signature-eng-july2011

JULY 2011

SUMMER DIARIES

TEN MUST-DO THINGS FASHION ESSENTIALS SCENTS & COSMETICS

MIKIMOTO

A SYMBOL OF ELEGANCE

PLUS: CARS, TECHNOLOGY, BUZZ

CONTENTS 14

FOCUS MIKIMOTO

22

28

08 EVENT OMAN GREEN AWARDS 19 UPFRONT THE LATEST IN NEWS

TRAVEL 10 THINGS TO DO

PEOPLE NABIL DAUD

62

58

CARS ARIEL ATOM

RETROSPECTIVE ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

EVENT AIWA AWARDS

24

STOPOVER NEW YORK

26

HOME ARTEMIDE

64

TECHNOLOGY GOOGLE WALLET

66

PLUS MORE........

THE GIFT OF KINGS W W W. A M O UAG E . C O M

JULY 2011

SUMMER DIARIES

10 MUST-DO THINGS FASHION ESSENTIALS SCENTS & COSMETICS

MIKIMOTO

EDIT NOTE

A SYMBOL OF ELEGANCE

PLUS: CARS, TECHNOLOGY, BUZZ

Caption: Conch Pearls Image courtesy: Mikimoto CONCEPT & CREATION MAYANK SINGH DEEPA RAJAN CONTENT RANA ALAWNEH MYSSAA AL HINAIAH SUSHMITA EXPERTS Travel - BRUCE STEWART, ANNE COLBY Fashion - NATASHA LUNN, NADIA FOUZI Finance & Investments - K. L PRASAD ART Senior Art Director SANDESH S. RANGNEKAR Designer KHOULA RASHID AL WAHAIBI Photographers RAJESH RAJAN MOTASIM AL BALUSHI PRODUCTION Production Head GOVINDRAJ RAMESH ADVERTISING & MARKETING Advertising Manager CHANDNI MANIAR Asst. Advertising Manager JISHA VELLUVAN CORPORATE Chief Executive - SANDEEP SEHGAL Executive Vice President - ALPANA ROY Vice President - RAVI RAMAN Senior Business Support Executive RADHA KUMAR Business Support Executive ZUWAINA SAID AL RASHDI DISTRIBUTED WITH OER by UNITED MEDIA SERVICES LLC Signature is an OER presentation published monthly and released in the first week of every month. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person or organisation acting or refraining as a result of material in this publication. Signature accepts no responsibility for advertising content.

Correspondence should be addressed to SIGNATURE UNITED MEDIA SERVICES LLC, PO Box 3305, Ruwi, PC 112, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Mobile +968 99849242 Fax +968 24707939

e-mail: signature@umsoman.com/ reachsignature@gmail.com/ www.umsoman.com An

Presentation Copyright © 2010 United Press & Publishing LLC

A TRUE PEARL

The pearl’s iridescent luminosity has bewitched men and women alike for thousands of years. Whether offered in romance or taken in victory, worn as a symbol of chastity or a mystical aphrodisiac, pearls have been and continue to be among the most coveted gems in the world.

The ancient Greeks wore pearls at their wedding ceremonies, believing they would ensure marital bliss and prevent new brides from crying; a custom that still lives on today. These divine gems have even changed history. The most famous story of them all is that of Cleopatra's wager that she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in one meal! Mark Antony watched as she removed a pearl earring, crushed it and drank the powder mixed with her drink. Is it any wonder then that this act turned a brave warrior into a lovelorn slave.

Today, royals, celebrities and fashion icons continue their passion for pearls. From extravagant statement pieces to elegant single strands and luminous studs, brands such as Mikimoto bring the delightful cultured pearl experience within reach of today's modern woman and man.

This issue we present the story of Mikimoto. A brand, that is today an integral part of many a sophisticated jewellery box, owes its success to one man, the force behind it all, Kokichi Mikimoto, who gave to this world the fine gift of cultured pearls.

We salute his quest for perfection and his love for these pure, lustrous gems of the sea.

His passion and zeal make Kokichi Mikimoto one of the few pearls that humanity has been blessed with.

See you next issue people…

The new fragrance

www.givenchy.com

BLOCK YOUR DATES

45th Montreux Jazz Festival July 1 – 16 Switzerland ArtHamptons July 8 – 10 Southampton, New York, USA

Anime Expo 2011 July 1 – 4 Los Angeles, USA Bregenzer Festspiele July 20 – August 21 Austria

Los Sanfermines July 6 – 14 Pamplona, Spain Festival International de Carthage July 8 – August 16 Tunisia The British Formula One Grand Prix July 8 - 10 Silverstone, Northamptonshire, UK

Calgary Stampede July 8 – 17 Calgary, Canada

Bastille Day July 14 Paris, France The Open Golf Championship July 14 – 17 Kent, UK Cartier International Polo July 24 Guards Polo Club, Berkshire, UK

Kyoto Gion Matsuri July 1 -29 Kyoto, Japan

Salzburg Festival July 27 – August 30 Salzburg, Austria

Longines Royal International Horse Show July 26 - 31 Hickstead Show Ground, West Sussex, UK

UPFRONT

THE LATEST AND OUT-OF-THE-ORDINARY… ‘CATTY’ TRIBUTE

From Girard-Perregaux comes a rare creation that combines the jeweller’s art with the brand’s watchmaking virtuosity: the Cat’s Eye Tourbillon Haute Joaillerie. At its heart beats the iconic Girard Perregaux tourbillon with gold bridge, lit up by a dazzling array of diamonds.

Featuring the oval silhouette that is characteristic of the collection, the Cat’s Eye Tourbillon Haute Joaillerie is set entirely with baguette-cut diamonds. Given the exceptionally strict criteria used to select each of the 287 diamonds and the extreme precision required for the cutting, adjustment and setting of every stone, this stunning array of almost 20K demands over 700 hours of patient work.

For details contact Khimji’s Watches, Shatti Al Qurum

EXCALIBUR OF TIME

REWARDS GALORE

Connoisseurs of fine watches in Oman are in for a treat with Swiss luxury watch manufacturers Roger Dubuis unveiling their exclusive Excalibur Lady collection recently. Combining the power of an iconic model - the Excalibur - with the subtle elegance of a feminine design, the Excalibur Lady collection writes a new chapter in the history of the Geneva-based Manufacture. The new Lady collection has retained the features that form its emblematic codes: three horns for the bracelet fixing, a highly distinctive grooved bezel and slender Roman numerals. These new aesthetic preferences help to create a more subtle and decidedly feminine silhouette.

The Roger Dubuis range is available at Mistal, Darsait

Here’s a piece of good news. The Millennium Resort Mussanah is rolling out the Millennium & Copthorne Loyalty Club in Oman, offering frequent guests a chance to earn points with each qualifying stay. Loyalty Club members will gain a number of special benefits, including fast-track registration, early check-in, late check-out, broadband benefits, room upgrades, and birthday rates and dining discounts. The points collected can be redeemed against complimentary stays and exclusive offers across international markets in which the hotel group operates.

‘HD’ EFFECT

Panasonic recently launched a new range of VIERA high-definition television or HDTV along with a range of LCD, LED and Plasma TVs, Blu-ray home theatre system and a sound bar. The company also announced that it will launch an expanded range of VIERA Plasma, LED and LCD TVs this year. The new attractively-designed models combine eco sensibility with superior product performance and enhanced networking functionality.

The new range includes 13 different 3D and five LED models for consumers to select from. In addition to these new models, you can also choose the Panasonic’s VT30 and ST30 Neo Plasma 3D TVs featuring unique technologies like Infinite Blackpro and Intelligent Viera Connect.

Omasco is the exclusive distributor of Panasonic range of products in Oman 8

UPFRONT

SAXON ELEGANCE

MEDITERRANEAN SPARKLE

The sense of vitality exuded by chromatic combinations and spontaneous forms comes to life in a new, brilliantly coloured collection of necklaces, sautoirs, rings and earrings of the Bulgari Mediterranean Eden Sassi collection.

Unusual and sensual combinations characterise the necklaces and earrings in yellow gold with amethysts and turquoises alternated with diamonds or, in an even more original version, with coral and peridot. The collection also includes spectacular rings in yellow gold, the distinguishing feature of which is the abundant volumes of the cabochon-cut amethyst or peridot.

The Sassi line from the new Mediterranean Eden Collection is available in Bulgari stores in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Manama

A. Lange & Söhne has reinvented the Saxonia line with a contemporary vision, whilst remaining true to the brand’s technical and engineering brilliance. The Saxonia Automatic has been endowed not only with a larger and slimmer case but also with a newly developed self-winding movement. It has a power reserve of 72 hours, is a mere 3.7mm thick, and is the third self-winding movement presented by the Saxon master watchmakers. The white and pink gold cases of the Saxonia Automatic have grown to a diameter of 38.5mm, whilst the watches are now noticeably thinner, measuring only 7.8mm in overall height.

TECH-POWERED

The 2011 Infiniti M embraces the essence of all things Infiniti – style, performance, luxury, craftsmanship and technology. Advanced Safety and Security Systems means the 2011 Infiniti M is available with a number of innovative technologies designed to help avoid potentially dangerous situations. The M again offers Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. It also features the Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Blind Spot Intervention (BSI) systems, which are available as part of the M Technology Package.

For more details contact Infinti showroom, Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, Qurum

SPA IT AT ARMANI

Treat yourself to an Armani/SPA experience, where soothing and private spaces with personally tailored treatments have been designed to capture the essence of the Armani Lifestyle philosophy – from head to toe. This summer, choose from a trio of aromatherapy massage treatments, using Armani’s unique range of naturally fragranced essential oils.Your visit to Armani/SPA includes complimentary access to Armani Terme, a complete hydrothermal experience with sauna, steam bath and sequential shower, to detoxify and revitalise both body and mind.

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UPFRONT

PEOPLE’S CHOICE

Not that we have any doubts, but Porsche has been voted the top favourite among sports car fans: The readers of the “sportauto” car magazine ranked seven Porsche models – from the Boxster to the Panamera – first in the 15 categories of “The Sportiest Cars of 2011” survey. A second and two third places top off Porsche’s track record of success. The top models of the 911 line once again proved to be winners, from the open Carrera GTS and the Turbo S Cabriolet to the quasi race cars GT3 and GT3 RS. Other winners were the Cayman R, Boxster S and Panamera Turbo models. No other brand came close to winning as many first places.

The Porsche range is available at SATA, Porsche Centre Oman, Al Gubrah

A SMART CALL

Say hello to a new Android smartphone that is not only stylish but dust proof, water and scratch resistant, designed to withstand the challenges of everyday life. What are we talking about? The new Motorola DEFY, a slim, pocketable Android smartphone that comes equipped with advanced Web-browsing capabilities and a 3.7” high-resolution touch screen display that provides edge to edge views of your favorite photos, videos and websites. It also features a large, resilient display that has outstanding protection against scratch damage.

Motorola DEFY is available at all the leading outlets in Oman. For more information on the product visit www.khimjiblog.com

GIMME RED

For its latest Défi collection, S.T.Dupont has decided to celebrate the dynamic vitality of the colour red in several of its iconic products. First off is the Défi ballpoint pen, with its distinctive and powerful design and its ingenious combination of metal and composite shell. Red also adorns the brand’s two most contemporary lighters: the Line 8 and the MaxiJet. The Line 8 is lighter in weight than traditional lighters and slips easily into any pocket, while the MaxiJet is larger and more powerful yet ergonomically designed and easy to handle. The MaxiJet can be accompanied by its indispensable accessory: the double-blade cigar-cutter that opens with a simple press of the hand thanks to S.T.Dupont’s exclusive patented opening system.

For details contact Capital Store, Qurum

QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH

The most elite MINI yet, MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD has reached the Middle East and in keeping with its air of exclusivity, it is here for a limited period only to showcase its one-off design. The special edition of the three-door MINI was unveiled at the recent Shanghai Motor Show 2011. Developed in close collaboration with the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team، the car transfers the unmistakable style of the British luxury car manufacturer to the equally unique MINI. The exterior and interior features specially developed for the MINI embody the inimitable style of Rolls-Royce Design and generates an interior ambience defined by stylistic harmony, masterful workmanship and classic British elegance.

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AN AUDI EXPERIENCE

If you are a First Class passenger on Oman Air, be rest assured that it will be a journey filled with comfort and luxury all the way, right from your limousine service!

