Y Magazine #481, August 3, 2017

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AUG 03 - 09 2017 / ISSUE 481 • WEEKLY

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IN THE GRIP OF THE GAME

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EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

Fast forward W

e’ve seen it before — an unfortunate situation where an athlete lands awkwardly and falls to the ground grabbing his or her knee. The first thought that typically occurs among those watching is, “Uh-oh, I hope it isn’t an ACL injury!”

What exactly is the ACL though? And why is it injured so frequently?

The knee joint is made up of the thighbone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia).

Connecting these two bones of the knee are four primary ligaments; one of which is called the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL attaches on a diagonal, which allows it to withstand high stress during lateral cutting and rotational activity. If these dynamic movements are not well controlled with our muscles, the ligament can easily become overloaded.

According to Dr M. Mahmood Shehabullah, NOC-Physician at Oman Sports Medicine Centre, there are more than 800 registered cases of ACL injuries every year in the Sultanate. While most of the cases are from footballers, there are hundreds of nonregistered cases from common people. “Most of the youngsters want to hit the gym to make themselves fit, but they should know that they are more prone than otherwise to get ACL injury due to improper warm-ups,” Dr Mahmood Shehabullah says.

If the ACL is torn, surgery to repair the tear is commonly recommended but the cost can be high in Oman. In our cover story this week, we speak to footballers and common people who underwent ACL surgeries and with experts on the dangers of ACL injury.

Have a great week!

editor@y-oman.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi SENIOR ONLINE EDITOR Nishad Padiyarath ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

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AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

03

contents

AUGUST 03 - 09 2017

Your Oman

This Week

08 Voice Of Oman

Alvin Thomas 10 News

Adam accident due to

wrong overtaking: ROP 11 Gallery

Healthy Heart 13 News

Fuel prices rise for August

18 To the beat

Kill your weekday

stress at On the Rocks

Features 22 Cover Story

ACL Injuries on the rise

in the Sultanate 28 Say No To Digital Drugs

Despicable dangers

lurking in the web beats

19 Art classes

Keep your little ones

busy at art class this summer 21 Movies

Dunkirk

22

10 Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Ruins of Fanja 34 First Drive

Land Rover Discovery 36 Postcard From

Taipei 38 Y-Fi

Hot Sounds

21 Health and Beauty 40 Fashion

”Check” me out 42 Beauty

Glow and Glam

38

Food and Drink 44 Food Feature

Smart cooking 46 Taste Test

Africa restaurant

and coffee shop

44

43 Health

Dental Hygiene

40

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THE VOICE OF OMAN ALVIN THOMAS WRITES WHY RESPECT SHOULDN’T BE A ONEWAY STREET

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

T

here’s a beautiful saying that reads: “Don’t expect to receive if you’re not willing to give.”

While these words can be associated with various doings in our daily lives, I thought it was time I talked about one that particularly caught my eye: giving and earning respect.

It’s a petulant topic, you see; but one that must be addressed.

Recently, during one of my evening walks, I had come across an incident that I thought I must share with you.

It was around 8pm, and I was walking past one of the shawarma shops in Azaiba. Aside from the usual hustle, however, I heard loud voices coming from amid the cars.

I turned back to see an Indian expatriate yelling at a Turkish waiter. Being the nosy journalist I am, I stopped (keeping a safe distance from them) to see what was going on.

I realised that the expat — who kept emphasising that he was a doctor — was shouting at the waiter because he allegedly grazed the paint on his new Range Rover… with his hand (!)

The waiter kept apologising, but the doctor didn’t seem to budge.

Soon, the manager of the restaurant was called in, and the doctor was asked to leave without taking his order.

The doctor then began accusing the restaurant of “mistreating” and “showing no respect to customers”, before making a hasty retreat.

So, who’s at fault here? Is it the doctor or the restaurant manager?

While both parties were in the wrong, I think the doctor should have dealt with the incident with more maturity. If he had raised the incident with the waiter without making a scene, then he would have been treated with respect by the restaurant too.

Put this into perspective, and we can solve a lot of the tribulations seen around us. Life is about more than just making our lives better; a lack of respect for one another erodes our community, today.

Imagine how much stronger we could be if we simply respected and cared for one another.

It’s a general thought, but one that is of great importance. Think about it.

08

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

How difficult and expensive was it for you to get your driving licence in Oman?

BILAL MOIN

Well, as far as I know, it’s not so difficult. The ROP is just making sure that people don’t kill each other while driving. There are safety rules and road protocols that those who want to get a driving licence should be familiar with. I got my licence at the second attempt, a few of my friends got it at the first try and there a few others who had tried 10 times without success. It’s all about skills, training and confidence..

JOM SAGAL

It’s not really difficult. I got it at the fourth attempt. Perhaps, people who had been driving in their home countries may find it a bit hard and disappointing when they fail the tests a few times. Problem is, they don’t want to be taught.

They think, “Who is this guy teaching me how to drive? I know how to drive!” And that’s why they fail. The only difficult thing is that it’s expensive.

ELAMARAN NANNAN

It’s not extremely difficult, but moderately. I got it at the fifth attempt. I got a gentleman to train with. Nevertheless, one has to keep aside RO500 or so for the purpose. Try until you get. It’s a great feel.

SUNIL JOHN MARTIN

It is usually the driving instructors who make getting a licence here difficult. Sometimes, they have multiple driving tests of different students at different locations, on the same day. Twice, I had to go to the test area on my own and wait for the instructor to come. On another occasion, since he also had a job as a PRO in a company, he got

WRITE TO US AND YOU COULD WIN

an urgent call from his company and had to attend to his official work. Hence, I was among the first to come but the last to take the test. Thankfully, he did not disappear with the contract money of RO500 and my learner’s book. Eventually, I got my driving licence at the sixth attempt. Driving licences are not given easily because a mistake on the road could result in an accident.

GAUTAM GHOSH DASTIDAR

Getting a driving licence here was not difficult or expensive for me as I neither own nor want one. A certain number of stories are not really sour grapes. I believe in an eco-friendly world where we shall be able to jaywalk at least once in a blue moon. I am rather grateful to the authorities for keeping the driving licence out of bounds to those ‘children’ who play with their ‘toy cars’ right in the middle of the highway.

MOHAN ANANDAN

The difficulties and struggles pale into insignificance when you realise that having a driving licence is a necessity in this part of the world. This is so in particular, if your family is with you here. In fact, it was jokingly said that getting a driving licence in the Gulf was akin to having another master’s degree in business administration! In other words, the efforts, energy, time, stress and, of course, money required for this precious ‘degree’ was not less than that you put in for a university degree. When I got the driving licence in the mid-nineties, I opted for the ‘full-package contract’ at a lump sum as was the normal practice then. And it went off smoothly for both parties, fetching me the ‘coveted trophy’ at the third attempt. Of course, it was very expensive even

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then. Years down the line, things have not changed much and the difficulties and cost of acquiring a driving licence continue to remain high.

JASON FELIX NORONHA

Getting a driving licence for me was a breeze as we had just moved in from Kuwait in 2008 and I got my licence transferred without hassles. That said, stories are aplenty of wrong practices , harassment and extortion to the point that the victim gives up hope altogether of ever getting a licence. Without a licence you are more or less handicapped and have to depend on others to move around. There is an urgent need to have more professionally run training schools so that everyone has a clear idea of the whole process: how to go about, what to expect and how much to shell out.

SYED BOKHARI

Well, to obtain a valid document in any country without which it is impossible or difficult to move around, be it an ID Card or a driving licence, one has to go through the proper channel and steps. I am against paying bribes or taking an easy way out.

I had an honest trainer who arranged my driving tests in reasonable time and was lucky to get the licence without any hitch. I had been driving in my homeland and that helped me get one here without hiccups.

MOHAMMAD OSAMA RAWAT

Getting a driving licence here was quite easy for me.

I got it at the first attempt and, fortunately, my trainer was an honest person who charged me just RO5 on a daily basis and got the test date within three weeks.

He turned up on time all these three weeks. Both my sons too were fortunate enough to get good driving instructors and paid them on a daily basis. One got the licence at the fourth attempt and the other got it at the sixth try. Overall, no complaints or regrets.

New Debate: More than 20 people have died on the Nizwa-Salalah highway in the last two months. What measures can be taken by you — as a driver or passenger — to reduce the chances of having an incident en route to Salalah?

Share your view with us and you could be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.

ANSALAM JULIEN was spotted with his favourite Y Magazine in Muscat

DR RAO BHASKARA SUDDAPALLI

It was a breeze for me to get the driving licence in 1998, spending hardly RO300. That was the package rate those days. The driving instructors were really good and trustworthy, barring a few bad apples. My instructor, hailing from far-off Al Hajiar area, turned up near my home by 4.45am every day to start training at 5am. He never missed a class and I got my licence without delay. However, things changed for the worse in a year or two. One of my junior colleagues had to give 18 road tests over a period of five years and shell out RO2,000 as instructors gave him the slip. I have heard that certain professions, like doctors, are getting special consideration: I have seen some trainees going for the test wearing the apron.

