FACES Issue No. 107 by FACES OMAN

Issue 107, December 2015

Family Attitude Class Entertainment Success

Editor’s Note ‘Have I done my daily task? Have I kept my honour bright...’ goes an old Boy Scout song, which, somehow, expresses the contemplative mood that the year-end sets in. Although it is common to dismiss the onset of the New Year as just another day on the calendar, a little retrospection of the year gone by is bound to happen - whether you have begun the year on a ‘resolution’ platform or not. With every passing year becoming a milestone, erected with memories of events and achievements, it is but human to look back and ponder over the year gone by, before setting foot on the New Year.

Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali Business Director / Sophia Raman Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma Head of Advertising & Marketing / Aziz K. Baker Business Unit Head / Pooja Saxena

Our Cover Story is an extension of this reflective mood, as we speak to a few prominent people from different walks of life about the year that was for them and the aspirations pegged on to their New Year. There is an element of positivity as 2016 promises to infuse positivity, locally as well as globally.

Operations / M.V.V. Sagar

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To add to the current holiday mood and the festive cheer, we have packed our special pages with a roundup of the city’s hotels and resorts, where most of the action is bound to happen. With 2015 perfectly culminating on a weekend, this NYE is guaranteed to get everyone in a party mood; one that will certainly set the pace of the New Year on a highly upbeat note.

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So, gear up for a promising 2016… Here’s wishing every one of you a very Happy New Year!

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Copyright 2015 FACES / All material published remains the copyright of FACES. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. FACES cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material.

FACES Features 16 Cover Story

As the countdown to the New Year begins and the avalanche of resolutions floods the eve, we go on a retrospective mode to keep the embers of 2015 shining bright and resolute to go in a blaze of glory

22 In Conversation

Duleep Mendis, Chief Development Officer and National Coach of Oman Cricket, turns the pitch on the upcoming World T20, as he traces his long stint in Sri Lanka’s cricketing horizon

24 In The Spotlight

Shades of Purple and orange and all the bright hues reflecting light and shadow bring out Gian Marco Crovetto’s Liguria to life

FACES Foodie 26 Feast On

Shorbas, chaats, tikkas, curries, dals, rotis and elaichi flavours - welcome to the world of ‘The Yellow Chilli’, where every dish is infused with a twist of scrumptious goodness

FACES Health 30 Health Check

Whether you believe in making New Year’s resolutions or not, put health on top of your priority list as you welcome 2016

FACES Travel

34 Explore Oman

Up on the mountain is the abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib, replete with the old world charm of mud houses and archaic interiors that are designed to take you to another time and space

FACES Style 36 Look Good

Get make-up ready for the New Year with these trend cues that are bound to add to your savvy look

40 Style File -

Popular Omani designer Amal Al Raisi steps into the RTW world with her new line ‘By Amal Al Raisi Get inspired by Liali’s signature fancies, which include love brands like the ‘Midnight Rose Collection’, and ‘Memories’ Over 55 new products added, make the product line comprehensive and the outdoor experience more refined American Eagle makes a mark in Muscat with its special collection

FACES Elements 48 Take a Spin

With improved seat folding and active safety features incorporated into the refreshed hed new version of Mitsubishi Outlander

56 Relatively Speaking eaking Do you have selfie esteem

58 At Home

Home Centre has decided to o bring home the ‘Force’ by collaborating with Disney to o launch a never-seen-before collection i that will appeal to every Star Wars fans

FACES SPECIAL 50 NYE Special

Ring out the old and bring in the new, as hotels in and around the capital gear up for the special eve with festive spreads and fun activities

FACES Razzmatazz

10 Star Light

Will the evasive Oscar finally makes its way to Leonardo DiCaprio’s home?

12 Razzle Dazzle Latest celebrity gossip from the world of Hollywood

14 Tittle Tattle

Heard through the grapevine...

FACES Digest

64 Movies & Books Reviews of upcoming movies and books

67 Gadget Notes N tes Roundup of new gadgets ga ts in the market

Tim Hortons and Nutella: a match made in pastry heaven Bite into the rich allure of Nutella in Nutella filled Pastry Pockets as they make their debut in participating Tim Hortons baked goods showcases across stores in Muscat. The blend of fresh taste of Tim Hortons baked goods with Nutella to create a phenomenal flavour pairing would entice you to come back for more.This is a melt-in-your-mouth, must-try treat; a delicious combination of flaky pastry filled with Nutella and dusted with sugar launched across stores in Muscat Grand Mall, Grand Central, Barkha and Muscat City Centre, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.

Kaya nonsurgical Lift Want a wrinkle-free face that glows…? Kaya Skin Clinic has the perfect answer with the launch of Kaya non-surgical Lift, a revolutionary enhancement technique that uses microthreads for lifting. An immediate lifting effect is achieved with this procedure and the full impact becoming visible in 2 months. It also stimulates long-term skin rejuvenation and gifts vitality, elasticity and a luminous glow while being extremely safe. The innovative technique is practically painless but can also be done with local anaesthesia. Clients can go straight back to their daily routine almost immediately. It uses microthreads made of Polidioxanone, absorbable sterile medical grade suture threads. Hence the chances to produce side-effects, allergic reactions or rejection are minimal. The threads are completely absorbed by the body in six to eight months. The implanting takes place in the hypodermis – hence the immediate lifting effect. Some of the benefits include: the lifting of the cheeks, defining of the jaw line, narrowing of the nose, smoothening of neck lines and raising the eyebrows.

December 2015

Nutella filled Pastry Pockets has been doing the rounds in the stores, adding to the fun and fervour of the Tim Hortons’ guests present at the venue. It has also grabbed attention on various social media platforms with a plethora of posts and tweets using the hashtag #PastryPocketsWithNutella. Let a dollop of Nutella in every bite, wrapped with a light sugar-coated pastry bring you all exclusively at Tim Hortons.

Hormuz Grand Hotel, Muscat joins Quorvus Collection Hormuz Grand Hotel, Muscat has become the latest hotel in Carlson Rezidor’s Quorvus Collection, a new generation of expertly curated luxury hotels inspired by the lifestyle and sensibilities of the contemporary global traveller. A combination of the traditional that includes Omani culture, design and personality; and the contemporary, with Rezidor’s world-class hospitality, the Hormuz Grand is conveniently located close to an international airport, shopping destinations and the upcoming exhibition centre. “We are delighted to bring the Hormuz Grand Hotel Muscat into the Quorvus Collection and introduce our own suite of hallmark and essential services tailored to fit perfectly with our guests’ needs,” said Chris Pike, General Manager of Hormuz, Grand Hotel, Muscat. The Hormuz Grand is the second Quorvus Collection property in the Middle East, after the Symphony Style Hotel in Kuwait. Launched in 2014, the Quorvus Collection unites individual and inspiring luxury properties, offering distinguished experiences.

Pan-Asian Oman shoppers to enjoy Visa’s restaurant ‘Impossible Deals’ at DSF 2016 Shoppers from Oman, heading to the annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), wagamama to have an exciting offer from Visa, the official payment partner of DSF. Visa offers discounts of up to 80 percent on a limited number of deals on luxury goods and open in Oman services to shoppers visiting from Oman. One-time online registration ensures Fans of Japanese cuisine are in for a treat. Bin Mirza International recently signed a franchise agreement with wagamama, the UK-based awardwinning pan-Asian restaurant, to bring its Japanese style cuisine to the Sultanate for the very first time. wagamama, which means ‘naughty child’ or ‘one who is wilful and determined’ in Japanese, is renowned for its noodle-inspired authentic dishes that cater to a wide variety of tastes. Oman residents and visitors will be invited to take a seat at the renowned wagamama canteen-style benches and enjoy a variety of new and classic dishes from the seasonal menu – all served by friendly staff in atmospheric surroundings. Directly influenced by the delectable ramen stalls of Japan, the restaurant will provide customers with a feel-good experience that is tailor-made for people on the go. According to Jannat Moosa, Marketing Director at BMI, wagamama will make its debut in Oman next year.

that participants receive daily deal notifications on their mobile phones, which they can redeem on a first come, first served basis. The campaign will run through the DSF month from 1st January 2016 to 1st February 2016 during which one impossible deal will be unveiled every day. Visa cardholders from Oman will have to log on to www.visamiddleeast.com/dsf and follow a simple registration process to enrol in the promotion.

Omanoil’s Farah Campaign ‘Simply being happy’ is beneficial is the message of Oman Oil Marketing Company’s (omanoil) Farah campaign, which was launched under the ‘Feel Good’ theme. The initiative, a first of its kind in the Sultanate, was designed to share special moments with customers and highlight the benefits of simply being happy. Earlier this month, a team of special Farah ambassadors started visiting filling stations in the Governorates of Muscat, North and South Al Batinah, Al Sharqiyah, Ad Dakhliyah, as well as Dhofar to surprise customers with gifts ranging from LED TVs to iPhones. Additionally, a special Farah film will be made to capture those special moments of happiness and share them through social media to commemorate the campaign.

Shell Oman launches Fleet Card System Good news for patrons of Shell Oman Marketing Company, as it leads technological innovation with the latest Fleet Card System. The new Fleet Card Management System comes with a range of great features. Easy to access and simple to use, the system comes with enhanced control, greater security and extra savings. The new platform also allows for a corporate Advance Payment account, giving customers the freedom to prepay for use of fuel. Some of the new features of the card management system include customised PIN-enabled cards and online authorisation of transactions. Customers can now download invoices and a variety of card reports online through Shell Cards Online – an online web portal. Shell Oman also announced their latest technology - Shell Vehicle Recognition System (VRS), a fully automated revolution in fleet management.

December 2015

The DiCaprio Effect Whether the evasive Oscar finally makes its way to Leonardo DiCaprio’s home or not, the actor has a winner with his forthcoming movie, ‘Revenant’

ill he, won’t he… With cine watchers predicting an Oscar win for Leonardo DiCaprio’s upcoming film ‘The Revenant’, the mood is definitely upbeat in the film camp; but DiCaprio is not overtly concerned with the Academy win. Having endured comments and remarks over the drought of awards in his kitty, he has toughened himself for any eventuality in his film career. As he reiterated in one of his interviews: “I don’t think I ever expected anything like an Oscar ever, to tell you the truth. That is not my motivation when I do these roles. I really am motivated by being able to work with great people and create a body of work that I can look back and be proud of.” Given that the film is made by Alejandro González Iñárritu, who directed last year’s Best Picture winner, ‘Birdman’, expectations are running high. In ‘Revenant’, Leonardo DiCaprio plays fur trapper Hugh Glass, who sets out on a path of vengeance against his hunting team who left him for dead after a bear mauling. He commits to the film, delivering

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a spittle-speckled, blood-soaked revenge turn that demonstrates his caliber for serious films. However, he did confess in an interview, recently, that the gruelling nine-month shoot in Canada and Argentina was one of the toughest physical and mental challenges of his career. “I can name 30 or 40 sequences that were some of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do,” he reportedly said. Leonardo Wilhelm DiCaprio, who turned 41, early last month, has had several box office hits to his credit, but it is the Oscar win that has everyone discussing his chances at the Academy Awards, as the new year ushers in the Oscar season. DiCaprio began his career with television commercials, before graduating to recurring roles in TV series such as the soap opera ‘Santa Barbara’ and the sitcom ‘Growing Pains’ in the early 1990s. It was ‘Critters 3’ that set him in the film industry, with the film adaptation of the memoir ‘This Boy’s Life’ winning him laurels. He was seen in a supporting

role in ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’, ‘The Basketball Diaries’ and the romantic drama ‘Romeo + Juliet’, before achieving international fame with ‘Titanic’, which won him his first Drama Golden Globe Award. The 2000s has seen him winning critical acclaim for his work in a wide range of film genres, including ‘The Man in the Iron Mask’, ‘Catch Me If You Can’, ‘Gangs of New York’, ‘Blood Diamond’, ‘The Departed’, Body_of_Lies_(film)” Body of Lies’, ‘Revolutionary Road’, ‘Shutter Island’, ‘Inception’, ‘J. Edgar’, ‘Django Unchained’, and ‘The Great Gatsby’. DiCaprio won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Drama for ‘The Aviator’ and Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy for ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’. As cine buffs and critics weigh DiCaprio’s chances, he is content doing what he does best – acting! “I have learned from my experiences in this industry that there is absolutely no way to control people’s opinion on your performance in your movie. You go out there, promote your film and hope people like the work you did,” he states.

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Adele quit smoking as she feared for her life

The reigning diva has revealed that she quit smoking because she feared it would kill her. “If I’d carried on smoking I’d probably have died from a smoking-related illness and I think that’s really bad. If I was dying from lung cancer I would have potentially given it to myself and that wouldn’t be something I’d be proud of,” said Adele, who had been smoking 25 cigarettes a day when she had to cancel shows in 2011 after losing her voice. After an operation, doctors told her that her career could be over if she did not stop smoking.

Kylie Jenner has math problems

Kylie Jenner has been ridiculed after struggling to solve a mathematical problem meant for 13-year-olds. The reality star, who recently revealed she wants to be a businesswoman, took a stab at several equations with a friend. However, she soon found herself stuck with finding an answer when she came across one meant for 8th grade students. Eventually, Kylie did come up with the answer but couldn’t believe how difficult it was to work out. Posting a picture of the sum, she wrote: ‘Who else missed 8th grade math...’ But instead of sympathy, she got mocked by her fans. The majority of her followers were quick to mock the star with many claiming the equation was easy peasy.

Are ‘Friends’ stars Courteney Cox and Matthew Perry dating?

Wild rumours are on that Friends stars Courteney Cox and Matthew Perry could be dating, following the star’s recent split from fiancé Johnny McDaid. The pair was supposedly spotted on a date recently, and Friends fans have been going into meltdown ever since. According to a source, the two have been seeing each other. ‘It›s no surprise that Matthew was one of the first people Courteney called after Johnny left her. They have leaned on each other before,’ the source told an entertainment magazine. ‘There isn’t any pressure to put a label on it just yet, but they are excited to see where this might go,’ the source added.

Caitlyn Jenner: Most Fascinating Person of 2015 Barbara Walters named Caitlyn Jenner the Most Fascinating Person of 2015 on her show, ‘10 Most Fascinating People’, which aired on the ABC network early this month. The 86-year-old television legend credited Jenner, 66, for creating a ‘seismic shift in the gender universe’ and praised the former athlete for her very public gender-transitioning journey this year. ‘Through her own transition, Caitlyn Jenner transformed society this year. And that, for us, makes her the most fascinating person of 2015,’ she said.

Kate Middleton is the most stylish woman of 2015

According to a new survey, it is Kate Middleton’s style that most women want to emulate. One in three said the Duchess of Cambridge was the best dressed woman of 2015. Kate, 33, has consistently been named in best dressed lists since marrying Prince William in 2011; this despite spending most of 2015 out of the spotlight, as she was getting set to welcome her second child. She has become a fashion icon, thanks to her classic style. As one style expert noted, ‘She knows how to make the most of her wardrobe and reworks her existing outfits to make them appropriate for different occasions.’

December 2015

Tittle

“I found #LukeSkywalker! And I held onto him tight! #Thunder was a little star struck, as you can see. ‘#MarkHamill is the warmest jedi that ever did live.” - Lupita Nyong’o’s caption on her Instagram Mark picture with Mar ark k Hamill. Hami Ha milll. “I would [be blunt] and I am. I’m just rude.” - Harrison Ford jokes about being g blunt with his feelings aboutt the film (Star Wars) with both George ge Lucas Abrams. and new director J.J. Abr rrams. ams.

“There was a lot of pressure for me to lie about my age and say I had just turned 18 when I was actually 26. I did a couple times, and now I’m so embarrassed.” - Selma Blair recently opened up about lying about her age when she was younger and getting started in the business.

December 2015

“For Sisters, I had to get a spray tan, but I feel like my body just wants to be light green – pale with green undertones – so it would reject it.” – Tina Fey talks about the downside of getting into character for her new film.