The national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman has joined with Audi to provide a fleet of chauffeur-driven Audi A8s that will whisk passengers from Oman Air’s new First Class airport lounge to their aircraft in unparalleled comfort and style. The new service follows Oman Air’s introduction of First Class cabins to its fleet in October 2009. Each cabin offers just six seats, a lounge area and dedicated flight attendants.

SPICING UP SHOPPING

Your favourite Nando’s Oman is now at Muscat City Centre (MCC) in Seeb. The inaugural event was held under the auspices of the Ambassador of South Africa, HE Yusuf Salojee and this marks the opening Nando’s second branch in the Sultanate. Home to the world-renowned flame-grilling Peri-Peri chicken, the restaurant is located in the East Wing of the Mall and will invariably add diversity to the casual dining options already available. The design of Nando’s restaurant, which seats more than 100 patrons, bridges the Omani culture and the true essence of Nando’s. No detail has been overlooked from the fabric of the chairs to the Arabesque carvings and clay pot light fixtures to ensure that the eclectic fun spirit of Nando’s is alive in every corner of the restaurant.

GENEVA ON A CYCLE

Here’s an eco-friendly way of touring Geneva. The Mandarin Oriental, Geneva is offering a luxurious City Cycling Package that encourages guests to discover the beauty of Geneva and its many parks on an electric bicycle.The City Cycling Package includes a full buffet breakfast at Brasserie Le Sud for two; a complimentary electric bicycle per person available for one day and cycling related amenity upon arrival. The package is valid until October 30 2011.

LUXURY LIVING

Here’s one more high-end residential and commercial development project for all those who are searching for the best living/commercial spaces. Alfardan Properties, an innovative leader in Qatar's real estate industry, signals its expansion in selective markets in the GCC with the official inauguration of the ‘Meydan Alazaibah’, one of the largest mixed-use developments in Oman. The project stands out as the newest and most attractive residential and business destination in Oman, as it integrates four residential blocks with a five-storey office building in a luxurious and technologically sophisticated mini-community development concept. Strategically located in Azaibah, Meydan Alazaibah – which means Courtyard in Arabic – also features aesthetically designed placements of buildings and central squares for relaxation and social activities.

Reservations can be made by visiting www.mandarinoriental.com

PEARLS OF SUCCESS FOCUS

TO WEAR A MIKIMOTO IS TO REFLECT THE PURITY OF THE OCEAN ... THE MYSTERY OF CREATION ... AND TO KNOW YOU ARE ADORNED WITH THE FINEST CULTURED PEARLS IN THE WORLD. SIGNATURE PRESENTS A PEEK INTO THE WORLD OF MIKIMOTO..

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Federico Fellini once said “All art is autobiographical. The pearl is the oyster’s autobiography. Since time immemorial, pearls have been revered as one of the world's most beautiful and magical gems. Throughout history, the pearl, with its warm inner glow and shimmering iridescence, has been one of the most highly prized and sought-after gems. The ancient Egyptians prized pearls so much that they were buried with them. Cleopatra is said to have dissolved a single pearl in her drink and consumed it, simply to win a wager with Mark Antony that she could consume the wealth of an entire nation in just one meal. In ancient Rome, pearls were considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and social standing. The Greeks held the pearl in high esteem for both its unrivaled beauty and its association with love and marriage. The Renaissance saw the royal courts of Europe awash in pearls.

The birth of this magical gem is a miracle in itself. Unlike gemstones or precious metals that must be mined from the earth, pearls are grown by live oysters far below the surface of the sea.

Gemstones must be cut and polished to bring out their beauty. But pearls need no such treatment to reveal their loveliness. These are natural pearls.

There are cultured pearls as well. Cultured pearls share the same properties as natural pearls. The only difference is a person carefully implants the irritant in the oyster, rather than leaving it to chance. We then step aside and let nature create its miracle.

Today, cultured pearls are the foundation of every woman's jewellery wardrobe. A simple cultured pearl necklace can take a woman through every moment in her life, every outfit in her wardrobe.

The possibilities are endless. But have you ever wondered who gave flight to these possibilities.

How did the idea of a cultured pearl come about?

This is where begins the story of one man’s dream to gift the world a grand legacy of a brand called Mikimoto.

The Birth of a brand Born in the town of Toba in Japan’s Shima peninsula, Kokichi Mikimoto was the eldest son of a noodle-shop owner, a generations-old family business. As the family grew, Mikimoto’s father worked hard to feed his children, selling charcoal and vegetables in addition to noodles.

When Mikimoto was only 11, his father fell ill, propelling the young boy into an early adulthood and prompting him to seek his fortune in a fast changing world.

Mikimoto was born at the end of the Edo period, a time when Japan was almost totally closed to foreign influence. With the arrival of Commodore Perry in the early 1850s, the doors of international trade began to open and an era of social change started. Highly intelligent and ahead of his time, Mikimoto was bold in his willingness to interact with other cultures and explore new opportunities beyond his family circumstances.

As a young man, he developed a keen interest in his port town’s most famous local product: Ise

Kokichi Mikimoto Founder, Mikimoto

Pearls. In 1878, Mikimoto helped to arrange and judge an exhibition of pearls in Japan. All around him, he saw misshapen or underdeveloped pearls being sold. As a perfectionist, he was disturbed by the pearl industry’s greed and disregard for quality, and his reputation eventually reached as far as Japan's Imperial Court.

Mikimoto learned that Akoya oysters produced the best pearls. He explored methods of introducing a particle into the flesh of the oyster to stimulate secretions of "nacre" that build up in hundreds of thousands of layers, creating a lustrous pearl.

He overcame many failed experiments and challenges of nature, from oyster-eating octopi to a disastrous ‘red tide’ of bacteria that threatened the survival of his oyster beds. On July 11, 1893, after enormous efforts of research and experimentation, Mikimoto's wife, Ume, hauled a basket of oysters from the sea for inspection. Nestled within the folds of an oyster, a gleaming object caught her eye. A pearl! Her husband's dream had finally become a reality.

Mikimoto had discovered the secret to cultivating beautiful pearls of such quality that they rivaled natural pearls. In 1896, Mikimoto was granted his first patent for cultured pearls. He based his flourishing business on Ojima Island where his first pearls were grown, renaming it Pearl Island.

The World’s an oyster In the decades to come, Mikimoto continued to advance the science of pearl cultivation and conquer new challenges such as successful cultivation of the remarkable South Sea pearl.

Again overcoming huge obstacles, including typhoons, he turned dream into reality with the cultivation of a large black pearl 10mm in diameter in the deep, warm waters of Okinawa.

Mikimoto’s first pearl boutique opened in Tokyo's fashionable shopping district, Ginza, in 1899.

His exceptional gems created high demand and Mikimoto stores soon followed in London, Paris and other major cities. Mikimoto's passion and ceaseless dedication to pearls led to many exciting developments, and helped his nation prosper in the global arena. As an inventor, he enthusiastically exhibited his products and created many astounding displays that spread the renown of Mikimoto cultured pearls.

In 1910, a traditional Japanese fan and screen lavished with Mikimoto cultured pearls were the focal points of the Anglo-Japanese Fair in London.

In 1926, he took part in the Philadelphia World Exposition, in which he displayed a replica of a five-storey pagoda covered with cultured pearls.

In 1933, he took part in the Chicago World Fair, and exhibited a model of George Washington's residence covered with cultured pearls. At the Paris Exposition held in 1937, he displayed the

Wheel of Arrows (Yaguruma) “Wheel of Arrows” (Yaguruma), covered with cultured pearls. Again in 1939, Mikimoto took part in the New York World Fair, where he displayed a replica of the "Liberty Bell" covered with pearls. Mikimoto's efforts in promoting cultured pearls got a big boost in 1930, when he was invited to the Imperial Palace of Japan and honoured as one of the top ten Japanese inventors. The public relations exercises he carried out by taking part personally in international exhibitions and displaying his different pearl creations soon paid off, and cultured pearls were accepted as authentic, and quickly became very popular.

After World War II, Mikimoto further expanded his business, by opening a series of Mikimoto stores in the main cities of the United States, such as New York, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles and San Francisco, and also other cities such as Paris in France, Shanghai in China and Mumbai in India. Thus making Mikimoto became the first Japanese brand to attain an international presence and recognition.

The Legacy As an ambassador of cultured pearls, Mikimoto personified Japan’s reputation for quality goods and helped to build its global trade. Many honours were bestowed on him: he was appointed to the House of Peers; introduced to Thomas Edison; received in audience by Emperor Showa; and received by the Empress Dowager when she visited Tatokujima Island. Upon his death at age 96, after building one of the greatest names in luxury jewellery, Mikimoto was awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure.

Mikimoto’s first pearl boutique Tokyo's fashionable shopping district, Ginza (1899) 16

Shortly after Mikimoto had succeeded in culturing a perfectly round pearl, he said, “I would like to adorn the necks of all the women of the world with pearls.” Today, his brand and his vision live on, adorned elegantly on many a chic and glamorous neck; exactly where Kokichi Mikimoto wanted them

STRANDS OF FAME She may have well crooned ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’, but Marilyn Monroe’s love for her Mikimoto pearls have been captured in many a memorable photographs of her. It was only recently that Mikimoto (America) purchased Marilyn Monroe’s Mikimoto pearl necklace in its original oval, leather, velvet-lined box from the late actress, Susan Strasberg, completing a circle of ownership dating back to 1954. That same year, Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio travelled to Japan for their honeymoon, where Joe DiMaggio presented Marilyn with an Akoya pearl necklace. Marilyn often wore the necklace, even years after her divorce from DiMaggio, saying it reminded her of “happier times”. A few years later, Marilyn gave the pearl necklace to Paula Strasberg, a close friend and the wife of her acting coach, Lee Strasberg. Upon Marilyn’s death in 1962, Paula Strasberg gave the pearls to her daughter, Susan Strasberg, saying, “Marilyn would have wanted you to have them.” The Mikimoto pearl necklace was one of the only pieces of fine jewellery Marilyn owned; most of her jewellery was costume.

“Mikimoto is the world’s foremost producer of the finest quality cultured pearls and a leading designer of exceptional jewellery. As one of the most experienced creators of jewellery with a long tradition of distinction, it has gained its welldeserved reputation through paying fine attention to each detail. Each item of jewellery is designed to meet the wearer’s complete satisfaction and for these reasons, highly appreciated through out the world.”

Anil Khimji Director – Khimji Ramdas, on why Khimji Ramdas Watches Division (KRWD) chose to add Mikimoto in its brand portfolio

“Mikimoto being the No.1 Brand of Cultured pearls in the world, we want it to attain the same position in Oman too. We are very confident that Mikimoto will achieve high level of success in the future.”

Madhursinh Jesrani, General Manager – Khimji’s Watches, on KRWD’s vision for Mikimoto in Oman For more details contact Khimji's Watches, Shatti Al Qurum

Les Paul Google Doodle On June 9, internet users woke up to Google’s most enjoyable app till date: the Les Paul Google Doodle. In honour of musician and electric guitar pioneer, Les Paul (whose birthday was on the aforementioned date) Google designed their logo to resemble the strings of a guitar – a guitar that’s actually playable (either by running the cursor over it or using the keyboard). The result? An app that gained so much popularity that Google ended up creating a separate webpage for it (google.com/logos/2011/lespaul. html). Word!

Cannes Film Festival Like every year, the Cannes Film Festival this year was a glittering affair. From May 11 to 22 it was all about the who’s who of the film industry as they walked down the red carpet dazzling in their best. From Hollywood to Bollywood and beyond, it was the event of the season.

Of course, let’s not forget the main reason behind the festival: films. Some of our favourites from the Official Selection includes Lynne Ramsay’s We Need to Talk About Kevin; Paolo Sorrentino’s This Must Be The Place, Michel Hazanavicius’ The Artist and Lars von Trier’s Melancholia. Our favourite moment? When the oh-so beautiful, Kirsten Dunst won the award for Best Actress (Melancholia).

Roland-Garros 2011 You don’t just get the title ‘King of Clay’ for swatting a few balls over the net and ace tennis player Rafael Nadal went to prove just that when he won his sixth Roland Garros title last month. (He now equals Bjorn Borg’s record.) And what an intense final it was! With Rodger Federer in it, we certainly couldn’t have expected anything less. With a final score line of 7-5, 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-1 Nadal and Federer gave us a game that’ll take us all a lifetime to forget.

