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Inside

Platinum Club

Trailblazer CrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me 10 Top Destinations for 2011 feature some of the most exciting cities and places to visit this summer. Switzerland, Jordan, Germany, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Greece, Hungary, Paris, Vienna, Venice and Disneyland top our summer break list

Business and Finance

Economy Natural calamities shake the world economy just as political upheavals do. A look at the problems facing some of the main economies of the world following the recent natural disasters

Automobilia

Drive BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo combines the characteristics of a luxury sedan with that of an SAV and thus enters a new niche in the automobile industry

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First Look The all new Audi7 delivers hatchback practicality at its most attractive. Recently launched in the Oman market, the car has received rave reviews from auto critics

Art and Design

Impressions Artistic, ambitious and extremely talented is what best describes this young sculptress. Domenica De Ferranti was in town to soak in the Omani culture and life and transform it into spectacular pieces of art

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Canvas Between 2 Lines was a scintillating art show held last month which showcased the works of the famed MF Husain and his son Owais Husain. Their art received rave reviews from the art fraternity of Oman

Dining & Gourmet

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Ambrosia Oysters have captured the fancy of food lovers, royalty and romantics through centuries. A look at how this

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delicacy has gone to become one of the prized foods of all times

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Travel & Lifestyle

Focus Golf World is a dream come true for golf connoisseurs … this one stop golf shop houses everything under one roof which is set to immensely complement the Oman golfing scene

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Style & Beauty

Cruise A walkthrough of two fascinating and majestic cruise liners that visited Oman recently - Queen Elizabeth and Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas

VIEW Salalah Marriot Resort remains one of the finest properties in the Dhofar region. Crème de la Crème shows why this resort is a great getaway

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Retreat Ski lovers haven and the perfect luxury getaway, Tshuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa, Switzerland is just what the doctor has ordered for those who want to relax in exclusivity

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VIP A haven of relaxation, exclusivity and sheer luxury, Rixos Villas are perfect to make holidays in Turkey which are out of this world

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Showcase Doha International Airport was the first airport to open a First and Business Class Terminal back in 2006 in the GCC region and today the $90 million new terminal is one of the most ambitious projects

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Interview Arabian Trails brings a new lease of life to the travel and tour industry. A report on the new company in Oman

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Fashion The 40 Corsage show was aimed at paying a tribute to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said as well as the youth of this nation amidst a colourful evening of fashion and art

Melange

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simply Musts A selection of of the finest buys for connoisseurs

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Lounge Must reads for this month - Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford and A Journey: My Political Life by Tony Blair

April / May 2011

Reflections It’s that time of the year! In 2010, the major debacle that set the travel industry back by a few steps was the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland. Yet, that did not stop holidaymakers from cancelling all their travel plans. The popular destinations of Europe and South East Asia continued to draw visitors in hordes and the flights were overbooked through summer. This year is prophesied to be even better. During our conversations with some of the major travel operators in Oman, many said that 2011 is definitely a brighter year for the industry. And for once, it is not just the run-of-the-mill destinations that are being promoted by travel operators this year. There are new destinations and travel itineraries to look forward to. In our Travel Special issue this month, we have featured 10 Top Destinations for 2011. Each destination has been chosen for their unique yet fascinating character and appeal. From the historically vibrant Jordan to joyous Vienna to picturesque Mauritius and more, we have got the lowdown on the must-visit cities for this year. We also visited two marvelous cruise liners that called on Muscat port – Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas and Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth. You just might be tempted to indulge in a cruise vacation! There are also special stories on Tshuggen Grand Hotel set in the heavenly city, Arosa in Switzerland and the luxurious villas from Rixos in Turkey. As promised in our last issue, we will be having an exciting contest for our readers every month with some exciting gifts up for grabs. This month’s prize is a weekend’s stay for two at the beautiful Salalah Marriott Resort. So hurry up and give the Salalah Sojurn contest a shot. Let me not keep you anymore from this issue. We hope you enjoy the features written specially for all our readers. And don’t forget to send us a postcard when you are holidaying in any of the 10 Top Destinations! Until next time…

Editor anne@sjsoman.com

April / May 2011

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April / May 2011 Vol - 3 Issue - 29-30

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ABDULLAH AL TAIE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AUSTIN D’SILVA

PUBLISHER AL ROYA PRESS & PUBLISHING (SAOC)

EDITORIAL Editor ANNE KURIAN

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Art & Design NEIL VICENTE CASTILLO

HEAD - SALES & MARKETING BEATRIZ PEREIRA

Senior Writer MADHULIKA MOHTA

Senior Designer SEBASTINE SILUVAI

Features Writers SUDIPTA DASGUPTA LEELA NAIR

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International Correspondent VAILIA FERNANDES

EVENTS MUSTAFA ABDEL RAHMAN SEEMA AL BALUSHI

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ADVERTISING Oman KALPANA D’SILVA NAVEED SHARIF UAE AUDREY ALMEIDA International RUPA FERNANDES BARRY COELHO DISTRIBUTION ABDULLAH AL BALUSHI ZAHRA AL BALUSHI

DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. No part of Crème de la Crème or any part of the contents there of may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. The publishers regret 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 publishers

April / May 2011

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE AFTER YOU HAVE ENJOYED READING IT

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Trailblazer w Icon April / May 2011

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Trailblazer

Destination Dazzle Summer holidays are just a few weeks away and this means taking a vacation for most people. It’s that time of the year when travel agencies and airlines roll out special packages for holiday-makers. For many people in Oman, this could mean a trip to Thailand or Malaysia or one of the most popular destinations in Europe.

Yet there are many other exciting destinations that are popular but not overcrowded with tourists. We pick 10 great destinations to head to this summer that are fascinating, beautiful and exciting. These destinations are perfect for families, couples or even friends for a fantastic break! Crème de la Crème’s panel of writers brings you the Top 10 Destinations for 2011. Happy Holidays!

Switzerlan

Jordan

GERMAN

srilanka April / May 2011

HunGARY

Maldives

AUSTR

GREECE

land Disney

PARIS

Venice

April / May 2011

BEAUTY UNPARALLELED The postcard perfect country of Europe, Switzerland is one of the foremost must-visit destinations in the continent. The picturesque nation never fails to enamor even the most seasoned visitor

April / May 2011

witzerland undoubtedly is the ultimate destination for most people, even those who have visited the country more than once. The fascinating Alps, stunning landscapes, beautiful lakes, cultural treats and cornucopia of history entice visitors round the year to Switzerland. Unless you have ample time on hand, a visit to Switzerland is never complete without travelling through at least the main spots of the country.

Every city in Switzerland has something to offer, for the visitor to marvel at. We present some of the most interesting cities that should feature in the ideal Swiss travel ititnerary. Geneva

Often described as the third financial city after London and Zurich, Geneva is home to a host of international organisations, including the United Nations. Geneva’s lakefront is one of the city’s greatest assets where the famed Jet d’eau spouts a column of lake water as high as 450 feet in the air, and on a clear day you can see the Mont-Blanc. Geneva is a bustling metropolis, yet maintains an aura of charm that makes it one of the must-visit destinations of Switzerland. Basel

The city that plays host to the most exclusive and largest watch and jewellery fair in the world, Basel is a cultural centre. Close to Alsace in France and the Black Forest region of Germany, the Basel old town and museums are must-visit when visiting Europe.

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Among the must-dos when in Bern is to visit Bern Münster - the largest gothic Cathedral in Switzerland, Albert Einstein’s house and take a tour of the Parliament building

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April / May 2011

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The Old City of Zurich is one of the most popular attractions of the banking city. Zurich is also the centre of Switzerland’s nightlife as well as renowned shopping districts

” Bern

This old town of the Swiss capital is one of the best preserved medieval old towns in Europe and is justifiably secured a position on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Among the must-dos when in Bern is to visit Bern Münster - the largest gothic Cathedral in Switzerland, Albert Einstein’s house and take a tour of the Parliament building. Jungfraujoch

At 11,333 feet in the Bernese Alps, Jungfraujoch is officially recognised as the top of Europe. Take a ride on an old cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, which is not only the top of Europe, but the train station in Jungfraujoch also happens to be the highest train station in Europe. The train ride takes about 50 minutes with occasional stops for lookouts. The views along the way are breathtaking, and once visitors reach the top they are able to explore the Aletsch Glacier, the Sphinx Observatory, or hike to the Monchjoch Hut.

cities, then it has to be Zermatt. A laid back ski resort village that lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is home to the highest ski area within the Alps. When in Zermatt, take the Matterhorn ski safari, take part in the winter activities, take a glacier excursions, see how cheese is made, visit world renown spas and resorts, or a ride on the highest cable car that leads to the Matterhorn offering a spectacular 360 degree view. Lucerne

Located in central Switzerland, the city is concentrated around the gorgeous Lake Lucerne. The city offers many fantastic nature hikes and walks, as well as spectacular views of Mount Pilatus and Rigi of the Swiss Alps. One of the highlights in Lucerne is the wooden Chapel Bridge that dates back to the 14th Century. Other great sights within Lucerne are the Wasserturm, the Mill Bridge with its infamous Dance of Death painting, Old Town Lucerne, the Church of St. Leodegar and the Lion Monument.

Zermatt

Lauterbrunnen

If there is one place in Switzerland you can visit besides the

This picturesque area comprises the villages of

April / May 2011

the Rhine river, Schaffhausen boasts a charming old town with many elaborate oriels and the Munot - a fortress overlooking the old town and the Rhine river. The Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfalls, are just a few hours away. Neuchâtel

Alexandre Dumas described Neuchâtel as a ‘toytown carved from butter’. The sandstone buildings which adorn the whole of the old town are as characteristic of the city as the lake on which it is perched. A visit to this city calls for a tour of the castle, Collegial Church and lake cruise. Lausanne

Often referred to as the San Fransisco of Switzerland for it’s steep hilly nature, Lausanne is home to one of the most beautiful Swiss old towns and probably the most impressive Gothic Cathedrals in Switzerland. Lugano

Situated on the banks of Lake Lugano, Lugano is a little bit of Italy with Swiss organisation. The Piazza of the pretty old town and the waterfront promenade are just perfect to spend idyllic moments doing nothing but watching life pass by in a leisurely pace.

Lauterbrunnen, Murren, Gimmelwald, Stechelberg, Isenfluh and Wengen. In Lauterbrunnen you can enjoy hikes, train rides, wonderful restaurants, gondola rides to Gimmelwald, a stop in at the breathtaking Interlaken or a stop to view the powerful Trummelbach Falls. Zurich

One of most fascinating cities in Switzerland, Zurich is unique mix of the contemporary and traditional. The Old City of Zurich is one of the most popular attractions of the banking city. Zurich is also the centre of Switzerland’s nightlife as well as renowned shopping districts. An allround city, Zurich never fails to captive visitors and makes you want to go back for more. Rapperswil

A quiet Swiss district, Repperswil’s highlights include a beautiful old town, great setting and wonderful people. The town is famous for its Blues ‘n’ Jazz Festival. Schaffhausen

Capital of the only canton which is exclusively north of

April / May 2011

The FASCINATING kingdom Nothing prepares you for one of the most fascinating countries in the Arab world as much as a trip to Jordan. A report on the beautiful kingdom that has something for just about every traveller

April / May 2011

uch has been written about the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, especially after Petra was chosen as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Yet nothing prepares you for the incredible sights and sounds that the country has to offer until you visit. The country tugs at your heart right from the moment you catch a glimpse of the terrain from the aircraft – red mountains, pockets of green, barren lands... A fascinating and growing country, Jordan is on the path of development in a quicker and substantial manner. The first instance of this is the ongoing expansion work at Queen Alia International Airport, the main hub for all airlines arriving in and departing from Jordan. The increased passenger traffic into Jordan is one of the important factors for the expansion work. The country is also poised to grow as a financial and trade hub over the next few years, thereby necessitating development in all major areas. We list out some of the must-visit spots of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

Amman

The bustling metropolis is an invigorating mix of the old and new; ancient and modern. In the commercial heart of Amman, ultra-modern buildings, hotels, restaurants, art galleries and boutiques share space with traditional coffee

shops and tiny artisans’ workshops. Everywhere there is evidence of the city’s olden days. One of the famous sights here is the Citadel. Built on top of Jabal al-Qala’a, the Citadel is home to remains from Roman, Byzantine and Islamic period. Ruins of a temple dedicated to Hercules can be found here; and for history buffs, the Jordan Archaeological Museum just a few metres away is a must-visit. Across Jabal al-Qala’a lies the famous Roman Theatre.

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The awe-inspiring edifice, Al Khazneh was built as a temple and has a large urn right at the top which local legends proclaim contain gold; thus the building was given its name

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April / May 2011

Mount Nebo

This is important historical site where Moses is believed to be buried. Announced as one of the pilgrimage sites by Pope John Paul II, Mount Nebo attracts hordes of travellers every year. Even though at a considerable distance, the sight of Jerusalem is an overwhelming sight. The excavated artifacts and mosaic floorings on display at Mount Nebo are fascinating. Jerash

Madaba

Renowned for its Byzantine mosaics, Madaba is a charming and quiet town. A visit to the town is not complete without a trip to one a arts and crafts centre where handicrafts, souvenirs, Dead Sea products, antiques, silver jewellery and of course, mosaic artifacts are sold, that are also made at the venue. The St. George Church, one of the highlights of Madaba, is home to one of the intrinsic mosaic maps to be ever found. The Greek Orthodox church is built over the an ancient Byzantine church and the original mosaic map that covered Lebanon to Jordan is believed to be far bigger than what is present now. Studies suggest that the map was probably created to help pilgrims travelling from one holy place to another.

This region boasts of one of the world’s largest and aweinspiring ancient sites of Roman architecture outside Italy. The city that prospered under the rule of Emperor Pompey is home to some of most well-preserved Roman ruins that have been discovered. Jerash, also known as Gerasa, was conquered by Alexander the Great during the 4th century but the town flourished under the leadership of Roman ruler Pompey. Many centuries, rulers and an earthquake later, the city was buried under sand. This natural occurrence has led to the ruins being so well-preserved. The stone pathways, columns, temples, baths, two church complexes, an amphitheatre and other ruins from the Graeco-Roman period are awe-inspiring. Spectacular shows known as the Roman Army and Chariot Experience (RACE) re-enacting the Roman Army’s war tactics, gladiator fights and Chariot race are held regularly just a few metres away from the ruins. A setting that is reminiscent of the ancient Roman chariot races and fights or even the Oscar-winning Ben-Hur, the show at the hippodrome is nothing short of a journey through history.

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In the commercial heart of Amman, ultra-modern buildings, hotels, restaurants, art galleries and boutiques share space with traditional coffee shops and tiny artisans’ workshops

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April / May 2011

Petra

The journey to Petra begins at Wadi Musa. Motor vehicles are not allowed inside the city of Petra and the only means of transport are donkeys or horses or horse-drawn carriages. But most people opt to walk the few kilometers as it is quite a pleasant one, especially when the temperature is bearable. Walking also ensures that you get to know all that you want to about the ancient city of Petra from the guide who can be you hired at the Visitor’s Centre where you pick up maps, batteries or even souvenirs on your way back. On the way you get to see tombs, mostly of kings, queens and family members of the Nabataean kingdom, built into the rocks. At the end of the chasm is the sight that without fail will take even the most seasoned traveller’s breath away. For this is where the incredible image that is seen on all references to Petra comes alive – the Treasury or Al Khazneh. The awe-inspiring edifice, Al Khazneh was built as a temple and has a large urn right at the top which local legends proclaim contain gold; thus the building was given its name. Whether there really is gold or not, no one would know as the building is off-limits to visitors. There is also a museum at the end of the pathway from the Treasury which is home to excavated ruins from the Nabataean period.

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Announced as one of the pilgrimage sites by Pope John Paul II, Mount Nebo attracts hordes of travellers every year. Even though at a considerable distance, the sight of Jerusalem was an overwhelming sight

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April / May 2011

Wadi Rum

Famed for being the setting of the movie Lawrence of Arabia, the mesmerising desertscape is a world of its own and spending a day or two in one of the desert camps would be a great way to experience Wadi Rum. Aqaba

An idyllic city, Aqaba boasts of renowned hotels, economic upswing and fascinating beaches. Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), set up the government of Jordan, is an initiative to develop the economic potential of Aqaba that would turn the city into a prospective business and leisure destination. The authority is working towards making Aqaba a quality destination for discerning visitors. Aqaba is also home to the Islamic city of Ayla, which is believed to have been built in 650 AD and later discovered 1986 through excavation. A major tourist attraction in the city is the Aqaba Castle. Aqaba incidentally is a great place to shop for electronic goods as it is tax free. Jordan River

A popular pilgrimage destination for many and haunt of history buffs, Jordan River is where you can find Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baptism site. The Baptism site where Jesus Christ is belived to have been baptised attracts hordes of tourists and pilgrims from across the globe. Many believers collect water from the river to take back with them. Baptisms are also held at this site. Dead Sea

The lowest lying places on earth and the water mass in which nothing lives, Dead Sea is an experience by itself. This huge water body is believed to be rich in minerals and salts, thus giving its water and mud curative as well as therapeutic qualities. And thanks to the super high content of salts in the water, everyone can float on the Dead Sea. There are a selection of luxury resorts and hotels by the Dead Sea for visitors looking forward to experiencing the Dead Sea as well as spa treatments that incorporate Dead Sea mud. Jordan is a mesmerising country. There truly is something for every visitor to Jordan, be it history, culture, desert camping, beaches or basking in sheer luxury. And what makes this places all the more special are its people. Friendly and ever-helpful, the hospitality of Jordanians is heartwarming. A must-visit for every intrepid traveller!

April / May 2011

Travel & Lifestyle

German Delights A rising favourite of visitors from the Middle East, Germany is a popular travel choice. Mesmerising landscapes, vibrant cities combined with Germany’s renowned medical treatment facilities has boosted the country’s attractiveness. Crème de la Crème presents the sights and sounds of Germany

April / May 2011

ith millions of people visiting each year, Germany has long established itself as an attractive holiday destination. Be it adventure or relaxation, families, couples and single travellers alike enjoy a trip to the country, thanks to its fascinating variety of modern cities, beautiful landscapes, charming villages and castles as well as history, art and culture. Increasing numbers of visitors, including many Arab Gulf travellers, also look to combine their vacation with excellent medical treatments available in Germany, which includes many options for accompanying families to be entertained on visits to the beautiful countryside and exciting cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, Duesseldorf and Stuttgart. Countless upscale hotels and resorts are also available at all destinations, in line with the demands of visitors from the GCC for world-class accommodation. From the North to the South, this fascinating country offers myriad and interesting sights all along.

