Y Magazine #470, May 11, 2017

Y’S GOT TALENT MEET OUR LATEST WINNERS NEW BEGINNINGS BABY TURTLES EMBARK ON THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

News: REGION’S FIRST ECO-MALL TO 10 OPEN IN MUSCAT

Free!

EVERY THURSDAY NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR

BEAUTY: Prime time make-up DESTINATION: Rusayl Wadi

YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

MAY 11 - 17 2017 / ISSUE 470 • WEEKLY

SUMMER’S HERE

PLUS!

TOP TIPS ON HOW TO BEAT THE HEAT

BRILLIANT BMW

34

COOL RUNNINGS

36

TRUE BLUE

40

COMPETITION

Who are the winners of this week’s Y’s Got Talent auditions at Caledonian College?

Turn to page 16 to find out!

THE BAROMETER GOING UP

INFLATION Year-on-year consumer inflation for April jumped to 1.79 per cent thanks to a rise in transport costs, housing and utilities. Are you feeling the pinch?

GOING DOWN

OIL PRODUCTION At least that’s what Saudi Arabia’s energy minister Khalid al Falih is warning, saying earlier this week that Opec-member countries could extend their sharp output cut to all of 2017. Stay tuned!

THIS WEEK… Team Y checked out a new restaurant in Al Hail (see next week’s Taste Test) and headed indoors to beat the heat and check out some fun activities on offer around Muscat.

EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

Fast forward W

ith summer just around the corner, the temperature is rising and we are spending less time outdoors, especially during the middle of the day.

That’s right: we’ve reached that point of the year when we head indoors to beat the heat and find new ways to entertain ourselves.

But here’s the question: aside from the cinema, fun zones, the mountains and evening visits to the beach, what else is there to do to escape the rising temperatures?

In our cover story this week, Team Y heads to the great indoors to explore the myriad of options available to keep us entertained and active during the hot summer months.

From the recently opened archery hub – Bows and Arrows at Muscat Grand Mall – to the country’s first trampoline centre, there’s a host of fun and new activities to keep us entertained this summer.

Elsewhere, we were fortunate to witness the beginning of a new journey for 71 newly hatched green turtles at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. It’s a lovely story and one that won’t see them return to the beach of their birth for another 15 to 20 years to repeat a new life cycle.

In Destination, we explore the delights of Rusayl Wadi, check out some fun gadgets in Y-Fi and put the impressive BMW 540i through its paces in First Drive.

Have a great week!

editor@y-oman.com

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi MANAGING EDITOR Felicity Glover SENIOR ONLINE EDITOR Nishad Padiyarath

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MAY 11 - 17 / ISSUE 470

03

contents MAY

Your Oman

-

17

2017

This Week

06 Coffee With Y

Ahmad al Harthy

16 Y’s Got Talent

The auditions continue

08 Voice Of Oman

Aysha Farooq 10 News

Region’s first eco-mall

to open in Muscat 11 Gallery

Muscat Singers’

summer concert

10

11

18 This Week

Celebrate Yoga Day 21 Movies

King Arthur: Legend of

the Sword

Features 22 Beat the heat

Summer fun in the great indoors 28 Turtle Diaries

Baby turtles begin a

journey of a lifetime

22

12 Gallery

Ladies’ volleyball tournament 13 News

Shocking road

statistics revealed

Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Rusayl Wadi

Health and Beauty

34 First Drive

BMW 540i 36 Postcard From

Svalbard, Norway 38 Y-Fi

Geek gadgets

21 40 Fashion

Forever blue 42 Beauty

Prime time make-up

Food and Drink 44 Food Feature

Cream of the crop 46 Taste Test

Healthy Kitchen

44

43 Health

Coping with arthritis

38 40

NEXT ISSUE...

FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / BEAUTY / DESTINATION / TRAVEL / FASHION / FIRST DRIVE

Ahmad

thy

al Har

Nishad Padiyarath talk s to the Omani racing driver Ahmad al Harth y, who has just won round 2 of the Blancpai n Endurance Cup, a global GT Series championship hmad al Harthy

A

was Oman’s national anthem wa s born with an extravagant the world. Racing in an Ast played for the first time. “It on was natural talent. At the age Ma rtin V12 Vantage, Ahmad a big mo me nt, ” he says, “But an has already of seven, he would go-kart made his mark in the from emotional one for me.” dawn to dusk, and even a littl competition. e Th e last time I met Ahmad at beyond.

“I am racing against some his office was seven years ago of As with all the greats, he cam . “If the best cars in the wo e you remember, this roo rld tha t not from another dimension m where includes Ferrar i, Lamborghini, , we are sitting now was halfnor the mystical east, but fro Bentley, McLaren and Merce m a empty with your pho des. tographs developing country withou That’s why it is so challengin t the all aro g und but .

No w, it’s all fille racing facilities readily availab to win against these top car le with trophies. That’s qui d s is to his overseas rivals. te always special,” he says. phenomenal, Ahmad,” I say With immense dedication, .

Hundreds of youngster he “But I do not have any spa came to understand his ow ce to country look up to Ah s in the n gift, keep this big trophy mad for I won from and at length to lavish it upo inspiration. n Mo nza ,” he rep lies with a smile. others. The 35-year-old, wh “It’s good to see youngsters o But he is cautious and guarde has already become a dom d tak ing this sport very seriously. inant about himself. “I jus t completed Al Faisal Al figure in motor racing, was Zubair, the al Habsi sitting 10 years of my rac ing career but brothers are in his office at Madinat Qa all very serious about boos, this is a long journe y. I know I when he caught up with Y thi s spo rt.

I am happy to mould hav e won many races but I stay Magazine for an interview. them,” he says. gro und ed and focused because Ahmad is shy and quietly “It’s really important to dre I have a race to go next we am spoken, but he soon turns a ek at – and then to chase those dre rare Silverstone [in the UK am s. ],” he says. I really believe encounter into an illuminatin it’s this dreaming g This is the real Ahmad experience. that makes me work so har opposite me, barrelling throug d,” he His balance and patience in h say s. the the conversation with fragments car are again evident as he It’s a refreshing change offers of sentences. Betwe en these insight into the attributes tha talking to Ahmad. Unlike ma t phr ases, Ahmad pauses a lot. ny make him arguably the gre celebrities, he answers questio atest He laughs a lot. It’s a nice, ns racer in the country. open with a reflective ope nne sou ss. nd tha t ma kes you think he But he quickly makes a There is a feeling that nothin is dropping his guard. Then g remarkable statement to me the is out of bounds. He has a . lau gh sharp dies away, and so does the “I’m really focusing now on sense of humour. how presumption.

I can get to the next level as When I ask, in the middle of a Ahmad proudly nurtured the racer. How can I get even mo a dis cussion about his retirement re art of racing at an early age competitive? How can I get of plans, he replies deadpan: “Yo even seven on the go-kar u t track. more consistent? How can think I am that old? Racers I get “Racing is not a hobby, it’s who better?” my are competing agains t me are in profession now,” says Ahma Ahmad is a man with the d who their forties,” he con clu qui des with a t his job as an aud itor in 2006. smile. heart of a champion. It wa s The Blancpain GT Series just last month he won round Endurance Cup in which Ah 2 of the Blancpain GT Ser mad Have you got a unique story to tell? Contact ies cur rently participates is treated us to have coffee with Y and be feat Endurance Cup in Italy, wh ured in Y ere Magazine. as the most competitive spo rt in Email: edit or@ y-oman.com

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We are proud of our pupil’s high academic standards, and encourage them to achieve their best in all aspects of the curriculum. Academics are supported by a strong expressive arts specialist programme which is further fostered by our extensive extracurricular ac�vi�es, encouraging pupils to expand and explore their talents.

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THE VOICE OF OMAN AYSHA FAROOQ ON THE REALITY OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO RETAIN REAL FRIENDSHIPS

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: According to media reports this week, a woman in Oman stabbed to death a man who was allegedly blackmailing her. In light of this, should citizens take the law into their own hands?

S

crolling down Instagram or Facebook we are continually flooded with the imageries of other people’s lives. One friend is eating tapas in Barcelona; the other is skydiving in Dubai while another just got engaged. People use social media to share the best and positive moments of their lives. They let others know that they are having fun, and highlight the highpoints of their lives.

In a golden age of social media, it is important to remember that what we see on our screens is only a designed fraction of the entire reality. People rarely post their daily struggles online. Their confusions and everyday battles are handled off-screen. Their lives seem easy or perfect from the outside. This could pressure us to make our lives seem easier too. It could sometimes make us feel like we are not living the best life that we should be. We suffer from the fear-of-missing-out syndrome.

“Is everyone’s life more enriching than mine?”, we may ask at the end of the day.

We have an inside view of our lives, including all the worries and difficult times but we have an outside view of others’ lives: a perfectly edited piece of the whole picture.

It would help our case greatly if we could put down the phone and grab a coffee with a friend instead of scrolling through their profile. Sitting on a sofa together and engaging in conversations we could both share a more wholesome and true dialogue about both the wonders and the sorrows of life.

NEXT WEEK: FELICITY GLOVER 08

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WAFAA EL ANANY

When we take the law into our own hands we are no better than the criminal that commits the crime. We are placing ourselves above the law by becoming judge, jury and executioner. If we cannot put our trust in our own laws there is no point in having them. Without laws, we are no longer a civil society and we will quickly degenerate into a wild situation.

