Y Magazine #445, November 17, 2016 by SABCO Press, Publishing and Advertising

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NOV 17 - 23 2016 / ISSUE 445 • WEEKLY

PORTRAIT BY A NATION

PLUS!

Children Celebrate Oman’s 46th National Day

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EDITOR’S

NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine – your top guide to the best of Oman every week.

Fast forward

s the nation gathers tomorrow to celebrate Oman’s 46th National Day, Team Y has also been busy with Portrait By A Nation – our children’s art competition that is dedicated to the wise and inspiring leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said. The past two weekends have seen Team Y travel as far afield as Salalah, Nizwa and Sohar and then back to the capital in an effort to involve as many children as possible for this historic occasion, enabling them to create their special tributes to His Majesty The Sultan. Now in its third year, Portrait By A Nation has attracted a record number of entries in 2016 and it’s been an amazing experience for everybody – the children and their parents, our sponsors and also for Team Y. Not only are we privileged to witness some incredible talent on show, it is also a great opportunity for us to meet so many of our readers. Thank you for your support of this wonderful grassroots event – and we look forward to our 4th Portrait By A Nation next year. Happy 46th National Day, Oman!

editor@y-oman.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi MANAGING EDITOR Felicity Glover

PHOTOGRAPHER Shaquel al Balushi REPORTER Alvin Thomas DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Feroz Khan

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Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman. NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

contents NOV

Your Oman

2016

20 Portrait By A Nation Y’s annual art event 26 Driven by pride Motorists dress up their cars for National Day

This Week

08 Voice Of Oman Fatin al Zadjali

Features

16 This Week Don Giovanni

10 News National Day celebrations

18 Movies Trolls

12 News Line honours for Atari 7

13 Gallery Shell Oman launches new café

14 Faces of Oman 15 Hyundai – Driven To Success Shaker Jalal

Cars and Adventures

Food and Drink 28 Food Feature Giving thanks

38 Destination Wadi Lahloo

Health and Beauty

30 Taste Test Eatalian

32 Fashion Geek style 34 Beauty Skin doctor 35 Health Cold and flu season

40 Indoors Ana Moura’s ROHM performance 44 Y-Fi Adventure gadgets 46 Car Of The Week SUV round-up for 2017

NEXT ISSUE... FEATURES / COFFEE WITH Y / NEWS / MOVIES / EVENTS / BEAUTY / DESTINATION / TRAVEL / FASHION / OUTDOORS

With more than three decade s of experience as a fighter an d a teacher in mixed martial arts, Sensei Simson is one of the Sultana te’s leading masters in moulding the wa rriors of tomorrow. Alvin Th omas meets him s one of the most illustrious under-15 cate

gory,” he says with pride. Black artists in mixed martial arts in Belt from Danny Lane’s World “This gave me the confidence to the country, Sensei Simson V Ma rtia l Arts Federation, in the US; proceed. Following that, I took par Zacharia is known to be one of the t and 5th Dan Black Belt from the Kar won many other tournaments. But most sought-after Senseis (martia my Association of India; 5th Dan ate l arts bre Black Belt ak came in 1991 when I took part in teacher) for karate training in Om from the World Karate Federation an. my first and fullcontact tournament. Unfortunately, that also means he’s 2nd Dan Black Belt in taekwondo. “Th ese tou rna ments were known for extremely hard to pin down, in eve Today, the Sensei trains his students ry their ruthlessness as they require at sense. But he graciously offers me the Kalabhavan branches in Ruwi, Al an opp onent to be knocked out complet Hai l hour; no time for coffee but adequa ely. and Al Ghubra. te It was dangerous, but incredibly exc time for a chat. iting. “My aim is to help students And in both 1991 and 1993, I took protect Our meeting point is the Kalabh the themselves in the street sho avan first positions in the 55kg cate uld the need gory. Arts & Music Centre at Al Ghubr a, “Unfortunately, the tournament was arise. They should be able to protect where he teaches 200-odd students themselves, as well as the people banned in India soon after. Of cou around mixed martial arts. And with a smi rse, them ,” he says. le on this was also before the nam e ‘mixed his face, and still dressed in his “Gi His enthusiasm and dedication as ” (the martial arts’ came into exis tence,” uniform used for karate), he invites a Sensei paid off in 2014, when he me he says. to take a seat. became the first individual residing He also had to sign away his life on I learn that he has just concluded in the GCC to receive the “Hall of his a waiver form before taking part in classes and for a man who’s just turn Honour” award from the Action ed the fight. The tournament was 43, he hasn’t even broken a sweat. called Martial Arts Magazine in the US “All India All-Style Open”, in whi –a But for an individual with more ch qua drennial award. figh ters wer e allowed to use any fighting than 30 years of experience in mix “I was incredibly happy to receive ed technique, such as karate, kung fu martial arts, this is just another day and the award, and it gives me immense at judo to knock the opponent down. the office. However, this man with pleasure to teach today’s young such Bef ore this tournament, howeve a prolific career began in rather hum generation of kids to become selfble Simson had already begun teac r, beginnings. hing suffi cient, confident and well-behaved students in his hometown. Armed Born in the gorgeous and historic with adults. That is what karate al and other a brown belt, at the age of 13, he lakeside village of Thathampally began martial art forms actually – also by teaching police officers aim to as well as known as the “Vatican of Kerala” achieve,” he says. – oth er juni ors. His role as a teacher (then in the district of Alleppey in Kerala, But what is it that gives him the trainee instructor), he says, took him Simson is the youngest of 10 chil to motivation to teach? dren. various parts of India; starting with His first taste of mixed martial arts his He says: “A long time back, in the state and then proceeding to citie came in 1978, when he started trai s such villa ge of Mavelikara, a student was ning as Mangalore, Manipal, Che nnai, and seen falling into a sma in the traditional fighting form of ll canal. There Gurgaon among others. kalaripayattu at the age of five. was everyone from teachers and “To teac h, ther e was a special “Kalarippayattu is a Dravidian students on the scene but no one training by the KO-IN-CHI Aca knew martial art form and is known to dem y wha t to do. be one of Martial Arts,” explain s Simson. “It of the oldest art forms, at 2,000 to “And it was at that point, one of 3,000 stands for Korea-India-Ch the ina and it years old,” explains the Sensei. KO -IN-CHI students pulled the scar aim s to f follo w the tech niqu es of mixed from one of the oth “It is also known as the ‘mother of er students and martial arts.” martial arts’ and it was compulsory threw it into the canal for the you at Digging further into the academy, ng home for all of us brothers to stud girl to catch. Seeing the child’s effo y the I learn that it was Simson rts, ’s brother, art form.” the teachers and other children beg Seb asti an an, who init iate d and laid the But in 1984, with six years under acting on the situation. And the girl his foundation for the academ was y, in 1986. belt, Simson entered his first profess saved. ional The academy is a certified studio of the competition – the International “This is what I want to instill in eve World Martial Arts Federation in ry Karate Tournament – following the US student. I want every stud the ent to and be the at KO -IN -CH I Sho tokan Shotokan style (one of the four styl es in Association. It is also provide Karate the forefront for his or her house, land s training karate approved by the World Kar and subsequently, the nation. And ate for the US police force. that is Federation). wha t makes me proud.” And Sen sei Sim son ’s CV is no less “We had participants from India, impressive: his various accolades Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Banglad include Have you got a unique story to tell or do you know esh that attaining the 5th Dan Bla someone who has? Contact us to have coffe ck Belt from year. And I took the first position e with Y in the the KO-IN-CHI Academ y; the 5th Dan and be featured in Y Magazine. Email: editor@y-oman.com

NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

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THE VOICE OF OMAN FATIN AL ZADJALI ON THE POWER OF PATRIOTISM AND NATIONAL PRIDE

correspondence ART FOR A VERY GOOD CAUSE Dear Editor, The story “Art For A Cause” (Issue 443) is one close to my heart since it has a clear objective. There are many ways one can support a good

here is a saying used in the Sultanate: “Everyday is Eid” (a joyous festival whether it’s religious or symbolic). With that said, a symbolic month in our beautiful country of Oman is November. At this time of year, our city of Muscat and connecting Wilayats are flourishing with flags, decorative cars, illuminating tree lights and patriotic citizens. The beauty of Oman shines through its citizens and expatriates breathing, living and sleeping under the safety and admiration of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said – may Allah protect mim. November 18 is a day that symbolises His Majesty’s 76th birthday and on this majestic day, the nation celebrates the birth of their beloved leader and national pride of his ruling. As an Omani woman and student I couldn’t be any prouder to be living here. In just 46 years, Oman has progressed into an outstanding nation bringing people together and displaying the everlasting essence of this beautiful country. In addition, being a woman in the Sultanate has proven to be a beautiful connection of achievement and equality. With the previous month’s celebration of Omani Women’s Day, the country has been in an electric mood spreading His Majesty’s kindness and spirit to every walking soul around. Lastly, being an Omani has continually taught me the power of patriotism. We live in a world where safety and happiness is cherished. Be proud of your blessings, your country’s blessings and have a joyful, prosperous and festive 46th National Day.

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NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

cause and the story shared here is a good example of that. The “pink month” of October was once again blessed with initiatives such as this one and hopefully they will benefit those who are struggling to remain strong. As it says in the caption, “art” has always been able to comfort people who face difficulties in their lives. Painting does reflect life and has the ability to bring pleasure to so many people. Initiatives such as this one can continue to influence and help make a change to people’s lives. Sincerely, Ramachandran Nair, Ruwi

DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED:

As Oman celebrates its 46th National Day, what is the Sultanate’s biggest achievement so far? KAMAL DILIP

His Majesty’s focus on growing infrastructure is the pillar and cornerstone of Oman’s comprehensive development. The provision of reliable and modern infrastructure in all parts of the Sultanate has, for the past 46 years, paved the way for the establishment of many economic, commercial, and industrial projects while also fostering the growth of educational, cultural, health and social institutions. Peace has been the cornerstone of His Majesty’s rule ever since he rose to power 46 years ago and maintaining it has been central to his policies at all levels, be they at local, regional or international. His deep belief in peace and tranquility, together with a focus on

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modernisation and diversification of the economy, has helped create a favorable environment for the development of the country. It has also set up Oman as a promising venue for foreign investment.

WAFAA EL ANANY

His Majesty has invested in his people in his drive towards making a secure and glorious Oman. He has successfully provided his country and people with security and wealth to live in prosperity and joy.

SYEDA KABIR

The 46th National Day is at the door and I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the role His Majesty has played over these long years. The Sultanate of Oman has never been left behind. It has always looked forward to keeping pace with development in every aspect, be it the relationship with other countries, the interests of the people within, industrialism, tourism, health services or education. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said has secured his position as the most successful leader in the hearts and minds of this nation’s residents and expatriates. Never could any nation receive a bigger achievement than this. And finally, if our Sultan is awarded with the Noble Peace Prize, this nation would definitely burst into tears of tremendous joy.

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Definitely, and without any doubt the Sultanate’s biggest achievement so far has been its independent foreign policy with which it is enjoying a respectable place among the comity of nations. This is entirely due to His Majesty’s lack of interference in other countries, adopting peace, hospitality and brotherhood. The people of Oman have also earned a good reputation by attracting tourists. This has enabled Oman to earn a place among the Top Ten Most Beautiful Countries in the World too. All of these achievements are due to His Majesty’s dynamic leadership.

GAUTAM GHOSH DASTIDAR

For 15 odd years, Oman has been the sacred soil to father my family and me in our rainiest days. Prior to these years I lived in many a metropolis like Kolkata, Allahabad, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ajmer and Chennai (India); Paris and Strasbourg (France); Bern and Basel (Switzerland); and Berlin (Germany). However, I realised, if God shed no repentant tears to date for having humankind composed that is thanks to just one lone making of Him. That making is indubitably this petite piece of land in the Arabian Peninsula. What man failed to achieve in 4.6 million years, Oman has already achieved in less than 46 years. And that biggest achievement is ‘love all’. Oman loves everyone and is hence loved by everyone the world over!

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peace-loving leader like His Majesty is another great achievement of the Sultanate. Oman can adapt to modern technology without sacrificing its cultural heritage and traditions. We hope and pray that continual progress and development, specifically in terms of public transportation such as metro trains and more buses, can be another big achievement in the future.

MOHAN ANANDAN

The single most achievement of the Sultanate is its enviable status as an ocean of peace, stability and tranquility. Oman enjoys a highly distinguished and respectable place among the comity of nations as a peace-loving nation whose nationals are the embodiment of peace, love and affection and are renowned for their hospitality

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and brotherliness. By not aligning with any sides and by not interfering in the affairs of other nations, Oman has its own distinctive identity. And when it comes to issue-based support to causes that are genuine and for the progress of the nation in particular, Oman spares no effort in extending its fullest support. To cap it all, Oman has a ruler who is fondly admired, loved and greatly respected by its people. His astute leadership, pragmatism and peacemaking efforts have won many hearts and accolades worldwide.

DANIELA ELIZA URSU

Peace and tolerance.

MOHAMMAD OSAMA RAWAT

The biggest achievement of Oman is its belief in the peaceful co-existence of everybody.

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MOHAMED ABDOULMAGUID

Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, who has had a clear vision of what he wishes for Oman, the homeland and the people, the state and society. He is responsible for reviving the Omani human civilisation and has restored its glory.

TANVEER HUSSAIN MALIK

By the passage of time and changing scenarios of the Arab states, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said has maintained a moderate and friendly policy with neighbouring countries and with the world as well. This is the best achievement for a true leader.

JAYASHREE KRISHNAN

AMINA SARA was spotted with his favourite Y Magazine in Muscat THIS IS YOUR SPOT! Just send us your picture with Y Magazine or pose with our photographer and we will publish it on this page

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First and foremost, we can proudly say Oman is one of the few countries where peaceful and friendly life is prevalent amid today’s world of chaos and hatred. In the current climate, it’s not easy for a country to provide its citizens with a good life without any influence of anti-social elements. All of us should be proud of this beautiful, loving, safe and humble country under the leadership of His Majesty Qaboos bin Said.

ZAHID SAEED

His Majesty has done so much to bring tourists to Oman. To stay in Oman is to love this country. I hope that, along with tourism, Oman can attract more international investment and that it is planned and co-ordinated wisely.

