FACES Issue No. 134

Issue 134, April 2018

Spring Up: Functional Tips for Homes

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In Fashion : Bthaina’s ‘Persian Spell’

Issue 134, April 2018

Family Attitude Class Entertainment Success

Editor’s Note

M

ake room, literally, as we take you on a grand home design and décor journey to add a spring to your living space. Packed in this HOME issue are myriad ways to design and decorate your home, through DIY projects and professional expertise. We have opened up avenues to renovate and redecorate your living spaces without making a dent on your budget.

This vibrant HOME issue delivers a wide range of decor ideas and guidelines from interior decorators in Oman and the region. Read on and find out how you could enhance your living space with décor elements that are easy to source and convenient to put together. Our special pages are designed to inspire you to give your home a much needed décor treatment.

The highlight of this issue is Nizwa-based high-end artist Sharmaine Pretorious, whose art captures her interests, intuitions and capabilities as a single ‘snapshot’. Narjes Mohammed Mirza’s Pairidaeza farm in Barka is the focus of our Spotlight, alongside Denyse Woods ‘Of Sea and Sand’, which is set between Oman and Ireland and follows Gabriel’s visit to Oman and the region. Check out what is trending in the world of local fashion in our ‘In Fashion’ pages, which feature Bthaina’s ‘Persian Spell’. Connoisseurs of gold jewellery can enjoy a feast of gold collection put together for Akshaya Tritiya, Indian festival, which will be celebrated on April 18.

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Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali

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FACES Features 10 Cover Story

Whether the home defines its dwellers or the residents characterise the home, there is a visible interaction between the two that comes out in harmonious and balanced design and décor elements

16 In Conversation

Antique furniture specialist Rosemary Whelan shares her passion for 19th century European antique items that have been a witness to the passage of time

18 In The Spotlight • •

‘Pairidaeza’, an organic farm run by Narjes Mohammed Mirza in Barka, is creating a green revolution in the country ‘Of Sea and Sand’, Denyse Woods’ 6th novel, celebrates the beauty of Oman, Iraq, and Ireland and explores the mysterious folklore of these countries

20 Centre Stage

Sharmaine Theresa Pretorius, who calls herself an ‘accidental artist’, talks about her interests, intuitions and capabilities

22 Home Special

Make your home look and feel special with tips and guidelines from experts in the field of interior design and decor

FACES Foodie 26 Feast On

Check out the burgers and ribs that have made Grill Shack in Azaiba a popular foodie destination

28 Let’s Cook

Cook up a batch of pea delights with recipes that will taste as amazing as they look – green and yum

FACES Style 30 In The Luxe

Chairs may be basic necessities of our everyday lives, but the expensive, exclusive ones are masterpieces crafted to take pampering to another level

32 Look Good

As the summer sun gets into its seasonal act, Vindhya Krishna shows five ways to ensure your foundation stays on longer

34 In Fashion

Inspired by Persian rugs and their mystical beauty, Bthaina’s latest collection, entitled Persian Spell, celebrates the elaborate patterns and colours of traditional carpets

FACES Travel

40 Explore Oman

Soak in the Islamic architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and marvel its intricately designed interiors

42 Just Travel

Homestays are ideal alternatives for leisure travellers seeking experiences that are unique to the chosen destination

FACES Health 44 Diet & Fitness

Weight loss on your mind…? Try the ‘Keto Diet,’ suggests Vindhya Krishna, as she highlights the do’s and don’ts of the diet, alongside adequate fitness regimen

46 Healthy Tiding

Soak in the Islamic architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and marvel its intricately designed interiors

FACES Elements 48 Man Date

With home spaces shrinking and gardens becoming non-existent, Vindhya Krishna shows how you could create your own little terrarium and brighten up the living room

50 At Home

‘Treat’ your window right and transform your home from drab to fab

52 Relatively Speaking Read books to your children and experience the joys of family bonding over childhood stories that have a bigger say in developing their cognitive abilities

FACES Digest 08 Star Light

He looks nothing like Winston Churchill in real life, but that proved to be no hindrance for Gary Oldman to bag this year’s coveted Best Actor Oscar for his role as UK’s former Prime Minister in the ‘Darkest Hour’

58 Movies & Books

Reviews of upcoming movies and books

60 Gadget Notes

Roundup of new gadgets in the market

Oman Air introduces new in-flight offerings to its guests

Oman Air guests have a treat in store. As a part of its efforts to enhance the travel experience of guests, Oman Air has introduced a range of redesigned amenity kits, packed with essential travel products. The redesigned kits, offered on all long-haul day and night flights, were created by internationally renowned brand Amouage. Both First and Business class bags come with an Amouage branded bag in rich warm tones and modern shapes, with embossed accents and trims. First class male and female guests will be complemented with exclusive ‘his’ and ‘her’ set, while Business Class guests will receive unisex bags designed especially for Oman Air premium guests. All guests will receive sets of luxurious Amouage essentials, in a range of generous sizes, such as hand and body moisturiser, face cream and lip balm.

Kempinski Hotel Muscat Opened Designed with a variety of local Omani influences, the modern urban resort Kempinski Hotel Muscat has opened its doors to guests. Encompassing over 6kms of stunning coastline within Al Mouj community, this luxury destination in the capital blends traditional Omani hospitality with the timeless European elegance of Kempinski. With 310 rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meeting facilities, 10 world-class restaurants, a fully equipped health club and an authentic spa experience, Kempinski Hotel Muscat is a gateway to an authentic Omani adventure. Designed by Woods Bagot, Kempinski Hotel Muscat is a modern interpretation of Muscat and the Sultanate of Oman, with standout elements that are truly Omani in nature. The hotel’s buildings, with a façade inspired by the landscape of Old Muscat, are a matrix of building structures, outlining what was once a commercial centre.

‘Day in Paradise’ at ShangriLa Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa has extended its popular ‘Day in Paradise’ with two new options, including exhilarating water sport activities and pampering spa time. Open to external guests and Muscat residents, the additional ‘Day in Paradise’ experiences allow non-hotel guests exclusive access to the resort’s 600-metre private beach, multiple swimming pools, Lazy River, water sports and recreation facilities, as well as the opportunity to avail pampering sessions at CHI, The Spa. External guests can spend a day exploring the beach and beyond with a host of exciting activities, including action-packed water sports.

Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ launches in Oman Samsung Gulf Electronics Company launched the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ in Oman recently. Described as the Smartphones that reimagine the way people communicate, share and experience the world, Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ are made for an age in which consumers increasingly communicate and express themselves more with images, videos and emojis. Redesigned with a new Dual Aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalized AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and S9+ ensure users do not miss a moment and make their everyday epic.

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FACES April 2018

SalamAir makes travelling for Umra more convenient

SalamAir has announced the introduction of the first ever direct flights from Muscat to Ta’if. The new seasonal flights from Muscat will commence on May 15th to facilitate Umrah during the Holy Month of Ramadan, with ticket fares starting from RO 99 (Return). Guests can now book directly on www.SalamAir.com. SalamAir has carefully chosen the timings of its flights to and from Ta’if to accommodate its fasting guests during the Holy Month. Flying thrice weekly, its outbound trips from Muscat International Airport will depart at 11pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving in Ta’if at 1:20am. Return flights from Ta’if are scheduled for Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, departing at 2:10am and arriving in Muscat at 6:35am.

Al Mouj Muscat launches the first Little Free Libraries in Oman

For story lovers and potential book worms, Al Mouj Muscat has launched the first Little Free Libraries in Oman within its community. This ‘take a book, return a book’ free book exchange concept is designed to inspire a love of reading and has already proved a huge success. With two now open at Beach Park and Marsa Promenade, two more are expected to open at The Walk and Reehan Residences. As the first Little Free Library initiative to be introduced in Oman, it aims to encourage reading amongst people of all ages and backgrounds as well as connect people in their neighbourhoods. A multitude of books from different genres, and numerous languages can be found in these colourful Little Free Library kiosks (birdhouse and peace pole design), which are lit up at night by solar lights.

Long-haul sleep offering from British Airways

British Airways’ ‘Club World’ product will see the roll-out of its enhanced sleep proposition on its Muscat to London service.

Travellers flying Club World from here can now enjoy an even better night’s sleep in the sky as the airline’s luxurious new bedding and amenity kits from The White Company is now available on board. The airline’s new sleep products include a luxuriously soft large pillow and white cotton pillowcase to enhance customers’ comfort and aide sleep.

Customers will also receive a super-soft woven blanket with satin trim, a bespoke luxury duvet, and a padded mattress cover to give them an extra layer of comfort. Later this year, British Airways will also roll-out its new restaurant style dinning service in Club World on its Muscat service.

April 2018 FACES

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ST

Gary Oldman’s finest hour He looks nothing like Winston Churchill in real life, but that proved to be no hindrance for Gary Oldman to bag this year’s coveted Best Actor Oscar for his role as UK’s former Prime Minister, in the ‘Darkest Hour’

A

R

light

s Kazuhiro Tsuji, special make-up effects and visual artist, transformed Gary Oldman in the likeness of wartime Winston Churchill, the actor became the character, adopting and adapting his moves to perfect his role and clinch the Oscar for one of his finest performances. It was, perhaps, the time, effort and ingenuity involved in crafting the transformation that infused Oldman with traits that marked Churchill’s life and career. But then, being a dedicated thinking actor, Oldman instinctively got under the skin of his role, thanks to the expertise of makeup artists who knew just how to perfect the look.

What makes the transformation so very dramatic is the obvious unlikeness between the former Prime Minister and the 59-year old Oldman. The stark difference lies in the shape of their faces – while Oldman’s is oval, Churchill’s was rounder. That meant creating an optical illusion by bringing the neck forward and the chin up, using prosthetics. The actor had to spend nearly 4 hours every day to transform and get ready for a gruelling 12-hour shoot. He had to wear a fat suit, which was designed with intricate lacing so as to gather the layers of blubber together Speaking about the daily process, he had told an entertainment magazine: ‘On a normal day, my pick up would be 1.45am. Get to the set, they would shave my head, cover my neck in glue and then start the makeup. We would go through that process for 3 hours and 15 minutes, then I would go and get dressed - another 45 minutes. Then set, rehearsal, shoot a 10-12 hour day, then 45 minutes to an hour to remove the make-up. And eventually, 18 hours later, get to bed.’

While critics have hailed it as one of the best performances of Gary Oldman’s career, awarding bodies have gone all out to recognise it with a bouquet of awards. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor, the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role. The film itself earned six nominations at the Academy Awards and 9 nominations at the 71st British Academy Film Awards.

Gary Oldman is a versatile theatre, film and television personality, having earned distinction for his so-called ‘big’ acting style. He began his acting career in 1979 with a play, and soon earned his first film role in 1983 with ‘Meantime’. His theatre career flourished with memorable performances in ‘The Massacre at Paris’, ‘Entertaining Mr. Sloane’, ‘Saved’, ‘The Country Wife’ and ‘Hamlet’ and he has played a variety of roles in films, but he is known for his roles as Sirius Black in the ‘Harry Potter’ series, James Gordon in ‘The Dark Knight Trilogy’, ‘Lord Shen in Kung Fu Panda 2’, George Smiley in ‘Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy’ and human leader Dreyfus in ‘Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’. As he notes,“I enjoy playing characters where the silence is loud.”

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FACES April 2018

GET HOME SAFE

HANDS ON THE WHEEL EYES ON THE ROAD Safe MIND ON DRIVING

COVER STORY

House Rules‌

Whether the home defines its dwellers or the residents characterise the home, there is a visible interaction between the two that comes out in harmonious and balanced design and dĂŠcor elements

Room for Improvement

10 FACES April 2018

COVER STORY

As cities grow bigger and living spaces become smaller, people are either relying on interior decorators to make that space work or indulging in DIY to add touches of elegance to their homes

According to a recent research from leading home and lifestyle channel HGTV*, 55percent of Oman citizens and residents plan on carrying out home improvements during the course of this year. There is an apparent need to create a perfect home; one that meets the needs of its residents and is tuned to their tastes.

homeowners or tenants. Conducted in a region that is often considered a transient market, the survey found that nearly half (48 percent) of respondents planned on carrying out home improvements over the next 12 months to make their living arrangements more comfortable and reflect their new lives in the GCC.

The research, released last November, shows the changing face of DIY and home improvement, as more people across the GCC are investing in their homes, regardless of whether they are

A further 66 percent of respondents are interested in finding new ways to improve their home in the next year, including 55 percent eager to invest in rental properties to re-decorate the

interiors of their homes, as well as 45 percent of homeowners planning to renovate kitchens to make them more functional.

The research, covering both homeowners and tenants, also found that more than a third (37 percent) of residents in these countries noticed a considerable increase in the amount of DIY and home improvement choices in the market, including the launch of HGTV in MENA back in November 2016. However, despite the easy to follow educational tutorials it provides, nearly a quarter (22percent) of GCC residents still feel like they do not know enough about DIY and home improvements to carry it out themselves.

A further 74percent of homeowners noted they would rather a professional carry out their own home improvements, despite their interest in trying their hand at the DIY task.

* HGTV is a home and lifestyle channel that broadcasts entertaining DIY programs, the latest in design trends and shares expert home improvement advice, exclusively on channel 357

The targeted piece of research surveyed 2,700 respondents that represent the cross section of expats, NRIs and GCC Nationals living in the GCC markets: UAE, KSA, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar.

April 2018 FACES

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COVER STORY

Rooms with Views Make room for fresh, natural materials in your home design elements to infuse an organic and serene ambience to the space, suggests Zahir Abdul Latheef, Lead Interior Designer of Design District Muscat* as he talks about the trends, challenges and the ways and means to maximise living spaces, in the following interview.

What is trending in the world of architecture and interior design?

Minimalistic designs and Scandinavian furnishing has a great demand around the world. We also see a huge influx of software advancement in design development and presentation. There is a real trend in the US for tiny homes and in Europe, for smart homes and home automation. 3D Printing is also underway and miniature architectural modelling has already begun reaping benefits of it. We expect more applications to be introduced very soon.

We are a big fan of Jan Gehl. He is a Danish architect and urban design consultant based in Copenhagen whose career has focused on improving the quality of urban life by reorienting city design towards the pedestrian and cyclist. He is a founding partner of Gehl Architects. We were actually astounded to see him coming up with a new project in Muscat because we thought his concepts, though as much as we love it, were too remote to be conceived here. We are excited about ‘The Mawalih Souk of Life’ project and we cannot wait to see it build.