BUZZ

EARTH’S EASILY THE MOST HAPPENING PLACE IN THE MILKY WAY. AND WE REALISE THAT IT’S HARD TO KEEP TRACK OF EVERYTHING THAT’S GOING ON, SO HERE’S A GLIMPSE OF SOME OF THE TOPICS THAT KEPT NEWS AGENCIES, INTERNET FORUMS AND SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES BUZZING…

MF Husain Little did we know when MF Husain visited us a few months back that we would be seeing him for the final time. On June 9, the art world lost one of its most celebrated artists. Often referred to as ‘The Picasso of India’, Husain was the pioneer of avant-garde Indian art, and influenced by myriad subjects including nature and mythology. In 2010 he took up residence in Qatar, but maintained that he would remain an ‘India-origin painter’ till his last breath.

Sarah Palin What news is ever complete without a mention of former Governor of Alaska? The latest news that’s taken the world by storm is the release of e-mails that were sent and received during her tenure as governor. More than 24,000 pages of e-mails were released ‘under the state public records law during the 2008 presidential election’ and even more are expected to be released in the following weeks. Just a storm in a teacup? We think so too!

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EVENT

RAISING A ‘GREEN’ TOAST Now into its second edition, Oman Green Awards 2011 has come of age as a platform to honour and appreciate outstanding environmental vision and achievements in the Sultanate. A report

T

he prestigious Oman Green Awards (OGA) 2011 were announced at Al Bustan Palace Hotel’s Majan Ballroom which turned into a virtual green zone against a tapestry of green messages. Over 20 companies, institutions and ministries made it to the victory podium, having proven their green intent through measures that had the larger interest of the society.

OGA 2011 was presided over by HE Mohammed bin Salim bin Said Al Toobi, Minister of Environment and Climate Affairs, His Highness Sayyid Tarik bin Shabib, Editor in Chief, Oman Economic Review, and Sandeep Sehgal, chief executive, United Media Services (UMS).

The OGA, conceptualised and initiated by UMS, and now into its second edition, was attended by a host of executives, institution heads and senior representatives from the corporate world.

Officials from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs, Muscat Municipality, Ministry of Health and Environment Society of Oman – main supporters of OGA 2011 – also attended the glittering awards ceremony.

OGA has earned recognition as a platform that honours and appreciates outstanding environmental vision and achievements in the Sultanate. It has, simultaneously, raised awareness to the larger cause of environment and has encouraged companies to work towards this goal.

HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, Oman, won the ‘Green Campaign’ award, with the special commendation going to Electricity Holding Company. ‘Green Champion’ award went to Renaissance Services and the special commendation to Green Cover. Caledonian College of Engineering grabbed the ‘Green Education’ award, while American British Academy (an IB World School) won the special commendation in the same category. For Haya Water it was the ‘Green Footprint’ award, along

with Cowi and Partners who picked the special commendation.

‘Green Habitat’ award went to Bank Muscat and the special commendation to Port of Salalah.

Mawarid Mining picked the ‘Green Innovation’ award, with the special commendation going to Al-Abrar Petrogas. On the landscape front, it was Muriya Tourism Development Co who got the ‘Green Landscape’ award and Sultan Qaboos University the special commendation for its ‘Central Control System for Irrigation Water Management Project’.

The Ministry of Tourism and Carillion Alawi won the ‘Green Guardian’ award and the special commendation, respectively. ‘Green Research’ award went to the Directorate General of Agricultural and Livestock Research at the Ministry of Agriculture, with Vale Oman Pelletising Company collecting the special commendation in the same category.

Panasonic received the maximum votes in the ‘Public Choice Award’. ‘Special Jury Award’ was picked by Petroleum Development of Oman and the Department of Soils, Water and Agricultural Engineering of Sultan Qaboos University.

Akshay Kumar Parija, Producer of ‘The Living Ghost’ received a special recognition in honour of his commendable work towards environment, through the entertainment media. ‘The Living Ghost’ has, previously, been nominated for an international film festival award at Cairo and the USA. Over 120 nominations were received in the different categories that had corporate houses and individuals vying for the coveted trophy.

The final results were collated on the basis of the marks given by an august panel of judges, who were guided by the effectiveness, innovation and creativity, impact, originality and leadership and continuity and sustainability of the initiatives nominated.

LIST OF WINNERS Green Campaign Award Winner: HSBC Bank Middle East Limited – Oman Special Commendation: Electricity Holding Company SAOC

Green Innovation Award Winner: Mawarid Mining LLC Special Commendation: Al-Abrar Petrogas LLC

Green Champion Award Winner: Renaissance Services SAOG Special Commendation: Green Cover

Green Landscape Award Winner: Muriya Tourism Development Co SAOG Special Commendation: Sultan Qaboos University for the Central Control System for Irrigation Water Management project

Green Education Award Winner: Caledonian College of Engineering Special Commendation: Aba-An IB World School

Green Guardian Award Winner: The Ministry of Tourism Special Commendation: Carillion Alawi LLC

Green Footprint Award Winner: Haya Water Special Commendation: Cowi & Partners LLC

Green Research Award Winner: Ministry of Agriculture-Directorate General of Agricultural & Livestock Research Special Commendation: Vale LLC

Green Habitat Award Winner: Bank Muscat SAOG Special Commendation: Port of Salalah

Public Choice Award Winner: Panasonic, Omasco

Special Jury Award: Winners: Petroleum Development Oman Sultan Qaboos University, Department of Soils, Water and Agricultural Engineering

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Sandeep Sehgal, CE, UMS

Lamees Daar, Executive Director, ESO

A cross section of the guests

HH Sayyid Tariq Bin Said receiving the Minister of Environment and Climate Affairs, HE Mohammed Al Toobi

HE Mohammed Al Toobi writing in the green pledge book

The Sultan’s School students performing a skit

A group shot of Oman Green Award winners, Green Oman partners and jury members

PEOPLE

ART OF LUXURY RETAIL NABIL DAUD, CEO OF RETAIL ARABIA INTERNATIONAL, ANSWERS DEEPA RAJAN’S QUESTIONS ON HIS COMPANY, PHILOSOPHY AND OF COURSE THE FINE ART OF LUXURY RETAIL

“The craftsmanship, knowhow and the story behind each brand creates its luxury hallmark. It is where you can expect a rich experience and deeper relationship between the consumer and the product,” says Nabil Daud. This philosophy reflects in the strategic partnerships that his company, Retail Arabia International, has forged with some of the best names in luxury retail today.

According to Daud, Retail Arabia International was established in 2007 as a new venture of Daud Investments. “Luxury Retail always was the next natural step to take for Daud Investment Group. We were and always are looking to move forward, improve and expand. The strategic focus of Retail Arabia International is to develop long term partnerships with retail brands where there are significant growth opportunities throughout the region.

He adds, “We have already established franchise partnerships with brands including Hamleys, Oscar de la Renta, David Morris, and House of Fraser and hope to expand further with our brand portfolio.

I felt very strongly about Oscar de la Renta and David Morris for the Middle East market as there was a large opportunity for these brands to grow in our region.”

But what makes Retail Arabia stand out from the rest, especially in the context of today’s competitive market?

Says Daud, “The brand portfolio we work to achieve is carefully handpicked and analysed for our market. We see ourselves as experts in the region not just as retailers but also as experts on our clientele.”

LUXURY MEANS… DESIRABILITY, EXCLUSIVITY WITH UNMATCHED QUALITY! 22

Daud takes immense pride in the fact that iconic brands such as House of Fraser, Oscar de la Renta, David Morris and Hamleys chose Retail Arabia as their Middle East partner. “It is an exciting time for us. Our partnership provides us with strong opportunities for growth in the market and Oman will be one of the next natural steps to move into with some if not all of our brands.We are constantly looking to grow our existing brands and also looking into bringing new brands in luxury fashion, lifestyle and entertainment. Oman is definitely on the top of the list and I would love to eventually become the retailer of choice in my home country.”

Retail Arabia’s current plans include the recently opened a shop-in-shop concept in Saks Fifth Avenue Riyadh. They have also signed a new location for the first stand-alone Oscar de la Renta boutique in KSA, which will also be in Riyadh (Centria Mall). The shop is expected to be launched on March 15, 2012. The company is also looking at opening further shops in Jeddah and Doha in 2012. And why not? Daud believes that there is still a large opportunity for growth in the GCC market for luxury retail and the demand will certainly not disappoint.

Someone once advised Daud that no matter what you do in life, “Never forget to have fun.”

An advice Daud seems to have followed not only in his personal life, but also in his professional life. After all, they say that a job ceases to be a job when you start enjoying every bit of it. That is what Daud does; he enjoys the challenges and the successes with equal ease. So, next time you walk into Hamleys, don’t be surprised to see Daud ‘playing’ away at his workplace. Says Daud “I go to Hamleys twice a week without fail just to PLAY!”

“IT IS ABOUT MANAGING PRIORITIES AND ENSURING THE IMPORTANT THINGS GET DONE. I TRY TO SURROUND MYSELF WITH POSITIVE, FOCUSED PEOPLE AND ENSURE HOWEVER BUSY I AM, I MAKE TIME FOR MY FAMILY.”

EVENT

CELEBRATING OMAN INC.

AIWA AWARDS 2011 FOR BEST PERFORMING COMPANIES FELICITATED TOP ACHIEVERS IN OMAN’S CORPORATE WORLD, ENCOURAGING THEM TO IMPROVE UPON THEIR PERFORMANCE AND STRENGTHEN THE NATIONAL ECONOMY

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op achievers in Oman’s corporate world were felicitated with AIWA Awards 2011 for Best Performing Companies at a gala event at ShangriLa Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. The awards have been instituted by Alam al-Iktisaad Wal A’mal (AIWA) Oman’s leading Arabic monthly business magazine, published by United Media Services (UMS).

Held under the auspices of HE Dr Rasheed bin Al Safi Al Huraibi, chairman, Tender Board and in association with Capital Market Authority, AIWA Awards 2011 attracted the top echelons of the corporate community and senior government officials in the Sultanate. The high profile event was powered by Voltamp, Vertu from Khimji’s Watches, BankMuscat, Hyundai Centennial and Samsung.

Delivering the key note address, HE Yahya Bin said Al Jabri, executive president, CMA says, “AIWA Awards reflect positively on the business environment and national economy apart from the winning companies. This award is an encouragement to the companies to become more competitive and improve upon their performance.

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Winners of AIWA Awards for Best Performing Companies LARGE CAP Ahli Bank Nawras Oman Oil Marketing BankDhofar Shell Oman Marketing

MID CAP Al Anwar Ceramic Tiles Muscat Finance Oman Refreshment A’Saffa Foods Al Omaniya Financial Ser.

This quest for leadership will ultimately strengthen the national economy.” On the occasion, UMS’ chief executive Sandeep Sehgal states, “Our endeavor behind AIWA Awards 2011 is to celebrate the success of Oman’s corporate sector that has continued to excel despite challenges from different quarters and has met its responsibilities towards the shareholders and society admirably.”

SMALL CAP Oman Chromite Muscat Gases Oman Fiber Optics Oman Chlorine Sahara Hospitality

The event was marked by an amazing display of violin playing in a bubble by a renowned international artist.

AIWA Awards 2011 was supported by Al Shabiba, Times of Oman, Sablat, Al Wisal, Merge FM, Ruwi Modern Printing Press (RMP), SPANCO, Gulf Brands and Mawarid Trading.

Khalfan Al Rahbi, Executive Editor, Alam al-Iktisaad Wal A’mal

HE Yahya bin Said Al Jabri, Executive President, CMA

AIWA Award for Excellence in Corporate Leadership – Omantel

AIWA Award for Excellence in Corporate Leadership – BankMuscat

AIWA Lifetime Achievement Award – Sheikh Suhail Salim Bahwan – received

by Salim Saad Bahwan AIWA Global Omani of the Year Award – Mohammed Al-Barwani

Unveiling of Jawharat Oman – which chronicles 40 Super Achievers of the Sultanate

Dazzling display of violin playing in a bubble

STOPOVER

SHOP:

SEE:

New York is larger than life: in population, in size, in culture and food, in arts and entertainment.

