Hi weekly january 5 2017

OMAN’S LARGEST CIRCULATED WEEKLY — 46,760 COPIES

VOL 10 ISSUE 52 / JANUARY 5, 2017

Escaping the Mundane in a Maserati Levante PG 10

THIS WEEK IN OMAN

TRAIN FOR A MARATHON

MEET UP AT THE MARKET

TASTE A NEW FLAVOUR

Whether you plan to run in the annual Muscat Marathon or not, training for it is a great way to start the year.

PAGE 14

Buy fresh local veggies, eat artisan delicacies, and have an overall fabulous Saturday at Oman’s first farmers’ market.

PAGE 22

Who doesn’t love the sweet and tangy combination of mango and lime? Go try a special menu dedicated to the combo.

PAGE 16

04

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

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 Mehdi Taghavi 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

HI WEEKLY

THE WEEKEND LINEUP

06

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

05

THURSDAY 10:00am Get the Baby Basics If you’re a new mum or mom-to-be, then this weekend workshop might be just what you are looking for. The comprehensive session will go over everything from weaning to teething, allergies to meal planning, to help new mothers learn the basics of caring for a newborn. OMR10.

Nine Oman, Al Mouj +968 2428 8888 Nine.om

Your calendar of the hottest events happening in Muscat this weekend

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

06

FRIDAY 1:00pm Learn to Strut your Stuff If you are interested in modelling, then enrol yourself in this aspiring cover girl programme to learn tips and techniques for runway walks and photoshots. Participants will also have the chance to get involved in numerous fashion shows in the upcoming year.

Vantage International Mumtaz Residence +968 9343 5226

10:00am Kart to the Max UAE’s national karting championship, Rotax Max Challenge’s Round 6, is all set to take place in Oman. Watch drivers as young as five take to the track, along with some very experienced drivers showing off their skills behind the wheel. Entry is free.

Muscat Karting Speedway Oman Automobile Association +968 9659 0300 omanauto.org

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

07

SATURDAY 8:00am Get Up the Hill This is the perfect time of year to spend a few weekend hours in the mountains learning rock climbing basics and climbing skills. Gear, water, and an expert instructor are included, just bring your trainers, sunscreen, and lunch for this adventure workshop. Pre-registration required, OMR41 per person.

Khubrah Canyon (1 hour from Muscat) +968 2469 2892 twenty3extreme.com

9:00am Have a Lazy Beach Day Spend a day enjoying the cool ocean breeze and the warm January sun at the Capital City Yacht Club in Sidab. Access to the private beach, umbrella-shaded picnic tables, and lounges, is available for OMR3 per person and food is available to order on-site.

Capital Area Yacht Club Sidab, Muscat (near Marina Bandar Al Rowdha) +968 2473 7712 Facebook: Capital Area Yacht Club (CAYC)

PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED

077

8 08

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

THE MAN IN THE HIGH CASTLE WITH GAUTAM BHARGAV VISWANATHAN

FIVE TO TRY

FASHION BOUTIQUES

MINI’S BOUTIQUE If you fancy dresses in vibrant colours, edgy ensembles, eccentric accessories, and unique tableware, then head to Mini’s Boutique in Al Hail.

Mini’s Boutique North Al Hail (Nearby Almouj Petrol Station) +968 9111 0028 Instagram: @minisboutique

BOUTIQUE MUSCAT Boutique Muscat is one of the most popular boutiques in town, famed for hosting acclaimed designers, offering both trendy kaftans and modern abayas, and importing a rotating collection of international fashion, high-end tableware, and quirky gift items.

Boutique Muscat The Walk, Almouj, Al Hail North +968 9569 2280 Instagram: @boutiquemuscat

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2016

A

lthough the world’s biggest conflict ended more than 70 years ago, the World War II remains a fascinating subject, one which has been pored-over again and again, with each examination of the war providing answers, and raising more questions as to the how and why of this conflict.

One hypothetical query that has been batted around for years asks what would have happened if Adolf Hitler had won the World War II? While there is no way of knowing what might have been (and thank goodness for it, in this case), Amazon’s original series The Man in the High Castle attempts to imagine the unimaginable, portraying what life might have been like if Germany, Italy, and Japan had emerged victorious in 1945.

In this imagined world, following Germany’s victory in Europe and the subsequent obliteration of Washington DC by nuclear strike, the Nazis collaborated with the Japanese to split the United States into three segments. The Japanese Pacific States are ruled from San Francisco, while New York is the capital of the Greater Nazi Reich. Into this dystopia is thrust Juliana Crain, the protagonist of the story who is played by Alexa Davalos (she portrayed Andromeda in Clash of the Titans). She and her boyfriend Frank Frink (Rupert Evans of Crime and Punishment and Hellboy) live an outwardly contented life in San Francisco.

Juliana becomes a master of the Japanese martial art, Aikido, while Frank works in a factory creating reproductions of antiques for Japanese customers. At every turn the pair are reminded that they are inferior to their conquerors, from the sneering salutations of government bureaucrats to the brutal treatment of Americans by the Kempeitai, the Japanese Military Police.

