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Trailblazer First and Business Class travel is more of a necessity these days than luxury. Airline companies are leaving no stones unturned to ensure that customers are provided luxurious and exclusive service. A selection of airlines that are the best of First and Business Class choices

Exclusive Helen Gates, a pioneering member in the British Embassy talks about the forthcoming celebrations and initiatives taken up by the Embassy in commemorating the 40th anniversary of His Majestyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reign in Oman

Business and Finance

Economy As 2011 approaches, where is the world economy headed? Are the effects of the global recession finally wearing out?

Advertorial The GPW team visits Salalah and is mesmerised by the Salalah Beach Resort currently in development by Muriya Tourism

Advertorial Home Away From Home (Dar Al Hanan) project is an initiative by the National Association for Cancer

November 2010

Awareness. The dream project was finally realised last month when the keys of the facility were handed over to Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy

Automobilia

Drive The autobahn was the perfect stretch to test the new Audi A8L. Needless to say, the new wheels from Audi performed like a dream all the way from Munich to Salzburg

Bike The new MV Agusta F4 showcases high performance and class along with styling which sets the new standard in the world of super sport motorcycles

Art and Design

Canvas Figurative art is Karenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forte. She is famous for creating bold artworks based on Omani culture and traditions and is currently working on Arabic scriptures. She was in town recently where she discussed about her next project

Author Tim Mackintosh Smith is a prize winning author and a broadcaster who travels around the world following the footsteps of the famed 14th century Moroccan traveller, Ibn Battutah. Known as an Arabist, Traveller and Writer, he

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was in town recently to launch his latest book – Landfalls

Muscat recently which received an overwhelming response

Gourmet & Hospitality

The first edition of Omani Women’s Fashion Trends was held recently that brought together four of Oman’s extremely talented designers

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Ambrosia Light, flavoursome and aromatic, truffle oil is one of the most fascinating condiments in the culinary world. Though not as expensive as the main ingredient, truffle oil is just as exquisite

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Travel and Lifestyle

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Culinaire The ‘Festival of Senses’ was part of Al Bustan Palace InterContinental’s 25th anniversary celebrations. Guests and food aficionados were treated to a unique and special culinary journey

Destination History, culture, modernism and beauty intermingle in the bustling country, Jordan. A journey through some of its most appealing and fascinating spots

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Lounge Our selections for book lovers this month Fall of Giants by Ken Follett and Obama’s Wars by Bob Woodward

Style and Beauty

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Fashion Tetsuya Mizutani’s fresh, feminine creations from the traditional Kimono costume have proved to be a hit among celebrities and artists for whom he often designs stage costumes. He had his debut fashion show held in

Gala Oman played host to French Haute Couture for the very first time at an exhibition held at the French Museum where an eclectic collection of wedding dresses by the prestigious Musée Galliera in Paris was showcased View Nature and luxury come together in the young yet popular French skincare brand, NUXE. Natural active ingredients, delicate fragrances and unique textures are the highlights of this absolutely fascinating brand

market

Gallery The latest beauty and skincare products in the

Melange

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Simply Musts A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of

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Extravaganza Indian cinema’s ‘dream girl’, Hema Malini and daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol were in Muscat recently for a charity dinner and dance event

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I, Me, Myself Fiona Griffiths, General Manager of fashion boutique, Nick&Friends, shares some interesting life vignettes

November 2010

Reflections Oman - the jewel of Arabia There is festivity and rejoicing all around. No prizes for guessing that everyone is celebrating Oman’s momentous journey over the past 40 years, from the time His Majesty Sultan Qaboos came into power. And it truly is an occasion to be celebrated. Turning a country that was bereft of basic amenities and almost unknown to the outside world till 1970 into a nation that has seen stunning growth in 40 years is no small task. Today Oman is among the top few countries that have achieved amazing results in a span of 40 years. As a result of His Majesty’s incredible foresight and leadership, the country is a shining example of what diligence and prudence can achieve. What makes Oman a true jewel in the region is its steadfast growth over the years without any hindrance to a country’s main aspects – culture, traditions, environment and people. One of the most looked forward to events during this month is the visit of Queen Elizabeth. The Head of State had visited the Sultanate in 1979 and I am sure she will be enthralled by the development of the country since her visit 31 years ago. The Queen’s impending visit is one of the most important events in the country and Crème de la Crème will be bringing you a special report next month. As for this month, our cover story is a report on the top six airlines with the best First and Business facilities. A survey was conducted among business personalities, executives and readers who travel frequently for work or leisure to decide which airlines fit the bill. The result is in the pages that lie ahead. Also in this issue we take a look at the global economy, drive the stunning new Audi A8L from Munich to Salzburg and present some breathtaking haute couture from Musee Galliera in Paris. There is a lot more to read and let me not keep you. Team Crème de la Crème wishes His Majesty and the people of the Sultanate of Oman our hearty wishes on the 40th anniversary of this beautiful country. Till we meet again…

Editor anne@sjsoman.com

November 2010

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November 2010 Vol - II Issue - 24

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 D. SHERWIN

International Correspondent VAILIA FERNANDES

EVENTS C. S. KUMAR SEEMA AL BALUSHI

PHOTOGRAPHER ELVIS FERRAO

SUBSCRIPTIONS ARUN DAS SHEIKHA AL HARTHY

DISCLAIMER

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

DISTRIBUTION ABDULLAH AL BALUSHI ZAHRA AL BALUSHI

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

November 2010

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE AFTER YOU HAVE ENJOYED READING IT

Platinum Club

Trailblazer w Exclusive November 2010

Platinum Club

Trailblazer

Travelling First or Business Class is not really a luxury anymore but rather de rigueur as air travel has become the norm in just about everyone’s life. Crème de la Crème takes a closer look at the top players who have stand ahead of the others in these two categories of travel Crème de la Crème Report 44

November 2010

irst and Business Class travelling till sometime back used to be luxury enjoyed by business travellers and the affluent. But not any more. Premiere travelling is in fact becoming the de rigueur especially among businesspeople, affluent and busy executives as air travel becomes the norm in just about everyone’s life. Airlines, too, cater to the rising class of travellers who choose to travel premiere over economy. As more people choose to travel First and Business Class, airline companies are on a neck and neck race to provide travellers with the best they can offer. Five star service, limousine pick and drop, exclusive lounge facilities and gourmet meals are just some of the highlights offered by airlines to First and Business Class passengers. With an onslaught of services and facilities, it can be

FLYING HIGH hard to demarcate the best from the ordinary. After all, a flat bed is present in almost all flights these days whereas an exclusive cabin to sleep in makes all the difference! Pillows and plush blankets are essential for the two top tiers of travelling, but when an airline offers you turn down service at bedtime, it stands out from the rest. We have chosen six top airlines that have been voted as the most preferred by travellers mostly from Oman as well as industry professionals, executives and businessmen who are frequent travellers. QATAR AIRWAYS Award winning Qatar Airways is often referred to the 5-star airline of the skies. The airlines have raked in rave reviews from all quarters for its exceptional service, inflight facilities and overall customer satisfaction rating.

Qatar Airway’s has the distinction of opening the world’s first dedicated passenger terminal exclusively for First and Business Class passengers, built at a cost of almost US$100 million at Doha International Airport, Qatar. THE SEATS First Class Luxury and exclusivity go hand in hand in Qatar Airways’s First Class. There are only eight seats in this premier section, each with private enclosed personal seating area. Every seat has access to an aisle. Qatar Airways boasts of fully flat 180 degree beds on their Boeing 777 currently. Business Class In the Business Class passengers can sleep comfortably on Sogerma Sleeper Seats that recline fully to 160 degrees

November 2010

with up to 60” seat pitch. The LCD screens are placed on the back of the seats and thus take out the discomfort of the swinging arm seen on many airlines. ONBOARD FACILITIES First Class 17” personal touchscreen LCD TVs form the highlight of the First Class entertainment facilities. The fully interactive In-flight Entertainment System includes newscasts, latest movies, TV shows and a personal jukebox. Business Class Touch-screen in-flight entertainment, 15.4” monitors and over 770 audio and visual options are part of the onboard entertainment facilities. The airlines has also introduced OnAir service, on certain sectors and flights where sending and receiving SMS or MMS messages, e-mail or browsing the Internet over a smartphone or laptop is possible. CUISINE First Class Five-star dining facility is offered in the First Class with an exquisite ten-course meal that includes a medley of delights such as caviar, lobster, Arabic mezzas and fine chocolates accompanied by a fine selection of beverages. Business Class Fine dining on demand with a three-course meal 46

November 2010

featuring authentic Arabic mezze, gourmet cheese and chocolates is what the airlines offers its premium travelers in this class. ADDITIONAL FACILITIES First Class First Class passenger traveling to European nations from Doha will be chauffeured personally in a premium BMW 7-Series right to the aircraft for boarding. Qatar Airways allows baggage allowance of 40 kg and those traveling on their Trans Atlantic flights can take up to two pieces of luggage with each not exceeding 32 kg. Business Class Besides having access to the premium Terminal, Business Class passengers have baggage allowance of 30 kg while those traveling on Trans Atlantic flights can take along two pieces of luggage with each not exceeding 32 kg. OMAN AIR The national carrier of the Sultanate, Oman Air has slowly but steadily raised its wings and created a mark in the aviation industry. State-of-the-art aircrafts A330-300 and A330-200 have joined the fleet, opening a new chapter in comfort and luxury. The crew is now attired in speciallydesigned uniforms by the House of Balenciaga. THE SEATS First Class There are just 6 six seats in the First Class cabin, together with a luxurious lounge area. Oman Air’s also boasts of a First Class Mini Suite that has the longest lie-flat bed available on any commercial airliner and is set within a massive 87-inch pitch.

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The national carrier of the Sultanate, Oman Air has slowly but steadily raised its wings and created a mark in the aviation industry

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November 2010

Business Class New seats in the Business Class onboard the A330200 and A330-300 feature fixed-shell fully-flat bed, with electronically-controlled back rest, leg rest and seat depth, and a seat width of 22 inches. There is also a buddy seat for a guest within each cabin cubicle. ONBOARD FACILITIES First Class Each of the 25.5-inch wide seat features built-in 8 point massage system, stowage for hand luggage, dedicated space to hang a coat and a huge 23-inch video monitor. Business Class Other features of the seat include a drinks tray, a compartment for the headset, a 17-inch TV screen, two USB sockets, an ethernet RJ45 plug and laptop charging facility. Internet, email and mobile phone access is available at every seat. CUISINE First Class A-la carte menus have been designed especially for those flying on A330-300 and A330-200 on the Muscat-London Heathrow route. Caviar, poached fillet of beef, Loch Fyne gravadlax and a wide range of mouth-watering desserts are included in the remarkable menu. Business Class World class cuisine is the order of the day onboard Oman Air flights while those on Muscat-London Heathrow get to choose from a delectable spread of European and Arabic menus. ADDITIONAL FACILITIES First Class Passengers can take up to 50 kilograms of luggage. First Class passengers are also provided with Chauffeur Drive airport transfer service at select destinations across the airlinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s network. Business Class Oman Air allows up to 40 kilograms of luggage for Business Class travelers and also provides complimentary Chauffeur Drive service at select destinations. EMIRATES Emirates pampers their travelers even before the journey has begun. Emirates has invested over Dhs 230 million (US$63m) in expanding its exclusive lounge network worldwide. Emirates began developing dedicated lounges outside of its Dubai hub in 2004. Today, the airlineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 23 lounges serves over 5,600 Emirates passengers at any one time, providing premium customers a comfortable and luxurious environment to relax in. SEATS First Class The A380s feature 14 private suites, with seats that convert to fully flat beds. The suites are equipped with an electrically operated door, mini bar, reading lights, work

November 2010

desk - with built-in illuminated vanity mirror, personal electrically controlled mini-bar and room service feature. First Class travellers are also privy to two fully-equipped bathrooms in the cabins, including shower facilities. Business Class Seats with pitch of 39 and 48 inches extend to form 70to 79-inch (1.77 to two metres) fully-flat beds, respectively. Housed in a shell-like enclosure, the seat comes with builtin amenities such as mini-bar, privacy panel (for centre seats only) which can be moved up and down, large personal table, separate foot-rest extension (electrically operated), laptop stowage, literature pocket, shoe stowage, adjustable headrests and noise cancellation headsets. ONBOARD FACILITIES First Class The suites are equipped with an electrically operated door, mini bar, reading lights, work desk - with built-in illuminated vanity mirror, personal electrically controlled mini-bar and room service feature. Touch screen Wireless Integrated Passenger Seat Controller to control Emiratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; IFE (In-flight Entertainment) and seat functions is the other highlight in this class. Exclusive complimentary amenity kits from Bvlgari are provided on night flights as well as slipperettes, socks, eye-shades, pillows and cottonlined blankets.

