FACT Bahrain March 2022 by Fact ME

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Staycation mode *T&C AP P LY

VIDAHOTELS.COM

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7748 8100

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18 26 38

Spring of Culture

Cover Story

Island Rides

CONTENTS

48 62 78 Plugged In

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Culinary Spotlight

Staycation

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Wake up to the breathaking views of the Arabian Gulf and enjoy the ultimate retreat at one of our 3-bedroom seaside Villas. The villas are the perfect antidote for a stressful week at work or can serve as a holiday home to enjoy quality time with the family. For reservations, call +973 1758 0000 or visit ritzcarlton.com/bahrain.

Bahrain Residents rate starts from BHD 675++, offer is applicable for Villa reservations for up to 6 persons including in-villa breakfast. Offer is subject to availability, exclusive of taxes, gratuities, fees and other charges; does not apply to groups; cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion and is not applicable for Rewards redemption. Advance reservations are required. No refund or credit for unused portion. Void where prohibited. © 2022 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. fact magazine

• THE EDITOR

The Joys of Spring

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“Spring won’t let me stay in this house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again.” Gustav Mahler.

he change in the air means spring has sprung and we’re obsessed with it in this month’s issue. Our cover story is about all things spring, from global traditions to spring cleaning and from gardening to great things to do around the Kingdom in the coming balmy months. And we’ve even added new seasonal

looks in the Fashion Focus to give you an idea of how to dress for the current gorgeous weather. In Island Rides, we got behind the wheel of the latest BMW and were happily impressed. March also heralds the twice-yearly period for major technology and gadgets releases, so we’re showcasing some of the best in our extended Plugged In section. Since we’re speaking of trying things out, we’ve been out and about at three different restaurants, sorry don’t be envious. We also spoke to one of the city’s favourite chefs. Check out what he had to say about the local dining scene. As for me, I took a trip over to the new Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain to see what all the fuss is about. Elsewhere you’ll find news from the worlds of entertainment, beauty and what’s happening around Kingdom – and there’s a lot. Welcome to spring everyone.

FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • MARCH 2022 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 06

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL (rami@fact-magazine.com) EDITOR LIZ O’REILLY (editorial@fact-magazine.com) DIGITAL EDITORS SARA WADDAH TANUSHREE MATHUR SALES MANAGER MERIEM SAMOUL ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN GRAPHIC DESIGNER MAI GHAZI PHOTOGRAPHY HONEY SHARMA SACHAN CHANDRAN CONTRIBUTORS AMAL SARHAN CECILIA LERMEN FERNANDA LANGHAMMER GARETH WOODS LAYAL EL MAHMOOD PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@fact-magazine.com PRINTED BY UNION PRESS

Liz O’Reilly Editor editorial@fact-magazine.com

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All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 24 Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

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Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings, and everything we’re getting up to in preparation for the monthly magazine – all for our readers, of course!

“

“What I need is the dandelion in the spring. The bright yellow that means rebirth instead of destruction. The promise that life can go on, no matter how bad our losses. That it can be good again.” – from Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 85,400 reads of the February issue If you need your FACT fix circa now, flick through our issues online on issuu.com for all the best features, interviews, profiles, and listings across food, art, culture, travel, technology, and more in Bahrain.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • SPRING INTO SPRING P26 •

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• FACT FINDS

FROM SPAIN TO BAHRAIN Spanish pop-up restaurant Vivir is back at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, with a new chef to showcase traditional Spanish cuisine.

ivir has previously proved one of the most popular pop-ups at the Nikmati beachfront venue, which highlights various speciality cuisines for periods throughout the year. The exciting addition brings back the taste of Spain to the delight of foodie fans. Vivir, meaning ‘to live’, first opened in March 2021 with the objective of providing guests the opportunity to experience different cultures and tastes through a gastronomic journey without ever leaving the island. This year, as the world slowly comes back to life, the outlet will continue to impress with a sumptuous selection of tapas, paellas and more, along with a generous selection of beverages from the bodega. Vivir will be spearheaded by native Venezuelan, Carolina Cuellar, who moved to Mallorca, Spain, at the age of 12. She is an exceptionally passionate chef who discovered her culinary curiosity as a young child and graduated from the Hotel Management School of the Balearic Islands to complete her training as a chef. Carolina gained her first working experience in the gourmet restaurant Nerua at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, which has been awarded a Michelin star. This was followed by the restaurant Jauregibarria Jatetxea, serving traditional Basque cuisine, and the elegant restaurant Mugaritz which has two Michelin stars under the leadership of multi-award-winning chef Andoni Aduriz. Carolina is currently working as a chef in one of the luxury Marriott

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properties in Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands and is visiting Bahrain to be an integral part of the reopening of Vivir. “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to showcase the rich culinary heritage of Spain in the beautiful island of Bahrain through a symphony of flavours and textures at Vivir,” says Carolina. Vivir’s special menu takes inspiration from Spanish history and features signature tapas such as Pulpo a la Gallega, comprised of octopus with potatoes, saffron, sweet paprika and olive oil; and Croquetas – shrimp and sea bass croquettes with aioli sauce. The authentic chef’s special, Paella Valenciana, is one of the bestknown dishes in Spanish cuisine and is made of a Spanish rice called Bomba, with chicken, shrimps and vegetables, while Crema Catalana Quemada is the perfect ending to a beautiful meal. Located by the marina with the sparkling Arabian Gulf as a backdrop, Vivir’s interior design celebrates the most famous late medieval castle in Europe, the Alhambra Palace, with images of water and shade to complement the garden setting. Vivir pop-up will run until March 31, open daily except Mondays, 6pm to 11pm. ✤

GO: CALL 1758 6499 OR 1758 0000 OR VISIT HTTPS://WWW. RITZCARLTON.COM/BAHRAIN FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• LISTEN UP

AN ITALIAN ADVENTURE BEGINS The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa is excited to announce the reopening of the country’s beloved Italian restaurant – La Pergola. La Pergola first opened at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa in the year 1985, offering a composition of Italian dishes from across the country, combined with innovation and tradition, complementing the outlet's contemporary elegance. The restaurant’s menu is prepared with the highest quality ingredients, a number of which are produced daily inhouse, retaining their freshness. Every hand-rolled pasta, kneaded dough and unique sauce is a product of talent, dedication, and love. An excellent choice of fresh pasta and pizza dishes guarantees that La Pergola retains its status as one of Bahrain’s best Italian hot spots in town. The restaurant officially opened its doors to the public, after a lengthy pandemic-led closure, on February 15, with Chef Massimo and his dedicated team on a path to greater culinary heights. Born in Versilia, Tuscany, Chef Massimo is well known for both traditional and homely cooking styles. Gaining his love for the Italian culinary arts from his grandmother, he set out on a journey to recreate the beloved dishes he learnt from his childhood. London, France, Lebanon, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia and now Bahrain are all witnesses to his amazing gastronomic creations. The Gulf Hotel’s philosophy remains the same since its opening in the 1960s, although it has changed beyond 12

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recognition, continually expanding and upgrading to meet modern day demands. The Hotel features 17 spacious and elegantly designed family rooms, 23 luxurious standard rooms, 17 well-equipped compact rooms and 24 state-ofthe-art sleeping pods. ✤

GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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L'APPÉTIT VIENT EN MANGEANT Renowned French Boutique and Café Ladurée will open its first branch in the Kingdom at Al Liwan. Seef Properties recently announced that it has signed a lease agreement to establish the famous French Boutique and Café Ladurée at Al Liwan. Ahmed Yusuf, CEO of parent company Seef Properties, confirmed the company’s continuing efforts to attract many international investments and its keenness to constantly add new options in terms of commercial and tourist facilities. The famous French Boutique and Café Ladurée will certainly be a remarkable addition to the group of stores in the area and will provide an exceptional experience for visitors and residents in Al Liwan. Louis Ernest Ladurée first opened his shop in Paris in 1862 as a bakery and it soon became a popular spot for Parisians. The venue developed over the decades and became a pastry shop and café. The café started to attract high society and became, along with others, the centre of entertainment in the city. Ladurée’s wife, Jeanne Souchard, came up with the idea of transforming the shop and café into a tea room as well. The move made the venue one of the first tea rooms in town and was partly 14

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responsible for the rise of Parisian tea rooms. Famous now for its macarons, it first conceptualised this petite little treat in 1930 with the help of Pierre Desfontaines, Ladurée’s grandson, who thought of taking two macaron shells and pasting them together with some creamy ganache filling. Ladurée began its global journey of success in 2005 with the opening of the London branch as the first outside France, after which the journey of expansion progressed in various regions and countries across the globe, including Japan, New York, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Cannes, Sao Paulo, Saint-Tropez, Miami, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and many other impressive international destinations. The opening date has not yet been announced but Boutique and Café Ladurée is expected to make its Bahrain debut before too long. We can’t wait. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.LADUREE.FR FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

INDULGE YOURSELVES Sofitel Bahrain invites you to enjoy the hotel’s many offers this season. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is a paradise which allows its guests to escape their routine. The immaculate resort features 28 suites, 21 Prestige suites, six charming rooftop Opera suites and a majestic Royal suite, available for guests to live their most luxurious experience. The resort, located in Zallaq, offers the most beautiful sea view, and houses the Middle East’s only Thalassotherapy institute with its unique forms of treatments using natural ointments and seawater. Throughout March, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is filled with promotions that will gastronomically impress you. On Thursdays, you can start your weekend by discovering a reimagined gastronomic concept with Sofitel Bahrain’s Le Garden Brunch du Soir and experience a delightful brunch affair full of savoury international dishes for everyone to enjoy under the starry skies of Zallaq, next to the hotel’s green spaces, starting at BD30 net. At BD36 net, Sofitel Bahrain’s award-winning Friday Brunch will not let your taste buds down. Filled to the brim with bottomless drinks as well as fantastic food and entertainment, you, your family and friends will be talking about it for the week ahead! From March 10 to 20, take a special culinary trip to southern Italy and unlock the country’s unique flavours at the award winning five-star restaurant, Fiamma. Enjoy a specially prepared Italian feast on the beautifully lit outdoor terrace with a live opera performance to add extra flair to your experience. Every Saturday, discover the decadent array of dishes as we take your palate through an unforgettable gastronomic journey in the vibrant street markets of India. Relish the rich authentic flavours of exotic biryanis and kebabs at the Desi Junction Brunch courtesy of Chef Sheikh Mursalim and his remarkable team. On March 19, brunch like a maharaja in a festival of colour in the lavishly royal five-star Indian restaurant, Rivaaj, and 16

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enjoy spectacular colourful celebrations as they usher in a carnivalesque mood with authentic Indian traditional gastronomy. Awaken your senses and bond with your loved ones over a spread of delicious Indian fare from an exciting new menu or live cooking stations, accompanied by live entertainment of sitar and tabla. Head over to Sofitel Bahrain as they launch their newest line up of dishes with their new e-menu boasting exclusive creations by Maison Sushi’s newly appointed Chef de Cuisine, Chef Morris. Explore Maison Sushi for an exemplary new dining venture, with French savoir-faire, to offer an inimitably delicious gastronomic adventure. To ensure their guests a safe and enjoyable experience, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa has implemented Accor’s ALL SAFE programme, which was created in tandem with hygiene solutions specialist Bureau Veritas. ✤

GO: CALL 3888 5769 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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• LISTEN UP

SPRING OF CULTURE 2022 For the 16th consecutive year, the Spring of Culture Festival returns with a full calendar of events and activities, catering to a multitude of tastes and interests and highlighting Bahrain as a prime cultural hub. We’ve rounded up some of the best events for the month of March to make sure you have a blast. Event: Visual Memoirs: Between Figuration & Abstraction – Solo Exhibition by artist Rashid Al Araifi Date: March 1 to 29 Time: 9am to 8pm Venue: The Art Centre In recognition of winning second place at the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition in 2020, a solo exhibition hosting artist Rashed al Araifi will be held at The Art Centre. Visual Memoirs is a body of work that acts as a visual response to the urban behaviour, social practices and cultural customs in the kingdom of bahrain. Ticket Details: Free Event: Hussain al Jassmi Date: March 4 Time: 8.30 pm Venue: Al Dana Amphitheatre Spring of Culture inaugurates a premier event at the stateof-the-art Al Dana Amphitheatre, the famed singer Hussain al Jassmi ignites the evening with his greatest hits! Ticket Details: Tickets sold at www.aldana.com.bh 18

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Event: Omar Kamal Date: March 10 Time: 8pm Venue: Bahrain National Theatre The stunning Palestinian singer Omar Kamal returns to Bahrain. Following the success of the 2017/18 tour of his debut album Serenade, the smooth-voiced star presents his new album Show Me The Light. He brings together delightful, multilingual repertoires that include songs from Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson to Arabic greats such as Mohammed Abdel Wahab and Fairouz. Ticket Details: Prices range from BD22 to BD38.5, sold at Virgin Megastore and at virginmegastore.me Event: The Wind In The Willows Date: March 11 to 14 Time: March 11: 5pm, March 12: 11.30am and 6pm, March 13 & 14: matinee shows Venue: The Cultural Hall The Wind In The Willows is a British classic and childhood favourite! This hit theatre show from London’s West End is a new adaptation that features beautiful puppetry, catchy and uplifting live music and, of course, some of the UK’s finest actors. It’s a fun and engaging show, perfect for all family members. Ticket Details: Tickets sold at Al Osra Supermarket Event: Aga Khan Master Musicians Concert Date: March 19 Time: 8pm Venue: The Cultural Hall In collaboration with the Aga Khan Music Programme, this concert will feature the six leading musicians of the Aga Khan Master Musicians, who will take the audience on a musical journey inspired by their own deep roots in the cultures of the Middle East and Mediterranean basin, South Asia, Central Asia and China. Ticket Details: Free

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

FRIDAY BRUNCH AT BAHARAT Every Friday from 12:30PM to 4:00PM BHD 28 net inclusive of soft beverages BHD 38 net inclusive of selected beverages For more information or to make a reservation, please WhatsApp +973 3320 4175. All prices quoted are in Bahraini Dinar and are inclusive of 10% VAT, 5% government levy and 10% service charge.

