MESSAGE ASHRAF ALI M. A.
Dear Reader Oman Avenues Mall, the largest shopping mall in the Sultanate with the highest quality shopping, dining and entertainment outlets is pleased to present our third edition of Avenues Life magazine. I’m proud to say that as each edition is launched, our loyal readership and engagement with the Muscat community increases significantly. During the last few months, we have seen some great new store openings, incredible mall events and activities and substantial numbers of families and visitors to the mall. Our very first Flavour Festival was concluded in October featuring loads of fun events involving our restaurants and cafes, and in November we celebrated Oman National Day with a truly innovative and spectacular Oman map building activity, involving more than 20,000 participants and 200,000 LEGO bricks. The next few months are expected to be just as exciting with Avenues Season of Fashion set to launch, as well as other great programmes; so keep your eye on our social media channels and website for updates. We have another great edition of Avenues Life lined up for you with loads of interesting and relevant content, so please enjoy reading!
Ashraf Ali M.A.
Executive Director Lulu Group International
FOREWORD
CONTENT
in this AVENUES LIFE
Meeting Expectations At Oman Avenues Mall we believe that all what
New at OAM: A host of new stores and outlets are set to enhance your shopping experience
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constitute an integrated services city.
Mall News: Check out what is trending now at your favourite OAM
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Everything available here reflects your wishes,
Social Media: Read all about the Flavour Festival, which presented an all new avenue for OAM patrons to explore
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In Focus: International beauty expert Sumaiya Al-Riyami shares her expertise on the beauty industry
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Styling Tips: Fashion blogger and Wardrobe stylist Monique Helou presents style tips and suggestions to look and feel savvy this winter
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preparation and the big draw), we have made the
Beauty Tips: Learn the art of accentuating your eyelashes with some tried and tested tips
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map of Oman, wherein we have together built
Tech Talk: A quick peek at iPhone 7 and Galaxy S7
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Travel Tips: A winter vacation guide for all those with holidays on their hands
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Food: It’s all about burgers and all things scrumptious at OAM food court
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Home: Get a ‘vintage modern’ look with antique-perfect funiture and accessories
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we provide is not just about creating shopping experiences, as it’s a meeting point for all, regardless of their destinations and desires. Through more than 200 shops and restaurants, services points and entertainment options, we
which we always seek to provide through our permanent and continuous events. After the end of the flavoured festival events, during which we were introduced to new Omani talents in photography, in cooperation with Canon Oman and Photographic Society of Oman (in addition to a variety of events in the arts of food
Oman with Lego breaks during the event of ‘together we build Oman’; it involved more than 20,000 individuals in order to build Oman. By the beginning of next year we will be ready to welcome the fashion season at your Oman Avenues Mall, with all its diverse fashion and beauty events for the whole family. Follow us through our social networking sites to get introduced to all new products.
Published by: Oman Avenues Mall Founder: Oman Avenues Mall
Mysa Al Hinai Head of Corporate Communications
Created & Designed by: Media 21 MFZ LLC Tel: +971 4 4562651/4562596 Enquiries: Asif Hussain Mob: +968 9910 3312 Email: asifz@om.lulumea.com
New at OAM
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incci, part of Malaysia based Padini Group, is a fashion footwear and handbag brand, established in 1981. A playground for shoe lovers and addicts, Vincci was among the first Malaysian brands to push the boundaries in footwear by introducing hot, off the runway styles, at incredibly affordable prices. The brand approaches shoe making as an art form and design challenge. Drawing inspiration from the great masons, fashion week events and up-to-the-minute fashion news, Vincci creates footwear that is distinctive, desirable and on trend. The same approach is extended to their bags and accessories’ collections. By adhering to affordability, trendiness and a quick-to-market strategy, Vincci is today an iconic brand with a huge global following of adoring shoes enthusiasts.
