FACES Issue No. 114 by FACES OMAN

Issue 114, July 2016

Family Attitude Class Entertainment Success

Editor’s Note

Adolescence, which stretches from

the

endearing

tween

years to the carefree teenage ones, is, by far, the most

beautiful phase of our lives. It marks the

transition from an impressionable primary student to a carefree teenager,

Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali

who has to take his/her first tentative steps in the larger world. There is

Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali

a sense of invincibility…alongside a dose of uncertainty. Whether the

Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali Business Director / Sophia Raman

issue concerns higher studies and the choices that one needs to make,

Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes

or the mundane back-to-school anxiety, which many a child is known to

Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma

experience, life in the tween to teen zone is paved with experiences that

Head of Advertising & Marketing / Aziz K. Baker

are both exciting and daunting.

Business Unit Head / Pooja Saxena Operations / M.V.V. Sagar

FACES explores these and other issues in this children’s special to pay tribute to this effervescent phase of life. While the Cover Story addresses the stress factors that act as blocks and provides expert guidelines, the special pages are devoted to tips and tricks for kids and parents seeking to ease the ‘back-to-school’ load.

Published By / Muscat Media Group

ere yet? Are we th

EL Just TRAV

Tel: +968 24 811953 . Fax: +968 24 813153 Printed At / Oriental Printing Press Tel: +968 24816952, 24815330

Taking the cue forward, children’s fashion and make-

s destination s d-friendly d activitie these chil to one of in fun-fille your kids Take a trip e to engage holiday that promis a carefree ct you with and attra

PB 770, PC 112, Ruwi, Oman

up dos and don’ts for tweens and teens feature in the regular style and beauty sections, alongside a host of children-related stories, whether it is holiday

to comes hen it what city deciding on a family to visit there is often vacation, en parents betwe interests places may a clash of While some natural and kids. terms of in t ld ificen centuries-o s, be magn and have ate elder beauty that fascin getting monuments the little ones bit find thing a tad you may ss for some all restle exciting. to find need mix you the right Ideal ly, that offer tastes destinationsappeal to suit the have one. We of fun and sts of every rating and intere list of five exhila to a compiled will not only cater, but ion spans cities that rable short attent your kids’ as much a memo it ts. also make for you as paren experience

destinations or home décor. This issue of FACES is

Contact Email - Editorial editor@facesoman.com

D look GOO

Telephone +968 24498722

Thaila Bangkok,

Email - Sales pooja@facesoman.com Website www.facesoman.com

We are on Facebook! ‘FACES Magazine, Oman’

packed with all things tweens and teens. Copenhagen

, Denmark

to is home

It ng and mark ark is truly a city ford kids. with exciti ct agen, Den of Denm park; packelands, it is also perfethe Copenhiful capital city t amusement e wood

n includ d by lush The beaut ’s oldes the world and also surrounde tions in Copenhaget aquarium and Bakken, Plane adventures Other popular attrac zoo, the Blue extreme of the art picnic. for a short , Tivoli garden, state Thailand this city, Crown Jewel! Bangkotok,popular belief,know n for many more better Contrary probably fun, is full is which us for s than family wild night y offerings. Famo d iendl ok is packe of kid-fr s and ability, Bangk its afford s of activities, classeto the with dozen cater specifically MUST a shows that and is definitely child on young onesation. Take your robots visit destin ride, dine at the day k ate a whole a tuk-tu dedic and ium. Along restaurant at the Funar and the just to spend Ocean World Siam other fun with the um, there are 30 to pick dolls muse Check them online kids. attractions. suit you and your that the ones

Mommy, ly can I app

lipstick? 38

are taboo Things thatsistible, especially w irre n the are someho early years whe ng during the ’t do that’ parenti ‘do this, don punishing rant seems

July 2016

and experts st ver, sugge Makeup face ists, howe dermatolog make up on the to use of age, owing that the skin at a young avoided sensitive should be chemicals on the mind to keep in elf. on of the reacti It is then necessary ifying yours ity girls. beaut femin of young don’ts while ver your dos and go both the time to disco look good: so to this is the urge yes, ant But your const most and satisfy topic in for both ahead! the same strictly taboo ing line that generally 30s and 40s, not be a defin tips are n in their er to their akeup may but there is that Make up older wome things the young – , consenting girls and households matter how heed when mber important teenage need to woman, no are a few Always rememistakes there is parents but there in mind. nd. For, every ed; iful. While dema keep ’s retain with beaut d feel tween lasting endowed ones shoul al glow MUST be to look and the ones have a long in a little old, wants al beauty, even your origin young age could indulge young or natur want to a features. itute for made at ce those l face would no subst your skin. sharpened symmetrica the other to enhan impact on cheeks or or perfectly ng time some lips, glowi makeup t shining a difference. it’s brigh does make Whether up surely eyes – make

0 40 4

6 16 1 01 0 2016 2016 2 201 y 20 ully uly June JJuly

Copyright 2016 FACES / All material published remains the copyright of FACES. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. FACES cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material.

.o .om om

Inglot

Flormar Boots

Face shop

Contents FACES Features 14 Cover Story

Stress knows no age, say experts who have found varying degrees of stress signs among children, even in those going to elementary schools

20 In Conversation

Seeniya Biju, COO of Aster Al Raffah Hospital Oman, credits her team for Aster’s success in recent years and her family for her personal achievements

22 Centre Stage z z

The ‘Call of Peace’ art initiative Oman’s young sailors at Optimist World Championship

24 In The Spotlight

‘The Sentinel’, teenage author Aditya Chandrashekar’s debut novel Souq Al Mina project at the Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront

26 Feast On

Visit Rossini to savour all things Italian

FACES Health 30 Health Check

Dr. Suja Haneef, Specialist Paediatrics, Burjeel Medical Center, answers some of the common queries raised by parents A lesson in cleaning your fruits and vegetables before consuming them

FACES S Travel T l

36 Explore Oman

Oman’s forts, which stand as sentinels of history, are seeped in tradition and heritage, providing visitors with a rich experience of Oman

38 Just Travel

Take a trip to one of these child-friendly destinations that promise to engage your kids in fun-filled activities and enjoy a carefree vacation

FACES Style

58 Man n Date

Sons today are more likely to be close to their fathers than in the past, say experts

FACES SPECIAL 48 Kids’ Special

Back to School and all things cool

FACES Razzmatazz

10 Star Light

Justin Beiber needs no introduction, but his hit ‘Sorry’ number has got even his critics wondering

34 In The Luxe

12 Razzle Dazzle

40 Look Good

13 Tittle Tattle

42 Style File

FACES Digest

Treat your parched throat to some exclusive ice creams from the world of desserts

Make-up dos and don’ts for teenage girls

Welcome back the school season with fashionable garments for kids from Max

FACES Elements 46 Take a Spin

The all new BMW 7 Series is a dream car in every sense of the word

54 At Home

Make your child feel special with décor ideas that have the potential to spread an element of newness into his/her old bedroom

56 Relatively Speaking

Friendship knows no age, no reason; simply follow your heart and ‘fall in friendship’ - like you did when you found love

Latest celebrity gossip from the world of Hollywood

Heard through the grapevine...

64 Movies & Books

Reviews of upcoming movies and books

66 Gadget Notes

Roundup of new gadgets in the market

Oman Air’s Junior Sindbad Flyer Campaign Oman Air is making air travel even more exciting for its young customers by inviting passengers between four and 12 years of age to participate in a campaign and win a free flight. Launching the first campaign of Junior Sindbad Flyer, the distribution of Junior Sindbad Flyer Passports is set to be complete by 10th of August, throughout the airline’s international network. Announcing the launch of the campaign, Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO at Oman Air, said, “Every Junior Sindbad Flyer will receive their own Oman Air passport which will be stamped and signed by the captain on every flight they take. Once they have collected 10 stamps and signatures, they will be able to claim a free flight to any destination within our network.” Sindbad is the name of Oman Air’s frequent flyer programme, which has thousands of members throughout the airline’s international network. Every member enjoys access to a wide range of benefits, special offers and tailor-made services.

Ooredoo launches all new value packed Shababiah Plan Good news for Ooredoo subscribers. The service provider has launched an inspiring new brand identity and a completely new value-packed tariff for its popular youth-focused Shababiah prepaid plan. The same was unveiled at a special ceremony held under the patronage of Sayyid Nasr bin Bader Al Busaidi. Now with a dynamic new logo, designed by leading young lights in Oman’s creative community, and a specially tailored voice and data plan developed in collaboration with the Sultanate’s digital-savvy youth, Shababiah is more affordable, cost-effective, flexible and easy-touse. The Shababiah Welcome Pack provides 1 GB data as well as RO 1 credit, valid for a period of 30 days. Once customers have joined, they can then choose the options that suit them best. The new plans combine a simple tariff structure with the best community call rates and bundled data in the Sultanate. From monthly Any Network voice or SMS bundles to daily and monthly Anytime Data bundles; all are custom-made to suit different user requirements and budgets.

‘Buy One, Get One Free’ at Pizza Hut Tuesdays have becoming exciting with Pizza Hut’s new value campaign, ‘Buy One, Get One Free’, which will be valid across its outlets on Tuesdays. With this offer, Pizza Hut takes dining experience to the next level, giving its customers more value and more reason to hang out with family and friends without burning a hole in their pockets. Available across all toppings, on small, medium and large – pan, classic, thin n’ crispy, and stuffed crust pizzas, Pizza Hut’s ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ Tuesday promotion is ideal for a family or group of friends, and is valid on dine-in, home delivery and take-away. Pizza Hut’s sumptuous pizzas can be completed with a wide option of toppings featuring the following fresh ingredients: black olives, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, sweet pineapple, jalapeno, and tomatoes as well as beef, pepperoni, grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese to name a few.

July 2016

Introducing Salalah Air Salalah Air, built on the ‘Three C’s of culture, commitment and character, is set to introduce charter services in Oman and between the governorates in the country. At a meeting with H.E Maitha Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Tourism, recently, the founder and CEO of Salalah Air, Sam Owen, introduced the concept of Oman’s first Flying Club and Adventure Sports Centre that forms part of Salalah Air’s development strategy. The Flying Club and Adventure Sports Centre will be headquartered in Salalah and have an operational base located at Sharbitat, which will provide opportunities for aerial sports such as para-motoring and parachuting, together with opportunities for diving, deep sea fishing and sailing. Salalah Air is entirely Omani owned company chaired by Ali Masoud Al Khashoub; it is built on Omani cultural heritage and commitment. “Our vision is to become the number one Charter air service provider in the Sultanate while remaining true to the traditions and culture of Oman and we intend to work closely with Oman Air and Salam Air to provide complimentary services that will be of benefit to the nation,” said Owen.

‘Family Magical Moments’ at Al Bustan Palace Hotel Make the most of the season at Al Bustan Palace Hotel, A Ritz Carlton Hotel, which has put together a perfect combination of unforgettable experiences and comfort, making for a memorable family resort getaway in Muscat this summer. From the Lagoon and interconnecting rooms to spacious Executive and Presidential Suites, families can choose between the different luxurious accommodations. With limitless daily activities arranged by the recreation team to entertain the guests, children enjoy their own privileges during their stay at the hotel with Ritz Kids, while parents can enjoy their break at the luxury beach resort with a variety of watersports activities. For families looking to experience summer at the Muscat beach resort of Al Bustan Palace, the ‘Better Together’ summer package is available with an exclusive offer to stay 3 nights when you pay for 2, including three overnights in a luxurious room or suite, complimentary wifi, and exclusive savings on the hotel restaurants and luxury spa treatments.

Landmark Group opens its 8th Shoexpress store Shoppers at Oasis Mall in Al Khuwair have a new destination to frequent. Shoexpress, Landmark Group’s fashion value footwear brand, has opened a brand new store at Oasis Mall. The footwear brand has increased its presence in Oman with this 8th store; it closely follows the opening of the Nizwa outlet in March this year. The new 4316sqft store, located on ground floor, showcases women’s, kids and men’s fashion value footwear and accessories. The new store features the brand new look and feel that offers customers an international shopping experience, while providing them with the latest styles and trends at affordable prices. Shoppers can catch the new collection this spring and be season savvy than the usual with impressive range of styles in a very competitive price. Shoexpress provides an extensive collection of fun, fashionable and eye-catching accessories, including costume jewellery, handbags and purses, as well as socks and belts for the entire family that are affordable and are trendy.

July 2016

Reintroducing

Justin Beiber

or someone who recently turned 22, Justin Beiber seems to have been on the celebrity circuit all his life. The reams of media coverage dedicated to his onstage performances and offstage antics could cause an avalanche, if left free in the air. Despite delivering hits

Justin Beiber needs no introduction, but his hit ‘Sorry’ number has got even his critics wondering with every one of his albums, he has remained the so-called ‘bad boy’ of big media hawks, thanks to his teen pranks and seemingly innocent acts, that were simply timed wrong. But, following an apparent change of attitude, he agreed recently in an interview that he was, indeed, in a bad place. “It wasn’t fake”, he said, talking about his so-called ‘downfall’. It was in 2014 that he was arrested for the first time following a run-in with the law, but now he wants to put those mistakes in the past and, yes, forget them for good. When he said, “I just want to get to a place where I can stop apologising,” there was no doubt in the minds of the readers that he really meant it. But whether he sticks to this mature stance or falls prey to another one of those avoidable blunders is what his critics will be tracking. Interestingly, in the same interview, he’d said, “We all go through trial and error. We all go through moments of

downfall. Let’s talk about our success now. Let’s focus on me now. And I think we’re getting there.” And there is no doubt that he is getting there, considering the sold out shows he keeps churning every single time. From the time he hit the world of music in 2009 with his first single, ‘One Time’, he has, strangely, managed to balance his musical highs with personal lows that saw him pelting eggs, driving recklessly and more. But even naysayers will have to grudgingly admit that he is set on a new path. Currently on his ‘Purpose’ world tour, he appears to be on a mission to bring ‘hope and light’ to the world with his music. The Purpose album, released last November, also saw Justin collaborating with electro music producer Skrillex. Talking about the theme behind the album, he is quoted to have said, “It’s called Purpose just because I felt like I lost my purpose for a while but now I’ve found it.” As if to prove his point, Justin swept the iHeartRadio Awards, earlier this year, with two performances, and picked the ‘Best Male Artist of the Year’ award, along with trophies for ‘Best Dance Song of the Year’ with ‘Where Are U Now’. He also made it to the cover of the 100th issue of Clash Magazine, with a stunning photograph and a candid interview, in which he said: “I made mistakes. Part of being a man is owning up to that.” Way to go, Justin

10 10

July July y 2016 201 16

Did Swift approve lyrics that references West’s ‘Famous’ song? While Taylor Swift has insisted

One Direction’s Liam Payne is going solo One Direction members are continuing to find newer directions... Rumour mills, which have been busy churning out stories of who is going to go solo next, since the band went on hiatus earlier this year, have finally been silenced, as Liam Payne announced on Twitter recently that he has signed Capitol Records as a solo artist. “One Direction will always be my home and family but I’m very excited to see what this chapter brings,” he wrote. Fans would remember that just last September, Payne had commented on how he saw 1D’s hiatus as an opportunity. Although Harry Styles reportedly inked a solo deal last month, he is yet to announce the signing publicly.

she never heard the ‘Famous’ song and therefore couldn’t approve it, Kanye West says she knew about the song and was fine with it. However, their feud has intensified after Kim Kardashian West accused Swift of lying and posted on Snapchat a telephone conversation between her husband, rapper Kanye West, and what is believed to be singer Taylor Swift. Following this, the social media went into frenzy over the whole drama, which was tied to a recent episode of ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashians’ in which Kim expressed frustration with her husband being criticised.