For those who are looking at cultural enlightenment start with the Paul Kasmin gallery, before ducking through Central Park to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Round out your afternoon with some off beat/experimental theater at the Abrons Art Center on the Lower East Side. Or spend some time in the hidden, restful Trinity Church cemetery, then cross to the Lower East Side where the Tenement Museum paints an evocative portrait of early migrant life on the island. Of course, no visit is complete with a stop at the masterpiece of Art Deco design, perhaps the most famous office building in the world, the Empire State Building. Neither is it advisable to miss the Statue of Liberty that has been a beacon in New York Harbour since 1886.

With her torch ablaze more than 300 feet (91.5m) above the ground, “Liberty Enlightening the World” (the statue’s official name) is only accessible via commercial ferries. The other places to visit include Ellis Island Immigration Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Guggenheim Museum, Top of the Rock™ & Rockefeller Center. It is a cliché, yes, but please do visit Times Square even if it is to admire the 37-foothigh (11.3m) NASDAQ sign — the largest LED sign in the world. A suggestion, your easiest way to see these places is to get yourself a New York CityPASS. CityPASS holders breeze past most mainentrance ticket lines, which means they get where they’re going while others are still waiting in the queue.

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I NY

New York City has the best shopping opportunities found anywhere on the globe. From clothing to electronics, media to toys, and so much more; the retail stores located in New York City are an essential attraction that must be seen and experienced. Well, there are your H&M and Zara and all other brands that you can think of. But, try shopping at the Grand Central Station. What?

Shop at a station? Well, it is much more than that, given retail and eating establishments structure including Kenneth Cole, Banana Republic, Oyster Bar & Restaurant, and more all exist under this always crowded transportation hub. For Basketball fans, the NBA Store is a must visit. Of course, how can you not shop at Saks Fifth Avenue. One of the signature stores of New York City, it would almost be a sacrilege not to visit Saks or this one that is called Tiffany & Co. Just the perfect place to get your significant other to buy you the most exquisite piece of jewellery (hint.. hint..) One of the top shopping destinations for those interested in current fashion trends is Barneys New York and then there is Bloomingdale’s. It is the quintessential New York City department store. Book lovers and music lovers, your quest for all things magnificent ends at the Strand Book Store and the Virgin Megastore respectively, while for all you people with kids, your quest shall lead you to FAO Schwarz. Other must visits include the Adidas Originals Store, the American Girl Place, the Apple Store SoHo, Bergdorf Goodman, Century 21, Macy’s, Madison Avenue…we could go on and on and on.

Start spreading the news, I am leaving today; I want to be a part of it - New york, New york; These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray; Right through the very heart of it - New york, New york…

STAY:

From luxury to budget, NYC offers a roof for everyone. Want to stay at Downtown?

Try the Greenwich Hotel for a luxurious stay or the expensive Hotel on Rivington.

The Jane and East Village Bed & Coffee offer you moderate and budget stays. For those wishing to rest their travellers’ feet, Midtown offers you the uber-luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, the Maritime Hotel, the moderately priced Ace Hotel and the budget Carlton Arms Hotel. So, you an Uptown girl/guy? Well, The Surrey, Marrakech and The Harlem Flophouse are all yours for the choosing. We recommend the Waldorf Astoria. It has a longstanding tradition of providing luxury and comfort to guests, ever since it opened in 1893. When the Waldorf Astoria first opened in its current location in 1931, it was the world's largest and tallest hotel.

Offering an extensive array of amenities to guests, the Waldorf Astoria continues its luxurious history to date.

EAT:

There are so many eating places in NY that you have to make innumerable trips to cover them all (We can’t commit to the number of trips you may have to make!) Let’s begin with the local markets.

The Greenmarket at Union Square is a haven for fresh food. Farmers from as far away as Vermont arrive at this outdoor market four times weekly, toting the freshest of produce. You can also roam the long corridor at Chelsea Market, stopping for lunch, pastries and other produce. Markets not your thing? Not to worry. Here’s a list of restaurants that will keep you busy; If you can cover them all in the limited amount of time, that is! NYC is home to many great restaurants where you will find different variety of delicious cuisines including Chinese, Japanese, French, Italian and American. Begin with Scarpetta (Italian), dine at Le Cirque Restaurant (French) or sample the wonders of American and French cuisine at Per Se. You can choose from Le Bernardin (sea food), Nobu New York (Japanese), Bouley, Jean Georges (located at the Trump international hotel)….the list is endless. Do try the Porchetta sandwich at Porchetta, the Squab at Corton, the Akamaru Modern ramen at Ippudo NY, or the Askinosie chocolate from Blue Apron Foods.Whatever you do, do not leave without eat ’em hot dogs from that friendly vendor on the busy street. It is NYC-stamped 100 per cent satisfaction guaranteed.

TRAVEL

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WOR

DOES EVERYONE KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER AND EVERY OTHER SUMMER? WELL, HERE ARE 10 LUXURIOUS WAYS TO CHANGE THOSE OPINIONS. SAIL ACROSS THE COTE D’AZUR, SHARE SLEDGE SPACE WITH ALASKAN DOGS, FOLLOW THE GREAT MAMMALS (WHALES) ACROSS THE ANTARCTIC, HEAR THE WHEELS OF A TRAIN MATCH THE ROARS OF THE AFRICAN LION, TAKE A DETOX VACATION OR HOST A TEA PARTY…

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THE RLD’S AN

TRAVEL

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CRUISE THE FRENCH RIVIERA The French Riviera, also known as Cote d’Azur, is the ideal destination for those looking for a combination of cultural experience, history and sailing. The Golden Islands offer a fantastic snorkeling experience in beautiful clear waters with their amazing array of flora and fauna. There are plenty of cities and villages to enjoy, with Monaco being a popular destination with its shopping, historical gems and other attractions. Although it is a busy and popular destination, having the luxury of escaping the crowds on the water is the ideal way to see the French Riviera. The best time of the year is from May to September. Hire yourself a Camper & Nicholsons’ superyacht Moonlight II (said to be the world's most expensive and luxurious yacht) and set sail for a summer experience like none other.

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GO SKIING IN DUBAI

The Southern and the Nothern hemisphere may not always be able to welcome guests, but Dubai certainly can. The city's sprawling Mall of the Emirates is home to the world's largest indoor ski arena, with five runs that vary in difficulty, height and steepness under one roof, including one trail that's 400m long with a drop of 60m, making it the world's first indoor black run. Continuing the winter theme, there’s an Olympic-sized ice rink at The Dubai Mall. Glide into a magical winter wonderland at Dubai Ice Rink.

Whether you want to learn skating, perfect your technique, play ice hockey, socialise with friends or just have a great time, this spectacular venue is the coolest place to hang out any time of the year.

TRAVEL

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SNOWBOARD THROUGH ALASKA There are many ways to see Alaska; snowboarding is one of them. Visit the Alyeska Ski Resort in scenic Girdwood, Alaska. Alyeska is the most popular snowboarding site in Alaska and offers snowboarding programmes for beginners and up. Check out Moose Mountain, near Fairbanks, which has over 1,250 feet of vertical slopes, with terrain that varies from beginner hills to more advanced, expert trails. Try Alpenglow at Arctic Valley (near Anchorage), famous for its snowboard parks. Also, the Glacier City Snowmobile Tours (snowtours.net) based in Girdwood, just south of Anchorage has the Real Deal Blue Ice Tour. This tour takes five hours to cross the snowy back country of Alaska's Chugach Mountains. Pass frozen waterfalls as you make your way to a glacier that's home to blue ice towers and snow caves.

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EXPLORE THE ANTARCTIC We are not kidding! Yes, we know all the travel guides in the world tell you to visit Antarctica between the ‘summer’ months of November and March. But, go on throw some caution to the wind and see what the ‘cold’ is really like. Pack up your woollens and head for the southern-most tip of the world. Tourists do not visit Antarctica during winter, when the pack ice extends its frozen mantle for 1000km around most of the continent. Better late than never, we say, considering the global climate changes may just erase the wonders of the Southern Hemisphere soon.

TRAVEL

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GO FESTIVAL HOPPING

The European summer can very well be Middle East’s winter. The pleasant weather plays perfect host to music festivals all across the continent. From sun-n-song in Spain to pop-npoetry in Suffolk, you can spend your summer hopping from one festival to the other. Let’s begin with the Exit Festival in Serbia. From its student-activist beginnings, Exit now sees Novi Sad’s Petrovaradin Fortress blare out four award-winning days of punk, rock, hip-hop, electronica and social comment. Freak out at Oxegen, Co Kildare, Ireland, where headliners include The Black Eyed Peas, Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Beyoncé, The Script, Arctic Monkeys and Slash. The Latitude, Southwold, England plays not just drum-bashing acts, but also a pot pourri of poetry, literature and comedy types. Jet set to some bopping by the beach at the Benicàssim festival in Spain. Other places on your itenary must include the Øya Festival, Oslo, Norway, the Sziget Festival, Budapest, Hungary, the Spirit of Burgas, Bulgaria, and the Berlin Festival, Germany.

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TAKE A TRAIN ACROSS AFRICA The charm of a train journey added to that the wonders of Africa: luxury travel takes on a different meaning altogether. Hop aboard the Pride of Africa, said to be the most luxurious train of the world, which takes you through the heart of Africa in opulence and style. It is a series of train journeys lasting from 24 hours to a fortnight that links some of Africa’s greatest destinations from Cape Town to Dares-Salaam, the game reserves of Mpumulanga to the Victoria Falls, the desert landscapes in Namibia, the lush cane fields of KwaZulu-Natal and the garden route along the Cape South Coast. Every modern comfort is available on ‘The Pride of Africa’; deluxe suites measure 118sqft while the Royal suites take up half a carriage. Victorian-style restaurant cars, room service, observation cars, the works – there’s no better way to see African than from this train.

TRAVEL

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BOOK YOURSELF AN ISLAND

There is no better way to de-stress than this one.

Just go out and rent your own island. Sir Richard Branson, owner of Virgin Atlantic Airways, is more than happy to share Necker Island, his northern Caribbean sanctuary, with you only for US$100,000 for a five-night stay. Branson's Necker Island, at the northeastern tip of the British Virgin Islands, was developed as a vacation home for the Branson family, but when they're not around, the 74-acre island is available for private rental. It has a 10-bedroom main house, three Balinese guest houses, three pools and a staff of 42. The island can accommodate 28 people, with all-inclusive rates based on time of year and number of guests, from US$20,000 to US$42,000 per night, with a five-night minimum. Or you can spend a few nights at Cayo Espanto in the turquoise waters off the coast of Belize for a mere US$1,095 per night. You can snorkel in front of your own villa. The western Caribbean island, which has been featured on ‘Dr. Phil’ and ‘Oprah’, has five houses; you can choose from villas or a bungalow ranging from US$1,095 to US$2,650 per night, including meals and drinks; the entire island rents for US$9,000 to US$13,000 nightly.

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GET A DETOX Come on admit it, you have always wanted to be waited on hand and foot, pampered to the ways of royals, being given luxurious baths and beauty treatments by a dozen handmaidens. Well, spas are the next best things; Specially spas that are among the world’s most luxurious ones in the world. No, you need not travel to Switzerland or Thailand. You have more exotic locales to choose from. The Como Shambhala Retreat at Parrot Cay (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos) should tickle the ‘seeker of the exotic’ in you. This tiny Caribbean island of Turks and Caicos offers you a retreat with fitness programmes that includes yoga, Pilates, and pranayama. Perfect for couples who want to meditate and have the exclusive privacy of their treatment rooms and Japanese baths. You can also choose the Hayman Island Resort (Great Barrier Reef, Australia), The Island Experience (Ilha Grande, Brazil), Maroma Resort and Spa (Riviera Maya, Mexico) and Terme di Saturnia Spa Resort (Saturnia, Italy).

Of course, if you do want to stick to tried and tested, look no further than the Soneva Gili & Six Senses Spa (The Maldives).

TRAVEL

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HOST A TEA PARTY Fly yourself and your family and loved ones to the Cliveden House in Berkshire, part of the von Essen hotel group, for the world’s most expensive afternoon tea - which carries a price tag of £550 (approximately US$900) per couple. The afternoon tea has been created by executive head chef Carlos Martinez. It includes white truffles at a £2s,500 per kg, Beluga Caviar at a massive £4,000 per kg and Da Hong Pao Tea, which is harvested from one thousand year old plants and is so rare that it costs over £2,000 per kg. In addition the afternoon tea contains the 'Cliveden House Chocolate Cake with Gold Leaf', which uses the most expensive chocolate in the world, Amedi Porcelana. The cake is paired with the most expensive coffee in the world, Kopi Luwak. This unique coffee is so rare that it costs an incredible £50 per cup. The hotel's Platinum Club Sandwich is also part of the menu. Priced at £100, the sandwich was von Essen's previous 'world's most expensive…' title.

