Bahrain This Month - November 2019

MOTORING – TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT

Since 1997

November 2019 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 11 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

ALL THINGS LUXE

Cars Jewellery Watches Accessories Travel

INTERVIEWS 45 Years of The ‘Dilly’ Bahrain Paralympians Turning Trash to Treasure

HAPPENINGS Festivals Galore Kids’ Theatre Visiting Performers

FOOD Dining Afloat Italian Specials www.bahrainthismonth.com

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

Digital Edition

freelancer collection

SPLASHFASHIONS.COM

CONTENTS ISSUE 267

NOVEMBER

42

24

30

34 www.bahrainthismonth.com

BYSTANDER

28

Our snappers have been very busy out and about at the national days of Germany, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and Korea. They also attended the Press Award Ceremony, events to mark Dutch Healthy Food Week, several Oktoberfests, food festivals, business launches and other festivities. Did you see them on their extensive travels.

22

Cover Story

42

Luxe 101

A dip into the world of luxury from cars to jewellery, watches and more.

Happenings

19 20 22 24 26 28

Bahrain Jazz Festival

30 32 34

Pensioners’ Parade

36

Rugby’s Greatest

The big names at the big outdoor festival with local faves too.

Spooky Beach Party

Sofitel’s big Halloween bash.

Ultimate Uncorked

Try an exclusive selection of grapes from across the globe.

Traditions of the Sea

The return of the popular sea festival.

Live Concert

WizKid’s in town for the year’s biggest dance party.

Celebratory Performance

Swan Lake marks the anniversary of the Bahrain National Theatre.

The Chelsea Pensioners put in an appearance at the Poppy Ball.

Craft Fair

American Women’s Association’s annual Snowflake Fair.

Kids’ Play

Fun for all ages with The Tiger Who Came to Tea.

An evening with George Gregan.

Visit bahrainthismonth.com for a comprehensive list of events.

November 2019 5

CONTENTS ISSUE 267

NOVEMBER

45

85

Interviews

37 38 40

45 Years of ‘The Dilly’

Plans for the future and memories from the past at the Dilmun Club.

Removing Barriers and Changing Perceptions Bahrain’s Paralympic future.

From An Artist’s Eye Turning trash to treasure.

Motoring

55 56

My Life in Cars

Dick Potter on motoring music.

Motoring Bites

BTM brings you the latest news.

Commerce

62 64

Business Bites Opinion: Pria Masson Tanwar

Dining

67 68 69-75

Surreal Splendour Lagoon Moon review.

La Dolce Vita

Mama Mia Mondays at Primavera.

Table Hopping

Dining news and offers.

Technology

78-79 67 80 81 82

40

Gadgets:

The newest gizmos in town.

Computer Games

The hottest games of the month.

Apps:

Essential apps to try.

Websites

The coolest sites on the web.

Entertainment

85 86 87

68 www.bahrainthismonth.com bahrainthismonth www.bahrainthismonth.com

92 bhthismonth

Music:

Top new tunes.

New on TV:

Shows to download.

Film Faves:

Latest big-screen releases.

Lifestyle

90 91 92-93

What’s Green:

Eco-friendly products.

Out and About: Pool passes.

Travel: New Orleans November 2019 7

THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton

Bahrain This Month November 2019

Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Zilia Monteiro, Dick Potter Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel, Hatem Monem Photography Editor Muna Yousef Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services)

Media Sales ANURADHA MANHAS anuradha@redhousemarketing.com

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Content Editor Liz O’Reilly Digital Marketing & Social Media Executive Michelle D’Souza Art & Animation Director Hatem Monem Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2019 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

•

Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

COVER Cover Picture:

All Things Luxe MOTORING – TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT

Since 1997

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

November 2019 ~ Vol. 23 ~ Issue 11 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

ALL THINGS LUXE

Cars Jewellery Watches Accessories Travel

INTERVIEWS 45 Years of The ‘Dilly’ Bahrain Paralympians Turning Trash to Treasure

HAPPENINGS Festivals Galore Kids’ Theatre Visiting Performers

FOOD Dining Afloat Italian Specials www.bahrainthismonth.com

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

There’s certainly a busy month coming up eventswise with everything from the Bahrain Jazz Festival, the return of the Sea Festival, superstar African artist WizKid at Coral Bay and three separate plays for the whole family from Entertainment Plus - The Tiger Who Came To Tea, Three Billy Goats Gruff and Dr Dolittle.

I must say that, once again, Bahrain is punching above its weight in terms of the excellent level and quality of entertainment on offer as we head into the winter months.

You’ll find details of all these events and more in our Happenings pages and make sure to keep at eye on www.bahrainthismonth.com for the Kingdom’s most popular events portal, where you can access regular updates throughout the month.

We’ve taken inspiration from another major event, Jewellery Arabia, for this month’s big feature in which we take a look at all things luxury.

From cars, including the stunning pictures of the Rolls-Royce Phantom taken by Bahrain-based snapper Matt Wardle, to travel and, of course, watches and jewellery.

In the interviews section, we caught up with Dilmun Club founding member, Glyn Ashley, as well as the current management team, to talk about the much-loved club’s humble beginnings and what’s in store for the future as it celebrates its 45th anniversary.

We also chatted to Shaikh Mohamed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee, ahead of the upcoming 2019 World Para Athletics Championships.

And artist Patrick Oriole S Palacio shared his vision and mission for turning trash into treasure.

In the dining section, Behnaz checked out Lagoon Moon Floating Restaurant and Liz sampled the new Mama Mia Mondays menu at Primavera at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

There’s a massive six pages of Table Hopping news from the island’s F&B sector and we also have our regular round-ups from the fields of business and motoring.

Add to that films, TV, new music, the best gadgets and online spots for gaming, websites and apps and you really do have something of interest for everyone.

As always, we strive to be ‘Your guide to a great way of life.’

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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Digital Edition

Nightlife

November 2019 9

bystander

German National Day 2019

To celebrate the 29th German Unity Day, German Ambassador, HE Kai Boeckmann, and his wife Rofa, held a reception at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

10 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

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SIGNATURES FOR SHARING Creativity you can taste.

CONTACT:

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PASSIONATELY COOKED LOVINGLY SERVED FRESHNESS DELIVERED CONTACT:

Adliya: +973 17 540188 Riffa: +973 17 760780 www.stirfrycrazy.com

bystander

74th Indonesia Independence Day

On the occasion of the 74th anniversary of the Independence Day of Indonesia, Indonesian Ambassador, HE Nur Syahrir Rahardjo, and his wife Retnani, held a reception at Crowne Plaza Bahrain

12 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

le mois DU RELAX

Puglia, Italy

VISIT US IN MANAMA PHOENICIA DECOR PALACE PALMS BLDG, TEL: 00973-17564444 / NATUZZI.COM

bystander

was held at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Saudi National Day Ato reception celebrate Saudi National Day 2019

14 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

#DiscoverYourPlanet @ seiko_prospex

“Satan’s Palace” Miyakojima, Japan

Coiling darkly through the coral reef, a narrow shaft ends in an illuminated cavern unlike any place on earth. It’s known as Satan’s Palace.

For those with the passion to challenge and explore the unknown.

bystander

Korean National Day

On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Korea, Korean Ambassador, HE Koo Hyunmo and his wife Jina, held a reception at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

16 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

BD49NET INCLUSIVE OF SELECTED BEVERAGES

SARAYA | FIAMMA | RIVAAJ WEDNESDAY, 25TH DECEMBER 2019 BRUNCH STARTS FROM 12:30PM Advance bookings now open, for reservations, please call +973 3888 5789

@sofitelbahrain

happenings

NOVEMBER 2019-HAPPENINGS ALL THAT JAZZ EVERY MONDAY

GRAPE, DAZZ, JAZZ

COUPLES SPECIAL CODA JAZZ LOUNGE

Indulge in a two-course dinner whilst enjoying authentic live jazz and soul

by Tarsha Thomas & the JazzKatz at this mid-week offering at CODA for BD15 per person. The promotion runs every Monday from 6pm till 1am and you can enjoy some urban beats by DJ Danzel until 2am.

Call 34 342-828.

MUSICAL TREAT NOVEMBER 1

BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST

ROYAL GOLF CLUB

EVERY TUESDAY

TWO FOR TUESDAY

ART ROTANA

Take some time off mid-week to treat yourself and a loved one to this special offer at the ART Rotana. For BD15 per couple you have access to the beach.

Top it up with a one-hour massage session for BD50 per couple or a 90-minute session for BD74. Offer valid every Tuesday throughout November from 10am to 10pm.

Call 16 000-111.

The third edition of the Bahrain Jazz Fest is set to take place on November 1, 2019. The open-air music festival will feature 13 international and local jazz artists and musicians, including: 10-time Grammy-nominated, platinumselling legendary American jazz band, Spyro Gyra, together with performances from Lone Star Blues ft Buddy Whittington Jr and Santiago Campillo, Nubiyan Twist, Flash Mob Jazz, Jaye and Foe, The Relocators, Jack Rabbit Slims and This MIght Be Jazz.

The event is expected to attract more than 5,000 jazz enthusiasts from Bahrain and the region. Taking place on the scenic driving range of the award-winning Royal Golf Club golf course, the festival promises an unmatched experience and is now an annual feature in the national events calendar.

The family-friendly event is open to all ages from 11am till 11pm and will host activities such as interactive children’s tents, food trucks, corporate hospitality areas, activation zones and all-day markets. The festival will also feature a second community stage that will showcase up-and-coming bands based in Bahrain.

Tickets are priced at BD21 for adults and BD10.5 for juniors (VAT included) with free admission for children aged six and under (all standing).

Call 17 552-393.

ON THE WATER NOVEMBER 1

DRAGON BOAT RACING AND FESTIVITIES

WATER GARDEN CITY

The first ASEAN Dragon Boat Racing Festival in Bahrain will see teams from across the island going head-to-head in knock-out stages against the clock in this traditional Asian rowing discipline which features colourful boats powered by super-fast paddling to the beat of a drum. There will also be Asian food stalls, water and land activities, music, games, stalls and more.

The event runs from 8am-4pm.

Call 16 163-057. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

November 2019 19

happenings

HALLOWEEN ON THE BEACH NOVEMBER 1

When? Every Sunday Event? Morning Yoga Classes Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

Beginner yoga classes at Players Bar from 9.15am to 9.45am.

Intermediate classes from 8am to 9am on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. A yoga mat and towel are required. BD3 for nonmembers and BD2 for members.

Call 17 695-809.

When? Every Monday Event? Trivia Night Venue? Sherlock Holmes

Every Monday night with Radio Bahrain’s Ian Fisher. Five Rounds plus a snowball round with exciting prizes to be won. Entry fee is BD1 per person for the snowball round from 8pm to 10.30pm.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

SPOOKY BEACH PARTY

Prepare to walk through a haunted beachside cemetery for a spine-chilling night full of non-stop entertainment at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. The evening features a full-fledged special tribute with mob dance performances to the late King of Pop’s biggest hit Thriller, and the return of the talented Top 100—World DJ DJane Djoly, accompanied by Zombie fire spitting and fire dancing shows from 6pm to midnight.

There will be an after-party at Tapas to keep the spooky vibes rolling after midnight and the kids’ club will feature its own spooktacular programme. Make sure you dig out your scariest gear as there will be prizes for the best costumes.

Call 38 885-789.

TAKE THE THRONE NOVEMBER 1

HOUSE OF STARK GOT HALLOWEEN

EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE GALLERY 21 BH

NOVEMBER 2

CONFERENCE

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL

Call 17 713-000.

When? Every Monday Event? Wine, Dazz, Jazz Venue? CODA Jazz Lounge Call 34 342-828.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Gulf Night Out Season 2 Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Call 17 713-000.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain

Ladies night every Tuesday including 50% off on all restaurants (except Rasoi By Chef Vineet and La Pergola By Perbellini), lounges and spa.

Call 17 713-000.

When? Every Tuesday Event? Two for Tuesday Venue? Art Rotana Call 16 000-111.

When? Every Wednesday Event? Ladies’ Wednesdays Venue? Art Rotana Call 16 000-111.

When? Every Thursday Event? Ladies Fantasia Venue? IntercContinental Regency Bahrain

Fantasia ladies’ night with a live female DJ, three free cocktails or wines and complimentary pool access plus 30% discount from 8pm to midnight.

Call 17 227-777.

20 November 2019

The venue will be transformed from 8pm onwards into a vibrant yet ghoulish fiesta, where the living and the dead will mingle at this Game of Thrones-themed night. Expect an evening of tricks and treats with surprise entertainment and live DJ sets throughout. DJ Ferreck Dawn from Defected Records, UK, will be the highlight, accompanied by DJ Andy Collins and DJ Momo. Tickets are BD10 for ladies and BD15 for gents pre-sale and BD20 at the door.

Call 32 223-323 / 17 711-600.

ARTISTIC EXPRESSION NOVEMBER 3

BEYOND BAHRAIN SILENCE – A NATIONAL RESTROSPECTIVE MUSEUM

The Bahrain English Language Teaching (ELT) Professionals Network organises its eighth annual conference under the theme ‘Learner Engagement’.

The conference, which attracts more than 300 ELT professionals from Bahrain and the MENA region, will bring together English teachers and educators to share experiences and enhance their skills as well as connecting them with international educational organisations.

This year’s conference programme includes sessions by three keynote speakers: Dr Paula Rebolledo from Chile, a teacher educator, author and co-founder of RICELT; Peter Lucantoni from Cyprus, an education consultant and author; as well as Scott Thornbury from Spain, a teacher educator, author and co-founder of Dogme.

Delegates will have access to the latest ELT publications and consultancy services.

Call 39 114-620.

Sudanese artist, Dr Rashid Diab, carries the obsession of an artist and the questions of a curious mind, both of which are only satisfied by colour, form and shadow.

His secrets and his identity rely on colours, and he is very realistic as far as he is abstract. The main inspiration behind his emotion and workflow is the River Nile.

In this retrospective, we discover his artistic identity, which has been founded on the principle of converting and transforming one of the cultural or social elements into a subject matter, which is then created into a vision of imagination and beauty.

Call 17 298-777. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

bystander

Chinese Ballet Performance

In celebration of World Tourism Day and in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy, the Suzhou Ballet Theatre presented a gala on the Bahrain National Theatre stage

This is Bahrain 2019 The King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful

Coexistence, under the theme “This is Bahrain”, hosted a dinner in honour of British MP, Rehman Chishti, the UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

November 2019 21

happenings When? Every Friday Event? Salsa party Venue? InterContinental Regency Bahrain

Join the salsa party featuring a workshop from 8pm to midnight.

Call 17 227-777.

When? Until November 13 Event? The Dolls of Japan Venue? Bahrain National Museum

Visit this cultural exhibition focussing on the tradition of Japanese doll-making from 10am to 6pm.

Visit culture.org.bh

When? Until November 16 Event? Music of Poetry Venue? Al Khalifiyah Library

A specialised course on the music of Arabic poetry for participants aged 18 years and above. The course will be from 10am and conducted in Arabic.

Visit culture.org.bh

SECURITY CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 4-6

9TH ASIS MIDDLE EAST CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION

The 9th ASIS Middle East 2019 Conference and Exhibition will be held under the patronage of HE General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Interior Minister, and under the auspices of ASIS International Middles East. The conference and exhibition is the meeting place for all Middle Eastern industries and operations addressing the critical matter of security.

The event showcases technology developments and addresses key areas including homeland security and public policing, offshore and maritime security, cybersecurity, unmanned vehicles, transport and critical infrastructure, banking security, hospitality security, convergence of cyber and physical security and robotics. Registration fees apply for delegates.

Visit asis-me.org

EXERCISE UNDER THE STARS

NOVEMBER ROOFTOP FOUR SEASONS HOTEL 5 YOGA BAHRAIN BAY

When? November 1 Event? Dragon Boat Racing Venue? Water Garden City

1st ASEAN Dragonboat Racing Festival in Bahrain Water Garden City.

Call 39 233-891.

When? November 1 Event? Sound & Light show Venue? Bahrain Fort

An audio-visual experience, which takes the audience through a guided journey from the present into the past, and back. Catch the English version at 6pm and the Arabic version at 7pm.

Visit culture.gov.bh

When? November 1 Event? Halloween Brunch Party Venue? Wembley Lounge Call 33 640 009 / 33 536-448.

When? November 1 Event? Live Band Venue? Dragon Hotel

Enjoy the hottest tunes from live bands exclusively playing at Corners Sports Bar from 9pm to 12am.

Call 16 033-833.

When? November 1 Event? Trick or Treat Brunch Venue? The K Hotel Call 17 360-000.

When? November 1 Event? Wicked Halloween Venue? Monroe Hotel Call 17 296-699.

22 November 2019

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION CENTRE

Imagine laying on your back on the 51st floor of the Four Seasons Sky Bridge and staring at the stars while working out a yoga routine. Try some stretching and folding, meditation and finding emotional and spiritual balance under the Arabian night sky. Hotel guests and spa members pay BD6 and outside guests pay BD9. The session runs from 7.30pm until 8.30pm.

Call 17 115-045.

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT NOVEMBER 6-9

GULF PROPERTY SHOW

THE AVENUES

The Gulf Property Show is the boutique showcase for the leading real estate developments both local and international. The mall event provides a platform for realtors and financial institutions to exhibit real estate assets and products, showcasing real estate investment opportunities for investors in Bahrain, the GCC and internationally.

The event is open from 10am to 10pm and is free to enter.

Call 17 299-123.

BRAIN TEASER

CANCER BAHRAIN NOVEMBER WARRIORS RUGBY 5 QUIZ NIGHT FOOTBALL CLUB Get ready to show of your skills in areas from general knowledge to music and, of course, sports, with a fun night out that also raises money for a great cause.

So put your thinking caps on and get a team together and look out for some great raffle prizes including a return flight to London. The event starts at 7pm and tickets, priced BD10 per person, including a welcome drink and dinner, can be purchased from the club reception.

Call 17 695-809.

ULTIMATE UNCORKED NOVEMBER 7

GRAPE FAIR

THE RITZCARLTON BAHRAIN

Join BMMI Shops for the special edition of their annual grape tasting fair, Ultimate Uncorked.

The team has curated an exclusive selection from across the globe that is perfect for autumn and the festive season.

Discover new and enticing varieties in ultimate luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, and enjoy the elegant, picturesque outdoor setting by the hotel’s swimming pool, as you are guided by BMMI Shops’ expert sommeliers.