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• LISTEN UP

Event: Launch Of The Hanging Sculpture – By Artist Khalid Farhan Date: March 21 Time: 7pm Venue: Near Al-Nukhidhah House - Muharraq Created by artist Khalid Farhan, this contemporary hanging sculpture in the shape of a red flower caps the series of sculptures created to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the founding of the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre. The location of this awe-inspiring piece of art, which will be hung across from the centre’s hall near the Al-Nukhidhah House, reflects a connection between modern structures and those associated with the deep-rooted traditions of pearling which echo throughout numerous alleyways of old Muharraq. Ticket Details: Free Event: Ameera Selim Concert Date: March 21 Time: 8pm Venue: Sh. Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Centre For Culture & Research Ameera Selim is an Egyptian soprano opera singer who resides in France. She graduated from the Cairo Conservatory with a Concertist Diploma in 2004. She started her career as a member and soloist in the Cairo Opera. In 2002, she earned the top prize at the International Orvieto Competition in Italy. Ticket Details: Free Event: Raya & Sakina Date: March 24 & 25 Time: 8pm Venue: The Cultural Hall In collaboration with the Embassy of The Arab Republic of Egypt in Bahrain, this contemporary performance of dance and theatre showcases two popular figures across Egypt and the Arab world. Raya and Sakina are two personalities that have roused contradictory opinions as some consider them thugs whereas others consider them heroines in the face of colonialism. This production highlights another perspective 20

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of these characters through psychological analysis of the two personalities as well as research on the economic and cultural conditions of the time, reflecting the intertwining interferences and struggles of the human psyche in the form of modern dance. Ticket Details: Free Event: Philharmonia Orchestra Date: March 25 Time: 8pm Venue: Bahrain National Theatre In its Bahrain debut, the Philharmonia Orchestra from the UK will charm all classical musical lovers from the stage of the Bahrain National Theatre with a selection of timeless masterpieces by Jean Sibelius, Ralph Vaughan Williams and Ludwig van Beethoven. The concert is led by the Finnish Maestro Jukka-Pekka Saraste, in addition to the Bahraini Maestro Major General Dr. Mubarak Najem, who is participating in the orchestra with two musical pieces. Event: Manama Mon Amour – By Richard Clayderman & Zade Dirani With The Bahrain Music Band Date: March 31 Time: 8pm Venue: Bahrain National Theatre An enchanting concert that brings two of the world’s most celebrated pianists To Manama, Richard Clayderman and Zade Dirani, accompanied by the Bahrain Music Band on the stage of The Bahrain National Theatre. Manama Mon Amour features Ballade Pour Adeline, Mariage D’amour, Zaina and Haya, in addition to modern interpretations of Arabic hits by Abdel Halim Hafez, Dalida and Majida El Roum. Ticket Details: Prices range from BD22 to BD38.5, sold at Virgin Megastore and at virginmegastore.me ✤

GO: PLEASE CHECK WITH ORGANISERS FOR AGE RESTRICTIONS.

‘The essence of Mediterranean cuisine”

Meet Chef BegoÑa Rodrigo, Spain’s first Top Chef winner, who will be delighting us with her passion for Mediterranean fusion cuisine at WU Restaurant from March 23 – 26

To book your cooking class on March 26, contact 16000111 in partnership with fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

A NEW MILESTONE The Swiss luxury watchmaker, Breitling, has opened its new industrial-chic boutiqu in City Centre Bahrain. The official opening and ribbon cutting of the new shop was made by Aed Adwan, Managing Director Breitling Middle East and representatives from Breitling’s local retail partner, Yaquby Distribution. Located on the first floor of the mall and holding a space of 65 sq/m, the new boutique is Breitling’s latest retail space to feature the brand’s unique design concept – a contemporary urban interpretation of an industrial loft, inspired by a mid20th century industrial building - as a nod to a time when the brand’s timepieces and intelligent measuring tools earned Breitling a formidable reputation. Unique artefacts such as aircraft propellers and bespoke furniture vividly bring to life the brand worlds of ‘land, sea and air’. Commenting on the opening, Aed said: “The launch of Breitling’s new concept boutique in Bahrain is the first of many to be opened in the region this year, indicating the importance of the Middle East market to Breitling. We are confident our customers will enjoy being welcomed into the uniquely designed environment which allows them to explore the brand’s heritage and discover our new watch collections in a sophisticated but relaxed setting.” Asif Jiffry, General Manager Yaquby Distribution, added: “Yaquby and Breitling have been successful partners for over 30 years, the new boutique marks a milestone for our relationship. We are thrilled to be a part of the exciting launch 22

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of the brand’s new boutique concept, the first within Bahrain.” The new boutique is home to the entire Breitling collection, including the brand-new Super Avi collection. Launched in November 2021, the Super AVI is a celebration of aviation history with designs inspired by the original 1953 “Co-Pilot” Ref. 765 AVI aviator’s watch, and four legendary planes: the North American Aviation P-51 Mustang, the Vought F4U Corsair, the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, and the de Havilland Mosquito. Since 1884, the renowned Swiss watchmaker has established itself a global reputation for high-precision timepieces, its pioneering role in the development of the wrist chronograph, and its dedicated commitment to design excellence. With the brand’s association with aviation, Breitling has shared the finest moments in humankind’s conquest of the skies. Renowned for its spirit of innovation, it has also earned a place of privilege in the worlds of science, sport, and technology. Breitling manufactures its own movements in-house and the quality of every watch is confirmed by its status as a COSC-certified chronometer, made in Switzerland. ✤

GO: CALL 1717 1800 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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Ghabga Daily: 10:00pm to 2:00am Silk's Terrace Tent & Garden BHD 8+++ Salad & Soup Buffet BHD 8+++ Desserts Buffet BHD 13+++ Salads, Soups & Desserts Main Course on a la carte basis Special Rates for Groups of 15 Pax and more. Spend BHD 40 during Iftar or Ghabga & get a chance to spin the Wheel of Fortune to win one of our amazing prizes! Prices are subject to 10% service charge, 5% government levy, and 10% VAT.

For reservations: +973 1746 0017 +973 3364 0032

movenpick.com/bahrain fact magazine 23

• LISTEN UP

OFF TO THE RACES A ‘New Era’ of F1 is set to begin in the Kingdom this month, with the much-awaited Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix promising a weekend of unbelievable fun. The upcoming race is said to be a once-in-a-generation event in the world of motorsports with a record-breaking 23-race season and an incredible line-up of events and attractions on and off the track. Taking place from March 18 to 20 at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir, Formula 2 and 3, as well as the Porsche Sprint Cup Middle East, the most competitive one-make motor racing series in the region, are also on the ticket. Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Chief Executive of the BIC, unveiling the new 2022 F1 car, remarked that: “Our 2022 race is a landmark moment for the sport. Fittingly being held under our slogan ‘A New Era’, the race will usher in the next chapter of F1 following, perhaps, the biggest revolution of rules in the history of the sport.” The new era of Formula 1 sees a wealth of amended regulations on the power unit and tyres, which designers have adapted to meet, resulting in new aerodynamics and an upgraded performance. Grammy Award-winning producer, songwriter and DJ, Afrojack, is set to stage a spectacular concert over the Grand Prix weekend, accessible for all ticketholders. The Dutch-born musician will be lighting up the stage at the F1 Village vending area on the Friday evening. He will be followed on Saturday night by fellow DJ, producer and songwriter, Don Diablo. As a founding father of the Future House movement, the Dutch artist is widely considered a 24

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pioneer in dance music. His latest album, Future, is highly acclaimed for its innovative beats. Amongst the other acts are Abraham Thill, a street and circus performer, Aras Stilt Band, a percussionist band on stilts, the Funky Style Band, a marching band from Italy, and the Jam Batucada musical show from Spain. Fans attending the spectacular will be able to enjoy a 42-metre-high Ferris Wheel, offering a great view of surrounding Sakhir, or feel the adrenaline rush of the carousel-like Ghost Rider speed ride. BIC will be hosting a F1 pre-season testing from March 10 to 12, a crucial opportunity for F1’s teams and drivers to evaluate the performance of their new cars. This event will be open to spectators, offering an early preview of the 2022 cars. Tickets to this year’s Bahrain Grand Prix are currently available, with children aged three to 12 given a 50% discount, students aged 13 to 17, senior citizens and those with special needs can take advantage of a 25% discount, and university students get 10% off. ✤

GO: CALL 1745 0000 OR VISIT WWW.BAHRAINGP.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BUY TICKETS.

The Best of Asia Live Entertainment Friday 12PM-4PM Unlimited selected beverages

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SPRING INTO SPRING Spring is almost here. The hours of light are growing apace and we can already see flowers blossoming around us. The sky is even bluer and the air conditioners are getting their routine service before it gets really hot. This is a season of rebirth. A time for change or to re-blossom. Spring is all about good light — everything gets brighter and that calls for you to let go of the dull moments of the past few months and focus on positivity and light. It’s the season that generally makes everyone feel more motivated like experiencing a ‘fresh start’. We’ve looked at special ways to welcome spring around the world. We’ve also got tips on making space for the new season by decluttering your home and going green with seasonal planting. And, of course, we couldn’t forget a round-up of round-up of great ways to enjoy spring around the island..

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• COVER STORY

Spring Fever Around The World

MARZANNA IN POLAND The polish version of Sechseläuten, Marzanna is a celebration of the coming of spring but instead of fire, they use water. Poles gather to make a doll of straw called Marzanna, the Goddess of Winter, Plague and Death, which they carry in a parade and then drown in a river. SPRING EQUINOX IN MEXICO Every year, around March 20, in the town of Teotihuacán, a preHispanic archaeological site, people wearing white with red scarves gather in celebration of the coming season, with many climbing up 360 steps to the apex of the Pyramid of the Sun, the largest structure in the area, outstretching their arms to gather the energy from the ball of fire in the sky.

The coming of spring means many different things to various people around the world, as countries celebrate the beginning of this fruitful season with interesting traditions and festivities. Here are just a few of them. HOLI IN INDIA Holi is a major spring-time festival in India with people dancing on the streets in showers of paint and dye. Known as the Festival of Colours and celebrated during the first moon of March, the festival marks the beginning of spring and the end of winter, with Indians promising to remember the good in life and leave the bad behind. HANAMI IN JAPAN Hanami, or the famous Cherry Blossom Festival, is one of the most well-known seasonal events in the world. The traditional celebration is held to welcome the start of spring and appreciate the beauty of the Sakura flower, or the cherry blossom, known as the flower of spring. To celebrate, the people of Japan gather to feast under the wonderous pink trees, with picnics and parties scattering the parks. The trees are lit at night in a romantic festivity called Yozakura. CIMBURIJADA IN BOSNIA Cimburijada, or the festival of scrambled eggs, is celebrated on the first day of spring in the Bosnian town of Zeneca, either on the banks of the Bosna River or at the city park. The celebration begins with a traditional breakfast of a super-sized bowl of eggs for everyone. It is said that eggs were chosen as they symbolise a new life and a new beginning. SECHSELÄUTEN IN SWITZERLAND This celebration might seem more extreme than most. With the onset of spring and the end of winter, people in Switzerland celebrate with the burning of an effigy of a giant snowman called Böögg, made with old clothes and fireworks. They believe that the faster the snowman burns, the warmer the coming summer will be. The event, which lasts two days, includes a host of other activities, including parades and banquets as well as comedy. 28

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BABA MARTA DAY IN BULGARIA Baba Marta Day, or Grandma March Day, is a famous celebration in Bulgaria commemorating the beginning of the spring season. Bulgarian folklore suggests that ‘Grandma March’ was a grumpy old woman who always scowled at her two brothers. When she did smile, however, it is said that the sun began to appear above the horizon. Bulgarians today wear a petite white and red yarn accessory called a Martenitsa to mark their wish for good health and their happiness at the coming of the spring. They wear these adornments until the end of the month, after which they tie them mainly to fruit trees for good fortune.

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• COVER STORY

THE NEAT BEAT The days are getting longer and warmer, and spring cleaning is calling. We absolutely agree that throughout the year we tidy and spruce up certain areas of our homes, but there’s nothing quite like a spring decluttering — a deep clean after winter. This goes beyond just vacuuming and mopping and actually feels more like letting go. Letting go of items in your closet that you’ve never worn; spotting expired spices and seasonings in the kitchen pantry; changing bed linens; and the introduction of a couple of bins and baskets for better organisation. It feels a little daunting, but the key is to take one step at a time. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed it's due to a lack of proper organisation and storage, but we have you covered. We have a couple of tips for you to kick-start the process. Before we get into it, just remember it’s not about extra cabinets or closets for storage that can make your home look clean, as perfect as a Pinterest photo, it’s just sometimes you need to be better at prioritising certain elements and decluttering. And this is our promise, a decluttered home won’t only look better, but will reduce your stress levels and make you feel better.

valued anymore in three categories: discard, organise or store. The key is to be strong enough to discard whatever you think you don’t need anymore. This will make your decluttering process way easier. Allot time to each room and task — say two hours for your room, or 30 minutes for wardrobe classification. Find a way to donate anything you don’t need before recycling it.

ONE STEP AT A TIME Don’t try to get it all done in a one go. Divide and conquer. First, take everything out of the drawers and off the shelves and surfaces. Then categorise what you truly value before putting everything back. You can classify the items not so cherished or

STORAGE SOLUTIONS Once you know how many things are going to stay — you’ll be able to acquire storage solutions that truly fit your needs. Don’t buy bins, baskets, racks and hooks before that. There are custom storage solutions for almost everything, explore your options.

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• COVER STORY ALL THOSE LINENS The moment you enter a bedroom, the first thing you look at is the bedsheet and comforter. As spring is here, change your throw pillow covers and give your room a low-cost freshen up. If you have pillows that have gotten lumpy, it’s time to replace them. And, because winter throw blankets are too heavy for the spring — it’s time to put them away, perhaps covered and stored under the bed. KICK OUT KITCHEN MESS Thoroughly decluttering the kitchen is one of the best ideas since it is the most used space in the house. Keep the countertops clear and organise drawers one at a time. Check your stock of spices to see what needs to be trashed, replaced or has many duplicates. Look for the serving platters and dishes you’ve never used and replace them with the ones you’ve been using year-round. Next: remove anything chipped and any stained and mismatched plastic food storage containers. This is a good way to start! MAKE A PHOTO FILE After cleaning thoroughly and classifying your things — record a video or take photos of everything. It’ll give you an easily accessible record of where everything goes. Of course, you can’t photograph and see every single item — but it’ll be useful to give you a general flow of where everything goes and where and how to keep things for the long run.

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• COVER STORY lilies the best thing is they’re scented and if placed by the front door will make your exit and entry from home so much sweeter. However, if you have pets, make sure to choose non-toxic plants and make sure all containers provide adequate drainage. GET YOUR HANDS ON HERBS Edible herbs are the easiest to grow and require little effort. On the top of that, many of them smell pretty amazing. If their pots/ containers are placed in the window of your kitchen they’ll scent the entire space so well. We recommend you start with leafy herbs like basil, mint, parsley and cilantro, which are extremely good to grow in containers, both indoor and outdoor. The best thing about them is that they do not require tons of soil and their growth rate is pretty high — so you can pick and eat them regularly and it’ll encourage your gardening habit. OUTDOOR SEEDING You can start many seeds (lettuce, spinach, peas and carrots) outside or in your rooftop garden just about now. Prepare your soil by removing any weeds and topping it off with some fresh organic compost. You can get the seeds from any nursery nearby and plant them according to the instructions on the packet. Use a ruler to get it right and water everything thoroughly after planting. Keep soil moist. The most important thing is to visit them regularly, checking to see if they need water, weeding or anything else.

OH, HOW GREEN! Al fresco dining has been fun for the past few months and during that time of outdoor dining, what we really enjoyed was interacting with the greenery, plants and garden veggies. If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to begin prepping your summer garden and, with the right tools, and supplies you can have access to latent green fingers this spring, irrespective of whether you have access to a private garden or not. Let’s also be honest that you cannot call it an artistic, unique and well-appointed home without some breathing, growing trimmings. Plants. Gardening doesn’t offer instant fulfillment but it’s well worth the effort and the wait that follow. Here are a few tips for you. SPACE AND SPOT We understand that finding outdoor space might be hard but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy fresh air, veggies or herbs perhaps. As long as you have good potting mix, you can grow small herbs in pretty much anything — even a tin but just remember to place it at a spot where it can get some natural sunlight off and on. Old ceramic vases and bowls can be a really good start to plant in as well. But as a general rule, always remember to opt for one bigger size of the container than you think you will need for any plant. If you have a planter large enough, it’ll give the plant space to grow properly and establish its unfurling beautiful leaves more effortlessly. Plant some lilies, since they’re perfect for containers, or dahlias and chrysanthemums can be good choices too. For 34

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• COVER STORY

The Joy of Spring We love this time of year, there are so many fun activities for you, your friends and family to enjoy as we spring into spring.

Heritage Village – for anyone seeking a bit of adventure and history, head to this little village in Asker to learn more about Bahraini traditions and the old way of life. GO: Call 6634 6344 for more information. Picnic in Sakhir – as the season turns warmer again, why not head out with the family to the dessert for a day out? Don’t forget to pack some tea, snacks and light lunches. Old Muharraq Village Tour – take a tour of one of the oldest villages in Bahrain with KA Tours as you soak up the history of the island. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3458 2678 for more information. Bahrain National Museum – this national landmark is always good to visit, whatever the season. Head down there with the family and delve into Bahrain’s heritage. GO: Call 1729 8777 for more information. Isa Cultural Centre – for anyone who wants to connect with the literature of the island, head to the Isa Cultural Centre, the national storehouse of Bahraini literature and culture. GO: Call 1736 6666 for more information. Bahrain Fort – arguably the gem of the island, this little paradise and UNESCO World Heritage site is the perfect outing for the family on a spring day and a reminder of Bahrain’s rich past. GO: Call 1756 7171 for more information.

Beach day at Marassi – head down to the beach for a fun day with the waves as well as a bit of cycling and a relaxing afternoon with books or a tournament of chess at The People reading lounge. GO: Call 8009 8888 for more information. Karzakan Forest – a stroll through this rare sanctuary of green which will leave you doubting that you’re in Bahrain. Bahrain Contemporary Art Association – visit this gallery and attend current exhibitions featuring local artists. GO: Call 1772 8046 for more information. Al Fateh Grand Mosque – visit the iconic mosque for a dive into history and Islamic architecture. GO: Call 1772 7773 for more information. Fountain Show – Head down to the Mall of Dilmunia to watch the outdoor fountains dance and feel the cool mist in the air. GO: Call 1330 0266 for more information.

Vertical Garden – head down to Muharraq to witness the Vertical Garden outside the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre. Take some fun photos with the family. GO: Call 1732 2549 for more information. Embroidery Workshop – Check out Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre for an enjoyable afternoon of embroidery for all. GO: Call 1729 9879 for more information. Mosaic Art – head to Mosaic House for a fun day of mosaic. Spend your time at this splendid and calm place and take your completed piece home when you are done. GO: Call 3925 3943 for more information. Bahrain Pearling Trail – this UNESCO World Heritage site is a prized history trail about the old pearl-diving industry in Bahrain. GO: Visit https://pearlingpath.bh/en/visitor-information/ for more information.

Zallaq Springs – spot the flamingos and enjoy a cool mocktail in this little corner of heaven in Bahrain. GO: Call 1721 6303 or 3888 9533 for more information.

Bahrain International Garden Show – for anyone enthusiastic about plants and gardening, head to this annual garden show taking place from March 2 to 5. GO: Call 1717 1620 for more information.

Jaw Resort–this off-the-beaten-path resort is a haven of relaxation for anyone looking to destress and revive. GO: Call 7797 9797 for more information.

Play tennis – head down to the Bahrain Tennis Club for some fun with family or friends. GO: Call 1772 9561 for more information.

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Experience the luxurious cuisine of the Far East at Monsoon For reservations call us on 17749222. monsoonbahrain

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THE 2022 BMW X6 M50I BMW revealed their intent to dominate the mid-sized SUV segment with the unveiling of their new X6 range.

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• ISLAND RIDES

fficially debuting in April 2008, the first-generation BMW X6 was the originator of the Sports Activity Coupé (SAC). The enthusiastic response from the general public led to the production of the X6 M as well as the ActiveHybrid X6 in 2009. The second-generation followed in 2014 and the third in 2020. Now, in 2022, BMW have launched their new third-generation offering, the BMW X6 M50i. This modern model is already attracting plenty of positive attention in the mid-sized luxury crossover SUV segment and, thanks to the amazing team at Euro Motors, FACT Magazine’s team were fortunate enough to get their hands on this new creation. There is no doubt the latest X6 is a real head-turner. This thirdgeneration model has a clean and exclusive look, giving it a confident and commanding presence. The sporty, yet luxurious M50i is a little longer and a little wider than its predecessor, adding to its already muscular stance. The large, single frame BMW kidney grille drew our attention to the front end of the vehicle, where adaptive LED headlights underscore the exclusivity of this SUV. The flanks are defined by a crisply drawn character line running from front to rear, along with the dynamically designed roofline. Burly fenders house 20-inch light-alloy wheels that are fitted as standard, a feature that only enhanced our desire to get this Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) out onto the roads. At the back end, a subtle roof spoiler along with a hatch spoiler hint at the vehicle’s athletic capabilities, whilst the elongated adaptive LED brake lights along with the sport dual-exit exhaust system, add further touches of class to an already outstanding exterior design. Shifting our collective attention to the interior, we were welcomed by a modern and spacious cabin with plenty of sporty flair. As you would expect, BMW have spared no expense in the use of highend materials and quality finishes throughout the vehicle. We found the standard 16-way power front seats for both driver and front passenger to be both supportive and very comfortable. The ergonomically designed cockpit ensures all control elements are within easy reach of the driver with the sport steering wheel itself feeling perfect in hand. Due to the sloping roofline of the X6, tall adults may find the headroom to be a little limited above the rear seating, however, average sized adults and children will find plenty of room on offer. The large panoramic glass sunroof lets in an abundance of natural light, creating a greater sense of space within the M50i. The boot has a capacity of 580-litres, an area that can be increased to 1,530-litres with the rear seats folded flat. Other notable standard internal features include four-zone automatic climate control, thermoelectric cup holders and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon Sound System. Anyone driving the new M50i will be aided by BMW Intelligent Personal Assist. An intelligent digital character responds to the vocal prompt of “Hey BMW” and can explain all manner of different functions, provide up-to-date information as well as generally assist the driver. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional combines a new display and operating concept that boasts a greater level of connectivity. Included in this setup is a high-resolution instrument cluster and a control display, both of which come with 12.3-inch (diagonal) 40

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touchscreens. Along with the impressive iDrive 7.0 operating system, the infotainment setup also includes HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio and compatibility with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Thoroughly impressed by both exterior and interior designs, it was time to focus our attention on performance. The sound of the 4.4-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine brought a smile to all within earshot and we immediately felt the responsive nature of this high-performance machine. The remarkable engine, combined with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, enables the M50i to generate 523hp and 553lb-ft of torque. This allows the SUV to surge from 0-100km/h in just 4.3 seconds and to reach an electronically capped top speed of 250km/h. To tame the abundance of power and acceleration produced by the M50i, BMW have included adaptive sport suspension and upgraded braking systems. These supreme systems, along with launch control and exceptional handling capabilities, make the M50i an absolute joy to drive and we received plenty of admiring looks when we made our way through the busy city streets of Manama. BMW have also made sure to include an extensive range of safety and assistance features. These include Active Cruise Control, Collision and Pedestrian Warning, Steering Assist, Lane Control Assistant, Traffic Jam Assist, rear collision warning, road priority warning, Lane Change Warning, Emergency Stop Assistant, airbags throughout the vehicle and so much more. We can only encourage all those looking to purchase a superior Sports Activity Coupé to book a test drive of their own. ✤

ISLAND RIDES •

“

“This thirdgeneration model has a clean and exclusive look, giving it a confident and commanding presence”

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• ISLAND RIDES

GO: CALL EURO MOTORS 1775 0750 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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STARTING FROM

BD 6,325*

BD 7,700*

*T&C APPLY

17 703 703 MG-BAHRAIN.COM fact magazine

• MOTORING NEWS

A NEW ERA ALFA ROMEO PRESENTS TONALE TO THE MIDDLE EAST, MARKING THE BRAND’S METAMORPHOSIS. Alfa Romeo has introduced the Tonale, highlighting a new era of connectivity and electrification. Two levels of electrification – Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Q4 – have been developed, the 275hp Plug-in Hybrid Q4 version with all-wheel drive being the most powerful and efficient. In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology, with Alfa Romeo being the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. With the customer’s consent, the NFT records vehicle data, generating a certificate that can be used as a guarantee of the car’s proper maintenance, with a positive impact on its residual value. The major new interior features in the Tonale include a threespoke sports steering wheel, the cluster in the ‘telescopic’ instrument panel, built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant features and the all-new infotainment system, including a 12.3” screen and the main 10.25” touchscreen unit, featuring a customisable Android operating system and 4G connectivity. Level two autonomous driving is available with new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC), Lane Centring (LC) and Traffic Jam Assist.

For Alfa Romeo, Tonale marks a concrete commitment to sustainable mobility. With two levels of electrification, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid, the Tonale debuts the 160hp Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) engine. The 275hp Plug-in Hybrid Q4 clocks up 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.2 seconds and a range in pure electric mode of up to 80km (over 60 km in the combined cycle). The Alfa Romeo Tonale offers five-hole wheel rims and ‘3+3’ sinecurve headlights developed in conjunction with Marelli with a new full-LED Adaptive Matrix. The new model also boasts a fully independent MacPherson suspension system, with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers with Dual Stage Valve active suspension with electronically controlled damping. ✤ GO: VISIT ALFAROMEO.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

INTO THE WILD

THE 2022 FORD BRONCO RAPTOR SETS THE STAGE AND REACHES NEW HEIGHTS. Built for desert running and boulder crawling, the 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor, the newest member of Built Untamed SUVs, has debuted as the most powerful street-legal Bronco and the first Ultra4 Racing-inspired SUV ever. The Bronco Raptor packs extreme Built Untamed capability and durability with an exclusive twin-turbo, 3.0-litre EcoBoost engine delivering more than 400hp, a Raptor HOSS 4.0 race-ready suspension system, a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, and standard 37-inch all-terrain tyres. At 9.8 inches wider than a base Bronco, the Raptor epitomises extreme Built Untamed design with race-inspired features inside and out. An advanced 4x4 system includes a higher-capacity clutch, designed to withstand the demands of high-performance desert events, enhanced by the High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system. For higher-speed desert capabilities or crawling over rocks, the compacted graphite iron-block engine is paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, allowing drivers to alter the sound with four exhaust modes: Normal, Sport, Quiet and Baja. Exterior colors include Hot Pepper Red Metallic, Velocity Blue Metallic, Eruption Green Metallic, Shadow Black, Iconic Silver Metallic, Area 51, Cactus Gray, Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat, Oxford White, plus Ford Performance-exclusive Code Orange paint. Base Bronco Raptor models are equipped with Black Onyx 44

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marine-grade vinyl seats. The dark interior is accented with Ford Performance Code Orange splashes, with touchpoints wearing low-gloss carbon fiber accents. Upgraded features include laser-perforated Black Onyx Neo suede seats, vinyl-wrapped instrument panel topper, leatherwrapped outer seat bolsters, and a thicker steering wheel with magnesium paddle shifters and gloss black Raptor logo centre. Seats are designed with aggressive foam side bolsters to help keep passengers firmly seated over rugged terrain. Bronco Raptor comes standard with a High Package that includes SYNC4 with 12-inch touchscreen, information on-demand panel, enhanced voice recognition, and a 360-degree exterior camera with the Lux Package offering a 10-speaker B&O audio system.✤ GO: VISIT ME.FORD.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

For the love of meat This is the mantra that has guided Günaydın, from our humble beginnings in 1965, as a small artisan butcher shop in Instanbul’s historic ‘Bostanci’ district to Turkey’s leading Steak and Kebab House today! Passionate about the highest-grade, exclusive meat cuts, secret recipes and cooking techniques of Turkish Masters. Designed for Meat Lovers the world over. Visit our all-Turkish kitchen and opulent dining rooms. Everyday from 12pm till late. Bookings essential.

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• MOTORING NEWS

WHEN DESIGN MEETS PERFORMANCE The all-new Lexus LX 600 brings the highest levels of luxury and performance to Bahrain.

Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, the exclusive distributor of Lexus vehicles in Bahrain, has announced the launch of the all-new Lexus LX 600, combining modern design, superb performance and new powertrains to deliver an unsurpassed luxury SUV experience. The Lexus LX hit the streets in 1996 and has since become the marque’s flagship SUV due to its high build-quality, ride comfort and driving performance, achieved by refining the LX’s founding concepts – reliability, durability and off-road driving performance. The new LX has a robust yet lightweight new Global Architecture GA-F platform with a highly durable lightweight body, reducing the weight by around 200kg to create greater ride comfort, handling stability and fuel efficiency without compromising on strength or safety. The Lexus Driving Signature ensures a constant sense of control and vehicle response. An Electric Power Steering system, adopted for the first time with Electronically Controlled Braking, guarantees optimum performance. The all-new LX comes with a newly developed V6 twin-turbo, 3.5-litre petrol engine that achieves class-leading performance, surpassing that of a conventional V8, producing 409hp and up to 650nm, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The exterior features a new interpretation of the signature Lexus grille, a new one-piece, top-hinged back door and upgraded rear light and Lexus emblem, with a driver-focused interior, more passenger space, and an updated Tazuna cockpit. The cabin features dual-centre displays, which include an upper 12.3-inch Multimedia touchscreen display, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a lower 7-inch display for 46

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navigation, audio, and climate controls. It features a 10-inch headup colour display, an 8-inch colour Multi-information Display (MID), wireless charging for smartphones, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. Drivers can feel safe thanks to the Lexus Safety System+, which includes an updated Pre-Collision System (PCS), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Emergency Steering Assist (ESA), and Intersection Turning Assistance (ITA). The 2022 Lexus LX comes in Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Terrane Khaki, Black, Graphite Black, and a newly available Manganese Lustre. Interior colour options include white and dark sepia, hazel and crimson, and classic black. The vehicle has been made available for the first time in its new VIP grade, which includes two large, heated rear seats with ventilation and massage functions, a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system with an 11.6-inch, anti-reflective screen and built-in ottoman support for the lower legs and calves. The all-new LX is also available in an F Sport grade, available with a distinctive black ‘F’ mesh-pattern grille trimmed in satin chrome, and 22-inch forged Black Premium Metallic alloy wheels. Driving performance is enhanced by a rear TorsenTM, ensuring vehicle stability during acceleration, high-speed driving and cornering. Owners can choose from a range of six exterior colours including one exclusive to the LX F Sport model, namely White Nova GF. The interior is available in Flare Red and black variants. ✤ GO: CALL 1773 7773 OR VISIT LEXUS.COM.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION.

The Making of a Modern Asian Island

Reservations: +973 1700 7770

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THE PERFECT COMPANION Sony is introducing a new way to enjoy your favourite music with the brand-new, truly wireless LinkBuds, coming to the Middle East in April.

inkBuds have been created with a unique open ring driver unit, which allows you to clearly hear exterior sound while on a call or listening to music, making the LinkBuds the perfect companion. You can make calls without noise due to precise voice pickup technology. Sony’s noise reduction algorithm was developed using over 500 million voice samples. Sony’s Integrated Processor V1 reproduces all the detail in your music with minimal distortion, for a stunningly authentic listening experience. Wide Area Tap allows you to double or triple tap to adjust playback to your liking. With Speak-to-Chat you can automatically pause your music as soon as you speak to someone. Once your conversation is over, your music starts playing automatically. LinkBuds also come with hands-free help so you can get information, connect with friends, and set reminders by activating your preferred assistant. Just say “OK Google” or “Alexa”. LinkBuds support Google’s Fast Pair feature, allowing pairing with Android devices. You can also locate your misplaced headphones. Swift Pair makes it quick and easy to pair your LinkBuds to your Windows 11 or Windows 10 laptop, desktop PC or tablet.

Sony has designed LinkBuds with the environment in mind. These unique earbuds and their charging case are made using recycled plastic materials and plastic-free packaging. Thanks to IPX4 water resistance, the earbuds resist splashes and sweat. You can also enjoy up to 5.5 hours of charge and store an additional 12 hours in the case. A 10-minute charge gives you up to 90 minutes of play time. ✤ GO: VISIT SONY.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE Xiaomi is introducing its brand-new Redmi Note 11 series that makes flagship-level specs more accessible and raises industry standards.

iaomi’s new Redmi Note 11 series includes four devices: Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 11 Pro, Redmi Note 11S and Redmi Note 11, bringing powerful upgrades to camera systems, charging speed and display. Raising up the flagship camera experience, Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, 11 Pro and 11S once again feature 108MP primary sensors, allowing you to capture and share pictures in high resolution with higher dynamic range and colour performance. Additionally, the 2MPdepth camera on Redmi Note 11 Pro, 11S and 11 adds a natural bokeh effect to your portrait shots. The Redmi Note 11 series enhances your screen experience with smoother animations and lag-free transitions, while registering more precise touches. With screen sizes of 6.67 inches and 6.43 inches, the series is equipped with an FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay featuring DCI-P3 wide colour gamut, providing more vibrant colours, while also ensuring screen clarity even in bright daylight. The dual super linear speakers, located at the top and bottom of the phone, offer a complete entertainment experience. Raising up its performance, Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G is powered by Snapdragon 695 offering 5G connectivity and superb performance. Redmi Note 11 Pro and 11S offer advanced octa-core MediaTek Helio 48

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G96 processors. Redmi Note 11 is equipped with Snapdragon 680 to deliver superior performance while conserving power. Additionally, all four devices come with a 5,000mAh large-capacity battery. The 67W turbo charging in Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G and 11 Pro takes just 15 minutes to reach 50% of battery. Redmi Note 11S and 11 feature 33W pro fast charging, allowing you to charge to 100% in an hour. ✤ GO: VISIT MI.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

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REVOLUTIONARY CAMERA EXPERIENCES Create, capture and share your best moments with pro-grade camera features on the latest Galaxy S series.

he new Galaxy S22 and S22+ introduce dynamic cameras and bold, sustainably conscious design. The new Nightography lets in more light, draws out details and captures colours that make your content pop, even in the dark. Both devices are built with a powerful 50MP main camera, 10MP tele-lens, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and VDIS technology, ensuring high-quality shots. The 4nm processor delivers unrivalled performance, with robust all-day battery and 25W fast charging for Galaxy S22, and 45W charging for Galaxy S22+. Both devices come equipped with a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Galaxy S22 flaunting a 6.1-inch display and Galaxy S22+ offering 6.6-inches, each built with intelligent Vision Booster technology, automatically adjusting the display to the lighting around you and enhancing the colour contrast. Both Galaxy S22 and S22+ feature the fan-favorite Contour-Cut design that blends the camera seamlessly into the housing. Built with Armor Aluminum and designed to create a sleeker and more refined look, both devices feature a distinctive flat display, complete with a luxurious glass and haze finish. The devices are available in Phantom Black, Phantom White, Green, and Pink Gold. The Galaxy S series also makes it easy to make your phone your own. You can use Samsung’s clean and intuitive new One

UI user interface to customise the look and feel of your home screen and widget. The Knox Vault security platform includes a secure processor and memory that completely isolates sensitive data from the phone’s main operating system to ensure maximum security. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.SAMSUNG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BREAKING THE RULES Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra offers powerful performance and a truly immersive display

amsung has announced its new Galaxy Tab S8 series, which includes the Galaxy Tab S8 and S8+, and the firstever Tab S8 Ultra tablet with the boldest display and powerful performance. Each device offers an improved video conferencing experience with ultra-wide 12MP front cameras, 4K video quality, a three-microphone setup, intelligent auto-framing technology, and Quad Speakers with Dolby Atmos. Enhanced Multi-active Windows and Samsung DeX, safe and easy file sharing with Quick Share, and powerful productivity with the new 4nm processor and an improved S Pen make it the ultimate device, all packed into Armor Aluminum. And, for the first time, Samsung Health is available on Galaxy tablets so you can browse fitness and keep track of your health from your Galaxy Watch on a larger screen. The series is equipped with the fastest processor ever in a Galaxy Tab – a 4nm chip – providing ample RAM and storage. The series is the first Samsung tablet to support Wi-Fi 6E, providing double the bandwidth and maximum speed of Wi-Fi 6. The all-day battery and 45W charging gets you to 100% in 80 minutes. Clip Studio Paint turns your screen into your canvas while Google Duo allows you to co-watch videos with your friends on YouTube, share your browser or use Jamboard. 50

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All Galaxy Tab S8 models allow you to track when your tablet’s camera and microphone are in use and allow you to block all app access to prevent unwanted recording. They are also equipped with the Knox Vault platform. The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra comes in Graphite, and Galaxy Tab S8 and S8+ come in Graphite, Silver and Pink Gold.✤. GO: VISIT WWW.SAMSUNG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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ON THE GO The HUAWEI MateBook E has been launched to ensure smooth hybrid working and higher productivity rates

ybrid working is defined by the freedom for people to choose to work wherever they want. Huawei recently announced the HUAWEI MateBook E, the first Huawei three-screens-inone Windows 11 laptop, featuring the first-ever OLED Real Colour HUAWEI FullView Display. Serving as the ultimate companion to stay productive on the go, it offers the complete experience of PC, tablet and smartphone. With a weight of 709g and a thinness of 7.99mm, it is slim and easy to carry. The display can be detached and used as a tablet, allowing you to use the HUAWEI M-Pencil. The Smartphone Mode gives you full control over your smartphone through the PC. The 12.6-inch OLED Real Colour HUAWEI FullView Display has a screen-to-body ratio of 90%. It supports a peak brightness of 600 nits, P3 wide colour gamut and has a high pro-grade colour accuracy, ensuring the display remains sharp and bright. Furthermore, the device employs hardware-level low blue light technology and is the first Huawei three-screens-in-one laptop to receive the TÜV Rheinland Full-Care Eye Care 2.0 certification. The new laptop can connect wirelessly with compatible smartphones such as the newly launched HUAWEI P50 Pro and with monitors like the HUAWEI MateView, with drag and drop gestures through the innovative Collaborate Mode. Quad

microphones ensure an all-round sound pickup level. Featuring an 11th Generation Intel Core processor and the Intel Iris Xe graphics, the HUAWEI MateBook E supports up to 16GB dual-channel RAM and up to 512GB high-speed solid-state drive for great multi-tasking performance and fulfilling storage needs. The new HUAWEI MateBook E is available in Nebula Gray and includes HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro, HUAWEI CD23 Bluetooth Mouse, HUAWEI Backpack, and HUAWEI Dock 2. ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/BH/

A NEW LEVEL OF SOPHISTICATION Dubbed as the best camera phone with aesthetic design, the HUAWEI P50 Pro is a must-buy this season.

he device has brought cameras to a new level of sophistication. The True-Form Dual-Matrix Camera system on this phone consists of the Main Camera Matrix and SuperZoom Matrix, delivering true-tolife imagery. The HUAWEI XD Optics and HUAWEI XD Fusion Pro image engine, as well as the True-Chroma Image Engine colour filter system and Super HDR technology, result in brighter and clearer high-resolution images. The True-Form Dual-Matrix Camera supports 4K video recording with both the front and rear cameras, with a zoom range of up to 200x. The ultra-wide AF Selfie camera has a 100-degree wide-angle camera, wide enough for large group selfies and breathtaking vistas. The big and powerful camera system is turned into an iconic dual ring design. The front is covered by a 3D curved phone with an unobtrusive single punch hole camera at the top. This display supports HDR and the full P3 colour gamut delivers an unmatched visual experience for videos and games, with a 120Hz high refresh rate and 300Hz touch sampling rate. The HUAWEI P50 Pro packs a 4,360mAh battery, despite its slim body, with 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge and 50W Wireless HUAWEI SuperCharge. EMUI 12 produces an innovative UI with an elegant look. The Device+ tab in the control panel enables users to easily control 52

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or set up multi-device collaboration with other devices, such as the FreeBuds, MatePad and MateBook. The trusted AppGallery is available for users to download a wide range of high-quality apps. The HUAWEI P50 Pro is available in Cocoa Gold and Golden Black ✤. GO: VISIT HTTSP://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/BH/

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• PLUGGED IN

THE TECH ACCESSORY OF THE SEASON HUAWEI’s new FreeBuds Lipstick combines luxury design with cutting-edge technology. We checked it out.

hese days, a pair of earphones is an essential item. Whether for work or for entertainment, these miniature objects allow us to take calls, listen to messages, enjoy music or watch streaming services, anywhere and anytime. HUAWEI have gone a step further by recreating these practical devices into an attractive fashion accessory, specifically designed for women. The new FreeBuds Lipstick boasts a stylish black and gold charging case that has been elegantly designed to take on the appearance of expensive lipstick. The case itself even closes with a satisfying magnetic click. Compact in size and weighing a mere 4.1g, we had no problem fitting this charming accessory into a small handbag. Sound wise, the quality is superb. These FreeBuds feature 14.3mm LCP dynamic drivers and a frequency range of up to 40kHz. All this, combined with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capabilities, along with HUAWEI’s Adaptive Ear-Matching technology, ensured we experienced nothing less than crystal-clear sound. Capable of connecting with multiple devices, including pairing with two separate devices simultaneously, this accessory offered the ultimate ease and comfort. Best of all, they are so comfortable and light we didn’t even feel them sitting in our ears. With wireless and fast charging, we found the battery life to be first-class, receiving four hours of continuous playback on a full

charge, around 22 hours of playback when combined with the fully charged case, and 2.5 hours from just 15 minutes of charging. Our verdict: We love them! ✤ GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/BH/

BREAKING THE MOULD HUAWEI showcase their innovative capabilities with the latest launch.

UAWEI, already known for their impressive array of technological offerings, continue to break conventional norms with their latest smartphone. This month, Fact got to try out HUAWEI’s new P50 Pocket, a novel experience we had to share with you, our readers. Unlike the vast majority of smartphones, the P50 Pocket boasts a bold, all-new hinge design, making it look like a work of art rather than a mobile phone. This nifty gadget, available in both White and Premium Gold, folds seamlessly with ultra-high-strength steel in the hinges to ensure durability. This feature, along with the thin and lightweight design, allowed us to comfortably carry it in our pockets and small handbags. The 6.9-inch display is of exceptionally good quality, thanks to its cinematic aspect ratio as well as its pixel density of 442ppi. Powered by EMUI 12, an 8GB RAM, a 256GB ROM, an improved HUAWEI XD Fusion Pro image engine, and an Ultra Spectrum Image Technology, this device simply beats all. Thanks to the Super Device features of the P50 Pocket, the types of compatible devices include HUAWEI Vision, FreeBuds, MatePad and MateBook. The Distributed File System means the smartphone can function as wirelessly connected external storage for your PC. The camera’s True-Chroma Image Engine, HUAWEI XD Optics 54

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and other advanced camera technologies, ensure crystal clear pictures with high detail. The folding design of this gadget allows users to take full advantage of the rear camera selfie feature. In this way, the best portraits are captured through the flawless retaining of skin textures. The P50 Pocket supports 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge, meaning that not only does the owner receive extensive battery life, but the recharge time is hugely reduced. ✤. GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/BH/

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• PLUGGED IN

APP-LICIOUS What’s on the smartphone agenda for March?

Parent Sense

Aviation Pulse

Creating a healthy baby routine can be hard for a new parent, especially tracking developmental milestones and a newborn’s feeding schedule. Or maybe you need a baby sleep sense tracker to improve the baby’s sleep. The solution is Parent Sense — the all-in-one newborn routine tracker and baby schedule planner that has been developed based on Meg Faure’s bestselling Baby Sense series. The app recommends a daily schedule to track the activities of your newborn baby. This includes, sleep cycle, feeding, baby growth and development stages for up to 12 months. The daily routine is based on age, prematurity, feeding methods, bedtime routine and wake-up time. The app further offers free parent tips to craft the newborn routine. Weekly summary of feeding and pumping tracker and the outcomes expected and achieved are also available. A bespoke suggestion for a baby’s day is also available on the premium version.

Aviation Pulse brings worldwide aviation news on your device totally free for no subscriptions or hidden charges. This app has been designed for aviation industry enthusiasts to keep them abreast of latest worldwide trends. The app provides information and content on aviation industry news sorted by categories, airlines, countries and aircraft types for convenience, exclusive blogs and posts from top aviation bloggers and people involved in the industry. Their take on certain trends and information about futuristic approaches, aviation events and conferences happening worldwide and an aviation related video and picture gallery. The information of 300 airlines is available on the app, including Qatar Airways, American Airlines, Delta Air, Etihad Airways, Air Baltic, Air France, British Airways, Easy Jet, Emirates, Finnair, Lufthansa, Ryanair, and Wizz Air. The app is updated every hour.

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• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with… Petr Dubsky The General Manager of The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, talks career ambitions and a love for Bahrain.

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5 OVER 5 •

The hospitality industry, with its long hours and sometimes difficult work-life balance, is not for everyone. What made you choose this sector? I believe, each one of us feels a connection to a specific industry. Since high-school, I knew hospitality was the right path for me. There are many areas which help us to channel our skills and knowledge, then the experience develops us towards our final goal. Being a hotelier means you have to be able to multi-task, understand how operations work at the ‘back of house’, and always think of the service you deliver to your guests through the ‘front of house’. Definitely, we have stressful situations, but the advantages which come with the job are beyond any doubt exceptional: the opportunity to work with many different nationalities; learning about new cultures; and creating lifelong memories. You have had, what seems to be, a very swift rise from bar/ restaurant manager to GM. To what do you attribute your success? And did you expect to be in this position, as one of the Kingdom’s youngest GMs, so soon? Success is an outcome of an ambition that comes from within. If you don’t have this drive in you, which encourages you to make steps outside of your comfort zone, all your hard work will go to waste. During my previous appointments, I always felt this urge to achieve more in my career. However, I must say, I am thankful my ambition was supported by great mentors. For the past 14 years with Radisson Hotel Group, I was guided by brilliant minds and the strong family pillar of my beautiful wife and daughters, who left a strong impact on my future steps. Today, I stand proud as a mentor to my colleagues and am grateful that RHG has strong faith in me and my leadership.

This is the third position you have held at The Diplomat, what keeps bringing you back to this property? Back in 2014, the Kingdom of Bahrain was my first stop in the Middle East, followed by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman. The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel is one of the flagship properties in MENA with great support from its owners, National Hotels Company. While I was working to progress in my career, building my way from Food and Beverage Manager to General Manager, without exception, I had Bahrain on the top of my list as a place where I would like to bring my family and raise my children. The country itself feels safe, gives comfort and a chance to genuinely feel at home. What’s going to be coming up at The Diplomat in the coming year that our readers should look out for? In 2019, we finished the renovation of the hotel and Health Club. Today we have new projects in the pipeline, however the official announcement is yet to come. Last year, we opened two new outlets Bo.Sabi, Asian restaurant, and Mondo, Taste of Italy. I guess, I would have to invite your readers to come and discover our beautiful property, enjoy Friday Brunch, book your new sport spot in Manama and visit one of the biggest ballrooms in the Kingdom. What is the thing you enjoy most about Bahrain? Would you recommend it to others in the hospitality industry? With a smile on my face, I must say, absolutely! I’m a Czech by nationality, but also a citizen of the world. I’ve lived in Ireland, Georgia, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain and gathered experience during my short relocations to Poland and Nigeria. However, Bahrain and the people of Bahrain, the locals, make you feel welcome, appreciated and respected. Unique, rare and graceful – this island truly is a Pearl of the Middle East. ✤ fact magazine

• VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN

LEARNING FROM THE MASTERS Steeven Gilles, Executive Chef at Masso and The Orangery Tearoom, on his early ambitions and rapid rise.

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VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN •

What or who first inspired your culinary ambitions? I always used to be around my mum and dad in the kitchen. It was fascinating to me what one could make with simple ingredients. I wanted to learn more, so I started an apprenticeship at 14 years old. Jean Coussau was the first chef that ignited a fire in me, his restaurant was the oldest two-Michelin-starred one in France. I was amazed by the quality and the diversity of the produce. We were a bunch of young apprentices, still green behind the ears, fighting over who was the fastest to open an oyster, everything was a competition. It was like a small military school, but it felt like family. Throughout your career, you have worked at very high-end restaurants, even undertaking an apprenticeship at the twoMichelin-starred Le Relais, how did you start to make your mark so early in your career? From the beginning on, I carefully chose the restaurants I wanted to work for: the reputation of the chef, the selection and the quality of the produce. I promised myself to go through each section of the kitchen, to make sure I learned absolutely everything there was to learn. I didn't have any private life at that time, I was completely immersed in the kitchen. When I was a demi chef de partie, I started creating my own dishes and presented them to the chef. I was so excited and saw it as an opportunity to learn from one of the best Meilleur Ouvriers de France and have their advice. This gave me a lot of motivation to keep going and to never stop trying. As a chef de partie, I worked at Le Bristol Hotel Paris which holds three Michelin Stars. I worked for over three years, creating around 10 dishes between Mise-en-Place and

service, until Eric Frechon finally put one of my dishes on the Menu, all my hard work had paid off. Bahrain is quite a departure from your earlier career. What made you decide to come to the island? Travelling, discovering new cultures and the food around them was always a passion of mine. I first left France with a strict idea of methods and recipes and moved to London. I barely spoke a word of English and worked for Chef Brett Graham at the Ledbury. He really thought outside the box in his style and methods. This opened up a whole new world that I wanted to discover. Fast forward five years and I was the Executive Head Chef of Celeste at the Lanesborough and had made my mark. It was time to move on for new ventures. Right at that time I got the job offer to come to Bahrain, a country in a region I have never been to, a cuisine I have known briefly, it just felt like it was meant to be. And, as it turns out, it was a true blessing, when a few months after moving here, the situation in the world around Covid started crumbling down including the hospitality business. Bahrain provided us a safe haven professionally and privately and I’m very grateful for it. What is your signature dish and why? I'm not sure I have a signature dish really; I love to reinvent myself and experiment. If there is one dish that I love serving at the restaurant it is Salt Crust Sea Bass with Sauce Vierge. I love the simplicity of this dish but the small details are so important in the execution to obtain the perfect texture and taste of the sea bass. Cooking meat or fish to perfection and finding the right seasoning is something I’m very passionate about, it’s one of the first things you learn at culinary school and should strive to master. ✤ fact magazine

SANTA MOZZARELLA! A trip to Italy without leaving the island is what Fernanda Langhammer and her dining companions experienced at the recently launched Meisei Italia.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

eisei has been a celebrated dining spot at block 338 for many years and has established itself as one of the best and well-prized Japanese Fusion destinations on the island. Over the years, they kept innovating and now, this beloved eatery has created a whole new concept – Meisei Italia. Overall Meisei is spread over three floors. The ground floor is where the Japanese creations come to life, and the rooftop is the place to enjoy a great lounge experience. The Italian concept, Meisei Italia, has taken over the first floor. The atmosphere is welcoming with comfy chairs. We sat in an area near a window that allowed us to peek inside the kitchen. We were welcomed by Chef Fabrizio Molendi, an authentic ‘chef Italiano’ from the Tuscany region, who created the Meisei Italia menu. You can clearly sense that he is passionate about cooking, but mostly, he is enthusiastic about his key ingredients coming straight from his homeland. Tuna is from Sicily, pasta from Napoli, burrata from Puglia, olive oil from Tuscany, and the list continues. Traditionally, the famous focaccia is medium-thick, soft and crunchy outside. However, throughout Tuscany, you can also find a thin and crispy version, and that’s the type that chef Fabrizio served us. The baked dough was paired with delicious olives and caperberries and simply baked with salt and olive oil. After eating every crumb of this delicious bread, we refreshed our palates with two types of salad, the Finocchio e Pompelmo and Nizzarda. The first is composed of fennel, grapefruit, almonds and honey citronette dressing. While Nizzarda, a French dish (Niçoise salad) with an Italian twist, comes with iceberg lettuce, eggs, cherry tomato, cucumber, Taggiasca olives, tuna (from Sicily), anchovies, basil and citronette. I don’t have the habit of eating fennel; however, the salad was crispy, well-balanced, and

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

spot-on. Meanwhile, my dining companions fought over the tuna chunks in the Nizzarda salad. The next dish is a must-try in any Italian diner – pizza! We had the Funghi Freschi with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil and a generous amount of fresh mushroom, and Napoli, with tomato cream, garlic, oregano and anchovies. The dough was thin and crispy, yet soft even with plenty of toppings (I can’t really explain this magic). The tomato cream was a spectacle apart, it had such a smooth texture and was not acidic at all. The first antipasti was the Vitello Tonnato Antico: veal, tuna, capers, anchovies and eggs, a mix of complex flavours that agreed to work well together. The other was the Polpo Grigliato Sulla Crema Di Patate, made with octopus, cream of potato, paprika and tomato confit. According to my dining companions, it was cooked to perfection and the star dish of the night. Authentic Italian restaurants have Primi (first course) and Secondi (second course) on their menus. The first is a selection of pasta dishes, and the second brings one type of protein as the main ingredient. Our Primi options were the Calamarata Sulla Crema Di Pomodoro and Linguine Sul Mare. Calamarata is a thick tube of pasta that was surrounded by a sauce that mixes cherry, Datterini and San Marzano tomatoes, garlic and basil. The Linguine pasta had prawns, mussels, squid, and sea bass accompanied by Pachino tomatoes (a tomato species specifically grown in Sicily). Each seafood sample was cooked to a perfect texture, and the dish had the right hint of sea to it. The Secondi were Branzino all’Acqua Pazza, a traditionally baked sea bass with an Italian touch of tomato, garlic, basil, celery, capers and Taggiasca olives. And the Costata Di Manzo Alla Fiorentina, a very tender Black Angus beef sliced, seasoned with salt, pepper and thyme and accompanied by baked potatoes. There was not even one slice left – it disappeared from the plate as fast as it arrived. To end this gastronomic journey, we had three desserts. The Italians, Tiramisu (the well-known ‘dolce’ made with mascarpone and coffee) and Panna Cotta, a vanilla dessert served with strawberry sorbetto. And the Spanish Crema Catalana, a lighter version of the French Crème Brûlée. They were all delightful, but the Panna Cotta always hits a soft spot for me, and at Meisei Italia, it was light and left a delicate vanilla taste. Italian cuisine is humble and straightforward. However, even a tomato sauce has its secrets. You need to mix the correct types of 64

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tomatoes and cook in different ways to achieve the ideal texture and flavour. And that’s what I believe is the biggest trick of Italian cuisine. The dishes are simple, but the quality of ingredients and patience are what make this food so unique when prepared by the hands of true connoisseurs. If you feel like stepping into an authentic Italian restaurant without leaving Bahrain, Meisei Italia will transport you through an explosion of original flavours. ✤

GO: CALL 1700 7770 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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THE TASTE OF INDIA The land of spices and Maharajas. A marvellous country, rich in mysteries and diversity. An ancient land with great history and amazing culinary heritage. Layal El Mahmoud re-discovers India’s flavours at Rivaaj.

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FOODIE CORNER •

llow me to start this culinary journey by inviting all of you out there who’ve not tried Indian cuisine till now, to dive into the world of cinnamon, cardamon, turmeric and chilli and enjoy the warmth of every bite. Hunting the perfect Indian restaurant in Bahrain may prove to be a challenge because of the abundance of good Indian eateries all around the island. Rivaaj at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is definitely one of the best. As you walk past the sliding doors, your eyes meet the grandeur of the spacious lobby. A feel of the majesty of the great Indian temples and lavish palaces comes across. The indoor space at Rivaaj is intimate with upholstered panels in red velvet fabric, parquet flooring, amiable lighting, and stone-clad columns with charismatic art pieces. The outdoor space is amazing when the weather is right. Privacy is always an option at Rivaaj with a spacious majlislike dining room. We surrendered our taste buds willingly to the chef and we did not regret it a pinch. One plate after the other landed on our table, only to leave us waiting impatiently for the next. Hara Bhara Kebab is a vegetarian kebab that reminded me of the famous falafel, it is packed with greens and filling. Tandoori Bhurani Jhinga took grilled prawns to a whole new level and Adraki Gilafi Seekh, presented at the table in a pottery jar amidst rising smoke, was simply the best grilled tandoori chicken I have tasted for a while. My favourite drink to accompany Indian dishes is the creamy fact magazine

• FOODIE CORNER sweet and cooling mango lassi, but this time I gave the strawberry a chance. The lassi, to me, makes the perfect balance against the abundance of spices, but you can choose from an array of beverages and quite an extensive menu loaded with fresh juices, soft drinks, and all kinds of creative concoctions. The main dish was served, and OMG the Black Dal Makhani was so perfectly prepared following the traditional slow cooking method, it was crazy good! We abandoned the great biryani and Tawa Mourgh Khurchan made with chicken, bellpeppers, and chilli, and were totally enchanted by the Dal. The live entertainment helped set the mood with traditional Indian music. Tunes that transport you and melodies close to being a magic carpet. The dessert list offers a range of options and all are well worth trying. Though they all looked delicious, we simply didn’t have space for any more after the amazing spicy treats we had so happily consumed. Never mind, it’s a great excuse to go back. Rivaaj at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is a 'must visit' destination. Book your next dinner now and enjoy with family or friends the rich and delish food that is well prepared with a lot of love and care. ✤

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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A CULINARY JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD Located in the heart of Manama’s bustling financial district, Tanushree Mathur made her way to Teatro, in Downtown Rotana Manama. 70

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DINING DELIGHT •

riving into the city, there is one thing I always worry about in Manama and that is parking, but as soon as I arrived, I was received by the warmest welcome from the valet. Greeted by the friendly smiles of the staff, we entered a trendy urban space immersed in deep warm colours, beaded crystal features, high ceilings and dim ambient lighting that immediately creates a relaxing mood and aura. Running across is a stylish bar and chic lounge providing a contrast to the main dining area. The jazz music playing in the background took me back to a funky bar I visited in Paris three years ago with my dad. Seated comfortably facing a beautiful view of the Bahrain Financial Harbour, Downtown Rotana is a perfect example of where old meets new. As I looked around, I couldn’t help but notice the diverse blend of guests from business professionals to families, to couples and friends, making it quickly evident that Teatro caters to a wide range of clients. Taking care of us right from the start with a big smile, the Executive Outlet Manager, Nowfal, presented us with a sharing plate of prawn crackers along with divine artisanal beverages. Kudos to the mixologists, each drink had its own distinct taste bursting with flavours. Out came different starters with options from each cuisine. A lover of all things Italian, my attention was immediately directed to the burrata salad. Encapsulated around juicy produce of fresh heirloom tomatoes, the moment I took a mouthful, the dreamy concoction created a heavenly blend of flavour and texture that I found hard to resist, balanced perfectly with the earthy sharpness of the baby beet coulis and drizzled with a herbaceous pesto and sweet-tart balsamic dressing.

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• DINING DELIGHT

I moved quickly through the finger-licking Dynamite Shrimp to the chef’s speciality dish: Tandoori Murgh Malai Tikka, a well-spiced chicken dish oozing deliciousness from the creamy yoghurt and warmth from the garam masala, something I would go back for. In no time, our waiter brought out our first main. An impressive display of sushi elevated with a dazzling dry ice effect – a definite Instagram-worthy moment! The platter consisted of a selection of my favourite crispy Maki rolls, colourful Rainbow rolls, Spider rolls, vegan sushi rolls, Chankinzushi (a flavoured egg pouch blessed with a cream cheese interior) and endless amounts of nigiri sushi and sashimi. Time to satisfy my inner carnivore with a well-presented sharing steak platter dressed with a stunning side of blooming onion, charred vegetables and buttery truffle mash. Slicing into that succulent piece of meat, it was clear that the waiter got my preference of cook time spot on! And what’s a steak without an ‘oh so divine’ pepper and mushroom sauce? We were particularly charmed by how accommodating the team were for our vegetarian photographer’s food needs. And by sheer luck we had the opportunity to dunk right into a rich creamy Daal Makhani – the dark horse of the evening, served with a vegetarian biryani which took all our attention away from the meat-heavy meal we had just had. This most definitely was the highlight. As the evening progressed, the culinary team embraced us as if we were one big family, finding happiness in feeding and taking care of us in every possible way. Reminding us that our journey was in its final leg, it was dessert time! Low and behold the team brought out a selection of decadent bite-sized treats. To our surprise, we were presented with a clever and playful interpretation on a sushi platter. Comprised of a medley of green tea and white chocolate mousse, ever-popular Mochi ice cream and coconutty mango roll, I pulled out a fresh pair of chopsticks and dived right in. The star of the show was the Banana Walnut Wonton, a crunchy spring-rollshaped delight, filled with a warm, gooey centre, glazed with a delightful dulce de leche sauce. Just when I thought we were done, Nowful brought out a divine warm Dark Chocolate Molten cake served with a rich vanilla sauce. To mark the end of an outstanding sensory experience, we wound up the evening with a pot of fresh peppermint tea. As we made our way out, the Executive Sous Chef, Froosh Nur, greeted us with sincere happiness, and I immediately promised 72

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that I would be back again. True to its name, Teatro delivered a theatrical dining experience from start to finish! Flavoursome fusion food, elevated by impeccable service in a casual-chic atmosphere. All you need is to gather with your friends and colleagues for a memorable time together, without hurting your pocket! Teatro welcomes the return of the Infinite Sushi promotion every Wednesday, Steak Night every Thursday and Magnificent Grapes, Cheese and Jazz daily, except Sundays, including happy hour with 50% off on selected beverages, from 5pm to 8pm. ✤

GO: CALL 1311 9999 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.

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FABULOUS FEASTS

Enjoy this month’s selection of amazing deals and special treats, including Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day offers, Holi celebrations and St Patrick’s Day parties. special in addition to the regular Friday spread of sushi, salads, Asian, Arabic and European dishes. The offer runs every Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD24 net, inclusive of soft drinks, BD35 net, inclusive of selected beverages, and BD11 net for children between the ages of six and 12, with no charge for children under six. GO: Call 1311 9999 for more information or to make a reservation.

DOWNTOWN ROTANA Teatro Downtown Enjoy an all-you-can-eat selection of your favourite sushi with Teatro’s Infinite Sushi Night. Feast on all your family favourites such as Volcano Maki, Lobster Maki, Crispy California Maki and more, while also enjoying the extraordinary ambience! The offer is available every Wednesday from 6pm to 10pm, with prices starting at BD19 net. GO: Call 3360 5070 or 1600 0111 for more information or to make a reservation.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN La Mosaique Restaurant Enjoy a Carnivore Night at La Mosaique, whether you prefer your meat rare or well done, stewed, cured or chargrilled, enjoy it alongside a unique combination of tableside service and live grill stations. The offer runs every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD19 net. GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3924 2391 for more information or to make a reservation.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN Spices Restaurant Take a break from your routine and experience an exclusive Business Lunch at Spices, the perfect place for great conversations, business meetings and appointments. Experience Chef Pramod’s special set menu and enjoy a twocourse or three-course menu with a soft drink. The offer runs daily from 12pm to 4pm and is priced at BD6 net for a two-course meal, inclusive of a soft drink, and BD8 net for three courses. GO: Call 1753 1122 or 3924 2391 for more information or to make a reservation.

DOWNTOWN ROTANA Flavours on 2 Fridays just got meatier at Flavours on 2! The Butchers Board Friday Brunch is back, featuring succulent cuts of beef, lamb and chicken, all cut and cooked to your preference. Enjoy this 74

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Rasoi by Vineet Enjoy a day of Holi and Mother’s Day celebrations. Treat your mum to a colourful and beautiful culinary journey, because they deserve all the love and more. The offer runs from March 18 to 21 and is priced at BD14 per person, inclusive of a set menu of 14 varieties. Ladies get a 50% Mother’s Day discount on March 21. GO: Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Takht Jamsheed Ring in the New Day, a New Beginning, a New Year! Celebrate the rebirth of nature, the first day of spring with the special Iranian New Year Celebration ‘Nowruz’! The offer runs from March 20 to 23 and is inclusive of a special set menu. Ladies get a 50% International Women’s Day discount on March 8 and a 50% Mother’s Day discount on March 21. GO: Call 1771 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY The Lawn In collaboration with Radical BBQ, Chef Wolfgang Puck and his culinary team are once again hosting the most anticipated Annual F1 Lawn Party. Located outdoors on The Lawn, guests are invited to enjoy some of the best Texas BBQ ribs, briskets and burnt ends Bahrain has ever seen. Enjoy handmade lamb sausages, jalapeno-cheddar biscuits, s'mores and a selection of pies, as well as a live band that will be performing throughout the night. The event is on March 19 and is priced at BD69 per person, exclusive of beverages. GO: Call 1711 5044 for more information or to make a reservation.

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• DINING DEALS

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN

Bay-View Lounge In celebration of International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day this March, Bay View will be offering a special mimosa cake for a limited time only. Selected for its beautiful fragrance and bright yellow colour, which is representative of the sun, the mimosa flower symbolises the nature of the secret of love, dedicated to all women. The offer runs from March 7 to 26 and is priced at BD6 or BD9 inclusive of a refreshing mocktail. GO: Call 1711 5500 or email diningreservations.bahrain@ fourseasons.com for more information or to make a reservation.

Xenia Bar and Lounge Want to feel the Luck O’ The Irish? Join Xenia Bar and Lounge on St. Patrick’s Day for a wee bit o’ fun and enjoy their flavourful Irish stew, desserts and drinks. The offer runs from March 17 to 19, 4pm onwards, and is priced at BD12 net per person. GO: Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Legendz Steakhouse Where does one travel to for a steak and lobster dinner? Legendz introduces the ultimate dining experience with their new Steak and Lobster three-course menu. Enjoy a delicious starter selection, followed by a 300g lobster tail, a 200g grilled tenderloin, and a dessert of your choice. The offer runs daily from 6pm to 10.30pm and is priced at BD28 net. GO: Call 1722 7777 for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Rigani Looking for a different dine-out experience? Try the traditional Greek Kusina at Rigani, a shared buffet with family-style food served on the Selections terrace with Greek tunes. You’ll experience traditional Greek cuisine with wide use of vegetables, grains, fish and meat. Available daily at BD20 net, inclusive of soft drinks, BD26 net, including grapes and hops, and BD29 net inclusive of enhanced beverages. Kids aged six to 15 get a 50% discount and there’s no charge for under sixes. GO: Call 1720 8308 or 3880 8533 for more information or to make a reservation.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Gallery Lobby Lounge & Silk’s Restaurant F1 season is upon us once again, but not all the fun is reserved just for petrolheads! Join Mövenpick for the most enticing F1themed brunch and enjoy unlimited food and drinks as the DJ spins all your favourite music hits. The offer runs on March 18 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD33 net inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. GO: Call 1746 0017 or 3364 0032 for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL SARAY RESORT MANAGED BY ACCOR The Palm Lounge Enjoy a splendid Afternoon Tea at The Palm Lounge with family or friends. Pamper your palate over an assortment of bright, flavourful pastries paired with delicious savouries and mouthwatering warm scones. The offer runs daily from 2pm to 7pm and is priced at BD25 net for two. GO: Call 6672 0026 for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL SARAY RESORT MANAGED BY ACCOR Havana Cigars Enjoy a bottle of grape and a cheese platter boasting fruits, nuts and a variety of cheese. The offer is perfect for a post-work catch up, as well as a date night later in the evening. Available daily at BD39 net for two. GO: Call 6672 0026 for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Links For a real home-away-from-home feeling, enjoy a perennial Grand Roast followed by all the sporting action on the big screens. Enjoy meats from a selection of beef, chicken or lamb, with a live DJ for some great entertainment. The offer runs on March 19 from 12.30pm to 3.30pm and is priced at BD16 for adults, BD8 for children under 12 and there’s no charge for kids under six. GO: Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB Links Enjoy Curry Fusion night with an array of mouth-watering curry dishes that will leave a mesmerising imprint on your taste buds! You’ll get unlimited Thai, Indian, Mediterranean, and Indonesian curries while enjoying the stunning view of the Championship course with live cooking stations. The offer runs every Tuesday, 6pm onwards, and is priced at BD17 for adults, BD8 for children under 12 and no charge for children under six. GO: Call 1775 1262 for more information or to make a reservation. 76

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DINING DEALS •

per person, inclusive of two glasses of a special green beverage. GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN Primavera Osteria Contemporanea Never-ending pasta just took a whole new meaning as Primavera Osteria Contemporanea offers seven varieties of authentic Italian delights that promise a refined reinterpretation of Italian traditions. The offer runs on Saturdays from 7pm to 10pm and is priced at BD24 per person. GO: Call 1758 6499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA AND SPA Saraya, Fiamma & Rivaaj Restaurants Sofitel Bahrain is celebrating women's achievements with a Grand Friday Women’s Day Brunch, raising awareness against gender bias, and taking action for equality in honour of International Women’s Day. Toast to the tune of live musical performances by the Cuban band and savour the tastiest dishes from a lavish international spread. The offer runs on March 4, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, and is priced at BD36 net per person, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more details or to make a reservation.

Baharat Restaurant Enjoy a Surf & Turf Night with your choice of a selection of prime beef cuts and fresh seafood flame-grilled to order. Garnish the grill experience with fresh salads, starters, and locally grown grilled vegetables. End your dinner with a treat from one of the largest selections of desserts. The offer is available every Thursday from 7pm to 11pm and is priced at BD17, inclusive of soft beverages, or BD28, inclusive of selected beverages. GO: Call 1717 1441 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE WESTIN CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN Salero Enjoy a special dinner with Chef Jordi Bataller, the originator of the Salero experience, who is coming directly from Spain. The event, taking place on March 17 and 18 from 7pm, is inclusive of a five-course set menu paired with selected beverages, all for BD35 net. Attendees also get a menu signed by the chef. GO: Call 1717 1300 or visit @salerobahrain for more information or to make a reservation.

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA AND SPA

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN

Rivaaj Restaurant Enjoy a Desi Junction Holi Brunch like a Maharaja in a festival of colour at Rivaaj, with spectacular colourful celebrations, a carnivalesque mood and authentic Indian traditional gastronomy. Awaken your senses and bond with your loved ones over a delicious spread of Indian fare from an exciting new menu or live cooking stations accompanied by live entertainment showcasing a sitar player and tabla percussionist. The offer runs on March 19 from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD20 net per person, inclusive of soft beverages, and BD25 net per person, with selected beverages. GO: Call or WhatsApp 3888 5789 for more details or to make a reservation.

The Bistro by Origins Give your mom the perfect treat with Vida’s Mother’s Day Dinner package to celebrate all the lovely mums in the house. Dig into the finest ingredients carefully handpicked to create the most delightful menu with a unique Mother’s Day spin. Book your table and create special moments with a charming dinner with a view in The Bistro by Origins’ beautiful ambience. The offer is available on March 21 from 7pm to 10.30pm, with all mums dining for free. GO: Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN La Plage Bundle up with your friends and family for a cozy St. Patrick’s Day celebration filled with traditional Irish favourites including a delicious stew, shepherd’s pie and a sumptuous dessert. The offer runs on March 17, from 12pm to 10pm, and is priced at BD25

VIDA BEACH RESORT MARASSI AL BAHRAIN The Bistro by Origins Gather round at Vida Bahrain for Bottomless Moules et Frites at The Bistro by Origins. Enjoy unlimited simmering mussels served with crunchy fries and an assortment of signature sauces of your choice such as Mariniere, Blue Cheese and Tomato. The offer runs every Thursday and is priced at BD9 net, inclusive of a 10% discount on selected hops. GO: Call 7748 8100 for more information or to make a reservation. fact magazine

• STAYCATION

TIME TO RELAX Liz O’Reilly spends a delightful midweek sojourn at the new Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain.

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STAYCATION •

n arrival, parking is easy and plentiful and reception has a definite edge of cool while, at the same time, feeling both calming and relaxing. A chilled colour palette of pale oatmeal and offwhite with accents of Aegean and cerulean blue feels very Ibizan – reminiscent of those villas in the hills where the glitterati hide out during the day till the mega clubs open. The welcoming staff are dressed in funky uniforms: white chunky trainers on bare feet, in lieu of the usual smart shoes, brightly coloured pocket squares adorning tailored jackets in a material that could easily be denim. But isn’t. They look as if they could be here to meet friends for an aperitivo but the service is impeccable. I head to my suite and am greeted by an absolutely breathtaking view as I open the door. It looks directly across to floor-to-ceiling windows facing onto beach and sea with Amwaj in the distance. I literally stand and catch my breath before strolling over to see a hand-written message of welcome written on the glass – there are a lot of these around the hotel and they add to the fun ambience. The space is light-filled and airy with two sets of balcony doors opening to the outside and the view, which from the distance is all sea but closer up, also encompasses the spotless beach and surrounding landscaped gardens. I begin to feel like I’m truly on holiday. My suite offers a dining and living area with full-sized table and chairs as well as a deep-cushioned sofa and armchairs. There’s also a kitchen, with hob and fridge, and a guest washroom. Leading from the bedroom is a large bathroom boasting a range fact magazine

• STAYCATION

of Brown Alchemist amenities, with just about everything thought of on a tray of travel extras, such as cotton buds and tooth brushes. There’s a separate shower and huge tub, which looks out over that fabulous view. The bed, oh the bed! Big, deep, soft and comfortable with plenty of plump pillows and, again, looking out to the balcony and beyond. I am honestly torn between drawing a bath and just surrendering to the call of the bed. But first, I must explore, since that’s what I’m here for. I head to the beach and am delighted at the feel of warm sand between my toes, this could become quite addictive. On one side, Vida’s beach joins with the neighbouring public area, while, on the other, it is linked to the beach of the upcoming Marassi Galleria Mall, which is also connected to The Address Beach Resort Bahrain, due to open later this year. Altogether there is 2km of glistening sand and welcoming water and I have to resist the temptation to jump right in. Heading through the lobby, we pass Origins, the all-day-dining restaurant, where the seriously popular Vida Friday Brunch is staged, and head up to the second floor to sample some other impressive features. First there’s the temperature-controlled infinity pool. A gorgeous, chilled area which looks like a Hockney-esque daydream, all white loungers, sun-dappled blue water and, of course, a convenient bar, for cooling drinks. The fitness centre is just down the corridor boasting plenty of Technogym equipment and available to guests 24 hours a day. There’s also a large terrace where you can do floor exercises or 80

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STAYCATION •

just cool down from your workout while enjoying, once more, the wonderful sea view. And then, probably the most fun feature of the whole hotel, Qix Kids Club. Inside it’s like a kiddie wonderland. There’re toy cooking stations, tee pees, loads of soft toys and books galore. There are daily play and learning sessions all overseen by capable staff – though it’s encouraged that little ones are accompanied. There’s also a games room featuring PlayStation 5 with a large screen where bigger kids can indulge in online gaming and this area boasts a foot-played floor piano mat that I can't resist trying. The outdoor terrace, with its fully-padded flooring, offers a safe, fresh-air play space with an obstacle course, including a sizeable climbing frame – that I find seriously tempting. Kids Club staffer, Alfie, explains that all the games and activities are designed to be both fun and educational, so parents can feel comfortable leaving their precious littles to have a great time while they make the most of Vida’s other facilities. As the afternoon draws to a close, I head back to my room to make the most of the balcony before dinner, enjoying a sparkling drink with my book as the sun goes down. It’s been a busy day of both work and exploring and I am more than happy to just relax and take in my surroundings. Later, I head downstairs to Origins and enjoy a simple meal of beautifully cooked lamb cutlets with mashed potatoes and vegetables. The meat is tender, pink and more than plentiful, the veggies crisp and satisfying and I am tempted to linger… but my bed is calling. After a quick shower and a longed-for cuppa on the balcony, watching the twinkling lights of Amwaj in the distance and the occasional seagoing vessel on the water, I finally get to sample that oh so tempting bed. No TV for me, it’s lights out straight away and between those distant lights and the whisper of waves breaking gently on the shore below, I’m asleep in minutes. The next morning, I am treated to an extensive breakfast from in-room dining, which arrives tiffin-style so everything is piping hot and fresh. I immediately tuck into smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, their colours as bright as the new day. The hash browns offer a satisfying crunch and there is a plate of bacon and sausage too. A dish of freshly sliced fruits acts as a tasty palate cleanser before I indulge in a pastry basket containing Danish, croissants and more with creamy butter from the individual butter bell. I experience my very own little slice of heaven at the table, with its starched white cloth, placed in front of the window, the balcony doors open to admit the glorious morning air. Then, all too soon, it’s time to pack my overnight bag and head back to work – but the joy of my mini holiday stays with me throughout the day bringing little smiles to my face every so often. Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain is the perfect spot for a family getaway with facilities that will keep everyone happy. But, it’s also great for some sneaky mid-week solo time and I’m planning my next stay already. ✤

GO: CALL 7748 8100 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION. fact magazine

• ARTS & CULTURE

AN ODE TO THE ISLAND OF PEARLS Local poet shines a light on Bahrain as a cultural and historical treasure

laudia Hardt, local poet and writer, brings true cultural awareness to the beauty of Bahrain through her latest poem featured in the recent poetry anthology Culture and Identity released in February. The poem, titled My Deep Blue Sea, is a love letter from a pearl to her ‘home and harbour’, the sea. With vivid imagery and vibrant language, the little gem describes the charming way in which the waters act as a protective and loving parent-like figure, giving the little pearl hope and providing a place where its soul can find rest. The charming lyric was featured in the first volume of the anthology published by former Bahrain resident and British author Robin Barratt, featuring 97 poets from 53 countries. German-born Bahrain resident, Claudia, started off studying journalism and working in the hospitality and tourism sector, allowing her to travel around the world. She worked at the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong, which brought her to the The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. She is a member as well as the Director of PR and Communications of the Bahrain Writers’ Circle (BWC) and has been writing all her life. From travel pieces to magazine columns to prose and now poetry, she has virtually written it all, with her work published in Malaysia, Hong Kong, Cyprus, U.A.E., Germany and Bahrain. “I started writing poetry only a few years back here in Bahrain. One of my friends from BWC encouraged me to write a poem for a book called Poetic Bahrain. I never thought I would be able to compose a single line. However, like with everything in life, you have to push yourself. “It was a great feeling seeing my first-ever poem, My Little Pearl, Lulu released in the book in 2015 and was an amazing journey exploring new ways of expression. I am grateful for my friend’s support who made me realise that ‘Yes, I can do it!’” Since she began dabbling in poetry, the writer has had her work featured in several published collections, including Poetic Bahrain (2015), What Women Really Want – And Why Men Sometimes Get It So Wrong (2015), LONELY (2016), TRAVEL (2016), LOCKDOWN 2020 (2020), and now Culture and Identity (2022). Having travelled extensively around the globe, she has been inspired by different cultures and traditions. Upon arriving in Bahrain, she was equally intrigued by the locals and their heritage and history, this being a fundamental theme in her poetry. 82

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“I feel inspired by the rich culture, heritage and natural beauty of Bahrain. “My poetry mainly focuses on the tradition of pearl diving and the pearl. I have a great passion for these gems and Bahrain’s history with its deep roots going back more than 5000 years. “My poetry means identity to me. Although it is centred around our tradition and heritage of pearl diving and trading – which obviously is not something I grew up

ARTS & CULTURE •

- my tomorrow, was featured in the series and speaks of the endless beauty of the city and the island, as well as its many achievements, with elegant and graceful language. The writer stresses the importance of poetry to her, arguing that: “Poetry connects people. It reflects the thoughts and imagination of others and can help us understand the world around us. Poetry can also be therapeutic and a way of expressing one’s feelings that, under normal circumstances, one couldn’t.” Her passion for writing and other artistic mediums as well as her involvement in the BWC has inspired her to contribute to the art scene on the island, organising art exhibitions, including the prestigious Harbour Gate exhibition called Confluence – Where Words and Images Meet as well as the annual poetry festival Colours of Life. Claudia herself has contributed to all the editions of ‘Confluence’, including the 2021 edition which exhibited her poem My Deep Blue Sea paired with local artist Layla Hussain Mohamed’s picture Gumasha (pictured), as well as the 2019 edition, which featured Claudia’s special jewellery piece adorned with pearls paired with her poem Dana. “Poetry plays an important role in our country and culture, and we need to support this craft. Of course, the most important advice for all writers and poets is write, write, write! Don’t give up and don’t be discouraged if you are struggling with your poetry,” says Claudia enthusiastically. The author plans to continue writing her wonderful poems and bringing more attention to the exquisite beauty of the island she now calls home. ✤

MY DEEP BLUE SEA BY CLAUDIA HARDT (a love letter of a pearl to her homeland, the sea)

with – I identify myself with these roots as they are close to my heart.” Her first poem My Little Pearl, Lulu, ‘Lu’lu’’ meaning ‘pearl’ revolves around Bahrain’s national gem, with its dominant image serving as a symbol of cultural identity. Her other poem, dubbed Dana, also an Arabic word for ‘pearl’ revels in images of the sea, with the narrator calling out for “the light of the unclouded dawn”, “hope and growth” and the “soul of the deep blue sea” to “come back to the shores of the ‘two seas’”. The writer also recently contributed to HSBC Middle East’s Voices of Our City poetry series, featuring poets from six cities in the region, including Manama, in celebration of UN World Cities Day. The event aimed to bring stories of the cities to the fore, bringing light to their transformation over the decades as well as their commitment to a better future. Claudia Hardt’s poem, Manama - my yesterday - my today

My deep blue sea You are my passion and devotion, My imagination and emotion, You are my harbour, My home, where my soul finds rest, On the edge of the ocean’s breast. My deep blue sea You surround me with darkness and light, You give me hope and a lustrous sight, You are my harbour, My home, where nothing can set us apart In this wonderful deep sea world of art. My deep blue sea Your waves, all around, wrap me in peace, Your gentle waves keep my heart at ease, You are my harbour, My home, where silence speaks a million words, Unique and mystic, my wonderful world…

fact magazine

• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Encanto Need to Know:

Encanto is a family musical and animated movie from Disney that follows the Madrigals. They live hidden in the Colombian mountains in a magical place called the Encanto (charmed). It's a very easy-going movie that is enjoyable to watch.

Creators: Byron Howard, Jared Bush Cast: Stephanie Beatriz, Jessica Darrow, Diane Guerrero, John Leguizamo, María Cecilia Botero

“

You can't help yourself from connecting with the deep emotions portrayed by each character as you feel the tension of the story.

Euphoria Need to Know:

Euphoria is a 2019 drama series with the first episode of the second season released in January 2022. Its main character is a 17-yearold called Rue, a high school student dealing with tough subjects such as loss, addiction, love and the difficulties of navigating this new social environment while still discovering her identity and place in the world.

Creators: Sam Levinson Cast: Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Angus Cloud, Jacob Elordi, Alexa Demie, Sydney Sweeney, Maude Apatow

Why Is It Worth Watching?

Encanto is an absolutely enchanting movie to watch both with kids and alone! We follow the main character Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz), and her magical family. They attempt to protect the 'Encanto' that gifted each of them with unique magic when Abuela (Maria Botero) was in need. However, Mirabel is the only one in her family who does not receive such a gift and even though they seem like a picture-perfect family, deep-rooted issues create a strain within them. On the surface, it looks like a simple children's film, but the animation explores complex issues such as generational trauma. In this case, the trauma Abuela experiences when she must leave her home and she loses her husband. Apart from the beautifully constructed story, the animation is also worth mentioning, from vibrant colours to every element's smooth, fluid movements. Encanto is a visually stunning movie and attentive to the details put into each character and the way emotion is represented on each animated character's face. The songs are also definitely going to be stuck in your head for a few days.

fact magazine

Why Is It Worth Watching?

This series is probably one of the best teen shows out there, with a complex and expertly crafted story. With Rue (Zendaya) being the unreliable narrator guiding the audience through her own life as well as the lives of those around her. This approach adds an interesting layer to the story, and the fourth wall breaks are always unexpected. Everything about this show is stunning. The gorgeous visuals and cinematography allow the audience to feel an intimate connection with each character and their emotions. The soundtrack and the camera angle also only add to the intensity of each scene. The excellent performances augment the immersion and the lines between acting and reality seem blurred. You can't help yourself from connecting with the deep emotions portrayed by each character as you feel the tension of the story. The characters are also well developed, with them all having their moral issues and unique views on the situations on screen. An incredible show that is most definitely a must-watch!

ENTERTAINMENT •

ON THE RECORD

FULLY BOOKED

FICTION

The Good Son

By Jacquelyn Mitchard

ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

Lucifer on the Sofa By Spoon

Texas Moon By Leon Bridges & Khruangbin

Well, excuse us for thinking we’d discovered something new only to find, from the UK’s Guardian newspaper, that Spoon, ‘a little band from Austin, Texas’ were one of the most reviewed acts of the 2000s and have actually been going for 17 years! Spoon, where have you been all our lives? The five-piece indie rockers have just released a new album, catchily titled Lucifer on the Sofa, and, as you can probably tell already, we’re more than a little bit in love. For us, the standout tracks include The Devil and Mr Jones which rounds in from a big opener to something much more laidback and contemplative. Then you check out the lyrics, which seem an ode to a certain illicit substance, and realise that, as with so much from this band, there’s more to discover. Wild is new but oh so familiar. You could be listening to this at any time over the last 20 years and it wouldn’t be out of place. Make sure you listen out for the early U2-esque guitars, though that’s where the similarity ends. Astral Jacket has a deeply mellow intro, into which we fell immediately, and with lyrics like “In the blink of an eye, You feel so fine, You move in light divine, In the blink of an eye, You feel it, You lose all track of time,” this is like the soundtrack to a dream and requires at least several listens. And last but not least, the title track, Lucifer on the Sofa, which features some jazzy brass and a story-telling vibe.

American soul singer, songwriter and record producer, Leon Bridges, teams up with eclectic trio Khruangbin – it’s pronounced Krung-bin in case you were wondering – for an EP that’s genre defying and easy listening at the same time. A follow up to the collabo’s 2020 release Texas Sun, Texas Moon is a little darker, a little more soulful but still filled with references that are unmistakably modern-day Texas scene. Opener Doris is the perfect showcase for Leon Bridges’ voice with an almost psychedelic background over a distinctly soul-inspired bassline and the storytelling capabilities of old-school soul. B-Side – watch the video to encounter the weirdness of Khruangbing – channels the fest of funk, an almost fusion of indie and RnB – and will be guaranteed to have you on your feet or chair dancing if, like us, you’re working as you listen. Chocolate Hills sounds just a little bit Princey, a compliment indeed. But, to be honest, it’s really not fair to compare these guys to anyone else, their sound is so fresh and just a welcome new listening experience. Father Father is a tuneful departure from the overtly soulful influences. The lyrics – bell-clear – are sad and contemplative but the sound is deeply mellow. A tune for relaxing and switching off to. Mariella. We love the intro on this track and its tale of lost love which beautifully illustrates the country feel. Gentle, tuneful and overall, the whole ticket. Texas Moon, as an EP, might be short but it packs a whole lot of musical experience into its 22-minute- plus running time.

What do you do when the person you love most in life becomes unrecognisable to you? You try to adjust and find bits of that person. For Thea Demetriou it’s the same. As her son Stefan is sentenced for the drug-fuelled murder of his love interest Belinda — she still finds ways to keep loving him somehow. Stefan is released from prison after three years and struggles to make amends in a community that wants nothing to do with him. Jacquelyn wonderfully describes Thea’s struggles to understand her son. Often she still sees her sweet boy but at other times a young man tortured by guilt and broken by the hardships of prison. It’s an intense emotionally-charged drama bursting with guilt, forgiveness and a beautiful account on motherhood.

URBAN FICTION

Brown Girls

By Daphne Palasi Andreades This bold and daring debut novel is set in Queens, New York and explores a group of friends and their immigrant families. The story introduces a group of young women of colour growing up in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Friends Nadira, Gabby, Trish, Naz and Angelique attempt to connect and find the common ground between their immigrant backgrounds and American culture. Their struggles bring them closer, forming friendships for life. They sing Mariah Carey at the top of their lungs whilst roaming the streets of New York and trying to be the obedient daughters their mothers want. As they age, although their paths diverge, they still remain close and familiar to each other. fact magazine

DIVE INTO SPRING A vibrant spring collection, endorsed by beloved Lebanese singer Myriam Fares and aimed at inspiring shoppers to experiment with new possibilities has been launched by REDTAG. 86

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FASHION FOCUS •

he Myriam-inspired Spring 2022 Collection is inspired by people’s desire to ‘dive in’ to new possibilities. The pieces showcase vibrant prints and styles that exude a spring vibe, inspired by the desire to discover uncharted territories in fashion and explore a world of increasing choices, opportunities, freedom, authenticity, and personal rejuvenation. Highlights include flowing silhouettes with classic cuts; maxis, printed skirts, straight and palazzo pants in urban and contemporary styles; and apparel that embodies effortless chic. The spring colour palette includes both soft pastel hues and brighter shades of the season. The latest collection and the matching accessories meet the practical as well as stylistic demands of routine life and special occasions. Meanwhile, the brand’s regular spring collection is inspired by the positivity and the optimism associated with the season. The new collection bears the brand’s promise of being in sync with changing styles and the socio-cultural evolution in the region. The statement-making pieces offer something special for the whole family, and come in plus sizes as well, in line with the brand’s inclusive approach. The styles exude the vitality of spring, resonating with those who see fashion as the ultimate form of self-expression. This spring, there is an air of optimism as people leave the pandemic days behind and look forward to better times.

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• FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS •

Highlights include tropical floral print shirts, trendy tees and suave polos for men and dresses with geometric prints, scalloped V-necks, casual rugged ensembles, and matching accessories for women. Comfort remains a key consideration, be it in simple statement shirts or dressing up for casual outings, easy-to-wear dresses and colorful basics create an emerging and mood-boosting direction. ✤ SHOP THE STORY @REDTAG-STORES.COM fact magazine

• FOR HER

Clé de Peau Beauté

NEW &

Brightening Serum Supreme Time to glow! This luxurious Clé de Peau serum is all about brightening dull, uneven skin tones. It improves skin’s youthful clarity by targeting visible dark spots and dullness. The serum is rich and silky in texture and minimises the appearance of dark spots in two weeks. It contains the highest concentration of exclusive brightening ingredient, 4MSK, to target visible hyperpigmentation and brighten skin tone while Sea Ferment Brightener actively prevents hyperpigmentation before it appears. The hero ingredient is the brand's 4MSK complex.

Inala Power Potion Inala is a brand born out of DIY’ing beauty treatments while at home. Like many of us at the beginning of the pandemic, Lala Anthony took to trying out home remedies. The first product of her brand is Power Potion, a rice water, biotin, arginine-powered leave-in hair treatment that strengthens strands and stimulates the scalp for optimal growth. It also replenishes with hydration and helps minimise breakage.

Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle Correcting Eye Cream While many eye creams tend to be on the rich side in terms of texture, this new whipped formula by Clinique is lightweight but doesn’t hold back on treating fine lines and wrinkles. Free of parabens and phthalates, it contains less than 1% synthetic fragrance, and comes in recyclable packaging. Thanks to its peptide complex, it visibly smooths delicate eye-area skin and helps boost natural collagen, support skin’s natural structure and strengthens the moisture barrier.

Amika 3D Daily Leave-In Hair Thickening Treatment Set the foundation for healthy hair growth with Amika’s 3D Daily Leave-In Hair Thickening Treatment that is a daily scalp treatment. The secret is in a patented blend of ingredients, along with hydrolyzed rice and vegetable proteins that add body and shine. The hydrolysed rice protein helps improve hair volume while providing thickness and natural shine and vegetable protein helps thicken, moisturise, and make hair more manageable. The treatment is suitable for all hair types.

ROSE INC Skin Enhance Luminous Skin Tint A lightweight, skincare-make-up hybrid complexion product that also plays well with masks because these formulas tend to be lightweight. Rose Inc.'s Skin Enhance Luminous Skin Tint offers sheer your-skin-butbetter coverage and a hydrated, glowy finish. The serum's spheres keep the ingredients potent throughout the bottle's lifespan. Available for 28 different skin tones, pigment spheres are suspended within a skincare base infused with sodium hyaluronate to visibly plump and smooth the appearance of fine lines, squalane to weightlessly hydrate the skin, and peptides to help protect against environmental damage.

fact magazine

FOR HIM •

NOW Scents, skincare, grooming musthaves – check.

Lumin After Hours Recovery Oil Don’t let your eyes tell the story of a man who’s not getting enough sleep! Let Lumin’s After Hours

Neutrogena

recovery oil take those tired eyes and pump some

T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo-Extra Strength

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It’s time to say good bye to dandruff and that scalp

replenishes and hydrates your skin while working

itch with Neutrogena’s latest scalp care collection.

to reduce the dark circles under your eyes. More

The

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formula contains Neutar (1% Coal Tar), proven to

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dermatologist-recommended

control your flaky, itchy scalp for hours after it’s rinsed out. Its rich, amber formula gently cleanses, and the added conditioners leave hair manageable and soft.

Givenchy Givenchy Gentleman Réserve Privée A woody, floral, ambery fragrance, Givenchy Gentleman Réserve Privée is composed of traceable

Sweet Chef

BRO MASK

Carrot Ginger & Salicylic Acid Pore Cleanser

Korean Face Mask for Men

is the striking duality between liquor absolute

It’s time for guys to up their skin-care game with

BRO MASK’s Korean Face Mask for Men is an

and iris, the emblematic ingredient of Gentleman

a cleanser made of natural ingredients and strong

incredibly versatile product. Infused with collagen,

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and brightens skin, while improving tone and

solution, anti-ageing cream or as a soothing after

Givenchy Réserve Privée are full of promise.

texture over time. The gentle lather clarifies and

sun treatment. What they do not contain, however,

Coriander seeds and bergamot create a fresh,

brightens the complexion by harnessing the power

are chemical additives; they are made wholly free

aromatic accord that conceals the warm sensuality

of brightening ginger, pore-tightening carrot, and

of parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. The face

at the heart of the fragrance; powdery, slightly

decongesting and exfoliating salicylic acid. This

masks have a thick gel-like texture to deliver

woody iris mingles with the sweetness of Siam

formula helps to remove excess oil from the skin’s

active ingredients deeper into the skin for greater

benzoin and chestnut. The experience ends with

surface, making it ideal for blemish prone skin.

hydration/refreshment plus higher efficacy and

an intense trail, where cedar, patchouli and vetiver

Once rinsed off, your face is left clean, bright and

adhesion over paper masks; they stop evaporation

essences blend and are rounded by a balmy note:

balanced — not tight.

and lock in moisture so skin absorbs every drop.

the evocation of woody, ambery, textured notes.

top-quality ingredients. What makes it captivating

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• BEAUTY SPOTLIGHT

THE PERFECT GIFT Bath & Body Works’ new collection has the perfect little something to give to the women in your life this season.

ath & Body Works has introduced its newest collection, Pure Wonder, showcasing an array of special items, from hand soaps, body butters and shower gels, to room sprays and car fragrances. For all those looking for a special something to give to the strong women in your life on the occasion of International Women’s Day or Mother’s Day (or both!), the Pure Wonder collection is sure to offer the perfect gifts that everyone would appreciate. The new collection is the latest addition that testifies to the brand’s continued commitment to its vision: to make the world a “brighter, happier place through the power of fragrance”. This is the idea they were founded on and it is at the heart of everything they do. Delight in a sense of wonder with magical blends of warm white amber, iced rose, and star jasmine, the collection’s new scents. What could be a better combination to reflect all of what we love in traditional and feminine scents? Pure Wonder’s bath and cleansing products, which include 92

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shower gel, moisturising body wash, Celestial body scrub, hand soap, body lotion, body cream, hand cream and body butter, are infused with nourishing vitamin E and aloe vera to provide a gentle and non-drying cleanse to the skin, with ingredients such as shea, cocoa butter and coconut oil to ensure your skin feels hydrated, pampered and smooth. The collection’s fragrances, on the other hand, which include room sprays, fine fragrance mists, onthe-go fragrances, perfumes, hand sanitisers, wallflowers, candles and car fragrances, include fragrance and essential oils that instantly put your mind at ease. Bath & Body Works is one of the world’s leading speciality retailers of fashion fragrances for your body and your home. Today, their products can be purchased at more than 1,900 Bath & Body Works retail locations worldwide, and in over 160 locations across the Middle East and North Africa. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.BATHANDBODYWORKS.COM.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Shop Now!

bathandbodyworksarabia • www.bathandbodyworks.com.bh bathbodyworksar • Customer Service: 8000-1320

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• SOCIETY

#GRANDOPENING #FRISCA #BAHRAINMALL

#RADIOBAHRAIN #NEWCORPORATEIDENTITY

#INTERCONTINENTALREGENCYBAHRAIN 94

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SOCIETY •

#SPRINGOFCULTURELAUNCH #BAHRAINNATIONALTHEATRE

#TENNISGRANDSLAM #THERITZCARLTONBAHRAIN fact magazine

• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Dogs On Film

Water Laugh!

Timeless Fashion

There’s been a lot of action on social media just recently about the latest film from Channing Tatum, DOG. It tells the story of an Army Ranger, who is tasked with transporting a troubled military dog, Lulu, to the funeral of her former handler. So far, so cute, right? Unfortunately, Lulu is a working Belgian Malinois. As with so many films, the inclusion of the breed is likely to lead to a surge in popularity for the Malinois. As a breed, they’re the SAS or Navy Seals of the dog world but, like those special forces, they need very specific

Well, now we’ve heard everything…we think. Viewers on a UK TV show reacted angrily to a segment about a chap who calls himself a ‘Water Sommelier’ and insists that various varieties of H2O should be cherished and tasted in the same way as fine grapes. In a taste testing he presented a £130 bottle of precious liquid, which apparently sells for much more in restaurants. Yes, it’s harvested by hand from a melting glacier in Patagonia and then transported by boat, presumably to a bottling plant. He describes it as more about the story than actual hydration.

We were rather taken by a silly story of Italian fashion house Moschino sending models down the runway in outfits inspired by furniture. From a lampshade hat to a chest of drawers and even a grandfather clock, big-name fashionistas donned the show-stopping creations and, no doubt, drew gasps of admiration and rounds of applause from the Milan Fashion Week audience. Seriously, though this sounds like a bizarre anecdote, it’s actually true and it makes us wonder if the fashion world really does take us for fools? Yes, we know the outfits paraded on the

and ongoing training and a job to do. In short, they are NOT great family pets! And that’s what the social media action has been about, urging people to enjoy the movie but don’t rush out and get yourself a Malinois! As someone very sensibly said: “If you didn’t rush out and become a stripper after watching Magic Mike, don’t go buy yourself a cool dog after watching DOG!”

But, is it just us, or is this slightly bonkers? In this part of the world, we, pretty much, all drink bottled water, of necessity. But, truly, when you’re in a country like the UK, where tap water is perfectly safe to drink, why on earth would anyone consider paying that kind of money for a plain old bottle of water? It reminds us of that old prank that if you say oranges slowly, it sounds like gullible.

catwalk are meant as inspiration, you know, they’re not for real life – though we bet we’ll see certain stars sporting some of the more outrageous of them on the red carpet in the coming awards season – but we’d like to know how they get away with this sort of nonsense and people lap it up in the name of fashion. If you ask us, fashion, like much of the world at the moment, has gone a bit crazy.

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@Hadag_Me http: //Issuu.com/hadag fact magazine

ISLAND INSIDER

Johnross Gomes Marketing Manager at Ferrari

What does a typical day look like for you? One of my favourite parts of my job is that there is no true ‘typical’ day. I try to start my morning by catching up—reading and responding to my emails and messages and checking in with my direct reports. I try to do any creative work around mid-day, since that’s when I’m most energised. I usually spend the remainder of my day on focused work, usually analysing ongoing or completed projects.

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As a marketing professional, you have found your niche in the high-end automotive industry. What sets this sector apart from others? The automotive life and culture are something one can theoretically enjoy even without being a licensed driver or owning a car. The high-end automotive realm offers a virtually inexhaustible range of things to appreciate, from the aesthetics of good automotive design and the deep and intricate history and traditions of the industry to the thrill of a high-horsepower engine giving you tremendous freedom and control over where you want to go and when.

If you could ow n any car in the world, mone y no obj e ct, what would it b e and why? The Ferrari F50 is my all-time favourite Ferrari. It has truly gone down as a ‘forgotten’ supercar - the middle child that nobody seems to remember. The F50 is special for two reasons. Firstly, it featured in Need for Speed, a game I spent hours playing as a child. Secondly, it’s incredibly rare (349 units built makes it rarer than the LaFerrari, the Enzo or the F40) and because its open roof allows you to hear the glorious engine - an engine originally developed for a Formula 1 race car.

F1 LAWN PARTY B Y

W O L F G A N G

P U C K

In collaboration with Radical BBQ, Chef Wolfgang Puck and his culinary team are once again hosting the most anticipated F1 BBQ party in Bahrain. Guests are invited to enjoy some of the best Texas BBQ ribs, briskets and burnt ends Bahrain has ever seen. Live band Gold & DJ Jez Pereira will be performing throughout the night. THE LAWN Saturday 19 March, 2022 8:00 pm onwards BHD 69 per person - exclusive of beverages

Party with us (+973) 1711 5044 | fourseasons.com/bahrain

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