What are the current home design trends in the market? How can they be incorporated realistically in the local market?

The lines between architecture and interiors are blurring. Interior concepts are finding its way into defining the architecture and vice-versa. We are seeing concrete accents, exposed structural steel, random facade and

12 FACES April 2018

Granite wall and marble reception

COVER STORY window elements and stacking of floors right above each other, among others. We would love to see clients be more open to such ideas for their houses.

There is also a shift towards fresh, natural materials such as stone, concrete, granite, bronze and copper.

These elements will help bring an organic and serene ambience to any space. We have also been visiting nurseries around Muscat to educate ourselves more on the indoor plant collections available here and how they can be sustainably incorporated into our designs.

Furnishing is half the design. The local market is only beginning to mature in terms of designer furniture and the ones that exist are exorbitantly expensive. There is a real opportunity for furnishing companies in Europe, South Asia and elsewhere to confidently spread themselves across the country - if they can offer competitive pricing.

The furnishing industry is huge in UAE but, unfortunately, we don’t have many options available here in Muscat. Even the companies here collect orders and then import it from UAE. We are constrained by local availability, as much as we suffer from low budgets. We should strive to create a self-sufficient furniture and finishes economy right here in Muscat.

Zahir Abdul Latheef

With homes shrinking in size owing to the rising cost of real estate, what would you suggest to maximise space and make small spaces work?

Design, design and design. Small spaces demand more attention to every small detail, because they are much more significant now. More importance should be given to space planning.

Maximise continuous spaces and limit walls. Join the dining and living rooms and, if possible, kitchen too. Eliminate unnecessary walkways, corridors and circulation spaces and narrow down to what is most important. In that way, you can opt for larger living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms, in return for smaller public areas, while staying small. The very tactic of weeding out unwanted circulation spaces and stagnant corners can release a lot of space either to cut down or incorporate into primary rooms. Stay with the neutral tone for paints and restrict the wooden elements to one or two grains or stains.

In an ideal case, I would recommend to use only half the plot for the house and use those savings to employ high-end furnishing, lighting and fittings.

Convert the remaining half into a backyard garden.

What are the opportunities and challenges for designers in Oman?

We discover a new interior design or architecture company opening in Muscat almost every month, which is a good trend. The general shift towards well-designed spaces is on the increase and more and more individuals and companies are poised to make their projects significant. As Oman is still warming up to the design scene, the opportunities will always be on the rise. We also have a lot of new malls populating the retail, entertainment and F&B segments.

The opportunities on the commercial interior sector will definitely flourish. But we have quite a lot of concern in the residential sector, as we find more and more experienced designers dodging residential projects for many reasons.

Residential projects bring in long time frames (from 6 months to 2 years), as they are projects for a lifetime for the client. At the same time, they wouldn’t necessarily have the budgets to sustain a designer until the end. Secondly, it’s the revisions: residential designs will have to be revised at least four times in comparison to an average commercial project. All of these contribute to a difficult practice when operating on residential interiors.

When designing or decorating a home, what are the important factors one must consider to ensure that it reflects the personalities of the members?

In my opinion, it shouldn’t be a factor at all in designing a home. Importance should be given to the personality of the living and breathing space that we are going to create.

Try and incorporate universals as much as possible; like being open, spacious, welcoming with lots of light and enthusiasm. Have respect for the night: design low-key

April 2018 FACES

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COVER STORY

lighting for the interiors and facades.

Avoid ceiling and direct lights as much as possible. Try to create drama with accent lighting and ingenious colouring combinations.

What role has technology played in enhancing the interior décor/ design?

We owe a lot to the various software companies for all the powerful applications we use every day to create, visualise, detail and construct every project. The time of handrendering is long gone, though we use hand-sketching for initial concept preparation.

We use VR sets like Oculus to place the client directly inside the rendered space and make them experience for themselves what we have designed. Rendering and animation software like Lumion is pushing the boundaries of architectural presentation and are taking them to a new level. A bit of cinematic expertise can turn those animations into a movie like an experience.

Dos: l l l l

Always hire an interior design consultant to build or renovate your home.

Pay for your design; if you get it for free, know that it’s only worth so much.

Have sufficient funds for the design and fit-out; good interiors on a budget don’t work.

Know the difference between an interior designer and a decorator. They are not the same. Interior design is the art and science of understanding people’s behaviour to create functional spaces within a building.

(Decoration is the furnishing or adorning of a space with fashionable or beautiful things. In short, interior designers may decorate, but decorators do not design.)

Don’ts: l l l

Don’t believe the myth of DYI in areas of interior design. It’s more complex than one usually thinks.

Give your requirements and expectations to the designer; don’t force your ideas on him/her.

Don’t create a cove light feature in your next ceiling. We have had it too much and its time that we get rid of it. Many designers have invested a lot of time making them a little different from one another, and in the pursuit, have lost much or all of its charm. We have stopped doing it on our projects. It’s now time for alternatives.

What would you advise people looking to modernise their living spaces?

I would always advise to embrace openness and being empty. It isn’t necessary always to fill up space.

It’s not a lot of things that add up to a beautiful room, but a small collection of meaningful furniture and finishes.

And when you get down to modernising, it needs to be done as a whole. Simply replacing furniture while keeping the old ceiling and patterned tiles would yield no results. Remember, if you use a lot of existing items in your makeover, it is going to look as it is even after the makeover.

What is sustainable interior design?

In simplest terms, a sustainable interior design should be composed of well-designed spaces, high-quality materials, durable furnishing and lasting finishes.

Interior design/décor dos and don’ts to observe while planning a spring/summer home makeover: * Design district Muscat is an interior design consulting firm with focus on food and beverage, retail, office and other commercial spaces. It started operations in 2015 and has 97 projects to its credit. Its works are primarily centred on the malls in Oman and also in Qatar, UAE and Saudi Arabia. It also undertakes work on residential interiors, but are limited to projects where the client has a real investment in design. For more info, log on to www.d2muscat.com. Nabila Al Macki

14 FACES April 2018

Home Décor Trends

COVER STORY

Moody colours, flirty designs, perky installations…home décor trends for the year are easy to incorporate, if you have an eye for detail and a trait for DIY projects

Vibrant kitchens: Take the

drudgery out of cooking and cleaning with some colourful accents in your kitchen. Even neutral colours can look bright with some personal touches.

Velvet Furniture: Changing

furniture to match new trends is not everyone’s idea of upping the style quotient of homes, more so in the current economical status quo.

But if you are game to try some DIY activities to give your living space a touch of novelty, think velvet – velvet furniture. You could make velvet cushion covers or even velvet throw rugs to get it right.

Ceiling wallpaper: Home

décor, often, is all about thinking out of the box; like this new trend of accentuating the ceiling with wallpaper. Pick the one that matches the tastes and likes of the home members and adorn the bedroom or living room ceiling with wallpaper.

Vintage lighting: Vintage is

always in fashion; this time around it is making its presence in light fittings. You could either make one

yourself, on the lines of any vintage light you see online, or pick one from any second-hand shop. Watch out for vintage pendants and sconces in brass and copper finishes.

Bolder colours: It is all about

adding colours in your house this year. Darker and intense colours in furniture and furnishings will easily do the task – it could be curtains, pillows or any décor elements.

Even red furniture has been trending, as are warm colour schemes that contrast and create drama with other elements in the room. Add to that mustard yellow accents to give the room an instant sunny touch.

Moody palette: Alongside bolder colours are moodier ones that are perfect for all those who love contrasts and changes. For example, the ‘black frame’, a blend of navy and black, in rooms that have brighter elements. Adding coloured metals will also work.

Pleasant pink: Colour pink

has been celebrated in its myriad avatars; this time around it is the

pleasant pink that has found a voice in home décor trend. This shade of pale, blush colour can make your room look soft and welcoming.

Circled notes: If experts are

to be believed, circles are the new triangles in the design quarters.

This is one trend that can be easily introduced. Stitch circle patterns on to your accent pillows or other furnishing items in your home to see the impact of circles in giving your room a chic feel.

Wall art: Turn your walls into

canvas with big pieces of art, which, of course, you could create yourself with some ingenuity and online help. Think big and bold, wall art will create depth and texture to your room.

Room dividers: Carved

wooden panels, which act as room dividers, are making their way back. This one, of course, is best considered in homes that have large rooms that need to be divided to create a sense of privacy

April 2018 FACES

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IN CONVERSATION

Timeless Treasures of

Rosemary

W

ith every piece of item bearing the ‘at-least-100years-old’ tag, Rosemary Whelan’s abode of antiques induces a feeling of revisiting history. The rich mahogany and walnut fixtures create a drama that has the look and feel of a historical movie; as if a character wearing a top hat and a long tail coat would walk through the door or sit on one of those regal chairs and hold court.

For Rosemary, that drama is an everyday affair, as she walks along the hallway adorned with massive pieces of furniture and home accessories – heavy dining tables and upholstered chairs, intricately carved sideboards, large ornate mirrors that stretch entire walls, chest of drawers that have the opulence of history, majestic chaise lounge, plush furnishing...

There is whiff of luxury that abounds the two floors of Richwood Antiques showroom in Azaiba.

“All of my furniture… everything, is 19th century,” states Rosemary, who has, through Richwood Antiques, provided a perfect platform for connoisseurs of antique furniture.

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April 2018

Antique furniture specialist Rosemary Whelan shares her passion for 19th century European antique items that have been a witness to the passage of time “Most of it is in its original condition, but clean and beautiful and ready to use. We have mahogany, walnut and oak furniture, which are all of very high quality. A lot of it comes from Ireland, England, London particularly, and Paris. All of the mirrors are original; they are gilded in 24 carat gold - not painted. The quality is exceptional,” she explains.

Business, however, was the last thing on her mind when she arrived in Oman in 2010, with two babies in tow. She was joining her husband here, and was convinced, like most expatriates, that it would be a twoyear stint. But Oman and its charms changed that equation. “We settled in so well…everything went on right and I decided to bring my business,” she states.

An affiliated member of the CINOA (Internationale des Negociants en Oeuvres d’Art), an international

association for art and antique experts from around the world, and an active member of The Irish Antique Dealers Association, Rosemary has been in the business, since she started it as an 18-year old.

In 2011, she launched Richwood Antiques with a 10-day exhibition at Bait Zubair Museum; it was a huge success and demonstrated the love for antiques among Omanis who previously had to source such items personally. Based on the response, she decided to run the business as a full time venture. “There was a niche market for us, and it has been consistent and good since. People who are familiar with this kind of furniture appreciate the fact that they can buy it right here in Oman,” says Rosemary, whose expertise on the subject is vast. She has contacts in Europe, particularly in Ireland and London, from where she sources her products.

IN CONVERSATION

Although she works on word of mouth, she has an impressive list of clients from Oman and GCC countries, who keep her busy with interesting projects.

She also works along with interior architects to identify the needs and requirements of different properties, but is open to walk in customers who are seeking individual pieces to adorn their living spaces. “Everyone is welcome to make an appointment (www.richwoodantiques.com) and buy our pieces,” she adds.

Looking back to the time she first set foot in Oman, Rosemary, who has travelled the world but had never been to Oman until 2010, recalls how easily they settled in and made Oman their home. “We had a lot of Omani friends…

That is what made it quite easy and welcoming for us. They were so friendly and so happy to get to know us... I think that is the wonderful thing about this country. It’s lovely,” stresses Rosemary.

Rosemary with Irish Ambassador to Oman and Saudi Arabia, Tony Cotter and his wife Marie Cotter

Up Close & Personal With

Rosemary Whelan The home I grew up in...

Is in Dublin, Ireland.

When I was a child I wanted to...

Be a nurse.

The moment that changed me forever...

The day I met my husband.

My greatest inspiration...

My two beautiful children.

My hero…

My dad.

I dream of...

A better, more peaceful world for

my children to grow up in.

My greatest regret...

I have no major regrets. I would do it all over again!

If I have time to myself...

I go to the gym.

My favourite haunt/holiday destination...

I love travel and have many favourites, but right now I have a huge desire to spend a month in Tuscany. I love everything Italian.

My favourite weekend spot in Oman…

Any secluded beach for camping. The coastline in Oman is spectacular.

I will not leave my house without…

My phone Things I like about Oman…

Its uniqueness - Oman stands out among all Middle East countries for its exceptional beauty; the people are welcoming and friendly.

My success mantra is...

Never say never!

In 10 years’ time, I hope to be...

As busy and as happy as ever!

April 2018

17

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

‘Of Sea

D

enyse Woods’ ‘Of Sea and Sand’ is set between Oman and Ireland and follows Gabriel’s visit to Oman and the region.

Gabriel arrives in Muscat in 1982, fleeing a shame he cannot escape and a mistake he cannot resolve. Staying with his sister in Oman, he very much feels a stranger in a new land. Gabriel starts an intense love affair with a woman that no one else has seen. Gabriel’s sister and the locals begin to tell Gabriel about the jinn, supernatural beings borne out of Arabian and Islamic mythology. Gabriel is not convinced that his lover is one of the jinn and continues his affair until one day she suddenly and mysteriously disappears.

and Sand’ ‘Of Sea and Sand’, Denyse Woods’ 6th novel, celebrates the beauty of Oman, Iraq, and Ireland and explores the mysterious folklore of these countries

Twenty-six years later, Thea Kerrigan, an Irishwoman, arrives in Muscat fleeing her own problems and her own past. Gabriel sees her and believes she is his lost lover.

Thea is certain they have never met before, but nonetheless she is drawn to the deluded, and perhaps dangerous, stranger.

In this novel, Denyse Woods celebrates the beauty of Oman, Iraq, and Ireland and explores the mysterious folklore and the

Denyse Woods

supernatural traditions of these countries. From the glittering wadis of Oman to the hum of Baghdad, and the stark Atlantic coast of Ireland, ‘Of Sea and Sand’ carries the reader around the world in a strange tale of Irish faeries and Arabian jinn, tied together by a story of love and damage and loss.

Denyse Woods is an Irish novelist based in Cork. She was born in Boston and has lived around the world.

Her novels include the critically acclaimed ‘Overnight to Innsbruck’ and the bestselling ‘The Catalpa Tree’.

Reflecting a long-held interest in the Arab world, three of her books are based in the Middle East. Her work has been translated into six languages. Of Sea and Sand is her sixth novel.