Tickets are BD16 for Premier Club members and BD18 for non-members. The event is from 7pm to 10pm.

Visit bmmishops.com www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

Titan BTM Insert-27.8X21.6CM.pdf

1

10/21/19

5:45 PM

happenings When? November 1 Event? Halloween Venue? Movenpick Hotel Bahrain Call 17 460-000.

PARTY AWAY NOVEMBER 7

THE WHITE HOUSE PARTY

A ROARING NIGHT

CELLAR 59

TIGER NOVEMBER ROAR BY 7 BUMM

MCGETTIGAN’S

When? November 1 Event? Halloween Beach Party Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Call 38 885-789.

When? November 1 Event? Halloween-Themed Brunch Party Venue? Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Feast with zombies, witches and vampires at this Halloween themed brunch party and satisfy all your cravings from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Call 17 531-122.

When? /November 1 Event? House of Stark GOT Halloween Venue? Gallery 21 BH Call 32 223-323 / 17 711-600.

When? November 1 Event? Sofitel’s Annual Halloween Beach Party Venue? Sofitel Bahrain Call 38 885-789.

When? November 1 Event? Bahrain Jazz Fest Venue? Royal Golf Club Call 17 552-393.

Prepare yourself for a new experience in the shape of a highclass weekend party, combined with quality service, music and atmosphere at Cellar 59, ART Rotana!

The classy-themed night will exhibit English house music played by DJ Boudi and DJ Jackson. Mingle with Bahrain’s finest from 9pm to 2am. Entrance is free for the ladies and BD10 for gents.

Call 16 000-111.

ENTREPRENEURS COMPETITION NOVEMBER 7-12

ARAB ENTREPRENEURSHIP MANAMA RALLY COMPETITION

BMMI shops and BUMM present Tiger Roar, a celebration of creativity and art, featuring international Spanish DJ/ Producer ‘Edu Imbernon,’ from 8pm onwards. The line-up for the night also includes DJs Myterioo Arif, Ramy Awad and Mesut Kutbay.

The event will include special live graffiti shows, installation artists, projector mapping, giveaways and more.

Visit 37 777-845.

TRADITIONS OF THE SEA NOVEMBER 7-16

SEA FESTIVAL

MARASSI BEACH

When? November 2 Event? A Jazzy Saturday Ladies’ Night!

Venue? CODA Jazz Lounge

Ladies, wind down your weekend with this jazzy night with complimentary drinks, discounted food and live entertainment by the resident band and DJ.

Call 34 342-828

When? November 2 Event? Conference Venue? Crowne Plaza Hotel Call 39 114-620.

When? November 3 Event? Beyond silence, By Rashid Diab – a restrospective Venue? Bahrain National Museum Call 17 298-777.

When? November 3 Event? Deborah Jones Live Venue? Attic Greek Kouzina

Kick-start your week with the beautiful voice of Deborah Jones who is joined by Adel Fairooz every Sunday from 8.30pm.

Call 38 177-177.

24 November 2019

Looking to create a technological business idea? The Arab Entrepreneurship Rally is your chance to make your dream come true. This entrepreneurship competition is for university students to apply with a startup idea, and compete against startups / concepts from all over the Arab region. The competition is jointly organised by the Arab Academy for Science and Technology and Maritime Transport, UNIDO Bahrain - AICEI, Union of Arab Chambers and Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Get the chance to represent your country in the final round held mid-November. Participants pitch their startup ideas in front of business leaders, investors, and members of the entrepreneurship eco-system.

The competition is open for ages 18 to 30.

The fourth edition of the annual Sea Festival will be held over 10 days at Marassi Beach. First launched in 2016, the Sea Festival celebrates the Kingdom’s historical ties to the sea seeking to educate modern-day visitors and tourists on the island’s deeply rooted past and revive that legacy by showcasing several sea-related traditions and activities.

This year’s edition will include a number of attractions such as water sports activities, boat rides, traditional music performances, handicrafts and pearl merchants. There will also be plenty of entertainment with an amazing on-stage performance from Cirque De La Mer alongside a museum, outdoor cinema and an interactive play area for kids.

Visit seafestival.bh

Visit www.entrepreneurshiprally.com www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

happenings When? November 4 Event? 9th ASIS Middle East Conference and Exhibition Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre Visit asis-me.org When? November 5 Event? Rooftop Yoga Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Call 17 115-045.

When? November 6 Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? McGettigan’s

All-new ladies’ night serving four free drinks from 6pm to 1am.

Resident band Roadhits will play music all night long.

Call 17 000-415.

When? November 6 Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? CODA Jazz Lounge

LIVE CONCERT NOVEMBER 8

WIZKID

CORAL BAY BAHRAIN

Brace yourselves for the most awaited party of the year and witness the dynamic live concert of the one and only ‘Wizkid’ live at Coral Bay. Miami Events Bahrain joins hands with Elevate Entertainment SPC to bring you this not-to-be-missed party that promises to be a great night out.

Pre-sale tickets are BD20 and it’s BD25 at the door.

VIP tables start at BD250 onwards. Door open at 3pm.

Call 36 950-077 / 17 312 700 / 37 354 912.

NEW FESTIVAL IN TOWN NOVEMBER 8

DILSTOCK

DILMUN CLUB

OUTDOOR MARKET NOVEMBER BAHRAIN POP THE COURTYARD, 8-9 UP MARKET SEEF

Ladies enjoy an exclusive night with lip-smacking cocktails on the house and entertainment from the in-house band from 8.30pm and guest DJ Sabrina Terence.

Call 34 342-828.

When? November 6-9 Event? Gulf Property Show Venue? The Avenues Call 17 299-123.

When? November 7 Event? Grape Fair Venue? The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Visit bmmishops.com When? November 7 Event? Artistic Workshop – Patterns & Stencil Art Venue? Bab Al Bahrain

An artistic workshop where children aged 12 to 15 years learn the architectural motives of Bahraini architecture by printing them on paper using the art of stencil techniques. Prior registration is required.

Visit culture.org.bh

A new rock festival will make its debut in town. Dilstock, featuring five legends of rock from different genres, is organised by the Dilmun Club showcasing the best acts from the UK and Europe’s tribute bands.

Acts will pay tribute to The Rolling Stones, U2, Queen and David Bowie and there’ll be a special set entitled I Rock the 80s.

The outdoor event features food and drinks stalls, market vendors, a kids’ area and much more. Doors open at 3pm and the first band will be on stage at 4pm with performances running through until late. Tickets are BD15 for adults, BD8 for kids, under fours go free.

Call 33 192-820.

ASIAN COOKING DEMO

NOVEMBER WU’S COOKING 9 DEMONSTRATION

ART ROTANA

When? November 7 Event? White House Party Venue? Cellar 59 Call 16 000-111.

When? November 7 Event? Tiger ROAR by Bumm & BMMIshops Venue? McGettigan’s Visit 37 777 845.

When? November 7 Event? Her Night Venue? Havana Club

Ladies, put on your dancing 26 November 2019

Refresh your culinary skills at an interactive cooking demonstration by preparing an authentic Asian meal with Chef Ravi at WU Restaurant from 11am to 1.30pm followed by a complimentary lunch at BD20 net.

Call 16 000-111.

Over 35 vendors will set up shop at the Bahrain pop up market, serving up the best in food, fashion, make-up, design and more. There will be live musical performances throughout the two days from 5pm to 11pm.

Call 37 119-590.

BARC (DOGFATHER) MUSICAL FUNDRAISER NOVEMBER 9

ROOFTOP JAM

SEEF VISTA

Make the most of the rapidly cooling weather to join in a rooftop barbecue jam session which aims to raise cash for furry friends in need of help.

Musicians bring your gear. Food and drinks (BYOB) for the barbie are welcome and appreciated.

Artists and craftspeople are welcome to display their goods for sale! Reserve your spots FREE! Guests all you need to bring are dancing shoes and/or swimming suits.

No tickets, or entry charge however a donation will be gladly accepted. Proceedings will go to B.A.R.C. (The Dogfather).

Call 39 066-892. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

LE MERIDIEN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway, Al Seef District, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T +973 1717 1000 lemeridiencitycentrebahrain.com

BAHRAIN’S SWEETEST BRUNCH Every Fridays from 12:30PM to 4:00PM BHD 28 net inclusive of soft beverages BHD 36 net inclusive of selected beverages For more information or to make a reservation, please call +973 1717 1441 or WhatsApp +973 3350 2121

happenings shoes and groove to Cuban rhythms and enjoy complimentary drinks from 8pm to 12am.

Call 77 707-070.

CELEBRATORY PERFORMANCE NOVEMBER 12

SWAN LAKE

BAHRAIN NATIONAL THEATRE

ANNIVERSARY PARTY NOVEMBER 14

21ST CLUB ANNIVERSARY WRANGLER

When? November 7-12 Event? Arab Entrepreneurship Rally Competition Venue? Manama Visit www. entrepreneurshiprally.com When? November 7-16 Event? Sea Festival Venue? Marassi Beach Visit seafestival.bh When? November 8 Event? Xenai Live Venue? Al Siteen Café

ProjectX Xenai will be performing his mixtape at Al Siteen Cafe.

Limited entries available.

Call 33 350-935.

When? November 8 Event? Certified Yoga Leader Training Venue? Shining Rays Events Bahrain

Get certified to be a laughter yoga leader at this two-day workshop for anyone wanting to add more laughter to the lives of others including their own, from 4pm to 9pm.

Call 39 867-041.

When? November 8 Event? Wizkid – Live Concert Venue? Coral Bay Bahrain Call 36 950-077 / 17 312 700 / 37 354 912.

When? November 8 Event? Dilstock at the Dilmun Venue? Dilmun Club Call 33 192-820.

When? November 8-9 Event? Bahrain Pop Up Market Venue? The Courtyard, Seef Call 37 119-590.

When? November 9 Event? WU’s cooking demonstration Venue? WU Restaurant and Lounge Call 16 000-111.

When? November 12 Event? Swan Lake Venue? Bahrain National Theatre Visit culture.gov.bh When? November 12 Event? Full Moon Yoga Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Harness the energy of the full 28 November 2019

In celebration of Bahrain National Theatre’s anniversary, prominent dancers from the world-known Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre will be performing the revolutionary piece Swan Lake in a frontline gala.

The original ballet was written in 1876 and soon became one of the most famous dance pieces in the world; the real gem of the Russian ballet school. The masterpiece, created by M Petipa and L Ivanov, accompanied by some of the most beautiful music ever written for ballet by P Tchaikovsky, has won millions of hearts. Swan Lake is known to be one of the most unique and outstanding pieces that can’t be compared to any other existent ballet.

The version by the Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre retains all the key features of the classical, academic choreography created by Petipa and Ivanov, retaining emblematic dances but at the same time reinterpreting the story. The performance is open to ages eight years and above.

Visit culture.gov.bh

A DANCE BALLET NOVEMBER 15

BHAUMI

Club Wrangler is coming of age and marking its milestone birthday with a visit from world-famous DJ Epps from Miami who will be coming to town! No stranger to Bahrain, Epps has performed on the island several times over recent years and his shows are always fun-packed and enjoyable with great music. Entry to the celebration is free for all US military personnel.

For others tickets are BD10 for men and BD5 for ladies.

Call 36 382-872.

FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP

BAHRAIN CULTURAL HALL

A dance ballet based on the Indian epic, Sita Ramayan will take place at the Bahrain Cultural Hall this month under the patronage of the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO).

Around 45 talented artists from across the island will present Bhaumi; A Journey Through a Woman’s Soul. HE Dr Mustafa Al Sayed, Secretary General of the RCO will be the chief guest at the event. The guest of honour will be Harish Sivaramakrishnan, lead signer of the famous Carnatic rock band AGAM. The event is free to attend and open to all nationalities.

Call 3223 9488 & 3334 9522.

BRAVE NOVEMBER KHALIFA SPORTS COMBAT 15 CITY ARENA FEDERATION

Bahrain’s own Brave Combat Federation is staging the biggest mixed martial arts (MMA) sports event in Asia. It promises a night of entertainment, world-class-fights, and excitement, and, this time around, with a twist: the most expensive belt in the history of sports will be awarded to the winner of the KHK World Championship Title. Don’t miss Brave 29, headlining the 2019 Brave International Combat Week. Gates open at 4.30pm.

Visit wanasatime.com www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

— POSEIDON’S KINGDOM

O L I V O— S F R O M 6:00 pm TO 10:00 pm ENJOY A WIDE SELECTION OF SEAFOOD DISHES EVERY MONDAY BHD 15 NET PER PERSON The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel • Residence • Spa Manama / Diplomatic Area, P.O. Box 5243 Manama Bahrain T: +973 17531666 info.diplomat@radissonblu.com ,

,

radissonblu.com/diplomathotel-bahrain

happenings moon as you move from asana to asana. Hotel guests and spa members pay BD6 and outside guests pay BD9.

Call 17 115-045.

When? November 14 Event? 21st Anniversary Venue? Club Wrangler Call 36 382-872.

When? November 14 Event? Traditional Folklore Qalali Band Venue? Bab Al Bahrain

A traditional musical evening in Bab Al-Bahrain that takes you back to local traditional folklore.

Visit culture.gov.bh

When? November 15 Event? Bhaumi Venue? Bahrain Cultural Hall Call 32 239-488 / 33 349-522.

When? November 15 Event? Brave Combat Federation Venue? Khalifa Sports City Arena Visit wanasatime.com When? November 15 Event? Poppy Ball Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Call 17813-488 or email bbbfevents@batelco.com.bh.

When? November 15 & 29 Event? WU Terrace Party Venue? WU Restaurant and Lounge Call 16 000-111.

When? November 16 Event? Bargain Bazaar Venue? The Rugby Club Call 39 801-393.

When? November 16 Event? Wake Up Poets Venue? Alliance Francaise

PENSIONERS’ BALL NOVEMBER 15

POPPY BALL

One of the most popular events in Bahrain’s yearly social calendar, the Poppy Ball will take place this month, organised by the Bahrain British Business Forum in cooperation with the British Business Association from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

As customary, one of the main attractions at the charity event is the attendance of the Chelsea Pensioners as VIP Guests of Honour.

This year, the BBBF will host three Chelsea Pensioners: Dewi Treharne (WO2) 84 years; Peter Henry (WO1) 72 years; and Roy Palmer (WO2) 80 years.

During their stay the pensioners will attend many functions, including school visits, British Embassy functions and visits to local places of interest. The highlights of their visit will be laying a wreath at the Memorial Service to mark Remembrance Day and attending the Poppy Ball.

The evening will begin at 7pm with a welcome reception and a buffet dinner, followed by music from 9.30 pm onwards with music, lights, DJ and a live performance by the band Wired, to dance the night away.

Dress code is evening or cocktail dresses for ladies and dinner suits with black tie or national dress for gents.

A raffle will be organised during the ball with many exciting prizes up for grabs, including two British Airways business-class return tickets to the UK. The Chelsea Pensioners’ visits to Bahrain have become a yearly custom. The Poppy Ball is organised in support of the Chelsea Pensioners Appeal, Earl Haig Pensioners Fund, and the Children and Mothers Welfare Society,

ROOFTOP PARTY NOVEMBER 15 & 29

WU TERRACE PARTY

THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN

which has been a leader in voluntary work in Bahrain since 1953 and has played a central role in the empowerment and uplifting of women and children in the kingdom.

Call 17813-488 or email bbbfevents@batelco.com.bh.

CHARITY BAZAAR WU RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE

NOVEMBER 16

BARGAIN BAZAAR

THE RUGBY CLUB

The second edition of ‘Wake Up Poets,’ takes place in French, Arabic or English with music or a capella from 5pm to 10pm.

Call 17 683-295.

When? November 16 Event? AWA Snowflake Craft Fair Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa Visit craftfair@awabahrain. org When? November 16 Event? Outdoor Spinning Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Try these monthly alfresco spinning sessions on the outdoor 30 November 2019

Experience a spectacular chilled weekend party at WU’s Terrace in ART Rotana, from 4pm until midnight. Enjoy the sensational sunset view with refreshing drinks, signature shisha and delicious Asian dishes, while DJ Elena and a guest DJ spin the decks. Free entrance for the ladies with a complimentary drink and BD10 for gents with two free drinks from 4pm to 12am.

Call 16 000-111.

Calling one and all to support the bargain bazaar and to raise money for the Bahrain Animal Rescue Centre, formerly The Dogfather’s Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. Entry is 500 fils for visitors and BD10 per spot for vendors. The bazaar is open from 10am to 2pm. No tables will be provided for vendors.

Call 39 801-393. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

happenings spinning beach deck from 9.30am to 10.30am. BD6 for spa members and in-house guests BD9 for outside guests.

Call 17 115-045.

When? November 17-19 Event? Woodcut Printing workshop Venue? Art Centre

The Art Centre hosts this workshop in coordination with Jehan Saleh Printmaking Studio, teaching wood engraving, printmaking and inking techniques over three days.

Visit culture.gov.bh

When? November 18 Event? MENA Angel Investors Summit Venue? Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Visit tenmou.me When? November 19 Event? Arab International Aluminium Conference Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa Call 17 713-000.

When? November 19-23 Event? Lebanese Independence Day Venue? The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

CRAFT FAIR NOVEMBER 16

AWA SNOWFLAKE CRAFT FAIR

Looking for that special gift for Christmas? Head over to the American Women Association’s Snowflake Craft Fair to find just what you need. This popular event is a fantastic opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts and the perfect event for craftspeople, artists and designers to showcase their products.

The American Women’s Association’s craft group has worked for the last year to make useful and highly decorative items, including beautiful mosaics, decorations, shawls, aprons etc. The Manama Singers and the Awali Barbershop Quartet will be getting everyone in the Christmas spirit with their beautiful singing and, of course, Santa and Mrs Clause will be making an appearance.

Visit craftfair@awabahrain.org

INVESTORS SUMMIT NOVEMBER 18

MENA ANGEL INVESTORS SUMMIT

Tenmou, Bahrain’s first Business Angels Company, has officially opened online registration for the 8th edition of the MENA Angel Investors Summit, which will be featured as one of the official events of Global Entrepreneurship Week’s (GEW) and Bahrain’s exciting line-up of events.

GEW is a critical week for the Kingdom, where Bahrain joins the world in celebrating a week each November that is

Zahle hosts a Lebanese cultural festival, with a special food menu and renowned Lebanese Singer Assi Bitar and Dabke Band from Lebanon. Prices are BD20++ on weekdays and BD25++ on weekends.

