Y Magazine #348 December 11, 2014 by SABCO Press, Publishing and Advertising

JAN 9 – 15 • ISSUE 252 • WEEKLY

Life Saver

EMERGENCY FIRST RESPONSE He’s Behind You! PUTTING ON PANTO

10News: GCC DRIVING LICENCE HEALTH: Hitting the Wall SPORT: Oman’s Cricket Girls

YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

Free!

EVERY THURSDAY NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348 • WEEKLY

FINAL

Round

PLUS!

Is time about to be called on alcohol?

FESTIVE FEAST

NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

THE GLITTERATI

MINI MAGIC

IN THE SPOTLIGHT The festive cheer is spreading around the capital as stores go all out with decorations and hotels light up their Christmas trees. We even spotted Santa Claus at SABCO Centre in Qurum last week, which can only mean one thing: Christmas is literally just around the corner. Are you ready?

THE BAROMETER GOING UP

PASSENGER NUMBERS It is great to hear that the first phase of Muscat International Airport will open on December 14, which will see the airport capable of handling 12 million passengers a year – up from 8.3m this year.

GOING DOWN

COMPANY PROFITS A plan to double the price of gas to 41 baisa per cubic metre will cut into companies’ profits in 2015, with many firms pushing for the decision to be revoked by the Ministry of Oil and Gas.

THIS WEEK… Team Y had a great weekend at the Rugby Sevens in Dubai, is looking forward to our first Christmas lunch of the season and has been airing out the spare room for the annual influx of visitors escaping the cold and darkness of Europe.

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

here’s been talk of banning the sale of alcohol in the Sultanate for some time now – and it’s a divisive and culturally sensitive topic. On the one hand, there are serious – and legitimate – concerns regarding addiction, with the Government spending an average of RO45 million per year to treat alcohol-related diseases. But there is also the country’s burgeoning tourism industry to consider – and some hoteliers warn that western tourists will be put off if they can’t enjoy a sundowner at the end the day while on their vacation. Y’s cover story this week looks at both sides of the argument and finds it is a difficult dilemma to solve for a country that is opening up to tourism, but also wants to preserve its heritage and traditions. Meanwhile, we check out the PDO traditional pantomime (this year, it’s Jack and the Beanstalk), indulge our sweet tooth in Taste Test and continue our #Swim4Life campaign with a special CPR course. Have a wonderful week – and remember to stick to your festive budget!

editor@y-oman.com

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 CONTRIBUTORS Matt Blackwell Adam Hurrell Jerzy Wierzbicki INTERN Deeba Hasan 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

/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. DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

contents

DECEMBER 11 - 17 2014

06 Coffee With Deeba Maxine Burden 08 Voice Of Oman Al Sayyida Mayya Al Said 10 News GCC Driving Licence

20 Last Orders Will Alcohol Be Banned In Oman? 24 Red Bull Kart Fight On The Track With Matt

This week

Your Oman

Feature

16 Movie Listings Walking On Sunshine

26 #Swim4Life Emergency First Response

18 This Week Tunes With Hussain

Food and Drink

Cars and Adventures

28 Food Feature Festive Feasts

38 Destination Nizwa In Detail

30 Taste Test The Crêpe Café

40 Indoors Putting On Panto

Health and Beauty 32 Fashion Glitterati

42 Postcard From Tamariu, Spain 44 Y-Fi Xmas Gadgets

34 Health 46 Car Of The Week Hitting The Wall MINI Cooper S 5-Door

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE... MUSCAT YOUTH SUMMIT 2014 / RETRO GADGETS / WHITE OUT / WADI INDAM / DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER

, xine Burden nt a M h it w n her rece n sits dow Deeba Hasa tory of Muttrah souq in es r who tells th n the Ancho w o D w o r h mping trips, book T about my ca the book.”

t of this is my firs mething out is an get so ants and people who butere’s a good chance it en rd u B e in ax Th merch pat ops. They last either Australian ex rked at the sh se no one won’t be her e are still stories o w er ecau who has lived s were wary b d them about because th uq that Maxine year so n ke e ve as th se er r m fo ev o fr d an ad h in Om er. eir shops an many others, wants to gathuq,” Maxine the story of th now and, like ve with the so e .” th “I love the history onths, but has fallen in lo the old leyways of says. “I love hen we travel, It took 12 m sistence and labyrinthine alq, Oman’s W e. er p anywher Maxine’s Muttrah’s souaditional the old that paid off and weekly visits ts finally began it’s always e and the souq spectacular tr m an s interest ce the merch bazaar. her, sharing great ambien her visitors to open up to their products just has a ou can get in But unlike ot decided e about it. “Y ours around the stories of as a whole. to the souq, shing a little dh q u so e h et th and gh. and spen to do som e 65-yearresisted, thou hich there.” ill st h e T m t. o n S re diffe y, Maxine this store w souq every Unfortunateleople who “There was man for a old visited the o-and-a-half p has been in Oied talking to thinks thatcruises focus only Sunday for tw09, gathering tr I n o e. m ve 20 ti ri long leyway luck. ar years from stories , but had no ient, on the souq’s main al er n n w o ow e kn th n u the eing so much t and pat ’s ancient espite there b. d I was persisten ” t. from the souqto publish in u o n’t work else to exploresouq, Maxine passageways unched book. but it did she did es ri in the o st la e y tl th n Of me are While just how much it had her rece so w , ro ct th lle to co s n to t ea learn “‘Mutrah’ m n, hence the manageg. e years. anged over thance was ch amazin an m ld something dowk,” she says. o tr across an til “The main en title of the boolunteer at the “I came n’t know English, trance up une en e th vo id er a d ev o is n b h w to is d h se Maxine u gh u e thro mani Dress 1970 and therket at the car so we talked narrated the Centre for O was dreamed e H . k er oo th b a donkey marolice Station in bro offee] and the . [c ve a ri w d h g ka in is a f ra park of the P story o up as a fund r put down a e souq, th m o fr to r ec the souq.” ir lle se er is “Our d a friend of h hwa These and many othring that could be as w gs o in h th w of t ka ge r lis ld lin ou so r e ill fo st H s . e fund stories ar e souq, grandfather per cup done to raise researching baisa d e n an o around in th told to people r m fo u d se u m as one of 104 an w e q ag u e so th l ah ti waiting to be opefully in tr n ough the Mu ved u en lo s ve ay sa w to al ed ad out there – h t book. manag of them. I h ich is why I Salalah , ia d In t h si w , Maxine’s nex vi q to the sou h his last y. it it n w , tu n o or d p n op o and L leapt at the e didn’t really ation on T hrow the Hajj in For more informhor and to find big trip being Back then, w ould ever the Anc know if we wh a book,” says Mecca.” first came to Oman Down where you can buy it, go to e ts it in tle w t ou l ax ti ou M e un ress.com come and lived herthe .centreforomanid 2 w 9 w 9 w 1 e. in in ax as M oved to e Anchor w 1996. She m finally coming T hrow Down thlabour of re o g ef in b unique UAE in a longstand ine, who has Have you got a you the Sultanate do love for Max e fruits of her back to efore coming to the or ll te story to ho has? filled it with tharch, beautiful 2007. Baxine worked in the know someone wve coffee se M re lf, ve gu si g in is exten , an ew rg ha n o to old and rst Contact us travel industry photographs e nostalgic . This is the fiook. with Deeba and be featured rs u to m e so is u as l cr as wel Email: written a b the souq, time she has usly done in Y Magazine..com memories from e b o to vi d ve “I had pre tional writing editor@y-oman which is beliears old. some promo some writing about 600 ye few months, and also did “For the first ficult to if d it was very

JULY DEC 1103- 17- 09/ ISSUE / ISSUE348327

Maxine B

urden

THE VOICE OF OMAN AL SAYYIDA MAYYA AL SAID ON CHASING THE HAPPY DREAM

correspondence SAFETY FIRST Hi Y,

any of us are in constant pursuit of happiness. After all, who doesn’t want to be happy? However, many of us are looking in the wrong direction. We depend on people and things to make us happy, but in reality happiness comes from within, not from material possessions. This may sound strange to many because it’s a foreign concept to us, simply because we are always told that if you get this, or achieve that, you will be happy. Happiness isn’t just a single state of being though; it’s a state of mind. It is the ability to take what life has given you and personalise it in a way that benefits you. Positive thinking and introspection are two of the key ways to achieve this. You can be happy right now. Stop looking for excuses as to why you cannot be happy and you might be surprised to find just how many reasons as to why you can be. Remember, you hold the keys to your own happiness, so use them and enjoy the benefits of a happier you.

NEXT WEEK:

SHELINE CLARKE

As I drive around Muscat and the surrounding areas, I am more than a little surprised to see the lack of safety on building sites. Many workers lack adequate protection, in the form of helmets and shoes. Scaffolding is very makeshift and no harnesses are being worn when working at such dangerous heights. Safety is of paramount importance and the companies responsible should be reprimanded accordingly. Is there a body in Oman that oversees these issues of health and safety? I know of one site that declares they have had no accidents reported. This is not the case, however, even when one worker ended up in hospital nothing was written down. Many sites are not maintained properly and

DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

“Time travel is big in movies at the moment. If it was possible, where would you travel to and why” T NAGABHASKAR KUMAR

If possible, I would like to travel to both the past and future, so that I could see how the world was before and after the development.

SYED BOKHARI

In this fast and rapid moving world, everyone tries to get out the maximum in the minimum time.

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

electrics are a serious concern for workers and management alike. It is by no means every company who do not take the safety of their workers seriously, but more than enough to create the problem of lifethreatening accidents. Regards, Concerned resident

Because of this I would travel to the past, just to see how the world was before and also travel to the future. I would definitely prefer to see the future.

RAZMEENA JEMSHEER

I’d like to travel to the centuries that I didn’t see, so that I could see how the world was before.

SHERRIN FINOJ

I would like to travel through all the happy days of my life to cherish those moments once more, especially those days when I was my dad’s little girl. He made my days awesome and being a child is a beautiful phase of life with no worries or regrets. Often, we only realise this after we have grown up.

RONNEIL SALES VALIENTE

Because Christmas is near, if time travel was possible, I would certainly like to travel to the time when Jesus Christ was born in a manger in Bethlehem.

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. 08

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

SCAN THESE QR CODES &

I would like to travel at least one millennium into the future. Doing round trips to the future to gather new technology could be interesting. It’s a bit of a dice roll, but the potential is there to emerge in a world where lifespans have been dramatically increased and space travel is routine.

