Ohlala! Bahrain May 2015

Bahrain

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

Maidens of Beauty Your Summer Skincare Guide Eskandar’s Master Craftsmanship

christina

www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com may 2015 | Issue 126 BAHRAIN BD2

milian OHLALA!

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Editor’s Letter

Maidens of Beauty

an Ch

el

So the most exciting news we had this month is that Bushido is celebrating their sixth anniversary, with a special appearance by none other than the gorgeous and most talented, two-time Grammy nominee, Christina Milian.

We get the exclusive story from this American singer, actress and TV personality in Celebrity Scoop before she graces the shores of our beloved desert island. Save the date for May 29, as Christina Milian is set to get the party started!

But wait, the best is yet to come, one lucky Ohlala! reader will get the chance to meet this celebrity in person surrounded by paparazzi, plus get autographed albums from Christina, DJ Ravin and Carlos Campos – check out our social media channels for more details.

This month, Maidens of Beauty will enjoy our feature bursting full of the latest buzz, hot beauty tips and styling secrets. There’s also a summer skincare guide and an exclusive with perfumer JeanChristophe Herault on his latest sparkling mix, with an air of sophistication, Chopard Happy Spirit Amira d’amour.

Draped in tradition, Eskandar’s master craftsmanship runs throughout his luxurious collection.

Find out his story in our style interview.

Kirsty Edwards-Harris, 12

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Editor-in-Chief www.ohlala-magazine.com

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CONTENTS

STYLE 18 Style Icon: Watch Yourself 20 Wish List: Fringe Benefits 32 Style Focus: Court Side Cool STYLE INTERVIEW 38 Eskandar: Draped in Tradition FASHION SHOOT 41 Girl Next Door BEAUTY FILES 50 Maidens of Beauty 54 A to Z of Healthy Skin 56 Chopard’s Spritz of Happiness CHIC EATS 66 Asian-inspired Delicacies 70 For the Love of … Food DIVA DRIVES 74 The Lexus Nx 200T OHLALA! RENDEZVOUS 78 Karima Sharabi & Noora Al Zain 80 Profiles of Faith 82 Sheraton Bahrain Hotel GM TRAVEL ESCAPES 83 Copenhagen In Focus OHLALA! BOUTIQUES 86 Looks For Less

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Eskandar steeped in tradition 14

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SOCIETY PAGE 88 Bahrain Hotspots 89 Shot-On-Site 95 Obusiness OHLALA! STARS 97 Happy Birthday Ms Taurus THE COLUMN 98 The Circle Of Excellence

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OPAL ERIKA

Made for dreaming.

“ADD MORE COLOR TO THE WORLD” #Campaign4Change by Mia.

ray-ban.com

Available at

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Publisher & Chairman Accountants

John Hughes

Gigimon Thankachen

Chief Executive Officer

Praveen Alexander

Greg Hughes Publishing Director

Distribution

Edward Smith

Team Jayapragash Ganesan

Editor-in-Chief

Rajesh

Kirsty Edwards-Harris

Abdul Kadar

Editor

Distribution

Karina Lazarraga

Bahrain – Al Hilal

Regional Fashion

Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

& Beauty Editor Georgie Bradley

Printing Press

Editor-at-Large

United Printing Press

Ben Whittaker www.ohlala-magazine.com

Motoring Editor Tony Sidgwick

Enquiries Editorial: editor@ohlala-magazine.com Advertising: chelsea@ohlala-magazine.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 Postal Address: Ohlala! Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain

Creative Director Paula Leal

Lan

vin

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication.

However, FACT M.E. Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

Senior Graphic Designer Jyoti Rawat Graphic Designer Rashed Bin Daina Sales Manager Nicola Thirsk Account Manager Marina Smera Production Manager Neil Mahmood Distribution Manager Ajit Kumar

Social Media Marketing & Administrative Manager Saud Aldoseri Feature Contributors Giovanni Lisa Speed Melanie Administration

Photographer

Executive

Shobin Joseph

Roy Varghese

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WEDDING TALES AT WOJOOH

Wojooh has Wedding fever!

During the month of May, prep for your big day with all things beauty!

Don’t miss your chance to win exciting wedding surprises all month long!

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@WojoohBeauty www.wojooh.com

Style Icon

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Inspired by New York City and manufactured in Switzerland, the bold new watches are an ode to their founder and master jeweller Charles Lewis Tiffany.

Marked by pure lines and a clean aesthetic, Tiffany CT60 merges extraordinary design and the highest quality materials with Swiss craftsmanship to create a refined watch with vintage character. The case is finished according to exacting Tiffany standards, and a sapphire crystal case back unveils the pedigree Swiss automatic movement.

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Style Trend

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White Noise

A maxi skirt and fringe play? We’re on some serious terrain with this trend now. Not only will this Tamara Mellon (net-aporter.com) skirt keep you cool as the summer heat approaches, the fringe will be a fun distraction when you’re bored!

Boho Chic

If you’re into your music festivals, this Carolina Herrera envelope bag has that relaxed vibe as well as the sophistication to carry you through an evening dinner. The camel colour gives it that extra “outdoor” look.

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Wish List

A Little Party…

There’s been a lot of fringe benefits going around this season and we’ve jumped on the bandwagon to join the frilly fun. Whether you’re into the Wild West or 1920s prohibition trim, there’s lots of swish action to be had.

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…never killed nobody, as Fergie told us in The Great Gatsby.

Kate Moss has given us a treat of a party dress available at Topshop for a decadent night out on the town. Be careful not to get those beads in people’s eyes now..!

Basket Case

Salvatore Ferragamo has created a hybrid ‘shopping – beach – everyday’ bag with your fun tassles on the sidelines. We love the contrast between the structured handles and the woven wicker.

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Handy Items

Flick Flop

Another ode to the festival look, these Saint Laurent sandals will look complete with a pair of ripped denim shorts (with some loose threads) and a lot of attitude.

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This DSQUARED2 purse is all kinds of tassle-tastic. The added suede on the sides is a hot feature this season too.

Move Your Body

With Sonia Rykiel’s studded belt come tassled tease, you’ll be rocking an updated biker look. For that extra bit hard core, add a leather jacket on top and nobody will mess with you. www.ohlala-magazine.com

CITY CENTRE CITY CENTRE | ABU DHABI KUWAIT THE ARABIA RED

BAHRAIN 16686215 | SEEF MALL 16686225 | DUBAI MALL OF THE EMIRATES | THE DUBAI MALL | MIRDIF | DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY MALL | AL GHURAIR CENTRE | DUBAI MARINA MALL | DUBAI OUTLET MALL MARINA MALL | ABU DHABI MALL | FATOUH AL KHAIR | DALMA MALL | AL AIN BAWADI MALL | AVENUES MALL | GATE MALL | SOUQ SHARQ | DOHA LANDMARK | LAGOONA MALL | SAUDI MALL OF SEA MALL | MALL OF DAHRAN | AL SALAAM MALL | RASHID MALL | PANORAMA MALL

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Style Icon

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High Stakes

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From pendants to dripping diamonds, we love these bejeweled beauties. Make the most of your eveningwear with these fine pieces.

1. Cartier 2. Elizabeth Cole; theoutnet.com 3. Cartier 4. Chaumet Paris 5.Chaumet Paris 6. Cartier 7. Chaumet Paris 8. BVLGARI 9. Lanvin 22

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Visit Café Amsterdam’s delightful venue for an exquisite high tea experience.

With our bright & spacious conservatory, a beautiful garden, an extensive range of Jing tea and a variety of delicate sandwiches, attractive cakes, homemade scones and other baked delights, it’s simply divine!

Opposite the Gulf Hotel, Adliya. Telephone: +973 1700 7404 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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FASHION of the Stars

She’s Still Got It Sarah Jessica Parker.

She’s 50 and fabulous.

To celebrate the shoe-wearing passionista’s jubilee, we look at her style through the years from her midriff bearing days to honouring Oscar De La Renta in that dress.

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Pamper your mum in May Every Friday Brunch

50% off for your Mother with a homemade gift

Every Friday of May 2015 From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM Offer her an exquisite Mediterranean Brunch with 50% off the public rate, which means; 9.5 BD Net for her Brunch with soft drinks, or 12.5 BD Net for her Brunch with selected beverages www.ohlala-magazine.com Please call us at 17280700 for any reservations or book online on www.nicolesbh.com

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KENZO

LANVIN

GUCCI

Style Focus

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

Orange is the new Black

GUCCI

It may be the colour of danger, but since a vibrant shade of orange spilled the runways we’ve been causing traffic with our no nonsense “hazardous” outfits. A forewarning though, orange isn’t for the faint hearted – go bold or go home.

T o p S i x Ite m s

LACOSTE

SONIA RYKIEL

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DKNY

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LOEWE

ZARA

SANTONI

MICHAEL BY MICHAEL KORS

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Style Focus A

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City Centre Bahrain 16686213 | Seef Mall 16686223 | Seef Mall Muharraq 16639430

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Style Focus

GUCCI

ACNE STUDIOS

GREEN WITH ENVY

De gRIsogono

theoutnet.com

MICHAEL KORS

Moving along the colour spectrum, we’ve landed on green – but we all know it’s not as linear as that.

Whether it’s a citron, military or jungle green, the eye of the beholder will be wracked with jealousy for you’ll stand out like a warrior with even just a small but sharp injection of green. Feel like being in charge? By all means proceed with a utility option with a waist belt to keep things structured and disciplined.

But if you’re into the louder side of green, a pop of lime will give you a nice bit of fizz.

AIGNER

DESIGUAL: Welcome to the jungle

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ACNE STUDIOS

LOUIS VITTON

YVES Saint LAURENT

SONIA RYKIEL www.ohlala-magazine.com

Alice & Olivia: Turn heads with tribal

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Thoroughly Militant 01. Acne studios; 02. Gucci ; 03. Marc jacobs; 04. MARC JACOBS; 05. M MISSONI

acne studios

burberry

SONIA RYKIEL

Chaumet Paris: Emerald Envy

Cartier

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MICHAEL KORS

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andrew GN; saks fifth avenue

ACNE STUDIOS: protective chic

02 03

koko

Loud & proud

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01. ZARA; 02. COACH; 03. ACNE STUDIOS; 04. cos ; 05. cos; 06. havaianas; net-a-porter.com

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Style Focus ANTEPRIMA

COURT SIDE COOL

Remember when the Spice Girls wore those Netball style midriffbearing bibs paired with leather drainpipes?

PAULE KA

COS

Cos: Keep cool with culottes

Well, we’re not suggesting for a second that we think it’s a winning match but we do think that sporty gear is just as acceptable on women as it is on men.

And even if you’re not the moving type, you can totally masquerade as a gym fanatic – sans sweat patches.

MARIA LUISA

LAAIN

LACOSTE

Céline

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COS

RITA ORA

Rihanna

J CREW

JESSICA ALBA

DKNY: Lengthen the strap for cool vibes

Taking One For The Team These celebrities have scored so many style goals with these ensembles.

FENDI

LACOSTE

Cos: Poolside essentials DKNY: Sporty platforms

ALEXANDER WANG

COS

DSQUARED2

LACOSTE

PUMA

LACOSTE www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Style Focus

EARN YOUR STRIPES

Dries Van Noten: La Vie Boheme!

