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PLATINUM CLUB

FINANCE & INVESTMENT

AUTOMOBILIA

Inside

Trailblazer He has the flag flying high for Oman. Formula 1 driver Ahmad Al Harthy’s passion and dedication keeps his going ahead at full throttle

Design Bugatti L’Or Blanc rewrites the automotive world as Bugatti and Königliche Porzellan-Manufatur Berlin join hands to create the world’s first motor car to be fitted with the finest porcelain

Showcase Restoration of cars is one of the most popular services of the El Sukry Group. Ahmed Al Saqri, the Managing Director, shares about the company’s success and their recent overseas restoration project

Luxe Cars They are meaner, tougher and more power-packed. A listing of some of the adrenaline pumping automobiles in the market

Bikes Harley Davidson brings out two new powerful beasts for 2012 – the Dyna Switchback and the V-Rod Anniversary Edition motorcycles

August 2011

Real Estate Savills Oman is one of the foremost property management consultants in the Sultanate. Among the many remarkable projects they currently handle, the Opera Mall is one of the most prestigious

AUTOLuxe The One-77 from Aston Martin embodies all the marque’s fascianting characteristics

First Look There’s no dodging this speedster. The new 2011 Dodge Charger packs in quite a punch on the road

drive The Audi R8 Spyder scorches the tarmac in Muscat

ART & DESIGN

Impressions Renowned Italian artist Caravaggio remains one of the art’s most iconic names. A look at his life that was just as arresting as his works

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GOURMET & HOSPITALITY

MELANGE

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TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

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Culinaire The hotels have set up elaborate Iftar treats. A roundup of the some not-to-be-missed Iftar offerings

Destination Koh Samui, the pristine and fascinating destination in Thailand is a great spot to holiday if you are looking to get away from the crowd

Lounge Must-reads of the month – The Moor’s Last Sigh by Salman Rushdie and State of Wonder by Ann Patchett

Gadgets Phones of the moment from LG, Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson Gallery Vertu’s new smartphone Constellation Quest is designed to seamlessly blend with the lifestyles of discerning users

108 luxury

Simply Musts A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of

ADVERTORIAL 82 Elica – Lighting up your space

STYLE & BEAUTY

Fashion Amal Raisi, the young, vibrant fashion designer is among the top names of personalities taking Oman to a new level with their creativity and entrepreneurship

View The colours for the seasons are electrifying. Dior International Pro Make up Team Artist Emmanuelle Geoffrey talks about what’s in and what’s not

August August 2011 2011

Reflections Motoring, automobiles and the fascination What is it about automobiles that captivate people so much? I have used the term people for there are quite a few women out there who are just as passionate about cars as men are. So going back to the subject, what is this passion that people have for cars? That fervour which enables car enthusiasts to talk endlessly about brands, models, torque, RPM, engine make..... you get the drift? In our quest to put together the Creme de la Creme Automotive Issue for this month, we came across many automobile aficionados who can talk about cars often better than a sales guy in an automobile showroom. For these people, at the risk of making it sound like a cliche, cars are their passion just as history would be to a historian. And often, they embrace their passion to make it a part of their lives. In the August issue of Creme de la Creme, we have rounded up some of the finest cars from the most noted car manufacturers in the world. From the car draped in porcelain to the Spyder that pulsates the senses has been featured in this special issue. We also met racer Ahmad Al Harthy who keeps Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flag flying proudly and is sure to bring more joy to the nation. Another interesting feature is on the upcoming Opera Mall in the Royal Opera House premises. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see it open! There are many more great reads in the August issue, so let me not keep you. Do mail your comments and suggestions - your mails keep us going. Until we meet again...

Editor anne@sjsoman.com

August 2011

PRESENTED BY

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Crew

August 2011 Vol - 3 Issue - 33

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

Web Design SHERWIN .D

International Correspondent VAILIA FERNANDES

EVENTS MUSTAFA ABDEL RAHMAN SEEMA AL BALUSHI

PHOTOGRAPHER ELVIS FERRAO

SUBSCRIPTIONS AMINTA D’SOUZA

ADVERTISING Oman KALPANA D’SILVA NAVEED SHARIF UAE AUDREY ALMEIDA International RUPA FERNANDES BARRY COELHO DISTRIBUTION ARUN DAS ABDULLAH 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

August 2011

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE AFTER YOU HAVE ENJOYED READING IT

Platinum Club

Trailblazer w Design w Showcase w Luxe Wheels w Bikes August August2011 2011

PLATINUM CLUB

TRAILBLAZER

assionate, dedicated and extremely focused, Ahmad Al Harthy is Oman’s top racing driver and one of Middle East’s leading international sportsmen. Al Harthy came into prominence in 2006 in the Bahrain based Thunder Arabia Championship where he broke new ground as the first Omani born driver to compete in single-seater (or formula) racing. Following that, during the 2010 motor racing season, Al Harthy chose to move into the ultra-competitive world of sports car racing by signing to race for the Redline Racing team in

Racing Ahead Ahmad Al Harthy has been in the news for all the good reasons. Crème de la Crème interviews the young racer about his racing successes in 2011 and his future plans for the next racing season

August 2011

the Porsche Carrera Cup Great Britain Championship - a support category to the UK’s biggest motor racing series. It was easily the most high profile year of action in Al Harthy’s career who was seen as a regular podium contender in the Pro-Am 1 Class of the prestigious championship. The 2011 motor racing season has been equally exciting and challenging for Al Harthy. Although Al Harthy suffered a premature end to his debut in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup at Silverstone this year, with a timing belt failure forcing him to retire on the opening lap of the British Grand Prix support race, he looks confident and determined for the upcoming championship and speaks to Crème de la Crème about it. It is not always about winning “We as racers have to look back into our performance from the beginning till the end in every championship we take part. It is important to see how we performed during the entire racing season which includes understanding specifics like car performance, individual performance, external factors like track and weather conditions etc. In a sport like motor racing, we have to depend a lot on the car we drive in and if there is a hitch in that area, there isn’t much we can do at that point of time. We were unfortunate to experience what happened at Silverstone but at the same time we learned a lot from that event. What was more important to me was that I was able to be part of such a prestigious event

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What was more important to me was that I was able to be part of such a prestigious event where I could not only showcase my skills as a racer but also take Oman on a global platform

”

August 2011

where I could not only showcase my skills as a racer but also take Oman on a global platform.” A year full of surprises “This year has been great in terms of the British championship. We were extremely focused right from the beginning which resulted in a podium finish in almost every British event so far. There were extra championships that we entered as well starting off with the French Championship which allowed us to perform at the highest level.”

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This year has been great in terms of the British championship. We were extremely focused right from the beginning which resulted in a podium finish in almost every British event so far

”

August 2011

Racing for the Nation “After having raced at the French Championship, I got the opportunity to race at the Porsche World Cup held in Germany which is known to be the hardest and the longest track in the world. I participate in these races mainly to compete and showcase my skills as well as develop myself as a racer and seeing the Omani flag in these huge international events is quite an honour. Unfortunately the race track was quite wet and we did not achieve our desired results but that does not affect my racing capabilities, winning and losing is part of every sport.” Future Ready “Being part of the Porsche Supercup series was a big boost to my career as a racer because this is where I could showcase my skills as a racer. I raced on several different tracks which made me stronger as a racer and well prepared to face any challenges in the future.” Prepared to take up a challenge “Usually a race weekend will consist of testing on Friday, qualifying on Saturday and racing on a Sunday which is

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I believe Oman should have a strong Go Karting foundation if not a formula racing track for young boys to practice on it

the usual scenario. I have been competing on these tracks for the past four years and my preparation for each race differs from place to place. For example my preparation will be different for races in France, Germany and the Porsche Supercup because each of the tracks are different in terms of weather conditions, track layouts etc.” Focused on winning “My next racing championship is the Snetterton 300 circuit at the Porsche Carrera Cup GB Championship which I am looking forward to end with a podium finish. As a racer it is all about performance, I have tested the track on the media day and I am happy to say that I am more than ready this time.” Importance of team support “My team consists of the team owner, engineers, mechanics and team mates who move with me wherever I go. We work as a team and work out strategies and discuss our performance in each championship. In this sort of sport, a lot of support, trust and motivation is required

and I am lucky enough to have a strong team with me all the time.” Local support required “Circuit racing is something that Oman was never introduced to before until I started racing. I believe Oman should have a strong Go Karting foundation if not a formula racing track for young boys to practice on it. I started my career with Go Karting and then went on to circuit racing. I know that there are so many young talents out there who wants to race like I do today for which a lot has to be done locally to support their interest.” Voicing an opinion “As a racer my responsibility is to also spread awareness about road safety. I have made several visits to local schools here in Oman and spoken a lot about road safety. Oman needs a proper foundation to be built where young boys can hone their skills in Go Karting and also learn the basics of road safety. Hopefully in the long run, Oman will then see more racers emerging in the international scene.”

August 2011

platinum club

design

Art on wheels Bugatti and Königliche PorzellanManufatur Berlin have together created an astonishing automotive – The L’Or Blanc. The unique version of a Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport is the world’s first motor car to wear the finest porcelain both on the exterior and interior. A report...

ith the partnership between Bugatti and the Königliche Porzellan-Manufatur Berlin (KPM), the renowned manufacturer emphasises the ability in creating pieces of automotive art. The “L’Or Blanc” celebrated its world premiere at an exclusive unveiling ceremony on June 30, 2011 at the KPM workshops in Berlin. This unique version of a Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport is the world’s first motor car to wear the finest porcelain on its body, as well as in its cabin. It captivates with an abstract exterior design.

From the studio Amidst pure white walls bright spotlights illuminate a Bugatti Grand Sport that is placed in the center of the spacious room. We have entered the hidden world of the 32

August 2011

Bugatti Design Studio. The team around Bugatti’s Head of Design Achim Anscheidt works in a quiet and focused atmosphere as they walk around their latest object of desire. Several times they stop, take a step to the left and to the right; they bend down and up again, looking intensely at the Grand Sport from different angles. They analyse the reflections of light on the car’s body before they step back for a moment to get an overall impression of their work. Thin blue lines flow over the bright white exterior of the fastest convertible in the world. It feels like visiting the atelier of an American pop-art artist. The creation bears the name “L’Or Blanc.” It represents an automobile that redefines the art of design. If you look at it through the eyes of a designer, you will recognize that it is the reflection of the studio lights on the body that attracts their interest. Positioned beneath a special light, the car is set in an ideal environment that provides an excellent image of the reflections. The studio light is reflected on the invisible edges between the body shapes of the Grand Sport. In numerous stages each reflection line is translated by Bugatti’s designers onto the car body that has been pre-

painted in a vibrant white tone. They use a precision tape made of Japanese soft tissue that can be easily torn off by hand. It adheres perfectly to sulphur-containing plasticine. By stretching them to a certain degree, these tapes are ‘lined’ in pieces up to five meters long across the whole exterior of the car. If the line does not fully meet the intention of the designers, they place a correction tape above the original line. This process is repeated until the final line has the right tension and character. Between the styling steps, the team looks at the car from a distance to evaluate the relation of the stripes to the white spaces. This is also the best way to ensure that lines flow from one side of the body across the roof and the rear to the opposite side. Even the smallest imperfections are being revised meticulously, as the final target is to achieve unrivalled perfection. Finally, the lines stretch across the perfectly shaped Bugatti like a grid of light reflections. Over the course of several weeks, the team of designers develop the final composition of dynamic bends and delicate lines that run over the automotive piece of art like the serpentines of the Italian Stelvio Pass. August 2011

In the next step, Bugatti’s paint specialists dedicate themselves to the further completion of the masterpiece. Over the course of three weeks, each millimeter of the marked lines are being filled by hand with the characteristic blue colour. In addition, the whole body receives five layers of clear lacquer. A varying and powerful gradient of the two colours is generated because the team had used a combination of tapes with different widths. While the blue lines dominate over the white spaces in the lower section of the convertible, the relation of colours inverts on the way to the roof so that the intense white appears even stronger. Twelve elements, made of finest porcelain at the Berlin based manufactory, complete the aesthetic approach of this special Grand Sport. Shift to the workshops of the Königliche PorzellanManufaktur in the heart of Berlin: following a tradition of around 250 years, at this location more than 170 craftsmen and specialists produce precious items, as today’s expression of porcelain art. Hand-made plaster moulds are needed to craft the unique porcelain elements that appear in the exterior and interior of the “L’Or Blanc”, and with a tremendous attention to detail, each mould is created and optimised in a several-week-long process at the research and development department. The team has to run a number of dedicated tests with the raw material to check the impact of the natural shrinkage of around 16 percent during firing and drying. Finally, the porcelain elements fit seamlessly to the Bugatti components. “Porcelain is one of the strongest materials but the grade of quality depends significantly on the excellence of the manufacturing process. We had to assure that the inlays perfectly fit to the filler caps, it has been a challenge for us to exactly calculate the shrinkage of porcelain,” explains Thomas Wenzel, Head of Design at KPM. The “L’Or Blanc” is the world’s first automobile