HENRY MATTHEWS

I would go back to the days when the great artists of the past were appreciated for their talents and they did not have to adhere to commercial restraints.

GEORGE FLOOD ‬

WWW.Y-OMAN.COM

/YTABLOID

RIKESH PATEL‬‪

New Debate:

‪RAJ SHENOY‬‪ ‬

“This issue we look at the potential effects of a ban on the sale of alcohol in public places. Do you think it should be implemented or not?”

If time travel were possible I would go back to the very beginning of the universe, just to see how it started all that time ago. I would time travel 200 years into the future to see how the earth would be without trees, plants, petrol and drinking water. I would use my camera to take a picture of this terrifying near future to publish in Y Magazine so that people realise the urgency and importance of conserving natural resources.

@YTABLOID

/YMAGAZINE

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

FATMA, BISSAN AND HAJER were spotted with their favourite Y Magazine at The Woman & Child Expo 2014

I would like to travel into the future and see all the technology they have. Hopefully there will be a device that can record all the great ideas you have and transmit them straight to the computer.

CATELYN GRAHAM‪ ‬

I would like to go to the Tudor times in the UK to meet King Henry VIII so that I could ask him why he had so many wives and whether I could be number seven.

RICHARD DANGERFIELD‬

I would like to be one of the pioneers in the American west. To know that you are one of the first people ever to blaze those trails would be an amazing feeling.

ALICE CASS‬‪ ‬‬

I would choose to go forward to a time when humanity has completely mastered space travel. It would be amazing to investigate some other planets and maybe even meet new life forms.

PIYUSH VORA‬

If I could time travel I would go back to historical points in time. I would be a bystander and see the Pyramids in their time. I would also go back to when Dinosaurs were here, just to see how our world was.

‬‬‪ ‬ ‬

KHALFAN AL BALUSHI

I would go forward to when all the transport improvements have been made to Muscat so we can all travel around the city easily.

STUART WIGHT‬‬‪ ‬ ‬

I would go back in time to meet Henry Fox Talbot the inventor of photography and to meet Frederick H Evans, one of my favourite photographers.

THIS IS YOUR PAGE!

Just send us your picture with the free Y magazine or pose with our photographer and we will publish it on this page

Send it to: info@y-oman.com

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

NEWS

YOUR

OMAN FULL SPEED TO GCC DRIVING LICENCE

not need to apply for a new one, the ROP said in a circular issued this week. What isn’t clear, however, is how the new licence would impact driving in the Gulf and whether drivers could use it when moving to another GCC country without the need to apply for a new one. It is believed the step may be a bid to clamp down on fake driving licences, reportedly a common problem in GCC countries. Common driving licences could signal a shift towards the unification of the GCC. A GCC visa has been mooted for some years and a GCC identification card is also a possibility.

unified driving licence for the GCC will be issued from the start of next year, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has announced, following an agreement by the six GCC member states. New drivers will be given the licence from January 1, 2015, which will look much the same, only with the addition of a GCC logo. A sample of the new licence has been approved by the ROP. Those already with a licence do

POPULATION GROWTH

he Sultanate’s population continues to grow, this time touching the 4,089,076 mark, according to figures released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) based on research as of December 3, 2014. According to the study, Omanis comprise of 56.1 per cent, while expats make up 43.9 per cent of the total population. The study found that the 0.5 per cent increase in population from last month constituted an increase of 0.3 per cent in the number of Omani citizens and a 0.2 per cent rise in expats. This is

010

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

primarily due to the increase in the number of construction and maintenance companies hiring expat labourers. In April this year, Oman’s population had nearly doubled when compared with 10 years ago, the report said. Although it is evident that the expat population is scattered across different regions of Oman, Muscat has the highest number of expats – a whopping 1,240, 853. In 1970, there were only 654,000 inhabitants in Oman, meaning that the current figures represent a rise of more than 500 per cent.

NEWS

OIL SPILL A

TASTE THE

ESSENCE AtMillennium Resort Mussanah

clean-up operation has begun to remove oil contamination on beaches stretching along the coast from Seeb to Sifah. Sightings of clumps of crude oil were first reported over the weekend on beaches stretching from The Wave, Muscat, down to Qurum and beyond. A warning not to swim in the affected areas for health reasons was issued by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA). A team from Muscat Municipality was drafted in this week to start cleaning up the beaches and collect samples of the apparent oil leaks for investigation. PDO has conducted its own probe and confirmed that the oil deposits were not brought about as a result of their operations. “PDO has surveyed its facilities and confirmed that it is not related to our tankering operations at Mina al Fahal,” said Mohamed al Salmani, the PDO’s corporate health, safety and environment manager. “The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs is aware of the problem and have been surveying the sea and coastline since the end of last week. They have, however, not been able as yet to identify the source. PDO is providing support to MECA to deal with the problem.”

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING & CAROL SINGING, 18TH DECEMBER CHRISTMAS EVE, 24TH DECEMBER The celebrations are unique at this charming venue. Delight in a buffet dinner for only OMR 35 net - including a welcome glass of spiced mulled beverage or fresh juice and free flow soft drinks.

SHISHA UP IN SMOKE

CHRISTMAS DAY, 25TH DECEMBER The wonderful atmosphere continues enjoy our delicious traditional Christmas Buffet with all special treats of the season for only OMR 35 net, with a welcome glass of spiced mulled beverage or fresh juice and free flow soft drinks.

CHRISTMAS ROOM SPECIAL OMR 140 net

Enjoy a night’s stay in our deluxe room, free upgrade to sea view room (subject to availability) for two persons inclusive of choice of either Christmas Eve Dinner, or Christmas Day Brunch and buffet breakfast.

RING IN THE NEW YEAR 2015 NEW YEAR’S EVE, 31ST DECEMBER SIMPLY RETRO AT INDOOR POOL

Ring in the New Year with an exciting Retro Themed Night. Enjoy a lively BBQ Dinner with free flow soft beverages for only OMR 35 net per person or OMR 45 net for BBQ dinner with five selected house beverages. Retro Party Entry after 10pm, inclusive of two soft drinks or house beverages for only OMR 25 net per person. MYDAN RESTAURANT

The celebrations are unique at this charming venue. Delight in a buffet dinner for only OMR 24 net per person or our A la carte Menu also available.

he future of shisha cafés is hanging in the balance after members of the Majlis Al Shura voted for a ban on health grounds this week. They want to stop licences being issued to new shisha cafés. Existing cafés with a licence will be allowed to continue for a short time to “settle down” it was reported. A majority of the Majlis Al Shura members voted for a complete ban rather than going for a less stringent option, which only called for stricter rules and fees at shisha cafés. The decision followed a detailed study by the Majlis in Oman looking at the health implications. There have also been complaints in the past about shisha cafés being sited too close to residential areas. It is now up to the Council of Ministers to decide whether to approve the recommendations or not.

NEW YEAR ROOM SPECIAL OMR 160 net

Enjoy a night’s stay in our deluxe room, free upgrade to sea view room (subject to availability) for two persons inclusive of entry to the Retro Party, BBQ dinner with five selected house beverages for two persons. *Above offers are in Omani Rials, inclusive of tax & service charges. Half price for children 5 to 12 years old. Terms and conditions apply. For further information or to book, please contact our team on: 26871518 or 95364900 or email sales.mrmo@millenniumhotels.com MRMMUSSANAH www.millenniumhotels.com A Member of Millennium Hotels and Resorts

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

011

YOUR

OMAN Bite Sized OUR WEEKLY SLOT TAKES A LIGHTHEARTED LOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE OF THE WEEK.

RIO 2016 OLYMPIC MASCOTS

The mascots for the 2016 Rio Olympics and Paralympics have been released. Why does it matter? You should care because there is a great deal of history and legend attached to the tradition of the Olympic mascot. People still remember with affection the mascots of old, such as Misha the bear cub of the Moscow 1980 Olympics and the unofficial wombat of the Sydney 2000 Olympics, who became more popular than the official mascots, Olly the kookaburra, Syd the platypus and an echidna (spiny anteater) named Millie. What is so special about the ones for Rio 2016? In the past, mascots have often been a single animal or, more recently, computer-generated characters. What is interesting about the Rio 2016 mascots is that they are combination of the two. You’ll have to explain… The mascots are based on different animals that are found in Brazil that have then been blended via computer graphics and animation. According to the Brazilian Olympic mascot website, they were “born out of explosions of joy”. Does the mascot do anything special? Of course! As well as acting as a point of national unity and inspiration, the hybrid animal is apparently able to stretch and stretch. Perhaps the Brazilian government could learn a thing or two about finances from it… And what do we need to know about the Paralympic mascot? Well, carrying on the blending theme, he is created from all the plants in the rainforest. Do we need to know anything else about them? Their names haven’t been chosen yet, but you can take part in the process by logging onto www.rio2016.com/ mascots/#!olympic-mascot and casting your vote. Don’t say: The mascots are trying to pull the wool over our eyes. Do say: The colourful and mixed make-up of the mascots represents the varied and exciting nature of the Olympics.

012

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

Gallery

Interview

NEWS

HOWZAT! GIRLS ON THE STUMP

rmed with bats and a ball, a team of young women will be setting out to prove they can beat the men at their own game of cricket. Oman has announced a 14-member team for the inaugural GCC Women’s T20 Cricket Championship being held in the Sultanate this month. While cricket is already hugely popular among the male expatriate population, women have some way to go to catch up. However, this tournament might go some way to changing that. If all goes well, it could change the future of women’s cricket not just in Oman, but around the Gulf region. “It’s a very big tournament,” said Vaishali Jesrani, the Oman team manger. “Being the inaugural women’s tournament of the Gulf region, it has an added significance in

A WEEK IN PICTURES

many aspects. It will contribute to the development of women’s cricket. So its success is vital for everyone.” In preparation, the girls have been playing against male teams to harden themselves up. Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are also sending teams for the first event of its kind to be organised in the region. Matches for the preliminary round will be played on December 15-18, with the champions decided on the Friday (December 19). Hoping to lead the Oman squad to victory will be captain Sunayna Devaiah. “We want to give our best in the tournament,” she said. “What else can be better preparation than playing against the best and tough boys teams?” Agility and speed is key to winning. Tasked with bringing the best out of the players is coach Sajith Kumar and his assistant Desmond Berhardt. “We have a good blend of batswomen and bowlers. We also have five to six good all-rounders,” said the coach. All the matches will be played at Oman Cricket’s grass pitch at the Ministry of Sports Affairs complex in Amerat.