M MISSONI

CAROLINA HERRERA

There’s something so happy and ‘summer is finally here’ about the nautical look – perhaps because of its association with water (we love a good splash about) but it’s also because there are so many variations that can be achieved with stripes that make them so easy. We hereby declare the fun season open, so go out and play!

LEMLEM; net-a-porter.com

ALICE & OLIVIA

DKNY

Céline: Sidestep stripes

WEILL PAULE KA

TODS

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DKNY

SONIA RYKIEL

DOLCE & GABBANA

Kenzo: Love A Good Optical

SONIA RYKIEL

OPENING CERMONY; net-a-porter.com

CECILIA BRINGHELI

LACOSTE

SONIA RYKIEL

Olivier Rousteing: Hot Air Balloon stripes

JACQUEMUS

TODS

DKNY www.ohlala-magazine.com

ALICE & OLIVIA OHLALA!

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Style Insight

WHO’S THAT GIRL? Fatema FardAn is going places – but she’s also come from places too. Her first foray into fashion began in a top London hotel with a cut of curtain fabric which might have been a nightmare for the hotel staff, but was the beginning of a dream come true for her. Now, she’s set for the biggest runway scene in the world.

How did you come to realise fashion was your calling?

I realised fashion was my calling when I was nine years old. On one family vacation when my parents left me and my siblings unattended for merely five minutes in our hotel room at the Lanesborough in London, being a young girl in love with the idea of fashion design, I instantly noticed the beautiful curtain fabrics, and so young me innocently decided to cut up the curtains and surprise my parents by pretending to be making some dresses. You can imagine my parents were in for quite the big surprise. So from that moment on, my family and I knew that my passion was strongly to carry on, in the fashion industry.

What’s your process when you come up with new ideas?

My process starts with a lot of visual research. I go to art galleries, travel and try to absorb different elements that inspire me, such as architecture, art, culture, nature and history. When I finish compiling my research I then begin sketching and sampling over and over again. This is a timely process but once the samples are approved and made, the finished result is the collection.

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Do you have any part in the making of the clothes or do you leave it to your team to do it?

I do have a team that help me produce my collection but I am very hands on and I inspect every stitch and seam myself.

Your ready-to-wear collection caters for the modern woman. In three words, what defines a woman in the GCC? Refinement, beauty and strength.

The clothes have a very light, airy and feminine look about them. How do you want women to feel when they wear them?

I want women to look like a million dollars in my clothes; that’s one of the reasons I do what I do to make women feel good about themselves on a daily basis.

What influenced the direction of this collection?

The collection was inspired by three major themes; menswear and womenswear from the 50s to the early 60s and traditional Persian art. While I was doing my research for this collection, I was inspired by women from that time where they were finally able to take on important jobs but the way they dressed in their daily life was still very feminine.

I wanted to combine a choice of silhouettes with a variety of techno and conventional fabrics such as laces, silks and jacquards to tell their story with a more modern approach, relevant to our times.

What’s your favorite, go-to item from the collection and why?

My Ana Coat and Fifi Jacket, because both are very versatile. They can be dressed down as well as dressed up.

You’ve also dressed Eva Longoria. How were you approached and what was it like working with the pint-sized actress?

I was approach by Imagine Consulting who asked me if I wanted to dress her and I of course agreed. Eva is not only an actress but also a philanthropist and we felt that she embodied our brand. Eva is very sweet and down to earth. It was a pleasure working with her and we would be happy to work with her again.

The GCC is home to some exquisite and eclectic fashion. Which other part of the world do you think has great statement fashion?

Other than the fashion capitals London, Paris, Milan, New York I believe that Barcelona, as well as Tokyo have a very interesting and dynamic fashion scene.

Perisan Influence: Fatema Fardan

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What can we look forward to with your collection by the time autumn comes about?

My AW15/16 Collection will be presented in New York Fashion week and I will be the first Emirati National to show at New York.

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Style interview

Draped In Tradition Eskandar features billowy, unstructured silhouettes, luxurious fabrics and handdetailing. Master craftsmanship runs throughout the collection. We meet the man behind the brand for an exclusive chat.

WORDS BY KARINA LAZARRAGA

F

ate certainly had a hand in this designer’s success. But Eskandar Nabavi has the skills, talent and determination to pursue his passion for fashion. So when fate came knocking, he was ready.

Eskandar’s break came during the 1990s when Dawn Mello, president of Bergdorf Goodman at the time, waltzed into his tiny shop in London.

Asking him if he wanted to sell his pieces in New York, Eskandar told her that he had approached virtually everyone at Bergdorf Goodman for them to stock his designs, to no avail. Dawn simply told him, ‘Forget all that. I’d love to see your pieces in our store.’ And so the luxury goods giant began with an order of 32 pieces of Eskandar’s cashmere sweaters for the first season. It sold out in three weeks. Following that, they doubled it and the same thing happened. 64 orders became 128, growing steadily from there.

The society women of New York loved Bergdorf Goodman. And they loved this amiable young man even more, driving a viral word-ofmouth campaign for his pieces, which led to more orders. The clothes eventually went into Neiman Marcus... and the rest is history.

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What started as a knitwear company in the 1990s has grown into a full-fledged label that includes women’s and men’s wear, as well as a small children’s line wittily dubbed ‘Eskinder’.

His signature fashion line is made for everyone of all shapes and sizes. Using fabrics such as silk and antique linen, Eskandar’s fashionable pieces are relaxed, play with volume and brings a touch of earthy, old-world culture to the wearer. His signature pieces include the popular Japanese trousers, along with his cashmere sweatshirts and Tibetan-shaped pieces.

Eskandar is now sold in over 50 locations worldwide. The collections can also be found at his flagships in London, Paris, Los Angeles, New York and Chicago.

In the plush VIP area of Saks Fifth Avenue in Bahrain where he showed his most recent collections, the very humble designer tells us that at a young age he was very creative and passionate about varying cultures due to his parents’ travels.

Born to an English mother and Persian father, Eskandar travelled with them throughout Europe and the Far East. His love of travel also stirred his interest in discovering various cultures and traditions.

“I’m not trained at all in fashion. I’m completely self-taught,” Eskandar shares. “My grandmother taught me how to knit when I was about 11 and I was always making things. I learned how to sew, crochet and I wanted to sell them.

So my business side and artistic side were always intertwined,” he adds.

Eskandar’s concept is simple and traditional: a focus on flowing shapes that make the garments easy to wear. “It’s taking shapes that have been around for centuries and turning them into something modern and wearable. Based on functionality rather than trends, traditional clothes are loose and free flowing,” he describes.

So what’s next for the brand? “There are no plans for new boutiques right now, as from the start it’s always been organic. We will be spending more time on marketing, and we’ll be working on our children’s line ‘Eskinder’” The label will also be bringing out their men’s collection for Spring 2016; as well their jewellery pieces and home range.

Eskandar is available at Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain and over 50 locations worldwide including its flagships in London, New York, Paris, LA and Chicago. Visit www. eskandar.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

“The Eskandar woman is artsy, slightly forward and doesn’t want to follow trends or fashion – she wants to be an individual.”

www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Coming soon... ... to Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

CHEAP

OVER 65 LOOKS TO

THRILLS

LUX FOR LESS

MAKE YOU FEEL PHENOMENAL

YOUR STAR BUYS FOR SPRING CATWALK REPORT

GUCCI

Anja Rubik’s

FOR THE EFFORTLESSLY ELEGANT WOMAN

MODEL STYLE

BEHIND

THE ANIMAL HEART NINA PERSSON

MEGAWATT FASHION

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THE GIRL NEXT DOOR The season is changing and so should your makeup!

Look au naturel with these easy and dreamy looks.

In association with Bourjois and Jo Lamode Boutique Photographer: George Mathew (www.greyimage.com) | Location: Sheraton Doha Hotel | MUA & Hairstylist: Karen Montgomery (@karenmontgomerymakeup) | Wardrobe: Abayas by Reesha Design available at Jo Lamode Boutique | Modeling Agency: Trinity Talent Qatar (www.trinitytalentqatar.com) www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Celebrity Scoop

Christina Milian Storms Bahrain Two-time Grammy nominee Christina Milian is set to grace our shores this month, to celebrate the sixth anniversary of Bushido Restaurant & Lounge. Kirsty Edwards-Harris gets the inside scoop.

To what do you attribute your rise to fame?

Christina Milian. A little bit of everything but I would have to say my music career pretty much was the foundation. I’ve been around for a long time acting and singing but people really got to know who Christina Milian was the day that they heard Between me and you with me and Ja Rule. After that it was single after single, movie after movie, television shows – all of that started because of my music.

How do you manage to stay grounded in such a highflying industry?

CM. Family, and I’m honestly humble because I’m living out my dream. I feel very fortunate to do what I love, to be creative, and to motivate and inspire others. Plus God. Once you appreciate and recognise your opportunities and know where they come from, you stay grounded and focused and appreciate every moment. My fans’ support is like no other.

Who do you most liken yourself with?

CM. I guess you could say Madonna. I always admired her business ethic. She’s a feminist. She’s not afraid to speak up and be a b*#@$ when she has to.

And she’s not afraid to stay young forever.

Who’s your role model /icon?

CM. I suppose people like Jennifer Lopez who has set the standards for a young Latina like myself. She sings, she acts, she dances, she does so much yet she stays grounded and rooted in her background of being a Latina. And she’s always super cool. She does what she loves! And she looks good while doing so!

How do you give back to society?

CM. I do a lot of philanthropy with a couple different foundations. I’ve done everything from rebuilding homes for wounded veterans, to those who have lost theirs in natural disasters. I love to work with children and help rebuild the mind and spirit of the youth of today. Really inspire them. As a mother I love working with the youth because they’re a representation of the next generation. I love to show them that there is a chance to have a bright future.

What inspires your songwriting?

CM. Real life! Mark me, at this point in my life I’ve experienced a lot through relationships, the ups and downs. I’ve been able to overcome so much but I feel like my songwriting is a great outlet. It’s like therapy.

What’s your most memorable moment?

CM. The most memorable moment was singing Cryin with Aerosmith while filming the movie Be Cool. That was pretty awesome because it was at a live concert in Boston and had one chance to do it and we got it done and it looks really great. I was definitely living in the moment. Something I would never have imagined getting to do.

Top beauty tip?

CM. Water, water, Connie. It heals everything. It helps your mood, it helps your digestion, it’s great for your skin.

What’s your personal fashion style and advice for others to find their own unique look?

CM. Finding your own style is exactly that, within yourself. Make decisions based on your mood and don’t be afraid to mix vintage clothing with high-end and low-end. It really doesn’t matter, do what you want. My rule is: There are no rules!

What do you feel are the most important foundations for life?

CM. God and Family. True faith erases all fear.

What can fans expect from your visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain?

CM. It turned up in good time! I’ve never been to Bahrain and I’m excited as I hear it’s a lot of fun out there and they’re down to have a good time like I am, so be ready to party!

What are your visions for the future?

CM. My visions for the future are to continue my journey to success and happiness and to further work on my dream of being an entrepreneur. Build a life for my family for generations to come. Whatever I do, I want to just be happy doing it.

See Christina Milian Live in Bahrain on May 29 at Bushido www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Feature

Maidens of Beauty Here’s a warm-weather plan – your beauty guide to get you looking radiant and in tip-top-shape for the season.

