Beating the odds
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IN SPITE OF BEST EFFORTS BEING MADE AT A GRASSROOTS LEVEL, OMAN’S FERAL ANIMAL POPULATION CONTINUES TO GROW UNCHECKED. IS THERE A HUMANE ANSWER TO THIS ANIMAL WELFARE CRISIS? Y INVESTIGATES THE MERITS AND RISKS OF A HOTLY-DEBATED SOLUTION THAT COULD HELP REIGN IN A WAVE OF OVERPOPULATION.
FIRST DRIVE: THE TRIED-AND-TESTED GENESISNOVEMBER G80 24 / ISSUE 258 01
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FASHION: FESTIVE FROCKS FOR A DAZZLING DIWALI
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YUMMY OMAN: THE BEST OF BIRYANI
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EDITOR’S
NOTE
Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.
IN THIS ISSUE… T
hey’re our four-legged friends; our companions and furry family members. They’re also our greatest collective shame. Chances are you’ve seen their eyes peering out from under street-side dumpsters, or caught their shadows flitting across a busy street at night. You’ve probably even heard their cries. Hungry, feral, and free, Oman’s population of stray animals keeps growing. The root cause of their very existence down to the unsettling reality that, for many of these cats and dogs, they began their life as family pets who for various reasons were abandoned to fend for themselves when their owners moved on. While once domesticated, many of these abandoned animals were never spayed or neutered – a catalyst that’s led to the unchecked rise in their numbers over the years with many female cats producing up to two litters annually. You do the math… What’s needed is a humane solution that balances the needs of the community with the welfare of these animals who have been left astray through no fault of their own. In this week’s cover story, we investigate one promising solution that has worked throughout Europe and North America but has proved contentious here in the GCC – trap-neuter-release. Also in this issue, registration continues for our annual Y Portrait By A Nation event taking place ahead of the 49th Oman National Day on November 18. So be sure to flip to Page 18 to learn more as children from across the Sultanate gear up once again to paint their patriotism! Plus, this week in Fashion we bring you some festive frocks in celebration of Diwali, explore the healing properties of Ain Al Thowarah hot spring in Destination, round-up the best biryanis in Yummy Oman, and hit the road in the tried-and-tested Genesis G80! 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
PHOTOGRAPHER Ismail Al Farsi DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan MANAGER – DIGITAL MEDIA SALES Umair Mehmood
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contents OCT
Your Oman 08 News Ahli Islamic launches Qitaf cash prize account 08 News Mazoon Dairy launches sales of fresh milk
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This Week 11 Movies In ‘The Farewell’, when Billi finds out her grandmother has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and only has a short time left, her family goes to great lengths to hide it from her so she can live her last days to the fullest.
Features 12 Wild – and free As the Sultanate continues to grapple with a burgeoning population of stray and feral animals, finding a humane solution requires a new approach. Y investigates the benefits – and concerns surrounding the practice of trap-neuter-release. 16 Coffee with Y We sit down with one local company whose mission and work are helping to make the dreams of immigrating abroad a reality for residents in Oman. 18 Y Portrait By A Nation Registration is now open for the sixth edition of Y’s Portrait By A Nation as youth in the Sultanate get ready to paint their patriotism ahead of the 49th Oman National Day!
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Cars and Adventures 22 Destination Ain Al Thowarah 24 First Drive The tried-and-tested Genesis G80 28 Game Review October’s top new releases
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Health and Beauty 29 Health Beating the odds with breast cancer
Food and Drink 32 Yummy Oman Rice of life – the best biryanis 34 Taste Test Turkish House
30 Fashion Dazzling Diwali
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Oh, snap! Hip-hop queen Nicki Minaj has just proven that she’s the ultimate joker. The rapper recently trolled her social media followers big time, allegedly confirming in a post that she was going to collaborate with Grammy Award-winning songstress Adele on an upcoming new single – and they’d already recorded the track and shot the video which she described as epic. Nicki also teased to her fans that the song would be featured on Adele’s next album. Now, as you might expect, people went crazy over the news – leading Nicki to clear the air on Twitter by explaining that the whole think was just a joke. In a Tweet she said: “I thought everyone could clearly see I was being sarcastic. Now, I have to go to Adele’s studio and steal some files. Who’s in the UK – I got a job for you!” Way to go gettin’ our hopes up Nicki… Jenn breaks the internet Rom-com icon Jennifer Aniston dons the mantle once held by Kim Kardashian for ‘breaking the internet’. The ‘Friends’ star recently made her début on Instagram and almost immediately broke a Guinness World Record – earning one million followers in five hours and 16 minutes. That’s the fastest time for any Instagram account, like, ever, to reach the millionth mark – and that figures now skyrocketed to 15.1 million followers. That’s 11 million in less than two days. We’re just gonna sit back and let that sink in! Riddle us this! The new production of ‘Batman’ is still in its casting stage – and, already, some pretty big (millennial) names have signed on to bring DC Comics’ infamous cast of Gotham characters to life. Donning the cape as Batman will be ‘Twilight’ leading man Robert Pattinson – a controversial choice for some; Zoe Kravitz has also just been signed to play Catwoman; and, Jonah Hill was in talks 06
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to join the cast as well but has since pulled out of the production. Now, ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ and ‘There Will Be Blood’ star Paul Dano has just confirmed that he’ll be bringing to life the wickedly weird and frighteningly disturbed character of The Riddler! A big cast with big shoes to fill after Joaquin Phoenix’s recent turn as the Joker. Que bella! Model Bella Hadid has been named the most beautiful woman in the world. According to a report in the Daily Mail which quoted Harley Street facial cosmetic surgeon Dr. Julian De Silva, Hadid’s features sync up with the so-called ‘Golden Ratio of Beauty Phi’ a formula that follows the ancient Greeks concept of perfection. As reported in the Daily Mail, the 23-year-old Hadid had a 94.35 per cent accuracy to the ratio’s formula – which measures facial proportions in a manner that posits that the length of an ear, for example, should be equal to the length of the nose; or and width of an eye should be equal to the distance between them. How ridiculous is that?! Beyoncé, actress Amber Heard, and Ariana Grande were also named after Hadid. Beauty’s in the eye of the beholder, we say! A close call for Gaga Pop icon Lady Gaga is recovering after falling off the stage during a recent performance in Las Vegas. The incident occurred after a fan in the audience picked her up – only to drop her when he lost his balance, leading to them both falling off the stage. Speaking to all her fans on Instagram, Gaga has since announced that she’s doing fine and recuperating well after the accident. Speedy recover Mother Monster!
A love letter to fans K-Pop supergroup BTS have just released the music video for their new track ‘Make It Right’ – and it’s a total love-letter to their legion of fans known as the ‘BTS Army’. The clip illustrates their interactions with all their fans through a super-cool animation. Plus, the song was cowrote by Ed Sheeran and appears on the B-side of their album ‘Map of the Soul: Persona’. And English re-mix of the track, featuring Lauv is also in the works! Deep ocean Frank Ocean is back with a new track after having not released any new music since 2017’s ‘Provider’, plus a 2018 cover of Audrey Hepburn’s ‘Moon River’. The new song is called ‘DHL’ and he recently débuted it at his New York City nightclub. We’re super-stoked to have Frank back on the scene with new music and can’t wait for more! Fresh Lewis Singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi has just dropped the music video for his new track called ‘Bruises’ off his début album ‘Divinely Uninspired’. We’re expecting big things from Lewis – as his is the fastest-selling début album by a British artist in eight years! 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 The Breakfast Show with Dan and Maya.
YOUR
OMAN
A
AHLI ISLAMIC LAUNCHES QITAF CASH PRIZE ACCOUNT
hli Islamic, the Islamic Banking window of Ahli Bank, celebrated the inauguration of the new Shari’a compliant prize-draw account ‘Qitaf ’
under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Hamad Oman and enjoy free internet and mobile banking bin Saeed Al Awfi, Minister of Agriculture services. and Fisheries. The Board of Directors and the The account holders will be eligible for weekly, Executive Management of the Bank, along with monthly, quarterly and special occasion draws a group of senior guests attended the event at from the beginning of 2020. The weekly draws Crowne Plaza Muscat. offer guaranteed cash prizes for two winners from Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Yousuf bin Salim each branch of Ahli Islamic. Each winner will Al Rawahi, Deputy General Manager and Head be rewarded with RO250. The monthly draws of Ahli Islamic said, “Qitaf, which is based on the will be held during eight months of the year. The Islamic Mudaraba principle, offers customers the quarterly draws, which will take place in March, opportunity to invest their capital in profitable June, September, and December will offer prizes assets while at the same time giving them the of RO100,000 each quarter to one winner across opportunity to qualify for cash prizes, through a the bank’s branch network. The bank will conduct draw system, subject to criteria set by the bank.” a special draw for customers in January 2020, Qitaf account holders can win valuable prizes where 50 winners will win 1,000 for each winner, worth more than one million Omani rials in prizes with five winners from each branch. Aspecial draw through a savings and rewards account and can will be held on the occasion of the 50th National withdraw cash through OmanNet ATMs across Day rewarding 50 winners with RO 2,000 each.
