Y Magazine #414, March 31, 2016 by SABCO Press, Publishing and Advertising

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Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.

Fast forward

here’s no doubt about it: speed and reckless driving are major factors that contribute to Oman’s shockingly high road toll. But it seems that young men are at the centre of the issue and are being targeted by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) in a concerted campaign to make our roads safer for everybody. In our cover story this week, Y discovers that young men are more likely to be involved in or be the cause of traffic accidents in the Sultanate. Statistics from the ROP back this up, with Omani youths between the ages of 16 and 25 accounting for a staggering 31 per cent of road fatalities and 37 per cent of injuries. According to research, young drivers are more aggressive and easily distracted. Worse, young Omani drivers apparently show more risky road behaviour compared with their GCC counterparts. Road safety is a major issue in Oman – highlighted already this year by two serious bus crashes, which left a combined total of 25 dead, including young schoolchildren from Nizwa. Unless a major crackdown on reckless drivers is undertaken to halt these frightening numbers, we will continue to see more unnecessary deaths on our roads. As I’ve said before, it’s time to stop the carnage before it’s too late. Have a good week and remember – stay safe on the roads!

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contents

Features 20

MAR 31 - APR 06 2016

Your Oman 06 Coffee With Y Muntasir Shaaban Al Farsy 08 Voice Of Oman Fahmy Al Ma’awali 10 News Solar Energy Hots Up 14 Gallery The Big Show/Super Ali

15 Hyundai – Driven To Success Faisal Al Raisi

24 16 #FYI 5 Most-Expensive 26 Comic Books In The World

This Week

17 Movies Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice 18 This Week Mountain Trekking

Boy Racers WhyWe Must Put The Brakes on Reckless Young Drivers Taking The Pledge Winners Of Our Road Safety Competition Happy Days Finding Contentment

Cars and Adventures

Food and Drink 28 Food Feature Soy Beautiful 30 Taste Test Circles

38 Destination Wadi Arbaeen 40 Outdoors Taking It To The Extreme

Health and Beauty

42 Postcard From St Petersburg, Russia

32 Fashion Hello Sailor

44 Y-Fi Travel Tech

46 Car Of The Week 34 Beauty Audi A4 Plastic Surgery 35 Health Better Running

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Muntasir Shaaban al Farsy is an author, ex-civil servant and a former radio jockey. But he also has a past of deep cultural importance to Oman. Alvin Thomas finds out more

alking into City Centre Muscat, I had a very small overview of the man I was going to be meeting this week. Muntasir Shaaban al Farsy, I was told, had authored three books delving into the Sultanate’s past. So drawing on an image in my head, I approached the heart of the mall, trying to decide which coffee shop to choose as a meeting place. But then came a call from the man himself. Muntasir, it turns out, was already expecting me at Costa Coffee. Walking quickly, I prepare to apologise for my late arrival, but in an unexpected turn of events, he greets me before I can even introduce myself with a very pleasant smile and a handshake, saying: “You can call me Monty”. Settling down with our coffees, Monty unveils his prized collection – his books. But a few moments of chat reveal that the author also has quite a past himself. Born in Zanzibar to Omani parents before returning to his homeland in 1976 and settling down in what he recalls as “a peaceful Muttrah”, Monty started off in the Ministry of Defence (MoD), before retiring as a Warrant Officer (a noncommissioned officer) after 20 years of service. Both Monty’s parents were language teachers. His mother later took on the role of school treasurer, while his father became a school inspector and a translator at the MoD. Monty, now 50, recalls that his father, Shabaan Farsy, was the first Omani English teacher, working at the Jaber Bin Zayed School

MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

in Wattayah, Muscat, which made him quite a well-known around town. He became something of a media celebrity, featured in local newspapers and on television and radio talk shows in Oman. “My mother was a brilliant writer, too,” says Monty. “But I also remember that her articles never got published by the media, which made her very upset,” he adds. This, he says, was one of the reasons he decided to establish himself as a writer. His first book, Happy Platinum Jubilee to the Al Saidiya, is a fascinating account of the first government school in Oman, which opened in Muscat in 1940, and the development of education in the country. “The book on Al Saidiya School was something I enjoyed working on,” says Monty. “I conducted research online, as well as meetings and interviews with people, to extract information that you can now see in the book.” Monty’s second book, Sayyid Said The Great 1, walks the reader through generations of the Omani kingdom, and is, says the author, a polished version of his uncle Sheikh Abdullah Saleh al Farsy’s book translated from Swahili. Now that’s a familiar name, I thought. Some research later reveals that Sheikh Abdullah was one of Zanzibar’s greatest poets, historians and scholars. Monty’s third book reflects on his experience at the Holy Shrine of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. There is a fourth book in the offing, due out later this year, that focuses on Zanzibar’s schooling system, club life and dance forms before rounding off with the Zanzibar revolution of 1964. Monty, I discover, has had a pretty colourful life, as rich as the history that he writes about. He studied history and English language at Rockford University, a private

American liberal arts college in Illinois, in the United States, and then worked as a radio jockey at the Los Angeles branch of the KSL Radio station for a year. With ambitions to be an actor, he also took a course in on-camera techniques. The pull of home proved stronger, however, and he returned to Oman. When I ask if he would like to return to the US, Monty is emphatic that he’ll never leave Oman for another country again. “My life is settled in Oman,” says Monty, who now lives in Madinat Sultan Qaboos. “I stay with my wife and son, and I couldn’t ask for anything more.” Currently, he works as part of a sales team for a private company. All of his books are available at various locations in Muscat, including the Crowne Plaza Muscat hotel, WH Smith and Sultan Centre in Qurum. When asked what he would like to convey to his readers, Monty says he believes that the youth of Oman is key to a successful future for the country. “ I want the youth to remember just one thing,” he says. “Wherever you study, be it abroad or within the country, you must return home and strive hard to become successful for your country because that is what our ancestors wanted, a beautiful and prosperous Oman.” Have you got a unique story to tell or do you know someone who has? Contact us to have coffee with Y and be featured in Y Magazine. Email: editor@y-oman.com

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THE VOICE OF OMAN FAHMY AL MA’AWALI ON SEEING YOUR IDEAS THROUGH

correspondence FLAG OF PEACE

he problem with climbing mountains is that you continually descend into valleys. Similarly, the problem with ideas is that, in your head, you climb the highest peaks and once the idea is well thought of, your ego boost is immediately deflated. Some people are good at jumping into ideas while others follow a version. Some create a vision. Oman is a place where everyone can be proud of being able to originate; the problem is in the implementation. And without the means to execute it, that idea is just an electric charge jumping through your synapses, to be stored somewhere in the brain. Then, it’s nothing but hot air, ending simply in discussions and sometimes arguments that include: “That’s my idea or I want 10 per cent [how many times have we gone through that?].” Ideas are not just rhetoric. They are currency and if your currency is strong, you can actually make more currency with it. No matter how formidable your belief is, you are defined by your actions so make sure it’s from the heart and not what social expectations dictate. What is the enemy of ideas in Oman? You create a concept, you see it bloom. You work for its success and the balloon grows. One person may try and prick that balloon and more may join in, simply because they don’t know any better. Some people will often overestimate their knowledge because they may have experienced some success, but for those wary of taking the plunge, always challenge yourself. Hard times don’t last, perseverance does. I will end with a quote from a great innovator: “I don’t care that they stole my idea; I care that they don’t have any of their own.” – Nikola Tesla

NEXT WEEK:

HEATHER DUNCAN

MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

Let the flag of peace fly high I saw the birds flying gay in the sky I saw the plants moving calmly I felt the wind whooshing through my ears I saw the mighty sun gleaming in the sky But suddenly I saw children crying I saw bloodshed here and there I saw violence, the enemy of peace It changed the world into a ferocious demon Never forgotten Once we will realise When the birds are angry When there is no more happiness in this world That we should salute the flag of peace And let it fly high till it crosses the sky Lizbeth Anne Dsouza, Grade 6, Indian School Wadi Kabir

DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

“What can you do to help save the environment?” ‪‪PEREIRA F SAVIO ‬‬‪ ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪

Simple actions like reducing water and electricity consumption, reusing and recycling materials, buying local produce and using more efficient transportation can all help in the overall betterment of our environment.

‪ANTONY VETTIYAZHICKAL JOSEPH

I was a fisherman by profession back home, but I ended up as a glorified cleaner in Oman. However, I have not disappointed Mother Nature as I leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the earth, air, water, plants and animals etc are not unduly impacted by me. At sea, I took care to see the beachfront was not soiled by marine filth, and that waterways were kept

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free from rubbish. In my current job, I make every effort to clean well and take care to ensure that litter is disposed of properly. I am very careful in using the minimum amount of water and electricity. Of course, I want to do more to preserve nature but I am not empowered to do so.

‪‪MALINA GHOSH ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪‬‪

This is the time to think about our environment. The ongoing concrete jungle is the biggest threat faced by nature. So, keep clean surroundings, plant trees as much as possible and reduce the usage of wooden products. Now the time has come to take action rather than write or talk about it.

‪ADEEBA FATIMA ‪ ‬‬‪ ‬

Taking care of the Earth is not just a responsibility; it’s a privilege. Pay attention to how you use water. The little things can make a big difference. Leave your car at home. If you can stay off the road for just two days a week, you’ll reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Recycle. You can help reduce pollution just by putting that can of pop in its proper recycling bin.

SYEDA KABIR ‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

When we talk about saving our environment, most of us know that preserving forests, saving water,

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reducing pollution and recycling are some of the most important ways. On World Environment Day, different schools and organisations arrange various activities to raise awareness. But what I feel is that knowledge in itself is not enough. Now, it’s time to shift from just knowing things to applying them. I intend to do everything possible to help save my environment.

‪MOHAMMAD OSAMA RAWAT‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

It’s important for me to keep the area clean. That means planting more trees and restricting the use of synthetic/chemical fertilisers and plastic bags. It is essential that we respect nature and natural habitats in order to help save the environment.

CATHERINE BAKER ‬‪‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

To be as good as you can be at caring for our environment requires a shift in thinking. Do I need to buy this? Do I need to have the latest gadget? Can I buy food that isn’t packaged? Do I need a plastic bag for my purchases? Do I really need that light/AC/ fan/device on? If we all thought and asked ourselves those and other questions, we would begin to live in a different way and that would help to make the changes we simply MUST make in the way we live to protect our world.

M SUBBASHINI MEENAKSHI SUNDARAM ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

Instead of using my washing machine, I can wash my clothes by hand whenever I can. I can recycle the water used to clean vegetables, rice and plants and I can encourage my children to play outdoors instead of sitting in the house with their mobiles on.

MOHAN ANANDAN ‬ ‬‪‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

While not wasting water, switching off electric appliances when not required and walking shorter distances, attention must also be focused on another carbon-polluting activity: email exchanges, social network chat and streaming movies on smartphones. When we forward messages from one group to many other groups, it is adding to the CO2 count enormously. A report has said that a short email, for example, is estimated to add about four grams of CO2 equivalent into the atmosphere. Avoid being overindulgent on social media; be wiser with the digital-era explosion and save planet Earth from destruction

DEEPAK PAI ‬ ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

Save water, avoid plastic bags, use your bicycle instead of your car, grow trees, stop cutting trees and use less air conditioning.

