bahrain confidential january 2013

C ’est

Online edition at www.FashionArabia.net

Issue121

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion!

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FabulousWinter Getaways

DetoxRepair and Rejuvenate Yourself

Bargains Galore

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This Season

Al AAli Shopping Complex BAhrAin+973 1700 3149

www.AlBertAferretti.Com

ContentsJanuary 2013 • Issue 121

5 New Year, New You!

34Doctor by Day, Musician by Night

66Top 13Destination for 2013

People20 Poet: David Hollywood: What Lies! ... in Truth?52 Dr Pierre Clero: Wonder Foods for Younger Looking Skin

Opinion26 John R Ridley: Letter from Bahrain: Them and Us 60 Kelly Armatage: The Jail of Judgement72 Rehan Ahmed: Combating Climate Change128 Mohammad T Al Rasheed: A Future of Life, Not Death

Regulars16 New In Town73 Society: Out & About

Fashion36 Spring38 Dune Accessories39 Steve Madden40 Versace42 Coach44 Mamas & Papas46 Ecco

Beauty 48 Beauty Buzz

Juicy Pickings3 Ambassadors’ Goodwill Message4 Readers’ Letters6 Star News8 Not to be missed53 Success with Health66 Travel: Top 13 Destinations for 2013126 Bizarre News 127 Horoscopes

Cars106 Kia Sorento 2013108 Mercedes GL – Class 2013109 Car News112 BMW 730Li

Gastro 114 Gastro Calendar 115 Maki: 15 Magical Moments of Fusion Cuisine114 Cucina Italiana: Buon Anniversario!117 Recipes118 Leila Restaurant: Lebanese Delights119 Night Life Calendar

Essential Listings24 Recommended Restaurants, Nightspots, Essential Info. Beauty Spots, Sports and Fitness, Clubs and Associations

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For decades our two countries have worked

together to promote our shared values and to defend regional security. The bond between us is much broader than simply a “strategic relationship,” it is a true friendship rooted in people-to-people exchanges that have contributed in deep and meaningful ways to both of our societies. I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of the United States to support and assist Bahrain in facing its challenges in any way we can, as well as our commitment to further strengthening the bonds of our friendship with Bahrain in the decades ahead. And on behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people and government of Bahrain for having celebrated the Kingdom’s 41st National Day!

His Excellency Thomas C KrajeskiUS Ambassador to Bahrain

Publishers:Nicholas & Rebecca Cooksey

Editor in Chief:Rebecca Cooksey

Editorial:Pooja Rajpal Kasala Melissa Nazareth

Art Design:Noel De Juan

Dhanraj S.

Contributors Dr Mohd. Al RasheedEng. Rehan AhmedDr Pierre R CleroFaisal EbrahimKelly Armatage

David HollywoodJohn Ridley

Roberta TrzebinskiAmy Warman

Administration Nikesh Pola

PR & Events Mahalina Penaflor

Photographer Shareef Panhatt

Sales Account Manager Jehan Mohamed

Namitha BSueallen Menezes

Distribution Distribution Executive

Mohammed Yousif Muhammed Shareef P

Sunaid Kunimmal

Regional Sales-Point Distribution

Bahrain: Al Hilal Corporation

Tel. +973 1748 0800UAE:

Jashanmals Tel. +971 4341 9757

A Division of C.G. Arabia W.L.L. P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722

Email: [email protected] Website: www.ArabianMagazines.com

Ministry of Information approval no.

ISDN 99901-01-17-5 © Copyright 2008, C.G. Arabia W.L.L. No part of this publication may be re-produced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Printed at Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej, Bahrain.

Published by:

For Advertising Opportunities: Tel. +973 1782 2368

Email: [email protected]


Ambassadors’GoodwillMessage

We wish our Readers a very happy, prosperous and joyous New Year! May the year be filled with fun, parties, good health, peace and merriment. Team - Bahrain ConfidentialC ’e�


Issue121



DetoxRepair and

Rejuvenate Yourself

Bargains Galore

JanuarySales

Super Lux Cars

This Season

Cover Credits: ‘ecco’

Bahrain and Britain have been close friends for a very long time. It takes leadership to build and maintain such a good relationship and His Majesty the King plays the central role in that. For the UK, our nationals are always given the warmest of welcomes here. Many

are settled and regard Bahrain as their home. Similarly, many Bahrainis have strong connections with the UK, either through study, business, regular visits or having family and homes there. Our two countries, our royal families and our people have a remarkable affinity. We are good friends and allies. Bahrain faces challenges, but we encourage everyone to seize the opportunity to move ahead in a positive way, building trust and confidence, encouraging dialogue, promoting reform and healing divisions. The UK stands ready to support Bahrain in achieving these goals. HMA Iain Lindsay OBE, UK Ambassador to Bahrain

Japan and Bahrain celebrated the

40th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in 2012. The highlight is of course the visit of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, to Japan last April, during which the Emperor of Japan and the King of Bahrain had a very cordial meeting followed by the luncheon hosted by HM the Emperor of Japan. I had the honour to attend that luncheon and witnessed two heads of the states enjoyed lunch as members of one family. The visit of HM the King to Japan was really historical and opened up new horizons between the two countries. Today two countries relations are not only in the traditional area of business but in the area of defense, education and police. Japan highly commends HM King Hamad for his initiative to continue the political reform based upon transparency and a will of the people. Japan will always stand by the Kingdom of Bahrain. As Ambassador of Japan, I will spare no effort to bring about yet closer relations between the two countries.

His Excellency Shigeki Sumi Japanese Ambassador to Bahrain

4 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2013

Readers’ Letters

Dear Editor [email protected]

Many thanks to all of you who wrote in last month and apologies if your letter isn’t printed but we get so many. Keep us informed and keep us in check by sending comments to

C ’e�

Guide to Arabian life, luxury and fashion! Issue119

Romantic Duo

A Colourful Life

Fashion

Out & About

Drive in

MaseratiStyle

Hotfor LookingGreatTips

Out

TheEssential

Guideto Going

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Issue120

Inside: Live the Island Dream

Amwaj Revisited

Tips to AchieveSuper Health

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PartyBonanzaAll the Best Gigs in Town

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DetoxRepair and Rejuvenate Yourself

Bargains Galore

JanuarySales

Super Lux Cars

This Season

Yummy Recipes!Yum! All those healthy recipes featured last month were such a delight. I wish the magazine would share more of these diet-friendly dishes such as John Ridley’s Persian Fesenjan as well as Dr Pierre’s Chicken with Leek and Shiitakes. Even though I’m not much of a great cook, it still feels great to be cooking something healthy and eating it if the taste turns out great.Sara, Manama

Hey Sara, I’m not much of a cook either but it’s good to have healthy recipes on hand just in case. Glad you liked the recipes featured last month. Lucky for you we have focused our current issue on health and diet. So enjoy the array of options available to you this month!

Dates As a person who doesn’t know much about dates, it was interesting to read about the

significance of a fruit so widely available yet unknown for

its various types and stages. What’s more

amazing is the nutritional value

dates hold. It’s beautiful to see such

a small fruit coming from a source which is

used for other purposes apart from eating, the palm tree. The “tree of life”

as it’s called held such great importance for Arab culture, used as a resource for huts, brooms, baskets and mats. Rasha

Lovely isn’t it? I love how dates can be added to desserts, substituting the use of sugar. At least this way I’m consuming a healthier

version of sucrose. Just keep an eye out for packaged dates that have added sugar to give off a glossy look. It defeats the idea of eating healthy dates.

Healthy Japanese FoodWhen I think Japanese food the first picture that pops in my head is yummy sizzling Teriyaki. Well of course, then there’s sushi. What didn’t come to mind is the amount of healthy ingredients packed in Japanese cuisine. I can’t wait to try out the new Maki restaurant! Well I’m gonna need some help deciphering those Japanese food names, but I’m sure someone there will help me pick something I’d like.Mike

Mike, I really hope you’ve tried Maki by the time you’re reading this. It’s worth a visit! ... Actually many. I enjoy sushi, so knowing more about the healthy food I’m eating adds to that experience of enjoyment.

Organic CosmeticsThank you for sharing the importance of natural perfumes and cosmetic products by Durance. I like my natural look and hardly apply makeup, but when I do I take extra care and still end up with zits sometimes. So I’m really hoping Durance works for me! There’s just something more magical and unique about using natural remedies or products. You feel closer to Mother Nature, Mother Earth.Adriana

True. For example, sometimes I use Dead Sea products, such as mud mask, bath salts etc. I just naturally feel cleaner and refreshed. Maybe it’s mental thing and maybe it’s not. Surely the idea of using a natural, chemical free product is more calming for users, especially those with sensitive skins!

T7-529-BAHRAIN CONFIDENTIAL SP NOV.indd 1 17/10/12 17:29


Gossip

NewsCheck out what’s happening in the celebrity world ...

Celebrity Tweets

Justin Bieberand i met what i said at the end. finally answered about the grammys. I got you guys. that is all i need. Im all good.

Bonnie BernsteinSurviving the row machine at the gym is exponentially more challenging when next to someone yet to discover deodorant.

Lady GagaMonster Q&A: Why do I always look completely different? I think it’s because I’ve never seen myself in the mirror. Not sure what I look like.

Brandy ‘Gets Engaged’ to Music Mogul Ryan PressBrandy’s boyfriend Ryan Press has reportedly put a ring on it and asked the R&B princess to marry him. The 33-year-old former Moesha star had previously spoken about her wish to tie the knot with the music executive.

Kate Winslet Marries Ned Rocknroll!Academy Award winner Kate Winslet has wed Ned Rocknroll in a secret ceremony, Winset’s UK rep Sara Keene says “I can confirm that Kate Winslet married Ned Rock’n Roll in NY earlier this month in a private ceremony attended by her two children and a very few friends and family. The couple had been engaged since the summer.” The two were first linked in the fall of 2011, though neither has mentioned an engagement.

Rihanna

Rihanna Donates USD1.75 Million In Memory of GrandmotherIt’s going to be a healthier new year for a select group of Barbadians thanks to Rihanna. The pop mega-star has decided to celebrate the holidays by donating USD1.75 million to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados. The donation was made in loving memory of her late grandmother, Clara “Dolly” Braithwaite, who passed away in June. This comes just weeks after Rihanna threw a listening party to benefit victims of Hurricane Sandy. The sizable donation will be allocated entirely to the radiotherapy department, which will now be called the Clara Braithwaite Centre for Oncology and Nuclear Medicine. Braithwaite died of cancer.

Tom Cruise Falls for NYC Restaurant Manager, Cynthia JorgeTom Cruise fell under the spell of a 26-year-old brunnette called Cynthia Jorge from New York City. The actor, 50, who split from his wife Katie Holmes six months ago, met the girl at Le Baron along with some friends. According to a witness Cruise was “mesmerized by Cynthia” who “had her hair in a bun, wore tight black pants and looked gorgeous.” Jorge is the manager at Beauty & Essex in New York City. She reportedly met Cruis at the restaurant where she works. Jorge reportedly handed the actor her card. Sources say Jorge always wanted to be famous. In an interview at Benjamin’s Steakhouse where she used to work, Cynthia said her favorite part of the job was “meeting new people, from CEOs to celebrities to just really interesting people in the industry.” However, a friend of the actor hinted that Cruise may not be happy about all the press attention.

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Jessica Simpson PregnantJessica Simpson announced she was pregnant with her second child via a tweet on Christmas Day 2012, but the big announcement has long been in the works. The singer actually broke the news that she was pregnant in a commercial she shot back in November 2012. Her latest ad for Weight Watchers sees Simpson boasting that she dropped 50 pounds through the weight loss program, before announcing she’s pregnant again.” Being healthy has become a part of who I am, which is great timing, because I’m having another baby!” Simpson says in the video before introducing Weight Watchers’ new 360 program.

Jessica Simpson

Kate Winslet and Ned Rocknroll

Tom Cruise

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What’s On

Not To BeMissedFor more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 114 - 120

11th JanNew Year, New Goals - “New You” WorkshopDo you have unfinished goals – weight wise, career wise, happiness wise, financially, relationship wise? Do you tend to procrastinate often? Do you find your motivation levels are not as high as they should be? Do you start out the New Year with the best of intentions, then come March; all those good intentions have disappeared? Do you feel guilty and overwhelmed, because in certain areas you have tried and tried and tried, but still do not get the results you deep down yearn for? If yes! Then attend the New Year, New Goals - New You workshop! For more details contact, Tel. +973 3993 1399 or Email: [email protected]: 10am - 1pm

15th-17th JanThird Annual Muscat Fashion Week Dedicated to showcasing the best Omani and regional design talent, Muscat Fashion Week will play host to a medley of established names and newly discovered faces of the future. Guests can expect to experience a true Arabian fashion extravaganza, but with an international twist. The three-day event, will see twelve designers present their latest collections to a select audience, consisting of royalty, local, regional and international media, prominent fashion buyers and VIP guests. Visit, www.muscatfashionweek.com for more information.

16th-17th JanThe Chuckle Club Start 2013 with a smile with legends of standup comedy live at Bahrain’s InterContinental Regency Hotel. Mitch Benn - star of BBC Radio 4 Comedy “The Now Show”. With Channel 4’s Mark Dolan and Michael Fabbri. Tickets for BD15 - available online now with a 33 per cent discount until 2013! Call, Tel. +973 3666 3509.

23rd-31st JanThe Autumn Fair 2013The Autumn Fair, Bahrain’s largest and most popular annual consumer products exhibition returns to Bahrain at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.Packed with over 700 exhibitors from 20 countries, this 13,300 square metre shopping extravaganza showcases thousands of products from across the globe. A huge variety of goods will go on sale during this nine day period, ranging from specialty food, fashion and furniture; to technology, toys, textiles and much more. The exhibition will open daily to the public from 12pm - 10pm on 23rd January, 10am - 2pm and 4pm, 10pm on 24th January, 12pm - 10pm on 25th January, 10am - 2pm and 4pm - 10pm on 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th January, and from 10am to 10pm on 30th and 31st January. Special ladies only mornings will take place on 27th and 28th January. Entry is 700 fils and children under five years old will be admitted free of charge. For further information visit www.theautumnfair.com or call, Tel. +973 1755 0033.

Third Annual Muscat Fashion Week

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What’s On

Not To BeMissedFor more events, gastro, parties & nightlife turn to pages 114 - 120

‘til 10th JanIf Walls Could Talk Date: 6th December 2012 to 10th January 2013 Contact Number: +973 1710 2600 Venue: BFH Fine Art Gallery Sun-Thurs: 10-7pm/ Fri-Sat: 3-7pmWebsite: http://ifwallscouldtalkexhibition.wordpress.com/

16th-18th JanBahrain International Exhibition for Cosmetics and Beauty Products “Beauty Care”Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre brings together the latest in the beauty and health world from around the globe. The exhibition will attract more than 2,000 attendees, providing the best opportunity to attract new prospects, introduce new products and services, and give services, products demonstrations to buyers in field of beauty. The exhibition has various sections such as Beauty Care and Makeup, Personal Care and Hygiene,Perfumery and Oils, Fitness and Wellbeing, Fashion, Health and Therapy, Hair and Beauty Salons products and Equipments. For more details contact, Tel. +973 3669 1969.

If Walls Could Talk

5th, 17th and 21st Jan

New and fun classes at World Beat Fitness Centre and CaféWorld Beat Fitness Centre rings in the new year with a great variety of classes.Bollywood Fitness: an expressive form of movement based around the popular Indian film genre. Fusing classical Indian steps with folk, Latin and hip-hop styles, it offers a fast-moving and vivacious dancing workout .Fluid Balance: a combo of pilates, core balance, core strength and stretch. Ashtanga Yoga and Power Yoga.

Also @ World Beat Art Gallery Exhibition, 5th January Finnish artist and photographer, Aila Asu’s, solo exhibition, “The First Snow”. This show is all about the seasons, that magical moment when the vivid colors of Autumn suddenly transform to the clear, crisp white of winter.Tea & Coffee Talk, 17th January“Breast Cancer: Early Detection and Cure,” with guest speaker Salwa Fhadel Education coordinator at American Mission Hospital.Breastfeeding Coffee Morning, 21st JanuaryVicky Honar, an IBLCE Certified Lactation Consultant talks about her practice and answer questions about breastfeeding.

‘til 21st MarDELUXE Band Returns 9th December 2012 to 21st March 2013 Venue: Buffalo Club DELUXE is back in Bahrain on popular demand. They shocked party-animals in China, Thailand, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Canada & US. Now they are coming back again to Club Buffalo the only club recognised on the whole Island for bring the best band & DJ’s. For Queries & Info: Tel. +973 3373 1000/+973 3613 1020.

‘til 28th JunKaraoke Kings Date: 9th November 2012 to 28th June 2013 Organiser: Corners Venue: Corners @ Dragon Hotel & Resort - Amwaj Every Friday, 8pm onwardsWebsite: www.cornersamwaj.com

‘til 6th AprilAmwaj Shopping Festival 20135th Jan, 2nd Feb, 2nd March, 6th AprilShopping, raffle draws, exciting games & rides, face painting, henna designing, cycling and more! Email: [email protected]

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Events

Private viewings would be held at the iconic hotel’s finest suites. The main exhibitions will be conducted at a state-of-the-art double-volume pavilion, architecturally designed specifically for the Burj Al Arab Marina Garden area and will be known as The Grand Pavilion during World Luxury Expo. Networking receptions and banquets are also lined up for guests at the Al Falak Ballroom, a palatial, two-tiered, circular ballroom in the style of an 18th century Viennese Opera House.

The items which will be on display will

include the Steinway crystalised 1/6 scale model grand piano whose full scale version is valued at around BD1,300,000 and Earth Platinum, the worlds largest atlas measuring 6x9 ft. wide is another unique collectors piece that will be featured at the expo. It is made up of images that are stitched together with as many as 1,000 individual photos; the largest has 12,000 photos joined together. Only 31 copies of the atlas will ever be published.

Globally recognised as being the ultimate producer of the world’s greatest handmade and bespoke beds using only the finest all-natural materials, the Swedish Hästens is another brand on the luxury list. The Vividus by Hästens which is valued at over BD37,000 and takes 160 hours to handcraft will be on display. This piece has been tailor-made for many global icons and celebrities. The legendary Harvey Nichols is on the cards too.

The Dubai edition of the expo will continue to the palatial Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh and then to Doha and Abu Dhabi, creating an annual signature series of events in all four cities

Luxury

“The exhibition will take place within the pristine interiors of the Burj Al Arab.”

World Luxury Group expo set to enchant the GCC.n expo, featuring some of the world’s leading luxury brands will be held at Burj Al Arab, Dubai. Top-brands across categories including fine art, high-end jewellery

and fashion, hand-crafted time pieces, designer furniture and exquisite table settings, automobiles, fine dining, and private aviation and luxury travel will participate.

The exhibition will take place within the pristine interiors of the Burj Al Arab.

A

Save the date!15th to 17th January, 2013 at Dubai10th to 12th February, 2013 at Riyadh

For more information contact, Tel. +393 3 5802 3985 or email: [email protected]

‘CrystalRocked’ 16 scale model Grand Piano by Steinway & Sons

The Luxurious Vividus Bed by Hastens

BD1,300,000

Extravaganza15th to 17th January, 2013

BD37,000

Earth Platinum - World’s Largest Atlas

BD57,000

The London Robe Company

Mercedes Benz SLS

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Events

Exciting Events in Store for the New Year.

JanuarySporting EventsWee Monty Family Day Every Saturday. Only BD15 per adult, kids play free! Inclusive of green fee and hire clubs. Tee times from 10am to 2pm. Open to all.

Ecco Monday StablefordEvery Monday. Monday Madness Night Golf Series with a different format each week. 1pm shotgun6.30pm shotgun. Open to all.

Midweek Stableford Every Thursday. Tee times until 2pm. Open to all.

Friday Carvery FeastEvery Friday at Links Lounge & Restaurant. Classic roast carvery buffet, live cooking stations and special buffet table for the kids. Additional outdoor barbecue station every week throughout the winter months. Midday to 4pm. Visitors: BD16 net, club members: BD14 net and kids under twelve: BD8.5 inclusive of selected soft drinks.

Kids Eat FreeEvery Saturday at Links & Prego restaurants. For every adult main course ordered, a child under the age of twelve years can order a dish from the kids’ menu absolutely free. 11am to 3pm.

Poretti PromotionSunday to Thursday at Prego Restaurant. Order a main course or pizza and receive a Poretti beverage free! 6pm to 8pm

Links Happy HourDaily at Links Lounge & Restaurant. Enjoy fantastic discounts everyday on selected beverages. 5pm to 7pm.

Links Business LunchSunday to Thursday at Links Lounge & Restaurant. 2-course lunch and selected soft drink for only BD8 per person. 11.30am to 3pm

January Dining Events

Grass Roots Golf for KidsThe New Year Junior Programme offers an innovative approach to engaging youngstersin challenging but rewarding physical and mental activities. Children will be placed into either the FUNdamental cyclone or SMASH Zone categories depending on their age and their results from physical competency games and golf/athletic ability. It’s an 80 minute class with a 60 minute introductory

workshop for parents and sample lesson for kids on Friday 11th January. Only BD82 per child for the six week programme inclusive of all equipment.Fridays: 18th January through to 22nd February 2013Saturdays: 19th January through to 23rd February 2013Tuesdays: 22nd January through to 26th February 2013

Bargains Galore in the Monty’s SaleEnjoy super discounts on golf hardware and winter clothing at the Monty’s New Year Sale at the Royal Golf Club. Choose from the Callaway Razr Fit, Callaway Razr X or TaylorMade R11 and RocketBallz ranges – and stock up on cosy winter wear from the Cutter & Buck, Chervo, Oscar Jacobsen and Adidas Fall 2012 collections. 15th January to 31st January.

Family Movie Night MagicEvery Friday evening from 6pm onwards. Enjoy the latest family movies in beautiful flood-lit gardens. Non Members: BD5 Members: Complimentary. No advance booking required.

Kangoo FitnessMixed Class: Fridays at 5pm. Ladies ONLY class: Fridays at 6pm. Kangoo is an intense cardiovascular workout that combines dance moves, running and jumping while wearing unusual ‘sprung’ footwear providing ‘rebound exercise’. BD7.5 per person per class (inclusive of Kangoo boot hire). Open to all.

For further information on all above events and offers call +973 1775 0777 or visit www.theroyalgolfclub.com

Royal Golf Club This Month At The

Bahrain’s Most Unique VenueCreate unrivalled memories for yourself and your guests by booking your next special occasion at the spectacular Royal Golf Club - Bahrain’s most unique venue for wedding receptions, engagement parties, corporate events, board meetings, product launches and birthday parties.

Make the most of superb views, award-winning dining and superb customer service.

windows and its own private lawn, the Marquee for larger parties and Repartee, a private dining room with its own terrace overlooking the golf course.

The Royal Golf Club’s dedicated events team is standing by to create your bespoke event, leaving you free to enjoy the occasion.

Visit our website or call +973 17 750777 today to for further information.

The Royal Golf Club website is available to you 24/7 all year round. Keep up to date with everything going on at the Club, view our latest offers and news, reserve a table in any of our restaurants or book your next tee time. www.theroyalgolfclub.com

Find us on


New In Town

New InTownBahrain Confidential fill you in on the who, what, why, when and where in Bahrain!

Cultural Diversity and ToleranceIn an initiative to promote cultural diversity and tolerance in the community, a group of Bahraini people attended the National Evangelical Church on Christmas Eve 2012 in Manama, Bahrain. It was a surprise visit by them to the church and they asked the father Mr Hani Aziz if they address the Christian community in a fully-packed hall. The church agreed and Yousif

Al Zeera, on behalf of the group, presented a short speech about the importance of having diversity in the community and that celebrating Christmas is a celebration to the humanity. Afterwards, he presented a shirt with the line “Jesus, voice of forgiveness”, designed by the designer Jaafar Hamza as a gesture to the Christian community.

Ban Ki-moon Welcomes UN Resolution to Eliminate Female Genital MutilationUN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomes five resolutions on the advancement of women passed unanimously by the General Assembly, including a historic resolution calling on countries to eliminate female genital mutilation. These resolutions represent important steps towards a world free from violence for all. Harmful practices, such as female genital mutilation, constitute a serious threat to the health of millions of women and girls worldwide and violate their fundamental rights. The resolutions approved urge countries to condemn all harmful practices that affect women and girls, in particular female genital mutilation, and to take all necessary measures, including enforcing legislation, awareness-raising and allocating sufficient resources to protect women and girls from this form of violence. The Secretary-General reiterates that ending violence against women remains a priority for the United Nations. His campaign UNiTE to End Violence against Women works in collaboration with governments and civil society to advance legislation, national action plans, social mobilization and data collection. In this context, the Secretary-General welcomes the COMMIT initiative, launched by UN Women on 25th November 2012, to highlight concrete new steps by governments to end violence against women. The Secretary-General commends the twelve member states that have announced new commitments in this regard and urges others to do the same. For details, log into http://manama.unic.org

An initiative started by Ms Martina Strauss, PA to Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel’s General Manager, is today a set practice on the hotel premises! Leftover food from the hotel’s kitchens is given to the Charity of Tony, Bahrain’s own “Dogfather’’, on a daily basis. Tony rescues abandoned, stray, abused and injured animals. He then evaluates, rehabilitates and re-homes them. If the animals are old, handicapped or have special needs, they can stay with him for the rest of their lives in air conditioned

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel tells Season of Goodwill and Giving!

kennels. Through the ‘Cats Society of Bahrain and Pet Animals’ Tony financially sustains his charity by offering pet grooming services to the general public and by donations from very kind animal lovers. “We wanted to do something useful for society,” says Ms Strauss. “Tony is

a great man and he does a lot for these animals and we are just doing our bit to help out. We hope that this initiative will not stay unique to Kempinski; in fact we would love to see every hotel do this. It doesn’t cost us anything extra and we actually reduce waste, which in turn benefits

these animals.” This drive was initiated in May 2012 and has been a success every day. Tony sends a driver to pick up the food and it doesn’t give Kempinski any additional costs. So whether you are a restaurant, a hotel or a supermarket, instead of throwing away the leftover food, please donate it to those who need it. The act of giving should be done daily and consistently.

We applaud Kempinski for being a part of this noble cause!

Bahrain Confidential how we can give back to society.

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“The four new chronographs for women premiered at Baselworld, the top World Watch and Jewellery show.”


Poetry

David Hollywood David Hollywood David Hollywood

David Hollywood David Hollywood David HollywoodDavid Hollywood David Hollywood David Hollywood














David Hollywood

To contact the artist, Tel. +973 3920 7624 or email: [email protected] or [email protected]

What’s the true What lies!, in truth,When morals aren’t sincere?Are principles just thoughts in words,If ‘nothing ……. s’ sensed? As clear!

Does candour look for scruples,In the shadows of a sleuth?Or search around for honour,In the shades of words uncouth?

Does falseness greet pretension, Applauding its deceit?And treachorise our ethics,With favours, like conceit.

Reclining then between what’s true,And feelings of distrust,Betrays the disbelief we muse, Duplicit in its thrust.

Disloyal spoken images,Adorn our sense of phrase, To degradate the worship of,Untruths which sooth to praise.

Integrity won’t represent,What honesty denies,In tricks that turn to twirl and twist. Humility’s reply’s what’s missed !

And mocking at what’s lost to jeers,Ensure’s what’s not sincere, As fabricated life pretends,Immodesty’s our friend.

Intuitive resolve predicts,Which tributes shall conflict,While vanity is indiscreet,And arrogance a cheat?

When friendship is deceptions claim,Fidelity, becomes our shame.

essence of relationships if our spoken

truth is made of lies?

Dav

id H

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David Hollywood

What Lies! … in Truth?

MANAMA - 1725 3397 | MODA MALL - 1753 4998 | SEEF MALL - 1758 0565CITY CENTER - 1717 9012, 1717 9317 | BUKAWARA - 1777 4061 | AL AALI - 1758 1085

KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Art Space


‘If Walls Could Talk ...’

Budding Artists Express Innovation and Creativity

on Bahrain’s Art Canvas.