Naturally Good Per-fekt Cosmetics founder Richard Anderson understands that the busy woman of today often function in a high performance and personally demanding world. This means more and more women simply don’t have the time to invest in a lengthy beauty ritual. With never a spare moment in their schedules, women need simple and dependable beauty products that can multi-task as gracefully as they do.

Now available in Bahrain, the LA-based brand has launched technologically advanced products that simply ‘per-fekt’ the way women wear cosmetics. Merging advanced skincare formulations with colour, Per-fekt’s multi-functional products that are quick and easy to apply, longlasting, and offer an alternative to traditional beauty products.

Per-fekt Cosmetics are available at Wow

by Wojooh in Seef Mall and The Makeup Manual.

Enchanting Florals

Enter into a world of quality and refinement.

Introducing the enchanting Oha by Teo Cabanel – an evening fragrance that combines the most precious and noble essences. Transcending time and space, this mysterious perfume will appeal to women with a true personality. A fresh sweep of bergamot harmony with a delicate tea aroma.

Voluptuous roses from Bulgaria and Morocco, jasmine from Egypt, creates its heart of spicy notes enhanced with Guatemala Cardamom. Oha is topped off by the captivating powdery notes of vanilla, iris, tonka bean and exotic woods lifted by a note of white musk.

TEO CABANEL full range is exclusively available at The Perfume Lounge, Seef Mall, Gate 4, 1st floor.

Tel. 1714 0147 and Instagram: @the_perfume_ lounge

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Indulgent Rituals Nothing says class better than a lady that’s put-together whatever the occasion. Dessange ensures you look your best from top-to-toe with a range of their beauty and spa treatments as well as a host of their fitness packages.

Go for an indulgent Moroccan bath, or for a hair styling session that suits your personality and style, a rejuvenating facial or full-body wax or even a consultation to help you choose the best style for your big day.

Call Dessange at 1771 3999

Luxurious Treats It can’t get any more luxurious than this. Santa Maria Novella, founded in 1612, the heritage Florentine brand is the oldest surviving pharmacist.

Originating as herbal remedies prepared by monks, the illustrious company creates handmade products for the face and body. The brand expertly lets tradition meet innovation and offer exquisite treatments that are sure to melt your stresses away.

Don’t forget to peruse their luxurious range of products so you can re-create the experience in the comfort of your home.

Santa Maria Novella is at first floor of Al A’ali Mall Complex. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Feature Happiness Notes

In their newest collection yet, Bath & Body Works launches ‘Love & Sunshine’ – their happiest, most fresh and playful fragrance under the sun! Guaranteed to put smiles all around, the collection is a bright, happy blend of the juiciest fruits, brightest blooms and most cheerful citrus – happiness in a bottle! Its top notes open with pear blossom, mara strawberry, juicy kiwi, sweet lemon and honeydew melon. At its heart, you’ll find sunkissed daisies, lily of the valley and golden honeysuckle topped off by coconut orchid, amber and cedar woods and sunshine musk.

Bath & Body Works is available at City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall

Ray of Sunshine

Ready to sparkle? Inglot sets you up for a magical ride with its collection for the season. Their new collection, ‘Fall in Love’ looks delicate, sparkly and perfect for spring and of course summer! The collection is comprised of the latest Freedom System from INGLOT with five shimmering eye shadows, five metallic AMC eyeliner gels and five nail enamels. The colour palette will include cool, warm and neutral tones with the aptly romantic names Rosé Mist, Silver Blues, Fine Pine, Fields of Gold and Golden Brown. Celebrate Inglot’s passion for richness and vibrancy of colour, reminiscent of romantic sunsets and starry nighttime skies.

Inglot is available at City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall

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The Super Makeup Calling all ladies! Wake up to radiance with Rimmel’s skinperfecting makeup. You know what’s good about it? It brightens skin with a natural, healthy looking glow! No more tell-tale signs of the big party the night before. Good eh? Come alive each morning with the specially formulated nine-in-one new BB Radiance Cream.

It primes, smoothens, conceals, moisturises and minimise the appearance of pores that awaken and brighten the skin, whilst creating natural coverage and even radiant finish! Formulated with vitamin C complex and nourishing shea butter, this BB Cream really does it all. How’s that for a beauty fix?

Luxury in a Jar Delivering legendary lift and luminosity, La Prairie invites you to enter a world of pure elegance with the White Caviar Collection. Its exceptional brightening and firming benefits are enhanced with golden caviar extracts, liquid crystals and pearlescence for a softly lit luminosity.

Uneven tones appear to fade away, skin looks more firm.

Perfect for those who love baking in the sun, the new White Caviar Illuminating Moisturising Cream targets specific discolouration by brightening the skin before, during and after pigmentation problems arise. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Coming Clean

Great skin just got better. Allergy-tested and 100 percent fragrance-free, Clinique has just introduced, the Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush. Revolutionising the way women care for their skin by transforming the important first step, cleansing – this product is a dermatologistdeveloped, Swiss-engineered cleansing innovation that will transform skin. Designed to work in partnership with Clinique’s Three-Step Skin Care System, the product makes your skin instantly smoother and more radiant.

Available at Clinique counters at Saks Fifth Avenue & Wow by Wojooh

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Beauty Tips

The A-Z of Healthy Skin If you’ve been plagued with permanent teenage type skin, fret not.

It happens to the best of us; and although we’ve got makeup to sort us out, it’s time to pin point the lifestyle factors attributing to better skin.

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Avoid The Sun

Juice

Saunas

It’s a double edge sword when it comes to the sun. Not only do you expose yourself to the risk of getting cancer, your tanned skin will be all leathery and wrinkly adding years on you.

It’s no secret that detox juices – the beetroot, spinach and kale kind - infuse your skin with super-immunity bacteria blasting nutrients. A super juice brimming with vegetables (better than fruit based juices) will sort out any skin bugbears over time.

Beyond the recreational benefits of a sauna session, it improves circulation as you sweat buckets and rids all toxins. More oxygen circulates too, which leaves the skin looking healthy.

There’s always the best intention when it comes to sleep but we all could do with a bit more structure at bedtime. Make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of beauty rest – your skin’s elasticity will thank you for it.

Keep A Routine

Think Before Waxing

Establish a skincare routine that works for you and stick to it – don’t mix and match too many products, or at least, don’t switch all the time. And your regimen shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes.

Coconut Oil

Lukewarm Baths

While most of us have ditched the vegetable/ olive oils in favour for coconut oil, it’s worth transferring its use from food to skin. When solid, its creamy texture sinks into your skin to give you a hydrated glow.

Having a very hot bath is a common mistake but it’s one that dries out your skin and peels away too many layers – namely the epidermis which protects you from the environment.

It makes sense that a layer of skin is ripped off when you get your legs, upper lip and eyebrows done but it’s not something you consciously think about when you go for your appointment.

Two weeks beforehand, stop using topical vitamin A products like retinol – they make the skin extra sensitive and weak.

Drop Dairy

Packed with heart-healthy fats, proteins and vitamins, nuts have a good name in the food chain.

The selenium-rich walnut, brazil and cashew nut are great antioxidants for your skin.

Bedtime

Sorry if you’ve got cheese-lust but milk and cheese are contributing factors to acne. According to a 2008 medical journal, milk contains components related to the hormone testosterone that may stimulate oil glands in the skin.

Exfoliate Getting rid of dead skin cells is essential to replenish a healthy look. A Moroccan bath is vigorous enough to surface your baby skin once again and leave you soft as cotton.

Fitness Regularly putting your body through its paces with some cardio and toning increases the blood flow and nourishes the skin cells and keeps them vital.

And all that oxygen that the blood carries will flush any debris out of your system. To the treadmill it is!

Go Green Green tea provides a blast of hydration to your skin cells and works wonders for your complexion. It’s been said that tea also assists with anti-ageing so we’re not opposed to a steaming mug of tea!

High Quality Cleanser Your face has more oil producing glands than anywhere on your body. Add to that your makeup, sweat and dirt from the environment – yuck! When buying your cleanser, make sure “noncomedogenic” is written on the bottle.

Invest You have to be willing to fork out some pennies for your skin because using cheap products will send your skin into a frenzy if you’re not careful. As ever, invest in organically sound creams. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Mixed Nuts

Nutrition Eating omega 3 rich foods is chiefly the way to better skin. It’s down to you and how you feel when you eat food that’s not nutritionally sound and not only will your body show for it, your skin will manifest the results.

Open To New Things While it’s easy to get stuck into the formula that works for you, allow yourself to take some risks and go where the talk is. If something is causing some buzz, try it out – you’ve got nothing to lose.

Patience There are so many products in the market promising to reduce puffiness, smooth out wrinkles and restore colour. The problem is, we want results right here, right now, right? You have to let the treatment run its course. Give it at least 3-4 months for signs of results.

Quit Smoking The worse vice there ever was, the cancer stick.

Without sounding like a broken record, smoking adds years to you, makes your skin and teeth discolour and is not fashionable anymore.

Remove Makeup How many of us are guilty of not removing makeup properly if at all at night? Sleeping with a full face of makeup will create fine lines and acne. Not to mention, all the chemicals in your foundation will damage your skin and create clogged pores.

Uncover Your Bliss At the end of the day, when you’re happy, your skin will show for it. Whatever makes you tick and keeps a smile on your face, the proof will be in the pudding – or you know, in the glow of your skin.

Value Serums For softer, plumper skin, a serum is needed.

Sometimes they get overlooked, but they’ll give you heaps of radiance as they penetrate the skin with vitamin A and retinol.

Water The age-old remedy – we know it, but do we do it?

The skin needs moisture to maintain flexibility, so drink around 6-8 glasses of water a day and that slight grey tinge you’ve got will go away.

X Air conditioning OK. It is impossible to not use A-C in the summers here but in the cooler months, use a humidifier to purify the quality of air. Air conditioning really dries your skin and hair out so avoid being in direct contact with it.

Yes To Cucumbers Although it seems like a myth, cucumbers genuinely decrease puffy eyes and dark circles.

It’s all that silica and those antioxidants which do the trick. Next time you chop some for your salad, put some aside for your eyes.

Zen Keep stress in check because it takes its toll on every part of your body and of course your largest organ, skin. When stress levels are amped, the hormone cortisol, is in high production leading to oily, acne prone skin. And relax..

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BEAUTY Insight

A spritz of happiness Perfumer Jean-Christophe Hérault’s latest concoction, CHOPARD HAPPY SPIRIT AMIRA D’AMOUR, is a sparkling mix of floral intensity with honey. He tells us how he combined the ingredients to give that air of sophistication.

INSPIRATION

What was the initial brief you received from Coty?

A “night” and daring version of Happy Spirit.

Amira d’Amour is a celebration of everlasting love, an intense passion full of tenderness and desire. It is a fragrance for an Oriental princess – “Amira” means princess in Arabic.

What were the sources of inspiration to create this fragrance?

I was really inspired by the other Happy Spirit fragrances, with their distinctive sparkling top and sensual dry-down. I was also very inspired by the elegance that the brand Chopard evokes itself. I wanted to convey the oriental history of this limited edition, with its sparkling gold top that reveals the shining of love and the last rays of light that caress the golden dunes.

THE FRAGRANCE

How would you describe this fragrance in your own words? Can you give us 3 key words describing it?

