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EVERY THURSDAY KITTING OUT YOUR NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA KID FOR CLASS ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR News: GIRL, 6, SEVERELY INJURED AFTER BEING HIT BY A SCHOOL BUS FEATURE: Drowning In Debt. How Oman Is Overspending ADVENTURE: Hiking With The Ladies Of Muscat
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YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK
APR 16 - 22 2015 / ISSUE 366 • WEEKLY
A Nation
Photo: Chris Kutschera ©
BLOOMS
PLUS!
Y’S EXCLUSIVE PHOTO JOURNEY INTO OMAN’S PAST
01
FIND OUT HOW TO WIN NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258
A CAR FROM CITY CENTRE BY FLICKING THE MAGAZINE’S PAGES FROM BACK TO FRONT
BABY MAMA
The news that Annegret Raunigk, a 65-year-old mother of 13 children from Berlin, is adding to her brood with not one, but four babies has raised eyebrows around the world. The teacher, who is due to retire this year, will become the oldest women to ever give birth to quads, if all four babies are born successfully. Her eldest child is 44.
THE BAROMETER GOING UP
TEMPERATURES Is it us or has someone suddenly turned up the heat overnight? One day it’s pleasantly warm and the next, the mercury is nudging 40 degrees. You’re too early summer! Come back later.
EDITOR’S
NOTE
Welcome to Y Magazine - your top guide to the best of Oman every week.
Fast forward C
GOING DOWN
OUR PATIENCE See above. This heat is making us grouchy as we boil in sweat and humidity. As the temperature gets hotter, so do tempers. We’ve seen a few road rage run-ins this week. Time for everyone to cool down a little.
apturing a specific moment by camera means that it is forever frozen in time, ensuring that it will never be forgotten. Each photograph is like a little gem of history and the exclusive images we publish in Y this week are a case in point. Our candid image on the front page of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said was taken at a private garden party in 1970 as the country celebrated a new beginning. It was one of those off-guard moments, charming for its informality yet sense of occasion. The colours, people and setting all evoke the mood of the moment and the year. Inside, our photo feature continues with a spread of stunning vintage black and white images, all taken in Oman during the 1970s, giving never-before-seen glimpses of the Sultanate. In this issue, we’re also taking a look at how debt is beginning to pile up for people in Oman, with many taking out loans and credit cards, only to find themselves struggling to make repayments. More than RO520 million worth of loans have been defaulted on in the last three years in the Sultanate. Perhaps it’s time to take a look at your spending. Elsewhere, we go hiking with the GALS adventure group, head up Jebel Akhdar in Destination and discover a new side to Johannesburg. Happy reading!
THIS WEEK…
Team Y
editor@y-oman.com
Team Y has visited the exquisite Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque in Muscat, eaten sushi and had a movie marathon, watching classics like WALL-E and Groundhog Day.
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P.s. Our managing editor, Felicity, is still on holiday. She’ll be back next week. EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi MANAGING EDITOR Felicity Glover
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DEPUTY EDITOR Kate Ginn ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst FOLLOW US ON:
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Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman. APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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contents
APRIL 16 - 22 2015
Your Oman 06 Coffee With Deeba Ahmed Abdulqader 10 News Six-Year-Old In Bus Accident 14 Gallery Oman In Focus
Feature 20 The Big Balancing Act People In Debt 24 Retro Oman Exclusive Photos Of Times Gone By
This week 17 Movie Listings The Cobbler
27 Waiting To Win Joining In At The Hospi-Expo 2015
24
18 This Week Love Ballet
16 Gallery Shopping Exhibition
Cars and Adventures
18
Food and Drink 28 Food Feature Five Reasons To Love Milk
38 Destination The Roses Of Akhdar
Health and Beauty
30 Taste Test Chez Sushi
28
32 Fashion Cool For School
40 Outdoors Girls On Tour 42 Postcard From Johannesburg, South Africa
44 Y-Fi Family Tech 34 Beauty Luscious Lashes 46 Car Of The Week Mitsubishi Pajero 2014 36 Health
Bridging The Gap
33
45
NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE... CANINE CAPERS / WADI AL KHOUDH / HOT FASHION / ON THE ROAD / MOVIES / EVENTS / TASTE TEST
der, an med Abdulqa h A h it w n w o on was in Oman a Hasan sits d o eb h e w D r k e e h e p w ra is g Th mato aker and cine Emirati filmm project song an interesting released, and the HEART
gets Programme h n through there is stuff to ter ith perfect Englishes, (Healing and Educatioch has hi w e, iv at iti in do with video af s) and western clot rt the A teachers 90 s, rd ol ha ho sc be d 33 this,” he says. you’ supported nt in Jordan and n re ild ch This was not ect in 0 pushed to pinpoi 00 4, and oj ed hm A y tr un hm A ed’s first pr . He has Palestine. e id exactly which co m, but when er ov ev pr w to ho Oman, “The idea was an food e Sultanate Abdulqader is froa quick coffee her th ot r been based in thoducing films for ng fo hi n et w m do so t as e we sa w th pr ch , of hi re t w fo flew ou twice be and medical aid,her sources. This nd Rover. In shortly before be ear-old Emirati ot Siemens and La keen to have m th -y bo fro g 34 in e m th y, co tr he as w coun ided them [t renowned each film, Ahmedion with the local programme provsafe environment showcased somelity, putting me ct ra te in h a uc ith m w as children] ssible, including Arabian hospita. d express population as po e finished work, where they coul not be judged for instantly at ease rector’s most th their stories in be a more themselves and drew.” One of the di emiered at ey th es pr as he finds this to ch. ur es ct ur pi the with a recent vent an lm m Fi O l in na io as at w appealing approan campaign for Ahmed ic us m the Dubai Internd of last year ed ish bl ta “My productio d ‘MYLAND’ team of well es s latest project. lle Festival at the en tary, titled Bokra hi r fo s Land Rover is ca and involved producer the ut ho and the documen c) y ug bi or ro ra st A th e n in th to tell (Ardhi “Oman is know re. So we are e Gulf again, the Film, sought gle Tomorrow/ going around th encers or natu e its m r sin fo ity f o ar ul di G ch e au g flu of th around, recordin highlighting the identifying key in done something Bokra, while also ork made possible travellingo that reflects that. From ve ha ho w le op pe and vide their land.” humanitarian w s raised. the wadis and outstanding for strike me as a water flowing in the way through to through the fund11, the song was ’t dn , all Ahmed di aker at all as Released in 20 y Jones, the man rocks fallingunds,” Ahmed explains. mmercial filmm s answer didn’t so nc co et ui re Q st e th ne bi m hi the idea of co so d d to m is d conducte we spoke an The eventual ai different Arab n I asked his who produced an orld single W m e th fro e ds Ar surprise me whe production. “I e un W so al e at th th ng so the origin a es of e ic oduc ured the vo favourite type e more organic,” countries and pr region in the most in 1985, and featb world’s best e th es at like things that ar ra ul A ps e ca th en ith people and of 24 of . a le id ib aj ss M po g ay in says. “Things w And Oman w ud he cl tic in en s th , ar st au an m ng O gi s.” sin t stay in arwan Khoury things with storie ty of those. Despite his shor to visit quite el Roumi and M d Tamer plen s ha y ed nl ag ai rt an ce m an Ahmed from Lebanon pt. The single his filming a few places to doal Qurum, Wadi al Hosny from Egyme one of the got a unique story including Shattie mountains around Have youdo you know someone who has? went on to becoded Arabic songs th or to tell Khoudh and pture the coffee with Deeba fastest-downloa more than 11 “I am here to ca Contact us to have Y Magazine. Email: . ng at tti er ge m y, at A or th st hi in YouTube alone. and be featured in .com journey, so million views on be involved with editor@y-oman to “If I wanted it was for charity, when the this project, sinceething I loved,” m so be to d ha it couldn’t just do says Ahmed. “I e song because I th a ‘making of ’ ere when it was wasn’t actually thtold the team happening. So I this documentary that my take on what the would be to showis song have done proceeds from th ho benefited to the children w from it.” an estimated The song raisedhas since RO384,950, thatseveral charity gone into ing enterprises includ od Fo ld the Wor
W
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APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
correspondence THANK YOU Y
RONNEIL SALES VALIENTE
DEBATE OF THE WEEK
My favourite weather conditions are in spring and autumn. I like spring because it is the time when many plants flower, like cherry blossoms, tulips and roses. I also I like autumn because the temperature becomes cooler and the colour of the trees begins to change. These seasons become even more enjoyable and memorable when you spend them with your family, friends, and relatives.
WE ASKED:
“With sandstorms hitting the region recently, weather has been a big talking point. What are your favourite conditions and why?”
ADEEBA FATIMA
KAMAL GANATRA
Dear Team, I came to Oman three months back to join a private firm as an engineer and was initially worried about leaving my relations, friends and my home behind. I found that most of my colleagues were busy with their jobs and I couldn’t develop any good friendships. Then one weekend I went to a shopping centre in Al Khuwair by chance and my life in Oman hit a turning point. I took a free copy of Y Magazine and had a read through. That week, I attended few events I had seen in the magazine such as World Down Syndrome Day, Yoga in the Park, and Sets on the Beach and soon I found myself developing a good group of friends. Thanks Team Y for helping me set up a home in Oman surrounded by good people. Now we meet at different events mentioned in Y Magazine and we are really happy about that. Thanks again, Rejith, Muscat
WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER
My favourite weather conditions have to be those of Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. Thanks to its location, the city is gifted with 12 hours of sunlight and 12 hours of nighttime every day of the year. Temperatures also rarely vary. The daily high temperatures range from 15 to 24 degrees Celsius and the average nighttime low temperature is 7 degrees Celsius. That makes for comfortable living, and there is no need for either heating or air conditioning for the home, which is a huge cost saving.
JEESMON JOHNSON
I live in a hilly area of Oman and I enjoy the thunderstorms and heavy rains we sometimes experience, all with a bit of fear. Muscat was once a place where rain was unimaginable, but it has become more frequent and unpredictable in recent years. Even though rain gives lots of pleasure and relief in the desert, it has ruined the lives and properties of many people. I love rain, but do fear the negative effects it can have on others.