“

The “L’Or Blanc” is the world’s first automobile to be equipped with porcelain, and the development team invested a lot of effort to guarantee that each item is capable of performing in every driving situation in the most powerful car on the market

”

to be equipped with porcelain, and the development team invested a lot of effort to guarantee that each item is capable of performing in every driving situation in the most powerful car on the market. Before their application to the car, the porcelain elements were extensively examined in regard to automotive safety and quality to optimally protect the passengers in case of an accident. As part of the exterior design, porcelain is used for the inlays of the centre wheel badges, the fuel filler cap and the oil filler cap as well as the signature “EB” badge at the rear. Their shiny white surface blends in with the brilliant bright finish of the paint suggesting that the car would be coated with a thin layer of porcelain, too. “At first, it seems to be an unusual idea to use porcelain in a car, especially in the world’s fastest convertible,”

August 2011

comments Dr. Stefan Brungs, Director of Sales and Marketing at Bugatti Automobiles. “But this is what Bugatti stands for: the realisation of exceptional ideas whilst striving for the utmost in quality and aesthetics. This allows us to continue Ettore Bugatti’s heritage, who himself loved to experiment with new materials.” Besides the signed porcelain inlays on the sides of the centre console, an intarsia made of finest porcelain is fixed to the rear panel between the seats. Similar to the exterior porcelain elements this item carries the relief of the famous elephant in an upright standing position that has been created by sculptor Rembrandt Bugatti. His brother Ettore had used the original draft to cast the radiator mascot for the Bugatti Royale. This elephant is a synonym

for the brand still today. Embedded in the top of the centre console, there is a fine porcelain dish with edges finished in an exclusive diamond polishing – a technique that has been applied by the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin for the very first time. The precious dish can be removed and is part of a picnic set that was exclusively designed by KPM for the Bugatti car. The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport “L’Or Blanc” presented in Berlin, is a one-of-a-kind creation. Nevertheless, the partnership is supposed to be continued, and Bugatti’s designers received a lot of inspiration from porcelain painting offering a variety of new opportunities for the design.

August 2011

PLATINUM CLUB

Showcase

For the love of cars The El Sukry Group is considered one of the leading automotive services companies and the largest independent repair facility in Oman today. Their restoration works have received some rave reviews across the globe

August 2011

l Sukry has been a pioneer in the field of automobiles in the Sultanate for many years. For starters, it was the first independent auto repair and servicing company in Oman. Moreover, it was the first company to introduce new technology such as the first automatic car wash machine, paint spray booth and chassis alignment system along with many other firsts in its field of business. Today one of their new departments is focused in professional restoration services in Oman. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for sentimental value or just an investment, the fact is that old cars are becoming increasingly valuable, and moreover are in short supply.

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Today one of their new departments is focused in professional restoration services in Oman

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In one of their recent projects of car restoration, the Austin Atlantic was showcased at a car show in Sweden that received rave reviews from critics. Ahmed Al Saqri, Managing Director of El Sukry in a candid chat tells us more about their work and how they have succeeded in the last few years in the restoration business. A proud moment “The Austin Atlantic was our first overseas restoration job which took us three and half months to complete and we are extremely proud of the work that we have done on it. We showcased the Austin Atlantic at a show called The Techno Classic in Sweden earlier this year. We requested the owner to showcase the car at the show before he took custody of his car. “It was our first international exhibition where we got the opportunity to showcase the skills of restoration in Oman. People had absolutely no idea about Middle East being able to provide such services. The reaction we received from people was amazing because they admired the car and enjoyed looking at all the curves and workmanship. They could not believe that the work was done here in Oman because Europe is known as the leader for car restoration works.”

August 2011

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The older it is the better as they are less complicated than the new cars of today. All it requires is a certain skill set to repair such old cars which we are quite experienced at

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A humble start “We started work on car restoration almost six years back and we have relied mostly on word of mouth publicity. We have our friends and suppliers based in Europe who spread the news about our restoration works. The advantage of doing such restoration work here in Oman is that we are cost effective compared to Europe and the shipping cost is a small percentage if we consider the entire scale of work that is done here. Since we are a tax free country and where labour charges are significantly cheaper, our costs are relatively cheaper than Europe.” Sourcing of materials “Since we are an automotive repair facility, we have access to all kinds of materials for restoration of cars like paints, body work fabrication, upholstery, engine parts, rubbers, wind screens, door glasses, etc. We have been doing restoration for local cars for the past six years and thus we are quite experienced in this sort of job today. “El Sukry has been in the business of cars for the past 30 years and I am proud to say that we have suppliers from all around the globe right from New Zealand across to California. It isn’t an easy job to restore cars as a lot of sourcing and research has to be done. One has to take a special interest in classic and vintage cars to be able to do

August 2011

restoration of cars. Having said that, I am a lover of vintage cars.” Customer satisfaction “We do restoration of cars that are as old as the 1900s. Old cars are not a problem at all. The older it is the better as they are less complicated than the new cars of today. All it requires is a certain skill set to repair such old cars which we are quite experienced at. We draw the line somewhere if we see that a car is beyond repair, we will inform the owner about it before we start any work on it. We want to be realistic and fair to all our clients.” Specialised labour “We have people here in our facility who are specialised in different aspects of restoration of a car. Some are experienced in woodwork, carpentry, upholstery etc. They do the work according to the structure given by us.” Authenticity is of prime importance “I take a lot of interest in vintage cars personally and do a lot of research on any car that comes to us for restoration. El Sukry as a company deals with all sort of cars. Modern cars are more or less the same but when we are talking

bout restoration of old cars from the 1970s or 50s there is a certain way to restore in order to keep the authenticity of the cars. We cannot use modern materials on an old car as they will lose the value completely. We have to look into each and every detail of the car like patterns of the seat covers, the stitches of the leather, door handles, carpet etc. The whole purpose of restoration is to maintain the authenticity of the car by making it look as it was originally made.” Upcoming projects Our next big restoration project is a 1952 Buick which is owned by a Swedish gentleman and we are looking forward After piercings to start work on it by September this year. and We have also done restoration on brands like Mercedes Benz scarifications Olga Berlutiand Rolls -Royce.

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continues to experiment A with valuable investmentof the language During restoration of vintage cars, there is no value on it skin. She pays homage to except for a sentimental value. Here at El Sukry we do work primarily on hightribal end vehicles. Hence we are quite Mayan traditions bydifferent in our work procedures since we apply a lot of technology inserting implants under and research in most of our work. When a vehicles comes leather intothe our facility, a lot of investigation and background check

”

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The whole purpose of restoration is to maintain the authenticity of the car by making it look as it was originally made

is done before any work is started.

Ahmed Al Saqri

August 2011

PLATINUM CLUB

LUXE WHEELS

Porsche Boxster S Black

Wheels of desire

Crème de la Crème chooses some of the most exquisite and powerpacked automobiles that has made it to the news recently. Remarkably crafted, feature-packed, exceptional performers and at the top of their game, these automotives are just about every serious auto lover’s dream. Here are our favourites from the speed pack list

August 2011

PORSCHE BOXSTER S BLACK Boasting of 10bhp and seven more torques than the standard S, the Porsche Boxster S Black is limited to just 987 models and is on our wish list! The USP of this amazing new mid-engined sports car is that it is black all over. Black body, black hood and black 19 inch Boxster Spyder wheels accentuate the muscular appearance of the top roadster. Porsche has maintained the colour concept of the Boxster S Black Edition in every detail. The rear side air intake grills are painted in black as is the twin tailpipe of the exhaust system. The model lettering painted in black on the rear luggage compartment lid identifies the Black Edition as much as the embossed model designation on the side of the fabric hood. The rollover bars are painted in black as well. We also love the trim strips of the dashboard and the gear selector are painted in black. The dials on the instrument cluster are black as are the partial leather seats with the Porsche emblem embossed in the headrests. The limited edition badge on the glove compartment identifies the sports car as a model of the Black Edition. And if all that is not enough, the truly noir lovers can opt for sultry black leather interior. A 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine with Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), mounted in front of the rear axle of the Boxster S Black Edition, supplies power to the car. Its output is 320 hp, ten hp more than in the Boxster S. The engine reaches its rated power at 7,200 rpm, the Boxster S power pack at 6,400 rpm. Torque of 370 Nm boosted by ten Newton metres is available at 4,750 rpm. How’s that for speed? FERRARI FOUR Ferrari fans have been waiting for the FF and the super car is finally here. The FF, or the Ferrari Four, ushers in an entirely new GT sports car concept. This new V12 melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility, superb comfort and sophisticated elegance,

guaranteeing both driver and passengers an absolutely unique driving experience. The FF features the company’s first ever four-wheel drive system. Ferrari’s exclusive, patented 4RM (fourwheel drive) weighs 50 per cent less than a conventional four-wheel drive system, maintaining perfect weight distribution (53 per cent over the rear axle). 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. Exceptional performance levels come courtesy of the new 6,262 cc direct injection engine which develops 660 CV at 8,000 rpm. In tandem with its transaxle dual-clutch F1 gearbox, stunning acceleration figures (0-100 km/h in 3.7 sec.) are guaranteed. The new model’s class-leading weight-to-power ratio of 2.7 kg/CV, along with its ideal weight distribution, ensures exceptionally responsive handling. The result is that owners will be able to enjoy the FF’s prowess over a wide range of uses: city driving, on low grip or snow-covered surfaces and on the track. Performance aside, Maranello’s latest model also offers standards of passenger space, comfort, in-car spec and equipment previously unheard of in such a highperformance car. It can comfortably accommodate four people and their luggage, thanks to the best cabin space and boot capacity (450 litres extendable to 800) figures in its category, including four-door cars.

is redefining the very pinnacle of the world super sports car market. The awe-inspiring car packs in brutal power, outstanding lightweight engineering and phenomenal handling precision. For Lamborghini, design is always the beauty of aggressive power, the elegance of breathtaking dynamics. The new Aventador is every inch a Lamborghini, clothed in the brand’s characteristic and distinctive design language sporting extremely powerful proportions, its exact lines and precise surfaces, and with taut muscularity in every one of its details. The designers in the Centro Stile Lamborghini have carefully developed this design language to give the Aventador a significant new edge. It is an avant garde work of art, an incredibly dynamic sculpture, from the sharply honed front end through the extremely low roofline to the distinctive rear diffuser breathtaking. The technology package of the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon-fiber that combines exceptional lightweight engineering with the highest levels of stiffness and safety. The new twelve-cylinder with 6.5 liters’ displacement and 515 kW / 700 hp brings together the ultimate in highrevving pleasure with astonishing low-end torque. According to its tradition, Lamborghini’s new flagship bears the name of a bull- a particularly courageous specimen from the world of the Spanish Corrida. Aventador was the name of a bull that entered into battle in October 1993 at the Saragossa Arena, earning the ‘‘Trofeo de la Peña La Madroñera’’ for its outstanding courage.

LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP 700-4 With the Aventador LP 700-4, Automobili Lamborghini

Lamborghini Aventador

August 2011

Ferrari Four

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The Vantage S is instantly recognisable as a true Aston Martin, characterised by its purposeful stance conveying its agility and performance capability

”

August 2011

ASTON MARTIN V8 VANTAGE S The Aston Martin Vantage range comes of age with the new V8 Vantage S characterised by a host of new driverfocussed features all designed to push the honed dynamics of the standard Vantage to a new benchmark level. The rationale behind the V8 Vantage S was to push the boundaries of the already acclaimed V8 Vantage with the highest levels of driver involvement possible. Aston Martin engineers set about enhancing nearly every dynamic element of the car to create a highly distinctive driving experience. Aston Martin’s own 4.7 litre V8 engine has been engineered to deliver peak power of 430 bhp (436 PS / 321 kW) at 7300 rpm and torque of 490 Nm (361 lb.ft) at 5000 rpm and is coupled with a new ground-up developed Sportshift™ II transmission specifically designed for the Vantage S with seven short ratio gears to deliver the most engaging and intense driver involvement.