Sophistication, Femininity and Delight.

How did you succeed to translate the values and the universe of Chopard into a fragrance?

I combined precious traditional ingredients like absolute jasmine with surprising ingredients like 56

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honey in order to create the timeless yet trendy elegance of the brand. In addition, the olfactive structure was built around a tonka bean accord, to offer sophistication. I also created an opulent floral heart to evoke the brand’s typical richness.

THE TARGET

What is the Happy Spirit Amira d’Amour looking for when she wears it?

A sophisticated and addictive trail.

DIVERSE

What are your personal sources of inspiration?

I have different sources of inspiration… I’m particularly interested in food and I often try out various combinations of spices when I cook, just as I do with my fragrances creations.

What are your favourite notes?

I like raw materials from different olfactive families. Woody notes of cypriol, fresh aldehydes and warm balsamic notes like Tonka Bean are good examples.

Do you ever wear your own creations? Why? Yes, sometimes I wear them for pleasure, during vacation, and sometimes I wear them to follow the lasting, the sillage, the impact and other technical details during a creation. www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Beauty Buzz

Keep Cool With Klein

Fun In The Sun

The bottle alone is enough to cool you down! Calvin Klein’s One Summer scent makes us think only of parties, youthful days at the beach, good music and company. Ah what we would do to turn back time to the carefree days of yesteryear. Good thing we have this scent to keep us going!

Muscle Magic

Got muscle aches? Before you hit the massage table, try these Wiccy Magic bars from Lush. The first time you use one of these, you’ll notice the sensation of peppermint and cinnamon spice oils which make the skin feel warm and tingly.

The red pieces on the top are aduki beans, which work into the muscles like firm fingertips for a relaxing massage.

Now we know that we’re spoiled for the amount of sun we get here but with that comes a disregard for the health implications, don’t you think? Try as best you can to avoid unprotected exposure with Nuxe’s SPF 50 sunscreen (with anti-ageing formulas) or if you want to avoid the sun completely, fake it with their silky self-tanning lotion.

No one needs to know you got that brown in your bathroom!

May just got better and warmer Mini perfumes, sun protection, face renewals and bathtime essentials. – tHE suN’S OUT, watch out, take care of your skin!

Good Hair, We Care

You can stop spritzing your expensive perfumes in your hair now because we’ve discovered a set of Byredo perfumes specifically for your mane.

The Stockholm based (need we say more?!) company has signature scents with a unique silicone and polymer formula to create a light, invisible veil designed to leave the hair nourished and luminous whilst divinely scented.

No more cigarette smelling hair on those nights out!

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Lovely Little Chloés

Do you practically live in the aisle or window seat? If you’re a real jet setter, these mini icons from Chloé in their adorable sizes are the perfect perfumes to have in your ziplock bag. Pick any one of the rose-based scents and you’ll smell of a Parisian garden. Ohlala! www.ohlala-magazine.com

& E V LO E

N I H S N SU TION COLLEC

www.ohlala-magazine.com

0180 142633 CLSP

NEW

!

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Beauty Buzz

The Smoky Spring Look It’s not the typical look to go for this time of year but there’s something to be said about going grey in the wake of spring.

There are ways of course to smoke up those lighter shades, so open your eyes and take note….

Step 1

We’ve got a solid spectrum of greys from Sephora and Guerlain for you to play around with. With a combo of matte and shimmer, you’re on your way to creating the perfect storm.

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Step 2

So now onto the lighter side of the tempest look. The spring-summer 2015 beauty looks really excelled in bringing a dusty pink storm, so try out Chanel ‘s and Sephora’s set .

Step 3

Of course the eyes are always going to be the first reference point but don’t neglect your nails - weather the storm (sorry, we love the wordplay with this one!) with OPI’s fierce shades of grey.

www.ohlala-magazine.com

The The Make-up Make-up solutions solutions

For For The The Per-fékt Per-fékt You! You! @perfekt_beauty_gcc @perfekt_beauty_gcc

www.ohlala-magazine.com

@perfekt_gcc @perfekt_gcc

Reemie Reemie

Website: Website: www.reemie.biz www.reemie.biz | Email: | Email: pr@reemie.biz pr@reemie.biz Exclusive Exclusive distributor distributor in in the the GCC: GCC: Reemie Reemie Line Line Cosmetics Cosmetics

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fact magazine fact magazine 9

9

Chanel: Glazed Loving

Estée laud er

Beauty Buzz

Nars: Naughty and Nude

BOBBi BROWN

YVES SAINT LAURENT

10 Best lip glosses Ask any woman what she always has in her purse and lip gloss is your sure-fire answer.

It’s less effort than lipstick and doesn’t take much to reapply after a meal – and it won’t spill over your lip line as precariously. If you can see your reflection in someone’s lip gloss, you know you’re on the right glassy path.

SEPHORA

Dior: LBD + Orange Lips.

Woah.

Gucci

GUCCI

Lancôme: Red Hot Fever 62

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“ Oh, the doors that willl open when you have the right key”

www.ohlala-magazine.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Chic Eats

Asian-inspired Specialities With the highly anticipated opening of the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, and its fine dining restaurants associated with Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Ohlala! was treated to a culinary journey at one of his venues, re Asian Cuisine.

I

t’s the breathtaking views of Bahrain’s city skyline punctuated by the sea that will first strike you about Wolfgang Puck’s exclusive destination. Renowned for his hospitality and creative genius, re Asian Cuisine is an embodiment of this legendary chef ’s passion for Far Eastern culinary delights.

Be awed by the dazzling lights and their colourful reflections cast across the water, as you take in one of the island’s most spectacular views, while enjoying innovative, speciality cuisine.

A warm and inviting ambience awaits you with the elegant, art deco-inspired interiors and moodlit dining areas. Choose to sit at tables by the expansive windows or in banquette-style seating and booths for a more intimate dining experience.

The welcoming vibe of this chic venue will make you feel like you’re dining among a roomful of great friends.

You’ll be treated to impeccable service, with nonintrusive attention to detail by Wolfgang’s team.

Extensive knowledge and professionalism is fused with a friendly, lighthearted manner, making for the perfect hosts to guide you through your culinary journey.

An extensive menu of mouth-watering delights will get your taste buds dancing in excited anticipation of what’s to come. Choose from the finest of First Flavours such as the Spicy Tuna Tartare in Sesame Miso Cones, with Chili Aioli and shaved Bonito, or Lobster & Shrimp Spring Rolls, with Honey & tenspice Dipping Sauce. There’s a delicious offering of Dumplings and Dim Sum, including Steamed Bao Buns of Wagyu Beef Short Ribs fused with Gochujang Aioli, Sweet Bean Sauce and Pickled Cucumber.

Later decide from a wide range of Fish & Shellfish, Meat & Poultry, Vegetables, Rice and Noodles to satiate your appetite. The menu can be found online at www.fourseasons.com/bahrain An exclusive Tasting Menu is also on offer – the 66

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“Eating is one of the basic necessities for human survival and should never be taken for granted. Each and every bite should be meticulously examined, indulged and enjoyed to truly appreciate the gift of nourishment.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

Chic Eats

chef will gladly prepare a multi-course selection of the finest dishes to suit your tastes – an exciting way to enjoy an excellent meal among friends.

The Four Seasons believes that “eating is one of the basic necessities for human survival and should never be taken for granted. Each and every bite should be meticulously examined, indulged and enjoyed to truly appreciate the gift of nourishment.”

Which is why they have entrusted the most accomplished executive chef for re Asian Cuisine, Brian Becher. He describes the best part of his job as being able to connect with his guests through his creations. “They are taking the food that I made with my hands and putting it into their bodies to nourish themselves. When you really think about it, there are very few connections as intimate as that.” re Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck offers a chic, intimate dining experience, one that you’ll want to repeat time and time again. But don’t just take our word for it, reserve yourself a table in your favourite style and discover it for yourselves…

re Asian Cuisine | Wolfgang Puck Cuisine Modern Asian Location 50th floor Dress Code Smart casual Dining Monday to Saturday, 7pm to midnight Reservations Highly recommended

www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Chic Eats

Become a Master Chef Fancy creating La Vinoteca’s fine-dining quality in the comfort of your own home? Experiment with this exquisite recipe by Barcelonian Chef Joan, and wow your guests in true Ohlala! style.

“A recipe has no soul. You, as the cook, must bring soul to the recipe.” ~ Thomas Keller

Quail In A Light Brine With Escalivada Roll & Root Chips Ingredients For the quail in brine 12 quail legs 500ml olive oil 200ml sherry vinegar 1 whole garlic 300g carrots 300g onion 20g fresh ginger 3 bay leaves Peel of one lemon10g whole black peppercorns 3 cloves For the escalivada roll 4 red peppers 2 aubergines 1 onion 3 courgettes Aluminium foil 9g jellan (seaweed gelatin) 4g of agar-agar 1.5l water For the root chips 100g purple potato 100g sweet potato 100g parsnip Sunflower oil Sea salt 68

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Method For the escalivada roll

For the quail

• Preheat oven to 180C/350F • Cover the onion and the courgettes with aluminium foil

and roast in the oven until soft.

• Peel the onion and reserve for later use.

• Roast the peppers in the oven until completely black and soft. When cooled, peel, de-seed and reserve for later use.

• Repeat the above with the aubergine.

• Chop everything, except the courgettes, season with olive oil and salt and refrigerate for at least two hours.

• Blend the courgettes with 1.5 litres of water and then strain well. Add the jellan and the agar-agar and then mix.

• Heat the mixture to 80C/176F, place in a flat tray and leave it to cool down until it is hard enough to roll.

• Place the chopped vegetables in the middle of some cling film and roll. Reserve for later.

• Carefully clean the quail legs.

• Put the rest of the ingredients, except for the quail,

together in a pot and simmer for half an hour.

• Reduce the heat and add the quail legs. Slow poach the quail legs inside the mixture until they become soft.

• Once soft, strain the quail legs and the brine separately. Reserve for later.

For the root chips

• Heat the sunflower oil to 160C; slice the roots really

thin and deep fry until crispy. Reserve for later.

Plating and presentation:

• Cut the roll into slices, place on a plate, alternating

between quail legs and roll slices. Season with brine and sea salt, finish with the root chips. Enjoy your meal. www.ohlala-magazine.com

Join us for a Sunday Night Buffet at Al Waha Restaurant at the Gulf Hotel,

ON A VOYAGE TO DISCOVER

THE MEDITERRANEAN BASIN.

Sample an array of classic dishes originating from historic coastline from Morocco to Spain... from Tajine to Paella.

Every Sunday from 7pm to 10.30pm For information and reservations, Please call +973 1771 3000 l Fax: +973 1771 3040 Emal: info@gulfhotelbahrain.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com The Gulf Hotel

Bahrain

TheGulfHotelBahrain

@thegulfhotelbh

OHLALA! 69 www.gulfhotelbahrain.com

Virginia Woolf once said, ‘One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.’

We couldn’t agree more...

For the Love of...

Food 70

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Chic Eats Decadent Offerings

A French Affair

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Trader Vic’s & Mai Tai Lounge

Majestic views as you dine...

Simply decadent...

