Y Magazine #581, August 21, 2019

Coffee with Y

UPHOLDING THE VALUES OF OMANI HEALTHCARE Winging it WHY DHOFAR IS GOING TO THE BIRDS!

MALL OF OMAN DEVELOPMENT 8 News: ON-TRACK FOR 2021 OPENING

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DESTINATION: Wadi Hatta TASTE TEST: Plates (From Around The World) YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK

AUG 22 - 28 2019 / ISSUE 581 • WEEKLY

PLUS!

GAMING CULTURE HAS SUNK ITS HOOKS INTO THE SULTANATE’S MILLENNIAL POPULATION, AND AS THIS ‘CONSOLE GENERATION’ COMES OF AGE, THEY’RE NOT READY TO GIVE UP THE CONTROLLERS JUST YET. Y EXPLORES HOW TWO DECADES OF VIRTUAL REALITY HAVE BUILT A LOCAL GAMING COMMUNITY WITH ITS SIGHTS SET ON THE INTERNATIONAL ESPORTS ARENA.

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Y BEAUTY: SUMMER NAILS THAT SIZZLE!

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YUMMY OMAN: A SUBCONTINENT OF FLAVOUR

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EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

IN THIS ISSUE…

I

f you can remember the days when video games consisted of eight-bit versions of Super Mario and Donkey Kong and when the Final Fantasy and Legend of Zelda franchises were trailblazers paving the way for a new kind of gaming experience – then we can probably guess your age. But these were the golden years of gaming, when hand-held consoles such as the GameBoy and first-person perspective RPGs such as Goldeneye revolutionized the industry in the first wave of the mass gaming culture that engulfed us during the 90s.

The second wave came with the advent of online gaming, when the concept of multiplayer mode extended beyond your living room and console expansion pack and into the internet ether and, subsequently, all corners of the globe – signaling to the masses that gaming culture was here to stay. But whether you see gaming as an addiction or a career, one thing is certain: its concept and definition has evolved over the years.

With millions of children and youth having access to digital gaming – be it through consoles, smartphones, or PCs – not only are we seeing a change in the mediums adopted to play games, we’re also seeing significant changes in the way kids and adults consume them too. While this has resulted in the formation of a gaming community here in Oman, we speak to experts in this field – some of whom are long-time professional gamers – to learn about the positive and negative effects of gaming among youth in Oman over the last decade, the impact it can have on their lives, its cultural implications, and how the scene is set to progress in the years ahead.

Also in this issue, we’re hitting the blacktop on a road-trip to the far corners of the Sultanate – right on the border with the UAE – on an excursion to Wadi Hatta in our Destination pages, then soaring with the birds all the way to Dhofar in our Features section to bring you a colourful look at some of the unique bird-life the Sultanate is famous for, and to celebrate the recent independence days of India and Pakistan, we’re rounding up some recipes in Yummy Oman that showcase the best of both nations’ cuisine!

Until next week, happy reading!

Team Y EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi ADMIN MANAGER Yousef al Harrassi REPORTER Hassan al Lawati

FOLLOW US ON:

@ytabloid /ytabloid

PHOTOGRAPHER Ismail Al Farsi DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan MANAGER – DIGITAL MEDIA SALES Umair Mehmood

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Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing & Advertising LLC / Y is a SABCO Media product.

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Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman.

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contents AUG

Your Oman 08 News Oman inaugurates first wind farm project 08 News Mall of Oman on-track for 2021 opening

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28

2019

This Week 07 Summer camp

for kids Let your little ones unleash their inner tech genius at the Robotics & Coding Summer Camp 2019!

11 Movies Quentin Tarantino takes viewers to the Los Angeles of the swinging 60s in the star-studded ‘Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood’ starring Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio.

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11

Cars and Adventures 22 Destination

Wadi Hatta 24 First Drive

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

Quadrifoglio, Part 2 28 Y-Fi

The latest in

home-security tech

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Health and Beauty 30 Fashion Lavender blue 29 Beauty Sizzling summer nails

Features 12 Game on As more young gamers in Oman opt to invest full-time in taking their Esports careers to the next level, we’re examining the impact gaming has had on the Sultanate’s console generation’.

16 Bill of health Coffee with Y sits down with Starcare Group CEO and Co-Founder Nasser Batha, to learn how the healthcare provider is changing the way we access health services in Oman through an integrated approach to connecting with patients.

18 Winging it Dhofar is going to the birds this khareef season – literally! With more than 100 temporary species making the governorate their stopover along migration routes, we take you bird-watching in this ornithologist’s paradise!

Food and Drink 32 Yummy Oman

A subcontinent of flavour 34 Taste Test

Plates (From Around

The World)

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32 NEXT ISSUE...

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

brity ch and the latest celeve got at w to ts tis ar e th e’ From e hits of the week, w gossip to your ultimat from the pulse of the music your superstar dose Radio Oman 100.9 FM world, with Virgin

Hart times ‘Forbes’ has just released its list of the highest-paid stand-up comedians and perennial funny-man Kevin Hart has landed at the top. The star of ‘Jumanji’, ‘Central Intelligence’, and ‘The Upside’ saw the actor earning $59 million USD between June 1, 2018 and June 1, 2019 – not counting his loads of sponsorship deals, countless Netflix specials and global stadium tours.

Other top comedians rounding out this year’s list include Jerry Seinfeld who raked in $41 million USD, Jim Gaffigan who took in $30 million, and Trevor Noah, who clocked a cool $28 million. It seems it pays to have a sense of humour!

Ed’s gone red?!

Full disclosure – Ed Sheeran loves ketchup.

Maybe this isn’t such breaking news, but fans of the guitar hero will be pleased to learn that Ed’s just inked a deal with Heinz to design a series of limited-edition ketchup bottles. The line of 150 bottles will be called ‘Tattoo’ with designs reflecting Ed’s very own ink in a collaboration that marks the Heinz brand’s 150th birthday.

The going rate thus far on just one bottle designed by Ed? $1,816 USD is what one fan paid!

To all the sequels to come…

Last year’s smash 2018 box-office hit ‘To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before’ was the teen rom-com film we didn’t know we needed. And now, as if we weren’t shipping stars Lana Condor and Noah Centineo enough, it’s just been announced that not one, but two sequels are in the works to be released on Netflix.

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The first, ‘To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before: PS I Still Love You’ will be released on February 12, 2020, while the third instalment, “To All The Boys Always and Forever, Lara Jean’ is currently in production. Squeeeeeee!

Always a bridesmaid… ….And now she’s the bride! ‘Bridesmaids’ star Kristen Wiig will soon hear her own wedding bells ringing as actress and comedian revealed her engagement to long-time beau Avi Rothman.

Though they’ve kept their relationship on the downlow and out of the public eye as much as possible, Kristen’s been rocking her engagement ring since May. Congrats to the happy couple!

Just in ‘TIME’ Lil Nas X has had a huge few months.

After bursting onto the scene with his hit track ‘Old Town Road’ which remained number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for more than 22 weeks, the young rapper has been nominated for multiple awards and has been on the performance circuit like crazy lately. Now, he’s about to add another notch to his musical belt by being featured on this month’s cover of ‘TIME Magazine. Speaking to the publication about his struggles breaking into the industry he said: “I was doing radio tours and one guy said, ‘I love the song, but I don’t think I’ll play it.” Guess he proved him wrong!

Don’t cross Charli Charli XCX is out with a new track called ‘Cross You Out’, with Sky Ferreira.

Rising to fame on the airwaves with hits like ‘1999’, and ‘Fancy’ with Iggy Azalea, Charli will release her new self-titled album on September 13 – which will feature ‘Cross You Out’ along with 15 other tracks including ‘Blame It On Your Love’, featuring Lizzo, and other guest appearances by the likes of BTS and Christine and the Queens.

Normani on the rise Normani has just dropped her new single called ‘Motivation’ and already fans can’t get enough. We know the talented songstress from when she was part of the girl group Fifth Harmony and, more recently, from her collaboration with Sam Smith on his track ‘Dancing With A Stranger’. Now, with her latest single, Normani is cementing herself firmly on the music scene as a solo artist – this is her first non-collaboration solo since Fifth Harmony went on hiatus. It’s a catchy track that features a writing credit from Ariana Grande, and the music video serves up some serious 90s vibes. Normani’s powerful vocals are fully on display here – and we’re lovin’ it!

Miley’s breakup anthem?

Miley Cyrus has just released a new track called ‘Slide Away’ which alludes to her recent breakup from hubby Liam Hemsworth after just one short year of marriage. The song alludes to their split and is an introspective, melancholic bop. If there’s any place for Miley to let all her emotions hang out – it’s most definitely through her music, and ‘Slide Away’ doesn’t disappoint.

Be sure to keep it locked to Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM, and don’t miss your Tea Time with Maya Noise, daily on Chad in the Morning.

CODING FOR KIDS

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE A’Soud Global School is hosting a Robotics & Coding Summer Camp for kids in Seeb. The two-week long camp will aim at building technological literacy among children, while unleashing their creativity and improving their cognitive skills of logical and analytical thinking. During the camp, kids will be introduced to various tools from 3D designing to coding a mobile app and also have a chance to apply their skills to use them.

The camp will be held five days a week and parents can call (+968) 9611-1751 to enroll their child.

Until August 29

WEEKEND SPLASH

August

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We can’t think of a better way to spend the weekend than beating the heat poolside. Sure to keep the whole family happy, you can head over to the Kempinski Hotel Muscat for their Friday ‘Plunge & Indulge’ promotion. Welcome the summer with refreshing Fridays by the infinity pool and treat yourself and your family to an endless, multi-cuisine buffet at The Kitchen restaurant. Held from 1:00 p.m. till 4:30 p.m., the price is RO28 inclusive of beach and main pool access. It also includes complimentary access to Dippy’s Clubhouse for kids, and children between the ages of six- to 12-year-old dine for half-price, while children under the age of six dine for free. For reservations and to book call (+968) 2498-6000.