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Hamburg

When it comes to shopping, Munich has everything from haute couture on exclusive Maximilianstrasse, where a number of top couturiers present their creations, to plenty of department stores as well as handicrafts and souvenirs shops

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Start off in Germany’s North, in the metropolis of Hamburg which is distinguished by its unique location on the water, situated on the River Elbe and the Alster Lake. This allows for relaxing boat tours, while the city offers plenty of greenery in parks, gardens and woodlands as well. Another popular attraction is the Hamburg Harbour, which attracts more than 8 million visitors every year. Hamburg is also Germany’s music capital, with a great variety of musicals, such as Disney’s ‘The Lion King’, live music in diverse clubs and outstanding classical music at Hamburg State Opera or Hamburg Ballet. Shoppers can find everything they desire in one of the many shopping arcades in the centre of the city, such as Bleichenhof, Hanse-Viertel and Levantehaus. Neuer Wall, a famous shopping avenue, is home to exquisite international brands. As for medical treatment, the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) is well-known as a center that offers a complete range of options for patients in more than 160 clinics, including treatment for complex or rare syndromes.

April / May 2011

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Dusseldorf, located on the river Rhein, is the capital of the federal state of NorthRhine Westphalia. It is known as one of the most elegant cities in central Germany, and as a great place for intellectual stimulation with many art and cultural venues

Berlin

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The German capital, one of the Europe’s most important creative hubs, has redefined itself since the country’s official reunification in 1990. Cultural inspiration can be found in more than 170 museums and art galleries, for instance on the famous ‘Museum Island.’ Major tourist attractions reflecting the city’s fascinating history are the Brandenburg Gate, the TVtower at Alexanderplatz, ‘Unter den Linden’, the Reichstag parliament building, East Side Gallery, Gendarmenmarkt, the Victory Column and Charlottenburg Palace. Fashion, ranging from clothes made by the young, creative designers of the city to the most well-known international labels is available all across the different districts of Berlin. Elegant shops and boutiques are located in the street of Kurfuerstendamm, with major flagship stores close by. Friedrichstrasse in central Berlin is another option for

April / May 2011

those looking for high-end fashion. The luxurious KaDeWe department store is considered one of the largest shopping malls in Europe and an important landmark of Berlin. Another asset of the German capital is its large natural and green areas, with over 2,500 public parks, lakes and rivers, with one of the most well-known parks, the Tiergarten, also being called ‘Berlin’s green heart.’ Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf, located on the river Rhein, is the capital of the federal state of North-Rhine Westphalia. It is known as one of the most elegant cities in central Germany, and as a great place for intellectual stimulation with many art and cultural venues. Dusseldorf ’s MediaHarbour is another creatively inspiring area of the city. Its docklands were modernised and designed by famous international architects and now house around 700 companies and a thriving restaurant scene. Dusseldorf ’s famous Königsallee has helped Dusseldorf gain a reputation as one of the most elegant shopping destinations in the world. Also called the ‘Kö’ by residents, it belongs to a small group of elite luxury boulevards, which also include the Champs-Élysées in Paris and New York’s Fifth Avenue. Health and excellent medical treatment are also on offer in the city, amongst others at Dusseldorf University (UKD), whose care is well-known internationally for its high quality and its outstanding combination of clinical research and treatment, as well as at St. Mauritius Therapieklinik.

In order to reach Dusseldorf, flights to the wellconnected Dusseldorf International Airport are available to different destinations in the Middle East. Stuttgart - Baden-Wuerttemberg

Stuttgart, located in Germany’s beautiful southwest, is a cosmopolitan city with plenty of cultural and natural attractions. The state capital of Baden-Wuerttemberg is a successful centre of the powerful German economy. Until today one of Stuttgart’s main attractions is the MercedesBenz Museum, which showcases more than 160 vehicles from different periods of the history of the car. Thanks to its central location in the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Stuttgart is an ideal destination for visitors who want to discover the beautiful nature in the Black Forest or at the Lake of Constance. Magnificent castles and palaces located in and around Stuttgart also never fail to fascinate old and young alike. Moreover, Baden-Wuerttemberg has Germany’s biggest theme park, Europa-Park Rust, near Freiburg. The park awaits visitors with a concept of thirteen different European areas that offer more than 100 attractions and shows. Stuttgart is centrally located in Germany and can be easily reached by plane from the Gulf states via Stuttgart Airport, which has regular flight connections from Dubai via Munich and Frankfurt on Lufthansa, for instance.

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Hamburg is also Germany’s music capital, with a great variety of musicals, such as Disney’s ‘The Lion King’, live music in diverse clubs and outstanding classical music at Hamburg State Opera or Hamburg Ballet

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Munich

The Bavarian capital benefits from its beautiful setting near the Alps and has long been amongst the favourite destinations of Arab tourists coming to Germany. Boasting a unique mix of modernity and tradition, historical architecture and plentiful shopping opportunities, many guests greatly enjoy the greenery of the surrounding countryside with beautiful lakes and castles. When it comes to shopping, Munich has everything from haute couture on exclusive Maximilianstrasse, where a number of top couturiers present their creations, to plenty of department stores as well as handicrafts and souvenirs shops. Other than that, relaxing visits to the English Garden and the city’s plentiful welcoming street cafés certainly convince many to return regularly to Munich. After the recent launch of direct flights to Munich by Oman Air, as well as regular connections on Germany’s Lufthansa, this number of returning visitors is set to increase even further soon. (For more information on health tourism in Germany, please contact: gnto.team@dlh.de)

April / May 2011

Island of Miracles

The tiny tear drop shaped island in the Indian Ocean has become the latest hotspot for tourists. Tourism in Sri Lanka can, broadly, be divided into three categories – the beaches, the cities of cultural, historical and religious importance and last but definitely not the least, the nature reserves

his resplendent island is a tourist paradise with an abundance of tourist attractions like the sun drenched beaches, glorious ancient cities, beautiful fauna & flora, engraving temples of Buddha, exquisite handicrafts, world renowned gems, traditional dance & drama, colourful festivals, warm and friendly people and not forgetting the heavenly Sri Lankan cuisine. Sri Lanka is fast becoming the cynosure of South Asia. It is an ideal tourist destination. For a small Island the amount of things to see in Sri Lanka is almost limitless. With a recorded history of more than 2500 years there are plenty of ancient sites for you to see in Sri Lanka. The most famous ones are the Sigiriya, Colombo and Pollonnaruwa and sacred city of Kandy. Colombo

The bustling city of Colombo is the largest in Sri Lanka. It is about an hour’s drive from the Bandarnaike International Airport. Just like other metropolitan cities, Colombo is a hub of activity. It is Sri Lanka’s capital city and a major port. Many visitors will appreciate Colombo’s colonial heritage, its fine dining and shopping opportunities, and the dash of urban buzz in an overwhelmingly rural country. If you’re only on a short trip Sri Lanka, you may wish to pass by Colombo, but if you have the time – say at least two days – there are plenty of cultural and historical attractions in areas such as the famous Forts, Cinnamon Gardens and Pettah.

April / May 2011

Dambulla

At Dambulla, shrines are carved into the rock; which again resembles caves. About 150 Buddha statues of all sizes are constructed and there is a story behind each one of them. The Heritance Kandalama, Sigiriya Rock and the Dambulla Temple are known to make up the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. Dambulla is also famous for its cave temples. These cave temples are situated around 160m above the town. The five most important caves here are clustered together and can be seen after paying a small fee for the ticket. Many guides are available who will familiarise you with the history of the place and the symbolism of the various statues of Lord Buddha and other gods and goddesses. It is interesting to ponder over the fact that some of these caves date back to the second century B.C. and was used by King Valagamba as shelter during his time in exile. Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

Another place worth mentioning here is the Pinnawela elephant orphanage which can be visited on the way to Kandy. It is home to more than 100 elephants. You can enjoy the sight of the elephants happily marching their way to the bank of the river Ma Oya for their bath, which happens twice a day. You can also feed them milk from a bottle with the assistance of the mahouts or helpers. Do your bit to help out and make a donation of bananas or milk for the elephants! The whole experience of seeing these gentle giants frolic in the river will truly be unforgettable. Sigiriya

One of the seven world heritage site in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is the most visited site in Sri Lanka. It is a fortress build on top of a 350M high rock and the surrounding gardens and the irrigation system is considered a great feat during the time Sigiriya was built. It is also world renowned for its frescoes which are found in some part of the rock walls.

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If you’re only on a short trip Sri Lanka, you may wish to pass by Colombo, but if you have the time – say at least two days – there are plenty of cultural and historical attractions in areas such as the famous Forts, Cinnamon Gardens and Pettah

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Kandy

After Colombo, the city of Kandy (called Maha Nuvara locally) is the most important in Sri Lanka. There is no shortage of things to do and places to visit here. Historically, Kandy is important as it was one of the last kingdoms to remain independent from colonisation. On the way from Colombo, it will be the first major town that you encounter while travelling towards the Central Highlands. The annual festival of the Esala Perahera, which falls on the full moon around July or August, is in honour of this relic. This whole pageant is a sight to see with the traditional Kandyan dancers, beautifully decorated elephants, fire acts and what not. It is also interesting to note that whenever the tooth relic has been taken out for public exposition, it has almost always rained. There are many good hotels dotted around the lake on all sides. In close proximity to the temple of tooth is the modern Kandy city centre, and the shopping complex, 50

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which is a good example of the beautiful blend of modern and ancient that this wonderful town is. Sinharaja Biosphere

Sri Lanka is rich in flora and fauna and home to many wildlife sanctuaries and natural reserves, some of which are the Gal Oya National Park where large herds of elephants can be seen, Yala National Park with one of the highest leopard densities in the world, and Ravana Ella wildlife sanctuary which contains the famous Ravana falls and caves, significant to the Hindu epic of Ramayana. All these places have stunning landscapes and are rich in natural wealth. It is hard, therefore, to select one to write about. However, Sinharaja Biosphere reserve is one of the most significant amongst these, not only because it is a UNESCO world heritage site, but also because it is one of the last few rainforests left in the world. Due to the density of the vegetation there are fewer animals to be seen but it is

a botanist’s dream come true for those who would like to study the plants of rainforests, many of them native to Sri Lanka. Nuwera Elliya

Blessed with a salubrious climate, breathtaking views of valleys, meadows, mountains and greenery; it’s hard to imagine that Nuwara Eliya is only 180 Km from the hot and humid Colombo. Nuwara Eliya (City of Lights), also known as ‘Little’ England’, was the favourite hill station of the British who tried to create Nuwara Eliya into a typical English Village. The old brick Post office, country house like hill club, with it’s hunting pictures, mounted hunting trophies and fish, and it’s strict formal dinner attire; the 18 hole golf course, race course etc., all remind you of ‘England’. Galle – The walled City

The seaside town of Galle is 116 Km., from Colombo by road or rail, down the southwest coast. Both routes are picturesque, following the coastline closely for much of the way. Today’s town has grown greatly and spreads into the hinterland but the Fort is the slow-beating heart of Galle’s history. The walled city has stood since the early sixteenth century, through the Colonial periods of the Portuguese, Dutch and British and in our present times is proclaimed as an Archaeological Reserve and been identified as a World Heritage site. Galle is the sort of place from which one must take away a souvenir. You may make a pick of Galle lace, -handmade, like the Brussels or the Honiton types. Where but in Galle may you plunge your hands into a bucketful of limpid moonstones or the more precious and rarer of gems, the blue sapphire or the ruby! These can be beautifully set according to your whim or wish!

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The Diamond of the Ocean Mauritius, often referred to as the paradise island, is a land like no other – sun, sand, sea and natural beauty that does not fail to take your breath away. Crème de la Crème tells you why beautiful island on Indian Ocean is a must visit

auritius, a sparkling crystal in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, will fascinate you. The contrast of colours, cultures and tastes makes the island so charming that the scene is set for an unforgettable holiday. Here, you have the opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury: a level of refinement that is head and shoulders above on offer in other tropical holiday destinations. Here, you will discover the true meaning of ‘beauty’ – a realisation that will compel you to return to Mauritius’ shores time and again. Since the early days, Mauritius has always been referred to as a paradise. The island has inspired famous names such as French poet Baudelaire and American writer Mark Twain. Today, it is renowned a holiday destination known for excellent service. The first hotels were established in the late sixties and early seventies. The introduction of direct flights from

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Europe had an impact on tourist arrivals. Air Mauritius, the national carrier, had a crucial role, together with Air France and British Airways. Today, Air Mauritius flies to 28 destinations. South African Airways, Emirates,Condor, LTU, Corsairfly, Air Europe, Air Madagascar, Air Seychelles, BAComair, Virgin Atlantic, Transaero also fly to Mauritius. The year-on-year growth in tourist arrivals has been regular throughout the last decade. 871 356 tourists visited Mauritius in 2009. In 2009, the tourism receipts were at Mauritian Rs 35.7 billion. The main markets are France with 275 599 visitors in 2009, United Kingdom (101,996) Reunion (104,946), South Africa, Italy and Germany. Emerging markets are India and Australia, among others. Beach resorts in Mauritius are among the best in the world and there are currently 100 hotels and 11,102 rooms in Mauritius. There are 8 high class resorts and 30 luxury hotels.

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Beach resorts in Mauritius are among the best in the world and there are currently 100 hotels and 11,102 rooms in Mauritius. There are 8 high class resorts and 30 luxury hotels

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Sun Resorts (four hotels) and Beachcomber (nine hotels) are the pioneers of the tourism industry in Mauritius. Naiade Resorts and Veranda Hotels are the emerging ones with respectively five and seven hotels. Hotels Constance and Indigo Hotels operate on the luxury segment. Regional groups like Apavou Hotels, or international labels like Club Mediterranée, Hilton, Sofitel, Le Méridien, Movenpick, Taj, Oberoi, Four Seasons, Starwood, Intercontinental and Sheraton are also present. Mauritius offers a vast range of accommodation, from large to small hotels, bungalows and apartments. There are some 30 ground operators on the island and car rental agencies are represented in every large hotel. Tourism activities are under the control of the Tourism Authority who delivers all operational permits for hotels as well as tour operators, boat operators and beach hawkers. The northern coast of the island is the place where the

most development has taken place in recent years. Thanks to this work, Grand Baie has an abundance of restaurants and discotheques. If you like to party to the sound of good music, you will find plenty of options to choose from here. The north isn’t only about night life, however. It also boasts some of Mauritius’ best-loved sights, including the charming red-roofed church that overlooks the lagoon at Cap Malheureux. The south reveals a dramatically different landscape from the rest of the island: one typified by high cliffs – in places – that are battered by waves. These are created where the protective barrier of coral reef that surrounds Mauritius falls away on the seabed, so leaving the coastline exposed to a punishing Indian Ocean. But the south is not singularly about cliffs and rough waters. Further round the coastline, heading westwards, are an array of beautiful beaches and top-rate hotels and resorts, in up-andcoming areas such as Bel Ombre.

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Since the early days, Mauritius has always been referred to as a paradise. The island has inspired famous names such as French poet Baudelaire and American writer Mark Twain

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A coastline comprised of exquisite coves and emerald lagoons, permanently enhanced by a cool sea breeze: life goes by at a slow pace in the east – whether you’re a member of the fishing community or a holidaymaker. Situated between the mountains and the sea, the east is characterised by charming little villages with poetic names like Petite Julie, Mare d’Australia and Queen Victoria. It also plays home to some of the country’s best beaches, including Belle Mare, where you will want to spend hours basking in the sun, glorying in the sight of the long stretch of white sand. Off Tamarin Bay or Flic en Flac, heading in the direction of Île aux Benitiers, you can see the dolphins that come to these waters to rest and breed. The Morne Mountain, with its historical links to slavery, can also be found in this region –as well as some fine hotels known for their wide choice of watersports. Slightly inland, in the hills around Chamarel, is the rum distillery that bears the name of the village. Here, you can learn about rum production and taste some of the delightful produce. WHAT YOU CAN DO IN MAURITIUS

Diving

Skin-diving masks and flippers, scuba diving equipment, small discovery submarine, sub-scooter or just a swimsuit is all you need to enjoy one of the very pleasurable natural experiences. Marine life conceals an infinite sea treasure.

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Spas and wellness

The spas are now regarded as a must visit for all tourists. Sponsored by international leading names such as Clarins, Givenchy, Guerlain, La Prairie, and Shisheido, the competitive nature of the market has resulted in an amazing range of pampering treatments and state-of-the-art health and beauty centres. The island’s mix of cultures also inspires an eclectic mix of therapies, with a choice of Asian Ayurvedic massages, ocean-inspired treatments as well as ageold African and Creole remedies made from local herbs and flowers. Shopping

Taking a little something back home, be it a diamond necklace or a cashmere pashmina, a rack of spices or a colourful basket, Mauritius has shopping opportunities for all. Green tourism

One of the main attractions is the Black River Gorge National Park which extends over 6,754 hectares, with special attention paid to the highly endangered native plants and animals. It is home to about 311 species of native and endemic flowering plants and 9 species of birds, which can only be found in Mauritius. Green tourism is rapidly growing with huge domains opening up to the visitors The Tea Route, Moka, L’Etoile, Casela, La Vanille. Cyclo tourism

Cyclo-tourism was launched to transform Mauritius into a cyclist-friendly destination. This was one of the most innovative promotional activities of 2009. This concrete initiative fits with the declared vision of the Government to make of Mauritius a “Sustainable Island”. Cyclo-tourism is in fact a clean and green activity that aligns sports, health, and a respectful sharing of the road that gives effect, meaning and substance to the Mauritian hospitality.