A welcome addition to Bahrain’s stellar gastronomic scene, the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay offers an elaborate Friday Brunch where you can savour dishes from five unique food stations serving Arabic, Western, Indian and Asian ( Japanese and Chinese) delicacies. Choose from traditional Arabic items like shawarma, or kibbeh and Asian delights like sushi, dim sum, housemade pastas and farmers’ market-inspired salads, or the savoury slowcooked short ribs and Peking duck. For dessert, indulge in delicious treats all freshly made right in their very own pastry kitchen.

The Friday Brunch is available from 12.30pm to 3pm at Bahrain Bay Kitchen restaurant and terrace has indoor and outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy the best view of the Manama skyline. Cost is BD25++ and BD32 ++ (with spirits).

From the simplest ingredient to the most indulgent, Chef Yann Bernard Lejard will treat guests to a very French affair throughout May at Trader Vic’s. The special French menu will come with live French music every evening from 8pm at Trader Vic’s Bar from May 3 to 9.

Don’t miss out on the ongoing Ladies’ Night Promotion which is on every Tuesday from 6pm to 10pm. The ever-popular Wahine Tuesdays at Mai-Tai Lounge allows you to make time for your girlfriends and enjoy a relaxed catch-up in the beautiful surroundings of the lagoon pagoda.

Ladies enjoy free entry, drinks and a selection of complimentary Trader Vic’s Tid-Bits.

Exquisite Creations

Homely Treats

The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa

Cafe Amsterdam

RESERVATIONS:1758 6555

RESERVATIONS: 1711 5000

A host of venues that delight...

A chic afternoon ritual...

Exquisite offers abound at Primavera’s three-course business set lunch prepared by two Michelin-starred Chef Oliver Glowig for BD10++ from Sunday to Thursday, noon to 3pm. Thai Lounge has Sushi Wednesdays with Sushi Chef Sonny showcasing his creations from 6pm to 11pm for BD17net. Have a relaxing weekend with The Ritz-Carlton Friday Brunch, where for BD29net you can tuck into a delicious buffet of international specialties and unlimited bubbly, house beverages and soft drinks. It’s on every Friday, 12.30pm to 4.30pm at La Med Restaurant. There’s also a Saturday Family Lunch Buffet, also at La Med, from noon to 3pm for BD15++. Over at Plums, Chef Yann Bernard Lejard presents his signature ‘Black and White’ burger creations every Wednesday from 7pm. Black Burger (Wagyu beef ) is BD25++ whilst White Burger (chicken) is BD22++.

If you’re looking to relish a homely afternoon tea, this modern European restaurant’s High Tea experience offers a selection of premium Jing Tea – enjoyed by connoisseurs all over the globe and served in over 50 Michelinstarred restaurants worldwide. The ‘Cream Tea’ option (BD7.5) comes with homemade scones and clotted cream, sandwiches and cakes. For BD1.2, try sandwiches like rare roast beef, poached chicken, avocado and pesto and smoked salmon. Waffles, tarts and other delicacies are in abundance. Lighter options are on offer too. Whether you decide to sit by the brick decorated walls lined with tulips and bicycles, in the open conservatory, or in the outdoor garden, Cafe Amsterdam instantly transports you to a delightful and refreshing afternoon tea experience.

Innovative Specialities

A Fantastic Setting

Bushido Lounge & Restaurant

Royal Golf Club

RESERVATIONS: 1700 7404

RESERVATIONS: 1758 6499

New menu and healthy options...

Famed for their delicate flavour and tender texture compared to green asparagus, the White Asparagus takes centrestage with Bushido’s exquisite preparations available throughout May. Come weekends, the Friday Brunch is on from 12noon to 3pm for BD18.5++ (BD24.5++ with spirits) – with live-cooking stations, live music and children’s activities. If you’re looking for a healthy lunch option, the Bento Box for just BD9 net is available daily. The Bento Box packages features a selection of sashimi/sushi, vegetables, grilled meat and rice served complete with salad, miso soup, mixed fruits and green tea. Tried the Smart Menu yet? Available at lunchtime, Saturdays to Thursdays for BD10 net, it’s a three-course menu served within 30 minutes flat! Perfect if you need to dash straight to your meetings or head back to the office.

RESERVATIONS:1758 3555 www.ohlala-magazine.com

Poolside event and weekly specials...

Presenting the World Beverage Tour, Royal Golf Club is changing things up a bit by hosting a poolside event on May 14. Connoisseurs of great food and wonderful drinks can delight in a mouthwatering barbecue accompanied by beverage stations from around the world including hop drinks from Belgium and Japan, grape beverages from France and Chile as well as other tempting drinks from South Africa, Mexico, England and more. DJ Rob will be spinning his unique blend of upbeat soul and jazz. The event is open to those 18 years and over. Tickets for Club members are BD18 net and for non-members BD22 net. Limited places are available and will be sold on a first come, first served basis. Be sure to check out their weekly dining promotions too.

RESERVATIONS: 1775 0777

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Chic Eats Dining Pleasures

Exclusive dining offers...

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

Try Ruka’s Sushi Lunch Unlimited, on daily, 12.30pm to 3.30pm for just BD12++ inclusive of tea, soup or salad. Ruka’s ‘Late Night Party’ is every Thursday, 11pm to 2am with special cocktails and live DJ entertainment.

Ladies get one free drink! The new daily promotion ‘One on Me, One on You’ from 3.30pm to 6.30pm lets you buy one drink and get one free.

Lemon Tree’s Friday Family Brunch is on from 12pm to 4pm, for BD18++ (half price for kids). Every Thursday, indulge in the Seafood Night for just BD14++. On weekdays, 12.30pm to 3.30pm, an Executive Lunch Buffet costs just BD9net. Over at Rasoi, it’s Spice Up Weekend with Jassan E Kebab. For BD15++ enjoy fresh kebab, oven-cooked biryani and free flow of beverages every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 12.30pm to 3pm.

RESERVATIONS: 1711 1999

A Taste of France

Season’s delights and more...

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Get a taste of France at Sofitel with ‘Seasons of France – Spring’. Saraya restaurant lets you enjoy a unique and flavourful buffet complete with French cuisine and delicacies themed for the season every Thursday from 7pm to 10.30pm at BD18net net with water and soft drinks and BD22net with selected house beverages. Check out the Serata Italian or ‘Italian Night’ every Monday from 7pm to 10.30pm where Saraya and Fiamma restaurants offer the ultimate in Italian cuisine for BD18net with two selected house beverages. The popular Friday Brunch at Saraya from 12.30pm to 4pm at BD32 net feature selections from several live cooking stations; whilst the Saturday Arabic Brunch is just BD18net inclusive of soft beverages or BD22 net with selected house beverages, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

RESERVATIONS: 1763 6363

A Gastronomic Adventure

New Monthly Promotions

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

Special culinary festivals...

Enjoy world-class cuisine at Rasoi by Vineet and win an exclusive cookbook signed by the Michelin-starred Chef Vineet himself. Promotion is valid throughout May. At La Pergola, Chef Enrico presents ‘Aceto Balsamico’ where he combines style and taste using traditional aged Italian vinegar with modern recipes. From May 14 to June 12, Fusions presents ‘Asado Argentinian BBQ’, where Chef Rohit takes you to a culinary adventure featuring meat selections and seafood such as white salmon, Chilean sea bass as well as vegetarian options. Every Sunday night, from 7pm to 10.30pm, Al Waha presents ‘Coast to Coast’ – a voyage to the Mediterranean region featuring classic dishes such as tajine, paellas and more. Margarita Mexicana presents ‘Yoliztli Widen De La Laguna-Mexico’, a Mexican Food and Cultural Festival with the Mexican Ballet happening on May 28 to June 9.

RESERVATIONS: 1771 3000 72

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Indulgent menu options...

Head to Soie restaurant for the month-long Sukiyaki and Teriyaki Promotion. Menu choices start from just BD5.2++. At An Nada Lounge and Espressamente Illy Café, meat lovers will enjoy the Steak Specialty Promotion.

Selections start from just BD4.9++. It’s Ladies’ Night at An Nada Lounge from 8pm to 1am every Monday (unlimited selected beverages) and Thursday (three free drinks). Try Golestan’s Business Lunch for just BD12net or the Daily Specialty Lunch at Espressamente Illy Café from 7am to 11pm and menu options change daily with prices starting from just BD4.2++. The Café’s High Tea is offered daily from 7am to 11pm. Enjoy Classic High Tea for BD3.2++ per person (minimum of 2) or the Sunrise Delight for BD3.8++ per person (minimum of 4). It’s located at the main lobby floor and accessible from MODA Mall.

RESERVATIONS: 1753 3533

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A Sparkling Affair Evoking the senses...

Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Add a little sparkle to your weekend at Baharat’s Fizzy Fare every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm. The Sparkling Brunch lets you dine on an innovative global buffet with live cooking stations and an ever-changing menu of sophisticated classics and modern dishes. Your brunch experience is made even more inspired with the soothing sounds of the new duo Johanna Roldan Garces and Adrian Mera Olarte from Colombia performing your favourites. Fizzy brunch costs BD30 net, whilst soft brunch is BD20 net and kids six to 12 are half price, kids below six free. Oh and here’s a special treat for the ladies. Every Thursday and Friday, from 7.30pm to 11pm, get 50 per cent off your bill when ladies dine with ladies! Price is dependent on selection.

RESERVATIONS: 1717 1441

Mediterranean Dreams A treat for mums this month...

Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge The island’s first truly authentic Mediterranean restaurant, this gem of a place has just opened and it definitely wows at every turn. With indoor and outdoor seating areas, it draws inspiration from the region, and you’ll find iconic scenes from the Mediterranean lifestyle – and their menu selections reflect those from the mountains and shores of Lebanon, the chic beaches of France, the lively spirit of Spain, the dolce vita in Italy and the healthy food choices of Greece. This month, the restaurant takes an ode to the most precious woman in your life – by celebrating mothers all-around. At Nicole’s Friday Brunch (on from 12.30pm to 4pm), mums get 50 percent off the rate for only BD9.5 which comes with softdrinks or BD12.5 with selected beverages.

RESERVATIONS: 1728 0700

Fruits of the Sea

Merry Mondays & More

The Westin Bahrain City Centre

Movenpick Hotel Bahrain

Seafood and more...

Tuck into some of the freshest fruits of the sea and enjoy the best of local seafood and fish, supplemented by international delicacies flown in on the day. Saveur presents CLAWS – on every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm for BD20 net inclusive of soft drink and water, BD25net inclusive of selected beverages; kids below six dine for free and kids six to 12 years are half price.

Try your hand at Saveur’s Pizza Fridays. Enjoy your favourite rustic, hand tossed pizzas baked in a real stone oven. Kids below 12 years can make their own pizza for free! Pizza Fridays is on every Friday, 12.30 to 11pm for BD5.5++ including one pizza and a soft drink or tea/coffee.

Kids below 12 years dine for free. Selected house beverages are available at BD3.750++ per glass.

RESERVATIONS: 1717 1441 www.ohlala-magazine.com

New culinary promotions...

Silk’s is hosting Merry Mondays Seafood Night, from 7pm to 11pm.