MOHAMMAD OSAMA RAWAT

In no way should anyone be allowed to take the law into their own hands. Even the Quran and the Sunnnah of prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) does not allow us to indulge in any kind of killing. It is only the authorities like the ROP and the judiciary who are permitted to take appropriate action, in Islam. Deciding to punish or kill someone based on one’s own whims and fancies is a big social crime in all circumstances and in no way should one resort to it.

SRUTHI SANAL

I don’t think citizens should take the law into their own hands. But, having said that, I really feel the Oman Government should bring more awareness about this issue among people and also should have a specialised team in ROP to handle cases such as this one, which are a lot more common than people might think. The person being blackmailed should feel reassured that correct measures will be taken and that

WRITE TO US AND YOU COULD WIN

complaining to the ROP is the right thing to do and not to be considered as the last resort!

RONNEIL SALES VALIENTE

No person can claim to be above the law. Regardless of gender, nationality, religion, and social status, each person must not take the law into their own hands. Following laws is socially and morally important in preserving and respecting life and property. Laws are created to bring peace, order, and justice to our society. If you disobey or violate the law, you have to face the consequences depending on the severity of the crime or the offence that you did against others. Each person must be socially and morally responsible in obeying the laws. Let the legal authorities, such as lawyers and policemen fulfil their share of their duties and responsibilities.

SYED BOKHARI

I don’t think that the kinds of cases that involve killing someone should be taken on by us because it’s the Government and the authorities concerned who look after these issues. The ROP should help to take on these kinds of cases. Moreover, mobile teams must be ever-vigilant and not allow cases such as these to reoccur or else allow people to take the law into their own hands.

DR RAO BHASKARA SUDDAPALLI

No citizen should take the law into his or her own hands, as such adventurous acts, though momentary, would breed anarchy and lawlessness. It’s my duty as a law-abiding person that oblige me to adhere

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to the law of the land and to leave law enforcement to the authorities. Though I am aware the ROP is steadfast in acting on any complaint, barbaric acts interwoven with the modesty of a woman occur in my home country of India. Most such victims end up being ill-served by the lack of timely action by police officers and then go on to be tormented further, both by the police and in court. The Sultanate of Oman and the ROP do not give any scope for one taking the law of the land in to their own hands. A victim, ideally, needs to share his or her ordeal with some close family members or friends for guidance on how to deal with such issues.

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New Debate: What impact will the looming Value-Added Tax (VAT) have on the cost of living in Oman?

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

HARISH BALA

This should not even be debated. The laws and judicial system are in place for a reason. If everyone started delivering justice on their own it would just be utter chaos. Respect the system.

There is a reason we have authorities for this. Stay safe and live by the rules.

ALI SAIF AL RAHBI

Each person, either male or female, should not take the law into their own hands. Laws are created by man in order for a society to be peaceful and problem-free. The law gives protection to the victims and punishes those who are violating or disobeying it. It is a social and moral responsibility of a person to follow the law and to respect other people and properties. On the other hand, it is the duty and responsibility of policemen and other legal authorities to make sure violators are punished and no further injustices happen in our society.

USHA DEVI SUDDAPALLI

Though no sane person can veer around the idea of any one including a citizen here taking law in to own hands, we need to consider the state of mind of a person driven to act in such an extreme way.

CHIRANJEEV THAKUR AND HIS MUM WERE SPOTTED WITH THEIR FAVOURITE Y MAGAZINE IN MUSCAT

PEREIRA F SAVIO

When we take the law into our own hands, we become the jury, judge and executioner, thereby placing ourselves above the law. The very reason for having laws is lost and can subsequently result in the degeneration of our society.

ANIL KUMAR

Law in the hand can be taken in two ways: if someone abuses you or hits you and you reply on the spot, this is still understandable as you have to defend yourself. Second is when someone is blackmailing or torturing you for some time and you plan how to take revenge. The second one is completely unacceptable as this can be reported to the authorities. If we all start taking the law into our own hands, then there is no need for law. All matters must be reported so that proper action can be taken against the culprit. Hence, in my opinion no one should be allowed to take the law in their hands.

JOSEPHINE CHETTIAR

Every county has to abide to certain laws in order to give protection to the victims and will punish those who have done unlawful action. At any point of time, the law should not be taken into our own hands. If there isn’t be a law, nothing will stop people from doing things that they want; they will be free to commit crimes knowing that they could get away with it, even if it is bad and unlawful. If a society doesn’t have a system of law, our society would not be able to function effectively. Crimes, terrorism, rape, murder, robbery etc will become everyday occurrences. Therefore, law and order is of utmost importance to ensure that human rights are respected and that people do not take laws into their hand, and that justice is given to the victim and the one who is at fault be punished.

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Send it to: info@y-oman.com

MAY 11 - 17 / ISSUE 470

09

YOUR

OMAN

NEWS

MIDDLE EAST’S FIRST ECO-MALL TO OPEN IN OMAN

MUSCAT O MUNICIPALITY INTRODUCES E-SERVICES

man is set to become the first country in the Middle East to boast an environmentally friendly mall, with the announcement that the RO62 million Al Araimi Boulevard – an ecofriendly entertainment centre – will open its doors to the public in September next year.

When it is ready, the entertainment centre will be the largest of its kind in the Sultanate, and will be able to accommodate 250 shops, 10 modern cinema halls, 20 restaurants and provide parking space for 3,000 visitors.

The mall will also span an area of 147,000 square metres and will be located at Al Khoud, Muscat.

The area designated for entertainment, such as a cinema and food court, will alone cover 6,000 square metres.

Sheikh Raid Abdullah Ali al Araimi, the vicechairman of Al Raid Group, the mall’s developer, was quoted by local media as saying: “We will also have an outdoor area with beautiful landscape, which allows signature restaurants to open their outlets.”

The standout feature of the mall, however, will be the glass dome, which will be covered with solar panels. These panels will be calibrated to be transparent during daylight hours to let sunlight in, and still produce clean energy for functioning

R

esidents can now easily apply for a variety of services at Muscat Municipality, including building permits and rent contracts, via its new electronic services portal. The e-service is expected to ease work flow for employees as well as reduce the waiting time to process official requests.

Muscat Municipality announced this week that it had signed an agreement with Sanad Services Centres to aid in the provision of transactions and services through its offices.

Residents who want to make use of the e-facility can do so by heading to www.mm.gov.om. The portal also features paid-parking services.

“I have been using the mobile services in order to park my car at work,” said Syed, a resident of Ruwi.

“But thanks to this, I can simply pay online and then not worry about it any more,” he added.

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at night. The mall will also adopt waste recycling systems in its effort to become as green as possible.

The mall is being developed in cooperation with Design International and Kaosys. As much as 40 per cent of the work on the mega-mall is complete.

“Works go as scheduled, and we look forward to the future with all optimism for more new projects that contribute to the march of development in Oman,” al Araimi added.

NEW MUSCAT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TESTS SUCCESSFUL

T

he highly anticipated new Muscat International Airport has successfully passed a number of operational tests ahead of its offical opening at the end of this year, airport officials have revealed to local Arabic daily Al Watan.

In a recent “simulation of a travel test”, an unnamed official said the airport recorded very “positive results”, signalling that it would be ready for business in the fourth quarter of 2017.

“The companies engaged in the project have completed the largest percentage of the project packages and some were at an advanced stage of completion,” the official said.

On May 3, staff conducted readiness tests for the passenger terminal and technical systems, which proved to be highly successful, the official added.

Eng. Salim Bin Saad Al Harbi, the technical committee member for the management of airport projects, also reported that the main buildings for the operation of the airport – the terminal,

maintenance gates, aviation workshops, guard rooms and entrances and exits – were all complete. He added that basic amenities, such as the connection of electricity, water and sanitation services, were in the final stages.

According to the report, 96 per cent of the airport’s construction works have been completed, and more operational tests will be performed over the course of the coming weeks.

SWEET SOUNDS OF SUMMER

GALLERY

MUSIC FANS GATHERED AT THE BOSCH CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS AT THE AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL MUSCAT (TAISM) LAST WEEKEND FOR THE MUSCAT SINGERS’ ANNUAL SUMMER CONCERT. THE CHOIR WAS ACCOMPANIED BY MUSCAT BRASS AND THE PDO SCHOOL CHOIR, WHILE THE THEME LET THERE BE LOVE FORMED THE BASIS OF THE PERFORMANCE.

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YOUR

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

OMAN

THERE MAY HAVE BEEN ONLY ONE WINNER AT THE RECENT 7TH LADIES VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT AT BUSTAN CLUB WADI KABIR, BUT EVERYBODY PLAYED LIKE CHAMPIONS. TEAM GODDESS TOOK THE WINNERS’ TROPHY IN A HARD-FOUGHT FINAL, CHEERED ON BY A HOST OF EXCITED SPECTATORS.

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NEWS

GALLERY

STATE COUNCIL PUSHES FOR MEASLES TOUGHER TRAFFIC LAWS IN OMAN VACCINATION A MUST: S MINISTRY OF HEALTH

hocking new statistics have revealed that one in every eight deaths caused by road accidents in the Sultanate is a child, sparking calls for the Government to tighten traffic laws in the country.

According to the report released by Royal Oman Police (ROP), children aged 15 and under made up 12 per cent of road deaths in Oman last year – or total of 82 deaths out of 692 fatal accidents.

Ali al Barwani, the chief executive of the Oman Road Safety Association (ORSA) told Y in an interview that numerous lives were lost due to “negligence of basic traffic laws”.

“We all learn in school that you should not put your head or hands out of a moving car, but it seems that a lot of people don’t care for it.

“Today, when I look at the roads, I see a lot of young children standing from the sunroof or putting their heads out of the windows.

What if you have to brake suddenly?

Or even worse, what if the car loses control?

