Y Magazine #378, July 9, 2015

Ramadan Giveaways

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JUL 09 - 15 2015 / ISSUE 378 • WEEKLY

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DOES MUSCAT NEED MORE MALLS?

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TRUE COLOURS

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EYE SPY

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COMPETITION

EDITOR’S

NOTE

Our Spirit of Ramadan competition continues this week and with only two weeks to go, the prizes are getting better! For details – and the chance to win a Dell Inspiron 15 laptop – turn to P30. And to check if you’re a winner from last week, go to P32.

THE BAROMETER GOING UP

DIABETES A new study by Sultan Qaboos University has warned that the number of people suffering from type 2 diabetes will skyrocket to 350,000 by 2050, up from about 90,000 people who are currently living with the disease.

GOING DOWN

WATER SUPPLIES Farmers on Jebel Akhdar are experiencing severe water shortages, with many complaining that crops are under threat due to a lack of rain in April, May and June.

THIS WEEK… Team Y has been out and about to a few Iftars, experienced our first Qaranqashow at The Wave, Muscat, and was taken back to our childhood with a retro dinner of bangers and mash.

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

Fast forward

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hey say that a spot of retail therapy can do wonders for your mood. Then again, too much of a good thing can take the fun out it, not to mention busting the limit on your credit card (although I’d like to think that everybody uses the plastic fantastic responsibly!).

I’m sure that many of you have noticed that the retail scene has undergone a huge change in the capital, more so with the recent opening of Oman Avenues Mall in Al Ghubra. A sleek, chic and shiny experience, it’s taken retail therapy to a whole new level in the city.

But that’s not the end of it. There’s quite a few new super malls in the pipeline – all of them boasting great shopping and entertainment, from alpine villages to aquariums, IMAX theatres, dance studios and gyms. A one-stop destination for all our needs, if you will.

But as more mall developments are announced, one has to wonder: is it too much and will the capital’s retail sector become too overcrowded? In our cover story this week, Y explores the changing retail scene and looks at this very question. Our conclusion is interesting, more so when you consider the size of the population versus disposable income, which is less than many of our GCC neighbours.

Elsewhere, we head to Provence in Postcard, check out some über-cool spy gadgets in Y-Fi and enter week four of our Spirit of Ramadan giveaways, in which you can win a Dell Inspiron 15 laptop and all the kit to go with it.

Have a fabulous week!

editor@y-oman.com

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi MANAGING EDITOR Felicity Glover

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JUL 09 - 15 / ISSUE 378

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contents

Feature 16 Retail Therapy

Is Muscat Having A Mall Overload?

JULY 09 - 15 2015

Your Oman 06 Iftar With Deeba

The Hussain Family 08 Voice Of Oman

Matt Blackwell 10 News

Robbery Bust 12 News

Eid Airfares Rocket

19 Ramadan Car Guide Premium Crossovers

This Week 14 Movie Listings

Dark Summer

14

25 #FYI

The Highest-Paid

Hollywood Actresses

16

10 Cars and Adventures

Food and Drink

40 Destination

Barka By Night

28 Food Feature

Learn With Food

42 Postcard From

Provence

Health and Beauty

28

44 Y-Fi

Eye Spy

34 Fashion

Colour Me Beautiful

46 Photo Of The Week

Speed Of Light

36 Beauty Window Dress Your Eyes 37 Health Health Watch

34

44

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

OMAN’S SPRINGS OF LIFE / POSTCARD FROM / MOVIES / TASTE TEST / Y-FI / HEALTH / NEWS

My IN THE THIRD PART OF OUR SERIES, DEEBA HASAN VISITS AN EGYPTIAN FAMILY IN AZAIBA TO EXPERIENCE SOME AUTHENTIC ARABIAN HOSPITALITY

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or the third week of Ramadan, Mohammed Hussain Ali, an engineer, invited me to have Iftar with him and his family at their home in Azaiba. On entering their house, I was greeted by Mohammed’s two young boys, Adam and Yahya, and shortly afterwards I was welcomed by Mohammed’s mother-in-law, Nadia, and then by his wife, May. While the Iftar was being laid out on the table, Adam and Yahya took it upon themselves to entertain me, talking about school, their friends and anything else that popped into their heads.

Around 10 minutes later, some delicious aromas started to waft through from the kitchen and although the dining table seemed almost full, I was told that there was still more to come. I saw lasagna, whole roasted chickens, fajitas, an Egyptian speciality rice dish, soup, meat curry and some salad, all of which had been lovingly prepared by Nadia and May. Mohammed told me that this was all part of traditional Egyptian hospitality. “We don’t have such a heavy Iftar every day, but when a guest comes into our home, the table has to look like this,” he says.

With the call to prayer, we broke our fast with the soup and slowly moved to the Egyptian rice and the special chutney that accompanied it. May recommended that I try some fajitas and chicken legs with it and it was tasty.

Next, I was asked to sample the lasagna, which was equally good. In fact, it would be fair to say that the entire Iftar spread was sumptuous.

While we were eating, Mohammed told me that although Adam speaks English at the American school he

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attends, the family speaks in Arabic at home because they want their children to learn both languages well.

I asked Mohammed’s mother-inlaw whether Iftars nowadays differ from when she was young and the first thing she told me was that previously, the family used to have Iftar together at least once a week at the parents’ house. “If someone did not show up, the mother used to get very upset, so you knew you had to have an Iftar meal with the family at least once a week, even if you lived in a different house,” she says.

Mohammed told me that when he lived in Egypt as a boy, Ramadan was a grand affair that people celebrated in many ways.

“Families used to light up fanous [colourful lanterns] around the neighbourhood to celebrate the occasion,” he says. “The lanterns became so widespread that fanous making became a popular art and they were made using different colours and designs. Families who couldn’t afford them would put up small coloured flags outside their houses instead.”

Another interesting Ramadan celebration in Egypt is the singing of songs. “When the month of Ramadan was very close, kids used to sing Ramadan songs, most of them saying that Ramadan is coming,” May recalls. “But it doesn’t really happen anymore,” she sighs.

Despite being away from Egypt, Mohammed says that Egyptians maintain their culture and traditions very well. “Wherever you go in the world, you will find we break our fast the same way, even with all the modernisation, we don’t let our traditions and culture get influenced.

“In Ramadan, it is an important part of our Iftar to exchange food with our neighbours and we never come back empty handed, because the neighbour would put something from their spread onto our plate. It is a practice that has been going on for ages.”

Mohammed also made me try some soft biscuits called “Kahk-alEid”, which are specially made for the occasion of Eid. “The mother plans the recipe and the ingredients

and the daughters help with the making of the biscuits, although it is a very tedious job, especially in the past when there were only manual tools to work with,” he tells me. “The mother prepares them for the whole family on Eid because it is such a special occasion.”

Mohammed’s mother-in law, Nadia, can make several varieties of the biscuits.

When it was time to leave, Mohammed told me that I could come to their house whenever I liked, now that I knew where they lived. His family definitely pulled out all the stops in their attempt to make me feel at ease and I thoroughly enjoyed the warm Arabian hospitality.

THE VOICE OF OMAN MATT BLACKWELL ON REGAINING THE FEELGOOD FACTOR

correspondence MIXEDMESSAGES Ramadan Giveaways

Dear Editor,

NEXT WEEK:

SAYYIDA MAYA AL SAID

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JUL 09 - 15 / ISSUE 378

“Spreading Goodness” [Issue 377] was quite motivational for all the business houses that believe in Corporate Social Responsibility and I sincerely appreciate the Goodwill Journey mission of Ooredoo.

However, it is very important to make it clear to Y readers that it is a misconception that Ramadan is a month to give back and show the less fortunate that we care for them. In fact, Ramadan is a month of practice to strengthen our obedience to God and then carry on the mandatory spiritual, social and moral responsibilities throughout the year.

We Muslims have been advised by our Creator to carry on our social responsibility by caring and sharing non-stop throughout the year until we enter the next blessed month of Ramadan.

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GOOD DEEDS TAKE CENTRE STAGE

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here are times in life when we can feel a bit flat. It’s only natural as, after all, no one can be happy all the time and those who put on a brave face can often find that problems pile up quickly, leading to cracks in the perfectly polished veneer.

I’m very much a believer in a healthy body leading to a healthy mind and so when everything gets a bit much, I just run.

Not away from my problems, of course, just a little 5.6-kilometre circuit I’ve marked out in the area close to my home, although the effect is similar. I find that when I’m out there, nothing really matters apart from my methodical strides and staying in control of my breathing.