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he Yummy brand is a café specialising in authentic Belgian waffles and is the first of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman. Yummy Waffle is a traditional Liege Waffle prepared from the ‘So Good’ waffle dough, which embodies the heritage of 300 years of culinary tradition of the Liege Waffle, praised everywhere in the Belgian Kingdom and all over the world. Yummy Waffles are made with the original recipe of the Liege Waffle that feature chunks of specialised sugar, which caramelises on the outside of the waffle when baked, giving it a soft yet crunchy texture. The waffle itself is available in a variety of flavours such as vanilla, cinnamon, apple tatin, walnut, etc. It can be eaten either plain or with a variety of toppings, from honey, chocolate, jams and ice-creams to savoury add-ons that make it an enjoyable food experience for all nationalities and age groups around the world. The café also engages in some additional Arabian flavours that cater to the Arabic palette. It prides itself with the signature smoothies, as well as hot and cold selection of coffee and tea that perfectly complement the delicious waffles of the customers’ choice. The authentic ‘Yummy’ Waffle café itself embodies an elegant and comfortable waffle house ambience where the professionally trained and friendly staff will ensure that every customer gets an unforgettable and unique food experience.
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New at OAM
Shawarma Xpress
Shawarma Xpress is a quick service restaurant concept, serving a creative variety of shawarma and associated foods through its unique and innovative concept, high quality halal meats and a variety of breads, through counter service eat –in, take away and delivery methods. It has expanded to Oman, and will shortly be opening its second franchised restaurant at The Oman Avenues Mall. The new restaurant, located on the 2nd floor of the Mall, will offer the traditional shawarma, succulent shavings of fresh chicken or beef, wrapped in a variety of fresh breads. Shawarma Xpress goes beyond the norms and caters for all tastes by offering a variety of flavoured sauces ‘creating shawarmas with international appeal’, additional rice and chicken dishes, together with add-on products (salads, fries, onion rings, drinks, etc.), to be enjoyed at any time of the day. Shawarma Xpress brings traditional food to the modern day lifestyle in a genuine and efficient way, making it easy for all customers to enjoy the goodness of the shawarma at the Restaurant, on the go, or at home.
COY: Food with Benefits
A recent entrant to the Omani food and hospitality scene and already making all the right noises is the food and beverage company, Muscat Gourmet. In less than two years, the company’s ambitious drive has seen the introduction of truly flavourful and contemporary food for a discerning Omani audience. Contemporary and fresh, COY promises a warm and welcoming ambience for the smart, well-heeled Omani diner. A playful, upmarket hangout, COY will serve and showcase the most popular of global cuisine with its own ‘coy’ twist, at affordable prices. It will serve gourmet food infused with a secret blend of herbs to provide an authentic, unforgettable dining experience. And unlike the regular fine dining restaurant, COY’s allure comes from its impeccable and personal service that does not get overbearing or intimidating, all that a fine dining concept is usually associated with. COY’s kitchen prides itself on creating wholesome, feel good food with an emphasis on health benefits derived from using its signature blend of popular herbs, such as, sage, rosemary, basil, thyme, etc., giving diners flavours that are delicate, yet precise, making them want to lick the back of their spoon and yearn for more. And the deal maker: COY offers all three meals starting from the most important meal of the day – a power-packed breakfast – to lunch, dinner and every other snack craving for those in-between meal times. COY aims to fulfil Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs (with the current addition of connecting online, of course) making COY a restaurant for all reasons and seasons.
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MALL NEWS
Avenues Children’s Garden A CSR initiative, launched recently at the Mall, is all about RE-USING
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irst, the mall took one ton of its food waste from the food court and converted it into compost, then used it to enrich the soil of 30 garden beds, conveniently placed in a custom built outdoor nursery located on level two of the mall near to Sana Fashion. Local schools were then invited to adopt one planter box and plant seeds for various vegetables and herbs. Every child who visited took home with them a small plant pot to grow, as well as a fun kids activity booklet - all about RE-USING. The Muscat Garden Center is managing everything onsite; they also have some great plants and products for sale in their newly opened nursery at the Mall.
Do you want to participate?
Any child who visits the Avenues Children’s Garden is entitled to collect a free activity book and one small plant pot to grow at home! To collect yours, simply visit the garden and ask one of the friendly staff. Oman Avenues Mall wants you to share your RE-USE ideas by posting it on social media using #avenueschildrensgarden. Every month there will be great prizes up for grabs.
