Y Magazine #418, April 28, 2016 by SABCO Press, Publishing and Advertising

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IS IT TIME TO PULL THE PLUG ON VIOLENT VIDEO GAMES?

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Fast forward

he popularity of video gaming has reached a crescendo, with millions of children, teenagers and even adults around the world becoming addicted to the pastime. And it seems that Oman is not immune to this worrying trend. However, the biggest concern is the addiction to violent video games, with many youths locking themselves away for hours on end to play extremely anti-social games. In our cover story this week, we look at the issues revolving around violent gaming, sitting down with psychologists, gaming addicts and their parents and uncover some alarming behaviour that includes aggression, lack of empathy and the inability to understand the difference between reality and fantasy. Studies suggest that increased levels of addiction and aggression are found in gamers who spend between two to five hours a day playing violent games. On the flip side, experts also say that non-violent games can help children develop hand-eye coordination, imagination and memory. While the authorities in Oman have banned the sale of a number of violent games, they are still getting through via the black market – exposing our youth to all manner of traumatic, violent images and role-playing in which killing is the order of the day. The quicker this is stamped out, the better. But parents should also take responsibility and ban these black-market, violent games in their homes.

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contents

APR 28 - MAY 04 2016

Your Oman

Features 20 Game Over What Video Gaming Is Doing To Our Children

This Week

24 Stars of the Track Launch Of Our New Selfie Competition

08 Voice Of Oman Jane Jaffer

16 #FYI World’s Busiest Airports

26 Makeover Oman’s Male Make-up Artist

10 News Husband Of Stabbed Nurse Held By Police

17 Movies The Huntsman: Winter’s War

12 News Oman’s Biggest Indoor Amusement Park

18 This Week Mix It Up

06 Coffee With Y Andrew Hurst

13 Faces of Oman

14 Gallery BSM Oscars Night 15 Hyundai – Driven To Success Mohammed Al Wahaibi

Cars and Adventures

Food and Drink 28 Food Feature Bush Tucker 30 Taste Test Zeitoun

38 Destination Kbaikab Graveyard Part I 40 Indoors Goalball

Health and Beauty

42 Postcard From Windsor, UK

32 Fashion In The Pale

44 Y-Fi Water World

46 Car Of The Week 34 Beauty Lincoln Navigator Reserve Make-up Cleaning 35 Health Fighting Cancer

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Overseeing the opening of the A’soud Global School in Seeb is no mean feat but staying calm and on track is key to success, headmaster Andrew Hurst tells Felicity Glover

ndrew Hurst is sporting a wide smile as he walks into the conference room next to his temporary office in Seeb. The British national, who is originally from Bolton in the UK, is juggling a massive schedule related to Muscat’s newest British international school, A’soud Global School (AGS), which is currently being built in Seeb and will open for the new academic year on September 4. It has to be said, however, that there’s an air of unmistakable calmness about Andrew as he sits down and takes a sip of his coffee. He appears to be taking it all in his stride. It’s for good reason as it’s not the first time Andrw has taken on such a daunting project. In fact, he first set up a school from scratch when he and his family moved to Madrid, Spain, in 2009. “It gave me that first foray into setting up a project from scratch in the centre of Madrid,” Andrew says, adding they were in Spain for six-and-a-half-years. “It is similar to [what we are doing in Muscat], in that we were dealing with a wide range of families, affluent families, some expat children, but mainly Spanish. It is also similar to this project as we were establishing a school from the beginning – selling a dream of a new school with no track record. “It went on to become a very highly regarded English

independent school.” The veteran educator has followed in his father’s footsteps as a teacher – his dad taught French and Russian – but he has also inherited his mother’s love of travel thanks to her career as a travel agent with Thomas Cook. “That got my interest in teaching and travel,” he says. “There are very few places where I’ve not been to. This gave me a real passion for wanting to travel but I also saw the quality of family time that we had growing up. As I got older, I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps because I saw how rewarding that was for him. “I progressed very quickly and was a head teacher by the time I was 30. I specialised in PE. I had a background in sport, sailing, canoeing, outdoor activities and a mix of theoretical and sports science. I also have a passion for languages – I speak Spanish and have already done an interview in Spanish with a parent for AGS. I am also hoping to learn Arabic.” Andrew and his wife, Caroline, who is the registrar at AGS, arrived in Muscat in January this year. Their children, James, 13, and Victoria, 10, are currently at boarding school in the UK. And his first impressions of Muscat? “Firstly, it was how clean Muscat is but also the general topography – the balance between ocean and the mountains,” he says. “We haven’t had a chance to explore the wider area, such as the beautiful wadis, but from day one, the people have been very friendly. Either expats or Omanis, they have been super-friendly and very welcoming. That is important when you move to a new country, and that feels right.”

Andrew says the construction of AGS is on track and the school will be opening for the 2016-2017 school year. “It has been very frantic since we arrived. With the team we have at the moment, we are doing a multitude of roles. I am setting up the curriculum and flying back to the UK to recruit Britishtrained staff, as well as the whole HR, marketing the school, and lots of meetings with parents and organisations. “It’s very, very busy and more so now – every day, three to four hours of my time is spent meeting parents. I am very clear on this: I want to meet the families personally and want them to be confident. “The school, I would say, is going to be fabulous. It is huge, with very large classrooms that are 90 square metres in size or bigger in some cases, and it has a very bright, light airy feel with wide corridors. “AGS is set up for a capacity for 1,500 to 1,700 students so we have a lot of space. To begin with, it will be great for the children who join in September as there will be 200 to 250 children aged from three to 11. “I have shown a number of parents the plans for the school, the curriculum and uniform and they all say there is nothing like this here in Muscat. “I would like to consider us a little bit like a boutique hotel, offering that personal touch, which I believe, isn’t there in a lot of schools. “September 4 is the opening date. I wouldn’t say I am nervous because we will be ready.” Have you got a unique story to tell or do you know someone who has? Contact us to have coffee with Y and be featured in Y Magazine. Email: editor@y-oman.com

THE VOICE OF OMAN JANE JAFFER ON WHY A SIMPLE LIFE JACKET AND TOW ROPE COULD SAVE LIVES IN OMAN

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

or those of us living in Oman, torrential rain and the inevitable flooding it can cause is of huge concern. A major countrywide flood in 1977 was the first recorded natural disaster in Oman’s modern history. This flood killed 105 people and injured more than 5,000 others. The Salalah Floods in 2003, with unprecedented torrential rains during the monsoon season, lasted for two weeks and killed 30 people. Tropical Cyclone Gonu, which struck Oman in 2007, was the most disastrous tropical cyclone ever recorded in the history of Oman. Heavy thunderstorms, strong winds, high seas and flooding left 49 people dead. On June 4, 2010, Tropical Cyclone Phet swept across from Qalhat to the Muscat and Batinah region. Six people were reported dead. Last year, seven people reportedly died and a further 50 people were injured during heavy rain in north Oman over three days in October. More recently, eight lost their lives in the storms and flash floods that hit Oman on March 11 this year. Two people were killed when their vehicle was swept away by floods in Wadi Kabeel, in Quriyat province, on April 8. These statistics make for depressing reading. As we move towards the summer months with the threat of storms, cyclones and more flash flooding, I would like to call on major car manufacturers and dealers to provide life jackets and tow ropes for all their vehicles. Simple measures such as these could save lives. We need to take more precautions and teach people not to take risks and attempt to cross wadis during the rains. Every single airline seat is equipped with a life jacket in the unlikely event of the plane landing on water. Airlines spend a small fortune in an attempt to ensure the safety of their passengers. Isn’t it time that the car industry followed suit?

NEXT WEEK: ALI AL RAHMA

APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

“Is social media responsible for destroying quality time with our friends and family?” ‪‪MALINA GHOSH ‬‬‪ ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪

We can’t deny that social media is connecting people and linking the outer world. Ironically, our inner world is slowly getting farther away. But we can’t put the blame only on social media. We’ve got to be balanced. It would be better to bring social media around the dining table, discuss stories with family members and laugh together.

‪‪ANTONY VETTIYAZHICKAL JOSEPH ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‪‬‪

Social media is yet another innovative gift to mankind in the direction of communication. As long as we put it to good use for our betterment, it can only help us. But if we become slaves to it by getting addicted and using it to our detriment, it can destroy quality time with our friends and families. Instead, let us use it responsibly as it is us who should be blamed for any adverse impact it has.

MARIANNA PEREIRA ‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

Even though social media may claim to connect us to our family and friends, in reality I believe it does just the opposite. It’s only when we take a break from social media that we realise that calling or talking without social media interruptions is a great way to bond with our nearest and dearest. When we are constantly distracted by social media, our brains are shut off to real-life issues and we become less creative and more superficial.

VIBHA SIMHA ‬ ‬‪‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‬‪ ‬‪ ‬‬‬‪

I agree that social media is destroying quality time with friends and families. My family and I have gone one step ahead with a mobile data pack so automatically it serves the purpose of a

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phone once we are outside just to make calls or messages while we enjoy quality time. We turn off the Wi-Fi in the evening so that, in my case, I can spend time with my husband, talk to my parents in India, take a walk outdoors, do my daily chores, pursue my hobbies and just about anything else, peacefully. It is a question of whether or not you let social media destroy you.

GAUTAM GHOSH DASTIDAR ‬ ‪ ‬‬‪ ‬

The sky is the limit providing we learn to fly! It’s not social media but its overuse that can paralyse our social lives. Friends and especially families should always take priority. However, don’t blame social media; blame the way we use it. In a country where expats are the main workforce, we badly need social media to ensure families and friends who are out of sight are not out of mind. Nevertheless, they should be families and friends only!

