Y Magazine #339, October 2, 2014 by SABCO Press, Publishing and Advertising

JAN 9 – 15 • ISSUE 252 • WEEKLY

Beauty From Within

Win with Kaya Skin Clinic Arabian Spirit

THE SULTANATE’S PRIZED STEED

TCHE TCHE / BOX APPEAL / SAVING OMAN’S VULTURES

14 News: I-CARE WATER DRIVE

Free!

EVERY THURSDAY NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR

HEALTH: Women’s Wellness GALLERY: Hearty Walking

Your top guide to the best of Oman, every week

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339 • WEEKLY

THINK Pink

PLUS!

Beating the Silent Killer in Oman

Snake Style

NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

FREE DIVING

Mini Adventure

Competitions Be the star of your own photo in our competition with City Cinema, which is giving away 10 pairs of movie tickets a week for the next two weeks. And don’t forget to enter our Box Appeal competition for a chance to win a BBQ for four people at the Radisson Blu Hotel. Go to P13-14 for details on how to enter both competitions.

The Barometer Going UP

Tourism The Sultanate’s long-term tourism strategy, which is expected to be launched by the end of this year, is aiming to attract four million tourists annually by 2020.

Going DOWN

Movie tickets Going to the cinema has never been cheaper, with theatre owners introducing a flexible pricing system throughout the day. Let’s hope it continues during Eid, when moviegoers can also be more flexible to save money.

THIS WEEK… Team Y has been celebrating Matt B’s birthday, flat hunting (again), preparing to move (again) and checking out the latest Liam Neeson thriller.

Ways to get your Y fix Online: Visit y-oman.com for even more inspiration. Smart device: Catch up with Y on the go by scanning the QR code below

EDITOR’S

NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine – your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has to offer.

Fast forward

ctober marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a global initiative that aims to put the disease in the spotlight, as well as boost early diagnosis, treatment and support. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide – both in developed and developing countries. This holds true in Oman, where cultural taboos have led to the disease becoming a “silent killer”. But the Oman Cancer Association and survivors are fighting back, hoping to spread the message that early detection is key to breast cancer control. Y speaks to one young Omani woman who takes us on her journey of survival after being diagnosed with the disease three years ago. Two of Y’s team members also give a very moving account of their experiences after their mothers were diagnosed with breast cancer. We’ve turned our front cover pink this week to honour every woman who is fighting this terrible disease in the Sultanate and around the world, as well as to those who have lost the battle, but whose memories live on in the hearts of their families. As we look towards Eid, it reminds us of the importance of reaching out to our loved ones to let them know how much we care – after all, cancer can strike anyone, at any time.

* Just a reminder that Y will not be published over the Eid break. However, we’ll be back brighter and bigger than ever on October 16.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eihab Abutaha MANAGING EDITOR Felicity Glover DEPUTY EDITOR Kate Ginn ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst follow us on:

@ytabloid

editor@y-oman.com

CONTRIBUTORS Matt Blackwell Adam Hurrell Jerzy Wierzbicki INTERNS Deeba Hasan Ailish Fleming DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan

Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing & Advertising LLC / Y is a SABCO Media product. We’d love to hear your news and views. For editorial enquiries, please email info@y-oman.com Want to read Y on the go? Scan our digital issue here:

/ytabloid

www.y-oman.com

Download any QR reader from iTunes or Google Play to read Y on the go

Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman. OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

contents

OCTOBER 02 - 08 2014

06 Coffee With Deeba Yaqdhan Al Rashdi 08 Voice of Oman Sayyida Mayya Al Said 10 News Muscat Rents Rise

15 Gallery Walkathon

16 Oman In 43 Objects Arabian Horse

26 Saving Big Bird The Vulture Has Landed

17 Movie Listings Revenge Of The Green Dragons 18 This Week Splash In

26 18

Food and Drink 28 Food Feature Spanish Fiesta 30 Taste Test Tche Tche Café

20 Think Pink Tackling Breast Cancer 24 Clean Up Your Act Y’s Rubbish Campaign

This week

Your Oman

Feature

Health and Beauty 32 Fashion Second Skin 34 Health Women’s Wellbeing

Cars and Adventures 38 Destination Bahla Fort 40 Outdoors Down In The Deep 42 Postcard From Mauritius 44 Y-Fi Mad Gadgets

46 Car of the Week Mini Cooper S All 4 Paceman 35 Beauty Shine On

NEXT ISSUE... FABULOUS FASHION / FOOD / FILMS / GADGETS / CAR OF THE WEEK / NEWS / TASTE TEST

ter go-kar a , i d h as e an al R tory is a hug h d q a Y s n with rdinary life w o d ers s o t si ra t y membd n x il a e m s e fa a s y H o Man ds questione in Deeba ly driver wh n d frien involvement s y n a l m o with that I n’s ou s r o t and ra of inspirati c o a Y qdha n be a danger of my f the d nd I realised o e a e c c m t r a “So wha sou in me,” osta parents t times.

y sick.” nt, sport a didn’t believe ed me ing at C was ver g his treatme s in was sitt in The Wave friends . “They mock ever, in r r , a e u n D Coffe for Yaqdha ight ye recovery e s a he says tle way.” Howpursuit w which cluding his n’t once waiting ns circling in r, a gen up the total, in Yaqdhan did nd even inaqdhan kept nd after questio s. Minutes late d Y a , a d an ught ream ccess in period ing to school ree my tho ng man arrive our of his d ncing great su riving, go r th p fo o s f t u e s o d s o ie s e y y r rs the d cla expe ing and rall are the cou d that attende the US. ion t a throughation, I realise st go-kart ds and familyities. in in c s s r fa ea convers one of the mo er met. y Although his ing had his frien ed of his abil the c g a r n u d o n y a he was l people I’d evhuge convinc han is part of , which cars him from a r fo fu e r h e t Yaqd st campaign on che ith han pped despite ir y been w ck then, Yaqd at one This is ll that was dro rs a S fety F promote safet love of , ba e th e a e in g e h y g a s o a t b ’s t h n s m im a ig d t bo aim ds. Yaqdh as at just e e behin ould no xtends on him en Yaqdhan wcancer. c ay he would b g, just like he roa s car related eich t d el racin old, whsed with bone watch all thinging as well, wh ion. the whe ers he would fully diagno plained to my my to drift s to an obsess are e driv hen he had of h t in m o in c a I “ W rt he liken this, he is aw uld about p e to a on TV. ed, his first porack parents d they took m ctors Despite angers. “I wothat’s r t cove he go-kart e n o r a d e e e e h il t n t f the d b k roads; told l where call was man AutomoIt felt so o ever drift on advises his hospita othing. They s only n e O “ H tice at the tion (OAA). riving. y risky.” usiasts to practo r e found nents that I wa ip v d ia d c e o t h s r ly nt As en I sta y timing was my par excuses to sk nts fellow e nated areas on ood wh ig s e d . making” But his pare ciating g noticed that mhan some of s in t see a ccident I school. that the excruffect avoid a ome reason, I ll him y betterd racers out ll a u t c a d a e s e t For y goo notic s starting to l; my dhan – the reall felt wonderfus finally l in Yaqsomething and e b pain wa n’s sleep. e r I a . do he r to there od dream w here Yaqdhay took me to t r he can’ttry even hardehink childho true.” From t driving t l il I . w “The ain and, afte y, he t he can for ag od coming ed on to rally han is a rove tha way it works s as doctor g my entire b high. p v d o q a m Y e e d h e days, ant in all the scannin ancer in my t nts that’s th n and he stan yone is nd thes aqdha oof that ever als, found cs told my pare was to a egular particip organised by Y o r Doctor only solution qdhan’s r hampionships living p achieve their g rows e a c h h Y t o t l t t g.” tha ed a A. able ter what life ugh. te my le the OA entor is Hamourite amputa disagreed, tholted no mat m v fa is ’s H an er m d O n u i, mother parents consu find at you. fo ib e ha tory “My y doctors to They Wa y driver and thotor sports. unique s meone a t o g u . n ll o n ra Have yo do you know s have haibi m spiration is with manative solutio the in f Al Wa to tell or ? Contact us to e an alter treatment in doctors o ut his all-time the Brazilian a , B e a d r n e n n h u who has ith Deeba and b . fo tes w o operate on Se r who won a t t r S y A d e e coffee w in Y Magazine .com Unit nly have t g that racing driv ula One world le o y ld m u f o featured editor@y-oman m w re For ion o fo e t e e c r b e s h s t n e ip a h sh Email: on t ampion losing his life in cancer.” lls: “When h e c h t d a a h ically n rec the Yaqdha ut nine or 10, I used tragident in 1994. o c . c b d a I was a herapy starte rsations chemothear the conve to over

Yaqdhan al Rashdi

OCT 0203 -- 0809 // ISSUE JULY ISSUE 339 327

The Voice of Oman Buckle up and drive carefully, says Sayyida Mayya al Said

correspondence

ot a week goes by that I don’t hear of a terrible car accident, which, more often than not, results in the tragic loss of life. There are many ways to avoid getting into an accident, but sadly, not many drivers seem to care. Take last week for example, when I found myself amid the usual traffic, following a female driver on my way back home one evening. She seemed to slow down suddenly and without warning several times, which nearly resulted in me hitting her on a couple of occasions. After a while, I realised that her break lights were not working. As soon as I understood the problem I tried signalling to her by flashing my headlights, gesturing that I wanted to speak to her, but she completely ignored me. I know I might have looked slightly crazy, but I was trying to tell her something. She should have stopped, I know I would’ve done. So I decided to be a Good Samaritan and call the police about it, but sadly no one picked up. It got me thinking that we are not only responsible for how we drive, but also for what we drive. We need to make sure that our cars are safe and roadworthy to ensure we do not endanger our fellow motorists. Only together will we make Oman’s roads safer.

Next week:

Ali al rahma returns

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Debate of the Week We asked: “With His Majesty Sultan Qaboos due back in Oman following his vacation and medical tests in Germany, what personal message would you like to give him on his return?” The response was overwhelming.

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

Poetry: May a Little Flower, Laying In Gloom, Rise and Bloom, Swaying Endlessly, This Way and That Way, Morn To Dusk, Everyday to show the happiness That His Majesty is back. May the Almighty protect you, Affection be the breeze around you, I pray all the happiness surrounds you. Long live His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. By Shyla Ivan

Dinner for two at Le Jardin restaurant

ebHotel /GoldenTulipSe eb @GoldenTulipSe

SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to info@y-oman.com / @ytabloid / /ytabloid. Impress us and the winning correspondent will receive a voucher for dinner at the Golden Tulip. Vouchers must be collected from Y’s

Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions see voucher.

SCAN THESE QR CODES &

Lead O! Kindly light Lead us on So long thy power hath blest us, Sure still it will lead us on Till the night is gone With the morn those angels smile Which we have loved long since, and lost awhile. By Shamija Suresh We still need a person like you Amid the hordes of armies that carry bombs, planted flower Amid screaming and shouting, wiping a tear Amid all blackness that fills the world, opens a window for the morning And paint for humanitarian glimmer of hope We still need you (We call on God to protect you from all evil oh Sultan of the highest and finest of the King) By Hemead Said Alamri

Your replies: Heather Louise Duncan ‬

If I could send him a message I would like to thank him for being so generous opening the door to his magnificent country and giving us the chance to live alongside his people. My years in Oman have been the best in my life.

Albert Temple

I was in Oman for 16 years working for the Ministry of Education and I have never seen a leader who has done so much for his people. I was in Oman from 1979 and witnessed the evolution of progress and prosperity under his wise leadership.

Ronneil Sales Valiente

Welcome back, Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos, to your beautiful country of Oman! You are doing a great job in

/YTABLOID

www.y-oman.com

ruling and improving your country. Thank you for allowing expatriates like me to live and work in your country. I am continuously praying for your good health.

Javed Rana ‬ Oman will come alive by your presence. Welcome back His Majesty. Krishna Sanal ‬‬ ‬‬

Welcome back, Your Majesty! Live long, live strong!

Helen Sayers ‬‬

Welcome back home to Oman, Your Majesty. To a home furnished with the love and affection of your loyal citizens, and decorated with the values you inspire in others – courage, freedom and dignity. A home where the doors are open to all who share your vision of coexistence.

Lourd James Garcia Alejandrino

The Sultanate of Oman is my home away from home. Long live His Majesty! Thank you for being a father to all expatriates in Oman.

Humayun Qadeer ‬‬‬

He is a great person and may Allah give him a happy and healthy long life. He is the greatest Sultan in the whole world.

