Summertime bliss in Salalah The inflight magazine of Oman Air | July 2017 | Your Copy To Keep facebook.com/omanair |
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Marhaba
Dear Guests It is a great pleasure to welcome you on board your Oman Air flight today. July officially heralds the start of the stunning monsoon season in the south of Oman. To welcome the season and encourage both residents and visitors to celebrate this amazing natural event, the Ministry of Tourism and Dhofar Governorate organises the Salalah Tourism Festival. This is well worth a visit and we are delighted to again be supporting this event. Where last year eleven flights a day were operated between Salalah and the Omani capital of Muscat, with a capacity increase of 15 000 seats compared to the previous year, this year Oman Air will offer 13 frequencies a day. The increased frequencies are supported by a range of attractive special offers for customers travelling to Salalah from points throughout Oman Air’s growing international network. The service was very well received by the festival’s discerning guests last year and we are certain it will be again, this year. How many of you watched the programme Parts Unknown – an American travel and food show on CNN that presented Oman recently? The Sultanate of Oman is being featured in many international media channels and as mentioned in one of the previous editions, Lonely Planet, the lexicon for modern day travellers, has ranked Oman in the top 10 countries to visit in 2017.
happiness be abounding in every home in France, the USA and beyond. Due to the consistent efforts of our staff and the appreciated service they provide, we are delighted to report that all aspects of our business are now seamlessly aligned in order for us to ‘Become the Best’. We are seeing continued success across a range of destinations we fly to including our 11 wonderful destinations in India, our new service to Guangzhou in China and most recently our newest UK destination, Manchester, which was launched on 1 May. Skytrax has appreciated our service once again by electing the staff of Oman Air being the best for the Middle East in 2016. Many thanks for choosing to fly with us. Many thanks as well for your great loyalty. We are privileged to serve you as our distinguished guest today and are looking forward to welcoming you back soon, again.
Paul Gregorowitsch Chief Executive Officer
July is a very special month for the Sultanate as the country celebrates its Renaissance Day on 23 July. We would like to wish all Omani citizens a very happy Renaissance Day and wish His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said our most sincere wishes for a long and happy life, in good health. Likewise, we wish our French guests a pleasant Bastille Day, and to our American guests, a fine Independence Day. Let peace and
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Navigation
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Diary
A wrap up of what festivals, events and sports are happening around the world this month
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Must-see Oman Al Tahery Cave
Check Out
A motorcycle odyssey in northern India
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Check In
Summertime bliss in Salalah
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Family Traveller
Palawan: The ‘Most Beautiful Island in the World’?
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Oman Adventure Extreme Sailing Series
Oman Heritage
Treasures from the National Museum: Portable wealth
Navigation
36 Oman Air’s inflight magazine is issued by : Corporate Communications & Media Department - Oman Air P.O. Box 58, Muscat International Airport, Postal Code 111, Sultanate of Oman, Tel: +968 24519616, Fax: +968 24510771, E-mail: wings@omanair.com, Website: www.omanair.com
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Landmark Travels
French-Omani sea splendour: Charente-Maritime
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Editorial Editing Director Paul Winter paul.winter@npaoman.com Mohammad Abu Al Majd Client Servicing Executive Ruwayda Al Barwani Designers Justindas Mohammad Asif Media Manager – Advertising & Marketing Vijay Murkute vijay@npaoman.com advertising@npaoman.com
Savvy Traveller Oman Travel Guide
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Photographic Contributors
Cover Image: Anas Al Dheeb Instagram: www.instagram.com/Anasaldheeb Facebook: www.facebook.com/Anas-Aldheeb Features: Must See Oman: Ali Mohammadi & OmanTripper (www.omantripper.com) Check Out: Getty Images/Shutterstock Check In: Getty Images/Shutterstock & Abdus Samad Hussain Siddiqui Family Traveller: Getty Images/Shutterstock Oman Adventure: Oman Sail/Extreme Sailing Series/Mark Lloyd Oman Heritage: National Museum of Oman/Saleh al-Ruzaqi Landmark travels: Grand Pavois La Rochelle (www.grand-pavois.com)/ HELICO JM & Stéphane MORAND-CMT Travel Guide: Shutterstock/Getty Network News & Welcome Aboard: Oman Air Marketing Communications In-flight Entertainment Guide: Global Eagle Entertainment/ www.geemedia.com (in association with Oman Air) Diary Images: Champakulam Boat Race: Getty Images Foodies Festival: www.foodiesfestival.com Dubai Summer Surprises: www.visitdubai.com Classics on Odeonsplatz: www.klassik-am-odeonsplatz.de (Michael Malfer) Allianz Cinema: www.allianzcinema.com Tour De France: Shutterstock NASS Festival: www.nassfestival.com Ironman European Championship: www.ap.ironman.com
Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification
Forest Stewardship Council
Oman Air News
Oman Air’s news and events
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Please recycle after use
The paper used for Wings of Oman Magazine is duly certified by the PEFC and FSC, and contains FSC mix pulp, FSC recycled pulp, FSC controlled wood pulp, and pre-consumer reclaimed papers. The PEFC is an international non-profit non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting good practice in the forest, throughout the entire forest supply chain, to ensure that timber and non-timber forest products are produced with respect for the highest ecological, social and ethical standards. The FSC is an international, non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world’s forests.