USHA DEVI SUDDAPALLI ‬ ‬

On the conservation front, I ensure that I don’t waste a drop of water, which is, of course, a highly precious commodity in this part of the world. I have to tell my husband

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to stop running water from the tap when he shaves. Similarly, I keep an eye on my use of electricity, taking care to switch off lights that are not needed, removing plugs from sockets when not applicable and removing phone chargers from sockets when the mobile is fully charged.

WAFAA EL ANANY ‬ ‬‪‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

We can all play our part to help save the environment just by changing our daily habits. For starters, try decreasing your energy and water consumption, changing your eating and transportation habits, and adapting your home and backyard to be more environmentally friendly.

SYED BOKHARI ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

In this day and age, man has created the means for an unpleasant environment and it is up to ourselves to keep our surroundings and environment clean and fresh. We must restrict the use of chemical fertilisers and plastic bags. Instead, we should plant more trees. We should not only celebrate World Environmental Day, but also practise its policies.

INDULAL VISWANATHAN ‬ ‬‪‬‬‪

Avoid plastics, reuse and recycle waste products, plant more trees.

HAROON QAZI ‬

I will plant trees and save water.

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New Debate: “Should there be harsher penalties for unsafe driving on Oman’s roads?” Tell us on Facebook or Twitter and be in with a chance of winning dinner for two. lights, TV or other electrical appliances when not in use. Buy paper products as they break down better in the environment and don’t deplete the ozone layer as much. Ban plastic. We should save drinking water. Water is a precious component of our environment. It should never be wasted. There should be a NO deforestation policy. Each one of us should contribute towards planting at least one tree every month. Safer environmentally friendly vehicles should be used. For short distances, people should be encouraged to use bicycles or take a walk in place of motor-based vehicles. A lot of environmental problems would disappear if we stop using petroleum, coal and natural gas. The focus should entirely shift to renewable resources. The use of renewable resources of energy (for example, solar energy) would help save the environment from global warming. We should take the first step and teach our children the importance to save the environment for a better and pollution-free future.

ORLIE J. BARTOLO was spotted with his favourite Y Magazine at Barcelos Restaurant in Muscat

MERCEL ALCAREZ SENDIONG ‬

Save water, refrain from burning plastics, plant more trees and do the 3Rs – reduce, reuse and recycle.

SHIBHANGI GHOSE

Our cities have hoardings and banners all related to saving and replenishing our environment, but how many of us actually pay attention to them? We all cite Environment Day quotes on social media, but we don’t consider it mandatory to include it in our schedule. So the most important step for everybody is to follow the simple age-old rules. The rest will follow.

‪RASU JOHN‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

Saving the environment is not an issue anymore. It is a survival necessity. We all need to come together and join hands to protect what is left of our planet so that the future is not wiped out before it’s time. And we should begin right at home by reusing or recycling what we would easily throw away. We should try and conserve electricity by turning off the

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MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

NEWS

YOUR

OMAN

HOMES IN OMAN TO BE SOLAR POWERED

n what is great news for the environment, the Authority for Electricity Regulation (AER) has announced plans to introduce household solar power generation across the Sultanate. Speaking to local media, Qais al Zakwani, the executive director of the AER, said the authority aimed to have a mechanism in place by mid-year for households to install “photovoltaic” solar panels on rooftops and feed excess power to the national grid in exchange for cuts in electricity tariffs. “This year, we are working on the Solar Rooftop Project, whereby people living in Oman will be able to install solar capacity on their rooftops,” Mr al Zakwani was quoted as saying by local media. Photovoltaic (PV) cells are electric devices that convert energy from light directly into electricity. The PV cells are embedded into solar panels, giving them capacities ranging from five to 20 Kilowatts (kW). Those mounted on commercial buildings can often reach 100kW and more. A recent study conducted by the Public Authority for Electricity and Water (PAEW) found that rooftop PV systems could offer an estimated 1.4 gigawatts (GW) of electricity if installed across the

Sultanate. The PV capacity in Muscat alone is estimated at 450 megawatts (MW), equivalent to a mid-sized gas-based power plant. The new programme would initially focus on residential units, but future plans for commercial generation would also be discussed. Earlier, Hamad bin Salim al Maghdari, the chief executive of the Rural Areas Electricity Company (RAECO), expressed an interest in implementing six new renewable energy power projects with a combined capacity of 22MW this year. By promoting the use of solar power as a primary source of energy, this policy could put Oman at the forefront of Middle Eastern nations seeking to reduce their reliance on nonrenewable energy sources.

GEOLOGY TEAM DISCOVERS TWO NEW CAVES ON JEBEL AKHDAR

idden natural treasures continue to be discovered in the Sultanate, with a team of Omani and German geologists announcing they have found two magnificent new caves on Jebel Akhdar. Headed by Dr Mohammed bin Hilal al Kindi, chairman of the Omani Geology Society, the first cave, which contains a number of beautiful rock formations and is 30 metres long, was named Khasilat Heel al Diar. The second cave, Khasilat al Rowais, is 100 metres long, and was discovered with the help of a local shepherd.

010

MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

NEWS

OAMC REVEALS PLANS

FOR AIRPORT CITY

he Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) has announced ambitious plans to build a massive city around Muscat International Airport

in Seeb. Speaking at the recent Oman Economic Conference, Aimen Ahmed al Hosni, the chief executive of OAMC, said the initiative was part of the company’s five-year strategic growth plan. It aims to transform the company from its current status as a local entity to an international airport operator. “Airports are no longer mere runways for planes to land on and take off, but they are like malls for people to visit and shop,” al Hosni was quoted in local press as saying. “Our dream for the next five years is to build an entire city around Muscat Airport so people can come, live and work in this city.” Al Hosni said three zones had been identified for real estate and retail development around the

airport. These areas, he added, would overlook Al Mouj Muscat, 18th November Street and areas surrounding the existing terminal. Plans to appoint two ground-handler companies that would compete with each other were also being discussed, al Hosni said, adding

that this should enhance the quality of services offered to passengers. Al Hosni also said the OAMC was looking to operate, or potentially even own airports overseas by 2020. Expected to be finished later this year, the new Muscat International Airport will have a capacity for 12 million passengers. Meanwhile, air traffic fees for carriers flying to Oman will be hiked from tomorrow (April 1). The OAMC has already increased the airport departure tax for passengers from RO8 to RO10.

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011

YOUR

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

CLEAN SHEET

What’s this about then? It seems that the world’s oldest living land animal has never experienced the joys of bath time. Really? How many years has it been? Um, a grand total of 184 years! What animal is it? It’s a giant turtle, fondly known as Jonathan, who lives on the British island territory of St. Helena. Why bathe him now? As you can imagine, Jonathan is St. Helena’s most famous resident, so the local vet wanted him looking his best for an upcoming visit by an unknown British royal. Was it difficult? Apparently not. The vet checked with experts in a bid to ensure he was using the correct method to wash him, using surgical soap and soft brushes to prevent damage to his shell. And the verdict? He’s as clean as a whistle. However, the rings on his shell, which indicate a turtle’s age, have mysteriously worn away. Don’t say: “Let’s do it next year.” Do say: “Splish, splash, time for a bath.” 012

MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

hey inspired words of love and messages about just how great they are, so it was only fitting that they were honoured at a special

ceremony. These are the mums who our winners in our children’s Mother’s Day competition wrote about so lovingly in cards printed for them by Y, in association with Puck. Our top three winners along with their mums were presented with their cash prizes at an event in Markaz Al Bahja Mall. They also received goodie bags from Puck. Felicity Glover, Y’s Managing Editor, was there to congratulate the young winners and their mums. Nine-year-old Amita Sen, who told us how her mum cooked her nice food and was represented by her sister as she was travelling, won the first prize of RO200 cash. Second was Sara al Shamsi, collecting RO100 cash, while Fionulla Precious G. Payuyo, 14, cleverly used hashtags to describe how wonderful her mum was and won RO50 in the process. All three winning entries were also framed and given back to the participants to present to their mums as a keepsake.

A WEEK IN PICTURES

HEADLINING STORIES FROM THE REGION AND BEYOND

An EgyptAir plane flying from Alexandria to Cairo is hijacked and forced to land in Cyprus but the 56 passengers and six crew are released unharmed before the hijacker gives himself up. Police are probing his motive amid conflicting theories

Suspected terrorists and arms are seized during raids in three cities by security forces in the wake of the massive suicide bombing on Easter Sunday targeting Christians in the eastern Pakistan city of Lahore, which killed at least 72 people, 24 of them children, and injured 341 others

Residents are evacuated as a huge fire engulfs at least two residential towers in the UAE emirate of Ajman, north of Dubai, with several treated for breathing problems and minor injuries. On New Year’s Eve, a large blaze ripped through the luxury 63-storey Address Hotel in central Dubai

Almost half a million people watch rock group The Rolling Stones play an historic gig in Havana, Cuba, becoming the first major international act to perform on the island where Western rock music has been forbidden under the communist government. It followed a successful trip by American President Barack Obama, the first sitting US president to visit Cuba since the 1959 revolutions

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GALLERY

BIG IDEAS

Photos: Oman News Agency

OMAN

SUPER ALI

MORE THAN 14,000 VISITORS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE BIG SHOW, AN ANNUAL EVENT ORGANISED BY OMANEXPO SHOWCASING THE LATEST BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION AND INTERIOR DESIGNS, WHICH OPENED AT THE OMAN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE IN SEEB, MUSCAT, THIS WEEK.

OMAN’S NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM CAPTAIN AND GOALKEEPER, ALI AL HABSI, WENT BACK TO SCHOOL TO OPEN THE NEW ALL-WEATHER PITCH AT BRITISH SCHOOL MUSCAT

Photos: British School Muscat

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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

DRIVEN TO

SUCCESS

After graduating from the University of Madras in India, Faisal al Raisi returned to Oman, where he started working for a Middle Eastern telecoms company before moving to Ooredoo. In 2013, he opened his own restaurant, Sombrero, in Al Khuwair Q: What drives you to success? Passion and proving to people that everybody has something special. If one believes, one can do it. This will be, for example, for people to see how one can put in effort and do big in life. This is what helped me to open Sombrero, which is a homegrown brand/franchise.

Q: Who or what has been your inspiration in your career? My baby girl gives me more strength and power to do more. I want to give her a better life and an ability to make something new. Everyday, I try to raise the standard; to add something to myself everyday. My friends and family also give me a lot of support and inspire me.