Category: Mixed Media on Canvas, 120 cm x 120 cm (2012)Creation: HomeworkArtist: Mercedes Gonzalez de Garay

Bahrain Financial Harbour under the patronage of Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, organised an art exhibition. Creative and innovative displays by young and budding artists in the kingdom adorned the 275 sq meter art space. The exhibition was titled ‘If Walls Could Talk’ and explored the defining characteristics of walls as physical structures or theoretical barriers, resulting in an introspective examination of social and cultural issues.

Category: Graphite and Pencil on Card, 113 cm x 81 cm (2012)Creation: Echo, Artist: Yasmin Sharabi

Art Space

23January 2013 | Bahrain Confidential |

‘If Walls Could Talk ...’

Category: Mixed Media on Card, 113 cm x 81 cm (2012)Creation: UntitledArtist: Dalia El Mardi

Category: Photography (2012)Creation: ‘Hole in the Wall’ - Kayakoy, Turkey Artist: Khalil Rasool

Category: Mixed Media on Canvas (2012)Creation: UntitledArtist: Hanin El Mardi

Category: Graphite and Pencil on Card, 113 cm x 81 cm (2012)Creation: Echo, Artist: Yasmin Sharabi


Art Space

Timings: 8th December 2012 to 10th January 2013 Sunday to Thursday, 10am-7pm and Friday and Saturday, 12pm-6pmVenue: Bahrain Financial Harbour Fine Art Gallery

For more information contact +973 1710 2600 or visit www.ifwallscouldtalkexhibition.wordpress.com

Art Exhibition Details

Category: Photographic Print on Paper (2009), Creation: 2pac: Keep Ya Head Up. Fes, Morocco, Artist: Rana Jarbou

Category: Digital Print Wallpaper, 367 cm x 120 cm (2008)Creation: Domestic DisturbanceArtist: Jenine Sharabi

Category: Mixed Media on Canvas (2012), Creation: The Old Grain ShedArtist: Frances Stafford

Category: Mixed Media on Canvas (2012), Creation: Untitled, Artist: Leon D.

Category: Acrylic on Canvas, 40 cm x 100 cm (2012)Creation: In Search of the SimorghArtist: Karima Sharabi


Bahrain

John R Ridley

Letter From Bahrain

What am I doing here … I wish none of this had happened …”In the opening sequence of a film, made by Scottish school children, a young teenage

boy reflects upon events leading to his imprisonment. As the story develops, an incident leads to pressure to respond with tragic consequences.

The teenager had, throughout his life, been pressured by his father and wider social group to hate “them”; it’s a story that can be repeated across the world time and time again.

We have all been there, seen it and felt it, the intense pressure to act in certain ways, to change our attitudes and values and to adopt a different set of standards. With a fear of rejection, the individual rarely considers what lies behind the pressure to conform, succumbing, often against their better judgement.

The film showed how hatred of “them” had been implanted into the minds of the younger population for generations - fathers influencing their sons, who in turn influenced their sons. More than an extreme emotional reaction, hatred is used to manipulate entire communities through, fear and ignorance.

With Gaza so recently in the news, we have witnessed the consequences of hatred yet again. Imagine a young Israeli girl leading a comfortable life - she is unlikely to have ever met a Palestinian. Yet she may speak of Palestinians and Arabs with hatred - demonstrating the effectiveness and the

power of peer pressure in creating an ideology of hatred, used to influence a population.

The pointlessness of hatred only becomes apparent to the teenage boy’s father as he reads of the tragic events in the newspaper. The teenager is confused, raised to hate “them” he cannot understand his father’s shock and anger. “Why” he asked “was Dad so upset

and angry after what he had always said?”Only in prison does he come to understand

that “they” are no different from “us”.Peer pressure

does not need to be destructive, it is increasingly used to change attitudes and behaviour for the better, be it peers encouraging academic or sporting success, or in guiding others back from antisocial or damaging behaviour.

Across the UK during the 60s and 70s there was a campaign to solve the problem of litter in local areas and communities - Keep Britain Tidy. It was a huge success, today most of the population considers littering to be socially unacceptable. But, it is essential to maintain the pressure, or we may slip back into our old ways.

“Peer pressure does not need to be destructive; it is increasingly used to change attitudes and behaviour for the better ... guiding others back from antisocial or damaging behaviour.”

Singapore has long had a different approach to litter; using high fines, but these penalties have proved to be increasingly ineffective. Community based educators are now successfully using peer pressure to promote cleanliness and a clean

environment.The International Red Crescent

societies use peer education to encourage behavioural change. It works in the same way as peer pressure - educators who

identify with, and share the same background as their peers, communicate more easily with “marginalised or vulnerable” groups.

If the recipients of the message can relate to the messenger, they are more likely to adopt a change in their attitudes and behaviours.

As the film draws to a close, the teenager reflects upon the tragic events. “If I have kids,

they won’t make the same mistakes I did” he tells us.

Peer education can be used constructively by governments and other organisations to change people’s behaviour. No matter who we are, or our position within society, we all have a part to play in ending conflict and sectarianism for the benefit of the of whole society.

I would appreciate your comments and feedback on this subject, comments

can be left at http://www.johnridley.nu/themandus where you can read the full article, the page includes a link to the original film

John Ridley, a Bahrain based writer, broadcaster and journalist, can be contacted [email protected]

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Business

Luxury connoisseurs can now enjoy BBK’s exclusive account privileges.

Al Wajaha, Redefining Personalised Service

ahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, BBK launched the Al Wajaha account – a unique banking service which guarantees account holders unparalleled financial, travel and lifestyle privileges. As an Al Wajaha

account holder the possibilities are infinite; from chartering a yacht, to ensuring a special event runs like clockwork, to revamping a wardrobe with the latest fashions, to finding front row seats for the hottest shows on Broadway, this service is a complete package for the luxury-lifestyle conscious customer. BBK prioritises customer-relationship and follows a detailed approach when it comes to customer satisfaction. The new Al Wajaha banking service has been designed to accommodate this priority thus

offering customers a one of a kind banking experience.

Al Wajaha customers are entitled to the Al Wajaha Visa Infinite Debit Card offering travel benefits, full-family multi-trip insurance, access to concierge services, emergency medical services and an ultimate shopping experience. Accepted all over the world, cardholders enjoy out-of-hours store access, extended warranties and purchase protection for total convenience and security. In addition, Visa can facilitate any emergency urgent payments required by communicating directly with the retailer, service provider or hotel. A priority pass card gives them access to over 600 airport lounges in over 300 cities worldwide. Account holders also enjoy an array of financial benefits which include special interest rates on loans, preferential rates on fixed deposits, an overdraft facility, higher point of sale spending limit and higher

ATM withdrawal limits, concessions on safe deposit lockers, and reduced fees on a number of bank services. Expert financial advice and access to a dedicated relationship manager is ensured. 24-hour assistance from BBK as well as Visa Global Emergency Services Hotline ensures that customers can enjoy travel arrangements, complimentary medical assistance, legal advice and professional childcare referrals. An emergency cash delivery service is also available directly to their destination-hotel.

An exclusive section at the elegantly designed Majlis Al Wajaha at BBK’s main branch is reserved for Al Wajaha customer banking services and operations. Not to forget a dedicated parking area at all BBK branches and financial malls

For more information call +973 1720 7770 or visit www.bbkonline.com

B

“BBK prioritises customer-relationship and follows a detailed approach when it comes to customer satisfaction.”

Majlis Al Wajaha at BBK’s main branch


GadgetsRule!

iTechbahrain.com’s Faisal Ebrahim gives us the lowdown

on the latest tech news

and gadgets to hit the market.

Lenovo Ideaphone P770 The new Android phone by Lenovo, IdeaPhone P770, boasts an outstanding battery life up to 29 hours of talk time, if in a stand-by mode, its battery life will last up to 644 hours. Other features of Lenovo’s flagship include a 4.5 inch IPS display with 960 x 540p, 1.2 GHz dual core processor, 1GB RAM, 4GB of built-in storage, 5mp rear camera and a VGA front camera, 8GB microSD card and 3G, WiFi, and GPS capabilities. Lenovo’s latest Android phone is now up for grabs at the price of BD105.

Nokia Asha 205 & 206 PhonesNokia is outing its latest Asha handset that features preloaded social networking apps such as Twitter and Facebook. Asha 205 is part of the Asha series launched by Nokia last year and the 2G handset comes in two variants, single or dual-SIM, and both having the Series 40 OS and QWERTY keypad. Known specs include an Express cloud-compression browser, a circular D-pad and a 2.4-inch landscape screen with an average colour reproduction. Another handset is Asha 206 which has the same features of 205 except for the numpad input. Both handsets will be hitting the stores for price of BD25.

Archos FamilyPadFamily owners can use this gizmo to do fun stuff such as playing digital board games. They can also play movies, share pictures or log in to social media sites. The FamilyPad has a big 13.3-inch display and boasts a 34cm HD screen with a 1080p resolution.

This device can act as a family organizer

and be displayed in the kitchen, common room or in the living room. The

device includes 8GB storage which can be expanded to 32GB with a micro SDHC, it runs with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream

Sandwich), a 1GB Ram and ARM cortex A8 CPU. External features include back and front camera at 2MP each, a Micro USB host 2.0, Micro SD slot and HDMI output. The new Archos FamilyPad costs BD167.

Maingear Nomad 15The amazing device has a 15.5-inces screen with 1,920 X 1,080 resolution. Mind you, the screen is also anti-glare for those gamers who prefer one. It runs on a Windows 7 operating system. Potential buyers can choose if they want NVIDIA’s GeForce GTX 670M, 675MX, etc. If you want the top-of the-line, you can get the 32GB RAM partnered with the Intel i7-3840QM quad-core chip which is clocked at 3.8GHz. When it comes to storage, you can choose between a dual 750GB HDDs and a dual 256GB SSDs. You can get the basic model at a whopping BD590.

Technology

The VMultra by Velocity MicroWires, USB ports,card readers, audio jack points, external hard drives … and more wires. Yes you get the picture; a typical computer setup that is a jumble of all those put together. The VMultra is the solution combining a USB hub, an SD card slot, a DVD±RW drive and 500GB of storage that connects to your PC or laptop via USB 3.0. Features include a DVD R/RW Optical Drive, 500GB, 2.5” SATA Hard Drive, Integrated SD Card Reader and 3 USB 2.0 Ports and Full Plug and Play Support. The VMultra will retail for around BD75.

BD75

BD105

BD25

BD165

BD590


Hospitality

Al Safir Hotel, Set To Welcome Guests After Major Renovation

Bahrain Confidential interviews Mr A Hameed Al-Halwachi, Managing Director at Al Safir about the hotel’s renovation.

he ISO certified Al Safir Hotel, in Juffair is opening its doors once again after a major revamp. The luxury four-star hotel has been renovated from scratch and the end result is remarkable! An impressive building and pristine interiors greet us – floral arrangements, one of the hotel-staff playing peppy notes on the trumpet, to mark the festive season, luxurious upholstery, divine

photography depicting Bahraini culture, adorning the walls, proactive staff, the works!

We ask Mr Al-Halwachi why the management chose to renovate what was already a beautiful hotel! “It’s been twelve long years since we’ve been in the market,” he shares, “it was about time we re-did our hotel, primarily because a substantial chunk of our business comes from accommodation. We’ve had good business over the last decade and renovation would help us provide our guests with better facilities.

Mr Al-Halwachi has seen Al Safir grow over the years. He tells us about his role in the renovation project, “When I began at Al Safir, I promised my superior that I’d stay with the hotel for the next 20 years and in these two decades build five hotels. I’m pleased to put on record that, with the help of my dedicated team I’ve managed to keep my word. We have today the Al Safir Hotel, the tower and Grand Safir. God willing, we will come up with our fourth, Safir City which is a five-star, by 2015. We started off in December 1999 with the bare minimum. It’s been challenging to put hotel policies together, recruit the best talent in the industry, set operations in our kitchens and handle the other aspects of the hotel.” Mr Al-Halwachi says, with a smile, that even for the renovation project he has gotten himself involved with almost every detail, even aspects like the colours of

Mr A Hameed Al-Halwachi

T


the carpets and the design of the door-knobs! “Al Safir has always had a policy of ‘clean business’,”

says Mr Al-Halwachi. “We’re not a night-club.” Al Safir brands itself as a ‘family hotel’ and targets the family business segment – corporate, military, airlines and the like. Talking of promotions to achieve this branding goal, Mr Al-Halwachi cites the example of the record-setting largest date cake by Al Safir in 2004; an initiative which was a big hit with families.

We ask if the hotel has any other promotions as part of its renovation project? “Not yet,” says Mr Al-Halwachi, “we want to go slow on this one. We want to further improve our service packages before we indulge in any kind of marketing. That said, we have customers pouring in already.” Al Safir encourages customer feedback as a way of service improvement. Every check-out is accompanied with assigned staff asking guests about their stay at the hotel. In addition to this verbal feedback guests are also asked to fill-up a form. “We’re lucky to have always received honest feedback which has helped us improve over the years,” says Mr Al-Halwachi. He immediately gives an example of how once a customer had passed on negative feedback about the hotel’s food. “I told our chef that our guests are not our ‘enemies’; they are our well-wishers and so we need to take their feedback with a positive spirit,” he shares.

“Like every person, I too love my country,” shares Mr Al-Halwachi. “Bahrain is a beautiful country and extremely safe for visitors.” Al Safir is now turning primarily to GCC countries for business. Mr Al-Halwachi believes that the island is an affordable holiday destination for this set of customers owing to its proximity to other GCC countries and offers the best in tourism. The hotel is planning a road show in February 2013 and there would be 50 percent discount programmes for families in the coming months. With premises done to the T and so many exciting programmes and offers in the pipeline Al Safir is all geared up to welcome its guests. “Hospitality is our heritage,” exclaims Mr Al-Halwachi; we couldn’t agree more!

For bookings call, Tel. +973 1782 7999 or visit: www.alsafirhotel.com

“God willing, we will come up with our fourth, Safir City which is a five-star, by 2015.”

Hospitality

Doctor By Day, Musician By

Night

People


“My inspiration for the music and lyrics comes from major events in my life, sometimes the themes revolve around hope, love, deception and betrayal.”

Photo by Chris Barnett

Hani Malik


People

Doctor By Day, Musician By

ani Malik is a 27-year old Bahraini who began playing music on the average Casio piano for kids. After years of self-practice and no professional training, Hani mastered music on

his own. Recorded in his apartment in Ireland while working and training as a doctor. “Dr” Malik provides the vocals, guitars, bass, and drums for this alternative-rock project. He’s returned to Bahrain and continues his family medicine training here and looks forward to becoming a successful doctor as well.

Hani has tried his hand at high school and college bands; he occasionally performs at local venues in the kingdom as well. His genre is alternative rock and post-grunge. “My inspiration for the music and lyrics comes from major events in my life, sometimes the themes revolve around hope, love, deception and betrayal,” Hani said, “Major events help you reflect and make it easier to write material about it.” However, one quality that is evident even in Hani’s sad and angry songs is the mention of hope and overcoming adversity.

All ten songs on “No Remorse” are inspired by events and experiences in Hani’s life and that of his loved ones. He mentions that from every word in the lyrics of a song, to every guitar riff or solo, each part of a song evokes an emotion and sometimes a memory too - whether pleasurable or not. “After all,” he says, “our experiences and reactions to them are what define our lives and our actions in shaping the future, right?”

Hani describes his music as “Post-Grunge meets Alternative Rock with a Progressive Metal influence with an Acoustic-guitar backbone.”

So how does a doctor separate the two different worlds of music and medicine? “At work I’m serious and completely focused. Once I leave work, I leave everything there and move to my musical passion,” Hani shares. “I don’t regard music as a career; medicine and music are parallel ambitions, one’s a career while the other’s a passion and I wouldn’t stop either.” Hani likes to refer to himself as doctor by profession and musician by passion. “I’m not into it for the fame or money … I’m a doctor, music is not a source of income for me, it’s a strong passion.”

Discussing the realm of music created locally, Hani pointed out that there is a abundant Bahraini talent. Unfortunately the youth doesn’t have much support to pursue the field. Hani’s parents have always been a great support for him. However he discusses that there are other parents who “just support” and “not encourage” kids to pursue music. “They passively sit back; it

Meet Hani Malik, a young Bahraini doctor with a parallel passion for music.

Hwould be nice if parents start to encourage and advance the talent you know … maybe attend a few performances!” Hani says.

Hani compiled “No Remorse” over a span of two years and looks forward to releasing a second album in three years time, depends on the success of his first album and other life projects. Speaking of those, where does Dr Hani Malik see himself in a few years? “Well, hopefully I’ll be married by then,” he says laughingly, “apart from that, I hope to finish training, and become a full-time practicing family physician at my own clinic. And if the opportunity comes, I’d love to perform outside Bahrain as well.”

In an advice to youth with musical aspirations, Hani says that one should keep persevering and look to improve on skills no matter how advanced you might think you are, because there’s always room for improvement. “Stay grounded and don’t let your ego get the better of you,” Hani warns, “Don’t give up and remember that song writing gets better as you mature.”

“I’m not into it for the fame or money … I’m a doctor, music is not a source of income for me, it’s a strong passion.”



For more information find Hani Malik on Facebook: www.facebook.com/hanimalikfm or Email: [email protected]: @HaniMalikFMListen to “No Remorse’ at www.soundcloud.com/hanimalikfm/ and purchase your CD at Room 2 Rock, Hamala and Euphoria, Seef Mall or online www.cdbaby.com/cd/hanimalik

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Step into style this season with the Steve Madden’s latest collection. This dynamic footwear brand will transform any woman’s style with sexy stacked heels and fabulous flats. The use of embellishments, aggressive platforms, bright prints and treated leathers make each pair of Steve Madden shoes its own fashion icon this season.

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Steve Madden is located at Ground Level, Bahrain City Centre, Tel. +973 1717 9380 and Level 1, Oasis Centre, Tel. +973 1748 4177.

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WOMEN’S FALL / WINTER COLLECTION

*Items may be on sale in most stores.


Fashion

Strike A Pose!Versace Fall/Winter 2012-13 Collection


Fashion

A sexy rock vibe sets the mood this season against a backdrop of dark seduction. Leather, velvet and rich satin are bound together with silver chains and metal mesh, giving a new metallic sheen to coats and dresses. A smooth round shoulder shapes jackets, while soft alpaca and astrakhan are mixed with a new take on chainmail. Flashes of silver reflect from curve enhancing bustiers on short dresses in bright orange and yellow. A strong femininity with a parallel glamour defines this season, utterly seductive and persuasive in its tone.

Versace is located at MODA Mall, Bahrain World Trade Centre.

Glamorously

The Versace man is an icon of masculinity. Tapping into diverse masculine cultures – military, biker, tribal leaders and more conventional authority figures – the collection presents a series of faux uniforms in bold colours and prints, incorporating rhinestone bombers, pea coats with fluro-fur collars, ‘flora-flage’ printed denim, and trompe l’oeil pajamas. The effect is one of rugged luxury and tough glamour!

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Fashion

Coach - Legacy Collection is a modern collection inspired by timeless styles in the Coach archives. Some silhouettes are updates of their most popular designs, while others are inspired by classics and finished with Coach details. Legacy includes special reissues of Bonnie Cashin designs and fabrics including the iconic 1968 Bucket Bag and kisslock, as well as the Legacy American Icons Collection—true American “working bags” like the Large Tote, inspired by editors’ bags; the Saddle Bag, an updated version of the original 1973 saddle bag, and the Duffle, a reinterpretation of the iconic Duffle Sac. Bold colours such as bright yellows, greens, fuchsia, reds and purples create a beautiful canvas of colours!

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The chic Autumn Maternity Wear collection is packed full of stylish pieces that can be mixed and matched with ease. From a trusty 24/7 dress that can be worn from day to night, to a staple white shirt, Mamas and Papas has designed key pieces that are easy, versatile, and essential for every mum-to-be. All styles are specifically designed and fitted to deliver comfort and style throughout your pregnancy.

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There are things which will always fascinate us- because they are rare, because they are beautiful or because they are things which give us more than we demand of them, individuality for example, or perfection, or simply the awareness of owning something unique.

The name of Maybach has stood for exceptional luxury for more than 80 years. And it stands for the very few things which are permitted to carry the Maybach name. Maybach Eyewear from IVKO GmbH is one of them.

As a high-end automobile brand, for decades Maybach has symbolized the most exacting demands on quality and luxury. Characteristics are intricately worked along with exquisite materials and outstanding design. The name and the standards of the exclusive Maybach brand are today carried by premium eyewear and accessories. An exclusiveness appreciated by a genuine connoisseur.

Wilhelm Maybach and his son Karl Maybach laid the cornerstone for a brand which has today grown into a legend. The most precise handcrafting and love of detail distinguish the characteristic style, appealing to all the senses. The models of the eyeglass collection from Maybach Eyewear unite traditional and modern aspects and have a firm place in the luxury eyewear sector.

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Beauty

Beauty Buzz

Gaga’s Debute Fragrance Plays the Dark Notes Lady Gaga Fame by Haus Laboratories is the first ever black Eau de Parfum that sprays clear and becomes invisible once airborne. A fusion of dripping honey, saffron and apricot nectar with a rich floral layer of crushed Tiger Orchid and Jasmine Sambac, this one’s a unique piece.

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Beauty

Unless otherwise stated, products are available at leading cosmetic outlets.

Colours of the Night Sky to Steal the ShowThe new Paris Blue Moonlight collection is definitely a must have this season. The intense colours - enchanting blue and a dash of silver - blend excellently with the winter mood and volumising mascara and ebony kohl enhance the smoky eye look to set you apart from the crowd. Transparent gloss for the lucious-lips factor, night-coloured nails and a dust of shimmer for the finishing touches and you’r set to sizzle.

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Porcelain Finish for Good-looking SkinClinique’s Pore Refining Solutions products are a fuss-free formula to skin that looks nourished and happy. Correcting Serum to tighten the pores, Instant Hydrator to control sebum production, Matte Hydrator to provide oil-free moisurisation and Instant Perfecting Makeup to give the smooth finish.

Get Stylish with Sepohra Sephora’s 36-shade range of eyesshadows will put you in the limelight this season. Complete the look with Big Fatty Mascara Urban Decay, Miss Deep Purple Eyeliner Patch and Outrageous Volume mascara. Matifying Pressed Powder and Soothing Primer Base Lissant promise porcelain skin with a long-lasting matte finish. Create a nail revolution with six hot nail-polish hues and New French Manicure Art Nail Patches, and pep-up the pout with Sepohra Rouge lipsticks.

BD20

BD26BD20

BD30

BD6.8

BD6

BD10.6

BD9.9

BD6.9

BD8.3

BD7.6


Beauty

Winters get our skin dry and flaky and facials are extremely beneficial not only to improve the look of the skin but it’s a treatment if followed regularly will help the skin retain its glow as years pass by. A good and professional facial fixes problems like dry, oily, sensitive or even combination skins.

Regardless of weather or month, deep cleansing facials help improve and restore circulation in facial skin cells. This rush of blood to the skin gives a healthy glow and plumps skin cells with vital nutrients and water. Though there is no way to stop the aging process, a variety of facial treatments does slow down the aging. Facials not only improve your skin but also enhance your mood, put you in a state of relaxation, aromatherapy uplifts your spirit and one feels totally pampered!

BellaCura also addresses the needs of the super busy woman with their Xpress Facial - a 20 minute facial massage for just BD2! An instant face lift for the women on the go!

BellaCura has a variety of facials including- fruit, deep cleaning and aromatherapy.

Hair loss, brittle, fizzy or dry hair is another issue which a majority of people suffer from in the Gulf. Apart from the weather, other reasons for weak hair are poor diet, lack of sleep, stress and lack of proper hair care which should include treatments that nourish the hair.

BellaCura has hair specialists which guide you on a variety of hair conditions. Their extensive range of hair treatments include - Aloe Vera, Hot Oil, Aminexil for resolving hair fall, deep root conditioning, absolute repair, treatments for unruly and frizzy hair. BellaCura also uses the L’Oreal range of products for all types of hair concerns.

To sum up their philosophy, the effervescent and friendly Fatima Dhorada, Managing Director, BellaCura says, “Most importantly, for getting amazing results, be happy and keep smiling!’’

The readers of Bahrain Confidential can now enjoy a ten per cent off on facials and hair treatments in January 2013!

So here’s to a month of joyous pampering in the new year!

BellaCura is open seven days a week. For booking an appointment, contact: Flat 31, Bldg 292, Road 22, Alfateh 324 Juffair. Tel. +973 1736 4955, +973 3661 4814. Email: [email protected] us on twitter: @bellacurasalon Find us on Facebook: Bellacura beauty lounge & salon

Get some TLC for your skin and hair at BellaCura.

Nourishing Facials And Haircare

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Health & Beauty

Dr Pierre R Clero

013 is here. The festivities are over and it is time for resolutions; time for a new ‘you’ for this year and for a lifetime! Our skin is the biggest organ of our body and it reflects our health and happiness. A beautiful radiant skin tells us how

healthy you are and how young you look. Try these fresh foods for supple youthful skin!

Strawberries: Eating more vitamin-C rich foods such as strawberries may help to ward off wrinkles and age related dryness. Vitamin-C‘s skin-smoothing effect is due to its ability to mop up free radicals produced from ultra-violet rays and junk food and also its role in collagen synthesis. Besides strawberries, other delicious foods rich in Vitamin-C are red bell peppers, papaya, broccoli and oranges.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes get their red hue from lycopene, a carotenoid that smoothens skin. Studies show that people with higher skin concentration of lycopene have smoother skin. Even watermelons and carrots help boost lycopene levels.

Tofu: Tofu and other soy foods, such as edamame and soymilk preserve skin firming collagen because they are rich in isoflavones. Studies show that isoflavones prevent collagen breakdown.

Tuna: Tuna and other Omega3 rich fish, such as salmon, sardines, herring, and trout keep your skin looking youthful thanks to the Omega-3 fat

Dr Pierre R Clero is also the President of the International Board of Regenerative Medicine and Bio-Cosmetic Surgery. Author of the best seller “Stop the Clock, A Winning Strategy to a Longer Life and Healthier Body.” For more information and appointments, call Patient Coordinator Faith at Tel. +973 3619 7919.

2

“Tuna and other Omega3 rich fish, such as salmon, sardines, herring, and trout keep your skin looking youthful thanks to the Omega-3 fat.”

Wonder Foods For Younger

Looking Skin

Ingredients: 500gms beans, rinsed (chickpeas, black-eyed peas or kidney beans) 200gms water-packed chunk light tuna, drained and flaked*1 large red bell pepper, finely diced½ cup finely chopped red onion½ cup chopped fresh parsley, divided4 tsp capers, rinsed1 ½ teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped½ cup lemon juice, divided4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, dividedFreshly ground pepper, to taste¼ tsp salt8 cups mixed salad greens

Method: 1. Combine beans, tuna, bell pepper, onion, parsley, capers, rosemary, 1/4 cup lemon juice and two tablespoons oil in a medium bowl. Season with pepper. 2. Combine the remaining 1/4 cup lemon juice, two tablespoons oil and salt in a large bowl. Add salad greens; toss to coat. 3. Divide the greens among four plates. Top each with the tuna salad.

*Chunk light tuna, which comes from the smaller skipjack or yellowfin, has less mercury than canned white albacore tuna. Women who are or might become pregnant, nursing mothers and young children should consume no more than 200gms of albacore a week; up to 300gms of canned light tuna is considered safe.

NutritionPer serving: 290 calories; 16 g fat (2 g saturated, 11 g mono); 12 mg cholesterol; 28 g carbohydrates; 17 g protein; 9 g fiber; 505 mg sodium; 638 mg potassium.

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin C (160 per cent daily value), Vitamin A (100 per cent daily value)

RECIPE

Mediterranean Tuna Antipasto Salad

Dr Pierre R Clero shares easy food-tips to cut the years gone by.


Success With Health

T

“Apart from lifestyle issues, humans are suffering from a lack of vitamins, minerals and sunlight.”