In 2016, as the winner of the Florida Keys Flash Fiction Award, Denyse, who has also written as Denyse Devlin, spent two weeks writing in Ernest Hemingway’s studio in Key West – the first author to do so since Hemingway himself. Her books have been translated into six languages.

Denyse is the Creative Writing Tutor at Mallow College and was Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service Writer in Residence 2017, which involved mentoring library writers’ groups. From 2009 to 2013, she was the Artistic Director of the West Cork Literary Festival.

Born in Boston, Denyse had a peripatetic childhood.

Moving from one country to another gave her a lifelong habit, and love, of writing letters, which proved an excellent apprenticeship for a novelist.

(The book is available to buy from Amazon: https://www. amazon.co.uk/dp/9774168038 or https://www.amazon.com/ dp/9774168038)

18 FACES April 2018

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

PAIRIDAEZA: A PARADISE IN OMAN ‘Pairidaeza’, an organic farm in Barka, has received American and European accreditation Narjes started organic farming as a passion; wanting to put healthiest food on the table for her grandchildren.

She started by showcasing her goods at Souq Es-Sabt, the weekend market at The Wave that is held from November to February, and, in no time, she was catering to clients who had become regular buyers.

Different types of lettuce, rocket leaves, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, potatoes, lemon, corn and countless herbs were much in demand. The vegetable list soon broadened to include pickles, vegetable stock, tomato pesto, olive oil and different cheeses, such as halloumi and labneh.

P

airidaeza (paradise in Persian language) is a unique concept, developed and diligently brought to fruition by Narjes Mohammed Mirza. There are many firsts that Pairidaeza can be credited with – it is the first farm that grows organic food, it is the first initiative by an Omani woman who started retailing in 2016 and continues to be the only national to do so and, now, it is the first to have received American and European accreditation.

Covering an area of 10 acres, Pairidaeza in Barka is OneCert certified, EU Organic Certified and USDA Certified. A product can be labelled organic when it has followed and complied with specific international rules set for organic farming that is checked every year.

In 2016, Narjes started retailing. Goods from Pairidaeza can now be picked at Carrefour, Spar, Lulu, Sultan Centre and Mars, and the demand is only increasing. But what is heartening for Narjes is that more and more people are becoming aware of the goodness of organic food and are stocking up on fresh produce that are bursting with flavours and nutrients. It makes all the effort that goes into caring for the plants worthwhile as no chemicals or pesticides are used on the plants. In short, the only alternative if a plant cannot be saved by using natural techniques, when infected, is to remove it; likewise for the livestock. The animals are cared for and ensured they are kept in clean surroundings and enjoy a healthy diet without antibiotics and medications.

So, what next?

“We may look at growing organic fruits or even start an organic café,” states Narjes. The fact that everyone understands the benefits of organic food and that it is grown right here in Oman, is a huge bonus.

In other words, it is assurance to the consumers that what is being purchased is truly organic and that its integrity has been maintained throughout its journey from the farm to the plate. Most important, it is a misnomer that the product has to be exorbitant if it is organic. There is a difference, but it is worth it when the food actually tastes delicious and is healthy as well.

April 2018 FACES

19

CENTRE STAGE

The Essence of an Extraordinary, Gifted Mind “I call myself the ‘accidental artist’. It is the only medium which possibly combines all my interests, intuitions and capabilities as a single ‘snapshot’ – emoticon – if you may say. In my art, I can express freely, without the possibility of affronting anyone.”

- Sharmaine Theresa Pretorius Meet high-end artist SHARM.T.P (Sharmaine Theresa Pretorius, aka Ilza), who is based in Nizwa for the past 7 years, as guest writer Mary Philip shares her voyage into the extraordinary mind of the artist

The Rose Revisited

How many of us have a dream, and then recall it later?

Many of us will fail to remember its finer details for sure. But not so for Sharmaine Thérèsa Pretorius, a South African artist based in Nizwa, who sees herself as a visual interpreter of dreams. Her surreal paintings are inspired by her dreams, which leap into the unseen future.

The artist finds her dreams are a window into a parallel universe of ‘holographic memories’. For her, each of us is surrounded by our holographic memories, like ‘pillars full of bubbles’. Her belief that ‘every person lives in an enclosure of some kind’ was proven true when her high-end art exhibition, ‘Enclosure Fathom – Part 1’, was officially opened at Al Rayyan Gallery in Nizwa on 24 February, amid floating, glistening bubbles.

Photo credits: SHARM.T.P.

20 FACES April 2018

Sharmaine Theresa Pretorius

Advocate Ben Ewing, Legal Executive and Head of the Oman office of CMS and also her legal representative, and Abdallah Al Shami, Managing Partner of Mad Solutions, blew bubbles mimicking the shape of holographic memories against a vibrant Vanitas (a symbolic work of art showing the transience of life and vanity of earthly pleasures) backdrop to the artwork ‘Restitution and Contrition’, which was also accompanied by a short story ‘Kickbacks, donkey paws and past reveries’.

Enclosure Fathom

An artist with no formal training, and yet holding more than 600 continued educational credits, Sharmaine is a new-found marvel among the emerging artists. Her first solo exhibition was set up elaborately in the background of Vanitas objects, which could be easily mistaken as a very playful, simple affair, until the complex texts and time needed to absorb the meaning of it all starts threading and connecting what is seen. It is this weaving of complex ideas and the intricate framework of the collection, which held collectors’ fascinated, and made them realise that what they saw was only a tiny looking glass into the unknown depths still to be discovered.

CENTRE STAGE Future plans

About 150 high-end art collectors were invited to the exhibition, hoping that the considerable amount of interest in the artist’s work will also permeate into the broader Omani art scene. Two works were sold last year, and the remaining ones were sold via offshore auction on March 16.

Inside Sharmaine’s mind, every person lives in an ‘enclosure’ of some kind. They have their own paradigms, fashioned by genes, life experiences, unseen forces, and influences.

All matter, composed of elements, consists of atoms. Like atoms our ‘holographic memories’, surround us permanently, says the artist.

People living in England versus people in Oman all spin at different speeds and at different angles every day in this known universe. To her it is a wonderful, delicate mystery.

“We are all unique. It is a puzzle to ‘fathom out’ those wonderful algorithms singular to every person.

Humans are distinct spiritual beings driving their bodies like a driver would his or her car (not like the dummy in Musk’s car, spinning round and round though – pun intended)”, she states, noting that it is like a beautiful, endless algorithm.

An artist par excellence

A gifted synestheste (a person who may see sounds, taste words or feel a sensation on the skin when smelling certain scents), Sharmaine is endowed with the ability to smell and hear noise of even written words, and experience different tastes simultaneously. This unique ‘union of senses’ manifests

Rose Book Opening in her works through intense and dense drawings that simulate music in colours. “I hear the picture in a continuous time loop”, she admits.

Her work represents, in her own words, a degree of supernatural observance.

A kaleidoscopic composition of bright shades, they include maps, puzzles, subliminal layers of messages, and startling hidden musical compositions that mimic the Chladni frequency graph shape. “Everything that I draw is just a postage stamp of a much bigger picture, sort of like a blueprint though,” Sharmaine says.

This talented artist also fights an auto-immune condition, Secondary Sjögren Syndrome with mixed tissue disorder, which continually pulls her down. “Some of my works may look a bit shaky as most of it was done while watching a movie or while multitasking, as I was in too much pain to concentrate on only one thing at the time. My husband Willem lightens the burden with great compassion and love,” she smiles.

Mars Trojan - Elon - The Shroud

Sharmaine is planning yet another exhibition soon, which will include her prized work ‘The Pearl of Nizwa’, based on Oman. Her art catalogue and work have caught the attention of GAA (Global Art Affairs Foundation), and they have invited her to exhibit at the Venice Biennale from 11 May to 24 November 2019 (the poster version of Mars -Trojan - The Shroud will be exhibited at the Biennale 2019; it will be in a room by itself).

Previously, two of the artist’s works have been sent into low-space orbit on the nano satellite, Asgardia-1.

They include ‘Mars Trojan–Elon–The Shroud’, a drawing featuring ‘Elon Musk’ and a dummy of him, with a space rocket falling away, done surprisingly long before the actual launching of the Falcon Heavy, recently, and ‘Change: Ygdrasil’, a paper and digital composition, posing the question whether we need change both on Earth and in space.

As she says, “to just look at art is not enough but to connect heart to heart” is important, and this is true when we view her works and imbibe the visual treat that she creates so effortlessly.

More of her works can be seen on her website www.artshowroom. org and instagram https://www. instagram.com/sharm.t.p/

Vanitas Orange Pink

April 2018 FACES

21

SPECIAL

Full House!

Make your home look and feel special with tips and guidelines from experts in the field of interior design and decor

Style your Home for Spring HGTV’s ‘Listed Sisters’ share tips for getting your home season ready

S

pring is here and that means we have a few more weeks of cooler weather before the summer heat really moves in, and with more than 50 percent of Oman residents looking to redecorate their home interiors this year, there’s no better time to redesign your home with both beauty and functionality in mind.

HGTV caught up with LA-born, Las Vegas-raised twin sisters Alana and Lex LeBlanc, who are co-stars on HGTV’s ‘Listed Sisters’, where they find fixer-uppers and turn them into dream homes. The duo gave us a double dose of design tips and advice on how to style your home for the current season and enjoy it all summer long.

Big, bold and botanical

Lex, an interior designer by trade, who graduated from the New York School of Interior Design, says botanicals can easily

22 FACES April 2018

SPECIAL

transform rooms from humdrum to fresh and vibrant. Simple additions to rooms like indoor plants can easily add life and colour to any place.

addition of some ultra-chic furniture will help give the rooms the feel of a private retreat that you can enjoy all year round.

Easy to maintain plants that particularly thrive in air-conditioned or indoor environments include: succulents, herbs, fiddle leaf fig trees and cascading plants. Or, for those more adventurous, botanical-themed textiles and wall coverings like quirky wallpaper can easily be turned into a feature wall and spruce up any space, giving it a tropical, vibrant feel. Pair these lively prints with muted hues like grey, brown or deep navy blue, to create a space that feels fun, yet sophisticated.

Add your own flair and style

Subtle touches with jewel tones

Design whiz Lex also recommends deep blue and green jewel tones on walls and kitchen cabinets. From her take, these subtle colour touches are a sure way for people looking to turn average abodes into fantastic family homes – a notion her real estate mogul sister, Alana agrees with. These changes can also be done on a small budget, adding some much-needed life to lacklustre living rooms.

Adding an essential splash of colour can brighten any space, taking homes from grim to gorgeous and turning dens from dowdy to desirable.

Those not able to splash out on a whole new wall of paint can update cabinets, countertops, backsplashes or even appliances to create a more contemporary look. The

Any house, to turn into a home, needs some sort of personal touches like family portraits, personal art or sentimental items, throughout. As mothers, a great way to incorporate a family’s style is to frame children’s artworks. It’s amazing to see how a simple finger painting piece can be transformed into a work of art that looks like it’s straight from an art gallery, all by simply adding a framed element. It doesn’t even need to be expensive, pick up some frames from home ware stores to showcase children’s artworks and you will be amazed by the effect it can create.

Function over trends

Spring may be the ideal weather for the outdoors, however, choosing the right outdoor furniture could turn things during the brutal summer months too. Functional furniture layout is very important. Adding shade elements will give the longevity of

any outdoor terrace furniture just that extra bit of breadth to ward off the natural elements. Bright-white upholstery and wicker furnishings work well in tandem to create a sophisticated outdoor lounge for entertaining.

Find a way to get some shade, like a large outdoor umbrella or a pergola, so you can enjoy the space anytime of the day. LED rope lights can also make the outdoors inviting all night long. And, always be sure you use outdoor furniture that can be cleaned easily.

Upgrades on any budget

Opening up a room by removing a wall or two allows seamless living areas. But this isn’t always possible on every budget. Some simple and cost effective ways to give your home a new lease of life include simple additions like new window treatments or curtains – particularly in the main living areas and bedrooms – as this automatically provides a fresh take on furnishings and boosts the visual appeal.

For bathrooms, you can’t always create a spacious and spa-like feel with twin vanities and chrome fixtures and marble surfaces. Instead, opt for candles to create mood lighting and dried flowers like lavender or myrtle that can add subtle aromatics to the room while adding a hint of colour.

For more style tips, catch Lex and Alana on HGTV’s Listed Sisters each Saturday at 21:45pm local Oman time on channel 357. HGTV is available on beIN; to subscribe, log on to: www.beIN.net/subscribe.

April 2018 FACES

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SPECIAL

Five ways to incorporate Middle East into your interior design

Medy Navani, Founder and Creative Director of Design Haus Medy shows how you could incorporate Middle Eastern elements into your home, either as a central focus or through simple touches of interior design

W

ith distinct style and cultural influences, the Middle East provides an individualism found only in the region. Incorporating bold colour, different types of fabrics and instantly recognisable patterns, it has a growing following all over the world, with there being a variety of ways in which to incorporate the style into the home.

Make a Statement

Surrounded by untouched desert and sparkling waters, the Middle East is home to an array of stunning colours, comprised of deep red, orange, and yellow, with tones of azure and turquoise. With such rich colours to choose from, creating a statement wall using a singular colour can provide a unique way to follow the warmth and brightness of the region.

Light the way

Lanterns take a prominent place year round in the Middle Eastern home. The Holy Month of Ramadan, which is nearly upon us, is a key moment when the lantern takes centre

24 FACES April 2018

Light the Way

SPECIAL

Mosic Artistry

stage. Coming in a variety of colours and styles, they are a versatile accessory when decorating the home. Place at the entrance to provide a warm way to greet guests or alternatively hang them above the dining table or outside on a terrace to provide a glow to the surroundings and set the mood for a cosy get together.

Mosaic

Mosaic artistry has always been incorporated in Middle Eastern architecture, with interacted markings and vibrant colours. Intertwine patterns through tiling in a bathroom, as a part of your staircase or as an outdoor flooring option. It will uplift the area with a unique style (almost as art) and give the home a subtle but stunning transformation.

Comfort is Key

Hospitality is the cornerstone of Middle Eastern culture, with the living room taking precedence in the home for guests to be entertained. A comfortable space allows guests to relax, and plush furniture is a must to create an inviting atmosphere. Recreate the traditional Middle Eastern style for this space with low seating. For a quick splash of colour, try decorative patterned throws or cushions, along with plush fabric and textiles to create a distinct look to the area.