RIO OCAMPO-VECINO

No, social media is not responsible. We are responsible. Us; people. We get so consumed by it that we never realise how much time has passed and how many precious moments have gone. We become addicted to it. We cannot control social media but we definitely can control ourselves.

MADAN GYAWALI ‬Yes it is. With excessive social media, human

beings are being enslaved by it. They are losing out on closeness with their families and friends. Virtual friends can never take their places. Therefore, social media has played a vital role in ruining one’s quality time with family members and colleagues.

SYEDA FATIMA WARSI SAIKIA ‬When we cross the limits of social media usage it

starts damaging our very roots, such as family and friends. We become so connected and involved in the virtual world that we often forget to cherish the real moments around us.

AYESHA SIDDIQA

Yes, humans need real human interaction to really feel loved. If you really care about someone, do something out of the norm to let them know. Go out of your way to visit them and have a proper

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conversation. Remember special dates in their life and give them a call on that day just to say you were thinking about them. Write them a handwritten note and mail it to them. You’ll be surprised at how much more fulfilling your life will be as a result.

ROSHINI NAIR

Yes, social media is responsible for destroying family time. With family members around us, we spend all our time chatting with someone who is sitting miles away. I believe that technology is quite useful but on a limited scale. The

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moment we feel it’s destroying our family time, we must make an effort to interact with our friends instead of being engrossed in our smartphones and laptops. Otherwise, in a controlled way, use of technology is very beneficial.

NISHANT BHATNAGAR

Little by little, the internet and mobile technology seems to be subtly destroying the meaningfulness of the interactions we have with our family and friends. Instead of spending time with someone, we just call, text or instant

New Debate: “Would you allow your child to play violent video games?”

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message them. It may seem simpler but we ultimately end up seeing our relatives face-to-face a lot less. There’s no doubt social media enables us to organise our real-world relationships, and even meet new people outside the digital realm — both of which can be great, life-enhancing things. But ultimately, it’s harmful for close relatives and friends.

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PRACHI SHARMA

Yes, to a certain extent social media is destroying quality time with our families and friends. When you go outside you can see everyone occupied on their mobiles without even looking to see who’s next to them. We should all be aware that time spent with family and loved ones will always give you pleasure and precious feelings that social media can’t ever give you.

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APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

YOUR

OMAN

f you’re an expat and want to visit Dubai or Abu Dhabi anytime soon, you may need to plan ahead. As from tomorrow (Friday, April 29), some nationalities, including Indian and Filipinos, travelling from Oman across the border will need to apply for an online visa prior to arrival. The rule will affect more than 1.5 million expatriate residents in the Sultanate. It applies to arrivals by air and road. Some professions had previously been exempt from needing an e-visa but this has now been scrapped. Now all GCC residents or permit holders will have to get an e-visa. Confirming the news to local Muscat media this week, Captain Khalil Ibrahim, of the General Directorate of Residency and

NEWS

EXPATS NEED

UAE E-VISA

Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, warned that people will be turned away from the border if they don’t have an e-visa. “This we have clearly communicated to all the immigration officials at the borders and at the airports,” he added. However, there are some exceptions. Expatriates from around 46 countries, including the United Kingdom, European countries and Australia, will have the choice of getting a visa on arrival or in advance. No price details were given but on the Emirates airline website, the cost of a tourist 30-day one entry visa for the UAE was given as US$90 (RO34), while a short visa valid for four days is US$55 (RO21). Around 322,000 visitors from Oman visited Dubai from January to March this year.

DEAD NURSE’S HUSBAND REMAINS IN CUSTODY

he husband of a pregnant nurse found dead in their apartment in Salalah remains in police custody as investigations continue. Linson Thomas, reportedly found Chikku Robert, 27, who was five months pregnant, lying in a pool of blood with stab wounds on her body after she failed to turn up for work at the Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals last Wednesday (April 20) for night duty. Her ears were also said to have been slashed in an apparent attempt to steal her earrings, according to reports in Indian media, raising speculation it could have been a botched robbery. Robert, who comes from a small village in Kerala, had met her husband at the hospital, where he is employed as a customer care official. The couple had only married in October. Her devastated family in India had been eagerly looking forward to welcoming the birth of her first child. Her mother, Sabi, is said to have collapsed on hearing the news of her daughter’s death. A Pakistani national, who had also been detained by police in relation to the death, has reportedly been released. At the time of going to press on Tuesday (April 26), Thomas was still in police custody as arrangements were being made to

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repatriate his wife’s body. “Robert’s body may be flown to India on Tuesday [April 26],” an Indian consular official in Salalah told local media. “However, we are not sure whether it will happen or not as some paperwork has to be completed from the hospital side where she was working.” Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals said legal assistance had been provided for Thomas.

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

TO THE LEFT

What’s this about then? Left versus right is an age-old argument, with many lefthanded people complaining that everything is built for righthanded people, from scissors to door handles and even cameras. So what’s the problem? It seems that a woman, Jess Adams, in the UK has decided that the remote for her new TV from Sainsbury’s is only designed for left-handed people. How did she come to that conclusion? Because Jess, 25, claims she can only change channels with the remote when it’s in her left hand. Seriously? We afraid so, as many people on social media also asked. Why’s that? Well, in this 21st-century world of ours, Jess felt the need to share her “revelation” with the public and the replies were hilarious. Like what? Some suggested it was a new child-proof function, while others advised her to try turning the channel by holding the remote backwards. That’s funny! Yes it is. But at least Jess has also seen the humour in her error of judgment and has been a good sport about it all. Don’t say: “Put your left foot in.” Do say: “Being ambidextrous is a handy skill.” 012

APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

he dream of a mega indoor amusement park in Oman is nearing completion, with the launch next month of the country’s largest indoor family entertainment centre (FEC) at Oman Avenues Mall in Bawshar. Along with 250 unique rides and arcade games, the space will feature Oman’s first indoor rollercoaster, which should be operational by the middle of this year. The indoor amusement park, Funtazmo, will be a part of the FEC, and will be split into two sections. Funtazmo Kids, for children up to three years of age, will be situated at the first floor, while for older kids, Funtazmo will take centre stage on the second floor of the mall. But Ben Watson, the general manager of Oman

Avenues Mall, says Funtazmo will target all ages, from three to 60 years. “Our aim is quite simple: we want to provide an exclusive experience to the young and old, equally, in a safe and exciting environment,” Mr Watson said. The FEC will be spread across 5,000 square metres and will also feature a 5D cinema and mega-party hall. According to Prabjhot Singh, the assistant manager of retail relations and tenant coordination at Oman Avenues Mall, the FEC can accommodate more than 10,000 visitors a day. “We are happy to announce the launch of Funtazmo,” said Amad Aldin Razzaq Ahmed Talib, the chairman of Abu Taleb Investments, the local partner behind Funtazmo. “Oman was missing a family entertainment centre that caters to both the young and young at heart, and which is why we conceptualised the place keeping the entire family in mind.” He added: “As the largest mall in the country, we are glad to have found the right partner in Oman Avenues Mall.” All the fun begins when Funtazmo opens next Thursday (May 5).

COOL NEW SCHOOL

new international school in Seeb offering the British curriculum is on track to open in September, it was confirmed this week. A’soud Global School is in the final stages of construction in preparation to welcome the first pupils in all year groups up to Year 6 when the new academic year starts. “We are filled with great excitement about AGS Muscat as we await the first children in the school,” said Andrew Hurst, the founding headmaster, this week. AGS will be based on the British independent school model of Pre-Prep (three to seven years old); Prep (seven to 13 years old) and Senior (13 to 18 years old).

“It’s something that appeals to parents because it is clear how the school’s curriculum will adapt to different stages of a pupil’s development,” said Mr Hurst. “Our teachers are all qualified to British standards and also understand the international context of the school. We want the same high expectations of a British independent school but we also want to celebrate Omani culture, Arabic language and Islamic faith in order to educate and prepare our young people for an international life.” As well as spacious classrooms, the school will have impressive sports facilities and a swimming pool, along with large indoor play areas, specialist music rooms, a dance and aerobics studio, advanced computer centre and a cafeteria.

aces of

Oman

Welcome to Yâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weekly photo series that profiles the diverse characters who call the Sultanate home Name: Mohammed Anwer Age: 31 From: Pakistan Occupation: A mechanic for 15 years

Photo: Shaquel al Balushi

APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 417

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YOUR

GALLERY

OSCAR NIGHT

OMAN

IT WAS A NIGHT OF GLAMOUR WHEN BRITISH SCHOOL MUSCAT HELD AN AWARDS EVENING TO CELEBRATE THE WORK OF GCSE, AS AND A2 LEVEL STUDENTS FROM THE FILM AND MEDIA DEPARTMENT

COMPETITION

Do you want to appear in Y’s Hyundai Driven to Success feature and test drive a Genesis?

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All you have to do is tell us in 50 words or less why you you like this popular feature. Send your entries to editor@y-oman.com by Monday, May 16, and the lucky winner chosen by Team Y will feature in the magazine. Good luck! * You must have a valid driver’s licence to enter.

APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

DRIVEN TO

SUCCESS

At the age of 19, after completing his studies, Mohammed al Wahaibi founded events company 1Pulse with five friends. A year ago, Mohammed, 23, the CEO of the company, and the team launched The Lounge, a creative hub for the youth of Oman to collaborate in different fields from photography and designers to filmmakers and tech programmers. Here, Mohammed speaks about his journey so far Q: What drives you to success? I think it’s keeping the end in sight and seeing the bigger picture in my mind, looking at the future and what I am trying to achieve. Seeing small changes on a daily basis also drives me. My real motivation is change. Money, cool cars and fame come with it but that is not what’s important. I get that “tingling” feeling when I see a process of change. I like to have positive change around me. I just want to enrich people’s lives and have an influence on other people’s lives.