Call 17 713-000.

When? November 19-23 Event? Jewellery Arabia 2019 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre Visit jewelleryarabia.com When? November 20 Event? Special Ladies’ Night Venue? WU Lounge

Join DJ Elena in celebrating her birthday as she introducies her new set for the evening. Ladies before you leave don’t forget to avail your special giveaway. The event is free for ladies with three complimentary drinks from 7pm to 12am.

Call 16 000-111.

When? November 21 Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Wembley Lounge

Ladies’ night with entertainment from DJ TinTin, a night of singing, dancing and karaoke, and unlimited house cocktails from 32 November 2019

THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE AND SPA

RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN

dedicated to inspire and engage entrepreneurs across 160 countries, connecting its participants to a network of innovators and key stakeholders.

This year’s Summit will be dedicated to showcasing high potential start-up talents in Bahrain and the MENA region by featuring 30 start-up pitches. The summit is aimed towards raising funds for start-ups and providing them with a platform to gain access to investment opportunities from multiple industries and different geographies across the region, ranging from health-tech and fin-Ttch to education and logistics.

With Tamkeen as the key Strategic Partner, the 2019 Summit is also supported by several ecosystem partners namely Bahrain’s Economic Development Board (EDB), Alba, First Energy Bank, Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) and Empire as event partners; alongside AlWaha Fund, Arabnet, Flat6labs, Start-Up Bahrain, Start-Up Magazine, MIT Enterprise Forum (MITEF), Rowad, Brinc Batelco and 500 Startups as community partners.

The event is from 8am to 2pm.

Visit tenmou.me

CONFERENCE SPOTLIGHT NOVEMBER 19

ARAB INTERNATIONAL ALUMINIUM CONFERENCE

THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

ALBA hosts the 23rd Arab International Aluminium Conference (ARABAL), the premium platform for the aluminium industry in the Arab world. Since it’s inauguration in Kuwait in 1983, ARABAL has become an event of international repute, bringing together industry leaders from around the world to discuss current issues in the aluminium sector whilst also exploring investment opportunities. The conference focuses on the current industry prospects and challenges, an international exhibition, workshops, site visit and networking events.

Call 17 713-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

ALL YOU NEED UNDER

ONE ROOF saarmallbahrain www.saarmallbahrain.com

SAAR MALL is a stylish contemporary mall that offers something for everyone. Located at the heart of Saar district, it provides a broad variety of neighbourhood shops, food outlets and entertainment, with innovative events and promotions throughout the year. +973 17 790 203

info@Saarmallbahrain.com

happenings 8pm till 1am for just BD3 per person.

Call 33 640-009.

When? November 22 Event? Arabian Night Venue? Cellar 59

Arabic themed party featuring a performance by a renowned

JEWELLERY SHOWCASE

ROCK ALL NIGHT

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL NOVEMBER JEWELLERY & 19-23 ARABIA 2019 EXHIBITION CONVENTION CENTRE

ROOM 2 ROCK NIGHT

NOVEMBER 22

DILMUN CLUB

singer from 9pm to 2am. Free entrance for the ladies, gents are charged BD10 net after 11pm.

Call 16 000-111.

When? November 22 Event? Room 2 Rock Night Venue? Dilmun Club Call 17 690-926.

When? November 23-27 Event? The Tiger Who Came to Tea Venue? Cultural Hall Call 39 616-858.

When? November 25 Event? Human Capital Forum Venue?

Call 17 749-759.

When? November 26-27 Event? FABI Summit Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

A summit for Finance, Accounting, Banking and Insurance thought leaders from around the region.

Visit www.fabisummit.com

When? November 27 Event? Yoga & Wellness Retreat Venue? Hawar Islands Call 39 955-539.

When? November 27 Event? Artistic dialogue Venue? Al Hidaya Al Khalifiya School

HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa and Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa will share their passion in faces, scenes and stories. The event is from 4pm to 8pm.

Visit culture.gov.bh

When? November 27 Event? The Big Trivia Quiz Venue? Wembley Lounge Join the free quiz starting at 8pm and win cash prizes.

Call 33 640-009.

When? November 28 Event? Musical Evening Venue? Cultural Hall

A live musical performance featuring a local band, which will present a selection of contemporary music.

Visit culture.org.bh

34 November 2019

Jewellery Arabia, the most prestigious jewellery exhibition in the Middle East will take place this month. Over 550 exhibitors from 30 nations will participate in the event which features items from finished jewellery to luxury time pieces, to precious stones of every size, shape and cut.

The exhibition is free to attend between 9am and 6pm.

Visit jewelleryarabia.com

Students and players from Room 2 Rock are heading back to the Dilmun Club for one of their ever-popular musical nights. There will be numerous performances from the talented students and staff, as they demonstrate both what has been taught and what has been learned.

For some of the students it will be their first tastes of performing live!

Along with the music there will also be a barbecue and grill, drinks promotions and family activities. Guest fees apply: BD1 for reciprocal members and BD2 for non-members.

Call 17 690-926.

KIDS’ PLAY NOVEMBER 23-27

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA

Entertainment Plus presents a musical play, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, all the way from the UK and adapted and directed by David Wood, based on the book by Judith Kerr.

Directed via the West End, the Olivier Award-nominated smash hit show, returns on tour, celebrating more than 10 years on stage.

CULTURAL HALL

per person or a family of four can take advantage of a package for BD54. Shows run on November 23 at 11.30am and November 25, 26 and 27 at 8.45am and 10.45am.

Call 39 616-858.

The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show, packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem, expect to be surprised!

Suitable for children aged three and above. Tickets are BD15

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS NOVEMBER 28

BSPCA 40TH ANNIVERSARY

GULF HOTEL

The Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Aanimals, a charity set up 40 years ago, celebrates its milestone anniversary with friends and supporters.

The festive party will begin at 7.30pm at the Awal Ballroom. A delicious buffet dinner will be served alongside selected beverages, and there will be a cash bar available.

DJ extraordinaire, Vinyl Richie, will be spinning tracks from the 80s onwards, and there will be an exciting raffle - so be sure to bring lots of cash. Tickets are priced at BD22 and are available from the BSPCA Shelter and Thrift Shop.

Call 66 608-901. www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

Diamond level of Accreditation

happenings When? November 28-30 Event? The Indian Property Show Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

HEAR RUGBY’S GREATEST NOVEMBER 29

GEORGE GREGAN

Join in for a memorable evening with international Rugby legend, George Gregan, who has made more appearances for his Australian national team, the Wallabies, than any other player in the sport’s history.

Gregan is respected throughout the rugby world for his tenacity, tactical skill, leadership ability and sportsmanship. His appearances as Australian captain include a Bledisloe Cup win in 2002 and an extra-time loss to England in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final. As a member of the Wallabies team, Gregan has attained the zenith of the rugby world, winning the Rugby World Cup in 1999.

The event starts at 7pm, and tickets will be inclusive of dinner, a welcome drink and live music on the night.

Call 17 695-809.

The Great Indian Properties comes with lots of facilities for you to trade in your property, finance and invest in a new one from 10am to 9pm.

Visit theindianpropertyshow.org

When? November 28 Event? BSPCA 40th Anniversary Venue? Gulf Hotel Call 66 608-901.

When? November 28-29 Event? The Gun 2 Roses Tribute Band Venue? Shelock Holmes

Don’t miss the most notorious Guns N Roses tribute in history from 9pm.

The price is BD10 net inclusive of one selected drink. A thanksgiving-themed brunch party is from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Call 17 713-000.

When? November 29 Event? Soundscapes presents Martin Buttrich and Matthias Meyer Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Soundscapes is back for Season five! Martin Buttrich, label co-owner at Desolat Music Group is joined by Matthias Meyer of Berlin’s Watergate Club who returns for his second performance at Soundscapes. The event runs from 3pm till 2am.

Visit facebook.com/ soundscapes.bahrain

BAHRAIN RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

DANCE FUN NOVEMBER 28

A MUSICAL ADVENTURE

WINTER MASTI

THE WYNDHAM GARDEN MANAMA

Bahrain’s favourite Desi party brand, Desibel, presents Winter Masti with the much-loved DJ Shadow for an evening of the latest Bollywood and Punjabi chart-busters.

A pioneer in the regional music scene, DJ Shadow Dubai is known for changing his music style to adapt to the need of the times, which has ensured a steady growth in his popularity. The multi-award-winning superstar Bollywood DJ has performed to crowds of thousands at more than 500 shows around the world, and has officially produced for Sean Paul, Badshah, Bohemia and other notables. He was previously named Best Asian DJ in the Ahlan Masala Awards and is regularly ranked in the World Top DJs listing.

Call 36 769-292 / 36 378-377

NOVEMBER THREE BILLY CULTURAL 30 AND GOATS GRUFF HALL DECEMBER 4

In a bid to bring culturally enriching, educational live theatre entertainment around the Gulf, Entertainment + brings Three Billy Goats Gruff to Bahrain in collaboration with S4K International. This is a story about how three goats decide that the grass is (literally) greener on the other side of the river. On their journey they learn about taking courage to fight battles, and that greed isn’t really good and the grass is not necessarily greener on the other side.

With live music, catchy songs and a company of eight actors, the production is a funny and fast-moving musical adventure for children and adults of all ages. The play is suitable for children four years and up.

Contact entertainmentplusint@gmail.com

TALKING ANIMALS NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 5

DOCTOR DOLITTLE

CULTURAL HALL

Doctor Dolittle is presented by Entertainment + and will be performed at Bahrain’s beautiful theatre venue as part of a 2019 international tour. The musical show, for four - 11-year olds, is adapted from the stories by Hugh Lofting and is soon to be a major new movie.

The Adventures of Doctor Dolittle is the hilarious tale of an eccentric and perpetually-poor doctor from the west of England whose fortunes are transformed when he miraculously learns to talk to and understand the animals. Dr Dolittle becomes a champion of animals and a guardian of the natural habitat where they live. With magnificent animal puppets, catchy songs and a company of eight actors, Doctor Dolittle is a hilarious and fast-moving musical adventure for children and adults of all ages.

Contact entertainmentplusint@gmail.com 36 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com/events

interview

HEADING FOR A HALF CENTURY As the Dilmun Club celebrates its 45th anniversary, Liz O’Reilly chatted to the management team about future plans and caught up with a founding member for tales of the past.

G

lyn Ashley has long left these shores for Australia, but that doesn’t mean he’s not still in touch. He has some very fond memories of his time here and particularly his role, along with fellow Alba workers Alan Sterling and Adrian Westby, in setting up the island institution that went on to become the much-loved ‘Dilly’.

“The club was born in someone else’s home where a bunch of guys gathered for a game of darts and drinks,” says Glyn. “However, the wife soon put a stop to the weekly Thursday soirées. This resulted [following a brief sojourn in an unsuitable villa] in us finding a venue close by, belonging to Mr Zayani.

“He wanted the equivalent of BD10,000 a year [rent] but the members weren’t prepared to sign up for this amount and the majority of the committee resigned; just two or three of us were left.

“Were it not for Alan Sterling’s courage to sign the new lease, the club would not have progressed – but once that was completed the situation snowballed and we received tremendous support from the expat community.

“Money poured in and was used for facilities such as squash and tennis courts, stables and a cricket pitch. In those days it was possible to chat with the ruler, who kindly donated a couple of horses from his beach complex for our new stable!”

That stable, today, houses some 40 horses – half of them owned by the club and half kept at www.bahrainthismonth.com

livery. In fact, the Pony Club is one of the most popular activities on offer and the whole venture is a real bonus for the island’s horsey community.

The club went on to welcome generations of expats and Bahrainis and these days membership is up to about 800. Chairman, Norman Watson, General Manager, Stephen Chartres, and Club Secretary, Clare Bury, are keen to point out that it’s the family atmosphere that makes the place so popular.

“Over the years we’ve had some big nights of entertainment here, such as performances

by Peter Kay, Human League and Toploader,” says Stephen. “Now, we’ve revived the Dilstock Festival, which was really popular around 12 or 13 years ago. That’s coming up this month and then we are also doing Bahrain Rocks working with local artists – which went down really well when we staged it for the first time last year.”

“We do a lot in supporting the local community,” adds Clare, outlining the club’s work with the King’s orphans charity as well as Feed the Need and animal welfare organisations.

“Our focus is also very heavily on major children’s events for Easter, Halloween, Christmas and other high days and holidays,” she says.

Our focus is also very heavily on major children’s events for Easter, Halloween, Christmas and other high days and holidays.”

In fact, the club hosts the Kingdom’s only Rainbows, Brownies and Guides groups, which attract attendants from across the island.

As the anniversary year draws to a close, the major celebration will be a brunch on November 22, priced at just BD4.500 inclusive – not surprisingly, prior booking and payment is required!

And Norma says there are big plans for the future with a refurbishment for the Candles restaurant on the cards and the inauguration of a full-size sports pitch planned for early 2020, which will allow the club to form its own teams to take on local competition.

“We’re very excited about the future,” he says. “It’s great to carry on the legacy of the hard work so many people have put in over the years.”

November 2019 37

interview

BREAKING BARRIERS, CHANGING PERCEPTIONS Ahead of the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships, Shaikh Mohamed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, president of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee (BPC), talks about the importance of sports in assimilating people with disability into mainstream society.

BEHNAZ SANJANA

Shaikh Mohamed bin Duaij Al Khalifa

What are BPC’s main objectives and goals?

Our vision is to stimulate and encourage the growth of the Paralympic sports movement in the Kingdom of Bahrain on the sporting and social levels. Our mission is to provide infrastructure for those with determination, integrating them into society, and giving them equal opportunities with their loved ones to compete in sport, to represent Bahrain in international forums, from the basic to the highest levels of elite competitions, to raise the flag of the Kingdom in international tournaments. We work with the objective of developing sporting infrastructure, hosting Paralympic competitions, and training and empowering national-level athletes.

How is the committee helping para athletes to prepare for international sporting competitions?

The players are trained to overcome their difficulties through structured and supportive training environments and expert coaches from the local community. We oversee their diet and exercise regimens, and provide them with facilities and resources to excel in their competitions. A supportive network is in place to meet their emotional, psychological or physical needs. The Kingdom has been supporting people with impairment in sports for 38 November 2019

Para athletes have the ability to inspire and excite the world; they are people first and foremost and must be treated with respect and dignity.”

decades now through multiple organisations that are dedicated to specific disabilities; the BPC acts as an umbrella to them.

“12 female Para Athletes represented the Kingdom at the 6th GCC Women’s Games in Kuwait last month. They have trained very hard for it and we are immensely proud of each and every one of them.”

Why are sports important for the physically impaired?

Sports play a big role in the immediate and long-term relief of people with impairment. As they are often dealing with health issues (physical and mental), their ability to socialise and develop a healthy level of self-esteem and self-confidence are impacted.

While sports give obvious physical benefits, such as stronger muscles, better cardiovascular and aerobic fitness, and improved motor skills, there are also social, emotional and psychological benefits. They create an environment that allows for such people to meet others like them and make friends. They also learn crucial life skills like teamwork,

cooperation, working towards objectives and handling defeats and disappointments. Selfesteem, leadership and organisational skills also come with team sports.

What values do you hope to instill in the general youth through these players?

Para athletes have the ability to inspire and excite the world; they are people first and foremost and must be treated with respect and dignity. We want the general public, specifically the youth, to embrace inclusion and diversity, understand that people with impairment have the right to contribute to society and enjoy the benefits of true productivity through schooling, employment, and community engagement.

What are the upcoming international tournaments / sporting events that the committee and athletes are preparing for?

We have a large Bahraini para athlete delegation heading to the 9th World Para Athletics Championships in Dubai this month. There are more than 170 gold medals up for grabs. This event provides one of the last opportunities for para athletes to achieve the qualification standards for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, so it will be a significant and defining championship for Bahrain’s para athletes.

Also, Bahrain aims to host the first Para Athletics Boccia Open 2019 in December. This will be an exciting time for us as we prepare our para athletes, volunteers, participating organisations and partners, and our nation, for a historic time in the Paralympic movement of the Kingdom. www.bahrainthismonth.com

interview

www.kinderworldbh.com

Welcome to our world...

Kinder World Preschool Ruba Alomari – Winner of international Shot Put, Discus and Javelin Throw competitions How do you feel when you play and master the sport?

I feel excited and eager to develop so that I can achieve further accomplishments and raise Bahrain’s flag on (international) podiums.

EYFS British curriculum with Arabic programme Dedicated and nurturing staff with over 20 years of experience State of the art, largest purpose built campus in Bahrain with well equipped indoor and outdoor play areas SMART spacious classrooms

ADMISSIONS NOW OPEN (14 months - 4 years)

Zahra Klaeeb – Winner of international Shot Put, Discus and Javelin Throw competitions What motivates you to excel in your sport?

Achieving success and raising Bahrain’s name high.

Scan for Google Map Location

Mariam Al Humaidi – Winner of international Shot Put, Discus and Javelin Throw competitions

Building 550, Road 7908, Block 579 Al Janabiyah, Kingdom of Bahrain info@kinderworldbh.com

T. +973 1779 9922 kinderworld_bh

How much time do you spend training?

I train daily when I have a championship coming up, otherwise it’s every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. www.bahrainthismonth.com

33600097

kinderworldbh

November 2019 39

interview

FROM AN ARTIST’S EYE Sculptor, craftsman and artist, Patrick Oriole S Palacio speaks with Behnaz Sanjana about his mission to turn trash to treasure.

O

riole came upon an idea for his exhibit at a recently held art fair organised by the Philippines Embassy in Bahrain, while enjoying coffee and a pleasant breeze by the waterside in Amwaj.

“I noticed the shoreline littered with plastic bottles,” he says. “I saw it as an ideal medium for a sculpture and thus was born ‘Tylos Pearl’ - it makes onlookers think of the impact of plastic pollution, and also pays tribute to Bahrain’s pearling heritage.”

40 November 2019

Patrick Oriole S Palacio

The installation, which shows two hands enfolding a pearl, is made primarily of plastic refuse, discarded newspaper, cardboard and resin, and finished off with paint. The great reaction Oriole received for his creation sparked the idea for a Bahrain-based ‘Junk to Art’ project in his mind.