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STAY IN A TREEHOUSE Not just any treehouse, mind you! These treehouses are among the most expensive and exclusive ones ever. You can stay at chic and modern The Highlife Tree house, a luxurious family home in the sky. It features two separate spaces, one for the children and one for the adults with a canopy walkway connecting the two. The Tree homes come complete with a custom kitchen, bathroom, and a large living area for entertaining. The children’s treehouse has a games room with media centre, and a cool zip wire for quick escape. The Mistle Toe Lodge- Amberley Castle Tree house is perfect for a romantic escapade. This beautiful and luxurious treehouse is situated among the Poplar trees at von Essen’s Amberley Castle in Sussex. Inside the treehouse is pure elegance with custom lighting and a gorgeous oak floor. It is the first treehouse in the UK to be licensed for weddings. Or choose the 1000sqft San Diego Treehouse, which was built as a weekend cabin. There is a huge list to choose from. All it takes is a bit of research and you can find yourself vacationing in a tree!

ACCESSORIES

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Fragrances, Forever DAVID CRICKMORE, CEO OF AMOUAGE, ON FRAGRANCES AND TRENDS…

of distribution are continually opening up as a result of the brand’s ever-growing international penetration and appeal,” says Crickmore.

In an interview, Crickmore answers questions about the Middle Eastern and international perfume markets, fragrances and trends According to you, which fragrances have influenced perfume history?

“Chanel No 5 has to be the most recognised fragrance the world over, although it is a shame that over the years it has changed so much. It was the first that really caught popular imagination and began the development of fragrances linked to couture houses. Then there are the fragrances that broke new boundaries over the years such as Angel by Thierry Mugler, the first to use chocolate notes.

Of course I would be especially interested in the development of niche brands begun really

by Annick Goutal. Serge Lutens soon followed gaining respect in the consumer world and Amouage and Clive Christian took niche into the luxury goods arena. All niche brands have had a huge influence on the consumers seeking more unusual fragrances.”

D

avid Crickmore has been in the luxury goods industry for 29 years and has worked with leading brands such as Ozwald Boateng, Duchamp and Farlows. He has also held senior positions with Pringle, Nautica and Alfred Dunhill. He joined Amouage as its CEO in 2006 and since then has been steering the brand into waters of international success.

Crickmore is responsible not only for the

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complete re-evaluation of the brand, but also its re-launch, which coincided with the beginning of Amouage’s Silver Anniversary year in November 2007. Key to this reassessment were the core messages of Amouage: luxury, quality, individuality and authority in the millennia-old traditions of Arabian perfumery and gift giving.

In 2010, Amouage celebrated the opening its first international mono brand store in the United Arab Emirates located in Dubai Mall, which was followed by a second store in London’s eponymous district of Knightsbridge “This is a clear reflection that our message is getting through internationally and that new avenues

What are the main differences between fragrances created for the Western market and the Middle Eastern market?

“Historically the Middle Eastern market has been all about heavy, oud and animalic based Orientals. This however is beginning to change and the sophisticated, international Middle Eastern consumer has now blurred the distinction between the regions. Brands such as Tom Ford, By Kilian and of course Amouage now appeal equally across all markets.”

How does the international customer perceive Amouage vis-à-vis a cult fragrance such as Chanel No 5?

“The international consumer perceives Amouage as an international brand and no longer seeks to pigeonhole it into being mainly Arabic, which of course it isn’t and indeed never was. The fact it is based in Oman means it is

the only luxury brand from the Gulf to be internationally recognised and accepted and of that we are very proud.”

Over the last few years, how has the international consumer reacted to the Middle Eastern fragrances?

“The last few years has seen an increased interest in more exotic and more interesting fragrances amongst discerning international consumers. I believe this is in reaction to the celebrity fragrances and the huge number of launches by the big groups every year. Sophisticated consumers are returning to the roots of perfume creation in the modern era and want a fragrance that is more challenging than the weak ones that have been proliferated by the large groups. They also want value and so many hastily put together fragrances do not last these days and they realise that they are not getting their money’s worth. Interestingly some typically Arabic fragrance notes such as oud have become important recently, although that trend is now nearing its end.

One has to wonder however whether these were genuinely creative decisions or ones prompted by commercial considerations.

Essential oils, used so often for many years in the Middle East, have also had a resurgence in the West and the single note fragrances show a nod too in that direction.”

What are the latest trends in the fragrance industry and what kind of fragrances do you see becoming popular in the coming days?

“New brands continue to evolve and we are seeing the resurgence of independent brands that are not part of the huge conglomerates that dominate the mass prestige market in perfumes today. This is a very positive step as the consumer is becoming more astute when choosing and considering fragrances. I mentioned previously how oud based Oriental fragrances were very strong for the last few years but now we believe there is a move back to softer, warmer notes coupled with a greater interest in more natural perfumes.

Obviously I don’t want to dwell on this question too long to tell our competitors what we think of trend, but what I can say is that the Creative Director is going back into the kitchen to investigate some of the smells evident there!”

Signs of a great perfume...

“The signs of a great perfume to me is that is has a voice, that it is instantly recognisable and that it has staying power.

In Amouage we always aim to achieve all three, but so many fragrances today fail on one or more of those crucial aspects. A great perfume not only has longevity on the skin but also longevity in the market place.

Those that have been around for several years are all classics in their own right and this is what makes them special since so many fragrances come and go waxing and waning with trend. At Amouage we try to make our own trend rather than slavishly follow the fickle fashion for any given fragrance genre or note.”

In your perspective, how does one go about choosing a scent?

“Choosing the right fragrance is ultimately a very personal decision and can be an extremely time consuming process. It must blend well with your individual personality but also suit your varying moods.”

Never choose a fragrance without trying it on your skin first; it differs from one person to another due to body chemistry. Let the fragrance settle for a few minutes so that the various notes unfold and you attain a more holistic perspective of the scent.

A common mistake people make is rubbing the fragrance once sprayed on the wrist.

This only ruins the composition and distorts its beauty.

Your favourite scents and why?

“My favourite fragrances have changed over time and obviously I can only talk about men’s as they are personal to my taste. When I was young I loved Vetiver by Guerlain. The freshness of it always made me feel energised and it really had staying power. Sadly the current fragrance bears little relation to those early years and so I don’t wear it much now. I then went down a much stronger route and for a period loved Givenchy Gentleman, quite a heavy Oriental. Again I liked its staying power.

Chanel Pour Homme was next as I moved towards more citrus based notes. Commes de Garcon’s Incense D’Avignon was another favourite – so heavily frankincense based, it smelt like a church. Lately however I have only worn Amouage and of those it is almost impossible to pick a favourite. “ Right now, today, my favourite is the one I am wearing – Honour – the new fragrance to be launched this month. Of course I would say that but genuinely I love its freshness and the woodiness of the base. I firmly believe it will be a winner wherever Amouage is sold around the world – a truly international fragrance!”

AMOUAGE HONOUR MAN

CATEGORY: SPICY / WOODY Top Notes: Pink Pepper, Black Pepper Heart Notes: Geranium, Elemi, Nutmeg Base Notes: Patchouli, Frankincense, Cedarwood, Vetiver, Tonka Beans, Musk

AMOUAGE HONOUR WOMAN CATEGORY: WHITE FLORAL Top Notes: Pepper, Rhubarb Leaves, Coriander Heart Notes: Jasmine, Tuberose, Gardenia, Lily of the Valley, Carnation Base Notes: Vetiver, Frankincense, Amber, Opoponax, Leather

will send you into the world of Giacomo Puccini’s ‘Madame Butterfly’. A tribute to opera’s perennial classics, this fifth installment authored by Christopher Chong, Creative Director – Amouage, tells the timeless tale of love and love and betrayal, hope and despair. It evokes engrossing intrigue and infinite pathos of the final aria ‘Con Onor Muore’ which means, ‘To Die with Honour’. Quite simply put, Honour is ‘music’ for your olfactory senses!

Available at all Amouage outlets in the city

A WHIFF OF THIS

ACCESSORIES

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SMELLS LIKE BLISS… SOME ‘SIGNATURE’ FRAGRANCES TO DOUSE YOURSELF WITH THIS SUMMER…

DOLCE & GABBANA LIGHT BLUE POUR HOMME

CATEGORY: AROMATIC FOUGÈRE Top Notes: Juniper, bergamot, grapefruit and Sicilian mandarin Heart Notes: Sichuan pepper, rosemary, rosewood Base Notes: Incense, musk wood, and oak

DOLCE & GABBANA LIGHT BLUE POUR FEMME CATEGORY: FRUITY-FLORAL Top Notes: Sicilian cedar, apple, bluebell Heart Notes: Bamboo, jasmine, white rose Base Notes: Citron wood, amber, musk.

is evocative of the sun, sea and sensuality of the Mediterranean. A tribute to Mediterranean seduction, Light Blue, one of the most celebrated scents of the past ten years, has proved its ability to seduce and thrill is as potent now as it was a decade ago as passion and perfection collide with exhilarating intensity. Douse oneself in aromas of sparkling summer days yielding to evocative evenings in the land of sun and sea

A WHIFF OF THIS

For details contact Muscat Pharmacy Perfumes and Cosmetics outlets across the city

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GUCCI GUILTY MAN

CATEGORY: AROMATIC FOUGÈRE Top Notes: Italian lemon and mandarin with crushed green leaves, pink pepper Heart Notes: Lavender, cardamom, orange flower and neroli Base Notes: Patchouli, cedar and sandal wood

A WHIFF OF THIS

will have women swooning all around. A sequel to the Gucci Guilty for Her, The Gucci Guilty hero is a modern maverick, a charismatic alpha male young, fearless and a go-getter!

For details contact Muscat Pharmacy Perfumes and Cosmetics outlets across the city

CHANEL COCO MADEMOISELLE Top notes: Sicilian oranges, Calabrian bergamot and Sicilian grapefruit.

Heart Notes: pure rose extract and pure jasmine extract, litchi, Base Notes: Indonesian patchouli, Haitian vetiver, Bourbon vanilla, white musk

A WHIFF OF THIS

leaves you feeling sexy and fresh. It is a tribute to the irrepressible spirit of the young 'Coco' Chanel.

Everything about it spells luxury, even the classic bottle. Like all Chanel fragrances, this one follows you throughout the day . . . or evening allowing you to leave a lasting impression on people

Available at Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Stores, Ruwi & Qurum

DIOR ADDICT TO LIFE WOMAN CATEGORY: FLORAL Top Notes: Pomegranate, raspberry and peach Heart Notes: Rose, jasmine and lily of the valley Base Notes: Cedar and white musk

A WHIFF OF THIS

is enough for people to turn around and take notice of you. This new edition of the original Dior Addict perfume (2002) is for the woman of today. She lives life to the fullest and follows her heart. It’s for a woman who is as feisty and as feminine as the concoction is!

Available at Capital Store outlets

ACCESSORIES

ISSEY MIYAKE L’EAU D’ISSEY POUR HOMME

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CATEGORY: AQUATIC Top Notes: Citrus accords of Yuzu and Mandarin.

Heart Notes: cardamom, sage Base Notes: Vetiver, ambergris

ISSEY MIYAKE L’EAU D’ISSEY CATEGORY: ACQUATIC Top Notes: Rose and Pear Water Heart Notes: Peony, carnation.

Base Notes: Osmanthus, wood

only manages to make you more devoted to Issey Miyake. Issey Miyake seems to understand summer fragrances like no other brand. Both summer edition fragrances (him and her) are inspired by an exotic paradise of crystal clear lagoons, white sand, turquoise pools and tropical corals Available at all Capital Store outlets

A WHIFF OF THIS

NINA L’ELIXIR

CATEGORY: FRUITY/FLORAL Top Notes: Calabria lemon and Caipirinha lime Heart Notes: red toffee apple, jasmine and red berries Base Notes: Amber, cedar wood, cotton musk is a fairy-tale come true. The new Nina augments the Nina line in an adorable apple-shaped bottle. The new Nina transports us with refreshing innocence into a musical fairytale. You feel like a modern princess, doused with the sophisticated and natural charm of Nina Ricci femininity.

