Hi Weekly January 26 2017 by Muscat Media Group

OMAN’S LARGEST CIRCULATED WEEKLY — 46,760 COPIES

VOL 10 ISSUE 55 / JANUARY 26, 2017

JUST PAST THE AIRPORT P G 20

THIS WEEK IN OMAN

DISCOVER DOHA Often overshadowed by the UAE as a travel and shopping destination, Qatar is a treasure trove of fashion and luxury (sans the crowd), making it an ideal weekend escape. PAGE 10

PLAN A BEACH BARBECUE

FIND OUT IF YOU’RE A FASHIONISTA

The weather couldn’t be better for a leisurely seaside picnic. Plan an easy, no-fuss barbecue with our fool-proof guide. PAGE 18

In the ﬁrst installment of our new quiz series, our contributing beauty editor puts your style obsessions (or aversions) to the test. PAGE 14

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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

Digital Editor gautam@timesofoman.com 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 Chief Sales Officer Richard Pakenham aziz@timesofoman.com

Head Of Advertising & Marketing Aziz K. Baker Production Manager Shafi Shaik

On The Cover Design by Geri B. Sonny Photograph by OmanTripper (www.omantripper.com) 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

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THE WEEKEND LINEUP

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What are you doing this weekend? Tweet us @HiWeekly_Oman; tag us in your weekend instagram photos @hiweekly_oman; or share with us on FB/hiweekly

Your calendar of the hottest events happening in Muscat this weekend

THURSDAY 4:00pm Go to the Muscat Festival Did you y make it to the Muscat Festival yet? If not, make your way over to Naseem park for tons of rides, games, Nas and a activities, or go over the hill to Al A Amerat park for local and global cultural pavilions. It only costs 200 c baisa for adults and 100 baisa for children, which makes it a perfect, inexpensive weekend excursion. Muscat Festival Naseem Park, Seeb Al Amerat Park, Al Amerat Local Contact Centre: 1111 muscat-festival.com

7:30pm Learn the Art of Being Happy Lea At Attend the “Happiness Programme” to learn yoga, breathing techniques, and meditations that will help you lead a happier life. Course is conducted by ha certiﬁed instructors. Harley Davidson Bldg, Al Khuwair Ha +968 9321 1469 artoﬂiving.org

10:00pm Party in White Join the White Party with DJ Alex B at Copacabana and enjoy 40% discount Cop on beverages until midnight wearing all white. OMR 5 Copacabana Grand Hyatt +968 9945 6682

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FRIDAY 11:00am Plan a Wedding The Oman Bride Show is on from January 25-28 with stalls of local and international designers, caterers, and jewellers on standby to help to-be-brides plan their big days. Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre +968 2449 0034 Omanbrideshow.com

SATURDAY 8:30am Have a (cheap)North Indian Breakfast Ind E Enjoy an array of North Indian breakfast dishes iincluding kulche chole, chol kachauri aloo, keema pav, and lassi keem at a discount of 10% from 8.3 8.30am to 11.30am every Saturday. Taste of India Ghubra +968 2449 0034

10:00pm 2 Parties, 1 Night

10:00am Bend-Over-Backwards

If you aren’t able to make up your mind whether you want to party indoors or outside, then Rumba Lattina is the place to be this weekend as they host the IndoorOutdoor Fusion Night featuring a stage outside where you can groove to disco and EDM, as well as an indoor party when you can dance to peppy reggae, hip hop, and African tunes. Free face painting will be available to get everyone in the party spirit. Entrance is OMR10 for men, ladies free.

Have you always wanted to do handstands and back bends but felt like you don’t have the strength or ﬂexibility? Sharon and Shayma will teach you the techniques, poses, and help you build core strength and ﬂexibility through their workshop. OMR20 per class.

Rumba Lattina +968 2465 1051 Rumbalattina.com

Innerchi Qurum +968 9617 3181

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DIABLO III WITH GAUTAM BHARGAV VISWANATHAN

t’s rare to find a role-playing game that works so well across multiple platforms, much less one that allows gamers to play alongside each other across different game stations, whether you’re a traditional PC gamer, or a fan of Sony’s latest PlayStation. And that, right there, is Diablo III’s biggest USP. Not only have the creative folk at Blizzard Entertainment created a masterpiece of a game, they’ve successfully sown the seeds for loyalty among legions of video gamers across platforms, as their counterparts are struggling to do just that. While this hardware coup is the cherry on top this virtual sundae, what really ropes in gamers is the brilliant environment and deeply immersive story behind Diablo III. The latest instalment in this very enjoyable series sees the protagonist – known as the Nephalem –investigating a crater caused by a meteor that has struck the cathedral in the town of Tristram in the game’s dark fantasy world of Sanctuary, from which there are now spawning hordes of undead. Turns out that these undead are under the thrall of the Skeleton King, just one of many minions being unleashed by Diablo, the game’s antagonist and ruler of Hell, who wishes to stamp his dominion across the realm of Sanctuary. So far, he’s winning. But that’s where you and your trusted band of warriors come in. With the Nephalem having banished Diablo in previous incarnations of the game, the evil one knows he needs to act fast if he has any hope of consolidating his iron grip. To complement player preferences and combat styles, Blizzard have created a host of intriguing, fascinating characters, all of whom have been outfitted with a unique arsenal of talents and skills to bring to the fight in their own trademark styles. While the lithe, speedy Monk takes inspiration from the Japanese styles of martial arts and prefers lightning-quick strikes, the burly

Barbarian and disciplined Crusader tower over their opponents and cleave paths of destruction in front of them. While some within the game might react positively to other characters, some might ﬁnd a more hostile reception awaiting them, depending on their moral alignment and reputation, which inﬂuence countless actions you might undertake in a myriad number of ways. For those who prefer more arcane and stelthy qualities, Diablo III has introduced characters such as the secretive Demon Hunter, a hybrid of assassin and archer qualities; The Witch Doctor, who draws magical powers from the living forces of nature; and his counterpart, the Necromancer, who channels his energy from the spirit world; in addition to the versatile Wizard character. Diablo III’s dark world and its characters, who are scattered all across the moral compass, are not necessarily aligned towards one would call “the greater good” or heroics, but that’s not what the game is about. Blizzard’s latest offering and its expansion – Reaper of Souls – is all about getting the job done, in whatever style suits you as the gamer. In it you will discover for yourself how your actions and their consequences shape the world of Sanctuary as you undertake a quest to overthrow the overlords of the underworld. No two playthroughs are the same, and that is what makes Diablo III one that you return to play over and over again. —gautam@timesofoman.com