Sky diving

Sky diving is a new activity. Extreme sport lovers will surely appreciate the skydiving option in Mauritius where one can enjoy the most magnificent views of the island. Honeymoon

Mauritius is among the top five best places to get married and take a honeymoon with its stunning scenery, warm tropical climate and natural hospitality of the Mauritian people. Most hotels offer extensive wedding and honeymoon packages and have their own experienced wedding coordinator who will organize every last detail according to your wish. Golf

Mauritius was the third country where golf was played after UK and India and most of the golf courses in Mauritius are spectacular with views of the sea in the background. Mauritius Gymkhana Golf Club, is the oldest golf club in the Southern Hemisphere, and the fourth oldest golf course in the world. There are eight 18-hole golf courses and five 9-hole golf courses around the island. Deep sea fishing

This can be practised between November and April. The species found in Mauritius are blue and black marlins, sharks, tuna, bonito. Fishing boats can be hired from most of the hotels A number of deep sea fishing competitions have become regular events over the years. The most prestigious one is the Marlin World Cup, which is organised

in December. The main fishing centres are in RiviĂ¨re-Noire, Le Morne, Flic-en-Flac, Trou-aux-Biches and Grand-Baie. Dolphin watching

Introduced a couple of years ago, dolphin watching is now very popular. The excursions are organised mainly on the West coast. Kite surf

Mauritius is now renowned among the specialistes for the quality and the number of kite surf spots from Anse-la-Raie and Cap Malheureux to Poste Lafayette, Belle-Mare and Pointe dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Esny. One of the best places is Le Morne, famous for surfing since the early 1970s. (With special thanks to Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) and Grayling Momentum PR)

April / May 2011

A Greek Odyssey

A country of beautiful contradictions, Greece appears like a constant journey in time even to the intrepid traveller as you meander through the past and present. A report...

April / May 2011

reece is a land where cultures, history, colours and modernity intermingle to create a unique topography. A country of beautiful contradictions, Greece appears like a constant journey in time even to the intrepid traveller as you meander through the past and present. The olive groves tempt you just as the archaeological sites vie for attention; so do the beaches and the many jewels of islands. The islands are the main characteristic of Greece’s morphology and an integral part of the country’s culture and tradition. Greek sovereign land includes around 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The Greek Archipelago takes up 7,500 km of the country’s total 16,000 km coastline, offering a highly diversified landscape: beaches stretching over many kilometers,

sheltered bays and coves, sandy beaches with sand-dunes, pebble beaches, coastal caves with steep rocks and dark colored sand typical of volcanic soil and coastal wetlands. A visit to Greece requires more than just a quick tour. Greek cities burst with life and vigour, while offering visitors a plethora of modern facilities and choices. Some of the must-visit spots of Greece

Mykonos

The island is surrounded by a kind of surreal beauty that needs to be seen to be believed. Mykonos is vibrant and cosmopolitan; the island is a favourite haunt of celebrities and the jet-set crowd. Mykonos is home to a variety of seaside bars, restaurants, gift-shops and the like.

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Plaka is the city’s oldest neighbourhood, resting on the slopes of the Acropolis. This is the old Ottoman quarter, oozing with atmosphere and overflowing with cafes, boutiques and fascinating architecture

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Greece is a country with a hallowed past and an at-times turbulent present. Appreciation of the achievements of its classical past has tended to overshadow its development as a free nation since the War of Independence from the Ottomans in 1821

The winding, maze-like streets of Mykonos may seem perplexing at first, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost impossible to get lost here. The shimmering blue and white buildings set against the turquoise blue sea in this breathtaking paradise leave you with a pleasantly heady and out of this world feeling. Santorini

Crisp, white-washed buildings together with the Mediterranean climate and the picturesque Aegean sea place to visit, and if relaxation often alludes you, as it does me, Santorini will make you melt in your seat with contentment. Even the greatest stressors will at least be temporarily forgotten as you sip red wine and munch on kalamatas in one of the numerous patios overlooking the Mediterranean.

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But beyond the sheer beauty of Santorini, it holds a cataclysmic past. The island today is, as you can note from the crescent shape, a remnant of a massive volcanic eruption, one that rocked the Mediterranean over 5000 years ago, and decimated a thriving Minoan population; one that in all likelihood originated from the island of Crete. It is theorized that this catastrophe spawned the Atlantis myth, but whatever the truth may be, this island holds a captivating and tragic past, quite a contrast to the sense of calm that pervades the island today. Athens

Athens is the treasure of Greece. The Acropolis in Athens is the most important sight and missed by no visitor to Greece. Those not to be missed (though hardly the

extent of what to experience here) include the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, the Greek Agora and the Archeological Museum. A hike up Lykavittos Hill may be a wise way to begin your trip, as it offers a sweeping vista of the city below, and beyond the view, is a good way to get your bearings in what can be a fairly confusing city to navigate. The district of Plaka, nestled just below the Acropolis, is the most picturesque area of Athens, containing a conglameration of cafes, tavernas, and gift shops. Its cobblestone streets, outdoor restaurants and live performances make Plaka an excellent choice for where to lodge in Athens. Delphi

The oracle of Delphi was renowned in the ancient world for its prophetic contributions, and kings of various empires are believed to have sought its knowledge on matters of importance. At Delphi, the attractions include the tholos at the sanctuary of Athena to Apollo’s gargantuan temple to the famed Delphi museum. The village of Delphi has a good selection of restaurants and cafes. Crete

This large island is one of the most exciting places in Greece. From party beach towns like Mallia to the sophisticated, expensive little city of Agios Nikolao to nature’s wonder Samaria Gorge and Chania, the city, Crete packs in something for everyone. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Minoan site of Knossos are must-see attractions here. The heart of Crete is filled with steep mountains, villages, windmills and winding roads. The southern coast is wilder, with some great retreat spots. The beautiful church architecture, which is a common factor all over the country, makes you slow down and watch in admiration. There are lovely tavernas to spend time in as well as quaint shops to buy exquisite Greek knickknacks.

Kefalonia

Blessed with a unique history, lush mountains, stunning coastline and a refined style that is visible in just about everything from architecture to lifestyle, Kefalonia is a beautiful island. Kefalonia has some of the best beaches, which include Myrtos, Petani and Antisamos. There are many villages to explore on the verdant island of Kefalonia that are picturesque and attractive. Many of these villages are located in the vast mountainous area of the island while some others can be found on its impressive coastline. Kefalonia’s night life is just as wonderful. Most of the lively nightlife of Kefalonia is concentrated around the capital of the island, Argostoli and in the modern bars and huge night clubs of the main settlement such as Fiscardo, Lixouri, Skala, Poros and Sami. All those places in Kefalonia offer a wide variety of entertainment..

Thessaloniki

A culturally rich city, Thessaloniki is just as sophisticates as Athens and is a treat to visit. Thessaloniki is the most important port in the Balkans yet has a young vibrant charm. The nightlife in Thessaloniki is fantastic and the food is excellent. The city is also home of the renowned Thessaloniki Film Festival held in October-November. A shopaholic’s haven, the city boasts of some of the best known names from the fashion industry. For the history buffs, there are many Roman and Byzantine sites to explore as well as museums and the ruins of Vergina which include the tomb of Phillip, father of Alexander the great.

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A Hungarian Holiday

A country that has a good blend of culture and modernism and is situated at the the heart of Europe, Budapest is the next place to be, says Sudipta Dasgupta

ungary is the place to be this summer! Situated in the very heart of Europe, the country can claim a unique place in the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soul. Travellers can cruise the romantic Danube River which dramatically splits Budapest in two (Buda and Pest) or taste the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique paprika-infused cuisine to be convinced of what the country promises. I landed in Hungary during the cold winter month of January 2011 and the picturesque snow clad landscape was breathtaking especially after having lived in a country known for its sand dunes and hot weather (Oman) for over 20 years. This was my first european holiday, thanks to Qatar Airways for their invitation and organising an exceptional trip for journlaists from the Gulf region as well as Australia. during their inaugural flight to Budapest from Doha (Qatar).

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We had the opportunity of seeing some of the most famous places in Hungary and dining to exclusive Hungarian hospitality. Parliament - The Symbol of the City

Built for almost 20 years, the Parliament has been the symbol of the capital since its inauguration in 1904. In accordance with the political orders of the 19th century, the eclectic building is divided into House of Lords and House of Commons, connected by the dome in the middle. Nowadays the building hosts the parliament and so can be visited only by guided tours. Passing through the building many different architectural styles can be discovered, from the Gothic to the Renaissance and Baroque. The beautiful marble cover, the coats of arms of the Hungarian counties, the star decorated vault of the dome, and the historical paintings covering the walls are all worth a visit.

Fishermen’s Bastio

The Buda Castle defence line was crowned by Frigyes Schulek architect at the beginning of the 19th century, that is how Fishermen’s bastion was born. The name comes from the fact the protection of this part of the castle was traditionally the fishermen’s obligation. The construction was a side-result of the newly erected Matthias Church, as it required a proper environment. The Fishermen’s Bastion is still a decorative piece of Buda. You can have extensive and really beautiful walks on with its zigzag stairs, or just walk along its arches offering exquisite view of Pest. Chain Bridge

Budapest’s first and most beautiful bridge is the Chain Bridge. The idea of constructing a bridge was insinuated by Count István Széchenyi, who assigned two Englishmen, William and Adam Clark to design and construct it. But posterity only remembers Adam Clark, after whom the square at Buda side was named. Similarly to other bridges, the Chain Bridge was destroyed during the World War II but was rebuilt after. The lions were placed only later at the bridgeheads, and together with the bridge they are accompanied by many legends. The tunnel is said to be built just to shelter the bridge in case it rains, and the lions are said to have silver rivets in the mouths that cannot be seen from below. Museum of Fine Arts

This unique eclectic building is the pride of the city and decoratively embraces the Heroes’ Square. The colonnade at the entrance with wide stairs recalls a period when representation overtook common sense, which greatly influenced the history of the collection. The basic collection of paintings was donated by noblemen, and it was later completed with graphics and statues. To prepare the building for huge exhibitions, recently it has been developed in several stages. Miró, Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh and Giacometti exhibitions were held, and late nights’s programmes of Thursdays with attendant arts are very popular. State Opera House

The Opera House is the greatest monument of the 19th century. The building was designed by Miklós Ybl architect in Neo-Renaissance style, following the model of the Parisian Opera

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House. The Opera House, inaugurated in 1884, is still the venue of splendour and excellence of art, just as it is expected from a building which hosts this grandiose genre. The interior is irradiated by red and gold glow. Marble stairs lead up the stalls from where we can enjoy Carmen, Székely Spinery and Swan lake. The auditorium is lighted by a 2.1ton chandelier, which takes 25 minutes to lower. MÜPA – Palace of Arts

Huge spaces, multi-artistic centre, this is the Palace of Arts, which has been hosting the most important institutions of the Hungarian culture since 2005. Acoustically excellent concert hall and the programme organisers’s good taste together guarantee the perfect performances. Cesaria

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Evora, Buena Vista Social Club, Marianne Faithfull have all performed here but opera, and classical music, and even contemporary dance performances can be seen. As a member of the international Ludwig chain of contemporary art, Ludwig Museum hosts the highlights of international modern art. It also provides the possibility for Hungarian artists to introduce themselves to the audience. Besides the temporary exhibitions, the museum’s collection can also be visited, inlcuding Andy Warhol’s, Roy Lichtenstein’s and Picasso’s works. Fashion Street – Cocktail of Brands

Deák Ferenc Street or the Fashion Street opens from Váci Street. One side of it is dominated by Kempinsky Hotel

Corvinus but the other side… World-famous brands follow each other, and whatever style you prefer, there will always be something to please your taste. Max Mara, Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste are for the classic fits, Puma and Benetton represent the sporty streetwear but if you have a crush on extravagance, go to Byblos for Italian fashion. The Market Hall

The political change brought along hypermarkets but luckily their appearance did not put an end to the markets. The reason is simple: Hungarians love shopping at markets. They enjoy looking at the stands, chatting about life with their favourite seller. They deeply believe that the quality of fruit and vegetables is better there than in the supermarkets. To taste the feeling, go to the Market Hall, the most beautiful of all Budapest market places. The building inaugurated in 1897 has Neo-Gothic features and is covered with Zsolnay tiles. A must visit for all shopaholics where clothes, food, wine and more are available at reasonable prices! Boscolo - a New Dimension of Luxury

Situated in the former New York Palace, Hotel Boscolo is one of Budapest’s most elegant hotels. The palace, built in 1894 in eclectic style, operated the New York Café which was the centre of cultural life in the pre-war period. The place was frequented by artists and writers then but now it is visited by lovers of Italian-style luxury. The reconstructed café shows the glamour of the original scene, the hotel itself is the castle of modern luxury. Venetian chandeliers, marble from Carrara mingles with modern interior design. Let it be furniture or just prime material, one thing is for sure: it is all about the highest standards of modern design and quality. Danube-bend

The water of Danube is squeezed between mountains between Budapest and Esztergom, at the Slovak borders. The wild landscape offers many highlights and excellent

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The beautiful marble cover, the coats of arms of the Hungarian counties, the star decorated vault of the dome, and the historical paintings covering the walls are all worth a visit

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hiking trails. This section of the river is a good adventure for leisure boaters. The region is easily accessible by passenger boat from Budapest. The first stop on the river cruise must be Szentendre Island, and namely the village itself on the shore. The place is full of old relics and excellent restaurants. Next stop can be Visegrad, where King Matthias’s Palace is worth a visit, and to finish on the north, Esztergom’s inevitable symbol, the Basilica’s tower can be seen even from far. Without doing all the sightseeing, cruising on the river is still an unforgettable experience: you can enjoy the unparalleled beauty of the river and the surrounding mountains, the rich flora and fauna.

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The Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Although being one of the biggest baths of the city, the 15-pool bath with own thermal spring – one of the hottest in Europe - can be found in the Pest side. Not only its measure but also its design is impressive. The baroque-yellow walls embrace an interior decorated with mosaic-panelled marble columns. Due to its effervescent whirlpools, the three outdoor pools offer amusement for both adults and children. The inside pools offer relaxing waters at different temperatures, curing joint diseases and sufferers of serious injuries. Its drinking water is efficient for curing osteoporosis, gastritis. Although it has several vapour-rooms, saunas, it is recommended to visit the bath on weekdays, as the party fans prefer to chill out after the Saturday night fever among the long standing walls of the Széchenyi Bath. Hungary’s symbol in Brussels’ Mini Europe Park is a model of this bath including small copies of the usual chess players in the pools. Special thanks to Qatar Airways for inviting Creme de la Creme for an exciting Media Fam Trip that was organised in January this year. Qatar Airways flies Mct-Doha-Budapest (via Bucharest) with effect from January 17, 2011 and is operated 4 times a week.

A joy called Vienna Austria’s capital city is a destination like no other providing visitors with a plethora of options to indulge in that range from history to arts, leisure to food, technology to fashion and more. In fact one visit might not just be enough to take in all the sights and sounds of this fascinating city, says Marlene J Lucas

ancy walking through a maze of narrow winding streets to discover remnants of a Roman garrison? Does exploring Gothic churches and baroque palaces give you a kick? Or is viewing priceless works of Old Masters or contemporary modern art more your thing? Perhaps you would rather be surprised by the latest in fashion, high tech gadgets, and about anything else you can think of in the plush comforts of trendy boutiques and shopping temples? Head for Vienna, Austria’s capital city, jumping with such culinary diversity that offers 6,500 restaurants, 800 coffee houses, and 111 heurigers (literally ‘this year’s’), a unique Austrian establishment where one chooses from a

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wide array of meats, salads, cheeses, breads, and beverages, feasting al fresco in lush gardens or courtyards. Springtime in Vienna can be lovely with days of sunshine, with temperatures pleasant enough to stroll in the parks and the Prater woods. From mid-May to midJune, the Wiener Festwochen, Vienna’s greatest festival with operas, plays, and performing arts takes centre stage. During the sunniest months of June, July, and August, the great theatres are closed officially, but other events take place. Open-air performances by world-class opera singers in Schoenbrunn Park, a jazz festival (Klangbogen Wien) at the Staatsoper (State Opera House) and a Summer Modern

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Springtime in Vienna can be lovely with days of sunshine, with temperatures pleasant enough to stroll in the parks and the Prater woods. From mid-May to midJune, the Wiener Festwochen, Vienna’s greatest festival with operas, plays, and performing arts takes centre stage

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Dance Extravaganza (Im Puls Tanz) at the Volkstheater (People’s Theatre) can fill your cultural calendar no end. In autumn, the theatres and opera houses reopen. Watch the Spanish Riding School performances (until end of October with tickets booked in advance) and morning training sessions of the famed snow-white Lippizaner horses, a breed originally produced by crossing Arab, Berber, and Spanish horses. By late November, many shop windows carry preChristmas displays. The Christkindlmarkt at the Rathaus (City Hall) springs up, followed by other Christmas markets at the Freyung, Heiligenkreuzerhof, and Spittelberg.

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ViSilvester (New Year’s Eve) is celebrated with concerts of the marvelous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at the Musikvereinsaal and a rousing street party with snacks, drinks, music, cabaret, and fireworks in the city centre

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The comforting aromas of roasting chestnuts, Kartoffelpuffer (Potato croquettes) and cinnamonand-clove spiced mulled wine fill the air in December. Gaily-colored neon lights twinkle from elaborate shop displays along the commercial district streets such as Mariahilferstrasse. Silvester (New Year’s Eve) is celebrated with concerts of the marvelous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at the Musikvereinsaal and a rousing street party with snacks, drinks, music, cabaret, and fireworks in the city centre. To mark Fasching (Carneval), fancy dress balls fill up the calendar of must-do events, highlighted by the Opernball (Opera Ball), one of the grandest, expensive society events, on the last Thursday before Ash Wednesday. Once you’ve decided when to go, choose your accommodations. Vienna has some of the grandest European city hotels. Have your pick from several luxury establishments, but if you want a hotel with a history right smack in the centre, choose the Grand Hotel Wien, owned by the family of the Saudi Arabian Sheikh Mohamed bin Issa Al Jaber (now with Austrian nationality). Situated on the famous Viennese Ring Boulevard (Ringstrasse), this luxurious 5-star hotel with its 205 opulently-appointed rooms and posh suites exudes an air of “belle epoque” elegance. Make it your cosy base to all the inner city’s landmark sites, trendy restaurants, as well as to the exclusive boutiques and shops in Kaerntnerstrasse, Graben, and Kohlmarkt.