Dinner for two at Le Jardin restaurant
Sandstorms have been a big talking point recently, especially the sandstorms that occurred in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. I’m very glad that we didn’t suffer that much. My favourite weather condition is winter; I want to chill out all the year.
MONIKA KAUSHIK
I love winter because we don’t feel tired, we don’t sweat, there is less risk of sunstroke, the wind feels awesome and we can do outdoor activities. In short, the weather becomes pleasant and fresh and we can enjoy more things with friends and relatives. In summer many people prefer to sit in front of the TV or their laptop, which is not good for our health, our social life and our family life too.
VIJAYALAKSHMI SHETTY
I prefer the cool weather of the autumn months, as it is neither too hot nor too cold. Just the right temperature to chill out.
SUNIL D’CRUZ
My favourite weather conditions are in winter. The season is great for exploring the outdoors, having
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APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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of sunshine and a cool breeze to make you refreshed, alert and cheerful all through the day. A day like this is perfect to go out for a long drive or just sit on the balcony and have a chat with a friend over tea. It’s like rain on a spring day, so romantic.
RAHMA AL NAMANI Sunny weather is my favourite because I can get a tan. It’s also nicer working on a farm when it’s sunny because my family, the animals and I won’t be cold. I can’t be doing with wind, as it’s either pushing you on too fast or making you work twice as hard. Rain makes your clothes stick to you and you need to dry everything when you get back in.
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Experience the exquisite flavours of Thailand.
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BBQs on the beach and going on long drives with the car windows down so that the cool breeze can caress your face.
HAROON QAZI
In my opinion, spring is the best season. It’s not too cold and not too hot, yet the days are sunny, bright and warm. You can head to the beach and go for long walks or do any outdoor activities without getting cold or sunburnt. You can see greenery and flowers blooming everywhere in spring, which automatically freshens our minds. You can wear whatever you want without getting worried about being too hot or cold, which is perfect for style conscious people like me.
NALIN MISTRY
I don’t hate the bright, sunny days and glowing blue sky, but for me,
rainy and dark weather is marvellous. I love thunderstorms as well. Sometimes the power goes out and that adds spice to the weather. When it’s a dark and rainy evening I find that there’s no better time to read a good book and cuddle up in my favourite chair in front of the window. The worse the weather is outside, the happier I feel, being safe, warm and comfortable.
Trader Vic’s presents oriental cuisine prepared with artistry and subtle balance of flavours. Enjoy fresh ingredients and a series of spectacle only associated with Thai. From 1st to 31st May 2015 Daily from 7:00pm to 11:30pm For more information, please call 2468 0080
KRISHNA SANAL
If there’s anything that unites this country in joy (apart from our love for His Majesty), it’s clouds and a good shower of rain! It spreads a smile on every single face. The chill of rain down your back, the wind in your face and the smell of wet earth; you can’t get better than that.
NANDU SEN
I love slight drizzling with a touch
APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
09
NEWS
A
CHILD LEFT CRITICAL BY BUS
six-year-old student from Indian School Al Maabela is still in critical condition at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital after being hit by her school bus when trying to cross the road. After being dropped off near her home, the girl, who has been named as Jestifer Jeril in local newspapers, attempted to cross in front of the bus, but was knocked down when the driver started the engine and drove away. He didn’t even realise he had hit her until Jestifer’s mother ran over to pick her up. Jestifer has been left with severe injuries to her head and had not yet regained consciousness at the time of going to print. “Not just drivers, but helpers or supervisors on these buses should also be trained,” Jeril Jose, the girl’s father, told a local newspaper. “It is their responsibility to pick young children from the doorsteps or drop them to their homes. How can they be so irresponsible? Our child is in the ICU due to their carelessness.” The most recent incident has raised voices of concern not only from parents of children who use the buses, but also from citizens around the country, with many taking to social media to vent their anger. “Every year we hear of such horrible accidents, but see no strict measures by the authorities. School buses must have requirements like in civilised countries,” said one father of five. Sadly, such bus accidents are nothing new to Oman. In January 2014, a deadly crash occurred when a school bus travelling from Mabela to Pakistan School Muscat ploughed
YEMEN IN CRISIS
A
id agencies are warning of a growing humanitarian crisis in Yemen including food shortages as the Saudi-led bombardment continues for a third week and ground fighting intensifies. Food and water shortages are being reported across the country as supply chains are cut off and charitable groups say they are struggling to get vital aid through.
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into a rubbish truck and overturned in Qurum killing three children. Two weeks later, two people died and 24 were injured after a school bus collided with another car in Sur. In an attempt to reduce the risks associated with school buses, the Ministry of Education issued guidelines on March 5, stating that government school buses should have front and back sensors installed, in addition to cameras, sensors, fire extinguishers, seat belt cutters and first aid boxes. Just last month, Wilson George, the chairman of the Board of Directors for Indian schools in Oman, announced that a pilot project was being launched, intending to create a safer and well monitored transport system for the 30,000 children studying in Indian schools. This would include things like emergency exits, warning devices, hand rails, seat belts as per seating capacity, rear view mirrors, suitable flooring and an assistant or helper on the bus. Yemen’s main southern city of Aden has seen some of the heaviest recent attacks as warplanes blitz the area and at least 30 people – 13 civilians – were killed in clashes between rebels and Hadi supporters. Aid workers said the capital Sana’a is also suffering under a pounding from air strikes. Reports claim basic services have ceased in Aden as schools, universities and all public and private facilities shut down amid a “mass exodus” from the city with people attempting to flee the rapidly deteriorating situation. “Shops are closed. We have a problem of food,” Marie-Elisabeth Ingres, Yemen representative of Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reportedly said. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon warned from Doha on Sunday (12) of a crisis as “civilian casualties are mounting and public infrastructure is being destroyed.” The UN Security Council was this week due to vote on resolution imposing an arms embargo on Yemen’s Houthi rebels and their allies. The International Committee of the Red Cross flew more than 35 tonnes of medical aid and equipment into Sana’a last weekend. More than 16,000 foreigners are estimated to be trapped in Yemen as the situation unfolds. Evacuations are taking place with Russia saying it had managed to remove 650 people by air and sea. Oman is playing its part to help evacuees. An Oman Air flight leaving Muscat gave 110 Malaysians from Yemen safe passage back to their homeland at the weekend, and on Sunday (12), 15 Indian religious students studying in Yemen crossed the border into Salalah with the help of the Oman government and Indian embassy officials.
NEWS
AFFORDABLE MEDICINE
A
ll those residents who have to pay for their own medical treatment will breathe a sigh of relief, as
some medicines and antibiotics are set to become up to 50 per cent cheaper. According to a circular issued by the Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control of the Ministry of Health (MoH) to private pharmacies and drug stores in the Sultanate, prices of around 1,180 medicines from 10 pharmacological groups have been revised and will be available at reduced prices from July 1, 2015. The pricing policy has been decided on by the MoH in line with their goal of a national drug policy that is committed to a reliable supply of safe and cost effective
MANDATORY HEALTH
INSURANCE
E
mployees of private sector companies are set to have their financial loads reduced slightly, as the Ministry of Health has made employee health insurance policies a mandatory requirement for all companies wishing to obtain visa clearance for their workers. The decision followed a meeting of ministers of health from around the GCC and will take effect soon. Increasing medical costs
medicines of acceptable quality, which are rationally used by prescribers, dispensers and consumers in both the government and private sectors. The new prices are applicable on a wide range of products coming from manufacturers in Europe, USA, Canada and Middle Eastern countries. Commenting on the decision in the local media, a doctor said that prices of about 90 per cent of antibiotics are likely to come down by 40 to 50 per cent. “It will not only reduce medical treatment of an individual, it will give the hospitals an opportunity to offer medical care at reduced prices. We are at ease because it gives us freedom to recommend good quality medicines to all segments of patients.” prompted the move, with fears that the country’s lower paid employees may struggle to pay their medical bills. Additionally, the new ruling is expected to cap the amount of unwanted medical tests and scans that hospitals pile on patients, even when dealing with simple ailments. “There have been complaints of staff being exploited by their employers when it comes to major medical expenses and we don’t want this to happen, and all employees should be safeguarded in terms of their health,” Dr Waleed al Zadjali, president of the Oman Medical Specialty Board, told a local newspaper.
APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
011
NEWS
K
WHALES ON TRACK
eeping an eye on Arabian Sea humpback whales, which are capable of travelling hundreds of kilometres a month, is no easy task. But a special project by the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) is managing just that after three of the giant mammals were successfully tagged. The three adult whales – named Holy Fluke, Nusf al Qamar (Half Moon) and Hadi – are now being tracked by satellite along the coast of Dhofar. All three have been transmitting signals for more than 25 days. Arabian Sea humpback whales are the only humpback whales that don’t migrate. Research on their movements will give valuable information on their habits, to help ensure their long-term survival. The two-year ESO project, funded by the Renaissance Group, an Omani multinational oil and gas company, set out to identify feeding and breeding grounds of the whales, which are unique to the Arabian Peninsula. ESO’s field team, a mix of international specialists and local experts including the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs and Muscat-based Five Oceans Environmental Services, weathered long journeys on often rough seas to track the
A WEEK IN PICTURES
notoriously shy mammals. Arabian Sea humpback whales, which can grow to up to 14.6 metres and weigh from 25 to 40 tonnes, are considered one of the most endangered species of whales in the world. “The successful tagging is a positive step towards understanding how to protect such an important part of our ecosystem,” said Suaad al Harthi, ESO programme director. “With fewer than 100 Arabian Sea humpback whales estimated from Oman-based research, it is imperative that we work as fast as we can.” Arabian Sea humpback whales are known to move in waters around Oman, the UAE, Yemen, Pakistan, Iran and Sri Lanka. Holy Fluke, an adult male, was the second whale to be tagged earlier this year close to the research team’s campsite in Hasik, at the eastern end of Dhofar. The research team first encountered Half Moon off Sadh, Dhofar, in February 2001, while Hadi, the first whale to be tagged this year, was found “singing” just offshore from Hasik. * You can follow the progress of the three whales at seaturtle.org/tracking/?project_id=1084
HEADLINING STORIES FROM THE REGION AND BEYOND
An Egyptian court has confirmed the death sentences for Mohammed Badie, leader of the Muslim Brotherhood, and 13 other senior members of the group for inciting chaos and violence
Hillary Clinton announces her bid to become the first female president of the United States as she enters the 2016 race to the White House
At least nine people are killed as armed gunmen from militant group al-Shabab storm Somalia’s Education Ministry building in the capital Mogadishu and reportedly take hostages
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Rookie golfer Jordan Spieth breaks numerous records along the way to becoming Masters champion at Augusta, beating a field that included Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods. Spieth, 21, shot a record-tying 18-under par 270
U N D E R W AT E R T R E A S U R E S
GALLERY
OMAN IN FOCUS 2, AN EXHIBITION DESIGNED TO SHOWCASE THE DIVERSITY OF LIFE BENEATH THE SULTANATE’S SEAS WAS INAUGURATED BY HH SAYYID ASAAD BIN TAREQ AL SAID AT THE WAVE, MUSCAT, THIS WEEK.