A TASTE OF INDIA THIS

WEEK

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

A U G U S T Travel the subcontinent with your taste-buds at the Hormuz Grand Muscat – A Radisson Collection Hotel’s award-winning Qureshi Bab-Al-Hind restaurant.

Their Saturday Incredible Indian brunch is offering up some of the best regional cuisines that will allow diners to discover their favourite dishes that open up a world of flavour. Prices start at RO15 per person for all-you-can-eat and the brunch runs from 12 noon until 3:00 p.m. To book your table call (+968) 9952-9741.

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OMAN INAUGURATES FIRST WIND FARM PROJECT

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he Sultanate’s maiden utility-scale wind farm — the Dhofar Wind Power Project — began generating electricity last week, reports Oman Observer. Heralding a new era in lowcarbon, renewables-based power generation in the Sultanate, the 50 MW wind farm is a project of the Rural Areas Electricity Company (Tanweer), part of NAMA Group, and is located at Harweel in Dhofar Governorate.

The landmark project is comprised of 13 wind turbines, constructed by GE in partnership with Spanish firm TSK under contracts awarded by renewable energy pioneer Masdar. As such, Tanweer will oversee operations and management of the wind

farm and, once fully operational, will be the first large-scale wind project in the Gulf region.

The Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) will be the sole off-taker of output from its power generation and water desalination projects and plans to procure at least 2,200 MW of renewable-based electricity by 2025. According to OPWP’s 7-Year Output Report for 2019-2025, the utility states that it has “utilized ground-measured wind data in Harweel, supplemented by satellite data, to estimate the contribution of wind projects at around 35 per cent of the project’s installed capacity. This may change as data is collected from the Wind Resources Assessment (WRA) and [the] award of projects providing accurate configuration and yield assessments at specific sites. The most promising areas for onshore wind energy development are in coastal highland areas of Dhofar and Al Wusta Governorates – although certain mountainous areas of Sharqiyah Governorate also have potential.”

LIVESTOCK-OWNERS CAUTIONED BY MINISTRY ON HEMORRHAGIC FEVER RISK

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he Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MoAF) has advised livestock-keepers and the public to adopt precautionary measures against animal-tohuman transmission of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), reports Muscat Daily.

CCHF is caused by a virus carried by ticks found on sheep, goats, and cows. When these animals are bitten, they become carriers. Human contraction occurs when an individual is infected either by tick bites or via direct contact with blood and tissues of an infected animal during or after slaughtering. In a statement, the Ministry warned that “human-to-human transmission can occur resulting from close contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected persons.”

To avoid CCHF, the MoAF advises to “make sure to keep slaughter animals at approved municipal abattoirs only and dispose of slaughter waste in bags and dump them in designated areas. Ensure animals are free of ticks. Use tissues when handling animal waste. Be sure not to touch,

crush, or remove ticks by hand, wear protective clothing (long sleeves and trousers), gloves, and long boots.”

CCHF symptoms include fever, muscle aches, dizziness, neck pain and stiffness, back pain, headache, sore eyes, and photophobia. If symptoms are present, the Ministry of Health advises individuals affected to report within 24 hours to a healthcare facility. A vaccine against CCHF is as yet unavailable for humans, with the Ministry stressing preventative measures advised at best.

MALL OF OMAN ON-TRACK FOR 2021 OPENING

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ajid Al Futtaim, project developer for the upcoming Mall of Oman has stated the project is on-track for a March 2021opening after the recent completion of two of major infrastructural components, reports Muscat Daily – with new roads and flyovers connecting the mall to Interchange No. 6 on the Muscat

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Expressway constructed, as well as a primary sub-station of the Muscat Electricity Distribution Company.

The largest lifestyle destination in the Sultanate, the Mall of Oman will have 145,000 sqm of retail space, dining outlets, and lifestyle establishments.

Additionally, it will also boast Oman’s biggest VOX Cinemas, a Magic Planet family entertainment centre, a 12,200 sqm Carrefour Hypermarket, and the largest indoor snow park in the Sultanate.

Through the extensive creation of job opportunities, the project is expected to contribute to the Oman Vision 2040’s pillar of economic diversification. Says Majid Al Futtaim’s Chief Executive Officer – Shopping Malls, Ghaith Shocair: “The tourism and retail sectors are integral to Oman’s economy and are poised to drive growth and contribute to diversification.

These objectives are aligned with the Vision 2040.”

correspondence

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DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

The current gaming culture in Oman has never been more prevalent among youth.

But are its effects good or bad from both a health and cultural perspective?

KAMAL GANATRA

Due to the current gaming culture in Oman, attention spans among youth have gone down drastically as people are always in their virtual world. This can affect health and also add to the cultural gap [between teens and parents]. The aesthetics and principles of gaming culture have also had an increasing effect on mainstream culture.

Youth aren’t able to take a break and enjoy the moment, as much of their time is taken up by this addiction. So much mental energy is consumed, that a person might feel sleep -deprived at night, while relationships aren’t given importance as people are hooked on video games all the time. There are psychological consequences to this, which can include: intelligence, focus, and attention becoming half-baked. Parents need to assess the severity of their child’s game addiction and then take clear, decisive action to eliminate it from their lives. The general approach is to have youth spend more time in the real world and less time in the virtual world.

This can be as simple as joining a sports team

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or engaging in physical exercise, or as exotic as sending youth on an outdoor adventure program where computer time is limited.

NITYA SHANKARAN

Gaming has become a popular source of entertainment and recreation among the youth of today, and there are several pros and cons attached to it.

Kids who engage in gaming are more focused and alert and gamers tend to have quicker reflexes. However, continuous gaming affects one’s emotional stability in the long-run. Peer pressure, accompanied by the visual and sound effects of some games, can make gamers aggressive.

It’s therefore necessary to monitor and supervise the games your children play, as well as the duration being played by the younger generation in order to mold them appropriately for a better tomorrow.

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PARUL JAIN

‘All work and no play make Jack a dull boy’. An old English saying – but what play are we talking about? A child sitting in a room with headphones on and indulged in killing everyone around [on-screen]? Charles Darwin did say “Survival of the fittest” but definitely not this way.

Violent online games do increase better hand-eye coordination, reasoning, resource management and task accomplishment strategies, but they neglect our humane instincts and morality.

Children prefer to be secluded in a corner of a room rather than play outdoors and socialise. Innocent eyes have to wear thick glasses and curious, creative minds become boggled up instead with different types of ammunition. Continuously bending in front of laptops and mobiles can also cause cervical neck problems, along with headaches.

Even primary class children know about the latest weapon technology because of violent gaming. The names of guns and their range is on their tiny fingertips.

On one hand, we talk about world peace and a better future, while on the other we provide the next generation with such gaming techniques that teach them to dance on the graves of their inmates, keep looting their fellow beings, and running for their lives till the end.

Violent games can give rise to aggressive thoughts.

Academic achievements also get affected and the resulting isolation from society isn’t good. Our youth need to process their thoughts and anxieties about a better future and not associate violence with pleasure.

New Debate:

With Oman’s new school year comes a rise in alternative forms of education, from online classrooms to homeschooling. Should parents and pupils be thinking outside the classroom?

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

/CentaraMuscat @CentaraH oman @Centara_muscat_hotel

SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to info@y-oman.com / /ytabloid. The winning correspondent will receive a voucher for a Thai set dinner at Tiptara Restaurant,

Centara Muscat Hotel. Vouchers must be collected from Y’s Seeb office in person. Only one winner per week; editor’s decision is final. For other terms and conditions, see the Centara Muscat Hotel voucher.

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YOUR

WALK THIS WAY

OMAN

MAX FASHION DÉBUTED ITS FALL BACKTO-SCHOOL COLLECTION WITH A VIBRANT RUNWAY SHOW AT CITY CENTRE MUSCAT

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MOVIES MOVIES Mission Mangal Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Kirti Kulhari

Once Upon A Time… In Hollywood Cast: Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, Margot Robbie Set in 1969 Los Angeles, this comedy-drama film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino boasts a powerhouse cast and a storyline that’s nothing short of amazing – with a healthy dose of nostalgia thrown in for good measure. But hey, it’s Tarantino – and we’re right to expect big things from this, his ninth film. Fading TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) are

The Current War Cast: Tom Holland, Benedict Cumberbatch, Nicholas Hoult

struggling to make it big again in Hollywood after years of misadventure. Meanwhile, their new neighbour moves in and turns out to be none other than the infamous Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie). Through her, Rick sees a way to taste stardom once again – but will an outrageous turn of events stop his dream from coming true? Expect classic Tarantino in his finest cinematic form.

Whose electrical system will power the modern world? ‘The Current War’ follows the journey of Thomas Edison (Benedict Cumberbatch) in his attempt to use his DC technology to introduce light to Manhattan. However, his efforts are challenged when businessman George

Westinghouse (Michael Shannon) and his partner Nikola Tesla (Nicholas Hoult) rival him using Tesla’s own AC electrical current. Needless to say sparks fly in this historical drama that shines a light on one of the most bitter patent wars of the 19th-century.