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MALL NEWS The Balm at Oman Avenues Mall
A special section of the Oman Avenues Mall has been dedicated to the famous brand ‘The Balm’, which opened recently in the beauty salon area. ‘The Balm’ is considered as one of the most famous brands that offers luxurious and excellent cosmetics, similar to those recommended by beauty experts and social media influencers. It offers different varieties of cosmetics, including lipsticks, base creams, blushes, eye shadows, primers, Kohl pencils, eyeliners, mascara and cosmetic brushes.
Samar’s beauty salon: A variety of services under one roof
‘Samar’s’ , the luxurious beauty salon, has opened recently in the ground floor of the Mall to provide classy and upscale services to all customers, ranging from services related to hair, beauty, facial, skin care and manicure to many other cosmetic services. ‘Samar’s’ beauty salon has qualified and trained staff and it delivers speedy services, right in the heart of the business centre.
ROYCE: Crafting unique chocolate products
It all began in 1983 in Sapporo, the capital city of Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido. With cooler climates and wonderfully natural terrain, it is the ideal location for sourcing the freshest dairy products. Over the years, ROYCE has become known for crafting unique chocolate products such as Nama (fresh), maccha chocolates and potato-chip chocolates that are now enjoyed in over 14 countries, including Oman. It is also available in Oman Avenues Mall. Now that the secret is out, ROYCE is on a mission to introduce all Omanis to the deliciously unique taste of chocolate - Japanese style.
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SOCIAL MEDIA
Delivery of winners’ prizes in our first food photography contest exhibition
Flavour Festival Flavour Festival, held at Oman Avenues Mall earlier this year, proved to be a delectable affair, with events featuring workshops and contests that revolved around food
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visit to the mall is no longer a mere shopping trip or a picnic to spend time in a happening place; it has become a special experience in an atmosphere of fun, pleasure and entertainment. At Oman Avenues Mall this experience is enhanced for customers to enjoy with friends and people they care about. The focus here is on providing different experiences by organising special events that suit all ages and tastes. In pursuance of its objective to constantly deliver experiences that are special by all counts, Oman Avenues Mall organised Flavour Festival through September and October, presenting a host of events, including competitions to prepare coffee in a professional manner, a workshop to make sweets for children, a competition to prepare chimney cake and a burger eating competition. It was a first of its kind experience for visitors to the Mall, who participated in the contests and interacted with the event hosts to maximise their fun. First place winner Photo credit: Hanen Asmi on Instagram platform
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SOCIAL MEDIA Second place winner Photo credit: Ahmed Al Bartamani on Instagram platform
One of the competitions held during the Festival required participants to capture food images and post them on the Mall’s social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram). The competition was held in cooperation with the Photography Society of Oman, which received considerable interaction by users of these networks. Participants in the competition exceeded 400, varying between professional posts by professional photographers and shares by photography enthusiasts to food lovers who visit the restaurants and experience the different flavours. At the end of the competition, winners of the best photographs, evaluated by Photography Society of Oman, were honoured. It was also the launch of the first photography exhibition, featuring food images, at Oman Avenues Mall, which displayed the winning photograph in addition to a number of pictures that were shared in the competition.
Third place winner Photo credit: Anfel Al Qasimi on Instagram platform
Fourth place winner Photo credit: Ahmed Al Hadaidi on Instagram platform Best photo inside the mall Photo credit: Faizal Al Awafi on Instagram platform
For further information on the special shares in food photography contest, please visit #FlavourFestival on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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IN FOCUS
From the world of beauty International beauty expert Sumaiya Al-Riyami, owner of Crystal Beauty Lounge and the exclusive agent for Kryolan and Flormar cosmetics and Jean Darcel products in the Sultanate, who participated in the beautification of the popular Miss World pageant, opens up about the beauty sector in Oman 12
I Avenues Life
IN FOCUS
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he beauty industry in Oman has grown remarkably and concretely, from the beauticians employed in this sector to businessmen/women investing in the sector. Omani women have established their presence in this market, thanks to some names that have excelled in the management of this sector and reached celebrity status. We have with us, in this issue, Omani and international beauty expert Sumaiya Al-Riyami, who participated in the beautification of the popular Miss World pageant, to speak about the beauty sector in Oman. She is the owner of Crystal Beauty Lounge and the exclusive agent for Kryolan and Flormar cosmetics and Jean Darcel products in the Sultanate.