“We must take special care of our children, as they are the future of the nation,” a frustrated Ali told Y. The report, which was discussed by Oman’s Council of State, or Majlis Al Dawla, members also confirmed that the Sultanate loses more lives to traffic accidents than any other GCC country, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and even Bahrain.

THROUGH YOUR EYES

The Majlis Al Dawla gathered last Saturday (May 6) for a forum to discuss better implementation of the country’s traffic laws.

The forum was presided over by Vice-Chairman of the State Council, Sheikh Dr Al Khattab al Hinai. He was quoted by local media as saying: “We already have a new traffic law and there is a Royal Decree for it.

“The Royal Oman Police is trying to implement this gradually, and we will improve the way in which we enforce this traffic law and handle traffic violations.

“But it’s not just about the law, it’s also about education of young students in schools to generate awareness and the main purpose of this forum is to provide a direction for that,” Al Hinai added.

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A

ll residents of Oman aged between 20 and 35 have been urged by the Ministry of Health to undergo a measles vaccination, after a spike in the number of reported cases.

Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al Saidi, the Minister of Health, revealed that there were 114 confirmed cases of measles last year. However, 44 cases were registered in the Sultanate by the end of April this year.

The Ministry will be carrying out a National Measles Vaccination Campaign for nationals and residents, which will be held over two phases.

The first phase will begin on May 14.

Expats coming to Oman for a job must produce a vaccination certificate.

“The increase in cases of measles in the Sultanate is attributed to the increase in the number of people arriving from neighbouring countries, and an increase in people travelling through the country from countries which are experiencing outbreaks of several diseases,” the Minister added.

The glittering turquoise waters of Yiti beach provide a stunning backdrop for Amina Yuska to capture this beautiful shot with her iPhone.

PHOTO: Amina Yuska

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YOUR

TUNE IN

OMAN

IT WAS ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC AT THE RECENT OPENING OF A NEW TUNES STORE IN RUWI. ONE OF OMAN’S LEADING STORES FOR MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, IT OPENED ITS DOORS TO THE NEW SHOWROOM LAST WEDNESDAY. THIS IS THE BRAND’S FOURTH OUTLET AND IT INTENDS TO CATER TO MUSICIANS WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF MUSICAL PRODUCTS. TUNES BEGAN OPERATIONS IN THE SULTANATE IN 1991.

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sCaN Our Qr CODEs WITH aNY Qr rEaDEr aPP

C

ongratulations to Omar Khamis al Kiyumi and Mosammat Monira Siddiqa, who have been crowned Mr and Ms Talented of Caledonian College in Muscat!

The judges were impressed with Omar’s singing and guitar playing, while Mosammat got the thumbs up for her Bangladeshi dance number.

But with an incredible pool of talent, the judges admitted that they had a difficult job ahead of them at Caledonian College.

But at the end of the day, it was Omar and Mosammat who clinched a place in the Y’s Got Talent Grand Finale.

“Thanks for Y Magazine to be here in our college,” an elated Omar said after his win.

“As any winner, I feel so happy. I represented Caledonian College in the best way that I can and see you in the finals!”

Meanwhile, Mosammat credited the audience and the emcee for helping her get through her audition.

“It’s so overwhelming and the crowd was so amazing and so supportive. And the emcee was amazing – he actually motivated me.

“My audition went very good and I 016

MAY 11 - 17 / ISSUE 470

practiced a lot. I got so nervous, but I forgot that and just danced and now I am motivated and very prepared for the grand finale.”

Presented by Nestle, powered by Renault, and in association with VLCC, The Sultan Centre and Pizza Muscat, Y’s Got Talent aims to find the most talented university students in Muscat and reward them with exciting prizes.

Sugey Udasi, the advertising and promotions supervisor at Nestle and one of the judges at the Caledonian College audition said: “Nescafe is a proud sponsor of this event. And it was very pleasing to see how engaged the young people were in this awesome initiative. I saw a lot of talent and excitement. Overall, it was a very enjoyable event.”

With just four auditions remaining, our talent-hunting emcee and panel of judges will scour the remaining participating colleges to assess contestants, based on their two minutes in the spotlight. Once the votes are in, one boy and one girl from each college will go forward to the Grand Finale and compete against winners from the other

colleges taking part.

Whoever is named Mr Talented and Ms Talented from each college audition will each receive RO150 worth of vouchers for their efforts, as well as the chance to win even more in the Grand Finale.

The winners of each college audition will then face off against each other for the glory of being crowned overall Mr and Ms Talented, as well as the opportunity to lay their hands on a cash prize of RO250 each plus RO200 worth of vouchers!

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017

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE UNTIL

MESMERISING OMAN

JUNE

06

MAY

12

The mesmorising beauty of Oman is on show at WOW (Wednesday on Walls), at Al Majlis Café in City Seasons Hotel, Al Khuwair. The exhibition, entitled Mesmerizing Oman, showcases a range of works by artists Sheffy Thattarath, a painter who has lived in Muscat for 22 years; and Hareesh Raj, a photographer.

The show focuses on the Sultanate’s culture, nature and landscape through a series of stunning images and is definitely worth seeing.

WEEK A

WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

Y

Head to the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) for a stunning performance of Les Pêcheurs de Perles. Written by Georges Bizet at the tender age of 25 and first performed in 1863, the opera, also known as The Pearl Fishers, is set in ancient Ceylon and follows the story of two men who swear loyalty to each other. But as temptation duels with duty, jealously soon follows and rash choices bring regret. Directed by Yoshi Oïda, the opera is performed by Opéra Royal de Wallonie, Liège and stars Annick Massis as Leila and Marc Laho as Nadir. The performance begins at 7.30pm. For booking details, go to www.rohmuscat.org.om.

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It’s not often you are treated to a free concert, but that’s exactly what’s on when classical Hindustani vocalist Kaushiki Chakraborty performs tomorrow night. Accompanied on the tabla by Sandip Ghost and the harmonium by Milind Kulkarni, Kaushiki is sure to thrill the audience with her beautiful voice. The concert begins at 6.30pm and is being held in the Sur Ballroom at Hotel Muscat Holiday in Al Khuwair. Call 9988 3177 for details.

Paradise Lost

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Gallery

Movies

Celebrate International Yoga Day with a group session at the Bank Muscat headquarters in Airport Heights, Seeb. Being held under the patronage of the Embassy of India, VIP guests will include HH Sayyid Faris Bin Fatik Bin Fahr Al Said and India’s Ambassador HE Indra Mani Pandey. The aim of the session is to highlight yoga as an alternative natural exercise that can help body pain, migraines, high blood pressure and other problems. But don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and to bring your own yoga mat! For details, call 9935 0278 or 9937 2721.

Yoga Day

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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 Dinner

oddball brother Paul (Steve Coogan) is unlikely to see eye-to-eye with his patrician sibling’s slick ideas on strategy. The trouble for the moviegoer is that not one single character invokes any sympathy or even likeability. Quite frankly, after half an hour of stilted script and dull, convoluted dialogue, we couldn’t care less how it ended. Give it a miss.

Sarkar 3

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword The legend of Arthur summoning superhuman strength to pull a magical sword from a stone has proved irresistible to filmmakers down the years.

John Boorman’s Excalibur (1981), First Knight (1995, with Kevin Costner) and Disney’s cartoon The Sword in the Stone (1963) are some of the notables.

And in this outing, director Guy Ritchie turns his hand to a war-like take on the Excalibur legend.

Arthur (Charlie Hunnam) has grown up on the wrong side of the tracks. His evil uncle Vortigern (Jude Law) has done his darndest to ensure his nephew doesn’t claim his birthright and inherit the throne.

But you can’t keep a good man down, as they say, and when Charlie finally pulls the sword from the stone, then all bets are off and there’s going to be some bloody fighting, and then some.

Ritchie is a director with a recognisable brand (if not quite an

auteur) who can bring in the audiences (eg, with the Sherlock Holmes franchise) but some of his efforts have been a bit, well, average (think RocknRolla or The Man from U.N.C.L.E. Still, the hallmarks are there: irrepressible action and snappy dialogue mixed with the kind of street-smart , sardonic wit we’ve come to expect from him.

The question is: does this really work in a medieval setting. Yes, but only just.

The CGI is impressive but this timehonoured tale needs a bit more epic-style substance and fewer bellicose battles.

For all that, it’s clearly out for a modern audience that is not too bothered about the historical elements, and in that respect, Ritchie delivers. It’s hard to say if it’s blockbuster material, though.

The film also stars Eric Bana and David Beckham (yes, that’s right).

Review by Kevin McIndoe

When the mis-matched families of two sons who have committed a horrific crime get together to discuss how to proceed, you know it’s not going to end well. Congressman Stan Lohman (Richard Gere) is up for election as governor and can’t afford any skeletons in his closet. Meanwhile, his estranged

The third film in Ram Gopal Varma Sarkar’s trilogy about a powerful politician, Amitabh Bachchan is back as the ruthless godfather who places great store on family values. In this, Subhash Nagre (Bachchan) is once again at the helm of the family “business” after the death of his sons. He has to groom his grandson to eventually take over the reins. The trilogy has obviously been inspired by the Francis Ford Coppola Godfather series but what film hasn’t been inspired by another in some way? It’s not bad, for all that, with enough twists and turns to keep us interested while not quite hitting the heights of the American classic.