‘Mission Mangal’ follows the incredible true story behind the launch of India’s first satellite to Mars and the team of scientists who conquered their personal challenges and failures to serve as the brains behind one of the greatest missions in the nation’s history. Akshay Kumar stars as Mission Director Rakesh Dhawan, with Vidya Balan portraying Project Director of the Mars Orbiter Mission, Tara Shinde. A classic underdog tale, the film is rooted in sentimentality in an attempt to motivate the viewer to dream big and reach the unreachable. A feel-good, crowd-pleaser of a film.

Master Z: The Ip Man Legacy Cast: Dave Bautista, Michelle Yeoh, Jin Zhang

From the ‘Ip Man’ series comes a highchopping spin-off and direct sequel to the 2015 film ‘Ip Man 3’. After being defeated

by Ip Man, Cheung Tin Chi (Max Zhang) lives a depressed and low-profile life waiting tables at a lounge that caters to expats.

But he’s called to fight once more after he attracts the fury of a vicious triad leader whose gang he defeated single-handedly in a previous encounter. Hollywood action icon Dave Bautista stars as a foreign drug-lord who falls in line with the triad to peddle his wares on the streets of China, while awardwinning screen veteran Michelle Yeoh takes on the role as Kwan, the sister of the head of the syndicate who seeks to leave the life of crime behind. This is a great romp of a flick with action from all angles.

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 2479-1641

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THE SULTANATE’S PENCHANT AS A NATION OF YOUNG GAMERS CONTINUES TO EARN IT ITS STRIPES ON THE REGION’S PROFESSIONAL ESPORTS CIRCUIT. THIS WEEK, WE’RE EXPLORING THE ROOTS OF THE COMMUNITY THAT’S GROWN UP AROUND GAMING IN OMAN, ITS FUTURE AND IMPACT – GOOD OR BAD – AS A LIFESTYLE OF CHOICE AMONG A NEW GENERATION.

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And, in less than two decades, the video game industry has undergone a dramatic change both culturally and technologically – and what’s more fascinating is that the pace is only growing worldwide.

While the aforementioned stats of online gamers are overwhelming by itself, keep in mind that there are roughly 2.2 billion gamers – of the casual and competitive kind – in the world today.

That amounts to 29 per cent of the world’s population.

This number, however, jumps much higher than the world average in Oman, says Aisha al Barwani – a child psychologist running her own practice in Shatti al Qurum.

“On average, I have nearly eight patients that are children every day, and seven out of those eight are gamers of some kind. aming is life in a virtual world that This can be through smartphones or even computers. gives my reality a sense of purpose.”

“And, while there was a time when we used to look down on It’s a strong proclamation of life gaming itself as a means to corrupt a child’s mind, the outlooks revolving around games expressed by have changed; people have begun using games as a means more Victor ‘Viki’ Gomez, a 21-year-old than just leisure.

Spanish expat student and gamer in “In Oman, for instance, games such as Fortnite and PUBG Oman – one that sheds light on the culture of gaming here in (PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds) have taken over. And while the Sultanate. they are violent in nature, it does give you swift decision-making His eyes gleam as he talks about his games, and no detail is abilities and a general increase in brain activity for longer periods spared as he runs us through the contents of his PlayStation 4 when you’re gaming. console and his gaming rig – one that’s lit in red and blue lights “This is why gamers tend to get exhausted after long hours with liquids cooling the machine’s internals. of gaming. I would never suggest anyone to take up gaming “A strong machine indeed,” we proclaim out of ignorance on as a sport and go for 10-hour-long marathons, but anything in the topic. But we’re corrected by Viki, who says: “Strong isn’t the moderation is good for your body. word. It doesn’t get any more powerful than this.”

“An hour of gaming is what I would consider apt for He then chatters about the guts of the computer, throwing replenishing one’s mind after a long day at school or at work,” in words such as ‘cores’, ‘threads’, and ‘RAM’ – all important she says, before asserting that several working adults – including factors to the makings of a gaming PC, but only tools in the her husband – are gamers. hands of the unqualified.

It’s also something the salesman from the Game World shop Viki, on the other hand, is qualified...perhaps more so than he in Azaiba confirms. He tells us: “A lot of the people who buy knows – and he has fans in Oman that follow him through his from us are actually between the ages of 24 and 35. They’re not game streaming account on YouTube. parents of children like it used to be.

He’s just taken home top spot in a Dota (a multi-player online “These are all working professionals who just want to beat battle game) championship in Dubai and came runner-up in stress by playing games. Although, I don’t particularly approve of a FIFA tournament held in Ruwi in 2018. The latter doesn’t their choices of games – they’re mostly of the violent kind – but astonish us, given his Spanish roots. each to their own.

But what amazes us is the support he receives from his parents “Of course, we hear a lot of bad incidents in other parts of the and peers. world of aggravated assaults and shootouts, and we worry about Hanging on the wall are pictures of him gaming as his family it. cheers him on; his father even hands him water while he plays.

“But here, the people don’t usually carry aggression into their The dark game-themed background in the photo doesn’t do work or school environments.” much to conceal its contents.

He’s right. Countries such as the USA and Netherlands have Several gamers are seen lined-up and playing together while witnessed bloody shootouts linked to games (and gamers). A who we assume to be their friends and family cheer on. report published by the American Psychologists Association Gaming – an act that was once deemed for pleasure – has (APA), showed a consistent relation between violent video games now evolved to become a full-fledged sport with fans and and raised aggression levels. cheerleaders.

Over a 15-year period, recorded incidents such as the Gone are the 8-bit games and those taking place through local- Columbine massacre (1999), the Colorado theatre shootings area networks (LAN) – and replacing them are those connected (2012), Sandy Hook massacre (2012) and Washington Navy to the online world; a space where a staggering 1.2 billion Yard massacre (2013) have been attributed to violent video game players – as per data compiled by gaming company Spil Games – usage. partake to complete what seems like a sacred act.

However, the GCC – including Oman – remains largely free from any recorded incident.

In fact, Mahroof Khatri, who has represented Oman in competitions organised by Red Bull and other first-person shooter games such as Counter Strike, says: “Gaming is considered to be one of the greatest revolutions of the 21stcentury.

“It’s not an aggressor, it’s a teacher. It teaches you to be humble in defeat over time and shows you that there’s a lot you can learn from each other.

“This has always been the case in Oman. Here, we have tournaments that are organised – perhaps not as frequently as we’d like – that involve players from the country. Here, both Omanis and expats play together and battle it out like real warriors.

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Mahroof says that this trend of gaming tournaments is on the rise here in Oman, though the culture is only slowly being cultivated.

“There used to be a time when gaming was detested by the older generations. But, with the millennials slowly starting families, this has changed. Gaming isn’t a taboo anymore.

“This mindset is only being changed slowly, so we see that Oman lags when compared with the rest of the GCC. Mind you, we’re still not behind them by much. But, countries such as UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain are big on the gaming scene.

“UAE even has a comic convention – Comic Con – that incorporates gaming in it, while Saudi Arabia has fostered some amazing FIFA players. We need to have more tournaments held here on a monthly basis to give people a chance to compete and show their skills.”

A quick search reveals that Oman has seen a handful of prestigious gaming conventions since the first international gaming convention – IGN Convention – took place in December 2016.

Since then, the Sultanate has seen 968Gamez take over the baton with appearances by the Middle East College, which has been consistently organising its own gaming conventions – the last one held in March of this year.

As for gaming tournaments, Oman frequently sees events held by local gaming centres, , though some are discreet and known to be on an invite-only basis.

One that did catch national attention, however, was the 4th Annual PlayStation Tournament that was held at the Mall of Muscat. Organised by the Golden Joystick group and in association with several local elite companies, the tournament witnessed more than 640 participants take part in games such as FIFA 19, Pro Evolution Soccer 2019, and Fortnite.

In an interview with Y, Muktam al Adawi, a representative of the Golden Joystick group, said: “Oman’s gaming scene is growing quickly and a lot more quality players are coming onto the scene.

“This means that more people are looking to be represented and given a chance to game professionally. With this event, we’re giving the youth a chance to showcase their skill and come on top of some of the best players from Oman and also worldwide.

“It’s only then that they’ll be motivated to keep playing and do what they do for the nation.

“Who knows, maybe someday, one of these guys here will take the Sultanate’s name high in the gaming scene,” he added.

Another change that’s taken place in the country is of the cultural kind. While gaming is part and parcel of modern homes, this wasn’t the case just five years ago.

As Aisha says, “There was a time when I remember my mother chasing my brothers when they would binge on computer games. Today, things have changed, and I would say that it has somehow become abnormal to not have a game of some sorts in the house.

“Gaming can also be important within families and can help the members bond with each other. If done right with the correct type of games, then families can spend more time together.”

However, from a cultural stance, games have progressed from mere tools to pass time, to catalysts used to make friends and, even sometimes, as a match-maker.

While we aren’t aware of local couples who have met while gaming, we ran into one Asian expat (name withheld upon request) in Oman who met the ‘love of his life’ in India while playing an online multi-player game, League of Legends.

He says: “Today, we’re engaged, and we will soon be getting married. Our families must never know of how we met, as it’s still a taboo in India. But, the story of our marriage will always start with that game.

“We’ve since stopped playing that game and have moved on to PUBG,” he laughs.

Aside from playing Cupid, games are also important in forging new friendships, says Mahroof.

He explains: “There was a time when gaming was intended for people who were shy in their skin or those who were deemed geeks.

“But things have changed. As more money was being pumped into gaming, more people kept realising its potential in the

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market. Today, you have everything from gaming conventions (GameCons) to tournaments that help people socialise and interact.

“This helps people come out of their skin and learn to interact with others from outside Oman. It can help them in the future – whether it’s in their family or even professional lives.”

