SUMMER COOLERS | PORSCHE TEST DRIVE | SUMMER FESTIVAL
YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE
www.bahrainthismonth.com
HEATING UP:
Cool new bands Digging for Treasure: Dr Pierre Lombard on Qal’at Al-Bahrain discovery
India In Bahrain: A special supplement
August 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 8
Arts
Culture
Clubs
Sports
Interviews
Lifestyle
Dining
Nightlife
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Issue 216
Contents August 2015 HAPPENINGS
Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of August 2015.
Spectacular Summer!:
25- 28
Bahrain Summer Festival 2015 30
Keep Kids Busy:
Kids Summer Camp 2015
How Smart Are You?:
32
26
The Dilmun Club hosts a “Home Alone” quiz. 33
Operatic Film Screening:
La Fontaine presents Madame Butterfly
AFTER DARK 36
Hit The Dance Floor:
The island’s nightlife scene is re-awakening. 37
Ultimate Sing-Off:
Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s singing competition, The Vocalist returns. 38-41
30
48
Let Me Entertain You:
Bahrain This Month brings you a round up of the new bands at your favourite hotspots.
50
INTERVIEWS Youth In Demand
Entrepreneurial Bahraini Shahd Al Zaki is encouraging other youngsters to follow in her footsteps and reach for their dreams.
51
36
52
The Moral of The Story
A Bahrain-based author is hoping to entertain and educate youngsters with his new book on the importance of friendship and good behaviour.
52-53
54
56
81 Bystander This month’s bystander pages are packed with Iftar and Ghabga events from the Holy Month. Our busy photographers also attended the French Embassy’s National Day celebration, Rick’s soiree, Aaryanka’s cradle ceremony and the BSB graduation. They also snapped store openings and charity events across the island.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Digging For Treasure
BTM speaks to Dr Pierre Lombard, leader of the French Archaeological Mission which recently made a significant discovery at Qal’at Al Bahrain.
JLR Backseat Chat
Mirza Al Sharif chats to George F Middleton about his passion for music during a ride in a Land Rover Discovery Sport.
FEATURE India in Bahrain: 57-78
A special supplement on the historic, economic and political ties between Bahrain and India.
Summer Coolers: 81
As temperatures climb, stay fresh and frosty with a selection of smooth summer coolers.
August 2015 5
Moda Mall: 17534444 Al-Aali Mall: 17581444 Seef Mall: 17587888 Ritz- Carlton Hotel: 17580123 City Centre: 17179009 www.asiajewellers.com
Issue 216
Contents August 2015 LIFESTYLE Motoring: 87
Life In The Fast Lane:
Die-hard enthusiasts may throw their toys out of the pram
87
at the mere mention of an electric engine in a Porsche, but as Bob Dylan said: “The Times They Are a Changin.” 88
Promotion Continues:
A range of popular models are still available at competitive prices. 91
Royal Appointment:
One of the Kingdom’s leading dealerships has completed the handover of six sophisticated motorcycles to the Ministry of Interior for the personal escort of HRH the Crown Prince. 92
Motoring Bites:
News from across the automotive industry.
97
91
Downtime: 93-95
Gadgets: The newest gizmos in town 96
97
Music: Top Tunes
Computer Games: The hot games of the month 98
Websites: The coolest sites on the web 99
Apps: Sophisticated new apps 100
Movies: Jurassic World
Dining: 102
An Oriental Oasis:
The calming environs of this plush five-star restaurant promise a host of gourmet surprises at wallet-
102
106
friendly prices.
Game On!:
104
In addition to its southern specialities and famous ales, Bennigan’s Bahrain is also an ideal place to enjoy all the sporting action.
Showcase: 109
93
100
120
What’s New: Must-have products
Marketplace: Latest products and services
Regulars: 129 130
94
www.bahrainthismonth.com
109
WIN WIN
Tarotscope
131
AD Index
132
Last Word
August 2015 7
THE TEAM
Bahrain This Month August 2015
Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Editor Charlie Holding Commercial Editor Apple Sharma Assistant Editor Ankita Mamgain Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel Photography Editor Zilia Monteiro Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Tara Vamadeven Pillai
The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN
Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com 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 2005-2014 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.
COVER Cover Picture:
New bands round-up.
Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3
1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24
With summer in full swing, it’s that time again when, along with the temperature, the excitement for one of the most popular events on the island is also reaching an all time high. The Bahrain Summer Festival 2015 is finally here and residents are getting ready for another cultural extravaganza. The month-long festival has a variety of entertainment on offer, featuring fantastic familyoriented shows as well as activities from a selection of top regional and international talents. Check out our dedicated Happenings section for a comprehensive guide to all the action. This month’s India in Bahrain report celebrates the 68th anniversary of the country’s Independence Day by taking a detailed look at the major facets of India’s cultural and economic presence in the Kingdom. From business links and social clubs to cuisine offerings and fashion outlets across the island, there’s an Indian touch to much of what we see and do. In this issue, we give a detailed round up of the new bands performing at venues all over the island. Also in this edition, we have exclusive interviews with children’s author Jamie O’ Dowd and Bahraini entrepreneur Shahd Alzaki. Check out snippets from our exclusive Jaguar Land Rover Backseat Chat interview with musician Mirza Al Sharif (also available as a video podcast online) as he spills the beans on his passions and inspirations in life. To kick off our dining section, BTM visits Soie, the award-winning Chinese restaurant located at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, to sample the exciting new menu. Meanwhile, from discovering new venues to fantastic food promotions, we give you the inside scoop on the Kingdom’s range of eateries. In addition we put the new Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid under the spotlight to see how this mean machine combines electric and gasoline to create a truly memorable drive. In our Summer Coolers report you can find out where to treat yourself with a refreshing drink while you take a break from the sweltering heat Wherever you go during the course of the month, take time to enjoy the great way of life that the Kingdom has to offer.
SUMMER COOLERS | PORSCHE TEST DRIVE | SUMMER FESTIVAL
YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE
George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.
HEATING UP:
Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide
Cool new bands Digging for Treasure: Dr Pierre Lombard on Qal’at Al-Bahrain discovery
India In Bahrain: A special supplement
August 2015 ~ Vol. 19 ~ Issue 8
Arts
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Clubs
Sports
Interviews
Lifestyle
Dining
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Nightlife
August 2015 9
bystander
Dominique, HE Bernard Fabre, HE Essam Awad & Valérie
French National Day HE Bernard Régnauld-Fabre, French Ambassador, hosted a celebration for French Bastille Day at the embassy’s residence. The reception was attended by HH Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Royal Highness The Prime Minister, Ministers, diplomats, and VIPs. Dignitaries cut the cake
HE William & Ann Roebuck
George & Sameera Rajab
HE Mohammed Siraj, HE Abdulla Abdullatif & HE William Roebuck
Jawad Al Hawaj, Jano & Vicky
HE Alok Kumar & Mamta Sinha
HE Mohammed bin Yousif, HE Bernard Fabre & Nejib
Christophe & Gedeon
Mrs & Mr Al Masri
Bishop Camillo & HE Bernard Fabre
HE Ahmed Khattabi
HE Joon Ha and Mrs Yu
HE Chilman Arisman & Ratna
Nancy & Khalifa Al Rumaihi
French band “Jazz in Progress”
The Diplomatic Corps
10 August 2015
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bystander
Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Khalifa & Bridget Lindsay
HE Iain Lindsay and HE Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa
SOAS Dinner SOAS, University of London, held its third Gulf Alumni event in Bahrain. VIPs and alumni attended an Iftar at the residence of British Ambassador and alumnus HE Iain Lindsay, along with the University’s director of development Matthew Gorman and Bahrain representative Mitesh Kotecha. Matthew Gorman, HE Iain & Bridget Lindsay, Kiran & Mitesh Kotecha
Sweta, Marwa, Bridget & Faten
Sajeda, Dr Bahiya, Bridget & Fatima
Dana, Matthew & Haya
Suha, Dr Mohammed and Dana
Mockbul, Mohammed Al Khalifa & HE Iain Lindsay
Alumni catch up over dinner
12 August 2015
Matthew & Dr Mohammed
Mitesh, Kiran, Isa & Zeenat
Tony, Ahmed, Rawia & Fatima
Rouza, Ali & Faezeh
Ohood, Bridget, Rima & Ghadah
Roberta & Tony
Salah & Silvana
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Ryan & Kayla
Steven, Charlie & Jonathan
Janan & Lulu
Rick’s Soiree Rick Costa held a fun evening for friends at his apartment in Juffair. Rick, Ahmed & Ellie
Mohammed & Kambeez
Moe, Yosri & Emad
Kristianna & Magie
Helen & Deema
Thanos & Emma
14 August 2015
Hugh & Ryan
Bahssin & Abdul Rahman
Rashida & Damian
Fatya, Bjorn & Susie
Moe, Mohammed & Emad
Paul & Kaye
Kate & Magie
Ahmed & Bader
Sara, Emma & Kayla
Sara
Hassan, Kristianna & Mohammed
Charlie & Hussain
Ola & Susie
Amy, Liam & Hugh
Shawn
Ahmed & DJ Detour
Vladi
Mahi & Rick
Boys having fun
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Mohamed Juma & Shaikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa
Juma Majlis Abdulla and Abdulrahman, the sons of Mohammed Juma, received well-wishers at their majlis during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Khalid Fakhro, Hamed Alzayani, Abdulla Juma, Khalid Alzayani, HE Bernard Fabre, HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Mansoor Bin Rajab, Adel Safar & Shuber
Ahmed & Tariq Faisal Juma, Khalid Juma & Mohamed
Abdulrahman Juma & Nabeel
Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Khalifa, Hassan & Khamis
Shaikh Al Asfoor & Shaikh Hisham Al Khalifa
Khalid & Ziyad
Alumran Majlis
Mohammed & Jassim
HE Dr Dhafer & Vice Admiral Miller
HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, Assistant Under-Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, received dignitaries, ambassadors, businessmen and other well-wishers at his majlis during the Holy Month of Ramadan. HE Dr Dhafer Alumran, fifth from left, with his guests
HE Kiyoshi Asako
HE William Roebuck
HE Shaikh Hisham
Abdullateef Kanoo, Mazen Alumran & Mubarak Kanoo
16 August 2015
HE Kadri Al Sayeh
HE Qi Zhenhong
Salman Al Dosari & Shaikh Abdul Aziz
HE Vagif Garaev
Jano Mouawad & Aqeel Raees
HE Dato Ahmad
HE Alok Kumar
Mazen, Isa & HE Dr Abdulla Al Shaikh
Shaikh Al Asfoor
Ahmed Alumran
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Azadea Iftar Azadea Group held an Iftar gathering for its staff at Coral Bay. Ibrahim, Kamal, Fuad & Amro
Mahmood, Munia & Jamal
Maryjoy, Grace & Elaine
Eileen, Tshering & Yunita
Abdulla & Liezl
Mohammed, Noushad & Lokesh
Rand & Jerick
Emilyn, Cleda & Susan
Maricar & Analyn
Suman, Jacky & Suman
Kath & Glenda
Sree & Sujida
Irene, Veronika, Greg & Ameera
Four Seasons Ghabga Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held its first media ghabga at its Arabesquethemed Ramadan tent, Al Bahrain Ballroom. Altaf, Rauneet, Greg, Francesco & Suhaib
Howaida, Reem, Nehad & Noora
Guests try out the buffet
18 August 2015
Marzia, Fatima & Maryam
Reem & Sara
Andy, Marija & Lama
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Youth Iftar US Ambassador HE William Roebuck and his wife Ann, hosted an Iftar for Bahraini youth to celebrate the Holy month of Ramadan and the strong friendship between the United States and Bahrain. Students, exchange programme participants, NGO representatives and other young leaders attended the event. HE William Roebuck
Waleed & Janan
Sarah, Samar & Maram
Will
Amal & Ena Angie & Michelle
Sara
Zainab & Zainab
Noor, Fatema & Aisha
Tahera & Fatema
Noor, Beth & Budoor
Hayat, Mehr & Ashwa
Batool, Haifa & Hana
Ali & Isa Carla & Zain
Viva Ghabga
Viva Bahrain hosted a Ghabga party at Al Khayma, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa.
Patrice, Gassan, Nizar & Louis
Roland & Badriya
Imran & Samar
20 August 2015
Pearl & Heba
Omar & Tariq
Silvia & Alison
Sneha & Abigail
Imran
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bystander
Bin Hindi Ghabga
Bin Hindi Group held a Ghabga get-together for its management and staff.
Fahad, Naif, Abdulaziz, Khalid, Ahmed & Deena
Abdulla bin Hindi
Saeed, Keshav & Momen
Omar & George
Sheshadri & Shree
Shah
Sree, Suchitra & Harshin
Florida & Sheeny
Subeesh & Matthew
Ranjish
Fatema & Pooja
Khalil & Kareem
Zain Ghabga
Zain Bahrain hosted a media Ghabga at the Capital Club Ramadan tent. Samya, Dina, Ziyad, Fadwa, Hanan, Kasim & Dabya
Flipperachi, DJ Outlaw & Imran
Samya & Dabya
22 August 2015
Wedo & Hassan
Mazin & Ahmed
Ali
Mohammed & Awab
Dina & Kasim
Nasser & Hamed
Noor & Ali
Ali & Mohammed
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Bahrain: City Centre Bahrain- +973 16686212 & Seef Mall Muharraq +973 16639429 Saudi Arabia . Kuwait . Qatar . Oman . UAE
bystander
Maher
Abdulla, Kumail & Hussain
Mona
Ahmed, Ahmed & Lubna
Batelco Gulf Air Ghabga Batelco and Gulf Air held a media Ghabga at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Traditional Arabic entertainment
zaytzaytoon advert-125mm height x width 191mm.pdf
Azza & David
Osama & Ahmed
1
7/22/2015
Charlie
2:10:29 PM
Ali, Mo, Saeed, Hussain & Jaffer
C
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CM
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24 August 2015
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AUGUST
SPECTACULAR SUMMER!
2015.
HAPPENINGS
When? Ongoing – August 31 Event? Bahrain Summer Festival 2015 Venue? Various Locations
*Nakhool Garden Programme Week One: GCC Week (July 31-August 6) Week Two: Asian Week (August 7-13) Week Three: African Week (August 14-20) Week Four: European Week (August 21-31)
With summer in full swing, it’s that time again when, along with the temperature, the excitement for one of the most popular events on the island is also reaching an all time high. The much anticipated Bahrain Summer Festival 2015 is finally here to take us on its annual journey to yet another cultural extravaganza. The month-long festival, which started on July 30, has a variety of entertainment on offer, featuring fantastic family-oriented shows as
well as activities from a selection of top regional and international talents. The festival’s exclusive lineup of events has something for everyone, from musical concerts and theatrical productions to artistic showcases and avant-garde performances.
NAKHOOL GARDEN When? Ongoing - August 31 (daily) Event? Edutainment Venue? Tent at Sitra Mall The beloved Bahrain Summer Festival mascot, Nakhool, returns again this year to take kids on a fun-filled journey of discovery designed to educate the artistic young talents of tomorrow. Celebrate fun and culture with the adventurous duo, Nakhool
*Week 1: GCC Week When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Arabian Creations Workshop in cooperation with Twinkle Twinkle* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Palm Farm in cooperation with the National Initiative for Agricultural Development* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years A series of workshops to teach kids how to make various traditional things using palm trees, including baskets, ropes, fishing traps, bird cages, boats etc. There will also be a number of palm-related products and traditional games. E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
and Nakhoola, at the Nakhool Garden, which will showcase a diverse array of live shows and educational activities. Experience the cultural heritage of countries from around the globe in a family-friendly atmosphere through a plethora of interactive activities which develop the mind and facilitate dialogue between cultures. Various workshops and competitions will also be held throughout the duration of the festival.
When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Creativity Studio in cooperation with the Bahrain Science Centre* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
NAKHOOL GARDEN PROGRAMME 2015 Nakhool Theatre Date: Ongoing – August 31 (daily) Time: 4pm – 10pm Age: 2+ years This features a series of kid-friendly artistic performances, entertaining games and science competitions that develop young minds as well as multicultural musical and theatrical plays. Nakhool Superstar Competition 2015 (part of Nakhool Theatre) This is a daily competition that aims to discover young artistic talents between the ages of five and 15 years in various fields such as singing, music, poetry, diction and presenting, acting, impersonations and mimicry as well as modelling. Nakhool Kids Art Auction will also be www.bahrainthismonth.com
held as part of the programme. Other Nakhool Garden programmes include: Painting and Artist / Performance Art by Bahraini Artists Date: August 7, 14, 21 and 28 Time: 6pm Age: 2 – 15 years Children’s TV Date: Ongoing - August 31 (daily) Time: 4pm – 10pm Age: 2+ years Get nostalgic with a series of favourite vintage children’s programmes and cartoons as well as various animated films from around the world that will take kids on a magical journey. Fitness for Kids Featuring Baby Clay Date: Ongoing - August 31 (daily) Time: 4pm – 10pm
Age: 2 - 8 years Each week, the Baby Clay programme selects two folk games from different continents and teaches children how to play them, with a competition held at the end. The programme also includes gymnastics and physical fitness for a wholesome and fun environment. Traditional Games Corner Date: Ongoing - August 31 (daily) Time: 4pm – 10pm Age: 2 - 15 years Creativity Studio Date: Ongoing - August 31 (daily) Time: 4pm – 10pm Age: 2 - 15 years Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Up-cycling Workshop by Aisha Burashid* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Doll Making Workshop by Dunia Ahmed* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Traditional Weaving Workshop in cooperation with the Nasaej Project for Traditional Embroidery* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. August 2015 25
happenings
LALALUNA When? Ongoing - August 3 Event? Physical Theatre Venue? Cultural Hall
When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Printmaking Workshop by Jehan Saleh* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
What if, one evening, the light in the moon went out? This is the beginning of one very strange night called LaLaLuna, a surreal and whimsical tale of the moon’s caretaker as he struggles to re-light the darkened moon. Created by physical theatre playwright-actor Wolfe Bowart, this production appeals to both adults and children alike, combining circus, theatre and film woven together with a unique poetic and comic physical language. The shows on August 1 will be held at 4.30pm and 7.30pm and on August 2 and 3 at 7.30pm. Minimum age requirement is six years. Tickets are sold at Virgin Megastore and online at www.virginmegastore.me. Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh for more information.
BARNEY LIVE! WORLD TOUR When? August 10 -15 Event? Musical Theatre Venue? Cultural Hall
When? Ongoing–August 6, 4pm–10pm Event? Arabic Letters Workshop by Mohamed Reda* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
Small children will love this show as they join Barney and friends on their brand new adventure. Cousin Riff has sent Barney a special package in the mail – a beautiful globe of the world. Barney, BJ and Baby Bop must use the globe and follow the clues to find cousin Riff and a list of very special items. As they travel to France, Japan, India, China and Mexico, Barney and his friends have a terrific time learning about the language and culture of each new country. The shows from August 10-13 will be held at 4.30pm and 7.30pm and on August 14 and 15 at 11am, 4.30pm and 7.30pm. Minimum age requirement is two years. Tickets are sold at Virgin Megastore and online at www.virginmegastore.me. Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh for more information.
MASTER PIECES BY BALLET PHILIPPINES
26 August 2015
When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Lego WeDo Robotics / Creativity Studio by Shaima Salim* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 5 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Palm Farm in cooperation with the National Initiative for Agricultural Development* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Workshop to create artworks from recycled materials by Zeinab Yousif* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
When? August 10 Event? Ballet Venue? Bahrain National Theatre For those who appreciate the grace of dance, Ballet Philippines presents Master Pieces, a celebration of one of the Philippines’ most respected cultural institutions. Led by its artistic director Paul Alexander Morales, the show highlights a dazzling selection of the company’s most acclaimed works throughout its 45-year history, from timeless classical and neo-classical works to modern and contemporary dance pieces. The show will also feature excerpts from full-length modern ballets; a true testament to the
*Week 2: Asian Week When? August 7-13, 5pm–8pm Event? “Dance of Displacement” featuring Palestinian group “Beit Byout” in cooperation with the Palestinian Embassy* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 2+ years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Wood Sculpting workshop by Wahhab Taqi* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
company’s endless versatility. The show will be held at 8pm. Minimum age requirement is eight years. Tickets are sold at Virgin
Megastore and online at www. virginmegastore.me. Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh for more information.
When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Traditional photography corner by Jaffar Abdulhussein* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
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happenings
SESAME STREET LIVE ELMO MAKES MUSIC When? August 20 - 24 Event? Musical Theatre Venue? Cultural Hall Get ready for a musical event like no other where monsters make music! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all their Sesame Street friends share their love of music in this family-friendly show. Join the fun as they embark on starting a band and discover ‘instruments’ they never knew existed pots and spoons, trash can lids and even cookie jars! The show is fun and entertaining as everyone’s favourite furry and feathered friends teach children that we can create and enjoy beautiful music together.
When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Traditional Gypsum Carving Workshop by Jaffar Abdulhussein* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Colour Time Workshop by Mariam Janahi* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
The shows will be held at 4.30pm and 7.30pm. Minimum age requirement is one year. Tickets are sold at Virgin Megastore
TAZIRI TITI ROBIN ENSEMBLE When? August 25 Event? Song Venue? Cultural Hall
and online at www.virginmegastore.me. Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.
Widely recognised as a forerunner to the rise of the popular genre that became known as “world music”, French musician, composer and improviser extraordinaire Thierry “Titi” Robin made his mark in the music world with his signature personal style, known as “Mediterranean music”, which came from the union of Gypsy, Oriental and European cultures. This self-taught musical pioneer will be joined on stage by Moroccan musician Mehdi Nassouli to showcase how to artfully weave seemingly incompatible musical genres into brilliant and unique masterpieces. The show will be held at 8pm. Minimum age requirement is eight years. Tickets are sold at Virgin Megastore and online at www. virginmegastore.me. Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh for more information.
BEAT BUMPER WRECKING CREW ORCHESTRA When? August 28 - 29 Event? Street Dance Venue? Cultural Hall Dance lovers — this is right up your street! Come and witness the latest mesmerising show “Beat Bumper” by innovative Japanese street dance troupe Wrecking Crew Orchestra. This Osaka-based eight-member crew shot to global stardom by blending dance and music. Their perfectly choreographed sets are performed in the dark while wearing special futuristic illuminated costumes, creating a mind-blowing showcase that must be seen to be believed. 28 August 2015
When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Storytelling and Palestinian Folklore Music featuring Palestinian group “Beit Byout” in cooperation with the Palestinian Embassy* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 2+ years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Jewellery and Accessories Workshop by Amal Al-Majed* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 7-13, 4pm–10pm Event? Paper Quilling Art Workshop by Suchita Mangrulkar* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 7, 14, 21 and 28, 6pm Event? Painting and Artist / Performance Art by Bahraini Artists* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 2 – 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 10 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Coral Bay Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm. E Call 39 207-624.