April / May 2011

The Stephansdom Quarter in the centre is small, easy to reconnoiter, and largely pedestrianised. Begin with a visit to the medieval St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture when most of the city accentuates the Baroque. The Stephansdom’s 137 m (450 ft) spire dominates the skyline. Just directly opposite is the Haas Haus, a modern asymmetrical building of glittering glass and blue-green marble designed by one of Austria’s leading architects, Hans Hollein. Wander along the complex of alleys, lanes, and spacious courtyards. As legends go, Blutgasse, or Blood Lane, acquired its macabre name after a massacre in 1312 of the Knights Templar in a battle so fierce that the streets flowed with blood. However, there is no historical evidence to support this claim. One finds an impressive inner courtyard at No 9 instead. Visit the impressive excavation of the late Stone Age Roman garrison of Vindobona in Hoher Markt and watch the bronze and copper sculptural clock (Anker Uhr) at noon, where a procession of cut-out historical figures, ranging from Emperor Marcus Aurelius, Duke Rudolph IV to Joseph Haydn, glide from one end to the other to the sound of organ music. Hop over to the Hofburg, the winter residence of the Habsburg emperors, originally a medieval castle which grew into a series of buildings that now houses several museums, including the Sisi Museum, Imperial Appartments, and Imperial Silver Collection of the Schatzkammer (Treasury).

More churches, a baroque plague column (Pestsauele), palaces of the nobility, houses with some of the finest baroque facades, remains of a Roman encampment on Michaelerplatz are interspersed among elegant shops, art galleries, and coffee houses in this quarter. Museum buffs will have a difficult time choosing which to visit first among the impressive number of museums in Vienna, some of which are of international importance, while the rest are of specialist or local interest. Albrecht Duerer’s “The Hare” can be viewed in the Albertina Museum. Don’t forget the picture gallery in the Kunsthistorisches Museum which features one of the best collections of Flemish and Venetian Old Masters. Check out the Venus of Willendorf, a late Stone Age figurine found at Willendorf, close to Vienna. It is housed in the Naturhistorisches Museum (Natural History Museum). Or visit the Sigmund Freud museum, showcasing memorabilia from the father of psychoanalysis. Lovingly restored, this 19th century apartment house on Berggasse No. 19 was where Freud lived, worked, and received patients from 1891 until his departure from Vienna in 1938. Hang out and soak in the sun on one of the bananashaped blocks at the MuseumsQuartier, where you find the box-shaped Leopold Museum, displaying the largest collection of Austrian masters of the late 19th and 20th centuries. Themed guided city walks ranging from discovering medieval Vienna, the Jugendstil movement, or the hidden places of the famous film “The Third Man” are on offer daily. Or take a horse-drawn open carriage (fiaker) ride along the Ring Boulevard, a relaxing way to get around! When hunger pangs strike, enjoy different types of coffee, cake, and pastry at a traditional Kaffeehaus. For centuries, coffee houses have been an essential part of Viennese life. Each coffee house has its own unique ambience and attraction. The Hawelka, which serves hot jam-filled buns (Buchteln) late at night, or the Sperl for its fresh Apfelstrudel in the late morning are places to try. A waiter, almost certainly dressed in a tuxedo (especially in the grander establishments), will take your coffee order, which comes served with a plain glass of water. There is an extraordinary variety of coffee available. An Eiskaffee (iced coffee with whipped cream), or a Melange (like a Cappuccino) can be addictive, once tried! One of Vienna’s most popular addresses for cake is the six-star Hotel Sacher, synonymous with the world famous Sacher Torte, a rich chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam beneath the smooth, rich chocolate icing. Or head for Demel Konditorei, renowned for its superb cakes. Others to try are Konditorei Oberlaa or Lehmann. Buy handmade, tiny Altmann & Kuehne chocolates, which come in beautiful miniature boxes shaped like a chest of drawers, a book, or treasure box. If you cannot fit in all the sights in one trip, you have just got to promise to return to Vienna!

April / May 2011

Travel & Lifestyle

destination

Postcards from Venice Sailing along the palazzo-lined Grand Canal under quaint bridges, you discover the enchantment of living La Dolce Vita while turning pages of history in Venice. Madhulika Mohta tours the picturesque Italian city

April / May 2011

lright…so it’s a cliché to say that you fall in love with Venice at first sight…but I did. What’s more astonishing is that my very left-brained husband did too (he had taken considerably longer to fall in love with me, come to think of it!). But then Venice with its aura of fading, decadent glamour, the sniff of a mystery around the corner, is truly irresistible. We stayed at the historic Hotel Metropole, a former orphanage where, in 1703 Vivaldi taught music. Like all tourists, the first thing we did was take a vaporetto (water bus) to the nerve centre of the city - San Marco, the expansive waterfront piazza housing Venice’s emblem - a winged lion with a sword, the symbol of St. Mark. The work on the Basilica started in 828 A.D. when two Venetian merchants stole the Saint’s remains from Alexandria. The exterior of this iconic monument is a gothic masterpiece of columns, arches and spires. Our guide pointed out the relief of an old man biting his hand - supposedly the church architect. We stood overawed by his enormous creation with its five gigantic domes and 8,000 sq. metres of golden mosaics. Our guide attested to what we had heard rumoured - all the tiny squares lean in different directions to best reflect the light! The interior was as grandly captivating with perfectly symmetrical white marble and behind the altar - the famed Pala d’oro made from hundreds of pieces of enamel on gold leaf, encrusted with 1927 emeralds, rubies, pearls, sapphires and other gemstones.

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A visit to the Museo Correr revealed Venice’s history - so absorbing was the tale that we returned to the Palazzo on the morrow to take the Secret Itineraries tour tracing the footsteps of yesteryear aristocrats through secret passageways and hidden chambers characteristic of a city where masks were an everyday tradition April / May 2011

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The Palazzo Ducale - home of Venice’s elected Doges, judiciary, bureaucracy and the prisons is a testimony to the power and prosperity of the Serenissima (the most serene republic of Venice)

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Do pay extra for visiting the upstairs loggia where a museum exhibits the treasure brought back from the Fourth Crusade and the original of the four gold and bronze horses that face the square. Making our way through the throngs of tourists, we entered the Campanile San Marco. A three meter high rotating golden statue of Gabriel tops this 97metre tower. The five bells in the tower are no less famous and have their own names and functions. At the Torre dell’Orologio our guide showed us the workings of the elaborate clock that still marks the hours in the piazza. It was early evening as we made our way to Caffè Florian, dating to 1720 (famed to be a favourite hunting ground of Casanova, that legendary seducer of Venice). We soaked in the history and ordered Bellinis to celebrate our first day in Venice.

April / May 2011

Another day and another monument…but oh what a monument! The Palazzo Ducale - home of Venice’s elected Doges, judiciary, bureaucracy and the prisons is a testimony to the power and prosperity of the Serenissima (the most serene republic of Venice). Our guide again gave us an interesting aside: one of Doge’s ceremonial duties was to celebrate the marriage of Venice with the sea by casting a ring into the Adriatic! The original Porta della Carta or ‘paper door’ was where decrees used to be nailed. The portico’s 36 capitals, with carvings of animals, seasons, allegorical representations of vice and virtue and moral sculpture like the Judgement of Solomon shows the mix of Renaissance, Gothic and Byzantine influences. The red marbled ninth arch was the site for pronouncing death sentences and climbing

Sansovino’s staircase with the giant statues of Neptune and Mars clearly symbolises Venice’s dominion of land and sea. The Scala d’Oro glowing with gilt stuccoes on the ceiling leads to the first-floor loggia where doges were crowned. The Anticollegio with its four Tintorettos (note Mercury and the Graces) and Veronese’s Rape of Europa was aptly used to receive foreign dignitaries. Titian’s ‘Doge Kneeling before Faith’ is astounding. But it was the Sala del Maggior Consiglio (where 2000 aristocrats used to meet) is what I found really incredible. Veronese’s sublime ‘Deification of Venice’ on the ceiling and Tintoretto’s mammoth ‘Paradise’ –the biggest oil painting in the world makes this even grander than the offerings of Rome. The hall has a painted frieze of 76 doges (except the 55th who was discovered plotting a coup and was beheaded - a black veil covers his place).

A visit to the Museo Correr revealed Venice’s history so absorbing was the tale that we returned to the Palazzo on the morrow to take the Secret Itineraries tour tracing the footsteps of yesteryear aristocrats through secret passageways and hidden chambers characteristic of a city where masks were an everyday tradition. The Secret Chancellery whose cupboards once contained all the documents of the republic, the ‘Inquisitors’ Room’ whose beautiful Tintoretto seemed to mock what the three men did during investigations - using torture in the Sala del Tormento that connected to the famous Piombi – the prisons. It gave me goosebumps to visit the very cell from where Casanova made his escape - the story of which was immortalized in his memoirs (published 1788). From here we went over the Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs. There was a tiny slit of a window and one could if not hear the sighs, at least feel the despair of the condemned as they espied a sight they would never see again…blue skies and open water. On our way back we saw the “Mouth for secret accusations”, still visible in the Hall of the Compass. Emerging into the fresh air from Venice’s dark depths, we followed in Casanova’s footsteps and hired a gondola. Our rather handsome oarsman took us past palazzos and campaniles and under quaint bridges in the bylanes away from the Grand Canal. And like the locals, we kissed under the Bridge of Sighs for legend says doing so grants you eternal love. We got off at the Zattere promenade, and leisurely strolling through Dorsoduro, discovered great contemporary jewellery at the Sent boutique. A vaporetto ride and we reached Fiaschetteria Toscana in Cannaregio for a taste of Venetian food (the ‘Radicchio trevigiano’ smoked ricotta cheese is highly recommended). The next morning was taken up exploring Rialto, seeing Venetians buying fresh produce, chatting and relaxing. Around mid-day we drifted into a local bácaro called Muro Vino e Cucina for brunch finished off with a truly divine Tiramisu, that sublime Italian dessert which many sources claim originated in Venice and not Tuscany. We then roamed through the shops lining the Ponte di Rialto - the oldest and most famous Venetian bridge. Sunset saw us at Al Mercà downing spritzes – the classic Venetian cocktail after which we aimlessly wandered around…getting lost amongst the labyrinthine alleyways is enchantingly enjoyable in Venice, partly because of the associated thrill of discovery like the one we felt when we stumbled across La Bitta, a small eatery off Campo San Barnaba with its superb gnocchi which we had for dinner. We had signed up for a walking tour of Venice at night and were regaled with the tales of ghosts and gruesome deeds along the Street of the Assassins. A little off the beaten track, we visited Arsenal the next day. This historic shipyard employing 15,000 workers was the source of Venice’s immense power. The 15th century Dogana (customs house) next door stands out for its

April / May 2011

triangular form reminiscent of a ship’s bow. Later we visited the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute erected in gratitude for Venice’s deliverance from the Plague. From the rooftop bar of the Hilton, we saw the last rays of sunlight reflected in the murky waters, producing a trademark Tintoretto effect of mystical light and proceeded to Teatro Fenice to catch a grand operatic performance followed by the best food in Venice at Da Fiore in San Polo. Our angel of a guide or rather guardian angel took us to visit the lesser known of Il Friar the next morning with Titian’s The Assumption of the Virgin over the altar and onto the Fondaco dei Turchi. Another gem we exploreed was Ca d’Oro - worth a visit even if you are not terribly interested in art. Murano was a cornucopia of colours – glistening and swirling as though trying to break out of their glass encasing. It’s worth it to pay the fee for a demonstration and almost a pity to watch the blower destroy the demonstration pieces. A little further afield (actually a-water) is Burano with its brightly painted houses resembling a picture postcard sent home by a travelling British scion two centuries ago and of course the lace is simply exquisite. The Lace Museum is a rare sight and Torcello’s sleepy isle provided a pleasant change of pace. It had been an enchanting week and as we left the “drawing room of Europe”, (so said Napolean), I knew this was a love affair lasting a lifetime and that I would return to experience more of the myth that is Venice.

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En passe

While in Venice, reserve a couple of days to admire the Picassos and Pollocks at the Guggenheim or Koons and Damien Hirst at Palazzo Grassi. The Grandi Gallerie dell’Accademia deserves a day of its own to do justice to such fascinating depictions like Carpaccio’s Miracle of the Relic on the Rialto Bridge, or Titian’s Virgin. Other treasures include Veronese, Bellini and Longhi and perhaps the only Canalettos still in Venice. There are fashionable ateliers in Rialto and Dorsoduro. Quirky handmade glass at Constantinis is recommended as are the silks and velvets at Gaggio. For that must have Venetian souvenir – a mask, enter a certified workshop in Rialto. These decorative face candy are of specific types like the black ‘bauta’ or the white ‘larva’ or the ‘Colombina’ used in Venetian comedies. Vivaldi’s music, Casanova’s adventures and Canaletto’s perfectly painted lagoons are brought back to life during the Carnevale with its masked balls and Gondola races. Dating to 1268 and revived in 1980, this unique event transports you to a land of make-believe – the hedonistic and intriguing Venice of 300 years ago. Check www.hotelmetropole.com for double rooms from €210; www.venice-carnival-italy.com for a full programme of events and costume-hire options. For more information on Venice, visit www.turismovenezia.it, tour arrangements were handled by www.viator.com

The Secret Chancellery whose cupboards once contained all the documents of the republic, the ‘Inquisitors’ Room’ whose beautiful Tintoretto seemed to mock what the three men did during investigations

April / May 2011

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contests

Salalah Sojourn

Win

a two-night stay FOR TWO AT THE IDYLLIC Marriott Resort at Mirbat beach! We are even giving away two air tickets, courtesy Travel City!

Spend two idyllic days at the beautiful Marriott Resort at Mirbat Beach by the shores of the Arabian Sea. The resort is situated away from the hustle and bustle, on the white sandy beaches of Mirbat Cove and at the foot of Jebel Samhan. The luxurious rooms and suites of the Marriott Resort at Mirbat Beach offer sea and mountain views. The resort also has chalets set away from the main property that provides for a tranquil stay. The Marriott Resort at Mirbat Beach is the first Marriott hotel in the Sultanate. The resort is home to Frankincense Spa by Chavana located just by the beach perfect to unwind from all the city stress. Marriott Resort at Mirbat Beach and Travel City together with CrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me offers one lucky reader the chance to experience this unique resort.

April / May 2011

All you have to do is to choose the correct answer from the options provided:

Marriott Resort at Mirbat Beach celebrated its ……. Anniversary recently. a) First b) Second c) Fifth

Send your answer to competitions@cremedelacremeoman.com with Salalah Sojourn as the Subject. The prize includes stay for two persons for two nights at Marriott Resort at Mirbat Beach in a Deluxe Room with breakfast as well as return Economy class tickets to Salalah from Muscat. The prize has to be availed before June 30, 2011.

COMPETITION RULES •

Entry for Crème de la Crème’s Salalah Sojourn competition should be sent by e-mail (stating the entrant’s full name, address and telephone number) and must correctly mention the answer.

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Winners will be judged at the discretion of Crème de la Crème. The decision of the judges will be final and binding. No correspondence will be entertained. Only one correct answer will be registered per entrant per month.

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The last day of receiving entries is at May 20, 2011. Winners will be intimated over the telephone or by email.

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The entries must be in English and complete in all respects. Incomplete entries will not be considered for a prize.

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Crème de la Crème is not responsible for late e-mails.

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Prizes will not be transferred or exchanged for cash or any other item. No refunds or credits for changes or cancellations are allowed. All other expenses and costs, which are not specified as being included in the prize, are the sole responsibility of the winner.

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All prizes must be redeemed prior to the expiry date.

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Taxes if any on the prize are the sole responsiblity of the winner.

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The Salalah Sojourn competition is open to readers of Crème de la Crème who are 21 or older on the date of entry and are ordinarily residents of Sultanate of Oman.

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Employees of Crème de la Crème, participating promotional agencies, contributors to Crème de la Crème and the families of any of those above are not eligible to contest.

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All entries to the Salalah Sojurn competition become the sole property of Crème de la Crème and will neither be acknowledged nor returned.

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Acceptance of the prize constitutes consent for the use of the winner’s name and likeness and those of his/her travelling companion for editorial, advertising and publicity purposes.

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Crème de la Crème will not be liable for any loss, damage or expense incurred by a prize winner or by his/her travelling companion (for example, costs of repatriation) as a consequence of any party participating in providing the prize becoming insolvent or entering into liquidation or bankruptcy.

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Crème de la Crème reserves the right to amend any or all of the terms of this contest, or the prizes on offer, at any time without prior notice. All disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of Oman courts only.

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Contestants, by entering the competition, agree to be bound by the above rules, terms and conditions. Please indicate if you do not want to be added to our mailing list, which is sometimes made available to carefully screened companies.

April / May 2011

The magic of

April / May 2011

Disneyland

Disneyland Paris promises a holiday that both adults as well as kids would enjoy and remember. CrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me presents the highlights of the dream holiday

April / May 2011

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If you want to slow things down fly with Dumbo and Peter Pan in Fantasyland or gently cruise around the river of the far west on one of the elegant steam boats in Frontierland

he destination to head to with your kids this year is Disneyland Paris. The dream holiday destination for not just kids but adults too celebrate the new Disney Magical Moments Festival For the occasion Mickey and his friends, the Disney Princesses, Peter Pan, Alice and many, many others have created the best ever collection of unforgettable Disney moments full of fun, happiness and smiles just for you and your family. Come along with your little ones to the most royal of royal invitations and share an enchanted moment with a Disney Princess. Follow Peter Pan and his band of pirates in a real crocodile snappin’ adventure. Tune up the tam-tams and get down in the jungle. If you are lucky it’s gonna be jumping with Baloo, King Louie, Timon and wise old Rafiki. Lose yourselves in the Wonderful World of Alice and the Mad Hatter, but whose side are you going to be on? Will the Queen steal your heart? Or perhaps you’ll prefer the Hatter’s madcap mayhem. Get your adrenaline pumping during the jaw-dropping, fire-leaping and wheel-screeching car stunt show with a new special appearance of your friends from Cars 2! And once a day gather in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle to share a special magical moment with Mickey in his quest to become a master magician in a spell binding show starring magical Disney characters, Princes and Princesses.