Omani women are leading the market
According to Sumaiya, the beauty industry is one of the fastest growing service sectors in the Sultanate, in particular, and the world, in general. She states: “It has grown significantly, thanks to the growing awareness and better knowledge of the subject; today people are informed about the details of services and the latest developments in the market. These have, consequently, contributed to improving the levels of services and requirements of the customers, who are leading the market with high demand for quality services. This is what we, as service providers, can provide, to meet the expectations of our customers and satisfy their requirements. “We are proud and optimistic, thanks to the fact that the majority of beauty sector leaders in the Sultanate are Omani businesswomen, many of who are professionals in this domain and are capable of creating a market that is on par with those available in the Gulf. This demonstrates that Omani citizens are able to manage the sector at different levels, as long as they have sufficient knowledge and passion for the field.
“This growth has been spectacular - the beauty sector was not active about a decade or so ago and there were only a few beauty salons. Omani women were almost absent in the scene; but when some of them entered the market, the sector developed and prospered, which is the case today, in services as well as products that Omani businesswomen have introduced into the market.”
Impact of Social Media on business
Talking about the impact of social media on the prosperity of this sector, both at the international and the local level, Sumaiya said, “It is true that social media has greatly influenced the beauty industry. Social media influencers and bloggers are providing us with the latest trends in the world of beauty and fashion and people have become aware and well informed about the products and their methods of use. In addition, promotions through social media are proving more effective and people are eager to buy only those products, which they need. “Therefore, consumers are adequately aware of the difference between what is promoted as a propaganda to buy a particular product and being sure that they really need the product…”
Beauty Academy
Sumaiya strongly believes that the need of the hour is to have a professional academy for beauticians. “Today, all the services available in the market have become accessible and available to everybody and the market continues to keep pace with the latest trends. But what we really do need is start a professional academy that provides high level of training, which allows for the development of staff working in different services related to this sector. As business people in this sector, we suffer from a shortage of skilled manpower in this field; it drives us to bring in restricted numbers of expatriate manpower, which limits our ability to provide
better services. If there was a professional qualification, such as a professional academy composed of qualified specialists to provide training in this field, we would be able to provide jobs for hundreds of Omani girls and empower them economically, in addition to reducing expatriate manpower; it would enable Omani women to explore the options in the beauty sector. “What makes beauty industry different is the fact that it is a service that is, generally, seen as an entertainment service. This is why the customer wants to get the best service and the onus is on us to provide the best quality service to win customers’ trust. It requires qualifying the staff in order to provide a service that meets the receiver’s aspirations,” she maintains. Highlighting her role as an exclusive agent for three of the most famous brands in the field of cosmetics and skin care, Sumaiya said, “At the beginning, I chose to work with Kryolan, because, as a beauty expert, I found in this brand all the products I could use in applying make up in a professional manner. It also provides all what a beauty expert needs along with the high quality that this German brand offers - made in Germany products are known for high standards in the cosmetics and medical industry. “When I started to deal with this brand, I decided to introduce it in the Oman market, especially since I work in the beauty industry. It was easy for me to choose the products needed by the market. Later, I introduced Flormar, which is a Turkish brand specialised in personal and daily use cosmetics with high quality at reasonable prices. Because Flormar offers new products on an on-going basis, the demand for them by users and professionals is growing rapidly, thanks to the high quality versus the right price. “As for Jean Darcyl, being the owner of a specialist beauty centre, I look forward to providing excellent service in all areas and I found Jean Darcyl, a German medical brand in the field of skin care where products carefully examined and tested according to the highest levels.”
“We are proud and optimistic, thanks to the fact that the majority of beauty sector leaders in the Sultanate are Omani businesswomen”
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8 STYLE TIPS
Fashion Trends to expect this winter!
Get winter ready with style tips and suggestions from Monique Helou, Fashion Blogger and Wardrobe Stylist
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his winter, be bold and reach for those snakeskin mules or the silk bomber. It’s a new season; try to reinvent yourself and your closet. Here’s a list of styles you will be seeing all around.
1. Culottes
This sophisticated pant is all over the runway and will be soon all over the town. Pair it with the blouse, which is hiding in the back of your closet and is just waiting to be tucked into the perfect culottes.
