaged. The body is both modern and sleek in nature.

Slightly longer than its predecessor, this 7-seater SUV is still shorter than its would-be competitors, allowing it to be manoeuvred with relative ease. The longer wheelbase ensures additional comfort for those riding in the back.

Aerodynamics have been another major consideration of the creators, with many features receiving an upgrade to ensure an eight percent improvement in this area on the previous model. The profile has been rounded and streamlined, the angle of the

island RIDES

“Power and class is what it exudes, shouting out its improved capabilities before the ignition is even engaged.”

windscreen adjusted and the roofline carefully sloped. A trimming of 144mm on length, 55mm on height and 45kg on weight all contribute to the success of this undertaking.

So what other features does this sporty SUV boast for motoring fans?

The Range Rover Sport’s on-road capabilities have been hugely improved. This is obvious when experiencing its enhanced handling capabilities and general dexterity of the vehicle.

Wheel-travel is in a class of it own (260mm front and 272mm rear), providing the excellent wheel articulation of 546mm which in turn, allows for maximum control in the most challenging of environments.

The re-engineered air suspension system with its new +35mm intermediate setting means the off-road mode can remain available at much higher speeds (80km/h up from 50km/h) than previously possible. This is ideal for scarred dirt road conditions.

A recent addition is the electric power steering, characterised by a lighter, more direct steering feel. fact magazine

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A choice of two full-time 4WD systems are offered; one provides a two-speed transfer case with low-range option, for the most demanding off-road conditions with a front-rear 50/50 percent default torque split, and 100 percent locking capability.

The alternative system is 18kg lighter and features a single-speed transfer case with a Torsen differential, which automatically distributes torque to the axle with most grip, working together with the traction control systems to deliver excellent traction in all conditions. The default front-rear torque split of 42/58 percent is designed to provide a rear-wheel drive bias for optimum driving dynamics.

A supercharged 5.0-litre 510PS V8 petrol engine, a 3.0-litre 292PS SDV6 diesel engine a 3.0-litre 258PS TDV6 and a high performance 4.4-litre 339PS SDV8 diesel engine are on offer.

In addition, an innovative, high-efficiency diesel Hybrid model.

There are three equipment levels available, namely the HSE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography Dynamic as well as a SE derivative on the TDV6 models. All of which offer great performance and luxurious comfort.

Both the interior and exterior of the Range Rover Sport have clearly been a labour of love and the only way to fully appreciate the clear intellect and creativity behind this motoring feat is to get behind the wheel and to enjoy it first-hand, just like we did. â&#x153;¤ 74

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Go: Visit www.euromotors.bahrain.landrover-me.com or Call 17460460 to book a test drive and for more information.

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Motoring news

Nissan Recognises Top Sales Performers

EK Kanoo Presents Keys to Toyota Prius Winner Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, presented Mr. Hassan Abdul Ameer Hassan with the keys to a new Toyota Prius hybrid, the grand prize of its Ramadan 76

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Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons, the sole distributor of Nissan vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, held its annual Extended Warranty Refresher Programme at the Nissan Showroom in Sitra, last month. The objective of this programme is to enhance skills and enrich expertise of the Nissan sales team to deliver the message of peace of mind the customer will enjoy with every Extended Warranty they invest in. This will enrich their experience and improve brand loyalty. The interactive nature of the session makes it one of the most anticipated annual events by the Nissan Sales team. To conclude the session, top sales performers are presented with awards and certificates recognising their achievements in maximising sales opportunities. The event is organised every year by Nissan Gulf FZCo., the regional head office that overlooks the Bahrain Market, in tandem with GapCorp, the extended warranty provider. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top performer awards were presented to Yogesh Sachde, Mohammed Zumail and Hussain Alhawaj in the presence of colleagues, managers and company officials.

sales campaign. The draw was open to all customers who purchased discounted Toyota passenger cars between May 14 and July 12. Mr. Ismail Akbar, Executive General Manager of Sales and Mr. Khaled Kanoo, Operations Manager, presented the grand prize to Mr. Hassan at a ceremony at the Toyota Showroom. The discount period of the popular promotion has been extended with special prices continuing to be offered on the complete range of passenger cars, including the Yaris, Corolla, Camry and Avalon models.

#MUJI #Store #Opening #City #Centre #Bahrain

Japanese consumer goods retailer Muji opened its first store at City Centre Bahrain. Muji is renowned for producing functional lifestyle products relevant to all aspects of urban living. MUJI embraces minimalism by eliminating unnecessary elements and harmful toxins from its products. Where possible, MUJI uses repurposed and natural organic materials, making their products environmentally friendly and safe for everyday consumption. Muji is located on the ground floor. fact magazine

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Motoring news

All-New Infiniti Q30 At an exclusive event in Beirut, Infiniti Middle East unveiled the hotly anticipated all-new Infiniti Q30. The Infiniti Q30 active compact is a new type of premium vehicle for a new type of consumer. Representing Infiniti’s first entry into the fast-growing premium compact segment, the Q30 will play an important role in continuing to drive the growth of the brand here in the region.

Juergen Schmitz, Managing Director, Infiniti Middle East, said: “When we first debuted the Infiniti Q30 to the region at the Dubai International Motor Show last year – it was met with widespread critical acclaim.

The Infiniti Q30 is a completely new segment and direction for the Infiniti brand and we are confident that this vehicle will continue to deliver Infiniti’s premium experience to a new segment of customer.”

The Q30 takes Infiniti’s signature design cues and evolves them into new dynamic shapes. The double-arch grille with 3D mesh, for example, has grown from the Q50, with a more fluid movement into the headlamps. The dramatic curves and turbulent lines flow up the bonnet, over the fenders and across the body line into the strong shoulder of the car. The signature C-pillar arcs forward in a dynamic crescent shape that emphasises motion, even when stationary. The contrast of the long, low-slung roof-line, conjuring an image of a rakish shooting brake in silhouette, and elevated stance add to the visual impact. This also adds to a sleek look that gives the impression of the car being in motion even when standing still. The balance of sculptural shapes moving past one another creates a harmonious design that can be appreciated at a glance.

GO: Visit www.infiniti-bahrain.com to book a test drive and for more information.

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PLUGGED-IN

F r yin g H i g h

FA C T c h e c k s o ut t he bra nd ne w P hi lip s Viva Collection Airfr yer Tu rb ostar – yo ur ne w inno va t ive way to h ealth y eatin g .

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he conversation surrounding food and healthy eating has been at an all-time high, especially in the GCC, so you can only imagine the excitement when we got our hands on the brand new Philips Viva Collection Airfryer Turbostar – an incredible foodie feat for anyone who loves cooking (and eating).

WHAT IS IT? This new Airfryer uses unique Turbostar Technology to produce fast, healthy meals and snacks. You can fry, bake, roast or grill everything from chicken wings to muffins, French fries, quiche, meatballs, prawns, bread and so many more delicious foods.

All of this and more can be cooked using little to no oil – how awesome is that?

HOW DOES IT WORK? Mimicking the properties of a turbine to improve airflow circulation, the appliance’s new TurboStar technology swirls hot air continuously throughout the whole cooking chamber, resulting in fair heat distribution for evenly cooked food. This constant, circulating heat ensures all food is cooked through simultaneously, without the need for turning. In addition to this, powerful direct heat from above quickly crisps the food on the outside, while the inside remains tender, for great tasting dishes every time. Throughout every stage of the process, the new Airfryer TurboStar has been developed to make your life easier. There’s no need for pre-heating meaning it is ready to use immediately, and 80

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you can have perfectly cooked food in less time (more time to eat!).