Photos: Matthew Herbst
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NEWS
STREET ART – NIZWA STYLE
I
Photos: Oman News Agency
t’s artistry on the streets of a more organised kind than graffiti. As part of the ongoing celebrations to mark Nizwa’s reign as the Capital of Islamic Culture 2015, the city has been letting artists loose on the streets to paint murals on stone “frames” for the public to enjoy. With vivid oranges and blue hues, some of the artworks portray scenes of Nizwa and its street life.
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APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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YOUR
R E TA I L T H E R A P Y
OMAN
THE FAMILY SHOPPING FESTIVAL WAS AT THE OMAN INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE IN SEEB FOR ONE WEEK AND FEATURED MORE THAN 450 ESTABLISHED COMPANIES AND NEW BUSINESSES
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GALLERY
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
Broken Horses This modern day American western sees two brothers, Jakey (Anton Yelchin) and Buddy (Chris Marquette), reunite for the first time in eight years in their dusty Texas hometown. While Jakey moved to New York and found success, Buddy stayed at home, where
The Cobbler Max Simkin (Adam Sandler) owns a small shoe shop in New York that is almost as rundown as he is. When his stitching machine breaks one night, the bashful cobbler is forced into the basement to blow the dust of an old pedal-powered contraption. Max soon realises the vintage machine gives him the ability to transform into the owner of any footwear he works on and after walking a mile in other people’s shoes (quite literally), his stance on life and the community begin to change. Admittedly the premise leads to a number of amusing circumstances,
as Max is given a voyeuristic window into the lives of others, although this insight never goes beyond the surface level, preferring a few cheap laughs over depth and substance. The only real emotion comes from a semioedipal scene in which Max puts on a pair of his father’s shoes to grant his mother her wish of seeing her longvanished husband one more time. This aside, The Cobbler largely neglects to utilise its high concept potential and the result is a 21st century fairytale failure. Review by Matt Blackwell
PREVIEW
THE DUFF After realising she has been consigned to the latest addition to the social pecking order, the Designated Ugly Fat Friend – or DUFF for short – Bianca Piper (Mae Whitman) sets about instigating a revolution against the established order by hanging out with the star of the high school football team, who promises to smooth her rough edges in return for improving his academic grades.
IN W O T E C N A CH R U O Y B A R S G T E K C I T A NEM I C Y T I C O TW
he was manipulated by the local crime kingpin. In fear of losing one of his men to retirement, drug lord Julius Hench (Vincent D’Onofrio) sets about testing the bonds of brotherhood. Bollywood director Vidhu Vinod Chopra makes a rocky crossover with an English language debut that, sadly, misses the mark and fails to convince.
The Longest Ride The 10th adaptation of a Nicholas Sparks novel weaves the story of a modern college girl (Britt Robertson) who falls for the local wannabe champion bull rider (Scott Eastwood) together with that of a World War Two veteran and his wife, played out through flashback. The two strands are wildly incongruous and if you’ve seen previous works like The Notebook and Dear John, then you know exactly what sort of picture-perfect sicklysweet romantic melodrama waits in store. Unfortunately, the 128 minutes of The Longest Ride seem just that: long.
Bollywatch SOLID PATELS
When their get-rich-quick scheme falls flat on its face, Tom and Jerry Patel (Shiv Pandit and Kettan Singh) must come up with another way to keep their girlfriends happy and their investors at bay. Slated for release next month, Solid Patels looks set to be a rollercoaster comedy about two Gujarati boys who want to get ahead in life without working too hard.
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WATER WORLD Cool down with a refreshing sea breeze on an evening dhow cruise. Set off from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha and enjoy food with games, music and dancing. Adults RO10, RO7 for children aged 5-9 and RO5 for children under five years. Snacks, juice, water and cold drinks provided. Departs at 6pm, call or WhatsApp +968 9238 0382 / 9730 2307 to book.
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Apr 24
He’s gorgeous and he’s coming to Oman. Indian heartthrob Farhan Akhtar will perform in Muscat with his band ‘Farhan Live’ for the first time. The talented actor, director, scriptwriter and singer whose last blockbuster was Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, will perform live in concert, singing songs from his hit films and many more classic tunes. Show at Qurum Amphitheatre starts at 8pm. For tickets email tickets@roaroman.com or check out facebook.com/roarentertainment
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WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.
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Apr 16 + 17
Fun with Farhan
THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE
Love Ballet
Korea’s popular story comes to life in a fascinating production by one of Asia’s leading ballet companies, the Universal Ballet of Korea. The Love of Chunhyang is a breathtaking love story about the power of true love between a dancer and an aristocrat’s son, beautifully performed on stage for the first time in Muscat. Curtain up at 7.30pm. Tickets from RO5. Book at rohmuscat.org.om
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Educating High
REVIEW
Are you an Omani or expatriate student looking for some guidance on where you should study after finishing high school? Visit the Global Higher Education Exhibition (GHEDEX) held annually under the auspices of the Ministry of Higher Education for a guide to some bright choices. Local, regional, national and international universities and colleges will promote their programmes to visitors from Oman and the Gulf region. Held over two days at the Oman International Exhibition Centre in Seeb, Muscat. Email bookings@ghedex.com for more info.
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MAGICAL MOMENTS
Merge 104.8’s Chris Fisher reviews Mozart’s The Magic Flute – Interactive Opera for Children at the Royal Opera House Muscat
rom the moment the orchestra walked through the stalls to get to the pit rather than the usual route out of view below stage, it was clear that this production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute was going to be like nothing I had ever seen before. Made especially for Oman, this unique, family-friendly version of the opera classic was just for children, with the aim of educating them as much as entertaining. Music also breaks down language barriers, as evidenced by the mixed nationalities among the audience. The orchestra pit was raised for the first time that I’ve seen at the Royal Opera House Muscat, giving the young audience a view of how the musicians play their instruments. It also created a sense of being part of something exciting. Being a big kid, I really enjoyed the clever way the captivating story was weaved with a magical spell of singing and interactive play. Getting the hundreds of children present to be part of the chorus, admittedly a little off-key one at times, was a great idea to engage their minds and sense of fun. The audience was also asked to hold up props and glowing stars. The Magic Flute premiered in 1791, but this performance was brought up to date with modern touches such as the young hero, Tamino, using a computer game before setting off on a quest to win a captured Princess with the aid of a magic flute. Some scenes were set in the stalls where characters mingled with the crowd during songs. It was all great fun and the audience, which ranged in age from two to 52, loved it. All in all a triumph by the Teatro Sociale di Como, Italy, which had been commissioned for the show. I thought it was particularly brilliant how it allowed the opera house to open its arms to young children and be part of the magic of theatre. For details of forthcoming performances at The Royal Opera House Muscat visit rohmuscat.org.om
Apr 18
CANINE CAPERS
Movies Apr 20 + 22
Gallery
If you’re a dog lover or owner, then you’ll love the Canines for a Cause 2015 Dog Festival at Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel. A unique charity fun day out for you, your family and your dog, there will be fun games and competitions to take part in, kids’ activities, craft stalls and refreshments. Competitions will take place in an air-conditioned tent. Organised by Canadian Jebel K9 Dog Training & Services, the event will benefit the Oman Cancer Association and Oman Diabetes Association. Entry fee is RO5, kids under 12 are free. Find out more at facebook.com/CanadianJebelK9, instagram.com/canadianjebelk9 or email caninesforcause@gmail.com
Cultural Oman
Until April 30 Be part of a trip through Omani history as Nizwa celebrates its title as Capital of Islamic Culture 2015. Get your free Tourism Card distributed at Nizwa Fort, Bahla Fort, Jabrin Castle and Administration of Tourism in the Al Dakhiliya Governorate office. Fort and castle timings 9am-4pm Sun-Thurs and 8am11am on Friday. Working hours for the Administration office are 7.30am-2.30pm. Phone +968 2543 6164/6265/6166 for details or check out omantourism.gov.om
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THE BIG BALANCING ACT 020
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it difficult for many to simply provide food for their families, there are all the makings of a possible financial collapse, should the spiral of debt continue. The warning signs are there. Banking statistics show that more than 9,000 debtors have defaulted about RO520 million worth of loans a year over the past three years. “In my experience, around a third of our clients couldn’t afford to make their repayments,” Ahmed tells Y. “When this happened, I would have to pass their details on to the court who would ring them to reaffirm the terms of repayment and if they still couldn’t pay, it could result in repossession of items or jail, depending on how much they owed. “When I took people’s money, I used to feel their pain, but at the end of the day, I was an employee and had to follow the rules. I was set targets of RO4 million a year to loan and I used to hit these regularly.” Upon leaving the finance industry, Ahmed hen he was 20 years old, Saif* found himself on the other side of the fence. and his friends decided that they With a wife and two young children to support, wanted to visit Salalah for the he had no other choice but to approach a bank first time during the summer. and take out a loan for RO80,000 to cover the However, no one in the group cost of building a house, which he will pay back had access to a car and it was - plus interest - over the next 25 years. proving something of a sticking point. Now debt-free, Saif is approaching his 30th After approaching a local bank, Saif discovered birthday and with a stable job and income, he that despite the fact he had only just left education is looking ahead to the possibility of marrying and was still on his probation period with his first job, and settling down. “It makes me nervous he was eligible for a loan. though,” he says. “I am saving towards my Excited, he eagerly signed up to borrow RO3,000 marriage already, but I still don’t know how and went out to buy a car. The only problem was, much it will cost. I may have to take a small after the purchase had been made and all the loan and then after that there is an expectation associated costs like insurance and registration paid, to either buy or build your own house, which I he couldn’t afford to go to Salalah anymore. will have to take another loan out for.” With the fun on hold indefinitely, Saif was forced However, an increasing number of people to face up to the sobering