Amy Palmer ‬ To His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, I’m sure the Sultanate of Oman missed you while you were away and I welcome you back home. I pray you had a good trip and that you achieved positive results for your medical examinations too. May God bless you always with good health. Amy Antonio

Welcome back His Royal Highness. The Sultanate of Oman and your people have missed you so much. Everyone praises Oman and your people, which shows how well you have taken care of your administration. May the Sultanate

of Oman be peaceful and friendly always and may your people realise how great your country is.

Tofeeq Butt

Welcome back, our beloved. We hope you can continue to lead Oman towards prosperity and betterment. Thank you for letting us serve your nation.

Hassan Raza

I wish we could get a leader like His Majesty in Pakistan also. He is a stable and neutral man, the best among all the leaders of Middle East.

@YTABLOID

Anu Bahl ‬

Because of you, Sir, people of different caste and creed live here in peace and respect. May God bless you and the country you have nurtured with so much love.

Vijayalakshmi Shetty

A great leader with a great vision in a great country. May all the wishes and prayers be showered on His Majesty. Welcome back home stronger than ever.

Syed Qaiser Jafri ‬‬

Auja al Habsi

The nation is happy and eagerly waiting to welcome back the Father of modern Oman. A true leader working for the peace and stability of the region.

Usamah al hadhrami

Oman without His Majesty is just a drawing on a map.

Allah knows how much your people need you and appreciate your deeds. That’s why you are here with us forever inshallah, Your Majesty. Oman is only what it is because of you. Welcome back.

Thushar Santhosh

We are so overwhelmed to know that His Majesty is returning home. May God bless His Majesty and the people of Oman with good health and prosperity.

Saida BT Mansour

Welcome, His Majesty. You are a great leader, may the great Allah bless you and you continue the reform of your country.

Sumaya al mawaly

Our beloved father, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, you left emptiness in our lives the moment you left. The country is in darkness without your presence, we really miss you. We are all eagerly waiting for you in good health and happiness.

‪Reena Dhawan Kapur ‬

Welcome back home, His Majesty, we all need you. You have not only won the hearts of your own people, but even the hearts of people who have left their own country and are staying in Oman. May God Almighty give you a long and healthy life and Oman prospers under your guidance.

Lina Ali

Simply and unembellished, you are the inspiration of Oman.

Ricky Cherian ‬‬

If I could send a message to Sultan Qaboos, I would thank him for the progress made in this country under his wise leadership.

Manal Ali Abbass

Carly-Marie Briston

I think His Majesty’s popularity speaks a million words. It is clear you love your people just as much as they love you.

Belinda Wallington

I believe that in life, we reap what we sow. Therefore, His Majesty deserves a long, happy and healthy life. He has led his country in an exceptionally excellent manner.

Rosalind MalcolmMacEwan‬

So you’ve taken time for yourself. Time was needed to reflect on all the massive changes in this beautiful developing country. You have to look after yourself first always before you look after others. We await your return with open arms.

Saud Asghar Ali

East or West, Sultan Qaboos is the best.

New Debate:

“If you could be a famous artist from any medium, who would you be and why?”

Tell us on Facebook or Twitter and be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

NEWS

YOUR Diabetes: The Joy Is In The Journey, Not At The Journey's End

Continued from 18th Sept issue As any travel agent or stranded tourist will tell you, planning ahead is the key to a successful trip. And this is particularly true for people with diabetes - a little forethought will take you a long way and help keep you healthy once you are there. Having diabetes should not be a limitation to long and short distance travel. It needs a bit of planning to avoid complications related to diabetes. Travel by road: Check your blood sugars at home just before travel and ideally every four hours later of travel. Stop after few hours of driving and stretch yourself. If you start feeling symptoms of hypoglycemia, immediately drive to the side, park, monitor the blood sugars and if low take short acting carbohydrate like glucose tablet / powder/ fruit juice or even a soft drink, followed by long acting carbs like sandwich. Wait till all symptoms resolve and that your glucometer shows that sugars are in the normal range. Don’t drive for more than 12 hours in a day or more than six hours in between meals. Carry adequate food supplies with you in your car as you are not sure when you will reach the nearest restaurant or motel. Travel by sea : Similar guidelines apply to travel by sea. Disclose all medications and medical conditions to the cruise staff. Travel on foot: Camping and hiking are a very good recreation activity. Avoid going alone and if you are alone, inform your whereabouts and plans to someone and be in touch with them by phone. Updating the GPS coordinates and sharing your location is also an easy way to ﬁnd you in case of emergency. Don’t forget to bring the emergency and ﬁrst aid kit, adequate food supplies and most importantly ample amount of water. Insulin, administered in hot climates, is relatively rapidly absorbed and one should compensate for the rapid glucose reduction which occurs with increased food intake. Intercurrent infections should be handled by adequate hydration and mild increase of insulin dosage and checking the ketones often (sick day rules apply). It is advisable to carry quick acting carbohydrate diet to combat hypoglycemia.

Dr. Gowri Sankar

MBBS, M.D, MRCP (UK) Specialist Internal Medicine (Physician) & Medical Director

010

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

OMAN

MUSCAT RENTS RISE

ents are increasing in the capital as demand outstrips supply, with prices rising by up to 7 per cent in the process. Villas are top of the tenant shopping list in the Muscat housing market, according to a report by international real estate consultants, Cluttons, which has an office in Oman. Job growth has been boosted by government investment in the Sultanate, leading to a surge in people looking for good quality accommodation in high-end areas such as Shatti, Azaiba and The Wave, Muscat, residential complex. Al Khuwair and Muscat Hills are also hotspot areas in demand. “Villas in particular remain highly sought after and the surging demand is expected to outstrip supply over the short to medium term, encouraging further strong rental value growth,” said the Cluttons Muscat Winter 2014 Residential Market Outlook report, released this week, The increased numbers of families arriving in Oman has prompted a rise in demand for gated communities. This in turn has seen a 4.8 per cent rise in rents for threebedroom villas in the third quarter of the year and a 7 per cent rise for four-bedroom villas, which soared to an average of R1,610 a month. In contrast, two and three-

bedroom apartments have stablised after some earlier growth. A two-bedroom apartment in Shatti, for instance, now costs about RO800 a month, while a three bedroom is almost RO1,000. In The Wave, a twobedroom apartment is even more expensive, setting renters back RO850. The knock-on effect is likely to be more construction sites and cranes popping up around Muscat in the coming months. Philip Paul, head of Cluttons, Oman said: “Rising levels of demand has led to a number of developers rushing to deliver new residential stocks to the market, as they move to capitalise on the depth of requirements.”

PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO IMPROVE

hose who turn to packed mini-buses and overpriced cabs for the daily commute could be in for some wellearned respite. The Oman National Transport Company (ONTC), a state-owned organisation and the primary bus service provider in the Sultanate, has floated a public tender for the purchase of low-floor city, inter-city and premium long distance coaches, a local newspaper reported this week. Sale of tender documents began earlier this week and the last date for tender document sale is October 16. Completed tenders will have to be

submitted by November 11. The announcement comes amid growing concern over the lack of a cohesive and reliable transport system in Oman, with traffic in Muscat often grinding to a halt during peak times, as Y reported last week. It has also been revealed that the Ministry of Transport and Communications has appointed Spanish transport engineering and consultancy firm Ineco to prepare a Public Transport Master Plan (PTMP) for Muscat. Their findings will be submitted at the first Oman Public Transport Conference scheduled for October 13-14. Speaking during an interview with a local newspaper, Emilio Miralles, project leader at Ineco, said, “The urgent areas are the provision of reliable and efficient urban bus services that people can take as alternatives to private cars, thereby reducing congestion.” An under or over ground metro and ferry services are both said to be under consideration, while the Ministry of Transport and Communications will review plans to introduce metered taxis.

No to commemorative stickers, ROP warns

otorists in Oman during festive periods often enjoy decorating their cars in the spirit of the occasion. However, the Royal Omani Police (ROP) has issued a reminder to motorists saying that decorating cars with posters and stickers, espeically in a way deemed to be causing obstruction to the driver’s view, is a traffic violation and that motorists who decorated cars faced punishment. Two such events – National Day (Nov 18) and Eid Al Adha – are just round the corner and the Royal Oman Police (ROP) is warning motorists against sticking posters on vehicles to celebrate, warning it’s breaking traffic regulations and therefore punishable by law.

“This is not a new decision. It has been in existence for some time in Oman’s traffic rules and regulations. We are reminding motorists of this since Eid Al Adha and National Day are coming up,” a reliable source at the ROP told a local newspaper. While some people are willing to express themselves by painting the complete body of their vehicles, the ROP has imposed certain restrictions. Vehicle owners can’t paint any vehicle part that obstructs the view of the driver; these include the front and back windshields, side windows, number plates, rear-view mirrors and the head or tail lights.

Drivers should also avoid decorating the bonnet of their cars with flammable fabrics or use offensive stickers to decorate their cars. Besides this, the drivers cannot use the national emblem to add beauty to their cars. “I don’t know why officials don’t allow such celebrations,” said Ahmed Juma, a private sector employee. “We don’t have any problem observing restrictions, but authorities should give us permission to install the stickers.” There have been times when the ROP has allowed motorists to paint their vehicles. Two such rare occasions were the 43rd National Day last year and after Oman had won the Gulf Cup in 2009.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

011

YOUR

OMAN Bite Sized Our weekly slot takes a lighthearted look at a news issue of the week.

Luis Suarez in Oman?

Remind me why this is news? The Uruguayan national team will play Oman in a football friendly on October 13 in Buraimi. The selection of Luis Suarez in the provisional squad is controversial though, because he is currently serving a nine-match national team ban imposed by FIFA. Why is he banned from playing? During the World Cup in Brazil earlier this year, Suarez bit Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini. He bit another player? Yes. He chomped down on Chiellini’s shoulder like a lion feeding on a gazelle. He must’ve got a bit peckish with all that running around during the game. So if he’s banned how can he play in the friendly against Oman? He can play in the game because although he is banned from domestic games and international competitions, the terms of the ban do not extend to international friendly matches. This is because the Court of Arbitration for Sport removed a clause set out in the initial ban laid-down by FIFA that barred him from all football activity. Well lets hope he doesn’t try and munch on any Omani players! Yes indeed. Although it is unlikely he will bite an Omani player, as he would be facing even more serious punishment from FIFA, which would be very damaging to his career with his new club, FC Barcelona. Does Oman have any other international games lined up? Yes they do. They will play Costa Rica on October 10 in Sohar. Don’t say: Jaws is on the pitch, run for your lives! Do say: This is a great opportunity for Oman’s national football team to play against some of the world’s top teams and for Omani football fans to witness world-class players in action.

012

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Gallery

Interview

NEWS

OMAN STEPS INTO HIJAB ROW

he Sultanate has publicly backed the decision by the Qatari women’s basketball team to walk out of the 2014 Asian Games after the players were banned from wearing the hijab. The Qatar team forfeited a match against Mongolia and walked off the court in South Korea last week after being told to remove their scarves by an official on the sidelines. Their protest made headlines around the world with the Qatari team claiming it was taking a stand on discrimination against Muslim women. The head of women’s sports at Oman’s Ministry of Sports Affairs has this week waded into the debate, speaking out in support of the Qatari team. Saada Salim al Ismaili, Director of Women’s Sports, said that Oman would follow suit if its female players found themselves in a same situation. “It was a good reaction from Qatar,” she said, speaking to a local newspaper. “The international authorities are saying that every country should include female athletes and at the same time such rules exist. We are here. If you allow us (to play with the hijab), we are ready. If you do not allow us, our action will be like Qatar’s.” She also called on other members of the GGC and all Islamic countries to show a united front. Problems began at the Games in Incheon when the Qatari girls were asked, in accordance with International Basketball Federation (FIBA) rules, to remove their hijabs to play their game. However, the players refused, saying that it violated

A WEEK IN PICTURES

their religious beliefs. FIBA rule 4.4.2 covers uniforms that players can wear, including head coverings. Other sports at the Asian Games allowed athletes to wear the hijab, including the Iranian lightweight women’s quadruple sculls team, who rowed to a bronze medal. Supporters of the Qatar women’s basketball team have pointed out that the hijab did not inhibit or interfere with their play. Al Ismaili, who is also a board member of the Oman Olympic Committee and president of the Women’s Basketball Committee, said: “I believe that the hijab does not restrict us. We can do whatever we want. It does not stop women from taking part in a sport.” FIFA, football’s governing body, agreed that head scarves could be worn for religious reasons during football matches.