WHY SHOULD YOU GET IT? We used the Airfryer to make roast potatoes with tuna and Mediterranean chicken nuggets with fries (both yummy recipes that you can find on the Philips website). Perhaps the most surprising factor is that food STILL tastes just as good, if not better, and the whole cooking experience feels revolutionary, especially when you get tasty fries and chicken without the greasiness of oil – we love it! It’s a much safer alternative to frying with oil and it also helps to eliminate the pungent odour caused by deep-frying. Additionally, with the QuickClean basket – which includes a removable non-stick mesh – cleaning it is super easy. If you’re a culinary enthusiast and also like things to be nice and neat, you’ll be happy to know that this Airfryer is 20 per cent smaller, making it space efficient whilst allowing you to fry up to four servings at a time (800g of food). What more could you ask for?

THE VERDICT After using the Philips Viva Collection Airfryer Turbostar to cook a number of dinners, all we can say is that the technology does what it says. You can enjoy all your favourite foods without the guilt or hassle of cooking with excess oil. Best of all, you won’t be compromising on flavour, taste or texture. It’s time to change your eating habits today and switch to the Airfryer. Trust us, you will not be disappointed. ✤

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PLUGGED-IN

App-licious L e t ’ s s e e w h at ’ s o n t h e smartp h o n e ag e n da f o r S e pt e m b e r …

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WAZE

DUOLINGO

The day most of our team landed in Bahrain, they downloaded this app to their phone and have never looked back. Waze is the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app, with over 50 million active monthly users globally. So how does it work? Millions of drivers interact with the app, reporting road hazards, traffic jams, speed cameras, accidents and much more.

In this way, you are always one step ahead of the traffic and can always select the best route currently available.

Best of all, it’s free! Just insert your desired destination and drive with the app left open on your phone. If you spot something worth reporting, wait until it is safe to do so and enter in the data. The app is very easy to use and voice assisted. We would literally be lost without it.

Need an easy and convenient way to learn a new language? Well the app Duolingo offers you a chance to learn any of nine European languages, absolutely free. The creators used a scientific approach to ensure retention of information. The art of gamification has been applied, which encourages learning through speech, audio, photos and typing. One of our team has been learning Spanish through the app and will attest to it being user friendly.

They quickly picked up the basics and are improving each day. The app monitors and stores your process and will even send you reminders to practice each day if you ask it to. You earn points as you progress through the levels and can exchange these points for items at the virtual store.

Interactive, fun and effective. Duolingo es muy Bueno.

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HEALTH ADVERTORIAL

Underactive Thyroid Gland

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he thyroid gland is an important organ situated in the front of the lower part of your neck. It produces the hormone thyroxine.

Thyroxine is intimately linked to the metabolism in all cells and organs in the body. An underactive thyroid gland, or Hypothyroidism, is when the gland does not make enough thyroxine or has been removed by surgery or radiation therapy. Here, Dr Suni Rao at Royal Bahrain Hospital breaks down everything you need to know about having an underactive thyroid glandâ&#x20AC;Ś SYMPTOMS Hypothyroidism presents as a general slowing of body processes and can have many symptoms.

Unexplained weight gain with lethargy and fatigue is the commonest of them.

Other symptoms include menstrual disturbances, constipation, dryness of skin, hair fall, problems in memory and concentration, nerve pains in the hands and feet and excessive cold sensation. You may notice a puffiness of your body especially of your face and legs. Some women may find it difficult to conceive. It is important that your physician identifies subtle or borderline deficiency of thyroxine early on and decide on your therapy.

CAUSES Hypothyroidism is commonly caused by the 84

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production of an anti-body to the thyroid tissue that destroys the thyroid gland gradually.

This can be a progressive disease with less and less of functioning thyroid tissue remaining.

Therefore, testing for these anti-bodies is important, in addition to testing the thyroid function. Surgical removal of a part or whole of the gland and radiation treatment for an overactive thyroid gland are other reasons.

Rarely, the thyroid gland may be affected by medications and by cellular swelling immediately after delivery.

TREATMENT Hypothyroidism cannot be cured, but only kept under control. This is done by intake of thyroxine tablets, usually started in small doses and increased once in a few weeks based on your thyroid function values. The tablets are safe and devoid of side effects when taken in the prescribed doses.

FOLLOW UP Thyroid function is tested once every six weeks until you reach control, after which the frequency of testing can be reduced to quarterly or even every six months. In conclusion, with proper analysis and treatment, you can manage Hypothyroidism very well, and will not have any adverse impact on your health and wellbeing.

GO: Visit www.royalbahrainhospital.com for more information.

Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 & 2 yroid Disorders • Hypertension Infectious Diseases • Preventive Health Check-ups Travel Medicine & Adult Vaccinations Pre-Marital Check-up & Counseling

department of internal medicine

Royal Bahrain Hospital

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@RoyalBahrainHospital |www.royalbahrainhospital.com

AW16

T rend

R e p ort :

W omen

A new season calls for new styles and, ladies, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got the hottest runway trends with the best high-street buys to get your look perfect for the months ahead!

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Loud Prints Look-at-me hues and prints took over the AW16 fashion weeks with many collections presenting full-on, daring designs.

Psychedelic, contrasting colours with clashing patterns as well as futuristic, floral and renaissance influences put forward bold fashion to go hard, or go home.

On the runway:

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1.Fausto Puglisi 2.Gabrielab 3.Dolce & Gabbana 4.Koche 5.Samuel Yeung 6.Fausto Puglisi 7.Gucci 8.Tsumori Chisato 9.Emilio Pucci

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DUNE

New Look

Topshop

next

H&M

Accessorize

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Metallic Mad It was all about the sequins, shimmer and sparkle on the catwalks. Whether you go headto-toe gleam or take a more subtle approach with a statement glitter piece, make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re shining with the party glamour this AW16 season.

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On the runway:

Aldo

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REPLAY

MISS SELFRIDGE

TOPSHOP

1.Aigner 2.Dolce & Gabbana 3.Sorapol 4.Gucci 5.Ashish 6.Gucci

7.House of Holland 8.House of Holland 9.Lanvin 10.Preen by Thornton Bregazzi 11.Lako Bukia 12.Sorapol 13.Michael Kors

dune

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On the runway:

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1.Temperley London 2.Alexander McQueen 3.Roksanda 4.Fendi 5.JW Anderson 6.Luisa Beccaria 7.Lanvin 8.Prada 9.Gucci

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Romantic Ruffles Frills, pleats, bows, and ruching continued to make a comeback on the AW16 runways. Hems, collars, sleeves, and even accessories were adorned in this romantic style. Try a billowy skirt, blouse or full-on dress to slay this look.

Accessorize

Marks and Spencer

Miss Selfridge

Next

Dorothy perkins

Topshop

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Gothic Glamour Showing a taste for the darker and classier side

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of fashion, this season sees more sombre hues and a classic 1940â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s silhouette with cinchedin waists, frilled bibs, and whimsical prints and patterns. Black is key, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to mix

On the runway: 1.Alexander McQueen 2.Alexander McQueen 3.George Shaghashvilii 4.Alexander Wang 5.Michael Kors 6.Mulberry 7.DKNY 8.Erdem 9.DSquared2 10.Erdem 11.Topshop Unique 12.Giorgio Armani

it up with different materials and cut-outs.