April / May 2011

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Disneyland Park offers a huge range of attractions and fabulous parades for kids of all ages. Divided into 5 themed areas the park includes restaurants, shops and attractions from the exhilarating Space Mountain: Mission 2 to the wildest ride in the Wild West, Big Thunder Mountain. If you want to slow things down fly with Dumbo and Peter Pan in Fantasyland or gently cruise around the river of the far west on one of the elegant steam boats in Frontierland. Meet all your favourite Disney characters. Get a photo on main street USA with some of your favourite Disney characters. Then be taken “to infinity and beyond!” on Buzz Lightyear Lazer Blast (inspired by Disney-Pixar’s Toy Story 2) in Discoveryland. Walt Disney Studios. Step through the Studio gates and let your imagination soar. Time to immerse yourself in the never-ending, always fascinating world of movies, animation and television. Four production zones within the park featuring rides, shows and entertainment with one single focus; entertainment for the whole family. Choosing to stay at the resort can truly turn a weekend break into a magic experience. Thanks to the fact that there are hotels to suit every budget and taste - there is something for everyone. Each choice comes with its own magical experience. Within the seven onsite hotels, guests will find

numerous restaurants ranging from buffet style food courts to formal table service. In addition each hotel has its own pub and gift shop. But whether you choose to stay in a wild west town or a rustic hunting lodge, a big apple skyscraper or a Mexican pueblo, you can be assured of one thing... Disney’s outstanding quality and famous love for the magical details will make your trip a truly unforgettable one. For more details about Disneyland Paris and the Disney Magical Moments Festival contact Khimji’s House of Travel.

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Disney’s outstanding quality and famous love for the magical details will make your trip a truly unforgettable one April / May 2011

Business & Finance

Economy April / May 2011

Business & Finance

Economy

The Catalyst Climate change has set the climatologists against the economists; one accused of ignorance and the other of impracticality. Madhulika Mohta reports on how the two are interlinked

he economic turmoil of Japan’s worst earthquake and tsunami was felt in countries as far flung as Germany and Saudi Arabia. Stock markets tumbled and supply chains went awry. With major TV channels showing endless documentaries on the 2012 doomsday prophecies, international media once again started buzzing about climate change - Australia’s 7 years of drought; Pakistan and Europe hit by devastating floods, USA with hurricanes and wild fires…all events far more extreme than ever before and occurring with alarmingly increased frequency. These were indeed cases of Force Majeure but…perhaps a man-made one.

April / May 2011

The Cause

Scientific evidence links climate change to the increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters. Besides natural catastrophes, daily and seasonal fluctuations in rainfall, temperature and wind are being observed across the globe. Though climate change has become synonymous with global warming, it has many variables like urbanisation, agriculture, etc interacting in a complex pattern – a pattern that is facing disruption through human activities that produce carbon and emit greenhouse gases (GHG). And as producer and consumer, the business sector is the key dramatis personae in this Second Act of Mother Nature.

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Institutional investors can manage climate risk in their asset allocation matrix through the ‘TIP Framework’ which assesses low carbon technologies (Tchnology), physical impact on investments (Impacts), and global policy (Policy)

The Effect

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Climate change has set the climatologists against the economists; one accused of ignorance and the other of impracticality. A 2001 UN study estimated global warming related natural disasters could cost the world USD 300 bn per annum by 2050. The Stern Review unabashedly termed climate change as “the greatest and widest ranging market failure ever seen” putting the cost to the world economy at 5% to 20% of global output. Even 5% (around equal to annual economic growth) will bring a perenneial recession and developing countries will be the hardest hit. For example, Maddison reckons total cost at just 0.1% of global GDP, but South America loses 14.6%. Given the strong growth of many emerging economies, such losses will disproportionately affect the world’s economic balance. Further, economic losses will arise by affecting not just current assets but the planning of future business creating a multiplier effect. As the situation deteriorates, more regulations will force businesses to change. Even minor changes in product standards may completely change the competitive scenario or considerably lower profit margins. Another dimension of impact will be added through changing consumer behaviour with increasing preference for green products and services. Such preference will also affect investment decisions thus directly affecting money markets. Dr. Pam McElwee estimates that climate change may pose a risk of upto 10% of investment portfolios worldwide. The Protagonist

While the quantum of risk remains unclear, it is now acknowledged that there are six major types of vulnerabilities for business: Physical – sector (e.g. Adventure Tourism) or location (e.g. Coastal) dependent; leading to asset damage and reduced availability of natural resources. Security – competition induced conflict situations in vulnerable areas (e.g. Africa) leading to large-scale raw materials shortages. Regulatory – international policies and more stringent standards or environmental levies by governments; leading to higher costs and changes in the competitive field.

Financial - increased insurance premiums and cost of financing, loss of revenue from affected regions / reduced demand for carbon-intensive products; affecting cash flows. Competitive - changing consumer preferences; will change the rules of the game, force innovation and bring new competition. Reputational – intangibles like brands account for upto70% of a company’s value; non-green companies will suffer even face difficulty in recruiting quality employees. Litigation – companies face risk of class action suits if they are proven to neglect obvious abatement actions. With so much at stake, the near hysteria of the political and consumer classes is perhaps understandable. Early corporate action can limit costs of climate change to about 1% of global GDP. The Cure

Beyond macro policies like the Kyoto Protocol, corporates are faced with two strategies: abatement or preventive and adjustment or coping. The need is to move beyond a social responsibility mindset and use strategic, operational and marketing practices to improve the bottomline the green way. Setting specific GHG reduction targets and developing strategic partnerships across the value chain to identify cost-effective emission reductions can be effective. Businesses are increasingly witnessing substantial returns on investment by embedding sustainable practices into the supply chain. An A.T. Kearney 2011 report claims that 50% of large businesses and 25% of their suppliers achieved cost savings through carbon management activities. Investments in clean energy and efficiency projects that meet established IRR requirements can increase innovation and capture new business opportunities. Larger operations can look at offshoring to less carbon-intensive areas of the world, bringing in green credentials as well as green bucks through reduced operating costs. Reporting on carbon footprints in forums like the Carbon Disclosure Project can gain investor / consumer confidence and strengthen the brand. The operational response could include anything as mundane as encouraging a paperless office or changing company car loan policy to favour fuel-efficient vehicles.

April / May 2011

Making a virtue out of a necessity to cut costs, such actions will reduce expenses, utility bills and gain responsibility credentials. Green offices are also proven to give greater employee productivity. Institutional investors can manage climate risk in their asset allocation matrix through the ‘TIP Framework’ which assesses low carbon technologies (Technology), physical impact on investments (Impacts), and global policy (Policy). Financial markets have come up with several instruments to help corporates manage environmental risks and opportunities. As an additional benefit, investors can gain from low correlation with existing asset classes in their portfolio. The market for certified emission reductions (CERs, Carbon Exchanges and Environmental loans) help integrate emerging markets in the global climate protection efforts and accelerate transfer of know-how. The number of climate related certificates, derivate instruments on emission certificates debt financing schemes and the public and private equity funds that invest in these are growing leading to efficient capital allocation for the most promising abatement and adjustment strategies. Catastrophe risk transfer instruments like disaster bonds, and derivative instruments for hedging weather risks help provide more efficient coverage and risk sharing for corporates. Whether you are a beverage maker, run an adventure tourism company, a hedge fund investor or a trader in construction materials, climate change is changing what you do. We are at the tipping point and to be successful in a low-carbon future, companies must innovate, adopt and adapt “next practice” and prepare for the day after tomorrow. 86

April / May 2011

Case Actions

Caterpillar’s remanufacturing division revitalizing old machines and equipment using them to give “CAT Certified Rebuild” products that sell for half the cost of a new model thus attracting more customers while saving 10% on its energy usage and reducing 10% its carbon output. GE seeks to capture new markets by setting targets to increase investment in R&D for cleaner technologies through its ecomagination campaign. PepsiCo has got over $60 million in energy savings opportunities and a 16% reduction in per-unit energy use as a result of its carbon management strategy and proprietary energy assessment tool. Time Inc set a GHG reduction target for its paper suppliers leveraging impact along its supply chain. SunEdison, pioneer of the “solar services” model arranges for the financing, design, equipment supply and construction of solar PV arrays on top of “hosts’” rooftops. The hosts merely lease and do not own.

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Automobilia

Drive w First Look April / May 2011

AUTOMOBILIA

Drive

Touring with BMW The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a first of its kind automobile from the German luxury brand. Anne Kurian gets behind the wheel of the luxury turismo

April / May 2011

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The 5-Series Gran Turismo is equipped with the powerful V8 engine. Together with the twin turbochargers, the automotive creates a maximum torque of 600 Nm within a range of 1, 750 to 4,500 rpm

he BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo advertisement has an interesting tagline – When was the last time you experienced something for the first time? It got me thinking, searching for incidents where there were ‘first time’ moments. I was glad to note that there were quite a few. Research shows that these first time experiences elevates your self-esteem, brings about excitement and opens up the mind’s potential to do things. BMW has a good enough reason for using the statement as its catchy tagline. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a first of its kind automobile from the German luxury brand. A combination of a luxury sedan and SUV, the 5 Series Gran Turismo is a vehicle that embodies versatility and thereby caters to a wider variety of audience.

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Even with its concept design, it is easy to identify the 5 Series Gran Turismo as a member of the BMW family. Though it is called the 5 Series, the automotive has the luxe trappings of the immensely popular 7 Series merged with the X3. A crossover may seem to be the right term, but then it does feel a bit off mark too. I’d rather refrain from addressing the 5-Series Gran Turismo as just a crossover. BMW surely has opened a niche market with the automotive. Powered to perform

First things first! The 5-Series Gran Turismo is equipped with the powerful V8 engine. Together with the twin turbochargers, the automotive creates a maximum torque of 600 Nm within a range of 1, 750 to 4,500 rpm. And that’s

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some serious power we are talking about! Zipping up the Qantab road was an effortless task for this Bimmer. The power transmission in the 5-Series Gran Turismo is adrenalin boosting! The automotive includes the new eight-speed automatic transmission Steptronic, which translates to faster speeds and more efficient cruising. It’s not secret that gran turismo cars are adept at cruising. The 5-Series Gran Turismo is a dream on the roads and though we didn’t have the time to drive it on a longer route, first impressions say that this beauty will take on long distances with gusto. Classic BMW

The designers have elongated the body lines of the 5-Series Gran Turismo fitting it with a coupe-roof with similarities to the luxe feel of 7-Series and the comfort of an SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle. The DNA of a BMW runs through the 5-Series Gran Turismo although it is characteristically different from all the models. The automotive’s short overhangs and elongated bonnet are classic BMW designs. The 5-Series Gran Turismo has been designed to captivate with its sleek styling and imposing body. The coupe silhouette does soften the lines a bit but once it hits the tarmac, this is one aggressive turismo. Adding to the coupelike feel are the frameless windows. Cocooned in comfort

Inside, the 5-Series Gran Turismo has all the trappings for a comfortable ride. There is ample seating space in the rear; what’s more, the rear seats can be moved individually

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Completely integrated with the car’s electronic dynamic control systems, the four-wheel drive technology delivers record levels of performance on all terrains and in all conditions via continuous and intelligent predictive torque distribution to all four wheels

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backwards and forwards. BMW sure knows how to keep customers satisfied! The driver’s and front passenger seats are higher than in a sedan and also includes thigh rest, particularly helpful for those long drives. I noticed that getting in and out of the car was not pretty easy, which is often not the case when the seats are larger or higher than usual. A definite highlight of the automotive! The rear seats fold down; great design tactics from BMW allows the boot’s 430-litre capacity to be expanded to 1,650 litres. And if that’s not enough, the back seats can be adjusted to the passengers comfort. BMW has installed an extended sunroof in the 5-Series Gran Turismo, and going by the looks, it has to be one of the largest even if in the SAV category. The interior of the vehicle is roomy and the backseat passengers will surely enjoy the ample leg space. Incidentally, there are only two seats in the rear. The Gran Turismo comes with many of the EfficientDynamics technologies that can be found in other BMWs. Brake Energy Regeneration, which recharges the vehicle’s battery during engine over-run, is standard. Drive Dynamic Control allows the driver to fine-tune the chassis

configuration by specifying Normal, Comfort or Sport settings. Foot on the pedal

Once we left the showroom, there was no stopping the tourismo. Or me. The automotive cruised through the busy roads as well as uphill climbs with equal ease. Though a fairly large vehicle, navigating the 5-Series Gran Turismo is not so tough. It moves with dexterity and the parking sensors ensure there are no unnecessary bumps! The marked change in the vehicle’s ground handling when shifting from Normal to Comfort or Sport is noticeable. Roundabouts, sudden turns, downhill descends or even free cruising was handled with aplomb by this Bimmer. The BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo is a stylish, adaptive and energetic automotive; the German luxury manufacturer gets extra points for creating a vehicle that is in a niche of its own. And if conformity is not your standard, then this BMW could very well up your alley! Photography location courtesy: The Wave, Muscat Special thanks to TRACCS Oman April / May 2011

AUTOMOBILIA

FIRST LOOK

A New Player The all new Audi7 delivers hatchback practicality at its most attractiveâ&#x20AC;Ś recently launched in the Oman market, the car has been well-received by auto enthusiasts

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The settings of the new Audi A7 have been specially developed for the Middle East, particularly Completely integrated with regards to the climate conditions. with the car’s electronic dynamic control systems, the four-wheel drive technology delivers record levels of performance on all terrains and in all conditions via continuous and intelligent predictive torque distribution to all four wheels

he new Audi A7 is a five-door luxury-class coupe with a unique combination of prestige, sportiness and functionality which blends together the benefits of a saloon, a coupe and a station wagon. On the interior Audi again gives proof of its leading role in automotive design. Even the tiniest details and the use of high-grade new materials document the craftsmanship level of care with which Audi builds its cars. The long rear hatch opens high to reveal a luggage compartment that is very easy to load and offers excellent functionality at 535-liter capacity. The settings of the new Audi A7 have been specially developed for the Middle East, particularly with regards to the climate conditions. The extensive standard equipment includes the four-zone automatic air conditioning, electrically adjustable front seats with memory function for driver seat, a multifunction leather steering wheel with

shift paddles, DVD changer and Bluetooth mobile phone interface, heat insulated windows and a sunscreen for the rear window, glass sunroof, electric boot lid and key-less go, 18 inch alloy wheels, the parking system plus with rearview camera as well as Audi pre sense basic and a 5 year service package. The Sportback concept is equipped with continuous damping control, allowing drivers’ to adjust the vehicle’s dynamic characteristics. The driver is assisted by electromechanical power steering—evidence that the A7 is closer to the upcoming A6 than to the new A8, which keeps hydraulic assistance. It also means that a self-parking aid can be easily integrated, which wouldn’t work on the A8. Thankfully, the A7 concept has lost its glitzy 21-inch show wheels in favor of 20s, which provide a more realistic driving experience. The series production model will likely be offered with 18-, 19-, and 20-inch wheels as well.

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The A7 will be slightly more expensive than the next-generation A6—which has an identical wheelbase measurement that Audi is not yet willing to release—but positioned a bit lower than the status-oriented A8. Design Essence

Audi is once again breaking new ground in design with the A7, whose lines convey aesthetic athleticism and elegance on a grand scale. The five-door coupe measures 4.97 meters in length and 1.91 meters in width, but only 1.42 meters in height. Its long engine hood, the sportily flowing C-pillars and the sharply dropping rear create a dynamic overall impression. The A7 is an Audi in new top form. Its low, dynamically drawn roofline lends it the character of a coupe. The design presents the aesthetics of modern technology in every detail – in the sharp, precise stroke of the lines, for instance, or in the athletically taut surfaces. Up front, optional LED headlights accentuate the distinctive expression. They use

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light-emitting diodes to provide all functions and consume little energy. LED tail lights are standard. Opulence and Simplicity

In the interior, even the tiniest details document the care with which Audi builds its cars. The quality of the workmanship is on a craftsman’s level. High-grade new materials such as layered wood veneers are a treat for the senses, and an optional ambient lighting system adds highlights to the interior. The front seats are available with optional ventilation and massage functions. The five-door coupe from Audi combines supreme long-distance comfort with a sporty character. The interior noise level is very low even at high speeds, with the engine providing subtle acoustic feedback as their power unfolds. Behind the excellent acoustics are new structural design methods, the bundled use of high-end materials such as microfiber fleeces, and the systematic conceptual design of multifunction parts, such as acoustically active wheel well

In the interior, even the tiniest details document the care with which Audi builds its cars. The quality of the workmanship is on a craftsman’s level.

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input. The driver can use the touchpad to perform numerous functions conveniently and intuitively, such as using his or her finger to write the letters of the destination or the digits of the telephone number. Part of the fine range of hi-fi choices are the Bose sound system and the Advanced Sound System from Bang & Olufsen, which features 1,300 watts of power and 15 speakers. The adaptive cruise control with stop & go function recognizes complex scenarios and combined with the Audi pre sense safety system can reduce the severity of accidents and their consequences. Cultivated Power

The A7 rolls on large wheels measuring from 18 to 20 inches in diameter. Its links are made of aluminum; the newly developed power steering features a highly efficient electromechanical drive. The Audi drive select dynamics system is standard and can be supplemented by the optional adaptive air suspension with controlled damping. The dynamic steering system, which varies its steering ratio according to the speed being driven, will follow somewhat later.

shells and underbody panels. Excellent body characteristics

The A7 offers a new level of technical intelligence with logical, self-explanatory ergonomics. The optimized MMI operating system comes standard; among the optional equipment is a new head-up display that projects the most important information on the windshield. The MMI touch operating system combines a hard drive navigation system with the groundbreaking convenience of touchpad

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The A7 rolls on large wheels measuring from 18 to 20 inches in diameter. Its links are made of aluminum; the newly developed power steering features a highly efficient electromechanical drive

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A non-profit organization offering a wide range of high-quality and exclusive handcrafted products interpreting the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and culture. Bring home the essence of Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich heritage from a range of classy yet traditional products and at the same time turn your shopping passion into a cause by helping our craftspeople and artists. The Gallery works closely with artisans from the province and features products that are designed by them.