USHA DEVI SUDDAPALLI

Luckily, I have never felt the need to have a driving licence here. One of the learning sites was located behind our home in the MBD area in the late nineties, and that gave me some taste of the travails faced by the aspirants. While the lucky ones got it in a couple of months spending as little as RO300, I know of people who spent even a couple of thousand riyals. Tales about instructors vanishing with the advance being paid by the aspirants are aplenty. Some of the learners fail road tests many times simply because they could not understand the instructions given by the examiner and there are those who celebrate their achievement in a big way. Whatever, let the document that allows one to drive here come with all its finer attributes.

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AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

09

YOUR

OMAN

T

he freak accident in which three people — two Emiratis and one Saudi national — were killed at the town of Qarn al Alam, in Adam, on July 25 was caused by “wrong overtaking”, according to the Royal Oman Police (ROP).

The ROP said special safety campaigns aimed at motorists using the Adam-Thumrait highway had been launched.

Thirteen people were injured in the accident when three vehicles collided.

Meanwhile, eight people were killed in a collision between two vehicles near Qatbeet, Salalah, on July 30.

According to a statement from the ROP, “two vehicles collided near Qatbeet [northwestern Dhofar], Salalah, leading to the death of eight people, five of whom are Omanis”.

“The accident occurred at 11:30pm,” the statement read.

The ROP added that the vehicles were heading for Salalah when the accident happened.

In a statement to the media, an ROP spokesperson said a taxi, which had three men and one woman, had collided with the other, which had four passengers, leading to five deaths on the spot.

“Three injured were first taken to the Maqshan health centre by ambulance and then to the Sultan Qaboos Hospital in Salalah by ROP’s aviation department, where they succumbed to their injuries,” the spokesperson said.

NEWS

ADAM ROAD ACCIDENT DUE TO

OVERTAKING: ROP

ROP ARRESTS

ARMED ROBBERS

T

hree Omani citizens have been arrested for armed robbery in Ruwi, according to a statement released by the Royal Oman Police (ROP).

“We have arrested three citizens on charges of looting and threatening two people of Asian nationality with a knife in Ruwi,” the ROP stated.

The suspects forced the victims into their vehicle and threatened them with a knife, before stealing their money, the ROP said.

BAN ON DUNE BASHING

IN BAUSHAR

A

re you into extreme sports such as dune bashing and sand sliding? Well, if you are, then it would be best if you refrained from doing so in the dunes in the Baushar area.

As per a statement issued by the Muscat Municipality on Thursday, it is now illegal for unauthorised civilians to enter the dunes and practise any “activity” on the site.

Signboards warning civilians of the same have been put up.

“The area is undergoing

010

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

deep excavation and, therefore, we refrain anyone from using it for any other activities due to safety concerns,” the statement read.

The dunes in Baushar have been popular among off-roaders who ‘dune bash’ in their SUVs or on rented quad-bikes.

While the statement did not specify the activities that were banned, it must be noted that camping at the location will also be among the list of prohibited activities.

HEALTHY HEART

GALLERY

ON THE OCCASION OF ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY, BURJEEL HOSPITAL IN MUSCAT ANNOUNCED ON MONDAY [JULY 31, 2017] THE OPENING OF ITS STATE-OFTHE-ART CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION LABORATORY. THE FACILITY CAN BE USED FOR CONDUCTING ANGIOGRAMS, ANGIOPLASTY STENTING PROCEDURES, NON-SURGICAL CLOSURE OF HOLES AND DEFECTS, AND PACEMAKER IMPLANTATION, AMONG OTHER MEDICAL PROCEDURES.

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

011

YOUR

#THROWBACKTHURSDAY

OMAN

IN THIS WEEKLY SERIES, WE TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF Y’S PHOTOGRAPHER, SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI’S, MOST COVETED SNAPS. THIS WEEK, WE HIGHLIGHT SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE CLICKS -FROM Y’S ‘DAILY PHOTO’ SEGMENT -THAT WERE PUBLISHED ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS.

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AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

GALLERY

NEWS

AHMAD AL HARTHY IS

PRO-AM CHAMPION

O

man’s star racing driver Ahmad al Harthy has made his country proud again, winning the prestigious Blancpain Endurance Cup Pro-Am Championship with a magnificent second place Pro-Am class finish in the globally renowned Total 24 Hours of Spa. With his podium finish on July 30, Al Harthy became the first Omani and first Arab-origin racing driver to win a coveted championship in the world’s biggest and best GT3 endurance series.

The fourth event of the five-round Blancpain Endurance season, the twice-round-the-clock Total 24 Hours of Spa carried huge importance in championship terms with points allocated at the sixhour, 12-hour and 24-hour marks.

Speaking after the race, Al Harthy said: “To stand on the podium at Spa is a dream come true but to win the Pro-Am championship too, drivers and team titles, is just amazing.

“It’s hard to put into words just what this means for Oman Racing and for everyone in Oman who has given us such incredible support, especially our amazing partners who make this happen,” he added.

With the Omani taking the final hour of racing for the run to the chequered flag, it was only after he crossed the finish line that he was informed –over the team radio –the Pro-Am title had been secured, sparking emotional celebrations.

“The team did an unbelievable job, the car never had to box during the race for any problems at all and we could just fight non-stop to do the best job we could,” added Al Harthy.

FUEL PRICES RISE FOR AUGUST

B

ad news, motorists. The fuel prices registered a marginal rise for the month of August, compared to that of last month.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Oil and Gas, the high-grade M95 petrol will now cost 186 baisas per litre, compared to last month’s 183 baisas per litre.

Meanwhile, the lower grade M91 petrol will cost 178 baisas per litre, compared to 175 baisas in July.

The price of diesel has also gone up to 196 baisas per litre, from 192 baisas per litre in July.

THROUGH YOUR EYES

SHARE YOUR PHOTO WITH Y TO BE FEATURED IN OUR NEW READER SECTION

Y reader Sharukh Zalam takes the pain to capture this stunning image of a beautiful bee in the midst of the woods.

Send your photo to editor@y-oman.com to be featured in our new section, Through Your Eyes. Include where it was taken, your name and a few details about your photograph, such as the camera used.

PHOTO: Sharukh Zalam

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

013

014

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481 Photos: Shaquel Al Balushi

Today’s inspiration: Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. -Albert Einstein

In a new series, we look for inspiration from a variety of influences around Oman, including its people, places and wildlife.

NEWS

OMAN’S TAKE ON DESPACITO MORE PASSENGERS

HARPS ON HIGH DOWRIES CLOCKED AT

MUSCAT INTERNATIONAL

O

manis have released their own humorous cover of Spanish song Despacito, and it has taken the region by storm.

While the original song sung by Puerto Rican singers Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee focuses on dance and romance, the young Omanis have tackled a far more serious issue: the dowry system and the prohibitive price of marriage arrangements in the Sultanate.

The video has clocked more than 1.3 million views (on July 31, 2017) since being uploaded on YouTube, and has also been featured on BBC Trending.

The song had also broken past the 250,000 views mark in under 24 hours after it was uploaded.

The cover song, titled ‘Athabtouhum’ (you tortured them), highlights the high costs of marriage in the Sultanate.

Sung by Mohammed Al Manji, the two-minute video was shared by a wealth of people on social media. The video

AIRPORT

shows a group of local young men visiting an older man to ask for his daughter’s hand (marriage).

The father demands the suitor to provide his daughter an apartment, a car, shabka (money and jewellery given to a bride as part of Omani tradition) as well as a hefty dowry.

Oman has seen a 6.4 per cent decrease in marriages last year compared to that in 2015, while it registered 3,736 divorce cases in 2016, the highest recorded in the last five years.

NEW MUSCAT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT NEARING COMPLETION

T

he much-awaited Muscat International Airport passenger terminal is nearing completion. With 97 per cent of the terminal work being completed, operations are expected to begin soon.

The new passenger terminal, which is set to serve more than 20 million travellers annually, is also expected to revamp travel and tourism in Oman. The terminal will raise its capacity to 48 million passengers, over the years.

The passenger terminal is estimated at 580,000 cubic metres in size, and consists of three wings and 118 check-in counters for various airlines.

In addition, 82 counters will also be available to complete the immigration proceedings.

Forty aerobridges will enable passengers to walk from the terminal directly into the plane, thereby eliminating the need for boarding the airport buses.

A total of 29 waiting halls will be available at the terminal before take-off, and a four-starhotel is also expected to be opened to travellers.

In May, the new Muscat International Airport successfully passed numerous operational tests ahead of its official opening, airport officials had told the local Arabic daily Al Watan.

After a recent travel simulation test, an official has stated that the airport recorded very “positive results”, signalling that it would be ready for business by the fourth quarter of 2017.

M

uscat International Airport (MIA) was reported to have witnessed a growth of 14.3 per cent in the number of passengers in the first six months of 2017, compared to that of the same period in 2016.

According to the statistical bulletin issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), a total of 6,505,671 passengers — including transports and transit —visited the airport, compared to the 5,694,194 passengers that visited during the same period in 2016.

The bulletin also showed that the number of international flights through Muscat International Airport by the end of June 2017 stood at 49,243, compared with 45,232 flights during the same period in 2016, thereby marking an increase of 8.9 per cent, overall.

Meanwhile, domestic flights through Muscat International Airport increased by 25.8 per cent to reach 5,546 flights by the end of June 2017, compared to 4,409 flights during the same period in 2016.

