Y Magazine #297, December 5, 2013

Turtles Torn Apart

Exclusive Images of Meat Harvesting OMAN GETS COMPETITIVE / SOCIAL SCRUM / TEEN TECHNOLOGY / LESS OLD WITH GOLD / FASHION FEEL / CAMEL CRAZY / WHAT’S ON / BOWLATHON

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EVERY THURSDAY

VIEWS OF OMAN: NAWRAS NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA PHOTO EXHIBITION OPENS ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR FINDING BALANCE: Multitasking The Safer Way A TART WITH HEART: The Confection Muscat Craves

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Your top guide to the best of Oman, every week

DEC 05 - 11 • ISSUE 297 • WEEKLY

YOUR

COUNTRY NEEDS YOU CHANGING OMAN, ONE GOOD DEED AT A TIME

PLUS!

Health

SPIN TO SLIM

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Food

34

SOUL SUPPERS

Destination

28

COOL CLIFFS

37

TREND BAROMETER GOING UP

EDITOR’S

NOTE

FALSE FACES What’s going on? Venetian façades seem to be the party accessory of the season with several hotels in Muscat throwing masked balls for New Year and Louis Vuitton including gold masks in their latest fashion campaign.

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

GOING DOWN

GLOW IN THE DARK ICE CREAM We’ve lost count of the times when we’ve been trying to eat ice cream at night, with the lights off, and made a horrible mess. But a neon concoction, especially one at RO90 a scoop, is not the answer.

GIVE A DOG A BONE

Feel there’s something missing in your life? What you need is a canine companion and these adorable puppies could fit the bill. Siblings Thor and Violet are just two of the puppies from Al Qurum Veterinary Clinic looking for a ‘furever’ home to make their tails wag. They are 12 weeks old and have been spayed and castrated and had their injections. More puppies are available for adoption. To find out more, contact Al Qurum Veterinary Clinic on 24562263.

Fast forward

K

indness is something we all have in infinite amounts. It costs nothing and the more we use it, the better we feel about others and ourselves. That’s why, in this edition, we’re celebrating International Volunteers Day by meeting the people who ooze goodwill and community spirit. They are the invisible workers who give love to animals, beautify the environment and make life that little bit better for us all.

You don’t have to be Mother Teresa or Gandhi to make a difference. You don’t even have to devote your time to a cause. If you can sew, sing or speak another language, give out vouchers offering friends and family your skills and free time. Don some sturdy gloves and pick up litter. Offer to mentor a junior at work. Even the smallest contribution can make a big impact. After all, charity is highly contagious, and your next good deed may just be the beginning of a wonderful domino effect.

Penny Fray MANAGING EDITOR editor@y-oman.com

THIS WEEK

Team Y has been festive shopping, gobbling cough sweets and hula hooping.

Ways to get your Y fix Online: Visit y-oman.com for even more inspiration.

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eihab Abutaha MANAGING EDITOR Penny Fray

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan

SECTIONS EDITOR Kate Ginn

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DEC 05 - 11 / ISSUE 297

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contents

Features

20 Unsung Heroes

Volunteers In Oman 24 Shame On The Beach

Murdered Turtles

D E C ember 0 5 2 0 1 3

Your Oman

12

06 The Big Interview

Hamza Selim 08 Your Oman

Jane Jaffer 1 0 News

Oman

Competitiveness 13 Oman in 43 Objects

Ships of the Desert 14 Gallery

Instagram Exhibition

This Week

16 This Week

Great Scot

18 Movie Listings

The Hobbit: The

Desolation of Smaug

28 Trend

Ayurvedic Foods 31 Food Review

Daawat

28

Business & Career

16

Food & Drink

20

26 Success In The City

Multitasking

Made Easier

Cars & Outdoors

Health & Beauty

32 Fashion

Touch me

34 Health

Hula Hooping 35 Style Counsel

Barbra Young

37 Destination

Ras al Ruways 40 Outdoors Rugby

42 Postcard From

Brussels

44 Y-Fi

Things for Teens 46 Car of the Week Peugeot

45

32 NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

PARTY SPARKLERS FESTIVE FOOD THE ULTIMATE GIFT GUIDE GETTING CRAFTY THE MAGIC OF IBRI

News

YOUR

Gallery

INTERVIEW

OMAN

TOWN

BUILDER Hamza Selim, CEO and Managing Director Oman of Muriya Tourism Development

Words: Penny Fray Photos: Jerzy Wierzbicki

Tell me about your career in less than a minute: I worked for almost 27 years at the Hyatt before joining Orascom Hotels & Development in 2005, as general manager of the El Gouna resort in Egypt. I became responsible for overseeing the complete town management of the destination, including more than 20 hotels, 150 commercial outlets, a school, a university and a world-class hospital. Earlier this year, I was appointed CEO of Muriya Tourism Development, a partnership between Orascom and Omran, to develop a land bank of more than 20 million square meters, including Jebel Sifah, Salalah Beach and Sodah Island.

You’ve been in the hospitality industry a long time. What first attracted you to it?

I loved everything about it – from the glamour to the service side of things. I joined the Hyatt in 1979, starting as a telephone operator before moving up the ladder. It’s not for everyone but it’s not rocket science either. It helps to be sociable and have a service mentality.

The hotel industry has obviously changed over the decades but in what way?

I think the core of looking after people HAMZA’S SUCCESS SECRETS people. I guess the challenges come from the is the same but the buying habits of the fact we create towns and that means they take client have changed. There was a time  Be loyal. time to mature but people want everything when you just prepared a burger and the  Be passionate.

100 per cent finished. Rome wasn’t built customer would buy it. Now you have  Be determined. Remember, where in a day. Besides, there’s a kind of beauty to adapt the burger to the client’s exact there’s a will, there’s a way. in being involved with something that isn’t needs and wants. Technology has also complete yet. You see the growth and change

changed things immensely. In the future, happening in front of you. Forget about the I think you’ll see more small hotels money. I’m talking about the sentiment. If you come in late, you don’t really merging with bigger chains, increasing variety and service. Brand feel part of the development in the same way. loyalty in hotels are like cigarettes – once you find one you like, you Describe your personality: become addicted.

I’m a good friend and my immediate family means everything to me. I guess What does your job entail?

I’m loyal, passionate and professional – I do things by the book. Saying Well, it’s no longer just about hotels. This is now one of several that, I also like to have fun. I think it’s important to inject an element of segments that I look after. It’s also about real estate, golf and enjoyment in everything that you do. marinas. We don’t just develop real estate – we build towns.

What’s your work philosophy?

What are the highs and lows of your job?

You have to love what you do. That way, you’ll have the right mentality to I must admit that I’d rather be in the field than in the office. Client excel. It shouldn’t be just about making a living. experience is my passion and I like being out and about meeting

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The Voice of Oman

Jane Jaffer celebrates Oman’s first mobile library

correspondence Inflation hits poorer families Dear Editor,

Oman too are high compared to five years ago and many buildings are not being taken care of by landlords.

Price rises and Inflation are already at a peak in Oman, making it extremely difficult for low income people to make ends meet on a daily basis. For many it is a luxury to eat outside once or twice a week with their family.

T

his month sees the launch of Oman’s first mobile library, Maktabati. The Dar Al Atta’a Let’s Read Campaign has been promoting the love of reading to children in Oman since 2007. Thanks to the generosity of the community, Maktabati will now travel around the country, giving children greater access to good books.

It’s probably never been more important that our children love reading. Every two days we create as much information as we did from the dawn of civilisation until 2003. Reading gives us a key to information, qualifications and a good job.

But reading does much more than provide a key to career advancement.

When we read we use our imagination to create a world and look out through others’ eyes. We develop empathy and understanding for others, allowing us to function as more than self-obsessed individuals.

Factual books help us to broaden our minds, learn about the past and equip ourselves for the future.

Albert Einstein once said: “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales.

If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.” He understood the value of reading, and of imagining. I hope we can give our children a world in which they will read, and be read to, and imagine, and understand.

Next week: Sayyida mayya al said 08

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On top of this, airlines seem to put up prices during school vacations, Eid and National Day holidays.

My humble and sincere request to concerned authorities and Government bodies is to see on the ground the reality for common people on low incomes and their livelihoods on a daily basis. Oman will surely achieve a lot under the blessings from Allah and hard work from His Majesty and his cabinet. Inshallah.

In my opinion, the cost of education is also high in comparison to other countries. Rents in

Kindest Regards Habil Bhagat, OHI, Muscat

Raising HIV awareness Dear Y, The article,‘Tackling the HIV taboo’ (Issue 296) had some shocking revelations.

It appears that in Oman the number of people living with HIV is on the rise, according to statistics presented in the report, which is indeed a sad scenario.

Thanks to team ‘Y’ for taking the initiative and presenting a detailed report on the disease.

Best regards, Ramachandran Nair, Ruwi

I feel lack of awareness about the disease is still a major concern, due to which people are not even willing to go for medical testing. It is also a concern when people keep their health status from close family members.

Meanwhile, the Health Ministry’s plans to hold public awareness campaigns are a welcome move.

Let’s hope to see some change in the perceptions of people.

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SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to info@y-oman.com / @ytabloid / /ytabloid. Impress us and the winning correspondent will receive a Grand Hyatt voucher. Guests may redeem gift vouchers from the hotel’s reception.

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YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US

Debate of the Week We asked:

‘Omani innovations are the theme of a new exhibition.

What would your invention be?’

Kehkashan Ayyub My invention would be to make innovative things from waste materials like paper, plastic etc, to make our planet clean and green.

Shyla Ivan My invention would be a machine designed to protect the entire world from natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis and floods, and from all the harmful diseases including AIDS and cancer, so that all people live happily ever after.

Carolyn N Hans Morokutti Robocop for the traffic violators?

Kiara Laetitia A method to teach people to keep Omani beaches clean.

The invention itself is called a ‘bin’; the challenge is to educate people to use it.

LETTERS

E-MAILS

FA C E B O O K

TWITTER

Syed Bokhari I would like to invent a machine that would never waste anything that Allah Almighty has bestowed upon mankind.

Prabhat Chandrashil I would like to invent a self-diagnostic device, which will diagnose health issues and suggest appropriate action.

Hence, most of us can avoid going to the doctor and can test themselves in the privacy of their homes and reassure themselves. However, if an issue is detected then they can go to the doctor to have it treated. Thus, long waiting queues at doctors and clinics will be a thing of the past.

Shyam Karani I would like to invent a human-like robot for assisting the elderly who are weak and helpless and in dire need of help to do the simplest of routine tasks. These human-like robots will also keep the elderly company and provide them some sort of companionship which they always crave for in old age.

I'm a reader

This Week’s Debate: It is the season of goodwill. What will you be doing for your fellow man or woman? Tell us on Facebook.

Saurav Karunakaran, aged seven was spotted with a copy of Y Magazine on Darsait Beach

Rishikesh Chidhambaranathan A vaccination for diabetes. That sounds great for half of the world’s population.

Heetraj Chavda My invention will be to make a machine that gives money to the poor not rich people, so the poor can also live happily and not suffer from malnutrition.