On Board
The publisher regrets that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Also…
In-flight Entertainment
Welcome Aboard
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Diary
Champakkulam Boat Race
More festivals around the world
Where: Alappuzha, Kerala, India When: 8 July What: Every year in July, the boat races of Kerala start with the renowned Champakkulam Moolam Vallam Kali festival (vallam kali means boat race). The festival takes place at Champakkulam, a small village in Kerala’s charming Alappuzha district. On the day of the race, locals and travellers flock to the river banks to see the brightly coloured Champakkulam snake boats, with their fascinating painted designs. Oman Air flies 14 times a week between Muscat/Kochi, 7 times a week between Muscat/Kozhikode, and 7 times a week between Muscat/Thiruvananthapuram
Foodies Festival Where: Tatton Park, near Manchester When: 14 – 16 July What: At this month’s Foodies Festival at Tatton Park, near Manchester, you can ‘Feast in the Street Food Avenue; learn to bake in the Cake and Bake Theatre; enjoy afternoon tea in the Vintage Tea Tent; taste wine and champagne in the Drinks Theatre; buy from local producers in the Artisan Market; listen to live music; enter the Chilli Eating Competition; and much more!’ say the organisers. Your kids can also enjoy the Children’s Cookery Theatre. Oman Air flies 7 times a week between Muscat/Manchester
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Haçienda Classical experimental orchestra (1 July, Manchester, England). Zanzibar International Film Festival (12 – 14 July, Zanzibar, Tanzania).
Cosmobeaute Beauty Trade Fair (17 – 20 July, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia).
Diary Dubai Summer Surprises Where: Dubai, UAE When: 1 July – 12 August What: Dubai Summer Surprises turns the hottest season into the coolest time of the year with all the malls, entertainment venues, theme parks and hotels dropping their prices and pumping out promotions. Dubai Summer Surprises is fun for the whole family, as regional and international visitors mingle with residents to enjoy all that Dubai has to offer. Oman Air flies 49 times a week between Muscat/Dubai
Classics on Odeonsplatz: Munich Classical Concert Where: Munich, Germany When: 15 – 16 July What: Without a doubt, Classics on Odeonsplatz is now established as Munich's finest classical open-air event, with outstanding classical music guaranteed at unusually modest prices. The event takes place on the nights of the 15th and 16th of this month and promises to be as spectacular as ever. Oman Air flies 7 times a week between Muscat/Munich
Allianz Cinema
More events around the world
Where: Zurich, Switzerland When: 20 July What: Every year this legendary outdoor cinema on Lake Zurich shows 30 films on a giant 300 metre-squared screen. It’s a must-see spectacle in Zurich. Plus there’s also great food and drink available during the event. Oman Air flies 5 times a week between Muscat/Zurich
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Bastille Day (14 July, Paris, France). Paris Open Air Cinema (20 July – 20 August, Paris, France).
Unite with Tomorrowland: Live broadcast (29 July, Dubai, UAE).
Diary Tour de France Where: Throughout France (including Germany) When: 1 – 23 July What: The 2017 Tour de France will be the 104th edition of cycling’s greatest road race. It will begin with an individual time trial in Düsseldorf (in Germany) on 1 July, and conclude with the Champs-Élysées stage in Paris on 23 July 2017. Spectators can expect 21 stages of racing, over a total distance of 3 540 kilometres – from the world’s fastest and fittest cyclists. Oman Air flies 5 times a week between Muscat/Paris
NASS Extreme Sports Festival
More sport around the world
Where: Bristol, England When: 6 – 9 July What: NASS is a weekend packed full of extreme sports, music and parties. There’s skating, BMXing, mountainbiking, street art, DJs, live music, and much more – all just under two hour’s drive west of London. Oman Air flies 14 times a week between Muscat/London
Wimbledon Tennis Championships (3 – 16 July, London, England).
Asian Youth Climbing Championships (5 – 9 July, Singapore).
Formula 1 British Grand Prix, Silverstone (14 – 16 July, Silverstone, England).
Ironman European Championship Where: Frankfurt, Germany When: 9 July What: The Ironman European Championship course in Frankfurt is one of the most spectator-dense courses on the circuit – with thousands of fans showing up each year to watch the elite Ironman athletes swim, cycle, and run through the course. It also boasts one of the most historical finish lines in the sport, ending in the heart of the old city. Oman Air flies 7 times a week between Muscat/ Frankfurt
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Must-see Oman
Al Tahery Cave
Latitude: 22° 51' 46" N Longitude: 59° 8' 25" E
Al Tahery Cave, in the Sharqiyah region of Oman, is one of the Sultanate’s lesser-known and more inaccessible sites. Getting there involves a taxing four-wheel-drive journey up into the mountains from the coastal town of Fins, followed by a demanding trek over steep, rocky terrain. Once you arrive however, the sight of the cave’s enormous entranceway (followed by your explorations of Al Tahery’s fascinating underground features) make all the effort worthwhile. (Photography by Ali Mohammadi). • The cave entrance itself features an enormous circular archway, which opens up into a giant cavern. It then narrows as you make your way further into its depths and eventually reaches a point where, in order to explore further, you’ll need specialized equipment and training.
• A standard exploration of the cave will lead you to the so-called ‘last wall’. From here on, you’ll need specialized equipment and training to be able to explore ‘beyond the wall’ and deeper into the cave system. • Later, on your return from the depths of the cave, you can spend what will be an unforgettable night camping under Al Tahery’s gigantic entrance way, reminiscing about the day’s adventures, and then wake up the next morning for the return trek back to your base camp and vehicle.
• A trek to Al Tahery is challenging, but it can nevertheless easily be done by reasonably in-shape individuals – with a bit of huffing and puffing over the steep sections along the way! ‘Amazing! That is probably the first word coming to your mind when you first see the entrance to Al Tahery cave after a hard trek. It is a stunning cave that is accessible only by foot, and highly recommended for adventure lovers visiting Oman!’ says OmanTripper guide, Ali Mohammadi.
• Of course, the entire trip provides some excellent opportunities for photographs, so come well prepared with your camera gear! • Before you go, your guide can provide you with a list of equipment that you’ll need for a successful trip – like a good pair of hiking boots or trail shoes, sleeping bag, hiking poles, and backpack.
• With the above point in mind, Al Tahery Cave is best explored along with an experienced guide who knows the area well, or one of the handful of Oman-based adventure guiding companies that offer trekking outings to the cave. • A typical trip starts on a Thursday evening where you and your team will camp overnight at one of the local mountain villages in the region.