At the core of the Vantage S is the new seven speed Sportshift™ II automated manual transmission, offered as standard and delivers exceedingly rapid gear changes, twenty per cent quicker than Sportshift™. The extra gear permits shorter well-spaced ratios taking advantage of the optimum torque, which combined with a shorter final drive ratio of 4.182:1 delivers quicker acceleration and an enhanced sporting feel. The Vantage S is instantly recognisable as a true Aston Martin, characterised by its purposeful stance conveying its agility and performance capability. From the front, a new lower front bumper finished in perfectly-aligned carbon fibre houses a larger air intake feeding the engine and front brakes. This one’s quite a looker! BMW X3 Following on from its successful debut at the Paris Motor

Show in October 2010, the all new BMW X3 has made its debut in Oman earlier this year. Entering a new era in driving dynamics and innovative technology, the second generation model arrives seven years after the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer introduced its original X3 Sports Activity Vehicle. With a totally redesigned exterior and interior, the new X3 model is instantly recognisable as a member of the BMW X family that includes the popular BMW X6, X5 and X1 models. The new striking design accentuations convey urban elegance and versatility. The combination of a flat front and a high rear end indicate the vehicle’s sporting characteristics, whilst the forward-slanting BMW kidney grille, large headlights, powerful looking front apron and the distinctive contoured bonnet signalize self-assured presence. The side view of the new BMW X3 is characterised by a unique

August 2011

BMW X3

interpretation of typical BMW X design features, including powerfully flared wheel arches and the short distance between the front axle and instrument panel. The modern, high-quality interior has been ergonomically designed to ensure optimum comfort with an outstanding level of spaciousness and comfortable seating for five people. Sporty elegance is highlighted by technology-oriented styling, including an 8.8 inch highresolution navigation system, the largest on-board monitor in its segment. The second generation model is available in Oman with two new six-cylinder engine variants boasting twin-turbo technology and an eight-speed automatic transmission: the xDrive35i and xDrive 28i. The top-of-the-range xDrive 35i engine with 306bhp enables the X3 to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds; the average fuel consumption is just 8.8 litres per 100 km and CO₂ emissions of 204g p/km making the X3 class-leading in terms of performance and fuel efficiency.

August 2011

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With a totally redesigned exterior and interior, the new X3 model is instantly recognisable as a member of the BMW X family that includes the popular BMW X6, X5 and X1 models

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JAGUAR XJ Revolutionary, not evolutionary, the XJ is truly a product of the 21st century and is the clearest indication yet of the singular sense of purpose behind Design Director Ian Callum’s vision for the future of Jaguar. The unique full-length panoramic glass roof that floods the cabin with natural light allows the XJ to offer an unrivalled sense of spaciousness and occasion for driver and passengers and at the same time retain the sleek coupé-like profile and lithe stance for which Jaguars are famous. This petrol V6 engine has been tried and tested in the classleading XF sports saloon, and offers a commendable blend of performance and economy. The 3.0-litre engine boasts four valves per cylinder, quad overhead camshafts, variable cam phasing (VCP) technology and variable geometry air intakes. The XJ is also renowned for its dynamic abilities and the engine and transmission have received specific attention in order to boost driveability and low speed responsiveness. The car’s construction not only improves agility and performance but also fuel economy, the XJ achieving 10.9 litres per 100km

(25.9mpg) and emits just 272 g/km of CO2. The cabin of the XJ blends elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provides an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully-crafted leather and wood veneer surfaces. Both standard and long-wheelbase models are available, for an even more sumptuous and refined experience for rear seat passengers. Advanced new technology has allowed Jaguar’s interior designers to create an environment more akin to a state-ofthe-art living space than a car cabin. The Jaguar Voice feature allows the driver to use spoken commands to control the audio, climate control and the navigation system. Premium surround sound options include the topof-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system that is comparable in audio quality to the best in-home entertainment. Advanced infotainment features also include hard-drive based audio and navigation systems and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

Jaguar XJ

August 2011

MERCEDES-BENZ M-CLASS Style, class and impeccable engineering are synonymous with Mercedes-Benz. The luxury auto manufacturer has created some of the most desirable cars in the world and continues to keep the legacy strong. The new Mercedes-Benz M-Class raises the bar in the SUV world with its leading-edge automotive technology. The new M-Class boasts optimum energy efficiency, leading standards of passive safety, outstanding ride comfort combined with superb driving dynamics, as well as a completely revamped interior design offering excellent ergonomics among its key strengths. The low fuel consumption and exemplary emissions figures make impressive reading – on average, the entire model range burns 25 percent less fuel than the predecessor. Never before has Mercedes-Benz succeeded in cutting fuel consumption by such a huge margin with an SUV model change. An ultramodern engine line-up, a class-beating Cd value of 0.32, extensive

BlueEFFICIENCY measures, as well as new development tools such as the “energy-transparent vehicle” all play their part in delivering the good energy efficiency figures. The ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is particularly outstanding in this respect: it is 28 percent more economical than its predecessor, consumes just 6.0 l per 100 km on the NEDC driving cycle (158 g CO2/km) and can cover as much as 1500 kilometres on a single tank of fuel. In line with the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy, the new M-Class represents the embodiment of the MercedesBenz holistic safety concept of Real Life Safety, which is derived from what happens in a real accident situation. In combination with the front and rear deformation zones, the high-strength passenger cell of the M-Class provides a highly effective foundation for the occupant protection systems. Both active safety and driver-fitness safety in the new M-Class are further improved by assistance systems that will already be familiar, primarily from the S-Class and E-Class.

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The new M-Class boasts optimum energy efficiency, leading standards of passive safety, outstanding ride comfort combined with superb driving dynamics, as well as a completely revamped interior design offering excellent ergonomics among its key strengths

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August 2011

PLATINUM CLUB

bikeS

custom-tourer than can swap into a street cruiser in a few minutes and a special 10th Anniversary Edition of the VRod. Harley Davidson’s 2012 launches are as exciting as the iconic motorbike manufacturer. Harley-Davidson Dyna® Switchback The new Dyna® Switchback motorcycle from HarleyDavidson® is a quick-change artist. With its colourmatched hard saddlebags and a fork-mounted windshield in place, the Switchback is a custom touring motorcycle. But in seconds, the detachable saddlebags and quickdetach windshield can be removed without tools. Now the Switchback is a custom street cruiser with a gleaming headlamp nacelle, five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels and a mini-ape handlebar.

Let the journey begin… Harley Davidson has two amazing launches for 2012 – the new Dyna Switchback and the V-Rod® 10th Anniversary Edition motorcycle. Crème de la Crème unveils the two great bikes

August 2011

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

For 2012, HarleyDavidson V-Rod models continue to provide explosive performance and urban-cool styling for riders seeking a singular power-cruiser experience

â&#x20AC;?

August 2011

The Switchback is powered by a muscular Twin Cam 103™ V-Twin engine that delivers strong performance on the street and on the highway. The Switchback is the lightest custom touring motorcycle in its displacement category, and at 727 pounds (330kg) ready-to-ride is 94 pounds (43kg) lighter than a Harley-Davidson Road King®. New front-end geometry, premium suspension components, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, and a low-profile front tyre give the Switchback a stylish ride and a responsive handling. Designed to look great with or without its saddlebags, the Switchback is styled to evoke a classic proportion and clean, straightforward lines from its 17.8 litre fuel tank to the sweep of its full-coverage rear fenders. The bend of the mini-ape handlebar and its pull-back riser, full-length rider footboards and a two-up touring seat offer most riders allday comfort. V-Rod® 10th Anniversary Edition Harley-Davidson celebrates a decade of high-octane performance with the V-Rod® 10th Anniversary Edition motorcycle, one of three models in a 2012 V-Rod line that also includes an updated Night Rod® Special and the V-Rod Muscle®. Introduced as a 2002 model, the original V-Rod led a new era of Harley-Davidson performance. Its 1130cc 60-degree Revolution® V-Twin engine was the first Harley-Davidson production engine equipped with overhead cam shafts and liquid cooling, and came with an high-winding 9000-RPM redline. Inspired by drag-racing bikes and monster-motor customs, the V-Rod debuted with aluminum disc wheels, a raked out chassis and anodized aluminum bodywork, a new styling direction for Harley-Davidson. In just 10 years, the Harley-Davidson V-Rod family grew to include a number of new models. V-Rod took to the track as the basis for the 2007 Custom Vehicle Operations V-Rod Destroyer, a factory drag racing bike. It was also the inspiration for the Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines V-Rod, a four-time world champion in Pro Stock Motorcycle professional drag racing. For 2012, HarleyDavidson V-Rod models continue to provide explosive performance and urban-cool styling for riders seeking a singular power-cruiser experience. All 2012 V-Rod models are powered by the latest version of the Revolution engine, a 1250cc liquidcooled V-Twin with dual overhead camshafts, four-valve cylinder heads and Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI). The powertrain is equipped with an Assist and Slip clutch, five-speed transmission and highperformance carbon-fiber drive belt. Tyres are Michelin Scorcher radials, including a 240mm rear. Brembo® tripledisc performance brakes and anti-lock braking system

August 2011

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The Switchback is the lightest custom touring motorcycle in its displacement category, and at 727 pounds (330kg) ready-to-ride is 94 pounds (43kg) lighter than a HarleyDavidson Road King®

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(ABS) is fitted as standard. The Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free security fob is also fitted on all V-Rod models. Night Rod Special Dark and sinister, the restyled Night Rod Special features a new tapered tail section, lighter-weight wheels, and improved ergonomics with reduced reach to both the rider footpegs and handlebar. Inverted front forks and

retuned rear suspension enhance ride and handling. This is a blacked-out, dead-on power cruiser thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at home in a back alley. A tribute to the original V-Rod that will be offered only in 2012, its Brilliant Silver Pearl bodywork with colour-matched frame is exclusive in the V-Rod line. Extra chrome and polished surfaces on the engine, exhaust and speed screen. This special edition features all of the new additions made to the Night Rod Special for 2012.

August 2011

Milestones showcases a kaleidoscope of Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rich History,

Business & Finance

Real Estate August August2011 2011

ART & DESIGN

real estate

avills Oman was established in 2009, the result of a long standing desire of Savills to be present in the Sultanate. Whilst the entity is still relatively new in Oman, Savills is consistently voted the best performing real estate Company in the UK and is the 4th largest property company in the world. The aspirations for Savills Oman are quite simple. The company harbours no plans to become the largest, however they strive to become respected for the prestigious projects they undertake, their most recent being the Opera Mall. Christopher J. Steel, Managing Partner of Savills Oman takes the CrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me team through the set up of the entire Opera Mall during a site tour and also talks about the real estate market in Oman.

August 2011

What is your general opinion of the real estate scenario in Oman? Do you think we have more supply than demand? There is considerable generalisation about the state of the property market. If one asks retailers how they are faring in these changed economic times there is a tendency to expect all to report that sales are poor, revenues are falling and so on. This is actually not the case. Whilst some lower and mid level retailers are suffering acutely, the luxury end of the market has seen stolid performance and record levels of global sales over recent years. They remain unaffected by the economic conditions. The same can be said for the real estate market here in Oman. Certain sectors are clearly suffering as a result of oversupply and it is well reported that the office market is one of these sectors. However, quality

Opulence Redefined The Opera Mall is set to create a benchmark when shopping and dining is concerned in Oman. The experience will be lavish and something that visitors have never seen before

retail and residential space is still highly in demand. From a sales perspective, good quality property is still selling well, particularly in the favored ITC developments. Prices have come down from the boom time levels but these â&#x20AC;&#x153;valuesâ&#x20AC;? were perhaps more aspirational than actual and the sales today reflect the true and sustainable values.

Please tell us about your ongoing project - the Opera Mall? The Opera Mall initially came about as a result of the need to provide a support venue to The Royal Opera House. The latter, as everyone can now see is an iconic development in the heart of Muscat and will likely attract thousands of visitors every year. With people visiting for performances or to just witness its splendour (it is

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The Opera Mall initially came about as a result of the need to provide a support venue to The Royal Opera House. The latter, as everyone can now see is an iconic development in the heart of Muscat and will likely attract thousands of visitors every year August 2011

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The mall will open in late December this year. It will hopefully be fully operational and all tenants open early in 2012

August 2011

surrounded by gardens that will be open for public use also), it became apparent there was a need for somewhere for coffee, lunch and so on. What started life as a small “souk” adjoining the car park quickly evolved into a significant retail and hospitality development, reflecting the demand and enthusiasm of interested tenants and operators. Since that time it has evolved into a retail environment that is self supporting in its own right but forms an integral and important aspect of The Royal Opera House complex as a whole. What is uniquely different about The Opera Mall is that there is quite a focus on “social gathering” rather than just retailing. There will be some exciting names in cafes/ bistros, restaurants, galleries and general points of “people gathering” supporting the actual shop units. The Opera Mall is conceived as somewhere to not just shop, but to relax, unwind, socialize and generally catch your breath. It is people that make a shopping mall, not just the retail names and we hope that the Opera Mall becomes an important venues for Muscat’s population who desperately lack a space of this sort.

