Ohlala Bahrain September 2018

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE BAHRAIN

Beauty

WITHIN FOR A HEALTHIER YOU

CHOO & ME

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH

SANDRA CHOI

BE STYLISH NEW SEASON LOOKS TO FALL FOR

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM SEPTEMBER 2018 | ISSUE 163 BAHRAIN BD2 | KSA SR10

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MALONE SOULIERS 2

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CONTENTS Ohlala

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H ES etter R F rs L us oc i ito Ed tyle F Cho S dra n Sa

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ch ZY ’ Bea O s C on 018 2 as Se Fest no r u zz nti o F Ja le Va

WILD ONES

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SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE 163

PUBLISHER & CHAIRMAN John Hughes

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Greg Hughes REGIONAL EDITOR Jayne Green ASSISTANT EDITOR Aanchal Duggal

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jyoti Rawat

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Edward Smith Angela Beitz

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTORS Pooja Adam Angela Beitz

PHOTOGRAPHERS

WEBSITE

Helen Houghton Shabana Adam PRODUCTION MANAGER Neil Mahmood DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Ajit Kumar

Rami Khalil

Shobin Joseph

COVER IMAGE

Melek Yildirimtekin

Valentino ACCOUNTANTS CREDITS IMAGE Kate Spade

Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

PRINTING PRESS

DISTRIBUTION

Jayapragash Ganesan

Akhbar Al Khaleej

Bahrain – Al Hilal

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

Qatar – Dar Al Sharq UAE – GLS, Tawseel Distribution & Logistics

ENQUIRIES Editorial: jayne@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: rami@nansgroup.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. 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.

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ANTONIO VALENTI

EDITOR’S LETTER

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hat a summer it has been! I’ve attended more weddings than I have ever been to in my entire life (including organising my Summer 2019 wedding), just as well that I love the cake, isn’t it? With this in mind, said pastries and other culinary delights have created what I’d rather affectionately deem as a ‘food baby’ or indeed a ‘muffin top’, hence why this issue provides an overview of wellbeing both mental and physical for fellow peers. Reading your feedback and/or instagram posts with fitness posts and fashion garnered from the inspiration of Ohlala Magazine always warms my heart as it shows that such content has motivated readers to begin such journeys, keep ’em coming!

With all of this in mind, it is still important to socialise and not deny yourself the indulgence of eating-out, which is why you need to check out our ‘Chic Eats’ section and enjoy our restaurant review which showcases exactly how the dining scene is continuously transforming, yet, maintaining an array of delicious menus. Last, but, by certainly no means least are the latest trends in beauty, which we always have you covered (to the same calibre as that #1 concealer you live for) with everything and anything that is trending, whilst also producing a compact round-up of the newest fashion trends from the catwalks this AW18. Make sure to log onto our website and vote for the upcoming Ohlala Spa & Wellness 2018 Awards in Qatar - after all, we’re all about sharing the love.

Until next issue mwah!

Jayne Green 10

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K L A W HE T LK A W

L A I R O T R A S S E D H N T E IN EW TR D R A N W R E O H F T S T E P E S W I T H AW 1 8 FOR S TA K

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ESPOSA X TIFFANY AND CO X JIMMY CHOO

WISH List OFF DUTY ALWAYS CLASSIC EVEN IN A WHITE SHIRT AND SKINNY JEANS, MEGHAN MANAGED TO LOOK CLASSY-YET-CASUAL IN HER FIRST PUBLIC APPEARANCE WITH PRINCE HARRY. OPTING FOR SUCH A CLASSIC LOOK FORCES THE HIGHLIGHT TO BE ON YOUR SHOES AND HANDBAG, SO IT’S TIME TO PULL OUT THOSE TIMELESS TAN TOTE BAGS AND BALLERINA PUMPS.

THE WEDDING GUEST THE TRENCH DRESS

MEGHAN LOOKED ELEGANT AND POISED AS SHE ATTENDED HER FRIENDS WEDDING IN AUGUST IN A COLOURBLOCK PLEATED SKIRT AND BLACK BLOUSE ENSEMBLE. HAVING THAT LITTLE CONTRAST OF COLOUR IN HER SKIRT MADE HER OUTFIT REALLY STAND OUT. THE HIGH WAISTED SKIRT STYLED WITH A BELT CREATED A SLIMMING WAISTLINE WHICH COMPLIMENTS BOTH SLIM AND CURVY SILHOUETTES.

EXPERIMENT WITH NUDE ACCESSORIES AND CREATE YOUR IDEAL TRENCH LOOK WITH A FEMININE TWIST. WE FOUND THAT SO MANY BRANDS HAVE THEIR TAKE ON THE CLASSIC TRENCH COAT IN THEIR COLLECTIONS THIS AW18 FROM THE CLASSIC BURBERRY, TO THE MORE AFFORDABLE MAJE, MAX MARA, KAREN MILLEN AND SANDRO.

THE PRINCESS DIARIES Fashion insider Pooja Adams deconstructs the sartorial looks from the Duchess of Sussex

Meghan stole our hearts ever since we saw her appear on TV in Suits back in 2011 but more recently she (quite literally) found her prince charming and has been in the spotlight even more, following her engagement to Prince Harry. Just like her newfound sister-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge, the items of clothing and brands that Meghan has been wearing sold out faster than you can take a selfie. This year was just the icing on the cake as she walked down the aisle with the most eagerly awaited wedding which was broadcasted live to the world who looked on with champagne and bunting at the ready. We adore her chic and minimal style and can’t wait to see what she wears next. @lesrebellesquad

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STYLE

Focus

DENIM, LEATHER & VINYL A.M.G. BRAND DESIGNER ALENA BETTIAR, FOCUSES ON THE FASHION OF THE 90’S FOR AW18. IT WAS THE ERA THAT FORMED THE FASHION TRENDS THAT HAVE BECOME ICONIC TODAY - DENIM, DRESSES IN LINEN STYLE, BOMBERS AND DOWN COATS. BETTIAR HAD SUCCESSFULLY REFLECTED THE KEY IDEA OF FREEDOM AND CULTURE OF INNOVATION OF THE 90S WHICH REMAINS TO BE POPULAR THIS SEASON.

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Chloé's FALL WINTER 2018-2019

Robust, sensual and with a tremendously French allure

A

llure is a unique and individual expression emerging from deep within.

These latest accessories act as beacons, directing allure outward. They further the vision that Natacha Ramsay-Levi established with her debut collection while reflecting an expanded field of inspiration.

As first seen on the runway, each new bag design enhances the season’s silhouettes through a varying proposition in texture, colors and recurring Chloé signatures such as the small horses embroidered onto leather. New features include the quilted leather or the spazzolato sfumatto smoked treatment, and the baroque C emblem arranged as a decorative motif.

Rounded shapes – a hallmark of the house – create a coherent message; and, as always, the versatility of each style remains essential.

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STYLE

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Focus

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WHETHER YOU

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INSPIRATION FOR BOTH. 18

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STYLE

MARIO DICE

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

DOLCE & GABBANA

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MARINE SERRE

CHRISTIAN DIOR

BALENCIAGA

Focus

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS THE PERENNIAL ICONS RUBIN SINGER

OF FASHION, WHETHER LITERAL OR ABSTRACT, INTERPRETATION OR INSPIRATION, IN SOME SHAPE OR FORM, FLORALS ARE THE EVERGREEN TREND,

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STYLE

Focus

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KE EP H O F I G YO U TH H W R S E H IT TA OT H O N D A TE UR R ST E DS AR HEE DIT OU LS ND .

VA L

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CHRISTIAN

GAMO

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M MI ICHA CH E AE L LK OR S

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DESIGNER

Focus

LET’S TALK ABOUT

CHOO AND ME Trends come-and-go, yet, iconic pieces stay forever in our hearts and secure in our memories… None more than Jimmy Choo.

JAYNE GREEN delves into the world of their Creative Director SANDRA CHOI and we’re officially transfixed.

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DESIGNER

Focus

“Jimmy Choo is a celebratory brand, it makes you feel good to wear something that is beautiful, exquisitely made and fun!”

Y

our uncle, Jimmy Choo, is easily one of the most iconic designers of his time. Do you feel a certain level of pressure to ‘live-up’ to expectations, as his niece?

I had a lot of respect for his talent as a shoemaker, he was an expert at the craft. He had a meticulous attention to detail when it came to the form of a shoe and its finish. He instilled the importance of this in me from the beginning. He taught me the fundamental principles of making shoes by hand. I will forever be grateful for the experience I learnt working with Jimmy and the people I met during the time we were there, it was an amazing journey and I was very fortunate.

You’re quoted as saying that “We’re all in transition, constantly evolving”.

How have you ensured that this vision is showcased throughout the design process in Jimmy Choo’s collections?

Jimmy Choo is a celebratory brand, it makes you feel good to wear something that is beautiful, exquisitely made and fun! We also have a global identity, we are a British brand based in London but we aren’t defined by that which allows for a global customer to be able to identify with us.

The essence of who we are has remained the same over the past 20 years, creating beautifully crafted shoes made in Italy that have fashion edge combined with timeless elegance with touches of novelty.

Over the years we have diversified our collections to include bags, sunglasses and fragrance as well as launching our successful Men’s line.

As fashion and lifestyle collide ever closer in recent collections I have been responding to the multiple roles women play in their lives, I know what that entails being a mother with a successful career. I need my shoe and bag wardrobe to adapt accordingly helping to carry me effortlessly through the many paces taken in my day.

The idea of a jet-set lifestyle continues to play a relevant role in the development of the label. Where do you gain your inspiration for such innovative designs?

I find inspiration in the everyday, I am constantly inspired that’s the nature of being a creative. My life is rich with sources and it changes from season to season. Vintage fashion, architecture, a musician, photography, art and nature, or as simple as an album cover – all of them continue to play a part in triggering my seasonal inspirations.

Jimmy Choo has already gained international status with a whole accolade of icons adorning their feet with said creations, including Princess Diana in 1997 to forever being immortalized in the revered television series ‘Sex and the City’. Is there anyone else you would love to collaborate with?

The Sex and The City episode when Carrie Bradshaw cried “I lost my Choo” was pivotal in making Jimmy Choo a household name across the world.

Celebrities play an important role in bringing the brand’s fantasy element and fairy tale transformation to life. The red carpet becomes a global catwalk during Awards season which gives us incredible visibility. The stylish girls on the social scene and street style bloggers are great at experimenting with strong fashion looks whilst having fun with our product, it gives people a different perspective on how to wear and be more daring with the collections.

We have been very fortunate to have support from the world of film and celebrity from early on when we pioneered our relationship with the red carpet and that has helped to build the brands global allure and radiance over the past 22 years.

I believe in experimenting when it is built on authenticity, it brings freshness and energy to the collections.