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims arrive in the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia for the start of the annual Haj

Hong Kong democracy protestors defy volleys of tear gas and police baton charges in one of the biggest political challenges against China for 25 years

Hollywood heartthrob George Clooney is off the market after marrying British human rights barrister Amal Alamuddin at a starstudded ceremony in Venice

Blackberry’s Passport, a square smartphone is the new device it hopes will claw back its share of the market is unveiled to mixed reviews

NEWS

Pictures mean

prizes T

he response to Y’s selfie competition has been great again this week and the team have enjoyed all your smiley faces. Congratulations to everyone who entered and to all our winners, including Kumar (pictured below). Whether you’re a cinema junkie or a casual moviegoer, it’s time to get involved and be in with the chance to win free tickets to City Cinema. Y has 10 pairs to give away to 10 winners and it’s as simple as taking a selfie – just be sure to get City Cinema branding in the picture. Whether it’s a billboard, your tickets, or of your caramel popcorn – just be sure to catch our eye and be as creative as possible. There are seven cinema venues around the country meaning plenty of opportunities to capture the perfect selfie, from Muscat to Salalah. Check your nearest venue at wwww.citycinemaoman.com Don’t worry if you’re not a winner this week. Every participant will be automatically entered into a fortnightly draw to win a goodie bag from Capital Stores in Qurum, courtesy of City Cinema. Send your selfie to Y magazine’s Facebook or Instagram accounts and don’t forget to include your name and contact details. Make sure you follow @ytabloid, like us on Facebook and tag your entries with #citycinema and #ytabloid. The deadline for the next round of entries is Monday October 12.

Team Y wish you all the best of luck and Eid Mubarak. OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

013

YOUR

OMAN

ou’ve no doubt seen them toiling away by the side of the road or on construction sites in the blazing heat of the midday sun. Not everyone, however, would go so far as to volunteer to hand out bottles of water to workers in Muscat and beyond. That’s exactly what a team did at the weekend, when they took part in the I-Care initiative’s 14th water distribution event. The amazing gesture of goodwill began back in 2011 when a young woman witnessed a group of manual workers laying under a tree, shading their faces from the sun during their break. Shorooq Abu Nasser knew that she couldn’t just pass by; she had to do something to show these hard workers that they were appreciated. A simple act of kindness in giving them water was just the beginning. On Saturday, Shorooq was accompanied by dozens of volunteers, all willing to do their bit for the community. The aim for the morning was simple – distribute 10,000 bottles of water to manual labour workers before lunchtime and show a bit of gratitude to those who work tirelessly to build the city. Temperatures were already nudging 37 degrees as vehicles were loaded to the brim with boxes of cooled water ready to be delivered to those in need. In all, 12 areas across the city from Al Ansab to Muttrah and Azaiba to Shatti were visited. The volunteers sought out more modest building sites, the kind with

Gallery

no site manager, no tea shack and certainly no cool water readily available. Labourers working away in the scorching heat were surprised with bottles of water and expressed their gratitude as best they could. While the same language might not have been spoken, a smile is understood in any part of the world. Teams stopped for road sweepers and gardeners, at offices being built and houses under renovation. No matter where they visited they were met with smiles and waves. Along with the water, they also handed out packets of sweets to give the weary workers a much needed sugar boost (500 packets of sweets were donated to the cause by Sweets of Oman). “I’ve been out there and seen the smiling faces of the workers as we give them a cool bottle of water, that is what makes all of this worthwhile,” said Shorooq Abu Nasser. “Together we have made 10,000 workers smile with this event and that, in my opinion, is definitely a success.”

Words & photo by Heather Duncan

*Through I-Care and the Box Appeal every hashtag #UnSelfieRadissonBlu on Twitter and Instagram the Radisson will donate 1 euro to World Childhood Foundation. Website- www.icareoman.org @iCareInitiative /iCare Initiative

umbers are on the rise for this year’s box appeal. Over a thousand more boxes have been given away in the last week, bringing the total number of boxes to 3,000. The Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat has received 130 boxes so far and the hope is that with so many boxes still out there, more and more will be received over the coming weeks. The idea of the Box Appeal is to fill a shoebox with a list of 12 basic hygiene items, such as toothpaste, deodorant and shampoo, which will then be distributed to Muscat’s migrant workers. The response to the appeal has been huge so far and after the success of I-Care’s water distribution last weekend, General Manager of the Radisson Blu, Marius Wolmarans, is looking forward to what the Box Appeal has in store. “We had a small taste of what it’s like to give back at the water drive last weekend. I’m excited to start receiving more boxes so we can give back something even bigger in November.” Marius and his team from the Radisson Blu have been visiting schools in Muscat to spread the word about the appeal and encourage children to become involved in filling boxes with their families. Recently, they went to Azzan Bin Qais International School in Bawshar to talk at

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

NEWS

A DROP OF KINDNESS

Box Appeal Week 3

014

Interview

morning assembly. Marius told the schoolchildren: “One box can last these guys up to a year, that’s how special it is to them. “It’s something small that’s going to change someone’s life for a year at least.” Azwar Alraisi, 13, said that he already gives donations with his mum to labourers working near their home. “We buy them a box of ice cream and a box of cold water. “It’s important to do this. They are the ones who are actually building half of Oman. I think the Box Appeal is a great idea and I’m going to tell my mum about it. I want to fill two boxes.” Fellow pupil Emmalina Tang Min, also 13, said she had already been talking with her parents about the appeal. “I think it’s really good because I see the men working when we go to school. I do think about them, but not everyone does.” Distribution of the boxes is set to be on November 1, so be sure to get your filled boxes back to the Radisson Blu before that date. Empty boxes can be collected from the reception at the Radisson Blu, Y’s office in Seeb and the Flower Shop in Sabco Centre.

COMPETITION

Join the Box Appeal and be in with the chance to win four spots at the Radisson Blu’s BBQ Thursday. To get involved, form a team of four and try to fill as many boxes as possible. Register your team (giving team name, members, captain and contact number) with editor@y-oman.com.

GALLERY

W alkathon

It was best foot forward for hundreds who stepped out for a charity walk, marking World Heart day in the rose garden at qurum last weekend

International branches : Muscat Toronto Dubai Mumbai New Mumbai Surat. The most professional team The best solution picking the best visa type customised to your need Services at the biggest value The best customer services The best customer experience, passionate and customer focus team

Migrate to Australia, Canada, South Africa, Europe & USA AOIS The best Migration consultancy services in Oman

email your CV for free Assessment ! Services Offered : Skill Worker Skill Trade Business Migration Work Permit PNP Nomination Student Visa Visit Visa

Muscat Branch : # 32, 3rd Floor, Bldg. # 18, Behind Khimji Mart, Next to Global Money Exchange, MBD Area, Ruwi, MuscatSultanate of Oman Contact # : +968 97260250 / +968 92077061 Email : muscat@aois.ca Web : www. aois.ca www. aois-muscat.com Timing : 9:30 am - 1:00 pm 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm Monday - Saturday

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

015

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS 41. Arabian Horse

distinctive breed recognisable by it’s chiselled bone structure, proud arching neck and highly carried tail, the Arabian horse is the supermodel of the equine world. Despite their smaller than average stature, the breed is classified as a horse due to its range in height from 14.1 to 15.1 hands (below 14.2 hands is generally classed as a pony). Spirited and intelligent, the Arabian was a highly valued prize among the Bedouin people, with a close relationship developing through dependence on the animal for shelter and transport. Carried by the Bedouin into war and used for trade over the course of history, the breed spread to Europe and the Americas. Its bloodlines are present in many of today’s modern breeds. As one of the world’s most ancient breeds, there are countless stories surrounding its origin. Bedouin legend has it the horse was created from the wind and with its effortless grace and spirited character, it’s easy to see why. The Arabian horses’ disposition, form and aesthetics make it an all-round perfect breed for various disciplines. Predominantly popular in endurance racing due to its lithe build and quick feet, the breed is also a choice competitor in dressage and eventing. The horse remains highly valued throughout the Arabian Peninsula. In Oman, the Royal Cavalry registers the breed and takes care to maintain pedigree bloodlines. Local breeders are encouraged to do the same to ensure the preservation of this rich heritage. 016

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

MOVIES MOVIES For more information and times, go to: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641

Before Midnight The latest installment in a trilogy that spans nearly a decade in film, this romantic drama picks up the story of Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy), following them during a holiday in Greece. Nine years after they first met, the couple are forced to question their decisions

Revenge of the Green Dragons Hong Kong directorial duo Andrew Lau and Andrew Loo fuse eastern and western gangster film traditions to bring audiences a twisted take on the American dream. Based on real events, Revenge of the Green Dragons follows the journey of two young Chinese boys, Sonny (Justin Chon) and Steven (Kevin Wu), from their illegal immigration to New York City in the early 1980s to their subsequent recruitment into a local crime syndicate. Their rise through the ranks of the underworld is blotted by brutal betrayals and beset by hostility from the American

populace, until Sonny is forced to seek revenge on those who made him who he is. The action comes as thick and fast as the bullets, which can sometimes make the multiple crosses and double-crosses hard to follow as the body count rises exponentially. Executive producer Martin Scorsese’s influence is apparent, with the industry heavyweight bringing his considerable expertise in the genre to the table. Just don’t expect the next Goodfellas. Review by Matt Blackwell

P RE VI EW

Dracula Untold

Taking the Dracula origin story back to the drawing board, Dracula Untold deals with the man behind the myth. Transylvanian prince Vlad Tepes (Luke Evans) turns to supernatural forces when his family and kingdom are threatened. Free from the clichés of the past, Dracula Untold looks set to offer a fresh take on a classic character.

IN W O T E C N A CH R U O Y B A R G TS E K C I T A M NE I C Y T I C O TW

in life. Amusing at times, but not in a laugh out loud sense, Before Midnight offers a warming examination of the complexity of middle class relationships that many will be able to empathise with.

Drive Hard Thomas Jane plays an ex-racing driver turned driving instructor who is unwittingly forced by a skilled thief (John Cusack) into driving the getaway car in a multimillion-dollar theft, drawing the attention of some unsavoury characters in the process. More of a light hearted B-movie action romp than anything of real substance, there is a certainly a time and a place for explosions, driving stunts and one-liners.

Bollywatch Haider

An adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet that sees Haider (Shahid Kapoor), a young Kashmiri boy return home to find his father has disappeared. After his mother (Tabassum Hashmi) marries his uncle (Kay Kay Menon), Haider sets out determined to discover the truth and then avenge his father’s death.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN, just answer a question based on the week’s cinema reviews and send your answer to info@y-oman.com, along with your name and contact information. Tickets must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions, see voucher.

Brought to you by

THIS WEEKS QUESTION In which country is Before Midnight set? LAST WEEK'S WINNER Ricky Cherian

Contact: Movie enquiries 24607360

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

017

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

VIOLIN VIRTUOSIO

OCT 12 NOV 04

BE ARTY Learn a new painting technique at one of MuscArt’s upcoming workshops, which start on October 12 and will run every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday from 4.30pm to 7.30pm. Discover how to use a palette, painting knives, colour theory and mixing, combined with tips, tricks and demos. Entry to the workshop is open to those aged 15 and above and costs RO315, which includes all materials. Workshops will be conducted in both English and Arabic and will take place at the MuscArt Gallery in Ghubra Plaza on 18th November Street. For details, contact +968 24493912 or visit their website www.muscart.net

WEEK

“Poet of the Violin”, Joshua Bell will lead the renowned orchestra Academy of St Martin in the Fields with a programme including works by Beethoven and Mendelssohn on October 12 from 7.30pm at the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM). Ticket prices range from RO8 to RO60 and can be purchased online from the ROHM website. For more details, go to www.rohmuscat.org.om

Oct 17 - 18

THIS

OCT

What to do. What to see. What to hear.

O C T O B E R

SPLASH IN

Oman Sail is organising a free public beach event on October 17 and 18 at Qurum Beach next to the InterContinental Hotel Muscat. Water activities such as sailing and banana boats will be on offer for visitors to try, while kids will be able to enjoy face painting, bouncy castles, drawing and painting. The event starts at 10am and ends at 5.30pm on both days. If you’re into water sports, you won’t want to miss this one! For details, contact Oman Sail on +968 24181400.