November 2010

Business Class Every cabin has a 17-inch wide LCD screen, linked to Emiratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; award-winning ICE in-flight entertainment system. Each cabin also features a unique, advanced mood lighting system, complete with a starlit sky. CUISINE First Class Complemented by an array of beverages, Emirates serves seven-course meals, prepared by master chefs, hot or cold breakfast (depending on flight time) on long-haul flights and even low calorie meals on flights from Dubai to Europe and UK to Dubai. Business Class A six-course menu is offered to travelers as well as hot or cold breakfast on long-haul flights. Emirates changes its menu in the Business Class to provide variety to its regular travelers. ADDITIONAL FEATURES First Class Four dedicated, multi-lingual First Class cabin crew, free domestic flights to UK airport of departure, complimentary First Class transfer on Heathrow Express, complimentary chauffeur-drive service to and from selected airports and Fast track immigration channel on arrival and departure in Dubai are some of the services provided by Emirates to those traveling on First Class. Business Class Complimentary chauffeur-drive service to and from

November 2010

selected airports, free domestic flights to UK airport of departure, free mobile phone for 21 days at London Gatwick / Heathrow and dedicated Business Class checkin desks are some of the highlights of travelling as Emirates’s premium customer. ETIHAD Although one of the youngest airlines around, Etihad had carved a niche for itself in the aviation sector with impeccable service, outstanding products and experience that leaves a lasting impression. SEATS First Class Etihad’s First Class suite features a luxurious Poltrona Frau leather seat that converts to a fully flat bed, a large wood-finished table complete with Arabic-styled sliding doors offering complete privacy. Business Class The award-winning Pearl Business Class seating will soon be replaced by new advanced Business class seats, which are longer and wider in a 1-2-1 configuration. The seats include larger meal and cocktail tables and luxurious leather headsets, armrests and ottomans upholstered by Poltrona Frau. CUISINE First Class A dine anytime service is one Etihad’s exclusive offering. Guests can dine when they like, choosing from an extensive á la carte menu or ‘Kitchen Anytime’ menu. Dedicated Food

and Beverage Managers, hired from leading establishments worldwide, are available to help guests find the right dish to suit their mood and the perfect accompaniment. Business Class Stylish, understated and attentive, the service is definitely top class. Five-star hospitality is what Etihad offers its Business Class customers. The dishes are prepared by award-winning chefs. ONBOARD FACILITIES First Class A 23 inch personal entertainment screen, a personal wardrobe with mirror, in-seat power points and USBs are some of the highlights of this premium class. First class customers also receive a valise containing luxury products from Salvatore Ferragamo and a sleeper suit. Business Class Guests can set the mood with ambient lighting that have dimmer settings, and a state-of-the-art Panasonic eX2 in-flight entertainment system with a 15.4 inch personal screen. In Business Class, guests receive a valise containing designer skincare products from Aigner. ADDITIONAL FEATURES First Class Etihad offers access to luxury lounges to the airline’s First guests at all destinations, in conjunction with its airline partners. In Abu Dhabi, the airline’s exclusive First class lounge offers guests use of a complimentary Six Senses spa, cigar lounge, champagne bar, and à la carte fine dining.

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Business Class In its Pearl Business class lounge, guests can enjoy a complimentary spa treatment from Six Senses spa, international buffet cuisine, as well as business, rest and relaxation and entertainment options. SWISS Offering travellers true Swiss hospitality and remarkable service, SWISS is one of the most popular airlines today. Attention to detail and personal service place this airline a notch above many other players in the arena. SEATING First Class There are only eight First Class armchairs in the airlines’s long-haul aircrafts. The armchair converts into a comfortable bed at the touch of a button. Onboard the A330-300 airbus (on selected routes) state-of-the-art seats adjust to suit personal preferences. Business Class The new two-metre Business Class reclines fully to a lie-flat position. The Swiss Business Class Seat also features a world first in the form of an air cushion that extends throughout its length. The seat can also be adjusted to take on various levels, from hard to soft. ONBOARD FACILITIES First Class Among some of its highlights are adjustable privacy panels and a variety of technical features that let turn your seat into a private office. A large table and extra ottoman in every seat are designed to enable you and another SWISS First passenger hold work meetings together. Business Class The new seat comes with an integrated massage function, USB and iPod sockets and a bigger 16:9-format in-flight entertainment screen. CUISINE First Class SWISS offers a delectable cuisine that offers the flavours of Switzerland. Whether it’s a la carte or multicourse meal, the dining experience is exquisite. The chef ’s fabulous creations include a variety of outstanding

November 2010

vegetarian dishes and are complemented by a selection of premium beverages. Business Class SWISS offers both international as well as Swiss cuisines on board its Business Class. The airline offers fivecourse meals to those who would like to indulge in their culinary treats or also choose a quick yet appetising meal. Between meals, the airline serves tempting fine glace (ice cream) or other snacks if guests require. ADDITIONAL FEATURES First Class Boasting the world’s biggest (currently) in-flight screen at 23-inches, SWISS promises unparalleled onboard entertainment. Guests’ requirements are attended to by an exclusive maître de cabine. Business Class The airline provides every passenger in Business Class with an amenity kit containing socks, sleeping mask, toothbrush, toothpaste, ear plugs and Swiss care products. Additional personal grooming products are provided if required. SINGAPORE AIRLINES In a class of its own, Singapore Airlines has attained undisputed ranking in the aviation sector. The airlines that is renowned for flawless service, gourmet cuisines and features that are beyond the norm, Singapore Airlines remains among the top best airlines. First Class (SUITES) Offering an experience like none other, Singapore Airlines’s Suites onboard the A380 is all about luxury, .comfort and exclusivity. Each cabin features sliding doors and window blinds, as well as a standalone bed. The premium cabin has also been laid out to offer more stowage space for your cabin baggage and personal items, and a full length wardrobe – all within easy reach. Business Class The spacious new Business Class has the largest seat and fully-flat bed in its category. These new cabin products are fitted on Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER, A380 and A340-500. There is remarkable space between each

seat, thereby providing travellers with you direct access to the aisle. ONBOARD FACILITIES First Class (SUITES) All that is required to do business, or enjoy KrisWorld, the in-flight entertainment system is easily accessible, including a multi-port with power supply, headphone connection, USB ports and more. Business Class The latest entertainment, including audio and video-ondemand, can be enjoyed on 15.4-inch personal widescreen LCD. A writing kit comprising postcards, envelopes, and writing pad is available upon request. CUISINE First Class (SUITES) The Singapore Airlines International Culinary Panel comprising the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning chefs prepare tantalizing dishes for guests. The meals are presented on elegant tableware, specially designed by Givenchy.

Business Class Each meal is specially created by the airlinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Culinary Panel of celebrated chefs from around the globe. Guests are offered full table service, complete with contemporary designer tableware from Givenchy. ADDITIONAL FACILITIES First Class (SUITES) Singapore Airlines provides pyjamas and beddings exclusively designed by Givenchy. Exquisite Ferragamo toiletries are provided for further pampering while the stylish restrooms feature a full-size mirrors. Business Class Singapore Airlines provides soft terry-cloth socks and eyeshades to travellers on all flights of two and a half hours or more. A range of branded toiletries such as eau de cologne, aftershave, and moisturising lotion is available Business Class lavatories. In addition, toothbrush sets, combs, disposable razors, and shaving cream are also available.

November 2010

Platinum Club

Exclusive

Helen Gates has been a pioneering member in the British Embassy who is currently playing a key role in the forthcoming celebrations and initiatives taken up by the Embassy in commemorating the 40th anniversary of His Majesty’s reign in Oman Script: Sudipta Dasgupta

Celebrating a Milestone O man has been busy preparing for the upcoming celebration of the 40th anniversary of His Majesty’s reign in Oman over the past few months. The city has been going through a major facelift to commemorate the anniversary celebrations along with the Queen’s visit at the end of this month. The British Embassy has actively been involved with the Diwan of Royal Court in making the state visit a success. Along with that they have been able to successfully raise a 40 for 40 initiative scholarship fund for Omani students, which is a culmination of the strong BritainOman bilateral ties. Helen Gates, Consul-General and Deputy Head of Mission of the British Embassy gives us a brief description of how exactly the embassy is gearing up for all the celebration slated to happen at the end of this month. Please tell us about yourself. Since when have you been working at the Embassy? I came to Oman at the end of 2008 after completing my tenure in Afghanistan. My role at the British Embassy is that of a Deputy Head which means that I look after a whole range of activities that the embassy does ranging from political affairs, economics, education, visas and consular services etc, the whole spectrum. A big part of my job is ensuring that the Embassy provides high quality services to the British and Omani communities here in Oman as well as to many other nationalities. It is mostly focused at strengthening our relationship (United Kingdom-Oman) and to see how we could

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continue to grow and develop. Can you share some of the major developments between the two nations that you have noticed from the time you started working at the Embassy? Many; this year has been particularly busy. People who are going to the UK to study are definitely growing as well as the activities we do on the commercial side is ever increasing. UK-Oman relationship started on a very healthy note right from the beginning so it has always witnessed an upward trend only. And a state visit by the Queen herself is brining all of that together – a very clear and obvious focus. Could you give us a brief on the Queen’s visit to Oman? How important is the visit for Oman? Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Philip) will be here at the end of November at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of his reign. I think it will be a big demonstration of the length and breadth of our bilateral relationship which will all be put into context. It is the highlight of the year for the Embassy, if not the decade. The last time the Queen visited Oman was back in 1979 and she saw an Oman that was just beginning to develop and lots of exciting things were happening and now she is coming back to see a country which has moved on tremendously. I think it is quite a fascinating contrast in many ways. For us at the Embassy, we see it in a much longer continuum in terms

of the UK-Oman relationship which stretches back for hundreds of years and not just the last 40 years. Oman and UK signed a treaty of friendship in 1800 and that cemented the relationship which existed even before that actually. Those days it was mostly a commercial relationship as it continues to be today as well but of course with the Queen’s visit - it reminds one of those links that existed over the years. How exactly is the Embassy preparing to welcome the Queen and the Prince? We are currently working very closely with the Diwan of the Royal Court because they are responsible for the Queen’s visit. We are working in partnership with them to make the visit successful as much as we possibly can. The various events that will be organised will showcase Oman’s growth and development which will be witnessed by Her Majesty and His Royal Highness. We are also very keen to have the participation from as many members from the British community to experience the visit as well. We are grateful to the Diwan in that respect. And yes there is one event that we are hosting which is going to be at the ambassador’s residence which will have a big mix of people from the British, Commonwealth and Omani communities. The Diwan is very professional and used to dealing with big incoming head of state visits so it all makes it a little less complicated for us. Do you think this visit will strengthen the UKOman relationship further? Well, the relationship is good anyway but what the visit does is bring into focus lot of aspects. So I expect it will bring some enduring effect. Whenever you have visitors or delegation coming into the country, it just brings back memories in everybody’s minds and that is the kind of response we are really looking for. We will carry on doing all the same things we do anyway; this visit will give us an extra boost to all that we do. Could you also tell us a little about the 40/40 Scholarship Fund that is currently being raised through various charitable events? How has the response been so far? The response has been very positive actually. The whole idea was under discussion between the British Scholarships for Oman (BSO) and the British Embassy for some time to launch a scheme (the 40 for 40 Initiative) to mark the 40th anniversary of His Majesty’s reign in Oman. I am proud to say that the scheme has been successfully launched under which forty scholarships have already been granted to young Omanis who are pursuing their studies at Omani Universities affiliated with UK educational institutions. The scheme is currently supported by relevant authorities both in the UK and Oman, including the Omani Ministry of Higher Education and the British Council. Can you elaborate on the funding options? The scheme is funded through donations by businesses, organisations and individuals, many with a link to the UK. Many have already generously donated or pledged

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth

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The support of the British Community to the higher education of young Omanis is a statement of belief and partnership in Oman and the important role that the UK can play in this

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contributions. There are several fundraising events being planned to contribute to the scheme as well. Having said that, we will be grateful for any further contributions made towards the scheme. Even small donations will help to fund books or equipment that will enable the scholars to achieve their academic potential. What is the importance of having such an initiative? The support of the British Community to the higher education of young Omanis is a statement of belief and partnership in Oman and the important role that the UK can play in this. The scheme represents a gift to his Majesty in his 40th anniversary year that marks a statement of intent to help Oman to fulfill its potential in the coming years.

November 2010

Business & Finance

Economics w Advertorial November 2010

Finance & Investment

Economics

The world at large The world’s GDP is set to grow by the end of this year. According to IMF’s World Economic Outlook, gradual recovery of the world economy is in motion Crème de la Crème Report

ccording to the data contained in the new report by the IMF’s World Economic Outlook, the world’s GDP at the end of 2010 could grow by 4.2% (January forecast reported 3.9% growth). With regard to this indicator for 2011, compared to January, it has not changed and remains at 4.3%. According to IMF chief economist Olivier Blanchard, a global recession has been avoided, so that a gradual recovery of world economy is present. The Executive Summary of the IMF report is thus: ‘Global recovery has evolved better than expected, with activity recovering at varying speeds - tepidly in many advanced economies but solidly in most emerging and developing economies. Policy support was essential to jump-start the recovery. Monetary policy has been highly expansionary and supported by unconventional liquidity provision. Fiscal policy provided a major stimulus in response to the deep downturn. Among advanced economies, the United States is off to a better start than Europe and Japan. Among emerging and developing economies, emerging Asia is in the lead. Growth is also solidifying in key Latin American and other emerging and developing economies but continues to lag in many emerging European and various Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. Sub-Saharan Africa is weathering the global crisis well, and its recovery is expected to be stronger than following past global downturns. Money markets have stabilized. Corporate bond and

November 2010

equity markets have rebounded. In advanced economies, the tightening of bank lending standards is ending, and the credit crisis appears to be bottoming out. In many emerging and developing economies, credit growth is reaccelerating. Nevertheless, financial conditions remain more difficult than before the crisis. Especially in advanced economies, bank capital is likely to remain a constraint on growth as banks continue to retrench their balance sheets. Sectors that have only limited access to capital markets consumers and small and medium-size enterprises are likely to continue to face tight limits on their borrowing. In a few advanced economies, rising public deficits and debt have contributed to a sharp increase in sovereign risk premiums, posing new risks to the recovery. Together with real and financial activity, crossborder financial flows from advanced to many emerging economies have also rebounded strongly. Key drivers include rapid growth in emerging economies, large yield differentials in their favor, and a returning appetite for risk.’ Due to the fact that the world economy recovers faster than planned, evaluation of losses of the global financial sector during the crisis was reduced by 533 billion dollars. Initially it was assumed that the cancellation of bank assets amount to about 2.8 trillion, however, economic recovery has reduced that figure to $ 2.28 trillion. Losses of the U.S. banking system decreased from 1.03 trillion to 885 billion dollars. The total score of bank loan losses decreased by 13%.