THE EFFORTLESSNESS OF THE VEHICLE, THE CABIN AMBIENCE AND THE AESTHETIC INTERIORS ALL ADD TO THE PREMIUM EXPERIENCE

What do you think of the Genesis, the premium series of Hyundai Motor Company? The Genesis envelops you in an aura of comfort and luxury when you sit inside it. The effortlessness of the vehicle, the cabin ambience and the aesthetic interiors all add to the premium experience. As I What are your career goals? switched from the comfort My aim is to raise Omani standards in the food to the sports mode, I was and beverage sector. I want to make Sombrero the amazed by the change – number one brand to prove that this is something else the car transforms itself Oman can do well, not just oil. into a lean, mean, sporty machine and yet retains the Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 sophistication and refined years’ time? driving dynamics. This is I have a passion for travel and want to continue truly remarkable and speaks exploring new places to bring new ideas to Oman. I volumes about the cuttingalso plan to start new ventures – something related to edge technology that powers this magnificent vehicle. extreme sport in Oman.. What is your biggest career success to date? Making Sombrero a success from scratch. Being a technical guy, I have self-learned everything and put it up the way it is now. I like to take on the challenges and everyday there is something new.

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most-expensive comic books in the world

Amazing Fantasy No. 15 Price: US$1.1 million (RO423,555) Superhero: Spider-Man

Action Comics No. 1 Price: US$3.2 million (RO1.2m) Superhero: Superman

5 3 Detective Comics No. 27 Price: US$1.07 million (RO412,000) Superhero: Batman

X-Men No. 1 Price: US$492,937.50 (RO189,583) Superheroes: X Men

4 Batman No. 1 Price: US$567,625 (RO218,308) Superheroes: Batman, The Joker, Catwoman

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* Source: www.comicbookresources.com

MOVIES MOVIES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIMES, GO TO: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641

at the party. Maybe Will’s tragic past is haunting him or it’s his past coming through to warn him of impending doom. The Invitation contains a host of twists and turns, and is a must-watch for those who are not faint of heart.

The Invitation

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice What happens when Batman and Superman are pitted against each other? As it turns out, utter chaos. With a questionable storyline, tiers of humourless action and a lifeless Superman (Henry Cavill), fans are left with nothing but disappointment from Zack Snyder’s blockbuster. Of course, there’s a blizzard of CGI, and a substantial amount of twists and turns throughout. What Dawn of Justice does successfully, however, is to slip into the box office as a reaction video for its predecessor Man of Steel. It kicks off with Superman slaying General Zod across Metropolis (Washington DC) and Gotham City (New York) as a helpless Bruce Wayne/ Batman looks on. Eighteen months on and a lot of reconstructed skyscrapers later, folks want Superman, now deemed an

outsider, to be banished. Meanwhile, Batman (Ben Affleck) makes it his personal mission to take down his rival. So does Superman actually bleed? Well, a couple of shots of Kryptonite later, maybe. But you’d have to actually watch the movie for that. In that case, you’ll also be surprised to see an impressive Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), who’s on a mission to protect her identity. In the process, she has to cross paths with Batman, which makes way for some interesting conflict between the two, something we’d actually hope to see more of in the future. But at the end of the day, we’re left with a 151-minute movie, which actually feels like it. It may have grossed US$198 million (RO76.2m) on its opening day but we say (yes, painfully), stay away. Review by Alvin Thomas

P RE VI EW

10 CLOVERFIELD LANE

Promising to add a pinch of horror and mystery to this week’s action/thriller-packed box office, 10 Cloverfield Lane has fleeing Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) being taken in after a serious car accident and chained up by Howard (John Goodman). Howard insists that she’s being held hostage because the world is uninhabitable following an apocalyptic catastrophe. There’s only one problem; she’s in a cellar and has no idea what’s going on. Can Michelle try to escape? More importantly, what will she find on the outside if she does?

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

Eye In The Sky

Karyn Kusama’s psychological thriller pits Will (Logan Marshall-Green) against his ex-wife Eden (Tammy Blanchard) and her new husband David (Michiel Huisman) when he’s invited to a suspicious dinner party at their house. Will, who was estranged following the death of their son, is convinced that Eden and her new friends have a mysterious and terrifying agenda planned for him

Starring the late Alan Rickman, who died in January, this is his final screen role and a showcase for his masterful talent. He plays Lieutenant General Frank Benson in this powerful drama about a UK-based military officer Colonel Katherine Powell (Helen Mirren), who is in command of a topsecret drone operation to capture terrorists in Kenya. When a young girl enters the kill zone, the stakes are raised. A taut and timely look at modern warfare and the ethical implications of using drones, with superb performances all round. Aaron Paul also stars.

Bollywatch ROCKY HANDSOME

There’s no John Abraham without action and retribution. Therefore, in an almost mandatory course of events, watch Rocky Handsome (Yes! Handsome John, get it?) take on the role of a man bent on revenge against a bunch of rowdies who have kidnapped an eight-year-old girl (Diya Chalwad) with whom he shares a special bond. Directed by Nishikant Kamat (who also plays the lead villain), this is a remake of the Korean movie The Man from Nowhere. Shruti Haasan plays John’s pregnant love interest and while that makes way for a fairly generic plot, Abraham’s stoic countenance and physique, complemented by Nishikant’s sadistic prowess, makes way for a “handsome” action-romantic thriller.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN, just answer a question based on the week’s cinema reviews and send your answer to info@y-oman.com, along with your name and contact information. Tickets must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions, see voucher. Contact: Movie enquiries 24607360

Brought to you by

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION What role does Alan Rickman play in Eye In The Sky? LAST WEEK'S WINNER Akshatha Pudkethoor

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THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

All That Jazz Discover the magic of Al Jarreau, the US star who has released jazz, pop and R&B records across four decades, winning seven Grammys and scores of international awards. His unique style has made him one of the most exciting performers of his generation. Jarreau, 76, takes to the stage at the Royal Opera House Muscat on April 24. Tickets priced from OMR 5. For details and booking, go to rohmuscat.org.om

HEALTH WATCH

APR 24

APR

04 - 06

Learn all about the latest developments in medical tourism and healthcare at this three-day show at the Oman International Exhibition Centre, Muscat. You’ll find a host of hospital groups, medical tourism organisations and health service companies to browse around at The International Medical Tourism & Healthcare Exhibition and Conference (IMTEC) Oman 2016, the leading event of its kind in the Sultanate. Find out more at imtec-oman.com

Mountain High

THIS

Apr 01 - 02

WEEK

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

Escape the city and learn to drive mountain terrain by scaling Jebel Abyad to 1,500m above sea level with The Guide Oman. Visit historical beehive tombs, catch a glimpse of the majestic Majlis al Jinn cave and buy wild mountain za’atar before sitting back and enjoying a star-filled sky. The trip ends with a visit to Fins beach for some relaxation. Cost is OMR 40 for adults and OMR 20 for children aged seven to 12 years, which includes meals and guiding. Price does not include transport or accommodation. For families and ladies only. For details, contact Abdul Rahman on 9228 5813 or Rebecca on 9803 8820, email Rmayston@theguideoman.com

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Apr 07 - 09

Deadline

Gallery Movies LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Apr

Comic Capers If you’re a fan of popular culture, then head across the border to Dubai as the Middle East Film and Comic Con (MEFCC) returns for its fifth anniversary. More than 70,000 visitors are expected at the Dubai World Trade Centre to immerse themselves in some of the top brands in sci-fi, animation, manga, comics, collectibles and more. There will also be workshops, in which you can learn directly from leading industry professionals on topics such as low-budget short filmmaking, SFX make-up and comic book inking. For details, check out mefcc.com

The hunt is on to find budding filmmakers with the GUtech Student Film Festival. Founded by lecturer J T Heaton, who works at GUtech’s English department, the event aims to showcase Oman’s young filmmakers. Open to all college and university students across the Sultanate (including GUtech alumni), submissions are being accepted for short films/ videos of any genre and topic. Due to many requests to be part of the festival, high school students will be allowed to enter their films in the “Other Category”. The deadline for all entries is April 24 and the festival runs from May 8-12 at the Halban Campus. For full details, check out GUtech Filmfest on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.

Apr 01 - 02

Fine-Dining Spring 2016

TUESDAYS - Bella Rossini ! 5 course dinner includes 3 selected beverages and featuring LIVE MUSIC 7 pm to 12 am (RO. 19/ net per person)

THURSDAYS - LIVE MUSICAL NIGHT

THINK HARVARD Join academics, entrepreneurs and policymakers at the 11th annual Harvard Arab World Conference being held this year at the Shangri La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. A special seminar on the admission process to Harvard University will be held tomorrow (Friday) and is open to Omani high school and graduate students, from 7pm8pm. On Saturday, there will be a series of thought-provoking addresses by many of the region’s most inspiring leaders; exploring developments in the Arab world, opportunities for the new generation and topics such as technology and economics, under the conference title Innovation: Inspiring a New Arab World. The conference runs from 8am-7pm, with a closing gala dinner at 8.30pm. Go to havardarabalumni.org for full details.

SATURDAYS - SATURDAY LUNCHEON 5 course menu includes UNLIMITED BEVERAGES from 12 pm to 4:30 pm RO. 15/ net per person (Without Beverages) RO. 18/ net per person (With Beverages)

DAILY - DAILY LUNCH SPECIAL Choice of 2 4course set menu (RO 14/ & RO.12/ net per person)

Fully Licensed

Conditions Apply

Reservations: T: +968 24651066 M: 98879220 | Rossini The Cave E: rossini@fourseasonsoman.com | W: www.fourseasonsoman.com Timing: 12pm to 3pm ; 6pm to 12am / RossiniMct

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s e v i l r i e h t g ttin u p e r a s r e v ss i r e l d k e c l e a r r m i g e n h You ith t w k d s n i r a t n a n s i r G e e h t t and o ds. Ka a o r s â&#x20AC;&#x2122; n a m nO o r u gate i o i t s v e a v h n e i b s a Alvin Thom

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t the age of 18, Karim was involved in a terrible accident while riding his motorbike. He admits that he’d been “showing off ” to his friends, performing silly stunts to impress them by weaving to and fro on a road and had just straightened up when a car smashed into the side of him. It was Eid and the traffic in Al Hamra, Karim’s hometown in the Dakhiliyah region, was busy. “I don’t remember much. Just that the street was filled with blood, my blood, and it was everywhere,” says Karim. The driver of the car, a learner being taught by her husband, escaped without injury. But Karim suffered a horrendous gash to the side of his neck where the steel and glass from the car’s windscreen gored into him. After 15 days in an intensive care unit in Muscat, he was flown to Thailand for treatment to his wound and right hand, which was paralysed. “I feel lucky to be alive,” he says now. A few inches deeper and it could have been his jugular vein. Four years later, the physical scars remain; a livid lump of scar tissue on the right side of his neck is a constant reminder of that day when he came close to losing his life. You might think that Karim, now 22 and who has progressed to cars from motorbikes, would be an extra careful driver, overcautious to the extreme and zealous about road safety, after his traumatic experience. Far from it. The young Omani openly admits to being reckless on the roads; speeding up to 200kph, not using a seat belt, undertaking dangerous manoeuvres and using his smartphone at the wheel. Even more alarming is that he seems oblivious to – or refuses to acknowledge – the risks that he poses to himself and other road users by his behaviour. When asked about it, he shrugs and says: “I like to drive fast. I’m not afraid what might happen.” Even when asked to imagine a young child running into the path of his car while he’s speeding and the potential devastating consequences, he seems unmoved. Karim is the type of young, Omani male driver that the Royal Oman Police (ROP) is targeting in a concerted effort to make the Sultanate’s roads safer for everyone. And following our investigation last month into bus safety after a spate of fatal accidents, Y is this week turning its attention to the phenomenon of young drivers as we continue to campaign for safer roads in Oman. Statistically, young men are more likely to be involved in or cause traffic accidents. Young Omanis aged between 16 and 25 make up about 20 per cent of the population, yet account for more than 31 per cent of road crash-related fatalities and 37 per cent of crash-related injuries, according to ROP figures. “This over-representation of young road users in traffic crashes and fatalities is intolerable,” says a paper, “Road Traffic Injuries Among Young Drivers in Oman”, published in the Oman Medical Journal in September 2014.

