Bahrain This Month - February 2012

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

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February 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 2 www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Lover’s Tale

Romeo and Juliet Shakespeare 4 Kidz

Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al A’ali Mall Art Fest Amwaj Marina Market Annual Telecom Review

HAPPENINGS ­ ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

first LTE launch in Bahrain

LTE VIVA is proud to be the first telecom company in Bahrain to introduce 4G LTE, the latest technological evolution in broadband.

Live every moment with the fastest broadband provider in the Kingdom.

Issue 174

Contents February 2012 Cover Story:

40 A Lover’s Tale Romeo and Juliet is the quintessential love story, set in Verona, in what is now modern-day Italy. Its appeal remains

40

in the constancy of the subject matter.

Happenings: Bahrain This Month reviews events happening around town during the month of February 2012:

23

26

23 Cultural Extravaganza: Get set for the Spring of Culture 28 Art Fest: Al A’ali Shopping Complex in arts makeover 30 A British Classic: It’s all about Annie 34 Through Modern Eyes: Inspired by the past 40 A Tale Foretold: Shakespeare 4 kidz is back in town 42 Bolting Ahead: Horse riding at Twin Palms 23-42 Calendar: Events during February

Spotlight:

54 An Exercise in Reality Engaging in voluntary work is often an extremely liberating experience, as Dr Mohamed Shahda recently discovered on a

58

54

visit to a refugee camp in Somalia.

Business:

57 An Industry Insight One of the largest business exhibitions, Gulf Industry Fair, returns this month, showcasing a range of products and services from a multitude of business sectors.

60

81 Bystander At BTM we parlayed our way into a host of parties to celebrate the start of 2012, from the Crowne Plaza to Dublin, from the Mövenpick to JJ’s Irish Restaurant. We also sampled the Indian delights at Yellow Chilli, the new lounge bar at the Kempinski Hotel and the latest car launch from Zayani Motors. How could we possibly miss the air show, the highlight of the past month?

58 Igniting Innovation The name of this new organisation is impressive — The Firm. The objective is quite simple, to nurture new businesses through intrapreneuring.

60 Poised for Growth It is not just the insurance market that offers growth opportunities for businesses in the Kingdom, says Mahmoud Al Soufi. But it’s time for local businesses to think big.

BTM February 2012 5

Issue 174

Contents February 2012 2012 Telecom Review:

63 It’s All About Speed We will soon be able to access the Internet and engage in

63

social media activities at the same speeds as others around the world, courtesy of LTE and 4G.

2012 SME Review:

73 Finessing the Opportunity Life for a new business is tough at the best of times; securing the financing to kick-start an idea is often no less important than finding the right marketing strategy.

Downtime:

105

98

77 Extremely Talented: Sandra Bullock on the up 78 Gadgets: Bringing back yesteryears 81 Music: Pretty bulls in red 82 Computer Games: Shooting is all the rage 83 DVDs: Guarding ideas 84 Websites: Letters of learning 85 Movies: Iron lady in the shadows 86 Sat TV: Angry boys and real steel

Motoring: 97 Re-engineering a Master: Porsche Carrera S 98 Test Drive: McLaren MP4-12C 99 Showcase: MINI Roadster

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134

Dining: 105 Valentine’s Day: Where to spend the evening 106 Happenings: Where to dine this month 108 Showcase: Trader Vic’s 117 Restaurant Listing: Find your ideal venue

After Dark: 34

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141 142 143 144

WIN WIN Tarotscope AD Index Last word

119 Music from the Heavens: Albert L at Bushido 120 Happenings: Where to be seen this month 122 Showcase: Bedrock 125 Venue Listing: The ‘in’ places to be

Showcase: 129 What’s New: Sweet cheeks 150 Marketplace: Latest products and services BTM February 2012 7

1st March - 16th april 2012

Tom Tom crew

16th - 17th March ArAd fort the pulsing energy of hip-hop meets the raw physicality of acrobatics in an astounding mash-up of gravity-defying manoeuvres, astonishing beat-boxing, improbable contortion and dynamic drumming. having thrilled audiences through the UK, Europe, the Us and canada, tom tom crew brings their unique brand of urban acrobatics to Bahrain’s audience. a show where skill and athleticism meet urban artistry.

+973 3990 0630

The team

Bahrain This Month February 2012

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Publishing Director David M. Robertson Editorial queries: editor@redhousemarketing.com Editorial Consultant Dr. Paul Balles Assistant Editors Alison Coldridge Elma Bartholomew

Dear Readers,

Staff Writer Maryam Toorani Contributors James Claire (dining)

The telecommunications industry, which we feature this month, has always been one that has fascinated me. Highly competitive, it has to be a great business in which to work with its constant innovation and the pervasive impact that it can have on our lives.

The ability of this industry to do just that was brought home to me by a couple of ‘events’ over the past month. At a dinner party my host commented that his young son had stopped asking to see his friend’s toys when visiting his house; he was now asking to see his iPad! During the course of a recent meeting, the client’s phone rang; it was his five-year-old calling to have a chat on his mobile. She had now learnt how to dial his number. It got me thinking; 15 years ago had my elder daughter had the same access to mobile phones as we do today, how different our lives would have been. The thought of what might have been is unimaginable!

In this issue we also look at small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The past year has certainly been a challenge; a key issue for these businesses has always been to migrate from a simple sales process to one that incorporates a proper marketing strategy.

As we ate dinner at the aforementioned party, a mesmeric and monotonous ‘dink’, ‘dink’ sound started to emanate from upstairs. My host’s son had sneaked an iPad into his bedroom and was playing a LEGO app under his bedcovers!

Of course, this ubiquitous building-brick company, years ago on the brink of extinction, is now on a winning streak from a truly inspired marketing plan. No longer do they target just children. Instead, branded versions of LEGO sets from some of the most successful films ever, such as Stars Wars, are now being devoured by adult males. Keen to ensure that they have anything and everything associated with their favourite ‘flick’, LEGO has been able to tap into a brand new market segment.

Stories and examples such as these can only offer us hope for the future.

Mahmoud Al Soufi, interviewed in our business section, puts it this way, “.. enterprises need to think out of the box.”

As our happenings pages demonstrate, there is plenty to do around town this month, and to enjoy the great way of life the Kingdom has to offer.

Bystander Editor Anil Ravi Shankar Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Dalal Al-Sabbagh, Romeo San Miguel, Rodolfo A. Reyes Jr. Staff Photographers Shankar Kunhambu, Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Sales Manager Mayukh Majumdar Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos Circulation Manager Fawaz Al Balooshi Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Rafeeq Mohammed, Gopal Arul Kumar, Epegenio Tempra Jr. Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

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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 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.

Cover

Cover Picture: A lover’s tale — Romeo and Juliet.

• Views expressed in this magazine by journalists

and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month.

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

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

BD 2.000 (SR 20)

February 2012 ~ Vol. 16 ~ Issue 2

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

A Lover’s Tale

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

Romeo and Juliet Shakespeare 4 Kidz

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

Featured This Month: www.bahrainthismonth.com

Al A’ali Mall Art Fest Amwaj Marina Market Annual Telecom Review

HAPPENINGS ~ DINING ~ ARTS SCENE ~ CLUBS & SPORTS ~ KIDS’ EVENTS ~ AFTER DARK ~ SAT TV

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BTM February 2012 9

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain International Air Show 2012 His Majesty King Hamad officially opened the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS 2012) at Sakhir Air Base held last month. His Majesty also went through the trade area, and visited chalets of participating companies. His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, also attended the event, along with dignitaries, VIPs and thousands of visitors

His Majesty King Hamad being welcomed by Bahrain Air staff members at the event

His Majesty King Hamad at the Batelco chalet with Batelco chairman Shaikh Hamad Bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, 3rd from left, Shaikh Mohammed Bin Isa Al Khalifa, 2nd from left, Batelco board director Ali Engineer, 4th from left, Batelco chief executive Bahrain Rashid Abdulla 5th from left, & Batelco Group GM Media Relations Ahmed Al Janahi, 1st from left

Captain Ibrahim Al Hamer, Bahrain Air Managing Director, in conversation with journalists at the Bahrain Air chalet

Khalid, Mohammed & Isa

Naeem with Mr & Mrs Frank Ryde

Mohammed, Rashid & Monte

10 February 2012 BTM

His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa & HE Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister tour the show

HE Captain Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Civil Aviation Affairs Under-Secretary, 3rd from left with His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and the Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on the right, with VIP guests touring the Bahrain International Air Show

HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamed Al Khalifa with visitors and guests at the Bahrain International Air Show

Naeem Mahamoor & Richard Nuttall

Badriya & Marie

Anita, Raihana & Anusha

Muneera & Fatima

Sabika & Manal

Hussain

Capt Jonathan & Capt John

HE Shaikh Daij bin Salman Al Khalifa

Yasmin & Manal

Faisal & Hisham

bystanderthismonth

Crowne Plaza New Year's Eve Ball The Crowne Plaza held a sensational 1001 Arabian Nights style party at the hotel's Bahrain Conference Centre. Guests enjoyed an evening of fine food, dancing and excitement to bring in the New Year

Pascal Eggerstedt & Ebrahim Kooheji

Jasmine, Dorsa & Kaitlynn

Samantha & Nadine

Abbie & Katie

John, Wendy & John

Rosalie & friends

12 February 2012 BTM

Pascal & Viera

Abdullah & Harima

Karim & Yasra

Ali, Janessa, Chandran, Ebrahim, Marivic, Ruth & Ameer

Lisa & Dina

Alex & Olivia

Emma

Domenico, Paola, Patricia & Kais

Sorcha, Ann Marie & Jasmine

Iro, Ebrahim & Ron

Harry & June

Gillie & Peter

Ron, Iro, Mireille, John & Badia

Maria

Arnie & Mayz

Molly & Ailbhe

Lara & Jana

bystanderthismonth

Zayani Motors Showroom Launch Hamid Al Zayani, Zayani Motors chairman and Nawaf Al Zayani, Zayani Motors managing director, on behalf of the company, held a reception to celebrate the launch of the new Zayani Motors Truck & Bus showroom at the Mitsubishi FUSO Showroom located next to Zayani Motors, Ma'ameer

Kai-Uwe Seidenfuss, Dr Albert X. Kirchman, Hamid Al Zayani & Nawaf Al Zayani

Kai-Uwe, Dr Albert, HE Tomoko Sumi, Japanese Ambassador, Khalid Al Zayani, Mohammed Kooheji & HE Shaikh Azzam Mubarak Al Sabah, Kuwaiti Ambassador

Cader, Mohammed, Mohammed & George

Anoop Kewalram & Nabeel Ajoor

Kumar & Anand

Hussain & Jamal

14 February 2012 BTM

Nawaf Al Zayani

Rashid & Khalid Al Zayani

Mohammed Salahuddin

Nawar, Seddiqa, Layla, Zahra, Safa & Noor

Rajesh, Raffas & Jamshid

Joseph, Hussain, Sayed & Jamal

Azmiya, Safiya & Marwa

Zahra, Zahraa & Sana

Hanya & Nada

Fatema, Layla & Adele

George with Mohammed Zaki

Mirza

Jassim bin Mohammed

bystanderthismonth

DHL Reception To Mark Bahrain's National Day DHL hosted an exclusive musical evening at the Gulf Hotel’s Convention Centre to celebrate Bahrain’s National Day. The event was attended by members of the ruling family, diplomats, VIPs and by DHL's major clients in Bahrain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Eman & Salwa

HE Capt Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs & Shaikh Ahmed

Nejib with Abir Ali

Jassim Al Zayani

Daby, Wahid, Khalid & Eman

Hamid Al Zayani, Afnan Al Zayani, HE Nabeel Al Hamer & Anan Kanoo

Maya, Hisham & Suha

Dr Umran & Dr Jihan Al Umran

Hala, Nessrin & Nancy

Souda, Najwa, David, Shaima, Fawaz & Bless

Dr Dhafer Al Umran & Rodolphe

Fayzeh, Ola & Nazly

16 February 2012 BTM

Noor Sulaiman & Shaikh Ahmed bin Ali Al Khalifa

Rafik & Maged

Kiki & Maher

Noor Sulaiman & Sameer Al Judiabi

Rihab & Noor

Mohammed Sabra & Najwa Raslan

Tarek, Maya & Yulia

Mr Al Sayas & Mr Al Banki

Fadi & Nisrin

Nariman

bystanderthismonth

Bangladesh Festival 2011 The Bangladeshi Embassy in association with the Bangladesh School Bahrain and the Bangladeshi community organised the Bangladesh Festival 2011 to celebrate the Victory Day of Bangladesh and the National Day of Bahrain. The event was held at the Bangladesh Embassy in Ghufool

Reshmi & Aklima

Krish, Salman & Faisal

Bithy, Antara, Aysha, Sanjana & Afra

Jassim & Kamal

Ghulam, Shiraz, Saleem & Nazurul

18 February 2012 BTM

Mehdi Hasan, Thatree & Mohammed

Masumbilla & Hassan

Radia, Nadia & Nasreen

Raju & Khalid

Sumaya, Nishat & Abul

Noyon, Nadeem & Fahad

Nadia & Nahid

Araful, Rahal & Pranto

Fareeda, Nandina & Nehal

Nasima, Sadia & Sapna

Abul Kassim

Rawda

Nayan, Nawaz, Mojub & Yahir

Arun, Imam & Mohammed

Jahangir, Gazi, Reza, Mizan, Azad, & Basha

Shahid & Kalam

Musthafa

bystanderthismonth

Pregith & Presita Wedding Reception Pappan (K.N. Padmanabhan) and Geetha Padmanabhan hosted a wedding reception for their son Pregith & wife Mamta and their daughter Presita & husband Shiv at the Al Taj Ballroom, Sheraton Hotel, Bahrain, last month

Shiv, Presita, Mamta & Pregith

Mohan Das, Ganga, Jamuna & Ramachandran

Shreya, Sreeja & Ramesh

Priya, Malayalam movie star Suresh Gopi & Dr Sreekumar

Athul, Mini, Benny & George

Praveen, Papita, Sabita, Mamta, Pregith, Presita & Shiv

Maya, Tony, Praveen, Rahul & Praveen

Papita, Dearbhla & Sabita

20 February 2012 BTM

Geetha, Pappan, Pregith & Mamta

Pappan, Abdulla Juma & Mohan Das

Sadiq Dawani & Pappan

Pradeep, Pregith, Mani & DJ Ibbi

Pappan, Mark & El

Shiv, Presita, Dr Hanan, Mamta & Pregith

Shantharam & Ashalatha

Mamta & Tina

Usha, Sneha & Shankar

Valsala & Unnikrishnan

Sasi, Jose & John

bystanderthismonth

Golden Tulip New Year's Eve Party The Golden Tulip Bahrain held a fun filled Red Ball New Year's Eve party at the hotel's Gilgamesh Ballroom.

Guests enjoyed an evening of fine food, dancing and excitement to bring in 2012 Monica, Leni, Michel, Pascal & Denise

Ian & Graham

Martha & Greg Kidizzle, Lilo, Barbara & Matilda

Syika, Tanya & Zoia

Paul, Will & Hani

Jessica, Becky & Georgia

Amy & Emily

Martin & Amy

Rachael, Adam & Sofia

Kim & Vicky

Dave & Charlie

Matthias & Claudia

Briony

Myra & Gem

Golden Tulip New Christmas Lunch There were a number of guests who enjoyed a tradional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings at the hotel's Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant last month

Michel, Olivier & Sam

Sammy, Susan, Rommel & Ryan

22 February 2012 BTM

Lucienne, JB & Isa

Jack, Ace & Paul

Thibault, Nicolas & Gyorgyi

Sanya & Michael

Hannah, Sam & John

happeningsthismonth When? March 1-April 23 | Event? Spring of Culture | Venue? Various venues throughout Bahrain

Knuffle Bunny

A Cultural Extravaganza

World days

Ignite your inner artistic fever with the events taking place at the Spring of Culture festival. Indulge in theatre, art, poetry, dance and many other visuallyspectacular performances.

When? February 4 Event? Cancer day Consider how you can help those affected by this common disease.

Next month will signal the arrival of the 7th Spring of Culture festival in Bahrain, complete with a rich and diverse program that promises to excite people of all ages. This year’s festival will get you out and about and involved in the arts with more than 35 events taking place, each catering for different tastes.

Included within the programme are intellectual seminars and performances such as singing, theatre, dance, visual arts, from regional and global artists and groups.

One of the festival’s primary programmes is in education. A number of international groups will be performing and conducting workshops for children, teachers and parents, including acts such as Dan Zanes & Friends, Tom Tom Crew and Tap Dogs. These educational events are all free, but places do need to be reserved in advance.

One visiting performance is Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, which is based upon a popular American picture book and has been written for the stage by the same author, Mo Willems. “The story is highly engaging, for children aged three upwards, and captures simple and essential truths. An everyday incident is used and expanded into a lesson,” explains the Knuffle Bunny team. “We believe that the arts are important to the development of well-rounded and creative Also this month

individuals in today’s global society. It gives children and young people a sense of their own particular culture as well as global culture. With a play, children can imagine themselves on the stage, and it becomes a way of looking at the world in a different way,” the team continues.

“We received an invitation from the Spring of Culture organisers and the team instantly recognised it would be great for all concerned. We hope that the children, teachers and parents enjoy the show as much as American audiences have,” they explain. Knuffle Bunny has been running since May 2010, a Kennedy Centre commission and has since toured throughout America and received positive feedback.

“We will also be participating in the education programme at the festival by leading workshops for young people and teachers to spread ideas and teaching methods about the arts,” outlines the team.

The festival is being organised this year by The Economic Development Board in joint collaboration with Sheikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research, The Ministry of Culture, Albareh Art Gallery and Al Riwaq Art Space. The festival will support local charities and groups within the community programme, in particular by supporting orphaned and disabled children in Bahrain. They will be offered tickets to the shows or will be visited by the performers and organisers. The entire festival has also been created to be as ‘green’ as possible, with a huge emphasis on being environmentally friendly wherever possible.

E Call 39 900-630 or visit www.springofculture.org.

Celebrate the world days in style this February.

When? February 11 Event? Day of the sick Do a good deed for someone you know who isn’t well.

When? February 12 Event? Darwin day Celebrate the father of evolution by remembering his contributions to science.

When? February 14 Event? Valentine’s Day Here’s your chance to tell your loved ones that you love them!

When? February 20 Event? Social Justice day Decide what you can do to help those with no rights or power.

When? February 21 Event? Mother language day Return to your roots and speak your birth language all day.

When? February 22 Event? Inconvenience yourself day Put yourself out slightly to help someone else have a better day.

34 x Arts & Culture - 38 x Clubs & Societies - 40 x Teens & Kids - 42 x Sports & Recreation

BTM February 2011 23

happeningsthismonth When? Throughout February | Event? Manama Capital of Arab Culture | Venue? Various

Building the Future

When? February 2-4 Event? Musical Venue? The British Club Children take to the stage for a all-singing all-dancing production of Annie.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? February 4 Event? Amwaj Marina Market Venue? Amwaj Islands Shop outdoors with stalls packed with food and all kinds of consumer goods.

E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607.

When? February 10 Event? Speed weekend Venue? BIC Experience the best regional racing in addition to family activities.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? February 10 and 11 Event? Diva Festival Venue? Amwaj Islands Lagoon Enjoy browsing the vendors’ products in the great outdoors.

E Call 36 226-440.

When? February 17-21 Event? Jikiden Reiki lessons Venue? Bahrain Wellness Centre A renowned guru teaches Japanese treatment method for body and mind.

E Email info@consciousconnections.com.

When? February 26 Event? Leadership seminar Venue? BIHR Renowned leadership expert Robin Sharma hosts the half-day event.

E Call 36 048-699 or 39 986-580.

24 February 2012 BTM

When? February 25 | Event? Reading event | Venue? Central Hall, Al A’ali Shopping Complex

When? February 6 and 7 Event? Workshop Venue? Adliya Learn how to ‘Empower Thyself’ and regain power over your own life.

E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607.

As the chosen place this year for UNESCO’s cultural capital programme, Manama continues the initiative this month with a celebration of architecture. Throughout February, a number of diverse events will be held in various locations to encourage Bahrain residents and visitors to gather an understanding and appreciation of architecture. A specially erected pavilion in Bab Al Bahrain Square will be home to the majority of the month’s events.

The month kicks off with an exhibition opening on February 7 at the National Museum, followed by the opening of the newlyrenovated Suq Al Qatssariya in Muharraq to be held on February 11. Next is the launching of the exhibition for the Bab Al Bahrain open ideas competition along with the announcement of the competition winner.

February 16-18 plays host to a number of talks and discussions from architectural experts held in the pavillion, followed by a workshop led by urban planners and architects on February 24-25.

Two screenings are also open to all throughout the month.

The first, on February 20 will be a showing of Hamad and the Pirates, a Bahrain-filmed production about a pearl diver. A documentary titled Home about the diversity of life on Earth will be screened on February 27.

To complete the month’s schedule is a talk by Rem Koolhaas, a Pritzker prize-winning architect, on February 28.

E Call 17 298-712.

Story Time If you’re keen for your child to show more interest in literature, take them along to a reading event this month. The English Project at the British Council is organising the second community event as part of the ‘Kids Read’ on Saturday 25 February from 10am-2pm.

The project is planned and delivered by British Council, sponsored by HSBC and implemented at six governmental primary schools. The event provides the opportunity for young learners aged between 5-12 to listen to stories in English and be involved in educational activities. Parents are also invited to participate in the event to share this lively experience with their kids. There will be activities for both young learners and parents. Admission to the event is free.

E Call 17 266-166.

When? February 2-4 | Event? Musical | Venue? The British Club

When? Throughout February Event? Quran contest Venue? N/A Memorise, recite and interpret the Quran in your own way.

E Call 17 812-815.

Family Musical It’s claimed that children and animals are hardest to deal with in theatre and Annie uses both. Five months have been spent getting the near-50 cast members — the majority are children — into shape to reproduce this classic musical.

A tremendous amount of work has gone into the music, set design and costumes (each child has had their own costume made, and some have two or three changes) and the stars of the show, who vary between six and 17 years-of-age, are all part of the group MASK (Music and Stage for Kids).

The musical will be staged over three days at the British Club and tickets can be purchased from Alosra in Saar, The British School of Bahrain and The British Club.

E Call 17 728-245.

Tel. 17.564444 - Fax. 17.564466 email: phodecor@batelco.com.bh Seef district, facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg.

happeningsthismonth When? April 17-19 | Event? Health and Wellness Expo | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre

A Healthier World Two exhibitions in April are designed to create and maintain a healthy mindset and a good physical condition throughout the year.

26 February 2012 BTM

The Health and Wellness Expo is set to be a major three-day spectacle with industry experts shedding light on nutrition and general well-being. The exhibition aims to promote holistic lifestyle practices that will make a positive difference in your day-to-day living. Simply put, the goal of the event is to increase awareness for GCC residents on how to live a good and healthy life and to give industry professionals a platform to achieve maximum exposure for their brands, gain networking opportunities and increase revenue.

This year’s show will feature interesting seminars on healthy eating and lifestyle changes, alongside activities for the kids, healthy cooking demonstrations and live sports and fitness shows. Plus, don’t forget there will be a massage and a beauty zone — for those of you who wish to get relaxed and made over!

Last year’s event saw international and regional exhibitors participate including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand and Cyprus with a range of buyers, retailers, importers, exporters, distributors and doctors of all sectors. An even wider range of exhibitors are expected this time ranging from the top hospitals and heath care facilities to hotels and the best in fitness and spa centres. The products and services exhibited will include those of natural skincare products, aroma treatments, health care diets and products, fitness and exercise and much more.

Aside from the main stage and demonstration area, exhibition-goers can also participate in the health screening activities, enjoy a number of healthy food samplings at live cooking stations and also take part in the event’s competitions to win a spa weekends for two. Industry professionals on the other hand can meet fellow industry colleagues and suppliers, attend workshops, generate new leads for their businesses, consolidate business connections, demonstrate their products and launch new ones.

Food and Hospitality Expo The Food and Hospitality Expo will be held simultaneously with the Health and Wellness exhibition; organisers are expecting to attract visitors from all over the region. Gulf Air will be the official carrier, while Tamkeen will be the event’s strategic partner.

The 4th annual Food Expo is the Kingdom’s largest gathering of food, beverage and hospitality industry professionals. The event will bring together an international audience of buyers, retailers, distributors and food and beverage professionals.

This year will also see live cooking stands, with local chefs, and a wide range of activities for the entire family. It will be a great way to learn how to prepare healthy and nutritious meals without too much drama, cost or time. E Call 17 558-894.

happeningsthismonth When? March 7-10 | Event? Exhibition/contest | Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Complex AL A’ALI SHOPPING COMPLEX

Artistically Made A unique and exciting art event will be held next month at Al A’ali Shopping Complex, as the venue plays host to one of the Kingdom’s largest artistic events; Art Fest 2012.

An innovative scheme has been created to bring together talent from across the Kingdom. Art Fest aims to give artists the opportunity to feature their exhibits and expects to showcase artworks from both established and upcoming artists for the public to view and purchase. You will be able to get your hands on a huge variety of pieces, including paintings, sculptures, fashion designs, music, photographs, calligraphy works and even pottery items.

Synonymous with the saying ‘art transcends barriers’, the organisers hope to amalgamate the various different cultures on the island. The objective is to transform the shopping complex into a canvas to create a living gallery with different forms of art that would inspire, captivate and enthral the people who visit the Art Fest. The Art Fest also aims to raise funds through the sale of art by the various artists and donations of up to 20 per cent will be made towards various charitable causes in the country.

In an effort to inspire creative minds, different workshops will be held by renowned artists on all of the four days of the event.

The purpose is to provide expert guidance and teach techniques that will help budding artists in their pursuit of the art and workshops in painting, ceramics, photography, calligraphy and much more will be held.

There will also be a photography contest open for all ages to enter, which will be judged by a panel of experts for the chance to win great prizes. E Call 3 9994-858.

bystanderthismonth

Ferrari Track Day At The BIC The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) played host to a very special motor sports event last month, where Ferrari owners from Bahrain and Kuwait participated in Emozioni in Pista, an annual track event involving a series of driving activities. The event was organised by Euro Motors, the official importer of Ferrari in the Kingdom Bahrain, and AlZayani Trading Company, the official importer of Ferrari in Kuwait

Meher & Maram

On the podium, Bashar, Hussain & Majeed

28 February 2012 BTM

The Pilota instructors - mission accomplished

On the track

Young Ferraristi enthralled

The Ferrai FF on display

Ready to go!

happeningsthismonth When? February 26 | Event? Seminar | Venue? Gulf Convention Centre, Gulf Hotel BAHRAIN INSTITUTE OF HOSPITALITY AND RETAIL

Inspiring Employees World renowned leadership expert Robin Sharma will be in town to inspire those seeking to maximise the performance of their management and staff.

Author of the best-selling book The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, Robin Sharma has worked with over five million employees in 62 countries. This month he is hosting a half-day seminar for Bahrain’s most engaged and proactive leaders, based upon his latest work — Lead Without A Title: Winning Leadership Lessons to Build a Great Organisation.

During the last 15 years, Robin has helped organisations and Fortune 500 companies such as Nike, FedEx, Royal Bank of Scotland, Microsoft, IBM, RIM, Yale University and NASA build their leaders maximum potential. Robin is one of the most widely-read experts of our time, and his 11 leadership books have been published in nearly 70 languages in 60 countries.

“In these uncertain economic times, exceptional leadership is more important than ever — actually it’s your number one competitive advantage. I love to visit the Middle East, with its dynamic, fast evolving and multicultural business environment, it’s a fascinating part of the world and I am very much looking forward to meeting with business leaders from across the region,” says Robin.

Organised by the Bahrain Institute of Hospitality and Retail, the seminar will focus on helping leaders to achieve their highest potential in the challenging business environment faced at this time. Topics will include eight peak performance tactics to achieve world class work in busy times, specific tactics that the best companies do to get even better and the four keys to a high performance team and winning culture.

E Call 36 048-699 or 39 986-580 or visit www.bihr.com.bh.

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Blues Concert At La Fontaine The La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art held a Blues concert featuring international renowned Blues vocialist Dana Gillespie, who was accompanied

by Joachim Palden Joachim Palden & Dana Gillespie

Marion & Claudia

Rebecca & Simon

Shaikha Hind, Shahrazad & Huda

Thilo & Marina

Dr Mariam & Farida

Shahila & Hassan

Koos & Georgia

30 February 2012 BTM

Hesham, Mahmood & Dana

Nada, Fay & Samia

Chris

happeningsthismonth When? February 4 | Event? Amwaj Marina Market | Venue? Amwaj Islands AMWAJ MARINA MARKET

Shop in the Sun It’s almost Valentine’s Day and for those of you looking to buy something unique for that special someone, head down to the Amwaj Marina Market!

Offering visitors a unique shopping experience, the Amwaj Marina Market is now on everyone’s radar. The goods on offer this month include clothing, jewellery, shoes, children’s books, Home Electronics, decorations and even furniture. If you’re on the verge of sprucing up your home, then the assortment of traditional arts and crafts as well as paintings and frames from Sheema frames and National Photo Services are what you need!

Shoppers can also get a bite to eat from Pizza Inn, Tony Luke’s, some fresh falafel or chose from a delicious range of baked goods, Baskin Robins. Savvy dieters can indulge in healthy smoothies and tropical fruits, and Al Ghalia Farm’s organic fruits and vegetables will be available.

The market offers a way to get the most out of the great weather before the temperatures start to rise. Besides the stunning Amwaj Marina views, you can catch performances by Aces Taekwondo School along with complementary boat rides, courtesy of Yamal Boats throughout the day. Kids can enjoy bouncy castle, balloon twister and rides, as well as trying their hand at creativity at the Studio Ceramics stations. Henna and face painting will also be openand pets can be spoilt with treats courtesy of Tails and a photoshoot courtesy of Pet Arabia.

The outdoor markets are scheduled to be held throughout the cooler months on the first Saturday of each month, weather permitting. Stalls are rented out for a competitive price and can be shared. E Call 16 030-605 or 16 030-607.

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Boudoir Lounge Launched At The Kempinski The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel, Bahrain City Centre and Stephen Kaminski, general manager, hosted an exclusive party to launch the hotel's Boudoir Lounge last month

Pooja, Catherine & Hilary

Svetlana & Catherine

Waleed Al Sharif & Ilhame

32 February 2012 BTM

Vivian, Shandra & Marco

Maria & Ibrahim with guests

Gizem & Burak

Ibrahim & Catherine

Maria

Nigel, Annelise & David

Ray & Tony

Khalid Al Amin

happeningsartsculture When? February 5-29 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Albareh Art Gallery

Snake charmers of Jamaa Al Fanaa

Through Modern Eyes Albareh Art Gallery is known for its showcasing of unique and pioneering artists, the latest of which explores interpretations of existing works and places around the world.

Internationally known artist, Mohammed Omar Khalil, will display 15 differing artworks this month at the Albareh Art Gallery. Six of the works follow in the path paved by his previous exhibition “Paolo Uccello, The Battle of San Romano”.

The pieces were created by Mohammed to represent the victory of the Florentine army over the Sienese in 1432 and are an interpretation of works completed originally by a Florentine merchant in 1456.

In addition, he will showcase a series of six artworks on his favourite country, Morocco; two of them on the city of Fes and four works on Marrakesh.