The Short and Skinny Name: Diablo III Genre: Fantasy/RPG/Action What’s it About: Your homeworld of Sanctuary is under siege by the overlords of the underworld. Will you and your comrades answer the call and restore order to the land? Platform: Windows, Mac OS, PlayStation, Xbox Where to buy: Battle.net (PC/Mac), PlayStation Store, Xbox Store IGN Rating: 9.5/10 PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

FIVE TO TRY

ART GALLERIES

GALLERY SARAH Located next to the famous Bait Al Zubair museum, Gallery Sarah is an art gallery where local and international photographers showcase their finest work. Check out the interesting bi-monthly exhibitions. Bait Al Zubair, Al Sadiya Street, Old Muscat +968 2208 4747

STAL GALLERY Stal gallery is one of the most beloved art galleries in the city as it promotes the work of young and emerging artists through mentorship programmes arranged with established ones. More than a gallery, it is a platform for empowering art culture in Muscat, and is thus considered a second home for innovative minds and visual artists who use the space to test new concepts and engage in collaborations with other local and international artists. Al Inshirah Street, Madinat Sultan Qaboos +968 2460 0396 stalgallery.com

BAIT AL BARANDA Situated just off the historic Corniche in Mutrah, Bait Al Baranda was originally a Portuguese house that then was home to the American Mission in the early 1930s, the British Council in the late 1970s, and is now a history museum which hosts community events for local artists and aspiring artists. Mina Qaboos, Mutrah +968 2471 4262 baitalbaranda.mm.gov.om

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY OF OMAN Oman’s most popular photography association works to promote and develop local talent. The club has an art gallery where photographers host exhibitions to display their work as well as spaces for lectures, workshops, and other creative activities for members. 18 November Street, Seeb (just passed Al Mouj) +968 2428 3708 facebook.com/OmanPhotographySociety

BAIT MUZNA GALLERY Established by Sayyida Susan Al Said in 2000, Bait Muzna is a renowned name in the world of Omani art. The gallery promotes contemporary art from local and global artists, while also supporting projects aimed at preserving traditional Arabic culture. Shatti Al Qurum, Qurum +968 2460 7006 baitmuznagallery.com

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WE E K E N D E S CA P E

DA Z ZLE D IN D OH A STORY SALIM AL AFIFI â&#x20AC;¢ PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Where are you escaping to this weekend? Show us on Instagram @hiweekly_oman and tell us about it on facebook.com/hiweekly

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ravelling around the Gulf has been on my bucket list for quite some time, especially Doha, as this Qatari capital is known for its fascinating buildings accompanied with rich culture, beautiful people, and a lot of recreational activities. A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of travelling to Qatar for three glorious days exploring, relaxing, and most importantly, shopping, during Qatar’s ﬁrst annual shopping festival. Shop Qatar is not only a season of unparalleled offers at major shopping destinations throughout the country, it is also a time when visiting customers, like me, can avail of fantastic ﬂight packages from Qatar Airways and great offers at hotels around the city. So, I phoned a friend who lives there, packed my bags, and headed to the airport for a fantastic weekend. DAY 1: SOUQS AND SHOPPING MALLS I’m always game for travelling, but there’s nothing worse than prolonged airport procedures, so I avoided the hassle by booking AL MAHA MEET AND ASSIST SERVICES (+974 4010 3446). When I landed, I was greeted at my gate and welcomed to their lounge for a quick cup of coffee as they deal with arrival procedures. In less than a half hour, I was rolling my bag out the front doors. I felt a momentary rush as I stepped onto the street. It was overwhelming to set foot in what I’d call the “Manhattan of the Gulf”. I’d heard stories about this metropolis, from its big city lights, to its towers and skyscrapers, to its cultural fashion, shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife. I wanted to have the ultimate cultural experience during my stay, so I had selected a room in one of the nine hotels scattered around Souq

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Waqif, a renovated traditional souq that boasts a cultural atmosphere, restaurants, cafes, and shopping. I settled on the AL MIRQAB BOUTIQUE HOTEL (+974 4433 6444; SOUQWAQIFRESORT.COM), a traditionalthemed hotel that sports dark wooden Islamic and Arabian designs adorned with lanterns and seating areas in red velvet. Al Mirqab felt like an old mansion that had been renovated to perfection without taking away its essence or soul. As I walked into my posh-yet-traditional souq-view room, I stopped to admire the paintings gracing its walls before opening the curtains and taking in the beautiful of the city. After relaxing for a couple of minutes, I went out to explore the souq. Al Mirqab is perfectly positioned at the gateway to the souq, so my journey of wandering began the moment I left the building. The energy was impeccable with people from around the globe shopping their hearts out for souvenirs. Walking into labyrinth of allies leading to more shops that sell traditional Qatari items, I felt a resemblance to our own Mutrah souq, but with a modernised architectural style, and more diversity. I came upon a courtyard ﬁlled with open-air coffee shops and restaurants. It looked older than the rest, so I stopped a local and asked him about the area and was told that this place used to be a trading centre for Bedouins. Turns out it was renovated in 2004, but much of the old structure had been preserved in the new tourist hub. And in ancient style, most shops still close from noon until four in the afternoon. My stomach began to growl, so I decided to stop at PARISA (+974 4441 1494), a lavish Iranian restaurant in the middle of the souq