Digan Pandya I would love to start a venture (an NGO), which will eventually help eradicate poverty, give children a right to education and try to provide food to the needy and care for orphans. This is my dream and I will make it true one day either in Oman or in India.

Ayesha Siddiqa My invention would be to make a robot to help doctors in surgical issues and operations so that every operation is successful.

Vijayalakshmi Shetty My invention is to make a potion to cure all the diseases in the world.

Raj Shenoy I would like to invent a voice machine, which will help animals to express and share their sorrows and problems with humans so that we can understand them and treat them well with love and kindness. For sure, Alex the lion at Barka Zoo would love this gadget.

ALI FAREED MOHAMMED MC An Artificial Brain

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

DEC 05 - 11 / ISSUE 297

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YOUR

OMAN

NEWS

STEP UP OMAN

It’s time for the country to push ahead and create a dynamic economy capable of competing on the world stage.

At least that’s the message this week from experts in the Sultanate looking at Oman’s competitiveness and ways of taking advantage of our uniqueness.

Muscat and other cities must play a big role in giving Oman the edge when it comes to standing out in the region and securing the country’s economic future, heard the Oman Competitiveness Forum 2013, organised by the Public Authority for Investment Promotion and Export Development (PAIPED).

Giving entrepreneurs opportunities to start and flourish in the marketplace will also be vital.

“What is emerging from today’s economic situation is the need for countries like Oman to become increasingly competitive,” said HH Sayyid Faisal Bin Turki Al Said, PAIPED’S director general of media and marketing and co-chair of the organising committee for the three-day forum.

“The nature of competitiveness is changing too – it can no longer be based on low costs facilitating the manufacture and export of goods and services.”

Instead, a country’s success will be based on its

ability to develop a skilled workforce, infrastructure and transport system to respond to the needs of the 21st century, said His Highness.

Cities of the future need to be places in which ‘creative and innovative people can live, grow and thrive’, he added.

Globally, more than 100,000 people move to cities daily and creating a strong identity for a city and country means it will attract more talent.

Azzan al Busaidi, PAIPED’s director general of research and IT services and forum co-chair, said: “We have got to highlight what makes us distinctive and what it is that will attract investment, visitors and talent to Oman.”

ORPHAN FUNDS TAKEN A man has been sentenced to five years in jail and fined RO881,979 for embezzling orphans’ inheritance funds.

In a hearing this week, the Court of Appeals in Sohar passed the verdict after finding the accused guilty of fraud, breach of trust and misuse of office.

The man was given a four-year sentence and the huge fine, which is triple the RO293,993 that he

embezzled from the children. He was also handed a separate one-year term and fined RO132,000 for misuse of office and breach of trust.

He was also ordered to return the amount embezzled and be liable for legal fees.

The fraud came to light in May 2011 when authorities discovered that the accused was not depositing inheritance funds for orphans into their bank accounts.

OTTER ART

SPOT THE RICKSHAW It might be a more familiar sight on the streets of India and other parts of Asia but keep your eyes out for a motorised rickshaw next time you’re out and about in Muscat.

If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a Liyang, a red threewheeler, manoeuvering between traffic and zipping along beside you.

Within months of introducing the rickshaw to Oman, Ruwaishad Trading in Ghala has sold around 80 of the distinctive machines.

Their best customers so far have been farmers and gardeners. There are two models, costing RO680 and RO780 respectively.

With a 150cc petrol engine, the rickshaws can transport goods up to 500 kilograms. Larger rickshaws are capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h – though this one is a little slower.

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They are not well known in the art world but the latest work from a quartet in Dubai is creating waves.

You’ll need to go to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to see them in action though.

Why? Well, the artists in question are otters.

Cato, Tiny, Bilo and Diego are creating their own art as part of an animal skills training scheme.

Until December 30, you can pop along to watch the six-year-old mammals at work from 12pm until 8.30pm daily.

Fancy snapping up a piece of their art? You can visit the Otter’s Art Gallery afterwards and buy your own masterpiece.

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11/21/13 5:55 PM

YOUR

OMAN Bite Sized Our new weekly slot takes a lighthearted look at a news issue of the week.

You mean the crisps? I do indeed, those little packets of deliciousness in the distinctive blue and red packaging.

I love them: Me too. In fact, most of Oman does. Chips Oman have been feeding the nation since 1989.

So what’s new? Well, those upstarts across the border in the UAE have been claiming the Chips Oman sandwich as their own.

What sandwich? It’s a concoction of hot bread, spreadable cheese and crushed chips, and is the crispy gem in the Sultanate’s kitchen.

Does it taste nice? Er, is a camel found in the desert? Yes, it’s amazing!

Go to any local café and you can order one.

So what’s this about the UAE? Well, it appears that Emiratis are saying the Chips Oman sandwich is theirs and the country’s unofficial national dish.

How come? Thousands are apparently served every day across the country. Emirati youth, in particular, are said to be big fans.

And now? While the crisps are from a Sohar-based company, the Emiratis appear to be embracing it as their own.

What do they say? They claim the origins of the Chips Oman sandwich are a bit of a mystery.

Isn’t the name a bit of a clue?

You would think so, yes. The product is called Chips Oman after all.

What’s the reaction here? As you can image, Omanis are none too pleased with the cheeky attempt to snatch credit for their dish. WhatsApp has been burning up.

Hmm, sounds like it’s boiling over? All in good fun. One Omani pointed out that, for a start, a proper Chips Oman sandwich is made with Arabic bread and not the roti or paratha they use over the border.

Anything else? Well, they have Chips Oman sandwiches in Kuwait and no one there seems to be claiming ownership.

Don’t say: ‘Chips Oman, made in the UAE’.

Do say: ‘Proud to be chips from Oman’.

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Gallery

Interview

NEWS

DOMESTICS ON RISE The number of domestic workers employed in Oman increased by a huge 25 per cent over a two year period, latest figures show.

Housemaids, in particular, registered the biggest rise since 2010. In total, a staggering 91 per cent of domestic workers are women.

More than 23 per cent of families in Oman had household staff in their employ at the end of last year (2012).

Two years ago, there were 179,501 domestic workers in Oman, increasing to 200,971 in 2011. By the end of last year, there were 224,006 domestic staff

in the Sultanate, according to data recently released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

It comes despite the fact that the number of families requiring help only increased by five per cent over the same period.

Some households with young children or older relatives employ more than one domestic worker, revealed the NCSI. Muscat is top spot for employing domestic staff in Oman, with 38 per cent of Omani families admitting to having help. In contrast, only 14 per cent of nationals in North Sharqiyah have domestics.

Most common jobs are maids, nannies, private car drivers and agricultural labourers.

As for nationalities, domestic staff come predominantly from South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Over 35 per cent are Indonesians, while 30 per cent are Indian.

Almost 50 per cent of male domestic workers are from India.

Filipino female workers are being recruited in higher numbers too.

Nearly 70 per cent of housemaids are married, meaning that many are leaving their own families and children behind to find work in Oman.

STOP PRESS: Oman’s RO740m fuel subsidies are to be reviewed by a new study

A WEEK IN PICTURES

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

Unrest continues in Thailand with street protests in Bangkok erupting into violence between police and demonstrators as a campaign to overthrow the country’s Prime Minister gathers pace

Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says Oman plays crucial role in the region

Football legends Luis Figo, Raul and Rivaldo are among players touted to visit Muscat for friendly match

Authoriites in Saudi are said to be reviewing the ban on women driving in the Kingdom say reports

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS

SHIPS OF THE DESERT These quirky looking creatures have provided Omanis with transport, milk, meat and textiles for centuries. Now the camel has become a tourist feature for the Sultanate.

You can find images of the one-humped wonder on key rings, mugs, postcards and most other souvenirs. In fact, a visit to this amazing country wouldn’t be complete without a ride on one. Being aloft an unwieldy yet surprisingly agile camel can be fun, so long as you don’t get spat on. Eugh!

Our photographer snapped this particular gaggle of golden-haired ships of the desert in Wadi Darbat.

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YOUR

OMAN

G allery

Interview

NAWRAS INSTAGRAM GALLERY

@albusaidi_salim

@ibrahim_alnaabi

@imad_hasan

@khulood_almamari

@mohamed_al_amri

@majidalamril

@m7mmd_gharibi

@salimalrawahi

@alialghafri

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News

Oman captured with cult app and shown at MGM

ESO EVENT GALLERY The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) held its second Eco Bowl this week to raise money for the group’s ongoing projects

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR EVENTS Tuesday 24th December, 2013 Musandam Restaurant – Christmas Eve Buffet, 7pm onwards RO 26.000++ adults, RO 13.000++ children under 12 Trader Vic’s – Christmas Eve Dinner, 7pm onwards 4-course dinner, RO 28.000++ adults, special kids’ menu available Tomato – Christmas Eve Dinner, 7pm onwards A la carte, plus a special 3-course Christmas menu Al Ghazal Pub – Christmas Eve Party, 7pm onwards Entrance RO 5.000 with complimentary beverage, special seasonal a la carte menu.

Wednesday 25th December, 2013 Musandam Restaurant – Christmas Day Brunch, 12.30pm – 4pm RO 30.000++ adults, RO 15.000++ children under 12. (under 6s are free) Tuesday 31st December, 2013 Musandam Restaurant – New Year’s Eve Buffet, 7pm onwards RO 65.000++ adults, RO 28.000++ children under 12 years of age.

Trader Vic’s – New Year’s Eve Party, 7pm onwards 5-course dinner, RO 75.000++ adults, special kids’ menu available Señor Pico – New Year’s Eve Party, 7pm onwards 4-course dinner, RO 51.000++ adults, RO 20.000++ children under 12.

Tomato – New Year’s Eve Dinner, 7pm onwards 3-course ‘Italian Celebration’, RO 44.000++ adults, RO 16.000++ children under 12.

Al Ghazal Pub – New Year’s Eve Party, 7pm onwards RO 32.000++ including unlimited selected beverages and snack platter.

For more information call 24680000.

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02/12/2013 17:53

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE Dec 6

DISNEY MAGIC

Okay, so it won’t be quite as dramatic as the Disney parades of Orlando and Paris but the kids will still love meeting Mickey, Minnie and the gang at Jebel Sifah’s tribute to Walt’s wonderland. Make a weekend of it by taking advantage of the Sifawy Boutique Hotel’s special weekend offers from RO60+.

GREAT SCOT

THIS

WEEK

What to do.

What to see.

What to hear.

DECEMBER

DEC

12 & 14

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Dec 10

FESTIVE FOOD The holiday season is almost upon us. So to help take the stress and strain out of December 25, the Grand Hyatt is offering cooking classes with a tasting twist. Learn how to create a festive feast with top-notch chefs at Tuscany. Then tuck into a three-course Christmas menu with a glass of bubbly. Tickets cost RO25. For more information, please email muscat.dining@hyatt.com.

The intriguing glamour puss of the Tudor saga, Mary Queen of Scots, becomes one of the central characters in this amazing performance by The Welsh National Opera.

For those not in the know, Maria Stuarda is a tragic opera, in two acts, by Gaetano Donizetti, to a libretto by Giuseppe Bardari, based on Andrea Maffei’s translation of Friedrich Schiller’s 1800 play Maria Stuart.

