Bahrain This Month - February 2016

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YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Garden Show Turning over a new leaf for 2016

It must be

Special Report Telecoms in the Kingdom

Love: Romantic Dining Love: Valentine’s Gift Guide Love: Special Entertainment

Interview Philippine ambassador on bilateral relations

February 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 2

Arts

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

Nightlife

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Issue 222

Contents February 2016 HAPPENINGS

Bahrain This Month previews events happening around town during the month of February 2016.

20 In

Memory of Sudan:

A solo exhibition of the latest works of one of the Arab World’s leading contemporary artists, Mohammad Omer Khalil.

22

20

Local Art on Display:

Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition is now in its 42nd edition and will continue to run until March.

24

Fundraising for Socotra:

Charity Event for the People of Socotra and their World Heritage Site.

28 Fado

in Focus:

Fado Music Concert at Bahrain National Theatre.

34 Everything Food:

The Bahrain Food Festival takes you on a journey of the island’s best hospitality outlets.

After Dark:

24

28

36

Reggae Legends:

Celebrating the birthday and legacy of the late singer Bob Marley.

37

Party Central:

Thanks to a winning combination of fantastic food, a chilled ambience and great entertainment, this afterhours venue is a hit with customers across the Kingdom.

INTERVIEWS

Philippines on the Map:

40

36

40

Philippine Ambassador Alfonso A Ver talks to BTM about his impressions of Bahrain and what he hopes to achieve during his time in the Kingdom.

Making a Difference through Fellowship:

42

The Rotary Club of Manama is hosting its annual ‘Kick For A Cause’ six-a-side football tournament to raise funds for charity.

43

Model United Learning:

Bryan Wilkinson talks Model United Nations.

43

45 Bystander This month our photographers have been busy at The fourth edition of the Bahrain International Airshow. The UK and Bahrain celebrated the bicentenary of diplomatic relations and Dragon City was inaugurated. We also turned out for the opening of the new Lulu Hypermarket in Juffair and attended the Rotary Club’s 50th anniversary celebration.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

44

Frank’s New Domain:

45

A Transcendent New Page-turner:

Frank Normann Eikeland takes the helm.

Bahrain author Ali Shams talks about his latest book.

46

A New Reason to Smile:

The Kingdom’s newest cosmetic dental centre is offering patients a range of services in a chic environment.

FEATURES 49

Man Cave:

BTM features the latest appliances, gaming and entertainment systems available for the man of the house.

February 2016 5

2015 Bahrain's Leading Serviced Apartments

Issue 222

Contents February 2016 Telecom Feature: 53-56 It’s

Good to Talk:

We look at the latest trends, devices and services the telecom sector has to offer.

53

LIFESTYLE New Motors:

57

SUV with the Power to Surprise!:

This luxury crossover is proof that, sometimes, you can have your cake and eat it too.

60

An Exhilarating Luxury Sports Sedan:

Track-honed performance and aggressive styling meets the latest technology in this new model.

68

Cutting-edge Technology:

This new model is a sleek fusion of bold style, passionate performance and advanced technology.

Downtime:

Gadgets: The Newest gizmos on the market.

76 Music: Top Tunes.

77 Computer Games: The hot games of the month.

78 Websites: The coolest sites on the web.

79 Apps: Sophisticated new apps.

80 Movies: Star Wars 75

57

82

Valentine’s Feature: 82-83

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas:

Find the perfect gift for your beloved.

84-103

Romance on the Menu:

From five-star extravagance to charming boutiques and casual diners, Bahrain This Month has put together a list of some of the best venues for a romantic meal.

Dining:

105

84

105

Masala Magic:

The face of modern Indian gastronomy around the world, Sanjeev Kapoor shares his culinary treasure at this popular restaurant.

108

Authentic Asian:

Thanks to its expansive array of Asian fare and relaxing ambience, this restaurant is a firm favourite with diners across the Kingdom.

112

Grub Street:

From food festivals to new menus and chefs, there’s much to look forward to in the culinary district this month.

117

75

Showcase:

New: Must-have products.

Marketplace: Latest products and services.

132 Business Bites: News from the world of business.

117 What’s

118-131

Regulars:

WIN WIN Tarotscope 135 AD Index 136 Last Word 133

134

80

www.bahrainthismonth.com

117

February 2016 7

THE TEAM

Bahrain This Month February 2016

Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Email: george@bahrainthismonth.com Editorial Director Liz O’Reilly Marketing & Electronic Media Director Deepa Siva Editor Charlie Holding Commercial Editor Apple Sharma Assistant Editor Ankita Mamgain Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Romeo San Miguel

Photography Editor Zilia Monteiro Staff Photographers Subeesh Kumar N S, Ranjith Mohan

The only Lifestyle Magazine distributed with the GDN

Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa, Tara Vamadeven Pillai, Kadambari S Personnel Manager Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Media Sales Marise Prata Dos Santos, Randa Ghazi Howais Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Corporation Photography Picture Arabia: andrew@picturearabia.com Printing Press Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej W.L.L., Bahrain

Published monthly by

RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: info@redhousemarketing.com www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2014 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

•

COVER Cover Picture:

The Valentine’s issue.

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

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Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Garden Show Turning over a new leaf for 2016

It must be

Special Report Telecoms in the Kingdom

Love: Romantic Dining Love: Valentine’s Gift Guide Love: Special Entertainment

Interview Philippine ambassador on bilateral relations

February 2016 ~ Vol. 20 ~ Issue 2

Arts

www.bahrainthismonth.com

George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman

YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24

Bahrain This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

As one would expect for this time of the year, Bahrain is gearing up for a multitude of diverse, exciting and romantic events this February. From live music performances to the Al Basta Market and the Gulf Industry Fair 2016, there’s plenty to see and do on this beautiful island.

On our cover we celebrate the latest edition of the Bahrain International Garden Show which, for many, is the highlight of the horticultural year. And it’s not just the garden show that’s in bloom this month. February is also considered by many to be the month to celebrate love and affection.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we’ve compiled an essential guide of places you can go to enjoy a romantic meal as well as a gift guide to help you find the perfect present for your beloved.

If you’re not into the Valentine’s scene, fear not, our dining section includes a number of venues that cater to other tastes.

This month, our interview section is packed with exclusives and includes Philippine Ambassador Alfonso A Ver, who talks to BTM about his impressions of Bahrain and what he hopes to achieve during his time in the Kingdom.

BTM also caught up with Bahraini author Ali Shams to discuss his newest book and his inspiration for writing it.

The Rotary Club of Manama is hosting its annual ‘Kick For A Cause’ six-a-side football tournament to raise funds for charity and we caught up with organising committee chairman Fareed Bader to find out more about this year’s worthy cause.

Meanwhile, our annual telecom review gives you an essential overview of the Kingdom’s telecom market, its biggest players and, of course, the latest devices and technological trends to watch out for in 2016.

Our dedicated motoring section is replete with information on the newest models, special offers from leading automotive companies and, of course, we put a number of mean machines to the test.

Whatever you decide to do this month, be sure to appreciate the great way of life and love the Kingdom has to offer.

Culture

Clubs

Sports

Interviews

Lifestyle

Dining

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Nightlife

February 2016 9

bystander

His Majesty King Hamad inspects a Bahrain aircraft

Bahrain International Airshow 2016 The fourth edition of the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) 2016 opened in Sakhir under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and was inaugurated by His Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty and chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of BIAS, in the presence of top government officials and senior aviation executives from MENA, Europe, the US and Asia.

Parachuters carrying the Bahrain flag

Yousif Mohammed Mahmoud, Head of Bahrain International Airshow Group Ministry of Transportation & Telecommunications

The Prime Minister arrives at the show

Hussain Al Shuail, HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador & Amanda Stainer at the Bahrain-UK heritage display

John, Mohammed bin Hindi, Santhosh & Khalid bin Hindi

Nasser, Ibrahim, Sohail, HE Muhammed Saeed Khan & Ahsen

Fatema, Aysha & Lulwa

Payne & Cuthbert

10 February 2015

Amal & Maryam

Marina, Alia & Omar

Jonathan, David & Joseph

John, James & Mazen

Shaikh Abdulla

Yousif & Al Hanoof

Karuna, Monali, Beautta & Deepna

Khalid Al Zayani & Abdulla

Mojda, Nasreen & Gerd

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bystander

Akbar Al Baker, right, greets HE Kamal Bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications.

Qatar Airways Celebrates Qatar Airways celebrated its one-year anniversary of A350 operations by hosting royal guests, media and trade partners at its chalet at the Bahrain International Airshow. The airline also displayed the A380 super jumbo and the Gulfstream G650ER, the latest addition to the Qatar Executive fleet.

Abdullah Nasser Turki Al Subaey, chairman, Qatar Aircraft Catering Company, HE Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, Qatar Ambassador, Fabrice Brégier, president of Airbus, HE Jassim Al Sulaiti, Qatar Minister of Transportation, Akbar Al Baker CEO, Qatar Airways Group, HE Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of the General Civil Aviation Authority of UAE and HE Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad Al Thani, Director General of Qatar Aeronautical College.

HE Kiyoshi Asako, HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan, Iftar & Zaina

Gulf Air at BIAS

Jobin & Karthick

Dignitaries seated inside Qatar Executive’s new Gulfstream G650ER

Noora & Ali

Sahar & Kyriako

Qatar Airways pilots at the show

Azza & Talal

Bahrain This Month visited some friendly faces at Gulf Air’s lounge at the Bahrain International Airshow.

George, Maher Al Musallam & Mohammed

Mohammed, Ahmed & Nasser

12 February 2015

Samia

Eman, Galina, Capt Fahad, Eva & Mirna

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bystander

Bicentenary Celebrations

The Crown Prince

HE Simon Martin

Poshaw, Mitchell & Lt Normington

HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador, hosted a reception and ceremonial sunset parade on board the HMS Defender, at Mina Salman Port, to mark the launch of the 2016 Bicentenary celebrations of Bahrain-UK relations.

The event was attended by HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister.

HE Simon Martin greets the Crown Prince as he arrives for the reception.

HE Dr Ahmed Nayif, Khalid Almoayed & Nasser Al Arrayed

Juzer & Abdulrahman Rashid

HE Chilman Arisman, Abdulla Juma, Jalil Al Ansari & Mohammed Salahuddin

HE Abdulla Saleh & HE Kadri Al Sayeh

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran & HE Simon Martin

Nabeel Ajoor & Paul

Will & Brig Gen Khalifa bin Abdullah Khalifa

HE William Roebuck

HE Alberto Vecchi & Stephen

Salman Al Khalifa

HE Najeeb Al Hamer, Amal Almoayyed & Mazen Alumran

Taher & Mahmood

Abdulwahab Al Hawaj, HE Simon Martin & Jawad Al Hawaj

Brig Gen Khalifa & Cdr Stephen

HE Kiyoshi Asako

Commander Stephen Higham, Shaikh Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Mockbul Ali & HE Bernard RĂŠgnauld-Fabre

Heather & Andy

14 February 2015

Igor & Park

Pat, Sophie, Debbie, Mohammed, Dominic, George & Anne

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bystander

Dragon City Opens Diyar Al Muharraq’s landmark project Dragon City was officially launched under the patronage of His Royal Highness The Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

The Premier was welcomed by Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, Diyar Al Muharraq’s chairman, board members and senior officials. Also present on the occasion were honourable ministers, VIPs and government officials, a high level Chinese business delegation, members of the diplomatic corps and top management of Kuwait Finance House.

The Premier visits a store

His Royal Highness The Prime Minister and dignitaries at the opening ceremony

Otto, David & Nigel

HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan & Yousif

Traditional entertainment at the opening

Ahmed, Rama, Mathilde & Zoe

Marassi Launch Eagle Hills and Diyar Al Muharraq hosted the inauguration ceremony of Marassi Al Bahrain in the presence of His Royal Highness, The Crown Prince, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The first residential towers, Marassi Residences was also launched, with a presenation from Dr Maher Al Shaher, CEO, Diyar Al Muharraq and managing director of Marassi Al Bahrain.

HRH The Crown Prince is given a tour of the project

Mohammed Al Abbar, Low Ping & Dr Maher Al Shaher

16 February 2016

Ramla & Darioush

Susan, Firas & Karan

Mishey & Ali

Low Ping, Osama & Haitham

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bystander

Juzer & George

Lulu Hypermarket Opens The fifth store of Lulu Hypermarket in Bahrain was inaugurated by HE Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, at the new Juffair Mall. HE Shaikh Khalifa bin Daij Al Khalifa, President of the Crown Prince’s Court, HE Shaikh Ahmed Khalifa Al Khalifa, Crown Prince’s Court, HE Jameel Humaidan, Labour Minister, HE Zayed Alzayani, Industry & Commerce Minister, M.A Yousif Ali, managing director of EMKE Lulu Group, Lulu’s management and staff, ambassadors, businessmen, invited guests and members of the press attended the event.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony

Kaleem & Hemant

Ashraf Ali & Mohammed Altaf

Vineeth, Praveen & Jabran

John & Kevin

Vergel & Johna

Mockbul, Sophie, HE Simon Martin & Nasser

Sathar & Basit

Bhagwan, Qutub & Hatim

Kunal & Hishang

Ali & Waleed

Sivaraj, Hashim & Razak

Arul & Matthew

Mujeeb & Najeeb Dean, Lorna & Ahmed

Santhosh & Rajeev

18 February 2015

Ravi & Shyam

Cliff & Lorenzo

Hardeep & Mohammed

Ziyad

Hussain & Mohammed

Rasha & Rachel

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FEBRUARY 2016. HAPPENINGS IN MEMORY OF SUDAN When? Ongoing – February 4 Event? Art Exhibition: Suakin Venue? Albareh Art Gallery A solo exhibition of the latest works of one of the Arab World’s leading contemporary artists, Mohammad Omer Khalil, is on display at the Albareh Art Gallery. The ongoing exhibition, titled Suakin, will continue until February 4.

Mohammad is known equally for his masterful black and white prints as well as his large, colourful mixed-media paintings and it is a collection of the latter that comprise Suakin.

Having lived in a number of different cities across the world, he maintains deep emotional bonds with all the places he has called ‘home’ over the years, which manifest in his paintings.

In this exhibition, Mohammad pays tribute to his

memory of Suakin, an ancient port city in northeastern Sudan. Today, the old city is in ruins but the remnants of the coral buildings hint at a past opulence that goes back to pharaonic times.

Mohammad was born in Khartoum, Sudan, and has lived and worked in New York City since 1967. He studied at the School of Fine and Applied Art in Khartoum and then pursued

graduate studies in fresco painting and printmaking in Florence, Italy. His work has been exhibited in Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America and is collected worldwide by various galleries, museums and institutes.

He is also the recipient of numerous awards and grants.

Call 17 717-707 or visit www.albareh.com.

IMMORTALITY IN ART Bahraini artist Abdulrahim Sharif’s recent works are being displayed at the Art Centre in an exhibition that will continue until February 10.

Abdulrahim is a renowned local artist whose career spans nearly 50 years. His research on the subject of immortality in art drew him to three important elements of creation: behaviour, pulse and entity. The combination of these elements became the soul of his paintings in multiple layers of voice and gesture; of energies, thoughts and emotions that lie behind the physical nature of things.

He believes that immortality in art is achieved when both physical and mental energy unite in the process of creation, which brings him to the conclusion: it is not what we paint but how we paint.

The exhibition runs daily from 9am-8pm and from 4.30pm-8pm on Fridays.

Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh.

When? Ongoing – February 10 Event? Art Exhibition: Abdulrahim Sharif 101 Venue? Art Centre

POPULAR MARKET RETURNS When? Ongoing – February 13 Event? Al Basta Market Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) One of the biggest annual shopping festivals in Bahrain, Al Basta Market, organised by the Southern Governorate, is being held at the BIC on a weekly basis on Friday and Saturday.

The market aims to offer local and homemade products; facilitate the communication among producers, consumers and society; educate consumers about the sustainability of recycled products and the real cost of imported goods; and provide a platform for the sale of recycled or environmentally-friendly organic products.

Al Basta market is supported by Tamkeen, the 20 February 2016

National Initiative for Agricultural Development, BIC, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the Southern Municipality, Bahrain National Gas Company, Bahrain Petroleum Company, Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company and Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel among others.

The market opens from 3pm-9pm, with free entrance for all.

Call 17 750-590, 17 750-581, hotline 35 096-213 or follow Instagram and Twitter @albasta_market www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

LOCAL ART ON DISPLAY When? Ongoing – March 20 Event? Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition 42 Venue? Bahrain National Museum The ever popular Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition is now in its 42nd edition and will continue to be on show until March 20 at the Bahrain National Museum. Held under the patronage of the Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa since 1972 the exhibition’s philosophy is free of any particular title or artistic direction. Artists’ contributions every year have been encouraged to be as spontaneous and uninhibited as possible in order to allow for a wideranging artistic and cultural debate,

unconfined by any formal restrictions or boundaries.

It has now evolved into a popular yearly gathering of artists, from all over the country, all eager to show off their talents and the work completed so far in their careers.

Every year, the exhibition acts as an innovative form for debate in which the different artistic monologues have an exclusive opportunity to communicate according to the forms chosen, from calligraphy to surrealism, abstract and modernist representations to more traditional cultural expressions.

A specialised jury committee selects the finest works both in terms of maturity and originality. The artists involved have always used a

When? Ongoing Event? Bahrain Unlocked – Digital Photography Exhibition Venue? Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre E Call 17 171-107.

number of different mediums from photographs to found objects, charcoal and pencil to digital manipulation, to exploring collage and montage techniques used by renowned artists through the centuries. The results equate to their own interpretation of sense and feelings.

The exhibition opens from 8am-8pm.

Call 80 008-089, visit www. facebook.com/culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @culturebah.

HISTORICAL COSTUMES ON DISPLAY When? Ongoing – April 15 Event? Exhibition: Magnificent Maharajah Splendour of Indian Royal Costumes Venue? Bahrain National Museum An enchanting display of extraordinary costumes is on show at the Bahrain National Museum. The exhibition, Magnificent Maharajah Splendour of Indian Royal Costumes, features a compilation of historic royal costumes from the private

REV YOUR ENGINES When? Throughout February Event? Motoring Events Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) The Kingdom’s favourite haunt for petrol heads is looking busy as BIC hosts a string of events this month.

Apart from the popular favourites such as Ebrahim K Kanoo Drag and Drift Night (February 1, 15 and 29), Night Open Track (February 4, 5) and the Open Track Day (February 27), BIC has an additional great line-up of activities.

Enjoy double the action in the latest edition of the Bahrain Karting 22 February 2016

When? Ongoing – February 4 Event? Autumn Fair 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) E Call 17 550-033 or visit www.theautumnfair.com.

When? Ongoing – February 4 Event? Art Exhibition: Suakin Venue? Albareh Art Gallery E Call 17 717-707 or visit www.albareh.com.

When? Ongoing – February 10 Event? Art Exhibition: Abdulrahim Sharif 101 Venue? Art Centre E Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh.

collection of Deepak and Daksha Hutheesing. In a bid to ensure the continuation of a rich textile heritage, revival pieces made using millenniaold techniques by Umang Hutheesing are also being showcased alongside the exhibit.

The costumes will be on display until April 15 and the museum opening timings are from 8am-8pm, with free entry.

Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh.

Sprint Championship on February 5 at the Bahrain International Karting Circuit. It comprises both the Bahrain Rotax Mojo Max Challenge and the Sodi SWS Sprint Championship.

The BIC 2,000cc Challenge is the premier gentleman drivers’ championship in the Kingdom, holding the fifth round of its season on February 12.

On February 15, the Bahrain Autocross Championship will be open to motor racing enthusiasts of all skill levels and experience. They can bring their own road cars and take on a pre-determined course set along BIC’s car parks. Timed runs

When? Ongoing – Throughout the Year Event? Water Sports Activities Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa E Call the Sports Club on 17 586-612 or email rc.bahrz. events@ritzcarlton.com.

When? Ongoing – February 13 Event? Al Basta Market Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) E Call 17 750-590, 17 750-581, hotline 35 096-213 or follow Instagram and Twitter @ albasta_market.

When? Ongoing – March 15 Event? Art Exhibition - KKF’s Fountain of Youth Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123 or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

will determine the day’s winners.

Gulfrun, an annual event will be held on February 18. The two-day event will see participants bring in all kinds of cars.

The Bahrain Drag Racing Championship 2015/2016 returns for Round 4 from February 23-26.Back-toback evenings of Test and Tune take place on February 23 and 24, qualifying follows on February 25, leading up to race day on February 26.

Call 17 450-000.

When? Ongoing – March 20 Event? Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition 42 Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 80 008-089, visit www.facebook.com/ culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @ culturebah.

When? Ongoing – April 15 Event? Exhibition: Magnificent Maharajah Splendour of Indian Royal Costumes Venue? Bahrain National Museum E Call 80 008-089 or visit www.culture.gov.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

FUNDRAISING FOR SOCOTRA When? February 3 Event? Charity Event for the People of Socotra and their World Heritage Site Venue? The Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARCWH) A fantastic charity event will be held on the island this month to raise funds for the people of the Yemeni island of Socotra, which is a Natural World Heritage Site.

Organised by the ARCWH (under the auspices of UNESCO), the event will be held on February 3 under the patronage of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany and with the support of Alliance Française.

The programme includes an oud concert featuring Saad Mahmood Jawad as well as an exhibition of photos and sale of posters of Socotra.

Socotra Island lies in the Indian Ocean, some 230 miles (368 kilometres) off the coast of Yemen’s mainland. Recognised for its unique

vegetation and ecosystems, including rare dragon blood trees, it is considered a jewel of biodiversity. Thirty per cent of plants in Socotra are endemic and are not found anywhere else on earth. The Socotra archipelago has been a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site since 2008.

On November 1, 2015, a rare and violent cyclone killed several people and injured many others on this remote Yemeni island. A week later, another strong cyclone struck causing a huge loss of property on the island.

The cyclones seriously damaged or destroyed houses, trees were uprooted and almost all the fishing boats and dhows were ruined. Farms and livestock have also been severely affected. To this day, many people are still living in the streets or in caves.

ARCWH has decided to support the

When? Throughout February Event? Motoring Events Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) E Call the BIC hotline 17 450-000 or visit www.bahraingp.com.

When? February 3 Event? Charity Event for the People of Socotra and their World Heritage Site Venue? The Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARCWH) E Call Pascal on 17 003-218.

people of Socotra to rebuild their homes, help buy or repair fishing boats and equipment as well as to repair damaged infrastructure and schools.

The centre is coordinating directly with the people of Socotra to ensure the funds are well managed.

The event will start at 6pm and tickets are on sale at the entrance of ARCWH, located between Bahrain National Museum and the Art Centre.

Tickets are priced at BD20 and BD50 with a special donation.

Call Pascal on 17 003-218.

When? February 3 Event? Quiz Night Venue? The Dilmun Club Test your general knowledge and have a fun evening out with family and friends with The Dilmun Club’s Quiz Night on February 3. The event will be hosted by Andy Dove, the winner of last month’s quiz.

Entry is open to all, with maximum team size of six people. The quiz will feature multiple categories over several rounds, so any team can win a round. The overall winner will get to host the next quiz night!

Prizes on the night include drinks provided by the sponsors.

The quiz starts from 8pm in Bulls Head Bar. Call 17 690-926, 17 692-986 or visit www.dilmun-club.com.

BRING ON THE FUNNIES

Enjoy a crazy, funny and laughterfilled comedy night as three local stand-up comedians take to the stage on February 4 at the Amwaj Marina tent. The Comedy Connect, organised by Night-Pro BH and Amwaj Marina, will feature Bahraini 24 February 2016

When? February 4 Event? The Comedy Connect Venue? Amwaj Marina E Call 33 282-727.

When? February 4 and 6 Event? Jewellery and Mosaic Workshops Venue? The Art House E Call 39 253-943.

When? February 5 Event? Pilates Workshop Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

QUESTION TIME

When? February 4 Event? The Comedy Connect Venue? Amwaj Marina

When? February 3 Event? Quiz Night Venue? The Dilmun Club E Call 17 690-926, 17 692-986 or visit www.dilmun-club.com.

talents Rick Sharif, Ali Fingerz (pictured) and Yousif Taha.

Doors open at 8pm and show starts at 9pm.

Tickets are priced at BD10, inclusive of one selected drink.

Due to limited seating capacity, it is advisable to purchase tickets at the earliest to avoid disappointment.

Call 33 282-727.

When? February 6 Event? Amwaj Marina Market Venue? Amwaj Marina, Amwaj Islands Enjoy a fun-filled family day with shopping and kids’ entertainment.

E Follow Facebook page Amwaj Islands, Instagram @amwaj_islands and Twitter @amwajislands When? February 7 Event? Lecture (Part of Food is Culture event) Venue? Bahrain National Museum The second part of the ongoing Food is Culture event will feature a lecture by Hesa Humood Al Khalifa, at 7pm.

E Visit www.culture.gov.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

WORKSHOPS GALORE When? February 4 and 6 Event? Jewellery and Mosaic Workshops Venue? The Art House There are plenty of interesting workshops being held at The Art House to keep you busy this month.

The first is a jewellery workshop, which will be held on February 4, from 10am to midday, where you will learn how to make a rose quartz and natural pearl necklace with earrings.

It costs BD25 and is inclusive of all material and beverages.

The second is the mosaic workshop,

which will take place on February 6, from 10am to 5pm. Mosaic is described as painting with pieces and is a wonderful, accessible art form, great for artists and nonartists alike. You will be introduced to a huge variety of materials – bold, matt, shiny, iridescent and downright unusual – that you can combine to make stunning mosaics. This workshop has been themed for Valentine’s Day where you can choose your own design in advance,

the materials for which will be ready and waiting for you on the day. Not only will you be able to learn the art of mosaic, but also cutting techniques, gluing, grouting and polishing. It costs BD25 per person and is inclusive of all material as well as a scrumptious lunch.

Call 39 253-943.

GET FIT GRACEFULLY When? February 5

Event? Pilates Workshop

Get your fitness levels up without the strains of a laborious workout with a Pilates workshop, to be held at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art

on February 5, from 10am to 4pm.

The sessions will be conducted by Julia Vladokina who is trained on the classical method of Romana’s Pilates with a background in ballet and contemporary dance. This particular form of exercise is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace and skill that will be unmistakably reflected in the way you walk, play and work. You will develop muscular power with corresponding

endurance, ability to perform arduous duties, to play strenuous games, to walk, run or travel for long distances without undue body fatigue or mental strain.

The workshop is priced at BD38 with vegetarian lunch. A half day without lunch from 10am to midday is priced at BD20.

Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

FOCUS ON INDUSTRIAL INNOVATION When? February 9-11 Event? Gulf Industry Fair 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) Leading international industrial companies will come together to take part in the Gulf Industry Fair 2016 (GIF), which will be held from Febraury 9-11 at the BIECC. The event, organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions, is strategically sponsored

by Alba and Bapco and the National Oil and Gas Authority of Bahrain.