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monsoon

Marks and Spencer

Debenhams

New Look

Next

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AW16

T rend

R e p ort :

M en

Prints, colours, textures and individuality make up some of the best menswear trends for the AW16 season ahead. Here are just some of our favourites for your wardrobe!

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Check Mate

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A trend that never gets old made a heavy appearance for AW16 looks. Long checkered coats, dense sweaters, trousers, jackets and accessories, all took over the runways as checks were given a colour boost and a pattern twist. This trend is no doubt the perfect choice to stay fashionsavvy and cosy at the same time!

On the runway:

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1.Acne Studios 2.Burberry 3.Fendi 4.Bottega Veneta 5.Etro 6.Junya Watnabe 7.Michael Kors 8.Pringle of Scotland 9.Vetements 10.Pringle of Scotland 11.Pyer Moss 12.Valentino

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Next

F&F

m&cO

Pull & Bear

dior homme @ saks

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Pink Parade Pops of rosy hues made pink a dominant 2

colour on the AW’16 men’s runway.

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Bubblegum, blush, coral, and magenta all took over head-to-toe looks as well as outerwear and trousers. Whether you go for a statement pink piece or attire with floral or patterns, autumn is when real men wear pink!

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On the runway: 1.Julien David 2.Paul Smith 3.Raf Simons 4.Gucci 5.Off-White 6.Vivienne Westwood 7.Christopher Shannon 8.Kenzo 9.Moschino

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS

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BERSHKA

H&M

HOUSE OF FRASER

ZARA

TOPMAN

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On the runway:

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1.Ermenegildo Zegna 2.James Long 3.KTZ 4.Prada 5.J.W. Anderson 6.Alexander McQueen 7.Saint Laurent 8.Topman 9.Missoni

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Arts & Crafts In an ever-evolving fashion world, this menswear trend really stood for individualism on the AW16 runways. Bright colours, dark colours, patterns, prints, slogans, textures, material and stitching, all brought to the forefront how to wear different trends. This oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for you to play around with and find your own style!

Mens at Dune

House of Fraser

H&M

Next

Pull & Bear

Topman

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Space Age

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Gleaming metallic and chrome designs played a part in popular fashion week collections, with On the runway: 1.Calvin Klein 2.Emporio Armani 3.Dsquared2 4.Katie Eary 5.Nasir Mazhar 6.Versace 7.Hogan 8.J.W. Anderson 9.Versace 10.Xander Zhou 11.Y-3 12.Phillip Plein

pea coats, bomber jackets, crinkled trousers and coats, and astronaut-inspired boots all completing a futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of the Space Age. Pick your glossy piece and start shining like the man on the moon!

Aldo

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French Connection

H&M

Topman

Marks and Spencer

matalan

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STYLE

Rosy Days

The seasonal change has put us in a mellow fashion mood this month. Ladies, swap out your bright fuchsia shades for warm pastel pinks, bubblegum and blush tones. Try headto-toe hues for a high impact look, or add complimenting white or gold, or mix and match fabrics, for a subtle nod to the trend.

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01. Accessorize 02. Bershka 03. Debenhams 04. Dune 05. Miss Selfridge 06. H&M 07. M&S 08. ORIGEM 09. Topshop 10. Aldo

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BACK TO SCHOOL KENZO

DSQUARED2

BALENCIAGA

BASICON FENDI

DIOR HOMME

Saks Fifth Avenue CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN +973 17172000

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STYLE

Retro Feelin’

This year’s festival crowd pulled off some truly eclectic looks with all sorts of retro inspiration in their outfits. Gone are the days of ultra-skinny jeans, as tailored trousers are the latest headliners. Couple these with crisp floral shirts fresh from the 70s and tasteful 90’s sportswear, and you’re winning.

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01. zara 02. French Connection 03. Debenhams 04. M&Co 05. Mens at Dune 06. PULL & BEAR 07. Marks and Spencer 08. Call it Spring 09. Matalan 10. Topman

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brand focus

QUIZ Specialists in fast fashion for the discerning women. Quiz is an international dynamic fast-fashion retail group for females, delivering catwalk styles and the latest trends from the fashion capitals of the world.

The Quiz collection offers glamorous looks for every occasion from glitzy evening gowns, cute prom dresses and heels to sparkling accessories.

Check out the great new AW16 floral and red collection.

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Celio This autumn, Celio takes the all American oversized style and launches a collection capsule that is all about the mineral colours.

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s washed out or bold prints, this collection is all about nice volumes and finishing, bringing a monochrome or more casual look together.

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beauty box

Clarins S h api n g F acia l Lift R a n g e

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e-contour your face and open up your amazing complexion!

Prominent beauty brand, Clarins, is back in the game with a new facial contouring beauty range.

Total V contouring serum combines three powerful plant extracts, which helps to slim visibly puffed areas and lifts facial contours. Meeting the expectations of olive, tan, Asian and darker skin tones better than ever, this new range challenges a new facial reshaping programme for the women of today.

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Bottega Veneta P arc o P a l l adia n o C o l l e cti o n

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ottega Veneta introduces Parco Palladiano, a new collection of fragrances for men and women inspired by the Palladian gardens of the Veneto region of Italy, where Bottega Veneta was founded in 1966. The six fragrances are a collaboration with three perfumers. Each scent captures different moments and experiences in a Palladian garden. The Parco Palladiano collection is numbered by simple Roman numerals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I, II, III, IV, V, VI â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to reflect the classical heritage of the Palladian villas. From magnolia to cypress leaves, azaleas, pear, rosemary, sage and laurel, there are captivating scents to please every perfume connoisseur.

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Also AvAilAble in ...

Abu DhAbi & QAtAr

Q

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A

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Roll Camera for Film Festival Fever

An Artistic Celebration of Arabic Culture

OctOber 2014. VOL 1 ISSUe 5. AeD 10 front_filmfestival.indd 1

9/29/14 4:25 PM

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@FACTAbuDhabi | @FACTBahrain | @FACT_Qatar 2.

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beauty checklist

1 Final Summer Beauty Hacks

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Sephora Jumbo Shadow Liner Change your eye beauty game and go for something fun and easy! These jumbo pencils create a range of cool and pretty effects, from bold lines to blending out eye shadows, so you can have a one-stop eye product on-the-go. the pencils are also resistant to water, heat and humidity, with a high-pigment formula that applies smoothly.

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MAC Transformed Huggable in Flaming Lips Forgo a heavy lippie and take your pout to another world of perfection. With a gel-like feel and a rich, glossy shine, this super hydrating lip colour lasts up to six hours. So, don’t worry about keeping your lips neat from day to night, because it’s time to get playful for every time of day!

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OPI Soft Shades in One Chic Chick While summer is still here, pave the way with soft and pastel shades. Get creative in the nail department as OPI delivers the very best for end-of-summer nails.

Go funky and wild with some nail décor, too, or keep it fresh and feminine with one bright colour to match your outfit. Go on, get your nail cred on point.

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Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer With so much humidity these days, lock your look and set everything with this summer-friendly primer. No sweat, no gain! Make sure to dab a small amount all over your face and make your foundation last up to seven hours with this genius product. Perfect for day to evening wear. We love it!