MAZOON DAIRY KIA UNVEILS LAUNCHES SALES FIRST EVER 2020 OF FRESH MILK PEGAS IN OMAN
O
man’s flagship dairy, Mazoon Dairy, has announced the launch of fresh milk and dairy products in the Omani market. This marks the nationwide launch of Mazoon’s first dairy product on shelves across supermarkets and shops in the Sultanate this October, followed by its full range of products including, laban, cheese, ice-cream, and juices in the coming period. His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Saeed Al-Awfi, Oman’s Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mazoon Dairy board members, and staff gathered to mark the milestone occasion at the company’s head office in Rusayl. They were joined by a group of schoolchildren who participated in the occasion with the minister and the board members.
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Mazoon has launched its first product in record time, barely 24 months after the stone-laying ceremony in October 2017. The farm has the capacity to house 25,000 cows, while the factory has the most advanced technology to produce one million litres of dairy products per day. This is in line with Oman’s strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in the food sector and produce farm-fresh dairy products available to customers a few hours after production. Mazoon Dairy is one of the most technologically advanced dairy companies in the region, with stateof-the-art facilities and equipment, from cow-milking and product packaging, to a logistic network that ensures fresh products reach every Omani village. It also adopts environmentally friendly practices across its business functions.
A
t an exclusive function, held at Sheraton Oman Hoel, Kia unleashed a wave of excitement with the unveiling of the first-ever compact sedan – the all-new 2020 Pegas. The Guest of Honour was Mr. Yoon Tae-Hyeon, General Manager, Sales, Regional Headquarters, Kia Motors Corporation. The event was attended by guests from the public and private sectors. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Yoon Tae-Hyeon said: “Kia Motors is passionately involved in providing mobility solutions to its various clients across the globe. With a truly global presence, Kia’s sales presence spans 190 countries and we have established state-of-art manufacturing facilities and R&D centres in all of the world’s strategic automotive markets. With about 2.81 million vehicle sales worldwide in 2018 and generating revenues of $49 billion, Kia Motors stands tall among the Top 100 Global Brands year-after-year. The secret of Kia’s rise lies in its precision for unique design, path-breaking technology and strong customization for its clients. The all-new Pegas is one such
customization coming from our Far East manufacturing facility as an ideal solution to our fleet-owners to meet their quick mobility and affordable requirements.” The Kia Pegas boasts a stylish exterior design and a spacious interior, as well as an array of convenience features and technologies. Providing owners with a sense of quality that goes beyond the expectations of compact sedan buyers, the cabin is finished with a series of design flourishes and high-quality materials. The dashboard’s modern design is matched by circular rotatable air vents, finished with chrome and black high-gloss bezels, while speakers are integrated into the doors behind specially designed grilles that extend backwards beneath the arm rest. The Kia Pegas is powered by Kia’s efficient 1.4-litre ‘Kappa’ MPI (multipoint injection) gasoline engine which produces maximum output of 95PS at 6,000 rpm and maximum torque output of 132 Nm at 4,000 rpm. It comes with daily convenience features such as Rear Parking System, folding remote key-fob, 360-degree rotatable air-ducts, and audio remote control.
correspondence
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WE ASKED:
How can Oman better support the needs of its stray animal population? Rather than neutralizing feral dogs and cats, could a mandatory spay/ neuter program be a humane alternative? GEORGINA BENISON
TWIX KER
People have the wrong mindset of stray animals. Children should be taught that animals are their friends and they should stop throwing stones. The solutions we can reach together involve educating owners, legislation, pet-owning registration, (ie: like owning dogs), vaccination, and sterilisation.
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neutering. Here, animals are caught or collected, and then neutered. They’re also vaccinated against diseases like rabies, dewormed, and ridden of fleas. Then, they’re returned to their habitat, where – because of pack mentality, they keep other, unneutered animals from entering their territory. Thus, the number of animals decreases slowly at the rate of natural mortality. People also become more positive towards them when they are fewer and healthier.
DEBATE OF THE WEEK
Killing stray animals is never a humane or final solution to an over-population problem. The issue in Oman is funding rather than anything. I believe that in the Emirates they have a state-funded programme where stray animals on the street are taken in for spaying and then returned to the same place. If stray animals are simply destroyed, then other strays will move in to take their place (at a dustbin/near a restaurant for example). The problem becomes infinite, unsolvable. But if strays - and here I mean cats especially - are returned, they will defend their territory, and they will live healthier lives (the females will not be burdened with twice-yearly litters). The problem is finite. Many places in Europe simply don’t have a stray animal problem anymore because of their perseverance in CNR – capture-neuter-return drives. Volunteers and paid staff could implement a methodical system of capturing area-by-area, and vets would be rewarded properly for their medical services. With dogs, the issue is harder as stray dogs are not tolerated here in Oman. So, capture, neuter and then try for adoption is probably the only humane alternative.
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New Debate:
It’s better for the government to monitor and evaluate progress too, thus ensuring we create humane change.
PARUL JAIN
As the climate crisis continues, time is running out for collective action to reverse its effects on a global scale. What steps would you like to see Oman take towards greater sustainability?
Share your view with us and you could be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.
Iwao Fujita right said – “I believe all animals were created by God to help keep man alive.” Stray animals are equally-important for our ecosystem – though they can be an utter nuisance as they urinate and defecate on roads and, when they end up under the wheels of a car, the situation worsens. Sometimes, they even bite. Strays can be categorized as those who were abandoned by their owners, and those born on the street. There are also three solutions – sheltering, killing, and neutering. Sheltering is not realistic as money and resources may not be enough. Nor is killing these animals a sustainable solution – as there is no easy, costefficient, or humane way to neutralize an animal. Moreover – Oman is a peaceful country and believes in the philosophy of ‘live and let live’, thus we’re left only with
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STUDENTS, STAFF, AND DIGNITARIES GATHER FOR A NIGHT OF ACHIEVEMENT AT THE BEACONHOUSE PRIVATE SCHOOL’S ANNUAL AWARDS CEREMONY
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MOVIES MOVIES
Saand ki Aankh Cast: Prakash Jha, Tapsee Pannu, Bhumi Pednekar
Friends 25th: The One With The Anniversary Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer They were there for us all through the 90s and now fans can return the favour with a very special screening at VOX Cinemas for the ‘Friends’ 25th anniversary. On-air for ten years – a lifetime in television years – ‘Friends’ was one of the 20th-century’s best-loved American sitcoms. Now, super-fans
The Farewell Cast: Awkwafina, Tzi Ma, Shuzhen Zhao
of the series can bring their own friends to reunite with Monica, Chandler, Joey, Ross, Phoebe, and Rachel to watch four iconic episodes shown in 4K. And while, this isn’t a film per se – it’s definitely a screening we’ll be tuning in for for a nostalgic laugh!
If you knew that a loved one only has a short time left, would you break the news to them – or would you keep it secret and let them make the most of their remaining days? This dilemma is what Billi (Awkwafina) faces. A head-strong ChineseAmerican woman, Billi returns home to China when she learns that her beloved grandmother, Nai Nai, is diagnosed with terminal cancer. In an effort to unite all their family members with her one last time – without Nai Nai discovering the truth – they stage an impromptu wedding. Whether they’ll succeed or not is another story but be warned – you’ll be crying your eyes out at this tear-jerker of a film.
This film from acclaimed scriptwriter Tushar Hiranandani, follows the inspiring tale of sisters Chandro and Prakashi Tomar. Now in their sixties, the two women are as fierce, strong, and daring as ever – training since they were young girls as India’s most formidable sharpshooters, unafraid of anything that might come their way. Expect a whole lot of girl-power from this feel-good flick!
Isa Pa, with Feelings Cast: Carlo Aquino, Maine Mendoza, Cris Villanueva
Mara, a disheartened architecture grad who failed the board exam meets Gali (Carlo Aquino), a deaf sign language teacher who wants to prove that he can dance the same way hearing people can. Despite their differences, Mara and Gali find support through each other and develop a connection. But the closer they get, and the deeper their feelings become, the brokenness that pulled them close together threatens to tear them apart.
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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Wild- and fr (All images for illustrative purposes only. Photo credits: Shutterstock and Paul Reddington)
OMAN’S POPULATION OF FERAL AND STRAY ANIMALS IS STILL ON THE RISE – AND IT’S UP TO US TO FIND A HUMANE COMMUNITY-BASED SOLUTION. Y INVESTIGATES WHETHER THE ROOT OF OVERPOPULATION IS THE LACK OF BASIC TNR (TRAP-NEUTER/ SPAY-RELEASE) PROGRAMS AND IF FOSTERING STRAY ANIMALS IS THE WAY FORWARD 012
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ree
...