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

British businessman Shrien Dewani walks free from court in South Africa after being cleared of the so-called “honeymoon murder” of his new bride after a judge rules there is insufficient evidence to convict him.

Twenty-seven people died, power lines were knocked out and homes flattened as Tropical Storm Hagupit swept towards the Philippine capital of Manila.

The US and Nato closed their combat command in Afghanistan, more than 13 years after invading the country in the wake of the September 11 terror attacks.

China is developing a huge rocket that will be used for its first manned mission to the moon. Long-March-9 will launch around 2028.

GALLERY

YOUR

OMAN

WOMAN & CHILD EXPO 2014

FOOTBALL MAD

014

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

THE SIXTH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN, HELD AT THE OMAN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE, WAS OPENED BY HE DR MUNA BINT SALIM AL JARDANIA AND SAYYID AYMEN BIN HAMED BIN HAMOUD AL BUSAIDI, VICE CHAIRMAN, SABCO GROUP ON DECEMBER 9 AND WILL RUN UNTIL TODAY (DECEMBER 11)

ROYAL FLIGHT OMAN WERE THE WINNERS OF THE INAUGURAL C-WATCH AVIATION CUP, FIGHTING OFF COMPETITION FROM EIGHT TEAMS IN THE SEVEN-A-SIDE TOURNAMENT HELD FOR AVIATION SECTORS AND AIRLINES AT THE OMAN FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION FIELD

2014

SNAP FOR MORE DETAILS

MAKE IT HAPPEN MORE THAN HALF A MILLION RIALS THIS YEAR-END

Grand Prize RO 500,000 Exclusive Prize

RO 50,000

Children’s Prize

RO 5,000

Save with Al Mumayaz for a rewarding future.

24730000 excel.banksohar @Banksohar_Excel banksoharexcel www.banksohar.net

•Valid until 31st December 2014 •Accounts in AED are eligible to participate •Non-participants in the Draw can avail 1% interest bearing account annually •Terms and conditions apply

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 247 91641

The Seasoning House

Walking on Sunshine If you like karaoke, then you’re in for a treat with this bubblegum pop, fun in the sun, feel-good flick. Everyone else need not enter the cinema. Maddie (Annabel Scholey) is organising her wedding to Raf (Giulio Berruti) in a beautiful Italian coastal town, but is completely unaware that her husband-to-be was the holiday love interest of her sister Taylor (Hannah Arterton) three years prior. When Taylor and Raf decide to keep their past secret from Maddie, the whole thing screams showdown at the altar. And that’s the problem with this film – it’s all a bit too predictable. Set to toe-tappingly catchy 80s hits, Walking

on Sunshine will have you humming along under your breath, but you can see each number coming a mile off. The singing is for the most part awful, apart from fleeting glimpses of British X Factor winner Leona Lewis, who is confined to a supporting role. As a concept, it plays out like a hybrid between Mamma Mia! and Rock of Ages, but doesn’t quite manage the scale – or budget – of either. Nevertheless, the cast goes about their business with huge smiles on their faces, even if they are a bit forced. Review by Matt Blackwell

P RE VI EW

ESCOBAR: PARADISE LOST After meeting the woman of his dreams while visiting his brother in Colombia, Nick Brady (Josh Hutcherson) is then introduced to her drug-lord uncle, Pablo Escobar (Benicio Del Toro). Pulled into the murky world of the family business, Nick struggles with facing the consequences of the actions he is forced to take.

WIN O T E C N A H C GRAB YOUR MA TICKETS E N I C Y T I C TWO

Following the slaughter of her mother by a Balkan militia in 1996, the deaf mute Angel (Rosie Day) is forced into the service of the inhuman Viktor (Kevin Howarth), who runs the local brothel. After watching

In a refreshing twist on festive frolics, Get Santa ships the jovial giver of presents off to jail. With the magical sleigh crashed in the woods, reindeer being cared for at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and Santa (Jim Broadbent) doing time, it falls to Tom (Kit Connor) and his ex-con father (Rafe Spall) to get Christmas back on track. Harmless fun for big kids and little kids alike and great for getting in the seasonal spirit.

MONTANA

Set on the mean streets of London’s East End, Montana is the story of a 14-year-old boy (McKell David) who teams up with former Serbian commando Dimitrij (Lars Mikkelsen) after the old man realises they share a bloody purpose. After teaching his young protégé the art of assassination, they both head out to bring down the crime lord who killed members of their respective families. Think The Karate Kid meets Léon.

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.

Contact: Movie enquiries 24607360

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

Get Santa

Y’s Choice

Tickets must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions, see voucher.

016

one of her new friends die at the hands of the same group responsible for her mother’s death, Angel sets out for vengeance. A twisted revenge thriller that is all the more unsettling for its focus on the horror that humanity is capable of as opposed to fantastical aliens or ghosts.

Brought to you by

THIS WEEKS QUESTION Where are Santa's reindeer staying while he's in prison? LAST WEEK'S WINNER Padmaadevi Krishnamoorthy

extra Shell Super, designed for

kilometres

AT NO EXTRA COST

At Shell, our scientists are using smarter and smarter ways to create quality fuels that are designed to deliver better fuel economy. The smart choice for you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shell Super, the only petrol in Oman with a special additive formula designed for extra kilometres at no extra cost. www.shelloman.com.om

* Comparison between a standard fuel and that same standard fuel containing our fuel economy formula. Actual benefits may vary according to vehicle, driving conditions and driving style.

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE until

11 Dec

Tunes with Hussain

Dec

WOMEN AND CHILDREN FIRST It’s the final day of the Woman & Child Expo 2014 and your last opportunity to catch all the action at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. Featuring health and beauty, bridal and wedding, fashion and lifestyle, jewellery and accessories, mother and baby, and home and kitchen. It is the biggest show in Oman for women and children. There’s also educational activities for the little ones. For more information call 2466 0124 or go to womenexpo-oman.com

WEEK

WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

D E C E M B E R

018

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

Dec 13

Get into the saddle with friends and family and join the Muscat Track Cycling Club’s fun event at the Oman Automobile Association Karting Track. All ages and abilities are welcome. You can ride as little or as much – up to three hours – as you want in either recreation or competitive cycling. Bring your own bike and helmet or rent – adults and kids bikes and helmets available on the day for RO3 per hour. Trained mechanics will be on hand for bike checks and track marshalls for safety. Entry is RO3 for adults and RO2 for under 18s. From 9am until midday. For further details and directions email muscattrackcycling@yahoo.com, search Muscat Track Cycling on Facebook and follow @muscattrakcycle on Twitter.

If you hurry, there might still be time to grab a ticket for Emirati singer Hussain al Jassmi’s debut appearance at the Royal Opera House Muscat. The famous singer, a master of classical Khaliji songs as well as modern up-tempo ones, rose to fame 15 years ago. Since then, he’s released many albums, winning fans all over the Arab world. Tickets for the one-off show start from just RO8. Curtain up at 7.30pm, for booking and further details go to www.rohmuscat.org.om

HOT WHEELS

THIS

until

11 Dec

CHOC TREAT If you love chocolate and want to see a serious master of confectionary at work, then head to the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel to see top pastry chef Anil Rohira from the Felchlin Company, Switzerland. Chef Anil will be demonstrating some of his seriously choccy creations in the hotel lobby Sirj Tea Lounge during the afternoon. Diners at the Tuscany restaurant will be able to indulge in exclusive Felchlin desserts during the promotion. For details, contact 2464 1234 or Facebook. com/GrandHyattMuscat

BAG A BOOK

OPEN

NOW

Oman’s first charity bookshop is now open for all bookworms. The Let’s Read Bookshop stocks a huge selection of books for adults and children in English and Arabic at rock bottom prices. We’re talking RO1 for paperbacks and RO2 for hardbacks. There’s also ecofriendly bags, T-shirts, calendars and bookmarks. All proceeds of sales go towards Maktabati, Oman’s first mobile library. The bookshop can be found at shop 116, first floor of the Al Qurum Complex (CCC). Opening times are 10am-1pm and 5pm-7pm Saturday to Thursday. Book donations are always needed. For more information, contact letsreadoman@gmail.com or call +968 99314230

Get Festive in the Dunes

Dec

11-13

As we enter winter time and the final month of 2014, nothing beats heading to the sand dunes to enjoy the day time thrills and night time stars. Join Guide Oman for a Desert Safari, trekking from Althaim to Khuwaymah and have fun with new friends in a special seasonal sand trek. Contact Abdul Raham on +968 9228 5813, Mohamed Najeeb on +968 9900 129 or Rebecca on +968 9803 8820/email Rmayston@theguideoman.com

SING-A-LONG It’s all about the music when The Muscat Singers present their 40th Anniversary Concert at The Bosch Center For The Performing Arts at The American International School Muscat (TAISM) in Azaiba. Performing with The Muscat Brass, it promises to be an evening of song and fun. First notes from 6.30pm, tickets are RO3. Seating is limited and it’s advance ticket sales only, available at TAISM main office or through members. Children over five only.

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

Dec

019

LAST ORDERS?