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Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Resist 24 Balancing Softener Enriched Stay hydrated with this wrinkle-resisting, age-defying softener, which contains effective ingredients to challenge visible signs of aging.

Remove the excess surface cells with this cult beauty product as it also, deeply moisturises for smoother, rejuvenated skin.

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Starskin The Master Cleanser Foam Detoxify your skin with this luxurious rich cleanser and keep your skin nourished.

Infused with active marine extracts and sea kelp, it also combines pure glacier water with a potent blend of sea kelp leaves, brightening green caviar seaweed, softening sea cucumber and nourishing Spirulina. Go get radiant!

grooming checklist

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Final Summer G ROOM I NG Hacks Great for the humid days to come, here are the top products for men to step up their grooming game!

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THE BODY SHOP Shea Body Butter It’s one of the most-loved products from The Body Shop, and it works a treat!

Much like your face, the skin on your body needs moisture – especially, the knees, calves and elbows which have fewer oil glands. This vitamin E-rich moisturiser has been putting the lustre back into skin for some time now.

Moisturising is a breeze!

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DAVIDOFF Cool Water Davidoff Cool Water is now leading the way to help protect the ocean, so we thought it was only fitting to give this fail-safe fragrance a shout out. The brand and its ambassador Scott Eastwood are working to safeguard one of the world’s most endangered natural resources. Plus, it smells amazing too – bonus!

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CLINIQUE FOR MEN Oil Control Mattifying Moisturiser Moisturising your skin is essential to keep it looking and feeling smooth and healthy. Achieve a matte, shine-free complexion with this product. Ideal for daily use, the fastabsorbing cream soothes shaving irritation and cools razor burns for longlasting comfort.

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NIVEA Nivea Men Crème Pulling triple duty, this crème cares for the skin on your face, body and hands, by giving it a boost of hydration. The light formula is non-greasy, non sticky and absorbs quickly.

It’s also the perfect size to throw into your gym bag and it works to feel good ON your skin so you can feel good IN your skin.

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GILLETTE Fusion ProShield Razor ProShield Lubrication before and after the blades, lays down a protective layer to shield from irritation whilst shaving – basically, you’ll evict more whiskers in fewer strokes! Five precision blades provide less tug and pull for incredible comfort – in fact, this might just be the “closest ever” shave of your life!

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JACK BLACK Hair & Scalp Conditioner Not only will it give you a fresh, minty jolt in the morning, to kick-start your day obvs, this product will also fortify follicles and stimulate hair growth. The lightweight conditioner detangles and adds shine, even to graying, curly, and coarsely textured hair as well as deeply moisturising the hair and scalp. fact magazine

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HOME STYLE

Technicolour Lines Playful colours are making an interior splash right now with rainbow shades appearing on everything from bookshelves to oven gloves, vases and towels. Bring some bright, bold, and colour-filled vibes into your abode with our top picks for the home this monthâ&#x20AC;Ś

Debenhams

dotcomgiftshop

dotcomgiftshop

M&Co

Marks & Spencer

Zara Home

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Zara Home

HOME STYLE

Lakeland

Fabulous Fondant

FAIL-SAFE FONDANT DESSERT KIT Nothing beats a perfectly baked sponge encasing a gorgeous, gooey centre, and you can’t go wrong with the new Fondant Dessert Kit from Lakeland. Thoroughly tested to guarantee great results and give you absolute peace of mind, it’s a sure-fire way to impress and make every single spoonful a truly melt-inthe-mouth experience. Comprises six individual silicone pudding moulds and a silicone tray to make up to 12 fondant centres. Includes five recipes.

Oven safe up to 240°C. | BD15 fact magazine

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It’s all about the food this month as we’ve got round one of the nominees for the eightH edition of our hugely popular Citi FACT Dining Awards. This year’s campaign will see the absolute best and all the public favourites battle it out to walk away with a coveted award in 33 categories. Here’s the preliminary list of nominees to give you a flavour of what’s to come…

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NOMINEES

INTERNATIONAL • Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • Café Amsterdam, Adliya • Trader Vic’s, Seef • Links, Royal Golf Club • Dome, Various Locations • Jones the Grocer, Amwaj Islands

ITALIAN

• Zayt Zaytoon, Various Locations • Cafe Blanc, Seef

IRANIAN • Takht Jamsheed, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Isfahani, Various Locations • Golestan, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Persian Garden, Seef

• Cucina Italiana, Juffair • Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • La Pergola, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Medzo, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Mondo, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa • Vento, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Rosso, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands

SEAFOOD

MEDITERRANEAN

JAPANESE

• La Vinoteca Barcelona, Adliya • Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge, Block 338 • Torino Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya • Prego, Royal Golf Club • Florence, Block 338 • Masso, Palace Boutique Hotel

• Meisei, Block 338 • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Maki, Moda Mall • Ruka, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • Sato, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Sumo Sushi & Bento, Various Locations • Imari, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Ora Restaurant, Hotel Diva

MIDDLE EASTERN • Pashawat, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Saffron, Al Areen Palace & Spa • Zahle, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Marash, Muharraq • Kenza, K Hotel • Furn Bistro, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Saffron by Jena Bakery, Muharraq

• La Mer, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Samak, Coral Bay • La Perle Fishmarket, Novotel Al Dana Resort • The Fish Market, Al Bander Hotel & Resort • Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Le Domain, The Domain Hotel & Spa

CHINESE • China Garden, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • P.F. Chang’s, City Centre Bahrain • David’s Stir Fry Crazy • Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Rauchi, Ramee Rose Hotel • Hong Kong, Um Al Hassam

LEBANESE

SOUTH EAST ASIAN

• Abd El Wahab, Moda Mall • Rayes, Coral Bay • Al Abraaj, Various Locations • Reem Al Bawadi, Ramada Manama City Centre

• Monsoon, Block 338 • Keizo, Al Areen Palace & Spa • Repartee, Royal Golf Club • WU, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Kontiki, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel fact magazine

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NOMINEES • Re Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Rauchi, Ramee Rose Hotel • Teatro, Downtown Rotana • Ora Restaurant, Hotel Diva

INDIAN • Lanterns, Various Locations • Nirvana, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Spices, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Rasoi by Vineet, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Mirchi, Ramee International Hotel • Flavours of Asia, Riffa

NORTH AMERICAN • Bennigan’s, Al Safir Hotel • Chili’s, Various Locations • Tony Roma’s, Various Locations • Ric’s Kountry Kitchen, Juffair • IHOP, City Centre Bahrain

LATIN AMERICAN • Brasa de Brazil, Seef Mall • Margarita Mexicana, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Senor Paco’s, Adliya • Casa Mexicana, Adliya • Brazil Rodizio Grill & Lounge, Adliya • El Gringo, Hamala

STEAKHOUSE • CUT By Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Flames Steak & Seafood, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency Bahrain •La Sauvage, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Plums, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • The Meat Co., Block 338

BURGER JOINT • Smash Burger, Seef • Jasmi’s, Various Locations • Shake Shack, City Centre Bahrain • Dome, Various Locations 116 fact magazine

NOMINEES • Grub Shack, Hamala • Dairy Queen, Various Locations • Mooyah, Riffa

IN-MALL • Aroma Express, The Mall Juffair • Butcher Shop & Grill, City Centre Bahrain • Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Vapiano, City Centre Bahrain • Paul Restaurant & Bakery, Seef Mall • Wagamama, City Centre Bahrain • Oishi Sushi, ABC Mall Juffair • Marash, Various Locations • Dajajio Chicken, Various Locations • Subway, Various Locations

