OMAN’S LARGEST CIRCULATED WEEKLY — 46,760 COPIES
VOL 10 ISSUE 50 / DECEMBER 22, 2016
THIS WEEK IN OMAN
BAKE SOME COOKIES
PLAN YOUR NEW YEAR’S EVE
HOLIDAY IN THE HILLS
Nothing makes your home feel more festive than the scent of freshly baked cookies. Whip up a batch this weekend. PAGE 18
And your Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. We checked your winter holiday event calendar and it’s full. PAGE 6
The new Anantara Jabal Akhdar is the perfect place to celebrate the season with chilly climes and utter indulgence. PAGE 22
04
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
Give us a shout with questions, comments, compliments, complaints, or just to say “Hi” Founder Essa bin Mohamed Al Zedjali Chairman Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali CEO Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali scottarmstrong@timesofoman.com Chief Executive Editor Scott Armstrong felicia@timesofoman.com
Executive Features Editor Felicia Campbell Features Production Editor Swati Dasgupta swati@timesofoman.com Research/Copy Editor Ashish Dubash shruthi@timesofoman.com
ashishdubash@timesofoman.com
Associate Editors Salim Hamood Al Afifi Shruthi Nair
salim@timesofoman.com gautam@timesofoman.com
Digital Editor Gautam Bhargav Viswanathan
Chief Creative Officer Adonis Durado Associate Art Director Waleed Rabin Graphics Editor Antonio Farach Design Editor Sahir K.M. Lead Designer Geri B. Sonny Designers Antonio Ismael Sandiego Gregory Fernandez Director of Digital Television Joe Morrison Photography MMG Photographers richard@timesofoman.com
aziz@timesofoman.com
Chief Sales Officer Richard Pakenham Head Of Advertising & Marketing Aziz K. Baker Production Manager Shafi Shaik On The Cover Design by Geri B. Sonny For general inquiries or comments: HiWeekend@timesofoman.com
Muscat Media Group AN ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED COMPANY Post Box: 770, Postal Code: 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman EDITORIAL 24726600/24726666 Ext 235/160 felicia@timesofoman.com
CIRCULATION 24726600/24726666 Ext 135/136 circulation@timesofoman.com
ADVERTISEMENT 24726600/24726666 exT 435/193 hi7ayam@hotmail.com
SAY “HI” ON SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/hiweekly twitter & instagram: hiweekly_oman
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
5
06
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
H
LIDAY CALENDAR
EVE CLASSIC STEAK DINNER Nothing says Christmas like a classic steak dinner, and Asado is offering an especially festive nine-course holiday feast to help you celebrate. Asado Sheraton Oman, Ruwi +968 2237 7777 Cost: OMR39 Time: 6pm to 11pm
CHRISTMAS EVE SPREAD Salads, antipasto, cold cuts, and seafood along with mince pies, Christmas pudding and cakes make for a fine holiday supper. Courtyard Sheraton Oman, Ruwi +968 2237 7777 Cost: OMR30 Time: 6pm to 11pm
SEASIDE DINNER & DANCING Enjoy a Christmas meal, welcome drinks, and live entertainment right on the beach. Muscat Hills Resort Qantab +968 2485 3000 Cost: OMR20 Time: 6pm onwards
TURKEY TIME IN SALALAH Start the countdown for Christmas with a lavish international buffet featuring traditional roast turkey. Saffron Restaurant Salalah Rotana +968 2327 5700 Cost: OMR16 Time: 7pm to 11pm
AN EXOTIC HOLIDAY MEAL Enjoy a five-course set menu of East Asian fusion specialties along with live entertainment in this decidedly upscale restaurant. Silk Road Salalah Rotana +968 2327 5700 Cost: OMR22 Time: 7pm to 11pm
AN ITALIAN CHRISTMAS MEAL Enjoy an Italy-inspired Christmas Eve menu at this iconic Italian restaurant. Tuscany Grand Hyatt, Qurum +968 2464 1234 Time: 7pm to 11pm
A GRAND BUFFET A Christmas buffet dinner with live food stations and seasonal delicacies is on at Grand Hyatt. Mokha Café Grand Hyatt, Qurum +968 2464 1234 Cost: OMR29 net, including nonalcoholic cocktail Time: 7pm to 11pm
TURKEY AND TRIMMINGS UNDER THE STARS Spend the night before Christmas under the stars dining on roast butterball turkey, traditional condiments, appetizers, a salad bar, and festive desserts. Rooftop Grill House Grand Hyatt, Qurum +968 2464 1234 Cost: OMR45 net with choice of Canadian Beef, Angus Beef, Wagyu Beef, or Seafood Time: 7pm to 11pm
A THAI-OMANI FEAST Enjoy Omani and Thai fusion cuisine at this unique Christmas Eve meal featuring live cooking stations and a special visitor from the North Pole. Al Maisan Anantara Jabal Akhdar +968 2521 8000 Cost: OMR32, OMR16 (kids 6-12), Free (kids under 5) Time: 6pm to 10pm
SONGS AND A SPREAD Sakalan Anantara Al Baleed Resort, Salalah +968 2322 8222 Experience the joy of dining while enjoying the festive tunes performed by the Band Silk trio. And you get to chose from the festive buffet that will be served on the day. Cost: OMR24 Time: 7pm to 11pm
What are you doing for Christmas and New Year? Tweet us @HiWeekly_Oman; tag us in your weekend instagram photos @hiweekly_oman; or share with us on FB/ hiweekly
EVE
AL FRESCO ITALIAN Feel the festive vibes in this amazing weather at Olivos that overlooks the beautiful pool where the dinner buffet will be served along with bubbly, house beverages, and soft drinks. And it’s free for children under the age of 5. Olivos Radisson Blu, Al Khuwair +968 2448 7777 Cost: OMR30 Time: 6pm onwards