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for a bite. The space itself was a wonderland of mosaic carpets, colourful windows, and Persian paintings along with a fountain ﬁlled with fresh fruits, and traditional music playing in the background. Parisa wasn’t just a majestic-looking place, it also had some of the best Persian food I’ve ever tasted. I started with a dish of eggplant and dried cheese whey, called kashke bademjan, followed by a mixed grill platter piled high with luscious minced meat kebabs and cubes of tender beef served with pomegranate seeds, pickled cucumbers, roasted eggplants, and aromatic mint. The tender, moist Persian kabab koobideh were rich, juicy, and perfect. Full and happy, I continued exploring, heading to the nearby MSHEIREB MUSEUMS (+974 800 3642; MSHEIREB.COM), which is located in the heart of old Doha, which is now known as Msheireb Downtown Doha. The collection of four museums aim to preserve the historical past of the country, with the most iconic being the Company Museum, which showcases the tools and equipment utilised by Qatari men back in the day, as well as their journey of discovering oil and building their modern nation. Mohammed Bin Jassim House was built by the son of the founder of the state of Qatar and focuses on the development of the project and is home to the Echo Memory Art Project, which displays objects uncovered during demolition of the site. Radwani House, built in the 1920s, gives a glimpse of everyday family life in Qatar from the past to present. And, most unique among them, is Bin Jelmood House, which memorialises the

history of the global slave trade in the Indian Ocean region and celebrates the changes since its abolition in Qatar. This is a topic often left untouched in the region, making this museum distinct among the historic projects in the GCC. After relaxing a bit in the hotel, my evening was to be all-aboutshopping. I headed out into the night with the ambitious aim of visiting as many of Doha’s shopping malls as I could to take advantage of the month-long shopping festival. I began at the newly opened mall of Qatar, where they have a load of international brands, restaurants, and entertainment centres, and then suddenly, I ran out of energy. I took my shopping bags back to my hotel, where I ordered room service and called it a night. DAY 2: EUROPEAN PALACES AND ARABIAN DHOWS After a comfortable, and much needed, night’s rest at Al Mirqab, I headed down to the al fresco diner, AL TERRACE LEBANESE LOUNGE (+974 4433 6666) for my morning coffee ﬁx before setting off with the Qatar Tourism Authority to visit the yet-to-beopened shopping destination called AL HAZM (+974 4466 6625; ALHAZM.COM), which I expected to be just another large mall. When we arrived, I was stunned to see a grand palace that looked like something from a European postcard. I wandered around the property in awe of the attention to detail, from the elaborate mosaic carpets and marble of the interior, to the grand, streetlight-lit courtyard. I made a mental note to return for its grand opening later this year.

SHOP QATAR FESTIVAL Qatar kicked off its very first month-long shopping festival, Shop Qatar, on January 7, promising an unparalleled shopping experience accompanied with tempting offers, fun activities, and entertainment for the whole family spread across the city. The festival aims at showcasing what Qatar has to offer in the retail sector, from luxury brands, to local fashion boutiques, to night bazaars, and traditional souqs. The annual event also features fireworks by the corniche, food trucks, fashion shows, an African circus, live comedy performances, a Broadway musical, 30 pop-up shops showcasing local talent, and concerts from major Middle Eastern superstars, Majid Al Mohandes and Hussain Al Jassmi. It is also a great time to get special flight and hotel offers. Booking and Information: shopqatar.qa Malls to Visit Mall of Qatar Ezdan Mall Lagoona Mall Hyatt Plaza The Pearl Qatar The Gate Mall Festival runs until February 7th, 2017

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For lunch, I headed to the harbour to try a traditional Qatari lunch served aboard a traditional dhow. As we cruised the waters of Doha, I enjoyed views of Sheraton Hotel, the oldest in Qatar, as well as the floating-on-water MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART (+974 4422 4444; MIA.ORG.QA), and the high-end global sushi restaurant, NOBU (+974 4494 8600), while enjoying a refreshing cardamom karak. Later that evening, I called my friend to join me for a walk on the corniche. The views were magnificent. And as I stood overlooking the towers of Doha city, lit in colourful hues, I could die of happiness. DAY 3: ROOM SERVICE AND SUPER SALES On my final day in Doha, I woke up early, had my breakfast, and headed to the open-air pool for a quick swim before indulging in a Spa Fusion treatment, which combined five different massaging techniques, including Thai, Balinese, and Shiatsu. Fans of Asian healings will totally love this. I certainly did. But, I needed more shopping. So before heading to the airport, I made a quick visit to EZDAN MALL (+974 7790 4003; EZDANHOLDING. QA) for one last sale and splurge before my flight. My weekend in Doha was a beautiful journey, and it’s now one of the cities I’d love to keep revisiting over and over again. Its culture, its people, shopping, and its modern-yet-traditional atmosphere are simply splendid. Until next time, Doha. —salim@timesofoman.com

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How

BEAUTY QUIZ

-Oriented

Are You? 1

TAKE A QUICK LOOK AT YOUR NAILS (HANDS AND FEET). HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE THEM?

(A) Good you asked. I love showing off my mani-pedi. (B) No polish on but perfectly shaped. I like to let my nails breathe and they still look great. (C) It’s a little chipped on the sides and I could use another coat…but I still love the colour so I decided to keep it on. (D) Let’s look at ﬂowers instead, shall we?

(A) Styled by a professional of course. (B) Depends on the occasion. I can do multiple styles on my own and I like trying new looks. (C) Down, bun or ponytail. What else options do we have? (D) Wild and free. My hair has a mind of its own.

WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON ADVISING PEOPLE ON FASHION?

(A) The world has bigger problems. Seriously? (B) I could advice. But then my friends usually just go ahead and do their thing. (I wonder why they even ask.) (C) I love talking fashion. I help my friends pick up stuff. It’s fun. (D) I charge…or my fashion advice remains a secret.

(A) All designer stuff, of course. (B) Only brands which are well-known for quality products. (C) Anything that looks amazing on me...I don’t care so much for brands. (D) I dislike shopping; but if I must…whatever that’s easiest to reach out for.

YOU ARE ONE OF THE BRIDESMAIDS AT YOUR BEST FRIEND’S WEDDING. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR LEVEL OF PATIENCE AT THE BEAUTY SALON?

(A) I could be here all day and tomorrow. It is therapeutic. (B) I’ll be forced to work my schedule so I don’t have to particularly hurry them; but I’m willing to take out that time. (C) Makeup or hair? Pick one. (D) Skip it totally. My best friend loves me.

YOU’VE BEEN CLEANING AND REALISE YOU HAVE TO RUSH OUT TO GET SOMETHING FROM THE NEIGHBOURHOOD STORE. YOU ARE BOUND TO RUN INTO PEOPLE YOU KNOW. YOU...

WHEN CONSIDERING SHOPPING, YOU OPT FOR:

HOW MUCH MAKEUP DO YOU WEAR ON AN AVERAGE DAY TO WORK?

(A) Everything in the makeup bag. Primer, foundation, compact, blush, lip-liner, lipstick, mascara, eyeliner …and oh yeah …a little gloss for the ﬁnishing touch. (B) Being presentable is the key to success. So I ensure I’ve got the basics right. (C) Powder. It’s a tradition. That counts, right? (D) I’ve brushed my teeth. My hair is sporting the roll-out-of-bed style. Problem?