018

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Now experience the ‘art of healing’ in Oman

With the opening of Burjeel Medical Centre in Muscat, Burjeel Hospital, the UAE’s leading tertiary care facility, brings the unique ‘art of healing’ closer to you. Conveniently located on Sultan Qaboos Street in Al Azaiba, burjeel medical centre is poised to usher in a new era in healthcare in Muscat.

specialty services will include: General Medicine • Pediatrics • Obstetrics and Gynecology • Dental • Dermatology

For more information call: 22085252, Building No. 136-144, Way No. 270, Azaibah-North, Sultanate of Oman. info@bmcoman.com l www.bmcoman.com

reast Taking On

020

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Cancer

Women in Oman are joining together to beat the biggest killer of females in the country, breaking down cultural taboos in the process, reports Ailish Fleming in Y’s Breast Cancer Special

e’ve all been there, standing in front of the mirror deciding whether you should go short or long, get a fringe or go for a change. For 33-year-old Raya, however, this wasn’t just a haircut, this was cancer. A few months earlier, Raya had been diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering a lump. She was about to start chemotherapy and knew it meant losing her long, dark hair. Staring ahead into the mirror, she steeled herself for the loss of a part big of her femininity. Worldwide, breast cancer causes an estimated half a million deaths per annum and is the most common cancer amongst women in Oman. Many cases are fatal due to late diagnosis, but that is slowly beginning to change. With October officially “Breast Cancer Awareness Month”, campaigns to highlight the issue are under way. More and more of the Sultanate’s women are becoming aware of the disease and the negative implications of letting it lie quietly, including women like Raya, who shared her story with Y. “It was my cousin who told me we should be checking regularly. I had no idea. When I went home that day I found a lump,” says Raya, now 36. It took her two months to finally see the doctor. “I thought maybe it was just my imagination, that the lump would go away.” But it never did and after confiding in her sister, Raya went to the hospital. Tests confirmed she had cancer. Her reaction when the doctor uttered the words, “You have cancer” wasn’t what you’d expect. “I smiled,” she says. “When we went outside, my sister-in-law asked me if I understood what the doctor had said. She’s a nurse and so she explained again. I said that I understood, but I was ok. I had faith.” Raya’s main concern was not how the cancer would affect her, but how her diagnosis would affect her parents, her mother in particular. “It took me a week to tell them. I told her that I wasn’t worried about myself, but I was worried about her. She got the point and she was strong because she knew I was strong.” She talks matter of factly about her illness and her resolve to be resilient throughout shines through. A month after the initial diagnosis, Raya had surgery to remove the lump. One wasn’t enough; in the space of a year

Dr Yuthar al Rawahy, Founder and Chairperson of Oman Cancer Association

she underwent three different operations. Then came the months of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. “I wasn’t scared of the treatment, but I had done some research about the side effects, which scared me.” It was at her first radiotherapy appointment that she was delivered another blow, “They told me I would need two types of hormone therapy, one of which would prevent me from having children. I was engaged to be married and they were telling me I couldn’t have children. I refused and only took one of the therapies. Emotionally, that was the most difficult day.” Her physical struggles started with the radiation. “It made my skin burn, even the lightest material would irritate me.” For 25 days, Raya’s family never left her bedside, taking it in turns to be with her while she underwent radiotherapy. Weeks later came chemo; four rounds in total. “I hated the idea of killing all the cells,” Raya says. “But I knew it was for the best in the long run.” It was about this time that Raya turned to the Oman Cancer Association (OCA). “I wanted to know what to do with my hair and so I emailed Dr Yuthar.” The Honourable Dr Yuthar al Rawahy, who is the founder of the OCA (originally know as the National Association for Cancer Awareness), is herself a cancer survivor and a woman who has fought the disease relentlessly for the past 20 years. “Dr Yuthar recommended I cut it short,” says Raya, which she did. “I had it cut to my shoulders and then when it started to fall out, it didn’t feel like it was really my hair I was losing.” The final rounds of chemotherapy were the hardest part of Raya’s fight. Physically and emotionally drained, she very nearly refused more treatment, but her friends and family convinced her that with the end so near she could push through. In February the following year, Raya got married, “My husband saw my short hair for the first time and he told me I was beautiful.” However, it wasn’t quite the happy ending it appeared to be. Seven months after the marriage, Raya discovered she was pregnant. They immediately went to the doctor, who recommended that they terminate the pregnancy on medical grounds for the sake of her health. She was told there was now no choice but to accept the second type of hormone

treatment she had initially refused. Whether there will be children or not in Raya’s future is uncertain, but with just over year of hormone treatment left, maintaining her health is the main focus for her and her husband. It’s fair to say life has been a roller coaster for Raya these past few years. However, she was lucky to be diagnosed when the cancer was in its early stages, thanks largely to the awareness of her family and improved facilities here in Oman. Others have not been so lucky. Diagnosed for the first time in 1998, when there was no cancer centre in Oman, Dr al Rawahy had to leave behind her family for treatment overseas. “When I came back, I realised no one was speaking about breast cancer. All my friends, who were coming to see me, who had prayed for me, were telling me this disease is a punishment.” Dr al Rawahy decided that something needed to be done to help other people in her position. “I gathered a group of friends, other survivors and some expats. We had a brainstorm and decided we needed to gauge how much the public knew about breast cancer.” They arranged a meeting and were shocked at the turnout. Of the 200 women invited, every single one was present. “The people were hungry for information,” she says, and it was after this that Dr al Rawahy decided to set up the National Association for Cancer Awareness. In the 12 years since becoming an established NGO, the OCA has come on in leaps and bounds. It hasn’t been an easy journey and Dr al Rawahy recalls one moment in particular. “At one of our first stands, people came and threw pamphlets at our faces, calling us devils.” Yet she persevered and now women like Raya receive treatment all over the country. “We [the OCA] used to be tucked away in Azaiba, but now we’re here on the main road; people can see us and they are coming in.” Plenty of progression has been made over the years and hospitals are now diagnosing far less late stage cases. However, there remains a stigma surrounding the disease, with many people still under the impression that a diagnosis of breast cancer means certain death. “If you fall and you think you’re going to die, then of course you’re going to be afraid,” Dr al Rawahy says, highlighting the fact that the more we talk about cancer, the less of a demon it becomes. She says that for survivors of cancer, talking to relatives is incredibly difficult. Raya echoes this sentiment. “I worry it will come back, but I keep it inside. It’s important to believe in myself and stay positive.” It’s for that reason that the support of other survivors is invaluable and it’s why more women need to come forward to speak about the disease. “Fifty per cent of cancer treatment is counselling,” Dr al Rawahy says. “We need counsellors in health centres to help people achieve the belief they will fight it.” Trained counsellors help patients to fully understand their treatments, which is something Raya found she would have benefitted from. “My first two rounds of chemo were

Y’s Kate Ginn talks about her experience of having her mother diagnosed with breast cancer

s I sat on the hospital bed holding my mum’s hand before she went into surgery, I remember thinking how unfair it all was. Unfair that my beautiful mum had been diagnosed with such a dreadful disease, unfair that this monster was an unwelcome intruder in our lives and unfair that I was unable to do anything to help her, beyond being there. I wanted to make it all go away and make my mum better. I wanted my old mum back, not this vulnerable-looking mum sitting in a blue-and-white hospital gown waiting for a mastectomy to remove her diseased right breast. The preceding weeks had been a blur since my eldest brother had called me at work late one night to break the news that a lump had been found. There had been no preamble or warning. I hadn’t been told that my mother had been recalled a week before after a routine mammogram. So I wasn’t prepared in the slightest for the emotional maelstrom that was to follow or the terror of losing my mum that kept me awake at night, or the agony of watching someone you love go through such pain. A gruelling merry-go-round of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery followed. Cancerous cells were found in her lymph glands in the armpit, meaning it could be on the move silently around her body. My mum diminished before my eyes, losing weight as well as her thick black hair, shrinking away until she was almost a translucent ghostly figure. Throughout it all, my mum showed tremendous fortitude and strength. It was those around her who struggled to cope, as is often the case. Support, from friends, family, professionals or those in the same boat, is so important to provide a safe haven or a friendly metaphorical shoulder to lean on. Despite living 535km away, I made every chemotherapy session. I would sit with her to read or just talk, in a room filled with hollowcheeked cancer sufferers hooked up to drips with needles in their veins. I helped her as the chemo made her violently sick. I tried to make my mum feel normal and, as the treatment ended and she started to regain her strength, reclaim herself as a person, wife and mother. It’s fair to say that all of us – my mum, dad and the children (three brothers and I) – all changed after her illness. Our worlds shifted and would never be the same again. Priorities altered and time became more precious, a commodity not to be wasted. There was a brief respite before my mum became ill again. I think her body never really recovered from the toxic shock of the chemo, which weakened her immune system. She died at the age of 74, two weeks before my 40th birthday. I was with her at the end and miss her every single day. I would give anything for just 30 more seconds with my mum. She has left me – and many others – with a wonderful legacy, though. She taught me to never give up in the face of adversity and to keep fighting until the very end.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

THE PULSE OF

OMAN

021

Y’s Matt Blackwell talks about his experience of having his mother diagnosed with breast cancer

hate clichés, but I can remember 2008 like it was yesterday. My uncle was getting married in Mauritius in early September and we’d booked a family holiday to celebrate the union with him. It had been a busy summer so far; I had collected my A-Level results, said some emotional farewells to old school friends and was gearing up to start the next stage of my education – a degree in English Literature at Newcastle University. I was busy deciding which of the current posters in my room would give me a suitable level of credibility at university when my mum called me down to the kitchen. My mother, normally all cheers and smiles, had a solemn look on her face as she explained that she and my stepdad had to cancel their tickets to Mauritius, but that they still wanted me to go. After pressing the issue with further questions, she somewhat reluctantly conceded, “Matt, I’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer.” I expected floods of tears, but they never came. It was as if the wind had been knocked out of me and I just stood there dumbfounded. My mum had asked me to be her rock and I went straight upstairs to research super foods to give her every chance to beat this disease. I would not allow myself to imagine any alternative outcome. Mauritius came and went with an understandably subdued air and before I knew it, I was starting university. Although we would speak on the phone every week, it was so difficult knowing my mother was undergoing surgery, radiotherapy and then chemotherapy all while I was 320km away, completely helpless. This was the first time cancer had touched my life and I will never forget how fragile my mother looked following a chemo session when I returned home to visit one winter. The few strands of hair that remained were a wispy grey, a far cry from the vibrant red I was used to and her strength was completely drained. It was incredibly distressing. Even with the chemo, my mother was still one of the most resilient people I’d come across and not once did she let the illness overcome her. She battled through with the help of some fantastic medical staff in the UK and has thankfully been free from cancer for more than five years now, completing numerous fundraising activities for the British charity Breast Cancer Care along the way.

022

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

difficult because my veins were so small.” She recalls her hands swelling up and the treatment being incredibly slow. “No one explained to me in the beginning that portacath surgery [an implant under the skin to feed the chemo into her vein] would make it easier, so I refused. I just didn’t want more surgery.” When it was finally made clear the surgery would improve treatment, Raya accepted and started her third round of chemo the next day. “I just wish I had understood from the start that it would have been better.” Education and awareness are both essential. Oman will play host to the 3rd European and Asian Conference of Breast Cancer on October 28, which aims to increase mass awareness about the importance of early detection. More than 600 Omani women will attend workshops and educational lectures in the hope of improving rates of diagnosis in the country. “Breast cancer is no longer as big a danger as it was decades ago thanks to early detection, accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, which have helped us to save many lives,” says Dr Adel al Ajmi, chairman of the breaast cancer conference and a senior consultant for the Department of Breast Surgery at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. The Oman Cancer Association aims to educate and support survivors and has helped so many women, yet very few return to support the association by sharing their experiences, in part due to the stigma that still lingers around the disease. There is no reason why breast cancer should remain a silent killer. “It’s important to know you can help each other, to share experiences,” Raya says of her experience with the association. “You have to accept support,” adds Dr al Rawahy. “You need people.” After 15 years free from cancer, Dr al Rawahy, who had previously fought thyroid, breast and uterus cancer, received news of her fourth diagnosis last year, when early stage invasive breast cancer was found during a routine check-up. “I can’t stress enough: follow up once you are a cancer survivor,” she says. “People assume once you’re five or 10 years’ clear you can relax, but you can’t. I’m an example of that.” Now 36 and with a year-and-half of hormone treatment left, Raya continues to check herself and attends monthly appointments. “My uncle passed away because of it [cancer] and I’d always thought of

things I could do to help, but never that it would be me. “Self-examination is really important, you should examine yourself monthly and don’t ignore even the smallest changes.” Cancer has no boundaries; women like Raya coming forward to share their experiences are central to spreading the word about cancer in Oman and breaking through cultural taboos surrounding breast cancer. Her story and those of others like her are immensely important, not just for survivors and sufferers, but for doctors to improve treatment and develop research for generations to come. The last word goes to Raya, who affirms: “Women shouldn’t be ashamed of breast cancer, it’s just a disease, like any other. And it can be cured.”

All my friends, who were coming to see me, who had prayed for me, were telling me this disease is a punishment. I gathered a group of friends, other survivors and some expats. We had a Brainstorm and decided we needed to gauge how much the public knew about breast cancer

BREAST CANCER, THE FACTS ● Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. ● Each year, more than 1.15 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer all over the world and more than half a million died in 2011 due to breast cancer (Global Health Estimates, World Health Organization 2013). ● Incidence rates vary from 19.3 per 100,000 women in Eastern Africa to 89.7 per 100,000 women in Western Europe. Breast cancer survival rates range from 80 per cent or more in North America, Sweden and Japan to below 40 per cent in low-income countries. Low survival rates are mainly due to lack of early detection or inadequate diagnosis and treatment.