A HOLIDAY DANCE PARTY Don your most festive red and green attire and celebrate Christmas Eve with one of Oman’s most popular bands, Pulse & Soul. Christmas turkey will be served. Route 66 Qurum +968 2469 9946 Cost: OMR8.500 Time: 9pm
AN ARABIC CHRISTMAS Celebrate Christmas Arabic-style at Shahrazad restaurant in Shangri-la with a five-course dinner and live Arabic music and belly dancing performances. Shahrazad Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah +968 2477 6565 Cost: OMR50 Time: 7pm to 11.30pm
TERRACE PARTY Enjoy a jingle beats party with great food from the Park Inn menu. Music spinning with five international DJ’s, face painting, holiday decor, and other fun surprises. Sama Terrazza Roftop, Park Inn Hotel Al Khuwair +968 9743 8184 Cost: OMR10 inclusive of one complimentary beverage, face painting, and party favours. Time: 2pm to 2am
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
077
8 08
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
H
LIDAY CALENDAR
EVE
SURF AND TURF BRUNCH Enjoy an amazing Christmas Day brunch at Sheraton Oman where guests can enjoy an oyster and seafood bar, an antipasti and olive bar, a sushi station, as well as fresh pastas, traditional Chinese and Asian dishes, and steak at Courtyard and Asado. Courtyard and Asado Sheraton Oman Hotel Ruwi +968 2237 7777 Cost: OMR30 Time: 12pm to 4pm
BRUNCH WITH A GREEN VIEW Enjoy a bubbly Christmas brunch overlooking the vast seaside golf course at Al Mouj. Al Mouj Golf Club Al Mouj, Seeb +968 2200 5990 Cost: OMR27 with beverages, OMR18 with soft drinks. Time: 12pm to 3pm
AMERICAN CHRISTMAS CLASSICS Enjoy a lavish Christmas buffet with all the classics, including turkey, and festive beverages along with great tunes. Kids can enjoy the bouncing castle while Santa Claus hands out gifts. Laval Ghala Golf Club, Ghala +968 9699 4365 Cost: OMR25 for adults; OMR10 for kids
SALALAH CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET A lunch that both adults and kids will enjoy alike. While the oldies can savour the festive international buffet with traditional and oriental flavours, kids can enjoy activities like face painting, balloon art, and more. Salalah Rotana Resort Al Saadah, Salalah +968 2327 5700 Cost: OMR22 Time: 12pm to 3pm
A FAMILY PARTY The Jingle Bells Brunch on Christmas Day will feature traditional Christmas food, a live DJ, and a kids corner for the youngsters. Mokha Café Grand Hyatt Muscat Shatti Al Qurum +968 2464 1234 Cost: OMR39 for adults; OMR19 for kids. Time: 12.30pm to 4pm
A MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS Christmas at Anantara Jabal Akhdar is sure to be memorable thanks to the beautiful views, and, of course the gourmet food being prepared at live cooking stations while the resident DJ spins festive jams and Santa gives out gifts. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar +968 2521 8000 Cost: OMR25 adults, OMR12.5 kids 6-12, kids 5 and under dine free Time: 12pm to 3pm
TRADITIONAL XMAS BUFFET Enjoy Christmas delicacies, as well as oriental flavours at the Intercon’s buffet, while children enjoy festive activities and a Santa surprise. Musandam Café Intercontinental Hotel Shatti Al Qurum +968 2468 0080 Cost: OMR28 Time: 12pm to 4pm
BRUNCH AT “THE PALACE” Experience the grandeur of Al Bustan’s elaborate Christmas brunch featuring 15 live cooking stations, International and Arabic food displays, and a mountain of desserts. Santa will surely be making an appearance. Al Bustan Palace - A Ritz-Carlton Hotel +968 2479 9666 Cost: OMR35 Time: 12.30pm to 4pm
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
DAY
A LAID BACK FAMILY MEAL Watch your children’s smiles grow wider as Santa surprises them with wonderful gifts as you enjoy a hearty Christmas Day lunch including a selection of appetizers, roasts, trimmings, and desserts. Linger over coffee while the kids play in the pool. Omede Holiday Inn Seeb +968 9922 5764 Cost: OMR20 Time: 12pm to 3pm
CHRISTMAS POOL PARTY Only in Oman can you spend Christmas Day lounging by the pool and splashing at the beach while listening to a live Christmas music. Which is exactly what you can do while savouring the Christmas Brunch at Millennium Resort. Millennium Resort Mussanah +968 2687 1555 Cost: OMR19.99
A DESSERT DISPLAY TO SATISFY ANY CRAVING If you have a sweet tooth then you can’t afford to miss the winter wonderland dessert buffet, a true artistic masterpiece, at the Al Tanoor Christmas buffet. Al Tanoor Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah +968 2477 6666 Cost: OMR25 Time: 12.30pm to 4pm
AN ELEGANT CHRISTMAS BUFFET The Chedi is pulling out all the stops for their decidedly high end international holiday buffet. The Chedi Muscat Ghubra +968 2452 4400 Cost: OMR46
HI WEEKLY
09
10
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
FEAST THE NEW YEAR Welcome the New Year with a nine-course dinner of oysters, caviar, venison meat, and finest cheeses, or vegetarian indulgences made with the likes of goat cheese and beetroot, heirloom tomatoes, mushrooms, and butternut squash, along with a particularly festive dessert selection. Asado Sheraton Oman Hotel Ruwi +968 2237 7777 Cost: OMR75 Time: 7pm onwards
PARTY WITH KEVIN LYTTLE Kevin Lyttle, the man behind the blockbuster track “Turn Me On” is coming to Oman to host a wild NYE bash. VIP and VVIP packages available. The Oak The Cave, Darsait +968 9933 6078 Cost: OMR45 for singles; OMR60 for couples Unlimited selected beverages until 11pm Time: 7pm onwards