Surviving on heavy duty medicines for 30 years! Kingsley Dodwell gets fitter

and healthier the natural way!

Kingsley Dodwell after

Kingsley Dodwell before

his is the story of Kingsley Dodwell in Bahrain, who, with some mindful changes in his lifestyle and diet, overcame multiple health concerns. This is an inspiring and real life story for all of us

who are committed to improving our health and feeling fitter and stronger in the new year. Pooja Rajpal Kasala from Bahrain Confidential chats with Kingsley and gets a firsthand account of his journey from illness to supreme health.

Kingsley, an independent health researcher (among other things), struggled with health his entire life. Concerns of severe asthma, allergies, acne, scoliosis, heart palpitations and night terrors plagued him since the time he was born. He met doctors from around the world - New Zealand, Singapore, US, Germany, UK, Lebanon, Bahrain and some others but no one that could help him with his condition except put him on heavy medication including prescription drugs and antibiotics which further deteriorated his health. Kingsley lived on asthma inhalers, pain killers, anti-inflammatory, anti allergy and medicines as harmful as Isotretinoin for 30 years of his life.

Eventually, his body started to give up and he became severely ill. At this stage he realised that the doctors and the drugs, weren’t helping and he would have to stop antibiotics and other medication immediately. After stopping the medications, things got even worse for a while, before eventually taking an upswing! And today as we see him and interview him, he’s absolutely fit, medication free and full of energy! Not to miss his strong physique, rippling muscles, chiselled face and a joie de vivre has had quite a few of our colleagues drooling!

How did he do this! Well, it took him hundreds of hours of research, tons of books and many years of experimentation to get to where he is today.

According to Kingsley, ‘Humans have lost track of how ancient man used to live. Similar to animals in the wild, ancient man simply couldn’t eat three or more meals a day, there just wasn’t time or enough food available! The day was for working, hunting, gathering and simply staying alive. At night people

would light a fire, cook their food, eat and relax. This cycle of under eating in the day and overeating at night would ensure that their bodies, throughout the day, would burn fat (the primary fuel of the body) for energy, elevate GH (Growth Hormone) and stabilise

and how healthy they are as a result! Gorillas for example, in captivity (zoo) develop pretty much all the diseases humans do, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases etc. yet Gorillas in the wild have almost no health problems at all!

We asked Kingsley what other things people are doing wrong. ‘Apart from lifestyle issues, humans are suffering from a lack of vitamins, minerals and sunlight. Think about it, we are always fully clothed and either in the car, in the office or in the house! On top of this, we are all lead to believe that the sun is extremely dangerous, and should be avoided at all costs! As an example of the side effects, high cholesterol and blood pressure issues are directly related to a deficiency of cholesterol sulfate (and vitamin D3 sulfate), and can be corrected by safe sun exposure’.

‘People believe that diet soft drinks and sugar free chewing gum is okay to consume, when in actual fact the artificial sweeteners used to make these products are not only damaging the body, but are also the fastest way to get fat!’

‘How many people in the world use white table salt? Most people do. Is this healthy? No, of course not! Table salt is stripped of all its minerals and causes mayhem within the body. Himalayan rock salt is the original salt of the planet and contains all 84 minerals essential for life. These are just a few examples of what humans are doing wrong, but the list goes on and on.’ Says Kingsley.

His final statement summed it all up. ‘Our bodies have evolved over millions of years to complete perfection. It is our modern lifestyle that has made us weaker and fatter’.

Kudos to Kingsley, he may not be a doctor or a nutritionist but he’s got the results bang on!

Whether you’re looking for weight loss, muscle mass, or need to fix an annoying health issue, Kingsley is more than happy to help. He can be reached on [email protected]

Health

insulin’.‘In today’s world, people eat too

regularly. This is due to the overabundance of cafés and restaurants, but also because mainstream diet plans typically promote

eating six to eight meals a day. When people change their lifestyle and start eating instinctively, the benefits are amasing. Tiredness after lunch becomes a thing of the past, the mind becomes clear and the excess fat just disappears!

‘As with anything in nature, there should always be a balance. Cycles of under eating and overeating are a natural and healthful way of life’. He further added.

Kingsley’s argument seems valid, humans are very good at complicating things! Even with our intelligence and technology, we still can’t understand how our bodies work. You just have to look at animals in the wild to see how uncomplicated their lives are,

Health

Ayurvedic Pancha Karma

ust as we are now making New Year resolutions about changing something in ourselves or our lives, how about a transformation that instead focuses on the beauty and perfection that you already are and helps you bring it up to the surface?

The above question is the wisdom of the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda, which laid down the definition of health and well-being over 5000 years ago, and developed a method (Ayurveda literally means science of life) that helps one make their way back to their original birth constitution and feel completely at home in their skin. Remember those feelings from childhood when you were full of energy? Well according to Ayurveda – we can regain that energy that we once had as a child.

A simple way to define Ayurveda is to think of it as a holistic system of medicine from India that uses a constitutional model. Its aim is to provide guidance regarding food and lifestyle so that healthy people can stay healthy and people with health challenges can improve their health.

There are several aspects to Ayurveda that are quite unique: Its recommendations will often be different for each person regarding which foods and which lifestyle they should follow in order to be completely healthy. This is due to its use of a constitutional model. Everything in Ayurveda is validated by

Jobservation, inquiry, direct examination and knowledge derived from the ancient texts.

It understands that there are energetic forces that influence nature and human beings. These forces are called the Tridoshas.

Because Ayurveda sees a strong connection between the mind and the body, a huge amount of information is available regarding this relationship. Therefore Ayurveda is more than just an oil massage as many believe. In March there is going to be an Ayurvedic Pancha Karma detoxification and weight-loss retreat in the beautiful and ancient Kerala - the birthplace of Ayurveda. The intention behind this retreat is for individuals to lose weight, look younger, feel calm, focused, and happy.

This detoxification is accomplished through 5 actions with application of special medicated oils that penetrate deep into the body’s tissues, uprooting and dissolving long-stored toxins. As a result, they promise that your skin will look years younger, your organs and body systems will improve their functioning, the mind will quiet down and your body will affectively rejuvenate.

The daily program includes: Ten or 14 Ayurvedic Pancha Karma

Treatments with Dr P Shambhu Daily morning yoga classes and afternoon

meditations led by Liza Borodkin Strictly controlled Ayurvedic diet to support

detoxification and weight-loss Visit to temple Arts performances Interactive conference on Ayurvedic

medicine by Dr Sambhu Workshop on the Foundations of Well-

Being with Dr Khairallah Workshop on cooking immune-supporting

foods by Liza Borodkin

Who is Dr Sambhu?Dr P Shambhu is a 3rd generation Ayurvedic physician with over 22 years of service, who spends six months of every year in his native Kerala, and the other six months in the US and Europe - in each locale he performs the ayurvedic detoxification protocol Pancha Karma (5 actions). Dr Shambhu successfully addresses anything from weight-loss to chronic pain to deeply-seeded emotional issues. He makes his own oils from herbs grown in his native Kerala and prepared according to the ancient Ayurvedic tradition in his own production facility near his clinic. His unique expertise is knowing how to apply Ayurvedic principles to modern day’s pathologies - be it reducing stress for the busy Chicago financial traders, helping women with fertility issues, resolving allergies, cleansing the body from the pollution of heavy metals and excess hormones, or shedding unwanted kilo’s.

About Taj VivantaTaj Vivanta is a beautiful five-star resort that provides the perfect blend of modern luxury while honoring the lush natural landscape that surrounds it and celebrates the heritage of South India.

About the retreat locationKovalam (near Trivandrum) is located on the shore of the Arabian sea, with lush coconut groves and overwhelming greenery stretching for miles along and off the beach.

The full 10-day retreat cost is: 16th – 26th March

USD3,500 single occupancy USD2,600 per person, double occupancy

The full 14-day retreat cost is: 16th – 30th March

USD4,500 single occupancy USD3,200 per person, double occupancy

RegistrationThe deadline for registration is 21st January, 2013 via email to Liza Borodkin at [email protected]. Full payment is due at the registration. Please allow adequate time (minimum ten days) for processing a visa to India.

Who You AreBack To

Coming


16th - 26th March 2013

detoxification and weight-loss retreat.

Dr. Lucy LiuQualified practitioner in traditionalChinese Medicine and Acupuncture

Also now available chiropractic and medical massage

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture offers relief from chronic pain

Dr. Liu and her team offer specialist treatment for conditions such as:• Diabetes. Weight Loss. Migraine. Insomnia.• Strokes & Paralysis. Infertility. Impotence. Prostatis.• Stress/Nervous System problems.• Poor circulation. Rheumatism. Arthritis. Varicose Veins. Gout.• Joints, Neck, Shoulder & Lower Back problems• General pain relief.

For appointments & consultations please contact:

1766 4088 or 3964 1997Direct line: 3777 8922Under the medical supervision of Bahrain Medical Group

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Tickets on sale from 1st September from the Thrift Shop (Tel 17593479)Members BD28 Non members BD30

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Fashion Show

Sponsored byAfrican & Eastern, Affinity Consultants, Condor Technology,

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Health

John R Ridley

ruit and vegetable markets are truly exciting places, the hustle and bustle, the vibrant colours; the smells. Stalls are decorated with tomatoes,

carrots, cabbages, onions and aubergines, and overflow with pomegranates, plantain, oranges, mangos and berries.

Every nationality can be found buying or selling fruit and vegetables, imported from across the world for sale to Bahrain’s cosmopolitan residents, at the Central Market in Manama. Among the stalls lining the aisles there is always something to catch my attention, a new variety of fruit, fresh Indian zanjabil (root ginger), or competing aromas of nanaah (mint) and cardamon.

Across the Middle East, in competition with the large traders, communities are establishing farmer’s markets, selling produce from local

growers. Errin, a manager at Organic Food and Café in Seef Mall showed me Bahrain’s farmers market - it’s a hidden gem in Budaiya.

Errin is known across the Kingdom for innovative cuisine, so with a little persuasion and lift back to Manama, he agreed to let me use one of his recipes in this month’s column.

From their stalls, Bahraini farmers sell seasonal produce; tomatoes, aubergines, wild rocket, peppers, fresh herbs, peas, cabbages and broccoli; availability changes day by day.

With true Arabian hospitality, the traders make time to talk and let the inquisitive sample their produce, or even share a recipe - little tastes better than freshly picked fruit and vegetables transported just a few miles.

Making our way from stall to stall, sampling the fruits, vegetables and dairy produce, Errin told me that many seem surprised by the agriculture in Bahrain. “People just don’t think of working farms in, or on the edge of the desert.”

Fruit and vegetables are a colourful, tasty and nutritious addition to any meal. They provide

iron and calcium, vitamin C and vitamins A and K1. But the body can only absorb the nutrients in vegetables if animal fat or olive oil is included within a meal.

Fat, we are told, is bad for us, but this is a gross simplification, although processed fats such as those found in many cooking oils, biscuits and cakes should be avoided. Natural fats, found in eggs, meat, fish and cold pressed oils are essential for our wellbeing and aid nutrition. We have lived on animal fats for thousands of years, so go ahead, add a scoop of organic butter to your vegetables, not only is it essential for absorption of nutrients, they will taste even better.

One of the most enjoyable ways to eat fruit and vegetables is in a salad, a wonderful fusion of colours, textures and tastes. Errin’s recipe is a quinoa and cranberry salad. Dressed with virgin olive oil, the body will absorb the vitamins in the fresh ingredients.

Quinoa (for those of us “in the know” is pronounced “keen-wah”), it’s a seed, high in protein, iron and fibre with a slightly nutty taste and grainy texture. Practice the pronunciation and experiment with it in your cooking, you will soon come to love Quinoa.

Making a salad is rather like writing a good magazine article, use imagination, experiment, be creative, try fresh ingredients and see how

it turns out. In your cooking, experiment with the increasingly available traditional grains and seeds, and you will discover a world of tastes and textures that were common in our diet until just one or two generations ago.

Ingredients50 g diced carrot50 g diced celery50 g roasted pumpkin seed50 g dry cranberriesHalf shredded red apple125 g quinoa500 ml chicken or vegetable stock

DressingJuice from half of one lemon40 ml Sesame oil (or to taste)300 ml Honey25 ml olive oil¼ tsp garlic salt

Method for Quinoa and Cranberry Salad1. Roast the quinoa in a frying pan over a low heat until the seeds begin to turn brown. 2. Bring the stock to the boil in a large pan and add the roast quinoa, simmer until the seeds begin to separate and thicken.3. Drain and spread the quinoa on a baking sheet leave until completely dry.4. In a bowl, gently fluff the quinoa with a fork, and then thoroughly mix with the vegetables and dry ingredients. 5. Slowly add the dressing, carefully mixing continuously to prevent the honey settling. 6. Serve on a bed of mixed green leaves and garnish with cherry tomatoes and pomegranate seeds.

If you try the salad, feel free to invite me to sample it, I can be at your dining table in less that thirty minutes!

John Ridley is a Bahrain based writer, broadcaster and journalist who has lived and worked in the Middle East for more than thirty years. He can be contacted at [email protected]

Add Colour And Nutrition To Your Food

John Ridley advises eating fresh fruits and veggies and talks of the best markets in Bahrain.

F

Visit www.ghostwriting.me


Health

Change your look for the New

year. Up your fitness quotient!

Enhance your looks! Detox!

Transform your personality. Be a

brand new YOU in 2013.

New Year. New You.

From your hair to your skin to your smile, we’ve got ideas to help you look good and feel great in the New Year.

Detox with WaterPartying, drinking and eating all taking their toll on skin? Flush it out with gallons of water!

Be Kind to Your BodyAvoid red meats, dairy products and processed foods and opt for lots of fruit and vegetables and wholegrain foods instead.

Go FishingFishing is very relaxing for the mind! We in Bahrain are lucky to be surrounded by sea, so go and make the most of it!

Get MovingThirty minutes of moderate exercise a day will help you get rid of those excess Christmas pounds! Exercise is good for your heart, lungs, muscles and bones, as well as for improving your mood and giving you a sense of well-being. So climb stairs! Or run a marathon!

Add a Green Juice to Your DayGreen juices are an amazing way to add life giving and detoxifying plant chlorophyll to your bloodstream. Try our favourite combo with - celery, cucumber, lemon, parsley and apple juice.

Feel great the natural way!

Breathe Deep into Your AbdomenDeep breathing, where you fill your belly and expand your diaphragm downwards, is one of the most powerful exercises you can do to activate your lymph system which helps to detoxify your body. Think of the lymph system as your own personal garbage removal system! Contact Mariya Rupawala Juzer of Art of Living, Tel. +973 3667 9510.


Health

blocks or unbalances your chi and Acupuncture is a way to unblock or influence chi and help it flow back into balance.Acupuncture is done by putting very thin needles into your skin at certain points on your body. This is done to influence the energy flow. Acupunture heals a variety of conditions from headaches, low back pains, tennis elbows to asthma and osteo arthritis.For more details, contact. Dr. Lucy Liu, Tel. +973 1766 4088, +973 3964 1997, +973 3777 8922.

Cleaning Inside Out! Colon CleaningThe practice of natural colon cleansing dates back to ancient Greece. The process is intended to remove feces and nonspecific toxins from the colon and intestinal tract. Colon cleansing may take the form of colon hydrotherapy or oral cleansing regimens, such as dietary supplements. Benefits range from weight loss to increase in abdominal muscle tone, it reduces inflammation and relieves gynecological disorders such as cystitis. For more details contact, Tel. +973 1741 0055.

Tired of the same ol’ workout? These expert-

approved fitness trends are sure to

shake up your

Sticking Pins for Better Health with AcupunctureAcupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that has been practiced for centuries, based on the theory that energy, called chi, flows through and around the body along pathways called meridians. Acupuncturists believe that illness occurs when something

Get-Set-Zoom with Aerobics!Aerobics combines rhythmic aerobic

exercise with stretching and strength training routines with the goal of improving all elements of fitness (flexibility, muscular strength, and cardio-vascular fitness)

Dance WorkoutsWith blasting music, high-energy routines, and non-stop movement,

these classes are more than fun. They’re also a

great cardiovascular workout. An average Zumba “fitness party” burns

more than 300 calories. Plus, by engaging

your entire body, dance workouts

ranging from ballet to Bollywood can hit muscles

traditional workouts miss.

Bike your Butt Off with SpinningSpinning, or studio cycling, is an excellent workout to strengthen your heart and tone your legs!

Ultimate Workout @Extreme FitnessExfit - The system developed in USA focuses on core strength and conditioning, is a hit throughout the world. The program incorporates cardio, stamina, flexibility, power, speed and coordination. Not one session is ever repeated therefore you are never bored! Think boot camp at its meanest delivering the best results!To try out a free session. Tel. +973 3953 3130. Or email: [email protected]

TRXCreated by the US Navy Seals, this format involves Suspension Training which enables a fast and effective body work out!Contact, Life-Fit: +973 17692424,Kinetix: +973 1758 3388.

Dream BodyPromises results in just 23 minutes per workout! This exercise uses hydraulic machines offering double action. Push with

New Year!

Extreme Fitness


Health

Food! Food! Fix your hair!

Wellness CoachingFitness is more than just exercise or nutrition, it’s a lifestyle. That’s why wellness coaches are getting to be more and more important, offering guidance on long-term changes people can make to get fit for good. They offer a one-on-one approach similar to that of personal trainers, but look holistically at a person’s lifestyle to determine which healthy behaviour modifications and strategies to put into place. Contact Kelly Armatage, Tel. +973 3993 1399.

Get the Weight Off Your Mind! With Gastric Mind BandThe Gastric Mind Band (GMB) Therapy was created at the Elite Clinic in Spain by Martin and Marion Shirran and involves being hypnotised into thinking that you’ve had gastric band surgery! The Gastric Mind Band (GMB) is Surgery Free. The sessions are designed to produce a certain result to take the person on a journey of discovery that will culminate in them achieving their Desired Weight Loss and, more importantly, being able to maintain it for the rest of their life! The treatment is now available in Bahrain at A Better Life with Eman Nooruddin, Tel. +973 1721 1311.

Fresh StartFrom one to three months the programme incorporates consultation, sessions with dieticians, lab tests to diagnose the concern, gym, physiotherapy, cosmetology and a lot more! So for a complete overhaul head to Royal Bahrain Hospital, Tel. +973 1724 6832.

Watch Food for Weight!Get customised and balanced meals at your doorstep! And mind you they are tasty!Call, Carlton Nutrition Centre: +973 1725 5044, Diet Delights: +973 1753 4499, Health Watchers: +973 1781 1449, Vida: +973 1753 4999.

Smile Worthy Teeth!Get the sparkle back in your teeth! Head to Dr Ali Juffairy, +973 1727 3700.

Pearly white

Crowning GloryAnswer your hair problems and get a stunning new makeover with hair transplant!Contact. Dr Pierre R Clero, Tel. +973 3619 7919.

Rapunzel Envy! Get gorgeous tresses in a jiffy! No pins, glue, clips or weave! Wear your new hair as simply as you would don a hair band. Get thicker, longer and healthier hair in minutes. For more information, Email: [email protected]

It’s time to step out of our comfort zone and get cracking on shaking up our look. Try these easy tips, and you’ll feel like a whole new you in no time.

one set of muscles and get the machine in its original position using another set of muscles! Double workout with slimming and toning in the least amount of time!Dream Body Centre, Bahrain Mall, +973 1761 3352.

Warm Waters in Winter!Swim at the indoor, temperature controlled pool at Al Safir Hotel in Juffair! Soak in the warm waters and beat the chill out!Contact the Health Club, Tel. +973 1781 3815.

Fitness in the Lap of LuxuryYoga, Zumba, Pilates, dieticians and tailor made fitness programmes at Sofitel Bahrain. How much more luxurious can it get!For reservations or enquiries call, Tel. +973 1763 6363 or Email: [email protected]

Feel great, look great!

Food!

After

Before


Opinion

Kelly Armatage, our resident Counsellor, Life Coach and CBT Therapist outlines how judgement and criticism of others is a reflection of our own low self esteem.

Kelly Armatage

udgement, criticism, gossip, assumptions and condemning others are the behaviours of a low self-esteemed person, with imprisoned thinking. Judging makes us believe we are safe and comfortable because we’ve ‘defined’ a person and due to having that

‘definition’, we think we know how to act from that point on. It can be traced back to primitive days when we needed to make a quick evaluation of someone, to see if they posed as a threat.

What is a judgement or a criticism? Well it is the negative thought or perception of another. It is the story we tell ourselves in our mind, based on a current or past ‘behaviour’ of another. Yet is that negative thought or perception the whole story? One view, one assumption, one action or even a few interactions are not the foundation that means our judgements are proof, evidence and 100 per cent correct. There is always something else, there is always another way to view the situation and there is always much more information (outside of the negative opinion) than meets the eye.

Secondly, our values and belief systems are not another’s values and beliefs and if that person does not co-operate with what we believe is ‘right’, you may feel inclined to judge. However, have you ever noticed how you feel after a marathon gossip session? If you were to do a check of your feelings at this specific time, you will notice the depressed

emotions from within your heart. Our hearts are naturally compassionate organs and after a judgement or criticism of others, we feel low, weighted down and sad.

Judging ourselves or others is a debilitating way to think and act. There is always a better, kinder and certainly more truthful way. A way of thinking that

resides in acceptance, compassion and understanding of your own strengths and other people’s strengths. One good way to measure your self esteem (how much you like, value and appreciate yourself) is to look at how often you form ‘opinions’ of others. If you are forming negative stories of others within your mind, then be sure

there is a lack of acceptance of yourself, therefore your own self esteem is low. When someone has a high self esteem, they are aware of their own strengths and weaknesses and accept them (with no negative judgement). Someone with a high self esteem is also aware of other people’s strengths and weaknesses and accept them too (with no negative judgement).

It is through the acceptance of ourselves and others that we release all negative internal and external interactions. By focusing on the good within ourselves and the good within others ensures gossip and judging is kept to a minimum and that a healthy, happy and peaceful life is gained.

Tips to understand and overcome judging (and being judged):• Know that if you gossip about others, this reflects your lack of happiness within yourself.

• See the other side of the story – there is always another thought, idea, perception, belief that can be created that has a higher truth.• Those that judge often feel envy towards another’s success; if this is you, evaluate where you might hold a negative thought towards your own past achievements and future goals.• Know that if others are gossiping about you; this reflects their inner unhappiness, lack of acceptance and nurturing of negative emotions such as resentment, anger and envy.• Look for ways to encourage, support and praise yourself and ways to encourage, support and praise others. As you wish success and happiness outwards, a boomerang of goodwill is returned.

In summary, judging others or yourself is a confined way to think and live. Judging others or yourself serves nobody; it nurtures low self esteem, disconnected relationships and teaches your children to ‘model’ the same behaviour. The opposite technique of thinking kind thoughts, saying kind words and the acceptance of people’s differences feels joyful and creates much contentment. The ‘jail of judgement’ does not have to be a prison in which your mind is held captive via opinionated thoughts. There is a freedom from this caged way of thinking via acceptance, but you are the judge that sets the bail

Kelly Armatage Inc - Offering Counselling, Life Coaching and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Sessions. For enquiries, Tel. +973 3993 1399 or visit www.kellyarmatage.com

All feedback on Kelly Armatage Inc’s services and services is always greatly received. Please email: [email protected]

J

“Judging ourselves or others is a debilitating way to think and act.”

The Jail Of Judgement

Judgement or criticism is the negative thought or perception of another

Travel

An array of skiing destinations both near and far from Bahrain.

Skiing Winter

Destinations

MoroccoWant to ski in Africa during January and February? Then Morocco is the option.

There are two ski resorts in Morocco where snow is expected to fall and guests can rent ski equipment. Both of these ski resorts would not cost you more than USD25 for the day. Cross country skiing is available throughout the Atlas Mountains but you should think over bringing your own equipment and camping supplies as the shelters are particularly fundamental. Moroccan ski resorts amaze the guests with the sceneries surrounding the ski areas, as one slides the slopes in the desert. Long for adventure and get away from routine? Head for Moroccan ski resorts that cater to vacation with a flavour of Africa’s charm!


LebanonLebanon has six ski resorts and a season that usually lasts from

December to March. The biggest resorts - Faraya-Mzaar above Beirut and The Cedars to the north - lure an increasing number of foreigners, mainly from the nearest countries. Ski resorts in Lebanon are usually compared to those in Europe catering

top snow conditions and unbelievable slope skiing. Experience sliding down the hills in one of the most ancient and intriguing areas in the Middle East!

SpainSpain is the second most mountainous country in Europe (the first one is Switzerland), offers superb skiing conditions

regardless of its comparatively southern location. There are plenty of Spanish ski resorts not only in the Pyrenees in the north, but also as south as the Sierra Nevada in the south of Spain. Resorts are nested in the proximity to the major cities, like Madrid and Barcelona. Major Spanish ski resorts cater to snowboarders as well. The most privileged skiing in Spain is considered to be in the Pyrenees. Ski resorts in Spain provide a full range of services and high-quality ski conditions. Marvellous mountain views and abundant non-ski options are among the main attractions of the Spanish ski resorts. Turkey

Skiing and Alpine skiing are not popular among Turks. But they are very attentive to

the whims of their foreign guests: they build new hotels, lay downhill trails, launch lifts, and organise entertainment programs. Every good hotel has a night club for adults and mini-club for children. Fitness centres always have swimming pool, Jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, gyms and massage. Snow on the tops of Turkish mountains lasts 170 days per year on average. Developed ski zones of this country are the spurs of Uludag Mountain (near Bursa city), Palandoken massif (Erzurum), Saklikent (Antalya), and Sarykamysh (Kars). Visitors can ski groomed trails and chaste slopes in the mysterious atmosphere of the ancient country.

FinlandFinns extended their love onto Alpine skiing, though the country’s landscape doesn’t

allow it to compete with major European Alpine skiing countries. The highest mountain of Finland is Halti (1365 m). However, even low hills here have lifts and prepared slopes for snowboarding and freestyling. Ski resorts in Finland offer a full range of services, facilities and options. Nobody will get bored here as Finland has lots to boast besides skiing conditions. Going to Lapland one shall know the terms of polar night. Northern lights most often appear between September to October and February to March.


ItalyItalian Alps stretching along French, Swiss, Austrian, and Slovenian border is real

paradise for those who go in for winter sports. And though the Apennines, Abruccia and Kalabria regions also have alpine skiing centres the majority of skiers choose winter Alps. But “winter” is not the right word. High Italian glaciers are open for skiing all year round. Ski-pass in Italia enables to move free between various centres and over various slopes within the entire region. In addition to multiple sport opportunities it is convenient for those who do not want to live in the most expensive hotels.

FranceFrench ski resorts are famed as elite and prestigious ones. The developed infrastructure of the tourism

here caters to first class services and different kinds of accommodation. Its 80 centres can host about one million visitors. The high-tech lifts and well-groomed trails provide joy to the resorts’ guests, as the lift network here is the most developed in the world and it services a large ski area. Numerous apres-ski options are provided at French ski resorts: lots of restaurants, nightclubs, cinemas, shopping facilities and many more.

SwitzerlandSwitzerland is Europe’s pristine country of lakes and mountains. If you want to

try skiing in Europe or if it is usual vacation for you, Switzerland is one of the best destinations here. World class ski resorts are Swiss main attraction. Well-developed ski lift network and mountain transportation will take you into the marvelous ski dream country, and some of the best European lodgings and dining facilities cater the comfort to you in Switzerland. You may also set off for a wining and dining tour here. Top Swiss skiing destinations are: Arosa, Crans-Montana, Davos, Films, Grindelwald, Gstaad, Les Diablerets, Saas-Fee, St Moritz, Verbier, Villars and Zermatt.

USAThe ski resorts here are as diverse as

the climate and landscape of the country. You may consider numerous options catered as the infrastructure here is world-class, the standards of skiing conditions were actually founded here. The Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Appalachian Mountains in New Hampshire, Sierra Nevada mountain range in California and Nevada and breathtaking Alaskan Mountains are among the best skiable areas in the world. The ski resorts here cater the utmost service, in addition to varied and numerous non-ski activities as well as vigorous apres-ski life.