Written by Hamed al Reesi, an epidemiologist at Sultan Qaboos University, and Abdullah al Maniri, director of the Road Safety Research Programme at Oman’s Research Council, they explored why young drivers exhibit such behaviour on the roads. Research shows that young drivers are aggressive and more easily distracted while driving. Young Omani drivers show higher levels of risky behaviour compared with other GCC drivers. “Young drivers are particularly influenced by whom they have interacted with and current research in Oman and overseas has identified the increasing role and importance of peers and parents on young driver behaviour,” says the report. “In particular, the current Oman-based research about young drivers is starting to uncover the seminal role of parents as both a role model and influence in promoting safe driving behaviour.” In other words, young people often copy or mirror behaviour from their parents, so bad driving can be a “learned” habit. Even more disturbing is the growing trend of underage joyriders in Oman, often leaving in their wake a trail of tragedy, debt and destruction. Mounting police evidence released in February revealed that increasing numbers of youngsters under the age of 18 are getting behind the wheels of cars, often their parents’ vehicles taken without consent. As many as 36 children in the seven to 15-year age group lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2014, while a further 834 youngsters suffered injuries. In the same year, road accidents claimed the lives of 281 young people in the 16 to 25-age group and injured 3,947 more, a staggering figure. In February this year, a teenager died after taking his father’s car for a joyride and crashing head-on into a taxi on Seeb Beach Road, just down from Y’s office, after losing control of the vehicle. The front of both cars disintegrated from the impact. The boy’s parents rushed to the scene after hearing the news. A passenger in the car survived. A relative said the young driver had stolen the key to the family’s SUV from his father’s pocket. The minimum age for granting an Omani driving licence is 17 for Omani nationals and 18 for expatriates. Stricter penalties for underage drivers, including RO50 for driving without a licence, do not seem to have perturbed the young drivers. Even the prospect of being locked up – teenagers caught driving without a licence face being jailed for 48 hours – does not seem to be a deterrent. Oman is not by any means the only GCC country facing this problem. A recent craze sweeping Saudi Arabia has seen young boys, some barely tall enough to see over the steering wheel, being filmed driving and speeding illegally. The internet is awash with videos showing the insanely dangerous stunts with boys hitting speeds of more than 144kph, incredibly sometimes with their parents sitting beside them in the passenger seat. Saudi Arabia has one of the worst traffic records in the world, where about 17 people are killed in crashes every day. Sadly, Oman is not far behind, with recent figures suggesting there are more than seven road accidents around the country every day and an overage of 56 deaths every month, meaning we also have one of the worst records for road accidents in the GCC. Police and road safety campaigners are facing an uphill battle to put the brakes on young drivers who flout the law.

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One suggestion is a Graduated Driving Licensing (GDL) programme, which gradually increases novice drivers to more complex situations and uses a three-phase system that starts with a learner licence, moves up to provisional and finally a full licence. The system was first introduced in New Zealand in 1987 and has since been extended to Australia, the United States and Canada. Bernadette Bhacker-Millard, an Omani lawyer and co-owner of Sustainability, a non-profit Omani road safety organisation, says any measure that addresses high-risk driving behaviour should be welcomed. But she adds that the argument for GDL in Oman is based on statistics that over a third of crashes involve young drivers. “This does not correlate to young drivers being responsible for over a third of deaths and injuries in crashes,” she says. “In fact, the third of young people who die or are injured in road crashes every year are as likely to be passengers in cars driven by a parent, family member or caretaker driver, or pedestrians.” Mrs Bhacker-Millard, who also created and developed the Salim and Salimah road safety education campaign in the Sultanate, believes a wider net needs to be cast. “Improving the standard of driving across all age groups should be the number one focus if Oman is to make sustained headway in reducing its road crash toll. A complete overhaul of the driver licensing system, re-training of driving instructors, retesting and rehabilitative training of older drivers is likely to be far more effective.” Other measures put forward to improve young driver safety include nighttime driving restrictions and training or retesting for repeat offenders. A retired ROP officer, who did not want to be identified for privacy reasons, believes Oman is too “soft” on young drivers, saying that European road safety standards are stricter than the Sultanate. “When I was in the police 20 years ago, we had a problem with young drivers but less than now,” he says. “I think young people aren’t afraid of their parents or police like they used to be. The uniform would mean something to them and they would respect the police. This generation is not afraid. “Driving fast is about all about showing off their strength. It’s part of a macho culture.” Y contacted the ROP to ask about its approach to young drivers, but had not received a reply at the time of going to press. Hafiz, a 23-year-old student at Modern 022

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College of Business and Science, is a case in point. A “need for speed” was embedded in his blood as a youngster. “I was exposed to expensive cars at a very young age and I used to dream of taking them to their limits,” he tells Y. As his father owns a used-car showroom, he has had ready access to an array of exotic and fast cars, including a Lamborghini. Since acquiring his licence at the age of 18, he frequently takes his cars past the 300kph mark, especially on the Al Mabela to Barka highway. Yousuf, a 24-yearold Omani who owns a local business in Al Amerat, says speeding has become a part of his daily routine. “I find the need to hit the 180kph mark essential to make it to my client meetings in Muttrah on time,” he says. Yousef, who received his licence at 19, credits his first car, a BMW 325i, for fuelling his need for speed. “I speed up in areas where there is no traffic or speed cameras as I don’t want my recklessness to put anyone in danger,” he says. Karim, the young Omani we spoke to earlier, admits that before he passed his test, he would frequently drive without a licence and took his father’s car without his consent to go joyriding. “I was driving for two years until I got my licence at 17. I would take my father’s car. He would get really angry and shout at me, but he gave up after a while because I didn’t stop. “I was caught by the police twice for driving without a licence and got fined RO50 each time.” Time, it seems, hasn’t mellowed his driving behaviour. He’s regularly fined for speeding – last month he paid out RO100 – and admits to wild overtaking and doing dangerous stunts, such as doughnuts (a manoeuvre involving spinning the rear of the car round in a circle). “I don’t use a seat belt, either,” he says.

“I don’t like it across my body as it feels too restrictive. Just last week, I got fined RO10 by the police for not wearing a belt. “When I see the police, I pull the belt across my body as if I’m wearing it and then remove it when the police have gone. “Sometimes a big part of my salary each month goes on paying fines for different things. Last month, I was fined a total of RO100 for speeding. “My parents and friends daily tell me to slow down and be more careful. “I never drive badly when someone else is in the car with me and I haven’t had an accident since the one with my motorbike.” According to Roma Fernandes, a clinical psychologist at Whispers of Serenity Clinic in Azaiba, men are generally more risk-takers, although she believes women are now prepared to gamble more. “Even after being fully aware morally about the risks of using a phone while driving, they still choose to ignore it, mostly because we are in a generation that is always on the go. There is no time to slow down and even driving is considered just another mundane and time-consuming activity,” she says. Add to this a sense of being untouchable and it’s a recipe for disaster. “There is the sense of invincibility to it as well because we tend to think that it will never happen to me,” says Ms Fernandes. “So we are easily lulled into a false sense of security and we only tend to realise the errors of our ways after a tragic accident. “All of this adds to the fact that they [young drivers] do not consider the risks they are putting themselves in as well as the risks for others.” If this is painting a bleak picture of young drivers in the Sultanate, it’s only fair to say that not all youth can be accused of reckless driving. Indeed, we spoke to several young people who are model drivers and pride themselves on their track records. Jafin, a 23-year-old student from Middle East College, considers drifting and speeding unnecessary and tailgating “haram”. “Yes, I have received four tickets since I got my licence back in 2012. But I tend to keep within the speed limit now,” he says. “Every time I feel like doing something irrational, I think about my family; I don’t know what they would do without me.” Another student, Akhil, 19, says he has been fined once for speeding and had an accident when a reckless youngster hit his car at Qurum Heights. “I cannot imagine harming another soul. I know

The current Oman-based research about young drivers is starting to uncover the seminal role of parents as both a role model and influence in promoting safe driving behaviour

THE GRADUATED DRIVING LICENSING (GDL) SYSTEM THREE-PHASED SYSTEM 1. Learner’s Licence

* Encourages novice drivers to learn under supervision * Mandates the number of hours of practice to progress to the next phase * Encourages parental involvement

2. Provisional licence

* Includes restrictions such as driving late at night * Individuals under a certain age are prohibited as passengers * Vehicle power restriction to a certain number of cylinders or a power-to-weight ratio * P plates indicating that the driver holds a provisional licence * Exit test as final step towards a full licence

3. Full Licence

that if I speed, I will eventually lose control and take someone, if not myself, out.” Speeding among young people is still on the whole gender focused. Young women are far less likely to speed or take risks. “I may have taken my vehicle past the speed limit once or twice on my way to college,” says Dhawani Shah, 23, a former student at Middle East College. “But I have never felt the need to speed my way into trouble. There are adequate restrictions imposed by the ROP and I believe the fines for speeding are appallingly high.” Perhaps a different approach is what’s needed to bring about change on our roads. The Oman Automobile Association (OAA) in Seeb has had good success with a scheme to provide a safe environment for young men to practice drifting and burn off their energy and thirst for speed out of harm’s way. One young Omani woman says the OAA has helped her 22-yearold brother channel his zeal for driving into a positive hobby. “My brother started driving when he was 13 or 14. He would take cars and drive fast. “Then he started going to the OAA and got into drifting there. He’s very good at it and goes to Dubai to take part in events. “It took his energy for cars and made it in a good way. He’s now studying to be a mechanic. “I think you cannot stop young men driving like this, but you can advise them and help them go in the right direction like my brother.” Everyone has a different theory on how to stop reckless young drivers in their tracks. From tougher penalties to providing more safe areas for youngsters to drive away from the main roads, the debate goes on. Whatever the answer, the experts seem to be in agreement that it is going to be a long and rocky road. After chatting to us about his driving and listening to the dangers, Karim proudly shows us a video of himself in a vehicle, spinning the back wheels while the brake is on as burning rubber and smoke pour out from the back. He gives a thumbs-up and heads back to his car waiting outside.