YOU HAVE A PARTY OVER THE WEEKEND. WHEN DO YOU START PLANNING YOUR WARDROBE?

(A) Rush out and get something from the neighbourhood store (humming – ‘you’re amazing just the way you are’). (B) Grab a pretty scarf to drape or a nice jacket on top of your home clothes and run. (C) Change into something fresh, spray on some perfume and get going. (D) Ditch the idea. You refuse to be seen in public in anything less than pure perfection (and that would take a while).

HOW DO YOU USUALLY PREFER YOUR HAIR?

(A) The minute I receive the invitation; and that better be a week in advance. (B) Once I get home and have time. There is no rush and I know I have some decent stuff I haven’t worn before. (C) The evening of the party. I had stuff to do, c’mon! (D) Grab something nice and get ready in the car. Besides my best friend would loan me something if I turned up looking disastrous.

STORY ANTARA BOSE

DO YOU WORK OUT/FOLLOW HEALTHY EATING?

(A) No. Let’s move on. (B) I go for a walk whenever I think I’ve overeaten. (C) Yes, 3-4 times of intensive workout per week and a healthy diet. (D) It’s my religion. My diet allows me a single cheat day a month.

YOU’VE TAKEN THAT BOLD STEP AND DECIDED TO EXPERIMENT WITH YOUR LOOK. THE RESPONSE YOU GET IS:

(A) Why, just why do you even try? (B) Hold on a second … let me ﬁx this a little. There you go. (C) Gosh! You just keep getting better. Beautiful. (D) Absolutely stunning! I am your follower for life. Style me please.

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FOR QUESTION 1 Give yourself 4 points if you answered A, 3 if you answered B, 2 if you answered C, and 1 if you answered D. FOR QUESTION 2 Give yourself 4 points if you answered A, 3 if you answered B, 2 if you answered C, and 1 if you answered D. FOR QUESTION 3 Give yourself 4 points if you answered A, 3 if you answered B, 2 if you answered C, and 1 if you answered D. FOR QUESTION 4 Give yourself 1 point if you answered A, 2 for B, 3 for C, and 4 for D. FOR QUESTION 5 Give yourself 4 points if you answered A, 3 if you answered B, 2 if you answered C, and 1 if you answered D. FOR QUESTION 6 Give yourself 1 point if you answered A, 2 for B, 3 for C, and 4 for D. FOR QUESTION 7 Give yourself 4 points if you answered A, 3 if you answered B, 2 if you answered C, and 1 if you answered D. FOR QUESTION 8 Give yourself 4 points if you answered A, 3 if you answered B, 2 if you answered C, and 1 if you answered D. FOR QUESTION 9 Give yourself 1 point if you answered A, 2 for B, 3 for C, and 4 for D. FOR QUESTION 10 Give yourself 1 point if you answered A, 2 for B, 3 for C, and 4 for D. Add to get your total.

Results:

What Level of Fashionista are You? 16 and below: Well hello there, tomboy. We’re pretty certain you’ve already accepted that you couldn’t care-a-less for style and fashion. You are comfortable with staying as far away as possible when it comes to following fashion trends(let alone sporting them). Your female friends, at desperate times, might urge you to consider giving your personal styling a little more importance, for the sake of society at least; but you believe beauty is what comes from inside. 17 - 22: We can say you are easy-going, fuss-free and sport a very raw attitude that might actually make you fun to be around as you’d probably pay more attention to bigger things than dressing yourself. You don’t have any regrets on your sense of style and neither do you judge others by it. However, you shouldn’t sulk when you don’t make it to the list of fashionistas or the photographer focuses on you more stylish friends. 23 - 28: You are quite fashionable but what makes you different is that you aren’t rigid. You think it is alright to let go sometimes and be in your element. You deﬁnitely know your dos from your don’ts when it comes to styling, but might not always stick to it. Of course, you understand the seriousness of style and try to follow trends. 29 -34: Not only are you very fashionable but also quite balanced. Style is something that comes from within and you can sport it effortlessly. You place a great deal of importance on your personal styling needs but also know when to draw the line. Your unique sense of style is pretty popular and loved by all.You often are more than willingly playing the role of a fashion guru. Antara Bose is a model turned fashion and beauty consultant. A popular blogger, anchor, and voice over artist, she maintains a deep connection with the local fashion industry and is passionate about discovering and celebrating aspiring talent as well as promoting animal rights. For fashion updates with a side of humour and sarcasm, follow Antara on instagram @antarabose and on Facebook (Antara Bose).

35 -40: You are, by all means, extremely style-conscious and you ensure that you maintain a very high-level of supremacy when it comes to your style. Your conﬁdence, knowledge, and devotion to maintaining a ﬂawless style makes you a trendsetter. Though you are on many occasions perceived to be a little bit of a narcissist, it is purely your devotion to the fashion world and demands of the industry that make you who you are. Your sense of style is more than often admired and applauded. You make your presence felt with your elite sense of style. —HiWeekend@timesofoman.com

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BINGE ON A BUDGE T

Bombay Chinese Centre Money is not the most freely available of resources right now, and here at Hi, we want to make sure you get the most bang for your buck when it comes to eating out. Binge on a Budget takes you to the best eateries in Muscat where you can get a great, super-ﬁlling meal for two, for OMR3 or less. Bon Appetit. —gautam@timesofoman.com

STORY GAUTAM VISWANATHAN • PHOTOS SALIM AL AFIFI

THE PLACE You might not know it by name, but you’ve certainly seen this little hole-in-thewall joint in Ruwi. Located right next to Fathima Supermarket, this stall serves up a cornucopia of snacks. While they do have a few tables setup, Bombay Chinese Centre is more often than not frequented by those who’re looking to take away some of their delicious treats which range from crispy samosas and crunchy falafel to more ﬁlling Indian and Chinese fare.

SIGNATURE DISH Where do I begin? Frequented by people from all walks of life, Bombay Chinese is best known for their samosas. The little ones only cost 100 baisa for a plate of four, while the larger, more traditionally Indian ones ﬁlled with diced potatoes and spices, only set you back 50 baisa apiece. Then there’s the lentil doughnuts and idlis — savoury Indian rice cakes — which are served with a side of coconut chutney, also sold for under 100 baisa. A very popular breakfast item, don’t be surprised to see people milling around Bombay Chinese Centre at 7am in search of a cheap and delicious morning meal for less than OMR1.