Ozzy Osbourne’s marriage with Sharon ‘back on track’ Media watchers would remember the reports which emerged earlier this year that the legendary rocker had cheated on the X Factor judge. But for the moment it looks like all is well between Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne. It was thought that the pair were headed for a divorce after Sharon was said to have discovered that Ozzy had been having an affair. She had, in fact, announced that she had kicked her rocker husband out of their home. But it appears that Ozzy, who is currently on a break from Black Sabbath’s farewell tour, has managed to win back the affections of his wife of 33 years, despite her voicing her trust issues with her husband.

Jennifer Aniston talks about her insecurities When a little girl asked 47-year old Jennifer Aniston if she ever woke up in the morning and not know who she was, at the Giffoni Film Festival in Italy, the Friends star teared up and spoke about her insecurities. Accepting that she completely relates to that feeling, Aniston said, “There are not enough fingers and toes in this entire room to count how many times that moment has happened to me. We are all human beings at the end of the day, whether we are a waitress or a baker or a student or whatever we are, at the end of the day you kind of hit walls and think, ‘I kind of can’t go any farther.’” She told the kids in the audience that they are not alone and it’s normal to feel self-doubt sometimes.

David Bowie’s musical Lazarus set to open in London David Bowie fans can look forward to the opening of the musical Lazarus in London later this year. Following a sold out run at the New York Theatre Workshop from 18 November 2015 to 20 January 2016, the production will open at the Kings Cross Theatre on 25 October and will run until 22 January 2017. The show is intended to be a sequel to Walter Tevis’ book, ‘The Man Who Fell To Earth’, which was turned into a 1976 film in which Bowie starred. Lazarus focuses on the character Thomas Jerome Newton, a human-looking alien who comes to Earth and is unable to die, hoping the arrival of another lost soul into his life could set him free.

July 2016

Tittle

“Tonight I feel extremely unconnected to both myself and my music. I’ve never really felt like my materials, als, wardrobe or a video could define e me. I act on a moment and fear something thing that hasn’t happened…” …” - Selena Gomez apologises gises to fans for being ‘unauthentic’ and d disconnected from her music. usic.

“You couldn’t walk down the street with him. He always had this weird (attraction) - like fans just screamed when they saw him. They didn’t know how to react. Fans responded in a very abnormal way to him.” - Mila Kunis opens up about how crazy it was to date Macaulay Culkin.

“Taylor and I have always believed we are soulmates. Just like all couples we have ups and downs, and we have been taking a break. We are both ambitious artists, hoping to work through long-distance and complicated schedules to continue the simple love we have always shared.” - Lady Gaga addresses the status sta of her relationship with Taylor Kinney Kinn in a post. moving Instagram pos

“I would, yeah. I definitely would. I think if everybody was involved, or if it was just a small, six episode, twelve episode mini-series.” - Heather Morris, who played Brittany Pierce in Glee, talks about a possible ‘Glee’ reunion series.

“I don’t want to see you texting your boyfriends or your girlfriends. I don’t want to see you catching any Pokémons...” - Rihanna tells fans that her concerts are Pokémon Ju July uly y 2016 20 01 16 Go free zones.

Back-to-school is

cover STORY

stressful…? WATCH FACES COME ALIVE.

Stress knows no age, say experts who have found varying degrees of stress signs among children, even in those going to elementary schools

s children get ready to head out to school after a long stretch of summer holidays, stress could rear its ugly head on the heels of the ensuing back-to-school din. There is, of course, excitement to meet classmates and school friends after the break, but the holiday routine, which is known to alter the concepts of time and space with brakes put on study and homework, can trigger stress at the slightest reference to school. This stress could be heightened if the child is joining a new school or is apprehensive about the prospect of new teacher/s.

July 2016

Warning signs of stress The onus of identifying the signs is on the parent/s, as children are not inclined to confide about their feelings of stress. Usually, these signs manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomach pains or a general unwell feeling and tiredness. As an expert points out, ‘If children say they have a tummy ache when they don’t, they are probably trying to communicate something to you… And, even if they actually feel a tummy ache, it may not be from an abdominal source.’

While it is important to acknowledge the symptom of tummy ache or any such physical ache and find out if there is any direct cause, what is more critical is getting the child to voice what he/she is feeling. Anxiety could also manifest as a refusal to prepare for school in time. Often, with anxiety comes a sense of irritability and the child may become cranky for no reason, or may have crying spells. “This could be the result of stress,” notes a student counsellor. Most experts, however, believe, some element of stress is effective in helping the child prepare for school

Parent guide

Sleep well

However, highly ambitious parents are also known to over-schedule their children’s time, which is another source of anxiety, as the child could feel shackled following the freedom enjoyed during the summer vacation. The other two don’ts parents need to heed are ‘don’t over-instruct’ and ‘don’t over-protect’. Too much

Stress management therapies highlight the importance of good sleep to tide over the problem. Studies have shown how sleep deprivation could affect children’s behaviours and even their level of alertness in school. Most experts recommend 12 hours of sleep for pre-schoolers and ten hours until the child gets into teen years. And when holidays disrupt the sleep patterns with most sleep spilling over to day time, it is best to alter the routine at least a week before the school starts, so as to erase all feelings of ennui and be ready for the new schedule, is the advice from experts.

Parents who set a positive tone and bring in an element of optimism to the beginning of the school can help children inculcate similar sentiments.

interference in the child’s life and a barrage of instructions could work negatively. Moreover, any personal demonstration of stress on the part of parents could also rub negatively on children. This throws the focus on parents and the communication network they maintain with children. A study on stress, in fact, found that majority of the parents of children with varying levels of stress, were also stressed. According to American Academy of Paediatrics, ‘A child’s stress can increase along with family stress, especially if it is unrecognised.’ The onus then is on parents to keep the line of communication open and understand that their child could also be stressed owing to a variety of factors.

cover STORY

work and also exams, as it acts as a driving force. But if events like backto-school are spurring episodes of stress, small changes in routine could help keep chronic stress at bay.

Right diet Alongside good sleep is the need for a good diet and exercise routine, which are known to reduce stress. A good diet begins with breakfast and it is for parents/caregivers to ensure that children do not head out to school without proper breakfast. Skipping breakfast for a little extra snooze time will make it more difficult to focus while at school and even induce stress. Studies have, in fact, demonstrated that children who have breakfast do well at school.

July 2016

cover STORY 16

Stress

Management Dr. Aziz Alnamani What are the signs of stress among children? It is important to recognise the signs of stress in children so that one can intervene earlier and help minimise the effects of stress. The main sign of stress in children is a change in behaviour - such as acting irritable or moody, withdrawing from activities that they used to enjoy, expressing worries, complaining more than usual about school, crying, fearful, clinging to a parent or teacher and changes in sleeping and

July 2016 201 01 16

Increase in stress levels will negatively impair childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s academic performance, maintains Dr. Aziz Alnamani, Medical Director, Psychiatrist and Nutrition Therapist of Top Medical Care The Psychology Clinic, as he provides an insight into stress in children in the following interview eating patterns. Older kids may begin to lie, bully other kids, or defy authority. Are there any physical symptoms that could act as cues? Stress can also reflect in physical symptoms such as headache, bedwetting, nightmares, stuttering, upset stomach or vague stomach pain and aggressive behaviour. When are children more likely to be stressed? Any change in the life of a child can be stressful. Children may become stressful following a move to a new house, change in school; traumatic life experience such as

a car accident, family arguments and conflict; being over scheduled; feeling pressured to perform or behave beyond their ability; death of a loved one; illness; difficulty with school work; increased pressure and responsibility at home. What is the link between academic performance and stress among students? Little stress can be useful for students as this will increase their motivation and heighten their alertness, and, subsequently, academic performance. However, if the level of stress increases, it will negatively impair their academic performance. As stress affects decision-making, creates impulsivity, increases the likelihood of making mistakes, interferes with personal relationships and reduces productivity.

How can parents and siblings help them cope with it? There are several ways by which parents and sibling/s can help children to cope with stress. Parents can: z Provide a safe and secure home. z Spend quality time with their children. z Encourage children to ask questions and encourage expression of concerns, worries, or fears. z Listen to children without criticism. z Allow the child opportunities to make choices and have some control in his or her life. z Encourage physical activity. z Keep children informed about

anticipated changes such as changes in jobs or moving house. z Recognise signs of unresolved stress in the child and seek professional help. How can student counsellors help? Student counsellors can be really active in supporting students to deal with stress. For example, they can: z Help students learn more about their emotions and coping skills as part of the curriculum. z Help to create supportive, positive and safe classroom environments. z Communicate more frequently with students’ parents and caregivers. z Ensure that students get the individual support they need with learning and achieving their academic goals. z Help to implement anti-bullying practices and policies. z Encourage students to be creative and express themselves. Are children copying stress behaviours from their parents or caregivers? Yes. Although parents tend to think

that children’s stress comes from outside environment, studies have shown that most children’s stress is linked to family environment and that parents’ stress transmits directly to children. What are the consequences/effects of stress among children? What are the ways it will manifest in their lives and studies? Stress is the main cause of cardiovascular disease. Stress can also cause depression anxiety and other serious psychiatric diseases. Stress can affect the child’s studies and the future academic and occupational life of the child.

cover STORY

Would you say high level of competition is responsible for growing stress levels among children? Yes, high level of competition is one of the causes of the growing stress levels among children. However, this is not the only reason. Increase in levels of stress among parents or caregivers is also responsible for the increased level of stress in children.

What is the role to be played by schools to ensure that the students aren’t negatively stressed? Schools can help to reduce stress among children by providing supportive and safe classroom environment; allow time for students during school hours to receive adequate exercise and have play/ relaxation time; provide student counsellors; and adopt more creative teaching environments.

Jully July y 2016 201 016 6

17 17

cover STORY 18 18

July Ju July ly 2016 20 01 16

cover STORY

Chronic stress could lead to depression Good empathetic communication skill is essential to help children deal with stress and encourage them to be open about their fears and anxieties, says Dr. Hana Al-Geilani, Psychiatrist at Whispers of Serenity, as she delineates the problem factors and workable solutions in the following article How does stress manifest in children? Stress in children may manifest through changes in behaviour. They may become more irritable and/ or lose their temper more easily than usual. They may withdraw from activities and hobbies they once enjoyed. They may complain about school and other things continuously and more often. They may be easily startled and may be fearful of situations they did not fear in the past, resulting in becoming clingy towards their parents or teachers. Physiological features may include eating and/or sleeping too much or too little. Can stress act as a trigger for depression among children? Yes, it can, especially chronic stress. It is believed that chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and reduced serotonin, dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are linked to depression.

How high or otherwise is the stress level among children in Oman? Do you handle stress related cases among children? I would imagine that stress levels in children in Oman would be similar to statistics all around the world, as the causes of stress in children are generally the same. We do deal with stress in children, which generally manifests in behavioural difficulties and antisocial behaviour. How can parents and care givers help? Parents and caregivers can help by finding out the cause of the stress. This is done by practicing good empathetic communication skills with the child and encouraging the child to be open about his/her fears and anxieties. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to give the child a feeling of safety by informing them that nothing they say will be judged or punished. When the cause is known, it would need to be worked on; if it canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be worked on or the cause cannot be found out, then referral to a child psychologist or psychiatrist would be necessary. Once the cause is known, parents and caregivers should encourage the child to relax by breathing or using other relaxation techniques. Art therapy and other therapies are also available.

While a host of stress management therapies, including medication have been found effective for adults, what is the best course to follow in children? This will depend on the age of the child and the symptoms manifested. Medication is used as a last resort in our practice. We start with talk therapies and others such as art therapy and drama therapy. We only use medication if there are co-morbidities such as ADHD, depression and anxiety, and even then we use it only as a last resort. Would you say stress is a modern day problem...? I do not believe that stress, especially in children, is a modern day problem. I think this problem existed a long time ago; however, the stigma associated with it caused people to hide it away from even their parents. Now, people are more open about their mental health. Having said that, there may be more triggers for stress as times are now more demanding. Stress in children, a lot of the time, is caused by how people, including parents, treat them. Historically, there has always been controversy in this area.

Ju 2016 July 201 016 6

19 19

in CONVERSATION

HEALTH CARE

AND TEAM WORK Seeniya Biju, COO of Aster Al Raffah Hospital Oman, credits her team for Aster’s success in recent years and her family for her personal achievements

people friendly attitude, coupled with congenial work relations, has helped Seeniya Biju carve out a winwin situation in her career as the Chief Operating Officer of Aster Al Raffah Hospital Oman. A team player from the word go, she has channelled her expertise in forging close ties with her team, who she holds responsible for her professional successes. “I always thank my team,” she muses, adding that the team “was so vibrant and responsive that things started moving in the positive direction from the very beginning.” She joined the fraternity seven years ago as the senior manager operations and has since led from the front to shape the growth of Aster in Oman. She credits the growing success to the freedom given to her as a country head by the Senior Management, to who she reports in the UAE.

Although the health industry was a new venture, following a decadelong tenure with the Teejan Group of Companies, Seeniya took on the challenge of health care with precision. She soon learnt the ropes of the job and made the shift to the service industry with ease, earning an MBA in healthcare alongside, and relying on her strong leadership skills to fuel her passion for service. Recalling the early days, Seeniya maintains that the profile of the hospital as a mid-range facility, providing the right balance for patients seeking service that is affordable but on par with top-end ones, set the tone and gained public acceptance. It has since grown in size and strength with hospitals in Muscat and Sohar, in addition to medical centres, pharmacies and a corporate clinic. With on-going projects in Mabela and Nizwa, Aster is set to have more branches by the end of next year. However, there are challenges along the way, with Omanisation targets proving difficult to achieve, especially due to the 24x7 work pattern followed in the health industry. Getting doctors is also a huge challenge, maintains

Seeniya, but hastens to add that it hasn’t dampened the growth of Aster, which has also made inroads with its various community service initiatives, including tie-ups with the local autism centre and the orphanage and free health check-ups in the interior areas. Stating that “Aster is all about doctors and the brand”, she points out that a series of global branding activities have endeared Aster, a Dubai based brand, to the public. Whether it is the global pledge to create healthier lifestyle opportunities or spread cheer among the staff, Aster has taken innovative measures to strengthen its brand. One of their recent campaigns, which recognised the efforts of their attenders by sending gifts to their children back home and in Oman, proved to be an emotional affair for all. Even recounting it makes Seeniya moist-eyed. Her aim at present is to make “Aster the best brand and the best hospital in Oman, with maximum branches.” Personally for her, the journey to the position of COO has been exciting and eventful. A native of Kodungallur in Kerala, Seeniya did most of her schooling in Kuwait, where her parents were based, before graduating with BBM from India. She began her career as a customer service executive back in India; she soon became the coordinator and got promoted as manager, when Oman beckoned. That was 16 years ago. Today, she and her businessman husband Biju have a large household with four children – three girls (Aysha, Fathima, Amina) and a boy (Farhan). She credits Biju’s unconditional support and firm backing from her parents and her sister (Administrator of Aster in Dubai), for her personal and professional triumphs. With plans to have a consultancy firm, which would help develop careers and open business avenues for young Omanis, she is set to continue winning hearts.