For BD22 net and BD27 net including unlimited selected beverages and softdrinks, savour seafood delicacies and the freshest catch of the day prepared just the way you like it. Make Thursday nights the perfect outing for you and your friends. For BD26.6, the Thursday Night Out from 7pm to 11pm at Silk’s will be an evening of indulgence featuring unlimited exotic cocktails, beverages and gourmet food cooked to perfection, your way. Take advantage of the ‘Make it Ten’ offer. Book a table for ten to get 15 percent off your bill. The illusionist Javier Saba will be performing to make your evening even more enjoyable. Silk’s popular Friday Brunch invites you to savour mouthwatering delicacies from 12.30pm to 4pm for just BD31net per person.

RESERVATIONS: 1746 0017

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The Lexus NX 200t Recently we got our hands on the latest offering and the first ever turbocharged model from premium Japanese brand Lexus, the NX 200t compact crossover SUV, in an exclusive test drive event in Dubai.

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Diva Drives

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verything seems to be going the way of the turbo these days – the Porsche Cayenne GTS, the BMW M5, and even now the Ferrari California T and the new 488GTB. So it’s no surprise that Lexus has followed suit – the only surprise is that they were not one of the first, rather than one of the last, considering the motoring group’s propensity towards efficiency.

And to us it seems that the NX 200t is the perfect model to launch it all with, given that it is the model most suited to practical family motoring. The engine is efficient and easy on the fuel, and yet the turbo provides enough grunt to live up to Lexus’s premium brand identity, with 235hp and 350Nm or torque from the 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

They present the NX as the most ‘sporty’ of the Lexus SUV range, although this could be translated as ‘compact’. However, despite being considerably more compact than the LX and GX models, and slightly smaller than the RX, the NX is by no means cramped. Comfortable and spacious inside, there is plenty of leg and headroom both front and back, and easily enough space for five adults to travel comfortably.

Being a compact SUV though, the NX does not feature a third row or any fold-down extra seats in the back, and the sporty sloping rooflines mean than boot space isn’t huge, even for a large car. You’d find more space in you average station wagon, although the rear seats do have power folding which makes them easy to fold flat if you need the extra cargo space.

Looks-wise, the NX’s styling is undoubtedly bold, and is certain to appeal to those who like their vehicles to stand out, which we most certainly do. Heaven forbid we’re ever caught driving anything boring darling! With aggressive lines and extreme angles everywhere you look, the NX does exude an aura of performance, which is never a bad thing in our book.

Ride quality and interior comfort are, as you’d expect from a Lexus, excellent. The NX glides along the road smoothly, and the interior is serene and quiet. Handling and agility are also good thanks to the Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, which provides good traction and cornering stability. www.ohlala-magazine.com

A favourite aspect of the NX for us was the excellent infotainment system. With attractive graphics, an intuitive interface and some really cool gadgetry, it really stood out for us. For example, the Qi Wireless Charging Tray will charge any compatible phone or tablet just by placing it in the tray!

There’s also a colour HUD projected on the windscreen, and the Lexus Remote Touch Interface, a touchpad for easy control of the infotainment.

As an additional safety measure, Lexus have gone to great pains to ensure that all the functions you could possible want while driving can be adjusted without lowering your eyes further than the middle of the steering wheel. This means that they’ve come up with a slightly fiddly system to include all the functions on the steering wheel, but it only takes a short while to familiarise yourself with it.

Overall, we found the Lexus NX 200t to everything you’d expect and more from a premium CUV. With the expected luxury and some added industry-first innovations, it certainly impresses. While an excellent and luxurious car for a smaller family of up to four, any family larger than that will require a larger vehicle.

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diva Drives

Petrolhead Pretty

Our resident Diva Driver, Lisa Speed, is getting all racy this month…

Some of you may remember a few months back when I had a go in the rather delicious Lexus RC-F Coupe, with its beefy V8?

I rather enjoyed it, so you can imagine my excitement when this landed in my inbox, the awesome looking Lexus RC-F GT3 factory racer!

Based on the RC F sports coupe, the RC F GT3 is wider, lower, and has been lightened to 1,250kg. Equipped with a modified version of the RC F’s V8 engine, maximum output will exceed 540 horsepower. Alas, unlike the Porsche GT3, this is purely a track machine, so don’t expect to see it at the traffic lights any time soon…

And moving from motor sports to McLaren Sports, the British car manufacturer has announced not one, but TWO new models in the last month, both of which are in its all-new Sports Series.

And if they look the same, that’s because… well, they pretty much are! Launched first was the McLaren 570S, with its 570PS (562bhp) twin-turbo V8 that’s capable of 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds, and next up was the McLaren 540C, with the same V8 putting out slightly less power, 540PS (533bhp) and a 0-100km/h time of 3.5 seconds.

Aside from other subtle differences between the two, such as aero design and wheel options, but they’ll be largely similar – think Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S, because those are EXACTLY the two cars that these two McLarens have in their sights!

The McLaren Sports series is the third model grouping from the company, and joins the Super Series for variants of the 650S, and the Ultimate Series for the mighty P1.

And in loosely related, but equally exciting news, should you decide that driving a McLaren and then giving it back is preferable to actually owning one, this should tickle your fancy: The Waldorf Astoria have launched their global supercar experience programme, featuring the McLaren 12C, Porsche 911 GT3, Ferrari 458 Italia, and the Lamborghini Huracan and Gallardo, no less!

They’ve bundled it all up into a series of packages that can include dinner, a night’s stay and even a round of golf, both in their Dubai Palm Jumeirah and Ras Al Khaimah Resorts.

The UAE experiences are taking place throughout November, but you can bet they’re going to get booked up pretty quickly, so contact them now if you want in! An exclusive Lisa Speed tip: The Ras Al Khaimah one will have less traffic, and will most likely include the spectacular Jebel Jais mountain drive!

And if you have a birthday or anniversary sometime around then, perhaps a subtle hint, like leaving the magazine open at this page next to your other half ’s favourite chair. If they don’t get the hint, perhaps try cutting this page out and stapling it to their favourite jacket, or limb…

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Power Tools

Hard work, tenacity and hands-on skills are as important to success in the jewellery business as talent and creativity. These qualities are aplenty for the duo behind The Generous Light Company, Karima Sharabi and Noora Al Zain.

Ohlala’s Karina Lazarraga finds out why their creations are more than just jewellery, but tools of empowerment as well.

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“We know it is not just going to be about the products but about a way of life and a new way of thinking.”

Tell us your design style – what makes your collections unique?

Noora Al Zain. Our gift items are unique because each design has a deep meaning and you are not just buying a product but a well thought-out work of art. Each piece is supposed to make you think and should also hold a sense of significance to the wearer.

Karima Sharabi. Our collections provide a deeper meaning and a sense of spirituality. We believe that each item and symbol we have created, if worn with intent, will act as a kind of protective emblem or totem of energy, which will bring a feeling of positivity to the wearer.

The symbols are based around Arabic writing combined with shapes and symbols from other cultures and spiritual ideologies, which makes the symbols universal and inclusive.

Where did the inspiration for the company come from?

NAZ. It started as Karima and I started working together in making her tattoo designs into jewellery for Al Zain. Al Zain often collaborate with different designers, but because Karima and I have so much in common we didn’t want to stop with one collection. I have a lot of experience working with my family at Al Zain and I have learned a lot about the possibilities and opportunities in business and believe in the ease with which a business can grow if there is a cohesive and supportive partnership.

KS. I design tattoos with Arabic words formed into shapes that are often very symbolic and spiritual. My style is not defined as calligraphy because it doesn’t follow traditional calligraphic rules so I call it ‘Mystical Arabic Writing’. Noora saw my work and commissioned a design from me and then said “it would make great jewellery.”

I believe there are no coincidences in life and our meeting and the development of our company unfolded so perfectly and naturally, as if it was all meant to be. www.ohlala-magazine.com

What are your core values as a company?

NAZ. We want our company to represent the core values of unity, peace, tolerance and respect for the environment and for the community, and we hope that will always shine through The Generous Light Co. KS. The idea of interconnectedness and inclusion is an integral part of our business. It is also important to give back to the people around you so as to improve life in the community as a whole.

How does your partnership work?

NAZ. My background in branding, business and manufacturing really helped us in setting up the company plus we had massive support from Al Zain during the process. I really believe that to accomplish anything in life, you have to be dedicated, hardworking and creative in developing your ideas.

KS. Although both Noora and I are very creative, I feel that my strength is definitely in the artistic and philosophical side of the business. I also studied Political Science and my extensive knowledge of different societies, religions and philosophies has inspired us to set a mission to find the beauty in and connect with seemingly diverse beliefs and cultures.

What does the future hold for your business?

NAZ. I hope that the future allows for us to interact with different people from all around the world and for the company to represent humanity on a global level. We know it is not just going to be about the products but about a way of life and a new way of thinking.

KS. So many artists we know here in Bahrain have the same values and ideals as us and we know that working with some of them will show the world what gifts this island has to offer.

The duo’s collections are available at Mimosa Boutique in A’ali Shopping Complex and at www.thegenerouslightco.com. You can also watch a beautiful film on YouTube, simply search for The Generous Light Company.

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Profiles of

Faith

There is a belief that art is universal – a belief, more often than not, perpetuated by Bahrain’s emerging artists.

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WORDS BY KARINA LAZARRAGA

hat belief is happening on a local level. Today, thanks to Manama’s grassroots arts movement and community-building efforts, these artists have made the Kingdom’s creative terrain all the more interesting. There is no question that in the last few years, a new sense of identity has electrified Bahrain’s art scene.

The exhibition, ‘Vantage’, now on show at Al Riwaq Art Space, is a collective display of the works of seven female artists namely, Ghada Khunji, Hala Yateem, Mariam Al Arab, Stephanie Ravel, Somaya Abdulghani, Tamara Al Pachachi and Waheeda Malullah through various media.

‘Vantage’ is the result of their journey – a personal and collective reflection on faith. The artworks – translate an intimate and universal perspective which aim to encourage a spiritual conversation with the audience.

The works displayed show the various relationships and stages of each artist’s quest for her identity, but which could also be representative of Muslim women universally. Famed Bahrainbased artist Camille Zakharia gave his artistic guidance throughout the creative process of the exhibition; whilst renowned artist Bayan Kanoo offered her full support by opening the doors of Al Riwaq Art Space to the group.

Stephanie Ravel, the creator of the concept, felt it was a “humbling and rich experience” to work with her fellow artists – as they pushed each other’s creative abilities. The result reflects eight months of their hard work. “I believe that art is the best way to convey messages because what it does at first is to convey a feeling to the audience. The purpose is not to impose a message but to ask a question,” she adds. Now a Muslim herself, Stephanie came up with ‘i-Islam’, a body of work which “questions the responsibility of Muslims when they talk about Islam to a convert and what you first need to know about the religion.”

The group realised that each of them were seeking different

answers through religion; that they were at a different stage in their own religious journey.

One of the participating artists, Mariam Al Arab had this to say: “Being born a Muslim, you take everything you do for granted. Since we were taught everything from a very young age, the questioning and realisation only come at a later stage.

This exhibition was a great experience for me – to question myself, to search within and to question my Islamic community.”

Inspired by the Holy Qur’an, Somaya Abdulghani strives to introduce Islam’s theological and philosophical beauty to her audience, by developing delicate, rhythmic and organic patterns in her art – an attempt to mirror nature’s simplicity. For her, “the enlightening nature of the religion acts as a strong propellant in her art and practice. I believe in shared values present across various religions, such as morality and purity.”