T
he sincere stare of an animal can convey a thousand words. Perhaps it’s sincerity that we see as Julie – a little kitten – looks at us with her eyes wide open as we pass by her on an unlit street in Azaiba near the post office. She can’t be more than a few months old and can barely stand on her own feet, purring as she scrambles for warmth at our feet on a cool night here in
Muscat. Perhaps it’s not pity that she needs – it’s a home and a loving family that can take care of her while she’s nursed to health with food that isn’t crumbs dropped by passers-by and water that isn’t leaky residue from the garbage bin she sleeps under. Her mother is nowhere to be seen, and its evident her fate lies in the hands of people who take pity on strays like her and cars stopping as she hurtles from one side of the road to another in search of food. We’ve since housed her in a safer part of a building and have given her a home to live in along with fresh food and water. But there remains a clowder of some 25 stray cats in the neighbourhood that need a home (among other facilities for their upkeep), and the numbers have only been growing – aside from those whose fates are faced under the dreaded tyres of cars screaming past at speed. And these felines are only a few among a larger group of stray animals that reside in the back alleys and areas surrounding garbage bins, relying on a constant stream of waste food for their sustenance. Our investigation reveals that these include cats, dogs, and even birds – and the numbers are truly staggering. While official statistics of stray animals in Oman aren’t revealed, according to a 2016 World Health Organization study on the global spread of rabies, there are over 500 million dogs and some 200 million cats that don’t have a home worldwide. But there are solutions to this longstanding problem – some of which are humane, while others that aren’t. Either way, in an earlier interview with Nada al Moosa, the founder of Omani Paws – an animal welfare community with over 8,400 members – we learn that Muscat’s feral problem require an immediate solution. She says: “We’ve always advocated the TNR (trap-neuter-release) program. What it aims to do is control the stray population that would normally be rapidly growing over time, and it also gives us time to find homes for animals that really don’t have a place to go.” As per the Alley Cat Allies, an organisation based out of UK, the TNR program is believed to be a more humane approach to addressing community cat and dog populations. It does this by stopping the animal’s breeding cycle. This program includes spaying, which removes the ovaries and uterus of a female pet, while neutering involves a procedure to remove the testicles of a male dog or cat. Its aim is to ‘improve the co-existence between outdoor cats and dogs and humans in our shared environment’ and can help the well-being of these animals. Dr. Peter Nolosco, a veterinary surgeon working with the Capital Veterinary Centre LLC in Qurum sheds light on the topic. He says: “Aside from all the benefits that you normally see and hear about TNR, it has some additional health benefits too. “For instance, spaying or neutering can help prevent many infections and even breast tumours that can be malignant or cancerous. This can increase their life-spans and possibly even help them lead a long and healthy life.” Add to this list of stray cats and dogs the collared pets and [pedigreed] cats and you’ll realise that there’s a worrying situation of overpopulation on our hands. Nada says: “We don’t have an exact number, but we see dogs with collars and [pedigreed] cats being abandoned on the streets. The people who abandon them leave with different excuses.” Last year [in 2018] alone, Omani Paws rescued 20 breeds of cats and three German shepherds – a huge number. Sadly, as she points out, only a few of these animals will be adopted by families or individuals. Samiksha Bose, an animal rights activist based in Oman is all for TNR too. She says: “The positives of the TNR program are aplenty and there’s no denying that it’s a great initiative to control the overpopulation of these animals. “If this is advocated and implemented across Oman, the burden on the system to take drastic alternatives that are heartbreaking will reduce greatly. Every animal has the right to live without fearing for its life or seeing another one of its own taken away from it.” While this may seem like a win-win situation for everyone, we come across its greatest shortcoming: cost. Currently, those residing in Oman can spend as much as RO25 to RO35 to neuter cats and RO45 to RO65 for dogs. Samiksha adds: “One thing is certain. Neutering, while being effective, is still quite an expensive process. But, a real animal lover will tell you that it’s worth the cost. Just the thought of saving another life is enough to have you shelling out money to assist the program. “This will be a great start. The next step would be rehabilitating all these animals. We must have the right transition between neutering, release, and OCT 24 - 30 / ISSUE 590
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rehabilitation; and by the end, our intention must be to create an eco-sphere where each animal has a home.” In pursuit of this, community members from groups such as Omani Paws, Muscat Dog Adoption, and The Wave Rescue all pitch in to aid the TNR program. For instance, earlier this month, the Muscat Dog Adoption community raised RO1,500 for the welfare of dogs in the country. Meanwhile, Moet, a blind cat from Oman who was rescued but lost her eyesight due to neglect, and her parents are now helping to raise funds to support the cause. With their goals set on the RO4,800 mark, they may be far from their hopes. But, the duo have already raised some RO520 (as of October 14, 2019) in the name of TNR. The solution to this problem seems simple enough; get feral animals spayed or neutered. But, even amid reason, there remains a small faction of the public that remain against the TNR program. One expat resident, who wishes to remain unidentified, is among those who doesn’t believe in it, citing it ‘inhumane’ and ‘against the will of nature.’ In an interview with Y, he tells us: “I am against the TNR campaign solely because it isn’t a natural process. It goes against what was intended, and that can cause an imbalance in the animal kingdom. “Imagine going around spaying or neutering cats and dogs, and coming to a phase where we’d have a shortage of animals. The cat population in Oman helps keep the rodent problem down and I feel it’s important to have them in our communities.” Even though his concerns are those raised across the globe by anti-TNR communities, there’s a growing belief that controlling the population will help the welfare of both the animals and the people that live together in one region. Hassan Ali Shaban, a media professional and an animal welfare activist, is among those who strongly support the program, citing: “You can go around saying that the TNR program is unnatural. But let me ask you this: what’s natural about creating large buildings and constructing roads in areas where these poor animals live? “There’s nothing natural about doing all that. You can make your big villas, drive your cars at high speeds, and throw your trash in areas that are normally where these poor dogs and cats reside. “Then how can you expect these animals to take care of themselves in situations they’re not accustomed to? That’s just not fair. So, we’re only right in taking the step to spay or neuter these feral animals to at least control the population.” Inadvertently, the program has also plugged a great scam: illegal breeding. In a sting operation in 2016, Y had uncovered instances of breeders nabbing pets from homes for the purposes of breeding. Sadly, 014
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the fate of many of these animals are unknown till date and those that were found were exposed to health problems from overbreeding. Thankfully, we learn that illegal breeding isn’t as prevalent as it once was, even if it still exists behind closed doors, with several breeders arrested by the Royal Oman Police (ROP). Our trip to Barka – an area that was once known for its illegal breeding activities – in search of pet breeders is met with no results. And the handful of pet shops we stumble upon fail to deliver us any intel on breeders. These pet shops, however, are a different story. Reeking of animal waste and peppered with droppings, the two shops we visit are a far-cry from what animal rights activists in the Sultanate stand for. While they don’t openly admit to selling any rare breeds (E.g.: huskies, pugs, bulldogs, etc.), we notice that those cats, dogs, and birds that are on display live in dire conditions that would be detrimental to their health. Our questions enquiring about the health and well-being of these pets are met with silence, though one expat worker tells us how “dogs and birds are taken in almost as immediately as they are brought into the shops.” He then adds: “These animals never stay in their cages for too long. A lot of Omani families come here to buy birds and dogs. So, we never keep them there for too long. Also, it’s better that they stay in these cages and in the A/C than out there in the heat where they will die of dehydration.” Pallavi Gosh, a member of the Omani Paws community and ‘mother’ to six cats and two dogs, is against buying pets: “Let’s not make a business out of animals. “Here we are, taking in and fostering stray cats and dogs until we can find them a good home and, on the other side, there’s a lot of evil being propagated. This is hurting the efforts of all the good people of Oman. “There’s nothing humane about displaying a dog in a cage that’s filled with its own feces. It’s painful to even think of it. I think we as a nation need to take a stand against these people by simply boycotting their services. “We have tens of thousands of feral cats and dogs out there that need a home, love, and attention they deserve. We can give them that first before feeding money into a system that barely works for the efforts of animals. “People like Nada al Moosa, Mariam al Zadjali, Zaid al Balushi, and many more – all strong humans who take in and offer foster homes to these little fur-balls of cuteness; their efforts are those that must be highlighted. “So, instead of spending your pennies on a dog from a pet shop, why don’t you shell them out for a dog that really needs a home and your love? “Just peek into the Omani Paws Facebook page to get an idea of how much in need we are of genuine animal lovers who can open up their homes to these lovely pets. “If it wasn’t for these kind people offering up their homes for foster care, several cute puppies and kittens wouldn’t be alive today. Your commitment and love can save lives – and it’s as simple as welcoming a little cat or dog into your home and making them a part of your life.” ■
THE
RIGHT MOVE
As more GCC residents look to immigrate to countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United States, we shed light on one company that’s pioneering a way to make immigration a stress-free process
I
mmigration is the greatest architect of cultures around the world. While some countries see it as a boost to their population, there’s no denying its long-lasting effects on cultures and tradition, and its far-reaching impact on a nation’s economy. Several countries in the GCC have thrived on an influx of expats; having workers flow into the country in search of jobs from the early 1970s, and eventually settling down to call their adopted countries home as they go through their walks of life. Some of these expats have also since taken on citizenships in these nations. But, this stream of workers is now seeing a steady shift from the GCC to countries such as Canada, Australia, Portugal, the US, and the like – and one man and his army of staff are on the forefront of the immigration game: Mr. Rajan Berry, and his enterprise, Global Vision Management Company. With clients coming in from all over the Sultanate and those from other countries such as India, Philippines, Egypt, Jordan,
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and Pakistan availing the services of Rajan and his team, the company has created a niche in a market that’s long required expertise and political know-how. With a combined experience in immigration of 15 years – working initially under the umbrella of an immigration consultancy as a regional head in Bahrain and Oman, Rajan went on to start up his own firm here in 2015. Speaking about his experience, he says: “Having learned that I could handle their services, I then thought to myself, why not do it on my own and work for my own? “That was a great feeling. It takes a lot of guts – leaving a handsome salary and starting up something of your own.” Perhaps it’s such risks that allows Rajan to empathise with those looking to immigrate to a country of their choice; leaving behind everything to create a new life on their own. And Rajan takes his job very seriously. With over 1,000 successful visas processed throughout his career, and several hundred more through his business venture, he’s among the top in his field in the country.
This week, we delve into what sets Rajan and his team apart from others in the game. Here’s an excerpt from our interview:
Y: What are some of the services you
offer to your clients?
RB: We are immigration consultants. Firstly, we make sure
you qualify for the programme. Once you do, we then start your process – and we’ll take care of you from the beginning to the end. All you need to do is provide us with the correct information.
Y: Why is it important to go through
expert channels when immigrating?
RB: There’s a wheel that has been invented. So, someone who
has done more than 1,000 successful cases will know more than an individual about immigration. As a client, it’s a very simplelooking website when you start applying. But each criterion has its own meaning for different things. When a client starts applying themselves, they’ll only add a lot of delays and frustrations, because there are lots of intricate procedures. Also, the immigration departments want consistency: they want each file to be in order. And, assuming you’ve done everything right all along alone…but made one mistake, only to have your application rejected can be disheartening. We, as consultants,
Y: Which are some of the countries in demand for immigration?
RB: Canada and Australia are in demand for immigration; they both need people
to move in. Meanwhile, the US, UK, and some other European countries have opened immigration for investors. So, they’re open through different channels. Canada itself has a multi-cultural society – and that’s a good thing. You have people from all parts of the world living together. And when that happens, the society becomes more vibrant.
Y: As a client, what are some points that must be kept in
mind while immigrating?
RB: Immigration is a form of resettlement, and we guide people properly on how to
resettle. When we talk about immigration, there’s a lot to keep in mind; starting from the points system, to the qualifying and documentation, and proof of funds when you require a settlement there. You must have some form of settlement funds to stay in these countries; you cannot be a liability on these governments. What we tell people is before you finish your immigration process, we suggest people to apply for jobs on portals and agencies. That way you can have leads by the time you begin the resettlement process to the place. Skills and communication play a very important role when you think about these countries. What we tell people is before you finish your immigration process, focus on skill development and social alignment tools rather than getting worried about the application processing. That way you can have leads by the time you begin the resettlement process.
Y: How important is it to manage expectations when applying for a visa to immigrate?
RB: We now have a good number of clients whose cases were successful and now they are referring our name to people in Oman and other countries. Client satisfaction is very important in this field of work – but that’s not to say everyone will get their visa the same way. What we can assure you is that we handle all cases equally and with care. All the details must go through the right channels. The submissions must be done on-time, and all documents must be in order. Your goal as the client is to focus on the settlement part as opposed to the documentation part. You can use that time worrying to focus on your skills – this could be language or professional ones.
check their applications from time to time. It’s our job. People come with a dream – and we do our best to get them there. Paying money and buying tension isn’t fair on you. We always tell our clients: don’t take the tension. Let us take that on our heads. What happens is that there could be changes in the immigration laws or the points system changes and, at that time, we would switch them over to another programme. That’s our job – to give you back-up plans.
Y: How long can the immigration
process take?
RB: While most programmes take eight to ten months,
there are others that can take longer depending on your points and criterion. Moreover, immigration isn’t a matter of chance. The goal is to fulfill the qualifying criteria. If they qualify for the criteria, then we’ll take his case up. If not, then we will have to say no. But there are chances that if you’re not qualifying in ten programmes, there could be an eleventh programme that you could qualify for but don’t know about it. For us, it’s important to stay updated daily. It may not be big changes, but small ones on technicality. This takes time, and some programmes open up only for a few weeks, and after months on end.
Global Vision Management Company is located at the Hatat Complex by the turn-in to Wadi Adai. For more details, visit www.gvmcvisa.com or contact them at (+968) 2456-7676. OCT 24 - 30 / ISSUE 590
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Powered by
Presents
49
In Association with
As the Sultanate gears up to celebrate the 49th Oman National Day, Y Magazine is bringing the nation’s young talent together once again to paint their patriotism with the 6th annual Portrait By A Nation competition.
Y
’s Portrait By A Nation returns for its 6th annual competition alongside Presenting Sponsor Ahlibank in honour of the 49th Oman National Day on November 18. Powered by Mazoon Dairy and Asian Paints Berger, and in Association with Mall of Muscat, Minara, OSCO Shapoorji Pallonji, and Staedtler, young artists from schools across the Sultanate will come together to create a unique piece of art as a lasting tribute to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. One of the biggest events of the year in Oman, Y’s Portrait By A Nation saw an impressive number of more than 2,800 entries received from children ages 5-17 yearsold from Muscat, Nizwa, Sur, Sohar, and Salalah last year. Children will receive a different sized canvas and a different portrait of His Majesty, across three age categories of competition: 5-9 years – Canvas size 20cm x 30cm 10-13 years – Canvas size 30cm x 40cm 14-17 years – Canvas size 40cm x 50cm Forty-nine (49) finalists will be selected from participants – 17 from the ages 5-9 category, and 16 each from the ages 10-13 and 14-17 age categories, with three winners chosen among them from each age category, for a chance to win prizes worth a total of RO2,550. Each winner will win a prize worth RO500 in each age category, while runners-up will win prizes valued at RO250 in each age category, and there will be RO100 for third place in each age category. Championing the patriotic heart of the nation through the artistic expression of the young generation, Y’s Portrait By A Nation will be featured across all of SABCO Media’s platforms, including Y Magazine, Merge 104.8, Al Wisal, and Virgin Radio Oman 100.9 FM.
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Portrait by A Nation Milestones: On-ground competition The competition will be held on Friday, November 8 in Nizwa and Salalah, Saturday, November 9 in Sur and Sohar, and on Friday November 15 and Saturday, November 16 in Muscat as, over two days, hundreds of children create their own special pieces of art on the canvasses given to them with a pre-printed sketch of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. This initiative not only encourages talent but provides children with a platform to bring out their best artistic efforts while taking pride in their work. Judging Panel Judging will take place on November 18, and the Y Portrait By A Nation judging panel will include sponsors, eminent local artists, and representatives of Team Y. The panel will select 16 winners from each age group for a total of 49 finalists. Awards function Conducted in a 5-star venue, the Y Portrait By A Nation awards function will be held on November 25 and will see sponsors interacting with the 49 finalists from the three age categories. The finalists, along with their families, will be invited to be awarded commendation certificates and prizes. The event will be followed by dinner. Special Coverage in Y Magazine After the competition, there will be special coverage in Y Magazine’s issue on November 28 which will feature the works of the young artists along with their interviews, and those from sponsors and eminent local artists.
How To Register • Register online at https://www.y-oman.com/pban2019/ • Call (+968) 2442-6900. • Or scan the QR Code right here Registration for participants in the interiors (Nizwa, Sohar, Sur & Salalah) closes November 2, 2019. Registration for participants in the capital area of Muscat closes November 9, 2019.
OCT 24 - 30 / ISSUE 590
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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
AIN AL THOWARAH
Swati Basu Das discovers the healing properties of this thermal oasis deep in South Batinah’s Nakhal district 022
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the spring waters since ancient times, it’s a healing tradition that continues. Tread the few steep steps down the walkway to access the stream where the pool water cascades out into a pebbled wadi and you’ll find a tickling surprise at your feet. Aside from a refreshing hot bath, the hot spring is also a natural foot spa, with schools of small fish shoaling with one sole purpose – to nibble on those dangling digits! Dipping our feet in the warm water they were quickly surrounded by these native Garra Rufa ‘doctor fish’ known for healing dermatitis. The size of minnows, they’re toothless and quickly (and tickly!) polished the dead skin from our soles for a polished pedicure, sans the cost. Hearing our surprised laughter, a visiting local, Mohammed Al Shamsi came over to chat. A frequent visitor to the hot spring, of the fish he explained: “It’s perhaps the most ancient way to treat the feet of many skin disorders and range. Following the meandering is highly effective – even more than those road towards the oasis we eventually costly pedicures done in the salons.” reach an expansive parking area Just an inch-and-a-half in length, these near the spring. A paved walkway is ‘little dermatologists’ offered a spa-like coursed in between a slender falaj, experience in the lap of nature, with the and the flowing stream of the natural warm water relieves our aching soles. hot spring – which feeds the falaj. Feeling pampered, it’s a sensation that’s These water channels irrigate the ticklish, somewhat strange, and most neighbouring farms and the thick certainly all-natural – making the trip plantation and rocky façades of the worth it. surrounding area provide ample Mother Nature is always benevolent; shade to visitors. we need only be receptive to her ways A popular spot with both villagers of communicating. And here, amid and visitors alike, the spot is the calming hot springs of Ain Al populated by vendors selling their Thowarah, we’re finding our footing (no he oasis towns of Oman’s impressive monuments – the Nakhal locally made wares. I spotted one pun intended), stress-free. sitting with a bizarre-looking vessel interiors are nothing short Fort. Now a cultural and historical of lush – with green groves museum, the fort is a witness over the which stored a mixed juice made of of palms, burbling aflaj and centuries to the illustrious history of local dates, honey, and tamarind. A refreshing glass cost us just 500 baiza. unparalleled vistas, they’re the perfect the region, built in 1834 during the A straight-path off the main shady escape from the heat that still reign of Imam Said Bin Sultan. seems to be clinging on even as we parking lot leads to a moderatelyBut this excursion to Nakhal enter mid-October. sized ‘natural bathtub’ filled with wasn’t to explore its lost traditions One such weekend escape that hot-spring water. It’s worth noting and historic landmarks. Instead, heralds some truly unique natural that the water in the pool isn’t passing through the village, we phenomena is the Wilayat of Nakhal. take a detour down a narrow road, boiling – but rather pleasantly An unspoiled spot, this wedge of the heavily lined with palms to nearby warm, attracting visitors for a quick, Sultanate stands effortlessly enigmatic Ain Al Thowarah. Meaning ‘to boil’ rejuvenating dip after a long drive. – thanks in part to its nearby unique When it comes to picnicking and in Arabic, this nearby stopover is hot springs that draws visitors seeking popularly known as the Nakhal Hot camping, the banks of the Ain Al out its healing properties. Thowarah stream seem to be the Spring Almost 120 kms from Muscat, chosen spot. It’s a locale that remains It’s a place that unfolds its scenic (about an hour and a half ’s drive), crowded on weekends – yet is still beauty at every turn. The gentle thick date plantations veil the in-sync enough with nature that rustling of the date palm fronds, approach to this majestic village in the essence of its tranquility stays the rays of sun glinting through the South Batinah, while the spine of unmarred. greenery, the trill of birdsong, and the Al Hajjar mountain range makes the sight of vendors toting fruit-filled Believed to be therapeutic, the for a fortified backdrop to its quaint waters of the hot spring carry a long baskets and cattle fodder evokes a splendour. Meaning ‘palm’ in Arabic, rustic, pastoralism. history of such testimonials. Ask any Nakhal is a mountain town that Protected by the high jebels on local and they suggest a bath in the showcases nature’s beauty and bounty all three sides, this verdant wadi pool to alleviate skin diseases, joint to the fullest – and is home to one of sources its hot spring water from the pain, and even to help regulate your the Governorate’s most architecturally hidden crannies of the mountain sleep cycle – having benefited from
T
TRAVEL GUIDE
HOW TO GET THERE
From Seeb, take Route 1 until you reach Barka and take the exit to connect on to Route 13. Follow Route 13 for about 40 minutes until you see the signs for Nakhal. Take the Nakhal exit and pass through the village, going by the Nakhal Fort along the way. Keep following the signs for Ain Al Thowarah and turn off towards the hot spring and drive for two kilometres until you reach the parking lot at the edge of the spring. GPS Coordinates: N23.3942° ; E57.8197°
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023
CARS ADVENTURES
GENESIS G80
FIRST DRIVE
I
t’s one of those brands that’s synonymous to South Korea’s luxury car market yet remains in a spectrum of vehicles in the Middle East you’ll only know if you know your cars well. Genesis is an unassuming, feature- and valuepacked alternative to pretty much any offering from Europe today, but with a dash of style and panache you’d best expect from someone who’s been throwing the dice for decades on-end. That’s impressive for a brand that marks its fouryear anniversary later next month. And even if the brand had been operating under a different moniker (that of its parent company) for the best part of a decade, its success in recent times can be pinned down to innovation and quality – two preeminent features that set it apart from other new entrant new models. Our tester for this week – the G80 – has been around for three years; débuting back in 2016 under the new identity, but its design language and tech carries over well even today in a market dominated by the Europeans.
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The tried-and-tested Genesis G80 sedan hits all the right notes – packing enough refinement and luxury to give even the best from Germany a thorough shakedown
The large, curvy headlamps have been sleekly executed and sit well with the large grille that makes up much of the fascia. Even in standard trim, it comes with HID headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Then there’s the shorter vent down below by the lip that houses the LED fog-lamps. Its limousine-like proportions come to life in its lengthy side profile. For most parts, the length remains well-disguised; the wheels are placed far from each other, cutting out the overhangs on the front and rear. At 4,990mm and 3,010mm, it’s longer in body and wheel-base (respectively) than a comparable Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and has significantly more rear leg room. Meanwhile, its posterior is uncluttered, with LED tail lamps, a no-fuss bumper with rear fog-lamps, integrated dual chrome-tipped exhausts, and that large, silver Genesis logo, ‘G80’ and ‘3.8’ badging to mark out the trim you’ve opted for. Inside, the G80 pulls out several trump cards, starting with a no-nonsense dashboard that houses a large and fancy Genesis-branded analogue clock,
a plethora of buttons to control your A/C and infotainment functions – all finished in high-quality plastics. Even the steering-mounted buttons and knobs to the (adaptive) radar-guided cruise control and audio functions feel expensive to the touch. The dashboard itself is finished in soft-touch materials, while the steering is wrapped in plush leather. Our tester was finished with wood trim, though the ‘Sport’ variant comes packing real and high-end carbon-fibre bits. On the tech front, there’s an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 4.2-inch colour screen on the instrument cluster. Aside from the usual audio and navigation pages, the former screen also displays in-car functions and is quick-witted enough to swiftly present pages. It isn’t as tech-savvy as, say, some German cars, but we hear the 2020 G80 takes cues from its larger sibling – the G90 – and comes with a completely revamped system with refreshed graphics and faster internals. Still, you get enough tech for your money’s worth. From the intuitive lane-keeping assist and collision avoidance systems to 360-degree around-view monitoring, nifty blind-spot monitoring, and tiredness monitoring systems, there’s just about everything you’d normally expect from a luxury sedan.
D e s t i n at i o n
Po s t c a r d s Fr o m
Y-Fi
Gaming
CARS
GENESIS G80 Specifications: • Engine: 3.8-litre V6 • Transmission: Eight-speed automatic • Power: 310hp • Torque: 398Nms Rear-wheel-drive Leather upholstery Rear seat controls Panoramic sunroof Electronic parking brake Radar-guided cruise control 14-speaker Lexicon audio 18-inch alloy wheels Analog clock Auto hold assist 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system 360-degree around view camera
Even in its base trim, the G80 feels like a proper luxury sedan. Our tester came fitted with captain’s chair seats in the rear and had car controls mounted on the leatherclad armrest; it also had a crisp, almost perfect-sounding 14-speaker aluminum-crafted Lexicon sound system. Couple that with the leg- and head-room and you’ll realise what the G80 is built for: long-distance chauffeuring. Suspension tuning (in the base- and mid-level variants) inches towards the softer side, and the ride aims to even out bumps and lean into corners for comfort in favour of a more performance-driven ride. The quality of the ride is fantastic – it even manages to keep away engine and road noise while cruising. Throttle-up hard and a muffled grunt enters the cabin, but it’s no match for the thumping sound system that gives Bose and even Harman/Kardon systems a run for dear life. Much of the heavy lifting of the near-twotonne vehicle lies in the hands of a
3.8-litre V6 engine if you choose the base variants. The top variant comes packing a 3.3-litre turbo V6 that puts more power to the ground. But, for the sake of our review, we stuck to the naturally-aspirated sixer. Putting out 310hp and 398Nms of torque, the G80 manages to cruise at high speeds comfortably. It hits the three-digit mark in some 6.5 seconds if you slam the pedal to the metal and take control of the eight-speed automatic transmission manually – but the car performs to its fullest potential as a cruiser when left in auto mode. The gearbox is speedier than its previous iterations and comes with a smooth-as-butter gear shift. In fact, evidence of shift is presented by the analog tachometer that drops and spikes revs as per your throttle inputs. But, for a car that focuses on ride comfort and quality more than performance, the G80 does present some interesting notions – especially if you’re looking to eke some speed out of it. The engine, for instance, is gutsy and revs hard in ‘Sport’ mode to keep the torque band working overtime through a wide band, and the steering wheel is wellweighted and with a slight bit of feedback relaying back through the axles and to the steering. All the power is put to the ground via the rear axles – but before you get excited, the traction
PUTTING OUT 310HP AND 398NMS OF TORQUE, THE G80 MANAGES TO CRUISE AT HIGH SPEEDS COMFORTABLY. IT HITS THE THREEDIGIT MARK IN SOME 6.5 SECONDS IF YOU SLAM THE PEDAL TO THE METAL AND TAKE CONTROL OF THE SHIFTS MANUALLY and ESP controls are intrusive enough to keep you from any tyre-smoking, oversteering hooliganism. Though, push the right buttons and you can, hypothetically, have the G80 wiggle its tail. We aren’t advocating erratic driving by any means – just noting the capabilities of this Korean limo. Brakes on the car are excellent and strong, though the pedal is a bit on the spongy side. We suspect that could be because our car was run-in as a tester for some months and had 18,000kms on the clock. Having put over 200kms of mileage ourselves with road-trips to the outskirts of Muscat, we learnt that the G80 can be as well-mannered as any of its Asian alternatives but with the build-quality, charisma, and eagerness we’ve long associated with the Germans and Brits. It also managed to impress us by excelling across the board: it’s well-equipped, lavish, and turns an eye towards its occupants; all for a bargain. The G80 is not only a fantastic car for its price or for the segment it competes in. It’s a fantastic car from every angle, nook, and cranny – period.
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CARS ADVENTURES
OH, CANADA!
The Canadian capital still remains one of the nation’s most vibrant – and livable, cities.
1. Visit the Centennial Flame – an ever-burning tribute on Parliament Hill that commemorates Canada’s 100th anniversary of Confederation. 2. Grab a pair of skates for an icy romp around the Rideau Canal. 3. Book a guided tour of Parliament and see if you don’t run into Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 4. Take a day trip across the river and hike the trails in Gatineau Park. 5. Book a whitewater rafting excursion on the Ottawa River.
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Destination
Cars
Y-Fi
Gaming
POSTCARDS FROM
Ashlee Starratt recommends,
OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA I
ts name may not carry the same gravitas as that of, let’s say, London or Washington D.C. - but then again Canadians have always been a humble folk, preferring to make their not insignificant corner of the world stand out quietly. How, you ask? Well, through free healthcare, welcoming immigration policies, and a commitment to upholding diversity and inclusivity across all sectors of public and private life for a start. But mostly, through a kindness and compassion for our fellow human beings that’s earned Canada the global reputation it enjoys today. Sitting at the heart of the nation is its capital city of Ottawa. Perched along the banks of the Rideau Canal, its historic buildings of Parliament - with their distinctive green roofs of oxidized copper rising tall - form a picture-postcard emblem of the nation. It’s a city of diplomats, of diversity amid a nation of immigrants, and an historic intersection where English and French Canada meet, just a stone’s throw across the river. For tourists to the capital, this makes a visit truly the best of both worlds. Though Ottawa is, indeed, a city of extremes. Host to the world’s largest tulip festival each spring - with over one million flowers on display and more than 650,000 visitors in attendance annually, CROWD it was also the coldest capital city in the world this past January during a polar deepS SK CANAL ATE ALONG freeze - beating out Mongolia’s Ulan Bator at a bone-chilling -36 degrees Celsius with THE D U R IN G W IN T E R R ID E A U LUDE wind chill. It takes a sunny disposition and a tough constitution to weather the contrasts that living in Ottawa can throw at you. Best rest assured - any season you choose to visit you’ll find a city thrumming with life and a sense of community in the one of the world’s most accessible capitals. With one of the nation’s most intuitive transit systems, Ottawa is extremely easy to navigate. With two city bus systems that operate on both sides of the Ottawa River one in the capital, and it’s French-speaking sister city of Gatineau on the Québec side, it also operates a comprehensive light-rail network - the O-Train which connects to over 50 stations across the capital and its surrounding suburbs. An RO1 aqua taxi ride will also ferry you across the Rideau Canal Locks over to Gatineau in a jiffy, and dedicated bike lanes and cycling trails mean renting a set of wheels is the natural choice (during the warm months!) to see the city, while reducing your carbon footprint. If you plan to travel in the summer be sure to time your visit to coincide with Canada Day on July 1 which sees huge concert celebrations and evening fireworks display taking over Parliament Hill. Or, if you’re not afraid to brave the deep-freeze, come in February and celebrate Winterlude with thousands of other revelers with a skate along the frozen Rideau Canal and a stick of maple candy or a piping-hot beaver tail (the unofficial national pastry) in-hand.
OF OS P H E R E R FU L A T M OU OL C E H T ET RD MARK THE BYWA
My favourite place Ottawa’s downtown district is a vibrant urban oasis. Wander along its infamous Sparks Street, converted
into a pedestrian mall in 1967 and indulge in some of the capital’s best foodie scene while politician-watching and celebrity-spotting. Or spend a lazy afternoon or evening exploring the hub of ByWard Market – Ottawa’s number-one tourist destination. Packed with local vendors, restaurants, shops, stalls, art galleries, performance spaces and more, it’s a thriving community unto its own – boasting over 600 businesses and an average of 50,000 visitors every weekend.
Highlights One of the world’s most comprehensive national museums and research centres dedicated to the historic preservation and study of military history and understanding armed conflict, the Canadian War Museum is a must-visit. Its galleries showcase the influential moments in battle and in history that have shaped the identity of Canada, and with roughly three million artifacts in its collection and half a million visitors each year, it’s a sobering reminder of the ultimate price humanity pays in the name of conflict. Equally on your Ottawa bucket-list should be the National Gallery of Canada, whose collections highlight the best in Canadian art – and in particular indigenous art from Canada’s First Nations people.
Lowlights The weather. Prepare for extremes. While late spring and early summer are the best times to visit Ottawa, temperatures can surpass the 40-degree Celsius mark during the July/August heatwaves, and dip down as low as -36 degress Celsius during the winter months.
Souvenirs Canadian Roots brand apparel, a maple-leaf pin made from the original copper roofs of Parliament Hill, indigenous totems or soapstone carvings, and maple syrup products. Getting there From Muscat you can travel via Qatar Airways to Montreal, or via Emirates to Toronto where you can catch a connecting Air Canada, WestJet, or Porter Airlines flight to Ottawa – just an hour’s distance away. Where to stay
While all the world’s major hotel chains are represented in the Canadian capital it’s also an Airbnb haven – so be sure to scour the site for more budget-friendly options. Otherwise, you can book your accommodation via Kayak.com, Trivago, or Booking.com.
R A D IA
NT FAL LC G A T IN E O L O U R S A L ONG TH AU TR E A IL S
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-FI THE TECH IN YOU
Game with caution lest you be glued to your console as the Y Geek Squad rounds up the month’s top releases
I
t’s official: the gaming season is on. From action and adventure to roleplaying and turn-by-turn game titles, October is packed with a slew of new releases that will ensure you won’t be turning off your consoles or your PCs just yet. Here are four standout titles hitting shelves around Muscat soon that we, for one, can’t wait to splurge our spending money on!
TOM CLANCY’S GHOST RECON BREAKPOINT
Beloved American novelist Tom Clancy may be long gone but his legacy lives on through his books and game titles – and Ghost Recon Breakpoint is the latest in a lineup of games from the series to hit shelves. This third-person survival shooter game follows up on the success of Ghost Recon Wildlands (from 2017) and aims to take things one step further. You now have a larger map set in the fictitious Pacific Island of Aurora and will fend off a corrupt Ghost agent who has set up a faction with seized arms. As is the case, you get to choose your approach; meaning, you can go in guns blazing or take a stealthier route to take control of the island from within. Platforms: PC, PS4, and Xbox One
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Top October Game Releases
DELIVER US THE MOON
Is it just us or have indie game developers begun walking the talk? Either way, developers KeokeN Interactive bring us Deliver us the Moon – an explorative and interactive game that focuses on you, an astronaut of the World Space Agency, linking the Moon with Earth after connection between the two are lost. This follows a mysterious incident that took place on the Moon after the agency finds a new source of energy that can be utilised to sustain human life on Earth. Gameplay takes you and an AI drone companion to the Moon, where your character will experience life-like physics (weightlessness, fatigue, etc.) when you try to piece together what happened, all while working around derelict machinery. Platform: PC
WWE 2K20
Brace yourselves for some high-octane drama –and action, as WWE 2K20 makes its way into all leading platforms later this month. Storyline and gameplay mirror previous years’ titles, while graphics, fight physics, and rosters take a complete overhaul for the better. And, in the name of balancing the scales, there’s a new female story mode to pursue – a first for a WWE title. All of this makes it one of the more compelling games of the season, even if it remains unchanged across most fronts. Platforms: PC, PS4, and Xbox One
CALL OF DUTY: MODERN WARFARE This is the reboot to a classic firstperson shooter series that no one asked for, but secretly wanted. Even the name rings a bell among enthusiasts: Modern Warfare; resurrecting the name of the 2007 title it’s based on. Calling it a re-imagination of the previous game is a crime; Modern Warfare may take a similar route, but it makes use of modern 2019 tech with enough tricks up its sleeve to craft a completely new gameplay around it. Also, gone are the exoskeletons, robots, and AI characters – and to that we say, good riddance. This game focuses on the best of the Call of Duty series: flying bullets, decisionmaking and, above all, the Captain Price we all know and love – all set in an environment best suited to emulate realism. Platforms: PC, PS4, and Xbox One
HEALTH
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BEAUTY
Fa s h i o n
Home
Fa m i l y
BEATING THE ODDS A
breast cancer diagnosis is life-changing – not only for the individual who is diagnosed but for their entire family. As we mark global Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, both survivors and healthcare professionals in the Sultanate raise the call for education surrounding breast health and early detection. The word ‘malignant’ in association with a diagnosis brings with it a kit of medical lingo that can overwhelm new patients – a lingo that exists in stages, grades, margins, CT scans, MRIs, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. Trying to understand the disease progression by navigating this foreign vocabulary and its demarcating lines between illness and health can be daunting. This is where education comes in to truly solidify that knowledge is power – namely what to look for and how to accurately perform regular self-examinations. And it’s a power that has the potential to be life-saving. Saada Mohammed Al Maamari [pictured left] is a nine-year breast cancer survivor in Muscat, who can’t stress enough how much of her life she has lost to the disease – her ailment overpowering her to the extent of losing all hope. During her lowest moments, Saada tells us that living with and managing the disease became, seemingly, her sole reason for existence. But nearly a decade on and she has a message of hope for other women who are going through their own breast cancer battles. “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010,” she says. “Life changed drastically, but my hopes were stronger than the disease.” A breastfeeding counselor and advisor, and an active member of the Oman Cancer Association (OCA), Saada fought hard with the disease while at the same time spreading a message of support and awareness. She still remembers the day she first found a lump. “I still remember [one] workshop where, after, I got the shock of my life. Dr. Taha, who was an amazing speaker, spoke on breast cancer awareness and explained the techniques of self-examination,” she recalls. “During my own
With Breast Cancer Awareness Month in full swing, Swati Basu Das meets survivors here in the Sultanate who have a message of hope for those currently undergoing treatment self-examination, I could feel a painless lump – a coin-sized bulge. I wasted no time and was [soon] diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. It was a horror…and I started losing all [my] hopes and dreams. I lost my hair, gained weight, and felt immense pain [during treatment]. The therapies and medicines made me even more sick – I felt the them and the radiation running through my veins instead of blood. More than me, it was cancer that got into my identity.” With regular treatment and the love and support of her family, Saada was able to find her footing back to a healthy life. “I never miss my checkups and maintain a healthy lifestyle,” she says. “My mother, father, husband, and children were a strong support. They’re with me every single moment – be it at home or at the healthcare centre. I’ve gathered the courage to fight and live to see them smile with me.” An unwanted intruder, breast cancer – and for that matter any kind of cancer ushers in a series of phenomenal physical and emotional changes that can create lasting trauma for patients and their families. A patient dealing with breast cancer can experience an alteration in their body shape after mastectomy, become immunosuppressed during treatment, and struggle with depression and anxiety during their battle with the disease. For those survivors like Saada, it’s a battle they’ve lived through and continue to fight with an unceasing effort. Worldwide, October is marked as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. An invasive illness, breast cancer is of the most prevalent and common cancers detected among women globally. While World Health Organization (WHO) figures estimate around 1.38 million new cases diagnosed each year, in Oman, there are 23,000 registered cases. Unfortunately, in the Sultanate, the grade has escalated – and a recent study conducted by the OCA reveals that young women are becoming more affected than older populations. Men are also not exempt from this indiscriminate disease, with one man diagnosed with breast cancer for every ten women who are also diagnosed. “The reason behind the wide spread of this pandemic is yet to be discovered,” explains Dr. Wahid
(Main image for illustrative purposes only. Photo credit: Shutterstock)
Ali Al Kharusi, Chairman and President of the Oman Cancer Association. “Surprisingly, female patients as young as 18-ears-old are diagnosed with breast cancer these days. We are working on it and trying to find out why breast cancer is on the rise and, mostly among young females. Men are no exception when it comes to breast cancer, they are on their way to catch up with this disease.” Global October Pink Ribbon initiatives in association with the WHO and the UN aim to educate women on the importance of selfexamination, the proper techniques to use, and early signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer. “Breast cancer doesn’t have to be fatal, but it is distressing – and the growing number [of cases] in Oman are a cause of concern,” elaborates Dr. Al Kharusi. “If diagnosed and treated within a week of detection, there are high chances of full recovery. Since 2009, our mobile mammogram unit has detected several breast cancer cases and helps the patient deal with the ailment.”
While breast cancer is a disease that can affect ourselves and our loved ones, here are a few simple lifestyle changes you can make that could help make a difference for those at risk:
• Maintain a healthy weight. • Add more fruits and vegetables to your daily diet.
• Undertake daily exercise which can help keep breast cancer at bay.
• Quit smoking. • Consider breastfeeding your baby as studies show it can lower the risk of breast cancer.
• Be aware and spread the message on the
importance of self-examination to others.
Editor’s Note: This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of a medical expert if you have any questions regarding a health issue. OCT 24 - 30 / ISSUE 590
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DAZZLING DIWALI
As the five-day Festival of Lights gets underway on October 27, celebrate in your best attire with festive frocks and glints of gold to mark the occasion, like this stunning saree ensemble.
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Health
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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
Who says you have to wear a full-on saree to shine as bright at the lights of Diwali this festive season? Go for broke in this designer kaftan-style silk-blend chiffon tunic from Dundas, embellished with metallic fil coupé. An investment it come at a price-tag of RO518 and you can order it online from www.farfetched.com.
Go the traditional route this Diwali and drape yourself in a colourful saree that an eye-catching print. We love this burnished gold version from Oomph! Bordered with a dazzling Kalamkari peacock print motif. Snag it online from Amazon India for just RO9.
Keep your look vibrant and festive from head-to-toe in a pair of pink trousers that pair boldly under an embellished tunic. We love these cherry-fuchsia pair of chinos from Zara. Grab them for RO19.9.
When it comes to jewelry, a colourful occasion deserves a colourful statement piece – and this 22-karat gold stunner from Malabar Gold & Diamonds is nothing less than a showstopper. Buy it for RO186.3.
Looking for a new way to amp up your ensemble? This gorgeous, sequined kurta-style gown from MANGO brings a bit of Indo-Western inspiration into the mix. Make it yours for RO119.
Keep the gold standard going with a shiny evening clutch that has the Midas touch. We love the striking sparkle of this version from Aldo Accessories – with bonus points for its head-turning ‘Evil Eye’ embellishment. Get it for RO21.1.
Keep your toes sparkling with a touch of gold. These pair of shiny sling-backs from Charles & Keith are just the ticket to keep you stylish, yet comfy– and we love the added whimsy of a translucent lucite heel! Wear them for RO34.2.
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YUMMY
The signature dish of India’s Muslim community, biryani continues to leave us hungry for more
Rice of
LIFE
The world over, the humble biryani is as varied and versatile a dish as they come. Aftab H. Kola tucks in to explore this comfort food’s global appeal.
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Reviews
F
ood mirrors a culture; tracing its social history and documenting its rites and rituals through the food on our plates to create an understanding of a people, a time and place. And for Oman’s South Asian communities there’s one dish that rises to the top when it comes to our collective appetite for its endless depth of flavour and subtle regional variations – the simple, humble biryani. With origins dating back more than 600 years ago to its early Persian and Indian roots, cultures and countries across the subcontinent from Pakistan to Bangladesh and branching out even further to Iran and Afghanistan and nations across the GCC – all have adopted some form of the beloved rice dish. From Iranian Isfahani beryan, to Omani makbous, to Bangladeshi kacchi biryani its name may differ, and its spices and protein may vary – but the essence of this historic dish remains the same. Believed to have originated in Persia, biryani entered the Indian kitchens in the 14th century by the conqueror Taimur, biryani is a dish usually made with long-grain, aromatic rice, cooked with rich spices, a touch of saffron, and meat such as chicken, goat, or mutton – or even seafood. In some parts of South India, short-grain rice varieties are sometimes used and a myriad of special regional flavours make biryani a global favourite. The aroma of biryani has wafted down the centuries and still lingers over the length and breadth of the subcontinent – with an estimated 30 regional varieties. Stemming from the Persian ‘beryan’, which means ‘fried, and ‘berenj’ meaning ‘rice’, biryanis interplay of condiments, spices, and depth of flavour profiles define it on the palate. Here, we shine the spotlight on India’s most popular varieties:
Hyderabadi biryani For India’s vast Muslim population on the Deccan Plateau, Hyderabd serves as its epicentre – and Hyderbadi biryani is relished on a daily basis and on every festive occasion. Served with ‘dahi ki chutney’ (whipped yogurt with thinly sliced onions, finely chopped green chilies, and coriander leaves), and ‘baghara baigan ka salan’ (whole aubergines in peanut gravy). A more exotic (and spicier!) incarnation comes served with ‘mirch ka salan’ (a curry made with whole, large green chilies). A feast of Hyderbadi biryani is often followed by a sweet serving of ‘double ka meetha’ (a version of breadand-butter pudding), or ‘khubani ka meetha’ (a sweet dish made of dried apricots).
