Y Magazine #303, January 16, 2014

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BRIBERY CASE: CONVICTION AND PRISON FOR THREE PEOPLE FROM HERE TO MATERNITY: What To Wear RAD ROBOTS: Mechanical Maids

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Your top guide to the best of Oman, every week

JAN 16 - 22 • ISSUE 303 • WEEKLY

IT’S NOT OK to harass women on OUR streets

PLUS!

Fashion

GYM GEAR

01

NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

Food

30

COLD CURES

Business

26

SUCCESS IN STARS

24

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ON THE GRAPEVINE Rumours are that a wealthy Omani has paid out 16 million pounds (RO10.1 million) to buy a mansion in England belonging to a Premier League footballer. The buyer, from the Sultanate, is reported to have made an offer for the nine-bedroom white house in Surrey that owner, Chelsea defender John Terry, could not refuse.

TREND BAROMETER GOING UP

i-RESIGNATIONS Want to quit your job without the uncomfortable confrontation? Say hello to the app everyone’s talking about. Quit Your Job helps you determine why you’re going before crafting an appropriate text to your boss. Most say cool, we say cowardly.

It’s up there with text dumping.

GOING DOWN

ROAD RUDIES Yes, we know you are behind us. But there’s a car in front and the speed limit is 120, so stop flashing your lights, bumper chasing and gesticulating. You are going nowhere. Accept it with grace and patience.

THIS WEEK

Team Y has been organising Tweetups, supporting Oman in football stadiums and breaking even more New Year resolutions.

EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

Fast forward

A

few months ago, a man with a phone chased me through the airport car park taking photos at close quarters. He didn’t say anything, which somehow made things worse. Around the same time, a friend was followed down Sultan Qaboos Highway. When she finally got out of the car, the man approached, asked whether she was married and only walked away when she threatened to call her husband. Almost every woman I know has stories of stalking, catcalls and sexual suggestions whispered in their ears. But it was only after a video was sent round of a woman being manhandled on the streets of Muscat, that I really stopped and thought how bad the harassment can be. Curious, we asked our Facebook followers about their experiences and were alarmed by the sheer number and content of posts – all tales of unwanted propositions and persecution, experienced by women of all nationalities and ages.

While we are quick to judge and condemn stories like the terrible gang rape in Delhi or the discrimination in some Arab countries, we are often much slower to acknowledge issues which are affecting women in public, every day, here in Oman. This week’s feature hopes to raise awareness of the shocking prevalence of stalking, touching and power games females are faced with on a daily basis.

Penny Fray MANAGING EDITOR editor@y-oman.com

Ways to get your Y fix

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi

Online: Visit y-oman.com for even more inspiration.

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eihab Abutaha MANAGING EDITOR Penny Fray SECTIONS EDITOR Kate Ginn

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JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

03

contents JANUARY 16 2014

Your Oman

10

06 The Big Interview

Kim Jepsen 08 Your Oman

Sayyida Mayya Al Said 10 News

Hopes For Missing

Diver End 14 Football Fever

U22’s Rocky Road 15 Oman In 43 Objects

Royal Opera House 16 Gallery

Horsing Around

This Week

Features

20 Street Harassment

Women Hassled

On Oman’s Streets

20

17 Movie Listings

The Adventurer:

The Curse of The

Midas Box 18 This Week

Y’s Birthday Bash

18

Business & Career 24 Success In The City

Success In The Stars

Food & Drink

26 Trend

Ginger 27 Food

Cold Cures 28 Food Review

Pavo Real

Cars & Outdoors

37 Destination

Bantawt Beach 40 Outdoors 30 Fashion Kickboxing

Fashion Fitness 42 Postcard From

32 Trends West Virginia

Hrithik Roshan 44 Y-Fi 34

Health

Rad Robots

Get Fit Fast 46 Car of the Week

Hyundai Elantra 2014

Health & Beauty

27

HOME LIVING

29 Power Prints

Geometric Patterns

45

29

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

CRAZY CARS MEN’S TRENDS BOLLYWOOD FITNESS MUSCAT FESTIVAL

YOUR

OMAN

GREAT DANE

KIM JEP SEN , G E N E R AL M AN AG E R O F MARK A Z A L BA H JA & OAS I S L I F E S T Y LE LLC

Words: Penny Fray

Run through your career in 60 seconds or less: I was 18-years-old when I first started in retail, working as a management trainee in a furniture store in Denmark. Just before my 19th birthday, I was given my first store. I was the youngest member of the team and as such, had to be 20 times better than everyone else. I moved to various shops where there were problems and turned them around. I came to Muscat after working for IDdesign in Dublin. When it closed, I wanted to go somewhere else with the same store. Before that though, I worked for a marketing agency in London, then Bang & Olufsen, which was really cool.

Then I got a call in 2005 to come to Muscat, and actually moved here the following year. I remember it was a Friday the thirteenth but I’ve been very lucky. I love it here in Oman. It is a beautiful country and I really enjoy my job.

Describe your typical day?

Every day is different. That’s what I enjoy about it. I usually start around 9.30am and have hourly meetings (sometimes more). I go to the gym in the afternoon, and then carry on working until about 10pm. My job has a lot of variety because I do all the leasing for the mall and decide what brands come in as well as put the collection together for IDdesign, giving a Middle Eastern perspective for the catalogue.

Managing both the mall and IDdesign must be hard, how do you cope?

The balancing act can be complicated but I enjoy it. The secret?

My PA. What motivates you?

I’m very target driven - I love setting goals and hitting them. I also have a fantastic team. Seeing them get better and better every day, really motivates and inspires me.

If you could wave a magic wand and create your ideal retail space in an instant, what would it be like?

My perfect mall would interact more with customers. It would also be entertaining and different. These are things I’m currently looking at in real life.

What’s your favourite retail space in the world?

It’s not a mall but I love Covent Garden in London for its variety and energy. There’s always something going on to keep you engaged whether it’s a street artist or fair.

What were your last three purchases from Markaz Al Bahja?

I bought loads of kitchen gadgets from Brands For Less, a pair of training shoes from Muscat Sports and a leather sofa from IDdesign. I change my décor quite often – it comes with the industry.

What is your business philosophy?

It’s a Danish saying which roughly translates as ‘if you don’t keep changing and innovating, you’ll become extinct.’

Describe your personality in three words or less: I’m easy-going and always in a good mood but I remain focused.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I go to the gym and have a passion for travel as well as photography.

I also love books.

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JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

News

Gallery

INTERVIEW

The Voice of Oman

Sayyida Mayya Al Said talks about the benefits of ageing gracefully

I

have always been intrigued as to why some, if not most, women get offended when asked how old they are. To satisfy my curiosity, I researched the matter. I wanted to know why it was considered rude in some cultures to ask a woman her age. The results were surprising to say the least. Apparently, a woman’s years are linked to her ‘ticking clock’ - in other words, how fertile she is, which I don’t really see as a bad thing. But what I did find shocking is the insinuation that after a certain age, a woman has no value, as though she has an expiration date. Basically, as a woman ages, she loses value.

Erm, as far as I am concerned all humans have an expiration date and that’s the day our hearts stop beating - but certainly not before. Ageing is a natural part of life so why go against it? Let us not forget that the ‘older’ we are, the more life experience we have and that’s something you can only gain by living. My advice would be: take care of yourself by eating right and keeping fit. It’s not just about looking younger, but feeling and thinking younger too. As the saying goes, age is just a number. What do you think?

Let me know your thoughts.

Next week: ROSIE IN THE DESERT 08

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

correspondence PUT A BRAKE ON JET SKIS Dear Y, At a time when jet skis are becoming such a nuisance and danger to other beach users that they are being banned in other countries, it seemed strange that Y would publish such a one-sided article ‘Breaking The Waves’ (Issue 301). On several visits to the beach both in Muscat and in remote wilderness areas, our family experience on the beach has been spoiled by the noise, pollution and risk of being hit by jet skis. There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy the beach and ocean that are not motorised in Oman such as sailing, paddle boarding, canoeing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, surfing, not to mention swimming. They are all cheaper, safer, non-polluting, and provide healthy exercise.

Unfortunately there is no way around the

fact that a few jet skis provide thrills to a few riders but spoil the beach experience for so many other people. Certainly jet skis have a place as a rescue craft, but beyond that there are too many drawbacks.

I don’t think it is responsible to print such a totally one-sided article, and solely promote the sale of crafts that are an unwanted nuisance to the rest of us.

Daniel Palmer, Muscat Editor’s Response: We’re so sorry to hear about your negative experience of jet skis and it’s true that in the wrong hands, they can be a nuisance. Used properly and with exceptional care and consideration for other people, however, they do have their place, as much as sailing or surfing. Before even getting on a jet ski, people should be briefed about responsible use. We certainly wouldn’t encourage misuse of jet skis.

MOTHERly LOVE Dear Y, A dove made a nest and laid two eggs besides our window, where we regularly water a plant kept there.

On Christmas Day, one little dove hatched and we waited for the other.

During this time, the mother flew away, leaving the male dove to take care of the hatchling and the remaining egg.

The other egg seemed as if it

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

may not hatch and the parents kept it away from the newborn chick.

One day, both the mother and father flew away for some time, leaving the little fledging on it’s own. Suddenly another dove came and injured the small one.

Hearing the cries of the chick, we rushed to the window and saved it.

As a result, the chick is now doing well.

Regards, Nikhil, Govind and Mrs Anju Nikhil, MBD, Muscat

o Dinner for tw at Tomato

test offers at Check out our la talMuscat /InterContinen

SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to info@y-oman.com / @ytabloid / /ytabloid. Impress us and the winning correspondent will receive an InterContinental voucher. Guests may redeem gift vouchers from the hotel’s reception. For the rest of the terms and conditions see voucher.

YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US Debate of the Week We asked:

‘If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?’

Neetha Kyali Pinto I’d like to change the stubbornness in me. This would lead to a change in my approach to things and a more positive attitude. I want the world to change so let it start with me.

Elaine Parry I would change my expectations, as I find it’s too easy to be let down if you have high expectations.

Nisar Mohammed Nothing. Because what ever happens, happens for a good reason.

Vijayasri Parthasarathy To be a stronger woman with self-respect, selfconfidence and self-esteem.

Denizz Tuba Friesl I wish I had followed my dream instead of living my life for someone else who never appreciated my sacrifice.

LETTERS

E-MAILS

Suzie Azzabi My weight.

Syed Bokhari If I was ever to change something about myself it would be my attitude and behaviour, as very often I become harsh and angry towards other people. It would definitely be a great evolution in my life were I able to control myself. May Almighty Allah enable me to do so. Amen.

Razi Al Eit I want to resume my studies and continue until I get a Master’s degree.