Visitor Information Due to its inaccessible location, Al Tahery Cave is best explored with experienced Oman-based guides, such as OmanTripper (www.omantripper.com) who can organize trekking outings to the cave as well as overnight camping trips where you’ll spend the night sleeping just inside the gigantic entrance to the cave.
• The next day, after a quick breakfast, you’ll spend the morning trekking up to the mountain plateau where the cave is located, and then finally, to the spectacular entrance of the cave itself. • After resting for a while, you and your guide will descend into the depths of the cave to discover its many secrets, and fascinating features.
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Check Out
Even with minimal riding experience, a motorcycle odyssey around northern India is now possible
A motorcycle odyssey in northern India
A motorcycle journey through the mountains and rocky deserts of northern India has always been an adventuretravel classic. These days, the good news is that even with basic riding skills, and little in the way of touring experience, a motorcycle odyssey like this can become a reality. 16
Check Out Northern India, of course, is a vast place, and a motorcycle adventure in the region could take many different forms. While many experienced individuals and teams of riders have, and continue to do some spectacular rides all around India in the ‘selfdrive’ style (taking full responsibility for their route planning, bike maintenance, food, and camping supplies themselves), first-time motorcycle tourists can, with little experience, do a trip like this with one of the many motorcycle touring companies that operate in the region – who’ll take care of all the required logistics and planning.
Grab some friends, head to northern India, hop on your motorcycles, and ride off on an adventure of a lifetime!
These tours combine the pleasure of motorbike travel, the discovery of offbeat destinations, and the human adventure you seek – all in complete safety, explains the touring company Vintage Rides, who offer various tours around northern India on the legendary vintage-design Royal Enfield bikes. There are dozens of routes and regions to explore, but here are three classics from well-known motorcycle tour companies…
a first unforgettable pass, Rohtang La, at 3 900 metres, and which seems like a passage between two worlds – from verdant, mainly Hindu valleys to desert-like high plateau where the Tibetan Buddhist culture is in clear evidence. In this land of passes, you will cross bewitching lunar landscapes, only encountering nomadic goat and yak herders. This a physical challenge for adventurers
The Trans-Himalayan: The ‘Trans-Himalayan’ trip is hosted by Vintage Rides, and is an intense Himalayan motorcycle trip on challenging trails that lead to Ladakh, perched at several thousand metres altitude amid stunning, unspoiled scenery. ‘The ManaliLeh Highway, also known as the Trans-Himalayan, is definitely the most beautiful motorbike raid in India,' the company explains. ‘Your target is Khardung La, the world’s highest motorable pass at 5 602 metres above sea level. Prepare for an extreme expedition on the edge of beyond! Straddling your Royal Enfield, you’ll cross
‘The Trans-Himalayan ride follows the trails that lead to Ladakh, perched high up in the Himalayas, amid stunning, unspoiled scenery’
Riders take a break on India’s famous Manali-Leh highway
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Check Out The legendary Royal Enfield bikes have been ridden in the region for over 60 years
seeking the ultimate, and who will join the club of Himalayan motorcycling devotees.’ Tour of Rajasthan: The touring company Ride of my Life offers a 12-day ‘Tour of Rajasthan’ through the ancient kingdoms, wildlife parks and desert wilderness of the Indian State of Rajasthan.
'Perhaps no other place in India has a history as rich and colourful as Rajasthan, and you can experience its true essence on multiple-day rides through the state' Northern India will seduce riders with its tough but rewarding landscapes, and some of the highest roads in the world
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Check Out ‘Perhaps no other place in India has a history as rich and colourful as Rajasthan, and this ride allows you to experience its true essence in twelve days. It is a mix of history, myth, wildlife safaris and of course riding through arid landscapes while avoiding the busy highways as much as possible.’
It’s often said that for the first-time traveller to India, the country’s gigantic size and diversity of terrain, and its vast depth of both modern and ancient culture, heritage – and spirituality – all make it a tricky place to start exploring, simply because the question has to be asked when planning a trip – ‘Where do I start!’
Ride of my Life also offer multiple-day rides around many of northern India’s Himalayan regions, and explain that the area’s unsurpassed beauty demands that there be nothing between you and the landscape. ‘It will seduce everyone with her tough but rewarding landscapes and the highest roads in the world,’ they say.
If you’re in any doubt, we suggest grabbing some friends, heading to northern India, hopping on your motorcycles, and riding off into what is guaranteed to be an adventure of a lifetime!
Himalayan Odyssey: Every year, the famous Royal Enfield motorcycle manufacturer hosts what is a spectacular 18-day, guided adventure ride named the ‘Himalayan Odyssey’, which traverses just over 2 200 kilometres of high mountainous terrain, desert, and forest region in northern India. Now, this month, from the 6th to 23rd of July, the 14th edition of the ride flags off in New Delhi with a men’s and women’s ride, and continues the tradition of what has been over 60 years of riding Royal Enfield motorcycles in the region. After heading out from Delhi, the riders make their way through a series of destinations and towns high up in the Himalayas – such as the Leh, Hunder, Kaza, and Debring – before returning via a circular route back to New Delhi. Of course, the Himalayan Odyssey is done on the legendary Royal Enfield motorcycles, which are arguably the very best touring motorcycle for local conditions.
Northern India: Travel Info In northern India, Oman Air flies: 15 times a week between Muscat/New Delhi, and 7 times a week between Muscat/Jaipur. Travel Info: Visit www.incredibleindia.org for more on what to experience in northern India. Currency: The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency of India. One Rupee is made up of 100 Paisa. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 2 000 Rupees. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 Rupees. 1 Indian Rupee (INR) = 0.0060 Omani Rial (OMR) 1 Indian Rupee (INR) = 0.0016 United States Dollar (USD) (June 2017)
Riders explore Ladakh, in the magnificent northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir
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Check In
Summertime bliss in Salalah In the Dhofar Governorate in Oman’s southern region, and in the coastal city of Salalah, the summer months between June and September mark two very special occasions. The first is the onset of the blissfully cool and wet weather of the Khareef season, and the lush green vegetation that accompanies it. The second is the occasion of the much-loved Salalah Tourism Festival. If you’re in the Sultanate during summer, these are two things you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on. it is at this time of the year that the region of southern Oman experiences temperatures in the blissfully cool lowtwenties (degrees Celsius), as well as constant mist and light rain.