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

015

YOUR

TOASTMASTERS

OMAN

DO YOU SUFFER FROM STAGE FRIGHT AND WANT TO CONQUER IT? IF YES, THE TOASTMASTERS ARE THERE FOR YOU. A TEAM OF SEASONED SPEAKERS HAVE BEEN WORKING FOR A DECADE IN MUSCAT TO CREATE LEADERS AND PUBLIC SPEAKERS. THE EVENT WAS ORGANISED THIS SUNDAY [JULY 30, 2017].

TOASTMASTERS IS A NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL ORGANISATION THAT OPERATES CLUBS WORLDWIDE FOR THE PURPOSE OF HELPING MEMBERS IMPROVE THEIR LEADERSHIP SKILLS.

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AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

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05

Chill-out and kill the weekday stress with international DJs Michael Dunne and Natalie Brogan, as they take over the house at On The Rocks. Entry is free for all till 11pm, but ladies can walk in at any time. On The Rocks will also throw in complementaries from 11pm to 1am. For reservations and VIP packages, contact the team at 97983333 or 94447775.

Gallery

Movies

Instead of keeping your children at home during the long summer school vacations, here’s your chance to indulge them in art of all forms.

Bait Al Baranda will launch a children’s summer workshop on August 6 to help children understand the importance of extra curriculum activities in their daily lives. For bookings, contact 24714262.

AUG

06

GCC ARBITRATION FORUM

ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN

The annual commercial arbitration forum will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Salalah from August 15 to 17 by the Arbitration Centre, in cooperation with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Several experts and judges from various GCC states will take part in the forum, which will be opened by Sayyid Mohammed bin Sultan al Busaidy, Minister of State and Governor of Dhofar.

AUG

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Top

❶ Thriller Singer: Michael Jackson

Release date: 1982 Certified Units: 32 million

Best Selling Music Albums of All Time Greatest Hits ❷ Their Band: Eagles

Release Date: 1971-1975 Certified Units: 29 million

Hits Volume ❸ Greatest 1 & Volume 2

Band: Billy Joel Release Date: 1985 Certified Units: 23 million

❹

020

Led Zeppelin IV Band: Led Zeppelin Release Date: 1971 Certified Units: 23 million

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Wall ❺ The Band: Pink Floyd

Release Date: 1982 Certified Units: 23 million

SOURCE: businessinsider.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

Dunkirk: An incredibly heartfelt masterpiece Director: Christopher Nolan; Starring: Fionn Whitehead, Aneurin Barnard, Harry Styles, Mark Rylance, Tom GlynnCarney, Barry Keoghan, Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, Jack Lowden, James D’Arcy, Kenneth Branagh.

Much has been said about Christopher Nolan’s diverse and intense body of work, from The Prestige to the Dark Knight trilogy right up to Insterstellar. But words fall short to accurately do justice to his latest accomplishment.

With Dunkirk, Nolan has paved the way for a new meaning to the war genre, which for most is synonymous with gruelling combat, blood, gore and politics.

In lieu of the predictable, the filmmaker embraces a path-breaking narrative that systematically and flawlessly injects the dismay and horror of war right into his audience’s veins.

Shot in the IMAX format, Dunkirkre lays the evacuation of the Allied troupes from the French territory through different perspectives: the air (Spitfire aircraft), water (boats and ships) and land (the beach).

Right at the start, the film draws its audience into battle when Tommy (Fionn Whitehead), a British soldier, along with his comrades are caught in enemy crossfire. He escapes, landing up on Dunkirk beach watching thousands of crestfallen and defeated men queuing up for rescue.

The Germans have taken advantage of the trapped Allied forces, frequently dropping aerial bombs on the sequestered men instead of advancing by land. When ships do arrive to evacuate the French and British, the Germans get to them en route in the sea. Soon, civilians enter the fore, using their personal vessels to bring home their men. One of them is mariner Mr Dawson (Mark Rylance) who uses his own yacht to rescue as many men. In the air, Farrier (Tom Hardy) and his fellow Royal Air Force pilots hope to get to the German planes before further Allied casualties.

Nolan’s spectacle is equally aided with a stellar soundtrack from his frequent collaborator Hans Zimmer. The film’s music, certainly a worthy protagonist, ebbs and flows with onscreen action.

The score, often palpitating like a hammering heartbeat, reaches a crescendo amplifying tense situations.

Nolan uses the frequent change in perspectives and Zimmer’s soundtrack to keep his viewers on the edge of their seats, never fully letting them fall.

Dunkirk invests in smaller sub-plots that individually elicit compassion and empathy. For instance, at one moment you’re fretting about Farrier’s malfunctioning fuel gauge while he’s

in the air hoping he won’t crash; at another your heart aches at the antagonism between British and French soldiers, both fighting the same war; and then you’re feeling the excruciating ill-effects shell shock can have on an unnamed soldier (Cillian Murphy). And to reiterate, it’s Zimmer’s music that helps amplify these moments creating an anxious atmosphere.

The actors, right from veteran Rylance to Hardy and debutant Harry Styles (also ex-One Direction band member), are top-notch, bringing their character’s steely determination and sincerity to the fore. The film is about history, albeit a dramatic one. We already know what happened. But Nolan’s film, barely short of being a documentary of the 1940 evacuation, punctuates the momentary defeat of the Allied forces.

In doing so, he’s immortalised a fleeting glimpse of the perseverance of the human spirit. The end result is an aural and, most importantly, an incredibly heartfelt masterpiece. - Agencies

Long View JAB HARRY MET SEJAL The love and affection between Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma can be seen and felt in real life too. The duo will be seen soon in Imtiaz Ali’s Jab Harry Met Sejal. After creating a positive buzz in India, the team of JHMS is now off to Dubai for promotions.

Being tired did not stop Shah Rukh from gushing over his gorgeous co-star.

With the date of release approaching, excitement among the fans is at its peak. With Hawayein and Safar, the music album has already created a space for itself.

The Raees star and Anushka will be seen sharing screen space for the third time after Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

However, this is their first collaboration with Imtiaz Ali. The story revolves around Harry and Sejal’s journey across Europe. A search for Sejal’s engagement ring makes Harry understand love and relationships better. Sejal experiences new-found freedom, security and solace in Harry’s company and in between all of this, there is love, life, lies, thrill, fantasy and the search for the voice within.

Oman Release Date : August 03

WIN CHANCE TO R U O Y B A R G TS EMA TICKE IN C Y IT C R FOU

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION

Who is the director of Jab Harry Met Sejal?

LAST WEEK'S WINNER Ahmad Hussain

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 2460 7360

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e n i l e h t In pain of ENT M A G I L H T I ILITIES W IGAMENT C A F T N E M TE L R E AT A I T C S U T R R C O R P O S . ANTERI D THE VICTIMS ARE O P L E AT G E P N I F D O N I E W N I THE L L O N G A N D T H E S U LT A N A T E A N G N I A LV I N T .

T L E L E G S W I N I S S A N TEAR COMMO Y FOLKS O SHARE T R W A O S N N T I R E D E R R P A O X INJURIES ORTSPERSONS, BUT SITS DOWN WITH E IENTS P AT D N OT J U S T S C K S I N TO C L I N I C S A N P L E S S N E S S O F T H E P E EL THOMAS CH RUGGLE AND SHEER H T T H E PA I N , S

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TIPS TO AVOID ACL INJURIES Practise these guidelines, exercises, and drills on your own and with your team. Don’t wait until the season starts. Get in shape to play; don’t play to get in shape!

➊

T

he year is 2012: Thirty-year-old Robin Sebastian takes to the football court on a mid-summer day, confident that his team of five would win the trophy in the district’s premier corporate football tournament held at the city of Kochi in the state of Kerala.

The match is a show of talent but, more than that, it’s an opportunity to settle some old scores, especially for Robin who has been waiting for long for a perfect platform to shame the rival company employees.

Whistles away and with victory firmly in sight, Robin quickly takes control of the ball and dribbles past the defenders in an almost Messi-like manoeuvre. And then it happens. A vicious tackle hurls Robin into the ground.

A quick Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan reveals the extent of the damage. He has torn the ligament in his right foot, resulting in what doctors tell him is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Luckily for Robin, the tear is only partial and can heal with rest and physiotherapy; surgery isn’t required. But he has to undergo an eight-month-long rehabilitation.

Why did Robin — an experienced athlete and sportsperson — suffer the injury?

According to Robin, it’s due to “the lack of pre-game preparation and warm-up”.

He adds: “We went into the game with no prior practice or warm-up. It was us five players packing up our kit and heading to the pitch for a game of football. And that’s what led to the course of events.

“This wasn’t helped by the fact that we were middle-aged men who were running around the pitch after work. We were really not in the right shape, and neither were we fit enough to be a part of a professional tournament.”

Fast forward to early 2017. Robin is in Oman with his family. He has given up contact sports such as football and basketball and is happy playing cricket and badminton.

It’s five years now since he has suffered the ACL injury, so Robin throws caution to the wind during a practice session of cricket in Ruwi. A couple of overs into his bowling spell, he slips and falls.

The pain and swelling creeps back in, and so do the chills. He is immediately taken to a doctor in the vicinity who warns him that more than 50 per cent of his ligament is torn. Robin is barred from

doing heavy exercise and sports once again.

Robin knows that he has to take care of himself with utmost care, so he takes bed rest for three days (as prescribed) before beginning his light physiotherapy sessions.