BOLLYWOOD BEATS If you’re missing the latkas and jhatkas from your parties back home, then worry not, DJ Ziya will be spinning at the biggest Bollywood NYE party in Muscat. Poolside Lounge Majan Continental Hotel Bousher +968 9986 1977 Cost: OMR25 Time: 8pm onwards
SAVOUR, SIP, AND SWAY DJ Rudii will be spinning international disco tracks while you enjoy a buffet with live stations, watch live video broadcasts, and party your way into 2017. Mokha Café Grand Hyatt Muscat +968 2464 1234 Cost: OMR89 (inclusive of unlimited drinks) Time: 8pm onwards
PARTY IN PARIS Want to attend the funkiest, poshest theme party in Muscat? Then head to Laval for a “Midnight in Paris” party featuring live performances by French Band A Touch of Paris, a gourmet dinner, and unlimited beverages. Laval Ghala Golf Club, Ghala +968 9699 4365 Cost: OMR35 for party with canapes and drinks, OMR65 for buffet dinner, party, and drinks Time: 8pm onwards
H
LIDAY CALENDAR
GO TO A BEACH BASH Enjoy a fun-filled beachside party at the Muscat Hills Resort where you can fuel-up with a buffet dinner and party into the night. Muscat Hills Resort Qantab, Muscat +968 2485 3000 Cost: OMR90 Time: 8pm onwards ENJOY AN ITALIANO BLACK-TIE DINNER If a laid-back, elegant evening is what you’re looking for then head to Tuscany for a fivecourse dinner. Be sure to dress the part. Tuscany Grand Hyatt Muscat +968 2464 1234 Cost: OMR80 (inclusive of selected beverages) Time: 8pm onwards
DANCE AND DINE AT A LATIN FIESTA Dancing to the sounds of Latino Band, IRE, and the beats of the house DJ after you finish your five-course Polynesian dinner. Standard beverages and a bubbly treat at midnight are included. Trader Vic’s Intercontinental Hotel +968 2468 0080 Cost: OMR60 Time: 7pm onwards
MOUNTAIN-TOP DINING Spend your New Year’s Eve in the lap of luxury, surrounded by the rugged peaks of Jabal Akhdar. Live cooking stations and music by resident DJ will keep the party going all night. On the first day of 2017, open your eyes to the most magnificent view in Oman. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, Nizwa +968 2521 8000 Cost: OMR125 for adults; 62 for children below 12 *hotel package booking required Time: 7.30pm onwards
THE MOST EXCLUSIVE BEACH GALA IN OMAN Attend the poshest party of the year at Al Bustan beach. Romantic torch lights and seating will be arranged around the pool and beachfront where you can say hello to 2017 under the stars. Be sure to wear your finest gowns and suits to this exclusive blacktie event. Al Bustan Palace-A RitzCarlton Hotel +968 2479 9666 Cost: OMR110 Time: 8pm onwards
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
EVE
GLITTER AND GLAM AT THE CLUB International record spinners, Deepside Deejays, will keep everyone dancing into the night at Rumba Lattina. A four-course dinner and free-flowing beverages will keep you on your feet well-past the bubbly midnight toast. Rumba Lattina The Cave, Darsait +968 2465 1051 Cost: OMR30 for singles; OMR50 for couples, additional OMR45 for four course gourmet dinner *unlimited beverages before midnight Time: 8pm onwards
FEEL FREE AT AN EDM EXTRAVAGANZA A huge lineup of international DJs from Europe, East Africa, and the Middle East will be performing a massive show complete with visual effects, LED light setups, at Al Mouj. Finger foods and beverages will be on offer as well as a buffet for the hungry folks. Tickets available at the Virgin Megastore in Muscat City Centre and at Muscat Bakeries. Al Mouj Golf Club Al Mouj, Seeb +968 2200 5990 Cost: OMR15 for below 21; OMR30 for singles; OMR50 for couples. *single and couple tickets include two complimentary drinks Time: 7pm onwards
AN EVENING OF SNOW IN THE DESERT Step into a winter wonderland at the beach resort in Sifa, where snow will be falling over the poolside seating area where you can enjoy a dreamy night that begins with a six-course gala dinner, and continues into the night with live band performances. Sifawy Boutique Hotel As Sifah, Oman +968 2474 9111 Cost: OMR60 Time: 7.30pm onwards
PARTY SANS THE COVERCHARGE Spend the final moments of 2016 at a lively bash hosted by a live band and Shangri-La’s resident DJ at the B.A.B Lounge and the Piano Lounge. B.A.B Lounge and Piano Lounge Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort +968 2477 6666 Cost: Entrance is free, beverages are a la carte. Time: 8pm onwards
POOLSIDE LOUNGE PARTY The Lazy Lizard is going to transform into the Crazy Lizard on New Year’s Eve, starting with a lavish dinner buffet and followed by a performance by a special guest DJ that is sure to keep you entertained until the early hours of New Year’s Day. Cost: OMR45 The Lazy Lizard Radisson Blu, Al Khuwair +968 2448 7777 Cost: OMR45
DAY SHERATON SUNDAY BRUNCH Get over your holiday hangover with some healthy food from the fresh salad counter and made-to-order grill station, or give in to temptation and fall upon the impressive desserts on display at the lavish Sheraton New Year’s brunch. Courtyard and Poolside Sheraton Oman Hotel Ruwi +968 2237 7777 Cost: OMR30 Time: 12pm to 4pm AL BUSTAN BEACH BRUNCH New Year’s Day brunch at Al Bustan’s beachside Beach Pavilion Bar and Grill will be served in grand style with both savoury and sweet favourites to start the year off right. Al Bustan Palace - A Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Muscat +968 2479 9666 Cost: OMR25 INTERCON RECOVERY BRUNCH Musandam Café and Terrace will be offering a special brunch for New Year’s Day. Find a table in the courtyard and enjoy a quiet, peaceful start of 2017. Musandam Café Intercontinental Hotel +968 2468 0080 Cost: OMR22 Time: 12pm to 4pm