The show will be held at 7pm. Minimum age requirement is five years. Tickets are sold at Virgin
Megastore and online at www. virginmegastore.me. Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.
When? August 12 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Coral Bay Indulge in your love for poetry and sharpen your writing skills at Coral Bay, 7.30 pm. E Call 39 207-624. www.bahrainthismonth.com
happenings
KEEP KIDS BUSY When? August 1 - 31 Event? Kids Summer Camp Venue? Sitra Mall Let your children have fun this summer in an indoor, cool and safe environment. Blue Bird Events brings inspiring and creative activities for children with the Kids Summer Camp 2015. The camp will be held at Sitra Mall for kids aged three to 10 years. The month-long camp is a supervised programme aimed at the educational and cultural development of children. Sessions feature fun activities such as arts and crafts, ball games, painting, camp art projects, team building activities, treasure hunts and clay modelling. The camp also offers
FUN IN THE SUN When? Ongoing – August 11 Event? Kids Summer Camp Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa
optional mall trips, skate boarding, ice skating, bowling, swimming, laser tagging and amusement rides. Additional entertainment includes movies and children’s TV shows, singing and story time. The camp will be held from Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 2pm and is priced at BD70 for 30 days and BD5 on a daily basis. As seats are limited, visit the registration desk at ground level, Sitra Mall, to register. Call 33 226-402 or 66 963-121.
SPLASH ABOUT When? August 1 – Throughout the Year Event? Water Sports Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa
*Week 3: African Week When? August 14-17, 4pm–10pm Event? Boat Making Workshop by Adel Mohammed* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 14-17, 4pm – 10pm Event? Memories on a Jar Workshop by Nawaf Al-Maloud* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 14-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Bahraini Embroidery Workshop in cooperation with Awal Women’s Society* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 12 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 14-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Recycling Art Workshop by Nouf Al-Riffai* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 14-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Traditional Collage Workshop by Wasn Al-Sawad* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
Don’t miss out on the last few weeks of activities at the Ritz Kids Summer Camp. Children between four and 12 years will have a whale of a time as they join expert Mindi for a variety of games and activities focusing on water, land, environmental responsibility and culture. The camp is held daily from 10am until 4pm at the Sports Club, priced at BD29 per day and BD160 per week for Royal Sporting Club members and hotel guests; and BD35 per day and BD195 per week for non-members. More information regarding prices for daily and weekly passes is available at the Sports Club reception desk. Call the Sports Club on 17 586-612 or email rc.bahrz.events@ritzcarlton.com. 30 August 2015
Keep cool and get fit as The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa opens its Water Sports Activity counter every day from 9am to 5pm. Enjoy the privacy of the lagoon with your family and indulge in various water sports activities such as kayaking for BD5 net per hour, standing paddle board for BD5 net per hour and seated pedal boat for BD10 net per hour. Non-members can also take advantage of the Royal Sporting Club facilities including the beach, indoor and outdoor pool and gym area with the Royal Sporting Club Day Pass Summer Promotion, until August 31, from 5am until 7pm. The value saving day passes are available for outside guests from Sundays to Thursdays for BD20 per adult and BD10 per child and on Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays for BD35 per adult and BD17 per child. Call the Sports Club on 17 586-612 or email rc.bahrz.events@ritzcarlton.com.
When? August 14-20, 8pm–10pm Event? Origami Workshop by artist Adel Al-Amoodi* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 14-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Cartoon Characters Design Workshop by Ahmed Mahdi* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 14-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Ceramic Forming Workshop* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
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happenings
HOW SMART ARE YOU? When? August 14-20, 8pm–10pm Event? European Folk Tales in cooperation with the British Council* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4- 5 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
When? August 13 Event? Quiz Venue? The Dilmun Club Wife and kids away for the summer? Bored alone at home? Then gather your mates and head down to the Dilmun Club for a fun and relaxing evening. Test how smart you are as the BSPCA holds a “Home Alone” quiz to entertain you. Enjoy the quiz with a burger and beer as well as a meaty man’s raffle that just costs a dinar, with lots of ‘bloke’ prizes. The quiz starts at 7.30pm and costs BD5 per person to participate. Teams and single players are welcome. All proceeds go to the Cat House Extension Project. Tickets are available from the Dilmun Club or can be reserved in advance. Bring your ticket with you to register your team’s name on the night. There is a BD2 entry for non-club members. Call Michelle on 33 121-769 to reserve your place.
When? August 16 Event? Operatic Movie Night (Madame Butterfly) Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net
PRACTISE HEALTHY LIVING When? August 14 Event? Yoga Workshop Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Learn the ancient art of Rishikesh yoga as La Fontaine holds a workshop by Adora Evasan. The workshop will introduce students to the practices of Rishikesh yoga, based on the methods developed in the Rishikesh region of the Himalayas. This method engages an extensive asana practice and the study of how to integrate yoga into one’s everyday life. The workshop will cover the four essential elements of yoga. The workshop will be held from 10am to 4pm and costs BD35, inclusive of vegetarian lunch. A 10 per cent discount is applicable if payment is received before August 7. A half day workshop, without lunch, from 10am to midday, costs BD20. Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.
COMBINING LEARNING AND EXCITEMENT When? August 2 - 20 Event? Summer Camp Venue? Sylvan Learning, North Sehla Keep your children’s boredom at bay this holiday season with the Summer Camp at Sylva Learning, where children will have an opportunity to learn and enjoy various exciting activities at the same time. The camp is fun for everyone, from ages five to 12 years, offering a wide variety of activities including robotics, swimming, field trips, cooking, arts and crafts, maths and English activities as well as outdoor games. It runs daily, from Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 1pm, priced at BD100 for one week and BD200 for three weeks. Call Sylvan Learning on 17 400-227. 32 August 2015
When? August 17 Event? Bahrain Writers’ Creative Workshop Venue? Coral Bay Learn how to work on your creative writing skills with a workshop at Coral bay, 7.30pm. E Call 39 207-624. When? August 18-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Carrier Trolley Making by Adel Mohammed* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 18-20, 4pm–10pm Event? Your Portrait on Wood Workshop by Nawaf Al-Maloud* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. *Week 4: European week When? August 20-21, 4pm–10pm Event? Dilmun Seals Workshop with the workshop by Ali Hussein* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 21-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Arabic Calligraphy Workshop by Murtada Al-Sakin* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 21-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Pottery Making and Colouring by artist Ghada* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Country? Bahrain Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
OPERATIC FILM SCREENING When? August 16 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art La Fontaine presents another interesting evening for opera lovers with a film screening of Madame Butterfly, one of the most-performed stage works in the world and considered the pivotal opera of Puccini’s career. This exquisite and highly acclaimed production from La Scala presents the tragic tale of a woman’s relentless struggle within a traditionally conformist society and a loveless marriage. Collaborating with Japanese specialists on lighting, choreography and design, Japanese director Keita
When? August 21-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Animation Workshop by Ahmed Mahdi* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 21-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Learn How to Plant Workshop by Manal Bucheery* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 7 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh.
Asari casts two of the Far East’s leading singers in the coveted female roles, resulting in a uniquely stylised and authentic production, bringing to life Madame Butterfly’s metamorphosis beautifully. Tickets are priced at BD10 and
the value can be used as credit at the venue’s restaurant on the same evening. Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www. lafontaineartcentre.net.
CALLING ALL ARTISTS When? August 15 Event? Art Exhibition Submission Venue? Malja, Amwaj Islands
GET FILMED! When? August 15 Event? Documentary Filming Venue? Malja, Amwaj Islands
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An open call goes out to all artists in Bahrain as Malja, a Red Bull space, gets set to launch its own exhibition at the gallery on September 5. The Malja Call Out exhibition is an open-concept exhibit, curated by Ramah Al Husseini, a fantastic visual artist in her own right, who has worked with Malja Bahrain since its launch. Ramah welcomes artists to submit up to five pieces of work that they feel best represents them and showcase their creativity. Visit www.maljabahrain.com to download the submission form and apply to have your work showcased. The deadline for submission is August 15. Follow Facebook: www.facebook.com/malja, Twitter and Instagram: @maljabahrain #bahrainculture #maljabahrain for more updates.
A great opportunity arises for artists in Bahrain as JEO Productions taps into the creative scene on the island. The company is running the Create Bahrain project, in which it will produce a series of short films documenting different types of artists from around the country, and participation is open to all. Tying in nicely with Malja Bahrain’s goal of promoting the art scene in Bahrain, JEO will be hosting the screening of the finished products at Malja on September 10. To apply and have JEO Productions document you and your artistic processes, email info@JEOProductions.com. Artists have until August 15 to apply. Follow Facebook: www.facebook.com/malja, Twitter and Instagram: @maljabahrain #bahrainculture #maljabahrain for more updates.
When? August 21-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Cartoon Character Drawing Workshop by Abdullah Al-Blooshi* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 4 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 22-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Traditional Toy Making Workshop by Adel Ali* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 24-26, 4pm–10pm Event? Flower Arranging Workshop by Manal Bucheery* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 8 - 11 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 25 Event? Taziri: Titi Robin Ensemble (Song) Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh. When? August 27-31, 4pm–10pm Event? Growing Plants in Glass Workshop by Manal Bucheery* Venue? Nakhool Garden Tent, Sitra Mall Age? 12 - 15 years E Call 39 998-781 or email nakhool2015@culture.gov.bh. When? August 28-29 Event? Beat Bumper by Wrecking Crew Orchestra (Street Dance) Venue? Cultural Hall E Call 80 008-089, 17 569-104 or visit www.bahrainsummer.bh.
August 2015 33
bystander
Reem & Sam
Hassan & Tawfeeq
Peter & Anas
Abdulaziz & Abdul Aziz Bucheeri
Arabian Taxi Launch Under the patronage of HE Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Transportation Minister, the Arabian Taxi fleet launched the addition of two brands of cars, at the Seef Mall Muharraq. Ribbon-cutting ceremony
Tawfeeq, Ebrahim, Nedhal, HE Kamal Bin Ahmed, Maryam & Safa
34 August 2015
Zain & Fatema
George & Robert
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bystander
Kanoo Majlis The Kanoo Family received a number of wellwishers and guests at their majlis in Mahooz. Abdulaziz Kanoo, Shaikh Mohamed Bin Abdullah Al Khalifa & Mubarak Kanoo
Khalil Shakeeb & Khalid Kanoo
Fawaz Bahzad
Ahmed Al Ansari, Ahmed Kanoo & Nabeel Kanoo
HE Kadri Al Sayeh & HE Taha Qadir
Tariq Kanoo & Fawzi Kanoo
BIA Ghabga Bahrain International Airport held a media Ghabga at the Capital Club Ramadan tent. Mohammed, Hussain, Mohammed & Mohammed
Abdulla
Mohammed
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Maliha
Irene & Shaikha
August 2015 35
afterdark happenings
HIT THE DANCE FLOOR When? Daily except Fridays Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Txoko, The Domain Hotel & Spa Free selected beverages for the girls all night from 4pm-2am. E Call 66 395-608. When? Tuesdays Event? Food and drinks promotion Venue? Brazil Rodizio Grill, Adliya Ladies get unlimited food and drinks for BD12, guys pay BD20. E Call 17 826-686.
When? Wednesdays Event? Cocktail promotion Venue? Camelot, Adliya Unlimited cocktails from the new menu for BD5 from 7pm. E Call 39 977-540. When? Wednesdays till August 19 Event? Salsa Ladies’ Night Venue? Meisei, Adliya Salsa dancing and free sparkling for the ladies until 11pm. E Call 17 007-770. When? Wednesdays Event? Guys Night Venue? Cellar 59, Art Rotana, Amwaj Guys night, buy one get one free on schooners of cold beer. E Call 33 165-333.
The island’s nightlife scene is finally re-awakening after the summer break with new bands, the chance for talented singers to shine, a new nightclub and international DJs visiting. At the freshly-minted Cavallo Club, in Juffair’s Atiram Premier Hotel, resident DJ- Jono, from South Africa, will be mixing it up from house, dance and commercial to Top 40 tunes, R&B and hip hop. And since August is the opening month there are a whole host of international DJs and local favourites set to guest on the decks including DJ Swing, DJ Windy City, DJ Neil, DJ Peekaboo and DJ Craig flying in from London. A team of beautiful dancers from Scotland is also promised, and we don’t think they’re talking highland fling. The programme of events is still to be confirmed so keep an eye on the club’s Facebook page for more details. Over at Klub 360, at the Elite Crystal Hotel, the legendary Pacha Ibiza on Tour makes a return to the island on Friday, August 7, with DJ Maxine Hardcastle. Known for blistering 36 August 2015
dance floor sets that foster the best party atmosphere, the Pacha DJs take the spirit of the ‘White Island’ around the world and Bahrain will be no different. DJ Maxine, who is also a singer and songwriter, has been known to take to the mic during her appearances and has several recordings to her name with another huge club brand, Hed Kandi. And if you think the name sounds familiar, A. you’re giving away your age and B. you would be right, her dad’s Paul Hardcastle who ‘revolutionised the sound of 80s’ pop with the song 19. Tickets are BD15 for ladies and BD20 for men. For reservations call 33 360-300. Auditions for one of the island’s favourite singing competitions, The Vocalist, kicks off at Harvesters at the Crowne Plaza on August 15 when a panel of three judges will have the difficult task of picking a group of talented songsters to go through to the knock out stages of the contest. Last year was a nail biting battle right up to the final so, even if your only singing is done in the bath, it’s a good one to go along and watch and cheer on your favourites.
When? Thursdays Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Cellar 59, Art Rotana, Amwaj Three free drinks for ladies between 5pm-2am. E Call 33 165-333. When? Fridays Event? Ladies’ Night Venue? Ibrida, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Unlimited selected drinks for BD5 from 9pm-1am. E Call 36 897-378. When? August 7 Event? Saxy Sunset Venue? Zoe Lounge Freeflowing bubbly, vino and canapes for ladies only from 7pm-10pm, then open to the public. E Call 17 716-400.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
ULTIMATE SING-OFF Amateur vocalists are being urged to belt out a tune to packed houses during one of the Kingdom’s leading singing competitions. CROWNE PLAZA
Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s singing competition, The Vocalist, is set to return to Harvesters Bar & Terrace with new themes, judges, prizes and a whole lot of entertainment. Participants are given the opportunity to perform live on a weekly basis with the club’s exciting in-house band and dancers. This eagerly anticipated annual event has proved to be a great learning experience and a launch pad for many aspiring singers on the island. “The vocalist was a real starting point for me,” said Paige Baker, the winner of last year’s competition. “It gave me so much positive experience, not only with regards to my singing, but my performance as a whole. I was given the opportunity to make my mark as a lead singer of a fully functioning band and I cannot thank the guys at Crowne Plaza enough for the opportunity.” Cheryl Sanchez, last year’s first runner-up believes there’s no other competition like The Vocalist in Bahrain. “There are karaoke competitions all around, but no one gives singers, like me, the opportunity to perform with a group of people who have been playing every night together,” she explains. Harvester’s in-house band, Groove Thing, will ensure that all the participants are kept in line and are given a fair chance to do what they love to do the most, performing and entertaining. This year there will also be a new group of dancers to accompany the singers and provide that extra ‘wow’ factor. Auditions start on August 15 at Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Bahrain, in front of a panel of three judges. Anyone aged 18 and above with a valid CPR card can enter the competition. Application forms are available at the hotel, or can be downloaded from Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s Facebook page. Audition spaces are limited so submit your form as soon as possible, here’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss! Call 17 531-122.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 37
afterdark happenings
LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU
The Explosions at Downtown
With the party season gaining momentum, Bahrain This Month brings you a round up of the new bands at your favourite hotspots. Most pubs and nightclubs around the island have introduced a fresh line up of in-house entertainment and revellers are in for a treat. Here’s a list of the latest live acts around the city and the venues where you can catch them. At Ibrida, in Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, you can look forward to new resident band Energy and DJ Andy Gates. With an impressive track record, the seven-member band has performed in some of the premier venues in Southern California including the Key Club on the Sunset Strip in North Hollywood. The band has even recorded with established artists including Faith Evans. Club Buffalo, in Juffair’s Ramee California Hotel, welcomes its new in-house band, Overnight. Sylvio, April, Max-Andy, Terena, Julien, Gabriel and William will be onstage doing what they do the best. Their high-octane performances are expected to be the highlight of the club this season. Catch the band Converge live in action at Warbler, one of the island’s oldest Englishthemed pubs. A group of dynamic and versatile vocalists and musicians, they perform a wide variety of songs from numerous genres including R&B, disco, dance, alternative, rock, reggae, jazz and crossover music. Dance the night away at Rocky’s Café, in Ramee International Hotel, which is now home to a Canadian band Overdrive. They take the 38 August 2015
stage every night from 9pm and their unique sound and live arrangements will surely leave you asking for more. The band Stereo Revolution joins Dublin in Ramee Palace Hotel, adding another dimension to the club’s entertainment. The band delivers exemplary performances covering genres like pop, rock, indie, jazz and motown to name a
few. Packed with an extraordinary energy the frontline performances by vocalists Alex, Joanna and Claire are perfectly complemented by Jamie on the keys, Ryan on bass and William on drums. The Hub at Ramee Monroe Hotel welcomes its new band Widespread, which delivers action-packed performances for the club’s loyal guests. Get blown away by The Explosions at InterContinental Regency Bahrain’s Downtown
Intencion
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Bar. This is a six-piece band comprising of Danny on drums, Dale on guitars, Sean on bass / vocals, Tom on keyboards / vocals and Danielle and Lixie on lead vocals. Formerly based in the UK, The Explosions have performed around the world including New Zealand, Dubai, Bahrain and Australia and have been around for a while on the world cruise scene. Their sound is a pleasant mixture of hard rock, pop, funk, dance, groove and everything in-between. Trader Vic’s, home to Johnny and his exotic band, adds another musical attraction in the form of four beautiful Cuban ladies playing percussion, saxophone, piccolo and piano. Having previously played at several luxury resorts in Cuba and Florida, the stunning quartet are incredibly happy to be performing in Bahrain. The band plays daily from 9pm until late. Furthermore, from the first week of October, keep an eye-out for a new European trio who will be setting the party scene early-on every evening from 5.30pm until 9pm with a host of classic pop anthems. Talented duo Cris and Toni perform at Sherlock Holmes Bar in Gulf Hotel every Saturday and Tuesday. Cris, who plays the saxphone, guitar and quatro, comes from Cuba and Toni, on vocals, clarinet and guitar is from Ukraine. Together they produce a melodic backdrop to your evenings filling it with jazz, pop, Latin and romantic instrumental tunes. Sionelle Mallon and Byron Abrahams form the talented duo Deux Sons who perform Saturday to Thursday at Mezzanine Lounge in The Westin. From the UK and South Africa respectively, their repertoire ranges across old and new hits, acoustic ballads, blues, country, folk, jazz, pop, reggae and hip-hop. They also
Cris & Toni Duo at Sherlock Holmes
perform every Wednesday (Ladies’ Night) at the Boudoir Lounge. Five Canadians, a Thai and a Scot make the vibrant ensemble that is Shockwave. You can catch them performing every night except Sundays at Davy Crockett’s in Hotel Diva from 9.15pm onwards. They play an eclectic mix of rock, old and new hits and will even take requests. The all-girl band Intencion takes charge of entertainment at the Al Nada Lounge in Sheraton Hotel Bahrain. They play an extensive and diverse selection of all the latest dance, pop, R&B, hip hop and rock songs.
The Exchange English Pub in Ramada Bahrain has happy hours from 6pm to 10pm and live music by talented trio, The Notes. The band performs every night except Mondays. At The K Hotel’s K Lounge, unwind after work or enjoy a fun evening with friends while the Sparkling Duo entertains you. Alex and Julia excel in a wide range of musical genres and take the stage every night, except Sundays. Balq Velvet in Grand Safir Hotel is home to a six-member band called The 7th East Side & Dax Martin. An energetic group of musicians and singers, they perform all your favourite hits with their own signature flare.
Energy at Ibrida
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August 2015 39
afterdark happenings
ROCKING NEW LINE-UP RAMEE GROUP Converge Band at The Warbler
This month sees a number of new bands grace the island’s favourite hotspots, hoping to strike a chord with music fans across Bahrain.
Overdrive Band at Rocky’s Café
Receive a roaring welcome at Club Buffalo in Juffair’s Ramee California Hotel from its new in-house band, Overnight. The Wild West gets a whole lot wilder as the talented sevenmember group takes to the stage. The band is sure to entertain with impressive choreography and powerful vocals. Playing a wide variety of hits from across the years, this 40 August 2015
group aims to keep you dancing all night long. In addition to top-class entertainment, Buffalo’s bar counter is stocked with a neverending supply of your favourite beverages. Along with the usual specialities, there are many other heady concoctions that promise to make your evenings even more fun. Call 39 688-207.
Drop in for a night of great entertainment at The Warbler, one of the island’s oldest Englishthemed pubs. Located in Ramee Baisan Hotel, the venue claims to be “proudly old fashioned”. The pub hosts a new resident band, Converge — a group of dynamic and versatile musicians who can perform a wide variety of songs. Their entertaining stage act includes the latest hits from a wide selection of genres. Although the decor at this iconic venue is quintessentially British, the food on offer is truly international. The pub has also become increasingly famous for its fun-filled Friday brunch or “frunch” as it is popularly called. Great ambiance and its F&B offerings are not the only things to look forward to. This is a great venue to catch all the sporting action with your mates. The space is filled with big plasma screens that show all major games and matches live. Call 17 290-600. Rocky’s Café at Ramee International Hotel adds a touch of whimsy. In addition to its stylish www.bahrainthismonth.com
atmosphere, a long list of beverages and lipsmacking grub, the venue is now home to Canadian band Overdrive, who will take the stage every night from 9pm. Having tasted success across the globe, this group has made Rocky’s its new home and promises electrifying performances each night. The band’s unique vibe and show-stopping energy will have you rushing to the dance floor. This energetic group of talented musicians will play all of today’s greatest hits alongside your favourite classics covering genres like R&B, hip-hop, pop, disco and reggae. Also contributing to the entertainment is DJ Chunk from the UK, who spins a progressive blend, enticing you to groove to house, rock, hip-hop, new age, funk, electro, Motown and top-40 tunes. Rocky’s Café offers a perfectly sized menu that is sure to bring satisfaction with every selection. Try its famous Black Angus beef steaks, which come with a free half bottle beverage. Call 36 289-349. A popular haunt among islanders, especially with the US Navy, Dublin’s hosts a new in-house band, Stereo Revolution. Known to be versatile, hard hitting, young and lively, the band’s act carries influences of pop, rock, indie, jazz and Motown styles, to name a few.