Travel

New ZealandSuperb New Zealand holidays can be relished all over the Southern Alps which

form the range of the South Island. At the foot of the Alps one can visit the resort town of Queenstown enclosed by four of the prime New Zealand ski resorts and limitless heli-ski options. Queenstown is a New Zealand ski holiday paradise with plentiful ski package choices. New Zealand ski areas are ideal for your ski holiday. They cater terrain for all levels of skiing ability with abundant possibilities for ski adventures and an ideal New Zealand ski holiday. Each area has a special novice area where you can safely train the skills to defy the slopes above.

Feature

Raises The Steaks

AAustralia

s one of the world’s greatest food producing nations Australia deserves and enjoys a reputation for excellence so it comes as no

surprise that Australia produces some of the world’s greatest meat, says celebrity chef Tarek Ibrahim.

With Australia Day on 26th January, Bahrain Confidential set out to find out more and ended up going back for seconds and thirds!

Meating Out the TruthAustralia may be famous for many things; its movie stars like Hugh Jackman, Nicole

Kidman and pop icon Kylie Minogue but its

greatest kept secret is a culinary one - the quality of its delicious halal meat. Chef Tarek explains:

“When talking about meat, for

me it has to be Australian. For

the last seven

years I’ve only been buying Australian meat,” he says with a big smile on his face.

But his happy demeanor turns serious briefly, as he says: “It’s the only country in the world where I truly trust the halal and food safety systems.”

But immediately the sunny, happy face we are used to seeing on our TV screens returns: “Of course, it’s also almost as important that it’s utterly delicious and a dream to cook with for anyone from a top executive chef to the home cook.”

A Cut AboveWhen asked to explain, the star of Fatafeat TV, goes on to give us more gastronomic secrets behind how to make the most of this fantastic product from down under: “Whether grilling, stewing, roasting or barbecue there’s a different cut for each and it’s important before you start cooking to think about what sort of occasion you’re planning.

In the KnowKnowledge really is power when it comes to your food. Something chef Tarek is passionate about.

“Knowing where your food comes from is essential and ensures you’ll have a safe and deliciously satisfying eating experience every time.”

CHEF TAREK’S TOP TIPS Always know where your meat

comes from Buy Australian and stick to the brand

you like Be adventurous! Try different cuts,

cooking techniques Don’t be afraid! Ask your butcher or

waiter for a recommendation Ask your butcher to cut your steaks

no less than 25mm

FACT BOX Red meat is one of the best sources of five essential

nutrients Red meat (beef, veal, lamb and mutton) is an important

source of top quality nutrients (iron, zinc, omega-3, B

vitamins and protein)

Consumed three times a week by most Australians,

red meat plays an important role in the Australian diet – it

is the largest contributor of readily available iron and zinc

and the second largest contributor of omega-3, after fish

Consuming red meat three-four times a week makes it

easy to meet your iron and zinc needs

With less than 4 per cent saturated fat, trimmed red

meat has the Heart Foundation’s Tick of Approval

It’s interesting to note that Australian cattle and lamb graze in nutrient rich pasture, in an ideal climate. Be it beef or lamb, Australian meat offers a wide range of cuts, in both grass and grain fed varieties.

According to chef Tarek; “What’s truly amasing is that you can genuinely surf between flavours and textures; for example, if you like steak that has a light and gentle flavour choose grain-fed beef and for a deeper flavour go for the grass-fed selection – and this is only just breaking the surface!”

So, visit www.lambandbeef.com for top tips and recipes and throw another steak on the barbie!

Chef Tarek


Mihin Lanka is the budget airline of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and commenced operations in 2007. Traveling with Mihin Lanka is an experience of itself as cordial and well trained staff is committed to ensuring you have a pleasant flight and are at all times comfortable. It is the only budget airline that serves complimentary refreshments to passengers.

Mihin Lanka operates its international flights from Bandaranaike

International Airport and the airport is equipped

with up-to-date aircraft landing systems. It

also boasts modern facilities and

terminals where passengers

are offered

a wide range of services.

Mihin Lanka to connect you to Madurai, Delhi and much more!Mihin Lanka has been adding new destinations as they successfully grow as a well-reputed budget airline. The new flight schedule will take off on 7th December.

Madurai: One of India’s most famous temple cities, Madurai is located in the banks of river Vaigai and has a rich cultural heritage going back to over 2,500 years. One of the oldest cities in India, Madurai has been an important commercial and cultural centre since as early as 3rd century BC. Having served as the capital city of the Pandyan dynasty – referred to by Marco Polo as ‘the richest empire in existence’ – Madurai is recorded as one of

the longest serving continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Delhi: One of the most ancient cities in the world that has now evolved into a busy metropolis. At the crossroads of culture and innovation, Delhi will offer you unforgettable memories that are not found elsewhere. Mihin Lanka will be flying to Delhi soon.

Dubai, Sharjah, Tiruchirapully, Varanasi, Jakarta, Gaya, Dubai, Dhaka and Bahrain are other stations covered by Mihin Lanka Airlines.

Detailed flight information, promotions and prices can be found online at www.mihinlanka.com or email: [email protected] Tel. +973 1722 4819.

Let Mihin Lanka Connect You to the World.

Mihin Lanka, Sri Lanka’s Budget Airline

CASABLANCA HOTEL

Boutique Hotel now renovated and opened under new management with a touch of warmth and service of international standards,

exclusive of its kind in Bahrain.

الفندق ا�نيق تم تجديده وإعادة افتتاحه مؤخرا تحت إدارة جديدة مع لمسة من الدفء وخدمة عالية وفقا للمعايير الدولية؛ فندق فريد من نوعه في البحرين

For Reservation CallTel. +973 1723 4444, Fax: +973 1724 3666

E-mail: [email protected] www.casablancahotelbah.com

Our Exclusive Outletso Planet Arabic Restaurant with Live Musico C.D Indian Restaurant with Live Musico Amazon Coffee Shop - 24 hourso Prince Restauranto Pearl Sports Baro Zu Zu Lounge & Disco Special Corporate Room Rate

Weekday Weekend

Single Room BD18/- BD20/-

Double Room BD22/- BD25/-

Executive Room BD35/- BD40/-

فنـــدقكــازابــلنـــكا

مرافقنا الحصرية المتميزةo مطعم Planet العربي مع الموسيقى الحية

o مطعم C.D الهندي مع الموسيقى الحيةo مقهى Amazon – على مدار الساعة

Prince مطعم oPearl Sports بار o

ZuZu ردهة وديسكو oالعرض الخاص على رسوم الغرف

نهاية ا�سبوع أيام ا�سبوع

20 د.ب 18 د.ب غرفة مفردة

25 د.ب 22 د.ب غرفة مزدوجة

40 د.ب 35 د.ب غرفة تنفيذية

للحجز يمكنكم االتصالهاتف: 97317234444+، فاكس: 97317243666+ [email protected] :بريد الكترونيwww.casablancahotelbah.com


Travel

Are you the kind of person that loves to travel on holidays? Well you are not alone! We

love it too! If you too have been bitten by the travel bug then this is a must do list

for all you avid travellers! Check out the 13 Top Destinations for 2013.

Hot To Globe Trot, For 2013

rom the far-flung to the unsung, British Airways has compiled its top

13 destinations to visit in 2013. If 2012 was about East London, then 2013 is about the Far East - as holidaymakers seek the natural unspoilt beauty, charm and good-value that Asia has to offer.

According to travel experts at British Airways, consumers will continue

to be driven by value-for-money next year, with routes such as Dubai, Cape Town and Bangkok already proving popular. In a recent poll on the airline’s Facebook page, over 2,660 users nominated the overseas destinations they most want to visit next year. New York topped the list (22 per cent), followed by Australia (eight per cent), Hong Kong (seven per cent), Rio de Janeiro (five per cent) and Dubai (three per cent).

Compiled by a panel of experts the top 13 for 2013 features new destinations and popular favourites like-

F

Rio de Janeiro, BrazilIf the afterglow of the London 2012 Games has left you longing for more, then its next host Rio is the place to visit, as it gears up to 2016 Games, the 2014 Brazil World Cup, and FIFA Confederations Cup next year. With its famous sun-kissed beaches to enjoy by day and fun parties at night, there’s a lot to love about one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

VietnamVietnam has become one of the most talked about destinations in recent years. Its capital Hanoi is rapidly attracting a crowd of adventurous travellers, looking to soak up the local culture of which there’s plenty. Not mainstream enough to be a tourist trap, many compare it to Thailand twenty years ago – making now the perfect time to visit.

Las Vegas, USAThe classics never go out of fashion, and with more services to Sin City than ever before, tourists hoping to party like Prince Harry need look no further! Top-end hotels, theatrical shows, exquisite restaurants and all-night entertainment continue to draw the crowds.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Las Vegas, USA

Vietnam


Travel

Hot To Globe Trot, Seoul, KoreaGangnam style may have awakened our senses to Korea, but there’s a lot more to Seoul than ‘K-pop music! Mike Rock, the airlines commercial manager Seoul, said: “There’s a lot happening in Korea right now, business is thriving and it’s a tourist destination on the up. The mega metropolis is home to some 10 million people, and is attracting a fresh new audience.”

Tbilisi, GeorgiaGeorgia’s capital has enjoyed a makeover, with a number of new restaurants and hotels opening. With its scenic walks, charming town, vineyards and local wine and cognac to enjoy, Tbilisi is perfect for a cultural weekend away and is already attracting couples and grown up stag nights!

Cape Town, South AfricaCape Town offers everything you could want from a holiday. Good food, great wine, day trips, stunning views, vineyards, beaches, sunsets and much more! Once you visit Cape Town, you’ll want to come again and again. One day you could be watching the Springboks, the next visiting vineyards. Its attractions pack a cultural punch, and its always great value for money, making it one of our most popular destinations.

CroatiaThe jewel of the Adriatic ocean, Dubrovnik continues to appeal to holidaymakers from far and wide, including many high profile celebrities. 2013 will be a big year for Croatia, as the country joins the EU in July.

Croatia

Seoul, Korea

Tbilisi, Georgia

Cape Town, South Africa

Sri LankaThe ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the tropical island of Sri Lanka has seen a recent boost to tourism, becoming the must-visit destination for intrepid travellers. There’s a real buzz about Sri Lanka right now. For a small island it offers a lot, from endless beaches, to elephant treks and several Unesco world heritage sites to visit - it’s hard to think what Sri Lanka doesn’t offer.

Sri Lanka

Croatia


Travel

Alicante

Punta Cana, Dominican RepublicNestled in the Spanish Caribbean Punta Cana is earning itself a reputation as a great value destination for family holidays. People are really waking up to Punta Cana. There’s a real buzz from holidaymakers creating word of mouth on its affordability, fabulous hotels and beaches that dip into the Caribbean Sea.

Derry, Northern IrelandVoted as the City of Culture for 2013, there’s never been a better time to visit Derry. Just over an hour from Belfast, it’s a great destination for a city break, especially to enjoy the many celebrations and cultural events taking place there next year.

DubaiEver-popular Dubai continues to attract travellers with its Middle Eastern charm. It recently launched a ‘Hello Kitty’ spa, and boasts its own indoor ski slope. Dubai has become more affordable over the past few years, yet still offers super high-end hotels and unrivalled luxury.

Dubai

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

AlicanteThe Spanish do fiesta like no one else, and Alicante is a great city for those who prefer to fiesta than siesta! The Old Town offers dozens of bars and restaurants for after dark, and is also host to a growing number of festivals. During the day the local markets are buzzing, and sandy beaches welcoming.

San Diego, USAIn the year that San Diego’s Ron Burgundy returns to the big screen with Anchorman 2, the city reminds us why it’s still classy. Great for golf, excellent for eating, brilliant for bar hopping, California’s best kept secret is a great place to visit any time of year.

San Diego, USA

Derry, Northern Ireland

For more details visit www.ba.com

Tel: +973 1752 2733 or +973 3699 9102 www.olivermaki.com

AnimalCare ClinicAdvanced Veterinary Care

Office Phone: +973 1761 2459After Hours: +973 3635 9358Email: [email protected]

Office Open: 9am-6pmSaturday-ThursdayBy appointment only

ConsultationsLab testsUltrasoundGrooming Medical Boarding

VaccinesHospitalizationSurgeryX-Rays

HOUSE OF UNIFORMS



Tony +973 39 629 889

Grooming is more


Grooming is more

than just a haircut

ProfessIonal


HOUSE OF UNIFORMS



Tony +973 39 629 889

Grooming is more


Grooming is more

than just a haircut

ProfessIonal


Big Deal is a group buying website that posts the best discounted deals on Bahrain’s favourite outlets ranging from products, services, health and lifestyle to travel and events.

For businesses in the Kingdom, it offers an exciting new way to market their products and get free online advertising and for consumers it puts the power of numbers in your hands. Because once a desired product is offered with a “big deal” all you have to do as an interested consumer is get your friends, family and everyone you possibly can, interested in the Big Deal and it’s yours! Not only do you get a product, service, trip or event - you get it at the price you want!

How Big Deal works for businesses?What Big Deal needs is for the merchant to set the minimum target that he would need to generate from the deal. Then Big Deal, posts the offer on their website for free. The company has a database of active consumers, and if the merchant has an existing database, Big Deal can tap into that too.

The email advertisement then goes out to hundreds of customers who are reached through both the Big Deal website and their email addresses - if they’ve registered with Big Deal- as well as on Facebook and Twitter.

In addition, the customers are motivated to promote the deal to their friends. So there’s a huge knock-on effect and the customer has a hand in being part of the activation of the deal, to make sure the deal reaches its minimum number of people. Users tell their friends using Facebook, Twitter, email or phone. Until Big Deal reaches the target the merchant sets, the deal will not go live.

If the target that the merchant has set is achieved - the deal will go live! That means that consumers that have signed on for the deal will get the coupon automatically sent to their inbox which they can print and use like cash.

If the stipulated minimum isn’t reached then the deal doesn’t go live. The only down side to that is that there’s no change to the merchant’s status. The up side is that even if the deal doesn’t go through the merchant will not be charged.

Using Big Deal is secure and easy for customers too!Shopaholics can rejoice! Right on their computers, they know where the best deals

are on offer! That’s because all users have to do is check out the Big Deal website every day to see the latest Big Deals or subscribe to a Bargain Alert and they get the deals emailed to them every morning. What’s more payment is made through the safe, secure, highly encrypted Credimax payment gateway.

When a Big Deal goes live, in other words, when enough people have joined to activate the deal, Big Deal sends them a coupon that they can print and use like cash.

On the one hand it guarantees the best offer for the people of Bahrain to enjoy and on the other hand it guarantees footfall and revenue for the member establishment.

What Big Deal offers is a bridge between the retailer and potential customers.

It’s truly a win-win case. The merchant now has another very lively channel of highly focused, targeted advertising – for which he pays nothing unless it results in sales. Which other medium offers him this? That’s why it’s called a Big Deal.

For more details, log into www.bigdealarabia.com

The newest, most fun way to shop comes to Bahrain with Big Deal.

Incredible Deals And Discounts At

bigdealarabia.com

Option 01 Option 02

Best American Restaurant in the Middle East Since 1997

“Transport available on request, please call to book in advance.”

Tel: 17725550 email: [email protected]

We are located in Juffair...Come see us!

Grand Mosque

Gulf HotelAl Jazira

Supermarket

NSA

?

Best American Restaurant in the Middle East Since 1997.Now serving an assortment of

Continental cuisine.


Tel: 17 725550 email: [email protected]


Grand Mosque

Gulf HotelAl Jazira

Supermarket

NSA

?

Everyone deserves a

Second Chance!

Please call Linda on 3980 2200 or if you’re interested

in adopting a cat or dog (or both) for life please call 3336 3352.

Tony the dog father and his team have dedicated their time to rescue and help home unwanted,

abused & stray animals in Bahrain. You can do your bit too. Purchase a Second Chance calendar for

BD5 and all proceeds go directly to supporting the animals and the rescue centre.

Areej, established in 2004, is the luxury Arabic lifestyle magazine published from Bahrain by Arabian Magazines. It has a strong focus on fashion and luxury but also gives readers interesting and informative sections on art, society, shopping, home decor, and health. In November 2009, Areej circulation was substantially increased as it became the only magazine to be delivered to 3,000 Al Watan newspaper subscribers.www.FashionArabia.net

We know its taking a long time but...

www.gulf-insider.comwill be coming live on 1st February 2012

website Gulf Insider

SIT TIGHTSIT TIGHT


Opinion

Sally tells us how Bahrain and the role of women in the kingdom haschanged over the years.

‘Behind Every Great Man There Is A

Greater Woman’

have lived in Bahrain for more than two decades – half my life. Having spent such an important part of my life here, I call Bahrain home.

When I first arrived in the country, the airport was the size of a luxurious mansion with the same door used for arrivals

and departures. There was only one bridge connecting Manama to Muharraq and one highway that ran all the way from Manama to Isa Town and Hamad Town.

We didn’t have mobile phones or the Internet and relied on landlines and letters to communicate with our friends and families across the globe. The Sitra Bridge was considered a nightmare even back then and the only shopping mall was Yateem Centre.

So, what has changed? Bahrain has come a long way. There are now more people, more cars, roads, areas, bridges, cities, communities and the inevitable more international businesses and competition that have fuelled growth further. The number of residents and expats has increased; some live and work in Bahrain, while others commute to Saudi.

To my surprise, there was a large multi-

cultural community that had lived here for generations. Christmas, Diwali and Eid saw people traipsing all across town, greeting each other and sharing meals. I first experienced the Ramadan canon in Bahrain and Gargaon festivities when children would come hammering on my door, asking for sweets and snacks, a bit like Halloween. I was in awe of how people happily and openly celebrated everything together with their friends and neighbours.

Ultimately, Bahrain is an Islamic country, peoples’ lives are entwined with religion and culture – a culture so strong that community elders still meet in majlises or local coffee shops on a regular basis where family, community and business issues are resolved amicably as possible.

The societal norm – as in all Eastern communities – is for women to be married with a family by the age of 30 years. Women are encouraged to complete their higher education but don’t leave home until they are married and men generally bring their new brides into the family homes.

Parental blessings for the bride and groom are obtained before a marriage is agreed upon. A marriage here is between two families, not just two individuals.

In Bahrain, women work side-by-side men in all sectors, at all levels. They are treated with respect and men in general are very courteous and polite to female colleagues and friends. We women use this politeness to jump queues all the time and ask supermarket staff to help us take the shopping out to the car. As much as we love our independence – we appreciate the pampering a lot more.

Let’s be honest. It’s not really a man’s world – as the saying goes – behind every great man there is a greater woman. We can’t underestimate what women have achieved.

Western expats and the foreign media are often under the misconception that Muslim women have no rights if they wear a hijab – so far from the truth and not in Bahrain. We’re lucky enough to live in a tolerant society that has women representatives in parliament, the Shura Council, banking and the corporate world, leading major private businesses. Many wear the hijab and many don’t, it is a personal decision; a freedom of choice.

For many years, one bone of contention had been a unified family law or Personal Status Law, which had seen much criticism for a lack of consistency in their judgements. Based on women’s demands, the Supreme Council for Women, headed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad, spearheaded a campaign that put pressure on the government, resulting in the passing of the Family Law in 2009. With it, matters of divorce, marriage and child custody were recognised and not left to the discretion of a judge. The law was created to protect women – a great achievement and a visionary message to the world.

Bahrain had the first woman in the Cabinet in 2004 and a second in 2005. Sabah Khalil Almoayyed was chairwoman of Bahrain Bankers’ Society and until February, 2004 acting chief executive of Ahli United Bank. She was the first woman in the Gulf to hold such a senior banking position.

In June, 2006, Bahrain was elected to head the UN General Assembly. It used the honour to appoint Shaikha Haya bint Rashid Al Khalifa as the Assembly’s president, making her the first woman in the Middle East and third in history to take over the post.

Shaikha Haya is a leading lawyer and a women’s rights advocate who has also served as ambassador to France. We have a Christian Ambassador Alice Thomas Samaan in the UK and a Jewish Ambassador Huda Nonoo in the US.

As recently as February, 2012, two remarkable ladies launched their designer label Noon by Noor – owned by Shaikha Noor bint Rashid Al Khalifa and Shaikha Haya bint Mohammed Al Khalifa – in New York, the first GCC fashion label to walk on the runway of the New York Fashion Week. Noon by Noor designs are being worn by the biggest names in Hollywood – an admirable feat.

Women here have been instrumental in propelling the female workforce to a new level. Their accomplishments are commendable and have set a precedent and benchmark for the young female workforce which is Bahrain’s future.

Sally from Saar is a British expat – who has lived in Bahrain for over 20 years and now calls it home

by Sally From Saar

I


Opinion

Rehan Ahmed talks about Doha Conference 2012 and how we can help.

Eng. Rehan Ahmed

Combating Climate Change

t the recently held Doha Conference, 200 nations agreed to extend pollution limits under the Kyoto Protocol to 2020. The two-week conference witnessed financial pledges to support developing nations

and agreements to new carbon-cut targets.Rising industrialisation, growing

population and change in land-use and human-settlement patterns have led to an increased concentration of greenhouse gases (GHG). World CO² emissions are set to rise by 2.6 percent this year, a 50 percent hike over 1990 figures. This can be attributed mainly to emerging nations, led by China and India. The average temperature has risen by 1.4°F over the past century, and is projected to rise another 2 to 11.5°F over the next hundred years. The 20th century has been the warmest in the last 600 years. Greenhouse gases act like a blanket around the earth, trapping energy in the atmosphere and causing it to warm up. This phenomenon is called ‘greenhouse effect’ and negatively impacts our ecosystem.

Climate change is a major concern for Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and

Least Developed Countries (LDC) including Bahrain. Relatively scarce resources make adapting to climate change challenging. The Middle East region, for instance, faces water-scarcity. Climate models have predicted hotter and drier climates in the area and having demand outstrip supply in such a case would be a problem. Moreover climate change would further reduce the water resources which would lead to food insecurity

thus creating social instability and hindering economic growth. This may lead to large scale emigration as well.

International meetings such as the Doha Conference sustain efforts towards environmental preservation and create global awareness about the importance of such

issues, among lay people. Some of the initiatives that we can take are:Using less paper and stationeryUsing items with minimum packagingMinimising water useSegregating, reusing and recycling wasteLimiting use of plastic bagsSwitching off appliances like lights, AC, fan, heater and iron-box after use Not using electrical appliances like washing-machine, vacuum cleaner and dishwasher during peak hours. Switching to energy efficient household technology such as low flow showerhead, LED and fluorescent lights Planting trees Composting organic waste at home and using it as fertiliser for your gardenUsing environmental-friendly cleaning agents and insecticidesPromoting local food and consumer itemsEating less meatUsing energy efficient vehicles

Rehan Ahmed is Head of Waste Disposal Unit, Directorate of Environmental Control, Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, Bahrain. Email: [email protected]

"World CO² emissions are set to rise by 2.6 percent this year, a 50 percent hike over 1990 figures."

A


Society

Society If you don’t spot a picture of yourself or your friends on our Society Pages, you can always check our online newsletter which is updated regularly. Visit www.FashionArabia.net

Maki’s 15 Magical Moments of Fusion CuisineThe 15 Magical Moments of Fusion Cuisine was held at the Maki Restaurant, Moda Mall on 11th December 2012.

Lahis and Loredana

Hakeem, Jassim Abdulrahman Al Zayani and Maki Managing

Partner Amer Zeitoun

Rathesh, Marike and Mailyn

Steve Fernandes and DJ CosstaClaudia de Naim, Daniela Viguie and Maria de Madrid

Tamim, Shub and Melissa Marion and Luiza Juan Carlos Madrid and Pedro Naim Luis and Maria Bousquet

Bahrain City Centre Winter WonderlandCentral Galleria at Bahrain City Centre was transformed into a magical winter village. Visitors – families and children enjoyed an authentic winter experience complete with a life-sized igloo, giant gingerbread house and a host of fuzzy winter characters from 21st November to 31st December.

Lori, Deepti, Ahmed, Duaij Al Noaimi, Wafa with staff and guests


Society

Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

KCS Consulting Services Press ConferenceThe press conference event for the announcement and launch of the new division of the EK Kanoo Group of Companies: KCS Consulting Services was held at the Crowne Plaza on 12th November.

Dr Bijan Majidi, Waleed Kanoo and Jawed Akhtar

“Shine on Diwali by Damas” - Ten Tola Gold Bar Raffle DrawThe “Shine on Diwali by Damas” - Ten Tola Gold Bar Raffle Draw was held at the Damas, Joofrie Street branch, Manama on 20th November.

The winner with Damas Jewellery management and staffSudeer, Praween, Sayeed, Gafoor Mohammed, Yasser Bu Allae, Salam S Mohammed Rajesh and Babu

HI ART Official OpeningThe official opening of HI ART was held at Ramli Mall on 8th November.

Leema and Ayah Fatima and Zahra Hawra and Eman Eman and Nasreen

Sayed Ali Sara Batool Mohammed Amina Haneen Zahra and Sara

Career Expo 2012 Opening Ceremony The opening ceremony of Career Expo 2012 was held at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre on 6th November.

Career Expo 2012 ribbon cutting ceremony Fatima, Faarni, Michael, Alya, Zahra, Sameera and Rabab

AnimalCare ClinicAdvanced Veterinary Care

Office Phone: +973 1761 2459After Hours: +973 3635 9358Email: [email protected]

Office Open: 9am-6pmSaturday-ThursdayBy appointment only

ConsultationsLab testsUltrasoundGrooming Medical Boarding

VaccinesHospitalizationSurgeryX-Rays

HOUSE OF UNIFORMS



Tony +973 39 629 889

Grooming is more


Grooming is more

than just a haircut

ProfessIonal


HOUSE OF UNIFORMS



Tony +973 39 629 889

Grooming is more


Grooming is more

than just a haircut

ProfessIonal


Big Deal is a group buying website that posts the best discounted deals on Bahrain’s favourite outlets ranging from products, services, health and lifestyle to travel and events.

For businesses in the Kingdom, it offers an exciting new way to market their products and get free online advertising and for consumers it puts the power of numbers in your hands. Because once a desired product is offered with a “big deal” all you have to do as an interested consumer is get your friends, family and everyone you possibly can, interested in the Big Deal and it’s yours! Not only do you get a product, service, trip or event - you get it at the price you want!

How Big Deal works for businesses?What Big Deal needs is for the merchant to set the minimum target that he would need to generate from the deal. Then Big Deal, posts the offer on their website for free. The company has a database of active consumers, and if the merchant has an existing database, Big Deal can tap into that too.

The email advertisement then goes out to hundreds of customers who are reached through both the Big Deal website and their email addresses - if they’ve registered with Big Deal- as well as on Facebook and Twitter.

In addition, the customers are motivated to promote the deal to their friends. So there’s a huge knock-on effect and the customer has a hand in being part of the activation of the deal, to make sure the deal reaches its minimum number of people. Users tell their friends using Facebook, Twitter, email or phone. Until Big Deal reaches the target the merchant sets, the deal will not go live.

If the target that the merchant has set is achieved - the deal will go live! That means that consumers that have signed on for the deal will get the coupon automatically sent to their inbox which they can print and use like cash.

If the stipulated minimum isn’t reached then the deal doesn’t go live. The only down side to that is that there’s no change to the merchant’s status. The up side is that even if the deal doesn’t go through the merchant will not be charged.

Using Big Deal is secure and easy for customers too!Shopaholics can rejoice! Right on their computers, they know where the best deals

are on offer! That’s because all users have to do is check out the Big Deal website every day to see the latest Big Deals or subscribe to a Bargain Alert and they get the deals emailed to them every morning. What’s more payment is made through the safe, secure, highly encrypted Credimax payment gateway.

When a Big Deal goes live, in other words, when enough people have joined to activate the deal, Big Deal sends them a coupon that they can print and use like cash.

On the one hand it guarantees the best offer for the people of Bahrain to enjoy and on the other hand it guarantees footfall and revenue for the member establishment.