Q: Who or what has been your inspiration? I try not to have just one person who is my inspiration. I try to take a bit of inspiration from everyone that I meet. My team always pushes me forward, and interacting with young entrepreneurs inspires me. Great pioneers such as Steve Jobs, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg are natural influences that any businessman would find inspiring. The support of your family, especially your father and mother, is very important, too. Even in The Lounge, when I see the enthusiasm in the faces of the people there, I find it very inspiring. Q: What is your biggest career success to date? The biggest leap would have to be starting out with the team and to keep going. There have been a lot of challenges over the three years but refusing to stop and continually driving forward is what makes me very proud of us. On a daily basis, there are challenges, from keeping within regulations to creating and sustaining something new, and a new culture of working. We try to do things differently from the traditional way of the past 20 or 30 years in Oman. Q: What are your career goals? We want to create extraordinary things; services, companies or products that will help people do great things. This is my dream for Oman and beyond.

THE GENESIS IS FUN TO DRIVE AND TAKES THE ROUGH ROADS AS WELL AS THE CORNERS VERY WELL. I LOVED ITS STABILITY AND THE GRIP ON THE ROAD AT ALL SPEEDS. THE ENGINE HAS ADEQUATE POWER, AND IT REALLY RESPONDS TO EVERY TOUCH OF THE THROTTLE Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time? A year ago, I wouldn’t have guessed that I would be as far as I am right now. I really want to continue doing what I love and have a passion for. As long as I’m doing that in 10 or 20 years’ time, then I will be happy. Q: What do you like about the Genesis, the premium series of Hyundai Motor Company? The Genesis is fun to drive and takes the rough roads as well as the corners very well. I loved its stability and the grip on the road at all speeds. The engine has adequate power, and it really responds to every touch of the throttle. I also like its road presence. I think it is a very nice package overall and really pampers the occupants. APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

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busiest airports in the world

④

Chicago, US Airport code: ORD Passengers: 76.9 million Growth: +9.8% Kong ⑧ Hong Airport code: HKG Passengers: 68.2 million

US Airport code: ATL ① Atlanta, Passengers: 101.4 million Growth: +5.5%

Growth: +8.2%

⑤

Tokyo, Japan Airport code: HND Passengers: 75.3 million Growth: +3.4%

China Airport code: PEK ② Beijing, Passengers: 89.9 million

France Airport code: CDG ⑨ Paris, Passengers: 65.7 million

Growth from 2015: +4.4%

Growth: +3.1%

UK Airport code: LHR ⑥ London, Passengers: 74.98 million Growth: +2.2%

UAE Airport code: DXB ③ Dubai, Passengers: 78 million

Worth, US Airport code: DFW ⑩ Dallas/Fort Passengers: 64 million

Growth: +10.7%

Growth: +0.9%

Angeles, US ⑦ Los Airport code: LAX Passengers: 74.93 million Growth: +6.1%

Source: Airports Council International

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* Based on 2015 preliminary figures from nearly 1150 airports, including both domestic and international arrivals and departures

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 Huntsman: Winter’s War When you’ve got a cast that includes Oscar-winner Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth and Emily Blunt, you should be on to a winner. Sadly, not even these big names can magic up a hit. Going up against The Jungle Book, which is proving to be the king of the box office, has not helped. As a sequel to the 2012 fairy tale fantasy Snow White and the Huntsman, it should have done well. The first film grossed US$396 million (RO152m) but without the presence of Kristen Stewart this time round, the gloss seems to have dulled. Theron is back, however, and thoroughly enjoying playing the evil queen, Ravenna, who betrays her sister, Freya, the ice queen (Blunt) after she very kindly brought her back to life. Freya retreats to lick her wounds and

raise an army of huntsmen, as you do. As she is gifted with the ability to freeze her enemies in ice, this may not have been strictly necessary but it’s just as well she did, as Ravenna is soon up to her old wicked ways and intent on taking over or destroying the world, whichever happens first. Hemsworth (in full brooding mood) is the one who can stop her, along with his love (Jessica Chastain) and the other huntsmen, with the ice queen along for the ride. It’s visually arresting and fun in places but outweighed by silliness. One critic has decried it as an angrier version of Frozen but after this, perhaps it would be best to Let It Go and forget a third helping. Review by Kate Ginn

P RE VI EW

DHAY FE ABU DHABI This charming comedy indie film is winning rave reviews across the border in the UAE. It tells the story of a young Emirati who moves from Fujairah after graduating from college to try his luck in the big city of Abu Dhabi, where he hopes to find a job and a wife. Family troubles and a road trip, during which he meets a friend who offers to help, provide the laughs. In Arabic.

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

Precious Cargo

rare and valuable gems to get back into her boss’s good books. Lots of shooting and car chases follow. One for the DVD collection.

Bruce Willis always seems to be trying to recapture the magic of his early days but always falls short. This is no exception. This time, he plays the baddie as Eddie, a murderous crime boss, who is out for revenge after a multi-million dollar heist goes wrong. The thief responsible for the failure, Karen (Claire Forlani) recruits an ex-lover (Mark-Paul Gosselaar) to steal some

Cabin Fever An almost exact remake of a 2002 film of the same name (the same script is used), the title tells you that this is going to be one of those creepy, horror movies about a group of friends (five this time) who are terrorised in their rented cabin in the woods. The pals fall foul of some homicidal locals after accidentally killing a man contaminated with a flesh-eating bug, which then spreads via the water supply to one of the members of the group. When will college graduates ever learn not to rent isolated cabins in woods near unfriendly locals?

Bollywatch KALI

In this Indian Malayalamlanguage romantic thriller, we follow Siddharth (Dulquer Salmaan) and Anjali (Sai Pallavi) as they meet and fall in love during their college days, and then get married (against the wishes of their parents). Siddharth’s anger management issues (the film’s name is vernacular for a person who has “anger at the tip of their nose”) boil over when he loses his cool despite his best efforts to behave. What happens next seriously tests the couple’s relationship.

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

Brought to you by

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION What is the name of Bruce Willis' character in Precious Cargo? LAST WEEK'S WINNER Alok Kapoor

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THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE APR

Learn the Lingo April 25 - June 01 Keen on learning Arabic? Sign up for a six-week course to study the language with the Center for International Learning. Experienced Omani instructors will take classes for a maximum of eight students in a group, and as an added bonus, you can also have them at your office or home for classes. Classes are held from 6pm-7.30pm on Mondays and Wednesdays. For more information, email register@ciloman.org

Apr

WEEK

WHAT TO DO.

APR

MAY

WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

Shake off your stress this weekend with DJ and hip-hop sensation Teri Miko. Catch the touring DJ, live at Rumba Lattina restaurant and bar at The Cave complex, Muscat, as she performs her hit mixes from popular artists such as Pitbull, Chris Brown and Adele, among others. Doors open at 9pm, and tickets are RO15. Entry is free for ladies.

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THIS

LET’S READ Visit the Let’s Read Charity Book Shop at the Al Qurum Complex this week to show your support for the launch of the book, My Home Town, featuring 53 young writers from Oman. The book was compiled as part of the annual children’s writing competition held under Dar Al Atta’s Let’s Read Programme. The launch will be held from 10am, and customers can get a 50 per cent discount on books on the day.

Gallery

Movies

Clearance Frenzy CARNATIC

FUSION

Apr

If you haven’t already heard, Muscat Duty Free is hosting a clearance sale of up to 65 per cent for all goods, including exclusive discounts on Lacoste clothing. It’s the final day so get yourself down to the Masirah Hall in the Golden Tulip Seeb Hotel in Seeb, Muscat. Doors open at 10am.

Indulge in a night of fusion music with Carnatic rockers Agam. Catch the Bangalore-based band perform hits such as Boat Song, Swans of Saraswati and Dhanashree Thillana at the City Amphitheatre in Qurum, Muscat. Gates open at 5pm. Ticket prices from RO3 up to RO25 for VVIP. For details, email symphoneve2016@isdoman.com, or call 9920 2557/9533 4408. Search for Orbit Events Management on Facebook.

W E H AV E

Looking forward to seeing you at our new address at Al Kabani Building, next to Bareeq Al Shatti, Al Qurum. Watches | Jewellery | Pens

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erald is a 16-year-old grade 11 commerce student at one of the reputed Indian schools in Oman. He’s also a selfconfessed “gamer”. His routine is quite simple: school starts at 7.15am and wraps up at 1.55pm. He makes his way home, has lunch and then heads to his room with a bag of chips and soda, where he settles on his favourite beanbag. Waiting for him in his room is a PlayStation 3, loaded with the latest first-person tactical shooting video game, Call of Duty – Modern Warfare 3. But what happens next is alarming. For the next eight hours, Gerald engages online with four other gamers from around the world, gruesomely murdering opponents with a range of tactical weapons. He proudly claims he is the leader of his team – a feat he achieved in 2015 when he singlehandedly slaughtered more than 50 players in an online multiplayer event. It is evident Gerald is proud of his gaming skills. But as he talks to me, his eyes stay firmly glued to the screen in front of him. The quick movement of his thumbs on the analogue controller is enough evidence that he has years of PlayStation experience under his belt. “A normal life isn’t

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something my son lives,” says Gerald’s mother, Blessy, who says Gerald is on his Playstation every day. “There’s very little a working mother can do to restrict a child who is addicted to his PlayStation.” Talking to Gerald’s mother, it’s clear that her son’s erratic lifestyle has taken a toll on his studies. She says Gerald was always among the best in his class, scoring above 80 per cent in his early years of school. But she blames his gaming addiction on his current lack of interest in school. “We’re far beyond the point of correcting our son,” she admits. Gerald received his first PlayStation at the age of 10, when his mother took up a full-time position as a teacher in Oman. It was her idea to keep Gerald occupied during his time alone. “The biggest mistake a parent can make is to set up a personal entertainment hub for his or her son or daughter,” she says, before advising parents to engage with their children from their early years. It is clear that Gerald’s gaming