Stereo Revolution at Dublin
Head down to check them out; they have been rehearsing non-stop and are ready to take Dublin’s by storm. They play from Monday to Saturday, 9pm onwards. The atmosphere at the club is always friendly, irrespective of the massive footfall it receives.
The friendly staff serve you with a beaming smile even on the busiest of nights. There are regular drink promotions throughout the week and a host of pub grub that goes brilliantly well with the concoctions on the menu. Call 34 092-770 or 39 610-405. Overnight Band at Club Buffalo
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 41
bystander
Ramee Iftar The Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa hosted an Iftar gathering at the Acacia Ballroom. Rania, Erika, Filmena & Jerisa
Prasad, Raj & Jeeban
Biljna
42 August 2015
HE Alfonso & Mrs Ferdinand
Hari, Ali & Shiju
Mehmet, Thess, Maria & Ali
Vanessa & Cynthia
Kat, Cynthia & Hilary
Agustianto & Art
Ronnie
Sagar & Noel
Gopika, Nalin & Karan
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Majeed
Abdul Nabi, Aaryanka & Ahmed
Aaryanka’s Cradle Ceremony
Ehaan, Dr Shabeena, Dr Jaleel & Mehek
Mr and Mrs Giridhar celebrated the cradling ceremony of their daughter Aaryanka with close family and friends at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa.
Dr Radha
Mr & Mrs Giridhar with Aaryanka
Iqbal, Yousuf & Siddique Ajeesh
Cake-cutting
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Ranni, Sharal & Smitha
Dr Vinod
Dr Praveen, Belinda, Brennen & Dr Brighta
August 2015 43
bystander
Mohammed Jalal Majlis
Jalal & Habib
Mohammed Jalal played host to a number of businessmen and well-wishers at his majlis during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Jalal family members with their guests
Farouq & Fuad Khamis & Yousif
Rahad, Fahad & Fawaz
Hesham & Salman
Jalal & Dr Khalifa
Bashar, Abdul & Sami
Dr Wadiya & Nabil
44 August 2015
Fuad & Hussain
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Viren, Rhinal & Rekha
Roya, Seema & Khalid
Rotary Club of Salmaniya’s Ghabga The Rotary club of Salmaniya hosted its 44th anniversary ghabga for members and guests at the Golden Tulip’s Ramadan tent. Neman, Ehsan & Faisal
Andrew & Raed
Osama, Ahmed & Mazin
The Rotary Club of Salmaniya team
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 45
bystander
BSB Graduation The British School of Bahrain held a graduation ceremony at the Al Areen Palace & Spa. Dr Abdul Ghani Al Shuwaikh from the Ministry of Education presented the awards. The graduating batch
Dr Abdul Ghani awards a scholarship student
Daniel, Devlin, Michelle & Carl
David & Emad
Fatima & Fouzia
Dana & Beatrice
Stephen & Tariq
Bhavika & Alessandra
Celine & Afra
Mohammed, Syed & Nasser
Sarah, Noor & Hassan
Nilushi & Thivanka
Noora & Mayar
Yara & Jessica
City Centre Gergaoun City Centre Bahrain hosted a traditional Gergaoun event in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development for children. Kids entertainment
Um Abdulla & Anas
Yousif & Ahmed
46 August 2015
Faizal & Lameez
Sawsan & Ali
Hussain & Latifa
Soud & Abdul Aziz
Umaimath & Emad
Abdul Rahman & Mustafa
Hanan & Hassa
Alanoud & Fajar
www.bahrainthismonth.com
INTERVIEWS ALSO THIS MONTH: 50 THE MORAL OF THE STORY 52 DIGGING FOR TREASURE 54 JLR BACKSEAT CHAT
S
hahd, 22, recently took the top place in the Youth Pioneer Society “Chance” programme — which rewards the top three candidates with a helping hand to get their fledgling projects off the ground and become real life entrepreneurs. Besides the thrill of coming first, Shahd was also presented with an office space and phone line, free of charge, for a year to help her develop her business — offering PR services and events management to other young entrepreneurs. “Mievento creative hub is the first public relations organisation in the country to specialise in the youth market,” she explains. “We do marketing, design and events management focused on young entrepreneurs like ourselves because we want to help people the same way we were helped. “The idea was to focus on the youth market, it differentiated us from others in the programme. I’ve been working on this idea for a while and already had a great team behind me so I had an advantage over other people who didn’t even have a business plan.” After six years of work experience in PR, sales and events, Shahd came up with the idea to branch out and taking part in the programme seemed like a natural progression. “I experienced the Bahraini market and I know how it works in this field but, I also know what it lacks and that is what gave me the edge to bring something new to the market,” she says. “I made up my mind that I don’t want to graduate and get a regular job but take the risk and start up my own.” Funnily enough, starting her own business was not Shahd’s first career choice. “I don’t come from an academic business background, I studied to become an architect,” she says. “My background in architecture helped me realise the importance of having a strong foundation and Mievento definitely does. We are a great team because we know each other’s strengths and trust each other.” Her team comprises of people she has worked with for at least two years, all with experience in the youth market and the knowledge of how to communicate or promote to younger people in a way they can relate to. 48 August 2015
YOUTH IN DEMAND CHARLIE HOLDING Entrepreneurial Bahraini Shahd Al Zaki is encouraging other youngsters to follow in her footsteps and reach for their dreams. Shahd Al Zaki
“We are a young creative team that knows how to speak to youth because we are in the same age range and we have working experience with them,” says Shahd. Despite already having an idea in mind, Shahd says that the support the programme offered her was invaluable. “During the programme I had great mentorship and people were really helpful. We had to stick to deadlines to ensure everything was done in time and everybody worked really hard,” she says. According to Shahd, the most rewarding part of the business so far has been waking up in
the morning and having a purpose in life and a goal to achieve and fight for. “Having a great team with an awesome youthful environment to work in makes me want to go fast to the office every day,” she explains. “We work on different projects every day, which is ideal for me, as I hate routine at work or in my lifestyle.” The Youth Pioneer Society “Chance” programme aims to develop entrepreneurial spirit among young Bahrainis by providing them with the opportunity to participate with and get trained by a group of professional trainers, mentors and young entrepreneurs. www.bahrainthismonth.com
interview
Jamie O’Dowd
THE MORAL OF THE STORY
S
CHARLIE HOLDING A Bahrain-based author is hoping to entertain and educate youngsters with his new book on the importance of friendship and good behaviour.
choolteacher Jamie O’Dowd’s innovative interpretation of a master’s degree assignment has led to the creation of a children’s story with a difference. The married father-of-two was tasked with ‘the project’, a module from Manchester Metropolitan University that aimed to move him away from his main dissertation (a novel). “It was initially a project for my master’s in children’s literature,” explains Jamie. “The story was born out of one of the modules and I never would’ve had the know-how or gumption to actually put a book like this together without it. “The idea was to pick something completely separate and communicate your story in a different medium.” Some people did scripts or radio productions, but Jamie wanted to bring his teaching knowledge and understanding of personal, social and health education into a short illustrated story. He did just that and, shortly after, Uggy and Pal: 50 August 2015
The ‘Best Friend Forever’ Problem came to life. “I wanted to step away from my comfort zone, working with teenagers,” Jamie says. “I thought, what is the most common issue children face, and I know from having my own children, it’s friends falling out and knowing how to behave with a friend.” This is a ‘Read, Talk and Play’ book which has questions designed to encourage the young reader to think about their own behaviour with their peers and short drama activities to act out scenarios regarding behaviour and friendship. “As an English teacher, I know we often struggle to get parents to read with their kids,” says Jamie. “This story has a message behind it and an educational context, it goes beyond just reading and assimilating information and helps readers actually experience the situations more.” The first book sees Uggy’s rough behaviour causing a problem in their friendship. However, with the help of their class teacher, Mrs Fearn, the boys learn a simple rhyme to help them keep their behaviour in check.
The imaginary childhood friends of Jaime’s brother inspired the book’s titular characters. “He didn’t know I’d used them until the book was published,” he explains. “When he was a naughty boy as a young child, he used to blame it on Uggy and Pal so this was kind of a nod to him.” As part of his research for the book, Jamie spent time with year one pupils at St Christopher’s School to learn how they interacted with each other. Jamie says that the school has provided him with tremendous support. “St Chris purchased 175 copies of the book, which enabled me to self-publish through Amazon,” Jamie explains. “The books are now being used in classrooms, including some overseas thanks to my teacher friends in different countries.” Jamie’s colleague, Kirsty McKay, handled the book’s illustration and the two have plans to expand Uggy and Pal into a three-part series. There are plans to print another 100 copies for sale at bookstores across the island. www.bahrainthismonth.com
Interview
Digging for Treasure LIZ O’REILLY BTM speaks to Dr Pierre Lombard, leader of the French Archaelogical Mission which recently made a significant discovery at Qal’at Al Bahrain.
T
he mission was launched in the Kingdom in 1977 by Dr Monik Kervran and Dr Pierre first worked with the team as a student in 1979 returning as mission director in 1989. The French Archaeological Mission in Bahrain is mainly a joint venture between the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. But the team, which is based in Lyon, France, has strong links with the University of Lyon, the French National Center for Scientific Research (Dr Pierre’s own institution) and the Louvre Museum in Paris. The team comprises five archaeologists (including two students) and one architectdraftsman, all of them present during each digging season. In addition, there are experts covering various research fields including philology and epigraphy (notably for ancient Akkadian or Greek languages, as ancient texts or inscriptions are always expected at Qal’at al-Bahrain), Chinese ceramics (particularly abundant in Bahrain) and different environmental sciences. “I especially want to emphasize here the crucial importance of the environmental approach in our research,” says Dr Pierre. “By their presence alongside the archaeologists, the specialists of archaeobotany, archaeozoology and geomorphology, greatly help to reconstruct the daily life of the ancient populations we are studying, their diet habits and the landscapes changes around them.” Archaeologists working in the ancient Near East always hope to find written documents to confirm their historical interpretations. Several years ago, the French team discovered the archives of the Middle Dilmun Palace of Qal’at al-Bahrain, with about 100 cuneiform clay tablets, written in Akkadian and illustrating the daily administrative life of this institution around BC1450. Says Dr Pierre : ‘’Last spring, we discovered a new text, almost complete, which, after study 52 August 2015
by our epigraphists, appeared to be from a completely different phase, the Achaemenid period, about BC505. The text even bore the date of its production! Curiously, it is a legal contract concerning a loan of dates between two individuals, prepared in the most regular way, with a due date, the names of the witnesses of the transaction... It is very moving to find, almost intact, such a concrete witness to the daily life of the ancient Bahrainis ! ‘’ For the future, he expects to work on the project
for around one more year before concentrating on publication of the findings, which he hopes will bring more awareness of he site. He says : ‘’One of my main personal targets, being an archaeologist in Bahrain, is to act for the dissemination of our scientific results to the wider public. I am quite proud of the conception, some years ago, of the Qal’al al-Bahrain Site Museum, a wonderful project where the collaboration between the architect and the archaeologist was absolutely perfect.’’ www.bahrainthismonth.com
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 53
interview
To view the video, scan the QR Code, or visit www.bahrainthismonth.com. JAGUAR LAND ROVER
BACKSEAT CHAT Take a ride back in time with this islander whose talent and relentless dedication took him from university corridors to brushing shoulders with music royalty.
54 July 2015
Former medical student Mirza Al Sharif’s life changed forever after hearing a Cuban percussionist play bongos at a London club in the early 50s. “I was watching him and was completely fascinated by it,” he tells George Middleton as the two traverse Amwaj Islands, riding in the backseat of a Land Rover Discovery Sport. Mirza has spent the better part of his life pursuing his twin passions of percussion and Latin music. An active live musician and studio artist in London in the 50s and 60s, when the scene was abuzz with the sound of rock ‘n’ roll and ethnic music, he is a treasure trove of anecdotes and stories. He is famously rumoured to have played with guitar virtuoso Carlos Santana, but says it is simply a myth. “I didn’t perform with him but one of the musicians in Santana’s band, Armando Peraza, was my good friend and we used to jam together in different clubs,” he says. However, his claim to fame doesn’t stop there. He clearly remembers meeting Jimi Hendrix in London at a music-shop. “I used to see him nearly every day at this shop called Drum City in Shaftsbury Avenue,” he explains. “He was a very tall, humble and down-toearth person; very gentle.” Mirza recalls as one of his most special moments on
Mirza Al Sharif with George F Middleton
stage, when he performed at the Albert Hall in a charity show, entertaining a host of VIPs including Lord Angus Ogilvy. He also fervently talks about collaborating with Puerto Rican guitarist, singer and composer, José Feliciano. “Not long ago, he came to Bahrain and I was asked to play conga drums with him. We did a concert together here, at the Hilton Hotel.” One of his most valued accomplishments to date is an LP that he produced in 1969. The record was titled Latin Beatles by The Mirza Men. In the mid 50s, Mirza was regularly featured on British television. “There were only two main channels back then, BBC and ITV,” he adds. He also got a chance to be part of the second instalment in the James Bond movie franchise, From Russia With Love. “I had to play the part of a gypsy musician,” Mirza says. “We worked on it for a week but on the film you just see a short clip.” Now, whenever Mirza gets an opportunity, he likes to jam with the Cuban band at Trader Vics or meets his friends for coffee over conversations about history, art, photography and his extensive stamp collection. Watch the complete interview with Mirza Al Sharif on Bahrain This Month’s website and YouTube channel. www.bahrainthismonth.com
india independence
A Special Supplement Commemorating India's 69th Independence Day
56 Building on Strong Ties HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Indian Ambassador, on getting to know Bahrain and plans for the future.
58 CII Comes to Bahrain CS Raghavan explains the role of the new Confederation of Indian Industry office.
60 Service Before Self President Nivedita Dutta on the history and current operations of the Indian Ladies Association.
62 The Best of India From waste management to retail and banking, the island’s Indian business community continues to expand.
71 Indian Fine Dining A look at some of the island’s favourite Indian dining and entertainment venues.
78 Travel India Off the beaten track in the sub-continent.
Commercial Index Al Tawfeek.............................................................. 67, 68 Atiram Premier Hotel.................................................. 76 Bahrain Cinema Company......................................... 64 The Gulf Hotel.............................................................. 73 Landmark Group.......................................................... 57 Life Insurance Corp...................................................... 69 Little Chef Restaurant................................................. 75 Lulu Hypermarket......................................................... 00 Mega Mart.................................................................... 65 State Bank of India...................................................... 70 The Raymond Shop...................................................... 61 The Yellow Chilli.......................................................... 71
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 55
india independence HE Alok Kumar Sinha
Building on Strong Ties BTM speaks with the new man in charge at the Indian Embassy to find out his impressions of Bahrain and plans for the future.
56 August 2015
Indian Ambassador, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, may only have been in Bahrain a few months but he was already well acquainted with the island thanks to working closely with his predecessor on the new Indian embassy, which he hopes will be open in time for the country’s Republic Day in January 2016. This is Ambassador Sinha’s first posting as ambassador but he is well experienced for the job having been second in command at India’s embassy in Nepal and prior to that at the Permanent Mission of India at the UN in New York. Of his posting to Bahrain, HE says: “Everybody I spoke to told me what a wonderful place Bahrain is, how very hospitable and friendly. And, since I’ve been here, I’ve found that to be true, it truly is a wonderful place. “Being here during Ramadan gave me the opportunity to meet many dignitaries and business leaders in a short space of time and they have all been extremely welcoming and keen to work for building on the already excellent Bahraini/Indian relationship.” He also had the opportunity to meet a wide spectrum of the Indian community when the embassy organised an event for the International Day of Yoga at the end of June. He says: “This was a great opportunity to meet so many members of the community and there are also many organisations doing a lot of good work here so it was a chance to learn about them too.” Ambassador Sinha says his mission and that of the embassy is to protect and promote the interests of the Indian community and to further encourage bilateral relations.
Reflecting on the high-level visits which saw both His Majesty King Hamad and the His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Shaikh Salman, travelling to India in 2014 and the Indian Minister of External Affairs, HE Sushma Swaraj, visiting Bahrain, HE says: “Automatically, what follows from these visits is the agreements that are signed. Much of the embassy’s work in the coming years is to maintain that momentum and take it to a higher level for economic ties and investment between the two countries. “The current level of trade between India and Bahrain is around USD2 billion per year and there is certainly room for this to grow. “Recently the Skill India programme has been launched which is aimed at ensuring that we have the people with the proper skills to back up investments. The Make in India and Digital India programmes launched earlier would also facilitate investments and ease of doing business with India. “Of course, the actual investment must come from the private sector but, for our part, the embassy is actively encouraging exchange visits and seeking to reactivate mechanisms such as the joint business council. “I see both India and Bahrain emerging as business hubs for setting up manufacturing bases for promoting trade with each other and even beyond.” With busy times ahead, Ambassador Sinha, who is here with his wife Mamta, has little time for hobbies but he says one thing that’s guaranteed to tear him away from his computer is walking his dog, a pet he acquired during his time in Nepal which has travelled the world with him. www.bahrainthismonth.com
india independence
CII Comes to Bahrain
His Majesty King Hamad’s historic visit to India paved the way for the new CII office
His Majesty receives a delegation from the Indian business community
CII spokesman CS Raghavan told Bahrain This Month about the role of the newly established office of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in the Kingdom.
58 August 2015
Founded in 1895, the CII is India’s leading business organisation with members around the globe. It has been engaged in the GCC for more than 20 years and aims to promote trade, investment and economic co-operation between India and the West Asia region. A non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and industry-managed organisation, the CII has over 7,800 members from the private as well as public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an indirect membership of over 200,000 enterprises from around 240 national and regional sectoral industry bodies. It has 66 offices, including nine Centres of Excellence, in India, and seven overseas offices in Australia, China, Egypt, France, Singapore, the UK and the USA, as well as institutional partnerships with 312 counterpart organisations in 106 countries with Bahrain being the latest addition to this impressive list. Raghavan says: “The initiative to open a CII office in
Bahrain, to serve the region, was made during the visit of a high level Economic Development Board delegation to the CII Partnership Summit in January, 2014, and during the visit of His Majesty King Hamad to India in February 2014.” An MoU was signed to establish the CII office and an Indo–Bahraini Business Forum to provide continuity to the business activities and in the larger interest of promoting trade and investment between both nations. Raghavan explains: “Internationally, CII works towards providing its membership clearer strategies based on deeper insights and analytical perceptions of emerging realities. At the forefront in helping Indian business connect and interact with global business, CII has activated a multi-pronged strategy for global networking. Meeting heads of state and government, decision makers, networking with counterpart organisations, multilateral and academic institutions and other policy making bodies, CII’s alternate diplomacy ensures continued access to emerging opportunities for its membership. The network of seven overseas offices helps us disseminate vital information related to markets and joint venture possibilities to Indian and foreign companies. “With regard to Indo — Bahrain co-operation, CII’s role will be to promote co-operation between Bahraini and Indian businesspeople in the aspects of business, trade and investment; promote business alliances through identification of possible partners leading to joint ventures; promote CII services to national companies through its various Centres of Excellence which cover areas such as quality, manufacturing excellence, environment and green business; develop synergies with local companies and explore business opportunities in third countries; promote participation in each other’s trade fairs and exhibitions and support each other’s seminars and conferences.” Areas already identified for co-operation between Bahrain and India include: information and communication technology and telecoms; education; healthcare; new technologies including green technology and biotech; food processing and agri business; infrastructure; manufacturing — SME development and services such as banking, financial and logistics A large number of MoUs were signed during His Majesty’s Indian visit in areas from finance to manufacturing and Raghavan concludes: “Our plans for the future are to work strongly to promote co-operation and investment in the above sectors and create success stories of joint ventures and business alliances between India and Bahrain.” www.bahrainthismonth.com
india independence
Service Before Self President Nivedita Dutta tells Bahrain This Month about the work of the Indian Ladies’ Association (ILA) which celebrates its 60th anniversary next year.
60 August 2015
The first women’s expat organisation in the GCC, the ILA was founded in 1956 by Mrs Leela Jashanmal who, coming from a business family, wanted to give something back to the community. At that time there was little to do in Bahrain, so she and her friends would get together and stitch clothing and bake for under-privileged local families. The group was officially incorporated with the Ministry of Social Development in 1983 but, by that stage, it had already been operating for several years and regularly carried out good works in the community. Nivedita says: “I was privileged to meet Mrs Jashanmal, before she passed in 2001, and she told me about the group’s motto ‘service before self’ saying that when we do something, we should always think about how we can put service first and to the forefront and that is the motto we still operate by today.” The association has a very active community service subcommittee which works with both old-age homes and orphans — ILA members visit the elderly once a month to perform Indian dance and take traditional home-cooked food. The organisation also works closely with lowincome Indian expat workers making a monthly trip to selected labour camps taking either meals or dry rations, so the men can cook for themselves. Nivedita says: “We’re closely linked with the Indian Community Relief Fund, which operates through the Indian Embassy to help workers who are often living in very poor conditions so we try to help in any way we can whether it be goods, financial help, tickets home or whatever else we can do. We also offer ‘speakeasy’ classes teaching basic English to the
workers – sometimes, when they see us, they will run up to us and speak to us in English, it’s a big achievement for them and can make their lives so much better when they are able to communicate more freely.” One of the organisation’s major focuses and longterm achievements is the Sneha centre for children and young people with special needs. Set up in 1987 after four ILA members noticed there was no provision for expat special needs children, the centre opened with just four or five young people registered. Today that number has grown and Sneha is registered to offer 20 placements. It is staffed by around 25 specially-trained volunteers, so the children have one-to-one attention, and offers educational activities alongside fun arts and crafts. There is also speech therapy and things like hygiene and basic cooking aiming to improve eventual independence. Attendance at the centre is completely free and, for those in need, there is also help with medical expenses. Now the big push for the future is to move the centre to a bigger premises allowing Sneha to help more children and offer a garden area for outdoor activities and, of course, to arrange a celebration to mark the 60th anniversary. Nivedita says: “The Ministry of Social Development and the Indian Embassy are two big pillars in what we do as all of our work is carried out through voluntary fund-raising. For the future, it would be wonderful if we were able to expand Sneha so we could help even more children and we hope to make that happen soon.” www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Mr. Bisht & Rajesh
Rajendra & Mahendra
Gopa & GK Nair
Radha & Shubha
Thomas & Arun
Ramesh & Ram Singh
Digital India Week The Indian Embassy in Bahrain, in association with the Bahrain India Society, launched ‘Digital India’ week, at the Elite Resort & Spa. Nevin, Raj, HE Alok Kumar Sinha, Ram Singh & Thomas
Walter, Anand & Steven
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Mahesh, Kishore & Raj
August 2015 61
india independence LULU HYPERMARKET
Quality and Variety Juzer Rupawala, Lulu regional director, explains the secrets of the brand’s success. Please tell us a little about the history of the brand, when was Lulu first established and when did the first store open in Bahrain? Lulu Hypermarket is the flagship of the Lulu Group, established in 2000; prior to that the roots of the enterprise can be traced to the bold business leadership of our managing director Mr Yusuffali who entered the retail industry during the mid 1990s. The brand vision was laid down by him right at the beginning, he wanted to build a global retail brand delivering the finest shopping experience in terms of quality, pricing, variety and also as an immersive shopping experience that is multi-dimensional. We have taken that vision as our template and built a brand that is innovative and rooted in offering the best to our customers. Our international festivals, which celebrate the culture and products of different countries, our food shows and our promotions bind the community to us and give our customers an opportunity to experience a different dimension of shopping. In Bahrain, Lulu Hypermarket opened its first store in 2007. How many stores are there across the region? There are 117 stores across the MENA region — and four already in Bahrain.