Jawharat A' Shati Complex Next to Muscat Intercontinental Hotel Tel. 24696974

Art & Design

Impressions w Canvas April / May 2011

Art & Design

Impressions

A Genius at Work Artistic, ambitious and extremely talented is what best describes this young sculptress. Domenica De Ferranti was in town to soak in the Omani culture and life. Her next collection will have a flavour of Oman in it. Sudipta Dasgupta reports

rom all the artists that I have met and interviewed earlier, this has to be the one I will cherish for a long time to come. Domenica De Ferranti, in her early twenties oozes magnificent talent and creativity which in due time can take the art world by storm. Raised and studied in Italy, De Ferranti returned to the UK where she now works from her studio in West London. She recently had her debut London exhibition which received rave reviews from the art fraternity of London. De Ferranti was in town last month to soak in the culture and traditions of Oman. Her visit to the Omani forts, Bahla town, the Wahiba sands, Omani villages and the famous horse race was enough to inspire her to create a collection dedicated exclusively for Oman. Currently De Ferranti undertakes several commissions in sculpture, charcoal and oil. In a candid interview, she tells us her love for sculpting,

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This is my first travel experience starting with Oman. It seems to be the perfect place to start as it has an amazing blend of culture, heritage and modernity

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and her foray into art and other interesting vignettes from her life. Inspiring Oman …

Naturalistic form of art is what I learnt while I was in art school in Florence almost a year and half ago. My plans changed after that as I wanted to travel as much as I could to sculpt different people, places and moments. This is my first travel experience starting with Oman. It seems to be the perfect place to start as it has an amazing blend of culture, heritage and modernity. It also felt like a very safe place to be as I have come here all by myself – the experience has been wonderful till now. The start of my journey …

I started doing portrait paintings when I was in art school and that is how I got involved in art basically. I also spent some time in other parts of Italy where I learnt how April / May 2011

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to carve marble and also did a lot of charcoal portraits and drawing. I realised that my heart was in sculpting and not that much in painting. This is me …

My work is a direct reflection of who I am and what I can do. There are several artists that I do look up to but I don’t copy them. Also I interact a lot with different artists and friends who are artists too. I like to call my work of art – ‘Impressionist Sculpture’. I try to capture these beautiful little moments which could be ugly, sad or funny sometimes. For example my latest collection will include village children, a man with a wild goat, Omani women all of which I came across during my visit to different places in Oman. I like to sculpt real life moments such as these. My work …

I would love to come back to this country and have my exhibition at some point of my life. Currently I am saving up all my memories into these small plasticine sketches which I will then make large sculptures out of once I go back to London. I can’t really afford to carry all the sculptures back and forth and that is why I do my initial sketches with plasticine which are nothing but miniatures.

Dealing with subjects …

I work with people and real life moments always. During my stay in Muscat I was fascinated by the village men, women and children and wanted to sculpt them. I don’t work well with cameras because if I try to take pictures as notes for my sculptures, my subjects feel intimidated. The whole energy and feeling changes and I lose out on the mood that I wanted to capture initially. I prefer making instant sketches and then making miniatures out of plasticine. News Vistas …

This is my first ever trip that involves sculpting. I hope to have the sculpture exhibition on Oman end of this year in England and hopefully after that I will travel again to Syria and Jordan to understand their culture and life and ultimately have them sculpted as well. Materials for sculpture …

Back in England I sculpt out of clay and then bronze them. Here in Oman I tried to sculpt with the clay that you get in Bahla. It was quite interesting and difficult to use in the beginning as the sand here is very loose. It is basically pottery clay which does not have enough elastic strength and it does not hold itself properly. It is very different from what I have used in UK. But it was indeed a good experience.

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I like to call my work of art – ‘Impressionist Sculpture’. I try to capture these beautiful little moments which could be ugly, sad or funny sometimes

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Domenica De Ferranti’s Achievements • Winner of ‘The Young Artist Award’ from the Society of Women Artists 2009 • Winner of ‘The Tiranti Prize’ from the Society of Portrait Sculptors 2009 • Winner of ‘The Jackson Sculpture Prize’ from the Chelsea Art Society, 2010

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Art & Design

Art To Remember Canvas

Between 2 Lines, a scintillating art show held in the city recently, showcased the works of the famed MF Husain and his son Owais Husain

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he legendary MF Husain was in Oman recently along with his son Owais Husain to showcase their latest art collection at Grand Hyatt, Muscat. It was followed by a workshop and a forum discussion called ‘On Calligraphy and more: The line written, once drawn’ held at the Bank Muscat head office in Seeb. Artists from various institutions in Oman, including the Omani Society for Fine Arts, were present for the workshop. ‘Between 2 Lines’ was an exclusive exhibition of MF Husain’s paintings which also included works of calligraphy and Owais Husain’s 12 paintings. The art show was held under the auspices of Anil Wadhwa, the Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, organised by Blue Mosaic and Trinity Investment Partners and presented by NPA Events. The event ‘Between 2 Lines’ was a great opportunity for local talent in Oman to meet one of the greatest artists of his generation, Maqbool Fida Husain, who was accompanied here by his son Owais Husain. Husain has a historic record of world class paintings who expressed his happiness of being part of such an event.

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Between 2 Lines’ was an exclusive exhibition of MF Husain’s paintings which also included works of calligraphy and Owais Husain’s 12 paintings

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The workshop comprised of illustrious artists such as M F Husain, Dr Ahmed Moustafa — Londonbased Egyptian calligraphy artist and scholar, Rashad Mohammad Bhukhash — Director of Architectural Heritage, Dubai Municipality, Benedict Carter, specialist, Islamic art, Sotheby’s Art Auction House, and Maryam al Zadjali – Director of the Omani Centre of Fine Arts. The discussion was moderated by Sarah White of the Bait al Zubair Foundation. The panel discussion was followed by an interactive and personalised workshop led by M F Husain and Dr Ahmed Moustafa. The event catered to the needs of Omani artists and all those who were interested in calligraphy. The event was sponsored by BankMuscat.

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Spicin g up your taste buds ...

1st. Floor, Jawharat Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shati Complex 2469 2486 9661 2020 Open 8am to 10pm daily

Gourmet & Hospitality

w Ambrosia April / May 2011

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Gourmet & Hospitality

Ambrosia

Of love and refined tastes Oysters have graced the dinner tables of royalty and have also been a staple part of the diet of the poor. When oysters faced a shortage of supply, the crustaceans soon attained the status of being a precious delicacy

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t would be hard to imagine that oysters were peasant food at one time. Or that oysters were street food in USA in the 19th century. Today oysters are a delicacy that comes at a dear price. The crustaceans even faced extinction till a French scientist discovered that you could artificially harvest them. Oysters have a rich history that few foods can match. Roman emperors sent thousands of slaves to the English shores to collect oysters to appease their passion. When the demand for oysters went up and could not be met, Roman emperors are said to have paid their worth in gold. For a while, though, it was also part of the diet of the poorer classes of Romans. During Victorian times pickled oysters were popular fare among the poor in London. Casanova is believed to have consumed 50 oysters every morning for breakfast, which led to the shellfish being attributed with aphrodisiacal properties. Certain reports say that Casanova started his evening meal with oysters before he met up with his lovers.

Love in the half shell

Throughout the centuries oysters have been favored by gourmands and romantics. The oyster has had a timeless mystique when it comes to passion. According to mythology, Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, emerged from the sea on an oyster shell and gave birth

to Eros. This also gave the world the term â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;aphrodisiacâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Many studies have been conducted to understand if oysters do have aphrodisiacal properties. In the early days, oysters may have gained their reputation at a time when their contribution of vitamins and minerals to nutritionally deficient diets could improve overall health, and so led to an increased sex drive. But recent research has shown that oysters contain dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps to govern brain activity and influence sexual desire in men and women. The passions produced from raw oysters, some have suggested, is linked to high levels of zinc and complex sugars and proteins. The oysterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own love life is an interesting one. A single oyster can incubate up to one million larvae and may do so more than once a year. Some oysters repeatedly change their gender from male to female and back again, which led to claims that the oyster lets one experience both the masculine and feminine sides of love. Taste of ocean

Oysters can either repulse you or some times, it just is not enough. Going by the cult food status it has received oysters score more on the popularity scale. The taste of oysters is reminiscent of the ocean. Yet, it

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Shucking an oyster Opening an oyster requires care. Use an oyster knife, which has a strong, thick blade designed specifically for opening the shells. • Scrub the whole oyster clean with a brush under cold running water. • For protection, place a folded kitchen towel in the palm of your hand. Else put on heavy duty gloves. Holding an oyster with the cupped side facing down, use the knife to pry into the oyster’s hinge. • Then twist the knife to pop off the top shell. • Gently slide knife along the inside of the top shell to loosen the flesh from the shell. Remove the top shell. • Run the knife under the flesh of the oyster meat to detach it from the bottom shell.

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Casanova is believed to have consumed 50 oysters every morning for breakfast, which led to the shellfish being attributed with aphrodisiacal properties

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Purists say that raw oysters are best with a squeeze of lemon. A dribble of Tabasco sauce or wine vinegar can be added if desiredal

can be salty or sweet with subtle notes of cucumber, melon, herbs, butter, flint or copper all depending on the water in which they grew. But few foods can conjure up a physical feature of the Earth as strongly as a bracing, salty, tangy oyster: the essence of the sea in edible form. Apart from being branded as a food for lovers, oysters are an extremely healthy option and a great ingredient for low-cholesterol diets. This variety of shellfish is low in calories – one dozen raw oysters contain around 110 calories. Oysters also contains vitamins and minerals like A, B1, B2 ,C and D, calcium, iodine, iron, potassium, copper, sodium, zinc, phosphorous, manganese and sulphur and the all-important omega-3 fatty acids. Purists say that raw oysters are best with a squeeze of lemon. A dribble of Tabasco sauce or wine vinegar can be added if desired. Cooked oysters are equally good, though the tangy ocean flavour could get tempered. They are also excellent poached in their own juice, fried in batter, baked or turned into a soup. It was believed that oysters were safer to be consumed in months that have an ‘r’ in the name. Recent studies have shown that oysters are safe to eat all year round; they just aren’t as good in the summer months, when the waters warm up. This is when the oysters spawn, and their normally firm flesh turns milky and soft. Winter is a better time to eat oysters because that’s when the water is coldest and the oyster’s flavour is best.

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Oyster delicacies Crab & Oyster Soup

12 oysters, removed from shell ½ cup crab meat, finely chopped 3 tablespoons butter 2 cups milk 1 cup water Salt & pepper to taste 1. Boil the milk with the butter. 2. Add the water, oysters, crab meat and seasonings. 3. Cook slowly for just five minutes. 4. Serve immediately.

Oyster Passion

6 oysters Freshly chopped chives, handful 6 teaspoons of whipped cream Tobasco 1. Shuck oysters five minutes before needed. 2. Detach the flesh from the shell and turn over, pour out the first water. 3. Leave the meat in shell and allow for second water to come up before serving. 4. Add a teaspoon of half whipped double cream and a drop of tobasco on each oyster. (Adjust tobasco to your individual tastes.) 5. Sprinkle some freshly chopped chives and serve.

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Travel & Lifestyle

Cruise w View w Retreat w VIP w Showcase w Focus w Interview April / May 2011

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CRUISE

April / May 2011

Afloat in Luxury Vacationing on a cruise liner has become more popular than before in the recent past. Crème de la Crème visited two majestic liners that called on Muscat port recently – Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas and Cunard’s new Queen Elizabeth and came back impressed

ancy a vacation aboard a luxury liner as you cruise along the Mediterranean coast or the Bahamas? Maybe Europe? We recently visited two fantastic cruise liners that visited Oman and were blown away by both. Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas is a modern luxury liner that features some outstanding qualities catering to just about almost every requirement of passengers. Queen Elizabeth, the newest cruise liner to join the Cunard fleet visited Muscat port, her maiden visit to the country. Keeping in line with Cunard’s legacy, the liner was a sight to behold. Brilliance of the Seas

A fantastic member of Royal Caribbean’s fleet, Brilliance of the Seas is a dream come one-stop vacation land. The magnificent liner boasts of glass elevators facing the sea, a 9-story glass-enclosed Centrum, state-of-the-

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art technology and impeccable service all through the journey. The cruise liner accommodates 2501 passengers and sails Europe, the Western Caribbean, Panama Canal and Transatlantic crossings. Brilliance of the Seas ensures that the guest is the king and has included just about everything that would ensure a great journey for the passengers. Right from Broadway-style shows to a live band every night to dancing lessons and even ice skating, the luxury liner has got it all. For sports enthusiast, there are a number of sports and fitness options to choose from. The cruise liner even has a rock climbing wall and basketball/volleyball courts. And for those who require the much TLC, Brilliance of the Seas has a beautiful spa that offes a variety of treatments and therapies to cater to the travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body, mind and soul. 116

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Dining is one of the highlights of the cruise with a variety of options onboard. There are delicious offerings in the main dining room as well as the relaxed Windjammer CafĂŠ. The cruise liner is also home to some of the top brands in the world; shopaholics are surely going to love the experience. There are also art galleries as well as art auctions on board the cruise. Brilliance of the Seas also has special programmes and activities for children. This includes Adventure Ocean Youth Programs that have been designed to blend educational activities with fun. The cruise also has on-shore excursions that provides passengers the opportunity to see, explore and learn about the destinations where Brilliance of the Sea docks.

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth is Cunard’s newest and the youngest member that joined the fleet family in October 2010. With over 170 year old history in shipping industry, this is the third luxury ocean liner from Cunard Line. She was affectionately named in a spectacular ceremony by Her Majesty - The Queen, recalling the rich heritage of the first Cunarder to bear the name. Named after the first Queen Elizabeth, one of Cunard’s greatest ships, the new Queen Elizabeth reflects her predecessor in interior grandeur, décor and style, but with a modern twist. Queen Elizabeth made her maiden call to Muscat on March 30, 2011 while on her Maiden World Cruise which left Southampton early January and returns there in April 2011. Her distinctive black and red livery reflects at an experience that differentiates a Cunard liner from a modern-day cruise ship. This is most evident in the ship’s adherence to liner traditions, with elegant double and triple height public rooms on a grand scale, luxuriously endowed with rich wood panelling, intricate mosaics, gleaming chandeliers, and cool marbles.

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For her first world voyage, Queen Elizabeth offered a complete 103day circumnavigation of the globe from her home port of Southampton, crossing the Atlantic en route to New York, Fort Lauderdale after the ship passed through the Panama Canal

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Art Deco features pay homage to the original Queen Elizabeth, and allows the new ship to reflect a more civilized era of travel. The ship boasts of spacious and luxurious accommodations which culminate in grandeur and style. Queen Elizabeth’s ‘Deck 11’ is the epitome of luxury because this is where dining excellence is experienced by all guests with an ambience that resonate royalty. Queen Elizabeth also acknowledges the links that Cunard has enjoyed with royalty and the maritime world over the years with photography, memorabilia and exhibits. Apart from the usual comforts and facilities on a cruise liner, some of the other attractions at Queen Elizabeth are a small museum, old picture collections, casino and some unique paintings of Queen Elizabeth II. For her first world voyage, Queen Elizabeth offered a complete 103-day circumnavigation of the globe from her 118

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home port of Southampton, crossing the Atlantic en route to New York, Fort Lauderdale after the ship passed through the Panama Canal. From the West Coast, Queen Elizabeth continued her westward journey to the ever-popular city of Sydney, where she docked overnight, and then the South Pacific and New Zealand. From there, it was on its way to the exotic ports of Asia, including Singapore, Bali, Vietnam and Thailand as well as another overnight stay in Hong Kong. After transiting through India, Dubai and then Oman, the ship then sailed through the Suez Canal to Egypt, Greece, Italy and Portugal en-route back to Southampton. The ship’s gross tonnage is a whopping 90,900 GRT with a guest capacity of 2068 out of which 996 comprise of crew members. It measures 964.5 feet in length and 106 feet in width and speeds up to a record 23.7 knots.

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view

The pearl of Mirbat

A year later, Salalah Marriot Resort remains one of the finest properties in the Dhofar region. Crème de la Crème shows why this resort is a great getaway

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f there was one place in Oman we could go to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, from the din of daily requirements, even if only for a weekend, Salalah Marriott Resort would win our votes hand down. Tucked away at one of the quietest spots in Mirbat, the Salalah Marriott Resort is a great getaway choice as the resort truly embodies tranquility. The resort recently celebrated its first anniversary and has grown quite a bit since its inception. Having stayed there earlier, shortly after the inauguration, we could see that the resort had surely come fighting fit through its teething problems. The resort boasts of new appointments in the positions of General Manager and Head Chef. Michel Sursock, the resort’s General Manager, is keen to tap into the area and offer visitors a memorable

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Salalah Marriott Resort is part of the Mirbat Beach Development Project, which is expected to change the face of the area. The RO1bn tourism project is set to boost Oman’s developing tourism market

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experience. He said, “Salalah is a unique destination and a property like ours makes it a niche market. We hope to offer visitors a complete package with diving, eco-tourism and relaxation as the key factors.” The resort, that overlooks the Arabian Ocean, has 237 rooms, including 51 chalets, a unique concept in the region. The resort’s appealing features include a 2,000sqm outdoor pool, the first spa from the Balinese group - Chavana, dive centre run by Euro Divers, tennis courts, children’s pool and playground and theme restaurants. Salalah Marriott Resort is part of the Mirbat Beach Development Project, which is expected to change the face of the area. The RO1bn tourism project is set to boost Oman’s developing tourism market. Mirbat Beach Development Project is one of the most ambitious projects

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Michel Sursock, General Manager, Salalah Marriott Resort

being developed by the Dhofar Tourism Company SAOG. This integrated development project covers 2 million sq. m. land with residential, commercial, tourism and entertainment facilities that are proposed to be completed in five different phases. The project will feature two luxury 5-star hotels, of which the first is Salalah Beach Resort; here are also 538 Furnished Apartments and over 1600 residential units comprising of 620 Townhouses; 384 Village Houses; 290 Villas; 88 Boulevard Apartments and 57 exclusive Golf Course Villas. The other properties that would be developed include 161 Marina Apartments around a marina with 75 berthing spots and over 10,000 sq. m. of retail space and 10,000 sq. m. of office space. The project also has a 9-hole Golf Course and

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Clubhouse; Camel and Horse Racing Tracks and Stables; a Spa and Fitness Centre; a Dive Centre; Water Park; a Private Hospital/Clinic with Helipad; a Nursery and Child Care Facility; as well as an Entertainment Centre for adults and children. Among the various highlights of Salalah Beach Resort is its unique location. Offering beach, mountain as well as the pool views, the hotel appeals to visitors who seek natural surroundings for a getaway or holiday. Equally attractive is the resort to divers and water enthusiasts. Euro Divers take guests to secluded and pristine spots in the sea where a dip promises magnificent views of the rich life underwater. As the resort enters its second year, Salalah Beach Resort looked poised to attract more success and visitors in the months to come.