Even small differences in speed can make a big difference to the probability of death or injury. For every extra kilometre per hour of speed, you increase: ● The stopping distance ● Your risk of a crash (you have less time to react to avoid a crash by braking or swerving) ● The likelihood of serious injury or death due to impact of the crash on the vehicle, driver, passengers and pedestrians For example, in a 60kph speed zone, driving at 65kph, you face twice the risk of death or injury. At 70kph, the risk is more than quadruple the risk at 60kph Speed – kph

Risk relative to 60 kph

65 Double 70 4 times 75 11 times 80 32 times Speeding at 30kph over the limit increases by 60 times the risk of a casualty crash occurring. For pedestrians, the risks are even greater. A person hit by a car travelling at 40kph has a 75 per cent chance of surviving. Hit at 60kph the pedestrian’s odds of survival drop dramatically to 15 per cent. The faster you go, the further you travel before you stop. The average driver takes about 1.5 seconds to react once he or she has spotted a hazard. An increase of 10-15kph can mean the difference between life and death. * Source: Salim and Salimah

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O A A

e g d e l P e h Take T

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O A A

petition to help m o c ’s Y f o rs e n in The w s are revealed d a ro ‫ﻟﻠﺳﻳﺎﺭﺍﺕ‬ ‫ﻣﺎﻧﻳﺔ‬ ‫ ﺍﻟ ُﻌ‬m ‫ﺍﻟﺟﻣﻌﻳﺔ‬ ’s n a O n o improve safety

Oman Automobile Association

2nd Pr

ize: Dura Ver y well Yousuf, a d o n e , Dura ge 7 hear tfelt m essage – a ! We loved your sim nd p cute! You the picture of you le but win RO7 w a s ve r y 5 cash. , age 10 1st Prize: Abeed Rahman bile phones while

ing mo Congratulations, Abeed! Us you even came up with and m ble pro driving is a big RO100 cash. your own motto. You win

xperts believe that one way to tackle Oman’s road accident record is to catch future drivers when they’re young. Educating our youngsters about road safety and good driving behaviour can lay the foundation for a new generation of safe drivers. Which is why Y’s competition to encourage children about safe driving is so important for our future generations. With accidents on the roads of Oman reaching alarming levels – there were 382 road accidents in January this year alone, killing 58 and injuring 237, statistics revealed this week – there’s never been a better time to start making a change. Sponsored by the Oman Automobile Association, we asked children to make their own Road Safety Pledge to promote road safety awareness. Even better, we also got their parents to make a pledge to ensure that the whole family was involved in making Oman’s roads safer for all of us.

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Our junior road safety warriors answered the call to arms as cards came flooding in from across Muscat and beyond. There were a range of pledges, from promising to wear a seatbelt at all times to not jumping around the car or distracting mum or dad while they were driving. Some got very creative with their own drawings, while others had a simple but very effective message. It was a hard job to whittle down the entries to just three winners, who share a total of RO225 in cash prizes. “Congratulations to our winners and thanks to everyone who took part,” says Felicity Glover, Y’s Managing Editor. “It’s great to see so many children and parents thinking about the important issue of road safety. We can all play our part and together can make a difference.” Our three winners will receive their prizes at a special ceremony at the Oman Automobile Association in Seeb, Muscat, today (March 31).

3rd Prize: Tejashree G Prabhu, age 7 Good job, Tejashree . Life is indeed a gift and we hope your pledge also makes others think. You win RO50 cash.

Not everyone can be a winner but here’s the best of the rest that made our shortlist:

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re you living your happiest life? How does your mood affect your health? Is contentment contagious? Researchers are finding these questions are worth asking, and multiple studies have shown that happiness dramatically improves health, productivity, family bonds and even life expectancy. So it’s no surprise that the impact good spirits have on people has spawned an initiative to spread cheeriness around the world, including Oman and its GCC neighbours. In fact, happiness is so important in the UAE that the government last month announced that Ohood bint Khalfan al Roumi had been appointed as the country’s first happiness minister. Announcing the appointment, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, tweeted: “A new post, Minister of State for Happiness, will align and drive government policy to create social good and satisfaction. “Happiness in our nation is not a wish … but there will be plans, projects and programs and indicators … and it will be part of the work of all our ministries … and a part of our way of life,” he said in another tweet, which went viral. According to the 2015 World Happiness Report, which ranks 156 countries by their happiness levels, the UAE came in at number 20, closely followed by Oman at 22. There’s no doubt that Oman is a happy country, boosted by the fact that it is a stable country, and we have a good-quality life. But what can you do to live your

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The stress of our daily lives can take a toll, but peace of mind need not come at a price. Here are some tips for finding a way to well-being

happiest life? Researchers say it starts with choosing happiness. Making a conscious choice to be happy positively affects a person’s mood and, over time, can reset a person’s default happiness level, according to two recent studies published in The Journal of Positive Psychology, a bi-monthly academic journal published in the United States. Here are several ways one can choose to be happy: Savour happy moments, in the moment. An individual’s brain is hardwired to remember unfortunate experiences more than pleasant ones as a basis for survival. When something good happens, stopping to relish that moment helps to solidify it in the brain and re-wire it for happiness, according to Rick Hanson, a neuropsychologist and author of Hardwiring Happiness.

Connect with happy people To be happy, spend some time with happy people. It may seem like common sense, but researchers from Harvard University, in the US, found that over the course of a 20-year study, the happiness of one person can increase the contentment of others in their network by 25 per cent. Anna Gardiner, a media consultant and resident of Muscat, says she tries to socialise with naturally happy people. And while she recognises that not every minute of every day will be happy, she says it helps to be positive. “Of course, we all have our trials and tribulations, but I think a positive attitude helps in the way we handle hurdles and challenges,” she says. “And they do say that laughter is the best medicine, so finding like-minded people who you genuinely enjoy being with also helps your state of mind. If you are always with negative people who constantly complain, that can definitely change your mood and attitude towards life.”

Choose experiences over things The value of new life experiences also creates happiness. That’s the finding of some research from San Francisco State University, which shows that having a new life experience outweighs material purchases when it comes to long-term impact on happiness. New life experiences don’t have to be expensive trips to exotic locations; they can be as simple as taking a dance class, mastering a cooking skill, trying a new food or learning how to speak another language. Exercise Hitting the road or the weights can turn a bad day into a good one. Research from the University of Bristol, in the United Kingdom, has shown that exercising on workdays can have an even bigger impact on mood. It’s because exercising releases endorphins that have a powerful effect on happiness. Going for a walk or hike outside has the added benefit of sunshine and fresh air, too. For an even more powerful happiness boost, finding an exercise buddy can be the way to go. * BPT

16. Brazil 17. Luxembourg 18. Ireland 19. Belgium 20. United Arab Emirates 21. United Kingdom 22. Oman 23. Venezuela 24. Singapore 25. Panama MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

Source: 2015 World Happiness Report

1. Switzerland 2. Iceland 3. Denmark 4. Norway 5. Canada

6. Finland 7. Netherlands 8. Sweden 9. New Zealand 10. Australia 11. Israel 12. Costa Rica 13. Austria 14. Mexico 15. United States

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FOOD AND DRINK

Trend

New Restaurant

HEALTH KICK

From mains to desserts, soy is a versatile, healthy ingredient that is sure to add variety to family mealtimes.

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Reviews

SAY IT ISN’T SOY Whether you’re looking to scale back on animal products or simply want to add some variety to your recipe repertoire, soy may be the solution

oy is the only plant with protein comparable to meat, eggs and dairy, and it provides health benefits, including heart, muscle and bone strength. It is also the only protein recognised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States for its role in reducing cholesterol and risk of heart disease. If you’re uncertain how to cook with soy, you may be surprised by the diverse ways you can incorporate this nutrient-rich food into your meals and snacks. As these recipes show, it’s easy to cook with soy throughout the day, from fluffy breakfast pancakes to a fresh take on hummus or a delicious tofu dinner loaded with flavour. In addition to the nutrition benefits and versatility, soy uses fewer natural resources, such as water and land, than any other protein source so you can feel good about making it a star ingredient in your kitchen. Find more recipes and inspiring ideas for cooking with soy at soyfoods.org. * Family Features

Lemon Blueberry Pancakes (Courtesy of Silk) Serves: 6 Ingredients: § 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour § 2 tsp baking powder § 1 tsp egg replacer § 1/4 tsp salt § pinch of ground nutmeg § 1 1/2 cups plain soy yogurt alternative § 1/4 cup vegetable oil § 2 tbsp granulated sugar § 1 tbsp lemon juice § 2 tbsp finely grated lemon zest § 2 tbsp vanilla extract § 1 1/2 cups blueberries § maple syrup Method: § Whisk together flour, baking powder, egg replacer, salt and nutmeg. Set aside. § In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt alternative, two tablespoons of oil, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and vanilla. Stir into the flour mixture until just combined (batter will be lumpy). Let stand for 15 minutes. § Heat a large, non-stick pan over a medium heat. Brush with the remaining oil. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake into the pan, leaving some space between each pancake. Add one tablespoon of blueberries to each pancake. § Cook in batches for about two minutes or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for one to two minutes or until golden brown and set in the centre. Wipe the pan between batches. Store the prepared pancakes in a warm oven until ready to serve. § Serve pancakes with the remaining blueberries and maple syrup.

Grilled Balsamic Tofu with Cauliflower Coriander Rice and Avocado (Courtesy of House Foods) Serves: 4 Ingredients: § 1 packet firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed well § 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar § 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil § salt and pepper, to taste § 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated § 1 bunch coriander, roughly chopped § 1 avocado, sliced Sriracha Mayo § 2 tbsp reduced fat mayonnaise § 1/2 tsp lime juice § 1/2 tsp Sriracha sauce § 1/4 tsp minced garlic or garlic paste Method: § Slice the tofu into half-inch slices and set aside. In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Pour over the tofu and marinate for 20 minutes. § Meanwhile, mix together all the ingredients for the sriracha mayo. § Grill the marinated tofu for three minutes on each side. § In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower and the coriander. Separate the mixture into four serving bowls. § Top with the grilled tofu and sliced avocado. Serve with the sriracha mayo.

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FOOD AND DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

al u s Ca ning Di

REVIEWS

Info Box

CIRCLES POOLSIDE CAFE

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Opening Hours: Daily 10am-7pm Lunch and drinks for three: RO34.1

FULL CIRCLE

Verdict : 8 / 10 Service 7 / 10 Food 8 / 10 Ambience A relaxing spot that serves up tasty food and goodsized portions Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

RAVENOUS AFTER A LONG DRIVE AND WALK AROUND YITI, FELICITY GLOVER FINDS CIRCLES HITS THE SPOT, GIVING HER ENOUGH ENERGY TO CONTINUE EXPLORING THE AREA

t had been a busy morning. With a friend from Abu Dhabi in town wanting to see some of the sights, we had our hearts set on the mountains. But I was also test-driving a car for another story and it was an all-wheel drive rather than a 4x4. Not wanting to take any risks with Lincoln’s latest MKX, we compromised and headed down to Yiti and beyond to do some exploring – by car and on foot. At least, we decided, we’d still be driving through mountains (albeit without the more extreme gradient of Jebel Akhdar to deal with), while there was the added bonus of being on the coast. Loaded up with plenty of water, but no sustenance, we set off and after a few hours of exploring beaches and picturesque fishing villages, we suddenly realised it was mid-afternoon and we were ravenous. With no F&B options in sight, except for trying our hand at a spot of fishing, the only nearby place I could think of was one of the cafes at the Shangri-la Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. It didn’t take much to convince the two Cs – Charlie, our friend, and Cia, my daughter – that this was the best option available. It also helped that they looked like they could eat the leg off a table. Yep, they said they were that hungry!