Assimilation into the Axis powers is as inescapable as it is inevitable. School-going students in German-occupied America recite a heavily modified Pledge of Allegiance which honours Adolf Hitler and culminates in a Nazi salute. And that’s just the beginning of the cultural appropriation. Public monuments and works of art that featured the American Eagle, are replaced by the Nazi equivalent of the bird

099

of prey. But underneath the skein of order and discipline, resistance is brewing.

Juliana and Frank are thrust into the resistance when her half-sister is shot dead carrying a package to neutral Canon City, a thin strip of land between both Axis states that is all that remains of America as it was once known.

The package she had been carrying contained a film documenting an alternate history in which the Allies won the war and put an end to fascism across the world. As Juliana watches it, she feels compelled to get the film into the hands of the leader of the resistance, a shadowy figure known only as “the Man in the High Castle”.

A far-from-easy task in a land where all communications are heavily monitored and a manhunt for anyone in the resistance is being spearheaded by the ruthless Obergruppenfuhrer John Smith (Rufus Sewell from The Legend of Zorro, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter and Gods of Egypt), the slightest misstep could result in being shot dead in front of a firing squad, or worse still, incarcerated and slowly tortured.

The Man in the High Castle is an interesting look back at a tumultuous time in history, and the disasters that could have been, but it is also just a great story of good versus evil that makes for thrilling television.

For the interesting premise alone, it is definitely worth a watch this weekend.

—gautam@timesofoman.com

The Short and Skinny Name: The Man in the High Castle Type: Television Series Genre: Alternate History, Sci-fi, Thriller Producers: Amazon Studios What it’s about: What would’ve happened if the Axis had won the war, and fascism spread throughout the world.

Runtime: 60 minutes Starring: Alexa Davalos, Rufus Sewell, Rupert Evans, Luke Kleintank, DJ Qualls, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Brennan Brown, Callum Rennie, Bella Heathcote IMDB Rating: 8.0/10 Where to download? Amazon Prime

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

TITLI FASHION Titli is an Omani boutique in Al Khoudh that’s known for embracing local talent and displaying the works of creative fashionistas in town, from hand-painted and illustrated shoes, to edgy men’s mussars, to colourful dresses and casual apparel. It’s a one-stop-shop for both sexes.

Titli Fashion Al Khoudh, Seeb +968 9144 0804 Instagram: @titli_fashion

LALEN Head to this menswear wonderland to explore their massive collection of mod-ish casual fashion, semi-formal ensembles, hip accessories, shoes, and boots. The brand has two other stores dedicated to women and children.

Lalen Souq bin Rashid, Al Ma’abela, Seeb +968 9733 3321 Instagram: @lalen.style

KHALIJIA BOUTIQUE For modern-traditional Omani attire, Khalijia Boutique is the place to be. Offering some of the most elegant and fashionable pieces for the new Omani woman, they also have a wide selection of casual dresses inspired by the fashion of Arabian women.

Khalijia Boutique Al Arjan compound, South Al Hail (Near Seeb Stadium) +968 9962 0901 Instagram: @khalijiaboutique

10

HI WEEKLY

R

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

A D T ES T ED

A JOURNEY TO DU IN THE

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

11

NES BY AL NADHA MASERATI LEVANTE STORY FELICIA CAMPBELL • PHOTOGRAPHY MEHDI TAGHAVI

ften the journey is part of the experience when going for a weekend escape, I expected this would be the case when I agreed to take the new Maserati Levante for a spin. As the first sport utility vehicle in the prestigious sports car brand’s 100-year history, I was a little more than curious to see what it could do. But, you don’t take a Maserati just anywhere. I wanted to find a place that had the same kind of exclusive feel, but with a few twists and turns along the way.

With that in mind, my husband and I settled on the Dunes by Al Nahda Resort in Wadi Al Abiyad outside of Barka. The remote resort is actually only about an hour from Muscat, but set among the dunes past a stretch of unfinished freeway, it could be considered remote.

The Levante was built with the mission of being “100% Maserati, 100% SUV”. To this end, the vehicle was designed with four corner air springs providing five dynamic ride levels — two sport, two off-road, and normal. To be clear, these modes are not merely torque distribution or a change in sound, the entire suspension is raised or lowered when in these modes to offer either higher ground clearance off-road, or low-profile, aerodynamic height for sport mode. It was an absolute trip feeling the

entire height of the vehicle adjust for the terrain. As we set-off on the expressway towards Barka, I was eager to see how sporty this SUV could be. The moment I switched to sport mode, the exhaust system opened with a ferocious growl. With a beastly road, we rocketed down the road with that thrown-back-inyour-seat feeling one would only expect from a true sports car.

The handling was tight, offering perfect control, even at hairraising speeds. At no time did I feel like I was driving an SUV, it was 100% Maserati, indeed.

