Y issue 523

Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup Preview

A CELEBRATION OF THE BEAUTIFUL GAME Powerful Porsche

EXPLORING THE ALL-NEW 718 BOXSTER S

News: OMAN TO DEVELOP NEW 10 TEMPORARY WORK PERMIT SCHEME

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DESTINATION: Jabal Akdhar TASTE TEST: Bakery & BBQ YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

JUN 07 - 13 2018 / ISSUE 523 • WEEKLY

CATCHING

OUR BREATH

PLUS!

TOBACCO USE IS ON THE RISE IN OMAN. Y ASKS WHEN WILL WE STUB OUT FOR GOOD?

WONDERFUL WARSAW

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NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

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INGENIOUS CAR GADGETS

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GLOW WITH TOMATO

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EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

Fast forward I

n light of the World Health Organization’s recent World No Tobacco Day held on May 31, 2018, this week’s edition of Y explores the alarming upward trend of tobacco use in the Sultanate. With 18 billion cigarette packets are sold each day worldwide, it’s an addiction that has far surpassed epidemic proportions.

One in 10 deaths around the world is caused by smoking, according to a 2017 study by the Lancet Medical Journal. The study also shows that the tobacco crisis is far from over, with the threat to lives spreading across the globe – including Oman.

Smoking is the second biggest risk factor for early death and disability after high blood pressure – and as the Sultanate explores a plan to introduce a 100 per cent tax on tobacco products, will the efforts to control tobacco use pay off? We discuss this issue in this week’s our cover story where our experts and doctors talk about the increasing prevalence of tobacco addiction in Oman.

And, in lighter news, football fans around the world are looking ahead to the start of the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup which kicks off its opening match on June 14 in Moscow.

Each week Y will be bringing you the latest recap of game highlights, scores, predictions, upsets, and more starting with a very special sneak preview of what’s to come – so flip on over to page 28 and check it out!

Happy reading!

editor@y-oman.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi SENIOR ONLINE EDITOR Nishad Padiyarath ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER/REPORTER Hasan Al Lawati

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REPORTER Alvin Thomas

PHOTOGRAPHER Shaquel al Balushi

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan

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JUN 7 - 13 / ISSUE 523

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contents JUNE 07 - 13

Your Oman

2018

This Week

08 Voice Of Oman

Prasad Panicker 10

News New centre to bring all job services under one roof

12

News Majlis call to assess losses from Cyclone Mekunu

16

Movies Superstar Rajinikanth’s Kaala to release in Oman today

18

Ramadan Car Guide We feature the BMW M5 in this edition of Ramadan auto guide

10 Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Jabal Akhdar 34 First Drive

Porsche 718 Boxter S 38 Y-Fi

Car gadgets

16 Health and Beauty 40 Fashion

Iftar look 43 Beauty

Glow with tomato

Features 20

It’s time to get serious Will the ‘sin tax’ to be imposed this month help curb the urge to smoke?

24 Balancing act

Meet Oman’s handstand

artist Fahad al Abri

28

Food and Drink 44 Food Feature

Date with taste 46 Taste Test

BBQ & Bakery

44

38

40

NEXT ISSUE...

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

I

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THE VOICE OF OMAN

PRASAD PANICKER REFLECTS ON THE MISSES OF THE PAST AND THE BLESSINGS OF THE PRESENT AS RUSSIA GETS READY TO DISH OUT THE FOOTBALL FEAST

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: Exam stress is an unavoidable part of student life. Do you have tips for students to cope with it?

MOHAN ANANDAN

O

ne of the best things at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan this time around is that there’s going to be a feast of a different kind. The feast we are all invited to is not getting over a day or two — it is going to last a month, and one extra day for a grand feast.

The host of the feast is Russia but we don’t have to travel miles to get a taste of it. We could just sit at home, slouch on the sofa and enjoy the fun on the television set.

The timing is so good from another angle as well. The matches, all of them, are going to be held in the evenings, and at 7pm and 10pm Oman time when the feast gets to the exciting stages of quarterfinals and semifinals. Those who are employed could get back home and enjoy the thrills and spills with a home-made cup of tea.

Russia is hosting the show for the first time, and it’s going to be a first time for me when I could sit completely free from other worries to root for my stars. Viewing the previous ones of my time was a matter of adjustment for me: in the early years they happened around school or college days and later when I began working as a journalist there was only time to sneak a peek.

Now at home and happily retired I am committed body and soul to the Russian agenda until July 15. Nothing on earth will stop me from having my 90 minutes of fame, I hope.

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Consistency in revising study portion is very important. Make notes on important points which can be used as a tool when revising for the final exam rather than going through the entire syllabus. Make it a point to revise/study the portion taught at school/tuition classes on a daily basis rather than keeping it for the following day or later. Shift over to a different subject if stuck up or finding any difficulty in concentration. It is good to take intermittent breaks to facilitate increased blood circulation and recuperate from study-induced lethargy.

Parents should not pressure their children by keeping tabs on their study time and telling them that it was not to the desired level.

Children should be the best judge of their study pattern and parents should not be judgmental of their efforts, which will only add to their stress and affect their confidence level as well.

NEHAL SARVAIYA

Stick to a routine by eating and sleeping around the same time each day. Get a good night’s sleep. This gives your brain time to recharge and remember what you’ve learnt. Give yourself mini rewards, like watching a TV show or going for a run, once you have achieved your study goals. Keep focused on your study – don’t let other things like friendship worry or distract you. Avoid junk food: it will bring a sudden burst of energy that fades quickly leaving you feeling worn out. Eat a well-balanced diet — fresh fruit, vegetables, cereals, grains, nuts and protein are good for the brain and energy levels. Allow yourself time to rest: try out some relaxation activities like deep breathing,

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meditation or listening to music.

NITYA BALAJI

The mind needs to be relaxed and free from distractions. The primary solution to exam stress would be to cut off from mobile phones and gadgets that add strain to the eyes and distract you from the primary goal. Taking a walk in a garden in the evenings, getting adequate sleep and eating light food at regular intervals can help in reducing stress levels. Plenty of water and fresh fruit juices can reduce anxiety. Keeping a timeline schedule of syllabus to be completed and adhering to it will eliminate last-minute stress.

Most importantly, the journey to the result is as important as the result itself. The preparation and the exam should be handled without fear but with freshness and courage.

RONNEIL SALES VALIENTE

When I was a student I experienced exam stress but I had been able to cope with it. Here are a few tips which were useful for me during my high school and college years: First, recognise when you’re stressing out. Have a break from revision and chat to someone who understands the level of pressure you’re feeling to help get things into perspective. Second, avoid comparing subject knowledge with your peers. Having a chat with friends about stress levels can be helpful, but comparing revision notes and knowledge of the topic you’re being assessed on can never.

Find a revision method that works for you and stick to it. Third, know when and where you work best. Some people prefer to wake up early in the morning while others prefer to stay up late working in their rooms. Find out when you

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feel most alert and aim to do the most revision then. Fourth, eat well. Make sure you’re providing your brain and your body with the fuel it needs for concentrating on revision. Eat as much fresh fruits and vegetables as possible.