Back at home, I’ll be drenched in sweat (especially in the current humidity), but feeling on top of the world.

Exercise causes the body to release chemicals called endorphins, which interact with receptors in the brain to generate that feel-good factor.

Not only do problems seem to melt away for that 30-minute or so period, but there’s the added bonus of knowing you’re doing something beneficial for your body.

So, my advice is to just give it a go. Next time you’re feeling down, stressed, confused or fed up with life, take the streets and pound the pavement or pump out a hard-hitting gym session.

You might find it helps you clear your head and, of course, if you keep it up, you’ll soon have the figure to match your mindset!

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Kind regards, Mohammad Osama Rawat Ruwi

DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

Has Ramadan lost its true meaning through commercialism?

HASSAN ASIF

Yes, it is true Ramadan has lost the focus on the worship we should do and the reason is commercialism. During Ramadan we should ask Allah for mercy, but I don’t see it anymore, all I see is people busy in stores buying stuff.

Unfortunately, Ramadan has turned into a big sale.

SOPHIE TAYCO

Ramadan is a Holy Month for Muslims. Time should be devoted more to praying, offering sacrifices and asking for forgiveness from the Lord, as opposed to enjoying shopping in the malls. If a person is able to do that, and

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

be away from temptations, he or she is doing something that is pleasing to God. Do not be lured by promotions during Ramadan and keep your focus on God.

FAISAL CHUGHTAI

Consumerism, especially in Oman, has increased, resulting in increased debt. Ramadan and Islam have nothing to do with it.

USHAKIRAN KAKKAD

This is becoming woefully true. Prayers have become symbolic and Iftars are slowly turning into private feasts. The traditional ways are more purifying.

ADEEBA FATIMA

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship; it should not be a month of making profit or boosting business. This is the month for renewing our commitment and reestablishing our relationship with our Creator and believers should seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness and protection. It offers every Muslim an opportunity to strengthen their Iman, purify their heart and soul and to remove the effects of the sins they have committed.

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When I was in high school in the late 1990s, Ramadan was all about high spirituality, good food and intimate family time. When I was 10, I wished the whole year could be Ramadan. My vivid memories of this Holy Month are so enduring that I always find it difficult to adapt to the commercialised nature of Ramadan we have come to experience these days. I am deeply pained to see many of us turning a blind eye to the spirituality of this month, turning it into a season of consumption and commercialism. Of course, when we are turned into mere captive consumers, we should point the finger at the huge commercialisation machine that keeps telling us we are good citizens only when we prove that we are good consumers.

ZAKIA SHAHZAD

Not at all, the beauty of Ramadan is that it gives us a lot of privileges that we could not enjoy in other months.

IRWIN SERSO RIO

Yes, commercialism influences the way that Ramadan is celebrated nowadays.

Ramadan is supposed to be a month of fasting, prayers, reflection and charitable work, but over the years, commercialism has taken its toll and it has become a month of feasting, shopping and parties.

While commercialisation of Ramadan seems inevitable, Muslims should not be distracted and should uphold the true values of Ramadan. Commercialism per se is part of how the world evolves, but it should not be the reason to neglect one’s own culture and beliefs.

JASON FELIX NORONHA

The Holy Month of Ramadan is a time when our Muslim brethren get the opportunity to be at peace with their inner self, come closer to Allah and help the less fortunate. Unfortunately, these days it has also become a time when supermarkets, department stores and hotel chains release new in-your-face promotions that totally defeat the spirit of Ramadan. Senseless buying sprees and wastage are now the norm rather than the exception.

SYED QAISER JAFRI

To some extent yes, and the media is also responsible for it. With the beginning of Ramadan, TV channels start various

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cooking programmes and people follow this trend in their home by making the dishes prepared on screen, resulting in the waste of lots of food and weight gain. Ramadan is for fasting, praying, helping the needy and asking for God’s forgiveness, but the new generation is slowly forgetting this because instead, they are busy with other activities and some see fasting as a burden.

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DAVID AND AMIRA were spotted with their favourite Y Magazine at AMIDEAST in Ghala

KRISHNA SANAL

Ramadan is a time to practice the simplicity of life and focus on the good. It is a time to kill the gossip, cursing and cravings, a time to heal with prayer, tolerance and faith. Ramadan will never lose its charm for those who understand it. It is a time of inner refreshment, regardless of buying patterns.

PREEJI JAYASREE

Ramadan provides a break from the everyday. Along with fasting prayer and devotion, the pace of life changes significantly during this month. Ramadan is a boon for retailers in the Middle East and while some Muslims welcome this as a positive sign, others see it as the commercialisation of a sacred time of year.

SURAYA MOHAMMED

Back in the olden days, Ramadan was welcomed wholeheartedly with its true meaning of giving and sharing with the less-fortunate. Suhoor and Iftar were given for free at hotels with dates and a few snacks provided without the intention of making profit. But with the onset of commercialism, Ramadan has become more about promoting the hotels with dinner coupons, or large organisations having Iftar parties and posting the photos in newspapers. The price paid for such occasions per person could easily feed at least five hungry people. Personally, I would prefer spending the same budget on donating food and water.

GERBY DE JESUS

There should be no debate or argument about it. Just like life, it’s about change and reflection.

MUSCAT RESIDENT

No, throughout the whole year we need items in our homes and shopping beforehand saves a lot of time. Should hotels and businesses be closed during Ramadan? No, so everyone has a right to do their business their own way.

New Debate: “Should people be educated about the dangers of overeating at Iftar? If so, how?”

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NEWS

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OFF FOR EID? CLEAR YOUR FINES FIRST

ith Eid just over a week away, it’s holiday time as people prepare to head off overseas for a break to mark the end of Ramadan.

But before you do, just make sure that you pay any outstanding traffic fines first or you won’t be able to leave the country, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has warned again this week.

All expats leaving the Sultanate – by land, air or sea – must settle their traffic violations, both local and those given out in other GCC countries, even if they are just leaving on a short break or holiday.

The ROP set up traffic fine clearance operations at the airports and borders in January this year for expats leaving the Sultanate permanently. But as of June 1, this was extended to collect owing fines for anyone departing temporarily as well.

“The traffic fines [local and Gulf Cooperation Council] imposed on them has to be cleared before ending their travel procedures, whether their departure is final or temporary,” said a notice from the ROP published in the media this week.

Anyone with outstanding fines will be stopped from leaving the country at immigration. To avoid any embarrassing scenes, drivers are advised to check first whether they have any fines owing and pay up before

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travelling. This can be done easily on the ROP’s website.

According to recent figures, there could be quite a few people having to do just that. The number of traffic violations recorded during 2014 was said to be 6,015,323, an increase of more than 64 per cent compared with 2013.

ROBBERY GANG BUSTED IN BURAIMI ive members of a international gang wanted in Dubai for 40 robberies have been arrested by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) after they were

found hiding out in Buraimi.

The men, all reportedly from a South American country, had been convicted in the Emirates for a string of crimes and were said to be travelling on forged European passports.

They had arrived in Oman as tourists.

Police began investigating the men after their behaviour began to arouse suspicion and they were put under surveillance, said Colonel Mohammed Khalfan al Dughaishi, commander of the Buraimi Police.

When their hotel room in Buraimi was raided, a haul of jewellery, expensive watches, mobile phones, Arab and western currencies and tools used to commit crimes, were all discovered [pictured left].

A check with other GCC countries revealed that the gang was wanted in 40 robbery cases in the UAE. The ROP called for the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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l Wisal 96.5 FM has launched a special charity initiative this Ramadan, teaming up with Al Rahma Charity Team, the Early Intervention Center for Children with Disability and the Nida Al Khair charity to generate public donations.

The inspiration behind the Wisal Al Khair initiative is to help people in need, which is an important aspect of Omani culture, and raise awareness in the process.

“In our shows concerning society, we come across lots of stories of people who are in need and we are a well-reputed radio station, so we thought, ‘Why not build upon this reputation and extend it to a good cause like this one?’,” said Nadim Attieh, the station manager at Al Wisal.

Attieh said Wisal Al Khair was started during Ramadan because it is the month for sharing and caring, but added: “Although we have started it in Ramadan, this initiative is an ongoing one. We contacted the Ministry of Social Development and got an approval for three months, but we will be extending that.” While putting the initiative together, Al Wisal wanted to focus on a number of target areas. “We identified areas like supporting homes for renovation, helping people with disabilities, autism and helping children,” Attieh said.Every two or three months, Al Wisal will be changing the theme of the charity. In September, for instance, families with limited resources will be the focus of the campaign. “We are planning to do back-to-school shopping for kids from such families in September and we will focus on different themes throughout the initiative,” said Attieh. While Al Wisal has not set a target amount, Attieh said it is rewarding to see so many people donating to Wisal Al Khair and the cause.