GAMES BANNED IN OMAN GRAND THEFT AUTO V Publisher: Rockstar Games

GOD OF WAR SERIES

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

FALLOUT: NEW VEGAS Publisher: Bethesda Softworks, Bandai Namco Entertainment

WATCH DOGS Publisher: Ubisoft

DEAD ISLAND & DEAD ISLAND: RIPTIDE Publisher: Deep Silver

HEAVY RAIN

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

SPEC OPS: THE LINE Publisher: 2k Games

GODFATHER II

Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

MAX PAYNE 3 Publisher: Rockstar Games

SAINTS ROW IV Publisher: Deep Silver

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addiction is affecting him; while his studies are suffering, he is now becoming aggressive and violent when asked to step away from his gaming console. But Gerald is just one teenager among a sea of youngsters who are addicted to gaming. According to a recent study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), increased levels of addiction are found in gamers who spend between two to five hours every day on gaming. The report last year states that more than 90 per cent of children in the US play video games. However, that figure rises to 97 per cent when narrowing it down to adolescents aged between 12 and 17. Children younger than eight who play video games every day spend, on average, 69 minutes on handheld console games, 57 minutes on computer games and 45 minutes on mobile games and tablets daily. Studies linking gaming and violence are conducted frequently, but the reports have been known to contradict each other. But APA’s report points out a consistent relation between violent video games and raised aggression levels.

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increased levels of aggression and lack of empathy – at least at home,” she says. “Normalising aggression is something game developers have successfully accomplished over the years.” She adds that the sheer originality of graphics – using three-dimensional modelling and laser construction techniques – in games produced today is worrying. “Kids today are exposed to almost realistic levels of blood and gore,” she says. She says that a child like Gerald who spends eight or more hours gaming every day raises the risk of him having a problem distinguishing between reality and virtual reality. “While gaming, it is normal for a child to detach himself or herself from the surroundings,” Natalia says. “In such a scenario, the child may have a problem switching back to a normal life because the virtual reality has taken the place of reality in the child’s life. “A child can also show reduced amounts of empathy and increased amounts of violence; but does it mean he or she will commit a criminal act? Probably not.” While no criminal incidents have been “directly” linked to individuals addicted to violent video games, there has been speculation about the aggression they cause. The 1997 Bethel Regional High School shooting in Alaska, in the US, is a good example. Student Evan Ramsey took a gun to school and killed two people and wounded two others. Worryingly, the report also shows a While his act wasn’t linked directly to his addiction to decrease in pro-social behaviours, violent video games, an investigation revealed that he was empathy and sensitivity to aggression. hooked on the first-person survival horror shooting game Over a 15-year period, incidents such Doom. as the Columbine massacre (1999), the Anders Behring Breivik, the 37-year-old Norwegian Colorado theatre shootings (2012), Sandy who orchestrated a horrifying attack that killed 77 and Hook massacre (2012) and Washington injured 319 people in the government quarter of Navy Yard massacre (2013) have been Regjeringskvartalet in Oslo and on the island of Utøya in attributed to violent video game usage. 2011, was known to have used video games such as World Also to be taken into consideration is of Warcraft and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 for the fact that more than 85 per cent of training. He also confessed to using a holographic display as video games children and youth play a part of his training to help him target his victims. contain some form of violence. So it is To date, no incidents of aggression or violence linked to only fair to raise concerns over the gaming have been reported in the GCC. However, a report effects that violent video games have on from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, suggested that a certain individuals, especially children genre of video game (unnamed) has been and adolescents. instrumental in promoting violence, terrorism A child can also “There are two sides to the and theft in the city. story if we start discussing show reduced At the time, the head of the Ministry of about the effects of gaming,” Social Affairs’ Sakina campaign, Abdel amounts of empathy says Natalia Gomez, a Moneim al Mashawah, was quoted as saying: psychologist at Al Harub and increased “Video games pose a threat to young people as Medical Centre in Muscat. have stripped them of their religion, amounts of violence; they “Playing games can help nationalism, families and emotions.” in enhancing hand-eye but does it mean he In view of these reports, games such as coordination, imagination and Grand Theft Auto and Godfather II, an open or she will commit memory. However, if the child world action-adventure video game series, have is exposed to more than two a criminal act? been banned for sale and reproduction across hours of gaming on a daily the Sultanate and various parts of the GCC, Probably not basis, it could lead to negative including the UAE. reactions.” A total of 22 games are banned in Oman. According to Natalia, children under However, following a quick investigation, we found the age of 13 are very impressionthat these games were easily available to purchase on able and the genres of games they the black and grey markets, depending on the title and type play contribute to the way their of console. brain develops. It is surprising how easy it is to purchase a game banned “Expose a child to an in the Sultanate. The prices of these games can vary from aggressive game at a young age RO25 to RO30, many of which come via Dubai. and he or she will “When I wanted to purchase Grand Theft Auto V, almost certainly show I headed straight to a game shop in Ruwi,” says Aabid, a young engineer. “They charged me an additional RO2 because the game wasn’t easily available to them,” he adds. A video game shopkeeper in Muscat says: “It is the sheer amount of attraction these kids have to violent games that force us import these banned titles. “The market for illegally imported CDs is at an all-time high and if the demand for these games remain, we will have to keep importing them,” he adds. Natalia says that

the increase in addiction for electronics and gaming consoles is prevalent around the Sultanate. She calls this condition “Arousal Addiction”, which is when an individual is hooked on a particular device (such as gaming consoles or smartphones), resulting in the person spending more time on the device than interacting with their peers. Speaking about its effects on children, she says “Arousal Addiction” also has the power to lead the child towards sociopathic behaviour, which could lead to issues such as abandonment and psychological instability. In an ideal scenario, she says a child must split his or her day into eight-hour portions, when they can: ● Spend eight hours for sleep ● Spend eight hours for school or work ● Spend eight hours for extra-curricular activities, which includes time that must be spent on outdoor sports, peers and family. Combatting video game addiction starts at home, Natalia says. “Parents have to start monitoring what their children are exposed to,” the psychologist says. “They [parents] could also sit down with their children after sessions of gaming and show interest in what they did. “Later, the parent could explain what the child saw and maybe give an adult’s opinion on the matter. “For example, Grand Theft Auto contains obscenities such as indecent commentary and nudity, and the parent could probably explain to the child why that is wrong.” This will give the child an opportunity to differentiate between virtual reality and reality, she says. And the interaction between parent and child will help to instill a level of empathy and attachment in the child. Tessy Roy, a mathematics teacher and psychology student in Oman, says the amount of time a child spends playing games and browsing is directly proportional to the time a parent spends away from the child. “Parents of this generation have nobody to blame but themselves,” she says. “Working parents spend close to 10 hours of their day at work and they subsequently spend very less time with their family.” Tessy believes that this is the very reason why children are so reliant on gadgets and consoles. “This void left in the lives of the children is something that is replaced with video games and the online world,” she says. “Children of this generation are different in so many ways. The attention spans of students today are much lower than that of students from the previous years.” She adds that virtual media has successfully provided them with a visual medium for the transfer of information – something teachers of today cannot replicate due to a limitation in curriculums. Thus, students

find it harder to concentrate on their lessons. Mohammed agrees with Tessy. His brother Wadah, a 27-year-old engineering student, is addicted to gaming. “Wadah should have graduated from college three years back,” Mohammed says. “However, he even forgot about his semester exam because of a game.” Wadah had to repeat the year because of his mistake. Mohammed says that all of Wadah’s friends have settled down with families and jobs; and that he is the only member of his group yet to graduate from college. This year marks Wadah’s eighth year in college, while for the past 10 years, Mohammed says he has never seen his brother spend time away from the television or computer. “My brother doesn’t talk to anyone anymore; he has no friends; no job; no nothing,” Mohammed says. “We’re planning on sending him to a psychiatric hospital to get him help.”

HEALTH p Health conditions caused by excessive gaming: ✘ Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ✘ Migraines ✘ Spondylitis ✘ Nintendonitis (Tendinosis) ✘ PlayStation Thumb (Palmar hidradenitis) ✘ Seizures ✘ Death: A 28-year-old man collapsed after playing Starcraft for an astonishing 72 hours at an internet cafe in the city of Taegu, South Korea, in 2007. According to authorities, the man had not slept, had eaten very little, and had taken hardly any bathroom breaks.