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2. Matching Sets
Forget everything you know about not wearing all one colour, and give this sophisticated trend a shot. From blazers to jumpsuits, to culottes and caplets, you will be the chicest girl at the office.
3. Bomber Jacket
The bomber has recently taken over the fashion world, but this year it takes on a new twist in unusual colours and fresh
silhouettes. Whether oversized or embroidered, it’s all about the details in 2016. Pair it with the only pair of black jeans you can count on in your wardrobe; lace up booties, and a bold clutch for the art show you have been dying to go to.
4. Trench Vest
The trench coat will always be a classic staple in all of our closets, but this year it’s trending in a fresh sleeveless silhouette. Whether you are running to brunch or heading to a meeting, this vest is a perfect layering option to step up your favourite outfit. Pair it with converse, a tunic dress, and oversized sunglasses.
5. The Mule
This is not your grandma’s shoe. The mule is here to stay, whether you are ready or not. Go for a heel or a flat, snakeskin or suede and give this trend a chance.
6. The Slip Dress
The slip dress is everywhere and on everyone from Calvin Klein to Celine and Rihanna to Jennifer Lawrence. Now, the slip dress can seem intimidating because of its clinging, slinky silhouette, but trying an A-line version of this trend is just as chic and a much easier wear. Pair it with an oversized sweater and the mules you are already rocking.
7. Statement Bag
Be bold and reach for that oversized bright fuchsia tote or furry clutch. It’s all about the handbags this year and the crazier the better. Too often we play it safe with black, white, or neutrals. Have some fun with your everyday accessory!
8. Pencil Midi Skirt
The midi has been trending for a while, but now it’s back with buttons, zippers, and leather. It’s all about the hardware and texture. Pair it with a mock neck sleeveless crop, slicked back pony, and bold clutch for cocktails.
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BEAUTY TIPS
Perfect
Eyelashes
For An Attractive Look Accentuate your eyelashes with some tried and tested tips that well complement your attractive dark eyes
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omen in the Arab and Eastern world are blessed with dark black eyes and thick eyelashes. It is this thick veil of blackness that has created the theme of Arab beauty; it has become a unique style and a school of art in the world of beauty. Yet, khol pencils are no longer sufficient to create this beautiful image of the eye, opening the market for false eyelashes - both temporary and permanent - eyelash curlers and cosmetic products for lengthening and intensifying eyelashes.
If you adore eye make-up and are longing for perfect and attractive eyelashes, simply follow the steps given here:
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There are many types of eyelash adhesives – if this is your first time or if you are still a beginner, choose the type of adhesive that does not dry out very quickly in order to be able to rectify any defects that may occur in the procedure of applying eyelashes. But if you are experienced and have learnt the art, choose an adhesive that dries out fast so that you do not have to wait long for the next step.
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Application of eyelashes starts from the middle of the eye and follows to the extremities. Put very small amount of the adhesive on the false eyelashes at the extremities so that you do not lose control in case the adhesive is over.
l After completing the application of eyelashes, wait until you make sure that the adhesive has dried out, and then Try to choose eyelashes that would fit the shape of apply very little - one brush – mascara, in order to blend your eyes, as every eye has specific lashes suitable for it. Make the right choice to get the right look; do not your lashes with the false one and make it look natural. hesitate to choose what suits you best to get the Daily Care result you long for. Eyelashes need daily care to endure without being lost l Quality of the eyelashes selected is also very or broken off. This is why you should make sure to clean important, make sure to use eyelashes that are made them and remove the remnants of mascara and adhesive to of good and safe materials, and, remember, if your avoid accumulation of dirt and clogging of eyelash follicles, eyelashes are lighter, you will get a more radiant and comfortable look. Choose medium length lashes so which may lead to their loss without the possibility of growing once again. that you look natural, rather than artificial.
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If you do not prefer false eyelashes…and if you find that natural eyelashes are sufficient for you, it would not be bad to enjoy radiant eye make-up by following these steps: l l l
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After applying make-up, clean up your eyelashes by using a dry eyelash brush. Then, use the eyelash curler to give your lashes perfect curled effect. Put one layer of mascara: you may put from one to two layers depending on the intensity you like, but you should wait until the first layer dries out before applying the other layers.