To encourage more people to donate to the fund, Al Wisal has tried to make it as accessible and easy as possible. Donations can be made through Bank Muscat Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs). “We chose an account in

Bank Muscat because their CDMs are spread across the country in great numbers. We are also planning to launch a way in which people can donate through text messages, but that will take some time,” said Attieh.

To donate to Wisal Al Khair, the Bank Muscat account number is: 0302 0433 8560 0011.

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Rate offer is per room per night inclusive of taxes and service charges.

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Free use of the swimming pool and Health Club.

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JUL 09 - 15 / ISSUE 378

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YOUR

Gallery

Interview

NEWS

OMAN Eid Airfares Skyrocket

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hocked residents are calling for the appointment of a regulator to monitor flight prices after airlines spiked airfares by up to 500 per cent for people planning to travel during the Eid Al Fitr holiday.

According to local travel agents, many dates during Eid, which will begin on July 18 according to the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, have either been booked out or the cost has skyrocketed for certain destinations.

“Flight tickets to most Asian destinations have drastically gone up, while on some sectors the prices have increased by 500 per cent, making it difficult for those leaving Muscat after work on July 16,” one travel agent was quoted by local press as saying.

However, travellers to India face the biggest increase in the cost of flights, with Muscat to

T

he FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament, which was eventually won by the USA earlier this week, might have garnered the global headlines, but it was a junior girl’s football tournament in Montreal, Quebec, that was all the talk in Muscat recently.

Organised by the Agency for French Education

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Delhi jumping by 100 per cent above the normal fare, Muscat to Kochi spiking by 200 per cent and Muscat to Mumbai skyrocketing an incredible 500 per cent.

Airline industry officials deny that fares have increased because of Eid, saying it is simply a case of supply and demand, while peak season means higher prices.

One airline official said one-way fares from Muscat to Mumbai during the off-peak season start at about RO28, but peak season can see the cost jump to RO150. “Everything depends on supply and demand,” the airline official

Abroad, the School World Cup of Football was held from June 5 to 12, and attracted a host of female school football teams from around the world – including a team of 12 from the French School of Muscat.

Players aged between 11 and 13 competed in the week-long tournament, which also served to act as a cultural and educational exchange for

told a local newspaper.

It’s not just flights to India that have seen massive price jumps – travellers to Europe during Eid are also being hit in the pocket, with a return flight to London costing about RO650 or RO530 to Paris – more than double the usual fare.

“The unbelievably high airfares show that a country like the Sultanate of Oman needs a regulatory authority. Developing countries need such regulators as one cannot leave everything to market forces,” said one resident of Muscat.

the girls. The French School of Muscat team was competing against schools from around the world, including Canada, China, Spain, the US, France, Italy, Lebanon and Norway.

François Villon school from Paris won the tournament, beating Montreal’s Stanislas College in a nail-biting final that saw them edge home with a 1-0 victory.

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

The Boxcar Children

Dark Summer

Summer is normally a time for adventures and fun, but 17-yearold Daniel Austin (Keir Gilchrist) finds himself under house arrest with no access to the internet after being convicted for cyberstalking his classmate, Mona (Grace Phipps). His friends manage to sneak him in a tablet so he can get online, but when the object of Daniel’s cyber-longing commits suicide on camera in front of his eyes, he soon finds himself plagued by her restless and malevolent spirit.

Many haunted house horrors leave audiences wondering why the central characters don’t just move after experiencing several supernatural disturbances, but Dark Summer flips this idea on its head, with Daniel unable to physically leave the house, lending the

film an immensely claustrophobic air.

Director Paul Solet works well with a relatively low budget, managing to create a few genuinely disturbing sequences (watch out for the séance), but beyond the originality of the initial premise, Dark Summer becomes too textbook. The scares are Poltergeistesque, the sole adult character, Daniel’s menacing probation officer, (Peter Stormare) is a walking cliché and the remaining cast lack distinguishing personalities.

Nevertheless, it’s a competent supernatural thriller and creates an interesting role reversal, with the male stalker becoming the target of his own victim.

Review by Matt Blackwell

PREVIEW

MAX A touching tale of a military working dog that suffers stress after the death of his handler, US Marine Kyle Wincott (Robbie Amell), during action in Afghanistan. Unwilling to listen to anyone else, Max is to be put down until he shows a connection with Kyle’s teenage brother Justin (Josh Wiggins) and is subsequently adopted – and therefore saved – by the family. Although Justin is unimpressed to begin with, the pair soon form a bond that helps return the four-legged veteran to his heroic self.

IN W O T E C N CHA R U O Y B A R G ETS K C I T A M E IN TWO CITY C

Based on the classic children’s literary franchise, The Boxcar Children follows four orphaned and homeless siblings who wish to stay hidden from the threatening adult world and strike out in search of a new home. They find an abandoned freight car from a train and set about furnishing it, using creativity and hard work to ultimately

Bollywatch BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN

Slated to be in cinemas in time for Eid, Bajrangi Bhaijaan tells the story of a young Pakistani girl who becomes separated from her mother at an Indian railway station and is given shelter by Pavan (Salman Khan), a devout Hindu.

Against all odds, the magnanimous Pavan sets out to reunite the girl with her family after making her a solemn promise.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN, just answer a question based on the week’s cinema reviews and send your answer to info@y-oman.com, along with your name and contact information.

Contact: Movie enquiries 24607360

JUL 09 - 15 / ISSUE 378

The Culling Five fresh-faced friends pile into the car for a road trip and along the way stumble across a lost and lonely young girl, who they decide to return back home. When they find her parent’s house, the group are invited to stay the night and it doesn’t take long to figure out that something is amiss, with the couple clearly hiding something.

The acting is strong, but everything from the soundtrack to the script to the effects just feels slightly dated, as if this film was released 15 years too late – and that’s a generous estimate.

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

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flourish. Winner of the Best Animated Feature at the 2015 St Tropez International Film Festival, The Boxcar Children offers wholesome fun and is a warming tale of childhood independence that promotes values of resourcefulness and love.

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THIS WEEK'S QUESTION Which award did The Boxcar Children Win? LAST WEEK'S WINNER Darwin Kishore

O

Shopping in Muscat has never been more exciting, with new malls offering a bigger choice and different brands, but is the market becoming too saturated? Y Magazine takes a look at what’s in store Report: Kate Ginn and Deeba Hasan

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n September 10, Oman’s newest mall will open its doors for business, announcing its arrival on the shopping scene with a spectacular laser light show and celebrations throughout the day.

Panorama Mall in Al Ghubra will be rubbing retail shoulders with a host of modern new spaces that are changing the face of Oman’s retail landscape and how we will all shop in the future.

Another two big malls are planned for Muscat, one of which, Palm Mall Muscat, is already under construction on a huge site in Mabela on the outskirts on the city. A vast retail destination, it will give the Sultanate’s shoppers a taste of what is already on offer in Dubai and Doha.

An even bigger space, the Mall of Oman, which could be the biggest in the country, and a super-regional mall called Muscat Festival City, which would be anchored by Oman’s first Ikea store, near the new Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre, are also on the drawing board.

Total retail sales in Oman hit US11.9 billion (RO4.5 billion) last year, according to a global retail report by management consultants AT Kearney released last month. Retail sales are expected to grow at a steady 6 per cent through to 2020.

There is no doubt that Oman and Muscat, in particular, is experiencing significant expansion in the retail sector. The question is whether, in an increasingly congested and competitive market, there is room for so many businesses vying for consumers’ trade.

Panorama Mall, for instance, is just down the road from Muscat Grand Mall, which is, in turn, a mere credit card’s throw away from the latest kid on the retail block, Oman Avenues Mall.

Tony Ward, CEO of Allied Real Estate, which is building Panorama Mall, believes there is space for all.

“There is a huge demand in retail in Oman and that’s not being met,” says Mr Ward.

“A lot of the malls are just bringing the same brands. At Panorama, we will be introducing new brands and it will be a lot more of an interactive experience for customers.

“We feel that we are bringing something new into Oman.”

It’s not just Muscat that is experiencing this boom. Salalah Gardens Mall opened in 2013, Barka now has a swish new mall with a retail hub and the foundation stone for Nizwa Grand Mall was laid in January last year.