Lay it Down

The Middle East has one of the longest histories of carpet weaving, first being made for religious purposes and later to create trade with Europe. Oriental carpets, with their strong bold patterns and colours, are a simple but elegant way to incorporate the Middle Eastern decor into your home. Place under the dining table for a pop of colour or in an entryway to greet guests and to add warmth to tile or wooden flooring.

Comfort is Key

Oriental Carpets with Strong Patterns

April 2018 FACES

25

FEAST ON

Ribs, Burgers and More Some destinations feel as if they have been designed for the new airport, like Grill Shack, which candidly looks out at the road whizzing to the new airport from its vantage position in Azaiba

W

ith the city turning its attention to the plush new sprawling airport, there is a palpable hurry among people to head out, whether to find an excuse in shopping, go on long drives to Seeb and beyond or give evenings a weekend flavour by indulging in some comfort food while soaking in the sudden newness of the area. There is, seemingly, a contagious desire among residents to connect to all things airport. As if its newness is at a premium and one needs to elbow one’s way to get a share of it…

But it wasn’t the airport link or the panoramic view of the road leading towards it that got us interested in Grill Shack, the vibrant burger and bites joint in Azaiba. Having heard of its succulent burgers and juicy ribs, we made a luncheon date with the restaurant that has at its helm Dennis Del Rio whose experience of Muscat’s ever growing foodie culture helped shape the ambience and menu of Grill Shack. He is now set to open a multi-cuisine restaurant adjacent to it, promising residents a treat for the senses, with its décor and ambience signifying its intent to play a prominent role in the foodscape of the capital.

Located in the busy Azaiba filling station square, Grill Shack is a hard to miss food joint, with McDonald’s to its left and the picturesque 18th November Street to its right. There is a feel of urgency in the filling station, which spills on to the outlets in the complex, reflecting also in the style of service adopted by the restaurant.

Self service enhances the vibrancy of the outlet, with staff manning the counter adding to the lively action in the kitchen behind.

The restaurant, which opened last November, has given burger lovers an all new excuse to indulge their palates to an array of exciting hot dogs, wraps,

26 FACES April 2018

burgers, ‘Shack’ meals, scrumptious sides and colourful ‘Shacktails’ or mocktails. Priced economically, the restaurant which carries the tagline ‘Ribs and More’ is designed to cater to customers who have a structured equation with their food – fast, casual, tasty and satiating. Dennis explains that Grill Shack has found its bearing as a restaurant that is in between a QSR and a casual dine-in restaurant.

“If a QSR outlet takes 3 minutes to serve, we take 6 minutes,” he quips, pointing out that the difference lies in the fresh fare cooked for individual customers.

There is no reliance on ready, frozen food, except when it comes to fries; the burgers are served on potato buns to present a healthier option, which, as Dennis explains, is less heavy on the stomach and is a better alternative for those suffering from diabetes. The restaurant follows a minimalistic approach in presentation to make it more economical and convenient. The food is served in boxes that are easy to take away or eat at the quaintly designed restaurant, with seating options to cater to tastes and preferences of different diners.

There are bar stools for those who prefer their own company, alongside tables for larger groups, as well as alfresco dining option to get a feel of the happening area.

Our lunch at Grill Shack began with a refreshing cooler of Sangria. With weather getting summer-ready, especially in the afternoons, the ‘Shacktails’ on offer are just right to start the meal on a refreshed note. The list of summer coolers on the menu is interesting, with the option to choose from Peach Tea, Strawberry Tea, Shirley Temple, Sangria, Hawaiian Blue and Green Apple Mojito. The drinks are also served in takeaway packs to make it easy for patrons.

FEAST ON

We followed the cooler with ‘Shack Chicken Fajitas’ and crispy fries, ‘Shack Double Cheeseburger’ and ‘Shack Ribs’. The Fajita was light with vegetables stuffed in to make it a wholesome meal; bite-size pieces of tender chicken flavouring the wrap with taste that has endeared Grill Shack to foodies in the capital. The burger, imitated any normal burger in the looks quarters, but the chicken patty, laced with cheese and all the veggie accoutrements, trebled its taste quotient. The winner of the day, of course, was Shack Ribs. Lovers of grilled meat will certainly devour this dish in a go. The portion is big and the rib is grilled to perfection; it is soft and tender, with juices giving it the right amount of moisture and taste factor.

Grill Shack is, by all counts, a burger lover’s haven, with the variety of options to enhance the experience every time. And with prices that are best described as economical, repeat visits to this charming shack in the midst of the busy airport zone, is a must.

Shack Chicken Fajitas

Shack Double Cheeseburger

April 2018 FACES

27

LET’S COOK

Pea Time Story They are green, shiny, perfectly spherical and, oh so delicious…

Cook up a batch of pea delights with recipes that will taste as amazing as they look – green and yum.

Pea and Haloumi Fritters Ingredients: l 2 cups peas l 3 eggs l 150gms self-rising flour l 60ml milk l 80gms Haloumi (coarsely grated) l 3 shallots (thinly sliced) l 1tbsp fresh dill (chopped) l 60ml cooking oil l Lemon wedges (to serve) l Fresh dill sprigs (to serve) l Salt and pepper (to taste) Method: 1. Cook the peas in a large saucepan and drain the water.

2. Coarsely blend the peas in a food processor and set it aside to cool.

3. Lightly whisk the eggs in a bowl.

4. Put the flour in a bowl and add milk, Haloumi, shallot, dill and pea puree. Stir in the salt and pepper.

5. Heat 3 teaspoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat and add five tablespoonfuls of batter. Flatten it slightly and let it cook for 3 minutes on each side or until the fritters are cooked through.

6. Serve the fritters with lemon and dill.

Spread Peas…

(This healthy vegan recipe can work as a side dish or as a spread on your toast)

Ingredients: l 1 cup shelled peas l 2tbsp Tahini l 1tbsp lemon juice l 1 tbsp lemon zest l 1 garlic clove (peeled and sliced) l A pinch of cumin l 2 tbsp fresh mint (chopped) l Salt and pepper to taste Method: 1. Place the peas in a vessel and steam it for 1 to 2 minutes. Make sure that it is al dente so that the nutrients are intact and there are no overcooked wrinkle marks on the peas.

2. Remove the peas into a colander and place it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

3. Reserve a tablespoon of cooled peas to mix in just before serving to add a slightly coarse texture to the puree (you could avoid this if you prefer smoother puree).

4. In your blender, place the remaining peas and the Tahini, along with lemon juice and zest, garlic, cumin and mint. Blend it to a smooth and creamy texture.

5. Add salt and pepper to taste.

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LET’S COOK

Spring Pea Soup Ingredients: l 1 onion (chopped) l 2 large cloves of garlic (chopped) l 2tbsp cooking oil l 3 cups peas (frozen, if fresh not available) l 2 ½ cups water l 1tsp curry powder l 2 stalks fresh lemongrass (minced) l 1 cup coconut milk Method: 1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat and add chopped onions. Sauté the onions until soft (for about 5 minutes or so) and then add the chopped garlic. Stir it for a couple of minutes, ensuring that it doesn’t burn.

2.

Now add the peas, along with the minced or finely chopped lemongrass and water.

Bring it to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Add the curry powder while it is simmering and keep the pot covered for 10 to 15 minutes.

3.

Turn the heat off and add the coconut milk. Use a blender to blend the soup until it is smooth. If required, you could add more water. But if you prefer thicker consistency, go ahead and add more coconut milk.

Pea Kachori

(Kachori is a spicy snack made in India. This pea kachori can be made in advance and frozen for use when needed. Although this is baked for health reasons, you could also deep fry them.)

Ingredients: (For the filling) l 2 inch piece of ginger (peeled and roughly chopped) l 2 green chillies (roughly chopped) l 4 cups of peas l Cooking oil l 1tsp mustard seeds l 1¼tsp cinnamon powder l 1¼ tsp garam masala (spice powder) l ½tsp ground turmeric l Salt to taste l ½tsp chilli powder (For the pastry) l 300g plain white flour l ½tsp salt l 1½tbsp rapeseed oil l ¾ cup hot water Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C mark and lightly grease a tray with some oil.

2. In a blender, blitz the ginger and green chilli to a paste and set aside.

3. Follow that by blending the peas. Keep it aside.

4. Place a pan on the gas and put oil in it. Add the mustard seeds and when they start to crackle, add the ginger and chilli paste. Stir it for a few minutes and add the peas. Cook it for a further 5 minutes.

5. Now add the cinnamon, garam masala, turmeric, salt and chilli powder. Cook for a further 2 minutes. Make sure there is no moisture in it, but the peas are bright green.

6. Move this to a bowl and get ready to make the dough.

7. Place the flour in a bowl, add salt and oil and rub with your fingers until the flour resembles fine breadcrumbs.

8. Pour in the hot water, little by little, kneading it into the dough until it is firm and right to roll. Add a teaspoon of oil on to your hand and pat it on to the dough.

9. Now take a pinch of dough, the size of a small lime, and roll it into a circle of about 10cm in diameter.

10. Roll all the dough and get ready to stuff them.

11. To make the kachori, place a teaspoon of pea mixture in the centre and bring the sides of the pastry up tightly around the peas. Seal the pastry at the top by pinching it closed.

12. Roll the kachori into an flattened ball and set aside.

13. Place the kachoris on the baking tray and bake them in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

14. Enjoy hot kachoris.

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IN THE LUXE

PULL UP A CHAIR Chairs may be basic necessities of our everyday lives, but not all of them are designed as essentials. The expensive, exclusive ones are masterpieces crafted to take pampering to another level.

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sk a weary person the importance of a chair to rest his tired back and ask a rich man the significance of a designer chair to experience luxury. While the answer to the former is obvious, the latter can only be appraised from the prices quoted for the extravagance in style, quality and the comfort factors. Like the ones unravelled here to wow connoisseurs of fine furniture…

Aresline Xten

Created by Italian car designing firm Pininfarina - known for Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati car projects - the Aresline Xten is claimed to be the most comfortable seat in the market. It demonstrates the role of technology in ensuring your body’s comfort. Techno gel is used to conform the chair to your body’s contour, thereby reducing even the slightest of seating pressure and fatigue; that also means you could spend long hours on it at office. It is also embedded with Dynamic Synchronised Tilting to tilt the back and seat as per your convenience and comfort.

Price: $1.5 million

Chieftains Chair

As the name suggests, Chieftain’s chair is designed to make you feel like a chieftain occupying a prime seat of power. It was, in fact, named King’s chair when it was exhibited at Copenhagen design in 1949. Designed by Finn Juhl, its make and look is inspired by weaponry; it is a present day icon within Danish furniture art. Made in walnut and teak and enhanced with leather, it is grand in its scale and presentation.

Price: $15,730

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THE LUXE IN THE IN SPOTLIGHT Egg Chair

Want to get cocooned in an egg? This Arne Jacobsen designed egg chair could do the trick. Jacobsen, a well known architect, probably found his muse in designing furniture, as well as wallpapers and textiles. The story goes that Jacobsen sculpted the egg of clay in his garage and then moulded the chair out of a strong foam shell under the upholstery, in 1958. It was designed as a show-stopper in the reception and lobbies of luxurious hotels. It comes with a foot stool, to rest your back and your feet in style.

Price: $7,292

Power Play club chair

Famous architect Frank Gehry sought inspiration from the sturdy apple crates he played as a child to create club chair with thermo gel. It is his original collection of bentwood chair and table designs.

He crafted the collection with interwoven strips of maple, with ribbons of wood taking on a modernist approach of deriving form from function. Although all the wooden strips give it a very rigid look, the thermo gel makes it comfortable - you could opt to use cushion, if needed.

Price: from $8,800 onwards

Coconut Chair

Designer Nelson had a fascination for coconuts, it appears. He compared his chair, which has been described as a typical 1950s design, with a coconut cut into 8 parts. But his coconut chair has colours inverted, giving the seat shell the typical coconut white colour. The upholstery, however, comes in different colours. What the coconut shape offers is the choice to sit in different positions, depending on your whim and fancy – or perhaps comfort level.

Price: $4,500

Oculus Chair

A seat with an eye, that’s what Hans J. Wegner’s Oculus Chair is. As the name suggests (Ouclus is Latin for eye), the back seat curve is suggestive of an eye. This chair too remained a prototype for 50 years until it was launched in 2010, as an exclusive piece of furniture for the discerning client. The seat, made of pure leather, is perfected to give total comfort with support of the neck and back. Its legs are made from stainless steel.

Price: $5,350

Asymmetric Chaise

Harry Bertoia’s Asymmetric Lounge has had an interesting journey. A part of his 1952 wire chair collection, the chair never made it beyond a prototype until 2005. Bertoia’s experiment with bending metal rods into practical art produced this collection. The current version is made from pure steel rods and enhanced with stainless steel. It has vinyl pad seats - 35 percent rayon and 64 percent polyester.

Price: $6,628

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LOOK GOOD

Make your Foundation last As the summer sun gets into its seasonal act, Vindhya Krishna shows five ways to ensure your foundation stays on longer

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et’s face it: we do not want to be the girl with patchy eye shadow, cakey foundation or blush that cannot seem to last beyond 2pm.

Today, cosmetic companies claim to have solved this problem through different formulas and a permutation and combination of ingredients, but how does one choose from a multitude of products? The answer to that question is only through a trial and error of these products.

So, if you are still in search of the foundation for your skin, not ready to go makeup free this summer, and wanting to know the secret behind how women look flawless under the scorching sun, here are a few tips and tricks you can add to your makeup routine this summer to achieve just that.

1. Don’t forget to use a primer

The most important step before starting your routine is to moisturise your face and put on appropriate SPF sunscreen. Once you finish the basic, applying a layer of primer is of utmost importance to prevent patchy spots of foundation. Silicone-based primers or water-based ones are the best for our summer.

2. Have you got the right shade?

During the winter season, skin tends to become lighter or paler, but once summer sets in, the exposure to the sun can cause your complexion to darken. It is smarter to always buy a shade darker than your usual skin tone for the summer. This will prevent you from looking washed out or lighter than normal. Another trick would be to mix the darker shade with your usual shade so that the difference isn’t drastic.

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LIFESTYLE MANTRA

3. Make sure to use the correct formula

The heavy coverage foundation that helped you through the winter might not agree with your skin once sweat starts to roll down your face. You can always buy a heavy concealer and spot-cover any imperfections. Another option would be to use medium coverage foundations or tinted moisturisers. It is best for people with combination to oily skin to use a lesser coverage foundation.