Hala Yateem on the other hand, hopes that her work, “triggers something within the viewer. The piece I created was in reaction to ISIS and their labeling of terrorism as ‘jihad’. I wanted to learn more about what ‘jihad’ is. The modern world has made us become very superficial. We don’t have the time to sit and think and take things most of the time at face value.”

For Tamara AlPachachi, “The main intention [of my piece for the exhibition] is a rise in positive energy and the return to habits of faith and I really hope that this is achieved through my art. If someone who sees the exhibit and walks away wanting to give out positive intentions, then I would already be successful,” she muses.

If art is in essence a conversation, these artists have – through ‘Vantage’ – definitely created an opportunity for a new way of talking. It sounds completely different than anywhere else. It sounds very much like the future.

“If art is in essence a conversation, these artists have definitely created an opportunity for a new way of talking.”

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The exhibition is on at Al Riwaq Art Space until May 12 and will include weekly talks with the artists about their artwork and personal experiences. www.ohlala-magazine.com

‘Prayer’ by Tamara Al Pachachi

‘i-Islam’ by Stephanie Ravel

‘Jihad’ by Hala Yateem

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‘Eqraa’ by Sumaya Abdulghani

‘Echo’ by Mariam Al Arab

‘Personal Status’

by Waheeda Mallulah

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‘Self Portraits’ by Ghada Kunji

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The Road Warrior

New to the property, Thomas Flindt, general manager for Sheraton Bahrain Hotel talks to Ohlala! about how he plans to steer one of Bahrain’s most iconic landmarks.

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Starwood Hotels & Resorts veteran, Thomas is a Danish national and started his career with the international hotel group in 1982 as Chef de Partie at the Plaza a Sheraton Hotel, then as sous chef at the same property before becoming the executive sous chef at Sheraton Hotel Oslo Fjord. He then moved on to serve as director of food & beverage at Sheraton Copenhagen, which led to more opportunities for him at Starwood properties in China, Thailand, Egypt and Africa. Thomas obtained a culinary degree from Copenhagen Hotel & Restaurant School and began his hospitality journey in 1979 as a chef apprentice in Copenhagen.

Prior to his current stint at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, he was the general manager at Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun in Lebanon for over six years.

How did you get started in the hospitality industry?

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most of all, the joy of meeting people. Being in this industry, no day is ever the same. You get to experience different cultures and be in different places. Being in a different place at any point in time – you will have to live with and enjoy what it has to offer.

“I believe that truly looking after guests is what makes the difference for a hotel.”

What is your approach to leading this property?

TF. This hotel is a landmark and my team and I aim to keep its name as one of the forerunners in Bahrain’s hospitality industry.

By maintaining high levels of quality and service, we also strive to keep the focus on our guests’ satisfaction. I believe that truly looking after guests is what makes the difference for a hotel.

Who is the Sheraton guest today?

TF. The Sheraton guest is a ‘road warrior’.

It’s someone who travels for business, but is also someone who travels with family when he has time. Loyalty is a big factor for them too – that’s why we strengthened our loyalty program – the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) – which offers a host of benefits for members. Sheraton is Starwood’s biggest brand and has one of the largest footprints in the Middle East.

How do you offer technology without losing the human touch for guests?

TF. Technology definitely makes life a lot easier for all of us – which is why we make full use of it to support all of our initiatives. With our SPG app for instance, your mobile phone becomes your hotel key. It keeps us in touch with our guests and vice versa. It’s all about convenience at your fingertips.

Any hobbies or interests outside of work?

TF. I love gardening and I also like golf. It takes my mind off things temporarily. www.ohlala-magazine.com

The Happiest Place on Earth In 2013 Copenhagen was voted as the number one city in Monocle’s annual Quality of Life Survey – it took the crown the following year too. Georgie Bradley goes for a long weekend of anthropological sightings in Denmark’s capital to discover what it is that makes life so good.

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Travel Escapes The Danes are obnoxiously good looking. Chiselled cheek bones, dishevelled hair, piercing blue eyes and their ability to speak English as if it were their native tongue make them that much more jaw-dropping. The Danes have been a hot topic since the advent of TV drama Borgen and for various other unprecedented political, social and economic movements. The 5 million petite country has a name for making big waves in all matters influential and progressive.

So to find out what all the fuss is about and experience the highly slick and functional Danish design as it were, I took a few days out (because let’s face it Scandinavia makes you haemorrhage money) and went to the capital, Copenhagen to see the Little Mermaid and attempt to get a reservation at the world’s best restaurant, Noma (failed).

In fact, I’m inspired to go to Copenhagen because of a book I’ve recently read, The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the secrets of the world’s happiest country by Helen Russell – a mentor I had when interning at Marie Claire UK. Although she’s based in Jutland or Sticksville-on-sea as she’s renamed it, there is a pervading spirit of happiness which she says branches out across the country.

The train ride from the airport to the central station in itself was a happy experience –Two things that are highly necessary in 2015: a charged phone (check, each seat has a USB port) and WIFI (check check, twice for amazing speed). So far so Danish, i.e. everything works.

Just as I’m picturing myself living in Copenhagen with my Scandi-issue floor boards, my oblong wall clock and a decked out kitchen consisting of top rate chef knives the Danish winter breath stabs my cheeks like said knives. It’s wet, unreasonably cold and I have to walk 15 minutes from the station to get to my hotel, happiness is in detention for now.

But the moment my sodden self has crossed the hotel’s threshold, it’s as if the cold doesn’t exist anymore. Now this is not just due to the fact that I am inside and therefore not outside, but it’s got something to do with Hygge (a guttural ‘hooga’ sound) that the Danes go by each and every winter. Hygge is a concept relating to cosiness. Homes, shops, restaurants, banks and any indoor set up aims to achieve hygge by allowing you to thaw and feel warm and fuzzy. The Danes spend a lot of time indoors, so this is overtly essential. My hotel has hit all the hygge points by cocooning me in a ball of pillowy comfort and T-shirt wearing warmth. As litmus tests go, this is a strong indication of happiness.

Continuing my happiness levels I brave the elements again and do the typicals: Nyhavn Harbour where I stopped for a sumptuous smorgasbord of meats and pickles and rye bread and then trail around industrial plants along the harbour. As I’m so fascinated by this survey-topping city, I walk everywhere, avoiding the metro and buses (despite their efficiency) to really get a sense of the place. Side note: Take the train to Helsingør to play at the Kronborg castle – the skyhigh ceilings practically invite you to use your lungs to effect!

And, on the way back stop off at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. You’ll want to live there and buy everything.

I wanted to get more of a one-on-one with the Danes themselves to put their ‘direct’ and ‘straightforward’ nature, as told by former visitors, to the test. I go to 42Raw – a vegan café (a preference of late) and find everything in, well, Danish. Of course the staff is able to very comfortably explain what is on the menu 84

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with colloquialisms like “if you’re peckish for..” and “another alltime favourite is…” which makes me salivate more with envy that they can be so fluid with languages. I wouldn’t say they were abrupt in their talk but they gave off a vibe of “isn’t it obvious?!” when explaining what each item was. The café is indeed hygge too with a blast of warm air greeting you as you step in and despite the general ‘fire-place’ aura felt throughout, they still had a basket of throws to go around for some extra hygge. And being as inviting as it is, it’s packed with people – Danes, not tourists, it’s 2pm, on a weekday.

I’ve read that the Danes don’t let work take over; togetherness outside of the workplace is held in higher regard. On average Danes work 34 hours a week. Can I move here, please?

Now every city has a fashionable, up-and-coming quarter boasting unique finds, pop-up shops and independent start-ups.

I track down Nørrebro, one of the 10 official districts of walkable Copenhagen. I’m observing the Danes as if I’m ready to randomly pounce on them should someone of pique my interest – it all seems so convivial – there’s an evident growing migrant population but no polarisation as far as I can see (I have my rose tinted glasses on and they’re not coming off for now) because for every ‘Danish’ shop there are, in this district at least, Muslim and Jewish establishments too.

I approach a public park, children are scuttling around, fathers (mothers in the minority) chat with other parents but I don’t see any unattended baby pram. I feel like this has become a myth expounded by the media for commotion. Away from the cluster of parents in another section of this heptagonal (of course) shaped park, is a set of unmotorised gym equipment. I can’t quite work out what they are but my intuition kicks in and I’m working out my hamstrings by the feel of things. I know the Danes have got their social and health services in surplus but this is too cool – a nice, subtle way of encouraging everyone to remain on top of their ticker.

As I go deeper into the district, I find myself losing sensation in each finger. I’ve never been able to grow a pair when it comes to the cold and the fact that “this weather we’re having is really quite pleasant” chirped by the hotel staff earlier, isn’t encouraging. There really is little fault with Copenhagen. It’s clean, easy to navigate, filled with Michelin starred restaurants, alternative culture and genuinely happy people. And if you didn’t have to hide in an igloo of padded winter wear for what would seem like an eternity each year, I’d move here in a heartbeat.

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5 Things The Danes Do Differently There’s a reason everyone has a fascination over the region; and being at the geographic epicentre, Denmark’s always under the microscope.

Everything seems to move forward in a holistic way, putting the people first. It wins at life basically.

1. National Pride

You simply cannot hoist a foreign flag (unless you’re manning an embassy) outside your home.

You need prior authorisation from the police to fly another nation’s flag. True story.

2. Public Transport

On time, wide, good space between armrests and odourless lavatories (on trains). The best part is, it doesn’t cost your entire savings to move about – transport costs are surprisingly economy-friendly.

3. Cycling

Amsterdam gets all the praise for their adeptness at cycling but in Denmark the bicycle lanes are as broad as a car lane. There’s little fear of being killed.

4. Pastries

No introduction needed just an empty stomach ready for glazed decadence. Pastry shops burgeon with rafts of laminated doughy goodness with your standard but never disappointing, apple filling. Expect to go up a dress size shortly after.

5. Lamps

Every other shop in Copenhagen is a showroom of innovative bedside, lounge and hallway lamps which look intimidatingly cool. Being that for more than half the year the country is shrouded in darkness, light is a major preoccupation. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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OHLALA! Boutiques

Looks

For Less

Nautical Miles

Take to the seas or simply enjoy the warmer climes as you exude effortless chic in these cool style inspirations.

Youthful Spirit

For Spring-Summer 2015, TopShop Unique’s takes inspiration from the British Isles – a switched-on, dance-all-night, sea-sprayed celebration of British youth culture that lives for the weekend.

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Subtle Edge

Nine West brings new meaning to both style and comfort with new shapes and textures and a focus on femininity and confidence.

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Magical You

This pièce de résistance from Aldo have a magical way of making you and your look centrestage.

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White-Washed

Don’t forget to protect your eyes – and be stylish while at it too with this pair of sunnies from Call It Spring.

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Fab Kids

Get your mini-me to mirror your style with this ensemble from Monsoon so they can look as chic as you.

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All Lined Up

Sailor-chic or street-style fab, this top from Hobbs says casual chic for all the right reasons.

Neck Play

Make this season a fashionable affair, with accessories galore from H&M. This nauticalinspired necklace perfectly complements this look.

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WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2014 | ISSUE 03

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Bahrain Hotspots

Galleria 2015

7pm to 1am, June 26 & 27 Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Ohlala! is the official media partner for the upcoming Galleria 2015 event – an exclusive ladies fashion and design expo. Organised annually by ProVision Marketing & Events as part of its CSR initiatives, the event aims to support talented Bahraini entrepreneurs by providing a platform for them to be introduced to the public, as well as encourage Bahrain’s communities to create a strong social and economic base for the kingdom.