Can you briefly talk about the architects behind the project? What has been their major role in this project? The architects for the Mall itself are SSH International, a very well respected group headquartered in Kuwait. They are specialised in designing retail projects and are responsible for such successful developments as Marina World Complex and a host of other iconic developments in the retail, commercial and residential sectors. The interior design of the mall is being undertaken by Quad Design who are famous for their ability to integrate architectural characteristics in buildings that are contemporary and suit modern lifestyle requirements. Quad Design has an in depth understanding of traditional Islamic architecture, interior design and detailing and a longstanding experience in interpreting these principles in a modern context. Their recent projects include Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque complex, The Muscat gateway and Museum, Hisn A’Shumookh to name a few. Where are all the raw materials being sourced from? As many of the finishing’s as possible are being sourced locally. Naturally, Omani marble and limestone is being used as the country has some of the finest in class of this material. All the steel, hand etched glass paneling, bronze and hard surfaces are sourced and fabricated locally with the exception of the granite, whose special quality can only be obtained from India. The timber throughout is best quality imported Oak from USA but all fabrication is being undertaken here in Oman. Is the design a result of an inspiration? If yes, please elaborate. Architects have said that as a rule of thumb, architecture is 5% inspiration and 95% perspiration! The inspiration for The Opera Mall is that its presence should not detract the magnificence of The Royal opera House but seamlessly compliment it. The linear flow of the development allows a natural progression for people to walk from the car park, through the air conditioned comfort of the mall into the Opera House itself. There is a covered walkway which links the two buildings which will house handicraft and antique style shops, lending a Souk style ambience to the area. For the cooler winter months there is a magnificent marble Maidan in front of the Mall which will play host to outdoor performing activities and perhaps themed craft markets at weekends. Therefore the inspiration has come from a clear understanding that this is a social gathering destination, not just a shopping mall.

When will the official opening be of the Opera Mall? The mall will open in late December this year. It will hopefully be fully operational and all tenants open early in 2012. How do you finalise the design element? How many people are working on site at present? The interior design of the shop and restaurant units is up to the ingoing tenants. There are some strict design controls in place to ensure the mall has a consistently high quality appearance and feel. A variety of styles will be encouraged for all shops and restaurants. Work will begin on the fitting out after summer with the aim for at least 80% of the shops and restaurants to be open by year end and the remainder shortly thereafter. What are your other future projects? A summer holiday!

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Whilst the entity is still relatively new in Oman, Savills is consistently voted the best performing real estate Company in the UK and is the 4th largest property company in the world

”

August 2011

Take pride in your possession!

The Porsche Club Oman has something to offer all its members whether their interests lie in competition, performance & excellence in cars, socializing or simply enjoying the club's magazines & website. Members can enjoy unlimited beneďŹ ts that are in store for them! Join the crĂ¨me of the club to be part of a celebration of a different kind!

www.porschecluboman.com

Automobilia

Auto Luxe w First Look w Drive August August2011 2011

PLATINUM CLUB

AUTOLUXE

Epitomising Aston Martin The One-77 from Aston Martin embodies everything that the luxury car manufacturer stands for. A report on the new sports car thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revving up the torque in automotive world 62

August 2011

he One-77 is Aston Martin’s definitive sports car, one that epitomises everything Aston Martin from technology, the hand-craftsmanship of the hand rolled aluminium panels to the attention to detail. A culmination of all the marque’s know-how, the One-77 delivers effortless beauty guaranteed to stir the senses with performance potential eclipsing any previous Aston Martin. For Aston Martin’s Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, revealing the One-77’s secrets is a proud moment: “Right from the very beginning of the project the vision for One77 was very simple: It had to combine high-technology with hand-built craftsmanship, and demonstrate the unique capabilities and passion of our designers, engineers and technical partners. “Quite simply it had to be the ultimate expression of Aston Martin. As you can now see, we have achieved that goal in magnificent style.” Chris Porritt, One-77 Programme Manager continued: “We wanted to create something that wows you as much when you see what’s under the skin as the exterior styling itself. We started by identifying the most technologically exciting front-engined, rearwheel drive cars in the world: those from the DTM race series. We then applied the principles and technology that feature heavily in their design and translated it to a road car application.” Consequently the One-77’s structural core is a lightweight and immensely rigid carbon fibre monocoque. Conceived and designed at Aston Martin’s Gaydon HQ, the monocoque, or ‘tub’, has been built in partnership with Multimatic (MTC). As world leaders in carbon composite technology, advanced vehicle analysis and dynamic simulation, MTC brings unrivalled specialist capabilities to the exacting challenge of the One-77 programme.

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It’s a mark of the inherent capabilities of Aston Martin’s acclaimed lightweight Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake technology that it has been used as the basis for the One77’s braking system

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August 2011

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A culmination of all the marque’s know-how, the One-77 delivers effortless beauty guaranteed to stir the senses with performance potential eclipsing any previous Aston Martin

Employing the classic formula of double wishbones at each corner, the One-77 features inboard suspension front and rear, with pushrods employed to transfer vertical suspension movements to the horizontally mounted spring/damper units. A practice taken directly from racing car design, the main advantages of inboard suspension are a reduction in unsprung weight and the ability to package the suspension components more effectively. The dampers are fully adjustable and feature advanced Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) technology; a world-first for a road car application. These special valves are state-of-the-art even at the highest levels of motorsport, and use high-precision machined components to enable the shock-absorbing characteristics of the damper to be changed without having to remove them from the car, as is the norm. Underlining the truly bespoke nature of the One77, once delivered to its owner, the car’s suspension characteristics will be precisely set-up by Aston Martin engineers to suit their exact requirements, from settings suitable for the ultimate long-distance GT, to a machine capable of conquering the Nürburgring Nordschleife. While functionality and efficiency are paramount in the design and construction of the One-77’, so too is 64

August 2011

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aesthetic beauty. To this end every single component has been crafted from the finest materials with absolute attention to detail. From the mesmerising weave of the glossy carbon fibre tub and the abstract, sculptural beauty of the dry sump’s oil reservoir, to the unerring precision of the billet machined aluminium suspension mounts, the One-77’s rolling chassis is an automotive masterpiece. Of course the irony is that the vast majority of these exquisite components will be hidden from view in the finished car, yet each and every piece is a work of art in its own right. It’s this extraordinary workmanship and money-no-object commitment to quality that makes the One-77 unique. Naturally, such a spectacular chassis demands – and gets - an equally exceptional drivetrain. It comes in the form of an immensely potent 7.3-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine. Thanks to the adoption of a dry-sump oil system the engine is mounted 100mm lower than in any previous V12-engined Aston Martin road car, which helps keep the One-77’s centre-of-gravity as low as possible. To further aid agility and endow the One-77 with progressive handling and stable, predictable on-limit behaviour, the engine is also mounted 257mm aft relative to the front

wheel centreline. In so doing the front-mid-engined layout shared by all of Aston Martin’s current road car range has been taken to a new level. The One-77’s magnificent power unit is an extreme evolution of the 6.0-litre V12 engines fitted to the DBS, DB9 and new V12 Vantage models. Like the collaboration with MTC for the build of the chassis, Aston Martin has chosen a world-leading partner with which to develop the motor: legendary engine builders, Cosworth. It has proved to be the perfect collaboration, as Chris Porritt explains. “Our brief to the engine team was for them to take the 6.0-litre V12 as far as it could go, both in terms of output and weight reduction. The targets were a power output of no less than 700bhp with a 10 per cent reduction in engine mass. Incredibly, the Aston Martin and Cosworth engineers achieved a mass reduction of some 25 per cent, and although we’ve yet to complete the final engine calibration work, I’m confident we’ll see in excess of 700bhp. It’s an awesome accomplishment, but one that’s typical of the One-77 project, for it has consistently brought out the very best in everyone involved.” Wearing Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres (255/35 ZR20 front, 335/30 ZR20 rear) developed specifically for the One-77, all 700+bhp is transmitted to the road through the rear wheels via a new six-speed gearbox. Controlled via column-mounted paddles behind the steering wheel, this robotised sequential manual is a new generation of Aston Martin’s familiar transmission. Though it is

made specifically for the One-77 and features specially strengthened internals to cope with the tremendous power and torque, the lessons learned in its development will ultimately find their way into the company’s series production models. It’s a mark of the inherent capabilities of Aston Martin’s acclaimed lightweight Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake technology that it has been used as the basis for the One-77’s braking system. The internals of the calipers have been re-engineered to transmit less heat from the brake pads into the brake fluid, while the discs themselves have been developed to ensure the maximum possible contact area between the face of the disc and the brake pads for improved stopping power. Due to the One-77’s increased performance, special attention has also been paid to brake cooling, as the brakes have less time to cool between bursts of acceleration. With a projected weight of 1,500kg the One77 will occupy the very highest echelons of road car performance. Top speed is confidently predicted to be in excess of 200mph, with a 0-60mph time in approximately 3.5sec. Perhaps more importantly, thanks to the purity of a front-engined, rear-drive layout, the responsiveness and immense tractability of a naturally aspirated V12 and the low mass, high-rigidity properties of a carbon fibre chassis, the One-77 promises a driving experience of unrivalled intensity and excitement while representing the world’s most desirable automotive art form.

August August2011 2011

AUTOMOBILIA

FIRST LOOK

Comeback of

The new 2011 Dodge Charger receives a number of significant upgrades, including freshened styling, higher-quality interior materials, an all-new and more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine, a retuned suspension, electric-assist power steering, more standard features and a new electronic interface.

August 2011

hey say some things get better with age. The 2011 Dodge Charger is a good example. Now Dodge designers and engineers have taken what was a passable family car and made it significantly better by addressing a number of the outgoing model’s shortcomings One of the most significant of these changes is the introduction of an all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that takes the place of the outgoing model’s 2.7-liter and 3.5-liter V6s. With 292 horsepower on tap -- an increase of 114 hp and 42 hp respectively over the previous V6 engines -- this new powertrain becomes a fine alternative to the Charger R/T’s carryover 5.7-liter V8. The Charger’s interior has also received a makeover, with handsome styling and soft-touch materials replacing the bland look and hard plastics that gave the previous

the Charger

cabin a low-budget feel. The list of standard features and options has been substantially upgraded as well, and now includes the latest high-tech bells and whistles, including the Sirius Travel Link service that accesses info from local gas prices to live weather radar images. Equally nifty is the available Cross Traffic Alert system that makes backing out of a blind parking space much less stressful. The most noticeable change regards the Charger’s new exterior styling. This new version sports a more aggressivelooking front end, prominent scallops on the hood and side panels, along with a new taillight treatment that features 164 bright LEDs arranged in a distinctive pattern. All these improvements are particularly well timed, helping the 2011 Dodge Charger become a prime choice in the full-size sedan segment.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Dodge Charger is a large sedan that’s offered in two basic trim levels: SE and R/T. Entry-level SE models are rear-wheel-drive only, while the R/T can be had with a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive. SE base models are reasonably well-equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, airconditioning, cloth upholstery, a power driver seat, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, cruise control, full power accessories, a trip computer, keyless ignition/ entry, remote engine start and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, an iPod interface, an auxiliary audio jack and a 4.3-inch touchscreen interface. The R/T model comes with a V8 engine, a performancetuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch on AWD models), xenon headlights, foglights and a rear spoiler (RWD models only). Inside there’s automatic dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a poweradjustable front passenger seat, a leather-wrapped

August 2011

steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and a premium Alpine sound system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, voice control and satellite radio. The options list is long and arranged into more than a dozen packages and equipment groups that bundle together just about every comfort and convenience feature you might possibly want. Highlights include 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels, a Super Track Pack that gets you high-performance brakes, suspension components and tires, a rear back-up camera, rear park assist and a sunroof. Inside, available options include leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled cupholders and power-adjustable pedals. Other options include adaptive cruise control with front collision warning, a blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert, a Garmin-sourced navigation system with Sirius Travel Link service, and a nine-speaker Alpine surround-sound audio system. The good news with this option package arrangement is that it’s possible to load an SE base model up with virtually all the goodies offered on the top-of-the-line R/T. The bad news, of course, is that you may end up paying for optional features you don’t want in order to get the ones you do. Powertrains and Performance The 2011 Dodge Charger’s powertrain choices have been greatly simplified. SE models come with an all-

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new 3.6-liter V6 that puts out 292 hp and 260 poundfeet of torque. R/T versions get a 5.7-liter V8 that puts out 370 hp and 395 lb-ft. Both engines are backed by a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift feature that sends power to the rear wheels. All-wheel drive is offered for the V8-powered R/T. Safety Standard safety features for the Charger include electronic stability/traction control, antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for front seat passengers, a driver-side knee airbag, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. There are also a number of safety-related options available, including adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning and a blind-zone alert system. New rear cross-path detection sensors also sound a warning tone when vehicles or pedestrians are approaching while you’re backing out of a parking space. Interior Design and Special Features The designers at Dodge have given the Charger’s interior a classier feel by replacing many hard plastic surfaces with softer-touch materials. The look has also been stylishly updated, and the controls -- including those for the optional Garmin-sourced navigation system --

The Charger’s interior has also received a makeover, with handsome styling and soft-touch materials replacing the bland look and hard plastics that gave the previous cabin a low-budget feel

August 2011

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are still logically arranged and simple to operate. The addition of details like standard keyless ignition/entry and the huge 8.4-inch dash-mounted touchscreen also help reinforce the up-to-the-minute design. What hasn’t changed is the car’s basic layout, which is a good thing as it creates a spacious cabin with a backseat that offers adult-size legroom. Unfortunately, the Charger ’s sloping roof line reduces rear seat headroom, though it shouldn’t be much of a problem for sub-6-foot passengers. At 15.4 cubic feet, the trunk is on the small side for a large sedan. That said, 60/40-split-folding rear seatbacks are standard for those times when you need more room.