From June to September every year, Dhofar and its coastal city of Salalah are exposed directly to the monsoon winds that originate in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. These result in what is known locally as the Khareef season, and
Dhofar’s lush green hills during summer
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Check In
‘Due to the constant light rain and tropical-like conditions of the Khareef, the hills and mountains of the entire region seem to magically come alive with brilliant green foliage and colourful wild flowers’
Don't miss out on Dhofar during summer
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Check In
During the Khareef season, Salalah and Dhofar seem to magically come alive with brilliant green foliage - much to the delight of the local animal population!
Along with many Oman-based families that make their way to Dhofar during this time, the region also becomes a sanctuary for residents of neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE, who are keen to escape their own region’s summer heat.
hour’s drive west of Salalah, is another popular destination to visit during the Khareef. The beach is best enjoyed during the winter months, when the sea is calmer, but during summer, the great attraction here are the Al Marneef blowholes. Due to the giant waves surging onto the coastline at this time of year, and the funneling action of the holes and crevasses in the rocky shoreline, giant plumes of water are forced up to a height of 20 metres and more into the air.
Due to the constant light rain and tropical-like conditions, the hills and mountains of the entire region seem to magically come alive with brilliant green foliage and colourful wild flowers. And, there are several very special places near Salalah itself where this great natural phenomenon can be witnessed…
‘The Salalah Tourism Festival features the very best in Dhofari and Omani culture and heritage, and is a meeting place for visitors and families from all over the Gulf and the Middle East’
At Wadi Darbat, which is an easy hour’s drive east of Salalah, there are a series of waterfalls and rock pools which overflow during the Khareef, due to the constant rain, and provide a spectacular world of water and greenery to explore (and photograph). The long, sandy stretch of Al Mughsayl beach with its Al Marneef cave formation, which can be accessed via an
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Check In Then, also in the region is Jabal Samhan – the highest point in
atmosphere that accompanies it, especially at events like the
Dhofar at 1 821 metres above sea level – which makes for a
Salalah Tourism Festival.
memorable day trip with some spectacular views, especially if you can make the trip up here on one of the clearer days in summer.
Salalah Tourism Festival
At Khawr Rawri, which is located just outside the coastal town
The forever popular Salalah Tourism Festival also kicks off at this time of year. It’s a festival of the very best in Dhofari and Omani culture and heritage, and a meeting place for visitors and families from all over the Gulf and the Middle East.
of Taqah, near Salalah, you can explore the ancient ruins of what was once an important port for the trade of frankincense. It is also a coastal wetland area which, during the wet Khareef season, is a birdwatchers’ haven.
At the festival grounds, there’s delicious Omani cuisine and sweet delicacies to be had, while you revel in everything on display – like colourful Omani and Dhofari dance performances; live, traditional music and poetry readings; and beautiful craft items like baskets, pottery, silver jewellery, and woven rugs on sale. Along with many other special events, there’s also regular firework displays held on festival nights. If you’re in the Sultanate during summer, it’s an event you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Also, during the Khareef, Salalah’s famous Souq Al Haffa becomes a bustling centre for locals and visitors keen to bargain for the best frankincense and other Omani treasures. But the entire region of southern Oman is a fascinating place to be during the Khareef – both for the blissfully cool, wet weather and lush green vegetation; as well as the festive, joyful
Tropical treats: Fruits and vegetables for sale around Salalah
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Check In
This year’s Salalah Tourism Festival began late last month on 30 June, and is set to run until 31 August. For more information on the festival, and what you can experience during the Khareef season, visit the official Dhofar Municipality page at www.dm.gov. om or go to www. omantourism.gov.om
Wadi Darbat – an easy hour’s drive east of Salalah
The famous Al Marneef blowholes, next to Al Mughsayl beach
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Family Traveller
Palawan: The ‘Most Beautiful Island in the World’? Admittedly, there are probably hundreds of ‘Most beautiful islands in the world’ dotted around our planet, and we’d need many years to explore them all. But the island of Palawan, in the central-western region of the Philippines archipelago, would be an excellent place to start – especially since it is easily accessible from the country’s capital, Manila. 28
Family Traveller Secondly, your family can don your dive masks, snorkels, and fins, and head out on a snorkelling or scuba diving trip to Coron Bay – which is well-known for its spectacular wreck diving, in water that often has up to 20 metres of visibility. Thirdly, you can take the family on an exploration of Palawan’s El Nido Marine Reserve, which is on the northern tip of the island. The region is made up of dozens of smaller islands and islets – as well as crystal clear blue waters, white-sand beaches, charming fishing villages and their colourful fishing boats dotted around the coastline, and dozens of vividgreen-jungle covered limestone sea-cliffs that rise straight up out of the ocean. There’s also a huge diversity of marine life just offshore, including the very special manta rays, dugongs (‘sea cows’), and turtles. Fourth – perhaps one of best ways you and your kids can explore Palawan’s coastline and marine life is by sea-kayak or stand-up paddle board, both of which can be hired at various destinations around the island. Kayaking and ‘SUPing’ are also fun ways to go island hopping around Palawan’s many small islets and rocky outcrops just offshore. Finally, besides the above, Palawan has mountain-biking, trekking, rock-climbing, In fact, Palawan island has literally been voted as a ‘best’ or ‘most beautiful’ island many times in the last few years by prestigious travel guides and magazines like Travel + Leisure magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and National Geographic Traveler. But – you’ll have to go there to experience just exactly why for yourself! Here are some classic Palawan adventures to keep in mind, when you do. First off, you and your family can explore Palawan’s legendary Puerto Princesa’s Underground River, which consists of an 8.2 kilometre long subterranean river system that flows directly into the sea. The river is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can take yourself on a subterranean trip of a lifetime with one of the guided paddle boat excursions that operate in the region.