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S R A T S an m O e h th t nt i e s w e p r u p g e Teamin ssociation, w se who ho le A t i b r o o f m n o titio Aut e p m lane o t c s e a f fi l e e as n th i e f i l e lik

e’re expecting things to get a little heated at the Oman Automobile Association (OAA) this month – and we are not talking about the action on the racetrack! Y Magazine has teamed up with the OAA to launch a new competition: Stars of the Track. This time it’s not about lap times, racing lines or your drifting skills; rather, it’s who can pull off something deemed impossible – snapping the perfect selfie! Up for grabs are cash prizes for the best selfies. It’s quite simple to enter. Just take your smartphone and click a selfie. There’s only one rule: the selfie must be taken in the grounds of Muscat Speedway, the go-kart track at Oman Automobile Association in Seeb. Once inside, we suggest you get creative. Where you decide to take the picture is up to you. Fancy a picture with the chequered flag or with a helmet and a racing jacket? Go ahead and impress us! Just make sure that you ask staff at the track before venturing anywhere. The OAA’s Muscat Speedway Track is quite a setting for a selfie, so you should be spoilt for choice. However, we suggest you stay well within the limits of safety to avoid injuring yourself. After all, the whole idea of a racetrack is to get racers off the streets to the confines of a controlled environment. But we’re so keen to see how creative you can get that we’ll allow participants to upload multiple selfies individually or as part of a group. Once you’ve taken the selfie, you just have to upload it to our Facebook page /ytabloid), tag us using @Ymagazine on Instagram /ymagazine) or tweet us

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K C A R T

your picture using the handle @Ytabloid. Also tag us using the hashtag: #OAAStarsoftheTrack on all media platforms. The latter is important for us to keep track of your selfies. As an an incentive, we'll also be giving away four tickets for a spin around the Muscat Speedway go-kart track for the best selfie submitted each of the three weeks the competiton is running. The last date for submitting and tagging us with your selfie is May 19. A prize-giving ceremony will be held on May 26. Three winners will be chosen based on both quantity, as well as creativity. So donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t restrict yourself to a few pictures; go ahead and let your imagination run wild. Cash prizes of RO100, RO75 and RO50 will be given to the top three winners chosen by the judges. The Muscat Speedway go-karting track is open from 6pm-midnight on Monday and Tuesday, from 6pm-10pm on Thursdays and from 4pm- midnight from Friday to Sunday and Wednesday. To participate in a race, you will have to be over the age of eight and at least 135cm in height, and a registration fee of RO1 will be charged for the ID. A session of karting costs RO5 for children and RO7 for adults in the 270cc Dino go-kart. For further enquiries, contact the office at 2451 0239 or 9659 0300. So what are you waiting for? Head to the OAA, snap a picture and get creative on and off the track.

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Made

Following on from his father, Bashir Abud Aqueb is finding success in Oman as a make-up artist

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ith a few deft strokes of a make-up brush, a model’s face is transformed to fit the sophisticated look wanted for the shoot in Oman. The make-up artist behind this just happens to be a man. But as far as Bashir Abud Aqueb is concerned, it’s just another job and no big deal. Being a man and a professional make-up artist is not unusual for Bashir, who grew up in Iraq watching his father, who did hair and make-up, at work. Now based in Qurum in Muscat, Bashir never has any trouble finding work in his field, whether it’s for fashion shoots, theatrics, television work or for cinema. One day, he could be doing the make-up of a stunning model and the next, transforming a young actor into an old man. Or he could be involved in creating a theatrically dramatic look, such as with the model featured on the right, with green face paint splashed with colour to create an almost sci-fi appearance. Keen to “follow in his father’s footsteps”, Bashir, 30, studied make-up at the department of cinema at an art and beauty college in Baghdad. “My family and friends were very supportive of me,” he says. “The fact that my father was in the same field encouraged me and I got drawn into it. “After my father died I wanted to continue his legacy.” He enjoys the “challenge” of his work and the variety, which has taken him from Doha to work in the glamorous world of TV at Al

Jazeera and to fashion shoots in the middle of a desert. A job can take from as little as 10 minutes to hours, depending on the demands of the client or artist. Most of his working tools – such as brushes – can be bought in Oman but failing that, Bashir orders online. As for whether or not being a man in a predominantly woman’s world is a hindrance, Bashir believes it is, in fact, the reverse. “It works to my benefit, especially in the GCC where female artists are sometimes restricted to where they can go, certain locations such as the desert, or the antisocial hours are difficult for them,” he says. “I don’t have any restrictions. I can go anywhere. So being male works for me. I’ve never had any problems. Everyone is very professional and there has not been an issue doing the make-up of female models.” As for any future ambitions, Bashir is not interested in awards, fame or money. “I want to be like my father,” he says modestly. “I want to take his name forward and to be recognised as being like him.” APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

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FOOD AND DRINK

NATURE’S LARDER

Wild ingredients such as oysters with native finger limes and carrot foam are all part of an Aussie chef’s repertoire.

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Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

OUTBACK SPIRIT Chef Clayton Donovan uses natural ingredients found in his own Aussie backyard to create culinary masterpieces

hile crocodiles, snakes and kangaroos may be perceived as unapproachable wild beasts, Australian chef Clayton Donovan envisions them well done and garnished in herbs and homemade ranch sauce, using ingredients picked from the bushland. For the outback forager, the bush is very much his backyard. Clayton spares nothing. If it is edible, it will be eaten. Today, Clayton remains one of only a handful of chefs in Australia who preserves the true “outback spirit” in his culinary creations. He is currently the host of his own cooking show, Wild Kitchen, which is aired on Australia’s ABC TV, and formerly had a restaurant, The Jaaning Tree in Nambucca Heads, New South Wales. Clayton now focuses on pop-up restaurants around Australia. He was recently in Oman to recreate his culinary masterpieces for more than 90 guests at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel, in association with the Australian Business Group Oman. During his short trip, Clayton says he stumbled upon bushes and shrubs that reminded him of those he knows from home. “Improvising is all about throwing to the table whatever is available,” the chef says. “And in native Australian cuisine, we use ingredients such as herbs, bush tomatoes, lemon myrtle, anise, native pepper and cucumber among various others to get flavour.” He’s currently working with native mint cucumber to smoke various meats such as lamb and beef to achieve various intensities in flavour. The chef also incorporates native pepper – a purple-coloured bell ground to powder – for seasoning and known to possess health benefits. For desserts, Clayton suggests the use of caramelised sweet bush tomatoes as a substitute for caramel that could, for example, accompany chocolate puddings. He also recommends a white chocolate substitute of dried seaweed, berries and oil. His barbecued kangaroo makes use of lemon myrtle and ground pepper for seasoning to achieve an “Aussie campfire flavour”.

Macadamia Nut and Cheese Beignets with Native Reductions ● For the beignets § 150g sifted plain flour § 4g baking powder § 65g of partly ground (rough ground) macadamia nuts § 3 egg yolks § 2g dill, finely chopped § 2g parsley, finely chopped § 25g finely grated Parmesan cheese § 10g LSA (linseed, sunflower, almond ground mix) – to decorate plate § 5g semolina § 25g of grated Parmesan § A little water to bind the mix (100ml) § 25g butter § 1g roasted ground fennel

● Davidson plum syrup § 200ml fresh Davidson plum juice § 1tsp Sesame oil § 200ml sugar syrup § 2g fresh ginger § ¾ tsp xanthe gum

Method: § Heat the water, remove from heat and add the butter to melt it. § Mix all the ingredients together until combined. § Make small balls of mix (dessert spoon size) and fry until lightly browned in hot oil, then finish off in the oven for 4-5 mins at 150 degrees. § The following need to be prepared ahead of plating up the beignets.

● Apple foam § 450ml apple juice § 1tbs lecithin § Linseed, sunflower and almond mix to decorate the plate.

Method: § Infuse the ginger into the sugar syrup with the sesame oil – in a pan – then bring to the boil. § Strain the sugar syrup into the Davidson plum juice. Add ¾ tsp of xanthe gum; stir, then strain the mixture again. § Serve the beignets with roasted seasonal baby veg, topped with Parmesan cheese. Dress the plate with the three reductions.

● Carrot and Fennel reduction § 200ml fresh carrot juice § ½g fennel seeds § 15g castor sugar § Put all the ingredients in a pan, bring to the boil and simmer until thickened, then strain. ● Balsamic and wattleseed reduction § 200ml balsamic vinegar § 1g wattleseed § 50g caster sugar Method: § Put all the ingredients except the wattleseed into a pan and boil till they simmer and thicken. § Remove from heat and add the wattleseed.

+968 24210451 / 92892824

As per the CompetitionTime! Chinese Mamasan invites everyone to participate & win Calendar RO 20 Gift Voucher. Send us the answer to this question to info@yoman.com Which year by 02nd May 2016 is 2016?

for winning the Trattoria competition last week!

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FOOD AND DRINK

Tr e n d

FUSION OF FLAVOURS

ZEITOUN OFFERS AN ECLECTIC MENU INSPIRED BY OMAN AND THE MEDITERRANEAN, WITH TOUCHES OF MOROCCAN AND TUNISIAN INFLUENCES, WRITES FELICITY GLOVER

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REVIEWS

would be a difficult choice, especially as there were Omani, ZEITOUN OMANI & Mediterranean, Moroccan MEDITERRANEAN and Tunisian influences – and CAFÉ, RESTAURANT probably more from around the & FOOD SHOP region. Al Rawda Boulevard, In the end, we plumped for Mawaleh (behind the two starters from the tapas Holiday Inn) menu: hummus and a chicken Tel: 2418 5628 with what I think was preserved Opening Hours: lemon and cinnamon. For Saturday to Thursday, drinks, we kept it simple, with 12pm – 11pm still water for Cia and a sparkling Friday, 1pm – 11pm water for me. Dinner and drinks for The waiter quickly produced a two: RO31.52 small basket of warm flatbread, Verdict : a rustic bottle of olive oil and a 8 / 10 Service hot sauce, followed quickly by 8 / 10 Food 8 / 10 Ambience our drinks. The hummus was Attentive service and a deliciously silky with a hint of diverse, tasty menu tahini coming through as a back Y Magazine reviews note and it paired perfectly with anonymously and pays for the flatbread. But the zingy, its meals slightly salty chicken was the star of the show. The tender and juicy bite-sized morsels were bathed in a lemony gravy that was flecked with fresh green parsley and dotted with thin slices of red, yellow and green peppers. It was a sublime dish, with the salty tang of the preserved lemon complementing the sweet earthiness of the cinnamon. Cia loved the chicken and mopped up the sauce with the bread. In her words: “It was tender and tasty”. For mains, Cia ordered the farfalle with chicken, mushroom, pesto and cream, while I went for the waiter’s recommendation of prawn kerkenese. Our waiter quickly took our entrée plates away but thoughtfully left the hummus in case we wanted it with our mains, which also arrived quickly. At a glance, I knew I would struggle with the portion size. Three jumbo prawns dominated the rectangular plate, which also boasted rice, a mélange of vegetables and what appeared to be a tomato and onion salsa tossed in a little olive oil and parsley. The flame-grilled prawns were perfectly cooked with a hint of lemon in the background and went well with the tomato and onion salsa. The rice had a slight curry taste, which could explain “kerkenese” and the vegetables were also treated with respect. Cia’s farfalle was creamy and packed with tender chicken and mushrooms, and dotted with cherry tomatoes. She said she couldn’t really taste the pesto in the sauce but still gave it her usual thumbs up. Of course, we flew the white flag in surrender halfway through our meals and couldn’t finish them. But we both agreed: what we’d sampled had been delicious. Suffice to say, we were too full for dessert so paid the bill and headed downstairs again, where we found a small store selling an interesting array of produce, such as harissa paste, jars of couscous, fig or mulberry jams and a variety of olives. Another visit to Zeitoun is definitely on the cards – but next time, we will definitely stay longer and explore more.