20 20

J ly Ju July l 2016 201 016 6

Seeniya Biju The home I grew up in... I grew up in Kuwait. We lived in a 1-bedroom apartment, opposite a Pakistan school. I walked all the way to school and I remember a Bakala (as they call it there) where we used to buy chocolates and ice creams while coming back from school, which was so much fun! When I was a child I wanted to... Become a teacher. I still love teaching. The moment that changed me forever... It’s probably when I left Kuwait and my parents and got into a hostel in India. I left luxury and entered reality. Got to know the ups and downs of life. My greatest inspiration... I get inspired by a lot of leaders like Robin Sharma, whose books I am very fond of and live it; Mother Theresa; my own bosses - Dr. Azad, Ms. Alisha, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Karthik…all of who have different qualities which I pick and learn and adapt from. My hero… Heroes… My husband, who is a great pillar of strength, and my son, who I long to be with always, are the super heroes of my life. My three girls are my heroines. If I could change one thing about myself... I would not be straightforward and would slow down a bit. My frankness

sometimes hits me back; my speed sometimes makes me fall! I dream of... Heaven and everything that’s promised in there. What I see when I look in the mirror... A truly blessed individual in all senses. But a candid answer would be ‘myself’… and I hate seeing it as I keep putting on inches every now and then. It’s not fashionable but I like... I like what suits me, be it dresses, make up, cars, characters…and I don’t go by fashion. My greatest regret... No regrets in life. I’m happy and blessed for all that I am today. You may not know it but I’m no good at... Driving. My various car designs will prove this; so ride with me at your own risk. You may not know it but I’m very good at… Dancing. If I have time to myself... I would go out on more trips, would do business, and also do a lot more social work. My house is... In Ghubra… It is a few minutes away from my work place, the school, shopping

malls, beach...it has got a garden and pets outside. It’s got wonderful people in it too. My favorite haunt/holiday destination... Singapore! My favourite weekend spot in Oman… Muttrah Souq and the Corniche. I will not leave my house without… My bag, jacket, phone, diary and mobile charger. Things I like about Oman… The natural beauty, peace, the ruler, its culture and, most of all, the people. A book that changed me... The Holy Quran! It taught me not to get charged or worried about anything in this world and to live life as it comes. On top of my wish/bucket list is... To die as one of the best human beings that people knew. My success mantra is... Be passionate about everything you do and success will follow. In 10 years’ time, I hope to be... Completely serving the community, playing with a few grandchildren, visiting more places, developing more business heads, giving consultancy services to deserving national women... the list can just go on.

JJu July uly ly 2016 201 016 016

in CONVERSATION

Up Close & Personal With

21 21

Centre STAGE

When children call for peace

150 children, 94 nationalities, one message: PEACE

took off with the objective of making people sit up and notice children’s efforts to send the message of peace across the world.

The art initiative culminated in an exhibition at Muscat Grand Mall in May this year with a team of organisers and experts, including Ibrahim Gailani, Founder of Gailani Art Retreat and a team of organisers. Dr. Saleh’s concern for world peace and empowerment of children found immediate resonance among likeminded people and the initiative

With Gailani taking up the role of a curator and mentor, children from 94 nationalities, most of them studying in the British School, Knowledge Gate International, Muscat International School and Al Ruwad International School, created individual paintings on the theme of world peace, to become a part of a magnum opus of a project.The call to have representation from maximum number of countries around the world saw the organisers including student representatives from Fiji and Panama to Venezuela to Afghanistan. The students in the age group of 8 to 14 worked around the theme of world peace and what it means to be in Oman as a representative of their country.

s terror attacks continue to shake the world and spread fear syndrome, an inspiring art initiative, featuring pictorial messages of peace by children in Oman, is set to reach UNICEF headquarters in Paris this October. The ‘Call of Peace’ art initiative, conceptualised by noted Omani intellectual, Dr. Saleh Al Fahdi, who heads the Values Centre in Mabela, will make its presence on a global platform when it reaches the UNICEF office.

July 2016

The ideas projected on to the canvas were very poignant, notes Gailani, who helped children visualise their concepts and render it on to the canvas. The visual messages of peace came out starkly in their strokes and colours, some of which simply had the word PEACE worked on to the canvas. The paintings were unveiled at a formal event, under the auspices of H.E. Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs, who threw the spotlight on Oman’s historic role in promoting global peace. The event, which gained popular support on social media, could turn into an annual affair if it finds sponsorship support. (Give peace a chance. Check the website callofpeace.com to support their efforts)

Young sailors of

Centre STAGE

Oman

The Optimist World Championship gave Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s young sailors a platform to demonstrate their sailing skills and the potential to take up challenges

articipating in a stiff international competition against 59 other countries were the young members of Omantel Youth Sailing Programme, representing Oman in the Optimist World Championship, which was held in Vilamoura on the south coast of Portugal. After tough days of racing in light airs and blistering heat in the Optimist class, 13-year old Al Moatasem Al Farsi led the Oman charge, achieving 187th place in a field of 258 youngsters and qualifying for the Bronze fleet. Following him was Mohammed Al Alawi (age 13) standing in 204th place, qualifying for the Emerald fleet. Meanwhile, the other three members, all aged 12, included Mohammed Al Qasmi who got in 243rd place, followed by Ali Al Riyami in 245th place, and Jihad Al Hasni in 250th place overall. Ten youngsters, who are ranked as Oman Sailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best Optimist

sailors in Oman had lined up against 70 young counterparts from 14 different nations around the world to acclimatise to the conditions in Vilamoura and the challenging environment presented by largescale competitions. Only five of them were selected to compete in the World Championship.

fleets, congested start lines and other techniques of sailing. It was a chance to boost their confidence ahead of a large-scale event, one that many of the youngsters were unfamiliar with, and also arm them with the tools they needed to compete at this level in competitive international arenas.

The championship spanned a course of eight days with the individual competition preceding a team event. For the Omani team, the championships followed immediately after the conclusion of a training and practice event.

The young sailors worked hard to make gains in their starts, speeds, tactics and transitions to improve individual rankings. There was also a chance to spend time exchanging knowledge and expertise with their counterparts from other countries such as Canada, Malta and Hong Kong

As part of their preparatory session, their skills were pitted against the talents of children from 14 other nations, equipping them to cope better with large

JJu July uly ly 2016 20 01 1 16 6

23 23

in the SPOTLIGHT

Souq Al Mina

Muttrah’s scenic promenade is all set to attract businesses, enhance shopping opportunities and boost tourism with the upcoming Souq Al Mina project

he upcoming Souq Al Mina project, amidst the Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront, is Oman’s most ambitious and large-scale infrastructure project, which will definitely be a game changer in the country’s tourism and business sector. The new waterfront development is proposed to be spread across 451,000 square meters, out of which 3,300 square meters will be occupied by numerous retail outlets.

Through this project, the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), hopes to see a significant boost in the country’s tourism services, provide ample opportunities for Omani entrepreneurs to exhibit their talents and investors to participate in a unique and unparalleled marketplace offering. Over the past few months, Omran received a surprisingly

July 2016

enthusiastic response from retail aspirants, in spite of the project being almost 5 years away. Local Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), have been shooting innovative business ideas and have been truly inspirational to Omran with their creativity and quality of propositions, which have helped provide an excellent showcase of the diversity and talent that exists in the country’s youth. Initially, the selection committee at Omran received around 260 applications from SMEs covering a variety of activities such as handicrafts, jewelry, florists, confectioneries, horticulture products, cafes, cosmetic and body care, recreational activities and many more. The list was narrowed down to 180 applicants, based on aspects like sustainability, planning, market potential, strength of vision and innovative approach. The shortlisted candidates were invited to put forward their business propositions at a special exhibition

organised at Omran’s headquarters; those selected at this stage will secure their retail spaces and directly interact with the visitors at the waterfront by the end of 2016. A friendly atmosphere between the candidates, despite the stiff competition, has made the process even more encouraging and smoother. One such ambitious entrepreneur says, “Although I am competing against these other SMEs, it fills me with pride and excitement to see so much local Omani talent in one place.” It has been estimated that the first phase of the Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront will be ready by 2020. It will consist various hospitality, lifestyle, entertainment, cultural zones and residential units that will redefine the experience of Muscat and ultimately give a truly authentic experience to tourists, while advocating Muttrah’s deep-rooted culture and heritage

Teenage author Aditya Chandrashekar’s debut e-novel, ‘The Sentinel’, is available for easy download

‘The Sentinel’, a young writer’s attempts to put his thoughts to pen has resulted in an e-book that was launched early last month at a private function in the capital. The book by 15-year old Aditya Chandrashekar, an alumnus of Indian School Al Ghubra, is available at https://www. smashwords.com/books/view/641384. The book is a futuristic, teen-adventure fiction set in the 2040s. Presented in a conversational style, the story moves at a brisk pace. The cover image of the book, depicting a watchtower, is an important part of the storyline, maintains the author, crediting the design to his friend Aanvik Singh, a student of Indian school Muscat. “The Sentinel has an edge of the seat, nail biting feel; it is a book which has the storyline to be made into a movie,” says, Sushmita Gupta, a Muscat based artist and poet who has written the foreword for the book. Mayank Singh, Group Editor at UMS Group of Publication, who has edited the book, notes that Aditya’s choice of words and phrases show extreme maturity, way beyond his age in terms of plot, writing, and discipline that has gone into his effort.

in the SPOTLIGHT

The Sentinel

Aditya, who is currently studying in India, has had the story telling habit from early years with his uncanny ability to elaborately narrate events and dramatise them. Aditya has a penchant for reading, and is an avid quizzer; he has won many quiz competitions in Muscat and in India, the most prestigious being the Times of Oman Junior championship. He has also been ranked No. 1 in the International English Olympiad conducted by Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) for the year 2016. His distinctive love for movies and books has, perhaps, influenced and kindled his mind to think beyond his age. ‘The Sentinel’, is Aditya’s first effort in writing fiction

July 2016

feast ON When in

Rossiniâ&#x20AC;Ś If you believe that the next best thing to eating is talking about it, visit Rossini to savour all things Italian and keep talking about its yum quotient

verlooking the picturesque Darsait hills and the sea beyond, Rossini, the Italian restaurant located at The Cave, Muscat, is a sensorial treat. Named after the famous composer Gioachino Rossini, this fine-dining eatery, is a gourmet haven for those seeking an Italian rendezvous, right in the capital. An impressive array of dishes, authentic Italian cuisine and a great ambience, set the tone of dining out at Rossini, making it a magical experience. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the food, the setting or its rich interiors, which are designed to enhance the distinct landscape of the location, Rossini, a part of Four Seasons Oman, will not fial to impress you (Four Seasons Oman manage a chain of premium restaurants around Oman). With an abundance of choices to set the mood of your evening, the quaint dĂŠcor and soothing music add a romantic feel to the restaurant. If you are looking for some privacy in a secluded ambience, check out the refined setting in the private hall, which can easily transform

Linguine

pasta

WATCH FACES COME ALIVE.

into a family room, depending on your preference. But if your interests lie in spending some alone time at the bar or relishing a cigar in the specially designed Cigar Lounge, Rossini is the place to be. Alongside gourmet meals, it caters to its regular patrons and visitors seeking an Italian break with a flexible menu that can be adapted to suit the palates of different foodies; their talented chefs are open to create

JJuly uly ly 2016 201 016 6 Spinach soup

feast ON

Porcini Mushroom Bruschetta with Anchovies

even special tailor made dishes. We got a taste of their expertise with our requests for a couple of vegetarian items. Ryan Stallwood, manager of the restaurant and our host for the afternoon, accompanied by his cordial team of staff, made us feel all the more welcome and added to the hospitable air of Rossini. We were acquainted with the all-rounded menu by the head chef himself and introduced to a variety of freshly picked ingredients imported from countries all over the globe. Our feast began with a selection of tempting starters, the sight of which we could barely resist. To begin with, we were served portions of Porcini Mushroom Bruschetta with Anchovies, which both looked and tasted unique in terms of flavours. In addition to this, we crunched away on an Avocado and Prawn Salad, along with a savoury dried beef Bresaola with fresh, mixed greens. To wrap up the appetisers and the refreshing amuse bouche of melon and mint shots, there came a rich spinach leaf soup, with its creaminess so smooth, one wouldn’t get a chance to complain. Leaving us craving for more, the toothsome starters were followed by an even attractive course of mains. We first tasted a Grilled Cod fish fillet dipped in a luscious saffron and capers sauce, which was served with a siding of mashed potato and broccoli. The dish was also topped with delicate polenta chips, prepared fresh in the Rossini kitchen, adding crunchiness to an otherwise soft fillet. Next came a delicious platter of a well-cooked Duck Breast Confit lined with demi sauce and an accompaniment of sliced roast potato and mixed veggies. The scrumptious

Avocado and Prawn Salad

Duck Breast Confit

duck, slightly charred yet tender in the centre, was a delight to eat; and the saltiness of the potatoes perfectly balanced out the taste. Lastly, came the Scallop Linguine pasta topped with cherry tomatoes and a slight addition of chilli that tingled our taste buds. And finally for the part everyone loves – dessert! A little sweet at the end of a wonderful meal, doesn’t hurt anybody. Given options between a mouthwatering blueberry cheesecake and a delectable chocolate mousse pastry, we decided to gorge on both. No doubt, the cakes were finger-licking and melted in our mouths with every bite we took. Yum... Those in search of a top-class fine dining restaurant should definitely pay a visit to Rossini and eat their ir fill here. The restaurant features es Bella Rossini (beautiful Rossini) on n Tuesdays - a special night with live ve music and a set menu offered at an affordable price for a group of 6 and and above. On Thursdays sdays the restaurant restauran nt organises a night ht with deep house housse music and a ‘chef’s hef’s special’ menu, menu u,

setting a semi party-like atmosphere! Add these days to your calendar, and cherish your experience at the Cave’s Cave s Rossini! - By Heloise Tushar Vyas

Beef Bresaola with mixed greens

Blueb

er r y

chee

secak

JJuly Ju ully y 2016 20 01 16 Photographs: Pushpender Sharma

Chocolate

mousse past

27 2 7 ry

School

let’s COOK

Lunchbox

IDEAS

Easy to cook and easy to pack recipes to make your child happy and your mornings hassle-free Roll Up

Pizza Quesadilla

Peanut Butter, jelly and apple roll-ups, if your child has a sweet tooth

A simple lunchbox pizza that can be made in ways that suit your child’s palette

Ingredients z Flour tortillas – 2 z Creamy peanut butter – 2tbsp z Jam (of your choice) - 4tsp z Apple (remove skin and cut into thin wedges) – 1 z Melted butter - 1tsp z Sugar – 2tsp z Ground cinnamon – a pinch Directions 1. Microwave the tortillas for 10 seconds to soften. 2. Spread each with a tablespoon of peanut butter and 2 teaspoon jam. 3. Heat oven to 400°F. 4. Place 2-3 apple wedges in the center of each tortilla and roll up. 5. Transfer rolls to baking sheet and brush with melted butter. 6. Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small cup and sprinkle half of mixture on top of each roll. 7. Bake 10 minutes or until golden brown. 8. Let cool 5 minutes before eating.