RONNEIL SALES VALIENTE

The biggest achievement of Oman so far is being the most peaceful and friendly country in the GCC under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. Having a great and

NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

YOUR

OMAN T

NEWS

NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS BEGIN

here’s no better time to be in the Sultanate than the days leading up to our 46th National Day. It is a time when national pride is at an all time high, and the dazzling hues of red, green and white, representing the national flag, overshadows every other colour in the streets, all the way from Khasab in the north to Salalah in the south. And this year, as the nation comes together to celebrate 46 years of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said’s rule in the Sultanate, there’s no lack of pomp and fervor. Car owners have already decorated their cars in the colours of the flag, with slogans such as “I love Oman” and “I love my leader”, as well as adorning them with photos of His Majesty The Sultan. Thousands of colourful lightbulbs, flags and almost 900 decorative lights have also been switched on along the main roads. Thomas, an engineer based in Muscat, said: “The decorations that grace the roads look amazing. It really lightens the mood and sets the tone for National Day. I’m surprised to see the extravagant amount of lights, but to be honest; I love it. “I really wish they leave the lights on even after the National Day.” According to officials from the National Committee for National Day Celebrations, the lights will stay on until the end of

November. There are six different shapes, all of them representing Oman’s rich heritage, natural treasures and music. This year’s designs also include an incense burner, a “Mirash”, musical notes and three types of flowers. Come tomorrow (November 18), fireworks are set to light up the skies over Al Amerat, Seeb and Salalah to mark National Day. The shows are scheduled to start at 8pm. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s Red Arrows aerobatic team from the Royal Air Force (RAF) is also slated to perform in Oman on November 20, in a stunning air display that can be watched in the area around the InterContinental Muscat hotel.

US SECRETARY OF STATE JOHN KERRY CONFERRED WITH OMAN CIVIL ORDER

is Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said has conferred US Secretary of State John Kerry with the Oman Civil Order of the Second Class in recognition of his efforts to serve the relations between Oman and the US, in a meeting on Monday [November 14] at Bait Al Barakah.

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During the meeting, the cooperation between the Sultanate and the United States, as well as the latest developments at regional and international arenas also were discussed. HE Yousuf Bin Alawi Bin Abdullah, the Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs, HE Darwish Bin Ismail Al Balushi, the Minister Responsible for Financial Affairs, HE Dr Ali Bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, and other VIP guests accompanying delegation also attended the meeting. Earlier, Alawi and Kerry also discussed various regional and international issues, as well as the Sultanate’s peaceful and humanitarian role in Yemen’s 19-month conflict. Oman has been a mediator for peace talks between Houthi rebels and Yemen’s UN-recognised government of President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi.

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YOUR

OMAN Bite Sized OUR WEEKLY SLOT TAKES A LIGHTHEARTED LOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE OF THE WEEK.

CHARLOTTE’S WEB

Is this about a spider? You guessed it in one. Is it scary? Um, kind of, but it’s not deadly. That’s a relief ! Tell me more. It’s about a gigantic huntsman spider, which was rescued by the Barnyard Betty’s Rescue in Queensland, Australia. A photo of the huge arachnid, nicknamed Charlotte, climbing over a broom recently went viral, much to the horror of arachnophobes the world over. Why are there so many scary creatures in Australia? We have no idea, to be honest. But having grown up there, we have to say that checking our shoes every morning for funnel web spiders was a bit of a game for us! Is Charlotte OK? She’s fine, according to her rescuers. They have released the eight-legged creature on the farm and say she “goes about her business eating bugs and living in peace. Are they poisonous? Unlike the funnel web spider, one of the world’s deadliest, the huntsman is not considered deadly, while their bite is not fatal to humans. That said, we reckon Charlotte would pack a pretty nasty bite based on her size! How big can the huntsman spider grow? The average huntsman can grow to about 2.5cm long and have a leg span of about 12.7cm, according to Wikipedia. But then there’s the giant huntsman, which has a leg span of about 30cm – think the size of a dinner plate! Don’t say: “Itsy bitsy spider.” Do say: “Nice spider.” 012

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NEWS

ATARI 7 TAKES LINE HONOURS IN DUBAI-MUSCAT SAILING RACE

t was an exciting finish for the Dubai to Muscat Sailing Race, the longest offshore race in the region, with Atari 7 crossing the line first at Al Mouj Marina earlier this week, as well taking home the coveted Sohar Trophy. The boats set sail from Dubai late last week for the 300-mile journey that took them through the stunning waters of Musandam and through the Strait of Hormuz. Atari 7 Captain Hannes Waimer credited his team for the win in what was to be a challenging race that saw two boats retire due to the lack of wind. “We have a core team I have been sailing with for 20 years, including on both previous Muscat races,” Waimer said. “The remaining factors were good weather routing and great drivers. We were also very lucky. There is always an element of luck with the wind. The team worked very hard and they are great people.” Second across the line at Al Mouj Marina was Pindar Volvo 60, skippered by Tom Way, followed by Faith, a

THROUGH YOUR EYES

Beneteau 44.7, in third place. Oman Sail’s boat, Mumm 30, which was captained by Fahad al Hasni, crossed the finishing line in fourth place. Now in its 25th year, the Dubai to Muscat Sailing Race is organised by the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation in association with Oman’s Ministry of Sports Affairs. The race officially ended on Tuesday (November 15).

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This week’s supermoon was one of the biggest trending stories around the world. For the first time in nearly 70 years, the moon was at its closest point to the earth, shining 30 per cent brighter than normal and appearing to be much bigger in the sky. Y reader Bader Nasser al Ghailani shared his photo of the supermoon with Y, which was taken from Ras al Hamra.

Send your photo to editor@y-oman.com to be featured in our new section, Through Your Eyes. Include where it was taken, your name and occupation.

Bader Nasser al Ghailani Deputy Head Nurse Intensive Care Unit Sultan Qaboos University Hospital

CAFÉ CULTURE

GALLERY

SHELL OMAN MARKETING HAS MADE ITS FIRST FORAY INTO THE BRANDED COFFEE BUSINESS, RECENTLY LAUNCHING THE NEW DELI CAFÉ AT ITS MAWALEH SOUTH SHELL SERVICE STATION. INAUGURATED BY ASADA HARINSUIT, SHELL’S VICE PRESIDENT OF RETAIL BUSINESS IN THE EAST REGION, OTHER GUESTS INCLUDED SHELL OMAN CEO MOHAMMED MAHMOOD AL BALUSHI.

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aces of

Oman

Welcome to Yâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weekly photo series that profiles the diverse characters who call the Sultanate home Name: Fatin al Zadjali Age: 22 From: Oman Occupation: Student/intern Passion: Ballet

Photo: Shaquel al Balushi

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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

DRIVEN TO

SUCCESS

Working for an international bank as a business development manager, Shaker Jalal, 35, is considered a highly successful Omani. However, when he is not at his desk, he is living up to his nickname of the ‘Da Vinci of Oman’, a moniker he received after he painted his legendary modern-day interpretation of the Mona Lisa. He has also represented Oman at an international level through exhibitions and art competitions in countries such as Brazil and the UAE Q: What drives you to success? I started painting when I was very young. As a matter of fact, I paint whenever I get the time, even if it is after work. It has become more of a feeling and emotion to do so. I like to paint challenging images which people think are not achievable. But above all, I like to paint portrait images that are beyond one’s thinking and imagination, because it shows the history behind the people and also the various emotions that the individual was portraying.