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The 2011 Dodge Charger is a large sedan that’s offered in two basic trim levels: SE and R/T. Entry-level SE models are rear-wheel-drive only, while the R/T can be had with a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive

Driving Impressions It should come as no surprise that the 2011 Dodge Charger R/T is great fun to drive thanks to its 5.7-liter V8. This big V8 gives the R/T impressive acceleration for such a big car. What’s unexpected, however, is that the new 3.6-liter V6 engine under the hood of the SE has enough guts to make it a fine alternative. Then again, the fact that the V6 is expected to offer only a slight improvement in fuel economy compared to the big V8 may ultimately make the point moot for all but the most budget-conscious buyers. The other pleasant surprise is that the Charger’s recalibrated suspension manages to deliver a good balance between ride comfort and entertaining handling. While the car’s steering feel leaves something to be desired, the fact that hard-core enthusiasts can upgrade to stouter brakes, suspension components and rear-axle ratios arguably makes the Charger the most fun-to-drive family car you can buy.

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August 2011

AUTOMOBILLIA

DRIVE

The Power of

The Audi R8 Spyder is no child’s play. Kitted with a pulsating V10 engine, the luxury sports car is just about every man’s dream machine. Anne Kurian takes the beauty for a spin

he Audi R8 Spyder reinforces the love for speed. One of most iconic cars from the German automaker, the Audi R8 Spyder is, at the risk of making it sound like a cliché, what could be referred to as a dream sports vehicle. The Audi R8 Spyder is fitted with the 5.2-litre V10 engine that infuses power into the classy sports car. The Spyder shares the engine with the Lambhorgini Gallardo. A beautifully designed vehicle, the Audi R8 Spyder

August 2011

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The Audi R8 Spyder is fitted with the 5.2-litre V10 engine that infuses power into the classy sports car

sits low with a slightly raised rear that gives the car a supercharged look. Pull back the hood and the mean machine looks stunning – giving off the impression of being a vehicle that is seriously sporty and designed to scorch the tarmac. Taking the roof off has only added to the thrilling experience of being inside the Audi R8 Spyder. But the hood is no ordinary canvas but features underneath a lightweight aluminum and magnesium frame, which uses an electrohydraulic mechanism to lower and

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raise it. A question often raised in such vehicles are if they look just as great with the hood up. The roof does not spoil the design of the Audi R8 Spyder and only accentuates the vehicle’s profile. The soft hood folds back in 19 seconds at speeds of up to 30 odd mph. A retractable glass screen behind the driver and passenger’s seats keeps off the wind and honestly, when you are behind the wheel of the R8 Spyder the last thing to bother is the wind.

August 2011

Location courtesy: Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club

The R8 Spyder does remarkably well in all the areas that test its functionality – acceleration, grip and maneuverability. Even bumps are handled with ease that you might not expect from a car of its make. Inside the R8 Spyder, it’s clean and simple with ample legroom. The seats are well-designed and comfortable; adding to the sheer pleasure of driving a car of its stature. The dashboard is simple and ergonomically designed – nothing fancy in there but simple placement of controls that does not take away from the driving experience. The interiors boast of full leather trim, navigation and a fantastic Bang & Olufsen stereo system; another of the car’s highlight is the LED headlamps. Cargo space is not much in the R8 Spyder – the its nose-mounted trunk is only 100 litres in capacity, not much that can be lugged around. Though the Audi is hardly a light ride, it weighs just 1, 720 kgs even with the extensive use of carbon fibre, aluminum and magnesium alloys, not to forget the chassis reinforcements and soft-top mechanism. One of the most exciting aspects of the automobile is the noise it makes – pulsating and exhilarating. Almost like an assault on the senses, the engine whirring as the car is accelerated and powered is simply fabulous. We couldn’t help show off and had quite a lot of fun letting the engine 72

August 2011

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Pull back the hood and the mean machine looks stunning – giving off the impression of being a vehicle that is seriously sporty and designed to scorch the tarmac

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howl on the road. The Spyder, not surprisingly, delivers more punch than the R8. Road handling is excellent and reliable. The steering responds well at all speeds and is weighted just right to provide the perfect drive experience. Corners and swift turns are handled with immaculate precision; it’s easy to get carried away behind the R8 Spyder. Equipped with a mid-mounted engine, a low centre of

AT A GLANCE Model : Engine : Transmission : Max power : Max torque : Top speed : 0-100kph :

Audi R8 Spyder 5.2-litre V10 Six-speed R-tronic AWD 518bhp @ 8,000rpm 530Nm @ 6,500rpm 312kph 4.1sec

gravity and not too disparate rear-biased weight distribution (43 per cent front, 57 per cent rear) the R8 Spyder makes you love the road. Add to that the Audiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous quattro all-wheel drive and you have a winner here. This creation from Audi is remarkable both in terms of aesthetics and motoring. The Audi Spyder R8 cuts a fine balance between elegance and outstanding performance.

August 2011

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Art & Design

Impressions August August2011 2011

ART & DECOR

IMPRESSIONS

Caravaggio in Canada Famed Italian master Caravaggio is among the pioneers of art of olden days. Patricia Groves takes us through his works and life as she visits an exhibition of the renowned artist’s works showcased at the National Gallery of Canada

August 2011

n a towering arcade of glass, a walkway ascends to a spacious foyer filled with light from a triple diamond dome. This is the entrance to the National Gallery of Canada. Outside, a wide river slips silently past the Parliament buildings which reign over the scene in Gothic splendour. A prominent landmark in Ottawa, the nation’s capital, the Gallery is a contemporary reflection of the grand, steepled silhouette of Canada’s Parliament buildings, those stately sentinels of stone that harbour the might of history. This majestic scene is a fitting backdrop for one of the finest exhibitions ever to come to North America: Caravaggio and his Followers in Rome.

The walls of the first room in the exhibition, painted a warm cloudy grey, are sumptuously dressed in Caravaggio’s colours. Golden frames on subdued walls signal the richness of the treasures they hold – a dozen Caravaggios amid more than forty works from artists influenced by the bold and revolutionary naturalism with which, at the dawn of the seventeenth century, this artist ushered in the Baroque era. It has been posited that, without the early example of Caravaggio, the works of three premier artists of the mature Baroque period - Velasquez, Rembrandt and Vermeer - would not have been as great. Moreover, Rubens explicitly acknowledged his artistic debt to Caravaggio. While Caravaggio’s paintings were a stunning success and he commanded high commissions, the painter lived his life with reckless abandon. The appeal of Michelangelo Merisi de Caravaggio today lies not only in his sublime art, but also in the compelling tragedy of his life. This artist’s prodigious creativity, his stupendous artistic achievements, redeem a life otherwise characterised by an extreme tendency to self-destruct. Whether in Rome, Naples, Malta or Sicily, Caravaggio the artist triumphed, but the man could not

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He participated in its gritty violence with proud insolence. The ignominy of the anti-hero was a fate that Caravaggio embraced

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August August2011 2011

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Caravaggio used luminous juxtapositions to create soaring contrasts through poetic use of light. A master of narrative painting, he gave his scenes psychology, making them highly expressive and utterly human

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resist the lure of the ugly underside of life. He participated in its gritty violence with proud insolence. The ignominy of the anti-hero was a fate that Caravaggio embraced. He murdered a man; and, unrepentant, fled to Malta where he secured a knighthood that, in part, countered the notoriety of the deed. But it was not long before Caravaggio flagrantly insulted a fellow knight and had again to flee. The greatness of his art helped Caravaggio triumph over the evil of his enemies and to mitigate the 78

August 2011

wrong side of his soul. Eventually the artist was pardoned, but on his return by ship to Rome with a stash of paintings onboard, he was detained at a stop en route. Apparently it was only a case of mistaken identity. By the time Caravaggio was released, the ship had left port. Desperate to retrieve his paintings, the artist tried to catch up with the ship by conveyance over land; but, along the way, in the torrid heat of summer, he fell ill and died of fever. The man was a mere thirty-nine years old. Fortunately most of these paintings were recovered. Nevertheless, along with his many altar works and church murals, only seventy of Caravaggio’s paintings survived into modern times. The brilliance of his work, its scarcity, and the tragic course of the artist’s life are a powerfully compelling package. Caravaggio can be marketed as ‘The Bad Boy of the Baroque’ - a potent brand for modern sensibility. Violence was certainly not absent in the art of Caravaggio’s era, and this painter was no exception. In a particularly graphic work, Caravaggio wrote his name in the red blood of John the Baptist which spilled into the foreground as the Saint’s head was being severed.

Caravaggio did not lead a conventional life. He bought fine clothes and wore them to rags. He ate off his paintings in progress, perversely using them as a sort of tablecloth. Although he was at times the most highly paid artist in Rome, Caravaggio possessed virtually nothing but his art. What was it about Caravaggioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art that dazzled patrons, profoundly influenced other artists and changed the course of history in Western art? Caravaggio painted from life using ordinary people as models and did not idealise them. This gave his pictures a startling realism never seen before. Caravaggio broke ground and invented a new way of seeing by employing chiaroscuro, the treatment of light and dark, in deep and dramatic ways. In contradistinction to the practice of his contemporaries, Caravaggio did not apply colour simply to tone a painting, but to structure the composition. His perspectives were highly original with three-dimensional effects, back views, and the treatment of background as open space. Caravaggio used luminous juxtapositions to create soaring contrasts through poetic use of light. A master of narrative painting, he gave his scenes psychology,

making them highly expressive and utterly human. The overall power of the Caravaggio exhibition at Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Gallery lies in the vast treasury of works assembled and in the cumulative effect of experiencing the gorgeousness of one painting after another, until the last room is reached - and the cup is full. It is then that the final painting is seen in an alcove all its own. There, St John the Baptist makes a solitary appearance in hallowed brown and age-old beige, as if weathered by the centuries. Ordinarily, to see a significant part of the oeuvre of Caravaggio, one must travel at least to Rome, Florence, Paris, London, New York and Madrid. Apart from the current Ottawa exhibition, the last time these twelve paintings would have been together was in Italy in the early seventeenth century. A sensation in his time, Caravaggio was afterwards relatively neglected until the twentieth century when he was re-discovered and recognised as one of the great masters of all time in the increasingly educated sensibility of audiences worldwide. His future seems assured.