OMAN AVENUES MALL The Sultanate’s latest retail hub, Oman Avenues Mall, had been a hugely anticipated project even before its launch in May this year. A division of LuLu Group International and spread across a sprawling 105,000 square metres, the mall offers a glimpse into the dynamic retail future of Oman with its polished floor, slick advertising and gleaming chrome everywhere. Built over five levels, it has more than 200 brands under one roof, some new to Oman. UK pharmacy chain Boots will hopefully be one of these. When it’s fully open by the end of year, expect a cinema, bowling alley, business zone, gym and even an indoor rollercoaster.

PALM MALL MUSCAT This is one of the most exciting lifestyle projects under way in Oman. Under development by Al Jarwani Group (AJG) and covering a total plot area of 180,000 square metres, the Palm Mall Muscat will be located in Mabela, 14km northwest of Muscat International Airport. It’s an Omani development, costing around RO90 million and reported to be creating 2,500 jobs. Situated in a somewhat underdeveloped part of Muscat, the mall will feature the largest theme park in the Sultanate, a first-of-its-kind aquarium in Oman, a snow village with an ice skating rink and a 12-screen multiplex cinema with 4D technology. An amphitheatre, food courts and a family entertainment zone are also included in the plans, along with 70 branded hotel apartments.

With the foundation stone already laid, the mall is expected to open doors to visitors by the end of 2016 or beginning of 2017.

CITY CENTRE MUSCAT With an annual footfall of 98 million shoppers, City Centre Muscat is one of the most popular malls in the city. In 2013, it announced a massive expansion to keep up with the rapidly expanding retail landscape, saying it planned to add 60 new retail outlets as part of its 10,000 square metre expansion plan. Twelve of those new brands will be making their debut in Oman, while new dining outlets will include Paul from France, Kosibasia Turkish restaurant and the highly anticipated Shake Shack, a popular US burger institution.

The Mall of Oman is expected to look something along the lines of the Mall of the Emirates [pictured]

MALL OF OMAN Majid Al Futtaim Properties (MAFP), the UAE-based real estate giant which owns, operates and develops malls, hotels and residential communities in the MENA region, is behind the RO180 million Mall of Oman, a mega-shopping complex in Bawshar, slated to be the Sultanate’s largest and most comprehensive retail space. MAFP already has retail pedigree, owning and operating City Centres across the GCC, two of them in Oman – the Muscat and Qurum City Centres. Located on 157,000 square metres of land, the Mall of Oman will feature 350 stores, a leisure zone, VOX Cinemas and the children’s amusement centre, Magic Planet. Expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017, this shopping and entertainment destination is expected to generate 1,500 jobs towards its construction and a further 3,500 jobs once opened.

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MUSCAT GRAND MALL When it opened in March 2012, Muscat Grand Mall (MGM) was at the forefront of the retail scene and also the largest shopping space in the capital. But it is now facing stiff competition from Oman Avenues Mall and the soon-to-be-opened Panorama Mall, both just a stone’s throw away in Ghubra. In a bid to keep up, owner Tilal Development Company is planning an expansion of the parking area, as well as offering new entertainment options and introducing 100 new retail outlets.

PANORAMA MALL The next mall due to open, Panorama should be ready on September 10 this year. With a total leasable area of 21,000 square metres, it will sit below a large apartment and hotel complex, which will be key to its footfall. It is expected to feature a range of mid to highend brands, while major attractions will include water features, sculptures, a 4D IMAX cinema, a food court, a library and a health club.

IN NUMBERS – FOR MUSCAT • Average per capita monthly income of RO175 • Average household expenditure of RO900 per month • One third of monthly household expenditure (RO300) is on food • Around RO30 of monthly household expenditure is on dining out

* Source: The Changing Retail Landscape in Muscat, Developments & Opportunities by Cluttons, May 2014

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PREMIUM

CROSSOVERS

Established in 1917, Lincoln manufactured the most spectacular luxury cars with the most advanced engineering. Today, Lincoln stands at the pinnacle of automotive luxury and are more desired than ever before

FEATURES

T

he Lincoln MKC, is performance-minded and technologically savvy. It will greet owners with approach detection, an intuitive feature that senses when an owner is within a range of up to 2.4 metres, at which point the vehicle comes to life with a soft glow. Throughout the cabin, available open-pore wood trim, door-panel stitching, and exclusive Bridge of Weir® Deepsoft leather-trimmed seats accentuate the Lincoln MKC’s elegance and grace. The Lincoln MKC features a standard 2.0-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost turbocharged engine delivering a competitive 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm, the most torque per litre in its class. The Intelligent All-wheel drive evaluates road conditions in milliseconds and Torque Vectoring Control, standard across all models, increases the fun-to-drive factor.

Price Range:

From RO16,200

Active noise control Continuously controlled damping Electronic power assisted steering Torque vectoring control Active grille shutters Dual stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver knee airbag Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake Engine Transmission Horsepower Torque support Active park assist 6-Speed SelectShift® Automatic 2.0L EcoBoost Lane keeping system Transmission with Paddle Shifters 240 HP @ 5500 rpm 270 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm Vista Roof® with power shade Dual zone electronic automatic temperature control (DEATC) 10-way power driver seat with two-way “The Lincoln MKC sets new standards for the luxury crossover segment with high-end power lumbar and interiors, crisp handling and a potent engine. With features like Vista Roof With Power memory THX® II certified Shade, Dual Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, 10-Way Power Driver audio system with Seat with two-way power lumbar and memory, it offers a balance of driving dynamism 14 speakers and comfort.”

SYNC® with MyLincoln touch GCC navigation

SPECIFICATIONS

User Recommendation:

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To explore more, scan our QR code

Retail Enquiries: 24575900, 98050276, 92880658 Fleet Enquiries: 99477832 e-mail: fordacm@omantel.net.om Exclusive Showroom at Wattayah

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*Conditions Apply. Campaign Period: 14/6/2015 to 13/8/2015.

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A Lincoln is more than just an expression of luxury; it’s a way of life. The new line-up of Lincoln is crafted uncompromisingly with first-in-class features, premium elevated materials and sophisticated design in thoughtful details to create a more personalized, more refined, more intuitive experience.

A tradition of luxury. A celebration of generosity.

Welcome to the Lincoln Life.

PREMIUM

CROSSOVERS

With more than 125 years of experience, Mercedes-Benz is one of the world’s most prestigious and successful automobile companies

FEATURES

T

he new Mercedes-Benz GLA redefines the crossover segment with convincing style and world-class comfort, both on road and on difficult terrain, indulging its occupants in luxury. The high-quality appointments, developed with a loving attention to detail, and the flexible interior clearly position the GLA as a premium crossover vehicle. The modern four-cylinder engine provides turbocharging and direct injection, along with a standard ECO start and stop function that makes for superior efficiency. As the first Mercedes-Benz crossover, the GLA comes with the new generation 4MATIC all-wheel drive transmission, featuring fully variable torque distribution. The GLA is not just a crossover, it is first and foremost a Mercedes-Benz, combining the design values of progression and tradition, with its adventurous spirit being found wherever you look.

Price Range:

From RO18,995

SPECIFICATIONS - GLA 250 4MATIC Engine 2.0L

Transmission

Horsepower

7G-DCT 7-speed dual clutch transmission

Torque

Acceleration

350 Nm @ 1,200- 0-100 kph in 7.1 4,000 rpm seconds

211 @ 5,500 rpm

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive Special off-road driving mode

Top Speed 230 kph

Mode All-Wheel drive

Transmission

2.0L

AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-Speed Sports Transmission

Horsepower

Torque

360 @ 6,000 rpm

Acceleration

450 Nm @ 2,250- 0-100 kph in 4.8 5,000 rpm seconds

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/MercedesBenzOM

Reversing camera

Panoramic sliding sunroof

Top Speed

Mode

250 kph

All-Wheel drive

EASY-PACK tailgate Keyless-Go start function Tyre pressure monitoring system 7-speed dual clutch transmission Comfort Suspension 7 airbags as standard

“Whether for business, family, or leisure, the GLA delivers all around versatility, perfect for the Omani lifestyle. I’m confident that it will steal the hearts of drivers at first glance.” /MercedesBenzOman

Collision Prevention Assist Plus

Active Parking Assist

User Recommendation:

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Blind Spot Assist

SPECIFICATIONS - GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC Engine

Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR)

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www.mercedes-benz.co.om

Speed sensitive power steering Bi-xenon headlamps

Ramadan Mubarak.

Pure thinking. Pure living. Pure driving.

Exclusive package available across all models this Ramadan.