Charu Babu I would love to be more educated and get a good job so I can be of more help to my husband and my family and gain more confidence.

FA C E B O O K

TWITTER

Nabila Braganza I wouldn’t make any changes as I have no regrets whatsoever. I was taught to accept everything that life has to offer, good or bad, and that it’s in our hands to make it or break it. With that in mind, and with the most loving and amazing family by my side, what more could I want?

Jerry Aquino I would live a much healthier lifestyle with more exercise and healthy food to keep me in shape.

Khushboo Udeshi Nothing! If I changed something, there wouldn’t be an element of surprise in life. What has happened has happened. The future is full of surprises. I’ll learn to adjust to the way things happen.

Rahul Chakraborty Can I really change anything in my life? Past – of course not! Present - I am living it! Future - I will as usual try my best to do good but again nobody knows! Live life as it comes.

Newriya Kumar A change I want would be resisting my craving towards chocolate cakes.

This Week’s Debate: Corruption: Are we doing enough to fight it? Tell us on Facebook or Twitter.

Soheyla Mae Woodman was spotted reading Y Magazine in Muscat while mummy Sayeh had a coffee

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Just send us your picture with the free Y Magazine or pose with our photographer and we will publish it on this page.

Send it to: info@y-oman.com

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

09

YOUR

OMAN

NEWS

HOPES FOR MISSING DIVER END

The body of a diver who went missing off the coast of Dubai has been recovered from the sea near where he was last seen.

Adel Ait-Ghezala, an Algerian who was raised in Oman, disappeared on January 1 while spearfishing with three friends and his wife Rana, about 20 miles from shore.

He was equipped with a wetsuit, fins, a speargun and a snorkel, but no oxygen tank.

The UAE Coast Guard began a search and volunteers joined in the hunt.

Friends launched a huge social media campaign to find Adel, 35, and raise funds to mobilise rescue efforts with helicopters and boats. More than RO26,000 was raised in just three days, with donations pouring in from all over the world.

A friend who was on a fishing vessel three kilometres south of where the PhD student went missing found Adel’s body on Saturday.

“It is with a heavy heart that we say rest in peace dear Adel,” said a post on a Facebook page set up to update family and friends on the search.

Abdullah al Arian, a close friend of Adel,

added: “He was my best friend and it is hard to picture the world without him. We know he has gone to a better place.”

Adel moved to Oman in 1990 and went to the American British Academy. He was currently studying in Washington but returned to Oman often to visit his mother, a doctor at SQU.  Adel’s mother won our Mum of the Year competition after his brother, Ahmed, wrote a letter telling us about the sacrifices she had made for her sons. We would like to offer our deepest condolences to Mrs Ait-Ghezala and her family.

HEAD OF PDO TENDER COMMITTEE JAILED FOR CORRUPTION An Omani official, the head of the tender committee at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), has been given a three-year prison sentence after being convicted on corruption charges.

The government official was also fined RO600,000 and dismissed from his post. The managing director at Galfar Engineering & Contracting, in Ghala, Muscat, was also jailed for three years and fined the same amount after being charged with complicity to provide a bribe.

A second expatriate manager at Galfar will serve a two-year jail term and pay a fine of RO200,000.

In a case that has shocked Oman’s oil industry, the Omani official is said to have received a RO200,000 bribe from the second Galfar employee to extend the term of a PDO contract in 2011.

In all, six cases are being tried in court in connection with the bribery allegations.

A judgement is due to be passed in two of the other cases on Sunday (19) and January 23.

JOIN Y’S WHAT’SAPP

Design for life Want to see your artwork featured in posters dotted around the country? Here’s your big chance. On March 29th, Earth Hour 2014 will take place and the Environment Society of Oman has announced a competition to design the artwork for its campaign. The winning design will be featured nationally in posters, themed, ‘Our Earth, our Hour’ and will be used to highlight simple every day changes that can make a difference to the environment. All submissions should be emailed in JPEG or PNG format no larger than 2MB to press@eso.org. om, together with contact details and a 200word summary explaining the concept. Closing date January 29, 2014.

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JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

What’s up? Y’s on WhatsApp, that’s what. You can already interact with us through Facebook, Twitter and our website but now we’re extending our social media reach even further.

Everyone who’s anyone is on WhatsApp and Y is no exception.

To join the Y WhatsApp gang, simply add our contact number, 97021648, to your contact list then send us a WhatsApp message with your name, age and #ymagazine.

Share in all the latest news, gossip and stories, and keep in touch with your favourite Y.

STOP PRESS: Expect cooler mornings and nights with temperatures predicted to dip across the Sultanate in the next few days. Low clouds are to blame for the unsettled weather, say forecasters.

YOUR

OMAN

Gallery

Interview

NEWS

PING PONG IN THE SKY

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

What is it? It’s a means of getting from A to B, but with other people.

Think buses, metro, trains, trams, monorails, and, the earliest form, ferries. Some are even pedalling away bravely on public bicycles in some cities.

Who can use it? Normally anybody, as long as they can stump up the Baisa.

In order to make it as popular as possible, it’s usually priced cheaply and embraces convenience.

Why do we need it? Mass transit of a population is seen as a driver of economic growth. People can access goods and services as well as provide them to others once a public transport network is in place. Mass transit is also seen as more energy efficient and therefore more environmentally friendly.

I know what public transport is - Why are you really telling us this? Because our Ministry of Transport and Communications along with the Supreme Committee for Town Planning is soon to formulate a short term and long term strategy for transport, of which parts will be focused on a comprehensive public transport model for the country.

That’s great! What can we expect to see first? One train. At some point.

How else will we get around?

More roads.

But I thought you said public transport system? There’ll be taxis.

Do taxis really constitute a ‘Mass Transit’ system? If you have enough of them.

Do say: ‘How much, Mr Taxi Driver?’

Don’t say: ‘When’s the next bus due?’

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JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

You need great hand-eye coordination to play table tennis – but in this case, a head for heights is also a prerequisite.

Thankfully, Chinese world number one players Long Ma and ShiWen Liu seemed to take it all in their stride.

They were taking part in a special challenge 212 metres (695 feet) above sea level at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai.

The famous helipad at the top of the seven-star hotel was transformed into a table tennis arena.

A WEEK IN PICTURES

Joining the exhilarating game were the 2012 London Olympic men’s and women’s gold medalists, both from China.

Presumably no one had to fetch the ping pong ball if it went over the edge.

Other stars to stage stunts atop the helipad are Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, who both teed off, and Andre Agassi and Roger Federer who played a tennis match there.

HEADLINE STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

World powers reached an agreement to curb Iran’s nuclear programme beginning on January 20

Protestors launch a bid to ‘shutdown’ Bangkok with road blockades in a bid to oust the government

Oman has applied for Unesco World Heritage status for seven sites in the Sultanate, including Ras al Hadd Turtle Reserve

Mumbai’s long-awaited T2 Terminal at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport has finally opened with a peacock inspired design as part of a $2bn revamp

GIVE YOUR WALLS AN inspiring NEW LOOk

Bring new life into your home with Lady Design from Jotun. Choose from our brilliant new collections to create stylish wall designs—each paired to a range of dÊcor options by interior designer Mona Hussein.

pick up the Jotun Lady design book at your nearest Jotun shop. to find out more visit facebook.com/jotunarabia or jotun.com/me

cHanGe tO BriLLiant desiGns cHanGe tO tHe nO. 1 in paints

Gallery

YOUR

OMAN

FOOTY FEVER

It was always going to be a little too early to start planning a victory parade or talk of quarter-finals.

But after the Oman U22 team smashed four past Myanmar in their opening game of the inaugural Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Championship, this week, optimism was high that the boys could go far.

After all, they only needed to finish in the top two to go through to the knockout stages.

Unfortunately, the little Red Warriors were brought back down to earth after losing 1-0 to Jordan in the second game on Monday night at the Sultan Qaboos Stadium, leaving some of the players in tears.

Aside from a bruised pride, it also left them facing a crucial clash on Wednesday evening (15) with the much fancied South Koreans, in which only a win would do to give them any chance.

At the time of going to press, the Oman squad were going through their paces on the field and in the tactician’s room to polish their game plan.

Oman’s team coach, Philippe Burle, was upbeat - if realistic - before the

Interview

News

Winning start but Oman’s U22s faced crunch match to qualify

match, saying: “We hope to put up a brave performance in that vital game.”

The Frenchman was sanguine about their chances, acknowledging that a draw would not be good enough, but adding that he had told his players to go ‘all out’ for victory.

Hopefully a few more fans than the 3,000 who watched the Myanmar game turned out for perhaps the last chance to see the boys in red compete for honour and glory. Tickets were only RO1 for standard entry.

By now, we should know whether our national side has made it through or not.

If they failed to do so, there is still a fest of football for fans to enjoy during the tournament, the first top-level footballing event to be held in the Sultanate. It culminates in the final next Sunday (26) at the Sultan Qaboos Stadium.

Japan and Australia are among the favourites to lift the trophy.

Whatever the outcome, the Oman players will always have that 4-0 thumping of Myanmar to fondly look back on.

Y Editor, Penny Fray, is more likely to be found in a shopping mall or chic restaurant on a weekend.

Instead, she joined Red Warrior fans on the terraces to cheer on the national U22 team

Photos: Abdul Wahid al Hamadani

One look at the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas and Kaka and it’s easy to see why you should follow football. They don’t call it the beautiful game for nothing. (If you don’t get it, do some Google research on these players right now.)

Fit looking guys aside, football is officially the most popular sport on earth, so when asked to attend the Under 22s match against Myanmar, I said ‘no’. I have better things to do with my Saturday evenings than watch a bunch of blokes kick a ball around the field for 90 minutes – like watch paint dry.

Now don’t get me wrong, I understand the rules of the game. You don’t live in Liverpool for 10 years and remain ignorant about things like ‘offside’ and ‘penalty.’ But when I’ve attended matches in the past, it’s usually been under duress or part of corporate hospitality – where puddings are more important than the players. So, when our car whizzed past the VIP car park of the Sultan Qaboos Stadium, I already felt queasy. That fear was realised when I had to trotter for miles in four-inch heels to the cheap seats. (I don’t do trainers or RO1 seats normally!) and then walk into a crowd full of men with a pair of neon Oryx horns. Thankfully, after a few curious stares, all eyes remained firmly on the action on the pitch.

Despite my determination to just sulk and tweet, I found myself being sucked into the excitement of play. Drums banged, voices sang and within 15 minutes I had decided that I ought to become team manager – there would be no missing the goal or going down like a domino if I was in charge.

By half time I was desperate for the toilet and was less than amused to find a whole heap of men in the women’s loo. There were only a handful of women in the stadium, so perhaps they thought it would be slow business there. I pointed to the female icon above the door and ushered everyone out with the help of a very nice Omani man.