Q: Who or what has been your inspiration? I take inspiration from legendary artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Salvador Dali. I had seen their paintings at a very young age, and because in those days there were no Arabian and Omani artists who were very well known, these were the two artists who inspired me to be who I am now. But since the advent of Omani artists, I have to say that each and every artist in Oman inspires me. It doesn’t matter if they are young or old – if they’re good, I try to learn from them. Q: What is your biggest career success to date? My biggest success to date happened last National Day, when I took the award for the best painting of His Majesty. The competition happens every five years, and artists from all over Oman preceded the competition. Winning the award was a privilege to me and I am incredibly humbled by the accolades I received. Q: What are your career goals? My biggest career goal would be to present Omani art on an international level. As an artist I can say that us Omanis are some of the best artists in the world. But now it is up to us to go and exhibit our works with them (international artists) and show them what Omani artists can actually do. I also want to take Oman’s art to the next level and at the same time leave a legacy behind for the next generation of upcoming artists. When I graduated, there

THE GENESIS HAS IMPRESSED AND AMAZED ME IN MY VERY FIRST TEST DRIVE EXPERIENCE OF THE CAR. IT IS SPACIOUS AS A FAMILY CAR BUT IT DRIVES LIKE A SPORTS CAR. was no legacy for Arabian or Omani artists, so I had to draw inspiration from other artists. But if I can successfully do that for the future generation, they see what I have done and they can start off from where I left. Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time? As an artist, I would like to portray my work internationally. As a matter of fact, my aim for 2017 is to exhibit all my works internationally, and also represent Oman and Oman’s art on a global scale. Q: What do you like about the Genesis, the premium series of Hyundai Motor Company? The Genesis has really impressed and amazed me in my very first test-drive experience of the car. It looks like a family car as it provides substantially spacious interiors as well as intricately designed interior elements. Attention to detail is something the engineers of this car have done. At the same time, it also drives like a sports car with its powerpacked engine and brilliant handling dynamics. It is also as luxurious as some of the best of the cars in the market today and is indeed a car for those who don’t want to make any compromises when it comes to choosing the very best. NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

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THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

Creative Escape

NOV

Don Giovanni NOV

Relax and find your inner artist at the renowned Gailani Art Retreat at the Hormuz Grand Hotel in Seeb. The full-day retreat focuses on art and music and is a great way to eliminate built-up stress and day-to-day anxieties. You don’t need to be a trained artist – all you need is a willingness to explore the day’s topic and express yourself on canvas. The retreat starts at 8.30am and it costs RO20, which includes lunch. You’ll need to bring your own art supplies. Call Huma on 9760 9925 to register.

THIS

WEEK

Head to the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) for a stunning performance of Don Giovanni, which will be performed by the renowned Opéra de Lyon. Mozart’s 1787 masterpiece follows the legendary story of Don Juan, a notorious nobleman who uses various tricks and lies to seduce women. The music will be led by maestro Stefano Montanari and curtain up is at 7pm. For bookings, go to www.rohmuscat.org.om.

Escape time WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

N O V E M B E R Calling all college students! It’s time to get away at the Escape party at the Ramee Guestline Hotel in Qurum. Kicking off at 8pm, two of Muscat’s most popular DJs – DJ Sassy and DJ Leon – will rock the house with a fun mix of tracks. Tickets are priced at RO10. It’s essential to book as no tickets will be sold at the door. Contact 92052409 or 9612 2828 for ticket details and remember: college students only.

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NOV 24

Gallery

Movies

With changes expected to be made to Oman’s Labour Laws and No Objection Certificate in the coming week, the Australian Business Group Oman’s latest Drum Seminar has been timed well. Guest speaker Gorvinder Pannu, the legal director at Addleshaw Goddard, will be discussing Oman’s Labour Law at this seminar, which is a must-attend event for expats. Email admin@abgoman.com to register. It is free for ABGO members, while guests are welcome and will pay RO10. The event starts at 6pm in the Yashbum Room at the Grand Hyatt Muscat.

NOV

NOV 30

Legal talk

Join the friendly women from the Women’s Guild of Oman at their regular coffee morning. This one is being held at the Holiday Inn Muscat in Seeb from 10am, where you can catch up with old friends and meet new people. You can also register for the coming 2017 membership year, as well as find out about forthcoming events.

COFFEE TIME NOV

NOV 17

CHILL OUT

It’s the end of the week and there’s no better place to chill out in Muscat than at Chill Thursdays at Laval Restaurant and Bar at the Ghala Golf Club. Now that the cooler weather is upon us, the rooftop bar is a sweet spot to hang out with your friends while their resident DJ spins a few decks in the background. For reservations, call 2450 5112 or WhatsApp 9699 4365.

HOP IT

Hip-hop fans will be happy to hear that DJ Crown Prince, from Miami in the US, is spinning the decks at On the Rocks bar and restaurant in Seeb. Also featuring DJ Khalifa, it’s promising to be one of the coolest nights of the year. Free entry for couples, ladies and cabin crew while single guys pay RO15 (price includes three drinks). For table reservations, contact 9798 3333 or 9444 7775.

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MOVIES MOVIES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TIMES, GO TO: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net VOX Cinemas: oman.voxcinemas.com Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641

Hacksaw Ridge

Trolls I have been wanting to see this movie for a while now because I’m a big fan of some of the actors who are voicing it, like James Corden (who plays Biggie, a very big troll), Anna Kendrick (Poppy, the princess of the trolls) and Justin Timberlake (Branch, a cranky troll survivalist). Made by the creators of Shrek, another one of my favourite movies, Trolls is a fun movie for all ages. It’s got some great music – think Timberlake’s hit Can’t Stop The Feeling – and also some very funny jokes. But the happy world of Troll Village is invaded by the evil Bergens, who kidnap Poppy’s friends to eat. Why do they eat them? Because the only time a Bergen can feel real happiness is when they eat a troll.

WIN CHANCE TO R U O Y B A R G TS EMA TICKE IN C Y IT C R FOU

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION Who helps Poppy to save her friends in Trolls? LAST WEEK'S WINNER Karen Riddy

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So Poppy and Branch set out to find her friends and along the way, find friendship and have lots of adventures. Poppy and Branch are very different characters. Poppy is bright and happy and is always singing and dancing. This is the exact opposite of Branch, who has lost his happiness and is now a grey colour. But this doesn’t stop them from working together to find the other trolls and save them from the Bergens before it’s too late. But disaster strikes when all the trolls, including Poppy, begin to lose their bright colours, just like Branch. It’s music and friendship that save them … but I don’t want to give away the ending, except to say that you will find your happy place with this movie! Review by Cia Glover

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN, just answer a question based on the week’s cinema reviews and send your answer to info@y-oman.com, along with your name and contact information. Tickets must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions, see voucher. Contact: Movie enquiries 2460 7360

It’s been a major comeback year for Mel Gibson whose latest directorial effort has to be one of his best since his Oscar-winning Braveheart. Hacksaw Ridge is a powerfully moving film about World War Two American Army medic Desmond T. Doss (Andrew Garfield), who went to war without firing a bullet. Based on a true story, Doss served during the

Battle of Okinawa and refused to go into battle bearing arms. What follows is a story of heroism in which he saves the lives of 75 men behind enemy lines, becoming the first Conscientious Objector to be awarded the Medal of Honour. A must-watch movie that also stars Vince Vaughn, Sam Worthington, Rachel Griffiths and Hugo Weaving.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Harry Potter author JK Rowling is back at her magical best with this. Starring Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander, a British wizard, scientist and taxonomist who finds himself in New York in 1926, it is a rollicking adventure and fantastic supernatural story that is packed with brilliant special effects. Fantastic Beasts was actually a textbook studied at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter franchise, and Rowling has done very well to bring it to life. Another must-see film.