HI WEEKLY
11
12
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
4
TV SPECIALS FOR HOLIDAY CHEER
WITH GAUTAM BHARGAV VISWANATHAN
Merry Christmas, Mr Bean Few comics have captured the minds of adults and children alike in the manner that Mr Bean has. A creation of award-winning British actor Rowan Atkinson, the lead in the Johnny English series films, and the man who voiced Zazu in Disney’s The Lion King, Mr Bean has been described as a child in a man’s body. Going about having a memorable Christmas in typical Mr Bean-style, it isn’t long before our character bumbles his way into a series of comedic kerfuffles, from stealing a shopping mall Christmas tree to winning a turkey to buying a gift for his teddy bear before spoiling his Christmas dinner. One of 17 hilarious episodes, Merry Christmas, Mr Bean is one that will have the entire family in stitches. Genre: Comedy IMDB Rating: 9/10 Where to Download: Youtube.com Blackadder’s Christmas Carol A modern-day twist on the Charles Dickens children’s classic, British acting legend Rowan Atkinson plays Ebenezer Blackadder, a naive, optimistic do-gooder, until the ghost of Christmas past accidentally drops in on him, having mistaken him for someone else he should be haunting. The ghost shows him the Blackadder ancestors, who were all rude men, but fabulously wealthy and street smart, and Ebenezer wakes up a different man. The first person to see this new man? Her Majesty, The Queen, who was about to award him £50,000 and the title of Baron Blackadder for being the nicest man in all of England. With all the favourites from the original Blackadder series, including Tony Robinson, Ste-
phen Fry, Hugh Laurie and Tim McInnerny, Blackadder’s Christmas Carol is a brilliant reimagining of this classic Christmas story. Genre: Fiction/Comedy IMDB Rating: 8/10 Where to Download: Netflix, Youtube.com Top Gear Specials From Myanmar to Munich, New Delhi to the North Pole, Japan to Jerusalem, there are few places in the world Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond have not traversed as they go in search of adrenaline and adventure in their cars. Top Gear Specials traditionally aired every Christmas and featured the famed trio taking on a number of daredevil challenges abroad, from crossing the Kalahari Desert in secondhand cars, to braving the exclusion zone around Chernobyl in the Ukraine. The terrific trio are always on the lookout for their next destiny with danger, especially for their holiday special episodes. Although they may have now moved on to bigger and better things, the holiday season is a great time to reminisce and join Clarkson, Hammond, and May on their crazy adventures. Genre: Motoring IMDB Rating: 8.8/10 Where to Download: Netflix Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire In the very first of what has now become a hallowed television tradition, Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire set the tone for the show’s wildly popular, annual holiday episode. With Homer having spent all of the family’s Christmas gift money on getting Bart’s tattoo removed, he decides to make a few quick bucks by going to the dog track and betting on a competitor with a particularly festive name. A truly heart-warming episode, complete with the perfect Christmas miracle, the first ever Simpsons’ Christmas Special truly delivers and is well worth watching over and over and over again. Genre: Anime/Comedy IMDB Rating: 8.2/10 Where to download: Netflix What is your favourite serial’s holiday special? Comment on this story on Hi Weekly’s Facebook page for a chance to win a Times of Oman mug (perfect for hot cider).
FIVE TO TRY HOLIDAY ALBUMS
MERRY CHRISTMAS BY MARIAH CAREY Mariah released one of the most iconic remakes of a Christmas single, of all time, when “All I Want For Christmas Is You” was released in 1994. To this day it rocks radio stations and iTunes charts every holiday season.
UNDER THE MISTLETOE BY JUSTIN BIEBER Bieber’s first Christmas album, “Under The Mistletoe”, is packed with beautiful, feel-good jams and features guest appearances by Mariah Carey, R. Kelly, Boyz II Men. The fun, funky album proves the pop star can rock any genre of music with his sultry vocals and amazing moves.
A PENTATONIX CHRISTMAS BY PENTATONIX This second full-length Christmas record by the popular Acapella group is filled with their impeccable harmonised vocals and songs that are pure holiday joy. It’s interesting to listen to their beatboxing skills, too.
CHRISTMAS BY MICHAEL BUBLE Fans of Michael Buble love this Christmas album, and we reckon you’ll fall in love with it as well, as the record offers Christmas tunes performed with Buble’s signature, vintage sound, smooth vocals, and guitar strums. There’s nothing not to love.
CHRISTMAS WITH JOHNNY CASH BY JOHNNY CASH How about some classic countrywestern holiday songs this weekend? Turn on Johnny Cash’s 2003 compilation album and enjoy a selection of his finest unreleased holiday tunes recorded between 1963 and 1980.