“My doctor didn’t prescribe me surgery as he believed that the injury could heal with only physiotherapy. But the stability of my body is completely off. I couldn’t turn left or right quickly without going out of balance.”

As time goes by, he is slowly and steadily able to pick himself up and walk. But a few months into rehabilitation, Robin feels uneasy.

“I felt my leg giving up. And that’s when I could take it no more,” says Robin.

“I wanted to play again. I wanted to feel like a normal person again.”

With that goal in mind, he heads to Dr Mahmood Shehabullah — a sports medicine specialist at the Oman Sports Medicine Centre located in the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Baushar who had served in eight summer Olympics (from 1988 to 2016).

He advises Robin to undergo ‘ACL reconstruction’ surgery. The very next week, he heads back to his home country to undergo the operation.

Today, Robin is undergoing physiotherapy at the Oman Sports Medicine Centre with several others, most of whom are victims of ACL injuries. As of this week, he has successfully completed four weeks of rehabilitation.

“I can now drive, walk and even exercise in peace. Knowing that I can do all of this like I always did makes me feel better,” Robin adds, before telling us that he intends to create awareness among the people in Oman, through his interview with Y. In a year or so, Robin may be able to begin playing sports. But everyone with an ACL-related injury may not be just as lucky.

So, what is an ACL injury? In simple terms, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is when the ACL is either stretched, partially torn, or completely torn.

To get to grips with this injury, we sit down for an interview with Dr Mahmood Shehabullah, who, much like Robin, is on a mission to control ACL-related injuries being reported daily.

According to the doctor, the statistics of patients coming to hospital with ACL injuries are worrying. To show us the extent to which ACL-related injuries have spread, he shows us case-files. “These are

Ignorance and lack of education on the injury is the main factor that ACLrelated injuries are on the rise

Always warm up before playing.

Get blood circulating to your muscles and joint before you start your game or practice.

➋

Stretch. Being flexible enough to move freely can help you maintain ideal form.

Include stretches for your thighs, calves, and hips, and pay particular attention to any areas that are especially tight.

➌ Balance. Many injuries occur when an athlete is off-balance. Like anything, balance gets better with practice. Your gains in stability will pay off on the playing field.

➍

Agility-Changing Direction: Run to a line or cone, plant your outside foot without letting your knee collapse inward to change direction.

Move in patterns that take you front to back, side to side and diagonally. Start by running slowly so you can concentrate on good position. Pick up the pace and maintain good technique.

➎

Jump straight upward several times. Spring up, then land with your feet and knees pointing straight ahead. No knock knees! Let your knees bend softly each time you land. Practise these jumps facing a teammate and ask him/her to watch your form. Practise proper landing technique until it becomes second nature.

➏

REST! Don’t let a packed schedule of practices, games, and schoolwork leave you so tired that your technique gets sloppy.

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the patients who came to me with ACL injuries, today. Yesterday, it was three people. So, you see, ACL injuries are extremely common now. It used to be associated with sportspersons (footballers, cricketers, tennis players, etc.), but now it is seen among common people as well.”

According to a report published by the Ministry of Sports Affairs Department of Sports Medicine, a total of 756 sports-related injuries were reported in the Sultanate in 2016. Of these, 328 cases were ACL injuries.

The number of injuries has been on the rise. This year (from January to July), more than 175 ACLrelated injuries (out of 426 sports-related injuries) have been reported in Oman.

“And these numbers don’t even begin to highlight the problem we face here,” says the doctor. “According to the government, it is only compulsory for us to take the records of Omanis who have had ACL injuries, so the overall number of patients can be much, much higher.”

Why does Oman witness a surge in patients visiting clinics across the country with ACL injuries?

According to Dr Mahmood, it all begins with a lack of knowledge from a primary school level. “Most of the physical education teachers aren’t trained to take care of ACL injuries.

They need to be given proper training so that they can take care of the children when they come down with an injury pertaining to their ligaments.

“Here, these kids finish school or the adults finish work, and run down to the beach or ground to play sports. There’s no warm-up or stretching involved.”

The most common form of an ACL injury is when dribbling while playing football or landing on one foot while playing basketball, says the doctor.

“Landing on one foot or twisting your knees are the most common form of ACL injuries. The stress on your knees can cause your ligament to tear.”

Symptoms of an ACL injury includes pain, a popping sound “pukk” (as described

by Dr Mahmood) during injury, instability of the knee, and swelling of your joint. The swelling generally appears within a couple of hours of the injury.

In approximately 50 per cent of cases, other structures of the knee such as ligaments, cartilage, or the meniscus are

also damaged.

One person can do up to a total of five ACL operations on one knee.

According to a surgeon at the Royal Hospital, you can “graft a ligament from one knee and implant it on the other leg.”

“You can also take your semitendinosus tendon and have up to three surgeries, or your quadriceps tendon, which you can use once. “But no matter what, if you play hard, your graft will go out.

Nevertheless, you can make a full recovery. But playing professionally will be hard.”

Still, remarkable recovery stories include that of football stars such as Theo Walcott, the winger for Arsenal and England; Francesco Totti, striker for Roma and Italy; Ruud Van Nistelrooy, striker for Manchester United and Netherlands; and Alex Morgan, striker for the US. Obesity has also become a contributing factor to ACL injuries in Oman.

“A person weighing 80kg is unlikely (in most cases) to have a good harmonic alignment with his or her upper and lower body. This in turn can cause an ACL injury while playing a sport or doing chores around work or home,” the surgeon says.

Dr Mahmood, who has also treated Indian tennis star Sania Mirza — an ACL injury patient herself — explains how this injury can affect women. He tells: “In women, ACL injuries are a bit more complicated. Apart from the

I had never encountered pain such as this before.

It was the description of hell on earth

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usual dangers, in women, the knee-to-hip ratio is high, so the chance of twisting is equally higher.

“Also, hormones and the strength of the bone can play a serious role in day-to-day life.”

In most cases, though, ACL injuries are only reported after the ligament has suffered complete damage.

This is very much the case with 14-year-old Omani student Ahmed al Balushi. The budding footballer suffered a twist to the

TEAR OF THE ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT (ACL) FRONT VIEW OF FLEXED KNEE

knee when a metal stud from his shoes came loose while playing on grass. When he reported the incident to his physical education teacher and father, they asked him to “shake it off ” and “be a man with injuries (be strong)”.

Ahmed found it hard to walk, or even stand without leaning on furniture.

He describes his situation: “I had never encountered pain such as this before. It was the description of hell on earth.

“My parents and teachers said the pain was due to the fall, and that it would heal along with my bruises. But, a week later, when I was climbing down the stairs, my knee started burning and I fell to the ground. It was like someone unscrewing something from my knee.

“I began crying and was lifted to the medic who sent me to the Oman Sports Medicine Centre. It was when I was there that I was told I had suffered an ACL injury, and that I would have to have surgery.

“So, in March of this year, I flew to India to get the surgery done. It was a one-day procedure, and I have been undergoing physiotherapy since then. Now, I can walk and even balance myself freely.”

Recounting the story of his patient, Dr Mahmood says: “Ignorance and lack of education on the injury is the main factor that ACL-related injuries are on the rise.

People think that they know a lot about their body. And because of that, they end up hurting themselves.”

He adds: “Many don’t believe in warming up and stretching. Once you stretch, your muscle becomes supple and elongated, so you have more flexibility and less chance of having a bad incident.

“According to the Hospital for Special Surgery, USA, an individual would have to spend at least eight to 12 minutes of stretching and running before heading onto the pitch to play a sport or even lift weights at the gym.”

Failure to do so can not only throw your body into a sudden fit of action, but also upset the balance of the muscles, bones, tendons and ligaments.

A group of doctors are now also trying to educate young physical education teachers as well as students about the ACL. The group, which also includes Dr Mahmood, sends trained staff to schools and colleges in order to enlighten everyone about the injury.

When we ask Dr Mahmood whether the number of ACL cases will go higher or lower in the coming years, he sighs: “I am afraid that the cases will only go up. I have been here for more than 36 years and I feel that I haven’t been able to make much of a change or create more awareness among the people about this horrible injury. But, I am trying, and I am sure things will change for the better soon.”

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In the

GRIP OF THE GAME A LARGE TURNOUT OF EAGER YOUNGSTERS AT A GAMING ARCADE IN SEEB LEAVES THE ORGANISER STUNNED AND ALL-SMILES. HERE’S A PROMISING OPPORTUNITY FOR ENTREPRENEURS TO STEP IN AND MAKE AN ENGAGING DIFFERENCE, WRITES HASAN AL LAWATI

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P

F

uelled by pure passion, Salim Marhoon al Abri drove all the way from Ibri to Muscat for three hours on an empty stomach to compete in a video game tournament.

“It was marvellous,” the 20-year-old man said after bagging the first prize: a cost-free trip to Spain.

Salim was one among a huge crowd of youngsters who had flocked to a bustling entertainment centre in Al Seeb to take part in one of the country’s biggest gaming events.

The organisers said they were left

stunned by “the unexpected turnout” as more than 400 players had registered for a game of FIFA. The tournament was held over three nights during Ramadan. Tension mounted during the final stages, but the remarkable effort put in by the organisers made sure an error-free finale to the proceedings.