However, it is important to note that driving a car like this one is not all about performance, it is about the prestige. Running your hand across the supple white leather of the steering wheel, the iconic Maserati logo glinting in the sunlight streaming through your panoramic sunroof, I assure you that you will feel like a boss.

The smooth lines of the dash and the premium wood trim finishes are simply beautiful to look at. They tell you, “Yeah, you’ve made it.” I think that feeling of owning something special is as big a part of buying a Maserati as the incredible fun of driving it.

So, on-road, this sleek and spacious machine was living up to its name. But, we were about to run into some adventure. The resort offers to pick guests up or lead them from their sister property, the easy to find Al Nahda Resort in Barka, and they

12

HI WEEKLY

THE WHITE DESERT OASIS DUNES BY AL NAHDA

Wadi Al Abiyad Sands, Barka stay@dunesbyalnahda.com +968 9723 5700 dunesbyalnahda.com Autumn Retreat Special OMR120 per night for luxury tent with breakfast and dinner for two (up to two children under 12 included), plus free airport pickup for non-residents or free local resident pick up from Muscat or Barka regions.

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

13

THE DREAM CAR MASERATI LEVANTE

• Engine: 3 litre V6 Twin-Turbo petrol engine (350hp/430hp) • Transmission: 8-speed automatic gearbox with integrated Start & Stop System • “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive system • 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds • Top speed of 264km/h • Fuel consumption: 10.9 l/100km • Adaptive cruise control • Forward collision warning • Lane departure warning • Powerlift tailgate • Panoramic sunroof • Five dynamic ride levels • Premium finishes, from baby-smooth leather to Ermenegildo Zegna silk Starting Price: OMR33,900 Authorised Oman Dealer: Alfardan Motors LLC Alfardan Building, Meydan Al Azaiba Tel: +968 2452 3014 muscat.ferraridealers.com

also very generously offer free pick-up from the airport or from anywhere in Muscat. But we were determined to find the place ourselves. The route to the Dunes Resort is not what you might call intuitive. The map on the website indicates that after the Lulu in Barka, you should make a U-turn, and then a quick right onto a smaller service road. In a small village, passed a green mosque, you turn right again, then follow the gravel path to the resort. All is as described, but as the off-road portion of the journey begins, you will find that there are highway construction sites, goat paths, and wadis that make the trek a bit more of a guessing game. We switched into off-road mode and made our way through the gravel and stone, making several wrong turns before spotting the resort atop some golden sand dunes and turning down the correct dirt path. On these uneven roads, I didn’t even flinch. In any other sports car, I would have been sweating bullets over the clearance, but once off the asphalt, I almost forgot that I was driving a Maserati. The vehicle felt capable, and it was. That said, despite the fact that I was assured that the Levante has full off-road capabilities, I absolutely didn’t have the heart to take this picture-perfect Maserati through the sand dunes (especially as it wasn’t my Maserati), though the idea of pulling up among the other dune bashers in such a vehicle was a thrilling idea. By passing the sandy back entrance, we crawled up the rock incline towards the entrance to the resort.

The relative difficulty of reaching the place was actually part of the fun as it made it feel like an adventure (once there we found that a third of the vehicles parked in front were sedans, so

in the end, it is perfectly accessible). We pulled up to the open air reception desk and were given the key to our luxury tent, just on the crest of the adjacent hill.

The “tent” structures are circular outbuildings that are adorned with old-school Arabesque touches, starting with the entryways. Wooden doors are locked with artful padlocks from the outside and bolted with wood from the inside. Inside the pointed ceiling is draped with soft fabric, and from the centre hangs a lovely old lantern. The bathroom, accessed through another set of carved wooden doors features a cave motif with a sunken tub. Through our small window we had a clear view of one of the towering dunes, and the wild antics of the local 4x4 enthusiasts who were engaged in a battle of engine versus sand.

After inspecting our room, we walked back up the hill to the open air restaurant to have a meal. The lunch was a set fivecourse menu, but upon special request they made us sandwiches instead. Nibbling on our lunch and sipping mocktails, we continued to watch the show happening on the surrounding dunes. Aside from spa treatments and dune buggy rentals, enjoying a front row seat to this quintessential Omani activity seemed to be the entertainment of choice for those of us staying at the property. As the sun dipped, our view of car lights zig-zagging up and down the hills was replaced by the flicker of campfires. A man began walking around our tables, strumming a guitar and singing classic old American songs. The stars glittered above the desert, full of wishes and promises for journeys yet to come.— felicia@timesofoman.com

14

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

TO D LIST

B E CO M E A M A R A

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

15

STORY SALIM AL AFIFI

M

uscat Marathon is coming back this year on January 27, which leaves race-day hopefuls less than a month to prepare. To this end, Horizon Fitness is offering free hour-long training sessions at the Sultan Qaboos Stadium every Friday morning leading up to the event. Workouts will include a warm up, cross training, and a run.

Some might wonder what exactly a Marathon is, and why it is so important to prepare for one. Basically a long-distance road running event covering 42.195-kilometre, the Marathon was one of the original Olympic Games. Legend has it that the event was created in honour of the Greek soldier Pheidippides who ran 25 miles from the town of Marathon to Athens in 490 BC to announce victory over the Persians. The poor soldier died right after reaching his king’s land and announcing the defeat.