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DESIGNER

Focus

You were appointed as sole Creative Director in 2013. What design from the Jimmy Choo brand could you not live without?

Every woman should have the following styles in their wardrobe: • A pointy toe pump – timeless and gives you an instant confidence boost with the power to transform an outfit • Booties – I live in these through the year summer or winter • Strappy sandals that make you feel on top of the world • A pair of statement shoes • A good pair of flats I always say that you must know your limits, there is a perfect heel height for everyone in our collections, once you have found it you will always be confident in your shoes, mine is 100mm. Practice walking in new shoes. Never let your shoes wear you. Plan a new look carefully so you can identify the best shoe to wear with it. And try planning your outfit starting with the shoes!

What is your plan for the near future, and where do you hope to take Jimmy Choo in the next five to ten years?

We have achieved so much in 22 years it is hard to think where we could be in 5-10 years! I am committed to nurturing what we have done already and evolving and innovating the collections to maintain a fresh perspective that continues to surprise and delight people. We need to keep the fantasy alive and the powerful emotional connection our customers have with our product whilst innovating our design and expanding our collections and allowing people to dream.

Tell us about your biggest challenge that you have faced within your role and how you have overcome such difficulties.

One of the biggest changes to my role is juggling leading the creative design process across all product categories, brand image whilst being a public spokesperson for the brand, it is something I am learning to balance, I feel immensely proud of my role and enjoy speaking about the product and the brand but find it harder talking about the more personal things.

How would you describe someone who wears Jimmy Choo?

She is every woman, she is intelligent and open minded. We are very fortunate to have a global customer who isn’t defined by age, or culture. What the Jimmy Choo woman shares is an innate confidence and effortless glamour. She is cosmopolitan, daring, instinctively seductive and playful.

The Autumn Winter 2018 Jimmy Choo Collection is reminiscent of the illustrator Erté, who invented Art Deco as we know it, with his infamous lyrical alphabet. How have you integrated this influence throughout the design?

This season I feel it is time for fashion to rediscover exquisiteness. With Jimmy Choo’s glamorous heritage in mind I wanted the collection to embrace an alluring beauty with contemporary freshness. Autumn Winter ‘18 is about balancing the form with the decoration, super sexy but with a graceful refinement that transcends day to night style.

“The Sex and The City episode when Carrie Bradshaw cried “I lost my Choo” was pivotal in making Jimmy Choo a household name across the world. “

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Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that not many people are aware of.

I always remember the shoes that I wear at special times of my life, and what other people are wearing also at that time. I always remember what shoes my husband was wearing on our first date.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS

FAVOURITE SCENT? JIMMY CHOO SIGNATURE FAVOURITE DESIGNER? (OTHER THAN JIMMY CHOO) THE ROW, NANUSHKA AND MOTHER OF PEARL FAVOURITE FOOD? I DO NOT HAVE ONE SINGLE FAVOURITE FOOD. WHAT I DO LIKE IS TO TRY TO EAT WHAT IS SEASONALLY AVAILABLE. FAVOURITE BEAUTY PRODUCT? ELIZABETH ARDEN: 8 HOUR CREAM Jimmy Choo is exclusively available at Saks Fifth Avenue, City Centre Bahrain.

www.ohlala-magazine.com EVENING LOOKS31

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STRENGTH & STYLE THIS SEASON’S WOMAN IS NOT AFRAID TO MAKE A STATEMENT WITH HER BEAUTY, AND THE RESULTS MAKE FOR SOME ARRESTING LOOKS

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LANCOME

CHANEL

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BODY JO MA HAIR OIL, LONDONLONE

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FLAW FUSIO LESS LONGWN ULTRA FOUN EAR LAURADATION, MERCIE R

BEAUTY Buzz

LIVE BLOS IRRESISTIBL GIVENSCOM CRUSH, E HY

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BEAUTY Focus

Behind the Scenes DIOR REINVENTS MAKE-UP WITH DIOR BACKSTAGE: THE FIRST MAKE-UP LINE INSPIRED BY THE BACKSTAGE AND DESIGNED

BY PETER PHILIPS, CREATIVE AND IMAGE DIRECTOR FOR DIOR MAKEUP, FOR EVERY WOMAN WHO WANTS A PROFESSIONAL RESULT. THE LINE IS COMPOSED OF 40 FOUNDATION SHADES, TWO EYE PALETTES, TWO EYEBROW PALETTES, ONE FACE SCULPTING PALETTE AS WELL AS ONE FOR HIGHLIGHTING AND ONE FOR LIPS. THE ELEGANTLY TRANSPARENT PACKAGING ALLOWS YOU TO SEE THEIR COLOUR AT A GLANCE, AN ASSET FOR MAKEUP ARTISTS WORKING IN THE HECTIC BACKSTAGE ATMOSPHERE AS WELL AS FOR WOMEN LOOKING TO FIND THE RIGHT SHADE IMMEDIATELY. 36

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BEAUTY Focus

Apotheosis, Le Mat De Chanel

HAVING MINED SUCH RICH TERRITORIES AS COLOUR, DECONSTRUCTION AND ARTIFICE IN HER NINE CHANEL BEAUTY COLLECTIONS THUS FAR, LUCIA PICA CONSIDERS TEXTURE FOR THE AW18 COLLECTION. TAPPING THE EMOTIONAL DEPTH AND VISUAL INTENSITY OFFERED BY MATTE SURFACES, THE SELECTION OF EYE AND LIP COLOURS IN APOTHEOSIS, LE MAT DE CHANEL EVOKES A UNIQUELY FEMININE SENSIBILITY ONE OF INNER QUIETUDE, SERENITY AND SELF POSSESSION. HARMONY BETWEEN A WOMAN’S INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL WORLDS IS CAPTURED IN A COLOUR PALETTE THAT BRINGS EARTHY, AUTUMNAL SHADES FOR SCULPTING TOGETHER WITH EMOTIVE COLOUR TONES TO BE APPLIED IN WASHES OR LAYERED LIKE VIBRANT OILS. THEIR LIGHT-ABSORBING FORMULATIONS SEEM TO CONTROL AND SOFTEN THE FORCE OF THEIR SURROUNDINGS. 38

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BEAUTY Column

T

change their body and then tell other people their body is achievable, giving false standards and hope; do not ever take drugs to change your body, they are extremely harmful. Silly fitness equipment, like EMS and waist trainers, some of these are harmful to set up ABS? and not natural for the body to use.

I’m from the UK and have been in What are the most important the fitness industry 20 years. From factors a person needs to take on in the young age of 14 I took work terms of changing their body and experience in a fitness centre. Since becoming fit and more healthy? then I have developed through The first is your mindset, you need various education streams and to be disciplined, committed and working roles to reach this point of willing to struggle. Not being starting my own company in the influenced by friends and social UAE. In my career I have worked activities. Communicating with their with over 1000 people on a one-topersonal trainer regularly and being one basis, transforming their mind honest about their habits and out of and bodies. ABS was officially gym activities. formed in February 2017. ABS How do you think Social Media and is not based on my name, it’s an in particular, Instagram negatively abbreviation for what we call “athletic affects both men and women? body shape.” Athletic is to make us Social media has become a bragging more fit and functional, Body is to ground for the insecure and those connect the body and mind, Shape So often we are focused on losing that need social approval from is create that desired aesthetic look. weight and following FAD diets that we others. This is a one-way ticket to Since a young age I knew my purpose unhappiness for the influencer and was to help people get healthier and forget about nourishing our soul and consumer who strives to achieve happier. As a man, having a close listening to the needs of our body. We something that is unrealistic. Today, relationship with my mother and speak to fitness coach ABS SHARMA people give too much value to the sister gave me a sensitivity towards superficial, when they do not know the challenges women face and my about ways to initiate a natural health the reality of the person making a goals have also been to empower and movement to uplift yourself. Words by post. It could be far different than uplift them.

ANGELA BEITZ what they portray. They only show What are your best tips in terms of their best bits! There is huge danger diet and staying healthy? in comparing ourselves and not valuing our true self. We lose our identity and My advice is to eat fresh, non-processed foods. If you look at a label and it has many different ingredients, especially with long words on it then it cannot be use false examples as a gauge for our success. To prevent this, we need to work healthy. For example, fish is fish, nuts are nuts, greens are greens (nothing is on our minds, promote and acknowledge the smart and not superficial. Love added – they are healthy). Don’t snack, don’t overeat, and don’t consume too doesn’t come from likes on a post, if comes from working on ourselves and much sugar. Avoid bad fats and eat plenty of good fats. Avoid or cut down on helping those around us. your dairy and refined and high GI carbohydrates. Don’t follow a diet that What are your tips or advice for anyone who wants to change their life and was not made for you, everyone is different and not everyone can eat the same get super fit and healthy? foods. Our diets are specific to how your bodies hormones are functioning You need to assess everything in your life. This includes your environment friends and who is around you, reminding yourself why you want to do this. and your body goals.

Get professional help, we cannot develop without help. Make sure the help What do you dislike about the fitness industry?

Photoshopped pictures and videos. Fake bodies (butt implants and injections), is stable minded and lives the life they preach honestly. Set big goals, but we can change our body naturally and look better. People on social media make small but positive improvements daily and work on your mind first, pretending to embrace fitness because it’s cool and not because they really everything else follows. want to get healthy. Personal trainers who keep showing how good their own body is. Fitness supplements - they are a are a scam, the best way to change Instagram @abs.sharma, Whatsapp: +971 5440 08632, your body is using wholesome food. Personal trainers that have taken drugs to www.absthecoach.com ell us a little bit about yourself and how you got into the Fitness Industry? What gave you the idea

MIND, BODY & SOUL

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BEAUTY Insight

GETTING FABULOUS WITH

FENTY

PRISCILLA ONO is the Global Make-up Artist for Fenty Beauty, and she’s also been doing Rihanna’s make-up long before the brand launched.

OHLALA chats to her about the range and all her tips and tricks

W

hat are the perks of being global makeup artist for Fenty Beauty?

This is my dream job, I get to glam the most influential woman of our era, Rihanna! And I love that Fenty Beauty products have such attention to detail when it comes to ALL skin tones. I’ve found that each product really looks good on everyone.

What are you tips for heatproof and humidity proof beauty?

I would definitely recommend using Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer and Longwear Foundation! They were made to be humidity resistant and really help your makeup last without having to touch up so much throughout the day.

What is your idea of a perfect summer makeup?

To me, the perfect summer makeup is all about radiance and uses lots of colour I use the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighters to create that effortless glow and the Summer Limited Edition Fairy Bomb Pom Pom is the perfect finishing touch to give your summer body a little shimmer.

How did you start out as a make-up artist?

I’ve always had a passion for makeup and creating beauty looks, and then decided to make it a career 14 years ago! My first job was working on set of a music video, doing makeup for Dawn Robinson from the group “En vogue.”

Who is your ultimate beauty icon and why?