Info Box

Midket r Ma

t’s a Sunday night and I’ve dragged my daughter, Cia, away from her homework for what I was hoping would be a quick restaurant review. But dining out should never be a rushed affair, especially when you are going to the likes of Zeitoun, which opened in January just behind the Holiday Inn hotel in Seeb. It’s an impressive dining space that is well deserving of a long, lingering meal with friends and family. Entering the restaurant on the ground floor, we were greeted by a friendly waitress who directed us upstairs, saying the downstairs area, dominated by a large blue stained-glass window, was for families with young children. There was even a sign at the start of the beautifully crafted tiled stairs saying no child under the age of six could venture to the floor above. Emerging from the stairwell, we entered another stunning dining space that looked to be inspired by the classic Moroccan riad, complete with mezzanine level overlooking the room below. With bright blue shutters on

New Restaurant

the windows, elaborately designed Middle Eastern-inspired screens in the same colour and a richly coloured carpet on the floor, it was welcoming and spacious. We headed into the next dining space, where we could see waiters gathered around a large stone wood-fired pizza oven. We caught their eye and were given a choice of tables. Because it was relatively early – just past 7pm – the restaurant was quiet, but with the usual late dining hours in Oman, I’d expect it to be buzzing a little later in the evening. The “riad” theme continued in this space, with two fountains that led you towards the terrace. Another large area, the wood-framed doors, windows and floors gave the room warmth. We chose a table next to one of the fountains – my mistake as it was a little too noisy for comfortable conversation. With hindsight, however, we should have chosen the terrace to take advantage of the fastfading “cooler” weather. The waiter quickly produced the menus, which had been downloaded onto Samsung tablets – a great 21st-century touch. Scrolling through the menu, which had been separated into drinks, salads and soups, pizzas, pastas, grills, desserts and tapas, I knew it

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

HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

Beauty

GREY MATTERS

Muted colour palettes – think pale greys and blues – are easy on the eye and bang on trend for men this summer, such as this casually elegant outfit from Next.

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FASHION

k o o L e h

, reet look t s igh t the h e th to ge o t end ps you h g l i e h ver he h t Glo From y t i c Feli A pair of bleached grey

T t Ge

straight jeans, such as these from F&F, is a wardrobe staple, easily adapting to a range of styles and colours. From RO8.3

Stay cool in this refreshing mint-coloured Oxford “Grindle Grandad” shirt from F&F. From RO6.6

This spotted short-sleeved shirt from H&M has hints of the 1950s and is perfect with a pair of straight-legged jeans. From RO7.9

This natural straw hat from Matalan is not only cool but will also protect you from the harsh rays of the sun. From RO3.3

Sunglasses are a must and there’s a huge range to choose from in Muscat’s malls, such as this pair from Next. From RO7.7

A pack of three-beaded bracelets from H&M is just the ticket to take that outfit from the ordinary to the extraordinary – and you can’t beat the price, either! From RO2.5

It’s nearly summer so that means men can get away with a pair of sandals such as these from Next. Just avoid the socks, fellas! From RO12.2

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BEAUTY

Health Fashion

Easy ways to clean your make-up items

hen it comes to beauty rituals, we take care of every detail but often forget about the cleanliness of our make-up utensils and accessories. Regardless of how much you spend on these, germs and bacteria can lurk in them and contaminate your skin. To help you, www.helpling.ae, offers some tips on how to keep these items clean.

Make-up brushes

Keeping brushes clean is important for hygiene but also to avoid mixing colours, which can lead to you having the wrong blush colour on your skin. Ideally, wash your brushes after each use. If it’s too time-consuming to wash them this frequently, every 15 days would be recommended. Make-up brushes are made up of two different types: ● Natural hair: mainly used with powders. To clean them, wash with a soap water solution at neutral pH and leave them to dry. Don’t leave them to dry in a vertical position as this can damage the wood that holds the brush together. You can also apply conditioner to the brush hair once a month to maintain softness. ● Synthetic fibres: mainly used for creamier products. To clean these brushes, wash with a non-alcoholic cleanser. There are plenty of instant cleaning liquids that do not require water, though. Simply apply the liquid onto the brush and rub it with a clean cloth.

Make-up Sponges

For make-up sponges, disposable ones are the most hygienic option. However, if you prefer another type of sponge, disinfect it with some dishwashing liquid and a spritz of rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, you can wash it with baby lotion. Let the sponge dry before storage or reuse.

Lipsticks (or creamy make-up like foundation)

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For those who apply lipstick with a brush, it’s important to keep it clean. To disinfect it, use a damp cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol and give it a light going over. No need to clean it very often, but once every four to five months should do the trick.

Make-up bag

The make-up bag is always left aside when cleaning but really shouldn’t be. In fact, it is constantly accumulating germs, contaminating your accessories all over again. To solve this, wash it every few months and keep it clean in between by cleaning out the inside with a face wipe.

Extra tip: Removal of make-up stains on clothes If you are a victim of a make-up stain, don’t worry. Soak your stained garment in a vinegar and water solution with a squeeze of lemon. Leave it for a couple of minutes then apply washing detergent onto the stain. Rub the affected area until the stain disappears and rinse the garment. For lipstick stains, instead of the method mentioned above, soak a cotton ball in ammonia and rub it onto the stain before washing the affected area in hot water.

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TAKING ON

CANCER Immunotherapies gain ground in the battle to beat the disease

t remains one of the biggest diseases for which the cure has yet to be found. But research is making progress in the fight to finally beat a disease that kills more than 1,000 people a year in Oman. In the United States, statistics from the USbased Cancer Research Institute show that, every year, about 14.1 million people in the US are diagnosed with cancer, of whom nearly 8.2 million face death. The number of cancer patients is also expected to double by 2030. Regional statistics are also alarming. According to a report from the Centre for Arab Genomic Studies, cancer is the third leading cause of death in the UAE after cardiovascular diseases and accidents, a pattern repeated in the Sultanate. The report says that data from the UAE Ministry of Health indicates that cancer accounts for approximately 500 deaths per year. The centre also reports that Arab women are more likely to suffer from breast cancer a decade earlier than their Western counterparts. Some of the common forms of the disease in the region include intestinal carcinoid tumours, cervical cancer, bowel cancer, gastric cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma, among others. Lung and prostate cancers are the most common among men, while breast and thyroid cancers were more common among females. Awareness, timely diagnosis and the right treatment are crucial in bringing mortality rates down, says Dr Urfan Ul Haq, a consultant in medical oncology at Abu Dhabi’s Burjeel Hospital, which is part of a group that also has a hospital in Muscat. “Traditional cancer treatments such as drugs, radiation and surgery have mainly been used to deal with cancer. However, immunotherapy has been gaining ground among doctors and patients as it works to activate the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, especially in metastatic cancers,” says Dr Haq. “The therapy involves various ways to stimulate the patient’s immune system against cancer as cancer cells already have some mechanisms to escape immune system detection.

“Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognise and target cancer cells. Clinical trials and research have shown that these treatments have great potential in targeting cancer more effectively compared to traditional approaches. They also come with fewer side effects, and offer benefits to patients suffering from a range of cancers. Immunotherapy has been an effective treatment for patients with certain types of cancer such as melanomas that have been resistant to chemotherapy and radiation treatment.” Immunotherapy is being used extensively in the treatment of cancers affecting the bladder, lungs, breasts, colorectal area, brain, kidneys, prostate, cervical area and skin. “There are variations in the type of immunotherapies used,” says Dr Haq. “As cancer cells have developed some mechanism to escape immune detection, so many of these immune treatments involve the use of removal of this protective mechanism and, as a result, the tumour is recognised by the immune system. “Some of the main types include monoclonal antibodies, which are special proteins created to identify antigens (markers) located on cancer cells. These antibodies find antigens and use immune cells to attack the cancerous cells. Other types such as therapeutic cancer vaccines are also used. Unlike preventive vaccines, these treat a disease that is present, specifically stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells.” Other areas of research include Adoptive T cell transfer, which boosts the body’s natural cancer-fighting ability in T cells (a type of white blood cell). The therapy involves removing immune system cells, growing or genetically altering them, and then re-introducing them into a cancer patient. Cytokines, along with checkpoint inhibitors and immune modulators, are being researched and investigated in various cancers. These therapies herald the promise of more effective approaches to prevent and treat cancer. “It brings the focus back on the body’s immune system, which has amazing properties to regenerate, heal and defend,” says Dr Haq. “Studies have shown that the results of immunotherapy are maybe more long-lasting in some cases so are called durable response. So immunotherapy is another arsenal in the fight against cancer in addition to other treatment. Using a combination of traditional approaches and/ or immunotherapy is increasingly being used in different types of advanced cancers.”

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

•

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

• • •

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

• •

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

•

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

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

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

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Postcards from

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Outdoors

Y- F i

GOING FOR GOLD

A group of visually impaired athletes gathered for a friendly Goalball tournament in Muscat recently, but they have their hearts set on Paraympic glory.