The story, part fact, imagines a confrontation between Queen Elizabeth I and her cousin in a battle for the British Isles. We anticipate a sensational show. For more information, visit www.rohmuscat.org.om

Movies Dec 12

ROCK DJ

Gallery

The Must Read:

WALK FOR HEALTH

THE GOLDFINCH BY DONNA TARTT Have you read it yet? Have you read it? Have you? Tartt’s longawaited third novel is finally here, promising hours of liquid prose and her most enthralling character to date. Equal, many feel, to her triumphant The Secret History, it is a doorstopper, but an utterly compelling dark tale of human frailty.

DEC 13 After bad weather postponed the original ‘Beat Diabetes’ Walkathon, the event has been rescheduled to December 13 at Qurum Natural Park at 8am. The walk, supported by the Ministry of Health and the Oman Diabetes Association, is a part of Landmark’s CSR initiative to encourage people to walk for a cause and take the pledge to beat the condition by staying active, eating healthy and monitoring blood glucose levels.

These days, everyone who is anyone wants to be a DJ. But not everyone has the rhythm. That’s why we can’t wait for the Beats Per Minute Night with Welsh DJ Chris Jones at Senior Picos, at the InterContinental Hotel, Muscat.

FESTIVE FLOWERS

Looking to put some sparkle into your home on C-Day? Whether you’re after the best baubles or festive foliage, you’ll find everything you need to fill your house with cheer at The Flower Shop’s festival on December 12 and 19. Rumour has it that Santa may even make an appearance at the SABCO Centre.

Amara Dermatology Clinic Aspirational Aesthetics Services Offered :– | Laser Hair Reduction | Mesotherapy | Botox | Fillers | Anti - Acne Services | Anti - Ageing Services | Pigment Reduction Services

DEC

12 & 19

| Laser Beard Shaping For Appointments : 24496003,24496319 Location : Villa 973-A, Opposite Chedi Hotel, Next to Camel Racing Federation, 18th Nov.Street,Ghobra , Muscat

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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

Saving Santa

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug The latest instalment of Peter Jackson’s second trilogy sees the young hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) continue his epic adventure alongside Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) and his company of 13 dwarves.

Picking up from where the previous film left off, the companions leave the Carrock and set out eastwards on a quest to rid their former mountain kingdom of Smaug the Dragon, who lies encamped within.

With Ian McKellen’s Oscarnominated Gandalf preoccupied with the rise of a mysterious necromancer, the band of adventurers make their way unaided through the deadly forest of Mirkwood and on towards Lake-Town where they prepare for the final leg of their journey to the Lonely Mountain. It is there that the unlikely hero Baggins has to honour

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his contract with the dwarves and help them to banish the seemingly invincible Smaug from their ancient stronghold.

The ever-popular Benedict Cumberbatch provides a menacing dragon’s voice while Orlando Bloom makes a welcome return as Legolas to complete a strong cast of characters battling with a dazzling ensemble of fantastical creatures from JRR Tolkien’s book.

Having written the screenplay with his long-term collaborators from the Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit; An Unexpected Journey, Peter Jackson retains and employs a strict formula to deliver the kind of cinema experience that satisfies both critics and the public alike.

An enthralling tale brilliantly realised.

Review by Tom Robertson

HAUNTER When Lisa Johnson (Abigail Breslin) starts to feel that she is being haunted in her own home, she is shocked to find out that it is herself and her family who died in 1985 and the ‘ghost’ is in fact Olivia, a young girl living in the same home.

Together they reveal the grim secret of the house and the powerful evil spirit living within its walls. If this is your kind of movie, there’s at least a touch of originality in the somewhat contorted story.

A clumsy elf (Martin Freeman, again) working in Santa’s stables tries to thwart an invasion of the North Pole by travelling back in time and saving Santa from the malign plans of villain Neville Baddington (Tim Curry). Aside from trying to figure out why the script had to include not one but two trips back in

time, the only other question to answer is how class actors such Freeman and Curry, as well as Joan Collins, managed to be roped into this kind of project. Sadly, it’s an attempt at festive movie fun that delivers neither humour nor family entertainment in any real measure, instead opting to tick seasonal cinema boxes. More of a turkey than a cracker.

Out of the Furnace After returning home from serving in Iraq, Rodney Baze (Casey Affleck) becomes involved with a ruthless crime gang and disappears.

Christian Bale plays the older brother whose dead-end job and deep love for his wayward sibling leads him to put his life on the line and search for Affleck. With the police unable to help, Bale has to work alone and takes matters into his own hands, embarking upon a dangerous quest to learn of his brother’s fate.

Scott Cooper, the critically acclaimed author of Crazy Horse, delivers a gripping tale of fate and justice that is supported by a brilliant performance from Woody Harrelson as the intimidating Curtis DeGroat.

Bollywatch Dedh Ishqiya

Following the 2010 film Ishqiya, Dedh Ishqiya is a comedy thriller set to make yet another refreshing change from the tried and tested sing, dance and cry Bollywood formula. While some song and dance refuses to leave the set, a smart injection of comedy and adventure into a tale of love and friendship means that this sequel is set to enjoy box office success. Under the competent direction of Abhishek Chaubhey, Madhuri Dixit stars as the feisty female lead while Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi reprise their former roles for this highly anticipated sequel.

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elping children in need, clearing litter from beaches, doing hospital visits or giving time to care for an abused animal. These are just some examples of the type of voluntary work that is quietly making a difference in the Sultanate every day.

These people have already discovered the secret that doing something for others can be beneficial in all sorts of ways.

As the world marks International Volunteer Day on December 5, there’s no better time to get involved on a grassroots level and really make a difference to someone.

And it’s not just a warm glow of goodness that you’ll feel after doing acts of altruism.

Research has shown that donating your time will actually make you happier, both emotionally and physically, with increased levels of the oxytocin, known as ‘the love hormone’, which makes us more confident and provides that warm, fuzzy feeling that has been called ‘the helper’s high’ by psychologists.

So, it’s a medical fact that giving to others can make a difference to your own wellbeing as well as someone else’s.

“Donating your time is one of the most reliable short cuts to happiness, reduced stress levels and enhanced physical health,” says author Oliver Burkeman.

With a new year around the corner, it’s a good time to reassess your life’s path. If you want to be better, happier and more fulfilled in 2014, the answer could be volunteering.

Put some effort in and the recompense will be beyond monetary rewards. The knowledge of making a difference to someone or something in your local community or country as a whole will be worth more than material gain could ever bring.

ive

a helping hand Help Oman celebrate International Volunteer Day by getting involved in your local community. You’ll find it can make a difference in your life too, reports Kate Ginn

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“I feel good about giving back,” says Mohammed Abdullah Furqan, who volunteered as a marshal at last year’s Muscat Festival and is now a voluntary worker at Qurum Natural Park.

“I wanted to do something and when I heard that I could volunteer for the Muscat Festival, it made sense to me.”

Trying to make volunteering a more attractive proposition is still a challenge. The will is clearly there, though.

When the inaugural Sultan Qaboos Award for Voluntary Work was announced two years ago, more than 151 projects were put forward – involving more than 100 individuals. Volunteering doesn’t need to be confined to charitable efforts, as laudable as they are – a man who voluntarily archives historical records belonging to Omanis won one prize in the voluntary awards, for instance.

Promoting the joys of volunteering was also the topic of a regional conference held in Muscat last week.

“We have faced challenges to disseminate the culture of voluntary work in the Arab world,” said Yousef bin Ali al Khadim, secretary general of the Arab Union for Voluntary Work.

Governments have an important part to play in getting the message, he added.

Initiatives such as Jusoor, a non-profit social responsibility organisation, are helping to spread the word in Oman.

Part of their work includes a Volunteerism Programme where people can get directly involved in a number of causes.

“Through these activities, Jusoor strives to raise awareness of the importance of voluntary work and the benefits it brings to society at large and to the individual volunteer,” says Jusoor.

Volunteer work can be an underrated activity. Look more closely, however, and the many personal benefits shine through.

From just feeling helpful or a sense of achievement, to learning a new skill and meeting new people, the gains offered are endless – not to mention the thrill of seeing your hard work making a tangible difference.

“The reason I volunteer is because I love it from my heart, and I want to give something to society,” says Saleh al Aghbary, who has volunteered as the Special Olympics Oman sports manager.

Others say that volunteering makes them feel more attached to the country, part of a united, and often invisible, workforce helping to make things better behind the scenes. It requires dedication and commitment, with the possibility of little or no recognition.

“Most volunteering is for social and environmental organisations and projects,” says Sreedhar Ambati, who has written about volunteering in Oman.

“Many of them are underfinanced and lack resources, so they survive on the help of volunteers.

“There are many organisations, big and small, around Oman that are using the work of volunteers to help causes in need, from wildlife preservation to disabled sports coaches.”

From the Environment Society of Oman to Dar Al Atta’a, the list of groups needing help is endless.

And without an army of willing volunteers offering to give their time freely, some charitable causes just wouldn’t exist.

The Oman Cancer Association (OCA), for instance, relies on volunteers to man its office (which is moving to Al Ghubra) and assist at events and campaigns.

“We have a very big volunteer database we can turn to for things like our annual Walkathon,” says an OCA spokeswoman.

“Normally people come to us looking to volunteer because they know about the good work that we are doing.

“Some are cancer survivors or have family and friends going through cancer. They want to be part of this organisation and spread awareness.

“If people have the time and can spare a little of it, we are very grateful.”

Finding the time is not always easy. We live in a fast-moving world, where work, family, children and friends are demanding our attention and energy.

But even just an hour a week can make a difference somewhere to someone. Give and you’ll be amazed at how much you get back.

GET INVOLVED  The act of volunteering is found in all cultures, languages and religions. Each year, hundreds of millions of people volunteer their time and skills to help make the world a better place. On December 5, people around the globe will celebrate International Volunteer Day with rallies, parades, volunteer fairs, group clean ups, blood donations, conferences, exhibitions, fundraising and workshops.  For more information on the campaign go to www.volunteeractioncounts.org/en where you can also download the new International Volunteer Day logo.  If you are interested in joining any of Jusoor’s voluntary activities, you can send an email to: volunteer@ jusoor.om.Visit www.jusoor.om. For volunteer and membership details for Oman Cancer Association go to www.oca.om Environment Society of Oman’s address is www.eso.org.om

What activity do you prefer? a. Exploring the natural world Oman has so much to offer. b. Teaching and team pursuits – you like to see others do well. c. Cooking, photography and writing anything creative. d. Anything involving facts and figures – you need order to feel satisfied.

Which word best describes you? a. Energetic. b. Sociable. c. Creative. d. Organised.

If you could meet one of these people who would it be? a. Cameron Diaz. b. Nelson Mandela. c. Katy Perry. d. Bill Gates.

If you answered mostly As - You fizz with energy

and have a thirst for adventure. Get involved with environmental charities and animal protection groups.

If you answered mostly Bs - A sharing, caring type, you’d work well with children, the elderly and Oman’s disadvantaged.

If you answered mostly Cs - Creative and cool, you work best in enhancing a charity’s brand and fundraising efforts with marketing campaigns and events.

If you answered mostly Ds - You’re an introverted organiser who works well with technology, figures and facts.

Without you, a charity or organisation would barely function.

DEC 05 - 11 / ISSUE 297

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nsung Heroes

Y spoke to some of the people volunteering in Oman

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hortly after arriving in Oman four months ago, Wendy Troost was already set on finding some voluntary work.

Mrs Troost, who is Dutch, decided even before moving to the Sultanate that she wanted to offer her services as a volunteer.

“I always intended to volunteer when I came here,” she explains.

“I’m not able to work because I’m on my husband’s visa but I still wanted to do something useful.

“I’m very much into animal welfare and it seemed like an area where you could make a difference in Oman.”

She now takes care of abandoned or stray puppies, fostering them at her home in Qurum until they can be found a permanent home.

“It was quite easy to get involved,” says Mrs Troost. “I found some puppies close to where I live and took them in.

“I was approached by another lady who is doing something similar, and we spoke to a local vets.”

At the same time, Mrs Troost, a communications consultant, was asked to become the editor of a magazine for the Dutch community in Oman on a voluntary basis.

She now combines that role with her animal welfare volunteering. At the moment she has three puppies, which are poorly and need nursing back to health, but intends to take on more.

“I’m planning to do more for the stray dogs. Ultimately, I would like to bring in something more structured such as a catch, neuter and release scheme, working together with animal organisations which are already in place here.”

In her view, giving something back to the community enriches her life as well as others.

“Volunteering is enjoyable in lots of ways and I feel that I am doing some good.

“Another reason to do it for me is that I want to do something in return for this fantastic country and its people, who have been so welcoming.”

Nada

u

Cuddling a sick puppy, Nada al Moosa admits that her voluntary work looking after animals seems to be taking over her life.

She recently moved from Qurum to a large house in Al Amerat with a small outside area to accommodate her growing menagerie of four street cats, four Persian cats and two wadi dogs. In between running her bakery business, My Cupcake, and being mum to her 17-year-old daughter (who has just left to study at a university in the UK), it’s a wonder how she finds the hours to volunteer. But she simply makes the time.

“I just can’t turn a blind eye to what’s happening, it’s heartbreaking,” she says.

At the moment, she is caring for several puppies. In total, she has helped rehome 13 animals. While a donation box in the shop helps pay for the animals in her care, it’s rarely enough. The last vet bill was RO200, over half of which was paid out of her own pocket.

She admits that her fellow Omani nationals did not always view animal welfare as a big priority.

“They don’t take volunteering for animals seriously. Omanis do volunteer for other things but not for dogs and cats.

“The situation here is pretty bleak though and the animals need help. My heart is aching just looking at these puppies.”

She certainly has no thoughts of giving up her voluntary efforts.

“It makes me happy. I sleep like a baby knowing that I have done something good.”

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Nada al Moosa

Wendy Troost

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ahara Hamayon may be only 23 but she’s already got several years volunteering under her belt, including initiating a charity campaign called ‘Buy a Painting, Paint a Smile’. The artist, who works as a marketing executive and event consultant at iKey Design in Muscat, sold her paintings to buy food supplies for those less fortunate in different wilayats of Oman.

“If God has given you a talent, such as singing or painting, then I think you have to use that talent to give more to humanity,” says Sahara.

“I wanted to target youth and children, where we could really bring a difference.”

At the end of last year, Sahara and her sister, Fatima, started a second phase of the project, rounding up 80 volunteers from Oman and beyond with a passion for art to help paint a centre for children with special

needs. Staff from the Royal Opera House Muscat even pitched in to help. In three days, they managed to paint two buildings with three floors each, and a playground, adding much-needed colour at the Hams Al Atheer Rehabilitation Centre.

“I put a post on Facebook asking for help and we were overwhelmed with the response from people wanting to help and give their time and skills freely,” says Sahara.

“I think the secret of getting people to volunteer is to connect with them emotionally and then they feel a pull to help.”

Next is a twin project to raise money for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan, which recently devastated the Philippines, and those in need in North Africa. More details on how people can participate will be posted on social media sites later this month.

After that, the plan is to find another two worthy causes in Oman to help in the coming new year.

“I do believe that God will reward you, one day or another, for your deeds,” says Sahara.

“The rewards for what I do are not monetary or material gain.

“When I was delivering the free food supplies, a little boy came up and when I gave him a parcel, he gave me a huge smile. That is the best feeling in the world.”

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SHAME

BEACH On The

Y captures dead turtle being illegally cut apart and meat taken away in bags Words: Kate Ginn Photographs: Jerzy Wierzbicki

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ith a knife in one hand, the man works swiftly slicing and cutting through the flesh while someone else stands by with a bag waiting to be filled up.

Once the carcass has been striped clean and the spoils collected, they leave in cars parked close-at-hand.

Left behind are the remains of a sea turtle, an endangered species, dumped like a piece of rubbish to rot. Its severed tail lies nearby along with one of its flippers. There is dried blood congealed near its neck, staining the sand.

In a series of photographs, Y captured five men harvesting meat from a turtle on a beach in Oman.

Turtles are protected under law in

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The mutilated corpse of a turtle on the beach near Al Khaluf

the Sultanate, covering not only killing the marine creatures but also disturbing or damaging their habitat, and maltreating them in any way, including ones that are already dead.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs is now investigating after Y handed over our evidence.

Our photographer Jerzy Wierzbicki stumbled on the horrific scene while out covering another story in the Sharqiyah region. On the way back, he stopped off at the beach near Al Khaluf to take some pictures of the picturesque beach and dunes.

“It’s a very popular place for being on the beach and for desert driving with beautiful white sand

dunes,” says Jerzy.

“Where the sand meets the sea is one of the biggest beaches in Oman, so I wanted to get some photographs.”

Around 2km along the coast from Al Khaluf, he saw some movement on the beach.

“I could see some people with knives taking meat from a turtle and putting it into a plastic bag. I knew that what they were doing was wrong.

“If you find a turtle dead, it’s protected by law and you don’t have the right to touch it.”

Jerzy, who has come across dead turtles before in different states of decay – some with similar damage to the neck as this one – approached the men pretending to

be a tourist interested in fishing.

“They didn’t seem interested to talk and when I asked to take photographs of them, they said ‘no’.”

Retreating back to his car, Jerzy managed to take several photographs of the activity while lying low in the sand dunes out of sight.

“I wasn’t afraid that they would notice me. I knew that I had to show what they were doing. It was upsetting to see.”

Turtles are a huge tourist attraction and the image of one being brutally butchered is an unsavoury sight.

Thousands of sea turtles migrate annually to lay their eggs on the Sultanate’s shores and protected

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nesting sites such as Ras Al Hadd, Ras Al Jinz and Masirah Island are strictly monitored.

In April, Y published photographs showing dead turtles, one with a neck wound and the other floating face down in the sea, which we had found on the beach at the Barr Al Hikman peninsula in the Al Wusta region. In this case, there were no signs that the bodies had been dissected.

Turtles are susceptible to boat strikes or being entangled in fishing nets, but poaching is also a problem.

When we showed our latest photographs to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs, the response was swift.

“The case has been reported to the authority concerned and action will be taken if the evidence is there,” a ministry spokesman assured Y. A royal decree allows penalties for harming turtles or their eggs to protect them from poachers.

Fines are given out for first offences and repeat offenders will be referred to the Public Prosecution for potential legal action.

“It is banned but unfortunately we do have people abusing this law,” says the Ministry spokesman.

In a progress report last August on its Turtle Research and Conservation Project, the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) highlighted that the ‘harvest of adult sea turtles’ in the marine environment was a threat.

Y’s photographer Jerzy, who has travelled all over Oman for work and spends most of his spare time recording the Sultanate’s stunning natural beauty, was adamant the photographs needed to be made public.

“I am lucky with my job that I can go to places that are only reachable for some,” he says.

“These incredible locations allow me to take pictures so I also feel a responsibility for the environment. It’s the source of my life.”

Audi 2013 Year end Campaign_Y Magazine_15.5h x 21.5w.indd 1

These men are caught in the illegal act of harvesting meat from a turtle

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BUSINESS & CAREER

Trend

Networking

Minute Mentoring

MULTITASKING MADE EASIER

Y asked a panel of business people in Muscat for their top tips on tackling everything on their to-do lists. Here are the results: EAT THE FROG FIRST: If you have something that you don’t want to do, don’t keep putting it off. It will weigh you down, potentially causing worry and fatigue. Get it over with and you’ll feel better.

FOCUS ON THE TASK AT HAND: Give everything you do your full attention. This will allow you to move from one task to the next with maximum effectiveness.

CLOSE YOUR OFFICE DOOR: If you’re constantly interrupted for relatively unimportant matters, you’ll lose focus. Carve out time in your diary when you cannot be disturbed.

TAKE A BREAK: Even machines can’t work unendingly at the same effectiveness. Close your eyes for a few minutes and meditate. You’ll find that even a five-minute break can recharge your batteries.

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Trend

Networking

Minute Mentoring

BEING Balanced Our ability to juggle countless tasks doesn’t just help us battle through the to-do lists of modern life; it’s also something that gives us pride. But is it healthy? Penny Fray investigates

A

s I’m typing this article, I’m sitting at the kitchen table listening to my friend rabbiting on about festive gifts, one hand on the keyboard, the other stroking an attentionseeking missile of a cat.

My mind should be focusing on the task at hand but in actual fact, it’s running frantically through all the things I need to do by tomorrow. It may be a long weekend but there’s a lot to get through. I feel scared yet strangely exhilarated. It’s hard to remember the last time I did only one thing at a time.

As any modern professional will attest, multitasking is something we’ve developed an aptitude for. In fact, over the past decade or so, technological advancements have created more methods to allow us to juggle work at every opportunity. (Just think of the iPhone 5’s new function of voice command texting). We can email colleagues while in meetings and arrange our social lives while striding down supermarket aisles. Easy.

Blame genetics and the superwoman myth if you like, but the biggest pressure to perform springs from the changes in the way we work.

Traditional roles have evolved to include marketing, online strategies and human resources as more and more companies streamline their corporate structure.

On top of ploughing through emails, taking calls and planning projects, we may also be involved in raising our company’s profile through social media and networking events. In short, we’ve become little more than iPhone totting machines.

It may be a necessity but experts are now saying that multitasking is doing you more harm than good. Stress is the main problem, which in turn, results in headaches, sleep problems, heart disease, depression and a whole heap of other medical issues.

It’s also not very time efficient in the long run.

“The word multitasking is inaccurate because you are not performing multiple tasks. You’re actually switch tasking – switching rapidly back and forth between each task. As you do this you pay tiny switching costs which ultimately slow you down,” says Dave Crenshaw, author of The Myth Of Multitasking. “In the end, tasks take around half to twice as long to do.”

In fact, one study found that the average worker needs 25 minutes to return to their original job after an interruption, whether a phone call, email, or a visitor to their desk.

So what’s the answer? Well, we have to be realistic. We can’t reverse time. Technology is here and working methods have evolved. That horse has already left the stable, so to speak. But we can instigate small but significant changes in our routine to ease the pressure, including improving work management flow, ditching the to-do lists and working with our natural rhythms.

Research shows that we work best between the hours of 9am12pm – ideal for big projects – but get more easily distracted between 1-4pm, making it a better time for low-value tasks.

WHAT THE EXPERT SAYS: STOP THE BRAIN DRAIN “Multitasking involves a person having a certain level of attention and energy. Someone who is constantly trying to multitask will end up losing focus because it’s not always possible to keep the mind constantly active. They’ll end up tiring the brain, lowering their attention and concentration levels as well as their memory retainment. Increased stress levels also affect health and can lead to burnout, which means longterm exhaustion and a diminished interest in work.”

Roma Fernandes, clinical psychologist at the Whispers of Serenity clinic in Muscat.

BUSINESS BUY GIRLS ON TOP Ask most women whether they have the right to equality at work and the answer will be a resounding yes, but ask the same women whether they’d feel confident asking for a raise, promotion, or equal pay, and some reticence creeps in.

In Lean In, Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook COO and one of Fortune magazine’s Most Powerful Women in Business, draws on her own experience of working in some of the world’s most successful businesses and looks at what women can do to help themselves.

Name: Ali Hab Position: Assoc ib Al Ghusaini Hyatt Muscat. iate director of sales, Grand Character: I st all, everything com rive for contentment. After happy for whateve es and goes, so it pays to be Would Like Tr you’ve got. context, HM Sultao Meet: In a personal of world peace. In n Qaboos. He is an icon anyone who wants a business setting though, Contact me o five-star hospitality. n: ali.alghusaini@ hyatt.com

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food and drink

MEET THE INDIAN SUPERFRUIT According to Ayurvedic principles, regular consumption of amla, a kind of Indian gooseberry, balances all three doshas of vata, pitta, and kapha. It promotes longevity, improves digestion, purifies the blood, strengthens the heart, and enhances concentration. Try some Alma Ki Mithai during this week’s Soul Food Festival at the Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant.

Chef Pardeep Singh has sweetened the sour-tasting fruit with murubba and added some saffron and fennel seeds for flavour.

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Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

TREND New Restaurant

SOUL FOOD With celebrity supporters such as Madonna and Oprah Winfrey, the Ayurvedic approach to eating has never been hotter. Penny Fray finds out more about the 3,000 year-old diet that can help you beat the bloat

News

WHAT’S YOUR DOSHA?

Vata: People who are predominately vata are spiritual, positive and adaptable when balanced — and restless, indecisive and fearful when not.

Warm, wet dishes such as soups, oils and herbal teas can help ease common problems such as dry skin and stiffness.

B

alance is something that’s talked about a lot. But finding your equilibrium between the busy demands of modern life is a tough ask. That’s why Ayurvedic diets are currently all the rage.

Many fans of this ancient Indian way of eating find that their energy levels go up, sleep improves and weight usually balances out without munching on lettuce leaves. That’s why this week, Mumtaz Mahal are offering a selection of Indian dishes that have been perfected over thousands of years as part of their Soul Food Festival.

Ayurveda is centred around three energies called doshas — vata, pitta and kapha. Each person is a unique makeup of these doshas, which need to be balanced through diet for better health.

“Ayurveda is very clear when it comes to food, ‘sattvic’ (pure) ingredients are needed to heal and maintain good health,” says chef Pardeep Singh. “They must incorporate six tastes in every meal: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, astringent and pungent.”

The Muscat-based event offers a plethora of dishes known for their medicinal qualities, including Bharwan Karela, to help control diabetes and blood disorders as well as watermelon gazpacho for a stronger immune system.

“Ayurvedic foods are favoured by diners around the world,” says Goutam Moudgill, general manager of the Mumtaz Mahal. “It’s popular because of the spices and also because it has that aspect of Ayurvedic cookery that is all about the digestion. What Indian food does is activate the glands, while the complexity of flavour offers real depth.”

With regard to nutrition, it goes beyond ‘you are what you eat’ to ‘you are what, when, how and why you eat.’

Pitta: Those who are mainly pitta are competitive, powerful and focused. They are leaders and visionaries when balanced but may become demanding and arrogant when out of sorts. A diet of sweet, cool foods such as juice, salads and raw seeds may help retain balance.

Kapha: Kaphas are

said to be kind, caring and patient people.

When balanced, they are providers and nurturers.

But when unstable, they lean towards depression, neediness and secrecy.

Physically, they may suffer from weight gain, high cholesterol and congestive disorders. Bitter, light and dry food such as salads, beans, citrus and whole grains may help.

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food and drink

REVIEWS

TART DE TRIOMPHE

Penny Fray samples the Portuguese pudding making waves in Muscat

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reshly baked bread, olives, cheese and cataplana – there’s no doubt that the Portuguese have perfected the art of cooking (and eating) simple, delicious meals. But if there is one dish that captures the essence of this extraordinary country more than anything else, it is the pastel de nata.

If you haven’t tried this delicious custard tart, then you should. But there’s no need to go to the famous (and ancient) patisserie in Belém, you can sample the national dish right here in Muscat.

Pedro Delfino, originally from Portugal, is determined to showcase the best his home country has to offer by importing its goodies here. The revolution starts with piping hot pastel de nata, which can currently be bought at the Casa de Café in Ghubra – and soon at Nando’s.

“It’s a traditional treat that is eaten almost everywhere in Portugal,” explains Pedro.

“Their origins are fairly mysterious in that they were believed to have been created by monks in Lisbon.”

In medieval Portugal, the country’s convents and monasteries produced large quantities of eggs, whose egg-whites were in demand for starching, so it was quite common for these Portuguese orders to create amazing confections with the leftover egg yolks, resulting in a proliferation of sweet pastry recipes throughout the country.

Since 1837, locals and visitors to Lisbon have visited the famous bakery in Belém (where they were first made) to purchase fresh from the oven pastéis, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Their popularity normally results in long lines at the take away counters, in addition to queues for sit-down service.

“Eventually, I want to create a little slice of Portugal in Muscat,” adds Pedro. “A place where you can sample the best of the country.”

Future export plans include olive oil, cod and cork.

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Pastel de Nata Ingredients:  2 cups minus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour  1/4 teaspoon sea salt  3/4 cup plus two tablespoons water  16 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, stirred until smooth  3 tablespoons all-purpose flour  1 1/4 cups milk, divided  1 1/3 cups granulated sugar  1 cinnamon stick  2/3 cups water  1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract  6 large egg yolks, whisked  Powdered sugar  Cinnamon

Method

To make the dough:

 Mix the flour, salt, and water until a soft, pillowy dough forms cleaning the side of the bowl.  Generously flour a work surface and pat the dough into a six-inch square. Cover with cling film and let it rest for 15 minutes.  Roll the dough into an 18-inch square. As you work, use a scraper to lift the dough to make sure the underside isn’t sticking.  Brush the excess flour off the top, trim any uneven edges, and using a small offset spatula dot and then spread the left two-thirds of the dough with a little less than one-third of the butter to within an inch of the edge.  Neatly fold over the unbuttered right third of the dough, brush off any excess flour, and then fold over the left third. Starting from the top, pat down the packet with your hand to release air bubbles, then pinch the edges closed. Brush off any excess flour.  Turn the dough parcel 90 degrees to the left so the fold is facing you. Lift and flour the work surface.

Once again roll out to an 18-inch square, then dot and spread the left two-thirds of the dough with one-third of the butter, and fold the dough as in steps 4 and 5.  Roll out the dough to an 18-by-21-inch rectangle, with the shorter side facing you. Spread the remaining butter over the entire surface, and then roll the dough

away from you into a tight log, brushing the excess flour from the underside as you go. Trim the ends and cut the log in half. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and chill for two hours or preferably overnight.

To make the custard

 In a medium bowl, whisk the flour and 1/4 cup of the milk until smooth. Set aside.  Bring the sugar, cinnamon, and water to a boil in a small saucepan and cook until the thermometer registers 220°F (100°C). Do not stir.  Meanwhile, in another small saucepan, scald the remaining cup of milk and whisk into the flour mixture.  Remove the cinnamon stick then pour the sugar syrup in a thin stream into the hot milk-and-flour mixture, whisking briskly. Add the vanilla and stir for a minute until very warm but not hot. Whisk in the yolks, strain the mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and set aside.

To assemble:

 Heat the oven to 550°F (290°C). Remove a pastry log from the refrigerator and roll it back and forth on a lightly floured surface until it’s about an inch in diameter and 16 inches long. Cut it into scant 3/4-inch pieces. Place a piece cut-side down in each well of a non-stick 12-cup mini-muffin pan. Allow the dough pieces to soften several minutes until pliable.  Have a small cup of water nearby. Dip your thumbs into the water, then straight down into the middle of the dough spiral. Flatten it against the bottom of the cup to a thickness of about 1/8 inch, then smooth the dough up the sides and create a raised lip about 1/8 inch above the pan. The pastry sides should be thinner than the bottom.  Fill each cup 3/4 full with the slightly warm custard.

Bake the pasteis until the edges of the dough are frilled and brown, about 8 to 9 minutes.  Remove from the oven and allow the pasteis to cool a few minutes in the pan, then transfer to a rack and cool until just warm. Sprinkle the pasteis generously with powdered sugar, then cinnamon and serve. Repeat with the remaining pastry and custard.

If you prefer, the components can be refrigerated up to three days. The pastry can be frozen for up to three months.

Trend

New Restaurant

REVIEWS Info Box

DaaWat Restaurant Al Burj Street (opposite Oryx House), Ruwi Contact: 24787980 Food for four, plus drinks: RO24

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

CURRYING FAVOUR

VERDICT

It takes a lot for an Indian restaurant to stand out from the crowd in Ruwi but Daawat gives it a good shot, says Penny Fray

F

ancy trying some Asian style street food without having to track down a truck or tucking into a Pani Puri on a crowded pavement? Then you’ll love Daawat. It’s a chic Indian restaurant that, in my view, seems to pay homage to the geniuses of roadside culinary creations. The small portions served here mean that you can sample more of the menu than usual and indulge in a veritable feast.

Three things to note are the great prices, efficient service and minimalist décor. I loved the natural hues of pale green and light brown that gave the place a modern, Zen like quality. The booths were spacious and everything seemed spotless (until you go to the toilet, but more on that later.)

We don’t often venture to this end of town due to traffic and a lack of geographical knowledge. But seeing that it was a long weekend and Mr Big’s driver was chauffeuring, we thought ‘why not’?

Daawat had come highly recommended by a French friend who is a real foodie, so expectations were high. He had even called me from the venue a couple of days previously saying how amazing it was, which meant that said expectancy went up a notch higher. And I guess that was the problem.

We all expected something sensational – a hidden gem among a treasure chest of culinary crystals.

The reality, however, is that this is only a great little eatery if you live in the area and can’t be bothered to cook. The food is inexpensive and fairly tasty but nothing extraordinary.

We all have such a place. And I have several due to the long hours I work (otherwise it gets embarrassing when the server knows what you’re going to order before you do due to the frequency of visits. Even worse when they think you’re there so often because you fancy them).

Anyway, I digress. The service was hyper efficient and the whole ordering process seemed to have been concluded before I had even registered the contents of the menu. Leo, who is originally from South Asia, had conferred with the waiter, explaining that I didn’t like spice and selected some suitable dishes.

Everyone, bar me, tried the various lassi-flavoured drinks that were excellent apart from the salty one, which was a little too brackish for Mr Big’s taste buds. Next came the starters, a mixed kebab platter containing fish, tandoori chicken and mutton sausage. The delicately flavoured fillets of fish were amazing despite the fact they weren’t freshly caught that day (and came from frozen). The bright orange chicken bits were just as succulent. I’ve never been that keen on old lamb, despite the fact it’s now back in vogue with

7.5

:

10

Great v res uarlue Indian ant wit decenta h t enoug and ev food en beh service tter

Michelin starred chefs, so I declined the mutton sausages. Both Leo and Mr Big tucked in and seemed indifferent to them. “They’re okay,” was the conclusion.

The panneer rolls were much yummier and were gobbled up just as soon as than they were put on our plates.

Mains consisted of a couple of vegetarian and meat dishes. Butter chicken is always a favourite of mine if the spicing is mild, and this was. I felt a bit guilty making everyone down-spice because of my bland, British palate. My companions tried the fresh mutton Rogan Josh, which was a little hotter, and declared it a hit. The bhuna vegetables and methi malai seekh were just as good. The stars of the show, however, were the cheese and butter naan breads. They were the best I’ve ever tasted. Soft, fresh and deliciously moist, they soaked up all the flavoursome sauces without the bloat.

The service was efficient and unobtrusive. Our water glasses were constantly topped up and the moment plates were cleared, more food was offered. Four mixed main dishes with bread seemed to be just about enough to feed everyone without too much of the wastage you usually see with communal dining.

I was ready for pudding and regretted recommending the kulfi to my friend while I tried the carrot halwa. The latter was disgusting, a bit like warm, mushed carrot. Ewww! None of my companions liked it either, although Leo said it tasted exactly as it should.

I didn’t like his rasmalai either. I guess I’m used to having Indian food that’s been westernised to a point where it no longer tastes authentic. The kulfi, however, was deliciously sweet and creamy - a real crowd pleaser.

Having guzzled almost a bottle of water, I needed the toilet, and regretted it when I clambered up the stairs. The ceiling was ridiculously low and the bathroom less than salubrious. It wasn’t grimy as such, just not polished like the dining area. The floor was stained and there weren’t any fripperies like hand wash. The place suddenly seemed all fur coat and no knickers.

The evening ended with a couple of cups of the uber trendy masala tea. It wasn’t as good as I’ve tasted previously but it was hot, wet and acceptable. Mr Big’s ginger tea fared better.

The bill was remarkable considering how many dishes and drinks we had ordered. We had an Indian banquet for less than RO25, plus some lovely little bags of rainbow coloured sweets to go.

All in all, it was an enjoyable evening. If I lived in the Ruwi area, I’d probably be a regular. But alas, this isn’t a destination restaurant worth battling through the commuter traffic for.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

FUZZ OFF

Soft and ridiculously warm, designers didn’t shy away from using fur for fall – just go the faux route with shrugs and tactile accessories using manmade materials. We love the high-octane glamour of this little number from Marks & Spencer. It can be worn day or night.

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Health

Beauty

fashion

TOUCH ME

This shearling vest from H&M is versatile enough to be dressed up with a LBD or down with a pair of ‘skinnies’ and a white tee. From RO26

What some winter collections lack in colour they make up for with intricate and surprising textures, says Penny Fray

More is definitely more this season, so add a sequined scarf to the mix. This skinny number from Isabel Marant looks cool. But if you can’t justify the RO220 price tag, there are plenty of similar pieces in the mall and markets for around RO5

T

here is something about this time of year that sees even those suffering from hot flushes seduced by all things furry and fabulous. Of course, it’s the start of winter but it is also a time when we feel free to unleash our inner diva and wear something a bit more flamboyant than usual, including sequins, feather shrugs and furry bags. And it’s just as well because texture is one of the biggest trends of the month. From faux fur and pony skin to embellishment and surfaced leather, the key is to have fun and take fashion to the max. Wear multicoloured faux fur with attitude and mix it with everyday numbers like jeans and a t-shirt for added luxe.

We loved Fendi’s cult owl bag until we realised that it contained mink. Unfortunately, animal skin has made a stealthy return to the heart of high fashion this season with nearly 70 per cent of designers incorporating fur pieces into their collections.

Thank heavens for the high street, I say, as many chain stores like Zara and Topshop won’t stock it, preferring man-made materials instead. Indeed, there are plenty of fake fur pieces out there to satiate even the most rampant fashionista, including Splash’s furry knuckle box bag, available for less than RO15.

Temperatures may be dropping but fur coats aren’t really easy to wear in this desert climate, so look for lighter gilets and shrugs instead. For added impact, wear with leather trousers or sequin skirts. The trick to looking more vogue than ‘big bird’ is careful layering. Alternatively, stick with strokeable accessories.

Not into fur, faux, or otherwise? Feathers are winter’s loveliest fashion frippery in that they add texture and glamour to any outfit. From baby’s-breath maribou and dainty ostrich fronds to shimmering jewel-toned peacock, few adornments can match these sartorial flights of fancy.

Leather trousers have made a big come back this season.

For maximum comfort without cruelty, try these PU pair from Mango.

RO14.50

How cute is this textured PU pinafore from Splash? Wear with a blouse for some much needed modesty.

These booties from Vincci tick several fashion boxes thanks to their feminine silhouette, touchable texture and leopard skin print. RO20 Minimalists will love Zara’s take on the fur trend with this very wearable black shopper.

RO39.90

FAKING IT

Penny’s tips to wearing faux fur this winter

1 Acid hues like yellow and pink give a designer edge to fur this season. 2 Add a dash of much needed eccentricity to cocktail hour and your standard LBD with a bright, furry clutch. 3 With her vegan routes, Stella McCartney is the designer to go to for statement and luxurious faux fur.

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H ealth

Fashion

Beauty

HOOPING FOR

HEALTH Get trim without the gym. Penny Fray tries the retro-style workout that’s got the stars in a spin

W

e’ve got major hoop dreams — but not the basketball kind (we’re far too short and old for that). No, we’re talking about hula hooping, the childhood pastime that’s become the coolest way to keep fit this season.

Everyone who is anyone seems to be spinning to stay slim at the moment, including celebrities such as Pink, Beyoncé and even Michelle Obama.

Now the trend has been given a new twist in the form of pop-up classes where dozens of fitness fans groove in unison.

It seems that hooping has come a very long way since we spun light plastic circles in the playground.

“This is definitely the new Zumba,” says Elizabeth Paris, a mum of four from Muscat.

“I do it with my eight year old daughter who loves it. We even have spin parties where all her friends and parents get whirling.

It’s cheap, fun, sociable and doesn’t really feel like exercise.

All you need is a hoop (we bought ours for 600 baisa each from the local supermarket) and plenty of space.”

Master the technique and you’ll get an all-body workout strengthening your abs and core as well as improving flexibility and raising your heart rate.

You can burn 400 calories in an hour – that’s more than swimming and a gruelling boot camp session. Get spinning three times a week for a month and you’ll lose between three and six inches all over your body. Yep, belly included.

But it’s not just about the body; the exercise also helps the mind, as the rhythmic motion of hooping brings about beneficial changes in brainwave activity, tackling both depression and stress.

If you want to up the stakes, why not combine the retro exercise with other techniques including Pilates and yoga?

Hoopilates is all the rage in New York, after all.

“It’s easy,” says Pilates instructor Jen Bleiber. “Just start up with a basic three-minute warm up with a hoopla around the waist. Then, stand with your feet hip distance apart, and inhale as you lift the hoop above your head. Twist to the side.

Inhale again as you reach the centre and slowly exhale as you turn in the other direction. And repeat.”

Hula hooping may be undergoing a revival but the craze dates back centuries with evidence that the Egyptians and ancient Greeks whirled hoops around their waists for both fun and fitness.

Hula Hooping For Beginners  Put the hula-hoop on the ground. Larger hoops are ideal for beginners because they spin more slowly, which gives you more time to adjust to the rhythm.  Step inside, bringing the ring up to your waist. Then put one foot in front of the other to gain balance. Grip the hoop firmly with two hands before relaxing the hoop against the side of your torso.  Spin the hoop counter-clockwise, moving your waist in a

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circular motion.  Push your stomach forward as the hoop moves across your stomach, and then thrust it back. Eventually you will find a perfect motion for pumping your torso.  Continue spinning, moving your waist in a circular motion as you aim to get the hoop to wrap itself around your waist.  If the hoop falls below your waist or even crashes to the ground, pick it up and try again. The art of hula hooping is as much about getting the feeling for the motion as it is about following instructions.

Health

Beauty

fashion

STYLE COUNSEL

BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

Q

Dear Barbra, I’m a real fan of Y’s fashion pages and really enjoyed last week’s style counsel. I’ve just moved to the Sultanate a couple of months ago to teach. I’ve been invited to a colleague’s wedding. She’s Omani but I have no idea what to wear. I understand from a friend that female wedding parties tend to be a very dramatic affair with lots of colour, gems and make up.

I usually wear sporty clothes or jeans, so I’m worried. I don’t want to stand out too much but I don’t want to look garish or ridiculous either.

What’s your advice? I’m 30-years-old, dark haired and a size 12. Justifying spending any money on a new outfit means that I have to be able to wear it again. Jo, Muscat

A

Dear Jo, It’s always a dilemma to know just when to frock up and when not to, particularly if you don’t know the crowd.

In my opinion, a wrap dress ticks all the boxes. You can dress this modern marvel up with an evening bag, high heeled shoes and a statement necklace or play it down with simple accessories. A wrap is a wardrobe staple in that it flatters most body shapes (especially

the curvaceous) as well as being appropriate for all ages and occasions. You will wear it forever.

Think cost per wear and thank me each time.

So, where to go? Well, few things in fashion are more iconic than Diane von Furstenberg’s wrap dresses. This ‘New Julian’ style is made from silky-smooth jersey and cut with three-quarter sleeves.

Plus, the colour is Insouciantly chic, Barbra Young, a former amazing. You can designer and retailer buy it from Net-APorter for RO135. If that’s beyond your budget and you are willing to take potluck, there are some wonderfully good value pieces by designers such as Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors at Brands For Less for around RO15. They’ll be a season out of date but it doesn’t matter when you’re dealing with well cut classics. When it comes to statement jewellery, Muscat has a wealth of fantastic little shops full of costume pieces that just cost a couple of rials. Try Fancy World in Markaz Al Bahja or Accessorize (pictured).

Do you have a question for Barbra? Email info@y-oman.com

GOLD FACE

W

e’re all in favour of a little luxe here in Y Towers, so when someone started raving about a cult facial that involved being slathered in gold, we were all ears.

Margy’s glistening facial at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray in Dubai, involves a 24-carat gold chain-mail mask that helps stimulate cell growth for younger looking skin.

Rumour has it that this place is so good that Princess Charlene of Monaco is one of therapist Yoko Sophia’s clients.

It doesn’t come cheap (and if you have to ask, you can’t afford). Then again, nothing good ever does.

STREET STYLE Name: Selen Saleh OCCUPATION: Banker Wearing: Michael Kors top, Mango skirt WITH bag from Charles and Keith.

Spotted at: MQ

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My Hood

Cars

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Outdoors

CARS AND OUTDOORS ocean of SAND

Go where the dunes meet the sea in dramatic style at Ras al Ruways

DEC 05 - 11 / ISSUE 297

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CARS AND OUTDOORS

My Hood

Cars

Wi-Fi

Outdoors

Destination

Ras al Ruways ROLLING SAND DUNES ENDING IN A CLIFF DROP TO THE SEA CAPtiVATE JERZY WIERZBICKI 038

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travel guide

here the arid expanse of the desert meets the sea you can witness an epic struggle of two different worlds. Both are fighting to stop the other encroaching on their space. It’s a battle that has been raging for thousands of years and will continue for many more.

Standing on the cliff at Ras al Ruways, I took a moment to take in the sight of natural forces at work. There are not many places in Oman where sand meets the waves in such dramatic fashion, so this is quite unique.

It had been a year since I’d been here, longer than I would usually leave it but the weather had not been conducive to exploring with rain, storms and overflowing wadis. Conditions like this can be dangerous.

So when a break in the downpour came, I took my chance and headed off to the Interior. Cool temperatures are ideal for a trip to the desert, making conditions more predictable and safe. With me as ever was my trusty canine companion. As regular readers know by now, where I go Trop usually follows.

Our destination was a small fishing village located in the Ash Sharqiyah region called Ras al Ruways (also spelt Ruwais), where the stunning white sand meets the turquoise open sea. It’s a very popular place for fans of 4x4 driving in Muscat.

You can get to the Ruways beach through Wahiba Sands on a track running from Bidiyah between the dunes.

Because I was alone, I chose the longer way via Sur and Ras al Jinz (the famous turtle reserve).

I really love this road, especially the stage near Al Ashkharah, where the route skims along next to the sea passing through small villages on the shoreline.

Trop and I set off early in the morning and, after a quick stop in Ras al Jinz, reached the dunes of Ruways in the afternoon. The weather was perfect with a fresh wind coming in off the sea.

In the sky, a small group of clouds were herded together like a flock of fluffy white sheep, making good conditions for photography.

On the sandy track, I pulled over and deflated my car tyres. Before going on soft sand, I always reduce the air pressure, which increases the amount of tyre in contact with the sand, giving you more traction.

Driving was easy as I moved between the sand heaps – the lower temperature makes the desert surface a bit harder – and I made good progress towards the sandstone cliff near the sea.

It’s not just photographers who find Ras al Ruways of great interest. Geologists and natural

historians are drawn to the area too.

It’s an impressive vista as the dry and hot sandy desert meets the humid and salty sea. A big cliff with a massive vertical wall is exposed to the elements, layered with different colours of minerals like ribbons.

From the top of the cliff you can see pieces of sandstone, which have broken off and fallen into the waves below.

Fitting a wide lens to my camera, I was able to capture some panoramic shots all along the cliff, which runs for several kilometres.

The great thing about this place is that any amateur photographer should be able to take a similarly sweeping shot.

Where the sea meets the desert, nature has created some incredible colour combinations with the cold, greenish water broken by the white waves lapping the warm yellow of the cliff and sand.

I parked on the top of the cliff and moved to take some photographs of the sandstones. Here again the wind and years have created very symmetrical forms that seemed to look like millions of tiny plates glued together to form bigger structures.

Suddenly a small gecko appeared from a crack in the rocks. I inched back to my car, parked a few metres away, and quickly swapped the lens for a short telephoto one. Luckily, Trop was distracted elsewhere and I was able to get some good photographs of my new reptile friend.

After preparing some food and vanilla flavour coffee on a small bonfire, I rested up to check through the photos I’d taken. I was satisfied with my afternoon’s work. Take the time to follow in my footsteps. I promise that you won’t be disappointed.

There are two different tarmac routes to Ras al Ruways. For the shorter one take the road from Muscat to Ibra and head to Al Ashkharah by Route 35, which is located near the ocean. From Ashkharah, go in a southern direction until you see a sign to Ras al Ruways. Turn left between the dunes. There are many tracks which will lead you to the cliff and beach. Total distance is around 400km. The second route is much longer but much more interesting. Go to Sur and make a break there to see the natural port, especially in the early morning. Later, go to Ras Al Jinz and head south towards the sea road. The distance is around 100km longer but the views are worth it.

Do not forget about the basics of driving on sand. A 4x4 is compulsory and remember to deflate the tyres beforehand.

Travelling with friends in a second car is safer.

Google Earth location of Ras al Ruways is: 20°59’19.28”N 58°47’52.94”E

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Cars

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O utdoors

GET INTO

THE SCRUM It’s rough, tough and a great way to get fit – the social scene isn’t bad either. Why not give rugby a try, says Kate Ginn

A

s another tackle comes crunching, the play moves on with players piling fearlessly into each other. Hands and feet seem to be flying everywhere.

The sheer physicality of rugby is clear for all to see. What might be less evident is that, while appearing to be slightly chaotic and haphazard, the game is actually highly technical and organised with strict laws and rules governing every aspect of play.

For those in the know – and it can be complicated to follow – rugby is an exciting blend of skill and brute force. There is a huge fan base too. Almost 100,000 people from around the world attended the Dubai Rugby Sevens event last weekend, which finished on Saturday.

Two teams from Oman took part in the Invitation Tournament section.

Now in its 44th year, the Dubai Rugby Sevens has grown to become the best sporting spectacle in the UAE – and the longest-running international event in the Middle East.

It’s obvious, then, that rugby has a big and long-standing following in the region.

So, you may ask, what is the fuss all about?

Well, rugby aficionados will tell you that it’s a game of passion, full of action, excitement and beauty, as well as unpredictable moments and dramatic scenes on the field.

Indeed, there’s an old saying that football (soccer) is a gentleman’s game played by ruffians and rugby is a ruffian’s game played by gentlemen.

Whatever you may think, the game is tremendously popular, and is played in over 120 countries throughout the world.

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In Oman, the sport is a minnow compared to soccer, but the Muscat Rugby Football Club (MRFC) trains regularly at its grass pitch next to the American British School in Al Khuwair.

The rugby season kicks off in October with match fixtures pitting the Muscat players against regional teams including Bahrain, Kuwait and Doha for the Gulf Premiership.

As for the origins of the game, there is some debate. William Webb Ellis is often credited with inventing the idea of running with a ball in hand in 1823 at Rugby School in the UK when he apparently caught the ball while playing football and ran towards the opposition’s goal.

More likely, however, is that the game evolved from a form played at Rugby School and introduced elsewhere by former pupils.

To add to the confusion, the sport is split into union and rugby league. Rugby league is basically a faster, more entertaining and spectator-friendly sport with slightly different rules.

There are also all sorts of variants such as Rugby Tens and Rugby Sevens – as seen in Dubai – which is now recognised as an Olympic sport and will make its debut in the 2016 Summer Olympics.

And contrary to belief, rugby is not just for huge man mountains capable of smashing through a brick wall – although that can come in handy of course.

“Territorial, full-contact and a team game, it’s inclusive of all shapes and sizes, where 20-stone bulldozers are valued just as highly as small, pacy whippets,” says the Rugby Football Union.

My Hood A Playing Charter sets out rugby’s basic principles: conduct, spirit, controlled physicality and contest for possession.

If you fancy a go, there are opportunities in Oman to get involved.

Muscat Rugby Football Club has a long history, stretching back to 1971. The first site in Wattayah had four telegraph poles with metal pipes serving as goal posts and a clubhouse of donated Portakabins.

It’s come a long way since then.

They have won three Dubai Sevens crowns and, as the only team representing the Sultanate in the Arabian Gulf, Muscat RFC were the Arabian Conference Champions 2011/2012.

The club proudly wears the national colours of Oman – white, red and green – after being given permission in 1977.

There is a junior section and a big social scene connected to the rugby club with regular events for all ages.

In the south of the country, there is the Dhofar Nomads Rugby Club. Based in Salalah, a friendly club for players from anywhere in the Dhofar region.

“Membership is open to beginners and seasoned players over 18 years old who are interested in getting fit and keen to play seven-a-side rugby,” says the club.

“It’s a great way to meet people from all walks of life, and although small, the club still enters a team in the Dubai Sevens every year.”

Whether watching or playing, rugby is a game for all seasons.

Cars

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Struggling to get to grips with the finer points of rugby union?

Our easy guide explains the basics and terminology The aim of the game is simple – to score more than the other side.

A game lasts for 80 minutes (two 40-minute halves with a 10-minute interval) on a grass pitch with an H-shaped goal post at each end.

There are two sides of 15 players and six substitutes (rugby league has 13 players and four substitutes), officiated by a referee and two touch judges.

The game is started by a place kick or drop kick from the middle of the halfway line.

Touching the ball down over the opponent’s line scores tries, worth five points. This can be converted to six points by kicking a goal (between the H-shaped post).

Other means of scoring are a penalty kick or drop goal through the posts (both worth three points).

You can run with the ball, kick it and pass it, but passing forwards is not allowed.

As it’s a contact sport, you can tackle your opponent to get the ball. You can’t tackle around the neck or above.

The ball is not round like a football but oval shaped. All balls must be between 28cm and 30cm in length and weigh between 383 and 440 grams.

Players are either forwards (the big guys) or backs (those smaller with speed). Positions include Hooker, Full Back, Blindside Flanker, Left Wing and Inside Centre. The Scrum Half and Fly Half are the tacticians of the game.

Know the terminology Lineout – Restarts play after ball has gone out. Players line up and ball thrown down middle.

Maul – When one or more opponents hold a player carrying the ball and teammates join in. Everyone is moving towards the goal line.

Ruck – One or more players from each team close around the ball on the ground. Once a ruck has been formed, only feet can be used to get the ball.

Scrum – Restarts play after minor infractions. A contest for the ball with eight players locked together and pushing against each other.

Think you’ve got what it takes?

Muscat Rugby Football Club www.muscatrugby.net Dhofar Nomads Rugby Football Club www.facebook.com/dhofar.nomads Muscat Pirates Junior Rugby Club Open to all children and teenagers, male and female from the age of four to 18. www.muscatpiratesrugby.com muscatjuniorpirates@gmail.com

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CARS AND

OUTDOORS WHO ARE YOU CALLING DULL?

Anyone who has ever joked that Belgium is boring obviously don’t know about this country’s delicious food, astonishing art history, 60-plus UNESCO sites and bizarre carnivals that make Rio’s look insipid. For those willing to shatter stereotypes, Brussels is a beautiful and deeply intelligent city.

Top 5 Places To Visit: 1. The Grand Place 2. Atomium 3. Magritte Museum 4. Bozar 5. Manneken Pis

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Cars

Wi-Fi

O u t d o o r s postcards from

Thomas Robertson,

language student in Muscat, recommends:

BRUSSELS

Brussels is often seen as a city dominated by EU political institutions and the European headquarters of multinational companies. But look underneath the corporate exterior and it becomes clear that once the ‘suits’ have headed home, Brussels is a city that excels in taking it easy.

With a quiet appreciation of life’s simple pleasures, the Belgian capital offers an unassuming destination recharging depleted batteries; good food, fine house reds and daringly strong tipples abound in a multitude of individually owned bars, brasseries and restaurants as yet untouched by the tendrils of commercial franchising.

From the weekly antiques market of the Marolles district, amble down through the central warren of cobbled streets to the trendy fashion boutiques and open-air fish restaurants of St. Catherine. Then call into the L’Archiduc café for some post-shopping afternoon jazz.

Alternatively, venture further afield using a sprawling public transport system to climb up inside the polished steel spheres of the Atomium for a panoramic view over the city. For A t o m iu m those with a love of history, head south out of the city to the town of Waterloo for a tour of its famous 19th century battlefield.

Brimming with café terraces and a multitude of cultural sights, a visit to Brussels can be as leisurely or action-packed as you want it to be.

My Favourite Place: Tucked away in the tiny alley of Impasse St Pétronille nestles the unique Theatre Royal de Toone. Half bar, half theatre, this rustic relic whose roots date back to the 1830s stages live puppet performances of classic tales such as Romeo and Juliet. Even if you don’t speak French, the sheer zany experience of sitting on wooden pews in a converted attic while watching original ‘marionettes’ and supping on trappiste drinks is surely one of a kind.

Highlights: A UNESCO world heritage site since 1988, the Grand Place is a former marketplace whose staggeringly rich architecture has the power to leave its visitors aghast.

Whether hosting dizzyingly high Christmas trees and dramatic light shows in the depths of winter or the Belgium beverage festival under blue summer skies, there is something to entertain you here whatever the time of year. For those whose taste in horticultural delights is tickled by the Grand Place’s biennial carpet of flowers – and the 750,000 flowers that it comprises – make the effort to break out of the city centre to find the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, open for three weeks at the end of April each year.

Triumpha l Arch in Cinquante naire Parc

Lowlights:

Brussels is blighted by the prevalence of a strictly laissez-faire attitude and a muddle of administrative layers that forms an impenetrable wall of bureaucracy to city improvements. On the receiving end of this dynamic is the city’s once glorious architecture that now risks falling into a general state of disrepair and that some would argue is positively grubby. This is a real city for real people. Don’t expect Disneyland.

Souvenirs: A visit to Belgium just wouldn’t be complete unless returning home laden with boxes of

fine Belgian chocolates. Take your time to discover your favourite chocolatier but if you want the choice of the Royals, the historic Mary is aptly located on Rue Royale.

For the child in us all, books and miniatures of Belgium’s other famous export, Tintin, can be bought in Tintin's city centre store. If you’re a real fan, make the brief direct train ride to the Hergé museum located in the small town of Louvain-la-Neuve where you’ll be greeted by a tasteful homage to the author and his creations, as well as a wider choice of memorabilia to lavish upon friends and family.

Where to stay: The advantage of a city whose catering businesses rely heavily on a weekly influx of politicos working at the European Parliament and Commission means that weekend accommodation deals are easily snapped up in the European Quarter of Schuman. Aloft hotel has a strong reputation for clean, smart rooms, friendly service and competitive weekend prices.

For those wanting something special, the prices of Hotel Metropole on Avenue Anspaach are upstaged only by its own art deco grandeur.

Manne

ken Pis

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Postcards from

Cars

Outdoors

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Teen Spirit

If you thought buying for younger kids was bad, it’s harder for teens.

Matt Herbst selects the latest cool kit for the awkard age

THE TECH IN YOU

head strong

Safety gear isn’t usually much fun but with the ability to customise your helmet, Egg is just the ticket for looking cool while out and about. The helmet uses Flexible Adaptive Sandwich Technology (FAST), the brand’s patented layer construction, to achieve better safety. The first stage of personalisation comes with Egg’s polyester and elastane skin.

This washable layer is slipped on and is available in a variety of different designs to suit your personality. Top it off with an add-on that snaps simply onto the helmet’s outer shell.

RO37 www.johnlewis.com

You CAN SAVE

Wind me up

A wind-up gadget for a future engineer, the Pintacuda has legs of different lengths, which allows it to hop peculiarly, as if it intends to take off in a hurry. Made of zinc and steel with plastic feet, it’s definitely odd but nevertheless a lot of fun. You can collect all members of the critter family. Ideal for a young mechanic who observes how little parts make gadgets work. www.amazon.com RO5

EDITOR’S PICK A-MAZING

Back in my time you would PURCHASE A lucky packet AND INsidE WOULD BE CANDY AND SOME MIND BENDING puzzlES. tHE BEST WAS THE small ball maze games, they were tough to solve but addictive. Here is an epic and much larger one called Perplexus Epic. You flip, twist and turn the sphere to manipulate the metal ball through a complex maze. A great game that develops hand-eye coordination with spatial relation. Time to step away from computer games for a real challenge. www.amazon.com RO9.60

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It looks like a can of soda, feels like one, so it must be one. Right? Wrong. This ingenious Diversion Safe will fool thieves and friends alike. It keeps valuables secure simply through distraction and psychology.

When we see a soda can, we think it contains something to drink. It makes the perfect hide-away for small valuable items. Of course, it’s such a cool piece of kit you may find yourself showing it off to your mates. Just don’t throw it away forgetting it contains your life’s savings. www.amazon.com RO3

FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS IF YOU BUILD IT

So you want to be the next Norman Foster?

This LEGO Architecture model makes a distinctive and fascinating addition to any desk, living room or bookshelf. The Leaning Tower of Pisa has a trademark tilt that has seen it reproduced on postcards and souvenirs all over the world. Now you can build history’s most famous bell tower and learn how the famous lean started. Available from www,amazon.com for RO10.

The tower is just one of several iconic buildings available from LEGO.

NEW! XBOX ONE The console we’ve all been waiting for has finally been revealed. The Xbox One combines a new assortment of abilities, from voice-activated TV to gesture-controlled surfing and multitasking. It’s a revolution in entertainment that is sure to be on everyone’s wish list. RO384.615 available at www.amazon.com or any leading game store.

Control your console using voice commands. This means you can activate it just by walking into the room and saying “Xbox, on”. Users can start playing a game or watching a TV show, change channels, turn up the volume and more, simply by issuing voice commands.

Watch live TV via Xbox One - It lets you watch TV directly from your console. This means you can be playing a game and cut straight to television any time you want, while still receiving Xbox notifications.

Get a personalised home screen. Kinect can recognise you and instantly log you into your personalised home screen. Your favourite games, shows, TV channels, movies, albums, contacts and recently played apps can be pinned right to your home page.

APP OF THE WEEK

Real Racing 3 developed by EA Games is one of the best free racing apps of the year with the clearest and most realistic graphics yet seen on an app game. The new upgraded version has the pinnacle of Italian engineering with hot new vehicles from the world’s most desired and cuttingedge manufacturers. The Enzo Ferrari joins the family of extreme performance cars, along with the 458 Spider and 599 GTO. It also has new weekly Time Trial Tournaments – climb to the top of global leaderboards and win huge prizes.

Relive your victory with full cinematic cameras, playback controls and dominate the competition in over 100 new events including racing in Dubai. The app is free at www.itunes.com - See you on the track.

Record and share your greatest moments. The Xbox One has a digital video recorder (DVR) function which can capture up to five minutes of gameplay at a time. If something remarkable happens, you can shout “Xbox record that” and it will grab the video clip. And much, much more. Go to www.xbox.com for full specs and features.

THE GIRLY GADGET

This small silicone purse from One Button is the perfect size to store your loose change – and the eye-catching hue means it’s easy to spot in your handbag too. It’s made from silicone, making it durable and light weight. Both functional and fun, it resists tears, stains and fading. Everlasting I’d say.

Available at Brands For Less for RO3

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CARS AND OUTDOORS

Postcards from

Wi-Fi

Outdoors

C ars

Peugeot 408

Engine: 2.0 litre, four cylinders Horsepower: 145 Transmission: six-speed automatic with Tiptronic and Sport Mode Top Speed: 195 km/h

Car of the Week

It has elegance, comfort, a bit of luxury and tons of space, making the new Peugeot 408 an ideal family car, says Kate Ginn

B

efore we start, I should confess to having a bit of history with Peugeot. My Dad had a dark red Peugeot 407 saloon car for years and I later bought a light blue 208, which faithfully travelled with me all over Scotland where I was working as a journalist. Polly Peugeot (as I called her) and I had some great adventures together.

So I was more than a little interested to hear that the French car manufacturer had created a new mid-size model, the 408, which was initially rolled out in China at the Beijing Motor Show in 2010.

Now, it’s finally reached our shores and been launched in Oman.

This is a much bigger car than my ‘little lion’ (Peugeot’s emblem is a lion) with rather more bite and space, and, if the statistics are anything to go by, plenty more roar under the bonnet too.

It’s quite clear that the 408 is pitched at the family market – or young professionals with sights set at being parents in the near future – with a deliberate mix of space, safety, performance and elegance all wrapped up in the familiar Peugeot package.

In case you’re wondering, it’s not a direct replacement for the 046

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407 (this will be the 508, due out next year). Apparently, this car was originally designed for the Chinese market, where customers clamour for four-door saloons with separate boots and plenty of room for rear passengers.

A top-notch medium-size luxury saloon, the 408 is also produced and sold in South America and Malaysia.

It certainly has a dynamic look with the trademark feline headlights and thin chrome strips on the radiator grille. I also like the sweeping sculptured lines of the bonnet and arcing bodyline, giving it a sleek, big cat feel.

The rear lights are ruby red and trimmed with a clear white strip that hints at a lion’s claw.

This is a big pussycat compared to my 207 lion, however, with an extended wheelbase, more width and height, making for more leg room, elbow room and headroom.

Oh, and there’s also ample space in the back.

The punchy 2.0 litre engine provides enough growl to cope with the Sultan Qaboos highway or the infamous Route 31 from Muscat to Salalah.

This simplicity, according to Peugeot, provides a ‘subtly sleek, pure and sensual ride’. Blimey, that is some billing to live up to.

Still, the 408 is, I’m told, one of the most powerful cars in its segment, boasting approximately 30 per cent more power than Japanese rivals. It also features a Tiptronic transmission for sporty driving.

Steering, some reviews have noted, can be a little heavy at times.

Now, if you’re the sort who loves heading off to explore Oman at the weekends, then this could be the car for you.

Its cavernous rear boot has a capacity of 562 litres, so you can stuff it with loads of camping gear, a change of clothes and essentials, and still have room left for anything from pushchairs to small bikes.

Inside, there are all the creature comforts you would expect, along with a newly designed instrument panel with enhanced illumination.

If you fancy a bit more ‘luxe’ (who doesn’t?), you can opt for the ‘Active’ variant, which includes leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with aluminium inserts, a rear armrest with two cup holders and even a holder for sunglasses.

Parents will be happy with all the safety features, including six airbags. All in all, the Peugeot 408 lion is a good bet for discerning parents and their cubs.

They say: ‘Space, performance and elegance.’

We say: ‘Big-hearted lion with plenty of bite.’

Check this out

17” alloy wheels Halogen headlamps Automatic rain sensor CD player with MP3/iPod connectivity Bluetooth and USB connectivity One-touch power windows with anti-pinch Premium automatic dual-zone air conditioning system with rear vents Tilt and telescopic steering Six airbags Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)