Growing up in the late 90s, it was Gwen Stefani. Her chola thin eyebrows and classic Red Lip was my staple throughout high school! I still look back and think, wow she was so cool!

The cat-eye flick is still the bane of many women’s lives. What’s a simple way to get a flawless flick, everytime?

Drawing the flick while the eye is open. That’s the only way you can know what it really looks like. Also, it’s much easier if you draw it with pencil first and go over it with liquid liner after.

What’s one beauty rule was made to be broken?

One rule that was made to be broken is if you wear bright eyeshadow, you can’t wear bright lip – not true!

Finding the right foundation is a daunting task – what’s your advice for women when it comes to finding the right formula and the right shade?

You have to know your skin type in order to choose your perfect formula. If you’re oily, you want to use a matte finish foundation.

If you’re dry, you want to use a creamier finish or I recommend mixing the PRO FILT’R Long Wear Foundation with the primer or a moisturiser. If you’re combination, you can use both a matte and creamy foundation. To find your shade, you first identify your shade range – Light, Medium, Tan or Deep. Then you determine your skins undertone, which you can figure out by how you react to the sun. If your skin burns easily, you’re likely a cool undertone. If you tan easily, you’re likely a warm undertone.

If you burn first and then tan, you’re most likely neutral.

What’s your ultimate makeup trick?

When I apply Fenty Beauty Killawatt Highlighter on the face, I spray with a mist and then apply another round of highlighter, then another round of mist. It gives a super glowy effect without looking grey or cakey. @fentybeauty www.ohlala-magazine.com

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HEALTH Files WHAT IS IT? THE KETOGENIC DIET IS A DIETARY STYLE THAT FOCUSES ON A LOW CARB INTAKE (BETWEEN 20-70 GRAMS PER DAY), HIGH FAT INTAKE AND MODERATE PROTEIN INTAKE. THE GOAL OF IT IS THAT, ONCE OUR CARBOHYDRATE STORAGES ARE DEPLETED, THE BODY BEGINS TO USE ADIPOSE TISSUE (FAT) WITHIN THE BODY TO FUEL ITSELF IN A PROCESS CALL KETOSIS, THEREFORE BURNING UNWANTED BODY FAT.

Now, let’s talk myths, truths and lies...

FEELING KETOGENIC Certified wellness coach ANAHI BROWN plates up her insight into the Keto Diet and demystifies the process.

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veryone is going Keto, or at least that is what it seems like. From celebrities to doctors, this diet is rapidly becoming popular, even bypassing Paleo in terms of google searches within the last few months! Not everyone approaches The Ketogenic Diet the same way and not everyone knows how to do it right, so, it is understandable why there is plenty of confusion surrounding this approach to food.

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Myth #1: Keto is dangerous because it increases our cholesterol Let me start with this statement: Cholesterol isn’t the enemy. In fact, it is the precursor of our sex-hormones, which is why we’re having an epidemic in hormonal issues and infertility in places where the low-fat diet is highly popular. What is actually a risk when it comes to heart health? Triglycerides. What raised them? Carbs.

Now, because in the 80s and 90s medical and nutrition institutions started their war on fat, we have grown to believe that fat is the worst possible thing we could ever eat, when in fact it is the preferred source of fuel that our bodies have.

But in the end, there isn’t evidence at all that a Ketogenic diet poses any problem to our heart’s health and, in fact, the improvements in inflammation, cognition, hormonal and circulatory health that this dietary style has to offer, is quickly debunking the unjustified bad rep that fat has had for so long.

Myth #2: Keto is a new and under researched diet Even though the Ketogenic Diet is getting lots of press and all the “cool kids” and celebrities are raving about it, the truth is that this diet is neither new nor revolutionary.

On the contrary, the use of a therapeutic Ketogenic diet to treat illnesses like epilepsy goes back to ancient Greece, to around 400 BC. Later, in 1921, physicians in different American research centres, including Russell Wilder at Mayo Clinic, started tweaking a version of it and combining it with fasting to help patients.

So, as you can see, Keto isn’t a new science at all, however, after decades of demonising fats and building up grains and carbs as the nutritional holy grail, many of us have gone against this and back to what we feel works best for us.

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HEALTH Files

“We have grown to believe that fat is the worst possible thing we could ever eat, when in fact it is the preferred source of fuel that our bodies have.”

Myth #3: Keto is nutritionally poor I read versions of this one a lot. Especially from experts claiming that it leads to malnutrition due to the absence of grains and fruits.

This myth is just a highly uneducated misinterpretation of Keto.

The reality is that, unlike what most mainstream Keto proponents say, when you do Keto, as many do, focusing on butter, beef and bacon, you’ll have a massive nutritional gap to fill, however this is true for most diets really.

If you do Keto with a base on fresh vegetables and real food it can be much more nourishing than a “normal” diet because you’re not bulking up with low quality and anti-nutrients dense grains, and you’re also absorbing vitamins and minerals better by combining them with healthy fats.

It is also important to say that in everything related to nutrition, quality is key. You can do Keto eating mostly junk but that sooner or later will bring you health issues; whilst if you focus on a Ketogenic Diet packed with mostly organic, fresh and unprocessed vegetables and seeds, antibiotics and hormone free proteins and, large amounts of clean fats, both animal and vegetal, you will be setting yourself for success.

Myth #4: On Keto, you can eat unlimitedly and still lose weight 46

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Most people approach Keto as an option when looking to shed some unwanted weight. In my professional experience, this diet works wonders on that department for most people.

However, the claims that you can eat buckets and buckets of avocados, butter and nuts and don’t gain a single gram because you are “in ketosis” is flawed.

Although weight gain and weight loss is a bit more complex than merely calories in versus calories out, if you over consume calories, regardless of the quality and type of calories you consume, there isn’t a dietary style where you can overeat and lose weight.

Having said that, I want to add that, in my personal and professional experience with clients, if you approach Keto with an anchor in self-love (aka I’m choosing these foods because they heal my body and mind and make me feel better) and get emotional and mindful support through your journey, overeating won’t happen much because you will be able to question cravings and will choose to eat the best foods you deserve and only when you are really hungry.

This is my approach with my clients. Yes, we go through the Ketogenic principles, always with a base on real unprocessed food, but we also do a lot of emotional work to make sure the changes are sustainable, and the process makes you empowered and joyful, and not a total emotional wreck.

Myth #5: Whilst on Keto, you can’t exercise I have heard this a lot and always makes me laugh. The truth is that unless you are a bodybuilder or a high-performance athlete, Keto will work perfectly for you, especially if thought through correctly.

If you are like me, who despite a sedentary job enjoys daily high intensity activities (like Crossfit, HIIT, Muay Thai, etc.) a Ketogenic diet can support your metabolism in reducing inflammation and getting better results from your workouts. Even when fasting!

The main thing here is to plan your training and use tools like carb backloading to make sure you have enough energy to respond and recover from your training sessions. It’s more about planning that about restricting.

These myths are just some examples of the misinformation that we are fed around Keto and other diets. The key in the end is to keep in mind that there isn’t a magic potion that works for everyone, so in the end my best advice is to try it, adjust and personalise it as you go along. @wellnessbyanahi

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info@Saarmallbahrain.com

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THE ANTI-RIPPLE EFFECT

OHLALA couldn’t resist trialling DESSANGE BAHRAIN’s Pevonia Smoothing Cellulite Body Treatment and ironing out some body flaws along the way.

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OHLALA Spotlight

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ffering all the peace and privacy of a monastic cell, but thankfully none of its spartan nature, Dessange proves itself as the ideal place to drag your knotted back and furrowed brow for a spot of proper relaxation. With valet parking too, they allow this serenity to commence as soon as you arrive on the premises.

The health-conscious know that caffeinated drinks such as coffee are one of the main culprits responsible for the dreaded orange-peel. Applied topically, however, coffee has had the beauty world abuzz with its dimpledestroying ability. The latest salon superfood is green coffee, which skincare company Pevonia have used as the main ingredient in this body wrap that stimulates the breakdown of fat while firming, slimming and smoothing skin tone and texture. This slimming and toning wrap stimulates your body’s ability to break down fat, increase metabolism and eliminate water retention. Pure 100% Micronized Green Coffee, naturally rich in chlorogenic acid, polysaccharides, proteins, and essential oils, smooths and enhances your skin’s overall texture, visibly reducing spongy, dimply, cellulitic areas. To say I was excited for what was about to ensue was an understatement.

After getting changed into one of their fluffy dressing gowns and slippers I sat down in their spas waiting area with a refreshing detox water as I filled out their consultation form. I must say that the standards of professionalism that their staff showcase throughout all of the diverse roles required in such a busy establishment is truly an acumen to Dessange and their continued work ethos.

After I was escorted to my treatment room I undressed and lay myself face down on the bed where I was pleasantly met with some warmth on account of the heated Cosmoslim blanket which made sure that I was as ‘snug-as-a-bug-ina-rug’ throughout. My therapist cheerily buffed away with a gentle exfoliator that stimulates circulation and removes impurities (perfect for us ladies with acne!) which I then rinsed off in one of their private showers, before returning for my therapist to apply a cellulite-busting gel. It was a surreal but pleasant feeling being smothered in blue goo to further activate circulation, which further increased the heat of my skin - something I long for as my circulation is well and truly ‘shot’. Now, here’s the fun part, once their Micronized Green Coffee Powder Mask was applied I was then wrapped in what I can only describe as a heated mattress - feeling like a pampered burrito! A soothing head massage quickly ensued as I gently marinated for 20 minutes. The cream is cold on application but heats up after a few seconds which I liked to think was busting those pesky fat cells, so prepare to sweat during this treatment.

After rinsing with warm water, my pampering experience didn’t stop there as I received a lovely back massage followed up with a full body application of moisturiser to conclude my treatment. To ensure results are maintained it is recommended to start receiving this treatment once or twice a week, for a minimum of six weeks, until the condition improves and then for routine maintenance it is advised for once a month.

As always, I left with a heavy heart that my treatment had ended, but, I was happy that I felt definitively less bloated with a sudden surge of energy as my usual swollen legs felt that they had a new lease of life and were visibly reduced. Now, where’s that skirt to show off my fabulous new pins…?

“This slimming and toning wrap stimulates your body’s ability to break down fat, increase metabolism and eliminate water retention.”

@dessangebahrain www.ohlala-magazine.com

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DESIGNER

Focus

ABSOLUTELY

FLAWLESS Global PRO tarteist™ for Tarte Cosmetics FREDDY LOPEZ reveals to JAYNE GREEN why he loves his job and why you must invest in your skin..

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ell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m going into my 13th year of being in the makeup industry and I still have my original passion for the creative flexibility that makeup allows. I love working for a brand that is conscious about what we put on our skin. Maureen Kelly, Tarte Founder & CEO, says it best, “We wear our makeup longer than we sleep at night” so it’s incredibly important what we put on our skin.