Bollywatch ROCK ON II Eight years in the making, the sequel to Rock On!! has finally hit the big screen, with most of the original cast reunited for the second outing of this musical drama. Starring Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal, Shraddha Kapoor and Purab Kohli, it has received mixed reviews, with a number of critics disappointed that it lacks the warmth and fun of the original. As the four friends reunite to relive their glory days from their rock band Magik, they find that time has changed them and music now comes from the heart, rather than driven by commercial success. In Hindi with Arabic subtitles.

CMY

Youngsters of all ages set up canvases, grabbed brushes and arranged an array of tools to take on the daunting task of depicting His Majesty Sultan Qaboos for National Day. Alvin Thomas watched some of them get ready for their artistic endeavour

he tension is running deep and eight-year-old Akidat, who has taken a seat along with a bunch of other kids in the beginner’s section of the arena, is trembling with anxiety over how she will proceed with her painting. After all, this is the first time she has ever taken part in a painting competition on such a scale. Upon closer examination, her hand is shaking as she holds her paintbrush in anticipation of starting. And, quite sweetly, she asks: “Can I start my painting already?” Looking around her, we notice that it’s not just young Akidat who is eagerly awaiting the start of the competition. There are more than 90 children from various schools around the capital, ranging from ages five to 17. All are keenly present at the scene of Y’s Portrait By A Nation art competition. But, don’t let the numbers fool you. This is only one of the eight sessions that was co-ordinated to bring together the Sultanate’s children in an attempt to create a lasting tribute to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said for the 46th National Day of Oman. All have a blank canvas on which to unleash their artistry. And as the clock strikes 3pm, all the chitter-chatter dies down and the tense atmosphere at The Walk at Al Mouj turns into an exciting race to find out who can bring to the table the most creative portrait. Akidat is already hard at work, and appears comfortable in handling her art materials and… wires and batteries, leaving us wondering what they are for. Now in its third year, Y’s Portrait By A Nation event has

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undoubtedly grown in size since its initial outing in 2014 for the 44th National Day of Oman. Crunching down the numbers, we received entries from 1,500 contestants for 2016 – 300 more than last year – who registered either via drop boxes placed across various malls and schools around the country, online through our registration portal or as walk-in entries on the days of the event. This year, we also held the event in Sohar, Nizwa and Salalah. Hundreds of children gathered to take part in Y’s annual event – and we were impressed by the creativity of the children who were painting their portraits of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. With so many taking part, we had to split the competition into two weekends, with Salalah and Nizwa holding sessions on November 4, Sohar on November 5, and the Muscat on November 11 and 12. The total prize pot is RO2,550, with first, second and third place in each of the three age groups receiving RO500, RO250 and RO100 respectively. Presented by Al Mouj Muscat, powered by Shell Oman Marketing, and with associate sponsors A’Soud Global School, Atana Khasab, Atana Musandam, Burjeel Hospital, and IDdesign, as well as our venue partner the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel, this year’s Portrait By A Nation has been the most successful so far. “This has been an incredible experience for everybody involved,” says Y’s managing editor, Felicity Glover. “And every year, we are seeing the level of creativity rise. It’s been very

difficult to judge the competition this year as there have been so many entries at a very high level.” In total, we clocked a whopping 200 contestants – doubling our previous year’s record – in Salalah, and also 75 and 50 children from Sohar and

Nizwa respectively. Building on our event and learning from Portrait By A Nation in 2014 and 2015, Portrait By A Nation 2016 promised to be a whole lot bigger and better in many ways, and it certainly has delivered on this pledge. Of course, to do this we had to start by laying the foundations of Oman’s favourite art competition. We started by reaching out to the young artists across the country by inviting them to showcase their talent in this historic art competition, and one of the largest celebrations for National Day. Regardless of where the event is held, the rules are the same: depending on their age, the young participants are given one of three different pre-printed canvases, with those in the five to nine category getting the smallest and basic print – easy for the young budding talents – but enough to get creative with. Meanwhile, children in the 10 to 13 category received the harder, medium-size canvases. The 14 to 17 year olds were given the largest and most intricate portraits. At the event, everyone gets two hours to complete their entry in any way they wish. They can be as inventive as they like with the portraits, and the children are made aware that the judges are looking for flair and creativity, while there can be no intervention from mums and dads. Some of the materials and techniques used to complete the portraits included charcoal, coffee, rice and other pulses, pencils and pens, glitter, ribbons, velvet, acrylic paints, finger-painting, crayons and, in the case of our friend Akidat, also LED lights. Fourteen-year old Sana is one of the few who is painting the portrait using only coffee. When asked why she was using coffee instead of traditional paints, she says: “I like coffee and I would like to make my painting stand out from the others. That’s why I am using this ingredient in my work. I have also done this before at home but this is the first time that I am taking part in an art competition such as this.

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“I would firstly like to thank Y Magazine for organising such an event, and secondly, I am so happy to even be a part of the competition. Some of them are so talented that I am forced to step up my game. But I hope I win,” she says. Also standing out from the pack is 11-year-old Amal Krishna, who is using charcoal and black pencil to create his portrait. His father, Unnikrishnan, says: “This is the first time our son has participated at the Portrait By A Nation competition. We were actually supposed to come last year but he fell very ill, and we were forced to forfeit. “However, since then, he has grown as an artist. He has also started going to art classes. He started colouring and drawing when he was really young, because he used to feel very lonely at home. This was the only way to kill his boredom. “I feel that the Portrait By A Nation is the most professionally organised art competition in the entire country. Everything is laid out so well, and everything is very systematic,” Amal’s father adds. Also gracing the event is 13-year-old painter Salma, from the International School of Choueifat, who is taking the opportunity to present a portrait of His Majesty. “I am doing a realism portrait today,” says Salma. “I feel it is important to capture the effects of His Majesty very carefully. I think it is vital because he is the leader of the country, and there is a lot of emotion behind this competition. And capturing that emotion is my motto today.” Shaker Jalal, a well-known artist in Oman and the head of business development at HSBC, was one of the judges for this year’s Portrait By A Nation. He was very impressed and initially surprised by the quality of the paintings entered in the competition, thinking at first that the children had help from their parents. “To be honest, it was challenging to choose winners,” he says. “The way we see the creativity, if they continue like this, there will be a lot of artists from Oman. At first, I thought judging would be easy as they are kids but their art looks like it isn’t done by kids. It’s been a great experience!” Meanwhile, Ibrahim Gailani, another judge, agreed with Shaker, saying this year has been the most difficult for judging. “I think there was a higher level of creativity and I think that a lot of the children have learned from previous years,” he says.