Apart from international participation, GIF will also have a lineup of programmes dedicated to promoting innovation in the industrial sector with the firm support of Majaal (for industrial facilities), AMA (for 26 February 2016

manufacturing) and Asry (for maritime industries). Visitors and exhibitors will get a chance to experience the innovative industrial developments in various fields including aluminium, energy and environmental protection, industrial metals, industrial processes and manufacturing, logistics and industrial facilities, industrial security and safety as well as training for industry sectors.

On February 10, the show will host the Innovation for Industry Forum supported by the Minister of Industry and Commerce and Tourism HE Zayed R Alzayani, covering topics on engines for industrial growth and products for industry. It will include the iTech Awards presentation.

There will also be a two-day training programme – The Innovation and

When? February 8 Event? Bahrain Writers Circle Monthly Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Get together for a literary evening and meet like-minded people, monthly meetings at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? February 9-11 Event? Gulf Industry Fair 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) E Call 17 299-123 or email info@hilalce.com.

When? 9-29 Event? Art Exhibition: Requiem Venue? Albareh Art Gallery A solo exhibition of the latest works of award-winning Lebanese artist Annie Kurkdjian.

E Call 17 717-707.

When? February 10 Event? Bahrain Writers Poetry Circle Meeting Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Enjoy an evening discussing poetry with fellow enthusiasts at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795.

When? February 11 Event? Fado Music Concert Venue? Bahrain National Theatre E Call 80 008-089, visit www.facebook.com/ culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @ culturebah.

When? February 12 Event? Bahrain National Superbike Championship Venue? Bahrain International Circuit E Visit www.bahrainsuperbike. com or follow BSBK’s Instagram and Facebook account.

Lateral Thinking for Leaders Masterclass by Adi Breuer.

The fair will stage a Career Day programme to aid students and unemployed individuals who hope to seek professions in the industry.

Additionally, the programme will include Gulf Connexions guiding attendees with CV presentation.

The expo is free of charge and open to the public while delegates for the Innovation for Industry Forum and the Adi Breuer Masterclass will be charged.

The timings are from 9am to 7pm.

Call 17 299-123 or email info@hilalce.com.

When? February 12 Event? Brazilian Carnival: Bloco 338 Venue? Amwaj Marina E Call 39 262-222.

When? February 13 Event? Young Adult Book Club Venue? Words Bookstore Cafe E Call 17 690-790.

When? February 15 Event? Bahrain Writers Creative Workshop Venue? Umami Restaurant, Adliya Hone your creative writing skills with this interesting workshop at 7.30pm.

E Call 39 574-795. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre April 19th - 21st 2016

www.healthexpo.bh

happenings

FADO IN FOCUS When? February 11 Event? Fado Music Concert Venue? Bahrain National Theatre The shores of Bahrain will be graced by the Queen of Fado, Mariza, for one night only on February 11 at the Bahrain National Theatre.

Just like the blues from the USA, flamenco from Spain and the tango from Argentina, Fado, the unique traditional music from Portugal, is a gift to all music lovers worldwide. So much so, that it has been designated as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage. Blessed with a soulful voice, Portuguese singer Mariza is one of the genre’s foremost ambassadors. The Kingdom will bear witness to the stunning vocal talents she uses to embody the spirit of the genre, which can be encapsulated in four simple words: passionate, elegant, sensitive and

melancholic. Known as “The Voice of Fado”, her talent has garnered widespread critical acclaim as one of the most important singers in modern world music. She has won multiple prestigious international awards and also became the first Portuguese singer nominated and awarded at the Grammys.

The show starts at 8pm and tickets are sold at Virgin Megastore.

Call 80 008-089, visit www.facebook.com/culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @culturebah.

BIKERS UNITE When? February 12 Event? Bahrain National Superbike Championship Venue? Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) A unique event and a first for the region, the Bahrain National Superbike Championship (BSBK) kicked off the season with its first round last month. The second round is due to be held on February 12 at the BIC. The event consists of 12 races over six months, in which 15 riders battle it out for the Bahrain Superbike Champion title. The competition is set up in an ‘arrive and ride’ format where contestants lease the bike (a Ducati 899 Panigale) for the season, enabling them to focus on improving their racing skills and not have to worry about parts, maintenance and tyres.

All races will be held in the inner circuit at BIC which offers a fantastic vantage point for the audience. This will also give the crowd unprecedented access to the pit

garages and the contestants, providing a family oriented event for supporters.

The BSBK is the first organised superbike championship in the Kingdom with the collaboration of motorcycle organisations and enthusiasts.

The event is supported by the Bahrain International Circuit and the Bahrain Motor Federation (BMF) The calendar is set for the following races: Round 3 March 4, Round 4 - April 22, Round 5 - May 6, Round 6 - TBC. Visit www.bahrainsuperbike.com or follow BSBK’s Instagram and Facebook account.

A TASTE OF BRAZIL When? February 12 Event? Brazilian Carnival: Bloco 338 Venue? Amwaj Marina It’s time to dig out your best costume and get ready to party Brazilian style, as the Carnaval Bloco 338 returns to the island. Now in its third edition, the festival’s theme this year is the sea and it will be aptly held at the Amwaj Marina on February 12.

“Bloco de Carnaval” is a generic term to define street carnival parties in Brazil. Music heard on the street ranges from marchinhas de carnaval to samba, frevo, axé and other genres. People dress up in costumes known as fantasias or simply wear masks and wigs.

So get your costumes ready for another unforgettable day 28 February 2016

party, where you can enjoy the sounds and flavours of Brazil through music, food, drinks and special activities for the children.

The event takes place from midday-4.30pm. Tickets are priced at BD20 for adults, BD10 for children between six and 12 years and free for children under six.

Tickets include a buffet lunch, unlimited selected beverages and two special cocktails, and can be purchased from Amwaj Marina.

No tickets will be sold at the door.

Call 39 262-222.

When? February 16-17 Event? Junior World Entrepreneurship Forum Bahrain Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa / Applied Science University E Call 17 552-878, email registration@origin.com.bh or follow Instagram and Twitter @JWEF_BH. When? February 18 Event? BSPCA Murder Mystery Dinner Venue? The British Club E Call 39 609-714.

When? February 21 Event? Movie Night: The Dream Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art E Call 17 230-123, email info@ lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

When? February 21 Event? Pre-show Students Class Judging Venue? Bahrain Garden Club, Juffair The club will be judging schoolchildren’s entries for the Bahrain International Garden Show, at midday.

E Call 17 727-625 or visit www.bahraingardenclub.com for more information.

When? February 23-24 Event? Fifth Euromoney GCC Financial Forum Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay E Visit www. euromoneyconferences.com/ bahrain.html.

When? February 25 Event? Caracalla Dance Theatre: Kan Ya Ma Kan Venue? Bahrain National Theatre E Call 80 008-089, visit www.facebook.com/ culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @ culturebah.

When? February 25 Event? Bahrain International Garden Show 2016 Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) E Call 17 417-008, email info@bigs.com.bh or visit www.bigs.com.bh.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

happenings

READING DELIGHT FOR TEENS When? February 13 Event? Young Adult Book Club Venue? Words Bookstore Cafe A reading bug starts with a good book. The Words Bookstore Café aims to do just that as it launches its first Young Adult Book Club of 2016 on February 13. The pick of the month is the multiple awardwinning, phenomenal bestseller from Mark Haddon, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.

A murder mystery novel like no other, it follows detective and narrator Christopher Boone, who is 15 and has Asperger’s Syndrome. He knows a great deal about maths but very little about human beings. He loves lists, patterns and the truth. He

hates the colours yellow and brown and being touched. He has never gone further than the end of the road on his own but when he finds a neighbour’s dog murdered, he sets out on a terrifying journey which will turn his whole world upside down.

The book club is open to all teens, free of charge and starts at midday.

To join, email info@wordsbookstorecafe.com with your name and mobile number.

Call 17 690-790.

PROMOTING ENTREPRENEURSHIP When? February 16-17 Event? Junior World Entrepreneurship Forum Bahrain Venue? The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa / Applied Science University A fantastic opportunity for youth comes in the form of the Junior World Entrepreneurship Forum (JWEF), which will take place at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa on February 16 and at the Applied Science University on January 17. Held under the patronage of HE Zayed R Alzayani, Minister of Industry, Commerce & Tourism, the event is being organised by Origin Group in Bahrain and the GCC for the first time.

Founded in France, the JWEF is a derivative event of the World Entrepreneurship Forum. It was created in order to promote and accelerate junior entrepreneurship globally.

The goal is to educate youth and promote private

enterprise as a career opportunity in Bahrain.

The two-day event will see local entrepreneurs, industry experts, government officials and academics sharing their experiences. Participants will be exposed to inspiring speakers, will get an opportunity to learn and interact in creative workshops and have the chance to pitch their innovative commercial ideas to a qualified jury.

Call 17 552-878, email registration@origin.com.bh or follow Instagram and Twitter @JWEF_BH.

SOLVE THE MURDER

30 February 2016

When? February 25 – March 3 Event? Bahrain Food Festival Venue? Block 338, Adliya E Visit www. manamatourism2016.com.

When? February 25 – End of April Event? Spring of Culture 2016 Venue? Various Locations E Visit www.springofculture. org.

When? February 26 Event? Potjiekos Cooking Competition Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club E Call 17 695-809. www.culture.gov.bh.

When? February 18 Event? BSPCA Murder Mystery Dinner Venue? The British Club Have a whale of a time tapping into your investigative skills and help a charitable cause as the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals holds a murder mystery dinner themed Murder in the Thirties. The event will take place at The British Club’s Ascot Room on February 18 at 7.30pm.

It’s Roseville 1931 and the question on everyone’s minds is who shot Sam Shady, private eye to the stars?

So, gather your friends, play your part and help solve the murder.

There are prizes in the Whodunit Draw and for the best costume.

When? February 25 Event? Bahrain Garden Club’s Exhibit Venue? Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC) Visit the club’s stand at the Bahrain International Garden Show from 10am-8pm at the BIECC, Hall 2.

E Call 17 727-625 or visit www.bahraingardenclub.com for more information.

Tickets priced, at BD12 per head for tables of eight, include a three-course meal and refreshments, available at the club and the BSPCA Thrift Shop.

The proceeds for this event will go towards the operational expenses of running the animal shelter.

Call 39 609-714. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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happenings

BALLET FILM SCREENING When? February 21 Event? Movie Night Venue? La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art Ballet lovers are in for a treat as La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art hosts a delightful film screening of The Dream. The film is an American Ballet Theatre production, choreographed by Fredrick Ashton. This enduring one-act ballet is a comical tale of fairies, mismatched lovers and a mischievous sprite. It is a charming interpretation of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Robert Gottlieb of The New York Observer described the ballet as “so fluent, so charged, so natural that you know you’re in the hands of a master”.

The screening starts at 8pm and tickets are priced at BD10, which can be used as credit at the restaurant on the same evening.

Call 17 230-123, email info@lafontaineartcentre.net or visit www.lafontaineartcentre.net.

MONEY TALK When? February 23-24 Event? Fifth Euromoney GCC Financial Forum Venue? Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Bahrain is all set to host the Fifth Euromoney GCC Financial Forum, which will focus on the strategic opportunities in regional and global financial services against the background of volatile oil prices.

Co-hosted by Euromoney Conferences, the world’s leading organiser of conventions for cross-border investment and capital markets, the event will be held from February 23-24 at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, in conjunction with the Bahrain Economic Development Board.

The forum will welcome more than 500 delegates from the international, regional

and local financial communities. An impressive line-up of speakers will include financial experts, economists, investors, bankers and policy makers, to discuss how organisations can successfully navigate the ongoing challenges in financial markets as well as how to identify and exploit the opportunities in the current economic environment.

The discussions will enable regional and global financial services providers to re-appraise their business strategies. Key themes to be addressed include the regional and global market outlook for financial services; strategic opportunities in capital markets; wealth management; shared services, outsourcing and technology; Islamic finance; and hydrocarbon industry strategy.

HE Rasheed Mohammed Al Maraj, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), will participate in an open town hall-style discussion at the event. Delegates will be encouraged to participate in this interactive session and to put their questions directly to the governor.

Interested participants can join the debate and voice their opinions on the conference themes on Twitter, using the hashtag #emGCC. Visit www.euromoneyconferences.com/bahrain.html.

ONCE UPON A TIME When? February 25 Event? Caracalla Dance Theatre: Kan Ya Ma Kan Venue? Bahrain National Theatre A whimsical theatrical production Kan Ya Ma Kan (‘Once Upon a Time’ in Arabic) comes to the island this month on February 25 at the Bahrain National Theatre as the opening act of the Spring of Culture 2016. It has played around the world since its premiere in 2012 at Beiteddine International Festival in Lebanon.

The show features more than 75 performers of the Caracalla Company, run by a renowned creative team led by siblings Ivan Caracalla as director and Alissar Caracalla as choreographer. Through its sumptuous costumes, creative vision, unique dance style and harmonious melodies, the performance creates a grand spectacle in a powerful celebration of life that blends the disciplines of dance with the mystique of the Orient.

Merging past, present and future, the first act of this theatrical trilogy features the acclaimed music of Scheherazade by Rimsky Korsakov 32 February 2016

and the majestic palatial court of King Shahrayar. The second act recounts extraordinary tales from A thousand and One Nights to the timeless composition of Maurice Ravel’s Bolero. The third and final part features Arabic cultural folk music and dance performed by a starstudded cast of contemporary Lebanese artists, including Hoda Haddad, Joseph Azar and Rifaat Torbey, under the artistic direction of Maestro Abdul Halim Caracalla.

The show starts at 8pm and tickets are sold at the Virgin Megastore.

Call 80 008-089, visit www.facebook.com/culturebah or follow Instagram and Twitter @culturebah. www.bahrainthismonth.com

GO GREEN! Caring for our flora is a big part of environmental conservation and this will take centre stage at the island’s biggest garden show this month.

THE NATIONAL INITIATIVE FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Highlighting how to take care of trees will be the main focus of this year’s most popular horticultural and agricultural event – Bahrain International Garden Show 2016 (BIGS).

The event will be held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with the generous support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, the wife of the king and the President of the Consultative Council of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development.

The official launch will be on February 24 and it will be open to the public from February 25 to 28 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

This year, BIGS will be held under the theme Tree Care and will focus on agricultural skills for the care of trees, aimed at educating beginners on how to avoid mistakes and to spread the correct skills to achieve healthy fruitful trees.

Visitors will find various methods of tending to both fruiting and ornamental trees, including land preparation, irrigation, fertilisation, pruning, agricultural pest control and palm tree care.

The event represents a wonderful opportunity to connect the public with business owners and provides a chance to attract new customers and business partnerships. It usually attracts VIPs, architects, engineers, consultants, developers and professionals from various sectors, in addition to agricultural amateurs, consumers, school and university students, as well as agriculture enthusiasts. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BIGS has steadily evolved over the past years, with the number of visitors reaching more than 32,000, as well as many different exhibitors from across the world.

This year, the halls have been segmented into three different zones – Market Zone, Design Zone and Awareness Zone.

Hall 1 will be dedicated to the Market Zone, where visitors will find products and services related to agriculture, such as roses, plants, agricultural tools, pots, garden furniture, agricultural machinery, lighting equipment and more.

Hall 2 will accommodate both the Awareness Zone and Design Zone. The first will allow visitors an opportunity to see the latest advanced agricultural projects prepared by many

educational and academic entities. In addition, they will meet with different ministries that have common projects related to agriculture.

In the Design Zone, which has been allocated to participants from the public and private sectors, visitors will get to see advanced gardens and innovative services in the field of design and landscaping that will be displayed by different exhibitors.

Call 17 417-008, email info@bigs.com.bh or visit www.bigs.com.bh for more information on BIGS. Call 17 171-603 or email mai@niadbh.com for more information on the National Initiative for Agricultural Development.

February 2016 33

happenings

EVERYTHING FOOD An exciting event, promising visitors a culinary experience like no other, will be launched this month.

The Bahrain Food Festival, held as a part of Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism, will kick off on February 25 and continue until March 3. Held in the heart of the capital Manama, in Adliya Block 338; the eight-day festival will take you on a journey of Bahrain’s best hospitality outlets. With over 30 food and beverage stalls scattered around the area featuring some of the old favourites and new

When? February 25-March 3 Event? Food Festival Venue? Block 338, Adliya

attractions, the festival aims to highlight the home-grown franchises located in the Kingdom. The Bahrain Food Festival will also feature outlets related to the industry such as kitchenware and so forth. The organising committee promises a fun-filled event packed with entertainment, cooking sessions and competitions.

The festival will be held from 4pm-midnight.

Visit www. manamatourism2016.com or follow the social media accounts @tourismbh

A CULTURAL FEAST The most anticipated event of the year is just around the corner! The Spring of Culture (SOC) is one of most exciting events in the Kingdom. In its 11th year, the festival will be held from February 25 until the end of April, with the opening act Caracalla Dance Theatre: Kan Ya Ma Kan. SOC has a jam-packed agenda of exciting shows with top artists that range from dance, theatre, art, music and song, to cultural activities held throughout the island.

These happenings highlight the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and

When? February 25-April Event? Spring of Culture 2016 Venue? Various Locations

unique historic and civil landmarks, while at the same time presenting to residents and visitors of the country boundless opportunities for education, exploration and entertainment!

There is something for everyone and attractions cater to all ages and families with this year’s line-up promising to be as incredible as ever.

Further details of the festival were yet to be announced when this magazine went to press. So, stay tuned for the next issue!

Visit www.springofculture.org.

SOUTH AFRICAN FLAVOURS When? February 26 Event? Potjiekos Cooking Competition Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club

Enjoy a fun-filled day tasting the gastronomic delights and flavours of South Africa as the Bahrain Rugby Football Club hosts a traditional Potjiekos Cooking Competition.

This is an open day event that will see South African cooks putting their culinary skills to the test. It will be held on February 26 from midday onwards.

In South Africa, potjiekos, which literally translates to “small pot food”, is a stew 34 February 2016

that is prepared outdoors. It is traditionally cooked in a round, cast iron, three-legged pot, the potjie. The recipe includes meat and vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, cauliflower or pumpkin, as well as rice or potatoes, all slow-cooked with distinctive South African spices.

Entry is free and there are spot prizes for Best Pot, Runner Up and Best Stall.

Judging commences at 5pm.

Call 17 695-809. www.bahrainthismonth.com

You are cordially invited to join the Wedding Party

26-29 October 2016

The Expo and Fashion Extravaganza, coming to Bahrain

For further information to Exhibit for 4 days and to be part of the Party, contact: Email: info@myweddingparty.net | Tel: +973 1729 9123 Media Partners

afterdark happenings

REGGAE LEGENDS When? When? February 5 Event? Bob Marley Anniversary Tribute Venue? Coral Bay

Bahrain’s leading tribute The Legendz Reggae Roots leads a stellar line-up in a full day of festivities to celebrate the birthday of reggae’s brightest star, Bob Marley.

The line-up starts at 1pm with DJs Funkidruma and FarHI, who will open and close the event. Next up, at 3pm, catch glam rockers Hot Laser, Black Lime take to the stage at 5pm and The Legendz play from 7pm, so you can look forward to a full day of entertainment with food, drinks and great company.

Tickets are available in advance at Coral Bay, Camelot and JJ’s plus at the door for BD12 per person and also on www.togetherinbahrain.com.

Call 36 950-077.

VALENTINE’S RAP When? February 11 Event? Music Performance Venue? Ibrida Los Angeles rapper, singer and songwriter Dev (aka Devin Star Tailes) makes electronic, hip-hopinfluenced and danceoriented pop music based around her deadpan vocal delivery.

Active on the music scene since 1999 after her MySpace cover of Amy Winehouse’s Blonde Trick caught the attention of hip-hop duo the Cataracs.

She collaborated with them on several tracks, including 2Nite, Fireball and Booty Bounce, which was sampled on hit single Like a G6. Her single Bass Down Low charted on Billboard’s Hot 100 and she has continued producing with an album in 2011 and an EP in 2014 released after the birth of her first child.

Her performances are a mix of crowd pleasers and dance floor classics, so expect a great night to kick off the Valentine’s weekend.

Tickets are BD15 in advance and BD25 on the door.

Call 17 111-999.

36 February 2016

TRIBUTE PARTY When? February 5 Event? Reggae Legends Party Venue? Brazil Lounge

This week would have been the 71st birthday of reggae legend Bob Marley, who died from cancer in 1981. To mark the occasion Brazil Lounge presents a night in the singer’s honour.

The party starts at 5pm with an after brunch reggae session of good vibes and cool tunes from DJ Swing, one of Bahrain’s favorite spinners, followed by guest VDJ Chino from Abu Dhabi.

Chino has played across the region and has opened for various big reggae artists including Wayne Wonder, Jay Sean, Konshens just to mention a few. CHINO has also played in various clubs, yacht parties and corporate events. Catch him live at Brazil Lounge.

Call 36 869-843.

MASHUP QUEEN When? February 18 Event? DJ appearance Venue? Club XS DJ, producer, remixer, model, actress and blogger Katty Q brings her exceptional technical skills and mesmerising stage presence to Club XS at the Ramee Rose Hotel.

Originally from Siberia, Katya Kazanova is, without doubt, one of the most travelled female international DJs on the circuit, requested by fans of different genres all over the world.

Rather than showcasing just one style, she made her name as an open-format DJ, being dubbed the “The Queen of MashUp”.

Her ability allows her to read her crowd and give them exactly what they want, either on the big stage at EDM festivals, at an intimate club or at one of her regular gigs in super clubs across Asia, Europe and Russia, where she is a resident DJ for the most luxurious brands and venues.

A professional model since the tender age of 15, she has appeared on numerous magazine covers and was voted runner up in the prestigious World’s sexiest DJ poll 2015.

Entry to the event is BD5 or BD20 with unlimited drinks or BD10 with one starter and one drink.

Call 16 616-167.

When? Mondays Event? Bloodshel Live Venue? Rocky’s Café Bahraini metal rockers take to the stage from 9.30pm each week at the Ramee International Hotel, Juffair.

E Call 36 289-349.

When? February 4 Event? DJ performance Venue? Zoe International DJ Olga Ryazanova, aka Sexation, takes to the decks for a night of electronic dance music.

E Call 17 716-400.

When? February 6 Event? Reggae Legends Night Venue? Brazil Lounge The second of Brazil’s big reggae nights this time featuring DJ Kalonje playing reggae, Afro beats and more.

E Call 36 869-843.

When? February 11 Event? B Side Live Venue? Polo Gastro Pub Covers and mellow tunes from an international group of locally based musicians.

E Call 17 725-000.

When? February 12 Event? Cupid Valentine Party Venue? Kabayanz, Ramee Rose Hotel A special night with celebrity guest Ethel Booba from the Philippines. Entry BD5, BD20 with unlimited drinks or BD12 with dinner buffet and one free drink.

E Call 16 616-167.

When? February 12 Event? Valentine’s Salsa Party Venue? Coral Bay Dig out your dancing shoes and get ready for the romance of Latin sounds and moves with Salsabor Bahrain.

E Call 17 312-700.

When? February 12 Event? All Red Valentine’s Party Venue? Cavallo Club, Atiram Premier Hotel Deck yourself out in the colour of love and head to Cavallo for tunes from DJs Santi and Gretta. Entry BD5 or BD10 with a starter and one drink.

E Call Warren 35 181-111 or VJ 33 043-014.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Brunch Launch Sheraton Bahrain Hotel launched its Chocoholic Brunch at the Al Safir restaurant.

Ebtisam & Matthias

Krazy Kevin & Stan

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Annia, Camila, Elisandra & Daime

Ramesh & Pothuraju

Kumar & Abishek

Bambi & Faith

February 2016 37

afterdark happenings

PARTY CENTRAL Thanks to a winning combination of fantastic food, a chilled ambience and great entertainment, this after-hours venue is a hit with customers across the Kingdom.

RAMEE ROSE HOTEL

Located in the heart of Juffair, the Ramee Rose Hotel has become a hot favourite with the city’s late night revellers. The hotel has a new resident band, Stellar, at one of its most popular outlets, Kabayanz Lounge.

The venue offers a relaxed atmosphere for friends to meet up and enjoy an evening of great food and beverages while listening to some tunes from the talented performers.

Stellar is one of the most in-demand groups in the Philippines, thanks to undeniable talent and stage presence. Performing a wide array of songs, their set list includes old and new chartbusters that you would have loved throughout the decades, as well as a collection of R&B, hip-hop, rock and more.

The group includes three vocalists – Bam Vox, Gladys and Reigine, Joseph on keyboards, guitarist Jesse and JP on the drums.

“Every band member brings his or her own unique energy and excitement to the performances, and that make them one of the best bands in Bahrain,” says Ankush Sharma, general manger Ramee Rose Hotel.

Accompanying the band is DJ Francis, also from the Philippines, who has already amazed Bahrain’s party crowd with his tricks behind the decks at another venue. Kabayanz Lounge, located on the first floor of

38 February 2016

the Ramee Rose Hotel opens at 6pm and DJ Francis performs daily from 9pm till 2am.

The lounge has a number of daily promotions including ladies’ nights, which run from Saturday to Wednesday, and a 20 per cent discount all night on Tuesdays.

Call 36 947-093.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

DROP THE PRESSURE This popular nightclub starts 2016 with brand new in-house entertainment.

Drop in to experience the venue’s revived energy.

RAMEE PALACE HOTEL

Dublin Club, at Juffair’s Ramee Palace Hotel, proudly announces the arrival of its new in-house band Pressure Drop, fresh from the UK. This talented and energetic seven-piece ensemble graces Dublin Club’s stage six nights a week and plays a mix of rock and pop classics as well current commercial chartbusters. The band is headed by lead vocalist Chloe Elizabeth and has an impressive history in the Bahrain music scene, having played at a number of famous venues.

Get down to Dublin Club, for your chance to see the band live in action. On Saturdays they will be holding a weekly Jam Night from 9pm, where any budding musicians will have the chance to perform with the band.

In addition to great entertainment, the club has a number of ongoing promotional deals as well.

Ladies’ Night takes place four times a week on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, with unlimited beverages from the Citrus Chic menu.

You can also order succulent steaks cooked

www.bahrainthismonth.com

to perfection as per your liking and receive a free glass of house beverage with every order from 5pm-1am. The club also posts the details of these promotions and all upcoming events on its website and social media pages.

With great music, food and beverages, Dublin’s is a fun and welcoming venue, which also shows all the big sports games on large screens.

Call 33 544-291.