When did you first know you wanted to become a makeup artist?

I first knew I wanted to be a makeup artist when I applied makeup to a client and their face lit up with joy. To this date I seek to find that joy in all my clients. I find that makeup can be utilised as a tool to strengthen your emotional wellbeing.

Where do you manifest your inspiration from?

When I’m in “inspiration mode” I find that architecture inspires me quite a lot. Perhaps it’s the symmetry or asymmetry that can be found in design that allows me to get my creativity going. I also look to music, history of fashion and magazines. Tarte is a fun, fresh, effervescent brand that captures the joy of beauty in such a fun way - it’s quite refreshing.

Let’s talk about your work with Tarte Cosmetics. What does a ‘typical’ day serving as a global PRO tarteist™ look like?

My days vary quite a lot. I can be ‘on set’ shooting our new Amazonian Clay Shoot with 4-5 curators in New York. Then the next

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day be off on a plane for a #TrippinWithTarte trip, for instance. This last month I was in San Francisco, New York, Middle East, and Costa Rica all in one month. At Tarte we’re always involved with the latest trends, last year we supported the Victoria’s Secret House Party during Coachella. It was amazing and so much fun! We believe in what we call “Tarteistry”. That’s merging Tarte + Artistry which provides you with some stellar products! Sometimes I’m quite shocked myself how much travel is happening... in a good way of course. It’s always been a dream job for me.

What has been your biggest challenge to date? How did you overcome this?

Oh gosh! The biggest challenge to date must be making sure that I’m on my A-game...always! Travel can take-up a lot of energy, so, I make sure to eat healthy, drink lots of Vitamin C, and I always pack my comfort pillow for long plane rides.

I’m an official convert to Tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer. What is your favourite Tarte product and why?

I’m so glad you love this concealer. It’s one of my favorites as it also cares for the delicate skin around the eyes. It’s made with pure maracuja oil and Vitamin E and it’s such a great full coverage creaseless concealer. Maracuja means miracle and it truly is a miracle oil. I will forever be obsessed with Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer. It blurs out fine lines whilst also filling in pores and fine lines. It’s a literal Instagram filter for your skin!

What is your favourite beauty trend that has manifested as of late?

Beauty trends come and go, however I hope that the trend that stays is the empowering movement of makeup. I see many articles of how makeup is giving confidence to people

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“AT TARTE WE’RE ALWAYS INVOLVED WITH THE LATEST TRENDS, LAST YEAR WE SUPPORTED THE VICTORIA’S SECRET HOUSE PARTY DURING COACHELLA. IT WAS AMAZING AND SO MUCH FUN!”

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DESIGNER

Focus

all over the world and I hope this continues. At Tarte we have a #KissAndMakup campaign to spread love and stop cyber-bullying The Middle-East is renowned for its love of precision around the eyes. What is your top tip for the perfect application of liner?

My favorite tip is setting the eyes with our Smooth Operator Transparent Loose Powder to take away any excess oils. Oils tend to cost the longevity of the eyeliner so this is always a great way to prep your eyes for liner and you can set your liner as well to further prevent fading.

Tell us your #1 beauty hack and/or tip(s) to share with our lovely Ohlala readers.

My favorite beauty hack is perfecting skin. If your skin is jammin’, anything and everything else will look so much better! Maracuja Oil will change your skin. I use it everyday and carry it in my makeup kit everywhere I go.

What piece of advice would you share with other MUA’s looking up to you?

I would say to be creative! Makeup has no boundaries and neither should your creativity.

Reveal an interesting fact that we wouldn’t ordinarily know of.

I love animals! I grew up on a farm with chickens, goats, bunnies and I love being able to work for a cruelty free brand like Tarte. @tartecosmetics / @makeupbyfreddy

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HEALTH Files

PAMPERED PRINCESS The enchanting interior of REEF AQUA SPA situated at REEF RESORT, Bahrain pulled us into an oasis of serenity and captivated us to the point where we absolutely had to indulge ourselves.

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fter a hectic summer I thought I’d treat myself to a few hours of rest, relaxation and pampering especially for all the long hours that I’ve recently put in at work. This was my first visit to Reef Aqua Spa, but, it definitely won’t be my last. From the minute one walks through the door they are greeted by warm, friendly staff and an ambience of serenity and peace enthralls you. For me, this is the perfect combination allowing me to immediately feel at home, and thus let myself unwind.

First on the agenda was my OPI manicure and pedicure where my technician allowed me to sink into the comfy massage chair as I enjoyed a foot soak. She 54

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followed suit with my cuticles using an array of OPI scrubs and moisturisers that smelled absolutely heavenly. Once my nails were meticulously clipped and buffed, a ‘mellow-yellow’ shade of nail polish swiftly adorned my nails and the result was nothing short of fabulous. After this initial insight into the spa and its repertoire, nothing could of calmed me for the next wave of relaxation.

I was further welcomed and escorted off to one of their treatment rooms that was beautifully prepared and ready for my arrival. The walk alone to said treatment room was mystifying as every inch of decor has been designed so intricately that you cannot help but be distracted. After undressing I lay facedown on the massage table and almost immediately began to let go ready for my 60 minute Balinese Massage. With long, smooth strokes my therapist

massaged a generous helping of fragrant aromatherapy oil onto my tense and tired body, and already I was sold. With soft supple hands that just melted into my skin my therapist had clearly been well-trained, knowing exactly how much pressure to apply on different parts of the body, and using not only palms and fingers but also forearms for deeper, broader work. I was sinking into a semi-conscious state and feeling wonderfully pampered. The sensitivity in my neck, and the large knots in my shoulders were now reduced greatly and I’d felt very different to the woman who walked through the doors just an hour ago!

Now to add more delectable enjoyment to my experience, my next treatment was an Elemis Superfood Pro-Radiance Facial, also known for its properties of energising and detoxifying stressed, dull skin with a nutritional superfood boost. Here I was treated to an entire array of natural, beautifully scented products from the Elemis skincare range. Starting with an eye and lip cleanse before a full facial cleanse with their Superfood Facial Wash - smooth and silky it massages into the skin easily, offering a deep cleanse. Each skincare product is removed using a warm compress and a toner was then applied to cleanse any residue product from my skin and this was followed by their Superfood Facial Oil - a light-weight and nongreasy product with an incredulously captivating Sweet Orange, Palmarose and Rosemary scent. The oil was gently massaged into my face, neck and décolleté thereby increasing vitality and circulation within the skin.

Following this my therapist applied an Amino Active Mask that was left for 10 minutes to ‘do its magic’ during which time the personal indulgence continued with a delicious and soothing scalp massage.

The final stages of the facial include removing, or should I say peeling the mask off, was the application of their Pro-Collagen Eye Renewal, a must for all us women who want to keep those fine lines and wrinkles at bay. The generous application of Serum and Superfood Day Cream ensured that I

was suitably moisturised and hydrated throughout the day.

This really was such a great way to spend my afternoon and something I most definitely need to schedule into my calendar more often.The wonderful state of peace and calm that I felt is something I’d like to keep with me throughout my day. I suppose I’ll just have to return on a regular basis to help me maintain not only beautiful, well-cared for skin but also to bring my body back to a balanced, pain-free and supple state - and you should too! @reef.aqua.spa / @reef_resort_bahrain

“The sensitivity in my neck, and the large knots in my shoulders were now reduced greatly and I’d felt very different to the woman who walked through the doors just an hour ago!”

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OHLALA Spotlight

FOUR SEASONS WHITE SAND BEACH SUN, SEA AND SAND AWAIT AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

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uests at Manama’s top luxury hotel set to enjoy the ultimate vacation feature this summer. Mesmerising blue seas and pristine white sands are taking the guest experience to new heights at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, following the launch of The Beach.

Curving along the private island’s sun-drenched southern shore, the Hotel’s 160-metre (525-foot) expanse of white sand soft opened on August 20. The Beach offers a full spectrum of world-class amenities and seaside activities, making it the perfect summer retreat for the whole family.

Guests can look forward to legendary Four Seasons hospitality while lounging in an idyllic seafront destination, set amid lush landscaping and the glittering backdrop of the Manama skyline. The much-anticipated addition to the Hotel completes its transition from an urban resort to a fully-fledged island getaway in the heart of the Kingdom’s capital city. @fsbahrain www.ohlala-magazine.com

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BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST IS BACK! Taking place at the ROYAL GOLF CLUB driving range, BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST 2018 is bringing food galore, family-friendly vibes and world-class entertainment for music fans to enjoy!

BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST 2018

The second edition of Bahrain’s International Jazz Fest is supported

by EDB and set to be bigger and better than the last! Following the success of the debut festival in 2017, this year’s musical soiree will see a variety of food trucks and beverage areas as well as interactive children’s areas, art zones and markets. More than 5000+ festivalgoers are expected to turn out and witness the musical extravaganza, covering artists from the jazz, swing, fusion, blues, and ska electro genres. There will be nine different jazz styles from nine jazz bands, playing interactive artists playing amongst the crowd. The festival will adopt more digital innovations including a mobile app and cashless payments as well as a collaborative area for amateur musicians to network. An enhanced area for merchandise and artist meet and greet will be available, alongside more park and ride services to the jazz fest venue. We take a closer look at the acts ready to steal the show….

ANA POPOVIC

Ana Popovic, the blues and rock guitarist and singer who is one of the world’s most respected players, has been moving West all her life.

She fell in love with American blues as a kid, starting back home in Belgrade, Serbia during the fall of Communism, then moved to the Netherlands to study at the conservatory of jazz and world-music.

She lived in Amsterdam for over ten years, and then in a singleminded pursuit of her art and career, she relocated to Memphis, TN to record and work with Southern musicians. Finally, two years ago, she moved her family to Los Angeles, California where she now lives.

Ana has recorded nine studio albums and been nominated for six Blues Music Awards, and has appeared on the covers of Vintage Guitar and Guitar Player magazines. Her albums ‘Can You Stand The Heat’ and ‘Unconditional’ were USA Today Picks-Of-TheWeek and featured on NPR Weekend Edition, who praised her “Fiery technique on the Stratocaster”. Nearly all of Ana’s albums reached the top of the Billboard Blues Charts. She and her six-piece band have toured tirelessly, sharing stages with B.B. King, Buddy 58

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Guy, Jeff Beck, Joe Bonamassa and many others.

Ana will release ‘Like It On Top,’ a concept album in which she explores ten different aspects of women’s empowerment on ten new songs. Recorded in Nashville, TN., and produced by four-time Grammy winner Keb’ Mo’, the blues influenced album features guest appearances from Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Robben Ford and Keb’ Mo,’ and will be released worldwide September 14.

Its ten songs cover topics that are partly autobiographical and partly broader statements aimed at every women - desire and fantasy, feeling empowered about your craft, confronting dominant macho male attitudes, escaping an abusive marriage, and how to have a strong man as your partner.