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We weren’t looking for anything fancy – just something that was tasty, nutritious and filling, so opted for Circles, the hotel’s poolside café. It seemed we weren’t the only ones having a late lunch – Circles was buzzing with diners, all of whom where tucking into the likes of burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, satays and salads. We were quickly seated near the service area, but found this was too noisy thanks to the busy whir of a few overworked blenders as diners ordered a range of smoothies and mocktails. Our request to move to the other side of the café, by the pool, was quickly solved by the helpful wait staff. Seated at our new table, we quickly ordered – a well-done cheeseburger for Miss Cia, a quattro stagioni pizza for Charlie and the mezzeh combo for me. The adults stuck to sparkling water, while Cia went for the banana cinnamon smoothie. Our meal arrived fairly quickly – and it was easy to see that Cia would struggle to eat the massive cheeseburger, which she had to tackle with a knife and fork. It came with a side of French fries, coleslaw and a small salad. The meat was juicy despite being well done, while it had a slight smoky flavour, making us wonder if it was flame grilled. Charlie gave the thumbs up to the pizza, which was topped with tomato, mozzarella, turkey ham, artichokes, peppers, olives and mushrooms. He said it had a thin, crispy base (his favourite) and that the star ingredient was the turkey ham, followed closely by the olives. My mezzeh combo was light and delicious. The hummus was creamy and smooth and paired

perfectly with the fresh, tangy tabbouleh, while the deep, smoky babaganoush was tempered by the sweet pop of pomegranate seeds and crunch of diced red and green peppers. The pickled vegetables were a more-ish selection of salty and vinegary bite-size morsels that complemented the whole dish. Cia waved the white flag three quarters into the burger, stating that she needed to leave room for the fries and her smoothie, which she declared was delicious. Charlie polished off the pizza in no time and even added his own topping to the last slice of the turkey ham portion – a dollop of Cia’s forgotten coleslaw. I’m not quite sure about that choice, but each to their own, as they say. There was a small dessert menu – fruit kebabs, a trio of sorbets, what appeared to be a decadent chocolate walnut brownie and a banana split. But we’d had our fill and were keen to get back to exploring, this time around Muttrah and the Corniche. All in all, it was a great lunch. It was just a shame we couldn’t relax on the deckchairs afterwards! Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com

HEALTH& BEAUTY

SAIL AWAY

With thousands of kilometres of coastline in Oman, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing better than kicking back and relaxing on a boat. Stay effortlessly cool in these outfits, such as with this look from Heatons.

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

k o o L e h

licity e F , reet t s igh ok h e A polo shirt from M&S is a must-have to th t the lo essential in any sailorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wardrobe and d n e e g can be dressed up or down depending h o ig ou t h on the occasion. From RO13 e y th lps m Fro ver he Glo

T t Ge

Sunglasses are a must in Oman and this Wayfarer-style pair from River Island should help to protect your eyes from the glare bouncing off the water. From RO6.5

Perfect for boating, these H&M knee-length beige cargo shorts will not only help you to stay cool, but also look the part. From RO13.5 The quality of your accessories can make or break an outfit, but this brown leather belt from Next should fit the bill. From RO11.9

These khaki chino shorts from Matalan would look great teamed with a baggy checked shirt and a pair of deck shoes. From RO7.6

Stash everything you need for a day on the water into this rugged John Rocha washed canvas backpack. From RO24.4

An enduring classic, these twotoned deck shoes from Dune will give you plenty of traction on board. From RO37.5

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BEAUTY

Health Fashion How to choose 2hospital? the right

Choosing a hospital depends on the following factors: ● Hospital's reputation and management ● The level of experience and efficiency of the medical staff ● The equipment and resources available, including medical devices, pharmacy and radiology units ● The location

Are there 3complications any specific

When and where to opt for plastic surgery can be tricky. Here, a leading expert offers some tips

veryone wants to look as good as they can. However, when considering whether or not to have a nip or a tuck or more, other reasons come into play, according to Dr Abdulbaqi Alkhatib, a plastic surgery consultant at Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi. Some of the factors, says Dr Alkhatib, can include: ● Professional reasons, which is often the case with actresses and television presenters ● Dissatisfaction with one’s appearance as a result of several pregnancies ● Media coverage. The media can play a key role in promoting plastic surgery, and advertisements can often misrepresent what results can be achieved, reflecting negatively on people’s expectations ● The influence of friends and relatives

SCAN OUR QR CODES WITH ANY QR READER APP

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Dr Alkhatib offers the following tips for those considering plastic surgery:

How to choose the right plastic surgeon?

Choosing the right surgeon usually depends on their level of experience and efficiency, reputation, professional ethics and the success rate of the operations they have performed. In fact, doctors in other fields of expertise may also play an important role in assessing plastic surgeons and recommending them to their patients.

incurred in plastic surgery as a speciality? If so, what are they?

Plastic surgery is no exception when it comes to the surgical complications that other medical procedures may have. The successful plastic surgeon is one who can avoid these before they occur and also ensure the patient’s health is well enough to undergo the surgery and general anaesthesia.

What tips would you give to 4surgery? people who are considering plastic ● Maintain a healthy lifestyle constantly. For example, avoid smoking ● Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy diet ● Have realistic expectations as cosmetic procedures are meant to improve the appearance rather than strive for perfection

What 5would advice you

offer to less experienced plastic surgeons? ● It’s important that they don’t risk performing complicated surgeries that

exceed their abilities ● Ensure the patient’s overall health is well enough to undergo surgery ● Provide the patient with a detailed and clear description of the nature of the surgery to be performed and its side effects ● Be professional, and maintain the ethics of the profession at all times

Running can be rewarding, but it’s easy to fall into a routine that becomes boring. Try these tips to get you back into the fitness groove

ave you ever wished you could just snap your fingers and be able to run a marathon? If only it were that easy. Whether you are training for a race, want to get in shape or simply enjoy the rhythm of your feet hitting the pavement, running takes consistency and practice. “No matter where you fall on the running spectrum, there's always room for improvement,” says Rebekah Mayer, National Run Training Manager for Life Time Fitness – The Healthy Way of Life Company. “If you're striving to become a better runner, you might need to make some changes or switch up your routine.” Below are five tips from Mayer to help amp up your run so you can feel great while making each workout count:

Ease into your outdoor runs

If you’ve been hitting the treadmill and are just beginning to run outdoors, take it slow. Pavement is harder on your knees and joints than a treadmill belt, and your running form is a little different when you’re outside on the ground. Start by taking some easy workouts outdoors and then progress into harder workouts. By then, all the trails will be fully clear and your legs will have a chance to adapt.

Ditch the background noise

Consider leaving your headphones at home. While music is essential to beat boredom on a treadmill, many runners come to enjoy the quiet solitude or group chatter when running outdoors, especially when you run with a friend. Without headphones, it's also easier to hear traffic, animals or approaching pedestrians. If music is absolutely necessary, try running with only one ear bud in.

Make it memorable

Take the time to make some of your runs a little more interesting. Is there a good running location a short drive from your home or nearest health club? Even if it doesn’t fit into your daily routine, doing some runs at a more scenic location every so often can make the miles much more enjoyable. Changing up your routine also helps keep your body challenged so you can continue to build strength and endurance.

Gather your running buddies

Running with friends is one of the best ways to stay motivated. Running with a buddy on a treadmill is fun as well, but an outdoor running pal or group can help the time and kilomtres pass more quickly. There's nothing like good conversation to keep you entertained during your workout. Running partners can be good pace setters as well and might even suggest some new running routes or trails you've never tried before.

Dress the part

If you run in the dark, choose reflective clothing and a headlamp for safety. On those occasional rainy days in the Sultanate, add a water-resistant jacket and a cap to keep water out of your eyes. This will make the weather more tolerable. If temperatures are cool, choose an outer layer you can easily remove if you get too warm. Life Time is a firm believer that the right pair of shoes can help prevent injury, so make sure you find a pair that works for your running style. Use these tips to make the most of each run or check out lifetimerun.com to sign up for a virtual training plan. * BPT

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GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE GET YOUR FREE COPY OF Y AT THE FOLLOWING DISTRIBUTION POINTS… Capital Region Azaiba • Amara Dermatology Clinic • Audi showroom • Bentley showroom • Costa Coffee • Al Fair • Jaguar Showroom • Jeep Showroom • Al Maha Petrol Station • Mazda showroom • McDonald’s • Mitsubishi Showroom • Oman Arab Bank • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Peugeot Showroom • Range Rover Showroom • Sayarti Auto Care • Shell Select • Skoda Showroom • The Sultan Center • Volkswagen showroom • Volvo Showroom • Yamaha Showroom Bawshar • College of Banking and Financial Studies • Dolphin Village • Modern College of Business and Science • Muscat College • Muscat Private Hospital (Emergency and Outpatients) • Oman Medical College CBD • Al Maya Hypermarket • Alizz Islamic Bank • Bahwan Travel Agencies • Bank Sohar • Copper Chimney Restaurant • Costa Coffee • HSBC • Lama Polyclinic • NBO • Oman Arab Bank • Standard Chartered Bank • Woodlands Restaurant Darsait • Indian Social Club • Khimji’s Mart

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KIMS Oman Hospital • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Bakery • Shell Petrol Station Al Falaj/Rex Road • Al Falaj Hotel • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Golden Oryx Restaurant • Kamat Restaurant • Toshiba Showroom Ghala • National Mineral Water Ghubra • Al Hayat International Hospital • Al Maya Hypermarket • Bank of Beirut • Costa Coffee • Crêpe Café • GMC Showroom • LuLu Hypermarket • Moka & More • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Park Inn • Porsche Showroom • Al Raffah Hospital • Stationery Hut • The Chedi Muscat Al Hail • Burger King • Caledonian College of Engineering • Markaz Al Bahja Mall • McDonald’s • Omantel • Starcare Hospital Al Khoudh • Al Fair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Pizza Hut Al Khuwair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Bait Al Reem Mall • Caffè Vergnano • Centrepoint (Splash) • Diplomatic Club • Grand Hyatt Muscat • Harley-Davidson Showroom • HSBC • KFC • Khimji’s Mart • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Landmark Group

• • •

McDonald’s Muscat Bakery Oman Bowling Center • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Oman United Insurance • Omran • Pizza Hut • Radisson Blu • Shell Petrol Station • TGI Friday’s • The Great Kabab Factory • The Tikka Place • Zahara Travel • Zakher Mall Mabela • Gulf College Oman Mawalah • Chili’s Restaurant • Costa Coffee • Al Makan Café • The Noodle House • Starbucks • Tim Hortons • VLCC Wellness MBD • Bank Dhofar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Khimji’s Mart • NBO • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Pizza Hut • Pizza Muscat • Shell Petrol Station MGM • Caribou Coffee • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • Just Falafel • Ooredoo • Paul • Tim Hortons Al Mina • Bait Al Baranda • Bait Al Zubair MQ • Al Fair • Arab Open University • British Council • Costa Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • Hana’s Slimming & Skincare Centre • Kargeen Caffe • KFC • MacKenzies Café & Deli • Mood Café • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Papa John’s Pizza