Lulu is known for supplying a wide range of multi-national products. How does your stocking system operate? Lulu Hypermaket’s USP is the unmatched range of goods in our stores, we have a very efficient central buying unit with state-of-the-art purchasing, logistics and warehousing operations. For example, our 20,000sq/ft Birmingham (UK) logistics facility procures and exports food, non-food, chilled and frozen products from around the world. Lulu Hypermarket imports over 6,000 products from more than 1,000 well-known brands. We use our purchasing power to offer an unmatched price advantage to our customers. We are constantly adding to our portfolio of products and reviewing the popularity of products to bring customers what they need. That is why we proudly own our tag line “Where the world comes to shop”. There has been expansion in recent years in Bahrain, how many stores are there now in the Kingdom? Lulu Hypermarket’s first store was established in Manama’s Dana Mall in 2007; since then we have grown rapidly and by 2011, there were four Lulu stores in the Kingdom — one in Riffa, another in A’ali in Ramli Mall, which is also part of the Lulu Group, and the last in Hidd.
How do you ensure staff are kept abreast of developments in areas such as food hygiene at one end of the spectrum and computer sales at the other? Throughout our chain, our group invests intensively in HR, in training and in putting in place the necessary international certification to ensure a world-class operation run by a world-class team. This helps inspire our staff to keep abreast of the latest trends and practices in the retailing business. For example, in our fresh foods sections, team members are up to speed with the HAACCP certification that deals with industrial food hygiene. What other plans are there for the future such as promotions or introducing new departments to the stores? We have a rich tradition of innovative promotions that bring alive different themes and aspects of the brand promise and shopping experience. Our efforts extend beyond just picking up groceries or school supplies and transform shopping into a lifestyle experience. For instance, Lulu Hypermarket underscores its vibrant fashion department with interactive beauty and fashion shows, something Bahrain customers had never seen before. We shall continue to nurture a lively calendar of promotions to showcase the Lulu portfolio. Juzer Rupawala
62 August 2015
www.bahrainthismonth.com
AMBASSADOR STORES
The Sportsman’s Choice When Novak Djokovic selected Seiko as his watch partner, it was the new Astron GPS Solar collection that caught his eye. So, what could be more appropriate than to introduce a Novak Djokovic Limited Edition Astron? The new Seiko Astron GPS Solar Novak Djokovic Limited Edition is based on the new chronograph caliber that was introduced at Baselworld 2014 to great acclaim. This remarkable caliber, like all watches in the Astron collection, adjusts to every time zone on earth at the touch of a button. The 8X82 caliber offers two new functions – a six-hour chronograph and an electronic function in the crown for even easier adjustment of the secondary functions. The watch is 30 per cent smaller than the existing 7X caliber, this has been achieved by a new advance in Astron’s energy-saving technology allowing the watch to connect to the GPS network with a smaller antenna. The Novak Djokovic Limited Edition has unique appeal, thanks to the black ceramic bezel, the extra-strength silicon strap and the rose gold tone of the steel case. The case back carries Novak’s name and signature with a serial number engraved beneath. The Novak Djokovic Astron GPS Solar Chronograph is a limited edition of 2,500, offered in its own presentation box with a personal message from Novak Djokovic. The timepiece features GPS solar chronograph, GPS-controlled
www.bahrainthismonth.com
time and time zone adjustment, perpetual calendar correct to the year 2100, world time function (40 time zones), daylight saving time function and power save function. Its accuracy is +/-15 seconds per month (without receiving a time signal and at temperatures between 5°C – 35°C). The case, which has a diameter of 44.6mm and is 13.3mm thick, is stainless steel with rose gold coloured coating and ceramic bezel. The watch is water resistant to 10 Bar and magnetic resistant to 4,800 Nm. The Novak Djokovic Astron GPS Solar Chronograph is available in the kingdom at Ambassador Stores. Call 17 225-513.
August 2015 63
bystander
Yoga Day The Art of Living in co-ordination with the Embassy of India, Bahrain celebrated International Yoga Day. HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulaziz Al Khalifa, Undersecretary, Ministry of Education and Dr Mustafa Al Sayed, Royal Charity Organisation’s secretary general, were guests on the occasion. A demonstration in progress
Vijay & Vinod
Anil, Sreeni & Ram Singh
Boban & Babu
HE Shaikh Hisham Al Khalifa & Dr Mustafa
ILA Ghabga The Indian Ladies Association monthly meeting during Ramadan took the form of a ghabga at the Delmon International Hotel, where members enjoyed traditional entertainment, gifts and food. Kalpana, Nivedita, Parul, Sherin & Ranjana
Hema, Pratima, Chithra & Jayshree
Dr Sajni
64 August 2015
Bhavna
Anita
Sreevidya & Asha
Shamima
Vani
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Proud to Celebrate the Glory of INDIA with You
Lulu Centre Tel : 17 250 334 ♦ Juffair : 17 826 884 ♦ Muharraq : 17 343 266 Hamad Town : 17 412 563 ♦ Salmaniya : 17 252 624 ♦ Galali : 17 32 00 25 Segayya (Al Hayat Shopping Centre) : 17 00 30 61 ♦ MegaMart Express : 17 382 511
West Riffa Mall : 17 650 075 Saar : 17 225 818
india independence AL TAWFEEK
New Generation Takes the Reins
Sabitha and Pregith
After a quarter century in operation, this company is looking to the future with plans for clean and green technology.
66 August 2015
Al Tawfeek founder, Krishnan Nair Padmanabhan, was working as an independent sewage tanker driver back in 1980 when he saw the opportunity to start his business. He began contracting for sewage, moved on to skip hire and disposal of solid waste and the rest as they say ‘is history.’ Today, the company is one of the island’s biggest waste disposal operators and has also branched out into jet washing and cleaning. Now Mr Padmanabhan is taking a step back from the day-to-day running of the business leaving it in the capable hands of son Pregith and daughter Sabitha, who have exciting plans for the future. Pregith, an economics graduate, has been working in
the company for five years and Sabitha, with a medical and business management background, for three. She says: “One thing we are finding is that people still think of us as dad’s children. We are keen to show them that we do know what we are doing. Going forward we’re looking at improving the technology of the business. For example, UK and European standard equipment brought in may not be designed to work in our climate so we’re looking at improving our performance and efficiency with more suitable technology.” Pregith adds: “We’re also very aware of the need for more green technology. So far this is something that’s not very big in Bahrain, both environmental awareness and, of course, recycling but these are things we are working towards and areas in which we would like to see the government take a comprehensive lead. “At the moment there aren’t really the proper facilities to push recycling. Everything goes to landfill. But this is something that needs to be addressed and we would like to be part of the solution. “One area we are already working on is buying tyres from a company which maintains them and takes them back at the end of their useful life so that they can be re-treaded or recycled. That’s an initiative that we’re keen to support.” One of the company’s major areas of operation is the high pressure jetting division which employs a professionally trained crew to deal with cleaning and drainage blockages using high-pressure water hoses that can be used in various settings from ships and barges to industrial piping, hotels and cooling towers. Sabitha says: “This is an area in which we are the country’s prime operator and one where we are keen to expand by bringing in the latest equipment and tendering for areas we don’t currently cover.” Pregith adds: “And for the future we would like to look at tackling medical waste as we feel this could be done more efficiently than at present. We would also like to consult on the disposal of waste water as the current system frequently malfunctions — I personally know this leads to waste water being incorrectly disposed of and this is an area in which we could help find a solution.” The two seem to be very much on the same page, but, as brother and sister, how do they find working together? Sabitha explains: “I’m more involved in the administrative side, looking after the office and accounts, whereas Pregith is out in the field. And that’s the way we both like it — he doesn’t want to be dealing with finances and I certainly don’t want to be anywhere near sewage!” www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Kunal & Pauline
Anil and bird handler
ARG Ghabga Al Rashid Group hosted its annual Ghabga at Bushra by Bushido. Rachel, Sachin, Terence, Vikas & Pauline
Russel, Darshan, Irfan, Vijay & Kiran
Vijai & Inna
Nishtha & Liezyl
Juzer & Amy
Hamza & Ragu
Sree
Havier
Customer Care Counts Since 1980, Al Tawfeek has offered its clients an entire range of waste management solutions undertaken by a reliable and committed professional team who together provide the highest standards of service available within the Kingdom. The company uses state-of-the-art technologies in the waste and industrial cleaning industries to ensure a safe, clean and healthy environment. SEWAGE TANKERS & WAST MANAGEMENT
Skip containers are provided, emptied, disinfected and replaced promptly & efficiently round the clock. Collection, compacting and disposal of edible and associated waste happens in a hygenic and effective manner.
Collection & disposal of up to 4,000 US Gallons of accumulated sludge, sediments or oil waste
HYDRO JETTING & DRAINAGE CLEARANCE Drainage and blockage removals using high pressure jetting machines applicable to multi-storey buildings, marine & industrial piping & draining systems as well as pipelines & refineries,
www.bahrainthismonth.com
SKIP & COMPACTOR SERVICES
CLEANING & REMOVALS The entire range of specialized housekeeping & maintenance services including contractual cleaning of shops, malls, multistorey buildings, offices & factories (both internal & external) is offered from this division. A fleet of well-maintained and covered 6 wheeler pick-ups is at our clients’ disposal for dismantling, packing, forwarding unpacking & resetting equipment & furniture.
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Russel, Vikas, Irfan, Jayaram & Anil
Splash Opening Al Rashid Group opened a new store of its brand Splash, at the Al Hayat Mall, Segaya. Ribbon-cutting
Jayaram & Sachin
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Bina, Mario & Michel
Pauline & Nishtha
Haidee
Kiran & Ahmed
Anil & Matthew
Rafi, Shan & Harshad
Goutham & Vipin
www.bahrainthismonth.com
india independence LIC INTERNATIONAL
Delivering on Promises
With more than 26 years’ experience in the Bahrain market, LIC International continues to grow, building on the trust of its customers. LIC (International) BSC was established on the island in July 1989, in partnership with Intercol, with the aim of providing life insurance cover to the Indian diaspora of the GCC countries. With the backing of its Indian state-owned parent company, LIC of India, it has gone from strength to strength over the years serving not only non-resident Indians, but also many other nationalities too. In 2014 more than 11,000 new policies were underwritten with a premium income of USD185.45 million, total premium income was USD258.49 million and almost USD87 million was paid out in claims to policy holders. Ratings agency AM Best said of LIC: “The company has a strong and long track record of generating good profits. The diversified global portfolio has generated steady investment income and provides a strong margin in excess of guaranteed payment.” The company’s excellence has been recognised with a number of awards including the Middle East Investment Forum award 2012, from the Central Bank of Bahrain, for its innovative products and customer service. CEO and MD, Rajesh Kandwal, says: “The company has always lived up to the trust of its customers by way of delivery on its promises by product
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Rajesh Kandwal
innovation and excellent customer service. What sets us apart from other brands is unique product range catering to the specific needs of our ‘niche’ market of NRIs. Our short-term products with competitive return also attract other nationalities.” Call 17 210-610.
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STATE BANK OF INDIA
Growing Through Trust
A bank with history that’s still expanding today. The State Bank of India (SBI), which is a Fortune 500 company and India’s largest bank, has been operating in Bahrain for almost 40 years having opened its wholesale banking branch on the island in 1977. In 2007 it opened its retail branch in Manama and since then it has grown swiftly in terms of business, profit and customer numbers offering a wide range of products and services including savings and current accounts, fixed deposits, recurring deposits, overdrafts, term loans, letters of credit, bank guarantees, auto and personal loans, Internet banking, safe custody lockers and ATMs. Services are available to both corporate and individual clients of all nationalities and SBI also provides a range of options for non-resident Indians such as assistance in opening non-resident rupee accounts in India, applying for home loans in India and investments with the SBI mutual fund. The bank has expanded from one retail branch in the Kingdom to three in the past five years and, through its trade finance services, it has promoted growth in trade between India and Bahrain enabling the island’s business people to establish new connections for commerce with the sub-continent. With a history spanning more than 200 years the State Bank of India stands for trust and its excellent and professional standards of customer service has seen business with both the Indian community and those of other nationalities growing steadily. Call 17 548-033. 70 August 2015
www.bahrainthismonth.com
YELLOW CHILLI
Celebrating Independence This fine-dining venue offers 69 original Indian dishes to mark 69 years of Indian independence.
The-Yellow-Chilli advert-125mm height x
The Yellow Chilli is the Indian fine-dining restaurant by world famous chef Sanjeev Kapoor who stars in the TV show Khana Khazana, which is the longest running show of its kind in Asia. It broadcasts in 120 countries and, in 2010, it had more than 500 million viewers. The restaurant, in Seef Mall, is proud to celebrate the 69th year of Indian independence throughout the month of August. While customers can expect lots of fun, games and surprises on August 15, they can also relish the taste of 69-plus original Indian dishes coming from the varied 29 states of India. Watch out for the special tri-colour desserts! Enjoy the best dum biryanis, naan, curries, chaat, desserts and a lot more at The Yellow Chill, Seef Mall. A sumptuous buffet is laid out every day for lunch and from Thursday to Saturday for dinner, width 191mm.pdf 1 1:22:24 PM while the extensive Ă 7/22/2015 la carte menu is available
at all times, Yellow Chilli also undertakes party orders, outdoor catering and deliveries. Call 17 580-480/17 002-980.
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THE GULF HOTEL
Time for Tiffin Just months after launching, this eatery has been voted in Bahrain’s top five restaurants on Trip Advisor and is now expanding its menu to offer a traditional Indian tiffin.
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In India, tiffins — the tin boxes in which food is carried — are an essential part of everyday life, an essential way to enjoy a homemade lunch at the work place. There are an estimated 5,000 tiffin carriers in Mumbai, locally known as Dabbawallahs or Tiffinwallahs, who use a complex system to get thousands of tiffins to their destinations. Here in Bahrain, workers carrying their tiffin boxes as they head out to toil each morning are a common sight. The traditional tiffin is made out of stainless steel and is usually round. It can come in a number of sizes, from the super small, one-tier tiffins, which are useful for snacks, to the gigantic, five- or even six-tier tiffins, which are more suited to big picnics for the family. Now Rasoi by Vineet, the Gulf Hotel’s hugely popular Indian eatery, which is overseen by Michelin-starred celebrity chef, Vineet Bhatia, has introduced its own tiffin lunch giving diners the chance to try this typically Indian experience in fine dining style. Rasoi tiffin comes in a custom-made three-tier box and each compartment is filled with the tasty delicacies of meat, dal and rice, accompanied by
vegetables, raita and a dessert to complete the meal. Add a kebab platter and you have a delicious and filling meal. The tiffin menu is served from Sunday to Thursday from noon to 2.45pm and is different each day featuring items such as murg or kofta chettinad, Hyderabadi baingan, lamb Madrasi, Amma’s vegetable ishtew, murg makhanwala, paneer makhni, dal tadka, aloo pakora, batata vada, mustard-curry leaf raita, kachumber, coriander naan and corn pulao. For dessert you can expect to sample the likes of gooey choco cup, white chocolate ice cream, mango cheesecake, fresh mango, star anise crumble, gulabjamun and blueberry basundi with cardamom foam. The tiffin lunch, including dessert, costs BD11 and add the kebab platter, which comes in a huge range of varieties from meat and chicken to fish, cooked in some of Rasoi’s delectable signature spices, at just BD14. Call 17 746-461. www.bahrainthismonth.com
india independence LITTLE CHEF RESTAURANT
The Complete Package
This popular Budaiya restaurant has undergone a dramatic revamp in a bid to woo diners.
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The popular Wholesale Restaurant has undergone a transformation and is now called Little Chef. A part of Lanterns Group, it is a great place to dine in and offers take away, delivery and catering services as well. Little Chef offers multiple cuisines such as Indian, Pan Asian, Middle Eastern and Italian. The 156-itemstrong menu is an ultimate palate pleaser. This makes the restaurant particularly popular with private parties, where you can offer an eclectic variety of dishes without having to order from different restaurants. In the past, this popular eatery was mostly known for its Indian preparations but the new menu includes
a host of dishes from Japanese sushi to Thai curries and even Middle Eastern shawarma. A separate space has been allocated right next to the eatery offering authentic Turkish grills and shawarma along with Turkish pizza and fresh breads. “We take pride in the food we serve and our new kitchen team is here to deliver the finest taste across all cuisines,” says Nandan Prasad, the restaurant manager. “Our Turkish chefs specialise in charcoal grill shawarma making us the first on Budaiya Road to offer this unique flavour. They also have expertise in baking fresh Turkish pide or pastries and pizzas in our clay oven.” The restaurant has recently been given a facelift following an intensive refurbishment. With new chefs on board, a separate menu has been launched for outdoor catering ranging from intimate parties to lavish functions. This venue prides itself on using the freshest local ingredients to ensure the best taste and responsible sourcing. “People love hosting parties in their houses, especially in this part of the island. The kind of food variety and service we offer, makes us the most popular choice for catering,” Nandan adds. “As the summer reaches its end and temperatures drop, we are hoping for a considerable increase in the business of our catering division.” The restaurant’s motto is to serve quality food that speaks for itself; a sentiment well illustrated by Little Chef’s tagline “Where Food Talks”. 17 595-950 and 36 767-886 (for outdoor catering).
www.bahrainthismonth.com
LITTLE Restaurant
Chef
Where Food Talks Asian Kitchen and Turkish Grill
LITTLE Restaurant
Chef
New Menu Something for everyone! Pan Asian, Japanese, Sushi, Thai, Indian, Chinese and Budaiya’s latest Turkish Grill! Join us every Thursday and Friday for our lunch and dinner Buffet. Sun-Wed: 12pm-12pm Thurs-Sat: 12pm-1am Budaiya Road, Tel: 17595950/ 17595980 Little Chef Restaurant
littlechefbahrain
india independence ATIRAM PREMIER HOTEL
Get the Party Started Juffair’s newest hotel just got even better with the launch of a rocking, high-end nightclub. The recently launched Atiram Premier Hotel (pictured), offers five-star luxury with four-star value in its 105 well-appointed rooms and suites. Now this gorgeous property is home to the much anticipated new nightlife venue, Cavallo Club, which opened its doors on July 30 with a grand two-day launch party. With a Western theme and wood finish, there are plenty of different areas in the club to spend time with friends and mingle during the course of the evening. Whether you’re in the mood to hit the dance floor, relax at one of the VIP tables or just fancy a casual drink at the bar, Cavallo fits the bill. And if your appetite kicks in during the night, the club offers a delicious menu from starters and salads to main course cuisine. From funky lighting, to ensure the party atmosphere, to a mechanical bull for the adventurous, Cavallo Club really knows how to get the party started.
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The line-up for the opening month is truly phenomenal boasting DJ Supreme La Rock from the USA and resident DJ Jono, all the way from South Africa, mixing and switching it up from house and dance to top 40 tunes, R&B and hip hop. Guest DJs for the first month include DJ Swing, DJ Windy City, DJ Neil and DJ Peekaboo as well as special guest DJ Craig from the UK and a group of dancers from Scotland. Cavallo Club is the place to be! Call Warren Leonard 34 091-533 or Megan Rudman 34 187-516.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
india independence
TRAVEL
INDIA Off the Beaten Track When we think of India, most non-Indians think of the Taj Mahal, the Golden Temple of Amritsar or the Amber Fort and Palace at Jaipur, but India is a land of huge contrasts and hidden places and there is much to be found away from the regular tourist trail. The Andaman Islands The Andaman Islands form an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal between India, to the west, and Myanmar, to the north and east. Most are part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Union Territory of India, while a small number in the north of the archipelago, including the Coco Islands, belong to Myanmar. Almost 1,400km from the Indian mainland and actually much closer to both Indonesia and Myanmar, the islands are home to the only known paleolithic people, the Sentinelese, who have had no contact with any other humans — in fact the tribal areas are still out of bounds to tourists.
Known mainly for their legendary beaches, these islands are also popular for their world-class diving and their far-flung location makes them an ideal place to get away from it all. If you can tear yourself away from those famous beaches long enough, pay a visit to Ross Island, a city of Victorian English ruins now being reclaimed by the jungle, and don’t miss the Anthropological Museum to learn all about the fascinating indigenous tribes.
The Kerala Backwaters Unique to this region, the backwaters in Kerala is a network of 1,500 km of canals, both manmade and natural, 38 rivers and five big lakes extending from one end of Kerala to the other. Backwaters is one of the major tourism products of Kerala, but the idea of hiring a houseboat still seems to come as new to many. The backwaters can be explored by hiring a boat for one or several days. If you go for more than a day, the boat usually comes with a navigator and a cook, which provide you with various facilities when exploring the backwaters leaving you to enjoy the slowly passing scenery from a very different viewpoint. 78 August 2015
Andaman Islands
Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh See big cats and plenty of other wildlife at this reserve which was created in 1981 but absent from guidebooks. The rugged and heavily forested national park is home to a diverse range of species including tiger, leopard, sambar, chital, Indian muntjac, nilgai, four-horned antelope, chinkara, gaur, wild boar, wild dog, bear, black buck, fox, porcupine, flying squirrel, mouse deer, Indian giant squirrel and there are plans to trap and relocate a group of endangered Bengal tigers from another park. There are a number of hotels and lodges located in and around the national park to cater for all budgets. It’s best to take a Jeep tour to make sure you experience the wildlife from safety.