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ALSO TRY Their sandwiches are truly delectable. My favourite is the omelette sandwich (great after a workout), which only sets you back 200 baisa a pop (250 baisa with Oman chips). Stuffed with salad (if you want) and a slathering of homemade green chutney, all of their ﬁlling sandwiches and served between two warm, toasty buns for a very ﬁlling meal-on-the-go. Pro tip: They’ll put anything in bread, you just have to ask.

ADD-ONS The good folks at Bombay Chinese Centre also have a variety of fresh juices and are one of the few places in Oman serving sugarcane juice. While it might be a tad steep at 500 baisa a glass, sugarcane juice infusioned with ginger and a dash of lime, is amazingly refreshing and a great counterpoint to the spicy snacks.

FIND THEM Bombay Chinese Centre is on Al Noor Street in Ruwi, next to Fathima Supermarket, opposite the Dar Al Atta’a building. They’ll do home delivery to some areas as well. Call: + 968 9865 2323

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Plan a Perfect Beach Barbecue Everyone enjoys the fresh salt air and wide blue skies of a beachside picnic, and some coastal parks make it easy with their built in tables and facilities. Here’s our guide to planning an easy alfresco meal this weekend. — HiWeekend@timesofoman.com STORY HI EDITORS

W H AT TO M A K E MISHKAK This classic Omani roadside and beachside food is a delicious local addition to your casual feast. Ingredients 1/2 kg mutton meat (you can alternatively use beef ) 2-4 garlic cloves 1-2 green peppers, chopped 1/2-1 onion, chopped African chilli (optional) Salt, to taste Lemon, to taste Yoghurt (optional) Tamarind sauce Flatbread, for serving (No measures, everything is according to taste) Preparation 1. Cut the meat into cubes or bite-size portions, and then rinse them. 2. Take a few garlic cloves, sliced green pepper, and a chopped onion, put the ingredients in a blender and blend. (Add African chilli for a spicy taste) 3. Pour the mixture over the rinsed meat and add salt, lemon or lemon juice, and tamarind. Mix all the ingredients together with the meat and let it marinate for a full day in the fridge (or at least a

couple of hours before barbecuing). You can add yoghurt into the marinade to soften the meat (optional). 5. When grilling, brush the meat with tamarind sauce as it gets cooked, and then serve it with more tamarind sauce drizzled overtop. 6. Serve with chapatti or other ﬂatbread. TANDOORI CHICKEN Flavourful, easy-to-eat, and a snap to make ahead of time, this is a perfect picnic fare. Ingredients 1 kg chicken drumsticks For Marination 1 cup yoghurt 2-3 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced 2-3teaspoon fresh garlic, minced 1teaspoon salt 2 teaspoon freshly ground cumin powder 3teaspoon Indian garam masala 1 teaspoon hot chilli powder 1tablespoon lemon juice 2teaspoon chaat masala 2-3 pinches of tandoori food colour Onion, sliced into rings, for serving

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WH ERE TO P IC N IC Shatti Al Qurum Beach Amenities: Picnic tables and covered pergolas Location: Just down the road from Oasis by the Sea and Jawharat Al Shatti, there is a wide gravel lot with plenty of parking. Hidden Shatti Beach Amenities: Manicured grass lawn, picnic tables, pergolas Location: Beside Marina Café and behind the Bangladesh Embassy, near Grand Hyatt Kalbuh Park Amenities: Grassy lawns, plenty of parking, a kids’ playground, and shaded areas Location: Just past Mutrah Souq and Riyam Park, before the Gate Museum *Note that the park is only open after 4pm during the week, but is open from 9am-12midnight on weekends

W H AT TO B R I N G PRE-MADE SALADS It’s always great to have a foil to the bread and meat extravaganza on offer at a picnic, and Lulu Hypermarket has some great salads ready-made and ready to go at their deli counter, with portions that are both affordable and generous. The Russian salad, dotted with carrots, green beans, olives, a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds, diced apples, and snow peas on a mayonnaise base is a ﬁrm favourite, and only costs OMR 1.2 per kilo. While their beansprout salad is a little bit more expensive at OMR 2.7 a kilo, it is a wonderful addition to the heavier foods with its nutty combination of sprouts, shredded carrots, diced tomatoes, and onions. SUPPLIES • For Barbecuing: coal (make sure its dry), grill, lighter/match stick, paper/cardboard (for burning and for fanning), kerosene. • For Drinking and Washing: Along with juice or soft drinks, be sure to carry extra bottles of water as you may want to use them for both drinking and hand washing. • Paper Goods: Disposable plates, disposable cups, and disposable spoons are a must, along with paper towels or tissue. Be sure to also bring along plastic bags to carry out your garbage. • Munchies: You will need wafers, chips, and biscuits to keep you going whilst you try to lit up the barbecue pit, which (if you’re an amateur like some of us), could take a while. Be prepared with some Pringles and Chips Oman.

Lemon slices, for serving Fresh coriander leaves for serving Preparation 1. Wash the chicken well and keep it aside. 2. For the marination blend yoghurt to a smooth paste and add all the other ingredients to it. 3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the mixture and mix well. Marinate overnight or for 8-10 hours minimum. 4. Place the chicken drumsticks on a metal rack and barbecue over hot charcoal for about 15 minutes per side. 5. Once brown and fully cooked, serve garnished with onion rings, lemon, and fresh coriander leaves. HOMEMADE HUMMUS This party favourite is great for munching on while the meats are grilling. Serve with cut veggies or pita chips. Ingredients 425g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 to 4 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice 5 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablsespoon olive oil, for garnish Sliced olives, for garnish Pita bread, toasted pita, cut vegetables (like cucumber and celery), for serving

1 teaspoon vanilla 4 eggs 24-30 round cookies, such as Oreos or vanilla wafers 24-30 muffin tin liners Fresh berries for serving, if desired

INDIVIDUAL MINI-CHEESECAKES Leave the forks and knives at home with these easy-to-eat minicheesecakes.