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
is the season to be jolly, and for this very special Christmas edition of Hi Magazine, we’ve got four great shows to curl up and watch as you get yourself into the holiday spirt with hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies, and candy canes. Even if you aren’t celebrating the winter holidays, these special episodes are classics in their own rights and are sure to entertain. —gautam@timesofoman.com
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
13
14
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
15
It’s always fun to get into the festive spirit by decorating for the winter holiday. Using Christmas trees, strings of lights, and other do-it-yourself crafts, making your home feel like a winter wonderland (even in 30-degree weather) is easier than you think. — felicia@timesofoman.com
Family Photo Wreath Big green wreaths are popular winter décor, but why not swap the bows of evergreen trees (a bit tricky to find here) with a collection of family photographs? Cut cardboard into a circle then wrap it with festive holiday wrapping paper. Next, layer your photos overtop of the paper, gluing them to secure. Dress it up with some pops of colour using red and white striped candy, cinnamon sticks, or faux red flowers.
Make Your Own Snow Globe Using epoxy glue, a mason jar, and either a miniature tree or a green scrub brush trimmed into a tree shape, you can create your own snow-on-demand. Glue the tree to the inside of the jar lid, and leave to dry. Next, fill the jar a little less than a third of the way up with sugar or salt and then screw the lid on the jar. Flip over and watch the “snow” dust your little tree.
Paper Snowflakes It’s a classic that we all grew up with, folding and cutting “snowflakes” out of paper. Bring back the tradition and fancy-it-up by using coloured paper, wrapping paper, or the addition of glitter. Display them by clipping them to ribbon hung across your windows or tape directly to the glass.
Create Your Own Ball Drop Take a square of sparkly gold or silver cellophane wrapping paper, thread a string through the centre, and then fill it with as many balloons as you can blow up. Then, affix the balloon-filled square to your ceiling fan. At the end of your countdown, pull the thread and ring in the New Year under an avalanche of balloons. Alternatively, purchase a slew of helium balloons and filling your entire party area with gold, white, and silver balloons. The hanging ribbons will give the space a funky flapper-vibe.
Make Over-Sized Confetti Confetti is great while its being gleefully tossed in the air, but cleaning up the bits and pieces can be a total pain. Instead, make large confetti using colourful construction paper. Draw circles using a cup as your guide, cut them out, and tape them all over the wall or tape them to thread and hang them from the ceiling for an instant New Year’s Eve party feel (with a lot less clean up on New Year’s day).
New Year’s Eve Mood Lighting Take your Christmas or Diwali lights and stuff them into glass bottles and vases, ideally in dark shades, then switch off the lights for instant party ambiance.
Make a Snowman Bowl Take a glass bowl and decorate it using shapes cut from coloured paper, felt, old fabric, or even tape. Use a triangular-shaped orange piece to make the carrot nose and black circles for the coal eyes and mouth. Fill him up with white candy as a playful centrepiece.
String Wall Tree Forget the bulky green Christmas tree and opt for a minimalist version this year with a wall tree made of string. Simply use ribbon, yarn, or thin strips of fabric to create a tree shape on your wall. Use a non-damaging, stick-up temporary wall hook at the point of the tree and hook your ribbons overtop, securing them to the floor with tape. Cover the hook with a star and decorate the strings with circular ornaments made of paper, gift notes, or stickers.
16
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
FIVE CHRISTMAS MOMENTS THAT WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY Some dates in history are ridiculously hard to remember, and require a lot of head scratching and frantic pageflipping through musty old tomes, or internet searches to find an answer to the questions like, ‘when was Napoleon born?’ It’s August 15th, 1769 (I Googled it). But some dates are iconic in and of themselves, making the events that happened on or around them, blessedly easier to remember, and adding weight to the importance of an otherwise arbitrary day. Such is the case with the 25th of December, so we decided to bring you five historic Christmas Day events that make the day even more memorable. —gautam@timesofoman.com STORY GAUTAM BHARGAV VISWANATHAN
1 THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE OF 1914 The World War I was said to be the “War to End All Wars”. Borne of conflicting interests in Europe, the horrors of that conflict are remembered to this day. However, in the midst of the hail storm of bullets that fell over the trenches of France and Belgium on December 24th, 1914, here was a glimmer of hope. On the morning of the 25th of December, 1914 there was strange stillness in the air. French, British, and German combatants crossed over into “no-man’s land” and exchanged gifts with their enemies. As the day wore on, a football match began between the two sides. At higher levels, efforts were made to hammer out a peace deal, and though they ultimately fell through, this day of peace amid bloodshed, remains a momentous example of humanity in wartime.
2 THE BIRTH OF ISAAC NEWTON Sir Isaac Newton, the great discoverer of gravity after his tryst with the apple and the tree, was born on Christmas Day in 1642. While his Eureka moment was the discovery of gravity, Sir Isaac Newton was also a pioneer in the field of mathematics and optics, making tremendous contributions that have played an immense role in the development of modern-day technology— a true Christmas gift for all mankind.
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
4 APOLLO 8 ORBITS THE MOON
3 THE DEATH OF CHARLIE CHAPLIN Comedy is now embedded into popular culture, and names such as Russell Peters and Rowan Atkinson are regularly bandied around comedic circles, but the modern-day comic’s move into mainstream entertainment happened because of pioneers like Charlie Chaplin. Chaplin made appearances in a dramaticallywhopping 99 films, in addition to acting as producer and screenwriter for many of them. Chaplin’s inimitable physical comedic style is one that has influenced many a modern day funnyman. On the 25th of December, 1977, at the age of 88, Chaplin passed away peacefully in his sleep, leaving behind a legacy of comic work that few will be able to rival.