In developing countries, where the formation of the market only occurs, the restoration after the world crisis has been quicker. The highest rate of growth is in Asia, where they make up 8.7% in 2010. The highest recovery rate has been recorded in China, India, Brazil and Mexico. The growth of Chinese economy in 2010 will amount to 10% and in 2011 – 9.9%. The Indian economy will grow in 2010 by 8.8% in 2011 – by 8.4%. Brazil show 5.5% growth in 2010 and 4.1% 0 in 2011, while Mexican GDP will grow by 4.2% in 2010 to 4.5% – in 2011. The Russian economy is expected to recover faster than expected. Specifically, in 2010 an increase of 4% instead of the planned 3.6% in January. GDP growth in 2011 somewhat slowed down to 3.3% (in January was a figure of 3,4%). However, qualitative growth of the Russian economy will be small – it has been forecasted before. The U.S. economy compared to European and Japanese will develop more dynamically. In 2010 the U.S. GDP will grow by 3.1% in 2011 – 2.6%. Japan also will add to its GDP 1.9% in 2010, and in 2011 – 2.0%. As for the euro zone, where the pace of economic development leaves much to be desired, not exceeding in 2010 of 1%. Thus, the strongest European economy – Germany – to grow as a result in 2010 is only by 1.2%, and in 2011 – by 1.7%. (Reproduced from www.imf.org and www. economy2011.org)

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The support of the British Community to the higher education of young Omanis is a statement of belief and partnership in Oman and the important role that the UK can play in this

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November 2010

Advertorial

Ooh la la... Salalah! The GPW team visits Salalah and is mesmerised by the Salalah Beach Resort currently in development by Muriya Tourism

amels, frankincense, white sandy beaches and of course the lush green vistas during the annual Khareef season are just a few of the delights when visiting Salalah. Just 20 kms from the airport east of the main town, you will now also find the beginnings of the new Salalah Beach Resort coming to life and this month the GPW team took a short flight to experience this new and exciting project. Salalah is the capital of Dhofar which is 1000 kms from Muscat, overlooked by the gracious Dhofar Mountains and outlined by the crystal blue waters of the Arabian Sea. The development itself is spread out over 15.6 million square meters, optimising 8.2kms of stunning palm fringed beach front and beautiful white sands. Salalah Beach Resort is one of the four new developments being created by Muriya Tourism, a joint venture between the Government owned Omran, representing Oman’s Ministry of Tourism (30%) and Orascom Hotels and Development (OHD) (70%). As the single largest tourism development company in Oman, Muriya is investing $ 850 million across the four major projects.

November 2010

OHD’s flagship resort is the El Gouna project, Red Sea Egypt, developed over the last 25 years and now a self sustaining vibrant leisure and residential community enjoyed by residents, locals and tourists alike. The Salalah Beach Resort is planned to have 538 villas and 1103 apartments however this will without doubt grow as the community evolves. As an Integrated Tourism Project the resort will also enjoy five 5 star hotels, two boutique hotels, a 200 berth marina and two 18 hole PGA golf courses. Already confirmed are Club Med, Rotana and the Movenpick hotels, all designed in tune with local architecture, capitalising on the beauty of the coast as well as enjoying easy access to the beach. The Rotana will be the first hotel completed, due in 2012. In addition, two smaller boutique hotels will also be delightfully positioned overlooking the marina itself. As demonstrated across this resort, the majority of OHD’s projects begin with remote and undeveloped land, minimising the impact on the overall environment. They are committed to sustainable environmental practices in order to protect the locations as a long term investment,

working hard to maintain the natural treasures on which they are surrounded by. In Salalah Beach for example there will be a low building density of just 25% overall built up, maintained throughout the project ongoing. As we drove around the development this was clear to see from the villas all lying within spacious plots of between 1000m2 – 2000m2, surrounded by natural lagoons and the beginnings of additional waterways flowing through the residential area and winding out and through to what will be the golf courses. Work started across the resort in 2009 and already the villas in phase A are in full construction with the outer shells completed, boundary walls built and the show villa now receiving final finishes and fittings. Looking out from this villa we could fully appreciate the luxury, space and a feeling of freedom these properties within their magnificent grounds will enjoy! There are twelve styles of villas available for sale ranging from two to seven bedrooms, with the first villas planned to be completed in 2011. Recently released for sale are the appealing Rotana villas, lying within the grounds alongside the Rotana hotel, close to the beach and each one fully furnished. In addition, these can be hotel managed with a guaranteed 4% annual income, an ideal solution for investors. The three bedroom absolute beachfront villas are also tempting as the ideal dream holiday home! Alongside the Rotana hotel the new 200 berth marina is currently under construction. Surrounding the marina

are three wings of apartments. Intelligently designed these buildings are maximum four storey’s high in parts and contain 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, all unique with their own individual layouts enhancing a wonderful charm and character to the whole marina area. On the ground floors there will also feature boutiques, cafes and restaurants creating a vibrant centerpiece to the resort. Set apart and on the fringe of the main development we drove out to experience the exclusive Al Jannat (meaning ‘heaven’ in Arabic) land plots. There are 35 individual plots in various sizes up to 10,000m2. Each plot is secluded by surrounding high walls, up to 5 mtrs high in parts. These are a unique proposition and opportunity to create a home of distinction. Within your plot Muriya will build your selected design of villa, although it must be of maximum 4 mtrs in height ensuring privacy to you, your family and your surrounding neighbours. After such a fulfilling and informative day we had only one other destination to explore….the Café De Paris. Situated on the beachfront we soaked up the views….. enjoying the stunning white sands of Salalah beach, drinking cool refreshing fruit juices, watching the sun go down…..Ooh la la! If you would like to know more about Salalah Beach or for further details of our selection of properties available either for sale or rent, please contact our office on 24697588 or e-mail us at info@gpw-oman.com’ Karen Meek Gulf Property World

Property of the Month Our Property of the Month is this fabulous two bedroom apartment overlooking the marina. Located on the second floor this property will be fully furnished complete with a Bose music system. Boasting a built up area of 140m2 it has generous size rooms throughout with the master bedroom enjoying a luxury en suite bathroom and private balcony. Conveniently close to the shops and cafes also this apartment is offered to you as an excellent investment. RO 130,000 25, Jawharat Al Shatti Mall, Shatti Al Qurum, PO Box 446, PC 115, MSQ Tel.: +968 24697588 Fax: +968 24697796 E-mail: info@gpw-oman.com

www.gpw-oman.com

November 2010

Advertorial

A Cause So Special Home Away From Home (Dar Al Hanan) project is a lifetimeinitiative by the National Association for Cancer Awareness. The dream project was finally realised last month when the keys of the facility were handed over to Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy Crème de la Crème Report

he National Association for Cancer Awareness (NACA) was formed in April 2004 as the first patient advocacy group in Oman. A three time cancer survivor, Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy is the Founder of NACA who is famously known as a bold advocator for raising maximum awareness on Cancer in Oman. NACA has had a prestigious record of spreading awareness through various campaigns and messages of early detection, diagnosis and cure. They have been known to carry out several awareness programmes held through campaigns at a Municipal level, distribution of WGO Vice President Anne Parker hands over the cheque to free information and awareness materials nationally and Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy provides a support and information centre for patients can stay for as long as they want till their tests are done,” and relatives. says Al-Rawahy. The association has had the support from several bodies The project will be officially launched in December like the government, the private sector and individual’s. 2010 where all organisations and groups will be The success of the association is evident from the number acknowledged for their contribution towards this cause. of patients who sought early intervention and achieved “We would be very glad if we have more people sponsoring complete treatment. us to maintain the building and most importantly have One of NACA’s most ambitious undertakings is the volunteers such as professionals, teachers, psychologists Home Away From Home (Dar Al Hanan) project which and counselors because these children are going to be here seeks to assist parents with children, who require follow for 1-2 weeks or even a month. We will work very closely ups and tests after being treated and cured of cancer. The with the Ministry of Health, the Royal Hospital, oncology project is a housing facility that has been recently built to department etc,” says Al-Rawahy. cater for children whose parents cannot afford to stay in What are the services provided for the children? “First the hospital while their regular checkups are being done. their parents have to sign an agreement before coming and “When a patient gets detected with cancer, it is not possible staying in this facility. They have to be referred by doctors for them to get cured with just one visit. It is an ongoing from Royal Hospital. There will be a protocol that the process which involves several follow ups, blood tests, scans parents have to adhere to and rules and regulations which and ultrasound. Hence we provide a home for such families they have to abide by. So it is all very well organised and who have their kids brought from far off places,” says Yuthar managed in a very professional manner. There will be a Mohammed Al-Rawahy. special shuttle services for the children as well to facilitate “The children who will be able to stay in this facility their hospital visits.” are not patients suffering from cancer any longer. These Al- Rawahy concludes by saying “We are looking are children who have already been treated and need to for companies to provide services and give funds. It is a do follow up to avoid further complications. Since their lifetime project and we hope to build our own centres immunity is low and can catch infection while staying and not have to rent. We don’t want to turn anybody in the hospital, we have created this facility where they back, so we will definitely need more of these facilities in

November 2010

Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy receives the keys to the facility from the owner of the property

the future.” Michael Donald, Head of Cards (Retail Banking division), National Bank of Oman and Project Advisor to Dar Al Hanan explains their participation in this cause and how it is making a difference in giving shape to Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy’s dream project. Shaping of a Dream “The National Bank Oman and Bank Sohar are just two of the banks who have come on board after the Crystal Ball last year. This journey would not have been possible if the money had not been donated towards NACA by the Crystal Ball committee. This is a very big undertaking which requires time to take shape. The Crystal Ball money became the catalyst from which Yuthar was then able to go out to public groups and spread a message.” Unique Initiative “Since it is not possible for one person to handle this huge project all alone a project team has been involved all of whom are volunteers. I have given my personal time to help support this cause. NBO specifically came onboard with this project at the beginning of the year when we launched the DANA card. We wanted to have a charity that was giving majority of the money back to the people of Oman that needed it. So we chose the NACA and children’s Home Away from Home project because we thought it was such a valuable initiative for the country. It is a major first and having an association with NACA at that stage was very fortunate. The project will see its official launch in December 2010 and it will start operating end of this month itself.” Giving Back “Through this initiative, various organisations, groups

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The children who will be able to stay in this facility are not patients suffering from cancer any longer. These are children who have already been treated and need to do follow up to avoid further complications

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and corporates should come together as one and give back something to the less fortunate. This is about real giving and real support. It should not be mistaken as a Corporate Social Responsibility activity from an advertising sense. It is about real Corporate Social Responsibility where charity takes the limelight and the corporates take a backseat.” Partnering for a cause “This project is a first of its kind in the whole of GCC and coincides with the 40 years National day celebrations. The Crystal Ball held last year was the catalyst to the entire Home Away From Home project. It would not have happened as they had given a large donation towards NACA to start this project. At the same time what we wanted to do with the Dana card was to give a percentage of profits that come from the card as a donation towards this cause. Essentially one of the key messages I want to deliver on behalf of Dar Al Hanan to the many wonderful companies in Oman is that, advertising on the side of the road with large unipoles costs RO 4,000 per year whereas sponsoring a room in Dar Al Hanan for one year costs RO 4,000. This sponsorship for one room can help positively effect 52 young lives and their families. Please think about this and give generously!” November 2010

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

Drive w Bike November 2010

Automobilia

Drive

Audi rewrites the rules

The long-wheelbase A8 L sets new standards in the luxury car segment with a choice of five engines. A drive from Munich to Salzburg shows why Audi is on its way to emerging as a winner of precision auto engineering and manufacturing ď ŽScript: Anne Kurian

November 2010

riving on the autobahn is a delightful experience for car lovers. And it could not get better than being behind the wheel of the newly launched 12-cylinder Audi A8 L W12 while zipping down the German highway to Austria. Audi’s new range of A8 L luxury cars magnificently embodies its motto and strapline, Vorsprung durch Technik (Progress through technology). The new Audi A8 L fleet excels in the three most important characteristics requisite for an automotive comfort, luxury and technology. Built to standards that excel what exists, the Audi A8 L range brings in a new era of automotive engineering. Designed to impress and perform, the Audi A8 L takes a fresh, new look at the way luxury, comfort and technology in the automotive arena. And Audi has proves that it is one manufacturer who is not afraid to rewrite the rules! The new Audi comes in five engine choices: 3.0 TDI, 3.0 TFSI, 4.2 FSI, 4.2 TDI and W12, with the latter being the top of the range. At the test drive organized by Audi in Munich for journalists from the Middle East, all five

variants were made available. But it was the W12 that I was after. A 6.3 litre engine with 500hp powerhouse ensconced in sheer luxury would surely be a dream to drive on the autobahn? The next couple of hours were going make my dream come true. The A8 fleet features large vehicles; 130 millimetres in extra length than the regular version to be exact. While the driver and front seat passenger has ample space to be seated extremely comfortably, the backseat passengers are pampered, to say the least. The A8 L offers almost-limousine legroom to please even the longest-limbed passengers, with even footrest for those who really want to be indulged. Inside the W12, the feeling of being in your own exclusive den decked with some striking features is inevitable. On the outside, the W12 has a stylish chrome grille and distinctive exhaust finishing that adds to the new Audi’s classy look. Our drive began from Munich and since it was the start of a weekend, the autobahn was pretty packed, but there were quite a few stretches where I got put the new luxury power-packed sedan to test.