Instructions 1. Pre-heat the oven to 180 degrees C (you may have to adjust according to your oven, I turned mine up to 200C for the second batch). 2. Beat softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar and vanilla until smooth (feel free to taste at this point to check for sweetness. Add another 1/4 cup of sugar if desired). Whisk eggs and then mix them into cheese mixture. 3. Line a muffin tin with muffin paper and place one cookie in each paper liner. Feel free to use a variety of cookies. Pour cheese batter over top of the cookie until the liner is 3/4 of the way full. 4. Bake mini-cheesecakes for 25-35 minutes or until the centres are almost ﬁrm. Remove and let cool on the countertop for an hour, then refrigerate for a couple hours to completely ﬁrm. Serve as they are or topped with fresh berries.

Ingredients 4 200g packages of cream cheese 1/2 cup-3/4 cup sugar (depending on your taste)

Are you a BBQ master? Where is your favourite place in Oman to grill-out? What do like to cook? Tell us about it in the story comments on Facebook @HiWeekly

Preparation 1. Add the chickpeas, 2 tablespoons of water, the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a blender. Process until smooth and creamy. If needed, add additional water to thin out the hummus. 2. Store covered in the refrigerator. You can also add a lot of variations to the hummus by stiring in other vegetables and herbs, like avocado, jalapeno, and coriander. 3. To serve, drizzle with olive oil and add sliced olives for garnish and offer with fresh cut veggies, chips, or bread.

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BEYOND THE AIRPORT A GUIDE TO SEEB STORY SALIM AL AFIFI

ILLUSTRATION GERI B. SONNY

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“WHAT LIES BEYOND MUSCAT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?” Time and again residents of Muscat have pondered on this question. Whether it is about the cafes for coffee breaks, restaurants for lunches and dinners, or parks for evening walks; for those living in the heart of Muscat, the lifestyle and culture in Seeb and its neighbouring areas have remained obscure. Seeb has always been known for its serenity that surrounds its neighbourhood, but in the last few years it has also grown in popularity with the opening up of several malls, eateries, and shopping arcades, thus making it the hub of activities. From entertainment, fine dining, and high-end fashion stores to a vibrant nightlife culture, Seeb has some real hidden gems one could ever think of. People living in Seeb and its adjoining areas, who earlier had to drive all the way to Qurum and Al Khuwair for their weekend entertainment, now has everything within arm’s reach. While the Muscat City Centre continues to be the main attraction, there are several other specialty shops scattered around the neighbourhood of Seeb. Here’s a quick guide packed with all the necessary information on where to eat, what to do, where to shop, and what to explore in this beautiful coastal town of Oman.

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EAT

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What I like to do most in Seeb is to eat as they have loads of places where you can grab a quick bite, offering you cafeteria style service, as well as restaurants with nice ambiance. You can ﬁnd almost any cuisine here; Indian, Turkish, and Arabian, you just name it. They are affordable too. Here are some of my favourite eating places in Seeb.

OTHER ‘NOT TO MISS’ PLACES ITALIAN BARISTA CAFE Why: It’s a restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine including pizzas, pastas, and shrimps, and their portions and prices are good. You can order a couple of sliders or a full burger for OMR2.500 Almouj Street, Al Mawaleh North, Seeb +968 2418 8891 PASSION CAFE Why: It is one of the most talked about home-grown burger joints in town. It offers some of the largest burger pattice you’ll ever have and they’re juicy, too. Also, they have got cool, colourful drinks.

AFRICA RESTAURANT AND C O F F E E SHOP

Al Khoudh, Seeb +968 9460 0633

(CUISINE: ZANZIBARI, OMANI) This is an absolute gem of a place. Opened 17 years ago in Al Hail, nearby Almouj, it is a heaven for those who have a taste for Zanzibari delicacies. The decor is simple yet stylish, and the food is to die for. They serve cafeteria style, where there’s a counter with food ranging from stews and fragrant rices, to popular Zanzibari dishes and snacks, and they also have a dining area. If you’re a novice in Zanzibari cuisine, I truly recommend this place as it will give you an ultimate taste of what Omani-Zanzibari food taste like. Make sure to try their Kisamvu, a spinachbased dish made with coconut, or sometimes peanut butter; or Maharagi, a dish made with kidney beans, coconut, and cooked in a tomato sauce, and best eaten with chapati ﬂatbread. There’s no doubt that coconut and palm oil lovers will have a feast-of-the-year at this place. The restaurant gets extremely packed during lunch hours and their prices are very reasonable. They also have a branch in Al Ghubra. Al Hail North, Seeb +968 9945 9012; +968 2454 4016 Opening Hours: 11am-11pm

GERMAN DON ER K EBAB ( C U I SI N E: T U R KI SH , GER M AN) This comes second in my list of the best munching places in Seeb. I found this fast food restaurant at Muscat City Centre’s food court, and I’ve become a regular since then. German Doner Kebab is a fusion restaurant that offers the original form of Turkish shawarma, which is called doner kebab, a ground beef marinated, put on spike, roasted to perfection, and sliced to serve. It has a leaf-like form when sliced. Shawarma lovers will obviously dig this, so I suggest you put your Turkish shawarma on hold this weekend and head to this joint. They can serve you the meat in a sandwich, waffle-like bread, and a meaty box with fries and sauces. If you have decided to give it a try, take the Durum Doner with extra meat and have a meaty escapade. Muscat City Centre, Al Mawaleh, Seeb +968 2455 8799 Opening Hours: 10am-10pm

THE YAS AVENUE Why: This place is quite interesting as it’s one big space, offering more than 150 dishes in a number of restaurants that serve a variety of international cuisines, including Western and Italian. They also have an ice-cream parlour and a juice place. It has affordable prices and vibrant, edgy ambiance. Al Khoudh, Seeb (at Al Maha Petrol Pump) +968 2200 9278; +968 9497 9495 AL HILAL AL TURKEY Why: This Turkish restaurant is one of the best in town, it’s the Old Turkish of Seeb in popularity, offering shawarma sandwiches, mixed grills, pies, and kebabs. If you want to taste true Turkish doner kebab shawarma, then this is the place. It has the best beef shawarma you’ll ever have in town, literally. It’s made of ground beef, and it’s juicy, moist, and full of meaty ﬂavours. Super inexpensive. Al Khoudh Al Tijariyah Street, Al Khoud, Seeb +968 9268 6557 GRAND FISH MARKET Why: This is dedicated to seafood lovers. The restaurant is a one-stop-shop for everything seafood, from shrimps, to lobsters, and everything in between. The prices are relatively affordable, and I would recommend you try the lobster; good portion, succulent taste. Al Mawaleh, Seeb (Nearby Muscat City Centre) +968 9519 9995 AL MAIDA AL ARABIA Why: Because it’s Yemeni. Yemenis are known for their fragrant Mandi rice, which is served with your choice of protein, and the best restaurant happens to be in Al Mawaleh. The best way to enjoy Mandi is to go with friends, where they’ll welcome you in a traditional seating area and serve you one massive plate full of Yemeni goodness. You wouldn’t want to miss the beef mandi, it’s everything. Al Mawaleh, Seeb (opposite Sultan Centre) +968 2454 2453 ALMOUJ GOLF ACADEMY RESTAURANT AND THE WALK Why: Sometimes you’d feel like treating yourself with a brunch at a classy area, or an afternoon tea amid green spaces. Almouj Golf has its own restaurant that serves fantastic brunch, and for those fancying a city-inspired dinner, they can hit the road to The Walk at Almouj, where they have Shakespeare & Co, Nando’s, B+F Roadside Diner, More Cafe, and Shang Thai among others.