By the second half I was fully engrossed and had even structured an improvement strategy in my head. The home side was dominating the match.

Still, they could have played better. When the final whistle went I was a little sorry to leave. It had been a better experience than I had expected and all for as little as RO1. Bargain!

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JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS

10. The Royal Opera House Muscat Commissioned by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Al Said in 2001 and opened on October 12, 2011, the Royal Opera House Muscat plays host to some of the world’s most celebrated names in the performing arts.

Opening to the impassioned vocals of Puccini’s Turandot, conducted by none other than renowned Spanish Tenor Plácido Domingo, the ROHM has dazzled its 1,100 capacity audience in its state-of-the-art concert hall ever since. Not just restricted to the world of opera, this leading centre of culture holds performances of classical music, enchanting Arabic theatre, elegant ballet and captivating world music and dance.

Notable past performers have included Italian Tenor Andrea Bocelli and world famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma. It’s a true architectural and cultural landmark, not just in Muscat, but in Oman and the Middle East.

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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G allery

YOUR

OMAN

Interview

horse and camel expo

News

Horsemanship and heritage at the OIEC three day event

Ahmed al Busaidi presents his photographs to HH Sayyid Thuwainy Al Said

AFC UNDER 22’S

Oman fans cheer on Red Warriors against Jordan

AHLIBANK

Murtada al Lawati

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JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

Launch of Al Ma’ida Dining Program in Muscat

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

Khumba 3D

The Adventurer: The Curse of The Midas Box

PREVIEW

When seventeen-year-old Mariah Mundi’s parents go missing and his younger brother is kidnapped, the young Mundi embarks on a search to discover what’s become of his family.

In a fantastical adventure laden with clandestine secrets, child-stealing monsters and long-lost artifacts, Mariah is led to the dark and mysterious Prince Regent Hotel.

It’s here that he starts to learn about Otto Luger (Sam Neil) and his quest to get his hands on the Midas Box. Only by discovering the box himself can Mariah learn of his family’s whereabouts.

But he’s not alone. Michael Sheen

plays Captain Jack Charity of the British Bureau of Antiquities who aids the young adventurer.

Sheen’s venture into a fantasy role is quite different from his more usual exploits, such as Frost/Nixon.

However, the role never seems to fit him comfortably.

Nevertheless, it’s an enjoyable enough family adventure whose modest budget and production yields surprising results. It’s also based on the series of books by G.P Taylor, of which this is intended to be the first box office installment. So the good news is that if you like this one, there should be more on the way.

August: Osage County Tracy Letts’ successful play spawned this dark comedy-drama featuring a host of big names that have led to accusations of cluttering a film with a gratuitous smattering of stars in search of Oscars.

The film tells the tale of the Weston family women reuniting following the death of the father, played fleetingly by Sam Shepard. Forked tongues and clashing personalities make this a movie that’s probably not going to pick you up. However, with the cast giving their all, it’s certainly not going to leave you with any memories of wooden performances either.

A young Zebra is born into a herd, but there’s just one problem; little Khumba is only half covered in stripes. At a time of drought, the new arrival is blamed by his superstitious family for the failing rains and has no choice but to set off on a quest to find a safe watering hole in order to gain acceptance.

It’s the usual affair of a young, rejected member of society teaming up with a colourful mix of animal characters, and in which the South African production company remind us that it’s okay to be different. Children will be entertained by bouncy characters, and

strong actors such as Laurence Fishburne and Liam Neeson just about rescue the script. Be warned though: Madagascar, this is not.

Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones Jesse (Andrew Jacobs) finds that his neighbour has been murdered but more worrying for the young Californian, is that there are photos of him in her apartment and she practiced black magic. Discovering that he’s subject to this witch’s curse, the increasingly homicidal Jesse seeks help in trying to put an end to the demon that’s slowly taking possession of his soul.

It’s never going to reinvent what is becoming a tired franchise or, for that matter, keep alive the increasingly tired ‘lost camera footage genre’ but if you’re a fan, this will tick most of the boxes.

Bollywatch Zinda Bhaag

Okay, it’s not Bollywood, it’s from Pakistan, but the slick cinematography of this Punjabi film beautifully frames the story of three young men desperate to leave their native Lahore and venture out into the world.

Believing that the West is the best place to make their fortune, the three central characters, Khaldi, Taambi and Chitta, start to risk everything to make it there.

While the film is a poignant tale about the friendship of young males, it’s the film’s gentle questioning of concepts such as luck and success that provide the real worth. It’s also a valuable insight into the murky world of illegal immigration.

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E Join Women’s Guild Oman for their annual croquet morning at the British Ambassador’s residence from 9am to noon, followed by lunch at the National Hospitality Institute, Wadi Kabir from 12:30 pm onwards for a charge of RO15.

Visit www.womensguildoman.com for more details.

HAMMER TIME

Jan 21

THIS

WEEK

What to hear.

J A N U A R Y

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Movies

POWER SCHMOOZING B2B in association with the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel will provide a unique opportunity to network with members of the European, Australian, American and British Business Groups and Omani partners. Tickets cost RO25 including live cooking stations and selected beverages, and can be purchased at the Bank of Beirut HQ or via the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel.

Jan 22

The event replaces the EPBG (European Persons Business Group) dinner normally held in January. For more info, go to www.back2businessoman.com

BIRTHDAY BASH Growing up is hard. Celebrating each year is the fun part. That’s why Y magazine is throwing a birthday Tweetup at the John Barry Bar at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel from 7-9pm. There will be cake, ‘selfies’ and lots of retro fun.

To get on the limited guest list, tweet #YBIRTHDAY @ytabloid or email info@y-oman.com by Jan 23.

Remember – the early bird catches the first invite.

What to do.

What to see.

Gallery

26

Jan

Jan

Jan 24

23 THE SOLOIST The Silk Route Ensemble is a diverse group of talented artists led by the 15 Grammy award winning cellist, Yo-Yo Ma. The gifted performers will entertain at the Royal Opera House at 7.30 pm. To know more about the show, visit www.rohmuscat.org.om

BURN, BABY BURN

HOT TO TROT

The Caledonian Society of Oman invites you to join their annual Burns Night in honour of Scottish poet, Robert Burns at 7pm at the InterContinental Hotel Gardens. For more information e-mail caledoniansocietyofoman@hotmail.co.uk

Jan 18

Jan 24

STRINGS ATTACHED Award winning music conductor Gustavo Dudamel, along with the Simón Bolivar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela, will captivate the audience with their melodious music at the Royal Opera House Muscat at 7.30 pm. Visit www.rohmuscat.org.om for details.

Latin Dance Muscat will hold the New Absolute Beginners batch from 5 – 6pm at Hotel Muscat Holiday. There is a studio charge of RO2 per class, per person and a one-time membership fee of RO5. To register, contact +968 96148863 or info@LatinDanceMuscat.com

DUNE TO THE MAX The Guide Oman is bringing back Extreme Desert Crossing. And this time it’s from Al Kamil to Al Gaina.

The event will span over two days and there are new tracks, big challenges and greater adventure to look forward to.

Contact Rmayston@theguideoman.com or call +968 98038820.

Jan 23-25 JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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STANDING UP TO

ET RE ST HARASSMENT Stalking, explicit comments, sexist remarks, leering and assault. Most women will face harassment on the street or elsewhere at some point in their lives. But should we make a stand or resign ourselves to it? Kate Ginn and Penny Fray investigate

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A

s National Day celebrations change a crowd into a seething mass of bodies, the evening is about to take a nasty turn for one female reveller.

Dismounting from the back of a motorbike, she clearly just wants to join the party atmosphere. Within seconds, however, she is surrounded by men, pushing forward, grabbing at her hair and clothes, in an almost frenzy.

The women’s expression is one of abject fear, terror flicking across her face.

This whole scene was captured on video during Oman’s National Day festivities last year and quickly circulated on social media sites and shared on WhatsApp. The sight of her being molested on the streets of Muscat put the public harassment of women back into the spotlight.

It makes for very uncomfortable viewing, as one Omani woman who saw the video says, “It’s horrible as a woman to watch. You feel sorry for her and wish that you had been there to help her.”

What she says next is alarming.

“While not as extreme as this video, we get troubled every day by men in some way.

“Men try to give you their numbers and follow you home in their cars. I dress in an abaya and scarf but still it doesn’t stop them.

“Please write something about it so people know. We are tired of it.”

Oman is not, of course, unique.

Women living in many countries, from Canada to India and Australia to Yemen, endure harassment on a daily basis.

And research by women’s rights organisations have shown that the phenomenon is on the rise.

A study by Omani journalist Maysa El Hanie in 2009 revealed that 11 per cent of women in the Sultanate face harassment in different ways, whether verbal, physical, or in remarks tarnishing their reputation.

At least 56 per cent of Omani women working in offices experienced verbal harassment, she also found.

“Women in Oman think a million times before they report sexual harassment to the police, whether they are married or not,” says Marian Abdallah El Nahwai, an Omani researcher in women’s and children’s affairs.

“Their reluctance to report harassment stems from a fear of the social stigma.”

Society often accepts street harassment as a normal part of women’s experiences in a public space, often trivialised or portrayed as flattering to the victim in some way.

But as Sherifa Zuhur, director of the US-based Institute of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Strategic Studies, states: “It is not a banal or trivial matter.

“Sexual harassment is linked to other forms of discrimination and violence against women in complex ways.”

Certainly, when Y spoke to a selection of women, both Omani and other nationalities, what emerged was a weary acceptance that street harassment would be a part of their everyday lives.

“I wear an abaya at work because I work around men but I still get comments and stares,” says one woman.

“If you walk on your own during the day, it’s a problem. You get approached in shopping centres.

“You cannot even make eye contact with a man or it will be taken the wrong way, as a come on.”

There are many cases of women in Oman being ogled, touched and treated disrespectfully on a daily basis. It’s an invisible problem. How many women go to the police when they’ve been followed from the mall to their car or had unwanted advances?

There’s the old argument that being given a phone number is harmless and that women should be flattered but for some, it’s more serious.

“One man driving once followed my friend and I in our car from Al Khuwair to Muttrah. We were terrified,” says another woman.

“I had to drive down side roads to get rid of him.”

Which brings us to what motivates men to do it in the first place.

“When a man whistles at you or makes a suggestive comment, he’s saying ‘I have the right to sexually appraise you’,” says Laura Bates, founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, a website that responds to the verbal and physical abuse women have suffered while out and about.

Like it or not, most women will experience some form of sex-based harassment on the Sultanate’s streets.

It has nothing to do with age, race, ethnicity, class, place or time.

Having the backing of proper legislation would help, not just to stem the tide of harassment but encourage victims to come forward. Women need protection and consistently enforced punishments for offenders.