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The elegant exterior design carries over into the interior of the Audi A8 L with its smooth lines. It is noticeably wider, more airy and more spacious than its predecessor

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November November 2010

A little pressure on the pedal was all it took to get this beauty racing down the autobahn. The W12 was soon ticking over at about 2,000 rpm. Maneuvering is just as easy, for the W12 senses your requirements and moves with amazing agility. The W12 hits 0-100/hr in 4.7 seconds, and what’s impressive is the smooth mode of acceleration. In fact I often had to check the speedometer to ensure I was maintaining the speed limit. For Audi, luxury is not associated with opulence. The German automaker prefers to keep its own style – elegant, classy and detailed. Attention to detail is one of Audi’s highlights and is clearly visible in just about every feature of the Audi. Inside the W12, if it feels like entering your world, then that’s what Audi wants you to experience. A cocoon of luxury and comfort, the interior of the car is serene and pleasantly rich. There are vast expanses of wood trim that are aesthetically fitted; buttery leather adds that extra plush feel and there is no way you cannot feel pampered. Though not really necessary in this part of the world, but was used by us after the weather became chilly in Salzburg

November 2010

on our return to Munich are heated rear seats. A few other features in the new Audi automotive include power sunroof, deluxe four-zone climate control and electric rear and side window blinds. Also in the luxe sedan are individual ventilation options for all seats and pneumatic massage functions with two selectable programs and three intensity levels. Audi sure knows how to pamper their customers. Though needless to say, space is ample in the Audi. Not just for the front and rear passengers, even with regard to storage. Our phones went right into the storage compartment underneath the front center armrest, which incidentally can also hold an iPod. Audi has fitted its new fleet with fantastic audio systems from Bang & Olufsen and we just couldn’t resist cranking up the music as we cruised at 160km/hr on our way to Salzburg. B&O indeed has done a good job inside the Audi! The German luxury carmaker has added another feather to its cap by becoming the first auto manufacturer to offer LAN Wi-Fi Hotspot to connect your laptop or PDA. A feature that I absolutely was gung-ho about is that the

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Luxury does not mean excess, but rather elegant, cultivated style. For Audi, luxury means selecting all materials carefully and lovingly processing them using a high degree of technical expertise

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November 2010

Navigation system uses Google Maps; this one is a winner for sure! Our wheeled beauty came with inbuilt tables for laptops that are stowed at the back of the front seats that make it convenient for use as work surface or a light lunch while travelling. There are also 10.2-inch LCD monitors built into the space behind the front seats making the W12 the ideal ride. In Salzburg, I got a chance to test drive the 4.2 litre V8, which is just as good, though the W12 remains my personal favourite. Zipping through the winding roads of Salzburg, the car felt powerful yet it was smooth, making for an effortless and enjoyable experience. The Quattro system in the A8L has rear-wheel torque bias and for a more sporty experience, you can shift to the sports rear differential option. Audi raises its own bar where safety is concerned. The A8L includes pre-safe system, which automatically brakes

November 2010

to avoid nose to tail collisions. Further safety features list include dual front airbags, separate front and rear side airbags, side-curtain airbags, front knee airbags, front active head restraints and electronic stability control. Another crucial feature is night-vision with pedestrian detection system. On our return from Salzburg to Munich, we were pampered to the hilt. Seated in sheer luxury in the back with a refreshing beverage and chocolates to savour, I had to ensure check myself from falling asleep. Recline the seats, engage the massage option , out down the foot rest and what you have is your own mobile chill-out zone. On a final note, the Audi A8 L is extremely impressive. Audi sure has raised the bar and is definitely going to peers tough competition. Luxury, style, technology and comfort have been seamlessly merged by the German automaker in the Audi A8 L. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hear it for Audi!

Automobilia

Bike

The new MV Agusta F4 was designed and developed with a single goal in mind - to be the best! The F4 meets this objective through high performance and class along with styling which sets the new standard in the world of supersport motorcycles ď ŽCrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me Report

he MV Agusta F4 defines beauty. The new F4 is not an evolution of the previous motorcycle, but it is a new project that has been studied down to the last nut and bolt, from the first to the last curve of the bodywork. No mass produced street motorcycle can boast as many accolades as the MV Agusta F4, which is the absolute reference for performance, speed and raw beauty. The F4 is the synthesis of Italian craftsmanship, no compromise design principles and the application of the most technologically advanced materials in a single motorcycle. In short, MV Agusta has surpassed perfection. The supersport bike is on the heritage of the previous model, while at the same time improving on all the technical and performance characteristics by increasing the already existing technical marvel. Geared for Power The engine, chassis and the swingarm are brand new. The reengineered design which has resulted in a motorcycle that is 4 cm narrower has a chassis that offers increased torsional rigidity while at the same time reducing the overall weight by 10 kg (22 lbs). The F4 is the absolute reference for the supersport category with its advanced technical solutions and its extraordinary performance. The chassis, which has been completely redesigned, optimised and incredibly lightened, improves the dynamic characteristics of the motorcycle in every situation, allowing a more effective ride on circuit

A Revolutionary Bike 72

November 2010

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No mass produced street motorcycle can boast as many accolades as the MV Agusta F4, which is the absolute reference for performance, speed and raw beauty

November 2010

as well as on the road. All of this was naturally matched with components of the highest level, selected to give the enthusiasts a supersports motorcycle able to satisfy even the most demanding customer. With its advanced technology and extraordinary performance, the F4 defines the new standard for supersport motorcycles. The new MV Agusta F4 represents excellence in terms of quality, technology, components and design. When form becomes beauty The design of the F4 is a revolution of form and function. It is now lower, sleeker and even more aggressive than the original, but with the unmistakable look of an MV Agusta. With the new MV Agusta F4, shape and function is mould together to create a pure moving work of art. The minutest care of every detail, the most demanding choice of materials, the accuracy in the allocation of every technical element

has resulted in an incredibly narrow motorcycle. No in line 4-cylinder motorcycle in the world can boast such a reduced frontal area which is comparable with the frontal area of a twin-cylinder motorcycle. The extended surfaces of the fairings (which have always characterised the F4) have tapered air outlets that improve the evacuation of warm air, the aerodynamic efficiency and still let you get a glimpse of the red vale cover of the radial-valve 4-cylinder engine. Even the mirrors contribute to the aerodynamic efficiency with a new shape and two small aerodynamic appendices that eliminate turbulence and help to protect the riderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoulders. The tail section is even sleeker, the windscreen is more penetrating and sharper, the size of the seat has been reduced, the tank is shorter, and the handlebars are wider and have been raised for an incredible drive control and comfort. The consequences of these advancements is an even more compact motorcycle

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The design of the F4 is a revolution of form and function. It is now lower, sleeker and even more aggressive than the original, but with the unmistakable look of an MV Agusta

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November 2010

while at the same time more comfortable, more effective and which integrates even more with the rider. The F4, just like every MV Agusta, adheres to the principle that design follows the necessity of function. Unmatched Performance The profound development that the bike was subject to ensures exceptional performance as well as a perfect marriage of throttle control and rear wheel traction. The crankshaft has been redesigned and the inertia has been increased by 50% compared to the previous engine. Also, the connecting rods have been completely redesigned. They are now lighter, and at the same time, stronger than the previous connecting rods. For the first time on a mass produced motorcycle, MV has integrated the new Marelli 7BM ECU to perfectly control all of the electronic systems of the F4. This new ECU controls the 8 fuel injectors in the engine management system, the variable length intake tracts as well as the exhaust control valve, the gear selection switch and the new MK II Traction Control algorithms along with the double EFI Sport and Rain maps. A high performance engine like the 4-cylinder MV engine needs to be cooled and lubricated to perfection. For this reason the oil circuit has been completely re-engineered. The oil pump is now more compact and more efficient, the water/oil exchanger leaves space for a new radiator which keeps under control the temperature of the lubricant, consequently reducing the working temperature of the engine to ensure the maximum performance and reliability. The 4 radial valves for each cylinder contribute to the optimal structure of the combustion chamber. The gear box is extractable as is the case in the most valuable racing motorcycles. The new mechanical slipper clutch ensures an optimal control of the engine brake when downshifting. Design Marvel The characteristic â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;organ pipeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; exhaust system has always been a distinctive element of the F4 and it will be such also in the new version, which however optimises the concept utilising one scheme 4-in-1 tuned with the

racing characteristics of the new engine. A new electronic valve in the exhaust system optimises the performance and contributes to the reduction of exhaust noise while at the same time maintaining the unmistakable sound of the 4-cylinder MV. This frame design has influenced a generation of frame designers which have continued to imitate the MV. The new F4 remains loyal to tradition and offers a similar tubular construction but it exceeds the originals characteristics in both rigidity and lightness. A complete redesign of each of the individual components, including the wall thickness and diameter of the tubes coupled with the cast side plate design, contributes to the reduced weight and increased torsional rigidity. The new chassis is narrower, shorter and lighter. The area of the steering stem has been completely revised and the side plates have been moved forward, this has allowed an optimal weight distribution (52% front, 48% rear). The repositioning of the rear swing arm pivot has enabled MV to improve the traction of the rear wheel without increasing the wheelbase. The steering stem continues to offer the possibility of regulating the inclination of the steering by rotating the inner element. The redesign of the rear swing arm assembly has drastically reduced the weight by 1,2 kg (2.65 lbs) while maintaining the same level of torsional rigidity. The front fork of the new F4 weighs an incredibly low 5 kg (11.02 lbs) which sets a new standard of low weight in the superbike class. The complete redesign of the hub of the rear wheel also contributes to the weight reduction and optimisation of mass centralisation. Superior Technology As every other technical feature of the F4, the suspension is also considered the best in class. They have been manufactured to specific MV standards and offer increased ride control, effectively connecting the tire contact information directly to the rider. The upside down Marzocchi fork with a tube diameter of 50 mm continues to contribute to the MV tradition of uncompromised stability. These forks

November 2010

are direct descendants of our championship winning race bikes and they offer adjustable spring preload, compression and rebound damping. The extremely light forged axle carrier has also been produced on solely for F4. The axle carrier utilizes a system quick release of the front wheel similar to the systems seen on endurance race bikes, recalling the solution first seen on the mythical F4 Serie Oro. The Brembo front system with radial monobloc callipers is without a doubt the best system on the market. On the F4 it is joined to a Nissin pump with integrated reservoir and produced to specific MV standards. The 320 mm diameter double floating steel disc of utilizes an extremely light flange and a reduced 5 mm thickness in order to reduce the inertia and unsprung weight to an absolute minimum. The rear brake system is produced by Nissin exclusively for MV with a 220 mm diameter stainless steel disc and a four piston calliper. Attention to Detail What characterises and distinguishes the MV Agusta F4 from the rest of the super sport motorcycles is the relentless attention paid to every single element and detail. The care taken when analysing every single detail is not only aesthetic, but it helps to contribute to the increase

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in performance, reduction in overall mass as well as maintaining the ultra high standard of fit and finish found only on MV Agusta’s. The optimization of the new F4 has put to effect every single component and aspect of the bike with a single goal - un-relentless pursuit of weight reduction. In some cases the results are easily identified, for example the fuel tank is visibly shorter, lower and more tapered than before. It has been produced in rotational nylon which has allowed it to reduce the weight of the tank itself by 1,2 Kg (2.64 lbs). The dashboard uses CAN line technology to reduce the wiring harness to a minimum, also contributing to the reduced overall mass of the motorcycle. The dashboard is completely digital and uses digital matrix technology which offers perfect integration and instant response from the digital data display. The dashboard is very light, it offers a tremendous amount of data including vehicle speed, engine rpm, gear map, Traction Control level and lap timer for use during track events. The optimisation of the project has also focused on secondary systems like the ignition key mechanism and the fuel cap. The key mechanism now incorporates an electronic immobiliser, makes it difficult to start the motorcycle without the owners key.

The care taken when analysing every single detail is not only aesthetic, but it helps to contribute to the increase in performance, reduction in overall mass as well as maintaining the ultra high standard of fit and finish found only on MV Agusta’s

November 2010

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

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

Art & Design

Canvas w Author November 2010

Art & Design

Canvas

Karen’s Art

Karen Carpenter

Figurative art is what Karen Carpenter is best at. She has created bold artworks based on Omani culture and traditions and is now working on creating unique artworks using Arabic scriptures Script: Sudipta Dasgupta

igurative sketches, vibrant colours and bold subjects are what best describe Karen’s art. Unlike her bold art forms, Carpenter represents feminine elegance and a friendly personality. An UK based artist, Carpenter visits Oman on a daily basis and has been doing artworks on commission for the past few years. She was currently in Oman to plan her future exhibition that will be held in Oman next year as a tribute to the 40th Anniversary of the blessed renaissance under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. Carpenter is known for breaking the boundaries and creating bold and striking figures. Her themes are derived from traditional and cultural elements and she is currently focusing on using Arabic scripts onto her artworks. Carpenter explains her style of art as well as life as an artist over coffee.

November 2010

Better Late Than Never I have always loved to draw and paint on my own. It has always been a passion to create something artistic and beautiful. I received a formal training in art not until my forties. It was a lot of hardwork and at times I felt like giving it all up. But I am extremely pleased with myself on pursuing it. While I was completing my adult education, my mentor recognised my talent and encouraged me to join an art college. So that is how it all started … First Strokes I started with sketching things on the paper while studying in West Surrey College of Art & Design which was instantly recognised by people; they wanted to buy my art which was quite an honour. I flew down to Oman after completing my degree back in the summer of 1996 because my husband worked here as an architect. With his

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Karen is known for breaking the boundaries and creating bold and striking figures. Her themes are derived from traditional and cultural elements and she is currently focusing on using Arabic scripts onto her artworks encouragement and support I finally had my first exhibition held within three months of arriving in Oman. In Touch with Art I did not want to pursue my art education through a distance learning programme which is why I opted to stay back in London while my husband was working here in Oman. I believe it is always good to learn among fellow artists as there is constant learning process involved. You keep exchanging ideas, meet new people, attend lectures of top established artists and basically get influenced by your surroundings. The experience I gathered while studying in London was huge and of prime importance, it helped me to think and create better. Importance of Education I am extremely pleased to have a formal degree as it has given me immense confidence to do the kind of work I do today. I want people to have that confidence in my art and give me the credit of having a certain standard in my artwork which is eventually good for one’s self esteem. It again depends on each person as there are lots of famous

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artists who do not have formal education and are still very successful. Canvas Speak Some of my canvasses comprise of MDF boards which brings out a striking texture to my kind of art. Due to its bumpy surface, the art drawn on the MDF board looks lifelike. It also helps me to be fierce and bold in my creations. Inspiring Work Some of the artists whose work I really admire are, amongst others, Paula Rego and Lucian Freud (both now in their seventies but still producing wonderful work), Euan Uglow and R B Kitaj, the German Expressionists, Gauguin, Van Gogh, the Fauves (Matisse, Derain, Vlaminck etc) and Kathe Kolvitz. Most of the inspiration comes from the museums I visit when in England. Anything can inspire me, something that suddenly catches my eye, usually a bit quirky or out of the ordinary, or a touch of local culture and tradition or an amazing colour. November November2010 2010

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Some of the artists whose work I really admire are, amongst others, Paula Rego and Lucian Freud (both now in their seventies but still producing wonderful work)

November 2010

My Other Interests I love going to the theatre, travelling, reading, spending time with my friends, being with my children and grandchildren, aerobics classes, walking and running on the beach with my dog, learning to speak and write Arabic, and shopping. My Art, My Style My kind of art is usually figurative which does not mean that my drawings are just figures but it is more lifelike drawings. My drawings are not illustrative because I believe they are only photographic representations. I mostly do human forms because I like the flow of fabric, I love movements basically. Colours and People I prefer working with basic prime colours which are bright and vibrant like Red, Blue and Yellow. I either do black and white art or use bright colours to create my artworks. I source my materials from all over the globe which are of very high quality. I also carry my camera with me and I take photographs of people and places to get ideas and also ask people to pose for me. Art in Oman The Omani art scene is very exciting indeed. The locals have some very imaginative and different kind of art to offer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; modern and lovely! I love the colours that Hassan Meer uses which comes from their vibrant culture and that is why I use strong colours too. Oman is such a beautiful and picturesque place that it is difficult not to have any representation of it on your art.