I Avenues Life
TECH TALK
The Magic of 7 What do you think of the iPhone 7 and Galaxy S7? Here’s our take…
F o r iPhone loyalists, this new offering from Apple is a dramatic improvement to the iPhone experience. Photography buffs have a lot to look forward to, as it comes with advanced new camera systems. Described as a pocket powerhouse by critics, the iPhone 7 is all about speediness, great speakers and extensive camera options, among others.
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Design
On a scale of comparison, there is not much to differentiate the 7 from its predecessor, the iPhone 6s. The shape and even the size appears identical, if you overlook the 5 grams of additional weight in the previous one. This element of familiarity also makes it comfortable to use. With a bright and colourful display, the phone has all the requisite elements to make it attractive; but if you want
to enjoy an edge over others, the Jet Black iPhone 7 is the one to pick. The phone case does look like its predecessor, but can hardly be described conventional with the camera reengineered to include optical image stabilisation, an f/1.8 aperture and a six-element lens to shoot better photos and videos even in low light.
Features
- The Home button has been reengineered and is presented as an advanced solid-state button; the fingerprint sensor is built into the Home button - Available in Rose Gold, Gold, Silver, Black and Jet Black finishes, with 32GB, 128GB and 256GB capacity options - Weighs 138 grams - Features retina HD display; 4.7-inch LED-backlit widescreen; multi-touch display with IPS technology; 1334-by-750 pixel resolution at 326 ppi and 1400:1 contrast ratio - The battery life is up to two hours longer than the iPhone 6s - The headphone jack is replaced with a pair of Lightning EarPods, which connect through the charging port, and wireless Apple AirPods, powered by a W1 chip.
Samsung Galaxy S7
Following the explosive (literally) exit of Note 7, Samsung may have had to contend with its share of damage control, but for diehard fans of the smartphone manufacturer, the options from Samsung stable are varied and exclusive, one that could easily overlook the Note disaster. Like the Galaxy S7... With this phone, observers feel that Samsung has a winner, many equating it with iPhone 6s and even going so far as to call it better than the new iPhone option.
Design
Although physically there is not much to differentiate between Galaxy S6 Edge and the S7, the new version has a slightly curvy side, making it that much easier to hold it in the nook of your palm. It scores all the points on the looks front and aces it with the features too, including the addition of ‘Always-on’ display, which is courtesy of AMOLED screens.
Features
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It has Gorilla Glass 4 in the front and the back It uses Samsung’s Super AMOLED tech - 5.1-inch, quad-HD display panel with a 2560x1440 resolution It is packed with 3,000mAh battery, with the option of fast and wireless charging The 12MP camera with lens is high performance and features an extra mode called ‘motion panorama’ for those spectacular panoramic shots. 32GB of internal storage is standard in S7 IP68 water resistance will ensure that it can withstand being in 1.5m of water for up to 30 minutes without any damage 5MP selfie camera
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TRAVEL TIPS
Soak up some winter With the onset of winter and the upcoming holiday season, plan a vacation abroad and make the most of the pleasant climes at these beautiful destinations A short-haul winter holiday is in order to bid adieu to 2016 and welcome the new one on a cool note. Check out some of the popular destinations around the world before you pick the one that suits you and your family’s interests.
Thailand
One of the most popular destinations in this part of the world, Thailand has its tourism industry honed to make the best of the November to March travel season, when nature shines in all its glory. If the idea of swaying on a hammock to the gentle breeze on the shore is your idea of holidaying, Thailand’s white sands and beach shacks will fulfil it perfectly. Zero in on one of the scenic islands of Koh Samui, Koh Lipe or Koh Lanta, which is made up of several little islands, or chill out at one of its picture perfect beaches. Some of the popular ones are Sairee Beach, Haad Rin, Lamai Beach, Hua Hin Beach, Ko Nang Yuan, Patong Beach, Hat Pramong, Maya Bay, Phra Nang Beach
Mexico
For a whiff of Mexican flavours amid its historical landscapes and cultural tapestry, give Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula a try. Between November and March, the Atlantic Coast is beckoning. The green sinkholes, quaint ancient temples and the beautiful vistas of clean beaches have upped its winter travel quotient. Have a dekko of the colonial Merida, stay in a picturesque hacienda on the Mayan Riviera, visit Playa del Carmen or the Bay of Banderas for a diving expedition, enjoy the family resorts of Cancun or make way to Puerto Vallarta for
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a Mexican twist to your holiday. The streets of Old Vallarta are bustling with retailers selling handmade crafts...