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‘You and your family can explore Palawan’s legendary Puerto Princesa’s Underground River, which consists of an 8.2 kilometre long subterranean river system that flows directly into the sea’
Family Traveller
cultural tours, spectacular beaches to explore, and much more. And once you’ve done it all, there’s the island’s legendary freshly grilled seafood dishes awaiting you at the many formal and informal eateries and restaurants dotted around the island. You’re guaranteed to have a good time in what you might very well think is the most beautiful island in the world.
You can find out more about Palawan and its northern region of El Nido at the Philippines’ official tourism site, www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com
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Oman Adventure
Extreme Sailing Series: Highs and lows for Team Oman Air Just a quarter of the way into the Extreme Sailing Series season, and the crew of Team Oman Air have already experienced the highs and lows which are so much a part of this intense, global racing circuit.
After two events – or ‘Acts’ as they are called – and with six more to go, the experienced Oman Air squad have had their share of setbacks. But the lows have seen lessons learned, and the highs have shown they have what it takes to win in the ultra-competitive world of high-speed GC32 catamaran racing. The team are currently sitting in third place overall, just a point behind arch-rivals the Danish SAP Extreme Sailing Team and three points off the top spot, currently occupied by the Swiss reigning champions, Alinghi. The team had a solid start to the campaign, particularly as they had welcomed a new helm and skipper to the boat – World Match Racing Tour champion Phil Robertson. Extreme Sailing Series veteran and Oman Air tactician Pete Greenhalgh explains, “We felt that the start of the season was going to be a bit of a learning experience, with the team taking time to gel.” But it did not turn out that way. As a pre-campaign warm-up Team Oman Air took part in the first ever GC32 Championship, which saw crews of the super-fast foiling catamarans converge on Muscat. Greenhalgh picks up the story: “As it happened we put together a great event and actually won. The championship was then closely followed by the first Act of the Extreme Sailing Series which was also in Oman. “We finished third there and came away with a few lessons learned and a plan to go into the second Act in China strong.”
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Oman Adventure However, preparations for the Qingdao event were disrupted by a capsize in training, and Robertson was hit by a bad case of the flu. Nevertheless, a sensational comeback on the final day in Qingdao saw Oman Air win three races, including the crucial double-point finale. At the beginning of this month, the next stop for Oman Air and the Extreme Sailing Series is Madeira, where Greenhalgh and Robertson will reunite with the core crew of Omani bowman Nasser Al Mashari, James Wierzbowski and Ed Smyth. Like Qingdao, the race area off Funchal, in Madiera, is likely to offer testing, light wind conditions, but the whole crew is looking forward to the opportunity to put pressure on the series leaders. As Greenhalgh says, “We are confident looking ahead to the rest of the season. Together we will achieve a lot.�
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Oman Heritage
Treasures from the National Museum: Portable wealth In days gone by in Oman, jewellery served as a kind of portable bank account for Bedouin women. It was worn continuously, and exchanged for goods or services in times of need. The National Museum’s Director-General, Jamal al-Moosawi, as well as the Museum’s Head of Curatorial Unit, Moza al-Wardi, tell us more about this fascinating part of Oman’s heritage and culture. (With photography by Saleh al-Ruzaqi/The National Museum). Prior to the modern era, travelling was a way of life for Oman’s Bedouin communities. Households moved in accordance with patterns of seasonal rainfall, seeking out the best pasturage for their herds or relocating to well sites in times of drought. For Bedouin women, jewellery served as a portable bank account, to be worn continuously and exchanged for goods or services in times of need. In the 19th and 20th centuries CE, the silver used for jewellerymaking was obtained mainly by melting down Maria Theresa thaler coins, which had a high silver content and functioned as a region-wide trade currency. Thalers and other silver coins, such as Saudi rials and Indian rupees, were also fashioned into pendants for Omani necklaces. Necklace with central disc (samt) and Maria Theresa thalers, East African Shillings and Indian rupees Origin: Northern Oman Materials: Silver and coral Period: 13th c AH/19th c CE (al-Busaid Dynasty) Description: The coins on this necklace are representative of three continents; Europe, Africa and Asia. There are three Maria Theresa thalers with the frozen date of 1780, two East African shillings dated 1367−68 AH/1948 CE and 1953 CE/1372−73 AH, and three Indian rupees dated 1331−32 AH/1913 CE, 1332−33 AH/1914 CE and 1334−35 AH/1916 CE. The shillings feature King George VI and the rupees feature King George V.
Cylindrical Qur’an case (hirz) necklace with Maria Theresa thaler coins Origin: Northern Oman Materials: Silver and gold leaf Period: 14th c AH/20th c CE (al-Busaid Dynasty) Description: Maria Theresa thaler coins, minted in Austro-Hungarian Empire from 1153−54 AH/1741 CE, had a high silver content and functioned as a trade currency throughout the Middle East and Africa until the 14th c AH/mid 20th c CE. Thalers also served as the primary source of silver material for Omani jewellery and were often fashioned into pendants for Omani necklaces. The coins on this necklace are stamped with gold leaf, a trend tied to the increasing affluence of the 14th c AH/20th c CE.
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The National Museum: Visitor Information Telephone: (+968) 22081500 Facebook: NationalMuseumOman Twitter: NM_OMAN Instagram: NM_OMAN E-mail: booking@nm.gov.om The National Museum is open daily from 10:00am – 5:00pm (except on Fridays 2:00pm – 6:00pm). These timings are effective from the 1st of May until the 31st of December 2017. The ticket desk closes half an hour before the Museum’s closing times.