Death is not a common side-effect of these races, but running for a distance of over 42 kilometres, does warrant some training and preparation, and for many, this is part of the fun of becoming a marathoner.

Amateur runners travel around the world to participate in Marathons, spending the months between races preparing, often as a part of running groups. It has become a kind of global club for many, who say the sport can be addictive. In Oman, this running culture is coming into trend as more and more people look for ways to make recreational activities part of their everyday lives. To promote this healthy aim, and to become part of the global running community, the Muscat Marathon was launched six years ago.

The event has witnessed a tremendous growth over the past couple of years, and the upcoming race is set to see record participation with over 1,000 participants already registered. The race will route from Al Mouj to the Seeb Corniche and back to Al Mouj. For new runners, other race categories including a Half Marathon (21-kilometres) and a 10-kilometre fun run are also taking place.

To get the full marathon experience, start training now with a sprinting, jogging, and strength training routine, as well as the weekly Horizon Fitness Marathon group training. Try to eat a balanced diet (go easy on the sugar and candies for a while) with plenty of protein, whole wheat, and healthy fats. Training for and participating in a marathon is a great excuse to get your year off to a healthy start, meet new workout buddies, and set an attainable goal for yourself that will leave you feeling like a superstar. — salim@timesofoman.com

Horizon Fitness Marathon Training Location: Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex Timing: Fridays, 8am check-in/ 9am workout Cost: Free to participate More Info: facebook.com/horizonfitnessoman/events/

THONER

Al Mouj Muscat Marathon 2017 Date: Friday, January 27 Times: Marathon will start 6am, half marathon at 7am, 10km race at 8am Cost: Marathon (OMR30), Half Marathon (OMR25), 10k (OMR20) Info: muscatmarathon2017@omansail.com Register: muscatmarathon.om Marathon and Half Marathon participants must be at least 17 years of age on race day and 10k run participants must be at least 10 years of age.

16

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

EDITOR’S LUNCH

A TASTE OF NANDO’S NEW

MANGO LIME STORY HI EDITORS • PHOTOS SALIM AL AFIFI

Nando’s is a well-known favourite in Oman, beloved for its so-called “flamed” chicken skewers which are marinated overnight in a secret South African blend and then basted with marinade while grilling for some of the most melt-in-your-mouth tender chicken in the city. Their spicy peri-peri sauces are so popular, you can even find bottles of them in fancy grocery stores about town. So, when we heard that the restaurant was adding a brand new sauce to their lineup, we knew we had to go check it out. We weren’t disappointed.

—HiWeekend@timesofoman.com

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

17

BEST OF THE MANGO LIME MAINS Swati’s Pick: Nandocas’ Choice In all my previous visits to Nando’s I have never ever bothered to set my eyes on the menu list. Each time I would invariably ask for Espetada, the neatly stacked, skewered, flame-grilled chicken wooed me so much that it became my permanent favourite before I had the chance to taste anything else. For our editor’s lunch, I decided it was time to try something new, so I ordered the Nandocas’ Choice, a whole butterflied Peri-Peri chicken breast served on garlic bread and topped with freshly made coleslaw. Slathered in the new mangolime sauce at Nandos, it was a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, tender-crisp chicken, and luscious, buttery garlic bread. The fries were such a delicious add-on that I didn’t have room for dessert.

OMR 5.500 (with 2 regular sides) Gautam’s pick: Espetada There’s something quite mystical, if you will, about the merger of two cultures that leads to a symbotic (and delicious) outcome. The Espetada is the best example of this happy fusion as it incorporates Portuguese culinary methods and South African spices and herbs. Delicately, deliciously balanced on a glinting metal skewer, juicy, crunchy, flavourful chicken and crispy bell peppers bring to mind leisurely days on a Portuguese beach, watching as meat turns and roasts on a spit over a bed of hot coals. Bringing the whole shebang together is Nando’s secret marinade and a healthy dash of sweet, tangy, spicy mango and lime sauce. Don’t bother trying to obtain the recipe for these secret blends. We asked, quite nicely, and they politely told us no.

OMR6.900 (with 2 regular sides) Ashish’s pick: Espetada Carnival I’ve always wanted to try the gorgeous, hanging skewers at Nando’s. They were somehow reminiscent of Nairobi, and as they would pass by on their way to another table, the smells were nothing short of intoxicating. While sampling dishes new and old for editor’s lunch, I finally got my chance to taste this impressive-looking creation. Turns out that the dish consists of flame-grilled Peri-Peri chicken thighs stuffed with feta and parsley that are skewered with mixed peppers and grilled. Served with garlic buns and Peri-Peri-wedges, it is more of a feast than an entree. Subtle and delicious as it was, a squeeze of mango-lime sauce brought a new dimension to the flavour.