BREAST CANCER, THE STATS ● In Oman, it represents about 16.4% of all cancers in women. There were 122 cases of breast cancer in the Sultanate in 2010 and the number of cases among the younger generation has risen, with 18.3 cases per 100,000 women aged between 30-44, according to the Ministry of Health. ● There are many factors that increase the probability of breast cancer. Excessive intake of fats and weight gain (about 40 per cent more than ideal weight) are known risk factors that can be easily avoided.

BREAST CANCER, BE AWARE ● A woman can detect breast cancer early through regular self-examination of her breasts. If a woman finds something abnormal about her breast such as swelling, change of shape or blood discharge from the nipple, she should seek medical help immediately. * Source: The Ministry of Health, Oman

HOW DO I CHECK MY BREASTS? ● Try to get used to looking at and feeling your breasts regularly. You can do this in the bath or shower, when you use body lotion, or when you get dressed. There’s really no need to change your everyday routine. Just decide what you are comfortable with and what suits you best.

BREAST AWARENESS POINTS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

You should know what is normal for you Know what changes to look for Look and feel Tell your doctor about any changes straight away Go for breast screening when invited

• Source Breast Cancer Care

● Remember to check all parts of your breast, your armpits and up to your collarbone.

Oman Cancer Association (OCA)   P.O Box 736, Athaiba , Postal Code 130 Tel: 2449 8716  Toll Free No: 800 77477  Email: info@oca.om  Website: www.oca.om

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

023

YOUR

CLEAN UP

ACT

Y’s campaign to get Oman clearing up its rubbish continues as we score one small victory, but find more to do

t’s one of the most desirable residential parts of Muscat with a lush green park for families and streets lined with whitewashed pristine homes. Such a shame, then, that someone would want to blight Qurum by dumping piles of garbage in a wadi backing onto people’s villas. A reader sent us some photographs taken from their roof overlooking the valley, which has been used as a makeshift rubbish dump by some construction workers. Bits of wood and plaster have simply been thrown down rather than being taken away by the workers and disposed of properly. Look closely and you can even see the wooden chute used to pour away the waste. “They dumped the garbage every day,” said the reader who sent us the photographs of the detritus near his home in Fahoud Street, Qurum. “Then when they finished, they threw the chute into the wadi as well. There is all kinds

024

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

of garbage in these piles and there’s a lot of it.” Fed up with piles of rubbish dumped around the streets of Muscat, Y has launched a “Clean Up Your Act” campaign, urging us all – individuals, companies and authorities – to take responsibility for keeping Oman beautiful. Our readers have been sending in photographs of the worst offenders, naming and shaming areas that need to be cleaned up. Stefania Celano shared a few pictures showing several months worth of building materials in front of houses in North Ghubrah, near the beach on Way 3632. Once again, construction workers seemed to be the culprits for the trash. Discarded material had even been thrown on the floor next to green rubbish bins. Near Y’s own office in Seeb, there is junk that hasn’t been cleared for many months, piles of rubble, metal pipes and garden debris.

Our campaign does seem to be working, however. Y reader Gautam Chakraborty contacted us last month about some uncollected refuse that had been left rotting near his home in Al Hail South for some time. After we published photographs of the mess – an old mattress, broken furniture, cardboard and rugs – in our September 11 edition (Issue 336), the area was cleaned up and everything removed. It’s a small victory, but each and every step is important in the war on rubbish. We’re going to need everyone to join us in the fight if we are going to be successful in cleaning up Oman. Do you have similar problems with rubbish or have you seen garbage horrors like the ones featured on these pages? Email your comments and photos to editor@yoman.com, or post on Y’s Facebook page and hashtag it #loadofrubbish or our Instagram account – don’t forget to follow and tag @ymagazine.

rah

ub North Gh

l Al Hai

Al Hai

Al Hail

Qurum

Al Hail

Seeb They dumped the garbage every day, there is all kinds of garbage in these piles and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of it.

Seeb

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

025

HE VULTUR Has Landed 026

Steps to preserve one of the biggest birds in the Sultanate’s skies have been hugely successful, Y finds during a trip into the hills Photos: Jerzy Wierzbicki

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

n a cloudless blue expanse, a shadow suddenly crosses over above us, briefly darkening the sky. Soaring overhead, the sight of an Egyptian Vulture in full flight is quite impressive. Its massive wingspan of up to 1.7 metres (5.6 feet) can carry it for hundreds of kilometres in search of food. Oman has been working hard to protect its Egyptian Vultures, providing a safe haven for the magnificent creatures to call home and it seems to be paying off. The Egyptian Vulture population is rising in Oman. Up to 80 pairs have been spotted on Masirah Island alone, according to the Environment Society of Oman (ESO), which has been running the Egyptian Vulture Conservation Project to save the birds. The bird is classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In the mid-1990s, the worldwide population crashed, mainly due to inadvertent poisoning through a drug used for livestock, which the vultures ingested when eating contaminated meat. Oman’s Egyptian Vultures – most of which are residents as opposed to migratory birds just passing through – are scattered around the Sultanate. As well as Masirah, colonies can be seen in the governorates of Muscat, Al Dhahirah, Ad Dakhliyah, Al Batinah, Al Sharqiyah, Musandam and Dhofar. Y was lucky enough to see some of the birds after being invited to a field visit near Amerat, led by Omar al Sheikhly, an Iraqi wildlife expert working with ESO. We were told that a concentrated number of the vultures could be found here and sure enough, it wasn’t long before we spotted the magnificent creatures circling in the sky above. “ESO initiated this project in early 2012 with the expectation of identifying just 12 pairs of Egyptian Vultures at their main feeding grounds on Masirah Island,” says Dr Hamed al Gheilani, ESO Outreach Manager. “Our research determined there were an estimated 65 to 80 breeding pairs, over four times the amount last estimated in the 1980s.” For the next phase of the ongoing project, researchers will turn their attention to nesting sites for the vultures and how best to preserve them.

ESO initiated this project in early 2012 with the expectation of identifying just 12 pairs of Egyptian Vultures at their main feeding grounds on Masirah Island. Our research determined there were an estimated 65-80 breeding pairs, over four times the amount last estimated in the 1980s

EGYPTIAN VULTURES – THE LOWDOWN  The Egyptian Vulture is one of 23 species of vulture in the world  They are also known as White Scavenger Vultures and Pharaoh’s Chickens  They have no natural predators, except humans  Egyptian Vultures are monogamous and breed once a year  Their nests are usually built in the cracks of cliffs and mountains. They lay 1-3 eggs and incubation lasts for 39-45 days. The youngsters fledge at 71-85 days old and are independent when they are about four months old  Scavengers, they feed on carrion (carcasses), insects, crustaceans, reptiles, young mammals and fledglings. They also eat eggs, using stones to break open the shells  They achieve their full adult plumage at about five years of age  They can weigh up to 2kg  In captivity, they can live for up to 37 years  Their natural habitat is elevated regions in North Africa, southern Europe and Asia Source: Environment Society of Oman and www.theanimalfiles.com

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

027

food and drink

Oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Riches

Paella is a dish synonymous with Spanish cuisine, offering an authentic taste of the country and a feast for all the senses.

028

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

TREND New Restaurant

News

Spanish

Fiesta

Spanish cooking is all about fire and passion. Adam Hurrell finds that Catalan food expert Jordi Gimeno has plenty of both when they sit down for a chat

ifawy Boutique Hotel will be hosting Oman’s first Spanish Food Fiesta from October 3 to 10 under the guidance of world-renowned chef Jordi Gimeno. Y was lucky enough to grab five minutes with Chef Jordi for a sneak peak of what we can expect from the festival, as well as tips on how to bring some pizzazz to the plate. Marinade

Y Magazine (Y): Tell us about the Spanish Food Fiesta – what dishes and flavours can we look forward to experiencing? Chef Jordi (CJ): The design of Sifawy Boutique Hotel is a combination of Omani heritage and contemporary modern design. In the same manner, my recipes stem from the Catalan heritage, but offer a modern twist. During the Spanish Food Festival, I will be using combinations of succulent ingredients from the sea and from the land to come up with unique creations that combine the authentic flavours of Spain. (Y): That sounds delicious. What, in your opinion, separates Catalan cooking from other cuisines? (CJ): Catalan food is full of identity and that is what makes it so special. It is based on products straight from the ground, adapted to the seasons and traditional cultures, while showing a great deal of personality in its presentation and, above all, an exquisite taste. Another factor that led to the success of Catalan cooking is the diversity of Catalonia’s landscape, which produces a large quantity of ingredients that help you to create a multitude of different dishes that correspond to their geographic origins. Above all, it is about possessing the passion for food and creation of new recipes. (Y): You are known for your seafood and fish dishes, in particular. How do you feel your cooking may be influenced by spending time in Oman, a country with a rich history of seafood? (CJ): Of course, this is the great thing about working with new chefs in new countries: we share recipes and knowledge. Every chef has something to offer, therefore, we inspire each other and I cannot wait to learn how chefs in Oman cook seafood. (Y): What are you hoping to achieve with this festival – is it merely a case of celebrating the wonders of Catalan cooking or does it have a wider goal? (CJ): It is about sharing knowledge and expertise and obviously interacting with the locals and learning more about Omani culture. Of course, I like to present the wonders of Catalan cuisine, but enjoying new countries

where I have never been before and working with top local chefs is something I am really looking forward to. (Y): As a Catalan chef who has worked all over the world, how has your own cooking developed with your travels? (CJ): Travel helps any chef develop new ideas and recipes. Interacting with a wide variety of cultures enables you to be more creative in the kitchen. When I am around other chefs who possess different experiences to my own, I do not shy away from asking questions – cooking is an ongoing learning process. (Y): Is this festival part of a tour or is it only coming to Oman on this occasion? (CJ): It was not planned to be a tour, but now it seems like a tour because I have just finished a food festival in Baku, Azerbaijan. After Oman, I will be sharing my creations with Catalan food fanatics in Bahrain, Malaysia and Tunisia. I am looking forward to an amazing 10 weeks of rewarding new experiences.

On October 3 and 10, 2014 Al Sabla restaurant – Brunch buffet 12.30pm to 4pm Breeze Lounge – Tapas menu 6pm to 12am

4-9 October, 2014 Al Sabla restaurant – Themed set menu 6pm to 10.30pm Breeze Lounge – Tapas menu 6pm to 12am For reservations, call +968 2474 9111 or email reservations@sifawyhotel.com www.sifawyhotel.com

Seafood Paella Ingredients

• 1 prawn • 1 langoustine • 20g squid or cuttlefish • 2 mussles • 2 clams • 5g green pepper • 10g red pepper • 60g rice • 1.5L fish stock • 10g onion • 3g garlic • 10g tomato • 1 tsp saffron

Recipe

Method 1) Cut the squid into small pieces. 2) Lightly pan fry the prawn and langoustine. Use the same oil to fry the garlic and finely chopped onion. 3) In a separate pan, fry the green and red peppers and tomato until cooked. 4) Add the squid and cook until it softens, then add the rice. 5) Pour the fish stock over equally because the rice will not be stirred after. 6) Season and add the garlic, onion, prawn, langoustine, mussels and clams. 7) Place in the oven and cook for 1314 minutes at 200ºC.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

029

food and drink

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

Reviews

Info Box

Tche Tche Café

Al Shati Street, Qurum, Muscat Opening times: 9am-1.30am Tel: +968 2457 1313 Lunch for two with drinks: RO21

Verdict 5 / 10 Service 6 / 10 Food 8 / 10 Ambience Average food in a great location Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

Food with a View The beach views are undeniably exquisite, but the food and service can be hit and miss, as Matt Blackwell discovers on a visit Tche Tche Café

ounded more than 15 years ago, the Jordanian casual dining chain has since sprung up in countries around the GCC region, including an enviable location overlooking Qurum Beach. According to its website, Tche Tche Café prides itself on its stylish, contemporary design, which, in all fairness they have got absolutely spot on with their Muscat branch. The building is a sleek combination of smooth lines and tall glass windows that allow the light to flood in. Green shrubs line the length of the building, providing a pleasant counterbalance to the café’s striking red branding. While this is a food review as opposed to an architectural assessment, first impressions matter when it comes to capturing potential customers and Tche Tche was already scoring highly in this department as I made my way there for a business appointment. The café is a popular shisha location and my companion, Yahya, expressed a desire to sit upstairs so that the smoke didn’t interfere with our dining experience. We arrived at 2pm on a weekday and while downstairs was relatively bustling, we found the second level deserted save for ourselves and one other solitary customer, giving the place a calm atmosphere. The upstairs