Mohammed is recognisable for drawing inspirations from different and rather eccentric sources; films, books, music, and places he visits. At this exhibition visitors will get a look at his latest artwork, inspired by the film Birdman of Alcatraz. The film is a story of a murderer who was sent to Alcatraz prison and became fascinated by canaries, treating them, breeding them and observing their behaviour.

Born just a few kilometres from Khartoum, Mohammed studied here and later taught at the School of Fine and Applied Arts. He pursued further studies in fresco painting and printmaking in Florence. Later, Mohammed moved to New York where he still lives, works and teaches.

34 February 2012 BTM

Having attained worldwide recognition, the artist’s works now grace many collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris; Jordanian National Museum, Amman; Brooklyn Museum, New York; and the Museum of Modern Art, Baghdad.

The exhibition will run Saturday to Thursday from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm.

A start for art As part of their latest initiative, the Albareh Art Gallery has launched an e-newsletter titled ABCAD (Albareh Centre for Art, Design and Visual Culture).

The concept is the brainchild of founders Hayfa Al Jishi, Hazem Taha Hussein and Jamal Al Yousif and manifests the ideas of ‘Remix, Redesign and Reassemble’. The newsletter will be distributed on a monthly basis, highlighting the gallery’s upcoming events and artists’ news.

“ABCAD will focus on amalgamating the old with the new, the local with the international and channelling the creativity within to produce non-banal artworks that are creative and that fit within the global philosophy of today,” explains Bisan Saleh.

The project will also offer creative programs for businesses to help them achieve their corporate social responsibility targets by designing tailor-made creative art programmes that will engage the community and encourage businesses to put arts on their agendas.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? February 1-25 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Museum A display of hundreds of contemporary artworks from 70 Jordanian artists.

E Call 17 298-744.

When? February 1-10 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Museum Bahraini artists display their idea of women in the contemporary social world.

E Call 17 298-744.

When? February 1, 2, 8, 15 and 22 Event? Exhibition Venue? La’artier, Seef Mall View mosaic creations by artist Faiza Saeed followed by a series of workshops.

E Call 39 329-675.

When? February 1-March 10 Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum A collection of Arab artworks from early 20th century to 21st century.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 5-29 Event? Exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Mohammed Omar Khalil continues his Battle of San Romano exhibition.

E Call 17 717-707.

happeningsartsculture When? February 18-March 31 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Café

Eastern Echo La fontaine centre of contemporary art will be host an art exhibition by the Japanese artist and architect Tatsuo Yamamoto. Titled ‘Resonance’, the concept is based on bamboo groves and reeds in the wetlands, where invisible winds and vibrations in the surrounding air cause branches and leaves to shake.

Nature becomes the instrument — and creates sound as light and shadow intertwine.

The exhibition will comprise installation sculptures and furniture — and for the opening night, two very well-known Japanese drummers will animate the evening as well as causing the artworks to vibrate to the drummers’ beat. E Call 17 230-123.

36 February 2012 BTM

When? February 9, 16 and 23 | Event? Movie Screenings | Venue? La Maison Jamsheer

When? February 12-31 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? La fontaine centre

Irina Averinos will be holding her first solo art exhibition this month. Titled ‘Sun Splashes’, Irina’s artwork reflects the beauty of nature in her work and uses a wide spectrum of colours to evoke harmony. Her paintings are warm and sunny with use of natural light and they carry a positive energy, evident to the eye.

Born in Tuapse, the Russian city on the Black Sea Coast, Caucasus, Irina works primarily with oil painting. The artist chooses a classical style which aptly expresses reality and has been trained by masters from different art schools. Her artistic education is always built upon through experimenting with other mediums and techniques.

The exhibition opening will start at 4pm where visitors can meet the artist and light refreshments will be served. The exhibition will run every day from 8am to 1pm and from 4pm to 8pm.

E Call 17 612-576.

When? February 1, 2, 8, 15 and 22 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? La’artier, Seef Mall

Rays of Light

Through the Glass Exhibiting her mosaic creations, Faiza Saeed’s creative zeal continues to astonish us as she breaks boundaries by moulding artistic trends into mosaic masterpieces. The artist was trained by legendary British mosaic artist Emma Biggs, and the twoday exhibition will be followed by a series of workshops by the artist.

E Call 39 329-675.

Parisian Cinema Discover a world of French cinema culture this month with Alliance Française’s movie screening.

Adie Gary revolves around conscientious Francis, his recently-freed ex-con son Samir, neighbour (and Francis’s illicit lover) Maria and her imaginative son José — who deals with all this by escaping into a Wild West fantasy world where his father is cowboy hero Gary Cooper.

Also showing this month is Itinéraires, directed by Christophe Otzenberger. All the Cine Club’s movies play on Thursday and start at 7.30pm.

E Call 17 683-295.

When? February 7-27 Event? Exhibition Venue? National Museum An exhibition that explores the evolution of Japanese architecture.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 11 Event? Exhibition Venue? Suq Al Qayssaria See the unveiling of the newly renovated suq in Muharraq.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 12 Event? Exhibition Venue? La fontaine A sculptural installation from Japanese artist and architect Tatsuo Yamamoto.

E Call 17 322-549.

When? February 16-March 1 Event? Bab Al Bahrain competition Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square View the opening of the BAB Ideas competition exhibition and the winner.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 17 Event? Talk Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Brush up on your architectural knowledge from experts in the field.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 18-March 31 Event? Exhibition Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Irina Averinos displays natureinspired pieces in her solo exhibition ‘Sun Splashes’.

E Call 17 298-712.

When? February 20 Event? Screening Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square An open air cinema showing of Hamad and the Pirates, filmed in Bahrain.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 24-25 Event? Workshop Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Architects and urban planners give workshops on a public space theme.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 27 Event? Screening Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Screening of the documentary Home by Yann Arthus-Bertrand.

E Call 17 298-750.

When? February 28 Event? Lecture Venue? Bab Al Bahrain Square Hear award-winning architect Rem Koolhaas talk.

E Call 17 298-750.

Wok... A Magnifique South East Asian cuisine at Sofitel Bahrain

Wok restaurant features an a la carte menu offering authentic south east asian fare from vietnam, thailand, malaysia and indonesia.

Enjoy the live cooking experience or indulge yourself while seated at the terrace area overlooking the pool and the Arabian Gulf.

Dinner: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm (Closed on Tuesday) to reach Sofitel Bahrain, Follow the directions of the Bahrain International Circuit GPS - Longitude & Latitude. 26.3’13” N & 50.29’0” E TEL. +973 17 636363 FAX. +973 17 636364 E-mail H6722@sofitel.com www.sofitel.com

happeningsclubssocieties When? Throughout February | Event? Various | Venue? The British Club

When? February 2 Event? Musical evening Venue? Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam A night of Carnatic music in association with the Nadabrahmam Music Club.

E Call 39 697-600 or 39 617-620.

When? February 3 Event? Gala dance and dinner Venue? Dilmun Club Dance the night away in support of The Mission to Seafarers.

E Call 17 253-866.

When? February 9 and 11 Event? Competition prize giving Venue? Bahrain Garden Club Winners of the recent gardening competition will be awarded their trophies.

E Call 17 727-625.

A British Classic Alison Coldridge A considerable amount of residents in Bahrain are British; it’s not a surprise, therefore, to find that The British Club is a regular hot spot for many of the island’s residents.

Priding itself on providing ‘a home away from home’, The British Club has built a reputable name for itself in the impressive 75 years it has been functioning. The club provides a great networking platform for expats, and don’t worry, you don’t need to be British!

With its impressive figures — there are currently almost 2,000 members — the club is becoming more of a popular daytime, evening and weekend hangout for all people of all ages. These statistics are hugely helped by the diverse range of annual and special events that are planned throughout the year, giving members and guests the chance to experience anything from theatre to jazz concerts to parties.

Action this month This month the British Club has a number of varied spectacles up its extensive sleeve; of course February comes hand-inhand with Valentine’s Day, and the club is celebrating with a lavish three-course candlelit dinner. Members and guests can be wined and dined in the Ascot restaurant whilst listening to live entertainment from Kristofer James, a young singer from the UK.

38 February 2012 BTM

Also on the agenda is the chance to catch the vintage, and outrageous, movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The film will be screened at 8pm in the Windsor room on February 16.

Dressing up as Dr Frank-N-Furter, Magenta, Janet, or any of the other characters from the film is mandatory and audience participation will be expected and encouraged. This event is free to members and BD2 for guests.

A specific kid’s event has also been planned in the form of a campout, letting the little ones enjoy a perfectly safe night on under the stars on February 24. An evening BBQ will be provided in addition to a hearty breakfast.

Or alternatively, the whole family can attend the MASK performance of the children’s musical Annie. Over 40 children will be ruling the stage between February 2 and 4 as they sing and act their hearts out to classics such as omorrow.

Plenty to enjoy All year round, members can also make use of the club’s in-house library. Stocked full of English language books, the club considers the collection to be one of the largest in Bahrain and kids can find educational material to assist their studies or simply some fun fictional reads to pore over. Health fanatics can use the well-equipped gym, large pool and tennis club whenever required and Mums can stop by the coffee shop for play dates and weekly activity groups.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? February 14 Event? Valentines Day dinner Venue? The British Club Enjoy a three course candlelit dinner for two in the club’s Ascot restaurant.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? February 15-16 Event? Gardening exhibition Venue? Bahrain Garden Club Entries from the floral exhibition and experimental gardening will be showcased.

E Call 17 727-625.

When? February 16 Event? Film screening Venue? The British Club Watch the outrageous Rocky Horror Picture Show in the Windsor Room at 8pm.

E Call 17 728-245.

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happeningskidsteens When? February 11-13 | Event? Romeo and Juliet | Venue? The Cultural Hall

When? February 4-18 Event? Acting workshop Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Yusef Alsuhaimi talks about comedic talent.

E Call 17 612-576.

When? February 11 Event? Yoga talk Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre Learn how the practice of yoga can make a difference in your child’s life.

E Call 17 612-576.

When? February 11-13 Event? Theatre production Venue? Cultural Hall Shakespeare 4 Kidz presents Romeo and Juliet in a childfriendly way.

E Call 17 261-555.

When? February 24 Event? Kids Capoeira Venue? World Beat Fitness Centre A fun filled children’s program introducing the Brazilian martial arts form, Capoeira.

E Call 17 612-576.

A Tale Foretold You might know their story inside out, but that won’t stop you from catching yet another play about the legendary couple, especially when it is performed by Shakespeare 4 Kidz.

A favourite of children and adults alike, Shakespeare4Kidz (S4K) are on tour again, visiting Bahrain in February with the perfect performance for the month that celebrates true love — Romeo and Juliet.

When it comes to making the bard’s plays appealing for children, the theatre group is in a class of its own. It has introduced millions of young people to the magical world of Shakespeare over the last 15 years.

Kids love them because they can understand them. The complicated stories and complex text are simplified by the use of modern language linking together the most famous and best-loved lines. And there are catchy songs and dances to top it all. Adults are equally enchanted because they are simply a five-star theatrical musical production.

The production will feature many of its popular cast and be directed by its co-writer and founder, Julian Chenery. The team consists of 20 talented professional actors/singers who will give you a magical live performance. It’s been retold in countless ways, but never in the exuberant child-friendly way which they promise.

Love and hate, laughter and tears, politics and religion, power and passion — this show has got them all, and in a way everyone can relate to. S4K are experts at putting the play’s message across with its unique balance of comedy and

40 February 2012 BTM

poignancy although all the original ingredients are retained.

Pick up tickets at Havajava (Manazel), Trousseau (Aali Complex), Razmatazz (Budaiya) or Al Osra (Saar).

An enduring story The Montagues and the Capulets are proud Italian families — but great enemies. One night Romeo Montague and his friends decide to gatecrash the Capulet ball; that is where he and Juliet fall head over heels in love. From then on it’s a rollercoaster ride. Juliet’s parents plan an arranged marriage for her to Count Paris, all the while not knowing that she has secretly married Romeo. Rival gangs riot on the streets and two young men die, and Romeo is banished.

Juliet and Friar Lawrence hatch a dare-devil plan involving a dangerous potion. In a desperate race against time and fate, can disgraced Romeo make it back to his bride’s side before it is too late?

E Visit www.shakespeare4kidz.com or call 39 616-858.

When? February 24 Event? Kid’s campout Venue? British Club The little ones can enjoy a night under the stars with a BBQ and breakfast included.

E Call 17 728-245.

When? February 25 Event? Educational event Venue? Governmental primary schools The English Project for youngsters between the ages of 5 and 12.

E Call 17 261-555.

When? February 25 Event? Book reading Venue? Al A’ali Shopping Compex Take your kids to listen to stories and take part in fun educational activities.

E Call 17 266-166.

happeningssportsrecreation When? February 17 | Event? Horse riding show | Venue? Twin Palms Riding Centre

When? February 4 Event? Horse riding race Venue? Bahrain Int’l Endurance Village His Majesty the King’s Cup ride is the main event.

E Call 17 836-569.

When? February 5 Event? Ladies’ golf competition Venue? Awali Golf Club The ladies take to the course for an ‘excuse me’ team competition.

E Call 17 756-770.

When? February 7 Event? Tennis championship Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club 150 local and GCC players are expected to take part.

E Call 17 729-561.

When? February 10 Event? Golf competition Venue? Awali Golf Club Avid golfers can take part in medal competition.

E Call 17 756-770.

When? February 16 Event? Running competition Venue? Riffa Views International School The very first Terry Fox run is set to take place on the school grounds.

E Email international@terryfox.org.

A Sport Bolting Ahead Alison Coldridge Twin Palms Riding Centre is hosting its first in-house event this month to encourage aspiring riders to get involved and unearth a new hobby.

Equestrian is one of the most favoured sports, and pastimes, in Bahrain. People of all ages and social standing can be seen riding horses or watching events as it’s an age-old mode of transport, particularly in this part of the world.

There are plenty of places to learn the techniques, the skill and the strength, one of which is the Twin Palms Riding Centre (TPRC), the largest horse riding and training establishment in Bahrain. The centre’s qualified British and European instructors will teach beginners through to competition entrants while providing ponies or horses to suit your needs.

Events are regularly held to encourage healthy competition and to provide fun for all the riders, such as the one taking place this month, ‘Twixstead’. TPRC’s first in-house one-day event competition will be a combination show and involve three areas of competition; dressage, cross country and summed up with showjumping. All riders wishing to participate must enter before February 14 into one of two classes, set apart by the height of the showjumping fences. The riders will secondly be judged on the correct turnout of both horse and rider.

42 February 2012 BTM

It’s a great chance for riders of all levels, from beginners upwards, to take part and earn points in the TPRC’s 2011/12 league as there are two categories to enter into — one for newcomers and a second for experienced riders.

“This is the first time the centre has held an in-house event and we have great hopes for it going really well. Lots of riders have voiced their interest in the day and in return TPRC will ensure that all participants have a fun day,” says Anki Holmstrom, the centre’s owner and an experienced instructor.

The undisputed benefits “Horse riding is a highly recommended hobby for both children and adults to take part. It will keep your fitness levels up and teach you to work as one with your horse.

Children particularly learn the discipline and skill in caring for an animal,” Anki outlines.

As well as the expected horse and pony riding lessons, TPRC offers lots of other services. One of the favourites is the pony parties that can be booked. “If you child wants a birthday party with a difference, this is the perfect solution. We provide two ponies and two grooms to assist the children for a total of one and a half hours. We can even arrange catering if needed,” Anki explains.

E Call 39 566-809 or visit www.twinpalmsridingcentre.com.

When? February 17 Event? Dressage competition Venue? Twin Palms Riding Centre Show will include dressage, show jumping and cross country.

E Call 39 566-809.

When? February 18 Event? Horse riding race Venue? Bahrain Int’l Endurance Village Jockeys take to the tracks for the Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa ride.

E Call 17 836-569.

When? February 18 Event? Seniors’ golf competition Venue? Awali Golf Club Senior players can try their hand at a strokeplay competition.

E Call 17 756-770.

When? February 20-25 Event? Tennis competition Venue? Bahrain Tennis Federation The GCC championships will take place for under 14s and under 18s.

E Email btf@bahraintennis.com.

When? February 24 Event? Marathon Venue? Al Areen The Bahrain Road Runners take to the tarmac around Al Areen.

E Visit www.bahrainroadrunners.com.

When? February 24 Event? Golf competition Venue? Awali Golf Club Annual Nass medal competition is a major strokeplay event.

E Call 17 756-770.

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Jaffar & Debbie Al Sairafi Festive Party Debbie & Jaffar Al Sairafi hosted a party for a number of friends to celebrate the festive season last month. The party was held at their residence in Mahooz

Jaffar, Yasmine, Debbie & Mariam

Sara, Jaffar & Talal

Wendy, Fred & Heather

Debbie & Jaffar Maria, Laura, Judith & Debbie

Katrina, Edel & Coady

Mari Christina & Isabelle

Hana & Maria

Rasool & Jaffar

44 February 2012 BTM

Yasmine, Safiya, Mariam & Huda

Sonja, Wolfgang & Wolfgang

Elizabeth, Shaker & Andrea

Hussain, Yousif, Mohammed, Essam & Jalil

Nader, Abdullah & Bu Hindi

Dennis & Keenon

Bob

Judith & Neil

Hussain, Debbie & Isiah

Yousif & Essam

Edel, Sharon, Debbie, Sara, Coady, Debbie & Audrey

Jaffar, George, Lamya, Fatima, Gigi & Anne

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Mala Kumar Cultural Programme Indian Ambassador’s wife Mala Kumar in collaboration with Jusoor Committee for promoting cultural exchange between countries, hosted a cultural programme promoting the traditional Indian dress, the saree, at her residence in Saar. The event was attended by the wife of Foreign Minister Shaikha Wesal Al Khalifa, wife of the Industry and Commerce Minister Angela Fakhro, diplomat wives and Jusoor Committee members. A fashion show was also held, displaying different styles of sarees from around India Shaikha Wesal, Bonnie Krajeski, Mala Kumar, Milena Padula & Bridget Lindsay

Shanthini, Smitha, Mala Kumar & Lathika

Anasu, Meera & Suvasini

Mona Almoayyed & Betsy

Angela Fakhro & Shaikha Wesal

Iro & Lynne

Saadet & Begam

Altaf, Saniya & Fathiya

Sawsan & Nor

Sukma & Rosita

Mala Kumar & Milena Padula

Fatima & Balqees

Nadia & Radia

Fawzia & Hana

Nadia & Roseneni

Ashalatha

Women dressed in saree's from different parts of India

46 February 2012 BTM

Asha & Mala Kumar

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Block 338 New Year's Eve Party Block 338 in Adliya hosted a New Year's Eve party for a number of guests at the restaurant last month. Revellers were treated to a fine 5 course menu, beverages and cool music by resident DJ Kaz Karin, Francois, Pip, Rachel, Arjuna & Willem

Antoine & Lynette

Antoinette & Chris

Henry, Albert & Nigesh

Wayne & Waynetta

Abdulla & Yousef

Sam, Steve & Moe

New Year's Eve At The InterContinetal Regency A number of people brought in the year 2012 at the InterContinetal Regency Bahrain last month

Elena & Hedi

Adam & Sheila

Gladys & Shane

Lia & Imran

Gulf Hotel Christmas Party At Typhoon The Gulf Hotel held a Christmas party for members of the media and clients at the Typhoon Lounge last month

Philomena & Rachel

Radel, Isabelle, Dee & Fabrice

Mohammed & Maria

Muraki & Judy

Jamazing & Kalloush

Pauline, Alison, Lorraine & Diane

Ahmed & Doug

Annie & Cherly

Christmas At Jane's Jane and her hot mama Santa's celebrated Christmas at Jane's residence in Mahooz Jane & her hot mama Santa friends

48 February 2012 BTM

Jane & Arnel

FRIDAY BONANZA!

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Bayan School Bahrain's Got Talent Charity Show The Bahrain's Got Talent - an annual non-profit charity event, the brainchild of Bahrain Bayan School students, at which, a number of students from all over Bahrain showcased their talent and skills, which included singing, beat-boxing, dancing and musical performances was held at the school's Mohammed Al Zamil Hall last month. Funds raised from the event will be donated to the Be Free Cancer Society in Bahrain.

The event was sponsored by Sylvan Learning Centre

Judges, singer AlHarith Al Atawi, poet May Al Qassim & Comedian Al Esbai

Deena, Noor & Noora

One of the acts on stage

Hussain, Isa & Nasser

Reem & Noor

Raith

Fathima

Manaf & Mohammed

Zara

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50 February 2012 BTM

Mocha Girls At The Warbler Will known Filipino female group Mocha Girls took to the stage last month at The Warbler, Baisan International Hotel, much to the delight of their fans

The Mocha Girls with Rana

Claire, Liza & Troy

Abhi, Swati, Madhu, Mani & Ash

Oswald & Vishal

Jude, Philip, Antony, Alvin & Bryan

Ashalatha & Shantharam Shetty

DJ Kiwi

Amanda, Charlene, Nikki & Lenore

Peacy, Joanna, Nimesha & Kimberly

Franz & Idris

Robin Sharma FIRST TIME IN BAHRAIN

Lead without a TitleTM No.1 International Best Selling Author of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari &

The Greatness Guide

For more Informations & Bookings, Contact:

M +973 3604 8699 / 3998 6580

T +973 1769 8720 / 1769 8726 F +973 1769 2232 E sandipan.sarkar@bihr.com.bh

26 FEBRUARY 2012 GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN

bihr.com.bh BTM February 2012 51

bystanderthismonth

Cucina Italiana Grand Opening A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to mark the grand opening of Cucina Italiana restaurant, next to Bennigans at Al Safir Hotel in Juffair. The event was attended by HE Enrico Padula, Italian Ambassador, Bahrain Family Leisure board of directors and a number of invited guests

Amini & Suresh

Mohammed, Sabina & Moosa

52 February 2012 BTM

Abdul Latif Khalid Al Aujan, chairman of the board cuts the ribbon

Farouk Almoayyed & Jalil Al Ansari

Ghina, Gareth & Garfield

HE Enrico & Milena Padula with Paul

Bashar & Aqeel

Cynthia & Chef Eraldo Colazzo

Safiya & Sergio

Steve

Khalid Kanoo

Omran

Nelson

Al Ghalia Press Luncheon Al Ghalia hosted a press luncheon at the Al Bander Hotel & Resort last month. At the event, Al Ghalia presented a cheque to the Bahrain Cancer Society for BD 11,000 which was raised at the Zumba For Charity Event that was held at the resort. The lunch was also an opportunity to say thank you to the charity event sposors Yasmine Deeb, Adnan, Dr Ali Mirza, Suzanne, Shaikha Wafa Al Khalifa & Ahmed Mukthar

Sharif, Khalil & Mohammed

Ralph, Ryan & Naan

The cheque for BD 11,000 being presented to the Bahrain Cancer Society

Shakar, Joseph, Maria, Wael, Thakur & Siraj

Pradeep

Mohsen

Lelani, Suzanne & Badia

Wael & Jacob

BTM February 2012 53

spotlightthismonth

Dr Shahda at the Dadaab ‘Bahrain Clinic’

An Exercise in Reality After two memorable weeks of medical duty at the world’s largest refugee camp, Dr Mohamed Shahda is back to offer a reality check on the crisis there.

54 February 2012 BTM

Last October, this dental surgeon decided to take two weeks of his annual leave to volunteer on a humanitarian mission to Africa. Having helped set up the first medical clinic for Somali refugees in Dadaab, he has come back a changed man.

Dr Shahda, along with house surgeon Mohammed Ayad, was part of the first Arab doctors’ team to reach the refugee town of Dadaab under the auspices of the Turkey-based Alliance of International Doctors (AID). Located 100 kilometres from the Somalia border, Dadaab is home to 700,000 refugees, mostly from Somalia.

The nine-hour drive from Nairobi airport, which turned into a two-day ordeal amidst flooded roads, flat tyres and numerous security checkpoints, may have provided an insight as to what lay ahead.

Arriving at the 50 square-kilometre refugee camp area, the enormity of their assignment set in. Hundreds of refugees walked at least ten kilometres every day and waited five hours to see a doctor. They mostly came with gunshot injuries, open cuts and wounds, broken limbs and eye infections; Dr Shahda feared they didn’t have enough diagnostic equipment to diagnose anything more complex than malaria, yellow fever or vitamin deficiency.

“The first three days were very difficult. Treatment seemed impossible in absence of X-ray machines or even blood test equipment,” he says. “Prescribed medication was torn out of packets before it was given out for fear that the patients would sell it to buy food. This was their first priority; that was clear.”

Initially, the camp could handle only around 300 patients daily, but by mid-November the team was able to build a wooden-tin structure — the Bahrain clinic — after AID succeeded in

convincing the Kenyan government to allow them to construct this facility.

“We saw refugees fighting amongst themselves to seek medical attention and a fence had to be erected to prevent rioting among waiting patients,” he says.

If the assignment was unlike any other, the appreciation they received also surpassed convention. Hundreds of people escorted the team for a few kilometres when they left the camp a fortnight later. One man arrived clutching a dried piece of cake, possibly an entire day’s meal for his family, to offer them.

Back in Bahrain, the team is trying to raise awareness for Dadaab refugees as the Bahrain clinic will remain closed unless more doctors volunteer to man it.

So far, the group’s Facebook page has generated less than 170 ‘likes’.

“Committing two weeks out of their annual leave for Somali refugees may seem too much for some doctors in Bahrain,” Mohamed opines. “A few showed interest but wanted to know whether they’d be given air tickets and hotel facilities!”

Dr Shahda would like every physician to try this assignment and see the ‘other face’ of the world. There may be an element of risk involved, but media reports about security issues have been much exaggerated,” he believes.

“We’re meeting the Bahrain Medical Society to help enlist doctors to get the clinic running again. We hope to raise enough donations to set up a surgical department and basic equipment such as X-ray machines. After all, these refugees are human beings; they deserve this much at least,” he says.

Doctors and sponsors in Bahrain who wish to help, can write to scre4msomalirefugees@gmail.com.

bystanderthismonth

Renuka New Year's Eve Party Renuka Ravindran hosted a New Year's Eve party for a number of her friends at her residence in Riffa Views

Renuka & Zeenat

Raj, Shubha, Renuka & Dr Satheesh

Sharon & Erwin

Dr Satheesh & Renuka

Sharon, Prasad & Carol

Jeff & Rachel

Dr Mathangi & Dr Nitin

Urvashi & Hemant

Prasad & Lakshman

Younis, Ingrid & Doris

Renuka, Sarwa & Behnam

Radha & Preeti

AMERICAN SOUTHERN STYLE FAMILY RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

FRIDAY BRUNCH-Ric’s Upstairs Everything From Breakfast, Sushi To Prime Rib! 11:00am-3:00pm 16.5BD 14BD U.S. Military (ID Required) Unlimited Selected Beverages Juffair, Bahrain

56 February 2012 BTM

Tel: 17725550

Email: ricsbah@yahoo.com

businessthismonth When? February 7-9 | Event? Industry fair | Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre

Exhibitor at 2010 GIF exhibition

An Industry Insight The industrial sector has proven itself as a prime economic driver in the GCC, playing a substantial role in the development of the region.

Priding itself on being the premier industrial trade show of the Northern Gulf — the fifth Gulf Industry Fair (GIF) 2012 promises to be the best showcase for industry innovation and innovators. The event expects 110 companies from 20 countries to attend, marking the event as ideal for business-to-business (B2B) industry trade gathering.

The GIF will bring conventional upstream, downstream and midstream energy companies face-to-face with international specialists — from reservoir technology experts to process control developers and pipeline maintenance engineers.

Other industrial segments to be covered include aluminium, machine tools, industrial equipment, automation, steel, energy, logistics and manufacturing. The fair will also provide a unique opportunity for the operators of industrial areas, ports and free zones to meet an interested market of decision-makers in the manufacturing and distribution sectors.

Among the dedicated zones is the Aluminium Zone; headed by ALBA, it and will featurie key downstream companies including ITSS, Garmco, BALEXCO, Ameeri Industries and Turk Mechanical.

The Energy Zone will be headed by the National Oil and Gas Authority in association with Bapco and will also host global players such as Chevron and Skaugen Gulf. The Ports and Logistics Zone is led by the General Organisation of Sea Ports of Also this month

Bahrain and is backed up by Bahrain Logistics Zone, Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard and Baytik Industrial Investments.

In keeping with energy industry trends, the exhibition also features companies that specialise in solar, wind and nuclear technologies, as well as inventors of ‘smart grid’ energy management systems, all of which are geared to powering the GCC’s future industrial growth.

The 2012 show promises to broaden the exhibitor spectrum and will also host a forum; the second in the series. The forum will feature influential personalities from government, industry and business, laying out their visions for the long-term economic prosperity of Bahrain and the Gulf region, under the theme ‘The Future is Industry’. The interactive discussion’s topics will include powering industrial development and developing SME’s market innovation and creating industrial and manufacturing business.

The future is bright Along with shaping the region’s industrial landscape, the GCC’s industrial giants are also preparing their human resources for the technological, operational and economic challenges of tomorrow. This makes the GIF 2012 the ideal stage on which training institutions and organisations can showcase their programmes. Having the potential to absorb significant numbers of graduates, students wishing to enter the field can browse through the available vocational courses, internships and initiatives. E Call 17 299-123.

When? February 7-8 Event? Insurance forum Venue? Gulf Convention & Exhibition Centre An in-depth look at how to transform the regional insurance markets.

E Visit www.megaevents.net/ insurance.

When? February 7-9 Event? Industry fair Venue? Bahrain Int’l Exhibition Centre The premier industrial trade show of the Northern Gulf arrives in Bahrain.

E Call 17 299-123.

When? February 12-15 Event? The Middle East Corrosion Conference Venue? Gulf Hotel Trade event for industry experts returns for its 14th edition.

E Call 17 810-733.

When? February 21 Event? CAD design conference Venue? Novotel Al Dana Resort An event led by a society who teach and conduct research in this field.

E Visit www.ascaad.org.

When? March 5 Event? GEO 2012 Venue? Bahrain Int’l Exhibition Centre Review the development of the Middle East’s hydrocarbon resources.

E Call 17 558-800.

58 x Entrepreneur - 60 x Interview

BTM February 2012 57

businessentrepreneur

xxxxx Where intrapreneurs differ from the standard entrepreneur is they know a good opportunity from a bad one

Abdullah AlSubyani

Igniting Innovation If you’re a top-notch professional privately nursing a business idea on your own, The Firm might like to hear from you!

58 February 2012 BTM

As the first business club targeted for intrapreneurs in the region, The Firm (TF) addresses the global intrepreneur’s need for investment, business development and consulting, believes Abdullah AlSubyani, founder and president.

The private networking platform was launched in Bahrain last December.

Intrapreneurs will form the core of the TF’s membership base and will get to privately present and promote their business ideas and projects as well as find access to credible investors, potential corporate partners and developers.

Abdullah holds that a certain percentage of people in any corporation have entrepreneurship spirit; they know the industry and are aware of existing gaps and future needs.

“That’s where intrapreneurs differ from the typical entrepreneur; they know a good opportunity from a bad one.

Coming from within the industry and being successful professionals themselves, they bring high-impact ideas and projects that are new to the world,” he says.

Companies, on the other hand, may wish to outsource some functions, often a ‘healthy’ business practice. The resulting ventures create jobs and tend to be sustainable since they address a genuine gap. Abdullah believes corporations worldwide are sitting on a gold mine of ideas but do not know how to leverage them.

“Infrastructure for intrapreneurs doesn’t exist even on a global level. Everyone’s heard about the Google and 3M story — but how do companies encourage employees to innovate and start something on their own?”