February 2016 39

INTERVIEWS

PHILIPPINES ON THE MAP! CHARLIE HOLDING Philippine Ambassador Alfonso A Ver talks to BTM about his impressions of Bahrain and what he hopes to achieve during his time in the Kingdom.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 43 MODEL UNITED LEARNING 44 FRANK’S NEW DOMAIN

HE Alfonso A. Ver

H

aving arrived on the island eight months ago, His Excellency Alfonso A. Ver has thrown himself into his first ambassadorial posting with aplomb and has big plans for 2016.

Ambassador Ver has served as head of mission and deputy ambassador in a number of countries during his diplomatic career but says this posting holds a special place in his heart.

He explains: “Bahrain is very open, vibrant, cosmopolitan and has a diverse economy. Over the past few months I’ve tried to get around as much as possible and I still have certain places here I haven’t visited, but that just means there are hidden jewels to be discovered.

“I’m trying to learn as much about Bahrain as possible. I want to learn the language, explore the rich culture and understand what it is about the Kingdom that has made so many Filipinos make it their adopted home for, in some cases, 30 years.”

Ambassador Ver says it’s been a very exciting eight months and he has been working with the Bahraini government to come up with initiatives to bolster bilateral relations.

As part of his role, the ambassador is keen to tackle what he calls the cornerstones of his diplomatic mission. One goal particularly 40 February 2016

important to him is raising awareness about his country’s diverse culture.

He says: “Filipinos are known as good, reliable, honest workers at all levels, from professionals to household help. However, we also have a rich culture that some may not know about, a good example was the recent performance by the National Ballet Company of the Philippines.

“Performances like this present a different side of us and our culture and I would like to see more events like this taking place in the near future.”

Another area His Excellency hopes to breathe new life into is the Philippines as a tourist destination for visitors from the Gulf. He explains: “We have some of the best beaches in the world and beautiful nature attractions.

Many people from this region choose Thailand for their vacation but the Philippines offers a charm all its own. In fact, our tagline is ‘It’s better in the Philippines’.

Besides the natural beauty, His Excellency says another reason to visit the archipelago is medical treatment. He explains: “Most of our doctors are trained in the US because of our close relationship with America and we also have world-class medical facilities.”

According to Ambassador Ver, there are more

than 10 million Filipinos currently living overseas, with an estimated 80,000 of them in Bahrain. With national elections taking place in April, His Excellency says that Filipinos in Bahrain can come to the embassy to vote.

“One of the services we provide is the overseas voting – there are many overseas workers and that is a huge block. We want to make them part of shaping the future of their country even if they’re abroad. In fact, in 2014 Filipinos working abroad remitted USD26 billion back home. Surely they deserve a say!”

Ambassador Ver says that his role requires him to wear a number of hats, from marriage counsellor to psychologist and even just a friendly ear for his countrymen.

He says: “I pride myself on being reachable any time and the embassy is very welcoming.

We’re here for our people.”

In turn, His Excellency says that Filipinos living in Bahrain have a responsibility to continue doing their part. He explains: “I tell them, you’ve been graciously welcomed here and given the opportunity to work, so you have a responsibility to be good citizens in the place you have chosen to make your second home. I tell them, in the end, you are individually the best ambassadors of our country, not me.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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interview

MAKING A DIFFERENCE THROUGH FELLOWSHIP CHARLIE HOLDING The Rotary Club of Manama is hosting its annual Kick For A Cause six-a-side football tournament to raise funds for charity.

F

areed Bader, organising committee chairman, says that this year the club hopes to raise BD80,000 for a cytometer – a state-of-the-art piece of equipment that could be instrumental in treating children with cancer.

“We host this tournament every year and funds raised always go to a good cause. In the past, we have raised money for sickle cell and diabetes but this year is particularly poignant,” he says.

“Children are dear to our hearts and when you see them suffer with this disease it’s heartbreaking. We went to Salmaniya Medical Complex, in partnership with Bahrain Cancer Society, and looked at what we could do together for the oncology centre and found out about this equipment.

“A cytometer is a laser based biophysical technology employed in cell counting, cell sorting, biomarker detection and protein engineering by suspending cells in a stream of fluid and passing them by an electronic detection apparatus. The flow cytometer delivers proven performance accuracy and high quality results. This machine is very important to help children and adults with leukemia in diagnosis and follow up and will affect their treatment as well.

According to cancer research in the UK, each year globally around 14 million people learn they have cancer and eight million of them die.

42 February 2016

Fareed Bader

However, the research suggests that one third of cancer deaths can be prevented but service and technologies are not widely available especially in low and middle-income countries.”

The Rotary Club of Manama boasts a membership from all segments of Bahraini society. It was founded in 1965 with the purpose of raising funds and giving support to community projects in the Kingdom. With the motto ‘Service Above Self’, the club is a part of a global service organisation with more than 1.2 million members.

“Through fellowship, we help the community to make it a better place to live, and changing peoples lives is what we do,” Fareed explains.

“We are celebrating our 50 year anniversary this year and we are proud to say that we have executed 120 projects worth USD5 million in Bahrain and the impact has been remarkable.

“What makes us unique in Rotary is not about who you are and where you come from. We don’t say mister, doctor or even your excellency; rotary is about giving to society. We are all Rotarians and have one goal service above self. You come to Rotary to help and not to do business and I must say that the spirit in our club is remarkable.”

Fareed says that Rotary Club International has committed its wealth and resources to eradicate polio globally with USD200 million and he hopes that the organisation can play a

major part in finding a cure for cancer, a subject close to his heart.

When his beloved mother was stricken with the disease she revealed to him before her passing, that she was taking care of some families and her only concern was what would happen to them after she was gone.

“I told her not to worry and promised I would take care of them and, since that day, I’ve dedicated my time to help needy people in any way I can,” he says. “At her funeral, hundreds of people I didn’t know turned up – men, women and children – and when I asked who they were they said ‘we knew your mother, she was so kind and lovely and used to help us’.

That day changed my life.

“My mother was my hero and my second hero is my wife – who is also involved in this project as community service director. She is the one who pushes and supports me and without her I wouldn’t have been able to achieve my goals today.”

Kick For A Cause sees 24 teams battle it out on the pitch at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club on February 12. After the matches there will be food and fun as well as the chance to win amazing prizes – donated by companies – in a raffle draw.

Fareed adds: “Although Kick For A Cause is a football match, the real goal is to raise enough funds to change people’s lives and every dinar makes a difference.”

People can donate by contacting Fareed on 17 583-121 or emailing fareedbader@gmail.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MUN takes place around the world

Bryan Wilkinson

MODEL UNITED LEARNING LIZ O’REILLY In March, Riffa Views International School (RVIS) will host the Model United Nations (MUN) with youngsters coming from across the island to debate matters of international importance. MUN director Bryan Wilkinson explains why this is more than just a classroom exercise.

F

or many of us the United Nations (UN) is a far away entity with little or no correlation to our everyday lives.

However, when we look at the group’s function – simply put, the promotion of international co-operation – it becomes clear that it has an important role dealing with issues as wide ranging as healthcare, disarmament and, of course, refugees.

But how can that be adapted to a school setting? Bryan explains: “The Model United Nations [which has been running at RVIS since 2012] is a simulation of the UN which is put on by schools and universities right across the world.

“It uses the structure of the UN and is aimed at young adults, from around age 14 upwards.

There have to be faculty members involved on issues such as finance and law etc, but it is mostly organised by the students themselves.

“As we are hosting this conference, we have invited schools from across the island to take part. As with the UN, the conference consists of several committees and students, who are www.bahrainthismonth.com

known as delegates who are assigned specific areas to research and discuss. Committee chairs are rigorously interviewed and can come from any of the participating schools.”

Committees, in which debate will take place, are: DISEC (Disarmament), Arab League (an Arab only committee) Human Rights, Security Council, the World Health Organisation and the Legal committee.

There will also be a special Trusteeship Council, mirroring a council which came into being during the Second World War, which is specifically designed for history students.

Bryan continues: “We will have student chairs and co-chairs for the committees as well as delegates. Students are allocated a country to represent and one of the big things about MUN is that they then have to go off and research their country’s position, which might not be their own, and argue it coherently in the meeting.

“Each country gives an opening speech. As at the real UN, it’s up to the delegates to find allies and they can then work together. Debates can

get a bit fiery but they are controlled, they can only speak when recognised by the chair, they can’t just blurt out their points.

“The purpose is to create resolutions to the problems presented to them.

“From the students’ point of view the benefits are many. They have to research their allocated country and history, they are involved in the organisation and hosting of meetings, it develops leadership skills, problem solving and confidence in public speaking and this is something that is very well viewed by future employers and universities.”

Students from RVIS have won multiple awards during previous MUN conferences. Awards such as Best Opening Speech, Best Delegate, Most Likely to be in the UN and Best Position Paper.

Across the course of the two-day conference there will be various prizes such as Best Delegate and Best Dressed, with the young people expected to turn out in Western business attire. And the resolutions presented can actually be forwarded to the UN. February 2016 43

interview

FRANK’S NEW DOMAIN CHARLIE HOLDING This beguiling five-star lifestyle hotel has a new man at the helm and he’s confident that the best is yet to come for the landmark property.

N

estled in the heart of Manama’s Diplomatic district, overlooking the island’s beautiful coastal landscape, is The Domain Hotel & Spa, a 36-storey venue that aims to help guests and visitors work, rest and play.

Having arrived on the island less than a month ago, new general manager, Norwegian Frank Normann Eikeland, has been spending his time getting acquainted with the hotel, its staff and the island in general. So far, his impressions have been good and this is a trend he sees continuing.

He says: “The first time I saw the hotel I was blown away. I’m already going through everything from top to bottom to see what works and what doesn’t. I want to make our standards crisp so that when people come they feel the true soul of the hotel.

“My job here is to make sure people get to know The Domain. I don’t want to come across people who haven’t heard of it, because it deserves to be known. It’s unique and spectacular.”

Frank is no stranger to the region and, having previously lived in Saudi Arabia, he knows all too well the appeal Bahrain has for our neighbours across the causeway. He explains: “My time in Saudi has made me aware that, during weekends, regardless of what’s happening, there will always be a flow over the causeway and one of my goals is to make sure our brand is known in Saudi and to other expats who come to Bahrain, too.”

Not only is Frank prepared for the challenges that await this year, he is eager to tackle them head on with the flair and focus that has cemented his glowing reputation in what he affectionately calls ‘a demanding industry’.

He says: “Oil prices have had an impact on everything; you can’t deny it. For sure we will have ups and downs, but I’m prepared for a bumpy road. I know it won’t be easy but, with 44 February 2016

Frank Normann Eikeland

the right focus, and a professional team, we will make sure we take more than our fair share of the market.”

Frank has chosen to live in the hotel in order to find its pulse and be able to respond to any situation quickly, but that’s ‘Work Frank’. He explains: “Private Frank is passionately involved in Italy. It’s funny, as a Norwegian, growing up in a cold country where all social activity takes place inside, I love Italy for all its charm, food, culture, people and, of course, landscape.

“Around 15 years ago I bought a house there and my passion has been restoring it. It’s a project that never ever ends; it’s fun to find new ways of making it better, much like I plan to do here with The Domain.”

The Domain’s impressive selection of food and beverage outlets is a point of pride for Frank, who beams as he describes his last dinner at the hotel’s Imari Japanese restaurant.

“I was having my dinner and there was a strong Japanese crowd, which lets me know we’re on the right track.”

Frank knows that authenticity and hard work are the key to success when it comes to in-house dining. In fact, he got his start in the food and beverage industry and has worked his way up the ranks – a feat that he says has given him an essential knowledge of how the hospitality sector operates.

“This sector allows you to do that, to grow and change,” he says. “It gives you an added

advantage to work your way up from the bottom, because now I know what triggers behaviours related to staff or the guests.”

One of the more pleasant surprises Frank has had since arriving on the island is the concept of Friday brunch. “I must admit, until recently I’d never been to a Friday brunch, but I was amazed by the way it’s done at The Domain,” he explains. “This is a brunch for adults that go out to have a fun, relaxed time while enjoying spectacular views and fantastic food that is freshly prepared. Our buffet goes on through both restaurants and you can see the passion the chefs have by the presentation of the food.

A lot of time and effort goes into it.

“We recently upgraded our brunch by adding more dishes, a magician and twopiece band as well as an organic salad counter and new gluten-free items to ensure we cater to all tastes.”

Being a lifestyle hotel ensures The Domain is unique from other properties on the island.

Differentiating itself from competitors is of great importance and, in order to stay a step ahead, the hotel has recently launched a mobile app, which Frank says is a reference point for people. “It’s a tourist app that allows guests to see what’s happening in Bahrain and coordinate with our concierge to book tickets for events. This is a new added value feature; it’s an ongoing process but is available for free download on Android and iPhone.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

Ali Shams

A TRANSCENDENT NEW PAGE-TURNER CHARLIE HOLDING Bahrain author Ali Shams chats with BTM about his latest book, which he hopes will be a hit with GCC youth.

W

ith three books already under his belt, including one in Arabic, author Ali Shams is no stranger to literary circles in the Kingdom, and his fourth and newest offering sees him reaching out to a wider audience.

The Transcendent is the story of a child who has out-of-body experiences, whose parents die under strange circumstances. He is sent to an isolated island, where he searches for answers and discovers that he has a bigger role to play in the world.

Ali says that his previous works, SOLO: The New World Order, The Lounge and his Arabic offering, have helped him find his stride but admits he is his own toughest critic. He explains: “I faced a number of challenges while writing this book. For starters, English isn’t my first language so it takes me more time to find the right words. Another challenge is finding a balance between my descriptions and allowing the readers to use their own imagination.”

As a Bahraini, Ali’s choice to write mostly in English may come as a surprise to some. He www.bahrainthismonth.com

explains: “I studied in English in college and my daily work is in English; the embarrassing part is that my laptop doesn’t even have an Arabic keyboard!

“In Arabic I guess my writing is more lighthearted but English tends to be more serious.

I’m not sure why; maybe the brain works differently for different languages?”

As all writers are fully aware, creating a story can be an arduous and often frustrating experience, especially when trying to balance it with separate work and family life.

Ali works as an engineer in the oil and gas industry, a far cry from his wordsmith passion.

He is also a husband and father and says that finding equal time for each facet of his life can be a tricky business.

“Sometimes it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to balance time with work, my hobby and my family,” he says.

With each of his books taking around two years to finish, Ali has the next few years of his literary career clearly mapped out. He says: “It usually takes about one year of research, putting down

thoughts, plotting the story and developing it – and the second year you can start writing it down.”

So, what’s Ali’s creative process? “I’ve been writing my whole life,” he explains. “Jotting down my thoughts, ideas and notes, but initially I didn’t have any intention of writing a book.

“I’ve not studied literature and my experience is limited to a single course I took at university, my own personal readings and an academic friend who guided me to make the book more readable.”

Ali says The Transcendent is an easily digestible story that you can read on a plane or in a coffee shop at leisure. He says: “Part of my audience is the GCC youth who don’t read heavily but would enjoy a book in English with a large font that is easy to read.”

However, Ali emphasises that the book is for everyone, not just youngsters. “People who are older can also read it and enjoy it because, at the end of the day, it’s all about taste.”

Ali’s books are published in Kuwait and the US. They are available for purchase in Jashanmal Bookstores and can be ordered online through @almasa.store.

February 2016 45

interview

Dr Rim at work

A NEW REASON TO SMILE CHARLIE HOLDING The Kingdom’s newest cosmetic dental centre is offering patients a range of services in a chic environment.

Dr Rim Bogari

C

osmetic dentist Dr Rim Bogari’s recently opened dental centre in Seef is a far cry from a typical dentist’s office thanks to its beautiful boutique ambience and Parisian flare.

Dr Rim was adamant that it had to do something different, unique and beautiful.

Classy, high-end finishes give it a European charm, which is apt considering Dr Rim obtained her qualifications in Germany.

It comes as little surprise then that she works in an efficient way – making sure everything is done to the highest standards and her attention to detail is what sets her apart. Dr Rim spent eight years in Berlin learning her craft and perfecting her skills, which she describes as a mix of dentistry and art.

“I’m a creative person, I draw and I appreciate art,” she explains. “If you want to do cosmetic dentistry you have to have an artistic eye. I work with passion and I really 46 February 2016

like what I do, I like beauty and art and cosmetic dentistry is both.”

Dr Rim believes that your smile is one of the first things people notice when you meet for the first time. That’s why she wants to ensure yours is a work of art that will help you make a good impression. “The smiles that we create always look as natural as possible and that’s our signature,” she says.

Her connection with Germany is especially apparent in her surgery, which houses a Porsche Design Studio dental chair. “It’s the first and only one in the Middle East,” she beams with pride. “I got it to ensure the best for my patients. I hate to cause anyone pain and I always try to make sure my patients are comfortable and happy.”

The dental centre offers a complete range of services such as, cosmetic dentistry (veneers, also known as a Hollywood smile), orthodontic treatment, implants, crowns and

bridges, gum disease treatment, fillings, surgery, root canal, treatment for temporomandibular joint problems and general dentistry. “We are a team with different specialisations and are highly qualified and equipped to meet our patients expectations,” says Dr Rim. Among her numerous other qualifications, Dr Rim was also recently named chairperson European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry in the Gulf. “It was an honour to be chosen so I will be doing a lot of courses here in Bahrain, doing seminars and workshops,” she says.

Dr Rim chose to open her clinic in Bahrain not just because of its reputation as a hub for the GCC, but because of the affinity she feels for the country and its people. “Bahrain is beautiful and I feel very safe here,” she says.

Brand your Smile at Dr Rim Bogari Dental Center. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Rotary’s 50th Anniversary

The Rotary Club of Manama celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Past and current presidents of Rotary gathered for a photo

DG Mustafa Nasereddin presents an award to Raj Damani, president, Rotary Club of Manama

Kanchan, Viren & Komal

Johanne & Andi

Ann, Rupert & Renuka

Mrs and Dr Nassif

Sawsan & Rahim

Huda & Sandra

Poonam & Rekha

Judy & Karen

Bassel & Harsh

Rengin, Yacoob & Seldag

48 February 2016

Angela

Ali & Larry

HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Perwin

Dr Sajiela, Lina & Zahra

Robert & Anne

HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan & Nor Hayati

Johann & Anamika

Imad, May & Mohammed

Hendrika, Fareed, Rashida & Abdulla

Roya & Nadia

Faisal

George

www.bahrainthismonth.com

mancavefeature

A Man Cave is a male retreat or sanctuary in the home, such as a specially-equipped garage, spare bedroom, media room, den or basement. With more and more men looking to deck out their private pads with gizmos, games and sporting equipment there is plenty of scope for personalisation.

BTM features the latest products, appliances, gaming and entertainment systems available for the man of the house to ensure he and his man cave make a lasting impression.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2016 49

mancavefeature

Boys Toys Prisim Bluetooth Speaker This is a colourful Bluetooth speaker with 72 individual LED lights. It boasts built-in bass technology that makes your songs sound great and, if you want it louder, simply twist the cap to adjust the volume.

R2D2 Desktop Hoover Coming from a galaxy far, far away this awesome gadget is essentially a way to keep your desk clean and have fun at the same time. Simply unscrew the top lid to dispose of waste.

Captain America Shield 3D Deco Light Shaped like Captain America’s shield placed over a cracked sticker for effect, this is a great way to kit out a room with Marvel memorabilia. There’s no wires, no fuss, just energy efficient LED lights.

X-Dream Rocker Ultra 4.1 Bluetooth Gaming Chair This gaming chair comes with a truly uniquely impressive 4.1 Bluetooth enabled surround sound system to allow you to enjoy the thrills, spills, thumps and action of any multimedia experience!

Gemini Classic Football Table Play football at home with this modern edition of the classic football table!

All products are available at www.amazon.com.

50 February 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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FROM A SINGLE BRICK IN 1991...

WE HAVE GROWN INTO A HOUSE

Tel: (+973) 17 813 777 Fax: (+973) 17 813 700 | P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Bahrain | Address: Villa 1533 | Road 2426 | Block 324 | Bahrain

telecomreview

It’s Good to Talk The telecommunications industry is one of the economy’s most active sectors thanks to a diverse number of products, carriers and services – including smartphones, smartwatches and even smarter promotions.

With a number of mobile phone operators in the Kingdom, the scope and shape of competition is intensifying as consumers look to take advantage of greater choice and better service offerings.

The quality of market share is expected to become more important as operators, in both the fixed line and mobile markets, pay attention to both their revenue and net income lines and margins.

Bahrain’s telecom market has seen a number of changes take place over 2015 and 2016 is set to continue this trend as leading operators vie for new customers while aiming to keep existing ones happy. From the newest devices across a number of platforms to additional value-added packages, this year is looking promising for tech fans and businesses in the Kingdom.

Towards the end of last year, Batelco launched a range of backup options for fixed services. To maintain business efficiency at a low cost, it is offering data backup solutions over its 4G LTE network for businesses. It provides business customers from all industries with 4G LTE backup connectivity for data services such as MPLS, Inet Dedicated and Global MPLS. www.bahrainthismonth.com

VIVA Bahrain recently entered into collaboration with Avaya – a business communications software, systems and service provider – to offer Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) for businesses across the island.

The operator said it will host Avaya’s innovative unified communications, video and contact centre solutions and make them available to enterprises in a cloud services model, enabling the purchase of capacity and services as and when needed, without large upfront costs.

Meanwhile, with a renewed focus on the prepaid youth market, Zain Bahrain believes its extensive array of data plans is just the ticket for 2016. The Dangerous Prepaid package was the first-of-its-kind in Bahrain and comes with a number of benefits including free calls to Batelco, VIVA and Zain and unlimited 4G data usage along with free international calls for a subscription fee of BD1 per week.

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain (TRA) has been hard at work and recently released its latest retail price benchmark study of telecommunications services in Arab countries. The study was commissioned by TRA on behalf of the Arab Regulators Group and it was undertaken by Strategy Analytics, an independent consulting firm that specialises in tariff comparisons.

The study shows that the prices of telecommunications services in Bahrain

continue to compare well with other GCC and Arab countries. Bahrain also improved during 2015 against developed countries that are members of the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), comparing well particularly for fixed broadband and mobile broadband prices, which are lower in Bahrain than the OECD average.

The study also shows that the customers in Bahrain have benefited from a wide range of retail telecom services and more data at lower prices. For instance, mobile prices fell by up to 55 per cent and fixed broadband prices fell by up to 85 per cent between 2010 and 2015.

The price of residential ADSL broadband with speeds up to 10Mbps reduced from BD80 in 2010 to BD20 in 2015, and the data allowance increased from 50GB to 150GB. Furthermore, the study shows that residential customers in Bahrain are starting to enjoy the benefits of ultra-fast broadband.

The telecom sector in the Kingdom is incredibly diverse, with a number of different players vying for customers and an increased market share. Besides the aggressive release of next generation devices, many companies are also planning for the future.

A recent report featuring Transportation and Telecommunications Minister, Kamal Ahmed, revealed plans for a National Broadband Network (NBN), which is set to revolutionise high-speed broadband in the Kingdom within a five-year timeframe. It will facilitate enhanced February 2016 53

telecomreview and widespread e-services including e-government, e-education, e-health, advanced e-business and e-banking.

Menatelecom, a broadband service provider, will no doubt be keen to explore this facility if its track record of providing the latest communication services to customers is anything to go by.

The company recently launched packages offering more GBs than ever before. Customers will receive free wireless devices with any new Mena Home or MyFi 4G LTE package and free downloads from 12am-12pm at full speed.

Customers can now enjoy more downloads whether surfing the net, downloading large files or watching YouTube videos. In addition, they can now get multiple free devices and share their Internet usage with friends and families when subscribing to special packages.

In a dynamic industry like telecom, the pace of change is fast, which means providers are constantly on their toes in order to meet customers’ emerging requirements. So, what does 2016 hold?

To start with, wearables are set to continue growing in popularity in Bahrain and across the GCC. Apple helped make people comfortable with the idea of wearing tiny data-collecting computer screens on their bodies with Apple Watch and, this year, expect more players to hop on this trend, and expect newer devices to be more capable.

Running out of battery life when you need it most is a situation most people dread and has led to the production of portable chargers, car chargers and, in some instances, even solar powered covers.

New technologies – some of were showcased at the recent International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) – are enabling phones to charge through wavelengths. At CES, Ossia Inc. and Japanese telecom company KDDI Corp showcased a product, called Cota, which will automatically recharge mobile phones at a distance, similar to how Wi-Fi transmitters deliver data from routers to devices. It serves as a central hub, sort of like a wireless router, that pushes out targeted energy through wavelengths to charge devices without having to plug them in or place them on a pad.

You may have heard rumblings of 5G and, this year, you’re going to hear a lot more about it.

It’s the next generation of Wi-Fi technology and it promises to make a 4G LTE connection feel like you’re moving at a snail’s pace. It will allegedly allow users to download movies in a matter of seconds, however, unfortunately, full deployment of 5G isn’t expected until 2020.

Emerging tech, such as virtual reality (VR), 54 February 2016

could stand to benefit from the technology as well. VR was among the top trends identified at CES, an event showcases more than 3,600 exhibiting companies, including manufacturers, developers and suppliers of consumer technology hardware, content, technology delivery systems and more. At the show, it was estimated that by 2025, the market for VR content would be USD5.4 billion with the hardware component set to be worth USD62 billion, according to the Piper Jaffray investment bank.

This untapped potential is likely to unleash a wave of applications that would have been unimaginable before the arrival of this relatively nascent technology. The software aspect of VR has created an ecosystem of companies that are developing virtual environments, creating and adapting content that previously only existed in two dimensions.

Garnering significant interest and attention

from the movie and gaming industry, VR devices are beginning to enable mass adoption of new forms of storytelling and content; elevating liveevent experiences such as concerts, letting people indulge in adventure sports without the risks and enjoying international retail and commercial purchases from the comfort of their own homes. This is, in turn, set to have an exponential effect on how products are marketed and advertised.

Home networking, which has come along leaps and bounds in recent years, is another trend that is expected to continue in 2016. The dream of having the ultimate connected home is within reach thanks to a number of new gadgets fresh on the tech market.

Sonos has long dominated the world of multiroom music streaming, enabling you to wirelessly control your music with an app and send it to anywhere in your house. It can be expensive but is easy to set-up and boasts a range of high-quality speakers suitable for different-sized rooms. So you can pump out big sounds in the living room with a Sonos Play 5, and background music in the kitchen with a Sonos Play 1.

With so many different companies making connected-home devices you can end up using a multitude of different apps to control them all.

Luckily, there is a way to make the process simpler; it’s called Samsung SmartThings. Users can link different smart devices to the SmartThings hub, enabling them to control of all of them at once.

One thing is certain, 2016 is going to be an exciting year for technology, telecoms and their customers alike. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BATELCO

Tune in to Something New

Muna Al Hashemi

One of Bahrain’s leading digital solutions and services providers has launched a new TV service, which delivers a full digital home solution to customers.

The introduction of the new Batelco TV service, which features attractive bundled offers with Batelco Home Broadband, will be offered at a rate starting from BD10 per month and includes OSN family channels as part of the package. As an introductory offer, new or existing Batelco Home Broadband customers can have this TV service free for three months.

Home broadband customers will benefit from free broadband usage while enjoying Batelco TV and additionally they can be assured of continuous high quality TV and video streaming.

The TV service is designed to enhance Batelco’s excellent selection of entertainment for www.bahrainthismonth.com

all Internet users in Bahrain. It boasts the best content in the Kingdom, such as live broadcast TV channels, covering all major free-to-air channels and pay TV channels (all premium packages of OSN including but not limited to International, Arabic and Asian content).

The service also offers on-demand services that include subscription video on demand (more than 1,000 titles included in the package), new movies on pay-per-view basis, catch-up TV (watch up to two weeks, and time-shift (pause/rewind live TV). In addition, recording, games and applications are key features of the service.

Batelco Bahrain CEO, Muna Al Hashemi says that Batelco prioritises its customers’ demands for life enhancing products and services, delivered at affordable prices.

“We always consider innovation, quality and differentiation when designing and developing

our products, services and solutions,” she explains. “We make sure our customers have access to the best service at affordable prices when it comes to their rapidly changing and advanced demands and requirements.

“By launching such an innovative service as Batelco TV, we aim to deliver a new and superior experience for our customers and enrich their way of life.”

Get the best TV service offer with Batelco Broadband and enjoy OSN, the latest movies, internet apps and catch-up TV to ensure you never miss your favourite shows, with all viewing in HD quality through one box. For those who desire a superior TV service, Batelco TV is the right choice, the company says.

For more details, customers are invited to visit Batelco.com or to visit any Batelco retail shop.

February 2016 55

telecomreview ZAIN

New and Innovative Packages

This telecom provider aims to highlight its commitment to customers with its latest campaign.

56 February 2016

Zain Bahrain’s ‘Addicted to Data’ campaign, falls in line with its dedication to offering value-driven services. The campaign adds more value to Zain’s home broadband packages, better known as ‘The Big Gigs Family’, with even bigger data allowances and the introduction of a new package called ‘Smarter’.

“The revamp of our home broadband packages is in line with our overall strategy, devised to ensure innovation in customer care, products and services,” says Zain Bahrain’s marketing director, Roland Lötscher. “The Big Gigs packages provide much needed flexibility and versatility to our customers and these personalised packages are designed around our customers’ diverse usage behaviours.”

Smarter, is offered at BD16 and comes with a data threshold of 150GB and a speed of up to 25Mbps. The Big Gigs packages are offered based on eight different usage preferences and their monthly fees range all the way from BD6 to BD35.

The addition of generous data allowances and innovative features has also covered the company’s mobile data offerings. The new Dangerous Prepaid packages offers young people free calls to other operators and Zain numbers, unlimited data, free 4G

LTE along with free international calls for a subscription fee of BD1 a week.

Meanwhile, the company’s Smartplans offer the latest smartphones, coupled with unlimited Zain to Zain calls, free minutes to other networks and generous data allowances.

The company reserves its cream of the crop for its elite clientele. The Signature programme is a private members club that rewards Zain’s most valued customers with the highest-quality services and offers. The Signature packages are specially designed exclusive premium phone numbers and the latest devices, all personally delivered by a dedicated team.

Zain also offers a myriad of value-added services.

Customers can now easily and securely purchase apps from the Samsung Galaxy App Store and Windows Phone Store with Zain Pay. The purchases will be charged to their postpaid bills or deducted from their prepaid balances without the need for a credit card.

Zain continues to lead the telecom market towards more innovation, through products and services that are designed to evolve with the changing needs of its customer base, the company says. www.bahrainthismonth.com

MOTORING

SUV WITH THE POWER TO SURPRISE! CHARLIE HOLDING This luxury crossover is proof that, sometimes, you can have your cake and eat it too.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 67 RISE IN REGIONAL GROWTH 70 A DRIVE TO REMEMBER

Mercedes GLC300

C

rossover cars are often met with a mixed response and, while some may love the ‘best of both’ design, purists are quick to dismiss them as less capable than their bigger siblings. Whatever side of the fence you lean to, there is no denying the appeal of the Mercedes GLC300.

Although smaller than GLE class, this sensational SUV packs more than enough punch to get your attention and, more importantly, has enough character to hold onto it.

The upright, highly expressive front and the three-dimensionally configured radiator grille lend the GLC300 a progressive presence. On the side of the vehicle, precise feature lines and muscular surfaces produce an agile and imposing look. However, as my old mum says: “It’s what’s inside that counts.”

Unsurprisingly, the levels of comfort and luxury in this premium crossover are superb.

The interior impresses with fine finishes that include open-pore wood, machined aluminium and perforated leather, but the real highlight is the infotainment system.

Navigation, telephone, audio, video and Internet are all part of the optional COMAND Online control and display system and information is shown on an 8.4-inch highwww.bahrainthismonth.com

resolution central display. Operation via the new touchpad is easy and intuitive, once you spend some time getting the hang of it.

During my early youth, there was a TV show called Knight Rider – the highlight of which was a swanky talking car. Now, although the model I drove can’t hold a full conversation, it is capable of responding to voice commands to control the radio station, access navigation controls and make phone calls, which, as far as I’m concerned, is still pretty impressive and cool.

Many automakers fit their new models with a range of driving modes to ensure you get the drive you want and need. However, when you’re dealing with Mercedes, the changes in performance and handling are dramatic when you flip the switch; so whether you’re a petrolhead or are looking for a family vehicle, this model ticks all the boxes.

Four modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport and Sport+) alter the throttle response, shift points, steering effort and optional Air Body Control. A fifth ‘Individual’ mode allows you to create a mode of your own, even letting you set the transmission for manual shifting.

I took the GLC for a spin around Isa Town to test how it performs in various scenarios and I

was not disappointed. Straight highway driving is smoother than a jazz lounge pianist when you’re behind the wheel of this SUV, and handling around tight corners was fantastic.

The dreaded Alba roundabout was the perfect place to utilise the full power of the 245bhp engine. Anyone who has driven by this roundabout knows how hazardous it can be to find a safe gap in the traffic. Luckily for me, the acceleration on the GLC was more than responsive enough to see me join safely.

In my opinion, many premium SUV owners rarely test the full capabilities of their ride, perhaps out of fear of damaging it? This is pretty sad since the designers have gone to great lengths to ensure these models are as capable as they are beautiful and, make no mistake, the GLC is very capable off-road.

Following the recent rain in the Kingdom, some dirt roads were demoted to puddles of slush that could be a real problem if you’re driving a sports car or a sedan. The GLC, however, made light work of these challenges thanks to impressive levels of torque and natural off-road capability.

I highly recommend you test drive it yourself.

Call Al Haddad Motors on 17 785-454.

February 2016 57

motoring EK KANOO - TOYOTA

Quality Service with Amazing Rewards

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom, has announced a special service offer for all Toyota SUV models.

58 February 2016

As an added incentive, customers servicing their Toyota 4x4 can benefit from a free comprehensive 21-point safety check, 10 per cent discount on labour charges and spare parts, in addition to a free camping pack.

The offer is valid until February 29 on all Toyota 4x4 models including RAV4, Fortuner, Prado, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser and Sequoia (terms apply).

Ebrahim K. Kanoo provides high standards that match the stringent criteria set by Toyota in the automotive market and is commited to sustaining the brand’s quality and customer experiences.

Customer satisfaction is the company’s foremost priority and it continues to delight them in the presale period. It also maintains quality service during all subsequent stages.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo’s wide network of service and parts centres, distributed across the Kingdom, provides excellent customer service using the latest high-tech equipment supported by highly skilled experts and technicians.

Toyota Plaza, one of the largest and most advanced Toyota and Lexus service centres in the region, is a one-stop shop for customers and a flagship project that showcases the company’s commitment to high quality service.

For more information and to book an appointment, call Toyota Plaza 17 787-888, Toyota Service Centre – Manama 17 256-677 or the Express Service Centre – Riffa 17 776-070. www.bahrainthismonth.com

The New 2016

Unparalleled Elegance The new 2016 Toyota Avalon exudes a sophisticated confidence with its elegant profile, redesigned grille and stylish new LED headlights. The interior is sculpted with user friendly technologies providing an intuitive interface for relaxed control.

Visit the Toyota showroom today and explore the new 2016 Avalon.

Sitra Showroom Toyota Plaza - Tubli

17 730 730 17 787 888

ToyotaBahrain

toyota_bh

www.toyota.com.bh

TEST DRIVE & TRADE-IN AVAILABLE

motoring

EK KANOO - LEXUS

An Exhilarating Luxury Sports Sedan Track-honed performance and aggressive styling meet the latest technology in this new model.

The new 2016 Lexus GS F performance sedan rolled into the Lexus Bahrain showroom much to the delight of motoring enthusiasts from across the Kingdom.

The sleek new model embodies the philosophy of the ‘F’ series, which, its makers say, stands for fast dynamic response, high efficiency and seamless performance on everyday roads, in addition to racetracks, that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Chief engineer, Yukihiko Yaguchi, says: “With the GS F, our aim was to develop a car that combines the versatility of a sedan with the agility and dynamic character of the ‘F’ brand.

A car that is fun to drive every day, whether it is on a busy street or a winding road, regardless of one’s driving skills. Having the driver say ‘That was fun’, ‘That was great’, after driving the car – that’s what the ‘F’ brand is all about.

“To enhance its dynamic performance and hone its handling, our team also spent countless hours on some of the most famous tracks of the world, including Fuji Speedway in Japan and the Nürburgring in Germany.”

Under the bonnet is a 5.0-litre V8 highperformance engine that emphasises sound, dynamic response and acceleration and 60 February 2016

delivers 471bhp. The engine features an optimised variable valve timing-intelligent electric motor (to produce exceptional power) and is mated to an eight-speed sport direct shift automatic transmission.

The select system allows the driver to choose the most appropriate drive mode to match their preferred style and/or situation.

Selections include normal, eco, sport S and sport S+ modes.

The GS F boasts Brembo brakes feature lightweight, highly rigid opposing six-piston aluminium mono-block callipers on the front, and opposing four-piston aluminium monoblock callipers on the rear.

A torque control system is equipped as standard and provides optimal electronic control of the torque to the left and right rear wheels according to the driving situation, achieving ideal vehicle behaviour during cornering.

The vehicle’s design is as practical as it is stunning. A good example of this is the trademark spindle grille, featuring a special ‘F’ series mesh and a pair of dramatically wide and tall air inlets beneath the headlights. These openings funnel massive amounts of air into specially-designed ducting inside the grille to maximise brake cooling and provide excellent performance.

The grille also features a new black lacquer

plated lower moulding exclusive to ‘F’ series, which provides down force to the front of the car.

The interior boasts a driver-centric cockpit with a large-diameter instrument panel that displays essential driving data. Meanwhile, the colour heads-up display allows the driver to view necessary information swiftly and without the need for excessive eye movement.

The speaker system replicates the sensation of sound experienced in a concert hall or movie theatre with 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system.

The GS F also features a number of active and passive safety features. The active safety includes pre-crash system, dynamic radar cruise control system, lane departure alert, automatic high beam / adaptive high-beam system, and blind spot monitor.

Passive safety features include a comprehensive supplemental restraint system that includes driver’s and front passenger’s dual-stage, driver’s and front passenger’s knee, front side, front and rear seat side curtain and rear side airbags.

The GS F is available in a variety of paint colours including: lava orange, heat blue, white nova, sonic silver, sonic titanium, mercury grey, graphite black and red.

Call 17 737 773, or visit www.lexus.com.bh. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Turkish Festival

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef hosted the fourth Turkish festival in the presence of Shaikh Khaled Bin Humood Al Khalifa, acting chief executive of the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, Yasser Bahaa, general manager of Mercure, ambassador’s, prominent businessmen, invited media and guests.

A traditional Turkish dance

Yasser & HE Mohammed Ali Siraj

Shaikh Khalid bin Humood & HE Shaikh Azzam bin Mubarak Al Sabah

Sebahat & Tim

Rawan & Nahed

Ratnawati, HE Chilman Arisman & HE Kiyoshi Asako

Matthew & Aracely

Omer & Abdulla

Emad & Nasser

Feni & Mariane

62 February 2015

Jassim Zayani

Ali & Romy

Yousif & HE Dato Ahmad Shahizan

Usman & Canan

Khalid & HE Abdul Redha Al Khoury

Mohammed Alzayani & Ebrahim Al Ameer

Said & Bushra

Sarah & Caryl

Wael, Emin, Majeed & Volcan

Delgin & Bushra

Ahmed

Rania

Elena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The all-new GLC. Sport Utility Vehicle Encounter every drive on a whole new level: with the all new GLC. So much is possible with the most advanced SUV in its Class.

•Garmin Map Pilot • Exclusive Interior •Reversing Camera • Blind Spot Assist •19” Alloy Wheels • 4 Matic •Agility Control • 9G-Tronic Gearbox •Active Park Assist • Keyless Go

Al Haddad Motors, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973) 17785454 marketing@alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com, www.bahrain.mercedesbenzme.com

bystander

Roland & Badriya

Tanvi & Fatema

Dayo & Marian

Prem & Nirmala

Kaizad & Stephen

Saad & Palwasha

Food Festival The Domain Hotel & Spa celebrated the launch of its Ligurian Italian and Arabic Ottoman MazMizz food festivals and the appointment of its new general manager, Frank Normann Eikeland.

Mohammed, Frank, Tony, Luai & Stephen

Momen & Fatema

Shop Bahrain

Yasmin & Edyta

Mel & Angel

Shop Bahrain, the second edition of the Bahrain Shopping Festival, initiated by Tamkeen, was inaugurated at Seef Mall with a musical event featuring various artists from the region.

Artists performing at the event

Boutaine, Marwan & Nada

Rashid, Khamis & Fahad

Mohammed & Baraa

Sultan & Abdulla

VIVA Shop & Skate outdoor ice rink at A’Ali Shopping Complex

64 February 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Revel in refinement.

Revel in the moment.

You’ve worked hard for long enough. It’s time for you to indulge more in life. Do more of what you like to do. Subaru vehicles are designed to be the bond that holds everything together so you can spend more time connecting to what matters most in life, and the Legacy is no different.

From

FREE

INSURANCE & REGISTRATION

60,000 KM SERVICE

Sitra

100,000 KM WARRANTY

SUBARU PREMIER CLUB MEMBERSHIP CARD

17 73 62 22

BD 8,300 BD 101 MONTHLY

www.motorcity.com.bh

subarubahrain

motoring FORCE MOTORS

May the Force be With You Commercial Services Co, the authorised distributor for Force Motors Ltd India, launched the new Traveller in Bahrain.

The Traveller is a mid-sized bus ideal for inter-city as well as intra-city travel and is extremely popular in the Indian sub-continent.

The Traveller is powered by a 2.2-litre Common Rail engine made under licence from Daimler AG, Germany. Its Dual Mass Fly Wheel Technology absorbs low-end vibrations and ensures a smooth ride. The advanced five-speed G-32 synchromesh gearbox – also made under licence from Daimler AG – provides low friction and smooth transmission. The special clutch lining is designed for frequent start-stop operations common in short distance travel.

Traveller’s monocoque construction offers outstanding structural strength and unmatched durability. Cathodic Electro Deposition, full body dip process for primer application ensures highest level of rust protection and Robotic top coat painting ensures gloss retention.

The Traveller is a large monocoque panel van and is entirely made of pressed steel panels welded in an automated and robotic environment offering outstanding strength and durability.

The Traveller offers unmatched seating comfort with a wide body interior of 2.2 metres, a wide aisle, full standing height and ample legroom. It has been completely tooled up and designed by the research and development team in Force Motors and is backed by the company’s

Tamkeen Launch

manufacturing experience spanning over five decades.

The Traveller offers a unique combination of outstanding performance, excellent fuel economy, unmatched strength, total safety and maximum comfort, making it an ideal choice for corporates, fleet owners, tour and travel operators and in the hospitality industry.

Tamkeen launched its advisory services in the presence of HE Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, chairman and acting chief executive, at the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

HE Shaikh Mohammad Bin Essa Al Khalifa, fourth from left, with members of partner organisations at the launch

Eman, Fatema & Fatema

66 February 2016

Dana & Nada

Maan & Mohammed

Batool & Fareeda

www.bahrainthismonth.com

EURO MOTORS

Rise in Regional Growth

This leading automaker is reflecting on another positive year in the Middle East.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

The BMW Group’s presence in the Middle East is formidable and the company recently marked a milestone of 33,516 BMW and MINI cars sold across 12 countries, representing an 11 per cent increase in sales over 2014.

The company witnessed growth in almost all markets, with the UAE performing the best in terms of volume sales with 20,090 cars delivered to customers across all the emirates, followed by Saudi Arabia with 4,125.

Highlighting the continued strength and desirability of the brands across the region, despite an increasingly challenging and highly competitive automotive market, Johannes Seibert, managing director for BMW Group Middle East, says: “Our yearend performance shows healthy growth across the region, underlining the unwavering confidence that customers have in our brands. Our portfolio of exceptional products and innovative technologies, as well as the excellent retail services offered by our importers, have proven the ideal combination and are all driving factors behind our success.”

The brand’s top-end models continue to be in demand, with the BMW X model family playing a key role in its growth. All remained strong competitors within their respective segments and accounted for 55 per cent of the total sales – the BMW X5 alone sold over 10,109 units. The newest member of the family, the second generation BMW X1, made its Middle East debut at the Dubai International Motor Show, and is expected to further drive sales of the range in 2016.

Another best-seller was the sixth generation flagship BMW 7 Series, a model that is already driving interest across the region, which is expected to continue into 2016. The Middle East also retained its position as the third biggest BMW 7 Series market in the world after China and the US. MINI also experienced a successful year in the region with 1,806 cars sold across eight markets, a 12 per cent increase on 2014 figures. Model sales were driven by the MINI Countryman followed by the MINI Hatch, which accounted for 66 per cent of the total sales, and the MINI John Cooper Works, the third biggest seller.

The new MINI Clubman, which was recently unveiled to regional audiences at the Dubai International Motor Show, marks a new chapter in the brand’s history, embodying MINI’s more grown-up visual identity.

In response to the challenges that have surfaced in the ever-changing and highly competitive automotive market over the past years, BMW Group has introduced a reinvented and revolutionised strategy to secure its position at the very forefront of the industry, the company says.

While the marketplace has become over crowded with brand messages and an abundance of purchasing choices, the car manufacturer has focused on the evolution of customers’ buying behaviour when forming its new strategy to remain in poll position.

Call 17 750-750.

February 2016 67

motoring BIN HINDI MOTORS - KIA

Cutting-edge Technology

This new model is a sleek fusion of bold style, passionate performance and advanced technology.

68 February 2016

The 2016 Kia Optima confidently pushes the boundaries of what you can expect from a mid-sized sedan – with plenty of attitude to spare! The model, recently launched by Bin Hindi Motors at its showroom in Sitra, is already drawing praise from motoring enthusiasts thanks to its eye-catching design and impressive list of features.

Optima is the fourth-generation of Kia’s popular D-segment sedan and features a modern, new exterior, a bold interior design with more space and an array of new technologies. Retaining the sporty image that has helped the Optima become one of Kia’s bestselling models worldwide, the latest generation offers greater refinement, improved ride and handling and also comes as a high-powered GT model.

The dramatic revamp has seen improvements made to almost every aspect of the car, making it even more compelling proposition to buyers – both private and fleet – in a segment that is forecast to expand by 6.4 per cent to 5.76 million this year.

Exterior styling maintains the athletic identity that made this model so popular, while making a confident leap forward to attract new buyers looking for something different. The new look was designed to be functional and sporty, with exterior dimensions that are marginally longer, taller and wider.

The new GT model – boasting higher power and a sportier drive than the standard Optima range – features a more purposeful look, in line with its

dynamic intent. Differences include a bolder, more aggressive front bumper design; black high gloss side sills; a subtle rear air diffuser with integrated dual tailpipes and special GT badging.

The material quality of the cabin boasts a number of soft-touch materials, as well as cloth and leather trim in natural tones. Tasteful metallic accents throughout add a higher quality ambience to the interior, while greater application of soundproofing ensures refinement is better than ever.

This sleek sedan features a uniquely-engineered body, which combines more high-strength materials than ever before, resulting in even higher standards in crash testing. Passive safety is further improved with the total number of airbags increasing to seven. The Optima will be available with driver, driver knee, passenger, two front side and two curtain airbags.

The new Optima will be a strong performer in global safety tests thanks to its suite of new technologies designed to avoid or mitigate the effects of a collision.

Meanwhile, innovative on-board technologies are available to improve usability, comfort and convenience. As standard, the Optima is fitted with a 3.8-inch mono TFT LCD audio display with Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and aux-in and USB ports.

The touchscreen infotainment system is paired with a six-speaker audio system as standard. A powerful 590watt Harman Kardon Premium Sound system, featuring 10 speakers, an external amplifier and Clari-Fi MP3 restoration technology, is also available as an option.

The Optima is available with a 2.0-litre Multi-Point Injection (MPI) and 196Nm torque on offer. The 2.0litre MPI engine accelerates from 0-100kmph 10.8 seconds.The 2.4-litre MPI engine, accelerates from 0-100 kph in 9.4 seconds, while the 2.4-litre Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine can make the dash in a hair over nine seconds.

GT models are equipped with Kia’s new 2.0-litre Turbo GDI (T-GDI) engine, a high-performing power unit producing 350Nm torque that is capable of accelerating the Optima from 0-100kmph in 7.4 seconds.

Every engine in the new Optima range is sold as standard with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.

Visit the new Kia Motors showroom in Sitra where you can take a test-drive and experience the new 2016 Kia model range.

Call 17 408-800, 17 702-000 or email kiasales@binhindi.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoring Y K ALMOAYYED & SONS – NISSAN MAXIMA

A Drive to Remember Following a dramatic revamp, this model is bigger and better than ever.

If you’re looking for a new car that offers value for money and a comfortable drive, the new Nissan Maxima may be the one for you.

Following an impressive overhaul, this model looks better than ever thanks to graceful lines, contours and an aerodynamic design that is stylish and practical – and that’s just the exterior.

The interior is spacious and comfortable with tastefully designed finishes that give this model a luxurious ambience. The dash is dominated by quality leather, which gives the cabin a smooth, clean look and the distinctive flatbottomed steering wheel adds a sporty touch.

The focal point of the cabin is a command centre that incorporates bespoke

70 February 2016

craftsmanship and anchors the redesigned interior, which, incidentally, gives many luxury models a run for their money. The state-of-theart infotainment system has easy to use controls that are laid out clearly and efficiently.

This eighth-generation model is the sportiest, most powerful Maxima ever made, created by driving enthusiasts for driving enthusiasts, its makers say – and they’re not wrong. It is sportier and more powerful than the outgoing model thanks to a 3.5-litre V6 that generates 300bhp.

Make no bones about it, the Maxima is quick off the mark and when you switch to sport mode the drive changes accordingly. The sports mode of the vehicle gives an extra punch, surely taking some pointers from the GTRs driving abilities.

For a relatively large model, the Maxima handles well and performs confidently around corners. Standard highway driving is a breeze and the tiptronic gearbox provides the opportunity to shift manually.

Obviously, safety cannot be overlooked and this model includes antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and a rearview camera as standard. There is also an impressive array of available features that are almost too numerous to mention.

All in all, the Maxima will get you wherever you’re going on time and in style.

To know more details about the car or to book your test drive call on Sitra showroom 17 732-732 or Arad showroom 17 221-555.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

motoringnews&launches

Simply The Best This premium active compact car has been awarded best-in-class “small family car” 2015 by Euro NCAP, the independent vehicle safety organisation in Europe.

The announcement of the “small family car” award for the new Infiniti Q30 coincides with the new model arriving at Infiniti showrooms across Europe.

Having a host of state-of-the-art safety systems on board, Q30 delivered outstanding results in all test areas, such as crash test performance as well as child and pedestrian protection. In the latter category the active bonnet helped it to gain results that were among the best of 2015.

Q30 clearly surpassed all of its competitors that were tested in this segment. This achievement directly follows the maximum five-star rating Infiniti Q30 received in Euro NCAP’s latest safety test at the end of 2015.

“We are honoured that our all-new Q30 has been awarded a ‘best-inclass’ rating by Euro NCAP,” says François Goupil de Bouillé, vice president of Infiniti Europe, Middle East and Africa. “This is a clear testament of the many excellent qualities of our first premium compact car and the result of our continuous development of innovative safety technology for all of our models. Our goal has always been to deliver our customers a unique driving experience while offering maximum safety for all occupants.”

Five Star Euro Ncap Safety Rating The latest models from this iconic marque have scored top marks in coveted ratings.

The Jaguar XE and XF saloons have been awarded the maximum five star rating in Euro NCAP’s 2015 safety tests. Both models scored highly in every category – Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Pedestrian and Safety Assist – and are among the most highly-rated models in their respective segments.

As well as outstanding crash protection, the XE and XF also benefit from a range of active safety systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking (fitted as standard in Europe), which uses a forward-facing stereo

camera to detect vehicles which could pose a threat of collision: the system can give the driver visual and audible warnings and automatically apply the brakes if a collision is deemed imminent.

“The XE and XF were engineered without compromise: we placed just as much focus on safety as we did on dynamics, performance, refinement and efficiency, and our stringent in-house standards far exceed the requirements of legislative and consumer tests,” says Kevin Stride, Vehicle Line director, Jaguar XE, XF, F-PACE. “Everything from the aluminium alloys we developed for the body structures to the state-of-theart stereo camera at the heart of the autonomous emergency braking system has been painstakingly optimised to deliver world-class levels of safety,”

Crossover With Character This model doesn’t just rely on its unique design to win fans; it boasts a number of impressive features as well.

The Suzuki Vitara has been revamped for 2016 and is aiming to carve its place in the highly competitive crossover segment. During the design phase, Suzuki was keen to improve the aerodynamics; so sharp corners have been replaced by sleek curves – making it more visually appealing and practical.

The Vitara comes in 15 different colours, including three new options – orange, white ivory and turquoise. Customers wishing to display their individuality have the option of mixing two colours for a more distinctive ride.

The interior is spacious and well-designed with a seven-inch touchscreen monitor that can be used to control the sound system and linked with your smartphone.

The Vitara comes with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Suzuki has showrooms in Sitra and Khamis.

To book a test drive, call 17 707-070 or 17 252-606.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2016 71

bystander

AJM Launches New Facility

Caltex and AJM Kooheji Group held the grand opening of the Delo Xpress Lube Centre in Ma’ameer.

Management at the inauguration of the new facility

LG Seminar Ctroniq Awards Night

AJM Kooheji Group hosted the first annual Ctroniq retailer awards ceremony, ‘Night of the Stars’, at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa.

Management and staff at the cake-cutting

Lexus Launch

LG Electronics Gulf, in association with AJM Kooheji Group, held a tech seminar on LG Information Display solutions at the showroom in Sehla. The seminar was attended by leading consultants, architects, property developers and system integrators.

Anil, Kaizad & Sanjeev

The new Lexus GS F luxury sports sedan was launched at the Lexus showroom in Sitra in the presence of the management and staff of Toyota Motor Corporation and E K Kanoo.

Management and staff at the launch

Isa Kanoo & Khalid Kanoo

Grant & Trevor

72 February 2015

Lourdes & Randa

Tabea & Puna

Fayez, Khalid Kanoo, Waleed Kanoo & Samir

Abdulla, Ahmed & Shaheen

Henry & Alaa

Naheed & Asma

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Muriel, Tara & Glenif

Hamlet in Bahrain

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre performed Hamlet live at the Cultural Hall in Bahrain as part of its world tour.

A scene from the play

Kate & John

KIA Launch

Dr Abdulla & Dr Marwa

Yara, Agnes, Abbas

Sawsan & Marium

Aya, Maya & Lamia

AA Bin Hindi launched the new KIA Optima at its showroom in Sitra in the presence of management, staff, media and invited guests.

Management, staff and models with the new car

Momen & Thomas

Karthik & Abdulrahman

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Fuad & Keshav

Eziddin, Ghassan & John

Loay & Ali

Olga & Julia

Mahendra & Mahasum

Ullas & Santhosh

February 2016 73

bystander

“Murder in the Thirties” Murder Mystery Dinner

British Club Ascot Room

18th February - 7:30pm

Roseville 1931

Cleef & Arpels reopened its store at Moda Store Reopening Van Mall with an exhibition and ribbon cutting.

Who shot Sam Shady, private eye to the stars?

Management at the opening ceremony

Join us to solve the murder ...

Ronain, Elyana, Alessandro & Alexandra

Prize for the winner of the “Whodunit Draw and for best costume.

Omar & Elodie

Sara & Frankie

Tickets for tables of 8 (3 course meal & refreshments) available at the Club & the Thrift Shop

BD12

per head Alexandra & Magda

Sara & Anastasia

Amal, Yulia & Georgina

Olivia

Designed by Peg Altemueller

For info tel 3960 9714

74 February 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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

M-155 Gaming Monitor This is a 15.5-inch, 720p LED display that will connect to any device, be it computer or console, with HDMI output and a USB port for power. It is extremely light and can fit in any laptop bag, so it’s perfect for carrying around with you.

Braven Bridge

StinkBOSS

The Braven Bridge ensures that multitasking on-the-go is easy. It uses 360-degree highdefinition microphones that are equipped with noise cancelling technology, enabling travellers to conduct conference calls without missing a beat.

The StinkBOSS shoe deodoriser is an enclosure that moves ozone molecules through every fibre of your shoes. This can kill 99 per cent of bacteria and viruses that would affect you or your feet, without the use of any harsh chemicals or solvents.

The StinkBOSS can also be used on any articles of clothing or winter gear that you can’t easily wash.

Totem Recycling Bin This bin will help you sort out your garbage by having special compartments for each type of waste. There’s a 36-litre general waste compartment, a 24-litre multi-purpose drawer and a 4-litre compartment for food, so anyone who has the ability to make compost can keep their leftovers in the smaller compartment until the bag is full.

Ilumi BR30 Bulb This is a smart bulb that has been specially designed to illuminate and create the perfect atmosphere in any outdoor area of a home.

The colour-tunable bulb can be set to millions of different colours thanks to its patented HyperLux LED technology.

Kopin’s Solos Eyewear iBlades Nikon KeyMission 360 The KeyMission 360 is a wearable action camera that is capable of recording true 360-degree videos in 4K Ultra HD. It is usable in a variety of conditions, from hot desert environments to freezing icy climates. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Protecting your phone with a hard shell, this case is equipped with attachable smartblades to upgrade the features of your phone that you use the most. It easily snaps into place with extra strong magnets on the back of the case. You can choose to get up to 10 times the battery life, 1TB of extra storage, or fill the case with your favourite content to watch and listen on the go.

These smart glasses for cyclists allow enthusiasts to access and share performance data in real-time, directly from their smartphone or wearable fitness device courtesy of the high-definition head-up display. They rest comfortably on the face, while the minimalist and flexible design allows the Solos to be compatible with any aerodynamic helmet.

February 2016 75

music

David Bowie - Blackstar What’s the story?

Blackstar is the 25th and final album from British icon David Bowie. Released on his 69th birthday, Bowie’s swan song shows him reinventing his sound once again, and, as fans were to find out just two days after its release, for the final time.

Bowie hired New York jazz experts led by Donny McCaslin to complement the album, who recorded it unaware of Bowie’s declining health. It has since emerged in the wake of his passing that the singer had planned for the album to be his farewell, which becomes apparent in the dark lyrics that pre-empt his impending death.

Worth a listen?

Lead single Blackstar, with its doom-tinged elegance, multiple narrators and whiff of the occult, gives you a reasonable idea of what to expect: an oddity. Not a space one this time, but an eclectic mix from this most genius of musical minds.

It’s the standout track by far. Its big band melodrama is welded to a frantic, drum n’ bass rhythm, its cacophonous climax reflecting the lyric’s murderous intent.

Another highlight, Lazarus, is sung from the perspective of Newton, the homesick alien Bowie played in 1976 film The Man Who Fell To Earth, and who is also the subject of his new musical. Over a thick, skulking groove, he inhabits the woes of a man out of time, scarred and self-mutilated.

This is a wonderful album, as sonically mournful and melancholy as the mentality of the legend’s fans who now know they won’t hear this magical voice produce more masterpieces.

Verdict: A terrific record touched with tragedy.

Shorts

Panic! At The Disco - Death of a Bachelor

Daughter - Not To Disappear Not To Disappear is a far more powerful, affecting and confident record than the London trio’s first effort, If You Leave.

There’s a fresh, subtle aggression to the music in places (like the surging guitars and crunching drums on opener New Ways) and the franker lyrical approach makes the sentiments within even more capable of breaking your heart than before. Lead singer Elena Tonra is more poignantly present than ever and her suffering is an emotional outburst we can all find strength in.

76 February 2016

Ten years after steamrolling into the mainstream and into the iPods of teenagers everywhere, the emo-glam show ponies have descended into the ever more bizarre musical fantasies of frontman Brendon Urie. He himself describes their fifth album as a mixture between Frank Sinatra and Queen, and amazingly he isn’t wrong. That means a little more glitzy polish intertwined with snarls of debauchery, particularly on standout Don’t Threaten Me With a Good Time.

The album doesn’t always work and smacks of a band trying too hard to carve its own wacky niche, but there are a few hidden gems here and there for the more casual fans.

Prince - HITnRUN Phase Two At 57, Prince is not going quietly into that good night, firing out yet another album. You could argue he’s going through a ‘purple’ patch and has shaken off his creative malaise, as this album marries him with his classic funky essentials once again.

Phase Two reunites Prince with backing band The New Power Generation and his craftsman’s way with a song. It’s much warmer than previous efforts thanks to analogue recording equipment and the desire to sing romantic lyrics rather than disdain and innuendo. His sense of melody has diminished slightly since his heyday and he’ll never hit those heights again, but fans will still enjoy this, no doubt. www.bahrainthismonth.com

games

Games review Game: Just Cause 3 Rating:****

What is it?

Set in the tranquil Mediterranean island republic of Medici, a land crumbling under the brutal rule of general Di Ravello, you once again assume control of hero Rico Rodriguez – a man on a mission to liberate his homeland by any means necessary. With more than 400 square miles of utter freedom from sky to seabed and a massive arsenal of weaponry, gadgets and vehicles, players can unleash chaos in the most creative and explosive ways they can imagine.

Gameplay:

Verdict:

A hectic and outrageously fun action-fest.

For pure mindless open-world fun, Just Cause 3 is unparalleled in the gaming world, even against similar franchises such as Grand Theft Auto. Rico is a cross between a macho action star and a comic book character, so while the game is grounded, the almost superheroesque way in which he can use his wingsuit, grappling hook and parachute on a whim gives you a sense of freedom you don’t get in more realistic titles. This map is also massive, so it’s a very fast and effective traversal system of the mountains, beaches and buildings that dot the landscape.

Quantum Break

Quantum Break blurs the line between television and gameplay, integrating the two into one seamlessly immersive sci-fi drama experience. This action-packed, fast-paced game lets you bend and shape time in order to survive. Master unique powers, bending and warping time to outmanoeuvre and outwit the enemy.

How you play the game shapes a personalised version of the television show.

Watching the show gives you strategies and insights that will impact the way you play the game and help you discover unique content. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Graphics:

The beauty of Medici is almost as insane as Rico’s exploits. Lush green fields give way to golden beaches, touched by turquoise sea.

Considering the size of the game, it’s quite a feat that it can be so consistently beautiful, although the caveat of this is the crippling loading times. You’ll find yourself cursing in-mission deaths not because of having to try again, but because you’ll be subject to loading times bordering on a whole minute. There are a couple of bugs, but nothing too distracting considering how consistently well the game runs.

Street Fighter V

The iconic arcade side-scrolling fighting series returns with its fifth main instalment. Featuring 16 characters, a combination of classic scrappers like Ken and Ryu and newcomers, Street Fighter V pits two fighters against each other at a time, who use a variety of attacks and special abilities to knock out their opponent. The game features the EX gauge, which builds as the player lands attacks and can be used to either power up special moves or perform super combos known as Critical Arts. The ‘V-Gauge’ builds as the player receives attacks and adds three new techniques: V-Skills, V-Reversals, and V-Triggers.

Gone Home

Gone Home is a conceptual simulation game somewhat themed after classic adventure titles where how you interact with space around your characters determines how far you progress in the game. This title is all about exploring a modern, residential locale and discovering what happened there by investigating a deeply interactive game world.

It aims to push for true simulation, both in the sense of the physics system but also in allowing the player to open any door or drawer they’d logically be able to and examine what’s inside, down to small details.

February 2016 77

websites

VERDICT: Fantastic resource for DIY enthusiasts looking for the weird and wonderful.

Grace & Maya

Maya’s 3rd Birthday

Site: http://www.instructables.com/ Rating:*****

Maya Gajria celebrated her 3rd birthday with family and friends at Yellow Submarine, Saar Mall.

What is it?

Zahra, Maya & Ranjit

Abdulrahman & Feras

If you’ve ever come across something really cool on the Internet but wondered how to make it, Instructables might be the website for you. It’s a massive repository of guides for making everything from mood lamps to robots to chandeliers. If you want to make it, someone will show you how.

If you’ve been looking to get into DIY culture, here is a great place to start.

The Good

Bharti, Mrs & Mr Gajria

Joshua & his mom

This website proves that there’s much more to community-created content than silly pictures or quotes to share on Facebook. The best of the Instructables are extremely well thought out, with excellent photographs and detailed instructions. Quite often the projects are improved upon by the site’s community, whose many comments show up in the comments area beneath each Instructable.

The Bad

The thousands of projects on the site range from the eminently useful to the absolutely ridiculous, but this comes with some negatives. As to be expected from a community of mad scientists and maverick inventors, there’s no restrictions on what can be posted, so many ideas will be extremely dangerous or hazardous to health. Be very careful what you choose to create, especially around children.

www.rememberthemilk.com Vijay Boloor & Maya

Sharifa, Dalal & Noony

Nana & Maya

Claire, Joel, Zahra & Ranjit

Zahra, Sarah, Neena & Khalil

78 February 2016

Riyaz, Gazala & Ayaan

Remember the Milk is a to-do website that lets you share lists and tasks you create with others. You can create a task, assign a due date, attach notes (as typed text only, not uploaded files), and add tags and a time estimate to them.

Tasks can be grouped into Lists, such as personal to-dos, family to-dos, and work tasks. Or you might make an old-fashioned list that’s not taskspecific at all, such as a shopping list. Make sure you remember the milk!

www.join.me

Join.Me offers a videoconferencing service. You can make use of a variety of features, such as screen sharing with VoIP calling for up to 250 participants, along with email support and unlimited audio conferencing. If you’re willing to pay, there’s an enterprise plan which includes integrations and email and phone support, with 5TB of cloud storage. www.bahrainthismonth.com

apps

Essential Apps BTM brings you the low-down on the latest and greatest apps on the market.

The Good:

App: 5Miles Rating:***

Verdict: A handy app for buying local wares, but it has some self-imposed

limitations.

What is it?

5Miles is a free app designed to connect nearby buyers and sellers on their smartphones. Once you sign up for a new account, you’re prompted to take a selfie and verify your profile. You can connect your profile to Facebook, your phone number, your email address, or any combination of the three. People looking at your profile can see all the ways in which you’re verified, so, the more you confirm that you are who you say you are, the more trustworthy you seem.

App: Universal Zoom

Universal Zoom is an app that explores the scale of the universe and the relative size of various objects and distance between them. From the tiniest subatomic particle to clusters of galaxies, it depicts more than 200 representative objects of different sizes for comparison. It is an excellent educational tool for students or curious adults who want to learn more about the world around them. www.bahrainthismonth.com

5Miles marketplace includes goods, services, housing and even job offers. When you start browsing, the app displays an assortment of new goods and services for sale within five miles of your current location. It’s a splashy screen, a highlight of an overall attractive and intuitive interface, with a search bar that works well and opens up to further subcategories for specific listings.

There are many options for customising your query and you can expand or narrow listings down even further by changing your search radius.

Putting up a listing is as easy as finding one. Upload a picture and fill out the category, price and location fields. You then either type out a description or record a voice description.

The Bad:

5Miles’s focus on keeping transactions local is only really useful for certain types of services. Unless you really don’t want to pay for shipping, or are dead set on seeing a used item in person before you make a deal, there’s not much of a difference between buying something off the Internet or using this app. There’s also no way to formally rescind an offer. The listing just lingers on the buying/purchased section of your profile. If you do change your mind and back out of the deal, you’re supposed to simply tell the seller via a message.

App: Smartly.Me The Smartly.Me app is a place to get suggestions for the phone you want to buy, along with news about upcoming phones and suggestions for apps and games you should install.

You’ll see a picture of the phone, along with details about availability and price, as well as a list of unique features. The news and reviews section adds a little more value by aggregating information from various sites, which gives you a more comprehensive look at the pros and cons of a phone than a single review.

February 2016 79

movies

VERDICT:

Brilliant return that lives up to the hype … and more.

Christmas Celebration Maeve and John Kelynack Skinner hosted a party for friends and family at their home in Saar to celebrate the season with their son Rory who returned to Bahrain for Christmas.

Rorya, Maeve & John

Jess, Peter & Dearbhla

Film: Star Wars: The Force Awakens Rating: ***** Directed by: J.J. Abrams Starring: Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley

The Plot:

Geraldine, Peter, Marie, Mohammed & Debbie

Bruce

This is a movie where you will want to know as little as possible before you go in (a deliberate ploy established by the movie’s marketing team).

As background, though, 30 years have passed since Return of the Jedi and Luke Skywalker (Hamill) has disappeared off the face of the … galaxy. The First Order – a successor to the evil Galactic Empire, led by Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) – and the Resistance, led by military general (apparently a promotion from the rank of ‘princess’) Leia Organa (Fisher), are scouring the galaxy for him.

Caught up in the search is scavenger Rey (Ridley) from the planet of Jakku, renegade Stormtrooper Finn (Boyega) and spherical droid BB-8.

Worth Watching?

Whether it’s for the nostalgic tinges like the opening crawl and John Williams’ evocative score, or for the new elements like the determined Rey or the happy-go-lucky Finn, The Force Awakens is a delight from start to finish. The fact that the film has managed to live up to the ridiculous hype and deliver a movie that does not just solely rely on pandering to the original trilogy for cheap sentiment is testament to both the fantastic cast and the visual feast served up by the director.

Ross, Ruth, Jonty, Hayley, Shane & Rory

Deadpool Mark, Rebecca, Jessica, Stephanie, Susan, Yesmin & Benjamin

Eva, Shandra, Jennifer & Vera

80 February 2016

Costa & Amal

Based upon Marvel Comics’ most unconventional anti-hero, Deadpool tells the origin story of former special forces operative turned mercenary, Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds), who, after being subjected to a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers, adopts the alter ego Deadpool. Armed with his new abilities and a dark, twisted sense of humour, Deadpool hunts down the man who nearly destroyed his life.

Zoolander 2

When the world’s most beautiful musical celebrities are systematically assassinated with formerly-famous male model Derek Zoolander’s (Ben Stiller) iconic ‘Blue Steel’ look on their faces, Interpol recruits Derek and his friend Hansel McDonald (Owen Wilson) to infiltrate a new and different world of high fashion in order to put a stop to it. Meanwhile, Derek’s rival Jacobim Mugatu (Will Ferrell) is set free and is seeking revenge. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Our most fragrance ever!

STORE LOCATIONS • City Centre Bahrain • Seef Mall • Muharaq Shopping Mall

Customer Service: 8000-1320

valentine’sfeature

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas It’s that time of year again, when you wrack your brain trying to think of that special something to give your partner.

Well, stop stressing and pick from these options that personify endless love. You’re welcome!

Scent of a Man Ladies; it’s not only his clothes, even his scent makes a man. For something truly exquisite, give him Beloved Man, the perfume from Amouage – a woody, spicy and oriental fragrance perfect for the manly man.

Take Him Out Even if your man isn’t exactly a young gun anymore, trust us; boys will be boys.

For the ultimate Valentine’s treat, take him for a fun playdate. A game of laser tag at Ozone Entertainment Centre in Sitra Mall is sure to get his heart pumping faster for you. For something more gravity defying, take a freefall through the world’s tallest glass tunnel at Gravity Skydive, Zallaq. More adrenaline, more love!

Accessories Belts, lapel pins, ties, watches and wallets are absolute must-haves. For the man on the move; briefcases, backpacks and sunglasses will make him think of you while he’s away. A pen from Montblanc, a personalised leather bound journal or even a sassy letter opener will make a statement on his work desk. Check out Saks Fifth Avenue for uber-stylish men’s accessories.

DIY Time Something that is handmade or personalised carries extra weight when it comes to saying, “You’re special”. Photo frames are passé; make a handmade calendar for the year ahead instead. As he flips the pages, he can enjoy different memories each month.

Comfort Zone Sharing time together in the plush seating of a recliner makes it that much more relaxing. Raid Homebox at Marina Mall or Danube Home in Salmabad for the perfect one. If your pockets are as deep as your love, get him a massage chair.

82 February 2016

Sweet Somethings To satiate his sweet tooth, skip the supermarket and go for the real deal. Maya La Chocolaterie at Seef has an exotic range of treats – bonbons, enrobed nuts and strawberries swirled in rich chocolate to make memories of Valentine’s Day all the sweeter. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Scent of a Woman A fragrance is not just a whiff of the divine; it is evocative of a time and a place. A woman’s fragrance speaks of her, so choose wisely. The master perfumers at Bottega Veneta have captured the very essence of a woman in their signature blends. If you like a floral scent, go for the Red Roses collection from Jo Malone London, a bold blend inspired by seven of the world’s most exquisite roses.

Accessories There is no dearth of the variety of accessories that you can give a lady.

From bags, purses and belts to chic baubles; she’ll love them all. Carolina Herrara at Bahrain City Centre has some swoon-worthy scarlet-hued accessories to underline your love for your lady. If in doubt, a Michael Kors bag will never fail to earn you bonus brownie points.

Comfort Zone If your gal is the practical kind, skip the enormous bouquet of roses and get her a giant hamper of lotions and potions that smell and feel heavenly.

The all-natural products from The Body Shop are an absolute treat to the senses; they’ll leave her feeling like a million bucks.

Take Her Out Whisk her away for a staycation at any of the island’s great hotels, where she can indulge in spa treatments, or stroll the pristine beach; fingers entwined with yours, of course. The Al Areen Palace and Spa’s pool villas are private havens of Arabian decadence. Alternatively, the Domain Bahrain Hotel offers panoramic views of the skyline as you wine and dine, or get a couple’s massage.

Psst… they claim to have the best view of the sunset.

DIY Time Nothing that you buy off the shelves will make her go, “awww” like something that you have put together yourself. A compilation of her favourite songs or a CD playing her favourite band will make her smile every time she listens to it.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Sweet Somethings Every girl, no matter what age, loves chocolate. Woo her with customised creations from Maya Delices. The finest cocoa beans make for rich chocolate creations with elegant designs. With these decadent treats, you’ll hit all the right notes.

February 2016 83

diningvalentine’sday

Romance on the Menu You might have bought the most beautiful gift and showered your beloved with sweet surprises, but your Valentine’s Day celebrations aren’t complete until you’ve had the perfect dinner date.

Restaurants around the island bring out their best to make your evening truly memorable.

From five-star extravagance to charming boutiques and casual diners, Bahrain This Month has put together a list of some of the best venues for a romantic meal.

Venue: Saffron and Keizo Location: Al Areen Palace & Spa Savour a decadent five-course meal at Keizo for BD 22++ per person or at Saffron for BD18++ per person. Additionally, book an intimate island gazebo for BD50 (just the rent) and valentines décor for your table for BD25.

Call 17 845-000.

Venue: Various Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa La Med offers a four-course set menu with live entertainment for BD70++ with a bottle of sparkling grape and BD100++ with a bottle of bubbly. For a six-course meal, priced at BD90++ per couple, head to Plums. Expect handcrafted cocktails served in crystal carafe at BD12++ per couple. Nirvana offers a fourcourse meal for BD22++ and Primavera for BD39++ per person.

Call 17 580-000.

84 February 2016

Venue: Kolors Location: The K Hotel Have a great time at the newly refurbished allday-dining restaurant, Kolors, which will be decorated for the occasion. This special treat is priced at BD30 per couple and can be enjoyed with music by talented duo Venus who will play romantic tunes from 9-11pm.

Call 17 360-000.

Venue: Flames/ WU Location: ART Rotana Spoil your beloved with a four-course set menu at Flames Restaurant or WU Restaurant and enjoy a 50 per cent discount on spa treatments and special room rates from February 11 to 14.

Call 16 000-111.

Venue: Various Location: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay From February 10 to 14 this landmark property will host a Valentine’s market in the lobby offering items such as pink macaroons, chocolate pralines, heart-shaped chocolate cakes decorated with fresh roses and many other sweet treats. Its iconic dining outlets including CUT, re Asian Cuisine and Blue Moon Lounge, by chef Wolfgang Puck offer set menus.

Call 17 115-000.

Venue: Soie/Golestan Location: Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Soie Chinese restaurant with a special set menu at

BD14.900++ with and BD 19.900++ without selected beerages per person. Ladies get roses and heart-shaped cookies. You can also head to Golestan Iranian restaurant for a lavish meal.

Call 17 533-533.

Venue: Flamingo Bar Location: Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Head down for a Havana-style love affair this Valentine’s Day at this beautiful property with a delicious five-course menu at Flamingo Bar featuring live Cuban entertainment. It is priced at BD62 net per couple.

Call 17 460-017. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Venue: Various Location: Gulf Hotel Celebrate your love at the hotel’s unique outlets with special set menus accompanied by a complimentary rose for the ladies and a secret parting gift that will truly make your Valentine’s Day a memorable one. The offer starts from BD23++.

Call 17 713-000.

Venue: Ruka Location: Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Share a special evening with your significant other from February 11 to 14 at this Japanese restaurant. There will be a special sharing set menu and a live DJ adding romantic vibes to your evening. Priced at BD39, it includes welcome pink bubbly for all guests, chocolates, roses and a gift voucher for BD19 per person.

Call 17 111-971.

Venue: Imari [Level 35] and Le Sauvage [Level 34] Location: The Domain Hotel & Spa Enjoy a decadent six-course set menu at Imari or a five-course set menu at Le Sauvage from February 11 to 14 for BD35++ without and BD45++ with selected beverages.

Call 16 000-000.

Venue: Mondo Location: Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa This chic Italian restaurant presents two separate menus for him and her. This special treat costs BD26 per person, including five courses, a glass of bubbly, flowers and a gift for ladies.

Call 17 53-1666.

Venue: Mezzanine Lounge Location: The Westin Bahrain City Centre Book one of the six private pods available and enjoy a private dinner for two in an intimate setting. Savour a selection of delightful treats with a 20 per cent discount on a range of premium grape.

Call 17 171-144.

Venue: Links Location: Royal Golf Club Enjoy a four-course dinner in this awardwinning restaurant for BD34 net per person.

The evening entails live romantic music, a sparkling drink on arrival and a rose for the lady.

Call 17 751-262.

Venue: Various Location: Crowne Plaza La Mosaique restaurant serves a special selection of food from February 12 to 14 or let Spices restaurant ignite your fire for BD12 net per person. At Waves restaurant, the catch of the day awaits you and your special date. At Harvesters Bar and Terrace, enjoy the ‘Queen of Hearts’ themed party, promising an eccentric, fun filled evening with many surprises on Valentine’s Day. Call 17 531-122.

Venue: H2O Lounge Location: Elite Grande Hotel Have a delicious dinner for two, overlooking Seef, at this beautiful poolside venue for BD30++ per couple. Look forward to a cosy atmosphere with refreshing musical entertainment, cocktail specials and a distinctive selection of bites.

Call 17 565-888.

Venue: Le Jardin Restaurant Location: Ramada Bahrain Hotel Sample the dishes from a special menu at the multi-cuisine restaurant, carefully prepared by executive chef Biju Mohamed. You can take the celebration to The Exchange English Pub after dinner.

Call 17 742-000.

Venue: Upstairs Downstairs Location: Adliya Savour a special five-course menu with your special someone at one of Bahrain’s most popular restaurants. On February 11, drop in for the ‘Valentines Vibe’ celebration and indulge in a menu that includes ‘Love Bites’ appetisers and ‘Love Potions, Let’s Drink’ shots.

Call 17 713-093.

Venue: Casa Mexicana Location: Adliya Enjoy a three-course set menu with a welcome drink for BD30++ per couple. The new resident singer-guitarist – with a special female guest artist – set the mood for your romantic evening.

Call 17 715-521.

Venue: Bushido Restaurant & Lounge Location: Seef This chic restaurant offers a special set menu for you and your beloved. Expect dishes such as Vietnamese spring rolls with yellowtail and truffle oil, valentine’s roll and choco symphony along with live music from pianist Clarita de Quiroz.

Call 17 583-555.

Venue: Trader Vic’s Location: Seef Spoil your valentine with a romantic dinner that includes a bottle of bubbly and a choice of dishes such as oven-smoked duck breast, panfried red grouper, veal tenderloin medallions and raspberry millefeuille at 49BD ++ per couple.

Call 17 586-555.

Venue: Brazil Grill Location: Adliya Brazil Grill is offering customers another reason to fall in love with this iconic restaurant this Valentine’s Day. On February 14, to mark the occasion, Brazil is offering its eat and drink as much as you like for BD45 per couple package.

Call 17 826-686. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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bystander

SPICE THINGS UP! Art Meets Dining

This

VALENTINE´S !

Lebanese artist Zeina El Alami de Robien held a solo exhibition called Nostalgia. The evening featured a taste of Provence cuisine and its grape varieties, at the Capital Club.

Mrs & Mr Rajab, Zeina & Stephane

Dayat

Valerie Montane with friends

Riffa / 7766333

Budaiya / 1759

0591

Adliya / 17246777

Birthday Bash

Hotline & DJ KLC

A Capricorn birthday bash was held at the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa’s nightclub venue, Ibrida.

DJ Regg One & DJ Santi

Exotic Buffet & Live Grill Station feb 14 th

D.Dwight & Ezzy Caldin, Marshand & Jay

Lanternsloungebahrain lanterns bahrain

Laresa & Simone

86 February 2016

Jenny & Cedric

Justin & Johanie

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningvalentine’sday BRAZIL GRILL/ BAMBU

A Night to Remember One of the Kingdom’s most beloved eateries is inviting couples to celebrate their love this Valentine’s Day with a special promotion.

Brazil Grill is offering customers another reason to fall in love with this iconic restaurant on Valentine’s Day. On February 14, to mark the occasion, Brazil is offering its eat and drink as much as you like for BD45 per couple.

This authentic, Brazilian-style steakhouse works around a very simple concept – fresh and fantastically flavourful food paired with selected beverages that keep coming until you’ve reached your heart’s content.

Once seated, the unique dining experience begins as the troop of Passadors (Carvers) move from table to table, offering select cuts of beef, lamb, prawns, chicken and sausages, all slow roasted over a charcoal barbeque and expertly carved at the table.

To further accompany this feast, dishes such as potato wedges, fried banana and artisan cheese breads are served to your table for you to enjoy.

Meanwhile, right around the corner, Bambu is celebrating in style too with an attractive Valentine’s Day package. For BD36 per couple, there is a special set menu with sparkling.

Chinese New Year takes place on February 11 and Bambu invites you to join in welcoming the Year Of The Monkey. For just BD20 per

head, you can indulge in unlimited food and selected beverages.

Whatever the occasion, both Brazil Grill and Bambu will ensure you have a night to remember.

Call Brazil on 17 826-686 and Bambu on 17 262-555.

Fall In Love All Over Again Amazing Food, Live Music & the Best Ambiance Enjoy the Romantic Valentines Day Dinner, set up with You in mind.

Welcome this year with All You Can Eat set menu and Unlimited Beverages on 11th Feb 2016 7 p.m. - midnight BD 20/- per head

ouple BD 45/c

Early booking will get a FREE festive T-shirt. CALL NOW!

For reservations and Information, Call 1782 6686 | www.brazilgrills.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Adliya, Kingdom of Bahrain | Tel: +973 1726 2555 www.bambubahrain.com

Bambu_Restaurant_Bahrain BambuRestaurantBahrain

February 2016 87

diningvalentine’sday

THE DOMAIN HOTEL AND SPA

City Slick This lifestyle hotel boasts a selection of fine-dining venues that not only offer out-of-thisworld cuisine, but breathtaking city views too.

88 February 2016

The bustling Diplomatic Area is home to the swanky Domain Hotel and Spa, a beacon that stands out in the Manama skyline with its glitzy façade. It has broken the barriers of traditional hospitality thanks to its unique design that is a combination of casual chic and contemporary sophistication.

The Domain Hotel and Spa invites guests to enjoy a meal at its classy fine-dining eateries; Imari and Le Sauvage. If there is someone you want to impress, this is the place to take them.

For an evening of sumptuous steaks and the finest cuts of meat, ride the elevator to level 34 and step into Le Sauvage. The floor-to-ceiling windows show off a spellbinding city view. This grill house’s open kitchen is quite the attraction, where chefs toil over the mouthwatering preparations.

For Valentine’s Day, Le Sauvage has planned something special. A refreshing aperitif and a preappetiser will be the precursor to the lavish fivecourse set menu that is available from February 11-14.

The restaurant offers the finest quality fare for BD35++ per couple without or BD45++ per couple with selected beverages.

Perched on the 35th floor of the hotel, Imari Japanese restaurant affords a spectacular sea view. The restaurant is a tribute to the shared maritime heritage of Bahrain and Japan and the soothing blue and white themed interior creates a relaxing ambiance.

Imari – the name for fine Japanese porcelain – is

also the name of the seaside town that produces it, but in Bahrain, the name is synonymous with a multisensory gastronomic experience.

This cool, cosmopolitan Japanese restaurant prides itself on its freshly crafted robatayaki, sushi, sashimi and little plates of Japanese tapas; izakaya. These light bites can be enjoyed in the lounge along with Japanese-inspired cocktails and an extensive collection of other beverages.

In keeping with its dynamic gastro-scene, Imari introduces aficionados of Japanese cuisine to Keiseki, a concept born in the land of the rising sun. The term refers to a traditional multi-course dining experience and typically comprises between seven and 14 courses. Imari offers a new Keiseki menu every Thursday, which is also the day the chefs receive exotic ingredients fresh from the markets of Japan.

If you fancy a taste of the Orient on Valentine’s Day, then Imari is your best bet. The six-course menu costs BD35++ per couple without or BD45++ per couple with selected beverages and will be available from February 11-14.

For a fitting prelude to a splendid evening, the Domain Privé will host Valentine’s high tea from February 11-14. At this art deco-esque lounge, you can see all of Manama at your feet while you enjoy a luxurious and romantic high tea at BD18++, inclusive of two glasses of bubbly.

Call 16-000 000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

Society Meeting

The Bahrain India Society held a lunch meeting at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa.

VK Thomas, Waleed Kanoo, Abdulla Juma, Zahra, Mohammed Dadabhai, Khalid Al Rumaihi, Khalid Al Zayani, Jamal Fakhroo, Abdul Jalil Al Ansari & Firas Fakhroo

Khalid & Abdulrahman Juma

Bindhu

Abigail

Mohammed & Faisal

Eldose

Sathar

Suleiman

Ram Singh

Vijesh

Balwinder

Mohammed Fakhroo & Sanjeev Kapoor

Ebrahim Al Ameer & Khalid Al Zayani

Jamaludin

Abdulwahid

Harish & Deepak

Yellow Chilli Launch Indian celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor launched a new menu and merchandise at The Yellow Chilli Bahrain in the presence of Mohammed Fakhro, chairman, SunCity Ventures and director of the Fakhro Group and Rodney Pearson, group general manager.

Rajni, Gideon, Sanjeev Kapoor & Rodney Ahmed, Khurshid & Farooq

Akhila, Sanjeev & Reena

90 February 2016

Mahipal & Ajay

Anu & Nada

Abhilash

Anwesha, Anupam & David

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningvalentine’sday CASA MEXICANA

Romance With a Mexican and Tex-Mex Twist This iconic restaurant in Adliya is dishing up a sensational selection of spicy fare and entertainment to ensure your Valentine’s Day is one to remember.

Known for its colourful presentations and delicious dishes prepared with a variety of spices, Mexican cuisine has a loyal following across the world and Casa Mexicana makes sure you needn’t travel the globe for an authentic meal.

The décor is almost as impressive as the food. The vibrant, sun-blushed interiors, cosy ambiance with brightly hued sombreros adorning the walls, romantic music and traditional flavours will transport you from the shores of Acapulco to the island of two seas – Bahrain.

Serving a combination of native Mexican & Tex-Mex dishes, the kitchen team is led by chef Romaldo. Hailing from Acapulco, Mexico, he prepares and serves an authentic Tex-Mex menu that includes favourites such as tacos, fajitas, burritos, refried beans, guacamole and

more. Both regulars and first-time guest are assured of a surprise fusion of treats from time to time as, chef Romaldo is renowned for his creative cooking.

For your Valentine’s Day date, Casa Mexicana has a special three-course set menu with a welcome drink for BD30++ per couple. The new resident singer-guitarist – with a special female guest artist – will set the mood with romantic music throughout the evening.

On regular days, Casa Mexicana offers deals like Margarita Madness every Sunday and Tuesday; where guests who buy a pitcher of margarita will receive half a pitcher for free.

For excellent fare and enjoyable live music, Casa Mexicana should be pencilled in on your dining calendar.

Call 17 715-521 / 39 301-066 or visit www.casamexicanabh.com.

Live entertainment w/ our resident singer guitarist and a special female guest

BD 30

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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diningvalentine’sday

AL AREEN PALACE & SPA

Regal Rendezvous This majestic property invites you and your loved one to enjoy the most romantic time of the year in its unparalleled environs.

92 February 2016

Located just 30 minutes from the city, Al Areen Palace & Spa encapsulates arabesque splendour and worldclass hospitality. Popular among foreign nationals and locals alike, this Valentine’s Day, drop in with your beloved for a truly regal getaway.

From February 11-14, the hotel offers specially designed packages made just for you and your loved one. You can book a luxurious villa for the weekend, starting from BD180++. The 78 villas each boast a private heated pool and Jacuzzi, traditional architecture; have a living room, one or more bedrooms, a dining area and a kitchenette, all around a central courtyard.

You can enjoy an intimate stay as the hotel staff can arrange meals, including a barbecue, to be set up inside the villa. If you do decide to head out, the property offers world-class restaurants serving a range of international and regional cuisine.

The stunning dining venues are ready to host your romantic tête-à-tête, presenting a special fivecourse menu at Keizo at BD22++ per person and for BD18++ per person at Saffron. For BD50, you can book the island gazebos and enjoy an intimate evening of Keizo’s romantic charm. The hotel can also decorate your private gazebo or villa for an additional charge of BD25.

The hotel is also home to an award-winning spa,

which will be offering signature couples’ candle massage with a scented rose bath at BD100++ (120mins). Considered one of the best wellness facilities in the world, its signature treatments include a variety of massages, body scrubs, wraps and facials. The spa boasts an extensive hydrothermal garden, which combines hydrotherapy with the intuitive touch of the therapists, resulting in an experience that leaves you completely relaxed.

Revamped and ready Rimal, Al Areen’s all-day-dining restaurant was recently reopened with a fresh new look. The outlet, known for its international flavours, now boasts a trendy and chic design. The upgraded breakfast buffet, with an open kitchen, is one of the many new features to look forward to.

Rimal has seating capacity for 70 people indoors and 12 outdoors. The restaurant can also be used as venue for private gatherings. Its open design makes it ideal for events like birthdays, team gatherings, luncheons and dinners. As part of the development for the restaurant, the food and beverage menu will soon also be upgraded along with a possible inclusion of brunch in the near future.

Call 17 845-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningvalentine’sday

THE K HOTEL

In the Mood for Love The landmark hotel gives you a chance to have a relaxing break with your special one during the weekend leading up to Valentine’s Day.

94 February 2016

This year, if you are in the mood for a little breather and some private time with your valentine, The K Hotel offers an intimate escape.

Having done all the planning for you, the state-ofthe-art property offers a ‘Suite and Sparkling Valentine’s Romance Package’ priced at BD110 per couple. The deal includes a one-night stay in a deluxe room and complimentary upgrade to a junior suite, LED candles and turn-down service with rose petals, chocolate-dipped strawberries, a fruit basket and bubbles.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city, experience the luxurious facilities and relax in plush environs.

The newly refurbished all-day-dining restaurant, Kolors (formerly known as Klouds), will be decorated with rose petals, balloons and candles for the occasion. A special treat, crafted by executive chef, Sylvester Rozario awaits you and is priced at BD30 per couple, including entertainment by the talented ‘Duo Venus’ who will play romantic tunes from 9pm-11pm.

Kolors sports a vibrant new look and feel. The décor resembles an artistic gallery with colourful blinds and bright coloured fixtures. Many surprises are in store in the menu as well; and the restaurant will be introducing weekly theme nights too.

At Kenza – the hotel’s Arabic restaurant and lounge – ladies will receive complimentary selected beverages from 7pm-9pm. Expect the same welcome at the K Lounge, the hotel’s American-style bar, where you can enjoy a variety of tantalising fare and drinks and listen to live music.

The K Hotel’s famous ‘Bigger Brunch’ will be served at Kolors, extending all the way into the hotel lobby.

The in-house band Duo Venus takes to the stage every night – and during the Friday brunch – to perform your favourite tunes.

Call 17 360-000 or email restaurants@thekhotel.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningvalentine’sday UPSTAIRS DOWNSTAIRS

A Taste of Love For an evening of great food, top entertainment and the whispering of sweet nothings, take your beloved to this iconic restaurant.

Audrey Hepburn once said: “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other”. And what better time to be reminded of this quote than now; when Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Although love fills the heart all through the year, this is an opportunity to make your partner feel extra special, loved and pampered.

Upstairs Downstairs invites you to cherish your love while feasting on acclaimed international cuisine in a cosy, sophisticated atmosphere. If you have already planned the perfect gift and the most beautiful flowers for your loved one, an intimate meal at this award-winning restaurant is the perfect way to celebrate your togetherness.

The restaurant has gone all out to ensure a perfectly romantic evening for you, including live music and a gourmet five-course set menu. At Upstairs Downstairs Restaurant, the finest ingredients in their freshest forms are used to create gastronomic handiworks that are the right blend of strong and subtle flavours, colours and textures to tease the senses and delight the palate.

Book your table for an evening that you and your significant other will remember for the years to come. Doors open at 7pm.

Call 17 713-093.

Pankaj & Khushboo’s Celebrations Family and friends gathered to celebrate the post-wedding reception of Pankaj & Khushboo at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa in Bahrain.

The cake-cutting

Vinod, Khushboo, Pankaj, Anshu, Dhruv & Hitesh

96 February 2016

Simran, Vashdev, Pankaj, Khushboo, Rajkumar, Sudha & Pushpa

The couple with their friends

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningvalentine’sday THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL, RESIDENCE & SPA

A One of a Kind Rendezvous This landmark hotel knows that men are from Mars and women are from Venus and has adapted its Valentine’s Day menu to match.

Dining outlets on the island are gearing up for Valentine’s Day; planning their courses and pairing them with the appropriate beverage. But Mondo, the Italian restaurant at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa has taken personalised service to a new level.

Nowhere else on the island will you be able to find one set menu for men and a different one, more attuned to their tastes, for ladies.

Director of food and drink, Petr Dubsky, spills the beans on this novel concept. “Each of the dishes on the five-course menu will be different for men and women at Mondo on Valentine’s Day,” he says. “For instance, meat will star on the main course for the gentlemen and a vegetarian preparation will be served to please the palates of the ladies.”

However, the restaurant is very flexible with its guests’ requirements and will be happy to serve men vegetarian fare as well. “If the lady fancies the man’s dish, we will happily serve it to her,” says Petr.

A glorious evening in the cozy quarters of Mondo is not complete without something to satiate the sweet tooth and, once again, the restaurant has something different in store for men and women. “The dessert for the ladies, will be a rich panna cotta, with a couple of additions to it; I cannot give away the secret right now,” Petr says with a twinkle in his eye. The men are in for a surprise as well; a decadent chocolate mousse that will have a hint of chilli in the aftertaste. “But

BBBF Lunch

again, if the couple wants to swap their desserts, we will be glad to oblige,” he says.

Executive chef Vito Fornelli has painstakingly planned the menu for the occasion with a mélange of locally sourced ingredients.

The doors at Mondo open from 5pm to 11pm on February 12, 13 and 14, so that those who want to call it a day early, can easily do so. Rest assured that romance is surely going to be in the air, with red flowers, candles and hearts being the theme of the evening.

This special menu costs BD26 per person, including the five courses, a glass of bubbly, flowers for ladies and a keepsake.

Call 17 531-666.

The Bahrain British Business Forum held a networking lunch at the Crowne Plaza Hotel with guest speaker Jayne Thompson of Farnborough International Airshow.

HE Simon Martin, standing centre, with members of the BBBF

Zee, Jalil & Robert

George, Raymond, Bernard, Claudia & Nabil

98 February 2016

Ali, Andrew & John

Estella & Yazan

Jason & Paul

Alison, Susan & Jill

www.bahrainthismonth.com

VALENTINE’S DAY An elegant Valentine’s Day at MONDO

Fall in love..

Set the mood for romance and culinary pleasures for you and your Valentine BD26 net per person

BLU WAY

When: 12th, 13th, 14th February 2016 Where: Mondo Restaurant Time: 5:00pm - 11:00pm

HOTELS DESIGNED TO SAY YES! Manama / Diplomatic Area, Manama, Bahrain T: +973 17531 666 info.diplomat@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/diplomathotel-bahrain

diningvalentine’sday BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Love is in The Air “If music be the food of love, play on,” said the bard; and, to indulge patrons on Valentine’s Day, this acclaimed restaurant plans to do just that.

Impress that special someone this Valentine’s Day in the romantically lit, sophisticated setting of Bushido restaurant. To tantalise your taste buds on this special occasion, it offers you a special set menu, which will include dishes such as Vietnamese spring rolls with yellowtail and truffle oil, valentine’s roll and choco symphony.

The highlight of the evening will be Clarita de Quiroz on the piano; her soulful vocals filling the air from 7.30pm until late into the night. The multi award-winning, classically trained pianist, vocalist and model will be gracing the staircase stage. Raised in Scotland with Filipino-European roots, Clarita’s music is said to be influenced by everyone from Nina Simone and Al Green, to The Roots, Angie Stone and Jill Scott.

Her affinity with the keys, as well as percussion, has fuelled a fire that has driven

100 February 2016

her musical direction as well as ignited a passion for singing. She has performed with artists such as Elton John, Roger Sanchez, Sheila Ferguson, Macy Gray, Kelly Roland, Sugababes, Akon and Martin Luther.

Let the music seductively serenade you, as you and your sweetheart savour gastronomic delights accompanied with unlimited bubbly throughout the evening.

The set menu will be available from February 11-17 and is priced at BD55++ per couple with unlimited bubbly throughout the evening.

Call 17 583-555.

Clarita de Quiroz

www.bahrainthismonth.com

TRADER VIC’S

Celebrating in Style This popular haunt is bustling with activity this month, marking special occasions from both the East and the West.

Trader Vic’s, a favourite dining destination for discerning foodies, is abuzz this February with celebrations for Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day. Chinese New Year will be brought in with great pomp at the venue. There will be a special Chinese menu, including delicious delights such as peach blossom duck, sesame chicken served in a honey-orange sauce and bok choy.

Diners will be treated to a Chinese lion dance, one of the most spectacular and mesmerising presentations you can ever witness, on February 4 and 5 starting at 8.30pm. A good performance is believed to bring luck and happiness; just what you need to start the New Year with.

Trader Vic’s also offers a romantic experience for couples this Valentine’s Day. Spoil your valentine with a romantic dinner that includes a

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Tanya Ivanova

bottle of bubbly and a choice of dishes such as oven-smoked duck breast, pan-fried red grouper, veal tenderloin medallions and raspberry millefeuille at BD49 ++ per couple.

The restaurant is set to make your experience all the more memorable with the velvet strains of the violin, played by modern violinist, Tanya Ivanova. Tanya began her musical training at the age of seven and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the National Academy of Music, Sofia, with honours. Having performed around the world, she brings a high level of energy and excitement.

Call 17 586-555.

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Anjali, Anil, Karina, Anupam & Anoop

The Nairs’ Mega Family Reunion Bash

Bharat, Manoj & Yogesh

Ashok, Ravi & Ajit

Sujatha, Gita, Karen, Renuka & Shalini

Karina and Anil Nair held the family’s annual reunion in Bahrain for the first time, at the couple’s residence.Close friends were a part of the celebration.

Ashok, Anjali & Brigadier Nair

Navneet, Meenakshi, Arpita, Vish & Ashish

Sanjeev, Vandana & Fowzia

Naveen & Mahmood

Sylvia & Lee

Ali

Dani

Arun, Sanjay & Radhika

Barbara, Georgia, Scarlett & George

102 February 2015

Susan, Anil, George, Karina & Rabbi

Harsha, Gita & Poonam

Sabby & Fowzia

Ravi & Leila

Abdul Elah, Mohammed, Navneet & George

David, Vanessa, Tina & Stewart

Anne, Pauline & Shanee

Shahbaz & Waseem

Clive, Mahmood & Sari

www.bahrainthismonth.com

diningvalentine’sday CAKE BOUTIQUE

Guilty Pleasures Made Healthy Indulge your sweet tooth without feeling guilty with delicious treats that are not just yummy but also healthy.

Continue your path to wellness with Cake Boutique’s Guilt-free Collection. The shop has launched a full range of sugar- and gluten-free products, made with all natural and organic ingredients to satisfy your sweet cravings and make you feel good.

The collection was created for people following a calorie restricted diet, those with food allergies or who simply love a healthier lifestyle. It was developed alongside integrative nutrition health coach Daniela Rosu, founder of Bahrain-based All in All Health Coaching.

“Sweets can be part of a balanced diet as long as you pay attention to portion sizes and choose healthier treats,” says Daniela.

“Cake Boutique’s new Guilt-free Collection is the best option for ready made healthier sweets for those who don’t want to make their treats at home. A few simple ways to include sweets in our diet in a healthy ways are: stock up on

treats or desserts that have 100 to 200 calories and contain nutritional benefits; rely on mother nature and use fruit as the base for dessert; and buy single serve portions so you only eat that once.”

Cake Boutique and Daniela believe this partnership will be very beneficial, taking it as a chance to teach people about healthy choices, especially a healthier way to satisfy sugar cravings.

Whether it is to stick to your New Year’s resolution or to enjoy sweets in spite of your food allergies, call Cake Boutique to order a gluten- or sugar-free version of your favourite

Daniela Rosu

cake. Alternately, try one of the new healthy recipes, such as the gluten-, dairy- and sugarfree apple cake, the nuts and seeds muffin or the gluten-free blueberry and almond muffin.

Cake Boutique is located at Seef Corner.

Call 17 552-253 for orders.

New Lotus

Cake

Delicious layers of moist chocolate sponge, Lotus cream and Lotus crunch, topped with chantilly, caramel and Lotus speculoos cookies.

+973 1755 2253 / 3600 8868 info@cakeboutiquebh.com www.bahrainthismonth.com

cakeboutiquebh

@cakeboutiquebah

www.cakeboutiquebh.com February 2016 103

DINING

MASALA MAGIC ANKITA MAMGAIN The face of modern Indian gastronomy around the world, this superstar chef shares his ‘Khana Khazana’ or culinary treasure at this popular restaurant.

A

midst an impenetrable crowd, a man wearing a stiff ‘bandhgala’ jacket and sporting a smile that stretched from ear to ear, stood behind brightly coloured ingredients, a frying pan and an electric stove. The instant he picked up the pan and turned the stove on, the entire crowd erupted into a deafening roar.

Sanjeev Kapoor is the undisputed rock star of Indian gastronomy. If Bollywood and cricket are the two main arteries of India, food is the oxygen and Sanjeev has provided its steady supply for the past two decades. In millions of homes, even today, people sit glued to their TV screens to jot down the three recipes he shares every weekday.

With around 10 million copies of his cookbooks sold, 25 million hits a month on his website and a 24-hour TV channel of his own, dedicated to food, he is perhaps the biggest TV chef in the world. www.bahrainthismonth.com

Bahrain gets a taste of his signature dishes at The Yellow Chilli in Seef Mall, a casual dining eatery, and a link in his chain of more than 60 international restaurants.

“The Yellow Chilli Bahrain was our first outlet in the GCC and is therefore really special to us,” Sanjeev tells a rhapsodic crowd while unveiling the restaurant’s new menu.

The name of the restaurant is a tribute to the town where he spent a considerable part of his life growing up. “They use a special chilli there that’s yellow in colour and has a very distinct flavour,” he says. “It’s typical, yet unique and that’s what our restaurant and food is all about as well.”

My friend and I went to try out some of the classic and new dishes at the famous eatery.

It’s hard to ignore the bright yellow signage, shouting out from afar. The sunny demeanour is reflected in the ambience of the restaurant and the faces that greet you as well.

ALSO THIS MONTH: 108 AUTHENTIC ASIAN 112 DINING HAPPENINGS

Sanjeev describes Indian cooking as “in-your-face food,” with little room for subtlety. A prime example of this is ‘chaat’ a lip-smacking concoction of loud and fiery flavours, traditionally sold on street corners.

We tried its haute version as a ‘warm up’ snack. Finally my search for a true to taste Delhi chaat in Bahrain has come to an end.

Starters included Sanjeev’s signature Tandoori basil prawns and chana jor garam tikki, two brilliant dishes which exemplify the chef’s insane creativity. For the main course we tried the new creamy chicken ludhianvi with assorted breads and ended the meal with a delightful dessert, an innovative take on the famous gulab jamun stuffed with rose preserve or ‘gulkand’.

The Yellow Chilli gives you a chance to sample some of Sanjeev’s famous recipes, however, that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to showcasing what this talented chef can do.

February 2016 105

dining TGI FRIDAY’S

Smokin’ Good This popular franchise offers a brand new selection of lip-smacking Tex-Mex dishes, much to the delight of its loyal customers.

A world-famous franchise, TGI Friday’s is one of the most popular places to enjoy a casual dining experience. It’s known to regularly introduce new dishes and promotions and keeps offering something fresh to its customers; the latest addition being the ‘Wood Smoked Plates’.

Wood Smoked Shrimp: Enjoy tender grilled shrimp cooked to perfection over an open flame and smoked on apple-soaked hickory planks. This is served with your choice of delicious sides.

Wood Smoked Salmon: This delightful dish comprises a hickory-smoked salmon filet, perfectly seasoned and flame grilled. The flavourful fish is served with savoury herb butter, mashed potatoes and broccoli.

Wood Smoked Ribs: These are flame-grilled,

106 February 2016

beef short ribs that are so tender the meat just falls of the bone. Smoked on apple-soaked hickory wood planks and slathered in tangy barbeque sauce, they are served with creamy mashed potatoes and broccoli.

Wood Smoked Salmon

Wood Smoked Shrimp

Wood Smoked Chicken: Expect a perfectly seasoned chicken breast, flame grilled and smoked on apple soaked hickory wood, served with flavoursome herb butter, mashed potatoes and broccoli.

Wood Smoked Steak: This is a sizzling 12-ounce New York strip smoked over appleinfused wood and cooked as per your liking.

Paired with mashed potatoes and broccoli, this has become one of the hottest selling items on the restaurant’s menu.

Bring your dining experience to a sweet end with the new Chocolate Adventure Trio.

Call 17 262-998.