THE CALL TO PROHIBIT ALCOHOL IN OMAN IS BACK IN THE SPOTLIGHT WITH AN OVERWHELMING VOTE IN FAVOUR OF A BLANKET BAN. COULD THE SULTANATE REALLY GO THE SAME WAY AS NEIGHBOURING SAUDI ARABIA AND WHAT EFFECT MIGHT IT HAVE ON TOURISM? MATT BLACKWELL, KATE GINN AND DEEBA HASAN REPORT

ith the shimmering golden sun on the horizon beginning to set and a soft breeze blowing in off the Arabian Sea, it’s almost the perfect end to a perfect day. Imagine being a tourist visiting Oman for the first time and experiencing everything that the country has to offer, from breathtaking mountain scenery to soft sandy beaches, stunning desert landscapes and world-class resorts, all wrapped up in that famous Omani hospitality. At the end of a day spent exploring all this and more, some say it would be nice to relax with a sundowner and simply enjoy the view. Now imagine another scene in Muscat. Late at night a rowdy group of young men pour out onto the pavement, clearly the worse for wear. Incredibly, a couple of them intend to drive themselves home and may well end up as another road traffic accident statistic. In these two scenarios lies the dilemma facing the Sultanate and one that is back in focus after 84 per cent of Majlis Al Shura 020

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

members voted to implement a blanket ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol across the country this week. Speaking to the local media, Majlis Al Shura member, Humaid al Nasri, said that most members have supported a punishment for anyone who manufactures, drinks and conducts business in alcohol, whether on land, in the air or at sea in any territory of Oman. A source was quoted as saying that a number of Majlis Al Shura members believe a ban would reduce road accidents and save millions of rials spent on treating alcohol abuse victims in government hospitals. On average, it costs RO45 million a year to treat alcohol-related diseases in Oman, the most serious being cirrhosis of the liver. Within hours of the announcement, social media was abuzz with debate. What emerged was a community divided, split between the traditionalists who say the encroachment of modernity must have its limits and the more liberal, who point out that the country’s burgeoning tourist industry might be stalled

by such a “radical” move. To open your arms to the world, they argue, you must accept the bad with the good. Certainly, Oman is evolving as it moves forward and progression inevitably brings change. One thing that both sides agree on is that it’s a very thorny issue. Not least because Islam takes an uncompromising stand, forbidding Muslims to drink or even sell alcohol. Even nationals are split on their opinions. A 24-year-old Omani who drinks, tells Y: “I go to a restaurant and bar that is located near Rusayl roundabout sometimes, not very frequently. I go with my friends – people who like to drink just like me. I understand it is bad, I am Omani and a Muslim, but I developed this habit a little early on with my friends who used to drink and now I do occasionally go there. “As far as a ban on alcohol is concerned, I wouldn’t want that to happen. I am trying to quit, but it will take me some time. I don’t want the ban because I know people who

AROUND THE GCC Where our neighbouring countries stand on the issue Qatar

The Ministry (of Tourism) is being very shortsighted if they think that tourists are coming here for the sightseeing only. Without alcohol the experience will never be the same

In January 2012, Qatar announced it would ban the sale of alcohol on its flagship development Pearl-Qatar, a manmade island near the capital, Doha. The move followed complaints from locals about the growing consumption of alcohol in the tiny Muslim state.

Saudi Arabia

Operates a strict outright ban on the sale and consumption of liquor.

Bahrain want to drink will find a way to purchase alcohol.” On the other side of the camp is Sheikh Khalfan al Esry, an Omani religious scholar who is in favour of a complete ban. “We live in a society that is conservative and lives by Islamic values. The vast majority of Omani residents (including nonOmanis) do not consume alcohol. Hundreds and thousands of studies worldwide indicate that the burden upon countries due to consumption of alcohol far outweighs the expected benefits. “The move to ban alcohol will be welcomed by the majority and resented by some.” He does not think that a potential ban on alcohol would have a negative effect on the country’s tourist industry either, telling Y: “Tourists come to enjoy the Omani culture, explore the beauty of its nature and the warm hospitality of its people. Most of them do not miss the alcohol whilst in Oman. Moreover, the tourism in Oman does not focus on nightlife. “The final decision, either way, will certainly demonstrate that Oman is moving in the right direction.” Oman is not the only country facing a quandary over alcohol consumption. GCC states are often treading a delicate line between the expatriate population and their Muslim citizens, both of whom need pacifying. Currently, Oman is completely dry during the month a Ramadan, unlike the UAE where alcohol is served after Iftar is called. The sale of alcohol is strictly monitored in four of the Gulf states, with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait operating an outright ban on the sale and consumption of liquor. Qatar, which retains comparatively tight rules governing alcohol consumption, is hosting the World Cup in 2022 and faces the prospect of hundreds of thousands of thirsty football fans descending on the tiny Gulf state, but that is another story. So Oman is by no means alone in finding itself conflicted over drinking regulations. Nor is it the first time that the Majlis Al Shura has publicly declared a preference for a blanket ban on alcohol. Such a move was first mentioned at the beginning of the year and then again in June, when one member announced: “We feel the easygoing attitude towards the consumption and sale of alcohol is not doing any good.” No one is advocating the extreme liberalism seen in some Gulf countries, but there seems a legitimate concern that a ban could limit Oman’s huge push towards becoming

Pressure groups forced the government to close bars and clubs in the country’s three-star hotels in 2009.

Kuwait

Completely dry. Possession and consumption of alcohol is illegal in Kuwait. Alcohol cannot be legally purchased or imported into Kuwait. The penalties for possessing alcohol include heavy fines, imprisonment or deportation.

UAE

Viewed as one of the more liberal countries when it comes to alcohol. Non-Muslims need a liquor licence. Sharjah remains a dry emirate. However, Dubai, widely seen as the Gulf ’s most tolerant market, banned standalone bars and restaurants from displaying alcohol behind bars in June 2011.

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

021

a major player on the tourism stage. At a time when the Sultanate is laying down foundations for an economic future beyond oil and actively promoting itself as a tourist destination in western countries, do we really want to be seen allying ourselves with such draconian measures? There is more than just culture at stake. As one general manager at a Muscat hotel put it: “I think it will be a great loss if alcohol is banned. “Business travellers will still travel, but I think the Ministry (of Tourism) is being very shortsighted if they think that tourists are coming here for the sightseeing only. Without alcohol, the experience will never be the same.” Garry Friend, general manager at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel, agreed a ban of any kind would hit tourism. “Of course, very much so. The European tourists definitely like to have a glass of something with a meal; it’s part of their culture. “We have heard nothing official about any possible ban or had any contact from the authorities.”Gareth Piper, a 23-year-old Australian born and raised in Muscat, is firmly sided with the “no” vote. “Any law banning the consumption of alcohol in bars or nightclubs, most of which are in hotels or resorts, could be detrimental to hotel business,” he says. “If Oman is hoping for a major influx of international tourism then we need to cater for these tourists. Though maybe not to the extent other GCC countries have done.” He agrees that the topic needs to be looked at and, if necessary, smaller changes to the law passed, but not an outright ban. “At present, I feel that the laws are pretty liberal and fair on all sides considering we live in a fairly conservative Muslim country. Better awareness and education in schools is the way forward. Fines and penalties for things such as the illegal import of alcohol, driving under the influence and being intoxicated in public should be increased. Maybe a change in dress code for Omani nationals wishing to drink in bars or nightclubs could be looked at.” In Qatar, for instance, locals wearing national dress will not be allowed into bars serving alcohol.Jemma, a 22-year-old expat, is worried about how a ban would affect expatriates. “Unfortunately, much of our western culture revolves around drinking and living in a country without alcohol would not be an option for many expats. Therefore, it might have an impact on the number of expats taking jobs in positions where they are really needed. That being said, perhaps there could be tighter regulations in place to prevent those who take advantage of the easy availability of alcohol in a Muslim country. For example, those who drink-drive.” But, according to another hotel manager, there is nothing to worry about. He claims an alcohol ban would never become law in Oman. “It’s never going to happen. Something may be brought in to deal with Omanis

There are concerns that the consumption of alcohol is eroding the foundations of Omani heritage and cultural traditions

drinking but that’s it.” Even though the Majlis Al Shura have voted in favour of a ban, it now has to go to the Council of Ministers to be ratified, who are likely to veto it. The Grand Mufti of Oman, Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad al Khalili, has left no doubt as to his stance on the matter. At a public forum at Sultan Qaboos University in October 2012, when asked about the solution to the high rate of road accidents, he reportedly blasted the “decision makers” for “not wanting to solve the problem because the solution lies in the banning of alcohol. “The source of the problem is the presence of alcohol and banning it will solve a large part of the problem, but the political decision [makers] do not want this,” he said at the time. Statistics tell their own story. The latest Royal Oman Police (ROP) figures revealed that drinking while driving resulted in 167 road accidents, leaving 15 dead and many injured. There has been a steady 4 per cent rise in the number of patients being treated in government hospitals for alcohol-related diseases since 2010. A World Health Organization (WHO) report in 2007 put the figure of the number of people in Oman being treated for alcohol dependence at 384. These are just the known cases. The true figure could be much higher. Solid statistics regarding alcohol abuse are hard to come by. With only one centre in the country to treat alcohol addiction, it remains a hidden disease, kept secret by some families shamed by the stigma it would bring. Perhaps awareness rather than regulation is the way forward. Money could be ploughed into campaigns to educate the population on the dangers of excessive drinking and driving while under the influence. “Like the debate about driving behaviour in Oman, the government assumes that bans, fines and heftier penalties will solve the problem. What really needs to be done is to create better awareness among those unfamiliar with alcohol and its effects and educate the younger generation,” agrees Gareth Piper. “When I was at school both in Oman [British School Muscat] and Australia, we had weekly health classes where we were made aware of things like drugs and alcohol and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.” For now, it’s a waiting game. If a ban does come into force, however, then places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain can no doubt expect a lot more visitors from Oman in the near future.

022

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

T ES ST FA E TH ND FI TO NT HU E TH ON EN BE S RE D BU LL HA IN TE PE M CO TO AN OM IN ER IV DR T AR -K GO R EU AT AM T AT M E NG LE AL CH A – AR YE XT NE L NA FI A W OR LD BL AC KW EL L FI ND S TO O HA RD TO RE SI ST Images by Geoff Cruz

Photos: Geoff Cruz

022

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

lmost every grown man would have fantasised about becoming a racing driver at some point during his childhood. The breakneck speed down home straights, bumper-to-bumper battles around hairpin turns, the clamour of cheering crowds and the deafening roar of engines; it really is the stuff dreams are made of. And it’s a dream that Red Bull has given men and women in Oman the chance to make come true. The Red Bull Kart Fight is the opportunity for amateur go-kart enthusiasts to shine. It’s a global competition that has been running for a number of years, but 2014 marks the first time the search for the world’s best amateur driver has come to the Sultanate. Over recent weeks, racing addicts have descended on the Oman Automobile Association (OAA) in Seeb, Muscat, to test their mettle and pit their wits against the cream of Oman’s go-karting crop in a bid to prove they have what it takes. At stake is a chance to represent the nation in the world final in Austria’s Red Bull Ring in February next year. The day before regional qualifying closed, I found myself on the starting grid with the engine chugging away behind me, gloves on, visor down, wondering just what I was getting myself into. It must have been a good 10 years since I last sat in a go-kart – and that’s a modest estimate. As the petrol fumes seeped through the helmet’s air vents and butterflies danced in my stomach, I was desperately racking my brain, willing myself to remember those snatched snippets from a Grand Prix half watched, or that little gem of advice I’d received from a track marshal at a 15th birthday party. There was no time. We were being waved out of the pit lane and onto the track. The length of the course at the OAA can be tailored to the needs of certain events, with three different configurations available. We would be racing on a shortened version but still, the grey tarmac and brightly coloured barriers snaked out in front of me and there were a formidable number of corners in need of negotiating. “Take it easy for the first couple of laps,” everyone was told in the driver briefing. “Allow yourself to get a feel for the kart first,” had been the advice as we were collectively taught the meaning of the various warning flags and lights. Exiting that pit lane though, it was as if a hidden wave of competitiveness suddenly surfaced. Pedals hit metal and the din of 10 engines – perhaps not as impressive as Formula 1, but satisfyingly noisy nonetheless – filled the air as dusk fell and the floodlights flickered to life. Foot to the floor, I approached the first corner. With the excitement of the recent Abu Dhabi Grand Prix still fresh in my mind, dreams of championship winning glory got the better of me. I neglected to brake, approached at the wrong angle and attempted to accelerate out of the turn too early. I spun. Accepting that maybe I wasn’t Lewis Hamilton after all, I manoeuvred my way into the right direction once more and pulled off again. First lap down, I was beginning to regain a feel for go-karting and after spying a rival driver in the distance, set my sights on overtaking him. I followed in his slipstream and left my breaking as late as I dared. When the smallest of gaps opened up, I hammered down on the accelerator and sailed past. Soon I was ready for my next pass. Speed was my co-pilot and I was climbing through the pack faster than I could count. We had been allocated a 15-minute slot on the track to cram in as many laps as we could, with the fastest single lap time being recorded and, if fast enough, it would catapult us into the regional final being held tomorrow (Friday, December 12), when racers will battle it out to represent the Sultanate in the world final next year. As I hit the apex of corners with smooth racing lines and accelerated out in a burst of speed, I began to think that perhaps all those years playing driving video games on Xbox weren’t misspent after all. My go-kart shot round the track in a turquoise blue blur and as I caught sight of the chequered flag that signalled the final lap I really let loose, throwing caution to the wind as I set myself the target of one last overtake. The thrill was exhilarating as I powered through corners in pursuit of the driver ahead and I accomplished my goal on the second-to-last turn with a cheeky manoeuvre. But was it enough to put me in the final? Scanning the race overview printout, I was somewhat impressed to discover I had come second in my heat and now it’s just a waiting game as the results are collated. Those dreams of racing glory may yet be granted. We’ll have to wait and see.

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

023

As part of Y’s # Swim4Life campaign, Deeba Hasan takes an Emergency First Response training course with Lua Lua Diving and Adventure

026

DEC 11 – 17 / ISSUE 348

JO Le #Swnd you IN U r v S: im on FPost y 4Life oice to twe aceb our c camp Y’s et u ook om aig edi s @yt .com ments n. tor@ abl /yta y-o oid o bloid ma r em , n.co m ail

have never given first aid to someone before. the emergency services asking for assistance and So to be faced with a four-and-half hour then I started with the CPR. I interlocked my intensive training course was a somewhat fingers, straightened my back and found the spot daunting prospect. I knew it would be a for the chest compressions. As I pressed against serious eye-opener. Learning about rescuing the chest, I didn’t hear the click that sounded someone from a near-drowning situation or when Stuart did it. I tried really hard but again helping someone who had entered cardiac arrest nothing happened. It took me a few times before (heart attack) was sure to be a very enlightening I realised it was my body pressure that I needed experience and an invaluable skill to possess. to exert on the dummy and not pressure from To begin with, Stuart Martin and Tegan my hands. It was then time for mouth-to-mouth Randall from Lua Lua resuscitation and I was a Diving and Adventure gave bit nervous. Initially, I was me some simple theory not able to blow into the lessons. This furnished me dummy’s mouth properly with a knowledge of life– every time I blew in, saving basics and put me nothing happened. Then I in the right frame of mind remembered the theory and for when we got going with realised that I needed to tilt the hands-on practical I HAVE NEVER GIVEN FIRST the dummy’s head before work. Stuart and Tegan are AID TO SOMEONE BEFORE. SO blowing into the mouth. great fun to work with and TO BE FACED WITH A FOUR This was all part of the their easygoing manner AND HALF HOUR INTENSIVE primary care. TRAINING COURSE WAS and plentiful smiles put me After this, I learnt about A SOMEWHAT DAUNTING immediately at ease. secondary care. Under PROSPECT. I KNEW IT WOULD Tegan’s instruction, I The first thing that I BE A SERIOUS EYE-OPENER. was taught the proper was to learn was CPR LEARNING ABOUT RESCUING examination techniques and (cardiopulmonary SOMEONE FROM A NEARresuscitation). This learnt how to check for signs DROWNING SITUATION OR of shock, spinal injuries and technique is used when HELPING SOMEONE WHO a person has stopped serious bleeding. I also found HAD ENTERED CARDIAC breathing, are breathing out how to apply bandages ARREST WAS SURE TO BE abnormally or when to a wound and treat it in A VERY ENLIGHTENING someone is experiencing order to stem bleeding. EXPERIENCE cardiac arrest. It’s Some of the bandage tying performed in an effort to was more technical than I restore blood circulation initially thought it would and keep the person alive be, especially in regard to until help arrives. treating serious bleeding. The trick to CPR is As the session drew to a getting the technique close, my final task loomed right. We went over some large. Before I could theory from a book and then I watched a short become a qualified emergency first responder, film. I saw how different people in the video I would have to complete an exam to reinforce performed CPR and, thanks to Stuart’s practical everything I had learnt throughout the day. demonstration on the dummy, I felt pretty Upon successful completion, I was presented confident when it was my turn to give it a go. with a certificate and went home reassured in the I did just as Stuart told me – I explained knowledge that what I had learnt could perhaps to the casualty – or dummy in this practice one day save a life. scenario – that I was there to help them and For more information on Emergency First asked for their permission to intervene. I called Response courses, go to lualuadiving.com

DEC 11 – 17 / ISSUE 348

027

FOOD AND DRINK

Trend

New Restaurant

SEASONAL TREATS

Reviews

Turkey, roast potatoes and bread sauce are just some of the ingredients that go into the traditional meals shared between family and friends in December.

028

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

TREND New Restaurant

News

Mid Range:

FESTIVE FEASTS At this time of year, some of us love nothing more than a bit of roast turkey with all the trimmings. But where can such a delectable dinner be found in Muscat? Adam Hurrell does the digging for you

here are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to selecting a seasonal lunch or dinner. There are also a variety of price ranges, so regardless of your festive funds, there’s no need to miss out.

High End:

The Chedi Muscat will be offering a sumptuous multi-course seasonal feast at a Christmas Eve dinner (December 24). It costs RO60 per person. For reservations and more information, call 2452 4400 or email restaurant@chedimuscat.com. Advance bookings are strongly recommended. The award-winning Al Khiran Terrace restaurant at Al Bustan Palace will be offering multiple options for its Christmas Day brunch. Starting from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, choices will range from a traditional Christmas dinner right through to seafood, while Santa is also scheduled to drop in with presents for the kids. The brunch is priced at RO34 (soft drinks) and RO55 (including bubbles and selected beverages) for adults, and RO17 for children. To book, call 2479 9666.

Mince Pies

Possibly one of the best things about this time of year is the humble mince pie. Bring a bit of festive flair to your household with this easy recipe Ingredients § 225g cold butter § 350g plain flour § 100g golden caster sugar § 280g mincemeat § 1 small egg § icing sugar to dust

The Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel is offering two different options on Christmas Day, with a “Jingle Bells” Christmas brunch including a glass of bubbly at the Mokha Café for RO39, or an Italian Christmas lunch with a glass of bubbly at Tuscany for RO42. For more information and reservations, call 2464 1234 or email muscat.dining@hyatt.com Father Christmas will be visiting guests both young and old in the Dhow area by the Marina at Shangri La’s Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa between 3pm and 4.30pm on Christmas Day, while parents will be spoilt for choice when it comes to their dining options. Al Tanoor will be offering a traditional buffet lunch for RO18 and a buffet dinner for RO20 (add RO10 for unlimited house beverages). The contemporary Samba restaurant is offering a family Christmas buffet for RO18, while the stunning beachside Bait al Bahr will be serving a four-course seafood Christmas dinner for RO25 (RO9 for children). Meanwhile, Capri Court will be offering of a fourcourse Italian-themed Christmas dinner for RO25 (RO9 for kids). For bookings, call the hotel on 2477 6666. Musandam Café & Palm Lane Garden at the InterContinental Muscat has a Christmas Day brunch planned from 12.30pm with plenty of fun throughout the day, including a visit from Santa. It costs RO30 and special beverage packages are available. Call 2468 0000 for details.

Budget: Golden Tulip, Seeb, is planning a traditional Christmas lunch on December 25, with Santa in attendance Tickets are RO18 and the festivities will take place from noon until 4pm at Le Jardin. 2451 4444 City Seasons Hotel Muscat is hosting a special Christmas Day brunch in Seasons Restaurant from 11.30am– 3.30pm. They will be serving an international menu as well as traditional favourites. Prices are an exceptionally reasonable RO15 per person.

Preparation method

● To make the pastry, dice the butter and rub into the plain flour. Mix in 100g golden caster sugar and a pinch of salt. Combine the pastry into a ball and knead briefly. The dough will be fairly firm, like shortbread dough. ● Preheat the oven to 200˚C/Gas Mark 6. Line 18 holes of two 12-hole patty tins, by pressing small walnut-sized balls of pastry into each hole. Spoon the mincemeat into the pies. ● Take slightly smaller balls of pastry than before and pat them out between your hands to make round lids, big enough to cover the pies. Press the edges gently together to seal. ● Beat the egg and brush the tops of the pies. Bake for 20 minutes until golden. Leave to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then remove to a wire rack. To serve, lightly dust with icing sugar.