Long View BOYKA: UNDISPUTED In this, the fourth instalment of the fighting franchise, Boyka (Scott Adkins) has a major meltdown after an accidental death in the ring prompts him to question his future. When he finds out the wife of the man he accidentally killed is in trouble, he embarks on a series of almost insurmountable battles to free her from a life of servitude. Y wasn’t able to obtain a preview screening for this, so we can only hope it lives up to the first in the series (the second was a little disappointing). At any rate, some of the best boxing movies always have a heart, so fingers crossed.

Oman Release Date: July 6

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Contact: Movie enquiries 2460 7360 MAY 11 - 17 / ISSUE 470

021

THE HEAT IS N Summertime, and the living is easy. Or it is if you know how best to tackle the temperatures. Why not indulge in some indoor activities to keep you chilled in both body and mind?

Alvin Thomas gives you the lowdown on where to look

S

ultry days, sweltering temperatures and stifling times lie ahead of us, folks. Yes, it is summer time already, and before we even realised it, the temperature has been breaking past the 40-degree Celsius mark quite a lot of late.

This can only mean one thing: the gruff hum of air conditioners will replace the soft and sweet chirps of the birds (which will inevitably migrate); showers will only have two settings (“hot” and “extremely hot”); mirages will mantle the roads we drive on and the whole of Oman will turn into a large, open-air sauna.

Many will see this as the perfect opportunity to head off on a nice vacation but you see, unlike most European countries where the sun only

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glares down for a few weeks a year, a summer in Oman lasts a whole six months. So it’s safe to say that nobody will be getting a holiday that lasts that long.

But we, the residents of Oman, should not despair. If we stumble upon a problem, we work around it. And when those sweltering, humid days of summer hit, we simply head into the great indoors.

Of course, many of us will be either in school or at work in the early days of our annual heatwave, often until the sun sets if we are dedicated enough. However, if you are somebody hungry for action, there are numerous ways you can indulge in fun-filled activities with friends or family.

George Gomez, a father-of-three kids, aged one, four and seven, explains: “After all, going out is not just about heading to someplace you like; it is getting to know new people, sharing experiences, talking to each other and taking home some amazing memories.

“And for kids, it is even more necessary, as it helps them interract and grow in a more social manner.”

So, this week, we are looking at some of the many ways you can head into a state of “summer nirvana” without actually having to head out for a picnic to our beautiful wadis, beaches or mountains.

We are talking about keeping things within the confines of four walls and we are looking at some of the coolest ways to beat the heat.

AL MAZAAR EDUTAINMENT CENTER A

N

ot everything fun has to be flashy and gaudy, as is proven by the Al Mazaar Edutainment Centre. Situated bang in the heart of Heritage Village at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, the edutainment centre can give children the time of their lives as it boasts the only trampoline hall in the Sultanate.

Of course, if your kids aren’t bothered about jumping or somersaults, he or she can always make a beeline for the “Art Box” where they can unleash their creativity.

Children can also take part in other indoor activities such as basketball and badminton, climbing or navigating through a Gladiator-type assault course.

If you thought that was it, then proceed onwards and you will be treated to a collection of classic cars that nestle towards the corner of the centre. We’ve already reviewed the car museum, which includes special cars such as the classic Volkswagen Beetle, Bugatti Type 23 (from 1926!), the Ford Super Deluxe and even a Rolls Royce.

Where is it?

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Timings: Open daily from 9am to 8pm Pricing: Contact 2477 6856 (bookings available) Instagram: almazaar Twitter: almazaar Facebook: almazaaroman

PINZ CENTER

dults, this one is for you. If you are on the lookout for a quick and economical way to spend some quality time with friends, head to the Pinz Center at Oman Avenues Mall.

The centre has a state-of-the-art ten-pin bowling alley (hence the name Pinz) where you can show off your bowling skills. If you’re like us and can’t bowl, then simply sit back on one of the many couches with your friends and go head-tohead on one of their PlayStations.

Sami al Habsi, a student at Sultan Qaboos University, says: “I think Pinz Center has to be one of the best bowling alleys in Oman.

“I am very competitive when it comes to bowling, and sometimes my friends and I host local tournaments here.”

If neither attracts you, head to one of the many billiard or foosball tables to kill some time.

And don’t forget: if all else fails you can still call it quits and head for the mall for a spot of retail therapy.

LASER TAG

T

Where is it?

Third floor, Oman Avenues Mall, Baushar Timings: Daily from 10am to 1am Contact: 9742 5882 Pricing: RO2 per game Wesbite: omanavenuesmall.om

hey say that laser tag is for the weak. But if you were to ask us, we would say that laser tag is far more tactical and engaging than paintball, its dangerous sibling. There are numerous laser tag arenas in Oman but our favourite is the airconditioned maze at Fun Zone in Qurum.

If shooting at your friends or siblings (well, not literally) is something you’re into, then you should definitely head here.

The arena is sizeable, and you should be able to go head-to-head with a maximum of 14 players.

It is also riddled with obstacles designed to make things just that little harder.

The guns are all operated by radio frequency signals that are highly accurate, making the game all the more authentic.

Where is it?

Fun Zone, Qurum Age limit: 6 and above Timings: Thursday: 10am to 11pm; Friday: 1pm to 11pm Contact: 9567 7480 (bookings required for groups of six and above) Pricing: RO3 for 10 minutes

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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM

Where is it?

Opposite Al Alam Palace, Muttrah, Muscat Timings: Saturday-Tuesday; 9am to 3pm Closed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday * Ticket desk closes at 2.30pm Contact: 2208 1500 Pricing: RO1 for Omani and GCC nationals, RO2 for expats, RO5 for non-residents, free for Omani and GCC nationals aged 60 and over and children and students up to the age of 25

GAMING TRAILER

F

or many, this is a dream come true: a gaming trailer that travels to various around Oman, making the latest in the gaming industry accessible to everyone. The gaming trailer, as its name suggests, is a trailer dedicated to gaming, and is also the first of its kind in the Middle East!

There are limitations, though: for instance, the trailer can only host a maximum of 36 gamers at any given time but trust us when we say this: you will be going up against some of the most dedicated gamers in Oman.

Business Circle Integrated Solutions, which owns the trailer, also has a great choice of gaming titles, 15 consoles, including PlayStation, Xbox and even Nintendo Wii, and a total of seven screens under its roof.

Oh, and as an added treat, you can have a dance-off with a few of your best mates, courtesy of the two high-definition televisions and hi-fi audio system that are fitted outside the cabin.

Where is it?

The Gaming Trailer is mobile so call to enquire about the location. During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the trailer will be parked at the Oman Automobile Association.

Age limit: none Timings: Varies according to location Contact: +968 9719 9449 (bookings available) Pricing: Varies according to sponsor Facebook: Gaming Trailer Oman Instagram: gaming_traileroman

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W

alking through the doors of the The National Museum is like taking a timecapsule back to the early days of Oman.

There are 14 permanent display halls spreading over a massive 13,700 square metres, which contain more than 7,000 display objects – some of which you can interact with – thus taking visitors on an epic journey; from the earliest human settlement on the Oman Peninsula some two million years ago to the present day.

“There’s something soothing about walking around the National Museum,” says Angelene Dench, a British expat.

“The exhibits do give me a very visual representation of the past of Oman but above all, it makes me feel like I am being welcomed into the history of an entire nation. The National Museum is definitely worth visiting, and everyone staying here should visit it at least once.”

Exhibits include a stone flint believed to be two million years old – the oldest man-made object found in Oman – as well as the first throne of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said from 1970.

Facebook: National Museum Oman Instagram: nm_oman

BOWS & ARROWS F

or those of you who are not into paintball, laser tag or anything to do with guns; Bows & Arrows gives you the opportunity to try your hand at the medieval sport of archery.

It’s quite a hard sport as you not only have to find your aim, but also must apply the right amount of tension in the bow to hit the bullseye.

But don’t fret, as you have at your disposal professional archery equipment and well-trained instructors to help you make use of all that equipment.

Each archer gets a designated cubicle, and is also given specific bows and arrows that you will be comfortable with.

Where is it?

Above the food court, Muscat Grand Mall, Baushar Timings: Sunday-Thursday 10am to 11pm Friday-Saturday 10am to 12 midnight Contact: 2206 3909 Pricing: 18 arrows (1 person): RO3.600 52 arrows (2 people): RO7.600 91 arrows (3 people): RO11.400 Facebook: BowsandArrowsOman

HEALTH CLUB YELLOW SUBMARINE Y

S

wimming is one of the easiest ways to beat the heat, and also burn some calories at the same time. However, not everyone has access to a private swimming pool every day. And that’s why the swimming pool at Haffa House comes in handy: the pool is open daily from 6am onwards, and anyone can make use of the facilities.

Membership is not compulsory and you can opt to pay the nominal daily rates to access the pool. The crowd is extremely friendly and the staff very hospitable. You will also get access to lockers to keep your personal items safe, as well as the shower room.

ellow Submarine is a play area dedicated to children between the ages of one and 12.

It can be found at the Panorama and Azaiba Malls, and consists of soft toy play areas where children can wreak as much havoc as they like.

Kids can also develop their skills by making use of building blocks and solving puzzles.

Apart from that, children up to the age of four can take part with their guardian in a meet-andgreet session where they can play games, sing, play music and have snacks. There’s coffee for adults (thank you very much).

Where is it?

Panorama Mall, Baushar, Muscat Azaiba Mall, Azaiba, Muscat Timings: Weekdays: 10am to 9pm Weekends: 10am to 11pm Contact: 2422 2339 Pricing: Ages 0-2: RO3 for one hour and RO4 for unlimited play time Ages 3-12: RO4 for one hour and RO6 for unlimited play time Facebook: Yellow Submarine Oman Instagram: yellowsubmarineom

Where is it?

