Y Magazine #254, 23 January 2013

JAN 23 – 29 • ISSUE 254 • WEEKLY

JAN 9 – 15 • ISSUE 252 • WEEKLY

MANTA RAYS SLAUGHTERED FOR THEIR FINS

NEWS / VIEWS / REVIEWS / MIDNIGHT CRICKET

44 GAMING ESSENTIALS OUT & ABOUT IN SEEB YUMMY MUMMY RETURNS

Your top guide to the best of Oman, every week

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ashion Special

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EVERY WEDNESDAY NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR

Highlighting The Top Trends Of MFW

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Features

dealing with dyslexia

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Beauty

24

HIDDEN HENNA

Outdoors

36

destination jaylah

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RACE TO IT

EDITOR’S

NOTE

WORDS: Kate Ginn

The race is on to find the next young rally drivers of the future to take Oman to the next level in motorsports.

International rally champion Hamed al Wahaibi will spearhead the campaign, it was announced this week at the launch of the Oman Youth Rally Cup. Young Omani men and women are being offered the chance to live out their dreams of becoming rally drivers.

In a talent-show type contest, 18 will be selected from hundreds of applications to become part of three teams competing to win the Youth Rally Cup, an initiative by Safety First, Oman’s leading non-profit road safety campaigning organisation.

As well as finding the new generation of motoring racing stars, the project has two other aims: acting as a platform to educate young people about road safety and instilling them with the confidence and skills to become leaders in their chosen fields.

An average of three deaths per day happened on Oman’s roads in 2011, a rise of 22 per cent from the previous year, according to Royal Oman Police statistics.

“We are taking youngsters who are the next generation and training them to become a sportsperson or be effective in their own area,” said Hamed al Wahaibi.

“It’s very ambitious and we are very excited about it.”

The project will cost almost half a million rials in total. Al Wahaibi has given nearly OR200,000 out of his own pocket but needs private sponsors to make up the rest. As yet, not a single sponsor has come forward.

So far, 200 have applied for the chance to become a rally driver, co-driver or technician, with just one female applicant among them. Applicants Andis excestrunt, nusanis must be agedautem between 16-32.

After aesreview dolupta tessinus et process, shortlisted candidates fugiam il everi ommos se-will go through aptitude quunt, and physical fitness quodipsum siti andusci assessments and interviews. psamus, corrore rspienis ulpar The most talented will be chosen for the three of a driver, Cat teams, que sedicomprising velit ut laborum int co-driver and four who will que nest, auttechnicians, veratur, torum compete for 0971 the Rally Cup in a specially 1234 5678 designed Toyota Yaris car, built and tested for rallying in Oman.

The first race will be on March 7.

Ahmad al Harthy, Oman’s top racing driver and also involved in the project, said: “I believe that Omani youth are highly talented and our support and mentoring will enable them to achieve great success in and outside Oman.”

Welcome to the new look Y Tabloid- your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has to offer.

Fast forward F

ashion isn’t something that exists in just dresses. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.

These words belong to Coco Chanel but I share her sentiments. Fashion is more than a frivolous pastime – it’s about evolution, expression and energy. It’s about being on the pulse of things. That’s why, on the back of Muscat Fashion Week, we decided to do a fashion special, reporting on all the trends and backstage gossip.

Talking of trends – here’s a tragic one – manta and eagle rays found dead on Azaiba beach this week. The discovery by a Y reader has prompted fears that these beautiful sea creatures are being killed for use in Chinese medicine. Horrible. And all the more so because there is little or no evidence that killing such a graceful species has any medicinal benefit.

Penny Fray

editor@y-oman.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi

For details www.safetyfirstoman.com CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eihab Abutaha CONTRIBUTOR Kate Ginn, Joe Gill, Chevron Mosquera

follow us on:

@ytabloid

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan LOGISTICS MANAGER Ayman Canawati

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

We’d love to hear your news and views. For editorial enquiries, please email info@y-oman.com

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

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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contents JANUARY 23 2013

Features 18 Fashion Special

Muscat Fashion Week 24 Dyslexia

Finding Words

10

Your Oman 06 The Big Interview

Naji Zeitouni 08 Voice of Oman

Readers’ Letters 10 News

Manta Ray Shock

Food & Drink 28 Restaurant Review

More Café 29 Gallery

Beauty & the Beast

28

This Week 13 Movies Listing

Zero Dark Thirty 14 This Week

The Sound of Spirit 16 Gallery

Spear Fishing

13 Health & Beauty 30 Fashion

Bags of Style 32 Makeup

Omani Trends 34 Shop of the Week

Fancy World 35 Beauty

Tried & Tested 36 Henna Hands

18 Cars & Outdoors 38 Destination

Jaylah Village 40 My Hood Seeb 42 Outdoors

Midnight Cricket 44 Y-Fi

Great Gaming 46 Car of the Week

Range Rover

44 NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

ADDICTED TO THE WHITE STUFF THE JOY OF YOGA MUSICAL EVENTS BEAUTIFUL BLING

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YOUR

News

Gallery

INTERVIEW

OMAN

MOTORING

MARKETEER

Naji Zeitouni, Marketing and Product Planning Manager for Volkswagen Oman Words: Penny Fray Photo: Jerzy Wierzbicki

Please share your career with us in 60 seconds or less: I was born and brought up in Dubai, so I’ve lived in the GCC all my life. I started my career in marketing and advertising, dealing with media buying and planning, before moving on to client servicing and advertising. I then spent three years in real estate. I was working with Volkswagen on a roadshow before landing this opportunity in Oman.

Has your past experience of working directly with the public been a help or hindrance?

It’s an advantage but it’s also a burden because you know what can be done and there are obvious challenges. It’s a little bit more laid back here in Oman compared to Dubai.

The car market seems to have slowed down in some parts of Europe but speeded up here. Is that true?

The automobile market has been affected in some countries influenced by the Arab Spring but it’s different in the GCC. Competition is fairly high but technology has contributed a lot to the business in terms of choice and price structure.

You’re still young at 32, but what has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Communicating with people through social media has been exciting. It’s about being proactive rather than waiting for people to see your material and then getting back to you. We want people to feel a product and experience it. Also, engaging on sites like Twitter and Facebook means that you get useful feedback. You find out people’s likes and dislikes in order to cater to their needs.

Outside work, what are your passions?

Family is very important to me. Otherwise, I like sport – football in particular. I support Bayern Munich in Germany and Chelsea in the UK. I also enjoy painting. I’m good but I don’t have the time to pursue it as much as I’d like.

What’s your business philosophy?

It’s important to clear grey areas. Things need to be black or white. Clarity and communication is imperative – whether it’s personal or professional. Brand values are also important.

Naji’s Top Tips For Success: 1. Dedication 2. Hard Work 3. Transparency

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JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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The Voice of Oman

Yummy-mummy-to-be Karima Farid returns and this time she’s hitting the shops

correspondence METERS NOT ENOUGH

Winner!

Reply of the Week

Dear Y

Thank you so much for the interesting article in last week’s Y about taxi cabs in Muscat. I completely agree with you: It is a challenge to find a suitable cab, especially for a visibly Western foreigner. Even some knowledge of Arabic language will not help. But please let me point out very clearly that not all drivers act in such a bad manner, I would even say most of them are friendly and helpful. Installing meters in cabs could doubtless help but will not solve all the problems at once. As a European working in tourism, I know only too well that those drivers who try to betray clients will find ways to do so with or without a meter in the cab.

Part of the problem could be solved easily if there was some sort of public transport system in Muscat: public buses to start with and in future a Metro system. After all, Muscat is a fast-growing city and it is simply part of a hustling and bustling metropole to have some kind of advanced transport system.

My advice for relaxed taxi trips: once you have found a nice, friendly driver, take his mobile number and you’ll have your own driver whenever you are in need.

I

f there’s one thing better than buying clothes for yourself, it’s buying clothes for your unborn child. Think mini booties and bunny onesies that make you go ‘awww.’ Baby clothes have the cute factor times ten.

Now I have a horrid confession to make. I usually head for Dubai for my retail therapy. But when it came to baby, I made a point of checking out Muscat first. Here, two Omani baby boutiques never fail me. Both Mennez and Twinkles are in premium locations.

Situated in MSQ, Mennez is in a world of its own. It’s the sort of a high-end baby boutique that could easily change your mind from going elsewhere.

From stylish diaper bags to designer clothes and accessories – I’m already working my way through the wish list.

In Qurum, you’ll find Twinkle.

Owned by a paediatrician, this sparkling store stocks up on beautiful, innovative and practical children’s products – from Blooming Baths to cute shoes and all sorts of educational material. My last purchase there was a diary in which I excitedly write to my unborn child every single day.

I’ll definitely go back again.

Well, it was nice catching up, expect me back in a few weeks.

Next week: NADIM ATTIEH TALKS MANNERS

08

With kind regards, Alice Krotky

A Aruna different perspective Ramachandran, Mutrah Y has rightly pointed to an important topic in its 252 issue (January 9). Technology has made people sit in front of the computer and get whatever they want to get just by going to Google. But this will slowly reduce the power of remembering.

The joy of reading books cannot be described in words. When we read a book we are able to put our self in to a different world that the writer has created for us.

I have been a voracious reader ever since I learned how to read. I have found that reading books is the best medicine to kill boredom. Just reading a good book is not enough. The way you read it is more important.

When you come across a new idea or a different opinion, think upon it deeply.

Don’t just accept it or reject it blindly.

Out of date Dear Y, Recently the Muscat Municipality raided many places where expired products were being used and sold.

It makes one wonder about expiry dates on products. What are the rules for the dates shown on these products?