Source: bbcgoodfood.com

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

029

FOOD AND DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

REVIEWS

Info Box

Crêpe Café

The Wave, Muscat Opening hours: 7.30am-11.30pm Sun-Thurs Lunch for two plus drinks: RO21.6 www.thecrepecafe.com

Verdict 7 / 10 Service 7 / 10 Food 7 / 10 Ambience Flipping nice, but all round average Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

CRÊPE EXPECTATIONS

IT’S THE SWEETEST FEELING WHEN YOU FIND A PLACE THAT CATERS TO YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD. JUST BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVERINDULGE, SAYS KATE GINN

here’s an old saying that you should never work with children or animals, an adage that I’ve often found to be true. For the purposes of this particular Taste Test, however, I needed to take a diner with me who would truly appreciate the food on offer and I knew just the young gourmand who would fit the bill – Y’s managing editor’s 11-year-old daughter, Cia. Now Cia and I have bonded over a love of all things sweet, be it chocolate, waffles or sickly milkshakes and I had an inkling that she would enjoy a café specialising in serving crêpes and all manner of associated food items (think waffles, French toast and pancakes). I knew I was on to a winner when Cia said the menu looked “awesome”, a description reserved for anything that is or looks like the best thing in the world. The same word is used to describe the boy band One Direction. First launched by French-Australian entreprenerus in Australia in 2001, The Crêpe Café crossed the water to the Middle East in 2007. As with most franchises, you pretty much know what you’re getting and there are no surprises in store, which can be a good and bad thing. In this case though, the menu does apparently vary from country-to-country. The store at The Wave is the second

030

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

branch in Muscat and can be found along the pedestrian boulevard just down from the marina. You don’t get sea views, but you can eat al fresco. Little madam, opted for inside though, which, being empty when we arrived, was slightly devoid of atmosphere. Despite the name, The Crêpe Café doesn’t limit itself to the aforementioned food and the choice stretched to omelettes, French sandwiches and salads. But Cia and I were there to eat crêpes and nothing else would do. After some deliberation we opted for Aussie Sunrise for me (under the Breakfast heading) and the Quesadilla crêpe for Cia (from the Poultry section – there’s also Vegetarian and Beef). I chose mine simply based on a photo from the menu, a sun-like golden fried egg resting atop a crepe framed by two strategically positioned chives. It came minus the chives but was nonetheless excellent, with a creamy cheese and mushroom filling and a bright orange yolk, which slid across the crêpe like eggy lava when broken. The crêpe itself was well cooked and just the right consistency. Mademoiselle across the table was tucking into a mammoth Quesadilla topped with sour cream, guacamole and tomato salsa. Quesadilla’s are one of Cia’s favourite foods, but she struggled with the size of this dish and pronounced it as only “alright”, which is not “awesome”, but isn’t too bad on her ratings scale either. The hot chocolate was better received, described as being like “drinking a chocolate bar”. The waiters were quick and efficient, if a little underwhelming in the conversation department. You don’t want your server to be your new best friend, but a little bit of chat to pass the time wouldn’t go amiss. The ethos of The Crêpe Café is, according to its website, to be an elegant, fast casual cafe. It’s certainly fast food; we didn’t have to wait long until our sweet crêpes arrived. To be honest, the dessert part of the meal is the

main reason that Cia and I were there, particularly me with my exceptionally sweet tooth. And boy did they have some sweet treats, from plain sugar crêpes to maple syrup and Kinder chocolate to banana caramel, there was something for everyone’s taste. I dithered. Cia dithered. We just couldn’t decide. Cia flitted between the Creme Dessert Crêpe and the Carnival, switching between the two like young girls do with boy bands.

WE LEFT FULL AND REASONABLY HAPPY. THE CRÊPE CAFÉ DIDN’T BLOW ME AWAY, BUT IT DIDN’T DISAPPOINT EITHER After all that angst her eventual choice, the Creme Dessert, wasn’t available and the Carnival proved a bit of a letdown, or “boring”, being only chopped up strawberries and bananas, vanilla syrup and whipped cream with ice cream. I couldn’t decide either so ended up gong for both the ones I was looking at, purely for research purposes of course. The Nutella Delight was just that, wonderfully over the top with Nutella, hazelnuts, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and ice cream, but the Peanut Butter & Jam was too much even for me. The cloying syrupy taste had my sweetmeter swinging off the scale and I could only manage a few mouthfuls, let alone the extra portion of Nutella I had rather optimistically ordered on the side. We left full and reasonably happy. The Crêpe Café didn’t blow me away, but it didn’t disappoint either. If I’m hungry and passing by, I would drop in again – though the Peanut Butter & Jam would definitely be off my menu.

STAY CONNECTED With

24/7 /yTaBLoID

www.y-oman.com

/ymaGaZInE

@yTaBLoID

/yTaBLoID

sCaN Our Qr CODEs WITH aNY Qr rEaDEr aPP

HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

Beauty

FASHION

EVERYDAY LUXE

Modern women no longer keep their sparkles exclusively for evenings. They wear them to accessorise their every day look. That’s why Swarovski’s new stardust bracelets are so popular.

032

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

GLITTERATI

Pearls are big news this season, that’s why we’re giving these stacking rings from Accessorize the big thumbs up. From RO5

Hurrah for the party season, because these beautiful pieces are just the thing to bring the bling, says Penny Fray

Tis the season to party, and when the only outfit at hand is that classic LBD at the back of the wardrobe, a statement piece of jewellery offers an instant update. A look-at-me necklace or uniquely crafted ring is a talking point that whispers volumes about the wearer. They speak of wealth, taste and philosophy far more effectively than any business card. Saying that, you can never go wrong with a pair of diamond studs or a Mikimoto pearl necklace. But let’s be honest here – they’re a bit beige. If you’re really eager to buy into this season’s biggest bling trend, then you need to be kooky. Playful pieces like Diane Kordas’ “WOW” diamond pendant or Delfina Delettrez’s eye designs mix precious stones with modern, irreverent design. Ear cuffs are still cool but when it comes to rings, choose a design that hovers on the finger, playing with both structure and form. Thankfully, last year’s obsession with baubles – the bigger the better – has been replaced by subtler pieces that are less about size and more about statement. Think of Tiffany & Co’s new Tiffany T collection or Pandora’s meaningful charms. Talismans that ward off evil remain popular, as do tribal pieces with a twist. Middle Eastern designers like Noor Fares are huge right now. But to really be ahead of the pack, hunt Oman’s souks and craft fairs for new talent because, let’s face it, character always trumps cost.

Headbands embellished with clusters of faux pearls were big news on this season’s catwalks. This version from Zara is a steal online at RO10

Jennifer Meyer gives the hamsa hand symbol her signature fine jewellery makeover, using gold and diamonds. A mystical amulet believed for centuries to evoke protection against evil, this glittering necklace is a beautifully contemporary way to wear the longtreasured emblem. From RO1,500 at Net-a-Porter

This cobweb of faux gold from H&M works equally well with a crisp white shirt or a glamorous evening gown. From RO12

Francesca Amfitheatrof, Tiffany & Co’s new design director, has given the classic brand a much needed shot of cool with its new Tiffany T Collection. Gold bracelet from RO580

From her Fly Me To The Moon collection, Noor Fares’ 18-carat gold earrings are hand-carved using an Ancient Egyptian technique. A sprinkling of sparkling brown diamonds emphasise the beautiful natural colour variation of the agate. From RO2700 at Net-a-Porter

THE FINISHING

TOUCH

Tips to rock your jewellery:

1. Diamonds aren’t always a girl’s best friend. A showstopper of a ring centered on one large, colourful stone like amethyst or topaz can make more of an impact. 2. Who says you need to be rich to invest in fine jewellery? Consider gold vermeil and pave-set diamonds in unconventional designs. 3. Update unused or unwanted jewels by getting them reworked by an artisan into a fresh, contemporary piece.

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

033

HEALTH& BEAUTY

Beauty

HEALTH F a s h i o n

It took a while, but Felicity Glover finally understands the importance of a healthy work-life balance

ooking back, it’s been an action-packed couple of years spread out over two continents: from Abu Dhabi to Copenhagen, Denmark, and then on to Muscat. Not bad if you consider that I only left Abu Dhabi in January 2013 and arrived in Muscat in May this year. Along the way, there’s been two new jobs, two new schools, house hunting, car hunting, a tonne of red tape to negotiate across three cities, and no real decent break since 2012 to take a deep breath and get my bearings. So it’s no wonder that I was exhausted and finally “hit a wall” a couple of weeks ago. Admittedly, it was a pretty frightening experience as I ended up in hospital. But in the following days, I began to slowly understand that any normal person would struggle to keep up with similar demands and responsibilities. I was existing on just a few hours of sleep a night, stupidly skipping two to three meals a day, working long hours and being a full-time mum at home, not to mention moving countries a couple of times. No wonder the cracks were beginning to show. After coming home from hospital, I slept for nearly 18 hours – a first for me. And then the reality set in: do I want to be healthy or do

AS MUCH AS I WANT TO DO IT ALL, I NOW UNDERSTAND THAT THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I HAVE TO SLOW DOWN AND RELAX 034

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

I want to continue trying to be Superwoman? Everybody has their personal breaking point – or wall, if you prefer. I was living on adrenaline for much of the past two years, but was able to keep up the fast pace simply because that is the way I have always been. But as much as I want to do it all, I now understand that there are times when I have to slow down and relax. But I wasn’t allowing myself to do that. That said, finding a work-life balance is always going to be hard, especially in an age when we are switched on literally 24/7 thanks to internet-enabled mobile devices. Then again, when I walk through the front door of my home in the evenings, I am still the managing editor of Y Magazine – and will always answer those work-related calls and emails. And when I walk into the office in the morning, I’m still a mum who will always answer that (Inshallah, non-urgent) call from school and build time into my schedule to catch my daughter in the school play. According to the website WorkLifeBalance.com, very few people in the world have found the perfect balance between home and work. “There is no perfect, one-size fits all balance you should be striving for,” the US-based organisation says. “The best work-life balance is different for each of us because we all have different priorities and different lives.” According to a recent online survey by Moore & Smalley, a business advisory firm in the UK, a work-life balance is a top priority for many workers.

THE BEST WORK-LIFE BALANCE IS DIFFERENT FOR EACH OF US BECAUSE WE ALL HAVE DIFFERENT PRIORITIES AND DIFFERENT LIVES “Employees are increasingly placing more value on work-life balance over pay and benefits,” the company says. “The online poll found that almost two thirds [60 per cent] of employees see a healthier balance between work and personal lives as their top priority, while only 20 per cent of those surveyed placed the most emphasis on the pay package.” But what about business leaders? The Harvard Business Review published an article earlier this year that was based on five years’ worth of interviews with 4,000 executives, both male and female, around the world. And the conclusion on worklife balances is interesting. “By making deliberate choices about which opportunities they’ll pursue and which they’ll decline, rather than simply reacting to emergencies, leaders can and do engage meaningfully with work, family and community.