A WHIFF OF THIS

CAROLINA HERRERA CH L’EAU

CATEGORY: FLORAL/FRUITY Top Notes: lemon, orange, freesia Heart Notes: rose, violet, jasmine, lily of the valley Base Notes: heliotrope, cinnamon, sandalwood sends you into the gardens of Spring. Airy and bright, CH L’Eau offers a fresh and delicate aura that is youthful, yet devoid of the brashness of youth. It is more like a sophisticated poise that leaves the wearer feeling elegantly coy! A special mention: We love the lovely pendant featuring the brand’s insignia that hangs over the bottle

A WHIFF OF THIS

Available at Salam Studio & Stores, Qurum 44

Available at Salam Studio & Stores, Qurum

THIERRY MUGLER ALIEN SUNESSENCE AMBER GOLD EDITION CATEGORY: FLORAL/AMBER Top Notes: Kiwi Heart Notes:Vanilla, Stanhope orchids.

Base Notes: Wood-amber combination

reveals the sun goddess within you. Alien Sunessence Amber Gold Edition is a dazzling fragrance that captures the intense golden power of the Summer sun. This gold comes to life and dances in a whirl of amber shades: transforming the amulet bottle with its radiance and sublimates it with a new olfactory opulence

A WHIFF OF THIS

Available at Capital Store outlets

THIERRY MUGLER A*MEN PURE HAVANE CATEGORY: WOODY Top Notes: Fresh tobacco leaves Heart Notes: Honeyed tobacco chord with syrupy and vanilla tones Base Notes: Patchouli and bitter cacao

BLEU DE CHANEL CATEGORY: WOODY AROMATIC Top Notes: Pink Pepper, citrus accord, vetiver Heart Notes: Grapefruit, dry cedar notes, labdanum Base Notes: Frankincense, ginger, sandalwood

is wafting smells of Havana cigars. The new limited edition A*Men takes you to the world of Havana aficionados and the savoir-faire of prestigious cigars. After all the art of appreciating cigars is unique and greatly resembles that of appreciating a signature perfume!

Available at Capital Store outlets

A WHIFF OF THIS

is pure bliss. A simple yet spectacular concoction, Bleu De Chanel is for the independent spirit in men that evokes notions of masculine identity and freedom Available at Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Stores, Ruwi

A WHIFF OF THIS

BOSS ORANGE MAN CATEGORY: SPICY/WOODY Top Notes: Crisp Apple, Coriander, Heart Notes: Vanilla, Frankincense Base Notes: Burbinga Wood

A WHIFF OF THIS

will leave you feeling all fresh and free-spirited. The Boss Orange Man is the companion to the already released Boss Orange Woman. A lasting fragrance, it is perfect for that the man-about-town look. No wonder Orlando Bloom decided to endorse this one!

Mawarid Trading Oman are the sole distributors for Hugo Boss fragrances, which are available in all major retail outlets in the Sultanate

ACCESSORIES

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SUMMER CHIC

ALINA BABADJANOVA, CLARINS’ REGIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST, GIVES YOU TIPS TO KEEP LOOKING ‘COOL’ THIS SUMMER…

It’s summer time - time for some rest, relaxation, fun and frolic; time for many a pleasure, but melting makeup, sliding eyeliner, and supersticky lipstick are not among them. In hot weather, applying your makeup should be as simple and comfy as putting on your favourite pair of jeans and flip-flops. But the heat and humidity are a challenge, so you have to make a few little changes to your routine. That’s why we asked Clarins regional makeup artist to put together some useful tips to keep you fresh, pretty and glowing this summer…

Bronze is the way to go A perfectly tanned, bronze skin with healthy radiant glow is the way to go. You can easily create this look by using Clarins’ Skin Illusion Foundation that allows sheer coverage and glowing finish, looking like second skin. This natural finish and coverage perfectly works for the summer because, we don’t need to overload our skin with heavy foundation. To get a bronze look, you can use Mosaique Summer Bronzing Compact.

Vibrant Hues You can use bright colours either on eyes or lips.

For everyday use, apply Clarins new Colour Quench Lip Balm. It is a tined moisture balm which delivers a strong colour. Plant base extracts are hydrating and protecting the lips.

Eyes can be lined with colourful Waterproof eye pencil which stays all day long especially at summer when we need to use something more long lasting. Clarins Water proof mascara is also a best thing to use during summer time, it contains plants extracts which takes care of the lashes and delivers intensive black colour.

Go Waterproof During summer period our main challenge is to make sure that the makeup lasts long. The hot weather of course makes that tough to achieve.

The best solution is to use water resistant products like Instant Light Eye Perfecting Base, which holds the eyeshadow for minimum of eight hours. Another unique product which holds makeup together is Fix Makeup. This spray hydrates and refreshes the skin and provides a long lasting hold and fixes the makeup.

Take care of your skin It is also very important to use right skin care products. Clarins Hydra quench Range suits all skin types. Hydraquench BI Phase Serum is a perfect solution for a very dehydrated skin. Do not forget to splash water on your face from time to time.

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THE SKIN GLOSS-ARY PRESENTING SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE SUMMER COSMETICS AND SKINCARE PRODUCTS…

Its star active ingredient, Camellia Alba PFA, joins forces with Blue Ginger PFA and hyaluronic acid of low molecular weight to reveal denser, plumper skin with no oily sensation. It’s ultra-fine, pearly white texture instantly disappears into the skin. Its fruity notes (white peach, watermelon) release a lovely burst of freshness before the unsuspected arrival of the floral heart (jasmine, peony, cyclamen, etc.) and the caress of the powder, musky woody base.

We Love

That it is designed for all skin types, all ages and all climates. It gives your skin a fresh healthy glow, day and night

The Chanel Range is available at Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Store, Ruwi and Qurum

Image courtesy: Chanel

CHANEL HYDRA BEAUTY SERUM

ACCESSORIES

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LES FLEURS D’ÉTÉ DE CHANEL

It is an oasis of colours quivering in the morning dew.

Inspired by summer gardens, this collection is a flourishing luxuriant palette, swept by a breeze of lightness. This summer make-up collection consists of Soleil Tan de Chanel (moisturizing Bronzing Powder), Les 4 Ombres (Quadra Eye Shadows), Levres Scintillantes (Glossimers for the lips), and Le Vernis (Nail Colour).

Image courtesy: Chanel

We Love

That the colours are fresh and juicy and muted to perfection in contrast to the bright summer sun.

Just perfect for that subtle look of elegance to help you dazzle all day long

The Chanel Range is available at Khimji’s Luxury & Lifestyle Store, Ruwi and Qurum

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DIOR BRONZE 2011

Developed by the Dior Innovation Centre, the Dior Bronze sun care range ensures optimal protection from sun damage whilst allowing the skin to benefit from a beautiful, natural golden suntan. Indulge in a moment of intense pleasure with five new Dior Bronze sun care products that include the Crème Protectrice Sublimante Face (SPF15 and SPF30) for the face; the Voile de Monoï Sublimant, Body (SPF10), the Lait Protecteur Sublimant, Body (SPF15) and Crème Protectrice Sublimante, Body (SPF30) That Dior, which has been a favourite with us for its face and body skincare products, has now entered the sun care arena with a heavyweight such as the Dior Bronze. A perfect combination of expert skin protection and a lasting suntan that is easy on the eyes

We Love

The Dior range is available at Capital Store, Qurum

DIOR ELECTRIC TROPICS Reflecting Dior Spring/Summer 2011 collection is Dior’s summer makeup collection, which invites you on a mesmerising journey into the Tropics. This makeup look highlights the contrast between bold neon colours and sun-kissed skin. The collection consists of Dior Vernis electric nails in two new must-have fluorescent shades, the Dior Addict Crystal Gloss that coats the lips in incredible crystal summer shine, the Diorskin Nude Glow (Enhancer, the Fluid and the Powder); and the Dior 5 Couleurs for that radiance boost to the eyes.

The outlandish hues that complement the tropical summers and also the fact that it balances the fine line between the flamboyant and the subtle. Just what a Dior Look is all about!

We Love

The Dior range is available at Capital Store, Qurum

ACCESSORIES

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GUERLAIN TERRA INCA COLLECTION

Colour-drenched to perfection, the ultra-trendy Terra Inca collection showers you with colours ranging from ocean blue, flamboyant orange and ardent browns. The Guerlain Summer 2011 Makeup Collection includes the Terra Inca Star Powder, Terre Indigo 4-Shade Eyeshadow, Ombre Fusion Cream Eyeshadow, Terracotta Gloss, and Khol Kajal. The Star of the collection, however, is the Terra Inca powder that embellishes the complexion and warms the skin with an iridescent glow making it the ‘it’ accessory of the summer!

We Love

The ‘Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Raincoat’ effect. Sensual and light, adventurerous and exotic, the collection makes getting through summer a breeze…

The Guerlain range is available at Capital Store, Qurum

SENSAI HYDRACHANGE TINTED GEL CREAM

The cream is enriched with hydrachange complex to accelerate the production of hyaluronic acid for firmer, plumper, more radiant skin. Designed to deeply moisturise, its hydrophilic gel formula has a rich jelly-like texture to enhance elasticity and seal moisture into the skin. As you apply it, a soft sweep of pigment is released for a light, translucent finish and beautifully luminous skin.

We Love

The hint of colour, and the sheer veil of moisture that gently tints the skin to perfection

Mawarid Trading Oman are the sole distributors for Sensai from Kanebo International in Oman. The range is available at Areej Muscat City Center, Capital store, Qurum, Salam Studio & Stores, Muscat Pharmacy’s Perfumes and cosmetics, Jawaharat al Shatti and Sahwa Towers

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BOURJOIS BIO-DETOX ORGANIC PERFECTING POWDER

The Bio-detox Organic Perfecting Powder has been formulated with 100 per cent natural ingredients. It creates a matt effect on the complexion, erases the imperfections and refines the pores. Its formula is enriched with plant chlorophyll oxygenating and anti-pollution and purifies the skin contains flaxseed powder to absorb shine without clogging pores and its ultra-fine texture, micronized, guarantees a perfect and natural results with no thickness. It comes in six shades and comes encased in a sober and elegant powder case.

The panoramic mirror inside the powder case that We Love can rotate 360 degrees and provides optimal application. And the fact that it is made from 100 per cent natural ingredients has us going back for more Mawarid Trading Oman are the sole distributors for Bourjois range of products, which are available in all major retail outlets in the Sultanate

BOURJOIS NEW VOLUME GLAMOUR MAX MASCARA

Its 16-hour hold ultra volumising formula with black pearl extract builds amazing body on lashes and fully coats them with an intense and luminous black. Its new rounded full contact blush fully reaches out and coats the entire fringe of lashes. Its supple, smoothing and lavish fibres capture every single lash, even the smallest and the finest ones. It has a special maximum 24-hour hold waterproof formula that makes it ideal for summer make-up.

We Love

The fact that it is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers and its revamped volume glamour pack with a rounded shape that gives it a look of feminine elegance

Mawarid Trading Oman are the sole distributors for Bourjois range of products, which are available in all major retail outlets in the Sultanate

ACCESSORIES

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DOLCE & GABBANA SECRET EYES MASCARA

This could very well be your secret weapon to defined long, ultra-feminine lashes. Called the Secret Eyes Mascara, it lengthens, defines and transforms lashes with delicacy and precision.

Inspired by Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce’s ultimate vision for a complete colour cosmetic collection that embraces duality, the advanced technology and luxurious quality produce a formula containing minerals for superb buildable coverage and optimum smudge-proof polymers to create enduring transcendent looks.

Texture is silky and luxuriant. The mascara is available in two select shades: black and coffee.

We Love

DOLCE& GABBANA SWEET TEMPTATIONS COLLECTION

With all the bitter sweet perfection of deep, dark chocolate, the Dolce&Gabbana Sweet Temptations Collection tantalises and titillates, exuding temptation and all the while maintaining the highest quality and deepest desire. The palette is lush, ultra-modern with sumptuous browns, sinful shimmering neutrals, warm honeys, sugar sweet nudes and poetic pinks. The collection consisits of Nail Lacquer in Chocolate; Eyeshadow Duo in Cinnamon and the Eyeshadow Quad in candied peach-pinks and rich glistening browns of Cocoa; Eyeliner in Green Almond; High Shine Lip Gloss in Praline and a Lipstick Duo of Classic Cream in Cinnamon and Shine in Almond.