“I have collected 20-30kg of plastic trash from along Bahrain’s coast. There’s so much more I see when I go fishing with my brother,” he says. “All I need is a warehouse or unused space to collect plastic trash and transform it into something worthy. I am not asking for any monetary compensation for what I create, only some support by way of displaying my pieces in prominent places – hotels, malls and such public areas, to raise awareness of the importance of recycling and reducing plastic waste.

“I’d like to tie up with charitable institutions to help raise money for their causes.

That is what I aim to do here in Bahrain. Any donations that my art receives will help me to sustain and keep producing more thoughtprovoking art.”

His inspiration for art stems from his childhood days spent in Leyte, a tropical island in the eastern Philippines, where his curiosity about how things were created was overwhelming.

“Roaming a forest and discovering a mystical ecology was ecstasy. I was vividly amazed by

Through my work, I want to create beauty, and show history and culture out of waste.” the form and shape of wild turtles, the mud crab’s shell and claws, the frog’s eyes, the scales of fish, the iguana’s dorsal spines - they were all extremely beautiful. There was a power I felt to recreate the things I saw, but couldn’t find a way to begin.”

When his 16-hectare corn plantation was destroyed by two typhoons, he made cornhusk dolls and sold them to schools to make good of all the waste. “This sparked off my idea of transforming junk to art,” he says.

He went on to participate in many national sculpture competitions and his creative confidence increased with each win. “Once a government-sponsored event called for ideas on creating sculptures using trees felled by the typhoon ‘Milenyo’. I was pleasantly surprised to find my entry – an angel kneeling with outstretched hands – on the front page of three major national newspapers. That felt great,” he remembers.

On commission, Oriole has made some remarkable life-size figurines in his home country, and endeavours to see his dream of converting junk to art in Bahrain come true. He says: “Through my work, I want to create beauty, and show history and culture out of waste. We all have a short time on Earth. Why not do something good for the planet and the people?” www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

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Press Award Ceremony

HRH PM Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa attended the annual Khalifa bin Salman Press Award ceremony to honour senior members of Bahrain’s press corps at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Celebration Atiram management group held its 10th annual grand celebration

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

November 2019 41

luxuryfeature

With the region’s biggest jewellery event just around the corner, we’re taking a look at pure, unadulterated luxury from cars to holidays to that all-important bling.

What better place to start than a chat with Bahrainbased snapper Matt Wardle, who was chosen to shoot that apex of luxury – the Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII?

LUXE 101 T

he classic appeal of ‘the best car in the world’, is undoubted. It has graced some of the most formative moments of the 20th and 21st centuries with an assuring, silent and sophisticated presence.

It is the motor car that proudly counts many of the world’s most influential and revered individuals among its wealthy collectors.

Matt, one of the Kingdom’s most acclaimed and well-known photographers, was invited to create Phantom Photography inspired by Rolls-Royce’s ‘Rules Rewritten’ campaign.

Designed to show the Phantom’s broad appeal to a generation who are firmly in the driving seat of their own destiny, Matt’s images captured the limitless opportunities for luxury and adventure this iconic motor car offers.

He says: “When Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Bahrain approached me to shoot the Phantom, I had real mixed emotions.

“Rolls-Royce is without doubt the most prestigious luxury car brand in the world. How to do justice to a car that’s built on one of the greatest heritage stories ever?

“I’ve shot cars and bikes a fair amount as I’m a full-on petrol head, so I guess this would be right up there with one of the best. Who wouldn’t love to shoot a Phantom?”

Explaining the story behind the pictures, he says: “The brief from Rolls-Royce was brilliant. Based on the concept of ‘rules re-written’ we wanted to show the Rolls as a car that rocked the status quo and carved its own path.

“The overarching concept is ‘work, rest, play’. The story features a 42 November 2019

central character and three states of the Phantom. The first is the journey, in this case the desert scene is the alternative path that our character is taking to work.

“Second is rest. This really is a nod to the Rolls-Royce spirit of ecstasy, the ballerina ads a lightness to powerful and driven women.

“Finally, we have play – shot in the souk and showing our central character and her friend lighting up the night with the Phantom.”

And the fact that the images have a strong cinematic bent is no coincidence. Matt continues: “I’m a big Ridley Scott fan with Bladerunner being one of the most ground-breaking and influential films that’s inspired me, for most of my career. I love the narrative and visual approach. It’s pure genius. The film noir aspect really drove the aesthetic that I wanted to recreate. Also, Bladerunner is set in November 2019... the perfect homage!”

The pictures feature a woman firmly in the driving seat and Matt says this was very much part of the story he wanted to create. “Absolutely.

She’s a reflection of the spirit. Powerful, in-control of her own destiny.

Driven and determined. It’s a trait I see in the women around me, especially the Bahrainis.”

As the dominant symbol of wealth and achievement, no other vehicle has come close to matching the impact the Rolls-Royce Phantom continues to have on the world.

Stepping through the famous coach doors into the Phantom is an event in itself, and a particular thrill for owners who choose to get behind the wheel themselves instead of being driven. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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The interior is crafted from a mix of precious and contemporary materials, with every switch made from metal, glass or wrapped in leather.

Hailed as a new concept in luxury, ‘The Gallery’ is an onboard artistic feature wholly unique to the Rolls-Royce Phantom. A first for any vehicle of any size, style of stature, ‘The Gallery’ allows for three-dimensional artworks to be installed in the dashboard behind a frame of glass.

Serving as the ultimate act of self-expression, the artistic possibilities of the ‘The Gallery’ along with the ‘self-drive appeal’ of the Phantom make this Rolls-Royce the premier choice for drivers looking to transcend the traditional and make their mark on the world in bespoke, luxurious style.

Rashid Z Al Zayani, who is Marketing Manager for the brand at dealership Euro Motors, says: “Matt’s fantastic photographs have captured an exciting new way of looking at the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

They speak directly to a modern, youthful and dynamic audience who truly appreciate the motor car’s ‘self-drive appeal’.

“The Phantom is an iconic motor car that has been at the pinnacle of automotive luxury for generations. With these beautiful photos a new audience of owners is invited to step behind the wheel and discover the true definition of excellence with a Rolls-Royce Phantom.”

Matt concludes: “I’d also like to add that none of this would have been possible without my brilliant team, Maram, Fida, Hady and Mo. Plus the models from mattyB and my amazing client who gave me total creative freedom.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2019 43

luxuryfeature

THE CAR’S THE ST R Having started off with the Roller, we looked at some of the world’s other high-end motors, some of which we’d never even heard of.

B

e truthful, could you really call to mind the top ten most expensive cars on the planet, according to CEOWorld Magazine?

1. Bugatti’s La Voiture Noire – USD19 million 2. Rolls-Royce Sweptails – USD13 million 3. Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita – USD4.8 million 4. Lamborghini Veneno Roadster – USD4.5 million 5. Mclaren P1 LM – USD3.6 million 6. Lykan Hypersport – USD3.4 million 7. Bugatti Veyron by Mansory Vivere – USD3.4 million 8. Aston Martin Valkryie – USD3.2 million 9. Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio – USD3 million 10. Pagani Huayra BC – USD2.8 million.

Number one on the list will elude you, even if you have USD19 million lying around in pocket change. Described by Bugatti’s Chairman Stephan Winkelmann as “a combination of speed, technology, luxury and aesthetics,” it’s actually a one-off, the ultimate limited edition.

Others, such as the McLaren, are household 44 November 2019

names, thanks to their racing heritage. The P1 LM is another uber limited-edition with just a handful built – but look out for motoring correspondent Dick’s close encounter with the McLaren GT in next month’s issue.

Still others have gained fame through their cinematic connections – name Bond ring a bell anyone? Though of course the super-spy drove the Aston Martin DB series long before he got his hands on the Valkyrie.

But, what of the Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita – only two ever built – or the Pagani Huayra BC, a veritable commoner with production runs in double figures?

There’s no doubt that these supercars are a certain kind of luxury with their eyewatering price tags and racetrack-worthy performance figures. But they’re also rare and, pretty much, confined to the world of the super-wealthy collector who also happens to be a serious petrol-head – or, somewhat tragically, wants them as investment pieces.

For the mere mortals among us, luxury can take on another incarnation – perhaps best described as everyday opulence.

Vehicles like the Maserati Quattroporte; while not quite so sporty, it undoubtedly has a certain presence. For sheer elegance the Bentley Flying Spur and Continental both take some beating.

If you like your luxury with a touch of street cred, the Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet is the one for you. Sleek and spacious enough to perform as a family motor, just drop that hood and you’re the coolest dude on the corniche.

An added bonus, it even comes with its own luggage set!

And, of course, no consideration of luxury cars would be complete without a mention of one of Bahrain’s favourites, the Porsche Panamera. It looks super sporty and drives like a dream, not to mention garnering lots of admiring looks at the traffic lights.

In all honesty, the biggest luxury any of us can ask from our vehicles is the promise of safety (boy racers excluded). And while the supercars might be the stars of the genre, their production runs are limited for a reason. Most of us actually prefer the performance and price tag of our everyday opulence models. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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THE LUXURY OF TIME T

hese days we all lead ever more hectic lives and, if you ask the truly busy person, even really efficient ones, what they would consider as luxury; the answer will often be time! We can’t promise you extra hours in the day, but we can suggest some truly stunning timepieces on which to keep track of them.

WARRIOR SPIRIT Introducing the Panerai Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech a real instrument for survival: a professional underwater watch with remarkable technical characteristics and a decidedly military look, dedicated to the historic partnership between the company and the Italian Navy.

It fully deserves the designation Survival Instrument which is engraved on the back. The 47mm case is made of carbotech, a material based on carbon fibre which was introduced into the world of high-quality watchmaking by Panerai. It is both lighter than titanium and stronger than stainless steel. The special composition of this material – consisting of extremely thin layers of carbon fibre bound together by a special polymer – gives every individual watch a unique, unrepeatable camouflage appearance, which is reflected in the design of the dial made of carbon, with the date window at 3 o’clock and the small seconds hand at 9 o’clock.

Available through Asia Jewellers.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

X-RAY VISION Ulysse Nardin has come up with the next generation of haute horlogerie in the Skeleton X – where design defines function.

The new manufacture movement lays bare its audacious technology in an exquisite exhibition of fine watchmaking’s most challenging technique. Inner beauty revealed, not concealed: this open-worked wonder takes skeletonisation to the X-level. Bold and powerful, it is an X-ray interpretation of the future of watchmaking design, where we see everything, including the very architecture and functioning of time. If you’ve got it, flaunt it. The Skeleton X leaves nothing to the imagination.

Available through Asia Jewellers.

A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend and Patek Philippe’s latest ladies’ watch, the Twenty-4 Automatic has taken the saying to heart. It presents timeless elegance in a rose gold Haute Joaillerie model that celebrates the beauty of the iconic design. The dial, bezel, crown and bracelet are paved with diamonds presented in a ‘random’ or ‘snow’ setting.

Within this precious case beats a caliber 324 S self-winding movement, noted for its meticulous finishes, which can be admired through the sapphire crystal case back.

Available through Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

HERITAGE HORLOGERIE A brilliant advertising campaign states that “You never own a Patek Philippe, you merely look after it for the next generation.” Those words come to mind on viewing the latest Ref. 5905 which unites two of the maker’s complications that are highly prized amongst connoisseurs – a self-winding flyback chronograph and a patented Annual Calendar. The model now comes in a new version with a rose gold case and brown sunburst dial, gradually grading to black at the periphery ensuring the attraction will never fade.

Available through Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

THE THINKER The latest offering from Bovet is the Récital 26 Brainstorm Chapter One which comes with a stunning green quartz dial. The case is sapphire in a ‘writing slope’ and to accentuate its transparency, the power reserve is displayed via a printed cam that shows the energy available through a crescent-shaped indicator placed at 4 o’clock. The watch contains just 60 movements and, as is customary, Bovet will produce a limited number of timepieces equal only to the number of movements.

Available through Asia Jewellers.

November 2019 45

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THAT BLING THING Few things say luxury like gold and diamonds, precious materials beloved of both jewellers and their customers.

But, these days, it’s no longer enough just to display giant rocks, style-conscious clients want something a little different, to make them stand out from the crowd.

These pieces will do just that.

HERE COMES THE SUN Since her first collection of High Jewellery, which was presented in Basel in 2013, Valérie Messika has continued to chalk up success after success, with pieces characterised by unique diamond expertise, technical virtuosity and a resolutely contemporary feminine aesthetic. Currently much loved on the celebrity scene, her designs are contemporary with a touch of classic. This gorgeous bracelet from the Sun Tribe Collection is dazzling.

Available through Asia Jewellers.

INSPIRED BY CALIGRAPHY Think of diamonds and Graff is one of just a few names that spring to mind.

The house is well-known for its amazing one-off creations but it also has an impressive set of collections that are perfect for the modern woman to show her individuality. The ‘Inspired by Twombly’ collection features highquality diamonds in the shape of calligraphic paint strokes with scintillating spirals flowing playfully from one stone to the next.

Available through Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

FLUTTERBY De Beers is another of those names that will be forever associated with diamonds, but the house is also known for the innovation of its design, such as in these beautiful butterfly rings which are sure to catch the eye, particularly if worn as multiples.

Available through AJM Kooheji Group.

THE ULTIMATE ENTANGLEMENT The French Brand Akillis, founded by Caroline Gaspard in 2007, celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2017. It displays cutting-edge know-how in jewellery making and precision. Her workshops can handle any challenge presented. From creating a seamlessly smooth and rounded hollow bullet, to the intertwining titanium shapes of these Capture Me bracelets – perhaps the ultimate sign of commitment.

Available through Bahrain Jewellery Centre.

46 November 2019

ARTISTIC COLLABORATION Rafrafa, the first of Devji Aurum’s Art Collection, launched in collaboration with renowned Bahraini sculptor and artist, Khalil Al Hashimi. Inspired by the artist’s monumental bird sculpture, the collection is a translation of an iconic dialogue between the colossal world of sculpture and the delicate world of jewellery, handcrafted in 18k gold and diamonds.

Available at Devji Aurum boutiques and Devji Since 1950. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The Finishing Touches AIRPORT ENVY Grab a set of Louis Vuitton cases and travel bags, but make sure you watch out for them on the luggage console, they will induce a serious touch of the green eye.

HIT THE SHOPS Gucci’s unmistakable and also unmissable tote is just the thing for those who want to be seen. The black and yellow colourway adds a hint of sobriety but the stripe really says it all.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

ARM CANDY The iconic Hermès Birkin Bag has gained a following so large that there is a waiting list for each new limited-edition issue – despite rare models, such as this one, fetching more than USD50,000 at auction!

luxuryfeature So, you’ve got the car, the watch and the diamonds but there’s still a little something else you need before you head off on that luxury holiday – accessories, or in this case baggage.

THE DEVIL WEARS...

The unisex Saffiano leather briefcase from Prada is just the thing if you want to establish sartorial superiority.

CASH KEEPER If you have the cash for any or all of the above, you probably want to keep hold of it. So, you’ll need the Dunhill Biometric Wallet – said to be the world’s most secure, it only opens with a biometric fingerprint reader and sounds an alarm if more than 5m from the owner’s Bluetooth phone signal.

November 2019 47

luxuryfeature

ETHEREAL EXPERIENCES Luxury Travel Around The World

Gone are the days where ‘luxury travel’ only meant spending the big bucks. Today, it’s all about boarding and lodging in unimaginable places that will indulge, enthuse and stun the senses, discovers Behnaz Sanjana.

GLAMP IN THE ROCKIES BE ONE WITH THE MARINE WORLD A trip to the Maldives is on the bucket list of even the least intrepid traveller, but how about falling asleep under a 180-degree curved acrylic dome submerged five metres below sea level that allows you to watch marine life glide by? It’s possible, if you stay at The Muraka, an uber-luxurious part of the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort.

Guests enjoy plush accommodation and amenities on the upper level of this first-of-its-kind, luxury two-level residence, and can make their way to their private underwater master bedroom in the Indian Ocean with floor-to-ceiling windows and a dedicated tunnel viewing theater.

Glamping is the glamourous take on regular camping, and what better place to experience it than in a luxury tented safari on the edge of the world, in the heart of the Great North’s wild? Take a short flight over the Pacific Ocean to Canada’s Vancouver Island and stay in five-star tenting accommodation. Then board a helicopter to a secluded peak overlooking a peaceful lake at a staggering height of over 1,300 metres to drink in the glorious wilderness for a few nights. This extravagant glamping set-up offers heli-hiking the surrounding trails, exploring the lake in well-appointed kayaks and dining al fresco under the stars with a personal chef and butler, for an out-of-this-world travel experience.

WEAR YOUR CROWN Transport yourself to the era of the Maharajas and be treated like royalty as you experience palace living at the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. Located in Rajasthan, India, it is touted to be one of the most romantic destinations ever, set on Lake Pichola with all-round views of the stately city. The former summer escape of the royals of Mewar, it was built in 1743, and converted into a hotel in the 1960s. Stroll by the original fountains and fretwork, admire the delicately latticed windows, and reside in a room that is, well, fit for a king. Dine on the rich cuisine of the region and pamper yourself at the world-class spa. This is true opulence exemplified!

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

luxuryfeature AN ENIGMATIC ENGINE Travel in ultimate style through the evocative beauty of the southern island of Kyushu, Japan aboard the Seven Stars. This glistening, burgundy train has a timeless elegance characterised by quintessential Japanese style. The interiors showcase the best in Japanese craftsmanship ­rosewood and maple walls, walnut floors, shoji paper screens for window coverings and elegant glass doors etched with Oriental flora and fauna. The train makes a round trip from Hakatato, cruising at a leisurely pace over the striking landscapes of Kyushu island, renowned for a stunning volcanic landscape of national parks and hot springs.

This exclusive, 21st century rail marvel is made up of seven cars with a total capacity of only 28 passengers.

INTO THE DORMANT DRAGON Date night in Iceland can’t get more other-worldly than dining in the interior of the Thrihnukagigur Volcano - the only place on earth where one can explore a magma chamber on the inside of a volcano. A guided tour takes you inside a dormant volcano, through the top crater and to the bottom of its magma chamber, once filled with steaming hot lava. It has not erupted for 4,000 years and shows no signs of coming to life again anytime soon. Its bottle-shaped dome is so massive that the Statue of Liberty could stand inside it. A London-based tour operator can facilitate a private banquet inside the volcano starting at $14,000. Credit card, please!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2019 49

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Malaysian Cooking In conjunction with the 45th anniversary of Malaysia-Bahrain Diplomatic Relations, the Malaysian Embassy in cooperation with Lulu Hypermarket held a live cooking demonstration at Ramli Mall, A’Ali

To view more images, scan the QR code

Kinder World Pre-School Inauguration Under the patronage of HE Jameel bin Mohamed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of The Labour Market Regulatory Authority Board of Directors, an inauguration ceremony was held for Kinder World Pre-school in Janabiyah

50 November 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

Refresh from Within Discover a natural paradise at The Westin City Centre Bahrain.