“They’ve discovered through hard experience that prospering in the senior ranks is a matter of carefully combining work and home so as not to lose themselves, their loved ones, or their foothold on success,” the article says. But staying flexible and going with the flow of life’s events is also one of the key ways to find this balance. “Deliberate choices don’t guarantee complete control,” according to the Harvard Business Review. “Life sometimes takes over, whether it’s a parent’s dementia or a teenager’s car accident. “But many of the executives we’ve studied – men and women alike – have sustained their momentum during such challenges while staying connected to their families. “Their stories and advice reflect five main themes: defining success for yourself, managing technology, building support networks at work and at home, travelling or relocating selectively, and collaborating with your partner.” In the meantime, I’m slowly but surely learning how far I can push myself. But understanding my limits will help everybody in the end – not just me, but also my family, friends and colleagues.

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 • 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 • Golden Tulip • 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

Indoors

Y- F i

Cars

CARS AND ADVENTURES

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S IN THE DETAIL

When visiting somewhere like Nizwa, look beyond the obvious and search out the intricate historial details to really enhance your trip.

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

037

CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E S T I N AT I O N P o s t c a r d s f r o m

Y- F i

Indoors

Destination

SMALL DETAILS OF NIZWA THIS WEEK, WE HEAD BACK TO 2012 TO FOCUS ON SOME OF THE FINER DETAILS THAT THE HISTORICAL TOWN OF NIZWA HAS TO OFFER 038

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

Cars

TRAVEL GUIDE

ver recent weeks, we’ve been scouring through former Y photographer Jerzy Wierzbicki’s collection of beautiful pictures from around the Sultanate, highlighting some of his most interesting trips in a retrospective series. This week, we make the short trip south to Nizwa and take in the fascinating little details that give this historic town such a unique flavour. Here’s Jerzy’s take on it: “Often when we visit places, we tend to pay more attention to the bigger objects like architecture and even prominent landmarks that dot the landscape. But there are some locations that entice us to stop by and have a look at all the little details that add to its beauty. “I am referring to the small, almost invisible details that tell several stories about the local culture and history of those locations. These are often more noticeable in towns that have been populated for a long time. If you are an attentive spectator you could find several little features that have a long historical association with the culture of that place. “Here in Oman, I have found a number of cultural artifacts that provide information about specific local cultures and also bring out the essence of that location. “One such interesting place is the old town in Nizwa. I was fascinated when I first visited a few years ago and have been drawn back several times since then. “Nizwa has a fantastic character in the evening, when the faint artificial light from the shops illuminates the dark old streets and the smell of the frankincense and bazaar spices fill the air. There is a kind of majestic silence that only adds to the ambience of the town. “However, during my last two visits to the old town in Nizwa, I have focused on the smaller details of the place. Interestingly, it turned out that the small and narrow streets and the old mudbrick constructions were hiding some wonderful little details, providing a fascinating insight into the history of the town. “Old wooden and sculpted doors, metal parts of locks, wooden reliefs engrained with Arabic calligraphy, old painted parts of the windows in intense colours, still vivd even after many years. “Some parts of the bazaar are located inside old mud-brick buildings and they are still very much in use. The light inside is subdued and very smooth, adding to the soft effect in the photographs captured. In the mornings, warm colours of the items on display and spices sold in the market create a positive mood, which is of special importance for good travel photographs. Nizwa is filled with several small remnants of history. People here still respect old customs, which makes this place very valuable for Omani heritage. “I recommend all our readers to visit Nizwa in the morning or as dusk sets in. It’s the time when natural light and the essence of the old town infuses the place with a specific spirit.”

HOW TO GET THERE Nizwa is just under 180km from Muscat, along road 15. A 4x4 is not necessary.

GPS location of the entrance to the old town in Nizwa: 22°55’56”N 57°31’57”E DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

039

CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES edy It’s the season for com takes a peek n productions. Kate Gin Al Hamra Ras behind the scenes at ety in PDO as Amateur Drama Soci ing night they get ready for open

Ogre bays r and thundering voice, the ith a bone-shattering roa d a bang, the beast appears in all for blood. After a crash an uting loud enough to scare small its terrifying splendour, shos alike. children and nervous adultl costume. For now, Hugh McLean Ogre is in ful ing him the air of Or at least he will when the , which while certainly giv t of his ire by the way tfit ou e -lik vet vel jec ob e is dressed in a Th g. t entirely convincin some feral creature, is no his wife Jamie. by yed pla is is played by a man, is Jack, who me “dame”, meanwhile, Jack’s mother, the pantomispeaking English in his very pronounced native Bertrand Membre, who isile, the Ogre’s housekeeper, Hanne Efkind, who French accent. Meanwh to speak in a French accent. has Nordic roots, is trying mime, or just Confused? You will be. her weird world of panto h the concept, rat d an cky wa the to me Welco haps aren’t familiar wit atrical known. For those who per “panto” as it’s informally y of celebrating the festive season. It’s a type of the h wa fairy tale or nursery panto is a peculiarly Britisnot exclusively for kids that is usually based on a is the basic rule of t ter bu bet y . The the sillier the entertainment mainl jokes and slapstick comedy y the roles of women story and involves music, overacting of all kinds are prerequisite. Men pla invited) and everyone d un an d thumb. Exaggeration there’s lots of audience interaction (invited an sed on the Petroleum ntre, ba and vice versa, s Al Hamra Recreation Ce of a has a great time. At the Ra O) site in Muscat, panto has become somethingg on the (PD ttin an pu s year, they’re Development Om the Dramatic Society and thi tradition for the Amateur lk. Last year’s Cinderella went down a storm, while nsta Bea the lar. classic Jack and ddin proved equally popu d previous production of Alak into the world of putting on a panto, the ups an pee ick qu a Y was given between. downs and everything in sound of music can be heard drifting out of anthe the ht, nig ay ich is revealed as On Wednesd t to the swimming pool, whking about magic nex ing ild bu a m fro or tal do are open e. On stage, some people its entrance to a small theatrntomime racing camel is flexing its legs ready for ls gir pa a ng gs, you win two d the an In up beans. ir rope is waiting to be raised cue. A beanstalk made of are going over their lines backstage waiting for the ats nco rai ge bei in d dresse DS) and the tension is next appearance. Dramatic Society (RAHA ur ate Am a mr Ha Al d work clearly still to be s an It’s rehearsals for the Ra ht just a week away (due to open on Dec 11) building, with opening nig performances. w’s director who has the done in order to polish up s a frazzled-looking, Brian Greenhalgh, the shoout of his cast. Those “It’s getting there,” say of making it all work and extracting the best embled audience. rather daunting task press the director and ass his right-hand im to all ir the it ing giv y e director and on stage are obviousl boards. h enthusiastic clapping. Th Each scene is greeted wit o is in charge of choreography, make notes on clip hing,” ryt wh eve y, rra are s and timing woman, Nicola Mu the perfect panto. “Cues and a children’s chorus of on g ttin pu to art an ’s rs There principal actors, four dance tume, to says Brian. Along with 12 involved backstage, from making the sets and cos ple peo 20 d un aro 10, there’s ck, the ting. doing the sound and ligh learn their lines in their own time. If they get stu tence. sen to or ed rd ect wo exp ht are rig All actors nd to offer the ha on ays alw is or’s ), nn 16 Co ill, s prompter (Connor O’Ne remember for some of the main characters,” say nders) and is Sa to e nis lot De ful by aw d “There’s an of Fairy Moonbeam (playe y feat the lines for the character g to keep the younger performers in line – no easto go ote wr o wh i, qu Jac m, mu nt pin wa hel d be an l g wil i nin qu eve Jac ors. for the one of the children’s directr-olds have had enough playing actor or actress yea ensev or six d tire en wh t. up got a role of some sor home. t every child who turned ng with kids,” says Hussain al bu rts, pa nto pa for ion for a ause we are worki Adults had to audit time round, especially bec who sells the racing camel “It’s been really nice this ys two smaller roles – a traveller and the agent ble and fun for all concerned.” oya o pla Noumani, an Omani wh e is lots of music and singing, so it’s definitely enjches of their own – making her tou “T few ns. a bea ded in the have ad bag of magic ht in, but the RAHADS d giving it an Omani twist or two. The milk cow an The panto script was boug – it e alis loc to a zw and Ni references to Dubai, Ruwies Humphrey, a racing camel. says Brian. om bec w no ry sto and had it couriered over,” al gin UK ori the m fro e lin food. on the tfit ises el ou “I bought the panto cam front of house, helps out with make-up and organo works for PDO), also made the es (wh do h Robert Langedijk Brian’s wife, Sheila, in of lighting and sound wit Julie Nunweek, in charge structing it out of rope. Everyone, it seems, mucks mise of a panto. pre con sic ba sly iou the up enu s ing , sum alk ich nst bea t appearance. together,” says Robert, wh “It’s all about having fun to get the spotlight ready for Fairy Moonbeam’s nex ck With that, he turns ba

040

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

Postcards from

Y- F i

C a r s INDOORS

Classic Panto

Phrase s

“He audienc’s behind you e to the ! hero ab” (shouted by out the villain) “Oh no he isn’ t!” (the her o) “Oh ye s (the aud, he is!” ience) For info rmati RAHADon about RAH A S.oman @gmail DS, email .com

The Story

ack and the Beanstalk is based on k an English fairy tale dating bac the several hundred years. It tells s live o wh k Jac ed call boy story of cow, their with his mother and their milktimes en Wh e. om inc only source of the cow at become hard, Jack has to sell , he trades ney mo of ead a market but inst grow into a it for magic beans. The beans to discover bs, clim k Jac ich giant stalk, wh steals a giant’s home at the top. He apes down esc and nt gia the treasure from rwards so the stalk, chopping it down afte th. dea his to s fall that the giant

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

041

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Destination

Indoors

Y-Fi

Cars

POSTCARDS FROM

Adam Hurrell recommends

TAMARIU, SPAIN T

a m a r i u i s a d e l i g h t fu l s p o t , w e d g e d b e t w e e n h i g h h i l l s o n each side, with the village squeezed into the valley below. Characterised by low-rise buildings along the seafront and luxury villas on the high headlands, Tamariu and its s u r r o u n d i n g v i l l a g e s a r e f a m e d fo r t h e i r s e c l u s i o n , p e a c e , q u i e t and outstanding natural beauty. Unlike some of the more famous r e s o r t s o n t h e M e d i t e r r a n e a n , T a m a r i u h a s a w o n d e r fu l s e n s e of community and hospitality. Returning and new guests alike are warmly welcomed and thoroughly looked after. Tamariu is part of the municipality of Palafrugell, roughly 50 minutes from Girona-Costa Brava Airport. The name Tamariu is said to have come from the many tamarisk trees that line the promenade. A relative of mine has been holidaying in this c h a r m i n g l i tt l e v i l l a g e t h a t n e s t l e s o n t h e c o a s t o f t h e S p a n i s h C o s t a B r a v a fo r t h e p a s t 5 0 y e a r s a n d m y f i r s t v i s i t w a s i n 2001. I have been going back with family and friends almost every year since.