August August2011 2011

Gourmet & Hospitality

Culinaire August August2011 2011

gourmet & Hospitality

Culinaire

Iftar delights

Top hotels in Muscat have put together various impressive Iftar treats for the Holy month of Ramadan. Crème de la Crème takes you through some of the choicest offerings on the menu…

August 2011

Grand Hyatt Muscat The Grand Hyatt Muscat has some great traditional Iftar promotions during Ramadan. Mokha Café features a selection of time-honored favourites, prepared by Chef Marin Leuthard and his brigade that include Harris, Lamb Ouzi, Omani Halwa, Um Ali and a selection of fresh breads, fresh juices and sweets. The buffet is priced at R.O.17.000++ per person. The Sirj Tea Lounge offers a cosy where live Oud music is played in the lobbyarea and on offer here is an impressive buffet comprising of Mezzeh and Arabic Sweets that will be available from sunset until 12:30 am. The hotel also offers corporate packages for Iftar gatherings at the Afrah Ballroom that can accommodate groups ranging from fifty to five-hundred. Tailor-made catering packages are also on offer at the hotel. Prices range from OR 17.00++ to 20.5++ per person. Contact: 24641234

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa With an array of options to choose from, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa offers some truly memorable settings for family and friends to get together during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Al Tanoor in Al Bandar offers a variety of traditional Middle Eastern specialities. The lavish spread showcases hot and cold mezzeh, salads, mixed grills, Omani specials and classic desserts complemented by Ramadan beverages such as sahlab, kamar al din, karkadeh (hibiscus tea) and jelab which is priced at OMR 15.500. At the exquisite restaurant, Shahrazad in Al Husn, a special Ramadan set menu brings about a new approach to Iftar. The impressive set menu comprises premium dates, starters, meat and fish tajine, cous cous and petit fours and is priced at OMR 18.000. Sohour can be enjoyed at Al Mazaar Souk, an outdoor courtyard designed with canopies and cooled by air conditioning. Traditional Ramadan delicacies, hot and cold refreshments and shisha are the highlights here which can be enjoyed while listening to live Arabic entertainment. The hotel also offers guests a chance to win in the weekly raffle draw when you spend OMR 12.000 or more. Raffle prizes include accommodation in Shangri-La hotels in Asia and the Middle East as well as dinner and spa treatments in the resort and the grand prize comprising of a Peugeot 207. Private Iftar gatherings are also organised by Barr Al Jissah at the ballroom or any of their 0 banquet rooms. The hotel provides packages for corporate and family Iftar get together. (All prices are in Omani Riyal and subject to 9% government tax and 8% service charge.) Contact: 2477 6243 or 2477 6247 City Seasons Hotel Muscat City Seasons Hotel Muscat offers an Iftar buffet that will start from Sunset and go on until 10pm each day of Ramadan, where guests can choose from an array of sumptuous and traditional cuisines at only OMR 12, net per person. For Sohour, which will start from 3am and go on until Sunrise, the hotel will have a set menu with even more culinary delights, which will be offered to guests, at only OMR 7 net per person. Both Iftar and Sohour will be served in ‘Seasons’ restaurant, situated on the Mezzanine floor of the hotel. Contact: 24394800

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The Sirj Tea Lounge offers a cosy where live Oud music is played in the lobbyarea and on offer here is an impressive buffet comprising of Mezzeh and Arabic Sweets that will be available from sunset until 12:30 am

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Radisson Blu Radisson Blu has an interesting variety of delectable offerings this Ramadan. Al Tajin Steak & Grill has a great package for RO 19.500 (net) that features succulent grilled fare and is open exclusively for private and group bookings. The Olivos Restaurant & Terrace has a traditional Iftar buffet at sundown for RO 16.000 (net). The lobby café, Grind Floor will cater to guests after sunset. Contact: 24487777

August August2011 2011

Price Per Person OMR 795/Included: • Flight by Thai Airways or Oman Air from Muscat to Bangkok in Economy Class • Airways • All taxes and fuel surcharges • All transfers and excursions as • English speaking Guide • Entrance Fees for all sights and Parks • twin-sharing • Meals: Daily Breakfast, 3 Lunches and 1 Dinner • VAT & service charge Not included: expenses, Travel Insurances.

IN YO U R IT

E R A RY

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok by Thai Airways or Oman Air. Transfer and Overnight at Amari Residence Hotel. Day 2: Thonburi Klong tour with Grand Palace and The Emerald Buddha. Lunch at o vernight at Amari r esidence Hotel. Day 3: Full Day excursion to Damnoen s picturesque r elephants at work. o vernight at Amari r esidence Hotel. c hiang Mai. Transfer to Day 4: Hotel, Evening Kantoke Dinner. Overnight at Dusit D2 Hotel. Day 5: Morning visit of Elephant Camp and Queen Sirikit Botanical garden. Lunch o vernight at Dusit D2 Hotel. Day 6: samui island. Transfer and overnight at Dara Samui Beach Resort and Spa. Day 7: Full day at leisure– enjoy the wonderful beaches. Overnight at Dara Samui Beach Resort and Spa. Day 8: and/or Oman Air.

THAILAND

“LAND OF SMILES” 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS not because there is precious metal buried the central plains, white sandy beaches or the wildlife, and spectacular islands. Along with a includes delectable Thai food and massage, Thailand features a modern capital city, and friendly people who epitomize

Price Per Person OMR 445/-

SRI LANKA

EXOTIC AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCE 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS When the noted writer Sir Arthur C Clarke made his home in Sri Lanka in 1956, he claimed the island jewel of the Indian Ocean was the best place in the world from which to view the

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean. The island is laden with lush tropical forests, white beaches and diverse landscapes with rich biodiversity. The country lays claim to a long and colorful history of over three thousand years, having one of the longest documented histories in

IN YO U R IT

E R A RY

Day 1: Flight from Muscat via Dubai to Colombo with Emirates Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Overnight at Amaya Lake. Day 2: sigiriya rock fortress. Overnight at Amaya Lake Day 3: Visit a spice garden in Matale and witness a Cookery garden. i cultural show. Overnight at Amaya Hills. Day 4: o n the way to n uwara e factory. In the evening city tour of Nuwara Eliya the most popular hill resort of Sri Lanka. Overnight at Tea Factory Hotel. Day 5: Return to Colombo. On the way visit Kitulgala. The Kelani r iver – broadest river of s o scar winning movie “Bridge on the River Kwai”. City tour of Colombo. Overnight at Colombo Hilton. Day 6: Transfer to the airport, Departure by Emirates Airlines via Dubai to Muscat.

Included: • Flight by Emirates Airlines from Muscat to Colombo in Economy Class • All taxes and fuel surcharges • • Entrance fees to Elephant Orphanage, Sigiriya, Cultural Show, Kandy Temple and Botanical garden • • hotels or similar standard • VAT & service charge Not included:

BEACH EXTENSION 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS NEGOMBO 5* Hotel – The Beach at OMR 175/5* Hotel – Jetwing Blue at OMR 145/BERUWELA 4* Hotel – The Palms at OMR 75/4* Hotel – Bentota Beach at OMR 145/All Beach packages include return transfer to airport as well as daily breakfast at the chosen hotel, VAT.

Division of: Gulf Sindbad Travel & Tourism LLC CALL: +968 2439 5000, Mobile: +968 9709 1992 E-mail: info@sindbad-trails.com

Travel & Lifestyle

Destination w Lounge w Advertorial August August2011 2011

Destination

The Beverly Hills of Asia

Koh Samui is exotic, fascinating and untouched by mass tourism. This beautiful locale in thailand is one of those few destinations where you can enjoy unmatched beauty and exclusivity says Roma K

August 2011

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Pure extravagance, scenic beauty, food fit for royalty and virgin shores make Koh Samui the ultimate holiday choice

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h enever we want a break or plan a vacation, most of us tend to choose destinations that our friends have been to or places that tour operators recommend. It’s not often that a holiday is planned to the Fiji Islands, Bahamas, Kulu-Manali or Antartic. Yet the excitement of visiting a new destination that has not had too many visitors from Arabia can often surpass the fun of going to a place that comes highly recommended. One such destination is Koh Samui, Thailand’s third largest island that guarantees visitors a luxurious break of sheer indulgence. Pure extravagance, scenic beauty, food fit for royalty and virgin shores make Koh Samui the ultimate holiday choice. I was truly glad for not having taken the oft-beaten path when it came to vacation spots It wouldn’t be incorrect to refer to Samui (as the locals call it there) as the Beverly Hills of Asia. Why, there is also a tourist spot known as Samui Beverly Hills, which is as stylish and striking as the original. Another similarity is that it is a hot favourite spot for many celebrities who know they can be as anonymous as they want in Samui. The best part of Samui lies in the fact that it is yet to be touched by mass tourism. Probably this could be one of the reasons (among many others equally worthy) that led David Beckham to build one of his holiday homes on Samui. His neighbour is none other than tennis star Sven Goran Eriksson. Wayne Rooney has followed in the footsteps of Beckham and bought land to build a home in Samui too! August August2011 2011

Samui to me was a dream vacation that distressed me completely. Its white sandy beaches, lush tropical foliage and clear blue waters, makes it the perfect place for couples, families or bachelors. The island is gifted with an incredible rich variety of beaches, bays, capes and coves and is surely becoming hot spot of South East Asia. Slowly but steadily it is turning into a destination for the Rich & Famous. The two most popular beaches of Koh Samui are Lamai and Chaweng. This is where you can experience Koh Samui in its complete glory – this includes the best nightlife, shopping, restaurants, spas, resorts and water sports activities. The private beaches that boast of exclusive resorts and spas, which are hideouts of celebrities, include Bophut, Maenam, Choeng Mon and Thong Krut. Known to all, Samui has a wide selection of spas that offer not just exquisite treatments but experiences that are truly out of this world. Pretty much every major hotel in Koh Samui has a spa and massage facilities available but it is better to look outside the hotel. My pick at Samui is the Tamarind Retreat and Spa, a favourite of many spa lovers that is built into the hills near Lamai. It’s the same spa where Pierce Brosnan was seen romancing Halle Berry in Tomorrow Never Dies. With a wide range of massages and treatments available, you are almost guaranteed to leave here relaxed and completely refreshed. It is unquestionably among the best spas in Samui. Another spa that I strongly recommend is the Kirikayan

August 2011

Spa and Resort. Being the only cultural spa of Thailand, the spa gets its inspiration from the Sukko kingdom that revived Thai wellness culture adapting it to modern needs. All the therapies at the spa are based on traditional Thai and Ayurveda and extremely classic in nature. The ambience and the setting is top notch, taking you into a different world. The Santiburi Resort in Koh Samui is also another spa I visited and revered as one of the finest the spas. Thailand’s finest aromatic herbs and purest essential oils are used in the treatments at this spa. The facial and body scrubs are one of its kind and must not be missed even if you do not stay over at the resort. The Rocky Resort was my abode during my holiday at Samui. One of the most beautiful resorts with a private beach and a spa that overlooks the sea, it is hard not to gasp at the beauty that surrounds you. Undoubtedly one of the best properties in Koh Samui, the rooms are great and so is the food. Another asset to this property is that it is situated right in the centre of Samui giving you the best of both worlds: Luxury and Fun. While at Koh Samui, along with all the luxury and pampering activities one must get a taste of the local action as well, so going in for a session of Thai boxing is something I would truly recommend, it mind not be as grand as a Spanish bull fight, but it surely has its authenticity and natural Thai flavour, so don’t miss it.

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Known to all, Samui has a wide selection of spas that offer not just exquisite treatments but experiences that are truly out of this world

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Besides that water sports is something one must try at Koh Samui especially deep sea walking and deep seadiving. If you like get ‘touristy’ on your holidays, then make sure you don’t waste your time getting a guide and one of those ‘koh samui tours’ just get your self a hotel cab, a bike or a gipsy on hire and go on with a map to see the Butter fly garden, the Na Muang Water fall and the Big Buddha ( or Wat Phra Yai as it is more famously known, it is more than 12 meter tall Buddha statue and located on a small island connected with a bridge main land). Its an architectural marvel and a must see.. Night life at Koh Samui is exhilarating. Lamai and Cheweng have umpteen nightclubs and discotheques; my favourites are Green Mango at Chaweng Bach Road and Super Sub on Lamai beach. There are also smaller pubs and bars all over the island, plus each resort has its own luxury bar by the sea. You surely cannot leave Samui without partying at least one night! Shopping in Samui is hard to be missed. Chaweng is the best area for shopping and you can pick up everything from art to sculptures and Buddhist icons to embellished shawls and fashion accessories. Food in Koh Samui is excellent. From Thai, Italian, Continental, Asian, Mediterranean to Japanese, it’s a paradise for connoisseurs. All in all Samui is your one stop holiday haven. So don’t be late, pack your bags and get going on the majestic and magnificent roller coaster of a holiday! August August2011 2011

Travel & Lifestyle

Lounge

The Moor’s Last Sigh 

Salman Rushdie

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Rushdie gives his linguistic virtuosity full play: his prose, as always, is energetic, jaunty and lyrical. A series of indelible portraits evokes the greedy da Gama clan, who personify many of India’s selfdestructive traits

alman Rushdie has created a biting parable of modern India again. In this spirited story related at a rapid pace, crammed with melodrama and literary allusions, Rushdie has sought to produce a story filled with wordplay and ripe with humour. The first person narrator of this cynical yet mischievous book is Moraes Zogoiby, aka “Moor” who has a disorder that causes him to age at twice the normal speed. Moor is the last surviving member of a crazy clan of wealthy South Indian spice merchants and he speaks about their insane, violent domestic saga, which spans four generations. It centers on his beautiful mother, Aurora da Gama, a stubborn, passionate, Christian artist who, at 15, falls in love with the handsome Abraham Zogoiby, a penniless, 35-year-old Jewish employee of her family. They marry and have four children: Ina, Minnie, Mynah and Moor. Betrayal, murder, and mayhem ensue. Familiar about a life spent in banishment from society because Moor ages at twice the rate as normal humans, the eponymous narrator relates the saga of a family whose religious, political and cultural differences replicate the fault lines by which India is driven. Moor tells of the feuds of grandparents and great-grandparents, of the “pepper love” of his parents and the eventual breakdown of their