• •

Pizza Hut Saharz Beauty Salon • Starbucks Al Murtafa’a • Bank Muscat • KFC • Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club Muscat International Airport • Caribou Coffee • Majan Lounge • Plaza Premium Lounge Mussanah • Millennium Resort Muttrah • Shell Petrol Station Qantab • Al Bustan Palace • Marina Bandar Al Rowdha • Oman Dive Center • Shangri-La Qurum • Al Araimi Complex • Balance Health & Fitness • Bank Nizwa • BMW showroom • Burger King • Chili’s Restaurant • Crowne Plaza • Finland Eye Center • Fun Zone • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • The Jungle Restaurant • Left Bank • McDonald’s • Mercedes-Benz Showroom • Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant • Nandos • Nissan Showroom • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Pizza Hut • Qurum Commercial Complex • Ras Al Hamra Club • SABCO Centre • Second Cup • Starbucks • The Sultan Center • Tche Tche Café Rusayl • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -1 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -2 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -3

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Knowledge Oasis Muscat -4 (ITA) • Middle East College • Omantel • Waljat College of Applied Sciences Ruwi • Apollo Medical Centre • Kamat Restaurant • KFC • Khimji’s Mega Store – Swarovski Showroom • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Oman Air • Oman UAE Exchange • Oman Trading Establishment • Saravana Bhavan Sarooj • Al Fair • Al Masa Mall • City Cinema • Ayana Spa • Cosmeclic • Emirates Medical Center • McDonald’s • Shell Petrol Station • VLCC Wellness Sawadi • Al Sawadi Beach Resort Seeb • Golden Tulip Hotel • McDonald’s Shatti Al Qurum • Bareeq Al Shatti Complex • Caribou Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • German Eye Centre • The Indus Restaurant • InterContinental Hotel Muscat • Jawharat Al Shatti Complex • Kaya Skin Clinic • Muscat Eye Laser Center • Oasis By The Sea • Second Cup • Starbucks • VLCC Wellness Sifah • Sifawy Boutique Hotel SQU • Diplomatic Club • College of Economics and

Political Science Students Banking Area • Reception/ Canteen Wadi Kabir • Al Maya Hypermarket • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Pharmacy • National Hospitality Institute • Pizza Hut • Shell Petrol Station Wattayah • Ahli Bank • Best cars • BLS International Services • Chevorlet/GM showroom • Ford Showroom • Hatat House • Honda Showroom • Hyundai showroom • Kia Showroom • Lexus Showroom • National Travel & Tourism • Passage To India Restaurant • Shell Petrol Station • Subaru showroom • Suzuki Showroom • Toyota Showroom The Wave • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • The Wave Head Office •

Other Regions Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • LuLu Hypermarket Nizwa • University of Nizwa Sohar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Markets • Ooredoo • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port and Freezone • Sohar University

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Postcards from

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Outdoors

Y- F i

Cars

HIDDEN GEM

Just a short drive from Muscat, Wadi Arbaeen is a perfect spot for exploring, meeting the local wildlife and cooling off under a waterfall.

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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

Outdoors

Destination

WADI ARBAEEN

MAKING HIS FIRST TRIP TO WADI ARBAEEN, SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI SETS OUT TO CAPTURE ITS HIDDEN SIDE 038

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Cars

HOW TO GET THERE

TRAVEL GUIDE

hile I’ve seen plenty of pictures of Wadi Arbaeen, I’m slightly embarrassed to say that I had never been myself; something I set about rectifying recently. The wadi always looks beautiful in photos, but I was determined to capture something a bit different and kept my eye out for the smaller details you wouldn’t necessarily notice straight away. I was visiting with a friend who had been before so finding the wadi was not a problem. In fact, it’s well signposted as you travel down Route 17, so getting lost shouldn’t be on the agenda for anyone. As you turn off Route 17 you travel along a wide, new road until it gives way to a dirt track. One of the first things I saw as we made our way towards the wadi were two smooth rocks with a plant growing in between them. I called the scene “The Impossible” and it reminded me that no matter how barren the conditions or bleak the surroundings, nature always finds a way to thrive. Shortly afterwards, we came to a T-junction, with Wadi Arbaeen signposted to the left and a place called Mazare to the right. My path led to the left and while I did take the right turn later in the day and made some fascinating finds, you’ll have to wait until next week for that story. It was 8 o’clock in the morning when we arrived at the wadi, which meant we had the amazing, untouched beauty almost entirely to ourselves, sharing it with only a handful of local farmers and some friendly wildlife, including donkeys and goats. We had barely been at the wadi for 10 minutes and already I was loving the experience. I was awestruck by the natural rock formations, and took a few close-up shots before venturing into a small cave and attaching my fish-eye lens

From Muscat, travel on Route 17 for 120km and then exit right. Follow the road until it turns to a dirt track. When you reach a T-junction, take a left turn, following the sign to Wadi Arbaeen.

GPS location of Wadi Arbaeen: N23° 2’ 42.665” E58° 59’ 2.582”

to capture the entire scene the best I could. Further into Wadi Arbaeen, we stumbled across a couple of small waterfalls and I set about documenting them from a very low angle. Altering my shutter speed to capture the effect of motion as the water flowed over rocks and through sprigs of vegetation, I was quite pleased with how the photos turned out. It’s too hard to pick a favourite image because I like them all so much. I think the wadi would make a great place to visit with friends and stay overnight, providing there is no rain forecast, of course. It’s also the perfect location for a day trip because of its relatively close proximity to Muscat. You can go for a great walk and explore the surrounding mountains if the weather is nice. Soon it will be getting too hot to do this, though, so you’ll have to be quick about it. As we were leaving Wadi Arbaeen, around 11am, we started to notice a few more cars arriving as the tourists rolled in. By this time, however, we’d already explored much of what the stunning wadi had to offer and were ready to move on to the next adventure.

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

Sailing fan Heather Duncan finds out why one of the world’s most thrilling nautical challenges is worth cherishing

ven landlubbers love it. As spectators are treated to a scintillating shimmer of ocean spray, the salty tang of the sea assaulting my nostrils has never been quite so appealing. Muscat has become a must for the maritime marvel that is the Extreme Sailing series. Oman’s capital is the curtain-raiser for the eight-part inshore competition that brings catamaran racing to cities around the world. This is the 10th year of the ESS and every year it grows in popularity. The global event, while less well-known than the America’s Cup, has rejuvenated sailing as a sport and as a pulse-racing phenomenon. With its high speeds, near misses and masterful manoeuvres, it’s a must-see in Oman’s sporting calendar. While diehard yachties will tell you that, strictly speaking, a catamaran is a twin-hulled vessel, for the uninitiated, the series of pulsating, high-level races with some of the most experienced sailors around gives sports fans an adrenalin rush that’s hard to beat. And this year, Oman Air’s team triumphed with a resounding win on their home waters. A series of sizzling performances thrilled their home crowd and left skipper Morgan Larson and his crew buoyed with confidence for the next leg in China. The team, which includes Pete Greenhalgh, James Wierzbowski, Ed Smyth and Omani national Nasser al Mashari, won more than half of the 19 races sailed, more than any other team in the history of the series. Undoubtedly, their efforts were helped by this year’s introduction of the flying GC32 vessel. The ultra-light, hydro-foiling catamaran has unique J-foils underneath that work much like an aeroplane wing to lift the hulls out of the water, reducing drag and rapidly increasing speed. As I arrived at the event, held recently at Al Mouj, on the second day

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Postcards from -

of four days of racing, the weather conditions were perfect for leisurely boat cruising. There was little wind and glassy smooth seas, hardly ideal for a day of intense, competitive sailing. As a result, racing was delayed while the weather conditions were being assessed. My original plan was to be on board during an actual race, something I have done twice before and loved both times. Instead, I had the privilege to board the British Land Rover BAR Academy team’s boat during their final race preparations. The team was the youngest in the fleet this year, were mentored by members of Sir Ben Ainslie’s America’s Cup sailing team and skippered by Bleddyn Mon. I have been on board the previous catamarans used, the Extreme 40s, but what struck me immediately was how much smaller the GC32 was. It was 2.4m shorter in length; a positive flying machine, compared to its predecessor. Climbing on board I met the skipper, Bleddyn. “It is one of our favourite locations in the series,” he says of Muscat. “Everyone on the team has been performing really well and the experience they’re gaining in such a short period of time is huge.” Muscat is one of the crew’s favourite locations in the series. Their first day of racing took place in the waters off Muttrah Old Town with its picturesque backdrop and strong winds making for perfect sailing conditions. Bleddyn explains his role in the five-strong team and the roles of each crew member. To the untrained eye, the deck looks like a tangle of brightly coloured ropes, but he describes it as “organised chaos”, and everyone had their designated roles and responsibilities to keep everything sailing smoothly. During the hectic action of the races with hulls out of the water, Bleddyn says that man overboard situations are entirely possible, with the boats turning so fast a wrong foot placement can result in a team member taking an unexpected dip in the ocean. With a race to win, the boat has to continue without the crew member and whoever has fallen aside will remain in the water until the safety boat can collect him. These catamarans are double-hulled vessels with a nylon rope mesh “trampoline” strung in between. This acts as a deck to stand on. The water laps below your feet as you stand on the ropes. As we listen to the details of the boat and the competition, a man suddenly appears in the water below my feet wearing only shorts and a snorkel, not what I expected to see. I was told that this was another crew member completing some final maintenance to the hull before that afternoon’s racing, and there was only one way to check underneath. He didn’t seem to find anything, but it was a lovely day for a swim. After this stage in Muscat, the competition moves to Qingdao, China, from April 29 to May 2 for stage two of the eight-part tour. Stage three will take them to the UK.

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EXTREME SAILING SERIES 2016 FACT BOX:

8 teams competing in 8 locations across 3 continents, beginning in Muscat - 87 sailors with 31 Olympic campaigns between them - Sailors from 17 nations around the world - Average course length is 2.64km - Top speeds of about 39 knots – the equivalent of putting your head out the car window in the rain at 83kph

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TREASURE DOME

The Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood is a colourful and stunning reminder of the city’s heritage, where classical music and ballet reign supreme.

TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO: 1. Visit the Peter and Paul Fortress 2. Visit the Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood and the nearby St Isaac’s Cathedral 3. Ride the St Petersburg Metro 4. Catch a concert at the Leningrad Philharmonic Hall 5. Visit the Peterhof Palace, about an hour’s drive outside St Petersburg

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POSTCARDS FROM

Andrew Barrow recommends

ST PETERSBURG, RUSSIA

PETER

hink Russia; the Kremlin, the KGB and St Basil’s Cathedral. But as is so often the case, a country’s s e c o n d c i t y c a n b e t h e m o r e a l l u r i n g fo r a t a s t e r o f its myriad historical and artistic treasures, and its people. S o i n s t e a d o f M o s c o w , fo r m e i t ’ s S t P e t e r s b u r g , h o m e o f t h e Kirov Ballet, Shostakovich, Dostoyevsky and the birthplace of one Vladimir Putin. It’s a port city with a commanding o v e r v i e w o f t h e B a l t i c S e a a n d w a s fo u n d e d b y P e t e r t h e Great in 1703. The tsar liked a bit of travelling and had been so impressed by Europe’s grand cities, he decided that Russia w a s m i s s i n g o u t . T h e r e fo r e , h e s p a r e d n o e x p e n s e i n c r e a t i n g t h e c i t y t h a t b e c a m e t h e c o u n t r y ’ s i m p e r i a l c a p i t a l fo r t w o centuries. Few cities have undergone as many name changes as St Petersburg. In 1914, it was renamed Petrograd and in 1924, became Leningrad, reverting to its original name in 1991. During World War Two, the siege of Leningrad was one of the longest and costliest in history, beginning on September 8 1941, when the last road to the city was severed with the blockade finally being lifted 872 days later. In modern times, only the siege of Sarajevo in the Bosnian War of 1992-1995 is longer.

AND PA UL FOR TR

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PALACE

My favourite place

Although St Petersburg is awash with palaces and museums, it is the churches that really do it for me. My favourite is The Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, built between 1883 and 1907 and erected on the site of the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. Like many Orthodox churches, it illuminates the most magnificent hues of every possible shade while exuding a lavish opulence.

Highlights

While the city is no longer the country’s capital, it can still boast the resplendence of its stately, magisterial past. Home to the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra and the Mariinsky (formerly Kirov) Ballet, it’s a paradise for classical music fans and arts aficionados. The great composer Dimitri Shostakovich, who was an air raid warden in the city, wrote his Seventh Symphony – known as the Leningrad Symphony – during the siege. This was premièred in the city in 1942 and broadcast at full blast at the encircling German army. The score, reduced to microfilm, was flown to the West and many performances followed. Many of the city’s artistic delights can be enjoyed at relatively low ticket prices.

Lowlights The weather, the weather, the weather. Brutally cold for much of the year, the suffering of its besieged citizens can only be imagined. Pack lots of warm clothing if you visit St Petersburg in the winter, and lots of insect repellent if you visit during its brief summer. Souvenirs

Russian nesting dolls and military regalia are popular. I bought my son-in-law a Russian naval hat.

IN T E R IO R OF T HE ST PETER SBURG METR S T A T IO O N AVTO VO

Where to stay My wife and I visited St Petersburg as part of a Baltic cruise, but any web-based booking site will offer you lots of choice, from budget-priced hotels to hotels of imperial grandeur, with prices to match. MAR 31 - APR 06 / ISSUE 414

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TRAVEL TECH

THE TECH IN YOU

Whether you're travelling near or far, for business or pleasure, it's always handy to take some cool gear with you on your adventures. Matthew Herbst takes a look at what's around SMART SHOOTER Barely weighing anything at all, this Nikon D5500 DSLR is compact, mirrorless and compatible with a much greater range of lenses than usual to showcase your photographic skills on your travels. It also has a tilting LCD display (ideal for selfies when visiting jebels) and sports Wi-Fi connectivity for instant storing and sharing without the need for cables. An ideal travel companion. At www.nikon.com from RO288.45.

BATTERY LIFE

EDITOR’S PICK

This Aukey 20,000mAh Portable External Battery Charger is more than capable of providing emergency backup power to charge your travel tech 10 times over. It’s also light and slim, and has a nifty torch built in. Priced at just RO8.68, this power bank is very affordable to even the most frugal traveller for the capacity it offers, while it has two USB ports for different output levels. Therefore, you can charge two devices at the same time. Handy. At www.amazon.co.uk.

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BACK TRACKER You and the whole family have set off on an adventure around Oman only to discover you are lost; scratching your heads, wondering where you took that wrong turn. With the conundrum of routes you have just taken, there would be no way to find out. However, with the Trackstick II, which is ever so slightly larger than a USB thumb drive, you can now retrace your steps by copying your travel route to GoogleEarth. Let the adventure continue. At www.trackstick.com from RO 76.53.

THIRD EYE JUST SLIDE IT ONTO THE CORNER OF YOUR IPHONE 6 OR 6 PLUS, AND THE OLLOCLIP 4-IN-1 LENS WILL TURN YOUR AVERAGE PICS INTO SOMETHING QUITE SPECTACULAR. IT ALSO ACTS AS A WIDE-ANGLE LENS FOR YOUR MOBILE CAMERA, DOUBLING YOUR FIELD OF VIEW AND CAPTURING VAST LANDSCAPES. ALSO INCLUDED IS A HANDY FISH-EYE LENS AND TWO MACRO LENSES FOR PORTRAITS AND FINE DETAIL SHOTS. AT WWW.OLLOCLIP.COM FROM RO30.76. JULY MAR 3103 - - APR 09 /06ISSUE / ISSUE 327 414

STEP COUNTER

The TomTom Spark isn’t just a fitness tracker, but an ideal gadget for those who love to get out and about. It offers GPS, heart rate monitoring and timing tools. The TomTom Spark lets users track every sprint, stroll and step as well as see the total time, distance and the calories burned. You can also switch modes to mix up your hikes. Alternatively, if that sounds a bit too outdoorsy for you, then use it for sleep tracking. An additional great feature is that it has built-in storage for songs and uses Bluetooth to sync to wireless earphones so you don't have to take your smartphone everywhere you go. This gives you more freedom to climb, jump or be adventurous in the wild. At www.johnlewis.com from RO92.

NEW CANON POWERSHOT SX540 HS Effortless fun and expert control are combined in this Canon Powershot SX540 HS 50x zoom, Wi-Fi-connected camera that is sure to take you on a photographic journey you never knew existed. Then, magically share your stunning vision as well as your movies using the Canon Connect app in just one tap using Wi-Fi with Dynamic NFC. Shoot realistic Full HD 60p movies with one touch of a button and keep footage steady at full zoom or on the run with Advanced Dynamic Image Stabiliser. Use Image Sync to automatically back up new images, to cloud services and to capture great wildlife shots with wireless Remote Shooting from your smart device, provided the animal doesn’t run off with all your gear, that is. At www.canon.com from RO153.45.

App of the Week

TRAVEL TRACKER With FlightTrack, follow the path of thousands of international and domestic flights. It’s great for those anticipating the arrival of loved ones or if you’re a bit of a plane spotter. It features zoomable maps, with detailed information on departure gates, delays and cancellations. At www.apple.com/ iTunes from RO1.91.

WITH THE BEAT The Divoom Airbeat-10 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that is perfect for those getaway weekends where luggage space is limited, but you just can’t do without your favourite tunes. It comes with a suction cup that turns any hard flat surface into an extra subwoofer that amplifies the bass for those beefy tunes. Plus it’s splash-proof, portable and features a bike mount, ideal for mountain biking adventures. The Divoom Airbeat 10 costs just RO 7.06 at www.amazon.co.uk. MARJULY 31 - 03 APR- 09 06 / ISSUE 327 414

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Y- F i C A R S

Audi A4 Specifications: Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder TFSI Horsepower: 190 Transmission: 7-speed S tronic Top speed: 250kph 0-100kph in 6.3 seconds

The all-new Audi A4 is in a class of its own and offers an exhilarating performance with superior looks, says Kate Ginn

ome cars are just so beautiful that you are a little reticent to drive them, not wishing to spoil even slightly the aesthetics of the machine. The all-new Audi A4 is a car like that. Standing by the driver’s door with the key in my hand, it seemed almost sacrilege to disturb the magnificence. This new A4 is certainly something to behold. The straight roofline and crisp edges, tapering down smoothly, give it a dynamic edge, like a languid big cat just waiting to roar into action. My test car was in striking black with matching 18-inch Audi Sport cast aluminium wheels in a matte black finish, and really looked the business. One-piece headlights and integrated tailpipes are also nice touches. Slip inside and it just keeps getting better. The A4 smells expensive, thanks to the soft nappa leather seats that give off that unmistakable “new car” aroma. Wood inlays are subtle and oh so classy. The quality of workmanship is uncompromisingly high. Driving an Audi is about understatement and refinement, a car with a timeless elegance. Even the sporty Audi TT exudes an air of culture, unlike some of its brasher rivals. Good breeding shows. Everything is just as beautifully designed in the interior. A real standout for me was the virtual cockpit (optional), a fully digital instrument cluster with highresolution 12.3-inch colour display. You can switch displays to suit your preference and it all feels like being in a sci-fi movie. You can go a step further and, on request, have a head046

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up display, which projects additional information such as speed and navigation onto the windscreen in the driver’s direct field. Now that is futuristic. The designers are clearly fastidious about every tiny detail and it shows. Everything seems to be driverorientated and tailored to your needs. I’m a fan of the Audi’s MMI (Multi Media Interface) system, a single integrated interface, which controls a variety of devices and functions of the car. It’s all accessed via a control dial in the centre console, conveniently placed below the gear shift. Some say it’s a bit fiddly, but I found it ridiculously easy to use, scrolling through the menu for radio, media or maps. You can connect your smartphone to keep in touch safely on the move and you can also opt for the digital networking system, for in-car Wi-Fi. This, I discovered, is one smart car. Technological highlights include a phone box with wireless charging and new driver assistance systems such as rear cross-traffic assist, exit warning, collision avoidance and pre-sense systems. If you have children, it would be worth investing in the extra entertainment tablet with 10-inch screen for rear seats, allowing the little ones to watch their favourite movies to their heart’s content. Tuned into Merge 104.8, it was time to put the A4 through its paces on the open road. Three different TFSI models are available in Oman and I was given the middle one, with a 2.0-litre engine, generating a very respectable 190

horsepower. The salesman had told me that the new A4 was fast. He was right. Goodness me, it’s incredibly fast. My foot was barely touching the accelerator and it was a job to keep within the speed limit, with the car straining at the leash to be let loose. Compared with the previous model, the car has got bigger, but its weight has been dramatically reduced – up to 120kg, depending on the engine – and the performance reflects that. The A4 is now one of the lightest in its class. This slimline body is all down to those clever men and women at Audi, who have come up with an intelligent mix of materials with lightweight construction. I thought it was speedy and then I switched to Sport mode, which, combined with the dynamic driving mode, made for a breathtaking ride, combining raw power with incredible smoothness. The ever-so polite, hushed beep, warning that I was going over the 120kph speed limit was going into overdrive. This is partly due to how deceptively quiet the A4 is at speed – it’s a leader in its class in terms of noise levels – meaning it’s easy to suddenly find yourself speeding. Even at a standstill, when stuck later in traffic on the Sultan Qaboos highway, I had to keep checking whether the engine was still on, such was the stillness. For even more superb handling, the optional quattro all-wheel drive would be a good bet. My few hours with the new Audi A4 was all too brief but sweet. I hope for a reunion in the very near future.

They say: “Redefines excitement” We say: “Beauty on wheels”

Virtual cockpit Cast aluminium wheels (standard) Matrix LED headlights Smartphone interface (optional) High-resolution MMI display Reverse-parking camera Leather seats Wood inlays Contour lighting Parking assist Adaptive cruise control