Mirbat Delights What you shouldn’t miss when visiting Mirbat Tomb of Bin Ali - A little outside Mirbat is the tomb of Mohammed bin Ali Al-Alawi, a descendant of the son-inlaw of the Prophet Mohammed. His mausoleum stands in the middle of a large cemetery. Khor Rouri – A UNESCO world heritage site that used to be the centre of frankincense production Al Baleed Land of Frankincense Museum – A cultural treat, the museum is a must- Visit to learn more about the region and its prized possession Anti-gravity point – One of the major attractions of Salalah and a few kilometers off Mirbat

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Salalah Marriott Resort is part of the Mirbat Beach Development Project, which is expected to change the face of the area

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Tucked away in Arosa is the historic Tschuggen Grand Hotel. One of the most exclusive and splendid getaways in Switzerland, Tschuggen Grand Hotel caters to the needs of discerning guests. Crème de la Crème gets to know more from the hotel’s general manager, Leo Maissan

he Tschuggen Grand Hotel’s history dates back to 1883, when Otto Herwig, a German from Hanau on the river Main, came to Arosa because of a lung condition. Convinced of the health-giving effect of Arosa’s air, he soon founded the Berghilf Sanatorium with his sister Marie, who took over the running of the institution in 1892 and managed it until her death in 1922. Thus goes the story of Tschuggen Grand Hotel. During the 1929/1930 winter season, the Berghilf Sanatorium transformed into the Tschuggen Grand Hotel for the benefit of winter sports enthusiasts an thus set off the tourist development of Arosa. From refuge for bronchial sufferers and escape from city heat, Arosa became the winter sports paradise for skiers for which it is famous today. Leo Maissan, the General Manager of the hotel tell us

more about the property and what makes Arosa so special. Please provide a brief history on the Tschuggen Grand Hotel.

The Tschuggen Grand Hotel’s history began in 1883, when Otto Herwig, a German, came to Arosa because of a lung condition. Convinced of the health-giving effect of Arosa’s air, he soon founded the Berghilf Sanatorium with his sister Marie, who took over the running of the institution in 1892 and managed it until her death in 1922. Most of the lung patients used to stay here for the summer months. For the 1929/1930 winter season, the Berghilf Sanatorium transformed itself into the Tschuggen Sporthotel for the benefit of winter sports enthusiasts. Its metamorphosis was the starting signal for the whole tourist development of

Arosa. From refuge for bronchial sufferers and escape from city heat, Arosa became the winter sports paradise for skiers for which it is famous today. In the ensuing years, the Tschuggen Grand Hotel experienced ups and downs until a disastrous fire destroyed the whole property in 1966. Reconstruction took four years, and a successful re-opening was celebrated for the 1970 winter season. In 1980 Armin Wyssmann – for many years the hotel’s owner and director – sold the Tschuggen Grand Hotel to the family Dr. Kipp-Bechtolsheimer, who still owns it. Sizeable investment has marked a further milestone in the history of the hotel. Since April 2004, this investment has borne fruit in the opening of the “Tschuggen Bergoase” spa and in upgraded infrastructure.

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All works have been conducted under the expert guidance of internationally renowned Swiss architects Mario Botta and Carlo Rampazzi. Another milestone is the opening of the Tschuggen Express railway, the hotel’s own funicular, which began its first full winter season in November 2009. Please tell us more about the hotel and its facilities.

The Tschuggen Grand Hotel’s 130 totally renovated rooms and suites bear the hallmark of the renowned Swiss interior designer Carlo Rampazzi. They convey a combination of extravagance and harmonious idyll. Patchwork bed heads in youthful and humorous or discreet designs have developed into a trademark of the hotel. The pillows and bedspreads are perfectly coordinated with the rest of the design. Fine Venetian stucco on walls and ceilings, carefully selected characteristic furniture, imaginative accessories and large, luxurious bathrooms create a modern experience of well-being with an incomparable view of the Arosa mountain scenery. Gastronomic diversity is provided by the five in-house restaurants which have committed themselves to down-to-earth cuisine – whether for a gala dinner or a raclette evening. Great importance is attached

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Passionate and high quality service is the motto of the Tschuggen Grand Hotel team. Our ambition is to fulfill and satisfy the desires of our guests with joy and commitment.

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to fresh produce, herbs and mouth-watering flavours, prepared in unusual and individual styles and with a new unpretentiousness. The “La Vetta” gourmet restaurant was included in the GaultMillau 2011 guide with 15 points. With the Tschuggen Bergoase designed by the Swiss star architect Mario Botta which opened December 2006, the Tschuggen Grand Hotel has not only created an unmistakeable visual landmark for both the hotel and the destination, but also redefined the much-used term “Wellness”. The nine opulent, yet filigree glass sails of the Tschuggen Bergoase, a structure laid out in the form of a terrace and inset into the rock, direct daylight into the centre of the well-being oasis. At night they create an impressive spectacle of lights amongst the trees. With four levels and

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an area of 5000 square metres, the guest can experience a new dimension of warmth, rock, light and water. natural materials are conducive to peaceful relaxation. A harmonious, low-key design runs throughout from the sauna landscapes to the various pools and the exclusive spa suites. A large fitness area with the very latest machines completes the facilities of the Tschuggen Bergoase. What makes Tshuggen Grand unique and different from the other hotels around?

The Tschuggen Bergoase Spa with its 5000 m2 of wellbeing is definitely one of the most outstanding Spas in the Alps. Furthermore with the Tschuggen Express we have a direct access to the ski area of Arosa. But next to the hardware of the hotel we live a several times awarded personal, heart-felt spirit of hospitality and always offer attentive service and try to realize innovative ideas.

How did Tshuggen Express come about?

The family that owns the Tschuggen Hotel Group are keen to always offer special services to their guests. This led to the idea of offering direct access to the ski area to offer more comfort to our guests. Arosa’s ski areas can now be reached in less than two and a half minutes via the Tschuggen Express. At the touch of a button, the two cabins of the Tschuggen Express take 12 hotel guests directly to the skiing area each trip. While guests enjoy the view over the snow-clad mountain peaks from the comfort of their leather seats, the train gains 150 metres in altitude over a stretch of 528 metres of track. The maximum incline is 52 per cent. The Tschuggen Express travels at a speed of 4 metres per second, allowing the journey to be completed in less than two and a half minutes. Tschuggen Bergoase received much acclaim. Please tell us more about the Spa design.

The Tschuggen Bergoase is the creation of Switzerland’s foremost architects, Mario Botta, whose other accomplishments include the refurbishment of La Scala in Milan and the Museum of Modern Arts in San Francisco. The design within the Tschuggen Bergoase is minimal. Light and space are fundamental, with granite stone from the mountains, light maple wood and glass, being the only

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three building materials used. With an open plan design, guests on the fourth floor can see all the way down to the ground floor. Water is also in abundance across the spa, with springs throughout the site streaming pure Arosa spring water. Using natural elements and maximising the stunning mountain setting, the spa is a true oasis of health, beauty and wellbeing. Facilities include two swimming pools, an outdoor pool with spectacular views, sun terraces, saunas, two spa suites, 12 treatment rooms, a meditation room, fitness centre, relaxation area with fireplace, outdoor stretch area, hair salon and a medi spa department offering checkups, dermatological and nutritional advice. Spa partners include Sensai, Dermalogica, Comfort Zone, Clarins, OPI and La Biosthetique. Of the more unusual offerings, the Arosa Mountain Grotto on the top floor is made of Arosa mountain stone. Guests pass through a rain curtain into a small area where they can

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The Tschuggen Grand Hotel’s 130 totally renovated rooms and suites bear the hzallmark of the renowned Swiss interior designer Carlo Rampazzi. They convey a combination of extravagance and harmonious idyll

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enjoy a programme of seasons – summer rain, a winter storm, fog, mist or pure sunshine, designed to soothe and invigorate the mind and soul. Named after the famous German pastor who discovered the properties of water on the human body, particularly the benefits of moving from hot to cold, the Kneipp Path on the fourth floor is a path resembling a natural brook. Guests can walk (‘kneipp’) over natural stones through the knee-deep stream, passing through ice cold and hot spots, stimulating their blood circulation and nervous system. Light is of the essence. Nine ‘Light Trees’ have been constructed on the roof of the Mountain Spa which reflect natural bright light down onto each of the four floors. Light is controlled internally, and intertwined with colour and contrasts to create different ambiences throughout the day. What makes Arosa and the Tshuggen Grand a great getaway for families?

Arosa is a traditional family resort. The unique Arosa JUNIOR Club offers our younger guests exciting activities every day, plenty of fun, excitement and action in both winter and summer. Our footpaths are family-friendly, and we offer children’s menus in the mountain huts, play areas, fun parks, treasure hunts and a goody bag of treats in the JUNIOR Club of the hotel. We present every

young guest with a welcome box packed with surprises, as well as providing playrooms and free participation in the supervised children’s programmes. Could you share with us some of the renowned names who have stayed in your hotel?

Normally we do not talk about our famous guests. But in this case we can make an exception and mention that His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud with his wife her Highness Princess Ameerah Al Taweel und his daughter Princess Reem Bint Alwaleed recently spent a 10-day ski holiday at the Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa with an entourage of around 50 people. How do you ensure that the guests of your hotel have a memorable stay?

Passionate and high quality service is the motto of the Tschuggen Grand Hotel team. Our ambition is to fulfill and satisfy the desires of our guests with joy and commitment. Do you get visitors from the Middle East?

Increasing numbers of guests from the Middle East are discovering the Tschuggen Grand Hotel as a special hideaway. What is interesting is that high numbers of guests from this

region are attracted to the hotel group in the summer. When would be the best time to visit Arosa?

It depends on what you are looking for. Naturally, winter sports are a big attraction to the resort, but summer and autumn have their own very special feel as well. There is plenty to do whole year round and you always find plenty of reasons to visit the Tschuggen Grand Hotel, whether it be the unique wellness experience, the delicious food, the attentive service, the multifarious sport facilities or just the feeling to feel at home away from home. Besides the facilities at the hotel, what more can the visitors expect?

In summer you can explore the 200 kilometres of footpaths and hiking trails around Arosa. Golfers will, no doubt, find their favourite spot at the 18-hole golf course at Maran, with its fantastic views over the Arosa Mountains. Cyclists will love the numerous bike tours in the area around Arosa, as well as free bicycle transport on the Hörnli cable car. And Arosa is famous for guaranteeing snow and sunshine in winter, which always makes skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing or just walking through the snow-covered winter landscape to a very special experience of nature.

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Travel & Lifestyle

VIP

Live life king size A haven of relaxation, exclusivity and sheer luxury, Rixos Villas are perfect to make holidays in Turkey out of this world. Crème de la Crème presents world renowned choice for royalties, country leaders, celebrities and business personalities

he unique and exclusive Rixos Villas at Rixos Premium Bodrum, Rixos Premium Belek and Rixos Sungate offer the the ultimate royal service, featuring sheer luxury and a majestic layout. Within the grounds of their villa, guests can enjoy the privacy of a pavilion with spectacular views over the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, a heated pool, a tennis court, a pier for their yacht, and their own fully equipped Turkish bath. A 24 hour butler service is a provided in this lavish set up and in the most discreet manner he will ensure that a guest’s every wish and requirement is met, from immaculate unpacking of the wardrobe to obtaining tickets for the hottest show in town. The experience is made more exclusive for guests with the presence of a private chef, who prepares sumptuous cuisine, from authentic Turkish dishes to the most rare delicacies of the Orient and other parts of the world.

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Rixos Hotels, established in 2000, is one of the world’s fastest growing, luxury hotel chains. Dedicated to offering traditional Turkish hospitality and a unique spa experience in the finest surroundings and luxury ambience, the Antalya based group currently owns and operates 7 premium resorts & villas and 5 city hotels in countries as diverse as Turkey, Croatia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and Libya. The Rixos portfolio of exceptional properties is sited in prime and historic locations. With more than 6,000 staff serving 12 properties, the Rixos Hotels have developed an innovative guest experience that blends the best of the new and old. Designed to offer a unique luxury long stay experience, the Rixos villas are beautifully furnished. Tailor-made service with private butler and concierge is the ultimate choice of the world’s most distinguished travelers. At the heart of every Rixos hotel is a revitalizing Wellness and Spa Center with anauthentic Turkish Hammam,

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offering a unique spa treatment, menu and atmosphere. Known for their hospitality, attentive personalized Within the grounds of service and fine cuisine, Rixos Hotels received global recognition and top ratings from distinguished specialist their villa, guests can enjoy professional bodies such as the American Five Star the privacy of a pavilion with Diamond Award, Conde Nast, and Great Hotels of the World. The group is pleased to be the leisure hotel of choice spectacular views over the for discerning specialist travel and tour operators. Aegean and Mediterranean Rixos Hotels is continuing its rapid growth with particular focus on Eastern and Middle Europe, the coasts, a heated pool, a tennis A visit the Correr revealed Mediterranean Coasts, Northto Africa andMuseo the Arabian Gulf court, a pier for their yacht, region. The group’s vision and mission become a brand was the tale that Venice’s history - sois toabsorbing and their own fully equipped leader in the premium global hospitality industry. we returned to the Palazzo on the morrow to take So, if you think you want to experience at least once Turkish bath whatthe it trulySecret means to live like a royal, there’tour s your chance. Itineraries tracing the footsteps of All you have to do is select the location that inspires you the yesteryear aristocrats through secret passageways most and opt to take your loved ones to a Royal Holiday at and a Rixos Villa!hidden chambers characteristic of a city

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where masks were an everyday tradition

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Travel & Lifestyle

Showcase

Lounge in style

Doha International Airport was the first airport to open a First and Business Class Terminal back in 2006 and the $90 million new terminal is one of the most ambitious projects today

ince the airline’s launch as an international carrier, Qatar Airways has been an industry innovator, from day one achieving ‘world firsts’ which are remarkable for such a young and developing airline. With the world’s first dedicated passenger terminal for First and Business Class passengers, built at a cost of almost US$100 million at Doha International Airport, Qatar Airways’ Premium Terminal has become an industry leader. Built in just nine months, the 10,000sqm Premium

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Terminal with its expansive wide ranging serene water features offers facilities ranging from exclusive conciergestyle seated check-in, duty-free shopping, conference rooms, nursery and play area to spa treatment rooms, saunas, jacuzzis and fine dining restaurants. The innovative Premium Terminal facilities are designed to provide Qatar Airways’ most loyal customers with the best levels of comfort and hospitality prior to catching their flight. Open round-the-clock, 24-hours-a-day, seven days a

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Qatar Airways prides itself on providing passengers with the best possible service and hospitality. The new terminal goes one step further by exceeding passenger’s expectations. We truly are being recognised as being an industry leader for being innovative

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week, the Premium Terminal is being seen as a benchmark destinations worldwide. More than 150 specially-trained staff from the in the region and, indeed, rest of the world, for Qatar A visit to the Museo Correr revealed hospitality industry around the world have been recruited Airways passengers beginning their international journeys work inthe the new facility.that in style. Venice’s First and Business Class passengers flying Qatar towas history - so absorbing tale Since Qatar Airways manages and operates Doha Airways from Doha or transiting through the Qatari we returned to the Palazzo on the morrow to also be responsible for the new capital are able to take advantage of the new facilities. International Airport. It willtake premium class terminal, for exclusive From thethe moment they step into the Premium Terminal, Secret Itineraries tour tracing the footsteps of use by Qatar Airways where they will be met by a concierge, passengers are passengers departing for their international flights. Access yesteryear aristocrats through secret passageways able to enjoy a hassle-free and memorable experience. to the new terminal will be via a new road with ample hidden chambers characteristic of a city They canand relax unwind and shop before catching their parking space. flight to any one of the award-winning airline’s numerous

where masks were an everyday tradition

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Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said: “The new terminal for premium passengers will be a big boost for Qatar Airways. It is the first of its kind, not only in the Middle East, but anywhere in the world.” “Qatar Airways prides itself on providing passengers with the best possible service and hospitality. The new terminal goes one step further by exceeding passenger’s expectations. We truly are being recognised as being an industry leader for being innovative.” “Within the new environment, Qatar Airways will offer all our passengers travelling in First and Business Class the opportunity to relax in their very own exclusive area and enjoy the comforts of the terminal. The terminal is designed to create an inviting ambience – one of allowing passengers to relax, unwind and enjoy the excellent facilities such as a spa, jacuzzi, sauna and wonderful duty-free shopping on offer. “There are dedicated First and Business Class lounges on the first floor featuring separate dining areas with hot and cold food available for passengers throughout the day.” He added: “For business travellers, we will have a conference room and meeting rooms together with

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First and Business Class passengers flying Qatar Airways from Doha or transiting through the Qatari capital are able to take advantage of the new facilities. From the moment they step into the Premium Terminal, where they will be met by a concierge, passengers are able to enjoy a hassle-free and memorable experience

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secretarial services, as well as free access to Internet stations within the terminal. With the introduction of dedicated e-gates, these will ensure passengers registered with e-cards are processed through immigration smoothly and efficiently.” Registered e-card passengers have their biometric personal data – name, passport details and fingerprints – embedded in the smart cards which are swiped through the e-gates prior to entering the departing lounge. “As some of our passengers will also be travelling with their families, we haven’t forgotten the needs of children who have a special play area, as well as a nursery.” The new terminal development is part of a raft of improvements currently taking place at Doha International Airport, where the arrival and departure halls are being expanded to cope with the increasing number of passengers flying in and out of the airport. An additional 21,000sqm of space is being added to the existing airport terminal. The number of boarding gates will be increased from 10 to 16; there will be two additional immigration counters; new e-gates in arrival and departure to speed up processing of passengers; and a sharp increase in the number of aircraft parking bays to ease the existing constraints and cope with the huge expansion of Qatar Airways’ fleet. Qatar Airways is one of only six airlines in the world with a Five Star ranking for service and excellence awarded by Skytrax, the independent aviation industry monitoring agency. Skytrax also named Qatar Airways’ cabin crew as Best in the Middle East for the fifth year running in 2007 following a survey of more than 15 million passengers worldwide. For more information, log onto www.qatarairways.com Qatar Airways’ Premium Terminal, the world’s only dedicated facility for First and Business Class passengers, recently won the ‘Best Premium Service Airport’ award in the annual Skytrax airport awards.

