90 November 2013 www.bahrainthismonth.com discoverbahrainrediscoveringriffa anniversary. It displays paintings, photographs and documents depicting Bahrain’s national military history and the BDF’s role in major historical events. The museum also contains exhibits dedicated to the army, navy and air forces. A short walk or drive into Hunainiyah Valley will have you passing the Hunainiyah Public Park, which is an ideal picnic spot and play area for children. On some days, tourists can check out the various wares, such as traditional foods and garments, made and sold by local women. Directly opposite the park is the Hunainiyah cemetery which lends an air of tranquillity. A sporty lifestyle Around a 10 to 15 minute drive from the park, towards the southern region, is the famous Riffa Views, a distinguished residential as well as commercial complex created by Arcapita that offers an assortment of facilities, including shopping, sea sports and a water park. While you’re in the area, why not try a round of golf on the Gulf’s oldest sand course, and sample the game as it was originally played in the desert. It is considered a must-do activity in the Kingdom and is a great venue for a day out with family and friends. The entire game at Awali Golf Club is played on sand. It is located very close to the Royal Golf Club, which is built on the Riffa Views grassy landscape and is Bahrain’s only championship golf course. Horses are a prominent part of Bahraini culture and Riffa boasts the location of the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club. Racing season extends from October to April every year with about 300 horses participating. East Riffa is home to Bahrain National Stadium, where most football matches and important sports events in Bahrain take place. The local fare If you feel like a bit of shopping while in East Riffa, there are numerous shopping malls to choose from, more so than in its West counterpart. Popular markets in this area are Riffa Souq and Bukuwara Street Market. The former is older and larger, while the latter is more modern and typical of Riffa’s blend of the traditional and cosmopolitan aspects of Bahrain. Arabic garments, jewellery, perfumes and carpets are among the traditional items being sold in these markets. East Riffa is also full of fantastic eateries with foods from all around the world. The population of East Riffa includes people of all nationalities, ethnicities and walks of life and the types of products available in these markets reflect that wonderful diversity. One can browse through the shops at the many malls or purchase a traditional jalabiya from the showroom of Kubra Al Qaseer, the celebrated pioneer of the Bahraini fashion industry. This city offers the perfect getaway, whether you are looking for an exciting day out or just a little peace of mind. The mall culture Enma Mall is one of the biggest shopping complexes in Bahrain. The new amenities, state-of-the-art technology and family-friendly features of this newly designed mall enhance the overall shopping experience. Contemporary in design, this mall is surrounded by greenery. The suburb is well served by other shopping hubs like Oasis Centre, Al Reem Centre and Wadi Mall. One of the additions to its retail segment is Lulu Hypermarket. The premium retail complex at Riffa Views, Riffa Palms, recently launched Alosra as its anchor store. It offers a wide selection of fresh produce, baked goods, delicatessen, fresh meat, fish and poultry, and household goods. As part of its Think Local campaign, the store will also promote local products together with an eclectic mix of global brands. Riffa Palms is also home to Bahrain’s newest art space — Hue. While East Riffa has more by way of shopping malls and activities, West Riffa has The Walk. This open-air mall features elegant tea cafés and fine dining restaurants. Educational institutions The Royal University for Women (RUW) is the first private, purposebuilt, international university in the Kingdom of Bahrain dedicated solely to educating women. Riffa Views International School is uniquely positioned to Riffa Clock Tower BDF Military Museum Alosra at Riffa Palms
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