Chocolate Adventure Trio

www.bahrainthismonth.com

CRUST & CREMA

The True Taste Offering a range of speciality coffees, this café caters to the discerning tastes of its loyal and increasingly expanding customer base.

Crust & Crema is a Third Wave café and bakery that endeavours to develop a new kind of coffee culture in today’s café-saturated market.

The Third Wave is a global coffee movement that involves improvements at all stages of production. This includes improving plant cultivation, harvesting, and processing, developing stronger relationships between growers, traders and roasters to higher quality roasting, at times called ‘micro roasting’ to skilled brewing.

Established in July 2015, it is Bahrain’s first specialty café, gourmet bakery and in-house coffee roastery. The café boasts a unique rustic yet modern ambience, ideal for sitting down, relaxing and sipping your drink.

Crust & Crema uses a wide variety of global green coffee beans to produce its beverages as well as sourcing quality bakery ingredients

from Europe for its gourmet desserts, pastries and artisanal breads.

The coffee bar brews the freshest cups of special blends or single origin beans, both in the espresso machine or by manual brewing methods. At the moment, you can sample special beans from Jamaica and Hawaii, which are considered to be some of the best in the world.

To take your love of coffee further, Crust & Crema displays merchandise and fresh coffee for sale. The café will be opening its second outlet in Galleria Mall at the end of February.

Call 17 214-155.

• • • •

• • • •

specialty coffees single origin beans locally roasted gourmet bakery

specialty coffees single origin beans locally roasted gourmet bakery

a true coffee experience SAAR AVENUE OPP. SAAR CINEMA www.bahrainthismonth.com

17214155 February 2016 107

dining

NU ASIA

Authentic Asian Thanks to its expansive array of Asian fare and relaxing ambience, this restaurant is a firm favourite with diners across the Kingdom.

108 February 2016

With branches in Seef, Budaiya, Juffair and Isa Town, Nu Asia is ever popular among those seeking quality Asian food, at reasonable prices.

The franchise opened its doors to Bahrain in 2008, offering visitors a casual yet high-end dining experience set in a vibrant atmosphere. As the first ‘pan-Asian’ restaurant in Bahrain, Nu Asia serves an authentic selection of Chinese, Japanese, Indian and Thai cuisines.

Some of the most popular items on the menu include Indian dishes such as Nu Asia chicken curry and lamb shank masala as well as Thai classics such as satay sticks and Thai green curry. If Japanese is more your thing, why not try the large selection of handrolled sushi, maki and nigiri among other delicacies.

The Chinese menu is also packed with hot sellers such as Kung Pao chicken and chili beef.

Apart from the multi-cuisine pan-Asian menu, Nu Asia also prides itself on its extensive selection of fresh drinks such as the Asian Mojito and the Pomegranate Crush. Also available are freshly brewed loose-leaf teas from around the world, including favourites such as white peony, authentic Thai jasmine and red oolong.

Nu Asia pairs the finest, hand-picked produce from around the Asian continent with highly experienced chefs and kitchen staff, resulting in flavours that are signature to the restaurant.

The inviting atmosphere is unmistakable in all the branches and is complimented by the sounds of relaxing lounge music, carefully chosen to enhance the ambience.

Nu Asia is open for lunch and dinner from noon to midnight through all four branches. The chain also offers take-away and home delivery in addition to catering and banquet services, which may include live grilling and cooking stations.

Nu Asia also has its own dedicated delivery telephone service and is available on popular webbased ordering system talabat.com. In addition to the great food, dining at Nu Asia has other advantages too as you gain points under the Ahlan Rewards loyalty programme that entails a host of benefits.

Call 17 434-344 (delivery). www.bahrainthismonth.com

Rediscover our classic dishes and some delectable new additions, prepared in lighter and leaner cooking styles that deliver the same taste you’ve come to appreciate over the years, without most of the calories. "Light" Mixed Grill: 483Kcal

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Shanjida, Mehdi, Radhia & Abrar

Colour Me Bahrain Run Bahrain Road Runners organised the first Colour Me Bahrain Run and street food market at the Amwaj Marina, Amwaj Islands.

Participants were covered in colour at the finish line

Lucy, Yasmeena & Marwa

HE William Roebuck & Ann

Owen, Quinti & Michelle

Abbas & Zainab

Yara, Sumaya & Wasan

Osama, Mohammed & Ebrahim

Huda & Ali

Batelco Launch Batelco launched a new television experience at a reception held at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa. Muna Al Hashemi, Ed Sawady & Ammar

Mona & Sawsan

Mohammed & Aseel

110 February 2016

Madeleine & Randa

Abdulla & Abdulla

Nasreen, Amal & Zainab

Zahra

Deena

www.bahrainthismonth.com

dininghappenings

GRUB STREET From food festivals to new menus and chefs, there’s much to look forward to in the culinary district this month.

TRIP TO THE FRENCH RIVIERA From February 1-7, Plums restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa is where you need to be to sample haute treats from the French Riviera. The special event offers a unique a la carte menu created by one of the hotel’s most talented chefs, Yann Bernard Lejard, reflecting traditional dishes from Cannes to Monte Carlo.

Among the new items on the seasonal menu are mini stuffed Mediterranean vegetables accompanied by foie gras and zucchini coulis. For the main course, chef Yann recommends the seafood platter, which combines oysters, mussels, clams, shrimps and

garlic mayonnaise. Another highlight is the bouillabaisse prepared with the local catch of the day, rouille sauce, croutons and emmental cheese.

To round up your French Riviera experience, try the roasted pineapple with vanilla, fresh fruit taboulé and mango sorbet. As the event is happening during the first GCC Cancer Awareness Week, the Plums team is partnering up with Bahrain Cancer Society for its “Bon Appétit for Hope” programme, and will be collecting BD1 per person per bill to support the Bahrain Cancer Society fund.

Call 17 580-000.

CULINARY FORTRESS

CARTE REVAMP Gulf Hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Royal Thai, has a new man in the kitchen – Thai master chef Chaiyaphat. Come down to this grand pagoda – located in the hotel’s tropical gardens – that now offers a new menu, hand-crafted by the talented chef and his team.

Call 17 746-421.

While the word Kasbah or Al Qasaba literally means an ancient city fortress with high walls, Kasbah Restaurant and Lounge is a contemporary eatery sporting an Arabesque ambience. It offers authentic Middle Eastern hospitality and great gastronomy with a fresh new take.

Located at the Platinum Tower in the busy Seef area, Kasbah provides all-day dining. Open from 8am-1am, the venue offers traditional and international breakfast options, a variety of business lunch and dinner dishes and is an ideal retreat to end your day at.

Its menu is vast and boasts a number of signature food and drink offerings. While the theme of the restaurant is modern Arabesque, the menu is international and offers true value to its customers. Thanks to the reasonable prices, dining out at Kasbah is all about relaxation and comfort.

112 February 2016

A ZESTY TURN The Yellow Lemon restaurant in Zinj, now under a new management, welcomes you with a brand new menu and a fresh vibe. The new chef and his team have introduced a number of Indian dishes and will soon be adding delicacies from the Far East to the menu as well. The party hall upstairs has been refurbished and is an ideal spot to host casual get-togethers and parties. Take advantage of the ongoing 20 per cent discount on dine in, take away and delivery orders.

Call 17 813-811.

When? February 1-7 Event? Food Festival Venue? Plums, The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain Come down to sample some exquisite creations from the French Riviera.

E Call 17 580-000.

When? February 1-12 Event? Chinese New Year celebrations Venue? China Garden, Gulf Hotel Savour the traditional lucky dishes to mark the start of the Year of the Monkey.

E Call 17 713-000.

When? February 1-18 Event? Japanese National Day Venue? Sato, Gulf Hotel Celebrate with Chef Naotaka’s newest culinary delight “Omoide Moriawase”.

E Call 17 746-421.

When? February 7 and 8 Event? Chinese New Year celebrations Venue? Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Enjoy a special set menu to celebrate the Year of the Monkey for BD14.900++ and BD19.900++.

E Call 17 533-533.

When? February 8 Event? Chinese New Year celebrations Venue? La Mosaique, Crowne Plaza Bahrain Open a lucky envelope to see your prize or be the one to enjoy buffet for free.

E Call 17 531-122.

When? February 17 Event? Chinese New Year celebrations Venue? re Asian Cuisine, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Indulge in a decadent threecourse menu at this Wolfgang Puck restaurant.

E Call 17 115-046.

When? Throughout February Event? New Menu Venue? Royal Thai, Gulf Hotel Try out the newly introduced innovative dishes at this beautiful restaurant.

E Call 17 746-421.

When? Throughout February Event? Special promotion Venue? The Yellow Lemon Sample the eatery’s new additions to the menu and avail a 20 perc ent discount.

E Call 17 813-811.

When? Throughout February Event? Food promotion Venue? Imari, The Domain Hotel & Spa Come down to sample a fresh Keisaki menu every Thursday.

E Call 16 000-000. www.bahrainthismonth.com

N E W C H E F N E W M E N U N E W BRUNCH

Come try our delicious new brunch every Friday to Saturday from 12:30pm to 4pm 12.5BD++

Unlimited Food, Juices, & Soft Drinks

17.5BD++

Unlimited Food & Selected Alcoholic Beverages

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NYE at Domain

The Domain Hotel & spa hosted a New Year’s Eve celebration.

Hamad and friends

Natalie, Liz & Cris

Nancy & Simon

Mike & Vettie

Prince, Ahmed & Andrea

Niosban & Jumana

Matthew, Derick & Lewy

Mich & Ross

Jann, Sherry & Jan

NYE at Four Seasons The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay hosted a New Year’s Eve Party at the Azure poolside.

Andrea, Greg, Mohammed & Barakat

David, Muheed, Zayon, Paul & Christy

NYE at Amwaj

A New Year’s party was hosted at Amwaj Sea Loft featuring DJ Krazy Kevin.

Jack, Charlie & Krazy Kevin

Francis, Carmen, Charlaine & Chirag

114 February 2015

Derrick, Anita & Serena

Jenny & Brian

Michaela, Cora & Ana

Lisa & Denzil

Pujita, Tanvi & Amjed

Shalini & Oswald

www.bahrainthismonth.com

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NYE at Ibrida

Kevin & Dawn

Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa hosted a New Years Eve bash at its nightclub venue, Ibrida.

Carlos, Nelvin & Daniel

Elena & Aziz

Shahida, Aziz & Jameela

Daniela, Watson, Doon & Ruth

Leon & friends

Mike & Sophie

Yaseen & Hameed

Batoul & Asma

Komal, Anurag & Ritika

Sam & Divya

VJ MP3 & Beat

Ali & Mohammed

Ali & Ahmed

Nomi & Ghazal

NYE at Club XS Club XS at Ramee Rose Hotel hosted a Masquerade Ball New Year’s party featuring entertainment from its resident and local DJs. DJ Jackson & his girlfriend

Sayed, Salman & Bill

Rod, Sara, Dili & Dilma

NYE at Bushido Bushido restaurant and lounge hosted a New Year’s Eve celebration featuring Ricardo Ralph Lopez “The Art of Entertainment” as The Mirror Man and Gravity Indoor Skydiving.

The Mirror Man

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Luisa, Olivia & Grace

Gemma & Alex

Sahar & Jannel

February 2015 115

bystander

John & Jill

Graeme, Martin & Fiona

Jaffer, Debbie & Claus

New Years Celebration Upstairs Downstairs restaurant hosted a New Year’s eve gala dinner featuring live music from Alex Banks, from the UK, and a DJ. Alex Salman & Christy

Ken, Steph & Jeremy

Colette & Brian

Sergio & Marise

Joe, Michel & Raja

Bernard & Eileen

Nigel & Lavinia

Alex, Paige & Pauline

Phil & Rachel

Eduard, Felicia & Petr

NYE at Diplomat The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa hosted a New Year’s Eve party with entertainment from a DJ and The Black Notes band.

Simonetta, Florencia & Adriana

Alissa, Mia & Laura

116 February 2015

Sophie, HE Simon Martin & Patricia

Pamela & Grayson

Ingo & Barbara

Alexia, Eliazl & Cristina

Kris & Kaye

Trevor & Cheryl

www.bahrainthismonth.com

What’s New Edited by Apple Sharma

Blissful Bouquets Bath & Body Works launches its most cheerful fragrance yet – Be Joyful. Bursting with happiness, the scent is a blend of sparkling clementine, golden mango and frosted jasmine.

Wrapped in perfect packaging, it reminds your loved ones of just how special they are.

Available at Bath & Body Works in Seef Mall, City Centre Bahrain and Seef Mall Muharraq.

Gleaming Gems Women who adore glamour will love this stunning collection from Esprit. The jewellery works beautifully together, comprising necklace and earrings in a sumptuous drop shape and an opulent ring. With elegantly sweeping lines, soft shapes and warm rose gold, these pieces hug the skin and lend that final touch of sensual elegance.

Available at all A La Mode outlets.

A Distinctive Scent The Davidoff Agar Blend exudes a timeless and deeply masculine elegance. Conceived as a bridge between Western and Eastern cultures, this sophisticated scent has soft and balsamic woody notes – a blend of cinnamon leaves, black pepper, agarwood and Guaiac wood oil.

Available at Jashanmal in Al Aali Mall.

Dazzle With Style Glimmer and shine with Ralph Lauren’s bedazzling jewellery and watches this season.

From the uber stylish Diamond Link watch, bracelet and necklace, to romantic chandelier earrings, woven gold bracelets and chunky chains, these pieces are sure to make you the talk of the town.

Available at Ralph Lauren in City Centre Bahrain.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Forever Starts Now Calvin Klein’s Eternity Now for men and women captures the thrill and raw emotion of new love. The women’s fragrance bursts with freshness as it blends juicy nectarine, succulent lychee and quince sorbet. The men’s scent is exhilarating, exotic and masculine, with unexpected spicy ginger, refreshing coconut water and star anise.

Available at all leading perfumeries and retail outlets.

February 2016 117

marketplace CUCINA ITALIANA

Claim the Crown This restaurant calls on all kitchen kings and queens to gain culinary recognition on the island through its famous Masterchef cooking competition.

The award-winning Cucina Italiana, located in Juffair, has successfully launched the third season of its widely popular amateur cooking competition, where 10 contestants qualify for the semi finals round over five heats. The last elimination heat will be taking place on February 2. The semi finals will be held on February 6 and 7.

The semi finals are designed to push the competitors to their culinary limits; from the main course challenge in the elimination round to the difficult “Taste it Then Make” it task.

Each of the contestants will have to prove their potential in the kitchen every step of the way, if they want to make it to the final round.

The last four competitors must face off in the most taxing exercise as they rush to produce a three-course meal in just 90 minutes. Each finalist must whip up a starter, main course and dessert in the allotted time. Their creations will all then be critiqued by the final panel of judges.

The winner of this culinary battle will be

crowned Bahrain’s Masterchef 2016 and will win a host of prizes, including a return flight to Italy (sponsored by Magnum Travels), and, of course, the prestige of having one of their final dishes on Cucina’s menu all throughout 2016.

The competition commences at 6pm at Cucina Italiana located at the Al Safir Hotel in Juffair.

Call 17 001-317.

Mazin Juma & Shaikh Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Khalifa

Shakespeare Lives

A Shakespeare Lives reception was held at the residence of the British Council director, to welcome the cast and crew of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre who visited Bahrain as part of their Hamlet two-year world tour.

HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador, standing centre, Alan Rutt, British Council’s director, left from centre, with the cast and crew

Maryam & Hayat

festive carnival was held at the Batelco staff Batelco Carnival Acenter in Hamala.

Jana, Habiba, Hamra & Yousif

118 February 2016

Alaya & Selena

Devi, Veda & Lakshmi

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace AMBASSADOR STORES

Serious Watches for Serious Sports

Adventure sports require precision and this renowned watchmaker delivers that and more with its innovative engineering and expertise.

120 February 2016

For true watchmakers, the greatest challenge of all is to create watches that ensure safety and success for adventure sports lovers, whether on land, at sea or in the sky.

Since making its first divers’ watch in 1965, Seiko has pushed the limits of sports watch engineering to create timepieces with truly professional specifications. Now, Seiko brings together all its watch expertise into one collection – Prospex.

In 1964, Seiko announced itself on the world stage of sports with a whole new generation of devices that set a new global standard. The multi-sport suite of timing, scoring and display systems comprised no fewer than 1,278 devices in all, including one of the first ever portable quartz devices and a new generation of hand held stopwatches that offered unrivalled precision.

The challenge of sports has always inspired Seiko to create new materials, functions and display systems to serve the needs of true enthusiasts worldwide.

Prospex is the latest expression of this tradition.

Adventure activities know no boundaries and Prospex offers a range of watches that meet the challenge of delivering precision and reliability in even the most adverse conditions. Launched internationally at Baselworld 2014, Prospex has already taken its place at the very centre of Seiko’s collection, built to perform and endure the stresses in any medium.

The new land sports model is perfect for mountaineering and adventuring of all kinds. The Kinetic GMT movement offers one-second-a-day precision and the security of never needing a battery change. The cushion-shaped case is robust and allows for easy use of the rotating bezel, which carries a compass for secure and rapid orientation.

Half a century on from making the first divers’ watch, Seiko’s list of achievements in this most challenging of arenas for watchmakers is long and distinguished. From the first use of a titanium case, the invention of the accordion-style strap and the two layer case, to the design of dial markers and hands of unparalleled legibility, Seiko has been a pioneer in the field. In fact, the ISO 6425 standard was developed with Seiko’s own standard as its base!

Today, Seiko’s divers’ watches are the world’s benchmark for excellence. Numerous times, these impressive timepieces have been chosen by adventurers facing the challenges of the world’s most harsh environments.

Two new timepieces in the Marinemaster series, long renowned for the security and precision that the professionals require, embody the very best of Seiko’s 50 years of experience in serving the needs of divers and push back the boundaries of watch technology.

To experience first-hand the exciting range of Seiko Prospex watches, visit the Ambassador Stores showroom, located near Bab Al Bahrain, Manama.

Ambassador Stores, the exclusive authorised distributor for Seiko watches, has always been recognised for providing high performance products with excellent value for money.

Call 17 225-513 or visit www.seikowatches.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

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MOSTLY BUSINESS

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities in collaboration with the Arab Regional Center for World Heritage hosted a press briefing to announce the international conference ‘Investing in Culture: Social & Business Impact.’

Jawad Business Group Restaurant Division held its Forge Forward conference at the Dragon Hotel, Amwaj.

Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, Acting Chief Executive of the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, unveiled the calendar of events for the ‘Manama Gulf Capital of Tourism 2016’. Ahmed Al Nemah, Acting Undersecretary, Civil Aviation Affairs, Ministry of Transportation & Telecommunications, Nawaf Al Kooheji, Shop Bahrain’s director, Sherif Al Mahdy, commercial director, Bahrain International Circuit and Jerad Bachar, executive director, Tourism and Leisure, Bahrain Economic Development Board, were on the panel.

The Bahrain Gaming Experience 2016 was launched under the patronage of HE Zayed Alzayani, Industry and Commerce Minister, at Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Dar Al Teeb and Tricom Group launched the new fragrance, Jerusalem, under the patronage of the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO), in the presence of Dr Mustafa Al Sayed, secretary general, RCO.

Troufa Bread and Chocolates opened at the Alraya Mall in Juffair.

An international school committed to offering an exceptional education • A college preparatory school committed to implementing the best educational practices from around the world.

• Outstanding academic resources and athletic facilities.

• An IB Diploma Program designed to prepare students for the best universities throughout the world.

• Students use individual learning devices in the classrooms in creative and collaborative ways.

• An extensive array of extra curricular activities that encompass academics, the arts and sports.

RIFFA VIEWS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IS NOW ACCEPTING ADMISSIONS FOR NURSERY - GRADE 12 FOR THE 2016 - 2017 SCHOOL YEAR.

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For admission enquiries, please contact: (+973) 1656-5004/1656-5000 or Email: admissions@rvis.edu.bh RVIS website: www.rvis.edu.bh Scan our QR Code to receive the RVIS Admission Forms www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2016 121

marketplace

AMA SPORTS

Get Gym Ready!

Whether you’re in the fitness industry or a gym fanatic, this island sports company has everything to meet your needs.

Keeping fit this year seems to be on everyone’s resolution list. Technogym is here to the rescue, offering you the latest technological advancements and equipment.

Founded in 1983 in Italy, by Nerio Alessandri, Technogym, The Wellness Company, promotes wellbeing in everything it does and is the world’s leading sports equipment provider in the fitness field.

AMA Sports, a division of Ahmed Mansoor Al A’Ali, has been the exclusive distributor for Technogym in the Kingdom since 1995. Whether it is gym equipment for your home, office or work, AMA Sports is able to provide the best solution tailored to your individual needs. It is also the only supplier to offer full maintenance support through its team of highly skilled technicians. The company recently opened a new showroom in Adliya, located on Sheikh Isa Avenue, where it showcases a whole range of products. The experienced sales team is on hand to offer advice and recommendations on suitable solutions for all your specific needs. The team is also available for site visits. Additionally, AMA Sports has an experienced designer that can put together layouts and 3D renderings to help its customers visualise what their new fitness studio will look like.

All you running enthusiasts rejoice, as Technogym, in conjunction with AMA Sports, has just launched its fantastic new running machine for home use in the Bahrain market.

The MYRUN TECHNOGYM is designed to offer the ultimate running experience, with personalised training programmes as well as instant running technique feedback. It is the first solution for running that integrates a treadmill and a native app that syncs to your tablet, improving the way you run. All you have to do is simply download the MyRun app to your tablet, position the device in the console and start your journey to becoming a better runner. You can also run to the beat as a music function chooses the best songs suited to the rhythm of your action, making MYRUN TECHNOGYM the first music interactive treadmill ever!

“Whatever your needs, whether it is personal or for commercial use, we are here to assist you in delivering a world-class experience,” says a company spokesperson.

“Please contact our sales team or just pop in to our showroom for assistance and we look forward to welcoming you to the world of Technogym.”

The showroom is open from 10am-7pm, Saturday to Thursday. Contact the sales team to book a personal demonstration and get a quote.

Call 17 717-786 or email technogym.bahrain@al-aali.com.

122 February 2016

www.bahrainthismonth.com

bystander

OTHER EVENTS

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held a blood donation drive at the Al Manama Ballroom in coordination with Salmaniya Medical Complex.

Al Kindi Specialised Hospital celebrated its seventh anniversary at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel under the patronage of HE Lt General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, president of the Supreme Council.

Bahrain Superbike Championship held a press conference at the Westin City Centre Bahrain, to announce the first motorcycle championship in the Kingdom.

HE Dr Dhafer Alumran held a get together dinner for friends at Roma restaurant.

Above, from left, George, Gigi, Sameera, Adel, Dr Jihan, HE Dr Dhafer, HE Joonha Yu, Meeji, HE Alfred Simms-Protz & Parween.

City Centre Bahrain held its annual charity drive ‘Lose for a Cause’ in support of the obesity awareness campaign organised by Bahrain Defence Force Military Hospital.

HE Shaikh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa and HE Simon Martin, British Ambassador, along with his wife Sophie and mother, Patricia, visited Shri Krishna Hindu Temple, managed by the Thattai (Bhatia) Hindu Community (THC). They were welcomed by Sushil Muljimal, Hon chairman, Bhagwan Asarpota, Hon vice chairman, Mahesh Bhatia, Hon secretary. Also present were other executive committee members of THC, Shastri Vijay Kumar, Nabeel Ajoor, Bahraini businessman and other members of the Bhatia community.

Isa Kanoo, left, presents an Apple MacBook Air© to Abdulla Kuwaitan, the winner of the Lexus RX social media competition.

124 February 2015

Moda Mall announced the first three weekly draw winners of its ‘Light Up The Season’ shop and win promotion

Pongal, a Tamil Harvest Festival, was celebrated by families at the Al Hidaya compound.

The Rotary Club of Adliya held a meeting to welcome Mohammed Al Haddad, president of Rotaract Club of Bahrain and his team who spoke about its plans and activities for the year.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

marketplace BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Battle of the Bulge Dr Uday Singh Dadhwal explains the options for weight loss surgery.

Obesity has become a worldwide epidemic in both advanced and developing nations across all age groups. Severe obesity is increasing more quickly than simple obesity and severely obese people are more likely to develop metabolic complications.

Obesity surgery is also gaining popularity worldwide due to its efficacy in sustained

weight reduction. It is based on two principles; restrictive procedures which limit food intake and procedures that reduce absorption of food or calories.

Vertical banded gastroplasty sees a small pouch created from the stomach at its uppermost part just below the oesophagus. It restricts the entry of food and weight loss occurs due to reduced calorie intake.

A laparoscopic adjustable gastric band is an inflatable band placed at the upper part of stomach through surgery. The band is filled with saline and is calibrated to restrict food intake bringing about weight control.

Sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive surgery in which a sleeve converts the stomach into a tube, like the oesophagus, reducing its capacity to about 100ml. This also removes the mechanism which secretes the hunger hormone, resulting in reduction of appetite.

Gastric bypass surgery involves the creation of a small pouch from the upper part of stomach with a capacity of 15-20ml. The small intestine is divided and its end attached to the

Dr Uday Singh Dadhwal

pouch. The food that enters the stomach therefore bypasses the upper intestine reducing the surface area over which nutrients are absorbed.

Biliopancreatic diversion and duodenal switch: This surgery results in a reduced absorption of nutrients. The intestine is divided and one part is connected to the upper half of the stomach. The upper part of the small intestine is joined with the lower part closer to the terminal ileum and this procedure is modified by doing sleeve resection of the stomach.

Call 17 812-080.

JFC Bahrain Amwaj is located

Programs

in Amwaj business park.

Personal Training - Insanity - Crossfit - Triathlon Beach workout - Group Workout

Facilities Crossfit Box – Gym For more info 33002592 - 7707220 @jfcbahrain www.jfcbahrain.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Open from Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm February 2016 125

marketplace ASIA JEWELLERS

A New Force of Attraction

The full moon has been steeped in mystery and legend since the beginning of time. Now the moon exerts a new magnetic power in this series of exceptional watches.

One of the world’s leading brands in the luxury watch segment, the Swiss manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen crafts the finest masterpieces of haute horlogerie, combining supreme precision with exclusive design.

The Portugieser Perpetual Calendar has two versions in the 2015 anniversary collection, with double and single moons. Their nine functions are powered by in-house movements from the IWC 52000-calibre family. With a number of modest design changes, the Reference 5034 now more closely resembles the Portugieser family and conveys an altogether more discreet and elegant impression.

It is undisputed that the moon’s gravitational pull controls the tides and thus exerts a real influence on the earth and our lives. In the revamped model of the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar with a double moon (Ref. 5034), the moon phase display is not only the visual centrepiece of the dial, it is also the technical highlight of a premium timepiece which displays supreme technical skill.