HYDRATE YOUR SKIN

By Sophia Raman

4. Are you using the right tools?

Brushes are ideal for applying makeup; but to get a flawless finish, you will want to turn to a sponge or a beauty blender.

The sponge will help you blend your makeup seamlessly into your skin. It also soaks up the excess product, helping you get a minimal application that won’t feel cakey at the end of a summer day.

5. Don’t forget to set your makeup

Just applying primer and foundation isn’t going to do the trick! Always set your foundation either with a light setting powder or with a setting mist/spray. This step ensures the ‘no melt face’ or even uneven patches. Setting sprays or mists ensure that your makeup stays on longer, throughout the day. If you prefer powder, make sure you carry one with you at all times, as and when a touch up is needed.

Go on, get makeup ready for summer!

BEFORE THE ‘IT’S HOT’ CHANT TURNS INTO A SCREECH, GIVE YOUR SKIN SOME TENDER LOVING CARE TO FACE THE WRATH OF THE SUMMER SUN

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f course, you do not need to be reminded to drink your mandatory 8 glasses of water to stay hydrated during the summer days, but we think you might need a little cue to splash some of that water on your face too. To be precise: splash and wash. Yes, wiping the sweat off does seem easy with a handy wipe – it might be the best recourse to ensure that the makeup is not disturbed, but your skin needs to soak in the water and feel its rejuvenating powers.

The question, however, is how many times should you wash your face? Should you wash every time you return home from the outdoors?

No. You do not need to wash your face the minute sweat beads form on your forehead; that might simply make the skin look dry and even dehydrated. With the air conditioning in your office or home already adding to the dryness, you do not need to turn the life-giving water into a spoiler for your skin. Try and take breaks from air conditioning to make your skin feel alive and follow the requisite skin care regime. l l l l l l

Do not wash your face more than twice a day Remove all the makeup before you wash your face Use a face wash that is suitable for your skin Dab some cold water to close the pores Pat dry your face with a soft towel Follow that with a moisturiser to make your skin feel loved

* A self professed lifestyle guru, Sophia Raman has honed her expertise for beauty and fashion with a natural flair for all things chic and a distinctive style quotient. She is a sophisticated socialite who brings her love for fashion, style and travel to this column.

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IN FASHION

Inspired by Persian rugs and their mystical beauty, Bthaina’s latest collection, entitled Persian Spell, references the elaborate patterns and vibrant colours of the traditional carpets

Bthaina: Persian Spell

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IN FASHION

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IN FASHION

Blending bold colours, exquisite hand embroidery and fluid silhouettes, Bthaina’s ‘Persian Spell’ collection evokes a sense of elegant splendour. Vibrant hues of royal blue, emerald green, forest, amethyst and blue grey make up the bold colour palette.

Fluid kaftans and jalabiyas feature embellished capes, multi coloured tiered layers and fluted sleeves.

Gold thread is exquisitely embroidered into flower patterns while hand embellished sequins adorn tulle layers. Tone on tone rope is knotted and threaded into unique patterns while tassels, tulle and fringes add a playful element.

Combining intricate details with traditional styles, Persian Spell epitomises mystical femininity and timeless elegance.

The new collection is available at Ounass.com, Harvey Nichols Kuwait, Harvey Nichols Dubai, Bloomingdales Dubai and Robinsons Dubai

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IN FASHION

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IN FASHION

* The look book was shot on location at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Malabar Gold & Diamonds: ‘The Great Gold Rush’ Malabar Gold & Diamonds has announced its ‘The Great Gold Rush’ promotion, featuring a wide collection of jewellery in gold, diamonds and precious gems to celebrate this festive (Akshaya Tritiya) season

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rom 28th March to 28th April, shoppers at all Malabar Gold & Diamonds outlets in the Middle East and Far East stand a chance to win up to 100 gold bars, each weighing 100 grams.

Customers will get two raffle coupons with every purchase of diamond jewellery worth RO50 and one raffle coupon for every purchase of gold jewellery worth RO50, which will entitle them to enter the raffle draw to win 100 gram gold bars. A total of 12 lucky winners will walk away with 100grams gold bars in Oman. The promotion will also offer free two gram gold coins on purchase of diamond jewellery worth RO500 and free one gram gold coin on diamond purchase of RO300. Besides, customers need only pay 10 percent and get gold rate protection until 18th April, 2018.

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Customers also get a chance to buy 8 gm (22K) gold coin without paying the making charges from any of Malabar Gold & Diamonds outlets in Oman during this period. They can also avail the zero deduction offer on 22K (GCC) gold jewellery exchange. These offers are valid at their outlets in Oman until 28th April.

ESQUE IT WITH ALE

THE NEW REALITY WITH VIRTUAL REALITY BECOMING THE NEW EQUATION OF A SHOPPING PARADISE, WILL WE SEE THE DEMISE OF MORE STORES, BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY, ASKS ALE AL ZADJALI

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To add more sparkle to this season, the jewellery retailer has also revealed its latest collection of jewellery in gold, diamonds and precious gems to suit the tastes of their multicultural and multinational customers. It has incorporated these designs as a part of various brands presented at Malabar Gold & Diamonds’, namely, Ethnix - handcrafted designer jewellery, Era - uncut diamond jewellery,

Mine- diamonds unlimited, Divine- Indian heritage jewellery, Precia - gem jewellery, and Starlet – kids jewellery.

laire’s is closing and I am having a personal crisis! I was always fascinated with the store and it has certainly been my first go-to for last minute presents, because my nieces are obsessed with it, my female friends are obsessed with it and, honestly, I’m obsessed with it! The store was just nice to look at. Toys’R’Us is getting the same treatment, but I’m less bothered by that and that’s mainly because the last couple of times I walked in, the games just looked boring. I don’t think it’s because I’m older now, but I do believe that the new toys aren’t as exciting anymore. Yes, both closures are currently limited to the USA, but, naturally, they will take full effect internationally soon enough.

This isn’t my point though; reading about those two stores hit me with a reminder, or what I call, ‘the new reality’. It’s where physical shopping is no longer a thing, I mean if you walk around malls you see more and more stores closing down - and not all of them are being replaced. We literally have malls and extensions open up, with a store or 2 only...

It’s kind of scary to think about, maybe it’s just for me because I’m old minded and I prefer to feel the item I purchase. And, as a designer, I prefer for my customers to be able to do the same.

Study, admire and be able to count every hem on what I create before purchasing it. However, the Internet is here to make it clear that virtual reality is the new shopper’s paradise and you can’t blame people. As humans, we are selfish and we want more especially when express shipping is a thing.

Ale Al Zadjali is a 24 year-old award-winning fashion designer; he is the brain behind the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing

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Architectural Splendour of the Grand Mosque

EXPLORE OMAN

No visit to Muscat can be complete without a tour of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to soak in the Islamic architecture and marvel at its intricately designed interiors

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t is the most striking façade in the cityscape of Muscat.

Despite its subdued, low rise composition, it instinctively draws ones attention, even if the busy Baushar road is a part of one’s daily commute. The little arches and muted walls that subtly peak out through the foliage hemming the precinct act as snippets of the voluminous story inscribed within the hallowed structure. It draws you in, inviting you to experience the joys of human excellence in architecture and the binding notes of spiritual oneness within its spaces.

For residents of Muscat, the Grand Mosque, located in Wilayat of Baushar is an extension of the city itself. It is a monumental edifice that reflects the growth of the city – socially, culturally and economically – as one of the most developed cities in the world. While its distinct Islamic architecture reflects the historical

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significance of arches and domes in Oman, its glorious interiors, blended with Arabian flavours, encapsulate its rich cultural connection.

In compliance with the tone and sprit of the country’s architecture, it sprawls horizontally in soft tones of light and colour, as if it is wary of drawing undue attention to its magnificence. It is a silently imposing structure that urges you to take one step at a time to feel and experience its spiritual vibrancy. As if every little archway has a treasure to open up, adding to the conceptual excellence of the structure.

The enormity of the Mosque does take ones breathe away, but nothing prepares one for the inspiring décor and design elements engaged to create an aura of ethereal excellence within. It grabs all the senses, urging one to pause and reflect on the works of human craftsmanship. Every

element has been incorporated with deliberate focus on adding to the bigger picture. Whether it is the chandelier that adorns men’s prayer room or the carpet that covers the main prayer hall, it is the whole picture that gets you before you realise how many little facets of human expertise have been incorporated in every inch of these masterpieces. The single piece of Persian carpet, which covers the prayer hall, is composed of 1,700 million knots; it covers an area of 4,200 square metres, and weighs 21 tons. The chandelier is a work of art in every way possible. It measures 14 metres and weighs 8.5tons, with 600,000 Swarovski crystals.

The Mosque, as the Ministry of Tourism’s online portal, omantourism.gov.om, notes, covers an estimated 416,000 square metres of area and has the capacity to accommodate 20,000 worshippers

EXPLORE OMAN

(the main prayer room, which has a distinct square shape, can welcome 6,500 worshippers at a time). It has an interesting central dome that rises 50 metres from the floor and has a minaret that is striking in its magnificence.

The corridor archways feature Islamic geometric frameworks, while verses from the Quran are inscribed in Thuluth script on the bar connecting the top of the walls and the internal courtyard.

The corridors, which are designed to look like a wall around the Mosque, are connected through the five minarets that symbolise the five pillars of Islam. The north and south corridors have been divided into halls, each containing a decoration from a specific Islamic culture. A canopy of domes, similar to the domes of Bilad Bani Bu Ali mosque in A’Sharqiyah Region (Eastern Region) crowns the top of the corridors. The Mosque also includes a library that contains 20,000 reference volumes in science, Islamic culture and humanity, in addition to the Institute of Islamic Sciences where young people learn the disciplines of religious knowledge.

The Mosque has several other firsts and credits that make it a must-visit destination, whether one is a visitor, tourist or a long time resident. Its location within the city, in proximity to the busy commercial area, makes it one of the most convenient places to visit.

With accessibility opened to non-Muslims, unlike other mosques, it has become a part

of every tour/travel organiser’s itinerary.

However, a dress code has to be followed while visiting this beautiful edifice, which is open to the public every day, except Fridays, from 8.30am to 11am.

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JUST TRAVEL

Have you tried a ‘Homestay’?

Homestays are ideal alternatives for leisure travellers seeking experiences that are unique to the chosen destination

Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

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f you are looking to put your feet up and get pampered, homestay is, perhaps, not your kind of a holiday. Although defined as an affordable alternative, it is not your run-of-the-mill holiday that is packaged to include a checklist of must-see destinations. As the name indicates, it is a stay in a home of a local resident to get a firsthand experience of their day to day lifestyle, witness little snippets of their culture, and hear their stories of the land that they call their own.

As vacations shed their traditional dimensions to adopt and adapt to the changing demands of travellers who are forever seeking more from their visits to newer destinations, there is a rise in demand for affordable accommodations that open up avenues to experience local communities, their lifestyle and culture. And homestays have just gotten more popular. They are untailored, have elements of unpredictability about them, and

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include nuances of adventure, albeit on a more local context. It is an up close and personal experience of the local culture and heritage to turn the holiday into an experience that can be best described as real and genuine.

But, for reasons best known to frequent travellers in this part of the world, it is one concept that is yet to catch on. Perhaps, the following list

of interesting homestay destinations might just help tilt the scale in its favour‌

Kerala, India

For expatriates from this south Indian state, a homestay might not be the only alternative to travel, but for all others bit by travel bug, a visit to this beautiful place on a homestay basis might just be the antidote to relax and experience its scenic vistas.

Kerala, India

The backwaters of this coastal town is replete with peace and serenity that people living in metros yearn for. There are heritage homes that double up as homestay options, presenting architectural splendours of the land. They are convenient for individuals as well as groups and offer a wealth of opportunities to explore its scenic and cultural delights.

Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

For those who have rainforest included in their bucket list, Brazil’s Amazon Rainforest is an ideal destination to visit and experience its richness. There are eco lodges and camps under the forest canopy to choose from, with the option of being paired with an indigenous family. These accommodations are an extension of the nature-endowed place, with simple structures erected from locally-sourced materials. They are traditional in style and offer an opportunity to feel one with the nature; local guides will make the trip all the more special with tips and insights on the ecosystem.

JUST TRAVEL

Sydney, Australia

Australia has a big share of homestay organisations that are aimed at providing alternative accommodation options for students and even individual travellers, but for those looking to zero on one particular place to experience the country on a more personal level, Sydney is the destination. A homestay is the most economical option here, and most of them are designed to offer an authentic local experience. The Sydney harbour, resplendent with tourists and visitors soaking in the panorama, presents a taste of Australia in all its myriad dimensions. For water sports lovers, the place has myriad options to enjoy the sea and the sand alongside its thriving city life.

Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s capital city Havana has been described as the king of homestay destinations, as homestays are structured to create interesting options for travellers and tourists from around the world. There is an old-world charm about the place that endears one to it instinctively. People sitting outside homes chatting with neighbours, will seem like a page taken out of stories written in the last century. There is a friendly mien that is best savoured with a walk around the place. A homestay will present a slice of Havana in all its glory, whether it is its laidback look and feel or the culinary heritage that it boasts.

Tokyo, Japan

It is the main city in Japan and is the best place to experience the country’s heritage and culture as well as its technological developments. And a homestay will present the best of both. A cultural exchange and an insight into the fascinating traditions and colourful costumes is guaranteed at any of the homestays; a visit to the city centre will prove to be a learning experience in modern technology. Friendly locals will go out of their way to present little snippets of the country’s culture and also open up the vast avenues to savour local delicacies.

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DIET & FITNESS

Everything you need to know about the Keto Diet Weight loss on your mind…? Try the ‘Keto Diet,’ suggests Vindhya Krishna, as she highlights the dos and don’ts of the diet, alongside adequate fitness regimen

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keto or ketogenic diet is a very low-carb, high protein and fat diet, which turns the body into a fat-burning machine. It has many proven benefits for weight loss, health, and performance. This dieting technique has been followed by many since the 1920s; it is based upon the understanding of the human physiology and nutritional intake science. It’s said to work for most, as it targets several underlying causes of weight gain – which includes hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance coupled with high blood sugar levels and, the cycle of restricting and binge eating of empty calories.

What is ketosis?

When you eat something high in carbs, your body will break down the compound into glucose and insulin. Glucose is used as primary energy; your fats are not needed and are therefore stored. Typically, on a normal higher carbohydrate diet, the body will use glucose as the main form of energy. By lowering the intake of carbs, the body is induced into a state known as ketosis. Ketosis is a natural process the body initiates to help us survive when food intake is low. During this state, we produce ketones, which are produced from the breakdown of fats in the liver.