But it also credits the men who are motivated and enlightened enough to support women in their quest to be their best versions of themselves. The first single, “Like It On Top,” emphasises that behind every strong, successful woman stands the man that understands the importance of having women be leaders in society.

And the final track, the gentle “Honey I’m Home,” gives a shoutout to an ever-growing number of families in which men give up their careers to support a woman’s career.

Website: www.anapopovic.com

OHLALA Spotlight

LIKWID Likwid is one of Bahrain’s most unique and popular alternative bands. The band had earned a reputation of supreme musicianship on stage and selling-out venues like no other band. The members have been playing together under various formations for more than 15 years. Likwid is known to perform numerous styles of music including, but not limited to, Rock, Smooth Jazz, Blues, Reggae, Funk, and Latin. It is very rare to see the influences of Bob Marley, The Police, Santana, Pink Floyd, Fourplay, and Steely Dan sparking out of one band. That’s what Likwid is all about: a captivating and entertaining band that doesn’t believe in genres, just good music. In 2016, the band has released their official critically acclaimed debut self-titled EP. THE MEMBERS OF LIKWID: Ahmed Alqasim (AQ) | Bass Guitars, Lead Vocal One of the most active and popular musicians in Bahrain. In addition to being known as a terrific bass guitar player, he is also a talented songwriter and a powerful vocalist in his own right. AQ also has his own successful jazz show, “AQ’s Jazz Experience”.

Khalid Alshamlan | Piano, Keyboards, Backing Vocals One of Bahrain’s best pianists and composers with a long spectrum of styles and influences, from the modern heavy metal rock to classical and jazz. Also a member of internationallyrecognized Bahraini progressive rock band, Osiris.

Ahmed Abdulaziz | Electric Guitars, Backing Vocals A shredding player who inspired a generation of Bahraini guitarists. With a colorful range of techniques rooted from rock, blues, jazz & latin, he helped introduce western guitar to the Arab music scene through collaborations with Arab superstars including Ali Bahar, Abdulmajeed Abdulla and others.

Abdulrahman Malallah | Drums, Percussions One of the best known full-time musicians in Bahrain and the region who was selected by “Vater Percussions” as an official Vater artist. Also a favorite collaborator for a number of Arab superstars including Rashid Al Majed, Rabeh Saqer and many others.

Website: www.likwidband.com

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OHLALA Spotlight

HAVANEROS BAND

A group of seven Bahraini local musicians and one habanera performing live Latin jazz music, salsa, bachata and more. The band started it’s career in 2004 on behalf of a Latin Jazz band called Havana, consisting of seven members all of Bahraini origin. The forte of this band has been Latin music. In 2009, the name was changed to Havaneros with a new vision / innovation to bring forth a new blend of Latin music to the world.

Website: www.facebook.com/pg/BAHRAIN-HAVANEROSBAND

ALA GHAWAS

Bahrain’s very own Ala Ghawas is an independent singersongwriter, musician and record producer considered by many as one of Bahrain’s most important artists of his generation.

Drawing inspirations from poets and song-writing masters ‘Jackson Browne’ and ‘Bob Dylan’ along with his idols ‘Jeff Buckley’ and ‘Damien Rice’, Ghawas produced a compelling body of work that illustrates the influences of his life in the form of songs which helped him release 7 albums during the span of 10 years. Ghawas recorded and released his debut EP, “Hums”, in 2007 during his time in Boston as a Fulbright Scholar. Followed by another two critically acclaimed EPs, “Whispers” in 2008 and “Screams” in 2009, which made Ghawas a local indie hero.

Starting 2011, Ghawas spent almost three years writing songs for his debut LP, “Armor”, and partnered with the Bahraini alternative band, ‘Likwid’, for the record. The album was released in November 2013 and featured his most successful single to 60

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date, “Elsewhere”. After the release of Armor, the partnership between Ghawas and Likwid took more adventurous grounds with a successful series of live performances to promote the album in Bahrain, Dubai and Cairo. In 2017, Ghawas produced and released his 7th long-awaited record “Tryst”. The album featured a constellation of artists from the Bahraini independent music scene. “Tryst” is highly regarded as Ghawas’ career-defining and most self-assured record to date. Ghawas is expected to tour the Middle East and Europe in 2018 and 2019 to support the release of “Tryst”, covering Manama, Dubai, Kuwait, Amman, Beirut, Berlin & Manchester. ~ By Victor Alfredo Website: www.alaghawas.com

SWING NINJAS

The Swing Ninjas love to play music. They tour all year round at all types of parties and events with their blend of original music and classic swing tunes.

Always professional, they are open to any request to make the perfect experience - whether that’s playing intimately for a small private event, or playing a large festival or club / dance night.

The classic Swing Ninjas Trio – big sound, able to travel worldwide at a minute’s notice. Happy to play to thousands on a main stage, or walk around serenading table to table at an intimate dinner party.

The Swing Ninjas Quartet (or Quintet) – this is the main performing ensemble of the Swing Ninjas. The depth of the double bass, the 2 horns getting your feet tapping and guitar keeping the rhythm going. Adding drums for the 5th member, transforms this go-anywhere ensemble into the ultimate dance band. The 4-part vocal harmonies are nothing short of liquid velvet.

The Swing Ninjas Sextet is a swing orchestra with baritone sax, drums and backing singers added to the normal Quartet. A big sound with a big swing!

The Swing Ninjas Sextet with the Speakeasy Three (9 piece band) – a massive 9-piece band with the beautiful Speakeasy Three girls joining the the Swing Ninjas Sextet, backing up the Ninjas and making everyone swoon. A swing orchestra that is unrivalled in energy and show. A big luscious sound.

Website: www.theswingninjas.co.uk www.ohlala-magazine.com

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OHLALA Spotlight

THE KIFFNESS

The Kiffness is a live electronic act from Cape Town, South Africa. The project was founded by David Scott in 2011. The Kiffness makes jazzy, groovy and uplifting house music and is fast becoming one of South Africa’s favourite live electronic acts. From the beginning of 2013, founder and brainchild David Scott has had great success in the South African music industry, racking up a total of three SAMA nominations and 10 singles playlisted across national radio stations – all of which have reached top 10 status in the top 40 charts.

Dave Scott founded the project in early 2011 when he arrived in Cape Town to pursue a career in music. During his studies at Rhodes University Dave played a handful of instruments in multiple bands while also DJing at a couple nightclubs. Upon arriving in Cape Town he was ready to use his experience in both live & electronic forms of music and fuse them to form a live electronic act.

From it’s relatively humble beginnings, Dave’s made his way from bedroom producer to building his own studio & becoming one of South Africa’s most reputable producers. He has collaborated with some of South Africa’s leading artists including Tresor, Shortstraw, Moonchild, Samuel Miller & Mathew Gold. With The Kiffness’ success on radio the project has gained major momentum and the group has had the opportunity of playing headlining slots at some of South Africa’s most reputable festivals such as Rocking the Daisies, Splashy Fen & Park Acoustics 62

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to name a few. They’ve also played international shows in the Seychelles, Lesotho, Swaziland (Bushfire), Zimbabwe (Vic Falls Carnival) & Vietnam.

Saxophone & synth extraordinaire Raiven Hansmann joined Dave for live shows in early 2017. Before joining forces with Dave on stage, Raiven had played a major role behind the scenes in co-writing a couple of The Kiffness’ tracks. Friend & collaborator Mathew Gold has also joins the band in the live format for a couple of shows, adding a 3rd dynamic to the live shows.

What sets The Kiffness apart from most electronic acts is their tangible instrumental talent. What’s more is that they are great performers, so crowds can expect nothing short of a huge vibe.

Website: www.thekiffness.com

INDIAN OCEAN

Indian Ocean, the album, was recorded in Calcutta and, despite the crummy mikes and sozzled sound recordist, the band was on a high. They had recorded an original album, almost entirely instrumental, rare outside the world of Indian classical music. The future looked boundless; anything was possible.

But, much to the band’s frustration, the album took a year to get released. But when it did come out, it sold over 40,000 copies within a year of its release – at that time, the highest selling record by any Indian band ever.

However, this had no immediate results – in concerts, contracts or money or anything.

In 1994, drummer Shaleen left the band. Amit Kilam, barely out of his teens and, in fact, still taking his college exams, took his place.

This has been the line-up since then: Susmit, Asheem, Rahul and Amit.

Money was tight and there weren’t many opportunities to play. But somehow the band believed in themselves and in their music. They kept at it – composing, practicing, playing for themselves, getting better, tighter, more together.

Vocals began to be used more and more, and they brought a new dimension to the sound.

Susmit and Asheem left their jobs to be in the band full-time, and kept at it even after they had kids to support. Rahul and Amit did not have salaried jobs either. All four kept afloat by taking on various musical assignments – odd jobs composing music for serials, ads and documentaries.

New Year’s Day 1997. The SAHMAT concert at Mandi House, Delhi. After waiting seven hours to get on stage, Indian Ocean played an inspired concert that had the crowd rising to its feet, roaring for more. Quite fortuitously, the band noticed a DAT recorder, bought a tape and recorded the concert. True to their unfailing lack of vision, no music company wanted to release a live album of an Indian band, so a label called Independent Music was formed to release this. Desert Rain was a landmark album for its time and today, almost a decade later, still continues to sell (much to the band’s surprise and pleasure, in 2006, it was no. 2 on the iTunes UK world music charts!).

First, the gigs began to fall into place – Delhi, of course, but also Ahmedabad, Calcutta and Mumbai. Money began to trickle in.

More importantly, new material became more honed, and the playing tightened with every show.

Times Music signed on Indian Ocean in 1998 and, the next year, the band went to Mumbai to record a new album. Recorded in the hi-tech studio Western Outdoor, and released in March 2000, Kandisa went on to acquire cult status, becoming one of the most important, best-loved albums of contemporary Indian music.

Indian Ocean’s fourth album, Jhini, was released in 2003, along

with the band’s first music video for the title track, as they went international and started touring the world. Tragically though, Indian Ocean lost one of their founder members in December 2009 after Asheem suffered a massive heart attack.

The band continues to perform and compose, and have taken the help of several friends and musicians to fill in for Asheem.

It seems quite probable that the sound of the band shall change with the departure of Asheem, but it is impossible to predict what direction the band will go in. So the band goes on, hoping to continue making good music!

Website: www.indianoceanmusic.com/ www.ohlala-magazine.com

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TATIANA EVA-MARIE AND THE AVALON JAZZ BAND

Avalon Jazz Band is the ambassador of vocal French swing in the United States and the world. Created in New York in 2012, the band has performed at the most renowned venues in the city (Summerstage, Midsummer Night Swing Lincoln Center, Winter JazzFest, New York Hot Jazz Festival, JALC, The Iridium, The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Joe’s Pub, The Carlyle, The Rainbow Roo), sharing the stage with the likes of Norah Jones, Vince Giordano & the Nighthawks, Catherine Russell, Harry Connick Jr., Aurora Nealand, Stéphane Wrembel, and touring internationally (UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, India, Puerto Rico, Fiji).