The law in relation to street harassment is a nebulous area, however.

While sexual misconduct is illegal in the Sultanate, it’s unclear whether this covers harassment in the street.

Y’s calls to the Royal Oman Police on

this issue were not answered.

But as one woman, who has been repeatedly harassed in the streets in Muscat, tells Y: “If I am followed by a man in a car, I can write down his registration, and give it to the police.

“The police get his number from their records and call him and he denies doing it. Then what?

“The same if a man gives me his telephone number and I report him to the police, he will just deny it. What can I do?”

What is clear is that a more multipronged approach is required to address the issue including education and community-based campaigns.

Campaigns to help women reclaim the right to safe streets have been launched in other countries, with varying degrees of success.

In the Middle East region, both Egypt and Yemen, which have exceptional levels of female harassment, have taken steps to fight back.

To provide its women members with a safer riding experience, the Cairo Cycler’s Club (CCC) has put in place, Harassmap, a system for reporting incidences of sexual harassment via SMS messaging and plotting a map.

Around 83 per cent of women in Egypt claim to have been harassed in one way or another at some point in their lives.

In February 2010, a Sana’a-based group launched a series of public awareness campaigns in response to figures, which suggested that a staggering 99 per cent of Yemeni women and girls have encountered sexual harassment on the streets.

There’s also the Twitter takeover of #shoutingback. The Everyday Sexism Project started the hashtag.

Sara Ghanem, activist and member of the National Dialogue Conference, says: “Women do not require an escape from the problem, they require a solution.

They should be safe anywhere.”

The core problem, though, is that society discourages discussion of harassment incidents, particularly in Arab countries. Many prefer to pretend that no problem exists, while others will talk about the issue but only in secret.

And until the issue is out in the open and freely spoken about, it will remain just that – a secret.

Their reluctance to report harassment stems from a fear of the social stigma

JAN 16 -22 / ISSUE 303

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IN THEIR OWN WORDS PENNY’S TALE

A

t 17, a manager twice my age locked his restaurant door and made an inappropriate suggestion – he soon opened it again when I told him that my Dad was a police officer.

I’m now 37 and it still happens. Here in Muscat, I’ve endured the usual bout of being followed and having phone numbers thrust on me.

Most of the time it’s harmless but occasionally, it’s frightening – like the time I returned to Muscat Airport to be trailed by some guy with his phone camera. It was summer, I was hot, jet-lagged and couldn’t find my car, so I wasn’t best amused when I found him photographing me at close quarters. I told him in no uncertain terms to leave me alone but he kept shoving his phone in my face and taking photos all the way to my car. I bent my head and ran, furious that my personal space should be violated in such a way. I threatened to call the ROP to no avail.

I would have called the police but it seemed so trivial in the grand scheme of things. And that’s the problem – street harassment is regarded as an inconvenience rather than a blatant case of power playing and bullying.

SAMIYA’S STORY

B

eing hassled on the street of Muscat is no different, I imagine, from anywhere else in the world – and wearing an abaya is no barrier to it.

There are strange, lewd and disrespectful people out there. I guess, one of the worst instances of street harassment that I’ve encountered happened in Muttrah a year or so ago. I had just parked up and a man approached me from behind. I turned round thinking he wanted change for the machine, instead he lifted up his dishdasha and exposed himself. I was more shocked than frightened, and I jumped into my car and drove away. I didn’t call the police because I felt embarrassed.

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We asked Y’s women readers on Facebook if they had ever suffered harassment on the street.

We were overwhelmed with responses. Here are just a few (we have removed their names for privacy): “I had a bad experience when I had to go to school from Ruwi to Darsait in a taxi. The person had the guts to touch me while driving.

I remained quiet as I didn’t know what to do.”

“On one particularly bad occasion I did end up at the police station with my husband and the man in question was arrested and I was asked how long I would like him to go to jail for.

Although I didn’t send him to jail I was happy that the ROP took my complaint seriously.”

“I’ve seen men looking at girls in abayas like they were meat and they were wolves. It’s not the clothes, it’s the men and the lack of consequences for their behaviour.”

‘Bad experiences seem to happen to me regularly and I must add that it is not just men from one particular country so no one culture is to blame.

My experiences vary from being physically groped to followed home by men, filmed with videophones and people taking photos. Most people would assume this is because the women dress in a provocative way and ask for attention but I can assure you that it is not the case.

Some of these men need to be educated that women are not a piece of meat to openly manhandle and try to take advantage of. Even just following women home in their car is not acceptable; it is intimidating especially for those

living alone. Sadly this one happens a lot to myself and my friends.”

“Some guy liked the look of me from his bus whilst driving past, parked and rang my doorbell/ banged on the door for the best part of half an hour. I have been told to take photographs of these people to show the police, but does it help?”

“All the time. Been to the airport lately? A friend of mine was driven into the middle of the desert by a cab driver. She luckily got out and stopped a car driving by who took her home.”

“I realised years ago when I first came here, that if you wear anything other than Arab/pan Arab clothes, you’re likely to be harassed more - cars honking, stopping by the side and random comments. Men will try to touch you, follow your car. Once you blend in, it’s less bothersome.

Having said that, no one should be teased/harassed or molested because of the way they dress or look. Unfortunately that happens all too often here.”

“I wonder if a single woman would be assisted by the ROP, or if they only take the situation seriously if there is a male relative/husband present? Taxi drivers are my pet peeve too. Not all of them- I don’t want to be unfair and discriminate. Some of them are really respectful and professional. Again, it’s about proper taxis with a central office and numbers for complaints in the taxi with a meter. There is harassment of women all around the world but I’ve definitely noticed it a lot more here, unfortunately.”

BUSINESS & CAREER

FIND OUT YOUR FUTURE

Celebrity intuitive and astrologer Arianrhod will be answering live questions on twitter via @ytabloid on Sunday between 1-2pm.

Send in your query with the hashtag #yastro

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Trend

Networking

Minute Mentoring

Trend

Networking

Minute Mentoring

Success In The Stars Astrology may have been dismissed as a load of mumbo jumbo in the past, so why are more and more corporations and CEOs turning to an age-old science for business advice? Penny Fray investigates

A

strology is no longer the preserve of confused teenage girls trying to divine their love match or crusty, crystal wearing types who smell of incense.

Today, it’s increasingly seen as the professional’s road map to success.

High flyers are using stars and planets to predict financial changes, hire staff and understand clients.

“Astrology is about cycles, similar to those found in the financial markets,” says Muscat based astrologer Arianrhod.

“There are clearly auspicious times and challenging ones to do business. Knowing when to begin gives you the best chance of success.”

The fact that there’s no hard or unequivocal evidence to back the claims doesn’t matter to most fans.

“They help me put my life and career decisions into perspective,” reveals one thirty-something director from Seeb.

Another claims it’s a form of business counselling, saying that it helps clarify things when they’re stressed or under pressure to make the right professional decision without the requisite study or analysis. One person I spoke to even admitted that they recruited according to a person’s date of birth.

But before you roll your eyes and sigh sceptically, more people than you think are dipping into the mysterious art to get ahead.

According to a Reader’s Digest survey, more than half of us now believe in powers such as premonitions and universal guidance, while another poll showed one in seven people having consulted an astrologer or intuitive in the past four years.

“I’ve had some really surprising people come to see me for advice,” says Arianrhod. “I think most turn to astrology because they’re impatient for answers and reassurance. And as long as they don’t rely on just the positioning of the planets to get ahead, there’s little harm in it. In fact, combined with other components such as financial planning, marketing and digital strategising, it often gives an extra advantage. It’s been used by some of history’s most famous figures and was once considered a mainstream science used by kings and generals before it was denigrated during the Enlightenment era as irrational.”

So, which signs should you look out for to succeed? Well, according to the expert, it helps to know when Mercury is in retrograde. In 2014, these dates are Feb 6 to March 5 and June 7 to July 1.

“In simple terms, when Mercury (associated with communications and contracts) is in the wrong position, there is a much greater chance of misunderstandings and slow progress,” explains Arianrhod. “Likewise, watch the moon. It will prove best to start a new business initiative just after any new moon. As it wanes, take stock of your progress and be prepared to make the necessary adjustments.”

WHAT’S THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? • ARIES: Independent and assertive, you were born to lead. Your energy and enthusiasm always ignite new projects, campaigns and ideas.

• TAURUS: You have natural business acumen. You are also persistent and reliable enough to build for the long term. You’re no trend follower.

• GEMINI: A natural raconteur, you’ll do particularly well in the fields of media, sales and marketing. You dazzle with words.

• CANCER: You may seem a little reticent at first but you are actually a very tenacious, empathetic and effective leader.

• LEO: Creative, confident and bossy, your natural exuberance catches peoples’ attention. But it’s your organisational skills that will really impress.

• VIRGO: A clever perfectionist, you actually enjoy spending hours doing research and reading books to hone your skills.

• LIBRA: Your strengths include networking, making connections and getting creative collaborations off the ground.

• SCORPIO: Wow! You’ll commit wholeheartedly to a project and put body and soul into ensuring its success.

• SAGITTARIUS: Confident, charming and oozing optimism, you take advantage of opportunities that come your way.

• CAPRICORN: No stranger to hard work, you’re a traditionalist willing to put in the hours to ensure you rise to the top.

• AQUARIUS: Always looking for the next big thing, you are a technically savvy maverick. Your risks usually pay off though.

• PISCES: Your sensitivity and empathic nature means you often feel at one with other people and in tune with the Zeitgeist. You are a visionary.

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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food and drink

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Trend

New Restaurant GINGERED UP

Reviews

Our office assistant Maksud always recommends ginger when team Y struggle through the hellish realms of a vicious cold. His concoction of green tea, sugar and fresh ginger nearly always cures us. Now science is discovering what Omanis have known for centuries – that ginger has unique immune boosting properties.

TREND New Restaurant

News

CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SNIFFLES Feeling hot and bothered lately? It could be love but more likely it’s flu. Penny Fray goes in search of a cure after catching a cold

A

cold of doom has been doing the rounds in our office for months. I managed to swerve it over Christmas with a combination of willpower and pills. Then, just as I thought I had been lucky, it floored me. With aching muscles and a mucus-filled face, I slugged through the working day. If I had been a man, I would have argued that I had pneumonia and taken a duvet day or two. But rest wasn’t an option. I needed a cure.

And you know what those ubiquitous old wives say: feed a cold, starve a fever. So Operation Recovery involved food – and lots of it.

First on the list was chicken soup. With neither my mother or boyfriend available to make me vats of homemade broth with the added ingredient of love, I had to rely on Al Fair for a can of Waitrose’s finest.