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My drawings are not illustrative because I believe they are only photographic representations. I mostly do human forms because I like the flow of fabric, I love movements basically

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November 2010

Art & Design

Author

A Man of Words

Tim Mackintosh Smith

Tim Mackintosh Smith is a prize winning author and a broadcaster who travels around the world following the footsteps of the famed 14th century Moroccan traveller, Ibn Battutah. Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission in the last 15 years has been to revive the past and the present through his travel books and is popularly known as an Arabist, Traveller and Writer ď ŽScript: Sudipta Dasgupta

November 2010

im Mackintosh Smith is no ordinary author or traveller. On meeting Smith, his charismatic personality and worldly knowledge catches your attention. A British but Yemen based celebrated author and traveller, Smith has several books to his credit and has been featured in a documentary film ‘The English Sheik and the Yemeni Gentleman’. Currently he can be watched on a BBC documentary series recreating the experience of tracing Ibn Battutah’s fourteenth century travels into the present day. He has also been successful in becoming celebrated among the literati of Europe and the Americas. Smith writes with humour and a sense of wonder, dotting them with poetry and proverbs. Smith was in town recently to talk about his latest book, ‘Landfalls: On the edge of Islam with Ibn Battutah’ at the Historical Association of Oman. After ‘Travels with a Tangerine’ and ‘The Hall of a Thousand Columns,’ here is the third volume in the author’s passionate pursuit of the Ibn Batuttah. The book describes Smith’s travels through remote tropical islands, torrid Indian Ocean ports, and dusty towns on the shores of the Saharan sand-sea. His itinerary across time and space leads from Zanzibar to the Alhambra (via the Maldives, Sri Lanka, China, Mauritania, and Guinea) and to a climactic conclusion to his quest for Ibn Battutah - a man who spent his days with saints and sultans and his nights with an intercontinental string of slave-concubines. Tim’s journey is a search for survivals from Ibn Battutah’s world - -material, human, spiritual and much more! Why do you consider Ibn Battutah to be one of the greatest travellers and how inspiring was he? I call him the greatest traveller even before apes walked

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Currently he can be watched on a BBC documentary series recreating the experience of tracing Ibn Battutah’s fourteenth century travels into the present day

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on their two feet in the human history and the greatest traveller of the pre-mechanical age even before people actually travelled in steam ships and trains because he is tremendously inspiring and when he returned from all his travels from far and wide he wrote it all down. There were other travellers too but no one wrote it down like he did. In doing so he left behind this inspiring book and as soon as I read the book I too got the same itchy feet. I started reading his book from where he had written about Yemen and in it he had mentioned about the Sultan of Yemen who I knew well. An instant feeling of temporal vertigo (dizziness caused by time) is what I felt. It was like you are standing on an edge of the cliff and looking down and then you can jump into the past. I have been looking for more moments like these and that is why I travel in search of the past and present links. You are known as an Arabist, Traveller and Writer – explain why Arabist? The reason I call myself an Arabist is because I have studied Arabic and am proficient in the language. I am able to translate the Arabic language as well as write Arabic. I don’t like calling myself an Orientalist because it portrays being an imperialist and all that goes with it. I like to distance myself from that sort of thing as I consider myself as a post imperialist traveller. Please briefly describe your journeys in the footsteps of Ibn Battuttah, the 14th century adventurer who travelled for 29 years and 75,000 miles from Morocco to China? So far I have followed Ibn Battutah from Tangier almost to the southern tip of India via Egypt, the Levant, Arabia, Turkey and the Crimea with a little change in the course of travel of course! I followed Ibn Battutah’s Indian travels very closely and they took me

November 2010

to some really out-of-the-way places. My latest book is my travels through the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Sumatra, Vietnam and China. The journeys have had many high points, lots of them, but I could single out the Kuria Muria Islands off Oman which was spectacular. Can you tell us little about Ibn Battutah and how you got fascinated by him to travel the world? In 1325, shortly after the end of the crusades a young Moroccon Muslim called Ibn Battutah set out on a pilgrimage to Mecca. It was going to become an odyssey from one end of the known world to the other. In all he travelled 75 thousand miles, three times the distance Marco Polo covered and along the way he met magicians, holy men, fire eaters and other travellers from across three continents - he was a scholar, mystic, businessman and a warrior. He was imprisoned by eccentric Sultans, married ten times and had countless wives and when he got home after 29 years, he wrote it all down. Nearly 700 years later I discovered his travelogue and was blown away. The book was a kaleidoscopic description of the Muslim world which I could still see around me. It was then that I followed the footsteps of Ibn Battuta and started travelling and writing 15 years back.

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Trail-breaking suggests exploration, and I’m no explorer. I’m a traveller, and travellers inevitably follow in their predecessors’ footsteps whether consciously or not

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Why follow Ibn Battutah’s footsteps? Trail-breaking suggests exploration, and I’m no explorer. I’m a traveller, and travellers inevitably follow in their predecessors’ footsteps whether consciously or not. I did it consciously, and in the footsteps of the man I think is the greatest traveller ever. Why did you choose to settle down in Yemen? It happened partly because my late father was a great reader of travel books and he was a big fan of this English woman who travelled in Yemen called Freya Stark. She took some brilliant photographs of 1930s in her book and I was instantly inspired by these books and photographs when I was small and always wanted to go to Yemen. So that was the place I felt I had to go to, to learn and speak Arabic and then of course you know its love at first sight. Tell us about your first book and how it changed your life? Edna O Brian, a famous Irish novelist gave me that extra push to start writing books. When I showed her around Yemen, she told me that it was a crime to live in Sana’a and not write. And so I wrote about Sana’a in a book called Yemen ‘Travels in Dictionary Land’ and it won one of the most important prizes for travel writing - The Thomas Cook Travel Book Award. The money was very helpful and thereafter I was quite inspired to carry on. What has been one of your most memorable places of travel?

The Kuria Muria Islands in Oman are just one of those places... the islands have their own obvious mystique, and these are some of the least visited (by outsiders) and most intriguingly named. Another high point has to be visiting the very definite site of the sati ceremony Ibn Battutah saw in Madhya Pradesh. Other than Ibn Battutah’s travel stories, what inspires you to write? I get inspired by paintings of oriental subjects – the Arab world, souks and mosques and when I eventually went to college I studied Arabic so it all fell in place at that time. Have you had to face any challenges while travelling to different parts of the world? I don’t travel in my official capacity. I am just a normal traveller and I am writing about the past. Some countries like Syria for example had some security concerns and restrictions in terms of what I wrote and mentioned in the book. Other than that I haven’t experienced anything extreme yet! What is your next destination? I am doing all sorts of things to make some money. It is an expensive hobby. One of the things that I will be doing is following Ibn Battutah into his life which we know nothing of. I will have to create or make up something and write a book on fiction. Honestly speaking I am in love with his spirit and I will not give up travelling.

November 2010

Gourmet & Hospitality

Culinaire w Ambrosia November 2010

Gourmet

Culinaire

Celebration Galore Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Muscat recently celebrated its 25th Anniversary with the ‘Festival of Senses’ which received an overwhelming response from guests and food aficionados Crème de la Crème Report

November 2010

he Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Muscat likes to live up to its reputation by offering patrons an unforgettable and unmatched experience. With its ongoing 25th anniversary celebrations, the experience for many has been unique till now. Since its reopening, the hotel has consistently been a showcase of exclusivity in all its form. The hotel recently witnessed a unique month long celebration called the ‘Festival of Senses’ which was part of the larger celebrations along with several other events like the hosting of the prestigious Chaines de Rottiseur dinner held during the first half of this year and a gala Christmas and New Year’s celebration which is due to be held next month. Team Crème de la Crème finds out more on how the culinary team of Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Muscat was able to offer patrons an exclusive dining affair where Rocco Bova, Food & Beverage Director and Jean-Luc Amann, Executive Chef share their experience. How did the idea come about in the first place? Bova - We wanted to do something special since last year and after several brainstorming sessions, we as a team decided to have the ‘Festival of the Senses’ which meant showcasing our own in-house chefs rather than flying down guest chefs from abroad. It was from then that we started evolving ourselves into offering unique delights to our patrons. Since food is increasingly becoming an element of entertainment and surprises in the lives of people, they don’t go out for just a meal but they dine out for an experience. Keeping that fact in mind, we decided on having something extravagant like this.

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With its ongoing 25th anniversary celebrations, the experience for many has been unique till now. Since its reopening, the hotel has consistently been a showcase of exclusivity in all its form

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November 2010

Rocco Bova - Food & Beverage Director

Jean-Luc Amann - Executive Chef

Amann – Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Muscat boasts of having a prominent line up of chefs from different countries, nationalities and talent. We haven’t really exploited that fact which is why we thought of celebrating culinary delicacies prepared by our own chefs. How enriching was it for the chefs at Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Muscat? Bova – Most of the chefs who are currently working with us are in some way or the other ambassadors of Oman because many of them haven’t even been to this part of the world before, yet they create some amazing culinary delicacies and their source of inspiration is the natural surroundings of Oman. Amann – Coming back to the Festival of Senses, it has been a huge experience for my team. Each and everyone was involved in the preparation of the ‘Festival of Senses.’ What were the major highlights of the event? Bova – We had a grand opening to the entire event with Shannon Bennet doing his magic with food. He was a major part of the gala ceremony of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the hotel. He was one of the star during the entire event because every dinner with him was fully booked during the weekends as well as the cooking classes were fully booked too. It was a fantastic opening to the entire event. During the second week of the event we took the opportunity to introduce a new menu at the Beach Pavilion which was well received by our guests as they got to taste some rather unique sea food dishes. During the last weekend, we also had the opportunity to not just celebrate Chinese food at our restaurant China Mood but we got to celebrate our new chef who joined us three months ago. So, all in all it was not just a celebration of our food but also an occasion to honour our culinary team 92

November 2010

and all the people who were involved in the entire process. We also had this amazing Italian pastry chef who specialises in chocolates. He emphasised on the fact how beautiful Oman is and how it inspired him to create something extraordinary. It was all evident from what we got to taste and see. His culinary classes were another major highlight to the entire event. This week we will be treated by Executive Chef Jean Luc Amann who will be representing Germany for the Oktoberfest. He will have the opportunity to delight all of us with some new activities on the buffet, the cooking classes and many more things. What is the kind of response you received from the entire event? Amann – Firstly I would like to mention that the team at Al Bustan showed a lot of determination in making this event a huge success. There was lot of teamwork involved and everybody had to bring out their best. So, it was lot of hardwork from our point of view but like I mentioned before, it was a fantastic opportunity for all of us and everything was successfully carried out. Bova - The response has been amazing and it was all worth it. Our chefs were a novelty. It was something that had never been done before in this hotel. Everybody is very excited to wait and watch what is in store next. As we receive more feedback from other people, we can make our next project even more interesting and exciting for people next year. Can you give us a little idea of your future plans? Bova – Guests will get to witness the culmination to the anniversary celebrations next month during Christmas and New Year’s about which you will get to know soon. Since we like to surprise, I will not disclose anything right now.