August 2011

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marriage, and of his own struggles with love and with his darker, more violent side. He speculates on the duality of all things, the conflicting impulses of human nature and the clash between appearance and reality. Rushdie gives his linguistic virtuosity full play: his prose, as always, is energetic, jaunty and lyrical. A series of indelible portraits evokes the greedy da Gama clan, who personify many of India’s self-destructive traits. In a careful and calculated manner, The Moor’s Last Sigh leaps across four generations of a rich and demented Indian family, weaving an exquisitely-crafted tapestry of murder and suicide, atheism and asceticism, affection and adultery. Rushdie’s satiric, hysterically funny, political family tragedy is a masterpiece which earned him the 1995 Whitbread Price. Salman Rushdie is an Indian-British novelist who has written many books including award winning book Midnight’s Children, The Ground Beneath Her Feet and Fury. He has also published works of non-fiction including, The Jaguar Smile and Imaginary Homelands. He has received many awards for his writing including the European Union’s Aristeion Prize for Literature. In June 2007 he received a knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

State of Wonder 

Ann Patchett

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Patchett’s storytelling is unfailingly compelling and her rapport with her subject matter is stunning

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n fluid and remarkably distinctive prose, Ann Patchett touches into a world of science and adventure, human connection and personal discovery, beautifully painting an emotional and vivid work of literature that solidifies her place as one of today’s master storytellers. The story is centered on the protagonist, Dr. Marina Singh, a research scientist of pharmaceutical company faced with the task of tracking down her former mentor, Dr. Annick Swenson who disappeared from the Amazon while working on a valuable new drug. Marina’s quest to find Dr. Swenson proves to be more than daunting task: not only does no one know where Dr. Swenson is, but the last person who was sent to find her, Anders Eckman, died before he could complete his mission. Plagued by trepidation, Marina embarks on a journey full of peril, bravery and death-defying action into the insect-infested jungle in hopes of seeking answers about her friend’s death, the state of her company’s future, and her own past. When Dr. Swenson is finally found, she appears as notoriously tough and eccentric as ever, dominating her research team and the natives she is studying with the force of an imperial ruler. But while she is as threatening as anything the jungle has to offer, the greatest sacrifices to be made are the ones Dr. Swenson asks of herself, and

will ultimately ask of Marina. Moreover they both share another connection; an overlapping professional past that Dr. Singh has long tried to forget. In finding her former mentor, Dr. Singh must face her own disappointments and regrets, along with the jungle’s unforgiving humidity and insects. What follows is a multi-layered atmospheric tale opening into a penetrating study of personalities, loyalties and ethics. Patchett’s storytelling is unfailingly compelling and her rapport with her subject matter is stunning. In a narrative replete with poison arrows, devouring snakes, and a neighboring tribe of cannibals, State of Wonder is a world unto itself, where unlikely beauty stands beside unimaginable loss. Masterfully constructed with powerful and luminous writing, Ann Patchett’s latest page turner is truly a thing of beauty and mystery much like the Amazon jungle itself. Patchett has written for numerous publications, including The New York Times Magazine, The Washington Post, O, The Oprah Magazine, ELLE, GQ, Gourmet, and Vogue. Her best-selling book Bel Canto was awarded both the Orange Prize for Fiction and PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction. It was placed on several top book lists, including Amazon’s Best Books of 2001.

August August2011 2011

Advertorial

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With Starlight, the Elica brand offer widens with a product which gets out from the kitchen and explores other living spaces. On the other hand, Star’s highly decorative spherical form, is composed of hundreds of tiny glass prisms, making it a sophisticated and fascinating light source that shines out full of personality in even the most ascetic environment. Star is definitely the richest apparel chosen for Evolution - the patented Elica system that integrates mechanical parts, lighting and grease and odour filters into a small steel cylinder. The compactness of the Evolution system doesn’t sacrifice easy maintenance. The filters are simple to remove and wash: the steel grease filters can be popped into the washing machine and the carbon odour filters can be simply washed with water. As a light source, Star ensures maximum safety during cooking even when not working to refresh the air in the kitchen – and when it is working as a hood, the Evolution system guarantees a minimum of noise. Star can be operated using an elegant remote control or, if the remote control is not immediately available, the hood’s touch-sensitive steel rod-switch control has only to be brushed lightly with the fingers to operate all the different functions of the appliance For more information contact: QUALITY FURNITURES LLC Tel.: +(968) 24700935, Fax: +(968) 24700934 Sultanate of Oman

August 2011

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Style & Beauty

Fashion w View August August2011 2011

STYLE & BEAUTY

For the Fashion Conscious

FASHION

The young and enterprising Amal Al Raisi designs boast of an eclectic fashion sense that merges Omani traditional wear with a hint of modernity. Sudipta Dasgupta meets the lovely fashion designer

lth ough a management graduate from the Sultan Qaboos University, Amal Al Raisi has always been passionate about fabrics, clothes and colours from the very beginning. After having worked at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for nearly three years, Raisi felt that she needed to do something more for herself. She started designing outfits which has received a rave response from the fashionistas in Oman today. Al Raisi talks to CrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me about how she managed to pursue her passion and love for designing fabrics and what the future holds for her. Inner faith During my wedding preparation, I was looking for an appropriate dress for my henna ceremony but I was quite

August 2011

disappointed with what was available in the local market. I ended up traveling to different places to get some ideas and designed a dress on my own with a little bit of help from my cousin. I received an amazing response from my family and friends who loved my dress. I think that is what gave me a lot of confidence to take up designing as a profession. I quit my job and started concentrating on designing clothes thereafter.

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The response was overwhelming after the fashion show was over and everybody was trying to get in touch with me to know more about my collection

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An opportunity to showcase It was during the Muscat Festival this year that I got this amazing opportunity to showcase some of my dresses at the international fashion show. It was then that I seriously pursued my passion for designing a set of fabrics for the show. The response was overwhelming after the fashion show was over and everybody was trying to get in touch with me to know more about my collection. It has been really good since then. I am at home doing exactly what I like to do and at the same time I get to spend more time with my family and kids. Materials of sophistication Most of the materials that I use in my dresses are sourced

August 2011

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I don’t compromise on quality, design and detailing on fabric which is time consuming and expensive. But this is the work and style that my customers came back for to my boutiques

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from here in Muscat. But at the same time I also pick up materials from Dubai and India when I am traveling. My style I currently have two separate boutiques, Al Aseel and Dar Al Aseel. Both the boutiques are completely different, Al Aseel houses traditional outfits which has a twist of modernity in it. The outfits are very colorful and vibrant with heavy designs on it. On the other hand Dar Al Aseel is quite opposite and houses very simple and elegant evening dresses which are designed with modern cuts on pastel coloured fabrics. Minimal designs are used to make it look sophisticated and chic. Source of inspiration Honestly speaking there are many designers whose work inspire me, I read books on latest trends, attend fashion shows etc. I love the concept of mix and match and that is what you get to see in my traditional dresses. On the other hand, my evening wear collections are very simple yet it looks very elegant because the fabrics I use are soft and delicate. For these dresses, I concentrate on small details which look very attractive on a simple and plain chiffon fabric. I incorporate a lot of crystal work on my evening dresses. A colorful future I usually have new collections in my boutiques every four months. I don’t want to rush and create too many things at one time. The brand will lose its essence. I will take up projects, shows etc one step at a time. A positive response When I initially started with designing clothes, I had a handful of customers coming to me. But just through word of mouth publicity, I have an increased number of customers walking into my boutiques regularly. I have a very niche clientele who mostly like intricate designs and soft elegant fabrics. I don’t compromise on quality, design and detailing on fabric which is time consuming and

August 2011

Amal Al Raisi

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I usually have new collections in my boutiques every four months. I don’t want to rush and create too many things at one time. The brand will lose its essence. I will take up projects, shows etc one step at a time

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expensive. But this is the work and style that my customers came back for to my boutiques. I normally produce one piece of a particular design. Design intricacy The basic idea, concept and design specifications is what I work on which I then hand over to my workers who stitch the fabric accordingly. Most of my work is done here in Oman at my workshop but if there is a bulk order, I send it outside Oman along with my drawings and sketches.

August 2011

STYLE & BEAUTY

View

Electrifying Dior Dior International Pro Make up Team Artist Emmanuelle Geoffrey shares the colours and trends of the season

lease tell us about Dior’s Summer 2011 launches. This summer starts off with the exhilarating look called “Electric Tropic”. Then we have the 5 Colors Lift, the first eye-lifting and radiance enhancing eye shadows. There will also be the new 3 Colors Smoky – an eye shadow trio inspired by ready-to-wear fashion for a smoky eye design in a flash. And the new Diorskin Forever foundation will be available at the end of summer, fusion wear makeup for a flawless complexion. What are the colours for Summer and Autumn/Winter from Dior this year? This summer there is an audacious play between neon colors and sun-kissed skin, and this winter we will discover that blue is the new black with the “Blue Tie” collection. What are your favourite make up trends for summer and winter? I love the play between the freshness of bare, sun-kissed skin with the vivid neon nail polish. This winter I look forward to a new take on black with the intensity of blues. The must-note tip for this season… Skin is the star this season; wear a light coverage foundation like Diorskin Nude Glow. Three products from Dior that every woman must have… Every Every woman should have an

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exceptional foundation and Capture Totale foundation is the one. Also important is the Diorshow 360 mascara – it’s like having a professional makeup artist at your fingertips! And last but not least, Addict lipstick in one of the 44 vibrant shades. How important is skincare in make-up? Skincare is very important; you must have a clean canvas to work on. Skin that is taken care of daily with the appropriate skincare will be more beautiful in general and with makeup. And don’t forget, foundation always wears more beautifully on properly hydrated skin. Are the colours or shades preferred by women living in Arabia taken into consideration when creating new makeup collections? When creating makeup colors, Dior takes into consideration all women and always presents two sets of colors in the new collections, one of them being more intense and dramatic, which is appreciated by women in this region. (Special thanks to Capital Store LLC for facilitating the interview.)

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Gadgets w Gallery w Simply Musts August August2011 2011

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GADGETS

Nokia N9

LG LG combines style and substance in its latest smartphone. The LG Optimus Black offers beauty, performance and mobility in one smart package. The LG Optimus Black comes equipped with what the company claims to be the world’s brightest display at 700-nits¹ greatly enhancing visibility under direct sunlight and providing higher levels of true blacks and whites. The highly efficient NOVA display also allows the LG Optimus Black’s large 4-inch screen to consume up to 50% less power indoors, compared to competitors’ 3.5 inch LCD displays. Overall, the NOVA display’s brightness and natural colors provide users with an enhanced experience when browsing the web, writing

Phonetastic! Next generation mobile phones are the rage and three four players – LG, Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson – of the industry offer the cream of the range

Samsung Galaxy S II

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emails and reading documents. The phone features an extremely slim profile for a smartphone, measured in only 6mm at the thinnest point and 9.2mm at the thickest point. Weighing in feather-like 109g, it’s so light that you might forget you’re holding anything at all. The sleek and flawless design is completed with the invisible receiver and speaker hidden for an unbelievably smooth finish. NOKIA Nokia N9, the latest smartphone from the leading mobile phone manufacturer, introduces an innovative new design where the home key is replaced by a simple gesture: a swipe. With this innovation, there is no need for a home button; the screen is all-encompassing. The three home views of the user interface are designed to give fast access to the most important things people do with a phone: using apps, staying up to date with notifications and social networks, and switching between activities. The Nokia N9 also packs the latest in camera, navigation and audio technology for a great all-round experience while the details that make the Nokia N9 unique – the industrial design, the all-screen user experience, and the expressive Qt framework for developers – will evolve in future Nokia products. The Nokia E6 has been developed to become the essential smart device for anyone looking for seamless on the go social connectivity and engagement. The Nokia

E6 also brings a unique touch and type user experience that was designed to help satisfy the different interactivity demands of the most social users, while the new Symbian Anna platform offers a host of usability enhancements, including fresh, new icons, improved text input, easier and faster internet browsing experience. SAMSUNG Rewriting the rules of technology, Samsung takes on the big world of mobile phones with the much anticipated Samsung GALAXY S II. Incorporating a dual-core application processor and advanced wireless network (HSPA+ 21) connectivity, the Samsung GALAXY S II has the power and speed to provide an unrivalled mobile performance. The processor delivers fast web browsing, multi-tasking comparable to a PC-like environment, supreme graphics quality and a receptive 3D user interface. It also offers rapid mobile download speeds while the BlueTooth® 3.0+HS feature considerably reduces data transfer times. The WiFi Direct allows consumers to connect to wireless-enabled PCs and printers without the need for wireless access points. The Samsung GALAXY S II has been equipped with an 8MP, camera and camcorder with 1080p full HD recording and playback. With Samsung’s patented AllShare technology, customers can capture, and share their experiences online. The Samsung GALAXY S II is equipped with Samsung’s new crystal-clear Super AMOLED Plus screen, the most advanced mobile visual display ever created. The Super AMOLED Plus introduces the best in quality, color gamut, contrast ratio and edge sharpness. Samsung has also introduced a range of enterprise mobility solutions, expanding the business capabilities of the Samsung GALAXY S. It gives customers an opportunity to have a flexible and connected mobile workforce. Samsung has collaborated with industry leaders to offer the most relevant enterprise solutions to the Samsung GALAXY S II that pays special attention to data and network security. These solutions include enhanced conferencing and connectivity services from Cisco, the most comprehensive mobile implementation of Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync and secure remote device management from Sybase. Samsung has launched the Samsung Hubs integrated mobile applications designed to fit every element of your life – in the new phone. These include the Social Hub Premium; the Readers Hub; the Game Hub and the Music Hub. The Samsung Hubs deliver a rich and wide variety of information, entertainment, access to social networks, games and more.