“What I really liked about this year were the different portraits painted by each age group and how they worked with the complex patterns.” Meanwhile, back at the event, we also meet some familiar faces from our previous competitions. It is Riyam, the second prizewinner from our Portrait By A Nation competition in 2014 who is gracing this function – this time in the senior category. “I am using lots of colours to make the portrait stand out,” says Riyam. “Rather than just sticking to one colour, I think it is best to spread as much colour around the portrait as possible,” she adds. Leon Rafael Salinel, the corporate director of sales and marketing at Omran, one of the sponsors of the competition via its Atana Musdam and Atana Khasab resorts, was impressed not only by the competition, but also the finished portraits. As one of the judges, he said he loved the experience. “The whole experience is very new but the amount of work the children have put into it is really interesting,” he says. “You can really see the outpouring of love for His Majesty and I enjoyed it tremendously.” Umar Rabbani, father of five-year-old twin daughters, Aliha and Inaya; is also one of the many parents present at The Walk at Al Mouj to proudly watching his girls compete. “This is their first-ever art competition, I am proud to say. I was driving one afternoon to pick them up from school, and I heard an announcement about the event on the radio, and that’s how I got to know about it. “What I absolutely love about this event is that this is a great place to get together and produce some spectacular paintings. I don’t think of it as a place of competition. I think of it as a place for kids to get together and demonstrate their creativity and get some beautiful abstracts out. “I am sure some of them don’t even know the prize that they are going to win,” laughs Umar. He adds: “Some kids are not very outgoing but when they come to

I feel that the Portrait By A Nation is the most professionally organised art competition in the entire country. Everything is laid out so well, and everything is very systematic

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events like this, they get to get together. “And another important thing is that is in this age of Androids and iPhones, events such as this one help in getting kids to join in on group activities to forge some amazing works and also put their natural talents to work. “Y Magazine is doing an amazingly good job and I think you do a great job for the youngsters with this event. Keep up the good work and please do not stop,” he chuckles, just as his daughter Aliha hands us her painting. Now that the judging has been completed, the winners from the 46 finalists will be announced at a special

& lazem A d hale os: K Phot

ceremony at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel on November 20. There’s a total cash prize pool of RO2,550 at stake, as well as a one-year art scholarship thanks to our associate sponsor A’Soud Global School (AGS) in the five to nine year category. The Sultan Qaboos Art Scholarship, which is provided by Al Najah Education, offers the winner a 50 per cent reduction in school fees at AGS – a saving of at least RO2,000. Who will win is anybody’s guess, but you’ll get to meet the winners and the finalists in next week’s issue of Y Magazine. Stay tuned!

Y Team

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DRIVEN by PRIDE As the Sultanate celebrates its 46th National Day, thousands of car owners around the capital have put their love of the country on show with their specially decorated vehicles. Shaquel al Balushi checks them out

t’s an annual tradition that has been around for years: decorating our cars for Oman’s National Day. At the beginning of November, you will start to notice a growing number of cars plying the highways and side streets of Muscat – all of them decked out in a colourful array of designs, stickers and decorations. And as each year passes, there will be a new design trend. For a while, it was all about stickers, from beautiful portraits of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said to Oman’s flag and strips of red, white and green. This year, it’s all about swirling hand-painted designs, similar to the intricate patterns of henna tattoos, only in red, white and green. According to Syed Zamir al Hasan, a signboard artist who owns the Artist Studio in Seeb Souq, his business starts picking up at the beginning of November and this year he’s seen a change in car decorations. “Many people want hand-painted designs this year,” says Syed. “I am very busy and am averaging three cars a day.”

Syed first paints his stunning swirling designs on cars in white, then he adds the national colours of Oman’s flag to his creation. “This is to show love and appreciation for the country that has given us a job – and this is one way of showing this in the form of art.” One of Syed’s customers is 21-year-old Yaqkhan al Yousefi, who owns a Nissan Z car. The pale grey colour of his car is the perfect canvas for Syed to work on and Yaqkhan is very happy with the result. “I did this for the love of my country,” he says. “This is to show that we love His Majesty The Sultan. It’s worth it because no money can compare to my love for His Majesty.” In previous years, Yaqkhan says he decorated his car with flags and stickers, but this year he wanted something different. “Hand painting the cars is the trend now. Last year, I did the stickers but this year I wanted to do this because a lot of people are doing the paint. But I won’t wash my car until after National Day.” According to the Royal Oman Police, car owners can decorate their vehicles as part of the 46th National Day celebrations, but this must be removed by November 30. In a tweet earlier this month, the ROP also warned that action would be taken against motorists who failed to clean their cars by the deadline, while it was against the law to cover the front and back windows.

“MANY PEOPLE WANT HANDPAINTED DESIGNS THIS YEAR. I AM VERY BUSY AND AM AVERAGING THREE CARS A DAY.”

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FOOD AND DRINK

TURKEY TIME

Thanksgiving in America is all about family, friends and a delicious meal featuring turkey.

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Trend

New Restaurant

Reviews

GIVING THANKS Make your Thanksgiving dinner a triumph by cooking a traditional turkey topped with a tasty twist on sweet potatoes

elebrating the US Thanksgiving holiday (November 24) far from home can be difficult for some expats, not least if you find yourself doing all the preparations on your own. While the turkey typically receives all the attention, rounding out your meal with perfect snacks, sides and desserts is the key to a successful feast. One terrific turkey Centring your holiday meal around a turkey cooked to golden perfection is the ideal way to serve the feast. Without the right preparation and execution, however, your bird could fall short. To ensure your holiday dinner centrepiece lives up to expectations, follow these simple tips, from purchase to plate: 1. Buy the right bird Finding a turkey that’s just the right size for your expected party is the ideal start to a successful gathering. One rule of thumb is to allocate 450g of turkey per person – so for a 10-person meal, buy a 4.6kg turkey. Don’t forget that nearly everyone loves leftovers so a few extra grams won’t go amiss. 2. Be patient If you opt for a frozen turkey, don’t rush the thawing process, and this must be undertaken with great care. Larger turkeys can take several days to defrost properly, at room temperature. If you’re unsure about how to defrost, check out the website www.bernardmatthews.com. It offers

an excellent guide and will calculate defrosting times based on the size and type of your bird. 3. Prepare and cook the turkey After the turkey is defrosted, remove any giblets. Check there aren’t any ice crystals inside and pat dry using kitchen paper. Before it goes in the oven, make sure the bird is at room temperature. Put it on a roasting tray with room to spare so that any juices have room to seep out. Cover with tin foil, set your oven to 190C, and in it goes. For cooking times, as a rough guide; if the turkey is more than 4kg, cook for 20 minutes per kilo plus 90 minutes. If less than 4kg, it’s 20 minutes per kilo plus 70 minutes. 4. Let it stand Instead of pulling the turkey out of the oven and immediately carving it, let it stand for 20 to 30 minutes, which will allow the juices to soak into the meat and moisten it. Make sure the bird is thoroughly cooked throughout. It should be piping hot, there should be no pink where the meat is at its thickest, and when piercing the bird (usually at the thigh), the juices that run out should be clear. When using the turkey for leftovers, don’t reheat more than once, refrain from storing any meat at the bottom of the fridge and never place against any uncooked meat. Visit stacyssnacks.com for more chef-worthy holiday recipes and pairings, or go to McCormick.com for delicious seasonal ideas.

NYC-Style Pita Chips with Herbed Ricotta and Arugula Serves: 6 Ingredients: § 120g fresh ricotta cheese § 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped § 55g baby arugula leaves § 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil § 1/4 tsp kosher salt § 12 Stacy’s Simply Naked Pita Chips (or similar)

§ Top each chip with small dollop of the ricotta mix and leaf of baby arugula then drizzle with the olive oil. Season with salt.

Method: § Scoop the ricotta into a small bowl, add the chopped thyme and mix well. On a serving platter, lay out 12 pita chips.

Slow Cooker-mashed Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows Prep time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 4 hours, 10 minutes Serves: 8

§ Cook for four hours on high or until the potatoes are tender, stirring after each hour. Stir Ingredients: in the butter, cinnamon, salt § 2.2kg sweet potatoes, peeled and nutmeg. Cover. Let stand and cut into cubes for five minutes. § 1/2 cup Kitchen Basics Original § Beat the potatoes using an Chicken Stock electric mixer on a medium§ 1/4 cup firmly packed brown high speed until smooth. Top sugar with marshmallows. Cover. § 4 tbsp butter, cut into chunks Cook for 10 minutes on high § 2 tsp McCormick Ground or until the marshmallows Cinnamon are slightly melted. § 1 tsp salt § 1/2 tsp McCormick Ground Nutmeg § 2 cups miniature marshmallows Method: § Spray inside a 7-litre slow cooker with a non-stick cooking spray. Add the sweet potatoes, stock and brown sugar. Cover.

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FOOD AND DRINK

Tr e n d

New Restaurant

d i M ket r Ma

REVIEWS

Info Box EATALIAN

Oman Avenues Mall Third floor Tel: 2206 0025 Opening hours: Daily Dinner for one: RO15.6

ITALIAN, BY DESIGN

Verdict : 9/10 SERVICE 8/10 FOOD 9/10 AMBIENCE Exquisite Italian cuisine and a service to match. Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

TUCKED AWAY ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF OMAN AVENUES MALL IS EATALIAN, A RESTAURANT THAT SERVES LARGE PORTIONS AND HOMELY COMFORT FOOD, WRITES ALVIN THOMAS

love Italian food. I even love Italy in general, for that matter. As a matter of fact, sitting down with a few slices of pizza post-dinner on my couch and binge-watching on The Godfather movie series is what I would call a perfect Friday evening. So there’s no doubt that when I get to choose a restaurant for a Taste Test, I’m almost certainly going to choose an Italian one. And therefore, my spot for dining this week is Eatalian at Oman Avenues Mall. Finding the restaurant is a doddle, considering it is one of the few restaurants that actually take up space on the third floor of the mall. And Eatalian isn’t like some of its other counterparts from the lower levels: you actually have the option to dine inside, near the kitchen or simply take one of the many seats outside. And because it is situated adjacent to Gold’s Gym, you could devise an evil plot to showcase some of your delightful Italian cuisine to the hardworking men and women inside the gym. Why not, right? Walking into the restaurant, I am instantly bowled over by the traditional pizza oven although it is actually finished in garnet red and not bricks, but who cares? In any case, I decide to seat myself near the stove to catch a whiff of the freshly-baked pizzas. Mmm… smells delicious. Meanwhile, the waiter, a kind and welcoming fella, brings me a very simple-looking menu with just a couple images. It is all a bit confusing for me so I ask the waiter to surprise me with both the antipasti (starter) and the main course. But if you’re willing to go through the entire menu,

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there’s a range of dishes, pastas, pizzas, beverages and desserts to choose from. Surprisingly, within two minutes of taking my order, the waiter brings me a plate of Parmesan bread, accompanied with a bowl of olive tapenade. I dig in without any hesitation. The tapenade turns out to be a tad too sour for my taste but the bread is extremely fluffy and delightful. Next to arrive is my drink – a Lemon Curacao. It tastes very much like a stronger version of 7Up, only with a tad more punch to it. But at RO3, the serving is very generous, and the lemon slices really spruce things up a notch. Not long after, my starter – the Italian cheese ravioli – arrives. It seems a tad overdone but the little dumplings are filled with generous amounts of mozzarella, cheddar, blue and goat’s cheese. Despite the niggle, I instantly declare to the waiter that this is the best ravioli I’ve ever had. Apart from that, the portion size is lavish too,

meaning I can’t get through it. I assume this serving is meant to feed at least two people. By now I am stuffed but the waiter proceeds to bring me my main course: creamy Parmesan chicken. It isn’t the most pleasing dish to look at but it tastes heavenly. The ingredients are all fairly straightforward: there are three large slices of chicken breast, served with a side of orzo (short-cut pasta shaped like rice); plenty of cream; Parmesan; all topped off with a small slice of sundried tomato. The orzo is smooth, soft and very well cooked, if a bit too soggy for my liking. But there’s definitely an aura of Italian-ness to the dish despite its messy presentation. Nevertheless, without a doubt, it is the chicken that steals the show. It is well cooked and extremely tender, adding to the overall appeal of the dish. Even then, I can’t finish it and have to let go of it half way through. Really folks, there really is that much per plate! Thanks to that, I also can’t make room for any dessert, so I go for the bill. Overall, I really like Eatalian. I think it is a perfect setting for a small family gathering, with its almost discreet setting at the mall that is away from all the commotion. Moreover, the food is nice and the portions are abundant. I can’t find much fault with Eatalian so it is safe to say that I will be coming back here soon, especially to try the desserts and the pizzas. Grazie, Italia! Do you have a favourite restaurant that you’d like to see reviewed? Let Y know at editor@y-oman.com

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

GEEK GIRL

The tween/teen nerdy look has made it to the high street and is no longer confined to hip gamer girls sporting high tops, bomber jackets and quirky accessories, such as this look from River Island.

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Health

Beauty

FASHION

k o o L e h

, reet look t s igh t the h e th to ge o t end ps you h g l i e h ver he h t Glo From y t i c Feli

T t Ge

A basic black dress is a blank canvas that allows you to add elements of your personality, such as this M&Co “Kylie” studded velour cold shoulder dress. From RO9.5

Be your own star and add a bright pop of colour to your outfit, such as this asymmetrical dress from M&Co. Team with a bomber jacket to complete your look. From RO8.6

Rock the geek girl look in this fun, sequined bomber jacket from Primark – it’s a perfect match for dresses, jeans and leggings. From RO4.7

Put some sparkle in your hair with these cute cosmic toweling hair ties from Accessorize. From RO1.9

A girl’s got to have a backpack for all those gaming accessories, comic books and smart devices, such as this one from Superdry. From RO21.5

A baseball cap, such as this one from Next, tops off the look – and is great way to keep your hair out of your eyes while you take in some serious gaming. From RO5.7

These leather lace-up ankle boots from New Look are a must-have for girls wanting to nail the geek look. From RO14.3

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

BEAUTY

Health Fashion

IN GLOWING TERMS Following a skin regime a few months before your wedding will render both bride and groom radiant on the day, says an expert at Burjeel Hospital

he wedding season is around the corner, and the bride’s (and to an extent, the groom’s) major concern would naturally be how to look great on the day. However, looking after one’s skin is not something that should be a quick fix, and skin treatment should not start a couple of days before the big day but several months before, advises Dr Amina Kaushar, the chief dermatologist at Burjeel Hospital. “A skin treatment regime must start at least a couple of months before the wedding day to achieve best results. There are lots of procedures available, like laser hair removal, chemical or AHA peels, botox injections or microdermabrasion, each of which focus on specific needs,” says Amina. “An innovative treatment that restores the glow to your face, especially after the daily grind leaves it dull and lifeless, is the Mesoglow treatment. Using tiny injections and a vitamin concoction, your skin will regain its moisture in just a couple of sessions,” she says. Burjeel Hospital has set up an innovative dermatology unit in the Sultanate that boasts state-of-the-art facilities and advanced expertise on a par with international standards, offering 360-degree skin treatment solutions.