Gourmet

Ambrosia

A hint of truffle Truffle oil is increasingly becoming a popular ingredient in cooking. The earthy and robust flavour enhancing oil is the perfect tool to add a touch of pizzazz to dishes ď ŽScript: Anne Kurian

ruffles are known for their exotic, earthy taste. A variety of wild mushrooms, truffles grow mostly in Europe and are also rare to find. As a result, truffles are expensive and are considered to be precious in the culinary world. An off-shoot of truffles, so to say, is the truffle oil. The oil emanates the same earthy, robust aroma although the taste is not as strong. An exotic variety of oil, truffle oil is used in cooking to add a touch of pizzazz. Truffle oil brings flair to just about any dish that it is added to. Chefs all over the world now use truffle oil to create fascinating dishes and this phenomenon is not exclusive to restaurants. Truffle oil has found its way into many kitchens around the world of people who love gourmet food and add a dash of panache to their cooking. Although made with truffles, the oil is not made entirely from the mushroom. Truffle oil is made by placing truffles in olive oil and let the flavour seep in. In traditional gourmet cooking in France and Italy, where truffles are a popular ingredient, chefs make their own truffle oil. White or black

November 2010

truffles are sliced very thin and placed in jars or bottles of the purest olive oil. The earthy, rich flavors of the truffles infuse the olive oil and lend it the special taste purists know as truffle oil. The most popular truffle oil is created is from white truffles. Many a time, olive oils are also infused with synthetically created truffle essence. An additive called 2.4-dithiapentane can create a truffle-like flavour in olive oil. Many commercial restaurants even use this inexpensive substitute, since the average diner cannot tell the difference between gourmet truffle oil and olive oil flavored with 2.4-dithiapentane. Not all truffle oils are created alike. Real truffle oils that are actually flavoured by the fungi themselves are done so with black or white truffles; a quick check of the label can let you know if it is real or made with truffle essence. Most chefs prefer the taste of white truffle oil, claiming it has a milder, earthier, and more complex flavor than black truffle oils. For many people, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simply a matter of

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White or black truffles are sliced very thin and placed in jars or bottles of the purest olive oil. The earthy, rich flavors of the truffles infuse the olive oil and lend it the special taste purists know as truffle oil

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preference. And while purists prefer gourmet white truffle oils made with real truffles, the average person often cannot tell the difference between flavoured olive oils and actual truffle oil. Truffle oil is used more for flavouring or enhancing the taste of a dish. Truffle oil is best used on cold dishes such as salads, or added at the end of cooking to enhance flavor. It should never be used to fry foods, as the delicate truffletaste doesn’t last through high heat. Truffle oil works well with foods that can handle a strong flavor. Dressings and vinaigrettes for dishes can also be made using truffle oil.Truffle oil pairs well with vegetables such as asparagus and potatoes. A dash of truffle oil in mashed potatoes adds a tastalising taste that’s divine. Another popular method of using truffle oil is to season eggs at the end of cooking so that the heat does not impair the flavour of the oil. Truffle oils are also used to enhance the taste of various breads and pasta dishes. Truffle oil should ideally be used sparingly; less is more. If used in excess, the taste of truffles will completely overpower the dish. The flavour should be in the background as an enhancer, not in the forefront of the dish. Genuine truffle oil can be bought at almost all gourmet food stores. Do check the label for words like ‘truffle essence’ or ‘synthetic’ as these would let you know what is genuine and what is not. Truffle oil should be stored in a dark, closed container, preferably the refrigerator. But truffle oil cannot be stored for long as it tends to spoil quickly.

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An exotic variety of oil, truffle oil is used in cooking to add a touch of pizzazz. Truffle oil brings flair to just about ay dish that it is added to

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November 2010

Travel & Lifestyle

Destination w Lounge November 2010

Travel & Lifestyle

Destination

Nothing prepares you for one of the most fascinating countries in the Arab world as much as a trip to Jordan. A first-hand report of the beautiful kingdom that has something for just about every traveller Script: Anne Kurian

uch has been written about the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, especially after Petra was chosen as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Yet nothing prepares you for the incredible sights and sounds that the country has to offer until you visit. The country tugs at your heart right from the moment you catch a glimpse of the terrain from the airplane – red mountains, pockets of green, barren lands…I couldn’t wait to get out and explore the country as much as possible during the five-day visit organised by Jordan Tourism Board. In and around Amman A fascinating and growing country, Jordan is on the path of development in a quicker and substantial manner. The first instance of this is the ongoing expansion work at Queen Alia International Airport, the main hub for all airlines arriving in and departing from Jordan. The increased passenger traffic into Jordan is one of the important factors

The Magical Kingdom 98

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for the expansion work. The country is also poised to grow as a financial and trade hub over the next few years, thereby necessitating development in all major areas. At the airport we were received by Hatem Zaal Khalil, a representative from Jordan Tourism Board who was also our guide during the five day trip. Although the itinerary sent to us listed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Check-In to Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on arriving at Amman, we decided to explore the city before heading to The Kempinski, our home for the next two days. Madaba was our first city of call. Renowned for its Byzantine mosaics, Madaba is a charming and quiet town. A visit to the town is not complete without a trip to one a arts and crafts centre where handicrafts, souvenirs, Dead Sea products, antiques, silver jewellery and of course, mosaic artifacts are sold, that are also made at the venue. A very interesting variety of artifacts that caught my eye at the

centre are Ostrich eggs inlaid with tiny mosaic chips that form intricate designs. From there, we were off to Mount Nebo, the important historical site where Moses is believed to be buried. Announced as one of the pilgrimage sites by John Paul II, Mount Nebo attracts hordes of travellers every year. Even though at a considerable distance, the sight of Jerusalem was an overwhelming sight. The excavated artifacts and mosaic floorings on display at Mount Nebo are fascinating. The final stop before lunch was St. George Church in Madaba, which is home to one of the intrinsic mosaic maps to be ever found. The Greek Orthodox church is built over the an ancient Byzantine church and the original mosaic map that covered Lebanon to Jordan is believed to be far bigger than what is present now. Studies suggest that the map was probably created to help pilgrims travelling from

November 2010

one holy place to another. The day we visited, Madaba was decked up in to welcome King Abdullah, the ruler of Jordan who was visiting the town the following day. After a hearty meal of fresh vegetables, grilled meat and Lebanese delicacies, a favourite cuisine of many in Jordan, we were dropped off at Kempinski Amman to relax for the rest of the day. Well, that wasn’t exactly what we wanted to do. In an hour or so, a fellow journalist from Oman and I were off to explore the city by foot. The bustling metropolis is a invigorating mix of the old and new; ancient and modern. After walking a good few kilometers around the hotel, we decided to hit one of popular malls in Amman – Mecca Mall. A few Jordanian dinars poorer, shopping bags to heave and a quick meal later, we were back at the hotel for a much deserved good night’s rest. The next day we were driven to a few kilometers north of Amman, to Jerash that boasts of one of the world’s largest and awe-inspiring ancient sites of Roman architecture outside Italy. The city that prospered under the rule of Emperor Pompey is home to some of most well-preserved Roman ruins that have been discovered. But before heading out to see the famous Roman ruins, we were treated to a spectacular show – the Roman

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Army and Chariot Experience (RACE). A setting that is reminiscent of the ancient Roman chariot races and fights or even the Oscar-winning Ben-Hur, the show at the hippodrome is nothing short of a journey through history. What unfolded at the hippodrome was a re-enactment of the Roman Army’s war tactics, gladiator fights and Chariot race. A trip down Roman history lane later, we were off to the ruins just a few metres away. Jerash, also known as Gerasa, was conquered by Alexander the Great during the 4th century but the town flourished under the leadership of Roman ruler Pompey. Many centuries, rulers and an earthquake later, the city was buried under sand. This natural occurrence has led to the ruins being so wellpreserved. The stone pathways, columns, temples, baths, two church complexes, an amphitheatre and other ruins from the Graeco-Roman period are awe-inspiring. A sumptuous lunch later, we were given a quick tour of Downtown Amman and the Citadel. Built on top of Jabal al-Qala’a, the Citadel is home to remains from Roman, Byzantine and Islamic period. Ruins of a temple dedicated to Hercules can be found here; and for history buffs, the Jordan Archaeological Museum just a few metres away is a must-visit. Across Jabal al-Qala’a lies the famous Roman Theatre. It was pretty late in the evening when we got back

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A 13th century shrine, built by the Mameluk Sultan Al Nasir Mohammad to commemorate the death of Aaron, the brother of Moses, can be seen on top of Mount Aaron in the Sharah range

to Amman, so sadly we had to skip the visit to the theatre. Dinner that night was at Kan Zamaan, a restored walled village that has been transformed into a restaurant and handicrafts centre where shops sell everything from art to silver jewellery to colourful sand-filled bottles and other handmade products. A destination by itself, Kan Zamaan is a great place to relax with the hubbly-bubbly or cups of kahwa after dinner. A journey - Petra and Wadi Rum The next morning we were off to Petra, the most anticipated part of the journey for me. A long drive later, we arrived at Wadi Musa, from where the journey of Petra begins. Motor vehicles are not allowed inside the city of Petra and the only means of transport are donkeys or horses or horse-drawn carriages. But most people opt to walk the few kilometers as it is quite a pleasant one, especially when the temperature is not unbearable. Walking also ensures that you get to know all that you want to about the ancient city of Petra from the guide who can be you hired at the Visitor’s Centre where you pick up maps, batteries or even souvenirs on your way back. We had an interesting guide who belonged to the Bedouin tribe and was very wellversed in English. Ditching the horse-ride that was included in our tour of Petra, we began our trek on the dusty cobbled path towards As Siq, the entrance to the ancient city. From As Siq, it’s a narrow chasm you walk through. The sheer beauty of the rocks that have been cut through to create this pathway is breathtaking. The Nabataean kingdom was rich and prosperous during its heydays and thus attracted the Romans who incorporated the city to their newly formed Province of Arabia. On the way we passed tombs built into the rocks. The tombs are mostly of kings, queens and family members of the Nabataean kingdom. A single tomb in some instances has been used to bury up to eight people. Much of the tombs are empty and can be entered into as they are mostly dug as caverns into the mountains. There are also niches At the end of the chasm is the sight that without fail will take even the most seasoned traveller’s breath away. For this is where the incredible image that is seen on all references to

Petra comes alive – the Treasury or Al Khazneh. To repeat what I wrote before, nothing prepares you for the marvel in rock. The awe-inspiring edifice was built as temple and has a large urn right at the top which local legends proclaim contain gold; thus the building was given its name. Whether there really is gold or not, no one would know as the building is off-limits to visitors. From there we continued our journey that would take us to the museum at the end of the route. We passed the ruins of an ancient Roman theatre, quite a large one that too. On the way, there are many silver and jewellery sellers with enticing wares. A little further and a good climb up a number of rocky stairs are the Royal Tombs – Urn, Silk, Corinthian and Palace tombs as they are known. These intricately designed tombs are visible from the pathway and we decided to forgo the climb as time was short. Further down the path, we passed the Great Temple (whether it was a temple or a council building is still under debate) and temples of Al Uzza and Dushares before reaching the museum. At the museum, there are excavated ruins from the Nabataean period. Famished and a wee bit tired from the walk, we decided to head back. But the walk back seemed arduous and so we opted for ride back on donkeys; quite a thrilling journey, I must say! The next two days of our trip were to be spent in Aqaba, so after lunch we headed to our destination. On the way, Hatem took us on a quick drive through the famed Wadi Rum, where Lawrence of Arabia was picturised. The mesmerising desertscape is a world of its own and spending a day or two in one of the desert camps would be a great way to experience Wadi Rum.

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A jaunt in Aqaba We checked into Movenpick Aqaba that night, a beautiful city resort with its own beach and a sprawling property that is split across both sides of the road yet connected by an overbridge. The next morning what followed was a tour of the hotel, a property that I have fallen in love with for its cuisines, pools, beach and of course, service. Just across the hotel are the ruins of the Islamic city of Ayla, which is believed to have been built in 650 AD and later discovered 1986 through excavation. Up next was a meeting with the officials at ASEZA – Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority. Set up the government of Jordan, ASEZA is an initiative to develop the economic potential of Aqaba that would turn the city into a prospective business and leisure destination. The authority is also keen to make Aqaba a quality destination and work is on in full swing to ensure that the city caters to the visitors. The rest of the day was spent sightseeing, visiting a museum that had relics from Roman period, shopping and relaxing. Another major tourist attraction in the city is the Aqaba Castle. Aqaba incidentally is a great place to shop for electronic goods as it is tax free. The river and the sea The last day of our trip included a visit to the Jesus’s Baptism site by Jordan River and the famed Dead Sea. A short ride to the site from the place where all cars visiting the area park, we were dropped off in an open bus at the spot from where we were to walk to our destination. On the way, through a clearing in the jungle of Jordan we passed the

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ruins of the church of John the Baptist as well as those of few other churches. A little ahead, just opposite the entrance to the Baptism site is a new Orthodox Church dedicated to John the Baptist. The Baptism site where Jesus Christ is belived to have been baptised attracts hordes of tourists and pilgrims from across the globe. Many believers collect water from the river to take back with them. Baptisms are also held at this site. With just hours left to board our flight back to Muscat, we were soon back on the road headed to Movenpick Dead Sea. A sumptuous lunch later, we descended the steps of the hotel to the beach to experience the Dead Sea. This huge water body is believed to be rich in minerals and salts, thus giving its water and mud curative as well as therapeutic qualities. And thanks to the super high content of salts in the water, everyone can float on the Dead Sea. Yes, we did too and it was quite exciting. The Dead Sea adventure over, we hit Zara Spa, Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea’s well-known spa. What ensued was a 45 minute Dead Sea mud pack treatment that helps to relives tension from the joints, improve skin texture and soften the skin. A soothing treatment and dinner later we were back at the airport to board Royal Jordanian Airlines back to our homes. To sum it up, Jordan is a mesmerising country. There truly is something for every visitor to Jordan, be it history, culture, desert camping, beaches or basking in sheer luxury. And what makes this places all the more special are its people. Friendly and ever-helpful, the hospitality of Jordanians is heartwarming. A must-visit for every intrepid traveller out there!

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Fall of Giants

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Ken Follett

all of Giants, the first title in the Century trilogy by Ken Follett, was launched a fortnight ago and shot to the top of the New York Times’ list of fiction bestsellers on its first day. This lends credence to the belief that the 61-year-old British author, who has been active on the literary scene for over three decades, is a master in the genre of historical fiction. It is a tale of the relationships between members of five families, each hailing from a different country. It is set against the backdrop of two events that took place in the 20th century and went on to change the course of world history forever – World War I and the Russian Revolution. The protagonists are the Welsh brother-sister duo of Billy and Ethel Williams; Gus Dewar from the United States; the Russian siblings Grigori and Lev Pishkov; the British aristocrat Lady Maud Fitzherbert and the German spy Walter von Ulrich. Billy is a teenaged miner and Ethel is employed as a housekeeper at the Fitzherberts’ residence in London. Lady Fitzherbert is von Ulrich’s ladylove. Von Ulrich works at his country’s embassy in London.