Mercedes-Benz offers you something you won’t find anywhere else this Ramadan - pure driving pleasure.

It’s the reward you deserve, with a reassuring package to ensure you can focus on the thrill of driving your new Mercedes-Benz.

•3 years / 45,000 kms service package •3 years unlimited mileage warranty •3 years Mobilo on road assistance •Free registration •V-KOOL® heat control film •A special gift for your mind, body and soul

Muscat: Al Wallaj Street, Qurum, Tel: 24659222, Sales Toll Free No: 80079333, E-mail: sales@mercedes-benz.co.om, Website: www.mercedes-benz.co.om. Facebook: www.facebook.com/MercedesBenzOman Ramadan Opening hours: Showroom: Sat - Thu: 8am – 12am, Service Reception: Sun - Thurs: 7am – 4:30pm.

Parts Reception: Sat - Thu: 7am - 5.30pm.

Sandra Bullock US$51 million (RO19.6 million) per annum*

* Based on estimated earnings between June 2013 and June 2014 Source: richestlifestyle.com

Jennifer Lawrence US$34 million (RO13 million) per annum

Jennifer Aniston US$31 million (RO11.9 million) per annum

Angelina Jolie US$18 million (RO6.9 million) per annum

Gwyneth Paltrow US$19 million (RO7.3 million) per annum

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te d a r b e re d l u e t c p n a a c er Om ke nd and Y at v o l l a n ee uscwell Childre ashow last w d around M lack Matt B d q n n a n a i Qara f the fun intos: Shaquel al Balush Pho some o

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To th ent in Oman, adan each ye ll v m rA unique e4th night of Raof Halloween o ies, 1 tr s n e on th to the custom western cou g Similar Eve marked in isit neighbourin r Hallows dress up and v or small gifts fo childrencollecting sweets ounger houses, songs. for the y ge them e g m ti in l g ia a sin ncour y spec It’s a ver and is said to e during the Holy n g o n generati journey to fasti famous in their ecome a uge event b . th to n n o w h M s, o gro nd a It has als an’s heritage a etimes big – kidnd m m a o O s s f part o by little – and tels, companie ic, enjoyed pping malls, ho vents with mus with sho s holding free e nd games. museum, face painting a es that hosted The dancing me of the venu vities included sah Just so how 2015 acti a’s Barr Al Jis L as Qaranq uscat, Shangri an Automobile tre, M m , e O v e a ial Cen W Spa, Th ommerc d Resort & on, SABCO C Grand Mall an ti t a ia c c s o s u s A ubair, M Bait Al Zy Centre malls. it both C

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FOOD AND DRINK

Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

CLEVER KIDS

Getting kids into the kitchen from an early age not only promotes healthy living, it can also make learning fun if done right.

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SPONSORED BY

TREND New Restaurant

LEARNING WITH FOOD

Sometimes getting the smaller diners of the family to eat can be a struggle but with a bit of planning, it can be as easy as ABC

I

f you’re searching for ways to get little ones excited about learning, try combining fun and function, using food as your teaching tool. Foods that come in letter shapes are a great way to introduce young learners to the alphabet and make learning delightfully F-U-N. Although it may contradict the popular mealtime mantra to “quit playing with your food,” teaching children to recognise letters using a familiar food, such as cereal, can actually be a great way to promote literacy and a love of reading early on.

You can get started promoting the joys of learning with the “snacktivities” and ABC Crispy Bars recipe opposite to make meal time as entertaining as it is educational for your littlest family members. Use a nutrient rich cereal, such as Post Alpha-Bits, so when letters start disappearing into those tiny tummies, you can feel good knowing each serving provides 12 of the essential vitamins and minerals growing kids need.

For more great recipes your family will love, visit postfoods.com

News

Snacktivities Family tree Draw a big tree with lots of branches on construction paper.

After the tree is drawn, write out each family member’s name on the branches with colourful markers. Encourage your little ones to match the letters you have written with letters from the Alpha-Bits box. Let them glue the cereal pieces to the tree so you can display their works of art on the refrigerator.

Vowel play Give your little one a one-cup serving of Post Alpha-Bits and ask them to eat all of the consonants and leave only the vowels. They’ll learn their letters a little better and get 20 grams of whole grains along the way.

ABC crispy bar ingredient ideas: §1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine §1 pack of miniature marshmallows §8 cups Post Alpha-Bits Cereal §Alphabet-shaped cookie cutters Method: §Line 13-by-9-inch pan with foil and lightly grease.

§Microwave butter in large microwavable bowl on high for 45 seconds or until melted. Add marshmallows and mix well. §Microwave on high for 1 1/2 minutes or until marshmallows are completely melted and mixture is well blended, stirring after 45 seconds. §Stir in cereal. §Press cereal mixture firmly into prepared pan. Cool. §Using the alphabet-shaped cookie cutters, cut cereal mixture into 12-15 pieces. §Store in airtight container at room temperature.

This week’s winner For your chance to win a RO10 voucher, simply come up with a new idea for a tea, coffee or smoothie flavour that would give Chatime customers a taste sensation. The competition will run for 12 weeks and every winner will go forward to be considered for the Grand Prize. Send your entries to info@y-oman.com by July 13.

Jonitha D’Cruz

Winning flavour:

Watermelon and lime frosty smoothie with mixed fruit ice cream

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The Spirit of

THE HOLY MONTH IS ABOUT SHARING AND GIVING AND Y HAS SOME SPECIAL

Win a Dell Laptop Our prizes just keep getting better and this week we’ve got a Dell Inspiron 15 laptop to give away, along with a wireless mouse, multimedia speakers and a laptop bag, to give you the complete digital package. It’s a sleek and stylish-looking piece of kit and the 3840 x 2160-pixel 15.6-inch screen ensures stunningly crisp images at all times. To enter, you’re going to need to send us your most creative photo of you at work or play, featuring a copy of Y Magazine in some way, to Y’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram platforms before July 13. But you have to like or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to confirm your entry. And don’t forget to use the hashtag #YRamadanGiveaways.

Meals at Mokha This week, the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel is giving away dinner for two people at its elegant Mokha Café, which overlooks the hotel’s picturesque gardens. To enter, get down to the Grand Hyatt and take a picture that typically encapsulates Ramadan for you. Think more than just food; it can include the hotel’s architecture, the lanterns, drapes and tents if you like. Post your photos on Y’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram platforms, tag the relevant Grand Hyatt social media accounts and include the hashtags #RamadanakHyatt and #YRamadanGiveaways before July 13. Note: bookings must be made in advance.

Voucher includes soft drinks only.

A little over an hour away from the bright lights and bustle of Muscat, you’ll find the smooth sands and calm waters that surround the Millennium Resort Mussanah. The luxury hotel is offering one lucky reader a slice of relaxation in the form of a gift voucher that entitles them to a one-night stay in a deluxe room for two people. To enter, just answer this simple question:

Overnight Luxury

Which female-only facility makes Millennium Resort Mussanah unique in Oman?

A) Separate female entrance for the gym B) Ladies only pool

Send your answer to editor@y-oman.com before July 13 to be in with a chance of winning.

Voucher valid until Aug 17, 2015, excluding Eid. 030

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Ramadan

TREATS LINED UP FOR LUCKY READERS OVER THE NEXT TWO WEEKS

Baked Goodness

Win a Sparkling Reward For your chance to win a RO50 voucher to spend at SABCO Commercial Centre, just answer this simple question: What kind of musicians will be performing at the centre from July 9 to 11? Post your answer on our Facebook or Twitter account using the hashtag #SparklingRamadan and #YRamadanGiveaways or email us at editor@y-oman.com before July 13 to be included in the draw.

BreadTalk is giving away a gift voucher that entitles the bearer to a box of nine Ramadan items of choice, valid at Bareeq Al Shatti, City Centre Qurum and The Wave, Muscat. All you have to do is answer the following question: What is the name of BreadTalk’s mango cake?

A Mango Empire B) Mango Dynasty Send you answer to editor@y-oman.com before July 13 to be in with a chance of winning.

Tune Your Body

Fine Dining

Its restaurants have some of the most alluring settings in Oman and Al Bustan Palace, a RitzCarlton Hotel, is offering a lucky reader the chance to sample them with an Iftar at Al Khiran, where celebrity chef Issa al Lamki has designed a unique Ramadan experience with a dish created exclusively for the hotel. To enter, simply tell us in which year Al Bustan Palace was built.

Email your answer to editor@y-oman. com before July 13 for a chance to win.

(Voucher valid for one person, additional guests must pay separately).