Maldives
If you are lined up for your annual holiday between December and April, or have a short leave coming up, book your tickets to Maldives. Although there, apparently, is no bad time to visit this island destination, the winter months have a special allure. This archipelago has several attractions to make it a memorable holiday. There are 26 coral atolls in a chain reaching down to cross the equator; within those 26 islets are roughly 1200 islands, of which 200 are inhabited. 100 of them have become resorts, providing the best avenues for rest and relaxation. It is here that you will find the world’s first underwater restaurant and nightclub; there is also an underwater spa to get into a pampered mode.
Bali
Bali is a cultural hotspot, which has been aptly described as paradise by travellers who have been wowed by its rich cultural heritage. The temperature here may be hot year round, but if rain is a spur, it is best to visit Bali between November and April. The rains come down in tropical bursts and could be a welcome sight after the dry spell in this part of the world. This Indonesian island is perfect for both adventure seekers as well as those who want to put their feet up and relax by the beach. Its white sandy beaches are a haven for divers and its forests are the best bets for those seeking some nature time. Whether you are looking to party it out at one of its popular watering holes or yearning for some tender care at one of the spas, Bali will not disappoint.
Mauritius
Like Bali, Mauritius also turns into a rainy paradise from January to April. So, if you are hoping to drench in the rain or simply wish to watch the sheer beauty of raindrops falling from the confines of your hotel room, give Mauritius a shout out. It is characterised by natural diversity, whether it is the beaches, rainforest hills or the vast plains. For divers, its extraordinary underwater world is not to be missed.
Vietnam
Between now to February, Vietnam is the place to visit and experience the old world charms of monuments and colonial architecture. Be it Hanoi’s Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, Saigon’s colonial splendour or the Cu Chi tunnels, the fascinating vistas of Vietnam have a special allure if you are looking for the perfect blend of the old and the new. From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the Ancient Town in Hoi An, Vietnam promises to fulfil all the travel demands with its architecture, wondrous caves and the beaches and dramatic bays. The Nha Trang Bay is recognised as one of the 29 most beautiful beaches in the world.
Kerala
Touted as God’s own country, Kerala is a nature lover’s destination, best savoured between November and March. Its calm cool backwaters and lush greenery makes it an exotic and must-visit destination. The scenic backwater destinations like Alappuzha, Kasaragod, Kollam and Kochi are best savoured in a houseboat.
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FOOD Satisfy your cravings with Casper & Gambini’s burgers Casper & Gambini’s offers a wide variety of options for you to choose from. In addition to some of their house specials such as the New Good Melt, the House Burger, and the Gourmet Mini Sliders, they have introduced some new burgers guaranteed to please your burger cravings such as the Mighty Melt, Texan BBQ, the Cajun Chicken Guacamole, and the Flaming Togarashi for those who prefer a special spicy mixture.
The secret is really two-fold:
1. To ensure the quality, tenderness, and, of course, the taste of their handcrafted burgers, which are made of fresh, never-frozen, 100 percent prime beef with no additives. 2. The fresh burger buns are baked in-house every morning, which is a major key to its success. Founded in 1996 in Lebanon, Casper & Gambini’s offers an innovative and globally-inspired selection of extensive and well-balanced dishes consisting of Healthy Bites, Morning Breakfast, Garden Salads, Homemade Pasta, House Specials, Signature Desserts, Award-winning Coffee, and much more; all to provide tastes for every lifestyle. Casper & Gambini’s Location: Ground Floor Phone: +968 22060085
Burger Station: where BIG is truly beautiful
Don’t make a pit stop at this station if you are looking for those runt-sized bites that are passed off as burgers. Because, at Burger Station what you will get is a bang for your buck. Big, gooey burgers that will make you ask yourself, ‘How hungry am I?’ and make you reach out for just another bite…and another… For, at Burger Station size matters! If your average burger patties are 80 to 90gms, Burger Station regular patty starts off at 135gms; and then there is ‘The Monster Burger’, which is a whopping 300gms patty. This is certainly not for the faint-hearted, so come ready to unleash your appetites and binge on wholesome, juicy burgers. To top it, Burger Station chefs take the fine art of patty making to a whole new level. From fiery concoctions to a twist on a classic, the chefs are serious about their burgers. Here, proprietary condiments, secret sauces, farm-fresh produce and appropriately-aged meat, all combine together in the Burger Station specialty burgers that will explode into a heady burst in your mouth.