Call 1736 9595

Christina Milian Live In Bahrain!

9pm til late, May 29 Bushido Restaurant & Lounge

To help celebrate Bushido’s sixth anniversary, two-time Grammy nominee Christina Milian will be performing a selection of some of her songs.

The American singer, actress and TV personality is best known for her top RnB singles ‘Dip It Low’ and ‘AM to PM’, and most recently, her role as the media correspondent on America’s ‘The Voice’. The grand event will also feature the talents of Buddha Bar’s international DJ and producer Ravin, and DJ Carlos Campos of Barrio Latino in Paris, supported by Bushido’s resident DJ Albert-L. The show is free entry for all but VIP table reservations are also available.

Marion Labani. The exhibition, which will be opened by Bahraini artist Abbas Almosawi, will feature framed and unframed artworks such as contemporary modern paintings in mixed media, calligraphy in ink and acrylics inspired by Khalil Gibran, Qassim Haddad and Rumi, as well as photographic art, sculptures and jewellery by local and resident artists. Part of the exhibition sales will be donated to a local charity to support child education.

3961 2886, afaf@artdivano.com; 3921 2060, marion@ artdivano.com

1758 3555 or email reservations@bushido.com.bh

ArtDivano Exhibition 4pm to 10pm, May 30 ARTDIVANO Lobby Gallery Reem Centre, Riffa

ARTDIVANO will be presenting ‘The Launch of a Dream’ exhibition by Afaf Zainalabedin and 88

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SAKS’ Little Runway Fashionistas Saks Fifth Avenue Bahrain hosted a Spring-Summer 2015 Fashion Show that saw little princes and princesses show off the stunning season collection on the runway.

IWC Boutique Grand Opening Asia Jewellers hosted the grand opening of IWC Boutique in Moda Mall. The event was highlighted by the presence of Mercedes-Benz F1 driver Nico Rosberg. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Gulf Night Out Gulf Hotel Bahrain once again hosted one of the island’s greatest poolside events. The Gulf Night Out, an authentic Arabian night, treated guests to a great buffet festival, live entertainment and many surprises.

Sofitel’s Spanish Festival Coinciding with the Spanish Festival at Tapas Restaurant featuring authentic creations by Barcelona’s Chef Jordi Gimeno, Sofitel also hosted Bahraini artist Hassan Janahi for the unveiling of his unique art at the Lobby Lounge.

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Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant Opens

The restaurant held its grand opening reception at Block 338 in Adliya. On hand for the ribbon cutting were HE Italian Ambassador Alberto Vecchi, owners Fadi and Denise Kfoury and VIP guests. Also present was HE French Ambassador Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre.

Cavalli Club World Tour F1 Party Hosted by Eventions, the sophisticated party brand Cavalli Club hosted a World Tour F1 Party at Muju Restaurant & Lounge, Dragon Resort.

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Bob sinclar at Bushido Supported by DJ Albert-L, international DJ sensation and producer Bob Sinclar headlined in Bushido’s massive Formula One After Race Party.

Jay Sean Live in Ibrida An exclusive VIP Formula One Opening Party was hosted by Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa at Ibrida featuring singer-songwriter Jay Sean.

Sean Paul at Klub 360 Elite Crystal’s Klub 360 was the venue for the legendary party featuring the rapper, musician, producer and singer, Sean Paul.

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Formula One Lights Up Bahrain Featuring loads of high-octane racing, plenty of fun and family-friendly entertainment, the 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix certainly set pulses racing in the kingdom and beyond.

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OBUSINESS All the latest industry news from the luxury sector in the Middle East Jashanmal Unveils Bally Bespoke Service Jashanmal and Bally have announced that the Bally Scribe Made-To-Order Service is now available at Jashanmal Al A’ali Mall. The Scribe Madeto-Order Collection is the highest expression of Bally’s passion for detail. Fans of the brand have unveiled the new Scribe Novo Collection represents Bally’s new standard of elegance, evolutionary in its design, with contemporary signifiers such as an elongated toe shape created from a more pointed shoe last.

There are five models of both the Scribe Novo and Scribe Novo Light range, featuring exotic skins that include Caiman and Varano, which are offered in dark brown, grey and oxblood.

Ashrafs & WPN Cook Up a Feast Ashrafs and the Women’s Professional Network hosted the First Women’s Professional Network Cooking Event Series in Ashrafs Café in Ashrafs Hoora. Done in collaboration with Saffron Jena Café and Ashrafs Café, the event was held to commemorate ‘Mothers’ Day’. Narise Qamber, the owner of Saffron Jena Café along with her mother, the well-known cook and author Dalal Al Sherooqi presented a live cooking session featuring local Bahraini dishes. Guests from the local community helped celebrate the lively and interactive event, and were later presented with complimentary giveaways courtesy of Ashrafs.

For the second time, Gulf Hotel Bahrain has broken the Guinness World Record of creating the largest tiramisu cake. Part of the activities for the 30th anniversary of the hotel’s Italian restaurant La Pergola, a team of more than 100 executive chefs from Gulf Hotel Bahrain were put together under the guidance of the hotel’s Executive Chef Carlo Sirone, who worked for seven days to prepare the tiramisu cake that weighed 1,600 kilograms and measured 30 metres in length, setting the new world record at the hotel’s Awal Ballroom.

Movenpick is ME’s Best Airport Hotel Apparel’s Little Masters Drawing Competition Apparel Group held a Children’s Drawing competition at the The Children’s Place in Seef Mall Muharraq entitled ‘Little Masters Art Competition’. Open to children ages four to 12, six entries were chosen as the lucky winners, with each receiving special gift vouchers from The Children’s Place. All participants to the event were also given a gift from the store.

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Gulf Hotel Breaks Guiness Tiramisu Record

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain bagged another prestigious award by winning Best Airport Hotel in the Middle East at the 2015 Skytrax World Airport Awards in Paris.

The hotel also ranks as one of the top ten airport hotels in the world. Established in 1999 when Skytrax launched its first global Airport Customer Satisfaction Survey, the non-profit World Airport Awards invited 13 million global travellers over a span of nine months to elect a winner.

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Happy Birthday Ms Taurus Giovanni unveils your future for May

Taurus - at a glance Taureans are generally solid, practical, determined and possess a strong will and intense practicality but they are resistant to change. They are also loyal, romantic and make excellent lovers although they do have a need for reassurance, which can be a little too claustrophobic for some. They can sometimes be stubborn; if you are looking to pick a fight, steer clear of a Taurean! Material comforts are important to Taureans and their homes are they castles. Though financial security is important, emotional security is what gives them strength more than any other worldly possession.

Famous Taureans

Adele | Jessica Alba | David Beckham | Tony Blair | Bono | Cher | Penelope Cruz | Daniel Day Lewis | William Shakespeare | Uma Thurman

Taurus

Leo

Scorpio

Aquarius

Gemini

Virgo

Sagittarius

Pisces

Cancer

Libra

Capricorn

Aries

There’s so much going on at the moment you’d be forgiven for letting the odd thing slip through the net. a business venture is progressing well and other revenue streams previously unexplored will open up delivering promising returns. You’ll need to keep a handle on numerous opportunities presenting themselves but if you can manage this then you’ll be able to lay down a firm foundation from which to work on.

You have been feeling vulnerable of late and this has something to do with a major uncertainty in your love life. You are not usually one to bottle up your fears but it could be that part of you already knows any confrontation will reveal truths you don’t want to face. However, is this current state of limbo really worth suffering?

You have just closed the door on a very difficult April but fortunately as we move into more favourable May [DASH] and your kindred earth sign Taurus [DASH] things will improve dramatically. Valuable lessons have been learnt and you would do well to appreciate those closest to you in future, especially when connected to illness.

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Lions roar but being the loudest beast in the jungle doesn’t always mean you will get your own way. It’s not just about how vocal you are but whether you can provide the actions to back up your claims. If you have a dispute that needs to be settled make sure you have a plan of action should your opponent call your bluff.

You are not always the most tactful sign and your sometimes-analytical view of love can cause friction in relationships and make it difficult for you to meet new people. If there is a new flame on the horizon or you have just entered into a new affair, try thinking less and using your emotions a little more. Talking from the heart can work just as well.

May is a good month for you in general and there is no doubting that many of you will make progress where work is concerned but you can’t relax your efforts because there is still some way to go before you can achieve what you are searching for. Perseverance can sometimes be your downfall so be sure you stick to your task.

You have suffered emotionally of late but the good news for many of you is that the heartaches will now pass and a renewed period of growth and potential is about to be enjoyed from May onwards. Getting your confidence back after a relationship failure can be hard, but someone is waiting in the wings to help you through.

It’s been all about health matters for many of you this month and whilst the worst of a situation is now out of the way, it is advisable for you to remain cautious and not to try and “run before you can walk” again.

Recuperation means just that, so allow the healing process to take its natural course and don’t rush things.

Although you can be an ambitious and successful sign, the nature of the beast you are means that on the flip side you can sometimes allow your darker nature to get the better of you. Don’t allow a minor setback to knock you off course and ruin all the good work already invested. Nothing can stop you in full flow except your own insecurities.

May will be good to you with investments returning well and relationships at the best they have been for some time.

However, you do need to be aware of not allowing complacency to set in. Keep your mind focused and your thoughts on your ambitions and greater opportunities will arise.

You feel like your life has been dropped into a box, shaken violently and then emptied out onto the street for all to view, such is the disarray and turmoil around you at the moment. Emotional and financial pressures are also eating into your insecurities and you need to get a grip quickly before matters pass beyond your control.

You have a lot of work on your hands this coming month but it is focused on subject matter you enjoy. It will help open up a new dimension to your life that is going to bring rich rewards, creatively and financially. On the romance front, time away with a loved one will prove enlightening and reaffirm your commitment to each other.

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The column

The Circle Of Excellence This is a process I often use during my therapy sessions to move people into a more resourceful state.

Firstly identify what is making you sad, depressed, some emotion you just don’t want to feel - an unresourceful state.

For instance today I am feeling sad because I just can’t be with my daughter on her birthday. Then build a powerful resource by imagining a circle on the floor large enough to step into, or even better, use a round rug, or draw a circle with chalk or use a hulahoop.

Stand outside the circle and imagine that you can put all your achievements inside the circle, for example all your experiences when you felt very powerful, the really happy occasions in your life, when you felt amazing, the birth of your children, graduating from school or college, or when a friend surprises you!

Step into the circle and re-access the resourceful state, see what you saw through your own eyes within the actual experience, hear the sounds and the language used, get in touch with the way you felt, the quality of your movements and your breathing. Your emotions at that time, when you were inside the experience, feel yourself change as a result of accessing these memories.

Continue to access other powerful resources, add them one at a time to the circle, layer more and more, and when you have even more resources, step into the circle. Upon entering the circle you step automatically into a very powerful state, the circle is truly now a Circle of Excellence, your Circle of Excellence!

MELISSA CORSARI

Melanie is a Certified Counsellor, NLP Trainer, Hypnotherapist and Reiki Practitioner/Teacher. Contact her on 39330911 or email melanie323@gmail.com 98

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