Just like cars, our bodies have engines and regular servicing can reduce wear and tear. Enter the Engine Room, a service provided courtesy of Horizon Fitness that uses functional training to really push your fitness boundaries and show you what a finely tuned machine your body is. If this sounds up your street, enter our competition to win 12 Engine Room sessions by answering this question: How many Engine Room programmes are there?

A) 2 B) 4 Send your answer to editor@yoman.com before July 13 to be included in the draw.

Sizzling Steak If you’re into your steak, this competition is for you. To be in with a chance of winning a free dinner for two at Steak Escape at The Wave, Muscat, just answer this simple question: When was Steak Escape launched in Oman?

A) January 2010 B) January 2015 Send your answer to editor@y-oman.com before July 13.

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The spirit of

ARE YOU A WINNER OF ONE OF OUR FANTASTIC GIVE

Nikon Coolpix L340 Winner

Y was flooded with entries for this week’s star prize, the Nikon Coolpix L340. We asked you to send in your most artistic picture of Oman and you didn’t disappoint, with beautiful images coming in from the all around the country. From the Grand Mosque to wadis and from dunes to dhows, you certainly showed us that Oman has got some stunning scenary. It was a hard choice but in the end, our editor Felicity went for Shakib Mohamed’s picture of a traditional dhow.

Congratulations Shakib! Don’t worry if you didn’t win this time round, there are plenty more chances to bag a prize.

Wi nn

er

BEST OF THE REST Here is a selection of pictures sent in by our readers that didn’t win, but impressed Y’s editor. Is your photo here?

Abdul Haadi

Anuradha Karunakaran

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Gopa Kumar M

Ramadan

WINNERS

B•O•X

EAWAYS CELEBRATING THE HOLY MONTH?

LAST WEEK’S WINNERS

Congratulations to the following winners!

Grand Hyatt Muscat

GRAND HYATT IFTAR

Marianna Pereira for her image (left)

MILLENNIUM RESORT, MUSSANAH

Erickson Salapong for guessing it was answer A) Three years

SABCO CENTRE

Avril Saldanha for knowing that halwa is the Omani delicacy available at the centre each weekend

Kamal Ganatra

ENGINE ROOM, HORIZON

Hoban Fernandez for knowing that instructors called Mechanics lead the Engine Room sessions

Anil Vasoya

Ronak Bhatt

AL BUSTAN PALACE

Paula Tuck for knowing BLU is the name of the poolside bar at Al Bustan Palace

SECOND CUP

Michael Ramin

Abdulwahab al Bulushi

Connie A for knowing that Second Cup has eight branches

NANDO’S

Shafqat Shah

Fatima Faizuddin for knowing that Nando’s chickens should be marinated for 24 hours Abdulwahab al Bulushi

Anuradha Karunakaran

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

TRUE COLOURS

Embrace the colourful side of your personality with a bright palette of hues to reflect your mood. This floral print jumpsuit by F&F will keep you looking cool in the desert and city.

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL

We love this cute “LOVE” slogan clutch in the colour of moment – mint green. Great for casual outfits or a night out with the girls.

A bargain at only RO2.4 from Primark, but scour Muscat’s malls for similar versions

Add a splash of brightness to your wardrobe to transform your look

N

ot everything is black and white.

In fact, colour can be transformative.

It has the power to evoke emotion, alter your mood and stimulate one-of-a kind creativity. The shades and hues that capture a person’s imagination are as varied as people themselves. What colours capture you? Is it a colour you see or wear? Or is it a colour you have yet to experience?

To help you find the colours that inspire and transform you, US fashion designer Tracy Reese, known for her colourful style and clothing, says it is important to find your inspiration to determine your best hues.

“Some days I’m all about colour,” she says. “If you’re feeling bold, reflect that in the colours you wear with bursts of red, yellow or bright green and save those muted greys, blacks and navy blues for when you feel low-key.”

Being bold may not always suit your mood or style, and if you are more reserved you can still make a colour statement with pastel shades such as soft greens, pinks and baby blues.

Colour is about more than just the shade you see, it is also about your reaction to it.

“I think working with colours fuels the mind and spirit,” says Reese. “Colour can convey mood and emotion, time and place. Colour connects you to memories and propels you forward. There is so much rich colour around, it’s important to stop, take notice and use it to inspire.” * BPT

Channel the aviator look with these ultra trendy shades from Superdry.

These are sunsetcoloured, but they are also available in a range of other hues. From RO19

Strut your stuff in these mint-green cropped Walker Chinos by Crew Company. Dress up or down with either wedges or flats and team with a loose shirt. On sale for RO24

This Florence shirt-dress

by Crew Company is chic and feminine, effortlessly taking you from the office to a party. The salmon pink colour is flattering for most complexions. On sale for RO18

HUE ARE YOU?

These high flatform tropical espadrilles from Primark are fun and funky, but bang on trend for a cool summer look.

Team with cropped trousers to go from beach to the mall.

From RO6. Similar styles can be found in local stores

Tips on finding your colour

1. Use the ideas and personalities around you to get your own creative juices flowing so you can find your inspiration and perfect colours. 2. Embrace your mood and choose colours to reflect it. 3. Use conventional colour in unconventional ways.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

BEAUTY

Health Fashion

WINDOW DRESS YOUR EYES Gorgeous brows and lashes can transform your face, so it’s worth investing in a helping hand to look your best

E SCAN OUR QR CODES WITH ANY QR READER APP

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yes seem to be in vogue in Hollywood at the moment.

By that, we mean that all the attention on the red carpets beauty-wise is being dominated by eyes. Who can fail to notice celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Sofía Vergara, Keira Knightley and Lily Collins flaunting their full eyebrows and batting their long eyelashes at the cameras?

Achieving the look is easy if you’re lucky enough to be blessed with these natural assets, but in most cases, it takes time and a lot of effort. Which is where the latest trend in cosmetic surgery comes in. The new fad apparently is for eyebrow or eyelash transplants, with the technique being offered in clinics from the US to Dubai.

“Eyebrow/eyelash transplant is a very meticulous process, which uses hair grafts from one’s own scalp and implants them within your thinning eyebrows and eyelashes,” explains Anisa Vrabac, head of the Hair Transplant Department at Dubai

Cosmetic Surgery clinic.

“The hair grafts chosen for the procedure usually have a very fine texture and curvature of your original brows and lashes.”

Depending on the amount of hair loss suffered on the eyebrows and eyelashes, this creates a basis on the number of follicles to be harvested and used. “Sometimes it can be as little as 200 hair grafts for the eyelashes, while at other times it can be as high as 600 hair grafts for the eyebrows,” says Vrabac.

The Dubai Cosmetic Surgery clinic uses the latest technique called (rather a mouthful) Stem Cell Follicular Unit Extraction Hair Transplant.

If successful, the procedure will see the harvested and implanted hair grow into permanent and

healthy hair follicles, which end up as natural, flawless and full eyebrows and eyelashes.

Eyebrows and eyelash transplant relies on this technique to ensure zero failure rates, meaning that 100 per cent of the implanted micro grafts are guaranteed to grow. This happens due to direct implantation of the harvested grafts. “In addition, healing takes between three to seven days in both the donor site (back of your scalp) and recipient areas (either eyebrows or eyelashes), while 30 to 50 per cent of the donor area will re-grow within three to six months,” notes Vrabac.

Candidates for eyebrow/ eyelash transplants are not for cosmetic purposes. It’s also used by people whose thinning eyebrows or eyelashes are due to overplucking, overuse of fake lashes, accidents, burns, hereditary factors, chemotherapy, radiation and trichotillomania (pulling out hair).

Since your new eyelashes or eyebrows have come from your head, they might grow longer than required, which means you might need to trim and curl them often.

After the restoration procedure and you have your new eyebrows or eyelashes, it’s fine to colour, cut or shape them. “This is because they are now as natural as your previous brows and lashes,” says Vrabac.

Beauty

HEALTH

Fashion

HEALTH WATCH

During Ramadan, it’s important to keep an eye on your body and adjust to the monthlong changes

R

amadan is a special occasion for worshipping and praying. It is also a time when families prepare their favourite traditional foods and sit down together with relatives and friends to enjoy them.