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Amidst the complex web of seamlessly interrelated back stories that make this novel a sure shot potboiler, we also notice the corridors of power in London, St. Petersburg and Washington, DC becoming hotbeds of intriguing activity

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Dewar, who is nursing a broken heart, is a student of law and gets a job at the White House. The rapidly-deteriorating relations between the United States and Russia put paid to the Pushkov brothers’ plans to immigrate to the United States. Amidst the complex web of seamlessly interrelated back stories that make this novel a sure shot potboiler, we also notice the corridors of power in London, St. Petersburg and Washington, DC becoming hotbeds of intriguing activity; after all, Follett has the burgeoning reputation of being a prolific writer of thrillers as well. The book was simultaneously published in sixteen countries spanning five continents, the only exception being Asia.

Obama’s Wars

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Bob Woodward

ob Woodward wrote Obama’s Wars, a tome on Barack Obama, to dispel the myth that was popularly believed to be true, at least until the beginning of the US leader’s term: that he ran for president to go to war. Afghanistan and Iraq may have enjoyed pride of place on his predecessor George W. Bush’s list of priorities, but when Obama – a senator who represented the state of Illinois – came to the White House in 2009, the crackdown on terror in Asia was not the first item on his to-do list. Washington, DC in particular and the United States in general obviously voted for a change in the administration, because they believed that the new man at the helm of affairs would create a more favourable impression about the country in the minds of political commentators and sections of the general public alike. To be fair to Obama, he wanted to draw up a blueprint which would enable the US government to accomplish more in the field of healthcare than on the battlefield. He assured them, with a catchphrase comprising three

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To be fair to Obama, he wanted to draw up a blueprint which would enable the US government to accomplish more in the field of healthcare than on the battlefield

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little words that he could – but the critics were eagerly awaiting his occupation of the White House, so that they could wage a war of words against him. After all, Obama may try to stick his head into the sand like an ostrich does, but he cannot escape the bitter truth – that the United States is involved in wars they have a rather bright chance of losing. If the inevitable happens, not only will the nation’s reputation take a severe beating, but Obama’s as well – he will forever be remembered as the president who was unable to make up his mind. That’s bad enough, but not if one were to replace ‘the president’ with ‘Bush’s successor’.

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Fashion w Gala w View w Gallery November 2010

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Tetsuya Mizutani

Tetsuya Mizutaniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fresh, feminine creations from the traditional Kimono costume have proved to be a hit among celebrities and artists for whom he often designs stage costumes. This up-andcoming designer seems set for big things ď ŽScript: Sudipta Dasgupta

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rue to its nature, Kimono dresses have always been unique and are a cultural heritage of Japan which has had a reputation of being precious and prized for its craftsmanship. Tetsuya Mizutani, a dynamic and young Japanese designer used his aesthetic sensibility to incorporate the ever so traditional costume of Kimono into evening gowns, wedding dresses and stage costumes and produce a new line of fashion trend which was showcased in a scintillating fashion show last month in Oman. Mizutani is known for his contemporary and innovative styles and believes that “the true value of the dress is determined by the sincere dedication of the couturier for his clients,” he pays great attention to the detail of his design so that his creations look stunning from every angle and in any motion. He first started drawing rough sketches while in school and then later pursued it as a career option in college. Today, more than a career it is a passion that he follows and is successful in infusing innovative ideas into his fabrics.

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He first started drawing rough sketches while in school and then later pursued it as a career option in college. Today, more than a career it is a passion that he follows and is successful in infusing innovative ideas into his fabrics

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Today, Mizutani’s designs have found an enthusiastic audience within celebrities and artists and he is constantly reinventing himself to come up with newer and contemporary styles.

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Mizutani was in town last month where he made his debut at the Japanese Elegance in Muscat – The Beauty of Kimono fashion show which was held as a befitting tribute to the 40th Anniversary of the blessed renaissance under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, contributing to harmonious Oman-Japan relations. Held at the Afrah Ballroom in Grand Hyatt and under the patronage of HH Sayyida Dr. Mona bint Fahad Al-Said, the evening witnessed women A-listers from around town who were left mesmerised by Mizutani’s eclectic designs. Speaking about eclectic designs, the young designer is always inspired by Japan’s four seasons, namely spring, summer, autumn and winter which he creatively infused in his current collection. Not only that, he had visited Oman earlier this year to study the local fashion trends and surroundings which helped him to create a stunning line up of 40 dresses exclusively for this event comprising of European style evening gowns, Arabic jalabiyas and abayas, all made with fine kimono fabric. The idea was conceptualised by the Embassy of Japan which was further given shape by Bank Muscat’s active participation in the event. The idea was not only to introduce Japanese concept of beauty and elegance to Omani ladies who, like their Japanese counterparts appreciate traditional values in their fashion and lifestyle but this fashion show was held to inspire young Omani talents in the fashion industry and promote cultural ties between the two nations.

Speaking about inspiration Mizutani says, “Firstly, Oman is a beautiful country of contrasts. Most of my inspiration comes from the natural surrounding and I believe Oman has some of the most picturesque setting. Secondly, the culture and traditions are some way similar to ours in Japan and it has been an honour to present my collection here. Colours play a huge role in my collection. I love to use rich and vibrant colours just like the locals do here and in some way I think I have been able to showcase that element through my collection.” The designer was accompanied by an entourage of artistic talents including a ravishing young female vocalist Madoka who added that extra theatrical effect to the entire event. Her claim to fame was in the year 2005 when Madoka released her first album produced by Ray Parker Jr. and Bobby Watson, a former member of Chaka Khan and Rufus who produced Janet Jackson’s debut album. Based in Tokyo, Madoka is actively involved in the Japanese music scene as song writer, vocalist and radio personality. Adding to that, an accomplished and highly creative stage director was flown down from Japan to direct the entire show. “A fashion show is not about presenting a dress on stage, it is a complete art in itself. It should be a theatrical art in itself that will keep the audience mesmerised. They should sit back and enjoy the entire show,” says Mizutani. The models not only donned Mizutani’s dress collection but were also styled with the designer’s stylish accessory collection all made with fine kimono fabric

Tetsuya Mizutani with Madoka

as well. Mizutani’s other hobbies include driving and appreciating art from which most of his designs are influenced. Speaking about forthcoming projects Mizutani says, “My next collection is inspired from the old silk trade route that Japan is famous for, I am trying to incorporate that idea into my next collection and hopefully I will be able to visit Muscat back again to showcase my creations to the Omani audience.” Today, Mizutani’s designs have found an enthusiastic audience within celebrities and artistes and he is constantly reinventing himself to come up with newer and contemporary styles.

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rends The talented 4

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galore

Scintillating designs and stunning accessories made the first Omani Women’s Fashion Trends 2010 a dazzling affair. A look at the fashion event that showcased some of Oman’s best creativity Crème de la Crème Report

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our designers. Forty creations. The first Omani Women’s Fashion Trends 2010 showcased fascinating designs from four of Oman’s best and promising designers. An unique show, OWFT featured only Omani designers and models. Organised by Light and Shadow LLC, the fashion show, held at Al Bustan Palace Hotel, was a first of its kind. The event was held under the auspices of Her Highness Amal bint Turki al Said. Four prominent Omani women fashion designers — Amal Raisi, Amal Jamali, Khadija Sheibani and Anisa al Zadjali — came together to present the Omani haute couture together with an Omani choreographer, Ghania al Farsiya. The concept and presentation of the show was done by Shruti Chowdary, Director of Light and Shadow Enterprises. “The event was aimed at recognising the progress of women in Oman. After the show there was an auction-cum-sale of the designs, which was a great success. The auction fetched RO 1,550, which went to an NGO ‘2010 Omani Women’ for its IQRA charity. I hope to make this an annual event,” said Shruti.

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The event was held under the auspices of Her Highness Amal bint Turki al Said. Four prominent Omani women fashion designers — Amal Raisi, Amal Jamali, Khadija Sheibani and Anisa al Zadjali — came together to present the Omani haute couture together with wellknown Omani choreographer, Ghania al Farsiya

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Gala Style & Beauty

Showcasing Paris Fashion Oman played hosts to French Haute Couture for the very first time at an exhibition held at the French Museum where an eclectic collection of wedding dresses by the prestigious Musée Galliera in Paris was showcased Script: Crème de la Crème Report

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s November heats up with numerous celebrations being planned to commemorate the 40 years of reign of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Galliera in Oman will be a highlight event of the month and a treat for fashion lovers at the same time. In collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Culture, the French Embassy and Musée Galliera in Paris a one of a kind exhibition was held last month to showcase 200 years of French wedding dresses. Galliera, the fashion museum of the City of Paris, makes its sensational debut in Oman for this auspicious exhibition. The Galliera fashion museum is situated in the heart of the city of Paris in the ancient Palace of the Duchess Galliera and hosts rich collections of clothing and accessories among the best in the world. The history of clothing and the creative genius of fashion since 18th century are kept alive by Galliera through creative exhibitions organised under various themes, such as the ‘hightech’ crinoline styles of the Second Empire (1852-70), the 2003 Marlene Dietrich show was credited with influencing designers who incorporated the looks in their runway collections and the lovely garden along Avenue du President Wilson restored in 2005 to its 19th-century style. Anne Zazzo, the curator of the Galliera museum in Paris explains the concept behind the exhibition and how it was a catalyst in bringing

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Since Paris is associated with fashion and everything that goes along with it, we thought this was the best time to bring something like this to Oman while celebrating the 40th National Day

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Each of the dresses have been put through a timeline where visitors will be able to see the gradual change in fashion from one time period to another

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together the culture and traditions of two different countries which coincided with the 40th National Day celebrations. Paris fashion in Oman The whole idea of having this exhibition in Oman was to be able to showcase Paris fashion in Oman. Since Paris is associated with fashion and everything that goes along with it, we thought this was the best time to bring something like this to Oman amidst the 40th National Day celebrations. We wanted to share our idea of fashion with the people of

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Oman as there are so many up and coming young designers in this part of the world. Date with Dresses First of all wedding dresses are the most beautiful dresses that one could ever imagine and secondly marriage is a universal ritual which audiences of both Paris and Oman will be interested in. Wedding dresses are something that people dream about at some point of time in their life. The dresses that are being showcased here have anniversary dates and have been dated to which era they belong to as well. Most of the dresses are dated back precisely to when it was made. The French Connection This exhibition will showcase the masterpieces of French haute couture which will feature creations of France’s most famous designer line up consisting of JeanPaul Gaultier, Christian Lacroix, Guy Laroche, Yves Saint Laurent, Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, Chanel, John Gallian, Karl Lagerfelt, Paco Rabanne, Marcel Rochas, Jeanne Lanvin, Jacques Fath and Christian Dior. Rare and Beautiful Rare artifacts such as a necklace made of shells dating back 27,000 years, a travel kit for a bride made of gold from 1813 and a medieval comb made of sculpted ivory,

accompanying the dresses are some of the major highlights of this exhibition. Unique Collection Galliera boasts of having a prestigious collection of 70,000 pieces back in Paris from which I had to do a very careful selection for Oman. I have selected the dresses keeping in mind the place, culture and traditions. In Paris the museum changes its displays every three months and showcases a thematic exhibition. Change in styles We have carefully selected 30 dresses that will be showcased in Oman. Each of the dresses have been put through a timeline where visitors will be able to see the gradual change in fashion from one time period to another. For example, with the introduction of cinema back in the 1920’s and 30’s, the perception of time and fashion had changed. Visitors will be able to see this change in fashion

perception through the wedding dresses that will be on display from that time period. A first if its kind I am looking forward to this exhibition as it is the first time we will be doing something like this with wedding dresses. We have done several exhibitions before but we like to adapt to every place we visit. The exhibition’s main focus will be from an ethnic point of view than just from a fashion point of view. It will be the ritual that is more important and how the ritual evolved with time and then how fashion is almost like a byproduct. We have had exhibitions showcasing the era of Napoleon the Third, the 1920’s which they call the ‘Crazy Years’ and another interesting theme based on ‘Fashion and the Garden’. All of this takes a lot of effort during the preparation.

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Evolving fashion The exhibition will primarily focus on how designers have taken elements from the history and infused it in their own creations (being loyal to the core fact) to come up with some unique designs in wedding dresses. They have tried to respect all the rules but at the same time changed everything from a fashion point of view. For example Jean Paul Gaultier used the veil and turned it around to create a dress from it.

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The exhibition’s main focus will be from an ethnic point of view than just from a fashion point of view. It will be the ritual that is more important and how the ritual evolved with time and then how fashion is almost like a byproduct

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Nature at its best Founded on the principles of nature, efficacy and sensuality, NUXE creates fascinating skincare products. The luxe French brand’s creations are based on aromatherapy and phytotherapy Crème de la Crème Report

The beginning of NUXE was as a small unknown laboratory set up in 1957 by a pharmacist with a passion for aromatherapy and phytotherapy. In 1989, new graduate Aliza Jabès with the assistance of her family bought the NUXE laboratory in France. And she turned it into a company dedicated to cosmetology that has won numerous accolades from all over the world. While Jabès did not change the core theory of relying on aromatherapy and phytotherapy in the creation of the products, the enterprising entrepreneur took a re-look at the concept. She decided to create a brand faithful to its convictions. “A brand that talks to women, inspired by a woman. A new idea of beauty that could bring together integrity, nature and efficacy,” says Jabès, the visionary owner of NUXE. The first seven years were laborious for Jabès. She had a very small team to begin with that consisted of a pharmacist to formulate, a packer and an assistant. But her obsession to detail and principles were strong - quality and efficacy based on plants. NUXE first product, Huile Prodigieuse was an instant hit. It took the beauty world by storm. This multi-purpose dry oil nourishes, repairs and protects skin and hair thanks 122

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to its unique concentration of 6 precious oils and Vitamin E, in a silicon-free formula. In a single gesture, it subtly illuminates the skin and makes hair shine. Even after all these years, Huile Prodigieuse remains the brand’s bestseller. In 1996, Jabès took another major step - commercial development. “I bet on the emerging channel of pharmacies and parapharmacies for this. A team of ten sales people were then recruited. They were given a simple advice: do not be afraid to dare. They did just that and in two years, sales tripled.” Within a short span of time, NUXE has become one of the most valued and popular brands in the skincare industry. The brand’s underlying philosophy has been its main reason for success - Beauty by Nature. “Our motto reflects the values of the brand: nature, efficacy and sensuality.” Jabès’s unwavering passion for plants combined with a gifted understanding of women’s needs has taken NUXE to the position of a unique brand that has strong beliefs in its roots and authenticity. The young brand upholds three important values that have been NUXE’s guiding factors:

• Nature with high concentrated vegetal formulas

• Efficacy systematically confirmed through tests conducted clinically under dermatological supervision, exclusive and often patented ingredients (Nuxe has more than 20 patents) • Sensuality with products that deliver an exceptional pleasure of use: velvety, incomparable textures, exquisite fragrances, enchanting names and more.