realisation that he was now in Oman believe they have come up with a committed to paying close to half of his monthly way to fight the rising levels of debt and ease salary towards his outstanding loan balance for the the pressure of their financial situation, ending next four years. their hand-to-mouth existence each month. Yet this is a familiar story for many. Waseem is 31 years old and is married with Working for a foreign commercial bank based in two children. When organising a loan to buy Muscat, Ahmed rose to become the head of credit the land on which he planned to build his and loans and witnessed an increase in the amount family’s home, he opted to borrow slightly more of applications for personal loans, than he needed, using the some of which were intended to excess to construct three flats finance purchases as impulsive as that would back on to his own a holiday. villa and could be put up for “I definitely think that rent. people take out loans without WHEN I TOOK PEOPLE’S “It generates a bit of extra thinking about the long-term MONEY, I USED TO FEEL income for me and with consequences,” he says. “When any luck, I will be able to THEIR PAIN, BUT AT I was advising people who THE END OF THE DAY, complete my repayment wanted to take a loan just to go instalments in 10 years as I WAS AN EMPLOYEE on holiday, I told them that they AND HAD TO FOLLOW opposed to 20,” says Waseem. were going to end up paying While debt is not restricted THE RULES. I WAS significantly more than the initial to a certain age group, young SET TARGETS OF RO4 amount over five years due to people are increasingly MILLION A YEAR TO interest rates, but many just LOAN AND I USED TO finding themselves falling into didn’t care. HIT THESE REGULARLY financial trouble, as they are raised in a society with a “buy “The majority of the loans now, worry later” ethos and do not fear the I issued were for marriages. Then came loans for burden of a loan if it enables them to get what houses and other personal things such as cars and they want in the short-term. holidays.” Hatim was a partner in a company set up by According to statistics, by February this year, a group of local college students a few years housing and personal loans amounted to RO3.2 ago. He already had two loans to his name, but billion, which represents a 6 per cent rise compared the partners decided to take another out to buy to the previous 12 months. a car for the company. All the signs point towards Oman becoming a “Not only did we take loans, but we also took society based heavily on consumerism, where if you on many employees and paid them monthly can’t afford something, you simply take out a loan or salaries as high as RO800, something I knew use a credit card. we wouldn’t be able to afford. Increasing numbers of Omanis are finding “It’s not that our company wasn’t running themselves in debt, often juggling multiple loans and well, we just weren’t able to manage the finanically stretched to make their repayments each finances because we were giving too much month. Coupled with high rates of inflation, a rapid money out for jobs that we could’ve done rise in living costs and fewer wage increases, making
As prices continue to climb and wages don’t keep pace, increasing numbers of Oman’s residents are turning to loans, finding themselves in debt as they struggle to juggle repayments. Matt Blackwell and Deeba Hasan report
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*All names changed to protect identity
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THE FIVE STEPS OF DEBT COLLECTION
ourselves,” he tells Y. Soon after, the car was reclaimed, but thanks to the accessibility of credit in Oman, the company was able to take another car on instalments, which was subsequently also reclaimed. Soon, the employees started to sue for lack of payment and everything became a chaotic blur for Hatim. “Now our bank cards have been cancelled and we have been blocked from leaving the country by the police. It all turned into a nightmare because of taking too many loans and not thinking about the future of the company,” he says. It’s not only Omanis who are affected by huge levels of debt either, thousands of expatriates also find themselves in worsening financial situations, which can have a negative effect on the overall psychological condition of the Sultanate’s workforce. Many expatriates are in debt to recruitment agencies from the moment they touch down on Omani soil and given that a large percentage of their wage will be sent to their respective countries to support their families back home, problems can arise when it comes to making ends meet. Psychiatrists in Oman have noted an increasing rate of workers suffering from depression, including those who find themselves rooted in debt. Roma Fernandes is a clinical psychologist at the
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Y spoke to the Recovery and Collection department at a local bank to discover what happens when people miss their loan repayments
1 2 3
The debtor is called to inform them that they have missed payments and owe money If no response is received within the next few days an official notice is issued
The debtor then has 10 days to acknowledge, after which a third and final reminder will be given, along with a second official letter
4 5
If the money is still not paid, lawyers will be consulted and legal proceedings will begin
If three court hearings are missed, the police will become involved, which can lead to repossessions and in some cases, a prison sentence
DEBT IN NUMBERS OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS:
12,000 cars dispossessed 4,600 students forced to
drop out of higher education
900 residences had water and electricity disconnected
600 homes taken away Whispers of Serenity Clinic in Muscat and has seen the psychological toll debt can take on people. “When people take too many loans and are not able to pay them back, it definitely creates a lot of stress on them,” she says. “We’ve had a few clients who took loans for marriages and other family affairs and were eventually not able to pay. “When such clients come to us, we offer to help plan their finances and try to release their stress by talking the scenario through with them. Of course we can’t help financially, but we certainly help them to calm down.” Additionally, experts have said that those who don’t have their debts under control are more likely to go through divorce, backing up Saif ’s belief that “When the load of the loan hits you, it can provide a reality kick and sometimes love flies out the window.” With the rise in debt showing no signs of abating, many believe that action needs to be taken by the Government to avert a potential disaster. In acknowledgement of the degeneration into debt the country was facing, the Central Bank of Oman stepped in to safeguard personal debt levels in 2012. A regulatory change stipulated that commercial banks could not deduct more than 50 per cent of a borrower’s salary in monthly instalments for personal loans, while the figure for housing loans was 60 per cent. However, for those like Ahmed, this measure alone isn’t enough. He advocates the introduction of reducing balance on loans, which is popular in Europe and many other parts of the world. A reducing balance means that customers only have to pay interest on the amount of loan that is left, which obviously reduces over time, whereas Oman currently favours fixed interest according to Ahmed. Meanwhile, others look across the border to the UAE and see an example to follow. There, special hotlines have been set up to offer free advice to those struggling with debt, while several banks have also set up debt counselling services for people who find it difficult to make their repayments. What – if anything – will be done to alleviate the situation and set Oman on a new path remains unclear. In the meantime though, we will continue our slow conversion to a nation of debtors with an aptitude for balancing.
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BACK IN
Time
IN AN EXCLUSIVE PHOTO FEATURE, WE RETURN TO THE 1970S WHEN OMAN WAS ON THE VERGE OF MONUMENTAL CHANGES, WHICH WOULD ALTER THE LANDSCAPE FOREVER
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he elderly gentleman in traditional dress takes a slow stroll down the arched hallway, taking in the various wares on offer. As you can see, Nizwa souq looked quite different back in 1970. This never before published in Oman photograph is just one of thousands that were taken by a French husband and wife journalist team. Chris Kutschera and his wife made several visits to the Sultanate, starting in 1970 when Sultan Qaboos had just come to power. In the final part of our series looking back at Oman to celebrate the return of The Sultan, these black and white images provide a fascinating insight into the Sultanate’s past, capturing everyday life and chronicling the changes the country began to undergo as part of the renaissance. The couple met His Majesty in Muscat in 1970 and took the extraordinary image on our front page. They also interviewed him at length as his home stood on the verge of historical transformation. With their exclusive photographs, along with those taken by an expat working in the country at the time, we see historical Oman through the eyes of visitors, via a lens. In the following, Chris Kutchera’s own words, we hear about his meeting with His Majesty and Oman in the 1970s. “Our first steps in Oman were in 1970. We came from Abu Dhabi by plane. It was a propeller aircraft with about 15 seats. The plane flew over Muscat’s bay and suddenly dived towards the track between two mountains. There was no airport, only a track. As there were no hotels either, we spent some days in the guesthouse of a foreign company. There were very few cars, but many pedestrians, donkeys and camels carrying goods. We started to move around by foot like everybody else in the old city of Muscat. People were very friendly and had no problem with the camera. Muscat was surrounded by walls with big gates, which closed at night. Young, happy boys asked me to take their pictures smoking in the street and somebody told us that under Sultan Said, cigarettes were forbidden. We saw very few women in the streets, it was mainly men coming from all parts of Oman to see the new Sultan. During this first visit, we met Sultan Qaboos in a private house, after The Sultan had been invited by a rich merchant family for a tea party. We knew about it and our guide told us it was a good opportunity to see the Sultan. Lots of Omanis were waiting for the Sultan outside, with flags, drums and songs, people were
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Nizwa Souq 1970
Photo: Chris Kutschera ©
Muttrah seafront 1970 Photo: Chris Kutschera ©
Quranic school, Wadi Sumail 1970
Photo: Chris Kutschera ©
dancing in the street. When Sultan Qaboos arrived, a member of the merchant family invited us to join the party. In a garden with lot of flowers, we were introduced to His Majesty. We participated in the tea party in beautiful surroundings, seated at a long table with around 20 guests with the Sultan and his Dhofari guards. It was on this occasion that I took the photo of Sultan Qaboos with the rose. A few days after, we had an exceptional interview, two and a half hours, with Sultan Qaboos who told us: ‘I am a man with one foot in my country… and the other in the 20th century. I must be careful to keep my balance.’ We also met [Sayyid] Tariq Bin Taimur, then Oman’s Prime Minister, and his brother Fahar Bin Taimur, who helped us to discover all Oman. We saw Omanis coming back from abroad. A lot of them studied in the Soviet Union, the most generous country for scholarships at that time. They were in the new [Omani] Government and when they used to meet after work, they liked to speak Russian to each other. In 1970, Oman had only three schools and three kilometres of paved road. After seeing the development in Abu Dhabi, we were surprised to discover Oman, a world remaining frozen in time. When we came back in 1972, we saw the foundations of the new Oman beginning.”