While we have entered the fourth week of Ramadan, many are still following bad eating habits and routines. Dr Anita Gupta, a clinical dietician, and Dr Deepa Nair, a general practitioner at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, part of the group which has clinics in Muscat, have drawn up some guidelines to follow during the month of Ramadan to keep in tip-top health. ● Changes in your eating and sleeping habits can put the body under stress. Plan your schedule and meals ahead of time in order to make sure you get the necessary nutrients, hydration, and rest that your body needs. ● Eat Suhoor just prior to dawn. This morning meal is generally recognised as the single most important meal of the day. Avoid overeating, taking heavy meals before sleeping will put the body under stress. ● Take foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates and protein, fruits or vegetables, and plenty of water. For example: an egg on whole-grain toast, a few crackers with peanut butter, some orange slices, and two glasses of water. Take care to include mineral rich foods such as banana, raisins, cheese, yoghurt, beans and spinach in your diet. ● During the hottest part of the day, stay in cool areas (indoors or in the shade) and limit your physical activity. Rest if possible.

● Break your fast with dates and either milk, water, or fruit juice. After the Maghrib prayer, continue with a light starter such as soup and crackers or a handful of oats. After a long period of fasting, you need to bring your fluids and blood sugar level up without overdoing it. ● During the early evening (after Maghrib), make sure you have a well-balanced dinner, which contains items from each of the food groups such as bread, cereals, fish, chicken, meat, vegetables, fruits and dairy products. Eat your meals slowly.

For the bread or cereal group – especially for Suhoor – choose from whole grains, seeds, oats, semolina, beans, lentils, rice and wheat, as these are slow digesting foods. They can last up to eight hours and help keep you going and prevent constipation. ● Different coloured vegetables and fruits will provide you with the phytonutrients and antioxidants necessary for your body’s protection against certain diseases ● Fasting can often increase gastric acidity levels, leading to heaviness in the stomach, burning sensations or a sour mouth. To avoid this, it is better to eat foods rich in fibre such as whole wheat bread or cereals with milk, beans, hummus, vegetables and fruit for Suhoor. ● Do not overeat, and be sure to drink a few more glasses of fluids. Water flushes out toxins from our body and prevents dehydration. Sip on water throughout the evening. Aim for eight glasses by bedtime. To help you keep track, fill and refill a water bottle with a measured amount of water, and be sure to finish it. ● During the evening hours, resist the temptation to drink tea, coffee, cola and soda. When visiting

friends or family, ask for glasses of water. ● Serve yourself, your family, and guests a dessert of fresh fruit and nuts. There are lovely choices available in this season and they are much healthier than chocolates and candy. ● Light exercise, such as walking for 15-20 minutes, is best done in the evening hours. Do not over exercise. ● Avoid fried and spicy foods as they may cause heartburn or indigestion.

Also avoid salty food, as this can make you feel thirsty during long hours of fasting. ● Poorly controlled diabetics, diabetics on insulin, diabetics on oral medication, severe hypertensive and cardiac patients should not fast without previous consultation with the doctor. ● Continue to brush and floss your teeth several times a day for good dental hygiene. ● Wash your hands regularly, and avoid those who cough or sneeze. This is important to prevent the spread of viruses (such as seasonal flu and H1N1) and bacteria, which may cause illness. ● Organise your schedule so that you get enough sleep. ● Plan your menu so as to avoid constipation, acidity, kidney stones, lethargy, dehydration, muscle cramps, headaches and low blood sugar, which are the most common health problems during Ramadan.

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

• •

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• •

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• •

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

Muscat -3 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 •

•

College of Economics and Political Science • Students Banking Area • Reception/Canteen Wadi Kabir • Al Maya Hypermarket • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Pharmacy • National Hospitality Institute • Pizza Hut • Shell Petrol Station Wattayah • Ahli Bank • Best cars • BLS International Services • Chevorlet/GM showroom • Ford Showroom • Hatat House • Honda Showroom • Hyundai showroom • Kia Showroom • Lexus Showroom • National Travel & Tourism • Passage To India Restaurant • Shell Petrol Station • Subaru showroom • Suzuki Showroom • Toyota Showroom The Wave • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • The Wave Head Office Other Regions Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • LuLu Hypermarket Nizwa • University of Nizwa Sohar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Markets • Ooredoo • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port and Freezone • Sohar University

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CARS AND ADVENTURES

SECRETS WITHIN

Old mixes with new in Barka Souq, a great place for a spot of evening shopping over Ramadan

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

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

Y- F i

Destination

BARKA BY NIGHT

BARKA BUZZES WITH ENERGY LATE INTO THE NIGHT DURING RAMADAN AND THE SOUQ OFFERS COLOURFUL CONTRASTS AND FRIENDLY FACES, FINDS SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI 040

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I

around. Wherever I looked was awash with colour, whether it was the red glare of car taillights, the neon of the shop signs, or the items of the shops themselves hung on display, they all stood out beautifully against the surrounding darkness.

The streets were buzzing with people, some going about their daily errands – getting their hair cut or buying household goods – while others sat in groups on plastic chairs at coffee shops sharing drinks or a bite to eat.

I saw one young man getting his measurements taken for a new dishdasha and decided to step inside the shop. Walking through the door I was brought face to face with a wealth of different coloured fabrics, from vibrant yellow to deep blues and greens. While white is traditionally worn for formal events, for an evening function people will frequently wear a wider variety of strong colours and lighter shades are

know if this was just because it was Ramadan, but I like to think that this feeling of warmth lasts the whole year.

By the time I was ready to pack up my camera and leave I was covered with sweat thanks to the humidity, but was very happy with the images I’d managed to capture.

The traffic had eased slightly as I was leaving, but was still congested heading into the souq, even though the time was close to midnight.

Thankfully, I was heading back towards Muscat and home. often worn for casual activities.

One of the pictures that spoke volumes to me was of a door to an old shop or warehouse. It was badly rusted and the turquoise paint was chipping off, but the padlock that held its secrets safe was shiny and new, providing a sharp contrast between old and new.

I was reminded how beauty can be found in even the most ordinary of things and another one of my favourite things I saw was mass of tangled metal at an AC repair shop. It was just a box of parts, waiting for the shopkeeper’s attention, but to me it spoke of the chaos of modern life.

I meandered along a bit further, dropping into shops when the fancy took me, chatting to staff and shoppers as I went and the prevailing atmosphere was one of friendship and kindness. I don’t

HOW TO GET THERE TRAVEL GUIDE

’ve visited Barka Souq more times than I care to think of, but my most recent trip there at night showed the entire area in a completely different light – quite literally.

A change in my schedule meant that I ended up visiting the souq on a Friday night instead of Saturday as I’d originally planned and I’m glad I did, as I’m unsure whether I would’ve witnessed the same buzz on any other day.

I didn’t arrive until a little after 10pm due to a seemingly neverending trail of stop-start traffic, but after finally parking my car in the heart of the souq, close to Barka Fort, I was able to head out and explore.

Normally when I visit a souq, I go with a set goal in mind and my intention is very simple – to buy a dishdasha, a mussar or some other essential item – but this time I just went with the flow and walked, following the trail of lights. What I saw was fascinating.

Nearly all of the shops were still open, due to the amended timings for Ramadan and I saw tailors, barbers and vegetable sellers all working late into the night. Being in no rush, I was able to really appreciate the work of the people you normally take for granted. It was interesting to get a glimpse into the lives of tailors, for instance, those people who toil away into the early hours, ironing and stitching and whose hard work through the night makes us look good in the day.

Even those busy in their shops with work piled up behind them still took the time to pose and give me a broad grin when I pointed my camera in their direction.

Something else that struck me as I wandered the labyrinthine streets was the vibrancy of colours all

From Muscat, take the expressway as far as you can, exiting right when you come to the end.

Follow the road as it bends to the left, go left at the roundabout and then take the first right. This road takes you to the heart of the Souq.

GPS Location: N23° 42’ 31” E57° 53’ 42”

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CARS AND ADVENTURES HIDDEN WONDER

The harbour at Villefranche-sur-Mer, is a regular stop for Mediterranean cruise ships, with passengers disembarking to explore one of Provence’s gems.

TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO: 1.Visit the endless lavender fields 2.Drive around the scenic Luberon villages 3.Shop for fresh produce, souvenirs or flowers in the Provencal markets 4.Splurge at one of Aix-en-Provence’s incredible restaurants 5.Go back in time at the Roman ruins in van Gogh’s hometown, Arles

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Destination

Y-Fi

POSTCARDS FROM

Marjorie Lopes recommends

PROVENCE, FRANCE I

t ’ s n o c o i n c i d e n c e t h a t t h e Fr e n c h r e g i o n o f P r o v e n c e s e r v e d a s a drawing point of endless inspiration to several great 20th-century artists, such as van Gogh, Monet and Cezanne, to name a few.