My favourite place This has to be the promenade and the beach, both of which are perfect for relaxing in the sun over long lunches that extend late into the evening. The beach is Blue Flag certified, meaning it meets the stringent standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education and offers crystal-clear waters and beautiful soft sand. When I’m there, I usually wander down the hill in the mid-afternoon, buy a newspaper and spend the afternoon on the beach filling out the crossword. It is the perfect tonic to an otherwise hectic life. In addition to the trusty newsagents, a vast array of cafes and restaurants line the seafront and are well stocked with local dishes, seafood and sumptuous paella. These restaurants are the perfect spots to spend lazy afternoons to just watch the world go by. For those who love people watching, there are few better places to do it. Just behind the beach is a boules pitch and many a long summer afternoon has been spent watching the local men play game after game. At the far end of the beach is the local scuba diving company, Stollis, which offers a wide range of dives in the local bay. I dived there in June this year and had a wonderful time. The waters were clean and clear and the dive crew couldn’t be faulted.

THE AN C IE N

T C IT Y OF EMP ÚR

IE S

T A G B EA C H A TH E B LU E FL TA M A R IU

Highlights About an hour’s drive from Tamariu is the ancient city of Empúries. Founded by the Greeks in 575BC and then occupied by the Romans in the first century BC, the city remained in Roman hands up until the sixth century AD. Now a major tourist attraction, Empúries is famed for vast stretches of ruins and mosaics that visitors can explore. There is also an outstanding museum that explains the full story of the city and surrounding areas. An excellent beach is also within the grounds of Empúries and there is a walkway that takes you up to the quaint village of Sant Martí d’Empúries, which is well worth a visit. Lowlights

Parking is exceptionally limited in Tamariu. As such, it is best to walk to the village if possible, although it’s best to pack your shoes as it can be a steep climb.

Souvenirs Tamariu has all the usual tourist offerings, but for a really unique item, take the 20-minute drive to La Bisbal d’Empordà. Ceramics is the mainstay of the local economy and all sorts of colourful clay creations can be purchased. Everything from pots to animals and crockery, if it can be made out of clay, the chances are La Bisbal d’Empordà will stock it in a variety of colours. Where to stay There are a number of companies offering holidays in the villas in the village and surrounding areas. Alternatively, if it’s a hotel you would prefer, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Tamariu, located on the seafront. 042

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

DIVING

IN THE MEDIT ER

RANEA

-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Postcards from

Cars

Indoors

Y-FI

COOL YULE TECH With the festive season well and truly upon us, Matt Blackwell brings you the gadgets that will help you make the most of Christmas TOUGH TABLET The savior of stressed mums and frantic fathers is here: the Xperia Tablet Z: Kitchen Edition. Get all your Christmas recipes and manage your festive shopping lists on this kitchen-proof piece of kit. The tablet can withstand sticky fingerprints and accidental spills thanks to its durable glass, carbon-fibre panel and revolutionary water-resistant design. This sturdy item can even stay submerged for up to 30 minutes. It has 32GB of flash memory and comes with an iGrill wireless digital thermometer to make sure the turkey is cooked perfectly. Available for RO231 from amazon.com

CUSTOM CHRISTMAS

KEEP IT FRESH

EDITOR’S PICK

Nibbles are a key part of hosting any good party, but crisps and nuts can quickly go stale once the bags have been opened. Prove you are the hostess with the mostess by investing in an iTouchless Bag Re-Sealer, just slide it across any open bag and it’ll become airtight once more in seconds, locking in the freshness. Available in a two pack for just RO8.08 from amazon.com

044

Christmas decorations just got a whole lot more interactive thanks to the Lumenplay App-Enabled Lights Starter Set. As its name suggests, this set gives you the power to control 16 million light colours through your iPhone, iPad or Android device using the free accompanying app. Each string has 12 LED bulbs and you’ll be able to daisy chain them with other sets and control up to eight other Lumenplay receivers individually or simultaneously with one device. Dazzle your friends and make the neighbours jealous with your very own customised light show and, if you like what you’ve created, you can save it, name it and share it. Available for RO30.8 from brookstone.com

SEASONAL STREAMING IF THE USUAL FESTIVE OFFERINGS ON TV JUST DON’T DO IF FOR YOU ANYMORE, THEN THE ROKU 3500R STREAMING STICK MAY WELL COME IN VERY HANDY. PLUG IT STRAIGHT INTO YOUR TV’S HDMI PORT AND THE STREAMING STICK WILL CONNECT VIA WI-FI TO GIVE YOU A WEALTH OF INTERNET CHANNELS AT YOUR FINGER TIPS, MEANING NO MORE FIGHTING OVER WHAT’S ON. ALMOST EVERY MAJOR VIDEO SERVICE IS COVERED, INCLUDING THE LIKES OF DEMAND FIVE, NETFLIX, YOUTUBE AND NOW TV, TO NAME JUST A FEW. VIDEOS STREAM SMOOTHLY AT 1080P AND CONTROL IS EASY VIA THE REMOTE INCLUDED. AVAILABLE FOR RO18.87 FROM AMAZON.COM

JULY1103- 18- 09/ ISSUE DEC / ISSUE348327

FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS

App of the Week

FELINE FUN Wearing paper hats around the dinner table is so 20th century; step into the digital age by giving each member of your festive party a pair of Necomimi Brain Wave Cat Ears and hilarity is sure to ensue. Using a research-grade forehead EEG sensor, the device reads electrical signals from your brain and the fluffy ears respond accordingly. When something grabs your attention, the ears will perk up and wiggle back and forth. When you are concentrating they stand up and when you are relaxed, they will slowly droop down. Available for RO26.93 from hammacher.com

NEW

FUJIFILM INSTAX SHARE SMARTPHONE PRINTER SP-1

A photograph is the best way to capture the magic of family moments and these days, the quality of cameras on smartphones can rival even some digital cameras. But what do you with all your pictures once they’ve uploaded to social media? They often just sit in your phone’s memory, but not anymore thanks to the Fujifilm Instax Share Smartphone Printer SP-1. Now you can print all your fun pictures the moment you take them thanks to this fun portable wireless instant printer. You’ll be able to choose different templates and filters for your photo before printing a 2.4 x 1.8-inch copy. Available for RO58.53 from amazon.com

CAMME

This great new app finally lets you take a great seasonal selfie without the awkward arm or cringe-worthy selfie stick. All you have to do is stand within plain view of your smartphone or tablet (up to 5m away), hold up your hand and make a fist. This simple gesture will then initiate a countdown, making this app perfect for large group shots at festive gatherings. Free to download from the App Store

FOR THE KIDS

What festive season is complete without a little mischief? Well, it’s mission made possible thanks to the Doc Rover 2.0 Wireless Spy Tank. Now little ones will be able to see what goes on once all the mince pies have been consumed and darkness descends. Controlled via an app, the Spy Tank has built-in night vision, an adjustable camera that can record live video and take stills and a built-in speaker to transmit audio. Images and videos can be uploaded to Facebook, YouTube and Twitter right from the app. Available for RO38.5 from brookstone.com JULY DEC0311 -- 09 18 / ISSUE 348 327

045

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Destination

Postcards from

Indoors

Y- F i

CARS

2015 Mini Cooper S 5-door Specifications: Engine: 2.0L 4 cyclinder Transmission: 6-speed semi automatic Horsepower: 189 Top speed: 230kph 0-100kph: 6.9 seconds

Although quick off the line, the new Mini Cooper S 5-door is still a long way from the car it thinks it is, says Adam Hurrell

esigned in 1957 and on sale for the first time in 1959, the original Austin Mini was a triumph for Alec Issigonis and his design team. One of the first cars to have a transverse mounted engine and front-wheel drive, it was revolutionary to say the least. The Cooper S arrived on the scene in 1963 and went on to win the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965 and again 1967. Unfortunately, the latest rendition of the Mini lacks the charm of the original. This socalled “small car” is actually rather large. The five-door car is 72mm longer in the wheelbase than the three-door. Despite this, the rear interior space is still very much lacking, causing it to struggle as a genuinely practical five-door family hatchback. The driving position is also a slight let down. There simply isn’t enough legroom or space in the footwell and I could imagine taller drivers suffering from cramp on a long trip. I couldn’t seem to get

046

DEC 11 - 17 / ISSUE 348

settled in the seat or feel secure in it. Door pocket space is also at a premium and the cabin felt rather oppressive, even with the sunroof open. It all just felt a bit un-ergonomic. Visibility is lacking both front and rear, making parking sensors essential, too. But one of the redeeming features of this new interior is the removal of the central rev counter and speedometer, which, thankfully have both been moved to their rightful position in front of the driver. The central dial now homes the car information and entertainment display, which is clear and easy to use. On the open road, the car started to feel better. I switched into Sport mode and opted for semi-automatic with manual shifts using the paddles behind the wheel. Changes were seamless and the car certainly had an impressive amount of mid-range acceleration. Taking it up and back down the twisting Al Amerat road, the car handled surprisingly well, although the front-wheel drive chassis

made itself known with hints of predictable understeer. It did feel solid, though, and the revised body and suspension set-up made the car feel very planted. The Mini has retained its go-kart like handling and I can imagine it would be great fun to drive on a country road, especially with a full manual transmission. The Mini’s biggest drawback is that it lacks the practicality of a five-door hatchback, but isn’t as fun to drive as a dedicated hot hatch. It almost seems a bit confused. Families won’t be impressed by the space – or lack of it – and other drivers looking for a hot Mini may lean towards the three-door version. The new Cooper S 5-door is a solid, premium-feeling car that has the potential to be quite fun to drive, but it is fundamentally let down by a cramped and dark interior. Adding two extra doors to an over-priced fashion accessory doesn’t let me forget the fact that there are cheaper alternatives out there.

They say: “More Mini to marvel at.” We say: “Disappointing interior.”

Sunroof Digital air conditioning Aux stereo input Customisable interior and exterior finishes Adaptive pedestrian protection system Video adaptive cruise control Multiple driving modes: Green, Mid and Sport