Science has recently confirmed what my ancestors knew sans Bunsen burners - chicken soup does indeed help congestion and body aches. The hot steam from the soup may be its chief advantage, say doctors, although laboratory studies claim the ingredients also have anti-inflammatory effects. Realistically, any hot drink may have similar soothing results. So, step forward Maksud, our office assistant, with his miracle concoction. It contains fresh ginger, green tea and sugar – but for added effectiveness, add honey, lemon and cloves. It may not taste that great and it’s a pain to make when you’re feeling under the weather – but it works. Within 12 hours of taking this natural remedy, I felt oodles better. According to doctors, drinking plenty of fluids is still the best advice to ease the discomfort of a common cold. Water, in particular, helps lubricate the mucous membranes and keeps you hydrated. Spicy foods may also clear sinuses.

Curries are particularly good for you as a lot of the ingredients - ginger, garlic and chilies - are well known for their anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. In fact, a national survey commissioned by the Consumer Health Information Centre found that eating curries was seen as a common way to treat colds. The survey also revealed that sufferers who opted for the cure said symptoms like a blocked nose cleared up and they felt much better after eating the spicy dish.

Foods rich in Vitamins A and C are also widely recommended. They include oranges, kiwi and tomatoes for Vitamin C, and sweet potatoes, spinach and broccoli for Vitamin A. Just don’t over do it because an overdose of vitamins is just as bad as consuming too little. You'll get a dodgy tummy and worse!

Another surprising suggestion to my diet included quinoa (pronounced keen-wa). It’s commonly referred to as a grain, but it's actually a seed that can be cooked.

Nutritionists have been raving about it recently because it’s one of the few ‘complete proteins’ of the plant world, meaning it supplies all of the essential amino acids that are found in meat, poultry or fish, such as lysine, which helps with tissue repair. I was told to swap my regular, wholewheat bread with a multigrain loaf loaded with quinoa, bulgur and millet. It was a bit too much of a faff to find (and who wants to bake their own bread when they feel like they're dying?) Far easier to buy a packet of pumpkin seeds packed with vitamins, amino acids and minerals, including zinc. In case you haven’t heard - zinc is the new Vitamin C in that it helps the immune system by acting as an antioxidant and minimising damage to cell membranes from free radicals. More importantly, these little gems are delicious alone or sprinkled in yogurt, oatmeal or cereal.

Do you have your own culinary cure to share? Tweet at @ytabloid with the hashtag #coldcure JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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food and drink

Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews Info Box

Pavo Real Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos Centre Tel: 24602603 Dinner for two (including soft drinks): RO32

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

LATIN LOW

VERDICT

6

:

10

Goo filled d for mo ente fun and cktail rt c than ainmen heesy treat a gastro t rather .O no mea ne of the mic ls I’v w e had orst Mus cat. in

Penny Fray found a not so perfect slice of Mexico in Muscat

M

ost of us know the two sides of Mexican food: the cheesy Tex-Mex meals that can fill a hole when you’re hungry and the fresh, zingy, authentic dishes devoured in cult restaurants like Wahaca in London. Unfortunately, Pavo Real falls into neither camp, serving the sort of retro slop you can only really enjoy if you’ve had a few tipples.

Okay, maybe that’s a bit harsh but I had high expectations of this place and they were cruelly dashed when my main course was delivered. I don’t know if my dining companion and I were unlucky because several friends had recommended it with gusto.

“You must go,” said one South American acquaintance. “It’s my favourite place in the whole neighbourhood. It’s full of fun and friendly people.”

I made a mental note, and after a thrilling day at the royal races in Seeb, decided to give it a go. Despite the fact it wasn’t karaoke or Wild West night and the band wasn’t anything special, the place was pretty packed. It must be really good, I thought.

The evening started on a positive note with a welcoming waiter and a complementary bowl of taco chips and super spicy salsa. In fact, all the ingredients were there for a great night – live music, congenial atmosphere, colourful décor and crunchy crisps. Plus, the menu featured firm favourites like burritos, enchiladas and fajitas.

My dining buddy and I decided to share a mixed platter for starters, so we could sample a selection of spicy goodies without over-facing ourselves.

The Classical Deluxe dish came fairly quickly and had a generous selection of wrapped meats and vegetables as well as amazing quesadillas. Argh! If only we had stopped there – but no, we went on to have a chicken fajita and a cheesy burrito. And that was our mistake

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because neither dish was anywhere near as good as the starter.

The fajitas’ requisite sizzle went out the moment it was placed in my mouth. The colours were as dull as the flavour.

Meanwhile, my dining companion looked at her meal with absolute horror. It was brown mush on top of a soggy tortilla with a bunny-shaped side of salad. She took one mouthful and made mock gagging noises. Thinking she was being a tad over dramatic, I offered to swap dishes. It was mushy but I managed a few mouthfuls before giving up. The main problem lay with the sloppy texture rather than the taste.

Of course, it wasn’t the worst Mexican dining experience I’ve encountered. That honour goes to a restaurant in Cabo San Lucas, which blinded me with food poisoning. I was on a boat, it went dark, I blinked several times and nothing happened.

Fortunately, I was on a five-star cruise and a team of medics whipped me off the dinghy and straight into the ship’s hospital. The next three days were subsequently spent on the toilet, drinking a cocktail of rehydration drinks. I swore I would never eat Mexican food again but broke my promise after being tempted by my mother’s chili dish six months later.

Anyway, our almost full plates were whipped away with not even an enquiry as to why we had barely touched a morsel. Desperate for a palette cleanser, we ordered a fried ice cream to share. Again, it had that unappetising brown tinge to it. Surprisingly though, it tasted rather good with sweet, creamy ice cream in a warm, cinnamon flavoured pod. Slicing the cherry decoration in half seemed needlessly mean though.

All in all, it was a below average dinner that I won’t be hurrying back to experience. But never say never because I am a little partial to cheesy entertainment like karaoke.

INTERIORS

Trends

Space

POWER PRINTS

Spring 2014 is all about clashing geometric patterns, discovers Penny Fray

A

s much as we love traditional prints in stripes and florals, there is certainly room in our lives for something a bit bolder. Enter geometric patterns with a distinct dash of the cult TV progamme Mad Men. Taking a cue from 1960s pop art, this season’s interiors embrace optical patterns in both upholstery and wall coverings. Layer statement prints to create depth and drama. Other trends include cut velvet fabrics, modular furniture and Lucite. You read it here first!

This striking, black and white tray is made from laminated birch veneer and was illustrated by Cecilia Pettersson. Available from Cloudberry Living for RO18

Mixing monochrome patterns is an easy way to embrace this season’s statement look. Furniture and accessories (above) from Marks & Spencer

The Tess Chair’s sharp-lined frame, based on a grid form, creates a bold graphic aesthetic. RO246 from Camerich

Who could resist this isometric optical illusion inspired cushion from online company Quirk & Rescue – RO37

Patterned rugs are an easy way to update a room. This one is made in India and can be bought from My Little Square for RO20. You’ll find similar pieces at The Home Centre

This dark brass industrial multiarm light pendant from Alexander & Pearl oozes retro cool. RO127.

Global shipping available.

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

FIT FOR FASHION

Sports luxe has been about for the past few seasons but with so many designers embracing the athletic look, consider spring 2014 as its official coming out party. Think everything from racer tanks and track pants at DKNY to technical t-shirts and workout gear constructed from high-tech fabrics at Stella McCartney. Even Vera Wang dabbled in sport chic with crop tops, mesh and zip-up jackets.

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Health

Beauty

fashion

GET YOUR SWEAT ON Now that your New Year’s resolution to get in shape is finally underway, it’s time to get serious about what to wear, says Penny Fray

Y

ou’re not exactly a lettuce munching, Lycra loving gym bunny – and monopurpose wardrobes aren’t really your ‘thing’. To you, flexibility means wearing your yoga gear after class without looking like an overweight Gwyneth Paltrow or a misplaced hippy.

Well, this season you’re in luck because the latest fit-kits are so covetable that you’ll want to wear them outside class.

A new year means a new you – so ditch those manky old sweatpants and be prepared to replace them with high-tech tracksuits or cashmere leisurewear that look almost too good to sweat in. In fact, as fitness and fashion collide, sharpening up your gym image has never been easier thanks to hyper hip collections from the likes of Stella McCartney, Alexander Wang and Lucas Hugh. Consider wearing a grey, slouchy sweatshirt with a fitted skirt or leather pants to play down the sporty edge - or dress up a pair of sweatpants with stilettoes and a blazer. Versatility is the name of the game this season - and to win, you need to go for seasonal colours like dove grey, white and powder pink.

But it’s not just about fitness clothes. Fuel bands – those bangles that remind you to exercise more – have just got hipper as Nike launches a limited edition in rose gold. When it comes to gym bags, go for something big and slouchy like this one by Stella McCartney (pictured). Meanwhile, American Apparel has some really rad ones in metallic blue.

And for your feet, go for style as well as substance with Nike Air or Adidas.

Channel sports chic or just plump for plain and comfortable in Alexander Wang’s fleecelined sweatpants.

In a darker shade of grey, the cuffed ankles will look as cool with slip-on sneakers as they will with metallic stilettos. RO102

The classic white t-shirt should be in every capsule wardrobe. This one from GAP offers great quality, fit and price. From RO6

Elevate your street style with Nike’s silver leather ‘Air Max’ sneakers. This ‘tier zero’ pair is from the brand’s premium collection.

Wear yours outside the gym with a luxe sweatshirt and mini skirt. RO96

Limited edition Fuel Band, RO87, Nike.com

Adidas by Stella McCartney’s generously sized bag is printed with a playful sky-blue, black and white leopard print. The effortless, lightweight taffeta fabric makes this multi-pocketed holdall perfect for gym, work or travel. RO57

FIT KIT

Penny’s guide to workout clothes that will take you from the gym to the school run and beyond:

I love this cropped length top from Sweaty Betty with its draping and off-the-shoulder effect. Its drawstring waist can be pulled for a more fitted feel. The lightweight, brushed jersey cotton fabric is super-soft to the touch. RO34

Tune into Marc by Marc Jacobs’ much-loved playful aesthetic with these pink acetate ear buds. This noise-isolating pair is printed with cute cats and graphic stripes.

From RO20

1 Spring sportswear is all grown up, fusing downtown cool with a hint of uptown polish.

For an haute take on varsity classics, pair a jacket with a pencil skirt and the season’s ubiquitous backpack. 2 Bored of last year’s PJ trouser? Me too. But you don’t have to forgo the comfort of big bottoms just yet. Be inspired by Prada’s slouchy track pants in silk.

Wear with a fitted t-shirt and blazer. 3 As discussed in last week’s fashion pages, mesh is everywhere this season. So make sure you play peek-a-boo with sheer panelled pieces.