CASUAL DINING • Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Nu Asia, Various Locations • Chez Sushi, Saar • Romano’s Macaroni Grill • Hakisushi, Juffair • Lumee Street Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Oishi Sushi, The Mall Juffair • Al Abraaj, Various Locations • Subway, Various Locations

ALL-DAY DINING • Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana • Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Dome, Various Locations • Silk’s, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Le Chocolat, Various Locations • Citrus, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands • Kolours, K Hotel

ALFRESCO DINING • Meisei Rooftop, Block 338 • Café Amsterdam & La Vinoteca Barcelona, Adliya • Thai Overlook, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Trader Vic’s • Oliveto, Adliya fact magazine

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NOMINEES

• Tapas, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Vento, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

BAR • Boudoir, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Downtown, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Cut Bar & Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Cellar 59 Bar, Lounge, Tapas, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Time Café, Ramee Rose Hotel • Trader Vic’s • Bizarre Lounge, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre

LOUNGE • Blue Moon Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Elements Pool & Lounge, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Txoko, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Ora Restaurant, Hotel Diva • K Lounge, K Hotel • Torino Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya

SHISHA LOUNGE • Aroma Café, Seef • Sip & Dip, Elite Seef Residence • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Al Bindaira Café, Seef • Veranda Café, Adliya • Kasbah Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Ammar Times Cafe, Adliya

PUB • Fiddlers Green, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel • Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • JJ’s Irish Restaurant, Adliya • Red Lions, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • Sherlock Holmes, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

CAFÉ • Troufa, Al Raya Mall • Le Chocolat, Various Locations 118 fact magazine

• Delilah’s, Najibi Centre • Café Lilou, Various Locations • Dome, Various Locations • Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Tilly’s, Jawad Dome • Time Café, Ramee Rose Hotel • Eat Café, Hamala

TEA ROOM • Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • The Lobby Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Tea Garden, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • The Tea Room, Trousseau • Espressamente Illy Café, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Furn Rotunda, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

PATISSERIE • Cake Boutique, Seef • Delice, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Haute Cupcakes, Seef • Patisserie ART, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Macaron, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Jena Bakery, Muharraq • Figs & Olives, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Furn Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

COFFEEHOUSE • Costa Coffee, Various Locations • Starbucks, Various Locations • Esquires, Various Locations • Gloria Jean’s Coffee, Various Locations • Caribou Coffee, Various Locations • Columbus Café & Co, Various Locations • Jasmi’s Coffee, Various Locations

BUSINESS LUNCH • Lanterns, Riffa • Golestan, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Nirvana, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana

NOMINEES

THEMED NIGHT • Monday’s Seafood Night, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Surf ‘n’ Turf, Royal Golf Club • Izakaya Sundays, Bushido Restaurant & Lounge • Wahine Tuesday, Trader Vic’s/Mai-Tai • Sushi ART, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Steak Night, InterContinental Regency Bahrain

FRIDAY BRUNCH • Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Choices, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Le Domain [34] & Le Sauvage, The Domain Hotel & Spa

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BRUNCH • Al Waha, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Choices, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Links, Royal Golf Club • Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana • Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Chocoholic Friday Brunch, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

INDEPENDENT WEEKEND BRUNCH • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge • Café Amsterdam & La Vinoteca Barcelona • Meisei Friday Brunch • Movenpick Thursday Night Out • Traditional Roasts Weekend, Royal Golf Club

NEWCOMER • Furn Bistro & Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Torino Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya • Teatro, Downtown Rotana • Troufa, Al Raya Mall • Reem Al Bawadi, Ramada Manama City Centre • Roti Boti, Al Areen Palace & Spa fact magazine

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society

#BAM #Cafe #juffair #Soft #Opening

#All-New #D Q #Bakes #Launch

BAM, Baguettes and More, held a soft opening for select media and lifestyle bloggers last month. Hosted by LWH Group, BAM is part of a brand new development of shops located in Juffair. Choose from freshlybaked white or brown baguettes, delicious tortilla wraps, healthy salads or melt-in-your-mouth jacket potatoes. BAM baguettes come in three sizes: small, medium and mega; all for the same price!

Representatives from Jawad Business Group were joined by members of the media for the launch of the all new DQ Bakes system, which is now available in three DQ stores in Bahrain. The special lunch product review is the largest new menu rollout in DQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 75-year history. Innovative products have been added across three categories: Hot Desserts Ă la Mode, Artisan-style Sandwiches and Snack Melts.

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Feel the Furn When was the last time you came across a restaurant that served up good-quality Khaleeji cuisine, tasty enough to shout about? FACT accepted an exclusive invitation to check out the brand new Furn Bistro & Bakery at The Westin Bahrain City Centre and, trust us, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth more than just one conversation.

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on the menu

I

n a place like Bahrain where a new restaurant with another new concept pops up every other week, it’s getting increasingly challenging to bring something fresh to the food scene, but we may have found something that ticks all the boxes.

Enter Furn Bistro & Bakery at The Westin Bahrain City Centre; a huge contemporary venue filled with comfortable seating, chic and earthy interiors, and modern touches – like the bigger-than-average rolling pins used to create a cool and classy lighting fixture – now, THAT’s definitely something we haven’t seen before. Furn also gets two other crucial things right: the food and the service.

Creative Khaleeji cuisine, infused with the heart and soul of the region, is prepared by passionate chefs and brought to your table. The menu is both familiar yet different, with dishes like mezza starters, machboos, madrooba, mixed grill, seafood and traditional Arabic dessert all making an appearance. What helps them to stand out is the use of innovative cooking methods and artistic presentation. Plus, every dish has a story; from the mezza tale, to the grills, the strudel and even the karak, Furn will feed you interesting facts alongside the tasty food.

In Arabic, the word Furn (Fur‘n) simply means ‘oven’. This speaks of tradition, the time honored techniques of baking, roasting and grilling, as well as the authentic recipes and flavours of the region. The name also links to the artisan chefs and bakers for whom the oven is an indispensible tool to create their art. And so, Furn Bistro & Bakery fuses together culinary skill and local authenticity to deliver a truly unique dining experience.

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Take what was our favourite dish on the menu: Prawn Fie Qataath, which is locally caught prawns baked in mutabbaq style pastry with coriander, mint labneh and zesty lemon. An incredibly hearty dish, this is THE meal that many families in Bahrain prepare for visitors who they haven’t seen for a very long time. Not only is it delicious, it’s interactive too. The chef will come out and show you how the pastry pot is flipped over to reveal the fresh ingredients inside – amazing!

The hummus duo, the muhammara, and the smoked moutabel were all talking points at the table. Especially the Furn hummus which is blended with sundried tomato, roasted paprika and balsamic vinegar – just wow! With that said, it was the Bistro Tabouleh that had us all whipping out our phones to take pictures.

This was just one of the few dishes that came with the liquid nitrogen fog – move over Heston Blumenthal – there’s a new master chef in town!

For something simpler, we also tried the Bahraini Lamb Tikka and the Chicken Machboos. Both are packed with distinct spices from the region and are sure to be

on the menu big palate-pleasers for meat lovers as well as diners who value commitment to spoton, locally-sourced produce – this is what gives Furn its foodie edge.