Limit coffee intake. Most importantly, make sure you eat breakfast before exams. Fifth, get your eight hours of sleep. Don’t revise right before switching your light off for a night’s sleep. Sixth, exercise. Physical activity is one of the best things you can do to de-stress. Anything from a 20-minute walk to an hour- long exercise class helps reduce physical tension and releases natural feel-good chemicals in the brain. Seven, try relaxation techniques. If you’re feeling really anxious before an exam, find a calm quiet space and try breathing deeply in and out for a couple of minutes while focusing on something pleasant. Also, try deep-breathing techniques during exams to help reduce feeling panicked. Eight, have self-discipline. Turn off your cell phone, television, and avoid using iPad and going online on social media sites when it’s time for revision and study hours.

Lastly, reward yourself before and after the exams. For example, reward yourself by watching the latest episode of your favourite programme after a couple of hours of revision, or treat yourself to a few snacks, and go to the mall with your friends when the exams are over. Remember that performance in exams is not the only thing necessary to be successful.

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MOHAMMED KHAIR ESLAM AND SAJIB BANIK were spotted with their favourite Y Magazine in Muscat

New Debate: No Objection Certificate (NOC) has not led to an increase in Omanisation rates, according to the government body overseeing the Sultanate’s diversification plans.

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JUN 07 - 13 / ISSUE 523

09

NEWS

YOUR

OMAN

OMAN WORKING ON NEW TEMPORARY

WORK PERMITS FOR EXPATS

O

man’s government is planning to permit the recruitment of nonOmani workers under temporary employment licenses in specific specialised jobs for a set period of time.

The specified professions include medical, academic, technical, consultancy, expertise and training, according to the Implementation Support and Follow-up Unit’s annual report.

This amendment is being pursued as a measure to manage business needs requiring expatriate specialists for a limited period of time. Therefore, the aforementioned jobs will be identified and updated on a yearly basis by the Ministry of Manpower due to the demand of the labour market.

The government is also working on a structure to allow flexible movement of expatriate workers in the Sultanate to enhance labour mobility between companies registered within the same group or entity. “The long-term objective of the initiative is to unlock flexible movement of expats to help private enterprise in need of additional staff.

After amendment to the new law, a company can move an expat worker to a group company for a period of three months after notifying the Ministry of Manpower,” the report said.

NEW CENTRE TO BRING ALL JOB

SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF

O

man is set to establish its first National Centre for Employment (NCE) this year, which will unite all employment services, according to the Implementation Support and Follow-up Unit (ISFU) of Tandfeedh.

The new centre will act as a one-stop centre for job seekers, to unify employment efforts and effectively coordinate the supply and demand of job opportunities in the Sultanate.

The centre has been proposed as a major

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advancement in merging efforts and coordinate action plans, as it aims to assist the employment process between employers and job seekers, and provide support for both. The aim of the centre is to develop and integrate a job seeker classification database, in addition to providing private sector employment training in economic sectors, such as tourism, logistics and manufacturing, and monitoring the status of job seekers after accepting employment.

CHARITY

GALLERY

BANK NIZWA IN COLLABORATION WITH DAR AL ATA’A ASSOCIATION SUPPORTED AND PARTICIPATED IN A CHARITABLE EVENT HELD TO ENCOURAGE THE SPIRIT OF GIVING IN THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN

RAMADAN

C

Al Makan Cafe is famous for setting up one of the biggest Ramadan iFtar and Sohur buffets in Oman,.j with a wide selection of Soups, Salads, Hot and Cold Appetizers, Main Courses, Desserts and more…nh iFtar buffet will be available everyday during the Holly month of Ramadan at Al Seeb & Qurum Branches until 8:30pm and the A La Carte Menu (Sohur) will be available daily from 9:00pm until 2:30am.h Salalah branch will be serving a iFtar & Sohur Buffet aside to the A La Carte Menu. j Rooftop, Muscat Grand Mall 22097777 Al Seeb, Beside City Center 93965992 Shatti Al Qurum (Le Makan)j 22098888

Al Dahariz

23236673

99738158

almakan_cafe AlMakanCafeOman Al Makan Cafe JUNE 07 -13 / ISSUE 523

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YOUR

OMAN

OMAN SET TO BAN ALL PLASTIC BAGS

O

man will soon ban plastic bags from all supermarkets, according to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs.

“After studying the market and the types of bags, the decision will see the light of day soon after the final approval from the specifications and standards committee at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,” said an official at the ministry.

Earlier in the day, Mohammed bin Salim Al Toobi, Minister of Environment and Climate Affairs, told the Shura Council, “We have completed the regulation on the use of plastic bags to limit their hazards on the environment and human health, as well as the sustainability of the ecological system and biodiversity. We are waiting for the technical regulations from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.”

MAJLIS CALL TO ASSESS LOSSES FROM CYCLONE MEKUNU

A

statement on the adverse weather conditions that affected the Governorates of Dhofar and Al Wusta was made by Mohammed bin Musalam Hubais, member of the economic and financial committee of Majlis Al Shura on Monday.

Musalam Hubais called for forming a ministerial committee with broad powers to assess the losses caused by the cyclone. He called for providing wider protection for the plant cover.

The members stressed the importance of forming a ministerial committee having the necessary power to assess the losses caused by the tropical Cyclone ‘Mekunu’.

They also called for reconsidering the fees for the environmental permits, such as licences for factories.

They noted that some factories were shut down due to high fees imposed on them. They also called for full exemption of the fees for the environmental activities.

The Minister replied by saying that cancelled fees may not be considered at the current time.

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QARANQASHO

GALLERY

OMAN AVENUES MALL HOSTED FUN EVENTS FOR CHILDREN TO MARK QARANQASHO

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YOUR

ART & CRAFT

OMAN

POPULAR FASHION DESIGNER SHEIKHA SARAH AHMED FARID AL AULAQI OF FASHION HOUSE QANSAR COUTURE, HOSTED THE HANDMADE FOR RAMADAN EXHIBITION AT THE ICONIC GRAND HYATT RECENTLY

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GALLERY

JUNE 07 -13 / ISSUE 523

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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

Kaala Cast: Rajinikanth, Nana Patekar, Samuthirakani, Aruldoss, Eswari Rao, Huma Qureshi

Oman Release: Now running

Deadpool 2

The Little Witch

Cast: Davi Leitch, Brianna Hildebrand, Josh Brolin, Morena Baccarin, Ryan Reynolds, TJ Miller

Cast: Karoline Herfurth, Suzanne von Borsody, Michael Gempart, Anna Striesow and Axel Prahl The little witch really wants to dance with the other witches in the Walpurgis night, but she is only 127 years old and thus far too young for it. She tries to sneak into the party but is caught doing so, and as a punishment, she must learn all the spells from the great magical book in just one year.

This proves to be more difficult than she first thought, since there are some adversities: The evil witch Rumpumpel wants to stop her from doing so and the little witch is not very diligent. So, she tries to find easier way, along with her speaking

Bhaskar). Ten years later when these four best friends reunite, they don’t realise how much life has changed from what they expected. The film is set against the backdrop of Delhi, where the girls are born and brought up, their trials and tribulations in modern-day world, regarding family acceptance, marriage and societal perceptions.

The Indian action film written and directed by Pa. Ranjith and produced by Dhanush stars Rajinikanth in the lead role.

Kaala who runs away from Tirunelveli in his childhood, moves to Mumbai where he becomes a powerful don living in the slums of Dharavi. The film, to be released in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi, was announced in 2016. raven Abraxas, to prove herself as a good witch, and thus provides a lot of excitement in the witch world.

Oman Release: June 7

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom

Oman Release: June 7

Veere Di Wedding

After surviving a near fatal bovine attack, a disfigured cafeteria chef (Wade Wilson) struggles to fulfil his dream of becoming Mayberry’s hottest bartender while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste.

Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of sexually aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavour – finding a new taste for adventure and earning the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.

Oman Release: Running

Cast: Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Shikha Talsania

Veere Di Wedding is an upbeat comingof-age story revolving around the lives of four childhood friends Kalindi (Kareena Kapoor), Avni (Sonam Kapoor), Meera (ShikhaTalsania) and Sakshi (Swara

Cast: J.A. Bayona, Bryce Dallas Howard, Jeff Goldblum, Chris Pratt

Four years after the destruction of the Jurassic World theme park, Owen Grady and Claire Dearing return to the island of Isla Nublar to save the remaining dinosaurs from a volcano that’s about to erupt. They soon encounter terrifying new breeds of gigantic dinos while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the entire planet.

Oman Release: June 7

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N WI

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION Who is the director of Kaala?

LAST WEEK’S WINNER Kavitha Krishna

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Join today at voxcinemas.com/rewards VOX Rewards. Another reason to love VOX Cinemas.

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The colours of life.

Photography and concept by: Yamin al Balushi Makeup artist: Nawras al Malahi Face painting artist: Yousuf al Nahwi Model: Monika Hairstylist: Fatma al Balushi

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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

PREMIUM

CATEGORY

O T E D I U G D A E R T S U M G N Y’S I R U D S L A E D O T U A P THE TO H T N O M Y L O H E TH

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PREMIUM

CATEGORY

The all-new BMW M GmbH enters the high-performance sedan category for the first time. This change of track sees the M5 exploring the new dynamic dimensions and offers greater everyday practicality in all driving conditions. The new car is committed to building on the tradition of a concept – the luxurious four-door business sedan with a taste of the race track – first glimpsed in 1984 with the original BMW M5.

T

he new BMW M5 is an extremely likeable car. Handling is intuitive, communicative and confidenceinspiring – impressive for a big, heavy, extremely powerful car. The new M xDrive is the most emotionally engaging all-wheel-drive system yet to grace the high-performance segment. It works with a central transfer case with multi-plate clutch and distributes drive fully variably between the front and rear axle, as required.

FEATURES ● Carries a 4.4-litre V8 bi-turbo engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology ● The driver can choose from Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus modes for the Variable Damper Control (VDC) system –

which has M-specific tuning – and the M Servotronic steering. ● It is fitted as standard with M compound brakes, which are lighter than conventional grey cast iron items and therefore also bring down the car’s weight ● The M5 comes as standard with polished 19-inch light-alloy wheels.

Y Recommendation: The all-new BMW M5 gives a sheer driving experience and this is one car we highly recommend.

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SPECIFICATIONS BMW M5 ● ENGINE

4.4-litre V8 bi-turbo engine ● HORSEPOWER MAX OUTPUT kW/hp 441/600 ● CYLINDERS V/8/4 ● TRANSMISSION Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, transmission oil cooling ● FUEL CONSUMPTION Fuel RON 98 (min. RON 91)

Price Range: RO63,000

BMWGroup

JUN 07 - 13 / ISSUE 523

019

UP IN

SMOK With tobacco use in Oman forecast to rise to an alarming 33.3 per cent by 2025, the nation can’t seem to catch its collective breath when it comes to stubbing out. Alvin Thomas explores the projected impact of the new sin tax on tobacco use in the Sultanate, and the calls to action needed for a sustained shift in combating this fatal addiction

W

hen it comes to smoking, the road to addiction begins with one puff. Inhaling in that ‘smooth’ flavour of one of the world’s leading mass-marketed carcinogens, holding it in your lungs for as long as you can, then exhaling its deadly contrails. Then doing it again and again until, one day, that routine scan you went in for doesn’t come back clear. And your doctor is sat in front of you with a look on her face that you don’t like.

Shake hands with tobacco.

It’s a cycle and a battle that many of the world’s one billion smokers go through in the grip of an addiction that continues to be, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the world’s leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. And it’s an addiction that’s propped up by a billion-dollar industry with deep pockets whose marketing machine and global lobbyists make sure it’s in their financial interests that the global epidemic continues.

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Addiction by the numbers

More than 6.5 trillion cigarettes are sold worldwide each year. Those numbers further translate to 18 billion packs of cigarettes sold daily.

While a glimmer of hope lies in the fact that Oman remains the country with the lowest tobacco use in the GCC, it should still be noted that penetration of tobacco users is increasing by the day, with that prevalence anticipated to increase further in the coming years.

There’s more to it than just statistics though – tobacco use in the WHO-designated Eastern Mediterranean region, which also encompasses the Sultanate, is rising at an alarming rate. The region is also one of two with the fastest growing consumers of tobacco products and where the prevalence is expected to increase 25 per cent by the year 2025, compared to a decrease in other parts of Asia, America, and Europe.

A recent report published in the Oman Medical Journal highlighted that the prevalence of tobacco use among Omani men aged ≥ 15 years-old was estimated to be 17.9 per cent in 2010. This is predicted

KE

tips to help you stop smoking you stop smoking Exercise

Studies have shown that even moderate physical activity can reduce the urge to smoke.

Get support

Tell your family, friends, and colleagues about your plan to quit. A little bit of encouragement goes a long way.

Brush your teeth regularly

Brushing at regular intervals helps stave off the urge for a cigarette.

Avoid activities that trigger your desire to smoke These could include consuming fizzy drinks or eating certain types of foods.

Eat fruits and veggies right before you smoke Studies show they make cigarettes taste terrible.

to increase to 21.4 per cent, 26.9 per cent, and 33.3 per cent in 2015, 2020, and 2025, respectively, if tobacco control measures remain static.

While the figures may be the lowest in the region and half of the regional average of 36.8 per cent, it contrasts sharply compared to other countries in the region which have some of the highest prevalence globally, such as Iran (30.2 per cent), Lebanon (45.4 per cent), Bahrain (48.8 per cent), and Egypt (49.9 per cent).

The WHO states that tobacco kills up to half of its users, and seven million people each year. And, while more than six million of those deaths are due to direct tobacco use, worryingly, 890,000 (as per statistics revealed by the WHO in March 2018) die due to exposure to second-hand smoke.

Second-hand smoke, or secondary smoke, is defined as smoke that’s inhaled voluntarily or involuntarily by individuals from tobacco being consumed by people around them.

Speaking to Y, Dr. Suja Haneef, a specialist in pediatrics from the Burjeel Medical Centre in Azaiba says: “Second-hand smoke causes

numerous health problems in infants and children, including more frequent and severe asthma attacks, respiratory infections, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

“Smoking during pregnancy results in more than 1,000 infant deaths, annually,” she adds.

Another doctor we spoke with, who wishes to remain anonymous, sheds further light on the issue: “Second-hand smoke is a big problem that we now have to tackle. It isn’t just from cases where parents smoke around children anymore.

“I handle several cases, wherein people complain that they’re exposed to second-hand smoke from other colleagues at work or while they’re walking on the streets. There are strict laws governing smoking in public, but not much of it is enforced within the workplace. Most smokers consider their addiction a habit that may not affect others but, in reality, it does. Imagine being a worker who’s forced to be at a place where he or she has to – without any option – be exposed to the smoke.

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Strategies to stub out

“This is where one must take a stand and tell the individual that they’re not comfortable with smoke around them. But, because of the seniority and peer pressure, they may be forced into keeping their problem bottled in.