Ingredients z Flour tortillas (small size to fit in lunchbox) 2 (8 inches) z Spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce - 3tbspn z Shredded cheese - 1/4cup z Pepperoni – 8 slices Directions 1. Spray the bottom of a non-stick skillet with cooking spray and preheat. 2. When the pan is fairly hot place 1 Flour Tortilla in the pan. 3. Quickly (before the bottom starts to brown) spread on a few tablespoons of sauce and add a layer of pepperoni or any item that your child likes. 4. Top it with shredded cheese and place the second flour tortilla; let it brown before flipping it over. 5. After both sides are browned and the insides are hot and melted, take it out to cool. 6. When cooled, cut it into quarters and pack it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Pizza Scrolls This yummy snack can be had cold or hot and is ideal for your child’s lunchbox Ingredients z Red capsicum (chopped finely) - 1/2 small z Beef salami (chopped fine) - 100gms z Cheese (grated) - 1/2cup z Pizza sauce - 1/4cup z Puff pastry (ready rolled) - 2sheets Directions 1. Preheat oven to 200°c. 2. Combine the chopped capsicum, salami and cheese in bowl. 3. Spread the sauce onto each sheet of pastry, leaving a 2cm border along one side; sprinkle the capsicum mixture over the top. 4. Roll up the pastry to enclose the filling, leaving the plain edge until last. Brush the edge lightly with water and fold to seal. 5. Cut each roll into 1cm rounds and place on lined oven trays. 6. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.

July 2016

Health CHECK

WASH BEFORE YOU EAT

Your fruit and vegetables are dirtier than you think…

f you like the idea of staying hydrated during summer by consuming fruits and vegetables, this little lesson in cleaning your fruits and vegetables right, compiled by Helpling.ae* with the help of cleaning experts, will prove to be handy.

Why should you wash fruits and vegetables?

Fruits, which travel thousands of kilometres before ending up in your shopping basket, are, generally, sprayed with a toxic cocktail of pesticides to keep them fresh. This can cause stomach cramps, fever or headache and even lead to food poisoning, asthma or diabetes, in extreme cases. Another germ trap is your local supermarket... You may find people picking up and smelling melons or checking the consistence of 10 avocados with dirty hands, before selecting one. Your own hands hold up to 4700 different types of bacteria! But not only are our hands a magnet for germs and dirt, flies love to lay their eggs in fruit and vegetable boxes too.

July 2016

How to wash off bacteria properly?

Only 15 seconds of washing fruits and vegetables in cold water can reduce up to 98 percent of the bacteria. But do not wash the fruit for long, as it will damage their natural protective layer and lose important vitamins. Make sure that you wash your fruits and veggies right before consuming them - bacteria love to multiply in moisture.

Still have doubts on how to wash VSHFLÀF IUXLWV RU YHJJLHV" Apples and pears: Instead of peeling the fruit, wash it thoroughly, as the vitamins are in the skin. This way you make sure to take the recommended daily dose of vitamins and stay healthy. Berries and grapes: Soft fruits should be washed carefully by soaking them in water instead of squashing them under running water. Let the fruit dry on a paper towel. Melon, mango, avocado: Even if you do not eat the skin of some fruits and vegetables, there will be germs and pesticides that can reach the fruit’s pulp while peeling and cutting them - through the blade or

your hands. Rinse the skin with warm water before preparing your next fruit salad. Another trick to really disinfect them is by mixing one tablespoon each of white vinegar and lemon juice with one cup of water and spraying it on the skin of melon or similar fruits. Rinse the fruits under water after ten minutes. Potatoes, carrots, radishes: Scrub away the dirt on vegetables with a rough surface before washing it. Then peel and wash again - you never know what can be hidden. Salad: Ready-made salads are often full of yeasts and mildew, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Let the lettuce soak in cold water, so that minerals won’t wash away. Dry the leaves in a salad spinner. Extra tip: acidic salad dressings can have disinfectant effects! In combination with a prior washing, the vinegar reduces the bacterial count in your salad to less than one percent! *Helpling.ae is an online platform for household services in the Middle East.

Health CHECK

Your child’s health and developmental milestones Concerned about your child’s health and his/ her overall growth? Dr. Suja Haneef, Specialist - Paediatrics, Burjeel Medical Center, answers some of the common queries raised by parents in the course of her work Is my child growing and developing normally? Children, even those who are growing and developing normally, don’t all grow at the same pace. That can make it hard for parents to know if their child is truly developing normally. Questions like is he talking enough? Did he walk on time? Does he have enough friends? Is he too short… are bound to arise. Although reviewing developmental milestones and following growth charts can help you monitor your child’s growth and development, nothing beats simply asking your paediatrician to make sure your child isn’t delayed. Does my child really need antibiotics to get better? At one time, it seemed like parents expected antibiotics for every cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Most are getting better at recognising that these are mostly viral symptoms and do not usually need an antibiotic prescription. Some paediatricians are still quick to break out their pads and write prescriptions for antibiotics though, which helps explain why antibiotics are still being overused. Surprisingly, this is often because they think that parents expect the prescription. If you don’t, ask your paediatrician if your child’s antibiotic prescription is really necessary the next time she has a mild infection.

Dr. Suja Haneef

What are the side effects of my child’s medications? Although all medications can have some possible side effects, most children take them without any problems at all. And when they are necessary, like when an antibiotic is prescribed for strep throat, the very low risk of side effects is so far outweighed by the benefits that you almost don’t think twice about giving them to your child. Is my child at a healthy weight? With the current childhood obesity epidemic, you would think that weight management would come up when a child visits her paediatrician. Unfortunately, parents rarely make visits to discuss a child’s weight problems, and paediatricians often have a hard time bringing up the topic. Discussing obesity is especially difficult for some paediatricians when the child’s parents are overweight themselves, or if they are afraid to hurt the child’s feelings. Ask your paediatrician for your child’s body mass index (BMI), and about whether or not he/she is at a healthy weight, at his/her next well child visit. If you are not due for a well visit, then schedule a visit specifically to discuss his/her weight, nutrition and, if necessary, weight loss goals. (For more information call 22085252; email: info@bmcoman.com)

J ly Ju July l 2016 201 16

31 31

Healthy TIDINGS

Obesity no longer linked to

higher risk of death

According to a new study, obesity could be less dangerous than it was 40 years ago. Researchers found that the 30 percent excess risk of premature death, associated with obesity in the 1970s, has fallen to zero. The increased risk of all-cause mortality associated with obesity, compared to normal weight, decreased from 30 percent in 1976-78 to 0 percent in 2003-2013. But researchers have warned against interpreting the study wrongly. “We are not suggesting that now people can eat as much as they like, or that so-called normal weight individuals should eat more to become overweight. That said, maybe overweight people need not be quite as worried about their weight as before,” they state.

Mental illness

mostly caused by life events

Life events, not genetics, cause mental illness, argue psychologists. Mental illness is largely caused by social crises such as unemployment or childhood abuse, but too much money is spent researching genetic and biological factors, they note. While there has been some success in uncovering genes, which make people more susceptible to various disorders, specialists say that the true causes of depression and anxiety are from life events and environment, and research should be directed towards understanding the everyday triggers. Almost half of adults will suffer from a mental health condition at some stage in their life and more than a third of GP surgery consultations are due to mental problems.

obesity contagious?

Following a study that explored characteristics of bacteria living in the human gut, scientists have suggested that obesity could be contagious like superbug C diff. The study did not, however, look at any link to obesity, but they speculated that bowel conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, or obesity, could be caused by an imbalance of gut bacteria. Researchers showed that about 40 percent of the gut bacteria known to scientists could be cultured. Further investigation found some can live and be transferred outside the body by producing spores, which are germinated by gut acids when they reach a new host, in this case another human. The superbug Clostridium difficile (C diff), which causes diarrhoea, is known to spread from person to person in this way.

July 2016

Short bursts of

intense

exercise as effective as endurance training

Short bursts of intense exercise produce similar results to traditional longer-duration workouts, say researchers, who compared two types of exercise programmes over a 12-week period. The two programmes were a 10-minute ‘intense’ workout, three times a week (referred to as Sprint Interval Training), and a 50-minute moderate intensity workout, once a week. At the end of the study, they found similar improvements in reliable fitness markers in both groups, such as the body’s response to insulin, peak uptake of oxygen and the functioning of muscle cells. However, researchers warn that very high-intensity exercise is not suitable for everyone.

essential oils

Children are increasingly at risk from essential oils that are often used in natural remedies, according to a Tennessee poison centre report. Between 2011 and 2015, reports of toxic exposures to these oils - such as tea tree oil - doubled, the report said. Even more alarming, four out of every five cases were in children. The oils, which are derived from plants and used in aromatic and homeopathic products, can cause harm when consumed. And children face a heightened risk from exposure, the experts said; children have also been poisoned by excessive or inappropriate application of essential oils to the skin.

healthy TIDINGS

More kids accidentally poisoned by

Depressed moms not with their children

‘in sync’

A new study from Binghamton University has found that mothers with a history of depression are not physiologically ‘in sync’ with their kids. While researchers have known for a while that depression is associated with interpersonal problems with others, this is the first study to examine whether this is also evident physiologically. Researchers measured heart rate variability, a physiological measure of social engagement, in children aged 7-11 and their mothers (44 with a history of depression, 50 with no history of depression) while they engaged in positive and negative discussions. Preliminary evidence suggests that synchrony during interactions is disrupted at the physiological level in families with a history of maternal depression and it may be a potential risk factor for the intergenerational transmission of depression.

green tea

Can boost your brainpower and treat disease?

Experts around the world have been studying green tea extracts and specific compounds within them for their potential to lower the risk of various conditions: cancer, blood pressure, cholesterol and even Alzheimer’s disease. Although evidence of their benefits is limited and often inconclusive, recent studies have found that one particular compound inside green tea, known as EGCG, could improve the functioning of one particular part of the body: the brain.

Breakfast isn’t the most important meal of the day

That breakfast is the most important meal of the day has little scientific basis, note researchers. Dieticians and health experts have long promoted the benefits of eating breakfast as an energy booster and a way to kick-start the metabolism; but the idea that skipping this meal makes you overeat later in the day isn’t completely true, say researchers. In order to test whether breakfast boosts health, they asked one group of people to eat a breakfast of 700 calories or more, while another group only drank water until lunch. They found that those who had skipped breakfast ate more lunch, but not enough to make up the 700-calorie deficit. They found skipping breakfast did not affect fat levels or make people gain more weight.

July 2016

in the LUXE

Haute

Ice Creams Treat your parched throat to some exclusive ice creams from the world of desserts Strawberries Arnaud

Unless you have a few millions lying loose around the house or have listed this decadent dessert on your bucket-list, you probably wouldn’t consider blowing 1.4 million dollars on an ice cream that requires you to travel all the way to New Orleans. Created by pastry chefs at Arnaud in New Orleans, the most expensive dessert in the world combines vanilla ice cream, strawberries, spices, mint and more into one divine item. The elegant 4.7-carat diamond ring that adorns the top of the strawberries is what makes this one expensive dessert. When you order one of this at the hotel you will be treated to a jazz ensemble, as you tuck into it. Price: $1.4 million

Frozen Chocolate Haute

Absurdity Sundae

This is not just any sundae… When you order one of these exclusive ice creams, you get a first class ticket to Tanzania and a stay in a five star hotel, along with a guided climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Absurdity Sundae from the Three Twins Ice Cream Company is designed to be a travel experience with a perfect finale - the company founder will act as a private chef, as he creates the ice cream sundae right in front of you. It is, interestingly, created from fresh glacial ice from Mount Kilimanjaro. Price: $60,000

July 2016

It was a quest to beat the Guinness World Record that inspired New York City’s Serendipity 3 hotel to create the Frozen Chocolate Haute ice - an enticing blend of rare cocoas, milk, whipped cream and truffle pieces. The finished product includes five grams of 23-karat gold and is served in a rare gold cup with a gold spoon adorned with diamonds, which you get to keep. As a souvenir, you also get a rare 18-karat bracelet. Price: $25,000

in the LUXE

Ice Cream Dessert Sundae

Designed by the Three Twins Company, this ice cream dessert sundae is covered in enticing syrups and is served with a unique antique spoon from the 1850s. And, as you tuck into this delicacy, you will be treated to an exclusive cello performance to add to your sensorial pleasure. Price: $3,333.33

Golden Opulence

Compared with the over one million priced ‘Strawberries Arnaud’, this sundae, priced at $1,000, might seem a pittance; but the highlights of the ice cream are equally impressive. Golden Opulence Sundae from New York City’s Serendipity 3 has vanilla bean ice cream, chocolate, and a 23-carat gold leaf, in addition to dessert caviar, truffles, candied fruit, gilded sugar flower and marzipan. The chocolates used in the recipe are the rare and expensive Amedei Porcelana and Venezuelan Chuao. It is served in a glass goblet with a special gold spoon; but if you have the urge to eat one of them, you better make a reservation 48 hours earlier. Price: $1,000

Black Diamond

Mega Sundae

This Mauboussin Mega Sundae from the Bagatelle eatery is a concoction with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate truffles, gold leaves, special sorbet, French macaroons, dark chocolate brownies and a spirited sauce. The brownies are coated with 24-karat gold and the ice cream is served in a large glass, along with a keepsake unique gift. Price: $1,000

Closer home, at Dubai’s Scoop Café to be exact, you could savour this exclusive Diamond ice cream dessert, which, according to the owner of the café, took five weeks to perfect with the right combination of ingredients, including saffron and black truffle. At the bottom of the dessert is Madagascar vanilla bean ice cream, which is then adorned with 23-karat gold leaf. The Diamond is served in an individual bowl made by Versace - you can keep that as well as the spoon which comes with it. Price: $817

July 2016

A tryst with

explore OMAN

history Oman’s forts, which stand as sentinels of history, are seeped in tradition and heritage, providing visitors with a rich experience of the country

Bahla Fort

man’s heritage tourism is a learning experience for domestic as well as international tourists. Whether one is visiting the museums, castles or the forts, the architectural edifices, in strategic locations, present Oman’s rich history and its colourful heritage.

WATCH FACES COME ALIVE.

With the weather still hovering along the summer zone and the outdoors not exactly beckoning, a visit to one of the forts in the country could prove to be a perfect weekend break and an interesting lesson in Oman’s history...

Bahla Fort

Bahla Fort, which is included in the World Heritage Sites List, lies in Wilayat Bahla in A’Dakhiliyah Governorate. It is located less than 2 kilometres away from Muscat by car, and presents the Bahla Oasis with its traditional souks, old alleys, ancient mosques; its wall extends over a distance of approximately 13 kilometres, adding to the splendour of the structure. Construction of this Fort, with its walls and towers of unbaked brick and stone foundations, is dated back to the pre-Islamic era. It was originally built in the third millennium BC and is believed to have been designed for defence purposes with its terraces, apertures for opening fire and guardhouses.

Al Fiqayn Fort

Around 170 kilometres away from Muscat lies the Al Fiqayn Fort in Wilayat Manah of A’Dakhiliyah Governorate. With a strategic location in the centre of Al Fayqayn Village, the Fort is easy to locate. It features four storeys through which you can see the old quarters as well as the surrounding farms. Characterised by its unique architectural design, it is an experience to cherish.

Nakhal Fort

Described as one of the most prominent historical monuments of Oman, the Nakhal Fort, which lies resplendent in the palm orchards of Wilayat Nakhal

July 2016 June 2016

in Al Batinah South Governorate, rises above a rocky hill at the base of Mount Nakhal in the northeast of Jabal Akhdar. Also known as Husn Al Heem, it is about 12 kilometres away from Muscat. Built around a rock formation, the Nakhal Fort’s architecture does not seem to follow any particular pattern, with the structure displaying some of the rock parts. Nakhal Fort

explore OMAN Al Rustaq Fort

Sohar Fort

Nizwa Fort

Mirbat Fort

Nizwa Fort

Located in A’Dakhiliyah Governorate, just an hour away from Muscat, is the Nizwa Fort, which is one of the oldest structures in Oman. It has a uniquely large circular shape and its height reaches 24 metres, with an outer diameter of 43 metres. The Fort has seven wells and multiple openings that demonstrate its purpose as a defence structure. It took 12 years to build this Fort and it is linked with a castle through intricate corridors.

Al Rustaq Fort

The city of Al Rustaq, in the South of Batinah region, was once the capital of Oman. It has two attractions that have made it an important tourist destination: Al Hazm Castle and Al Rustaq Fort. The Fort, originally built in 1250, was reconstructed during the reign of the Al Y’aribah in the 16th century. It has four towers – The Red Tower, Wind Tower, Devils Tower and the Modern Tower – and consists of weapon stores, a mosque, a prison and water wells.

Sohar Fort

The Sohar Fort is one of the most striking landmarks of Sohar; made important owing to its strategic location in Al Batinah North Governorate. The Fort, dating back to the end of the thirteenth century and beginning of the fourteenth century, displays features that were built during the rule of the Portuguese. It includes a museum, which was opened in 1993; it showcases archaeological and historical facets of Sohar as well as Oman.

Mirbat Fort

There is more to Salalah than the annual Khareef Festival. The Mirbat Fort, located in Mirbat, Dhofar Governorate’s most historically important city, holds the distinction of hosting one of the last battles in the world involving conventional attack and defence of a fortress in the mid-1970s. It was restored as a cultural heritage attraction in 1991.

Forts in Muscat

Oman has a wealth of forts around the country, including the capital, whose share of spectacular forts, located in the popular corniche area, are mostly off-limits for visitors. The Al Jalali Fort, whose two towers are connected by a wall punctuated with holes for cannons, is completely isolated and cannot be accessed from its rocky façade. The Al Mirani Fort, also known as Al Gharbiya Fort owing to its strategic structure and view of a high rocky hill, is in old Muscat. It overlooks the Sea of Oman and can be reached by climbing a flight of stairs carved into the rock; however, visitors can only view the castle from the outside. The Muttrah Fort is another prominent landmark of Muscat. Located on the top of a rocky narrow hill, facing the sea, it seems as if it was the only link connecting Muttrah and Muscat. It is generally closed for visitors.

July 2016

Are we there yet?

Just TRAVEL

Take a trip to one of these child-friendly destinations that promise to engage your kids in fun-filled activities and attract you with a carefree holiday

hen it comes to deciding what city to visit on a family vacation, there is often a clash of interests between parents and kids. While some places may be magnificent in terms of natural beauty and have centuries-old monuments that fascinate elders, you may find the little ones getting all restless for something a tad bit exciting. Ideally, you need to find destinations that offer the right mix of fun and appeal to suit the tastes and interests of everyone. We have compiled a list of five exhilarating cities that will not only cater to your kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; short attention spans, but also make it as much a memorable experience for you as parents. Bangkok, Thailand

July 2016

Copenhagen, Denmark

The beautiful capital city of Denmark is truly a city for kids. It is home to Bakken, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest amusement park; packed with exciting and extreme adventures and also surrounded by lush woodlands, it is also perfect for a short picnic. Other popular attractions in Copenhagen include the Crown Jewel, Tivoli garden, state of the art zoo, the Blue Planet aquarium and many more!

Bangkok, Thailand

Contrary to popular belief, this city, which is probably better known for wild nights than family fun, is full of kid-friendly offerings. Famous for its affordability, Bangkok is packed with dozens of activities, classes and shows that cater specifically to the young ones and is definitely a MUST visit destination. Take your child on a tuk-tuk ride, dine at the robots restaurant and dedicate a whole day just to spend at the Funarium. Along with the Siam Ocean World and the dolls museum, there are 30 other fun attractions. Check them online to pick the ones that suit you and your kids.

Just TRAVEL

Anaheim, California

Dubai, UAE

Paris, France

Anaheim, California

Located just outside of Los Angeles, in Southern California, Anaheim is home to the vast Disneyland resort, which is every child’s ultimate paradise. Disneyland is the only theme park built under the direct supervision of Walt Disney, and has been attracting millions of tourists from all over the globe for the past 61 years. Colourful and vibrant, the massive complex consists of several themed rides, shops, restaurants and hotels. You can plan your stay at the resort itself and let your child have a fabulous time, no matter what age group!

Dubai, UAE

Another bustling, vibrant city, Dubai is one where you are most likely to have crammed itineraries spanning a variety of things that you can do together as a family, especially those your children would love. It has everything from the world’s largest indoor snow park to junglelike terrains. A few popular children attractions include the marina water bus, the Atlantis adventure park, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Miracle Garden, dolphin watching, camel racing, fountains, ‘Bounce’, and the list goes on…

World famous for the sprawling Eiffel tower, the nooks and crannies of Paris have lots of excitement to offer to both parents and kids alike. We highly recommend that kids should take the Paris by Mouth Food Tours (the name speaks for itself!) coupled with the Fat Tire Bike Tours, making it the perfect way to roam around the city in a fun and interesting way. Those in search of something typically ‘Parisian’ should go shop around the Canal Saint Martin and take a short trip to the Pop market for cutesy products. In addition to these, other fascinating activities include the local puppet show, magic and natural history museum, Luxembourg garden and the unique Pompidou Centre. - Compiled by Heloise Tushar Vyas

Paris, France

July 2016

Mommy, can I apply

look GOOD

lipstick? Things that are taboo are somehow irresistible, especially during the early years when the ‘do this, don’t do that’ parenting rant seems punishing

akeup may not be a strictly taboo topic in most households, but there is that defining line that parents need to heed when consenting to their tween’s demand. For, every woman, no matter how young or old, wants to look and feel beautiful. While there is no substitute for natural beauty, even the ones endowed with perfectly symmetrical face would want to indulge in a little makeup sometime or the other to enhance those features. Whether it’s bright shining lips, glowing cheeks or sharpened eyes – makeup surely does make a difference.

40 40

July JJu June uly ly 2016 22016 01 0 16

Makeup experts and dermatologists, however, suggest that the use of make up on the face should be avoided at a young age, owing to the reaction of chemicals on the sensitive skin of young girls. It is then necessary to keep in mind both the dos and don’ts while beautifying yourself. But yes, this is the time to discover your feminity and satisfy your constant urge to look good: so go ahead! Make up tips are generally the same for both teenage girls and older women in their 30s and 40s, but there are a few important things the younger ones should keep in mind. Always remember – your original glow MUST be retained; mistakes made at a young age could have a long lasting impact on your skin.

LIFESTYLE MANTRA DONTS: z z z

z z z z

Do not buy products without testing them on your skin first If you have acne, don’t use foundation Do not pluck out dry skin from your lips. Keep them moist and hydrated using lip balm, and only then apply beauty products Do not use expired products, as it may leave marks on your skin which may become permanent Never go to bed with your make-up on. Use a make-up remover pad and gently rub it off Make sure your mascara isn’t clumped together Do not use a heavy moisturiser for light skin care

DOS: z z z z z z z z

Dust light powder over your face to even out the skin tone Prefer a pencil liner over a liquid liner, and apply it with a slow and steady hand Apply light coloured blushes and stroke it outwards from the cheek to the hairline Blend in all the make-up well, and, preferably, keep all elements matched to a particular colour Keep mascara and eye liner to a minimum Use a lip liner that closely matches your lipstick or a shade darker Girls usually love a sun-kissed look - try a peach-coloured blush Use sunscreen before applying make-up to maintain your young look and protect your skin

Keeping the above points in mind, and with a little bit of guidance from the elder women at home, you will be ready to rock a glam look! To perfectly combine the rest of your attire with the makeup, you can also apply matching nail paint and keep your hair colour closest to its natural tone. If you are not sure about how to get your eye or lip make-up right and how it will look on your skin, you can always first try it out on a piece of paper so that you get an accurate picture. It’s not a problem if you don’t get your look right in the first go - it takes multiple tries to get the hang of it! Make sure to use good quality products, regardless of its cost, and not compromise on your skin. Finally, always remember that ‘less is more’; don’t overdo your make-up, follow our tips, put a confident smile on your face, and get ready to dazzle!

HAPPY TEENS By Sophia Raman ‘CAREFREE’, PROBABLY, BEST DESCRIBES THOSE WONDROUS TEEN YEARS; BUT THERE IS NO DENYING THAT THIS BEAUTIFUL PHASE OF OUR LIVES BRINGS WITH IT ITS SHARE OF INSECURITIES AND IDENTITY ISSUES The sheer vivacity of youth and those insuppressible feelings of invincibility have a way of bolstering teens to explore newer vistas and indulge in adventurous (even daredevilry) activities. But there is more to it than meets the eyes… Although teen years appear to be the utopia of life, the teenage zone isn’t always rosy, as teens are, frequently, or occasionally, overcome by physiological and psychological issues. All of us, whether we have crossed our teens or are currently reveling the joys of that phase, would have had a taste of those difficult times when certain issues shake us up and make us question life. With teen years playing such a defining role in our physiological and psychological makeup, it is all about maintaining the right balance. If you are in the teen zone, remember to be yourself. Always. To build confidence and feel comfortable, it is important to be yourself at all costs. This will also stand you in good stead in school/college, as good grades will only help make things easy for you, not forgetting better scope for higher education. Teen years also provide the perfect platform to hone your talents, develop skills and adopt new hobbies that have a long term effect on your life. And if you have supportive friends, life in the teen lane could be the most fruitful. Reach for the stars…

July 2016

style FILE

Get Back-toSchool in style Kit them out for success with exclusive merchandise from MAX Give wings to your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fantasy with an array of exciting cartoon characters in school bags, lunchboxes, water bottles and stationery boxes WATCH FACES COME ALIVE.

Finding Dory Lunch Box & Water Bottle

Uniforms are special...

Shopkins Lunch Box & Water Bottle

July 2016 Batman Vs Superman Trolley Backpack, Lunch bag, Water bottle and Pencil puch

Style S tyle FIL

Backpack with Lunch Bag and Pouch from Shopkins

Ben 10 Printed Backpack, Lunchbox, Water bottle and Pencil

July 2016

Printed Trolley Backpack with Lunch Bag and Pouch

Put a smile on your angelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face with this cool Disneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Minnie Mouse inspired string bag

style FILE

Minnie Mouse Lunch Bag

Minnie Mouse Pencil Case

Spiderman Print Lunch Set

Appealing backpacks sporting a dual-tone and stylish look

July 2016

Minion Print Lunch Box and Water Bottle Set

ESQUE IT WITH ALE

DENIM IS BACK

Get set for school

DENIM WAS ONE OF THE BIGGEST TRENDS IN THE 90’S AND EARLY 2000’S AND IT’S MAKING ITS WAY BACK IN 2016, STATES ALE AL ZADJALI

ne of the biggest denim moments has to be Justin Timberlake and Britney’s 2001 American Music Awards’ red carpet look and even though it’s been ridiculed ed for the past 15 years, it seems that the he look is coming back in style. Put your right foot forward...

ay Denim began making a buzz in May when AYR’s 100 percent cotton-jeans ns attracted over 600 people queuing up ahead of its launch. Now we get to see designers put the denim in; Gucci ci is focusing on including embroidered ed ir denim jackets and jeans in their la collections. MM6, a branch of Margiela has become mostly denim now. Denim patchwork is evidently also in now - from the Vetements patchwork rk jeans to the Saint Laurent patchwork rk cape. Minion Print Lunch Set

Smart and trendy printed backpacks

The real question is whether denim will still be limited to an article of clothing or patchwork or are we going to revolutionise backwards and bring back the nineties with head to to toe denim? Personally, I will be into it; bu but then again, I have not seen it live and might change my mind then. a What about you? How do you feel d about denim making a comeback?

Ale Al Zadjali is a 22 year-old award-winning fashion designer; he is the brain behind the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing

July 2016

Luxury in 7 Series take a SPIN

The all new BMW 7 Series is a dream car in every sense of the word

ig on space, generous on ease and extra large on luxury, the dream car, BMW 7 Series, is designed to pamper the whims of even the most fastidious passenger. While the driver has no reason to doubt the overdose of ease and comfort in driving, passengers can easily indulge all their senses in its super smooth agility, which adds to all the luxury packed into the deluxe cabin seats.

WATCH FACES COME ALIVE.

46 46

July Ju July ly 2016 20 01 16

To best experience this car, get someone to drive you around, as you relax in the ultra spacious rear seat, with options to stretch your legs and get a much needed back massage. You could even catch up on your sleep with compact buttons on the seat allowing you to push the front seat and make additional space for you to get more legroom for your relaxation.

But if driving eggs you on, the technological gizmos packed into this beauty will keep you hooked to the wheel. Its large body well complements its sharp handling and manoeuvring abilities, surprising you with its refinement and technology and its ease in absorbing all the bumps on the road, without you getting knocked in your seat. Its intelligent all-wheel-drive system also adapts to even the most challenging road surface conditions, always offering outstanding traction. xDrive and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) ensure that the BMW remains perfectly stable; with the xDrive distributing drive power between the axles and ensuring complete directional stability.

take a SPIN The BMW Display Key is a world-first in the luxury segment; it shows a host of information about the vehicle’s status and allows selected functions to be controlled via an integrated touch screen. Besides, the Head-up Display, which is optional, projects relevant driving data, such as speed, navigation and alerts into the driver’s line of sight, to enhance concentration and focus on the road ahead. Equipped with Bowers and Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, the driving pleasure is enhanced by the studio-quality sound throughout the vehicle. The speakers are also illuminated, visually underscoring the impressive audio performance. The versatile assistant systems use sensors integrated into the vehicle to make travel as comfortable as possible

– like the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, which can be activated to support the driver in traffic and heavy congestion and also keep the vehicle in the centre of the lane. The Integral Active Steering enhances the vehicle’s driving dynamics by controlling the steering angle of both the front and rear wheels. With a body shell that seems to stretch like a limo and the flow of lines presenting a harmonious appeal, the sixth generation BMW 7 Series appears as if it is zooming ahead even while on rest. It is packed to the hilt with innovative technologies that are designed to enhance the vehicle’s overall sense of modern luxury, creating an unmatched driving experience. The Remote Control Parking will also allow the driver to

conveniently step out of the car and use the remote control to move it forward and park it in a tight space or garage. Whether it is the innovative Gesture Control or the Touch Command, it is luxury on wheels. While the Gesture Control allows you to accept or reject incoming calls or adjust the volume by simply circulating your index finger, the Touch Command, incorporated in the seven-inch tablet on the rear seat armrest, offers extensive settings and control options. Passengers can adjust seats, air conditioning and ventilation, among others. And when the weather turns cooler or in the evenings now when the sun takes a beating from the approaching night sky, the Sky Lounge will allow you to experience another facet of luxury. The panoramic glass sunroof gives passengers a clear view of the sky and an open sense of space. It also comes with blinds that can create a lounge-like mood and turn every experience into a beautiful dream

July 2016 Photographs: Pushpender Sharma

Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SPECIAL

and all things cool As you get ready to say goodbye to the carefree days of fun summer holidays and get set for a new back-to-school stint, we present some tips, guidelines and easy checklists to make the transition smoother and take the stress away from this inevitable change

WATCH FACES COME ALIVE.

July 2016

school?

Kids’ SPECIAL K

Are you ready for

Are you ready to get back to school? Take this quiz and find out if you really are ready y for the new academic year

First things first… 1. Are you ready to go back to school? A. Always B. Sometimes C. Never

2. Are you nervous about getting back to school? A. No B. Yes, sometimes C. I am always nervous

3. Have you opened your school bag since the last term?

4. Do you have enough time in the mornings to get ready for school?

5. Would you say that you and your teachers get along well? A. Yes B. Not with all teachers C. Not at all

A. I have everything B. Rarely C. I don’t know

7. Your biggest fear about going back to school is…? A. What is so fearful about school? B. That I might get lost C. That I will get suspended or expelled

8. Do you practise sports outside school?

A. Yes – opened and cleaned B. Not yet C. There is no reason to open it

A. Yes, I always get up on time B. Not always C. No – I skip breakfast to save time

6. Do you have all your school supplies?

A. Everyday B. Rarely C. Never

9. Do you have a friend in your class? lass? A. Yes I do B. Not sure C. No, I don’t

10. Which of these choices best describes you? A. I need to go to school and get my degree B. Make a lot of money working from home C. I would love to find a new game to play

Score: If you have a maximum of A: Yes, you are ready and are,in fact, happy. You love school and are waiting for the reopening day. If you have a maximum of B: You are not ready, not yet. The prospect of going back to school seems to tire you out. You wish you could sleep like you did during the holidays. If you have a maximum of C: You seem to be depressed by the thought of school. Homework and study are the biggest banes of your school life.

Julye 2016

Kids’ SPECIAL

Your Back-toSchool Checklist

Like everything else in life, back to school could also prove to be a breeze with little planning and a checklist of things to do before the big day

It is back-to-school time in Oman, with most schools set to reopen in August and September after the long summer hiatus. There is already a shopping frenzy in the market, as malls and shopping destinations join in the back-to-school spree with trendy accessories and enticing goodies to get children in the school mode. But if you have not taken the cue and are wondering where to start, we have compiled a checklist to help you and your ward avoid last minute scramble and get set for the day.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to ease the back-to-school burden: Days before the school is set to open, make an inventory of your child’s clothing and give away any items that are too small.

Make a list of items that he/she would need before you go shopping for new clothes or school accessories. A list of school supplies that you will need to buy or replenish the old supply is also essential. Ensure that you have a proper after-school child care arrangements. A week or so before the actual start of the school, get your child involved in morning, afternoon and evening routines. Ideally, a week before school, begin enforcing bedtimes and practice waking up at the same time each day. Shop for lunchbox groceries and stock the required items, a couple of days ahead to avoid the rush at the supermarket. Make a visit to the school with your child to help remove anxieties and get re-familiarised after the long gap. If using school bus or private transport, it is important to go over the plan with your child before the onset of school. Do not wait until the end of the holidays to talk to your child about his/her school concerns and to allay any fears he/she may have. On the eve of school reopening, keep the uniform, shoes and the bag ready to avoid morning rush. Have your breakfast and lunchbox plan ready. Sleep early.

July JJuly Ju uly 2016 2016 2016

Kids’ SPECIAL

Trendy School Supplies Shopping on your mind? If online shopping doesn’t deter you, check out all the new school supplies that are trending around the world

Polka k aper Noteboo ) P r a Sug l-Bound enue.com v Spira sfiftha

Dot able at sak (Avail

(Av

Pen elty Nov n.com) cor n cotto Cati ailable at

Post-it Pop-up Note Dispenser (Diamond Shape) (Available at amazon.com)

All Seeing Eyes Journal (Available at urbanoutfitters.com)

Black Small Soft Cover Notebook with Gold Initial (Available at poppin.com)

OMG Shape it Pencil Case (Available at cottonon.com)

Black Cat Tape Dispenser (Available at bando.com)

That’s Bananas Ipad Mini 2/3 Case (Available at katespade.com)

Ice Cream Sandwich Journal (Available at modcloth.com)

pad ote .com) N o s hi erc

o T pap 's D t rifle Let ilable a a (Av

Pizza Notes Stick Notes (Available at amazon.com)

JJu Julye uly lye 2016 lye 20 2 01 16 6

51 51

Kids’ SPECIAL

Apps for

School

Getting back to school could be fun with these apps Brainscape If you rely on flashcards to assist in your studying, the Brainscape app would be your best bet to get going. It not just takes the pain out of making flashcards by serving them up on a touchscreen, it also tailors its timing to your learning needs. Though the app is free, you can purchase pre-made sets of flashcards to help learn things like foreign language vocabulary or world geography. The app also works effectively for group study. (Brainscape is available for free on iOS)

DuoLingo This app is just what you would need if you plan on learning a new language. DuoLingo has been described as an addictive way to keep learning as it turns lessons into games that help listening, speaking and translating. Designed to make learning exciting, it comes with hot streaks that require to be tallied up and hearts that can measure how close you are getting to the ‘game over’ stage. (DuoLingo is available for free on Android and iOS)

iHomework Can’t seem to keep track of all the assignments? The iHomework app can help you (high school students as well as college-goers) keep track of all your work. It will sort the work by due date, week, month, or by course; it is very organised and will help you link your reading material to your assignments. (iHomework is available for $1.99 on iOS)

MyHomework The MyHomework Student Planner will help you keep track of schedules and assignments and will provide you with colour-coded due dates. When you sign up for an account, it will also send reminders of upcoming homework. (MyHomework is available for free on Android and iOS)

July 2016

Kids’ SPECIAL

Here Comes the Bus Here Comes The Bus is for parents. It is a free app that many school districts are using to connect students, parents, and administrators with their GPS-equipped transport. Parents can check if the bus is running late or if your child has missed it and also get information on arrival and departure for various stops and schools. ‘Life360’ is also a GPS Tracker that helps parents track their kids’ locations at all times and establish trusted circles to stay in touch.

SimpleMind When ideas need to be filed and organised, your best bet would be SimpleMind, which has some easy to use tools wrapped in a light 1.5MB package. This mind mapping software charts your ideas in a colour-coded web for fast access. Not just limited to mobile gear, you can also edit your topics via cross-platform support for Windows and Mac. (Available on Google Play)

OverDrive Media Console School A to Z The free School A to Z is an app for moms and dads to be better equipped to help children do their homework. Whether it is common math problems or finding the difference between active and passive voice, this app, packed with tutorials and games, can help out with ease.

The OverDrive Media Console app is a virtual library system that allows you to borrow e-books from libraries around the world with your library card. Books range from popular children’s books to adult titles. (OverDrive Media Console is available for free on Android and iOS)

Julye 2016

at HOME Make your child feel special with décor ideas that have the potential to spread an element of newness into his/her old bedroom

ow you go about conceptualising the design of your child’s room is dependent on the age factor. While your teenager might want to fiercely guard his/her privacy and want the design elements to reflect that stand, the tween in the house might simply be happy at the idea of having a room all to him/herself. However, certain design elements that are trending this year could easily help you upgrade an existing room, if your child is outgrowing his/her space, or decorate it in style if the room in question is in your brand new home.

Décor ideas for children’s room Pastels rule Bold themes aside, pastels also have retained their popularity in the colour schemes of bedroom décor. These colours are playful and calming and can easily brighten the room. Opt for shades of grey that can synchronise with yellow, coral or blue to infuse a lively touch to the room.

Bedroom décor trends: Go neutral

If changing the décor of your child’s room with newer trends does not fit your budget, opt for colour schemes that are designed to make the rooms grow with your kids. Neutral schemes, subtle themes and smaller accent elements are easier to adopt and alter over time, without making a dent in your wallet. The classic kids themes and dramatic colours, which were ones the fancy of most designers for kids’ rooms have made way for subtle youthful themes that almost seem timeless.

One for adventure

Stripe it

Subtle may be the new trend, but adventure themes are here to stay – Another design element that could be easily come what may. Adventure themes that reflect jungle, ocean and outer incorporated in your child’s bedroom is the space are in. However, it would be more easy and convenient to use classic stripe pattern. You could choose an vinyl decals on neutral coloured walls, which are easy to remove as your child’s interests’ change.

July 2016

at HOME Decorating tips & tricks

accent wall or even a curtain to get the stripe in; it could even adorn the bedding, ceiling or the furniture in the room. Stripes add a touch of vibrancy to the room and can range from monochromatic hues to bright colours.

Furniture essentials Fitting furniture in children’s bedroom could prove to be a hurdle as they are, generally, small on space, more so in flats and apartments. But if you decide to go with modular furniture that can be taken apart and reconfigured in a variety of ways, trendy furniture

could become a part of your child’s bedroom.

Storage space Not all bedrooms come with built-in cupboards that can accommodate the occupant’s clothes and accessories. Often, toys are pushed under the bed for want of space. But if you decide to pick a wooden bed with built-in drawers, your space problem could be easily resolved. Even builtin shelves and desk units can provide space for holding knickknacks and also do school work.

z If you like the idea of indulging in some DIY activities, involve your child in creating some interesting decorative details that can adorn his/her room. Whether it is framing your child’s favourite pictures or crafting a bunting to adorn the wall, these are easy enhancements to make the room look and feel special. z Create that special place in the room by painting a wall with chalkboard paint. z Look for glow in the dark stickers to create a night skyline in your child’s bedroom ceiling. z Opt for removable wall transfers so that your child can keep changing them without any fuss. z If your child loves to pick things and collect items, create a spot in the room that can help personalise it to suit your child’s tastes. It could turn into a mini art gallery… z Keep things at your child’s height, so that they are better organised and are in easy reach of your child. z Ensure the lighting is just right by including different kinds of lighting elements that help create a sense of security for your child, even if he/she were to wake up in the dark.

July 2016

Relatively SPEAKING

F*R*I*E*N*D*S

1. Friendships are not about how outgoing or extroverted you are; introverts have equal stake at friendships. It is all about making the right connect by showing your interest in the other person.

The difficulty level – in forging new friendships, that is - seems to grow with every passing year, unless you are inclined to cut through the age bar and keep your filters away. With studies revealing that most friendship networks shrink after the age of 25, it is all about learning to push the benchmark for a life replete with beautiful friendships. For friendships are therapeutic in more ways than one. Studies have shown how good friends help relieve stress, provide comfort and joy and even help keep loneliness at bay. If you are willing to ‘fall in friendship’ all over again or give it a fresh new shot, here are a few guidelines to get you going.

4. Keep your focus on the way a friendship feels, not what it looks like.

hat comes easily in childhood and feels natural in teen years, can seem challenging and testing in adulthood, when everything is passed through filters of values, tastes, likes, and even dislikes that are rigidly maintained. The reference is to friendships* that go beyond the confines of office or neighbourhoods.

2. However, if shyness is proving to be a hindrance in establishing new friendships, look for avenues – hobby classes, clubs or even volunteering activities – to develop your socialising skills and find a good friend. 3. Highlight the word ‘genuine’ in your friendship, as it is not something that you flaunt to demonstrate your status symbol or your popularity.

5. Understand your feelings when you are around the person who has friendship potential: Does he/ she make you feel better? Are you yourself around this person? Is your respect reciprocated? What about trust? 6. Shift your focus from yourself to others by showing your interest in the other person’s thoughts and experiences. This requires you to pay close attention to what the other person is saying and doing and interact accordingly. 7. As in any relationship, in friendship too you are required to remember likes and dislikes and interesting snippets from his/her life. 8. While acquaintances are all about sharing pleasantries and common jokes, friendships are more intense and require you to open up to the other person.

Friendship knows no age, no reason; simply follow your heart and ‘fall in friendship’ - like you did when you found love 56 6

Ju July ully y 2016 201 016 6

9. If you feel inclined to friendship with a particular person, start by sharing some small personal aspect and then carry it forward,

Relatively SPEAKING depending on how it is reciprocated. 10. It is very important to be the friend that you would personally like to have. That way you are even in your expectations. Now the don’ts… - Remember, the stress is on improving social life, not your social media status. You could, of course, track your old friends via social media and replenish the ties. - Do not fake interest when there is none, as the other person will be able to read it easily and the friendship will simply not take off. - Friendships are meant to make you feel good - if it doesn’t; break free. - It is not friendship if the person tries to control you, is very critical of you and spreads negative vibes around you. - Friendships don’t require you to compromise your values or be agreeable with everything that the other person says. - Do not be rigid in your takes on friendship; an element of openness will help you make the right connect. - Don’t set rules and expectations that can take away the fun element.

Do not hold grudges over petty issues; learn to forgive and forget, for friendships are all about ease and comfort.

Finally, do you have a good friend? You would know if you have one, but if you are plagued by uncertainties, here’s a quick checklist. A good friend is… z Someone who is genuinely interested in what is going on in your life z Is aware of how you think and feel about things.

Is attentive to what you have to say and listens without judging you or forcing his/her thoughts on you. Is comfortable about sharing things about themselves with you, and you are, equally, comfortable around him/her. You share a bond of trust and loyalty and you both are aware of each other’s secrets.

(* July 30 was International Day of Friendship)

July 2016 Ju July 201 016

57 57

man DATE

Father and Son

Sons today are more likely to be close to their fathers than in the past, say experts

rom the clichéd role of a provider to an involved parent who plays a handson role in every facet of development, fathers’ today have climbed several relationship walls to forge better ties with their sons. Although strains in the relationship are unavoidable during certain phases of life, research has, in fact, found that a new generation of fathers and sons are closer than ever before, with the improved relationship boding well for future generations.

over the years have proven that the father is a role model for his children, specifically sons. This involvement is of critical importance in the son’s adolescent years so as to provide him with better gender role and help him develop self-esteem and confidence.

From being present at the time of the birth to demonstrating greater involvement in child rearing, conscious efforts to build relationships have helped fathers in strengthening the bonds with their sons. According to experts, relationships between fathers and their sons today are more involved, more communicative and more attentive than ever.

1. Acknowledge the fact that your sons are influenced by you. It may not be palpable, but the underlying fact is that your sons learn about being a man by watching you interact with their mother and people around you. 2. Listen…listen with all your senses. Effective communication is all about listening without judging and offering advice. Make a point to simply listen to your sons when you are out alone with them. Make appropriate rejoinders to assure them that you are listening to every word spoken.

Although Freudian psychoanalytical view considers the father to be a fear-instigating factor in the life of the son, theories assayed by experts

58 58

JJu July uly y 2016 201 016

But how does one go about ensuring that the relationship is strong and healthy, especially in the face of the general male tendency to not communicate feelings…

As a Father

3. Do not be afraid to share your thoughts and values about sex and relationships. Although Internet is a big source of information on the topic, your conversations on the topic will help them develop better attitudes about sex and girls, in general. 4. Agree, there are bound to be differences and some situations could turn unpleasant between you and your sons. But the onus is on you to provide positive reinforcement and create a healthy ambience at home by communicating your approval when they do things right.

man DATE 5. Whether you like the same things or not, identify at least one area of common interest to bond with your son/s and fuel the relationship ties. It could be cooking or even camping outdoorsâ&#x20AC;Ś 6. If your boys are in the impressionable tween years, they would welcome some fun and boisterous playtime with you; go on, get into some loud wrestling matches. With older sons, it could be a long drive or trekking. 7. Find a project to put together with your boys. Tinkering on the family car, putting up a garden or rebuilding kitchen, tasks that have long term implications have better scope of strengthening bonds as you share ideas and find solutions.

8. Pay undivided attention to each of your child by making one on one time. Family time is great, but to connect on a more solid ground, make specific time for each of your sons. No two children are same and such individual communication will help you understand your sons better. 9. Demonstrate, in ways that are effective, how much your sons means to you. Amidst the myriad tasks that take over your time, including television, it is important to show them that they are your top priority. Simply saying â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Why do you think I am working so hardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; will not demonstrate your feelings.

10. Communicate to your sons that what they are doing is very important to you. Let them know that you are happy with their hobbies and interests. 11. A hug or two can do wonders to any relationship, including father-son. 12. As a father you may be required to sermonise to make your sons realise their mistakes and break free from bad habits. But remember to preach what you practice and find effective ways to advice and help them find the right path.

July 2016 July 2016 016 01

MRM joins hands with Oman Sail for summer camp

Unlimited Whatsapp with Omantel’s Hayyak Prepaid

Omantel’s latest promotion gives Hayyak prepaid customers one month of unlimited use of the popular messaging app, Whatsapp, without affecting existing data package allowances. The exciting offer enables prepaid customers to enjoy 30 days of unlimited texting and media sharing with family and friends for only RO1. Commenting on the valuepacked offer, Omantel’s Senior Manager of Product Development, Saleh Mahmood Saleh Al Maimani, said, “In today’s digital age, much of our interpersonal connections occur via social media and mobile applications, especially Whatsapp.” The Whatsapp promotion is available for a limited time only, for all new and existing Hayyak customers. Customers can subscribe concurrently to the offer and other Hayyak mobile Internet data packages. The offer can be activated by simply dialing *143*1#.

Millennium Resort Mussanah (MRM), in collaboration with Oman Sail’s Corporate and Personal Development (CPD) department, will be inspiring, challenging, and entertaining children from across the Sultanate with its recently announced ‘Summer Camp 2016’. Starting July 31st, the skill oriented one-day programme will include sailing, kayaking, cooking and team building activities facilitated by qualified instructors, promising fun for all. Children between the ages of 8-17 will have the opportunity to experience a full range of stimulating activities. The entire programme has been designed to motivate youngsters and create the perfect environment to nurture their social and individual growth. With its 54-berth private marina and state-of-the-art facilities, MRM has gained a reputation for its thrilling water activities and scenic location on the Indian Ocean.

Omran on track to deliver 900 new hotel rooms in Muscat

Oman’s continued growth as a tourism destination is set to receive another boost, as the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) is on track to deliver three new hotels, providing more than 900 additional rooms, in 2017/18. The hotels include the five-star W hotel, currently under construction, alongside the expansion of the Royal Opera House in the heart of the capital, as well as the five-star JW Marriott and 4-star Crowne Plaza located at the country’s flagship upcoming master-development - Madinat Al Irfan Urban Centre. These hotels are set to increase Omran’s business and luxury room supply, supporting the Sultanate’s strategic expansion of its leisure tourism and MICE industries, especially focusing on the country’s new iconic business hub, the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). The three new properties are set to open in 2017 and 2018, following the exhibition halls opening of the OCEC later this year.

ESO launches video on Arabian Sea Humpback Whales

As part of its continued efforts to conserve the Sultanate’s population of Arabian Sea Humpback Whales, the Environment Society of Oman created a special short film to raise awareness on the threats facing the critically endangered animals. Filmed and directed by filmmaker Miguel Willis and produced by Justine Kwaan, the high quality production also highlights ESO’s efforts to protect the whales and the many measures launched by public sector companies to minimise the dangers facing this species. The film, which can be found on ESO’s Media Channel on YouTube, was shot over the course of two months along Oman’s southern coast and features the harmonious sounds and images of the Sultanate’s majestic sea creatures. (To watch the full video in English visit the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWofeL2RV-g To watch the full video in Arabic visit the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeelYIXadcg)

July 2016

Alargan Towell supports collective wedding at Barka

Alargan Towell, one of the Sultanate’s leading real estate development companies, supported a collective wedding ceremony in Wilayat of Barka for more than 18 Omani couples, by providing financial support to the organising committee. Sharing the joy of the ceremony, representatives from Alargan were also on hand to present gifts to the bridegrooms. H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Hilal Al Mawali, Chairman of the Shura Council, officiated as the chief guest for the event, which was attended by dignitaries of the Wilayat, invitees, and many relatives and guests. Alargan Towell has a major presence in Barka with the Al Waha residential community, which boasts a total area of nearly 700,000 square meters and is considered to be the newest integrated residential project in the Wilayat.

Beat Diabetes collaborates with home chefs

Beat Diabetes, the community-focused initiative from Landmark Group, has partnered with Dubai’s food enthusiasts Nadia Parekh, founder of home-based catering company Mélange, as well as Nabih and Ghalia, home chefs and founders of Nabz&G – to create a selection of 40 health-friendly recipes for the summer. These recipes are free-to-download and available on www.beatdiabetes.me. Nisha Jagtiani, Director, Landmark Group said: “These healthy recipes are part of our various ongoing efforts to reach out to the community with healthy alternatives.” Through the free-to-download cookbook, the Beat Diabetes initiative aims to provide an appealing selection of dishes for families to cook this summer. The cookbook offers tips to recreate well-loved regional and international recipes, prepared using nutritious ingredients and alternatives.

TeO acquires 100 percent share of Renna Mobile

Integrated Telecommunications Oman SAOC (TeO) has acquired Majan Telecommunications LLC (Renna Mobile), the country’s first Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), in a move that is expected to transform the telecom scenario in the Sultanate. TeO is Oman’s first private Class 1 international gateway operator and offers mobile and fixed services under the operating brand Telecom Oman (TeO). It now broadens its base with Renna’s data and voice services thus lifting its brand to a new high. Commenting about the same, Khalid Zaman, Board Director, TeO, said, “We are really excited about acquiring Renna Mobile, the fastest growing telecom player in the country. While we have a strong international wholesale customer base, this big step opens up the opportunity to serve more than 500,000 active Renna subscribers in the Sultanate. We look forward to opening up employment opportunities for Omanis and contributing to the national growth.” TeO currently operates with its endorsed brands ‘TeOGlobe’ and ‘TeO Business’.

Park Inn by Radisson launch new brand website Park Inn by Radisson has announced the launch of its newly refreshed website. The new parkinn.com is live now, and has been enhanced and improved to make guests’ bookings and enquiries easier, brighter and more enjoyable. The refreshed site is fully responsive, which means it can flex to suit different mediums; it contains a new, easy-to-use booking bar. It is wider, so images fill the full width of the site and it follows a new scrolling design, so it helps to carry users on a journey. It has also had all Flash elements removed so that it is supported by all Internet browsers, and is now integrated with social media, such as instagram and tripadvisor, to make it easier to share. It is also now linked to the Park Inn blog. Check out the new Park Inn Hotels in Oman websites www.parkinn. com/hotel-muscat and www.parkinn.com/hotel-duqm

July 2016

61 6

City Centre Muscat introduces Park Assist

Majid Al Futtaim’s City Centre Muscat is currently operating a new Park Assist guidance system making it easier for customers to find parking spaces and help them locate their vehicle upon exiting the mall. The new LED lighting system enables arriving guests to identify available parking spaces. Located on the ceiling of the carpark lanes, a green light indicates an available parking space; a blue light indicates a space for the disabled only and a red light means the space is occupied. Additionally, the new car park guidance system kiosks, located at most of the mall entrances, will enable shoppers to find their vehicles easily after shopping, dining, or a cinema visit. Visitors can enter their car’s plate number on the touchscreen kiosks; click ‘Find’ to identify where their vehicle is. The new system will also deliver significant environmental benefits, lowering vehicles carbon emissions and fuel economy improvements.

Berger Paints puts the focus on energy efficient practices

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, Berger Paints has been taking steps to involve its employees to think of ways to conserve resources. Recently, it organised a two-day Energy Conservation event at its mega-sized Sohar facility that covers an area of around 50,000sqmts. The objective was to increase awareness, motivate the staff to conserve energy and increase their involvement in Berger Paint’s ‘E-save’ initiative through interaction and group activities. During the interactive session, many employees were surprised at what they could do on a day-today basis that could influence their energy costs to a large extent. One such example is that using a laptop rather than a PC can save up to 50 percent of energy. To accommodate the employees’ ideas, a suggestion box was made from a reused jet pump. Four of the company’s employees were picked up for best e-save suggestions to improve performance at the factory.

Oman UAE Exchange relocates to new a premise

Oman UAE Exchange has announced the relocation of one of its branches. The new branch is strategically located at Sara Al Jadeed, opposite Al Buraimi Hotel in Buraimi. The move is part of the brand’s expansion strategy and will provide customers easy access to their financial needs. Customers can walk-in and choose from a repertoire of services like instant bank transfers, instant money transfers/overseas cash payouts and foreign currency exchange. With five counters in the branch, they will receive prompt and personalised service with minimal time and least hassles. Speaking on the occasion, Boban MP, CEO, Oman UAE Exchange said, “The branch relocation is in line with our ongoing branch expansion drive and reaffirms our commitment to provide greater convenience, customised services and value additions to the customers.”

July 2016

The Ferrari GTC4Lusso makes a powerful luxury statement

The Ferrari GTC4Lusso was revealed in the Sultanate for the very first time, during a private preview at Alfardan Motors Showroom, recently. The GTC4Lusso is a new four-seater model that integrates rear-wheel steering with four-wheel drive for the first time, hailing another major advance for the versatile sporty Grand Tourer concept and making it perfectly adaptable for Oman’s city and mountain terrain. The four-seater configuration holds a very special place in Maranello tradition, making exhilarating Prancing Horse sports car performance and elegance available to four rather than just two occupants. The GTC4Lusso is a powerful combination of luxury style and performance. Seamless integration of its complex vehicle dynamics control systems means the powerful GTC4Lusso performs brilliantly in all driving situations, but really comes into its own on challenging low-grip surfaces, such as desert terrain, delivering a consistent sense of stability and comfort.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT R

From the world’s most demanding racetrack directly onto the road: Never before has Mercedes AMG packed so much motorsport technology into a production vehicle than into the new AMG GT R. The front-mid-engine concept with transaxle, the twin-turbo V-8 engine rated at 430 kW/585hp, the extensively modified suspension, the new aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight construction lay the foundations for an especially dynamic driving experience. Even from afar, the exclusive ‘AMG green hell magno’ special paintwork leaves no doubt as to the sports car’s origin, having spent most of its development time in the ‘Green Hell’ of the Nurburgring racetrack. The new AMG GT R combines the driving dynamics of AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT. The AMG design idiom of ‘Dynamic Presence’ forms the basis for the far more expressive overall appearance and the very distinct look.

Geely Auto becomes Official Vehicle Partner of G20 Summit Geely Auto has become an official vehicle partner of the G20 Summit with the Chinese automaker providing the G20 Organizing Committee with 327 vehicles, which will be used by key departments such as police, fire service and airport security throughout the G20 period. During the summit, Geely Auto will supply the organisers with Geely’s latest 3.0 Generation vehicles that include Emgrand GT, Emgrand X7 Sport, Emgrand GS, NL-4 and Emgrand EV which will be used in reception, security and police roles over the course of the summit. A senior spokesperson of Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the sole distributor of Geely range of vehicles in the Sultanate of Oman, commented: “Being chosen as the official vehicle partner of such high-level summits only reiterates the fact that the brand Geely has truly come of age.”

July 2016

Chill Out

Movies Mo

MOVIE REVIEW

Director David Ayer

ND I N G

CHART TOPPERS

Cast

1. New Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Stop The Feeling! - Justin Timberlake 2. One Dance Drake - Wizkid & Kyla 3. Panda - Desiigner 4. 7 Years - Lukas Graham 5. I Took A Pill In Ibiza - Mike Posner 6. This Is What You Came For - Calvin Harris & Rihanna 7. Formation - Beyonce Knowles 8. Cake By The Ocean - DNCE 9. Work - Rihanna & Drake 10. Work From Home - Fifth Harmony & Ty Dolla $ign

July 2016

Will Smith Margot Robbie Jared Leto Jai Courtney Cara Delevigne Viola Davis

Suicide Squad Director David Ayer along with the DC comics franchise, are ready to thrill the audience with the most awaited American superhero film of the year Suicide Squad takes place in a post-Superman world, following the events of Dawn of Justice. As the government grapples with how to respond the next time an alien visits Earth with less noble intentions than the Man of Steel, Amanda Waller (Davis), a secret U.S government agent, hires a dangerous team of confined super-villains, set out to save the world from a powerful, unknown force in exchange for clemency in their prison sentences. However, when they find out they were in fact chosen for their patent culpability, what menace will they cause to the citizens of the world? The one condition for their restricted freedom - Obey orders or die! That is a rule strictly enforced by squad leader Rick Flag (Joel Kinnaman), his samurai Katana (Karen Fukuhara), and the explosive devices inserted into their necks courtesy of Wayne Enterprises.;

Book

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget UPCOMING RELEASES

Pete’s Dragon

Bryce Dallas Howard, Oakes Fegley, Wes Bentley, Oona Laurence, Robert Redford, Karl Urban A woodcarver, Mr. Meacham (Redford), lives with his daughter Grace (Dallas Howard), in the Pacific Northwest U.S. He is famous amongst children for his enchanting stories of a dragon living deep in the woods. Grace, a forest ranger, comes across an orphaned boy named Pete (Fegley), who tells her tales of his friendly dragon (Elliott) living with him in the woods. Grace sets out on a mission to discover the truth, along with a local mill owner Jack (Bentley), and his daughter Natalie (Laurence). However, the story takes an unexpected turn when Jack’s brother Gavin (Urban), sets out on a hunting expedition.