030

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

was well ventilated, with open windows allowing a blissful sea breeze to ventilate the space, giving the whole area somewhat of a terrace feel, despite the fact that there was a roof above our heads. We were promptly handed menus and I leafed through to the drinks section, settling on a pineapple juice. Once Yahya had made his choice, the waiter remained at our table somewhat awkwardly, expecting us to order food almost immediately. The menu at Tche Tche is quite sizeable and I found the hovering waiter quite disconcerting, eventually asking him to give us five minutes before taking our order. What started out as almost over-attentiveness soon dissolved into seeming disinterest and it took a very long time for him to return. As it happens, this actually suited us fine because I was there for a business lunch and found myself deep in conversation with Yahya. Once our order finally reached the kitchen, it arrived within a suitable timeframe and was relatively pleasing to the eye. My shish tawooq did create some initial confusion, though, as at the bottom of the menu there is a note saying, “All dishes are served with mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables”, yet here I was staring at French fries and a side salad. Not quite what I had in mind, but I adjusted my expectations accordingly and tucked in. The chicken had been marinated with Tche Tche’s special blend of homemade spices before being superbly grilled. The overall result was some incredibly succulent and tender chunks of great tasting chicken. The sliced green pepper it was served with was tepid in parts and as for the French fries and side salad? Well they were French fries and a side salad. My dining companion opted for a simple rucola salad, a light and healthy option consisting of rucola leaves, fresh mushrooms and parmesan cheese drizzled with a house dressing. The portion size was huge, with the salad served in a

deep bowl. However, my hungry lunch partner managed to polish it off without trouble and proclaimed it “perfect”. Desert was a similarly mixed affair, with my slab of chocolate brownie disappointingly dry, even when smothered in the accompanying ice cream. Thankfully, though, the Turkish double coffee I’d ordered had enough of a fragrant kick to dispel the brownie from my palette, not to mention wash the lumps down. At the other end of the spectrum was the knafeh, which Yahya had excitedly ordered after discovering I had never come across the dish. Despite hesitation when I learned of the ingredients, I was intrigued and found the cheese pastry soaked in a sweet sugarbased syrup and served with chopped pistachios not only tasty, but also incredibly moreish. Overall, our dining experience was a mixed success, but with the afternoon waning and the upstairs becoming increasingly populated by shisha smokers, it’s clear to see where Tche Tche’s focus lies and where the bulk of their trade comes from. It offers middle of the road café fare that, when combined with impressive panoramic views of Qurum Beach, make it an attractive option for a no-frills lunch.

HEALTH& BEAUTY

SLITHERING BACK INTO STYLE From handbags to heels

and everything in between, snakeskin bites back as this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s must-have trend. Give understated grey an exotic shot with this classy Calvin Klein number.

032

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Health

Beauty

fashion

SECOND

This versatile belt from M&S can be worn with jeans or to define a loose shirt dress. From RO8

SKIN

Snake inspired pieces are sure to charm Muscat’s fashion pack, says Penny Fray

Animal prints in classic neutral shades slot seamlessly into any wardrobe. Mango’s modern top has a sporty feel that looks great with skinny pants. From RO28

popped into M&S for a new handbag, then Zara for a little snakeskin number that I’ve been lusting after for weeks. If I was a hiphaul girl, I would have posted my items on YouTube for you to have a peek – but I’m over 30 and don’t really see the point of filming myself surrounded by shopping bags before enthusiastically pulling items out of their wrapping. Inane as this trend seems, there are countless numbers of these videos on YouTube, the most popular being viewed millions of times. They’re more than 21st-century odes to materialism – they’re expressions of taste. And mine veers towards animal print. A teeny bit bored of my signature leopard, snakeskin is the sultry alternative to animal print this season. Obviously, it has to be replica rather than real, but reptile is always a clever way to lift subtle neutrals like grey or taupe. The look made its 2014 debut in the cruise collections of both Stella McCartney and Lanvin, before snaking its way into autumn with Gucci and Givenchy. The print looked so pretty mixed with butterfly spots in the latter show, while Akris developed a kind of marble effect for extra drama. If you’re not keen on wearing snakeskin from head to toe, stick to low key accessories like a clutch or shoe. Wearing just one serpentine element at a time makes it more memorable than a mash-up of trendy tribal patterns.

Lanvin’s Trilogy collection is inspired by creative director Alber Elbaz’s signature draping and folding techniques. Fully lined in grosgrain, this Italian-made elaphe tote has internal leather panels for added structure and can be carried by the top handles or the detachable shoulder strap. The zipped and patch pockets are perfect for organising smaller items. From RO1,370

Marc by Marc Jacobs’ light gray and charcoal snake print phone cover is made from supple silicone. Sleek and lightweight, it will protect your Samsung from scratches and knocks without adding bulk. Available at Net-a-Porter from RO28

Add a hint of exoticism to relaxed looks with Zara’s faux snakeskin slippers. This lightweight pair will comfortably take you from day to dinner in style. Wear them at the weekend with a cashmere sweater and jeans, switching to a crisp blouse and tuxedo pants for evening. From RO18

Haider Ackermann’s metallic leggings are made from mock python and suede and backed with a layer of stretch for sculpting shape. Jersey side panels give this super sleek pair extra flexibility. Available for RO1,347 at Net-a-Porter

PRETTY IN PYTHON

Penny’s tips on updating snakeskin for the autumn season:

1. A splash of colour makes this exotic print even more special. Try mustard or oxblood for extra 1970s sizzle. 2. Go wild by mixing snake with leopard. Even better, look bang on trend with a mash-up of tribal prints. 3. Not feeling brave? Stick to subtle grey. Not only is it the classiest of colours – it’s the coolest.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

033

HEALTH& BEAUTY

Beauty

Health

Fashion

The Minerals? Have you got

Vitamin aisles can be a daunting place. Y gives women the lowdown on what to buy and when to take it

s a woman, keeping your body healthy is an important task. Whether you are in your childbearing years, taking folic acid for a healthy baby, or in your post-menopausal years, taking extra calcium for healthy bones, there are various vitamins for women to consider at every stage of life. It’s no secret that the use of vitamins has become the norm for most people. Vitamins can help prevent diseases such as cancer or osteoporosis, while also filling in nutrition gaps not covered in your daily diet. Dr Zainab Jassim, a general practitioner at Burjeel Medical Centre in Azaiba, believes that “a healthy brain is the way to a healthy body and soul”, and that this can be achieved by “following a healthy diet composed of fruits, vegetables, nuts, cereals and minerals, combined with regular exercise”. This diet can also be supported with daily supplements of multivitamins. Trends in women’s nutrition From TV talk shows to the local nightly news programmes, women are never at a loss for nutritional information targeted directly towards them. Use this list of some of the popular vitamins and supplements that have recently made headlines to help you decide whether they fit into your health and wellness regime. Multivitamins While most of the nutrients contained within multivitamins can be found in food, taking

034

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

one daily can fill in any missing gaps. When shopping for the right product, note that not all multivitamins are created equal. Some varieties offer a different amount of nutrients targeted to a specific age group or function, such as Centrum Silver Women 50+ Multivitamin tablets, which provides additional support for breast and bone health. Omega-3 supplements Perhaps one of the most talked about nutrition products on the market, omega-3 fish oil supplements have been praised by various health professionals for their heart-health benefits. Supportive, but not conclusive, research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Some products come with a special coating to minimise the unfavourable aftertaste often associated with such pills. Vitamin D “Daily exposure to natural sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D,” Dr Jassim tells Y, but did you know it can also be found in small increments in fatty fishes and in fortified dairy and cereal products? Supplements of vitamin D3 have been shown to reduce the risk of bone loss and fractures in elderly people aged 62–85 years.

Calcium Your body requires calcium to keep bones healthy and strong throughout life. This bonestrengthening nutrient reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis. To increase your calcium intake, try the Nature Made Calcium 600 mg with Vitamin D Dietary Supplement Liquid Softgels, which provide additional vitamin D to promote calcium absorption. Folic acid Folic acid is known to reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida in babies. “All women should take folic acid supplements at least one month before attempting to conceive a child and continue for the first three months of pregnancy,” says Dr Jassim. Preventive Solutions for Women A general understanding of the many uses for vitamins and supplements can greatly improve a woman’s health and wellbeing. Invest in your future by taking advantage of health testing services where available. Services to look out for include: • • • •

Cholesterol Blood glucose Blood pressure Body composition

Talk to your physician about your test results.

Health

SHINEON

Beauty F a s h i o n

Your Skincare Expert

Everything is better when the sun is shining, although it’s important to stay safe, too. Y goes to Kaya Skin Clinic for some expert advice

ear-round sunshine means we’re able to enjoy the benefits of a perpetual summer in Oman. Sun, sea and sand are all part of the package, but coming home with sunburn is one surefire way to spoil the fun. Keeping your smiles sunny and skin safe is easy if you follow a couple of cardinal rules. The first rule of sun safety is pretty much a given, but just to hammer it home, don’t skip the sun cream. “You should never be in the sun without sun cream,” says expert dermatologist Dr Maria Vega of Muscat’s Kaya Skin clinic, who recommends a minimum SPF 30 cream regardless of your skin pigment. Fairer people may want to use an SPF 50, however, Dr Maria explains there isn’t much difference. What’s essential is early application, ideally 20 to 30 minutes before exposure to the sun. To keep yourself and your family protected, look out for broad-spectrum creams that include both UVA and UVB protection. Cover up where possible and be sure to re-apply sun cream every couple of hours. As we all know, weekends spent swimming and playing football on Oman’s beautiful beaches can often lead to things getting a little sweaty.

WITH KAYA SKIN CLINIC

Kaya’s newly developed Advanced Range SPF 30 “Sweat-Proof ” sun cream gives up to eight hours’ protection without feeling heavy on the skin, making it perfect for days when you’re in and out of the sea or being active outside. Sun cream is by far the most important factor in protecting your skin from the sun, but seeking shade and keeping yourself covered wherever possible are also both advisable. Young skin is particularly sensitive, so be sure to use a higher SPF on children. Kids are forever moving around, so you should reapply sun cream every few hours, regardless of the factor you use. While cosmetic issues like hyperpigmentation can be a worry for some, what’s more concerning is the risk of skin cancer. You should check your skin regularly for any changes and if anything looks strange it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical assistance. Sunshine keeps us all happy and Dr Maria recommends getting your daily dose of vitamin D in the morning or evening, when the sun’s rays aren’t as strong. “Avoid the hours between 11am and 3pm,” she advises. “But 10 minutes in the morning and in the evening can be beneficial.”

Beauty Q&A with Dr Maria Vega:

Dark spots

“I have dark patches of skin all over my face and it really upsets me as they aren’t just little dots like freckles and I sometimes feel quite self-conscious.” Patches of darker skin are particularly common among darker-skinned patients. Exposure to the sun causes the skin to produce excess melanin, which results in the patches. I would recommend using an exfoliator as this will remove some of the melanin and allow for regrowth. An uneven skin tone can also be renewed with chemical peels. Here at Kaya, we offer one called Revive. It requires a couple of sessions ,but is effective. Such peels will lighten some of the patches so they become less noticeable. Always remember to use a good sun cream in order to prevent further darkening.

Oman’s climate means we all have to take extra care of our skin. Luckily, Kaya Skin Clinic is on hand with its specialist range and we’re offering one lucky Y reader the chance to win with our “Happy Moments in the Sun” competition. We want you to show us how easy it is to have safe fun in the sun. To enter, just send us a photo of you and your family or friends enjoying the outdoors, while being protected from the rays. The best picture will win a bottle of Kaya’s Sweat-Proof Sunscreen, the first of its kind in Oman. Designed by dermatologists with an SPF 30+, the cream is water and sweat resistant, providing a broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays for up to eight hours.