Foods to Avoid:

l Starchy foods like bread, pasta, rice, and potatoes. l Vegetables growing below ground contain more carbs; some examples would be sweet potatoes, carrots, turnip, etc. l Fruits other than berries are usually avoided during this diet, as all fruits contain carbohydrates - sugar which gives it the sweetness. l Nuts like cashews and pistachios.

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DIET & FITNESS

l Beans or legumes like peas, kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, etc.

Working out during the Keto Diet:

By now it can be understood that a keto diet allows you to have very few carbs, however, the body does need some amount of carbs during certain types of exercise. You cannot cut out carbs fully from your diet if you have an active workout regime. For, your body will need the carbs as an initial energy boost. There is no need to worry though; your body is still going to burn through the carbs quickly so that little extra carb consumption will not have much of an impact on your keto progress.

Ketogenic diets are designed to help you lose fat. But just following the diet will not aid you in the results you seek; working out is going to help you lose weight and, in most cases, working out consistently while eating the right foods will help you lose fat. One of the root causes of fat

loss during the keto diet is that you eat less due to low carb diets which have an appetite lessening effect on your body. It is also said that as we increase in age, our body’s metabolic rate decreases and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight increases. Worry not though, with the right type of exercise you are sure to increase muscle mass, which in turn will help you burn more calories.

According to the type of keto diet you follow, weight training or exercise schedules can be classified into four types, they are: 1. Aerobic exercise (CARDIO), also known as cardio exercise, is anything that lasts over three minutes. This workout regime is low intensity, keeping up a steady-state cardio for fat burning, and making it a very friendly exercise regime for the keto dieter.

2. Anaerobic exercise (Weight Training/HIIT/HIIE), is characterised by shorter bursts of energy, whether it is weight

training or high-intensity interval training. These two methods are the best tools for fat loss with the gain of muscle mass.

Weight training: It focuses on major muscle groups and helps you build lean muscle.

High- intensity intermittent training/exercise: This technique is carried out with alternating intervals of high-intensity exercises, which could be sprinting or running with shorter intervals of rest periods.

3. Flexibility exercises are helpful for stretching out your muscles, supporting joints, and improving muscle range of motion.

Increasing your flexibility can help prevent injuries caused by shortening of the muscles over time. Yoga and simple after-work out stretches are good examples of this.

4. Stability exercises include balance exercises and core training. They help improve your alignment, strengthen muscles, and control of movement.

Also remember: If you do exercise more than what is required during this diet, such as working out more than three days a week and at high intensity, like sprinting or weightlifting, you will need to adjust your keto diet to fit your carb needs for your amount of exercise. Simply sticking to the standard ketogenic diet likely won’t be enough in this case, as your body will require more sugars or carbs.

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HEALTHY TIDING

Knee pain may be linked to depression That aches and pains have psychological connection has been well established by mental health experts, but that precise pains might be linked to specific disorders, is a new finding. Researchers studying knee osteoarthritis have found a link between knee pain or impaired knee function and depression.

They concluded that knee pain brought on by osteoarthritis can make self care difficult, altering the quality of life and thereby leading to depression. The study of 573 people found that nearly 12 percent of them had developed symptoms of depression during the course of the study period. This was more acute among older adults who had pain at night, when putting on socks, or while getting in or out of a car.

QSun UV tracker The QSun UV tracker analyses skin tones for personalised

High blood pressure risk from grilled meat The barbecue season may be fading fast, but if you

sun safety advice, ensuring that you get your adequate share of exposure to sun. For both, too little or too much of Vitamin D, can affect your health. The tracker is designed to keep a tab on the sun exposure and alert you when it is time to seek shade. It analyses your skin type and your environmental situation, via a Smartphone app, to offer sun safety advice that is best suitable for you. The personalised sunscreen advice is based on your size and the clothes you are wearing; it will also alert you when your skin needs a reapplication of the sunscreen. It is a small device that can be clipped onto your clothes or any item on you that is facing the sun.

are one of those who finds ways to grill and roast meat, season or not, a new study about the risks arising from consuming grilled meat might just put a brake on it. While medical experts had already proven that cooking meat at high temperatures can cause potentially cancer-causing chemicals to form, the new study has found that cooking meat over an open-flame or at high temperatures, as in grilling, barbecuing, broiling and roasting, might raise the risk of developing high blood pressure. Moderation is, of course, the key to minimise the risk, as the study found the risk highest among people who ate grilled food 15 times a month.

Low back pain main cause of disability Despite the health warning that low back pain is the main cause of disability, most people are either getting wrong or poor treatment for it, suggests a survey. According to the study, most doctors tend to prescribe painkillers for back pain instead of recommending physical therapy and exercise, which is effective in the long run. People engaged in physically demanding jobs, having physical and mental comorbidities, smokers and ones who are obese, are at greatest risk of reporting low back pain, which worsens with age. Studies suggest physical therapy, psychological counselling, stretching, massage and other non-invasive treatments to help alleviate the problem.

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HEALTHY TIDING

Bedside charts help pain in cancer patients A simple bedside chart can do wonders in easing pain of patients with cancer, states a study. Researchers worked with medical practitioners to develop the Edinburgh Pain Assessment and management Tool (a pen and paper chart used by medical staff to record pain levels in a simple traffic light system), with amber or red pain levels, indicating moderate or severe pain, prompting doctors to review medications and monitor the patient’s pain more closely. The study found that patients who used the chart reported less pain during the trial period, compared with patients with standard care. The idea, note researchers, is about putting pain management at the forefront of routine care.

Effects of ‘phubbing’ on relationships Research has proven what is an obvious after-effect of phubbing. For the uninitiated, phubbing refers to ignoring the person you are with, in a social setting, so as concentrate on your mobile phone. Researchers found that phubbing can have a negative effect on relationships by threatening our basic need to belong. They studied the effects of being phubbed on individuals in a one-to-one situation and found that it negatively affected the way the person being phubbed felt about their interaction with the other person. The study also found that the level of phubbing increased when people experienced greater threats to their fundamental needs. They also perceived the communication quality to be poorer, and the relationship to be less satisfying.

Forget dieting, eat regularly Forget dieting, eat regularly: that is the advice for people seeking long term success in weight management. A study assessing the common factors that helped people succeed in long term weight management found that eating regularly, rather than dieting, was the most important one. People who try to reduce weight by dieting and skipping meals are, inadvertently, accelerating their fat accumulation than preventing it, stated a researcher. What is then important is to understand the factors underlying weight management, which brings the focus to physical activity and healthy eating habits - the two factors for long term weight management.

Effects of noisy workplace on your heart Noise can have adverse effect on your health – and not just your hearing. A new study has found a link between loud noise at workplace and high blood pressure as well as high cholesterol. Based on this, researchers are urging for worksite health and wellness programmes to include screenings for high blood pressure and cholesterol among employees exposed to noise. Surprisingly, many individuals with high blood pressure or cholesterol also reported noise exposure, thus confirming the strong association between the health ailment and the environmental factor.

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MANDATE

Build your own Terrarium With home spaces shrinking and gardens becoming non-existent, Vindhya Krishna shows how you could create your own little terrarium and brighten up the living room

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ver wondered what was that missing element of your home? Well, if you are on your toes trying to find the answer, and have no qualms about dirtying your hands, build your own terrarium. It will instantly create a vibrant ambience, giving your dull living space a big dose of energy.

There is no better way to add a splash of colour and zeal to your home than with a corsage of blooming cacti, funky succulents, intricate ferns or marshy mosses – orchestrated into a fishbowl, old bottles, mason jars you found lying around at home, or even broken mugs you have been wanting to throw out.

The best part? You get to customise it yourself - they are super easy to put together, require very less care and will fit perfectly into your home, like an artisan with his own indoor masterpiece of home gardening.

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Back in school, you would remember having built a sort of terrarium in science class to exhibit the working of an ecosystem. Of course, the aesthetics of terrariums have changed since its origin, dating back to the Victorian era.

Terrariums today are ubiquitous, uber chic and a millennial trend brought back through various channels of social media. Today, owning a terrarium isn’t just enough for your Instagram feed, it would have to be unique, unheard of, or ornately decorated. Some of the trending terrariums for this season are miniature terrariums, bonsai terrariums, underwater terrariums, mossariums, narrative terrariums or even artificial terrariums.

MANDATE

humble abode, here is a quick step by step method: Step 1: You will have to acquire any open container, which can house the plant species and also fit perfectly into your home. There are many choices you could consider - fish bowls, mason jars, mugs, fancy beverage bottles that you have grown attached to and cannot throw out, glass bottles, geometrically shaped vases, bowls or even old light bulbs, anything that is dimmable. If you want to kick it up a notch and stick to trends, try an enclosed glass case that can be opened and closed as and when required.

Terrariums are ideal for everyone whether you live in a smaller home without space for a full garden or want an indoor garden without having to worry about maintaining it on a regular basis. Terrarium is ideal for even those who do not have a green thumb, as it requires minimal maintenance - like a spritz of water every once in a while and muted sunlight.

So, if you are intrigued by this new activity and searching for a guide/ manual in making one for yourself, loved ones or as a gift for your

Step 2: The next step is to decide the type of terrarium you wish to make; this is where you unleash the creative machine in you. Choosing between mossy greens, desert plants or even ferns and wildflowers could be a few of the options. The easy way out would be to plant succulents or cacti, as they are the easiest to maintain, requiring dry and humid environments, very less care and very little sunlight.

Step 3: Now the building process begins! Once you have decided on your choice of container and

obtained the plants you wish to grow, you will need some rocks/ pebbles, activated charcoal, and some good ole’ soil. The process is a four-layer one - first the rocks for a proper drainage system in case you water them a little too much, then the activated charcoal, which helps in the growth of good bacteria and is an added drainage measure. The third layer is the nutritious soil; be sure to add a proper amount - at least more than 2-3 inches. Finally, add a few pebbles and start planting! Take precautionary measures and wear protective gloves when handling cacti!

Step 4: Go crazy with your customisations; add different crystals, shapes, wildflowers, miniature dolls, placement cards with handwritten notes, or even fairy lights. Hang it up, or prop them on tables, shelves, stands to make it the perfect showpiece in your living room, bedroom or kitchen. The possibilities of variations are endless, you can personalise them as a gift with wordings and decals on the glass, try out different types of plant species in one bowl, or even make an underwater terrarium if you’re willing to go the extra mile.

Doesn’t seem tedious anymore does it? There are many such home gardening projects you could try out.

A very popular one would be ‘herb gardening’, where you grow your own herbs. The process is almost same; you could either plant seeds or purchase them from the corner nursery. Growing plants indoors will give your space an almost Zen like feel; pleasing to the eye, clean and fresh to the touch.

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AT HOME

Window Dressing ‘Treat’ your window right and transform your home from drab to fab On a scale of practicality, altering one’s home design/décor to suit the trend may seem superfluous, unless one has the moolah to back the choice and toe the style quotient. But if you are looking to simply go all out to give your home a makeover without breaking your bank, a window treatment may be all that is needed to get on the trend boat. The choice could be between dressing up your window with fancy curtains or some designer treatment to enhance the aesthetics of your home by adding elements to your window. While curtains are easy to source and are available in a variety of styles and price ranges, window treatment, which is all about incorporating interior decorating elements on or around the window, might require some professional help.

But if your objective is to create a refreshing change in your living space, dress up your window with some personal touches and see how it will alter your very perception of the room. Since curtains are the first things that come into your visual periphery as you enter a room, make a quick checklist of the colours and patterns that will complement your sofa and other furnishings in the room. The fabric that you choose also determines the effect you want to create.

While silk curtains are classic and infuse a formal look to the room, they may not create the appropriate ambience during the summer months owing to the sheer texture. You could, of course, line it with a more thicker fabric or opt for the reliable cotton ones. There are a host of styles and varieties readily available; if not, you could buy plain cotton material and add your own imprints or embroidery on it. But if you are looking to inject a feel and look of luxury in your room, your best bet is velvet.

Once you have decided on the colours, patterns and fabric, follow that by identifying the curtain size to enhance the look. Ideally, your curtain should be at least double the width of the window (even more, if the material is sheer and you want to cut out sun rays peering in) and long enough to add to the effect. If you are looking for drama and if your room is large enough to accommodate it, keep it longer than the floor length; if not, the minimum is to let it skim the floor.

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AT HOME

Here are some window dressing ideas to get you started: Valances

If you love the idea of natural light in your living space, opt for a window valance and feel the change that the choice of colours and designs can bring into your room. For the uninitiated, a window valance is simply a form of window treatment that covers the top part of the window. With summer sun turning up the heat, it is best to pair it with blinds or curtains, which can be kept drawn during the day. You could pick the fabric and design of your choice from your favourite textile shop and get it stitched in the style that is suitable for your room – rounded edges, triangular shapes or curled. Valances are chic and can up your room’s style factor with ease.

Drapes that sweep

Curtains that flow from floor to ceiling have a regal appeal. They can immediately add space to your room and infuse a feel of relaxation, making your home all the more warm and welcoming. Solid colours and simple designs are just right to give you the desired look. You could let it hang loosely from the rod or tie it back in an arch to make the effect dramatic.

Style notes

What is important to notch up the look is the style that you adopt to dress your window with the curtain of your choice. Remember, curtains and drapes come in a variety of styles and it is up to you to decide what style is apt for your room and the window in question. For larger windows, it is best to go for double panels that create symmetry; smaller windows can well accommodate single panels. As for your window heading, you could choose from pencil pleats, grommets (this style creates a structured, symmetrical look and falls into gentle folds), French pleats (also known as threefinger pleat, it is a classic heading) and pole pockets (sewn-in rod pocket at the top of each curtain panel) or create your own novel style.

Dress your window right and add a whole new dimension to your living space.

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A Family That Reads Together…

RELATIVELY SPEAKING

Read books to your children and experience the joys of family bonding over childhood stories that have a bigger say in developing their cognitive abilities

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or those of us who have grown up listening to stories from parents/grandparents, there is a lingering essence of childhood scattered in memories of those stories, as if the ‘they-livedhappily-ever-after’ ending was a reflection of the childhood spent in gay abandon. Some stories only need the recall of a character to come tumbling out of the memory closet; others may be filed for times when the desire to savour those childhood days overpowers all else.

Stories…they are so much a part of the growing years.