OMR7.100 (with 2 regular sides)

NANDO’S

Shruthi’s pick: Grilled Chicken Cataplana A steaming copper bowl appeared, filled with so many things that I gave up trying to dissect the rich-smelling plate and dove right in. Atop a spicy bed of rice, juicy chicken thighs and smokey grilled vegetables were blanketed in garlic-y cataplana sauce, with a spicy South African twist. In addition to Peri-Peri spices, the new mango and lemon sauce amps up the flavour of this mega-hot dish.

Suggestion: Try to have the first bite with your eyes closed.

Warning: If you can’t handle spicy food, then don’t even think about ordering this. Or maybe use this as a delicious culinary challenge, as it is SPICY, but so worth it.

OMR 5.500

QURUM COMPLEX, QURUM +968 2456 1818 NANDOSOMAN.COM @NANDOSOMAN HOURS SAT-THURS, 11AM TILL 11:30PM FRIDAY 1PM TILL 11:30PM OTHER BRANCHES MUSCAT CITY CENTRE, OMAN AVENUES MALL, AL MOUJ

THE BEST OF THE BEVS Gautam’s pick: Crimson Cola Nando’s is best known across the globe as a destination that fuses the old world and the new, and the Crimson Cola is no exception to that rule. Coca Cola on its own is a singularly delicious beverage, but I never thought something as simple as a shot of humble pomegranate would elevate it to a downright amazing refreshment offering rapid bursts of sweet and sour flavour, alternating in a fizzy, effervescent dance.

OMR2.100 Ashish’s pick: Refreshmint True to its name, this combination of Mojito mint syrup, Sprite and fresh lime juice blended with fresh mint leaves and lots of crushed ice is as refreshing as they come.

OMR2.100 Shruthi’s pick: Coconut Crush Sweet and light, with coconut milk, Sprite, and a dash of lime juice blended with crushed ice, this white glass of awesomeness did multiple jobs throughout the course of my three-hour-long lunch meeting. First, it quenched my thirst in the most delicious way, then it helped me gulp-down the mounds of chicken and garlic bread, and finally, it saved my burning mouth after I inhaled too much of the hot Peri-Peri sauce. This is a luscious one-man-army of a drink.

OMR2.100

18

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

“C

MUSCAT PARENT STORY GAUTAM BHARGAV VISWANATHAN PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

an I have some ice, mum?” sevenyear-old Lachlan asked his mother Kylie after he’d finished his Coke.

I watched as the waiter returned and set a glass of ice down in front of him.

“What do you say, Lachlan,” asked Kylie, as he began crunching on the cubes in front of him. “Thank you,” he said to the departing server.

A fondness for ice, odd as it may seem to some, is a result of Lachlan’s Sensory Processing Disorder, which is on the Autism Spectrum. And this habit is perhaps the most benign of the heart-wrenching challenges he has had to face.

“He doesn’t know how to control his senses,” explained his father, Steve Johnson, the Golf Superintendent at Al Mouj Golf. “If you are walking down a dark alley and are startled by a cat, you might get scared, but you will realise what it is and calm down, but he doesn’t have the facility to calm down.”

“We had to take him away from his own birthday party because he could not bear to hear the sound of the other children singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to him,” recalled Kylie. “His ears could not take the sound, and he would start screaming every time that happened.”

Lachlan’s challenges became apparent only after the couple had moved to Oman, making the situation more difficult to navigate.

“We had him enrolled in pre-school here, and then we realised that he wasn’t progressing as fast as his peers,” Kylie said.

“Then, when we tried to get him enrolled in the local schools, they did not have the facilities (at the time), so we had to homeschool him. It was really hard to do, because we were expatriates and weren’t allowed to

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

we’ll order our meals so that we can eat together,” Kylie explained.

Sabah Al Bahlani is glad to see families like Lachlan’s, but worries that often they are the exception rather than the norm as many families still feel the sting of social stigma over disabilities. “This is changing in Oman, and especially younger parents are coming forward with their children for help, but there is still a stigma in our society.” She feels that creating a culture of tolerance for those with disabilities needs to start early. “Children and teachers in school need to be educated about children with disabilities to understand their limits so that they can learn to work with them.”

To give back to the community and help other families, three years ago the Johnsons began a programme in collaboration with Al Mouj Golf to raise funds for autism awareness in the region. Titled ‘Golf Fore Autism’, last November the event raised OMR14,000 to combat autism in the Sultanate.

“Lachlan has his own challenges, but he is doing so much better now,” said Steve. “Those who have autism can live a life like any other, and what we would like for him in the future is for him to contribute to society and pay his taxes.”

Lachlan is now enrolled in a school that has been specially created for those who suffer from conditions very similar to his, and not only is he doing well, but he is ahead of his peers.

As I bid adieu to his parents Lachlan jumped up and high-fived me, grinning with childish energy and positivity.

—gautam@timesofoman.com

hire anyone full time to look after him.”

Fortunately for families in Oman struggling with an autistic family member, help arrived in the form of the Association of Early Intervention for Children with Disabilities. “If you have a child with a disability, the entire family needs to work together and support each other,” explained Sabah Al Bahlani, the head of the association.