MICHAEL HAMILTON-CLARK, IS A CIVIL ENGINEER, WHO WORKED IN OMAN IN THE EARLY 1970S AND RETURNED FOR VISITS IN 1982 AND 1984
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nitially I was on a bachelor posting to Salalah in 1972, working on Port Risut, being built for use by SOAF [The Sultan of Oman’s Air Force]. After a leave, I was transferred to roadworks in Muttrah and Muscat. My wife and two boys, then aged six and three years, were able to join me and we lived in a bungalow near the original Bustan Hotel in Ruwi Valley. On completion of these works, I joined the team working on the Seeb-Nizwa road and we lived on the contractor’s compound near Seeb. It was an interesting time to be in the country. There was considerable development underway, yet the traditional way of life was still in evidence. When I was transferred to Muttrah in January 1973, the Corniche was being completed and I was engaged on the Muttrah Bypass. This enabled access directly to the western end of the Corniche rather than having to wind through Muttrah town, which though picturesque, was subject to frequent traffic jams. At that time, the only access to Muscat town was via a narrow two-lane road that snaked its way round the edge of the bay and then went off up Riyam Hill and down into Muscat via a series of hairpin bends. I was involved with a re-route to create a single slope and final bend down into Muscat town. Our elder son was one of the initial students at The Muscat English Speaking School, which had been set up in Ruwi and I was asked to sit on the Board of Governors. My wife set up the Ruwi Playgroup for children aged three to five years, which was initially in a friend’s villa, but moved to an old library when numbers increased. There were no fees, but each mother – of whom the British Ambassador’s wife was one – was asked to come for one day each week. In early 1974, I was transferred to work on the Seeb-Nizwa road that was just getting underway. We went to live in a bungalow on the contractor’s compound down on the coast at Seeb. My wife handed over the leadership of the playgroup and took on the home schooling of our two boys. It was quite enjoyable living near the beach with APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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ready access along the coast and inland. Once we spent the weekend as guests of the Colonel at the SOAF detachment near Fanja. We asked if we could visit the village and were provided with a soldier as an escort and guide. We were able to see reed mats being woven and we visited the falaj system. Another time we went to Misfah [Al Hamra], which was then along a quite rough track that led to a collection of dwellings, some of which were perched on rocky outcrops, with others using walled-in natural caves. There was an interesting falaj system for watering the terraces of lime trees. Today there is a surfaced road and it is a tour bus destination. In August 1974 we were able to see Concorde at Seeb Airport, where it was engaged in hot weather trials. We left Oman in October 1974. I went back on business visits in the 1980s when the development progress was clear to see. It’s nice to think that I was able to be part of the overall development that was getting underway in the early 1970s and that the various road schemes with which I was involved formed the basis for those in use today. My family and I are glad that we were able to be in the country in those early days. We treasure our memories of the friendly folk we met and once in a while our photographs enable us to take a trip back in time. 026
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THE ANNUAL HOSPI-EXPO BROUGHT LIVE COOKING AND EXCITING COMPETITIONS TO MUSCAT OVER THREE DAYS. MATT BLACKWELL WAS IN THE THICK OF THE ACTION COMPETING IN THE WAITER RACE
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ourism figures are rocketing in the Sultanate. International website Skift, the largest global provider of information and data relating to the travel and tourism sector, named Oman as the best tourist destination for 2015 and to add further emphasis, the amount of international tourists arriving in the country rose by 18 per cent in January this year, compared to the month before. Needless to say, these visitors require a place to lay their heads at night and food to eat during their stay and so at the heart of Oman’s tourism drive is hospitality and catering. There were more than 100 registered hotels in Muscat Governorate as of last year and several more luxury offerings are due to open in the near future. And the cream of the country’s current catering crop was at the National Hospitality Institute’s (NHI) annual Hospi-Expo, which took place over three days at Muscat Grand Mall last week. Representatives from hotels including the Radisson Blu, Al Bustan Palace and the Shangri-La among others, as well as the NHI themselves, took part in cooking demonstrations, races and competitions to promote the opportunities available within an industry that is experiencing exponential growth. “The reason we do it now is the same as when we started, nearly 20 years ago,” says Rob MacLean, principal of the NHI. “The whole idea was to raise awareness about the hospitality business, particularly as a place of employment for young people. We want to show people the positive side, prove that it’s not all about long hours and difficult work and that there are elements of teamwork, competitiveness and fun to it all.” But it was the final day of the exhibition that was of interest to me, as this was the day I had been invited to take part in the renowned waiter race. I arrived at Muscat Grand Mall in time to catch the barista competition and soon realised that this would be no walk in the park. Four hotels along with the NHI battled it out to produce the best espresso and cappuccino, while two smartly dressed judges carefully assessed the smallest details including aroma, presentation and time taken to serve. If the contestant used too much water, the coffee would be diluted and lose its taste, if they added too little, the coffee would
not filter through quick enough. It turns out that the art of coffee is an exact science and the attention to detail was immense. However, this is all standard nowadays. As Rob reminds me, no one merely asks for a coffee anymore, they want a skinny late, mocha or frappuccino. The times have changed and the hospitality industry has moved along with it. With the Al Bustan Palace being crowned the eventual champions in the barista competition, the stage was set for the pièce de résistance, as four pairs of waiters representing the Radisson Blu, Shangri-La, Al Bustan Palace and the NHI assembled for their briefing before the race. This event wasn’t about ticking boxes as such; it was about speed, precision and control. A course had been laid out in the middle of the mall around which the waiters had to race, negotiating obstacles such as limbos as they went, all while ensuring they didn’t drop the bottle of water balancing on the tray they held in one hand. After the pairing of Manoj and Ahmed from Shangri-La took home the professional title, it was time for the showpiece event in which I would be taking on Chris Fisher from our sister radio station, Merge 104.8. With a fair few years of waiting experience under my belt I was confident of a win and when the whistle went, I was out of the blocks in a flash. Making my first left turn after 10 metres I was already streaks ahead and took the opportunity for a bit of showboating, walking backwards and encouraging Chris to keep up. As the assembled crowds cheered, a touch of complacency crept in and upon rounding the elevator I realised my competitor had sneakily cut a corner, leaving me with some catching up to do. And this was where it all went wrong. As I lengthened my strides to cover the lost ground, the steadiness of my hand was compromised and the bottle went tumbling as I approached the home straight. Stepping over the first obstacle – a limbo stick set around 50cm off the floor – was relatively simple. The second and slightly higher limbo was more of a challenge in that we had to go under it, eating the small bunch of grapes that were dangling from a string before crossing the final five metres to the finish line. In a desperate bid for glory I took the limbo too fast and once again my bottle went tumbling. Sadly, I had to concede defeat. Friendly rivalries aside, it was all in good spirit and a fantastic way to generate excitement and interest in catering, if the cheering crowds were anything to go by. Looking ahead to the future, Rob remains optimistic about the HospiExpo. “There are thousands of people working in the industry now and you need to have these events,” he says. “This is primarily driven by the NHI, but I hope that one day it may pass on to someone like the Ministry of Tourism who could perhaps sponsor it.” After coming face-to-face with the talent that is on the frontline of the Sultanate’s tourism industry, greeting guests as they enter hotels, serving their food and making their drinks, it certainly seems that things are in safe hands. APR 16 – 22 / ISSUE 366
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FOOD HEALTH AND BEAUTY DRINK
&
DRINK TO YOUR HEALTH
Milk is packed full of vital nutrients, so make it a regular part of your diet - it tastes great too and even better, is made in Oman.
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FIVE REASONS TO LOVE
MILK
Add regular servings of milk to your daily routine and you’ll soon reap the physical benefits
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id you know milk is one of the most nutrient-rich beverages you can find? And that there are thousands of studies that have documented the benefits of drinking milk? That’s why nutrition experts recommend adults drink three servings of milk and milk products a day. Yet, many of us fall short of these daily doses. So, before you think about skipping your milk, here are five reasons to grab a glass.
1 2 3 4 5
It’s a Nutrient Powerhouse. No matter your age, it’s hard to get the nutrients you need without milk in your diet. Milk is the top food source for three out of four nutrients we most commonly lack, including calcium, vitamin D and potassium. All milk – fat free, low-fat or organic – has nine essential nutrients, including B vitamins for energy, vitamin A for a healthy immune system plus several bone-building nutrients. It Ups the Protein Ante in the Morning. While many experts now recommend 25-30 grams of protein at each meal, the average breakfast plate only contains 13 grams. One way to help close the gap is to add a 200ml glass of milk to your eggs or Greek yoghurt.
Protein Power for Your Rial. Milk offers one of the best protein bargains for your money, with a huge eight grams of protein in every 200ml glass. That’s a big protein bang for your buck.
It is Not Easily Replaced. It’s hard to get the nutrients you need without real dairy milk in your diet. The truth is, not all non-dairy milks have the same nutrients as real milk so it’s important to know what you are getting in each glass. For instance, dairy milk has eight times the protein of almond milk and rice milks, which can contain a long list of ingredients, including added sugar, salt and thickeners. It’s Wholesome, Real and Local. Milk is one of the original farm-to-table foods. Little handling is done from farm to fridge and that’s why you can trust the milk you buy at the store is safe and wholesome. Oman has its own milk dairies.
The quinoa oatmeal recipe opposite serves up 13 grams of protein. Pair with a 200ml glass of milk to get 21 grams of protein power to start your day. Visit milklife.com for more recipes.
Nutty Blueberry Quinoa Oatmeal Servings: 1 Ingredients: § 2/3 cup low-fat milk § 1/3 cup oats § 1/4 cup cooked quinoa § 1/4 cup blueberries § 1 teaspoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice § 2 tbsp pecan pieces § 2-3 dashes cinnamon Method: § Combine milk and oats and cook according to package instructions to desired creaminess. Stir in quinoa, blueberries, maple syrup, pecans and cinnamon and serve hot. Nutrition: 376 calories; 17g fat; 3g saturated fat; 13mg cholesterol; 13g protein; 46g carbohydrates; 6g fibre; 255mg sodium; 23 per cent calcium. (Nutrition figures based on using lowfat milk).