“Remember, when you’re being forced into second-hand smoke, you’re not the problem – they are,” he states.

Impact on health and human cost

[*Editor’s Note: Names of interviewees have been changed for privacy reasons.]

In order to understand why workplace smoking is prevalent in Oman, we spoke to several smokers who work in different companies in and around the capital.

Sumeet* a business development manager of a property firm tells Y: “I began my routine of smoking from the age of 16.

But then, after the birth of my children, I stopped for a brief period. Nevertheless, the urge to light one cigarette up was running deep, so in 2015, I began smoking again.

“I’m not entirely comfortable with talking about my smoking habits, but I may smoke – on a daily basis – eight to 10 cigarettes. This is nothing compared to what I used to consume before,” he laughs.

When asked about how his non-smoking colleagues deal with his habit, he says: “Well, I have my own cabin where I’m allowed to smoke. I make sure that I light up only inside the room and not elsewhere to prevent others from being exposed to it.

He then jokes: “Of course, this has a down side. I may have to visit my colleagues desks for reports, as they may not be comfortable walking into my cabin.”

Hamed*, an Omani entrepreneur, also classifies himself as a chain-smoker. Chain-smoking is the practice of smoking several cigarettes in succession, sometimes using the ember of a finished cigarette to light the next.

He tells: “Smoking to me is a form of stress relief. It’s just like when others crack open a bottle of spirit or go to watch movies when they’re stressed. I simply take up my lighter and burn one up when the work gets to my head.

“And, in my case, since I am running the show, I may need more than just one or two cigarettes.”

Hamed confessed to smoking more than two packets of cigarettes a day. “To reduce my nicotine intake, I’ve switched to a lighter version of the cigarette I started smoking back in 2004. My family and colleagues tell me that it isn’t any healthier, but I’m here alive and kicking.

“Moreover, if I die from lung cancer or some related disease, I will happily accept it. I always take responsibility for my actions – and most smokers do,” he proudly says, before accepting that he would have benefitted from not giving into cigarettes at a young age due to pressure from his friends in college.

To tackle this mentality towards smoking, we must understand and work towards creating awareness of the health complications caused by various carcinogenic (elements that have the potential to cause cancer) ingredients in a cigarette.

Speaking to Y, Dr. Jitendra Motavar, a specialist in Internal Medicine, at the Burjeel Medical Centre, explains: “Replacing the smoke on your face with a smile today will replace illness in your life with happiness tomorrow. Quit now.

“The true face of smoking is disease, death, and horror – not the glamour and sophistication the pushers in the tobacco industry try to portray. Smoking leaves an unseen scar; it fills your insides with toxins and tar.”

But as Dr. Haneef states, understanding this phenomenon requires education from a young age – when peer influence begins to take effect.

“Peer influence,” the doctor says, “is the most common reason that kids and teens, especially girls, start to smoke.

Kids whose friends smoke are more likely to start smoking, as it gives them a sense of belonging.

“They’re a key demographic: most people who become regular smokers start smoking in their teens,” she states.

In 2005, Oman acceded to the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, an international treaty with numerous obligations aimed at reducing the global burden of tobacco use.

This paper documents for the first time Oman’s experience in tobacco control by providing a descriptive analysis of the evolution of tobacco control policies in relation to the country’s international obligations.

Moreover, cigarette packets in Oman also explicitly showcase images of lungs and throats affected by cancer. Another move that may soon help curb the country’s tobacco use is the newly-implemented sin tax. As its name suggests, the tax will be raised on items such as tobacco products, alcohol, junk food, soft drinks and energy drinks, sometime this month.

As per the National Tobacco Control Committee (NTCC), the excise tax levied on tobacco products will be 100 per cent – meaning that a pack of cigarettes in Oman will soon cost double. Whether this move will aid in a reduction of tobacco consumers in the Sultanate will remain to be seen.

“It’s with high hopes that the move is being made – so it’s only a matter of time before we can see the results,” says Jacob*, a sales professional based in Oman. “Smoking has become the norm in the country and, somehow, remaining a non-smoker is becoming harder and less normal by the day.” ■

The true face of smoking is disease, death, and horror – not the glamour and sophistication the pushers in the tobacco industry try to portray. Smoking leaves an unseen scar; it fills your insides with toxins and tar

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Smoking during pregnancy results in more than 1,000 infant deaths, annually

8 Reasons Why It’s Never

Too Late To Butt Out 1

20 minutes after quitting your blood pressure will

2

8 hours: mCarbon monoxide levels in your

go down.

blood drops and oxygen increases to normal.

48 hours:

3

Nerve endings that affect taste and smell regenerate and your senses improve.

4

Coughing, sinus congestion, fatigue, and shortness of breath decrease.

5

1 to 9 months:

1 year: Your risk of heart disease attribute to

smoking is reduced to half that of a smoker.

5 years:

6

Your risk of stroke may decrease to that of someone who never smoked.

7

Your risk of smoking-related cancers such as lung, mouth, and throat is cut in half by 50%.

8

Your risk of heart disease and smoking-related death is now similar to that of someone who never smoked.

Source: American Lung Association

10 years: 15 years:

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WITH OUR FEET IN THE AIR AND OUR HANDS ON THE GROUND, Y CATCHES UP WITH OMANI WELLNESS COACH AND TEDX SPEAKER FAHAD AL ABRI TO EXPLORE LIFE THROUGH HIS UNIQUE UPSIDE-DOWN PERSPECTIVE. HASSAN AL LAWATI REPORTS 024

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Attempting a handstand on solid ground takes time and effort to master – not to mention a tremendous amount of patience. But giving one a go on moving water? Some say you’d have to be crazy! For Fahad Al Abri, his surfing handstand was no easy feat to master. “It took me half an hour and many funny falls to do this one,” he says with a laugh.

Oh and FYI, a four-minute handstand is his record to beat!

I

nverting his body, balancing his weight on the palms of his hands, a crowd slowly gathers around Fahad Al Abri. Drawn by his strength, control, and grace they watch. It’s not long before someone calls out – “How do you do that?”

His answer is simple, matter-of-fact: “Practice.”

As the crowd looks on, hoping for more – perhaps a tip or two on how he masters the act of turning his world upside down, the Omani wellness coach and TEDx speaker simply repeats his one-word secret for success: “Practice.”

Al Abri mastered the art of the handstand two years ago; a demonstration of physical fortitude, discipline, and agility.

“It depends on your experience and knowledge. To an average person it takes up to a year to perform a correct handstand, while it might take athletes six months to master it,” he says.

Al Abri has now embarked on a journey of teaching children and youth the art of the handstand. “It changes one’s understanding of how a person stands. As kids, we start crawling and, after countless falls, we learn how to walk,” he says, adding that handstand practice also taught him how to fall. “Pain doesn’t simply change you...it teaches you.”

By turning the world on its head, he says, it gives us a different perspective and pushes us to step outside our comfort zone.

“We don’t know how to use our hands.

But when we learn to use our minds to control our core, you can better control your hands and legs,” he explains.

Al Abri travels the world to share his ideas and passion. Currently he’s visited more than 20 cities around the globe performing handstands in scenic and historic locations.

“Whenever I do handstand, a lot of people come and take group photos, [creating] a raw human connection – energy connecting energy,” he describes.

The 31-year-old already has nearly 3,000 followers on Instagram and has been promoting tourism in Oman through his handstand images set against the backdrop of Omani landmarks.