Non-greasy, the sunscreen allows the skin to breathe and is the perfect protection formula for sports or a day at the beach. To be in with a chance of winning a bottle, send your happy snap to editor@y-oman.com or post on Y’s Facebook page and hashtag it with #happysunmoments or our Instagram account – don’t forget to follow the account @ymagazine and tag your photos #ymagazine. Entries must be in by Monday, October 13 (late entries won’t be accepted). Don’t forget to include your name and contact details.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

035

GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE GET YOUR FREE COPY OF Y AT THE FOLLOWING DISTRIBUTION POINTS… Yiti • Sifawy Boutique Hotel Qantab • Al Bustan Palace Hotel • Marina Bander AL Rowdha • Oman Dive Club • Shangri La - Barr Al Jissah Wadi Kabir • Al Maya Hypermarket • Khimji Mart • Lulu Hypermarket • National Hospitality Institute • Shell MBD • Bank Dhofar • Moore Stephens • NBO • Oman Oil Ahlain • Pizza Hut • Pizza Muscat • Shell CBD • Al Maya Hypermarket • Alizz Islamic Bank • Bahwan Travel Agencies • Bank Sohar • Centre pointSplash • Copper Chimney • Costa Coffee • HSBC • Lama Polyclinic • NBO • Oman Arab Bank • Standard Chartered Bank • Woodlands Restaurant Muscat • Muscat • Bait al Baranda • Bait al Zubair • Diwan • Shell Darsait • Cave Restaurant • Indian Social Club • Khimji Mart • KIMS Hospital • Lulu Hypermarket • Muscat Bakery • Shell AL Falaj/Rex Road • Al Falaj Hotel • Badar Al Sama • Golden Oryx Restaurant • Kamat Restaurant

•

Toshiba Showroom RUWI • Kamat Restaurant • KFC • Khimji’s Watches - Showroom • KM Trading • Oman Air • Oman UAE Exchange • OTE • Sarwana Bhawan • Swaroski Hamriya • Apollo Medical Centre Wattayah • Ahli Bank • Best cars • BLS • Ford • GM (Chevrolet) • Hatat House • Honda • Hyundai • Kia • Lexus • National Travel & Tourism • Passage to India • SABCO Group • Shell • Subaru • Suzuki • Toyota Qurum • Al Araimi Complex • Balance Gym • Bank Nizwa • BMW showroom • Burger King • Capital Store • Chili’s • Crowne Plaza • Finland Eye Center • Fun Zone • Gloria Jean’s Coffee • Jungle Restaurant • Left Bank • McDonald’s • Mercedes Benz • Mumtaz Mahal • Nandoos • Nissan • Oman Oil Ahlain • Pizza Hut • Qurum Commercial Complex (Old CCC) • SABCO Centre • Second Cup • Starbucks • Tché Tché coffee

shop The Sultan centre (TSC) PDO • PDO • Oman Oil Head Office • PDO • Ras Al Hamra Club Royal Opera House • Indus Restaurant • More Café Shatti Al Qurum • Bareeq Al Shatti Complex • Carribou Coffee • Darcy’s Kitchen • German Eye Laser Center • Intercontinental Hotel • Jawaharat Al Shatti Complex • Kaya Skin Clinic • Muscat Eye Laser Center • Oasis By The Sea • Second Cup • Starbucks Sarooj • Al Fair S/M • Al Masa Mall • Al Shatti Cinema (Dunkin Donuts) • Ayana Spa • Cosmeclinic • Emirates Medical Center • McDonald’s • Shell MQ • Al Fair S/M • Arab Open University • British Council • Costa Coffee • Darcy’s Kitchen • Emirates Airlines • Hana Slimming Centre • Kargeen Café • KFC • Mackenzies • Mood Café • Oman Oil Ahlain • Papa John’s • Pizza Hut • Saharz Beauty Saloon • Starbucks • TBWA Zeenah Al Khuwair • Badar Al Sama • Bait Al Reem • Bait Al Reem - Coffee Shop • Café Vergnano •

•

Centre pointSplash • Diplomatic Club • Friendi Mobile • Grand Hyatt Muscat • Grand Hyatt Muscat (Saloon) • Gulf College • Harley Davidson • HSBC (Old OIB) • KFC • Khimji Mart • Khimji’s Watches - Showroom • KM Trading • Landmark Group • McDonald’s • Ministry of Information • Muscat Bakery • Mustafa Sultan Enterprises • Oman Bowling Center • Oman Oil Ahlain • Oman United Insurance • OMRAN • Pizza Hut • Radison Blu • Shell • TGI fridays • The Kebab Factory • The Tikka Place • VLCC • Zahara Travel • Zakher Shopping Mall MGM • Carribou Coffee • Gloria Jean’s Coffee • Nawras • Paul Patisserie • Tim Hortons Bousher • College for Banking & Financial Studies • Costa Coffee • Crepe Café • Dolphin Village • Modern College Of Business Studies • Moka & More Café • Muscat College • Muscat Private Hospital - Emergency • Muscat Private Hospital - Outpatient • Oman Medical

College • Stationery Hut Ghubra • Al Hayat Polyclinic • Al Maya Hypermarket • Aster Hospital • Bank of Beirut • GMC • Lulu Hypermarket • Oman Oil Ahlain • Park Inn • Porsche • The Chedi Ghala • National Mineral Water • TAISM Azaiba • Al Fair S/M • Al Maha • Al Meera H/M • Audi • Bentely • Brand Oman • Carribou Coffee • Costa Coffee • Golden Tulip • Infinity Service Station • Jaguar • Jeep • Land Rover • Mazda • McDonald’s • Mitsubishi • Oman Arab Bank • Oman Oil Ahlain • Peugeot • Seven Seas Complex • Shell • Skoda • The Sultan centre (TSC) • Towell • Volks Wagon • Volvo • Yamaha • Zubair Automotive (Sayarati) Al Murtafaa • Bank Muscat • DHL • KFC • Muscat Hills Golf Club • Oman Air Mawaleh • Chili’s • Costa Coffee • Makkan Café • Noodle House • Starbucks • Starcare Hospital • Tim Hortons

• VLCC Hail • Al Mouj Golf Club • Amouage - Oman Perfumery LLC • Bait al Hail • Burger King • Caledonian College • Costa Coffee • Markaz Al Bahja • McDonald’s • Oman Football Association • Oman Sail • Shakespere & Co. • The Wave H.O. Rusayl • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -1 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -2 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -3 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -4 (ITA) • Middle East College • Omantel • SQU - Diplomatic Club • SQU - College of Commerce • SQU - Students Banking Area • SQU -Hospital • Waljat College Seeb • McDonald’s • SABCO Media Al Khoud • Badar Al Sama • Al Fair S/M • Pizza Hut Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • Lulu Hypermarket Sawadi • Sawadi Beach Resort Massnaah • Millennium Hotel Sohar • Centre pointSplash • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Market • Nawras • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port • Sohar University Nizwa • Nizwa University

TOO LATE? DON’T WORRY. GET Y INSTANTLY ONLINE USING YOUR MOBILE DEVICES & PC

Visit www.y-oman.com/current-issue/ No downloading required

@ytabloid

Postcards from

Outdoors

Y- F i

Cars

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Deep blue sea

Freedivers use relaxation breathing techniques to hold their breath for astounding lengths of time.

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

037

CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D estination P o s t c a r d s f r o m

Y- F i

Outdoors

Destination

BAHLA This week, we go back in time to June 2010 to take in the historic walls of Bahla and its ancient fort 038

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Cars

ver recent weeks, we’ve been blowing the dust off former Y photographer Jerzy Wierzbicki’s camera lens and leafing through some of his most beautiful trips. Here, we have a look at his take on Bahla, a Unesco World Heritage Site and Oman’s oldest fort. Here’s what Jerzy had to say about it: “Time for a bit of real history now, so where better to go to than Bahla, an area touched by the ghosts of the past. It is home to one of the oldest fortresses in the Sultanate, a huge dominating complex of sandstone that looks over the city. “The fortress is so vast that its walls stretch across 12 kilometres, a hugely impressive feat of engineering considering the time; it’s hard

to believe that the city was built sometime in the 13th century. “The fortress is also within close proximity of other historic sites such as Nizwa, so a trip, if planned well, could see you stop off at other neighbouring places of interest on a day visit. “Mentally fitting together the jigsaw of history is fascinating. “The chance of a ramble through the outlying areas of Bahla also provides a good chance for snaps of the fortress from afar and with Jebel Akhdar in close proximity, you will also be able to test your hiking skills. “The city is also famed for its pottery, so a trip out to the city is worth it alone for the stunning ceramics available to purchase from expert craftsmen across the city.”

travel guide

HOW TO GET THERE

From Burj al Sahwa, take the road to Nizwa, via Bidbid. From Nizwa, follow the road to Ibri, pass the town and then head directly to Bahla.

TRY IT NOW

SWEET MACARONS TASTE & DISCOVER THE DIFFERENT KIND OF SWEETNESS

AVAILABLE AT ALL OF OUR BRANCHES

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

039

CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

T Push your body’s boundaries in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and experience the thrill that comes as standard with freediving, says Matt Blackwell

040

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

ake a deep breath and imagine, if you can, a state of complete calm. Beneath the waves, silence surrounds you with a comforting embrace and the complications, worries and fears of dry land seem further away with each metre you descend into the bluish-green depths. Leaving all life-support systems behind forces the mammalian dive reflex into action, giving you a heightened sense of awareness as your body enhances conservation of its oxygen supplies and you become somewhat akin to the inquisitive fish circling you. This is just a small taste of what it is like to freedive. Growing up in Quriyat, about 100 kilometres southeast of Muscat, Yahya al Hooti has always been surrounded by water. What began as children at play, snorkelling for cuttlefish and lobster, has, over the years, developed into a love affair that led to Yahya taking freediving courses in Thailand, Turkey and Egypt before returning to set up Freediving Oman, the Sultanate’s first freediving centre registered with Scuba Schools International (SSI), earlier this year. Freediving is rapidly rising in popularity and competitive events are held around the world. The professionals can hold their breath for astounding lengths of time, in the region of 10 minutes for some, which allows them to reach the dizzying depths of 200 metres or more using a single breath. These are trained professionals, of course, although to the uninitiated such as myself, there is something about these times and depths that seems to defy the laws of nature. It’s as if Yahya can read my mind – or perhaps it’s the look of incredulous wonder on my face that is the true giveaway – and the instructor, whose personal record is a depth of 42m, laughs. “This sport is 90 per cent psychological and 10 per cent actual physics. “We drop the heart rate through relaxation breathing from the stomach because when you relax your brain, you lower your consumption of oxygen. It’s not impossible and it’s not magic. It’s similar to meditation and it’s easy.” Sceptics out there may question the effectiveness of such techniques, but the proof is very much in the pudding, with Yahya relating the story of one of his recent students who signed up for the Freediving Level 1 course having never attempted to hold his breath in his life. After being taught the correct techniques, he was able to hold a single breath for more than

Postcards from

Y- F i

C a r s OUTDOORS

three-and-a-half minutes, surprising even himself. As a child, I was somewhat of a water baby and consequently found myself on the receiving end of several lectures from lifeguards at public swimming pools, who would frequently warn me of the dangers of holding my breath for too long. Freediving is a sport in which you push your body to the very limits of its capabilities and, obviously, there are inherent risks that come with this. However, as Yahya assures me, it is a very safe sport. “It’s like driving a car,” he says. “If you break the rules, you will have accidents, but if you follow them you will be fine. “It depends how smart the diver is. Your brain sends alarms when the CO2 level in your bloodstream increases and oxygen is low. If the diver is smart, they will say enough is enough and return to the surface to perform recovery breathing techniques.” When competitive freediving first emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, it was believed that athletes required an enormous lung capacity and popular techniques included hyperventilation, which switches off certain sensors in your brain and can lead to sudden blackouts. The number of accidents during this time was significantly higher than today and since the widespread adoption of relaxation breathing techniques in recent years, the safety record of the sport has become enviable. Yahya is incredibly animated as he talks about something that is clearly his passion, gesticulating enthusiastically as he demonstrates breathing techniques. He tells me each student who comes to him to learn freediving does so for a different reason. Some may want to go spearfishing or capture great underwater images, while others simply want to learn about themselves and find out what their bodies are capable of. “As an instructor, this is something I always check when I meet people. I want to know who I’m dealing with and so I sit with them to find out why they want to freedive.” As our afternoon together comes to a close, it only seems fitting to turn the tables on the freediving instructor and ask him the same question he asks his students. “It’s like an addiction,” he says, “there comes a point when if you’re not in the sea then you feel like something is wrong. When I’m stressed or in a bad mood, I jump into the sea, hold my breath and go. “Sometimes we get fed up being humans, so we try to be fish.”

Freediving Oman offers SSI-licensed Level 1 and Level 2 freediving courses (RO140 and RO160 respectively), a foundation course for snorkelling (RO120), as well as open-water training sessions for qualified freedivers (RO15) To find out the dates of the next courses, email Yahya at yahhoot@yahoo.com or give him a call on +968 9981 0004 For more information go to or Freedivingoman

/FreedivingOman

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

041

CARS AND ADVENTURES Island Paradise

Beautiful resort hotels dot the coast of Mauritius and will often happily cater for all your needs.