But are they still as important as they were, once upon a time? Is there a dedicated storytelling time, even today, to knit the family in fairy tales and real life stories flavoured with romance and simple ways of life?

That stories have an eternal appeal leaves no room for contention, but that we may have lost the art of narrating them does irk the purist in us. While it is easy to blame all things on lack of time and the overpowering presence of smartphones in our lives, the question is, have we, in our hurry to assess the importance

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of quality over quantity of time, forgotten the role of storytelling or even reading stories as a family to create shared memories? Experts may have identified ways and means to demonstrate the importance of quality time, but certain engagements, like reading a story,

or even narrating one from memory, demands a quantum of time. The very act of huddling around a book to listen to a member of the family read a story is visually impacting.

And, if that is the last activity of the day before the children go to bed, that impact is further strengthened.

RELATIVELY SPEAKING

Importance of reading books to your children: Reading boosts family bonding Reading as a habit has largely been affected by technology, but in the face of evidence that it helps build stronger family bonds and opens children’s minds to imagination, it is imperative to make reading a daily habit in your household. So, switch the mobile and the television set off, find a comfortable spot (the bed is your best bet) and read a story to your children. Make them feel warm and cocooned so that they would want to experience those moments repeatedly. When you make reading a habit, it becomes a part of every day exercise and the child will associate it with family time. There is a special joy in shared events and spending time together reading will strengthen your child’s feelings of intimacy and wellbeing. However,

what is important here is to find stories that are appropriate for their age and find the rhythm to make the story interesting. Often, it is all about how you present the story and inculcate a love for reading.

Reading aids cognitive development Stories can spur imagination in children and push them to think beyond the words spoken. It improves the process of cognitive development or the ability to think, explore and figure things out.

Listening to stories will boost this process by providing a sketch to fill in with colours of imagination. There will be questions asked and ideas presented about the story, which will further build the thinking process.

Reading improves language skills Children’s books, generally, contain simpler words and phrases to help them understand the story better, but hearing newer words, often

repeatedly, will create a better understanding of their meanings and increase their vocabulary. In fact, reading to children, even in their infancy, will aid language acquisition. Studies have shown that children who have been read to as pre-schoolers find it easier to cope with the initial stress of learning.

Reading increases concentration Reading boosts concentration and also inculcates a sense of discipline in little children who are, generally, fidgety. When stories are introduced early in their lives, they learn to understand the importance of sitting in one place to grasp the story and sequence of events. Once the comfort level is established, they will even look forward to the daily event.

Such concentration will also help develop imagination and creativity and, in a way, cultivate a lifelong love for reading.

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OMAN NEWS

Bank Muscat appoints new DGM – Investment Banking Bank Muscat has announced the appointment of Saleh Nasser Al Habsi as Deputy General Manager – Global Institutional & Investment Banking (DGM – GIIB). Saleh is a seasoned banking and finance professional with 27 years of experience and brings a wealth of experience to the new role. Prior to joining Bank Muscat, Saleh occupied the position of General Manager - Ministry of Defence Pension Fund. Saleh started his career in 1990 as an investment analyst with the Central Bank of Oman (CBO). In 1997, he joined the MoD Pension Fund as the first employee and played a significant role in developing and implementing the vision and strategy of the fund. During his career, Saleh also served as Board and Executive Committee member of several banks and investment funds.

Cristiano Ronaldo is American Tourister’s 2018 Brand Ambassador

‘American Tourister’ announced the signing of international football superstar and fashion icon, Cristiano Ronaldo, as its new brand ambassador for 2018. Five-time winner – a world record, and the current holder of the FIFA Ballon d’Or Award (2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017), the former Manchester United (2003-2009) and Real Madrid (2009-present) goalscoring record-breaker has won 24 trophies over the course of his illustrious career, including four UEFA Champions League titles, and has captained Portugal to victory in the 2016 UEFA European Championship. Dynamic, stylish and confident, Cristiano embodies the soul of the American Tourister brand. His appointment also comes as football fever begins to grip global audiences ahead of the FIFA World Cup, which kicks off in Moscow, Russia on June 14th, 2018.

OAM’s major transformation mission Oman Avenues Mall (OAM) has embarked on an extensive transformation course to deliver a superlative customer experience, under the tagline ‘Celebrate Everyday’. Within the confines of the transformation plan, which will be carried out in four phases, OAM has signed an agreement with Mwasalat to introduce branded bus services to ensure better mobility and convenience of customers. A major part of the second transformation phase would be the introduction of a cinema complex, for which OAM has endorsed an agreement with Cinepolis to develop a large multiplex that would house 15 screens. The Cinepolis multiplex, currently designed for OAM will accommodate approximately 1500 seats with exclusive VIP lounge. The third phase will include extension to add more room for anchor stores, restaurants and entertainment options.

4HOME opens flagship showroom

Furniture and home furnishing brand, 4HOME, has opened its first grand showroom in Oman at Madinat Sultan Qaboos. Strategically located, the 60200sqft showroom, spread across three floors, features a comprehensive selection of designer sofas, dining and bedroom furniture, in addition to a stunning selection of furnishing items and home accessories. It will be the first showroom in Oman to display over 85-bedroom sets. The brand’s ‘Curtain galleria’ includes both ready-made and custom-made curtains; ‘Mylinen’ section has a range of comforters, bed sheets and fitted sheets made; and it’s ‘Carpet Galleria’ encompasses contemporary, shaggy and classic Persian carpets.

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MGM Celebrates 6-Year Anniversary

Muscat Grand Mall (MGM) celebrated their 6th Anniversary, recently.

As part of the event, MGM hosted a cake cutting ceremony with a commemorative six metre-long cake. The children’s activities, sponsored by Museum of Illusions and JumpingCLAY, included a clay workshop, which saw the participation of over 400 children. All the kids took home their masterpieces from the JumpingCLAY workshop and were presented giveaways from MGM. JumpingCLAY, which will be coming soon to the expansion wing of the Mall, showcased the products that will be available at their new store. The event concluded with a Raffle draw where a Lexus LX570 was given away as the grand prize.

City Centre Muscat launches #DressToBeYou’ campaign

Majid Al Futtaim has announced the launch of its Spring/ Summer 2018 fashion campaign at City Centre Muscat, with the message: ‘Dress to be you’. Offering a vibrant mix of high street stores and affordable fashion, the Mall houses hordes of stylish choices for the fashionconscious and aspirational shopper. The top three SS18 trend highlights of the campaign include ‘Tropical Oasis’ with lush botanical themes featuring oversized motifs in soft teal, sunset pinks, jungle greens and hot orange shades; ‘Hawaiian Rival’, which pairs the bold and retro print with a traditional tailored look for a smart casual look; and ‘Garden Safari’ with earthy tones of light terracotta, sky blues and army green with garden floral prints and animal motifs.

Grand Millennium Hotel Muscat wins Best Business Hotel in Oman Award

Grand Millennium Hotel Muscat walked away with the ‘Best Business Hotel, Oman’ award at the glittering Global Brand Awards 2017 ceremony held in Dubai. Global Brands Awards was established with the aim of honouring excellence in performance and rewarding establishments across different sectors. The awards are given to acknowledge key players who ‘strive for fineness and provide a platform for recognition’. An external research team was constituted to evaluate the nominees, and data was collected by the Awards’ team from different sources including third party data providers and annual reports. A spokesperson for the Grand Millennium Hotel Muscat said: “The award is a recognition of the hard work our team has put in as we consistently go the extra mile to give exceptional services to all our guests.”

Cake Talks 2018

Cake Talks 2018, held in collaboration with the Oman Culinary Guild at Oasis Mall recently, was a celebration of hand-crafted cakes by hobby bakers. The event, sponsored by Lurpak and Oasis Mall, featured 12 professional level cakes, 25 amateur level cakes, 8 cupcake arrangements and 25 uniquely flavoured cakes, which were evaluated by chefs Thomas Oomen, Asanka Dharmaratna and Achyuthanan Das from the Oman Chef’s Guild (OCG), alongside Poornima Subramanyam and Reema Siraj. Dubaibased Reema also conducted workshops on Korean butter cream and Bean paste. The event also included live demos by Rubeena Ibrahim, the brain behind Cake Talks, on basic crumb coat techniques while using butter cream; on bean paste flowers by Reema; Ricotta whipped cream and cheese frosting by Firdous; on cakes using sugar free products by Chef Das and on isomalt sugar craft from scratch by Chef Asanka.

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AUTO NEWS

The BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe

The BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe illustrates the meaning behind the letter ‘M’ at BMW in impressive style: it stands for ‘more’, more of everything. As well as dynamic excellence, the BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe embodies a new facet of luxury for the BMW brand – ultra-sporty, extrovert and polarising. Like the BMW Concept 8 Series before it, the BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe shows off BMW’s new design language, headlined by expressive surfacing that accentuates the car’s dynamism more vividly than before through its bodywork. A small number of precise character lines underline the graphic arrangement of the surfaces. Low to the road and broad instance, the eye-catching front end of the BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe delivers an immediate promise of an exceptional performance experience.

The new Mercedes-Benz Actros and Arocs trucks

The regional launch of the new generation of heavyduty trucks – the new Mercedes-Benz Actros and Arocs – was celebrated in an evening of extraordinary style in Dubai, followed by a day of driving experience and engaging workshops. The event shone a spotlight on the efficiency reliability, sophistication and design defining the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz Trucks launched in the Middle East and Africa. Assembled at the world’s largest truck plant in Woerth, Germany, the trucks come in specifically developed variants for the Middle East and Africa – designed and built to withstand the harshest operating conditions. The new Actros and Arocs set a new benchmark when it comes to safety and assistance systems, supporting the driver and saving lives.

Japanese Automaker Mazda named Best Car Brand With a stylish and strong line-up comprising the Mazda 2, Mazda 3, Mazda 6, CX-3, CX-5 crossover, MX-5 Miata and CX-9, Mazda has been named the ‘Best Car Brand’ for the third consecutive year running by U.S. News & World Report. The Report highlighted the excellence of the Mazda6, Mazda3 and Miata, which ultimately tilted the scales in favour of Mazda, thereby beating other top brands. The two factors that set Mazda cars apart from their competition were performance and interior quality. Mazda with its high-end interiors, elegant designs and overall great performances provide drivers with unforgettable experiences behind the wheel compared to other mainstream car brands. The new luxury range, brought to Oman by Towell Auto Centre (TAC), comprises Mazda 2, Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 in the sedan segment, and Mazda CX-3, Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-9 in the SUV range.

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Alfa Romeo and Jeep® Models win regional awards

The latest models from the Alfa Romeo and Jeep® brands received further recognition from both the international and regional media, the latest being two ‘2018 Best Of’ awards from the Middle East’s regional ‘Automobile’ magazine for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and all-new Jeep Compass. The Stelvio, which also has the distinction of being the first Quadrifoglio to be a SUV, features many class-topping features, immediately making it the new benchmark in the premium compact SUV segment. With its awe-inspiring design, performance and technology, it’s the fastest SUV around the iconic Nürburgring circuit, having clocked a new record for its class: 7 minutes 51.7 seconds. And the success continues with the all-new Jeep Compass, which offers an unmatched combination of attributes.

The new Audi R8 V10 RWS

The Audi Sport GmbH is extending its R8 model series to include a new derivative with rear-wheel drive.

The Audi R8 V10 RWS will arrive in the Middle East during April 2018 as a limited series of 999 units in both Coupé and Spyder variants. The purist character of the new R8 variant is underscored by the matt black grille of the Singleframe and the matt black air apertures at the front and rear of the car. The upper sideblade (of the Coupé) is finished in gloss black, the lower blade in the body colour. Similar to the R8 LMS GT 4, the Coupé is available with an optional red film running over the hood, roof and rear end. Inside, the driver and passenger sit in sport seats covered in leather and Alcantara. Bucket seats are available as an option. The dashboard bears an emblem “1 of 999,” indicating the limited number of units.

Al Jenaibi International Automobiles host Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO

Al Jenaibi International Automobiles, the exclusive importer and authorised dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Oman hosted Torsten Müller-Ötvös, the Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars during his recent visit to the Sultanate. Celebrating twelve years of successful collaboration between Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and Al Jenaibi International Automobiles, the visit was used as an opportunity for Müller-Ötvös to engage with the marque’s clientele in Oman. A private dinner was hosted at the luxurious Chedi Muscat and proved to be an ideal setting for Müller-Ötvös to speak directly with select customers about the pinnacle in luxury – New Phantom.

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Chill Out

Movies

MOVIE REVIEW

Director Anthony Russo & Joe Russo

Cast Robert Downey Jr. Jeremy Renner Scarlett Johansson Elizabeth Olsen Chris Hemsworth Mark Ruffalo

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Avengers: Infinity War

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CHART TOPPERS

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God’s Plan: Drake

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Perfect: Ed Sheeran

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Finesse: Bruno Mars & Cardi B

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Psycho: Post Malone & Ty Dolla $ign

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Meant To Be: Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line

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Look Alive: BlocBoy JB

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All The Stars: Kendrick Lamar & SZA

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The Middle: Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey

9.

Stir Fry: Migos

Also known as ‘The Avengers 3’, this is a third installment in Marvel’s ‘The Avengers’ franchise From the Marvel Comics stable comes this most awaited film of 2018. Produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, it is intended to be the sequel to 2012’s ‘Marvel’s The Avengers’ and 2015’s ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’. This new Avengers outing brings together everyone from past Avengers films - Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Strange, and Thor: Ragnarok. Iron Man, Thor, the Hulk and the

10. MotorSport: Migos, Nicki Minaj & Cardi B

rest of the Avengers unite to battle their most powerful enemy yet - the evil Thanos. On a mission to collect all six Infinity Stones, Thanos plans to use the artifacts to inflict his twisted will on reality. The fate of the planet and existence itself has never been more uncertain as everything the Avengers have fought for has led up to this moment.

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Books

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget UPCOMING RELEASES

The Rider

Brady Jandreau, Scott Lane, Derrick Janis, Cat Clifford, Lilly Jandreau, Tim Jandreau Based on a true story, The Rider presents Brady Jandreau, as a once rising star of the rodeo circuit. Having been injured in a fall and stuck with a plate in his head, he is warned that his competition days are over.

Back home, Brady finds himself wondering what he has to live for when he can no longer do what gives him a sense of purpose. In an attempt to regain control of his fate, Brady undertakes a search for new identity and tries to redefine his idea of what it means to be a man in the heartland of America.