His mother and father have done their best to create a normal, safe environment for their son. “He perceives senses differently to us,” Steve continued. “He loves his food cold, which is why he loves eating so much ice. To you and me, ice is not something you would snack on, but his brain does not register that ice is cold.”

“Whenever we go into a restaurant, we’ll call ahead and tell them what Lachlan wants or we’ll order for him first so that they can put it into a freezer and then

GET HELP OR GIVE HELP Association of Early Intervention for Children with Disabilities +968 2449 6960 aei.org.om Golf Fore Autism golfforeautism.org

19

20

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HOW TO WALK LIKE A MODEL IN SKY HIGH HEELS STORY ANTARA BOSE

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

1. PICK THE RIGHT PAIR If you want to strut around in heels the first and foremost thing to take into consideration is that you’ve selected the right pair. Just as we look at fit, comfort, and style when we buy a dress, the same principles apply to shoes. Don’t give in to temptations when you see a pretty pair that don’t seem to fit your feet right, as staggering around in painful heels give a bad look on anyone. Always try walking in the pair for at least a few minutes before buying. If there is any discomfort, know it will most likely be aggravated later. Keep in mind: • Size Get your feet measured. Like body shape, the shape of our feet matters. Some of us need a wider fit than others, and without that knowledge, many try to stuff their feet into dainty little shoes that just aren’t right.

• Cushioning Press against the insides of the shoe to see how hard the sole is. Heels with thick soles are always more comfortable.

• Heel Shape Though stilettos and pencil heels might look sassy, if you can’t walk in them, their alluring purpose is defeated. Shorter “kitten heels” or thicker heels are easier to walk in, and are generally more comfortable.

Tip: To ascertain if the height of the heel is right for you, slip into your desired pair and lift yourself out of your heels.

If you can lift yourself about an inch or so, you’ve made the right choice. If you can’t, try something that’s smaller.

2. PREP FROM INSIDE OUT Put those life-saving cushions and grips into play. Add the necessary insoles (or orthopaedic pads) and supports to ensure your shoes are customised for your foot’s comfort.

Once you are done with the inside, flip it over. As much as we wish our heels had the grip of a sport shoe, the eternal struggle with ‘slipping’ has been accepted. But it doesn’t mean we can’t scratch some traction into them. Get sandpaper and rough up the bottom of your slick pair of heels for some added grip. A confident walk down the pavement or on some gravel would work, too.

3. STRETCH IT OUT We often think that the maximum impact of wearing heels is on our feet. Myth buster right here: Our calves and abdomen also take in a lot of the pressure. To be able to walk comfortably, we need to open, flex, and strengthen these areas. To limber-up, try bending over as much as you can to touch your toes. Keep holding the position until you feel the stress on your calves, thighs, and hamstrings. It is essential to open up these muscles to prevent soreness later. If you’ve already had a long day on heels and need to slip into them again in the evening, then roll the sole of your feet on some balls or even marbles to prevent cramping.

Tip: Tape your third and fourth toes together to take the pressure off the ball of your feet.

4. BABY STEPS How you move is as important to looking good as what you are moving in. Just remember: Heel first, followed by toe, the Golden rule of walking in heels. Even if you need to move fast, take small, quick steps instead of long strides.

Make sure you step lightly instead of clomping, and lead with the ball of your foot. No matter your gait, walking with confidence like a fashion warrior is what wearing heels is all about.

Tip: When you shift your full weight onto one foot, spread your toes in the shoe slightly. This will help to take the pressure off and distribute the weight onto the ball of the foot.

Antara Bose is a professional model living in Muscat.

Check her out on Instagram @antarabose

5. FIND YOUR POISE Slumping or leaning forward looks far from appealing. Bring yourself to your full height, pull your shoulders back and engage your abdominal muscles. It is normal to stiffen a little to hold that balance but try to relax yourself. Let your hands move freely and most importantly take the pressure off the knees. Always focus on a distant object instead of the ground. Not only does that show confidence but actually makes balancing easier. It also offsets the tendency to lean forward. Remember, avoid the ‘head-butting the wind’ position. Lean back just slightly; this will counter the tendency to push your torso forward and will ultimately make the walk easier and more graceful.

6. TACKLING THE STAIRS The one who has mastered the art of gracefully ascending and descending stairs in heels has mastered it all. Here are some tips: • Climbing up Step with only the first half of the shoe not the heels. The heels should quite literally be in mid air. It should feel like you are in flats.

• Climbing down You can ditch the heel first rule here.

Always step down sideways so you can get your entire foot to fit diagonally on the stair. Step with the entire shoe – heel, middle and tip – all together. Watch the catwalk queens and you’ll see exactly how effortless this can look.

7. HEEL HAZARDS Caution: Be wary of holes, cracks, soft soil, and uneven ground. It is easy to get your heels stuck (and dirty) if you step in muck, or worse, those dreaded cracks on the pavement which could even lead to breaking your stilettos.