Filled with hilltop medieval villages and countless flower fields, this r e g i o n , s t r e t c h i n g f r o m t h e Fr e n c h A l p s t o t h e M e d i t e r r a n e a n S e a , i s n o t h i n g s h o r t o f e n c h a n t i n g . M a n y o f Fr a n c e ’ s l i s t e d “ m o s t b e a u t i fu l v i l l a g e s ” a r e fo u n d t h e r e , a s w e l l a s t h e c o u n t r y ’ s m o s t r e n o w n e d g a s t r o n o m y , m a k i n g i t a v e r y w e l l v i s i t e d p a r t o f Fr a n c e . T h e w e l l k n o w n P r o v e n c a l m a r k e t s a r e s o m e o f t h e b e s t o u t d o o r fo o d m a r k e t s I h a v e e v e r s e e n - n o t o n l y fo r t h e h i g h - q u a l i t y p r o d u c e , b u t fo r the overall unique atmosphere. There are several larger cities in w h i c h v i s i t o r s c a n b a s e t h e m s e l v e s t o fu r t h e r e x p l o r e t h e r e g i o n .

Travellers arriving by plane will often fly into the seaport city of Marseille, in the Cote D’Azur, or smaller Avignon, and catch o n e o f t h e a i r p o r t s h u tt l e c o n n e c t i o n s t o A i x - e n - P r o v e n c e , o n e o f Fr a n c e ’ s r i c h e s t c i t i e s . A i x h a s a g r e a t m a r k e t o f i t s o w n , a s w e l l a s a b e a u t i fu l O l d T o w n a n d c o u n t l e s s i n c r e d i b l e r e s t a u r a n t o p t i o n s , b u t the best way to truly experience this region is to hire a car. Every Provencal village has a market day, once a week, and few of them can be accessed by bus, making a car a worthwhile addition to the trip’s budget. There are just so many villages to explore that a visitor should devote as much time as possible to this region, after all, it is not something to be experienced in a rush.

My favourite place The markets – a great reason for waking up early! Observing merchants setting up their stalls, chatting with fellow traders while sipping on their coffee, and noticing the market activity flow as the day went along was absolutely priceless – only made better by actually savouring so many of the delicacies available.

Every market has its charm. Some are bigger and more crowded and some are rather quaint and quiet.

Whichever market you choose, it’s a great opportunity for people watching and better understanding French culture through a habit that has changed little over the centuries.

LAVEN DER A ND GR PLATE A IN F IE AU DE L D S IN VALEN SOLE

H OP IN TH E A S OU VE NI R S S B A UX VI LL A GE OF LE

Highlights

The lavender fields were spectacular; I could nearly picture myself in the middle of a 19th-century oil canvas painting. The Luberon villages are some of the most beautiful in the region, so I spent a lot of my time visiting that area. Les Baux de Provence is listed as a World Heritage Site for its medieval walls and castles.

Perched on top of a rocky outcrop, it is often listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Gordes, St-Rémy, Roussillon and Bonnieux are equally beautiful, and a lot more authentic. The city of Arles hosts one of the best markets in the region. It was once the home of Vincent van Gogh, and its Roman ruins are just another addition to make the town very special.

Lowlights

Transportation within the villages is nearly non-existent, which makes hiring a car, or joining a bus tour, a necessity. It’s also worth mentioning that this is the single most expensive part of France, and nearly everything in Aix-en-Provence is at least 15 per cent higher in cost than in the rest of the country.

Souvenirs Provence is one of those regions where travellers may find themselves shopping quite a bit. As visiting the markets is one of the best experiences and the products available such as cheese, herbs, paintings and crafts are truly unique, it is easy to find nearly everything one might be looking for, making them the single best place for shopping for everything, including souvenirs.

Where to stay

Most of the accommodation available is located in Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, but several smaller villages have charming boutique hotel options as well. All budgets can be catered for easily. I was very happy with my choice, the Hôtel Des Augustins, a four-star property located in the heart of town.

For those looking to splurge, there are a few five-star hotels in the centre, such as the beautiful La Maison D’Aix and many more outside of town, in a more peaceful setting.

T H E “V AN GOG H B R ID ARLE GE” AT S

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Postcards from

Y-FI

EYE SPY Ever get the feeling that someone’s watching you? This collection of spy gadgets allows any budding 007s to turn the tables and see who’s doing the snooping, writes Heloise Vyas EXTERMINATING BUGS If, for whatever reason, your paranoia is getting the best of you, then the safest course of action is probably to invest in a Professional Multi-Bug Detector. The device scans the immediate area and is able to detect radio frequencies, GPS signals, laser tapping, telephone tapping and all hidden cameras, giving you protection against every possible piece of surveillance equipment there is. Available at gadgetsandgear.com from RO190.

TRACKING JUNIOR Hexoskin's new junior Smart Shirt is definitely going to help parents keep tabs on their youngsters.

The impressive shirt tracks the wearer's heart rate, sleep duration, activity level and a whole host of other biometrics in real time through the accompanying app.

The tiny Bluetooth device inside the shirt connects to the sensors, keeping parents in the loop about their child’s activity and whereabouts at any given time. The full kit is available at hexoskin.ae from RO175.66.

COVERT CONVERSATIONS This fully functioning pen may look innocent enough, but it actually doubles as a voice recorder able to store up to 512 hours of audio. There are no flashing lights or beeps on the Digital Pen Voice Recorder, making it completely covert and you can plug it straight into any PC to transfer files. If you ever get tired of undercover espionage, the device can also be used as a standard flash drive and an MP3 player with 8GB of internal memory.

Available at gadgetsandgear.com from RO30.8.

EDITOR’S PICK

WHAT DID YOU SAY?

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INTERESTED IN EAVESDROPPING ON CONVERSATIONS BETWEEN YOUR PARENTS? THE MOTOKATA BIONIC EAR-HEARING AMPLIFIER CAN PICK UP CONVERSATIONS DISTINCTLY FROM UP TO SIX METRES AWAY AND AMPLIFY THE SOUND TO AROUND 50 DECIBELS OR MORE. THIS COOL SOUND SPY GADGET WEIGHS JUST 28 GRAMS, MAKING IT VERY EASY TO CARRY AROUND OR ATTACH TO YOUR COLLAR, BELT OR POCKETS. USING SOUND MAGNIFICATION TECHNOLOGY, THE HEARING AMPLIFIER IS ABLE TO PICK UP ALL SORTS OF SOUNDS FROM THE SURROUNDING AREAS AND IS DISCRETE ENOUGH TO GO UNNOTICED. AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM FROM RO15.3.

JULY JUL 0903- -1509/ /ISSUE ISSUE378327

I AM A ROCK If you’re worried that people are trespassing on your property without your knowledge, then the Outdoor Rock Hidden Camera is for you. Its rough, worn appearance emulates a natural rock perfectly and with a rechargeable battery that lasts for a year in standby mode, there’s no worry of it running out anytime soon. The camera is motionactivated, records in high resolution colour video and is equally adept at recording in the low light of dawn and dusk with a nine-metre night vision range. Available at gadgetsandgear.com from RO250.

NEW

App of the Week

MINI GLOBAL GPS TRACKER

If you’re finding it difficult to keep track of your friends’ movements, this Mini Global GPS Tracker will make the job easier for you. Just stick it about the person or among their belongings and the tracker will keep updating you as to their location. It also consists of additional features such as SMS, GPRS, internet applications, an SOS function and global coverage with quad-band frequency. It’s compact, affordable, easy to use and helpful for all age groups all the way from troublesome teens to suspicious spouses. Grab yours at amazon.co.uk from RO10.13.

SPY CAMS

Appealing to everyone’s inner voyeur, the Spy Cams app gives you a live feed from security cameras positioned all around the world. It’s not known how they do it, but you can link up to cameras everywhere from hotel resorts to streets scenes in several different countries. You never know, you might just stumble across some interesting sights. Free on Android and iOS.

FRESH VIDEO Posing as an average air freshener, this brilliantly concealed spy camera can slot right into your living room, bedroom, workplace or wherever you choose, allowing you to record any and all suspicious activity inconspicuously. The Air Freshener Camera Recorder is very easy to use, recording 720p HD video with the press of a single button, and comes with a built in charger and a 2GB micro SD card. Get yours at eyetek.co.uk from RO72.

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Photo by Shaquel al Balushi

Speed of Light: As the sun goes down over Muttrah, the Corniche comes alive with shoppers navigating the labyrinthine alleyways of the souq and the roads are transformed into a fluid blur of light and motion as traffic snakes its way along the waterfront.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK