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Inside

Trailblazer The iconic Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is all set to open its doors in October this year. Games, history, sports and true Italian heritage come to life in this much-anticipated amusement park

ADVERTORIAL Nasra Al Adawi, an established poetess talks about her books and involvement in CSR activities for the empowerment and development of women and youth in Oman

Automobilia

Exclusive Dr. Patricia Groves’s first book, Strongholds of Heritage – Forts and Castles of Oman will be published in October. The renowned personality shares her experiences on writing the well-researched book

Business and Finance

Investment Alternative energy is the focus of investors today. An industry that is poised to become the next big thing in the global economy, alternative energy provides prudent investors with unique options

Advertorial Oman’s leading Property Service Company in Oman, Gulf Property World (GPW) celebrates their third anniversary this year and is known to offer impeccable services to clients in the field of Real Estate.

September 2010

First Look Aston Martin made a grand debut last month in the capital with the launch of a spanking new showroom that also heralded an envious line-up of five of its luxurious models

Drive The AUDI A5 is a definitive luxury sports coupe that packs in impressive performance and elegant styling

Art and Design

Canvas Ecuadorian sculptor, Marco Polo’s works embrace the human form in unique and remarkable modes.

Inspiration Radhika Hamlai speaks about colours, ancient sculptures, and famous artists who inspire her

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Decor Euroart, the first exclusive wallpaper showroom offers an wide and remarkable range of wallpapers. Young and enterprising Omani couple Imaan Ali Al Ajmi and Hassan Al Zaabi head this unique project

Gourmet & Hospitality

Culinaire A thoroughly appetising and enjoyable gourmet journey through the Swiss Alps was organised by the Grand Hyatt Muscat to celebrate the Swiss National Day

Review A quaint French restaurant, La Brasserie in Muttrah offers delectable and authentic fare from the fashionable European nation

Showcase A look at the Chaine des Rotisseurs group in Oman that has a long and traditional history related to gourmet

Travel and Lifestyle

104

Destination High among the list of nations that are rich in culture, heritage, history, beauty and opulence is China. This absolutely remarkable country offers visitors a lifetime of memories to take back

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Escape The majestic Dolder Grand in Zurich has

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entertained the rich and famous for more than a century. The refurbished resort hotel upholds its heritage while it takes on a contemporary look

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Lounge Our selections for your library this month â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose and The Murder Room

Style and Beauty

120

Fashion Sevda Mutlu, a London based handbags designer has been wowing ladies with her collections. Classy, modern and practical, her handbags are a treat for women

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Launch Philip Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is a new and revolutionary organic skin care, hair care and beauty products range that has just been launched. Ayana Spa offers both products and treatments from the Italian brand

Melange

130 luxury

Simply Musts A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of

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I, Me, Myself Up close and personal with Luma Al Saleh, the Director and CSR Specialist of TRACCS

September 2010

Reflections When was the last time you went for a ride in the roller-coaster? Or tried to manoeuvre through a an arena of bumper cars? Remember trying to hit the dummy ducks at the shooting gallery? Games and rides in amusement parks, pleasures we enjoyed as kids, often remain a distant memory for many people these days. As humans grow older, our desire to indulge in activities that gave us joy as kids begin to dwindle and the need to grow up sooner takes over. And once we start growing older, the desire to remain youthful possesses us. Research shows that keeping the inner child in us alive is the easiest way to beat ageing. Even spending time with youngsters and kids is another way to keep our mind young, even as the years pass by. Indulging in games or activities that kept us engaged and happy as kids is yet another trick to keep the soul young. Which brings me to the key subject – amusement parks. In the Middle East, amusement parks are a rarity. One of my favourite memories from childhood is of going to Al Ain Fun City in UAE. It was the only full-fledged amusement park in the Emirates then. In Muscat, we have Marah Land, which has lately added a few new exciting rides. While we still lack enough quality amusement parks in the region, the much-anticipated Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is all set to rewrite rules. This October, the Italian luxury car manufacturer will unveil Ferrari’s first and the world’s largest indoor theme amusement park in UAE’s capital city. Boasting of the world’s fastest roller-coaster and unique games that will delight every Ferrari fan and fun-lover, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is one of its kind. Read all about this mega-project in our Cover Story. There are some interesting people featured in this month’s issue – Ecuadorian sculptor Marco Polo, Turkish designer Sevda Mutlu and Luma Al Saleh from Oman. The well-scripted travel feature on China and the profile of the exclusive Chaine des Rotisseurs are must reads. There are many more engaging features to keep you occupied this month. Eid will be upon us in a few days. Team Crème de la Crème wishes all readers a joyous and lovely Eid. And have a scintillating September!

Editor anne@sjsoman.com

September 2010

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September 2010 Vol - II Issue - 22

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

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

PRINTERS OMAN PRINTERS

DISCLAIMER

All rights reserved. No part of Crème de la Crème or any part of the contents there of may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. The publishers regret they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers

September 2010

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE AFTER YOU HAVE ENJOYED READING IT

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Trailblazer w Exclusive September 2010

Platinum Club

Trailblazer

A new

History, passion, thrill and path breaking technology come together at the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest amusement park that is being built in Abu Dhabi. Scheduled to open in October 2010, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi celebrates the iconic Italian brand in a truly befitting style ď ŽScript: Anne Kurian

September 2010

world F

errari evokes images of top class motoring, class, history and cutting edge technology, not to forget Formula 1 racing. Ferrari’s achievements in the world of motoring and racing has taken the Italian brand to the pinnacle. The highly acclaimed luxury motoring brand has added another feather to its cap - the creation of Ferrari’s first and the world’s largest amusement park. Located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirate’s capital, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi pays homage to the luxury auto manufacturer’s rich history and legacy that has placed it among the most exclusive brands. Set to open on October 28, 2010, the stunning amusement park is poised to be the perfect destination for families as well as fans of Ferrari alike. The Ferrari Touch What captures your attention at first sight is the 200,000 m2 roof in Ferrari’s signature red inspired by the classic double curve side profile of the Ferrari GT body and features the largest Ferrari logo ever created under which lies the entire amusement park. The interior building spans a staggering 86,000 m2. The park has been designed to give off the feeling of being in Italy’s beautiful countryside as a result of the remarkable landscaping with some of Ferrari’s best models showcased in the park.

September 2010

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The memorabilia on offer range from custom made remote control Ferrari cars to exotic gifts handcrafted by Italian artisans. Guests will also enjoy the unique Ferrari boutique where they can create their personalised souvenirs at innovative interactive zones

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September 2010

Over 20 awe-inspiring games will find place in this amusement park, each designed to recreate a different part of the Ferrari story. Among the main attractions at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world’s fastest rollercoaster, travelling at speeds exceeding 200 km/h and emulating the thrilling sensation of being in a Ferrari F1 car. An enormous crystal-glazed funnel at the heart of the park forms the centerpiece of the world’s largest indoor theme park. Andy Keeling, Park Manager, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi commented, “There’s a spectacular surprise for guests at each corner inside Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, whether in the creative interiors, sophisticated concepts of the rides, or the mind boggling technology and history showcases.”

Stories to share Ferrari is among the few luxury sports car manufacturers that have immense stories to reel off from the pages of their rich heritage. Lovers of the brand and every passionate auto visitor at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi can be assured to find many of these stories from the legendary Ferrari stable – its powerful cars, racing triumphs, technical innovation and the authenticity of the homeland that embraces all that rich history. For instance, Galleria Ferrari will showcase the largest Ferrari gallery outside its hometown, Maranello. An interactive display will enable guests to view cars from 1947 right through to the brand’s latest creations. And for those who wish to get a glimpse of Ferrari’s famous factory without having to travel all the way to Italy, Made in Maranello provides the exclusive opportunity to see how the Ferrari factory looks like, which was privy to Ferrari owners only. The Ferrari Experience It goes without saying that every visitor will be provided with an unforgettable Ferrari experience – right from a turbo charged ride to understanding the world of Ferrari to zipping in the wrold’s fastest roller coaster and of course, relishing the experience of being behind the wheels of one the world’s fastest cars. The park’s rides have been designed to cater to the gaming needs of both adults and kids. In fact the park has special rides and activities for youngsters. At the Ferrari Academy, children can learn their driving skills on the roads of Junior GT before stepping up to race in Ferrari F1™ cars at the Junior Grand Prix. For smaller kids, the Junior Training camp will be a great option which features a unique interactive soft play area. Here kids can indulge in a lot of automotive-related activities like waterless car wash, become a custom ‘constructor’, climb up the grandstand, pilot remote cars, paddle their own miniature Ferrari and play with an F1™ car made entirely of soft, child-friendly foam. What’s more? Parents can keep an eye on their tots from the café situated right in front of the kids’ zone. Dining, shopping and more Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will live up to its Italian roots and thus offer sumptuous food from the country. A variety of Ferrariinspired restaurants and cafes serving guests authentic Italian dishes with a true taste of Italy are part of the amusement park. This includes Mamma Rossella, a traditional family style Italian trattoria and Cavallino, an elegant dining a la carte restaurant devoted to offering appetising Italian delicacies. And a trip to the world’s largest amusement park is not complete without taking home some really remarkable souvenirs and mementos. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will house two unique retail outlets - the world’s largest Ferrari store and a unique ‘past and present’ store, including Enzo Ferrari’s first garage recreated. The memorabilia on offer range from custom made remote control Ferrari cars to exotic gifts handcrafted by Italian artisans. Visitors are sure to be enthralled by the unique Ferrari boutique where you can create personalised souvenirs at innovative interactive zones. So get ready to experience Ferrari like never before and buckle up for the ride of your life with the prancing horse!

September 2010

Andy Keeling, Park Manager, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

A closer look In an exclusive interview to Crème de la Crème, Andy Keeling, Park Manager, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi talks about the fascinating theme park that will be launched in less than two months. Please explain the concept of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Ferrari is one of the world’s most iconic contemporary brands which transcends cultural, geographical and language barriers. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will bring to life the Ferrari story in ways which will appeal to individuals of all ages and interests. Through this exciting new park, guests will be able to experience the passion, technical innovation which has made Ferrari loved by millions all over the world. What are the attractions of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi? Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will feature more than 20 unique rides and attractions which will indulge the senses in ways never experienced before. Some highlights include the fantasy world of ‘Nello’ at Speed of Magic, where the mischievous racing driver leads guests on a fantastic 4-D adventure through deep green jungles to icy caves and ravines. Guests can also go faster than anyone has ever been before on a roller coaster when they ride Formula Rossa, which powers them to 240 kmph in less than five seconds. Discover what only Ferrari owners, with a tour through the Maranello factory aboard the Made in Maranello attraction, and gain an insight into the making of the world’s most sought-after cars. Viaggio in Italia, provides a breath-taking bird’s eye view of Italy, as you follow a Ferrari California through the scenic countryside and famous Italian landmarks. With the thrill of some of the world’s most inventive rides, eye-catching surroundings, authentic aromas and

September 2010

distinctive sounds of Italy, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will ignite the senses and provide memorable moments for everyone. What kind of experience can a visitor expect from this iconic theme park? With more than 20 rides and attractions lying beneath the iconic 200,000 m2 red roof, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will offer guests the time of their lives with a host of attractions that indulge the senses in ways never experienced before. The Park has been designed to offer guests of all ages and interests an unforgettable day out. Those wishing to start their Ferrari World experience in top gear will get their adrenaline fix at the G-Force blasting through the red roof, before being dropped from a hairraising height of 62m. Guests after a truly turbo charged Ferrari experience cannot go past Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster with a lightning bolt top speed of 240km/h. Dare devils can indulge their competitive streak on the Fiorano GT Challenge, where two F430 Spiderstyled rollercoaster carriages will battle for dominance on the track. For a more relaxed experience, adults and children of all ages can enjoy the sites and sounds of Italy as they soar above the picturesque Italian countryside through mountains, villages, vineyards and forests on Viaggio in Italia. Families who wish to pick up the pace will be able to immerse themselves into the world of Nello at Speed of Magic, as he leads them on a fantastic 4-D adventure through deep green jungles to icy caves and ravines; from the bottom of the ocean to the mouth of a fiery volcano; through settings where no Ferrari has ever gone before. There are also a range of attractions for younger guests including the Driving School, a two part driving and racing school complete with junior race track and driving circuit, giving pre-teens their first taste behind a wheel. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is the world’s largest indoor theme park. What are the other factors that make the park unique? With Ferrari World Abu Dhabi we are attempting to do something which has never been done before. We are turning one of the world’s most iconic brands into a state of the art theme park which can be enjoyed by families and Ferrari enthusiasts in equal measure. Each attraction tells a different aspect of the Ferrari story, for example the Formula Rossa (world’s fastest roller coaster) celebrates speed and power, whilst Viaggio in Italia, an aerial voyage over Italy, is a tribute to Ferrari’s Italian heritage. The park fills a gap in the GCC market for family friendly entertainment options which can be enjoyed all year around. Who are the architects, designers, builders that have worked on this project? The development of the project is being managed by Aldar Properties PJSC. The distinctive Ferrari World

Abu Dhabi structure, which is inspired by the double curve of the Ferrari GT, was designed by world renowned architects Benoy. The interior park layout and attractions were designed by master ride designers Jack Rouse and Associates. How was Abu Dhabi chosen to be the home of the park? This decision was the result of the two pioneering industry leaders (Aldar Properties PJSC and Ferrari) reflecting the unique foresight and deep rooted relationship that, through this exciting new park, will meet a significant entertainment and leisure need for fans and families in region. Motorsports are extremely popular in the United Arab Emirates, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will offer enthusiasts, fans and families the opportunity to experience Ferrari in a unique and intensely fun way; enabling guests, from all over the world, to experience the Italian authenticity, passion and technical innovation that exemplifies the spirit of Ferrari. The park will also add to Abu Dhabi’s substantial attributes as a world class tourist destination. Will the F1 drivers from Ferrari visiting the theme park give visitors a chance to interact/ meet them? We have a very close working relationship with Ferrari and I’m sure many of the famous Ferrari names and faces will be popping in to enjoy the experience of the world’s

first Ferrari theme park. How does Ferrari intend to keep its distinctive racing history alive at the park? Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will bring to life different aspects of the Ferrari story in a number of ways. A number of rides and attractions celebrate Ferrari’s legendary racing history. Some examples include the Galleria Ferrari, the world’s largest Ferrari gallery outside Maranello, which showcases the most exclusive range of classic and contemporary Ferrari’s from all over the world and Racing Legends, a ride through Ferrari’s greatest racing moments starting from the first races all the way to today’s F1 victories. How do you intend to attract visitors from around the world? When the concept of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi was first developed we conducted a number of feasibility studies which identified a clear demand for family friendly leisure options which can be enjoyed all year round, transcending lingual and cultural barriers. The park will also add to Abu Dhabi’s substantial attributes as a world class tourist destination. To give you an idea, the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority estimates that the Emirate will achieve three million tourist arrivals per year by 2015, and we are confident that there is a great potential for attractions such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, providing visitors a highly memorable and enjoyable experience which will keep them coming back again and again.

September 2010

The Ferrari World Abu Dhabi attractions • Formula Rossa – The world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of 240 kmph. • Speed of Magic – A fantasy 4-D journey following the adventures of a young boy as he travels through a kaleidoscopic dreamscape of natural and phenomenal environments, where no Ferrari has gone before. • Made in Maranello – A virtual trip behind the walls of the famous Ferrari factory in Maranello, taking guests through the intricate process of making the world’s most sought after car. • V12 – An exciting flume ride to the heart of a 12 cylinders engine. • G-Force – A thrilling tower ride that will shoot thrill-seekers through the red roof and 62 meters in the air before plummeting back to Earth, experiencing the actual G-force of a Ferrari, in a seat directly inspired by the Ferrari Enzo. • Scuderia Challenge – Cutting edge racing simulators similar to those used by the drivers of the Scuderia Ferrari in training. • Viaggio in Italia – A virtual aerial voyage over Italy’s cities and their main monuments, mountains and coasts pursuing a Ferrari. • Fiorano GT Challenge – A unique dueling rollercoaster with Ferrari F430 Spiders twisting and turning through tight corners on a sprint to the finish line. • Bell’Italia – A miniature recreation of Italy’s most famous locations, from the picturesque Portofino and the Amalfi Coast to Monza racetrack, the Colosseum in Roma, Venezia and Maranello, the heartland and home of Ferrari. • Paddock – A re-creation of the Ferrari motor home including garages, transporters & hospitality suites with interactive shows offering fans a taste of the true action behind the scenes on a Grand Prix race day. • The Pit Wall – An interactive theatre that allows guests to test their judgment in realistic racing scenarios. • Galleria Ferrari – The world’s largest Ferrari gallery outside Maranello, showcasing the most exclusive range of classic and contemporary Ferrari’s from all over the world. • Junior GT – A driving school for children with expert instruction where they will drive reduced scale F430 GT Spiders on an equipped driving course. • Junior Grand Prix – After the Junior GT driving experience, budding F1™ drivers can enjoy the race track in scaled down Ferrari F1™ racers. • The Racing Legends – A ride through Ferrari’s greatest racing moments starting from the first races all the way to today’s F1 victories. • Driving with Champions – an interactive 3-D show which follows the adventures of a young engineer who is taken on the ride of a lifetime with a racing champion on his first day working at the Ferrari factory • Cinema Maranello – Ferrari World’s own theatre showing ‘Coppa di Sicilia’, a short film that tells one of the many inspiring stories from the life of the legendary Enzo Ferrari. • Junior Training Camp – An interactive play area for children where they can engage with a waterless car wash, become custom ‘constructors’, climb up the grandstand, pilot remote cars, paddle their own miniature Ferrari and play with an F1™ car made of soft, guest-friendly foam. • Carousel – Featuring never-before-seen Ferrari prototypes based on winning designs from a Ferrari competition.

September 2010

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Dr. Patricia Groves

Chronicles of treasures of Oman 50

September 2010

he forts and castles of Oman are the legacy of the Sultanate. Iconic and stately, they are treasures houses of history as well as culture. A book by Dr. Patricia Groves to be launched in October this year will chronicle the stories of some of the important forts and castles of Oman. Strongholds of Heritage – Forts and Castles of Oman pays glowing tribute to these edifices of history. Penned by Dr. Groves, writer and Advisor, Office of the Minister, Ministry of Higher Education, with photographs by Jaap Croese, the book is published by Motivate Publishing, Dubai. A well-researched book, Strongholds of Heritage– Forts and Castles of Oman is beautifully scripted and supported by outstanding images by Croese. Dr. Groves brings out the poetry and charm of all the historical sites that she has visited through eloquent storytelling. Dr. Groves has earlier written small handbooks commissioned by the Austrian and Netherlands Embassies titled The Maria Theresa Thaler, Country Castles of Oman and Strongholds of Oman. The latter featured four forts of Oman and proved to be the inspiration for her book that will be launched next month. She has also finished work on a three-volume commissioned book that explores contemporary architecture of Oman. Also in the offing is a book on Indian and Omani artists. In an exclusive chat with Crème de la Crème, the author talks about her journey of discovery, enlightenment and history undertaken for the book that spanned over a period of four years. The beginning The first castle I visited when I came to Oman was Jabrin. I fell in love with the castle and was especially moved by the Hall of the Sun and the Moon. The hall inspired me to start a book called Garden of the Sun and the Moon. I did not publish the book but it became the basis of many

The forts and castles are the cultural landmarks of Oman. Dr. Patricia Groves takes a deeper insight into some of these iconic treasures through her first book, Strongholds of Heritge – Forts and castles of Oman Script: Anne Kurian

A view of Nizwa Castle courtyard - Image by Jaap Croese

September 2010

Above: Enchanted Castle Facing page (top right): Husn Ash Shumooq - Images by Jaap Croese

articles that I wrote later on the forts and castles of Oman. Fueled by passion Strongholds of Heritage– Forts and Castles of Oman has been the result of all my time in Oman during which I have been studying and writing about the forts and castles. I thought I would do only seven or eight but the book has 28 forts and castles of Oman. The Ministry of Tourism is the sponsor of the book and they wanted it to be more extensive. It was really exciting to work on the book. Going to these forts and castles was an enriching experience. It was a journey of discovery and getting to know the different stories associated with each of the sites I visited. Each fort and castle I visited is different and it presented me with a whole new panorama. The forts and castles of Oman are a passion for me as I have a background in lecturing about Social History of Art. A closer look Every chapter in the book has been done in a different manner and that has been possible because the concept of each fort and castle in Oman is different. Some are homey, like the Sadah Castle, while some are luxurious like the An ‘Naman, the country castle. The book features important forts and castles that come under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of

September 2010

Heritage and Culture, Ministry of Defence and also the Diwan of Royal Court. I have the top forts and castles in the book including some that are less known like Al Kandaq and Al Hillah in Buraimi. There is even an enchanting ruin featured, which is my favourite. The book is divided into two parts - Sentinels of the Coasts and Guardians of the Interior Lands. The book starts from Khasab, journeys through Muscat and goes all the way to Salalah. Then the book moves into the interiors – Rustaq, Nizwa, Sur and Suwaiq among others. Capturing the details Every fort and castle I visited has a distinctive character. Each structure’s design elements, interior décor, rooms and layout are different from the other. Through the book, I have tried to recreate the atmosphere of the castles and forts… the magic and charm that you see and feel there. Even the photographs that have been taken by Jaap are different from what you often get to see. There are angles and views that are unconventional yet breathtaking. As a reader, you might wonder if some of the photos are of the forts or castles mentioned in the book. A unique scripting Each chapter is short but has a wealth of information in it. I have put in images of people to bring the human element. Strongholds of Heritage – Forts and Castles of Oman is not

a coffee table book. It is a serious book but easy to read. I have taken care not to overdo on the information or make it too long. It is easy to move from text to pictures; even the captions are different from what is different in the editorial. I do not repeat text. Interspersed within the text are boxes containing information that would engage the reader. The Ministry of Tourism extended tremendous support to me for the book by making available manuscripts, old photographs and other data from their archives. Marcia Dorr, author of The Craft Heritage of Oman, helped by providing access to the archives of the Ministry of Tourism as well as her own personal research files. Strongholds of Heritage– Forts and Castles of Oman is well researched and thus is educative. It will be helpful for people researching on forts and castles; every word in the book has been read and verified by the Ministry of Tourism. It makes for a great gift or a souvenir for visitors to take back. Imbibing the aura Writing the book included various trips to the castles and forts, some of which I have been quite a few times. I would sit there, study the structures, wander around and try to soak in the atmosphere at every fort and castle. When you visit a castle or fort with the objective of writing a book, the experience is different from when you go as a visitor. There are two parts to writing for me – one is to feel inspired and bring in the poetic element, the other is to incorporate the facts, which are derived from research materials, archives, photographs and even blueprints. The magic of images People relate to pictures; images are easy to connect and remember. Jaap and I put in a lot of effort to illustrate the castles and forts through remarkable photographs. The images are more illustrative photography than just choosing from a bunch of thousands of photographs. We have had to wait for the right time to capture images that would complement the character of each castle and fort as described in the book. There was a lot of time spent waiting for the right moment to take images as well as going early in the mornings for certain photo shoots. The wonderful world of words I was a lecturer for 17 years in Canada, where I taught Social History of Art. But I have always loved writing and as a teacher I was not able to be poetic or write what I wanted. I used to write from a young age; I wrote poetry, letters, notes…writing has been a passion. When I was nine years old, my family moved from Toronto to a beautiful countryside where I fell in love with nature. So inspired was I that along with my younger sister, I started a nature journal for our school. That probably was the beginning of my enthusiasm for writing. When I begin to write, I forget the rest of the world. I feel writing is a gift and you can write only if you feel the passion inside.

September 2010

Enjoy the tradition of gifting the very best to your loved ones ...

Eid Mubarak

Business & Finance

Investment w Advertorial September 2010

Business & Finance

Investment

Investing in

The Future Alternative energy is what the future is about. Though in its early stages, alternative energy is poised to become the next big industry in the world Crème de la Crème Report

lternative energy is an increasingly discussed and researched industry. What is dubbed as the future of the world, alternative energy looks set to be the next booming industry. With the difficulty in sourcing fossil fuels coupled with increasing demand from emerging nations such as India and China, oil prices are on the rise. Studies also show that the world will soon reach Peak Oil – a date when the peak of the world’s crude oil production rate is reached. This can lead to post-peak production decline; the severe price increases that could ensue even poses negative implications to the future outlook of the global economy. With prices of oil on the rise in most nations, corporations around the world are researching and funding towards the development of alternative energy. In fact the number of publicly listed companies committed to the clean energy sector has risen in recent years as private 58

September 2010

equity firms and individual investors are attempting to position themselves in what will be the next big thing. Understandably there is doubt about the booming industry that is creating much hype globally. Yet, research shows that the growth rate of investing in alternative energy is doubling every two years. To top it, the efforts invested in a few decades back are bearing fruit now. The prices of renewable energy sources such as solar power, wind power and hydroelectric power are high but investors can be assured that the demand for usage of these energy resources will not decrease in future. Renewable energy is one of the largest industries in the world and helps in global economic development. Renewable energy resources are not cheap. Till a few years back they were extremely expensive. But with the increase in usage, the prices have dropped and will drop further with the demand going up. The benefits of renewable energy sources are limitless; not to forget being environmental friendly. As with all investments, it is often affordable investment during early stages of growth and will thus be beneficial in the long run when the demand increases. Without a doubt, investing in alternative energy is a

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Your best bet for finding eco-friendly stocks is to check out one of the socially responsible investment lists put out by organisations specialising in responsible money management

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surefire way for investors to have a positive impact on the environment while supporting green technologies. Recent data from Chicago’s HFR, the Alternative Energy index was up more than 47% in 2009, outperforming all other commodities throughout the year. The areas of investment to concentrate on include renewable energy consisting of solar power, wind power, geothermal, hydropower and biomass. Other related areas to consider investing in are ocean energy, hydrogen, fuel cells and energy conservation. The current uncertainty about the earth’s future energy supply makes investing in renewable energy an attractive option, especially for long term investors. Fossil fuels are not renewable forms of energy, thus they are going to run out. The BP Statistical Review of World Energy shows that there is only enough oil left on earth to last for approximately 42 years at the world’s current rate of consumption. Research by Clean Edge, a leading research firm that tracks and analyzes clean-tech markets and trends, shows that production and wholesale pricing of biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel reached $34.8 billion in 2008 and are projected to grow to $105.4 in 2018. Clean Edge also estimates that wind power will expand from $51.4 billion in 2008 to $139.1 billion in 2018, and solar power will grow from $29.6 billion in 2008 to $80.6 billion in 2018. Tips for green-investing The website www.greenyour.com, dedicated to green living offers the following tips for investors looking for more on the subject: Green-listed: Your best bet for finding eco-friendly stocks is to check out one of the socially responsible investment lists put out by organisations specialising in

responsible money management. They have relatively stringent standards for who’s allowed in, so you can weed out the ones that support nuclear or big oil. Trend-spotting: If you’re going to play the market, you’ll likely want to stay abreast of the trends in green investing. Here are some environment-focused publications that’ll get you going in the right direction: Green Money Journal: Get investment tips and news from this quarterly publication that’s been around for 15 years. Environmental Finance: This monthly magazine addresses investment- and environment-related issues. Winslow Management Company: A respected ecofriendly investing firm, Winslow Management publishes the Winslow Environmental News online, covering a variety of investing topics. GreentechMedia: Aiming to be the green tech source of choice, GreentechMedia provides clean technology news, research, and analysis. Mainstream listings: If you don’t want the hassle of doing the research yourself, you could try one of the mainstream indexes. The Financial Times and London Stock Exchange (FTSE) Good Index Series, for instance, lists socially responsible companies (rated according to several criteria, including environmental sustainability, labor standards, etc). Keep in mind, though, that there are no worldwide standards for measuring a company’s ecoperformance—some indexes list only the non-sinners while others list those that truly integrate green standards. If you’re looking for something more forward-thinking, the less stringent nature of this option may not work for you.

September 2010

Advertorial

A Pioneering Start While celebrating three successful years of operations in Oman, Gulf Property World continues to offer a seamless and impeccable service in the field of real estate.

ulf Property World (GPW) is one of Oman’s leading Property Service Companies and this year we are proud to be celebrating our third anniversary within the Sultanate. Our success has been the result of our dedicated team of experts led by myself Glenn Meek, and my wife Karen Meek, between us we share over 50 years of corporate sales and marketing experience. GPW was originally founded by a team realising the need to match the growing sophistication of Oman’s ever changing property market. With such a vision apparent, we are pleased today to offer a modern and dynamic real estate company, driven by enthusiastic people who continuously strive to meet and in many cases exceed our clients’ expectations. Our core business involves the sale and leasing of quality properties throughout central Muscat and within the Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs). The opening of two GPW outlets within Muscat has proved extremely successful and has quickly generated a large influx of new passing trade right from the outset. Our very popular and well known main branch is located in Shatti Al Qurum, one of the prime areas within Muscat and popular with locals, expatriates and tourists alike. Our second branch which is situated at Markaz Al Bahja Shopping Mall, is close to the city’s largest residential development The Wave, Muscat, making it an ideal meeting place for all our clients. The GPW website, www.gpw-oman.com is one of the most well known and visited websites in Muscat and is

September 2010

also popular with our international clients too. Recognised for it’s sheer variety of properties and the largest selection marketed in Oman, both for sale and for rent, with pages detailing descriptions, floor plans and numerous colour photographs of all our properties, our website is updated daily ensuring our customers can review the latest stock on the market at all times. We are renowned for our professional and exceptional staff who ensure clients receive an excellent and informative service. The real estate market has witnessed dramatic and fluctuating changes in the last three years and GPW with our team of professionals has grown and evolved equally also during this time to meet these new demands and challenges. One residential development which has also matured during this time is The Wave, Muscat. From delivering its first property to residents over three years ago, today it can be proud of completing 400 properties with another 260 still under construction. In addition, this new community will also feature 9 holes of the PGA Greg Norman Golf Course, a marina, cafes and restaurants all planned to open by the end of 2010. The Wave, Muscat properties are owned by various end users including investors looking for a return on their property, expatriates enjoying a place to holiday or retire and tenants and owners who enjoy the luxury of their own family home.

The property market has changed immensely from the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;off-planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; yesteryear. As the first villas were handed over, more realistic pricing set in, greater value for money on many re-sales was apparent and many properties are now ready for occupancy. To enjoy this luxury lifestyle you can rent a property from as little as RO 600 per month or even buy from as little as RO 73,500. GPW prides itself on forming close relationships between the developers and all major banks. As property owners ourselves we understand how stressful it can be to purchase a property and thus we endeavour to ease the process for our customers guiding you at

each step of the way. With most major banks now offering up to 80% home loans on all completed properties, buying your dream home has never been easier or more readily available to all. If you would like to know more about The Wave, Muscat, you are invited to join us for our next open day to be held in one of the villas on site. Please contact our office on 24697588 or e-mail us at info@gpw-oman.com for further details of this event or to discuss any of our properties either for sale or for rent. Glenn Meek Gulf Property World

Property of the Month Our Sales Property of the Month therefore is this one bedroom apartment, located in Neem, Al Marsa Village, positioned on the 2nd floor overlooking the gardens. It features a luxury fully fitted kitchen, complete with built-in appliances, living room with balcony and a deluxe master bedroom complete with en suite bathroom. This luxury apartment is for sale at only RO 73,500 ideal for a first time home owner or investor. Our other Property of the Month is this fantastic three bedroom Tombazis A1 villa, available for rent at RO 1200 per month. This property boasts a stylish fully fitted kitchen and breakfast bar which leads through to the open plan living area. Upstairs this property has three bedrooms with the master bedroom featuring a luxury bathroom and a large balcony overlooking the garden. This superior property offers excellent value for money.

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

September 2010

Advertorial

Poetic Justice Nasra Al Adawi is an established poet who has three published books, each of which is dedicated to humanitarian and charitable causes. Recognised for her contributions to the community, Nasra was selected by National Bank of Oman as one of the promising women role models in the Sultanate for their annual 2010 calendar

alented, ambitious and inspiring, Nasra Al Adawi does not require a formal introduction. An active campaigner of empowerment of Omani women and youth, Al Adawi is also renowned for her poems and writings, which focus primarily on cancer patients and their will to survive. While still young, Al Adawi lost her father to cancer after which life took a completely new turn for this budding poet. She decided to create awareness about cancer and the people affected by this deadly disease through her poems. It was then that she published her first collection of poems, titled ‘Collective Thoughts.’ It was published in 2002 and the proceeds from the book were dedicated to children affected by cancer being treated at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. Although poetry was something that Al Adawi loved right from her childhood days, she was determined to make it her career as she wanted to share her thoughts and feelings with the world. She initially started writing verses in Arabic and then later started writing in English as well. “I have always dreamt of sharing my poems with everyone around me and to the world. I learnt English, researched on the Internet and joined poetry classes to sharpen my writing skills. Since I never had the opportunity to get a formal education in writing, I was blessed with fantastic mentors who encouraged me to find my own creative

September 2010

space in poetry writing,” says Al Adawi. Two years after Al Adawi’s first book was published, she collaborated with the Oman National Association for Cancer Awareness and published another book of poetry titled ‘Within Myself: The Willpower to Live beyond Cancer.’ The proceeds were again used to benefit children suffering from cancer in Oman. “My second book was primarily based on bringing out the thoughts of women who had survived cancer and their life beyond it. The book contains real life examples for which I had to spend a lot of time with cancer affected women. I had to interact with them on a daily basis to be able to write about them. Initially I thought it was going to be very difficult but the experience was a big eye opener for me. It is not easy to face a woman who knows her future is not very positive and that she might not survive tomorrow. I realised that it was not just a matter of writing poems

and raising an amount to give away as charity. It was more than that. The whole experience was not only inspiring but enriching at the same time,” says Al Adawi. In 2005 Al Adawi collaborated with a young Omani photographer, Yarub Al Bakry, where they combined two artistic media; poetry with photography and held a charity exhibition. The funds raised from this collaboration benefited the Oman Charitable Organisation. Al Adawi’s desire to help her people is a testament of her current work portfolio. The young poet has been working at Tawasul for the last two years where she plays a major role in advocating CSR driven activities within the civil society of Oman. Tawasul was established in August 2008 and was the first national independent and professional nonprofit organisation in Oman serving locally while maintaining international standards. “At Tawasul, most of the initiatives undertaken are CSR driven activities. I get involved in activities that help raise awareness of women empowerment as well as empower civil society

organisations. I try my best to be an example to others by showcasing what women can do to survive in this country while being financially independent,” says Al Adawi. “When Tawasul conceptualised and launched the training programme for the election campaign for Omani Shura Council, I was made the Project Manager. It is amazing to see the positive response from women who come from different spheres of life,” says Al Adawi. So where does this talented woman draw her inspiration from? “I come from a very simple family and I draw my inspiration from them. I am very close to my family and society. My society is my driving force.” When asked about the launch of the NBO Dana Credit Card designed exclusively for women, Al Adawi said, “I think it is a great initiative by NBO. Women are the focal point of a family and it is important for a women to have a credit card that allows them to plan the cash flow for the Month. Having a flexibility of payment options on the card is a huge benefit. Women can choose to pay back 5%, 25%, 50% or 100% of the bill. Dana also allows a woman, luxuries at affordable prices with their 60 buy one get one free offers ranging from Beauty treatments, movie tickets Bowling, Restaurants and Magic planet. Women now have their very own credit card to help them make purchasing easy. No longer does a lady have to carry money around. All she needs is her credit card. “Aisha Al Kharusi who works with NBO is a pioneer herself. I think most Omani women look up to her for inspiration. She was the first Omani woman to have worked for Boeing. We need more women like her as role models who have different ideas and can help support the women of today.”

September September 2010 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!

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Automobilia

First Look w Drive September 2010

Automobilia

First Look

A Captivating Debut Aston Martin made a grand debut last month in the capital with the launch of a spanking new showroom that also heralded an envious line-up of five of its luxurious models Crème de la Crème Report

September 2010

he prestigious British sports car brand, Aston Martin finally made its much awaited debut in Oman last month amidst a packed crowd of sports car aficionados. The luxury brand’s first showroom was launched in the capital bringing the total number of Aston Martin dealers in the GCC to seven. As Aston Martin personifies the luxury sports car market, the launch was an exclusive and elegant affair that befitted the iconic status of the Aston Martin brand. Held at the Intercontinental Hotel, Muscat the launch drew its inspiration from Aston Martin’s 42-year association with the silver screen’s most debonair international spy James Bond. The result of course was an experience that was every bit as stylish and polished as Bond himself. The most celebrated among the star-studded guest list was a line-up of Aston Martin vehicles that included the iconic V8 Vantage, V12 Vantage, DB9, DBS and Rapide, all of which are going to be available for customers in Oman. Sheikh Al Muhannad bin Saeed Al Hashar said he was delighted that his company was representing such a globally renowned brand. “We look forward to building up a strong customer following in this country, where there is already strong interest in the brand.” Incorporating the British marquee’s key retail branding, the new Aston Martin showroom offers a private display area of 300 m2 and has been designed to house the full Aston Martin model range. When asked about the expectation and response to Aston Martin in Oman, Paul Varley, Sales Manager of Aston Martin Oman said, “From the time we started operations, we have received an encouraging response from the market. We expect to have at least 15-25 cars sold in one year within the local market. We are in the process

of setting up our service centre in Azaiba where customers will be able to get all the feedback and help on any of the models of Aston Martin that are available in Oman. The exclusive line-up of Aston Martin will definitely entice sports car lovers in Oman and is sure to maintain its status as one of the fastest and favourite sports car in the region. Aston Martin V8 Vantage Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage originally launched to widespread critical acclaim at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005 where it received significant technical enhancements in 2008, reaffirming the car’s position as one of the world’s most desirable and exhilarating sports cars. While the universally distinctive and award-winning shape of the V8 Vantage is retained, the car benefits from a number of technical changes which include significantly up-rated engine performance from a new 4.7 litre power unit in both Coupe and Roadster variants. Other changes include revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power and torque availability,

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Purposeful, striking and functional styling signals off the V12 Vantage’s performance capabilities. Aston Martin presented the most potent production sports car in the marquee’s 95-year history at the Geneva motor show September 2010

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The Aston Martin DBS is a sublime example of exquisitely detailed design, from the five handfinished alloy slats that form the main grille, to the power bulge on the carbon-fibre bonnet and the LED indicators in the classic Aston Martin cast metal side strake

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improved Sportshift™ transmission software and a new sports suspension option. The 4.7 litre V8 engine has a power output of 420bhp, providing the V8 Vantage with new reserves of mid-range performance, an improved 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and top speed of 180mph (288kph). The new forged steel crankshaft provides the 91mm stroke and incorporates new holes in the counter weights for reduced rotating mass and improved inter-bay breathing. New forged steel con-rods and cast aluminium pistons complete the capacity-related changes.

September 2010

The V8 Vantage transmissions have also undergone changes to improve performance and to handle the increased levels of power and torque. Both the standard manual stick-shift gearbox and the optional Sportshift™ transmission benefit from a modified clutch and flywheel, reducing clutch pedal efforts and delivering a 0.5kg weight saving, reducing the rotating masses within the powertrain and hence increasing engine responsiveness. The V8 Vantage also now benefits from Bilstein dampers as standard; these low-friction dampers provide improved levels of dynamic capabilities and further improve ride quality. Although the award-winning exterior design of the V8 Vantage remains largely unchanged, a new 20-spoke 19’’ alloy wheel is introduced as standard, with either diamond turned silver or graphite finishes available as options, offering customers maximum choice. In 2009 a number of new options were introduced for the V8 Vantage including the new Bang & Olufsen 1000w BeoSound Vantage audio system incorporating 13 speakers optimally placed throughout the cabin to ensure an accurate sound stage. Incorporating Bang & Olufsen’s Acoustic Lens Technology (ALT) motorised tweeter units mounted either side of the dashboard create a 180 degree dispersion of sound giving listeners an improved sense of space, staging and realism regardless of their location in the car.

V12 Vantage - Aston Martin’s most exhilarating sports car This model is the fastest and most agile Vantage ever and it is an ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range. Purposeful, striking and functional styling signals off the V12 Vantage’s performance capabilities. Aston Martin presented the most potent production sports car in the marquee’s 95-year history at the Geneva motor show. Based on the hugely successful V8 Vantage, the V12 Vantage features a 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 kp/h) time of 4.2 seconds. The latest incarnation of the Vantage family has been designed to provide a unique character, appealing to different driver tastes and complementing the other models in the current Aston Martin line-up. The original V12 Vantage concept was unveiled to guests at the opening of the Aston Martin Design Studio in December 2007. Continuing the marquee’s impressive record of bringing concepts through to production, Aston Martin engineers have brought the V12 Vantage to market in an incredible 12 months. Designed for the focused driver, every component of the V12 Vantage has been honed with pure driving enjoyment

in mind. Benefitting from race-developed materials and components and featuring lightweight carbon fibre; performance and agility have been tuned to perfection. Visually enticing, the V12 Vantage expresses its performance potential through its purposeful stance created by enhanced aerodynamic and cooling aids optically widening the car, while retaining traditional understated Aston Martin design. Equally inviting, the cosseting interior permits the driver to extract maximum performance ability from the car while also enjoying customary levels of Aston Martin comfort on longer journeys. High levels of power and torque are available at all engine speeds making the V12 Vantage responsive and tractable in any driving situation. The V12 Vantage is built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire joining the DBS, DB9 and V8 Vantage model lines which are built in the state-ofthe-art production facility combining hi-tech manufacturing processes with traditional hand-craftsmanship. Aston Martin DB9 Aston Martin introduced a revised version of the company’s critically acclaimed DB9 at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, which included significant enhancements to the standard specification. These changes include a revised version of Aston Martin’s 6.0 litre V12 engine to

September 2010

deliver improved power and torque. Peak power of 470bhp (350kW) – increased by 20bhp (30Nm) - is now reached at 6,000rpm, resulting in a power to weight ratio of 267bhp per tonne (199kW/tonne) – an increase of 11bhp per tonne over the existing DB9. Peak torque of 600Nm is delivered at 5,000rpm, aiding improved low engine speed and providing more accessible power for the driver, as well a greater performance feel overall. Accordingly, top speed is now 190mph (306km/h) and the benchmark 0-60mph time improves by 0.3 seconds for the Touchtronic transmission – which benefits from a new valve box and integrated transmission controls to achieve quicker gear shifts – to 4.6 seconds and by 0.1 seconds to 4.6 seconds for the manual gearbox. The DB9 manages to combine all facets of style, quality and usability of a traditional Aston Martin without relying on retrospective detail or design. Accordingly, styling changes to the revised DB9 are subtle, reflecting the car’s timeless design and understated elegance. Exterior styling changes include the introduction of a new standard 19’’ 10-spoke alloy wheel, new door mirrors and a revised anodised aluminium five-bar grille. The cabin changes include a new centre console constructed from die cast zinc with a painted iridium silver finish and the introduction of a new Emotion Control Unit (ECU) – first seen on the DBS in 2007. The ECU – constructed from glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate - replaces the key used previously for the DB9.

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From the time we started operations, we have received an encouraging response from the market. We expect to have at least 15-25 cars sold in one year within the local market

September 2010

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The car marked the beginning of a new era for Aston Martin and became the first car to be hand-made at the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Gaydon, Warwickshire. Aston Martin DBS In a world where innovation is all too often hampered by compromise, pure performance is a rarity available only to the genuinely discerning. Designed as the ultimate driving experience, the Aston Martin DBS bridges the gap between road and track – DB9 and DBR9. Equally at home on a twisting mountain circuit as on the open road, the DBS is a true thoroughbred. The Aston Martin DBS is a 6.0-litre V12 powered, racebred, two-seater shaped by the aerodynamic demands of high performance, with an exquisite interior that marries beautifully hand-finished materials with the very latest in performance technology. A combination of elegant design, innovative manufacturing processes, race-derived materials and components and Aston Martin’s unrivalled hand-build expertise makes the DBS a luxury sports car without equal. The DBS represents the synthesis of raw power, race-bred technology and design excellence. Powered by a hand-built V12 engine producing 380 kW (510 bhp/517 PS), the DBS delivers breathtaking power and performance. Beneath the flowing lines of the lightweight bodywork, the DBS’s components have been honed to create an exhilarating driving experience: taut, dynamic and monumentally fast, but always highly controlled. The DBS was developed as the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s engineering and technical ability. The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low kerb weight defined the car’s form and construction. The DBS is the first production Aston Martin to make extensive use of ultra-light carbon-fibre body panels. Its high level of performance is delivered by the combination of inherent light weight, near-perfect weight distribution, a supremely powerful and flexible V12 engine, and a performance-honed six speed transmission. The 6.0-litre V12 engine is the heart of the DBS. The unmistakable form of an Aston Martin, with flowing curves, complex surfaces and an unrivalled sculptural

Aston Martin’s presence in Bond movies The first Aston Martin to appear in a Bond film was a DB5 used in ‘Goldfinger’in 1964 Quantum of Solace marks the 10th appearance of an Aston Martin in a James Bond film. Newport Pagnell (Aston Martin’s Head Office at the time) paint shop was used in Diamonds are Forever.

beauty; the DBS is every inch a classic Aston Martin, from the hand-finished grille to the carbon-fibre rear diffuser. The aerodynamic excellence of the bodywork is unsullied by superflous spoilers or wings, allowing the lines to run cleanly from bonnet to boot lid. The design of the DBS conveys the car’s enormous potential, with a seductive flow that incorporates aggressive detailing and powerful stance. Like a well toned athlete in a figure-hugging suit, the bodywork of the DBS is a tight wrapping on the muscle that lies beneath, expressed in the taut lines and heavily sculpted flanks. The Aston Martin DBS is a sublime example of exquisitely detailed design, from the five hand-finished alloy slats that form the main grille, to the power bulge on the carbon-fibre bonnet and the LED indicators in the classic Aston Martin cast metal side strake. Every element is beautiful, yet strictly functional. Rapide: Pure Aston Martin - the World’s Most Elegant Four-Door Sports Car Aston Martin unveiled one of the most eagerly awaited cars of the year at the 63rd Frankfurt Motor Show last September. The elegant Rapide, functional yet luxurious provides space for up to four adults combined with an engaging driving experience synonymous with all Aston Martins. As the marquee’s first production four-door sports car, Rapide encapsulates core values of power, beauty and soul. The four ‘swan wing’ doors

provide access to cosseting sports seats both front and rear bestowing occupants with ample accommodation. Rapide’s rear environment has been intelligently packaged to create a space where passengers feel a part of the driving experience with clear views to the front and sides. Comfort and support is supplied in the form of two hand trimmed individual seats and a personal face-level heating and air conditioning system. Aiding the practicalities of everyday use, the luggage compartment features a movable bulkhead to permit access from the rear cabin while the rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button to create a flat loading space. At the heart of every Aston Martin lies an evocative engine providing effortless power and torque: Rapide

features a hand-built 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 470 bhp (477 PS / 350 kW) with peak power being delivered at 6000 rpm and 600 Nm (443 lbft) peak torque at 5000 rpm. A specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission features as standard, allowing the driver to change gear automatically or manually via the steering column-mounted magnesium paddles. Rapide has been developed from the ‘V/H Architecture’ platform which already forms the backbone to Aston Martin’s critically acclaimed line-up: the DBS, DB9 and Vantage.

September 2010

Automobilia

Drive

Audi A5 makes for a great sports car that is compact, quick and reliable. The coupe builds on the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy of creating outstanding and technologically advanced automobiles ď ŽScript: Anne Kurian

When five is company September 2010

ften, performance and design are two main criteria for choosing a luxury sports car. With the Audi A5, the reason could be either or both. The luxury coupe is amongst the few models in the automotive industry you wouldn’t be disappointed, whether it is performance or style that matters. The A5 is quite a stunner even from a distance. Subtle designs have been Audi’s trademark, and while this aspect is visible in the A5 too, there is a sharper streak of sportiness in this model that makes it a headturner. On closer look at the car, a few more Audi features catch your attention – xenon headlights and the trendy LED running lights. Up close with the A5 Inspired from the drawing board of A4, the coupe is fitted with a direct-injected 3.2-liter V6 that delivers 265 horsepower. Among its other highlights are the Quattro all-wheel-drive system and the option of choosing between a manual or automatic transmission. As with most sports models, the A5 has a low roof with low slung seats but then that’s expected of this genre of cars. The stylish coupe has rather generously proportioned doors for a sport car. As a result getting in and out of the car for rear seat passengers is not as difficult as it is many other models. The interior of the A5 is uber-stylish and the cockpit is just as elegant. The A5 is quite spacious; the rather large glass roof of the coupe that tilts open slightly enhances the roomy feel. Adding to the trend factor is the

coupe’s impressively designed dashboard that features all the controls. Multi Media Interface (MMI), proprietary of Audi, acts as the central systems control. The knob mounted on center console takes the driver or the front seat passenger through various functions of the MMI and is an absolute delight. From songs to Bluetooth to navigation to climate control, the MMI proved to be a reliable ‘partner’ in the coupe, especially once we mastered the act of navigating the MMI. Among the attention-grabbing elements of the coupe are the Bang & Olufsen’s 10-speaker stereo with CD player, controls for rear-seat passengers and the well-stitched in leather upholstery. Another highlight of the coupe is its rather generous

September 2010

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It’s best viewed from a distance, where you can appreciate the subtle line that forms the car’s shoulder, and the sweeping roof that flows down into the bootlid, ending in a tiny lip spooler

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trunk – 16.1 cubic feet and more extra space, the rear seats need to be just pulled back. We were totally impressed with the spaciousness. In a nutshell, the coupe is stylishly and ergonomically designed. A stunner on the outside, the A5 does not disappoint in the interior department either. The sleek dashboard was the most admired when we showed the car to friends and colleagues. Not to forget, the A5’s keyless

September 2010

start system that gained it a good number of golden stars. On the road Inside the A5 lies 265-horsepower, 3.2 litre V-6 engine that is responsive and quite powerful. The A5 is a smooth car to drive and moves with authority. The car has a refined elegance around it and this quality can be said about the A5’s performance too. Yet, when you do you want to rev it up (after all, who doesn’t want to behind the wheel of the luxury sporty coupe) then this baby is a performer. The A5’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system makes this coupe a driving friend for all weather conditions. The steering is firm and has good-turn-in, making the A5 reliable. The traction of the A5 makes it extremely efficient at curves and corners coupled with sharpness that is impressively noticeable. Our drive in the A5 was comfortable and enjoyable. We loved the fun, sporty personality of the car on the roads and the way the A5 took to various speeds as well as its responsiveness. Get on to the highway or less busy stretches and the A5 will show its true sporty colours.

A safe ride The coupeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s standard safety features include antilock brakes, traction control, front-seat side airbags and sidecurtain airbags. The A5 also has rear-parking sensors as well as camera that gives the rear view on the LCD screen atop the dash. The newest additions Audi has added a soft top Cabriolet and Sportback to the A5 family. Snazzy yet extremely attractive, the Cabriolet

is a serious option to consider for a convertible lover. The Sportback combines the classy look and elements of a coupe with the comfort factor of a saloon. A coupe for all seasons The A5 provides a thoroughly impressive ride with a peppy feel good factor. Power, luxury and panache are the key factors of this sporty coupe. Whether you are auto shopping for a coupe that is great ride or even a stylishly designed one, or both factors, the Audi A5 is a great choice.

September 2010

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 Inspiration w Decor September 2010

Art & Design

Canvas

If stones have life, then Marco Polo can feel it. This immensely talented Ecuadorian sculptor sees forms in the stones even before he has started work Script: Anne Kurian

hen a friend recently told me about Marco Polo, the first image that came to mind was of the Italian explorer who discovered the Silk Route. Yet the subject in discussion is an Ecuador born sculptor who is in Oman to do a private project. After seeing his sculptures, it is safe to refer to the sculptor also as a traveller. Through his sculptures, Marco Polo explores the forms of the human body in interesting and distinctive styles. Marco Polo’s sculptures are arresting and radiate energy, even in stone. The form in each of his sculptures that are made in marble speaks of the maker’s fondness for perfection and attention to detail. The sculptor who has worked in both Ecuador and London is happiest when he is working on the stones that he picks individually to create some of the most striking works. “I pick each of the stones that I work on. The moment I see the right stone I know what it has to be

September 2010

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I pick each of the stones that I work on. The moment I see the right stone I know what it has to be transformed into. It’s like the stones talk to me

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transformed into. It’s like the stones talk to me,” says Marco Polo. He in fact believes there is a soul in every stone, which prompts him to pick it up. The sculptor, who is from the capital of Ecuador, Quito, has been working in Oman on private commissioned work for the past one year. He personally visits the marble factories in Sohar and picks the stones. “I have found that the marble in Oman is softer than what we have back in Ecuador which is an advantage for the artist but you have to be more careful when handling it,” he says. Marco Polo uses both chisel and machines to create fascinating structures. When asked about the time he takes to create one sculpture Marco Polo says, “It depends on the method I implement to sculpt the stone. Roughly speaking, a 40 cm stone will take me at least three months to complete. Sometimes I finish sooner.”

So passionate is this artist about his work that he prefers not to be disturbed when he is working, which is from 8.30 in the morning till usually 7 pm. We scheduled a morning photo session with Marco Polo but then shifted it to afternoon when the artist requested a later session, as he didn’t want to take a break from his work. Such passion to work is not easy to come by these days! The sculptures that Marco Polo is currently working on is for a private commission but this artist will soon be exhibiting select works at a gallery in the city. One of his works is on display at the newly opened restaurant, Kurkum in Muttrah. Before coming to Oman, Marco Polo worked in London for four years mostly on private commissions. “It was a great and enriching experience. It was tougher for me to do my sculptures as the houses are built close to each other and the noise from the machines I use

September 2010

was disturbing for neighbours. So I used to sculpt all my work with the chisel,” he says. He also exhibited at Instituto Cervates, the official Spanish Government Cultural Centre in London. After his stint in London, Marco Polo went back to Ecuador where he worked and exhibited for the next two years. That was when he received an invitation to Oman. “Oman is different from London or Ecuador. I love the mountains, Corniche and the environment. It is quiet here and I can work the way I want,” he says. So does he miss home? “I feel at home wherever I am working. I don’t really miss Ecuador; my work keeps me happy and busy,” he answers. Marco Polo’s works are inspired by the human body,

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My work is abstract in form. When I see a stone, I see the concept of my work in it even before I have started sculpting. It is not easy for me explain my works; I feel every stone has a spirit in it and that is what guides me into creating the final result

”

September 2010

“

Oman is different from London or Ecuador. I love the mountains, Corniche and the environment. It is quiet here and I can work the way I want

but without the conventional forms of the anatomy. “My work is abstract in form. When I see a stone, I see the concept of my work in it even before I have started sculpting. It is not easy for me explain my works; I feel every stone has a spirit in it and that is what guides me into creating the final result.” Creating a sculpture is not an easy job, especially when the sculptor has to rely on the chisel to form the idea he sees on the stone. “Every time I break the stone with the chisel, my energy and soul goes into it. But then I receive the same from the piece I am working on and that is the reason I am able to work for a long time every day. It is essential to feel this energy within; else getting the job done is difficult,” he says.

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A student of the Universidad Central del Ecuador Art School, Marco Polo chose to specialise in sculptures in his third year. In the beginning he worked with clay and wood, but later chose marble to create the myriad forms that are truly fascinating. Henry Moore, Camille Claudel, Pablo Picasso and Botero are his favourite artists. The artist’s works will be exhibited soon in the city thereby giving the residents here a chance to view and get to know the gifted Marco Polo’s creative passion. (Special thanks to Murtadha Al Lawati and Roser Biosca in arranging the interview with Marco Polo.)

September 2010

Art & Design

Inspiration

I am inspired by…

have been interested in art from a young age. Colours have always inspired me. I used to read a lot when I was young, especially magazines. My mother used to subscribe to a women’s magazine at home in India called Femina and I used to love leafing through as it was one of the most colourful magazines around. In school, our art teacher used to tell us to reproduce works but I didn’t like that. I felt constrained and used to always draw something on my own. It was then that I started art classes with a teacher in Ahmedabad where our home is. Uttara Baronet, my teacher, was not an artist per se, but encouraged me to explore art without any restraints. She was one of my earliest inspirations. I learnt the basics of art from her and she never stopped me from doing what I wanted. I also learnt to do realistic art under her guidance. After moving to Oman, I decided to pursue art seriously when my sister-in-law encouraged me to join the Omani Society for Fine Arts. There I met a lot of Omani artists, learnt and exchanged ideas with them. I met Saud al Hinai, who

Radhika Hamlai, renowned artist who has contributed immensely to the Omani art scene through her work, says that colours, ancient sculptures and space inspire her Below: Joan Miro’s artwork

September 2010

Above: Radhika Hamlai’s artwork

taught me to do fantastic realistic work; it was different from what I had learnt before. I was inspired by the techniques and style he taught us. I also started exhibiting with other artists here and it was a great learning experience for me. On one of my trips to London, I visited the Tate Gallery of Modern Art and was amazed by the works there. I was struck by the works of Joan Miro. There is so much of space in his works yet it is constrained. His paintings are strong in character and yet Miro restricted the use of elements. Another artist who I have been inspired by is Mark Rothko. His art works are massive and I was amazed by the character in them. His works inspired me to create one of the largest canvases I have done that now hangs in Al Nahda Resort and Spa.

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Henri Matisse is another artist who inspires me a lot. The elements of exploration and contrast related to colours in his works are unique. After seeing his works in the Tate Gallery fo Modern Art, I started reading up on him and the theory of colours. This motivated me to learn to make my own colours. There was a time when I felt lost – I didn’t know where I was or where my art was headed. It was then that I exhibited with Anwar Sonya and Hassan Meer at the Indian Embassy in Oman. Anwar and I talked and exchanged a lot about art during that time. He helped me to understand my style and develop it further just through our constant conversations. Around the same time I started doing the Spirituality series that was received well by everyone.

Matisse is another artist who inspires me a lot. The elements of exploration and contrast related to colours in his works are unique

”

September 2010

Above: Radhika Hamlai’s artwork

I am also inspired by the Ajanta and Ellora caves in India. While visiting the caves, I suddenly saw images and figures take form in my mind. This inspired me to do a series of semi-figurative paintings, which got a great response. Two Indian artists who never fail to inspire me are Gopi Gajwani and Amrut Patel. Both of them are masters in their own rights. Gopi Gajwani’s paintings are incredible and he is an inspiration to young artists. He takes time to go and see exhibitions even by young and upcoming artists; he even spends time with them to discuss their works. Amrut Patel’s works have a lot of space in them yet there is lot of depth and thinking that goes into every work he creates. My inspirations have helped me change the way I think, to explore and create styles of my own. Above: Henri Matisse’s artworks

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Uttara Baronet, my teacher, was not a professional artist per se, but she encouraged me to explore art without any restraints

September 2010

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Art & Design

Décor

maan Ali Al Ajmi is barely 19 years old. Yet her knowledge and creativity belie her age. Counted among the youngest women entrepreneurs in Oman, Al Ajmi is the owner and creative head of the first wallpaper boutique in the city. Euroart, located in A’Sahwa Towers 1, Al Khuwair, specialises exclusively in wallpapers and was started by Al Ajmi along with her husband Hassan Al Zaabi after they realised there was a dearth of such stores. Though Al Ajmi has no formal education in interior décor or design, she is extremely passionate about the subjects. The display windows of Euroart make for fine examples. Dressed tastefully and elegantly, the windows on both sides of the wallpaper boutique feature the various products Euroart has complemented with props that enhance every window’s style. Be it a stylish European design or traditional Arabic look, Al Ajmi is adept at creating the desired look for homes and commercial establishments.

September 2010

Wall Art

On realising that Oman lacks an exclusive wallpaper store, enterprising couple Imaan Ali Al Ajmi and Hassan Al Zaabi have opened the first boutique – Euroart Crème de la Crème Report

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The variety of wallpapers at Euroart is staggering. There are currently 40 catalogues, each containing 100 designs to choose from

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Imaan Ali Al Ajmi and Hassan Al Zaabi

September 2010

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Chinese products have got a bad impression in Oman because of the third quality imports here. The suppliers or middlemen are responsible for this

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“Euroart is Imaan’s baby. She conceptualised and worked on the setting up of this project. Although she does not have a formal education in interior decoration, she has exceptional taste and a keen passion for design,” says Hassan Al Zaabi, who manages the business with her. Al Zaabi handles the finance and communication aspects of the business, while his wife is involved in running the business. The couple did various feasibility tests and also scoured the market for wallpapers and retail stores, which included visits to Dubai as well. “There were no individual wallpaper stores; if you wanted to buy wallpapers, you had to go to the regular upholstery or fabrication stores and the selection is limited,” says Al Zaabi. The couple then approached various factories in China that manufacture wallpapers. “We approached the factories directly as we wanted to ensure that the quality was not compensated, and we had direct access to the manufacturers,” says Al Zaabi.

September 2010

They then visited the factory of one of the manufacturers they had shortlisted in Shanghai. “We wanted to personally inspect and understand the production of the wallpapers. We were fascinated by what we saw at the factory. The factory is open 24 hours, seven days a week and the work goes on without a pause. We studied various samples and finally chose eight varieties, all from the same factory,” informs Al Zaabi. A common concern that could arise about the wallpapers is the ‘Made in China’ tag. “Chinese products have got a bad impression in Oman because of the third quality imports here. The suppliers or middlemen are responsible for this. They choose low quality products and thus clients do not trust the Chinese market,” says Al Zaabi. “That is the main reason we approached the factory directly, visited them and personally chose the wallpapers. A lot of luxury brands manufacture their products in China without compromising on quality. We are also particular about the quality of the wallpapers we get to Oman. We also advise our clients to check other outlets before ordering wallpapers from us as this allows them to understand the difference in quality.” The eight varieties of wallpapers available at Euroart are: Pure Paper, Natural, Metallic, Customised wallcoverings, Glow in the dark, Vinyl Paper, Non-Woven and Fabric. “Of these, the first five varieties are new in Oman. We wanted to offer the people in Oman more varieties than what was available here. Glow in the dark is especially suited for kids’ rooms though there are more designs coming in the future. Metallic is perfect for clubs, lounges, pubs and restaurants while pure paper can be recycled and is a popular choice in the West. We also offer clients the option

of customised wallpapers which are created using images of their choice,” explains Al Zaabi. The variety of wallpapers at Euroart is staggering. There are currently 40 catalogues, each containing 100 designs to choose from. Many designs are also available in a variety of colours, making Euroart the boutique with the largest selection of wallpapers in Oman. Euroart has a specialised team who handle the fixing of wallpapers both at homes and commercial outlets. “Even the glue we use is different from what is available in the market. The glue has been sourced from the same factory that manufactures the wallpapers,” says Al Zaabi, The boutique’s name was inspired by the themes of the wallpapers. “Most of the wallpapers feature European designs, although they are manufactured in China. So we decided to take that aspect to name the boutique,” says Al Zaabi.

September 2010

Gourmet & Hospitality

Culinaire w Review w Showcase September 2010

Gourmet & Hospitality

Culinaire

A Swiss Celebration Mokha Café in Grand Hyatt celebrated Swiss National Day on August 1. Members of the Swiss community and gourmet aficionados got together to enjoy the fantastic spread comprising of tantalising delicacies from Switzerland Script: Sudipta Dasgupta

September 2010

selection of authentic Swiss delicacies was prepared to usher in a unique Swiss celebration last month at Mokha Café in Grand Hyatt. Held on the 1st of August, The Swiss National Day was celebrated amidst much fanfare. Away from the snow capped mountains, valleys and lakes, my colleague and I experienced the magic of Switzerland here in the city of Muscat. Commemorating the celebration, the restaurant was adorned with traditional Swiss colours, music and a comprehensive selection of food that transformed the entire ambience into an exclusive European gathering. The highlight of the evening was the extensive Swiss specialty buffet that ranged from Alpine Air-Dried Beef to Chocolates, Cheese Fondue to Raclettes, Roesti and Zurich-style Veal. The salad, cold meats and fish section was prepared in true Swiss style with an array of tasty braised meat dishes with Spaetzli and Polenta to go with it. Since Switzerland is famous for its chocolates and cheese, I made sure not to miss any of the two that evening. As luck would have it, I started my culinary journey with the Swiss Cheese Platter, which was an absolute treat and could not stop with one serving. Marin A. Leuthard, Executive Chef of Grand Hyatt explained the importance of having such an exclusive culinary evening, “We celebrate the Swiss National Day every year by

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Most of the Swiss dishes originated in the mountains where it is very cold, one of the main reasons for the dishes being so rich, creamy and heavy. It is definitely not a light cuisine

â&#x20AC;?

September 2010

offering guests a wide selection of Swiss specialty food. We change the menu as per the availability of ingredients in the market with the exception of the cheeses which we import from Switzerland directly. Since Swiss cuisine is very rich in preparation, the selection of the menu is very important. The cuisine comprises of specialties from all corners of Switzerland. The idea is to mark the celebration with some authentic cuisine and offer our Swiss patrons a memorable time.” The evening witnessed a huge participation not only from the Swiss community of Oman and guests from the Swiss Embassy but other nationalities as well as members of Chaine Des Rotisseurs who came to enjoy the unique Swiss culinary treat. While there were several other cheese lovers like me, the one dish that many of us seemed to truly relish was the Raclette Valaisanne. The Raclette Valaisanne, or ‘melted cheese’ was served with roasted potatoes, bread, mustard and pickled onions. “Most of the Swiss dishes originated in the mountains where it is very cold, one of the main reasons for the dishes being so rich, creamy and heavy. It is definitely not a light

September 2010

cuisine,” says Executive Chef Leuthard. Having said that and to my surprise, I was already feeling stuffed after having one round of appetisers, my favourite being the Trout and Dill Terrine. With dessert still on my mind, I decided to taste only few items on the main course so that I could do justice to the food. The items on the main course that I sampled comprised of Creamy Vegetable Soup, Baked Salmon, Grilled Chicken, Garlic Mashed Potatoes; a Swiss delight and my favourite of the evening was Spaetzli with Cheese and Veil. The dessert section was a lavish spread and comprised several mouth watering items on the menu like Nut Tarts, Carrot Cake, Merringue Glace, Macaroons, Chocolate Fountain to name a few. My pick of the evening was a Swiss specialty called the Zough Kirsch Cake and Toblerone Chocolate Mousse. We enjoyed an evening of true culinary delight with some of our friends from the Swiss community and Chaine Des Rotisseurs and were completely enthralled by the service and Swiss hospitality that was offered to us by the hotel.

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The cuisine comprises of specialties from all corners of Switzerland. The idea is to mark the celebration with some authentic cuisine and offer our Swiss patrons a memorable time

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About Swiss National Day

Marin A. Leuthard, Executive Chef, Grand Hyatt Muscat

The first of August is a day of flag waving and celebration for the Swiss - it is their official national holiday to celebrate the allegiances that marked the formation of Switzerland as an entity. It was declared an official national holiday in 1993 and first celebrated on an annual basis in 1994. It is today celebrated each year on 1st August with town-wide paper lantern parades, bonfires, hanging strings of Swiss flags, fireworks and a gourmet selection of Swiss delicacies. On this day, Switzerland and its visitors gather in important public places to listen to speeches on the events of 1291 which was the beginning of the Swiss Confederation as we know it today. Unlike most countriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Swiss National Day is not about celebrating a revolution or a breaking up of a nation but rather, the coming together of different cultures and regional nationalities. Switzerland is a delightful composition of the French, the Germans, and the Italians in terms of medieval nationalities and more recently has added many immigrants from Austria, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and many other countries who are residents or who are now naturalised Swiss citizens.

September 2010

Gourmet & Hospitality

Review

Bon Appétit! 96

September 2010

The quaint French eatery in Muttrah, La Brasserie offers authentic treats from the fascinating European nation. The three-floor restaurant offers a lovely dining experience to foodies Crème de la Crème Report

uttrah may not seem like the place where a quintessential French eatery restaurant would make its home. The old town of Muscat is more renowned for small cafes that have gained a notable reputation for their simple yet sumptuous sandwiches and fresh juices. Yet, it is in this bustling and charming part of town that La Brasserie has opened. The quaint French restaurant is run by Claude Berquier and Elise Schwalb, an enterprising mother-daughter duo. Before moving to Oman, the duo used to operate a Frenchstyle boutique hotel called La Maison d’Hotes in Jumeirah, Dubai. The French restaurant at this hotel won acclaim from various quarters. Berquier used to visit Oman during her eight-year tenure in Dubai and was enchanted with the Sultanate. “Oman has always been a lovely place to visit and when we got the opportunity to open a French restaurant, I knew it had to be here. I have always found the Sultanate to be beautiful and charming,” says Berquier. The brasserie is situated just opposite the fish market and the obvious concern is the smell of the surroundings wafting in to the restaurant. “We won’t deny that on Fridays there is a slight smell of fish around but that is about the only time. But we still get a good crowd during the weekend,” informs Berquier. We visited the brasserie twice and must admit that there was no smell to complain of.

September 2010

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Oman has always been a lovely place to visit and when we got the opportunity to open a French restaurant, I knew it had to be here. I have always found the Sultanate to be beautiful and charming

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September 2010

While there are restaurants serving French food in the hotels, La Brasserie could very well be the first stand-alone French restaurant in town. The restaurant has a delectable and concise menu that is split into two – breakfast and lunch-dinner. The breakfast menu comprises dishes you would find in most restaurants - cereal, criossants, toast, eggs, sausages and the like. Yet the eggs are prepared in the typical French style, which makes it light and airy. A French delicacy on the breakfast menu is the pancake that originates from Northern Brittany. “It is a thick crepe that is very different from the typical American or flat pancakes that most restaurants serve. These pancakes are made with a special batter and using a unique mode of preparation,” says Schwalb. A wide selection of beverages comprising of coffee, teas and juices add to the breakfast experience. The lunch-dinner menu is more comprehensive and includes a wide variety of authentic dishes from different parts of France. A unique feature in the menu is the Les Grandes Assiettes that offers starter, main course and dessert on a wooden plate to the guest. We tried the fish and steak dishes for lunch; the dishes got full marks from us. Flavoursome and succulent, the steak was served with a large portion of greens and green pepper sauce. The fish in light aromatic sauce was tasty, light and bursting with flavour. The French never overdo on sauces, condiments or spices. Yet their cooking style brings out the best of flavours. And this is what we experienced at La Brasserie. The kitchen is headed by French chef Raphael Kinimo, who worked with the mother-daughter duo at La Maison d’Hotes. Kinimo has worked with master chefs from France and is a talented chef himself – the food we relished at La Brasserie was proof enough. The brasserie does not have an extensive array of desserts, but they do have a delectable choice. We opted for Madeleines – the typical tiny French cakes and a large chunk of Banana Date cake. We were stumped! The Madeleines were soft and sweet with a tinge of citrus flavour – the perfect combination with the freshly brewed coffee we had ordered for. And if you are not careful, there are chances of going overboard with those tiny French treats. The banana date cake tasted just as if you would have made it at home – buttery yet light and rich with the flavours of banana and succulent dates. The desserts got golden stars from us.

La Brasserie is set across three floors – the lower floor houses the restaurant, while the next level is designed more to be a tea or coffee lounge though dining is also permitted here. The topmost level features open-air seating and is best suited for when the climate is cooler. There are also seats outside the restaurant and is great to enjoy a cup of coffee or tuck into a hearty lunch when the weather permits. Berquier plans to add more variety and even change the menu after Ramadhan. What though will not change is the authentic French flavours at La Brasserie!

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A unique feature in the menu is the Les Grandes Assiettes, that offers starter, main course and dessert on a wooden plate to the guest

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September 2010

Gourmet & Hospitality

Showcase

An exclusive society dedicated to bringing together fine food aficionados, Chaine des Rotisseurs has a long and traditional gourmet history. In November 2009, the Oman Chapter of the Chaine opened in Muscat, which has created quite a name for itself in a short span of time Crème de la Crème Report

The Connoisseur Club 100

September 2010

a Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, more popularly known as Chaîne des Rôtisseurs was started in Paris in 1950. The society dedicated to celebrating gourmet pleasures and fine dining is believed to have its origins during the time of King Louis XI in 1248. Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’s members include professional and non-professional individuals from various walks of life united by their passion for fine cuisines. The Oman Chapter of this historical society was launched in the city on November 14, 2009. The inaugural event held at Grand Hyatt Muscat saw the members being sworn in to the society by a senior delegate from Paris. The city’s elite gastronomical society currently has 50 members. Entry to the society is by invitation only. The Oman Chapter was started by accomplished chocolatier and pastry chef, Joachim Antonio Caula, the President of the society. The title conferred on him is Bailli Délégué, Bailliage of Oman.

“The Chaine has been launched to introduce and celebrate fine food. The members are all individuals who appreciate gastronomy. Therefore we are very selective when it comes to choosing the members,” says Caula, who also started the Turkey chapter a few years back. He was supported in setting up the Oman chapter by the key members Shawqi Sultan, Sumithra Raju, Michael Armstrong, Thomas John, Christophe Franzen and Maurice Gent. Every Chaîne chapter, currently present in over 120 countries, is part of the main organisation in Paris and all the members enjoy tremendous benefits by being part of this exclusive society. Considered to be one of the oldest gastronomical societies in the world, the Chaîne offers transferable membership. A member can transfer his or her membership from one country to another when moving for personal or professional reasons.

“Being a member of the Chaine also lets you participate in the events and activities of other chapters around the world as every member automatically becomes a part of the international network,” says Caula. Among the various activities planned by the Bailli Délégué of the Oman society are exceptional dinners and fine cuisine events. Although most of the fine dining events are Black Tie, less formal gatherings are also held. The Bailliage of Oman organised a spectacular evening of fine food and drama early this year at the Al Bustan Palace InerContinental Hotel titled Teatro Alla Scala that was attended by Marquis Leonardo Frescobaldi, the head of one of famous aristocratic families in Europe. This was followed by a less formal dining occasion held at the Crowne Plaza Muscat. The members of the society have also got together to attend various other smaller yet unique dining events. Often, the menus and dishes are specially created for the Chaine’s events by the participating chefs.

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Membership of the Chaîne offers the opportunity for new members to meet people who share a common interest in fine dining and good fellowship

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One of the initiatives of the Chaine des Rotisseurs is to support and promote young chefs worldwide. Each chapter works with selected chefs in the respective countries to participate in Jeunes Commis Rôtisseurs Competition, held annually to hone and demonstrate their skills. Competitions are at regional, national and international levels and are open to young chefs under the age of 27. Efforts are on to help young Omani chefs. “We are in talks with the National Hospitality Institute to work with young Omani chefs and also help them participate in the competition in the future,” informs Caula. “These chefs will be trained to work in various hotels and improve their skills. This will help in developing a group of professional, internationally trained chefs thereby bringing a new chapter in cooking as well as hospitality in Oman.” Special and distinctive events are being planned by the Bailli Délégué of the Oman chapter to be held in the forthcoming months, some of which will be open to a limited number of guests who are not Chaines des Rotisseurs members. 102

September 2010

The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs History The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an international gastronomic society founded in Paris in 1950. It is devoted to promoting fine dining and preserving the camaraderie and pleasures of the table. The Chaîne is originally based on the traditions and practices of the old French royal guild of goose roasters – the goose, a type of poultry, was particularly appreciated during the Middle Ages. Its authority was gradually expanded to include the roasting of all poultry, meat and game. The written history of the guild of“Les Oyers”or“Goose Roasters” has been traced back to the year 1248. At that time King Louis IX, later to be Saint Louis, assigned Etienne Boileau, the Provost of Paris, with the task of bringing order into the organisation of trades and guilds, developing young apprentices and improving the technical knowledge of guild members. He gathered together the charters of more than 100 of these trades, among them the Goose Roasters. Over the years, the activities and privileges of the Goose Roasters Guild were extended to preparing and selling all kinds of meat, including poultry and venison. In 1509, during the reign of King Louis XII, some new statutes were introduced, which resulted in the change of the name of the guild to “Rôtisseurs”and its activities were restricted to poultry, game birds, lamb and venison. In 1610, under King Louis XIII, the guild was granted a royal charter and its own coat of arms. The original coat of arms consists of two crossed turning spits and four larding needles, surrounded by flames of the hearth on a shield. For over four centuries the “Confrérie” or brotherhood of the Roasters cultivated and developed culinary art and high standards of professionalism and quality – standards befitting the splendour of the “Royal Table” - until the guild system was disbanded, together with all others, in 1793 during the French Revolution. The Rôtisseurs were almost forgotten until 1950 when Dr. Auguste Becart, Jean Valby and “Prince” Curnonsky (pen name of Maurice Edmond Sailland, a French writer, novelist, biographer and gastronome)) and chefs Louis Giraudon and Marcel Dorin resurrected the Society and created La Confrérie de la

Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. For the new Confrérie, a logo was created which used the former historic shield in the centre. It was encircled with fleur-delis and two chains, between which the new name of the Society and the foundation dates of 1248 and 1950 were written. The inner chain represents the professional members; the outer chain the non-professional members and the bond, which unites all of the members. Since its rebirth the society has grown dramatically, spreading its influence and presence worldwide. Today, the Chaîne brings together professional (such as chefs, restaurant and hotel owners and managers) and non-professional members from around the world who share in the “spirit” of the Society and who appreciate and enjoy wine and fine dining. This association of people dedicated to fine cuisine, now devotes itself to promoting and developing the gastronomic values whilst at the same time widening its focus to‘table art’. While a confrérie is a“brotherhood,”women have always been welcome and they take an active role in the Society. By reviving the traditions most deeply rooted in French culture, the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is restoring a heritage that was never really lost. Within the Chaîne there is also the “L’Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs” for those members who have a special knowledge of, or interest in, spirits. Membership of the Chaîne offers the opportunity for new members to meet people who share a common interest in fine dining and good fellowship. For the professional members, such as chefs, restaurateurs and hoteliers, it offers opportunities to demonstrate their exceptional skills and creativity to a discerning, appreciative audience. Members receive an especially warm welcome in these establishments. The international headquarters (Siege Mondial) remains in Paris where the society was founded and the present day Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is still based on the traditions and practises of the ancient French brotherhood but now in a truly international and contemporary context. (Reprinted with permission from the official Chaines des Rotisseurs website)

September 2010

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Unwind - Unbecome - Unleash! Liberate your senses…

1st. Floor, Khyber Restaurant, CBD Main Street, Next to NBO Head Ofﬁce Timings: Sat to Thu 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 2am Fri 2pm to 2am 24781901 97015530

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Travel & Lifestyle

Destination w Escape w Lounge September 2010

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Travel & Lifestyle

Destination

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Yuyuan Garden is the largest of Shanghai’s ancient gardens with Ming and Qing architectural styles. It was designed in a way that the five elements were represented in the garden – building, forest, mountain, water and fish

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MYSTERIOUS, MEMORABLE CHINA

A journey through the country that has one of the oldest civislisations in the world, China. Lively, rich and steeped in immense culture, this country has few in comparison Script: Karina Neelambaran

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September 2010

don’t know when exactly China embedded itself in my mind; whether it was after reading Pearl S. Buck’s famous novel THE GOOD EARTH (the story of family life in a Chinese village before the 1949 Revolution) or seeing the 1958 film THE INN OF THE SIXTH HAPPINESS (based on the true-life story of Gladys Aylward, a Christian missionary’s experiences in China during the 1930s)! There was a mysterious quality about the country which held a fascination for me every time I thought about it! A dream I thought would remain just a dream! But that beautiful dream blasted into reality when I found myself and family on an airplane winging towards Beijing! And so started a journey of incredible wonder and awe that will remain with us, always! Time was a constraint so we could choose only three cities for our itinerary – Beijing, Xian and Shanghai! Night had fallen when the aircraft touched down on China’s capital city and we made our way into Beijing Capital International Airport’s Terminal 3, the second largest airport terminal in the world, 2900 meters long from north to south. The vastness of the place took our breath away (looking up at the roof was like looking up into the sky!), even more so when our guide herded us into a mini-train to collect our luggage from the baggage claim area! That was a first for us!

held, paper kind!) to ward off the heat, and oh yes, we also made good use of the wheelchairs our guide had arranged for the “elders” in our small group! From the Square we proceeded to the magnificent Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. It has 9,999 rooms in flourishing period with just a single room short of the number that ancient Chinese belief represents ‘Divine Perfection’ and surrounded by a moat six meters deep and a ten-meter high wall. For five centuries, this palace functioned as the home of emperors and their households, as well as the ceremonial and political centre of Chinese governments, from the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty. The Forbidden City was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is listed by UNESCO as “the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world”. Driving through the city we passed landmarks like the Olympic Park, where the well known Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (Beijing Aquarium) sit. The two buildings stand opposite each other, with the Bird’s Nest on the east side and the Water Cube on the west side. We also visited a Teahouse and participated in a tea ceremony, trying out the various kinds of tea each of which we were told had their own special qualities to improve one’s health.

BEIJING: The heart of China is always the first choice of travellers who are willing to know a time-honored and developed city. It is also the political, economic and cultural centre of China for over 800 years from the Yuan Dynasty! And as the host city of the 2008 Olympic Games, this oriental ancient city proved she could be as modern and fashionable as the rest of them! Our first stop was the famous Tiananmen Square, the largest central city square in the world, which serves as a symbol for not only Beijing but also for the whole of China. This immense courtyard is the site of various historical events and is surrounded by a variety of significant edifices such as the Great Hall of the People, the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall and the Monument to the People’s Heroes. It is named after the Tiananmen (Gate of Heavenly Peace) which sits to its north, separating it from the Forbidden City. I must caution would-be travelers to prepare for a long, long walk! Despite the threat of rain, it was extremely hot and we were glad to have hats and fans (of the hand-

Day Two, it was on to the Great Wall of China, one of the ‘Eight Wonders of the World’. This immense wall (its total length has been estimated at about 600 kilometers) was built to keep out invaders as well as to retain the inhabitants. It spans five provinces from Shanhaiguan Pass in the east to Jiayuguan Pass in the west, looking like a gigantic dragon across deserts, grasslands and mountains. There were hordes of tourists here too, all gamely climbing up the steep steps that seemed to go on forever. This writer however, took one look and decided that that was as far as she could go! Unfortunately the cable cars that took people up to a certain spot on the Wall were disabled. Next it was on to the Summer Palace (literally “Gardens of Nurtured Harmony” although it started life as the “Garden of Clear Ripples” – the Chinese have a very picturesque way for describing people and places). The Palace is mainly dominated by the Kunming Lake which was entirely man made and the excavated soil was used to build Longevity Hill (60 meters high). The palace September 2010

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complex suffered two major attacks in the late 1800s and 1900 but was restored in later years to its original glory. It served as a summer resort for Empress Dowager Cixi, who diverted 30 million taels of silver, originally designated for the Chinese navy, to the reconstruction and enlargement of the Summer Palace. In December 1998, UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List. It declared the Summer Palace “a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value.” It was peaceful just walking along and soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. Since religion was always related with the supreme imperial power, Beijing at one time served as the focus of religious life with lots of beautiful temples. The Temple of Heaven, where the Emperors paid homage to the glory of heaven, is the largest group of structures in the country dedicated to rituals. Opposite, the Altar of Earth was used to worship the God of the Earth. There is also the Great Bell Temple, where the Emperor prayed for rainfall in the Qing Dynasty. The Temple of Heaven, literally the Altar of Heaven is a complex of Taoist buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing. The complex was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. It is regarded as a Taoist temple, although Chinese Heaven worship, especially by the reigning monarch of the day, pre-dates Taoism. Another place of interest was the Chinese Ethnic Culture Park, also known as China Nationalities Museum,

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which has a large ethnic culture base combining an introduction to culture, singing and dancing performances, traditional housing and art and craft while providing the opportunity to experience ethnic flavored cooking of 56 ethnic groups. There are many attractive scenic spots in the park. The big banyan tree symbolises the 56 ethnic groups banding together. The Ethnic Bridge which connects the north and south park adopts the architectural styles of Bai, Dong and Zang People. The Tenggeli Waterfall which falls from 161-feet high is the biggest man-made waterfall in China. XIAN: The second city on our list Xi’an, records the great changes of the country just like a living history book. Called Chang’an (meaning the eternal city) in ancient times, Xian is one of the birthplaces of the ancient Chinese civilization in the Yellow River Basin area. Xia’an was also the eastern terminal of the Silk Road and the site of the famous Terracotta Warriors of the Qin Dynasty which I was looking forward to seeing. It was discovered as recent as 1974 when a group of peasants uncovered some pottery while digging for a well near by the royal tomb. It caught the attention of archeologists who came in droves to study and extend the digs. They had established beyond doubt that these artifacts were associated with the Qin Dynasty (211-206 BC). The excavation unfolded a strong army of altogether 7,000 life-size pottery soldiers, horses, chariots and weapons arranged in battle formations symbolically, guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The grand Mausoleum of the first emperor of Qin and the warriors and horses buried in loess for over 2,000 years amaze every visitor there. The first sight of the rows and rows of soldiers

Called Chang’an (meaning the eternal city) in ancient times, Xian is one of the birthplaces of the ancient Chinese civilization in the Yellow River Basin area

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In December 1998, UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List. It declared the Summer Palace a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design

and horses stopped us in our tracks and we could only gaze in wonder at the sight before us! What was amazing was that each and every soldier had different and distinctive features, not one resembled another! It was interesting to watch archeologists continuing with their work and we marveled at the care and delicacy with which they handled the fragile pieces. Another truly awesome site was the Ancient City Wall. Adorned with a moat and the circular park, the wall surrounds the square inner city of Xian. It is the most complete city wall to survive in China, as well as being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world, built first in the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and renovated in recent years. Since the ancient weapons did not have the power to break through a wall and the only way for an enemy to enter the city was by attacking the gate of the city wall, complicated gate structures were built within the wall. In Xian, the city wall includes four gates and they are respectively named as Changle (meaning eternal joy) in the east, Anding (harmony peace) in the west, Yongning (eternal peace) in the south and Anyuan (forever harmony) in the north. The south gate, Yongning, is the most beautifully decorated one. Important greeting ceremonies organised by the Provincial Government are usually held in the south gate square. We climbed up to the ramparts where there were all sorts of sinister-looking ancient weapons but the view beyond was breathtaking! As the symbol of the old Xian, Big Wild Goose Pagoda

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is a well-preserved ancient building and a holy place for Buddhists. It is located in the southern suburb of Xian City. Standing in the Da Ci’en Temple complex, it attracts numerous visitors for its fame in the Buddhist religion, its simple but appealing style of construction, and its new square in front of the temple. One might ask why it is called Big Wild Goose Pagoda. According to ancient stories of Buddhists, there were two branches, for one of which eating meat was not a taboo. One day, they couldn’t find meat to buy. Upon seeing a group of big wild geese flying by, a monk said to himself: “Today we have no meat. I hope the merciful Bodhisattva will give us some.” At that very moment, the leading wild goose broke its wings and fell to the ground. All the monks were startled and believed that Bodhisattva showed his spirit to order them to be more pious. They established a pagoda where the wild goose fell and stopped eating meat. Hence the name! SHANGHAI: And finally to Shanghai, a vigorous and energetic international metropolis! There was much to see and first on the list was the Jade Buddha Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist shrines in Shanghai. The White Jade Buddhas were brought here from Burma in the nineteenth century. One is seated while the other is in the recumbent position of Sakyamuni symbolising the Buddha’s attainment of enlightenment or nirvana. The temple also has some impressive images of the Heavenly Kings. Although it is a place of worship, visitors are welcome.