Warning: If you just have to walk through grass, try raising yourself higher in your heels. This will automatically lift your heels slightly above the grass and prevent it from sinking that much.

Notice: Worn-out, uneven heels or even a small chip can make your walk look like you’ve got a limp, so carry a set of heel caps that you can instantly stick on as a quick-fix.

8. TAKE BREAKS No matter what we say, our feet aren’t meant to be in the position heels put them in, they just aren’t. So grab every opportunity to sit (politely, without any snatching of chairs), even if it is just for a minute. This will give your legs, back, and even abdomen some time to recover. Lift your feet up and above the ground if the situation allows. If you don’t have a choice but to stay on your feet, try to move to softer ground whenever you can.

—hiweekend@timesofoman.com

21

22

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

HI WEEKLY

23

24

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

n cities around the world, especially in the cities of the west, farmers’ markets are known as place where one can not only buy fresh, local produce, but also a place to find other handcrafted, locally made goods, and to try a taste of fabulous dishes from around the world, made right there in the city. Now, at long last, Muscat has one such place for foodies, passionate home cooks, art and musiclovers, health-fanatics, and the curious looking for something new to do on a Saturday morning.

The sprawling garden of InterContinental Muscat in Qurum transforms into a one-of-a-kind al fresco souq every Saturday afternoon, so last week, I finally made my way over.

After meandering through the lanes and facing down the parking ordeal, I made my way through a swarm of people and finally managed to reach the hotel’s garden. Having been there previously to attend formal events, I was surprised to see the serenity of the place replaced by the liveliness and bustle of a happening market.

Nothing like other vegetable markets in Muscat, the space was well organised with stalls of produce, handicrafts, and prepared foods, along with live entertainment.

Known for the organic fruits and vegetables brought straight from farms around the city, I saw trucks full of organic produce being sold, some looking waxed and sparkling clean, while others looked as if they had been pulled right out of the ground that morning and brought directly to the market.

As I held a lovely, dirt-covered organic beet, I heard a familiar sound. I looked up to see one of my favourite local bands, “Jams” on their guitars and drums performing. I wandered over to listen, and then made my way down another row of shaded, open-air shops. The vendors were from all over the world, displaying their handmade goods and inviting people to come sample, touch, and try everything from fresh-baked Iraqi bread to homemade South African sausage; hand-crafted jewellery and re-purposed antiques.

With a multitude of farmers, florists, artists, and chefs pedalling their wares, there is far too much to explore in one weekend, and plenty of reasons to keep coming back.

I spoke to the vendors themselves to find out what makes this souq so special, and it turns out, it is the vendors themselves who are the heart and soul of this market. So I put together a quick guide to some of the amazing people to pay a visit to this weekend. —salim@timesofoman.com

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

G&W Lekker As my stomach started to grumble, I noticed a stall with a long queue of other hungry-looking souls. It seemed like a good sign, so I joined them. Turns out, G&W Lekker is the only place around where you can get authentic, home-made, South African sausages in Muscat.

Served on a split roll, I sat and savoured a sweet-chilli sausage with mustard and caramelised onions as I had a quick chat with the vendor, Wally Adjiet and his wife.

They explained that they started making their own sausage two years ago when they craved a taste of home and couldn’t find any proper, homemade sausages in the city. Their sausages were an instant hit, and they have continued to make ever since. Mixing imported South African spices with high quality beef, the sausages come in BBQ, sweet-chilli, and coriander flavours, which are sold in sandwich form and uncooked by the kilo. And if you’re wondering what Lekker means, it’s a colloquial word in South Africa that means ‘cool’.

ADJIETS, G&W LEKKER +968 9513 9230

HI WEEKLY

25

Studio Drip The first stall that caught my attention was Studio Drip, which had a massive portrait of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, hand-painted with waterbased colours on a white canvas. The place is a home for art aficionados who appreciate fine painting and photography. As I stood there admiring the art, I met Istabraq Al Ansari, one of the co-founders of the brand. Istabraq has been a fan of travelling all her life—she’s a nomad at heart who has a strong passion for the arts—and Oman is her current home. Inside her stall, she brought London to Muscat, creating an atmosphere similar to that found London’s central market, with pictures hung on ropes in a very modern style. More than just a business woman, she’s also into humanitarian work, raising funds through her art for children in need.

ISTABRAQ, STUDIO DRIP +968 9124 8568

Plum Design Studio Another inspiring art shop is Plum Design Studio.

Here you’ll find artist Anupama Mehta displaying her beautiful work, which varies from paintings to clothes. She grew up inspired and influenced by her mother, who was an artist too. After having her first baby, she decided to stay home, which seemed like a golden opportunity to perfect her brushing skills. Today, Anupama paints on glass, ceramic, wood, and silk.

She also makes super cool gifts such as a hand-painted XO game set, which is ideal for camping and gatherings. She also does customise paintings on request.