What Big Deal offers is a bridge between the retailer and potential customers.

It’s truly a win-win case. The merchant now has another very lively channel of highly focused, targeted advertising – for which he pays nothing unless it results in sales. Which other medium offers him this? That’s why it’s called a Big Deal.

For more details, log into www.bigdealarabia.com

The newest, most fun way to shop comes to Bahrain with Big Deal.

Incredible Deals And Discounts At

bigdealarabia.com

Option 01 Option 02





Grand Mosque

Gulf HotelAl Jazira

Supermarket

NSA

?






Grand Mosque

Gulf HotelAl Jazira

Supermarket

NSA

?

Everyone deserves a

Second Chance!

Please call Linda on 3980 2200 or if you’re interested

in adopting a cat or dog (or both) for life please call 3336 3352.

Tony the dog father and his team have dedicated their time to rescue and help home unwanted,

abused & stray animals in Bahrain. You can do your bit too. Purchase a Second Chance calendar for

BD5 and all proceeds go directly to supporting the animals and the rescue centre.

Areej, established in 2004, is the luxury Arabic lifestyle magazine published from Bahrain by Arabian Magazines. It has a strong focus on fashion and luxury but also gives readers interesting and informative sections on art, society, shopping, home decor, and health. In November 2009, Areej circulation was substantially increased as it became the only magazine to be delivered to 3,000 Al Watan newspaper subscribers.www.FashionArabia.net

We know its taking a long time but...

www.gulf-insider.comwill be coming live on 1st February 2012

website Gulf Insider

SIT TIGHTSIT TIGHT

Option 01 Option 02





Grand Mosque

Gulf HotelAl Jazira

Supermarket

NSA

?






Grand Mosque

Gulf HotelAl Jazira

Supermarket

NSA

?


Society


Mercure Grand Seef’s Le Mini ChefMercure Grand Seef hosted a cooking competition for children on 24th November. Participants were in the age group of 7 to 9 years and 9 to 14 years. 33 teams participated in all.

World Beat Fitness Centre & Café’s “A Slice of Life” Art ExhibitionArtist Tonya Vollertsen held a “A Slice of Life” art exhibition from 10th November to 15th December at World Beat Fitness Centre & Café in Janabiya. A “slice of (her) life” was depicted in her new collection.

Aglaya and Salma Rania, Carolina, Yasser, Pierre, Emma and Dylan

Ada, Yana and Christian

Ines and ShannonAxel and AliKarelle and IngridYasser and French School Bahrain principal

Bahrain Businesswomen Society DinnerThe Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society hosted a dinner at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Many VIP guests graced the event.

Bruce, Keith, Iman, Frances, Tonya Vollertsen, Irina, Jacqueline and Rahana Irina, Tonya Vollertsen and Jacqueline

Tonya Vollertsen

Bahrain Businesswomen Society members with BDB management

Salma and Taya

Irina and Elise


Society


Natalie, Samer, Maher and Dina

Roza, Natalia and Tania

Winner Winner

Tania and VeraLina, Irina and Dr Salaman

Anna and KateVera and Asya Gyan, Leva and Galeena

Olga, Tania, Alina and Oxana Julia, Ashraf and Viola

Alise, Haitham, Yuriy, Nadia and TaliaDhaffer Al Omran and Russian Ambassador, HE Victor Smirnov

Russian New Year Celebration Russian New Year celebration was held at the InterContinental Regency Hotel on 20th December.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) Winners Named in First Weekly Raffle Draw The winners were named in Bahrain International Circuit’s first weekly raffle draw which was held at Bahrain City Centre on 23rd December.

Kate and Valentino

Ayna and Yalia

Society


Bizladies Networking EventThe Bizladies Networking event was held at the Bizarre Lounge, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel on 27th November.

Pakistani Women’s Association’s Educational Scholarship Fund (ESF) EventAn educational scholarship fund event was held at the Miami Park Club on 1st December.

The K Hotel Pool PartyThe K Pool Party was held at The K Hotel on 30th November.

Annie, Kate and Bizladies Bahrain President Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy

Louis and Ros

Tarryn and Debbie

Dj Jaison, Chico, Jannet and Mac Sunny, Jannet, Ailyn and Pancha

Christina, Claudia Hard and Lepa

Organising committee Samira, Nighat, Subha, Nadia, Bushra and Shehzadi

Reading RocksBushra, Paresh, Azra and JoeShaheen

Shahira

Aziza

Wael

Puneet



Society


Launch - Mimosa ArabiaThe launch of Mimosa Arabia was held at the Golden Tulip Bahrain on 1st December.

Christophe Marziale and Karin

Noora and Reem Rim and Esay Fouzia and Majida Hanan and Badria

Dana and KhawlaLousia, Mariam, Seham, Wafa, Aysha and Wafiqa

Julia, Nick, Jeremy and Sumaya Irina and Alexander

Mary and John

Riina and Giacomo Lina and Basem Osama and Nasreen Ron and Julia

Mike, Amy, Mar and Mike

Ahmed

Sunita

Khulood

Anca

Sohaila

Noor

The Meat Co Bahrain Re-Opening EventThe Meat Co Bahrain re-opening event was held at the The Meat Company, Manama on 28th November.


Society


Oman Air and Hotel Diva Dinner Oman Air and Hotel Diva jointly hosted a dinner for administrative staff across Bahrain’s Commercial establishments who are frequent users of the airline’s and hotel’s services. Air tickets were gifted as raffle prizes for the guests.

Athar’s “White & Light” First Values ShowAthar’s “White & Light” is the first unique and singular fashion show in Bahrain representing value in innovative and creative Bahraini design, where messages and concepts feautured in fashion, held at Naqsh Gallery, Al A’ali Shopping Complex on 9th November.

Oman Air, Diva Hotel management and staff

The Institution of Engineers Pakistan-Bahrain Chapter Seminar“The Challenge of Municipal Waste Management in Bahrain” seminar was organised by The Institution of Engineers Pakistan-Bahrain on 14th November at Hisham Al Shihabi Auditorium, Bahrain Society of Engineers (BSE) in Manama, Bahrain

Prabhjeet, Tareq, J Adrian, Rehan and Qamar Sajid, Saeed, Tareq and Guzaid

Ahmed, J Adrian, Rehan, Qamar, Tariq and Osama

“White & Light” model participants with Athar organisers


Society


Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) High End Product LaunchThe Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK) high end product launch press conference was held at the BBK Headquarters, 11th floor, Government Avenue in Manama on 2nd December.

Maram, Meena, Axel Hofmann, Ali, Mohammed and Monya Mahmood, Renaldo and Reyadh

Al Wajaha Head, Ghazi Ahmed, Business Group General Manager, Shaikh Rashed Al Khalifa, BBK Chief Executive, A Karim Bucheery and Retail Banking Assistant General Manager, Axel Hofmann

Stella McCartney At Saks Fifth AvenueSaks Fifth Avenue hosted the exclusive preview of Stella McCartney’s Spring/Summer 2013 collection on 20th November.

Kuofang Yang, Mylene and Dana

Abdul Karim Bucheery

Sara, Fatima, Mai, Maram and MunyaMohammed, Khalid and ReyadhAlia, Abeer and Rafa

Kempinski’s Christmas Turkey Cooking ClassesChristmas turkey cooking classes exclusively for mums in Bahrain was held at the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre on 11th December 2012.

Kempinski chefs with Christmas turkey cooking classes participants

Stella McCartney’s Spring/Summer 2013 collectionStella McCartney


Society

Latest society photos at www.FashionArabia.netLatest society photos at www.FashionArabia.net

Francile and Lilie

Sulaiman, Mira and Ahmad

Nardine, Heidi, Salma and Christine

Christmas carol singing

Media karting challenge participants Team Arabian Magazines

On the trackWinning teamTraining workshop

Yandra and Miah

Carlos and Lilie Izabella and Michelle

Prince, Jhejhe, Aj, Sam and Miguel

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Christmas Tree Light UpA Christmas tree light up event was held at the Sheraton Hotel on 12th December.

VIVA Media ChallengeThe VIVA media karting challenge was held at the world-class VIVA Karting Track, Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir on 11th December.

Santa

Mary, Claire and Flower

Society


Shaikha Hind Bint Salman Al Khalifa in cake cutting ceremony Sehan, Jinan, Bon, Khalid, Aiza and Claire

Christina, Rebecca, Liezul, Rosalina, Mary Jane and Julia

Ahmed, Ujjwal, Jamal, Jibu and Taha

Khalid Mattar and HE Hassan Fakhro

John, Mike, Peter and Rajaduray

Khalid Mattar, Dr Adel, HE Hassan Fakhro, Abdulrahman Fakhro and A Karim Bucheeri

Suresh, Mohandas, Brian, Sanjeev and Jibu

Haris and Chris

Shaikha Hind Bint Salman Al Khalifa with Fitness First team

Fitness First Celebrate 1st AnniversaryAl Rashid Group’s Fitness First celebrated its first anniversary at the Oasis Centre in East Riffa on 12th December.

Official Opening of the New Sehla Service CentreThe official opening of the new Sehla Service Centre was held at the Sehla Service Centre on 12th December.

Mattar and Ali Maki

Amina, Rana and

Miral



Society


Society


Nasreen, Layla, Antony, Jo and Janine

Kempinski Christmas tree lighting ceremony

Santa’s Culinary Wonderland 1 Santa’s Culinary Wonderland 2 Santa’s Culinary Wonderland 3 Winter Wonderland Chalet for Charity

Kempinski staff choir

Basel Qabouq and Sofitel Bahrain General Manager BertHazel and Luisa

Sofitel Bahrain General Manager Bert Plas, Foulia and Galina Carol, Monica, Christy and Mirne

IIS Yves, Miquel, Sencha, Eliana and ChloeRana, Karl and Georgette Julia, Ocea and Ilaria

Sofitel Bahrain Christmas Tree Lighting The Christmas tree lighting invitation was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Hotel on 5th December.

Kempinski’s Festive Season Kicks Off The Festive Season successfully kicked off at Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre during the weekend of 30th November, with many holiday-specific activities geared towards children and families.

Amyloa

WindyAmina

Maureen

Wei, Stephen Harris and Sihan


Society


National Day Celebrations for Kempinski StaffThe National Day celebrations for Kempinski staff was held at the staff cafeteria of the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre on 18th December 2012.

Cucina Italiana Christmas Tree LightingThe Cucina Italiana Christmas tree lighting was held at the Cucina Italiana on 5th December.

Launch of Mindshare CSR program Mindshare launched its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program in collaboration of the Royal Charity Organisation at the Bahrain International Circuit on 17th December.

Kempinski staff The Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre Public Relations Manager, Sari Mabire with staffKempinski staff

Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) Board Director and Acting General Manager, Christophe Marziale with Cucina Italiana management and staff

Cynthia Narvaez and

Nelson

Cucina Italiana Chef Fortunato Giordano and staff

Guests

Bernadith and Cynthia

The launch of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program


Society


Dalia, Ali and Nada Othman, Mohammed and Khalid

British Ambassador HMA Iain Lindsay Hails Bilateral RelationsHMA Iain Lindsay British Ambassador to Bahrain, hailed bilateral relations between the two nations at the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) Christmas lunch meeting held at the InterContinental Regency Hotel on 14th December.

Tory Burch Press Day Bahrain City CentreThe Tory Burch press day was held at the Tory Burch Store, Bahrain City Centre on 3rd December.

Louis

Melanie


Society


Alshaya Trading’s Maison Martin Margiela Exclusive LaunchSwedish retailer H&M teamed up with French fashion house Maison Martin Margiela to launch the joint collection at Bahrain City Centre.

Jade and Zee Alina, Yasser and Claudia

Romila, Jojo, Faisal and Yasser

Anne

Bahraini-French Business Club (CAFB) General Assembly Meeting The general assembly meeting of the Bahraini-French Business Club (CAFB), was held at the Golden Tulip Bahrain on 19th November.

Rodolphe, Waleed Kanoo, Jano, Ashraf and Mohammed Khalid and Nawaf ZayaniJawad Al Hawaj and Hisham Baradi

Ahmed, Bekran, Sajal and Charan

Haifa and Romila

The K Hotel’s American ThanksgivingThe K Hotel hosted an all American Thanksgiving at Klouds Restaurant. An elaborate feast complete with a dinner buffet was organised for guests.

Danos, Mohammed, Ailyn, Ghizlan and Ahmed

Damon, Maria and Kenneth Surbita and Armi

Bjarne and PrakashScott, Michael and Djamal

Michael, Ken and Evavold


Society


Society


Samy, Hasan, Ahmed, Hussain, Dinesh, Tareq and Irfan Ali

Nokia Bahrain team

Iman, Reem, Suha, Alina, Lauren, Samer and Lubna

Abdulla bin Sooydan Ibrahim Saleh Reem Mazrooq Raed Jassim Ahli

Areej Editor, Huda Al Mahdi and other media attendees

The Kangoo Club Bahrain participants

The K Hotel staff with Al Hilal Hospital officials

Samah, Madjid and Amen

Sundareshan, Hussain, Irfan, Ahmad, Lijo and Sameer

Nokia Lumia Retailers’ Launch The Nokia Lumia Retailers’ launch was held at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa on 5th December.

Kangoo Club Bahrain - Charity Event The Kangoo Club Bahrain charity event was held at the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain on 8th December.

DSF DinnerThe DSF dinner was held at the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa Hotel on 6th December.

The K Hotel Wellness ClinicThe K Hotel wellness clinic was held at the health club, multi-purpose room of The K Hotel on 8th December 2012.


Society


Elite Grande Christmas PartyA Christmas party was held at the Elite Grande, Juffair on 10th December.

Zain Huawei Mediapad Launch The Zain Huawei Mediapad launch ceremony was held at the Zain Flagship Store, Seef Mall on 10th December.

Elite Grande carol singing

Jude, Soray, Aiz and Noreen Cyril and Diana

Sharon, Sonee and Franzy

Ana and Amna

Santa and kids

Nick Cooksey and Sulthanm

Elite Hospitality Group Marketing and

Communications Manager, Ryan Advincula

Fly Liu, Muneed Shahid, Enterprise & Broadband Products and Services Manager Mohamed Al Alawi and Ghazi Faisal Radhi

Samantha, Rong Zheng

and Mao Jing

Jana and Lily

Zhaodi Xiang, Lily and Das Jaen

Julie, Maoon and Tausif

Society


Chef Alfredo, Sumaya, Salman Al Mahmeed and Julia Siba, Lukas, Isabella and Riccardo Sharon and Patricia

Lukman, Sobin, Shinaj, Zattar, Bashar and Goutham Nanny and Sean

Christmas choir group

Heinz and Lina Kirie, Tina, Reni and Danny

Ibtisam, Rawoul and Emlie Afaf, Yara, Monia and Ahmed Mo’men Shawqi Ahmed and family

Mövenpick Hotel Christmas Light-UpA Christmas light-up was held at the Gallery of the Mövenpick Hotel on 6th December.

Caroline, Tom and Charlette

JuliaSumaya

Zakaria and Noor



Society


Cynthia, Iberna, Melody, Jeni, Mara and Nelson

Suzy and Farah

Dana and Iro Ohoma, Yana, Iro, Badria and Christine

Laila Anny and Danae

Nadia, Yasmine and FouziaFay and Lynn

Keven, Shana and Justin

Kate, Daisy, Lj, Vinod, Mae and Jp Lulwa and Dave

Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC) Christmas Eve Party A Christmas Eve Party was held at Bennigan’s Restaurant and Cucina Italiana, Juffair on 24th December.

Iro Smith’s Birthday Celebration The Iro Smith’s Birthday celebration was held at the Capital Club in East Tower, Bahrain Financial Harbour on 24th December.

Sean and Nancy

Ahmed and Jessica

Lj, Vinod, Cynthia and Nelson

Stephen Harris and

Wei

Dominic and Ashley

Anny

Iro and Mala

Kumar

Gulnar

Farah

Mike, Pam, Nancy and Jesse


Society


Society


Phil, Rebecca, Julie and Rob

Waleed Kanoo with Motorcity management

Montanzer, Karnam and Agnala

Vivek, Sunil, Sathish, John and Agnala Motorcity management

Waleed Kanoo and HE Hassan Fakhro Waleed Kanoo and Abdulla Hatim

Citroën C4 Aircross

Jane and Christina Eul Mo Koo, David, Dina and Kil Michael, Charlotte, Hanwe and Claus

Okatyun, Meeji, Youngog, South Korean Republicís Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Jong Ha Yu, Ki Ityoung and Justin Christina, Maya, Bijan Sasha and Pauline

Deena, Danni and Joy Jason, Sarah and Barry

Royal Golf Club Annual Members’ Gala DinnerAn annual members gala dinner was held at The Royal Golf Club’s Majlis on 6th December.

Motorcity Launch of the New Citroën C4 AircrossThe launch of the new Citroën C4 Aircross was held at the Bahrain City Centre Gate 02 (in front of Starbucks) on 6th December.


Society


Crowne Plaza General Manager Pascal Eggerstedt and family

Lynne and AndyDominic and Chris

Mohammed, Ebrahim Koheeji and Ashraf

Crowne Plaza Hotel Bahrain Christmas Brunch A Christmas Brunch was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on 25th December.

Fanny, Helen and Elly

Lisa and Rob

Goose and Maverick

Jackie and Mary

Elly, Mark and DeeAndrea and SchulzAndrew and Sally

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa’s Christmas LunchThe longest brunch in the island was hosted at Saraya, Wok and Fiamma Restaurant on 25th December. Live entertainment and a visit by Santa Claus were the highlights.

Kristy and Jamie Russell, Poppy and Jake Luna, Karina and Stella

Hawwah, Pippa, Samad and SanahOrlando, Elisa and Kim

Tamara, Rakia, Jassim Zayani, Mirna and Maha

Alex and Sarah

Cardine and Andrew

Luna, Lillia and

Zeid

Sanne, Sue and Michelle


Society


Mathew, Zaid, Fawaz Kanoo, Bashar and Sathish Bashar Akira Odagaki Akira Odagaki and Fawaz Kanoo

Akira and Kambara

Dr Ahmed and Samon Khalid and Emad Tim and David Adel and Reem

Bashar, Zaid and Bisan Fawaz Kanoo and Bashar Nass

Fawaz Kanoo and Bashar Nass

Ghassan, Ghassan, Abdulla, Martino and Samon

EK Kanoo and Isuzu Officials

Motorcity Launch of the New Isuzu D-Max 2013 The launch of the new Isuzu D-Max 2013 was held at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) on 13th December.

National Motor Company (NMC) New Cadillac ATS Launch The launch of the new Cadillac ATS was held at the Royal Gulf Club, Riffa Views on 13th December.

JasmeetRana


Society


Glenn, Lee, Jaqueline and Graig Fatima and Larry Fowzy and Kathy

Labh, Jerald, Rowena, Bachir and Michael Susan, Lydia, Tary, Waleed, Iman, Jame and Isobel

Andrew, Avril and Geoff

Sharon and Larry

Jannet, Mohammed and Angel

Igor, Chris, Gerald, Ruwena, Michael and Geralyn

Sheraton Hotel Christmas Day LunchA Christmas day lunch was held at the Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Hotel on 25th December.

The K Hotel Christmas Eve Dinner A Christmas eve dinner was held at the Klouds Restaurant, The K Hotel on 24th December.

Dr Wisam Younis and Family

George and Alexandra Ignetuis and Becki


Society


Jac Motors staff Noor and Sujoy

JAC Motors LaunchThe JAC Motors launch was held at the Al Muharraq Ballroom, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa on 10th December.

Wahooo! Waterpark Celebrates Bahrain National Day The Wahooo! Waterpark hosted a two-day open day for guests to celebrate Bahrain’s National Day at the Bahrain City Centre from 11th to 12th December.

Faisal Jawad, HE Hassan Fakhro and Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain, HE Li Chen

Natalia, Natasha, Talia and Kamila Goutham and Ram

Majed and Kareem Faisal Jawad Philippe, Veerapandian, Jawad and Venkteshan

Sreedhart, Mahesh and Lawrence

Wahooo! Waterpark management and guests Wahooo! Waterpark management and guests

Victoria

Natasha

97

Society


Heinz, Sumaya and Salman Al Mahmeed Kendra, Zara, Natasha and Jezreel Carly and Zara

Jonathan, Fiona and Francis

John and Kevin

David and Dominique Heba and Sophia

Wendy, Yasmen, Kaven and Cameron

Steve, Tina, Luck and Jack

Mövenpick Hotel Christmas Lunch A Christmas lunch was held at Mövenpick Hotel on 25th December.

Beth and Grace

Sara, Alicia, Bryan,

Vanessa, Sam and Dave

Mona, Talal and Jon

Heinz, Nikita and Lina

January 2013 | Bahrain Confidential |

Meline

Rebecca


Society


Hilton Watson’s Masked BallThe Hilton Watson’s masked ball was held at the Muju, Dragon Hotel, Amwaj Islands on 7th December.

Jamie, Mo, Gab and LaylaDino and Kate

Guests Ariadna and Rogier

Nick Cooksey and friends

Lida, Hilton and Jana

Mo and Anna

Pearl and Tania Alaa and Eman Myrna and Sohail

Guests

Ahmed, Hilton and AnaisDeena, Dino and Laura


Society


Shaji and Santa

Khalid, Noor Sulaiman, Ibrahim, Rashaa and Hanan

Ali Tabet and Holger Tillmann

Maher, Kal and Wael Jazzim Zayani and Noor Sulaiman

Nasar, Laila, Nora and Suhail Rafat, Amina and Emad

Sharmoubi, Bassam, Sharif, Seif and Osama Sameh, Turgay and Rafat

Najwa and Yalie Khalid, Joudy and Hanan

Michael and Ekaferina Carol

Eric, Kaelan and Tamara Arun, Ahmed Hishma, Santa and Mercure Grand Hotel Seef’s General Manager Yasser Bahaa

Mercure Grand Hotel Seef Christmas Tree Lighting A Christmas tree lighting was held at the Mercure Grand Hotel Seef on 18th December.

DHL National Day CelebrationDHL National Day celebration was held at the Gulf Hotel on 20th December.

Ahmed Hishma

and Santa

Tamer

Jehan

Gamal and Dalia

Nawar and

Marda


Society


Jamal Ali Al-Hazeem during ribbon cutting ceremony

Ali Noor, Abbas and MahmoodMohammed, Majeed and Majeed Hoori

Blood donation campaign Blood donation campaign

Christmas carol singing

Emmanuelle, Clemmie, Sophia, Bushell, Kara and DannyMohammed and Santa Seren and Carson

Jack, Luke, Raef and Harry

Jamal Ali Al-Hazeem during the cake cutting ceremony

BMI Bank Inaugurates Bigger Branch The BMI Bank Branch opening was held at Khidamat Street in Tubli on 19th December.

Manama Singers Christmas Carols The Christmas carols by Manama Singers organised by Capital Club Media was held at the Sky Lounge, Bahrain Financial Harbour on 18th December.

Al Rashid Group Blood Donation Campaign The blood donation campaign hosted by Al Raship Group was held at Oasis Centre in Muharraq on 12th December.

Santa and Mohammed

Anne

Majeed and Fakhi Ibrahim


Society


VIP guests

Mohammed Al Qaed and HE Ahmed Kamal Afnana Zayani, Abdulla Rashid and Mohammed Bubshait

VIP guests VIP guests

VIP guests HE Ahmed Kamal

Meet ICT BahrainThe Meet ICT Bahrain was held at the Palm Hall of the Bahrain International & Convention Centre on 10th December.

Think Pink Cheque PresentationThe Think Pink cheque presentation was held at the World Beat Fitness Centre and Café on 15th December.

Elleyah, Roza and Muhana

Raniya, Noor and Bilal Diya and Damel

Adham Salman Hanna Sara

Sara Priyanth Anusha

Little Picasso Painting EventThe Little Picasso painting event was held at the Seef Mall on 7th December.

Rabab Abdul Hafed and Aws

Adaah

Hajar

Aleena

Iamn Fuad, Jane, Faye, Shaikha Marwa Al Khalifa and Jo


Business

BusinessIn Brief

Junaid for Perfumes’ Remarkable Presence at Kuwait Autumn Perfumes ExhibitionJunaid for Perfumes received an overwhelming response at their recent participation at the Autumn Perfume Exhibition that was held in Kuwait. Conducted for over 20 years at the Kuwait International Fair Grounds, this year’s event witnessed a remarkable turnout of over 100,000 visitors. At this year’s event, Junaid for Perfumes presented a collection of their latest products and accessories. Founded in 1910, this Bahrain-based perfumery operates with more than 120 outlets worldwide.

Director of Marketing & Sales, Hamad Fuad

Al Hayrat Announces the 15 Winners of the November Monthly Draw as Excitement Rises about Upcoming Al Hayrat Draw for USD500,000 in Jan!Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK), Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, has recently announced the names of the November monthly prize winners of USD75,000. The November Al Hayrat winners of USD5,000 each are: Aqeel Ali Hasan Alowad, Wedad Jasim Mohamed Al Haji, Naji Yusuf Al Kawari, Walaa Abdulaziz Aljawder, Maryam A Aziz Naser, Adel Haider Rahimi, Iftikhar Ahmed Sardar, Stepjen John Tolle and Fatemeh Mahnaz, Mustafa S Mohameed Alalawi, Rawan A Ameer Jasim, Esam Saeed Hassan Ali, Badriya Ali Hajih Mohammed, Nasreldeen Hamda Khairalla, Shatha Abdulshaheed Salman and Aysha Yaqoob Albanki. The cheques were handed over to the winners by Reinaldo Moarry, Head of Retail Marketing. The handover ceremony was attended by Nada Bubshait, Marketing Communications Manager. The winners expressed their thanks to BBK for providing them with excellent and highly beneficial products and services, namely, Al Hayrat, which allows them to continue saving while getting the chance to win wonderful prizes at the same time.

BBK winners with the BBK management

Diyar Homes Receives “The Best Real Estate Investment 2012” Award from CPI FinancialDiyar Homes, a real estate development subsidiary of KFH-Bahrain, was honoured with “The Best Real Estate Investment 2012” award at the CPI Financial Islamic Business and Finance Awards Gala Dinner Ceremony held in Dubai. On receiving this accolade, Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, the Managing Director and CEO at KFH-Bahrain and Chairman of Diyar Homes commented, “Winning this prestigious award demonstrates that Diyar Homes was able to prove that there is a real demand in the Bahraini real estate market for local housing needs. It confirms the success of the Bahraini real estate workforce, whether it be engineers, architects or contractors.”

Diyar Homes IF&B CPI award

Bahrain City Centre Puts Safety First Bahrain City Centre simulated a real-time fire drill and evacuation to ensure mall management, retailers, contractors and shoppers are prepared in the event of a real health and safety emergency. The simulation started in the morning, and the mall safely evacuated more than 4,000 people in just nine minutes. The fire drill and evacuation is part of Majid Al Futtaim Properties’ Health and Safety Policy, and Bahrain City Centre hosts emergency simulations throughout the year as part of its commitment to safety.

Bahrain City Centre fire drill


Business

KFH Bahrain staff in Turkey

Saar Central Advocates Reef Protection in BahrainSaar Central, an 82 villa luxury residential development in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in line with their ethos to support environmental causes around the island, has pledged its support for Reef Arabia. Reef Arabia, the first authorised supplier of artificial reef units in the GCC, comprises local and internationally based marine biologists who provide real solutions in mitigating marine environmental impacts. Saar Central’s donation will go towards the construction and deployment of artificial reef balls. At a special event organised by Entrepreneurs’ Organisation’s Bahrain chapter, Saar Central and select guests were alerted about the impending dangers to marine life in Bahrain and how Reef Arabia is helping alleviate some of the damage. Nader AlQassab, Managing Director of Saar Central said, “Bahrain’s marine ecosystem is a national treasure. By helping support the formation of artificial reefs around the island, Saar Central is not only protecting the Kingdom’s biodiversity but also the lifestyle of the numerous fishermen who subsist on the marine life.” Reef Arabia is the only company in the Gulf that operates a fulltime, fully equipped manufacturing facility supplying a diverse range of quality concrete artificial reef units to the GCC. Appointed to construct and deploy 2,620 units as part of the Bahrain Artificial Reef Project, Reef Arabia is an integral part of the national marine rehabilitation programme.