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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

Indoors

Destination

KBAIKAB GRAVEYARD PART I WITH CAR TROUBLE AND AN UNEASY FEELING, SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI ABANDONS A TRIP TO A GRAVEYARD BUT VOWS TO RETURN NEXT WEEK 038

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looking houses, but there’s not much to tempt you to stop and take a look round. Better to just keep motoring on. I suddenly began to feel quite heavy. I can’t explain fully the sensation that came upon me; just a feeling of heaviness. I started to feel scared and began to question whether I should go on or turn back. Then something even more alarming happened – my car overheated. It’s a Jeep Wrangler, used to tackling all sorts of challenging terrains, and I’ve never had a problem with it before. I stopped to allow it to cool down. As I waited, a local old man in a red van pulled over and asked if I needed any help before heading on his way. I set off but five minutes later, the oil sign on the car’s dashboard came on again, necessitating another stop. It felt that the omens were telling me not to go any further. I’d also covered only six or seven kilometres of the total 37km to the graveyard and I felt that it would be risking too much to drive on as I was alone and the Jeep could break down again. On the way back down, I noticed an unusual pile of stones placed on top of a large, rocky hill. It struck me that it would have meant quite a climb, carrying heavy stones, for someone to reach the summit. There was something quite spooky about the sight of it.

TRAVEL GUIDE

’m a big fan of camping, and many times on the way for weekend trips to beaches around Sur, I’ve spotted a brown sign with the words “Kbaikab Graveyard Y Al Jayla Village” on it. It interested me because the word “Kbaikab” is not one that I’ve heard or seen before; it’s not Arabic as far as I know, so I’m guessing it comes from a foreign tongue. Anyway, this week I finally decided to take the turn rather than just drive past it. My travel buddy, Imran, wasn’t able to make it so I was driving solo. I left early (around 6am) and reached the turn at about 7.30am, having had a good run and encountering little traffic on the road. Passing under a bridge, I followed the sign to the right and headed off, not knowing what to expect. I began to climb the mud and cement track winding its way up and up until I looked back and saw wonderful views stretching towards the sea, glimmering in the sun in the distance. You definitely need a 4x4 vehicle and one in good condition to undertake this destination as the incline can be taxing. No need to worry about getting lost though as there’s only way to go – and that’s up. On the way, you pass through the village of Al Jayla, which seems very modern with almost new

I took a few photos and continued back down. During another stop, I noticed two small stones on top of each other. They seemed to have been very deliberately placed on the ground like this. I’d never seen stones like these before; they looked like Kryptonite (the radioactive material from Superman’s fictional home planet of Krypton) only yellow. I picked the top one up and found it unusually heavy. By now, my nerves were a bit frayed and my imagination was running wild – possibly because I was going to a graveyard – so it may well have been my mind playing tricks on me. I put the stone back where I found it and left. On the way back down, I also passed some man-made rock structures – one of which looked as if you could go inside – with wooden constructions; another bearing an Omani flag. I was pleased to get back down to the main road. On the way home, the Jeep didn’t give me any trouble and when I later took it to a garage to be checked over, the mechanic said there was nothing wrong with the car. Despite the unorthodox trip, I’m determined to make it to Kbaikab Graveyard and will be heading back this weekend – only this time with a friend and possibly two cars. You can find out whether I make it in next week’s Y...

HOW TO GET THERE From Muscat, take Route 17 towards Sur. You’ll pass a brown road sign for the graveyard on the right. When you see a blue sign saying “Qur’ran 25km”, take the turn. Turn right under the bridge and follow the signs.

It’s a straight road climbing up.

GPS location of Kbaikab Graveyard: N22.52.31.4” E59.11.26.5”

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

THE ULTIMATE

GOAL T he action on court is fast and furious. A ball is whizzing around as players attempt to shoot or defend another attack at a pace that makes it hard for the eye to keep up. It’s end-to-end stuff and makes for an exciting spectator sport. What you might not be aware of immediately while watching is that every one of the players is visually impaired, in some cases with a total loss of vision. Welcome to Goalball. It’s growing in popularity here in Oman, with players from Muscat to Nizwa and Sohar out to prove that people with disabilities are just as capable of playing sport as able-bodied athletes.

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GOALBALL GIVES VISUALLY IMPAIRED ATHLETES A CHANCE TO SHOW OFF THEIR SPORTING PROWESS. KATE GINN CHECKS OUT THE ACTION

Exactly how good they are was on show during a friendly Goalball tournament last weekend in Muscat, the first of its kind ever held in the Sultanate. Around 36 blind athletes were taking part in six teams. Goalball, a team sport, was specifically designed for blind athletes and has a fascinating history. It was developed in 1946, originally as a way of rehabilitating visually impaired World War II veterans, before evolving into a competitive sport and being accepted into the 1980 Summer Paralympics in Arnhem (in the Netherlands), becoming the first Paralympic sport designed exclusively for disabled players. The game is played with a ball, which has

bells inside. Teams roll or throw the ball from one end to the other to try to “score” a goal. Players must use the sound of the bell to judge the position and movement of the ball. Coaches also shout out instructions and team members can communicate with each other when they don’t have the ball. In games, players who are partially sighted wear eyeshades to compete on an equal footing with blind players. On court at the Al Amal Club in Muscat, the sound of bells echo off the walls as the ball (which weights 1.25kg) is thrown with some force from one end to the other. Muscat “A” team is playing Sohar University and while it

Postcards from

might be a friendly, the desire to win is clear. There’s no holding back from the three players on each team as the sweat glistens on their foreheads. When a goal is scored and a cheer from the crowd rises up, the joy on their faces is proof of how much it means to them. “This is good experience for the players,” says Hussain al Haddad, a Goalball expert from Qatar who has been drafted in to help with the friendly Oman Goalball Open. “Our aim is to do this every month and during tournaments, they will be training with a coach. The next step is the national team. We hope some of the players here will go on to play for Oman.” Yes, Oman does have a national Goalball team, although you might not be aware of it. Our men’s national team (there isn’t a women’s team) was ranked 38th in the world in 2015. I’m told by the one of the players that Poland is one of the best teams in the world, along with Iraq and Turkey. Khamis al Sharji proudly says “yes” when asked if he plays for the Oman national team. The 26-year-old student at Sultan Qaboos University has been blind from birth and discovered Goalball around seven years ago. “I like it because it gives me power,” says Khamis, who uses Braille (a tactile reading and writing system for the visually impaired) to study his subjects of mass communication and public relations. “My big dream is to go to the Olympics and win a medal for Oman. “No one has ever treated me differently because I am blind. I get around in taxis or with my cane, and at weekends I’m with my family. “I also go horse riding and love it.” Watching the action unfold on court is Humaid al Harthy, the only qualified

Y- F i

C a r s INDOORS

Goalball coach in Oman, who travelled to China to train and become certified. “Both my brother and nephew are blind, which is why I got involved,” says Humaid, who, like everyone at the tournament, volunteers his time for free and has a full-time job as a public relations officer. “I enjoy teaching and helping out. You can see how happy it makes blind people to play the game.” Ishaq al Baushi, 22, is a case in point, and talks about how much he loves playing and being part of a team. “My aim was to play football for the national Oman football team but I started losing my sight from when I was 12. “This [Goalball] is something that I can do for my country.” The game in Oman needs more funding to help cultivate players good enough to play for the national team, says Dr Mansoor al Tauqi, president of the Oman Paralympic Committee. “There are some athletes here who would like to compete in the Olympic Games. Like anybody else, they have dreams and we want them to get their dreams. “But we cannot do it until we get some financial and community support.” The only aid comes from the Ministry of Sports Affairs. Next year, the Paralympic Committee plans to launch blind football. “With Goalball, it’s about giving the athletes a sense of space and much more control of their body and that, of course, will transform into real life; they will be much more controlled themselves, the way they move, their self-esteem and their stamina,” says al Tauqi. “The impact of their participation in sport is big. It improves the whole life of a disabled person.”

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CARS AND ADVENTURES CROWN JEWEL

Windsor Castle in the UK has an amazingly rich history, playing host to British kings and queens for more than 1,000 years.

TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO: 1. Visit Windsor Castle 2. Head over to Eton College 3. Take a boat tour of the Thames 4. Drop by the Crooked House of Windsor 5. Explore the miniature world of Legoland

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Destination

Outdoors

Y-Fi

Cars

POSTCARDS FROM

Felicity Glover recommends

WINDSOR, UK T

h ere’s no better time than the present to visit the historical town of Windsor, especially with the many celebrations planned over the next few months to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday. Of course, Windsor also lays claim as the Queen’s preferred weekend getaway - Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world that has provided a roof over the heads of the British royal family for more than 1,000 years. Just 32 kilometres from London, it’s easily accessible by both public transport and private car, and is well worth a visit, either as a day trip or weekend breaK. While the castle is the central focus of the town, it’s not all about royalty - well, almost! Experts recommend setting aside two to three hours to explore Windsor Castle, from its beautiful gardens to state apartments and other seasonal exhibitions.But even if you are only there for a day, this should still leave you with plenty of time to explore other places, such as the hallowed grounds of nearby Eton College or even entertain the kids at Legoland Windsor Resort. Then again, if you are into horseracing, Royal Windsor Racecourse and Royal Ascot are sure to get you on the edge of your seat on race day. You can take boat tours on the River Thames or explore one of the many wonderful parks in the town. But what is a must is the kooky Crooked House of Windsor, which was built in 1552. It’s impossible to miss on the High Street, especially with its distinctive black and white façade. If you happen to be in Windsor from this May 12 to May 15, then try to get a ticket to the Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration, which will be held in the private grounds of Windsor Castle. According to www.hmq90.co.uk, a “spectacular programme of music, song, dance and equestrian displays” will be held over four nights, culminating with the Queen attending the final evening’s performance. And with performers coming from as far afield as Oman, Chile, New Zealand, Canada and Australia, it promises to be magical celebration.