The musical style presented by Avalon Jazz Band is inspired by the kind of jazz played in Paris in the 1930s and 40s, especially

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by the Hot Club de France, founded by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli, whose repertoire consisted of original music and jazz standards. This style of hot jazz then became what we now know as « Gypsy jazz » or « Jazz Manouche », with its technical bravadoes and virtuoso skills The delicate voice and swing phrasing of Tatiana Eva-Marie brings the Zazou element to the mix: an ingenuous and mischievous joie-de-vivre, which she incarnates to perfection.

The Zazous were young Parisians obsessed with American swing: their way of rebelling against the war was through dance and jazz (a forbidden music during the German occupation), displaying a very insolent kind of joy, which caused them to be marginalized and persecuted.

The influence of the Russian aristocracy’s diaspora to France after the Russian Revolution and of the Jews fleeing Eastern Europe right before WWII, can be felt in the French compositions of time. This element is also present in the music of Avalon Jazz Band, with a sound palette of Gypsy, Klezmer and Balkan inspiration.

The vocal repertoire of Avalon Jazz Band comprises jazz standards and French songs made popular by Yves Montand, Jean Sablon, Juliette Gréco and Charles Trenet, among others.

The instrumental repertoire comprises original compositions and music by Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli.

Website: www.avalonjazzband.com

OHLALA Spotlight CUT CAPERS

Cut Capers is an eight-piece band that formed in Bristol in late 2011, with a style based in hip-hop, swing, ska and roots reggae. They have burst onto the UK circuit, playing gigs and festivals up and down the country with their high energy shows. Combining tight grooves and a big sound featuring UK and Spanish MCs, soulful female vocals and a dynamic 3-piece brass section, Cut Capers bring the party to crowds all over, looking to jump up and down in a frenzy to a fresh new sound, which channels elements of all the great ska, swing and hiphop. Having shared stages with Jimmy Cliff, Jerry Dammers, Neville Staple, Rodney P, Lee “Scratch” Perry, The Skints, and since their debut release “The Pinstripe EP” was released in 2012, these Bristolians have released a string of singles leading up to the release of their debut album in Spring 2016. After an incredible 2015 performing at UK festivals including Glastonbury, Secret Garden Party, Boomtown Fair, and shows in Belgium, France, Holland and Ireland, Bristol’s finest are back in 2016 to promote the release of their debut full length LP Say What! With their high energy 8 piece blend of Swing, Hiphop, Ska and everything in between, Cut Capers will have you bouncing and head nodding the night away! “Inspirational” – Jimmy Cliff ”.

Website: www.cutcapers.com

ALL DAY • FOOD & BEVERAGE ALL DAY • ALL-DAY MARKET ALL DAY • KIDS ZONE & FAMILY AREA 12:30PM – 1:30PM • AVALON JAZZ BAND 1:45PM – 2:30PM • ALA GHAWAS 2:45PM – 3:30PM • HAVANEROS 3:45PM – 4:45PM • INDIAN OCEAN 5:00PM – 5:45PM • LIKWID 6:00PM – 7:00PM • SWING NINJAS 7:15PM –8:15PM • ANA POPOVIC 8:30PM – 9:30PM • THE CUT CAPERS 9:45PM – 10:45PM • THE KIFFNESS

GO: Bahrain Jazz Festival 2018 takes place on October 26. Visit www. jazzfestbahrain.com, like their page on facebook: www. facebook.com/bahrainjazzfest/ and follow them on instagram: @bahrainjazzfest for where to buy tickets and more information.

EVENT PARTNERS BNP PARIBAS BAHRAIN EDB BAHRAIN TOURISM AND EXHIBITIONS AUTHORITY GO GOSAIBI TRAVEL WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA AL OSRA BATELCO ROOM 2 ROCK AGGREKO ACE INSURANCE PICO AVL SYSKODE TECHNOLOGIES DIGITAL ARTS BWALLET FACT MAGAZINE OHLALA GMI

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OHLALA Spotlight

FALL WINTER 2018 It’s great to reminisce about good

memories ... associated of course with fashion. The iconic retro style served in a modern way surprises with its freshness in the latest autumn collection from ORSAY. Classic designs side by side with black and grey colours, highlighted with pink fur that’s it! Red or green tartan celebrates its spectacular comeback in the company of belts with slogans and a double-breasted jacket. It is a real clash of the British style with street style. Colourful, floral vintage patterns flirt shamelessly with urban style.

They just cannot imagine this season without tux belts, zippers and a plush jacket. Effective, cowboy accessories, metal details and black leather conquer the catwalks ... and the hearts of women.

This is how the Wild West looks like in a beautiful, ladies’ version! #Orsay #FashionInspiration @Orsay

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VALENTINO PRE-FALL 2018 NOVELTY IS WHAT ONE IS NOT FAMILIAR WITH. NOVELTY IS THE PAST, IF DISCOVERED TO REMAIN IN PRESENT TIMES. THE GAZE TRACES THE PATH; THE EYE DETECTS AND CONNECTS.

VERY VALENTINO. GLAMOUR. INDIVIDUALISM. HEDONISM. THE VALUES THAT HAVE DEFINED A DECISIVE MOMENT OF THE MAISON, TODAY. DECIPHERING THE COMBINATION TO PICTURE MODERN TIMES. AN EXPLORATION OF THE ICONOGRAPHIES OF THE MAISON’S ARCHIVE: THE TIGER FROM 1967, THE DRAGON FROM 1968, THE SNAKE FROM 1971.

AN EXTRAVAGANT BESTIARY: A CHANGE IN PERSPECTIVE CADENCED BY POIS, ENLIGHTENED BY CRYSTALS. THE PERSONALITY OF THE LOOKS AS AN AFFIRMATION OF ONESELF. CLUBBING AS A FRAME. PRESENT GENRES IN THE MIX, IN THE SPONTANEOUS CONVERSION OF RULES. FURS AND TRACKSUITS, DRESSES AND BOOTS, THE NONCHALANT BALLGOWN. EMBROIDERIES AND LOGOS MARK THE DOWN JACKETS CREATED IN COLLABORATION WITH MONCLER. THE GLIMMER AND THE VOLANT. ROUCHES ON SPORTSWEAR AND PATENT LEATHER FOR THE T-SHIRTS. LACE ON SWEATERS. BLACK THAT OVERFLOWS AND SHOTS OF DECISIVE COLOURS. FASHION AS A PERSONAL AND LIBERATING PLEASURE, THAT GLIMMERS WHILE IT SEIZES THE MOMENT. BLENDING TO SURPRISE AND TO AMUSE. SPONTANEOUS GLAMOUR: PRESENCE IN THE MOMENT, NOT AN ESCAPE FROM REALITY.

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SEPTEMBER DINING Our round up of the best chic eats venues Art Rotana

Indulge in a wonderful variety of sumptuous cuisines at ART Rotana featuring eight spectacular outlets ranging from authentic Italian to Asian specialties. Guests are guaranteed a memorable dining experience on each visit to this esteemed hotel.

Call 16 000 111

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Heads up, shoulders back, - ready for school? Feast on homemade delicacies prepared by Executive Chef Hyung Gyu Kim to ‘whet the appetite’ for a successful school year. Your little ones will adore the carnival ambiance with photo-booth, face painting, stilt walkers, balloon artists and goody giveaways every Friday throughout September between 1pm and 4pm.

Call 17 115 500

Downtown Rotana

Enjoy Friday Brunch at Downtown Rotana! Flavours on 2 offers you an array of International and local dishes. Exciting live cooking stations dedicated to making your food the way you like and live performances to keep you entertained. The fun doesn’t stop there as you can also enjoy free pool access.

Call 13 119 999

Westin City Centre Bahrain

Furn Bakery: Enjoy a selection of delicious cakes crafted by skilled culinary hands all day at Furn Bakery. There’s magical milkshakes to enjoy in the unique ambience of the Rotunda as well as the specials on the Furn Bakery display.

Call 17 171 000

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Join The Ritz-Carlton on the 7th September as they take their famous Friday Brunch to new heights with a delicious gastronomic journey highlighted by theirspecialised Ritz-Carlton chefs. A lavish yet more personalised experience awaits at this culinary extravaganza featuring international dishes at La Med, Italian classics at Primavera, exotic Indian fares at Nirvana and prime steaks and seafood at Plums between 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Call 17 586 499 78

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CHIC Eats

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Have you popped into Sherlocks yet and seen its amazing new look? It is easy to see why it is presented as Bahrain’s best pub, especially with its fabulous recent upgrade! Retaining the honoured Old-English feel, Sherlock Holmes presents a revitalised and cozy booth seating with new floorings and lightings. It’d be rude not to go!

Call 17 713 000

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Monday Seafood Night - The freshest catch of the day! Experience a unique medley of super succulent seafood delicacies and taste the freshest catch every Monday on Seafood Night at Al Murjan Ballroom. What makes it an ideal night out for seafood lovers? The best selection of popular and traditional seafood dishes, of course! On the buffet table is a vast range of aquatic delicacies, from sushi, sashimi, seafood dim sum, tempura, oysters, slipper lobster and tiger prawns to popular fish such as grouper and red snapper. The talented team of chefs will prepare your favourite catch, just the way you like it. Seafood Night is priced at BD24 net and BD29 net per person including unlimited selected vino, hops and soft drinks.

Every Monday from 7pm to 11pm.

Call 17 460 017

Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain

Bahrain’s Sweetest Brunch: Discover it for yourself at Baharat and be prepared to indulge in a sensorial and savoury experience including soft drinks and water, or select a package including selected free flow beverages.

Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons. Book for 10+ people and receive a 20% discount. Every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Call 17 171 000

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

La Mosaique at The Crowne Plaza Bahrain is an international inspired restaurant, hosting a large selection of theme nights, mostly every evening of the week. Situated in the heart of Manama it is ideally located where you can enjoy lunch and breakfast daily. Serving the great flavours and cuisines of the world. Indulge in a wide selection of dishes ranging from different delectable dishes appealing to all tastes.

Call 17 531 122

Sheraton

Get yourselves down to Soie Restaurant and enjoy their Asian Street Food Buffet. They’ve recently launched their Chinese and Malaysian dishes at their dinner buffet at Soie which is truly a gastronomic experience. Pricing includes welcome refreshment and soft beverages. You can also try out their new a la carte menu that will have you impressing all of your friends in beautiful surroundings.