KFH-Bahrain Staff Visit TurkeyThe Social Committee at Kuwait Finance House – Bahrain (KFHB) organised a trip to Turkey for 40 employees at the bank. They visited a number of destinations and tourist attractions around the capital Istanbul, and were also proud to celebrate the National Day of the Kingdom of Bahrain during their trip to Turkey. Abdulhakeem Alkhayyat, Managing Director & CEO, commented “I would like to thank the Social Committee for their efforts to ensure the success of this trip. The Social Committee is very active in strengthening relationships between employees, with the aim to give the KFHB employees a strong sense of belonging to the Bank”. The Social Committee at KFHB organises various activities and programmes for its employees throughout the year.

BMI Bank Inaugurates Bigger Branch to Better Serve Tubli’s Growing CommunityBahraini retail and commercial banking institution, BMI Bank launched a new, bigger full-service branch in the growing commercial and residential area of Tubli to cater to the area through its enhanced banking solutions. An official opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of its new branch was presided over by Yousif Hassan Yousif, Director – Banking Supervision Directorate, Central Bank of Bahrain along with the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jamal Al-Hazeem who inaugurated the Tubli branch in the presence of officials from the Bank, guests and members of the media.

GM Support Services BMI Bank, Eyad Sater, CEO BMI Bank, Jamal Al Hazeem and Director Banking Supervision, Yousif Hassan Yousif

Saar Central Reef Arabia

Tamkeen Named “Best Initiative Supporting SMEs in Arab CountriesTamkeen was named “Best Initiative Supporting SMEs in Arab Countries” for the Mohammed bin Rashid Award for Young Business Leaders. The award ceremony was held at the Dubai World Trade Centre under the patronage of HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. HE Shaikh Mohammad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chairman of Tamkeen, received the award from HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on behalf of Tamkeen. This year’s award saw strong competition from organisations and companies from across the Arab World. The evaluation and selection process was carried out by a panel of renowned experts and professionals from different sectors. Tamkeen during the awarding ceremony


Business

Al Rashid Group COO, Santosh Pai with Q Home Décor senior management and staff

World Trade Centre National Day celebration

Bahrain World Trade Centre and MODA Mall Join National Day Anniversary CelebrationsThe Bahrain World Trade Centre (BWTC) and MODA Mall, joined the nation to mark the Kingdom’s 41st National Day anniversary. The year’s celebrations kicked off with an exclusive Bahrain World Trade Centre ‘Tenants’ Appreciation’ reception which was held in the main lobby. BWTC tenants and visitors came together to commemorate and celebrate the country’s rich history, culture, and achievements. During the reception event, tenants and visitors received giveaways decorated with the colours of the Bahraini flag. In line with the National Day theme, the interior and exterior of the iconic towers were lit up with a spectacular red and white lighting which illuminated Manama’s skyline in the colours of the Bahrain National Flag. Shoppers, visitors and tenants were served traditional Bahrain sweets and Arabic coffee.

Q Home Décor Celebrates AnniversaryQ Home Décor celebrated its third year anniversary of operations in the Kingdom. Santosh Pai – COO Al Rashid Group and the group’s senior management were present to mark the occasion. Q Home Décor is a luxury furnishings store located at Bahrain City Centre.

President and CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts AwardedJean Gabriel Pérès, the President and CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, has been chosen as ‘Travel Personality of the Year 2012’ in the influential TTG Asia Travel Awards, recognised as one of the ‘Oscars’ of the travel industry in Asia. Pérès was selected for his outstanding achievement in transforming Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts into an inspiring success story.

President and CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, Jean Gabriel Pérès

Mercedes-Benz M-Class dominates Middle East Motor A-wards 2012Dubai, UAE - Mercedes-Benz Middle East and Levant took home two awards at the third successful edition of the Middle East Motor Awards 2012 (MEMA), held at Expo Centre Sharjah. Nominated for a total six awards, Mercedes-Benz dominated the premium SUV category, receiving MEMAs for Best Premium Large SUV for the ML 350 and Best Performance SUV for the ML 63 AMG, whilst the dynamic GLK reached the top three for Best Premium Mid-size SUV. In addition to the MEMA 2012 titles, the M-Class claimed the AUTO BILD Design Awards 2012 title of the most attractive vehicle in the SUV/Vans/All-wheel drive category, in a poll by leading German car magazine, AUTO BILD.

Mercedes Benz M-class


Pets

If only animals could talk, you’d be hearing their sad, pitiful stories. But since they can’t, we are giving these adorable creatures a voice. One way or another, they have been hurt and abused in ways you would not imagine a human doing to another creature, and yet the fact remains that these animals end up abandoned and left for dead all over the Kingdom. If you’re thinking of buying a pet, please don’t - instead, adopt one today.Home!Looking For A

Interested in Adopting?Visit the BSPCA in Animal Welfare Centre in Askar, see www.bspca.org for directions. Open for adoption viewing Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Tel. +973 1759 1231.

Do you have animal concerns? Need a vet? Call Dr Nonie Coutts Tel. +973 1724 5515.

Tony The Dogfather

BSPCA Animals

Interested in Adopting?Call Tony ‘The Dogfather’ Waters on Tel. +973 3962 9889 or visit www.dogfatherbahrain.com

Lucas

Snapple

Grady

Pringles

Shaggy

Skylar

Fido

Primrose

Cookie

Dusty

CocoCustard

Dunken

Barny Rubble

Bear

Roxy

Brutus

Sploge

Bolux

Rag

Monkey

Tag

Boblail


Cars

he latest model of Kia’s widely successful Sorento is set to charm customers with its fresh looks and improvements. The SUV features new headlamps with LED positioning lights, a new tailgate with LED

rear combination lamps, new front and rear bumpers with vertical-axis fog lights and a larger area of body-color surface, and an expanded choice of wheels to include larger diameter alloys. It is fitted with the standard Kia 3.5-liter V6 engine which has 277 HP.

Inside the seven-seater cabin, there are more soft-touch surfaces plus a new LCD instrument cluster, new centre stack with 8-inch display screen, and a new console featuring a straight-gate selector with a leather-booted lever on automatic transmission models – reinforcing the vehicle’s more luxurious premium character. Offered in black or beige cloth or leather, the interior can be bathed in natural light through a larger optional panoramic sunroof.

The upgraded Sorento’s stiffer body-shell structure and new vibration-damping subframe mountings are an excellent foundation for minimising noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The engine lined withall-new, three-layer, noise-lowering materials and a new sound insulator fitted to the transmission tunnel further minimises NVH.

The upgraded Sorento comes with dual front

airbags which are standard for all models and front side airbags and side curtain airbags, offering head protection to front and second row occupants. Sorento EX buyers can specify front and rear parking sensors; a Kia Reversing Safety Camera mounted on the tailgate with a 130 degree wide-angle lens and high intensity discharge Xenon headlamps.

Sorento comes with a realistic five years unlimited mileage warranty with a low running cost to compliment the drive

To book a test drive call, Tel. +973 1740 8800 or visit the showroom in Khamis. For more information visit www.binhindi.com

TAA Bin Hindi announces the arrival of Kia’s upgraded SUV in Bahrain.

The All-New

“The upgraded Sorento’s stiffer body-shell structure and new vibration-damping subframe mountings are an excellent foundation for minimising noise, vibration and harshness.”

Kia Sorento 2013


Cars

ercedes-Benz recently launched its brand new GL SUV. Demonstrating leadership qualities across sports-car disciplines, the newbie occupies top postion among

luxury SUVs. A spacious interiors enhances comfort and the AMG Exterior Package promises to lend your ride a sporty touch! The head and tail lamps feature LED technology and the GL 500 4MATIC Blue Efficieny with a charged, direct-injecting Blue Direct petrol engine offers impressive performance coupled with high efficiency. On average the new model range undercuts the preceding model series by 19 percent when it comes to consumption figures.

Available as standard from 2013, the 360° camera equipment feature comprises four cameras in the front and rear area as well as in the exterior mirror housings providing a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle and of the area surrounding it from the image information, and shows other views in the generously sized Comand display.

Tightly put together, the Assistance Systems and the On & Off Road package featuring multiple driving programmes ensure safety for both the driver and other passengers. The vehicle also has a Passive safety system – two-stage adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag for the driver, sidebags for the driver and front passenger (combined thorax/pelvis bags) and windowbags

above all three seat rows. Other standard elements include pyrotechnic inertia-reel tensioning and constant belt force limiters plus electrically reversible inertia-reel belt tensioners at the front, inertia-reel tensioners at the outer seats and single-stage belt force limiters at the outer seats on the centre bench seat as well as at the rear single seats. In addition to this there are 3-point seat belts on board for all seven seats. On request, safety can be optimised by systems such as the Distronic Plus proximity control, the brake assist system Bas Plus and the Pre-Safe.

The optionally available Active Curve System roll stabilisation works at the front and rear axle with active torsion-bar stabilisers and compensates for the roll angle

The All-New 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL

First Class in All Conditions, the New GL Spells Innovation and Style.during cornering which significantly increases agility and driving pleasure.

The Active Parking Assist with an automatic function for entering and exiting parking spaces — the bi xenon headlamps with the Intelligent Light System (ILS) featuring the new off-road light, the Adaptive Highbeam Assist and the Night View Assist Plus – ensure that the motorist has a sufficient view of the road. At par with the S-class and having NVH characteristics (Noise, Vibration, Harshness), this creation is a guranteed smooth-ride all the way!

For more information contact +973 17 17785454 Visit: www.alhaddad-mercedesbenz.com

M

Top Mercedes Bahrain-officials at the launch


CAR NEWS

HR Policy Committee Head, A Aziz Bin Hindi (6th from left) presents the new HR Policy to AA Bin Hindi Group President & CEO, Ahmed bin Hindi (5th from left) with other committee-members

From the latest to the greatest, find out

all about what’s new in the automotive

industry right here on this page.

Enhanced HR Policy for Bin HindiA professional committee of HR, legal, quality control and finance experts put together an improved HR policy for automobile dealer AA Bin Hindi. The new policy highlights the brand’s efforts towards implementing quality management practices. Employees will now enjoy transparency and easy access to work and policy related information ensuring smooth flow of communication across channels and departments. In a market where businesses play talent-magnet through tactics like internal poaching, employee retention becomes a daunting task. In such a situation comprehensive and employee friendly HR policies become indispensable to reduce complexity and operational issues. With many more staff-welfare programs in the pipeline, Bin Hindi Group intends to align employee and company goals to suit the present volatile market.

Hyundai Genesis’s New Model in the Middle East Hyundai’s award-winning luxury sedan, the Genesis is now available in the Middle East with a new, top-of-the-range 3.8-liter engine as well as a state-of-the-art navigation system. The new model offers customers higher levels of performance and sportiness while retaining the same levels of luxury for which the Genesis is renowned. The new 3.8-liter unit features direct injection (GDI) technology and produces 338hp and maximum torque of 40.3kg.m at 5,100rpm. With a maximum speed of 240kph, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 6.2 seconds. The 3.8GDI Lambda engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that offers SHIFTRONIC manual shift capability. This Hyundai-developed transmission adds two additional ratios enhancing acceleration, shifting smoothness and transmission efficiency. The car also features DRIVER INFORMATION SYSTEM which includes navigation information and enhanced multi-media options. The new display provides a more intuitive user interface, with an integrated joystick-type function. It will also come with a rear view camera, which projects images on the 8 inch screen, giving the driver optimal assistance when reversing into any parking space. The Genesis has enjoyed many international accolades since 2009

Drive the latest Genesis with newly added features.

The new model offers customers higher levels of performance and sportiness while retaining the same levels of luxury for which the Genesis is renowned.

Cars


Cars

Motorcity Sponsored Volvo Team at Golf TournamentThe Volvo team, which consists of three amateur players as well as the pro Golfer Hamed Mubarak, participated at the prestigious Royal Golf Club Pro-AM tournament 2012.

Ebrahim K Kanoo (six from the left) with Toyota Motor Corporation Vice Chairman, Takeshi Uchiyamada (fifth from the left) with Toyota management and guests

Toyota Vice Chairman Visits Ebrahim K KanooEbrahim K Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota & Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, was visited by the Vice Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation Takeshi Uchiyamada. He came to Bahrain to attend the Six Hour of Bahrain and support the Toyota Racing Team.

Toyota 86 … Thrill Drive RedefinedEbrahim K Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota & Lexus in Bahrain, has launched the Toyota 86, a rear wheel drive vehicle powered with a 2.0 Lt. Boxer engine with Direct Fuel Injection D-4S technology that generates 200 HP, and a new 6-speed automatic or manual transmission. Despite its striking sporty design, the Toyota 86 comes with the latest safety inventions. Toyota 86

We Love Winner!Congratulations! Khulood Alsadah, MINI competition winner, in celebration of MINI’s 53rd Birthday. The prizes include a really cool branded duffle bag, a cooler and a fabulous MINI beach towel.

President of Toyota Material Handling International (TMHI), Mr Onishi and

Ebrahim K Kanoo, Tech & Sales Manager at Toyota Material Handling Division, Hisham G

Andraos

Bahrain Toyota Material Handling Division Achieves Global RecognitionToyota Material Handling Division at Ebrahim K Kanoo received the Sales & Customer Support Excellent Performance 2011 Award, during the annual Toyota Material Handling International Distributor Conference which was held in Yokohama, Japan. Hisham G Andraos, Tech & Sales Manager at Toyota Material Handling Division at Ebrahim K Kanoo received the award from Mr Onishi, President of Toyota Material Handling International (TMHI). Toyota Material Handling Division provides industrial and commercial companies with high quality equipment such as forklifts and lifting trucks, also the Ground Support Equipment for Airports, supported by a wide network around the Kingdom offering professional after sales services.

Khulood Alsadah


Motoring

Kudos To Harley-Davidson Academy Of Motorcycling

Riders who trained at the academy share their testimonials with Bahrain Confidential.

Professionals from Harley-Davidson Academy trained me to ride a heavy motorbike so well that by the end of it I knew I was ready to get my own machine. Today I own my own Harley and proudly ride it! Ines Hoffmeister, 46 years, Germany

Harley-Davidson Academy trainers are extremely friendly and professional. They maintain high standards of training which is expected given the brands repute. I would recommend this academy to anyone wanting to learn a bike.Rodney Davies, 51 years, Britain

My experience at Harley-Davidson Academy of

Motorcycling was amazing. I learned the basics about

motorcycles and safety. The instructors were very

patient and made the learning process simple and fun. Thanks to them I am a

confident rider today.Laila, Bahrain

The Harley-Davidson Academy organised a private course for me and my friends. We all had a fantastic

time and would be keen on signing up for the advanced course too. We were trained by professional instructors and enjoyed excellent facilities at

the academy. We also learned different riding techniques which improved our

practical riding skills. Saleh Hijazi

Harley-Davidson Academy gives a lot of importance to safety while riding and the instructors are very patient especially with beginners such as me. I would recommend training at the academy first even if you want to sign up for any other formal lessons later. I took up advanced classes to further my knowledge on different aspects of riding. The academy is sheer value for money and as an added bonus you get to try you hands at a number of Harley bikes.Amaan Ali

It has been a great experience indeed learning to be able to ride a

Harley! Their theory lessons are very informative and practical. We were also had a practice session which

was monitored by professionals for safety. Training with Harley-

Davidson Academy is a real confidence booster. The instructors at the academy are so passionate about their work and there is

an air of excitement in the training-area which doesn’t let you give up.

Neesha Malik

To book your training please email: [email protected]

*Prices available upon request.


Cars

he BMW 730Li is a luxury car with great power. Although I drove it on regular roads in Bahrain, I’m genuinely impressed by how the smallest engine in the range which has 258bhp propels the car. If this

relatively smaller engine in the series is good it is a wonder as to why one would need the same model with an engine any larger!

Customised to suit the Middle East, the car’s iDrive system has a language-option interface and navigation so the driver can select English or Arabic. The car has a spacious interior and sound proof compartment. Though I was driving on a road with noisy construction work I couldn’t hear

a thing inside the car with the windows rolled up and enjoyed beautiful classic music as

I drove. The 730Li has the Bang & Olufsen surround sound system which is excellent.

The rear-seats have their own

entertainment package. There are two separate 9.2” TV monitors and digital headphone connections offering great sound (yes, I tested it!). There’s also a separate iDrive controller so passengers at the back can flip through their favourite entertainment programmes while on the go.

The 730Li features a Night Vision and Dynamic Light Spot – standard to the 7 series. This is very helpful while driving at night in case there is a pedestrian in the car’s path then infrared sensors detect this and direct light spots on them which helps prevent accidents.

My verdict on the new 730Li, it is an elegant car with remarkable power!

For a test drive call, Tel. +973 1775 0750 or visit: www.euromotors.com.bh

Nick Cooksey tests one of the latest models in the BMW 7 series.The BMW 730Li

T “I’m genuinely impressed by how the smallest engine in the range which has 258bhp propels the car.”

Nick Cooksey and the latest model of BMW 7 series

www.foodexpbh.com

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

16-18 April 2013

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

Organised by Supported by Sponsored by

For further details please contact Amal Abdulla, Senior Sales O�cer on Tel: +973 1755 8898. Mobile: +973 3387 9969, or email: [email protected] A. AlAmer, Senior Sales O�cer, Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority (BECA),

Email: [email protected], Direct line: +973 1755 8854. Direct Fax: +973 1755 5513.

Media Partners

Food and Beverage Technology Food Processing Technology

Ready to Eat Products

Hotels and Restaurants

Health and Organic Foods

Frozen Foods

Fine Dining

Beverages and Soft Drinks


Gastro

Mövenpick HotelKitchen Party!For all special events like birthday parties or even surprising your boss, Visit Mövenpick where eating is an unforgettable experience involving a certain ritual and everyone has to get involved. Life’s all about decisions? There’s a place for theatre at the Flamingo Bar table, for instead of watching the Chef do his usual cooking, a group of eight to twelve guests will be provided with hats and aprons and will be juggling with their Italian or Arabic menus, while enjoying cooking their Penne Al Dente or their mixed grills to perfection. It’s spontaneous; it’s fun. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a private party or a birthday celebration.Priced BD19++ without drinks, or BD22++ inclusive of welcoming and soft drinks.

Get Belgian mussels plus Leon des Bruxelles at MövenpickAn authentic dining experience awaits at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain from 22nd of February till 1st of March 2013. Sole Meunière, mussels with curry or with Tartar sauce, French fries and turkey steak

dished out with a casual style and grace. Everything about these dishes is absolutely perfect. If you’ve never had one of these authentic Belgian delicacies, then you’re in for a treat!

CalendarGastro

Launch of Baharat on 9th January, 2013Baharat will feature an eclectic array of Middle Eastern and Oriental dishes, including mouthwatering selections of appetisers, grills serving Shish Taouk, lamb chops and Dajaj Mosahab, and a delectable array of desserts such as Loukamat, Baklava, Katayef Assafer, and Um Ali. Live cooking stations, saj and tandoor ovens, and private dining areas, complete with live entertainment including a belly dancer and a large terrace to enjoy a wide selection of shisha flavors.For additional information or bookings: Tel. +973 1717 1000.

Saveur - Friday Family Brunch Every FridayTime: 12.30pm to 4pm Price: BD19++, inclusive of soft beverages; children zero to six years eat free, seven to twelve years dine at half price

T-Spoon - Traditional Afternoon TeaA wide selection of European sandwiches, pates, scones and sweet treats created in house together with a drink of your choice from specialties include lemon tartlets, Raspberry mille feuille a la minute, Bakewell tart, Chocolate eclaires, plus stylish and decadent Macaroons.Price: BD13.5++ per person

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel

Elite Resort and SpaTNG: Thursday Night Grills BD12 per personFriday Brunch: BD10 Adults and BD5 for kidsChill Out Saturday: BBQ at the poolside at BD10

Elite Crystal HotelBora Bora: Friday Pool Party

Baharat

Bushido

Enjoy a range of new flavours apart from your favourites. Delicious Japanese cuisine! BD16 and BD19 respectively.

Bento box. This trendy lunch offers a nice selection of Japanese food, including miso soup, salads and tea. Everything is set up in an individual box, in an attractive way. From BD9++

The latest and

tastiest places to go!

The Bahrain Confidential

gastro guide reveals the best

places to eat in Bahrain.

Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.

Gastro

Magical Moments Of Fusion Cuisine51

lways trying to invent new flavours, award winning Maki restaurant launched its exotic new dinner - 15 Magical Moments - which features fifteen divine staple

favourites from the menu with wine pairings. Those with a penchant for fusion-food will agree that this creation is one of a kind. Every bite is a complete and satisfying gastronomical escapade and the highest quality wines served at Maki complement the food leaving the diner wanting more.

Maki’s reputation for creating unique flavours holds true for each dish that is served. Experienced chefs have conjured

a highly refined culinary extravaganza using the freshest ingredients which leaves a wonderful after-taste making it all the more pleasurable. Fresh fish like salmon, tuna and a variety of white fish are complimented by seaweed, horse radish, avocado, caviar and creamy sauces ensuring every morsel is flavour-packed. Crab sticks, crab meat and shrimp also feature in the dishes. Single-grape white wine and red wine further pamper the taste-buds.

Through this creation, Maki endeavours to allow its diners the pleasure of variety. Each of the fifteen items has a different story to tell. One of the items has been named after a reputed local television presenter thus highlighting the restaurants policy to encourage creativity in cooking!

The dim-lit ambiance coupled with

A“One of the items has been named after a reputed local television presenter thus highlighting the restaurants policy to encourage creativity in cooking!”

tasteful music and comfortable seating only add to the ‘magical’ dining experience. The restaurant also exhibits highest-quality service standards. If you are a thorough gourmand, you simply don’t want to miss this one!

Dinner is priced at BD15 per person.For enquiries and reservation call +973 1752 2733 or +973 36999102 or email: [email protected] www.olivermaki.com

Maki pampers the fusion-food lover

with its innovative and tantalising flavours.

Signature Maki Assortmen

Bader Maki

Fusion Shot

Marike, Steve, Mailyn and Maki Managing Partner Amer Zeitoun



Gastro

Anniversary FeastCucina Italiana is serving the finest Italian delicacies as part of its first anniversary menu*. The three-course feast includes Insalata de Polpo or Stracciatella (soup), Linguine con Polllo e Pomodoro or Cernia Alla Pazza (maincourse) and the legendary Italian dessert, Tiramisu! A suprise complimentary dessert will also be served. These delicious dishes can be washed down with a well-concocted welcome drink or Cucina Italiana’s signature cocktail which will be served at no extra charge. In addtion to exciting giveaways, guests can participate in an anniversary special lucky draw. The winner bags a complimentary lunch or dinner with a bottle of wine for two.

Anyone Can Cook!Cooking just got better..the restaurant is organising special cookery classes with ace Chef Fortunato. Aspirant chefs will learn how to cook interesting Italian appetizers and maincourses. Participation certificates and a best-selling cook-book will be given to each participant.

Bon Appetite! Dine at Cucina ItalianaSumptuous BreakfastWhat: Comforting and lingering on the pallete, a carefully selected menu of cheeses, hams and other Italian breakfast items; great way to start your day!When: Throughout the week, 6am onwards

Italian BrunchWhat: Cucina special selection of Italian delicacies When: Friday, 10:30 am to 3 pmBD16 per person with a welcome drink and best selection of juices & soft drinks.BD25 per person with a welcome drink, house beverages & a bottle of Italian wine for two.

Friday Nite BuffetWhat: Gourmet dishes including cold cuts, cheeses, maincourse and desserts at BD10 per person

Look out for Cucina Italiana’s soon to come Wine Dinner and enjoy a relaxing wine tasting evening with one of the best wine masters flown straight from Italy!

Cookery Class Details:Where: Cucina ItalianaFee: BD10 per month. Register for the entire year at BD100 ONLY!When: Once a month at 4pm

For reservations call +973 1700 1317 or book online at www.cucinaitaliana.com.bh. Enjoy free home delivery anywhere; just dial +973 1700 1317.

Dine at Cucina Italiana and become a Loyalty Card holder - enjoy a 10 per cent discount on all your meals. Card valid for three months.

Festive promotions and gourmet

cookery classes; celebrate the Italian way with Cucina Italiana.

Buon Anniversario!

ahrain’s one-stop destination for an authentic Italian culinary extravaganza - Cucina Italiana - is set to mark its first anniversary in the Kingdom. Cherished by gourmands across

nationalities, in Bahrain this restaurant attracts thousands of diners throughout the week and especially over weekends.

Ask Mr Christophe Marziale, Board Director and Acting General Manager, Bahrain Family Leisure Company as to how the past year in the kingdom has been and he replies with an ecstatic ‘wonderful’. Seems there is no dearth of food-lovers in Bahrain who appreciate good flavour! The defining factor in Cucina Italiana’s success has to be its recipes and cooking methods which are followed to the T so as to offer diners the perfect Italian gastronomical adventure.

BBahrain Family Leisure Company Board Director and Acting General Manager, Christophe Marziale

Chef Fortunato Giordano

Marlon Brando in ‘The Godfather’Artist: Kinan Douba

“There is no dearth of food-lovers in Bahrain who appreciate good flavour!”


Gastro

Indulge In Lebanese Culinary Delights

eila Restaurant, part of Global Food Concepts WLL, Bahrain which is a subsidiary of Al Kharafi Global in Kuwait is located at Al A’ali Mall in Seef District. They have been successfully serving food-lovers in

Bahrain for over a year now and also have a relatively new branch opened at Mirdif, UAE in addition to their outlet in Lebanon.

The restaurant has plush interiors and offers a warm and comfortable

atmosphere for guests to dine. The elements used in the restaurant’s interior – sober colours, traditional décor and well-spaced furniture complement the variety of Lebanese delicacies that the restaurant serves. An ideal dining destination for families, the

restaurant has been doing good business since it has come to the kingdom.

Leila Restaurant offers traditional Lebanese cuisine though catered to suit their diners’ taste. They share one of their most popular recipes with Bahrain Confidential.L

Leila Halawet El JebenThe famous sweet cheese dough, with Ashta* (Lebanese cream) garnished with pistachios.

Ingredients:400gms Halawet Eljeben Dough*500 gram Ekawi Cheese*30 ml Sugar Syrup ½ tsp Mistika Powder* 30 gram Semolina Ashta for stuffing

Method: 1. In hot pan cook the cheese until it melts and water evaporates.2. Add sugar syrup and Mistika while stirring.3. Add the semolina slowly until the mixture combines and smoothens.

Leila Halawet El Jeben

Leila Restaurant’s impressive interiors

Try out these mouth-watering recipes

from Leila Restaurant!

For bookings or home delivery call, Tel. +973 1756 6556 or visit: www.leilarestaurant.com


The Night Never Looked So Bright

Dance as though

no one is looking ...

Please be aware that timings and offers are likely to change. It is advised to call up in advance.

Bizarre Lounge - Hot in the City theme nights every Thursday Featuring luxury, fashion and beauty brands, spirited cocktails and a chance to win fabulous prizes each week, with a grand prize on 31st January for the most fashionable woman of the month.For Ladies every Thursday: Buy one beverage, get one free (from special menu)Time: 9pm till 2am. For additional information or bookings: Tel. +973 1717 1000.

Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel

Elite Resort and Spa

Elite Crystal Hotel

Shift 7: Ladies night every Friday to Wednesday and Karaoke night every SaturdayWaikiki: Every night at Sea side bar and sheesha.

Gnawa nights every Saturday at Awtar: Live Moroccan entertainment

Klub 360• Finesse Nights every Sunday and Wednesday• Bublicious night every Monday• Party without a Wallet (KLUB 360 VIP membership programme) - Cost: BD360. The membership card comes credited with BD250 to use within the club and its rechargeable.

Bora Bora • Wednesday Sombrero night - The delicious Mexican buffet is guaranteed to delight with the freshest possibe ingredients and at only BD9.9 per person.