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PLACES TO

SH OP

SEEB SO U Q Seeb souq is one of the most celebrated shopping destinations in Muscat. The souq is located at the edge of Muscat capital, nearby the beach, where you can find a variety of little shops selling clothes, perfumes, and shoes among other things. It has a famous traditional souq that’s similar to a farmer’s market, where you’ll find fresh produce, all kinds of spices, and of course fish and edible sea creatures. Inside the sprawling souq, you’ll realise that it’s divided into two parts, one offering perfume brands such as Ajmal and Rasasi, banks, tailors, and fashion boutiques, and the other side is kept for more heavy duty items, such as wooden crafts and a few garages. Seeb Opening Hours: Most shops open at 10am to 10pm, traditional souq is best visited at 9am.

OTHER ‘NOT TO MISS’ PLACES: Shopping in Seeb is just as fancy as Qurum, but it also has traditional markets, boutiques, and small specialty shops. Let’s explore some of the popular shopping destinations beyond the airport.

SEEB MALL Why: It has countless shops and boutiques selling women dresses, gowns, and a variety of accessories and shoes. Prices vary, but I’m sure you’ll ﬁnd something interesting. Seeb Souq, Seeb +968 9821 7204 Opening Hours: 8:30am–1:30pm, 4:30pm–10:30pm MUSCAT CITY CENTRE AND MARKAZ AL BAHJA Why: These two are quite obvious, as they were the only major shopping malls in Muscat before Muscat Grand Mall opened in Bousher. Both have international brands and department stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues such as cinemas, bowling centres, and kids’ zones.

GOLDEN DRAGON MART AN D C H I NA M ALL Why: These two malls are not in Seeb, but they are right outside the city, situated on the highway of Barka. They both have a variety of items imported from China, from tiles and marbles, to curtains and sheets, to garments and accessories. If you plan to visit these malls, you better be on the move since morning, and then start with China Mall, which is closer to Muscat. Then you can go ahead and take a turn back to Golden Dragon. Barka, Muscat Golden Dragon +968 2688 3849; China Mall +968 9158 9288 Opening Hours: 10am to 10pm

Muscat City Centre, Al Mawaleh, Seeb +968 2455 8799 Markaz Al Bahja, Al Mawaleh, Seeb + 968 2454 0200 Opening Hours: 10am-10pm ( for both) SOUQ BIN RASHID Why: This is a newly opened shopping block. It hosts mostly local brands and boutiques selling fashionable items, makeup, and offer cool facilities such photography and professional ﬂorist services. Al Mabela South, Seeb Opening Hours: 9am-1pm, 4pm-10pm AL RAWDA BOULEVARD Why: This is a new addition in Mawaleh. It’s a beautifully designed boulevard, which has a number of shops and boutiques that are quite interesting. There’s Zeitoun Restaurant and Cake Gallery among others. And, Muscat Gymnastics kids gym, Le Petit Paris Cafe and Bakery, and Holiday Inn Al Seeb Hotel are within a walking distance. Al Mawaleh South, Seeb

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VI S IT Seeb and its neighbouring areas have lots on offer for those who love to explore new places and visit historic landmarks. The city has something for everyone, those who like to drive off-roads or the ones who want to enjoy family lunch at a garden.

NASEEM GARDEN

AL SAHWA PARK

This park is located in Barka, about 30 kilometres from Muscat International Airport, and it was opened to herald the 15th National Day celebrations in 1985. The park has beautiful Japanese garden, designated areas for popular recreational activities such as tennis and volleyball, and a children’s park.

This park is situated at the centre of Seeb, just after the airport, and it one of the most popular ones locals enjoy picnicking in. The garden has massive spaces covered in greenery, with areas for recreational fun and family gatherings. It is also a hotspot for jogging enthusiasts, as it has a nice pathway. Inside the park you’ll ﬁnd family rest areas, six Islamic gardens of geometric shapes, a mosque and coffee shops.

Barka, Oman Visiting Hours: 4pm–11pm; Weekends: 4pm – 12 midnight

Al Mawaleh, Seeb Visiting Hours: 6pm – 12 midnight; Weekends: 9am –12 midnight

OTHER ‘NOT TO MISS’ PLACES:

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AMOUAGE PERFUMERY FACTORY Why: Get inside the factory that makes one of the most expensive perfumes in the world, and trust me, their perfumes may be expensive, but they are worth every penny. My personal favourites are Jubilation, for the masculine leather scent, and Lyric for its sensual rose. Al Mawaleh, Seeb +968 2453 4800 amouage.com AN NAMAN ZOO Why: Do you know that there’s a zoo 30 kilometres away from the airport? They have got some beautiful birds and a variety of animals, too. A great place to take your children on a weekend.

SULTAN TAIMUR BIN FAISAL MOSQUE

Barka, Oman +968 9932 2334 Visiting Hours: 9am–9pm

The mosque is a new addition from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said to his list of royal mosques. It’s majestic in size, and fascinating in architecture. It was inspired by the 16th century design with domes decorated with ﬂoral and Islamic art. The grand mosque is open for everyone, including non-muslims who’d like to get a glimpse inside this beauteous structured place of worship. The visit is free of charge.

BAIT NUA’MAN (BAIT NA’AMAN) Why: This vintage castle was built ages ago by Imam Bil Arab bin Sultan and his brother. It was made for the purpose of being a meeting place for armies and travellers. It was restored in 1992 for tourists to explore its beauty, inside and out.