Call 17 533 533

Oktoberfest celebrations start this month at Tapas from the 22nd of September until the 7th of October. Sofitel Bahrain brings home one of the biggest Volksfest, celebrating all things German with a selection of traditional Deutsch Essen gastronomy and beer. Complemented with live entertainment courtesy of the Cuban band, Timeless, backed with glamorous dancers and lots of hidden surprises.

Call 17 636 363

The Royal Golf Club

The Royal Golf Club know how to cater to the masses with their Thursday night Brunch. Diners can enjoy a fabulous array of tasty dishes delivered freshly cooked to their table while enjoying spectacular golf course views and a live entertainment by Thu Le. Thursday Night brunch is available in the award-winning Links restaurant every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm.

Also, they have recently launched a new menu incorporating over 20 new meals for you to indulge in - all day, every day.

Call 17 751 262.

InterContinental Regency Bahrain

At Legendz, their award winning steakhouse, they share our passion for prime meat cuts, fine grape and the art of cooking. Family-friendly and professional service complements the stylish, contemporary setting. It is one of the best venues in Manama for family gatherings or romantic evenings with your loved ones. Indulge in an impressive array of premium cuts, grills and signature dishes cooked to perfection!

Call 17 227 777

Reef Resort, Bahrain

Chocolaterie in the Reef Resort Lobby, serves an array of signature teas, coffees, pastries, and delectable hand-made chocolates. The stylish white and chocolate interior and panoramic harbour views make Chocolaterie the perfect place for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Enjoy a coffee and cake special daily from 4pm to 6pm.

Call 13 110 110

“There is no love sincerer than the love of food.”

- George Bernard Shaw www.ohlala-magazine.com

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OHLALA Spotlight

S E P T AEROUND M UPB OFEFANTASTIC R 2HAPPENINGS 0 1 8AT THISP PLUSH R ORESORT M OHOTEL.T I O N S AL HADIQA POOL AND BEACH

Inspired by Bahrain’s buzzing art, Jumeirah Royal Saray proposes upscale and trendy restaurants with contemporary menus, mixed drinks, world-class coffee made by Colombian baristas and a unique experience by the private beach and Al Hadiqa’s pool cabanas.

Venture beyond the walls of The Palm Lounge and you will find yourself in Al Hadiqa, serving the outdoor area.

Whether you want to relax by the poolside in one of our luxurious cabanas or explore the beach, Al Hadiqa will cater to your every need.

Serving thirst quenchers, refreshing cocktails, and a variety of other exclusive bites, treats and meals from sunrise to sunset, Al Hadiqa will prove to be a veritable garden of paradise for you to relax and re-energise.

OPENING HOURS 7/7: Daily: 8:00 a.m.- 12:00 a.m.

THE PALM LOUNGE

Experience a space that spills over with comfort, luxury and entertainment, with breathtaking views overlooking the turquoise blue waters of the Arabian Gulf - The Palm Lounge boasts an impressive space where big-city elegance meets luxury vacation resort.

Specifically designed as a dynamic, social space for work, play and entertainment, The Palm Lounge is an experience you can share together with friends or on your own, whether you’re looking to have breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, Brunch, drinks or a work meeting that takes things to a whole new level.

They aim to bring you tastes and experiences from around the globe, as well as those that originated and were cultivated on our very doorstep through a contemporary menu with a variety of dishes to suit any occasion.

In addition to their core menu, their classically trained pastry chef will be hand-crafting delicate and delectable chocolates and pastries for you.

You can enjoy as well, a variety of Shisha flavours available daily in their outdoor areas.

OPENING HOURS 7/7: Breakfast: 7:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.

Lunch: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon Tea: 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Dinner 7:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

FRIDAY JAZZ BRUNCH

Every Friday at the Palm Lounge, they offer vibrant flavours in the lavish Jazz Brunch buffet where their talented chefs showcase a variety of international cuisine, a number of live stations and a large selection of cocktails.

This delicate experience is accompanied by a fivepiece Jazz band which creates a dazzling ambiance for you to enjoy the Friday Jazz Brunch.

Date: Every Friday Location: at The Palm Lounge Time: 1:00pm – 5:00pm Price: 25 BHD ++ per person for the full brunch buffet 80

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LIVE BBQ

Unwind with friends and family and indulge in a unique culinary experience by the pool with a wide selection of authentic dishes featuring their Live DJ. Date: Every Saturday Location: at Al Hadiqa Pool and Beach Time: 1:00pm – 6:00pm Price: Hotel guests have complimentary access with A la carte menu for the BBQ. For walk-in guests 30 BHD ++ per person. This will include a complimentary welcome beverage and full access to the pool and beach.

Children below 12 are priced at 50% for entrance. Kids a la carte menu is also available.

PLAY RESTAURANT spread, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages.

35 BHD ++ per person for the full brunch buffet spread, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages as well as selected alcoholic beverages.

Children below 12 are priced at 50%

BUSINESS LUNCH: EAST MEETS WEST

Take your business lunch to the next level of excellence at The Palm Lounge.

Mix and match from your choice of Western & Oriental cuisines and enjoy delicious seasonal and locally sourced produce.

Date: Every week from Sunday to Thursday Location: at The Palm Lounge Time: 12:00pm – 2:30pm Price: 2 courses (40 minutes, BHD 11++) or 3 courses (60 minutes, BHD 14++).

PLAY Restaurant has created an atmosphere of effortless indulgence; a sanctuary for everyone who approaches life in a more playful way. The PLAY concept has been carefully curated to unlock new possibilities in culinary pleasure, allowing guests to relax, socialize, and celebrate in an electric environment that stimulates the senses. Every Wednesday, PLAY organizes a Late Brunch with live music, Ladies’ Night on Monday and “PLAY BY DAY” every Saturday from 2pm till dark.

OPENING HOURS 7/7: Lunch: From 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Dinner: Saturday to Tuesday 7:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Wednesday to Friday 7:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

For more information or reservations please call 7770 7070 @jumeirahroyalsaray

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CHIC Eats

FUSION OF Flavours

At the heart of Manama lies SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL, the brainchild to thank behind SOIE BAHRAIN.

not have known that they were buffet dishes. In addition the thoughtful menu choices elevate the level of the buffet experience because they are neither predictable or staid. Malaysian Mutton Curry, Black Bean Tofu, Sambal Prawns and Egg Adorned Nasi Goreng make it impossible not to over indulge and you may not be able to stop oneself from sampling more, especially the Kung Pao Beef and Spicy Fried Chicken. Each of the dishes offer complex profiles and stimulate the palate in a variety of ways.

Soie also offers the à la carte menu for diners who may wish to narrow their selections or experiment with slightly less familiar dishes. The Shrimp Laksa and Chicken Wonton Soup made us yearn for more as the umami effect kicked in. Appetisers

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fter unleashing their recent ChineseMalaysian à la carte menu and unrivalled buffet we made a reservation instantly and ventured towards our beloved capital.

As we meandered towards the impressive entrance of Soie, along a corridor lined with highly polished black marble, the inviting aromas of lemongrass, ginger and soy encouraged us to quicken our pace just a little. The floor-to-ceiling polished wooden doors give the impression of entering a lavish oriental palace and we were keen to discover what was hidden behind them. The staging and décor at Soie is the epitome of resplendent oriental decadence.

Dark wood, shuttered windows, exquisitely decorated fans and Chinese lanterns suspended from the high ceilings combined with draped fabrics and muted lighting very much form part of the dining experience. The central part of the seating area is housed within a vast open pagoda and is simply stunning.

The restaurant offers both a buffet style selection of authentic Chinese and Malaysian dishes as well as new mouthwatering à la carte additions. The platters of hors d’oeuvres tantalise the senses not just the taste buds with crispy, vegetable spring rolls, bounteous amounts of sushi and sashimi and delicate yet decadent salads freshly prepared and regularly replenished.

Each dish is garnished with elegantly carved vegetables amidst Chinese artwork and paper umbrellas providing a fitting backdrop for the lavish dishes. You may wish to sample one of the hearty soups simmering in silver cauldrons… The Hot and Sour Soup with Chicken is an absolute must!

Following the starters we both agreed that had we not visited each station ourselves to make our selections we would

“In addition the thoughtful menu choices elevate the level of the buffet experience because they are neither predictable or staid.” www.ohlala-magazine.com

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CHIC Eats such as Malaysian Spicy Squid and a choice of Satay skewers will begin to satisfy your cravings. Each dish is presented with elegant simplicity and hosts are knowledgeable regarding the flavour profiles and origin of each dish. Traditional familiarity such as Rendang Beef and Seafood Curry is offset by options such as Adabi Grilled Fish, Buttered Mango Crispy Chicken, Kung Pao Sizzling Beef and Duck with Black Fungus and Pickled Cabbage. In addition, vegetarians can combine dishes with real ‘zing’ such as Sambal Kangkong or Turmeric Powder fried vegetables with one of the generous noodle and rice dishes. The menu has been designed to cater for all manner of tastes and levels of experience with oriental cuisine providing both a broad range of dishes which are deeply rooted in classical Chinese and Malaysian techniques.

“Each dish is presented with elegant simplicity and hosts are knowledgeable regarding the flavour profiles and origin of each dish.”

Chinese culture dictates that sweet courses are intermingled with savoury further heightening the sense of umami. My companion and I decided to break with Chinese tradition on this occasion and savour dessert at the end of the meal. Sumptuous banana fritters served with ice cream began to melt, temptingly, as it is touched the warm bananas offered alongside Sago Pudding, delicate coconut crepes and Deep Fried ice cream. Once again, each of these offerings illustrate the technical competence of the Chefs here at Soie but also the desire to encapsulate each and every influence and flavour found in the Far East.

Whether you opt for the Buffet Menu which is served every Thursday and Friday between 7.00pm and 11.30pm or indeed the à la carte menu, I can guarantee that you will leave Soie already planning your next visit. The unwaveringly sleek service and flawless food combined with the stunning setting within Sheraton Bahrain Hotel makes Soie an absolute must whatever the occasion. @soie.bahrain / @sheratonbahrain www.ohlala-magazine.com

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CHIC Eats

BALTHAZAR

X FLOWERBX

Is a trip to London even complete without an afternoon tea experience? And what if we told you that it doesn’t have to be a stuffy affair in a hotel somewhere – instead, just off the bustling Covent Garden square, you’ll enter a venue that blends edgy and elegance, perfectly. Welcome to BALTHAZAR Restaurant…

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erving up a menu of well-prepared French brasserie food, Balthazar Restaurant still remains a hidden gem for many, and a secret escape for those who have stumbled upon it by accident or guests who have become regular visitors. Either way, it’s far from the ostentatious 5-star hotels where afternoon tea is a ceremonial activity, this place is all about fun, laughter, casual, friendly service and, of course, eating and drinking to your heart’s content. It’s a space that allows solo diners, groups of friends, and families to enjoy an ambience that is somewhat flawlessly unrefined and charming with bistro sophistication and laid back vibes all around.