Chettinad biryani
Moving to the south of the subcontinent to the state of Tamil Nadu, Chettinad biryani is yet another dish that forms the essence of the region’s culinary canon. At first blush, it’s the onslaught of chilies that set your taste-buds tingling and your senses on fire – the hallmark of a good Chettinad biryani. It’s a dish that has a good dash of pepper and a sprinkling of local spices such as ‘kal pasi’ and stone flower to further heighten its flavour profile. To add more colour to the biryani, papad, pickles, and ‘raita’ come as traditional accompaniments.
Bhatkal biryani
This fragrant biryani, with its origins from the small coastal region of Bhatkal in the southern Indian state of Karnataka is a unique preparation whose taste is nothing short of heavenly. Prepared in two layers, the bottom layer consists of halfcooked meat stewed in a rich emulsion of spices, while the
upper layer contains half-cooked spiced rice. The pot is then sealed for ‘dum’ – or slow-cooking – which, when opened spreads its aromatic magic. Long-grained delicately fragrant basmati rice is a must for making Bhatkali biryani, along with fish or prawn as the protein of choice.
Thalassery biryani
For those seeking a fire-in-thebelly biryani experience, this spicy Kerala biryani is prepared using ‘khaima’ (short-grained, aromatic rice), freshly-ground masala, and garnished with deep-fried onions and curry leaves to add a mild yet sweet depth of flavour. Other favourite Kerala varieties include the Kuttanadan beef biryani with its distinctive and generous dash of pepper, and the authentic Calicut biryani which is cooked over coconut shells.
Lucknowi biryani
In north India, ‘Awadhi’ – or Lucknowi biryani made ‘dum pukht’-style (slow-cooked) is the common preparation in this region of Uttar Pradesh. With the primary protein being chicken, the tender meat is flavoured with spices and first partially cooked separately from the rice – which is flavoured with saffron, star anise, and cinnamon. They’re then layered together in a ‘handi’ (a deep-bottomed vessel) and slow-cooked for hours to tease out and enhance the flavours. Once known as ‘Awadh’, Lucknow is the epicentre of Awadhi cuisine – redolent with recipes brought from Persia and developed to the taste of the Mughal kings who ruled the northern regions of India for centuries. Traditional Lucknowi biryani is lighter in colour, texture and spices – with each fine grain of rice separate from the other. Commonly served with ‘boondi raita’ (a whipped yogurt base with drops of fried batter) other accompaniments include onion, tomato, coriander or lemon chutneys and pickles – and, with guests to impress, Lucknowi biryani may be served alongside other dishes such as kebabs. With winter setting in, there’s no better time to than now to try your hand at one of these fragrant varieties!
Lucknowi Dum Pukht Biryani This lush north Indian biryani is replete with the ideal balance of aromatics and spice and slow cooked to perfection.
Baghar (tempering) For the sauté: § 4 Tbsp, butter or oil § 2 tsp, coconut powder § 1 ½ tsp, sesame seeds § 1 tsp, cumin seeds § 3 medium onion rings, golden fried to garnish.
§
Ingredients: § ½ kg, chicken, cut into pieces § 3 cups, basmati rice, boiled § 3 medium onions, finely Method: chopped § Heat ghee/oil and sauté onions § 3 tsp, ginger-garlic paste until golden brown. Add three § § 4 medium tomatoes, puréed teaspoons of the ginger-garlic § 6 green chilies, finely chopped paste, fry, and then add tomato § 3 Tbsp, mint and coriander purée, chili powder, coriander leaves, finely chopped powder, and turmeric powder. § § 1 ½ tsp, chili powder Stir until tomatoes become soft § ½ tsp, coriander powder and he oil separates from the § ¼ tsp, turmeric powder gravy. § 1 Tbsp, garam masala powder § Turn up the heat, add the § 4 Tbsp, ghee or oil chicken, and mix well. Cover the § Salt to taste
pan and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked and tender. Prepare the ‘baghar’ (tempering). In a saucepan, heat butter or oil and fry the cumin seeds, coconut powder, and sesame seeds on low heat until light brown. Pour over the chicken gravy and mix well. Prepare the garnish. Fry the onion rings and green chilies in the ghee (clarified leaves, and garam masala powder. Repeat with butter) or oil. a thick layer of chicken and a layer of remaining Grease a large pan with rice. Sprinkle with onion rings, green chilies, garam ghee or oil. Arrange a thin masala powder, coriander, and mint leaves. layer of chicken topped with § Heat four tablespoons of ghee or oil and pour over a thick layer of rice, and the rice. Cover and leave on a very low heat for 10-14 sprinkle onion rings, green minutes. Serve hot with raita. Makes six portions. chilies, mint, coriander
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Info Box
TURKISH HOUSE Al Khuwair, nearby to the Muscat Pharmacy Opening hours: 12 noon till 12 midnight, daily Contact: (+968) 2448-8071 Lunch for three: RO26.4
Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 10/10 FOOD 6/10 AMBIENCE
Turkish street food-style grills and mezze served fresh, fast, and flavourful at cheap-as-chips prices.
Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals
TURKISH HOUSE OMANI SEAFOOD GETS A TURKISH TOUCH AT THIS HOLE-IN-THE-WALL RESTAURANT THAT’S EARNED AN AVID FOLLOWING OF FOODIE FAITHFUL
‘K
eep it simple’, as a motto, is one our world would do well to live by. Surely, by following such sensible advice we could very well have avoided the host of issues currently plaguing the planet, would we not? It’s an adage that’s long been common knowledge in the culinary world, across cultures and cuisines. Simple, slow food with ingredients curated and cultivated with care and preparation that lets their natural flavour profiles shine. It doesn’t get any more primal and simplistic than cooking with fire and if there’s one commonality that Arabic, Levantine, and Ottoman cuisines share – from Omani mishkak to Turkish kebabs – is their proclivity towards the depth of flavour that comes from meat and seafood cooked over a charcoal grill. So, it was with high expectations that we headed to Al Khuwair for lunch at a humble establishment whose reputation long preceded it – Turkish House. We’d been hearing from fellow foodie friends that we simply must try one of their reportedly sublime grills we succumbed to our appetites and headed over on a recent Friday for lunch. Tucked down an unassuming back side-street, the restaurant offers up a no-frills façade and an interior much the same. But really, what more do you need when the food is the star of the show – and in an era when even street-food stalls in Singapore are now earning Michelin stars? And by the looks of the packed dining hall, we’re reminded not to judge a book by its cover. In a stroke of luck, we snag one of the last tables
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OCT 24 - 30 / ISSUE 590
– as in another ten minutes of being seated there’s already a line-up out the door. Needless to say, our anticipation builds. This isn’t an establishment to sit and linger long after your plate is clean, lest you feel the impatient stares of the hungry line-up in the lobby. We’re seated fast, menus whisked out in a flash, our waiter returning promptly in a couple minutes time to take our order. With a simple menu consisting of mainly varieties of Turkish mezze, platters and grills, with an array of fresh juices, coffees, and homely Ottoman-style desserts. We order a round of fresh watermelon and lemon mint juices and decide on a large sharing portion of their mixed mezze and, bearing in mind the restaurant is known for their fresh seafood, a large platter of their mixed grill variety. Within minutes of placing our order, a foot-long portion of traditional Turkish bread called ‘pide’ arrives at our table, piping-hot from the oven. Given its size we’re surprised when we’re told the bread is unlimited – but more fools are we than to think we wouldn’t finish it. Chewy, hearty and hot, it’s better than any saj, pita, or naan we’ve ever had, and we devour half of it just sopping up the velvety hummus, moutabel, tabbouleh, muhammara, and spicy Turkish olives that come laden on our mezze platter. It’s almost a meal in itself – and comfort food at its most simple. Noting how quick the dishes are arriving as the wait-staff jostle for space with plates and platters raised high above their heads amid the lunchtime rush, our mixed seafood grill comes floating toward our table like a beacon. Piled high atop yet another foot-long pizza-
pie-like portion of pide bread, fragrant filets of grilled hammour clamor for space amid strips of toothsome calamari, a regiment of grilled king prawns, and a mountain of fries. We’re practically salivating. All pieces of seafood are grilled to perfection and not overcooked. The hammour slides away at the touch of our fork, and the calamari has just the ideal bite to it – not a trace of rubbery-ness in sight. But the hands-down standout are the king prawns. Grilled with a deep char on their tails, they’re a gorgeous balance of sweet and smoky and we just can’t get enough of them. It’s a huge platter – and there’s three of us – yet still we ate our fill and had to take our leftovers home. Tying the whole platter together were the sinfully addictive accompaniments – a generous portion of proper Turkish garlic mayo and a bowl full of olive oil mixed with an entire bulb of garlic diced garlic. Needless to say, we’re not doing any close talking after this meal. All three elements – the sweet morsels of seafood, the earthy funk of the garlicky condiments, and the lush hot pide to mop it all up with marry to create the most comforting and delicious combination of flavours which we savour hungrily. Turkish House has been a gem of a foodie find for us – though we seem to be some of the last foodies in the city to be in the know of its existence. We won’t be making that mistake again. Stellar food, speedy service, and pocket-friendly prices have made for a truly stellar Muscat dining experience. ■ 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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