Mahroof says that he too learned the art of making conversation when he picked up the keyboard to game for the first time in 2004 as a teenager. Today, he’s the procurement manager of a leading construction company in Oman and still makes time to play Dota 2 and League of Legends.

A reason for this, he says, is the grip games have had on him since he began.

“Games have helped me grow into the person that I am today.

I can smoothly converse and even play with people from any part of the globe today. That’s what I have learned over the last decade or so.

“And as Oman continues to accept gaming as a part of its community, this will increase among the local population as well.

“In many ways, games will help groom a clan of youth into international sportsmen and women even before they set foot outside the nation.

“I imagine that it will still take two to three years for this mindset to completely set in. Imagine the positives of hosting an international gaming tournament.

“Not only would it improve the skills of Omani youth, it will also open up the Sultanate to large groups of people and create what is known as ‘gaming tourism’. It’s something that will help the country achieve its tourism numbers – and at the same time give an added boost to the local gaming scene.

Whether this will arrive at fruition in the coming years is yet to be seen. But, it’s Muktam who gave us his word on the future of gaming in Oman: “Gaming is far from mere pleasure and leisure; it’s a passion and a sport in itself that has tailored an industry.

“Several nations have adopted that and created some truly spectacular tournaments in the last few years. And that’s also our intention here. As youth, we want to create a space where Omanis and expats can game together, become great friends and, above all, talented gamers.

“That’s the goal, and Oman is getting there very fast.”

Gaming can also be important within families and can help the members bond with each other. If done right with the correct type of games, then families can spend more time together.

BILL OF

HEALTH

S

uccess is the outcome of hard work, determination, and resilience that requires constant attention to detail – even at the most testing of times.

That’s probably what outlines the two-decade-strong career of one of the nation’s most prolific CEOs: Nasser Batha.

It’s also the motto that extends to his hospital – Starcare – that’s quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing private healthcare groups in the Sultanate.

But, for a man with a career that’s silver-lined with success across several different sectors – from beginnings in the aviation industry and extending to technology, investments and asset management and, finally, healthcare – Nasser takes special pride in highlighting the achievements of his colleagues over his own.

“Starcare’s success comes from those that work behind the smooth functioning of the hospital; from the specialised doctors and consulting doctors, to the nurses and hospital staff,” says Nasser with a smile.

His words stand true, as Starcare was recently awarded the ‘Best Employer for Healthcare’ in Oman by the World HRD Congress following an anonymous and private audit.

A prestigious award by all means, Nasser goes on to talk to us about what it is that makes Starcare the brand that it is today, and how they’re becoming a provider to the masses while also garnering trust from the millions of people that reside in the Sultanate.

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COFFEE WITH Y MEETS NASSER BATHA, CEO AND CO-FOUNDER OF STARCARE GROUP, TO LEARN HOW A FOCUS ON UPHOLDING OMANI HEALTHCARE REMAINS AT THE ROOT OF THEIR SUCCESS

Here’s an excerpt from our interview: Y: Being named by the World HRD Congress as the ‘Best Employer for Healthcare’ in Oman is a matter of great pride for the brand, its staff, and customers. What went into the makings of this achievement?

NB: We’re very humbled by the recognition that we’ve received and are very proud that we could win this award. The award was judged by an independent panel and was audited anonymously. That’s what makes this award a matter of prestige for us. To keep it simple, we just stick to our motto: Keep Caring. We don’t restrict that to our patients alone; we extend it to our internal customers: the people – our colleagues – who work for us and keep this eco-system working efficiently – and we’re grateful for them.

Y: How is Starcare upholding the values of Omani healthcare?

NB: When Starcare came into Oman 10 years ago, private healthcare was in its early stages.

There were only a couple of players here then, but we’ve had a lot of acceptance since we began bringing good service and quality to the market. His Majesty’s vision to privatise healthcare has also propelled

our efforts and made us do more.

Unlike many countries, healthcare provided by the government here is very high. So, for the private sector to succeed, we must bring a lot more value to the people. This has put a lot more pressure on us to improve the quality and ensure that there’s not just that – but also acute care provided.

Y: What are some of the challenges you faced after taking over as CEO? NB: Like any business, the challenge is always in providing quality care at an affordable price. For that, you must invest a lot in bringing the right talent pool; the doctors are extremely important for us as they’re the asset of our business.

We also put a lot of importance on quality. Yes, every business must remain profitable, but having said that, our priority is to service the community. So, there’s pressure to ensure that our quality and efforts match the affordability of the marketplace. To achieve this, we had to invest a lot in technology. Only through that could we manage the equilibrium of the quality and the price we can charge. We pay a lot of emphasis to quality control when it comes to building our products.

We also pay attention to building our people (the staff).

Y: Are there plans to expand your hospital’s reach beyond the already established Seeb branch in Oman?

NB: Currently, we have a hospital in Seeb – that’s our flagship. We started as a 50-bed hospital and have since opened an 80-bed hospital in Barka that serves the whole South Batinah region. We also have three medical centres in Mabelah, Baushar, and Duqm – those are quite capable of handling the patients in those regions, and we’re launching the first, and our only, exclusive women and children’s hospital in Al Hail early next year, which is an extension of our hospital in Seeb. We’re also in the final stages of finishing our design of a large 250-bed tertiary care hospital in Ghala that we’ll open in 2-3 years’ time. The construction will begin sometime in October and it’s called the ‘Health City’ project. Aside from that, we’ve launched a new product called the ‘Saha Clinics’. We conceived this model to serve the primary care services in the marketplace, the first of which we’ve opened in Samail. We also hope to open 20-odd ones in the next 24 months.

Y: Starcare currently operates medical centres as well across Oman. Can we expect to see more such centres outside the capital? If so, which city will you be focusing on?

NB: I think it’s very important to focus on the suburbs because there’s a huge population growth in many of the areas outside the city, and the medical facilities there are a bit scattered because of the market size. But, if you cluster them together, where you can offer immediate and primary care, it will bring a lot of value to the community. We can also then offer support to transfer people to bigger hospitals during emergencies.

Y: The hospital in Seeb currently boasts quality doctors from around the globe.

Can you tell us how crucial these doctors have been in helping the brand connect with patients?

NB: Like a restaurant is primarily driven by the chefs, hospitals are driven by its doctors. So, sourcing our doctors and retaining them is our highest priority. At Starcare, we have the highest level of consultant-level doctors in the nation coming from all parts of the world. We’re proud of that, and that’s what gives the patients the trust that they have with us. We have a lot of Omani doctors as visiting consultants and we’ve started hiring full-time Omani doctors as well.

Y: Can you elaborate on the brand’s Omanisation strategy – how you train and offer equal opportunities to the citizens?

NB: Omanisation is a priority for us, and I’ve taken it as a personal mission as I believe that we owe it to the country. Since I’ve come, I’ve been able to increase Omanisation by 20 per cent.

We’ve been working closely with the Ministry of Manpower to place, advertise, and conduct mass interviews. We’ve completed four mass interviews with a selection model from which we chose 15 nurses. We’re now working with the National Training Committee, who have offered to train these nurses before they come on-board. We also had a social media recruitment campaign among Omanis, from which we had about 2,000 entries. We’ve also started embarking Omani’s in leadership programs.

Y: We understand that Starcare has also gone overseas to Kerala, India. Can we expect to see Starcare grow beyond its local roots and into the GCC as well?

NB: Starcare is blessed to be an Oman-based company and, currently, we have an ambitious growth plan in Oman given his Majesty’s vision to further privatize the healthcare sector – so for now our primary focus remains in Oman. We do have a presence in Sharjah, UAE and India already, and over a period of time we do hope to spread out to other GCC countries too.

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Winging it Oman’s Dhofar region is a haven for bird-watchers – especially during its annual monsoon khareef season when global migration routes meet. Aftab H. Kola grabs his binoculars and explores a handful of rare species to be spotted

B

ird-watching is one of life’s more peaceful outdoor pursuits; so, it’s little wonder that it’s one of the fastest-growing leisure activities in the Sultanate.

Oman is home to more than 480 varieties of birds, plus 100 other temporary species who use the Sultanate as a stopping point on their migration routes. It’s also a country well-endowed with habitats where an abundance of species thrive – from Muscat’s Al Ansab Wetlands and Al Qurum Natural Park, the Damaniyat Islands, Sawadi and Fahl Islands, Bar Al Hikman and Masirah Island, to the Dhofar region and the Musandam Peninsula, all are popular sanctuaries teeming with winged beauty.

But it’s during Dhofar’s annual rainy season – or ‘khareef’—that the governorate becomes engulfed with unique varieties of birds who call its verdant haven home, even if only for a short time.

The natural beauty of Dhofar’s landscape is complemented by its varied wildlife – the more diverse, the better. With

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an already well-established population of bird species, during khareef this number rises significantly due to the annual great migrations of species between Africa and their Eurasian breeding grounds. Soaring across international borders and foreign frontiers, they deftly negotiate and fly over the mountains and sea to reach their temporary resting place in Dhofar.

If there’s a photographer in you, then the governorate is the place to be during khareef as the entire region transforms into a green canvas. While its captivating panoramas are worth the flight (or tenhour road-trip!), it’s Dhofar’s winged fauna that add to its back-to-nature allure. Sighting flocks of birds on the wing or spotting a rare species in flight or in repose as they forage for food and water is as rewarding an experience as they come for amateur ornithologists.

Couple this with the familiar landscape over which they fly, which has evolved over thousands of years and you have a natural tableau unlike any other.

For bird enthusiasts Dhofar is a hotspot

boasting a diverse array of species within a relatively modest geographic area – from African, Oriental, and Palaearctic species, to large numbers of sea birds. From coastal ‘khawrs’ (lagoons), beaches, and cliffs, to irrigated farmlands and thicklywooded wadis, these feathered bipeds are all prevalent – and make for an illuminating spectacle of nature.