Kerala
aters
Backw
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Tel. 17271122, 17253177 email: showroom@yateemac.net
summer coolers
As temperatures climb, stay fresh and frosty with a selection of smooth summer coolers
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 81
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Duniya & Apple
Ameer,x Ahmed & Duniya
Ali
Wedo
McDonald’s Ghabga McDonald’s hosted an exclusive launch of the Your Right To Know platform, for members of the press. Ahmed & Abdulla
Rhea, Wulfran & Jess
Mazen, Ahmed & Bader
Marie, Benjin & Mitch
Hassan, Fahad & Mohammed
Nouran & Heba
Hassan & Albert
Ranin Iftar A VIP launch event for Ranin’s Iftar was hosted at Trader Vic’s restaurant. Helmut & Sylvain
Patrice, Angelo & Rosvelt
Susan & Simone
Mohammed & Awais
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Marion, Tracy & Charles
Kashaf, Mariana, Kaz & Noor
Reychel, Kim & Metos
Ali & Christina
Sana & Umair
Alistair & Kirsty
Graham & Andrew
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summer coolers COSTA COFFEE
The Home of Irresistible Coffee London’s favourite coffee shop* welcomes you to its newest outlet in Bahrain, which boasts a stylish ambience and a great cup of coffee. Costa Coffee has launched a new store look at City Centre Bahrain, presenting a whole new customer experience. The new ‘metro’ store is distinguished by its modern design and fresh look. The space gives off an urban feel with its trendy yet comfortable furniture and cosy corners. Costa Coffee’s Metro store at City Centre Bahrain offers both relaxed seating for meetings and catching up with friends as well as express areas, meeting different customers’ needs. Although it has a modern and unique feel to it — thanks to exposed brickwork as well as glass and stone elements — coffee remains at the heart of the design. A team of professional baristas are behind the counter to prepare and serve your choice of handcrafted coffee hot or shaken with ice, all created by using Costa’s famous Mocha Italia coffee blend. Now you can also create your own cupful of indulgence. Costa has launched the all-new Frostino- the indulgent, cool and creamy iced blended drink you can design to fit your mood, with a range of delicious toppings and extras. *Source: In an independent survey of 5,000 people published in December 2014 by Allegra Strategies, 50 per cent of Londoners voted Costa their favourite coffee shop brand. Call 17 179-787.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
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Euro Motors Ghabga Euro Motors hosted a media Ghabga at The Glow Ramadan Lounge by Jaguar Land Rover, at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa.
Simon & Mark
Jatinder, Christina & Shahina
Seenan & Jojo
Andrew, Angie & Arnie
Soufiane, Nawaf, George, Alex & Christian
Kawthar & Ahsan
BMW Ghabga
Layla, Hanna & Tulin
BMW held a media Ghabga at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Resort & Spa’s Ramadan tent, Al Khayma.
Hussain, David & Charlie
Ferrari Ghabga
Ted, Adel & Shehab
Euro Motos and Ferrari held a Ghabga at Ranin, Trader Vic’s.
Mariyana, Shady, Safya, Sergio & Nawaf
JLR Unveiling Nawaf & Mazen
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Basma, Lubna & Hera
Salman Al Khalifa, Rashid & Rashid Al Zayani
Zainab & Mariyana
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) hosted a Ghabga at the Glow – Ramadan Lounge by JLR to unveil the new Jaguar XE. Christian & Valentina
Simon, Paul & Sherif
Jamie, Nicolas & Erica
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bystander
Pre-school Celebrations The Budaiya Pre-School held a doublecelebration of its 20th anniversary and students’ graduation.
The graduating batch with their teachers
Noria & Khalil
Fatema, Haitham & Daniel
Art Rotana Iftar
Farooq & Zaid
Theresa & Sheila
Kinga & Alex
Faisal & Ahmed
Danah, Sarah & Ichita
Ali, Eyad & Luqman
Patrice & Joe
Art Rotana held an Iftar for members of the press and invited guests at Choices restaurant. Michael, Ali, Mac & Hani
G4s Campaign Jameel & Mohammed Nadia
Tala & Rasha
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Abdulla
As part of its corporate social responsibility, G4s hosted an activity day at the RIA Institute for children with special needs. The G4s team with the kids
Rola
Ghazi & Marwan
Jeevani & Randa
Mehran & Othman
Puran & Abdul Rahman
Sunil
www.bahrainthismonth.com
MOTORING
LIFE IN THE FAST LANE CHARLIE HOLDING However you pronounce it, Porsche is a brand with a reputation for innovation – and it really shows in this model.
D
ie-hard enthusiasts may throw their toys out of the pram at the mere mention of an electric engine in a Porsche, but as Bob Dylan said: “The Times They Are a Changin.” Some people are opposed to change and others embrace it with open arms, it doesn’t matter which category you fall under … everything changes eventually. Let’s start with the basics here; yes, it’s bigger than a 911. No, it’s not as big as the Cayenne. Does the fact that it’s partly electric affect the drive? A little. I’ll gladly admit that one of my favourite things about starting a Porsche is the glorious roar of the engine. Imagine my surprise when I turned the ignition of the Panamera S E-Hybrid and heard nothing, absolutely nothing. Usually, the sound of the engine is an indicator of the power at your disposal, but not this time. The key doesn’t start the 3-litre V6 petrol engine – it www.bahrainthismonth.com
turns on the electric. Trust me, you’ll survive the initial disappointment and soon forget it. As with most Porsche models, this one has a selection of driving modes that can be used to select the level of performance you desire. Comfort mode is, comfortable (obviously), Sport mode gives a more dynamic drive and Sport Plus essentially kicks in the petrol engine with all its might. The Panamera is a relatively large model and has a fair amount of weight behind it, too. However, when you put your foot down you forget you’re driving a vehicle of this size and suddenly remember why it dons the iconic badge. The 8-speed PDK gearbox shifts so smoothly and quickly, to be honest, there is very little need to ever switch to manual mode. If you do decide to dabble, you have the option of using the steering wheel mounted controls or the traditional gearstick.
ALSO THIS MONTH: 91 ROYAL APPOINTMENT 92 NEWS & LAUNCHES
In terms of drivability, this Panamera is on par with some sports cars I’ve driven over the years. The ride is smooth and stable with impressive handling capabilities and despite its size, it does a good job around most corners. Inside is just as impressive. Leather, Alcantara and chrome dominate the cabin, giving it the sophisticated ambiance that drivers have come to expect from this iconic marque. There is also plenty of legroom and headroom in the back – a far cry from the rear “seats” in other models. One of my favourite features is that the spoiler pops up to say hello when you reach 120kmph and folds neatly away when you drop down to 80kmph. However, there is also a button, which raises it whenever you feel like peacocking. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly ride with enough oomph to keep things interesting, this could be the model you’ve been waiting for. Call Porsche Centre Bahrain on 17 459-911 or visit www.porschebahrain.com. August 2015 87
motoring AL HADDAD MOTORS
Promotion Continues A range of popular models are still available at competitive prices from this premium marque. Al Haddad Motors, Bahrain’s Mercedes-Benz dealer, is continuing its Ramadan promotion until the end of the month with special offers on its 250 line, which includes the GLK 250, GLA 250, CLA 250 and A 250 for only BD250 per month for a period of 84 months. Customers will receive additional benefits including free registration and one-year’s insurance. Clients need only pay a BD250 down payment in order to drive home in a new car. Customers will also be eligible for three years of the silver service package which covers all scheduled services, labour, oil, fluids and filters for a period of either three years or 60,000km. Graeme Newport, Al Haddad general manager, says: “We want to give customers a longer window in which to enjoy great deals on MercedesBenz vehicles. It’s such a pleasure to see customers’ delighted expressions when they realise they don’t have to squeeze everything in during Ramadan. We hope our customers see this as our Eid gift to them.” The GLA and GLK models are ideal for families looking for an SUV fit for making memories. The CLA is the best choice for those who are looking for a seductive sedan. The A 250 is a trendsetter when it comes to the world of compact cars, its makers say. Call 17 785-454 or visit www.mercedesbenzme.com.
Turkish Ghabgha
The Turkish Cultural and Social Society held a Ghabgha party at the Golden Tulip. The dinner was attended by HE Hatun Demirer, Turkish Ambassador. Guests at the event
Mohammed, HE Hatun Demirer & Sebahat
Anastasia & Oksana
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Sva, Yunus, Sebahat & Volken
Sertan & Olga
Aler & Tariq
Ala, Manar & Sebahat
Abdulaziz
Nilgun, Hulya & Ece
www.bahrainthismonth.com
It’s OK to stare. The new Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. With new futuristic MULTIBEAM LED headlamps and “diamond grille”, perfectly handcrafted details and visionary technology, this seductive four-door coupé steals the spotlight from every angle. MercedesBenzBahrain MercedesBenzBAH AlHaddadMotors
Al Haddad Motors P.O. Box 242, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973) 17785454, marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com
G low S U N S E T S
O F
B A H R A I N
“An inspirational photographic book which reveals the spectacular sunsets within the Kingdom of Bahrain. Containing over 250 images, this unique book not only demonstrates the immense beauty of the country’s sunsets, but also the diverse leisure lifestyle that accompanies them, and the spirit of its people”.
On sale in all major bookstores soon.
A spectacular new photographic book
by Andrew Weaver
motoring
EURO MOTORS
Royal Appointment One of the Kingdom’s leading dealerships has completed the handover of six sophisticated motorcycles to the Ministry of Interior for the personal escort of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister.
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Euro Motors, Bahrain’s BMW Group importer, presented the BMW K 1600 GT models, which have been revamped for 2015. Paul Yates, general manager of Euro Motors, says: “We are honoured to be chosen to have our motorcycles to be part of the Crown Prince’s escort; there isn’t a better model to best represent the BMW Motorrad brand and be part of the escort. The luxury touring bike has been updated this year and we are sure will be ready for its day-to-day duties.” One of the best-selling models in Bahrain, the BMW K 1600 GT comes with a supreme in-line 6-cylinder engine with a high level of pulling power. Engine output is 160bhp at 7,750rpm and a maximum torque of 175Nm at 5,250rpm. The 2015 model boasts a number of upgrades, including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) as standard for increased safety when accelerating. The new model can also be fitted with the Motorrad Keyless Ride System. The new system enables the steering to lock as well as the fuel tank and other storage compartments in the motorcycle without the use of the key. Additionally, the BMW K 1600 GT can be started with the touch of a button, without inserting the key. Other new equipment features include a daytime riding light and Hill Start Control. The K 1600 GT is now also fitted with the instrument panel of the K 1600 GTL Exclusive, featuring new scales and high-end chrome surfaces. August 2015 91
motoringnews&launches
Road Safety Research To Reduce Accidents Jaguar Land Rover has revealed a range of new road safety technology research projects that are being developed to reduce the number of accidents caused by drivers who are stressed, distracted and not concentrating on the road ahead. The Jaguar Land Rover ‘Sixth Sense’ research project utilises advanced technology from sports, medicine and aerospace, to monitor the driver’s heart rate, respiration and levels of brain activity to identify driver stress, fatigue and lack of concentration. The UK-based team is also looking at innovations that would reduce the amount of time the driver’s eyes are off the road whilst driving, and how to communicate with the driver via pulses and vibrations through the accelerator pedal.
Going the Distance The future of mobility is ready to hit the road and keep going.
Partnership Announced A leading social club has joined forces with one of Bahrain’s biggest dealerships. Motorcity, the distributor of Volvo, Subaru and Citroen in the Kingdom, has tied up with the British Club in an official partnership. As part of this association, the British club received two vehicles from Motorcity; a Volvo S60 sedan and Citroen Berlingo. British Club members will be able to benefit from exclusive offers and discounts on Motorcity brands, which will be communicated within the club’s venues and outlets regularly. David Endall, general manager of the British Club, says: “We are very pleased to have this association with Motorcity, the distributor of many premium brands. Our members can now benefit from the exclusive offers on Motorcity brands and services.”
Grown-Up And Cool The small car with a big personality is set to undergo an impressive revamp. The soon to be available MINI Clubman is set to be the biggest model yet, in terms of overall dimensions, and with it come big expectations. Arriving in the Middle East in 2016, the third generation has grown both inside 92 August 2015
The new Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle will offer an EPA-estimated 67 miles per gallon when it hits the US this month. Toyota North America CEO Jim Lentz announced the EPA-estimated performance figures at the Aspen Ideas Festival in Aspen, Colorado. Mirai is the only zero emission electric vehicle on the market that tops the 300 mile range milestone. “Toyota realised in the early 90s that electrification was key to the future of the automobile,” says Lentz. “Just as the Prius introduced hybrid-electric vehicles to millions of customers nearly 20 years ago, the Mirai is now poised to usher in a new era of efficient, hydrogen transportation.” The world’s first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, the Toyota Mirai is a fourdoor, mid-size sedan with performance that competes with traditional internal combustion engines – but uses no gasoline.
and out while carving out a new vehicle class for MINI. Even in the new premiumcompact segment it is consciously designed as the “smallest large car”, its makers say. Just over 32cm longer and around 12cm wider than its predecessor, the new model provides plenty of space to meet the demands of youthful, urban mobility. It also offers plenty of storage space. www.bahrainthismonth.com
downtime gadgets LULU HYPERMARKET
Tech Update
Huawei P8lite
Get involved with Lulu Hypermarket’s great gadget offerings this month.
Samsung Galaxy S6 edge 32GB
LG G4
Android OS v5.02, Octa-core 1.2GHz; MicroSD up to 128GB, 2GB Ram, 13MP camera, 5MP secondary; wi-fi hotspot, Bluetooth, NFC
Samsung 55” 3D Smart UHD TV UA55JU7000K Ultra clear pro panel, wide colour enhancer, UHD upscaling, wi-fi direct, HDMI x4, USBx3
Android OS, Quad core 1.5GHz, 3GB Ram, 16MP camera, wi-fi hotspot, GPS, NFC
Samsung 50” Smart LED TV UA50J5500 Full HD, Quad core prossesor , 60Hz clear motion rate, built-in wi-fi, wide colour enhancer, micro dimming pro, Bluetooth, screen mirroring , HDMI x3, USB x2
Asus Notebook X554LA-XX1224HCi3 Intel core i3, (5th generation), 15.6” HD screen, 4GB Ram, 500GB HDD, shared graphics, DVD writer, Windows 8.1
Sony PS4 Console 1TB CUH 1116B Lulu Hypermarket can be found at Dana Mall, Hidd, Ramli Mall and East Riffa www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 93
gadgets These sensational summer gadgets are designed to make your life easier as temperatures climb.
Wild Planet’s Aqua Light Mask The Aqua Light Mask from Wild Planet features built-in dual lights to see underwater at night. It’s also waterproof down to 35 feet and the adjustable straps will fit adults and children alike.
Cygnett GoStick Featuring a universal yet secure L-shaped cradle for your smartphone or GoPro camera, the GoStick lets you comfortably trigger your shutter button with the remote control that neatly attaches to the stick, or hide it in your hand for professional style shots. The collapsible tripod enables hands-free photos any time, any place.
Grill-Cleaning Robot One of the most annoying summer chores is cleaning the grill after a barbecue. Sometimes it seems like no matter what type of brush you use, the clean-up takes more elbow grease and time than you want to devote. But what if you could get a robot to do it? The Grillbot is a charming, automatic grill-cleaner that does a better job in half the time.
94 August 2015
iGrill 2 Bluetooth BBQ Thermometer There’s no more need for old-fashioned pop-up thermometers in your grilled chops, or worse, guessing when your meat is done (and hoping it’s not overcooked). The iGrill 2 comes complete with all the bells and whistles: multiple prongs for gauging different meat temperatures at once and Bluetooth smartphone compatibility for checking on your steaks from across the yard.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Portable Icemaker One of the most tiresome chores associated with outdoor parties is the ice run: someone has to run to the store to buy bags of ice, which only end up melting in the summer heat. This portable icemaker eliminates that frustration, makes ice cubes in two sizes and creates a batch in just six minutes.
Outdoor Pizza Oven Instead of scratching your head trying to balance the barbecue outside and the pizzas in your standard kitchen oven inside, check out this portable outdoor pizza oven. It cooks pizzas in 15 minutes or less and allows you to take a break from hamburgers and hot dogs.
Popdrive Not only does the Popdrive store up to 1GB of your important data and music, it also opens drinks! Attach it to a belt buckle or your car keys, and you’ll never go thirsty during summer parties.
Solar Beach Tote A solar-powered bag to charge your gadgets will definitely come in handy no matter where you are under the sun. The Solar Beach Tote features a high-tech flexible solar panel that generates 6.3 watts of power to charge a mobile phone, MP3 player, digital camera or any other small electronic device on the go.
Insect Zapper Much more convenient than covering yourself in mosquito spray and lighting citronella candles, this sleek-looking, mushroom-shaped insect zapper will do the trick. It glows like a nightlight, but is less noisy than the traditional humming insect lights.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
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music
Muse - Drones What’s the story?
Drones is the seventh studio album by England’s biggest rock band, Muse. Drones is a concept album following the protagonist’s journey from abandonment to indoctrination as a ‘human drone’ and eventual defection. Muse aimed to return to the simpler guitar-bass-drums rock sound of their earlier albums after experimenting with orchestral and electronic music in their more recent catalogue.
Worth a listen?
The heavy and catchy riffs, coupled with Queenesque operatic bombast are still there, and lead singer Matt Bellamy’s falsetto vocals still impress, but the lyrical content is dire. Subtlety is not the band’s forte, and yet another album which screams of government conspiracy theories and mind control is just tiring. After mostly ditching the keyboards and the cellos, it would have been nice to see a return to singing about space and science fiction, or anything remotely different. Muse continue to buy into their own hype and ridiculous posturing. If the band are to return to their previous heights, they need a change in direction.
Verdict: Average release from a band slowly losing their way. Shorts
Free Weezy Album – Lil Wayne The eleventh album by the American rapper is a reinvention for the artist. With a focus on himself by ditching high-profile collaborations and the auto-tuned chorus hooks, Free Weezy Album is his best album in a while. With strong stream-of-consciousness lyricism that seems to come from the heart rather than head, and oddly refreshing conceptual themes that made him so worthwhile, Wayne sounds like he finally gets it.
96 August 2015
Dark Before Dawn – Breaking Benjamin The band’s fifth album, the first since 2009 and featuring almost an entirely new lineup, is more of the same. But in this case it’s a good thing. As smartly-produced, largely inoffensive blasts of generic hard rock go, you could do a lot worse than this quintet. Long-time fans will be pleased to know that despite the changes, the band still retains their typical late nineties/early noughties post-grunge sound, but the riffs seem to have more meat on the bone and lead singer Benjamin Burnley’s rejuvenated enthusiasm shines through.
E.MO.TION. – Carly Rae Jepsen The third album from “that woman who sang Call Me Maybe” is another batch of ridiculously catchy pop songs that have no artistic substance but are bound to get teenage girls (and guys) bopping up and down on the dancefloors around the world. Credit to Jepsen; she sure has a knack for penning a brilliantly likeable (or hateable) ballad, and there’s something refreshing about a bunch of feel-good ballads that don’t take themselves too seriously. But unless you are the type who likes lavish gratings of cheese on your food, this record will become unbearable after a few listens.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
games
Games review Game: Batman: Arkham Knight Rating:****
What is it?
The final chapter in the Arkham trilogy follows batman as he confronts the Scarecrow, who has launched an attack on Gotham City. With help from the mysterious Arkham Knight and a host of classic batman villains, this leads to a plot to finally kill the Dark Knight. The game is presented from a third-person perspective with a primary focus on Batman’s combat and stealth abilities, detective skills, and gadgets that can be used in both extreme combat and exploration.
Graphics:
Verdict:
A feast of heroes and villains return to send the series off in style.
Gameplay:
The game expands Batman’s arsenal of gadgets and combat attacks and offers a more open world structure, allowing the player to complete side missions away from the primary storyline. The combat is as fluid and intuitive as always, and, for the first time, the game introduces the Batmobile as a playable vehicle which can be used for transportation or combat.
LEGO Jurassic World
Following the epic storylines of all four Jurassic Park movies, LEGO Jurassic World is the first videogame where players will be able to relive and experience all four Jurassic films … in the form of LEGO! Play either alone or with a friend in a family-friendly experience, which features puzzle-solving and itemcollecting with a cast of over 100 characters, each with unique abilities.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
The visuals are astonishingly good, especially the detail in character models and textures. Gotham City looks incredible with its neonheavy lighting, and the dazzling rain effects (which are pretty much a constant, this is a dark and gloomy game) are stunning and truly next generation. Despite the sheer amount of action on-screen and fights involving a huge gang of baddies, the frame rate very rarely dips or lags at all.
F1 2015
The official video game of the 2015 FIA Formula One World Championship, F1 2015 is set to take gamers closer to the real-world experience of racing. In addition to spectacular visual fidelity, F1 2015 offers a significant step forward in the physics-based handling model of the game, which offers enhancements and additions in over 20 areas including engine and transmission, aerodynamics, fuel tank, force feedback, suspension and most notably a brand new tyre physics model.
PayDay 2: Crimewave Edition
The second entry in the thriller/heist series, PayDay 2 offers a huge range of dynamic contracts and players are free to choose anything from small-time convenience store hits or kidnappings, to major league cybercrime or emptying out major bank vaults. Up to four friends cooperate on the hits and as the crew progresses the jobs become bigger, better and more rewarding.
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bystander
websites
VERDICT:
Crystal Palace Iftar Crystal Palace Hotel hosted its pre-launch Ramadan Iftar for management and staff. Shiva, Sujit, Sudhish, Boban & Thomas
Site: https://filethis.com/ Rating:****
Extremely handy service which will keep important documents in one place.
What is it?
FileThis is a new web-based service that automatically downloads your e-statements into your PC or cloud storage. It covers a wide spectrum of household paper filing, such as bank statements, phone bills, tax documents, mortgage statements, credit card statements, insurance policies and benefits, online shopping accounts, utilities and more.
The Good
FileThis encrypts your login information the moment you enter it. Once you’re on its servers, everything is encrypted to the highest standard so no one can decode your content, even if hackers were to somehow break in. The few employees who manage the encryption process undergo the same rigorous security measures used in banks, including background checks.
Hotel Staff
The Bad
The list of covered institutions is finite. FileThis has to write code to connect to each institution, and though it plans to continue adding new ones, those with the largest demand take precedence. Therefore, it lacks regional institutions like health insurers or local utilities.
RCSI Graduation
http://10minutemail.com/10MinuteMail/index.html
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain held a medical conferring ceremony for its graduating doctors and nurses, under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. The event was attended by HE Sadiq AlShehabi, Health Minister.
10 Minute Mail sets you up with a self-destructing email address that expires in 10 minutes. Your temporary inbox works just like regular email, allowing you to forward and respond to messages, but with utmost privacy and absolutely no spam to clog up your inbox. You can add extra time if 10 minutes isn’t quite long enough.