Its creative afternoon teas is one of Balthazar’s pinnacles, and their new effort with Flowerbx, the online flower delivery service that has taken the UK fashion industry by storm, is nothing short of insta-worthy. The floral inspired afternoon tea is every food blogger’s dream and a match made in heaven between Balthazar’s Head Pastry Chef Régis Beauregard’s serious culinary skills and Flowerbx CEO Whitney Bromberg Hawkings’ floral expertise.

Let’s be honest – who doesn’t want to eat lush cakes and pastries that are both pretty and tasty? We’re sold!

To start, a selection of traditional, freshly prepared finger sandwiches are served, including cucumber, mint and homemade hummus; smoked salmon and lemon crème fraîche; and lobster prawn roll (which was the highlight of them all – DELISH). Buttermilk scones with Devonshire clotted cream and homemade strawberry preserve will have you so excited that you won’t know whether to do cream first then jam, or the other way around.

We’re partial to a big dollop of cream and an equally generous spread of jam – mouthwatering to say the least.

Alongside these, you’ll fine a tray of floral sweet treats to follow.

There was a pescatarian in our group, and we were happy to see that their dietary needs were met. We advise to book ahead and let the kitchen know of any food allergies or intolerances – the restaurant is more than accommodating.

Back to the good stuff. Diners can enjoy cakes in the shape of colourful seasonal blooms, in beautiful Flowerbx hues: Sky Blue Hydrangea, Violacious Tulips, Petal White Anemone, Sunburst Dahlia, and the newly introduced, deep red Balthazar Rose, specially created to celebrate this exciting collaboration.

Each Flowerbx inspired cake has been expertly paired with flavours to complement both the flower and the hue.

These include Apple and Blackberry Tulip, Coconut and Yuzu Hydrangea, Salted Caramel Anemone, Lemon and Blueberry Dahlia (our favourite) and the Balthazar Raspberry Rose. Of course, as expected, these treats are S.W.E.E.T and moreish and absolutely delightful. Tip: pace yourself and sip your tea with the cakes – it’s what a true Brit would do!

Talking of tea, you have the choice of a good variety of fragrant and traditional teas to savour alongside the main event. There’s Earl Grey, Darjeeling, English Breakfast, Chai, Assam, Jasmine, Sencha, Chamomile, Fresh Mint and Ginger. Something for both black tea and green tea fans.

On the other hand, if you’re thinking of something a little more cheeky for the afternoon tea, opt for the Flower Fizz cocktail, a delicious concoction of pink peppercorn gin, cocchi rose, pinky vodka and crushed violet petals, created by Balthazar’s Head Bartender and industry great, Brian Silva. A mocktail version is also available!

With a curated selection of cakes that represent the season’s most exquisite flowers, this collaboration is as beautiful as it is delicious and Balthazar has struck gold with another fabulous afternoon tea experience that visitors in London should definitely put on their to-do – or shall we say to-eat – list.

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BALTHAZAR X FLOWERBX AFTERNOON TEA IS SERVED FROM 3PM TO 5.30PM, MONDAY TO FRIDAY; 3PM TO 5PM ON SATURDAY; AND 3PM TO 6.30PM ON SUNDAY (3PM TO 5PM MONDAY TO SUNDAY IN DECEMBER). PRICES START FROM £29.95 PER PERSON. TO BOOK, PHONE +44 20 3301 1155 OR EMAIL RESERVATIONS@BALTHAZARLONDON.COM. INSTAGRAM: @BALTHAZARLDN AND @ THEFLOWERBX

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AWARD WINNING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

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khalifashaheen

www.khalifashaheen.com

+973 17 593993

WORLD PREMIERE

PORSCHE PRESENTS THE NEW MACAN W I T H F U L L C O N N E C T I V I T Y, N E W D E S I G N ELEMENTS AND EXTENDED EQUIPMENT FOR THE SUCCESS MODEL. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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DIVA DRIVES Preview

P

orsche has unveiled the new version of its compact SUV. The Macan has been a great success since its launch in 2014, and has now been enhanced in terms of design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics, resulting in the model remaining as the sporty flagship in its segment. Staying true to the Porsche design DNA, the new Macan features a three-dimensional LED tail light strip and LED headlights as standard. The most striking innovations inside the vehicle include the 11-inch touchscreen of the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), re-designed and re-positioned air vents and the GT sports steering wheel familiar from the 911. The PCM also enables access to new digital functions, such as intelligent voice control. The vehicle’s range of comfort equipment has also been expanded to include an ioniser and windscreen heating.

LED HEADLIGHTS AND NEW TAIL LIGHT STRIP AS STANDARD The new Macan now has an even sportier and modern appearance, thanks to a number of changes to the exterior. Numerous details reflect the DNA of the iconic 911 and the 918 Spyder sports cars, including headlights featuring LED technology as standard. The Macan’s high-quality lighting system which features modules with a three-dimensional design can be further optimised if desired with the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus 90

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(PDLS) that adaptively controls light distribution. The front end of the Macan has also been meticulously re-worked, with it now appearing wider, while the comprehensive overhaul at the rear builds on the sleek design of the previous model. The three-part, three-dimensional LED light strip at the rear represents another typical Porsche design feature. The four-point design of the brake lights also reflects the brand’s identity.

NEW OPTIONS: GT SPORTS STEERING WHEEL AND IONISER The new Macan’s link to the 911 is further emphasised in the interior of the model with the optional GT sports steering wheel. The mode switch plus Sport Response Button integrated into the steering wheel is also showcased in the compact SUV as part of the optional Sports Chrono Package. Porsche has extended the list of comfort options to include a heated windscreen and an ioniser to improve the air quality in the interior. New exterior colours such as “Miami Blue”, “Mamba Green Metallic” “Dolomite Silver Metallic” and “Crayon” combined with new interior packages ensure that the Macan is now more customisable than ever before.

11-INCH TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY AND FULL CONNECTIVITY Through the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM), the

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DIVA DRIVES Preview

Macan offers total connectivity and numerous digital functions. Above the typical Porsche rising centre console, a full-HD touchscreen enlarged from seven to eleven inches has been incorporated seamlessly into the newly designed instrument panel. Similar to the Panamera and Cayenne, the user interface on the infotainment system can be customised using predefined tiles. The air vents have also been re-designed and are now positioned below the central screen.

Each Macan is equipped with a Connect Plus module, making every vehicle fully networked as standard. Using the new Offroad Precision App, it is also possible to record and analyse off-road driving experiences in the model.

OPTIMISED CHASSIS WITH NEW TYRES AND WHEELS Thanks to its optimised chassis, the new Macan is able to consolidate its exceptional status as a sports car in the compact SUV segment. Finetuning of the chassis delivers enhanced neutrality while maintaining stability and improving comfort. Although unusual for the SUV segment, the Macan still features mixed tyres with different widths on the front and rear axles. As with Porsche sports cars, this arrangement enables the driver to take full advantage of the intelligent, all-wheel

drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) when it comes to driving dynamics. Newly developed tyres with improved performance characteristics enable even better lateral dynamics for enhanced driving pleasure, while the new 20 and 21-inch wheels also offer greater scope to customise the design.

A MODEL OF SUCCESS: MORE THAN 350,000 MACAN DELIVERIES SINCE 2014 The Macan is a genuine success story. The combination of typical Porsche performance on any terrain coupled with a high degree of everyday practicality impressed customers right from its debut. Since 2014, Porsche has delivered more than 350,000 units. With over 100,000 deliveries to-date, the model is especially popular in the Chinese market where Porsche unveiled the redesigned compact SUV. The version of the model presented in Shanghai will be offered exclusively in the Chinese market. A range of Macan derivatives will be launched for other regions in due course.

For more information please contact Porsche Centre Bahrain +973 1745 9911 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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MONDAY BLUES PRESENTS ‘MY WAY’ EXPERIENCE WITH JOHNNIE WALKER BLACK LABEL, HAZEL ROOFTOP LOUNGE

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MEDIA DINNER AT VIA BRASIL RESTAURANT, WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA

HANDS FREE SHOPPING LAUNCH, CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

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EID AL-HADA EVENT, SAAR MALL

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YA HALA RESTAURANT LAUNCH, RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS

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ANTONIO VALENTI

MISS Ohlala

AUTUMNAL

VIBES

MISS OHLALA SUGGESTS SOME IMPROVEMENTS THAT COULD BE MADE TO OUR SEASONAL BODY CLOCK AND WE’RE FEELING TOASTY. Am I smiling because I’m happy? Or am I happy because I’m smiling? In a psychological version of the chicken-or-egg game, researchers have long tried to understand the relationship between facial expressions and our emotions. It appears that the jury is out on this one as traffic seems to go both ways on this street - when we smile, our brains decide that means we must be happy, whether the smile is genuine or forced. It feels like I’m talking to my partner - I just cannot win.

People who frequently post selfies are often targets for accusations of narcissism and tastelessness. But what’s really going on here?

What is it about the self-portrait that’s so resonant as a form of communication? And why, psychologically, might someone feel so compelled to snap the perfect selfie that they’d risk their life, or the lives of others? This is at the very extreme dimension of taking a selfie amidst dangerous surroundings and/or activities, not the usual risk that I face of cracking the photographic lens when I fall privy to such a mundane act of vanity.

Some have argued that selfies can boost confidence by showing others how ‘awesome’ you are, and can preserve important memories. I’ll be honest and say that I have been guilty of posting to rival uploads of some of my friends. Who doesn’t want to see my beverage intake midweek on holiday? Mimosas anyone? SNAP! In this sense, the selfie is the perfect medium: it’s an easy way to offer proof of an exciting life, extraordinary talent and ability, unique experiences, personal beauty and attractiveness. Isn’t it?

I also find it important not only to ask why people post selfies, but also to ask why anyone bothers looking at them. We’ve all fallen guilty to berating that person who has uploaded ‘yet another selfie’ or found ourselves ‘nitpicking’ at a recent holiday 98

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snap - in its primary form if we’re honest with ourselves is it just mere envy?

The approval that comes from “likes” and positive comments on social media is rewarding – particularly for the lonely, isolated or insecure and those most likely to post selfies appear to have lower self-esteem than those who don’t. In sum, selfies draw attention, which seems like a good thing but, so do car accidents when people are quite literally glued to their smartphones - the adonis to provide affirmation of popularity, albeit in a virtual reality.

So a picture may be worth a thousand words, but perhaps a thousand smiling selfies are worth even more to our mental health and overall happiness.

We’re all for celebrating individuality after all, aren’t we?

Ladies, allow yourselves to be inspired!

Orsay, the German brand, introduces its new collection. Nothing is better than looking gorgeous with this aaordable fashion. Get your Orsay outďŹ t and stand out.

The new collection is available at Orsay City Centre Bahrain +973 17581569www.ohlala-magazine.com 99

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