Rampage

Dwayne Johnson, Naomie Harris, Jake Lacy, Breanne Hill, Malin Akerman, Joe Manganiello Primatologist Davis Okoye (Johnson), a man who keeps people at a distance, shares an unshakable bond with George, the extraordinarily intelligent, silverback gorilla who has been in his care since birth. But a rogue genetic experiment gone awry transforms this gentle ape into a raging monster.

To make matters worse, it’s soon discovered there are other similarly altered alpha predators.

Okoye teams with a discredited genetic engineer to secure an antidote, not only to halt a global catastrophe but to save the fearsome creature that was once his friend.

BOOK REVIEW

The New Mutants

Anya Taylor-Joy, Maisie Williams, Charlie Heaton, Henry Zaga, Blu Hunt, Alice Braga The X-Men franchise has branched into horror with ‘The New Mutants’ from director Josh Boone of ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ fame.

It is intended to be the 13th installment in the X-Men film series. In this film, five young mutants fight to escape their past sins and save themselves from a facility where they are being held against their will.

The House of Seven Gables

Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne This Gothic novel tells the tale of a New England (Pyncheon) family and their ancestral home - a rotting home with many gables representing the rotting heart of the Pyncheon family, which carries generations of guilt. The book explores themes of guilt, retribution, and atonement, with suggestions of the supernatural and witchcraft.

Interestingly, the setting for the book was inspired by a gabled house in Salem belonging to Hawthorne’s cousin Susanna Ingersoll.

A House for Mr. Biswas Invisible Cities

Author: Italo Calvino ‘Invisible Cities’ is framed as a conversation between the aging and busy emperor Kublai Khan, who constantly has merchants coming to describe the state of his expanding and vast empire, and explorer Marco Polo.

The book consists of brief prose poems describing 55 fictitious cities that are narrated by Polo. These poems come across as parables or reflections on culture, language, time, memory, death, or the general nature of human experience.

Author: V. S. Naipaul A House for Mr. Biswas follows the life of Mr. Mohun Biswas, who he struggles to find his freedom and a house of his own. The son of a poor laborer in Trinidad, Mr. Biswas is forced to live as a guest in one crowded, inhospitable house after another. After his father dies, his family moves in with his mother’s sister, Tara, and he is humiliated and beaten

by Tara’s brother-in-law Bhandat. The book looks inside colonial society at the beginnings of great transition.

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Chill Out

Movies

WEB WORLD

For Book Lovers Inculcate the habit of reading among your children with online aid from Bookopolis.com

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oin Bookopolis and be a part of a community of young readers who are committed to spread the joys of reading. It is a safe and fun place for elementary and middle school children to connect with other young readers and share their reading experiences.

As the website states, its mission is to ignite a love of reading and make reading a fun activity for kids between the ages of 7 and 12. This objective reflects studies that have shown a link between higher academic performance and reading for fun. The website also offers resources for parents

Why did the baby strawberry cry?

What kind of egg did the bad chicken lay?

What is an astronaut’s favorite place on a computer?

Why does a hummingbird hum?

What did one plate say to the other?

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Bookopolis offers new book ideas that have been rated and reviewed by other kids and also personalised book recommendations for each Bookopolis reader based on books they have read and liked and what other Bookopolis readers with similar tastes have enjoyed. Children can share the books they enjoyed reading, talk about the ones they are currently reading and also engage with friends on different books.

Although children under the age of 13 require to get a parent or teacher’s approval before they register and begin using the service, registering is easy, using it all the more. The account can

Riddle Time

1 2 3 4 5

also be accessed from mobile devices, presenting a wealth of book related information at the fingertips.

and teachers on new books, making it a wholesome destination for everyone.

Children can explore new books, create a bookshelf, share with friends and earn points by adding a book report (Bookopolis offers badges and points as rewards for all your activities, whether it is adding books, reviewing and reporting or inviting friends). The team manning the website also present some of the best elements from the gaming world to motivate kids to read more books and be proud of their accomplishments.

Riddle Time Answers ( March 2018 )

1 2 3 4 5

What kind of driver never gets a parking ticket?

Answer: A screw driver What do you call a dentist in the army?

Answer: A drill sergeant Why did Goofy put a clock under his desk?

Answer: Because he wanted to work over-time!

How did the farmer mend his pants?

Answer: With cabbage patches!

Why did the man lose his job at the orange juice factory?

Answer: He couldn’t concentrate!

Books

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget GADGET NOTES The QWERTY effect!

Believe it or not, products spelt with letters from one side of the keyboard are more popular. According to new studies, your keyboard may be influencing your online behaviour. People, the study states, tend to prefer products and videos which are spelt with more letters from the right-hand side of the QWERTY keyboard. Referred to as ‘the QWERTY effect’, the study is based on the theory that the layout of the keyboard can influence word meanings by linking positivity to the right side and negativity to the left. Researchers found that the content with more ‘right-side letters’ was more highly-rated by the audience in reviews, ‘likes’ or ratings.

Solar-powered pop-up tents

Camping season may be fading with every decimal rise in the temperature, but for outdoorsy folks, who aren’t limited by vagaries of weather, Cinch Hub has the perfect answer with its uber modular solar-powered pop-up tents. These tents are designed to spring into shape in a matter of seconds, which means no struggling to get the canvas up when the heat is on your back. This fourth generation of solar-powered pop-up tents from Cinch has new features like integrated smart LED lighting and the Cinch Pod, a portable ‘living room’ that can connect several tents together. It comes with four wide doors opening into an airy space. It stands 6-feet 5-inches tall and measures 7-feet 9-inches wide, and squashes down into a disc-shaped rucksack with a diameter of 2-feet 10-inches and weight of 18lb.

See clearly & breathe easy with full-face SV2 snorkel

This one is designed for regular snorkelers who have to contend with fog, not forgetting the small window to look out. The Seaview 180 full-face snorkel mask from Wildhorn Outfitters features a wide field of vision, an action camera mount and two separate breathing chambers to reduce fogging, while letting you breathe easier. The SV2 is built to cover the entire face, the large lens is designed to provide a 180-degree view of the seascape and the well-ventilated breathing chamber is separated from the eyes to keep it from fogging up. It comes with a durable silicone insert, which forms a watertight seal around the face - if any water does slip past, it automatically drains out via the one-way chin valve when the head is lifted out of the water.

Bites As usual, little Johnny went with his mama to church this Sunday too.

However, in the middle of the service, Johnny complained to his mama that he was feeling a bit queasy and felt he might puke any minute. ‘No problem dear,’ whispered his mama in his ear, ‘go over to the bathroom on the other side of the Church, and do it.” A minute

or so later Johnny came back looking relieved. ‘Did you go to the bathroom?’ whispered his mama. And Johnny replied: ‘There was no need for that mama. Right outside the door was a big box with a sign next to it ‘for the sick’. I just did it in there.’

4-year old Bob was hungry. ‘Can I have an animal cracker, mama?’ he asked,

to which his mama simply replied, ‘Sure, open up the box, and take a few.’ More than half an hour later, she walked into the kitchen to find it in a mess. Furious, she asked, ‘Bob, why did you spill out all of the animal crackers? What exactly were you looking for?’ Bob looked at her and said in a soft voice, ‘It said on the box not to eat it if the seal is broken. So I spilled out the whole box to look through all of the animals. I couldn’t find any seals!’

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Chill Out

Movies

FUTURESCOPE

April 2018

Aries

March 21 – April 19 Begin the month of April by asking yourself what it is that you really want to do. Follow the answer that pops up – whether it is to explore, start a project or find some action. Don’t stall for time; do it now! You are currently in a pretty fabulous kind of space and following that dream will be a breeze. And you will be surprised to learn how easy it is for dreams to come true. There is romance in your life, but if you aren’t sure what you need in your romantic life, go out and do some searching. When it’s right, you’ll know it from far. Go on, give life a try.

Taurus

Taurus, this is your time to use your charm on the world. Use it on everyone that you come in contact with this month – it could even be your boss who might feel compelled by your charm to give you a raise. Make the most of this beautiful month and enjoy all the little fringe benefits of your charm. Remember, everything will go great only when you believe in it!

Gemini

Keep your focus on finding a partner, whether it is for a casual dinner or a business venture. Fret not whether they are a perfect match, or not; for now what you need is someone who can help you stretch or brainstorm or share a plate of pasta. You are full of ideas, and have set yourself high ideals - combine these two and make the most of life.

Cancer

Make the most of this lovely spring season.

Do not let any blues enter your life. Learn to find ways to do things for yourself, even if it means going for a massage or spending extra time snoozing on your

bed. What you need to do is pamper yourself – stop whatever you are doing, reflect on life and, without a pause, do something that is really nice for yourself.

Leo

Leo, you are raring to go, and how. You are full of great energy and are bursting with ideas. You know what you want, how you are going to get it and who you want to share it with. Go outside and lavish yourself with fresh air and drink in the sunshine. The world is awaiting you. Don’t be surprised if you are feeling lighter, physically and emotionally, than you have felt in a long while.

Virgo

You have always known that you have talents in the acting zone - now is the time to put it to some use. You might be called in to step in as a clown or plan a costume for a niece/nephew’s school fancy dress competition. Give it all your go; feel the adrenaline boost giving you a spring in your step. On the work front, you might need to set boundaries so as not to let your boss/seniors walk over you.

Libra

Libran, it is time to wake up and express yourself. You need to clear things up and say exactly what you feel. Hiding your feelings will not work in the long run.

People around you need to know what is going on with you. Expect romance in early April and do everything you can to live to your fullest.

Scorpio

Magic abounds all around us, but you need to understand the situation completely before seeking miracles. Check out all the possible risks before you undertake the venture that seems to have been scripted by a magician. Keep the lines of communication open with your loved one;

Eddie Murphy (April 3, 1961)

American comedian, actor, writer, singer and producer, Edward Regan Murphy was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Lillian, a telephone operator, and Charles Edward Murphy, a transit police officer who was also an amateur comedian and actor. He was a regular cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1980 to 1984; he was ranked number 10 on Comedy Central’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand-Ups of All Time.

62 FACES April 2018

opt for a methodical option to smoothen things.

Sagittarius

Sagittarian, you are brimming with cheerfulness and goodwill. You are lighting up the lives of the people around you and have found ways to envelope them with your wonderfulness. Share your ideas with friends and indulge in some fun and games to add to the mood. Personally, you will find yourself getting that much closer to realising your hopes and dreams.

Capricorn

It’s time to party and enjoy life this month. It is also time to make time for relationships, particularly the romantic one in your life. Remember, it is all about making relationships work and that demands commitment and dedication. That also includes all other relationships you have – your friends, family, colleagues and the people around you.

Aquarius

You are dreaming big and you have no regrets. Go on, greet the new season in your own charming style. Look forward to a really intense love connection to open your eyes to something you hadn’t seen before. Remember, you really do have to compromise sometimes in life. Your amazing ideas, insights and energy will take you exactly where you want to go.

Pisces

Even though you are almost always right, remember that you are also human and you could make mistakes like everyone else. That also means you need to be open to criticism and open to other opinions.

You also need to consider the fact that taking things in a different direction might actually improve them. Even if someone is asking for your advice, offer it graciously.

Books

s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget

WEIRD NEWS How do self-driving cars communicate with pedestrians?

By using flashing lights and weird noises!

Yes, that’s the news coming from patent applications… While humans have followed the tried and tested wave of hand, nods, eye contacts, honks and even rolling down the window to speak out, the autonomous cars will have to rely on lights and sounds to talk to the world around them. In a recent patent application, Uber has proposed wrapping its self-driving cars in flashing signs to effectively communicate messages to pedestrians and others around the car.

Uber’s patent application is mainly focused on the idea of the car giving instructions to pedestrians about when to walk and where to go

‘World will end in 2061 when Halley’s Comet slams into Earth’

That war ning comes from a selfproclaimed time traveller, who says he navigated the void into the year 2061 to return to the year 2018 and warn the planet of an impending cosmic ‘cataclysm’.

Jeff Williams, who appears in the YouTube video titled ‘Time Traveller Jeff Williams Goes into the future year 20161’, claims 2061 is the year a deadly fragment of the Comet will end all life on Earth. “I was sent back as part of a top secret group called Solarity in order to ensure that the timeline remains stable,” he says in the video. “What they (scientists) don’t know is that this time when Halley’s Comet approaches, it’s going to split and one of the very large parts of the comet is going to hit… It’s going to cause a cataclysmic event that ends the world as we know it on planet Earth.”

Home Décor through Ages Home décor began when our ancestors painted pictures on their cave walls; it grew over the years to become an industry that dictates status l

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Don’t stifle that sneeze!

A man’s horrific experience of stifling his sneeze has led doctors to sound the danger signal on stopping sneezes by ‘blocking nostrils and mouth’.

The man in question, a fit and well 34-year old, ruptured his throat after he pinched his nose and closed his mouth to contain a sneeze. He developed a popping feeling in the back of his throat and swelling in his neck and also experienced difficulty swallowing and speaking. Doctors discovered that air bubbles from the rupture were permeating the soft tissue of his neck and chest. He was hospitalised for seven days, administered antibiotics and fed via a tube so that the rupture could heal. He eventually made a full recovery. According to doctors, halting sneeze via blocking nostrils and mouth may lead to numerous complications.

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Romans displayed their wealth through their homes - banqueting halls were decorated with wall murals and mosaic designs on the floor.

Carpets were a luxury only the very rich could afford in the 16th century - they were often hung on walls or over tables.

Tapestries or painted clothe was also hung on walls.

Floors were covered with rushes or reeds and sprinkled with sweet smelling herbs.

Four-poster beds were popular with the rich in England.

Home decoration was the preserve of the nobility and the very rich, until the emergence of the middle classes in the 18th century.

People working as labourers or craftsmen lived in shacks with one or two rooms.

Home décor came of its own in the 18th century, when luxury items started to become affordable for ordinary people.

Wallpaper, rugs and even pianos became more affordable in the 18th century.

Furniture consisted of basic stools, benches and tables and people slept on mattresses stuffed with straw or thistledown.

Books were displayed as adornments - they were expensive and indicated that their owner was rich and cultured.

Flock and velvet wallpapers were fashionable in the mid 19th century.

Post-war years saw a renaissance in interior design, but the emphasis was on the modern, rather than traditional.

Shiny modern appliances such as refrigerators became part of the decoration scheme, along with plastic melamine dinnerware and coffee tables.

April 2018 FACES

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