HE Sadiq Al Shehabi, second from left, with RCSI staff
Aamir & Abdulla Professor Sameer Otoom presents an award
Sarah, Sarah, Sarah & Sarah
98 August 2015
Huda, Sarah & Kareem
http://www.any.do/ An extremely useful task manager for smartphones, and the website is especially useful when you need a big-picture view of your plans. With its gridbased, drag-and-drop layout, you can easily see everything in Any.do’s four distinct categories: Today, Tomorrow, Upcoming and Someday. www.bahrainthismonth.com
apps
Essential Apps BTM brings you the low-down on the latest and greatest apps on the market
What is it?
A weather app that packs a ton of information, such as the current conditions, temperature (and whether it’s rising or falling), wind speed and direction, humidity, barometric pressure and visibility. A variety of charts and a fully animated weather globe that shows the severity of various weather conditions. It also includes a brief sentence to let you know what type of weather will be coming within the next hour. A few simple clicks will take you to any city in the world.
The Good:
It’s a beautiful app, stunningly designed and one that fits in perfectly with the design aesthetics of iOS. Everything about the app works smoothly and intuitively, and the 3D-globe radar map is a stunning way to convey weather information.
The Bad:
App: Dark Skies Rating:****
Verdict: Very well designed and easy to use App: Google Wallet This is a mobile payment system that allows you to control your money in a variety of ways. You can pay for goods and services – like YouTube video rentals – and send money directly to an individual (if you have their email address and Google Wallet account details). The app also uses your location to show you nearby loyalty programmes, stores that accept your gift cards, and more. All transactions are recorded for future reference. www.bahrainthismonth.com
It’s a tough ask to pay for a weather app when there’s already one built-in to iPhone. There’s also a limitation on forecast data and it fails to provide little details further than a few hours ahead; this is very much a ‘here and now’ weather app.
App: Runmeter
Rich with stats and highly customisable, Runmeter is one of the most comprehensive iPhone running apps around. It tracks almost everything about your outdoor workouts, from pace and distance to how many miles you run over a selected period of time. It also provides health and wellness information such as calorie burning estimates and workout recommendations. August 2015 99
movies
bystander
Media Iftar The Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel held an Iftar for members of the press. Gilles, David & Priya
VERDICT:
Subhash
Film: Jurassic World Rating: ****
Classic series returns with a triumph.
Directed by: Colin Trevorrow Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio
The Plot:
The film picks up 22 years after the events of Jurassic Park, and Isla Nublar is finally home to a fully functioning theme park as per John Hammond’s original dream. With attendances starting to dwindle, geneticists create a giant hybrid dinosaur known as Indominus Rex to satisfy the lust for something new and be the park’s latest star attraction. Inevitably, the creature ends up going on a deadly rampage, so it’s up to velociraptor trainer Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) to stop it with help from park manager Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard).
The chefs
Worth Watching?
Jurassic World is a fantastic return to form for the series that set the benchmark for ‘monster on the loose’ blockbusters. It gets so much right by making the action service the plot rather than the other way round, featuring numerous light-hearted moments, gorgeous visuals and just the right amount of nostalgia to delight you without the feel of sycophantic pandering. It doesn’t beat the original, but it comes close.
Stacey, George, Priya, Alex, Anne & Eyad
RCO Iftar
The Royal Charity Organisation held an Iftar for 100 orphan children at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Nabeel, Ahmed, Greg & Anas
Terminator Genisys
Amna & Haifa
Hamad
100 August 2015
Ebrahim, Mohammed & Thajha
Omar
Abdulaziz
Ali
When John Connor (Jason Clarke), leader of the human resistance against Skynet, sends Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) back to 1984 to protect his mother, Sarah (Emilia Clarke), from a Terminator assassin, an unexpected turn of events creates an altered timeline. Instead of a scared waitress, Sarah is a skilled fighter and has a Terminator guardian (Arnold Schwarzenegger) by her side. Faced with unlikely allies and dangerous new enemies, Reese sets out on an unexpected new mission: reset the future.
Ant-Man
Several months after the events of Avengers: Age of Ultron, conman and thief Scott Lang must help his mentor and former hero Dr Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) to protect the secret of his Ant-Man suit, which provides him with the ability to shrink in size but grow in strength and pull off a heist that will save the world.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
bystander
Dreams Society
Kooheji Majlis
Dreams Society held a Ramadan Ghabgha at the Gulf Hotel Convention Centre. Shirley, Suraya & May
The Kooheji family played host to a number of wellwishers at the Kooheji majlis in Janabiya. Fatema & Mary
Nadeem & Abdulrahim Kooheji
Mahmoud Al Kooheji & Dr Abdulrahman
TWI Ghabga Third Wave International hosted its Ghabga party for management and staff at the InterContinental Regency’s Ramadan tent. Catherine, Fallon, Dilip, Anita, Shane, Nick, Shreya, Charmaine, Rizwana, Adam, Sam, Reddy, Sudhakaran, Thuraiya & Israq
www.bahrainthismonth.com
August 2015 101
DINING
AN ORIENTAL OASIS ANKITA MAMGAIN
ALSO THIS MONTH: 103 A ZESTY BITE 104 GAME ON!
The calming environs of this plush five-star restaurant promise a host of gourmet surprises at wallet-friendly prices.
C
hina is a vast and impressive country with famous attractions, rich heritage and, of course, a sensational selection of fine fare. Luckily, fans of Oriental cuisine in the Kingdom don’t need to travel half way across the globe to sample the authentic taste of Asia. Soie is an award-winning Chinese restaurant, located at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, which dishes up daily delights that are sure to suit the tastes of even the most discerning diner. The misconception that all Chinese food is packed with MSG (monosodium glutamate) is laughable, especially when eating at this restaurant, which prides itself on its authentic and true-to-taste reputation. So, when I was asked to review Sioe, I was looking forward to its five-star finery but wasn’t quite sure of what to expect from the new menu. The restaurant, a cosy, heavily-upholstered space with luxurious drapery, artefacts, wooden panels on the walls and ceilings, does full 102 August 2015
justice to its address. Jane, who greeted me at the door with a beaming smile, escorted me to a table overlooking the beautifully-lit garden. Open only for dinner service, you’ll find the lighting just dim enough to make the setting really intimate. Immediately I was impressed with the menu’s eclectic variety. In addition to the usual Cantonese and Szechuan fare, there are a host of dishes from Beijing, Hong Kong and South East Asia. One thing you absolutely can’t help but notice is the astonishingly competitive prices; this is literally haute couture at high street rates. Settled in and munching on some prawn crackers and sipping on a glass of grape, my friend and I ordered bean curd boxes and prawn toast rolls for starters. Beautifully plated, they were a great example of how simple ingredients (when prepared well) can yield the most amazing flavours. Both dishes came with their respective dips, which enhanced the taste further.
The main course comprised of vegetable pad thai, mango crispy chicken and prawn yellow curry. Needless to say, the various textural notes and layers of flavour that I uncovered with each bite left a lasting impression. The fancy cutlery and expensive décor is all rendered inconsequential if the food doesn’t live up to it. Fortunately, in the case of Soie, it certainly does and goes far beyond expectation, especially in terms of creativity. Chef He Cheng says the new menu aims to provide more for less and it’s hard to disagree with him. The high quality and standard of the food remain the same but the prices have been slashed to make the experience more accessible. We ended the meal with a scoop of green tea ice cream with strawberry compote and the price of this decadent experience was under BD30 (including taxes). We suggest you book your table now. Call 17 533-533 or visit www.soiebahrain.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com
dining
LUMEE STREET CAFÉ
A Zesty Bite Offering a host of regional street fare, this charming eatery strikes a balance between old and new and is becoming increasingly popular with the Kingdom’s foodies.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Located in the Tawaweesh section of Al A’ali Shopping Complex, Lumee Street Café adds a touch of exuberance to the scene with its bright and colourful presence. Inspired by the street cafes of the region and bursting with energy, it breaks away from its businesslike surroundings in a fun and delicious way. Lumee, which translates to ‘lemon’ or ‘lime’ in colloquial Bahraini, has been a definite people pleaser since its opening in late 2014. With tables arranged in the aisle for an outdoorsy effect, it’s easy to spot it from a distance. The high ceilings lined with hanging wooden panels, rugs and asymmetric table placement, set the tone for the kind of cuisine it serves. The warm and rustic decor offers a homely dining experience with cosy interiors and comfortable seating. The café-cum-deli features an array of authentic Middle Eastern favourites. Everyday items that you might find at any small grill down the street have been given a remarkable facelift. There is a large display of hot and cold mezze, mains and desserts. From rustic falafels, to the traditional Bahraini tikka and other grills, this venue suits a wide range of taste buds. Lumee is aimed at experimental, urban diners, who are attached to traditional tastes but also eager to try something new.
“Each dining experience at Lumee is a new one,” says Crispin Calderon, the restaurant manager. “From breakfast to lunch and even dinner our authentic Middle Eastern preparations are always fresh, packed with flavour and zest — just like our name.” The ever-changing and impressive daily specials often encompass traditional favourites, with modern culinary touches such as the tasty Veal baba ghanouj and brown rice quinoa biryani. The restaurant is also a great choice for those seeking vegetarian and vegan food options. The restaurant boasts a wide variety fresh out-ofthe-oven flatbreads and crisp salads too. The dining experience is enhanced with traditional Arabic music as guests are welcomed with a variety of flavoured sharbat, a traditional Bahraini beverage. The menu also features a vibrant selection of international teas and coffees — which are often paired with awardwinning house desserts. Open from 8.30am to 11.30pm, Lumee also offers an assortment of locally-sourced and produced packaged products such as pickled lemons, freshly ground spices, homemade pastes and other deli staples. Present your Ahlan rewards card and you can earn points on your bill payment. Follow Lumee on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for regular updates. Call 17 333-747. August 2015 103
dining BENNIGAN’S
Game On! Catch the next nail-biting match with your mates at this friendly neighbourhood joint that promises lip-smacking American delights and Irish hospitality. In addition to its southern specialities and famous ales, Bennigan’s Bahrain is also an ideal place to enjoy all the sporting action. The restaurant and bar, located in Juffair, now shows all the major sporting events and activities, welcoming sports fans to come and cheer for their favourite teams. The live events will be projected on a large screen in addition to being played on six flatscreen TVs installed across the venue. Be it the football Premier League, UEFA Cup, NFL, NBA, baseball matches or motorsports events, there’s no reason to miss out on any action. Check out the schedule of the various matches to be shown in the restaurant, on Bennigan’s Facebook page and on its website. In addition to this, the venue regularly runs some great food and beverage promotions whenever major sporting events are being shown.
You can buy a Budweiser tower for BD15++ and get free ultimate nachos or 20 pieces of buffalo chicken wings or get a bucket of Budweiser or bud five light bottles for only BD8++. Look forward to food promotions such as getting the foot long hot dog for only BD6 ++. The traditional Irish social atmosphere, with smoking and non-smoking sections, a great selection of food and beverages with a team of ‘happy to help’ staff makes Bennigan’s a great
K Hotel Iftar
choice any time of the week. The menu features something for everyone with a full range of entrees, starters, appetisers, soups and salads, main courses and mouth-watering desserts — all at great value for money. Situated in Al Safir Hotel and Tower, the restaurant attracts people from all walks of life and alos offers home delivery. Call 17 813-750.
Mia, Charito & Sheryl
The K Hotel held an Iftar for corporate clients and members of the press at Klouds restaurant. Abdul, Adel & Hussain
Kaizad, Bilal & Sanjay
Jackie, Rhiza & Cel George & Mohammed
Michelle & Cynthia
104 June 2015
The K Hotel staff with members of the press
Momen, Ahmed & Fatima
www.bahrainthismonth.com
dininghappenings
Your Dining Guide From discovering new venues to fantastic food promotions, the Kingdom’s range of eateries ensures a delectable experience throughout the month. Here’s a quick look. Great news for seafood lovers as Waves restaurant in Crowne Plaza is hosting a ‘Sizzling Seafood Platter’ promotion throughout August. If you can’t decide which fish to choose, you can try out the whole lot. Cooked to perfection in a style of your choice with any added sauce, it’s perfect for those seeking a real seafood experience. Curry connoisseurs can head to Spices, the hotel’s Indian restaurant to try out its new menu. Diplomat Radisson Blu’s Italian restaurant Mondo presents a completely new menu. You can look forward to a host of dishes that display true innovation and finesse. The restaurant excels in presenting Italian flavours with a unique twist. At InterContinental Regency Hotel, chef Stefano de Martini takes you on a culinary journey across Italy with a new menu at Medzo restaurant. He has collaborated with award winning chef and IHG Ambassador for Italian Cuisine Theo Randall to create a menu that will get your taste buds racing. Drop in to try some delicious food from northern Italy including house-made pasta, seafood and pizza cooked the traditional way. The set menu will be available from August 17 and will offer a choice of two or three courses and optional beverage pairing. La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art presents a 106 May 2015
When? Throughout August Event? Sizzling Seafood Platter Venue? Waves, Crowne Plaza Savour the day’s fresh catch cooked perfectly to your liking. E Call 17 531-122.
rare combination of culture and cuisine in one place. One of the most beautiful dine-out venues in the Kingdom, it offers a 15 per cent discount on all group bookings of 50 to 150 people. Japanese restaurant Maki invites you to try its new Akagome (red rice) menu featuring several vegetarian, sushi and seafood dishes. These dishes not only deliver on taste and presentation, they’re also loaded with nutritional goodness. Mono Restaurant and Café in Sanabis has undergone a revamp and boasts new décor and a new menu. It offers a wide variety of international fare that you can enjoy with exciting cocktails and live music. Al Safir Hotel & Tower welcomes you to its new venue, Koffee and Kokkie. This fun café provides an ideal space for meetings and to hang out with friends over aromatic brews and a wide variety of baked goods. The hotel has also renovated its Yalla Yalla restaurant that now boasts an outer deck, which overlooks the poolside.
When? Throughout August Event? New menu Venue? Mondo, Diplomat Radisson Blu Try out a fresh selection of dishes at this beautiful venue. E Call 17 531-666. When? From August 17 Event? Special Menu Venue? Medzo, InterContinental Regency Enjoy a variety of dishes by starchef Theo Randall. E Call 17 227-777. When? Throughout August Event? Food promotional Venue? La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art Take advantage of the 15 per cent discount on group bookings. E Call 17 230-123. When? Throughout August Event? Special menu Venue? Maki Sample some gourmet Akagome or red rice preparations. E Call 17 522-733. www.bahrainthismonth.com
diningthemenights wednesday
sunday What? Pizza and Pasta Night Where? Olivos, Diplomat Radisson Blu Sample authentic Italian preparations made at live cooking stations. i Call 17 531-666. What? Dinner with Friends Where? Le Sauvage and Le Domain, The Domain Enjoy a family-styled menu to be shared by a group for BD19++. i Call 16 000-222. What? Coast to Coast Where? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Sample an array dishes from the Mediterranean coastline for BD13. i Call 17 312-700. What? Tex-Mex Night Where? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Indulge in a lavish spread of flavoursome Mexican fare for BD12++. i Call 17 531-122. What? Sangria vs Tapas Where? Camelot Restaurant & Lounge Have a Spanish fiesta with tapas and selected beverages. i Call 39 977-540.
monday
What? Italian Night Where? Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq The Italian buffet features homemade pizza, pastas and desserts. i Call 17 636-363. What? Seafood Night Where? Silk’s, Mövenpick Hotel Delicious seafood preparations are on offer with unlimited drinks for BD27. i Call 17 460-000.
tuesday What? Grape Fest Where? Camelot Organised from 7pm until 10 pm, this wine tasting night is priced at BD10. i Call 39 159-912. What? Tex-Mex Night Where? Klouds, The K Hotel Your favourite Mexican dishes are prepared using the finest ingredients. i Call 17 360-000.
What? Curry Night Where? Olivos, Diplomat Radisson Blu Savour lip-smacking curries from the subcontinent for BD15++. i Call 17 531-666.
What? Gala Dinner Night Where? Legendz, InterContinental Regency Treat yourself to a four-course dinner of prime cuts for BD22++. i Call 17 227-777.
What? Jazz Night Where? 338 Garden Restaurant Enjoy jazz tunes by the magical duo True Blue with great food. i Call 39 159-912.
What? Surf & Turf Night Where? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Enjoy your favourite seafood and meaty delights for BD12++. i Call 17 531-122.
What? All-You-Can-Eat Night Where? Imari, The Domain Enjoy authentic maki rolls and great city views for BD14++. i Call 16 000-333.
What? Sushi & Sake Night Where? Kontiki, Diplomat Radisson Blu Indulge in gourmet sushi bites and free-flowing sake for BD15++. i Call 17 531-666.
What? Grill and Pasta Night Where? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Relish grills and a variety of pastas for BD12++. i Call 17 531-122.
What? Caveman Tuesday Where? Le Sauvage and Le Domain [34] Enjoy an ‘all you can eat’ deal on ribeye steak for BD14++. i Call 16 000-222.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
thursday
What? Asian Night Where? Klouds, The K Hotel The extensive buffet of Asian cuisine is priced at BD12++, inclusive of soft drinks. i Call 17 360-000.
What? BBQ Rib Night Where? Le Sauvage, Le Domain, The Domain Indulge in fine steaks cooked to perfection for BD12++. i Call 16 000-222.
What? Butchers’ Night Where? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Enjoy fine quality steaks cooked to your preference for BD13++. i Call 17 713-000.
What? Tandoori Sizzlers Night Where? Oasis, Elite Seef Residence Enjoy a sizzlers from a clay oven with your favourite drinks. i Call 17 583-388.
What? Sushi Night Where? Keizo, Al Areen Palace This chic venue offers a 50 per cent discount on selected sushi. i Call 17 845-000. What? Dim Sum Festival Where? Kontiki, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Sample a wide variety of delicious dim sums for BD15++. i Call 17 531-666.
What? Seafood Night Where? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Seafood delights are on offer for BD21++ with selected beverages. i Call 17 713-000. What? Seafood Night Where? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Delicious preparations of the day’s catch are on offer at BD20.950. i Call 17 531-122.
What? BBQ Night Where? Zytoun, Novotel Al Dana Savour a wide variety of grills with selected beverages for BD18. i Call 17 298-008.
What? Steak Night Where? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain The evening offers some of the best cuts straight off the grill. i Call 17 531-122.
What? Seasons of France Where? Saraya, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Savour French cuisine at its finest for BD22 with a choice of wine. i Call 17 565-888.
What? International Night Where? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain A lavish buffet serves the best of international cuisine for BD12++. i Call 17 531-122.
What? Hot & Cold Wednesdays Where? Camelot Restaurant & Lounge Enjoy chicken lollipop wings and unlimited selected beverages. i Call 39 977-540.
What? Barbecue Night Where? Olivos, Diplomat Radisson Blu Enjoy sizzling grills from the barbecue by the outdoor pool. i Call 17 531-666.
What? Arabian Night Where? Kenza, The K Hotel Regional flavours served in authentic Arabian settings for BD8. i Call 17 360-000.
What? Seafood Night Where? Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip Sample a variety of delicious seafood for BD 13.5++. i Call 17 535-000.
What? Arabic Buffet Where? Al Wasmeyyah, Golden Tulip Enjoy authentic dishes with live cooking station for BD 8.500++. i Call 17 535-000.
What? Unlimited Ribs Night Where? Le Sauvage and Le Domain [34] Satisfy your hunger for the juiciest ribs for BD9.9. i Call 16 000-222.
What? Seafood Night Where? Lemon Tree, Ramee Grand Savour some luxurious seafood preperations for BD 14++. i Call 17 111-999.
What? Claws Where? Saveur, The Westin Enjoy the finest catch of the day and selected beverages for BD30. i Call 17 171-441.
What? Unlimited Ribs Night Where? Le Sauvage and Le Domain [34] Feast on an unlimited supply of ribs for BD9.9. i Call 16 000-222.
What? Paelleras Night Where? Al Noor, Elite Resort & Spa Taste some Spanish zing at this exquisite seafood buffet for BD12. i Call 17 313-333.
What? Seafood Nights Where? La Med, The Ritz-Carlton Relish fresh seafood cooked to your liking for BD18 ++. i Call 17 586-499.
What? Thursday Night Grills Where? Waikiki, Elite Resort & Spa Enjoy fine cuts of meat cooked to perfection for BD12. i Call 17 313-333.
friday
What? Jazz & BBQ Night Where? Oasis, Elite Seef Residence Enjoy tasty bites fresh from the grill with jazz music for BD12. i Call 17 583-388. What? Sizzler Night Where? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Enjoy a variety of sizzling treats offered at this unlimited buffet. i Call 17 713-000.
saturday What? Seafood Night Where? Klouds, The K Hotel Enjoy delicious preparations of fresh seafood for BD12++. i Call 17 360-000. What? Mexican Night Where? Olivos, Diplomat Radisson Blu Indulge in a variety of Mexican delicacies for BD15++. i Call 17 531-666. What? International Night Where? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel Bahrain Sample authentic preparations from different countries for BD12++. i Call 17 713-000. August 2015 107
bystander
Hisan
Brushed Studio Opening The launch of Brushed Studio for hair and make-up was held at Shukri Photography in Adliya. Sarah, Sadeeqa, Nahid & Eman
Vinnie
Farah & Greta
Semreen & Fehmina Tania
Sara & Shaikha
Elderly Iftar
Sally & Charlie
Reema
The Rotary Club of Adliya held its annual elderly Iftar, at the Elite Resort & Spa’s Ramadan tent. Rotarians with their guests
Zoher, Laith, Hamed & Fareed
Tariq & Noor
108 August 2015
Abdulla & Sherry
Shyam & Mohammed
Nicolas & Jenny
www.bahrainthismonth.com
What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma
A Poetic Homage Amouage’s ninth volume in the Library Collection, Opus IX, has top notes of camellia accord, black pepper and jasmine; gaiac wood, beeswax and leather form its heart with grey amber, vetiver and civet as base notes. Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.
A Dream Come True! The newest collection from Bath & Body Works, Tahiti Island Dream features the addictive scent of coconut water, Tahitian vanilla musk and kiwi blossom and ranges from luxurious shower gel to eau de parfum. Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.
Sporty Meets Elegant Alpina invented the modern sports watch with the ‘Alpina 4’ in 1938. Now, it brings back the ‘4’ concept with its new model. The Alpina Alpiner GMT 4 automatic silver dial steel men's watch AL-550S5AQ6B combines essential features like antimagnetic, antishock, water-resistant at 100 meters/330 feet, stainless steel case and a bi-directional rotating bezel with compass function. Available at A La Mode, Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.
A Perfect Companion The latest addition to the Lanvin family, the Lanvin Mini Sugar has all the makings of a new “it” bag. A small version of its more classical counterpart, it’s lighter, featuring two pockets whose dimensions have been reworked to hold all your essentials. Available at Moda Mall.
Hot to Trot The spirit of the 1970s is the main theme for Pull&Bear’s new woman’s collection for the Autumn-Winter season featuring classic shapes and colours ranging from brick red to orange. The men’s collection draws on street style offering design basics in sharp monochrome. Available at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain. www.bahrainthismonth.com
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bystander
other events
An Iftar and Gergaoun party was organised by the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel for the Al Sanabel Orphans Care Society.
Romina Vecchi, wife of the Italian Ambassador, HE Alberto Vecchi, organised a ladies farewell Ghabga at their residence.
Qatar Airways hosted a Ghabga for staff and media at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
Writer Relocations organised a Ghabga at the Al Thuraya, InterContinental Regency.
The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities president Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa unveiled the 2015 Bahrain Summer Festival activities during a press conference.
Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons hosted its annual Ghabga in appreciation of its business partners. The event was attended by management, staff and invited guests.
www.jfcbahrain.com
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bystander
other events
The Japanese Embassy Bahrain honoured retiree, Fatima Al Khatib, a long-term employee, with the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Silver Rays, conferred by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.
Al Hawaj & Sons hosted a Ramadan Ghabga at the Al Hawaj gardens in Budaiya.
The Bahrain British Business Forum organised a Ramadan Quiz Night for its members at the British Club.
Sheraton Bahrain Hotel hosted a Ramadan Iftar for the elderly from the UCO Care Centre.
Kalaam Telecom held a customer assurance product launch at the Four Season Hotel Bahrain Bay.
EK Kanoo held a media Ghabga at the Gulf Hotel Ramadan tent.
A safety awareness campaign was run by Yamaha in association with the Hawar International School. The event was conducted in the presence of Bahrain Coast Guard.
The new Seef Mall Muharraq was officially inaugurated under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Medpoint hosted a Ramadan Ghabga under the patronage of Shaikha Noora bint Khalifa Al Khalifa.
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marketplace
DESSANGE PARIS
Silky Smooth Try the latest in hygienic hair-removal treatments available at this leading spa and salon.
Although waxing may never be a pleasant experience, you can at least be sure that it is done to the highest standard at this iconic venue. If you’re looking for a professional and, most importantly, hygienic waxing service, visit Dessange Paris in Adliya. It offers a PhD waxing treatment with the original, tried and tested disposable tube
applicator. In this method, heated wax is applied to the desired area and when it completely dries out, it is pulled off along with the unsightly hair. Although the same procedure is used in many spas and salons, a PhD waxing is a bit different. The abbreviated PhD stands for ‘professional, hygienic and disposable’ and the method eliminates any chances of infections associated with waxing. With PhD, there is no risk of cross contamination from client to client. At the start of each treatment, a fresh disposable applicator is attached to the tube of wax. These applicators have a gate mechanism to prevent wax from re-entering the tube and the tube is held at 45-degree angle in the booster chamber so there is no chance of any wax flowing back. At the end of the treatment, the disposable applicator is removed and thrown away. The results of the PhD waxing method last for up to a month and it is friendlier on skin than other permanent solutions like laser hair removal. PhD is not only one of the safest waxing system, it is also the leading hair removal treatment used in premium salons worldwide. Dessange Paris offers the very latest services and products of hair styling, beauty, exercise, nutrition and spa rituals in the Kingdom. Quality, service and hygiene form the core of the company have kept Dessange at the forefront of the beauty and wellness service industry for nearly 50 years. Call 17 713-999.
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www.bahrainthismonth.com
marketplace CATERWORLD
Serving the Trade Since its launch eight years ago, this company has gained a reputation for supplying high-quality products to the hotel and catering industry. Based in Exhibition Road, Caterworld counts international four- and fivestar hotel brands and some of the island’s favourite restaurants among the clients for which it supplies a wide range of internationally-known catering products. Using regular attendance at trade shows to keep its product lines fresh and up-to-the-minute and an excellent relationship with its international suppliers, Caterworld stocks, among others: RAK Porcelain – chinaware; Tiger, Korea – buffet products; Stolzle, Germany – fine
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dining glassware; Arcoroc, France — glassware; Safemark, USA — hotel safes; Lidell, Ireland — high quality towels and linens; Abert, Italy — tabletop products and cutlery; JVD, France — housekeeping and front office equipment and Inoksan, Turkey and Unox, Italy — commercial kitchen equipment. A company spokesman says: “Over the years, we have built a reputation of trust with our customers in terms of providing good quality products and efficient service. Caterworld is increasing its market share at a rapid pace and is now in a position to meet their demands in a more challenging world.” Caterworld is also a distributor and wholesaler of glassware, crockery, cutlery, linen, furniture, kitchen and catering equipment and housekeeping and room service supplies and equipment. Call 17 311-488.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
THE AMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL — BAHRAIN
Nurturing Young Minds
A member of the AMA Education System, this school is noted for its long experience in terms of information technology-based education and tradition of delivering quality education. AMA International School Bahrain (AMAISB) has a fully-equipped study environment with competent staff and teachers who are committed to nurture, encourage and inspire young minds from ages three to 18. The American curriculum is based on American standards of achievement in all subject areas, supported by a huge range of co-curricular activities ensuring that students have the opportunity to develop fully as individuals. English is the medium of instructions except for Arabic language, Islamic studies and Bahrain government & citizenship. International students take French as a second language of study. Computer literacy is also a strength of the school. Both Arabic and computer literacy are offered in all levels from nursery to 12th Grade together with the basic subjects. Middle and high school students have elective subjects which can help them gain further preparation for university studies. AMAISB is the Kingdom’s first school to offer robotics as a key part of the curriculum. The programme provides innovative robotics education challenging the intellectual, critical and analytic skills of the students.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
In the pursuit of educational excellence, the school has embarked on internationalmindedness through the offering of IB Diploma Program to Grade 11 and 12 students. This has been made possible by the accreditation of the school as an IB World School by the International Baccalaureate Organization of Geneva. The IGCSE Cambridge Curriculum has been a part of the regular offering for Grades 9 and 10 since 2014 and the school is now getting ready to implement Cambridge Secondary for Grades 7 and 8. In order to develop informed, thinking and disciplined individuals capable of participating
fully in their respective national settings and globally, AMA International School – Bahrain aims to establish an environment which promotes the highest possible standards of education, encourages the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary for life-long development of a total person, prepares students to adapt and adjust to the complexities and challenges of an increasingly interdependent and constantly changing world and fosters awareness of the rights, duties and responsibilities of citizenship, as well as respect for other cultures and nationalities. Call 17 598-440 / 35 652-453.
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marketplace
PUMA
Superlight Evolution Endorsed by some of the world’s best footballers, a new boot enters the market to give players an added advantage.
116 August 2015
Light and fast have become lighter and faster as PUMA introduces an innovative football boot — the evoSPEED SL. This newly revealed boot is a superlight evolution of the evoSPEED and is PUMA’s lightest match boot to date. The shoe is designed to give footballers a new game advantage enhancing speed and agility. Some of the world’s best players including Sergio Aguero, Marco Reus, Radamel Falcao, Marco Verratti, Antoine Griezmann and many more will sport the revolutionary playing footwear from now on. The majority of the radical weight reduction was achieved through the use of a super-light, almost translucent textile upper material. Whilst maintaining the necessary stability, the low weight PUMA Speedframe (a lightweight engineered support skeleton in the upper part of the shoe for more stability during fast movements) adds to the overall lightweight theme of the evoSPEED SL. Further essential support is given through a minimalist heel counter, which provides the foot with a snug fit. The traction studs support the players’ forward acceleration and enable better ground penetration. Combined with the five conical studs that are placed in the forefront and medial back end of the boot, change of direction and quick turns are radically improved. The outsole features the raised PUMA Speedtrack spine that further supports torsion when dribbling around opponents. The launch colour of the evoSPEED SL is lava blast, a bright red Pantone that was exclusively created for PUMA.
“I am still amazed with how light these boots actually are,” says Sergio Aguero. “When the box with the boots was delivered to my house a few weeks ago for the first time, I thought the box was empty. This boot is a real step forward and PUMA has done a really impressive job creating it.” “This new boot is a real change to what we have been wearing before, it actually looks and feels like a totally new product,” says Marco Reus. “They are so light, you can almost not feel them, and still I feel they give me exactly that support I need to have from a boot. This is a whole new direction of boot design.” The evoSPEED SL will be officially launched on the pitch worn by PUMA players and will be available for purchase from this month at the PUMA store in City Centre Bahrain. Call 17 178-046.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
JOZ SALON & SPA
Get Diamond-worthy Skin
very messy if crystals are used. The Diamond Peel is safe, effective, gentle and clean, doesn’t leave any residue on the skin and allows you to see exactly how much dead skin and debris is removed.
Did you ever wish that you could wave a magic wand over your face and poof — your sun damage, scars, blotchiness or lines are erased? A Diamond Peel can do just that!
Joz Salon & Spa brings the Diamond Peel system which can stimulate cells below the skin’s surface as a result of extensive surface exfoliation. A variety of 16 different diamond tip wands allow for steady, controlled results. The benefits are a more radiant, softer skin enhanced by a smoother texture visibly; fewer lines and wrinkles and a reduction in the appearance of scars. It is ideal for enlarged pores, breakouts, acne scarring, sun damage, uneven skin tone and texture as well as fine lines and wrinkles. What is Diamond Peel? It is a crystal-free microdermabrasion. During this procedure, a state-of-the-art diamond-cut handpiece with a sandpaper-like surface is used to gently remove the dead skin and debris on the outer layer of your skin, leaving smoother, cleaner and brighter skin. How is the Diamond Peel different from regular microdermabrasion? Unlike traditional crystal microdermabrasion, which blows crystals on the skin and then removes them via suction, the Diamond Peel uses a diamond-cut precision handpiece to gently exfoliate the skin. The risk of crystal microdermabrasion is that some crystals can tear the skin or even stay lodged in the skin after the procedure. The process can also be
www.bahrainthismonth.com
What does the Diamond Peel do for the skin? The Diamond Peel gently and safely removes the outer layers of the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis) and any debris on the skin such as surface blackheads, oil and dirt. It is excellent for anyone whose skin is dull, flaky, dry and dirty and for anyone with clogged pores. The Diamond Peel can also help improve the appearance of brown spots and wrinkles as well as help patients with mild to moderate acne by opening up the pores and allowing them to breathe. What is the Diamond Peel treatment like? “When you come in for a Diamond Peel, we will examine your face to make sure that you don’t have any broken skin or other contraindication,” says a salon spokesperson. “We will cleanse your face thoroughly and prep your face with a degreasing solution, which will allow the Diamond Peel to remove the dead cells more effectively. The Diamond Peel procedure will then be performed. After the procedure, we will show you how much dead skin and debris was removed during the process. We will then apply a soothing mask to relax and hydrate your skin. You will leave looking and feeling refreshed and you’ll immediately feel the difference!” The Diamond Peel is only available at Joz Salon & Spa’s Juffair branch. Call 17 369-133. August 2015 117
marketplace JUNAID PERFUMES
A World of Fragrances
Rewaya
One of the leading perfumers in the region introduces its latest line of fragrances, created exclusively for its loyal patrons for the summer season. Junaid Perfumes, one of the traditional perfumeries on the island, launches three new scents for the new season that make for an ideal gift for your loved ones. Tuhfa Oil — a gift so divine Designed exclusively for the successful man and the unique woman, this wonderful oil concentrate is delicate yet intense. Blending
scent holds a tale of ethnic Arabian mysteries that combines the beauty of rose, with floral blend and intense musk. The new set comprises of oil, perfume spray and an aluminium bottle spray, making Rewaya usable at any time, occasion and in any form. Designed for the woman with intensity and grace, Rewaya presents itself as a perfect gift this summer.
qualities of warm amber and saffron, Tuhfa Oil takes an Arabian route with bold oud and musk. Presented in a delicate red and gold enamelled bottle, Tuhfa Oil is a gift for a special occasion. “Tuhfa Oil is yet another creation that defines the true spirit of togetherness and warmth,” says marketing director Fahad Junaid.
Bahja Oil — the scent of happy memories This brand new Arabian oil invites you to wrap yourself in a delicate combination of amber, musk and sandalwood. Created for a woman with a bold personality, Bahja Oil is a warm fragrance presented in a delicately crafted bottle. “Bahja Oil has been created keeping in mind traditional Arabian roots and customs,” says Fahad. “The new fragrance is bound to keep you mesmerised for hours.”
Rewaya — uncover the mysteries of a forgotten tale Rewaya is a new product inspired by the unwavering desire and the peerless appearance of the woman of today. Captured intricately in a crystalline bottle, this truly divine
Established in 1910, Junaid Perfumes is one of the oldest perfumers in the GCC. Over the years, the company has grown significantly in repute and stature and today operates over 150 exclusive retail outlets across the world. Call 17 737-007.
Bahja Oil
Tuhfa Oil
BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL
Feel Your Best Breast implant surgery — also called breast augmentation — is one of the most common cosmetic procedures carried out across the world, and Bahrain is no different. Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure undertaken to improve the aesthetic appearance of the female breast, usually by enhancing the size and, occasionally, to improve the shape. Each patient is an individual and certain techniques may be appropriate for some patients and not others depending on existing chest wall anatomy, breast size and shape. At all times expectations must be realistic to avoid disappointment and these should be carefully discussed with your surgeon. The aim is to increase the size of the breast using an implant placed in a pocket behind the breast tissue. The most commonly used implant is a silicone envelope filled with a soft silicone gel whereas saline (salt water) filled implants 118 August 2015
are available but seldom used. The goal is to produce breasts of normal proportion to the patient’s body, whilst maintaining function, softness and sensitivity. It should be noted that surgery cannot create younger skin or eliminate stretch marks. It does not address personal or psychological issues and should not be used as a solution to them. Minor degrees of drooping (ptosis) of the breast may be improved, however, significant drooping will require additional lifting surgery with or without augmentation, which can be more complex. Modern breast implants are certified medical grade devices, which are perfectly safe and have demonstrated no body harm over many investigative studies. Patients usually stay in hospital for one night following surgery although some can go home on the same day. Post surgery, a supportive undergarment is worn for about two weeks to keep implants in place and to attain the desired breast shape.
Dr Salil Bharadwaj
For the first week women should avoid lifting weights or any exercises involving arm movement, chest or abdominal strain. Regular exercise should only be resumed after six weeks and built up gradually as comfort allows. Dr Salil Bharadwaj is the consultant plastic surgeon at Bahrain Specialist Hospital. Call 13 381-338. www.bahrainthismonth.com
VIVA
Promotions and Plans Galore Triple Data with VIVA Home Broadband Plans Offering customers the ultimate broadband experience, VIVA has introduced a triple data allowance on its 4G Home Broadband sharing plans with free access to social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and Whatsapp, in addition to web surfing and downloading of favourite films and music. Moreover, customers can also get free 4G LTE broadband devices, free extra sharing SIMs, unlimited calls to all VIVA numbers and discounted international rates from VIVA home lines. All this is offered with broadband sharing plans that start from BD7 monthly subscription with 15GB data allowance. For VIVA customers with extensive broadband requirements, there is the flexibility to choose from Broadband packages 10, 15, 25 and 35, offered with a monthly fee and shared data of 30GB, 45GB, 90GB and 180GB respectively. The packages are available on 24-month and 12-month contracts, giving customers the option to pay upfront for LTE devices and enjoy triple monthly data allowance.
In a constant effort to keep its customers happy, one of the island’s leading telecommunications companies is offering a variety of exciting new introductions.
VIVA has introduced an array of promotions and value-added plans allowing everyone to enjoy the latest gadgets and smartphones as well as broadband packages on the Kingdom’s fastest and widest 4G LTE network. Sony PlayStation 4 VIVA customers can now immerse themselves in the incredible gaming world of Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) and its extensive features, combined with free games, by subscribing to any VIVA Postpaid Broadband plan. For avid gamers, VIVA offers the best gaming experience by providing the gadget on 24-months or 18-months contract subscription, with an easy monthly instalment of BD10.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
Special Roaming Package for Umrah This is a special promotional roaming package, available for VIVA customers who will be travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), enabling them to stay connected with their family and friends while on their spiritual journey and experience unlimited data, free minutes for calls and SMS. The BD15 package adds to the convenience of VIVA customers, both postpaid and prepaid, to use their Bahrain number in KSA without the hassle of getting a local SIM card. It includes unlimited data access, 50 minutes of outgoing calls to Bahrain and/or KSA, 50 minutes of incoming calls and 50 additional text messages. To take advantage of this service, VIVA customers can SMS ‘ON’ to 98865 or dial *98865#. The promotion is valid until the end of September. Call 124 or visit www.viva.com.bh.
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marketplace AÉROPOSTALE
WEAR WHAT YOU WANT BD 9
Young and fun, this is the coolest American brand for guys and girls who love fashion. This year’s Summer collection gives your creative edge freedom to build your own look. An Inspiration from Hawaiian getaway, tribal patterns and oceanic palette are the ‘go to’ pieces this season.
BD 14.5
BD 17 BD 18.5 BD 9
BD 14.5 120 August 2015
www.bahrainthismonth.com
BD 16
BD 7.5
BD 9.5
BD 14.5
BD 9
City Centre Bahrain | Level 1 | Tel. No. 16 680-100 www.bahrainthismonth.com
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marketplace
THE WATCH BOUTIQUE
Time is Precious
This leading watch manufacturer places emphasis on an uncompromising redesign of the timepiece and its control elements. In an age of technological innovation and digital domination, the wristwatch remains a classic accessory that not only provides function — it gives insight into the wearer’s personality. For Damasko Uhrenmanufaktur, the journey to becoming a watch manufacturer began with the vision of making mechanical wristwatches more robust, more accurate and requiring less maintenance. In accordance with this philosophy, Damasko developed new cases and components, tested new materials and designed extraordinary special solutions. Even being the technological leader for hardened stainless steel cases and components was not enough to keep Damasko satisfied. The company is constantly improving its designs; using special oils and greases for areas subject to particular stress, nanotechnological coatings for the reduction of friction, and replacing components more often. With the aim of meeting requirements for highest precision, aesthetics and workmanship, Damasko achieves a production depth of nearly 90 per cent on its self-manufactured models, which are based on more than 100 pending patents, designs and patterns. Besides its aviation industry-inspired watches, Damasko strives to create a harmony of dimensions with its inner bezel and designs. 122 August 2015
The clear, plain composition of the dial combined with the special shape of the hands lead to a precise readability even under adverse circumstances. Large Aviators have the first automatic manufactory calibre A35-1 developed with leading technologies such as the balance spring made of polysilicon. It is lighter and stronger than steel, anti-magnetic and dimensionally stable. The Damasko sporty chronographs are classic and owners of these models focus on understatement. Inside the timepiece there is an anti-magnetic, temperature compensated and shock resistant silicon spring, a reinforced barrel for a longer power reserve of 52 hours and a rotor with ceramic bearings. The Damasko bracelet is 100-per-cent made in-house in Germany and every connecting part is assembled by hand. The manufactory bracelet, including the deployment buckle, consists of the same icehardened stainless steel as the Damasko manufactory case and is nearly indestructible. Professionals in demanding environments test Damasko watches, which come with a professional endorsement from Airbus Defence Systems. These are not just watches with designs; these are watches where form follows function. Come feel it, and ‘wrist’ it at The Watch Boutique, Gate 7, Seef Mall. Call 17 530-329. www.bahrainthismonth.com
INTERCOL
Standards to New Heights This well-known company has teamed up with one of the leading elevator manufacturers in the world to help you through life’s ups and downs.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
The Electro-Mechanical Division (EMD) is one of the fastest growing divisions of Intercol, with a vision to expand into the construction industry. Since its inception, EMD has enlisted a team of qualified and experienced engineers and skilled technical personnel who provide total solutions for elevators, escalators, heating, ventilation and cooling solutions and mechanical, electrical and plumbing works. EMD has completed projects for varied clientele in prestigious office complexes, retail outlets, luxury villas, commercial buildings, shopping malls, warehouses and industrial complexes. To meet the fast growing demand in the construction industry for elevators and escalators, Intercol has teamed up with one of the leading elevator manufacturers in the world. Fuji Elevators, founded in 1987, specialises in the design, manufacture, sales, installation and maintenance of elevators and escalators. Fuji Elevators
commands a leading position in the elevator market. With more than 28 years of experience, Fuji Elevators produces a variety of products, such as high-speed elevators, observation elevators, MRL elevators, machine-room elevators, freight elevators, commercial escalators, public service escalators and passenger conveyors. The company has gained a reputation within both domestic and overseas markets for its leading technology and innovative ideas. Intercol utilises its infrastructure, skilled personnel and management team to ensure high-quality and professional installations of its products. Intercol offers the longest warranty service on all elevator and escalator products in Bahrain. All installations are also inclusive of a free service and maintenance period. A dedicated team is available 24/7 in case of any emergency. Call 17 827-821. August 2015 123
marketplace AMERICAN BEDS
Most Superior Sleep Ever! A good mattress can make or break your sleep, so for a comfortable night’s rest it’s essential that you choose the right bed and accessories. American Beds guarantees the healthiest and most comfortable sleep ever with an extensive range of products. The company believes that the best mattress for you isn’t necessarily the priciest one, which is why it offers the right mattress to suit your individual needs. American Beds’ ‘sleep consultants’ understand the key to a good night’s sleep and will provide you with the knowledge and information on its wonderful range of bed sets, pillows, duvets, mattress toppers and bed linen - all in a relaxed environment. It’s important that you take your time, try several different models and ask as many questions as you like, prior to making an educated purchase. The American Beds showroom, located in Manama, offers the widest selection of luxurious bed sets anywhere in Bahrain including its exclusive and revolutionary Restonic patented ComfortCare Signature mattress, featuring Outlast technology. It’s designed with certified space technology with gel-infused foam, incorporating ventilated airflow border edges. It cleverly absorbs your excess body heat, allowing the mattress to breathe so you and your partner can benefit greatly by the increased cool sleepable mattress surface. In addition, your mattress and bed linen will stay fresher longer so you can sleep more soundly without having to continuously kick off the duvet. Visit American Beds showroom, where the dedicated sales staff right through to the friendly delivery team will provide you with the best advice, service, value and price. Call 17 213-995 or email info@americanbeds.com for more information.
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Air Flow
Latex Foam
Memory Foam
www.bahrainthismonth.com
ASIA JEWELLERS
Stylish Time Keeping Offering a rare combination of beauty, built quality and luxury, this designer label presents fresh time pieces for the season.
www.bahrainthismonth.com
If you care anything at all about fashion, you’re probably familiar with Gucci. This Italian design house has been creating fashionable clothing and accessories since 1921. The company soon branched out into all areas of fashion and naturally time pieces became one of brand’s hottest selling items. Gucci’s time collection offers exquisite designs; good build quality and more innovation than you’d expect from a designer house whose primary product is clothing. The brand presents two new additions to the Horse Bit watch collection in pink gold PVD. The horse bit motif, one of the house’s signature icons, has been translated into a stylish watch design in the existing Horse Bit timepiece collection and the company has introduced two new variants, which are available in a delicate 28mm size. The design with a black dial and Roman numerals offers a classic look, while the second model, with a mother of pearl dial set with diamonds at three, six and nine o’clock, provides a more precious touch. The horse bit design takes centre stage and the curves of this elegant motif gently embrace the bangle, sweeping around the understated dial. Simple yet stylish, the dials exhibit the ‘Swiss Made’ seal at six o’clock and the Gucci logo at 12 or three o’clock. These new timepieces come in chic bangle style, adding further refinement while remaining wearable for every day. In addition to the elegance of the Horse Bit watch
collection, the brand adds colour to its Interlocking watch line, introducing a bright and seasonal palette. The timepieces come in charming tones of pink and blue and can be teamed with other Gucci accessories in the same hues. The design is made up of two bold ‘G’s, a reference to the entwined initials of the brand’s founder, Guccio Gucci. The motif is worked in contrasting brushed and polished stainless steel and the watch’s large 37mm size accentuates the sweeping curves of this recognisable emblem. Sun-brushed dials in pink or blue are paired with calf leather straps in matching colour, which will add a splash of exuberance to your look. Vibrant and playful, this pair is an ideal way to accessorise for any season. The design house has been developing and manufacturing iconic watches since the early 1970s. Its unique ability of pairing modernity and heritage, innovation and craftsmanship, edge and sophistication, has made Gucci Timepieces, one of the most reliable and consistent fashion watch brands. Made in Switzerland, these watches are recognised for their high design and quality and are distributed worldwide through the exclusive network of directly operated Gucci boutiques and selected watch distributors. In Bahrain, these can be purchased at Asia Jewellers outlets. Call 17 581-444. August 2015 125
marketplace SWISS-BELHOTEL SEEF
New Sky Bar In Seef Perched on the 28th floor of Swiss-Belhotel Seef is the newest sky-bar address in Bahrain. B28 Bar Lounge and Restaurant offers visitors 360-degree views of the city in an intimate and trendy ambiance. The venue provides a cosy and stylish place to relax after a long day at work and enjoy exclusive cocktails or favourite drinks among friends and colleagues. Looks matter and the interior of this new address speaks volumes. Wooden floors, comfy sofas and an impressive bar counter are key features and guests are sure to be entertained watching the bar’s master mixilogist in action. B28 prides itself on being the ideal place to relax and have fun. The music is as eclectic as the drinks menu and the evenings start with the sounds of the 80s before switching to a more loungy ambience. Meanwhile, the B28 Grill Restaurant offers a food sharing concept featuring a tantilising selection of grilled prime meats and seafood. The show kitchen allows guests to watch the chef and his team in action. B28 Grill is a casual and trendy place offering great value on favourites such as wasabe buttered jumbo prawns and fish and chips. The attentive employees and friendly service make you feel like you’re at a home away from home. B28 Bar Lounge is open weekdays from 4pm – 2am and from 1pm – 2am on weekends. B28 Grill is open from 6pm – 12 midnight everyday. Call 17 311-488.
YATEEM AIR CONDITIONING
A Breath of Fresh Air
Clean air is a basic necessity of life and we all need it to be healthy and to thrive. This air conditioning company cares for your health by offering a wide range of quality products. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution is often five times worse than outside air. Yateem Air Conditioning understands this basic need. The company believes you and 126 August 2015
your family deserve to live in a healthy indoor environment and presents the American made Fresh-Aire UV product range for its customers. With numerous industry awards and patents, Fresh-Aire UV is recognised the world over as a leader in the areas of UV light disinfection and indoor air quality. These products aren’t just for people with asthma or allergies, they also keep your air system clean and make it last longer, improve indoor air quality, eliminate
unpleasant odours and help extend the life of air conditioning systems. Yateem Air Conditioning, one of the most prominent air conditioning companies in the Kingdom, promises you peace of mind. It remains at the forefront of cutting edge technology, offering the latest in ‘Carrier’ and ‘Climatic’ products, whether it’s a room air conditioner, mini split or central air conditioning for your villa or building. “For your ‘health care’, we are able to install special filtration and UV lamps to kill odours,” says a company spokesperson. “In fact, with over 65 years experience in the air conditioning (HVAC) business, our product range is extensive and focused on beating the expectations of our valued customers. So, for any heating, ventilation and air conditioning requirements for your home or office, you know who to call.” All the company staff are trained in, and actively promote, its seven customer principles: friendliness, integrity, attention to detail, cleanliness, teamwork, communication and time focus. Call 17 271-122, 17 253-177 or email showroom@yateemac.net. www.bahrainthismonth.com
ASIA JEWELLERS
Maritime Moments
Take a minute to admire the new and improved, iconic timepiece from the house of luxury watchmaker Corum.
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They say time and tide wait for no man. Two decades ago, master watchmaker Corum introduced a remarkable timepiece that helped you keep a close check on both. Corum Admiral’s Cup Ac-One 45 Tides enjoys an iconic status among sea-lovers and connoisseurs of precision watches. Till now, this model, with mechanical movements indicating the time and strength of the tides, the lunar cycle, as well as the strength of the currents and the height of the tides, remains a truly unique specimen in the watchmaking world. The primary strength of Corum Admiral’s Cup AC-One 45 Tides is unquestionably its CO 277 calibre which provided an effective solution for nautical timekeeping. It was developed with the aid of the famous creator Dubois-Depraz, with input from scientific institutions such as the National Hydrographic Service from the French Navy in Brest and the Astronomic Observatory of Geneva. Corum and its affiliates spent three years of laborious work to be able to produce a movement that provides all the necessary tidal details, which are essential when you are sailing the high seas. The latest CO 277 calibre provides these navigationrelated indications on a striking red dial with sub-dials
that are more meticulously styled than ever. The watch gives the wearer information about how strong and high the tides are and when high and low tide will next occur. For most of the world, each happens twice in a day. The Moon, which determines tidal movements, appears at 12 o’clock. When it is a full or new moon, the strength of the tides – indicated by a dedicated hand on the dial – is at its peak, with a 95 to120 coefficient, and hovers between 20 to 45 during the first and last moon quarters. The six o’clock sub-dial indicates the time of the next two tides in the coming 24-hour period. To know whether the tide is rising or ebbing, the user need only consult the counter at nine o’clock, which also indicates the current strength. The maximum tide intensity is shown when the pointer is on the horizontal red line. The strength of the decreasing current is shown when the hand moves towards the high and low tides indicator reaching its lowest strength on alignment with the vertical white line. The date is displayed at 3 o’clock. These remarkably engineered sub-dials are elegantly arranged and adorned with Corum’s famous and exclusive ‘split pomegranate’ motif on the main dial. The iconic nautical pennants on the inner bezel ring lend an elegant overall sense of depth to the structure. You can find this beautiful watch at any Asia Jewellers outlet. Call 17 535-344.
August 2015 127
marketplace business bites
TripAdvisor Awards City Centre Bahrain
New USD6.5-million Cinema for Riffa Bahrain Cinema Company, also known as Cineco, has signed a major deal with the Wadi Al Sail Mall in Riffa to lease space for a new six-screen Cineplex and a branch of Rendezvous restaurant. Construction work has already started on the project and completion is scheduled for mid-March 2016. Cineco CEO, Ahmed Rashed, says: “Our strides towards constantly furthering our growth include the exponential introduction of a nation-wide network of multiplexes, to add to the impressive figures we currently offer, that will boast the screening of quality movies of international acclaim using the most advanced technology that is currently available in the entertainment industry.” The new Cineplex will have the impressive capacity of 809 seats and will encompass the latest in technological advancements in the global entertainment industry.
The island’s largest shopping, leisure and entertainment destination, City Centre Bahrain, was honoured with the 2015 ‘Certificate of Excellence’ by TripAdvisor following exceptional visitors’ reviews and ratings. The international accolade is based on achieving outstanding visitor reviews and ratings on the world’s largest travel site. The TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence can only be earned through consistently great reviews published by members of the public on the web portal. City Centre Bahrain was recognised by hundreds of customers as the best shopping destination in Bahrain. More than 375 visitors rated the destination on the global platform, with 180 visitors rating City Centre Bahrain as ‘Excellent’ which is the highest value available.
AIG to Take Over Takaful Re The Bahrain-based Arab Insurance Group looks set to take ownership of Dubai Islamic reinsurer Takaful Re. AIG already owns 54 per cent of the Dubai company’s shares and is in discussions to purchase the remaining 46 per cent, subject
to regulatory approval. Shareholders in Takaful Re include Dubai Investments, Emirates Funds, Emirates Industrial Bank and the Islamic Development Bank, each holding a 10 per cent stake.
USD30-million Shopping Mall for Janabiya Work is underway on a new USD$30-million shopping mall, which will house retail outlets, a supermarket and restaurants. The mall, in Janabiya, is being built on an 86,000sq/ft plot, according to a report in the Gulf Daily News. In a first for Bahrain it will feature a landscaped garden courtyard with water features surrounded by dining outlets. The retail project is being funded by Kuwait Finance House through First Bahrain Real Estate Development Company, designed by Sanad Engineering and built by Almoayyed Contracting Group.
Flight Discounts from KFH In a boost for travellers, Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain (KFH-Bahrain) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with national carrier Gulf Air, giving KFH-Bahrain credit card holders discounts when they buy travel tickets through gulfair.com. Savings of 10 per cent are available on seats in both business and economy classes in a move that is said to complement the airline’s existing Falcon Flyer loyalty programme. 128 August 2015
Abdulkarim Joins MasterCard Credit card giant MasterCard has appointed Khaled Abdulkarim as the country manager for Bahrain. He joins the company with 13 years of experience and an extensive track record in the banking industry having previously been head of the retail credit and card centre at Ithmaar Bank and also product manager at Khaleeji Commercial Bank. In his new role, Abdulkarim will focus on developing new relationships and enhancing MasterCard’s existing engagement with stakeholders in the country. www.bahrainthismonth.com
winwin Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.
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To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.
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What is Bahrain Summer Festival’s mascot called? ___________________________
HINT: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH.
What is the name of the Japanese street dance troupe which will be performing at the Bahrain Summer Festival this month? ___________________________
Bahrain This Month received 68 entries last month, 64 of which answered all the questions correctly. Congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners:
Which operatic film will be screened at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art on August 16? ___________________________
Who got it right?
Winner : Joeven Tulabing Second Place : Sarah Joy Dorado Third Place : Rufina Villagonzalo
Last month’s solutions 1. Mercedes-Benz 2. Paul Yates 3. Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
What car did Charlie Holding test drive this month? ___________________________
7. Salam Neighbor
Which of the Kingdom’s leading dealerships has completed the handover of six sophisticated motorcycles to the Ministry of Interior? ___________________________ Name the new band playing in Ibrida. ___________________________
9
What is Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s singing competition called? ___________________________
10
Where is the new Costa Coffee Metro store located?
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zaytzaytoon advert-125mm height x width 191mm.pdf
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What is the name of Barney’s cousin? ___________________________
How much do customers have to put as a down payment in order to drive home in a new Mercedes-Benz this month? ___________________________
This is a fun game for all readers. Each of these pictures is taken from advertisements in this issue of BAHRAIN THIS MONTH. All you have to do is identify the ad and mark your answer below each ad clipping. So test your observation skills, and you may be a winner!
MY
1.
CY
CMY
K
4. Wednesdays 5. Bayti 6. #SpreadKindness 8. September 2014 9. VIVA 10. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful
2. Ad Seek 1. Bahrain Duty Free 2. HSBC 3. Bahrain Development Bank Group 4. American Beds
Name:
Address:
3.
Telephone:
Email:
CPR:
Entry deadline is every 15th of the month. The winner will be selected at random. Please include your full name, CPR number, address and telephone number, and mail to: Win Win, Bahrain This Month, PO Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.
4. August 2015 129
tarotscope
LEO
July 21 – August 21 Are you feeling a little insecure in a relationship this month? Not getting as much attention as you used to? Well, help is at hand in the form of a right royal tantrum which is exactly what many of you will be throwing before August is out. Your partner is a hardheaded individual and it seems he or she needs to be reminded of just what a catch you are. It’s about time you felt like you were being made a fuss of again. There is nothing wrong with someone spoiling you a little now and again. Card of the Month — Six of Swords For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk
VIRGO August 22 – September 21 At the moment, the biggest thing on your mind is a new relationship and it has to be said, after a series of disappointments, this latest romance could prove to be a refreshing change and hold a great deal of promise for the future. Just don’t hold back too much because the last thing you want to do is seem disinterested. By all means play it cool, but remember to have fun at the same time! On the work front, a task you left unfinished could come back to haunt you and you would be wise to own up to the error and try to fix the problem rather than sweep it under the carpet. Card of the Month — The Magician
LIBRA September 22 – October 21 Trying to work out what is going on in your head can often be a frustrating endeavour and many have attempted but failed to get a substantial handle on the twisted logic you employ in negotiating every day life. This month you really have excelled yourself and you will have to call upon the most resourceful side of your nature to escape unscathed from one particularly tricky episode. Best of luck! On the work front an outstanding contract dispute will be finally resolved and you can look forward to a promising return for earlier efforts. Just don’t let this make you complacent! Card of the Month — The Chariot 130 August 2015
SCORPIO October 22 – November 21 Recent time away with a friend or colleague has left you feeling slightly sombre about the future but also quite focused on certain changes you need to employ in your life if you want to make improvements. This might also be a good opportunity to look at the relationship you have with a loved one and see whether you might be able to improve things from your point of view. There’s no sense in denying it; you are not the easiest person to live with at the best of times and a little self-analysis might be the perfect remedy all round. There is a lot you’re missing out on at the moment but you can change that. Card of the Month — The Four of Swords
SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 You have been stretching yourself financially for sometime now and it seems that you have finally arrived at breaking point this month as you cannot put off the inevitable any longer. What you really need is some serious advice and you shouldn’t be afraid to speak to someone about it. There is no sense in bearing this burden alone and trying to sweep the problem under the carpet is not going to solve anything. The sooner you get this out in the open and into the hands of someone who can help you, the sooner you can rest easy once again and bring a little peace of mind back into your life. Card of the Month — The Moon
CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 If you feel like you’ve been banging your head against a brick wall without much result when it comes to a tricky issue at work then perhaps you need to take a step back and assess the situation from a better vantage point. There is no doubting your ability and enthusiasm for your job but on occasions you tend to become so deeply involved in matters that you lose sight of the “bigger picture”. Perhaps approaching one of your superiors might be the best move you can make at the moment. Card of the Month — The Lovers
AQUARIUS January 21 – February 20 No matter how hard you try you cannot seem to free your thoughts away from a particular person with whom you still remain quite besotted, even though in your more logical moments you know them to be completely unattainable. So why persist with these idle, pointless thoughts? There are more pressing matters at home that you should be focusing on rather than fruitless distractions. Something is happening with a loved one right under your nose that could escalate in a most alarming fashion if you do not act quickly enough to deal with it. Card of the Month — The Two of Pentacles
PISCES February 21 – March 20 If anyone ever needed a kick up the “back-side” it was your sign this month as your fall into complacency has seen you sinking to new depths of laziness. Well, don’t think it’s gone by unnoticed because there are people out there who are starting to get very frustrated by you wasting your potential. If you are honest with yourself there clearly is an issue here that you need to address. Something is suffocating your natural talent to succeed and only you know what it is. No matter how hard it might be to do, you have to climb out of this negative patch and get back on course: going forwards at great speed is what you do best. Card of the Month — The Ten of Wands www.bahrainthismonth.com
advertisers index ARIES March 21 – April 20 You are currently experiencing one of the most unexpected highs of your life and much of this has to do with the development of a relationship that has moved on in quite a positive way for you over the course of the last few weeks. Your initial doubts and fears have been alleviated to a certain extent although you remain anxious about the future and will continue to do so until you have secured a more solid commitment from the person concerned. Just try and stay patient because forcing the issue along could hurt matters more than you realize. Card of the Month — King of Pentacles
You are usually quite a controlled individual when it comes to your emotions but something is going to unsettle you over the next few weeks and you will find yourself in quite an agitated mood over a relationship. However, this is only half the problem because there is also another person whom you have become quite close to who is complicating matters even further. Before you find yourself running around in circles and chasing your tail, go and speak to the one individual in your life who can help you at times like this. Card of the Month — Ace of Pentacles
GEMINI May 21 – June 20 After a really tough month, you are now slowly learning to settle into a new life and whilst the prospect had initially seemed a daunting one, things are slowly proving to be a lot easier than you had first imagined. Much has to do with getting the balance right and you seem to have hit your stride at exactly the right time. On the relationship front, you could be getting used to life without a particular person in your close circle any longer and that could be the biggest hurdle you have to overcome. Card of the Month — Nine of Wands
CANCER June 21 – July 20 Life in general is about to change in a very big way for you this month and although you could have a few last minute doubts and fears, your own personal feelings will be that you have made the right choice in what you are doing. Others may not agree but you will still have to move with what you feel best so don’t be put off by anything negative you hear – either first hand or on the gossip grapevine! Financially things may be a little tight to start with but it will all be worthwhile in the end. Card of the Month — Three of Cups
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Mila Kunis
FAMOUS LEO THIS MONTH Pres. Barack Obama
Motoring
Aeropostale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Landmark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Madre & Padre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 PUMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3 Sketchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes-Benz) . . . 89 Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . 29, IBC Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC
Financial Institutions Bahrain Development Bank . . . . . . . 124 HSBC Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 State Bank of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Home & Furnishing
TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20
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Fashion & Footwear
American Beds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Hotels & Serviced Residences Crowne Plaza Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 PGS Property Management Co. (Vedanta Business Hotel) . . . . . . . . . . 68 Premier Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Ramee Baisan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Ramee California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Ramee International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Ramee Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Sheraton Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Swiss Belhotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The Gulf Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Jewellery & Watches Ambassador Stores (Seiko) . . . . . . . . 63 Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . 6 Asia Jewellers (Van Cleef & Arpels) . 4 Sharif Group (Ferre Milano) . . . . . . . . 13 Watch Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Others Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . 113 AMA School of Basic Education . . . . . 1 Bahrain Cinema Company . . . . . . . . . 64 Bahrain City Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Intercol:IAA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 K Home & Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Life Insurance Corp. (International) . 69 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 59 Mega Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 PGS Property Management Co. (Al Tawfeek Maintenance Services) . . . 67 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Syed Junaid Alam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 The Raymond Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Yateem Airconditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Restaurants & Cafés Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Costa Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant . . . . . 75 Lumee Street Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 The Yellow Chilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Zayt Zaytoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Medical & Dental Services Telecommunications Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 34 Ibn Rushud Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Viva . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC
BTM retail sales outlets BAHRAIN THIS MONTH, your guide to a great way of life, is available at the following selected outlets:
● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets
● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai ● Other leading Cold Stores and
News Stands 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 National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955. August 2015 131
Last word
The Old Man’s Rant ... GEG HOPKINS Bless buxomly politically correct good old US of A which still celebrates experience and allows the very old to keep their jobs until they drop. Veteran radio broadcasters are propped up daily and TV announcers might get a cosmetic surgery allowance, unlike the BBC who keep the ancient on for other reasons Jimmy; ask Rolf. Fly any American airline and you’ll be forgiven for thinking Cayetana Fitz is pushing the trolley. Flying to Kuwait recently, there was a party atmosphere on board as the youngest member of the crew celebrated her 70th birthday. Passengers were taught CPR in case they needed to resuscitate the crew and all died happily ever after. Working relics maybe, but it makes us proud! This column has previously covered the notion that some upstarts in today’s political arena across Britain and Europe wish to intangibly exterminate old people. It is not some organised secret plot to gas us all or anything like that (allegedly), but a desire to put us out to pasture in that great abstract concentration camp in the void by removing our vote and critique. The Village of the Damned is not a patch on the reality and the older among us are shocked at the controlled, adverse, fascist liberalism, which has subliminally besieged nations in the last few decades, with none now allowed to question or, dare say, mock it humorously or otherwise. Let’s consider all things deemed ‘offensive’ nowadays – cultural stabs unacceptable, Irish jokes no longer kosher, gay jokes criminal. This generation of weirdo Fabians now curtailing society’s freedoms and gagging every utterance have not as yet condemned Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, claiming it offensive to infertile women or impotent men who have no kids, but it is coming. Old folk are still good for a hit, but there really are only two mainstream avenues of humour, one is sexual or crude, the other considered racist. Grandma has no idea what you are talking about when you tell a dirty joke, if you even dare, while Granddad’s still trying to lip read. Young people have a burning question for senior citizens and that is, “Do you still do it?” Well, go ahead and ask any old couple if they have sexual relations and the most likely response would be; “I think we do, but we haven’t heard from them in years, they are probably dead;” like the gist of the question. Feigned pseudo offence is now endemic for 132 August 2015
Cayetana Fitz
the smallest slight. Gladly, Bahrainis couldn’t give a rat’s nipple and tell some crackers. With culture and language entwined, oddly, some large nations appear to be near humourless. Nonetheless, appeasement will win the day and humour will be removed from society. With its rapidly changing façade, one suspects Canada will be the first without realising it, dismissing the notion that Germany has already acquired such sophistication. These days the ancient among us are confused when pre-emptive apologies spew forth before someone tells a joke. Racist jibe is endemic across cultures but Fabians choose denial. Societies can still legally tell jokes about themselves, but many refute jibes from others because that is considered ‘racist’ - never mind the only difference being the post code. Some jibes are hilarious but old codgers over 70 don’t understand. Ask your granddad why he should be very nervous of a white man in prison; he’d just look dumfounded at you. “So why?” “Well you know for sure he did it!” Such sarcasm is still legal but not if the other way around. But then, it wouldn’t be funny would it?
More than half the world is not so liberal and as much as the BBC and its clones have pushed it down our throats so to speak, still older folk don’t refer to homosexuals as being ‘gay’; this hijacked word used in this context is double Dutch to them, so old Joe inadvertently and ‘innocently’ breaks the law by casually introducing his gay fried as being ‘batty’ or a ‘jobby jabber’. Likewise, with so many ‘fashionably outted’ lesbians in parliaments across Europe and Britain, and indeed now heading up big industry, sporting a Windsor knot, heaven forbid a Green Party member peddling her way to work and being referred to as a ‘dyke on a bike’. That would surely mean prison, albeit it being said in blissful ignorance. Still, reminiscing the old, now banned, Alf Garnet days, is all one has really when age cripples, because nothing is ever going to get physically better and utopia is pure fantasy as with sexual prowess. A wife asking her husband to be romantic again and to give her those old love bites of ownership she once protested were unsightly — so hubby agrees and goes to the bathroom to get his teeth. www.bahrainthismonth.com