Anything that Scarlett Johansson is attached to (including her dishy exes!). The woman sure has taste. We also adore the ‘chocolate’ hues and the ‘sly-charmof-the-Mediterranean’ effect that the collection creates

We Love

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The divine texture and the slim elongated mascara brush that works perfectly at extending each individual lash giving you the sultry and sensuous look

www.radiomerge.fm

Oman’s hippest music station, offering you the coolest sounds from around the world. Dig on Diggweed and dance to Oakenfold. From the headquarters of Hed Kandi to the global sounds of Armin Van Buren. Freshen up your day and sweeten your night with Merge 104.8.

THE STYLE FILES

BEAT THE HEAT

WARDROBE CHECK STEPHANIE PHAIR, DIRECTOR OF THEOUTNET.COM, SPELLS OUT THE TOP 10 SUMMER WARDROBE ESSENTIALS FOR WOMEN

AMINAKA WILMONT PRINTED SILK-TWILL DRESS A print is a summer essential for any wardrobe.

I love this abstract one by Aminaka Wilmont and the asymmetric cut is extremely flattering – just add a skinny belt to define your waist

HERVÉ LÉGER CHAIN-EMBELLISHED BANDAGE MESH DRESS White is for spring what camel was for fall. In other words, it’s the colour of the season. The silver chain embellishments on this dress add interest. Wear with nude or colour-pop accessories

ALEXANDER WANG TAI SNAKESKINEFFECT BOX BAG This snake-effect bag by Alexander Wang is the perfect accent for summer’s bold brights, whites and fluoro colours

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VANESSA BRUNO RAMIE LACE-FRONT TOP The 70’s is a huge runway trend this summer and the peasant blouse is a key piece with one-shoulder, long sleeved and cropped options all available. This one by Vanessa Bruno has an intricate lace front which is another must-buy trend now

ERIN FETHERSTON EDITH LEATHER AND LACE JACKET ORIGINAL PRICE One of my top shopping tips is to choose a multi-brand retailer because you might discover a label you weren’t aware of. Erin Fetherston is a cool up-and-coming New York designer and this leather and lace jacket nods to two key looks of the season

CATHERINE MALANDRINO PERFORATED PLEATED LEATHER SKIRT Another look to invest in is pleats and folds. All this olive-green leather mini skirt by Catherine Malandrino needs is a simple tee and a great pair of flat sandals to complete the look

DANNIJO GOLD-PLATED BEAD-EMBELLISHED BIB NECKLACE You can bring any outfit up to date in an instant with accessories, which are usually hard to find at discount because they are so popular at full price. Do the unexpected and wear this Dannijo bib necklace during the day with a simple tee

BALMAIN SEQUIN-EMBELLISHED SILK TOP Fashion's obsession with metallics, sequins and sparkle shows no sign of waning and no one does it better than Balmain! Mix super-embellished pieces with more casual pieces like denim for modern glamour

HALSTON HERITAGE PLEATED LAMÉ DRESS Keeping to the 70’s theme, Halston was one of the era-defining designers, making it the perfect buy for this summer. This dress from diffusion line Halston Heritage is a high-octane take on 70’s glamour. Slip on your highest heels, but keep other accessories to a minimum.

ISSA SEQUINED SILK-JERSEY DRESS Animal print is always on trend, always a classic and always in style making this Issa sequindrenched cut-out dress a great investment

All items available on www.theoutnet.com

THE STYLE FILES

BEAT THE HEAT

GET THE LOOK

TOBY BATEMAN, BUYING DIRECTOR OF MRPORTER.COM, PICKS THE 10 SUMMER ESSENTIALS FOR MEN

A casual warm-weather essential, team the Acne striped tie-dye effect tee-shirt with your favourite denim for a relaxed off-duty look The perfect weekend bag: Bottega Veneta green leather weekend bag with woven detail on the seams and handle, a central zip, interior pockets and a cotton lining

In soft taupe, the Alfred Dunhill sand twill cotton chinos are an effortless style choice. A failsafe style option for weekends and a winner with checks and bold shades

Combining Balmain's nonchalant Parisian aesthetic with an Oliver People’s take on L.A. luxury, Balmain’s aviator sunglasses will lend any look an instant hit of unmistakable cool

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PS by Paul Smith leather belt is an easy way to add a dash of smart colour to your outfit; wear with khaki or green cotton trousers and a light shirt - keep the hue simple and let the belt pop

Navy and white striped cotton Jil Sander polo shirt has a contrasting square of light blue stripe detail.

Polo shirts are a great casual item, but can also be dressed up under a blazer or with a suit

Grey washed leather Yves Saint Laurent mid top sneakers with a perforated 'Y' motif on the toe, rigid ankle detail, perforated sides and rubber soles. In washed elephant gray, this footwear is modern and luxurious

These Balenciaga leather sandals help you dress down for summer with a rolled leg chino and fine gauge knit

Exclusive limited edition white midlength Orlebar Brown swim shorts with an embroidered Alan Aldridge illustration, 'Third Eye Trip'. The shorts have two slant pockets, one zipped back pocket, adjustable side tabs, a press-stud closure and zip fly. Cut for a stylish fit, wear from the pool to a lowkey lunch for distinctive statement style

The sharp cut and high quality construction make these Levi's 1967 505 worn-effect selvedge denim jeans in a dark wash, slim straight leg, zipped fly and worn details at the thigh, knee, seat and waist a go-anywhere staple. An effortless choice to take you from a casual day into the evening All items available at www.mrporter.com

CARS

POWER OF THE ATOM

THE ARIEL ATOM HAS ALWAYS BEEN ONE OF OUR FAVOURITE CARS, PRIMARILY DUE TO ITS SIMPLICITY AND PURE AUTOMOTIVE THRILLS. THE SMALL SOMERSET COMPANY HAS SPENT THAT LAST THREE YEARS DEVELOPING A NEW BEAST AND IT’S CALLED THE ATOM V8.

IT OFFERS A POWER TO WEIGHT RATIO PREVIOUSLY FOUND ONLY IN SINGLE SEAT RACE CARS. THIS GIVES IT UNPARALLELED LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE MAKING IT THE ULTIMATE TRACK DAY CAR

THE ENGINE

THE CHASSIS

The centrepiece of the Atom V8 is the lightweight 3ltr normally aspirated engine. It utilises a flat plane crank, forged pistons, chain driven double overhead cam with 4 valves per cylinder and revs to a blistering 10,500 rpm. Simply put, the all alloy and aluminium engine has race car specification throughout. Dry sump lubrication, eight throttle bodies with sequential fuel injection and ceramic coated stainless exhaust are all part of the standard specification and, due to the compact nature of the engine, the installation fits perfectly in to the tiny Atom engine bay. To add a personal touch, each engine is individually tested, signed off and numbered to match the number of the car.

One of the most striking features of any Atom is the absence of bodywork and the exposed chassis.

This uniqueness is taken to new levels with the V8.

It now has additional structural braces in the engine compartment and is finished in a special gold powder coat that is exclusive to the limited edition V8 cars.

Proven over many years the Atom chassis is not only light and structurally superb but also gives outstanding levels of occupant protection. Bodywork on the V8 is a mixture of composite woven cloth and carbon fibre with front and rear adjustable carbon fibre aerofoils as standard.

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The Attom is a track-focused car through and through, and the interior reflects this with aplomb.

An all new LCD display has shift light, gear position and programmable functions to show a range of car and engine information. Main functions are set to display continuously and the driver can scroll through the information if required.

These include everything from the air, water, oil and gearbox temperatures to fuel, oil and manifold pressures. Behind the paddle change sits a new panel housing the normal Atom controls plus tiered switchgear for adjustable traction and launch controls, wet/dry settings, gearbox settings and the aforementioned LCD display and menu functions. There is even a data logging facility built into the Atom that gives as much information as required by the driver.

THE TRANSMISSION

PERFORMANCE The ability to carry out flat upshifts without lifting the throttle coupled with race specification components reflect the extraordinary levels of performance that the car offers. With over 500bhp available the Atom V8 has a power to weight ratio in excess of 900bhp per tonne. (Ferrari Enzo 434bhp per tonne, Bugatti Veyron 530bhp per tonne, GP2 single seater 850bhp per tonne). The Atom sets a new standard in track day cars by offering the most remarkable acceleration seen in a production vehicle ever. The time for 0-60mph run takes just 2.3secs and 100mph in 5.4secs, topping off at an astounding 200mph.

The car is driven through a Sadev six-speed sequential race gearbox with adjustable limited slip differential and gearsets to suit individual customer choice. The gear change takes place via a paddle airshift system which makes up-changes in 40 milliseconds and down-changes in 50 milliseconds with the capability of five downshifts in less than a second. Furthermore, the programmable nature of the system allows Ariel to build in safeguards for customers plus have an auto up-shift and cued down-shift capability.

THE SUSPENSIONS

THE INTERIOR

For the driver who wants to set the car up for different uses, different tracks and personal preferences, the atom V8 has the perfect setup. The inboard pushrod suspension of the standard Atom has been uprated for the V8 with chromoly aerofoil section wishbones and pushrods coupled with magnesium wheels to reduce unsprung weight. Dampers and springs have been developed specifically for the Atom V8 and feature lightweight aluminium monotubes with remote reservoirs giving three-way individual adjustment (high speed compression, low speed compression, rebound) which is coupled with a unique four-way spring stiffness adjuster.

LISTEN

MUSICALLY YOURS THE MUSIC SCENE IS BUBBLING WITH SOME GREAT RELEASES. HERE ARE SOME THAT WE ARE TOTALLY STOKED ABOUT…

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Time of my Life 3 Doors Down With tracks like When You’re Young and Every Time You Go, their fifth studio album is sure to be as good, if not better, than their previous albums

When The Sun Goes Down Selena Gomez and the Scene The first single from the album, Who Says, has already become a fast favourite. We simply can’t wait for the rest!

All Of You Colbie Caillat The songs in Colbie’s third studio album are mainly inspired by her blossoming relationship with Justin Young. Can’t wait to listen to this one!

Dedicated to Chaos Queensrÿche Queensrÿche have certainly pushed boundaries with this album while focussing heavily on ‘restructured’ rhythms (bass and drums)

4 Beyoncé Even before its release, 4 has been making waves throughout the world. It’s obvious now, who run the world? Beyoncé!

Red River Blue Blake Shelton Featuring his fastest selling single (138,000 digital singles in a week), ‘Honey Bee’, Blake’s new album is rather up-beat and perfect for the summer

If not now, when?

Incubus As always, Incubus’ latest offering is a union of all things eclectic. With a distinctly evolved sound, their seventh studio album holds much promise

Panic of Girls Blondie Their latest album has a more contemporary twist while at the same time staying true to their roots. A must-listen!

Neon Chris Young One of the best things to happen to country music in a while, Chris Young’s album Neon is sure to bring him the recognition that he rightly deserves

What it’s all about Pat Metheny This gem of an album comprises 10 classic songs that ‘hold personal meanings for the guitarist’.

We reckon it’s going to be a masterpiece

WATCH

MOVIE METER SOME OF THE BEST MOVIES OF THE YEAR ARE SLATED TO RELEASE THIS MONTH. SIGNATURE BRINGS YOU MORE… Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Zookeeper

Captain America: The First Avenger

Horrible Bosses

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

Smurfs the Movie

Cowboys & Aliens

Winnie the Pooh

It’s 1873 when a spaceship arrives in Arizona to take over the earth. But they’ll have to overcome a posse of cowboys before that

Pooh, Tigger, Rabbit, and the rest of the gang set out to save Christopher Robin when they think that he’s been captured by a creature named ‘Backson’

Crazy, Stupid, Love.

Larry Crowne

In the third instalment, the Autobots learn of a Cybertronian spacecraft hidden on the Moon, and race against the Decepticons to reach it and to learn its secrets

Steve Rogers volunteers for a secret project after being deemed unfit for military service which turns him into Captain America

The series finale sees Harry, Ron and Hermione venturing out to find the horcruxes, against all odds – and Lord Voldermort

A bittersweet story about a man dealing with martial crisis while at the same time, trying to manage a complex relationship with his children

Kevin James in his new role as a loveable zookeeper tries to win the heart of the woman he loves – with the help of the animals at the zoo

A hilarious comedy about three men who try to kill their obnoxious bosses, when they realise that they simply can’t handle things anymore

The Smurfs are stuck in the human world and must quickly find a way back to their village before the evil wizard Gargamel hunts them down

This romantic-comedy revolves around the life of a middle-aged man (Tom Hanks) who reinvents himself, after he loses his job, by going back to college

RETROSPECTIVE

ALL THINGS MACABRE AND BEAUTIFUL ALEXANDER MCQUEEN: SAVAGE BEAUTY ORGANISED BY THE MET’S COSTUME INSTITUTE, EXAMINES THE DESIGNER’S LIFE AND CAREER THROUGH HIS WORK A SIGNATURE REPORT

rom May 4 to July 31, the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met), New York, plays host to the immortal designs of Lee Alexander McQueen, one of the most provocative and imaginative designers of our time.