Dhofar’s monsoon khareef season is unique to the Arabian Peninsula, making Oman ornithologically unique in that it lies at the centre of three global great migration routes. These temporary species who stopover along their journeys mix and mingle with local endemic species – many of which also have African origins. Many of these visitors are Palaearctic or Eurasian species who have taken up temporary residence on their spring or autumn migrations, while others even

spend the entire winter in the governorate. Places such as Mirba, Taqah, Mugsayl Beach, and Salalah are prime locations where you’re more than likely to spot some truly diverse species.

Among those founds in the governorate’s mountainous or wooded areas are the African paradise flycatcher, the shining sunbird, the African rock bunting, Hume’s tawny owl, the yellowbellied pigeon, African scops, and Verraux eagle breeds. During Dhofar’s winter season, more newcomers show their faces with birds such as the tawny eagle, the long-tailed shrike, and the lesser spotted eagle making appearances. The region is also home to endemic Arabian species too – so keep an eye out for the Yemen serin, the goldenwinged grosbeak, and the Arabian redlegged partridge as all are common.

During khareef, the monsoon results in an up-welling of nutrient-rich waters off the coast of Dhofar which support large numbers of fish and attract a plethora of sea birds. Mirbat – around 60kms from Salalah is another place ideal for bird-spotting, with species such as masked boobies, Jouanin’s petrel, the pale-footed shearwater, Audubon’s shearwater, and Wilson’s storm petrel commonly sighted.

Coastal ‘khawrs’ or lagoons in Dhofar are where waterfowl and migratory birds such as the pheasant-tailed jacana, the lesser flamingo, the African spoonbill, the long-toed stint, herons, pintail snipes, Baillon’s crakes, and pale rock sparrows all take refuge. It’s said that more than 70,000 water-birds (herons, waders, gulls, and terns) use Oman’s beaches and coastlines for food foraging and for roosting. Near Taqbah, close to Mirbat, you can watch incredible numbers of birds crouching amid the vegetation – unmindful of the long lenses and inquisitive gaze of tourists. And with more tourism agency capitalizing on the region’s bird bio-diversity by offering bird-watching excursions, your next trip to Dhofar this Eid is as easy as grabbing your binoculars and Audubon guide-book! ■

Bird-watching for beginners Try to get a field guide which contains information on different species along with appropriate illustrations to help you identify the species you’ve spotted. You can find some great resources on www.birdsoman. com.

Invest in field binoculars. While there are some species large enough to easily be spotted by the naked eye – others may be much smaller or seen distantly or in low light.

Devices like a powerful pair of field binoculars will help you determine the correct species.

Approach all wildlife with care. Drive cautiously, walk slowly, and speak quietly when approaching birds. Because remember – if they’re spooked, they’ll fly off in a flash.

Know and respect the environment. Be sensitive to bird and wildlife habitats and know the law when ventured into potentially protected areas.

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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 BORDERLANDS

The majestic backdrop of the Al Hajjar Mountains straddles the rocky border between Oman and the UAE

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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

WADI HATTA Paul Reddington hits the road to Oman’s borderlands, discovering solace among unspoiled nature on the edge of the line that divides.

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frisky around intruders – especially if you’re sipping on sugar-heavy drinks.

As it turns out, bees love Pepsi and Vimto.

We spent a good 18 hours at our campsite and resorted to camping the night, having stocked up on grilled food from a shop in Sohar, crisps, and juices.

Over the course of the night, we learned that it’s vital to keep food and drinks on-hand should you find yourself trapped in a tricky situation with no one to call or nowhere to go.

The lack of amenities in the area is probably what makes this a silent and desolate wadi, but its importance cannot be overlooked: Wadi Hatta bridges the Sultanate with the United Arab Emirates.

It’s an area where the two countries come together to shake hands; like two long-lost family members who have found one another and have come together in unity.

Other nations can take a leaf out of our books.

HOW TO GET THERE

TRAVEL GUIDE

R

oad-trips often script the most memorable journeys From experiencing the calmness of the empty roads along the outskirts of Oman, to catching glimpses of the striking scenery that paints itself across the horizon, there’s a lot that can be done when you’re at the helm of a wheel (or as a passenger) in a car than, say, when flying.

This is one of the reasons we prefer heading to the United Arab Emirates by road – the life that exists beyond the capital of Muscat is worth soaking in.

The banana trees in Sohar, the homely towns of Mussanah, and even the souq or the plant nurseries in Barka are all stopover points that make for an exciting and fun-filled

heard but not seen and the only life around at first glance are the birds that flock around the water-logged areas.

Even mobile networks can be patchy depending on where you perch up – but whether you see this as a blessing or a curse, is up to you.

Those looking for adventure should make a beeline for this wadi. There’s a mix of greenery, sand-coloured mountainous rocks, and gushing streams that not many wadis in Oman can replicate in the midst of the August summer.

As expected, it was hot in the wadi on the day of our trip. We experienced the wrath of the journey.

45-degree-Celsius heat-wave and Not so far from Sohar – some resorted to a dip in the streams 100kms away – lies another locale that warrants the attention of road- around the wadi for a quick cooltrippers but is often overlooked due down. to its proximity to the Oman-UAE The water was still fresh on the border: Wadi Hatta. day of our trip and was brimming Still brimming with crystal-clear with wadi fish ready to nibble at water from the scattered rains from your toes should you need a free two weeks ago, our trip to the wadi spa for your feet. We’d imagine a turned memorable from the time we similar treatment would set you set up camp. back at least RO10 at a reputed spa The solace from the silence in Muscat. is intoxicating and the views These fish also made a great breathtaking: mountains flank either snack for the birds – some of which side of the wadi and there are tall were eagles – that swooped across ledges that run far and wide to to grab a mouthful before making a protect you from the sun. hasty retreat.

These ledges also mean you’re There are plenty of trees around disconnected from life outside the to give you shade, but some of wadi – the odd car driving by can be them nest bees that can get a bit

From Muscat, take Route 1 north, passing through the Shinas Gateway. Take a left at the Al Aqar roundabout and join Route 5. This road takes you all the way to the dirt track, which can be found on the left after passing through the Al Wajaja Border Post.

GPS Coordinates: 24°47’23.991” N; 56°’14’38.013” E

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CARS ADVENTURES

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO QUADRIFOGLIO

FIRST DRIVE

S

even minutes and 52 seconds. That’s the time that the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio took to splice – end-to-end – the world’s most challenging and grueling racetrack: the Nürburgring.

It’s a number that evokes awe among petrol-heads.

After all, the twisty German track that has cost many cars – and lives – spans nearly 26 kilometres.

Also, sport utility vehicles – or SUVs – aren’t meant to munch down lap records and annihilate supercars that weigh half and cost five times as much. Yet somehow, the Stelvio does just that.

This rounds up the makings of the best comeback story of an automotive brand that was long overshadowed by its own successes from the past; second only to the rivalry between Ferrari and Ford.

This then is the start of things to come from the Italian stables – and things have never looked more promising.

At the crux of this promise is a Ferrari-derived motor: a 2.9-litre ‘twin-turbocharged’ V6 that is

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We’re picking up where we left off as we burn rubber once again in the Italian car-maker’s super SUV in part two of our in-depth test drive

tuned by Alfa to produce 503hp and 600Nms of torque.

It’s then coupled with an eight-speed ZF gearbox that’s been profoundly recalibrated to handle the additional curb weight from the bigger engine and the added power it puts to the ground.

Weight increases by about 200kgs to 1.9-tonnes when compared with the Stelvio Super, though things are kept in check with carbon fibre inserts and the generous use of aluminum all through the chassis, engine, and bodywork.

All the nice and curvy panels you see upfront – the bonnet, doors, wheel arches – are all cast in highgrade aluminum. So are the underpinnings of the suspension. The result is an SUV that undercuts the Porsche Macan Turbo by a great 95kgs. Keep that in mind when you gorge on that 350g steak and chips.

As expected, power is driven through all four wheels in conjunction with Alfa’s Q4 driveline, but there’s a twist – the Quadrifoglio diverts nearly

all its power to the rear wheels in normal driving conditions, with the limited-slip differential only sending torque to the front (up to 50 per cent) when it detects loss of traction or an angle of slip.

Then there’s the Active Torque Vectoring system that aims to pull you back into line when you’re shredding the tires into their elements in a sharp corner at high speed.

Even the prop-shaft that connects the two axles is finished in carbon-fibre to save weight and decrease response time. It’s the kind of determination and attention to detail that we lack in the performance SUV segment.

What all this results in is automotive perfection.

This could very well be the only super SUV we’ve ever driven that mimics a sports car while maintaining SUVlike proportions, thereby proving to the world that there’s more to making an SUV of such sorts than just chucking out oodles of power to all four wheels.

That’s not to say the Stelvio Quadrifoglio isn’t quick on its feet – it is.

In fact, line it up against a Ferrari 458 Italia or a McLaren MP4-12C – both supercars of the highest

D e s t i n at i o n

order – and it’ll emerge the winner by a whisker. Our tests consistently revealed 0-100kph times between 3.8 and 4.1 seconds on hot 40-degree-Celsius summer days.

A part of the reason for Alfa’s confident sub-four-second zero-to-100kph claims can be the low-end torque that the engine produces. Torque kicks in a slither over the 2,500rpm mark while keeping itself flowing up to the 5,000rpm band.