Paradiza Organic Farm Paradiza is the shop you’d expect to find in a farmer’s market; only better. I stopped at their stall to taste their halloumi cheese, which they served on a piece of bread with a slice of organic cucumber. A family business founded by Narjis Al Ajmi, Paradiza is a one-stop-shop for healthy, homegrown, natural products from their farm in Barka. They also offer a variety of organic products like herbs, cupcakes, muffins, kale chips, vegetable and chicken stocks, and halloumi cheese, along with their excellent home-grown vegetables.

ANUPAMA, PLUM DESIGN STUDIO +968 9287 8672

NARJIS, PARADIZA +968 9900 0059

HALAYIL’S HONEY +968 9069 9901, @HALAYILHONEY

Baghdad Bakery “Perfection is our mission, quality is our religion”, reads the slogan hanging over the Baghdad Bakery booth. The decor of the rustic booth was as appealing as the products, which include all kinds of breads, from meat breads to an Iraqi bread known as ‘Iraqi Samoon’, as well as Iraqi sweets, date-stuffed biscuits, and homemade date vinegar and infused olive oils. It is the first authentic Iraqi bakery in town and the stall is an outpost of the brick and mortar shop in Azaiba near Millennium Hypermarket.

Mrs Salvages A lovely Slovakian woman, Mrs Salvages has a passion for recycled art for which she takes old stuff and makes it new again using techniques she learned from her mother. At the shop you’ll find a variety of marvellous home decor items from little boxes for gifts and candies to flower-patterned chairs, and hand-painted rocks that could liven-up any flower pot. Even her business cards have creative flair, as they are miniature rocks etched with her contact details.

Halayil’s Honey This simple yet interesting shop sells organic honey, and was opened out of a passion for East African Honey. The family named the shop after its youngest member, Halayil, and specialises in authentic East African honey, which is organic, corn starch-free, and comes in a number of flavours. There’s honey with ginger, honey with black seeds, honey with nuts, honey with saffron, and of course, good ol’ plain honey.

INSTAGRAM @MRS.SALVAGES

BAGHDAD BAKERY, +968 9272 0278

Bella’s Bakery & Kitchen As I was exploring and eating my way through the souq, I caught a whiff of grilled steak and caramelising cheese. It lead me to Bella’s Bakery, where they were handing a steak and cheese sandwich to an awaiting customer. The Lebanese vendors moved to Oman from London, where they gained their passion for baking and sandwich-making. The stall is an extension of the couple’s shop in Shatti Al Qurum (Opposite City Cinema), offering fresh, handmade bites including cookies, muffins, homemade chutneys in exotic flavours, sandwiches, and their signature Italian focaccia bread.

Rozna-Muscat Salama Mustafa, is an Omani mother and artist who adores art and culture. Inspired by her daughter who convinced her to take a dive into this business, Salama didn’t want to start just another artsy shop, instead her main goal was to explore and then introduce Omani heritage in a modern way through art. Her shop is filled with handmade goods, which include East African tribal fabrics, printed-on-fabric art from Omani painter Moosa Omar, fine linen and cotton goods, and carved gift items made of wood and ceramic. I especially loved the cute little bowls covered in Omaniinspired designs.

BELLA’S BAKERY & KITCHEN, +968 9140 6610

SALAMA, ROZNA-MUSCAT +968 9937 4139

26

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

A New Year’s bash at Qurum Amphitheatre was organised by The Country Club in association with Orbit Events Management and featured a performance by the iconic Indian musician Stephen Devassy and Solid Band. Photos by Purushothaman K.

IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY

National Life & General Insurance Company held its annual staff party “Emfest 2016” at Sheraton Hotel. Photos by Shabin E.

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

2nd Oman Gas Company Table Tennis Open Tournament, organised by the Oman Table Tennis Committee, saw participation by thirteen countries at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, Baushar.

IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY

HI WEEKLY

27

28

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

The ‘I Love the Sultan’ campaign continued with a grand party at 360 Degrees Restaurant hosted

by The Times of Oman for 150 of the students and staff of Indian School, Darsait for their participation in the initiative.

Photos by Purushothaman K.

IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY

Apollo Hospital Muscat received German Accreditation for completion of the ICAP (Infection Control Accreditation Program).

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

IN FOCUS DO YOU WANT TO BE IN FOCUS? SHARE YOUR PICTURES WITH US ON FACEBOOK.COM/HIWEEKLY

Spicy Village in Rusayl hosted the Dawn of 2017 New Year’s Eve Celebration.

HI WEEKLY

29

30

HI WEEKLY

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 52 JANUARY 5, 2017

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

7

8

1

4 9

2

1

4 6

7 5 2

3

7

5 8

1

2 6

2

9 3

1

2

6

4

9

3

5

9

Level | Moderate

7

3

6

5 1 9

5

6

2

9

5

8

8

4

6

8 2

3

5

2

2

9

7

9

1 6 7

7

2

4

Level | Difficult

1

7 5

4 8

4 1

9

1

3

6

4

7 6

9 1 9 8

6

PLAY AND WIN 1

8

7

3

3 7

2 8

9

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.