SONY ERICSSON Ergonomically designed, stylish and equipped with a GreenHeart™, Sony Ericsson’s Xperia™ neo features Sony’s cutting edge technological advancements. Taking into consideration green innovations that reduce the impact of phones without compromising on quality, Xperia™ neo is built on the stunning design language that Sony Ericsson is reputed for. The smartphone boasts a unique shape that not only looks good but is ergonomically designed to fit perfectly in the user’s hand, especially when taking pictures. Xperia™ neo is equipped with 8.1 megapixel camera that boasts Sony’s awardwinning Exmor R™ for mobile sensor. The CMOS sensor allows the capture of high-quality, bright pictures and HD video recording even in poor light conditions that can be shared on an HD TV via the built in HDMI-connector. It can also be viewed on the 3.7” screen featuring Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine, which delivers exceptional visual brilliance and a crystal clear image to enhance the overall LG Optimus Black entertainment experience on Xperia™ neo. Xperia™ neo runs on the latest Android 2.3 Gingerbread platform that gives users access to over 200,000 applications for an augmented communication experience. ‘Facebook inside Xperia’, a unique application that allows instant communication and advanced social media experience, is also included.

Sony Ericsson Xperia

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Gallery

A star to behold

Vertu creates its first smartphone with the Constellation Quest designed to complement and enhance lifestyles of discerning users

hen it comes to luxury and phones, Vertu remains at the to p. The luxury phone manufacturer recently unveiled its first smartphone, the Constellation Quest. Created to seamlessly complement and enhance a discerning lifestyle, this unique qwerty device combines an unparalleled luxury services offering with the latest business tools, presented with Vertu’s unmatched attention to detail in design and materials. Perry Oosting, President of Vertu said, “Vertu has applied its values of an authentic, tailored, luxury experience to our first smartphone, creating a handset that is as functional as it is beautiful. The launch of another new form factor reflects our ongoing engagement with our customers to deliver the products they desire.” Constellation Quest has been designed with the user experience first and foremost in mind, creating a smartphone that is a pleasure to use. The home screen is uncluttered, displaying only the essentials as chosen by the customer. These may include email notifications, calendar appointments and selected news feeds. Also featured is a Vertu design signature – an analogue clock – which automatically adjusts to the user’s location. The whole user experience is one designed to be effortless and intuitive. On taking ownership of a new Constellation Quest at a Vertu boutique, Vertu’s trained assistants will work with the customer to configure the phone’s settings to suit individual preferences, including email accounts, information feeds and social networking facilities. The My Key function is also configurable for instant access to four preferred applications. With support for multiple mailboxes, Vertu will ensure easy access to all required email accounts from the new handset. 106

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Dedicated to providing an effortless user experience supported by services offered, Vertu provides technical assistance 24 hours a day with Vertu Remote Assist, a unique offering in the mobile phone market. Should a customer not be able to resolve an issue with a handset via instruction from Vertu’s technical support team, with the user’s consent, a technician can remotely access the phone in order to resolve any technical or set up queries. Constellation Quest introduces vertu.me, a service that provides the user with a Vertu email account and effortless harmonisation of the device’s lifestyle and business tools. Should the customer choose, the user’s emails, contacts, calendar and task information can be automatically synchronised with Vertu’s secure servers, giving the benefit of protected back up of their data. Vertu offers the consumer complete peace of mind, as should the handset be lost, this data can be retrieved and seamlessly downloaded to a replacement phone. The system also ensures that whenever the vertu.me account is accessed, whether from the phone, a home or office computer (PC and Mac) or via the web, this information is up to date. Vertu has been a pioneer of delivering relevant, tailored luxury information and service direct to a mobile handset. With Constellation Quest, Vertu has enhanced these services still further, presenting opportunities for lifestyle enrichment and enhancement. When a customer registers a Constellation Quest handset, activating the Vertu Concierge service, they are offered an optional initial ‘fitting’ call. Whether this takes place immediately at the time of purchase, or at a time of the customer’s choosing, the fitting call is an opportunity to explain, in full, the Vertu Concierge service offering and to match the different Vertu Concierge options to the needs of the customer. This includes the establishment of individual preferences, the scope of the service they would prefer and importantly, the type of contact they wish to receive from Vertu. Vertu Concierge has been enhanced for the launch of Constellation Quest, giving the user three different options for lifestyle assistance and enrichment. Depending on a customer’s expected frequency of use, Vertu Concierge will suggest the service type best suited to that customer’s needs. Vertu Concierge’s core offering across the three services is its unparalleled ability to respond to a customer’s needs and offer appropriate experiences and opportunities. If more frequent use is anticipated, a further service will provide the customer with a dedicated lifestyle manager who, through a more direct one-to-one relationship, understands and will proactively anticipate an individual’s potential needs and requirements. Vertu Concierge is also pleased to offer a bespoke solution for the customer who uses the service on a multiple basis daily, and who has very exacting requirements for lifestyle management.

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Each Constellation Quest handset is built by just one technician who signs the handset, an assurance of Vertu’s commitment to quality

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Vertu Concierge has been enhanced for the launch of Constellation Quest, giving the user three different options for lifestyle assistance and enrichment

Vertu Concierge is accessed via a dedicated key on the handset, which when pressed displays options for Vertu Concierge or Vertu Technical Assistance and also whether the user would prefer to contact by voice call or email; the phone numbers and email addresses of these service are preloaded. With global experts based in city hubs around the world, Vertu Concierge provides dedicated and independent lifestyle assistance, 24 hours a day, worldwide, in nine widely spoken languages. Vertu City Brief, a global digest of information, recommendations and protocol in 140 cities worldwide, has grown in strength since its launch in September 2009. Independently written for Vertu by experts in their respective fields, Vertu City Brief will also now be available in an expanded range of languages. Vertu Select is the on-device window into a rich collection of highly curated original content and opportunities, designed to inspire and entertain the Vertu customer. This perfect blend of global and regional relevance is available in eight languages. Everything is independently sourced for Vertu, by Vertu, ensuring that customers receive the very best information, directly to the Constellation Quest handset. Opportunities are made a reality simply by contacting Vertu Concierge.

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Constellation Quest performs on all levels, not only in terms of material performance and unparalleled customer services but also in terms of its technical specification. Constellation Quest is a truly global product with multiband GSM, 3G and HSPA coverage. Combined with hi-speed WLAN, Constellation Quest keeps the user connected wherever they are in the world. User memory is 40 GB ensuring plenty of storage of documents and images whilst on the move. Constellation Quest features a high resolution and high contrast VGA screen for clarity of viewing; the handset also features a video output jack for larger viewing of films, images, presentations and emails. Other technical specifications include Bluetooth®, free global maps and navigation with Assisted GPS, high quality acoustics and optimised speaker, up and downlink noise reduction and an FM radio. Each Constellation Quest handset is built by just one technician who signs the handset, an assurance of Vertu’s commitment to quality. This level of detail pervades all the design and engineering elements of the phone. High performance materials are used in the sapphire crystal screen and colour matched ceramic pillow; beautiful detailing is prevalent, with engine-turned patterning of the interior casing and the V design engraving on the SIM card holder. The crystal sapphire keys are created by multiple, intricate processes, including silkscreen printing of the key’s graphic. Extremely hardwearing, the individual pieces of sapphire crystal are honed to a beautiful, faceted V shape, resulting in a keyboard that is a tactile pleasure to use. As expected from Vertu, all materials used to create Constellation Quest are of the highest quality. The phone’s casings are formed from surgical grade stainless steel or in the case of one variant, 18 carat yellow gold, complemented by the use of the finest leather. These, combined with accents of polished steel and sapphire give Constellation Quest a very pleasing aesthetic and a sense of visual tactility – a product that is as beautiful to look at as it is to hold in the hand.

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SIMPLY MUSTS

A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of luxury Style Sense The Atlas Cocktail is the latest from the Tiffany Watch Co. Ltd. Its shimmering black lacquered dial, full cut diamonds and distinctive Roman numerals give the new Atlas Cocktail the lustrous glow of glamour and sophistication. Beneath the diamond-encrusted surface lies a glowing, black lacquered dial adorned with slim, polished, faceted triangle hands and the Tiffany & Co. logo, just below XII. The crown and the clasp on the 18-carat white gold buckle present top-class diamonds as well. A black satin strap lends further distinction to this assured, superbly styled timepiece. This watch is also available in red, white or yellow gold with a white mother-of-pearl dial and a white satin strap, in 26 mm, 30 mm and 36 mm sizes. www.tiffany.com

Sensible Essential The iBike Dash CC cycling computer from Velocomp is a light-weight wireless bicycle computer system that turns any iPhone or iPod touch into your own personal fitness trainer. It enhances the cycling experience in a much more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before to take advantage of the summer to get into shape! www.thomas-pr.com

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Perfect Casing The NewerTech iFolio leather case lets you travel with your iPad or iPad 2 in the ultimate of luxury and craftsmanship. Handcrafted in the USA from premium imported Brazilian leather, iFolio is available in 11 fashionable colors (from cognac, black, yellow, red and more) and can be used with or without the shoulder strap. It provides padded protection that hides your iPad/iPad 2 for security while on the road and includes a slot for document storage as well as an ID/ business card holder.

Exotic Collection A unique handcrafted genuine crocodile skin bag carries with it a certificate of authenticity. The bag boasts of an interior leather lining with magnetic clasp closure. The bag has features like an interior zip and cell phone/pda pockets. Pick this beautiful bag from the brand new store, Sherie that houses bags and accessories which are all meticulously handcrafted to perfection. Available in Sherie in Bareeq Al Shatti, Oman

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Juice it up! Stylish and streamlined, the Bugatti VITA is the latest addition to the Bugatti family of stylish kitchen appliances. It has been designed by Habits. The Vita juicer can serve juices and the body can be tilted by 60Â° for maximum juice extraction. The juicer is equipped with 2 large press cones with an upper bowl which holds up to 0.6 litres of juice. www.bugatti.com

Class Apart Paul Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashionable dark brown leather shoe has a round toe, with classic brogue stitch patterning and red contrast detail at the heel. The heel measures approximately 25mm/ 1 inches. The shoes are presented in a Paul Smith box with signature ribbon binding. www.paulsmith.co.uk

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Aesthetic Beauty Hermes’ lovely new range of procelain and chinaware, Bleus d’Ailleurs, will transport you with the evocative power of travel, right at your table. Its striking blue, black and white palette hails from a rich, exotic heritage, from the Ming dynasty to sixteenth century European courts, from the mosques of Samarkand to the minarets of Isfahan. The end result is a powerful, moving tableau of the historical bonds between the East and West. The collection comprises of exquisite dishes, bowls, vases and teapots that celebrate beauty both natural and manmade. www.luxguru.typepad.com

Contemporary Style The ritual of a shared cup of tea carries with it many meanings, but at its core it represents a sharing of a delicate unfolding of elements. An unfolding of a conversation with a guest. A time to process and share thoughts with another, to relax and lower one’s guard as the delicate and subtle flavors of the tea unfold in the steeping brew. This creative new tea set has been designed to keep in line with the modern contemporary times. www.harrods.com

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