Opposite Sultan Qaboos Stadium, Baushar Timings: Daily 6am to 11pm Contact: 2470 7207 Pricing: Adults: RO6 for three hours Children below the age of 11: RO4 for three hours

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TURTLE DIARY Felicity Glover witnesses the birth of a new generation of endangered green turtles, whose journey has only just begun

I

t’s just after five o’clock on a warm and humid Sunday afternoon and the crowd is beginning to build on the beach at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. The excitement is palpable, with both adults and children gathering around a small roped-off site waiting for a rare moment in their lives: the chance to watch a nest of green turtles hatch and make their way to the gently lapping shoreline to begin their journey of a lifetime.

Keeping everybody in line is the Shangri-La’s dedicated turtle ranger Mohammed al Hassani, who has spent the past 11 years protecting Oman’s critically endangered hawksbill and endangered green turtles at the resort.

“I grew up in Qantab, the small fishing village just along the coast from the resort,” says Mohammed. “Fishing and the sea is a way of life for all the people in Qantab. I have always been involved with fishing and going out to sea on boats.

“Over the years I have seen many turtles in trouble, tangled in fishing lines or nets. I have always helped them as much as I could.”

These days, however, Mohammed says his passion for marine protection has become his “dream job” – and you’ll often see him patrolling the beaches at night to ensure nesting mothers are able to lay their eggs safely, as well as protecting their young.

“Obviously, there are greater threats facing the newly born hatchlings,” he says. “The most dangerous time is on the shoreline or beach right after they have hatched. They are vulnerable at that stage and that is the reason we screen and give them a little helping hand. While they are

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heading into the sea, water birds, crabs and desert foxes are potential threats.

“If they make it to the water, big waves can get them. It doesn’t get any less demanding once they are in the sea as they can be attacked by all sorts of predatory fish.”

Nesting season in Oman begins in January and carries through until August. There are four main nesting sites in the Sultanate, from the ShangriLa Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, where hawksbill and green turtles nest, to the Daymaniyat Islands (hawksbill turtles), Ras Al Hadd (green turtles) and Masirah Island (loggerhead turtles).

So far this year, Mohammed has ushered in more than 1,500 baby turtles as part of the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa’s Turtle Care Project. The year 2011, however, still holds the record of 10,174 hatchlings.

Jürgen Dörr, the general manager of the resort says they have been protecting the turtles since the hotel opened more than 11 years ago, while its Eco Centre was opened in March last year.

“The building of the resort was monitored by the Ministry of Environment, with guidance from the Five Oceans Environmental Services to ensure minimum disturbance and gain maximum benefits for turtle awareness once opened,” says Jürgen.

“Part of the agreement with the Ministry was that the resort would employ a full-time turtle ranger to professionally monitor and record the turtle activities, nesting and hatching numbers, as well as to educate local communities regarding the challenges facing the turtle species.

“We work with local schools and regularly host school trips to the Eco Centre so we can educate

children, the next generation, and help them understand their part when it comes to protecting our environment and these critically endangered turtles. It really all comes together when we take the children to the beach area to show the nests and see the turtle hatchlings take place. It’s great when they see the little hatchlings climb out from the sand and make their way into the sea.”

But back to today’s green turtle hatchlings,

which are just beginning to emerge from the sand and into the world. They might be tiny but they are determined to climb out of their nest – their natural instincts kicking in to reach the water as fast as possible.

But part of Mohammed’s job is to ensure that every one of today’s 71 hatchlings make it to the ocean safely. So he gathers them up in a specially fitted basket and enters another roped-off area – this one much larger than where the nearby nest is.

The crowd clicks away as Mohammed gently places the tiny turtles on the sand and they make a run for it, awkwardly shuffling towards the water. Some are faster than others and enter the water after just a few minutes. Another trips and lands on its back, its little legs still moving in what appears to be frustration. But Mohammed puts it back on its legs and away it goes, joining its siblings in the warm waters of the Gulf of Oman.

According to Mohammed, the hatchlings born today are all female because of the current weather conditions – if it’s hot, then the hatchlings are more likely to be female, while cooler weather means they will be male.

It will be another 15 to 20 years before these hatchlings make their way back to the beach at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa – where they will give birth to a new generation of hatchlings.

While not all of them will make it, we are sure that Mohammed will be there to welcome them home.

Turtle Friendly Tips

• Do not use torches on nesting beaches at night • Do not smoke while there are turtles on the beach • Do not touch, ride or harass nesting turtles or hatchlings • Do not litter • Do not use flash photography as this can blind and disorient turtles • Be careful where you put your feet when there are hatchlings on the beach Source: Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Turtle Care Project Booklet

Get involved

To find out more about Oman’s sea turtles, visit the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa’s Eco Centre, which is open from 10am to 6pm. Here, you can meet Mohammed and learn more about sea turtles at his daily Turtle Talk session, which begins at 5pm.

To find out when any turtle activity is taking place, such as hatching times, call the hotel’s Guest Information Centre on 2477 6677.

MAY 11 - 17 / ISSUE 470

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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 • SPAR

• 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 • SPAR • 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 • Starbucks • Tim Hortons • VLCC Wellness MBD • Bank Dhofar • Centrepoint (Splash) • SPAR • 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 MSQ • 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 • Chevrolet/GM showroom • Ford Showroom • Hatat House • Honda Showroom • Hyundai Showroom • Kia Showroom • Lexus Showroom • National Travel & Tourism • Passage To India Restaurant • Shell Petrol Station • Subaru Showroom • Suzuki Showroom • Toyota Showroom Al Mouj Muscat • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • Al Mouj Muscat

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

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ON YOUR MARQUE

We put the impressive BMW 540i through its paces in First Drive this week – P34.

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

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

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

Y- F i

Gaming

Destination

Photos: Alvin Thomas

WADI RUSAYL

ENJOYING AN IRRESISTIBLE SUNSET IS THE PERFECT TIME TO PITCH CAMP AFTER HOOKING UP WITH SOME OLD FRIENDS, SAYS ALVIN THOMAS 032

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to provide ground forces with adequate time to prepare for an attack.

But it is a perfect location for us (well, at least the three of us) to stand and look around at the beautiful wadi. You really can see the whole of Wadi Rusayl as well as a part of Wadi Al Khoud from up here.

The view is simply staggering, and the coupling winds make way for a very serene and soothing break from the hike. We also click a few photos before we head back down.

Meanwhile, Jijin manages to pull off a stunning shot of the sunset.

By now, we’re done relaxing in the fort and decide to head back down, which brings me back to the earlier statement of “what goes up must come down”. Siam hops (literally) downwards to the bottom of the hill like a gazelle while Fawas and I find it hard-going.

The loose rocks make it taxing for me as I have to take care of the expensive camera equipment. We try every possible route for the next 10 minutes or so before finally deciding that there is no point staying on top and that we have to risk a few bumps and scrapes to make it back to base.

Fawas and I then proceed through one safer route, and slowly slide down. Call it a team effort, but both of us make it down.

But we are not yet calling it a day, and continue down to the base of the wadi for some more exploring. The setting sun casts an exquisite light on some resplendent scenery, and the commanding mountain range makes for an imperious but entrancing background.

The wadi is full of spots that are filled with fresh, flowing water, and many are irresistible to swimmers who are happy to camp here and dive in. I’m particularly interested in marine life, and try to get up close and personal with the small “wadi fishes”.

Sadly, even with a 1/1000 shutter speed, they are just too quick.

We then proceed to one of the grassy areas of the wadi, and pitch camp there.

And as the clock strikes 6pm, we settle down around the car to catch a glimpse of the sun setting behind the mountains. This is probably what “picture-perfect” means. Suddenly, I feel 14 again.

HOW TO GET THERE

TRAVEL GUIDE

W

hat goes up must come down, right? The words of the 17thcentury English physicist Isaac Newton may have passed into folklore, but make as much sense as they ever did, especially when heading off into the mountains.

My mate Fawas is back in town from his studies in India. Back in the day – our schooldays to be precise – Fawas and I used to explore Muscat. Therefore, it was only fitting to hook up and swap our teenage-fuelled urban exploits for a more adult-like excursion into the wild.

Joining us for our adventure is Jijin and our friend Siam. We quickly decide upon Wadi Rusayl as it is one location we haven’t visited for quite a while.

The wadi is only about 20 minutes’ drive away from the urban sprawl.

Of course, even then, heading to a wadi in the month of May is laughable since we’ve not had heavy rains in the capital for more than two months now.

But our aim is not the wadi but the fort that sits atop one of the peaks. And that is also one of the first sights we see upon reaching our location.

My first thought is to park our trusty offroad-ready Toyota Fortuner near one of the local convenience stores and hike up. But the 40-degree-Celsius heat is too much for us to take so we end up driving as close to the fort as we can.

Even then, we are left with a daunting task: the incline is quite steep, and Jijin backs out, reassuring us that he will be the first to respond in the case of an emergency. We call him a chicken and carry on.

Hiking up is not a difficult task at all: we simply use our hands to navigate through to find the stable rocks to forge our path ahead.

Siam guides us through, and is the first to arrive at the top.

I, on the other hand find myself struggling to get traction and slip a couple of times, thanks to the burden of the camera gear.

Built with sand and rocks, it is a notable Omani fort. Sadly, it is in a sorrowful state; its condition is due to the elements over many years: there are numerous cracks and breaks in the walls, and the whole structure has collapsed at one end.

This is a shame considering its noble history. The fort was once used as a watchtower to ward off enemies and

soon reach a village. Towards the Take the exit from Al Mawaleh roundabout that leads you towards end of the village you will find the Sultan Qaboos University. Proceed entrance to the wadi. . onwards for 15km and you will GPS coordinates: reach the university roundabout.

From there, take the exit towards the N23°34’20.1” Muscat Expressway. Once you are E58°’07’06.7” at the exit, you will find a training ground used by the ROP. You will

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FIRST DRIVE

CARS ADVENTURES

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Photos: Alvin Thomas

The German giant’s latest 5-Series has the weight of expectation on it, and it delivers. Alvin Thomas reports

he world is a pretty strange place: people would rather have pop music over classic jazz and soul; Adele over Kate Bush; microwaved pizzas over real hand-tossed ones; virtual relationships over real relationships; Trump over Hillary… do you get my drift?

Well, if not, my point is: why would you choose something inferior to the alternative option? Why shackle yourself with something mediocre when you can have the best, right?

So why would you take to the wheel of any car that is not the “ultimate driving machine”?

Yes, I’m talking about BMW, and more so about the all-new 5-Series.

And if numbers are all you care about, let me put down some facts: seven generations spanning across 45 years, more than 30 different variants and five million cars sold worldwide; the BMW 5-Series is, and has always been, a pioneer in the premium midsize sedan segment.

Things are no different this year, either. But then, one could ask: is that a good thing? Or are things getting a touch too predictable?

Well, if the design is anything to go by, then you will surely feel right at home. Sure, it looks more grown-up and 7-Series-esque but with that traditional kidney-bean grille and elongated headlights, you will certainly be able to tell that this is indeed the fiver.

If you’re nitpicking though, you can point out that the new headlights are carefully, and rather seamlessly, integrated into the grille. Also, the new air intakes are more aggressive and effective than those found in previous versions.

The side profile follows suit too: BMW has only made subtle changes, which include highlighting the curves, and the sharp line that runs all the way from

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the front fender to the C-section in the rear.

I have to admit, though, it looks properly gorgeous – and that is something you do not hear me say about German cars.

People who have grown accustomed to the BMWs of old will also find themselves right at home with the new interior. It is laid out systematically; button placements are pin-point perfect and there aren’t any unnecessary buttons flagging the otherwise functional cabin.

Gone is the old awkward-looking steering wheel, and in place resides a completely redesigned wheel, which is leather-wrapped and fitted with a hexagonal centre. Moreover, it still is thick-rimmed and provides a snug fit while driving.

My 540i tester is also completely clad in leather from top to bottom. Even the top of the dashboard and the headliner are finished in soft-touch materials.

It all feels very well put together, unlike the fascias of some of its other close European and Asian rivals.

There’s plenty of leg room and headroom for the driver and also the passengers in the front and back. The new 5er does ride in a marginally stretched chassis, which makes way for that added leg room.

The seats are very comfortable, and provide very good bolstering while taking sharp corners. The driver seat in particular has been endowed with great side and lower back cushioning.

If you are still not convinced about the interior, however, just take the 5er for a spin at night. The adjustable LED mood-lighting inside the cabin (which

is picked straight from the 7-Series) completely transforms it into an elegant cruiser, possibly only bettered by its own sister-company – Rolls Royce.

Meanwhile, the BMW iDrive (version 6.0) with its 26cm touchscreen is superb, and even intuitive.

The graphics are the best in its class, and the touch response possibly even better than you would find in other European cars. My tester 540i also came with an amazing-sounding 600-watt 12-speaker Harman/ Kardon system, which I would urge you to opt for if you are shopping for this car.

Since its inception, however, the 540i has been known for its driving prowess. Underneath that bonnet lies a 3.0-litre twin-turbo in-line six-cylinder engine that can pump out 340hp and a burly 450Nm of torque. Power is put down (on all variants) through the rear wheels via a slick eight-speed automatic.

The gear shifts are incredibly quick and almost unnoticeable unless you are taking control of them

Destination

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

through the paddle-shifters and gunning it. The shifts are so smooth I could – rather effortlessly – slam dunk the 100kph mark from a standstill in under six seconds… on a 40-degree-Celsius afternoon. A better (and lighter) driver can easily attain the same given the right conditions in a mere 5.1 seconds.

The most stimulating part of driving the 540i, however, is still the cornering. It sticks to corners like glue (with traction control on) and does so with minimal body roll. Push it further and you will be treated to the BMW’s trademark oversteer (powerslide); and there’s nothing subtle about it.

Keep the turbo spooled up and the revs within the torque band, and the car starts smoking its own tyres even before you hit the corner. Of course, to do that you would have to set the car in “Sport+” mode.

The chassis, which is composed of lightweight aluminium, is very well sorted, and even lets you wag its tail out midway through a corner without a moment’s hesitation.

Y- F i

Gaming

CARS

The steering, which is electric, is precise on normal driving conditions and fairly predictable during spirited driving. There is very little feedback being translated from the steering to the driver, though. The steering is very well weighted in “Sport+” mode, and light in normal driving conditions.

Many journalists have criticised (after Jeremy Clarkson’s review of the BMW M5) that the steering borders on un-driveable in “Sport+” mode. But I have to report that none of that is true. I also found the brakes on the car to be excellent. Actually, wait… these are the best brakes that I have tested on a normal family sedan. The brake feel is sublime and the brake force delivery is linear.

When all is said and done, the BMW 540i is a fantastic car that no longer feels like a stretched version of the smaller BMW 3-Series (like its predecessors) but rather a slightly smaller version of the lovely 7-Series. It really is a fantastic car.

So, is the BMW 5-Series the “ultimate driving machine”? Well, if there exists such a thing, then the it is certainly up there with the best. Fabelhaft!

BMW 540i Specifications: Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo in-line sixcylinder engine Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Horsepower: 340hp Torque: 450Nm Top speed: 250kph (limited) Rear-wheel drive BMW iDrive control w/ 26cm touchscreen BMW ConnectedDrive 12-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system Head-up display 8.5km/litre in city/ 12.7km/litre in highway Four-zone automatic air conditioning Optional ‘M’ kit Traction Control Stability Control Parking assistant

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CARS ADVENTURES

1. Go to a glacier cave on a husky-pulled sledge 2. Watch wildlife at Forlandet National Park 3. Take a boat trip around spectacular Tempelfjorden 4. Visit the excellent Barentsburg Pomor Museum 5. Sample some of the reindeer-based local dishes

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COOL RUNNINGS

Head to Svalbard in Norway for some unique winter sports and incredible landscapes.

Destination

Cars

Y-Fi

Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

Pal Eriksen recommends

SVALBARD, NORWAY

W

e don’t like to stint on adventure at Y. So when that summer heat kicks in and you really do fancy going to the ends of the earth then you’ve come to the right place.

Svalbard is an enchanting arctic wilderness of stunning, almost sinister beauty.

Set in an archipelago, the Svalbard Islands can be found halfway between the upper northernmost tip of Norway and the North Pole. They are home to around 3,000 people, two-thirds of whom live in the town of Longyearbyen, on Spitsbergen Island (the largest, and the only one that is permanently populated).

This is about as into the wild as you can possibly get, and is as close as you can get to the North Pole without attempting to imitate explorers like Ernest Shackleton.

Svalbard literally means “cold coast”, and a more apt name would be hard to find. There are two seasons here: spring and summer. Spring offers the remaining remnants of winter sports such as skiing, snowmobiles and sledges hauled across the steppes by packs of huskies. Summer brings longer days and warmer weather, with boat trips, walking, and excursions to glaciers, canoeing and fishing. If you were thinking of venturing to this magnificent place to see the Northern Lights, you can only do so in early spring.

In December and January, Svalbard is almost in total darkness; with just half an hour’s sunlight until the sun rises in April, which then doesn’t set again until August.

With still-frozen rivers, endless steppes, magnificent glaciers and fjords and the most impressive array of ice caves ever, this is a veritable wilderness of whiteness.

Longyearbyen is hardly the Wild West though. There are supermarkets, shops, cafes and restaurants (one of which is Thai), where your lunch-time burger might be made of reindeer meat.

A R C T IC

FLOWE RS AN VERY D A RO COLOU W OF RFUL H OMES

My favourite place

Pyramiden, an abandoned Soviet-era mining town. In its heyday it must have been the least ugly mining settlement in the world, with the magnificent Nordenskildbreen glacier to preside over it. No sovereign state had made a claim on the islands until the Svalbard treaty of 1920, which granted them to Norway while giving other countries like Russia the right to mine here, and their citizens’ right of residence. You can book a trip from Longyearbyen to this abandoned Soviet-era village, which 1,200 once people called home. It’s an eerie place: desolate homes, a gym, a theatre and a school all have a forlorn air about them, and radiate a palpable sense of foreboding. Maybe they sensed the global collapse in oil prices that sealed their doom in 1998. It certainly makes for a unique day out though.

THE D D E E R ON SVALBAR M E A D OW

Highlights

Who wouldn’t want to be hauled across the snow by a dozen doughty and determined huskies? But you can also book yourself a summer dog-sleighing trip to the Foxfonna glacier. All you will hear is the mushing sound of your own tentative footprints in this mind-numbingly silent environment. An ice cave is created in summer when melted water runs through a glacier. In winter, this freezes and creates icy channels and ornate crystals inside the glacier, which will always be a few degrees below freezing point, no matter what the weather is like outside. Getting to one will be an all-day excursion, best started by driving up to about 400m above sea level where you will hike (or be pulled) along towards the ice cave. There, unless you’re the claustrophobic type, you will savour so many undulating ice blue chunks of ice and water – magnificently lit – you’ll think you’ve dived into a giant bottle of Pepsi Blu. Then (after lunch) you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding fjords. For your next trip, you can’t miss the polar bears, walruses, seals and reindeer (on a guided excursion, of course).