Top five things to do: 1. Buy souvenirs at the Port Louis and Grand Baie markets 2. Indulge in a catamaran cruise from Grand Baie 3. Visit Pamplemousses Botanical Garden 4. Take a snorkelling trip 5. Treat yourself to a sunset mocktail at one of many beachfront restaurants

042

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

Destination

Outdoors

Y-Fi

Cars

postcards from

Kathy Whitehead recommends

Mauritius H

ow often have you heard the saying, “As dead as a dodo”? Several times, I am sure, but did you know it was this idiom that put the tiny Indian Ocean island of Mauritius firmly on the global map? A l l c r e d i t g o e s t o t h i s f l i g h t l e s s b i r d t h a t h a s b e e n e x t i n c t fo r more than 300 years as in its heyday it was indigenous only to this tropical paradise. Dodos and their archaeological remains are not, however, the drawcard to this island - instead, it’s the pristine white beaches, turquoise waters and swaying palms that bring visitors back year after year. With a surface area of only 2,040 square kilometres, t h i s t r o p i c a l i s l a n d h a s a s t r o n g c u l t u r e o f Fr e n c h a n d C r e o l e r u n n i n g t h r o u g h i t s v e i n s a n d o ff e r s v i s i t o r s a b l e n d o f c u l t u r e unparalleled in other tropical destinations. P o r t L o u i s i s t h e c a p i t a l a n d w a s fo u n d e d b y t h e Fr e n c h g o v e r n o r a n d c o l o n i s t B e r t r a n d - Fr a n ç o i s M a h é d e L a B o u r d o n n a i s i n 1 7 3 5 . W i t h a G D P h e a v i l y r e l i a n t o n t o u r i s m , M a u r i t i u s o ff e r s f a b u l o u s resort hotels all along its coast. The north is more built up than the south and acts as a magnet to holidaymakers thanks to good restaurants, great markets and a host of water-related activities.

C atama ran c in cl u d r e a fish u is e s oft e n ba r b e que

My favourite place

North of Port Louis lies the town of Grand Baie, the island’s centre for sailing activities. It is here where visitors can join a yacht or catamaran cruise, charter a private launch, go deep-sea fishing or organise a snorkelling or dive tour. Grand Baie also offers great shopping opportunities – be it in boutiques or at the market. Restaurants, cafés and nightclubs abound, so there is always plenty to do. Close by is the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden – otherwise known as the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. Not only is it the oldest botanical garden in the southern hemisphere, but it’s also well known for its long pond of giant water lilies. Not too far from here is Chez Tante Athalie – a delightful Creole restaurant that is hidden away among the sugar cane fields near Pamplemousses. This open-air restaurant also houses a permanent exhibition of vintage cars, many of which are in perfect condition.

gu ests wait to ta ke Sh uttl e boats n ra ng catama ou t to a waiti

Highlights Mauritians take so much pride in who they are, of their island and of their Creole heritage and in turn make every visitor feel extremely welcome. From hotel staff through to taxi drivers and shop assistants, no requests are too much and these friendly folk will frequently go out of their way to help you. Lowlights

Being a tiny island in the vast Indian Ocean, the weather can be unpredictable, so try to take this into account when planning a trip. Remember that cyclone season is between December and April. The most pleasant time to visit is between April and June, especially as the temperatures are quite moderate.

Souvenirs Market shopping is all about bargaining and you are expected to negotiate the asking price down. It can be a bit daunting at first, but as you get used to it, it actually becomes fun. Markets sell everything from colourful basket ware, to fresh green chillies, jewellery, nautical ornaments and cool beach-style clothing. Where to stay

I have had the privilege of having stayed at a number of hotels in Mauritius – from three-star through to five-star and two things they all have in common are friendly staff and clean and comfortable accommodation. Perhaps the two hotels that really stand out are the Maritim in Turtle Bay and The Residence on the west coast near Belle Mare. Each hotel offers exceptional spa facilities, good dining, a myriad of activities for its guests and long, sun-drenched beaches. Traditional Creole dance shows are often part of the evening entertainment at these hotels.

Fisher men cl fish at ean fr eshly the ha caught followi rbour in ng a s uccessf Grand Bai fishing e excur ul de ep-se sion a

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

043

-FI

Postcards from

Cars

Outdoors

Y-FI

MAD GADGETS

In the age of technology, patents are handed out left, right and centre. If an inventor can dream it, a designer will make it, leading to some weird and wonderful gadgets. Matthew Herbst checks out some of the more useful ones on offer

THE TECH IN YOU

POWER BRICK From building simple space ships to complicated sculptures and miniature villages, LEGO is a perennial favourite for all ages. A new concept has been brought to the table, which allows you to integrate LEGO blocks with your smartphone or tablet, while you play if you wish. The LEGO Power Brick 4200mAh from Brando is an external battery a little thicker and a little shorter than an iPhone. Both the USB and micro USB ports let you charge a variety of gadgets and the high output battery can even charge your laptop or iPad. From RO18.86 at www.shop.brando.com

Back to the future

THE BIG PICTURE The Mini DLP LED Projector for Mobile Phones is a cool new toy, projecting up to a distance of two meters – making it ideal for sharing movies with friends. This plug and play product can connect to several hardware devices via HDMI or USB and is compatible with most Android phones. The mini projector is small and very compact, while the resolution of 640x480 pixels allows for a clear and stable projection. From RO138.61 at www.amazon.com

GIVE ME A RING

EDITOR’S PICK 044

Despite the bad rap cassette tapes get when compared with the MP3s of today, this piece of kit is worth checking out. It looks just like an old-style cassette Walkman, but with a slot to slide in an iPhone or iPod Touch on one side. All you have to do is insert the cassette tape, dock the iPhone/ iPod touch, press play and the app, which comes included, will convert your old school music to MP3 format. Grab some headphones or connect the device to a stereo system and you can party like it’s 1995 – again. The Cassette to iPod Converter is available from RO30.80 at www.hammacher.com

Bluetooth earpieces are not the most flattering of gadgets to wear. Generally speaking, they’re easily damaged and even easier to lose. Wouldn’t it be great if there was an earpiece you didn’t have to spend so much time worrying about? Well, The O.R.B (orbital ring Bluetooth) Headset from Hybra Advance Technologies offers a great solution. It’s an innovative headset that transforms into a ring with a simple twist. This nifty little device can also be used up to 30 feet away from your phone and comes in four sizes. The outside of the ring displays caller ID information as well as voice-to-text, meaning you don’t even need to take it off your finger. When you receive a call or a meeting notification, the ring vibrates to alert you. From RO67.38 at www.hybratech.com

JULY0203- -0809/ /ISSUE OCT ISSUE339 327

FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS

App of the Week

EARTHCAM

DO-IT-YOURSELF Ever fancied building your own camera? If so, the Lomography Konstruktor DIY Camera Kit is for you. At first glance, the kit looks a mind-boggling amalgamation of mysterious bits of plastic, glue and stickers. What is appealing, though, is the chance to build your own retro 35mm camera from the ground up. All the required components come in the box – you just need to set aside some time to slap it all together. But don’t expect any fancy photographic trickery with the Lomography Konstruktor. The focus here is firmly on the construction part. Building your own camera may sound daunting, but the instructions are actually refreshingly clear. Once you’re done, load it up with film and start shooting. And if that doesn’t work, you can always take it apart to see exactly where you’ve gone wrong! Available at www.shop.lomography.com from RO13.47

Thanks to technology and the web, it’s now easier than ever before to enjoy the world’s most beautiful beaches, iconic bridges and skylines, waterfalls and much more with your virtual travel buddy, EarthCam. Because it streams live, not only do you see, you also hear the sounds of your favourite place as if you were standing right there. The perfect escape if stuck at home or in the office. Around 20 locations come free and you have the choice to add more of what you like with several packages. International cities, best beaches and wildlife cams, the choice is yours for RO0.43 each on iTunes and Google Play.

NEW - OpenAire laptop MESSENGER bag The OpenAire laptop bag brings new meaning to the term “working on the go”. The multi-purpose bag is both a messenger bag to carry your laptop and a personal desk, designed to sit comfortably on your lap. The innovations don’t stop there. The messenger bag also opens fully into a chair, protecting your clothing from sand and dirt. Once you’re done with work, simply fold it up, slip your messenger bag over your shoulder and off you go again. The bag is still in concept mode, but due for release in the near future. Check out the progress at www.behance.

net/gallery/Openaire-LaptopCaseWorkstation

JULY OCT 02 03 - 08 09 / ISSUE 339 327

045

CARS AND ADVENTURES

D e s t i n at i o n

Postcards from

Outdoors

Y- F i C ars

Mini Cooper S All4 Paceman Specifications: Engine: 1.6L twin-scroll turbo Horsepower: 184 Transmission: Six-speed automatic 0-100kmh in 7.8 seconds Top speed: 207kmh Price: RO17,000

car of the week Sporty, sassy and seriously stylish, the Mini Cooper Paceman offers fun and speed wrapped up in a dynamic, tiny bundle, says Kate Ginn

’ve never really been of the opinion that size matters. Others, of course, believe the larger the better when it comes to cars, hence the number of huge SUVs that can be found on the Sultanate’s roads. A small part of me did wonder how I would fare on the streets of Muscat in a Mini, the motoring icon and something of a shorty in the automotive department. Would I be swamped by a tide of 4x4s or would the little British guy hold his own? I needn’t have worried. My Mini was more than capable of keeping pace with the big boys. He’s a brash, confident little thing. At my age (don’t ask), I can remember the old-style Minis with soft-looking bodies and little wheels that scored high on the cute factor and reliability scale. My friend had an orange Mini from the 1980s, so this is my point of reference. Fast forward to 2014 and Mini number two is a very different proposition. The Cooper S Paceman is like another species altogether. It looks pumped up, like a Mini that has spent years in the gym. Gone are the soft lines, to be replaced with a beefy body, chunky wheels and a serious hardcore attitude. The Cooper S Paceman is not some shy, retiring little number afraid to get into life’s fast lane, or assert itself on the highways and byways. Instead, this plucky bruiser can’t wait to get out there and show the rest of the world what it has. 046

OCT 02 - 08 / ISSUE 339

As far as the Mini family goes, this is the sporty one. If you’re looking for something a bit more refined, you can always opt for the four-door Countryman, which offers all the fun of a Mini with slightly more restraint. As it happens, I rather like a bit of swagger so the Paceman suited me down to the ground. Mini likes to say that no two Minis are alike; such is the combination of body and roof paintworks that are available for customisation. Each one is a distinctive reflection of the owner. My Paceman was a lovely deep, rich blue with a shiny white roof. Twin glistening chrome exhausts poked out of the back and I loved the very chic black alloy wheels. My colleague, Adam, who came with me for the ride, declared that it didn’t look very “handsome”. I disagree. I thought it was an incredibly good-looking car and its visual appeal grew the longer that I spent with it. Some may prefer the convenience of a four-door and if you have a family, it would probably be a must. However, it was just the two of us for the test drive, so it wasn’t an issue. The interior is great fun. I liked the huge dial in the centre of the dashboard, which doubles up as a speedometer and the car’s infotainment system, though it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Whether you want to sync your smartphone, listen to music or need navigation, it’s all at your fingertips. The steering wheel is three-spoke leather with paddles and controls

for things like the stereo (which, incidentally, is superb quality) and telephone connectivity and the cloth/leather sport seats hug you in a tight but comforting embrace. Everything feels solid and well made, while retaining the retro feel of the Mini brand. For a small car, there’s plenty of legroom – even for my long pins – and headroom is good, too. A sunroof comes as standard on the Cooper S Paceman, giving you the option of that “wind in your hair” feeling as you zip along the highway. My only gripe was the air conditioning, which seemed a little tame to say the least. As for the drive, well, it might be small, but it packs quite a punch with the turbo kicking in and giving it some real thrust when needed. It’s like driving a go-kart with a rocket strapped to the back. Off we shot along Sultan Qaboos Highway, nipping in and out of traffic and generally having a great time. Switch to the Sport mode and it’s an even more entertaining drive, with tightened-up suspension and taut handling making the driver work for the fun. Despite its slight stature, I also felt incredibly safe in the Mini thanks to its solid build. It’s also a breeze to park in even the narrowest of spaces and is great for squeezing through tight spots or clogged roads. Which, I suppose, all goes to prove that good things do indeed come in small packages.

They say: “Engineered for enjoyment” We say: “Seriously super mini”

Sports leather steering wheel with gear shift pedals Rear spoiler Black headlights Electric glass roof Xenon lights Automatic air conditioning On-board computer Navigation system Harman/Kardon premium audio system Sport mode

Oman’s No. 1 Bank receives Global Recognition!

Your local bank with regional presence

The ‘Most Sustainable Bank’ & the ‘Best Commercial Bank’ Award, 2014! We would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to all of our shareholders and the Board of Directors for their support; our employees for their hard work and our customers for their on-going loyalty and trust. This recognition motivates us to further enhance our banking services to our clientele, and commit ourselves to excelling in our offerings to maintain our customers’ valuable trust. www.ahlibank.om