The TF founder himself took a long while before taking the plunge. Having worked at SABIC and Saudi Aramco for 25 years, he opted for early retirement in the end of 2010 to pursue his dream. Most intrapreneurs face the same dilemma, and sometimes, they don’t even get to see their idea materialise, which is a waste, he believes.

The company has on its advisory board the leading exponent of intrapreneurship Gifford Pinchot who coined the term in 1978, Abdulrahim Hasan Naqi from the Federation of Gulf Chambers of Commerce, Venture Capital expert Naveed Khan, Dr Maher Chebbo, vice president, SAP and Abdulrahman AlSufiany, founder and CEO of Investors Saudi, among others.

TF will have a range of mediums to facilitate private communication of business ideas and sharing of information for business development. Participation at the annual business development forum will bring industry leaders and corporations in touch with top investors for networking. The first Global Intrepreneurship Forum in Bahrain this May will see participation from around 30 corporations and 300 Intrapreneurs.

The club also accepts online submissions of business ideas which are put up before potential investors in a confidential manner.

Further business creation will be facilitated at monthly events such as the Business Development Forums in several sectors and industries, where corporate enterprises looking to expand in specific sectors will be able to meet investors over café discussions facilitated by Charles Savage, the guru of café discussions worldwide.

The platform is truly global - ideas could emerge from within or outside the region and will be financed from money within or outside, where the underlying theme, he stresses, is to address the need for growth and creation of new companies.

“We need to revive the way we create new companies; we want to leverage intrepreneurs to achieve economic growth through this platform,” Abdullah explains.

E Visit www.thefirm-online.com.

businessinterview

Poised for Growth

the US, Europe and Japan, observes Bahrain National Holding (BNH) chief executive, Mahmoud Al Soufi.

Despite taking over the mantle of the regional financial hub from Lebanon in the 1980s, the insurance sector in Bahrain did not find mention in the Kingdom’s economy until the last decade. In contrast, the insurance sector in countries such as the UK has been contributing more to the economy than the banking sector.

Until seven years ago, the insurance industry in Bahrain fell under the purview of the Ministry of Finance and Commerce and it was only after the Bahrain Monetary Agency assumed the responsibility for regulating and supervising the sector that a comprehensive regulatory framework for insurance activities was developed.

As CEO of Bahrain National Holding (BNH), the parent company of Bahrain National Insurance (bni) and Bahrain National Life Assurance (bnl) and board member of six insurance and insurance-related companies in the region, Mahmoud is acutely aware of the immense potential the sector holds, particularly in the individual, life, health care as well as the industrial lines.

“The industry has not been given the respect and attention it deserves,” he opines.

“It is overshadowed by banking and most of the complementary business is outsourced; it is yet to mature when it comes to public awareness, product innovation, regulation and personnel development. Going forward, these factors would be the key enablers for growth.”

Having posted good results in 2011 despite a challenging market environment, Mahmoud is optimistic about BNH’s performance for 2012.

He firmly believes that the growth of the insurance sector as a major component of the financial services industry is attainable if the right conditions are cultivated by regulators, policymakers and the sector itself.

“The potential for growth in the region remains intact, but we cannot wait for things to happen. We must embrace change and adopt a more international outlook and above all, think long-term value rather than short-term profitability,” he maintains.

Developing human capital The insurance sector in the Kingdom is marked by an acute shortage of skills, particularly in the areas such as underwriting, surveying and actuarial skills.

“Bahrainis comprise around 70 per cent of the workforce in the insurance sector, but the main revenue earning functions are outsourced to expatriate professionals. This presents a huge opportunity for locals in the region as cultivating the

Mahmoud Al Soufi

Bahrain’s expanding insurance sector presents boundless opportunity not only for professionals within the GCC, but across the Arab region as a whole.

60 February 2012 BTM

Insurance may have become one of life’s necessities today, but it remains one of the least understood among financial products. In Bahrain, as in much of the Arab world, insurance penetration has traditionally remained low given the philosophical outlook on risk and uncertainty coupled with outdated regulation.

In fact, the insurance spend per capita in the Kingdom is barely two per cent compared to developed markets such as

xxxxx Small was considered beautiful twenty years ago; it’s time the Kingdom’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) started thinking big

growth of a pool of skilled local insurance professionals is paramount to the development of the sector,” he notes.

A self-described “engineer at heart”, Mahmoud is a staunch believer in learning “on the job”.

While institutions such as the Gulf Insurance Institute and the Insurance Learning Centre are doing commendable work as centres for training insurance professionals, it’s the appropriate work exposure that really makes a professional employable, he believes.

Regulators could influence the market in raising the standards of training programs by adopting internationally accredited programs. However, training, like all other functions, needs to be regulated, he opines.

“Initiatives such as GOSI and Tamkeen training programmes are excellent initiatives to start with. But companies need to move beyond the mindset of trying to get their money’s worth. Moreover, rather than being mandated, enterprises should be able to determine for themselves which employees they intend to invest in,” he suggests.

Over the coming years, market-led initiatives, including the active involvement from industry associations in generating consumer awareness of insurance, will be crucial in raising the profile of the industry to attract new talent.

A taste of Romance

Reinvest in growth The insurance sector in Bahrain is intensely competitive and fragmented, with BNH competing with over 30 companies on the island, of which half are international players. The sector is served by ancillary service providers such as brokers, actuaries, insurance consultants and loss adjusters. Mahmoud is concerned that local insurers typically retain a small portion of the risk and transfer the remaining risk to their international reinsurance partners.

“In developed countries, limited liability companies are required to invest 70 per cent of the premium collected within that country, whereas in the Arab world, two-thirds of $7 billion premium generated annually goes out of the region. This figure is set to triple by 2020,” he says.

This has significant growth implications, given the opportunities for investment in an open economy such as Bahrain which is primarily services-driven. The issue merits an intervention on the part of the government, insurance associations as well as insurance companies themselves, he believes.

The Kingdom has so far maintained a conservative approach towards GDP growth, but it’s time to widen the perspective if greater growth is to be achieved. Mahmoud feels that with the boundaries within the region melting away, the whole of the Arab world is a potential market for Bahrain.

“Small was considered beautiful twenty years ago; it’s time the Kingdom’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) started thinking big. In order to compete on an international level, enterprises need to think out of the box,” he says.

He also hopes the Kingdom’s family businesses will soon realise the need to divest a part of their companies to pursue long-term growth and expansion. This could provide the much-needed shot in the arm for the region’s capital markets. “They can divest 20 to 40 per cent and still maintain control of their company. Sooner or later, family businesses will have to do it, or they can forget about achieving growth,” he feels.

Furthermore, true management professionals need to be injected into the boards of companies to “add value” and not mere numbers. It is only the nonexecutive directors who can provide objective criticism and advice and their role cannot be ignored. Once the security issues within the Kingdom are resolved, Mahmoud is very optimistic about Bahrain’s future. “We need to talk less and do more to make a tangible change around ourselves,” he advises, to bring about a fundamental shift in the economic outlook for the Kingdom.

Romance is on the menu at Boudoir with a luscious dinner amongst other delectable surprises to spoil you. A lucky couple will also walk away with a fashionably fabulous gift, courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

At Mezzanine Lounge, we’re reliving the time when the idea of romance was dinner and a movie. Curl up in the warmth of your own private pod with your favourite movie and dinner with your beloved one.

For more information and reservations, kindly visit our website www.kempinski.com/bahrain or call (+973) 17171000

www.kempinski.com/bahrain

BTM February 2012 61

bystanderthismonth

Dr Pradeep Birthday Party Dr Pradeep celebrated his birthday with his wife Dr Vinita, daughter Anushka and a number of friends. The party was held at Sea Loft at Amwaj

Dr Pradeep, Dr Vinita & Anushka

Dr Pradeep & friends

Osian Clark Birthday Party Osian Clark celebrated his 7th birthday with a fun day with his friends at the BIC's Karting Circuit last month Weena, Osian & Chris

Khalid & Mercy

Zaki, Ben, Ayaan & Adam

Osian Clark

Jed, Osian & Yousif

All set to hit the track

Jaison

Osian & Weena Clark

Hussain & Rashida Dinner Hussain & Rashida Tadayon hosted a dinner for a few friends at China Garden, Gulf Hotel last month

Hussain Tadayon, Adnan Sharabi & George Middleton

Abdul Hussain Dawani, Mohammed Dadabhai & HE Ahmad Shahizan

62 February 2012 BTM

HE Ahmad Shahizan, Malaysian Ambassador, Rashida Tadayon & Nor Hayati

Henny Dawani & Fawzia

Rashida with her mum Dato Zubaidah

reporttelecom

It’s All About Speed For years we’ve been constrained by broadband speeds that have struggled to move beyond the single digit barrier; now we have the prospect of 100 Mbps.

Also this month

You’ve probably increasingly heard these three letters used by telecommunications companies, whether here in Bahrain or elsewhere — LTE. This acronym stands for Long Term Evolution and offers wireless operators, such as Batelco, VIVA and Zain, the opportunity to deliver not only faster services but also a completely new experience when using mobile devices.

Imagine, if you will, playing a game of tennis, via your handset, with your brother or sister half-way around the world, in real time. That’s what LTE will offer.

Most of us have experienced the impact that the iPad and other tablets have had on our lives in the past couple of years; does anyone now bother with a traditional PC to surf the web?

In the same way that these devices have changed our patterns of behaviour, we can expect LTE to so the same.

It’s an exciting new world of possibilities and we can expect the three major operators noted above to be in a rush to get offerings to the market; being the first-mover in this arena has the potential to yield significant commercial benefits. The live streaming of Internet TV, video on demand and more responsive apps requires the implementation of LTE, or similar technologies, if they are to go beyond the ‘geek’ segment of the market, and into the mainstream.

To fully utilise and appreciate this technology we may have to consider upgrading the handsets (or other devices) that we use.

That’s been made much more affordable with the sorts of bundled packages that include equipment now offered by Batelco, VIVA and Zain.

A Toyota with LTE onboard

It’s not, though, just the mobile operators who are powering ahead with faster networks. Menatelecom is working on an equivalent capacity to run such services over its fixed wireless network, based upon WiMAX technology. This operator also has other clever services up its sleeve, such as the recently launched Mi-Fi Plus, a portable Wi-Fi device that allows multiple user access.

Opening the market A subject of much discussion and contention over recent years has been the opening up of the Batelco fixed line network for use by other operators, primarily the new entrants into the market. This process is starting to gain some traction and operators such as Lightspeed Communications, who offer Internet speeds of 80 Mbps over a fixed line, are now reaping the benefits of a more open market.

While ‘fibre-to-the-home’ remains the Holy Grail for many within the telecom industry, sufficient advances in the technology deployed over existing terrestrial networks means these players have similar opportunities, in terms of applications and value-added services, to those operating in the wireless environment.

It all amounts to the same equation — the race for speed translates into even more benefits for consumers, now that the 100 Mbps has become a reality here in the Kingdom, and we can expect our lifestyle options to become much more interesting.

66 x Viva - 67 x Mena Telecom - 68 x Batelco - 69 x Lightspeed - 70 x Zain

BTM February 2012 63

reporttelecom

Editor’s Picks

Choosing a handset can be difficult, as you can’t just go on looks but need to get to know the phone a little better. Here’s the low-down on the top six of the moment.

Ladies’ handsets:

Batelco Nokia C5-03 This slim-built touch screen phone comes is very simple to use and comes equipped with fast Internet browsing with 3.5 G and Wi-Fi. It is easy to access contacts and emails, and the handset comes in a range of colours. iPhone 4S The ultimate entertainment phone will allow you to snap every funny moment and savour them with the high quality images this handset can take. It has a dual-core A5 chip and a very fast loading speed.

Youth handsets:

Nokia N9 In terms of design, the N9 is in a class of its own. The elegantly edgy plastic build comes with 1 GHz processor, 3.9-inch AMOLED screen and an 8 mega pixel camera. Texting with the N9 is a treat — the keyboard is well laid out and easy to get to grips with.

Business handsets:

BlackBerry Bold 9900 RIM have changed the BlackBerry Bold quite a bit; a must-have if you are a true multi-tasker! The 9900 feels great in the hand and is equipped with a capacitive touch screen. Of course the impressive 1.2 GHz processor doesn’t hurt!

Samsung Galaxy S II This model’s dual processor allows for fast browsing, a smooth UI, snappy streaming and even efficient gaming. With a slim body and high resolution display, this Android smartphone gives you enhanced readability and an easy grip.

64 February 2012 BTM

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VIVA

Meeting Your Needs VIVA Bahrain provides you with exactly what you want — a constant stream of flexible products, rates and bundles to suit your lifestyle and usage.

66 February 2012 BTM

In the last two years VIVA Bahrain, subsidiary of STC, has become one of the most prolific telecommunications companies in the Kingdom. Moreover, the telecom operator is constantly looking for ways to attract more customers with new products and services, as well as enticing offers and deals.

Flexibility is VIVA’s main objective, and delivered to customers through a combination of packages, price plans and services options. Whether you are a savvy student looking for the latest handset release at an affordable rate, a busy businessperson who requires the fastest download speed possible or a lady who wants numerous minutes to chat to friends, VIVA will meet your needs.

Recently-introduced add-on services allow customers to pick and choose precisely the services that match their needs, guaranteeing value for money. The VIVA Social package for BlackBerry allows users access to BBM and major social networking and instant messaging services like Facebook, Twitter and GoogleTalk For those customers with high usage demands, VIVA has unlimited packages, such as their suite of BlackBerry services.

Additionally, VIVA prides itself on providing the fastest Internet in the Kingdom with speeds of up to 42 Mbps.

Customers can enjoy unlimited data and receive a free USB dongle, or a home router for multiple users.

Many milestones have been attained by VIVA over the last few years. The company signed a deal with Apple to be the first telecom operator in Bahrain to launch the iPhone4 last May. This was followed with the release of the iPhone 4S in December.

Of course, a huge array of other mobile handsets is also sold by VIVA. Flexible price plans and packages can be selected for brands such as BlackBerry, Samsung, HTC, Windows and Google.

Customers can take advantage of deals and special offers delivered over multiple devices, such as BlackBerry, iPhone or iPad. It’s possible to choose between data volumes, credit and services for a specific period of time for the right price.

New for 2012 One of VIVA’s goals is to bring the latest technology available in the market to Bahraini consumers. This was achieved with the exclusive launch of its state-of-the-art 4G LTE network at the start of this year, further reinforcing the company’s network as the provider of the fastest broadband in Bahrain. The 4G LTE network enables customers to download movies in a matter of minutes and enjoy using apps, playing games online or streaming Internet TV smoother than ever before.

E Visit viva.com.bh.

MENATELECOM

Constant Growth

Fast and reliable services alongside affordable prices lead to loyal and new customers, which is a business initiative that this telecom operator has followed.

Since its launch in 2003 Menatelecom, an investment subsidiary of Kuwait Finance House (Bahrain), has prided itself on offering customers Bahrain’s most powerful internet. The company was the first in the world to launch a nationwide WiMAX 802.6e end-to-end network and has quickly expanded, starting this year with eight outlets around the Kingdom for accessibility to all.

All of the standard services are offered by the company — both telephone service and broadband Internet supply fixed line or mobile services — in addition to multiple small devices to suit customers’ lifestyle needs. Additionally, Menatelecom provides free nationwide local calls between its customers as well as up to 30 per cent lower rates on international calls.

Recently, the company launched MyFi Plus, a sleek new portable Wi-Fi device, which can be taken anywhere in the Kingdom. It was designed specifically to appeal to the youth market as it allows multiple Wi-Fi enabled access to the Internet with up to five devices. Customers can link to the Wi-Fi through their laptop, BlackBerry iPad and iPhone so that they are always connected. A battery life of approximately four hours is inbuilt and it can be recharged with any USB connection.

The MyFi Plus sits alongside the Mykey range; a range of small portable mobile devices with unlimited downloads, and the Game 4G which provides a smooth connection and fast response.

E Visit www.menatelecom.com.

UP TO18Mb BroadBand hotspot on the go MyFi Plus wifi portaBle router

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BTM February 2012 67

reporttelecom

BATELCO

Appealing to the Masses

Striving to go beyond just mobile and Internet services, Batelco has developed innovative schemes to please customers and show the company’s consideration of all ages.

68 February 2012 BTM

Over the past year, Batelco has worked tirelessly to provide customers with the best quality service. Various new services have been manufactured to appeal to a wide variety of the public and to meet customers’ personal needs and wants.

One such popular campaign is the online cinema booking service, whereby customers can buy tickets from their Batelco phones or online, saving them the hassle of waiting in line at the ticket booth. Batelco’s entertainment portal is another such service and is an ideal place to visit to keep up-to-date with music, images and news. Similarly, customers can use Urfilez, an online music store app for the region, which is also available for use on mobile devices.

These schemes have all been tailored to the youth market primarily, to fit the fast-paced, and somewhat impatient, lifestyle that students and young people lead and allow this sector to keep in ‘the know’ 24/7. Batelco continues its commitment to interest young people with a student-specific package, where students can receive 200 MB free data and 100 free SMS for a minimum charge.

Batelco also has considered other dominant customer demographics when devising price plans, such as a ‘red carpet’ experience that is given to high net worth individuals. Services are included such as ongoing exclusive offers and promotions throughout the year, dedicated personal account managers available around the clock, priority access to the latest products

available, first-class treatment and invitations to special events and a priority when being served at the retail shops and call centres.

A number of deals are currently running for customers to save money and enjoy added convenience. The ‘Super Smart’ package can be chosen for a wide variety of popular handsets and is priced at BD25 per month and includes free data, 200 free minutes and 75 free SMSs per month.

What to expect this year The New Year has begun with news from Batelco that will please all Internet customers. Broadband users can now benefit from upload speeds which are up to four times faster reaching up to 2 Mbps, an upgrade which is available for new and existing residential customers. Batelco prides itself on being the prefered entertainment and gaming ISP in Bahrain with its broadband service chosen by most customers, especially gamers and heavy users who seek the most reliable services, with high download and upload speeds.

Also in the pipeline is the launching of a wide range of customer value propositions to ensure that customers are entertained whilst using the Batelco network. This will include smartphones, entry level and social media devices, as well as the ongoing promotions on services.

E Visit www.batelco.com.

LIGHTSPEED COMMUNICATIONS

Outstanding Value new packages for professionals, which include multiple lines and virtual PBX features hosted by the service provider. “Our packages are tailored keeping in mind the needs of SMBs. They are transparent, cost-effective and user-friendly, designed to help the customers grow their business,” says Philippe.

“Additionally, our internet services are provided through copper lines that offer a far more stable connection compared to the wireless medium. Copper wires remain immune to weather conditions ensuring reliability to our business customer who value quality of service highly,” he adds. The office packages offer unlimited internet services ranging from 1 Mbps to 16 Mbps at tariffs 50 per cent lower than other operators.

Philippe Baudin

With a host of attractive offers and packages for businesses as well as residential customers, Lightspeed packs in more value into every offering it makes in the marketplace.

Bahrain’s first alternative fixed-line telecom service provider is charting out an exciting roadmap for the year ahead. New products in the residential segment with significantly higher download speeds will be launched during the year, while packages for small and medium businesses (SMBs) will be enhanced by mid-2012. The service provider has invested in upgrading its overall platform to improve the customer experience and expects to grow in all market segments it operates during this year. “We’re a resilient company that has grown its market-share over the past year. As the market becomes more price sensitive, customers are happy to engage with us, given the plethora of special benefits, loyalty programs and seasonal discounts on offer,” comments Philippe Baudin, CEO, Lightspeed Communications.

Small business advantage With packages especially designed for SMBs, Lightspeed offers businesses a full suite of hassle-free solutions that require minimal expenditure. The new BD12, 1mbps Start Up package for micro-businesses is perhaps the most value for money proposition, offering more in terms of speed, voice services, downloads and savings. The recently launched free service, My Office, gives a professional image to your business on the internet, with a personalized domain and 10 free email addresses. My Office is a web-based solution that can be accessed from any place at any time. It can also be synchronised with your mobile, allowing you connectivity while you are on the move. Other features offered by My Office are large file transfers, shared calendars and contacts. It is hosted and maintained by Orange and is widely used across the MENA region and Europe. On the voice front, the company will launch

Comfort at home The Home and Premium packages offered to residential consumers combines unlimited downloads, free landline services and free hours to mobile. Domestic customers can avail international calls at half the rates offered by leading service providers. The service provider is looking to launch VDSL2 access technology in private developments during the course of this year. The technology will significantly reduce download and upload time and enhance the experience of the residential user by allowing for speeds of 80 Mbps downstream on a wired connection which is much higher than what is currently offered by other operators.

Corporate solutions As a subsidiary of France Telecom, Lightspeed is the complete communications partner with a comprehensive product portfolio, offering more choices along with exceptional quality in order to meet different corporate demands and requirements.

Its extensive corporate portfolio includes local data connections (AVPN, MPLS and Microwave), dedicated internet connections over leased lines MPLS and microwave, voice services, webhosting and data hosting services, housing the client’s backup server on its premises in event of disaster recovery.

Thanks to its affiliation with Orange Business Services, the company can connect you internationally through Global MPLS and IPLC connections, making use of Orange’s robust and redundant worldwide network.

“The last year was a challenging business year impacted by a difficult local and global financial environment. In spite of that, Lightspeed’s corporate business unit managed to overcome those circumstances and grew their market share through a dedicated team and the trust of their customers” says Philippe.

“Our goal for 2012 is to capitalise on this growth and provide this dynamic segment with end-to-end and innovative solutions such as Cloud Computing and managed services,” he adds.

E Call 80 061-111 or visit www.lightspeed.com.bh.

BTM February 2012 69

reporttelecom

ZAIN

A Celebration for All As Zain Bahrain reaches another milestone, you’re invited to celebrate by taking advantage of special deals on handsets and packages.

This year marks Zain Bahrain’s eighth year in business, a cause for celebration. Special deals have been announced enabling customers to upgrade their Internet service and handsets.

Available are fixed line and mobile and broadband services, both post-paid and prepaid. For the convenience of customers, Zain also offers bundled mobile and home broadband packages at affordable prices and with unlimited thresholds.

Smart deals In terms of smartphones, Zain was the first to introduce handset subsidies in the Kingdom. With the current deals, customers can acquire the latest BlackBerry, iPhones and Samsung handsets for free, or for a nominal one-time payment.

This includes a range of BlackBerry devices including the Bold 9900, Bold 9790, Curve 9360 and Curve 9380.

Post-paid and prepaid, customers can acquire BlackBerry services for BD8 per month and pre-paid customers for BD2 per week.

Recently, Zain has also launched the new iPhone 4S in all models. In conjunction with both this and the eighth year anniversary, customers can own a new iPhone 4S 16 GB for BD35 on a one-year plan, with a monthly subscription of BD22, or free on a one-year plan with monthly subscription of BD33.

The monthly subscription includes 4 GB of bundled data in addition to bundled minutes and SMS. To cater for android, iPhone, and Windows smartphones, Zain

70 February 2012 BTM

has also recently launched a portfolio of post-paid and prepaid mobile data bundles. Post-paid customers can enjoy unlimited mobile data connectivity on their smartphones for only BD6 per month. Prepaid customers can enjoy 5 GB mobile data for only BD8 per month, 1.5 GB data for only BD2 per week, or unlimited data for only 500 fils per day.

Broadband offers Within the home broadband spectrum, a variety of packages are offered with unlimited threshold and 1 Mbps speed, while in mobile broadband there are a variety of post-paid and prepaid packages, at a price that suits the customer. Post-paid packages start at BD6 per month with 5 GB threshold and prepaid packages start at BD4 per month with 3 GB threshold.

The highest package offers a speed of 4 Mbps with unlimited threshold for BD35 per month.

With home broadband, customers can obtain a free smartphone with various packages and a variety of laptops on an installment basis. Zain caters to families’ needs with a bundled offer providing both home broadband and mobile services. Home broadband subscribers can receive up to four mobile broadband connections in addition to free e-Go devices, Mi-Fi devices and a variety of tablets with the operator’s home broadband offer.

E Visit www.bh.zain.com.

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

17-19 April 2012

Food & Beverage Technology • Food Processing Technology • Ready to Eat Products • Beverages and Soft Drinks • Health and Organic Foods • Frozen Foods • Fine Dining • Bakery

Showcasing Bahrain’s Food and Hospitality sectors and hosting exhibitors from all over the GCC.

Organised by

Supported by

Sponsored by

Media Partner

Official Carrier

For further details please contact Amal Abdulla, Senior Sales Officer on Tel: 17558898. Mobile: 33879969, or email: amal@beca.bh Anas A. AlAmer, Senior Sales Officer, Bahrain Exhibitions & Convention Authority (BECA), E-mail: anas@beca.bh, Direct line +973 17558854، Direct Fax: +973 17555513

www.foodexpbh.com

bystanderthismonth

Costa Coffee Launch The Jawad Business Group held a tasting session of Costa Coffee's latest coffee - The Flat White, at the Costa Coffee outlet in Bahrain City Centre

Kareem & Hassan

Samy & Ahmed

Ace & Alessandra

Kuswai, Murooj, Hassan, Ali, Kareem, Junaid, Lara, Ace & Alessandra

Lara, Sabir, Venki & Suresh

K Hotel Staff Party The K Hotel held its annual staff party at the hotel in Juffair last month

Natasha, Leny, Neman Abdulla, general manager, Cristalyn & Chorie

Netra, employee of the month with Neman

Anura

Jeevan & Ashokan

Romliyn, Cynthia, Jinky & Meyline

Raj, Sohag, Iftihar, Sohag & Gokul

Rosario

Jane, Dana & Princess

Khalil & Netra

Anwar, Sunil & Delowar

Abdul Hussain & Ahmed

Bala & Neman

Mairi Thomas Art Exhibition At World Beat Mairi Thomas held an exhibition of her art at the World Beat Fitness Centre in Saar last month

72 February 2012 BTM

Ratna, Mairi & Tosin

Sabine, Latifa & Essam

Jane with Mairi & guests

Rakesh

reportfinancingsmes

Finessing Opportunity Initiating and then growing a business is a tough assignment in the best of times; trying to do this in a market full of uncertainties makes it doubly so.

Also this month

Confidence, as we all know, is a critical factor when it comes to consumers electing to part with their hard-earned income. For businesses any absence or perceived lack of this sentiment usually spells one thing — a reduced potential to generate revenues.

History, however, has clearly demonstrated that some of the best businesses started their life in the worst of times; figuring out how to be successful in a downturn not only results in some pain but, with it, the opportunity for significant gain.

The construction of an appropriate strategy to implement an initial vision is vital if that business idea is to take flight and then generate the sort of returns one might have only dreamed to be possible. In a market the size of Bahrain, that often means adding an offshore revenue stream into a business plan.

Factor in the sort of issues people have had to contend with over the past year, and the opportunity to diversify risk is both appealing and self-evident. Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME), though, often pay little heed to a proper and well-thought out marketing plan. Yet working through such a plan provides valuable insights into the opportunities and threats for a business; it can also yield revenue ideas that previously might have appeared implausible.

One conclusion many people seem to have drawn from the lessons of the last year is that, while Bahrain might be small in size, it needs to think big when it comes to ideas. While we might perceive the global nature of business today as an insurmountable obstacle, it can also be turned to our

Identify your strategy!

advantage. Our customer base should no longer be considered as just ‘local’; tapping into a potentially worldwide audience is one of the reasons why marketing is such an attractive career by many people.

Assessing risk and understanding opportunity are equally critical when it comes to sourcing financing for a business that is looking to grow. One of the positives of the Tamkeen portfolio of incentives is the funding that it offers businesses who are willing to think big, expand beyond our shores and who are prepared to acknowledge the value that professional consultants can deliver.

With this government agency planning to invest more than BD100 million over the next year to promote the development of the Kingdom’s SME sector, it’s a great opportunity for businesses here to explore how they can be ‘bigger’ than they might otherwise imagine.

What’s equally true is that financial institutions are in the business of lending money; they require a flow of potential deals in order to make profits themselves. Whether they are a global leader, such as HSBC, or an enterprising player, like Mashreq Bank, a business plan that is well constructed and has clearly identified risks and opportunities will stand a much greater chance of successful financing.

There’s a great opportunity over the next year for the Kingdom’s SMEs to transform their businesses; it’s one not to be missed by those who really want to be ‘big.

74 x Mashreq Bank

BTM February 2012 73

reportfinancingsmes MASHREQ BANK

Here to Help Specific loan propositions and other financial aids have been manufactured by the team at Mashreq Bank to assist SMEs throughout the Kingdom.

Mashreq Bank Bahrain has always endeavoured to support SMEs in the Kingdom, due to the important role they play in the economy. With the growing needs of this segment, the bank has taken steps to ensure the development of products and services to boost the SME sector.

At this moment in time, Mashreq has three sets of current account packages for SMEs depending on the operational size of the organisation. A basic ‘value’ account can be opened for all small-sized companies, a ‘premium’ account can be opened by mid-sized SMEs, which carries attractive transactions costs, and ‘platinum’ SME accounts can be opened by medium enterprises. The ‘premium’ package carries highly discounted transactions costs and both premium and platinum clients have access to dedicated relationship managers as well.

Currently, the company is able to provide financing to two categories of clients. Small companies, with a minimum of three years in business and minimum annual sales of BD150,000, will be offered Mashreq’s small business loans (SBL) proposition. These loans are offered for a maximum amount of BD30,000 and for a maximum tenor of 48 months.

Before the loan is provided an analysis is always made of the client’s bank statements and audited financials as part of Mashreq’s quick credit decision. Good businesses with satisfactory track record can apply for the SBL.

Ullas Venkat (Head of Retail Banking) and Iqbal Hasan Khanyari (Country Manager)

74 February 2012 BTM

For slightly higher end SMEs a comprehensive trade and working capital proposition is offered. This involves an in-depth analysis of the client’s financial statements and arriving at a judgmental call to provide financing. Under this arrangement, Mashreq can go up to an amount of BHD 500,000. The products covered under this are letters of credit, guarantees, overdrafts and short term loans.

Within the conventional banking space, very few banks have ventured into small business financing. Instead, Mashreq offer comprehensive and convenient tailor-made SME propositions, designed to assist customers to fulfill their business aspirations. Mashreq believes it has a good handle on the market as this product has been launched at a time when banks are retreating from offering small or micro finance and are mainly focused on large companies.

An online banking platform is something that Mashreq is building upon in order to offer customers a seamless banking experience. Currently a simple and user-friendly online platform is available, which enables customers to check their balances and account movements on a daily basis. However a fullfledged and comprehensive online banking platform exclusively for SMEs is currently being developed and will soon will be available to all SME clients in Bahrain. E Call 17 504-417 or 17 504-415 or visit www.mashreqbank.com.

A MASTERLY STROKE OF MOTORING GENIUS.

Now own it with the reassuring offers from First Motors.

Setting new benchmark motoring standards and winning plaudits and awards, the Hyundai Genesis luxury sedan captures many hearts. Elegant design, plush luxury features, powerful performance and cutting edge of technology all come together to offer you an immersive driving experience.

• • • •

www.1stmotors.com

Lifetime warranty 3 years service package Attractive leasing option Guaranteed buyback at 50% of the price after 3 years

17 121 121 www.hyundai.com

Showroom Opens 7 days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM

downtimethismonth

Extremely Talented Elma Bartholomew It would be a lie if you said you didn’t miss Sandra Bullock in the past year; she’s back on the big screen where she belongs. We have a look at her latest work.

It’s no secret that Sandra Bullock had taken a break from the limelight all through 2011. It was a good time to fade away as she had just won an Oscar for The Blind Side. However, it did seem a bit rushed, as she had cancelled promotional appearances in Europe citing “unforeseen personal reasons”.

Unfortunately, she had found out with the rest of the world that long-time husband, motorcycle builder and Monster Garage host, Jessie James had been cheating on her. The rumours of infidelity took a toll on the now single mother of her adopted child. After a good few months, the actress decided to come back to what she does best, although she admits that she often wondered if she wanted to rush back to acting after her divorce. It was tough on the both of them.

“I honestly didn’t think I was in a place where I wanted to work or wanted to step out of where I was. I wasn’t prepared.

But the opportunity was louder than my head,” she revealed.

It was director Stephen Daldry’s lobbying for her to appear in Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close that convinced Bullock to return to movies.

Although there have been several theatrical releases and TV movies made about 9/11, few have stirred the soul like Also this month

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. It’s an emotional powerhouse of a film, an unforgettable and rewarding experience. Centred around a young boy’s search for answers in the wake of his father’s untimely death in the World Trade Center, director Stephen Daldry’s film is perhaps the first to deal with the matter on such a raw level.

Like her co-star Tom Hanks, Bullock is liberated from the burden of carrying a film; in that supporting role truly performs like she hasn’t in a while. Playing Hanks’ widow and the mother to heartbroken Oskar played by Thomas Horn, her work in the film is surprising — and surprisingly rewarding.

What she said She opened up to the press recently about why she chose to do a role in this movie. Who would make a comeback if it only meant 24 minutes of screen time? What made this movie call out to her?

“I don’t know how many moments and opportunities like this there’ll be — with stories like this, with directors and casts like this. It’s like the rare moments in life where all the elements are there, and they all come together for some strange or bigger reason. You can’t say no to that,” she explains.

Once you’ve seen it, you will find yourself agreeing with her.

She may not have a lot of screen time, but we still thought this one could land her that second Oscar. Watch Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close to find out if you think the same.

78 Gadgets x 91 Music x 82 Computer games x 84 Websites x 86 Satellite TV

More space

Super Talent has unveiled a new addition to their range of storage devices with the POD Mini. Equipped with a metal case, USB 3.0 connectivity and flash memory, it is no larger than a 2.5-inch hard drive.

A new style

Artist Tyree Callahan has taken a 1937 Underwood Standard typewriter and transformed it into something a little special, the Chromatic Typewriter. It allows you to type a painting onto paper using colours.

BTM February 2012 77

downtimegadgets

Vintage Frenzy Technology might never hit a standstill. That doesn’t mean we need to leave the best of the past behind. Here are some interesting new devices that have used vintage designs.

Gamers' Favourite s

Targeted at advanced gamers, Toshiba’s Qosmio X770 models are packed with the latest technologies offering an outstanding gaming performance with extremely realistic rendering. It supports 3D active shutter glasses technology and takes the mobile gaming experience to the next level.

As Real As it Gets

Editors pick!

LG’s 3D technology has once again caught the attention of global consumers through its collaboration with National Geographic to showcase the world’s first 3D image gallery. Its excellent image quality while eliminating the burden of heavy equipment has been praised. Every photographer would love to have the power of a great camera in a little phone.

Run It Off

Motorola launched the MotoActv Android companion watch for smartphones a while back. Now, developer CMW has managed to root the device and install the stock Honeycomb launcher on it. It can run all apps including YouTube and online games.

Zoom In On Style s

Lead the way in the photo and fashion stakes with the pocket friendly Ixus 230 HS from Canon; the slimmest 8x optical zoom camera. Choose from a mouth-watering palette of six on-trend, vibrant colours to suit your individual look.

78 February 2012 BTM

To The Point t

If you are the sort that has to stand in front of a crowded room, you might like this new product from Genius, called the Ring Presenter. It’s a pointing device that you wear on your finger while standing or sitting away from the computer.

An Open Tab

The Acer Iconia Tab A200 comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display and a dual core 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra2 processor. It comes with Android 3.2 Honeycomb, 8GB built-in storage, a 2 megapixel frontfacing camera and a micro SD card slot.

Minimalist Overdone

MuteWatch is as unique as can be. Tap the screen to bring up the time, swipe horizontally to access stopwatch and alarm, then swipe vertically through the digits to alter settings. It even vibrates on your wrist instead of beeping.

Back To The Future

Introducing the first camcorder to be produced by analogue producer Lomography — the Lomokino. It’s an endearingly boxy, 35 mm film camera that shoots at four frames per second and requires you to turn the film using a hand crank.

Going Retro

Originally built in 1961, this 50th anniversary version of the McIntosh MC275 has two 75W outputs and will give any sound system a massive boost. There are gold plated binding posts for clean and clear sound and you can plug in any speakers.

Light At Home s

A levitating top section floats above the matt black base of this Light-Light lamp, with electromagnets used to keep the two halves apart. A run of LEDs around the base act as the light source and a dimmer lets you adjust the intensity of the glow.

Legend in the making t

If you like to cook fruits and vegetables, but hate to peel them, the Legend Auto Peeler will be your favourite kitchen item. The circular path of the peeling blade makes it perfect for most round fruits and vegetables like apples, oranges, kiwis, tomatoes and smaller round potatoes. Available at Gajria Electronics.

BTM February 2012 79

bystanderthismonth

Yellow Chilli Restaurant Launch Under the patronage of HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, the Minister of Industry and Commerce celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor launched his famed The Yellow Chilli restaurant in Seef Mall last month.

HE Mohan Kumar, Indian Ambassador and dignitaries attended the opening which marks the franchise’s first expansion overseas

HE Dr Hassan Fakhro cuts the ribbon

Hishang, Kishore Kewalram & Sanjeev Kapoor

Jasmeet & Lubna

Jyoti, Rosie, Aysha, Sanjeev Kapoor & Jovita

Mona Almoayyed, Sanjeev Kapoor, Afnan Al Zayani & Adel Fakhro

Jassim Al Zayani, Sanjeev Kapoor, HE Dr Hassan Fakhro, HE Mohan Kumar, Mala Kumar, Shaikh Abdulla & Ahmed Essam Fakhro

Sangita & Rasila

Abdulla Fakhro & Ahmed

Abdulla Juma

Lynne Alwazzan Reception Lynne Alwazzan hosted a reception at her residence for a number of people to introduce officials from Peace X Peace, a non-profit organisation Based in Washington DC, where women’s voices are connected and amplified through their E-media and the Peace X Peace Community, a global network of peacebuilders in over 100 countries

Mona, Lydia Moore, Salwa, Kim from Peace X Peace, Shahrazad, Lynne Alwazzan, Jo, Yvonne, Norma, Anne & Gail from Peace X Peace

Mr Juma, VADM Moore, (Ret.) & Abdulrahman Alwazzan

Hussain, Hassan & Michael Jnr

80 February 2012 BTM

Hassan, Norma, Mahin, Michael, Ibrahim & Michael Snr

VADM Moore, (Ret.) & Khalid Almoayed

Liliane & Shandra

Balqees, Fareeda & Lydia

Lydia & Shirley

Kim

Mr Yateem

Gail

downtimemusic

The Bull Sees Red This month, we see a standoff between the two genders with power-packed tracks from Chevelle and powerful lyrics from Dia Frampton. Two artists don’t cut it this month, however.

Dia Frampton

Red

OF A TH LB E UM M ON TH

RATING:

WHAT’S THE STORY? Dia Frampton’s solo

debut, Red, isn’t your typical mainstream pop album, especially lyrically. The folksy, banjo-laden sabella is a note of support to her younger sister, who was dealing with a rough time in their parents’ marriage; Good Boy is about her close friend who was molested as a child. Walk Away details a woman taking revenge on her abusers.

The latter tune in particular is deceptively cheery with its jaunty whistling, church bell peals and easygoing guitar riffs.

Frampton collaborated with multiple songwriters on Red, including members of Foster the People and Florence +the Machine; as a result, the album is certainly polished.

WORTH A LISTEN? Daniel is a moving acoustic number lamenting the break-up of a relationship, while Billy the Kid is a wicked-cool synth-pop freeze and Don’t Kick the Chair is an homage to early ‘80s Madonna.

Red’s weakest spot is its stab at crossover chart success — I Will. The song sticks out like a sore thumb among all the other, more introspective tracks, simply because it feels so calibrated for maximum radio airplay.

VERDICT: While too many co-writers are often detrimental to an album, Red is pleasingly diverse.

TOP TRACKS: Isabella, Daniel and Billy the Kid. Chevelle

Hats Off to the Bull

The sixth album from the Chicago alternative hard rock trio sold 43,000 copies in the United States in its first week after release, debuting at No. 20 on The Billboard 200 chart.

The first single, Face to the Floor, with its hypnotic, grinding riff, is one of the most explosive songs of the band’s career. The track rails against corporate corruption and the likes of Bernie Madoff and others on Wall Street.

Charlotte Gainsbourg

Rapper Big Pooh

Stage Whisper

Dirty Pretty Things

Her ability to blend her audio environment is usually an asset on her albums, but with live recordings it can mean the 'sound' misses the mark. This performance, though, delivers.

This is exactly what the title implies — a flawed project that with a bit of polish would have been beautiful. It ultimately fails to meet the expectations that Pooh set for himself.

BTM February 2012 81

downtimecomputergames

Shooting for the Stars We took a look at the famed Star Wars: The Old Republic. Either we must have missed the point, or it isn’t as good as it promises to be.

NBA 2K12 (Xbox 360)

OF

TH GA E M M E ON TH

The realistic, challenging, gorgeously animated gameplay carries across a cornucopia of modes. Playing legends of the past, the stars of today, and my own personal NBA rookie are all different flavours of radical. All of these modes alone or together make for a game that any basketball fan has to pick up.

LA Noire (PS3)

Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC) RATING:

WHAT IS IT?

Play Star Wars: The Old Republic and be the hero of your own saga in a story-driven massively multiplayer online game from BioWare and LucasArts.

Explore an age thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader when war between the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire divides the galaxy. Choose to be a Jedi, a Sith, or from a variety of other classic Star Wars roles, and make decisions which define your personal story and determine your path.

This team has taken a huge risk. LA Noire may not reach the emotional heights of a game like Heavy Rain, but it’s something everyone must try out. It reaches high and almost succeeds as a brilliant new type of video game narrative.

GRAPHICS:

While still far from beautiful, it is definitely recognisable; not just as The Old Republic, but as a part of the Star Wars universe. The best example of this is the range of Bounty Hunter gear. Sith and Jedi classes seem to have got the short end of the stick though. Space missions can be particularly spectacular looking.

Rushing through frozen asteroid fields or zig-zagging above a massive, blue planet has provided some of the most breathtaking visual moments.

GAMEPLAY:

Control is far too limited in space missions. Your movement is restricted to a single 2D plane, and you can’t adjust your craft’s speed. Moving along the 2D plane and a 3D environment at the same time just makes it look like your ship is wobbling through space. There’s also very little challenge on offer in these missions.

There’s no opportunity to take a different path on replays. Enemies tend to act more like targets than something out to get you.

VERDICT: It isn’t bad, but it definitely could have been better.

82 February 2012 BTM

Rage (PC) The great controls and useful weapon upgrades help make Rage’s shooting parts a lot of fun, but the storyline fails to create any real tension and the game’s characters, friendly and hostile, never do or say anything memorable. It isn’t revolutionary, but is an expertly crafted shooter.

dvds

OF

D ONT DV M

E TH

H

The Guard RATING: DIRECTED BY: John Michael McDonagh STARRING: Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle

THE PLOT:

Sergeant Gerry Boyle is a small-town Irish cop with a confrontational personality, a subversive sense of humour, a dying mother, a fondness for prostitutes, and absolutely no interest whatsoever in the international cocaine-smuggling ring that has brought straight-laced FBI agent Wendell Everett to his door. When the smuggling ring lands up in his town he finds his world turned upside down, to an extent that it might wipe him off the face of the Earth.

WORTH WATCHING? Wry humour isn’t a favourite among

most viewers; but film buffs know for a fact that it is the best kind. The movie takes some getting used to and slowly you begin to see that your viewpoint flows with the plot. Once you’ve got past the slow pace, you are hooked.

Don’t expect the usual over-dramatised scenes of mafia flicks. It’s as simple a tale as can be, with an interesting twist.

VERDICT: A movie like this one comes by very rarely. You either love it or you hate it.

The Ides of March The casting is probably the only good thing about this movie; anyone else could have been in their place and it’d still be one where you end up shrugging by the time the credits roll up. It took patience. Although told well, it could have had a better storyline.

Final Destination 5 Four yawns and a snore will not do justice to explaining how horridly boring this thriller ended up. If you’re in it for the gore and the suspense, you’ll feel like you got free candyfloss and a bubble machine. Four would have been more than enough!

BTM February 2012 83

downtimewebsites

Watch, Learn, Write Did you miss an episode of your favourite show? Can’t figure out how to build a birdhouse? Feeling nosy? We’ve got websites that should help all of you.

SITEON EB M W THE

OF

TH Instructables.com

Hulu.com RATING:

When you need step-by-step instructions for just about anything, visit Instructables.com. It’s the ultimate do-ityourself website for everything from cooking to building rockets, complete with images, diagrams and even videos.

The content is user-provided, so you can post your own Instructable on whatever it is you make best.

This is a web-based documentation platform where passionate people share what they do and how they do it to learn from and collaborate with others. In August 2011, they joined Autodesk, a leader in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software. To create a new Instructable or comment on someone else’s, you need to become a member.

WHAT IS IT?

Remember the last time you could watch a TV show in its actual timeslot on an actual TV? Probably not. That’s why there’s Hulu.com. The site offers a free stream of both TV shows, and movies, as well as episodes of web-based shows. It allows users to catch up on episodes and check out shows they would have otherwise missed.

THE GOOD: Hulu gives users the ability to customise their viewing experience online.

They can watch favourites or discover new shows anytime. The search feature helps users find any premium video online even if it is not directly available on Hulu.com. It is easy to use and share and does not require a download of any software. The clipping feature allows users to select a portion of the video they would like to share.

THE BAD: Granted, it’s not going to run every episode and it doesn’t have every show

there ever was. Users need a Flash 10.1.53.64-enabled computer. Those on the creating end might not like that any full-length episodes or clips can be shared via e-mail or embeds on other websites, blogs and social networking pages.

VERDICT: It offers enough to keep you from feeling left out of the water-cooler conversations.

84 February 2012 BTM

Lettersofnote.com If you still believe in taking the time to write a real letter to people who matter and take great pleasure in receiving one in kind, LettersofNote.com will hold a powerful appeal. The site scans and posts missives from celebrities, which range from the mundane to the outright hilarious. Each scanned missive comes with a transcript, in case the handwriting is hard to read. It’s a wonderful reminder of the power of the written word.

TH

OF

TH E

ON

M OV M IE

movies

Sherlock Holmes RATING: DIRECTED BY: Guy Ritchie STARRING: Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law

THE PLOT: With Dr John Watson about to marry and end their

partnership, a disconsolate Sherlock Holmes occupies his time investigating the schemes of his arch-enemy, Professor James Moriarty. However, when Moriarty warns that he considers The Watsons a legitimate target for his retaliation against the detective, Holmes must save them and get John involved in one last case. To do so, they join the Roma lady Madam Simza Heron’s quest to find her missing brother, Renee, who may be the key to defeating Moriarty.

WORTH WATCHING?

A Game of Shadows sews closed the holes left in the patchwork cloak that was the narrative of the 2009 film. The movie contains a number of standout action sequences, explosions and secondary fights, all of which gel to make this unlike any previous Sherlock Holmes adventure. However, it’s not as overpowering as in the first movie.

VERDICT: It feels like it was adapted from a graphic novel, even though it was not.

The Iron Lady To the film’s credit, Margaret Thatcher is never deified. Quite the opposite, in fact. Director Phyllida Lloyd masterfully handles the breadth of the film, as well as the time-skipping nature of the material. It’s hard to know if you’re being moved by the film, the performance, or the memory of a vital and divisive PM.

New Year’s Eve It is a dreary plod through the sands of time until finally the last grain has trickled through the hourglass of cinematic sludge. How is it possible to assemble more than two dozen stars in a movie and find nothing interesting for any of them to do? The film’s assembled haphazardly, reeling from one lacklustre tale to another.

BTM February 2012 85

downtimesatTV WHEN? Every Thursday and Friday on OSN First HD/OSN First

MOVIES

The Fighter Mark Wahlberg and Amy Adams, and Academy Award winners Christian Bale and Melissa Leo star in this remarkable film.

Based on a true story, two brothers, against all odds, come together to train for a historic title that has the power to reunite their fractured family and give their hard-luck town what it’s been waiting for — pride.

The drama follows the story of boxer ‘Irish’ Micky Ward’s unlikely road to the world light welterweight title. His Rockylike rise was shepherded by half-brother Dicky, a boxer-turnedtrainer on the verge of being knocked out by drugs and crime.

Dubbed by many as the best sports movie of the decade, the biographical sports drama film was directed by David O. Russell. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including the titles of ‘best picture’ and ‘best director’.

SERIES/SPECIALS

American Idol (Season 11) Emmy Award-winner; America’s biggest talent show returns for an eleventh season. With The X-Factor making a successful debut in 2011, American Idol will be pulling out all the stops to ensure it retains its TV talent show crown as the search for the next idol begins.

So far, judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson have gone through a whirlwind of auditions. Catch the show to see the good, the great and the completely ridiculous. It will reach three interesting stages this month. February 10 will see the first Hollywood episode after the auditions. The 24th of the month will see the announcement of the semi-finalists and the 29th will be an extra-special one given it’s the show’s 400th episode.

WHEN? OSN Premiere/OSN Movies HD, February 10

Black Swan

WHEN? Starts February 8 on OSN Comedy

WHEN? Starts February 16 on OSN First

WHEN? Starts February 8 on OSN Comedy

Angry Boys (Season 1)

Smallville (Season 10)

The Closer (Season 7)

Writer/performer/director Chris Lilley, creator of the outrageous comedy Summer Heights High, returns to HBO in the new series Angry Boys. This ‘mockumentary’ series explores the issues faced by young males in the 21st century.

86 February 2012 BTM

It is the final season of the Emmy Award-winning series.

The show follows a young Clark Kent who struggles to find his place in the world as he learns to harness his alien powers for the good while dealing with the typical troubles of teenage life in Smallville.

Deputy police chief Brenda Johnson runs the priority homicide division of the LAPD in an unorthodox style. Her innate ability to read people and obtain confessions helps her and her team solve the city’s toughest and most sensitive cases.

Real Steel

This movie, directed by Darren Aronofsky, takes a thrilling and at times terrifying journey through the psyche of Nina, played by Natalie Portman, a young ballerina whose starring role as the swan queen turns out to be a part for which she becomes frighteningly perfect.

Real Steel is a riveting, whiteknuckle action ride that will leave you cheering. Hugh Jackman stars as Charlie Kenton, a washed-up fighter turned small-time promoter.

When he hits rock bottom, he reluctantly teams up with his estranged son to build and train a championship contender.

WHEN? OSN Premiere/OSN Movies HD, February 24

WHEN? OSN Box Office 1, February 24 to March 1 Real Steel

bystanderthismonth

McDonald's BDF Outlet Opening McDonald's Bahrain held a celebration to mark the opening of the McDonald's BDF outlet, situated near the BDF Hospital last month. At the event, the company presented donations to the Bahrain Down Syndrome Society and Bahrain Mobility Rick, Edney, Ali, Jamal, Abdulla Fakhro, Sham, Sameera Regie & Alex

Lunalyn, Farah, Vivian, Rochelle, Elma & Rahim

Mohammed

Alex, Rock, Khalid, Jamil, Abdulla Fakhro & Edney

Buthaina & Nada

Zainab

Zainab

Lathifa

88 February 2012 BTM

Carl, Alex, Jamil, Sameera, Sham, Ahmed, Abdulla Fakhro, Rick & Edeny

Edney, Regie & Elma

Club Buffalo New Year Eve Party Club Buffalo, the popular watering hole at the California Hotel, Juffair, saw a number of guests enjoying the festivities as they celebrated bringing in the New Year

Antony

Club Buffalo resident band

Jameel & Chelsea

Bryan & Eric Jimmy, Karen, Jennie, Ian, Julie, Bo & Andy

Karen, Jean & Farrah

Danial & Hamad

Amanda & Cassie

Breann, Rave, Kristin & Cassie

Chelsea & Sam

Shannon, Lindsay & Chelsea

Evin & Gen

BTM February 2012 89

bystanderthismonth

Dublin New Year's Eve Party Dublin, the Irish watering hole at Ramee Palace, Juffair hosted a New Year's Eve party

Souman, Alex, Debbie, Janelle, Thomas, Felix, Faious & Rasheed

Aksana, Mariana, Nancy, May, Barbia & Sheryl

Cath, Rhea & Kamille

Matt, Elara & Marissa

Italian, reinvented.

Café Italia, our award-winning restaurant has a stylish modern yet casual atmosphere. Café Italia prides itself in serving authentic Italian cuisine; Beech wood-fired Neapolitan Pizza and has an extensive variety of fine beverages.

90 February 2012 BTM

Juan & Ashleigh

Chelsea & Felix

Jeff, Edith, Levi & Alan

CAFÉ ITALIA PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT Location : Road 3825, off Sh.Isa Avenue, Adliya Telephone : 17 744 774 Fax : 17 742 229 e-mail : Ciadliya@alialsharif.com Smoking & non smoking area available

Nate & Kelsey

Dana & Shannon

Shalini & Oswald Christmas Dinner Shalini & Oswald hosted a festive dinner for a number of their friends at the poolside of their compound in Saar

Oswald & Shalini

Hilda & Madhumita

Are you ready for the next level?

Created by engineering professionals, JVC’s unique light and airy TV cabinet design represents a synthesis of aesthetics and performance. Even tough packed with advanced technologies, the slim silhouttes of these TVs combine a sense of airiness with a certain sharpness that is accentuated by the distictive ornamental chrome line below the panel, which smartly emphasizes the thin, appealing contours. And the metallic chrome pillar on the TV stand acts to mirror interior details around the set to not help the TV blend in better with any ambience but also enhance the sensation of it floating in the air. Beautifully styled and offering superb entertainiment potential, JVC TVs go far beyond the ordinary.

Malini & Madhukar

Savitha & Carol

LED TVs Hamid & Shankar

Manoj, Irwin & Reggie

Rhea, Rebecca, Caroline & Raoul

Diagonal

Gavin, Lisa & Aaron

LT-46G20

46-inch Full HD LED Backlight TV

Denzil, Shalini, Sarina, Denzil & Derick

Leander

100Hz LED Backlight 1,920 x 1,080 FHD Panel

USB 2.0 for Movie Playback Touch Sensor Swiveling Stand

Gajria Tower (next to Dana Mall) Tel: 17 556939 Yateem Centre, Manama Tel: 17 225356

Raina, Rose & Olivia

Rhea & Ethan

Keylan

BTM February 2012 91

bystanderthismonth

Mövenpick Hotel New Year's Eve Party A number of people enjoyed music, a live band and exquisite food as they brought in the new year at the Mövenpick Hotel's New Year's Eve party last month

Dean, Barbara, Cindy, Deanida & Emilee

Jessie, Marites & Philip

Jamelah, Stefen, Henry & Dinah

Heinz, Karen, Taciana & Reinhold

Francois & Christina

Lena, Daniella & Paula

Raul, Lucas & Raul

Always at your disposal

John & Louise

Daniella & Simon

Herrat & Mandeleine

Emily & Brandon

Offers available: 1. Circuit training session: kickboxing, mixed exercise for punching techniques, move, cardio, stamina and strength exercise….

2. Personal training: A) Fitness programs: burning fats, metabolic acceleration, strengthening muscles B) Recreation program: a combination of different exercise to raise the basic physiological functions of your body.

C) Kick-boxing training: punching technique, movement, stamina, strength...

Personal training programs intended for age groups from 7 to 75 years based strictly on individual health assessment.

Facilities available: Cardiovascular equipment, isotonic equipment, exercise equipments like olympic bench, weights and dumbbells, adjustable benches and racks. Plus jacuzzi, steam room and swimming pool.

92 February 2012 BTM

For further information visit us at Juffair Fitness Center, next to Bahrain Medical Society, Juffair.

Or call us: Mobile: 33002592, Tel: 77072220, E-mail: jfcenter@hotmail.com

Sunil & Alka Gupta Wedding Anniversary Alka Gupta & Sunil Kumar Gupta celebrated their Silver wedding anniversary at the Oasis Hall, Ramee International Hotel, Juffair.

The party was attended by a number of their friends and relatives

Chopra & Dr Jain

Sunil & Alka

Akshay, Swati, Alka, Dr Aditi & Sunil Gupta

Neelu, Alka & Sasi

Dr Alka, Sumati & Dr Sanjay

Rakesh & Narinder

Aryan

Akshaya & Apoorvee

Lokesh, Priya, Alka, Neelu, Sushma & Narinder

Manvee & Priya

A Taste of Class

Open 7 days a week from 12:30 pm to 12 midnight.

The Seafood Market & Restaurant at Sheza Tower Hotel offers its guests the perfect meal tailored to your taste everytime.

The guests dining are simply pampered with the variety of cooking styles including Bahraini, Lebanese, Egyptian, Moroccan, Turkish, Chinese, Thai & European.

Live entertainment by Calipso Trio to serenade and entertain guests with a variety of chart songs and salsa vocal music.

For reservations Tel. +973 17533336; Fax +973 17532346 BTM February 2012 93

bystanderthismonth

Iro Smith Greek Get Together Aiming to create a Greek Community Club in Bahrain, Iro Smith hosted a get together at her residence in Abraj Al Lulu.

Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos, Honorary Consul, Consulate of the Hellenic Republic also attended the event

Tassos & Kostas

Konstantinos Pallikaropoulos & Iro Smith

Maria & Eleana

Maria, Jehan, Irene, Maria, Iro & Katia

Chris

Costis, Ron, Steve & Peter

Demetra & Hamza

Iro Smith with guests

Despina, Irene & Maria

Amwaj Marina Market The Amwaj Marina Market was held at the Amwaj Marina last month. A wide assortment of products and merchandise was on display, clothing, jewellery, shoes, children’s books, electronics, decorations, furniture, an assortment of traditional arts and crafts, as well as paintings. There were also stalls selling food and lots of entertainment for kids

Ameera & Annie

Dona & Chrys

Francine, Marise, Pat, Silvana, Lidia & Lily

Bern, Polin & Allison

94 February 2012 BTM

Christine

Sheila

Marwa & Sara

BBK, Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, announced that the winner of the BMW 323 car in the BBK Loans Promotion is Hassan Ali Hassan Khadhim, a 32 year old Bahraini father of two. The prize was awarded as part of BBK’s combined loans promotional campaign which ran between July and November 2011. The keys to the car were handed over to Hassan

by Axel Hofmann, head of retail banking at BBK at the Euro Motors showroom in Sitra last month. Also present at the presentation were Reinaldo Moarry, head of retail marketing at BBK, Nada Bubshait, BBK’s marketing communications manager, & Ala Radwan Makki, BMW general sales manager At the Budget Rent A Car, annual Conference for Europe Middle East and Africa (EMEA) held recently in Dublin, Budget Rent A Car Bahrain was presented an “Award” for establishing a strong hold in the region and increasing sales during the recent crisis in the kingdom. Seen here are, Olivier Van Marcke the general manager Budget EMEA,Mohammed Fakhro, director Budget Bahrain, Benty Jose, operations manager Budget Bahrain, & John McNicholas, vice president Budget EMEA

Zayani Motors, the official dealers of Mitsubishi, Peugeot and MG named Thamatoor Gopalakrishnan as the ‘Employee of the Month’ for January, 2012, seen here with Mohammed Zaki, the GM

Bahrain City Centre announced Grand Prize winners of its Winter Wonderland campaign– a three-day ski trip to Faraya, Lebanon, as well as a VIP Royal Suite package at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre. Seen here, one of the winners with BCC officials Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons is poised to make yet another major investment, as the top management approved the construction of a new business tower for Ashrafs W.L.L – one of the leading business houses within the group.

Ashrafs W.L.L which is completing the 100th year of its business operation in 2013 will celebrate this momentous milestone in the new business tower being built in Hoora, next to their existing store. Seen here, Amal Almoayyed, executive director, Ashrafs W.L.L, Hala Almoayyed, executive director, Almoayyed Contracting, & Mazen Al Umran, managing director, MACE Consultants at the official contract signing of the Ashrafs Tower construction

BTM February 2012 95

motoringthismonth

Re-engineering a Master The iconic Porsche 911 Carrera, highly anticipated by sports car aficionados and now available in its seventh generation, has undergone a complete redesign.

Behbehani Brothers launched the latest versions of the Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S coupé at an exclusive gala evening at the end of last month.

The new 911 Carrera, which many said could never be bettered, now features a flatter, stretched silhouette, exciting contours and precisely designed details. Its wheelbase is now 100 mm longer, sits lower to the ground and consequently offers even better handling dynamics for 911 connoisseurs.

“This is a moment which marks a new era for our brand; the 911 Carrera is the re-definition of what a sports car should be,” commented Antony Raymond, general manager at the Porsche Centre Bahrain, at the launch. “No fewer than 90 per cent of all components are either new or have been fundamentally revised.

The aim of building ‘the best 911 ever’ has been fulfilled.”

Offering a blistering top speed of 289 km/h for the standard

Also this month

version, delivering 350 hp from its 3.4-litre engine,, it is the first passenger car in the world to feature seven-speed manual transmission. It’s also the first sports car equipped with an auto start/stop function; electro-mechanical power steering and a new ‘coasting function’, in vehicles equipped with the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK).

Moreover, the new electro-mechanical power steering offers even better precision and response, while increasing efficiency and reducing general fuel consumption.

The Carrera S, featuring a 3.8-litre boxer engine, produces 400 hp and manages to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Pressing the ‘Sport Plus’ button on the optional sport chrono package cuts that to 4.1 seconds.

The all-new, lightweight body is an intelligent aluminium-steel construction, providing an overall weight reduction of up to 45 kg, and significantly greater rigidity. Aerodynamic optimisation measures, including a wider, variably extending rear spoiler, means the lift of the new 911 Carrera is further reduced.

But not only on the outside has the iconic sports car been transformed. Porsche’s design team from Weissach created a completely new interior based on cues from the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted shift lever located especially close to the steering wheel in typical motor sport fashion.

First deliveries of the new Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S coupé start on February 11, with basic retail prices for the 911 Carrera starting at BD34,600 for the coupé and BD41,000 for the S coupé. E Call 17 459-911.

When? February 2 Event? Open track day Venue? BIC Take up the chance to see how fast your car will really go.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? February 6 Event? Drag and drift Venue? BIC Enjoy giving your car or motorbike a spin on the drag strip.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? February 8 Event? BDRC testing Venue? BIC Watch your favourite racers test and tune their rides.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? February 9 Event? BDRC Venue? BIC Round five of the Bahrain Drag Racing Championships.

E Call 17 450-000.

When? February 11 Event? Festival Venue? BIC The National Racing Festival will be a day out for the entire family.

E Call 17 450-000.

98 x Wheels - 99 x Showcase

BTM February 2012 97

motoringwheels

Smooth Operator DAVID M. ROBERTSON

When you see someone driving a McLaren you’ll know this is an individual who appreciates the value of the finer things in life, for what they are and not simply because they can afford it.

Model McLaren MP4-12C Model year 2012 Engine type 3.8-litre, V8 engine, twin-turbo Displacement 3,799 cc Horsepower 592 hp @ 7,000 rpm Torque 600 Nm @ 3,000 rpm Transmission Seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 3.3 seconds Top speed 330 km/h

98 February 2012 BTM

The fine print in the literature on McLaren’s MP4-12C states it has been developed without all the usual compromises associated with a high-end sports car. One glance at the exterior and it’s immediately obvious how this has been translated into practice.

The MP4-12C is more than simply smooth; it’s refined. There’s little chance you’ll find a sunbed-tanned hulk, with shirt buttons undone to almost the waistline and dripping with gold jewellery, emerging from this sports car! The design is the antithesis of conventional wisdom as to how such cars should look and feel.

There are, for instance, no aggressive lines and styling that have testosterone written all over them; instead, like the rest of the car, there’s a seamless flow from the front, down the sides and through to the rear end. In fact, McLaren have gone out of their way to exclude ‘features’ simply for cosmetic purposes.

A standout element is the weight of the car, which has been substantially reduced through the use of technologies normally associated with an F1 car. The ultra-light carbon fibre chassis, the radical MonoCell at the structural heart of the MP4-12C, weighs in at only 75 kg.

It’s not just the acceleration that’s impacted by carbon fibre components; the braking and handling performance is enhanced, as is fuel economy and emissions. The car’s incredible stiffness also results in more precise steering. This was demonstrated by trying to drive the car ‘badly’; the MP4-12C takes control when the driver appears to have failed to do so!

Another standout feature is the simplicity and vertical design of the centre console, allowing for far greater room inside for the driver and passenger than otherwise might be the case.

Unlike the often complicated routine to switch driving modes, McLaren strips away the thought process with buttons for normal, sport and track options that are easily accessed.

The sound of the engine when in normal (everyday, street driving) mode illustrates the refined aurora of the MP4-12C. Switch into sport mode and the racing pedigree immediately springs into life; the responsiveness of the car quickens and the engine purrs in delight at the more aggressive setting.

When acquiring a luxury item, whether it’s a car, a watch or even eating out at an upmarket restaurant, what you choose more often than not delivers a statement about your own sense of style. There will be no doubt as to the authenticity of a McLaren driver.

McLaren is distributed in the Kingdom by Al Ghassan Motors, who will shortly open a McLaren-only showroom in Moda Mall.

Average pricing is expected to be around BD107,000, with a range of options pushing that up to BD130,000.

showcase

EURO MOTORS

Eye-catching Roadster Spontaneous, open and irresistible, the new MINI Roadster makes its entry this month, offering a further twist to the model range available in the Kingdom.

The sixth model to join the MINI portfolio, the compact roadster in MINI style is the first open-top two-seater in the brand’s history and embodies sportiness and spontaneous urban driving fun under the open sky.

The reproduction of the hallmark MINI design within the proportions of a roadster gives this MINI an unmistakable and irresistible charisma. Even with the roof closed the MINI Roadster displays an elegant, sweeping silhouette, with the transition from soft-top to rear end highlighting its characteristic three-box design particularly clearly.

At the same time, the new model wears its brand identity on its sleeve thanks to unmistakable design features like the hexagonal contours of its radiator grille. The black border around the lower part of the body, chrome trim strips and surrounds enhance the sporty looks of this MINI. So do the large circular headlights, vertically-stacked rear lights positioned on the outer extremes of the rear end, and the eye-catching surrounds of the side indicators on the front side panels.

To further highlight the new Roadster’s edgy look, a range of two non-metallic and six metallic paint shades will be available for the exterior while the roof remains in black, in keeping with British roadster tradition. Sport stripes, available in three colours for the bonnet, boot lid and rear apron, allow owners to add an extra personal touch.

The interior is just as eye-catching. The customary MINI variety of seat and upholstery variants includes ultra-exclusive piped sports seats in the colour shade Toffy. Added to which, black sports seats are also available in punch leather with beige-coloured perforations. Trim strips can be ordered in any

of six variants, while an extra Chilli Red option is also offered for the MINI John Cooper Works Roadster.

A choice of five colour lines is also available, and MINI lovers may likewise choose to explore the additional, extremely exclusive interior design options offered by the ‘MINI Yours’ range.

The Roadster underlines its premium character with a highquality range of standard equipment, including air conditioning, speed-sensitive steering assistance, electrical side mirrors, park distance control, height-adjustable seats and an audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection.

Levels of comfort and individuality can be further enhanced by specifying attractive options such as Xenon adaptive headlights, black headlight housing, comfort access and the ‘Always Open’ timer. And the Roadster also offers in-car use of innovative MINI Connected infotainment and communications functions.

The latest generation 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engines, with TwinPower Turbo technology, will be available as the John Cooper Works (211 hp), Cooper S (184 hp) and Cooper (122 hp).

E Call 17 750-750.

BTM February 2012 99

motoringshowcase E. K. KANOO

Reinvented Camry The best Toyota Camry ever built retains the DNA of a car that is acclaimed for its superb quality, durability and reliability.

The new Camry 2012 has evolved to shape the next generation of comfort, performance and style, making it the best-ever built. It’s available in three grades, SE, GLX, and GL, all of which are equipped with a powerful 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, 181 hp dual VTT-i engine that offers a fantastic drive.

The excellent matching of the super-intelligent six-speed automatic transmission with the engine produces outstanding driving performance and top fuel efficiency. Coupled with the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system, with vehicle speed sensing, this helps to realise an optimal steering feeling through the range of gears selected. In addition, 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels add a sporty and youthful feeling to the vehicle’s presence on the roads.

“The new Camry represents a futuristic saloon car that fulfils all the needs of the smart driver, and indulges him with an artistically-crafted dashboard and a progressive sporty exterior,” says Toyota and Lexus brand manager at Ebrahim K. Kanoo, Ayman Shehadeh.

“The new Camry integrates the top levels of safety performance in its class to give true peace of mind. With features like the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) that helps prevent wheel slip, and the front, side and curtain SRS airbags that help reduce the impact to occupants in a collision.”

Drive in style The feeling of contemporary luxury is created through the refinement of the driving position layout in the new Camry, which provides information at a glance and enables intuitive operation.

The spacious, quiet cabin is also very welcoming and comfortable and, with attention to quality in every detail, the ample trunk space and the availability of 10 colours adds to the appeal of the car.

100 February 2012 BTM

Lots of applications and features were added to make Camry lead the way with the highest standards of comfort and safety, such as the navigation system that guides to the destination required with clear and easy-to-read graphics. The camera integrated into the rear of the vehicle provides a smooth reversing operation when parking, and the smart entry and start system helps in adding more fun and convenience to the driving experience.

Moreover, Toyota has earned a reputation for offering best value automotive experience through Ebrahim K. Kanoo’s service centres available throughout the Kingdom. To test drive the new Camry today, visit the Toyota showroom in Sitra.

E Call 17 730-730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh.

The Toyota Warranty Through continuous research and development, Toyota vehicles continue to have the highest levels of quality, durability and reliability in the world, which is made possible only by the strict quality control check during production. This continuous testing and development ensures a promise of a comfortable and hassle-free drive.

Similarly, through state-of-the-art facilities and advanced equipment, Ebrahim K. Kanoo continues to offer the best after-sales services in Bahrain. As of January 1 this year, Ebrahim K. Kanoo is offering all Toyota passenger models a standard four-year/150,000km warranty, whichever comes first, enhancing the experience of owning a new Toyota.

Y. K. ALMOAYYED & SONS

Inspiring Power An alternative five-star travel experience is available in the shape of the all-new Infiniti QX.

Combining a 400 hp 5.6-litre V8 engine with Infiniti’s VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift), and an electronically-controlled seven-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control, the 2012 all-new Infiniti QX offers an inspired powerful performance.

The design of this latest QX is more than dynamic; it’s capable of transporting up to eight adults and their belongings, thanks to its class-leading second row legroom and powerfolding third row seats.

Moreover, the bold front chrome grille is flanked by automatic on/off bi-functional Xenon headlights, with windshield wiper interlock and integrated front fog lights. The adaptive front lighting system, with auto-levelling headlights and headlight washers, is also available.

Other exterior features include LED tail lights, heated, powerfolding side view mirrors with integrated turn signals, courtesy lights and reverse tilt-down feature, roof rails, power sliding tinted glass moon roof and a power rear lift gate.

Inside the QX Interior features of the new QX include as standard the Infiniti hard drive navigation system, ‘Around View’ monitor and Bose two-channel, 13-speaker premium audio system. Its new hydraulic body motion control system helps reduce body lean while turning for a more comfortable ride.

Included among the new QX’s standard premium entertainment and technology features are an eight-inch WVGA colour touch-screen display, the Infiniti controller for

use with the vehicle information systems as well as comfort and convenience features. The Bluetooth hands-free phone system is standard, as is USB connection for use with iPod interface or other compatible devices.

Technology features The new Infiniti QX also offers a range of advanced technology systems, including Infiniti’s lane departure warning and prevention systems. A new blind spot warning system is also included. Other technological features available are the advanced intelligent cruise control, distance control assist, intelligent brake assist, with forward collision warning, and front pre-crash seat belts.

Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons, the exclusive distributor for Infiniti in the Kingdom, offers a ‘Guest Drive’ option, to take the QX out for a personal experience.

E Call 17 732-732.

BTM February 2012 101

motoringshowcase

KIA MOTORS

Geared Around You When you are looking for a brand that offers value for money, then Kia has a range of models that you are likely to find more than appealing.

102 February 2012 BTM

While popular and competing models of other brands have a generation older gearbox and features, the Kia Cerato boasts a six-speed transmission, generating higher torque even at higher speeds and delivering smooth power with excellent fuel efficiency. This translates into better performance, even with five passengers on board and a trunk loaded with or groceries!

The Cerato advantage does not end here; the design by German automotive designer Peter Schreyer, is packed full of features to accommodate a modern lifestyle. On board you will find USB and iPod connections and audio controls on the steering wheel.

Precision steering coupled with adherence to European safety standards ensure the driver and passengers can enjoy the ride in the full knowledge they are protected against other drivers and poor weather conditions. Innovative technology in the Cerato also includes features you might normally expect to see on luxury marquees; smart keys, a push button start, cruise control and paddles for shifting gears. There’s also a camera to assist with reversing and parking sensors.

All this is supported by Kia’s unrivalled five-year unlimited mileage warranty. It’s not surprising, therefore, that the brand has been the recipient of numerous industry awards in recent years. During 2011, for example, three of the Korean carmakers models won coveted European Red Dot Design Awards.

Additionally, the new Optima hybrid won the first Guinness Book of Records Highest Mileage Achievement award!

Kia is sold in Bahrain by A.A. Bin Hindi at their showroom is in the heart of Manama. Friendly sales staff with a procustomer attitude, the Cerato is available for a test drive any time. With prices starting at BD5,600, the Cerato offers outstanding value for money. E Call 17 408-800 or email kiasales@ binhindi.com.

AHMED ZAYANI & SONS

Make it a Jeep!

Offering great deals on the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Compass, the iconic Jeep 4x4 capability and adventure is now more affordable than ever.

Ahmed Zayani & Sons has a host of offers to turn your head and to make this the ‘Year of the Jeep’.

“Starting at just BD13,200, the Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers acclaimed refinement and features that drivers will appreciate both on the road and off,” says Jeffrey Barrett, general manager of the automotive division at Ahmed Zayani & Sons. “With more than 30 global accolades from an array of opinion-leading organisations, including the ‘Mid-Size SUV’ award in the 2011 Middle East Motor Awards, it’s the most-awarded SUV ever.”

The Grand Cherokee is available with two 4x4 systems, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II, together with a choice of a 290 hp 3.6-litre Pentastar engine or the legendary 360 hp 5.7litre HEMI V8, with fuel saver technology. This allows the engine to operate economically on four cylinders, or use the power of all eight cylinders, when needed.

It also features an array of infotainment technologies for driver safety and passenger enjoyment. The features enable drivers to safely communicate, navigate and select entertainment options using advanced voice recognition controls. Passengers can stay entertained with a multitude of features, including Uconnect Navigation and Uconnect Phone.

Setting your compass Following the design cues of the Grand Cherokee, the Jeep Compass, starting at just BD8,500 (including insurance, registration and underseal) offers a unique blend of premium styling, capability, efficiency and value that is unmatched in the

Jeep Compass

compact-SUV segment. Its proven 2.4-litre engine produces 172 hp and 224 Nm of torque, while dual variable-valve timing (VVT) helps optimise the torque curve at all speeds and produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. There’s also a host of interior refinements, and improved ride and handling characteristics in all conditions, courtesy of upgraded steering and suspension systems. It offers a unique blend of premium styling, capability, efficiency and value that is unmatched in the compact SUV segment, delivering the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car.

The latest Compass also boasts more than 30 safety and security features, including standard side-curtain air bags, electronic stability programme, electronic roll mitigation, curtain air bags for all rows and available front-seat-mounted side air bags.

“The Jeep Compass offers a credible 4x4 to buyers who are looking to downsize from larger models,” adds Jeffrey. “The Jeep name has unrivalled credentials and the Compass now has a true premium feel. With a high level of specification normally only found in larger cars, plus an available five-year/150,000-km extended warranty, the competitively-priced Compass makes owning a Jeep more attractive than ever before.” E Call 17 238-822.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

BTM February 2012 103

bystanderthismonth

Smug & Rahel Wedding Smug & Rahel celebrated their wedding with friends at the St Christopher's Cathedral in Manama

Rahel, Rev Christopher Butt & Smug

Smug, Sara & Rahel

Hanan

Archiebold & Hassan

Russell, Craig, Smug, Archiebald & Mike

Rahel & Smug

Marcus & Abigail

Elham & Mohammed

Ben & Gillian

Luke & Wendy

Aysha

Craig & Mariam

Roshan & Joyce Wedding Roshan & Joyce Fernandes celebrated their wedding with family & friends at Mumbai last month

Roshan & Joyce

Hilary & Joyce

Brides parents

The 1st dance

Hilary & Nisha

Grooms' parents

Michelle, Pearly, Hilary & Annabel

Party people

Bennigan's Christmas Eve Party To celebrate the festive season, Bennigan's at the Al Safir Hotel, Juffair, hosted a Christmas Eve party for a number of guests

104 February 2012 BTM

Italiana, Jaypee, Mariel, Marivic & Cynthia

Latifa, Ebrahim & Job

Patrick, Peter, Lilia & Aster

diningthismonth

Love is in the Air Fret not if you are a few hours away from February 14 and still can’t decide where to take your date for that intimate dinner. Here’s a round-up that should make it easier to choose.

Paul Bakery and Restaurant comes forward with irresistible temptations this month. Impress your loved one with the gâteau au chocolat et banane or the meringue à la framboise.

Taking a different route is Elite Resort and Spa who will host an Arabian buffet on February 16 at the Al Noor Tent at BD20. On Valentine’s Day, at Elite Seef Residence, Il Giardino turns into an abode of romance with live entertainment, dinner and a bottle of rosé at BD25 per couple.

Meanwhile, over at Elite Crystal Hotel in Juffair, their all-day dining venue, La Cascada offers a lavish buffet with a complementary drink at BD25 per couple.

Spend the evening at the Italian venue at InterContinental Regency, Medzo, and indulge in a supper set to excite your senses at BD32++ per couple including a glass of bubbly. You could also celebrate Valentine’s Day with a sizzling dinner and a glass of bubbly at Legendz SteakHouse here at BD38++ per couple.

Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at Mondo in the Diplomat Radisson Blu carefully put together by their chef. We hear there are oysters on the menu. Another Italian venue, Fiamma, located in Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq has a magnificent fourcourse meal on offer along with live music.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir picks it up a level with its fiveAlso this month

course menu and a bottle of champagne for BD120++ per couple at the exclusive Boudoir lounge. The Mezzanine lounge offers each couple their own ‘pod’ where they’ll be served a three-course meal and a glass of sparkling wine at BD35++ per person. Mövenpick Hotel offers a remarkable romantic setting for lovers and the chance to win a trip to Beirut.

Savoy Café and Khan Al Marjan at Al Safir Hotel also go full out with musical performances on this night. The set menus at Soie and Al Safir Restaurant in Sheraton Hotel are quite enticing as well.

Rogina Restaurant at Pars International Hotel joins the fun with a twist. Here, you can indulge in authentic Lebanese cuisine and the ladies get a complimentary rose. Fuji Sushi Bar and Seafood Market patrons wait all year to see what’s on the menu on Valentine’s Day at this one-of-a-kind restaurant in Sheza Tower; 2012 seems just as promising as it always has proven to be.

Give your loved one a night to remember with the unique Bushido experience on February 14 as they guide you through a culinary journey that begins with a toast of champagne at BD35 per person.

The menu at Camelot is quite alluring with items like baba soaked in kirsch with pistachio custard, griotte cherries compote and chocolate truffle for dessert. Aroma Café and Block 338 also seem to be in the mood to celebrate love. Priced at BD25++, the evening at Café Italia promises to be a treat for romantics. Join Casa Mexicana for a three-course dinner at BD25 including a welcome drink. Awash with Valentine’s Day-themed décor, Trader Vic’s has a more than a four-course set menu on offer.

When? February 1-20 Event? Food festival Venue? It’s Mirchi, Ramee International It’s time for succulent kebabs, tender meats and steaming biryani.

E Call 17 727-230.

When? February 1-29 Event? Food festival Venue? Soie, Sheraton Hotel Enjoy the maki and sushi promotion at this Chinese venue.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? February 1-29 Event? Food festival Venue? Crowne Plaza It’s all about crabs at Waves Seafood Restaurant, and curries simmer at Spices.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? February 1-29 Event? Food festival Venue? Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Discover the finest regional flavours from various parts of Italy.

E Call 17 636-414.

When? February 28 Event? Coffee morning Venue? T-Spoon, Kempinski Grand Hotel On this morning, coffee comes with a blend of fashion from Michael Kors.

E Call 17 171-000.

106 x F&B Happenings - 116 x Theme nights - 117 x Restaurant Listings

BTM February 2012 105

diningf&bhappenings

Savouring Great Tastes Not every meal needs to be about a date this month.

Here are a few places that are set to celebrate good food this February.

Some things new Novotel Al Dana Resort seems to be undergoing a minimakeover in respect to its cuisine as they introduce a new executive chef to their kitchens. Jean Pierre is a seasoned professional hotelier, who has impressive work experience in the food and beverage industry.

On February 28, rush to T-Spoon at Kempinski Grand Hotel for their fashion coffee morning from 9.30-11am. Be amongst the select few to get a taste of the latest fashion forecast in trends and designs by the leading luxury retail outlets of Bahrain City Centre. The first 25 guests to RSVP get in for free; if you didn’t make the cut, BD5++ should win you the same privileges.

Food festivals All through February, take a trip through different regions of Italy at Fiamma in Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq with the traditional dishes of each land making its way to your table. Following its success through the last couple of weeks in January, It’s Mirchi at Ramee International Hotel has extended their kebab and biryani promotion till the end of February.

At Crowne Plaza, the curry festival at Spices Indian Restaurant and the seafood platter promotion at Waves

Fiamma

Seafood Restaurant are in full swing till February 29. If we were in your place, we’d be piling up the crabs on our plate at Waves Seafood Restaurant, especially the Singaporean-style pepper crab and those doused in lemon and garlic sauce. After all, prices start from a shocking low BD4.950++.

bystanderthismonth

Mövenpick Dinner Reception The Mövenpick Hotel hosted a dinner reception for a number of guests at the Al Murjan Ballroom last month.

At the event, the hotel introduced its new executive chef, Alfred Zuberbuehler, who cooked the Swiss classic Fondue and other delights

Francesco, Hussain, Heinz Kraehenbuehl, Alfred, Sumaya & Holger

Elmer & Leslie

Heinz, George, Kathryn & Steve

Armi & Francesco

Mutaz, Alfred & Eyad

106 February 2012 BTM

Rakesh, Shani & Godwin

Edz & Liza

Mohammed & Amal

Patty & Sushil

Susan & Joan

Savio

MP Bahrain | Ad | Size Trim: H25.3.9xW19.1cm; size bleed: H25.9xW19.7cm | Color: CMYK | Paper: matt coated, 250 g/m2

Choose your favorite: Our classic Fondue, a mix of Swiss Cheese, Gruyere and Vacherin cheeses in white wine. Fondue “Bourguignonne,” the most succulently tender beef fillet cubes plunged into hot oil, served with French Fries and an array of flavourful sauces. And Fondue “Choinoise,” the savoury aroma of beef, veal, chicken and fish simmering in a broth-filled hot pot.

Book now to guarantee your place. Just call +973 1746 00 00 and say “Fondue”.

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain P.O.Box 24009, Muharraq Town, Kingdom of Bahrain Phone +973 17 460 000, Fax +973 17 460 001 www.moevenpick-bahrain.com

www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Fondues

swiss bliss.

diningf&bhappenings

TRADER VIC’S

It Takes Two...

There couldn’t be anything more romantic than whiling your time away on an exclusive island. It’s even better when they’ve arranged for something special for the both of you.

It’s no secret that all those who are looking to spend an intimate evening out with their loved one is waiting to hear what the most romantic venue in town has to offer. Trader Vic’s, is everyone’s first choice when they are in the search for a tropical escape.

The Tahiti Island which acts as the main dining area is a beautiful space with a lot of daylight seeping in owing to its French windows. It also boasts high ceilings that add to its grandeur. Even the walls wrapped in tapa cloth tell a story with coastal paintings from around the globe. Bearing an atmosphere that complements the French-Polynesian interiors is their terrace which is a wise choice for romantics. All of it, including the tiki masks and figurines, makes the guests at Trader Vic's feel a mythical touch.

Designed for two On February 14, a wave of romance washes over the whole venue and all you will find is a sea of red that will sweep you away instantly. Those who can enjoy the true essence of the islands will love the bar-lounge that hosts their Cuban resident band, Riviera, who takes you to the Caribbean shores with their vibrant rhythms and romantic tunes.

A specially set four-course menu makes its way to your table on this night. One of the dishes will be the ‘Mar Y Tierra’ (sea and earth), which is a combination of a grilled lobster tail, a filet mignon and wild mushrooms accompanied with mashed carrots, celery quenelle and their signature Hawaiian potatoes.

Restaurant regulars already know that their appetisers are something you must never miss. This time they have cooked up

108 February 2012 BTM

special tidbits exclusively for the occasion. Indulge in coconut prawns, crispy vegetable spring rolls or konakona chicken lollipops for a great start to the night.

Everything on this night is set for two, especially their cocktail, which will be served in a seashell bowl meant for sharing. Priced at BD22++ per person, the candlelit dinner isn’t the only highlight here on Valentine’s Day. They’ve also arranged for a photographer to take a picture of your Trader Vic’s experience, which they will give you in a beautiful frame before you leave. Guests will receive complimentary roses and chocolates as well.

An acquired taste Mai-Tai Lounge is an easy favourite amongst the people of Bahrain. This isn’t surprising considering its unique setting.

Where else could you find a lounge with a stilt-house setup and its own exclusive lagoon all while being located only steps away from the beach?

Offering a view of The Ritz-Carlton’s magnificent island, this venue just saw the success of its first big event of the year on February 1. Scheduled to be a quarterly event, Mai-Tai Lounge has established the cigar night where aficionados can take part in a degustation of limited edition cigars and classics alike. The first venture saw the appreciation of the Cuban all-time favourite, Double Coronas Partagas Lusitanias which is a very sophisticated, complex and flavourful Cuban classic, under the wings of leading distributors of luxury goods, BMMI and Fazco.

So, watch out for the next round in a few months’ time.

E Call 17 586-555.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA

A Romantic Escape Sofitel’s luxurious ambience is the ideal way to enjoy a ‘magnifique’ Valentine’s Day; unwind in the spa, savor an intimate dinner or take sunset strolls and moonlit walks.

Sea view

Luxury room

Thalassa Sea & Spa

Secluded, grand and with picturesque views, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers everything you need to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The deluxe hotel invites you to be transported far from the stresses of your day-to-day life and into a world of relaxation.

If it’s a weekend getaway that you crave, take advantage of Sofitel’s special room rate just for Valentine's Day. At BD85, you can stay in elegantly-styled accommodation — the perfect setting for romance. To enhance the romantic atmosphere, the royal treatment will be in abundance; a bottle of bubbly will be waiting for you and a beautiful flower as a Valentine’s gift. To allow you the luxury of time, a late check-out of 4pm will be in place and breakfast will be served in your room each morning.

For a decidedly restful day, indulge in Sofitel’s unique seawater spa. Sofitel’s Thalassa Sea & Spa offers a huge range of special and unique treatments for both you and your partner that are innovative and effective, through harnessing the active ingredients found in the sea. You are guaranteed to leave in a blissful state of calm, a feeling that will stay with you for the rest of the day.

This Valentine’s Day couples package is available throughout February and comprises of a relaxing 30 minutes in the multi jet bath, a mini facial by Aquascience and a romantic couple’s massage. The hotel is running an exclusive spa offer wherein if you buy one package you share the other as complimentary with your partner.

Or choose a traditional way to celebrate the day and spoil yourself and your loved one with a delicious dinner at Sofitel.

Start off with a cocktail at the hotel’s Lagoon Pool Bar and follow this with dinner at one of the restaurants. The awardwinning La Mer restaurant will tempt your taste buds with the culinary delights of the sea, enjoy Italian meals served in Fiamma or Southeast Asian cuisine at new restaurant Wok. However you wish to spend the most romantic day of the year, Sofitel will ensure that you spend it amidst excellent Arabic hospitality but with a stylish French flair. Parfait!

E Call 17 636-363.

BTM February 2012 109

diningf&bhappenings CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN HOTEL

A Majestic Feast Get set for a Valentine’s Day where you will be spoilt for choice with dining specials and accommodation packages to make your celebration of love as memorable as it can be.

Treat your loved one and set off on a culinary journey at Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel with the special four-course set dinner of exciting flavours for BD14.950++ per person at Spices Indian Restaurant, with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. Waves Seafood Restaurant invites you and your loved one to indulge in a wonderful four-course set menu of the freshest and finest seafood culinary creations by their executive chef at BD19.950++ per person inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine.

If dining in won’t do, be prepared to paint the town red with Harvester’s Pub, its in-house band and DJ, and some fabulous games, prizes and surprises. Don your crimsons and rubies and join them at the Red Hot Party. Extend the celebration and enjoy an overnight stay for two with room rates starting from BD85.000++.

Couples only Get 20 per cent discount on the joining fee until February 29 when you sign up for an annual couple’s membership at Crowne Plaza’s Health Club and enjoy some exciting benefits —a complimentary onenight stay for two at the hotel, a dinner voucher at Spices Indian Restaurant, a free Zumba class and 25 per cent discount on food items for a year in all their dining venues.

Spoil your beloved with a surprise romantic Valentine’s break away with Crowne Plaza’s romance package available all through February at BD149++. It includes one night’s accommodation for two, breakfast in bed and a candlelit dinner with a bottle of house wine in Waves Seafood Restaurant. A bottle of sparking wine, a bouquet of flowers and canapés waits for you in your room. E Call 17 531-122 or 17 525-813.

SHEZA TOWER HOTEL

Seafood Delights If you are one of those who simply can’t have enough seafood in a day, then we bring good news. A new teppanyaki venue is soon to open its doors.

110 February 2012 BTM

The Diplomatic Area isn’t the first place you think of when you’re looking to dine out. However, located right in the heart of the region, Sheza Tower Hotel remains busy with gourmands all through the year owing to its commitment to a speciality Bahrain can’t seem to have enough of — seafood. With over a quarter of a century of success in pleasing Bahrain’s foodies, Lucas Fernandes, manager of Seafood Market single-handedly made the restaurant a pioneer in seafood specialties.

Offering one of the biggest seafood displays in the Kingdom including a variety of fish, mussels, clams, oysters, crabs and even live lobsters shipped in from Oman and Canada, the Seafood Market Resturant offers you the freedom to choose what goes into your meal and in which style you’d like it cooked, be it Middle-Eastern, European or Far-Eastern. But if you’re hoping to catch a bit of the Japanese flair, move over to the Fuji Sushi Bar. Shaikh Abdul Jabbar, manager, took inspiration from his trip to Tokyo to bring you the finest in Japanese cuisine, bringing you the most authentic recipes and cooking styles. These restaurants are also ideal for quick business lunches which can also be delivered to surrounding offices.

They will soon launch the third outlet — Fuji Teppanyaki Restaurant on the ground floor. Here you can expect a more interactive dining experience with chefs. They have also brought in live entertainment by Calipso Trio who serenade and entertain guests with a variety of popular songs.

Watch out for their special set menu for Valentine’s Day at BD20 and get a complimentary glass of wine. They will even give away roses and heart-shaped cakes among other gifts. E Call 17 533-336.

MOEVENPICK HOTEL

Lovers’ Shelter If you are seeking to impress your Valentine, there is no better place than Mövenpick Hotel with its chic interiors and exciting offers.

The first rule of taking your dear one out for a special night is the surprise factor. But you don’t want to be on its receiving end when the evening doesn’t turn out to be as good as you’d hoped. The only way to avoid this is to go some place that has never disappointed and has always catered to every occasion with utmost dedication. What better venue can you think of than Mövenpick Hotel when it comes to the perfect dinner for the ideal couple?

A heartfelt meal This year, the team here has planned out an international feast for the lovebirds in the Kingdom. On February 14, a remarkable buffet, specially designed to celebrate the festival of love, awaits all those seeking romance and all those who have found it. Boasting an enchanting ambience with its themed décor, the hotel serves a sumptuous array of delicious dishes from around the world including the most tempting desserts and chocolates.

Spreading the scent of love in the air, the candles at every table remain lit through the night to add a cosy touch to the last few nippy nights of the season. Make this Valentine’s Day extraordinary and dine at the elegant Silk’s from 7-11pm. The restaurant completely transforms into a warm shelter for lovers as irresistibly addictive music fills the venue. You will have the

privilege of listening to all the classics performed live by the European band, Friends, who have prepared such a luring set that it is almost impossible not to ask your date to join you to dance.

What makes this night even more extraordinary is the fact that each couple has the chance to win a round trip ticket to Beirut courtesy of Bahrain Air. All you need to win that threenight break is to pop a balloon. So pack those bags before you walk in as you never know, you might be leaving with two tickets to paradise.

Don’t worry if you aren’t the lucky couple as several more surprises are in store for everyone else. It is guaranteed that none of you will walk home empty-handed after the luxurious meal at this venue on Valentine’s Day. The ladies in the house are entitled to a red rose to keep the spirit of love alive throughout the event.

Whether it’s your first date or your 50th anniversary, Mövenpick Hotel has its own way of making your night count.

Indulge in all kinds of cuisines from Japanese and Arabian favourites to the finest of Italian and an unlimited supply of selected beverages at BD25.500++ per person.

You’re not the only one planning to be a part of their celebration. So call in right away to reserve your table for two and leave the rest to them. E Call 17 460-000.

BTM February 2012 111

diningf&bhappenings KEMPINSKI GRAND & IXIR HOTEL

A Taste of Romance Celebrate the most romantic time of the year in style with the wonderful packages for couples on Valentine’s Day, and throughout the month.

Boudoir

Entice your loved one at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre in the most exceptional way with a romantic dinner in the splendour of Boudoir lounge which will be reserved exclusively for couples to revel in. An extravagant five-course dinner served with a bottle of chilled champagne with live music sets the tone for an intimate evening with that special person.

Luminescent walls, a dome-shaped ceiling, glamorous lounge chairs reminiscent of the French Renaissance period and exotic art decor lend an aura of panache to this upscale bar.

The romantic dining package is priced at BD120++ per couple with availability limited to only 20 couples in this exclusive venue on Valentine’s Day from 7pm onwards.

It would be almost impossible to think of a better place to enjoy a magnificent romantic meal with your partner unless you are thinking of the Mezzanine lounge, where couples can relive the time when the idea of romance was ‘dinner and a movie’. Enjoy special moments with your loved one with a selection of classic movies in the comfort of their own private ‘pod’ combined with a delectable three-course menu complemented with a glass of sparkling wine.

Located on the first floor of Kempinski Grand Hotel, this venue is accentuated with contemporary furniture, plush seating, luxurious fabrics and stylish wooden panels offering the perfect setting for a relaxed, romantic dining experience with a well-stocked bar and a specially set Valentine’s menu. The private pods here combined with a three-course menu are priced at BD35++ per person. You can reserve for up to four people in a ‘pod’ to spend their precious moments at the hotel on February 14 from 7pm onwards.

February 29 comes only once every 1,461 days. So, in this leap year, ladies have a chance to propose to their man in a special way. We have all heard of that tradition, haven’t we? Women can reserve a table for a delicious dinner with their sweetheart in Boudoir lounge. In addition, the hotel has a fantastic prize of a Valentino handbag to give away on the night. Are you one of the lucky couples to unlock the magnificent box placed in this grand venue to find the gorgeous gift courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue?

E Call 17 171-000 or email restaurants.bahrain@kempinski.com.

RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN

A Home Away from Home Are you looking for American food in the heart of Bahrain? You can’t go wrong at Ric’s Kountry Kitchen.

Upstairs

Downstairs

112 February 2012 BTM

Popular among the American crowd and located in Juffair is Ric’s Kountry Kitchen. It was established in 1997 as the best in American cuisine. Over-indulging here is inevitable and is not the place to go if you’re watching your waistline. Think mouthwatering breakfasts, burgers, ribs, steaks, sandwiches and soups just to name a few. Rick Abernathy, owner and operator of the restaurant, is a former American marine. He is a true patriot whose hospitality makes the venue truly a home away from home.

Downstairs, the décor boasts the country style with a relaxed atmosphere. The kitchen opens from 5.30am to the wee hours of the night. The lounge plays country western and top 40 music and the prices are extremely reasonable to boot. Their brick oven pizza is known to be one of the best in town and delivery is free. Upstairs has been recently renovated with a more sophisticated interior for those who enjoy fine dining and wines from all over the world.

Executive chef Roland Sollberger, from Switzerland, draws upon his culinary experience from around the world. He creates magic at his live cooking sessions for Italian and Mexican buffets.

Wednesday night brings on a succulent display of certified Black Angus US prime ribs and is the choice of many. Friday brunch is everything from breakfast to sushi and includes unlimited selected alcoholic beverages; military with ID need only spend BD14. They also ensure everyone makes it back safely with complimentary rides to your home or to the NSA base. E Call 17 725-550.

Klouds Restaurant

THE K HOTEL

On Cloud Nine The restaurant strip isn’t the only place in Juffair where you can go on dining ventures. Here are a few food and beverage venues that will spoil you with great tastes.

Five-star cuisine is exactly what The K Hotel offers diners and guests alike in each of its outlets. Guests can choose from relaxed alfresco dining to international buffets or even a quick snack on the run.

Klouds is the all-day dining restaurant located in the lobby level. Seating up to 90 people, it offers breakfast and lunch buffets with a continental spread of starters, main courses, an Oriental corner and delicious desserts. At night, Klouds converts itself into a steakhouse serving mouth-watering steaks, poultry and fish preparations, from 7-11pm.

If you ever feel like a trip to the countryside, join them and experience village dining with exciting varieties of good food, live entertainment and lots of fun at their Friday brunch. A wide variety of skewers and seafood are on offer every Wednesday and Thursday respectively.

This year, this restaurant will celebrate Valentine’s Day like never before with a special set menu dinner for BD24++ per couple including a bottle of sparkling wine.

International flavours For something more Asian, Mo Kan Restaurant is the perfect venue with recipes from China, Japan and Thailand. This house of Far Eastern specialties seats up to 70 persons and is open for lunch from 12noon-3.30pm and for dinner from 7-11pm.

Popular for the Saturday sushi feast, they offer great tastes at just half the usual price.

K Lounge is the ideal venue if you are looking to just sit back and unwind. Situated near the hotel’s lobby, it can

The K Lounge

accommodate up to 60 guests and is open from 11-2am offering happy hour prices from 6-8pm.

Recently-opened, Champions Sports Lounge is just the place to hang out with friends while playing a game of darts or billiards. Catch up on the latest in the world of sports and take advantage of their happy hours daily from 5-7pm.

Leisure and sports facilities The K Hotel health club, with both an adult and a children’s swimming pool, is an ideal place to spend the weekend with the family or to relax after a hard week at the office. Apart from the sporting facilities and a keep-fit studio, The K Hotel offers a separate gymnasium for men and women, both with cardiovascular machines, multi-purpose exercise rooms, Jacuzzis, steam rooms and saunas for a complete wellness experience. The facilities are available to both hotel guests and residents in the Kingdom.

E Call 17 360-000.

BTM February 2012 113

diningf&bhappenings RAMADA HOTEL BAHRAIN

Tailor-made Hospitality When you think about good food and live entertainment, Ramada Hotel Bahrain is undoubtedly one of the first places that pop in mind.

Having positioned itself as one of the Kingdom’s most enduringly popular hotels, Ramada Hotel Bahrain is well-known for its outstanding service. With its established reputation, convenient location and unmatched facilities, this venue offers a wealth of benefits that are guaranteed to make your experience a relaxing and memorable one. This is one hotel that has got everything for discerning travellers and local guests alike.

Dining and entertainment Le Jardin Restaurant, with its very inviting and light ambience, is known for its exciting dining choices and offers delicious breakfast buffets and all day a-la-carte menus. It also offers to host lunch or dinner gatherings for those looking forward to a more tasteful affair.

The Exchange Restaurant & Pub is the perfect place to watch your favourite sports. At this time of the year, you can catch the thrilling knockout phase of the UEFA Champions League. Football fans can look forward to a relaxing night, starting off with happy hours and a meal; all this in a jovial atmosphere while enjoying the match with your friends.

If you love live music, then you are in for a treat with endless evenings of entertainment with their resident quartet, christened Episode. Hailing from the Philippines, this dynamic group plays an electrifying mix of popular music including country, R&B, rock and roll and pop. This four-piece sensation is sure to get you in the party mood if you didn’t already walk in with it.

E Call 17 742-000.

CAFÉ ITALIA

Romantic Table for Two

114 February 2012 BTM

Café Italia is firing up the pizza ovens and cooking up a storm for us this Valentine’s Day. Treat yourself to a luxurious meal at this home of all things Italian.

Executive chef Twedi Martatna, restaurant manager Mohammed Waseem, and the rest of the Café Italia team in Adliya are pulling out all the stops to offer you ‘love in the air’ on Valentine’s Day. Featuring an exclusive four-course set menu for couples — and even for singles if you so choose — for an intimate night out, this will be an evening where you are romanced. Priced at BD 25++ per person, tables will be set with roses, love songs will be played through the night and, of course, there is the food of love — Italian cuisine.

Those that have been in Bahrain a while know though that Café Italia does ‘Italian’ the right way — every time, through its three restaurants in Adliya, Bahrain City Centre, and Seef Mall, the venue of the original trattoria in the Kingdom.

Renowned for many dishes, it is the wood-fired pizzas baked in authentic ovens imported from Italy, which get guests talking. It is the perfect mix of the freshest ingredients, the right wood and traditional baking by artisan chefs.

In addition, menus at Café Italia are well balanced and unique, updated quarterly to ensure that slower moving items are replaced by newer ideas and concepts, keeping the selection of dishes lively and customers coming back for more.

Try out the delicacies such as the fettuccine di wagyu al tartufo bianco and you will understand why Café Italia has earned its reputation. Then, to refresh the palate, dig into the signature dessert of warm melted chocolate cake — delicious! E Call 17 744-774.

SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL

Where Gourmands Splurge Whether you visit for business or pleasure, this hotel ensures your stay is memorable and relaxing by combining local hospitality with services tailored to your needs.

Golestan

Soie Chinese restaurant

One of the highlights of the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel is the food and beverage options it offers through its many restaurants.

Savour the authentic taste of the Orient in Soie Chinese Restaurant. Designed for a delightful Far Eastern experience, its vast menu offers delectable preparations from all over China such as butterfly prawns with sweet chilli and steamed hammour fillet with lemongrass and ginger.

This fine dining venue sports an elegant design with a dramatic silk canopy made from rich Chinese silk, dark wooden floors, bamboo plants and oriental vases. Eclectic seating spaces offer a sense of privacy for an intimate meal or a family get-together. It also acts as the perfect place for a private dinner and celebration. Customised menus and an extraordinary ambience ensure the success of any event.

On February 14, they will wrap couples in romantic bliss with a special Valentine’s set menu inclusive of a welcome drink and halfbottle of wine per person along with live entertainment.

If you are looking for a more Middle Eastern flavour, head over to Golestan which features a relaxed ambience and mouth-watering array of authentic Iranian specialties. With a name that means ‘land of flowers’, this restaurant offers a relaxed ambience.

The chefs here, trained in the culinary art of Iranian cuisine, use age old recipes to cook up a delicious feast. Enjoy the impressive menu which includes kebab mokhtalef, chelo kebab koobideh and much more for an unforgettable dining experience. Tantalise your taste buds with delicately flavoured favourites and fresh oven-baked breads while you discuss business with colleagues or connect with friends and family.

Beyond these two amazing venues, they are also home to the renowned Al Safir Restaurant which offers a sumptuous buffet spread for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as outstanding à la carte options. Take pleasure in its stress-free, all-day dining experience.

The restaurant will add an extra romantic flair to your evening with a sensual décor of roses, hearts and cupid — a romantic treat for everybody in love throughout the special sumptuous international buffet for lunch and dinner on February 14. There will be interesting giveaways like roses and miniature perfumes as part of the celebratory feast.

Meanwhile, An Nada cocktail lounge’s live entertainment helps you unwind and ease into the weekend. Its warm décor and atmosphere makes it the ideal destination to enjoy a drink.

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pool area and interesting signature beverages, it’s a great place to connect and lighten up.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a solitary gourmet experience, a high-powered business lunch or a traditional family get-together, look no further than the restaurants and lounges at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, where everyone is welcome at the table. E Call 17 533-533 or visit www.sheraton.com/bahrain.

BTM February 2012 115

diningthemenights Theme? Couples night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant Tucked within Budaiya, this venue is bound to impress.

E Call 17 593-593.

wednesday Theme? Meat Room Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Choose any cut you like and have it cooked to perfection.

E Call 17 531-122.

sunday Theme? Indian Night Venue? Skyw@lk Café, Marriott Apartments Spice up your taste buds with their mouth watering Indian buffet.

E Call 17 363-999.

Theme? BBQ Night Venue? Mövenpick Indulge in a wide selection of fine meats including the churrasco.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Sizzling Sirloin Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant It’s time you found out why their steaks are so popular.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant It’s everyone’s favourite cuisine.

It’ll soon be your favourite venue.

E Call 17 593-593.

Theme? Sunday Roasts Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel Who knew they were open for lunch? We’re enthused!

E Call 17 713-000.

Theme? Wine Fest Venue? Block 338 Pay BD9++ and get swigging from 7-11pm.

E Call 17 710-338.

monday Theme? Gulf night out Venue? Gulf Hotel A splendid pool-side dinner is available at BD17++ with discounts for early birds.

E Call 17 746-412.

116 February 2012 BTM

Theme? Curry Club Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel Every week they cook up a curry from different parts of the world.

E Call 17 713-000.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Sushi, prawns, lobster, oysters — seafood buffet at its best.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Moules et frites Night Venue? Camelot You know their wines are great; now try their mussels and fries.

E Call 17 717-745.

Theme? Family Day Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant Searching for a place to dine out with the kids? Look no further.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Brenigan’s Restaurant It might be far from the city; but it’s well worth the visit.

E Call 17 593-593.

Theme? Sushi Night Venue? Cocoon Lounge Sample one of eight fresh, sumptuous platters of sushi.

E Call 17 827-600.

tuesday Theme? Italian Night Venue? Skyw@lk Café, Marriott Executive Enjoy their “La Famosa Notte Italiana” with delicious food.

E Call 17 363-999

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Medzo, InterContinental Regency Travel through the tastes of Tuscany with a free flow of wine.

E Call 17 208-308.

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Eat as much as you like of any kind of fresh pasta and pizza.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Are you in love with seafood? So are they and they’ve got it all.

E Call 17 535-000.

Theme? Italian Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant A true foodie can’t have enough pasta; especially from here.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Barbeque Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand A live BBQ counter boasts meat and seafood done to perfection.

E Call 17 584-400.

thursday Theme? Steak Night Venue? Silk’s Restaurant, Mövenpick Stick a fork in juicy Angus steaks and scrumptious salads.

E Call 17 460-000.

Theme? Smokes and Grills Venue? La Brasserie Restaurant, Elite Resort and Spa Dining by the pool sounds good, doesn’t it? Load up on barbecues.

E Call 17 313-326.

Theme? Suds USA Creole Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Check out how the Louisiana cuisine is a blend of influences.

E Call 17 535-000.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? La Mosaique Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Eat the freshest catch cooked any way you like till your belly bursts.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? The Grape Escape Venue? Camelot Wine tasting has never been more entertaining than it is here.

E Call 17 717-745.

Theme? Let's Meat Venue? Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency Using fine ingredients, they call you to experience grilled cuts.

E Call 17 227-777.

Theme? Couples Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant A romantic night out? Your meal includes a bottle of wine.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Rimal, Al Areen Palace and Spa Experience a unique culinary excursion across the seven seas.

E Call 17 845-000.

Theme? Great American BBQ Venue? Al Wasmeyyah Restaurant, Golden Tulip Whether you like it medium or rare, it will be there!

E Call 17 535-000.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant We love their grilled hammour.

The mixed platter is a must-have.

E Call 17 716-999.

Theme? Seafood Night Venue? Al Waha, Gulf Hotel You can’t have enough fish in a day — nor crabs or clams.

E Call 17 713-000.

Theme? All Day Breakfast Venue? Camelot Eggs made the way you love them; home-made waffles and more.

E Call 17 717-745.

saturday Theme? Sushi Fest Venue? Mo Kan Restaurant, The K Hotel Pamper your palate and taste a great selection of sushi at half price.

E Call 17 360-000 or 39 162-139.

friday Theme? Fish on a Friday Venue? Sherlock Holmes, Gulf Hotel They’re going back to the British tradition with interesting menus.

E Call 17 713-000.

Theme? Dinner Buffet Venue? It’s Mirchi, Ramee International Try the Mirchi platter with the most succulent kababs.

E Call 38 381-615.

Theme? Lunch Buffet Venue? Fareast Seafood Market, Ramee International There isn’t better news for a true gourmand than a lobster promotion.

E Call 36 359-548.

Theme? Special Breakfast Venue? Rayes, Coral Bay They offer a unique spread with sweets and oven-fresh specialties.

E Call 39 777-701.

Theme? Saturday Brunch Venue? Sizzler’s Restaurant Overslept on Friday? Worry not.

Try the brunch here.

E Call 17 716-999.

restaurantlisting American Bennigan’s Burger Lounge Burger Wisconsin Chili House Chili’s Franks a Lot Fuddruckers Hard Rock Café Johnny Rockets Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Ponderosa Steak Escape T.G.I.Friday’s Tony Luke’s

European 17 813-750 77 055-772 17 594-458 17 580-045 17 581-221 17 811-970 17 742-266 17 291-569 17 566-565 17 725-550 17 580-552 17 178-464 17 179-041 17 494-940

Asian Bambu!

Chin Li Chop-Chop Tea House Curry Country Hot Wok House Boat Kontiki Memories Mo Kan Monsoon Nu Asia Panasia Papaya Peppers Rice Bowl Thai Chi

17 714-424 17 717-717 17 178-701 17 537-555 17 178-083 16 010-321 17 525-455 17 178-646 17 360-000 17 749-222 17 587-171 17 721-600 17 697-105 17 717-808 17 179-600 17 179-747

Block 338 Camelot Coco’s Cyprus Taverna Déjà Vu L’Avenue Le Pain Quotidien Mezzaluna Paul Café Sizzlers Zytoun

17 710-338 17 717-745 17 716-512 17 716-316 13 657-770 17 567-222 17 179-734 17 742-999 17 172-321 17 716-999 17 298-008

Filipino Bahay Kubo Borakay Chuckay Fast Food Flamingo Kowloon Lutong Pinoy Quick Stomach Swan Lake Tops

17 231-996 17 514-400 17 532-250 17 231-106 17 224-357 17 295-540 17 232-382 17 291-655 17 237-768 17 277-665

Fusion Fusions L’Ile

17 746-427 17 845-000

Indian Aachi’s Chettinad Kitchen Akbar

17 233-110 17 296-660

Muju Nando’s Rendezvous Salad Boutique The Crepe Café Upstairs Downstairs Zoe

16 039-800 17 825-339 17 178-712 36 664-427 17 820-722 17 713-093 17 176-400

International (5 Star Hotel) Al Safir Al Waha Al Wasmeyyah La Mediterranee La Mosaique Olivo’s Brasserie Rimal Saraya Saveur Selections Silk’s

17 524-538 17 746-425 17 535-000 17 580-000 17 531-122 17 525-214 17 845-000 17 636-410 17 171-000 17 227-777 17 460-055

International (4 Star Hotel) Café California Café Marisol Café Sayah Chaq’s Grill Fusion Café Grand Café Il Giardino Klouds La Brasserie La Café Le Cascada Le Jardin Neyran Palm Parsia Ramee Bistro Ramee Café Red Café Savoy Café Temptations (EGH) Temptations (ESH) Tiffany’s

17 826-001 17 701-201 17 224-000 17 290-555 17 811-688 17 727-230 17 583-388 17 360-000 17 313-333 17 810-555 17 360-360 17 742-000 17 584-400 17 296-699 17 814-777 17 290-600 17 297-000 17 296-660 17 827-999 17 565-888 17 558-888 17 716-999

Iranian

Tian Wok Yum Chow!

17 717-080 17 636-415 17 744-900

Brazilian Brasa de Brasil Brazil Rodizio Grill

17 582-225 17 826-686

Chinese Beijing Chinese China Express China Garden Ching Foli Hong Kong Magic Wok Shanghai Hut Soie Spice Nice

17 717-969 17 717-439 17 746-423 17 564-424 17 722-199 17 728-700 17 506-070 17 292-988 17 533-533 17 713-603

Café Restaurants Café T Camille’s Sidewalk Café Delifrance Esquires Le Bateau Le Chocolat Lina’s Café Rosa Verge Skyw@lk Café

17 750-777 17 339-508 17 696-031 77 177-660 17 369-165 17 582-259 17 532-538 13 667-777 17 363-999

Asha’s Clay Oven Copper Chimney Curry Tree Hyderabad House 17 720-031 It’s Mirchi Lanterns Moti Mahal Mumbai Spices Nattinpuram Nirvana Papadom Spices The Great Kabab Factory The Yellow Chilli

17 179-751 17 717-008 17 728-699 16 030-662 17 727-230 17 590-591 17 825-333 17 382-255 17 290-600 17 589-318 17 564-434 17 531-122 17 690-629 17 580-480

Indian/Pakistani B-B-Q Delights Chutney’s

17 564-282 17 591-259

International East West Cuisine Flair Healthy Calorie Jim’s Restaurant La Fontaine Links Little Chef/Wholesale Mei n Yu

17 210-012 17 212-900 17 369-399 17 710-654 17 230-123 17 751-262 17 595-950 16 010-160

Golestan Isfahani Parsian Persian Garden Takht Jamsheed Tehran Grill

Sugoi Sumo Sushi & Bento Sushi 101 Yo! Sushi

17 178-084 17 718-090 17 822-274 17 583-373

Korean Arirang

17 290-945

Lebanese Abd El Wahab Al Areesha Al Arz Al Hamra Palace Café Blanc Carla’s Lebanese Bistro Leila L’Sultan Mashawi Lebanese Grill Qasr Al Sultan Grill Rayés Saj Express Shoo Fee Ma Fee Yamin Jana Zahle Zayt Zaytoon

17 311-111 17 725-414 17 296-660 17 224-000 17 100-069 17 697-687 17 711-772 17 567-222 17 506-070 17 179-500 17 312-700 17 365-055 17 311-280 16 033-800 17 746-417 17 312-222

Mexican Casa Mexicana Margarita Mexicana Senor Paco’s

17 715-521 17 746-462 17 725-873

Waves

17 531-122

Shawarma Shawarma Express Zahlawiya

17 729-922 17 710-051

Steak Houses Klouds Le Relais De Venise Legendz Plums The Butcher Shop & Grill The Meat Co

17 360-000 17 567-222 17 227-777 17 580-000 17 172-323 17 742-080

Thai Baan Saeng Thai Banana Leaf Hash House Lanna Thai Muay Thai Orchid Thai Royal Thai Shada Thai Express Thailand Wang Thai

17 715-775 17 744-171 17 715-094 17 593-940 77 040-454 17 312-006 17 746-421 17 721-155 17 506-070 17 717-040 17 710-771

Turkish Anatolia

17 690-601

Iskenderun Grill Kosebasi

17 292-950 17 172-322

17 524-579 17 369-269 17 811-511 17 580-600 17 746-431 17 555-989

Italian Bice Ristorante Biella Café & Pizzeria Café Italia Caffe Spasso Capri Carino’s Italian Grill Castello Cico’s Ciro’s Pomodoro Cucina Italiana Fiamma Gusto Italiano Justapasta La Pergola La Taverna Medzo Mia Mia Mino’s Pizzeria Mondo Nino Oliveto Pastarito Ristoranti Prego Primavera Roma Romano’s Macaroni Grill Terrazza Bistro Veneto

17 533-666 17 178-703 17 744-774 17 822-274 17 697-707 17 587-878 17 697-552 17 713-710 17 534-567 17 001-317 17 636-414 17 695-556 17 581-919 17 506-070 17 746-419 17 229-979 17 227-777 17 564-414 17 744-777 17 525-484 17 566-555 17 716-747 17 179-300 17 751-263 17 580-000 17 725-885 17 506-070 17 360-000 17 680-967

Japanese Bushido Edo Frangipani Fuji Sushi Bar Hakisushi I Love Sushi Kei Maki Mirai Sato

17 583-555 17 290-945 17 582-422 17 533-336 17 725-638 17 300-610 17 533-450 17 522-733 17 713-113 17 746-429

Middle Eastern Al Abraaj Al-Bokhari Leewan Al Khor Melh Alzad Taza

17 178-090 17 311-186 16 010-666 17 311-170 17 784-997

Moroccan Momo

17 180-659

Pizza Little Caesars Metro Pizza Papa John’s Pizza Express Pizza Hut Pizza Inn Pizzabella Speezza The Pizza Company

17 179-400 17 794-000 17 581-516 17 742-299 17 711-113 17 811-666 17 827-133 17 826-222 17 811-830

Polynesian Trader Vic’s

17 586-555

Seafood Afandi Far East Seafood Market Fish Market La Marine La Mer La Perle Seafood Market Totally Fish

17 849-111 17 727-230 17 701-201 17 595-775 17 636-411 17 298-008 17 533-336 17 179-757

Quick Service Restaurants Burger King Burgerland Chickey’s DQ Grill & Chill Elevation Burger EZ Take out Burger Fatburger Hardee’s Herfy Jasmi’s Kentucky Fried Chicken Kudu New York Fries McDonald’s Pollo Campero Tasty Bite

17 506-070 17 713-778 17 257-778 17 506-070 17 587-828 17 241-111 17 131-414 17 711-112 17 243-115 17 727-887 17 711-111 17 717-542 17 178-436 17 811-812 17 161-716 17 714-972

Eating Out listings

Note: Whilst every effort is made to cover all leading restaurant outlets in Bahrain, the details listed are based upon replies to our survey. BTM cannot accept any responsibility or liability for inaccurate information: we recommend you check with the restaurant to reconfirm their listing.

BTM February 2012 117

bystanderthismonth

Klub360 Launched The freshest, newest and by far the most sophisticated nightclub in Bahrain, Klub360 was launched at the Elite Crystal Hotel, Juffair, with DJ Bren as its inaugural resident spin master

Fadi, Shabeer DJ Win, Shah & Sarosh

Amar, Mo, Bryan & Anthony

DJs Bren & Win

Gabi, Vahid, Shah, Sarosh & Jamila

Yasmin & Nazli

Corrine & Sandra

Antonia & Dina

Ryan, Sarosh & Fadi

Adam, Laura & Andrew

Dina, Stefan & Emad

Datelina, Vanya, Mohammed & Mimi

118 February 2012 BTM

Anais, Aurelie & Alex

Nofa, Faye & Antonia

Jim, Mo, Hugh, Amar, Apple, Warren & Le

Chris & Wilson

Thomas, Shaera, Vahid, Petra & Gabi

DJ Win & Harley

Maile, Carolyn, Stephanie, Lalima & Klu

Sandra & Raya

Natalie & Laura

Shiva & Binoy

Rajiv & Basil

Yousaf & Riyad

Mo

afterdarkthismonth

Music from the Heavens A lot of what makes the Bushido experience inimitable is the tunes that waft through the venue once the doors open.

We speak to the man behind the music — DJ Dara Singh.

Bushido isn’t just about good food and Japanese cuisine. It is about a lifestyle and moreover it is home to a unique energy. If nothing else, simply chilling out in this abode of Buddha Bar mixologists is sure to take your spirits to higher levels.

Lounge music hovers over this venue as you choose from chilled or warm sake or from fabulous cocktails and mocktails inspired by traditional Japanese drinks. The spread of rich silks in turquoise and red in the décor and furniture remind you that there’s nothing typical about this venue.

“As the night progresses, the beats may get quicker and the music a bit louder; but it doesn’t move far away from its genre as it all about easy listening,” says in-house DJ Dara Singh.

Bushido is a venue that is completely dedicated to music. The fusion of East and West is made more evident through Zenthemed tracks that also sport a transition from Indian to Asian and Middle-Eastern vibes all submerged within beats from the West. The idea is to mimic the pace of people’s life with a slower start during the day and it picks up with time after sunset. It is also a brilliant way of bringing together all guests in its different sections to a similar mood.

“It’s not always about the ‘booms’ and ‘bangs’. Aggressiveness isn’t the key. The style of music we play through the day depends highly on the kind of crowd we have and on what day of the week it is,” he explains. “Bahrain has a multi-ethnic society and Also this month

we aim at making each of them feel at home.”

With tracks that are a true mix of a global culture, Bushido has its way of taking you around the world without having to move a muscle. Patrons of the venue will have noticed that when Bushido brings in international DJs and artists to Bahrain, it always showcases a new style of music. They are always trying to keep it innovative and interesting for the nightlife addicts on the island. Rest assured, no two visits to Bushido is ever the same.

Music for the soul In February, we see one such artist prove his skills at the turntable all month long. Albert L has been in the music industry long enough to be noticed by some of the best artists including one of Bahrain’s favourites, DJ Ravin. The young and promising DJ is a true Mauritian and brings his eclectic mixes and experience of over a decade to the Kingdom on February 1.

The Pink Fridays make a great comeback as a monthly event owing to its popular demand. On February 24, apart from two complimentary drinks, the ladies in the house have the chance to win a BD500 worth handbag from their dream high-end designer. This time they get to choose by casting a vote on Bushido’s Facebook poll. Get clicking, women; you might just be the owner of a Chanel bag this year.

For Valentine’s Day, a four-course set menu has been designed at BD35 per person. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of champagne and a glamorous table setting with candles and roses await every couple.

When? February 1-29 Event? Promotion Venue? Temptations, Elite Grande The beer and burger promotion at this venue is hard to resist at BD3.5++.

E Call 17 565-888.

When? February 1-29 Event? Promotion Venue? Lagoon, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Buy four bottles of Corona, get one free while indulging in exotic fruits.

E Call 17 636-416 or 17 636-417.

When? February 1-29 Event? Promotion Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Beer tower promotion priced at BD10.500++; dim sum at BD3++.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? February 2 Event? Tribute act Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee International Nothing says rock like Metallica.

Catch the closest thing to the real thing here.

E Call 39 413-677.

When? February 3 Event? Tribute act Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Mentallica continues its tour at this country-styled parlour.

E Call 17 826-001.

120 x Happenings - 124 x Theme nights - 125 x Venue listing

BTM February 2012 119

afterdarkhappenings When? February 3, 8, 10, 17, 24, 29 Event? DJ nights Venue? Cocoon, Best Western Party looks with international DJs throughout the month.

E Call 17 827-600.

When? February 9, 23 Event? DJ nights Venue? Karma Lounge, Coral Bay Shake up the dance floor with Conan Liquid and DJ Shane Kehoe.

E Call 39 649-590 When? February 9 Event? Comedy night Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Terry Alderton and Noel Brodie will have you laughing all night!

E Call 39 649-590.

When? February 11, 25 Event? Theme night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Latino rhythms with the Amigos from 9pm-2am; it’s time to sway.

E Call 17 584-400.

When? February 24 Event? DJ party Venue? Bushido Albert L mixes while the ladies fight to win a BD500 handbag.

E Call 17 583-555.

120 February 2012 BTM

Pump Up the Beats It might be ‘freezing’ outdoors. But that hasn’t simmered down the heat in the nightclubs of Bahrain. Find out what’s hot this month.

New faces The music makes the club; a lot of venues have brought in new faces behind the beats. Performing daily at Le Bellevue Bar at Novotel Al Dana Resort is Two in One Trio, a band with a title that speaks for itself. Casa Bar at Mercure Grand Seef has an Egyptian duo by the name of Topaz performing live Arabic and international hits from 9pm-1am seven days a week.

Far from the ordinary, Downtown at InterContinental Regency offers an eclectic mix of live entertainment brought to you by their new South African band, U Turn. Revive your passion for live music in a relaxing environment with a cool vibe.

Boomers at Pars Hotel has a new band on board; the Filipino trio have owned the stage two weeks into their joining.

Mezzanine Lounge at Kempinski Grand Hotel now enjoys live music from a talented duo playing mixed ballads, blues and jazz on every night except Saturday.

Charl Chaka

DJ Mick Nicoll is the ideal host for fun-loving venues that are looking for the perfect entertainer and showman. He is now working wonders by the turntable at JJ’s Irish Restaurant. Block 338 also welcomes a new talent to keep the beats pumping.

Kaz Kazerooni showcases his expertise in all kinds of house and trance spreading a lounge-like vibe throughout the venue.

DJ Shane

Get the party started Giving you reason to shake a leg all through February is Cocoon Lounge. This month we hear top names like Pete Doyle, Smokin’ Groove, DJ Huss and Gazi, Paul Darey and some of Bahrain’s favourites, Charl Chaka and Damian D’Costa.

With the best rhythms in town, Ibiza isn’t so far away from this lounge in Best Western Juffair.

Meanwhile, Bahrain sees a two-day tour of the Metallica tribute band — Mentallica on February 2 and 3. The first leg of their show will be held at Rocky’s Café at Ramee International. The next night, they rock till the last second at Club Buffalo at Ramee California.

Walking in the shoes of Bushido’s resident DJ, Dara Singh, is Buddha BarDubai’s very own Albert L. Bringing home music for the soul, he will be rocking the scene all month with a special gig on February 24 which sees the return of the renowned Pink Fridays. This time the women have a chance to win a highend bag worth BD500 apart from two complementary drinks.

Karma Lounge at Coral Bay turns up the volume with two major events. Likwid Productions presents Conan Liquid, of the infamous duo Liquid People on February 9 for a live DJ set of uplifting and funky house music. It is free for everyone; doors open at 9pm. February 23 marks the return of Housexy.

DJ Shane Kehoe is ready to take Bahrain by storm as he is on tour for Ministry of Sound all over the globe, delivering dance floor fillers to keep you moving all night. Tickets will be available at the door for BD5 for gents; ladies have the privilege of free entry and free selected beverages all night.

Comedians Terry Alderton and Noel Brodie come to Bahrain for the Comedy Road Show over two nights. They will perform in Kicks at Hotel Diva on February 9 and at Corners in The Dragon Hotel and Champs Bar in Best Western Juffair on February 10.

Terry Alderton

DJ Conan

BTM February 2012 121

afterdarkhappenings RAMEE CALIFORNIA HOTEL

The Cupid Shuffle Ramee California Hotel proves their position among the kings of the party scene in the Kingdom this Valentine’s Day with not one, but two romantic events.

Head over to this Wild West-themed parlour, Club Buffalo, on February 14 for the ‘Cupid Gone Stupid Single Awareness’ party, which serves as an alternative to Valentine’s Day for people who are not involved in a romantic relationship. On this night, single people gather to celebrate, or to commiserate, in their single status, to remind romantic couples that they don’t need to be in a relationship to celebrate life.

Party and dance to the top 40 tunes by live American band Deluxe and podcast star DJ Johnny Bailo. Drink till you drop at BD14. Meanwhile, a special buffet is on offer with a glass of house wine at the same price for couples. They will host separate contests and games for everyone. Watch out for the giveaways. Walk in earlier this month, on February 3, and rock to one of the best Metallica tribute acts. E Call 33 731-000.

Turbo time ‘Turbo Luv Injection’, on February 15 at Bedrock, follows on from the ‘Pink Turbo Party’ recently held at the venue. Celebrate Valentine’s weekend at this dance party within this prehistoricthemed discotheque.

If you like electro music, house anthems and top 40 tracks, then you will absolutely love the mixes by DJ Jett Suarez and VDJ Aldwin Sta Rosa.

Packages for the night include a ‘drink all you can’ for BD15 for guys and BD7 for ladies. A special Valentine’s dinner comes at BD10 for couples with a glass of house wine. They will host a best romantic dance for couples followed by other games and prizes. E Call 39 051-283.

RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Shout it Out

It’s February and the first thing that springs to mind is Valentine’s Day. Express those hidden feelings or reaffirm those already out in the open at Dublin.

On February 14, Dublin, the American-Irish pub at Ramee Palace Hotel in Juffair, brings on the heat with an evening of the hottest hits performed by their resident band, Evolver. DJ Conny ensures that the dance floor is kept pumping at maximum temperature throughout the evening with some of his exclusive Valentine’s Day remixes. There is a special three-course menu available for BD8 including a beverage. Don your brightest reds or whites to bring out the true essence of this special day.

And there’s more Other events during February include Dublin’s Golf Day. Play a round competing against your friends with different pars on each beverage on February 9; exceptional deals are available for nine or 18 holes. The Evolver edition of Dublin’s Got Talent will be hosted on February 23 with some of the best jammers competing for the title. Last season’s winner, Jarrod, is once again the hot favourite, belting out his versions of Guns ‘n’ Roses, Bon Jovi and more.

There are plenty of newcomers on the scene ready to take over the trophy. Six participants, hand-picked by band leader, Janelle, from the weekly jam sessions will take part in the contest; the winner will be announced at the end of the night with a prize to match the coveted title.

This month also sees the final performance of the resident band, Evolver, on February 29, as they look to move on to the next stage in their rock and roll career. After a six month stint in Dublin, don’t miss your last chance to catch these fantastic musicians before they leave Bahrain’s shores.

Evolver

122 February 2012 BTM

E Call 39 736-547 or visit Facebook.com/Dublin Club Bahrain.

Child's Play

Latin Quarter

PARS INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

In the Spirit of Love It doesn’t always have to be about dinner on Valentine’s Day. It can also be about the show.

Celebrate your love with a bang and get partying this February.

Recently refurbished Z-Club, known to be one of the island’s favourite nightlife hangouts, is perfect for those looking to dive into the world of dancing. On Valentine’s Day, this venue located on the first floor, will host two DJs that will keep the dance floor packed all night long. A specially concocted drink will be offered on arrival while the ladies also get a complimentary red rose. The doors are open to all for free from 9pm.

Every night is a good night at this lounge. Complimentary martinis make their way to the ladies’ tables on Sundays because, on this night, they are keeping it retro. Mondays aren’t called peppermint nights for nothing; ladies, clink your mojitos till midnight as they keep pouring in for free. There’s no better day for a girls’ night out than Tuesdays as the bar gives away free shakes and shooters.

All airline crew are welcome on Wednesdays with free entrance and 50 per cent off on all beverages till their doors shut at 2am. Bring on the weekend with a buzz from all the drinks you can have at half the price.

Boomers, located just off the main lobby, offers a traditional pub atmosphere with great food, beverages and entertainment to match. Catch its new resident band, Child’s Play, from the Philippines as they rock the stage with the best of alternative rock and R&B music. This is the first time the trio performs in Bahrain and they’re not shy to outdo themselves. Enjoy while watching your favourite live sports on specially installed giant screens.

On February 14, move up front, rock to the sound of Child’s Play, who will entertain you from 9pm through the night. Pick up two of their ‘Lovers’ Delight’ cocktails, to get one on the house. Ladies receive a free drink on arrival on this night and

Boomers

Saturdays. It’s Hawaiian night on Thursdays at this venue that stays open from noon to 2am.

The party scene picks up at this venue on February 23 and 24 with the Carnaval de Barranquilla. Feel the beats of the wonderful city that is rich in culture, music and life and is broadly recognised for one of the largest carnivals in the world.

If you’ve never experienced the unique buzz of the festival, then you definitely need to save the dates on your calendar.

Latin Quarter, on the other hand, is a truly luxurious dine-in venue featuring a mosaic of tastes through a healthy selection of authentic Latin-American delicacies and luscious cocktails.

Mondays means one thing to this happening venue — Martini Madness. Ladies get free flavoured martinis from 8-11pm. It’s couples’ night on Tuesday; buy two drinks and a third is on the house. Ladies get complimentary mojitos on Wednesdays as its Cuban night and free margaritas on Fridays as it’s Mexican night.

On Valentine’s Day, the Conga Beat band will entertain you with the fantastic rhythms of their irresistible dance music. Buy two rounds of ‘peach on the beach’ cocktails for a complimentary third. You could also opt for a one-of-a-kind evening at Rogina Restaurant as you indulge in exotic Lebanese cuisine with live entertainment and a red rose for the lady. E Call 17 814-777.

BTM February 2012 123

afterdarkthemenights Theme? Hoteliers’ Night Venue? Barcode, City Center Hotel This is a night dedicated to the hotel and services industry.

E Call 33 477-088.

Theme? Microphone Madness Venue? JJ’s Irish Get in the spotlight and relish in your four minutes of fame.

E Call 17 717-370.

Theme? Shooters and Shots Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Down jagerbombs and Sambucas at BD2 all night long.

E Call 17 826-001.

sunday Theme? FBI Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza It’s half the price for all in the food and beverage industry.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? The Generation Game Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Spin the wheel; hear tracks from the decade it lands on.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Guitar Hero Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Your chance to be a rock star; get on stage, prove yourself E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Lucky Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Choose a colour; win free drinks all night.

E Call 17 584-400.

Theme? Bullfrog Night Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee International Hotel It’s the drink of the day; get pitchers of the white spirited demon.

E Call 34 014-860.

Theme? Fizzy Sunday Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Get international beer for just BD2 from 9pm until midnight.

E Call 17 826-001.

monday Theme? Mid-week madness Venue? Wrangler Buy one get another free from 7pm-12am.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? The K-Factor Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Join them for Karaoke night; ladies get free drinks.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Mis-Sense Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva A twist to karaoke, jam live on stage with the band.

E Call 17 810-555.

124 February 2012 BTM

Theme? Monday Martinis Venue? Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Load up on the martinis at just BD2 each.

E Call 17 313-333.

tuesday Theme? Karaoke night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza It’s all about music and cocktails; buy one, get one free.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Shooters Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Get free shots for every alcoholiv beverage you buy.

E Call 17 584-400.

Theme? Couples’ Night Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International The lady is welcomed with a drink. Buy two, get one free.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Double-up Tuesdays Venue? JJ’s Irish Make your drink, spirit or mixer, a double for only BD1 extra.

E Call 17 717-370.

Theme? Wine tasting Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel Introducing table-side wine tastings accompanied by canapés.

E Call 17 746-461.

Theme? Pink Fridays Venue? Bushido Lounge Ladies, enjoy a night out; win a pair of Louboutin shoes.

E Call 17 583-555.

wednesday Theme? Pitcher Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza At their price, there’s no stopping at one pitcher tonight.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Jammers Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Guests get the chance to jam with the live band.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Quiz Night Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Ladies receive five Kicks pounds at the door to redeem five drinks.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Cocktail Night Venue? Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grand "Another round here" is all you can hear tonight.

E Call 17 565-888.

Theme? Dollar Giveaway Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Present five DC dollars to get five selected drinks from 8pm-1am.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? FBI Wednesday Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California Hit their Facebook page for details on this new theme night.

E Call 17 826-001.

Theme? Vinotherapy Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel A new approach to wine-tasting; it is partly a spa experience.

E Call 17 746-461.

Theme? Mad Wall Street Night Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Unbelievable prices for drinks during the band’s intermissions.

E Call 17 227-777.

thursday Theme? Unlimited Drinks Venue? Rocky’s Café, Ramee International Drink till you drop at BD15. Be part of a night of sheer fun.

E Call 34 014-860.

Theme? Fabulous Fridays Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Wait for the sound of the klaxon when prices dive to just BD1.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Thirsty Thursdays Venue? Shift 7, Elite Resort & Spa Get a complimentary appetiser platter for every full bottle.

E Call 17 313-333.

Theme? R&B Night Venue? Cocoon Ladies raise your glasses for free bubbly all night long.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Mexican Night Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International Get tequilas and margaritas at low prices. You’ll be asking for more.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Karaoke night Venue? Champs, Best Western Sure it’s a sports bars; but singing isn’t an evil. Or is it?

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Double Trouble Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva Enjoy doubles for the price of singles.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? Beer fest Venue? Karma lounge, Coral Bay Poolside parties don’t get better than with DJ Sami.

E Call 39 777-701.

Theme? Cocktail night Venue? Davy Crockett’s, Hotel Diva Begin the weekend with freshly made cocktails from 5pm-10pm.

E Call 17 810-555.

Theme? The Friday Affair Venue? Club Buffalo, Ramee California DJ Johnny and resident band Deluxe keep you dancing all night.

E Call 17 826-001.

Theme? Party fever Venue? Wrangler Pay BD11 and drink the night away.

Gulf Air girls get free entrance.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Crazy Crew Night Venue? Downtown, InterContinental Regency Flash your crew ID; get 50 per cent off your drinks from 9pm.

E Call 17 227-777.

Theme? Thirsty Weekend Venue? Bedrock, Ramee California Get unlimited sprits with mixers, beer or wine at BD15.

E Call 17 826-001.

Theme? Hawaiian Night Venue? Boomers, Pars International Dance to the live performance by Simple Notes.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Cuban Night Venue? Latin Quarter, Pars International Ladies get unlimited mojitos on the house till midnight.

E Call 17 814-777.

Theme? Wine Compound Venue? Vintage Wine Bar, Gulf Hotel Meet other wine lovers for a truly interactive experience.

E Call 17 746-461.

friday Theme? Karaoke Night Venue? Kicks, Hotel Diva We hear they’re serving a brunch to die for. The singing begins at 5pm.

E Call 17 810-555.

saturday Theme? Bullfrog madness Venue? Wrangler The blue levy is on the loose; buy one and get one free.

E Call 17 827-600.

Theme? Gastro brunch Venue? Polo Lounge Gastro Café, The Palace Pub-grub never tasted better.

Explore their tricky cocktails.

E Call 34 003-754.

Theme? Karaoke Night Venue? Harvesters Pub, Crowne Plaza Buy one cocktail of your choice; get a second absolutely free.

E Call 17 531-122.

Theme? Drink All You Can Venue? Zodiac Lounge, Elite Grand It's unlimited selected beverages tonight at BD10.

E Call 17 565-888.

Theme? Salsa Night Venue? Casa Bar, Mercure Grand Put your dancing shoes on for their Latino dance classes.

E Call 17 584-400.

venuelisting Bar Boomers Champs Diggers Enigma Fiddlers Green Maguire’s Moodz Club

17 814-777 17 827-600 17 224-000 17 297-000 17 525-263 17 716-999 17 849-111

bystanderthismonth

Faces This Month Throughout the festive season, at Christmas parties and New Year's Eve, our photographers captured the happy smiling faces of residents enjoying themselves at various locations in and around the kingdom

Disco Bedrock Club Euphoria Tabasco Charlie’s Twister

17 826-001 17 727-230 17 224-242 17 296-660

Xanthe, Manal, Andreas, Hilary & Stephanie

Monish, Anupama & Rohit

Lounge Bar Amber Bar An Nada Barcode Boudoir Lounge Brazil Lounge Burlington Club Bushido Casa Bar Champions Lounge Cocoon Lounge Déjà Vu Downtown Flamingo Bar It’s Trendy L’Bar Latin Quarter Le Bellevue Muju Shift7 The Boatyard Bar Trader Vic’s Typhoon Vertigo Vintage Wine Bar Zodiac Lounge

17 636-419 17 533-533 33 477-088 17 171-000 17 826-686 17 580-000 17 583-555 17 584-400 17 360-000 17 827-600 13 657-770 17 227-777 17 460-056 17 727-230 17 567-222 17 814-777 17 298-008 16 039-800 17 313-333 17 701-201 17 586-555 17 746-395 17 845-000 17 746-461 17 565-888

Caroline, Maria & Rebecca

Angie, Jade, Elaine & Janeth

Ruth, Merly, Lezyl & Jenny

Tony, Lynette & Arthur

Pranee, Joann, Chandra, Maureen & Leizl

Night Club Glamour Lounge Klub 360 Tempo Wrangler Z Club

17 827-999 33 360-300 17 296-699 17 827-600 17 814-777

Pub Restaurant Club Buffalo Club F1 Davy Crockett’s Dublin Harvesters Henry’s Café JJ’s Irish Kicks Rocky's Café Sherlock Holmes The Exchange The K Lounge The Warbler

Marcus, Santhosh, Mike, Front, Vivi & Zack 17 826-001 17 296-464 17 810-555 17 811-688 17 531-122 17 716-999 17 717-370 17 810-555 17 727-230 17 742-450 17 742-000 17 360-000 17 290-600

Kiran, Margaret & Shyanne

Muneera & Mariam

Karl, Michelle, Paul & Jo

Dina & Khalid

Jo, Jen & Hazel

Sports Bar Chillers C. Club Corners Cosmo Lounge Legends Olympic Sports Bar Polo Lounge Tracks Sports Bar

17 296-660 17 535-000 16 031-111 17 727-230 17 826-001 17 290-600 17 725-000 17 531-122 Evlyn & Denys

Diana Hayden & Priya

Eliss & Yana

Sinan Ali & Muraf

BTM February 2012 125

reportvalentine’s

Editor’s Picks

Valentine’s Day is always one of those days that suddenly seems to arrive with no warning, so instead of being caught out, check out our selection of perfect gifts.

Roses are Red

It may be slightly generic for Valentine’s Day, but you really can’t go wrong with a beautiful lush bouquet of roses. Embarrass your loved one and get them sent to her office; she’ll turn the same colour as the flowers but secretly she’ll love it. Available at Au Nom De La Rose

Delicate Jewels

If there’s someone really special in your life, wooing her with jewellery is the most classic sign of devotion. This 18K gold collection from Farfasha comes in heart-shaped designs complete with a necklace, earrings and bracelet for that special occasion. Available at Damas Jewellery.

The One

Sensual and irresistible, Chloé’s latest perfume will perfectly complement the woman in your life. The scent is created from a powdery floral aura and features coppery highlights creating an instantly recognisable scent that will remind you of her. Available at leading outlets.

Wine and Dine Me

Ladies love to dress up — especially if there is a special occasion that demands it such as Valentine’s Day! This wine-red silk dress from Massimo Dutti is demure and elegant and will ensure she is the belle of the ball at any occasion. Available at Massimo Dutti.

Sassy Lady

Bright red lips are always guaranteed to stop traffic. A bold pop of colour on the lips will boost any outfit and instantly give a confident and sexy vibe. A matte-finish product, like this one from MAC, will stay on even throughout dinner. Available at MAC.

126 February 2012 BTM

showcase AU NOM DE LA ROSE

Floral Affection Valentine’s Day comes with certain expectations including the most important of all; the perfect gift. Surprise your loved one with a beautiful bouquet from Au Nom de la Rose.

There is always a beauty found in flowers that no other gift can surpass which is proven by the pure art of Au Nom de la Rose flowers. A mere decorative arrangement becomes a work of art that gives you the perfect way to convey your feelings when words aren’t enough.

The stunning colour palette combined with the distinctive arrangements makes for a unique twist to the traditional Valentines gift.

Established in 1991 in Paris, Au Nom de la Rose has expanded internationally with stores in Belgium, Spain, Italy, Russia, Kuwait and Bahrain. The selected flowers arrive in Bahrain daily from Ecuador, Holland, and Africa with most of the designs coming from Paris. An arrangement from the luxurious flower shop will sport a classical European style with a modern touch.

There are plenty of pre-existing styles for you to choose from, if you aren’t sure which individual flowers to select. Au Nom’s signature round bouquets are ideal if you are looking for a contemporary touch on a traditional gift; an array of colours light up the arrangement which is expertly wrapped in white paper, in place of the usual plastic wrapping.

Various scented roses are available, including Yves Piaget, a fuchsia rose, Extase, a red rose, Paul Ricard, a pale yellow rose and Ritz, a white/green rose. Located in Seef Mall gate 6, the shop also offers teas, candles, chocolates, perfumes and services for corporate events, press conferences, weddings, births and much more.

E Call 17 561-616.

bystanderthismonth

Al Hilal Group Direct Services Staff Party The Al Hilal Group celebrated the commitment of its home delivery and direct services teams at Baan Saeng Thai Restaurant in Adliya. Hosted by Samuel Jacob, general manager, Hilal Direct Services, senior administrative colleages, area supervisors, the delivery teams and their families were honoured at the event held last month

Jagdeesh, Samuel & Jaya

Nooh, Olvy, Geoff Milne, Ronnie Middleton, Samuel Jacob, Jagdeesh & Jayakesavan

Chamari, Dhanushka, Thimali & Harshini

Edward & Roopa

Murugan

Elpie & May

Geoff Milne, Ronnie Middleton & Samuel Jacob with staff

BTM February 2012 127

bystanderthismonth

JJ's Irish New Year's Eve Party JJ's Irish held a New Year's Eve Party featuring British band The Money and Ministry of Sound 20th Anniversary DJ Jamie Williams

The Money on stage

Alice & Grace

DJ Jamie Williams

Shannon & Nicole Aarti, Correy, Martin, Sacha & Rony

Alaa, MJ, Yara & MK

Karim & Ziyanna

Tony & Milad

Bambi & Amira

Lina & Muneer

DJ Dwayne Anthony

Carmen & Keshia

Rob & Angel

Nonie & Neville Festive Party Nonie & Neville hosted a festive party for a number of their friends at the reidence in Saar last month

Nonie & Neville

Ann, Jennie, Debbie & Bob

Melanie, Natalie & Katie

David & Vanessa

Samantha, Jane & Trevor

Karina, Qays & Kevin

Debbie & Sean

Hemant & Urvashi

Beth & Evelyn

128 February 2012 BTM

Meave, John, Jane & Tony

Sarah & Dana

Rania & Katie

Joe & Carine

Clever cleaner LG has introduced an innovative robotic vacuum cleaner complete with ultrasonic and infrared sensors to navigate every corner of the room. The agility of the HOM-BOT 2.0 will save on collisions throughout the home!

Available at AJM Kooheji.

Love time

What’s New Edited by Alison Coldridge

Rosy cheeks

Your watch is a functional accessory that you probably wear every day, so make sure it’s one that you love. This timepiece from Smalto features a classic oval pearl face circled by miniature crystals that suits any outfit or situation.

Available at A La Mode.

Get a perfect demure complexion with Lancôme’s Roseraie des Delices. The light blush evens out and illuminates the skin tone whilst gently warming the cheeks for a brightened complexion, leaving you looking beautiful.

Available at leading outlets.

Be-jewelled Delicate and unique, Bvlgari has yet again created a fine jewellery masterpiece. This ring comes from the brand’s Mediterranean Eden collection and is a yellow-gold ring with a pink quartz stone. Beautiful on any hand.

Available at Bvlgari.

Smelling sweet Valentino’s ‘Valentines’ perfume has arrived in perfect time for the love-liest day of the year. The fragrance is exquisitely packaged with floral embellishments and has a fresh floral composition that is wearable all day long.

Available at leading outlets.

BTM February 2012 129

marketplace

HSBC

Saving You Money!

Stop worrying about your financial outgoings and take advantage of the firstever sale at HSBC Bahrain.

Save money on banking and financial products and enjoy the spare cash!

Shakofa Asghar

130 February 2012 BTM

Last month, HSBC Bank Middle East launched its sale campaign for the first time in Bahrain. The sale went live on January 22 and is currently offering customers reduced pricing on a range of banking and financial products. Prices have been cut on a huge range of financial products plus there is the opportunity for all HSBC customers in Bahrain to win cash prizes and alluring discounts.

The sale, which will run until March 8, provides the best-inmarket lucrative discounts and special offers for customers on a whole range of schemes. Customers on conventional mortgages, personal loans, vehicle loans, credit cards and Amanah personal finance, vehicle finance and premier and advance accounts will all benefit.

“HSBC is the first bank to introduce such an extensive retail banking sale in Bahrain. We look forward for a phenomenal response from existing as well as new HSBC customers,” says Shakofa Asghar, head of retail banking and wealth management.

HSBC customers will find their dining and shopping experience double up as new credit card customers will win an Entertainer booklet with discount vouchers to the value of BD2,000. The offer also includes a lifetime waiver of annual fees as long as cardholders maintain the annual minimum spend specified.

The annual sale also came hand-in-hand with an enticing cash prize. The first 25 customers that opened a premier account and the first 50 customers to open an advance account were entitled to receive a cash credit of BD225 and BD90 into their accounts, respectively, provided they met specific terms and conditions.

Customers can obtain a personal loan and Amanah personal finance for amounts of up to BD60,000, at an interest rate starting from 5.9 per cent and a profit rate starting from 3.22 per cent respectively. In addition, customers will also get an HSBC credit card with no annual fees, as long as the cardholders maintain the annual minimum spend specified. Prospective homebuyers also benefit greatly from the sale and can pick up a bargain starting from five per cent on mortgages for completed properties. Customers requiring vehicle finance should also take advantage of the competitive rates starting from 2.99 per cent.

“The HSBC sale presents an excellent opportunity for customers to plan their financial requirements for the entire year in advance and secure bargains on personal finance, credit cards, vehicle and home finance. The campaign illustrates HSBC’s commitment to delivering consistent, compelling value propositions for our customers. We are confident our customers will find these great offers unmatched in the market,” Shakofa adds. E Visit www.hsbc.com.bh.

ASIA JEWELLERS

Exclusive Designs

deLaCour watches are designed to be forwardthinking and incredibly luxurious, enticing customers with unique features and sleek designs.

In the last eight years, Swiss watchmaker deLaCour has secured a position as one of the leading watch brands in the luxury market, due to the creativity and innovation shown in design, aesthetics and function.

If you are after a watch that is exclusive, then deLaCour is the place to go. Each collection created is a limited edition and is made as an alternative to those existing on the market. The designs are avant-garde, highlighted through the brand slogan ‘since tomorrow’, showing a drive to be ahead of the market and design for the future.

The first watch designed, the bichrono, was uniquely placed as the first watch ever to feature a double automatic chronograph movement [DASH] in other words, the watch showed both GMT and local time.

Presently, deLaCour is available in over 35 countries worldwide and many sports personalities are public fans.

José Mourinho collaboration At the start of this year, deLaCour named Portuguese football manager, José Mourinho as their brand ambassador. José stated at the time, “I am embarking on this project because I like the brand. I give little importance to sponsorship opportunities; I can live without them, except when something captivates me, as deLaCour does.”

Prior to the collaboration, José was frequently photographed sporting a deLaCour watch, and must now enjoy wearing his own personal designs from the ‘Mourinho City Ego Collection’.

Personalisation of this deLaCour collection is secured with a quote from José engraved onto the back of the watch face.

The collection combines sporting elements such as a stopwatch with lavish design elements including a graphite bezel, honeycomb dial and black titanium case.

E Call 17 587-888.

BTM February 2012 131

marketplace

BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Hormonal Imbalance The thyroid gland is a large butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. By producing thyroid hormones, the gland helps regulate our body’s metabolism.

Dr Yadla Sreenivas

132 February 2012 BTM

The two most common thyroid diseases are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid produces either too few or too many hormones respectively. Both conditions are much more common in women than men.

“The most common cause for hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune disease that occurs when your immune system attacks and damages thyroid cells,” explains Dr Yadla Sreenivas, endocrinology and internal medicine consultant at Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH).

Other causes are viral infections, radiation treatment to the neck or head, an iodine deficiency or excess, or even as a sideeffect from the drug lithium.

Most patients are found to have symptoms that include weight gain, hair loss, dry skin, brittle nails, fatigue, constipation, memory problems and even depression. With pregnant women, the condition can result in anaemia, muscle pain, congestive heart failure and placental abnormalities to name a few.

It is easy to diagnose hypothyroidism with simple blood tests that measure levels of thyroid hormones; however, sometimes this condition goes undiagnosed because the symptoms develop gradually.

“Women who already have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism should have a TSH test as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. Thyroid hormone requirements increase during pregnancy, often leading to the need to increase the levothyroxine dose,” says Dr Yadla.

Hyperthyroidism is exactly the opposite of hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is enlarged and produces too many hormones. It most commonly occurs in women aged between 20 and 40 and can also develop during or just after pregnancy.

Its most common cause is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system makes antibodies that enlarge the thyroid and leading to over production of hormones.

In early pregnancy, very high levels of HCG hormones — as seen in severe forms of morning sickness — may cause a hyperthyroid state called temporary gestational thyrotoxicosis, which doesn’t require any treatment. This condition usually disappears by week 18 to 20 of pregnancy.

Common symptoms include weight loss, nervousness, palpitations, feeling hot, increased sweating and inability to sleep. Muscle weakness, particularly in arms and legs, as well as bulging eyes can also be noticed.

“If your thyroid produces too little hormone, synthetic thyroid hormone, typically thyroxin is given to the patients. Typically tests are done while taking this drug and the hospital ensures the right dose is administered. Once your thyroid is stable, stick with the brand and take it every day,” explains Dr Yadla.

However, treating hyperthyroidism is a little more complicated. Initially your doctor may start you on medications to slow down your heart rate and tremors. Anti-thyroid medications are given to patients to lower hormone levels while other available treatment options include radioactive iodine and surgery. E Call 17 812-000.

THE HOME STORE

Spring Forward You don’t need to completely redo your furnishings to suit the changing seasons; The Home Store will inspire you to use simple adjustments to transform your home.

The Home Store’s extensive collection contains designs to suit every taste. As spring fast approaches and the temperatures begin to soar, you can escape the outdoor heat by creating a refreshing haven inside your own house.

“With the shift of the season approaching, small changes in your home can make a big difference. We often underestimate the impact interiors can impact how we feel at home. Simple adjustments such as moving around the furniture, playing with lighting, colours and accessories will do the magic,” explain the store’s visual merchandising team.

The Home Store recommends creating a clutter-free zone in your home that acts as a welcome escape from the rush of the world outside. Look for furniture with storage options which are functional and help you de-clutter your room in an effective way.

Bringing elements of nature into the home will help you feel relaxed and inspired and modernise your home. Opt for colours such as vegetable greens, blushing blooms and bright yellow.

The Home Store also stocks a wide range of items that use natural materials like bamboo, cane, rattan and wood. A water feature is another ideal to create a contemporary look.

Guaranteed savings Currently, The Home Store is offering customers a minimum of 25 per cent off on all purchases, prompting you to head over to the store and grab everything you need to spring clean and rejuvenate your home.

E Call 17 556-001.

nimu Mi

m

25

New Arrivals

Daily Timings 10am to 10pm BTM February 2012 133

marketplace ROCHE BOBOIS

Turn Your Home Around If you’re wondering how to set the mood for romance, we have the answer. Transform your home with these three stylish furniture pieces, and notes of love will soon fill the air.

Taking centre stage Why take your date out, when you can have such an exclusive night where they can feel at home. Dinner makes the evening. The setting, thus, plays a major role in bringing a touch of luxury to the dining area. The Fleur de Fer dining table from the original Roche Bobois line is made in hot-forged wrought iron.

The collection is available in blue-green, rust and black colours; even in steel varnish; with a rectangular 15 mm glass top, this eye-catcher comes in different sizes as well. The line also includes a cocktail table, console and end unit in case you were hoping to complete the look.

The floral effect Any dull room can be fixed with a single colourful item. You’ve seen it in books and movies, but you can now add zing to your monotonous bedroom with another Roche Bobois original — the Mayflower chair. Designed by Fabrice Berrux, this pretty piece boasts a solid wood frame and particle panels, and sports monobloc seating and backrest in foam and batting. Available in 10 Jersey fabric colours, it’s built to stand out.

Ramps to rooms Roche Bobois has a bit of a history when it comes to collaborations with famous fashion designers; one which includes ranges by Missoni, Kenzo and even Jean Paul Gaultier. The latest addition to this designer list is Sonia Rykiel who, for the first time, breathed her charm into the super-chic home décor brand with the back cushions for the sectional sofa designed by Philippe Bouix.

Upholstered in In Love velvet, the structure of this couch is made of solid wood, plywood and particle board. It also sports elastic strap suspension and metal legs with a black nickel finish.

The seat cushions are made of foam and fibre, while the back cushions contain goose feather and fibres. The In Love sofa is defined by its padded armrest and meridienne back.

E Call 17 582-901 or www.roche-bobois.com.

In Love sofa

134 February 2012 BTM

Fleur de Fer

Axiome

Mayflower chair

Proxima bookshelf

NATUZZI

Elegant Winter Colours Phoenicia Décor’s Natuzzi collection provides inspiration for stylish living with sophisticated items combined to create a welcoming home.

Marlene armchair

Italian furniture company Natuzzi has designed a number of luxe pieces to enhance your home this season. One of the key items of the collection is the Marlene armchair, which is available in a leather and wintery blue fabric as well as over 200 other colours.

Three mirror-topped tables, Ginger, Doris and Grace, are also striking furnishings that are the result of a highly successful collaboration with a designer from Paola Navone.

To complete the Natuzzi style of winter total living, there is the sophisticated Proxima bookshelf, in refined tones of oak and crystal that boasts a geometric shape made up of five transparent tempered glass shelves. Available in white and coffee colours, the Proxima guarantees a wide versatility, as modules can be combined to suit one’s living space area.