Nightlife

Bizarre Lounge


Elite Grande Hotel

Elite Seef Residence & Hotel

ZodiacMonday: Ladies NightAll Ladies, select two of your favorite regular cocktails and enjoy it at ZodiacLounge for a posting over their facebook wall.

Tuesday: Retro NightGo back to Disco with a 1970s & 1980s Disco party. Tie-dye paper goods, psychedelic fedora hats, disco ball earrings! Disco Music will set the mood. Make sure to wear your favorite Retro Disco outfits. Also enjoy a ten per cent discount over classical cocktails: Manhattan, Blue Lagoon, Margarita, Tom Collins and Mojito.

Wednesday: Latino NightLatin music nights and enjoy a punch of Sangria only for BD5.

H20Thursday: Hot Grill NightEnjoy a huge selection of international grilled delicacies, a rich salad bar and mouth watering desserts. Accompanied by a Sheesha of your choice only for BD10.

Friday: Seafood NightEvery Friday night at H2O to get a wild rang of fresh seafood cooked your way with an international salad corner and dessert. Accompanied by a Sheesha of your choice only for BD10.

Daily: Happy HourVisit between 4pm to 8pm - both Zodiac Lounge and H2O. For a three full happy hour to enjoy and relax with a wild variety of cocktails.

14th February 2013Valentine: Lady in RedZodiac Lounge presents all Ladies in red and get a red rose for an unforgettable night where cupid lovewill certify your love on that day while listening to the love beats with the best Valentine Songs and enjoying a Raspberry Champagne, Heart of Tomato, Prawns Lover, Passion Fruit Granitee, Valentine Salmon and Engagement Chocolate Mousse. All this for BD30 per couple.

Everyday - Happy hours from 11am till 5pm and beer promotion from 11am till 2am

Any Day - Enjoy Karoake at the Il Giardino with a minimum booking of ten people with unlimited drinks, BD20 net.

Bossa Nova Acoustic - Every Wed, Thursday and Friday.

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

Bushido

Silk’s Restaurant - Fondues Swiss bliss.Prepare for a Swiss gourmet feast from 6th January till 21st February on Tuesday, Friday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday for a night of splendour and Fondue. Sample the classic Swiss Cheese Fondue. Fondue “Bourguignonne,” the tenderest of tender beef filet cubes plunged into hot oil and served with French fries and a range of tasty sauces. Don’t miss the Fondue “Chinoise,” beef, veal, chicken and fish, simmering in a broth-filled hot pot. Call the Fondue line, Tel. +973 1746 0000. Price is at BD12.5++ per person.

Pink FridaysDedicated to women, the last Friday of each month remains fun, glamour and “pink”. Ladies get free entrance and two complimentary drinks, promotions on a selection of bites including a chance to win Emporio Armani high-end fashion accessories.

AfterworkBuy one, get one free. Wine, sparkling wine, cocktails, beers.Every weekdays - From 5pm to 8pm

Weekends@BushidoBefore midnight, get special promotions on a selection of Vodka and Whiskey bottles.Bottle from BD45++ to BD85++

Geisha fever. Free drinks for ladies through a selection of wine, cocktails, mocktails. Five per cent will be applied on a selection of bites also.Free table booking before 6pm on the day.

Ladies Night & Jackpot at Casablanca HotelEvery Wednesday Venue: Club ZuzuTime: 9pm to 2amLadies in high heels can enjoy 2 free drinks. A raffle draw is also held and winners get a pitcher of Bull Frog and a one night stay at the hotel.

Every FridayVenue: Club ZuzuTime: 9pm to 2amBuy a ticket for BD1 and stand a chance to win a jackpot of USD1,000. Ticket valid for one month.

For reservation, Tel. +973 1723 4444.

Casablanca Hotel

Enjoy new packages with friends which includes one to two bottles, mixers, canapés and fresh fruits and a the table booking. For a special occasion, the Birthday package will include a cake and Champagne.

If you want to see your event listed send your material by the 15th of every month by email:

[email protected]

Bushido

Nightlife


Listings

122

WavesCrowne Plaza Hotel, Tel. 1753 1122A popular lunchtime retreat, picking your fish and eating it is the order of the day, and the catch is as varied as it is complete. And the nutty, honey-combed chocolate fudge delight will finish you off nicely.

Le JardinRamada Bahrain, Tel. 1774 2000Fully renovated with a new look - ‘Bigger, Better, Brighter’.

The GalleryMövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000Picturesque pool and lagoon views.

La MedThe Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Tel. 1758 0000Mediterranean and international cuisine.

Le Bistro InterContinental Regency, Tel. 1722 7777Main restaurant situated above the lobby with International buffet lunch daily.

Olivos BrasserieThe Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1752 2124This Mediterranean brasserie offers superb food in a relaxed atmosphere. In buffet style you can enjoy a super breakfast, sumptuous lunch and delicious dinner.

Al Waha Restaurant Gulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6425)Open 24 hours

Al Wasmeyah Restaurant Golden Tulip Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 5000)Open 24 hours

Block 338Adliya (1771 0338)Open every evening from noon-2am

Café SayahDelmon International Hotel (1722 4000)Open 24 hours

Downtown LoungeInterContinental Hotel (1720 8308)Open daily from 5pm to 2am

La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary ArtsRas Ruman (1771 3000)Open daily 9am-10.30pm. Closed Monday.Average BD20

Muju Restaurant and LoungeDragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 9800)Open daily, 24 hours

Nando’sJuffair (1782 5100)Open 11am-2am

RendezvousSeef Mall, Seef (1758 7708)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm

RimalAl Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000)Open daily 6.30am-11pmAverage BD40

Selections InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308)Open daily from 6.30 am to 11.30 pm

TeatroDana Mall (1755 8555)Sat-Wed 1pm-4.30pm, 6.30pm-midnight; Thu-Fri 1pm-11.30pm Average BD19

Upstairs DownstairsAdliya (1771 3093)Open daily 7am-11am, noon-3am, 7pm-midnightAverage BD20

To be included, email: [email protected] or call +973 1782 2368.

Restaurant ListingsChinese

Hong KongAdliya, Tel. 1772 8700The myriad dishes are served in abundance and are all delicately and lovingly flavoured. The soft steamed dumplings are magnificent, the sizzling seafood is cooked to perfection, and the beef with black mushrooms and bamboo shoots deserves plaudits beyond Bahrain.

SoieSheraton, Tel. 1753 3533Chinese and Asian specialities in sophisticated and elegant Oriental surroundings.

Beijing ChineseAdliya, Block 338 (1771 7969)Open daily, 11.30-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD15

First ChineseAdliya (1771 3603)Open noon-3.30pm, 6pm-midnight.

FoliUm Al Hassam (1772 2199)Open noon-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm.

Asian CuisineAdliya (1771 7080)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD50

Magic WokAmerican Alley, Juffair (1769 4105)Open daily 8am-11pm

Memories Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 8646)Open Sat-Wed 11am-11pm; Thu-Fri 11am-midnight. Average BD12

Indian Aachi’s Chettinand KitchenNear the Indian Club, Gudaibiya (1723 3110)Open daily 10.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm.

AkbarRamada Palace Hotel (1729 6660)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-12.30am.Average BD16

Asha’sBahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 7008)Open daily 11am-noon

Clay OvenAdliya (1771 7008)Open daily 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pmAverage BD14

Copper ChimneyAl Hambra Hotel (1772 8699)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD10

LanternsBudaiya Highway (1759 0591)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight.Average BD15

Moti MahalJuffair (1782 5333)

Open daily noon-midnightAverage BD15

Mumbai Spice Bahrain Mall, Sanabis Open daily 10am-10pm

SangeethaOpp Inidian Club, Gudaibiya (1727 2768)Open daily 7.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm

Spices Crowne Plaza Bahrain, Diplomatic Area (1753 1122) Open daily noon-11pmAverage BD25

TakatakNr Awal Cinema, Gudaibiya (1725 4848)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm

The Great Kebab Factory Jawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 0629)Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight

International

FusionsGulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000 The food and wine list will keep you coming back to Fusions. Try the beautifully tender grilled sirloin with boldly flavoured ginger mash and a selection of roasted vegetables.

Links RestaurantThe Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777Links, located on the mezzanine floor of the Club House, is a large, brasserie-style restaurant/lounge open to all visitors to the Royal Golf Club. Features include a cocktail bar, an outdoor terrace and floor to ceiling picture windows offering patrons spectacular views across the golf courses.

Silk’sMövenpick Hotel, Tel. 1746 0000 With cuisine inspired by the four continents of the Silk Route, the food on offer here is eclectic and varied all cooked in front of you in open kitchens around the restaurant.

Yamin Jana Mediterranean Seafront LoungeDragon Hotel and Resort, Amwaj (1603 3800)Open daily from 2pm onwards

ZoeBlock 338, Adliya (1771 6400)Open Sat-Tue noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight; Wed-Fri noon-3pm, 7pm-2am.Average BD18/25

ZytounNovotel Al Dana Resort (1729 8008)Open daily 6.30am-midnight. Average BD16

American

Ric’s Kountry KitchenJuffair, Tel. 1772 5550Specialising in good ol’ fashioned home-cooked American chow, Ric’s does a mean burger, excellent chilli and a mouth watering Jambalaya. Its American breakfasts are legendary.

Applebee’sBahrain Mall, Sanabis (1755 5834)Open Sun-Thu, 11am-mid-night, Fri-Sat, 11am-1am. Average BD10

Bennigan’sAl Safir Hotel, Juffair, Tel. 1781 3750(Open 6am - 2am, all week; Also serves breakfast.)

Brasa de BrazilSeef Mall, Seef District (1758 2225)Open daily, noon-11pm. Average BD10

Chilli’sSeef Mall/Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1758 1221/1717 9794)Open daily, noon-midnight. N.B.: BCC opening times apply. Average BD20

Hard Rock CaféExhibition Road, Hoora (1729 1569)Open daily, 8am-1am. Average BD10

Italian

Cucina ItalianaAl Safir Hotel, Juffair, Tel. 1700 1317(Open 6am-2am, all week; Also serves breakfast.)

Mondo RestaurantThe Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666 The goat’s cheese and rocket pizza is probably the best in Bahrain. A funky, friendly Italian place, just like momma used to make it.

La PergolaGulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000Traditional and contemporary Italian specialities with Italian music.

Caffe Spasso New Zinj (1782 2274)Open daily 8.30am till late

Café Italia Adliya (1774 4774)Open daily noon-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.Average BD35

La Taverna City Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD18

Medzo InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308)Open daily for lunch and dinner

Mino’s Adliya (1774 4777)Open daily 11am-12.30am.Average BD15

Nino’s RestaurantAl A’ali Complex, SeefTel. 1756 6555

Copper Chimney

121 122 | Bahrain Confidential | January 2013

Listings

Restaurant Listings

OlivetoBlock 338, Adliya (1771 6747)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight. Average BD30

Pizzeria Café Italia Seef Mall (1758 2823)Open daily 11am-11pm.Average BD12

RomaUm Al Hassam (1772 5885)Open daily noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.Average BD30

Romano Macaroni GrillJuffair (1772 3818)

Japanese

SatoGulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000The food here is good. Order well and you will be rewarded with your favourite dishes done very well indeed.

BushidoSeef (1758 3555)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-2am.Average BD35

Fuji Sushi BarSheza Tower Hotel (1753 3336)Open daily 12.30pm-midnight.Average BD25

HajisushiAmerican Ally, Juffair (1772 5638)Open daily 11am-11pm.

KeiGolden Tulip Hotel (1753 5000)Open daily 12.30pm-3pm, 7.30pm-11pm.Average BD12-30

Maki MODA Mall (1752 2733)Open daily noon-midnight, Average BD40Enjoy fine, contemporary, fusion Japanese Cuisine at Maki. Taste the spicy, the tangy, the extravagant, and the exotic all in one bite! Unparalleled culinary adventure, unmatched by another, only at Maki.

MiraiAdliya (1771 3113)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm.Average BD40.

Sumo Sushi and Bento American Alley, Juffair (1771 8090)Open daily noon-midnight.

Sushi 101New Zinj (1782 2274)Open Sat-Thu noon-3pm, 6pm till late; Fri 1pm-4pm, 7pm till late.

Sushi KoAdliya (1771 6619)Open Sat-Wed 6.30pm-11pm; Thu 6.30pm-midnight.Average BD11

Yo SushiAl Aali Shopping Complex, Seef (1758 3373)Open Sat-Wed noon-midnight; Thu-Fri noon-2amAverage BD20

Middle Eastern

KosebasıBahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2322www.kosebasi.comKosebası (pronounced koshe-bashi) serves traditional Turkish mezes and main dishes true to original Southern Anatolian recipes. The centerpieces of the restaurant are a lovely ornated oven and an open charcoal grill.

Al AbraajBudaiya (1759 5656)Open daily noon-midnight

Al Arisha Um Al Hassan (1772 5414)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight

Al ArzRamada Palace Hotel (1729 6660)Open 7pm-midnight

Al FanarDiplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa (1753 1666)Open Mon-Sat 9.30pm-2am

Al HamraDelmon International Hotel (1722 4000)Open 24 hours

Al MukhayamRamada Palace HotelOpen daily 8pm-1am

Al Shama Windsor Tower Hotel (1729 7000)Open daily 9pm-2am

Al Yacout Novotel Al Dana Resort, Muharraq (1729 8008)Open daily 8pm-2am

Amwaj Dajla Iraqi Mirador Hotel, Manama (1729 8008)Open daily 8pm-2am

Anatolia Turkish RestaurantCyprus Garden, Budaiya (1769 0601)Open daily noon-11pm

Carla’sCyprus Garden, Sehla (1769 7687)Open daily noon-midnight

Dar Al TajinePhoenicia Tower Hotel, Hoora (1731 1167)Open daily 6pm-6pm

GolestanSheraton Bahrain Hotel (1753 3533)Open Sun-Fri 12.30pm-2.30pm, 7.30pm-11.30pm. Average BD12

IsfahaniHoora (1755 0567)Open daily noon-midnightAverage BD20

Khan Al MarjanAl Safir Hotel Hotel (1782 7999)Open daily 9.30pm-2am

L’SultanL’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222)Open daily noon-midnight

Laialy ZamanNr Funland, Fateh Corniche (1729 3097)Open daily 11am-4am

MarmarisAvenue 28, Sanabis (1755 5909)Open daily 11am-midnight

MaseeleeGulf Pearl Hotel, Souq (1721 0647)Open daily 5am-9.30pm

Mono LebaneseBudaiya Highway (1755 5262)Open daily noon-midnight

ParsianAdliya (1781 1511)Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-midnight.Average BD14

Persian GardenSeef (1758 600)Open noon-11pm

Persian RoomAmwaj island-the lagoonTel. 1601 0166, Mob: 3927 6249Opening Sat-Wed noon-midnight Thu-Fri noon-1am Average BD9

Rayes Fateh Corniche (1731 2700)Open daily noon-12.30amAverage BD12

Takht-e JamsheedGulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6431)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm

TarboucheCity Centre Hotel, Gold City (1722 9979)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-midnight

Wafi GourmetBahrain City Centre (1779 999)Open daily 9am-12.30am

Yas-e IsfahaniSeef Mall (1758 1151)Open daily 10am-10pm.Average BD16 Seafood

Fareast Seafood MarketRamee International Hotel, Juffair (1772 7230)Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pm.Average BD16

Fish MarketAl Bander Hotel and Resort (1770 1201)Open daily 12.30pm-11.30pmAverage BD25

La MarineBugerland Building, Budaiya (1759 5777)Open daily 1pm-midnight

Sheza Seafood Market Sheza Tower Hotel, Diplomatic Area (1753 3336)Open daily 12.30pm-midnight

Totally FishBahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9757)Open daily noon-midnight

Asian

Kontiki RestaurantThe Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel. 1753 1666Enjoy authentic dishes from Asia and the South Pacific for lunch and dinner. Or head over to the Kontiki Pool bar from 10am to 11pm.

Baan Saeng ThaiSh Isa Avenue, AdliyaOpen daily 11.30am-3pm, 6pm-midnight.

Bali Orchid Nr Omar Khayyam Hotel, Gudaibiya (1718 0424)Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD7

BamBuAdliya (1771 4424)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm. Average BD28

Captain Cove’sBehind Mass Computer, Gudaibiya (3975 8989)Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight. Average BD5

Hash HouseAdliya, Block 338 (1771 5094)Open daily 11am-midnight. Average BD15

Honey’sSouq (1774 9222)Open Sun-Wed 10am-5.30am, Fri-Sat, 24hrs.

Mamy Soup Exhibition Road, behind the CPR building (3919 5343)Open daily 11am-11pm.

MonsoonAdliya, near Ferrari Centre (1774 9222)Open Sat-Thu noon-2.30pm, 7pm-11pm; Fri 7pm-11pm. Average BD15

Nu AsiaSeef, near Al A’ali Shopping Complex (1758 7171)Open daily noon-midnight. Average BD15.

Pong’sOff Exhibition Road, Behind CPR Office (1753 0800)Open daily 11am-4am.

Thai ChiBahrain City Centre, Seef (1717 9747)Open daily noon-midnight.

Thai ExpressJawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 3595)Open daily 10am-11.30pm

ThailandBlock 338, Adliya (1771 7040)Open daily 6.30pm-11.30pm, Average BD15

Steakhouses

The Butcher Shop & GrillBahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2323Serves a wide variety of steaks as well as salads, burgers and seafood dishes. Integrated into the restaurant is also a fully functioning retail butchery, which enables customers to choose a specific cut and size or buy meats for their home requirements.

BrazilAdliya (1782 6686)Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm.

L’lleAl Areen Palace and Spa (1784 5000)Open every evening, 6pm-11pm

Legendz Steakhouse InterContinental Hotel (1720 8308)Open daily for lunch and dinner

Le Relais de Venise Son Entrecote L’Hotel, Seef (1756 7222)Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm.Average BD40

Ponderosa SteakhouseSeef - Tel. 1758 0552Open all week from 11am - 1am

Sizzlers Restaurant Mansouri Mansions Hotel (1771 6999)24 hours. Average BD10

Maki


Listings

Restaurant Listings The Meat CoBlock 338 (1774 2080)Open Sat-Wed 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7pm-11.30pm; Thu-Fri 12.30pm-midnight Average BD50

MezzalunaAdliya (1774 2999)Open daily Sun-Wed 7pm-11pm; Thu-Sat 7pm-11.30pmAverage BD46

FrenchCamelotBlock 338, Adliya (1771 7745)Open daily noon-midnightAverage BD30

L’AvenueSeef District (1756 7212)Open daily 12.30pm-3.30pm, 7.30pm-11pm

MexicanCasa Mexicana Adliya (1771 5521)Open daily noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight.Average BD18

Margarita MexicanaGulf Hotel, Adliya (1774 6462)Open daily noon-3pm, 7pm-11pm

Senior Paco’sAdliya (1774 6462)Open daily noon-3pm, 6.30pm-midnight.Average BD18

PolynesianTrader Vic’sRitz Carlton Hotel and Spa, Seef (1758 6555)Open daily 7pm-midnightAverage BD20

Thai

Royal Thai Seafood RestaurantGulf Hotel, Tel. 1771 3000Colonial stateliness and Asian adornment is the order of the day with high ceilings, great white pillars and multiple levels to accommodate private alcoves; it’s a grand and gracious setting. Choose ostrich, just because you can.

Muay Thai Quick Meal RestaurantJuffair Next to The Pizza Company Thai Food, Tel. 7704 0454Daily Open: 12pm-12am

Cafés

Café TThe Royal Golf Club, Tel. 1775 0777Café T serves a selection of burgers, salads, fresh and ready-made sandwiches, fruit juices, milkshakes and frozen drinks. With an outdoor terrace seating up to 30 people and relaxing background music, Café T is the perfect place to meet up for a chat with friends.

PAUL Bakery & RestaurantBahrain City Centre, Tel. 1717 2321Seef Mall, Tel. 1758 0073www.paul.frSince the founding of the first small PAUL bakery in Lille back in 1889, the passion for authentic bread making has been passed on through generations. - and relax in PAUL’s unique ‘rustic-chic’ ambience.

A LoungeAdliya, Behind Monsoon (1771 0041)Open daily, 11am-2am. Average BD15

Al BindairaAdliya (1774 4066)Open Mon-Thu, 10.30am-12.30am, Fri, 1pm-1am. Average BD12

Albareh Art Café Adliya, Behind the Carlton Hotel (1771 3535)Open daily, 8.30am-11pm. Average BD5

Al Riwaq CaféAdliya, Block 338 (1771 7441)Open daily 10am-9pm. Average BD5

Aroma Restaurant & CafeGround Floor, Seef Mall, Seef DistrictOpen for lunch and dinner (1758 2711)

Café Lilou Adliya, Block 338 (1771 4440)Open Sat-Thu 8am-11pm; Fri 10am-11.30pm. Average BD10

Candles CoffeeAdliya, Behind Fudruckers (1771 4844)Open Sun-Thu 9am-1am; Fri 5pm-1am, Average BD12

Caramel Cyprus Gardens, Budaiya (1779 7087)Open daily, 8.30am-midnight. Average BD5.

Café Ceramique Al A’ali Mall, Seef District Open daily, 9am-11pm; Fri-Sat 9am-midnight. Average BD8

Coco’s Adliya, Block 338 (1771 6512)Open daily 10am-midnight. Average BD10

Columbus CaféBahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 2324)Open daily, 8am-midnight. Average BD7

Crepe Café Palm Square, Budaiya Highway (7711 5566)Open Sun-Wed, 8am-midnight. Thu-Sat 8am-1pm. Average BD6

Deli FranceJawad Dome, Budaiya (1769 6031)Open Sun-Thu, 8am-10pm; Fri-Sat, 8am-11pm. Average BD9

Dome CaféJuffair, near American Base (1781 0180)Open 24 hours. Average BD15

Friend’s ClubAdliya, 54 Bani Otbah Avenue (1771 3732)Open Sat-Wed, 10am-midnight; Thu-Fri, 10am-1am. Average BD8

Gloria Jean’sBahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9262)Open Sat-Wed, 9am-10.30pm; Thu-Fri, 9am-midnight. Average BD8

House of CoffeeMuharraq, Sheikh Ebrahim Centre (3662 9968)Open daily 9am-9pm, Average BD6

La Maison du Café Adliya (1771 7524)Open daily 8am-2am. Average BD12

La VentanaAt the moment La Ventana is currently undergoing renovation – check this space over the coming months to find out where the new café is located and our opinion!

Le ChocolatSeef, Seef District Open daily 7.30am-midnight. Average BD10

MacaronSofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa (17636418)Open daily from 8am-8pm

Maya ChocolatSeef Mall, Seef District Open Sun-Wed, 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-midnight. Average BD15

Med CaféAdliya, near Carlton Hotel (1771 3088)Open daily 11am-1am. Average BD10 Motorox CaféBudaiya Highway (1759 2583)Open daily from noon-midnight. Average BD12

Palm CaféQal’at Al Bahrain Museum (1732 2549)Open daily 9.30am-7.30pm. Average BD6

Patisserie ValerieMODA Mall, Diplomatic AreaOpen daily 7.30am-9pm

Skyw@alk CaféMarriott Executive Apartments, JuffairOpen daily 6.30am-11.30pm. Average BD12

Tea ClubThe Lagoon, Amwaj IslandsOpen daily 12pm-midnight. Average BD8

Tilly’sJawad Dome, BudaiyaOpen daily 8.30am-9.30pm

VerandaAdliya, Nr HSBC bank and Adhari (1771 5868)Open daily 9.am-1am. Average BD8

WaterlemonAl A’ali Shopping Complex, Seef District (1758 1785)Open daily, 10am-11pm. Average BD6

Chocolatiers GodivaSeef Mall, Seef District (1758 0699)Open 10am-10pm

Hotel Chocolat Bahrain City Centre, Seef District (1717 9779)Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight

La PapillonManama, near Dairy Queen (1725 5542)Open daily 9.30am-9pm

Lovely Memories Mahooz (1772 2533)Open daily 10am-10pm

Maya La Chocolaterie Seef Mall (1758 3368) Open daily, Sun-Thursday 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-12am

PatchiManama, near Dairy Queen (1725 0501)Open daily 9.30am-9pm

RAWASI ChocolaMahooz, near Qatar EmbassyOpen daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm. Fri open from 4pm-9pm

SalviaBudaiya, Budaiya HighwayOpen daily 9am-1.30pm; 4pm-9pm. Fri open from 4pm-9pm

To be included, email: [email protected] or call +973 1782 2368.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & SpaSo Brunch - Saraya, Wok and Fiamma International Buffet Selection and Live stations.BD 26/net per person inclusive of soft drinks, chilled juices, free flow of sparkling wine, red and white wine, beers and a cocktail of the day.Kids below 6 are free of charge and between 6-12 years old get 50% off.Every Friday from 12.30-4pmTel. +973 1763 6410

Saraya - International All Day DiningInternational Buffet for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and A la carte throughout the day.A la carte throughout the day, all week.Open daily from 6.30am-11pmBreakfast Buffet: BD11++Lunch Buffet: BD12.5++ (BD15 net)Dinner Buffet: BD12.5++ (BD15 net)Tel. +973 1763 6410

Fiamma - Italian RestaurantRegional Italian cuisines with a wide selection of wines for Lunch and Dinner.Monday to Saturday (Closed on Sunday)12:30pm-3pm (Thurs, Fri, Sat)7-11pmTel. +973 1763 6414

Pashawat - Arabic Restaurant (Opening Soon)Open Tuesday - Sunday (Closed on Monday)7pm-12midnightTel. +973 1763 6413

Wok - Asian RestaurantAuthentic Southeast Asian Cuisine. A la Carte Dinner - 7-11pm. Wednesday - Monday (Closed on Tuesday)Tel. +973 1763 6415

La Mer - Seafood Restaurant Open Daily for A la carte Dinner - 7-11pm.Large international wine selection.Tel. +973 1763 6411

Tapas Bar Open Daily for Lunch and DinnerOpen from 11.30am - 12midnightFood Available between 11.30am - 3.30pm and 7pm - 12midnightTel. +973 1763 6412

Lagoon - Pool Bar Lunch and DinnerOpen Daily - light snacks; A la carte from 9am until sunsetTel. +973 1763 6416

Lobby Lounge and Macaron Pastry ShopLobby Lounge: 8am-12midnightMacaron: 8am-8pm. French pastries, Baked Viennoiseries and Macarons.Tel. +973 1763 6418

Amber - Cocktail BarOpen Daily from 6pm-2amTel. +973 1763 6419


Listings

Sports, Fitness and Kids Fitness/Aerobics/Spinning

Al Safir 1781 3815Fitness First 1332 2200The Regency 1722 7777The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666Curves (Budaiya) 1769 1496Ez Fit Sports Complex 1769 2378 Image Spa & Leisure (Sheraton Hotel) 1752 4570The Health Club (Gulf Hotel) 1771 3000Nautilus (Crown Plaza) 1753 0764Sports Club & Spa, Ritz-Carlton 1758 9380Al Gosaibi Gym 1729 3221Ghassan’s Gym 1769 5911(mat and private classes available) La Fontaine Centre 1723 0123World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576

Badminton

Bapco Club 1775 3666Telgu Kala Samithi 1727 6300The Indian Club 1725 3157

Basketball

EZ Fit Sports Complex 1769 2378Bahrain Basketball Association 1774 1010

Bowling

Al Bander Hotel & Resort 1770 1201Awali Bowling Centre 1775 3666Bahrain Bowling Association 1782 2077Bapco Club 1775 3666Funland Centre 1729 2313

Cricket

EZ Fit Sports Complex 1769 2378Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809SLC Grounds, Riffa Thursdays, 1727 6134 Training 3pm to 5pm

Cycling

Bahrain Cycling Association 1765 0079

Dance

Bahrain Ballet Centre 1769 3232Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717Latin Dance Bahrain 3967 6349Sampaguita Club 3910 6589Sayaw Unlimited Dance Club 3982 7096Victoria Dance Centre 3987 6215World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576Profiles Fitness Centre 1772 7766Pineapple 1771 2000

Football

Al Ahli Sports Club 1727 7712Al Hala Sports Club 1734 2182Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809British Club 1772 8245Dilmun Club 1769 2986EZ Fit Sports Complex 1769 2378Arsenal Soccer School 1756 1615

Golf

Awali Club 1775 6770Royal Golf Club 1775 0777

Go Karting/Racing

Rally Town 1753 1165BIC 1745 0000 Silver go-Karts (Tubli) 1778 0011Gulf Speed One (Seef) 3944 4137

Ice Skating

Funland Centre 1729 2313

Martial Arts

Japan Karate Association 3944 9628/3667 2204 Profiles Fitness Centre (Boxing for ladies) 1772 7766Zen-Do 1761 1909Bahrain Karate Centre 3947 7709Goju Karate Club 3965 9510World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576Bahrain Karate-do Academy 3665 7059

Where To GoAl Areen Wildlife Park 1783 6116

Adhari Park 1740 7300North of the Shaikh Isa Bin Sulman Highway Fun for all ages, includes a sports camp, groovy town, discovery village and indoor entertainmentChildren’s Health Academy of Specialised Sports

Chaoss 1759 2096Swimming, gymnastics, dance and Taekwon-Do for children and teenagers.