Case in point: the gloriously stretchy Kunafa doused in rose and orange blossom syrup, and the Arabic Ice Cream, flavoured with saffron and rosewater (and presented using the theatrical liquid nitrogen), are both dishes made not with bog-standard ingredients, but with the best flavours of the Gulf. These desserts are thrilling and absolutely delectable. Prepare to guard them with your spoon.

Furn offers Khaleeji cuisine like we’ve never seen (or tried) before. Its continental twist on classics is like a breath of fresh air in Bahrain’s swarming culinary landscape. Whether you drop by the bistro for lunch or dinner, or stop by the bakery for the yummy sandwiches, desserts and beverages, the chances are that Furn Bistro & Bakery will be at the top of your let-usmeet-for-food choice, for a long time. ✤ GO: Visit Furn Bistro & Bakery at The Westin Bahrain City Centre. Open from 8am to midnight. Call 1717 4441 for information.

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society

#The #Amazing #Tastes #of #Thailand

#Oysho #Reopening #at #City #Centre #Bahrain

A press conference was held for the announcement of the 2016 Amazing Tastes of Thailand festival, which will take place at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa in early September. The festivities are hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand in collaboration with the Royal Thai Embassy in Bahrain, and will celebrate the food, culture and traditions of Thailand over a whole week.

Oysho Bahrain reopened its doors at City Centre Bahrain with a fun event last month. Oysho has several different product lines: lingerie, gymwear, sleepwear, beachwear, accessories and footwear. The collections are carefully selected to offer comfortable, quality items which are stylish and fashionable, and the current AW16 collection is already in the store now.

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A Chocolate Seduction W e l o v e o u r s e lv e s a g o o d p i e c e o f c h o c o l at e – e s p e ci a l ly w h e n i t ’ s m a d e usi n g r aw a n d d e l ici o us i n g r e d i e n t s . N e x t t im e y o u r a p p e t i t e f o r t h e k i n g o f a l l - t h i n g s - sw e e t k ic k s i n , ta k e a t r i p t o t h e l o v e ly T r o u fa B r e a d & C h o c o l at e t o s e e w h at y o u c a n f i n d t o t r y … fact magazine

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Culinary Spotlight

W

hether it’s white, dark, milk, truffles, cream or pralines, it’s no secret that once you consume chocolate, chocolate will consume you. And if you’re going to go out there and eat chocolate to your heart’s content – you’ve got to do it properly.

There’s no better place than Troufa Bread & Chocolate, located in Al Raya Mall, Juffair, to help curb all your sweet tooth cravings.

Chocolate is the cornerstone of the brand as Troufa means Truffle in Greek. The renowned brand began as a boutique chocolaterie in Athens, and its expertise in chocolate helped to put Troufa on the map. Chocolate is made using fresh, raw ingredients for guests to indulge in. There’s literally a glass, temperature-controlled room inside the venue which houses all of the delicious chocolate that you can spoil yourself with. And these aren’t just your ordinary chocolates – oh no. Let your taste buds wander with flavours like vanilla, nutmeg, mastica, tiramisu, sweet paprika, green tea, gianduja, salted caramel, blueberry, and so many more exquisite, signature, and some more unconventional, chocolate creations that will go down perfectly after your meal, snack or just with a nice cuppa!

One of our absolute favourites has to be the Gianduja, pronounced zhahn-doo-yuh (this is the stuff in nutella). It’s chocolate made with toasted hazelnuts ground into powder. It still has a smooth, chocolatey texture, but has the wonderful nutty flavour that goes so well with a hot drink. It’s an Italian or Swiss invention, depending on which stories you believe. But, really, who cares? It’s SO yummy.

Alongside the creative chocolate concoctions, Troufa is also a great bakerycum-patisserie. It has all time favourite desserts like éclairs, macaroons, cakes, tarts, pies, waffles and profiteroles. All crafted with the perfect balance of flavours and substance. Try the Brownies with Hazelnut Praline or the variety of French Eclairs, and the Crispy Tart with Almond Powder and Fresh Lemon Cream – it’s todie-for. Expect visually stunning foodie treats that taste amazing too!

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Culinary Spotlight

Breads and pastries are baked every few hours at Troufa, to guarantee freshness.

You can find anything from traditional brioche to rare varieties such as popular super foods, gluten free baguettes and sandwiches, petites feuilles, quiches, croque-monsieur and lots of other liplicking savoury pies and pastries.

Fresh baked goods, sweet delights, and heavenly chocolates – this is what you’ll find at Troufa Bread & Chocolate. The venue combines the aroma of a French bakery, the buzz of an Italian espresso bar and the look of a Manhattan café – what more could you want? The selection of coffee is always the finest 100% Arabica, the baristas are specially trained and incredibly friendly, and the food is scrumptious. This is the kind of place where you can sit and work, meet up with friends for a quick snack and catch up, or visit for a leisurely lunch of many mouthwatering choices – take your pick.

Don’t let “so much chocolate, so little time” hold you back from all the melt-in-yourmouth goodness of the chocolatey delights that await at Troufa. And whilst you’re there, grab a quick bite to eat and a drink to quench your thirst – it’s the ideal place for all your culinary wishes to come true. ✤

GO: Visit Troufa Bread & Chocolate on the second floor in Al Raya Mall, Juffair. Call 1755 0840 and follow @troufabh on instagram for more information. fact magazine

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society

#MIDDLE #EA ST #HOSPITAL #PRESS #CON FERENCE

#INTERNATIONAL #YOGA #DAY #AT #MARRIOTT

Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Middle East Hospital (MEH) will set up a specialised Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Centre with the support of a world renowned gastroenterologist and an expert hepatologist. MEH Chairman Varghese Kurian signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Philip Augustine Associates Private Ltd, a Kerala-based healthcare consultancy. The newly opened state-of-the-art BD7 million, 85-bed MEH is located in Segaya.

Marriott Executive Apartments Manama and Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair held a fantastic yoga session in committment to its latest initiative to promote health and awareness, in celebration of the International Yoga Day. The event was held in joint partnership with Al Raya Mall and The Kingdom Ayurverdic Center, and offered guests a relaxing yoga class to unwind and de-stress.

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Home away from home…

I f y o u ’ v e b e e n l o o k i n g f o r s o m e w h e r e n e w t o f r e q u e n t, t h at ’ s a l i t t l e bi t d i f f e r e n t, t h e n t h e r e c e n t ly- o p e n e d T o r i n o r e s ta u r a n t a n d l o u n g e i n A d l i ya mi g h t j us t b e t h e a n sw e r t o y o u r l o n g i n g … fact magazine

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foodie corner

A

brand new Mediterranean steakhouse, Torino, is definitely distinctive with its life-size bull feature at the entrance of the venue, it canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be missed!

Just as much attention to detail of the exterior has been paid to as the interiors with rustic metallic sheets covering the walls, which when lit up at night, is truly a sight to behold.

The interiors are spacious with an eclectic mix of a warehouse feel (think chains, tires, rustic metal and raw concrete), with the use of luxurious furnishings punctuated by eccentric Brit pop accents.

Downstairs is the main dining area with private sections if you prefer more of an intimate feel. Upstairs youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the lounge bar where you can relax with friends over a drink or a bite to eat.

Offering excellent value for money with large portion sizes, the menu features a confident variety of soups, tasty appetisers, attractive seasonal salads, pastas, pizzas, meat and seafood cuisine as well as desserts.