Does the usage start from the date of packaging or from the date of making them?

What are the norms? Who sets these rules?

It’s a fact that some products like spices, rice etc, are still usable even after the period of expiry.

This topic deserves an in-depth study.

Best wishes, Vijayalakshmi R Shetty

Dr. Mohammed Shafiuddin Nizwa College of Technology

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

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JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US

Debate of the Week We asked: The Oman national football team failed to progress far in the recent 2013 Gulf Cup in Bahrain in a run of poor results. What is going wrong with the team and who is to blame?

SHOG AL MAS Many people will blame the players and the coach and some will blame the Oman Football Association. And from my perspective, they all deserve to be blamed.

The OFA isn’t putting in enough thought and actual plans for the national team and, as seen, they haven’t put in the effort to fix the problem regarding the fact that we are losing most matches in the last five minutes.

The coach should be blamed too. In our national team, we don’t have a player who can put the ball in the goal – the last touch required to score.

Also, in each match in the Gulf Cup, the team’s starting lineup was different than the match before. Players need to play with the same startup line they usually play with, so they can get along better.

Finally, the players must take the blame.

They lack concentration and they don’t know how to keep the ball and pass it right.

At times they shoot the ball spontaneously without thinking.

RAMAKRISHNAN ANAND Losing and winning is part of the game.

But what annoys supporters is the lack of fight. The team should be unified and fight like tigers on the field.

Already there is a rift between star player Fawzi Bashir and coach Paul Le Guen that in some way affects the morale of the team. The OFA should fix more friendly matches with international teams on a regular basis so that we can gauge our standing in the international circuit and the fitness level of players should be assessed honestly so that when the time comes to deliver they can deliver.

Losing Ali al Habsi is also a crucial factor, as he has the charisma to lift the spirits of the Oman team to greater heights. Anyway now we must concentrate on the World Cup qualifiers so that we can achieve a great dream. Come On OMAN! KAWTHAR HOFFMAN Al BALUSHI One of the main problems is continuing to fire coach after coach. Each coach comes with a different focus and goal, and throws out the previous coach’s system.

LETTERS

E-MAILS

SHAFIQ ISLAM No one is to blame. They tried their best.

LOUISE HUNTER I know everyone likes to blame the manager and trainers but, if truth be told, it is the players who need a good shake-up.

They became too lazy and thought they didn’t need to try as hard – but they will still get paid, while the manager gets the boot.

Bad lads – work and try harder for your country.

INDUMTHI ANAND The ability to succeed in international matches is about adapting to the situation and playing accordingly and we can change

I'm a reader

FA C E B O O K

TWITTER

the game in a matter of seconds. Let’s take the example of Robin van Persie, who is dominating the English Premier League with his clinical strikes and keeps Manchester United on top of the league. All the best Red Warriors.

BELINDA WALLINGTON There are some amazing players down on Shatti Beach.

This Week’s Debate: Expatriot workers increased their presence in the private sector by 16 per cent last year, as more Omanis took government jobs. What can be done to make Omanisation in the private sector a success? Tell us on Facebook.

natalia strzelczyk was spotted with a copy of Y Magazine at Riyam Park

THIS IS YOUR PAGE!

Just send us your picture with the free Y magazine or pose with our photographer and we will publish it on this page Send it to: info@y-oman.com

JAN 23 – JAN 29 / ISSUE 254

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NEWS

FIN SHOCK

Investigation launched as rays found dead on beach with fins cut off Words: Kate Ginn Photos: Heather Robertson

A

n investigation has been launched after four rays were found dead on the beach with their fins sliced off in an apparent deliberate

attack.

The discovery has prompted fears the creatures may have been targeted to sell the parts for use in Chinese medicine or as an alternative to shark fin soup.

All four rays, two manta and two eagle, were discovered on Azaiba beach on Saturday by a Y reader, who took some photographs and sent them to us, which we then forwarded to the Environment Society of Oman (ESO).

ESO is taking immediate action to find out what happened to the rays.

“We will send the photographs to the scientists and start an investigation on this matter, four rays are just too much” said Sana Tawileh, of ESO. Rays are common in Oman’s waters and attract many tourists each year, who come to experience swimming with the gentle creatures.

They are poached for their fins and gills for use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a tonic, despite having no

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Gallery

Interview

known benefits. Harvested dried gills can fetch up to $500 (OR192) a kilogram and the market is growing.

TCM practitioners believe the ray’s gills, which allow the fish to filter food from water, have healing properties and can promote blood circulation, help skin disease and infertility and even aid in the treatment of cancer.

Removed fins and body parts can be used as a replacement in shark fin soup.

Dr Lubna al Kharusi, an Omani scientist and director of the Marine Science and Fisheries Centre, said she had not heard of any recent incidents of manta ray poaching.

“It’s illegal to take the whole fish.

They used to do that before but when the ministry (Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries) issued a decree making it illegal, it did not happen.”

Y reader Heather Robertson stumbled upon the bodies of the rays while out walking her dog, Penny, on Azaiba beach near the fishing huts where the boats launch into the water.

“I saw something on the shore, just out of the water. At first I thought it was just a toy,” Robertson told Y. “I couldn’t believe it when I saw what it was. The fins have been cut off. It was a clean slice, as if it had been cut with a sharp knife, and didn’t look like it had been caused by a shark attack or fishing accident.

“Either way, it is sad to see something so beautiful and graceful tossed aside dead on the beach.”

There are presently no international and only a few national laws to protect rays.

Experts estimate that the top five mantafishing countries – Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Peru and China fish at least 3,400 manta rays each year.

Poaching also happens in the Philippines, where the rays are supposed to be legally protected.

“Finning can be done to rays too, it’s a very big global problem but not specific to Oman, the beaches or fishermen” said ESO’s Sana Tawileh.

“This could be an isolated incident. We’ll need to find out.”

Known as the ‘pandas of the seas’ because, as in the case of pandas, scientists haven’t been able to confirm the numbers of them in the wild, the rays’ mild disposition, curiosity and playfulness make them a favourite with divers.

JAN 23 – JAN 29 / ISSUE 254

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to advertise e-mail: advertise@y-oman.com • for digital edition go to: www.y-oman.com

THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS –

ONE WEEK TO MUSCAT FESTIVAL

Words: Kate Ginn

IT’S the time of year again when Muscat braces itself for an invasion of visitors and the city turns into a cultural and artistic entertainment venue at night.

The Muscat Festival is back with a new setting and added events to attract an increased target of more than two million people.

As well as promoting Oman to the outside world, the Festival, which starts next Weds (30), will provide a boost to the economy as small businesses to larger hotels enjoy the benefits.

The main event site has been switched from Qurum National Park to Amerat Public Park in a bid to alleviate traffic congestion. Al Naseem Public Park and Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bawshar will also host festivities.

This year will see the introduction of Muscat Art Week, during which Omani and international artists take part in exhibitions, discussions, workshops and lectures at various venues around Muscat.

Over the line

“The concentration is on culture and heritage, rather than turning it into a commercial event,” said Saif Suba al Rashidi, director general of information and external relations, Muscat Municipality.

“It’s not only an entertainment event, it will also contribute to the national economy with hotels, airlines, and small and medium businesses benefiting.”

Expectations are high that last year’s attendance figures of more than 1.5 million will be beaten.

“We are expecting an increase of more or less 15 to 20 per cent for visitors,” said al Rashidi.

Visitors travel from other Gulf and Middle Eastern states as well as from Europe.

Events planned include an Oman Heritage & Cultural Village, daily laser shows, acrobats and magic shows, spectacular firework displays, folk dancing and singing, and a Food Festival.

Architects of Air, giant inflatable walk-in sculptures, will offer people a unique sensory experience.

Also part of the Festival is the Tour of Oman, a six-stage cycling event over 935km, through some of the country’s rugged scenery, to be held from February 11-16. Global cycling champions including Sir Bradley Wiggins, current Tour de France champion and London Olympics gold medal winner, and fellow Brit, Mark Cavendish, are confirmed entrants.

Royal Oman Police has drawn up a plan to deal with any possible problems, including traffic and security issues.

The Muscat Festival was first held in 1998 and has since emerged as one of the key events in Oman’s annual social calendar. The festival ends on February 28.

www.muscat-festival.com

THERE was a distinctly global feel to the Bank Muscat Asalah Marathon with runners from 36 countries taking part.

More than 300 long-distance enthusiasts took to the streets around the city last weekend for the second year of the event, which included a full marathon, half marathon and 10.5km.

The looping scenic route took them past the beach and through Qurum National Park, starting and finishing in the Palm

Gardens at the InterContinental Muscat.

The youngest runner was aged just ten while the oldest, who flew in from the UK, was 76.

First past the finishing post was Shawn Deleu with a time of 3:01:59 in the male category and Caroline Cahill in the women’s race, clocking 3:37:32.

The event on Friday was jointly organised

by Muscat Road Runners, a multicultural group including many Omanis.

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JAN 23 – JAN 29 / ISSUE 254

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THIS WEEK

MOVIES MOVIES THIS WEEK’S MOVIES For more information and times, go to: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641

Zero Dark Thirty This fact-based thriller about the hunt for Osama Bin Laden has been lauded as a potential multi-Oscar winner for its director Kathryn Bigelow, who made her name with classic action movie Point Break and won Best Picture Oscar for Hurt Locker in 2010.

But she has run into a storm of controversy over scenes in the film that show the CIA waterboarding a captive to extract information about the whereabouts of the 9/11 mastermind. Critics have claimed that these scenes misleadingly suggest that such brutal methods assisted in the hunt for Bin Laden, and that the filmmakers have effectively endorsed torture in the name of America’s war on terrorism.

The controversy aside, no one

The Last Stand

directs gritty action better than Bigelow, and Zero Dark Thirty lives up to her usual standard of high tension and teeth-grinding suspense.

For a change the central role goes to a woman, the remarkable Jessica Chastain, who plays Maya, the CIA targeter who pursues Bin Laden with relentless determination despite many dead ends over the decade after 9/11. By the end she is hardened and ruthless in pursuit of her goal, making it hard work for the audience to root for her.

Even though know we how it ends, the climax is still incredibly tense, with Bigelow’s expert use of the hand-held camera giving us an intimate ground-level view of the Navy SEAL team’s termination of America’s No 1 Enemy.

At 65, Arnold Schwarzenegger is old enough to be collecting his pension never mind taking on the baddest Mexican drug dealer and his gang of ruthless thugs. He takes the lead role for the first time in a decade and has plumbed for an old style actioner. He plays an LA cop who moves to nowheresville on the

Just when you think surely Steven Spielberg can’t pull it off again with another epic, along comes ‘Lincoln’ to prove you wrong. Daniel Day Lewis has a face made to play the 16th President of the United States and here performs another miracle of transformation. Spielberg shows us the weight of historical events on the shoulders of this lawyer turned politician who has to end a civil war and slavery.

COMING UP NEXT WEEK Hitchcock

Broken City

Darling Companion Woman saves dog. Husband loses dog in Rocky Mountains. Cue search for dog and quest to save relationship. Ignored by selfabsorbed husband Joseph (Kevin Kline), Beth (Diane Keaton) lavishes attention on the stray animal she calls Freeway. When hubby loses the mutt, the pair face a new crisis. Perhaps the dog had the right idea.

A Haunted House Once upon a time there was Scream, then came Scary Movie, and now Marlon Wayans attempts a crude spoof of the Paranormal Activity films. It’s gross, foul-mouthed and dirty with a few laughs.

Y’s TOP TWO ON THE ROAD 1

Jack Kerouac’s rambling 1957 tale of outsiders on a road trip across America is said to be unfilmable. Some viewers say this film proves the point by missing the essence of the ‘Beat’ spirit, but others enjoyed this adaptation that captures the spirit of what it means to be young and searching for a way to be your true self.

PREVIEW

LINCOLN

Mexican border for a quieter life, but when the bad guys come to town you know it’s a job for the Terminator. A bit creaky.

2 DAYS IN NEW YORK

French star Julie Delphie also directs in this smart sequel to the 2007 crosscultural comedy ‘Two Days in Paris’.

Neurotic photographer Marion lives with talk radio host Chris Rock. Then her French father, sister and Marion’s outrageous ex-boyfriend turn up out of the blue and Franco-American sparks fly. Breezy, delightful comedy.

2

Warm Bodies JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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Girls On

the green THE SOUND OF SPIRIT

Sunday 27

The Royal Opera House is hosting a celebration of spirituality through music with a unique event featuring singers and musicians from four Islamic nations. The Amir Abdul Mageed Orchestra will accompany top international soloists including Abdelsalam Al Hasani of Morocco and Abdul Halim Mashhur of Egypt. The featured artists will perform in contemporary and traditional styles across a range of musical genres to reflect the rich variety of the world of Islam. This one-off event will take place at 7.30pm on January 27.

If you don’t know your bogey from your backside, or even if you do but want to improve your backspin and stay out of the bunker, head down to Almouj Golf at The Wave on Tuesday. ‘Learn and Play with the WGO’ is open to members and non-members of the Women’s Guild Oman and is all about having fun while learning to play. It’s just RO2 for members and RO3 for guests, and you get a free beverage too.

Tickets will be on sale at the Wednesday Coffee morning at the InterContinental Muscat Hotel.

SHRED IT

THIS

WEEK

It’s January and after looking in the mirror, you maybe looking for a new year diet. There are a pile of new titles promising to shed those kilos – and Dr Ian K Smith’s Shred is creating a certain buzz. His plan of four meals with less then 300 calories or a meal replacement and three snacks each with 100 calories may not be revolutionary but it just might work.

What to do.

What to see.

What to hear.

JANUARY 23-29

JANUARY

31

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES If each of us have got a book in us, as the saying goes, then surely it must be that every child has got at least one poem. In that spirit the Dar Al Atta’a Let’s Read Committee has launched its seventh children’s writing competition under the theme of ‘My Dream’.

The poem may be written in rhyming or free verse, and can be funny, sad, thoughtful, scary or uplifting. They will be judged on their originality, use of language, the theme and the impact on the reader. Competition age groups are from 4-8 years, 9-13 years and 14-18 years and the winning entries will be awarded trophies, cool prizes and get to see their work in print. Send entries to: letsreadoman@gmail.com or post them to Dar Al Atta’a. The last day for entries is March 13. Meanwhile Dar Al Atta’a’s book sale will be at the Al Qurum complex on January 31. For more information call 24692996 or visit www.daralatta.org

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JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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Tuesday

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SATURDAY

CALLING CAT LOVERS For all you feline fans who feel a pang of pity every time you see a stray kitten looking underfed on a street corner, here is a chance to do something about it. Cats In Qatar veterinary surgery on Omar Street, Bin Mahmoud Area, is holding an open day on Saturday from 10am to 4pm. There will also be second-hand books available and a bake sale. No adoptions on the day except by prior arrangement. For more information call 3393 7645 or email info@catsinqatar.com.

Everything must go

The time for spring cleaning is just round the corner and there’s no better way to clear out those neglected items gathering dust since you unwrapped them the Christmas before last than a good old car boot sale.

The British School Muscat is holding the event on January 31 with entrance at 500 baisas and tables RO10. Contact Sue on 98226174 for details.

Three bands playing for charity and fish and chips thrown in – that’s the Winter Warmer Music Bash at the Royal Flight Club Gardens on January 24 from 7.30pm. The line-up includes Seeb’s hardest-working rock’n’roll outfit 123 Orion, as well as Noisy Neighbours and The Celtic Balladeers. Donation is RO10

including four beverages, so a good night is close to guaranteed.

The good cause is Awladna for Road Safety for Kids, a charity whose mission is to spread awareness of traffic hazards and to reduce the risks to children from playing close to the road.

For more information call Tess on 99525486.

Puppet magic from Austria January

Any child who is lucky enough to have read the story of Peter’s epic battle with the wolf, or better, heard Prokofiev’s magnificent 1936 score to the Russian folk tale, will forever be changed.

Next week, Austria’s Salzburg Marionette Theatre presents its enchanting and visually stunning puppetry adaptation of ‘Peter and the Wolf ’ at the Royal Opera House. Performances are at 7.30pm with a matinee at 11.25am on January 31.

This must-see children’s show is part of a Family Night of performances including talented Omani and overseas singers. For more information go to www.rohmuscat.org.om

WHEN I’M 64 The Sultanate’s Indian population will be celebrating India’s 64th Republic Day on January 26, with events being held by the NRI community in Muscat and elsewhere in Oman. There will be a flag-hoisting ceremony on Saturday at 9:30am at the Indian Embassy premises in Al Khuwair for invited guests.

Last chance to register Calling all speed fiends and creative cart makers - don’t forget to register for Red Bull’s Soapbox Race, before January 28 at www.redbullmea.com. The event takes place on March 28 in Muscat.

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26 January

Chase those blues away

January

24

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NEWS

Gallery

Interview

Like fish iN

a barrel

Keeping alive an ancient art Words: JOE GILL Photo: Jerzy Wierzbicki

W

hen the tide goes out at Shannah Harbour – some 460km from Muscat – a man takes the opportunity to spear some fish trapped in pools of seawater using a technique that’s been around for thousands of years. Nowadays spear guns make the task easier. Spear fishing is popular with scuba divers in countries such as South Africa, Australia and the US. In Oman spear guns are officially banned, mainly because the weapons are considered too dangerous.

However this does not stop some people from smuggling in the banned equipment to take advantage of the plentiful fish off Oman’s fantastic coast.

The sweet spot for coastal fishing lies between Al Khaluf and Salalah. Major catch in these warm waters include blue fish, trevally, shark, black bream, rays, grouper and spotted grunter. Big game fishing can reel in tuna, barracuda, marlin and sailfish.

There are a number of tour operators who offer fishing trips from Muscat and Musandam with the chance to snorkel and scuba dive as well as try to catch your supper. You can have a go at traditional tuna fishing, beach casting, bottom fishing, or old-fashioned hand-line fishing as practiced by Omani fisherman down the generations.

For more information visit www.gulfleisure.com or www.hormuzlinetours.com

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f

ashion forward Team Y set up camp at Muscat Fashion Week to bring you the hottest trends, coolest images and the best backstage gossip from the 2013 show

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man is an undiscovered fashion gem. There is no better place for style lovers in the world than right here, right now – something audiences from around the globe discovered last week at Muscat Fashion Week (MFW).

While European couture houses went back to basics for spring/summer 2013 with neutral colours and simple silhouettes, the antidote to all that plainness came with the more is more opulence of Arab designers.

Gilt gowns, lavish brocade, sequins and flashes of bright colours dominated the runways of Riyam Park on Muttrah Seafront.

In a surprisingly modest game of peek-a-boo, C’est Moi! offered sequined meshes over fluid frocks, while home grown designers Endemage experimented with intricate lace on softly draped silk. In the same collection, Kimonos met reconstructed abayas to create layers that were both comfortable and unique. This nomadic chic influence was also seen at Dibaj, where long, feminine dresses were toughened up with medieval looking cloaks and tribal inspired jewellery. A more eclectic take on the whole boho traveller theme was seen from Zhor Rais, where romantic brocade was layered with chiffon and rope to stunning effect. Kaftans were everywhere as were adaptations of the classic abaya, with digital prints, leather and beading lending a chic update to the black ensemble.

In direct contrast to all the soft silhouettes that seemed to dominate the catwalk, came the drama and sharp tailoring of Ahmed Talfit. His structured black dresses with statement shoulders and neck ruffles had all the theatre of Alexander McQueen matched with the wearability of Roland Mouret. A strong, futuristic aesthetic blended with stomping models and creepy soundtracks resulted in a truly memorable show finale to MFW. Words: Penny Fray

3

TOP TRENDS

STATEMENT SHOULDERS From sharp and structured to voluminous and embellished, the statement shoulder was a key trend at MFW.

JEWEL BRIGHTS From head to heel red at Tatyana Aceeva to Toujoun’s green thumb and C’est Moi’s bright crush – bold shades packed a punch at Riyam Park.

EMBELLISHMENTS Bling is obviously still in this year. A wealth of beads, sequins and embroidery helped embellish the fashion story at MFW. JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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the views

shine time for us to

Hilary Alexander,

Fashion doyenne

As a fashion hub in the region, Oman is very well placed to take that role. It’s a charming, beautiful country as well

It’s all over for Muscat Fashion Week so what does the future hold?

Words by Kate Ginn

T Malik al Hinai

One of the Muscat Fashion Show organisers

It’s gone very well. Next year will be even bigger and better. In the future, we want designers asking to come to Muscat.

Afaf al Farsi

Designer Dibaj

My heart was racing. I thought I was going to faint before my designs went on. Now it’s over, I feel so happy.

Renae Ellis Model

The whole experience was amazing. It’s been really chilled, relaxed and cool.

Gharniqa al Khalasy

Student and voluntary helper at Muscat Fashion Week

This is one of the most exciting things I’ve done. To be around the designers and models is amazing.

020

he curtain has come down on Muscat Fashion Week, the ticker tape from the finale has been swept up and the catwalk stage all packed away. Now it’s time for reflection and a look at whether the event has taken a step closer towards its wish of becoming the heart of the region’s haute couture scene.

To do that, it first has to take on its city neighbour, Dubai, which already has its own well-established Fashion Week. The bi-annual event, however, was cancelled last year, leaving the door open for Muscat to take over and emerge from the shadows, although organisers insist Dubai will have a Fashion Week this year.

According to Hilary Alexander, a UKbased fashion editor who flew from London to be at Muscat, the next big thing in the Middle East could be Oman.

“It’s not about competing with Milan, London or Paris. You can’t compare them and shouldn’t even try,” she said.

“But when it comes to being the region’s fashion hub, I think Muscat is very well placed.

“Oman is developing its fashion industry and it’s also a beautiful country.

Muscat has a lot to offer – it’s sophisticated and charming.”

Alexander knows her Moschino from her Matalan, having passed judgment on dozens of fashion shows over the years, so her stamp of approval is as prized as the latest Prada.

All of the designers flying the flag for Oman impressed her discerning eye.

Malik al Hinai, one of MFW’s organisers, said: “We can gauge the success of the show from the response and it’s been fantastic.

“It’s going to take us five years or so to be really established. At the moment, we are approaching the designers to come to the show. I want to get the point where they are coming to us asking to take part.”

Also encouraging was the appearance of the international media at last week’s event, along with buyers from several major stores including Harvey Nichols and Browns.

Oman-based Dibaj, which combines contemporary with clever cultural touches, is said to be already attracting interest from further afield.

“Our spring/summer 2013 collection that was recently showcased at Muscat Fashion Week has received great reviews,” said Afaf al Farsi, Dibaj creative director and co-founder.

“The support and encouragement from family, friends, clients, buyers, press and fashion lovers has been both humbling and overwhelming and makes us eager to start thinking about what we can do better next time. Our focus is now centered on how we can take Dibaj across international waters with key retailers to further expand the brand’s reach.”

Lubna al Zakwani, the creative force behind emerging Omani label Endemage, said the exposure from showcasing designs at Muscat Fashion Week was invaluable.

“With Dubai it feels like we have always been on the side. We have showed everyone with Muscat Fashion Week that it’s time for us to shine.”

HH Dr Rawya bint Soud al Busaidy, Under Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, who went to the show on the second day, said: “It (MFW) is very good for Oman. I look forward to next year being even better.”

There is, clearly, some way to go before Muscat Fashion Week can lay claim to having achieved its aim of becoming the fashion hub of the Gulf states.

It is not unreasonable, however, to believe that one day it will.

MFW is still in its infancy, having just finished its third year, so like a toddler it is still finding its feet and learning to walk tall among the fashion elite. The signs are encouraging that it can grow up to be more than a just a small sideline on the fashion show map.

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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back

stage

Kate Ginn talks to the people who made it all happen behind the scenes

A

s the models strut down the catwalk looking composed as can be, it’s a different story backstage away from the eyes of the audience.

Behind the scenes the atmosphere is considerably more fraught.

In a hive of activity models are putting on outfits, taking off outfits, grabbing a break when and where they can and texting on their mobile phones, as stylists flit around them like flies touching up hair and make-up.

Elsewhere, the designers are anxiously fussing over their creations about to be seen by the public for the first time.

The models, of course, have seen it all before, nonchalantly watching the scene around them as they stand on one foot waiting for a shoe fitting, or hardly breaking a stride as they head towards the stage on their vertiginous heels while being pursued by a photographer.

“This is quite quiet, it was worse last night,” says Khadija al Hini, one of the Omani hair stylists working backstage. “People were running around like headless chickens, it was crazy.”

Al Hini, 27, is a veteran of the Muscat Fashion Week, having cut her teeth last year. She seems to be a little oasis of calm in the mayhem around her.

“It’s very exciting and I’m just proud to be here,” she says.

Her daytime job is accounts collections – she does hair in her free time – but her dream is to fly around the world styling hair at the top fashion shows.

Next to her, Danish lead hair stylist Lasse is sculpting a model’s hair. “The look is influenced by the 90s, very sharp and elegant, with the inspiration of Princess Leia [from Star Wars],” he says.

Whatever that means, it looks good.

A team from the Sharaz beauty salon and spa in Madinat Qaboos has also been drafted in, working on the hair and nail stations.

Students from colleges in Oman are working as voluntary hosts looking after the designers, who each have their own backstage tent, while fitting and ushering the towering models to the floor.

“Fashion is my hobby and I can’t believe I’m here,” says an excited Gharniqa al Khalasy, who is studying IT at Majan College in Muscat.

Near the dressing area, another student, Zuwie, is scurrying around with a clothes rail. “Yesterday was very stressful but today is much smoother,” she says. She is an accountancy student in the real world.

It’s another world backstage, far removed from the gloss of the catwalk and one the audience outside is blissfully unaware of.

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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editor’s picks

Dibaj

his view

Tudor queens hit the desert as local design house Dibaj offered a sumptuous feast of flowing frocks, rich velvets and dramatic cloaks. The look was distinctly 16th century meets nomadic traveller with tribal embroidery and maxi dresses featuring metallic beading. I particularly loved the statement gold pendants with ancient Omani influences – very boho luxe.

A firm favourite in Muscat Fashion Week, sisters Afaf and Aida al Farsi have finally hit the international radar with their East meets West sophistication.

FISH IN SPACE

Joe Gill attends his first fashion show and tries to find his inner fashionista

I am a man at the opening night of the Muscat Fashion Week. The setting is beautiful, the cars expensive – not ours – and people surprisingly nice.

Backstage the models are in make-up and the assistants are larking around. A man with a north European accent and designer glasses is giving orders to the girls. While our photographer makes nice with the models, I don’t quite know where to put myself. The models are young and beautiful. Do they speak to mortals?

I see Malik al Hinai, one of MFW’s organisers, and introduce myself. He politely informs me that tonight is a women-only night, something my editor failed to mention. “You go over there,” he says, pointing behind the tape. I do as I am told and head under

022

ATalfit hmed Ahmed Talfit’s strong, sexy silhouettes blew me away. I loved both the elegance and drama of this 25-year-old Tunisian’s sharply tailored pieces. Bold, black, body con dresses with statement shoulders, exaggerated necklines and peplum features made an impact. The creepy music hinted at a sort of sinister strength, while the pencil dresses with leather capped sleeves screamed ‘corporate ball breaker’.

Pushing the boundaries of modern mode, the cool young designer has already won oodles of industry plaudits from fashion tomes and supermodels alike. No wonder Talfit’s being hailed the McQueen of the Middle East – his futuristic designs are absolutely fabulous. This is definitely a name to watch. the bandstand where drinks are being served - but I make a hasty retreat because I am the only man in a sea of abayas.

Still, I needn’t have worried. The Omani ladies who have come for the show look fabulous, and are very welcoming. They all know each other.

I say hello to people who are obviously veterans here. They smile at me – gosh, fashion people are nicer than I expected.

The photographers fight for the best spot at the end of the catwalk. One looks derisively at my pretend camera. I find a spot to sit at the back just as the show begins. As Omani designer Nawal Al Hooti’s outfits strut onto the catwalk, all kinds of thoughts pop into my head. How do models maintain their inscrutable expression? Can they please crack a smile? Do fashion people and their esteemed guests have bladders of iron?

It’s cold up at the back. I wish I’d worn sleeves instead of a T-shirt (editor’s instructions). I’m starving. Oh no, I’ve got heartburn. This must be what it feels like to be a model…

Oh yes, the outfits. Wow! And that’s just the women in the audience, where the other, unofficial, fashion contest is fierce and the looks, deadly. Those models don’t stand a chance.

Back home I consider myself almost

ZohrRais I adored the medieval regality of Zohr Rais’ collection, which featured gordeous velvet gowns, elaborate beading and statement belts. The gold, brocade and meshed lace spoke of a return to extravagance and extroversion.

My stand out outfit, however, was an amazing gold jacket with embroidered flowers over a spotty chiffon top and rope belt – simply stunning.

This innately Moroccan collection highlights the craftsmanship and exoticism of the country. metrosexual – as in, I often advise my wife what to wear, and she listens. There were some outfits here that definitely made me gasp in awe.

The show ends and we mingle on the catwalk. Nawal Al Hooti is being interviewed by some Polish fashion journos and looks like she would rather be somewhere else. It must be tough when everyone wants a piece of you.

Before we leave we head back stage and eat some model food – after all it’s wasted on them.

I enjoyed tonight more than I expected. I saw some amazing outfits, I mixed among the fashion cognoscenti and Omani high society and nobody – apart from Malik al Hinai – spotted that I was as far from my natural habitat as a fish in space.

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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1/22/13 10:20 AM

RIGHT Finding the

WORDS A mother and her struggles to get her dyslexic sons educated in Oman

D

r Kawthar Hameed Abdullah al Balushi is an educational psychologist and a special education specialist with over 25 years experience working with children and teenagers with special needs. She is also a mother with two sons, both of whom are dyslexic. The boys had a good schooling in America. But when Dr al Balushi completed her Masters degree and the family came back to Oman, it was a different story. Here, she tells of the challenges she faced to ensure her sons had a good education.

Dyslexic children in Oman seem to be

at a real disadvantage and the parents

just do not know where to turn.

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability, and children with this disability have difficulties in reading, spelling and often in concentration. In my experience, some teachers in mainstream schools do not have the knowledge to deal with dyslexic children, especially those who have moderate to severe dyslexia. Usually, children who are mildly dyslexic can cope in the mainstream school system in Oman. However, those with more severe dyslexia have real learning challenges in mainstream education.

It takes a specialist in dyslexia or special education to deal with all the needs of dyslexic children. Children with dyslexia are multi-sensory learners – meaning they need to touch, see and hear the lessons in order to grasp the entire concept. In my opinion, this approach is not available in mainstream schools in Oman most of the time.

From what I have seen, through experiences with my own sons, most schools in Muscat do not have any support system set up for children with LD (learning disabilities) within the school. The child is thrown into the normal classes without any support. In most western countries, LD students are pulled out of their regular classes for support lessons and help for any difficulty they may be facing. However, in most Middle Eastern

024

countries, these services are not usually available; if they are it’s usually at the big international schools, which are not affordable to the average family.

In my case, both my sons were teased and ridiculed by their peers in mainstream schools and also had problems with their teachers — the very ones who are supposed to be a help and support to the child. This can lead to the child suffering from psychological problems because of the bullying.

Students with dyslexia or other learning difficulties cannot study in special schools in Oman – rehabilitation centres – unless the child’s disability is very severe. This is because rehabilitation centres are more for mentally challenged children and those with moderate to severe disabilities other than learning disabilities.

The Ministry of Education has tried and has done an excellent job in trying to implement programmes for children with learning disabilities in mainstream schools. But at the end of the day, the Ministry is not there to make sure the schools are actually doing this and treating the children properly.

I have two children with dyslexia, one of whom is now 20 and the other has just turned 13.

When my eldest son Usamah was being educated in the United States through kindergarten and the first grade, we didn’t face any difficulty with his dyslexia at school. I knew he had dyslexia since I was a special education educator and took him to an educational psychologist in St. Louis, where we were living at the time, to confirm my diagnosis. An IEP (Individual Educational Plan) was created for him and implemented in the school he was attending and everything went according to plan.

However, when we returned to Oman, everything was different and this is when our nightmare began.

We started by enrolling him in one school that I had worked in before I had left for the US to complete my studies; we had figured that, since I know most of the teachers, they would see that Usamah got the care that he needed.

We were wrong.

We had tried to explain to the administration what dyslexia was. They had no idea. He was labelled as being mentally challenged, and we were asked to remove him from the school after only one month.

Back then, 13 years ago, people in Oman just didn’t know what dyslexia was and did not have

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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S

Some of the symptoms of dyslexia are: • Delayed learning to read • Reading slowly or hesitantly • Mixing words (“saw” for “was” for example) • Confusion between letters or numbers •Repeatedly getting stuck on the same word ina reading passage

would work with him. Most of the teachers had a general understanding of dyslexia and we thought he would be able to excel in this school.

Everything was okay for a few months then he started getting stomach aches when it was time for school. He would be perfectly fine during the weekends but sick during the weekdays. Upon investigation, I found out that the children in his class were bullying him.

I put him back in the Creative Center. At the beginning of this year (grade seven), I moved him again after a lot of discussion. He was very excited to start in his new school. He had attended their summer session and was happy.

Again, he was happy for a few months and then the stomach problems started again.

His stomach problems turned into vomiting problems, which ended up with him vomiting blood. He ended up in the emergency room three times at Muscat Private Hospital. On the last visit, we saw a doctor, who determined he was having psychological issues because of the treatment he was enduring at school. He asked me if putting my son in a normal school setting was worth all the physical and emotional problems he was having.

Absolutely not.

I have since enrolled him in Clonlara School in the US, a correspondence school that has programs for children with learning disabilities.

We were able to add Arabic and Islamic studies to the curriculum, which meet our needs. I also have certified teachers following him in his studies. He is more relaxed and more able to focus on work.

Sometimes we need to look at options for our children. There are times when mainstream education can fit their needs. However, there are other times when it cannot and, in these situations, we need to find other options that can benefit and meet their individual needs.

In the end you are looking for results and what is best for your child.

• Difficulty in understanding what they have read • Omission or addition to words in a reading passage

Yousef with his teacher at the Creative Centre, which was set up by Dr al Balushi (pictured left) to teach children and adults with learning difficulties

• Poor standard of reading in comparison with oral ability • Slowness in learning to spell • Incorrectly formed or written letters • Difficulty in keeping writing on the lines • Difficulty in recalling how to spell common sight words • Difficulty in copying from a book or black/ white board

the facts

T

the skills to work with him.

We moved him to another school but the problems continued. He had only been there for a few days when he came home crying and told me a teacher had hit him. I called the school and talked with the principal. He assured me that this would not happen again, only to have it happen a week or so later with a smack across the face for writing the number four backwards.

Needless to say, we removed Usamah from the school and started home schooling him through an accredited home school programme.

This went on until he was in grade six or seven, when he expressed a desire to go back to normal school. We looked into two good schools but both were too expensive for our budget.

We finally decided on an Omani school that claimed they could meet his needs.

Within a few months of him attending the school they started beating him for bad handwriting and for writing words and numbers backwards. We took him out of the school and home schooled him through high school.

He graduated with good grades through an online accredited American programme.

He is now working in a large well-known company in Oman, and is getting ready to get married. He is a success but it was because of my perseverance.

I had similar problems with my younger son Yousef. He started in an Omani school in Muscat. The teachers just didn’t know how to work with him. Many times I would go to the school and I would find that he wasn’t even in the classroom, and the teacher would have no idea where he was. He was usually hiding in the bathroom or in the playhouse. This happened two or three times before I removed him from the school. We tried another Omani school but removed him due to similar problems.

I left him out of school for the rest of that year.

The next year I put him in the Philippine School Muscat. They were aware of his dyslexia and were willing to try to work with him. He stayed there almost a full year.

In the meantime, my husband and I had started the Creative Center for Rehabilitation, which offers education services and therapy for children and young adults with disabilities.

The centre is funded through sponsorship, either private or through the Ministry of Social Development, and by parents who are able to pay regular fees.

From the 90 students we have enrolled in the centre, more than half

are sponsored from outside sources, or need sponsorship.

I had decided to have a section for severely dyslexic children because of my personal experience with my children.

My son Yousef attended the Creative Center from first grade up to the fourth grade. In the fourth grade, the teachers said Yousef was highly advanced in comparison with the other children in his class and we should try to mainstream him. We found one school that we thought

• Poor standard of written work compared to oral ability • Confuses right and left • Generally forgetful or disorganised If you feel your child has six or more of these listed symptoms, the best option would be to get a dyslexic assessment.

Dr al Balushi can be contacted regarding any difficulty your child may be facing on 95303700 or email: dr.kawtharh@gmail.com

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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1/22/13 10:08 AM

food and drink

Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

Few things in life bring the sort of pure, unadulterated pleasure associated with chocolate. Submerge yourself in the gourmet glee of artisan chocolate, where each bar boasts a high cocoa content, a burst of unique flavour and the most wonderfully decadent wrapping.

More than 95% of the world’s supply is bulk cocoa, which makes perfectly good chocolate. The remaining 5% is fine cocoa, where every bean has a unique story to tell based on its location, soil, sun and tropical downpours.

Muscat has several chocolatiers including Godiva at the SABCO Mall, Le Palais de Chocolate at the Opera Galleria and Salma’s Chocolates in Al Azaiba.

Did You Know?

You can now have your Instagram and eat it. Thanks to those clever people at Cocoagraph.com, you can create edible versions of your photographs on posh chocolate.

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www.radiomerge.fm

It’s the dawn of a new musical era right here in Oman.

Merge 104.8 is a celebration of cultures and a true reflection of diversity. Providing you with the best R’n’B, House, Rock, Lounge, 90s, and Pop music from around the world. Served with fresh local flavour.

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food and drink

Reviews

MORE CAFÉ Smart décor and staff who know their food leaves Kate Ginn wanting more

Info Box

L

ocating itself in the rarefied surroundings of the Opera Galleria, where expectations are high, could either be seen as a high-risk strategy and gamble, or the move of an assured business with an established reputation and the confidence to expect similar success in a My dutch potato salad, with apple, gherkins and new country. beef bacon, was a more than adequate substitution.

In the case of More Café, it’s the latter.

The large menu has a varied and eclectic choice, A long-time favourite institution of the discerning from Italian pasta to Asian-influenced dishes, such gourmet crowd in Dubai, where it first opened more as Indian curries, and the obligatory burgers. than 10 years ago, Oman is its first foray out of the Torn between the Moroccan chicken tagine and UAE, and an enthusiastic welcome was surely the Indonesian beef rendag, I went with the always to be expected. preferred choice of the knowledgeable Award-winning café or not – it has waitress and plumped for the won Dubai’s Best Café several times second dish.

– it still has to deliver, and Oman’s Tender braised beef with gastronomes are no less a tough coconut and lemongrass, audience than the one across served with rice steamed in a the border. banana leaf, was heaven on a It was six weeks after its plate, matched by the More official opening when I visited homemade salmon pie and and, after its transplant from side salad swiftly dispatched Dubai, it seems to have already by my boss. been accepted by its new clientele.

A table next to us was tucking With its deep maroon décor, into the afternoon tea, with occasional stark black and white photos sandwiches, scones and bite-sized and exposed air vents on the ceiling, reminiscent cakes served on a tiered stand, which had of a New York loft, it certainly seemed at been served without a quibble even though home in the Opera Galleria, Royal Opera it wasn’t strictly on the evening menu.

VERDICT: House Muscat’s new flagship Space had been reserved for dessert shopping destination. but it wasn’t going to be filled, not 10 Despite being over three-quarters with the dark chocolate fondant I Wonderful décor, surroundings and full, there was a genteel murmur had my eye on or indeed anything food, along with of chatter, as befitting its elegant else from the menu. As it’s still early knowledgeable staff, surroundings, and the tables are spaced days in More’s Oman existence and add up to a firstclass experience so far apart, there’s no sense of being teething problems need to be sorted, crowded in by other diners. the kitchen was shut, explained the There was a brief battle with my fellow bon assistant manager. Disappointing. To be fair viveur over who could have the tomato soup with we were late in arriving, so it was close to the time mozzarella, accompanied by bread, for starter. My of ringing the bell for last orders anyway. Instead, colleague, being the boss, won. I was sorry to miss we are offered a choice from the amazing cake out. It was, she said, the best tomato soup she’d selection in the patisserie, which more than makes ever tasted in her life and – from the one spoonful up for it. The carrot cake was particularly good, she begrudgingly allowed me to taste – I agree. said the assistant manager, and it would have been Wonderfully fruity with overtones of herbs and terribly impolite to refuse. soft melted cheese, I could have happily eaten it for I like to think of myself as a carrot cake starter, main and pudding. connoisseur, having sampled many around the

Contact number: 220 22555 Address: Opera Galleria, Shatti al Qurum, Muscat.

Opening hours: 8am-Midnight Friday Brunch 11am-4pm Average price: (for two people) RO26 Email: opera@morecafeoman.com

world, and this beauty from More sashayed its orange-flecked light sponge into my top five with ease. Moist, weightless sponge, a perfect union of flavours and the softest, most divine icing. A cheesecake wasn’t so impressive.

If you’re dining alone, More has a bookshelf with a selection of tomes which can be borrowed to keep you company. Another lovely touch is how the restaurant allows its walls to showcase local artists, with customers able to buy their efforts if one takes the fancy.

If the Opera Galleria is too far way, don’t despair.

Another branch of More Café will be opening at The Wave complex this year.

Excuse the pun, but there’s no doubt that your dining experience will keep you coming back for More.

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Photographed by: Jerzy Wierzbicki

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Trend

New Restaurant

GALLERY

Beauty and the Beast Horse and camel fair heritage show

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he second Horse, Camel and Heritage Fair was held at the Oman International Exhibition Centre from January 14 to 16, with horse and camel beauty pageants and dance shows performed by the Royal Cavalry and Royal Camel Corps. Visitors also had a chance to learn how to ride the animals and see a display of Omani arts.

Bedouin craftswomen

Camel and rider

Omani painter Abdul Majid Karooh

Camel rider with a child

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

Health

Beauty

fashion

Clutch by Jizdaani

COLOUR POP

The runways of Muscat Fashion Week were awash with small, statement bags in strong colours, featuring Middle Eastern embellishments.

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BAGS OF STYLE

An elegant shape – tick; a bright coral colour – tick; chic designer label – tick.

Chloe’s tote RO625 from Harvey Nichols has it all.

This faux snakeskin bag from Michael Kors gives a little va-vavoom to a simple black

From cute clutches to totally amazing totes, Penny Fray explores the most talked about bag trends for 2013

Editor’s Pick This bijou bag from Next has it all – tassles and a tribal print in this season’s hottest colours. RO14

T

he iconic handbag has never gone out of style.

From Chanel’s chic 2.55 to Grace Kelly carrying her namesake Hermes tote, women will always desire beautiful bags. Arm candy with obvious logos may be on the wane but our love of the classic tote lives on in 2013. Discrete yet desirable, this year’s designer pieces are more about whispering wealth with fine leather and functional designs than following in the ‘fash’ pack’s flashier footsteps.

That’s why I love the understated luxe of Cartier’s leather collection. If you want something a little more outré, go supersized and snakeskin with Michael Kors; alternatively consider Alexander Wang’s studded pieces.

Don’t worry if you’re on the petite side. Cute clutches and mini bags are the perfect antidote to back-breaking carryalls. Come spring, the Omani high street will be flooded with tiny treats in tribal prints and beach-popping shades such as coral and turquoise. Big or small, bright or monochrome – this is the year of the bag..

This clutch from Accessorize packs a small but perfectly formed punch of colour. RO21

When it comes to luxury leather goods head to Khimji’s Watches, where you’ll find elegant arm candy from Cartier. Price on request.

It may not have a designer label but this Mango bowling bag looks far more expensive than its RO22 price tag would suggest.

The French excel at creating bags that never seem to date. If you can’t afford a designer classic, head online to laredoute.com.

This tote is a steal at RO24

PICKING THE PERFECT BAG: Penny’s top tips to investment bag buying 1 The perfect arm piece should be both polished and practical yet versatile enough to wear either night or day. That’s why I love Chanel’s 2.55 in either black or nude. 2 Bright bags add life to a toned down or casual outfit. 3 Get a bag that matches your size. I love wee bags but they look out of proportion with my 5’9” frame. 4 Heavy metal hardware like studs and spikes will give a classic shape a cooler vibe.

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BACK TO

THE FUTURE

Flawless faces, backcombed eyebrows and sci-fi hair – Penny Fray discovers the top beauty trends from Muscat Fashion Week.

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Health

M

uscat Fashion Week proved to be a hotbed of creative talent. And it was no different backstage where amazing teams of artists and hair stylists set the beauty agenda for Oman this season.

While most of Europe’s famous fashion houses focused on statement eyes with coloured liner, jewelled

lids and extra long lashes, Oman went surprisingly minimal with neutral features and sculpted skin.

“The Middle East is known for its heavy eyes and statement brows,” says Vimi Joshi, the show’s key make-up artist. “So, I was really surprised when all the designers asked for the nude look.”

Sculpted faces were given a dewy finish for luminous skin that jumped off the catwalk.

“We used different foundations to create a 3D effect,” explains Vimji, M.A.C’s senior artist for the Middle East and India. “We wanted to create texture and luxuriously buttery skin that was hyper perfected but still had depth and dimension on print.”

Adding cream and caramel hues to the eyes, the experts recreated the look of yesteryear’s supermodels, adding a touch of modernity with backcombed brows.

“Brow couture is big news at the moment,” explains Vimi.

“That’s why we backcombed the brows and worked inwards with colour for a fuller effect.”

The whole look was finished off with velvety soft red lips.

“The idea was to create something angelic, ethereal and sophisticated,” she concludes.

Meanwhile, in contrast to the more laid-back trends of the

season, Omani hair took a trip back to Star Wars with futuristic, lady-like glamour.

Elaborate twists, knots and buns were the feature of day two.

Some were placed high on the head and put to one side for a youthful but sophisticated vibe. The inspiration was Princess Leia from Star Wars, according to one of the main hair stylists Joekim Davie Nielson.

To master your own twist, simply blow-dry hair straight, create a clean centre part if wanted, and secure hair into a firm ponytail, spritzing with shine mist.

From there, you can wrap the tail into any number of looks – a loop with the ends pointing up or tucked under, a round ballet bun, or the classic double knot – sealed with a shot of anti-frizz spray.

Other trends spotted on the catwalk included sleekedback hair and brushed forward fringes for a punk lite look inspired by the 1980s.

Fashion

BEAUTY

ACE OF BASE Few of us are blessed with the airbrushed skin of catwalk models – but the good news is you can cheat.

Your skin is a lifestyle mirror, so get the basics right by not smoking, drinking plenty of water, eating well and following a proper skincare regime. If all else fails, use a primer.

Find the right foundation for your skin. If you have dry skin, choose a hydrating or moisture-rich formula. The opposite problem can be solved with an oil-free base. If in doubt, a mineral foundation works with all skin types.

Examine the shade in daylight. Your perfect shade will look flawless under the scrutiny of natural light.

If you want to recreate model-worthy sculpted skin, play around with shades using a lighter colour under your cheeks and temples for amazing cheekbones Make the most of beauty technology. Most of the latest foundations have an illuminating quality, allowing the light to reflect off the features for younger looking skin.

Apply your concealer after you’ve put on your base, not before. Use sparingly and focus on areas that need extra camouflaging like under the eyes and around the nose. Apply in dots and use the pad of your middle finger to blend

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p r o m o t i o n

SHOP

the week

FANCY WORLD F

orget about going au natural this season. It’s time to introduce you to the main trend for 2013 – statement jewels.

If it’s big and bling, it’s in – so start embracing electrifyingly bright crystal collars, killer cuffs and dazzling ear candy with dramatic drops.

The stones currently working the celebrity circuit include emeralds, huge chunks of turquoise and diamonds with more carats than Bugs Bunny. Of course, not all of us have the rials to hit Harry Winston for the real deal. But fear not – you can still lead the fashion pack with Fancy World, one of Oman’s leading outlets for imitation jewellery.

Their showrooms are amazing – packed with everything from trendy earrings, necklaces and bangles to the hottest handbags, belts and hair trimmings on the market. In short, this place is a magnet for accessory fiends on a budget. You may not be able to purchase precious gems but you’ll find decent imitations and a great selection of beautiful handicrafts made from natural material such as crystal, leather, shell and beads.

Fancy World currently operates in eight showrooms across Oman and the UAE but there are plans afoot to open extra shops in the Sultanate. Yippee!

For more information or to order a bespoke design, please email fancyworld@live.com or call 00968 24543161 / 00968 97772506 1st floor, Markaz Al Bahja Branch. Discount up to 70 per cent on gifts and accessories until first week of February.

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Health

Beauty

Fashion

TRIED & TESTED Kate Ginn gives her verdict on the latest Repair & Care Body Lotion from Nivea.

A STREET STYLE Name: PETER KARAM OCCUPATION: MANAGER AT RED BULL Wearing: PALE BLUE TAILORED SHIRT WITH ELBOW DETAIL FROM ZARA MAN, TROUSERS BY SPRINGFIELD AND SHOES FROM ZARA MAN, WITH OAKLEY SUNGLASSES Spotted at: SEEB BEACH

s an older woman with skin the other side of 40 (I won’t say how much over), the priority for me now is a skin cream that can attack the signs of ageing on different fronts.

Where once I wanted expensive, fragrant lotions and potions to beautify me, I now value anything that can help hold back the years or at least give the appearance of keeping them at bay.

I’m a fan of Nivea anyway so had high expectations of this cream, which claims to offer 48-hour relief from dry and itchy skin.

Living in a hot climate can play havoc on the skin; the harmful effects of the sun’s rays and the constant exposure to the effects of the everpresent air con, can dry out the old epidermis.

The first thing I noticed about the Repair & Care was the gorgeous smell, fruity with mellow

overtones. The cream was not oily, which can often be the case with creams to tackle dry skin, which was a big plus. It enabled me to carry on writing on my laptop without slipping on the keys.

It applied well and was quickly absorbed into the skin. Afterwards, my skin felt smoother and softer, and the wrinkles on my hands looked visibly less enhanced.

According to Nivea, the cream works in two ways - by strengthening the skin barriers to prevent moisture loss and supporting the skin’s own hydration system.

The Repair & Care bottle announces it’s for ‘extra dry skin’, which is a good description of mine after a day in the office air-con.

It’s also the first Nivea product to offer 48-hour relief, which is quite some feat. Even on my tough old hands, it worked some magic and by the next day, they were still feeling softer than before.

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Health

Beauty

Fashion

HENNA HANDS

Penny Fray and Azza al Riyami tell you everything you need to know about the ancient art of body painting

I

t became hot in the West when spotted on the hands of Madonna and Katy Perry – but here in Oman, henna art has been used for centuries.

An essential part of every stylish wedding, the ancient skill of body painting has now been given a trendy twist. No longer limited to traditional patterns handed down from one generation to another, women now use the plant paint to leave secret messages for their sweethearts.

In fact, brides have been known to hide their new husband’s initials in intricate patterns for them to find on their wedding night.

Like designer bags and statement sunglasses, the work of top henna artists offer caché, and many Omani women will travel miles to get the crème de la crème of designs, jetting over to Dubai and Mumbai if need be.

Customary Arabic motifs usually feature bold flowers and abstract shapes as opposed to Indian Mehndi, which displays detailed drawings of

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bridal scenes and Hindu deities. An increasing number of modern Omanis, however, are going for the more bespoke option of mixing old with new, adding little touches like Swarovski crystals and their favourite quotes for dramatic effect.

But it’s not just about beauty and being bestowed the blessings of Barakah; the henna plant has been known for thousands of years for its medicinal qualities. Cooling and calming, it offers relief from the sun.

Ground into fine powder and mixed with water, the young leaves offer an attractive orange hue, which looks amazing on tanned skin. Be careful of using black henna though – it’s illegal in Oman because it usually contains a highly toxic chemical known as PDD, which is difficult to remove.

Natural henna, however, lasts up to four weeks and can be applied anywhere – from hands, running up to the forearms to feet and calves.

The process takes between five minutes and several hours to complete. Just remember – the colour varies on different parts of the body.

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My Hood

CARS AND OUTDOORS

Cars

Wi-Fi

OUTDOORS

Jaylah Village

Ancient towers and a quaint hamlet makes for great photography

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CARS AND OUTDOORS

My Hood

Cars

Wi-Fi

OUTDOORS

Destination

Jaylah Village Not far from Nizwa, this village of palms and forts conjures up the old Oman.

Words and photos: Jerzy Wierzbicki

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I

f you live in central Muscat it’s easy to forget that there are places beyond the city that are, in many ways, unchanged from times past and where traditional Omani culture lives on. This is never more so than in the mountains, where we can find villages that are secluded from the modern world and life continues in a slow, unhurried pace.

It was in search of this lost world, that I visited the village of Jaylah, which lies off the highway to Nizwa.

Jaylah is like how we imagine Oman to have once been, with its palm tree plantations, abandoned mud brick houses on the hillsides and small, ancient forts placed sentinel-like on the top of the hills.

The sun was not too strong and there was a breeze coming off the mountains, making ideal conditions for walking, exploration and photography.

When I reached the village I pulled my car over next to a cluster of palm trees. With the light on the big leaves, the setting was perfect for vibrant, colour photography. I used my super telephoto lens, which works best when the main object is separated from the background.

Having taken the shots I needed, I turned to the mountains for my next image. Dark, chocolatey hills rose up and made me think of my favourite cocoa-flavoured snack. I climbed up the small hill where the ruins of the lesser tower looked down from the summit.

Taking one camera, I made the

short walk between the hills.

As I approached I could see the contrasting colours that marked out geological time in the rocks, forming patterns that I wanted to capture.

These formations were ideal for close-up photography. But alas, I hadn’t brought my macro lens so I simply enjoyed the view.

Up here the view was panoramic, taking in the palm trees, small patches of cultivated vegetables and, of course, the hills.

The sky was almost clear apart from a few clouds.

Jaylah is surrounded by small towers and forts located on strategic hills. The village is located beside a wide wadi although the entrance to it is quite narrow. This made it a strategic asset in the past and, until unification of the country in the last century, its defenders were well positioned against enemies from the adjacent territory. It doesn’t take much to imagine the battles that must have been fought over this majestic piece of earth.

A visit here is highly recommended to enjoy a place of real Omani beauty and silence.

travel guide

HOW TO GET THERE The distance from Muscat to Jaylah is around 55 km and it is very easy to find this place.

Just take the highway to Nizwa and pay attention to the road signs, taking a right exit off the highway in the direction of Jaylah. On your right hand side you will see a big concentration of palm trees protected from the water in the wadi by a long concrete wall. A 4x4 car is not needed. There are good tarmac roads most of the way, and the tracks between the hills are good enough for saloon cars. Do not forget a camera with a big memory card. You will definitely take lots of photographs because the place has a special atmosphere.

The GPS location of the junction to the village is: N23’20’43; E58’00’44

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CARS AND OUTDOORS

The LowDown

EXPLORING SEEB

It may not be first on the wish list of top places to live but Seeb does have its own unique charm – and a beach. Sure, it’s not as swish as some areas of Muscat but it doesn’t pretend to be; it’s more about earthy appeal and homely feel. Its location is very convenient for the airport although it’s far from the city centre and many facilities. On the plus side, accommodation is much cheaper, you get more bang for your buck (or rial), which is a big attraction for those on a limited budget. Best of all, it’s home to Y’s office! We love the view from our balcony looking straight out on to the beach.

Some parts may not be chic but Seeb has the sea, where life centres around the beach day and night

The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

The attractively low rents are a major pro. More expats are cottoning on to the value for money and moving in – you can get a spacious five-bedroom villa here cheaper than a two-bedroom apartment in The Wave nearby.

There’s not much in the way of entertainment, and amenities such as schools and hospitals are thin on the ground. The beachfront location means it can get the worst of the humidity rolling off the sea during the summer. It’s also not the prettiest part of Muscat.

Living There The out-of-town location means lots of time in the car or endless taxi journeys to and from destinations. The flipside is that it tends to be less crowded than other more popular areas. What it lacks in sophistication is made up in the low cost rents and good choice of places to live. That said, there are some swanky gated villas on the seafront, so it’s not all bargain prices. Those who crave a touch of glamour do have the Royal Stables and Equestrian Centre on the doorstep. Traffic along the main road on the beach can get a little busy at peak times but it’s nothing like the chaos in other parts of the city and Muscat area.

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Cars Why I Live Here: “It’s because of the sea. I think the majority of people who live here would say the same thing. If you feel depressed or stressed, or have some problems, you can go to the beach and it makes you happy. You hear the sound of the waves and you feel relaxed and forget about your worries. I also like the fact it’s not very busy in Seeb, there’s less people about. I lived in Ruwi before and it was a lot more crowded.”

Mustafa Ozkrut, restaurant worker

Wi-Fi

Outdoors

My ‘Hood

HANG OUTS It’s all about the beach. Whether you want to relax with the family, play or watch the numerous games of beach football in the early evening, jog along the sand or catch the fishermen coming back to shore with their haul, the long stretch of beach always has room on its dark brown surface. Go there at 2am and you can see labourers playing cricket by the moon and streetlight. When the sun goes down, there are a few hotels with attached bars, and a smattering of eateries on the sea front, including Lo Chef, an Argentinian steak house, and our favourite, The Turkish Pearl Restaurant..

PLACES OF INTEREST It’s fair to say that entertainment, sights and things to do are not plentiful. We’ve already mentioned the beach and the Royal Stables, and there’s not much more in the immediate area. For anything more exciting, you’ll need to get a taxi or drive.

Shopping In Seeb Souk there are dozens of little independent shops selling anything from shoes to watches and saris to mobile phones. Basic groceries can be found but for big weekly shops, it’s a drive to one of the large supermarkets out of the area. Seeb Mall is worth a wander but don’t expect any well-known fashion brands. For that, you’ll need to head to two of Muscat’s largest shopping malls a 15-minute drive away, Muscat City Centre and Markaz Al Bhaja Centre, which also has a cinema. For those with greenfingers, Seeb is also home to the city’s main garden centres, located in a row on the same street. Park at one end and walk down.

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My Hood

Cars

Wi-Fi

OUTDOORS

BOWLING

BY SEA

THE BEACH IS THE PERFECT SPOT FOR WEEKEND WICKETS Words: JOE GILL Photo: Jerzy Wierzbicki

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Cars

Wi-Fi

OUTDOORS

I

n late afternoon as the sun begins to dip in the sky, they arrived at the beach on foot.

Armed only with cricket bats, stumps and balls, they begin to mark out their makeshift pitch in the sand. The homemade stumps are pushed into the earth as the first batsmen inspect the ground. Conditions are good and the first ball is about to be delivered.

Y photographer Jerzy Wierzbicki, who was driving past on his way to the office, captured this impromptu game at Seeb beach one day last weekend.

Cricket takes place day and night on the beach. When the sun goes down, floodlights on the beach illuminate the sand allowing the Asian labourers to play into the early hours. Who needs sleep when there is a match to be won?

Most come from the Subcontinent – India and Pakistan – countries where cricket is a national obsession. Many play in traditional loose-fitting shalwar kameez.

Beach cricket is part of Oman’s rapid development as a cricketing nation. The Sultanate only became an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2000 and first took part in the Asian Cricket Council Trophy in 2002. A breakthrough took place at the 2004 tournament when they reached the final, where they lost against the United Arab Emirates – shades of the just finished Gulf Cup. They played in the 2011 ICC World Cricket League Division Three, where they came third.

There are a number of major sponsors of Oman Cricket divisions here including Khimji Ramdas, Al Ansair, Arabian Industries, Pocari Sweat and Muscat Pharmacy and Stores LLC. Oman Air, Nawras and McDonald’s Oman all have their own corporate cricket cup for employees.

Maybe some of the beach players out this week will in the future represent Oman or their home nations at internationals, or even the 2015 Cricket World Cup, that is, if Oman qualify.

CRICKET FOR DUMMIES Bafflement is how much of the world reacts to this archaic but much loved game. Here are some basic rules of the game.

Cricket is played between two teams of 11 men a side. Matches are refereed by two umpires, whose ruling is final.

The word ‘Innings’ is used to describe a team’s or an individual’s turn at batting.

In cricket, unlike Baseball, two ‘batsmen’ are up at a time, not one.

The three wooden sticks - stumps - that the batsman defends are his wicket. They are topped with two crosspieces, smaller pieces of wood, called bails. When the stumps are moved, the bails fall off.

Scoring

Runs are scored by the batsman running between the ‘creases’ (that’s the white line in front of the stumps) and crossing each other midway between them.

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU

My Hood

Cars

Outdoors

WI-FI

GAME BOY

Calling all kidults – otherwise known as grown ups who don’t want to grow up – it’s time to take your gaming to another level with these retro toys, says Penny Fray.

STREET FIGHTER 2 (RO550) Take a trip back to old school gaming with this amazing arcade machine. Featuring the classic Street Fighter 2, this machine from Beautiful Modern Thing will entertain you and your guests for hours.

If retro fighting is your thing, then this is the perfect addition to your games room.

ARCADIE (RO6) As any kidult over the age of 30 will tell you, gaming on a touch screen is not quite the same as using physical controls. That’s why I love the Arcadie concept – a desktop arcade unit designed for both the iPhone and iPod Touch. Play app games using an eightway joystick and dual action buttons.

ARCANE ARCADE TABLE - (RO1600) Whether you’re an avid gamer, a retro aficionado or just in need of an awesome new place to rest your drinks, this console table rocks. Not only does it feature more than 100 games and a joystick, it’s also MAME compatible, allowing you to add endless emulators of all your favourite arcades. Available from www.prezzybox.com

MUST BUYS Jimi Hendrix wannabes will be thrilled with this wireless All Star Guitar from ion. Simply slot your iPad into its body, open the related app and strum the virtual strings for a futuristic guitar experience.

Rock star status has never been easier. For more information, go to http://www.ionaudio.com/ products/details/allstarguitar

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As a journalist, this leather iPad case from the designer Diane Von Furstenberg, naturally appeals. RO60 from www.harveynichols.com

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FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS PORSCHE POWER ‘Go big or go home’ – that certainly seems to have been the motto of C SEED Entertainment System when it recently unveiled the world’s biggest television set.

Designed by Porsche, it boasts a massive 201-inch screen and a RO250,000 price tag. But you know what they say about men with extra large appliances – they have too much money in the bank.

NEW! LG Optimus L7 Smartphone Offering a large 4.3-inch display with an intuitive touch screen, the new LG Optimus is easy to read and navigate around.

Comes with an Ice Cream Sandwich - the latest Google Android operating system.

The Smart Power feature automatically manages power consumption based on how much battery life you have left, so you can keep going for longer.

DLNA certified with LG Smart share, meaning you can share images, music and more with other DNLA-compatible devices.

Text messaging is threaded so you can easily see conversations between you and your contacts.

APP OF THE WEEK

FREE PHONE CALLS THROUGH FACEBOOK The hugely popular social networking site has just rolled out its free Messenger app for iOS. The catch? Your mates need to own iPhones and have the Facebook Messenger app installed on their mobiles. In the words of Alexander the meerkat – simples!

THE GIRLY GADGET

Okay, so USB sticks have become a little passé since the rise of the Cloud. Still, offer us one in pink bunny form from Marc Jacobs and we’re sold. Available for RO15 from www.harveynichols.com

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CARS AND OUTDOORS

My Hood

WI-FI

Outdoors

C ars

Range Rover 2013 510hp at 6500rpm 0-100km/h in 5.4s Engine 5000CC V8 Price RO57,000

Car of the Week The fourth generation Range Rover is an SUV happiest on rough terrain

R

ecently launched in the Sultanate, the new Land Rover Range Rover has been trumpeted as “the world’s finest luxury SUV”.

The British car brand has come along way since its launch 42 years ago as the English country gent’s second most faithful friend after his dog. It predates the whole SUV concept by decades. Although now under Indian ownership, it is still designed in the UK and built at a high-tech plant in Solihul.

After millions of miles of testing in extreme climates and road surfaces, there is little doubt that the 2012 Range Rover can do some amazing things that certain other SUVs can’t. For off-roading on sand, climbing mountains or crossing rivers it is hard to beat, thanks to its all-wheel drive and Terrain Response system, which calibrates the powertrain to different driving conditions. It’s powered by a 510-hp 5.0-litre V8 engine.

The truck-like frame preserves the iconic feel of earlier Range Rovers – it’s still a monster of a vehicle. But by replacing

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the steel frame of the 2002 Range Rover with the world’s first aluminium SUV monocoque, it is the equivalent of removing 420kg, which is the same weight as six passengers.

The interior has comfortable seating with extra legroom in the back and there is as much luxury as you would expect at this price, even down to a mini fridge in the console. Upholstery comes in several styles and for a few more rials you can go for the 1970 model’s oiled-wood and leather fittings.

Controls are dizzying, with a digital display designed to look like the old-fashioned mechanical version on the dashboard. For good or ill, a lot of the electronic controls – from satnav to suspension and sound system – are on the steering wheel.

By virtue of its superior off-road capability, some road testers say it does not handle as well as on normal roads as other luxury SUVs. Fuel consumption is not an issue for 4x4 drivers in Oman, which is just as well.

This is a magnificent ride.

The new Range Rover can be found at Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC showrooms in Muscat, Sohar and Salalah.

Check this out First SUV with a lightweight allaluminium monocoque body structure replacing the steel body of the outgoing model V6 turbo-diesel engine 3.5 ton towing capacity 420kg lighter than previous model, improving fuel economy and CO2 emissions Enhanced all-terrain performance with introduction of Land Rover’s Terrain Response system Re-engineered four-corner air suspension, making for a smoother more luxurious ride Acoustic lamination of the windscreen and side door glass have significantly reduced noise levels 118mm more legroom for the rear occupants

JAN 23 – 29 / ISSUE 254

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