Landmark Travels
Sultanate of Oman: All set for the Grand Pavois boat show Created in 1973, France’s Grand Pavois International Boat Show has become one of the major events in the sailing and maritime world. This year, the event is once again set to take place in the coastal town of La Rochelle, in the beautiful Charente-Maritime region on France’s south-west coastline, from 27 September to 2 October. And, for the very first time, the Grand Pavois will welcome the Sultanate of Oman as the event’s very special Guest of Honour country. “It is a real honour and joy to welcome the Sultanate of Oman as a guest of honor in 2017,” explains Alain Pochon, the President of Grand Pavois La Rochelle. “Its 5 000 years of history has created rich cultural, human and architectural styles, within amazing landscapes of extreme diversity and beauty. The sea is obviously omnipresent in the Sultanate of Oman with over 3 000 kilometers of coastline and sailing, with Oman Sail, is one of the privileged axes of communication of this country.” “We are convinced that the Sultanate of Oman will stimulate the curiosity of our 85 000 expected visitors and we already know that the hall reserved for them is going to be one of the essential spaces of our 2017 edition,” Pochon adds. “We also think that the nautical world will be extremely interested in Oman, which is attracting a growing interest and developing a responsible tourism.” The boat show itself is set to be spectacular. The event will feature around 10 000 square metres of exhibition space, a huge range of themed sailing and water sports areas, an estimated 750 boats on show (including 300 in the water), and a total of over 800 international sailing and boating industry exhibitors from all corners of the world. Of course, a highlight in 2017 will be the 700 square-metre Oman pavilion, which is set to showcase the beauty of the Sultanate’s natural landscapes,
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Landmark Travels its links with the country’s maritime activities for hundreds of years. This has seen the area developing over many hundreds of years into a land that is now rich in heritage and culture, and a dream destination for travellers.
His Excellency Ahmed bin Nasser Al Mahrizi: Oman Minister of Tourism
It’s a land of medieval castles and charming, old architecture; delicious food and a fascinating culture of cuisine; colourful fishing boats; old lighthouses and harbours; as well as a delightful range of museums, galleries, antique shops, and much more – and it is all surrounded by extensive farmlands and wilderness areas. It is also the location of the Port de Plaisance des Minimes, which is the largest marina in France for pleasure boats. With all this on offer; after the 2017 Grand Pavois boat show, you might just want to remain here for a very long time!
Alain Pochon: President of Grand Pavois La Rochelle
and the rich and fascinating cultural heritage of the people of Oman. The pavilion will be led by the Ministry of Tourism with the help of its partners such as Oman Sail, Oman Air and many others. The pavilion will also celebrate Oman’s history of maritime trade and exploration, and its great boatbuilding tradition. The Sultanate of Oman’s Minister of Tourism, His Excellency Ahmed bin Nasser Al Mahrizi, said of Oman’s representation at the event, “The Omani-French relationships have been always strong in various fields and across different stages of the history. Choosing the Sultanate to be the guest of honour in this year’s edition of the show in La Rochelle affirms the appreciation and the importance of the Sultanate’s maritime history, its geographical location, as well as its navigation and tourism status in the Middle East.” He added that, “Participating in this specialized exhibition – which is well-known in the tourism market – provides us with an important and unique opportunity to present the Sultanate of Oman on key platforms, such as the marine tourism sector and its services and activities in the Sultanate; and especially our open seas, coastlines, and beaches, which are key tourism elements. Along with this, we have the opportunity to communicate directly with the international media channels that will be participating at the show.”
The 2017 edition of the Grand Pavois La Rochelle takes place from 27 September to 2 October in La Rochelle – the coastal city and capital of the Charentes-Maritime region, in southwest France. To find out more about the Grand Pavois La Rochelle 2017, visit www.grand-pavois.com
Travel time: La Rochelle and the Charente-Maritime The historic port city of La Rochelle, together with the CharenteMaritime region on France’s Atlantic seaboard, has been famous for
Also, for the latest on Oman, go to: www.omantourism.gov.om, www.omantourisme.com www.omanair.com, www.omansail.com
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Travel Guide
Savvy Traveller The Sultanate of Oman is on the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates in the northwest, Saudi Arabia in the west and Yemen in the southwest. It also has two enclaves – the Musandam Peninsula and Madha – which are separated by the UAE. Oman’s 3 165 kilometre coastline spans the Gulf of Oman in the north and the Sea of Oman (which forms part of the Arabian Sea) in the east.
For the traveller, the Sultanate of Oman has a large variety of experiences:
There are currently four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Sultanate of Oman
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
• Aflaj Irrigation Systems • Archaeological Sites of Bat
A wide variety of pristine beaches and islands Spectacular mountains, canyons and wadis World class diving, snorkelling, and other water sports Turtle, dolphin and whale watching Wildlife tours in the Sultanate’s nature reserves and biodiversity spots Cultural sites including forts, ancient tombs and prehistoric cities Desert safaris and adventures A large variety of markets and souqs Museums and art galleries Trekking, rock climbing and caving adventures Horse and camel racing events Golf courses Various festivals, including the popular Muscat Festival and Salalah Festival.
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• Frankincense Trail • Bahla Fort
Sultanate of Oman: Fact Sheet Area : 3 09 500 km2 Population : 4 568 003 (2 094 616 expatriates) (2017) Language : Arabic (official) English (widely spoken) Capital : Muscat Local Time : GMT +4 Currency : Omani Rial, which equates to US$ 2.58
Travel Guide
Currency
The local currency is the Omani Rial (referred to as RO or OR or OMR). It is further divided into 1000 Baizas. Currency denominations are available in 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 Rial and 500 and 100 Baiza notes. Coins are available in 50, 25, 10 and 5 Baizas.
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Welcome Aboard
Experience Oman Air’s Award-winning Services Welcome aboard! Oman Air is committed to providing you with a safe, reliable and seamless flying experience – enhanced by warm and friendly customer service.