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Ask for the delicious daily specials of soup, fish and steak dishes.

Torino is fast building a reputation for their excellent high quality meats, choose from a variety of tender melt-in-the-mouth chicken dishes, as well as succulent meat specialties such as American (fillet, rib eye, New Yorker Steak) and Australian (fillet) Certified Angus Beef, beef ribs, tenderloin, lamb cutlets, strip loin and burgers.

Throughout the weekends you can enjoy the beats of the in-house DJ who plays lounge, commercial and R&B tunes reflecting the

foodie corner vibe of the crowd.

Ladies night on Tuesdays offers canapés and selected house beverages from 8pm to midnight for a small cover charge.

An exciting new initiative for Sunday and Monday nights; every guest who dines will be given the opportunity at the end of their meal to flip the Torino coin - call it right and the house picks up the bill!

Their service is second to none on the island. The staff are attentive and endearing, welcoming every guest like it was their own place, so much so that Torino is quickly building up a loyal following of regulars.

With an exclusive door policy and dress code, Torino attracts a high caliber crowd of people, who resonate with feel goods times and fine quality. ✤

“ T o r i n o i s fast building a r e p u tat i o n f o r their excellent

GO: Torino is now open to take VIP lounge table bookings, restaurant reservations and venue hire for private occasions.

Call 7766 6688, follow on Instagram: @torino.bh, Twitter: @torino_bh, and Facebook: @torinobahrain for more information.

h i g h q u a l i t y, sp e c i a lt y m e ats . ”

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Eid Deals

Eid Goals With Eid Al-Adha taking place this month, Bahrain’s hotels and restaurants have some wonderful ways for you to celebrate the occasion.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha Lunch WHERE: La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain WHEN: Over Eid Start another great traditional festivity with the family and celebrate with good food and a lovely ambience at Crowne Plaza Bahrain.

From 12.30pm to 3pm for BD15.750 net with special rates for children below 12-years-old.

Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha Brunch WHERE: Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana WHEN: Second and Third Day of Eid Celebrate Eid Al-Adha at Flavours on 2 Restaurant with your nearest and dearest while you enjoy a special brunch featuring a lavish buffet with delicious selections of oriental and international dishes. Priced at a cool BD20 net including unlimited juices, soft drinks and water or BD24 net including unlimited selected beverages. Kids can have a great time too in the special kids room filled with toys, games and a variety of fun activities, supervised by trained staff at all times.

Call 1311 9999 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha Brunch WHERE: Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay WHEN: Three Days of Eid For those craving an appealing culinary journey, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is offering a three–day Eid Al-Adha Brunch where guests are invited to enjoy an exciting atmosphere with a live band in the hotel’s all day dining restaurant. Served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

Younger guests are invited to enjoy the exciting Kids For All Seasons programme which features 132 fact magazine

daily educational activities, arts and crafts, cinema hours, face painting, and lots more fun in the Kids For All Seasons Club which is complimentary for brunch guests. Priced at BD27++ including soft beverages and BD37++ for the extended beverage package.

Call 1711 5000 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha Family Lunch WHERE: La Med, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain WHEN: September 11 to 13 Capture intimacy, spontaneity and fun with family members as you celebrate Eid Al-Adha.

Enjoy an extravagant buffet of international specialties at La Med restaurants, along with live cooking stations and a lavish selection of mouthwatering desserts. Served from 12noon to 3.30pm for BD21++ per person. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet of Arabian and Mediterranean cuisine at La Med. Relax on the beautiful terrace overlooking the pool and hotel gardens and enjoy the generous surroundings whilst spending time with family and friends. Available 7pm to 11pm from BD15++ per person.

Call 1758 6499 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Celebration WHERE: Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel WHEN: Three Days of Eid Share a delicious lunch or dinner together Al Safir Restaurant serving up a special themed buffet and fun-filled activities for children. There will be clowns, fun games, henna designing, face painting, competitions and more for children to enjoy at Al Iwan. There’s going to be Arabic live entertainment during lunch and dinner during on all three days of Eid. Lunch is served from 12.30pm to 4pm and dinner runs from 7.30pm to 11.30pm. Don’t miss out! Eid lunch is priced at BD18.5++ for adults and BD8++ for children aged four to 12-yearsold; and the Eid dinner buffet is priced at BD14.9++. Children under four-years-old eat for free.

Call 1753 3533 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha WHERE: InterContinental Regency Bahrain WHEN: Three Days of Eid Selections all-day dining will host guests for Eid. You can enjoy a special lunch buffet for BD14++ including Eid specialities and a buffet especially for children too. From 12noon to 3pm.

Call 1722 7777 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha WHERE: The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa Zahle Restaurant: Immerse yourself in new and exclusive entertainment with the famous belly dancer Ranya, accompanied by celebrated Arabic singer Robensa for daily live-entertainment, throughout the three days of Eid. Available will be a set dinner menu for BD26++ per person.

Al Waha Restaurant: A special Eid buffet will be served for lunch and dinner on all three days of the celebrations for BD19++ per person on day one. On day two and three a special Eid brunch will include live entertainment from Latin duo Cris and Toni as well as fun-filled activities for children.

Priced at BD33 net with premium drinks; and BD25 net with soft beverages.

Takht Jamsheed: The talented all-Iranian team will set the stage for a perfect Eid lunch buffet of two days, taking inspiration from Persia. Priced at BD18++ per person. Special rate is available for Prestige Club Members and Corporate Groups.

Call 1771 3000 for reservations and more information.

WHAT: Eid Al-Adha Brunch WHERE: ART Rotana Amwaj Islands Bahrain WHEN: Three Days of Eid Eid brunch is served at Choices Terrace featuring a vast array of superb live cooking stations, the one of a kind winery section where you can sample premium vino, plus drinks stands and music entertainment. There’s even a kids club to keep the little ones entertained! Enjoy the bright and open atmosphere and marvel at the beautiful sea views from your table. From 12.30pm to 4pm, for BD34 net.

Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information.

Eid Deals

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bahrain bites

Brunch All’Italiana

Kohitsuji Menu

Sushi ART @ WU

One of the country’s best Italian dining spots is introducing an amazing new Friday Brunch, starting September 9. Primavera, at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, is opening its doors for a Trattoria Moderna style brunch. Enjoy an unlimited selection of delightful dishes prepared by Italian Chef, Alfonso Ferraioli and served by Italian ladies and gents. Eat to your heart’s content with a free-flowing menu selection, priced at BD24++ inclusive of soft bevergaes and BD34++ inclusive of alcoholic beverages.

Brunch will run from 1pm to 4pm – we can’t wait to try it out!

Enjoy the essence of luxury Japanese cuisine at Bushido Restaurant and Lounge as the chef’s very special Kohitsuji menu makes its way to your table throughout September. Elegant and rich, lamb is the essence of gourmet with its ability to turn any meal into a special occasion. It’s a meat-lovers favourite and this menu draws on every foodie’s love for lamb. Starters on the menu include the mouthwatering Spicy Lamb Roll, the exquisite Kohitsuji Skewers and the succulent Lamb Usukuri. Meanwhile, the deep and complex main courses available as an extension to the September a la carte dining include Iranian Lamb Shank Stew and Xin Jiang Chili Lamb. How liplicking does that sound?

Indulge your sushi cravings with this new all-you-can-eat and drink promotion.