Lowlights None, unless you mean it literally. This is Norway and in a region as remote as this, it’s not going to be cheap. Also, do book any activities in advance because the companies who organise excursions don’t do them every day as this is not a major tourist trap, to say the least.

Souvenirs Most of Longyearbyen’s shops are in the pedestrian-friendly town centre. You will find shops selling knitwear, crafts and outdoor gear. Svalbard is a tax-free zone so prices are lower than in mainland Norway.

Getting ther

Emirates and Qatar Airways both offer the quickest flights from Muscat to Oslo (Norway’s capital) with just one stop. From Oslo, it’s a three-hour flight to Longyearbyen with Norwegian Air.

A POLA R BEA R AND HER C THE PA UB ON C K IC E

Where to stay There is a Radisson Blu in Longyearbyen, and plenty of options to search on websites such as Booking.com, Kayak, Expedia, Trivago and Hotels.com

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Destination

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

GEEKY GADGETS Alvin Thomas checks out some devices for the discerning buyer PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Bluetooth speakers of old have been notorious for lacking bass and producing jangly tones, in view of portability. Ah, but you see this is no ordinary Bluetooth speaker. This isn’t even your normal hi-fi system: the Devialet Gold Phantom is one of the best audio systems (vouched by tech-star Lewis from Unbox Therapy) your money can buy. It emits an ultradense sound with deep bass, no distortion, saturation or even background noise.

Apart from that it also looks like an ornament than your generic boxy speaker.

Yours for RO1,550 from amazon.com

HUE LIGHTS How amazing would it be if you could control the lights in your room using only your voice? Truly, right? Well, if that’s the case, check out these Philips Hue smart bulbs.

These LED lights pair easily with your phone, tablet or smart assistant, and will respond to your commands.

The bulbs are also multi-coloured to suit your mood or environment and you can control up to 50 bulbs in one bridge. Yours for RO17.3 from amazon.com

ON RECORD Throwback Thursday will never be the same with the Archive LP. Underneath the uninspiring name lies a very adept device that can convert records into digital music files. This means that your digital music files will never fade or degrade in quality; they will be preserved on your computer or smartphone.

You also get software (EZ Vinyl) to help isolate your music and automatically separate tracks. Best of all, it only costs RO34.6 at scientificsonline.com

ART MEETS SCIENCE

EDITOR’S PICK

WE’RE NOT SURE IF WORDS CAN DO JUSTICE TO THE ASTROLABIUM 2000. THE DEVICE IS A METICULOUS REPRODUCTION OF THE “HEAVEN MACHINE”, WHICH WAS DEVELOPED IN THE 18TH CENTURY BY CLOCK MAKER PHILIPP MATTHAAUR HAHN. IT FEATURES A QUARTZ REGULATED BRASS MECHANISM THAT AIDS IN INDICATING TIME, MONTH, DATE, MOON PHASE AND EVEN ZODIAC SIGNS. WHAT’S EVEN MORE AMAZING IS THAT IT CAN PHYSICALLY SHOW YOU THE YEARLY REVOLUTION OF EARTH AROUND THE SUN, AND THE DAILY ROTATION OF EARTH ON ITS AXIS. THE BASE IS MADE OF A MAHOGANY LACQUERED HARDWOOD AND THE MOUTH-BLOWN GLASS DOME MEASURES 26.6 X 17.7CMS IN DIAMETER. BUY THIS FOR RO2,195 FROM SCIENTIFICSONLINE.COM

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Alvin Thomas reviews the best 'mystery' PC games of 2017… so far WHAT REMAINS OF EDITH FINCH Realism games have definitely come a long way since the days of Tom Clancy: Splinter Cell and What Remains of Edith Finch is a testament to that. Sitting alongside titles such as Kentucky Route Zero and Mass Effect 3, the game certainly rakes in praise for its brilliant first-person story-driven gaming experience. The story revolves around the incredible (and tragic) story of the Finch family but what’s best is that you get to explore the plethora of dazzling labyrinths in the Finch home.

As you go along, you get to delve into the history of the Finch family, their deep and dark secrets and other very (very!) interesting facts. This would definitely make a brilliant movie.

App of the Week

Info Box INSIDE

Developer:

GIANT SPARROW

Publisher:

ANNAPURNA INTERACTIVE

Rating: 12+

NASA If you’re looking for the best sciencerelated application currently on the internet, look no further; the NASA app should have you covered. With the app, you can discover the latest in the world of science through images, videos, mission information, news, stories or even tweets.

You also get free access to NASA TV, which is a fun space, literally, for both kids and adults trying to get to grips with science.

Download for free from iTunes or Google

Play

OUTLAST 2 When you are asked to name the best horror flicks of alltime, chances are you will name The Exorcist and The Insidious. Well, Outlast is – in true form – the “Exorcist” of the gaming world. This game is not for the fainthearted and there are relentless scares to be had over the course of the game. Of course, like many such titles of today it does suffer from pacing issues: the storyline switches in an almost outlandish manner in an instant.

Set that aside and you will be left with one of the most cathartic horror experiences. Definitely a must-have if you believe in the paranormal.

Info Box INSIDE

Developer:

HOUSEMARQUE

Publisher: UBISOFT

Rating: 18+

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

FOREVER BLUE It’s safe to say that denim will never go out of style.

From jeans to jackets and anything else in between, it’s an enduring classic that suits all ages and tastes, such as this chic wrap dress from M&Co.

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

k o o L e h

aran K e tin hris C , t ry tree esto s o h h g s e hi rmy h a t e o t H A staple in everyone’s wardrobe, end e look. ram h jeans are loved by one and all. This g i h g h t t ta e e s “boyfriend-style” pair from H&M are h t n g I o comfortable, while the low rip and the From s you t tine on s handwoven detail add a millennial i p r l he w Ch touch. From RO18 o l Fol

T t Ge

T-shirts and jeans are a classic combination but you can level your look up in this glamorous, embellished top from Zara. From RO18

A cute denim dress is a wardrobe essential these days, such as this one from H&M that can be also double up as a wrap jacket. From RO16

Florals can be added to anything for a cute yet fashionable feel. This M&Co long-sleeved denim shirt is a stylish option for weekends. From RO12.5

Give a twist to the classic teardrop earrings. Wear these ultra-chic abstract design earrings from Accessorize and add a touch of flair to your ensemble. From RO17.5

Step out in style with a pair of cool velour sandals from H&M; everyday wear that can be worn for all occasions. From RO11 Add an edge to your look with this ultramodern robot box handbag from Zara. From RO26

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

PRIME MOVER Making our make-up last throughout the day is a challenge, and a good primer can make all the difference, says Christine Karan

A

s we dawdle along the beauty counters of supermarkets, pharmacies or make-up shops, we are always in two minds when it comes to some products, often thinking: “What do these do?” and “Do I really need this?”

There are literally thousands of beauty products in several forms and formulas to beautify us from head to toe.

One example is primer. Although it has been around for a few years now, it’s the latest product that almost all your favourite beauty brands are attempting to reboot.

What is a primer? Essentially, it is a base for foundation or face make-up that enables it to stay on longer. It gives your face a fresh look, sheen and a high-definition finish, according to several beauty experts, including one quoted in The Dermatology Review, an online resource for skin care specialists and industry leaders.

Why use a primer, which is an extra step to your makeup routine? Many women, especially those who have to get through a long day, swear by it as it keeps their makeup smudge-free all day.

Another advantage with primer is that make-up stays on irrespective of whether the weather is cold, hot, humid or dry. And as most primers contain SPF, it adds another layer of sun protection. Primers also help to even the skin tone and get your complexion ready for a long evening out with flash photography.

With all those positive things being said, primers do have their own not-so-positive side, just like any other product. As silicon-based polymers or mineral particles constitute the predominant ingredients of primers, it may clog your skin pores by not allowing them to breathe.

If you have large pores, primers may not be a makeup essential for you. It can make your skin oilier when combined with make-up.

Cindy Sim from Shrayskincare.com says: “The mineral 042

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powder in primers absorbs your skin’s natural oils, which urges the skin to produce its own oils in response.

“Additionally, make-up makes your skin dry out faster because they also contain mineral powders. When primers and make-up are used together, they cause your skin to produce excess oils.”

However, some new brands such as LORAC Cosmetics have introduced primers with a robust blend of plant extracts to soothe the skin, vitamins to nourish it, and antioxidants to protect it.

Makeup Forever’s Lijha Stewart says that if you are happy with your skin texture and the wearability of your foundation, then “not everyone really needs primer”.

Another downside of primers is the price. They are quite expensive and can eat up a good chunk of your beauty budget.

So, just like any beauty product, primers have their own pros and cons. However, make your call with due regard to the above facts and your discretion.

And always make sure to patchtest the product.

Beauty

HEALTH

Fashion

TAKE CARE I

Although millions of people globally suffer from arthritis, it is often overlooked as symptoms aren’t always so apparent

's not easy to practice self-love no matter who you are, and for people living with a chronic condition such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – an autoimmune disease of the joints that affects millions of people around the world – it can feel even more overwhelming to love a body that doesn't always cooperate with you.

Rheumatoid arthritis can create body image challenges by causing painful, swollen joints and inflammation in the hands, knees and feet that may make you feel like you're not yourself and your body is betraying you.

RA is often referred to as an "invisible" illness that also contributes to many emotional and physical symptoms, like fatigue and joint damage, that can't be seen from the outside. These symptoms can impact self-love for people who are living with RA. If you feel like you are fighting your body, it isn't a surprise that body image and self-esteem may be a source of struggle and frustration.