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

BEAUTY

Fashion

Health

BOLLYWOOD VOGUE Screen hunk Hrithik Roshan launches a new online leisurewear label. Shishira Sreenivas finds out more

H

rithik Roshan’s rise to fame as a Bollywood superstar is widely known. The multi-talented actor has entertained millions of fans in India and around the world with his impeccable acting and dancing skills through blockbuster movies like Kaho Na… Pyaar Hai, Krrish and Jodha Akbar, to name a few.

Now, the famed actor, who has just turned 40, has decided to venture into a field that no other Indian star has attempted.

Several celebrities have lent their association to fragrances and other franchises - but Roshan is treading a new path. He is taking his first strides into entrepreneurship by launching his own lifestyle brand called ‘HRx.’ The ‘HR’ stands for ‘Hrithik Roshan’ while the X, which is the brand’s logo, stands for ‘Extreme.’

Featuring comfortable casuals and leisure sportswear, the range is designed to epitomise Roshan’s sartorial glamour and flair, which are known around the world.

The clothes are cool yet wearable and are guaranteed to appeal to the youth market of Oman. But it’s not just about the clothes. According to Roshan, the brand also hopes to inspire and motivate people: “This brand celebrates all of us who want to keep on pushing to the highest degree, and laugh in the face of adversity,” he says.

“Whether it is education, work, sports or fitness – there is no reason why we can’t be the best.”

Considering his career trajectory, this is certainly a philosophy

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he personally embraces.

Roshan made his screen debut at the age of six when his grandfather, famous director-producer J. Om Prakash, secretly filmed him dancing spontaneously and included the footage in the hugely successful Aasha (1980).

His first leading role (in Kaho Na… Pyaar Hai) earned him two awards, including Best Actor.

From there, he has gone on to establish himself as a leading contemporary actor of Indian Cinema and the small screen – he became the highest paid Bollywood actor in television for appearing in the reality show, Just Dance.

His smouldering good looks have garnered as much attention as his acting skills, along with his sense of style and keen interest in fashion. His fanbase is huge – his Twitter account has almost five million followers.

Exceed Entertainment, a multiplatform management company that has managed Roshan’s previous endorsements, has been working on the brand HRx with him for the past three years along with another brand extension agency, The Wild West Group.

Brand HRx entered the market through the popular online shopping website, Myntra.com which also manufactures the brand.

To know more about Brand HRx and how you can get your hands on some HRx merchandise, watch this space as Y brings an exclusive interview with the superstar.

BEAUTY

Fashion

Health

TREND ALERT THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS Guess what? Not only has cult beauty brand Ciaté managed to purge the somewhat toxic smell of nail remover, it has also replaced it with the sweet scent of chocolate in a newly formulated range that includes white (right), dark, orange and milk chocolate.

The gentle formula is packed with Vitamins B5 and E to nourish, while the no-ammonia formula makes it extra kind to nails. Once dried, it leaves behind a wonderful scent of your favourite sweet, making removing your nail varnish seem a bit less of a chore. Better still, there are no calories.

Get a bottle online or at a stockist near you.

STYLE COUNSEL

BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

Q

Dear Barbra, I am five months pregnant and seem to be growing bigger by the day. My usual clothes no longer fit me and I am desperate for some stylish pieces to take me through the rest of my pregnancy. There aren’t a lot of options here in Muscat. I don’t work but I still have a busy day, between doing the school run, charity work and social events, so I want something easy but elegant - without breaking the bank. Jess, Muscat.

A

Dressing up to accommodate a growing bump brings a new set of wardrobe challenges.

Thankfully, gone are the days of smocks and prissy pussycat bows. Welcome to 21st century maternity wear, where women are happily embracing their bump, as they should. After all, this is a time to rejoice, not politely fade away. Nevertheless, most of us, regardless of shape or size, wonder what to wear in our second and third trimester. There are heaps of considerations – from comfort to style and cost to versatility. It’s a sartorial minefield that isn’t made any easier if choice is limited.

My main advice is not to spend wildly on something you’re not going to keep long-term. After six months of constant wear, get rid of it!

The truly brave and fashion forward are into Lycra because it stretches with you, and washes and dries in hours. My daughter-in-law took this route and looked amazing.

Buy a pair of black leggings a size bigger than you needed before, then mix with long ruched t-shirts in plain colours.

Throw on a colourful scarf and voilà - you have your everyday look without breaking the bank. Gap, H&M, Splash and Red Tag are all great for this. For more dressy events, find your nearest Indian garment supplier. There are loads in Muscat, especially in the Ruwi area. There, you’ll find comfortable, pure cotton kaftan tops in whatever style you prefer - sequined, embellished, long or short-sleaved for around RO5-10. During my pregnancies, many moons ago, they took me through long hot summers - and it was painless gifting them to friends after the birth, as they cost so little.

If you have any fashion questions for Barbra, email info@y-oman.com tweet @ytabloid

Barbra Young, a former designer and retailer We love these easy to wear pieces from H&M's Conscious collection. When you are carrying a child, their future environment means something. Prices from RO16

or

Smarten up your daywear with designer accessories that you can use after your pregnancy. The slim dimensions of Kotur’s clutch make it easy to carry or slide into your favorite tote. RO196

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

BEAUTY

Fashion

H ealth

Get Fit Fast

In an era of packed diaries and hectic schedules, could ‘Fast Exercise’ be the answer? Asks Tom Robertson

P

lainly aware that people’s lives are increasingly busy and that leisure time is in short supply, scientists and fitness experts are peddling a new approach to getting in shape: Fast Exercise. It’s a regime developed by Dr Michael Mosley, the same health guru and British journalist who brought us the ‘Fast Diet’. With the promise of rapid results it’s no surprise that both his diet and regime are gathering a vast following.

Put simply, the concept of Fast Exercise is to invest just a relatively short amount of time each day into exercising - but doing so intensively. It’s about putting in maximum effort for minimum

My routine: How to lose a paunch

Susceptible to gorging myself rotten during the weekends and frequent snacking in the office, over the last week I attempted to stave off a rapidly developing tummy by embarking on a slightly-adapted version of Dr Michael Mosley’s ‘How to lose your paunch’.

My week: Sunday: A 20-minute run that

included five 20-second sprints, running at 85-90 per cent exertion.

Monday: 30-second sets of intensive squat thrusts, star jumps, burpees, jump squats, lateral jumps, step-ups and highknee running with a ten second rest between sets.

Tuesday: One 18-minute run consisting of 034

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time or embarking on ‘High Intensity Training’ (HIT), as it’s already known. It’s not so much how long you’re exercising for, but how hard you’re pushing yourself. It’s about feeling the burn.

Experts claim this kind of exercise can produce a substantial list of health benefits, such as weight loss, reducing the risk of diabetes and boosting your cardiovascular system, as well as boosting muscle tone. In fact, when it comes to cycling, scientists demonstrated in a study that four 30-second bike sprints could lead to the kind of muscle development normally only seen in cyclists peddling away at medium intensity for two hours each session.

ten minutes easy running, three minutes hard running and five minutes medium running.

Wednesday: Ten repetitions of squat thrusts, star jumps, burpees, jump squats and lateral jumps with a 20 second breather. The sets were repeated and the number of repetitions reduced each time.

Thursday: Did a warmup run followed by 60 seconds hard run and 90 seconds hard run.

Repeated four times.

Friday: 30-second sets of intensive squat thrusts, star jumps, burpees, jump squats, lateral jumps, step-ups and high-knee running with a ten second rest between sets.

Beauty

Fashion

H ealth

What are the benefits of Fast Exercise?

1

Weight loss – Scientists predict that high intensity exercisers can lose one to two kilograms over a six to eight week period just by employing two 60 second High Intensity Training (HIT) exercises a week.

2

Heart strengthening – HIT exercises make heart muscles bigger, stronger and more efficient.

3

Hunger-buster - Believe it or not, while regular more lengthy exercise stimulates hunger, Fast Exercise has been proven to suppress appetite thereby aiding weight control.

4

Lower blood pressure – Studies founds that four-minute bursts of intense exercise, three times a week, lead to lowered blood pressure levels in previously inactive people.

5

A heightened metabolism - When muscle groups are pushed to their limits, it boosts the metabolism for up to 72 hours after the High Intensity Training.

6

Muscle gain - High Intensity Training can significantly help to increase muscle mass and tone.

7

No gym required - Exercises can be done with the minimum of equipment. Fast Exercises can be as simple as sprinting down the road or even running up the stairs.

8

No expensive equipment - Fast Strength exercises only rely on the body’s weight to provide the required resistance and not on mountains of expensive gym equipment.

9

Less time required - Tough exercise is delivered in small, albeit tough, bursts, so you needn’t worry about hours of slogging away at the gym.

10

Decreased health risks - HIT has been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes and stabilise blood sugar levels.

The Layman’s verdict Not for one moment would I care to dispute the science behind this exercise regime. I don’t have the experience or the knowledge. But it did strike me as a scheme that has merit. If nothing else, I was active each day during the week, and I subscribe to the idea that most forms of exercise are beneficial in some way. I’m also in no doubt that I burnt some serious calories during my exercises and that they helped to work my leg muscles in particular. After Monday’s set of quad-busting exercises, I was feeling the strain. But it’s too soon to talk about muscle definition, especially as I was concentrating on Fast Exercise rather than Fast Strength. However, there does seem to be a couple of elephants in the room.

Firstly, one of the promises of the regime is that it requires less time. In a way that’s certainly true. But let’s be specific, the amount of time needed for intensive exercise is reduced while the need to do a thorough warm-up remains. Tuesday’s so called ‘fast’ exercise involved heading out for a run along the beach for a period of 30 minutes in total, by the time I was warmed up and the exercises completed.

Secondly, claims have been made by some participants that they’ve followed such programs without even changing into their sports gear. Yet the aim of this program is to push you, to drive yourself hard, even for just a short while. That, inevitably, is going to make the average person sweat and I’m therefore surprised that there are those who would be happy to do so in their shirt and tie, as they’ve claimed. Good luck to them finding someone to sit next to in the office canteen.

The Professional’s verdict Speaking on High Intensity Training, James Murphy of Zest Fitness says, “Put simply, the higher the heart rate the more calories you’re going to burn,” he explains. “I often hear from people who say they’re walking for an hour a day, or jogging on a treadmill, but not losing any weight.

They’re not going to, because the heart rate isn’t getting to the point it needs to, to burn fat. If you’re of a decent level of fitness and not suffering from any breathing problems, it’s always better to do short bursts of high intensity training and lift the heart rate rather than slogging away at a slow pace.”