How can people turn these lively events into profitable investments? That was on my mind as I stepped into the gaming arena. I got my answer quicker than I expected to, thanks to Abdul Rahman Al Adawi.

“There is scope for a profitable entrepreneurship in the local gaming industry. I sensed a shortage of gaming hubs for Omanis and that was when I decided to start my own business,” said Al Adawi.

An encouraging number of young men are showing interest in taking part in proper, wellrun competitions, he said, adding that there is more to be done, despite the increasing number of arcades in Muscat, to meet their ever-growing needs.

“I compete with four arcades in my area only,” he explained.

Abdul Rahman’s biggest achievement so far was to host Oman’s biggest PlayStation 4 FIFA 17 tournament.

More than 400 people took part in the competition, each paying RO10 to register.

“I spent most of my budget on advertising the tournament on social media,” he said. “I still get phone calls from people asking if they can register for any forthcoming event.”

Abdul Rahman plans to organise a competition once every three months.

“Getting sponsorship was not a tall order.

Local firms are familiar with the increasing trend of gaming and are willing to support SMEs to take these events to a whole new level,” he said, adding that thanks to the sponsors, he was able to handsomely award the winner.

“In Oman, first-person shooting games and football games such as FIFA and PES are constantly in demand, in addition to multiplayer games,” he added.

ABOVE Abdul Rahman al Adawi, founder of Golden Joystick gaming centre and Oman’s PlayStation Championship

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to digital drugs

SAY N

A NEW CRAZE AMONG TEENS TO GET HIGH THROUGH THEIR HEADPHONES IS A CAUSE FOR CONCERN, EVEN IN THE SULTANATE. HASAN AL LAWATI TUNES IN TO THE SOUNDS OF DESPICABLE DANGERS LURKING IN THE WEB BEATS

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I

t wasn’t quite the best trip of his life he had longed for or the colours and patterns he had hoped to enjoy, but a ghastly journey into the dark world where ugly man-size dolls with empty eye-sockets stared at him with a sinister smile on their face.

Stricken with morbid fear, he ran for his life through a seemingly endless series of dark rooms, tripping over body parts scattered all around.

And then he woke up, screaming.

The horrific nightmare left my friend soaked in sweat. And that was the moment when he decided to stop using digital drugs.

That led me to Hassan Al Ajmi, a cyber security specialist, who spent a good four months researching digital drugs and their effects on the human body.

Digital drugs, also known as binaural beats, are sounds that are thought to be capable of changing brain wave patterns, according to Al Ajmi.

He said the technology was used initially to treat mental diseases and people who suffer from epilepsy.

Unfortunately, many are tuning in to the beats to get them high through elimination of extraneous thought that is believed to enhance their capacity to dream and the quality of their sleep.

Digital drugs are free and way more accessible than real-world narcotics. You just have to hook up to the internet and switch on the headphones.

“So far, there’s no scientific evidence to prove that digital drugs are harmful or that they cause addiction,” Al Ajmi said.

But it could get the teens curious about real-world drugs.

“These beats, which can last for hours, send wave patterns through sharp buzzes that exhaust the mind in order to induce a deep state of meditation,” he added.

Al Ajmi said getting used to tiring the brain may lead to long-term issues.

“Lebanon is the first and only Arab country that launched a national campaign to combat the use of digital drugs and to raise awareness about this growing trend,” Al Ajmi explained.

But despite that, websites such as YouTube allows users to post hours of videos playing different tones of binaural beats that their makers claim can heal the body and increase people’s sleeping hours.

However, Al Ajmi explained that some users access the deep web to purchase high quality beats to “enjoy a better experience”.

When I told Al Ajmi about my friend’s experience, which resulted in a sleep paralysis, he replied: “Two other young Omanis had a similar issue and they started using digital drugs to escape reality. One was a college student who suffered from depression and was under a lot of work pressure.”

He added that abusing such drugs puts extra pressure on the human brain.

While we can’t tell yet if digital drugs are being widely used in the Sultanate, and if they can cause a real harm, it may be time to put in more effort to keep track of the menace to protect people from the dangers of the new craze.

Two other young Omanis had a similar issue and they started using digital drugs to escape reality. One was a college student who suffered from depression and was under a lot of work pressure

facts

✺ BINAURAL BEATS CAN BE FOUND LEGALLY ON POPULAR WEBSITES SUCH AS YOUTUBE. ✺ THERE IS NO SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE ABOUT HOW HARMFUL OR USEFUL THEY CAN BE. ✺ LAST YEAR, LEBANON LAUNCHED A CAMPAIGN TO COMBAT THE USAGE OF DIGITAL DRUGS. ✺ SOME BINAURAL BEATS CAN LAST FOR MORE THAN 10 HOURS. ✺ SOME USERS CLAIM THAT THESES BEATS HELPED THEM TO ENHANCE THEIR FOCUSING AND THINKING, OTHERS CLAIM THAT THEY SUFFERED FROM NIGHTMARES. ✺ MOST RESEARCHERS AGREE THAT DIGITAL DRUGS, UNLIKE NARCOTICS, DO NOT CAUSE ADDICTION. AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

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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

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• 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 • Chevrolet/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 Al Mouj Muscat • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • Al Mouj Muscat

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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Adventures

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Cars

Y- F i

Gaming

DAZZLING DISCOVERY

Alvin Thomas falls in love with the versatile Disco. The all-new SUV is one of the best in the world. –P34

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E S T I N AT I O N C a r s

P o s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y- F i

Destination

RUINS OF FANJA

THE MOUNTAINS WILL SPELL OUT YOUR DREAM AND DESTINATION, FIGURATIVELY AND LITERALLY. SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI HEADS BACK INTO THE FORGOTTEN LANDS TO EXPLORE THE MYSTERY AND HISTORY OF THE FAMED RUINS Words: Alvin Thomas Photos: Shaquel Al Balushi

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Gaming

persevere.

Proceeding forwards, we first climb up some steps — all beaten — by the frequent visitors and residents of the area.

Be sure to mind your step if you head here, as a fall could be life threatening. But after a bit of trekking, we come across a rocky hill. It is a relatively tiring climb, but the view waiting atop makes everything worth it.

We are treated to a beautiful sight: ruins of the longstanding forts that we are in search of. I even notice some rusty cannons pointing out over the town, further highlighting how important Fanja was to the history of Oman. I also explore the rooms in the fort — and click photos inside them for you — to get a perspective of how life would have been for soldiers who were guarding the region.

Unsurprisingly, in less than 10 minutes, I get tired of the heat and head back out.

It is from here that I capture my favourite image: the grove of palm trees, the mosque and the village, all outlined by the beautiful mountains.

TRAVEL GUIDE

W

ait, wait! Before you go up in arms accusing me of repeating another Destination article [from Issue 480, July 27], let me explain myself.

You see, after my last week’s trip to find the gorgeous wadi of Fanja, I couldn’t help myself from heading back there, this week, to do a bit of exploring in the underlying village in the area.

I’ve been there a couple of times — mostly to the bustling streets of the souk in Fanja — in search of food and water, but never into the heart of the village… and not ever into the forgotten lands of Fanja.

Joining me on my escapade is my mate Imran, who (embarrassingly!) said that he too had never been there despite visiting the wadis in the area frequently.

As always, we start at the break of dawn to avoid any of that annoying highway traffic.

It doesn’t take us long, as the route is fairly straightforward: on a good day, you can enter the town in under an hour, and once you near the location, the mountains spell out the area for you… literally! No, really. “Fanja” is written out in Arabic using white stones.

But, from there the going gets tough for us, as we circle the village for more than an hour searching for the road that leads to the ruins — the fortified area that Fanja was historically known for.

Clever (yes, I’m sarcastic) Imran also advises me against asking for any directions, so we find ourselves lost and without any clue of where we are. But, an hour and 10 minutes into our search, I find a narrow road that leads to the mosque, and subsequently, the beautiful stretch of ruins.

The mosque is guarded by a blue door, and you should aim for it when heading here. In any case, ecstatic that we are back on track, we ditch our SUV, and decide to head to the ruins on foot.

The hot day does not make life easier for both of us, but we

From atop the fort, I can also see the reflection of the serene waters on the mountains that sends me into a state of calmness and tranquillity.

It is also here that we decide to camp for a while; have our soft drinks and chips.

And because there are not many cars around, there is none of that nonsensical automotive commotion, either.

It’s just a very nice place to be; maybe even a place for detoxifying from one’s daily tensions and stresses.

We lay there for a good 30 minutes before heading down.

Meanwhile, Imran also looks out for a waterfall, which has featured in the photographs of many people who have visited the region. But all in vain.

And since it is getting late, we decide to ditch it and go in search of it another time.

The locals, however, are very helpful and will give you the location.

Keep in mind that you will need to converse with them in Arabic, so you will need a local along with you. Else, be prepared to use sign language.

But all in all a day well spent, and definitely a village that I will suggest my friends to visit.

HOW TO GET THERE Take the expressway out of Muscat and stay on it until the exit for road 15. Stay on this road for 30km until you see the exit for Fanja.

GPS location of the turning for Fanja: N23° 28’ 1”; E58° 7’ 52”

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FIRST DRIVE

CARS ADVENTURES

Photos: Govind Gopinath

Q

Enormously capable and versatile in design, the fifth generation beauty will do anything you ask it to. Alvin Thomas bonds with the all-new Disco for a silky smooth dance on the road and the beach

uick question. If the successor of the Land Rover LR3 is the Land Rover LR4, name the descendant of the latter.