While most of his pictures were taken in Al Mouj, where he works, he has also shared images of him poised vertically at The Royal Opera House Muscat, Muscat International Airport, and Wakan Village.

“After doing a series of outdoor handstands, people were excited to visit Oman and check out the locations,” he adds. So, what’s next for Oman’s resident handstand pro? Well, Al Abri tell us that he’d soon like to use his skill to raise funds for charity. ■

I FELL ON MY BACK, I FELL ON MY FACE, I TWISTED MY WRIST. IT WAS PAINFUL – REALLY PAINFUL - FAHAD AL ABRI @ CAVEMANGRAM

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BEYOND FOOTBALL

HASAN AL LAWATI MEETS OMANI PHOTOGRAPHER MOHAMMED AL KINDY, WHO EARNED A WORLD CUP CAMPAIGN BY NIKE, AND THE RESULTS ARE JAW-DROPPING!

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O

mani photographer and art director Mohammed Al Kindy was chosen by Nike to lead Saudi Arabia’s World Cup 2018 Photographic Campaign – the images of which are now displayed in almost every sports shop window in the Kingdom.

“This is the highest level of photography I have reached,” says Al Kindy in an exclusive interview with Y Magazine.

Not only that, he tells us that Nike Global Communications has also sent his shots to all blogs, newspapers, websites, and magazines in the sports industry for official use.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be projecting an idea from your head to the whole globe,” he says.

On the streets of Al-Balad, Jeddah, Saudi footballers posed for Al Kindy and his photography partner @Chebmoha. And from there, the green falcons will fly to Moscow to play against hosts Russia in the first match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. “I would love to [photograph] the Omani football team – in my own style, and all the athletes that are doing great things without being recognized,” Al Kindy added.

He said that organizing the shoot was hectic, “but once you start clicking you feel like you’re flying and dancing. We were doing funny pictures despite the tight schedule,” he added.

Want to give your shout-out of congrats to Mohammed Al Kindy for scoring the goal on this world-class campaign? Leave your message on our Facebook page @ytabloid and don’t forget to like and share this article – it keeps us going! ■

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THE FIFA WORLD CUP 2018:

ROAD TO RUSSIA

THE WORLD’S MOST-WATCHED SPORTS EVENT WILL KICK OFF ON JUNE 14, AND WE COULDN’T BE MORE EXCITED TO REVEL IN EVERY MINUTE OF THE ACTION. READ ON AS THE Y TEAM BRINGS YOU THE SCORE WITH OUR ALL-OUT RUSSIA 2018 PREVIEW!

Mascot

Important news

The charming Siberian wolf Zabivaka™ will be the official mascot of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The tradition of World Cup mascots dates back to the proud lion cub Willie who made his début at the 1966 competition in England. At every tournament since, the role of the mascot has steadily become more important, and they’re now an essential part of the spectacle, delighting fans young and old alike.

Egypt star Mohamed Salah drops exciting Twitter update

Flagship stadium Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium has swelled its capacity to 80,000 after a four-year period and will host seven World Cup matches including the opening match and the final.

It’s located in one of the most picturesque areas of the Russian capital as part of a wider Olympic complex bearing the same name that spreads over 180 hectares.

The Moskva River flows right alongside the stadium which fans and athletes can cross using a cable-car!

Official song ‘Live It Up’ by Nicky Jam, featuring Will Smith and Era Istrefi is blowing up the global airwaves, and will fill the stadiums around Russia with a lively atmosphere to bring fans together.

Fans at the final on July 15 can also look forward to being treated to a live rendition of the song with a star-studded performance at the closing ceremony.

Fashion Iconic French fashion label Louis Vuitton has announced three unique projects to celebrate the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. The fashion house was commissioned once again to make a special case that will hold the official FIFA World Cup Trophy.

They’ve been making sure the trophy travels safe and in style since 2010.

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Football’s most popular current star Tweeted this positive pic on June 3, hinting that he’s on the road to recovery after suffering a shoulder injury at the hands of Spain’s Sergio Ramos in the Champions League final. Drafted to the Egyptian national team for the World Cup, Salah is showing no signs of backing down!

Predict scores Through FIFA’s official website, bracketchallenge.fifa. com, you can take a stab at predicting the group stage results and knockout matches for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. And the best part? Compete with friends to earn points and win prizes!

Fantasy football?

Jersey style

Here are our top suggestions for your defending line:

Who said athletes can’t be stylish in action? Nike and Puma have come up with some amazing kit for the World Cup 2018 teams, but we think German brand Adidas has outsmarted them both with their classicallydesigned jerseys. Here are our top four:

Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris He isn’t the best goalie taking part in the tournament, but we think he might enjoy more clean sheets than any other goalkeeper thanks to his defensive duet with Samuel Umtiti and Raphaël Varane.

Left Back: Jordi Alba (Expect assists and clean sheets) The 29-year-old left back assisted Barca strikers eight times in the Spanish La Liga and is expected to do the same in the World Cup 2018 – especially given that David De Gea will ensure a rock-built goal-post.

Centre Back: Diego Godin (Expect clean sheets) We believe Atlético Madrid’s captain and defender has what it takes to keep attackers away from Uruguay’s goalkeeper.

Centre Back: Thiago Silva (Expect goals and clean sheets) An expert defender with great physical attributes, it’s time for Silva to get over the 7-1 defeat to Germany in 2014 and push Brazil to reach the World Cup final again.

Right Back: Joshua Kimmich (Expect goals and assists) At only 23, the young German created 13 goals this season for Bayern Munich. His strengths?

Kimmich can switch positions and can even play as a center mid-fielder.

1. Germany (Away)

The FIFA champions want to make sure they’ll lift the trophy again in style. Their eye-catching green away kit has awed fans around the world – enough that we think Germany deserves a Fashion World Cup this year!

2. Argentina (Home)

Pale in colour, with the Adidas stripes back on the shoulders, it looks ancient – reminding us of the team’s good old days.

Is it too daring? Too much of a throwback?

You can either love it or hate it.

3. Japan (Away)

Simple, sharp, and fancy.

Adidas made it up to the Japanese national team with their away jerseys, after screwing up their home kit design.

4. Colombia (Away)

Inspired by their orange kits of the ’70s and ’80s, Colombia will sport a different contrast of colours that will definitely stand out on the pitch.

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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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Adventures

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Cars

Y- F i

Gaming

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL

The all-new Porsche 718 Boxster S is strong and stylish – 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

JABAL AKHDAR

SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI HITS THE ROAD WITH FRIENDS FOR A CAMPING TRIP AND GETS TO A PERFECT SPOT TO PITCH TENT, LIGHT A FIRE AND CHAT WITH THE STARS 032

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W

e are truly blessed when it comes to outdoor destinations near the place where we stay, be it Qurum or Seeb, load our vehicles with stuff needed for overnight camping and head to the site in the company of a few others who share the same vibes.

The idea of pitching tent, lighting a campfire and cooking your favourite food being curiously watched by twinkling stars and then lying on your back and trying to chat with the shiny things up in the sky who play a game of hide and seek — visible now and gone then as the clouds drift — is incredibly tempting.

It’s a splendid way to get to know nature better, but commitments often stop us from enjoying many of the real pleasures of life as we pursue priorities of a different kind.

Like many others, it has been a while since I went on a group camping trip, so I was happy to grab an opportunity to do that last week.

I left home in the afternoon with a bunch of friends looking for a new camping site in Jabal Akdhar.