On Christmas Eve, 1968, the American-manned space station Apollo 8 entered the moon’s orbit after breaking free from the gravitational pull of the Earth. The three astronauts on board - Commander Frank Borman, Command Module Pilot James Lovell, and Lunar Module Pilot William Anders – became the first humans to travel outside the Earth’s orbit. Apollo 8 took three days to travel to the Moon and orbited 10 times over the course of 20 hours, during which the crew made a Christmas Eve television broadcast. At the time, the broadcast was the most watched TV programme, ever. The Apollo 8 astronauts returned to Earth on December 27, 1968, when their spacecraft splashed down in the Northern Pacific Ocean. The crew was named TIME magazine’s “Men of the Year” for 1968 upon their return. Apollo 8’s successful mission paved the way for Apollo 11 to fulfil US President John F. Kennedy’s goal of putting a man on the Moon before the end of the 1960s.
5 THE INTERNET GOES PUBLIC Without the internet as we know it today, there’d be no YouTube, no Facebook, no email, and most important of all, no Google. On the 25th of December, 1990, the brainiacs at the European Council for Nuclear Research or CERN, as we all know it, started the planet’s first publicly-accessible website, called info.cern.ch, paving the way for the digital world we live in today.
17
18
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
SWEET CHRISTMAS MOMENTS STORY SWATI DASGUPTA
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
RECIPES CLASSIC SUGAR COOKIES Ingredients 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 cup butter or margarine, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1 egg 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cream of tartar Frosting (double as needed) 2 cups powdered sugar 3-5 tablespoons milk or half-and-half 2 teaspoons vanilla Food colouring (optional)
Christmas is around the corner and along with decorating fir trees and stringing up bells and garland, no holiday celebration would be complete without a plate of fresh-baked cookies.
I
rrespective of what religion each one followed, the colony where I used to stay in India was like a cultural lighthouse where all the festivals were celebrated with equal fervour. Christmas was no different. We would sing Christmas carols together, decorate the tree with mini lights, wait eagerly for Santa’s gifts, and bake mounds of Christmas goodies to snack on throughout our revelry. Every December it was the same, and to this day, the smell of cookies being baked at home never fails to take me back to these cheerful childhood memories. My mother had a special cookie recipe and I remember the jubilation I felt when I perfected it for the first time. We cut the flattened dough into the shape of Santa’s hat, reindeer, Christmas trees, a snowman, and curved bells, then carefully decorating them with icing. Every Christmas since I have rolled up my sleeves and mixed flour, butter, sugar, and egg to make these simple sugar cookies, though I’ve added a variety of other sweets to my cannon along the way. The cookies themselves don’t matter as much as sharing this sweet tradition with my own daughter. It is an annual reminder that there can never be too many reasons to celebrate, or to bake a cookie. —swati@timesofoman.com
Preparation • Mix powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, almond extract, and egg until well blended in a bowl. • In a separate bowl, mix together dry ingredients, flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar, then add to sugar bowl and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for atleast 3 hours or overnight. • Heat oven to 190°C. • Divide dough in half. On lightly floured or sugared surface, roll each half of dough 1/2cm thick. • Cut into assorted shapes with cookie cutters, or cut around patterns traced from storybook illustrations. If cookies are to be hung as decorations, make a hole in each 1/4 inch from top with end of plastic straw. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. • Bake 7 to 8 minutes or until light brown. Remove from cookie sheet to cooling rack to let cool completely (about 30 minutes). • Meanwhile, beat all frosting ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth and spreadable. Tint with food colour, if desired, and use to frost cookies. ORANGE & HONEY COOKIES Ingredients Cookies: 3/4 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup honey 1 egg 2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon orange extract Frosting : 1 cup powdered sugar 1 tablespoon milk 2 tablespoons grated orange peel 1 tablespoon orange juice Preparation • Combine butter, sugar and honey. Add egg and stir. • In a separate bowl, mix remaining dry ingredients, then mix dry ingredients into butter-honey mixture. Mix thoroughly. • Drop well rounded teaspoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets 2-5cm apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes at 190°C. • To make icing, mix all ingredients. • Frost cookies while they are still warm.
RAISIN COOKIES Ingredients Filling: 1 cup raisins, chopped 3/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon flour 1 cup boiling water Cookies: 3 cups flour 3 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup milk Preparation • In a saucepan, combine raisins, sugar, flour, and boiling water to make filling. Cook until thick. Set aside and let cool completely before using. • Whisk flour and baking powder together in a bowl, and in a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar. • Stir egg into creamed sugar; then add milk alternately with flour mixture until dough forms. • Roll very thinly, cut with a cookie cutter, and spread one cookie with filling, placing another cookie on top to make a sandwich. Pinch edges together to seal. • Bake in a 160°C for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
PEPPERMINT CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Ingredients 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 cup packed brown sugar 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract* 3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons hot water 1/2 teaspoon salt 1-2 cups chocolate chips 1/2-1 cup crushed candy canes *optional Preparation • Pre-heat oven to 175 °C. • Cream together butter and both sugars until smooth, then beat in eggs, one at a time. Stir in vanilla and peppermint extract, if using. • Dissolve baking soda in two teaspoons of hot water and then add to dough mixture. Mix in salt. • Stir flour into mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing to incorporate. Then fold-in chocolate chips and candy cane pieces. • Scoop golfball sized spoonfulls of dough onto ungreased baking pans. Garnish top with additional candy canes, if you like. • Bake for 10 minutes or until cookies start to brown.
19
20
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
A FEAST WITHOUT BOARDERS STORY SHRUTHI NAIR
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
21
GO OUT FOR CHRISTMAS DINNER Italian ‘’Feast of the Seven Fishes’’ Rossini Location: The Cave Complex, Darsait Reservations: +968 2465 1066 Menu Highlights Sea scallops and prawns in creamy lemon garlic sauce Mix seafood bisque soup Ocean sorbet Sea bass with sweet potato mash Mixed grill of prawns, squid, cod fish, and sea scallops in a spiced lemon honey sauce Squid ink ice cream Price: OMR18 per person net Filipino-style Christmas Dinner Palayok Location: Al Khuwair (behind the McDonalds) Reservations: +968 2202 4468 Menu Highlights Selection of fresh breads Cream of mushroom soup Roasted beef with mushroom gravy sauce Fish fillet with lemon butter sauce Chicken barbecue Seafood carbonara Leje flan Maja laca Price: OMR5 per person All-American Christmas Supper Laval Location: Ghala Golf Club Reservations: +968 2450 5112 Menu Highlights Apple pumpkin bisque soup Cured meats and cheeses Butter-basted turkey with gravy and cranberry sauce Beef Wellington with mushroom, spinach and brandied gravy Chicken fresh mozzarella, basil, and pesto sauce pastas Apple sage stuffing Homestyle mashed potatoes Candied sweet yams Grilled beef sausage Roasted brussels sprouts with dried cranberries and shallots Pumpkin pie Cheesecake Price: OMR25 (Adults), OMR10 (Kids)
T
he joyous festival of Christmas is celebrated by a huge chunk of the world’s population. Popularly associated with snow, reindeers, pine trees, snowman, red, greens, and whites, and, of course the gift-bearing, paunchy old man from the North Pole, this is a time of year that I too eagerly anticipate, despite not being a Christian or being brought up in the west. Why? Because it’s fun. See, in my household, I was brought up to see all religious festivals as a way to bring people together, either to be a part of loud celebrations, to reflect on the past, or, in my case, to eat whatever special foods were laid out on the holiday table. Like most children, by the age of eight, my heart was broken when I discovered that Santa wasn’t real, and so began my tradition of feeding my sorrows, thanks to a bribe from my parents, in which they offered to take me for a grand Christmas feast if I’d only stop crying. The feast stopped my tears and became the main attraction I began to look forward to every Christmas. I’m sure the food itself was delicious, but what I remember about that first Christmas dinner is not a particular dish, but the feel and mood of the Christmas feast, shared with other jovial merrymakers. For the Brits, the Christmas meal is incomplete without a big, roast turkey accompanied by roasted potatoes and veggies, and topped with traditional pudding. As this was my introduction to the holiday, I assumed for years that this was the standard Christmas meal throughout the world. But over the years, I have enjoyed discovering the diverse ways other cultures culinarily celebrate Christmas, like the Germans, who require roast goose and red cabbage for their tables, along with Grünkohl (trust me, you’re not saying the word right), a kale stew that has to be eaten by all and in good portions to prevent demons from haunting them.
Since Christmas falls in summer time in Australia, people tend to move their Christmas meals outdoor with mounds of barbecued seafood and cold turkey and chicken served with cranberry sauce. In Mexico, traditional stews and fish dishes are on offer, while further south in Peru, Turkey is enjoyed with hot chocolate. The Americans do their grand Turkey dinner a month before Christmas for the Thanksgiving holiday, so their feast could be anything from crown roasts of beef to dainty Cornish game to regional specialties, like the Italian-American “The Feast of the Seven Fishes” for which seven seafood courses are served in a long and leisurely meal. The meat-free menu stems from the Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat on Christmas Eve, and breaking that fast with the Christmas Day feast. The meal can include all manner of things, from baked clams to prawn linguine, to whole lobsters and baked fish. Pasta is typically one of the courses. Across the sea, the Spanish influence on the Philippines is still apparent in their festive Christmas meal, called Noche Buena, usually enjoyed after the evening mass on the night before Christmas. Though the centrepiece of the meal has traditionally been a whole roasted hog, many other dishes fill the tables, with Edam Cheese coated with red paraffin wax, fresh and fried lumpia, fried chicken, roast turkey, adobo slow-cooked meats and chicken, steamed rice, fresh breads, along with an array of cakes, ice creams, and fresh fruits. As Oman becomes increasingly diverse, so does its restaurant scene, providing a unique opportunity for us to go out and explore the cuisines of the world. Christmas is an especially great time to go taste and experience the way the world celebrates. —shruthi@timesofoman.com
22
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
T
A MOUNTAIN OP
HRISTMAS
C
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
O
IN
MAN
S TORY FELICIA CAMPBELL • PHOTOGRAPHY MEHDI TAGHAVI Jabal Akhdar has a kind of magic, from the stepped terraces that are abloom with roses in the springtime and pomegranates in the fall, to the cool breezes that make it a welcome retreat in the blistering summers and the occasional snowflake spotted there in the wintertime. This magic has made it one of the most iconic tourist destinations in the country, and over the last few years, a range of hotels have opened their doors, from no-frills guest houses to luxury boutique properties. And, just in time for the holidays, the mountain’s first full-service resort, Anantara Jabal Akhdar, has opened its doors.