BOAT T OUR OF THE TH AME

E OF K E D H OU S T H E C R OO W IN D S OR

My favourite place This would have to be Windsor Castle. While a fire in November 1992 caused extensive damage to nine rooms, this has been fully repaired. That said, there is so much to explore, from a behind-the-scenes visit to the Great Kitchen, where you’ll learn about the culinary history of the royals, to visiting the lavish state apartments packed with priceless antiques and paintings. But make sure you also take time to walk around the beautiful gardens and parkland. Highlights As mentioned above, there’s a lot to see and do in Windsor. If you are visiting with children, then letting them loose in the magical, miniature world of Legoland, on the outskirts of the town, will be a definite highlight, as will the colourful changing of the guard in the grounds of the castle. If romance is your thing, then why not take a horse and carriage ride in Windsor Great Park? The friendly drivers are also a font of knowledge about the history of the area.

Lowlights The last time we visited Windsor, it was in the middle of winter. It was a dour, freezing day, especially when the sun went down. Like many popular tourist areas, the usual precautions also apply: take care of your belongings and don’t become a victim of pickpockets. Souvenirs The Royal Collection Trust Shop at Windsor Castle is a great place to pick up quality mementoes, from T-shirts to tea sets to children’s books and other royal-branded goods. There’s also many other souvenir shops dotted about town, most of them offering cheaper “keepsakes”.

LEGOL

AND

Where to stay There’s a range of accommodation options in Windsor, from local B&Bs to historic boutique hotels and five-star properties. Windsor is a walker’s paradise, so staying as close as possible to the centre of the action is highly recommended. APR 28 - MAY 04 / ISSUE 418

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Outdoors

D e s t i n at i o n

Y-FI

UNDER WATER

Oman offers some of the best adventures around, from beaches to mountains and beautiful wadis to splash in. Matthew Herbst checks out the latest waterproof tech available to accompany you TIME SINKER This Casio WSD-F1O Smart Outdoor watch is not only the toughest of its kind but is Casio’s very first Android Wear smartwatch. It’s water-resistant up to 50 metres as well as shock and dust-resistant. As tough as this timepiece is, it delivers all the features you would want from a smartwatch. Check it out at store.google.com from RO192.48.

COOL SOUNDS If you’re looking for a poolside companion, then get yourself a compact UE ROLL 360 waterproof wireless speaker by Logitech. Not only does it have a cool design but offers plenty of funky colour schemes to match your style. Then there’s the excellent sound quality as well. It's lightweight enough to carry around, and also sports excellent battery life. At amazon.com from RO26.94.

The BRAVEN BRV-Pro is not only waterproof but, thanks to its rugged structure, can also take a massive beating. Despite its toughness, it delivers great sound quality and battery life. If your wallet has a few rials to spare, you can add some cool optional accessories such as a battery pack and a solar panel that can both recharge the speaker. Pool party? The BRV-Pro allows users to connect multiple speakers for a much bigger experience. At amazon.com from RO56.59.

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EDITOR’S PICK 044

BRAZEN VIBES

MEET THE CORSAIR FLASH SURVIVOR STEALTH. MADE FROM AIRCRAFT-GRADE ANODISED ALUMINIUM, IT’S A USB STICK THAN CAN BE SUBMERGED UP TO 200 METRES UNDERWATER AND STILL PROTECT YOUR FILES. IT IS COMPATIBLE WITH PCS AND MACS, AND COMES WITH A FIVEYEAR WARRANTY. THE FLASH DRIVE IS AVAILABLE WITH UP TO 256GB OF STORAGE CAPACITY. AT AMAZON.COM FROM RO8.85. JULY APR 2803 -- MAY 09 / 04ISSUE / ISSUE 327 418

ON THE MOVE

There's no doubt that GoPro’s HERO4 BLACK is the ultimate action camera on the market. GoPro’s housing makes it waterproof up to an impressive 40 metres of depth. And while it sinks to the depths with you, its quality is not compromised due to the image sensor, which captures excellent 4K video. If you take your adventure filming seriously, then it has a wide array of mounts and accessories to choose from. For added mobility and sharing on the go, it comes with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. At amazon.com from RO165.15.

NEW SAMSUNG GALAXY S7 EDGE The Samsung Galaxy S7 edge is arguably the best smartphone available today. The edge is not only water-resistant but also offers many cool features such as a superb display, excellent camera, powerful processors, and support for Samsung’s payment service. Then there’s the must-have VR headset, which makes the S7 edge the ultimate phone to have these days no matter your age. At amazon.com from RO283.72.

App of the Week

WATERLOGGED – DRINK MORE WATER, DAILY WATER INTAKE TRACKER AND HYDRATION REMINDERS With summer slowly making its presence felt in Oman, it’s important to keep yourself hydrated. If you’re not drinking enough water then Waterlogged can help with charts and reminders to keep you topped up. It also works in conjunction with Apple Health and Fitbit. Free at iTunes.apple.com

ADVENTURE CHARGER This Goal Zero Venture 30 Recharger is a portable battery pack with a comfortable 7,800mAh capacity, which is good enough to fully charge a couple of your gadgets twice over. You can also add a solar panel to the Venture, making it completely independent from any power outlet and perfect for sunny treks. It comes with two USB ports and a micro USB connector. At amazon.com from RO33.87. APR JULY 28 - 03 MAY- 09 04 / ISSUE 327 418

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CARS AND ADVENTURES

Destination

Postcards from

Outdoors

Y- F i C A R S

Lincoln Navigator Reserve Specifications: Engine: 3.5-litre, V6 Horsepower: 380 Transmission: 6-speed SelectShift automatic Price: RO33,500

Smooth as silk and luxurious to boot, the Lincoln Navigator Reserve is a dream to drive, says Felicity Glover

think some of you are now aware that I’m quite a fan of the Lincoln brand. I’ve had a few test drives over the past year or so – the Lincoln MKX and the Navigator now twice – and each time, I’ve walked away impressed. And so it was with great anticipation that I turned up at the Lincoln showroom in Wattayah last Thursday to pick up the latest Navigator Reserve model. This time, I was lucky enough to have the car until Saturday morning, which meant putting it through its paces over the course of the weekend for my busy little family. From taking my daughter, Cia, to meet her friends for a spot of ice-skating in Qurum; transporting a gaggle of girls to a café in Shatti Al Qurum; the weekly grocery shop and other assorted errands; there was more than enough space to handle our demands. But I’m getting ahead of myself here. A quick overview of the Navigator Reserve with the very patient Bhavin Shingadia, the sales officer at Lincoln, saw us setting up the memory for the driver’s seat and steering wheel (a great touch!), as well as going through the various controls and entertainment system. First off, though, the Navigator is huge. Standing at nearly two metres high and about 5.6 metres long, it’s an impressive size. And with a width of 2.3 metres, the eight-seater SUV is as spacious as you’d expect inside. And getting in the Navigator is almost like having your own concierge

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– open the door and the power running boards come to life, giving you a handy step up into the cabin – all it needs is self-opening doors if you can’t afford your own chauffeur. At night, the Lincoln welcome mat also makes an appearance. Inside, the luxurious leather and wood trim is a handsome touch while the ambient lighting – you can choose from purple to blue, red and yellow, among others – was a hit with my daughter, who, for the record went for purple, which turned out to be a fitting choice considering the sad passing of Prince at the weekend. Ready to drive off, we turned the music on and joined the late afternoon traffic on Sultan Qaboos highway going towards Seeb. Thanks to the electric power-assisted steering, controlling the Navigator was effortless while the drive itself was as smooth as silk. The V6 3.5-litre engine is powerful, and staying within the speed limit at times was a struggle. But the dulcet tones of a female voice, which Cia nicknamed “Seary” as opposed to Siri, quickly came over the speakers to remind me that I was over the speed limit – and that was enough to ease my foot off the accelerator. Bizarrely, there was no gridlocked traffic on our drive back to Al Hail South and then on to the office for me. It was a non-stop drive that highlighted all that is good about the Navigator and its comfort levels, helped along by being in “comfort” mode and the fact that it also boasts a multilink independent rear suspension.

You can choose from three drive modes – comfort, sport or normal. I kept it comfort all the way as this was my favourite driving style, if you will. Heading home that evening from work was another story, and this time I was caught in a flurry of traffic along the slip road in Al Hail South. It’s always busy at this time but for once, I was OK with constantly stopping and starting – again, it was effortless and comfortable. But I was now beginning to expect that from the Navigator. The next day, we headed back down the highway to Qurum, where Cia was meeting some friends to go ice-skating. I wondered for a moment if the Navigator was too big for the parking spots at Qurum Fun Zone but with the help of the rear-view camera and reverse sensing system, this challenge turned out to be a breeze. Next up was taking the girls over to Cha Time in Shatti Al Qurum. They all piled in – we still had three seats available – and pumped up the volume on the sound system. With 14 speakers, it was loud – but also impressive. The eight-inch colour LCD screen is easy to use and also boasts dual USB ports, an SD card reader and an AUX jack to plug in your own devices. Even the girls were impressed. “This is a really nice car,” I heard one of them whisper in the back seat. And I have to say that I agree. The only problem? We were very sorry to hand the keys back to Bhavin on Saturday morning. But that’s life for you.

They say: “Bold and confident” We say: “Smooth and luxurious”

Electric power-assisted steering Lincoln logo welcome mat Remote start system Dual headrest DVDs Power-deployable running boards Rear view camera / reverse sensing system Memory settings for driver’s seat position SYNC with MyLincoln Touch Power moonroof Control Trac 4WD system

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