The Natuzzi collection also features the elegant Zen lamp with white blown glass lampshade and the Cubistic candleholder with its unusual faceted shape.

The combination of these furnishings creates a sophisticated reading corner where you can hide away on cold winter days in the company of a good book. Relax in the Marlene armchair, comfortable and welcoming with its classic lines which evoke memories of the past. This is an armchair inspired by tradition which matches, in a play of contrasts, the furnishings and the accessories of Natuzzi’s expansive collection.

Phoenicia Décor is located within the Seef district and houses numerous designs, collections and styles under one roof. So, pop down to the showroom, which you can browse at your pleasure to transform your house into more than just another home. E Call Phoenicia Décor 17 564-444.

BTM February 2012 135

marketplace

YUSIF BIN YUSIF FAKHRO

Domestic Perfection Yusif Bin Yusif Fakhro brings you a leading international brand that perfects your home appliance experience; Miele.

136 February 2012 BTM

Founded 111 years ago, Miele has insisted that ‘Made in Germany’ is a promise of quality. According to the company, this is a promise of trust; an expectation on which customers can bank when purchasing any Miele product.

Being German, though, is not in itself sufficient for this company. The team at Miele continues to follow the words of its founding fathers, Carl Miele and Reinhard Zinkann: “Success is only possible in the long-term if one is totally and utterly convinced of the quality of one’s products.”

That results in a commitment to values such as quality, innovation and sustainability. Immer Besser — Forever Better — has been the company philosophy from its onset, representing an absolute and uncompromising dedication to a product and its development. When you see the name Miele, you can count on undisputed durability, reliability, and security.

Since its foundation, Miele has manufactured high-quality appliances and equipment for both domestic and commercial use. The product range offered from the company includes a wide variety of household appliances that includes refrigerators, coffee-makers, dishwashers, cookers, ovens, steamers, washing machines and vacuum cleaners. With its

reputation for exceptional quality, Miele is also the preferred brand in professional establishments such as medical laboratories and restaurant kitchens.

The customer, moreover, is the focal point of every project at Miele; that’s why products are designed and rigorously tested so you can enjoy and rely on them for decades. All its appliances, for instance, undergo a 10,000-hour endurance test, which equates to a life span of 20 years, to ensure flawless usability.

State-of-the-art technology To maintain its pre-eminent position in the markets, and to maintain customers’ loyalty, continuous innovation and product development are bywords at Miele. Couple this with the precision of German engineering, the use of the finest materials and an emphasis on customer satisfaction, and it is easy to see why Miele has earned a global reputation as the leading firm in its field of home appliances. With many international-renowned awards for its outstanding reliability, durability and levels of service, Miele deserves its title of ‘the most trusted brand’.

E Call 17 408-150.

AL GHALIA FARMS

A Fresh Start

Al Ghalia’s farming division is dedicated to growing high quality produce to serve at its restaurants and aims to build on its success and goals in the coming year.

Al Ghalia’s portfolio is generally considered by the public to be predominantly full of high-end restaurants and cafés throughout the Kingdom — Café Lilou, Mezzaluna, Monsoon and Zoë. The company also owns farmland in Bahrain — the reason why the food you eat at these restaurants tastes so delicious and fresh.

Insisting on upholding the company slogan ‘Locally grown, naturally grown’, Al Ghalia Farms produce only quality homegrown ingredients and the hydroponic vegetables grown can be purchased in supermarkets around the Kingdom.

Being an environmentally-friendly company is of high importance. The farms adhere to a ‘greener’ method of farming that saves an incredible amount of water, is pesticide-free and can produce a fully grown crop within just 28 days whilst maintaining nearly zero waste. All of the Al Ghalia Farms’ plants are grown in water instead of soil so that the nutrients needed are circulated directly to the roots. This enables plants to spend less energy on creating root systems and more energy on developing fruits, flowers and leaves.

The company’s farming initiative derived from a need for good quality local produce for its restaurants. This quality was considered to be lacking in other local farms despite a desire from Al Ghalia to support the local community’s businesses and buy purely local produce. A large and constant supply of food is required to stock all of Al Ghalia’s food and beverage outlets, an order that local farms were not able to fulfill; ergo, Al Ghalia Farms was born.

Aspiring to grow and develop In 2012, Al Ghalia aims to proudly accomplish greater achievements through progressing with a higher approach of excellence and standard quality.

Al Ghalia Farms recently received two endorsements so that it might build upon its current position to reach new levels of trade. The first of these endorsements was from Global GAP, an international sector that sets standards for certification of agricultural products across the globe. With the support of these credentials, Al Ghalia Farms is currently accredited to export and deal in international trade.

Secondly, the company received the LEAF qualification cementing its devotion and determination to prioritising a higher level of integrated farm management. These endorsements have prompted the company to set a goal to precede any other establishment throughout the Kingdom.

Recently, Al Ghalia Farms also participated in the Kingdom’s most forefront agricultural event of the year, the Bahrain International Garden Show. At the show, the company was awarded the reputable honour of ‘best stand’ in the exhibition.

E Call 17 710-271.

BTM February 2012 137

marketplace NOVOTEL AL DANA RESORT

Designed for Leisure An international deluxe resort, Novotel Al Dana Resort combines traditionally elegant Arabic architecture with a modern touch.

Novotel Al Dana Resort is located in the heart of the Kingdom’s diplomatic and business area, a five-minute drive from the international airport, and is also close to popular shopping malls, tourist attractions and entertainment centres.

Those who have stayed here know that it’s hard to believe you are away from home. The hotel boasts 129 deluxe rooms and 37 suites, each with a balcony with a splendid view of the temperature-controlled pool or the private beach. You even get your own mini-bar and safety box apart from the benefit of free Wi-Fi access.

If the 24 hours room service isn’t what you are looking for, step into any three of their luxurious food and beverage outlets — Zytoun Mediterranean Grill Restaurant, La Perle Seafood Restaurant and Le Bellevue Lounge — for a unique dining experience.

With seven meeting rooms that cater for up to 80 delegates, this hotel is the perfect place to talk business. They even offer a pillar-less ballroom for a larger gathering. The business centre is home to the latest high-tech audio and visual equipment required to make your presentations a grand success.

Taking the family spirit into consideration, Novotel Al Dana provides free accommodation and breakfast for two children under the age of 16 who share the room with their parents. A kids’ corner has been arranged for children between the age of two and 10. The resort also has indoor and outdoor play areas to keep them occupied while you indulge in a healthy getaway in their wellness club with the sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room and a relaxing massage.

E Call 17 298-008 or visit www.novotel.com or www.accorhotels.com.

bystanderthismonth

Bahrain Family Leisure Staff Party Bahrain Family Leisure hosted its annual staff party at Cucino Italiana restaurant at Al Safir Hotel in Juffair

Tony & Paul

Julie, Leny, Cynthia & Melody

Elton & Sohel

Ramdas, Sathyan & Sukumar

Marco & Mithun

Nelson, Nigesh & Sohel

Seema, Aditya & Renjith

Dinesh, Sathyaraj, Shaiju & Baiju

Unni, Subash & Suresh

Sabina, Seema & Cynthia

Nelson, Moosa & Anselm

138 February 2012 BTM

Mustafa & Salman

Chloe

listingsthismonth Social Clubs

Arts Culture Art Galleries Al Riwaq Art Gallery Albareh Art Gallery Arabesque Art Gallery Art Lounge Ella Art Gallery

17 717-441 17 717-707 17 722-916 17 580-522 17 292-815

Art Galleries & Framing

Bahrain Art Framing Centre 17 717165 Lamarkiz Framing & Gallery 17 596-284

Arts & Cultural Groups

Alliance Française 17 683-295 Bahrain Arts Society 17 590-562 Contemporary Art Society 3 9224-002 Historical & Archaeological Society 17 727-895 La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 17 230-123

Crafts

Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre Crafts Centre Gallery Celebrations L’Atelier Art Lounge Things-To-Do

17 611-900 17 254-688 17 595-791 17 599-030 17 590-409

Ballet Centre Ballare School Futureshape Studio Salsa Bahrain Sampaguita Club Victoria Dance Centre

17 693-232 17 300-021 17 590-088 3 9676-349 3 9106-589 3 987-6215

Dance

Drama, Film and Theatre

Bahrain Cinema Club 17 725-959 Dilmun Amateur Dramatics 17 690-926 Folk Poetry Society 17 761-000

Indian arts & culture

Institute for Performing Arts 17 231-717 Kalabhavan Bahrain Institute 17 717-271 Konkan Singers Club 17 243-511

Islamic Culture Al Bayan Society Beit Al Quran Discover Islam

17 645-156 17 261-555 17 531-400

Folk Poetry Society Pakistan Urdu Literary

17 761-000 17 776-629

Literature Museums

Bapco Club Dilmun Club Filipino Club Marina Club Pakistan Club The British Club The Country Club The Indian Club The Sri Lanka Club The Young Goans Club

17 753-666 17 690-926 17 262-143 17 291-527 17 258-520 17 278-245 17 593-593 17 253-157 17 231-354 3 9455-207

Bhatia Mitra Mandal Kannada Sangha Karnataka Social Club Keraleeya Samajam Shree Nayrana Cultural Shri Gujarati Samaj Tamil Social Association

3 9601-789 17 271-257 17 254-257 17 251-878 17 255-517 3 9019-462 3 9603-564

Awali Caledonian Society Bahrain Irish Society Bahrain Welsh Society Royal Society of St. George

3 6366-458 3 9800-511 3 9467-310 3 9726-329

American Chamber Comm.

Australian Association Bar Society Bankers’ Society of Bahrain British Business Forum Businessmen’s Association French Business Club

17 580-516 3 9206-432 17 725-665 17 728-003 3 9651-755 17 229-009 17 748-999

Alliance Française Berlitz The British Council

17 683-295 17 827-847 17 261-555

Baloch Club Garden Club Pakistan Association Skal International Bahrain

17 292-231 17 727-625 3 9415-200 17 22-4050

Other Indian clubs

Other Societies

Business Associations

Language Courses

Other Associations

Sports Recreation Aerobics Coral Beach Club 17 312-777 Curves Fitness Clinic for Women 17 691-496 Ez Fit SportPlex 17 692-378 World Beat Fitness Centre 17 612-576

Athletics/Running

Al Hayat Museum Al Oraifi Museum Currency Museum National Museum Oil Museum

17 290-101 17 535-112 17 547-700 17 298-777 17 753-475

Hash House Harriers Bahrain Road Runners

Bahrain Music Institute Classic Institute of Music Manama Singers Sar Music Centre

17 721-999 17 728-791 17 642-119 17 794-898

Bowling

Awali Photo Society Bahrain Photography Club

17 764-468 17 590-551

Bahrain Pottery Society Studio Ceramics

17 786-969 17 599-026

17 862-620 3 6992-288

British Club Netball Dilmun Netball Club Filipino Club Basketball Netball Club

3 8357-181 3 9911-848 17 262-143 3 9911-848

Awali Bowling Centre

17 753-666

Awali Cricket Club

17 756-959

Awali Riding Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding Centre The Country Club

17 756-525 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Manama Toastmasters Club 3 9451-182

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football

17 692-378 17 695-809

Clubs Societies Ladies Clubs

Awali Golf Club Royal Golf Club

17 756-770 17 750-777

Gulf Speed 1 Kart Zone Silver Go Kart

3 9444-885 17 450-000 17 780-011

Sailing Club Yacht Club

17 836-078 17 700-667

Aces Taekwondo Academy Al Ahli Karate School Bahrain Karate Center Bin Jamal Taekwondo Center Delmon Taekwondo School Futureshape Studio

3 9658-741 3 9659-510 17 612-576 3 6222-892 3 9689-659 17 592-019

Music

Photography Pottery

Public Speaking

American Women’s Assoc. 17 685-882 Australasian Women (AWG) 3 8395-803 Awali Ladies Association 17 678-947 Business Women’s Society 17 721-188 Discover Islam Ladies 17 531-400 Hamad Town Women’s Association 17 422-005 Indian Ladies Association 17 531-468 International Ladies Group 17 729-128 Pakistani Women’s Assoc. 17 710-944 Young Ladies Society 17 262-237 Young Ladies Toastmasters 17 626-237 Women’s Society 17 826-777

140 Februart 2012 BTM

Ball Games

Cricket

Equestrian

Football & Rugby Golf

Karting

Marine Sports Martial Arts

Ghassan’s Style Kickboxing Karate Centre Taichi & Wushu Center Japan Karate Association Marina Club Reza Martial Arts Centre Shotokan Karate Yong Quan Tha Chi Zen-Do Bahrain

3 9458-293 3 9247-769 17 813-856 17 591-237 3 9690-008 17 694-646 3 9626-211 3 9667-624 17 611-909

Fitness Plus Physique Fitness Centre World Beat Fitness Centre 24-hour Fitness

17 593-593 17 694-646 17 612-576 17 716-999

Bodyline Spa Coral Beach Club La Fontaine Spa Massage Centre

17 793-932 17 312-777 17 230-123 17 264-064

Bridge Club Bahrain Scrabble League

17 713-080 17 242-641

Dessange Health Club La Fontaine World Beat Fitness Center

17 713-999 17 230-123 17 612-576

Filipino Club Tennis Group Table Tennis Club Tennis Club The Country Club

3 9527-587 17 729-756 17 729-561 17 593-593

Ann Beauty Center and Spa Bellacura Beauty Lounge Dessange Spa Futoon Beauty & Fitness Pineapple Spa Profile Fitness Centre Wellness Resort Zoya Beauty Centre

17 623-704 17 697-950 17 713-999 17 777-994 17 712-000 17 727-766 17 795-961 17 740-800

Art of Living Foundation

39 653-007

Jimmy’s Snooker/Billiards

17 71 6-147

Mind Games Pilates

Racket games

Snooker

National Associations

Amateur Athletic Association 17 684-905 Badminton & Squash Fed. 17 292-662 Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Basketball Association 17 741-010 Bowling Association 17 822-077 Chess Federation 17 252-133 Cycling Association 17 650-079 Disabled Sports Federation 17 789-191 Endurance Federation 17 836-199 Football Association 17 729-563 Handball Association 17 720-321 Hockey Association 17 253-209 Maritime Sports Association 17 836-078 Martial Arts Association 17 650-676 Mind Sports Association 17 340-016 Shooting & Fencing Assoc. 17 750-006 Snooker Association 17 825-301 Swimming Association 17 680-867 Table Tennis Association 17 729-393 Volleyball Association 17 271-139

Teens Kids Athletics Road Runners

3 6992-288

Ballet Centre Victoria Dance Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

3 9676-349 3 9876-215 17 612-576

Ez-Fit SportPlex SLC grounds, Riffa

17 692-378 17 276-134

Ez-Fit SportPlex Rugby Football The Country Club

17 692-378 17 695-809 17 593-593

Awali Riding Club Dilmun Club Riding School Shakhoora Riding School The Country Club

17 756-525 17 692-986 17 690-448 17 591-103 17 593-593

Sailing Club Yacht Club

17 700-677 17 700-677

Aces Taekwondo Academy Al Ahli Karate School Al Hala Sports Club Balouch Club British Club Delmon Tae Kwon Do School Taichi & Wushu Centre

3 9658-741 3 9659-510 3 9966-139 17 292-231 17 728-245 3 9689-659 3 6437-931

Dance

Cricket

Football & Rugby Horse Riding

Marine & Sailing Martial Arts

Health Fitness Fitness Gyms Al Gosaibi Gym Coral Beach Club Dessange Health Club Ez-Fit Sportsplex Ghassans Gym

17 293-221 17 312-777 17 713-999 17 692-379 17 695-911

Fitness Gyms

Health Spas (Women only)

Meditation Centres

Bahrain Wellness Centre Bayoga Centre Meditation Centre Physiotherapy Centre World Beat Fitness Centre

17 795-961 39 460-996 17 712-545 17 722-012 17 612-576

Banyan Tree Resort & Spa Crowne Plaza Health Club Golden Tulip Health Club Gulf Hotel Health Club Le Mirage, Diplomat Hotel Regency Fitness Centre RJ’s, Ramee Int'l Hotel Sheraton Fitness Sporting Club, Ritz-Carlton The Gym, Mövenpick Hotel

17 845-000 17 531-122 17 535-000 17 713-000 17 531-666 17 227-777 36 270-302 17 524-570 17 580-000 17 460-000

Health Clubs (Hotels)

Kids Fitness Centres

Children’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports (CHAOSS) 17 592-096 17 566-566 My Gym Bahrain

QR Codes: On-The-Go Reading You can now read Bahrain This Month while you are out and about, from the comfort of your own phone — just simply download a free app which allows you direct access to the online magazine. Both iPhone, iPad2 and BlackBerry users can enjoy this simple convenience by following these simple steps;

iPhone/iPad2 users Step 1: Search for i-nigma on the Apple app store Step 2: Download i-nigma on your iPhone or Pad, free of charge Step 3: After downloading is complete, click on the i-nigma icon Step 4: Finally, simply scan the QR code to be directed to a page on the designated page on the web

BlackBerry users Step 1: Search for ‘QR Code Scanner Pro’ in the Blackberry app world, either online or directly from your phone Step 2: Download the app, free of charge Step 3: Click on the application and scan the code Step 4: On scanning, you will be directed to site referenced in the QR code There are two QR codes used this issue; on the front cover, on First Word (page 11).

winwin

Bahrain This Month gives readers an exclusive chance to win watches from Sharif Group.

AD SEEK

To win, all you have to do is correctly answer the questions below.

1

Where is the Dadaab Bahrain clinic? ___________________________

2 3

Where is Annie being staged? ___________________________ Who aims to inspire employees? ___________________________

HINT: You can find the answers in this issue of BAHrAIN THIS MONTH.

Who got it right?

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!

Bahrain This Month received 58 entries last month, 49 of which answered all the questions correctly. congratulations to everyone, particularly our three winners: Winner : Tasneem Shafiq Second Place : Suresha Gowda ST TH Third Place : rabindra Bahadur

1 MARCH - 16 APRIL 2012

Last month’s solutions

1.

1. Bahrain International Air Show

4

Where can you find Mohd Omar

2. January 16-18 3. Nazar Yahya

Khalil?

4. Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro

___________________________

6. Dublin

5. Jacob Thomas/Kyle Henry 7. Burger Wisconsin 8. BMW M5

5

Who runs BNH? ___________________________

9. The Yellow chilli 10. Munich

2.

Ad Seek

6 7 8

Who has a LEAF qualification? ___________________________ Who released a red album? ___________________________ What car did we test drive? ___________________________

1. Amwaj Marina Market 2. Marafie clinic 3. Burger Lounge 4. Bahrain Air Show

Name:

Address:

3.

Telephone:

Email:

TOM TOM CREW ."3$)

9 10

Who runs a cigar evening? ___________________________ &WFOU #Z Where is Albert L performing?

cpr:

16TH - 17th MARCH ARAD FORT

Entry deadline is February 15. 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.

The pulsing energy of hip-hop meets 4. the raw physicality of acrobatics in an a contortion Having thrilled audiences through the UK, Europe, the US and Canada, Tom T brand of urban acrobatics to Bahrain’s audience. A show where skill and athl February 2012

gravity-defying manoeuvres, astonishing beat-boxing, improbable 'PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO $POUBDU 'BY & NBJM BENJO!NFEJBFEHFNF DPN 7JTJU VT PO XXX BMBBMJBSUGFTU DPN

___________________________

BTM

141

tarotscopethismonth

AquArius

Jan 20 – Feb 18 The seeds of financial success are yours to plant in February with rich rewards set to come in the middle part of the year. A young child is proving particularly loving and may lead you to reflect on your good fortune where family members are concerned. A surprise piece of good news will reach you around the 17th, concerning a matter which has proved to be a particular worry over recent months. It is the starting point for a consolidation of your efforts to achieve the goals that you seek to attain. You may feel slightly low over a sick relative or friend and any support you can give will be warmly appreciated. A windfall from an unexpected source arrives on the 25th but watch yourself with DIY on the 19th.

Card of the Month —The Three of Coins For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

Pisces February 21 – March 20 The road that sees you through February is a rocky one and you will need to call upon a great deal of patience and emotional strength to negotiate safe passage towards a return to normality.

Of primary concern will be a relative’s health as a dramatic deterioration sees them slipping into an alarming state. If you still care about them, encourage them to visit a doctor or perhaps abandon any foolish indulgences or addictions that might be contributing to their decline. A period away from your partner may cause you to reflect on the richness of your relationship and this could be a comforting crutch. Lucky 9 promises a surprise in a yellow box.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Swords

Aries March 21 – April 20 Things may have been looking financially tight for you over January; with the Christmas spending out of the way you will start to get back on your feet and regain some semblance of stability to your bank balance again this month. Additionally, any concerns you may have had over certain legal or tax commitments will have been unnecessary as the matter is resolved in your favour. Travel on or after Valentine’s Day will provide you with some welcomed time away with a loved one and should help you both to focus your objectives for the coming year.

Overall, you can look forward to a positive period in your life for this month and potentially beyond.

Card of the Month — The Ten of Coins

142 February 2012 BTM

TAurus April 21 – May 20 Some of you will possibly be recovering medical procedures this month, which will prove a relief and perhaps also force you to consider slowing down in certain areas of your life. Listen to the advice given and don’t try to rush back into work until you are fully recovered. Money concerns will be slightly alleviated as you begin to structure your finances and plan for the future. In the past, you may have found your priorities also seem to be more immediate, with little concern for tomorrow; now, finally, you have discovered a place and a person in life that makes you want to lay down some solid roots and grow. However, before this can happen you need to abandon your fears and follow your heart.

Card of the Month — The King of Coins

GeMiNi May 21 – June 22 It seems rather apt that you should have this card in the month of February, because of its obvious association with Valentine’s Day, so for those of you embarking upon any new relationships you can expect mainly positive results. For some it may even be connected to a long-term friend or business associate. Matters closer to home will see an emotional family upheaval set you back slightly but you need to continue believing that any changes will ultimately end favourably and you’ll make it through the worst episodes. Career-wise, a great opportunity in your preferred field will land in your lap before the end of the month and you’ll need to be quick to press your interest ahead of other candidates.

Card of the Month —The Lovers

cANcer June 21 – July 20 An individual entering your life this month will make such an impact that you could find yourself profoundly affected, well beyond February. It won’t necessarily be a romantic association but there will be a powerful connection almost from the first meeting. An introduction around the 21st will set the ball rolling. On the health front, you should be cautious about anything to do with your eyes, especially if you have noticed a deterioration in your vision over the last few months. Don’t allow vanity to intrude on matters of greater importance. Finally, those of you planning a trip this month should ensure all travel documents are in place before committing to anything financially.

Card of the Month —The Six of Wands

leo July 23 — August 22 You could be in for fireworks this month Leo as a mystery admirer takes his or her chance to reveal the true extent of their feelings to you with mixed results, especially if some of you are involved with another person! Don’t be too surprised when the Valentine’s card comes through the post but prepare to have to wriggle yourself free from an awkward position when you are questioned on the matter by family, friends and in some cases, partners. This isn’t to say that you won’t be flattered and even that some of you might be tempted. Many Leos will have started the year feeling somewhat flat and unhappy with a relationship and this type of interest might be just what you need to inject a little excitement back into your life.

Card of the Month —The High Priestess

VirGo August 21 – september 22 Love is often a splendid and wondrous thing but when it goes wrong it can quickly become painful and difficult to deal with.

February may not turn out to be everything you will hope it to be and some of you could suffer heartache as a relationship already struggling finally comes completely off the rails. Deal with the situation quickly because allowing matters to linger will not help either of you to progress. On a more positive note, your finances will improve and you could find yourself in line for a bonus when it comes to work or an investment.

Card of the Month —The World

advertisersindex librA september 21 – october 21 A rival in romance may deal you a wicked blow this month as a relationship feud continues to rage. However, while your intentions are genuine, the object of your affection may be sending out the wrong signals and causing a two-way tussle that may very well end in tears. The best possible solution will be for the person both you and your rival are chasing to declare their intentions and at least put one of you out of your misery, as well as finally laying your disagreement to rest. Beware an interested party who claims to want to help: things are not all they seem. Harsh words will be spoken on the 10th but luck favours you around the 26th!

Card of the Month — The Hanged Man

scorPio october 22 – November 21 Conflict is brewing but thankfully you are not the one directly involved. Instead, you may start out as an onlooker but soon become an unwilling juror in a battle between two friends. You should be careful to judge the matter with your head and not allow the more flowery and emotional side of your character to determine a decision. Your feet need to be very much on solid ground! Closer to the heart, you may be missing your family and thoughts of a party or general get together will feature prominently on your things to do list. A partner may need you to calm them down around the 9th while a phone call on the 19th could promise a new career opportunity.

Card of the Month — The Seven of Cups

sAGiTTArius November 22 – December 21 If more than a few of you sometimes temperamental Sagittarians have been undergoing a change of abode recently, then February will allow you the scope to wind down and appreciate your new home. Stress often enflames itself more vigorously in the typically combustible fire signs and the calming hand of the Queen of Cups will lend itself to your troubled brow. Try and relax a little more [DASH] soak up the atmosphere of your wonderful life and the people that enrich it. Your fiery nature often means you move ten times as fast as everyone else and so fail to appreciate what’s going on around you! A romantic meal beckons on the 2nd so it could be time to get that suit out of the wardrobe or even treat yourself to something new.

Card of the Month — The Queen of Cups

cAPricorN December 22 — January 18 February could prove to be a very positive and progressive month for your sign with the chance to travel, a change of home and even a new relationship all set to feature on the landscape over the coming weeks. A trip overseas may open new horizons for you and introductions made could lead you to rethink your whole career position at the moment.

Valentine’s Day will inevitably bring relationship matters to the fore and you may even find yourself the object of someone else’s affections, with a card through the post the first step in something quite special. Curly hair and a light grey suit could provide a clue as to who the person may be and an unusual first date beckons on the 21st.

Card of the Month — The Three of Wands

FAMous AquArius THis MoNTH

Fashion & Footwear H&M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Peacocks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Financial Institutions HSBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Mashreq Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Home and Furnishings Phoenicia Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Roche Bobois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 The Home Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133 Yusif bin Yusif Fakhro (Miele) . . . . . . . . .47

Hotels & Luxury Apartments Crowne Plaza Bahrain Hotel . . . . . . . . . .53 Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel . . . . . . . . .60 Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . .107 Novotel Al Dana Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Pars International Hotel. . . . . . . . . . 85,121 Ramada Hotel Bahrain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Ramee Int’l Hotel (Rocky’s Café) . . . . . .120 Ramee Palace Hotel (Dublin). . . . . . . . . .89 Sheraton Bahrain Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Sofitel Zallaq Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 The Dragon Hotel & Resort . . . . . . . . . . .75 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Jewellery & Watches Asia Jewellers (Raymond Weil) . . . . . . . .6 Sharif Group (Festina) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . . .41

Motoring Ahmed Zayani & Sons (Jeep) . . . . . . . . .45

Ajmal Perfumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Al A’ali Shopping Complex . . . . . . . . . . .50 Al Ghalia Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Amwaj Marina Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Au Nom De Rose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Gajria Electronics (JVC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Health & Wellness Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Juffair Fitness Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92 Picture Arabia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139 Robin Sharma Conference . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Shakespeare 4 Kidz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96 Spring of Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Restaurants and Cafés Bushido. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Café Italia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 Casa Mexicana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Fuji Sushi Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Telecommunications Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Lightspeed Communications . . . . . . . . . .65 Mena Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 VIVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Zain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13,35

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

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya

● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets

● Midway Supermarket, all outlets

● Al Jazeera Supermarket, all outlets

● Park Supermarket, Mahooz

● Alosra Supermarket, Saar

● Waitrose Supermarket, Amwai

● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop

● Other leading Cold Stores and

● BooksPlus, all outlets

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.

● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Mega Mart, all outlets

rihanna

Justin Timberlake

Other Advertisers

BTM retail sales outlets

● Jim’s Restaurant

christian bale

Budget Rent A Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 E. K. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Euro Motors (Land Rover) . . . . . . . . . . . BC First Motors (Hyundai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 Kia Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Porsche Centre Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons (Infiniti). . . . . . .39 Zayani Motors (Mitsubishi) . . . . . . . . . . .87

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955.

BTM February 2012 143

lastword Searching for the ‘Right One’

Highway to Nowhere JAMES CLAIRE There is nothing more beautiful, no event more joyous than the birth of a child. But, has our luck ended as we hit number seven?

144 February 2012 BTM

It is said that there are three stages to true love; lust, attraction and bonding. Lust is the immediate reaction of desire; attraction individualises this to a person and bonding is the permanent force keeping two people together, out of a mutual desire of togetherness and enjoyment for one another’s company.

At 40, I have been searching for Mrs. Right for about 24 years — okay 26 years, just don’t do the math. I was an early starter. In my search I prayed that when I found her, I would find a woman who thought I, too, was her Mr. Right.

What if, in my search for all these years, I have missed it though, that Mrs. Right was in fact always ‘Mrs. Right Under my Nose’.

What if I have been with and lost Mrs. Right among my plethora of partners. Was I given a brain incapable of noticing and thus I have missed my soul mate? Has my love of my career driven me to insanity?

Or was I chosen to be single?

For a reason not yet clear to me, many famous people have grown old alone! Does this make them any less a person?

Does this mean they have not found or felt love throughout their lifetime?

Does feeling love, mean we must remain with one person for eternity? Or does feeling love make us richer as long as we have at least felt it once in our lifetime?

Is marriage everything it is supposed to be? Does a piece of paper make you more ‘in love’?

If that’s the case, why do married people still cheat, fight and divorce? Why do married people look at ageing singles as the loser in life’s odd game of chance?

What if the real point of this game of life is to duck and weave your way around the obstacles only to end up at heaven’s gate as single, as the day we were born? What if the only ones allowed through the pearly gates are those who never married, suffering life by themselves?

I hope God congratulates me upon my arrival and gives me a hug and tells me, “Well done my son, you have suffered long

enough; now come inside and feel all the love we have to offer, no one inside is married — eternity is happy hour!”

As I have stated many times, my life has been one of a continually travelled nomad. I chose a great career which transcends all boundaries of language and was lucky to be born in a country where visas have been as easy to achieve as arriving at any foreign country’s doorstep.

It is not like I have never found love and, yes, I do have my regrets. But I can’t help but believe that to love someone, even for a short time, is to show yourself an inner foresight; a clue along the road to life that lovers are like tour guides, to direct us, and not to live with and get bored with the journey.

There was of course ‘one’, an old Canadian girlfriend who was perhaps ‘THE ONE’.

Half Egyptian, half German, I loved both halves.

Unfortunately she was a free spirit and I lost that spirit to the wind after asking her to marry me. She is the only girl I have actually asked the direct question on hand and knee, probably the only one I ever will.

I remember, she laughed, kissed me passionately and was gone. “’Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all,” are the famed words of Alfred Lord Tennyson.

But is it not true that to be touched by an angel once, offers insight to one’s life, that otherwise we may search endlessly for? Sure I would give my left leg for her to return and marry me, but is a zebra still a zebra if we remove the stripes?

I would never have loved her had she not been such a free spirit and to tie her down to a commitment such as marriage would be removing those stripes. And I have no interest in funny-looking ponies.

For now, I’ll just continue walking down the road I seem to be on, enjoying life’s tour guides along the way. Perhaps my life is like the great quote from Star Trek, “maybe it’s not about the destination that matters, maybe it’s the journey”.

Getting nowhere in life has never been so much fun.