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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• Oman Sail • Shakespere & Co. • The Wave HO Hail • Burger King • Caledonian College • Markaz Al Bahja • McDonald’s • Omantel • Starcare Hospital • VLCC Rusayl • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -1 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -2 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -3 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -4 (ITA) • Middle East College • Omantel • Waljat College SQU • SQU - Diplomatic Club • SQU - College of Commerce • SQU - Students Banking Area • SQUH - Rception/ Canteen Al Khoud • AL Fair • Badar Al Sama • Pizza Hut Seeb • McDonald’s Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • Lulu Hypermarket Sawadi • Sawadi Beach Resort Massnaah • Millennium Hotel Sohar • Centre pointSplash • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Market, Falaj Al Qabail • Nawras • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port • Sohar university Nizwa • Nizwa University

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My Hood

Cars

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Outdoors

CARS AND OUTDOORS

HIDDEN GEM

Take a trip to Al Wusta and uncover the secret sandy paradise of Bantawt Beach.

JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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CARS AND OUTDOORS

My Hood

Cars

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Outdoors

Destination

Bantawt Beach

Take a trip to a beach with the softest white sand. Just don’t forget your bucket and spade – to dig out your car, says Jerzy Wierzbicki

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taking photographs. After a quick lunch stop, I decided to make things a bit more exciting by choosing a more difficult way through the pristine white sand dunes ahead of me.

The next two hours were mostly spent with a shovel under the car, digging it out. The soft sand was like white flour and my Land Cruiser 76, though not very heavy, got stuck endlessly. My sand ladders were invaluable.

The experience made me realise that there are still a lot things I have to learn about 4x4 driving in the desert.

A little beaten by the exercise and the sun, I finally reached Bantawt beach, driving the last stage on an amazing flat white expanse of sand. The sky was a dark blue. I pulled over by some rocks and put a long lens on my camera to approach a group of seagulls on the shore. As they took flight, I took some great shots from a distance. The white of the gulls contrasted with the dark rocks and the blue of the sea beneath them.

Later that evening, I sat next to my car on a small mat with a big cup of strong tea and listened to the wind and the waves. It was an unforgettable trip and one of the best of the year.

travel guide

T

here are those who like golden coloured sand, while others prefer a more reddish orange hue.

I like white. It’s aesthetically clean and the pure definition appeals to me.

However, for someone like me who spends his free time exploring Oman, white sand can make life difficult. It is by far the most challenging terrain for off-road drivers to tackle.

Reddish sand in places such as Wahiba Sands has a totally different structure. A single grain of sand is bigger, so the dunes have a regular, compact feel, which is easy for my Land Cruiser to drive on.

Greenery helps too. You’ll notice small plants, little grasses and some roots at Wahiba. These help to make the sandy surface much harder, and so much more predictable for drivers.

White sands, however, are soft and silky, like the finest cashmere flowing through your fingers. It makes for a tricky surface for you and the car to navigate, though in my opinion this is outweighed by its beauty.

This is the story about my last visit to a white beach.

Most people think of Khaluf as the number one destination for white sands. It is spectacular but search further afield and you will discover more.

In Al Wusta there is one such location, which even I didn’t know about for many years. It’s called Bantawt. The first time that I tried to go there was in late spring three years ago. After several kilometres, I lost the track due to a heavy sandstorm and, unfortunately, had to turn back.

I tried again a year later, in 2011, with my friend Andy but again the weather conspired against us. Strong winds forced us to give up. It had eluded me again.

Distracted by other adventures, I ‘forgot’ about the place and focused on different parts of Oman.

Then a few months ago, I remembered it. On my way back from Salalah, I decided to have another crack at conquering Bantawt.

This time, luck was on my side. The weather was perfect and, with several years exploring under my belt, I was much more confident behind the wheel.

The sandy track to the beach appeared fresh under my 4x4’s tyres, making driving easy.

At the end of the track, I found an aquaculture facility for breeding prawns. After a quick stop, I moved on to the massive white beach.

Having finally seen Bantawt with my own eyes, I resolved to return when the light was better. I got back there last month (December), making my way through the perfect white sand dunes spread between Khaluf and Bantawt, around a 25km drive.

At first, the journey went very smoothly. The adventure only began when I passed the biggest dune by the prawn farm. Suddenly I became stuck in the middle of two small dunes and couldn’t move forward. The sand was so soft that my car got bogged down. I deflated the tyres to an extremely low pressure (5 psi) and used a shovel to free the wheels. Back on track, I came across an area of trees around 3km later. The views were marvellous, with long white dunes stretched across the horizon, dissected by splashes of green from the trees and darker patches of rock.

I continued on but the driving was uncomfortable. A few times, I had to stop to walk forward and check the potential route. All the time, I was

Bantawt is approachable by two routes, one of which is very easy. It’s a long sandy track in very good condition and recommended if you don’t have a proper 4x4.

GPS location to this point: 20°20’27.39”N 57°47’1.24”E Go to Route 32 and pass Mahout. Head to Duqm and keep an eye on your GPS. There is also a road sign to Bantawt. The total distance is around 450 km.

The most attractive route is through Khaluf sands.

Pass Khaluf village and go south between the rock and sand dunes. It’s more then 25 km but the views are stunning. The ocean is on your left hand side all the time. You can drive directly on the beach from here.

The trees and sand dunes I mention are located

here 20°22’13.26”N 57°52’55.66”E

(Be aware, this part of Bantawt is only for good 4x4s.

The terrain is unpredictable so be well prepared.)

A perfect place for camping on the beach is

here 20°18’44.08”N 57°57’1.28”E

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CARS AND OUTDOORS outDOORS

My Hood

Cars

Wi-Fi

O U T doors

Kickstarter

Tom Robertson tries a session of kickboxing to see if it could jumpstart a healthier lifestyle Images: Jerzy Wierzbicki

A

s I lie collapsed on the gym mat, every muscle burns in my exhausted body. I feel light-headed as my face glows red, screaming in anger at the ludicrous amount of exertion I’m being encouraged to make. My limbs aren’t really functioning anymore, they’re just vessels of lactic acid flopping around uselessly. No pain, no gain, or so the saying goes. By that rationale, I’m entitled to some serious gain.

In fairness to Nidhal Aouali, one of the coaches at the Oman Kickboxing Club where I’m currently flirting with a heart attack, he does tell me to take it easy, reminding me that it’s just my first session.

Over the following days, I lament ignoring his sound advice. Unaccustomed to such intense exercise and not at all supple, my body gradually seizes up. The following morning I’m alarmed to find out that the muscles in my legs are so stiff, I’m virtually immobile. So much so that my

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flatmate ends up driving me everywhere, both of us having agreed that my foot may simply get stuck on the accelerator pedal against my will.

The next day, a pain racks my hip abductors that have been worked for possibly the first time ever. And finally, three days after my first kickboxing session, I head back to the office where my colleagues snigger at my inability to lift my arms. They help me in my moment of need by constantly asking me to pass things and watching me wince.

But the exhaustion and subsequent aching muscles bear testament not only to my own ineptitude to remain supple but that kickboxing is a fantastic form of intensive exercise.

In just one hour of kickboxing, the average participant can burn anywhere between 500 – 1200 calories and the metabolism can be 10-15 per cent higher for the following 12 hours.

“This is a tried and tested programme that we’ve developed over years,” says head coach

Baqar Haider, relying on his 20 years kickboxing experience to get the students into shape with a comprehensive warm-up, including stretches and light exercise before launching into the gutbusting timed exercises.

“We don’t expect every student to be able to make every push-up or sit-up that we’re encouraging them to do - but we do expect them to put in maximum effort for as long as they can.

As long as they’re giving it their all, that’s the important thing.”

From the amount of attendees, it’s obvious a great number of people are choosing not to shy away from such intensive exercise. An average turnout for the class is around 40 to 45 students but the sessions have seen as many as 60.

Kickboxing is a sport often sighted for providing a great all-over workout. As well as the cardiovascular exercises that result from Baqar’s fitness programme, the actual kickboxing techniques involved have a number of benefits.

My Hood

Fact box

£ Kickboxing originated in 1960s Japan. £ The sport is inspired by Muay Thai, a combat sport using stand-up striking techniques of

the feet, fists and elbows. £ Modern full contact kickboxing is best understood as a mixture between karate, Muay Thai and western boxing. £ The first Kickboxing Association was founded in 1966 in Japan. £ There is no single international governing

body but an array of organisations. £ There are many different forms and rules for the sport,such as Freestyle, Oriental and Sanshou.

Cars

Wi-Fi

O U T doors

Head coach, Baqar Haider (right), and assistant coach Nidhal Aouali (left)

Among the many are increased strength and flexibility, as well as improving speed and power.

Some even argue that kickboxing is a fantastic stress release, leading to a better night’s sleep along with the more traditional acceptance of the fact that our body releases endorphins – feel good chemicals - after a period of moderate or high intensity exercise.

Furthermore, all the muscle groups are worked; from the quads in the legs, to the biceps, triceps and deltoids that tire from the hundreds of punches thrown at the bag or, if you’re brave enough to stick around until the end of the session, in the ring.

But what if you don’t want to start throwing punches at someone you barely know?

“Not everybody who comes here gets in the ring”, concedes Baqar. “Some leave after just the fitness exercises, some people leave after the bag work and kickboxing training, but a lot stick around to get in the ring at the end of the session” One such person is the club’s assistant coach, Nidhal. As a total beginner he walked into the club when it first started three years ago, yet in his first ever competitive bout just last year, he knocked the opponent out in a mere 24 seconds.

But he’s putting the time in to achieve the necessary level of fitness and skill.

“At the moment, Baqar, my coach, and I are training up to six times a week” he admits.

After talking to Baqar and Nidhal and participating in a session, it became apparent to me that this, in a nutshell, is what kickboxing is about. Whether you’re there to learn a martial art to defend yourself, to fight competitively, or simply to improve your fitness, if you’re willing to put the time and effort in, you will see the results.

Considerable pain means substantial gain.

Practising techniques in the ring

Info box Try kickboxing at Oman Kickboxing Club at The Champ Gym, Al Khuwair Sunday 7:30pm-9:30pm Tuesday 7:30pm-9:30pm Thursday 7pm-9pm Info@omankickboxingclub.com Contact English (93647450) Contact Arabic (95317604) JAN 16 - 22 / ISSUE 303

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CARS AND

OUTDOORS WILD & WONDERFUL

West Virginia is often overlooked by travellers which is a pity considering its green mountains, raging whitewater rivers and snowcapped ski resorts make it one of the prettiest states in the USA.

Top 5 Places To Visit: 1. Cooper’s Rock State Forest 2. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum 3. PRT (Personal Rapid Transit) 4. Blue Hole 5. West Virginia University Campus

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Cars Shishira Sreenivas,

Wi-Fi

O u t d o o r s postcards from

recommends

WEST VIRGINIA

John Denver was spot-on when he penned the words to his evergreen song, Country Roads. With rolling Appalachian hills, woods and numerous pristine lakes, West Virginia indeed feels like it’s almost heaven - and I should know, I studied there.