BOOK REVIEW

Nine Lives

Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Garner, Malina Weissman, Christopher Walken, Robbie Amell A successful businessman, Tom Brand (Spacey), is separated from his wife Lara (Garner) and daughter Rebecca (Weissman) due to his busy lifestyle. As Rebecca is a fond lover of cats, Brand sets out to get one for her 11th birthday. He is led to a peculiar pet shop, packed with unusual and unique cats. After purchasing a tomcat named Mr. Fuzzypants, Tom starts driving home; however a major mishap results in him being captured inside the cat’s body. Felix Grant, the shop owner informs Tom that if he fails to reunite with his family within a week, he will forever remain Mr. Fuzzypants.

Mechanic: Resurrection

Jason Statham, Jessica Alba, Tommy Lee Jones, Michelle Yeoh, Rhatha Phongam, Sam Hazeldine Resurrection is second in the Mechanic series, following its 2011 action thriller prequel, with debutant director Dennis Gansel. Arthur Bishop (Statham) is amongst the most feared hitmen in the world but decides to end his affiliation with violence and the criminal world following the death of his former enemy Steve McKenna, from whom Bishop had scarcely escaped an attempted assassination. But when his most intimidating rival kidnaps his love Gina (Alba), Arthur is incited to seek revenge and carry out three grueling killings, and make them look just like mere accidents.

Kindness for Weakness Author: Shawn Goodman This book highlights the journey of a valiant and spirited young boy, in a world where kindness means nothing and the answer to every problem is just violence. The boy, only 15 years old, is all alone in the world, burdened with the responsibility of standing up on his own feet and fighting his way through life to overcome his strenuous journey to manhood.

Being Henry David The Tipping Point Author: Malcolm Gladwell ‘The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference’, is the debut novel of internationally renowned and bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell, in which he discusses how change is inevitable and explains the behavioural changes in societal relationships that characterise everyday life. Using case studies, everyday examples and his ‘three rules of epidemics’, Gladwell has made the novel all the more relatable to the common man.

Author: Cal Armistead A seventeen-year-old adolescent, with no possessions except a novel by Henry David, discovers himself stranded at a station in New York, with no memory of who he is or how he happens to be there. After living life aimlessly for a while, he realises that in order to survive, he must let go of his troublesome past and come to terms with reality, and begin afresh.

July 2016

Chill Out

Movies Mo

WEB WORLD

It’s ‘timeforkids’ A lesson in learning: what you learn from pleasure you never forget

hildren are becoming smarter from one generation to the next, thanks to modernisation and the vast availability of resources for their learning and enrichment. Learning constantly is the only way their minds can remain sharp and young, and, as parents, the onus is on you to find the most interesting ways to keep them busy. Log in to the http://www.timeforkids.com/ website and find multiple ways to engage them. Although this website is designed for grade schoolers, it is more for tweens and older. A wonderful place for kids to hang out online, TFK (timeforkids) covers everything from sports, entertainment and customised articles to a section solely focusing on school, consisting of online tools that help the children learn subjects and home-writing skills, in a very approachable manner.

So parents, stay tension free!

This website could prove to be the best place for your kids to learn about everything from the latest political crisis to a recent Hollywood blockbuster. To get started with, check out some of the tools by experimenting yourself:

Riddle Time

1 2 3 4 5 66

What did the farmer call the cow that would not give him any milk? What do you get when you cross a roll of wool and a kangaroo? How many skunks does it take to make a big stink? Where do sheep get their hair cut? What is a horse’s favorite sport?

July 2016

The Classroom App

This is an award-winning digital resource that brings current events into the classroom. The app is available on all electronic devices; so download and begin your free trial today! (http://app. timeforkids.com/#learnmore)

Homework Helper

Don’t do your homework alone! TFK’s homework helper is packed with tips and tools to help you succeed. (http://www. timeforkids.com/homework-helper) Kid Reporters Find it too difficult to keep track of daily news on TV? Now hear it from someone your own age, and be updated. (http:// www.timeforkids.com/kid-reporters)

Riddle Time Answers (June 2016)

What is the easiest way to count a herd of cattle? Answer: With a cowculator.

What do you call a deer that costs a dollar? Answer: A buck.

What’s a frog’s favorite drink? Answer: Croak-a-cola.

What’s an alligator’s favorite drink? Answer: Gator-Ade.!

What is a lion’s favorite state? Answer: Maine

Book

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget GADGET NOTES Action Camera 922000

If you love participating in outdoor activities and are looking at another way of enhancing your experience, this action camera is the perfect choice. The portable and lightweight device, can be positioned anywhere and can capture all adventuring moments in hi-definition quality. A video resolution of 720 x 480 @ 30fps, supports unlimited streaming and records in and AVI format. Along with a sound recording functionality and a built-in rechargeable battery, the camera has a vast 32 GB storage, for 1000+ photos and videos that are easily transferable to other devices through a USB cable. It can be easily attached to harnesses, helmets, handle bars or even strapped around your own head.

‘Nima’ by 6SensorLabs Varia Vision

Apt for regular cyclists, Garmin’s first heads up display (HUP), Varia Vision is a lightweight device that easily attaches to either side of sunglasses with a quick release style mount, helping enhance road awareness by displaying information directly in your line of sight. Weighing just about 28 grams, the HUP will not be a problem to wear; its weather resistant design paired with an 8-hour battery life, will sustain itself even in the most grating and unfavorable conditions. Its features include clude auto scroll, information like heart rate, te, speed, power, detailed navigation routes, hazards zards of rear ar vehicles approaching, performance and d call/text prompt.

Bites

teacher asked her students to use the word ‘beans’ in a sentence. ‘My father grows beans,’ said one girl. ‘My mother cooks beans,’ said a boy. A third student spoke up: ‘We are all human beans.’

Everybody likes making informed, healthy decisions in terms of the food they eat, but are often unaware of what it actually contains. 6SensorLab’s ‘Nima’ is a spectacular sensory gadget meant to detect the amount of gluten present in any edible product, in less than 2 minutes. The discreet and portable device is also capable of testing meals for any other unwanted ingredients that you might unknowingly consume. The device comes along with a set of one-time-use 3capsules, designed with proven chemistry, technology and sensors. Measuring 3.5 inches in length and 3.1 in height, the compact gadget can easily be carried around and also synced to a mobile phone, lasting long enough for 20 tests.

‘Hover Camera’ by

The US-Chinese company Zero-Zero Robotics has gone a step ahead in the world of selfphotography, with their newest proposition of a flying drone, intended to give an entirely different view of you and your life. With the wing propellers safely enclosed in a strong carbon fiber frame, the ‘personal’ drone will automatically follow you around once set by a compatible smartphone app, capturing and filming moments through its 13 mega pixel camera and electronic image stabilisation (EIS).

student at a management school came up to a pretty girl and hugged her without any warning. The surprised girl said, ‘What was that?’ The guy smiled at her and replied, ‘Direct marketing!’ The girl slapped him soundly. ‘What was that’ said the boy, holding his cheek.

‘Customer feedback,’ came the pat reply.

man, in a rush, called out to the farmer near a field and said, ‘Sorry sir, would you mind if I crossed your field instead of going around it? You see I have to catch the 4:23 train.’ The farmer looked at him and said, ‘Sure, go right ahead. And if my bull sees you, you’ll even catch the 4:11 one.’

July 2016

Chill Out August 2016

Movies Mo

FUTURESCOPE

Leo

(July 23 – Aug 22) Your personal power and independence is at its maximum this month. It will provide you with a chance to have things your way and create the conditions of your own happiness. You are at your maximum personal creativity and now is the time to make the essential changes. Things might be difficult later, but use your power wisely. Love is still happy this month. For singles, there is a momentous meeting on the 15th or 16th. Nonetheless, this month is favourable even for those in a relationship. You are in a yearly financial peak and for many of you this will be a lifetime peak. You will experience the Midas touch this month.

Aries

It is now time to enjoy life; time to have fun, time to take advantage of the money that you have and spend it on leisure activities. It is now time to be more creative too. You have superior abilities to handle children and children figure in your life these days as well. This is a great month to get more in touch with your inner child.

Taurus

This is a time for making psychological-type breakthroughs. Your understanding of your moods and feelings will be heightened. Those of you involved in psychological therapies may make satisfactory progress. It is natural to feel nostalgic, to remember the ‘good old’ or ‘bad old’ days. Happy financial opportunities will come by.

Gemini

It is the ‘midnight hour’ of your year. Visualise, dream and affirm what you want and allow the power of the universe to make these things go on in its own way. This is a month for coming to

Cameron Diaz

terms with the past, for resolving old traumas and experiences. Many might find it beneficial to start therapy.

Cancer

On a financial level, sales, marketing, advertising and public relations appear to be very important. Neighbours and siblings seem helpful. There are favourable financial opportunities in your neighbourhood. This is a big time for job seekers. Career is boosted by superior work ethics. Health is adequate this month, but there is a need for more physical exercise.

Virgo

The month ahead is pleasant and successful. It is a period for being independent, for standing on your own feet and for having your way in life. Ride the necessary changes that offer you happiness. This may stress a current relationship, but this stress is also temporary. You and the beloved are employed harder to bridge your differences.

Libra

You are probably seeing people outside your normal social sphere this month, but look closer home for effective results. Remember, ease of communication and mental compatibility are important turn-ons in love. Love and social opportunities happen in educational-type settings – at a lecture, a school function, the library or the bookstore.

Scorpio

Health continues to be delicate, urging you to rest and relax more to maintain high energy levels. One approach to achieve this is to keep the focus on the essentials in your life and to let go of the trivia. The month ahead will be prosperous, promising a mini yearly financial peak.

(August 30, 1972) American actress, producer and former fashion model Cameron Diaz debuted her acting career in the 1994 comedy The Mask. She received Golden Globe Award nominations for her roles in ‘There’s Something About Mary’, ‘Being John Malkovich’, ‘Vanilla Sky’ and ‘Gangs of New York’; she has played leading roles in ‘Charlie’s Angels’, ‘Bad Teacher’ and ‘The Other Woman’. She married Good Charlotte’s Benji Madden in January 2015.

July 2016

Sagittarius

Yes, it is critical to succeed but not at the expense of your health. You can be given both if you keep your focus on the essentials and not play ball with trivia. You can also enhance health by giving attention to eating right. The career is reinforced by your willingness to travel, and also by your willingness to mentor others.

Capricorn

Earnings are still good this month, but there are delays and glitches involved. Handle all the minute details of finance with care. See where improvements can be made. You are in a great period for paying down debt. If you make a viable business idea, this is a good time to approach outside investors for backing.

Aquarius

Things will ease up a bit this month, but the focus will remain on career and outer goals. Personal earnings are stressful – earnings do happen but more slowly. The good news is that your spouse, partner or current love is prospering. He/she is in a yearly financial peak and is picking up the slack. As you support others and assist them to attain their financial goals, your personal supply will happen naturally.

Pisces

Your love and social life has been important all year and is all the more acute in the month ahead. Wedding bells or an engagement wouldn’t be a surprise. Your challenge in love, as it has been all year round, is to balance your interests with the interests of the beloved. Career looks successful and active this month.

Book

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget

WEIRD NEWS Footage of female ‘ghostly’ figure

An uncanny CCTV footage clip of a taxi station in Japan, has caught an unbelievable supernatural occurrence, and continues to shake viewers since its upload on YouTube this month. The video reveals a mysterious black-haired woman who follows a passenger till his taxi, and disappears once the door slams shut. Although many have argued that this shape-shifting paranormal entity is just another camera trick, several taxi drivers in Japan have reported taking fares from passengers who were seemingly ‘genuine’ but later disappeared during the ride.

Man fights to keep his pizzaeating pet alligator

David Van Buren, a resident of Florida, was requested by wildlife officials to move his 13ft pet alligator to monitored location, as it was too big to roam about in his garden. However Buren, a retired fire fighter, said he would do whatever it takes to keep ‘Gwendolyn’ under his custody, since it isn’t the first time he has faced a battle with the pet. The alligator, whose favorite treats include cookies and pizza, has been with Buren for the past 47 years, and even went with him to college!

Texas Woman develops British accent after surgery

A mother of three from Rosenberg, Lisa Alamia, recently underwent a jaw surgery to correct an overbite, but ended up developing a completely different accent after being diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder – foreign accent syndrome. Doctors have been unable to identify what has caused the phenomena, as less than 100 people have developed the condition over the last century.

Hot air balloonist from Russia breaks record

Did you know…? Back-to-school fun facts to add an element of excitement in the new academic year z In Chile, summer vacation lasts from mid-December to early March. That means Chilean children are off for about 12 weeks; it is 12 to 15 weeks in Ethiopia, depending on the school. Germany has a very short sixweek vacation. z The quintessential crayon ranks #18 on the list of most recognisable scents. In the Colour Census of 2000, blue was voted the favourite crayon colour. z By the time a child turns 10, he/she would have worn down approximately 730 crayons and would have spent about 28 minutes per day colouring (on average). z Before school calendars, it was geography that determined when students attended classes. In small, rural areas, school went from December to March and May to August so that kids could help plant in the spring and harvest in the fall. In the urban centres, schools feared spread of disease in hot, crowded schoolrooms and gave their children summers off. z The biggest school in the world (in terms of pupils) is the City Montessori School in Lucknow, India; the school has more than 32,000 students. z Didaskaleinophobia, the fear of going to school, is said to affect 2.4 percent of schoolaged children on an international level. z Pencils are not only good in the classroom, but they can be used in zero gravity, upside down and even under water. z The tradition of giving apples to teachers dates back to the 16th century in Denmark, where parents would pay their educators with food (namely, apples since they were expensive and hard to harvest), since teachers couldn’t live off their small salaries.

Fyodor Konyukhov, a 64-year-old Russian, travelled around the world in a hot air balloon in just 11 days, breaking the previous 2002 world record of 13 days. He landed in Bonnie Rock, Australia on July 24th, greeted by friends and family members. As part of the 20,500-mile journey, he travelled across the Pacific and Southern Oceans, spanning South America, The Cape of Good Hope, borders of Antarctica and New Zealand; aboard the 184foot helium filled balloon.

July 2016