Whether you seek relaxation or invigoration, our Heavenly Spa by WestinŽ offers a menu of services for deep revitalization and invigorating bath experience at our Royal Hammam – ensuring that you leave feeling better than when you arrived.

Call +973 1717 1122 for bookings or visit www.heavenlyspabahrain.com

most comprehensive source of

Be a part of the

information available on the industry, covering passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, service centres, specialist suppliers and automotive services throughout the Kingdom.

Call to get listed!

Red House Marketing P.O. Box 20461, Manama Kingdom of Bahrain Tell.: +973 17 813-777 Fax: +973 17 813-700 Mob.: +973 3444-5136

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To view more images, scan the QR code

Brunch-oke JJ’s Irish Restaurant held a Brunch-oke event

German Ale Party

A German Ale Beach Fest was held at Coral Bay Resort Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

Jack Daniel’s Birthday Bash Caribbean Party

A Caribbean Pool and Beach Party was held at Coral Bay Resort Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

JJ’s Irish Restaurant presented Jack Daniel’s Birthday Bash

To view more images, scan the QR code

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

November 2019 53

MOTORING THIS MONTH

NEW MODEL DEBUT, p56

A COOL COUPÉ, p56

MY LIFE IN CARS

Dick Potter reflects on motoring music.

A

pparently, we spend, on average, 101 minutes each day driving. Believe me, I have no idea who calculated that figure. Apart from our four-wheeled friends carting us off to work, school runs, the mall/golf course/dentists – you get the picture – they also afford us freedom and independence. We can consider them to be a bit of an extension of ourselves.

Regardless of what type of car you own – a sleek sedan, SUV or a sporty number – chances are, one thing many of us do in our cars is play music. I was cruising along the other day, humming along to some tunes on the radio – those amongst my regular fans know that I drive a few fairly dated cars, one actually has a cassette player, which still works mind you! Two of the songs played on my trip were about cars.

That got me to thinking – it doesn’t take much – how many songs have been written about cars and, perhaps more importantly, what’s the story behind the song? So, here’s a few of my favourites and a bit of background on them thrown in for good measure Pink Cadillac by Natalie Cole. Miss Cole nails this 1988 hit, which (I didn’t know) was originally sung by Bruce Springsteen. In the song, the narrator has the eye for a chap for his pink Cadillac which apparently sported crushed velvet seats. Hmm, seems strange that a woman would be attracted to a chap for his car?

Or perhaps it was the crushed velvet seats then?!

Cars by Gary Numan. The chap in this 1979 song describes his car as his sanctuary from the world – see, that’s pretty much what I wrote in my introduction! He seems to be having some problems coping and retreats to the security of his car where he www.bahrainthismonth.com

can think better. Well, if you don’t have a garden shed or a man-cave, there’s always the car I suppose.

Drive by The Cars. The singer in this 1984 song sees himself to be the steadiest, most reliable influence in his friend’s life. He asks the friend rhetorical questions about who is going to do specific things for him such as: tell him when it’s too late; pick him up when he falls; and, kindly enough, drive him home tonight. Don’t we all need a nice friend like that chap?

THE LEGEND IS BACK, p58

LIMITED EDITION, p58

Mercedes Benz by Janis Joplin. The iconic singer recorded this 1970 a cappella song three days before her untimely death. It was released the following year.

The song takes a jab at consumerism, as Janis asks her maker to buy her an expensive car, a colour TV and a night on the town. Now, I have no idea why she asked for an expensive car since she famously drove a 1965 Porsche 356c Cabriolet. She (allegedly) paid one of her roadies USD500 to paint a psychedelic mural on the car. I might argue she could have saved that USD500 – to say nothing of the poor Porsche – and bought her own colour TV with enough left over for a night on the town.

Highway to Hell by AC/DC. This song title was also the name of an album which supposedly arose in response to a reporter asking band members what life was like being constantly on tour. Band member, Angus Young apparently replied that it was “a (insert expletive) highway to hell”. Your song of choice for tomorrow morning’s trip to the office perhaps?!

View more info online

Let me know your favourite car songs on dick@ redhousemarketing.com November 2019 55

motoring news

I

nternational Motor Trading Agency (IMTA) has unveiled the allnew Mazda3 which is now available at the company’s showrooms in Sitra and Tubli.

The vehicle adopts a matured design language that attempts to embody the essence of Japanese aesthetics. Despite sharing the Mazda3 moniker, the hatchback and sedan models have distinct personalities—the design of the hatchback is emotive, the sedan elegant.

The powertrain lineup comprises the latest Skyactiv-X, Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-D engines, each of which provides responsive speed control in any driving situation. Based on its philosophy of designing the car around the human, Mazda has dramatically enhanced the fundamental driving attributes such that accelerating, turning and braking feel completely natural.

IMTA is also planning to showcase Mazda’s signature model MX-5 in the near future.

A

NEW MODEL DEBUT

B

ehbehani Brothers showcased the launch of the latest offering from Porsche, the fastback SUV Cayenne Coupé.

The much-anticipated new model has a new body shape, which brings to mind the 911. It features the same 3.0-litre, mono-turbo V6 as the standard Cayenne, generating 335hp and maximum torque of 450Nm. This can be turned into a 0-60 sprint in 5.7 seconds. Other engine sizes are also available.

The new model carries two spoilers, very big on street cred, one of which is adaptive and extends at high speed increasing downforce to the rear axle. A standard feature is a large panoramic fixed glass roof.

And, as always, with the Porsche DNA, you can expect both the performance and appearance the connoisseur is accustomed to.

USED STORIES

l Haddad Motors has introduced exclusive offers on all Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-owned vehicles which are now inclusive of a three-year service package. They also include the remainder of the vehicle’s five-year warranty.

Additionally, all vehicles under Mercedes-Benz Certified brand fulfil strict technical standards where each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive multi-point inspection by trained technicians. This extensive scrutiny includes exterior and interior checks, mileage and service record verification as proof that the vehicle has been fully serviced and maintained by authorised dealers.

A COOL COUPÉ

B

ehbehani Brothers has inaugurated the Kingdom’s brand-new ŠKODA showroom at Sitra.

The Czech car maker appointed Behbehani Brothers as its official dealer in Bahrain to provide sales and after-sales services. The move marks a new era for ŠKODA in the Kingdom.

The new facility can showcase up to 10 cars and will present the range of ŠKODA vehicles carefully optioned to suit the desires of customers in the kingdom. During the launch ceremony, four ŠKODA models were unveiled; Fabia, Octavia, Superb and the top of the line seven-seater SUV, the Kodiaq. ŠKODA was founded during the pioneering days of the automobile, in 1895, making it one of the longest-established car companies in the world. It currently offers nine passenger-car series: the Citigo, Fabia, Rapid, Scala, Octavia, Karoq, Kodiaq, as well as the Kamiq and the Superb.

The company delivered more than 1.25 million vehicles to customers around the world in 2018.

OM O R W SHO D E H C N LAU

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www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Fiesta Espaniola InterContinental Regency Bahrain held a Fiesta Espaniola featuring Spanish cuisines, celebrity Spanish chef, Jordi Gimeno, and Spanish dance group, Sarsare Flamenco

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

To view more images, scan the QR code

November 2019 57

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THE LEGEND IS BACK

brahim K. Kanoo, the exclusive distributor of Toyota vehicles in the Kingdom, has delighted sports car enthusiasts with the launch of the fifth-generation Toyota GR Supra at its showroom in Sitra.

The eagerly-awaited return of the iconic vehicle is set to delight Supra fans and inspire a new generation with its stunning design, high-octane performance and exciting driving experience.

The all-new GR Supra is the first Toyota global model developed entirely by GAZOO Racing (GR). Its launch marks the end of a 17-year hiatus since production of the previous generation concluded in 2002.

As before, the 2020 GR Supra is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicle powered by an inline six-cylinder engine. Extensive attention has also been paid to the fundamental elements of wheelbase, tread and centre of gravity, thus achieving superior handling performance befitting a pure sports car.

The 3.0-litre turbocharged engine produces up to 335hp and 500Nm of torque and the eight-speed automatic transmission delivers speedy up and down shifts, and features paddle shifters for manual control when desired.

The vehicle comes in a range of eight colours and features upgrades across the range from aesthetics to driving and safety technology.

LIMITED EDITION

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PL E A S S E

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he new Abarth 695 70° Anniversario special edition was recently presented in Milan to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Abarth & C. brand and to pay homage to the ingenuity of its founder Carlo Abarth (1908 1979), who was the first to understand the potential of tuning and technical upgrading on standard production cars.

Produced in just 1949 units, which was the year the company was founded, the new limited edition is the most important of the sequence of tributes presented during this year’s celebrations.

The looks of the new model pick up some iconic style cues both past and present, such as the Record Monza active exhaust for an unmistakable sound, the new Monza 1958 green livery (a tribute to the colour of the first 500 Abarth that set six international records at Monza that year), the many Campovolo grey details, including the “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile”, the Body Kit, the front and rear DAMs and the mirror caps.

The same colour is used for the Scorpion stickers on the bonnet and the chequered sticker on the roof to reassert its sporty look.

The new model will be available in the Middle East in early 2020.

W TY E R N

T

P

irelli and the BMW Group continue their long-standing cooperation with the most recent project being the custom-made variation of Pirelli’s ultra-high performance P Zero tyre for the new BMW M8.

This individual version of the P Zero was the result of the close cooperation between the development and testing departments of Pirelli and the BMW Group over several years. Applying Pirelli’s Perfect Fit philosophy, a version of the P Zero tailored to the driving characteristics of the BMW M8 was developed. It is precisely tuned to the chassis and characteristics of the M8 variants, which the BMW Group offers as a coupé and a cabriolet.

Compared to the original P Zero, the variant delivers better performance in terms of lap time, dry handling, wet handling, consistency, braking performance, straight hydroplaning, lateral hydroplaning, weight, comfort, noise and mileage. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

DJ Roberto Mermand

Coda Jazz Lounge and Vibes presented DJ Roberto Mermand all the way from the UK at Atiram Premier Hotel

To view more images, scan the QR code

Vine, Dine and Jazz Coda Jazz Lounge was back with its Vine, Dine and Jazz Mondays

NYE 2019 and XMAS advert.pdf 12/10/2019 18:38:32

NEW YEARS EVE PARTY TUE DEC 31ST

K C A B TO

The BBBF Poppy Ball in conjunction with the bba

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

Join us with VIP Guests of Honour ‘The Chelsea Pensioners’ In support of The Chelsea Pensioners Appeal Mother and Child Welfare Society – Bahrain

K

FRIDAY 15th of November from 7pm GULF hotel BAHRAIN AL DANA BALLROOM Tickets: BD35 members and non-members DRESS code: formal Tickets can be purchased from the following outlets by cash or cheque, payable to Bahrain British Business Forum: British Club Reception – 1772-8245 Bahrain Rugby Football Club Reception – 1769-5809 Dilmun Club – 1769-0926 For more details or to reserve a table contact the BBBF Office Email bbbfevents@ batelco.com.bh or telephone 1781-3488

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

Win two British Airways Business Class return tickets to London

L O O SCH

featuring DJ TIN TIN

DISCO

BllD-inc1lu8sive a

ge

packa

** All inclusive package from 9pm until 2am ** ** Wide range of selected beverages ** ** Early booking highly recommended **

4TH FLOOR, PREMIER HOTEL, JUFFAIR 33640009 - 33536448

@wembleylounge

Christmas bookings also now being taken

ask us for full details

November 2019 59

bystander

& Guy launched Label. M, a professional haircare Label. M Launch Toni product at City Centre Bahrain

To view more images, scan the QR code

White Beach Party was held at the Four White Beach Party ASeasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Beach

To view more images, scan the QR code

60 November 2019

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bystander

10th Anniversary

A Capital Club Cirque event was held to celebrate the club’s 10th anniversary

Dutch Dinner

In the framework of the Dutch Healthy Food Week, the Dutch Embassy and its partners shared knowledge, expertise and a meal at The Capital Club to demonstrate delicious Dutch healthy food with Chef Cees Goettsch from the Netherlands preparing a Dutch veal speciality

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

November 2019 61

business bites

NEW WHOLESALE HEAD Manama-headquartered Gulf International Bank BSC (GIB) has appointed Khaled Abbas, a seasoned banker with more than two decades of experience, as Group Head of Wholesale Banking at GIB. He takes on the role having served as GIB’s Country Head for the UAE, where he oversaw continued growth in the UAE market. Prior to joining GIB, he held senior positions at Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Samba Financial Group and Banque Saudi Fransi.

Khaled holds a BSc in Business Studies from the Lebanese American University, Beirut, and has obtained executive education degrees from both Darden Business School at the University of Virginia and INSEAD.

CONSUMER CONSCIOUS Citi Bahrain recently appointed Christoph Geidner as the Consumer Business Head for Bahrain.

Christoph is not new to Citi, his last role in 2015 was Head of Alliances and New Business for Citi EMEA Cards based in London. He originally joined the bank in 2008 in London as a consumer management associate and progressed into several roles including Chief of Staff Middle East Consumer and Credit Card Portfolio Cluster Head UAE, Bahrain & Egypt.

Christoph re-joins Citi from Commercial Bank International (CBI) in the UAE. Christoph holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering & IT from Technical University of Munich, Germany, as well as an MBA from Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Quizzing Champs The seventh Annual Bahrain Business Quiz Show took place over five rounds with Team BBK taking this year’s top spot and Gulf Air coming in second.

The event is held in partnership with Tamkeen and attracts the participation of leading Bahraini corporates from various sectors. The fun and friendly contest is aimed at showcasing the talent and skills that exist across key industry sectors in Bahrain and this year featured nights dedicated to banking, insurance, services and industrial.

The first prize was BD1,000 and four airline tickets from Dadabhai Travels , which went to BBK who were competing for the seventh time to clock up a second win.

SMART AWARDS VIVA Bahrain received two awards at the Bahrain Smart Cities Summit 2019 – Best Smart City Solution and Best Smart Real Estate Solution for its technology innovation across different industries.

The city award recognised the company’s role in Bahrain’s ICT growth and the introduction of smart security solutions such as facial recognition, number plate recognition and people counting systems which can be deployed in shopping malls, airports, public parks and major highways and roads across the Kingdom.

The real estate solution, highlighted VIVA’s collaborations with various real estate developers in areas such as smart parking, smart lighting and smart AC control systems, smart curtains and smart irrigation systems. These solutions have enabled businesses to respond effectively to their customers’ needs, enhancing the wellbeing and productivity while simultaneously saving operational costs and increasing building efficiency.

62 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

business bites

D E N IG S T N E M E E R G A K R PA Bahrain Real Estate Investment Company (Edamah), the property arm of the Kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund, signed a lease and development agreement with Mayasem Holding to establish and operate an educational park in Isa Town’s education district.

Realising there was an absence of a project of this nature in the Kingdom, Mayasem envisioned a pioneering educational park to serve as a onestop-shop facility that offers children, adults and entrepreneurs specialised educational programmes and training in an eco-friendly and creative learning environment.

Spread across 16,293sq/m, the park

is the first of its kind in the Kingdom. It will boast state-of-the-art design and a unique learning experience operating after study and encouraging parents to join in the learning process.

Its fully equipped education centres and halls will be leased to schools and institutions enabling them to conduct lectures, workshops, hands-on training programmes, as well as theatre and art production classes. In addition to offering the core subjects, the park seeks to collaborate with educational centres to offer specialised courses in diverse areas of study ranging from special needs education to liberal arts, robotics and more.

DRUG PROGRAMME LAUNCHED

TECH TRIUMPH Viacloud Telecom has won one of the region’s most recognised awards.

The company triumphed at the Bahrain TechAwards 2019, held in partnership with GITEX Dubai. It was nominated for its Cloud PBX (brand name BusinessPBX), which is a high-end Cloud PBX solution using Atmovia technology designed to UK standards. BusinessPBX is hosted on the world’s leading cloud partner, Amazon Web Services (AWS).

It is a managed service by Viacloud and includes telephone lines and phone numbers. All changes, maintenance, upgrades, etc are done remotely, avoiding the need for site visits or on-site technical teams. And BusinessPBX can re-use legacy office communication systems and provide the latest features in a simple pay-per-user model, providing the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO). www.bahrainthismonth.com

Experts have warned that indiscriminate use of antibiotics is having an adverse effect on human health with bacteria showing resistance to medication.

In order to curtail the overuse of antibiotics among patients, Bahrain Specialist Hospital has implemented an Antibiotic Stewardship Programme that helps minimise prescription of the drugs to bare necessity.

The hospital has dedicated necessary human, financial and information technology resources for the effective execution of the programme and it is regularly monitoring antibiotic prescribing and resistance patterns, alongside regularly reporting information on antibiotic use and resistance to doctors, nurses and relevant staff while educating clinicians on resistance and optimal prescribing.

“When bacteria are regularly exposed to antibiotics, they begin to show strong resistance to the medicine, a characteristic that is passed on when they multiply. Not only that, they can transfer this resistance to other bacteria as well,” says Dr Kasim Ardati, the hospital’s MD. November 2019 63

commerce

THE BUSINESS OF

L

ASPIRATIONS

Market Cap (USD Billion) ouis Vuitton is among the LVMH Moet Hennessey Louis Vuitton 211.2 largest companies in the L'Oreal SA 151.0 world with a market Christian Dior SE 89.2 capitalisation of more than Hermes International 74.6 USD210 billion. Hermès is at Kering SA 65.8 74.6 billion and the more retail, Ferrari NV 29.8 yet luxury, Apple has a market Burberry Group Plc 10.4 cap of USD1 trillion! How and Source: Bloomberg , as of 11th October 2019 why do brands offer products at such high prices? Because, it makes for a fantastic business model.

Low Going back to basics, if a product fulfils basic Aspirations needs, such as basic food items, it is usually driven by low margins and high volumes. As we Wants Medium to High move up the demand curve, we have products like affordable but branded clothing such as a Zara or an H&M product or a mid-range Sedan, Needs High these are priced higher, may or may not have better margins and are still driven by volumes.