Located in the north east of the United States of America, it is the 41st largest state and borders Pennsylvania and Maryland to the north east, Virginia to the south east, Ohio to the north west and Kentucky to the south west.

West Virginia’s unique geographical location makes it possible to have four contrasting seasons of autumn, winter, spring and summer. However, the best time to visit is during autumn as you will get to witness breathtaking scenery of hills and forests covered in splashes of orange, red, yellow and green, while the roads are covered with the foliage of fallen leaves. The state also attracts thrill-seekers looking for adventure because there are plenty of camping, hiking, climbing and swimming spots.

Even though the state capital, Charleston, is the largest city in the state, Morgantown, a city with a population of just over 30,000 attracts visitors to the state’s flagship university, West Virginia University. The university’s famous and unique logo called the flying ‘WV’ is recognised throughout the state and across the country. West Virginia is one of the few states in America that does not have its own American Football team.

As such, the university’s football team, ‘The Mountaineers’, draws families from far and wide. Cheers and chants of ‘Let’s goooo Mountaineers!’ echo from the iconic Milan Puskar Stadium, as the West Virginians enjoy their staple sport.

There are many other unique sites to visit across the state such as a haunted asylum, museums, glass factories, civil war sites and several historic hiking trails.

There are also dozens of wonderful little towns with quaint streets and hole-in-the wall eateries. For accommodation, there's plenty of options such as neat little inns offering Bed & Breakfast, historic hotels and luxurious ski resorts, as well as cabins and camping grounds in the great outdoors.

West Virginians are among the friendliest, most generous and welcoming people in the US and are quick to make you feel at home. So, if you are looking for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of a modern city, West Virginia is perfectly wild and wonderful.

Coope r ’s R o ck St Fores ate t

Bridge over New River

My Favourite Place: I lived in West Virginia for more than three years so I have many options. One that always stands out, however, is the lookout at the Cooper’s Rock State Forest. You get a panorama of the rolling hills and the gorge with a river flowing through it. Breathtaking!

Highlights: I love the falling leaves and the mild climate of autumn. It’s just the right temperature to sit and enjoy an al fresco meal in the cafes. The whole state is very colourful and picture perfect at this time of year, providing the ideal backdrop for those who love photography.

Lowlights:

As is the common complaint of many rural areas, most towns don’t have a proper airport.

While there are quite a few regional airports, you have to go all the way to Pittsburgh for the nearest international airport. There are buses from the airport to Morgantown, which is just over an hour away.

Souvenirs: Anything with the blue and gold colours of West Virginia University. Blue and Gold accessories are available in almost every shopping outlet in the state.

Where to stay: West Virginia is more suited for those looking for a bit of adventure and outdoor recreation. Cabins and camping are available for rent at almost every forest throughout the state.

West Virgin ia Mount aineer s

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043

-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Postcards from

Cars

Outdoors

WI-FI

My Robot

Whether you need an extra pair of hands or just want a lush lifestyle full of cool robots and gadgets, Matt Herbst looks at the possibilities of finding the right one for you DUST BUSTER

If, like me, you’re working long hours, the last thing you feel like doing when you get home is cleaning. Plus, the neighbours would be annoyed by the constant whirring of my vacuum cleaner. Step forward, or roll forward, the Neato XV, a diligent little dust-buster that’ll roam around your home and clean the floors while you’re at work. Not sure what the cat would think of it though. From RO145.90 at www.neatorobotics.com

TO THE BEAT

This cute character is called DiscoRobo. He detects nearby music and then dances to the beat. With candy coloured hues and dozens of expressions, this toy was designed to be a party loving playmate for both young and old alike.

Definitely an after dinner entertainer. Very affordable from RO19.24 at http://tosy.com

rough-and-tumble

The 2B is the sequel to the Sphero, a basic remote-controlled sphere that hurls itself around your floor. This follow-up adds bulky customisable wheels, hub caps and communicates with your smartphone via an iOS or Android app, as well as Bluetooth 4.0. This is the best of modern remote gameplay. Gone are the days of Scalectrix. If you get two 2Bs together, maker Orbotix says you’ll be able to make them fight, shooting virtual lasers from the glowing logo on the front. Very cool. Available late 2014 for RO 38.50. See www.gosphero.com for more information

EDITOR’S PICK HANDYman

The Roboscooper is an autonomous collector that goes round scooping up anything in its path. equipped with a robust set of six rubber wheels, designed to handle most home terrains, and the ability to go forwards, backwards, left and right there’s nowhere it can’t go. sensors on the hands allow it to recognise when objects are littered within range, which it will then promptly pick up and deposit into the back-mounted loading area. Perfect for cleaning up after the litter bugs around Oman or a lazy bachelor like me. Available in August for only RO26.93. Preorder at www.hammacher.com 044

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FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS

ROAMING

Now your mobile phone can really be mobile. This robot connects with any smartphone or tablet so you can speak to people while you both roam around the house. It can be equipped with a telepresence app, or simply programmed to play a video clip when it detects a person smiling at it. How sociable. The Synergy Swan costs a mere RO173. http://rbot.com

NEW! MAC PRO Graphics are changing, designers are getting faster and we’re being required to produce more complex projects in larger quantities. Trust Apple to come to the rescue again, stepping up to the plate and delivering a machine built for creativity on an epic scale. www.apple.com RO1,154.61 or RO1,539.61 depending on model.

Choose from either a lightning fast 3.7GHz, Quad-Core processor with 12GB memory or the more powerful 3.5GHz, 6-Core machine with 16GB memory.

Models come with Dual AMD FirePro D300 graphics processors with either 160GB/s or 240GB/s memory bandwidth. Storage ranges from 256GB upto 1TB.

APP OF THE WEEK

So, you’ve purchased every kind of robot on the market. Life is now easier and complete. But as with all technology, your robots require updates as time goes by. Hmmm, not such an easy life after all - Don’t worry, the Robot-App Store has that covered. Select which robot you intend to update and voilà, it’s done.

Simple. Various prices depending on robot software. www.robotappstore.com

The MacPro’s future-proofed for advances in display technology and can support up to three 4K displays or six Thunderbolt displays.

Includes OS X Mavericks version 10.9 and comes with Wi-Fi wireless networking compatible Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology.

Software includes iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, Pages, Numbers, Keynote, Maps, iBooks, Safari, Mail, FaceTime, Messages, Calendar, Contacts, Reminders, Time Machine, Photo Booth, iTunes, Game Center, Preview, Notes, the Mac App Store, Notification Center, Dictation, iCloud, Gatekeeper, Twitter and Facebook integration, and more.

THE GIRLY GADGET

Need a helping hand with all those lovely goodies you’ve just bought at the shops? Then this big-eyed ‘bot could be the little helper you’ve been looking for. Lightweight and with an eight hour rechargeable battery, Budgee, as he’s known to his friends, will follow you around and carry up to 22 kilos. That’s a lot of shoes. Brilliant. Pay RO462 towards the kickstarter campaign and have yours delivered by July. www.5elementsrobotics.com

JAN AUG1615- –2221 / / ISSUE ISSUE303 282

045

CARS AND OUTDOORS

Postcards from

Wi-Fi

Outdoors

C ars

Hyundai 2014 Elantra

Engine: Range up to 2.0L multipoint injection, four cylinders Horsepower: 145-173 Transmission: Six-speed automatic Price: From RO5,749 depending on specification

Car of the Week

Upgraded and repacked, the new Hyundai Elantra looks good in all the right places, says Kate Ginn

T

here’s a new kid on the compact car block. Well, it’s not exactly new - the Hyundai Elantra has been around since 1990 – but it has undergone something of a facelift with the South Korean car manufacturer taking the model and giving it a good shake.

The result is a leaner, meaner and more stylish machine with lots of cutting edge features and touches designed to make the driving experience as pleasurable as possible.

Even better news is that the new Elantra is now available in the Middle East. Last year’s version was the most popular Hyundai model in the region, selling more than 70,000 in the first nine months of 2013.

Hyundai says the 2014 model has been completely redesigned from the ground up and it shows.

From the flowing lines of the body to the alloy wheels and upgraded interior, the result is a more luxurious feel both inside and out.

There’s a stepped-up performance too, with an upgraded 1.6 engine to go with the 1.8 and 2.0 options. Added safety features such as ESP (which means Electronic Stability Programme to prevent skidding for those who don’t know), front, side and curtain airbags and active headrests, which help reduce whiplash injuries in 046

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the event of a collision, will appeal to families.

I like the design with a new radiator grille, bumper and LED lights. The optional chrome mouldings add to the more dynamic feel. This car has more personality and a bit of an attitude too.

If you think it looks longer, you’re right. I won’t bore you with the mechanics of it all but it’s got an extra 22mm. The leg and headroom is also appreciably more generous.

The ride is improved too, fun and sporty, while an enhanced suspension gives it added comfort.

Hyundai’s’ Flex Steer System offers three distinctly different driving experiences – normal, comfort and sport – depending on your mood.

Performance is all well and good but cars are also sold on how it looks and feels on the inside. Well, the Elantra doesn’t disappoint on that score, I’m pleased to report.

Careful attention has been given to the interior, I’m told, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. The stainless steel doorsteps, for instance, give it an immediate premium look as you open the door. There’s a very nice looking instrument cluster, blue-lit at night, with an integrated information system via a 3.4-inch display screen. Air conditioning – always a prime concern for those

Oman summer months – can be fully automatic or manual, and the air vents have been moved centrally for better flow. Additions such as a cooled glove box to keep drinks cold during journeys really make the Elantra stand out from the competitive compact crowd.

There’s a decent stereo with steering wheel controls putting the power of six speakers at your fingertips.

I also like the cute little touches, like the sunglass case, a handy tray in the centre of the dashboard (for loose change) and drinks holders in the arm rest in the back, which give the impression that the designers behind this new Elantra really gave it some thought.

Optional extras include a 7-inch touch screen navigation system and ventilated front seats for hot days.

There’s new seat upholstery and if you really want to go for luxe, you can pay extra for leather.

On the outside, you’re spoilt for choice with six new colours. Even the names of the shades – coffee bean, tropical sea blue and satin amber to name three – hint at something a little different.

While the Elantra is squarely pitched at families, it has the looks to attract younger drivers.

Want a compact with charisma and character? Then the Elantra could well be for you.

They say: ‘Opens the door to new possibilities.’

We say: ‘Reinvigorated look and feel.’

Check this out

LED headlights Alloy wheels 7” touch screen navigation system (optional) Ventilated front seats Fully automatic air conditioning LCD touch screen audio system Rear view camera (optional) Leather upholstery (optional) Flex Steer System