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FOOD AND DRINK
Tr e n d
New Restaurant
REVIEWS
Midket r Ma
Info Box
CHEZ SUSHI
The Walk, The Wave, Muscat Opening times: Sun-Sat 12pm-12am Tel: +968 800 78744 Dinner and drinks for two: RO41.6
ROLL WITH IT CHEZ SUSHI IS A FUNKY AND FUN NEW ADDITION TO THE WAVE, MUSCAT, OFFERING BITE-SIZED ROLLS OF PURE JAPANESE CULTURE, SAYS MATT BLACKWELL
L
ooking at any sushi menu for the first time can be a daunting task. With dishes under headings like sushi, sashimi, maki and temaki, the whole experience can seem incredibly foreign to the uninitiated, but then that is a large part of the appeal to me. It’s the lure of the exotic. And so it was that I found myself at Chez Sushi at around 9pm on a Friday evening with The Wave, Muscat teeming with life around me. The restaurant has a show kitchen inside where you can watch the chefs skillfully roll the little culinary pieces of art, but wishing to make the most of the opportunity to sit outside before the mercury rises too high over the coming weeks, we opted for one of their pavement tables. As I’ve mentioned, deciphering the menu can present a challenge initially, but this being my third visit in three weeks (it’s fair to say that I’m a recent but passionate convert), I was starting to get to grips with the concept. Admittedly raw fish is not to everyone’s taste and for those who aren’t too keen on the idea there is a decent selection of meaty mains, including chicken and beef, as well as salads. Chez Sushi even offers expert diners the chance to create their own custom-built rolls, although I felt this was still slightly too advanced for me and decided to leave that for my next visit. During my first visit to the Emirati food chain, I found the lingering presence of the waiter after handing us the menu unsettling. I was more accustomed to it this time around however, and took advantage of his omnipresence by quizzing him about certain items and asking for recommendations. Being hungry, my dining companion
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and I settled on prawn spring rolls with wasabi mayonnaise and white fish served with nori chips for an appetiser, followed by eight pieces of sushi (four yellowtail, two salmon and two rewd snapper), six pieces of their spicy tuna signature rolls and a salmon teriyaki bento set. Given that there is little to no cooking required, the procession of dishes began shortly after ordering and soon we had a table crammed full of plates as I found myself in a sort of sushi-based heaven. Despite ordering two dishes from the “appetisers” section, everything arrived pretty much at the same time, presented at our table in waves, with short intervals in between. The only slight negative of this was that some of the more delicate flavours, such as the small cubes of white fish that I had chosen as a starter,
Verdict : 8/ 10 Service 9 / 10 Food 7 / 10 Ambience Good setting, great service, gorgeous sushi Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals
were lost among the strong and meatier flavoured tuna and salmon. Apart from that, the food was faultless. Each piece of sushi and sashimi was delightful when combined with a dash of soy sauce and a hint of wasabi, but in my opinion, the standout choice was the salmon teriyaki bento. Bento boxes are a good option for those relatively new to the concept and who would like to taste a bit of everything. Compartmentalised into its own little section were two pieces of salmon teriyaki, two pieces of sushi (tuna and salmon), a tempura combo (including tempura covered vegetables and white fish), three of Chez Sushi’s signature “California” rolls and mixed greens, along with an accompanying bowl of rice. A fantastic introduction to Japanese cuisine with a portion size that offers great value for money. Desserts are decidedly limited, with the grand total of one option and despite the fact I was fit to burst after trying a little bit of everything we had ordered, the inquisitive side of me found the offer of wasabi flavoured moshi ice cream too hard to resist. In honesty and with hindsight, it was probably not the best decision I’ve made in life. However, the small balls of mango and green tea ice cream I’d chosen to accompany more than made up for it. With three courses and drinks coming to just over RO41, it’s certainly not the cheapest option in town, but at the end of the day, creating good sushi is akin to an art form and it’s an art that I’m willing to pay for. Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com
HEALTH& BEAUTY
DID YOU KNOW?
A recent survey revealed that nearly half of families with children say that their brood are more serious about their school kit than their casual wardrobe. Thank goodness for retailers like M&S who are catching on to the importance of both convenience and style with non-iron shirts and stain resistant materials.
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Health
Beauty
FASHION
Mini satchels are big catwalk news with everyone from Victoria Beckham to Alexander Wang embracing the classic school bag. Designed in a fresh coral palette, Accessorize’s version is perfect for bijou fashion fiends. From RO12
COOL FOR
SCHOOL Spring break is almost over and it’s time for the kids to go back to school. Penny Fray picks the most hip pieces to pull a uniform together
K
itting the kids out for school can cost a small fortune. There seems to be a list as long as your arm of essential stuff to buy. But do your little darlings really need that swanky satchel or trendy trainer? Probably not. Still, they’ll use pester power until you give in. If you don’t want your bank account to be sucked dry though, stick to a sensible list, hunt down bargains and be creative. Buy basics and jazz them up. Plain supplies are often much cheaper and you can add your own personal touch with stickers, badges and delicious doodles. It’s very Anya Hindmarch – plus, it’ll keep them occupied when boredom strikes. Talking of which, may I introduce you to the magic of loom bands? They cost less than a rial, provide hours of entertainment and make great playground gifts. No, I don’t understand it either but these colourful rubber pieces are still trending among tweens. Finally, if you need to replace their uniform don’t discount high street stores over specialist suppliers. There’s always a great debate among parents about quality versus price. But bear in mind that the average uniform could be worn and washed more than 50 times, surviving everything from ink to sweat stains, so it’s worth investing a little extra in hard wearing materials. M&S do well on this score, thanks to their technologically advanced ranges. If you’re on a budget though, watch out for buy one, get one free offers in your local supermarket. And when it comes to accessories, go bright. Colours are always cool and I’m particularly excited about Zara’s new neon clogs – they’re adorable and I wish I could get a pair in my size.
TOP OF THE CLASS
Computer geeks have never been so trendy (or rich). Start them early with Coding For Kids. From RO7 on Amazon
Slogan tops are all the rage this season – especially if they improve your language skills like this one from Next. From RO3
These Geek Kitty erasers from Paperchase get an A+ for stationary cool. From RO1.5
Loom bands offer hours of fun and are fabulous accessories. Check out stores like Daiso, and Toys “R” Us for sets that cost less than RO1 Zara’s neon clogs are perfect for those not restricted by a strict dress code. They’re furry, sturdy and super stylish. Which young hipster could resist? From RO29
Tips on getting your kids on trend:
1. Forget about unsightly name tags. The hip new way to make your mark is embroidered initials and quotes on clothes. Visit your local seamstress or tailor for details. 2. Keep their schoolwear looking as good as new with the latest colour shield technology. Uniforms have never been so advanced. 3. Stickers, studs and slogans were seen on runway bags this season. Encourage your kid to up-cycle their old satchels with fabric pens and other craft materials.
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
BEAUTY
Health Fashion
Done the right way, they can transform your face and add instant glamour, so take time out to care for your eyelashes
L
ong eyelashes can make eyes look bigger, fuller and more inviting. Not all of us are blessed with sweeping lashes, but with the help of a few simple tricks, you can give the illusion that you are. During this sticky, humid time of year, the last thing we want are globs of make-up, but lustrous eyelashes are a year-round necessity. Follow these five rules from dailymakeover.com to get perfect lashes without having to resort to time-consuming treatments or expensive extensions: 1. EYELASH CURLERS Sonia Kashuk, make-up artist and founder of Sonia Kashuk Beauty, swears by curlers as key to giving lashes that “wow” factor. Be sure to choose ones that create a beautiful upward curl. Always curl before applying mascara. Kashuk’s Dramatcially Defining Eyelash Curler will do the trick, available from soniakashuk.com 2. LET LASHES SETTLE BETWEEN MASCARA LAYERS Practice a little patience between each coat. This allows the mascara to set and build up each layer instead of glooping up as one big clump. Try brands such as L’Oreal and Lancôme, or Maybelline’s Rocket Volum' Express Mascara and Rimmel’s new Wonder’Lash with Argan Oil for the budget conscious. 3. PREVENT SPIDER LASHES Avoid spidery clumps by combing lashes after applying mascara. A metal-toothed lash comb is best. Apply a coat, wait a few seconds, brush through eyelashes and then apply the next coat. 4. DON’T LAYER DIFFERENT MASCARAS Some formulas do not mix well and end up clumping, says Kashuk. You can swap wands though. If there’s one you prefer, clean it off and use with a different mascara. 5. CONDITION AND TREAT YOUR LASHES DAILY Just like your hair, your lashes need a little TLC. Lash conditioners such as Dior’s Diorshow Maximiser Lash Plumping Serum work as a primer, creating a smooth surface for mascara. Latisse, a treatment that causes eyelashes to grow longer, thicker and darker, is available in the UAE.