“Based on history, when we find each other, we kill each other. I don’t feel like aliens are gonna be like, ‘Oh great, well, let’s get along!’ They might not. They might want to destroy us – have you seen a Tom Cruise movie?” – Jennifer Lawrence explains her fear of alien invasions on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

cover STORY

Year In, Year Out

‘All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.’ — Walt Disney

s the countdown to the New Year begins and the avalanche of resolutions flood the eve, we go on a retrospective mode to keep the embers of 2015 shining bright and resolute to go in a blaze of glory. It is a curtain call for the eventful that has year gone by, as FACES asks a few prominent people in the society to take a long pause and ponder over the year gone by, while they envisage a promising New Year…

Ahmad Al Harthy: On Track

The past 12 months have been extremely important for the Oman Racing Team and for me, personally, for my continued development as a racing driver on the international stage. Over the last year we have continued to build our experience, enjoyed good success and capped off 2015 with a podium finish in the Gulf 12 Hours race in Abu Dhabi – our first ever appearance in the event. Looking ahead to the next year, we are currently working very hard behind the scenes with all of our partners to put together the best possible motorsport programme to enable me to continue on the path towards becoming the first Omani to race in the worldfamous Le Mans 24 Hours. The promotion of Oman, its position as a key hub for business, travel and hospitality in the region, is central to all we do and through the growing partnership with prestige manufacturer Aston Martin; we are able to promote the Sultanate further than we ever have before. It was an honour to have been appointed Aston Martin Middle East and North Africa ambassador in May, and

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Photograph: Jakob Ebrey

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the relationship has grown and flourished over the past seven months. As well as what we do on track with the brand, being selected to drive the brand new Vulcan hypercar in Dubai, back in November, was a real personal highlight for me. As the first Arab to be entrusted with the car – which is a limited edition project, only 24 will be made – it was another important development in the relationship between the Oman Racing Team and Aston Martin, one of the most iconic and prestigious automotive brands in the world. I must say a heartfelt thank you to all of the partners, sponsors and supporters who helped to make 2015 an excellent year. For 2016, we are all looking forward to more successes, both off track and on it! (Ahmad Al Harthy is Oman’s top racing driver)

Lamees Daar: Mission Environment

2015 has been an incredible year for The Environment Society of Oman (ESO). We have reached new heights in research, conservation, education and awareness. We have tagged six endangered Arabian Sea Humpback Whales, found interesting but sad statistics in our Loggerhead turtle research and started serious and positive conservation advocacy work with both the government and private sector. We had a record number of college students participate in our environmental public speaking competition, leading to winners in the regional competition held in Dubai. We have celebrated our 10-year milestone as the only environmental non-profit organisation, and all of this is due to our incredibly talented, hard working and committed team of staff in Muscat, Masirah and Salalah. ESO was represented at COP21 and we are proud that Oman has made the commitment to reducing emissions in the coming years. Unfortunately, the oil crisis has seen a decrease in corporate sponsorships but this is to be expected. We only hope that others see the worthy work that has taken place in the NGO sector, regardless of this challenge. I look forward to seeing and being a part of The Environment Society’s achievements in 2016. Our staff and board members are working hard to put together another incredible year of activities and we will be focusing on clean-ups at the Damaniyat Islands, capacity building of young Omanis in the environmental field, awareness of sustainable harvesting practices for frankincense gatherers in Dhofar, and education initiatives within schools. Our ties with our government partners remain strong and I am excited to work together with all our stakeholders to ensure the conservation of Oman’s natural heritage. (Lamees Daar is the founding member and executive director of the Environment Society of Oman)

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H.H. Sayyida Basma Al-Said: Year of realisation

I am grateful for the year that was. It has been a year of realisation and I am very thankful for all the good things that marked the year. My gratitude stems mainly from the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the country after a prolonged absence. Although the year began on a note of uncertainty, as His Majesty wasn’t around in the early days, it soon turned jubilant. It has been an emotional roller coaster; the feeling was akin to a family whose father is not around. Having His Majesty back for the National Day has made it all the more special. And, as the year comes to an end, there is a feeling of contentment and an element of safety. We are, indeed, lucky to be in a country that is safe and secure, for we cannot ignore the things that are happening around us. Personally, 2015 has helped me complete my family, as I get ready to deliver my baby. I am happier that it is happening now to make the year so very special. Career wise, I am going up the ladder. I am thankful for the success and the recognition I received during the year - Golden Recognition Award from the Arab Women Council (in recognition of the efforts in social responsibility and the ‘Not Alone’ initiative to raise awareness about mental health within the Arab region in October), Honorary Doctorate for Youth Volunteer Projects, Dubai in May, and GR8! Women Achievers Awards - Middle East Award for Contribution to Society, Dubai in January. These have helped boost me and egged me on to work more for the causes that I uphold - awareness to mental health and child abuse. The coming year… It will make me older, but wiser too. I have come to understand the import behind the words ‘older and wiser’. Age has a steadying effect. There is strength today in patriotic slogans that were mere utterances as a school goer. You learn to appreciate things better and become more cautious. I am content, stable and more mature. I am learning more and feeling more calmer then the restless days of youth. I know what to do and how to go about it. For people who are making resolutions for the New Year, my advice is to instead make a note of what they appreciated and were thankful for in the year that has gone by.

(Sayyida Basma Al Said is the founder of Whispers of Serenity; she is a Mental Health Counsellor and Psychotherapist)

December 2015

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Shatha Al Maskiry: Optimising resources 2015 has been a challenging but a rewarding learning experience. Witnessing the growing deficit is a loud and clear message to all that we need to gear up in clearly setting our priorities straight. Our increased subsidy bills are weighing heavy on us, as it limits our capacity to spend and push for economic development. It is unclear where 2016 is headed, but we need to be forward thinking as far as the optimisation of our finances is concerned. We need to attract foreign direct investment and reconsider the incentives and subsidies given to industrial users. We must also focus on long term objectives and pull away from short term fixes. This is not so much about cutting spendings, as much as channelling them in the right direction; for example: investing in infrastructure, innovation and economic diversification will promise a sustainable future. However, this will depend on the decisions we make and those decisions should focus on an end result to create new jobs and generate new streams of income. This is also a reminder to start-ups and SMEs that their survival should not rely on the 10 percent of government spending, given the current economic climate, unless their business is positioned or is innovative to play a role in tackling the current climate we are in. We need to be very modest and resilient in 2016, as the low oil price and employment challenges may continue to keep the pressure on businesses. The key industries that we need to focus on are hospitality, real estate, construction, logistics and transportation; however, this does not undermine the other industries as the bottom line is that we need generate more income and create more jobs - which means we need to draw the best from our talent and spend mindfully to attract talent in tackling these uncertain and challenging times. When we run low of all resources, we can always place our bets on human capital and I do hope to see more energy directed towards talent attraction and development to shape a promising future. (Shatha Al Maskiry is the Managing Director of Protiviti Oman)

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Advertorial

Khalid Al Suwaid: Redefining dining Redefining dining will always be my ultimate vision and in the past year my strategy was to blend dining experiences with a whole lot of tailored entertainment. I take it as a challenge and work relentlessly to leave a mark on what I do by executing it in a way that has never been done before, because we all love a good surprise. I live to build anticipation and enjoy sending shock waves of entertainment - a K.S speciality, if I may call it! A whole lot of personalised entertainment to capture your attention - this remains my focus in 2016. (Khalid Al Suwaid is the CEO of Khalid Al Suwaid Enterprises; he is the Founder of Love At First Bite)

Muhammad Sultan Al Salmy: Designing success The year 2015 was a great year with many accomplishments. My architectural practice, Hoehler & Partner, received numerous awards and nominations in Oman, Dubai, Germany and New York. The three awards that I am particularly proud of were the Best Company for Leadership at the IAIR Awards in New York, the Special Mention Award GUtech at the German Design Awards and, just recently, the Best Performing Middle Size Company for the year at the Omantel Business Excellence awards. Taking part in Leaders in Construction Summit in September helped me understand the economical situation and position of the firm to best capitalise on the conditions of the economy. In the current trying times I am pleased that we are still able to further grow and expand with projects such as the GUtech Exhibtion Hall, The Embassy and Residence of The Federal Republic of Germany, and an upcoming Urban Oasis of hotel, office and residential complex in the heart of Muscat. Looking back over the year, I am also pleased to celebrate the completion of projects such as The University of Buraimi and the progress of the GUtech Exhibition Hall with its ambitious design combining the Omani cultural heritage, local conditions and the most up-todate technical building standards. And, looking ahead to next year, I think we will have some challenging times with the current state of the economy; however, I remain hopefully optimistic for H+P and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead. (Muhammad Sultan AlSalmy is the Managing Partner (Oman) of Hรถhler+Partner LLC)

December 2015

Duleep Mendis:

in CONVERSATION

A Timeless Match

“We want to make an impact!” asserts Oman Cricket’s Chief Development Officer and National Coach, Duleep Mendis, as the cricket team gets ready to make a mark in their first World T20 series in March 2016. “We don’t just want to say we participated in this tournament. We want to make an impact… T20 matches can go either way; there have been times when top teams have fallen. Anything can happen in a T20 game,” he states, emphasising the upbeat mood in Oman’s cricket camp. Mendis, whose cricketing stint as Sri Lanka’s national player began as a school goer in the early 1970s, has achieved several milestones in his long and eventful career; Oman’s qualification to the World T20, topping the list. His career in international cricket began in 1972; it was his last year at school and the match was against Pakistan, which was then captained by Intikhab Alam. Recalling his active cricketing days, he points out that his last match was in 1988. “I played in the ‘75, ‘79, ‘83 and ‘87 World Cups, captaining the Sri Lankan side in the last one,” he explains. Soon after, he took up the post as Sri Lankan cricket team coach for a year, before becoming the team’s manager. He was the manager when Sri Lanka won the World Cup in ‘96. In 2000 he joined the Sri Lankan Cricket Board as an administrator and in 2003 became the CEO of Sri Lankan cricket, a post he held until 2010. Two years ago he made the move to Oman, joining the Oman Cricket team as the Chief Development Officer and National Coach. “Since then I have been coaching the side

December 2015

Duleep Mendis, Chief Development Officer and National Coach of Oman Cricket, turns the pitch on the upcoming World T20, as he traces his long stint in g horizon Sri Lanka’s cricketing as well as doing development work…” he states, noting that it has been very o see the team’s earnestness gratifying to to learn in spite of all the hard work. “This mark of any team aspiring to is the hallmark grow,” he maintains. eartening, he points out, is What is heartening, uragement from the Board the encouragement rs of Oman Cricket, who of Directors bes as ‘dynamic’, especially he describes ng the roles played by Pankaj commending Khimji and Madhursinh Jesrani, in the nt of Oman Cricket. development bout the team’s Talking about ce in the qualifier performance in Scotland and Ireland, he affirms that it was one of mportant and the most important naments. “It crucial tournaments. ualifier for was the qualifier the World T20 and we started training hs prior 6 to 7 months act, we to that; in fact, eland went to Ireland onth about a month earlier to get d and acclimatised ore the train before t,” says tournament,” Mendis. rned the Having earned 0 status World T20 ears, the for two years, team is alll set to he Asia play in the ifier in Cup qualifier h Bangladesh in February 2016. ns for Preparations rneys the two tourneys p and – Asia Cup

“We got the opportunity to play in different formats of the game. Although Oman did not do extremely well, I am satisfied, as I didn’t want the team to peak too early,” he maintains.With more practice sessions scheduled before the end of the year in India, followed by training back home in Muscat, things look optimistic. Specialised coaches, who have previously arrived for short

training stints, will come down in January to train the team before they leave for the Asia Cup in February. As per the planned schedule, the team will first travel to India to get familiar with different wickets, before travelling to Bangladesh. They will return back to India for the prestigious World T20. Mendis admits that it will be a very tough tournament, but notes that the focus now is on making the team mentally tough and prepared for the goal. “The boys are very keen to learn and that is what is carrying them forward. It is easy to coach a team

when they are prepared to learn and move forward. We are on the right path and we hope to be successful in these two tournaments,” asserts Mendis who lives in Oman with his wife Dilhara. As the Chief Development Officer, he is also involved in the development of the national youth team, which has 75 percent Omanis, all fully sponsored by Oman Cricket. “We also want to take this game beyond Muscat - to Salalah and Sohar. We have already made plans and appointed committees and the Oman Cricket Board is very keen to take cricket to these two places to start with,” he states. tes.

in CONVERSATION

World T20 – began in November with practice matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where they played with teams from Hong Kong, Afghanistan, UAE and Nepal, who have all attained ODI (One Day International) status.

Up Close & Personal With

Duleep Mendis The home I grew up in...

I grew up in a place called Moratuwa in Sri Lanka, where cricket is like a religion.

When I was a child I wanted to...

I always wanted to be a cricketer. But when you are small you are not thinking of representing your country...you only want to play cricket. The moment that changed me forever...

When I played for Sri Lanka in n my las astt ye year a at schooll. M gre My reat ates estt in insp sp pir irat atio ion. n...

My y gre reatest insp spir irat a ion co come mess f om my wi fr w fe f , Di D lh lhar ara. a. I am so l cky th lu hat I got a wif ifee wh w o is mad abou ab outt cr c ic icke ket. t I tra t. rave veel a lo lott ow owin in ng too my game, my am me, but she has a nevver made ad de a fu fuss ss. ss. ss

My M y hero… erro… …

Garf Ga arf rfie i lld ie d Soobber e s… … I wass sma malll whe hen n tth he West Westt Ind We ndie iees ca c me me to Srri La Lank n a nk in ‘66 6 und n err thee cap apta pta tain ain incy of incy Garffieeld Sob Ga obeerrrs. ober ss.. In tth he la latter latt tttter stta agees hee bec h e am amee my y coa oach; ch h; he he coa oach ach hed Srri Lank S La ank nka fo for tw wo ye year ars when wh hen en I wa w as cca apt ptai ptai ain niing g. Wh W ha att I see e whe en I lo look k in th the the miirrrror m or.. r....

I se see ssoomeon meon me one wh who ho h ha as as acchiiev a eved d wh ha at hee wa w antted d – bot oth h iin n the ffiieelld ld

as well as in the administration. Towards the later stages of my career I realised I had to give something back and I got the opportunity to develop Sri Lankan cricket.

My greatest regret...

My greatest regret was that my children are not playing at top level. My two sons played cricket when they were growing growiing ng. The eldest s left to Australia for higher studies, but the second one serrved as the vice cap apta tain in of th thee te team am. Ho How wever, he too lefft forr Austra r lia, as di did d my y youngest dau ugh ghte ter. r. The eldest son n is doing ng bus usin in neesss ad admi mini n sttra rati t on n, seco se cond nd is a dooct ctor o and nd thi hird rd is working for ccrric icke k t in n Ausstrral alia ia.. You ma You may y no nott k kn now now o it bu ut I’ I m no go g ood at. t...

Musi Mu sic. si c. The plla ace ce whe here ree I com omee fr from om m iss fa am mou o s foor bo both crriicket ck ket and mu m usi s c, c, but I’m m no go goood od at mus at usic i . ic Thin Thin Th ings gs s I lik ke abo ab bou out Om O man an…

Whatt I liik Wh ke ab abou abou ut Om O ma an n is it its way wa y ooff liffe. e. To be ve To very y

frank, Oman Cricket’s i k Board d of Directors has given me a lot of encouragement. They are so passionate about cricket and I don’t have enough words to express how happy I am in Oman. The people in Oman are so friendly and it is a clean and peaceful place to live. On top of my wish/bucket wish/bu uck cket et list lis istt is is...

To see Oman beating some other top sides in World T20

My success man antra is...

I always do th thin ingss wit ith ha genuine heeart. t. I lov ove to seee peo eopl pe pl criticising g me to my my facce… … As you know w, meedi dia a in i Srii Lan a k ka a can be verry crit ittiiccal and whe itic hen yo you have a lon ng ca care reeer in cr cric ickeet an ic nd administrra ration tion n, yo you ha ave ve, e, do down wn wn the line, go got crriittic i is ised ed d welll a an nd truly. tr y If yo you ca can ccoope pe witth al all th that at and an d co cont ntrrol rol yo your urrse selff…t self …th hat iss a ha hat succceesss su ss. s. In 10 y In ye ear ars’ ars’ s’ tim me, I ho h op pe e to be be.. ..

Back Ba ck in Sri Sri Sr Lank Lan La nk ka a orr mov ove to to Au A ust stra ra ali lia w wh her eree childr ch ildr il dren en are r sseett ttle led d..

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Colours of

in the SPOTLIGHT

Liguria

Shades of Purple and orange and all ll the bright hues reflecting light and shadow bring ing out Gian Marco Crovetto’s Liguria to life e

hen an artist’s emotions and fe eelings find resonance in the colours flirting with the sunlight, the canvas has a way of exp pressing every nuance and establishing a sp piritual connect. Like Italian artist Gian M Marco Crovetto’s ‘Colours of my Liguria’ - an emotional rend dition of colours captured on canvas. His fascination for colo ours, found in his native Liguria, come out vividly in ev very work of art that portrays elements of Fauvism and Expressionism. The exhibition, which opened earlier this month at Baiit Zubair, portrays a rainbow of colours and textures, which can easily draw parallels with the beautiful sunsetss in Oman. The landscapes and seascapes of northeast Ita aly reflect the mountains and rocky coastlines of Musc cat and the colours are reminiscent of the hues of th he pomegranate and date harvests. It is organised by Bait al Zubair and the Embassy of Itally in Muscat, with the ‘Associazione Promotori Musei de el Mare onlus’, which is driven to promoting the maritim me heritage of Galata Museo del Mare of Genova, Itally. ‘Colours of my Liguria’ will be on until January 7.

December 2015

Gian Marco Crovvetto

in the SPOTLIGHT Talking to FACES on the eve of the exhibition, Crovetto said he was happy to be in Oman and described his visit as an incredible occasion, which afforded him a meeting with ‘all kind and hospitable people’. “I find that my region Liguria and Muscat have lot of things in common. We too have a heritage of sea and a tradition that is connected to the sea, which makes the seascape and the landscapes in my paintings so very similar. We too have these steep mountains close to the sea, which is represented in my paintings,” he explains. Delving further into his fauvist style, he maintains that it wasn’t a conscious decision to find inspiration in Fauvist expressionists. “It is just that through colours I can express my feelings, my emotions…” he says, hastening to add that they are not his thoughts. What inspire him most are the colours in the

nature. “My favourite times are dawn and sunset, when the light changes and mountains turn into another colour. It evokes special feelings in me. I am not really looking at the sun coming up or down; I am looking at the object – the roof, the leaf…how it changes. The perspective and the emotion came to me according to the light. The real inspiration, however, is in me. The lights change very quickly. It is the blink of the moment and things change. This change is what gives me inspiration to try to reproduce, through my feelings, what I just saw,” he states. In a foreword of the booklet highlighting his ‘Colours of my Liguria’ exhibition, Beba Marsano describes Corvetto as an artistic arsonist, and writes, “Corvetto seems, like les Fauves, to use tubes of paint as though they were ‘sticks

of dynamite’. …His aggressive palette forms landscapes with a highly emotional force.” Talking about the exhibition, Paul Doubleday Director of Bait al Zubair, which is partnering with the Ministry of Education to encourage 700 Omani school children to explore colour, texture and technique as well as create art works themselves, says, ‘Not only are the oil on linen works themselves spectacular, the works lend themselves to wonderful educational opportunities for Omani students, artists and young people. These art movements from the early 20th century have influenced Omani artists with their use of colour, symbol and shape. Investing in young Omanis cultural creativity is vital for the country as young Omanis are the custodians of Oman’s future culture and heritage.”