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FOOD Chili House : Fast-casual dining
Chili House was launched in Muscat in 2015 by Adhwa Al Billa Group (ABT Group), which owns local brands like OmanPhone, an exclusive distributor of Huawei, Samsung, iPhone and Sony Mobiles; Fashion World, Jeep, and Carrera Clothing lines. In a span of less than two years, Chili House has expanded in Salalah and Nizwa. The original quick-service dining and hamburger chain in Jordan to combat a common perception of it being a seen as fast-food, Chili House, has well improved its competitive position by adopting the standards of fast-casual dining and benchmarking against industry successes. As Chili House has consistently delivered on its promise to provide high quality meals at affordable prices, many have come to perceive it as paralleling international food chains with regard to the quality of meals and services. Also, the logo and design of Chili House’s branches all contribute substantially to its strong brand perception. A common misconception that Chili House has fought intensively to dispel is one which assumes that the Chili House experience is comparable to any other in the fast-food segment. At Chili House, customers are served on real dishes and silverware is provided; a waiter takes the order and the check is paid after the meal is complete. Unlike fast-food chains, there is no standing in line, paper bags and containers and no paying at a cash register. There is also someone to serve the customers’ needs and offers auxiliary customer services, refills, condiments, additional items, etc. In Jordan and across the Middle East, people associate Chili House with fond memories of them meeting with up with friends. It was the original connection point for people, before the creation of social media. Chili House Location: Second Floor Phone: +968 22060254
Inspired by the unique culture that makes Oman a melting pot of the best this part of the world has to offer, you will find burgers that take inspiration from Mexican, Indian, Lebanese, Turkish and even Italian cuisine. Burger Station has something for everyone. The meat lover’s craving pandered to, but devout veggies can sink their teeth into some crunchy fare made from fresh, local produce. Of course, the little ones also have their own selection of meals that are fun and healthy. And no, Burger Station has not missed out on your sweet cravings as we offer a decadent choice of desserts. Gourmet burgers at street-side prices, what more can one ask for! Burger Station the new go-to destination! Burger Station Location: Second Floor Phone: +968 22060203
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HOME
Antiques on the modern style As the phrase ‘vintage modern’ gets popular in the home designing circuit, we present a quick peek at what is trending in the global market to make your home antique-perfect with all the modern accoutrements Antique… It is not a story of the form of the item, as much as it is a story of the memories which an antique bears, including the scratches and the colours and the moments in which the item was present, as part of the beautiful image. The singularity with which one cherishes an antique is dependent on a variety of factors, most importantly the emotional connect it establishes. On one end of the spectrum are collectors whose passion for antiques has them traverse the world to buy the most beautiful and unique items, for which they are ready to pay huge amounts of money to. They are the sort of people whose houses are similar to museums. There are also those who acquire family inherited items that have a place in their hearts, not for their price but, rather, for the moral worth and the memories they carry around.
Here we present the best ways to highlight antique pieces and subtly blend them with your modern-designed house furniture. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
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Whoever said you cannot integrate a home entrance chair model with a modern comfortable sofa! You should only choose sofas whose colours are consistent with the entrance antique chair. Be careful not to use an identical colour in order to highlight the item and make it attractive. If your favourite antique item is the mirror, you have many opportunities to highlight it, whether by combining it with a simple modern table or by hanging it to the wall or even adding it to the collection of photo frames. Who does not like music players, especially classical ones…? If you inherited a phonograph system, do not hesitate to put it in the most prominent corner in your home to give life to the place. The old dining table that witnessed all the family banquets and its best moments can also witness your moments with your family. If not all the chairs are in good condition, you may replace them with modern chairs so that you can attribute new spirit to your home. The Chinese porcelain dishes and the English teacups decorated with flowers have a splendour that does not fade but rather becomes much more radiant with time. Do not hesitate to use them at your special banquets or to decorate the coffee table.