The perpetual moon phase display is one of Schaffhausen’s most spectacular in-house designs, primarily for use of a level of precision unique in a mechanical wristwatch. It takes the 126 February 2016

moon 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and three seconds to orbit the earth. Generations of watchmakers have been frustrated by the task of translating these figures into a moon phase display using only the size and number of wheels in a train. Conventional moon phase displays in mechanical wristwatches need to be corrected at relatively short intervals. Kurt Klaus, the master watchmaker at IWC who

designed the company’s first perpetual calendar succeeded, in the mid-1980s, in reducing the deviation of the mini-moon of the display, compared to the moon’s actual orbit, to just one day in 122 years. It was a masterstroke surpassed only in 2003 with the introduction of the large 5000 calibre. Thanks to its considerable size, the calibre’s larger moon phase wheels have a higher transmission ratio.

As a result, the display will need to be corrected by one day only after 577.5 years!

In the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar with the double moon (Ref. 5034), the moon phase and its mirror image show the state of the moon in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

This ingenious achievement was also the work of IWC’s engineers, who have transformed the subdial with the double moon display into a star-studded night sky the same colour as the large dial. The moon and stars appear to hover in infinite space, giving owners south of the equator a view of the moon phase that corresponds to the way they see it.

Mechanically programmed, the calendar takes into account the different lengths of the months and even the leap years.

IWC timepieces are available in Bahrain at Asia Jewellers.

Call 17 535-344 or visit www.asiajewellers.com.

FEATURES Mechanical movement. Power reserve display. Perpetual calendar with displays for the date, day, month, year in four digits and perpetual moon phase for the northern and southern hemispheres. Small hacking seconds. Glucydur beryllium alloy indexless balance with highprecision adjustment screws on balance rim. Breguet spring. See-through sapphire-glass back. Rotor made of 18-carat red gold.

MOVEMENT IWC-manufactured calibre 52615 Frequency 28,800 A/h / 4 Hz Jewels 54 Power reserve 7 days (168 h) Winding automatic WATCH Materials Ref. IW503401: case in 18-carat white gold, midnight blue dial,

black alligator leather strap by Santoni, folding clasp in

18-carat white gold Glass Sapphire, arched edge, antireflective coating on both sides Water-resistant 3 bar Diameter 44.2 mm Case height 15.3 mm www.bahrainthismonth.com

ASIA JEWELLERS

A Poetic Vision of Hope

Renowned for its precious charms, this brand’s special edition Charms watch for the Middle East aims to entice and excite, making it the perfect gift for your loved one.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

In the 1920s, Van Cleef & Arpels began creating precious charms imbued with humour and poetry.

Appealing to the refined tastes of an international elite, these pieces relay traditional symbols of luck and love – mistletoe, hearts, horseshoes and fourleafed clovers.

Designed in 2008, the Charms timepiece continues this tradition, establishing itself as one of Van Cleef & Arpels’ emblematic watchmaking creations.

In step with the Poetry of Time collection, the house enriches the Charms watch collection with a special edition for the Middle East: the Charms Malachite.

Exclusive to the region, Van Cleef & Arpels has reinterpreted this timepiece, whilst still preserving all of its playfulness and femininity.

Inspired by luck, this feminine piece encapsulates a story of happiness. Its clean lines, typical of the brand’s delicate style, are embellished with a playful charm, which rotates to accompany the movements of the wrist – its joyful dance filling each day with sparkling hours!

Today, the Charms Malachite edition is numbered and exclusively available in the Middle East. It remains faithful to the original design, yet offers a colourful creation in the collection.

The malachite, symbolising hope, is featured here in a 32mm yellow gold case for the first time. Said to be the guardian stone of travellers, it evokes the constant renewal of flora with its deep green hue. Evocative of the energy of rebirth, it imparts its luminous gleam to the dial of the watch. The curved case is embellished with details of rare refinement including two rows of

diamonds on the bezel and a diamond-pavéd rotating charm, featuring the iconic Alhambra motif. The interchangeable alligator strap, which is available in both shiny green or matt white, caresses the wrist, bringing light and brilliance to the creation.

Suitable for every occasion, this fresh and ethereal take on the Charms watch is an elegant combination of yellow gold, malachite and diamonds. The pure lines of this new creation ensure a perfect match with the Alhambra collection or with the brand’s Perlée collections. Yellow gold and malachite harmonise in an ode to purity and playfulness.

The special Charms Malachite edition and other Van Cleef & Arpels’ collections are available at the recently re-opened boutique in Moda Mall.

Call 17 131-122.

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JOZ SALON & SPA

Braided Beauties Worn by celebrities and school girls alike, a plait is an easy-to-achieve look that anyone can perfect.

From fishtails and waterfalls to Dutch braids and milkmaids, there are a variety of plaited styles out there, and the options are growing by the day. So much so, that there are even braid bars for when you want to try something extraordinary! To help you create your own masterpiece, Joz Salon & Spa has come up with something really creative.

According to the salon, the fishtail braid, or plait, is a definite favourite. Whether perfectly neat or intentionally messy, the texture and seemingly complicated pattern of this seainspired style provides a refreshing visual twist on your typical three-strand weave. Great news is that this two-strand fishtail is the simplest of all. What’s more, you can have fun and experiment with multiple braids, styles and accessories. But before you go braid-crazy on your locks, you’ve got to learn the basics. Once you’ve mastered Joz’s fishtail fundamentals, you can then turn your hair into a high-fashion form.

The Ultimate Fishtail Braid Step 1: Brush and Section Detangle and brush out your hair so it’s easy to 128 February 2016

handle. If needs be, smooth out flyaways and frizz with a grooming cream. You don’t have to have poker straight hair to rock this look, just keep hair knot-free. Divide the hair into two even sections starting from the middle of the scalp.

Step 2 and 3: Weave From The Right You can begin braiding from either side. If you’re starting from the right, use your pinky and ring finger to grab a small section of the hair (approximately ¼-inch) from the back of the right side. Add this section to the left side by folding it over with your left hand.

Step 4 and 5: Weave From The Left After you’ve added a strand to your left side, take your left pinky and grab a ¼-inch strand from the back of the left section. Fold it over and add it to your right section. Make sure these first few strands are tight, so you get comfortable with the process and nothing falls loose.

Step 6: Continue Weaving and Finish Up Continue weaving strands from the left and right. You’re going to be weaving more or less depending on the thickness of your strands.

The fishtail effect looks much better when you weave thinner pieces instead of thicker. It may take longer, but it’s worth it!

Secure the end of the braid with an elastic band or a clip. If you feel like your braid is too tight, loosen it by gently massaging the strands

with your hands. Grab both hands simultaneously and gently pull away from the braid. This technique gives the braid that casual and effortless look.

Optional: Add Personal Touches Add some fun to this relatively simple design by incorporating styling elements such as ribbons, feathers, barrettes, headbands or whatever hair accessory you may own. For longer hair, don’t stop with a basic side braid – experiment with different styles. Try twisting your fishtail into a gothic-looking updo or add more flair by adding a headband. With a handful of bobby pins and hairspray, the possibilities are truly endless!

Call 17 369-133 or 16 031-120. www.bahrainthismonth.com

BAHRAIN EXHIBITION AND CONVENTION AUTHORITY

Annual Health Expo Returns

Know everything there is to know about health and wellness as a popular wellbeing exhibition returns to the island later this year.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

Your New Year’s resolution of a healthy lifestyle will get an additional boost in the coming months with the 6th Annual Health and Wellness Bahrain Expo 2016.

Organised by the Bahrain Exhibition and Conference Authority (BECA), the event will be held from April 19-21 at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC).

With a view to promoting local and regional businesses, including fitness clubs and spas, to the public, the exhibition will feature a variety of live demos. The goal of the expo is to increase awareness for the residents of the GCC on how to live a good and healthy lifestyle.

The healthcare industry in the Kingdom works to the highest and most professional standards in the region and provides an opportunity for consumers to expand their horizons to see what options are available to them. By bringing together professionals globally within the health and wellness market, BECA aims to utilise the exhibition to promote Bahrain as the regional hub for their businesses.

Bahrain is home to a wide variety of businesses involved in the health services segment and the expo will serve as a platform to raise the profile of

their brands and to develop new opportunities for revenue growth.

The aim is to promote a holistic lifestyle that makes a positive contribution in our day-to-day living. By increasing awareness of the opportunities available to consumers, the Health & Wellness Expo seeks to encourage everyone to adopt a healthy life.

Industry professionals also have a lot to gain, with a chance to conduct Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings that will serve as a platform to achieve maximum exposure for their brands, gain networking opportunities and increase revenue.

Last year’s international and regional exhibitors included Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, USA, Jordan, India, Thailand, Turkey, Slovakia, Czech Republic and Hong Kong, with all kinds of buyers, retailers, importers, exporters, distributors and medical professionals from all sectors.

The event has the support of the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, Ministry of Health and the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Admission is free to the three-day show, opening daily from 10am to 7pm.

Visit www.healthexpo.bh.

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THE WEDDING PARTY

One-stop-shop for Weddings A unique event for weddings and all things associated with them will take place in Bahrain.

130 February 2016

The Wedding Party, a boutique event, will debut for the first time in the GCC and promises to provide a fun-filled experience for engaged couples and their families planning their forthcoming celebrations.

The event, which takes place at Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre from October 26-29, will provide brides, grooms and the family a shopping and infomercial experience designed to take the stress out of planning a wedding.

“The demand for the products and services for weddings in the GCC continues to grow,” says Jubran Abdulrahman, managing director of HCE, organiser of the show. “The Kingdom is the ideal venue to develop a wedding exhibition for not only Bahrain, but the millions of visitors who come here to take advantage of its hospitality and retail sector.

The Wedding Party offers exhibitors and visitors direct access to each other across a consumer extravaganza and visitors get a chance to buy the products and services for their dream wedding. The exciting elements start from today with competitions and networking across all our social media handles #myweddingparty.”

The Wedding Party will feature local and international specialists in the wedding sector. Products to be showcased include designer gowns, suits, evening dresses, jewellery, abayas, special garments for grooms and hair and makeup services. Service providers include wedding planners, hotels, resorts, wedding venues, travel agents offering honeymoon destinations, caterers, entertainers and florists.

“The Wedding Party will be just that, a joyous party atmosphere reflecting the happiness that weddings bring. The event will reflect the cosmopolitan community living in Bahrain and the GCC by looking at products and services for everyone, regardless of where they’re from,” says Ahmed Suleiman, exhibitions director of HCE. “The logo for the event has been specially designed utlising Arabic calligraphy in a modern approach.”

The Wedding Party event will include fashion shows by leading designers in bridal and evening wear as well as live make up tutorials and bridal workshops by some of the GCC’s most celebrated bloggers.

Not yet married or planning to get married? Join the Wedding Party for hair and makeup tutorials, henna designs and workshops.

For exhibitor space bookings, call 17 299-123 or visit info@hilalce.com. www.bahrainthismonth.com

FRASER SUITES SEEF BAHRAIN

Service With a Passion

Having made a name for itself in the hospitality industry, this popular property doesn’t just rest on its laurels but strives to perfect the art of customer service.

www.bahrainthismonth.com

For the third consecutive year, Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain has achieved excellent financial results and has been named Bahrain’s Leading Serviced Apartments by the World Travel Awards. This comes as no surprise, taking into consideration the property’s commitment to quality and excellence in the service standards it provides in the serviced apartments segment.

The philosophy behind Fraser Suites Seef was the desire to create a unique apartment-style accommodation experience through its fantastic blend of location, facilities and amenities to all visitors, whether they are busy corporate clients, leisure travellers on holiday or those on extended-stay relocations. The seven-year history of the property has proved that it has succeeded in its endeavour.

The biggest challenge for the management, after achieving that goal, is to maintain its leading position in the luxury serviced apartments segment in Bahrain, by focusing on the quality of each customer’s experience. For this reason, Wissem Mougou has been recently appointed to lead the front office team.

Having worked in Tunisia for 15 years before coming to Bahrain, he utilises his five-star hotel experience, in diverse front office roles, to provide efficient guest services and to ensure that Fraser Hospitality’s high standards are met.

“These days you need to provide much more in order to stand out from the competition,” he says.

“We’ve got a product which is a five-star deluxe standard. Apart from the direct access to Seef Mall

Wissem Mougou

from the lobby, we have wonderful facilities such as a 24-hour gymnasium with personal trainer, kids’ club, ladies’ and gents’ salons, swimming pools for adults and kids and more.

“Our services extend to a special welcome treat at the time of entering the lobby on arrival, 24-hour food and beverage service with healthy options, en-suite dining, personalised house-keeping and baby-sitting services and a lot more.

“Simply put, we focus very much on the quality of each guest’s experience. We provide our customers with an extensive offering of services in order to give them complete stay satisfaction.”

Call 17 171-626 or visit bahrain.frasershospitality.com.

February 2016 131

marketplace business bites

Commitment to Development As part of its efforts to support the growth of Bahrainis and enterprises across all stages of development, Tamkeen announced its support to the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s initiative: The New Vision for Arab Employment, launched to help tackle the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s high youth unemployment rate and close skills gaps.

Under the scheme 100,000 individuals, across MENA, will receive skills training and job readiness preparation by the end of 2017, enhancing their employability and investing in the region’s long-term economic growth. Tamkeen has committed to provide training for up to 20,000 Bahrainis and to support the development of 2,000 of the Kingdom’s entrepreneurs over the course of the next two years, making it one of the largest participators in the pledge.

Tamkeen’s chairman, Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, says: “Development of human capital is the most critical factor for the sustainability of economic development. In Bahrain, Tamkeen has continuously worked in upskilling Bahrainis to be able to have the necessary operational and practical knowledge that matches with the private sector’s requirements and needs. With WEF’s latest vision, the Arab world is set to go through a shift that will help stabilise the regional economy and create better opportunities for youth.”

Speaking from Davos where the WEF Annual Meeting took place, Khalid Al Rumaihi, (pictured) chief executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), said: “Developing the education and skills of the Bahraini workforce has always been a priority for the government.

This has produced great results and Bahrain now has one of the most highly-educated populations in the region, however, there is always room for improvement. Initiatives such as these are a great way to inspire people and encourage their personal development, and in Bahrain, they will always find help and advice available from organisations such as Tamkeen and the EDB.”

Storm in Port APM Terminals Bahrain, which operates Khalifa Bin Salman Port, has appointed military veteran Arno Storm as its new chief operating officer.

Prior to joining APM Terminals, Bahrain, Arno held senior positions at APM Terminals, Rotterdam, from 2012 to October 2015. He had previously served in the Dutch armed forces from 1999 having graduated in leadership, management and logistics, from the Royal Netherlands Military Academy.

APM Terminals Bahrain applies the latest innovation and technology to improve safety performance at the port and the company’s objectives depend on the highest standards of safety. One of the few multi-purpose ports in the region, APM Terminals Bahrain offers a wide range of services including the provision of sea freight, shipping and logistical services to the highest international standards in the industry.

132 February 2016

Air Services Upgrade

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to update their air operational frameworks allowing up to 107 flights a week to operate between the two countries.

The Memorandum of Understanding, signed at Bahrain International Airshow, removes any and all restrictions on aircraft models and their seating capacity and derestricts air freight services.

It also includes the sharing of call signs and the rights to charter aircraft and interconnect some carriers domestically to meet the growing demand for flights between the neighbours and strengthen economic exchange.

Bahrain Marina Appoints CEO Real estate professional Yazan Haddad has been appointed as CEO of Bahrain Marina Development Company as the project enters its second phase.

The world-class facility occupies a stretch of coastline in Manama and will be positioned as the Kingdom’s prime lifestyle and leisure destination.

Aiming for completion by 2020, the mix-used project will include a five-star, lifestyle hotel, serviced and freehold apartments and waterfront villas along with a shopping mall, fully-integrated family entertainment centre and a recreational waterfront space with dining and retail spaces. A yacht club will be built covering an impressive area with the capacity of berthing a vast number of boats of different sizes.

Commenting on his appointment, Yazan said: “It’s a great time to join Bahrain Marina as the project enters its second phase of development.

The focus now is on ensuring that the project meets the overall objective and mandate set by the board. Bahrain Marina is clearly moving towards becoming one of the leading projects in the Kingdom.” www.bahrainthismonth.com

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February 2016 133

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tarotscope

AQUARIUS

Jan 21 – Feb 20 On the work front, you are finding that

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 20 February is the month 2016 kicks off for you and after a relatively slow January, progress couldn’t come soon enough. Where a work development is concerned, don’t be afraid to try out some alternative plans of action and build on your achievements. You command the attention of your superiors right now

changing the direction of your career is a

so the only limitations are any you might set yourself. On the home front,

much more difficult and indeed draining

sure you plan properly.

process and you may very well have to set yourself a deadline before you reconsider your current course of action. On the relationship

you could be looking to start some long overdue building work. Make Card of the Month — The Three Of Cups

GEMINI May 21 – June 20 February is going to offer up a slightly mixed bag of successes as certain challenges are thrown in your path and how you deal with them will go a long way to

front, a barren spell is starting to knock your

determining whether you end 2016 on a high note or not. In truth you

confidence however you don’t need to get

and now you are going to have to reassess the resources at your

down about this. Your destiny is in your own

claim any solution at all.

hands and the right person is a lot closer than you realise.

Card of the Month — The Chariot

may find that you have calculated certain financial estimates incorrectly disposal and perhaps even seek out some drastic measures if you are to Card of the Month — The Seven Of Swords

CANCER June 21 – July 20 On occasions, your sign can be difficult, especially when your infamous moody side comes to the fore. This month someone in your close circle is going to challenge you and the outcome of this confrontation will prove decisive in the long-term

For a detailed, personalised Tarotscope reading, contact Raphael by email: raphael@tarotscope.org.uk

relationship you are set to share. Whilst the other person is likely to be in the wrong, you should consider carefully where your own actions are likely to lead. Sometimes it is best to show the other cheek.

PISCES February 21 – March 20 Following on from the formation of a new partnership, you will be excited by the opportunities that are on show for you. This new union has opened many doors and the potential for expansion and financial rewards remain significant. On the relationship front, you need to temper your desires after your association with a work colleague develops into something more serious. There is no doubting that an attraction exists between you but this could be a dangerous liaison!

Card of the Month — The Knight Of Swords

ARIES March 21 – April 20 Money and travel are two key features of your life this month and both offer exciting opportunities. On the financial side this will be because of good planning and you can take great satisfaction from this fact. Yours is the sign of the leader and taking the initiative is something you are good at so don’t be afraid to exert your influence where required. As far as travelling is concerned,

Card of the Month — The Nine Of Pentacles

LEO July 21 – August 21 Those of you who have been involved in any kind of building or development work, either at home or at work, are likely to be at your wits end by the time you have read this because of issues with the contractors and generally poor workmanship that has seen the project overrun its timeline. Fortunately the worst of this fiasco is probably behind you but there could still be a sting in the tail with legal matters if you decide to pursue some kind of recourse legally.

Card of the Month — The Eight Of Pentacles

VIRGO August 22 – September 21 After a difficult few months financially, things are set to improve as we head towards into the New Year. This is down to a combination of things but in no small part because of your own efforts to tighten the purse strings and moderate your outgoings.

The good news is that the worst of it now lies behind you. However, on the

you will be given the chance to visit someone new and you should take

work front, certain changes to personnel and procedures could lead to

it without hesitation.

your role being more complicated going forward.

Card of the Month — The Ace Of Wands

Card of the Month — The Five Of Cups

134 February 2016

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advertisers index LIBRA September 22 – October 21 Yours is a sign that can sometimes create a love in your mind that is leagues away from the reality of a situation and you need to try and be grounded when tackling your emotional concerns. Be honest about matters and it will prove much easier to tackle them. On the work front, a struggling business needs new ideas and you would do well to investigate unorthodox solutions as a means of getting an operation back on track.

Card of the Month — The Ten Of Swords

SCORPIO October 22 – November 21 For many of you, career is the number one concern and it might be that you need to assess where you are going and select an alternative plan of action for your future. Money wise, things have been tight but relief could arrive in the form of a relative who offers up a solution for you. On the romance front matters could prove more complicated, especially for those of you who are caught in an unwanted love triangle. The time has come for someone to make a decision.

Card of the Month — The Star

SAGITTARIUS November 22 – December 21 Humility is the order of the day for your sign as some of you could be leading to a fall because of overconfidence. There is nothing wrong with being positive and assured in your own abilities but when matters are taken beyond that point then it can become offensive. Try to take your friends and family into consideration and think about the feelings of those closest to you. Otherwise you might find February to be a lonely month.

Card of the Month — The Four Of Pentacles

CAPRICORN December 22 – January 21 If you are involved in a relationship then it could be time to reassess where you are and what you want because this person is sure to make you question the current status quo.

If you are single then you could be about to embark upon the greatest experience of your life. It really promises to be that sensational! On the work front, a colleague leaving may open the door to promotion but you need to be sure you want the role as much as the title before committing.

Card of the Month — The Ace Of Swords

Big Show

Bob Marley

Shakira

FAMOUS AQUARIUS THIS MONTH

Fashion & Footwear PUMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3

Financial Institutions Citibank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC HSBC Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Hotels & Serviced Residences Al Areen Palace & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Fraser Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Ramee Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Ramee Rose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel . . . 99 The Domain Bahrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 The Four Seasons Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . 47 The K Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Jewellery & Watches Ambassador Stores (Sieko) . . . . . . . . 23 Asia Jewellers (Panerai) . . . . . . . . . . 31 Asia Jewellers (Van Cleef & Arpels) . 4 Sharif Group (Ferre Milano) . . . . . . . . 51 Sharif Group (Pierre Cardin) . . . . . . 104

Medical & Dental Services Bahrain Specialist Hospital . . . . . . . . 37

Motoring A.A. Bin Hindi (KIA Motors) . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Al Ghassan Motors (Lamborghini) . . IFC,1 Al Haddad Motors (Mercedes) . . . . . . . . 63 Behbehani Brothers (Porsche) . . . . . . . . 15 EK. Kanoo (Lexus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Subaru) . . . . . . . . 65 EK. Kanoo (Motor City:Volvo) . . . . . . . . . . 41 EK. Kanoo (Toyota) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Euro Motors (BMW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (Nissan) . . . . . . . 29

Others Al Ghalia Co. (Dessange) . . . . . . . . . . 21 Al Hilal Group:Hilal Conferences & Exhibitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Al Shaya Trading Co. (Bath & Body Works) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority (Food & Hospitality Expo) . 27 Joz Salon & Spa (Toni&Guy Hairdressing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Juffair Fitness Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Lulu Hypermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Riffa Views International School . . .121 Rotary Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 The National Initiative for Agricultural Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Restaurants & Cafés Al-Abraaj Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Bambu! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Bennigan’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Brazil Grill Co. Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Bushido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Cake Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Casa Mexicana Restaurant . . . . . . . . 91 Crust & Crema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Nicole’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 NUASIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 T.G.I.Friday’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 The Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge . 86 Trader Vic’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Upstairs Downstairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Telecommunications Batelco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Zain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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

● 24 Hours Market, all outlets ● Al Hilal Bookshops, all outlets ● Al Jazira Supermarket, all outlets ● Alosra Supermarket, Saar ● Bab al Bahrain Souvenir Shop ● BooksPlus, all outlets ● Burhama Cold Store ● Classic Shop, Bab Al Bahrain ● Elite Supermarket, Hoora ● Supermarket, Awali ● Jawad Supermarket, all outlets ● Jim’s Restaurant ● Mega Mart, all outlets

● Miami Cold Store, Adliya ● Midway Supermarket, all outlets ● Park Supermarket, Mahooz ● Other leading Cold Stores and

News Stands

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

Photos Copies of most pictures depicted in this publication (and some which aren’t) are available from National Photo Services, Gudaibiya 17 742-955. www.bahrainthismonth.com

February 2016 135

lastword

Old Man’s Rant

GEG HOPKINS

As rare as a second hand coffin, you are about to read a very serious column indeed. It has never been more serious, and we mean serious, as we speak of your hard earned cash, which is about to be whisked away from you as payment for your basic needs.

Sure, something has to be done.

But it is a vicious circle and, if gambling were legal, go for the kill, bet your entire life’s savings that your boss will not increase your salary to compensate. Oh my God! Within a few months, there might be no expatriates here to read this column. Don’t worry; you would not have missed anything, because the writer of the same will be two perk cheeks going yonder.

Goneski! Most of us having no choice but to saddle up.

136 February 2016

We can’t win, can we? Some survey banded about on the news channels during January, stated that about 10 people in the world possess more wealth than the combined amount held by the rest of us plebs in our billions with sod all and piggy banks which echo louder than the Grand Canyon; add it all up and still it doesn’t match the pile that some like George Soros and his cocktail friends have stashed in Swiss banks. Digging Karl Marx up is looking ever more favourable.

Let’s go back a few decades.

Allegedly, crime didn’t happen much and, because there were considerably less people, the odds of winning the ‘football pools’ were much greater. Now it is the lottery and you have two chances of winning that; a dog’s chance and no chance at all! It is the very same with endowment and

insurance policies with benefits.

When oil prices were very low, most of us could bank on good returns with our investments. Are they related – who knows?

Do not get confused with financial institutions that handle billionaire’s funds. They NEVER LOSE! For the past couple of decades, well-known names with huge assets send out their ‘commission-based’, well-suited robots to court us, the plebs, bombarding us with smooth talk, having plied LinkedIn and any other social media to gain a ‘first name’ and telephone number to call. These days, they are as fictitious as a Nigerian scam, but because we are all so desperate to survive, we try what we believe to be honest and legitimate channels to enhance our own small spoils. However, those

managing your personal funds are shameless. It is a vile culture that has spread through financial institutions, some of which have been bailed out only to repeat their sins all over again.

After faithfully investing for 20 or 25 years, many are presented with the cruel reality that the return is far less than deposited. You are hoping for a pension or nest egg reasonable enough to live on and, to your surprise, you find that had you put your money in an old mattress and thrown it on a landfill, you would have gained more. You would not have paid gross amounts of commissions to highfalutin suits parading around expensive offices claiming film star salaries, each of which has done absolutely zero for you.

During the ‘90s this behaviour was rife with people losing half their savings or more and no recourse to the law. The British government stepped in and, under duress, ordered a pittance in compensation (but were sparse with the publicity), which the banks and insurance companies challenged as if hard done by, but had to pay out as they sniggered at the penance. Isn’t this why we pay those commissions for them to ‘manage’ our money?

It should be a law, and strict law at that, that investment, insurance, banks and the like that offer these endowment policies should clearly state, by audit, exactly how much they made during your 20-odd-year slog, compared to your own payout and match it. They might state their commissions if asked, but they never reveal how they used YOUR money to make far more than you get in return. One might even be inclined to call it ‘fraud’, but we couldn’t possible say that could we?

See now! You were warned that the column was serious this month! www.bahrainthismonth.com