WHERE’S THE LUXE? At the top end of the curve we see the ultraluxury brands – the “unaffordable” or “aspirational” brands that most of us would like to purchase “someday”. These brands are priced at levels where the margins are high, the volumes are low and yet, sales stay steady.

To many who don’t subscribe to luxury brands, the concept of even wanting to spend so much money on a single product often seems absurd.

A bag, after all, is a bag; a car has a purpose of taking us from one point to the other. How much of a better experience can these basic activities provide even at a higher price?

EXPERIENCES NOT PRODUCTS But therein lies the catch: these businesses are not in the business of the products they offer.

64 November 2019

Price Sensitivity

They are in the business of branding, marketing and creating experiences.

Every aspect of the product is a story and the creation of an image. The exclusivity of the advertising methods, the location of the retail outlets, the brand ambassadors, the creation story they tell – it’s all meant to transform the product into an experience.

And experiences make for very profitable businesses since the concept of “experience” is intangible by its very nature. Also, experiences are often easier to make aspirational. So, if a person can afford a basic sedan, rather than being satisfied, the likelihood is that they desire the experience of a luxury sedan. And when your product becomes a “goal”, you know you can rarely go wrong.

Financial expert Pria Masson Tanwar on financial viability of luxury living.

The other advantage of experience products is that they can be transferred on to other products. So, Ferrari is not just a sports car anymore. It is also an experience in racing. It’s also the brand behind theme parks. Armani is not just about clothes and accessories, it’s also about luxury hotels and apartments. These brands are symbols of a common experience and the target audience attributes a value to that experience and hence pays a premium for it.

MONEY GOES TO MONEY The target audience is usually price insensitive and or even inversely sensitive i.e. higher prices can mean more demand. So, usually, in recessions, sales are often steady. Aspirational, scalable and price insensitive – all the markings of an excellent business model.

However, on the flipside, luxury can be very risky business. There is a very old adage that goes “it takes money to make money” and it is nowhere truer than in the luxury space.

Even though the capital costs can appear to be low, they are in fact quite high. This is because, to create that experience, every bit of interaction with any external entity is part of that experience. In other words, real estate, brand ambassadors, marketing experts, office space etc, all must speak of luxury – which translates to high levels of expense. And these are intangible expenses. The real estate can be sold, but, all other aspects are not recoverable in any way – hence the downward slide can be fast and slippery.

“Consumers are not loyal to cheap commodities. They crave the unique, the remarkable, the human”. This line from Linchpin by Seth Godin, to me, forms the basis of the luxury industry; and explains why these businesses thrive.

You can follow Pria on Instagram at money_ cues or visit http://www.i2d-consulting.com to know more about her professional experience. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Oktoberfest Oktoberfest was held at

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa

To view more images, scan the QR code

Media Dinner

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa held a media dinner table at Kontiki Restaurant

To view more images, scan the QR code

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November 2019 65

bystander

Porsche Cayenne Coupe Launch

Porsche Centre Bahrain held a launch at Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay, for the new Cayenne CoupĂŠ

To view more images, scan the QR code

Yamaha Smart Rhythms Ambassador Stores presented Smart Rhythms Bahrain 2019 at City Centre Bahrain allowing visitors to feel and experience Yamaha

To view more images, scan the QR code

Monte Carlo Night The Capital Club held a Monte Carlo Night to celebrate the birthday of Rajeeb

66 November 2019

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G N I DIN onth this m

LA DOLCE VITA, p68

SURREAL SPLENDOUR Behnaz Sanjana returned from Reef Clubhouse’s Lagoon Moon Floating Restaurant with appetite fully satiated, hair windswept and heart buoyant.

O

ne Saturday afternoon, we were braving the highway traffic on Manama’s main artery, then in the span of a few minutes, ferrying over tranquil waters to Lagoon Moon – our lunch destination at Reef Clubhouse, located on the pristine atoll that is Reef Island.

Waiting for our set meal, we appreciated the allround view from the restaurant’s glass facades – the distant golden sands flanking the cove, beach umbrellas dotting the shore, the glitzy waterside structures developed around the capital, the beautiful azure above and aquamarine below.

The Quinoa Salad was an eye-full of colour. I don’t remember ever chomping on a salad with so many elements dancing in perfect tandem on the taste buds – avocado, quinoa, caramelised apple, mango, strawberry, pine nuts, chickpeas and frisée lettuce – all tied together with Italian balsamic dressing.

This set menu, that costs BD15, treats diners to three appetisers. The first was Shrimp Beetroot – butterflied shrimp perched atop quenelles of beet; orange and baby spinach adding to the melee of colour.

Next came the Lagoon Moon Fatteh, wherein roasted eggplant and tender prawns swirled around in creamy garlic yogurt. Hiding within the cloud-like textures, pita croutons and pine nuts shouted a crunchy “surprise”! The last leg of the starters sounded commonplace, but actually made my taste buds sit up and take notice. You’ve got to try the Hummus Pesto to believe how a well-made pesto can be a game changer for the humble chickpea-tahina staple.

This lovely Arabic-Mediterranean fusion served as a perfect introduction to the mains. The Mixed Barbecue Grill comprised well-marinated beef tenderloin and www.bahrainthismonth.com

pistachio-spiked chicken kofta kebabs. The meat was juicy with each bite and done just right.

By now I was bursting at the seams, not only with the fabulous flavours that Head Chef, Gilbert Sakr, had fed us, but also a warm satiation that only a serene ambience can bring. I thought I had no space for dessert, but, looking at the snow-white cream sandwiched between crisp vermicelli discs of the Ousmaliyeh, my belly willingly complied. So, I doused the pastry in sugar syrup and my guilt with ‘you-onlylive-once’ and dug right in. Oh, sweet heaven!

Lagoon Moon has an à la carte menu too, one that is oft requested by the club’s beachcombers who swim across the waters and treat themselves to food and drinks that, may I add, are extremely reasonably priced for a high-end restaurant built over water.

The restaurant is open over Friday and Saturday and welcomes everyone, as do all the dining venues at the otherwise members-only Reef Clubhouse.

A quick tour around the sprawling facility showed that members get great value for their money. They receive special privileges at various points of sale, like dining outlets, the spa and salon, depending on their membership type, and have the full-size indoor swimming pool, health club, fitness classes, games area (with a cute bowling alley for kids), Arabic Majlis and Society Lounge for their exclusive use.

The clubhouse has been planned and designed keeping in mind the requirements of discerning clientele who seek a quick escape to a peaceful paradise, cocooned right in the heart of Manama.

TRICK OR TREAT, p69

MALAY NARVELS, p72

JAPANESE STREET FOOD, p75

View more info online

Call 77 900-700.

November 2019 67

dining

LA DOLCE VITA There’s a new Italian Chef de Cuisine in town at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s Primavera. Liz O’Reilly went along to say hello to Chef Delfino and check out his latest innovation, Mamma Mia Mondays.

I

talian food. What can you say really?

There’s an emphasis on simplicity and super-fresh, tasty ingredients and it would truly be hard to come up with something that’s both exciting but doesn’t buck those traditions too far.

The secret Chef Delfino has imparted to his Mamma Mia Mondays menu is in taking classic dishes and doing them exceptionally well – the perfect showcase for both his homeland and his restaurant and at the very reasonable price of BD15 per person for sharing platters that more than satiated our very healthy appetites.

Speaking of simplicity, I do love a bit of bread and cheese. So, it was great, on arrival, to be served a selection of homemade breads with chunks of Parmesan replacing the usual butter. However, myself and my guest held back in anticipation of the goodies to come – and it was just as well!

The set menu starter is mixed anti-pasti served on a cute wooden board. This changes regularly and on our visit comprised Bruschetta – one of my favourite things ever and a delicious crunchy, sweet, savoury and herby triumph; and Vitello Tonnato – not something I have tried before, this is described as ‘usually a main course dish or for an exceptionally elegant anti-pasti option’ and it’s easy to see why. Tender, thinly sliced veal is served with capers and a mayonnaise-type sauce that’s delicately flavoured with tuna. It’s a really interesting combination.

There was also Panzerotti, a dough turnover stuffed with delicious dried tomatoes and cheese. The pastry, though obviously fried, suffered not a hint of grease and was, instead, crispy, light and flaky; perfect for a starter 68 November 2019

plate. The Mozzarella Carrozza, on the other hand, was a little too heavy for my taste – a traditional fried cheese sandwich, beautifully presented but not great in a mixed setting.

Bringing up the rear were traditional antipasti favourites Bresaola and Eggplant Parmigiana – truly, what’s not to like here?

The mains were, indeed, the stars of the show highlighting two classically Italian dishes.

Grigliata Mista di Pesce – an impressively varied mix of grilled fish and seafood, made up of seabream, seabass, hammour, prawns, squid and calamari – was served with lemon and lightly battered veggies. I’ve not had calamari in a while and was delighted to recall just how much I love it when cooked well – which this certainly was.

Each portion of fish was grilled to perfection, the flesh firm but crumbly and the flavour intact.

The delicate tang of the seabream was perfectly complemented by the riper, stronger taste of the hammour and the huge shrimps were equally succulent and satisfying; though I did draw the line at eating their heads which were fried and served separately!

The second main was a veal chop served Milanese style with rocket leaves, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan shaves and arrabbiata sauce. I have to confess that I do not usually eat veal but decided to give it a try and could instantly see what people rave about. The meat was super tender, almost melting on the tongue, and sweet in flavour.

We finished with a selection of desserts of which the pannacotta with nuts and berry coulis was declared the best my dining companion had ever eaten – not bad for a Monday night set menu! www.bahrainthismonth.com

G N I PP

SPOOKTASTIC FUN

tablehopping

O H g n E i L n i D r TAB e b em

Saraya, Fiamma and Rivaaj restaurants at The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa invite you to dust off your spookiest costume and prepare for the return of the Halloween Grand Friday Brunch, from 12.30pm – 4pm on November 1. Excite your palate with a wide range of international flavours and prepare for a spine-chilling afternoon, full of heart racing surprises for the whole family including a special corner for your little ones, all for BD36 per person, inclusive of selected beverages, and 50-per-cent discount for children from six to 12 years of age.

Call 38 885-789.

Nov

A SCARY-FUN BRUNCH

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa has organized a Halloween Brunch on November 1, for BD32 per person, inclusive of selected drinks. Guests can enjoy Halloween-themed dishes and live entertainment, while kids will be kept busy with engaging activities. The buffet will be laid out in the pool area of the fivestar property from 12.30pm – 4pm.

Call 17 531-666.

TRICK OR TREAT Movenpick Hotel Bahrain marks the Day of the Dead at its newly opened Silk’s restaurant and Gallery lounge. Three outlets will come together to present one of the most lavish, lively and treat-filled Halloween experiences. Guests can expect bloodcurdling cocktails, fearsome foods, Latin grooves by the resident band and an after-party with spooktacular beats by DJ John. Change into character with the help of a complimentary make-up bar at the venue. The unlimited beverage brunch is from 12.30pm to 4pm on November 1, priced at BD38 per person.

Call 17 460-000.

SPOOKY TASTES Wembley Lounge hosts a Halloween party brunch featuring plenty of good flavours and entertainment from resident DJ Tin-Tin, at BD21 for the unlimited food and beverage package from 12.30pm to 4pm on November 1.

Call 33 640 009 / 33 536-448.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2019 69

tablehopping

CELEBRATE LIFE On November 29, The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain will host a themed Super Brunch to mark Thanksgiving at La Med, from 12.30pm-3.30pm. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind brunch experience featuring a wide variety of culinary favourites, roast stations, Asian corner, fresh seafood spread and a sumptuous dessert buffet along with live entertainment and fun for the littlest guests. The experience is priced at BD30, including soft drinks, or BD38, including selected beverages.

Call 17 586-499.

THANKSGIVING MADE EASY The chefs at La Mosaique Restaurant, located at Crowne Plaza Bahrain, will take the effort out of Thanksgiving this year by preparing an entire Thanksgiving meal for you on November 27 and 28, between noon to 8pm, for only BD50.

Order a 5-7kg turkey along with all the traditional accompaniments, and enjoy this special day as it is meant to be enjoyed, in the company of friends and family.

Call 17 531-122 / 39 242-391.

SAY THANK YOU On November 29, from 1pm-4pm, honour the abundance with a generous Thanksgiving Brunch at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay’s Bahrain Bay Kitchen. There will be a feast of western style meats, side dishes and desserts. Tuck into time-honoured traditions of turkey with the trimmings and everyone’s favourite, apple pie. The brunch is priced at BD30, inclusive of soft drinks, or BD43, inclusive of alcoholic beverages. Children from six to 12 years get 50-per-cent discount.

Call 17 115-500.

A DELECTABLE SPREAD Celebrate Thanksgiving at Al Waha at Gulf Hotel Bahrain, on Thursday, November 28 with a special dinner buffet featuring classic American dishes. The sumptuous spread will cost BD23 or BD29, with selected beverages.

The restaurant will also be accepting take-away orders for whole roast turkey, available with a mustard-honey glaze or apple-honey glaze for BD9+++ per kilo.

Call 17 713-000.

BRUNCH WITH GRATITUDE Celebrate Thanksgiving in style with ART Rotana’s Friday Brunch at Choices Restaurant & Terrace on November 29 from 12.30pm-4pm, featuring an extravagant banquet of Thanksgiving specials, along with a vast array of superb live cooking stations fit for the occasion. Enjoy unlimited premium grape and drinks while the little ones have a great time at their special area with special activities planned for them. Savour your brunch for BD25, inclusive of soft drinks, or BD36, inclusive of house beverages. Kids aged six-12 years pay BD12.500, inclusive of soft drinks.

Call 16 000-111.

70 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

A MEXICAN FEST NOVEMBER

When? November 1 Event? Spooky Halloween Brunch Venue? Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay The brunch is priced at BD30, inclusive of non-alcoholic beverages, or BD43, inclusive of alcoholic beverages.

E Call 17 115-500.

When? November 15 and 29 Event? Terrace Party Venue? WU Asian lounge & Terrace, ART Rotana Enjoy the sunset view with drinks, shisha and delicious Asian dishes. Free entrance for the ladies with a complimentary drink, and BD10 for gents with two drinks.

E Call 16 000-111.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

WORK AND DINE

Celebrate the Day of the Dead, one of Mexico’s most iconic festivals, with Festival De Las Calaveras Brunch at The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa on November 15, from 12.30pm-4pm. Enjoy unique festive vibes with your family and loved ones for BD36 per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

Savour the tastiest, flavour-packed delights and down them with some thirst-quenching cocktails to the tune of the finest Latin music played by the Cuban band to keep you captivated throughout the celebrations.

Call 38 885-789.

Baharat restaurant at Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain offers a business lunch which is a selection of international dishes on the buffet featuring a tandoor oven and indoor grill, from Sunday to Thursday, 12.30pm-3pm. The full lunch buffet is priced at BD16. The Soup and Salad option is available for BD7 per person. Kids aged six-12 dine at half price.

Call 17 171-441.

November 2019 71

tablehopping When? Every Monday Event? Gamberetto Monday Venue? Medzo Italian Restaurant, InterContinental Regency Bahrain Pick up prawns from a display and have them cooked to your liking, from 6.30pm to 11pm.

E Call 17 227-777.

When? Every Thursday Event? Natak Experience Venue? Teatro Downtown, Downtown Rotana A multi-course menu which will immerse you in exciting Indian flavours for BD16 E Call 13 119-999.

When? Every Thursday Event? Ladies Fantasia Venue? Elements Pool & Lounge A fantastic evening for ladies with a female DJ, three cocktails or glasses of grape, complimentary pool access and 30-per-cent discount for ladies who enjoy the pool, from 8pm to midnight.

E Call 17 227-777.

When? Every Thursday and Friday Event? Tandoori Night Venue? Rivaaj Restaurant Taste the rich flavors of Indian cuisine coming to you straight from the hot tandoor at the exquisitely decorated terrace or indoor dining area.

E Call 38 885-789.

MALAY MARVELS

MEDITERRANEAN MARKET EXPERIENCE Medzo Italian Restaurant at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain serves dishes that are a blend of timeless classics with a contemporary twist made by expert chefs who work with the freshest ingredients.

Enjoy Mercato Wednesday, a special Market dinner with Italian street food from different kiosks at this venue, from 6.30pm-11pm. The evening is priced at BD12, for the soft drink package, or BD19, for the Italian grape package.

Call 17 227-777.

When? Every Thursday and Friday Event? Italian Seafood Night Venue? Fiamma Restaurant Prepare your palate for the freshest seafood delights with an Italian twist for BD20, inclusive of soft beverages, or BD25, inclusive of selected beverages.

E Call 38 885-789.

When? Every Friday Event? Friday Brunch Venue? Silk’s restaurant and Gallery lobby and lounge, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain An award-winning Friday brunch priced at BD38 per person, inclusive of unlimited premium beverages.

E Call 17 460-017.

When? Every Friday Event? Butcher›s Board Friday Brunch Venue? Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana A spread of sushi, salads, Asian, Arabic and European dishes for BD22, with unlimited juices and soft drinks, or BD33, with unlimited selected beverages.

E Call 13 119-999.

72 November 2019

Take a trip to Malaysia with WU Restaurant’s Malaysian Cuisine Week at the ART Rotana in Amwaj from November 22 to 30, from 5pm-midnight. The special week will be officiated by the Malaysian Ambassador, HE Agus Salim bin Yusof, on November 22. Guests will be able to experience an authentic Malaysian meal prepared by celebrity chef, Shamsul Anuar, travelling all the way from Malaysia for the week. Dinner will be followed by a live performance by traditional Malaysian dancers and music from DJ Elena.

Call 16 000-111.

SUNSET SCENES

PERUVIAN PURSUITS

Enjoy a selection of well-crafted cocktails and assorted Dim Sum at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa’s Kontiki restaurant, on November 14, while you groove to a live performance by May & Paddy. The sophisticated evening is priced at BD12 per person, and will be on from 6pm-10pm.

Call 17 531-666.

A Peruvian gastronomic journey awaits you on November 22, at the Grand Peruvian Puno Friday Brunch, from 12.30pm-4pm. Enjoy the celebratory vibes of The Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa’s Grand Friday Brunch with a Peruvian twist, featuring sizzling mouthwatering dishes, live entertainment acts and many more surprises. The buffet costs BD36 per person, inclusive of selected beverages.