Since we were fasting, we decided to stop by a hypermarket to buy Mandi, a traditional Yemeni dish made of rice and meat. This was our dinner.

On our way, thanks to the heat, we did not pay attention

to the speed limit — and were promptly stopped by a Royal Oman Police patrol. Two out of our three cars were slapped with a fine. That did not drain our spirits though: we kept driving, of course slowly, to reach the destination which was two-hours from my home in Al Seeb.

The place was gorgeous, and it was hard not to take a good photo in that location.

We set our camp near Sayq, a village that nestles between Al Dakhiliyah and South Al Batinah Governorates.

Upon hearing the Isha Azan (prayer call) we had a light iftar. During that time we met a group of people who asked if we can give them somße sugar to make tea. This reminded of my old days in Al Amerat when neighbours were knocking on the doors to ask people if they needed any commodities for iftar.

We fell in love with the place and the generous people living around the campsite. They never hesitated to offer us food and drinks throughout the night.

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FIRST DRIVE

CARS ADVENTURES

T

P O R S C H E 7 1 8 B OX S T E R S

Strong engines, sharp handling and menacing with its redesigned headlamps and bumpers, the true-bred sports car gives supercars a run for their money. Alvin Thomas gets to the soul of seven-eighteen

here was a time when the word ‘turbo’ meant fast and powerful – and, to me, that was all I would ever need in a car. Today, its meaning has shifted slightly to indicate vehicle efficiency – lowering fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. So, when I was taking the keys to Porsche’s latest (and first) turbo-charged iteration of the Boxster – the 718 Boxster S – I was none too skeptical.

Growing up, I’d come to adore the Boxster – its sports car pedigree and throaty exhaust note produced by an in-line six-cylinder engine was simply glorious. Now, Porsche claims their choice to go the turbo-charging route is not only to maximize efficiency, but also to kick dust on their predecessors.

So, have they done that? Let’s find out.

Form meets function Before we delve into the drive, let’s begin with the look of the 718 Boxster S. From the outside, for the first time ever, the new model looks truly unique.

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Granted, it’s still as distinctive as a Porsche, but with its newly redesigned 918-esque headlamps with the embedded LED-light patterns and re-designed bumpers, the 718 Boxster S looks nothing short of menacing.

My test car, which was finished in yellow, was particularly striking to look at, and even more eyecatching when on the move – especially with the electrically-operated soft-top stored in the boot.

Inside, the 718 is reminiscent of the Macan we tested a while back, which is a good thing. It’s got comfortable sport-bucket seats and soft-touch materials all around the cabin, padded in leather.

Surprisingly, the car is quite spacious – for both driver and passenger – and there’s enough leg- and head-room for both. Unlike most sports cars, it’s also easy to get in and out of.

The soul of the 718 Boxster S is its 2.5-litre turbo-charged four-cylinder motor, which is placed bang in the middle of the car and pumps out an astonishing 350hp and 420Nm of torque. Yes, Porsche’s decision to drop two cylinders may have left Porsche purists begging for the old flat-six screamer from 2012, but this engine is more about purpose than show, as it knocks-out the old engine by 40-odd horsepower.

All of this, along with the PDK transmission

Destination

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

Y- F i

Gaming

CARS

PORSCHE BOXSTER S Specifications: • Engine: 2.5-litre turbocharged flat four-cylinder • Transmission: Seven-speed “PDK” auto-manual • Horsepower: 350hp • Torque: 420Nm Rear-wheel drive ESC and Traction Control Retractable fabric roof HID headlights Bose audio system Sport Chrono package

IT’S A TRUE-BRED FULLON SPORTS CAR, WHICH CAN UNSETTLE ALL ITS EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN RIVALS, AND THEN GO ON TO GIVE SUPERCARS A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY ON THE TRACK

and sports chrono package, allowed me to charge from 0-100kph in just 4.5 seconds! The gearshifts are extremely smooth (again, surprisingly), even when you take control of them manually.

There’s a sense of urgency in the shifts, even when you let the car take control of things – but at no point does the power and torque feel like a handful, thanks to the brilliant electronic nannies that work hard to keep you

from going into a tank-slapper (awkward drift).

Sporty Speed Because the Porsche 718 Boxster S is a mid-engine sports car, the chassis is quite stiff and well-sorted, even though there’s no metal roof that provides additional rigidity. Therefore, you can take corners like a real racing driver (even if you’re an ox, like me). The steering, even though it’s electric, really manages to communicate with you, as if it were actually a real hydraulic setup.

With all of this, you can take corners at extraordinary speeds. Things are kept a bit mellow – but sharp – if you keep

the car in ‘O’ (normal) mode. Switching into ‘S’ (Sport) and ‘S+’ (Sport Plus) sharpens things up even further. I’m guessing that this also relaxes the traction and electronic stability controls, because, now, the car turns into an absolute animal.

Doing this stiffens up the suspension and quickens the steering, gearshift, and throttle response to help you make the most out of the power and torque at any given moment.

The handling in ‘S+’ is absolutely phenomenal. The car takes sharp and tight corners flat, with no understeer or tire squeal whatsoever. Of course, if you’re planning on unsettling the car, you can poke it with a stick (by giving more throttle). Doing this lets you drift into corners like nothing else out there.

Even then, the steering is incredibly precise, and there’s no chance of you messing up and ending up in an embarrassing spin or a cloud of your own dust. If things do get a bit out of hand, the clever traction control will sort things out for you.

Drifting in the Boxster S is still a very civilized affair; there’s none of that tire smoking and donut-making drama like you find on American muscle cars.

Also included in the car was a ‘Sport Response’ button, which kicks up the turbo-charger for an added boost for a period of 20 seconds. This could be useful on the track if you plan on racing your machine. To be completely honest, I didn’t require it because there’s always plenty of power on-tap. If you take control of the gearshifts manually, you also eliminate the possibility of any turbolag. Unlike most turbocharged vehicles, the engine also screams onto 7,000rpm.

I still remember there was a time people saw the 718 Boxster S as a toned-down version of the bigger and beefier 911. But in truth, this car is nothing like the 911. It’s a true-bred full-on sports car, which can unsettle all its European and American rivals, and go on to give super-cars a run for their money on the track.

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CARS ADVENTURES WONDERFUL WARSAW

Warsaw is one of Europe’s most dynamic metropolitan cities and a leading tourist destination

1. Take a nostalgic journey to Dollhouse Museum 2. Walk alongside the Vistual river 3. Sample Wedel the best chocolate in Poland 4. Journey through the Copernicus Science Centre 5. Visit the artistic neighbourhood of Praga

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Destination

Cars

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Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

Nirmal Raj recommends

WARSAW A

ttractive coastal beaches, sand dunes, glaciercarved lake districts, desert, stunning mountains, splendid forests and lowlands Poland has everything. Since Europe’s geographical centre is near Warsaw, you can discover Poland by starting from its capital city.

Warsaw offers an assortment of tourist attractions. Considered one of Europe’s most dynamic metropolitan cities, Warsaw is a leading tourist destination and an important cultural, political and economic hub. The largest city in the country, Warsaw stands on the Vistula river in east-central Poland.

A must-see on any visit to Warsaw has to be the historical Old Town, designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1980. The longest river in Poland, the Vistula winds its way from the Beskidy mountains of southern Poland through Krakow and Warsaw and up the bay in Gdansk to the Baltic Sea. Considered the only wild river in all the European capital cities, it would be a good idea to discover Warsaw from the river’s perspective. It is easy to reach the riverfront on foot from many of the central attractions.