Highlights of the new terminal are

Self-service check-in kiosks for passengers with hand baggage Dedicated e-gates to speed up immigration formalities Separate First and Business Class check-in desks Dedicated First and Business Class lounges, each with their own dining areas Duty-free shopping area of 1,000sqm selling many leading international brands Spa, jacuzzi and sauna for passengers to relax and unwind before their flight Massage treatments Shower and wash rooms Children’s play area and nursery Conference room and meeting rooms Business centre with secretarial services Free Internet access stations Prayer rooms for men and women Medical centre Five boarding gates An integral part of the design will be an atrium and water feature in the centre of the building

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With the world’s first dedicated passenger terminal for First and Business Class passengers, built at a cost of almost US$100 million at Doha International Airport, Qatar Airways’ Premium Terminal has become an industry leader

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Travel & Lifestyle

FOCUS

Making a Difference Golf World is a dream come true for golf connoisseurs â&#x20AC;Ś this onestop golf shop houses everything under one roof and is set to immensely complement the Oman golfing scene

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man is the next upcoming golfing destination as the sport has witnessed a huge momentum in the country in recent times,â&#x20AC;? says Leon Sassen, General Manager, Golf World. Golf as a sport has taken a whole new meaning amongst players in Oman and the result of that are the numerous projects that are being undertaken to build golf courses and thus increasing participation in golf. One of the other things that have happened and is a first of its kind in Oman is the setting up Golf World by the dynamic team - Zaher Harmally, Leon Sassen and Ahmed al Farsi. Sassen and Harmally have been doing some pioneering work for the past few months and have finally triumphed by setting up a one stop golf shop which houses exclusive golf paraphernalia. After having researched the market, the trio found the need of such a shop as Oman is at a stage where Golf as a sport is at its peak. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the current growth in the golfing scene, we saw

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With just over a month from when Golf World opened its door to the public, the shop has received a tremendous response from the golfing community

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that there was a niche market for golf in Oman. Also at the moment there are several golf courses coming up in Oman which will take this sport to another dimension altogether in a few years. We decided that this was the best time to have Golf World set up so that we can cater to everybody’s need – both amateur and professional players. On the other hand we are the first to open an exclusive retail shop for golf products which Oman has never seen before,” says Sassen. Since Sassen was associated with Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club before setting up Golf World, he is hands-on with ideas, strategies, marketing etc for Golf World. What is different about Golf World and Sassen replies, “To cater to golf players as well as golf enthusiasts, I will be more than happy to offer all the expert advice that they require at any point of time which very few or none of the sport shops in Oman offer. I will function as a golfing advisor to give tips and suggestions to whoever walks into our shop. This is what is going to set us apart. Also our pricing is going to be very competitive which I believe the golfers will be very happy with.” Harmally says, “We want to encourage this sport amongst all the people in Oman – young and old. We house products not only for male and female golfers but also for junior golfers. We want to be able to promote this sport amongst the youngsters because we strongly believe that they are the ones to carry forward this sport and make our nation proud. Thus, we would like to encourage them as much as we can by providing equipments, tips and all the help they need to grow in this kind of sport.” With just over a month from when Golf World opened

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Golf World also deals largely with corporate gear. Golf World can logo items such as shirts, hats, balls and towels to company satisfaction

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its door to the public, the shop has received a tremendous response from the golfing community. “Our idea is mainly to promote golf within Oman and help golfers with whatever they need with equipments, apparels, accessories etc. We don’t want people to think that this sport is only meant for rich or well to do people. We want everyone to be able to access our products and be able to enjoy this sport, says Harmally. “We are very fortunate to have Leon Sassen and Ahmed al Farsi with us as they will work as mentors to whoever walks into our shop,” quips Harmally. Golf World also deals largely with corporate gear. Golf World can logo items such as shirts, hats, balls and towels to company satisfaction. “We have done a number of corporate items for tournaments, we specialise in quality options so that clients display their brands on items that will be continually be used even after the event, greater exposure” says Sassen.

The Golf World Team

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Golf World not only deals with supplying equipment but they also organise and run corporate golfing events. Sassen has years of experience with golfing events throughout the world. “Golfing events are not an easy thing to run if you don’t have the experience. For example before the event/tournament you have to know the course, format and skill level of golfers involved. We are currently involved with the preparation for the inaugural Golf World Classic which will be a yearly event,” says Sassen. Golf World can cater to any corporate event that requires custom-made equipment; a truly one stop shop for all your golfing needs. The shop also boasts of having some of the most prestigious associations with companies all over the world and if products are not available at the time of purchase, they guarantee to get it shipped to customers within few days. Golf World also prides on continually updating their stock and supplying all the latest equipment in their showroom. About going online, Sassen says “The internet is an amazing system, we understand that products can be brought from there. That’s why we have agreements with Edwin Watts for fast effective service. I say let Golf World worry about the order and let the golfer worry about their game”. A confident Sassen says, “We are happy to be able to support the golfing community in Oman and we look forward to future endeavours”

The brands available at Golf World Taylor Made Callaway Cleveland Srixon Titliest Ping Top Flite

Odyssey Maxfli Mizuno Adidas Pin HIgh Cutter & Buck Ashworth

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Travel & Lifestyle

Interview

Trails of discovery Arabian Trails, a new destination management company, is endeavouring to infuse the travel industry in Oman with new and innovative ideas

ravel and holiday packages are a dime a dozen these days. Many of these packages are priced economically and thus offer services that are often of average quality. Bringing a new lease of life to the travel industry in the country is Arabian Trails, a fully integrated Destination Management Company (DMC) by offering services at great prices yet with high standards. The company offers services to tour operators, MICE organisers and cruise ship companies globally. Set up by Manfred Schweizer along with his partner Yahya Al Abrawi, Arabian Trails intends to bring to the region destination management in its truest form.

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“Destination management and tour operations in the strict sense do not exist in the region. This means offering personalised services of high standard that are creative and of good value,” says Manfred Schweizer. The services offered by Arabian Trails include providing personalised programmes for groups as well as organising tour series or custom tours for travellers’ with similar interests and catering to the needs of tour operators. One of the main highlights of Arabian Trails is to provide ‘Authentic Arabian Experiences’ to clients. The company endeavours to assist travellers in understanding and experiencing the culture of Arabia. Religious and adventure

trips are the other specialties of Arabian Trails. The headquarters of Arabian Trails is in Muscat but plans to open in other countries in the region are in the pipeline. The Dubai operations of the company was launched a month ago. There are plans to open offices in Abu Dhabi, Jordan and Egypt in the near future. “There is immense potential in this region. What people need are quality and value-for-money services. We are able to provide that as we have well-trained and experienced staff,” says Schweizer, who has a strong background in the field of travel and tourism. Before moving to Muscat, he worked in Switzerland in the field of tour operations. “I met Yahya on a trip to Muscat two years back. Though I really liked the country when I visited, I was not sure if we could start a DMC. But after talks with Yahya and studying the market, I realised this was a great idea to start here,” explains Schweizer. In September 2010 Schweizer moved to Muscat and along with his business partner Al Abrawi started Arabian Trails in January this year. According to Schweizer, the initial

part of the journey may not be easy but they expect to see success in due course. The fact that few companies offer constructed and comprehensive services as Arabian Trails do sets them apart, explains Schweizer. Arabian Trails also provides services to cruise companies and their clients. The company offers turnaround and portof-call operation services. The other services provided include visa arrangements, airport assistance, guided city tours, half day, full day and overnight excursions, and mountain and desert safaris. MICE projects are also undertaken by Arabian Trails. Dedicated staff with experience in the MICE industry handle this department. Arabian Trails’s strength lies in its ability to tap into the vast range of contacts the company has to provide clients with services that their peers may not be able to. Over the next two years, Schweizer plans to open offices in other parts of GCC including Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar. More details about Arabian Trails can be found on www. arabian-trails.com.

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Style & Beauty

Fashionspeak w Showcase w Advertorial w Fashion w New Look w Advertorial April / May 2011

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Style & Beauty

Fashion

A Colourful Tribute The 40 Corsage show was aimed at paying a tribute to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said as well as the youth of this nation through a scintillating evening of fashion and art

Safiya Al Bahlani

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he fashion and art scene in Oman is indeed taking the city by storm and hence it was no surprise when a group of young college students got together to present their work of creativity to a niche audience comprising of art and fashion lovers at the Bait Zubair Museum recently. Inspired by the country’s leader, the four young graduates dedicated their work to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said as a tribute for his endless love for the country. The show, ‘40 Corsage’ was presented by Layali Al Asalah, a leading name in the fashion institution of Oman. They are pioneers in grooming Omani fashion designers to work towards realising their dream as fashion entrepreneurs. The event was aimed to translate the love and passion for a country into designs and works of art that also carry a message of His Majesty’s royal speeches from 1970s to 2010.

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The show, ‘40 Corsage’ was presented by Layali Al Asalah, a leading name in the fashion institution of Oman

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The evening was a mélange of an eclectic fashion show, display of colourful paintings and showcase of some fine piece of jewellery where guests also enjoyed a warm welcome with snacks and drinks catered by Ubhar. Sahwa Al Maashani and Rebyl Peddity showcased their clothes which evoked a sense of youth, fun and vigour. Maashani used His Majesty’s speeches as a tool to create her designs just to prove to the world that there is no limit to creativity when the inspiration is rooted from the love of one’s own country. On the other hand Peddity used her creativity to create a collection that highlights the expertise and knowledge she gained through her studies at Middle Eastern College of Information Technology. Safiya Al Bahlani, a gifted young artist was the star of the evening. Her portraits are beyond her age and her paintings are a self expression of Safia. She has a unique brush stroke that differentiates her work from the rest. For 40 Corsage Safiya created a special collection of paintings, where she combined elements of fabrics and jewellery collection. Lastly Naima Al Maimani who is better known for her impeccable paintings, chose to venture into a new sphere which showcased her creativity and her skills in precision. Naima’s jewellery is adorned with vibrant precious stones that range from turquoise, pearls, corals etc to name a few.

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adveRtorial

Sparkle with Havaianas S

ummer is here and if you are looking to add some sparkle to your feet then Havaianas are what you need. Renowned foot wear brand Havaianas have created dazzling flip flops - the Slim Crystal, MetalissĂŠ Swarovski collection. The innovative designs have transformed the relaxed Havaianas into real exclusive jewels. Havaianas have been the favourite choice of celebrities. Special pairs have been created and gifted to many Oscar nominees. In 2004 an exclusive edition, designed by renowned jeweller, H. Stern, was launched. With 18 carat gold and diamonds, this pair was truly an unforgettable gem. In 2006, an exclusive and limited edition pair was valued at over a US$1000 as a result of a glittering black diamond dangling next to the renowned Havaianas logo. Alagoa Nova in Brazil is where the jeweled Havaianas are born. The objective of this collaboration exceeded the aesthetic precedents and the glamour of an industry that reached a unique position in the summer footwear market. At the base of this production there is an important social project that seeks to create work places and improve the lives of the inhabitants of this forgotten village. This special collection was idealized by LetĂcia Branco Linton, the designer of LVL Jewels in Sao Paulo. The sparkling Havainas are handmade by 65 talented ladies who work on every pair, right from carving the braid that covers the straps of the soles to placing the crystals. Each pair takes one hour to be created. The result is an elegant and relaxed alternative for the woman who likes to be fashionable even during casual moments. What is also special about the special collection is that each pair comes with an extra thread that allows you to add ornaments and transform the straps into bracelets and chains for your hands or ankles. Avaiable at Hamac boutiques in Muscat.

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Melange

Simply Musts wLounge April / May 2011

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MELANGE

SIMPLY MUSTS

A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of luxury

Spreading Peace Assya jewellery brings you a beautiful combination of genuine amethyst with delicate 18ct gold links in a simple yet glam bracelet. Complete with a single circular Peace engraved charm. Designed to be worn twice wrapped around the wrist for a double chain look. www.harrods.com

Looks that Kill The Parmigiani Fleurier brand - a watch making adventure that transcends the mundane - was created in Fleurier in 1996 and was guided by the passion of a man who remained faithful to the very essence of the watchmaker. Michel Parmigiani, master horologist, renowned restorer and talented creator of mechanical time-keepers dedicates his knowledge, which has been enriched by past and present events, to the benefit of the brand. In 1996, the Sandoz Family Foundation actively became involved in Parmigianiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development, thereby allowing the first watch collections to see the light of day. Available at Gallery Argan, Bareeq Al Shatti

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Tease your Senses A distinct Smell of freshness, an elegant feel and you know Guerlain is back with its Aqua Allegoria collection and this season we have Jasminora. Thierry Wasser carefully selected the innocent and sensual Calabria jasmine, lily of the valley, the tiny freesia and finished with highlights from cyclamen and galbanum, thus creating a fresh burst of spring. This 125ml bottle is sure to enrapture your senses. Available at Capital Store outlets

Irresistible Fashion Hermes 2011 spring/summer collection brings Roulis Alligator Handbag in mesmerising azure. The incorporation of chaine dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ancre link into the design of leather goods works well for this beauty. The shoulder strap of Hermes Roulis is detachable at one side allowing two different ways of carrying - on the shoulder or across the body. A definite must have simply for its elegant beauty. Available at all Hermes boutiques

April / May 2011

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Gifts that Entice The new Amouage collection is classy and contemporary which includes wallets, credit card holders, business card and key cases to women’s cosmetic bags, luggage tags, men’s wash bags and passport cases in vibrant and beautiful with shocking contrast like black with gold and tan with orange, bold purple with baby pink and black with fuchsia. The best of their best is the one-of-a-kind Domino and Backgammon set in a sophisticated leather case stamped with the House’s exclusive and signature jacquard. Hand made by skilled Italian artisans in Florida the hub of finest Italian leather goods. Available at Amouage boutiques

Attractive Time A definite horology rarity. A. Lange & Sohne introduced The RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Merite”. An immaculate enamel face with three part dial an exclusive time keeping instrument that is fully focused on precise time measurement. Complete with an extremely complicated chronometer with a fuse-andchain transmission. Hand stitched crocodile strap. Lustering with 32 jewels and 1 diamond endstone. A Limited collection with only 100 platinum cased watches. Available at A’Lange & Sohne boutiques, Dubai

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April / May 2011

Lyrical Instrument Reflecting John Lennon’s genius as a musician, Mont Blanc has launched John Lennon Special Edition. Inspired by John Lennon’s Guitar, the pen incorporates several design elements evoking the music of the 1950s and 1960s. It has managed to capture Lennon’s incredible soul and philosophy. The gentle grooves chiselled into the black precious resin of the barrel mimic those of an old-style vinyl record, and the clip is shaped like a period guitar head completed with tuning pegs and etched strings on the neck. In addition, the rhodium-plated, 18K gold nib bears the sign so often traced in flowers, with only 1940 pieces up for grabs, marking the year of Lennon’s birth. Available in Mont Blanc boutiques worldwide

Kettle that Sings This celebrated kettle with the bird that sings when the water has boiled has been a great success since it was introduced in 1985. For Alessi it represents a meeting of great design and mass production methods, a combination that Michael Graves worked hard to achieve, applying his personal visual code which fused influences from Art Deco to Pop Art and even the language of cartoons. Available at Tavola, Qurm

April / May 2011

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MELANGE

Lounge

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet 

Jamie Ford

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n the opening pages of Jamie Ford’s stunning debut novel, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, Henry Lee comes upon a crowd gathered outside the Panama Hotel, once the gateway to Seattle’s Japantown. It has been boarded up for decades, but now the new owner has made an incredible discovery: the belongings of Japanese families, left when they were rounded up and sent to internment camps during World War II. As Henry looks on, the owner opens a Japanese parasol. This simple act takes old Henry Lee back to the 1940s, at the height of the war, when young Henry’s world is a jumble of confusion and excitement, and to his father, who is obsessed with the war in China and having Henry grow up American. While “scholarshipping” at the exclusive Rainier Elementary, where the white kids ignore him, Henry meets Keiko Okabe, a young Japanese American student. Amid the chaos of blackouts, curfews, and FBI raids, Henry and Keiko forge a bond of friendship–and innocent love–that transcends the long-standing prejudices of their Old World ancestors. And after Keiko and her family are swept up in the evacuations to the internment camps, she and Henry are left only with the hope that the war will end, and that their promise to each other will be kept. Forty years later, Henry Lee is certain that the parasol belonged to Keiko. In the hotel’s dark dusty basement he begins looking for signs of the Okabe family’s belongings and for a long-lost object whose value he cannot begin to measure. Now a widower, Henry is still trying to find his voice–words that might explain the actions of his nationalistic father; words that might bridge the gap between him and his modern, Chinese American son; words that might help him confront the choices he made many years ago. Set during one of the most conflicted and volatile times in American history, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is an extraordinary story of commitment and enduring hope. In Henry and Keiko, Jamie Ford has created an unforgettable duo whose story teaches us of the power of forgiveness and the human heart. Jamie Ford is the great-grandson of Nevada mining pioneer Min Chung, who immigrated in 1865 from Kaiping, China, to San Francisco, where he adopted the Western name “Ford,” thus confusing countless generations. Ford is an award-winning short-story writer.

Set during one of the most conflicted and volatile times in American history, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet is an extraordinary story of commitment and enduring hope.

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ony Blair is a politician who defines our times. His emergence as Labour Party leader in 1994 marked a seismic shift in British politics. Within a few short years, he had transformed his party and rallied the country behind him, becoming prime minister in 1997 with the biggest victory in Labour’s history, and bringing to an end eighteen years of Conservative government. He took Labour to a historic three terms in office as Britain’s dominant political figure of the last two decades. A Journey is Tony Blair’s firsthand account of his years in office and beyond. Here he describes for the first time his role in shaping our recent history, from the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death to the war on terror. He reveals the leadership decisions that were necessary to reinvent his party, the relationships with colleagues including Gordon Brown, the grueling negotiations for peace in Northern Ireland, the implementation of the biggest reforms to public services in Britain since 1945, and his relationships with leaders on the world stage—Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, Vladimir Putin, George W. Bush. He analyzes the belief in ethical intervention that led to his decisions to go to war in Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Afghanistan, and, most controversially of all, in Iraq. A Journey is a book about the nature and uses of political power. In frank, unflinching, often wry detail, Tony Blair charts the ups and downs of his career to provide insight into the man as well as the politician and statesman. He explores the challenges of leadership, and the ramifications of standing up, clearly and forcefully, for what one believes in. He also looks ahead, to emerging power relationships and economies, addressing the vital issues and complexities of our global world. Few British prime ministers have shaped the nation’s course as profoundly as Tony Blair, and his achievements and his legacy will be debated for years to come. Here, uniquely, we have his own journey, in his own words.

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A Journey: My Political Life 

Tony Blair

A Journey is a book about the nature and uses of political power. In frank, unflinching, often wry detail, Tony Blair charts the ups and downs of his career

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