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We also visited a Teahouse and participated in a tea ceremony, trying out the various kinds of tea each of which we were told had their own special qualities to improve one’s health Yuyuan Garden is the largest of Shanghai’s ancient gardens with Ming and Qing architectural styles. It was designed in a way that the five elements were represented in the garden – building, forest, mountain, water and fish! The garden has six areas, each with its own style. The Grand Rockery, in the center of the Garden, is the most renowned sight. However, the true treasure of Yuyuan Garden is the Exquisite Jade Rock, one of the three famous rocks in the southern region of the Yangtze River. (The other two are Duanyun Feng in Suzhou and Zhouyun Feng in Hangzhou.) The rock is 3.3 meters in height and has 72 holes. What is interesting about this rock is that if you burn a joss stick just below the rock, the smoke will magically float out from all of the holes. Similarly, when you pour water into the rock from top, the water will flow out from each hole creating a spectacular sight to see. Huangpu River is not only the mother river of Shanghai, which divides the city into east and west parts, but also assembles the splendid tourist attractions of the city. Situated on the east bank of the Huangpu River, the Bund is the symbol of Shanghai. New finance and commercial houses as well as grand buildings built in 1930s in the European architectural styles cluster along the Bund. At night bright lights add to the happy atmosphere as people stroll along the wide riverside promenade. We enjoyed the night boat cruise that turned the Shanghai skyline into a fairyland of twinkling lights! Nanjing Road is considered to be the ‘No.1 commercial street in China’, which has been a landmark for this city for a long time. The best way is to walk along its 5.5 kilometers, where one can find over 600 shops that on average are

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visited by some 1.7 million people each day. Here, one could purchase everything wanted, spanning from special and cheap souvenirs of Shanghai to the luxurious world famous brands. For tired feet, there is a train-cum-bus that takes passengers up and down the road! In conclusion, for those interested in shopping, we saw a variety of traditional handcrafts in the many business streets and markets. Cloisonne (combining the techniques of making bronze and porcelain ware, as well as those of traditional painting and sculpture), Ivory Carving, Jade and Lacquer are known as the four best traditional handiworks of Beijing. In addition, Curios, Silk, Pearls, Snuff Bottles with Pictures Inside, and Artificial Flowers are other products worth buying and well liked by tourists. Candied Fruits and confectionaries of all kinds also make wonderful presents for friends. It is said that there are two things that you must do when visiting Beijing: one is to enjoy the Beijing Roast Duck and the other is to take a stroll on the Great Wall! Having experienced the first and a little of the second, I feel quite happy and satisfied! Of course we could not visit all the cities or see all the sights but given the chance, I would love to go again and catch up on all that I missed! Karina Neelambaran is a voracious reader as well as movie buff. She has an enviable collection of books and movies, some of which are rare to find these days. Travelling is one of her other passions and never misses an opportunity to explore. An animal lover, Karina has around 20 stray cats at home. She also has a large number of penpals even in this age of technology.

Wishing you a joyous Eid and happy moments with your loved ones

Travel & Lifestyle

Escape

A Grand Retreat Considered one of the finest hotels in Switzerland, The Dolder Grand, Zurich, received a warm welcome when it reopened for business in 2008 after four years of renovation. Contemporary luxury has been woven impeccably with the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine fabric of history that provides guests with an exceptional experience ď ŽScript: Anne Kurian

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ictures do not really do enough justice to one of the most iconic properties in Zurich â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Dolder Grand. Set atop a hillside that overlooks lush greenery, thick woods and the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own golf course, not to forget the city, The Dolder Grand is what hospitality dreams are made of. As the car makes its way up to the hotel, the sight that looms ahead could catch even the seasoned traveller unaware. The majestic hotel is a picture of sophistication, beauty and tranquility. The hotel that is reminiscent of fabled palaces from legends and fairy tales with its enchanting turrets commands attention from the moment you set eyes on this historic property. The Dolder Grand is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and the Swiss Deluxe Hotels. Marrying tradition with modernity Within minutes of arriving at the hotel, it is easy to forget that you are just minutes away from the financial hub of the city. The Dolder Grand was originally a spa hotel set up in 1899 and underwent a massive renovation that last four years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from 2004 to 2008. When it reopened, the hotel had been transformed into a luxurious city resort that retained its antiquity charm.

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From just about any room in the hotel, you are guaranteed a fantastic view. The 173 rooms and suites are uniformly high-tech; curtains, flat-screen television and lighting are all operated from bedside zappers

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We met Thomas Schmid, the General Manager of The Dolder Grand who oversaw the renovation of the hotel. “To have been a part of The Dolder Grand’s renovation and redesign is an absolute honour. The hotel has been among the most sought addresses for world leaders, celebrities and discerning travellers. Ever since we have reopened it has been a delight to welcome back old and new guests to The Dolder Grand,” said Schmid. The main building of the hotel has not undergone much change and much of its elegant features have been retained. Two new wings were added to either side of this

grand building giving the resort the modern touch. The golf wing’s view includes the thick woods just behind the property and the lush golf course. The spa wing’s view includes the golf course as well as the Alps and the city. Whichever room you choose, the view is heartwarming. The reception is situated in the grand old main building through which you enter the hotel and is the signature of magnificence. The lobby is large and makes for a great place to have business meetings as does the adjoining smaller rooms. The old world charm is very much intact in the old building. The hotel is believed to have played host to people like Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, Shah of Iran, Henry Kissinger, the Rolling Stones and many others. But even the hotel’s famous past guests’ registry did not prepare me for the two celebrities I spotted at The Dolder Grand – Leonardo Di Caprio and Boris Becker! The hotel’s Garden Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; and this is where our photographer and I came across Di Caprio who was having breakfast with his parents. The actor was in Zurich to attend BaselWorld 2010, Di Caprio is the brand ambassador for Tag Hueur. The hotel is chosen by many celebrities and the rich and famous for the privacy it provides; so disturbing Di Caprio and his

parents did not seem a great option though reason could have been flung out of the window! As for Becker, he, our photographer and I shared the elevator as we were staying in the same wing – the Spa Wing. A couple of words were shared but we decided to respect the star’s privacy as we had been told that most celebrities preferred to be left alone. Rooms with views From just about any room in the hotel, you are guaranteed a fantastic view. The hotel has 173 rooms and suites. All the rooms in the new wings have exclusive balconies, wide windows and exquisite décor. The main block is charmingly old-world – rooms have traditional

furniture and hand-painted wallpaper. The hotel has four luxurious suites. Our favourites were the Rolling Stonesinspired Suite 100 done up in 60s retro designs and colours (fuchsia and black), and the Karajan-inspired Maestro suite on two levels, with a grand piano, harp, reading room, and roof terrace. All rooms are equipped with a mini gadget that allows you to control the curtains, flat-screen television and lighting while lounging in your bed or just about any corner of your room. The rooms are luxuriously appointed - sleek decor, comfortable bed, Bang & Olufsen flat-screen TVs, writing table and chairs out in the balcony. The marble bathroom by itself is a remarkable and split into three. The room you walk into features two sinks and a stand-alone bathtub complete with bath and sea salts that faces a flatscreen TV built into the wall. Now that’s what I call absolute pampering! The shower and toilet rooms are each separated from the main area by opaque glass doors. What a spa! The Dolder Grand Spa has been in the news ever since they reopened after the renovation. Spread over 4000 square metres, the spa has been inspired by European and Japanese elements; it was created by the American spa designer Sylvia Sepielli. The spa features a large pool

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But even the hotel’s famous past guests’ registry did not prepare me for the two celebrities I spotted at The Dolder Grand – Leonardo Di Caprio and Boris Becker

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offering panoramic views, women’s and men’s spas, saunas, workout and mind-body studios, as well as 19 massage and treatment rooms and two spa suites for exclusive, private treatments. The spa also features a health-food bar complete with spa-specific nibbles and beverages. Taste of Zurich We dined at The Restaurant, one of the most exclusive dining addresses in the country. The well-designed restaurant features exquisite and fine cuisine that left our tastebuds enchanted. The menu is concise yet offers some of the most finely created dishes under the supervision of Michelin starred Chef, Heiko Neider. The Garden Restaurant is a fantastic choice if you want to take in the breathtaking views from the terrace of the restaurant or even through the wall to floor windows. You can enjoy the morning paper while you breakfast on freshly brewed coffee and Eggs Benedict. Lasting impressions The Dolder Grand is a destination by itself. Besides

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offering privacy and world-class amenities, the hotel’s persona is a designed to attract visitors from all over the globe. Travellers form the Middle East frequented the hotel even prior to the renovation. This landmark in Zurich continues to draw visitors from this region. “The GCC is one of our six core markets — it only accounts for around 10% of visitors, but some guests stay for up to two or three weeks and often tend to take several rooms at one time,” said Schmid. Add to that the advantage of the hotel being located just a few metres away from Zurich’s best shopping and sightseeing spots! “The Dolder Grand’s unique selling point is that it is a city resort. It is close to Zurich city centre yet boasts of pristine, peaceful surroundings and offers a variety of bevy of leisure facilities,” said Schimd. The Dolder Grand is the perfect getaway, when it’s luxury, exclusivity and absolute comfort that you wish for. History merges beautifully with avant-garde at this fine city resort where excellence and satisfaction go hand in hand.

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The golf wing’s view includes the thick woods just behind the property and the lush golf course. The spa wing’s view includes the golf course as well as the Alps and the city.

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Travel & Lifestyle

Lounge

The Murder Room Michael

Capuzzo

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Michael Capuzzo’s brilliant storytelling gifts bring true crime to life more realistically and vividly than it has ever been portrayed before

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he Murder Room focuses on thrilling and true tales from the Vidocq Society, a team of the world’s finest forensic investigators whose monthly gourmet lunches lead to justice in ice-cold murders. Good friends and sometime rivals William Fleisher, Frank Bender and Richard Walter, a renowned FBI agent turned private eye, a sculptor lothario who speaks to the dead and an eccentric profiler known as ‘the living Sherlock Holmes’ respectively were tired over the growing tide of unsolved murders of innocent people. They decided one day over lunch that something had to be done and pledged themselves to a grand quest for justice. The three men then invite a collection of forensic investigators ever assembled, drawn from five continents to the Downtown Club in Philadelphia to begin an audacious quest of bringing the coldest killers in the world to an accounting. The Vidocq Society is then born which comprise of high intellect men who meet every month to solve a cold murder over a gourmet lunch inside a secret chamber. The Murder Room draws the listener into a chilling, darkly humorous and awe-inspiring world as the three partners travel far from their Victorian dining room to hunt the ruthless killers of a millionaire’s son, a serial killer who carves off faces and a child killer who enjoys fifty years of freedom and dark fantasy. Michael Capuzzo’s brilliant storytelling gifts bring true crime to life more realistically and vividly than it has ever been portrayed before. It is a world of dazzlingly bright forensic science and true evil as old as the Bible, a group of flawed, passionate men and women inspired by their own wounded hearts to make a stand for truth, goodness and justice in a world gone mad. Michael Capuzzo is the author of the New York Times bestseller Close to Shore and a former feature writer for the Philadelphia Inquirer and the Miami Herald. His stories have appeared in Esquire, Sports Illustrated, and Life. He lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia.

Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion and Purpose Garth

Stein

ony Hsieh, the hip, iconoclastic and widelyadmired CEO of Zappos, the online shoe retailer explains how he created a corporate culture with a commitment to service that aims to improve the lives of its employees, customers, vendors and backers. Using anecdotes and stories from his own life experiences and from other companies, Hsieh provides concrete ways that companies can achieve unprecedented success. He details many of the unique practices at Zappos such as their philosophy of allocating marketing money into the customer experience, the importance of Zappos’s Core Values (Deliver WOW through Service) and the reason why Zappos’s number one priority is company culture and his belief that once you get the culture right, everything else like great customer service, long-term branding will happen on its own. Finally, Delivering Happiness explains how Zappos employees actually apply the Core Values to improving their lives outside of work proving that creating happiness and record results go hand-in-hand. Zappos CEO Hsieh offers a compelling account of his transformation from callow Harvard student entrepreneur through his years as a dot-com wunderkind to the creator of a formidable brand. The story becomes suspenseful as Hsieh recounts the stress of operating in survival mode liquidating his assets to fund the company in its darkest days and seeking out an 11th-hour loan. By the time Zappos is acquired by Amazon for more than $1.2 billion in 2009, Hsieh and his team had built a unique corporate culture dedicated to employee empowerment and the promise of delivering happiness though satisfied customers and a valued workforce. The book is an uplifting tale of entrepreneurial success, personal growth and redemption. Tony Hsieh became involved with Zappos as an advisor and investor in 1999, about two months after the company was founded. He eventually joined Zappos full time in 2000. Under his leadership, Zappos has grown gross merchandise sales from $1.6M in 2000 to over $1 billion in 2008 by focusing relentlessly on customer service.

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The story becomes suspenseful as Hsieh recounts the stress of operating in survival mode liquidating his assets to fund the company in its darkest days and seeking out an 11th-hour loan

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CND Creative Nail Design, the leader in professional nail, hand and foot beauty, is proud to introduce the ﬁrst hybrid nail colour. Now you can say goodbye to chips, smudges and dry time and say hello to Shellac Hybrid Nail Colour! This revolutionary product applies like polish, wears ﬂawlessly for 14 days of high gloss shine and is removed in minutes. Now available at Tips & Toes Nail Spa, Bareeq Al Shatti Mall, Shatti Al Qurum & Muscat City Centre, Seeb

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Style & Beauty

Fashion w Launch September 2010

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A bagful of dreams

Style & Beauty

Fashion

Innovative and immensely talented designer Sevda Mutluâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creations vie for attention among the top brands of the world. This young handbag designer achieved success in a short period of time as a result of her impeccable designs ď ŽScript: Anne Kurian

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evda Mutlu started sketching at the age of seven. Her mother was a professional tailor from whom the young Mutlu took inspiration. The stream that she chose though was handbags, one of the most important accessories for a woman. The young Turkish designer, who has had design and fashion stints in both Turkey, USA and London launched her classy and fashionable range of handbags in London in 2008. Made from the best quality leather detailed with impeccable craftsmanship, Mutlu’s creations have won fans across the globe. The extremely talented designer chats with Crème de la Crème about her creations, the brand and herself… Who am I? First and foremost I consider myself an entrepreneur who has a passion for luxury goods. My design background has seen me working for various textile companies in both Istanbul and London. More recently I have been spending time developing my own luxury handbag brand, Sevda Mutlu. Before starting my career I studied in the Mimar Faculty of Fine Arts, Textile and Fashion Design in Istanbul. Following my move to London in 2007 I studied a variety of courses at Central Saint Martins. Setting foot into the design world At the age of seven I did my first fashion sketches and was always encouraged by my mother who was a professional tailor. It is fair to say she has played an important role in my professional and personal development. As a child I remember watching her whilst she was sewing and I would be dreaming of becoming a designer when I was older. I still derive a lot of strength from my mother who has always encouraged me to follow these childhood dreams.