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
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
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Muscat -3 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 Sifa • Sifawy Boutique Hotel SQU • Diplomatic Club •
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
Beauty
HEALTH
Fashion
BRIDGING
THE GAP Y gives you the lowdown on how to ensure your diet isn’t lacking in critical nutrients
T
oday, our busy lifestyles make it challenging to ensure we’re getting all of the nutrients our body needs. We split time between 40+ hour working weeks, family activities, meeting friends, time at the gym and errands – all leaving precious little time to ensure we eat a balanced diet. It’s easy to understand why many of us have a nutrient gap. According to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, 90 per cent of Americans fall short in getting key nutrients from food alone. And believe it or not in sunny Oman many people are not getting enough vitamin D, which we absorb from the sunlight. This is because we tend to stay indoors during the day, particularly over the summer months of May, June and July as temperatures soar. Vitamin D is important for healthy bones and deficiencies can lead to conditions such as rickets. To make up for this shortfall, supplementing with essential nutrients like omega-3s, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins D and E can help ensure your body is getting the vital nutrition it needs for optimal health. Don’t know how best to fill your shortfalls? Consider sitting down with a registered dietitian to discuss your unique needs, especially if you’re taking medication or have a health condition. Beforehand, take stock of your diet and arm yourself with information about how you can improve your overall nutrition to fight heart disease, and support eye health, brain health and prenatal health. Check your diet The Ministry of Health in Oman recommends: ● 3-5 servings of colourful, vitamin E and luteinrich foods daily ● 2-4 servings of fruit daily ● Consumer fish, poultry, eggs or lean meat ● Limit your fat intake and choose snacks wisely
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● 1 serving of protein/iron/zinc-rich foods, such as legumes each day ● At least twice a week, a serving of fatty fish with omega-3s, such as salmon Fill nutrient gaps If you aren’t eating enough nutrient-rich food, supplementing with the right nutrients can help fill the gap. Shortfalls should be addressed, as deficiencies may lead to health issues. Eye health: Proper eye care is often neglected until it’s too late to make a difference. According to the American Optometric Association, lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, including cataracts. Heart health: Heart disease and stroke are top killers, according to the American Heart Association. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial to your heart, whether healthy or at high risk for cardiovascular disease. However, people closely monitoring fat intake, such as those with coronary artery disease, may not get enough omega-3s by diet alone. Brain health: Brain volume and general cognitive function decline with age. Focusing on nutrition, physical health, mental health and social well-being can help support brain health. In addition, studies from the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging show that vitamin E helps slow the progression of Alzheimer’s because of its antioxidant properties. Prenatal health: A mother’s nutrition at conception, during pregnancy and through lactation plays a key role in determining both her and her child’s health. Numerous studies have found a range of benefits associated with DHA omega-3 supplementation, including support of infant brain, eye and nervous system development. To learn more about the essential nutrients your body needs, visit vitaminsinmotion.com
Postcards from
Outdoors
Y- F i
Cars
CARS AND ADVENTURES
MISSION IMPOSSIBLE
Hunting for the famous roses at the top of the Jebel Akhdar, can lead to some very interesting detours.
APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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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 CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES
Y- F i
Outdoors
Destination
THE ROSES OF AKHDAR WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SPRING, THE GREEN MOUNTAIN GETS READY FOR ROSE SEASON WHEN THE PINK BLOOMS BURST INTO LIFE. SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI GOES ON A MISSION TO FIND THEM
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Cars
P
erched at the top of a vertical drop on a narrow dirt track, there was a brief moment when we wondered whether all this effort would be worth it. We were hunting for flowers, “Rosa Damascena”, the distinctive pink blossom, which turn the manmade terraces of Jebel Akhdar into a riot of colour. The roses are handpicked and used to make Oman’s famous rose water, renowned for its smoky aroma. Our quest to find the roses had brought us to this steep incline in front of us, which led down to the villages near Saiq, where the flowers are grown before being taken to the local distilleries. The rose harvesting season begins during March and continues until the middle of May. In a SUV borrowed for the day, a friend and I headed off from Muscat early to make the most of the early morning temperatures and quieter roads. Safely through the police checkpoint – a 4x4 is compulsory for this journey – at the bottom of the mountain, we wound our way up the twisting road, watching the temperature gauge dropping as we climbed. It’s around 10 degrees cooler up Jebel Akhdar and I enjoyed gulping in the refreshing air. As it’s name suggests, the “Green Mountain” is blessed with an abundance of greenery, with trees and shrubs against the harsh brown rocks making for a spectacular landscape. I was looking for something else however. Veering off from the main blacktop road after passing through Birkat Al Mawz near the top, we followed the road to Saiq. This tiny village is the hub for rose water production, producing some of the best in the region to be exported around the world with the amber-tinged liquid fetching between RO6 and RO7 for 375ml. We made our way to the rose terraces via the steep path that I mentioned at the beginning, inching our way down slowly, towards the row upon row of bushes planted on the side of the mountain. At peak time, these bushes are groaning under the weight of flowers in full bloom and the sweet scent of roses wafts in the air, as a river of pink cascades down the terraces. The day we were there, a few flowers were out and the remaining buds were closed waiting for their moment. I walked around clicking away to capture the precious petals, with the sound
of the falaj, which provides irrigation for the rose bushes, gently carrying on the breeze. As dawn breaks, the rose pickers of Saiq will leave their homes armed with whicker baskets to make the two-kilometre trek to the terraces built on these precipitous slopes. Before the morning sun begins to heat up, they will head back with hundreds of flowers for the distillation process. Happy with my shots, we went back the way we had come. It’s a narrow, single track and meeting another car would have necessitated some tricky manoeuvres, which thankfully we didn’t have to try out. Wandering around, I found some old ruined houses, abandoned long ago and crumbling away, which made a nice contrast to the pretty flowers I had just taken. Jebel Akhdar is not just a one-trick pony; there are lots of places to explore and sights to see. But I will save those for another time and another article.
TRAVEL GUIDE
HOW TO GET THERE From Muscat, take the road to Nizwa. Just before the town, turn right when you see the road signs for Jebel Akhdar. There is a police checkpoint before the mountain where you must show your driving licence. A 4×4 is
compulsory. Towards the top of the mountain, you will pass through Birkat Al Mawz. Follow the signposts to Saiq.
GPS Location of Saiq: N23˚ 04’ 40” E57˚ 40’ 14”
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CARS AND ADVENTURES Dressed in walking attire and sturdy shoes, Deeba Hasan joins the all-female group of adrenaline junkies who are conquering the wilderness of Oman one trek at a time
A
t 6am on Saturday morning, most people in the city were still fast asleep. The sun was barely up, but already a group of girls were assembling just outside Riyam Park in Muttrah, ready to embark on a hike through the high hills above. These are the GALS (Gathering Adventure Ladies) of Oman, a female-only group dedicated to exploring the Sultanate’s great outdoors. Zinnia Bookwala founded the social group almost two years ago and regular treks are held around the capital region and beyond, meaning that members could be crossing a stream in Wadi Shab one weekend and hiking up the mountains near Qantab the next. The only qualification for membership is that you’re a girl with an adventurous spirit. “I was always a sports and adventure enthusiast. I just never got the opportunity to go out and actually do what I loved because I didn’t have like-minded people around me at the time,’ says Zinnia. “I was wary of joining other established groups because they didn’t have many women and after giving it some thought, I decided to start a female-only outdoor sports group on Facebook, which got a great response.” With the full group gathered by 6.15am, we sat through a briefing on the route, which was slightly more challenging than had been attempted in the past, and ensured everyone was carrying enough water. With mercury levels rising by the day, we didn’t want to be caught without the most precious of
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commodities on a long trek like this. We were on our way by 6.30am, hiking up a steep set of stairs carved into the mountain. The steps were there to make life easier for those wishing to explore the area, but with a relentless incline, many of us already felt a sense of tiredness creeping in. Although I was excited, I couldn’t get the thought of the wild cats that were spotted in the hills around a month ago out of my head. I ensured I was observant of my surroundings and remained on high alert for any unusual sounds or sudden movements throughout. Thankfully, our paths didn’t cross on this occasion and once we reached a decent height, I was able to look back over the Muttrah Corniche and take in the beautiful views over Riyam Park and out to sea. After a quick photo break we continued; after all, this was just the beginning of a lengthy journey. We were following a designated trail and there were flags set out to guide us, nevertheless you still had to keep your wits about you at all times. The surface of the mountain was rocky and we had to be cautious. At one point my foot slipped on a pile of loose stones and I nearly lost my balance. There were also places where, if we slipped, we would’ve fallen down into the valley below. Despite a sense of potential danger never being far away, the chat between us girls was amiable and friendly throughout. “I joined GALS because the people in it are always hungry
for adventure and fun. It gives me a feeling of empowerment to think that we don’t need men around us to do sports or outdoor activities; we can do this on our own,” says Shaina Malik, one of the group’s members. After some time, we arrived at a plateau and found ourselves struggling to locate the next flag. Luckily, one of the ladies spied it hiding behind a gnarled old tree and we were soon able to get back on track. We stumbled upon a stunning valley shaded by the mountains with little pools of water collected here and there. We stopped at different spots along the way, waiting for others to catch up or to drink water and rest our tiring legs and it was at this point that I reflected on the beauty of area. When someone says “Muttrah”, thoughts often turn to the souq or the Corniche, but in reality there is so much more on offer, including the dramatic landscapes we encountered on our trek. Leaving the valley we emerged back into the sunshine and rugged mountainous terrain, with the trek coming to an end at an old graveyard. We made our way back on to the normal road and had breakfast at one of the coffee shops in the souq area. Glancing at my watch, which read 8.20am, ● GALS (Gatherings Adventure I realised that normally, I’d probably still be in Ladies) is a group of girls, who bed at this time on a weekend, but here I was, organise regular treks and BBQ nights at the weekend with lungs full of fresh air and an impressive ● There is no age restriction or trek behind me. The endorphins were flowing any other membership criteria and the sense of achievement was high. ● For more information, join Suddenly, that 5.30am alarm call felt worth it. the group at /G.A.L.S.muscat There really is no better way to start the day. APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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CARS AND ADVENTURES HEADY HEIGHTS
Hillbrow Tower (right) a tall structure located in the suburb of Hillbrow, is a popular landmark in the Johannesburg skyline.
TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO: 1. Visit the Botanical Garden and Emmarentia Dam 2. Play with cubs at Lion Park 3. Take a minibus tour of Soweto 4. Visit Gold Reef City and ride The Anaconda 5. Have a meal at one of the Spur Steak Ranches
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Destination
Outdoors
Y-Fi
Cars
POSTCARDS FROM
Matthew Herbst recommends
JOHANNESBURG H
owzit! Welcome to Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa and my home turf. Some may think of Jo’burg as a concrete jungle filled with nothing other than crime, however, it’s actually a thriving cultural hub, packed with history from its gold rush era, through to apartheid and the fo r m i n g o f t h e r a i n b o w n a t i o n . I n s o u t h e r n J o h a n n e s b u r g i s the infamous Soweto, an urban area that carries an enormous amount of historical importance. Here you can find The Nelson Mandela National Museum, commonly referred to as Mandela H o u s e , w h e r e t h e fo r m e r P r e s i d e n t l i v e d f r o m 1 9 4 6 t o 1 9 6 2 . Jo’burg is huge and residents divide it into north, south, east and west, as well the Central Business District (CBD). T o t h e e a s t o f J o h a n n e s b u r g y o u c a n f i n d w a t e r y fu n a t t h e V a a l R i v e r , w h i c h i s 1 , 1 2 0 k m l o n g , a n d fo r m s t h e b o r d e r between Mpumalanga, Gauteng and North West provinces on its n o r t h b a n k , a n d t h e Fr e e S t a t e p r o v i n c e o n i t s s o u t h . I f y o u prefer a short safari break, nip over to a small private game reserve to catch a glimpse of a buck or, if you’re lucky, catch female lions on the hunt. You can also take a leisurely drive westward from the bustle of Johannesburg and within an hour you’ll discover the enchanting Magaliesburg. This small town, situated below the Witwatersrand mountain range, lies at the h e a r t o f b e a u t i fu l v a l l e y s , r i v e r s a n d i n d i g e n o u s w o o d l a n d . I f you fancy luxury, head towards Sun City in Bophuthatswana, a resort two hours from Jo’burg, which also neighbours exquisite private game reserves.