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The Chilli Factor

feast ON

Shorbas, chaats, tikkas, curries, dals, rotis and elaichi flavours - welcome to the world of ‘The Yellow Chilli’, where every dish is infused with a twist of scrumptious goodness

hen traditional Indian clay/ceramic jars transform as serving dishes and miniature ironing boxes of the good old days adapt to the present as containers to hold chickpea flakes, the food script of the restaurant is assuredly elaborate, with minute details of the process of cooking, presentation and the ambience adding to the complete experience of dining out. We are referring to ‘The Yellow Chilli’, the popular chain outlet that has been wowing foodies in the capital with its fine dining Indian cuisine. Brought to Oman by Sanjeev Kapoor, who has scripted food successes with his every venture, ‘The Yellow Chilli’ is a perfect window to his prowess as a culinary

December 2015

master. Chef Manoj Radi, i, who runs the kitchen at the picturesque outlet at The Walk in Al Mouj Muscat, does complete justice; he has imbibed the signature style of Kapoor to create masterpieces every time. With a second outlet all set to open in the Panorama Mall in Baushar, fans of The Yellow Chilli have more reasons to frequent the mall. Designed to portray the typical ‘Yellow Chilli’ concept, the restaurant exudes warmth and has that distinct welcoming note in its ambience. We were taken in by the sheer element of hospitality that greeted us.

ffeast eas ON Ea E ac ch h dis ish h he ere re is c co on nc ceptualised e tualised ep t o ex to xc cit ite al ite all the th he ffiiv ve e sen enses, with prese pr en nta tattiion n on the lines of art tth hat at co ou ulld d easily adorn walls as ma m ast ste err p piieces. With international culi cu lin na a arr y ingredients like basil, lemongrass, and the like entering le into Indian dishes, the novelty at The Yellow Chilli has been in using these ingredients in their own special way. Vegetarians can look forward to an exciting range of starters and mains, with the popular Shaam Savera leading the retinue of dishes. The Shorbas (soups) and the desserts (with the key elaichii – cardamom) pull all stops on the yum factor. Our tryst with The Yellow Chilli luncheon began with a quirky mocktail, titled ‘Peru Pyala’. A signature favourite of the restaurant, it is a confluence of flavours that pique your taste with mason jars rimmed with mild chilli powder and paprika, before enveloping your taste buds with guava juice, mixed with lemon and a hint of mint syrup. The ‘Shorbas’ followed in quaint containers, reminiscent of India’s ‘cutting g chai’ – Chef Manojj wanted us

to try tw wo wo distinctly different shorbas shorbas, and wiisely opted to give us small portion ns in little glasses. We tried the ‘Tomato o Basil Shorba’ and ‘Coconut and Shrrimp Shorba’ - while the tomato soup with w a touch of basil was on the pepperry side, the coconut shrimp combo o was a smooth concoction, withoutt the creamy texture. We also got to taste t the classic ‘Dahi Sev Puri’ and a novel n ‘Paalak Patha Chaat’. The ‘Paalak chaat’ took us by surprise batter-fried paalak k (spinach) leaves form the base of this crunchy chaat. Starters on our table included ‘Lemongrass chicken tikka’, presented with a scrumptious papaya and peanut salad in the centre; ‘Harippa paneer tikka’, a gourmet dish featuring grilled cottage cheese with chillies, tomato and garlic; ‘Channa jor garam tikki’, potato patties coated with crunchy chickpea flakes, served with mint cream yoghurt and papaya relish (we were treated to a side of chickpea flakes, presented in the opening p g of a miniature ironing g box); )

and ‘Tandoori Basil pr prawns’, a must try item for all seafood lovers. As if that was not enough to fill us, we tucked into the popular ‘Shaam savera’ (spinach koftas filled with creamy cottage cheese and served on tomato butter gravy), ‘Lalla Mussa Dal’ (a blend of black and green lentils), ‘Martban ke chholay’ (kabuli chickpeas cooked with ginger and roasted cumin, served in traditional clay pot), ‘Bhindi raitha’, ‘Nalli rogan josh’ (lamb shanks in a rich gravy), ‘Murgh survedaar’ (chicken curry with black pepper and fresh coriander) and ‘Murgh noormahal biryani’ (rose oil scented saffron flavoured chicken biryani). And the finale...was with masterpieces, routinely called as desserts. ‘Makhan elaichi mousse’ – butter and whipped cream with crunchy elaichii crackers,‘Cappuccino coffeecake’ with butterscotch lava, and ‘Zauk-e-shahi’ (rabdi and crispy sweetened bread topped pp with mini gulab jamuns) to cherish us until we gula visit the place again

December 2015

The Yellow Chilli fare

let’s COOK

Chef Manoj Radi presents easy-to-cook fine dining dishes to help create your festive spread

Dhingri Matar Hara Pyaaz Ingredients:

Arbi Ke Khaje Ingredients: z Colocasia roots (arbi): 16 (around 415gms) boiled and peeled z Oil: 1tbsn + for deep frying z Corn flour: ¾ cup z Salt: to taste z Kashmiri chili powder: 2tsp z Dried mango powder (amchur): 1tsp z Cumin powder: 1 tsp z Coriander powder: 1tsp z Chaat masala: 1tsp z Green chillies: 4 chopped z Curry leaves: 20 z To serve: Mint chutney (as required) Method: 1. Heat oil in a kadai. 2. Sift together the corn flour, salt and one teaspoon red chilli powder into a plate. 3. Press the arbi between your palms and coat them with the above mixture. Slide them into the hot oil and keep frying on medium heat until golden and crispy. Drain on absorbent paper and set aside. 4. Mix together the remaining red chili powder, amchur, cumin powder, coriander powder, chaat masala and salt in a bowl. 5. Heat one tablespoon oil in a non stick pan, add green chilies and curry leave and sauté for two minutes. Add the fried arbi and the mixed masala powders and toss well so that all the arbi pieces are well coated with the masala. 6. Serve hot with mint chutney.

December 2015

z Button mushrooms (dhingri): 22, blanched and halved z Green peas: 1 cup, boiled z Oil: ½ cup z Cumin seeds: 1tbsp z Spring onion bulbs: 1 cup, chopped z Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped z Turmeric powder: ½ tsp z Coriander powder: 1tbsp z Kashmiri red chili powder:1tbsp z Garam masala powder: 1tsp z Salt: to taste z Kaju-magaz (cashew nut and watermelon seeds) paste: ½ cup z Dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi): 2 tbsp z Spring onion greens: 1½ cups, chopped z Chaat masala: 1tbsp z Spring onion greens: 1 stalk, sliced diagonally Method: 1. Heat the oil in a non stick kadai and add the cumin seeds. When they begin to change colour, add the spring onion bulbs and sauté till well browned. 2. Add the tomatoes and sauté till the oil surfaces. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder and garam masala powder and continue to sauté. Add salt and sauté for five minutes. 3. Add the kaju-magaz paste and mix well. Add the mushrooms and peas and mix well. 4. Add one and half cups water, kasoori methi and spring onion greens and mix. Cook for five minutes. 5. Add the chaat masala and mix. 6. Serve hot, garnished with spring onion greens.

Health CHECK

Make ‘Health’ Your New Year Resolution

Whether you believe in making New Year’s resolutions or not, put HEALTH on top of your priority list as you welcome 2016

aking resolutions is one thing; keeping them, altogether another. But if health is the focal point of the resolution, it is almost mandatory to stick to them.

The idea should be to fix easily attainable goals without becoming over confident about the result. It is wiser to make only one resolution to ensure better success and enough time to channel your energy into it. And although New Year has a way of cajoling one to think of resolutions, it would make more sense to take time now to reflect on what exactly you want to achieve and even make a format with series of steps that will lead you to the goal.

If possible, involve your family and friends by informing them about your resolution, so that they can support you in your venture and ensure that you are reminded about it when things don’t seem too favourable.

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Check out some of the healthiest New Year’s resolutions you could make:

Lose weight

This is, possibly, the most commonest New Year resolution; one that is made to be broken by most who wait for the onset of the New Year initiate it. But, but, but…things are not as complicated as they seem. If you do not expect overnight success and make reasonable weight loss plans, you are bound to attain your resolution. Experts suggest using a food journal to keep track of what you eat and make sure you have someone in the family or friends who will support you.

One way of adding quality to your hectic life is to make time for friends and family; staying in touch is believed to be good for your health. Research has shown that people with strong social ties live longer than those who don’t. According to one study, lack of social connect can have a damaging effect on health.

in the coming year to get your requisite sleep, as it will not only do wonders to your mood, but also to your appearance. The health benefits of adequate sleep are aplenty - lack of sleep has been linked to a greater risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Save

It is all about making lifestyle changes to incorporate a sense of saving into it. In effect, a healthy lifestyle will make it easy to save money. There are various ways to go about it, most importantly home cooking instead of regularly eating out or bringing home takeaways.

Stress reduction

When you feel that you are under chronic stress, press the pause button and take stock of your life. For chronic stress can increase your risk of (or worsen) insomnia, depression, obesity, heart disease, and more. Remember, long hours at work, lack of sleep and exercise and poor diet all go to contribute to stress.

Health CHECK

Stay connected

Travel

This is one resolution that you could easily stick to, provided your job and your finances don’t act as excuses. Travelling has a way of letting you to tap into life as an adventure, and incorporate little make changes in your lives without having to do anything dramatic

Quit smoking

Of course, it isn’t as easy as it seems to people who keep advising you to quit smoking. Not to fret though; multiple attempts are often the path to success as most ex-smokers will affirm.

Get more sleep

We have all heard about the importance of 8-hour sleep every night, but how many are actually sticking to the healthy sleep cycle. Often, sleep is sacrificed at the altar of work and stress. Make it mandatory

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healthy BITES

Sleep Your Way to Good Health Despite lifestyle changes, calorie checks and regular workouts, if you still feel burned out, you could be missing out on your sleep, states Anu Bahl, Dietician and Clinical Nutritionist

e make lot of lifestyle changes, cut down on sugar and fat, hit the gym regularly, yet, we still feel burned out, can’t drop those extra pounds, and don’t have the energy to greet each day with enthusiasm. What are we missing? We are missing those precious hours of sleep! Remember how a baby sleeps, without a worry or stress. Due to increase in work pressure, facing computer screen for a long time and working shifts, has hampered our sleep patterns and quality of sleep.

Caffeine and sleep

To remain awake we need a stimulant and that is easily available in the form of tea, coffee and chocolate, but if consumed in more quantity we get addicted to it. In fact, lack of sleep creates a vicious cycle – the more tired you are, the more caffeine you will consume to stay awake during the day, as caffeine

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is a stimulant. This, however, will make it harder for you to fall asleep at night.

Exercise and sleep

Exercise is certainly good for one’s body and health, but exercise right before bedtime can lead to a poor night’s sleep. One should exercise at least three hours before bedtime.

How does sleep affect us?

Sleep affects our physical and mental health and is responsible for normal functioning of all systems of our body, including immune system.

Sleep deprivation affects:

z Our nervous system so it leads to drowsiness, lack of concentration and memory loss. z Body metabolism so body struggles to burn calories throughout the day, so the glucose converts to fat leading to weight gain. z Hormonal balance which affects weight loss and this leads to obesity. Leptin hormone that regulates appetite level, falls with lack of sleep so people who sleep less have bigger appetite.

How to improve sleep quality by proper nutrition 1. The first step toward better sleep is eating balanced, nutritious meals and snacks evenly spaced throughout the day. 2. Skip sugar and caffeine before sleep as both of them give energy boost and delay sleep. 3. Add complex carbs to your diet especially at night which will keep you full and enhance sleep. 4. Chamomile tea and green tea have a soothing effect and can help sleep better. 5. The vitamin B6 found in food such as poultry, fish, chickpeas, and bananas helps your body produce sleep inducing serotonin. 6. Calcium helps in stress reduction so low fat dairy products should be consumed twice or thrice. For an adult 7 to 8 hours of peaceful sleep is a must. You cannot sleep less in the week and cover it up on weekends. So to maintain good health a correct combination of food, exercise and sleep are required

Advertorial

Thousands of residents walk at Sixth Beat Diabetes Walk Over 10000 Participants took part in the community event

he sixth annual Beat Diabetes Walk saw the overwhelming participation of more than 10000 residents in a bid to raise awareness about the condition and promote the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. The walkathon was held under the patronage of Ministry of Health and Oman Diabetes Association. Chief Guest H.E Sayyid Dr.Sultan Bin Yarub Al Busaidi, Advisor of Ministry of Health, For Health Affairs, flagged of the walk and joined the supporters in the 2 km walk sporting blue 'Beat Diabetes' T-shirts. Commenting on the sixth edition of the walk, Clive Freeman, COO, Landmark Group – Oman said “We are grateful to the people of the Oman who stepped out of their homes to join the Beat Diabetes Walk. Through the Beat Diabetes initiative, Landmark Group encourages people to stay proactive about their own health and the well-being of their loved ones. We want people to make a conscious effort to lead healthier

lifestyles and regularly monitor their blood glucose levels. These are essential to the long-term health of our family, community and nation.” “We are grateful for the support we have received from the community. Their presence and participation have made this year’s Beat Diabetes Walkathon a grand success in Oman. We also extend our gratitude to Ministry of Health and Oman Diabetes Association for gracing the occasion & their continued support.” Starting 7am in the morning, Qurum Park buzzed with participants in blue T-shirts and caps. The emcees for the walkathon, Fit body, stepped up the momentum with live Aerobic session and entertainment especially curated to support diabetes awareness. The release of blue balloons, symbolic of the global color for diabetes awareness, accompanied by confetti showers signaled the start of the walkathon. The morning included several fun components to create a carnival like

atmosphere. At the Kids Zone, children were entertained with fun sporting activities such as mini basketball, wall climbing, bouncy castles, and assorted games. Beat Diabetes selfie stands prompted participants to pose for selfies. Other partners in the endeavour include the Al Raffa Hospital, OneTouch ,Oasis Water, Fit body, Muscat Pharmacy, Shell and Times of Oman. The Beat Diabetes initiative is of particular significance to the GCC countries and India with both regions ranking high in the International Diabetes Federation (IDF)’s list of countries for prevalence of diabetes. Landmark Group is the only retail and hospitality conglomerate to lead diabetes related educational and community-focused activities across five GCC countries. Landmark Group’s walkathons held across Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and UAE drew an overwhelming response.

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explore OMAN

Abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib Up on the mountain, nestled dramatically, is the abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib; replete with the old world charm of mud houses and archaic interiors that are designed to take you to another time and space

omes, even abandoned ones, have stories to narrate. Wadi Bani Habib, embracing the rugged inclines of Jabal Akhdar, has several. Strung like beads on a chain, little mud homes of this once thriving village grip the sides of a part of the popular Jabal Akdhar, adding a quaint touch to the tourist spot. A structured pathway, which, however, seems to have emerged naturally along the shaded way, take you down the little valley and lead you to this little hamlet that feels as if it has been

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a part of the mountain for eternity. There is an element of fragility around it and you are bound to pause, to catch your breath and soak in the scene unfolding, before taking the last few steps to the first small home that opens up right on your path. The patchy stone and mud walls and crumbly roof, with a waiting-tocollapse look, can seem intimidating, if you have claustrophobia to boot. But the scene is reminiscent of villages of yore and you might wonder if you have stumbled into some time zone. It does take you to a time and space that is so far removed from the city life that Muscat residents are familiar with.

If you are lucky and have made it to the village on a regular working day, when visitors who brave the drudgery of climbing down the steps to the village are minimal, you could even experience a oneness with nature gods, who seem to be in commune with the village. There is tranquillity, there is a palpable rustic charm and there is awe, as you ponder over the sheer human effort in building mud walls along a mountain that is replete with hard rocks, which are typical in this part of the world. Although some of the terraced floors have caved in or have ominous little

explore OMAN holes opening to the sky, there is a sturdy feel about these edifices that are bound to evoke confidence to explore even the little nooks and corners of the rooms - some of which still contain little decorative elements like drawings, mud shelves and little windows that are more for ventilation than scenic displays.

Pho Ph Pho hotog hotog ttoooggrap raapphs: ra hs:s Dez hs Deezre D zrreelel Feern zr errn rnan annddess and

Of course, the view, from any of the abandoned homes around, is jawdroppingly spectacular; in fact, some of the quirky additions around the home make you wonder how things would have been, once upon a time, when the homes were occupied and there were little children prancing around them. How did they manage their everyday chores? What about groceries and other essentials? Water...? It is this mystery; the enigma behind the lives of the occupants of these homes that bring tourists and visitors to this special place atop Jabal Akhdar, summer or winter, for a little tryst with time, stilled for eternity. For some things are best enjoyed as enigmas of nature or human behaviour

Jabal Akhdar Jabal Akhdar, which literally means â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;green mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, is part of the Al Hajar Mountain range. It is also known as the Saiq Plateau; it lies at higher altitudes (1800m) and receives around 300 mm of precipitation annually, moist enough to allow the growth of shrubs and fruit trees like pomegranates, apricots, peaches and walnuts. Jabal Akhdar is also famous for its rose plantations, and, depending on the season, visitors are allowed a dekko of the rose water factory. A 4Ă&#x2014;4 is mandatory to drive up the mountain, with a police checkpoint at the bottom ensuring that it is followed. There are, of course, tour guides with four-wheel drive cars around, which could be hired if you happen to have driven in your salon car from the city. The total distance from Muscat is around 150km.

December 2015

look GOOD

MAKE

TRENDS

Get make-up ready for the New Year with these trend cues that are bound to add to your savvy look

ay goodbye to the no-makeup look that has been ruling the beauty market. According to makeup artists, now is the season for bright red lips, electric blue eyes and glitter.

Go BLUE

Blue eye shadows have held the attention of fashionistas for long; but, this time around, the focus is on making graphic statements with a range of blues – from subtle blues to bolts of cobalt across the lash lines. Whether you go conventional or experimental - depending on your mood, occasion and gumption, you could wear blue in any way you want it. You could apply it along the inner corners or extend the colour from the centre of the top lash line – it’s about accentuating the eye.

Colour RED

Of course, there is nothing as classic as red lipstick, but makeup artists are giving it a thumbs-up as THE colour of the season. The idea is to go completely bold; whether you are opting for the glossy red or the velvet blood shade. The more exaggerated the red, the better for this season.

It’s BRONZE

Natural tan sheen is here to stay. Whether this has any takers in this part of the world or not, makeup artists suggest blending brown creamer with bronzer and highlighter for a tan sheen, one that is aimed at giving you a back-fromholiday look.

LASH it up

Focus is on giving your lash an exaggerated look. Trend observers would recall that mascara has been almost nonexistent over

December 2015

LIFESTYLE MANTRA

THAT ‘WEIGHT LOSS’ RESOLUTION By Sophia Raman

the last couple of seasons, for whatever reasons. It is now set to make a flashy comeback. Take it one step further by using your standard black eyeliner to play up the inner corners. Clumpy mascara could give you a model touch.

PINK streak

While lips have always welcomed shades of pinks and peaches, this time around it makes the move from the lips to the lids. All that you need to do is scribble the red pencil over the lids and then wipe it away to leave only a hint of pinkish stain.

Get FLASHY

Gleaming lids and glitter-rimmed lashes... Give your eyes a flashy look with jewels, lace, sequins and pearls – the choice, as they say, is yours. You could apply a quick smatter of sparkles across eyes and the bridge of the nose. You could also make the brows bolder by bedazzling the tail ends with silver sequins. But if you are looking for a quick fix, opt to dust lids with loose glitter or a twinkling lacquer.

GLOSS your face

The look is akin to the shine you would achieve after dancing for hours – a thin sheen of shine. To get the look, pat a thin layer of Vaseline over cheekbones, lids as well as under eyes. You could also use clear lip gloss - simply pat it over lids and cheekbones.

ALL YOUR WEIGHT LOSS RESOLUTIONS BOW OUT AT THE FIRST SIGN OF YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD? YOU ARE NOT ALONE…

eight loss resolutions are tricky. They have a way of ducking under the dining table every time your favourite food is laid out. Even when you muster all your willpower to come to your rescue, you could trip on that resolution and go on binge eating sessions with a ‘I’m-a-failure’ excuse. Often, even one indulgence could make you feel that all your hardwork is lost and put you in a guilt mode, one that could even make you reach for your comfort food. But all that could change if you make some concerted efforts to realise your goals. Here are a few steps designed to help you reach there... 1. Do not be over strict with your favourite indulgences. If it is chocolate that is on that list of trigger foods, make sure you don’t stock it at home, but allow yourself a treat or two during the week. 2. Diet is not about depriving yourself of food; it is about making healthier lifestyle choices. 3. When setting a weight loss goal, ensure that you have a good plan to back you up. Without a detailed plan, your chances of going back to your earlier eating patterns are high. 4. Get a gym membership, but begin by working out at home so that your motivation level is high when you hit the gym and begin your sessions with expert guidance. 5. Do not set unreasonable targets as they could easily make you feel discouraged. 6. Have a friend or family member who will make sure you stick to your plan.

December 2015

style FILE

‘By Amal Al Raisi’ Popular Omani designer Amal Al Raisi steps into the RTW world with her new line ‘By Amal Al Raisi’ mal Al Raisii, wh ho h ha as be b en e showcassin ng he h r work k und der the bann nner off Darr Al Al Ase seel, see el wh wher e e she has be been been n des esig ig gning tra adi d tional Omani dressse Om ses as as welll ass aba b ya y s an nd ja alabi biiya yas, has ven e tured into in to the rea e dy dy to we ear ar (RT TW) world with ith he it her er ‘b by Am Amal a Al Raisi’ co oll l ection on. on He er RT RTW co RTW coll llec ection n has a a tou ouch ch h of c co out u ur ure e and d is desig ig gne n d fo for wo wom men who me men are ar e ffe emini n ne ne but u not o del elic cat ate; e she he pay ayss trib trribute e to tod day y’s powe err wom oman oman n who prio pr io ori ritise tii es fa ami mily y but doe esn’t sto to op th hem e fro r m pu p rsuing ng g the he eir oth he err dre eams. s.. ‘b by Am mall Al R Ra ais isi’ i’ is desiigned to oh ho ono our ur Ara r b tr trad a itions ns bu utt her er goal is for or th he pi p eces es to b be e worn n far be eyond d the bor orders de erss of Om man an.

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style FILE Fo th For he SS S16 6 co ollle ect ctio ion, n Amal fo oun nd her i spirration in n to be th he floral univ versse. e The he c lou co urs th t att can an be se s en e thrrou ough gh th he e collec cti tion are re old d ros ose, e sof oftt gr g ey and nd d delliic catte whites e . It is th the e cutss and n cussto om-ma m-ma ade d fabrrics th t at are re equ q allly soft an and d fe emi min niine thatt com mpl p em emen ents t the ts h pow werfull wo oma man we earin ng itt. Th T e em mbr bro oide oide dery r is all do don ne by ha han and nd, wh w ic ch is a sig gna attu ure r she h is taking g fro om herr tr he tradit itiona t n l de d si s gn ns to o ad dd d a touch ch h of Arab luxurry to her e RTW W co ollle ect ction.

Dec De December ce emb mber e 2015 201 15

style FILE

Danube Home Launches ‘My Garden Catalogue 2016’ Over 55 new products added, make the product line comprehensive and the outdoor experience more refined

anube Home, the retail arm of building materials’ market leader, Danube Group , released their ‘My Garden Catalogue 2016’ for the discerning customers in the region. The catalogue features products in Textilene, Balcony, Metal, Swings, Gazebos, Umbrellas categories along with Garden Accessories, Lighting and Kids Play. ‘My Garden Catalogue 2016’ collection this season offers the widest range of quality products - highlights like exquisite Oro dining cum sofa sets will be completely hard to resist because these products are customised to save space. The customary ‘My Garden Catalogue 2016’ comes at a time when everyone is looking to refurbish the outdoor settings to their liking and in accordance with the weather. Signature products from Dolce Vita, Verde, Oro, Merlot, Brun, Scarlet, Comfort, Super Saver and Legno collections complete the catalogue. Adel Sajan, Director, Danube Group says, “At Danube Home, we offer unrivaled quality and innovative products to a set of audiences who are well aware of their needs. The unveiling of the ‘My Garden Catalogue 2016’ is once again a step towards strengthening relationships with our customers. Based on the research we conducted, the feedback we

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Dece Dece De December cem mb b ber er 2015 er 20 01 15

Adel Sajan

About Danube Home

Danube Home is the retail arm of Danube Group; a leading building material company in the Middle East. Danube Group was founded and established by Mr. Rizwan Sajan in 1993 - he was 7th on Top 100 Indian leaders in the UAE List by Forbes Middle East. Over the years, the Group has grown steadily from a small trading firm to being the no. 1 building materials company in the region, with

its diversified branches worldwide. Danube Group consists of Danube Building Materials FZCO, Danube Home (Interior Solutions), Danube Property Development (Residential Projects), DanubeDirect.com (Online Home Solutions) Danube F&B (Cha Cha Chai Café & Lounge), Danube Lifestyle (Tudors) and Danube Systems (Smart Homes). Today, the group offers more than 25,000 products and has over 5.5 million sq. ft. of logistics and warehousing area. Danube Home showrooms are present in major shopping malls across the region and in India. In UAE, Danube Home have showrooms in Dubai Festival City, Ibn Battuta Mall, Bawadi Mall – Al Ain, Dalma Mall- Abu Dhabi and stand alone outlets in RAK, Fujairah and Abu Dhabi.

The product portfolio of Danube Home includes luxury sanitary ware, ceramic wall and floor tiles, parquet flooring, elegant curtains, wallpapers, window blinds, chandeliers, carpets, home decor, hardware tools, ceiling, doors, paints, wall panels, garden & outdoor furniture, garden accessories, gazebos, pergolas, modular kitchens and many more building materials and home interior products. One of the key features at Danube Home showrooms is that it offers free interior design consultancy services. Customers can just walk in with their floor plans and get their interiors designed by professionally trained designers based on their individual taste and preferences selecting products from the widest range.

style FILE

received from our customers and usage pattern in the market, we are confident that the latest garden catalogue will go a long way in reinforcing our comprehensiveness- in terms of product offerings and brand value.” All products are available at Danube Home stores across Oman in Barka, Salalah and Muscat - Al Khuwair.

Danube Group operates 40 branches in 9 countries worldwide including UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kenya, India and procurement offices in China with employee strength of over 2,000. Danube Group has earned accolades and distinctions from various local and international bodies- Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Makhtoum Business Excellence Award, Dubai Quality Award, Dubai Customs Award, RAK SME Award, the Dubai Logistics and Supply Chain Award and UAE’s Top 20 Performers.

De D December ec ce emb mbe err 2015 20 01 15

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style FILE

American Eagle in Oman American Eagle Outfitters, which debuted in Oman in November, is wooing fashionistas

merican Eagle Outfitters (AEO), known around the world for offering great fashion at affordable prices, has opened with the new Holiday Collection, which focuses on individual style, free-spirited fashion and real people. The collection features on-trend pieces perfect for the cooler weather. The brand offers a wide range of clothing, accessories and personal care products. Denim is the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core, offering stylish and high quality jeans. For girls, AEO jeans come in 10 fits, 30 sizes and 49 washes including the AEO favorites: Extreme Legging, Jegging, Tomgirl and Skinny. These are also available in the super stretch and comfortable Denim X. For guys, AEO jeans come in 8 fits, 30 sizes and 49 washes. The range includes the newly- launched Flex Denim that combines both comfort and exceptional fit and comes in three levels of stretch; Core, Active and Extreme.

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December De D ece cemb mbe err 2015 20 01 15

ESQUE IT WITH ALE

THE STAR WARS TAKE OVER IS HERE!

AEO has everything a girl needs to stand out from the crowd in the season’s hottest trends, keeping comfort and style in mind. The blanket coat is essential for dry desert days offering effortless style, while the on-trend Mohawk print in a warm Southwestern palette adds a pop of color to the simplest of outfits. Wear with a classic pair of black sateen jeans, a figure-fit basic long sleeve tee, ankle boots and hat. For gents, the Holiday Collection sees the return of Buffalo plaid. AEO offers a vast palette of plaid shirts in warm and cool tones – wear it with destroyed denim, joggers or chinos and layer with the sheepskintrimmed denim jacket.

STAR WARS IS THE YEAR’S HOTTEST FASHION MOMENT, WHETHER YOU PRINCESS LEIA YOUR HAIRSTYLE OR IDENTIFY WITH CHEWBACCA WHENEVER YOU WEAR A FUR COAT, NOTES ALE ZADJALE In the entertainment world, Star Wars is driving people CRAZY; some guy even bought out an entire theater for one of the premiere showings just so that he can watch it and not be disturbed. It is no surprise that Star Wars has a strong following so the fact that it’s the newest fashion statement, shouldn’t be too surprising? Yes, you read that right, the new fashion statement is the additions of Star Wars characters on your clothes and we all expect the shirts but it’s now even on designer wear. Balenciaga was subtle and paid tribute to the C-3PO with leggings that would resemble the legs of one while Preen went all out and printed Darth Vader right on silk tops (with matching skirts if you are fancy tacky) Don’t stress yourself over the need to own R2-D2 on a coat or anything, if you want to join in on the fun, simply accessorise in tribute. I attend fashion shows with my Star Wars lunchbox, what tickles your fancy? Sure, not everyone has taken it to that extreme but one thing is for sure, Star Wars’ fashion takeover is global, whether you are shopping at Celine or Centerpoint. Happy New Year!

Ale Zadjale is a 22 year-old award-winning fashion designer; he is the brain behind the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing

December 2015

Advertorial

Community Connect initiative at

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Oman Avenues Mall Oman Avenues Mall demonstrated its commitment to the community with a novel initiative featuring a collection of old artefacts and items from Abdulaziz

dding to the festive mood in the city, Oman Avenues Mall showcased the endeavours of young Abdulaziz Al Kharusi in creating an inspiring collection of artefacts at a four-day long exhibition. Organised as a part of its ongoing Community Connect initiative to support Omani talents, the mall atrium on the first level turned into a museum of sorts, featuring items that are historically important to Oman and the world. From an oldest projector with slides and spy cameras to a working gramophone and currencies and coins that have become

Dec De December ce em mb ber er 2015 2015 01 15

collector’s items owing to little bloopers, Abdulaziz has a treasure of collection, including cameras, typewriters, coins and passports, as well as old home utensils, jewellery and handicrafts, which is otherwise displayed in his home for interested visitors, especially school children. Visitors to the Mall got a chance to take a firsthand look at the items, with Abdulaziz explaining historic details of every piece of item on display. Commenting on the exhibition, General Manager of Oman Avenues mall, Ben Watson said, Oman Avenues mall has always strived to be a destination for the Omani community, this is yet another step

in this direction, to give a platform to emerging talent, for showcasing their skills.” Talking about his work, Abdulaziz Alkharusi said, “The idea to collect unique items came to my mind when I found 1315 Hijri Anna (Coin), which made me, more excited to search, for more. The search begin in 2010 ,wherein I came across a rare collection of currencies and some valuable items which were very much of olden times.” The Oman Avenues Mall with its assortment of shopping options has indeed lived up to its tag line of being a place for all. The mall’s varied choice of retail outlets - with the world’s leading brands operating their flagship stores here - underpins its premier position as a must-visit destination in Oman.

take a SPIN

When outdoor spells O-U-T-L-A-N-D-E-R

n this part of the world, rld, wher where ere e big cars are seen more re as status symbol than outdoor machines, the new Mitsubishi Outlander makes a perfect crossover ossover to adapt to the needs of its users b by taking on the role of a family wagon, while transforming into its outdoor avatar when the mood beckons. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect full-time family car and part time recreation vehicle. So, whether you have a small family or have relatives to cater to, the new Mitsubishi gears up for the occasion. With simplified mechanism to unfold the second- and third-row seats, you can carry almost any combination of passengers and luggage; you can

December 2015

Wi improved seat folding and active With safety safe features incorporated into the refreshed new version of Mitsubishi refresh Outlander, the stress is on pleasant ride, Outland replete with soothing quietude in the cabin even fold down all rear seatbacks to create an extremely large and flat luggage area. It is these options that make it ideal for large families, especially the generous cabin space and seating that accommodates up to seven occupants. Described as the crossover of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Outlander, the updated 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander is enhanced to create a benchmark for comfort and ease, with all the new additions and c h a n g e s aimed at

refining the machine further. New enhancements in the windshield glass, which has been acoustically insulated, alongside plush carpeting and the foam blocks in the front fenders, have all gone to reduce noise control in the cabin, making every trip an experience in comfort. And while on comfort, what is important to note are the little thoughtful changes incorporated in the seats and the overall interiors to add to the pampered feel. We felt almost regal in our bright red Mitsubishi Outlander with silver trimmings providing artistic relief. While the colour heightened its visibility factor, we attribute the envious looks it garnered to the smoothness in the drive; as if moving on air. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a long drive on the city roads or off road to explore the scenic vistas of Oman, this beauty is designed to make the least noise about its presence (thanks

take a SPIN to the enhancements in NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) reduction). It certainly lets its performance do all the talking. There is a sense of refreshed feel in its dynamic new styling – from its assertive face to the attractive tail – and all the subtle hints of unparalleled driving pleasure. The new Mitsubishi Outlander delivers the high performance you demand of a rugged SUV, including powerful acceleration and responsive roadhandling, whether you are whizzing on the city roads or manoeuvring dirt tracks. Wherever you travel, you’ll enjoy next-generation SUV advantages while also minimising environmental impact as it ensures high fuel efficiency as well as low CO2 emissions. Electronically controlled

4WD offers incredible traction and stability even in challenging terrain by optimally combining with Active Stability Control (ASC). The Drive Mode Selector lets you select the most appropriate drive mode when desired. Equipped with the new-generation CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), you are assured of a smoother, more satisfying response in all driving conditions as well as quicker response during partial acceleration. While on the city roads, accident factors are reduced with the option of ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution). The Outlander’s ABS gives you the ability to suddenly manoeuvre safely around obstacles as you slow down; EBD assists by

applying additional force to the rear brakes as needed, enabling quicker stops even when carrying passengers and heavy loads. And if wheels lose their grip on slippery surfaces or while turning, ASC (Active Stability Control) automatically adjusts engine output and applies braking force at the appropriate wheels to help maintain control and prevent skidding. With Cruise Control, your speed is automatically maintained without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. So, if you are seeking pleasure in your driving experience, get behind the new Mitsubishi Outlander, in which every detail - from solidclosing doors to refined seating and instrument panel - contributes to your travelling joy.

De December ece cemb m er mb er 2015 201 015 5 Photographs: Pushpender Sharma

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New year eve SPECIAL

Happy New Year

Ring out the old and bring in the new, as hotels in and around the capital gear up for the special eve with festive spreads and fun activities

Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel

The stage is set for a memorable festive season celebration at the Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz Carlton Hotel. Ring in the New Year in style under the stars with a night of magic and mystique on the shores of the sea of Oman. Dress up to celebrate to the music of ‘The Tour’ band, straight from the Netherlands, at the masquerade gala night surrounded by the lights of the torches around the Infinity pool and on the beachfront of Al Bustan Palace. Start the midnight countdown by sending a flying lantern in the sky to greet the New Year. Enjoy a lavish New Year brunch at Al Khiran Terrace to celebrate the New Year in grand Ritz-Carlton style. New Year’s Eve dinner at Beach Pavilion will feature a delectable five course tasting menu to celebrate the most awaited night of the year on the shores of the sea of Oman, featuring festive favourites, for a night to remember. At China Mood it is fine-dining with Asian twist – a five –course celebration menu featuring signature favourites by Chef Lau and his team.

December 2015

New year eve SPECIAL

Al Nahda Resort and Spa

Join Al Nahda Resort & Spa on 31 December for their GLOW party, to end and begin the year with a glow! In store are party favours, prizes and a great time for all, along with DJ Chris Fisher - from RO15 per person, including two drinks at advance purchase (RO20 at the door). Dinner and two drinks also available for RO 40 net per person or dinner with free flow drinks for RO65 net per person (both rates on advance purchase) - all under the stars.

City Seasons Hotel, Muscat Get ‘Around the World in One Night’ at City Seasons Hotel, which will present food stations spanning all 6 continents with colours and flavours to make the NYE extra special. Spices from Asia and flavours from the Middle-East are artfully combined with festive favourite and traditional European fare. Live music will be on from the DJ deck to dance the night away. New Year’s Brunch will be extended to 2 January to double the festive occasion. An extensive selection of breakfast and brunch favourite platters will be on offer at the buffet, in addition to the numerous live-cooking stations. The Hotel has a special festive package offer for a New Year’s getaway for two persons at RO120, including the night in a Deluxe Room, breakfast buffet or New Year’s Brunch for two, New Year’s Gala Dinner for two; late check-out and full usage of pool and facilities are also included.

December 2015

New year eve SPECIAL

Grand Hyatt Muscat

Grand Hyatt Muscat has transformed into the perfect venue to celebrate the cheerful holiday season, revealing why ‘There’s No Place like Hyatt’. New Year’s Eve will see various events at the hotel. For a night out in the twenties, ‘The Grand Throwback’ at Mokha Café’s gardens is not to be missed; it will be a dazzling evening with live performers, great music and an abundance of food stations for RO 99, including unlimited selected beverages. Tuscany will welcome guests to a Black Tie dinner with a five-course set menu for RO 80, including selected beverage; Safari Rooftop Grill House celebrates New Year’s Eve with an all inclusive package for RO65; Club Safari is the place to party RO15 for entrance, including a complimentary beverage.

