66 July 2014 www.bahrainthismonth.com france in bahrain ELMA BARTHOLOMEW Even though we might not realise it, there’s a bit of France in our day-today life. From the café culture to our style quotient, Bahrain’s people have much in common with the French. Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind about France is its love for designs. This drive for being chic is consistent across the fashion industry as it is in home décor, architecture and automobiles that hail from the European nation. A closer look at Bahrain’s people and culture will reflect the lifestyle of the French. We’re both fond of art and the café scenes in both countries are almost identical. We take a closer look at the presence of France in Bahrain beyond the obvious. Economical ties We are home to one of the leading aluminium smelters in the world, Aluminium Bahrain BSC (Alba). Recently a delegation accompanied by chief executive Tim Murray met the Consul General at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Paris, Jassim Mohamed Abbas Biljeek. This meeting highlighted the long-term trade relation that Alba shares with numerous French companies. Club d’Affairs Franco Bahrainien (FCB), commissioned by the Trade Commission of the French Embassy and local businessmen, is a nexus that facilitates business between the two countries. France’s Technal is a strong player in the Kingdom’s aluminium and building materials segment, and further strengthening this stand is its brand Luméal. Intercol is another establishment that distributes French brands across several segments that includes electronics, IT equipment, and other consumer products. Make a statement With Parisian styles, it is always about making a statement. The Parisian chic look is one that women around the world try to master. Thanks to iconic brands, such as Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Lacoste, made available in the Kingdom, French style is attainable for our fashion forward customers. Yateem Opticians is a leading retailer in the eye care industry in the region, having celebrated more than 100 years of success. Most of its triumph in the market can be traced back to its stocking up of French brands. The love for design spreads into the living space as well. Roche Bobois’ furniture is one such example. Visit the store in Seef for a glimpse of the clean and crisp designs, tailoring and upholstery for which France remains undisputed. Croissants and cheese If you’ve cooked for the French, you can cook for the world. It is said that the most intricate cooking techniques were invented in France. For those who appreciate the finesse of French cuisine, there are a number of dining venues across Bahrain to savour authentic flavours. Some of these include Camelot, Café Lilou, and PAUL’s Bakery and Restaurant. Aside from restaurants, our island is home to two French hospitality giants. Accor’s Novotel Al Dana Hotel & Resort offers a unique experience with villas by the beach. Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa is perfect for a weekend getaway, where you can enjoy a splendid holiday without having to leave the city. Understanding France Alliance Française of Manama is the leading centre in Bahrain for French language services and francophone resources. Their services include French language courses for children and adults, cultural activities, a state-of-the-art library and an outreach programme. The AF of Manama is the only testing centre in Bahrain to offer language certifications. Lycée Français de Bahreïn is an institute that offers top-grade French education. The school prepares its students for the French Baccalaureate, a diploma recognised worldwide for its excellence. The offered curriculum and exams conducted come under the Ministry of Education, France. With institutions like these you can learn and understand the French culture right here in Bahrain. Adopting the French Culture Lacoste
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