NELSO N MAN DELA MUSEU HOUSE M IN S OWETO
My favourite place
This is difficult as I grew up in Jo’burg and so many places became my favourites. However, the Rose Garden in the Johannesburg Botanical Garden next to Emmarentia Dam, south of the CBD, is probably one of the best. In this English tiered garden you can take a pleasant stroll to see many varieties of roses, indigenous herb patches, or view an amazing collection of succulents along with terraced ponds and fountains. It really is hard to believe you’re in the middle of a busy city. The surrounding gardens at Emmarentia Dam are also beautiful. The gardens are free to enter and always good for a picnic or family walk.
EM M A R EN TI
A DAM
Highlights
You must start off with a minibus tour to Soweto to get an insight into the township’s history, including a visit to Nelson Mandela’s house, as well as the Hector Pieterson Museum. Step inside one of the residential shacks in Soweto, then head off to experience lunch with locals at a Shebeen (local café). My advice is to take a tour rather than wander around on your own. It’s safe, but Soweto is huge and you could get lost. Walking tours start from around RO12 per person, while a minibus split between friends is about RO13 per person. Afterwards, take a trip to Gold Reef City, an historical amusement park located on an old gold mine, where you can experience what it felt like to go down into the mines, and see the original architecture and clothes from the 1800s. You can also ride The Anaconda, one of only two inverted rollercoasters in the world. If you’re feeling flush, buy some gold as a souvenir. It’s also said that if you’re strong enough to pick up a bar of gold with just one hand, you’re free to keep it – although no one has managed so far. Don’t miss Lion Park, the 500-acre wildlife conservation enclosure that is home to over 80 lions, including rare white lions. A real thrill is being able to play with lion cubs raised in captivity.
Lowlights
Johannesburg is, unfortunately, no stranger to crime. So it’s best not to travel on your own unless staying with local residents. Public transport isn’t great either, nor are taxis readily available, leaving the safest option to hire a car if you want to get around.
Souvenirs
Jo’burg is famous for its curio shops and flea markets, where you can find hand-carved wooden statues of the “Big Five” (five of Africa’s greatest wild animals – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.) Authentic tribal drums and ornamental spears are also a good buy. Learn the art of haggling or you’ll pay the price.
Where to stay
LIONS
CUBS
AT LIO N PAR K
Jo’burg has hundreds of excellent hotels to suit all budgets. The best of them can be found in the northern suburb of Sandton, such as the Hilton Sandton hotel and the very popular Sandton Sun. Here, you’ll be close to a luxury mall and chic cafés and restaurants. For something different, try local tribe lodges around the outskirts of the city.
APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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-FI THE TECH IN YOU
Y-FI
FAMILY TECH Technology permeates our lives from an early age and there is something for all members of the household, no matter their age. Matthew Herbst brings you a guide to the best family-orientated gadgets
HEAD OF SECURITY To assist dad in keeping a secure eye on the family why not gift him this Doorbot WiFi Enabled Smart Doorbell. It allows him to see and talk to visitors from his smartphone or tablet, no matter where he is. It also features handy night vision abilities with adjustable camera angles. Very smart indeed. Available at amazon.com from RO69.30.
KID TRACKS The hereO GPS Watch is cute, but it also serves as a GPS tracker for kids aged three and up. The gadget syncs with a location app that the whole family can use to share whereabouts, meaning you can keep track of your little ones wherever they are. It also comes with other security-focused features, like a panic mode that immediately sends an alert to parents. Order yours now for RO69 at hereofamily.com
SMART SHOOTER
EDITOR’S PICK
Help mum build great memories and take better photos and video at the same time with the Canon PowerShot N. It's a pocketable, attractive, and fun option for snapping photos and movies, which she can then share on the go thanks to an impressive Wi-Fi feature. Available at canon-me.com from RO115.13.
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JUST TEEN ALL TEENS ARE MUSIC MAD; IT'S PART OF GROWING UP AND ALLOWS FOR INDIVIDUALITY IN SOCIAL SCENES. GIVE YOUR TEEN THE STAMP OF COOL APPROVAL AMONGST THEIR FRIENDS WITH THE NIXON MINI BLASTER SPEAKER. IT'S TINY YET INCREDIBLY LOUD AND CAN SLIP INSIDE THE SMALLEST OF SCHOOL BAGS. GREAT FOR BOYS OR GIRLS AND IT ALSO COMES IN A RANGE OF FUNKY COLOURS. CHECK OUT THE OPTIONS AT SHOPBOP.COM, PRICES START FROM RO38.50.
UNI FUN If the young adult in the family has just started university then this Brookstone HDMI pocket projector is a useful tool for those who live in dorm rooms or small apartments. The projector will allow them to watch their movies – or lecture recordings – on a wall. Grab this handy bit of kit at amazon.com from RO115.13
App of the Week
CHORE DUTY
ChoreMonster is an ideal reward app for families with kids who are less than enthusiastic when it comes to chore duty. Getting kids to help around the house can sometimes be a costly affair with bribes, but ChoreMonster changes all that by offering gaming or TV time in return for domestic help. When your little monster completes his or her chores they'll earn virtual points, which they can then cash in for instant gratification. Free and available for both iOS and Android.
NEW BELLABEAT SHELL The Bellabeat Shell is two things in one. When Mum is pregnant, the sound gadget detects the baby's heartbeat, kicks, and movements and you can even use it to play music to baby in the womb. After birth, it acts as a monitor that recognises seven different types of crying. An additional bonus is that it can track the air humidity and temperature in the nursery. Preorder for RO45.81 at bellabeat.com
ÜBER CUTE Ubooly puts a fresh spin on plush toys by making your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad or integral part of your child's play. Zip your smart device into the cuddly body, activate the Ubooly app and the interactive fun begins. The toy listens and responds to a person's voice and falls asleep when ignored. Part of Ubooly's ongoing charm is that it can constantly be updated with new stories, jokes, games and songs to keep kids engaged. Parents can now rest easy in the knowledge that their smart device is safe from harm in furry casing, while kids get to play with their parents' gadgets to their heart's content. Available at ubooly.com from RO11.54 APR 16 - 22 / ISSUE 366
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CARS AND ADVENTURES
D e s t i n at i o n
Postcards from
Outdoors
Y- F i
CARS
Mitsubishi Pajero 2014 Specifications: Long- wheelbase Engine: 3.6L/3.8L V6 All Wheel Drive Horsepower: 184 Transmission: Automatic Torque: 303Nm Acceleration: 0-100kph in 12.5 seconds Top Speed: 180kph
The ultimate workhouse, the Mitsubishi Pajero remains a favourite among Oman’s SUV drivers. Shaquel al Balushi takes it for a spin
I
am a man who usually prefers to let his photographs do the talking. This time, however, I was given a different assignment by my editor to not only do a test drive but then write about it. Well, here goes with my debut car review. I have two cars that I use; an old battered saloon that has gone with me nearly everywhere for work and a smarter one that comes out when I’m off duty and need something a bit more respectable. SUVs are not really my bag. I’ve had plenty of experience of 4x4s as a passenger and occasional driver of my friends’ cars, but I’ve never felt the need or desire to invest in one myself. It’s quite fitting that my test was with one of the classics of the market, the Mitsubishi Pajero. Drive down Muscat’s highway during busy times and the chances are a Pajero will be in the near vicinity such is their ubiquity. I was test-driving the older 2014 model for Y. The new 2015 version is already available and we’ll be taking this out when a test vehicle becomes ready in the Sultanate towards the end of the month.
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Meanwhile, let me tell you about my day behind the wheel of the Pajero. From the outside, there is nothing spectacular about the design; it’s rugged, tough and built to last. It looks like it could handle just about anything, which is just as well as I was taking it on a little trip up a mountain. It means that it doesn’t necessarily look the prettiest of SUVs, but this vehicle is not about frivolity. Inside, the cabin is all about functionality over chic design. Don’t get me wrong, it’s all put together really well and everything is in its place, giving the driver a commanding sense of the road. We headed off to Jebel Akhdar. I found the steering a little heavier than I expected but responsive nonetheless. As a vehicle, it feels strong and reliable, capable of dealing with any sort of environment, from shopping malls and highways, to wadis and deserts. Our party consisted of just my friend and I, but the car would happily seat two large adults in the back, with a third at a squeeze. The driving position was comfortable and the ride pretty smooth. As the
road twisting up the Green Mountain is all tarmac, we didn’t get much chance to test its real off-road capabilities but I can say that it munched its way through the kilometres up the mountain with a steady, if slow, pace. When it really came into its own was the incredibly steep track we faced on our journey at one point, an almost vertical drop, but our Pajero had no fear as it guided us down safely in low gear with no drama. As you would expect, the Pajero is loaded up with all sorts of safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Brake System), differential lock, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), Dynamic Stability Control and traction control, all designed to ensure a smooth passage for you and your vehicle at all times. By the time we were down the mountain and heading back to Muscat, I had formed a good bond with my Pajero. We understood each other’s needs and my Pajero didn’t let me down, which is why I imagine owners of this vehicle buy it. This tank-like car will just keep on going and, like the Terminator, can’t be stopped whatever is in its path (within reason). I’m looking forward to seeing what the 2015 version can do now.
They say: “No ordinary SUV.” We say: “Just keeps going.”
ABS Dynamic Stability Control Foldable rear seats Chrome plated radiator grille Power windows front and rear Map reading lights 16” alloy wheels Automatic AC Six speaker radio and CD player Odometer