Dolphin Park 1729 3109Corniche next to Marina Club One hour marine mammal show.

Funland 1729 2313Corniche next to Marina Club Bowling and Ice Skating everyday.

Hawar Island 1731 1770Day trips to Hawar Island, boats depart from Ad Dur Jetty at 10am daily

Kid’s Kingdom Corniche, next to the Hawar reservation officeA small outdoor playground. Good fun for young children. Open until late.

Magic Island Seef Mall Over 120 different games and attractions and Bahrain’s only indoor Roller Blade Arena.

Playland 1774 2266/1762 0999Above Fuddruckers in Adliya An indoor centre full of games. Each ride costs 100 fils. Tokens available.

Soft Play 3965 3678Future Shape Dance Studio, Garden City Every Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am Children under the age of six months attend for free. www.softplaybahrain.com

Studio Ceramics 1759 9026Budaiya Highway Pottery painting and more. Open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday, or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible.

Water Garden Salmaniya 1726 2034Near Dairy Queen roundaboutA semi-filled lake with paddleboats and birds. School & Nurseries

Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain 1717 3000 Bahrain City CentreOpening Hours:Saturday to Tuesday: 11am to 8pmWednesday: 11am to 10pm (Ladies Night 5pm to 10pm)Thursday and Friday: 11am to 9 PM

The Tourist Department(Tel. 1721 1717) is located in the gate to Manama’s souq, Bab al-Bahrain, on the ground floor next to the tourist shop, Times: 8am to 12 and 4.30pm to 6pm, closed on Friday.

CurrencyThe Bahrain Dinar (BD) is pegged to the US dollar at the rate of US$1=BD0.377 - in other words a dinar is worth about $2.65. It is a convertible currency with no restrictions on its import or export. Tip: the Saudi Riyal (SR) is also accepted

Things to knowin shops for purchases at an exchange rate of BD1=SR10 (less in hotels) and you may be given Saudi money as change.

Business HoursFriday is the Islamic equivalent of the Christian Sunday. The weekend falls on a Friday and a Saturday. Most shopping malls and commercial centres are generally open seven days a week.

Creative Kids Art ClassesPaint In Space 1762 6232Chaoss 1759 2096Dar Albareh 1771 3535/3906 9016Celebrations 1759 5791Bahrain Art Society 1759 0551Indian Institute for Performing Arts 1723 1717The Studio 3975 4863Studio Ceramics 1759 9026Things to Do 1759 0409

DramaFilm-making workshops 3600 1777

Kids Gyms/GymnasticsMy Gym, www.my-gym.com 1756 6566 EZ Fit 1769 2378World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576Chaoss 1759 2096

LibrariesAwali Library (BAPCO, Awali) 1775 3666British Club (Times vary) 1772 8245Iqra’s Children’s Library Muharraq) 1732 0955

Music LessonsBahrain Music Institute 1772 1999Kindermusik Bahrain 1761 3144/3925 6904Room to Rock 1761 1785

Play CentresChakazoolu Indoor Theme Park 1755 8500www.danamall.net Chaoss 1759 2096Funland Centre 1729 2313 (bowling, ice skating, pool)www.funlandcentre.com Mad Science 1759 1136Magic Island, www.seefmall.net 1758 2898My Gym, 1756 6566 Softplay at Dilmun Club 1769 0926Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark 1784 5100 www.lpodwaterpark.com

Play GroupsChaoss, Off Budaiya Highway 1759 2096 Kindermusik 3925 6904/1761 3144Ajyaal Montessori Pre-SchoolMini Storytellers, British School 3912 9585(4 to 7 year olds) Musical Babies, Nadeen School 1772 8886My Gym, Seef District 1756 6566Rhymes & Chimes, Dilmun Club 3929 6848Soft Play, Off Budaiya Highway 3965 3678Sticky Fingers 3961 8340Storytellers, British School 3912 9585(7 to 11 year olds) Tots & Toddlers Group, 1772 8245The British ClubWriggly Readers, British School 3912 9585(for pre-schoolers) www.mumsinbahrain.net

Meditation/Yoga

Art of Living 3988 8760Dessange 1771 3999 (Yoga classes offered several times a week)Bahrain Meditation Centre Bahrain 1779 5961(Wellness Resort) Saturdays and Wednesdays. 7pm to 8.30pm, Mixed yoga classes. Sundays and Tuesdays (Ladies Only), 10am to12pm Bayoga Centre 1772 5027Daily yoga classes, relaxing yoga and meditation for beginners and advanced students. World Beat Fitness Centre 1761 2576The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666Reiki Master And Teacher Melanie 3933 0911offers Reiki sessions and coursesor www.reikibahrain.comAnubhaa Sharma [email protected]

Netball

Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809(Thurs) 4.45pm for girls; (Sun) 7.30pm for women Riffa Views Netball League 3630 6946

Rugby

Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809

Snooker

Bahrain Snooker Association 1782 5301 Jimmy’s Snooker and Billiards Club 1771 6147

Squash

Bahrain Badminton and 1729 2662 Squash Federation The Country Club 1759 3593Al Bander Resort 1770 1201Nautilus (Crowne Plaza) 1753 0764The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666

Horse Riding

Awali Riding Club 1775 6525Saturdays to Thursdays, 7am to 7pm. Fridays 7am to 6pm. Desert rides. Qualified instructors Bahrain Riding School 1769 0448 Daily rides 4pm to 6pm Dilmun Club 1769 2986Sundays to Thursdays. 8am to 11am and 3pm to 7.30pm Shakhoora Riding School 1759 1103Sundays to Thursdays, 8am to 12noon, 3.30pm to 7pm The Country Club 1759 3593Fridays Horse riding in paddock, 1pm to 4pm Twin Palms Riding Centre 1759 1668

Swimming Lessons

British Club 1772 8245Dilmun Club 1769 2986Ritz Carlton Sports Club 1758 0001The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666

Watersports

Bahrain Sailing School 1731 0252Coral Beach Club 1721 2700The Marina Club 1729 1527The Sailing Club 1783 6078The Yacht Club 1770 0677Aquatique - Organised pearl diving 1727 1780Al Bander Resort 1770 1201Bahrain Swimming Association 1768 0867Dilmun Club 1769 0926

Tennis

Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561 The British Club 1722 8245The Country Club 1759 3593Dilmun Club 1769 2986Gulf Hotel 1771 3000Marina Club 1729 1527The Diplomat Radisson Blu 1753 1666Bahrain Tennis Club 1772 9561/1772 9756Filipino Club Tennis Group 3952 7587


Listings

American CurriculumAl Hekma International Tel. 1762 0820/1762 3999Modern Knowledge Schools Tel. 1772 7712Riffa Views International School Tel. 1656 5000The Bahrain School Tel. 1762 0820

British CurriculumAl Mahd Day Boarding Tel. 1779 2422British School Tel. 1761 0920Budaiya Preschool Tel. 1779 1491Dilmun School (elementary) Tel. 1771 3483KG Kids Tel. 1766 3556St Christopher’s School Tel. 1778 8108 Sacred Heart School Tel. 1768 4367Talent International and The Infant School Tel. 1725 2346/1777 0078

Nurseries and CrechesAl Dana Nursery Tel. 1725 3541Dana Pre-school, Riffa Tel. 1777 0180Lilliput, Budaiya Tel. 1769 4947

24-Hour PharmaciesJaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 202330 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901Muwasaa Pharmacy Tel. 1733 5666Shaikh Mohd bin Salman Avenue, Road 205, Muharraq.

Courier & Express Delivery

Tel. 1733 0434

Tel. 1736 4100

Tel. 1734 9199

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in Bahrain except for visitors from Gulf Co-operation Council states, U.S.A., Canada, countries in the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. The offices of car-hire companies are easily encountered at the airport. Recommended principal rental firms include:

Budget Rent A Car Tel. 1753 4100National Car Rental Tel. 1723 1156Avenue Car Rental and Leasing Tel. 1771 3181

Embassies & ConsulatesEmbassies generally open from 8am to 1pm from Saturday to Wednesday and some Arab embassies also open on Thursday. Many embassies have a number of staff on call outside these hours for emergencies.Algeria 1771 3669Bangladesh 1771 4717China 1772 3800Denmark 1772 5119Egypt 1772 0005France 1729 8660Germany 1753 0210India 1771 2785Iran 1772 2400Iraq 1774 1472Italy 1725 2424Japan 1771 6565Jordan 1729 1109Kuwait 1753 4040Lebanon 1778 6994

Malaysia 1756 4551Morocco 1774 0566Netherlands 1759 1568Oman 1729 3663Pakistan 1724 4113Palestine 1727 6099Philippines 1725 0990Portugal 1753 6709Qatar 1772 2922Russia 1772 5222Saudi Arabia 1753 7722Switzerland 1753 1166Syria 1772 2484Trade Mission of Taiwan 1729 2578Thailand 1727 4142Tunisia 1771 4149Turkey 1753 3448UAE 1771 0333UK 1757 4100UN Info Centre 1731 1676USA 1724 2700

Flight InformationAirline offices are normally open from 8am to 12.30pm and from 3pm to around 5pm, Saturday till Wednesday.Flight Info 1733 9339Air India 1729 6444British Airways 1758 7777Cathay Pacific 1722 6226Emirates 1758 8700Gulf Air 1733 5777Jet Airways 1722 7114KLM 1722 9747 Kuwait Airways 1722 3300 Lufthansa 1782 8762PIA 1722 3808Qatar Airways 1721 2202Saudi Airlines 1721 1550

Hospitals & ClinicsEmergency 999American Mission Hospital (AMH) 1725 3447Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) 1779 0025Bahrain Specialist Hospital 1781 2000Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital 1782 8282Salmaniya Hospital 1728 8888

Telephone HelplineIntl. calls via operator 151Directory enquiries 181Directory enquiries - Intl. 191Other phone enquiries 100Speaking clock 140

Essential Info

SchoolsOther Private SchoolsAl Noor International School Tel. 1773 6773Ecole Francaise de Bahrain Tel. 1732 3770Ibn Khuldoon National School Tel. 1778 0661Shaikha Hessa Girls’ SchoolTel. 1775 6111

Special NeedsDisabled Sports Federation Tel. 1778 9191Hope Institute Tel. 1768 0815/1768 0500R.I.A. Institute Tel. 1771 6871 The Children’s Academy Tel. 1761 3234UCO Parents Care Centre Tel. 1767 7717

Animal WelfareAl Ahli Animal Centre 1762 2102/3965 4343BSPCA 1759 1231Delmon Kennels & Training 3971 7609Jassim Veterinary Centre (Sugaya) 1723 1242Modern Animal Health Centre (Budaiya) 1759 0908Nonie Coutts Surgery, (Manama and Saar) 1724 5515Pet Arabia 1759 2288 Saar Kennels 1779 2064

Art SocietiesElham 1771 7441La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art 1723 0123The Bahrain Contemporary Art Society 1772 8046

Charitable OrganisationsAlia for Early Intervention 1773 0960Bahrain Cancer Society 3960 3489/1723 3080Bahrain Charity Society 1729 3363Bahrain Disabled Sports Committee 1778 9191Bahrain Human Rights Society 1753 1822Bahrain Red Crescent Society 1729 3171Friendship Society for the Blind 1762 4496Hope Institute for the Handicapped 1768 0815Islamic Enlightenment Society 1772 0053Lions Club of Bahrain 3908 0097Manama Rotary Club 3939 4522Migrant Workers Protection Society 3946 5378Overseas Workers Welfare Admin. 1721 3825Palm Association 1779 0826/3964 3211Riffa Cultural and Charity Society 1777 5444Think Pink 3907 6717BSPCA 1759 1231/1759 3479

Gallery/CraftsAl Riwaq Art Space 1771 7441Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre 1761 1900 Art Lounge 1758 0522Traditional crafts including palm weaving, pottery and woodwork. Bahrain Arts Society 1759 0551Thursdays drawing and painting for Children, 18 hours @ BD25, 10am to 12pm Saturdays and Mondays drawing and Painting for adults, 18 hours @ BD30, 3pm to 7pm. Bahrain Pottery Society 1778 6898 Clay pottery, ceramic and painting lessons - Saturdays and Mondays, 5pm. Crafts Centre Gallery and Workshop 1756 8032Arabic calligraphyCaravan Galleries 3996 5853Kerala Arts and Cultural Association 3963 9319The Studio 3975 4863Pottery painting and more for adults and children, open 9.30am to 6pm Sunday to Thursday or by appointment. Birthday parties and private group bookings possible. Shaikh Ibrahim Cultural 3940 2302/1732 2549 and Research Centre Studio Ceramics 1759 9026

“Help”24-Hour Helpline for Distressed 3987 3357Alcoholics Anonymous 1753 0020Narcotics Anonymous 1753 3558

BridgeBahrain Bridge Club 3960 7219Bahrain Bridge Committee 3968 7190

DartsBalouch Club 1729 2231 Sri Lanka Club 1729 7878

ChessBahrain Chess Federation 1725 2133

PhotographyAwali Photo Society 1776 4468 Bahrain Arts Society 3966 7751

ScrabbleBahrain Scrabble League 1724 2641Bahrain Kannada Sangha 1727 1157 Saturdays. 6.30pm.

Speech & DramaBahrain Cinema Club 1772 5959Dilmun Amateur Dramatics Society 1769 0926 Folk Poetry Society 1776 1000 Manama Theatre Club 1777 6489 Manama Toastmasters Club 3965 5676

Ladies ClubsAmerican Association of Bahrain 1756 4170American Women’s Association 1775 6075 Australian Association of Bahrain 3910 1348Awali Ladies Association 1767 8947Bahrain Business Women’s Society 1772 1188Bahrain Garden Club 1772 7625Bahrain Women Society 1782 6777 Bahrain Young Ladies Society 1727 3508 BYLS-Toastmasters Club 1762 6237Get together for Ladies 3917 4247/3902 7892Indian Ladies Association 3980 5372 International Ladies Group 1772 9128 Madinat Hamad Women Society 3964 3396Contact person Amal 3987 8758Pakistani Women’s Association 1771 0944Second Sunday Newcomers 3927 0413/3641 1368

Language SchoolsAl Quran Translation 1764 5156Bait Al Taleem 1764 3199 Berlitz 1782 7847British Council 1726 1555Carousel 3967 3635 Lingua English Saturdays. Mondays and Wednesdays. English Language Classes, 4.30pm to 6pm, 4pm to 5.30pm. English Language Centre 1770 0040Lingo - Ease Language Centre Budaiya Highway 1759 0895

Social ClubsAlliance Française 1768 3295Assamese Community 3909 1959Awali Caledonian Society 3636 6458Bahrain Caledonian Society 3944 0658Bahrain Hash House Harriers 1786 2620Bahrain Irish Society [email protected] Kannada Sangha 1727 1257Bahrain Round Table 3960 8568Bahrain Rugby Football Club 1769 5809Bahrain Welsh Society 1772 7127Balouch Club 1729 2231British Club 1772 8245 ext. 32Bhatia Mitra Mandal 3960 1789Country Club 1759 3593Dilmun Club 1769 0926Filipino Club 1726 2143Indian Club 1725 3157 Karnataka Social Club 1725 4257Pakistan Club 1725 8520Pakistan Association 3941 5200Royal Society of St. George 3972 6329 Saar Cultural & Sports Club 1779 0335Shree Nayrana Cultural Society 1725 5517Shri Gujarati Samaj 3962 4285Sri Lanka Club 1727 6134 Wisdom Home Society 1772 7575

WellbeingKelly Armatage Inc.Offering counselling, life coaching and cognitive behavioural therapy sessionsMob: 3993 1399Email: [email protected]

Clubs & Associations

Things to knowTaxisTaxis are easily available in the capital, Manama, and have meters but be sure to make the driver use the meter. 99% of drivers won’t switch on the meter and will try to charge you double the legal fare. Beware!

Confidential Tip: BD1 per five minutes in the cab is the most you should pay for an un-metered journey. If traveling from the airport or busy taxi rank, add BD2/after midnight add BD1 to the total e.g. a 10 minute drive from the airport after midnight should cost you no more than BD5 (BD2 + BD2 + BD1= BD5). Taxis do use meters and companies may use similar rates.

Avoiding OffenceGenerally speaking, very short skirts and tight midriff tops are frowned upon in public, although acceptable by hotel pools, in private clubs and on the beach. If visiting a mosque, cover the body well (women should ensure that arms and legs and hair are fully covered). Shoes should always be left outside the entrance.

Car Hire


News Bites

BizarreNewsOut-of-the-ordinary news bits gathered by our Bahrain Confidential Team from around the world.

Man Cheats Death After Speeding Train Hits His HeadStephen Wright had been standing on the edge of the railway platform feeling nauseous and did not spot the train speeding towards him. As he leant over, he felt a bang on his head from the packed commuter train, which was not scheduled to stop at the station. Although in deep shock and bleeding from the mouth, he managed to stagger across the platform with his sons and board a waiting train to Stratford afterwards. Baffled police searched the tracks all night in vain for his body after the alarm was raised, and the line was closed for two hours. He went to King George Hospital in Goodmayes the day after his ordeal, suffering swelling to his head and neck as well as whiplash. But after undergoing two brain scans he was given the all-clear.

Men Who Get on Well with Mothers-in-Law Less Likely to DivorceHusbands who enjoy a good relationship with their in-laws have a 20 per cent higher chance of avoiding divorce, an American study has found. However, the opposite is true for women. Wives

who get on well with their in-laws are 20 per cent more likely to split up. According to the sresearch, women who enjoy the company of their in-laws may become too involved with their husband’s family, to the point where wives believe their in-laws are meddling. Men do not share the same worries, which could explain the discrepancy between husbands

and wives. It’s a positive aspect of a relationship if men get on well with their in-laws because “these ties connect the husband to the wife”. However, women do not view relationships with in-laws in the same way. Because relationships are so important to women, their identity as a wife and mother is central to their being. They interpret what their in-laws say and do as interference into their identity as a spouse and parent.

Gorilla Statue Vanishes from Orlando HotelA gorilla statue valued at USD5,000 was stolen from a poolside tiki bar in Florida, police said. The 3-foot-tall metal statue disappeared from the Orlando Metropolitan Express. Police told the Orlando Sentinel the gate to the pool area is left unlocked for the guests’ convenience and there are no security cameras that would have caught the gorilla-napping.

Fake Plane Crash Fools TV StationA Chicago TV station spent about 15 minutes reporting on a plane crash that turned out to be simulated for the TV series “Chicago Fire.” WGN-TV reported on the crash, which was a simulated scene for NBC series “Chicago Fire,” complete with a small plane with its left wing splintered off, police cars and ambulance and extras acting as spectators. Police said they did not receive any calls about the fake plane crash, but the Chicago Fire Department sent out an alert asking residents to disregard the scene.

University Receives Apology Toilet PaperA graduate of Eastern New Mexico University sent the school a package of toilet paper with a card explaining it was to make up for a college prank. The school said the student sent the package of toilet paper to ENMU’s purchasing department with a Christmas card bearing a handwritten message. The anonymous graduate said the 80 rolls of toilet paper are meant to make up for a prank from years ago.” Years ago when I was a young immature college student I took toilet paper from your dormitory as a prank,” the card reads. “I apologise for that and offer this case. Jesus Christ has made such a difference in my life and has prompted me to repay for any sins I’ve done even from so long ago. God Bless and Merry Christmas.”

Rare James Bond Manuscript with Ian Fleming Notes to Fetch GBP80,000A rare manuscript of a James Bond novel featuring Ian Fleming’s handwritten corrections could fetch as much as GBP80,000 at auction. The Diamonds Are Forever script features Fleming’s alterations on almost every page and was prepared by his secretary Ulrica Knowles, a real-life Miss Moneypenny. A first edition of Fleming’s completed novel, with a note from the author to Knowles, is also going under the hammer alongside the manuscript. The original text includes name changes for some of the key characters in the plot, which tells the story of a diamond smuggling scheme involving American gangsters.” There is a huge amount of interest in Ian Fleming and James Bond at present,” said Dr Gabriel Heaton, a literature specialist at Sotheby’s, who is conducting the auction.” There are relatively few manuscripts and typescripts of the James Bond novels which come to the market.” It is a very unusual thing to have and would make a magnificent addition to a collection, whether it be an institution or a private James Bond collection.”


Lifestyle

Leo23 July - 21 AugustJanuary 2013 you may find yourself with more than one run in with the

authority figures in your life. With Mars in Aquarius at

opposition with Leo all month, you will find various people looking down on you with a less than favorable demeanor. Leo will just have to withstand the pressure and remember The Sun is your planet, and if you try your best to resist you will make those uncaring individuals realise Leo cannot be pushed around.

Taurus20 April - 20 MaySaturn at opposition in Scorpio during January

2013 is ideally placed to improve your work and career

chances. You will find gaining new skills comes very easy to Taurus. Make the most of this opportunity to self develop and make some major networking connections to improve your chances of promotion too.

Aquarius20 January - 18 FebruaryA very good period for love

and finance. There will be a rise in income. Have some

excellent financial growth opportunities. Brings lots of love in your personal life.

Aries21 March - 19 April January 2013 is an ideal time for Aries to get

away from it all and visit somewhere warm and sunny. It

is more important for you as an Aries to take time away from it all rather than worry about who you should take with you. This is me time. Have the confidence to plan a trip alone.

HoroscopesVirgo 22 August - 21 SeptemberA new year and a renewed

enthusiasm for Virgo in January 2013. With little of

negative focus primed for Virgo there is opportunity in many aspects of your life to make progress. This is especially true in the work place as your career options are at maximum during the next month or so. Make the most of things but keep your feet on the ground. Don’t allow your powers of persuasion to push other people out of joint.

Capricorn 22 December - 19 January

A great time for financial discussions. Love life will

be positive. Have some exotic romantic opportunities. You will really have your hands full throughout this month.

Gemini21 May - 21 JuneFor Gemini, January 2013 is a time to take full

charge of your own destiny and not rely on anyone else

to provide for your needs. Since the ingress of Jupiter many months ago you have allowed too many chances to pass you by. With a relatively quiet time for Gemini this month, you can easily make this work to your advantage.

Cancer22 June - 22 JulySome people do not know when to keep their own

mouth shut. Some people find it much easier to accuse

others of ineptitude rather than look at their own failings. Add to this the negative alignments at opposition with Cancer in January 2013 and there is every possibility of you being on the receiving end. Stay cool and trust to karma. Swings and roundabouts also have a way of working their magic.

Libra22 September - 22 OctoberThis year 2013 shall see

many of your long term plans and ideas taking wings. Your

conscience and values might be put to test as the year progresses. There would be a period which would be devoid of any sort of inspirations as well. Much of your personal and financial needs shall materialize now. Do get in touch with those around you, the near and dear ones. Communication shall come in much handy in times of need.

Scorpio23 October - 22 NovemberJanuary 2013 would bring

happiness. Progress will rise due to your hard work. This is

not a favourable time for taking risks. During this month, you will be full of enthusiasm. Overall this period will be very pleasant.

Sagittarius 23 November - 21 DecemberThis is a favourable time

for love and romance. Your efforts will instil a sense of love

and self belief in you.

Pisces19 February - 20 MarchBalancing tradition and

convention with innovation and inventiveness is in the

spotlight. You are like a butterfly ready to emerge yet are still in the cocoon phase. Even so, your wings are growing. It is important that you be your best friend now, more than usual. Vote for yourself and make others aware of who you are and what gifts you wish to share with a wider audience.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit” - Aristotle


Opinion

by Mohammad T. Al [email protected]

Personal Views from KSA

Mohammad Rasheed clarifies why our maddening fascination and outright obsession with a certain kind of future is a matter that defies explanation.

appy New Year! If you are reading this and nursing a headache, then the Mayan calendar is just as silly and obtuse as was Nostradamus. We were told that on

12th December, 2012 we all will perish and the world will come to an end --according to the venerable Mayans. Some said it will be 21st December and not 12th switching the digits does not really make that much of a difference. In any case, predictions are for the gullible and the rabble.

Some mad people posted online that the only place that would survive is a little village in France. French police and government officials were, at the time of writing, taking all precautions in expectation of a flood of humanity to disturb that picturesque little village. How much more proof do you need to believe in human folly and madness? We all will die --in good time I suppose, which means to each his own hour. As for the ‘world’, rest assured that time will take care of that according to the laws of physics governing the universe. Why rush it? Indeed, why anticipate it? Think positive: if we all die, you won’t have to worry about paying the bills you piled up during the ‘festive’ season. Who would wish for more relief than that? Granted you will not have the pleasure of seeing your father in law’s face when he finds out that you bought him the same tie as last Christmas’ (you know, the one with hippos wearing pink swimsuits) and he’ll have to go and return it again. And when asked about it by your spouse, you smugly say that you did not see him wearing it all of the past year

and you had thought he had lost it.Smugness vs. debt relief, life (and in this

case death) is a trade off. Take your pick. Seriously though, our maddening

fascination and outright obsession with a certain kind of future is a matter that defies explanation. Sure enough, I understand that it stems from our fears and hopes, but since it cannot be altered, why predict it? When it actually happens, we shall know. President François Mitterrand, who was a thinker and

a writer and was known for his skeptical views about any kind of deity, was asked on television the night he was to relinquish the presidency of France, what he would expect to hear when he dies and meets God after all. He simply said, “God will simply tell me, now you know.” Now there’s a man comfortable in his theological and futuristic shoes. And he needed not exchange those shoes for any fisherman’s.

There are matters that force us to look into the future to be able to act today. We, for example, have to plan ahead in our financial ventures, personal and national.

What we do today in such matters, will rebound on us or our children in the future. But that has nothing to do with doom and gloom. It is called sound economics. Tea leaves will not help a nation trek the long and hard way from economic slumps and the woes of unemployment. Of course, you wouldn’t know it these days if you watch political figures struggling with their ignorance. But that’s looking into the past and not the future since in most cases you voted them there in the first place. Thank God we don’t suffer this misfortune here and have the pleasure of protesting innocence since we have no boxes to tick.

Philosophers protest that true liberty is simply the liberation from the fear of death. They are right of course. And that is why you don’t find a philosopher worth a pinch of his salt who would worry about the ‘future’ or try to find predictions. And, at the end of the game, this is the hub of our madness: fear of death. Like a criminal revisiting the site of his crime, we keep coming back to this neighborhood by predicting our collective demise. What an exercise in futility. If we must worry about the future, it is our next harvest that we should worry about in view of global warming. We should rethink our fuel consumption habits for the next half century. We should stop killing whales simply to satisfy an appetite. We should consider fresh water sources in a world that is increasingly dry. Now that’s a future worth looking into. Why? Because it is a future of life and not death.

And if all goes wrong and we all die in a single blow of some sort, we can at least die smugly smiling knowing we did our best

H“Think positive: if we all die, you won’t have to worry about paying the bills you piled up during the ‘festive’ season. Who would wish for more relief than that?”

A Future Of Life,

Not Death

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