“Being sensual with a glamorous and poetic image is something unique. It has never happened before in the pharmaceutical channel, which is still considered as a technical and scientific environment,” says Jabès. When asked about the inspiration of the unique brand name, Jabès says, “NUXE is a contraction of Nature and Luxe (Luxury) that perfectly define the brand’s DNA. Nature is at the source of our R&D. Each NUXE product draws its inspiration from the heart of phytotherapy and aromatherapy; blending the best of pharmacopeia and medicinal traditions from around the world.” She adds, “NUXE offers a vegetal efficacy through products that are very rich in active, precious, rare and innovative ingredients (min. 80% of ingredients of natural origin in each formula). The fragrances of our products are unique olfactive creations. “Luxury is a concentrate of pleasure and pleasure is becoming today the first motivation for purchase. The consumption is moving away from “show off ” stage to feelings, explorations and discoveries. NUXE has always mentioned in its charter the pleasure and sensuality of its galenics and scents.” High concentrated formulas and exceptional pleasure of use make NUXE a brand that is strongly linked to the luxury world. “NUXE’s DNA has evolved from the marriage of high rigor with a touch of poetry,” says the luxury brand owner. NUXE is a fairly new player in the world of skincare, where big brands and companies rule. Yet the young brand has created a niche for itself and slowly but steadily gathered loyalists who swear by its products. “The main force of NUXE compared to the competition of big groups is linked to the company profile. Being a smaller structure allows you a better capacity to react, to take decision and answer faster to market changes and consumer needs. We can take risks that bigger laboratories would not take. Our force is also linked to the product itself.

Our price positioning has always been based on a high level. Although it is luxurious, we give good value for money, which incidentally is the perfect combination during crisis,” explains the brain behind the brand. Combining nature’s goodness with advanced skincare technology, NUXE is one of the most promising young brands today.

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Each NUXE product draws its inspiration from the heart of phytotherapy and aromatherapy; blending the best of pharmacopeia and medicinal traditions from around the world

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The charter of commitment NUXE states its commitments in their charter as thus:

• Selection of natural active ingredients • Products without mineral oils, synthetic colourants* or animal-origin ingredients • Non-comedogenic products** • Test conducted by an independent Laboratory approved by the French Ministry of Research for optimum safety and effectiveness • Preservative system without paraben*** • Contribution to environmental protection: preference for recyclable materials, discontinuation of leaflets, use of smaller folding cartons, etc. (*Face Care, **Except in make-up products, ***Select products)

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Estee Lauder Pleasures Bloom Perfumes & Cosmetics

Estée Lauder’s new Pleasures Bloom is a luscious fruity floral fragrance, that embodies the appeal of new moments, new pleasures and the exuberance of life’s carefree days. The new fragrance represents a more playful, contemporary expression of the original, iconic concept. At once distinctly feminine, playful and exuberant, pleasures bloom instantly transports you to a field of colourful petals and delectable fruits where fresh violet flowers and vibrant pink peonies sparkle. Grapefruit, Raspberry, Lychee, Green Lily and Musk are some of the invigorating scents in this fragrance.

Clarins Barocco Festive Make-up Capital Store LLC

Festive makeup takes on a new form with Clarins’s new collection. Clarins Barocco Festive Make-up Collection has has taken inspiration from the flamboyant universe of baroque to create a sumptuous collection where the finest textures are combined with the most elegant packaging. This inspiration has lead to the creation of four limited editions, a collection of sensual, mysterious make-up that celebrates every woman and her indefinable uniqueness. The Barocco collection includes Face Palette, Shimmering Gold Powder For Face and Décolleté, Eye Colour Trio and Rouge Prodige. As for the packaging, the black scroll on a gold background is the festive emblem of the collection and embellishes all items with a decoration inspired by the delicate work of the silversmith.

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UNDER SUPERVISION OF DR.RAMI ANDERI Brazilian - Lebanese Plastic Surgeon implementing the latest innovations of the Brazilian techniques

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Melange

Simply Musts w Extravaganza w I, Me, Myself November 2010

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Simply Musts

A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of luxury

Evocative Design The name GROHE Ondus Digitecture™ defines a bold approach to innovation, blending digital technology and imaginative architecture into a modular collection for contemporary bathrooms. Comprised of rectangular glass panels and high-quality GROHE faucets and fittings, the system offers creative freedom for architects as well as stylish design and superior performance for users. This new concept continues the GROHE Ondus® line of products which GROHE successfully launched in the market a while ago. GROHE Ondus® has already attracted numerous international design awards and both its “Sensual Minimalism” style and its Velvet Black and Moon White finishes remain at the forefront of international design trends. Innovative technology makes GROHE Ondus Digitecture™ intuitive to use. Users can programme and store their preferred combinations of water temperature and flow rate. The system has a “pause” setting to temporarily stop the water flow for example while shampooing. The “play” setting then reactivates the water at the exact same temperature and flow rate. This saves water and energy, benefiting the household budget and the environment at the same time. Available at Ahmed Mohsin Trading showroom, Wadi Kabir

A Night to Remember Launched last year by the Austrian glass manufacturer Tiroler Glashutte GmbH (which has franchisees in a number of other countries); the Reidel Black Tie Face To Face Decanter is aptly named. After all, black ties are an integral part of the dress code at formal events, such as sit-down meals at fine dining restaurants or hotels; and at such events you are bound to come face to face with other connoisseurs of the high life. The decanter is one of the three variants of the Black Tie collection – the others being the Black Tie and the Black Tie Amadeo. The decanter is about 600 millimetres (23.625 inches) tall and has a capacity of approximately 1, 766 cubic centimeters (62.25 ounces). Items of this type are priceless for people who use and understand them. Available at Tavola, Madinat Qaboos

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Boots to die for This Alexander McQueen Angel Beige Leather Boots are to die for. The heel measures a good 120mm/4.6 inches with a 20mm/0.8inch platform. This striking beige leather boot has a peeptoe with linear stitch detailing and a skull zip pull. Presented in an Alexander McQueen box, surprise your lady love. www.harrods.com

Power & Beauty Since time immemorial, ladies have always been particular about being on time; and Rolex, which has almost become a generic name in the world of luxury watches, has always recognised that. The make is Rolesor and the materials used to make the pieces in the Oyster Perpetual Datejust Lady 31 mm collection. The three models in this collection – yellow, white and Everose Rolesor – have a number of dials to choose from. The floral motifs, produced by a technique called electroforming, celebrate femininity. The 31 mm refers to the diameter. The watches are studded with precious stones – bezels, to be precise. These bezels are either fluted or domed and have either 24 or 46 brilliants. Eighteen carat gold and 904L steel are the other materials used to create these exquisite watches. These watches are light and have perpetual and self-winding rotors. The hour markers for all the numbers on the dial are written in Roman numerals, and the number six stands out, as it is a gem-set VI. For any further information, contact Khimji’s Watches at 24699173

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Mamma and Baby The next best thing to bringing a little bundle of joy into the world is providing the new arrival with nothing but the best, so it grows up healthy and happy. Be it the 48-hour Mama and Baby Bag, a large bag that can hold everything from towels to bottles to diapers – the need of the hour for every working mother – or an exclusive range of wearables (including labour and birthing shirts, bodysuits and soft leather shoes), huddle & bliss (h&b) has it all. This brand, which has its origins in Northampton, England, has two highlights. Firstly, is that it is manned by a team of women who are working mothers themselves; and secondly, every product is made from organic products and is therefore absolutely safe and skin-friendly. That is undoubtedly good news for mothers. It would be incorrect to think the product range is restricted to clothes – it has a wide range of natural skincare products as well. For more details visit Mennez at Madinat Qaboos

Sparklers All the Way The dazzling necklace in the Farasha range, which is one of Damas’ latest jewellery range is known for its natureinspired colours. Red is the colour of roses, green is inspired by trees, blue signifies the sky (or water), yellow is associated with the sun and violet has been derived from the wings of a butterfly. Each of these colours is associated with a gemstone, and every piece of jewellery in the collection is studded with these priceless gems. Red represents rhodolites (associated with power and grace); green is the colour of peridots; blue is associated with topaz (a gemstone that has traditionally represented intelligence and has been worn for a long life); yellow symbolises citrines, which are believed to protect the wearer against evil and violet is the colour of amethysts, which ward off evil and increase one’s intelligence. It is this spectacular combination of gemstones from the house of SIGNITY (a joint venture between crystal giant Swarovski and one of the global leaders in gemstones, Golay Buchel) and 18-karat white gold – in which they are set – that make every pendant, ring or earring a must-have in every jewellery lover’s collection. Farasha is available at the Damas store in Sabco Oman.

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Revolutionary Time Punctuality makes for an excellent style statement. There’s no better proof of this fact than the Bell and Ross BR01-92 COMPASS watch, one of 500 limited edition pieces. As its name suggests, these exclusive and exquisite timepieces are inspired by the compass. It is a portable version, so to speak, of the clock in the cockpit of an aircraft. It is a product that revolutionises the way the time is told. The first thing that is likely to strike you about it is that it has two concentric discs – which are black in colour – instead of the conventional hands. The outer disc is the ‘hour hand’ and the inner one is the ‘minute hand’. A photoluminescent coat covers the numbers. Here’s a note about the strap; it is available in black colour only and is made of leather and synthetic fabric. The tongue buckles are also worth a mention. The makers of the watch literally followed the policy of ‘diametrically opposite’ thinking – and came up with a 46-millimetre case with a shotpeened steel 316 L, black PVD finish and a screw-in crown. Its anti-reflection sapphire is one of its outstanding characteristics. For any further information, contact Khimji’s Watches at 24699173

Exquisite Writing Instrument The object’s design, halfway between a work of art and a writing instrument, borrows the material, colours, and signature elements of the timepieces inspired by the maritime masterpiece, the Titanic. In the detailed form of the famous vessel’s ventilator cowls, and topped with a cap whose clip is shaped like a staircase handrail, its opening is covered with a sapphire crystal, revealing an 18-carat-gold fountain pen nib, artfully engraved with the image of the Titanic. The barrel of the object bears a ring of oxidised steel, born out of the fusion between rusted steel from the wreck of the Titanic and steel supplied by the Harland & Wolff shipyards, where the great ship was built almost a century ago. Available at Mistal, Darsait

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Making Dreams Come True

Hema Malini

Indian cinema’s ‘dream girl’, Hema Malini and daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol were in Muscat recently for a charity dinner and dance event. Conceptualised by Black and White, the two-day event was organised in support of breast cancer awareness

Yuthar Mohammed Al-Rawahy

Crème de la Crème Report

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he came, she saw, she captivated. And so did her daughters. Hema Malini, referred to as the dream girl of Indian cinema and a noted danseuse enthralled residents of Muscat at a special dinner and dance event organised by Black &White magazine. Hema Malini was joined by her two daughters – Esha and Ahana Deol – at the event held in aid of support of breast cancer awareness through National Association for Cancer Awareness (NACA). The first of the two-day event was a charity dinner held at Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa that was attended by Hema Malini and her daughters as well as many notable figures of the Muscat social scene. While the actress and her daughters were the most anticipated guests of that evening, the surprise factor came in the form of globally renowned percussionist – Sivamani.

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While the actress and her daughters were the most anticipated guests of that evening, the surprise factor came in the form of globally renowned percussionist – Sivamani

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Flown in especially for the dinner, Sivamani gave a stunning performance with his trademark ensemble consisting of simple ‘musical instruments’ like a tool box, vessels et al. The following day saw Hema Malini along with her daughters give a spell-binding dance performance. Titled Parampara, the signature classical dance performance of the mother-daughter trio comprised of Odissi and Bharatanatyam and was staged at the Oman Auditorium in Al Bustan Palace InterContinental Hotel. They were accompaniced on stage by Hema Malini’s dance troupe, Natya Vihar Kalakendra. The proceeds of the two-day event will go to NACA’s mobile mammography unit and the Home Away from Home initiative that intends to provide accommodation for cancer patients and their families who travel from the interiors of Oman to Muscat for check-ups and treatment and cannot afford to stay in hotels.

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The proceeds of the twoday event will go to NACA’s mobile mammography unit and the Home Away from Home initiative that intends to provide accommodation for cancer patients and their families

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Melange

I, Me, Myself

Enterprising and vivacious Fiona Griffiths, General Manager of the stylish fashion boutique Nick&Friends talks about matters close to her heart Mantra in life:  To work hard and play hard What motivates me:  The encouragement from my husband and my children’s happiness. Everything I do is for them. My inspiration:  My mother and my husband Favourite hangouts in Muscat:  With my girlfriends – Bubby Brunch at Radisson Blu; with my husband it could be anywhere from a local Indian restaurant to the The Chedi, depends on the occasion; Noodle House or Pizza Express for the whole family. My interests:  Camping and spending time with my family Most memorable holiday:  Is our honeymoon in South Africa. We spent three weeks in South Africa and then went back the next year. In my wardrobe: There’s a bit of everything. I love dressing up but at the same time I am happy to be in my casuals. I love to shop: In London, especially for the kids. I pick up clothes for myself from London as well as Zara and Nick&Friends. Muscat musings: I love the country. The whole concept of the freedom that expats enjoy and the lifestyle is wonderful. And the beauty of the place is breathtaking.

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Let Us All Pledge Together For A Green & Clean Future