Call 38 885-789.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

TRULY ASIAN Escape from the stress of the city and enjoy a unique moment in a green oasis in the heart of Manama at Elements Pool & Lounge, located at InterContinental Regency Bahrain. Delight in an assortment of light bites and a selection of beverages.

Alternatively, relax by the pool while sipping on the venue’s signature cocktails and shisha. Every Monday, guests can experience the all-you-can-eat Asian Bite and Bao from 7pm-11pm. The Bite package costs BD9.900, and the Bite and Bao package costs BD12.900.

Call 17 227-777.

AN ENGLISH AFFAIR The Harvesters Pub & Terrace at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosts The Great British Saturday Roast every Saturday, from noon onwards. It’s a great opportunity to test your knowledge with the quiz master while enjoying a traditional three-course British roast buffet. Sports fans can take part in the build up to the Saturday English Premier League games, and afterwards celebrate their team’s win with the band playing British pop and rock classics.

The drinks will be kept flowing in typical Harvesters style between 5pm and 8pm. The revelry is priced at BD18, with soft beverages, or BD25, with three selected house beverages and then BD2.500 per selected beverage throughout the day.

Call 17 531-122 / 39 920-163.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2019 73

tablehopping When? November 24 onwards Event? Turkey-To-Go Venue? The Ritz Gourmet Lounge, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain Savour a delicious turkey family dinner, complete with all the trimmings and side dishes for BD119. Order must be placed 72 hours in advance.

E Call 17 586-499.

A LAVISH LUNCH Now you’ll be looking forward to Saturday! The Saturday Lunch Buffet at The Westin City Centre Bahrain’s Furn Bistro allows you to indulge in an international feast for only BD8, from 12.30pm-4pm.

Call 17 171-441.

When? November 28 Event? Thanksgiving Dinner Venue? Plums, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Enjoy a lavish meal including traditional turkey, pumpkin soup and irresistible dessert for BD35 per person.

E Call 17 586-499.

When? November 28 Event? Thanksgiving Dinner by Wolfgang Puck Venue? Azure Pool, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Relish unlimited Thanksgiving food and beverage with a fine dining twist, for BD48.

E Call 17115044.

When? Every day in November Event? The Ultimate Salmon Selection Venue? Waves Seafood Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Experience this wonderful fish through a selection of cooking methods and sauces, that emphasise its unique flavour profile.

E Call 17 531 122 / 38 411-272

SEAFOOD WONDERS The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa presents Poseidon’s Kingdom, a lavish seafood buffet every Monday, for BD15. Enjoy an array of oceanic delicacies from the 6pm-10pm at Olivos restaurant.

Call 17 531-666.

LIVE IT UP IN LAS VEGAS Mövenpick Hotel hosts a Vegas-themed Thursday Night Out on November 7, from 7pm onwards at Silk’s Restaurant and Garden, priced at BD34, including unlimited drinks. On November 8, the Vegas Friday Brunch will be on at Silk’s Restaurant, the garden and the New Gallery, from 12.30pm-4pm, priced at BD38 per person, including unlimited beverages.

Call 17 460-017.

EXCITING ADDITIONS A COMFORTING CHRISTMAS Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay can prepare your Christmas dinner to be enjoyed at home. A turkey with the trimmings which is good for eight guests costs BD85. Turkey can also be ordered at BD25 per kilogram, along with the accompanying trimmings and roast veggies. Pre-ordering starts from November 21.

Call 17 115-500.

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Black Tap, located at Jumeirah Royal Saray, has added new mocktails to its popular list of beverages, while four new burgers are sure to get guests giddy. Besides new Latin-inspired starter additions, The Crazy Banana and The New Yorker are added to the milkshakes repertoire. Three new taco fillings can be served in a lettuce wrap. And new flavours of bone-in wings include Texas BBQ, Carolina BBQ and Mexican Hot Sauce.

Call 17 100-363.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

tablehopping

TEXAN TASTES The Taste of Texas is the perfect setting for the American Festival at The New Silk’s at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, known for exceptional service, great atmosphere and a new grill feature. Guests will be treated to flavours of the Lone Star State with classic Texas-inspired dishes and TexMex cuisine over dinner on November 14, and brunch on November 15. The band will entertain with Latin rhythms and the DJ will keep you on your feet throughout the brunch. Dinner is from 7pm onwards, priced at BD34, including unlimited drinks, and brunch the next day will be from 12.30pm-4pm, priced at BD38 per person, including unlimited beverages.

Call 17 460-017.

FRENCH DELICACIES Be transported to the City of Lights as you taste the works of art created by pastry chef Nicolas Lambert. The French goodies are priced at BD26.500 for two guests, or BD35, including a glass of sparkling juice. The delicacies will be available from Wednesday, November 20 to Saturday, November 30, from noon to 9pm. Guests can also partake in a special masterclass by the chef on November 20 at Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Bahrain Bay. Call 17 115-500.

AN UNBEATABLE THURSDAY Join Chef Tahir Guneysu at Mercure Grand Hotel Seef’s Neyran Restaurant from 7pm onwards every Thursday, as he preps a feast of coastal splendour featuring an impressive array of delightful seafood dishes. It will be a perfect weekend kick-off with the seafood buffet priced at BD12, with soft beverages, or BD14, with two glasses of selected beverage per person. Make the most of the 2 + 1 Free special promotion for this fabulous spread.

Call 17 584-400.

JAPANESE STREET FOOD Teatro Downtown at the Downtown Rotana introduces its newest food offering, Yakitori Wednesday. For only BD15, indulge in a set menu of seafood, corn-fed chicken, vegetables and more from 6pm-10pm every Wednesday, accompanied by tunes from the resident Saxophonist.

Call 13 119-999.

RUSTIC DINING The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain presents the Rustico Family Lunch at Primavera on Saturdays, from noon to 3pm. Enjoy lunch the Italian way, just like grandma would have wanted it. Gather the family or your best group of friends and savour the afternoon with a variety of sharing dishes including the signature Antipasti Board, Braised Beef with Polenta, traditional pastas, grandma’s Tiramisu and more. The price is for BD25 per adult, including the beverage package, or BD10 for kids four-12.

Call 17 586-499.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Oktoberfest An evening Oktoberfest was held at

To view more images, scan the QR code

Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Oktoberfest Brunch

An Oktoberfest Summer Friday Brunch was held at Saraya Restaurant To view more images, scan the QR code

La Plage Festival

Due to popular demand, La Plage Beach festival returned for yet another fun-packed getaway at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

To view more images, scan the QR code

76 November 2019

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Bar & Restaurant held a Copacabana Festival launch to introduce a Copacabana Tapas new menu and Brazilian executive sous chef, Eduardo Bronte

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

bystander

Lulu Online Shopping Launch Lulu Hypermarket

held the official launch of the Lulu Online Shopping Portal at Ramli Mall. The event was inaugurated by HE Ali Abdul Hussain Maki, Assistant Undersecretary of Commercial Registration & Companies; Ashraf Ali M A, Executive Director of Lulu Group International; and Juzer Rupawala, Director of Lulu Hypermarket Bahrain and Egypt

open-air family-friendly music festival returned for its autumn edition with tribute acts from the UK and Trib Fest Bahrain’s Europe. The line-up included The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Maroon 5, U2, The Bee Gees and more

Dutch Healthy Food Week

Al Jazira Supermarket held the opening of its Dutch Healthy Food Week. The event was inaugurated by Dutch Ambassador, HE Frans Potuyt and there was a live cooking demo with Dutch Chef Edgar Buhrs

live concert was held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, with Lebanese super star, Jad Nakhle, Concert Amesmerising belly dancing from, Elissar, and an amazing comedy show by Bassem Feghali www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

November 2019 77

gadgets

GADGETS

BTM brings you the latest gadgets to push your technological buttons.

270 DEGREE CAMERA STAND VELOCITRAX

Fast, furious and fun, the Velocitrax is a gateway to some awesome RC action. Complete with futuristic looks and fitted with industrial rubber tracks, this cool remote control allterrain vehicle is a high-performance gadget with a cool 40 metre range and full function omni-directional control.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

This portable device is the lightweight answer to your photography woes.

Simply place your smartphone in the camera stand, wind up the built-in mechanism and let the gadget do the rest. The handsfree operation sweeps around 270° to capture all the sights all at one speed. And even if you want to take still photos or videos, this stand will hold your smartphone in place while you get the perfect angle.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

BLUETOOTH HAT

If you’re batting with the elements, the last thing you need is to be battling with your earphones too. Enjoy tangle free wireless happiness all whilst keeping snug as a bug in this soft and cosy unisex hat. Play your favourite songs, audio books and podcasts through the built-in speakers inside this gadget. Controlling the audio is easy, simply use the built-in control panel with LED indicators to skip, play and pause your tunes and even take and receive hands-free phone calls.

Available from www.amazon.com

3DOODLER CREATE 3D PRINTING PEN

Plug in your 3Doodler Create and give it about a minute to warm up. Then insert a strand of plastic into the back. There are two buttons and two speeds; press the speed of your choice, and watch the plastic flow out of the pen. Then, just draw and connect to fill in and make magic happen. You’ll never want to draw in 2D again after using this gadget.

Available from www.thinkgeek.com

78 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

gadgets

VEX ROBOTIC ARM

Based on real industrial robotic arms – the kind that build cars, aeroplanes and spacecraft – this VEX kit can be built by hand without the use of any tools, with components that simply snap together.

It can lift any number of small household objects up to 35cm in the air and 25cm outwards with its precision opening claw attachment, as well as rotating through a full 360°.

Available from www.red5.co.uk

SPEECH BUBBLE LIGHT BOX

If you need a little prompting now and again as a reminder for doctors’ appointments, important anniversaries or party invites, then let the Speech Bubble Light Box give you a helping hand. Shaped like a comic strip speech bubble, this luminous battery-powered light comes with its own stencil and pen kit, so you’ll be ready to write your words of wisdom as soon as your light arrives.

Available from www.thegadgetflow.com

HALO LIGHT BELT

The perfect accessory for your pooch, especially in the dark, this gadget is a series of long-lasting bright LEDs, visible up to 450 metres away. The LEDs are embedded in high-quality silicon, so it’s waterproof even if/when your dog finds every puddle in the entire park. It’s USB-rechargeable with an included micro-USB cable, and lasts up to six hours on a single charge.

Available from www.thinkgeek.com

LASER DIFFRACTION PLATE SCIENCE KIT

This gadget is an optical device that carries several different microstructure elements, so you can play with multiple examples of laser illusions. The polycarbonate plastic plate contains several different microstructure patterns, including two star fields, the moon and even a globe that rotates as the laser beam is moved along the surface. All it needs is the attached laser pointer.

Available from www.thinkgeek.com

DIGITAL MICROSCOPE CAMERA

Providing up to 400x magnification, this piece of tech will have you feeling like an ingenious scientist in a matter of minutes. The Digital Microscope Camera illuminates your objects with powerful LEDs, letting you shoot videos and take images with the 2.0 megapixel lens. Then adjust the brightness, hue, saturation and sharpness as well as change the black and white display to adjust to your personal needs.

Available from www.amazon.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2019 79

games

GAMES

WHAT IS IT?

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint puts players back in the boots of the Ghosts, an Elite US Special Operations Unit. This time, they are stranded behind enemy lines, facing their toughest enemy to date. The Wolves, a lethal ex–US Military unit of former Ghosts gone rogue, have taken over the island of Auroa, where the most technically advanced facilities meet wild and untamed nature. Nomad and the Ghosts are sent in on a recon mission, but their helicopters are shot down. Injured, without support and hunted down, you must fight to survive, take down the Wolves and regain control of Auroa.

VERDICT:

An entertaining and beautiful shooter.

RATING:

GAMEPLAY

This military shooter is set in a diverse and hostile open world entirely playable solo or in four-player co-op. To overcome adversity, accomplish missions with plenty of tactical options and tools, including a set of new military features. Players will be able to carry enemies’ and teammates’ bodies, blend into their environment with prone camouflage and set up camp with teammates in a bivouac to manage equipment, change classes and fine-tune strategies. Players can choose among thousands of customisation combinations to create the perfect Ghost and keep their character and progression through the game in both the main campaign and Player-versus-Player combat.

GRAPHICS

What Breakpoint does really well is scope and scale, and it does it in a number of areas. Geographically, the size of the Auroa map is massive and runs the biome gamut by finding a way to fit swamplands, temperate forests, tropical jungles, lush green valley meadows, seismically jolted cliff faces, and snow-capped mountain ranges into the archipelago. The lighting technology is fantastic, and the really intriguing near-future architecture excellently juxtaposes against the earthy wilds and rural homesteads of the native population.

FIFA 20

Powered by Frostbite, EA Sports FIFA 20 brings two sides of football to life – the prestige of the professional stage and a new authentic street football experience in EA Sports Volta. FIFA 20 innovates across the game, Football Intelligence unlocks an unprecedented platform for gameplay realism, FIFA Ultimate Team offers more ways to build your dream squad, and Volta brings the amateur, more skilful side of the game to the fore.

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INDIVISIBLE

Indivisible is a side-scrolling action/adventure game from the makers of SkullGirls. Ajna is a girl who sets out on a globespanning journey to discover the truth behind her mysterious powers. On her quest she’ll be joined by a variety of unique heroes and gain new abilities to traverse the environments and defeat the enemies they’ll encounter along the way.

Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince

In Trine 4: The Nightmare Prince, the three heroes of the bestselling adventure series are back, sent on a quest to retrieve the troubled young Prince Selius. Amadeus the Wizard, Pontius the Knight, and Zoya the Thief are joined together once again on a thrilling quest through fantastical fairy-tale landscapes teeming with danger. The trio must find the afflicted prince and resolve the desperate situation before the world is engulfed by the Nightmare Prince’s shadows. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

APPS REVIEW BTM BRINGS YOU THE LOW-DOWN ON THE LATEST AND GREATEST APPS ON THE MARKET.

WHAT IS IT?

APP: NOVA LAUNCHER RATING: VERDICT: Probably the best Android launcher available.

Android smartphones are inoperable without a launcher, which comprises your home screen and the catalogue of all the apps available on your device. That’s why every device comes with a default launcher pre-installed. Nova Launcher is a custom one which offers far more options.

THE GOOD

It is fast, efficient and lightweight. It supports dock customisations, notification badges, an option to show frequently used apps as a top row in the app drawer, folder and icon customisations, dozens of gestures and many others. It also has support for app shortcuts found in Android Nougat.

THE BAD

The only downside is that some useful features and icon packs are locked behind a prime version. It’s only a small fee, but it stings a little when other launchers offer similar or only slightly less quality options for free.

APP: SWIFTKEY SwiftKey keyboard is trusted by more than 250 million users worldwide. It uses artificial intelligence which enables it to learn and satisfactorily predict what the user intends to type. It features autocorrect and gesture typing for faster input.

Moreover, there is an inbuilt GIF search engine, a wide range of themes and is an excellent keyboard for bilingual folks. Most importantly, the app does not store information from password fields and sensitive information such as credit card numbers. www.bahrainthismonth.com

APP: XENDER Xender saves you from the hassle of carrying your USB data cable around to exchange files with PC as no PC-side software is required to transmit or receive files. Moreover, it is a hundred times faster than Bluetooth for transferring files between any devices, thanks to it being cross-platform.

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websites

BSPCA Quiz BSPCA held a quiz night at LNT GastroPub

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websites

SITE: www.lingyourlanguage.com RATING: VERDICT: A fun tool for practising language skills.

WHAT IS IT?

LingYourLanguage is an effort to bring the world’s languages to a wider audience in an entertaining, engaging way by testing users on their knowledge in a game format. Visitors to the site began contributing their languages to the LingYourLanguage collection. It soon spread and links together people and cultures.

THE GOOD

The site has more than 2,000 samples in 80 languages and nearly 200 dialects from around the world. It provides information on every language available both in-game and on a dedicated Learn page. Not only that, but the game logic has multiple difficulty levels to allow anyone to play and learn the sounds of the different languages. There’s even a multiplayer mode, so you can compete with friends and family.

THE BAD

After extensive use, it’s clear that it’s better for practising languages you already know or have a grasp of, rather than learning new ones. The site is lacking in the nuances of grammar and instead deals with direct translations.

The Belgian Mussels Festival 2019

The Belgian Club of Bahrain, under the patronage of Belgian Ambassador, HE Piet Heirbaut, held The Belgian Mussel Festival 2019 at Gulf Hotel Bahrain

www.boibot.com/en/

For all those times when you have felt lonely and have been unable to express yourself to your friends or if you don’t actually have any close friends, artificial intelligence is here for you. Biobot is an AI programme that has been designed for one sole purpose only: interacting with humans. Biobot is a male AI while Eviebot is a female AI.

www.futurism.com

This website is one of the most futuristic ones you’ll come across. The simple aim of the website is to keep the reader posted with every single snippet of futuristic news that may be a major step forward for humans, be it in the field of science, medicine or technology 82 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Health Talk

Bahrain Specialist Hospital and the Bahrain Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, presented a health talk on the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

To view more images, scan the QR code

KIMS Muharraq Launch

KIMS Bahrain Healthcare held the formal launch of KIMS Bahrain Medical Centre - Muharraq

AmCham AGM AmCham Bahrain held its 2019 Annual General Meeting, Board of Directors election and dinner at Wyndham Grand Manama

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

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bystander

Korean Photo Exhibition

Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Rashed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the General Directorate of Nationality Passports and Residence and Honorary President of the Bahrain Arts Society, the first Koreaninspired photo exhibition titled ‘The Beauty of Korea’ was held at The Dome

This Might Be Jazz

The Exchange - An English Pub held an event called “This Might Be Jazz” at Ramada by Wyndham Bahrain

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SKAL Dinner

SKAL International Bahrain 370 held its monthly dinner 84 November 2019

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music

KORN – THE NOTHING

Spiralling into the titular void on 13th album The Nothing, Korn frontman Jonathan Davis pulls his bandmates down with him, delivering the veteran metal crew’s most vulnerable and mature work to date. Intensely cathartic, this dark journey is strongly influenced by the 2018 passing of Davis’ wife, Deven, resulting in some of the most painfully honest work they’ve ever produced. The words “brutal” and “heavy” are frequent descriptors of Korn’s trademark musical style, but here they take on new meaning. Psychologically, The Nothing is relentless, an unflinching dive into the grief and despair that follow the untimely death of a loved one.