Twist the dial into ‘Race’ mode and the Stelvio Quadrifoglio becomes every bit as eager as its sedan counterpart; from the bellowing engine upfront to the roaring and crackling exhaust note from the quad pipes in the rear.

That’s also when we learned that straight line speed is hardly the SUV’s strong suit.

What the engineers dial into the engine, it maintains through the corners. Little wonder then the car gets sports bucket seats handcrafted in carbon fibre that hug your shoulders and hind tightly (but with adequate leeway) in tight corners.

It’s staggering to say that the Stelvio scripts magnificence around the corners. It’ll easily power through a short lap of the Yas Marina race-track in under a minute and 30 seconds – a respectable time for an SUV. Unfortunately, we had to resort to highways and city traffic during our test drive, but from the cornering we could do, we can

Po s t c a r d s Fr o m

Y-Fi

report that the handling dynamics are splendid; car-like even.

A part of that could be pegged to the quick-ratio steering wheel fitted to the Stelvio. It’s addictive and mimics (to an extent) what we’ve come to terms with in the Alfa Romeo Giulia and even Ferrari’s 812 Superfast.

All of this comes alive in ‘Race’ mode, which also boldly deactivates the traction and stability controls.

Doing so removes any unwanted electronic interference and allows you to enter slides so dramatic (and illegal) that your mates would deem blasphemy in a cars-and-coffee meet.

Getting the Stelvio to oversteer is like poking a tiger with a stick. You know it’s going to snap its jaws at you with a roar.

It’s then up to your skills to keep you from staying on all four wheels and offset the lack of any driver aids.

Holding the composure midway through the slide involves you feathering the throttle: give it too much and the torque will catch you out with a wild spin, but keep the pedal in check and you’ll be rewarded with smooth slides that can be kept alive by countering with the steering.

Our only gripe with the setup was that we found the quick-ratio steering catching us out if we were hard in turnin or over-compensated mid-way through a power slide.

Meanwhile, those looking for a more civilised approach can make use of the torque vectoring system to hold them in line and keeping the driving mode set to ‘Dynamic’.

Couple that with the sticky Pirelli PZero tires (255/45 in the front and 285/40 in the rear) wrapped around the 20inch alloys and you’ll be left with mind-numbing levels of grip.

The tires, while loud and rocky when pushed hard in ‘Race’ mode, do offer admirable levels of quietness when left in ‘N-Natural’ or ‘A-Advanced Efficiency’ modes. The PZeros also didn’t reveal any form of grip-loss from heating when cutting corners. Still, there’s just not enough levels of flex on the sidewall to warrant any worry for track users.

The massive brakes on our tester are wellventilated and also slotted to improve cooling but there’s also a carbon-ceramic option for those with deep pockets or if you’re looking to eke out the best out of the brakes on a race-track.

Gaming

CARS

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO QUADRIFOGLIO Specifications: • Engine: 2.9-litre ‘twin-turbocharged’ V6 • Transmission: Eight-speed ‘ZF’ automatic • Power: 503hp • Torque: 600Nms • Top Speed: 283kph (limited) Four-wheel drive Carbon-fibre trim 3 selectable drive modes 50:50 weight distribution Alfa Chassis Domain Control 8.8-inch infotainment screen Auto emergency braking Adaptive cruise control Harman/Kardon premium surround sound system Leather and alcantara upholstery

PEGGING THIS AS A PORSCHE MACAN TURBO IS AN INSULT. THE STELVIO QUADRIFOGLIO IS MORE THAN THAT; MAYBE MUCH MORE THAN THE THRESHOLD OF WHAT ONE WOULD BELIEVE IN A REVIEW WITHOUT ACTUALLY HAVING DRIVEN THE CAR. Our brake tests revealed no real fade – owing greatly to the dual calipers in the rear. However, we’d like to know how they would hold up in the long run.

Overall, we’d say that the Stelvio Quadrifoglio is a pretty darn good SUV to drive around in – merging the best of driving dynamics with the comfort and practicality of an SUV. What’s better is that looks and feels like a Giulia Quadrifoglio – a car that we claimed was the best sports sedan of the 21st-century. And going by that account, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio is undoubtedly the best driving SUV we’ve ever tested.

That’s says a lot about how wellengineered and focused the Stelvio is, because with competition as tight as it is now – with the arrival of the Lamborghini Urus and the Maserati Levante Trofeo – the performance SUV market has never been in the spotlight more than it is now.

Pegging this as a Porsche Macan Turbo is an insult. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is more than that; maybe much more than the threshold of what one would believe in a review without actually having driven the car.

This would fall into the realms of those vehicles that define modern-day motoring.

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1. Enjoy a sundowner mocktail from the pool-view terrace of their Living Room lounge.

2. Indulge in their Pink Friday promotion on the WET Deck and soak up the sun.

3. Book in for an indulgent massage at their AWAY Spa. 4. See how many Omani-inspired design elements you can spot – and architectural animals too!

5. Tuck into a fresh, healthy spread at their Harvest restaurant breakfast buffet.

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WHATEVER, WHENEVER The W Muscat lives up to its motto as a luxurious new property that pays homage to the Sultanate it now calls home

Destination

Cars

Y-Fi

Gaming

POSTCARDS FROM

Ashlee Starratt recommends a staycation at the

W MUSCAT F

ew brands can truly be described as iconic. In fact, it’s a word that’s far too over-used and, oftentimes, inaccurately attributed. But in the world of hospitality, W Hotels can wear that moniker proudly.

Marking its first foray into the Sultanate, the new W Muscat has been a long time coming and, known as disruptors on the scene, finally opened its doors this spring in Shatti Al Qurum to an eagerly-awaiting public.

Pulling up to the hotel on a weekend afternoon we’re greeted by a towering steel sculpture of a frankincense tree, while the striking lobby interior catches our attention with its impeccable attention to cultural aesthetic detail executed with signature W chic.

Floor-to-ceiling black marble pervades, with splashes of colour in vibrant hues coming from the nearby seating area and the sinfully luxe adjacent Living Room lounge, while a glittering chandelier tracks a purple landscape that’s equal parts sound-wave and equal parts an inverted rendering of the Al Hajjar Mountains.

After a breezy check-in we’re escorted down cavernous winding hallways, meant to feel as though you’re in the Al Hoota Caves to our Wonderful King Room. Along the way holographic Arabesque pop-art dots peeks out unexpectedly, while the carpeted floors are mandalas in shades of sea and sand.

With 279 rooms and suites, the hotel is vast, yet all facilities feel easily accessible from our far corner room. Inside the colour palette is gold and teal jewel tones with splashes of pink, and animal prints that lend it a typical W feel of being contemporary and swish yet with a nod to Omani heritage in its design. Looking closely, we notice the bedside lampshades are reminiscent of Omani kuma headdress, while the closet and cupboards areas are leather-bound carriage trunks meant to represent the transient wanderer whose peregrinations aren’t so different from the Bedouin.

The bathroom is floor to ceiling white- and black-streaked marble with mirrored sliding walls and luxurious Bliss bath products. There’s a gold-lacquered camel stool in the massive walk-in shower. Let that sink in.

In fact, we do. Sitting outside on our shaded terrace drinking in the view and the sun off the pool deck, we get the feeling the fun is just getting started...

V IB R A

NT COL O D E F IN E U R S A N D F U N KY A T Y P IC A L R O O P R IN T S M

My favourite place

Poolside at the WET Deck. There’s really no place we’d rather be…all weekend in fact. And that’s saying something as the hotel’s diversity of outlets are all well worth spending time in. But the large courtyard-style pool with its overwater cabanas where you can lounge all day with a good book from sun-up to sundown is bliss. The staff are friendly and the service pretty impeccable considering the number of hungry and thirsty sun-worshippers lounging about. With a focus on wellness – think Detox, Retox, Repeat – across all the hotel’s B&F offerings (that’s Beverage & Food, because, W!), menus are fresh, filling and with a focus on local ingredients that highlight the Omani cuisine. At WET Deck you’ll find fresh platters of crudités alongside, wholesome salads, piquant prawn tacos, and some seriously sizzling sandwiches.

C OU R T Y A R THE LUSH P OO L

D -S T Y L E

Highlights As is the case with W hotels, it’s all about the small details that set their properties apart. Taking our breakfast

and dinner in their Harvest all-day dining restaurant – a lush bistro decked out in shades of blue – the stellar service we experienced was certainly one of them. Our waiter Javn was our culinary guide for our a la carte dinner experience, offering up insightful recommendations while being conscientious in his service towards our pace of dining, and convincing us to go for dessert – which, on top of an already decadent prawn biriyani and grilled salmon with miso mushrooms, was the proverbial cherry on top. The presentation of Harvest’s Exotic Cheesecake – carefully enrobed to resemble an orange creamsicle dropped amid a tumble of meringues, passionfruit and raspberry purees, with a perfect globe of coconut sorbet.

Exquisite. While on this trip we didn’t make it over to their CHAR signature steakhouse and grill, we make a mental note to return and try it out another time. We’re also marking our calendars for the openings of their two yet-to-come outlets – the Asian-inspired Ba Ban and the hotel’s rooftop jewel, Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar which will boast its own infinity pool. Waking up gently the next morning we head for an early morning facial treatment at their AWAY Spa, a tranquil enclave of dimly-lit serenity. Whisked away to a private room with our own walk-in closet and shower, we get settled in as our therapist Maria does a skin assessment for our prescription facials and then proceeds to steam, exfoliate, massage, and plump us into bliss using a hypo-allergenic array of [comfort zone] organic facial products. We’ve indeed found our bliss here at the W Muscat with a whatever, whenever weekend that has us relaxed and refreshed for what lies ahead.

Getting there The W Muscat is located in the capital’s beachfront Shatti Al Qurum resort area, adjacent to the Royal Opera House. It’s a 20-minute drive from Muscat International Airport and its central location makes it an ideal hub from which to branch out and explore the capital and its surrounding areas.

Contact

Want to book your own funky weekend in paradise? Call (+968) 2212-0000 or visit www.marriott.com.

THE EX O T IC C H MENU EESECAKE, AT HA RVES ON THE T

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

D e s t i n at i o n

Cars

Gaming

Y-FI

HOME-SAFE-HOME The Y Geek Squad rounds up four security gadgets that can keep the deadbolt secure while keeping you safe inside MAXIMUM PROTECTION

FIRE SAFETY With fire-related accidents going up every summer, it’s best to keep the insides of your home safe with the Nest S3000BWES. While it may seem just like a glorified smoke detector, it does come with its own set of prerequisites – namely, a splitspectrum smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, an inbuilt light that switches on and off depending on movement, and an app that gives you alerts when you’re on the move, or even the ability to shut off the alarm if it’s a matter you’ve resolved. The app can also speak to you and alert you on the location and type of smoke that’s being emitted. It’s all yours for RO45.8 from amazon.com.

Those familiar with the cartoon franchise, ‘Scooby Doo’, can attest to this: deception can be the key to solving crime. From creepy wall portraits with cutouts for eyes to camouflaged gear that blends in with the surroundings, there are so many ways to deceive an intruder. Taking a leaf from that book is the Maximus Smart Security Light – a svelte-looking light that also hides an HD camera underneath. The Alexa-ready smart device can also be paired to your smartphone and further be used to switch the device on and off, control the intensity of the light, or even assess the situation outside your home before answering the door. There’s also a microphone and speaker unit on the device if you’re looking to converse with guests – irrespective of whether they’re unwelcomed or not. The live-feed can further be stored on the cloud for remote access. Get this from amazon.com for RO163.7.

SMART LOCK For those who think that keys are so 20th-century, there’s an alternative to locking your home: smart locks. On top of the list lies the August Smart Lock 3rd Gen – a lock that for all purposes avoids the need for a physical key. The device makes use of an app on your phone to lock and unlock itself, while also keeping track of who uses the app to enter the home. The lock also syncs with Alexa, Google Assistant, Simplisafe, and Airbnb to allow access to guests. Installation takes less than ten minutes and, if done right, it can also alert you if the door is open or not. Buy it from amazon.com for RO43.47.

SMART THINGS

EDITOR’S PICK

IF SPENDING HUNDREDS OF RIYALS ON HOME SECURITY EVERY MONTH ISN’T AN OPTION, THERE’S A GADGET THAT CAN GET THE JOB DONE JUST AS EFFECTIVELY FOR LESS (WITH A ONE-TIME INVESTMENT UPFRONT). THE SAMSUNG SMARTTHINGS PROVIDES USERS WITH ALLENCOMPASSING SAFETY AND SECURITY OPTIONS WITH ITS RANGE OF DEVICES THAT REVOLVE AROUND THE SAMSUNG ADT SECURITY HUB. THE DEVICE COMES WITH ITS OWN SCREEN AND CAN BE PAIRED WITH SEVERAL OTHER SAMSUNG SMARTTHINGS-READY GADGETS SUCH AS LIGHTS, SMOKE DETECTORS, CAMERAS, MOTION DETECTORS, DOOR AND WINDOW INTRUSION DETECTORS, AND THE LIKE. YOU NEEDN’T PURCHASE SAMSUNG PRODUCTS TO HOOK YOUR DEVICE UP; ANY COMPATIBLE DEVICE WILL SUFFICE. THERE’S ALSO AN APP TO GO ALONG WITH IT – AND IT’S THE MOST RELIABLE SYSTEM CURRENTLY OUT THERE AT THIS PRICE POINT. THE BASIC PRICE OF THE STARTER KIT IS RO38.4 FOR TWO FREE WINDOW SENSORS AND A MOTION DETECTOR FROM AMAZON.COM.

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HEALTH

&

Health

BEAUTY

Fa s h i o n

Home

Fa m i l y

Sizzling

SUMMER NAILS

Mikaela Estera rounds up summer’s hottest nail art that will have your pointers, on-point

S

ummertime is one of the best seasons to highlight your nails with a touch of whimsy with some fun, colourful designs that can instantly add boost to any outfit or ensemble – from comfy-casual beachwear, to free-and-flowy garden party dresses and everything in between. Keen to dip your fingers into some creative new trends? Here are a few ideas to fuel your nail art addiction!

The Half-Moon

To achieve the perfect half-moon, it’s best to create a paint-in-the-lines border by using hole reinforcer stencil stickers. Cut them horizontally and adhere them to the lower end of your nail, and paint over that section with the colour of your choice.

Gently remove the sticker afterwards after the polish is dry and apply a top-coat to seal everything in.

Product we love: Avery Self-Adhesive Reinforcement Labels (650baiza).

(Photo credit: instagram.com/aliciatnails)

Over the rainbow

Can’t choose a colour? We got you! So why not try them all? Rainbow-coloured nails allow you to customize the colours you want to have and apply them using a precise nail art brush. It might take time and a little practice to achieve the perfect arch of colour – but it’s definitely worth it as this trend doesn’t get any more summery-! And anyway, practice makes perfect.

Product we love: Nicpro Micro Detail Brush Set (RO8.4).

(Photo credit: www.seetheworldinpink.ca)

Beads, please!

Want to literally accessorize your nails? Go for beads! To do this, apply a clear base-coat to your nails. Once dry, apply tiny ‘seed beads’ using a nail glue according to the style you prefer.

Make sure they dry up properly and apply two coasts of clear polish on top to make sure the beads stay in place.

Pretty creative, huh?

Product we love: SeedBeadExplosion Seed Beads (RO2.6) (Photo credit: Pinterest/ Mary Design Nails)

Tutti-frutti

Unfraid to go all-out with the tropical summer vibe? Then fruit-slice nail art is about as juicy as it gets. And don’t worry – you don’t have to put your drawing skills to the test to get the look. Instead, we recommend using a nail art fruit sticker to achieve this style – simply put a clear layer of polish as your base, peel off the sticker and delicately apply to your nail exactly where you want it with a pair of Tweezers. Seal it in place with another layer of clear polish and wait for your nails to dry. Job done! Now, time to hit the beach!

Product we love: 3D Summer Series Fruit Series Nail Art Stickers For Manicure (RO2.3).

(Photo credit: www.estheticnet.com) *All products available online at Amazon.com.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

LAVENDER BLUE

The summer’s hottest shade isn’t fivealarm fuchsia or even sunshine-y egg-yolk yellow. Instead, summer 2019’s shade du jour opts for subtle splendour that you’ll want to pluck straight from the field.

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

T t Ge

k o o L e h

, reet ook t s l gh e hi get the h t d to you to n e gh ps e hi att hel h t rr Fromlee Sta Ash

Stand out from the crowd in an eye-catching pair of denim-look-alike jeggings that will keep you comfortable an un-constrained while running errands in the heat. We’re coveting these purple pair from M&S which can be yours for just RO7.

We love the gossamer-like, flowy fabric of this off-the-shoulder lavender pleated dress from H&M. Light and breathable for summer, make it your go-to wardrobe staple for an evening dining out alfresco with friends. Grab it off the hanger for RO30.7.

If going monochromatic isn’t your thing, feel free to mix it up by adding a pop of colour or print that accents your lavender ensemble. We love this punchy floral puffsleeved top from Zara and are pretty sure you will too! Snag it for RO17.9 and pair it with those sleek purple trousers!

When it comes to selecting a piece of jewelry to complete your look, nothing complements shades of lavender better than a glint of gold. We love the delicate detailing and textures used in these drop-hoops from Max. Wear them for just RO1.5!

A summer satchel is essential – but why not make yours go the extra mile by investing in a carry-all that does double-duty as a chic backpack? This subtle lavender/lilac version from Max lets you go hands-free in style. Own it for RO7.8.

Why see the world through rose-tinted glasses, when we’re seeing an allnew perspective in lavender? Don these over-sized pair from Aldo Accessories for just RO6.1.

Anchor your ensemble in lavender’s ultimate colour companion – yellow! We love the summery buttercup shade of these anklestrap chunky-heeled sandals from Call It Spring! Wear them for RO15.3.

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Reviews

CROSS-BORDER CUISINE

YUMMY

The distinctive culinary traditions of India and Pakistan reflect flavours honed to perfection over generations.

A subcontinent OF FLAVOUR

As Pakistan celebrated its Independence Day on August 14, and India its Independence Day on August 15, we’re honouring the culinary heritage of both nations with a showcase of their most mouthwatering recipes

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hey say that to truly understand a culture and its people you must break bread with them. Food is the way we communicate without words, it’s the way we identify a sense of place and belonging amongst ourselves, it’s also a way we show love unto others.

And this week we’re celebrating the indelible flavours of India and Pakistan as both nations mark their National and Independence Days within a day of one another.

The first inclination that comes to mind when considering both cuisines – which vary widely across both nations’ various ethno-cultural regions – is spice. And you wouldn’t be wrong! But there are many other similarities and differences that make both cuisines shine as standouts of the subcontinent!

For starters, Pakistani cuisine tends to be spicier than its Indian counterpart and meat such as mutton and beef are

integral in Pakistani dishes, with dhal or vegetables kept as accompaniments rather than the main stars of the meal which is more common in India – especially with its vast variety of lentil dishes.

Yet both nations do share some culinary similarities that stretch as far back as the Mughal Empire, such as dhal chawal, biryani, halwa puri, and lassi drinks found on both sides of the border. Pakistani cuisine tends to use less oil in its preparation, while Indian cuisine often contains more commonly-used spices such as mustard seeds and asafetida.

Both cuisines however use a shared base of essential spices and aromatics that include cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, mace, nutmeg, turmeric, chili powder, cumin seeds, bay leaves, and brown and green cardamom pods. So, you’ll want to make sure you have these spice-rack staples on-hand for these delicious regional recipes!

Badami Murgh Korma This North Indian comfort food staple gets its creamy texture from the addition of almond meal and can be made as mild or as spicy as you like!

Ingredients: § 2 pounds skinless chicken thighs (cut into 2-inch pieces, bone-in or boneless) § 1 cup fresh, unsweetened yogurt § ½ tsp turmeric powder 3. Add all the whole spices (cinnamon, § 3 to 4 Tbsp vegetable/canola/ cloves, peppercorns, mace, and sunflower oil cardamom pods) and fry for 1 § 3 large onions (finely-chopped) minute, or till spices are slightly § 2 tsp garlic paste darker in color. § 2 tsp ginger paste 4. Now, add all the powdered spices § 2-inch cinnamon stick (coriander, cumin, red chili, and § 6 cloves nutmeg) and fry till the oil begins § 10 peppercorns to separate from the masala (spice § 2 pieces of mace mix). Stir often to prevent burning. § 5 green cardamom pods (split) If required, sprinkle in a little water § 2 tsp coriander powder from time to time to prevent the § 1 tsp cumin powder masala from burning. § ½ tsp red chili powder 5. Next, add the marinated chicken/ § ¼ tsp nutmeg powder yogurt/turmeric powder mixture § 4 Tbsp finely-ground almond and the almond meal and stir well. meal The gravy for this dish should be § Salt to taste thick. § 2 Tbsp fresh green coriander 6. Cover and cook until the chicken is (finely-chopped) tender. If you find the dish is getting dry or the chicken or masala is Method: sticking to the bottom of the pan, § Put the chicken, yogurt, salt to add a ½ cup of warm water and taste and turmeric powder in a stir gently and thoroughly. Once deep mixing bowl. Stir well and the chicken is cooked, if there’s too coat all the chicken completely. much gravy, reduce it by removing Keep aside to marinate for an the lid and continuing to cook. hour. § When the chicken has marinated, 7. When done, remove the pan from heat and put the korma into a heat the vegetable/canola/ serving dish. sunflower cooking oil in a deep, 8. Garnish with chopped fresh heavy-bottomed pan over coriander and serve piping hot with medium heat. When hot, add the bread like Chapatis, Parathas or onions and fry till almost pale Naans (leavened flatbread baked in golden. Add the ginger and garlic a tandoor or oven). pastes and fry for 1 minute. Stir often to prevent burning.

(Source: www.delish.com)

Balochi Chicken Karahi

Rice Kheer

This fragrant dish from Pakistan’s western Balochistan is redolent with delicate spices and draws influence from the region’s proximity to Persia.

This lushly-sweet rice pudding dessert is a popular dish for Eid in both India and Pakistan and is happily enjoyed on both sides of the border!

Ingredients: § 1 whole chicken (cut into 16 pieces) § 2 lemons § 4 chopped green chilies § 1 cup clarified butter/oil § 1 bunch chopped green coriander § ½ kg, chopped tomatoes § 1 tsp crushed black pepper § 1 tsp roasted cumin § 1 Tbsp ginger-garlic paste § 2 Tbsp red chili powder § 1 Tbsp Karahi masala § 2 Tbsp chopped ginger § Salt to taste

1 tsp crushed black pepper, 1 tsp roasted cumin, and 1 cup clarified butter/oil. § Continue cooking over mediumMethod: flame until the chicken is cooked § Wash the chicken and put it in in through. At the end, add in 2 a large pot over low-flame. Add in Tbsp chopped ginger, 4 chopped 1 Tbsp ginger-garlic paste and a green chilies, a handful of green pinch salt. Cook it until the water coriander, and the juice of two dries. lemons. Serve hot. § Add in chopped tomatoes and cook (Source: www.hamariweb.com it till their liquid reduces. Then, add in 1 Tbsp of the karahi masala, Photo credit: www.khappa.pk)

Ingredients: § 5 cups milk, full cream § ¼ cup rice (washed) § ½ cup sugar § 10-12 raisins § 4 green cardamom pods § 10-12 almonds, slivered and blanched Method: § Boil the rice and milk in a deep pan. § Simmer over low flame, stirring occasionally till the rice is cooked and the milk becomes thick. § When done, add sugar, raisins and cardamom pods.

§ Stir until the sugar is dissolved properly. § Transfer into a serving dish and garnish with almonds. § Serve hot or chilled. § You can also add broiled saffron or rosewater if desired to enhance its flavour.

(Source: www.food.ndtv.com)

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REVIEWS

Info Box

ge -Ran

PLATES (FROM AROUND THE WORLD) Main floor, Al Araimi Boulevard Mall, Seeb Opening hours: 11:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m.

(Mon-Wed) 11:00 a.m. till 12 midnight (Thurs-Sat) 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. (Sunday) Contact: (+968) 9488-7595 Dinner for two: RO15.5

Mid

Verdict : 9/10 SERVICE 7/10 FOOD 7.5/10 AMBIENCE

Quality global cuisine, freshly-prepared, and at extremely reasonable prices.

PLATES (FROM AROUND THE WORLD) THERE’S MORE MOUTHFUL TO THIS NEW SEEB EATERY THAN JUST ITS NAME, AS TEAM Y EXPANDS OUR GLOBAL PALATE WITH SOME INTERNATIONAL FARE THAT AIMS TO PLEASE

W

hile much is still yet to open in the new Al Araimi Boulevard Mall in Seeb, what it can currently boast is a growing array of unique new eateries aimed at drawing in the soon-to-arrive crowds. At least, we sure hope so.

The mall itself is beautifully laid-out, with plenty of natural lighting thanks to its vaulted glass ceilings. While a handful of boutique shops are currently open, it’s the A&H department store and the lower-level Carrefour that seem to be busiest on the Thursday evening we headed over, bellies rumbling.

With a range of restaurants to choose from – there’s Mexican and burgers, crêpes and coffee shops, and even a Monkey Cookies outlet to satisfy the sweet tooth. But tonight we fancy a bit of everything, which is why we make a beeline for Plates (From Around The World) a restaurant that pretty much does what it says on the tin – offer an array of dishes from a variety of world cuisines that aim to take diners on a global culinary journey.

A tall order indeed. But our hunger keeps us open-minded, and we head in nonetheless.

Of all the eateries currently open, Plates has the most customers dining in we note. Greeted by a friendly hostess we’re directed to a bright blue booth near the galley-style kitchen pass.

The colour palette is vibrant with primary hues and wooden accents lending it a warmand-welcoming family feel. There also a large outdoor terrace which is sure to do well in the cooler months.

Throughout our meal the service is fast and attentive, with the manager-on-duty approaching us and the surrounding tables to ensure the meal was to our satisfaction. As we flick through the iPad menu, we explore the vast array of cuisines on offer. There’s Asian, European, American, African and Arabic sections, along with a modest dessert offering and an expansive selection of fresh mocktails and juices.

Eating with our eyes, we opt for a portion of their Thai red curry with chicken after the

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image on the iPad seals the deal – and a portion of British fish and chips. Worlds apart, no? But here, you’ll find them side-by-side on the menu. After punching our order, the waitress apologetically returns to our table to inform us that the fish for the fish and chips has run out for the day. Hoping that means the catch is fresh, we make do and keep scrolling, ultimately setting a platter of their Thai prawn noodles, with two fresh lemon mints to wash it down.

Both dishes arrive together quickly and are piping hot with extra points for quality of plating and presentation. The noodles, tossed fresh from the wok, are fragrant with lemongrass, plump fresh sautéed prawns, ginger, and spring onions.

They’re an absolute flavour-bomb with every bite, each long, flat noodle delicately coated with a sweet-soy sauce.

The Thai red chicken curry came as a bit of a surprise that left us wondering if, perhaps, we missed a footnote on the menu that these dishes were fusion. Rather than the fluffy jasmine rice and brimming bowl of red curry as shown in the image on the iPad menu, what arrives (while beautifully-presented!) is a copper tureen of biryani rice, and a very small bowl of curry.

Bemused, we tuck in anyway, keeping that open mind. The chicken pieces were beautifully-

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

cooked and tender, but a Thai red curry the gravy was not. Thick, rather than creamy and soup-like, it was more like an Indian-style of preparation similar to a korma. While flickers of those distinctive Thai flavours were indeed there in the bowl, the dish lacked authenticity – the rich sweetness of the coconut milk, the tang of kaffir lime, and the heat of red Thai bird chilies.

Instead it looked as though the dish had been tossed with shredded fenugreek leaves – much more commonly found in Indian dishes. If this was meant to be a fusion dish, so be it. And while not what we’d expected, its own unique flavour profile kept us going back for more.

To cap off our meal we eye a delicate, creamy strawberry pot off their dessert menu, but once again our waitress returns to inform us that it’s not available but offers us a crème brûlée as a replacement. Once it arrives, we’re so glad she did. The perfect crystallized sugar sheen and its satisfying snap under our spoons gives way to a gorgeously sweet custard that’s not too eggy and completely moreish. It’s delicious.

We pack up the rest of our biryani rice for takeaway and ultimately head out of Plates happy, in spite of a few kinks – which are sure to be ironed out the longer the restaurant is open. We’ll definitely be planning a second trip back. ■ Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com.

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