Well, if you said Land Rover LR5, then you’re out of the game. Why? Because the boffins at Land Rover seem to think that the answer to the question has nothing to do with a numeral at all. As a matter of fact, the actual answer to my question is: The Land Rover Discovery.

Yeah, it makes no sense to me either. But bear with me, here. For I think it’s not right to throw shade on this new contender from the great land of England.

Or to rephrase it in simpler terms, the new Land Rover Discovery is all aces. And you know what?

I hail the company’s decision to drop that damp squib “LR” moniker to resurrect the ‘Discovery’ nameplate and get serious.

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You heard me right, folks! The “Disco” is back, and it’s here to seize back its share from those pesky, yet overtly capable, Asian and German off-roaders; and funnily enough, a share that has long been associated with the Disco’s bigger brother: Range Rover.

It looks its part, too. The Land Rover Discovery, with its new styling, looks (unmistakably) like a Range Rover –at least from some angles –and that’s definitely a good thing. I cannot even begin to tell you how many cars swerved out of my path; it really has prodigious amount of road presence.

My tester car –which was finished in almost navy blue colour –looked spectacular in person. And because it was loaded with all the optional goodies like the LED headlights and massive 54cm alloys, it also looked premium.

The lights, especially in LED form factor, look very much like that of the Range Rover: stretched over length into an almost-wedge-like shape, and garnished on the edges with daytime running LED lamps.

Apart from that, the front fascia is rather plain, with only a couple of intakes on either side, Land Rover’s traditional grille, and two small strips of LED fog lamps.

The side profile of the Disco remains bare, too, aside from the grey plastic panels that have ‘Discovery’ badges etched on them. The large windows

and the overly tall stance of the stepped roof are concealed rather well by the dark colour on my tester, but I suppose lighter shades could really undo that impression.

The rear end, however, is where the Disco takes all its censure: its hind is lanky, and the number plate takes an awkward offset position on the tailgate. But indubitably, there’s beauty in it, too. For instance, the thin, fashionable LED taillights, and the rugged black plastic panels on the bumper round off the rather juxtaposed design of the posterior of this SUV. Hey, if it works… Thankfully, unlike the smaller Land Rover Discovery Sport crossover, the Disco classifies as a full-blown off roader, even though it is now based on a uni-body platform.

Moving over to the interior reveals a rather minimalist cabin. It’s light years ahead of its overly complicated predecessor, and more in line with the manufacturer’s new cabin-design philosophy, as seen in the bigger Range Rovers and Jaguar sedans.

You get a beautifully laid out leatherette cabin, splashed with soft-touch surfaces on the upper portions of the dashboard and centre console.

There are hard plastics, too, but it is confined to panels below your waist, so that everything you immediately touch and feel is plush.

As expected, you also get JLR’s signature gear knob –the one that rises slowly from the centre panel upon starting the SUV, as well as the stupendous and responsive 26cm wide touchscreen entertainment unit, with a booming 14-speaker Meridian sound system (with a subwoofer!). The sound system is by far one of the best I have tested.

Unlike most SUVs, stepping inside the cabin

Destination

P o s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y- F i

Meanwhile, if you’re loaded with money, you can also opt for the waterproof wristband, Land Rover’s legendary heads-up display, the convenient foot-waving powertailgate opening, two rows of heated/cooled seats with “winged” headrests, and a lot more.

Underneath the hood lies a Jaguar-sourced 3.0-litre supercharged V6 engine, pumping out a hefty 335hp and 450Nms of grunt. The latter is what gives the Disco its gruff, however, the engine sounds soulful –much like what you will hear in a Jaguar sedan. And because much of the torque lies in the 3500 to 5000rpm band, you will have to pump up the revs to get the engine to thrust you forwards; it’s a unique feeling.

The superb powertrain is rounded off by an eight-speed “ZF” automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels via Land Rover’s “trick” differential. All of this translated to a time of 7.9 seconds during my sprint from naught to 100kph. But I must say that the power delivery is linear, and the gear ratios apt for brisk acceleration despite the 2.2 tonnes of metal it has to lug around.

As expected from a vehicle of this size, there is a fair amount of body roll while cornering. However, the results are nowhere close, and is much, much better than what you can expect from a similarly sized (stock) Asian rival.

The Germans can take corners harder, but there’s none in this class and price point that can rival the Disco off-road.

The ride, however, is silky smooth. Actually, let me rephrase that: the Disco has one of the best ride qualities is quite an easy task, thanks to the side-steps (an I have ever experienced in an SUV. It’s miles ahead extra-cost option). But, if need be, the Disco can of the Range Rover, even with its large 285/40 also crouch down for people to enter or raise up for tyres. All credit goes to the air suspension that is loading or unloading heavy cargo, tuned for comfort. Wind noise is THE LAND ROVER DISCOVERY kept to a minimum, too. courtesy the air suspension.

— WITH ITS RANGE ROVERThere’s plenty of cabin space to As for the steering; it’s a tad ESQUE LOOKS, OFF-ROAD play with: space in the first and vague, with no feedback translating CAPABILITIES, PRACTICALITY, to the driver whatsoever. But, it second row are in plentiful, and AND AFFORDABLE PRICE TAG is perfectly weighted, remaining there’s enough headroom for a — MAY VERY WELL BE THE BEST heavy on the highway and light for large group of circus clowns to BET FOR THOSE NOT LOOKING city driving. play in. Space in the third row TO SPEND A FORTUNE ON A is limited, but I could fit inside The brakes are strong and linear PREMIUM SUV without any hiccups, and the in stopping power, but the pedal panoramic sunroof and the enormous glass helps curb seemed dampened –possibly to avoid the driver from claustrophobia. upsetting the balance of the car while braking.

The seats are quite large –more like a throne even – Oh, but don’t for a second think that the Disco isn’t providing a very commanding feel when on the road. But capable off-road. There’s a galore of computer-operated I must say that the riding position isn’t as commanding as off-road nannies such as a terrain-management system, say, a Range Rover Vogue. The seats are well bolstered, electronically selected low-range gearing, all-terrain crawl even in the second and third row, and hug the passengers control, hill-descent control, gradient-release control, in place even while cornering hard. and an air suspension system that can raise the vehicle by Boot space is great with the third-row seats down, 40mm to 75mm depending on your speed. and you can also fold flat the second row to gain more I didn’t dare take the Disco off the tarmac, except for a space to transport a couple of large bicycles or even a photoshoot on the beach. And I can report that the SUV kayak. There are also several –and by several, I mean can take even the deepest and softest of sands without an abundance of –storage bins in the Disco. You get a hitch. I’ve also been told by fellow off-road enthusiasts your usual two cup holders in the front, door pockets and cubbies; but that isn’t all.

Underneath the cup holders lies a large storage compartment; one above the glove box and one hidden behind the a/c controls.

Gaming

CARS

Land Rover Discovery Specifications: Engine: 3.0-litre “supercharged” V6 Transmission: eight-speed “ZF”automatic Horsepower: 335hp Torque: 450Nm Top speed: 209kph Panoramic sunroof Rear sensors and camera Leatherette upholstery Four-wheel drive Traction control Stability control LED headlights, tail lights and foglamps Air suspension 54cms alloys Smart key Meridian audio system 26cms touchscreen

that the Disco –while resembling a city cruiser –still possesses excellent capabilities on tricky tarmac.

So, is it the perfect SUV that you can buy, today?

Well, you see, that’s a tough call (at least for me). Ever since I laid my hands on a Range Rover, I’ve been in love with it. Heck, I even have posters of the Range Rover Sport SVR in my bedroom –like a 12-year-old kid would do so.

But, if anything, the Land Rover Discovery –with its Range Roveresque looks, off-road capabilities, practicality, and affordable price tag –may very well be the best bet for those not looking to spend a fortune on a premium SUV. Then, the Disco is by all means what the doctor ordered.

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CARS ADVENTURES

1. Explore electrifying after-dark entertainment in Taipei 2. Get on a mountain bike and revel in the rough terrain 3. Head for Yehliu Geopark and enjoy the beauty of naturally formed rocks, stretching 1,700 metres into the ocean 4. Get to the Yehliu Ocean World and swim with the exotic marine life 5. Shop till you drop and then savour the delicious street food

TAIPEI

The Taipei 101 megastructure stands tall amidst all other buildings in the capital city of Taiwan.

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Destination

Cars

Y-Fi

Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

Jay Black recommends

TAIWAN F

ood, culture, fantastic nightlife, an affordable rate of exchange and friendly people, Taiwan is a small island that packs a big punch. The breathtaking island is host to a variety of terrain such as green mountains with rich flora and fauna, sea, natural hot springs and a lake surrounded by forests. A nature lover or a shopaholic, a foodie or an adventure seeker, Taiwan is a perfect destination for a holiday of a lifetime for all.

The island offers excellent conditions for a range of activities like mountain biking, kayaking, paragliding and surfing. Thanks to an extensive network of national parks, scenic areas and forest reserves, Taiwan also offers hiking and trekking.

With its hilly terrain and extensive trail network, Taiwan is the world’s top mountain biking destination.

Sun Moon Lake, a major tourist attraction located in Yuchi Township, is the only natural big lake in Taiwan. It is named after its sun and moon-shaped lakes-which are encircled by breathtaking green mountains. Taiwan has eight national parks which have a variety of topographic landscapes like volcanic craters, deep slopes, lakes, white corals and shell beaches.

Located between Taipei and Keelung, in the town of Wanli, is Yehliu Geopark where tourists can enjoy the scenic beauty of the naturally formed rocks, stretching approximately 1,700 metres into the ocean.

A trip to Yehliu Geopark is incomplete without visiting the Yehliu Ocean World, where tourists can get a glimpse of its exotic marine life.

Ranked among the world’s top 15 hot spring destinations, Taiwan has a great variety of springs, including hot springs, cold springs, mud springs and seabed hot springs amidst mesmerising scenic areas.

Taipei - the capital city of Taiwan- has exciting nightlife to offer tourists.

Starting from shopping to satiating your belly with mouth watering Taiwanese cuisine, the nightlife of Taiwan is fantastic.

My favourite place Shilin Night Market, the largest night market in Taipei, and Keelung Miaokou Night Market, where you will find clothes, jewellery, household items, toys and interesting gadgets, all at pocket friendly price. No street shopping is complete without street food such as stinky tofu, oyster omelette, pearl milk tea, fried prawns and spicy meat and desserts such as flavoured shaved ice and fresh fruits.

Y E H L IU

GEOPA

RK

E R N S IN SKY LANT S T IV A L FE LANTERN

Highlights Taiwan has two certification boards; the Taiwan Halal Integrity Development Association (THID) and the

Chinese Muslim Association. There are two kinds of certification, “halal restaurants” for those owned by Muslims, and “Muslim-friendly restaurants” for halal outlets owned by non-Muslims. Since both these certificates confirm the halal status of the restaurant, Muslim tourists looking for a restaurant to dine at could now look for the logos displayed at these outlets before dining. The halal logos displayed at the restaurants and the helpful information found online regarding these outlets make it easier to plan a trip to the island nation.

You can also download the HalalTrip app. This application not only locates the nearest Halal restaurant but also helps to locate nearby mosque and prayer facilities.

Lowlights

Thanks to its strategic location, Taiwan is home to international cuisines. However, numerous cases of food adultration, resulting in food poisoning have been reported.

Souvenirs The massive upscale mall in Taipei 101 is home to luxurious brands. A haven for fashion lovers, Zhonxgiao E Road is where the huge SOGO department stores offers majority of international brands. Small alleys bursting with top-notch retailers offer fabulous choices at affordable prices for souvenir hunters. Taiwan’s night markets also offer fantastic deals on fashionable clothes, bags, shoes and other accessories.

Getting there The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Taiwan has expanded its e-visa programme and included nationals from all the six Arab Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

STREE

T FOOD

Where to stay Anywhere close to the Taipei 101. Staying in the hotels within the city will be quite expensive but well worth your money. The Grand Hyatt Taipei adjacent to the superstructure is an easy bet for tourists.

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Destination

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

HOT SOUND

Whether you want to buy a speaker that you can take on holiday or to the park, Matthew Herbst finds a few sounds to match your digital needs

IN CHARGE The JBL Charge 3 offers excellent sound quality which is hard to beat. It hits all the pitches, and plays loudly without distortion. Specifically, the Charge line of speakers have been highly recommended and JBL maintains its dominance in the portable Bluetooth speaker market. It offers 20 hours of battery life with a wireless range of around 10 metres. At www.amazon.com from RO50

BOOM BOOM This UE Boom nails it to the maximum when it comes to how a Bluetooth speaker should be. It is very loud, yet delivers the bass and detailed sounds that won’t get lost amid the background white noise. Of course it is portable, but tough and durable. Plus, even better, it is also waterproof. Battery life is approximately 15 hours and wireless range is 10 metres. At amazon.com from RO57.50

BOSE BOSS The Bose SoundLink Mini II is not really a newbie on the market as it was released in June 2015. However, forgetting about this sound blaster would be an epic mistake, because it is by far one of the best sounding wireless speakers available. Even though it is tiny, it produces deep bass, sparkling highs and a subtle midrange. The Mini II proves that small speakers don’t need to compromise on sound. Battery life is approximately 10 hours and wireless range is 10 metres. At amazon.com from RO65

SAY WHO?

EDITOR’S PICK

MEET FUGOO, PROBABLY ONE OF THE BLUETOOTH SPEAKER MARKET'S BEST-KEPT SECRETS. THE FUGOO COMES IN YOUR CHOICE OF JACKET STYLE TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS IN TERMS OF STYLE, WHETHER YOU’RE TOUGH OR SPORTY. HOWEVER, NO MATTER WHICH ONE YOU OPT FOR, IT IS JUST AS SUITED FOR SITTING ON A TABLE AT HOME. EVEN THOUGH IT IS TINY IT OFFERS SURPRISINGLY BIG SOUND PERFORMANCE, WITH A HUGE 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE IF YOU LISTEN TO IT AT MEDIUM VOLUME. IF YOU CRANK IT UP, YOU’RE EXPECTED TO GET AROUND 20 HOURS. ITS WIRELESS RANGE IS APPROXIMATELY 10 METRES. AT AMAZON.COM FROM RO34

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JULY AUG 0303 -- 0909 // ISSUE ISSUE 481 327

Best superhero game you can buy today

The world’s best detective gets hold of some of the most innovative weapons to deal with the bad guys. Alvin Thomas walks into the room and brawl with the buttons to emerge empowered BATMAN: ARKHAM CITY Batman: Arkham City isn’t simply a case of ‘if you liked X, you’ll love Y’.

But, fret not, for superhero games really do not get any better than this.

As a matter of fact, Batman: Arkham City is by far the most sought-after action game since Metal Gear Solid Snake, from the early 2000s.

The concept of Arkham City remains true to its predecessor — the Batman: Akham Asylum — from 2009. But, it betters the former in every single aspect: the graphics are mindblowingly accurate (almost life-like), and gone are the lifeless and tacky controls.

Every button you click translates to a dedicated, tactical move. Thankfully, you also won’t find yourself swinging arms and legs in thin air while your enemy takes a nice long swing at you with his (yeah, it’s almost always a man) baseball bat; moves are accurately aligned with the targets this time around.

Despite that, the centerpieces of the game are the neatly flowed storyline, the brilliant voice acting, and the superior physics engine (Unreal Engine 3).The latter even makes way for some unbelievably stylish, yet accurate, fighting moves.

I rarely encountered any hiccups throughout the course of

App of the Week

DEEZER Deezer for Android or iOS is a popular music streaming option, with users able to stream an unlimited amount of music on their desktop or mobile. If using your smartphone, you can access the Deezer signature Flow, which is like a personalised stream of music that adapts to the songs you like. It will then suggest artists or albums to your liking. If you subscribe to their premium subscription plan it will remove the annoying adverts that break the flow as well as improve audio quality. Check it out on iTunes or Google Play for free

the game, and found each action to be visually satisfying — if a bit too sadistic… even by DC standards.

Oh, and if that wasn’t enough, in Arkham City, the world’s best detective also gets hold of some of the most innovative weapons you can come across. Yep! Night vision, UV and infrared goggles; sonic and reverse batarangs, disruptor, remote electrical charges, smoke pellet and so much more is at your disposal.

Why so many toys, you ask? Just take a look at the lineup of villains.

And if you’re wondering why there are so many villains, keep in mind that you are, after all, in the vicinity of Arkham Asylum.

This is what the Batman movies should always have been. Game 1, Movie 0.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

“CHECK” ME OUT

Patterns come in different styles, but classic checks are something that never run out of style or fashion, like this Katrina Dress from Pretty Eccentric.

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

k o o L e h

aran K e tin hris C , t ry tree esto s o h h g s e hi rmy h a t e o t H end e look. ram h g g hi th the to get n Insta m Fro s you tine o Simple and elegant, this is help w Chr blue Gabriela Hearst o l l Jordan skirt is a perfect o F outfit for a brunch with

T t Ge

friends. Pair it with a simple white tee and you are good to go. Buy it from ModaOperandi.com

Forego the jeans and bring back the classic.

This trouser is perfect attire for a party. Pair it with a white sailor’s shirt or a sequence top, and you are ready. Buy these chic trousers from Debenhams at RO14

Bored of a dress? Bored of a tee shirt?

How about a cute combo of tee shirt dress from New Look? This is a modern and edgy fashionessential. Price not available.

Very modern and very chic, this black and red classic check tweed top from Oscar De La Renta can be paired with anything. Available at ModaOperandi.com Keep your lips bright and bold as your character with this ultra moisturising Sheen Supreme lipstick from M.A.C Cosmetics. Shop it from your nearest M.A.C store.

Nothing can beat the timeless black shoes.

This is a basic and an essential.

Buy it from Monsoon at RO28

Fashion fusion is always fashion forward. Pair your tweedchecked dress with this ultra modern cross body bang from ZARA and make heads turn. Buy it at RO15.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

SUMMER

TRICKS

FOR FUSS-FREE STYLE Four simple ways to get the gorgeous glow and glamour in the sticky heat of August

A

carefree summery style may appear effortless, but creating a look that stands up to a busy, fun-filled day still requires some simple work. Keep your skin in top condition and your hair and makeup on point with these tips from the beauty experts at Macy’s to help you look and feel your best.

Protect your skin. If there's only one skin care product you use, it has to be sunscreen. Not only is daily SPF important for avoiding sunburns, it also helps prevent wrinkles and spots caused by sun damage. Apply early and often, and don’t be fooled by a cloudy day. Even when skies are overcast, those UV rays can inflict plenty of harm. If you’ll be out for an extended period, consider a stylish hat to lend extra protection to your scalp, ears and face. Also remember to cover or apply sunscreen to oftenoverlooked places, such as the tops of your feet.

Get that glow. While you're using sunscreen to prevent damage, adding a bronzer to your daily routine can help give you that sun-kissed glow. Preventing sun damage doesn’t have to mean looking less than golden. Create the look of 042

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

healthy radiance with Clarins Sunkissed Summer Bronzer Compact. This trio of tropical leafembossed powders warms the complexion while an iridescent pop of coral brings a beachy glow to cheeks.

Go for all-day eyes. When you’re embracing a laid-back look, a fully done eye can be overkill. A basic tint and some mascara is a simple way to achieve a puttogether but fuss-free style. Using a waterproof formula can give you the confidence that your lashes are in perfect condition and ready for whatever the day may bring.

If you have a favourite formula, check to see whether a waterproof version is available.

Make it matte. For lip colour that lasts from sunrise to moonlight, matte lipstick is the real deal. In addition to being long-lasting, matte lipsticks pack an intense punch of color perfect for a bright and cheerful lip. If a little sparkle or shine is more your thing, go ahead and add a light layer of clear gloss and give yourself bonus points if one layer or both include SPF. Source: Family Features

Beauty

HEALTH

Fashion

Disc-over

YOUR RELIEF

Do dry mouth and plaque disturb you?

Stick these discs to the teeth or the gums and smile, day and night

R

esearchers at the University of California, Irvine, analysed the effects of OraCoatXyliMelts oral adhering discs on people affected by clinically diagnosed dry mouth.

The study showed that the discs reduce tooth plaque by 58 per cent and improve the ability to eat and swallow for those affected by dry mouth.

XyliMelts is a patented dry mouth product that sticks to the gums outside of a molar, releasing one-half gram of Xylitol, which stimulates saliva, and cellulose gum which, combined with saliva, forms a lubricating gel.

The 21-day clinical study evaluated the effects of XyliMelts on saliva production and the ability to neutralise acids, as well as patient comfort. The study was administered to five test subjects who used the remedy as recommended: two discs while sleeping, one on each side of the mouth, and as needed during the day. On average, the subjects used four discs each day during daytime hours.

Results showed that the product significantly reduced sleep disruption by lasting for six hours while sleeping when dry mouth is at its worst, while improving mouth wetness in the morning. It also diminished tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, and spicy foods and drinks.

The discs more than doubled saliva production while in place, and increased the ability of saliva to neutralise acids that cause tooth decay. Most importantly, the test displayed that subjects using XyliMelts in conjunction with standard oral care showed heightened saliva flow compared to standard oral care alone.

Overall, subject feedback to XyliMelts was positive, with subjects stating that they would continue using the discs while recommending them to others.

Subjects also reported XyliMelts as easy to use with a favourable taste and overall mouth feel.

Source: NewsUSA AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

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FOOD DRINK

Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

EASY COOKING

Check out these smart and easy cooking tips that you can pull together to prepare delicious foods.

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Grilled Cheese and Pepperoni Sandwiches Prep time: 5 minutes Total time: 15 minutes Servings: 4

A

Ingredients: § 2 tablespoons butter or margarine § 8 slices white or whole-grain bread § 8 slices cheddar or American cheese § 32 slices Armour Original or Turkey Pepperoni § 1 cup roasted red pepper strips or 4 thin tomato slices (optional)

-plus

ideas for SMART MEALS

Method: § Spread the butter over one side of each piece of the bread. Put four slices of the bread on a sheet of waxed paper, buttered-side down. § Top each slice of the bread with one cheese slice, eight slices pepperoni, 1/4 cup peppers or sliced tomato, if desired, and an additional cheese slice. Top the sandwiches with the remaining bread, buttered-side up. § Heat a large, nonstick frying pan over a medium heat. Add two sandwiches; cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are golden brown. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches. § Alternative preparation tip: Cook the sandwiches in two batches in a heated panini maker or a well-oiled waffle iron for 3-4 minutes.

Cheesy Mac and Meatballs

Versatile tricks and easy tips to pull together delicious foods when pinched for time in a busy school year

E

ase your way into a busy new school year with easy dishes you can prepare and serve in minutes. Time-saving and delicious dinners allow you to enjoy valuable family meals without sacrificing precious time in the kitchen.

One smart way to pull together flavourful meals when you’re pinched for time is to keep versatile ingredients on hand that you can use in a variety of ways. For example, pre-sliced pepperoni is perfect for quick snacks, but it’s also great for do-it-yourself pizzas, casseroles and even a fresh take on grilled cheese sandwiches. An option like Armour Turkey Pepperoni can brighten up any appetizer or dish with 70 percent less fat and 25 percent less sodium than the Original variety.

Another “A-plus” idea: keep frozen meatballs handy, but think beyond traditional spaghetti. Not only do fully cooked meatballs save plenty of time, they make for a fun way to add protein and bring great flavour to kid favourites like macaroni and cheese. * Family Features

Prep time: 5 minutes Total time: 15 minutes Servings: 5 Ingredients: § 340g ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked § 1 package (397g) Armour Original Meatballs, thawed § 340g ounces shredded cheddar cheese § 1 cup milk shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)

Method: § Cook the pasta according to package directions. Cut the meatballs in half. § In a large saucepan over a medium heat, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and milk, stirring until smooth. Stir in the meatballs; cover and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the meatballs are hot. § Drain the macaroni and stir into the meatball mixture. Top with cheddar cheese, if desired.

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FOOD DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

REVIEWS

et g d Bu ndly Frie Info Box

MIDAN HOTEL

Al Ghubra Opening Hours: 9:00am to 11:30pm Tel: 92408212 Dinner for four: RO7.7

PURSE-FIT DELIGHTS

Verdict : 6/10 SERVICE 8/10 FOOD 3/10 AMBIENCE Vegan friendly, dirt-cheap and tastes like wholeheartedly home-cooked food Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

HASAN AL LAWATI AND FRIENDS INDULGE IN A SPOT OF AFRICAN CUISINE IN AL GHUBRA THAT ALSO OFFERS A VARIETY OF AUTHENTIC OMANI DELIGHTS.

F

or incredibly affordable food, seek out the famed Africa Restaurant and Coffee Shop for Zanzibar Food (I know, the name sounds like a job description) in Al Ghubra. After my first — and surely not last— visit to the eatery, all I can say is that, among I ENVY AL GHUBRA RESIDENTS Oman’s most beloved cheap eats, this restaurant is FOR HAVING SUCH A PLACE IN a crowd-favourite.

THEIR NEIGHBOURHOOD THAT Located near the Al Ghubra traffic lights on OFFERS THEM DAILY SUPPLIES OF November 18th Street, the restaurant offers a FRESH AND DELICIOUS FOOD AT variety of authentic Omani delights and at a real COMPETITIVE PRICES bargain that made sharing the bill unnecessary for me and my three friends. It was so much affordable that one of the friends came forward to foot the entire bill.

While a ‘self-service’ sign was hung on the window, the staff were friendly and patient to guide us through the menu.

We spent around two hours there, and during that time there were at least two takeaway orders every five minutes, which tells you quite a bit about the popularity of the place and its reasonable prices.

The eatery offers a wide and comfortable space dish (I did not dare to try that), the restaurant and a spacious parking lot, but it is more of a offers many animal-free meals that even the most takeout joint.

Apart from the exotic Africa’s banana with meat committed carnivore might not be able to resist.

We ordered curry and potato, stewed vegetables, kachori (spicy potato), chicken samosa, meat curry, dal (lentin), chapatti bread and three different kinds of pastries.

The potato was tender and the curry was flavourful. The stewed vegetables, my friend’s order, were blissfully melting in my mouth.

Their kachori, a spicy Indian snack, was my favourite, a must-eat for anyone who plans to go there. For drinks, we ordered two pineapple juices but my friend was keen on trying their passion fruit juice which, unfortunately, they did not have at that time. For desserts, we had custard, 046

AUG 03 - 09 / ISSUE 481

which was all right, and which complemented the delicious starters and main dishes.

However, when it comes to presentation, this is not the most Instagram-friendly place in Muscat as the food is served directly (and generously) from the buffet.

In general, the food tasted like it was homecooked and we ate like kings for just RO7.7!

Not that he saved much of our budget, a friend decided to take care of the bill to mark his birthday, lucky me!

“It’s one of the few places in Muscat where a vegetarian can eat fresh and to full belly and for a low-cost price,” my friend, Irina, said.

Yashwan, her husband, fell in love with his meat curry and Marlen polished her plate which was, not long ago, full of tempting pastries and yummy dal. I am seriously planning to pay another visit to the restaurant to test their Mandazi, a banana delight with meat and spaghetti and white sauce.

Overall, I envy Al Ghubra residents for having such a place in their neighbourhood that offers them daily supplies of fresh and delicious food at competitive prices.

Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com

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