VERDICT:

A heavy, intense release from the nine-piece.

WHAT’S THE STORY?

Nine is the eighth studio album by American rock band Blink-182. The band —composed of bassist/vocalist Mark Hoppus, guitarist/vocalist Matt Skiba, and drummer Travis Barker – began developing the album after fulfilling touring obligations for their previous release, California. While Nine builds upon their collaboration with producer John Feldmann, it also utilises additional outside producers and songwriters including Captain Cuts, the Futuristics, and producer Tim Pagnotta. Much of the album’s lyricism is dark in nature and was informed by world events, as well as Hoppus’ battle with depression.

WORTH A LISTEN?

Awash in a neon rainbow and increasingly pop-leaning production, Blink182’s aptly named Nine proves that looks can be deceiving. Despite the colourful album cover, this is one of Blink’s darkest albums to date.

Depression, self-doubt, fear and frustration lurk beneath the trio’s trademark sound and, upon closer inspection of the lyrics, Nine’s loudness and energy become better suited for catharsis and bloodletting than simple pop-punk rollicking and mischief. Gone are the scatological and lowbrow humour of past efforts, pushing the band into more emotionally fraught territory than their usual joke-loving, breezy poppunk wheelhouse. While Nine is by no means a dour emo record, it carries enough emotional heft to elevate it as one of Blink-182’s strongest late-era efforts, one that matures their typical sound with its commitment to vulnerability and honesty. www.bahrainthismonth.com

WILCO – ODE TO JOY Ode to Joy comes from the noisier and more inward-looking side of the band’s personality, with the lyrics contemplating a struggle between crippling fear and anxiety and a need to believe in something better. The music testifies to the strength of this band as they build something truly compelling and intelligent out of even the most seemingly formless soundscapes. Ode to Joy reveals that Wilco are more than willing to explore the boundaries of their music, and they do so with confidence and a sense of daring.

THE DARKNESS – EASTER IS CANCELLED Styling themselves as tightpanted heroes on a mission to save the world with the power of rock, England’s princes of outlandish nostalgia The Darkness approach maturity with their sixth album. With such an outrageous title (and accompanying artwork that depicts frontman Justin Hawkins as a super-buff Jesus breaking himself off a cross), one might expect this to be a typical Darkness romp through farcical subject matter and glorious headbangers. However, Easter Is Cancelled is surprisingly – by Darkness standards – tame, focused and earnest, setting aside blatant hedonism and sophomoric humour. This is a soaring and melodic evolution for the Darkness, a fresh step into maturation that retains their campy, fun-loving spirit without all the sleaze and filth.

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tv releases

FANCY SOME CHILL-TIME AT HOME? Check out the latest TV series to hit your screens.

El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie

This is an American neo-western crime drama film that serves as a continuation of the television series Breaking Bad. Series creator Vince Gilligan acts as screenwriter, producer and director of the film, with Aaron Paul reprising his role as Jesse Pinkman. The plot follows what happens to Pinkman following the events of the show’s series finale.

Big Mouth

Teenage friends find their lives upended by the wonders and horrors of puberty in this edgy comedy from real-life pals Nick Kroll and Andrew Goldberg.

In the Tall Grass

Horror film based on Stephen King’s novella of the same name. After hearing a boy’s cry for help, a pregnant woman and her brother wade into a vast field of grass in Kansas, only to discover there may be no way out.

Annabelle Comes Home

Modern Love

The anthology series is based on the New York Times column of the same name, and stars include Anne Hathaway, Dev Patel and Tina Fey. The show will explore love in its multitude of forms – including sexual, romantic, familial, platonic and self-love.

86 November 2019

Midsommar

This is a folk horror film written and directed

by Ari Aster and starring Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, William Jackson Harper, Vilhelm Blomgren and Will Poulter. It follows a group of friends who travel to Sweden for a festival that occurs once every 90 years and find themselves in the clutches of a pagan cult.

Determined to keep Annabelle from wreaking more havoc, paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren lock the possessed doll in the artefacts room in their house. But when the doll awakens the room’s evil spirits, it soon becomes an unholy night of terror for the couple’s 10-year-old daughter, her friends and their young baby sitter. www.bahrainthismonth.com

S E I V MO

film releases

Genre: Thriller, Crime, Drama Release Date: November 1 Another Netflix original that’s courting award nods from the critics, and some controversy too, with several cinema chains declining to screen it because of the short time between movie house showings and streaming. The Irishman is a Scorsese classic of mob reminiscences, crime and drama coming from a stellar cast including Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci.

The Irishman Genre: Sci-fi, Action, Adventure Release Date: November 1 Arnie’s back, as are Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong and James Cameron, in this return to the future, post Terminator 2: Judgement Day, where the human race is threatened by cyborgs from the future. Sarah Connor (Hamilton) teams up with the original terminator (Schwarzenegger) to protect a young cyborg-human hybrid.

Harriet

Terminator Dark Fate

Genre: Drama Release Date: November 1 An inspiring tale based on the extraordinary true story of abolitionist Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes, who freed hundreds of slaves, fought with the Union Army and changed the course of history.

Charlie’s Angels

Frozen 2

Knives Out

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy Release Date: November 15 If you can get past the fact that poor old Charlie must be long in his grave by now and there can truly never be any angels to beat Farah and co, then this latest romp sounds fun. It stars Naomi Scott, Kristen Stewart and Ella Balinska as the Angels, with Elizabeth Banks both producing and taking on the role of Bosley.

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy Release Date: November 22 Prepare for another blinder of a theme song that you won’t be able to get out of your head as Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven leave Arendelle for an ancient, autumn-bound forest in an enchanted land. They aim to uncover the origin of Elsa’s powers in order to save their kingdom.

Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama Release Date: November 27 Sounding suspiciously like the plot of an Agatha Christie novel, Knives Out sees detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) drawn into the investigation when renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday. Blanc must get behind the scenes of a dysfunctional family and unravel a web of fibs to get to the truth.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

Kahlo celebrated its third anniversary with an elaborate Mexican Fiesta with stations Anniversary Event Cantina serving popular street foods from Mexico, traditional piñata and a scavenger hunt

Mai Tai Re-opening A re-opening celebration was held for Trader Vic’s Mai Tai Lounge

Aperitivo Italiano in Piazza

A celebration was held at Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, introducing new Chef de Cuisine, Delfino Sanfilippo Chiarello, and Italian guitarist, Stefano “Stevie” Arcieri

88 November 2019

To view more images, scan the QR code

To view more images, scan the QR code

To view more images, scan the QR code

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bystander OTHER EVENTS

A ‘Contemporary Advancements and Practices in Research’ event was held at Arab Open University Under the patronage of Ali bin Sheikh Abdul Hussain Al Asfour, the Northern Governor, and in cooperation with the Saudi Embassy, the management of Saar Mall celebrated Saudi National Day

A launch ceremony was held for the new 2020 Hyundai Sonata at The Avenues

The latest diner amical of the Bahrain Chapter of The Chaine des Rotisseurs was held at the The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. A Special Award was presented by Deputy Chairman, Betsy B Mathieson, to Executive Chef Younis Ramadhan, in recognition of his Outstanding Services to the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Industry.

In celebration of World Teacher’s Day, the second Educators Convention and Service Awards 2019 was held at Wyndham Grand Manama

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry held a media conference, at Bait Altijjar, for the 18th Arab Businessmen and Investors Conference with the slogan 4th Industrial Revolution: Shaping the Future - Digital Disruptions for a Better Tomorrow

The Ethiopian Honorary Consulate in Bahrain held a Discover Ethiopia event at InterContinental Bahrain with live Ethiopian Coffee ceremony, cuisine, tourism trade and investment opportunities

The management of Behbehani Brothers held the grand opening of Skoda Bahrain showroom in Sitra. The event was inaugurated by German Ambassador, HE Kai Boeckmann, and directors at Behbehani, Abdul Majeed Shirazi and Abdul Ghani Behbehani

www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery

Rifat, Nitcha, George and Malik attended a Malaysian Embassy function in Manama

Kims Bahrain Healthcare held a press conference to talk about its growth and new projects

November 2018 89

what's green

WHAT’S

green

BTM takes a look at the latest easy-touse, planet-friendly products.

USE, WASH, REPEAT!

DITCH THE PLASTIC

LastSwab replaces single-use cotton swabs that occupy landfills the world over. Available in two versions: standard and make-up, both innovative designs feature a soft-feel tip. It’s delicate enough to be suitable for sensitive body parts, precise enough to be a make-up essential. LastSwab is the sanitary, reusable alternative to single-use swabs that can be cleaned using soap and water. The body is nylon, the tips are made from TPE, a material often used for healthcare applications, and the case is made from PLA, a corn-based material. They’re available in many colours and designed to be as durable as possible, lasting over 1,000 uses.

Available at www.amazon.com

Party utensils don’t get greener than this.

Leafware makes disposable dinnerware out of water and fallen palm leaves. All natural, compostable and biodegradable, with no binders/chemicals, the knives, forks, spoons and tasting/dessert spoons are a perfect match with the brand’s palm dinnerware products. Now you can party guilt-free with the new sturdy, lightweight, compostable cutlery. The elegant, chic dinnerware even costs a fraction of bamboo products.

Available at www.leafware.com

RESPONSIBLE EYES

IT’S A WRAP

If you’re looking for sun glasses that combine the best of eye protection with a bold and distinctive style, then look to Blue Planet Eyewear for a wide range of polarised sun glasses that don’t just look great, they’re environmentally friendly too. All the frames are made from repurposed plastics and metals, and the temples on the sun glasses are either recycled plastic, or formed from natural bamboo or wood.

The glasses provide UVA and UVB protection as well as polarising filters for glare reduction.

Available at www.amazon.com

Bee’s Wrap is a uniquelydesigned plastic-free and ecofriendly reusable food wrap comprised of organic cotton infused with sustainably harvested beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin. Made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, these food wraps have been handcrafted using customised processes, giving consumers industryleading wraps that are of the highest quality, washable, reusable and fully biodegradable. They are durable and easy to use, and foods stay fresh without resorting to single-use plastic. The wraps hold their shape when they cool, creating a seal. They are made to be washed with cool water and gentle soap, and then reused again and again.

Available at www.beeswrap.com

GREEN STATEMENT Eco-friendly, reversible rugs from Fab Habitat are tightly woven for added durability from straws made up of 100-per-cent recycled plastic. Strong and hard-wearing but soft and comfortable underfoot, the power loomed threads are woven with skill and precision. These multi-functional rugs are mould- and mildew-resistant. They’re also UV-resistant, to prevent fading and sun damage, and won’t cause damage to your lawn or decking. They are also practical for indoor use, as spills will just wipe clean. Some of the rugs come with a jute carrier bag with a shoulder strap, making them portable and easy to transport for beach trips, camping or picnics.

Available at www.amazon.com 90 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

out & about

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

away

Make the most of the waning warmth of summer with pool day access packages offered by various hotels around the island.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA - Swimming pool - Beach access SEA & SPA The Family Splash pool and beach promotion will continue in November, wherein two adults and two kids (up to 12 years of age) pay BD40 during weekdays. The regular rates are BD20 per adult, and BD10 per child from SundayWednesday. From Thursday-Saturday, adults pay BD30 per person and BD15 for kids.

What’s Included: - Swimming pool and private beach Call 17 636-363.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

REEF CLUBHOUSE & LAGOON BEACH Here’s a special pre-launch offer of BD10 per person in November, redeemable at the Pool Bar and Café. Kids under five years enter free.

What’s Included - Swimming pool - Jacuzzi Call 77 900-700.

RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA Pay BD10 for adults and BD5 for kids, redeemable at the hotel’s Lemon Tree restaurant.

What’s Included: - Swimming pool Call 17 111-999.

CORAL BAY RESORT

Day passes are available on weekdays for BD30 per person, inclusive of BD15 dining credit at Al Hadiqa Pool & Beach. During weekends guests can book a private cabana to enjoy the facilities.

What’s Included: - Pool and beach access - Towels Call 77 707-070.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

AT REEF RESORT BD20 for adults, Sunday-Wednesday, and BD35, Thursday-Saturday. Kids aged six-12 are charged BD10 on weekdays, and BD15 on weekends.

What’s Included: - Infinity pool - Gym, Jacuzzi, steam bath and sauna - The Kids’ Club Call 13 110-110.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN Purchase day passes for BD25 during weekdays, and BD50 on weekends.

What’s Included: - Access to the luxury pool - Fitness amenities - Beachfront facilities Call 17 586-612.

Call 39 777-701.

Take a refreshing dip at a discounted rate of BD8 per person, valid through November.

What’s Included: - Swimming pool - Gym Call 17 460-051.

Access the pool and beach on weekdays for BD8 for adults, and BD5 for kids aged five to 12.

On weekends, adults pay BD10, and it’s BD8 for children. Free entry for ladies on weekdays from noon to 3pm. Members of the US Navy and Military enjoy free access. Boating, jet skiing, kayaking and wake-boarding are available.

What’s Included:

BD50 for adults from Sunday-Thursday for, and BD25 for kids (12 years and below).

What’s Included: - Four swimming pools and the manmade beach - Spa facilities – the salt inhalation room, Jacuzzi and fitness center - Kids For All Seasons Club Call 17 115-000.

JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY BAHRAIN

ART ROTANA Day Access at BD15 on weekdays, and BD25 over the weekend for adults. Children pay BD10 on all days. The Family Weekend Access offer is priced at BD50 for two adults and two kids.

What’s Included: - Temperature-controlled family swimming pool - Kids’ swimming pool - Kids’ Flipper Club - Aqua park - Inflatable Water park - Private Beach - Adults-only swimming pool and an outdoor Jacuzzi - Private Island - Gym - Sauna Call 16 000-111.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Day passes cost BD10.500.

What’s Included: - Swimming pool - Gym and squash court - Sauna and steam room - Towel, refreshing drink, fruit (apple) and water Call 17 227-777.

November 2019 91

travel Clockwise from left: Take a cemetery tour; Preservation Hall jazz; Amazing architecture; See the city by tram; Parade on Bourbon Street; Slave children sculptures at the Whitney Plantation.

92 November 2019

www.bahrainthismonth.com

travel

The Big Easy If you’re a fan of good jazz or really just love a party, New Orleans is the place for you.

S

itting along the mighty Mississippi River, you could be forgiven for first thoughts turning to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which saw an estimated 80 per cent of the city flooded. But, the French Quarter, considered the historic heart of the New Orleans, escaped more or less unscathed, being the only part built on slightly higher ground.

And it’s here you will want to spend most of your stay. From the gorgeous French and Spanish Creole architecture to the unique foods and nightly street performances, this is the place to get a taste of old New Orleans.

Stay close to, but not on, Bourbon Street (unless you love an allnight party, pretty much every night). There is always something happening and if you go during Mardi Gras – which runs for two weeks in the run-up to Easter – you will witness huge colourful parades, balls and lots of other events.

But, if you can’t make Mardi Gras, don’t despair as there are impromptu parades throughout the year with visitors and locals following roving performers as they play up and down the street.

Preservation Hall Live New Orleans Jazz nightly shows are a must.

The hall is s a bit crumbly and derelict looking, but the music is oh so good. You’ll also see plenty of street performers, some good, some even better and, if you fancy some great jazz accompanied by great food, head to Frenchmen Street, where some of the posher restaurants are to be found.

Food is a big thing, virtually every corner is home to a restaurant of some sort. There is plenty of good ‘ole’ southern-style cooking but you may want to ask them to go easy on the cheese – it seems to have found its way into almost every dish in mountainous quantities.

Work off the calories by taking a twilight walking tour to hear all about the many ghosts of New Orleans – one of the most famous is a Middle Eastern sultan, who took up residence in one of the town’s finest houses only to be massacred, along with his whole household, one dark and stormy night!

Visitors should also pay a visit to the St Louis No 1 Cemetery to the tomb of Marie Leveau, the area’s most famous Voodoo practitioner.

While you’re there, check out the future-proof pyramid tomb of movie star Nicholas Cage! Do note though, this cemetery can only be entered with an official guide – to stop people damaging tombs of the supposed Voodoo community.

Outside of the city the Whitney Plantation Tour is really worth a look.

It is the only plantation tour focussing primarily on the lives of the enslaved people. It features restored buildings and some stunning sculptures as well as a memorial wall of honour bearing the names of more than 100,000 slaves and snippets of their stories.

And, of course, no trip to New Orleans would be complete without a swamp tour – just look out for the alligators!

www.bahrainthismonth.com

November 2019 93

advertisers index Fashion & Footwear

Scan the QR code for more information from the advertisers

Ambassador Stores

Asia Jewellers

Bahrain Jewellery Center

Centrepoint (Splash) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Steve Madden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Home & Furnishing

David’s Stir Fry

Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel

Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 35 Royal Bahrain Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Motoring

Hotels & Serviced Residences

International Motor Trading Agency (Mazda) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

At Reef Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Atiram Hotels (Premier Hotel) . . . . . . 59 Elite Crystal Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Fraser Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Le Meridien . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Ramada Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Ramee Grand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Reef Club House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sofitel Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel . . . 29 The Westin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Jewellery & Watches

Bahrain Specialist Hospital

Medical & Dental Services

Ambassador Stores (Seiko) . . . . . . . . 15 Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . IFC Bahrain Jewellery Centre (Patek Philippe) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Kewalram & Sons Co. (Titan) . . . . . . . 23

Others BBBF:Poppy Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Entertainment Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Kinder World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Saar Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Restaurants & Cafés Bambudha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

JJ’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Maki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge .

11 31 71 73

RE! O M O D NLINE O omers g cust

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Kinder World

7 BD99/813 77 73 17 Tel.: +9

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Le Meridien & The Westin

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BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:

Maki

Mazda

Ramada Hotel

● 24-Seven Minimart, all outlets

● Muntaza Supermarket, all outlets

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Other leading Cold Stores and News Stands

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, all outlets ● Amwaj Islands Market, Amwaj ● Aseel Supermarket, all outlets ● Babasons Market, all outlets ● Lulu Hypermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets ● Metro Markets, all outlets ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

Ramee Grand Hotel

94 November 2019

Saar Mall

Sofitel Hotels & Resorts

All Gulf Daily News home subscribers receive a complimentary copy of BTM. You can also subscribe directly by visiting www.bahrainthismonth.com For subscription enquiries and back issues of BTM, call 17 813-777.

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from Red House Marketing, 17 813-777 or email: bystander@redhousemarketing.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com