If you are a music lover you must explore the music of Frederic Chopin, Poland’s famous composer. While strolling through the capital area, you will observe there are many black benches with buttons on them. Just press the buttons at any time and these benches will play the music of Chopin. Chopin concerts are held often in locations throughout Warsaw, including at the music centre on Nowy Swiat, which hosts Chopin concerts almost every night. The Chopin Museum on Okolnik Street will give you complete insight into the man.

Almost half the area of the city is green and there are at least 95 parks with -azienki heading the list. Lazienki has a superb central lake with its own palace on the water, an amphitheatre, stately residences, an orangery and free Chopin concerts during the summer.

Warsaw has an interesting calendar of musical, cultural and sports events.

Festivals, star concerts and outdoor exhibitions take place during the year and in fact 2018 will be commemorated by the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Poland regaining independence. The conclusion of the year-long celebration will be November’s Great Warsaw Polonaise when residents and tourists will be invited to dance.

While the Copernicus Science Centre is a real treat for science lovers, the Warsaw Zoo has several thousand different animal species. Warsaw Dollhouse Museum has an impressive collection of over 100 different dollhouses and other exhibits, and at Museum for Children at the State Etnographic Museum kids could dress up in traditional costumes, touch and play with artefacts and create their own.

Warsaw cuisine is like the town: diverse, multicultural, delectable and full of energy.

Along with main dishes remember to try local desserts like W-Z cake, zygmuntówka, or organic ice cream.

It’s best to visit the city from April to June and September to October.

L A Z IE

NKI OR ROYAL BATHS PARK

H OO D N E IG H B OU R A R T IS T IC OF P R A G A

My favourite place The Vistula Boulevards are the perfect place for a walk or a bicycle trip. The distinctive atmosphere of this place is fashioned by the sail-shaped lamp posts and pergolas that offer shade on sunny days.

Highlights

The Royal Route links three former residences of Polish rulers: The Royal Castle, ŁazienkiKrolewskie and Wilanow Palace. It is the city’s most famed route

Lowlights If you are used to warm and mild weather, cold winter days could be difficult in Warsaw.

Souvenirs Warsaw offers a nice selection of amber items, ranging from small rings to the finest jewellery pieces or

sculptures. Pick up Wedel, Poland’s biggest and oldest confectionery brand, or a guarding angel, a traditional folk sculpture made of clay, glass, paper, wood or salt dough. Linen clothes, ceramics, postcards, neon art are other souvenirs you can buy.

Getting there From Muscat, travellers can take convenient connecting flights via Dubai, Munich or Doha. Flying time from Muscat is 8 hours and 55 minutes, including stopovers.

Where to stay Every hotel category is represented here and is ideally located. It is advisable to make the bookings

P O L IS H TRAD CHOCO IT IO N A L LATE WUZE P IE K N TKA C OWN A REAM LSO A S WZ CAKE

online before you get there.

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Destination

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

THE COOLEST CAR GADGETS YOU CAN BUY ONLINE When it comes to hitting the road in style, safety should always come first. Here’s our YiFi roundup of the top new tools that will help you transform your daily commute!

ZTYLUS STINGER USB EMERGENCY ESCAPE TOOL This multifunctional emergency tool comes with a springloaded window punch that works easily and quickly to give you the best chance for escaping your vehicle in the event of an emergency.

The Stinger, however, will only break tempered glass – it’s not designed to break windshields or laminated glass.

It also comes with a razor-sharp blade to help you cut your seatbelt if you find yourself unable to release it normally.

Buy it from Amazon for RO5.8

HANDPRESSO AUTO CAPSULE Are you a coffeeholic? This device is a perfect fit inside your vehicle, as it plugs into the 12/24 volt-socket and can sit in the cup-holder. With just the right digital touch, it can prepare a prefect espresso in less than two minutes. Perfect for long road trips!

Buy it for RO88 from handpresso.com

TILE MATE

EDITOR’S PICK

Have you ever yelled “Where are my car keys?” while accusing family members of pilfering them…then, discovering 5 minutes later that you left them on your bed? Then this is the gadget for you!

Bluetooth tracker Tile Mate loops onto keychains or attaches to anything you don’t want to lose so you can find it fast and avoid those unpleasant arguments amid the morning rush. You can also use a smartphone to make your Tile Mate ring when it’s near the lost object. Buy it from Amazon for RO7.7

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STANLEY PORTABLE CAR JUMP STARTER

THIS LIFE-SAVING MACHINE CAN BE USED WHENEVER YOUR CAR BATTERY DECIDES TO GIVE UP ON YOU! CAR BATTERIES IN OMAN TEND TO HAVE A SHORTER LIFE-SPAN DUE TO THE HEAT, AND THIS PORTABLE CAR JUMP STARTER CAN REVIVE IT – TEMPORARILY, SAVING YOU THE NEED TO RING FOR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. BUY IT FROM AMAZON FOR RO35

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

IFTAR LOOK

We are mid way into the holy month of Ramadan and it is also the season of iftar parties. If you are still thinking of something different to wear that will impress, like this glittering black full-length dress from Vera Mont, then look no further

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

k o o L e h

aran K e tin hris C , t ry tree esto s o h h g s e hi rmy h a t e o t H end e look. ram h g g hi th the to get n Insta m Fro s you tine o is help w Chr o Foll

T t Ge

It’s not every day you can wear an elaborate floral dress. However, iftar parties are to celebrate the season as well as to talk fashion. If you have fallen in love this dress just like us, then grab it from M&S for RO45.

For those who want to make a bold fashion statement this Ramadan season, then this dress is for you. The eye-catching black-andwhite floral dress with contrasting stripes is sure to turn heads.

Shop this from H&M for RO21.

Ever wondered if a secret message could be hidden in a dress?

This black chiffon dress from H&M with statement details is an absolute favourite for us.

Shop this for RO33.

Simple, bold and stylish, this transparent stone earring is a stunning accessory to don with any attire. We are in love with this, are you? If so shop this from ZARA for RO9.

If you are opting for a simpler look for the evening, then you should get this linen sandal dress from ZARA. With perfect cut and a belt at the waist, the dress hugs the body and keeps the look cute. Buy it for RO30.

It’s universal: when in doubt wear black. These simple, yet fashion-edgy, high-heel black sandals are perfect with any dress you wear. Buy them from ZARA for RO20.

Giving us all the ‘Versace’ vibes, this printed shirt dress from New Look is for a woman who wants to make a fashion statement during iftar parties. Shop this for RO15.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

FAMILY

Fashion

Home

Beauty

HACKS FOR A GREAT WEEK Many people feel that they are perennially short of time — but it may be because they are not utilising time the best possible way. Try out these tricks for a productive week ahead

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f there is an option for you to get an extra two minutes of productivity a day, you will get an hour a month and 12 hours a year.

So, the two minutes is a big deal!

Have you thought of getting done the routine things at a faster pace? This gives you time to do things you love to do like gardening, going for a walk, etc. You can control things by organising time JUN 07 - 13 / ISSUE 523

and getting things done on time, and this helps you to handle unexpected things too.

At the weekend, write out the whole of your upcoming week.

Writing helps your brain register how your week is going to be.

Keep things for the next day ready the previous night. Jot down the list of people you need to call or message so you don’t miss out on any.

Make sure you buy all your food needs at the weekend. Separate every item neatly in baggage or trays so it’s easier for you when you are in a hurry. Keep your cash ready for that week.

Do all your laundry work at the weekend. Make sure you go through your notes and fill up the medical dispensers. And yes, you charge your electronic devices as soon as you wake up in the morning.

Try these hacks and make your life smoother and simpler.

Health

BEAUTY

Fashion

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Family

Glow with

TOMATO

The cute and juicy vegetable that gives a tangy punch to your dishes could make your skin glow — you just need to know how to whip it up into a healing potion, says Gayathri Das

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omatoes are consumed by us daily in different ways. We love the tangy taste in our foods but how many of us use this wonder vegetable for skin care. Surprised? You heard it right. Tomatoes do wonders on skin. You can ditch all your expensive bleach and whitening creams for tomatoes. Interesting, right? Here are a few ways you can use tomatoes for your skin.

Scrub Cut a tomato into halves and dip one half in sugar and honey and scrub your skin with it.

This removes your dead skin naturally.

Face pack You can have a glowing skin without using any fairness cream. Take a ripe tomato and cut it into halves. Take one half and dip it in turmeric powder and rub this all over your face and neck. Make sure you keep squeezing the tomato.

Rice powder and turmeric skin whitening treatment Take a fresh tomato and cut it into halves

and put powdered sugar on one half and rub your face with it for 5 to 10 minutes and wash it off. The natural bleaching agent in tomato lightens your skin. For the second step, take two tablespoons of rice powder and mix it with twoto-three tablespoons of milk and make a paste.

Apply this on your skin and wash it out once it dries.

Tomato lemon ice cube Cut a tomato into small pieces and grind them to a fine paste and squeeze out the juice.

Similarly, cut a cucumber and blend them in a mixer into a fine paste and get the juice. Mix the tomato juice and cucumber juice and add one tablespoon of lime juice and one teaspoon of honey to it. Pour this into your ice cube tray and place it in the freezer. Once frozen, take out a cube and rub it gently on your face and body. The cube, now rich in vitamin C known to brighten the skin, removes tan, blemishes, acne or acne marks.

Tomato acts as a natural sunscreen. It protects skin from harsh UV rays, helps your skin absorb oxygen, remove dead skin and make your skin look younger and fresher.

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&

FOOD DRINK

DATE WITH DATES

Dates are a treasure trove of amazing health benefits and a potential cure for issues such as constipation and anaemia.

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Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

Dates cake

DATE WITH

taste

Oddly wrinkled, they don’t appear particularly appealing — but pop a couple of them into your mouth and you will be craving more. Gayatri Das experiments with delicious dates

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asily digested and rich in minerals, vitamins and phytonutrients, dates are a treasure trove of amazing health benefits and a potential cure for issues such as constipation and anaemia. The lush, chewy texture and the rich, deep flavour are irresistible. There are many ways to have them: fresh or dried, plain or with dishes. You could also soak a few of them in water overnight and drink the water in the morning.

Ingredients § 500g seedless dates § 1 cup of water § 100g sugar, powdered § 125g butter § 2 eggs § 1 ½ cup self-rising flour § 2 tsp vanilla essence § 1 tsp bicarb

Method: § Cook the dates, sugar, butter and water on a pan over a low heat till it reaches boiling point. Switch off the stove and add the bicarb and mix well. The bicarb breaks down the dates. Let the mixture cool. Beat the eggs and add to the mixture. Add the vanilla essence and flour and mix well.

Transfer this into a greased cake tray. Bake it for around 40 minutes at 180°C. When you insert a skewer, it should come out neat. Enjoy the healthy, delicious cake.

Dates Milk Shake This is one of the healthiest milkshakes.

Kids are going to love it and parents can be happy about the nutrition their children will have.

This is a special Ramadan drink too.

Ingredients § 3 cups of milk § 250g semidried dates § 1 tsp cinnamon powder § A handful of mixed nuts Method: § Mix the seedless dates, cinnamon and milk and

let this soak for an hour.

Then blend it well and use a strainer to remove the dates peel. Garnish the shake with mixed nuts and serve it cold.

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FOOD DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

REVIEWS

Info Box

BAKERY AND BBQ

Qurum Gardens Complex Opening hours: 9 ‫ ‏‬am to 11pm Contact: 9 ‫ ‏‬5618461 Dinner for two: RO9.5

MIDGE RAN

BAKERY AND BBQ

Verdict : 7/10 SERVICE 7/10 FOOD 8/10 AMBIENCE Serving authentic Lebanese dishes.

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

THE STAFF NEED TO BE MORE COMMUNICATIVE, THE MENU COULD HAVE A BIT OF DESCRIPTION AND THE EGGS FOURNO NEEDN’T BE SO CHEESY. TEAM Y RELISHES THE EVENING OTHERWISE, SEASONED WITH THE TAOUK SANDWICH AND AWESOME PICKLE

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n a Ramadan evening we walked into Bakery and BBQ , a Lebanese restaurant located at the Qurum Gardens Complex. The brightly lit eatery has red brick walls with wooden tables and blue-coloured chairs. A couple of huge black and white photos adorn the wall depicting the old charm of Lebanon.

The menu consisted of appetisers, fourno, salads, pizza, sandwiches, BBQ platter, pancakes, milkshakes and fresh juices. Out of curiosity we checked with the restaurant staff to understand that fourno dishes are cooked in traditional earthenware dish. Since it was Ramadan, they claimed some dishes like shawarma were not available as the staff were on leave.

We ordered taouk sandwich, eggs with cheese fourno, mix grill BBQ platter and sweet melon juice. The taouk sandwich was succulent with the right amount of pickle stuffed inside the soft qubs bread. We were so enamoured by the pickle that the extra servings along with the sandwich vanished in no time.

Since we don’t eat red meat, we asked them to

BASICALLY, WHETHER YOU ARE A VEGETARIAN OR A NON-VEGETARIAN, THERE’S A DELICIOUS PLATE OUT THERE WAITING FOR YOU

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

limit mix grill BBQ platter to chicken. The platter had two types of chicken, hummus, pickle, two dips, French fries and fluffy qubs bread. The grilled chicken was ordinary with no flavours whatsoever.

We have had better chicken grills in Lebanese restaurants in Muscat. Eggs with cheese fourno, the dish we ordered out of curiosity, was too cheesy for our liking. The sweet melon juice was average.

Basically, whether you are a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, there’s a delicious plate out there waiting for you. Among the appetisers served are foul medammes, labneh with garlic, mutabal and cheese nachos. Under the earthenware fourno, the eatery serves eggs with awarma, tagliatelle 046

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carbonara, tagliatelle alfredo and bolognese, among other dishes. Salads include noodles and crab, halloumi shawarma salad, chicken ceaser salad and Greek salad.

The restaurant serves a variety of pizzas, including trio formaggi and vegetarian and goat cheese pesto. Interesting sandwiches like sujuk liver and tareb find a mention on the menu. There are plenty of options in the B&B BBQ platters section. An assortment of crepes, pancakes, fruit skewers, milk shakes, fruit juices is also available.

The wooden tables and chairs look good but are not very comfortable. If the restaurant staff were more communicative, we could have tried more items on the menu. Also, the printed menu doesn’t come with description of dishes – all the more reasons for the staff to explain the dish in detail to the diners.

All said and done, the restaurant menu looked interesting. We have decided to visit the restaurant soon to dig into shawarma and pasta.

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