23
24
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
he dreamy property was designed by a marvellously talented young French-Moroccan architect, who ensured that each of the 82 guest rooms and 33 villas enjoyed unencumbered views. The design is a harmonious marriage of iconic Omani design features, like the falaj and fort, infused with romantic Moroccan touches, like in-villa hammam-style showers, intricate tile-work, and ornate lighting, all executed in a decidedly chic, modern way. As an Anantara property, the resort has put an emphasis on creating bespoke, local experiences, from cliff climbing right off the ledge on the property, to village hikes and souq tours with local guides. The service is excellent, both professional and efficient while remaining friendly and casual, from the experts in the oasis of a spa to the servers at the restaurants. These restaurants are among the best in Oman, thanks to Chef Mario Baruffi, a phenomenally skilled Sicilian chef, whose roots are apparent in the marvellous dishes at Bella Vista, the cliff and pool-side Italian restaurant where he serves the most authentic Italian food in the country. Especially memorable are his osso bucco, an eighthour, slow-cooked veal shank served atop perfectly prepared saffron risotto, and the creamy, sweet-savoury butternut squash ravioli. Freshly baked ciabatta bread served with every meal is icing-on-the-cake. The new resort is a wonderful place to indulge any time of the year, but right now, with Christmas and New Year celebrations upon us, it is an especially good time to book a room. While Muscat is enjoying balmy 20 and 30-degree weather, I ďŹ nd it much easier to get into the winter holiday spirit when you are huddled around a ďŹ re pit with a cup of hot cocoa, cosy in your cocoon of warm sweaters and wool socks.
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
HI WEEKLY
25
On the top of our Green Mountain, the evening temperatures drop to the single digits, and as the sun dips below the horizon, the new Anantara transforms as the roaring fire pits are lit along with warming outdoor heaters, and—for this month—a towering Christmas tree begins to twinkle in the courtyard. The Christmas decorations at Anantara are as understated and chic as the architecture, with red poinsettia blossoms adorning the geometric, Moroccan-style fountain in the lobby and simple wreaths hung from the fortress-like interior walls, but in the main courtyard, their grand Christmas tree holds court, surrounded by reindeer and gifts. The surrounding lounge chairs and fire pit provide the perfect vantage point from which to see Santa makes his appearance, or to listen to the choir belt out classic holiday tunes. It might not be a “White Christmas” as it is doubtful that there will be any actual snowfall in Jabal Akhdar this year, but with the icy cold nights, the crackling fires, the sounds of carolling, and the unmistakable feeling of indulging yourself in special treat or two, spending the holidays at Anantara Jabal Akhdar is a festive experience unlike any other. —felicia@timesofoman.com
BOOK YOUR STAY IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Anantara Al Jabal Akhdar Resort +968 2521 8000 jabal-akhdar.anantara.com
Don’t Miss
The new resort is a wonderful place to indulge any time of the year, but right now, with Christmas and New Year celebrations upon us, it is an especially good time to book a room.
In Room Dining (especially if you book a villa) Authentic Italian at Belle Vista Rock Climbing or Trekking Adventures with the mountain gurus Expert facials and massages Excellent wet and dry spa facilities including experience showers, saunas, and plunge pools A warm beverage in the fireside courtyard overlooking the Christmas tree
Special Offers and Holiday Happenings Opening offer of 20% off on all room categories for stays until 30 December 2016, starting at OMR156 CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH (SUNDAY, 25TH DECEMBER 2016) Live cooking stations, traditional holiday dishes, a Santa Claus visit for the kids as well as traditional carols sung by the resort’s choir. 12.00 pm – 3.00 pm, OMR 25 per person, OMR 12.500 per child aged 6 – 12 years. Free of charge for children aged 5 years and below. (Subject to 12% tax and service charge) NEW YEAR’S EVE 2016 (31 DECEMBER, 2016) Book a room and then book a table for an all-night gala. The party will feature international cuisine served from live cooking stations, a DJ spinning heart-pounding beats, a countdown to 2017, and a bubbly midnight toast. 7.30 pm – 2.00 am OMR 125 per adult, and OMR 62.500 per child aged 5 – 12 years, inclusive of 8% service charge and 4% tax.
26
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
Sheraton Oman Hotel held a Gingerbread House Factory event.
IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar held its first annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Japanese Ambassador to Oman, Mitsugu Saito, held a reception at his official residence to honour the Emperor of Japan on the occasion of his 83rd birthday. Photos by Shabin E.
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
Dar Al Atta’a Association celebrated the graduation of 18 students enrolled in the Special Education and Early Childhood Montessori Diploma programmes.
IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY
The 83rd Birthday of the Emperor of Japan was celebrated during a reception at the official residence of Mitsugu Saito, Japanese Ambassador to Oman. Photographs by Shabin E.
HI WEEKLY
27
28
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
At Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa children helped resident manager, Dirk Salzsieder switch on over 1,000 lights on the largest Christmas tree in Oman (14 metres tall).
IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY
Indian Social Club Malayalam Wing organised an event at Hotel Grand Millennium recently as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations and Keralolsavam. Photos by Purushothaman K.
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
The Grand Village at Al Masa Hall saw children singing and dancing at a talent competition, while traditional crafts, natural honey, and other items from Omani SMEs were on display.
IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY
A’Saffa Barbecue Challenge-3 awarded Oman’s best ‘Pit-masters’.
HI WEEKLY
29
30
HI WEEKLY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 50 DECEMBER 22, 2016
SUDOKU
HOW TO PLAY Fill empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column, and area.
Level | Easy
3
1
5
2
8
8
6
5 9 4
1 5
2 9
8
3
1
9
8 3
6
7 1
1
2
8
4
7
6
8
4
3
6
5
Level | Moderate
3 1 9
1
6
5 8
4
9 5
8 6
7
7
4
2 8
4
9 9
9
1
7
5
2
5
4
Level | Difficult
5
4
8
5
6
7
6
5
2
4
6 1 5
4
6
8 2 7
9
3
1
4
7 8
1
2
6
1
3
6 9
PLAY AND WIN SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION OF OUR POST ON FACEBOOK.COM/ HIWEEKLY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN VOUCHERS FROM PIZZA MUSCAT. SOLUTIONS & WINNERS POSTED EVERY SUNDAY.