Visit the fresh sushi counter as often as you like and enjoy selected beverages all evening plus a set menu of hot dishes shall be delivered straight to your table for sharing. Available every Tuesday for BD21++. It’s the perfect outing for catching up with friends over good food and drinks, all set in the beautiful surroundings of WU Restaurant and Lounge at ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands.

GO: Call 1758 6499 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1758 3555 for reservations and more information.

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GO: Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information.

bahrain bites

CUT to the Chase

Friday Brunchin’

Dining Deals @ RGC

Warm, masculine and intimate, CUT Bar & Lounge exudes a glamorous 1920’s club atmosphere, with rich, dark colours, gilded columns and a custom wall fresco. This stunning venue at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay has a superbly crafted wood bar anchored by a glass-walled, walk-in wine and whisky room. Every Saturday and Sunday enjoy Wolfgang Puck’s signature bites and drinks from a cool BD3, between 5pm to 7pm. That’s one amazing deal!

It still remains one of the most popular Friday brunches in town, so if you haven’t yet checked out the Movenpick Hotel Bahrain’s weekend offering, mke sure you do it this month! Spoil yourself with the award-winning, international brunch.

Whether you want to relax or recover, this is the place to be. The selection of dishes and desserts caters for every taste, with casual yet stylish fun. The live cooking stations and entertainment will be a fitting way to start the weekend.

Friday brunch is priced at BD36 net including free sparkling bubbly, Irish coffee and the infamous mojitos. From 12.30pm to 4pm.

The Royal Golf Club’s Executive Chef, Paul Gindra, has introduced a new treat to the weekly dining specials available in the award-winning Links restaurant.

Tuesdays are now all you can eat ribs days with unlimited succulent barbecued ribs for just BD12 net per person. If ribs aren’t your thing, why not try two for one Mondays, or 40% off steaks on Wednesdays, or even Surf n Turf Thursdays instead?

GO: Call 1711 5044 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1775 1262 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1746 0017 for reservations and more information.

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PEP TALK

Change takes time and effort

Your vision for the future

Yvonne Cole, Personal Trainer, believes that when you eat clean, train hard and trust the process, your consistency and patience pays off…

Christal Dennis, Personal Performance Coach and Hypnotherapist, is dedicated to helping people overcome life’s hurdles and tapping into their deepest potential...

Everyone has their own reason for embarking on a lifestyle change but to make those changes you need to get rid of your bad habits and make new ones; this can be challenging, but adopting new ones is the key to setting yourself up for success.

As a personal trainer, I know that the moment someone makes that call to me it’s the first step on their journey to making a change. But, having a personal trainer doesn’t mean things will change unless you put in the work.

Recently, I’ve had two conversations regarding what it takes to achieve the success you require. The first was with someone with diabetes; more than once she has come to the session without eating anything and of course she said nothing until I asked, as I could see her performance was below par. Even though this client has had diabetes for many years now she has chosen not to follow any medical advice, other than employing a personal trainer, to make any changes to her lifestyle or eating habits, but is upset with the lack of progress.

The second is a survivor of a serious illness and has decided that the only change she will make is to have a personal trainer but nothing else. No matter what anyone says she is adamant her eating habits are fine.

Listen to people who are there to help you and remember change takes time and commitment. ✤

Many of us have dreams for the future, or we say oh it would be so wonderful if we could do this or that. But then life slowly happens and we slowly get steered away from those things that we wished for ourselves. Then the next thing you know, you’re living a life that you didn’t intend at all and you notice that you just don’t feel right. And it could be that you’ve lost track of your dreams so much that you don’t even understand why your life just doesn’t feel good.

Dreams that one holds for oneself can pertain to all kinds of things like the kind of career you would like to have, living in a specific place or a certain kind of lifestyle you would like to live. For example you could be a very outdoorsy kind of person like my son who loves activities like sand boarding and quad biking. All these preferences, hopes and dreams, add to the definition of who we are as a person. When all your hopes and dreams are ignored, you deny parts of yourself and that can feel very uncomfortable.

So have a close look at your life. Notice where and how you’ve lost track of your dreams. You can make those dreams a reality even if it is in some small ways. Create a very specific vision for the future and notice how that vision makes you feel. If it feels good then you’re on the right track. ✤

GO: Email ymcfitness@gmail.com or call 3935 9105 for more information.

GO: Call 3669 6666 for a personal consultation and more information.

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Summer Shopping

#Al #Haddad #Motors #GLS #Roadshow

Georgina Jennsen is the LADY behind the popular lifestyle blog, Blonde in Bahrain. Georgina loves all things beautiful and luxurious.

If you had to describe your personal style in a few words, what would they be? Mine would be unfussy and unstructured, with comfort and confidence being the main aim. I can’t bear the thought of walking around all day in a severely tailored jacket and heels, and one of my greatest fears is getting stuck halfway out of too-tight dress in a random changing room somewhere.

In order to best predict future fashion trends, we can usually look to the past, and the coming season is no exception. Think 1980s - bright and puffy bomber jackets, padded shoulders and nipped-in waists. Oh, and a little 70s homemade macrame flair, and flares, thrown in for fun.

Dressing successfully for Bahrain’s summer heat can be tough and requires a good amount of strategic planning.

Consider the fabric - will it breathe and not leave you in sweaty mess? The colour - if you do happen to glow a little more than desired, will your outfit let everyone know? The shape - does it enhance your body from every angle while still giving you room to move? And of course the style does it reflect your personality, look appropriate for the occasion, and make you feel great. If you can’t answer yes to all of these, it’s time to go shopping.

And finally, for the best sources of local fashion inspiration, you need look no further than Instagram. Simply pop #bahrainbloggers into your search bar, and prepare to be delighted. ✤ GO: Keep up with Georgina at www.blondeinbahrain.com and on instagram @blondeinbahrain.

Al Haddad Motors hosted the GLS roadshow in Seef Mall Muharraq last month. The roadshow was on tour across the entire region, and gave the local audience an opportunity to register and test drive the S Class of SUVs - the luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLS on the spot. Drivers immersed themselves in the advancements of the GLS, whilst also experiencing the first-class Mercedes Benz lifestyle with its all-new SUV. fact magazine

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Ramy Hamdoun

Director of Sales and Marketing at Ramada Manama City Centre Bahrain.

island insider Tell us three things that keep you excited about living and working in Bahrain…

What are some of your favorite local, cultural hotspots in Bahrain and why?

One thing is the people that I get to work with every day, because at the end of the day it is the environment of the workplace that contributes towards work being done. Another thing is the calm atmosphere of the place, which allows you to often enjoy days out with the family. Lastly, it is the variety of people with different nationalities that also keeps it quite exciting.

One of my favorite cultural hotspots is the Bahrain National Museum.

I love the modern but interesting design of the building and the vast variety of history it holds of Bahrain.

Another interesting place is Manama Souq. It is eye-opening to see all of the locals and foreigners alike wander through the busy streets. However, the most interesting part is how much of Bahrain’s culture you can see there.

138 fact magazine

Share with us some of your professional goals for the rest of the year…

It is a great privilege to be working within Ramada Manama City Centre Bahrain and I feel extremely dignified to be given this opportunity with such a pristine and outstanding hotel. I am unquestionably prepared to transcend the Sales and Marketing department to utmost success alongside the team.

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140 fact magazine