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“I think the title ‘Savage Beauty’ very much epitomises the contrasting opposites in McQueen’s work,” says Andrew Bolton, curator of the exhibition. “As you enter the exhibition, you’re faced with two mannequins—the two mannequins that I think represent many of the themes and ideas that McQueen revisited throughout his career: polarised opposites, whether it’s to do with life or death, lightness or darkness, predator/prey, man/ machine.”

Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty, features some of his most iconic designs; from his postgraduate creations to his final runway designs that were featured just days after his tragic death in February 2010. The exhibition is a tribute to the genius, his radical thought process, his romantic yet ghost-like creations, and sweeps across seven galleries – each showcasing a different theme. The galleries also feature videos of the runway shows at which McQueen first exhibited the garments as well as special soundtracks composed by John Gosling (who also created music for his runway shows).

The first gallery entitled ‘The Romantic Mind’ showcases McQueen’s talent in tailoring which he mastered at Savile Row. The entire space is made out of concrete and is inspired by his first atelier in Hoxton Square. This gallery features creations that showcase his craftsmanship as well as his ability to weave a story through his designs.

of the nineteenth century, of Victorianism. Many of the pieces are inspired by the cult of death, and it’s also peopled with characters associated with the literary concept of the Gothic, like vampires, highwaymen, antiheroes, or Byronic heroes.”

The ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’ is a direct reference to ‘eighteenth-century and nineteenth-century practice of collecting objects from natural history as a way of viewing the world’ and according to Bolton the ‘heart and soul’ of the exhibition. The gallery gives insights on McQueen’s love for nature and primitivism. “All the major themes you’ll confront throughout the exhibition are very much present in this particular gallery. You’ll also see 10 iconic moments from his runway shows. McQueen was a great sponge, and he looked everywhere for inspiration, and you see all those references come together in this particular gallery.”

‘Romantic Gothic’ highlights a darker side of his creations. Says Bolton, “McQueen often called himself the ‘Edgar Allen Poe of fashion’. One of the most prevalent and on-going themes in McQueen’s work was the Gothic, particularly the darker side

The storyteller in him again awakens in ‘Romantic Nationalism’ wherein his creations directly reflect this pride in his Scottish heritage and love for British history. In the next gallery, his passion for history is taken further and features designs, which

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have been inspired by the 18th century Jacobite Risings and the Highland Clearances of the 19th century. “I think that the violence of that particular time in history was reflected in McQueen’s clothes in the very construction of them; it’s almost as if he took scissors to the garments and slashed them,” says Bolton.

In ‘Romantic Exoticism’ shows how McQueen was also inspired by the Orient. He has been influenced

greatly by embroidery and the cultures that are famous for them, namely Japan, China and India.

The collection called Irere, tells the story of a ‘shipwreck at sea and the subsequent landfall in the Amazon’ and this has been exhibited in ‘Romantic Primitivism’. Also featured in this gallery are contrasting opposites, such as predator/ prey, or primitive and civilised.

The final gallery, ‘Plato’s Atlantis’ is McQueen final collection, which he designed just before his death

and again features McQueen’s favourite themes of contrasts.

Throughout the exhibition, quotes by the late designer give visitors further insights into his creative process and his fascination with darkness and death. Such a quote, used in the exhibition perhaps sums it all up, “It is important to look at death because it is a part of life. It is a sad thing, melancholy but romantic at the same time.”

HOME

Ernesto Gismondi

LET THERE BE LIGHT!

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THE DESIGN FIRM AT THE FOREFRONT OF LIGHTING AND DESIGN, ARTEMIDE RECENTLY PARTNERED WITH AL HASSAN ELECTRICALS TO BRING HIGH-END LIGHTING PRODUCTS TO CUSTOMERS IN OMAN. SUSHMITA SARKHEL FINDS OUT MORE ABOUT THE BRAND BEHIND THE FUTURISTIC DESIGNS

PRODUCTS: 1. Tizio LED table lamp designed by Richard Sapper (2009) 2. Mercury lamp designed by Ross Lovegrove; a ceiling fixture that places a floating assembly of large pebbles below a simple modern aluminum disc which in turn reflect each other, bouncing light between their bio-morphic surfaces and reflecting the environment around them. (Winner of Red Dot Design Award, 2008) 3. Cosmic Leaf ceiling lamp designed by Ross Lovegrove; a ceiling mounted luminaire for diffused halogen lighting. (Winner of Red Dot Design Award, 2010) 4. Cadmo Modern Floor Lamp by Karim Rashid; Floor standing luminaire for indirect and diffused halogen lighting. (Winner of iF and Red Dot Design Award, 2010)

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E

uclid, Pythagoras, Einstein, Planck, Huygens – these are just some of the great minds who have tried to uncover the mystery behind light. Try as one might, it’s hard to define what this quiet force of nature actually is. Apparent yet enigmatic, mankind has always been so fascinated by it. Artemide, leaders in the world of lighting and illumination, have taken the very concept of light (and design) to create something quite revolutionary. The brainchild of Ernesto Gismondi and Sergio Mazza, Artemide, which was founded in 1960, has developed over the years to become synonymous with design and concept innovation. With headquarters located in Milan, the Artemide Group currently enjoys a very prominent

international presence.

Ernesto started out his career as an aeronautical and missile engineer. When we ask him how he moved to his current passion, he says with a smile, “I think it’s better to call in a psychiatrist.” But then he explains that when it comes to aeronautics, the shapes and designs are highly advanced and somewhere down the line, it is not hard to conceptualise the parallels in design – be it for aeronautics or high-end lamps and light fixtures. So where does he draw his inspirations from? “Nature,” he answers without batting an eyelid. “In fact, in future, I would love to use materials found in nature.”

Artemide is not only a design firm; it also has an architectural unit. While the design unit deals with a range of space illumination products, the architectural unit dedicates itself towards design, production and marketing products for indoor environments. The firm is also a strong proponent of another rather unique concept; that of the ‘Human Light’. The Human Light is a way to utilise light to meet the needs to man and his lifestyle and this philosophy plays a vital role in all their designs.

“It is more for ‘light for man’,” explains Ernesto. “For instance, imagine one working in front of the computer with a lamp beside him. Now, the lamp might be bellisima (Italian for beautiful), but after sometime you start getting a headache and your eyes start watering or become sore. So our goal is to concentrate on the light – not always the design, but mainly the light.”

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It is little wonder then that Artemide’s products are state-of-the-art, capable of ensuring top technical performance and the recipient of various prestigious awards including the Red Dot Design Awards, Compasso d’ Oro, and iF Design Awards.

Combining optics, electronics, mechanics and then some more, the firm has managed to create products that are utilitarian as well as aesthetically pleasing. Be it for residential or commercial projects, Artemide has the solutions for it all

For more information on Artemide’s products, contact Al Hassan Lighting at lighting@al-hassan.com

TECHNOLOGY

TAP AND PAY Now, payments can be just a tap away. Witness the future of shopping with Google Wallet 66

Like we have said before, convergence is the way of the future. Our day-to-day products are getting smaller and much more functional.

Take a mobile phone for instance it can now be used to make calls, browse the Internet, watch videos, play music and even take photographs and videos. Some of the more powerful ones can even replace your media player at home. Now, thanks to Google, they can also replace another product we carry around with us – our wallets and purses.

Google, Citi, MasterCard, First Data and Sprint recently announced and demonstrated Google Wallet, an app that will make your phone your wallet so you can tap, pay and save money and time while you shop. And for businesses, Google

Wallet was displayed as an opportunity to strengthen customer relationships by offering a faster, easier shopping experience with relevant deals, promotions and loyalty rewards.

The app is still undergoing field tests, the first of which are focused in New York and San Francisco, where many retailers, Coca-Cola vending machines and even taxis are PayPassenabled. It should be made available to consumers sometime this summer in the States.

However, for us here in Oman the wait may be a bit longer. Regardless the potential of the app is simply undeniable Google Wallet uses near field communication (NFC) to make secure payments fast and convenient by simply tapping the phone on any PayPass-enabled terminal at checkout. For those of you unfamiliar with the technology, NFC allows simplified transactions, data exchange and connections between devices to take place with just a touch. Any smartphone or tablet with an NFC chip is capable of making credit card payments or even serve as a keycard or ID card. Furthermore, these devices can read NFC tags on specific displays in retail outlets to get additional information or even a presentation if necessary. And if that wasn’t enough, the technology can even be used to share a contact, photo, song, application, and video or even pair Bluetooth devices.

When it is commercially launched, Google Wallet will support payments with two payment solutions: a PayPass eligible Citi MasterCard and a virtual Google Prepaid card. Most people who already have a PayPass eligible Citi MasterCard can simply add it to Google Wallet over the air. Alternatively, customers can fund the Google Prepaid card with any payment card.

For those of you concerned about the security of this system, do not fret. Google has all grounds covered. The app is engineered to enable secure payments and goes beyond what’s possible with traditional wallets and cards. It will require an app-specific PIN and in the first release, all payment card credentials will be encrypted and stored on a chip, called the secure element, which is separate from the Android device memory and is only accessible by authorised programmes.

Google Wallet is built to work with the fast growing MasterCard PayPass network—a merchant point of sale service that enables consumers to tap to pay. As a result, Google Wallet will immediately be accepted at more

than 311,000 PayPass-enabled merchants globally.

Google has also been testing a variety of consumer deals that can range from a percentage discount on a new clothing discovered on a Google search advertisement; to a direct cash discount off check-in offer received upon entering a store; or even a “deal of the day” offering of a lunch at half price at a local restaurant. Whenever you buy or save an offer, you will be able to automatically sync it to

Google Wallet. You can then use the app to show your offer at the register, where the cashier can either scan or manually type it in.

Even better, because Google Wallet is a mobile app, it has potential far beyond anything your regular wallet would be capable of and do so without the bulk. For starters, it will offer loyalty and gift cards but some day items like receipts, boarding passes and tickets will all be seamlessly synced to the app. Making your dayto-day lives and long distance travel an absolute breeze

TAKE10 1

Cinnamon

This slightly sweet spice helps slow down the rush of sugar to the blood. It's also an anti-inflammatory, which means it can help delay the onset of aging.

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Chocolate

(yes!) – Dark chocolate (above 70 per cent cacao) contains omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, plant-source iron and phenylethylamine, said to enhance one's mood.

Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants, phytoflavinoids, potassium and vitamin C, not only can they lower your risk of heart disease and cancer, they are also anti-inflammatory. Enjoy them frozen or fresh!

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Salmon’s rich in Omega-3 that helps reduce cholesterol, lowers risk of heart disease, and may even help keep your mind sharp.

Aim for two-to-three servings a week.

Avocados

They are high in potassium (reduces the risk of high blood pressure), B vitamins (promotes healthy skin and muscle tone), vitamin E (protects against heart disease), as well as fibre, which help aid in digestion.

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Tea

8

Broccoli

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Tomatoes

Wasabi

Japanese horseradish is said to help prevent everything from ulcers and tooth decay to blood clots and asthma. It also has antibacterial properties.

Salmon

Experts claim that the “overall antioxidant power of black tea is the same as green tea.” ECGC present in green tea, however is a more powerful antioxidant. So be black or green, skip the soda and have some tea.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli have chemicals that help prevent breast cancer.

They are also rich in vitamin A and C, calcium, potassium and folate – all this for less than 20 calories per serving.

A source of lycopene tomatoes have been proven to be very effective in fighting cervical and breast cancer. Lycopene increases the SPF in your skin and the polyphenols thin you blood (good news for your heart). Cook them with broccoli for even greater benefits.

10 Walnuts

Experts say that eating just a handful of walnuts a day can help lower cholesterol, boost brain power, sleep better, cope with stress, prevent heart disease, fight cancer, and more.

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They say that you are what you eat. So get healthy with some of these good-for-you food choices

Things We Didn’t Know About

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