Further, poor body-image may come from a lack of public representation.

For people living with RA, not being "present" in mass media can make it challenging to see their experiences and their body as normal – even though there is no "normal". There is no one way to be, and we do a huge disservice when diversity of all kinds is missing from what we see and/or consume.

Practicing self-love and self-care is important in feeling comfortable with relationships too. It can be difficult to engage in meaningful and healthy relationships and friendships without a good dose of confidence and care for yourself. If we don't feel good about who we are, we may be less likely to speak up for ourselves, less likely to have – or ask for – pleasure, and less likely to have equal, balanced relationships.

We only have one body, and it's important to come up with strategies to remind ourselves that no one is perfect and we should love who we are.

Check out these tips that may help address self-love while living with a chronic condition like RA:

Make time to self-reflect

Think about what makes you feel good. When do you feel most beautiful?

Most confident? Capitalise on those times and think about what those experiences have in common. Is it music? Is it a smell? Is it a particular texture? Can we commit to finding a few moments in each day to breathe and shift our focus from frustration to positivity?

Write it down

Keeping a daily journal of your feelings can help you identify areas that you need to work on both mentally and emotionally. It can be difficult to realise that you need to improve self-love until you see it written down on paper.

Send yourself reminders

Leave Post-it notes or set spontaneous calendar alarms throughout the year to inspire you and remind you to practice self-love.

Don't keep it all inside

While self-love is very personal, it doesn't mean you should bottle up your feelings. Tell a partner, friend or even a professional about your feelings and lean on them for support.

Life isn't perfect, but if you give yourself the freedom to love the skin you have, you may be far better off. For more tips on self-love and relationships while living with RA, visit www.Arthritis.com.

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CREAM OF THE CROP Quick and easy, dairy products can add a healthy kick to snacks and meals for all the family to enjoy.

UNLEASH THE POWER OF DAIRY I

Despite some bad press, dairy products can pack a punch on the nutrition front

f you’re trying to boost the nutrition of your meals and snacks then look no further than your fridge. Dairy products provide a powerful nutrition package that can help you meet your nutrient needs and achieve better health.

Dietary guidelines recommend that people from the age of nine and above consume three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods every day.

With nine essential nutrients, milk, cheese and yogurt deliver a unique nutrition package superior to milk alternatives such as almond or rice beverages, which are often fortified or fall short on these important nutrients.

Summer Pizza Snack Recipe courtesy of Cindy Heins, § 1/2 cup chopped cucumber Heins Family Farms Total time: 22 minutes Method: Servings: 12 § Heat the oven to 190C. In a 22cmNote: A cup is about 340g or 12oz by-33cm baking pan, spread out the crescent roll dough. Seal the seams Ingredients: together to form one large rectangle § 1 tube (226g) crescent rolls across the bottom of the pan. Bake § 1 tub (226g) low-fat cream for 10-12 minutes or until lightly cheese browned. Cool on the rack. § 1/4 cup light mayonnaise § In a small bowl, mix together the § 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder cream cheese, mayonnaise and § 1 cup shredded part-skim garlic powder. Spread evenly over mozzarella cheese the entire cooled crust. Top with § 3/4 cup sliced cherry tomatoes mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, broccoli § 1/2 cup sliced black olives and cucumber. Cut into 12 squares and § 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets serve.

During the hot summer months, when you don’t feel like spending much time in the kitchen, dairy products can be convenient. Many are ready to use in recipes and can round out a meal.

For a quick, easy and healthy snack this summer, put a fresh take on traditional pizza with this recipe that uses crescent rolls topped with cheeses and fresh seasonal veggies. Alternatively, turn up the heat on a classic beef burrito by adding warm pepper jack cheese and black beans.

Visit MidwestDairy.com for additional recipes and learn more about how to unleash the power of dairy nutrition. .

– Family Features

Beef Burrito with Pepper Jack Cheese and Black Beans Total time: 9 minutes Servings: 6

including green tops

Method: Ingredients: § In a non-stick skillet; brown ground beef and § 450g ground beef garlic over a medium heat (break the beef sirloin mixture into smaller chunks with a spatula). § 2 tsp minced garlic Drain the fat and stir in 1/2 cup salsa. Set aside. § 1 cup chunky salsa, § Spread 1/3 cup rice on the centre of the tortilla, divided § 2 cups cooked brown or leaving a 1.5cm border. Scatter about two tablespoons of beans and 1 1/2 tablespoons corn white rice § 6 whole-wheat tortillas over rice. Spread 1/3 cup beef mixture and 1/4 cup cheese over the corn. Top with two teaspoons (22cm each) salsa and a few slices of green onion. Fold in two § 1 can (425g) black opposite edges of tortilla (2.5cm each) and roll beans, drained and up. Place seam-side down on microwave-safe rinsed dish. § 1 can (310g) corn §

Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Place kernels, drained burritos in the microwave oven and heat for one § 2 cups shredded minute or until heated through. Serve with the pepper jack cheese remaining salsa. § Sliced green onion,

MAY 11 - 17 / ISSUE 470

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get d u B ndly Frie Info Box

HEALTHY KITCHEN

Opp. Al Sahwa Towers, Azaiba Opening hours: 9am-11pm Dinner for two: RO17.8

HEALTHY KITCHEN

Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 6/10 FOOD 5/10 AMBIENCE Excellent burgers with a service to match. Needs an update in the menu, though Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

OLD HABITS DIE HARD FOR ALLEN THOMAS AND HIS BROTHER AT THIS EATERY, BUT AT LEAST THEIR MEALS WERE LOW-CALORIE

I

t has been a while since I took time to focus on my diet. But there’s a reason for that: tiring work days mean I don’t often find time for proper meals. Therefore, the inevitable option is usually fast food.

Not any more, though. I’ve started working out (gingerly but valiantly) to get back into shape. And nothing helps more with weight loss than eating healthily. So with that in mind, I headed to a new eatery, Healthy Kitchen, with my brother Alvin.

Located in Azaiba, opposite Al Sahwa Towers (which is your landmark), Healthy Kitchen seems to be the kind of place that would catch the eye of a fitness buff. There are two gymnasiums within a 500-metre radius of the restaurant.

We are both impressed by the look of the restaurant. It is small and compact if a tad too focused on the health image: the restaurant is split into two portions by numerous containers of Whey Protein, which only serves to make me feel rather uncomfortable.

Scanning the area, we figure that it isn’t the kind of restaurant most people would head to at the end of a long week; it looks like the preferred choice for fitness buffs and gym bunnies.

In no time, we have an attentive and amenable waiter attending to our order.

After going through the 70-odd dishes listed on the menu, my brother orders a fresh watermelon juice. I go for the Berry Bee. Along with this, we also order a Grilled Tenderloin Beef steak slathered in BBQ sauce.

The menu actually makes a point of listing the nutritional values of all the dishes. Our steak, for instance, contains 149 calories, 34 grammes

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cheese (low fat, I assume) and avocados enclosed in a wholemeal bun. Now this, my friends, is finesse.

This was a burger that simply made us forget THIS WAS A BURGER THAT all the flaws we’d experienced so far. Even in a healthy restaurant with wholesome dishes, the SIMPLY MADE US FORGET burger keeps the right balance, without the extra calories.

ALL THE FLAWS WE’D My brother seems to enjoy his, too. His burger EXPERIENCED SO FAR comprises sautéed mushrooms, a beef patty, cheese and a few veggies; again all enclosed in a wholemeal bun. of protein, one gramme of fat and one gramme Happy with the burgers we thought of trying of those darned carbohydrates. Worried that out some pudding. We dive in and order the the steak won’t be enough for two, we order a Mushroom Beef Burger and a Dynamite Burger. blueberry cheesecake.

Even though it missed the mark compared with Since we have some (rare) spare time on our conventional cheesecakes, it does a good job of hands, my brother and I confer on how healthy these dishes will actually be. Burgers, after all, are offering flavour and texture. We didn’t love it but it was good. still considered to be fast food.

Intrigued by the look of the chocolate mousse, We may have ordered a little too much, we order one of those as well. As we dig in, methinks, but it’s too late to back out now. however, we notice that the creamy texture is all it Our order does take a good 10 minutes to arrive. We wanted the drinks to arrive first but to has going for it. It just tastes awful, courtesy of the artificial sweeteners. our disappointment, they come along with the As we pay and depart, we realise that our dishes. tummies aren’t full. We wonder what to do about A sip from the Berry Bee has me cringing, I it before Alvin asks: “Wanna grab a shawarma?” cannot lie. I’m a deep lover of berries but this is “Hmmm... sure. Why not?” I reply. not something I’m enjoying; it’s bitter and bland.

All in all, it is a fair dining experience. It is the I immediately ask the waiter to sweeten it up so I right place to find the best healthy low-fat burgers can gulp it down easily.

Meanwhile, my brother is enjoying his although but the other dishes we had need a bit of work. (typically) he has a few complaints on how it differs Do try this place out if you are on a strict diet, though. from his usual tipples.

But, again going healthy comes with its own set Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see of perks… and sorrows. reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com Then our steak comes: it is served with white rice and boiled potatoes with Thousand Island dressing and garlic paste.

We expect the steak to be a large portion, but we’re left disappointed because they are beef jerkies sautéed in BBQ sauce and there is not a single slice of steak on the plate.

The taste was definitely missing something.

Without the fat, the beef simply has no soul. This also makes the meat chewy after cooking.

Then our burgers come in. The Dynamite Beef Burger comprises capsicum, reduced beef patty,

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