Book and Check-In Online
Oman Air offers an interactive online booking check-in facility for convenient, stressfree airport checkins. The check-in facility is available for departures from Muscat International Airport, as well as a selection of airports on the worldwide Oman Air network. Online check-in is available between 24 hours and 90 minutes before your departure time.
Exclusive First Class and Business Class Check-In
With its own entrance and sumptuous lounge area, dedicated staff, and fast-track security clearance and baggage drop, the First Class and Business Class Check-In service provides an ideal introduction to Oman Air’s extremely high standards of service. These facilities set the tone of refined elegance and luxury which stays with the traveller throughout their journey.
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Welcome Aboard
In-flight Connectivity
Whichever cabin you are travelling in, you can send SMS or make calls to your friends, family or colleagues with our OnAir mobile services. Log-on and check emails, surf the web and update your social media with Oman Air’s WY-Fi internet services. And our greatvalue, flexible pricing means that you can chose the level of connectivity you want whenever you fly on our Airbus A330 or Boeing 787 fully connected flights.
Chauffeur Services Oman Air offers premium travellers a host of distinctive services that will enhance their travel experience. First and Business Class passengers can now take advantage of our complimentary Chauffeur Drive airport transfer service at select destinations across our network. With an attentive service that comes with a personal chauffeur, luxury vehicles and speedy door-todoor transfers, you can now travel in comfort and style with Oman Air.
In-flight Entertainment
Sit back and enjoy your journey in comfort, with a great range of the latest Arabic and international movies, up-to-the-minute TV shows, including satellite TV news, as well as music and games – all at your fingertips, and all on demand.
Oman Air Lounges If you want to experience the privileges of Oman Air’s famous standards of superior comfort and indulge yourself in a relaxing experience before you travel, enjoy a hearty meal, or simply unwind, our lounges ensure a relaxing start to your journey that reflects the outstanding Omani hospitality you will enjoy aboard our aircraft, all whilst preserving key elements of our deeprooted culture and heritage. Relax in our First and Business Class Lounges’ elegant environment and enjoy the very best in hospitality and service as you prepare for your flight. Our Bangkok lounge is designed for customers travelling in First or Business Class, and for those holding Gold and Silver Sindbad cards, and can be used and enjoyed at a minor cost. The Majan Lounge is open to Premium customers travelling on airlines operating from Muscat International Airport and for Oman Air passengers holding Gold and Silver Sindbad membership who are travelling in Economy Class, and can be used and enjoyed at a minor cost. Each lounge also has an experienced and professional team of customer service staff on hand to look after you before you board your flight.
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Oman Air News
Oman Air sponsors six employees to perform Hajj Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has announced the names of six employees who will be receiving the airline’s assistance to perform this year’s Hajj. This draw, granting staff the opportunity to visit the Holy City of Mecca and to perform Hajj is in recognition of the hard work and dedication of staff, who have assisted Oman Air in achieving
its remarkable progress. In the presence of Abdulrahman Al Busaidy, Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer, Asma Al Ghabshi, Executive Vice President Human Resources, and a number of involved staff, the names of the employees to be sponsored by the Company to perform Hajj (pilgrimage) this year were drawn.
Oman Air rewards top performing travel agent from Q1 Oman Air has announced the first winner of its new incentive scheme for travel agents in Oman. Mr. Sumith K.P. of Travel City travel agency was rewarded with a Mini Cooper in recognition of his excellent sales in the first quarter of 2017. The car was presented to Mr. Sumith K.P. by Oman Air CEO Paul Gregorowitsch.
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On Board
In-flight Entertainment Welcome to the world of In-flight Entertainment on Oman Air. Sit back, relax and travel in comfort with a specially curated selection of Western, Arabic and International movies, television and music - all to be enjoyed at your fingertips.
Movies Hollywood
Kong: Skull Island
The Boss Baby
Experience the next chapter of the King Kong franchise in Kong: Skull Island, an action-packed thriller featuring human counterparts Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, and Samuel L. Jackson. Director Jordan VogtRoberts took stylistic influences from Vietnam War classic Apocalypse Now and South Korean film The Host to create this masterpiece full of monsters and mayhem.
Alec Baldwin stars as the Boss Baby, a suit-sporting, briefcase-toting infant who has charmed audiences the world over. Joined by Tobey Maguire (Spider-Man), Lisa Kudrow (Friends), Steve Buscemi (Fargo), and introducing Miles Bakshi, Baldwin leads us on a hilarious adventure that has already received over $460 million at the box office!
Chips
Gifted
Sleepless
Their Finest *Entertainment Programme varies by aircraft type
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On Board Movies Hollywood Back by Popular Demand
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
BOX OFFICE FAVOURITES
127 Hours
Beauty and the Beast
Chicago
Fist Fight
Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Harry and Snowman
Interstellar
John Wick: Chapter 2
MODERN CLASSICS
Inception
The Grand Budapest Hotel
Australia
Personal Shopper
Bride Wars
Silence
Dangerous Liaisons
Split
Driving Miss Daisy
Table 19
Edward Scissorhands
The Founder
Hairspray
The Last Word
Heat I Heart Huckabees In Her Shoes
Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked
Whiplash
And many more... Please see the on-screen guide for your full entertainment line-up
The Lego Batman Movie Worlds Apart SILVER SCREEN CLASSICS
KIDS
The Maze Runner
Logan
Anastasia (1956) Casablanca
Hugo
Key Largo
Ice Age: Collision Course
The Seven Year Itch (1955)
Movies International Love and friendship are tested in this popular movie phenomenon that has made its place in the coveted 100-crore ($15 million) club. The film boasts a dynamic soundtrack, engaging visuals, and a stunning ensemble cast including former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, fourth-generation Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, and model-actress Anushka Sharma.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
Mein Blind Date Mit Dem Leben You might have missed this gem of a movie in theaters, but Guppy will be sure to entertain you just like any other box office hit. Winner of 5 awards at the 2016 Kerala State Film Awards, this touching, honest piece delivered by Tovino Thomas and Chethan Jayalal infuses its seaside story with vivid characters and beautiful screenplay.