Al Mabela North, Seeb Visiting Hours: 8am to 11am, Saturday to Thursday

Barka, Oman Visiting Hours: Saturday to Wednesday: 9am - 1.30pm

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THINGS

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Seeb is known to be relatively calmer with lesser entertainment options. So what do people do at leisure and during weekends? You would be surprised to know that while there are plenty of recreational activities here, there are some great places to explore too.

TO DO

AT DAY

OTHER ‘NOT TO MISS’ PLACES: AL NAHDA RESORT & SPA Why: Sometimes a little bit of pampering is needed. So heading over to Barka for some me-time is deﬁnitely atop the list of things to do during the day. You can have a fabulous staycation at the resort, where you can swim and enjoy their spa facility that has an extensive list of treatments.

ALMOUJ GOLF Why: For some afternoon golf sessions. The golf course is beautifully laid out, and has a restaurant to munch in after golﬁng.

Barka, Oman +968 2688 3710; +968 9458 2970 alnahdaresort.com

CAMEL EVENTS Why: Who doesn’t like camels? The Oman Camel Racing Federation hosts numerous events in Barka involving camels, from races, to performances, to beauty pageants. You can check their schedule from their office in Azaiba, online or through their Facebook page.

PHOTOS OMANTRIPPER.COM

SEEB COASTAL ROAD Why: It has a long, stretched corniche that starts in Al Hail North, right after Almouj, and goes through the Seeb Souq, all the way to the edge of Seeb town, where the recently revamped Seeb Corniche lies. It’s a great place to chill with friends and family.

WA DI AL KHO U DH This gem of a place is usually overlooked by many locals and unexplored by most tourists. Wadi Al Khoudh is a beautiful wadi situated in the land of Old Al Khoudh (now known as Al Khoudh Village), and it has clear water pools, green outcrops with fascinating rock formations encircling on it. This place is quite ideal for a picnic, as it is quiet and open, and what I discovered on my journey there, is the old residential area of Al Khoudh. It’s another ancient-looking world you shouldn’t miss. It will give you an idea of how old houses used to look like. It’s best accessible through expressway, coming from Qurum, you need to take the Al Khoudh Village exit.

SAWADI AND DAYMANIYAT ISLANDS Why: Sawadi used to be the most talked about beach nearby Muscat, and till this day it hasn’t lost its charms. The area is a best spot for shell collecting, and it’s super close to a number of mini islands. Also, you can do snorkelling and diving, or take a boat to Al Daymaniyat islands.

There’s nothing that get your adrenaline rushing and pumping like a paintball battle. Paintball Oman is the only centre in Muscat offering a fun-ﬁlled shooting session in a 5,000sqm grass-covered area, where both kids and adults can enjoy a friendly battle of colours. The recreational game is all team work, which requires great strategic skills. Some enthusiasts battle it out in a serious competition, and others go just to have a good time with friends. Either way, it’s going to be an experience to remember. The same place offers a more lenient version of the game, known as Lasertag, where two teams battle one another with laser guns. This is a fantastic weekend activity. Go in a group of ten. Game equipment will be provided. Al Hail South, Seeb +968 9850 0777; +968 2454 4007 paintballoman.com

Azaiba, Muscat (Office), +968 2449 0494 facebook.com/OmanCamel BULLFIGHTING Why: It’s intense, bloodless, and fun for the family. The bullﬁghting is a traditional Omani game that’s been around for ages, and it’s performed every other Friday in various locations around the Sultanate. You can catch a ﬁght at Barka’s bullring. Barka, Oman

ALMOUJ MARINA Why: Almouj has one of the most wellstructured marinas the country. Besides, it’s adjacent to The Walk, where you can enjoy a bite after you ﬁnish exploring the coast of Muscat in your yacht with Oman Sail’s Charter day trips.

OMAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION Why: It’s the only authentic place where car enthusiasts and racers meet and have a good time. The area has karting zone, rally venue, and drifting arena among other things, and soon to add a shooting range activity.

Charter at Oman Sail, Almouj Marina, Al Hail North, +968 2418 1400 seaoman.com

Airport Heights, Seeb, +968 2451 0239 Omanauto.org

THINGS

PA I NT BALL O MAN

18th November Street, Muscat +968 2200 5990, almoujgolf.com

TO DO A T N AI TG HDTA Y Nightlife scene in this part of Oman is somewhat nonexistent, with only few places to have a good time. Residents of Seeb have their own way of enjoying the evenings.

CAMPFIRE IN AL KHOUDH Why: The street is quite long, with empty lands on each side, making it a perfect spot for a campﬁre. Many locals bring out their cool boxes full of sodas, a bucket load of mishkak and ribs, and a teapot for a hot after feasting treat. Al Khoudh Street, Seeb (Same street that leads to SQU) ON THE ROCKS Why: This place is full of youthful, vibrant energy and loud music, and it attracts a diverse crowd. With international DJs spinning their records, and a menu of interesting bubbly sips, On The Rocks is deﬁnitely a hot night spot. It’s located adjacent to Golden Tulip Seeb Hotel. Golden Tulip Seeb Hotel, Muscat +968 9798 3333

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Muscat Arts & Films presented the CD launch of ‘Rajageetham’ by O. P. Jayaraj, a well-known poet and lyricist in Muscat. The event was held at Crystal Suites in Wadi Kabir. Photos by Purushuthoman K.

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Beaconhouse School held their annual sports day.

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Al Athnain Co LLC completed 25 years of service.

Muscat Gujarati Samaj of Indian Social Club Oman recently organised ‘Patang Mahotsav’ or kite ﬂying festival held at the InterContinental Beach, Qurum.

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Burjeel Hospital held Masterclass, a novel concept to provide high quality training updates in various ďŹ elds of medicine.

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Apollo Hospital Muscat introduced two super specialty clinics in the Sultanate.

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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

4 9

4 6

7 5 2

5 8

2 6

9 3

Level | Moderate

5 1 9

8 2

1 6 7

Level | Difficult

7 5

4 8

4 1

7 6

9 1 9 8

PLAY AND WIN 1

3 7

2 8

SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION OF OUR POST ON FACEBOOK. COM/HIWEEKLY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN VOUCHERS FROM PIZZA MUSCAT.

5 4

SOLUTIONS & WINNERS POSTED EVERY SUNDAY.