Hormuz Grand Hotel, Muscat New Year Eve at Qureshi Bab Al Hind will include appetising offers. Carefully crafted by their chefs to let the senses soar even higher over an exciting 6-course menu and superb drink pairings. Contemporary and thoughtful, the menu on Indian fine dining is enticed creatively with select drinks by their expert bartenders. Guests are welcome to join the after party at The Vault, post dinner, at RO50 net per person. Exclusive overnight package will be on offer till 31 December. Stay in one of their plush furnished rooms and indulge in the sheer excitement. Package includes RO45 plus taxes per room, breakfast, 15 percent discount at Ispa, 10 percent discount on F&B and late checkout at 5pm

December 2015

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with your family and friends at the InterContinental Muscat. Join the ‘White Party’ while dancing to the tunes of International live band ‘Bring the Party’ in the Concert Area and wrap up the year with special New Year’s Eve buffet, including free flow of selected beverages. Welcome 2016 at Tiki Bar under the stars; start off the New Year in spectacular setting at the Trader Vic’s with a five-course dinner. Usher in 2016 with the Latin band; enjoy an unforgettable night at Al Ghazal Pub.

New year eve SPECIAL

InterContinental Muscat

Start the New Year’s day with ‘Back-to-Business’ Brunch at the Musandam Café and Terrace Restaurant’s Palm Lane. Enjoy a lavish buffet full of culinary delicacies by Chef Pascal and his brigade.

Millennium Resort Mussanah Millennium Resort Mussanah has launched a new series of packages for guests to experience the ultimate family vacation this upcoming holiday season. The New Year’s Stay package for two delivers all the hallmarks of MRM’s signature hospitality. Guests will be able to enjoy the New Year’s Eve buffet Gala Dinner, and are invited to dress to impress with a black and white theme and live entertainment at RO150. All promotions can be upgraded to a sea view room for only RO10 and RO25 for children below 12 years with extra bed and the same meal plan.

December 2015

New year eve SPECIAL

Park Inn Duqm Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence is all set for the festive season. New Year’s Eve celebrations are at the RBG Grill; enjoy a set menu that is worthy of celebrating the last night of 2015. For family festive getaway package, the hotel offers RO60 net in one bedroom chalet, which includes breakfast buffet at the Ocean Restaurant, free internet, free use of outdoor pool and gym - valid until 10th January 2016.

Park Inn Muscat

Park Inn Muscat will host a lucky draw on New Year’s Eve. Two winners could get chance to win round trip ticket to Muscat- Istanbul –Muscat courtesy of Turkish Airlines (terms and conditions apply). To be eligible to win, patrons need to dine and party on Christmas and New Year’s Eve package of the hotel. Patrons can enjoy a package which includes a lavish elegant dinner followed by a party to ring in 2016. On 31 December, guests can book a seat for the elegant New Year’s Eve themed set menu at the RBG Grill, and follow it up with a complimentary entrance to the party on the roof of the hotel. The dinner is priced at RO40 net per person; entrance to Sama Terrazza without the dinner at RBG Grill is RO20 net per person and includes one beverage. The doors open at 7 p.m. and the party goes on until 2 a.m. A live DJ will perform at Sama Terrazza, setting the mood for the night.

December 2015

Welcome the New Year in style with an outdoor party under the stars. Set amidst The Lazy Lizard Garden the venue is a perfect place to countdown to 2016. An extravagant dinner buffet (RO45net per person including unlimited selected beverages) with the guest DJ is on the agenda, to keep guests entertained until the early hours of the first morning of 2016. At O’Malleys, it is a night full of party with live DJ entertainment. Enjoy the New Year ’s Day Bubbly Brunch at Olivos Restaurant & Terrace.

New year eve SPECIAL

Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

New Year’s Eve celebrations at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa is a perfect way to welcome 2016 in style and optimism with a superb night planned, including fantastic dining options and an exclusive countdown party. Al Tanoor and Samba will feature delicious buffets of international delicacies, while Bait al Bahr, Capri Court and Fairouz will impress dining guests with their outstanding set menus. Highlight of the evening will be a grand party taking place at the Turtle Beach for guests to experience a countdown party like no other, hosted by the Resort’s live band and their resident DJ. The After-Party will continue until the early hours of 2016’s new day at B.A.B. lounge, Long Bar and the Piano Lounge. To continue the celebrations on 1 January 2016, plan your New Year’s resolutions over lunch in Al Tanoor where you can enjoy lunch from the barbecue buffet on our newly renovated terrace of our Sablah area.

December 2015

Selfie Esteem, Relatively SPEAKING

you said?

Earlier this year, an online media agency initiated a ‘selfie’ esteem campaign to raise awareness of self-esteem issues

f you are guilty of pouting those lips and looking cute at your smartphone camera at the very mention of ‘selfie’, you may be accused of being a narcissist by selfie critics who are out to make mincemeat of all selfie posers - the ones who initiated an avalanche of selfie poses with the famous ‘duck face’. That the selfie craze has since evolved to include several other poses from the animal world, even those of the unfeathered kind, has fuelled their ire. But that has not stopped the social-media-driven world from inventing and reinventing the 2013’s word of the year, Selfie, with odd poses and weird gadgets. From the ‘sparrow face’ pose replacing the earlier ‘duck face’ and the ‘pose’ range widening to include frog face, fish lips, pigeon toe and the like, this is fast turning into a selfie world. With manufacturers feeding off the selfie plague with newer gadgets, life is a roller-coaster ride in the selfie zone. For the uninitiated (and the out and out social media recluse), a selfie is a self-portrait photograph, typically taken with a digital camera or camera phone held in the hand or supported by a selfie stick. Selfies are often shared on social networking services such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Selfie-esteem has been explained as taking an excessive amount of selfies to boost one’s image of him/herself.

The good, the bad and the ugly side of selifes But things might soon be changing – perhaps the critics have found success – with the initiation of a selfie esteem campaign that has roped in celebrities to put their first face forward by snapping just one selfie and sharing it unfiltered on social media. The campaign comes in the wake of a survey conducted by an entertainment channel, which found that women take an average of six selifes before posting one online; men take around four. And that means women, on an average, will take five

December 2015

selfies before being content with the sixth effort, which finds its way on the social media, while men tend to post their fourth one. The pressure to look ones best on social media has spiraled out of control, thanks, in some measure, to the Kardashians and a host of other celebrities who have taken to social media. The new campaign titled ‘#SelfieEsteem’has been championed by several celebrities to alter the concept of selfies from glamour/ beauty-riddled to untouched first images. The campaign, in effect, can be traced to the low self-esteem issues that seem to be underlying the obsession with looking good on social media. This has been corroborated by a poll that found nearly half of women and about a third of men are unhappy with the way they look, and most had body issues, with weight being a major concern. A research undertaken by a television show to find out people’s attitudes towards selfimage found that nearly 65 percent of women have anxiety issues about having their photographs taken. More than 40 percent of

MIND & BODY

THE POWER OF SUGGESTION: LIVING UP TO EXPECTATIONS women said that looking at photographs on social media made them feel bad about themselves. What is all the more shocking is that 4 out of 10 women and 3 out of 10 men say they avoid looking into the mirror owing to low self-esteem. But that hasn’t stopped teenagers from going all out with their selfie posts. A quick look at any Instagram or Facebook newsfeed is enough to highlight the issue, as it is often filled with selfies from various friends. A study, in fact, has confirmed that more than 90 percent of teenagers have posted a photo of themselves online. Instagram has been defined as the selfie heaven. Seen in the context of its popularity, it does feel right to believe that those who post multiple selfies are narcissistic, as the pictures usually highlight ones good looks. There is a strong urge among social media users to keep the social world informed on their appearance. While teens believe that these selfies boost their confidence and self-esteem, a growing number of users feel a sense of dejection and a loss of esteem as they try and weigh the ‘likes’ and associate it with their looks. ‘Better the look, more the likes’ is the underlying message that has people working on presenting their best face forward and creating issues of self-esteem. As one teen respondent in a survey pointed out, ‘Social media makes me feel more self-conscious about my appearance.’ Some experts hold low self-esteem responsible for people posting multiple posed and edited selfies to get confidence boost from others’ approvals. They believe that a secure and mature person would post selfies that are spontaneous and not overly edited.

THE CLAIM THAT THE POWER OF THE MIND IS INFLUENTIAL IS TRUE, BUT IT IS NOT THE WHOLE TRUTH, OPINES DR. AZIZ ALNAMANI Did you ever watch a YouTube video or heard a speaker at a motivational speaking event telling you that you can change your life solely through your power of mind? Perhaps you have read the popular book ‘The Secret’ and it made you a firm believer in the great power of positive thinking. But human beings are social beings that are highly influenced by people around them. Studies have shown that expectations influence our performance, but, surprisingly, it is not our expectations, but the expectations of people around us. When others expect us to perform well, we live up to these expectations; the bad news is that we also live up to the expectations of others when they expect us to perform poorly. In a new study conducted this year, women were required to drive a car simulator. Before the experiment half of the participants were reminded of the stereotype that women are poor drivers, the other half was not. The results showed that women who were reminded of the stereotype performed poorly in driving and made more mistakes. Psychological studies have demonstrated to us that the expectations of others have a high influence on how we perform. Now, how can this scientific theory help us in our day to day lives? Here are some tips inspired by the scientific research on the power of others’ expectations: z z z

Vanity Check Are you a selfie fan?

If you are a regular social media user who is frustrated with the unending blitz of picture-perfect selfies, give the #SelfieEsteem campaign a try. As per the campaign all you need to do is celebrate your unfiltered self by simply taking a selfie and posting it on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter without adding any filters or airbrushing it.

As a parent expect the best from your children and remind them that you believe they will achieve great things in life At work, whether you are the boss or not, keep in mind that your attitude affects your colleagues. As a first impression, highlight your strengths to others, especially if it is in a professional setting. For yourself, avoid toxic people who always put you down and tell you that they do not expect you to achieve anything; instead, surround yourself by people who believe in you and believe that you are capable of accomplishing your goals and dreams

Go ahead, experience selfie-esteeem…

December 2015

Home Centre Launches

at HOME

Star Wars

Themed Collection Home Centre is bringing home the ‘Force’ by collaborating with Disney to launch a never-seen-before collection that willl appeal to every Star Wars fans

tar W Wars’ universal appeal is what makes it pop pular across generations. Every product tells a story and d this Home Centre - Star Wars collaboration is a celebration ti of those stories, promising to reinforce fans’ emotional connection with the characters.

I line with the theme of the movie series, the products have In been styled as per the ‘light side’ and ‘dark side’, bringing be the iconic characters to life through a unique collection w which includes innovative products like the Darth Vader touch table lamp, the stormtrooper shaped rug, Star Wars posters featturing classic quotes, a Yoda shaped clock and lots more.

™

December 2015

at HOME Médéric Payne, CEO of Home Centre, said “This initiative is a first for us and we are thrilled to be collaborating with Disney to offer exclusively curated products. Star Wars has a huge fan following in the Middle East and we are sure this product range will find takers among people of all ages. This meticulously crafted collection reiterates our commitment to consistently innovate and offer signature choices to our customers.” Home Centre store stores will have ongoing activities for customers. Additionally, its social media platforms will be carrying Additional out ou engaging contests for customers wherein they will be given a chance to win Star Wars goodies.

December 2015

NBO named ‘Bank of the Year – Oman’ by The Banker National Bank of Oman has

Oman Air scoops two titles at World Travel Awards Oman Air is celebrating major success at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2015. For the second year in a row, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman has won the ‘World’s Leading Airline Economy Class 2015’ title. And in a move which confirmed the attention to detail for its premium customers, the airline’s lounge at Muscat International Airport was also named ‘World’s Leading Airport Lounge – Business Class 2015’. The awards were presented at a dazzling red-carpet Gala Ceremony, held at the Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in El Jadida, Morocco. Oman Air’s fleet currently comprises 40 aircraft, including two B787 Dreamliners, one Boeing 737-700, 18 Boeing 737-800s, five Boeing 737-900s, four Airbus A330-200s, six Airbus A330-300s and four Embraer E175s. Each features spacious and comfortable Economy Class seating, with pitches varying between 30 and 34 inches, depending on the aircraft type.

been named the ‘Bank of the Year - Oman’ at The Banker’s 16th Annual Bank of the Year Awards. NBO received the award in recognition of its impressive financial performance showcased in 2014. The bank recorded alltime profit growth to reach more than RO50 million. The Bank’s Tier 1 capital and total assets also increased by 9.7 percent and 2.7 percent, respectively, for the year. In addition, net loans, advances and financing activities were up 12 percent as operating income increased by 10 percent. The year 2014 saw the bank expanding its physical footprint both in the Sultanate and in the region. A second branch was opened in the United Arab Emirates, while the success of the bank’s Islamic banking window, Muzn, was supported by the opening of two new branches in 2014 and followed by a further three in 2015. NBO also launched the MyChoice Rewards loyalty programme in 2014.

Celebrity Chef Issa Al Lamki is A’Saffa Foods’ brand ambassador A’Saffa Foods has announced Oman’s celebrity Chef Issa Al Lamki as the brand ambassador of A’Saffa Foods. Through this synergistic agreement, Chef Issa Al Lamki will be promoting the products of A’Saffa Foods through all forms of communications and consumer engagement activities in Oman and also in the GCC and MENA region. Known as the Sultanate’s first celebrity chef - Al Lamki has built up more than two decades of experience working in the kitchens of prominent hotels like the Crowne Plaza (previously Gulf Hotel) and the Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz Carlton Hotel in Oman, as well as the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He is a firm believer in the importance of healthy foods, and supports A’Saffa’s mission to bring consumers 100 percent naturally-fed, hygienically-raised, farm-fresh, halal, healthy Chicken and nutritious allied products that taste great and provide energy for wherever life’s adventures may lead.

Ooredoo signs MoU with Qatar Airways for onboard Wi-Fi Ooredoo and Qatar Airways have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see Ooredoo sponsor Qatar Airways’ Onboard Wi-Fi service to enhance the customer experience on Qatar Airways flights and provide unmatched connectivity in the air. The first-of-its-kind MoU was signed by Waleed Al Sayed, CEO, Ooredoo Qatar and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H.E. Akbar Al Baker. With the Onboard Wi-Fi service, customers can use portable electronic p devices (PEDs) to access emails, browse the Internet and also send SMS/MMS via their smartphones once the service is enabled on board. The three-year agreement positions Ooredoo as the Exclusive Onboard Wi-Fi Sponsor for all Qatar Airways flights that are equipped with on board Wi-Fi.With Ooredoo’s sponsorship, all passengers can enjoy the first fifteen minutes of Wi-Fi for free. After the free period, customers will be able to continue using the Wi-Fi service by entering their credit card details .

December 2015

Jotun’s 2016 Wall Trends Jotun has unveiled its 2016 Wall Trends. Handpicked and developed by Jotun’s Global Colour and Creative Director, Lisbeth Larsen, together with regional colour experts, the Jotun 2016 Wall Trends is designed to cater to the design needs and aspirations of homeowners, both regionally and globally. The Jotun 2016 Wall Trends features a selection of beautiful colours and themes that are inspired by the world that surrounds us, be it the vintage blues of the forties, fifties and sixties, or nature’s glistening green leaves, or the simplicity of pure white. For 2016, Jotun has designed three colour themes that are inspired by various social, cultural and environmental cues; each theme features complementary shades that come together to create the overall look and feel for a space. The themes also function as mood boards to guide the colour selection process for not just walls, but also the surrounding furniture and accessories.

Series of workshops by Oman American Business Center The Oman American Business Center, in collaboration

The Wave, Muscat crowned 2015 Extreme Sailing Series champions The Wave, Muscat Extreme Sailing team made history

with multinational law firm Dentons, announced several interactive training workshops for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) at TheLoungeOman, starting December 9th 2015. Titled ‘Setting up a Business in Oman’, the series has been designed to empower local start-ups and encourage entrepreneurialism. Over 50 SME owners from across the Sultanate are expected to attend the seminars, which will run until February 2016. Dentons Associate Yasser Taqi will organise the first workshop in the series where he will spotlight the framework governing businesses in Oman and other legal topics. A second workshop is set to be held on January 10th 2016 and will focus on the key steps to start a business in Oman. The last workshop, which will kick-off in February 2016, will provide a detailed analysis of employment, contractual, and taxation laws as well as critical advice on dispute resolution.

when they swept to a resounding victory in Sydney to win the 2015 championship title. Drawing the gamechanging era of Extreme 40 racing to a close, Leigh McMillan and his crew of Nasser Al Mashari, Pete Greenhalgh, Sarah Ayton and Ed Smyth continued their dominance of the 2015 season by winning the final double points race to claim victory in the eighth and final Act of the season with Oman Sail stable mates Oman Air running in a close second. It was their fifth consecutive win this season following successes in Cardiff, Hamburg, St Petersburg and Istanbul and establishes a record that will stand forever due to the Extreme 40 catamarans being replaced by the foiling GC32s for the 2016 Extreme Sailing season. The Wave, Muscat’s 2015 crown brings the total number of titles to four.

1st Muscat Motorbike Display & Competition 2015 The Muscat Bikers have scooped up 11 prizes at the 1st Muscat Motorbike Show Display & Competition 2015. The winners for the Display & Competition were announced on 4th December 2015 at the Oman Automobile Association. The ceremony was presided over by H.H. Sayyid Faris bin Fatik bin Fahar Al Said. The participants of the 1st Muscat Motorbike Show Display & Competition were judged according to various categories by Usama Al Salmi, Hadhi Shakr, Fais Al Farsi and three international judges from Poland. A Drifting Show for visitors held alongside the Display & Competition and an Omani band set the tone for celebrating the passion for biking in Oman. Oman›s newest motorbike club- the Oman Motorbike Club was also launched for the first time in Oman at the 1st Muscat Motorbike Show 2015.

December 2015

Mercedes-Benz launches new-generation A-Class

Mercedes-Benz welcomed the highly anticipated dynamic New-Generation A-Class to its spectacular all-star line-up at an event held at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissa Resort and Spa. With striking lines, dynamically curved surfaces and coupé-style window lines, the New-Generation A-Class delivers a sporty presence, sparkling like a jewel in the big city with a look that is modern, urban and young. Meeting the wishes of customers, Mercedes-Benz has also increased the range of available engines with two superlative options now available. Sure to be popular, the A 250 produces a peak output of 155 kW (211 hp) and maximum torque of 350 Nm while the world’s most powerful mid-sized sports model, the Mercedes AMGA 45 4MATIC, boasts a peak output of 280 kW (381 hp) and maximum torque of 475 Nm, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds.

Mitsubishi welcomes New Year with Offer Bonanza

General Automotive Company, the official distributor of Mitsubishi Vehicles in Oman, is ushering in the New Year with special offers and cash gifts as part of its ‘Mitsubishi Bonanza’. Valid until January 14, this offer applies to all Mitsubishi Lancer EX, Pajero, and Outlander models. As part of the offer, Mitsubishi is offering each of these models with six years unlimited mileage warranty, six years roadside assistance and free registration. Customers purchasing either of these three models will also benefit from a free service package – 6 years/100,000km free service for the Pajero and 3 Years/50,000km free service for the Outlander and Lancer EX. Selected models will also come with cash gifts of upto RO1,045. In addition, any customer visiting the showroom and taking a test drive on any Mitsubishi vehicle during the offer period will be entered into a special draw. The Draw itself will be conducted at the end of the offer period, with four winners taking home a brand new iPad mini each.

December 2015

All-new Maxima 2016

Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, omobiles, the exclusive distributors of Nissan vehicles in Oman, unveiled the all-new game-changing 6.The completely redesigned 8th generation model is the sportiest most powerful Maxima ever. Nissan Nissan Maxima 2016. howcases Nissan›s new design language - including V-Motion front end, signature boomerang lights, Maxima›s styling showcases nd unique floating roof appearance. Inside, the Nissan kick-up C-pillars and m class-above, bespoke interior is anchored Maxima›s premium kpit that rivals luxury vehicles. The by a driver›s cockpit new vehicle was developed under the lue Angels at the inspiration of the Blue n Pensacola – Naval Air Station in ates. It holds Florida, United States. nspired by a specific style inspired ling theme the ‘jet fighter’ styling and ergonomic layout. Its d interior totally redesigned is anchored by a ‘command ockpit and centre’ driver’s cockpit poke style a premium bespoke crafted execution.

Fiat 500X 2016 now available in Oman

The all-new 2016 Fiat 500X, the latest addition to the Fiat lineup, is now available at Dhofar Automotive, dealers of the Fiat range in Oman. The Fiat 500X combines the authentic Italian design and engaging driving dynamics that are synonymous with the Fiat brand, together with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, unmatched functionality, and a full array of safety, comfort and convenience features. It is the first vehicle in the brand’s portfolio to offer an advanced all-wheel-drive system that will provide customers with peace of mind in all driving conditions. In Oman, the all-new Fiat 500X is available with a choice of the fuel-efficient 1.4-litre multiair Turbo engine paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, with an output of 140 hp or the 2.4-litre Tigershark multiair2 engine that produces 184 hp and is paired exclusively to a nine-speed automatic transmission on all-wheel and front-wheel-drive models.

Geely to go Hybrid by 2020

After undergoing a rebranding process recently, Geely is seeking to shift 90 percent of its sales to hybrid and electric vehicles by 2020, as part of its initiative to go green. The target represents a radical shift for a company that is an established manufacturer of petrol-driven vehicles. However, Geely has taken up this commitment in order to provide consumers with excellent cars that are economical, environment friendly and energy efficient. The company has already sold a total of 4,22,000 cars in the first 10 months of this year, up 10 percent year-on-year and ranked eighth among domestic brands, according to figures from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. Geely said most of its new-energy vehicles would be hybrids, with 35 percent purely electric. A senior spokesperson of Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the sole distributors of Geely range of vehicles in Oman, said, “ By committing to a deadline that’s 2020, Geely has demonstrated its confidence and technological superiority. It has proven that it is on a par with the world’s biggest automakers.”

December 2015

Chill Out

Mo ovies

Movie Review Director

Alejandro González Iñárritu

Cast Leonardo DiCaprio Tom Hardy Will Poulter Lukas Haas Domhnall Gleeson Brad Carter

The Revenant

Inspired by true events, The Revenant tells an incredible story of survival, of fortitude and of vengeance

n an expedition of the uncharted American wilderness in the 1800s, legendary explorer Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) is brutally attacked by a bear and left for dead by members of his own hunting team. In a quest to survive, Glass endures unimaginable grief as well as the betrayal of his confidant John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy). Guided by sheer will and the love of his family, Glass must navigate a vicious winter in a relentless pursuit to live and find redemption. He must go after the men who left him for dead following a bear mauling. According to the story, these men (presumably led by Fitzgerald) robbed Hugh Glass of all of his belongings before leaving him in the wilderness to die. But he survived, and now it is payback time…

Entertainment

Unlimited… The winners of

FACES-City Cinema

movie tickets contest in November 2015 issue are : Hamdan Mohammed Al Shueily 2 MX4D tickets Viola Pinto - 2 Regular tickets

November 2015

Book

Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget

Upcoming Releases 400 Days

Brandon Routh, Caity Lotz, Ben Feldman, Tom Cavanagh, Grant Bowler

A psychological sci-fi film centering on four astronauts who are sent on a simulated mission to a distant planet to test the psychological effects of deep space travel. Locked away for 400 days, the crew’s mental state begins to deteriorate when they lose all communication with the outside world. Forced to exit the ship, they discover that this mission may not have been a simulation after all.

Anesthesia

Kristen Stewart, Glenn Close, Tim Blake Nelson, Sam Waterson

While on his way home one evening, Walter Zarrow (Sam Waterston), a popular Columbia University philosophy professor, is violently attacked on the street. There is a domino effect of events that have led up to this seemingly senseless assault. Along the way, hidden connections between a seemingly disparate group of people —including a self-destructive student (Kristen Stewart), a hard-drinking suburban housewife, and a desperate junkie – come to light.

Sherlock: The Abominable Bride

Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Amanda Abbington Academy Award nominee, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Emmy Award winner, Martin Freeman, return in the thrilling new, feature-length Sherlock Special! For this one-off special, Sherlock has returned to 1895 Victorian London; which is precisely when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle set his original stories. Holmes and Watson must solve a new mystery from the pen of co-creators Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss. Also starring Amanda Abbington, Rupert Graves and Una Stubbs, the Sherlock Special is sure to thrill fans of the detective.

Book Review The Alchemist

Author: Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the magical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. The story of the treasures Santiago finds along the teaches the essential wisdom of listening to one’s heart, learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, above all, following one’s dreams.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Author: Stieg Larsson

Harriet Vanger, a scion of one of Sweden’s wealthiest families disappeared over forty years ago. All these years later, her aged uncle continues to seek the truth. He hires Mikael Blomkvist, a crusading journalist recently trapped by a libel conviction, to investigate. He is aided by the pierced and tattooed punk prodigy Lisbeth Salander. Together they tap into a vein of unfathomable iniquity and astonishing corruption.

The Count of Monte Cristo Author: Alexandre Dumas

Thrown in prison for a crime he has not committed, Edmond Dantes is confined to the grim fortress of Chateau d’If. There he learns of a great hoard of treasure hidden on the Isle of Monte Cristo and he becomes determined not only to escape, but also to unearth the treasure and use it to plot the destruction of the three men responsible for his incarceration.

November 2015

Web World

Chill Out If experts are to be believed, New Year’s pledges help maximise learning

New Year’s resolutions give a perfect opportunity for you and your child to discuss areas in which there’s room for improvement — so don’t miss out, urges the ‘Scholastic’ website. Log on to www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/ article/parent-child/how-about-resolution for some ideas on how to take advantage of those January 1st declarations. As parents, it is best to start introducing the concept of resolutions early, even as early as grade 3. ‘Simply stating your own pledge can open up a rich conversation. Be prepared to discuss, discuss, discuss! More curious kids can go online to explore how the traditions of making resolutions came to be,’ states the website. The next step could be asking your children if they have any ideas for a resolution of their own. Encourage them by challenging the rest of the family to come up with similar resolutions. For example, if your child wants to improve his/her reading skills, invite everyone else to come up with one reading-related resolution. You can even put your child in charge of collecting each family member’s resolution and making a poster chart of them, is the message promoted by the website, as it offers interesting options for a happy, healthy, learningfilled year. Besides, it also has a separate hyperlink with ‘Fun ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve With Kids’. Go on...check it out!

Riddle Time

1 2 3 4 5 66

Movies Mo

What do you call a computer that sings? What is it called when a cat wins a dog show? Who earns a living driving their customers away? What kind of jokes do you make in the shower? What do you call sad coffee?

November 2015

Want to make a New Year’s resolution?

Riddle Time Answers (November 2015)

What do lawyers wear to court? Answer: Lawsuits!

2 3 4

What is the tallest building in the world? Answer: The library - it has the most stories! What do you call a sleeping bull? Answer: A bulldozer! Why did the banana go to the Doctor? Answer: Because it was not peeling well

Why didn’t the skeleton go to the dance? Answer: Because he had no-body to go with.

Boo

Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget

Gadget Notes

Cat Street View

Google’s Street View is a tool that is designed to allow you to not only find places you have never been too, but also look at it as if you are there. It’s not 3D, but if you replaced the generic Street View camera height and lowered it so that you are looking at a level a cat might see, you would get Cat Street View. It is not endorsed by Google, nor is it an add-on for Google Street View; it is, instead, a wholly different project done by the Hiroshima Prefecture, as part on an on-going tourism initiative. The Cat Street View currently only offers a selection of the backstreets and shops of Onomichi, a Japanese town in the prefecture famous for its feline residents.

iPad Air 3 to be released in first half of 2016

World’s first modular phone goes on sale

Fairphone 2, a smartphone designed to be easy to repair and upgrade, went on sale a couple of weeks ago. The internal components of the Fairphone 2 are split into modules which can be replaced with minimal tools or expertise. The objective behind this concept, says the company behind the phone, is to encourage owners to keep their phones for longer, rather than regularly changing to new devices. Fairphone say they aim to create a more ethical device with an emphasis on reparability and sourcing key minerals used in the phone’s construction from conflict-free areas.

Bites At the end of a job interview, the human resource manager asks a young engineer what salary he is looking for. To which the engineer replies: ‘In the region of $125,000 a year, depending on the benefits package.’ The interviewer inquires, ‘Well, what would you say to a package of five weeks vacation, 14 paid holidays, full medical and dental, company

Turn any USB source into a wireless charging station

Turn any USB source into a wireless charging station with the Gecko - updated with extra perk. The Gecko, a threepiece kit consisting of Gecko Connector, Gecko Adapter and Gecko Dongle, works together to let your smartphone charge itself, via wireless, from almost any source. The Gecko Connector fits into your phone’s charging port, and has options for both lightning and Micro-USB. Small and thin, it has an incredibly slim profile and can be applied to any smart phone – with or without protective case. This then connects with either a Gecko Adapter (that goes on your existing sync or charge cables) or with a Gecko Dongle, which fits your power bank to turn it into a wireless charging station.

matching retirement fund to 50 percent of salary, and a company car leased every two years?’ The engineer sits up straight and says, ‘Wow! Are you kidding?’ The interviewer quips, ‘Yeah, but you started it.’ Teacher: ‘If I gave you 2 cats and another 2 cats and another 2, how many would you have?’ Johnny: ‘Seven.’ Teacher: ‘No, listen carefully... If I gave you 2 cats, and

Apple’s next 9.7-inch tablet, likely be called the iPad Air 3, will be out in the first half of 2016; however, it is unlikely to have 3D Touch because of production issues, according to a new prediction from KGI’s Ming-Chi Kuo. ‘While we think the 3D Touch supply chain produced more to avoid shortages in the early stages, slower endproduct demand and improved back-end assembly yield have resulted in the current high inventory. As 1Q16 demand looks to slow on seasonality and competition from other brands’ new models, the 3D Touch supply chain capacity utilisation is currently lower than peak level of 30 percent, and that will last through 1Q16,’ maintains Kuo. This isn’t surprising, considering that the iPad Air 3 has a much larger display compared to iPhone 6s and 6s Plus.

another 2 cats and another 2, how many would you have?’ Johnny: ‘Seven.’ Teacher: ‘Let me put it to you differently. If I gave you 2 apples, and another 2 apples and another 2, how many would you have?’ Johnny: ‘Six.’ Teacher: ‘Good. Now if I gave you 2 cats, and another 2 cats and another 2, how many would you have?’ Johnny: ‘Seven!’ Teacher: ‘Johnny, where in the heck do you get seven from?’ Johnny: ‘Because I’ve already got a freaking cat!’

November 2015

Chill Out

November 2015

FUTURESCOPE Aries

been able to tap into the feeling of empowerment yet, hang in there, as it is coming. You are really changing and your look might even be going through that process as well. Relationships as well as family themes are key for 2016. You’ll be finding new ways to see the inner operation of your commitment and family relationships.

You will soon be filled with a new vigour and it is possible that you decide to even change your look, may be in a radical kind of way. This is your year to step outside the box and switch up routines. Remember that everything happens for a reason and don’t let your faith in it shake. Chaos always comes right before some of the greatest and most beneficial changes so be ready...

Libra

Good things are in store... Radical shifts that took place in 2015 affected you deeply. The good news is 2016 is your year to rise up and feel the universal love. A new and beneficial 12 year cycle is approaching. The first half of 2016 will be a time to look more inward in order to prepare for a coming out in the second part of the year. Expect to feel empowerment and confidence as well as benefits in the relationship department.

Taurus

Things are looking up for you in the year ahead. You have been working hard to achieve your goals and 2016 is a time when you will experience some positive payback. You will soon bee moving into a time period where you can live a little and have some fun. Children, relationships and dating should be particularly beneficial. Important transitions could come in your career.

Gemini

The New Year will be anything but dull for you. You will gain extra benefits on the family front and will find they will be a great support to you in 2016. Relationships will go through a process of change. You’ll be finding ways to roll with the ups and downs. Something may not be working and 2016 will be a period to gain more awareness of what you need to feel complete. Decisions could be made in order to deepen committed relationships.

Cancer

Deep changes have been happening within you, considering that you have been going through a process of letting go of the old you, in order for the new one to take its place. Things are looking up for you in 2016 and you might find yourself taking more short trips and getting out more, especially during the first half of the year. Where you live or work could go through a process of change or readjustment in order to make it better. Coworkers could play a big role.

Leo

All that creative and inspirational energy you felt in 2015 is now going to manifest to a whole new level. It’s time to take your ideas and make them real. Money will be a prominent theme and you might find yourself spending more. However at the same time, you may also find additional sources of money. Your belief system is also going through some radical changes as well and you might find yourself connecting to new and unusual teachers.

Virgo

This is your time to shin; it’s time to make the best of your new found confidence. If you haven’t

November 2015

Movies Mo

Deepika Padukone (January 5, 1986)

Deepika Padukone is an Indian film actress and model. One of the most popular and highest-paid Indian celebrities, she has established a career in Bollywood films, and is the recipient of two Filmfare Awards. Daughter of badminton player Prakash Padukone, she was born in Copenhagen and raised in Bangalore, India. As a teenager she played badminton in national level championships, but left her career in sport to become a fashion model. She soon received offers for film roles, and made her acting debut in 2006.

Capricorn

(Dec 22 to Jan 21) A new plan is on the cards for many This year, accomplish more than you can imagine, simply by sticking to your favourite mode of doing things with slow steady efforts. It won’t involve anything flashy or earth-shaking. You have been working hard, but you have gone through some serious setbacks through the process. Your sense of self, as well as the stamp you want to mark on the world, has been going through radical change. Letting go has been a key theme of 2015 and now is the time to reap the rewards of that process. The first part of 2016 is beneficial to learning new things as well as your spiritual development.

Scorpio

The last few years have been intense and 2016 brings the point where you really embark upon your upward ascendant. Like the phoenix coming out of the ashes, you too will rise up and feel a sense of confidence again. The New Year might begin a time where you begin to get rid of things that no longer serve you. A new sense of value comes over you. You might also make some radical changes in your living environment or the place where you work.

Sagittarius

Prepare to get serious, Sagittarius. Big moves are happening all around you; they are shifting your awareness and pushing you to focus. The New Year will begin a totally new kind of adventure. You are moving into a chapter of great achievement. However, patience and determination will be key in getting there. This is also a great time for self-improvement and dieting. You are in the committed mind set.

Aquarius

Things are looking good for you in attracting people to help you accomplish your goals. There are benefits to be collaborating and combined resources. New sources of income may begin to manifest. You are also moving through a period where help comes a little easier. You may start travelling a little more in the second part of the year or you may take up a new learning endeavour.

Pisces

There’s no doubt about it, Pisces, some big changes have already begun manifesting deep within you. You have been cleaning out your emotional closet in order for the new you to fully emerge. That process will only continue in 2016. The release is going to help you get better in tune with who you are and what you want as well as put a shining light in the relationships department. Expect to move mountains in your career.

Boo

Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget

Weird News Ahem, the dead need Wi-Fi too

If you are a Russian living in Moscow, you would have free Wi-Fi in cemeteries too. These aren’t just your run of the mill graveyards though; the selected cemeteries are all renowned for having an eclectic mix of the dead - from former Russian President Boris Yeltsin to former USSR leader Nikita Khrushev. According to a statement from the Russian government, the Wi-Fi is meant for visitors to find the locations of famous graves and to look up the history of the person buried there.

Pay y for clean air

A restaurant in China’s smogfilled Zhangjiagang city, Jiangsu province, had been charging diners extra to cover the cost of its new air purification system, according to reports. The business added what it called an ‘air cleaning fee’ of 15 cents, per customer, to diners’ food bills. However, this fee has been dropped following complaints from patrons to the city’s consumer pricing bureau, who ruled that it was an illegal addition to the check because it was the company’s obligation to provide a healthy environment for diners. The restaurant owner couldn’t sell clean air as a commodity, they stated.

Drone to pull out tooth?

Yes, a dad in Oregon, used drone to pull out his five-year-old daughter’s first tooth. Ariana Schreiner, 5, allowed her dad Carl to tie her wobbly incisor to his flying gadget for a very special extraction. The video clipping of the extraction, uploaded on YouTube, starts with Ariana showing off her loose bottom tooth to the camera. She is then seen with a thin length of thread coming out of her mouth while her dad gets ready to fly the drone. As it rises in the air, the tooth comes out instantly. All that’s left is a gap where her tooth used to be, plus some impressive aerial footage of the extraction.

26-year old dog mistaken for puppy Britain’s oldest dog, a Yorkshire terrier called Jack - 117 in dog years - is so full of energy that people often think he is much younger. Jack has arthritis and can only walk short distances, but he is full of energy that belie his age. According to the record books, Jack could be one of the oldest dogs ever to have lived, and would be eighth on an alltime list if his age was proven by Guinness World Records. The dog to hold the title previously was believed to be a 25-yearold Jack russell called Meg from Somerset, but she died last December.

Happy New Year Did you know the first New Year was celebrated 4,000 years by the ancient Babylonians? Check below for more such fun facts about NYE z More vehicles are stolen on New Year’s Day than any other holiday, according to statistics. z Internationally, one of the biggest celebrations is in Sydney - more than 80,000 fireworks are set off from Sydney Harbour Bridge. z Time Square New Year’s Eve Ball was first dropped in 1907 after there was a fireworks ban. z In Italy, people wear red underwear on New Year’s Day to bring good luck all year long. z In Colombia, Cuba and Puerto Rico, some families stuff a large doll, which is called Mr. Old Year, with memories from the past year; he is set ablaze at midnight, thus burning away the bad memories. z It’s good luck to eat foods like black eyed peas, ham and cabbage because it is thought they bring prosperity. z But if you want to have a happy new year, don’t eat lobster or chicken. Lobsters can move backward and chickens can scratch in reverse, so it is thought these foods could bring a reversal of fortune. z Chinese New Year is celebrated the second full moon after the winter solstice. z In ancient Rome the new year began on March 1. z The traditional New Year’s song, ‘Auld Lang Syne,’ means, ‘times gone by.’ z The top 10 resolutions are usually to lose weight, eat more healthily, exercise more, stop smoking, stick to a budget, save money, get more organised, be more patient, find a better job and to just be a better person over all. z Using a baby to signify the New Year began in ancient Greece around 600 B.C.

November 2015

Airlines

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Emergency

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Airlines Emergency Cinema Beauty

Airlines Flight information ....................... 24519456 Aeroflot ....................................... 24704455 Ahlan Lounge ............................. 24519088 Air Arabia ................................... 24700828 Air France ................................... 24562153 Air India...................................... 24762111 Air Maldives ............................... 24566046 Air New Zealand ......................... 24700326 Bangladesh Airlines.................... 24701128 British Airways............................ 24568777 Cathay Pacific ............................. 24789818 Continental Airlines.................... 24816565 Egypt Air .................................... 24794113 Emirates Airlines ........................ 24404444 Ethiopia Airlines ......................... 24660314 Gulf Air .......................24703222, 80072424 Iran Aseman ............................... 24660313 Japan Airlines ............................. 24704455 Jet Airways ..................24787248/24787246 Kenya Airways ............................ 24660317 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines ........... 24566737 Kuwait Airways ........................... 24701262 Lufthansa..................................... 24796692 Malaysian Airlines ...................... 24560796 Middle East Airlines ................... 24796680 Oman Air .................................... 24531111 Pakistan International Airlines................... .................................................... 24792471 Qatar Airways ............................ 24771900 Qantas ........................................ 24559941 Royal Jordanian ........................... 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines ................ 24789485 Shaheen Air International ........... 24817021 Singapore Airlines ...................... 24791233 Sri Lankan Airlines ..................... 24784545 Swiss International Air Lines ...... 24796692 Syrian Airlines ............................ 24797567 Thai Airways ............................... 24705934 Turkish Airways ................ 24703033/ 2778

December 2015

Emergency Hospitals

Al Nahdha Hospital ..................... 24837800 Khoula Hospital........................... 24560455 Muscat Private Hospital .............. 24583600 Royal Hospital ............................. 24599000 Al Raffah Hospital .................. 98294371/70 KIMS Oman Hospital ................... 24760100 Burjeel Medical Centre .............. 22085252

Electricity

Muscat / Muttrah ........................ 24714300 Ruwi ............................................ 24701821 Salalah ........................................ 23219188

Water

General Enquiries ..............................1442 Muttrah ...................................... 24795775 Salalah ....................................... 23290222

Cinema

City Cinema Ruwi ................. 2456 7664/68 City Cinema Al Shatti ........... 2456 7664/68 City Cinema MGM................ 2456 7664/68 City Cinema Sohar ............... 2456 7664/68 Star Cinema ................................ 24791641 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540855 VOX Cinemas - MCC...................22344444

Cinema Beauty Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments Retail Sports Travel & Tour Operators Eat Out

Beauty Al Lilac Beauty Center ................ 24483994 Al Nahda Resort and Spa, Barka ................ 26883710 Ayana Spa ................................... 24693435 Beauty Centre ............................. 24697585 Beauty Today .............................. 24568991 Chi Spa, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa ....................................... 24776666 Daksha’s Salon ............................ 24562596 Emirates Medical Center............ 24604540 Essence Spa................................ 24603225 Europe Beauty Centre & Health ................. Club, CBD ................................... 24797813 Europe Beauty Centre & Spa .................... Wadi Kabir.................................. 24815805 Grand Spa................................... 24695766 Grand Spa (Bareeq Al Shatti)...... 95588880 Hana’s Slimming & Skincare ....... 24697270 Holistic Skin & Hair Care ............ 24601134 Hollywood Beauty Centre ........... 24568292 Kaya Skin Clinic ................ 24601700/4300 Kottakal Arya Vaidya Sala ........... 24701555 Manal Beautician ........................ 24479655 Muscat Beauty Salon ................... 24562541 Muscat Slimming Centre ............ 24565687 Nadia Beauty Salon ..................... 24689777 Nails Spa ..................................... 24699440 Raz Hair and Beauty Salon .......... 24692219 Saharz Beauty Centre ................................ ................................24695151 / 24696161 Signature .................................... 24490282 Sri Sri Ayurveda..........24480874, 92800793 The Chedi, The Spa .................... 24524400 Tips & Toes Nails Spa.................. 24603969 The Spa Bar for Men ................... 24698681 Touch & Glow Beauty.................. 24791979 VLCC .............................. Qurum 24695157 VLCC............................Mawaleh 24553535 Perry's Saloon ............................. 24538539 Zayna Spa, MRM ..........................26871555

Airlines Emergency Cinema Beauty Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartment Retail Sports Travel & Tour Operators Eat Out

Oman on your ÀQJHUWLSV

Health Clubs

Hotel & Hotel Apartments Muscat Region

Al Bustan Palace Hotel ................ 24799666 Al Bahjah Hotel ........................... 24424400 Al-Khuwayr Hotel Apts ............... 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn ................ 24596400 Al Fanar Hotel ............................. 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel .............................. 24702311 Azaiba Hotel Apartments........................... ................................24490979 / 99424470 Beach Hotel ................................ 24696601 Bowshar Hotel............................. 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat ..................... 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat.................. 24660660 Golden Tulip Seeb...................... 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat .................... 24641234 Haffa House Hotel ....................... 24707207 Holiday Inn Muscat ..................... 24487123 InterContinental Muscat ............. 24680000 Best Western Hotel ..................... 24692121 Majan Continental Hotel ............. 24592900 Marina Hotel ............................... 24711711 Mina Hotel .................................. 24711828 Muttrah Hotel .............................. 24798401 Nuzha Hotel Apts ........................ 24789199 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Park Inn ...................................... 24507888 Qurm Beach House Hotel ........... 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat.......... 24487777 Ramada Qurm Beach .................. 24603555 Ramee Guestline Hotel ............... 24564443 Ramee Dream Resort .................. 24453399 Ruwi Hotel .................................. 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites...................... 24691200 Qurum Beach Resort Hotel ......... 24605945 Shangri Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Barr Al JissahResort and Spa .....................24776666, 800708102 The Chedi Muscat....................... 24524400

Al Dhakliya

Nizwa Hotel................................. 25431616 Al Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel............. 25410500 Adam Motel ................................ 25434975 Al Diyar Hotel ............................. 25412402 Bader Aslam Motel ..................... 25435007 Bahla Hotel ................................. 25420211 Matan Motel ................................ 99062641 Majan Guest House..................... 25431910 Tanoof Guest House.................... 25411601

Al Batinah

Al Nahda Resort & Spa ............... 26883710 Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Millennium Resort ...................... 26871555 Sohar Beach Hotel ...................... 26841111 Al Wadi Hotel .............................. 26840058 Al Suwaiq Hotel .......................... 26862241 Green Oasis Motel ...................... 26846442 Ghurnata Hotel Apartments........ 26844539

Al Sharqiya

Al Ashkara .................................. 25566266 Al Qabil Resthouse ..................... 25581243 Al Raha Tourism Camp ............... 99343851 Al Sharqiya Gardens................... 99332264 Al Sharqiya Sands Hotel ............. 99205112 Al Wasil Camp ............................ 99332264 Desert Safaris ............................. 25593232 Golden Sands Camp................... 99445092 Ibra Hotel.................................... 25571873 Mahoot Hotel .............................. 25504401 Marsa Sur Hotel Apartments....... 25540784 Masirah Motel ............................. 25504401 Ras Al Hadd Beach Hotel ........... 25542031

Al Wusta

Ghaftain Rest House ................... 99485881 Ghaba Rest House ...................... 99358639 Haima Motel ............................... 23436061 Qatbit Motel................................ 99085686

Dhofar

Hilton Hotel Salalah .................... 23211234 Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah ...... 23235333 Haffa House Hotel Salalah........... 23295444 Al Hanna Hotel............................ 23290274 Al Jabal Hotel .............................. 23210611 Al Mazyuna Hotel........................ 23293340 Al Nassr Hotel ............................. 23294815 Al Saada Tourism Complex ........ 23225250 Bamasir Hotel ............................. 23293340 Darbat Hotel ............................... 23295877 Dhofar Tourist Hotel.................... 23282300 Redan Hotel ................................ 23292255 Salalah Beach Hotel Apts ............ 23235999 Salalah Hotel ............................... 23295332 Samahram Hotel Apts ................. 23295444 Thumrit Tourist Hotel .................. 23279371

Al Dhahira

Al Buraimi Hotel.......................... 25652010 Abha Hotel.................................. 25654700 Al Aeilat Hotel Apts .................... 25654330 Al Baraka Oasis Hotel Apts ......... 25650955 Al Dhahira Hotel ......................... 25650492 Al Masah Hotel ........................... 25653007 Al Raha Hotel Apts ...................... 24701898 Al Sharq House Hotel Apts ......... 24702399 Hamasa Hotel.............................. 25651200 Ibri Oasis Hotel........................... 25489955 Nafahat Al Burami Hotel Flats ..... 25654777

SEARCHING

Your Fitness Quotient....

Al Falaj Health Club ........................24702311 Al Majan Hotel ................................24592900 Al Qurum Resort .............................24605945 Adamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fitness Center ....................24684989 Balance Health & Fitness ...............24564132 Bodylines, Al Sawadi ......................26795545 Body Speak ......................................24765578 Crowne Plaza...................................24660660 Fitbody Gym....................................24601970 Fontana Club Radisson Blu ...........24487777 487777 Future Health Club .........................24600030 Fu 600030 Grand Hyatt Club Olympus ...........24641234 Gr 641234 Go 510300 Golden Tulip ....................................24510300 Ha 483399 Hammer Gym .................................24483399 Horizon Fitness Center ..................24571337 Ho 571337 InterContinental Muscat ...............24680000 In 680000 Muscat Holiday Inn ........................24487123 M 487123 Samaa Health Club .........................24694892 Sa 694892 Qurum Beach Resort Hotel ...........24605945 Qu 605945 Crowne Plaza Salalah .....................23235333 Cr 235333 Hilton Salalah ..................................23211234 Hi 211234 Sohar Beach Resort.........................26841111 So 841111 Sky Club, Park Inn ..........................24507888 Sk 507888 GY GYM, MRM .....................................26871555 871555

Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments

Musandam

Khasab Hotel .............................. 26730267 Qada Hotel ................................. 26731664 Isra Hotel Apartments................. 26730562

De D December ec ec ce em mb be err 2015 201 015

Sports Basketball

Oman Basketball Association .... 24796780

Boating

SEARCHING

Retail Sports

Retail Al Araimi Complex ..................... 24566180 Al Khamis Plaza .......................... 24562791 Al Harthy Complex ..................... 24564481 Al Wadi Commercial Centre ...................... .................................................. 24564782 Alasfoor Plaza ............................. 24564686 Capital Commercial Complex (CCC) ...... .................................................. 24567338 Jawaharat Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Shatti Complex ....... 24692113 Khimji Megastore........................ 24708075 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540222 Sabco Center .............................. 24562761

Bowling

Al Masa Bowling ......................... 24693991 Oman Bowling Centre ................ 24480747 Seeb Novotel .............................. 24510300

Classes

Al Falaj Hotel (Martial Arts, Tennis, ........... Swimming).................................. 24702311 Grand Hyatt Muscat (Aerobics, Ballet, Salsa, Yoga for women) ............... 24641234 InterContinental Muscat (Fitness workouts, Aqua Aerobics, Spin, Pilates+) ... 24680000

Cricket

Oman Cricket Club .................... 24703142

Cycling

Muscat Cycling ........................... 98453580

Diving & Snorkeling

Centrepoint

Al Khuwair ..................96473101, 24601569 Fahad Plaza, Ruwi ....................... 96725845 Muscat City Centre .................................... ..................................96473113, 24558063 Sohar .......................................... 95119656 Salalah ........................................ 23289260

Muscat City Centre

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Blu Zone Watersports.................. 24737293 Desert Adventures ...................... 95201107 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Dimaniyat Diving ........................ 24795545 Global Scuba .............................. 99317518 Gulf Leisure ................................ 24693561 Musandam Extra Divers.............. 99877957 Muscat Divers ............................. 99355671 Muscat Diving and Adventure Cente......... .................................................. 24485663 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours ........... .................................................. 92645889 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Sub Aqua Dive Centre Salalah .... 92471073 SEAOMAN, MRM .........................24181400

Muscat City Centre (Mall) .......... 24558888 Bata (Footwear) ........................... 24558855 Emax (Electronics) ..................... 24558062 Home Centre .............................. 24558063 Max (Fashion) ........................ 24558981/82 Origem (Fashion)........................ 92648542 Oysho (Fashion).......................... 24558865 Rado (Watches) ........... 9776492, 92247101 Salsa (Fashion) ............................ 24558631 Sunglass Hut ............................... 24558869 Zara (Fashion) ............................. 24558887 Zara Home .................................. 24558869

Golf

Muscat Grand Mall

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Al Sawahil Horse Riding ............. 95177557 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153

Muscat Grand Mall ..................... 22000000

Capital are Yacht club ................. 24737712 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Grand Hyatt Boat House ............. 24641234 Gulf Leisure ................................ 99819005 Marina Bander Al Rowdha .......... 24737288 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours ............ .................................................. 92645889 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107

December 2015

Almouj Golf Club........................ 22005990 Ghala Valley Golf Club ............... 24591248 Muscat Hills Golf Club ................ 24510065 Mini Golf, MRM ...........................26871555

Hiking

Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ....... 24485663 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107

Horse Riding

Qurum Equestrian School........... 99832199

Ice Sports

Ice Skating Centre ...................... 24489492

Jet Skiing

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545

Kayaking

Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ...... .................................................. 24485663 Rob Gardner ............................... 99239658 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240

Motor Sports

Bikers Oman ............................... 99556430 Harley Davidson Owners Group ............... .................................................. 99310853 Oman Automobile Association ................. .................................................. 24510239

Rock Climbing

Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ........................................ 24485663 Rob Gardner ............................... 99239658

Rugby

Muscat Rugby Club .................... 24604890

Running

Muscat Road Runners ................. 24692903

Sailing

Castaways Sailing Club ............. 24594613 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153

Sport Fishing

Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Grand Hyatt Boathouse ............... 24641234 Gulf Leisure ................................ 99819006 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ...... .................................................. 24485663 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Marina Bandar Al Rowdha .......... 24737288 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Water World Marine ................... 24737438

Squash

Al Falaj Hotel .............................. 24702311 Al Sawadi .................................... 26795545 Crowne Plaza Muscat.................. 24660660 Grand Hyatt Muscat .................... 24641234

Tennis

Oman Tennis Association ........... 24751902

ABC Tourism ............................. 244582663 Adonis Oman Travel & Tours 24693371 Advantage Travel & Tours ........... 95220095 Airborne Travels......................... 24479295 Al Azure Tours .......................... 244565745 Amazing Arabia ..........24701454/99310005 Al Ahlam Tours ......................... 244892612 Al Areesh Wahiba Camp ............ 99317107 Al Daleel Tours ........................... 23296503 Al Ghadeer ................................. 99325441 Al Ghubayra ............................... 24812874 Al Haditha ................................... 24603587 Al Hashar Tourism & Travels ....... 24836100 Al Hasn Araimi Travel ................. 24799966 Al Maskry Tourism & Travels ...... 24595241 Al Naheem .................................. 24478192 Al Noor ....................................... 99318822 Al-Qandeel Travel & Tourism ..... 24643877 Al Raha Tourism Camp ............... 99343851 Al Sawson ................................... 24485637 Arabian Sands Tour Services ...... 24785027 Arabian Sea Safaris..................... 24693223 Arabian Trails ............................. 24475437 Arise Travel and Tour ................. 24605825 AST Tours ....................24571311, 23298085 Bahwan Travel Agencies............. 24797405 Choice Holidays ......................24660364/7 Desert Discovery ........................ 24493232 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Eihab Travels .............................. 24683900 Elite Travel & Tourism................. 24485020 Empty Quarter Tours .................. 99387654 Ena Tourism ................................ 23298500 Global Tours ............................... 24484156 Golden Oryx Tours ..................... 24489853 Gulf Leisure ................................ 24693561 Gulf Ventures .............................. 24559985 Kanoo Travel ............................... 24700249

Khasab Travel and Tours............................ 26730464 Kurban Tours & Travel ................ 24699886 Mark Tours .................................. 24782727 Marmul Travel and Tours ............ 24482868 Majan Travel ............................... 24785728 Mezoon Travel ............................ 24796680 Midland Tourism......................... 24566524 Moon Travels ............................. 24793551 Nahar Tourism Oasis .................. 99387654 National Travels & Tourism (NTT) .............. 24660376 Nomad Tours .............................. 95495240 Nomadic Adventures and Tours................. 99336273 NTT Tours............................... 24660378/70 OTTB ........................................... 24789845 Oasis Tours .................24499922, 99440441 Oman Geo Tours......................... 24600914 Oman Discovery ......................... 24706424 Oman National Transport ........... 24490046 Oman World Tourism .................. 99252680 Orient Holidays .......................... 24478902 OUA Travel ................................. 24559900 Premier Tours ............................. 99222620 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Remal Al Sharqiya Tourism......... 24544525 Rusayl Travel .............................. 24510012 Salalah City Services .................. 23299663 Salalah Tourism........................... 23292289 Sama Al Wasil Tourism Village................... 99604004 Shanfari Travel and Tours ........... 27602710 Sumahram Falcon ....................... 95774166 Sun and Sand Tours .................... 99373928 Sunny Day Tours, Travel & Adventure ........ 24490055 Steps Travel and Tourism............ 24488891 Tour Oman .................................. 24799966 United Tours ............................... 24787448 Zahara Tours ............................... 24400844

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Travel & Tour Operators

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5 SEARCHING

Arabian Al Khanjar ........................................24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Samar .............................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa

Al Istanbuli ......................................24480900 Next to Rawasco, Al Khuwair

Samat (Iranian food) MQ.....................................................99 889394 Qurum................................................24605515

Al Reef Al Lebnani ..........................24485775 Al Khuwair, Opp Safeer Bld Al Tanoor .........................................24776540 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Al Zafran ..........................................26841111 Sohar Beach Hotel Arab World Al Ghubrah ......................................24491734 Ruwi High St. ...................................24798119 Automatic Al Khuwair .......................................24487200 Azaiba...............................................24499981 Bareeq Al Shatti...............................24605735 Qurum..............................................24561500 Seeb ..................................................24424343

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Al Deyar ...........................................24603553 Next to Shatti Plaza

Kargeen Café AL Harthy Complex ........................24560531 Centrepoint .................................... 24694048 MQ Complex ...................................24692269

Shahrazad ........................................24776565 Al Husn Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Shiraz................................................24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Tarboosh Opp Sabco Centre...........................24565673 Al Ghubrah ......................................24498553 The Arabian Courtyard .................24524400 The Chedi Muscat The Khanjar Omani Cuisine ..........24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Turkish House .................................24488071 Al Khuwair

Beirut Restaurant ............................24568411 Near Qurum Roundabout

Ubhar ...............................................24565689 Bareeq Al Shatti

Bin Ateeq Al Khuwair .......................................24478225 CBD ..................................................24702727

Wadi Hadramout Restaurant Al Khuwair ......................................24475282 Al Bahar, MRM ................................26871553

December 2015

Cafe’s

Al Ahli Cafe ................................ 24424400 Al Bahjah Hotel Al Falaj Coffee Shop ................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Al Fursan ................................... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Al Maha ...................................... 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn Al Makan Café Muscat City Centre ..................... 24545311 Shatti Al Qurum .......................... 24404200 Al Mas......................................... 24491105 Bowsher Hotel Deluxe Atrium Tea Lounge ..................... 24764000 Al Bustan Palace Barista ......................................... 24571531 Sabco Centre Cafe Barbera .............................. 24603505 Near Shatti Cinema, Shatti Al Qurum Café Capuccino .......................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel Café Ceramique ......................... 24566617 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum

Caribou Coffee........................... 24694473 Bareeq Al Shatti

Mood Café Madinat Plaza ............................. 92125639 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24538752

Casa de Cafe .............................. 24499565 Midan Hotel Suites

Patisserie .................................... 24479344 Risail Complex, Seeb

Colombian Aroma Cafe .............. 24693131 Bareeq Al Shatti

Petit Café .................................... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel

Coffee Republic........................ 244703739 Qurum City Centre

Pink Berry................................... 24558113 Muscat City Centre

Costa Coffee Seeb Intnl Airport ....................... 24519734 MQ .............................................. 24692858 Muscat City Center..................... 24535895 Oasis by the Sea ......................... 24605574 Alasfoor Plaza ............................. 24571236 Lulu Bowsher .............................. 24503861 Bareeq Al Shatti .......................... 24692699 MBD ............................................ 24793169

Pooldeck ..................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

Chado Tea Lounge..................... 24500773 Oasis By The Sea D’Arcy’s Kitchen Jawaharat A Shatti ....................... 24600234 MQ .............................................. 24699119 Glacier Café Markaz Al Bahja ......................... 24540200 Zakher Mall ................................ 24540391

Café de Lotus.............................. 24560439 Al Khamis Plaza

Gloria Jean's Coffees .................. 24662940 Fun Zone, Qurum, MGM........................................... 22009295

Café G Patisserie ........................ 99531999 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos

Golden Bean Café ..................... 96969645 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum

Café Samaharam......................... 24707207 Haffa House Hotel

Grind Floor ................................. 24487777 Radisson Blu

Café Torque ................................ 24500773 Azaiba

Le Mermaid Café ........................ 24602327 Near Grand Hyatt Muscat

Café Unique................................ 96684686 Ruwi

Majlis al Shams ........................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

Richoux cafe .............................. 22005165 Opera Galleria Ground Floor Rumours Cafe ............................. 24692121 Coral Hotel Muscat Second Cup CCC, Qurm ................................. 24566616 Shatti Al-Qurum .......................... 24699951 Bareeq Al Shatti .......................... 24697776 Sirj Tea Lounge ........................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Shalashil Café ............................ 24498008 Star Hotel Apartments, Ghubra Starbucks Ernst and Young bldg ................. 24567644 Jawaharat A’Shatti ....................... 24601457 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24558861 MQ .............................................. 24699367 Borders, Muscat City Centre....... 24558636 Qurum City Centre ..................... 24470588 Surf Cafe ..................................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Sidewalk Cafe and Deli .............. 24563058 CCC, Qurm Naseem Lounge, MRM .................26871553

6 SEARCHING

Café Vergnano 1882.................... 24692370 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos

Mokha Cafe ................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Mokha Cafe ................................ 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat

December 2015

Far Eastern

SEARCHING

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Bamboo Kitchen ......................... 96969645 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum China Mood ................................ 24764000 Al Bustan Palace InterContinental - Muscat China Town ................................. 24567974 CCC, Qurm Chinese Durbar .......................... 24486688 Al Khuwair Chinese Garden ......................... 24489414 Al Khuwair, Near Ice Skating Rink Chinese Palace ........................... 99563368 Al Wadi Commercial Centre Pal Meera.................................... 24692368 Shatti Al Qurum Golden Dragon ........................... 24697374 Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos Golden Oryx .............................. 24702266 Rex Road Jade Garden................................ 24605945 Al Qurm Resort Magic Wok Muscat City Centre ..................... 24537118 Qurum City Centre ..................... 24470596 Mamasan .................................... 24210452 Marjan Rest. and Pool Bar ........... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Meji’s Aroy Thai .......................... 99839595 Shatti Al Qurum Palayok ....................................... 24797290 Ruwi High Street, opp. OC Centre & Al Khuwair Shang Thai ................................. 24483083 Al Khuwair slip road Silk Route Chinese & Thai........... 24696967 Al Noor Plaza, Madinat As Sultan Qaboos Royal China ............................... 24571339 Shatti Al Qurum Hot Pot & Grills ........................... 24404291 Bareeq Al Shatti Thai Basil .................................... 24499565 Midan Hotel Suites, Ghubrah The Noodle House ...................... 24558377 Muscat City Centre Tokyo Taro .................................. 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Wasabi Sushi............................... 24699490 Bareeq Al Shatti Mydan, MRM ...............................26871553

December 2015

Fast Food Chicking Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540200 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24489575 Cold Stone Creamery ................................ 24470614, 95202436 Qurum City Centre Coral Express ............................. 24540200 Markaz Al Bahja Dairy Queen Jawaharat A’Shatti ....................... 24693031 Lulu, Ghubrah ............................. 24504504 Seeb Intnl Airport ....................... 24519468 DQ Grill & Chill .......................... 24693031 Jawaharat A’Shatti Domino’s Pizza ............................ 24479111 Al Khuwair Dunkin’ Donuts Ghala .......................................... 96177967 MQ .............................................. 96177967 Shatti Cinema ............................. 96177967 Gourmet Burger Kitchen............. 24558065 Muscat City Centre Il Gelato Di Bruno ....................... 95275987 Oasis By the Sea Hardees ...................................... 24477774 Al Khuwair, Wattyah, Al Khoud, City Centre One number for all the four stores Hot and Crispy ........................... 24699524 Al Masa Mall, Sarooj Just Falafel................................... 22009922 Muscat Grand Mall KFC ............................................. 24477777 One number for all the 21 stores Ruwi, Qurum, Al Khuwair, MCC, QCC, Lulu Ghubra and Darsait, Near Airport, Azaiba Roundabout

McDonald’s Al Khuwair .................................. 24482046 As Sarooj..................................24691033/4 Muscat City Center..................... 24545773 Book Roundabout ....................... 24421119 Qurm Behind CCC ..................... 24565798 Papa John’s Pizza Lulu, Ghubrah ............................. 24501111 MQ .............................................. 24697220 Qurum ........................................ 24571100 Muscat Intl Airport...................... 24519468 Ruwi ............................................ 24793153 Al Khoudh ................................... 24546516 Penguin Ghubrah ..................................... 24493963 Seeb............................................ 24422004 Sultan Qaboos University ........... 24413144 Pizza Inn Ruwi ............................................ 24784555 Al Araimi Compex, Qurum ......... 24566661 Pizza Muscat Al Khuwair .................................. 24483393 Al Harthy Complex ..................... 24565618 MBD ............................................ 24817715 Pizza Hut ..................................... 24822500 Wadi Kabir, MBD, Rex Road, Qurum, CCC, QCC, MSQ, Al Khuwair, Ghala, Bowsher, Ghoubra, Airport, Al Khoud, Mawallah, Mabella, Barka Subway Oman Oil, Qurum Jabal .............. 24666704 Al Khuwair .................................. 24593963 Al Masa Mall ............................... 24604664 CCC............................................ 24560327 MQ .............................................. 24694774 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24558080 Wally’s Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540200 Al Masa Mall ............................... 24543154 Al Khuwair .................................. 24502929

Indian

Lazeez ........................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa

Aaryans ..................................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel

It’s Mirchi ................................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel

Ananthapuri .............................. 24706226 Opp. Muscat Municipality, Darsait

Mumtaz Mahal ............................ 24605907 Qurum

Annapoorna ............................... 24810396 MBD

Mughlai Zaika ............................. 24568200 Wattayah

Biryani House ............................. 24488478 Al Khuwayr

Omar Al Khayyam Restaurant .................... Ruwi ..........................24703035/ 24707082 Al Khoudh ..................24535001/ 24539718

Copper Chimney........................ 24780207 CBD Curry House ............................... 24564033 Wattayah Mullapanthal ............................... 95267540 Ruwi Chowpatty .................................. 24488829 Al Khuwair Daawat ........................................ 24787980 Ruwi Divine ......................................... 24705070 Ruwi Dosteen Restaurant ..................... 24622850 Seeb Happy Village ............................. 24564995 Qurum Horizon Restaurant ..................... 24798252 Ruwi Hot Pot Restaurant...................... 24700691 Near Khimji’s Mart, Darsait Kamat Al Khuwair .................................. 24479243 Ruwi ............................................ 24783300

Passage To India ......................... 24568480 Behind Hatat House Princess ...................................... 24482213 Al Khuwair Punjabi Dhaba ............................ 24787755 Darsait

Puranmal...................24707172 / 24706969 CBD Sagar .......................................... 24794114 Ruwi Saravanaa Bhavan ................ 24704502 / 07 Near Ruwi Roundabout Spicy Village.............................................. Al Khuwair .................................. 24475518 Rusayl ........................................ 24510120 Nizwa ......................................... 25431694 Sohar ......................................... 24843238 Sur ............................................. 25544594 Customer Care ............... 800spicy (77429) Sayujya Restaurant...................... 24816909 MBD Swagath Veg Restaurant.............. 24707676 Ruwi The Indus Restaurant .................. 22022888 Opera Gallaria - Shatti Al Qurum

Capri Court ................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Come Prima................................ 24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Muscat

Keranadu .................................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel

Taj Samarkhand Restaurant ........ 24582040 Muscat Oasis Residence, Bowsher

Khana Khazana............................ 24813466 Ruwi

Tawa Magic ................................ 24703300 CBD

Mediterranean Grill.................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

Khyber ........................................ 24781901 CBD

The Great Kabab Factory............ 24478373 Al Khuwair

Koliwada .................................... 99421778 MBD

The Taj ........................................ 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

O Sole Mio .................................. 24487777 Radisson Blu - Muscat Trattoria ...................................... 24210451

Kumkum...................................... 24714114 Muttrah

Woodlands.................................. 24700192 MBD, Ruwi

Pane Caldo ................................. 24698697 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex Pizza Express .............................. 24696169 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al-Qurum Tuscany....................................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat

December 2015

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The Bollywood ............................ 24565653 Qurm, Behind CCC

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

International Al Bandar Lounge ....................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

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A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

Japengo....................................... 92892868 Qurum

Al Aktham ................................... 24489292 Al Khuwair, behind OIB

Jean’s Grill .................................. 24567666 Sultan Center

A’Rifaak ...................................... 92558842 Al Khoud, Main Street

Jungle ......................................... 24561600 Qurum Rose Garden

AlExandria.................................. 24561611 Qurum, next to Sabco Center

Khaboura Cafe............................ 24592900 Majan Hotel

Al Khiran Terrace Restaurant ..................... Al Bustan Palace ......................... 24764000

Khalab .......................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa

Sundowner’s Beach Bar............... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Al Waha Lounge ......................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

La Brassiere ............................... 2471 3707 Muttrah

TGIF ............................................ 24488899 Al Khuwair, City Seasons Hotel

La Mer ........................................ 95038487 Shatti Al Qurum

The Beach Restaurant ................. 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

Left Bank ..................................... 24693699 Below Mumtaz Mahal restaurant, Qurum

The Chedi Pool Cabana.............. 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

Le Jardin...................................... 24510300 Golden Tulip Seeb

The Crepe Cafe .......................... 24558530 Muscat City Centre

Beach Pavilion Restaurant and Bar Al Bustan Palace ......................... 24764000

Love At First Bite ......................... 24601737 Shatti Al Qurum

The Serai Pool Cabana ............... 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

B+F Roadside Diner................... 24698836 Bareeq Al Shatti

Musandam Café.......................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat

The Restaurant ............................ 24524400 The Chedi Muscat

Blue Marlin ................................. 24737940 Marina bander Al Rowdha

Musandam Restaurant ................ 26730267 Khasab Hotel

The Coffee Shop ......................... 24704244 Ruwi Hotel

BreadTalk.................................... 24603033 Bareeq Al Shatti

Nando’s ....................................... .... 24561818 Opp CCC Muscat City Centre

Tinello......................................... 24502570 The Treasurebox Hotel

Assira Pool Bar............................ 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Bait Al Bahar ............................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

Bread and Co.............................. 24698379 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al-Qurum Buffet Restaurant ......................... 24697967 Bareeq Al Shatti Chilli’s Muscat City Center .................... 24558815 Qurum City Center .................... 24470700 Circles ........................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Class Room ................................. 24813141 National Hospitality Institute, Wadi Kabir Coral Reef Cafe .......................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Coffee Shop ................................ 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Four Seasons ............................... 24707207 Haffa House Hotel Golden Spoon Al Khuwair .................................. 24482263 Seeb Souq................................... 24424204 Hamburger Nation ...................... 24558077 Muscat City Centre

iFoods ......................................... 24121114 18 November St, near Sultan Centre, Azaiba

December 2015

Neptune Bar................................ .... 24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Nouras Al Shatti .......................... .... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Odyssey ...................................... .... 24824240 Oman Dive Centre, Bandar Jissa sa Olivos.......................................... .... 24487777 Radisson Blu Retro ........................................... .... 24571339 Shatti AL Qurum RBG Grill .................................... .... 24507888 Park Inn Muscat Samba ......................................... .... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr rr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Slider Station .............................. .... 24698990 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al Qurum rum Stomach ...................................... .... 24692486 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex Sultanah ...................................... .... 24776666 Al Husn Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr rr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

Trader Vic’s................................. 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Tropicana.................................... 24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Muscat

Long Bar and Xyro ...................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Nirvana ......................24781901/ 97015530 CBD

Mediterranean

O'Malleys .................................... 24487777 Radisson Blu

Bellapais .................................... 24521100 Risail Complex

Periwinkle’s Pub ......................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Mediterranean Grill ................. 246803000 InterContinental Muscat

Piano Lounge .............................. 26776666 Al Bander Hotel, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah

Tomato ........................................ 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Azure, MRM .................................26871553

Pubs & Lounge Al Ghazal .................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Al Jizzi Lounge ............................ 26841111 Sohar Beach Hotel Al Marrah Pub ............................ 24424404 Al Bahjah Hotel Barrio Fiesta ............................... 24592900 Majan Hotel Churchill’s Pub............................ 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn

Mexican Pavo Real .................................... 24602603 MQ Senor Pico................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Mydan, MRM ...............................26871553

Sama Terazza ............................. 24507888 Park Inn Muscat Sports Bar ................................... 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn The Hut ....................................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

The Wahiba ................................. 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort

Club Safari.................................. 24602327 Grand Hyatt Muscat Copacabana ............................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Duke’s Bar ................................... 24660660 Crowne Plaza

The Lazy Lizard ........................... 24487777 Radisson Blu

Club Bar ..................................... 24704244 Ruwi Hotel

Steak & Grill

Feeney’s Irish Pub....................... 99262821 Al Qurum Resort

Grill House ................................. 24603660 Grand Hyatt

Habana Cafe ............................... 24602327 Grand Hyatt Muscat

Just Grilled.................................. 24601290 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al Qurum

John Barry Bar............................. 24641234 Grand Hyatt

Kobe’s Sizzlers .........24563220 / 24564092 GBM Building, Qurum

Layalina Bar ................................ 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn

The Safari Rooftop Grill .............24641234, .................................................. 24641114 Grand Hyatt Muscat

Le Pub.............. Pub......................................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel

Is your enterprise missing in our lists?

Rock Bottom Cafe’ ...................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel

Please mail u us the details editor@faces editor@facesoman.com or call us on: + 9968 24563382/24563385 For a Quick E Entry!

SEARCHING

Tapas & Sablah ........................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes

December 2015