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Sevda Mutlu handbags are available in the UK at selected stockists and in Harvey Nichols Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Sevda Mutlu, designer and model of the brand

Life in a designer’s shoes Istanbul is where I grew up and where I received my textile and fashion education. I find it an inspirational city which perfectly blends its rich historical past with its modern infrastructure. The Sevda Mutlu brand is a combination of eastern soul and modern style which I have been developing during my time in London. New York is obviously at the leading edge of many aspects of life and it exerts a powerful influence over media, culture and of course, fashion. I see New York as a springboard to really put the Sevda Mutlu brand on the international fashion map. I was recently invited to New York to attend the prestigious Independent Handbag Designer Awards ™ (IHDA) where I was really pleased to be nominated as one of the top 5 designers in the “Best Handbag in Overall Style and Design” category. The birth of a brand My career in the fashion industry spans over eight years working as a designer for various companies both in Turkey as well as the U.K. Ultimately my professional and personal dreams inspired me to launch my own handbag design and textile company in 2008 when I relocated to London.

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London dreams London is one of the fashion and cultural capitals of the world. In additional to the fashion aspect, I have also found there to be a very positive culture towards females in the world of entrepreneurship here. This was certainly one reason for deciding to launch the Sevda Mutlu brand in London. All the encouragement that I have received since my launch has helped me overcome the challenges that arise when creating a luxury brand in a competitive marketplace. The brand – Sevda Mutlu Sevda Mutlu is designed for the successful, modern international woman; independent in terms of expressing her individuality through her fashion choices. These women choose to carry accessories that complement their individual style and appreciate understated luxury and timeless designs. Our bags are not aimed at a particular age range as we believe timeless designs and handcrafted quality are appreciated by women regardless of age. A Sevda Mutlu customer can be assured she is purchasing a highly-skilled, handcrafted item that has been produced with the utmost

consideration for leather craftsmanship whilst also combining a strong business ethic. Apart from the rest There are many attributes that set the Sevda Mutlu brand apart from other products available on the luxury market; attention to detail; understated elegance; tasteful colour palettes; handcrafted luxury quality; a combination of East-meets-West design influences and timeless designs. We aim to create investment pieces that will ensure the label stands out from other competing brands. All handbags are designed in London and manufactured in Istanbul by skilled craftsmen using only the highest quality leathers sourced from Turkey and Italy and hardware which become more beautiful with age, a hallmark of true luxury, craftsmanship and dedication to the leather craft. East and West Sevda Mutlu handbags are available in the UK at selected stockists and in Harvey Nichols Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Our collection can also be viewed at www.sevdamutlu.com. In UK, our exclusive stockists are Belle & Bunty London and Yates Buchanan. A tryst with modeling (Sevda has modeled for the press and publicity shots featuring her handbags.) The model we had booked was ill on the day of the shoot so I was persuaded to model the collection myself ! I have never done it before, but it was great fun but not something I plan on doing again in a hurry!

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The future We are continuing to seek new stockists both in the UK and internationally. We are currently being featured at Harvey Nichols in Riyadh and we are hoping to expand our presence in other Harvey Nichols including the flagship store in London. On the design side, we are developing new collections that will be complimentary to existing pieces including a travel collection and we are working on some bespoke pieces for some of our clients.

The Sevda Mutlu brand is a combination of eastern soul and modern style which I have been developing during my time in London

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Style & Beauty

Launch

organic!

Philip Martin’s, a revolutionary range of organic skincare, haircare and cosmetics from Italy has been introduced at Ayana Spa. A look at the range that promises to provide an experience like none before Script: Anne Kurian

yana Spa has to its credit of offering exclusive and holistic treatments as well as products that complement the lifestyle of today’s women. A complete experience for the body, mind and soul is the promise of the spa. The spa’s owner Mae Ballout has to her credit of introducing novel therapies and exquisite products to benefit the needs of clients. So it should not come as a surprise that the spa is also the first to introduce a unique organic skin, hair and beauty products brand from Italy – Philip Martin’s. Organic products are dime a dozen in the market yet Philip Martin’s stands out from the crowd. The Italian organic and natural brand does not compromise on any of the essential factors – ingredients, variety and packaging. Even the brand’s publicity materials such as information booklets, counter props and advertising boards are well-designed. 126

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Philip Martin’s as founded in 1987 by Mauro Trimigliozzi who spent years researching on the benefits of organic products. To give the world a brand that is free of chemicals and artificial ingredients was the founder’s dream and he has thus been successful. He even chose to name the brand after his two sons, Philip and Martin as a promise to the future generation. He felt that with this exclusive range of organic products, the new generation would be able to choose products that are free of harmful chemicals and harmful to the body. The brand is available in Milan, Rome, London, Paris, New York and Mexico City. Interestingly in the Middle East, Oman is the first country the company chose to introduce the brand in. “Philip Martin’s is an exclusive brand. The owners chose Oman because they did researched, they found that this is was best place to start. Commercial is not their path of choice and they realised that Oman would be the right place in the Middle East to first introduce the brand,” says Lamis Annan, Sales and Marketing Manager of Oriental Beauty Cosmetics Supplies, the sole distributors of the brand in the region. Philip Martin’s features not just organic products but also treatments that are exclusively available at Ayana Spa. The brand’s uniqueness lies in the fact that all products are free from Propilene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Lauret Sulfate, Diethanolamine, Methyl, Propyl, Butyl, Etyl and Parabens. These chemicals

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Philip Martin’s is something more; It is a precise philosophy, that stands up against chemical ingredients that we commonly find in products for skin and hair care September 2010

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All products are free from Propilene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Lauret Sulfate, Diethanolamine, Methyl, Propyl, Butyl, Etyl or Parabens

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top the main reason for most skin and hair problems that individuals suffer from these days besides the other natural reasons. Speaking about her decision to choose Philip Martin’s for her spa, Mae Ballout says, “What made me decide to go in for the brand was its philosophy and that it was so exclusive. When I met the owner, I was moved by his passion and knowledge. There was a lot of involvement and commitment, this is something you don’t usually see in the big corporations.” She adds, “I love to work with people who are committed and have a passion for manufacturing such exclusive products. I hope people will not just read about Philip Martin’s but also experience the brand. For, it is not easy to understand the benefits of such a brand without experiencing it.” The range from Philip Martin’s includes Shampoos and conditioners, Finish and Style, Skin Care, Body Care, Baby care, Treatments and certified Organic Make-Up.

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Philip Martin’s has been certified by Ecocert, the acclaimed French organic certification organisation. The sheer variety in each of these categories is staggering and refreshing for an organic brand. A very unique product of the brand is the Organic candle. “It’s not just a candle but also a moisturizer and massage oil. The butter from the candle can be used on the skin as a moisturizer. When you light the candle it gives off an exquisite scent and the oil that is left behind once you extinguished the candle can be used to massage your body,” informs Annan. The products are made from fascinating and enriching ingredients that include maple syrup, jojoba oil, babassu oil which is derived from a plant in the Amazon rainforest,aloe vera and many other natural resources. Even the range of hair colours is free of harsh chemicals. “The bleach used in hair colouring does even smell like the commercial brands do. It is not only non-toxic but also has a pleasant fragrance,” says Ballout. This might

sound hard to believe but a thorough check of the Philip Martin’s hair colour kit package remove any doubts that had emerged. The hair care and skin care products from Philip Martin’s also tackle various problems that affect the scalp and skin. Specific shampoos and conditioners tackle problems such as itchy scalp, hair fall, dandruff and others in a safe yet effective manner. The range of hair care products from Philip Martin’s addresses common hair problems right at the roots. Ayana Spa offers various treatments for the scalp and hair; the staff has been trained to carry out various treatments offered by Philip Martin’s. Philip Martin’s is an exclusive brand and as a result will be available only in select spas or boutiques. “We are particular about not going commercial because this is a product that has been made for people who appreciate quality and are looking for long-term benefits. We are also particular about working with professionals who understand the value and benefits of such a unique brand,” says Annan. The brand will be launched shortly in Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait and other select countries in the Middle East.

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The products are made from fascinating and enriching ingredients that include maple syrup, jojoba oil, babassu oil which is derived from a plant in the Amazon rainforest,aloe vera and many other natural resources

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Simply Musts w I, Me, Myself September 2010

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Simply Musts

A selection of the finest buys for connoisseurs of luxury

Glowing Celebration In the Home 2010 Collection, the House of Amouage introduces three new fragrances where Oud lies at the heart of every creation. The collection range includes three candles (Divine Oud, Oriental Oud and Eternal Oud which burn generously for forty hours) and room sprays. Both room sprays and candles perfectly complement each other in layering the home to create a wonderfully aromatic and luxurious ambience. Each candle is presented in a luxurious purple box specially designed to convey the modern spirit and elegance of the House. Available at all Amouage Stores - SABCO Center, Muscat City Center, Al Bustan Palace, Muscat Duty Free and Muscat Pharmacy

Contemporary Design The dining space of every home holds a special place in the hearts for many families. By giving it a creative and innovative touch, the dining space can be enhanced to a luxurious setting. This classic dining piece comes with four chairs and a unique triangular shaped glass table. Manufactured especially for Home Essentials (Towell Furniture Co.), this unique dining set come in two distinctive colours, Orange and Aubergine. At Home Essentials, there are dining tables that come in innovative design styles, some of them completely collapsible. They are easy to maintain and come in a range of materials including fiber and wood. Available at Home Essentials, Towell Furniture Co. (LLC), Al Ghubra

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Eco-Friendly Furniture This contemporary lamp is made from teak which is a unique hard wood that is perfect for withstanding the abuse and toughest elements that all indoor and outdoor furniture is subjected to. At Homestar Furniture, the most exquisite pieces of teak furniture, teak art and teak sculpture has been acquired from around the globe. Their furniture collection will add charm and character to any room in the house. The uniqueness of their furniture is that all their wood furniture is constructed from slab of wood that has been collected from ancient fallen timbers. Each piece of furniture is hand crafted to enhance the wood’s natural elegance. No colour enhancements are applied, only a clear finish is used to keep the furniture as natural as possible. Available at Homestar Furniture, Ruwi

Bespoke Bathrooms This unique bathroom collection called PURE STONE from Villeroy & Boch has been modeled on pebbles smoothed by the flow of river water to produce a unique bathroom model that offers excellent quality and design. Surrounded by natural forms and finest materials in the form of bathroom ceramics, furniture, tap fittings or accessories, in PURE STONE one will discover a harmony that instills an inner calm. Villeroy & Boch Bathrooms & Tiles has always stayed ahead in race with evolving designs and requirements in the industry, thereby putting their claim into practice – Passionate and Stylish design. Villeroy & Boch Bathrooms and Tiles collections transform the bathroom into an area of leisure at home, with stylish innovations and suitable ergonomics that will change your perception of the bathroom – elevating it from “integral” to an “essential area” of classic design, hand in hand with pioneering concepts for everyday wellbeing or absolute luxury. For more information, Contact Al Amana Home 24498783 / 24498784

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Designer Touch The Christow Cigar Box is timeless, elegant and imbued with an authentic American finesse, Ralph Lauren Home offers decorative and practical pieces to enhance every interior. The cigar box is made with wood and nickelplated brass which can be presented in a Ralph Lauren Home gift box for your loved ones. So bring in some allAmerican Ralph Lauren elegance into the home as well as the wardrobe with the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic gifts and accessories www.harrods.com

Essentially for Men The famous luxury brand, Bugatti has never failed to impress connoisseurs of fashion. Their formal wears for men are made to perfection by some of the most creative German designers. The Bugatti collection ranges from shirts, casual tees, formals, leather items, accessories and perfumes. Their latest formal collection is perfect to wear at all seasons as they provide the ultimate comfort when it comes to fashion. Available at the Bugatti Showroom, Bareeq Al Shatti, Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Shatti Qurum

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Technological Advancement In a world where technology grows smaller and smaller, some things are still better large. While some claim that smaller lenses, smaller sensors and smaller camera systems can produce the same image quality as larger Medium Format DSLRs, there is a reason why 35mm manufacturers continue to claim that their systems can produce Medium Format quality. Simply put, digital photography has made the advantages of Medium Format DSLRs even more obvious and now with the launch of the H4D-40, Hasselblad is bringing these advantages larger lenses and sensor size, more advanced optics, increased resolution and clarity within reach of a whole new generation of photographers. Providing all the benefits of the renowned Hasselblad system, the H4D-40 with the new True Focus technology should be an essential part of any serious photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arsenal. For any further information, contact Anirudh at 99269121

A Fitting Tribute The new Oris Oscar Peterson Limited Edition watch is almost as distinguished as the track record of the man to whom Oris dedicates its latest jazz watch. Oscar Peterson has been regarded by many as the greatest jazz pianist of all time. Inspired by his infamous career and instrument, this watch was created as a tribute to the legend. The delicately applied indices take the form of piano keys and sit atop a central dial ring with concentric grooves. The dial ring is reminiscent of an LP and refers to the hundreds of recordings Oscar Peterson made during his career. Oscar Peterson loved watches with Roman numerals and this limited edition honours that while displaying the VIII in gold plate which is a reference to the eight Grammys he won during his lifetime. The case back carries the Oscar Peterson lion logo and the limited edition number from 0001/1925 to 1925/1925, chosen because it was the year the great man was born. The Oris Oscar Peterson Limited Edition is a fitting tribute to a jazz giant. For any further information, contact Khimjiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Watches at 24699173

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I, Me, Myself

Director and CSR Specialist of TRACCS, Luma Al Saleh shares some of her favourite life vignettes

Your mantra in life Remind people how much you love them because they simply might not know. Your biggest motivating factor My mother - a wonderful, loving and caring person. We might not see eye to eye on many factors but I aspire to be as good as her What is most precious to you My faith and Spirituality What inspires you Passion and random acts of kindness I cannot leave home without My iPad! My prized possessions are TRACCS Favourite holiday spots Sardinia, Italy Favourite hangouts in Muscat Maison de la Ray My hobbies/interests Watersports My vices Thinking with my heart

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Celebration Galore Wishing all our readers a joyous and warm Eid