Guppy
BOLLYWOOD NEW Force 2 Shivaay
SINHALA Raja Mamai Ulath eki pilath eki
BOLLYWOOD CLASSIC Bajrangi Bhaijaan The Lunchbox
FRENCH Demain Tout Commence Lost in Paris
BENGALI Bhalobasha Emon E Hoy Ek Cup Cha
GERMAN Conni & Co Vampire Sisters 3
KANNADA Kotigobba 2 Mukunda Murari
ITALIAN Babylon Sisters Mister Felicità INDONESIAN Ada Apa Dengan Cinta 2 Super Didi
MALAYALAM Kavi Uddheshichathu..? Pulimurugan MARATHI One Way Ticket Sairat TAMIL Iraivi Run
Rain was Falling
And many more... Please see the on-screen guide for your full entertainment line-up
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TELUGU Attarintiki Daredi Majnu URDU Bachaana Sultanat
CHINESE Funny Soccer I Belonged To You THAI Deadstock Suddenly Twenty KOREAN The Last Princess Unconfessional NIGERIAN Damaged Petals Meet the In-Laws PERSIAN Born In 1987 Breath
On Board TV Western
Westworld
KIDS Sesame Street The Tom and Jerry Show
BUSINESS Big Problems.Big Thinkers
LIFESTYLE Access Middle East
Doing Business in Oman
Inside British Vogue
BOX SET The Fall
Prison Break
Top Gear
Two brothers face the ultimate government conspiracy in Prison Break, the 2006 People’s Choice Award winner for Favorite New Television Drama. Suspense, action, and drama await in this entertaining and fast-moving series, which is helmed by Wentworth Miller and Dominic Purcell.
New season, new guests, and new vehicles bring this ever-popular series to its 24th season, hosted by actor Matt LeBlanc, Rory Reid, and Chris Harris. As the trio of immediately likable, playfully hilarious dudes take on the world of cars, stay for the great stories and be dazzled by the classic BBC-style videography.
COMEDY Brooklyn Nine-Nine Last Man Standing
And many more... Please see the on-screen guide for your full entertainment line-up
The Chef’s Line MUSIC & ARTS Eames: The Architect & The Painter
A Day in Lego
Smart Secrets Of Great Paintings
Science of Stupid
SPORT Premier League Classic Matches
DISCOVERY CHANNEL Mighty Trains Playhouse Masters Project Grizzly Through The Wormhole With Morgan Freeman
House of Cards
2 Dudes & A Kitchen
Siba’s Table
Bright Lights: Starring Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds
DOCUMENTARY
DRAMA
The Last Man on Earth
Passion for Fashion
Premier League Legends Sporting Heroes The Outdoor Sports Show 2017 TRAVEL Flavors of Punjab Culinary Heights at Ikarus Panoramas
Legion
The Travel Show
Lethal Weapon
This Wild Life
TV International HINDI Koffee with Karan The Kapil Sharma Show
MARATHI Aamhi Saare Khavvaye Chala Hawa Yeu Dya
KANNADA Chinnara Chillipilli
TAGALOG Sports U The Greatest Love
Naati Mane Punch Kajjaya TELUGU Telugu Comedy Clips
Facetime
Sarabhai vs Sarabhai Inspector Dupin
Tips and Tidbits TAMIL Pudhu Padam Eppadi Irukku Sunday Galatta MALAYALAM Badai Bungalow Malayalam Comedy Clips BENGALI Didi No.1 Rannaghar
Romanzo criminale - Barbra Streisand La serie Becoming an Icon
Gandang Gabi Vice (GGV)
And many more... Please see the on-screen guide for your full entertainment line-up
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URDU Dairh Hoshiyar Tonite with HSY
CHINESE 2017 Super Star Chef Nic S3 INDONESIAN Chef’s Table Kelas International KOREAN Brainiacs Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo TURKISH Çok Güzel Hareketler Bunlar Güldür Güldür Show GERMAN Another Kind of Light Homicide Hills ITALIAN 1992 Gomorrah FRENCH Chanel N°5 Legend Louis XV - Secrets of Monte Carlo
On Board Audio Western Mallory Knox
Benny Benassi
Miranda Lambert
Vancouver Sleep Clinic
Wired
The Weight of These Wings
Danceaholic
Revival
NEeMA Harry Nilsson
Watching You Think
Nilsson Schmilsson
Kasabian P!nk
Velociraptor!
Greatest Hits…So Far!!!
Griefjoy Nadia Rose
Godspeed
Highly Flammable
Dennis Wilson
Tom Odell
Lea Michele
Pacific Ocean Blue & Bambu
Wrong Crowd
Places
And many more... Please see the on-screen guide for your full entertainment line-up
Audio International Asha Bhosle MasterWorks
Various Artists
Best of Bollywood: Always in Love
Various Artists
Best of Bollywood: Easy Folk
Kalyanji
Kalaakaar
Various Artists
Summer Acoustic
Various Artists
Suchitra Krishnamurthy David Civera
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Oohalu
15 Aniversario
Vairamuthu MasterWorks
Various Artists Teri Sajni
And many more... Please see the on-screen guide for your full entertainment line-up
Various Artists Awaara
Guang Ze Guang Ze
Niko Sun Geminiko
Hayabusa
Hayabusa First Album
Mika Nakashima Tough
HYUKOH 23
Antonio Lizana De Viento
Radio Western & International WESTERN
INTERNATIONAL Oman Unlimited
Malayalam Chart Busters
Maestro Fatafati Hits
Cool Jazz Golden Oldies
H!TO Japan
Melodica
Easy Listening
London Calling
Chennai Parade
Bollywood Masala
Hipster Party
Gaon Countdown Africana Beatz
Top Hitz Sufi For The Soul
The Beat Eurosonic
Urban Vibes
Sinhalese Mix
Mando Blitz
Tollywood Tadka 47