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Sun exposure, pigmentation, scars, and everyday pollution can leave our skin dull, and lifeless, says Amina. “Microdermabrasion or skin polishing is a wonderful method of exfoliating the lifeless upper crust of the skin and replacing it with a new fresh layer of skin. As tiny crystals are sprayed and rolled over the skin, they will gently remove the dull and damaged layer of the skin. “To the list of stresses that include the honeymoon and countless lunches and dinners in your first few months as a bride, you would definitely not want to add the tension of regular waxing and shaving. Laser hair removal is a good solution in this context. By focusing a high energy beam of light on it, the procedure eliminates the chances of hair growing back. The process takes a few sessions so make sure you meet a dermatologist at least a couple of months before the wedding.” There are also medical facials that combine medical therapy and products with a beauty regime. Based on the skin type your dermatologist will personalise the treatment, says Amina. She also suggests plenty of sleep, drinking plenty of water, a proper diet, getting plenty of exercise and a proper skin care routine to look gorgeous on your wedding day.

“No matter what, make sure you get seven or eight hours of sleep a night for the month leading up to your wedding. Both your mind and body need it. Furthermore, drink at least eight glasses of water daily, as exhaustion can cause dehydration. Skin suffers a lot if you’re not hydrating it enough from within. Carry a bottle everywhere, whether you’re at home or out. “You must also identify and ditch the dangerous stuff from your diet. Skip sugary foods and everything fried, even though the temptation to dig into comfort food will increase with every wedding-related crisis. It’s better to stick to a sorbet or fruity custard, and keep your meals as light and nutritious as possible. “Take a walk, for at least 20 minutes a day. Apart from the obvious physical benefits it’ll give you some much-needed time to yourself.” It’s also important to cleanse, tone and moisturise your skin every morning and night by using a good skincare range. Dr Amina says: “Cleansing your face twice a day is a must so that dirt and toxins are washed off. Toning closes your pores after cleansing and moisturising hydrates your skin, making it supple. Ideally, you should start treatment for your face, body and hair around six months before your wedding.”

Beauty

Fashion

HEALTH

BEAT THOSE BUGS

Practical tips on combatting cold and flu during the cooler months in Oman

hen the cold and flu season strikes, many people in the Sultanate find themselves coughing, sneezing, congested, aching, uncomfortable – and sometimes, downright miserable. The widespread prevalence of these symptoms sweeps the country each year and affects people of all ages. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, adults can catch an average of two to three colds per year while children suffer even more, especially during the colder months. “The cold and flu (influenza) are both highly contagious viral infections,” says Dr Keri Peterson, a New York-based doctor. “While they spread easily, there are some easy measures that families can take to protect themselves from getting infected, even while they are sick, to prevent prolonged illness and recover more quickly.” To protect you and your family, and to prevent the spread of illness, Peterson offers these tips for navigating the cold and flu season: • Wash your hands with soap and water

regularly, especially after touching dirty surfaces like doorknobs and keyboards. Thorough washing should take as long as singing “Happy Birthday” twice. • Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth. These are direct entry points for germs. Most adults touch their face about 16 times a day, and children even more often, increasing the spread of germs. • Germs live on surfaces and spread to humans through skin contact so anything that you touch frequently can be a threat. Use disinfectant wipes to wipe down your workspace daily, as well as your telephone, mouse and keyboard. Make sure you regularly disinfect doorknobs and shared electronics like TV remotes. Also, wash your children’s toys after playtime. • Studies indicate flu viruses thrive best in cold and dry places, making winter air an ideal breeding ground. Use a humidifier to keep humidity levels in your home between 40 and 60 per cent to reduce viruses’ chances of survival. Humidifiers can also help relieve cold and flu symptoms and discomfort. An option such as the Vicks Filter-Free Cool

Mist Humidifier is a convenient way to help relieve congestion and coughs in children. For adults and children aged two and older, Vicks VapoSteam, paired with a warm mist humidifier or vaporiser, releases a medicated steam with a cough suppressant to help relieve coughs and colds. • Everyone six months of age and older should get a flu jab every year. Flu vaccination should take place soon after the vaccine becomes available to the public, preferably in October. • Watch your symptoms. Cold symptoms come on gradually and progress over time, typically starting with a sore throat, then a runny nose and eventually a cough. On the other hand, the flu hits fast and furious with the sudden onset of fever, aches, fatigue, cough and headache. • Fever can sometimes occur with a cold and is usually mild; with the flu it is common and higher, ranging from 37-38C. Taking your temperature with a thermometer is a good way to help determine which virus you have. Find more tips for fighting cold and flu at vickshumidifiers.com. – Family Features NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

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GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE GET YOUR FREE COPY OF Y AT THE FOLLOWING DISTRIBUTION POINTS… Capital Region Azaiba • Amara Dermatology Clinic • Audi showroom • Bentley showroom • Costa Coffee • Al Fair • Jaguar Showroom • Jeep Showroom • Al Maha Petrol Station • Mazda showroom • McDonald’s • Mitsubishi Showroom • Oman Arab Bank • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Peugeot Showroom • Range Rover Showroom • Sayarti Auto Care • Shell Select • Skoda Showroom • The Sultan Center • Volkswagen showroom • Volvo Showroom • Yamaha Showroom Bawshar • College of Banking and Financial Studies • Dolphin Village • Modern College of Business and Science • Muscat College • Muscat Private Hospital (Emergency and Outpatients) • Oman Medical College CBD • Al Maya Hypermarket • Alizz Islamic Bank • Bahwan Travel Agencies • Bank Sohar • Copper Chimney Restaurant • Costa Coffee • HSBC • Lama Polyclinic • NBO • Oman Arab Bank • Standard Chartered Bank • Woodlands Restaurant Darsait • Indian Social Club • Khimji’s Mart

•

KIMS Oman Hospital • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Bakery • Shell Petrol Station Al Falaj/Rex Road • Al Falaj Hotel • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Golden Oryx Restaurant • Kamat Restaurant • Toshiba Showroom Ghala • National Mineral Water Ghubra • Al Hayat International Hospital • Al Maya Hypermarket • Bank of Beirut • Costa Coffee • Crêpe Café • GMC Showroom • LuLu Hypermarket • Moka & More • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Park Inn • Porsche Showroom • Al Raffah Hospital • Stationery Hut • The Chedi Muscat Al Hail • Burger King • Caledonian College of Engineering • Markaz Al Bahja Mall • McDonald’s • Omantel • Starcare Hospital Al Khoudh • Al Fair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Pizza Hut Al Khuwair • Badr Al Samaa Hospital • Bait Al Reem Mall • Caffè Vergnano • Centrepoint (Splash) • Diplomatic Club • Grand Hyatt Muscat • Harley-Davidson Showroom • HSBC • KFC • Khimji’s Mart • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Landmark Group

• • •

McDonald’s Muscat Bakery Oman Bowling Center • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Oman United Insurance • Omran • Pizza Hut • Radisson Blu • Shell Petrol Station • TGI Friday’s • The Great Kabab Factory • The Tikka Place • Zahara Travel • Zakher Mall Mabela • Gulf College Oman Mawalah • Chili’s Restaurant • Costa Coffee • Al Makan Café • The Noodle House • Starbucks • Tim Hortons • VLCC Wellness MBD • Bank Dhofar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Khimji’s Mart • NBO • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Pizza Hut • Pizza Muscat • Shell Petrol Station MGM • Caribou Coffee • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • Just Falafel • Ooredoo • Paul • Tim Hortons Al Mina • Bait Al Baranda • Bait Al Zubair MQ • Al Fair • Arab Open University • British Council • Costa Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • Hana’s Slimming & Skincare Centre • Kargeen Caffe • KFC • MacKenzies Café & Deli • Mood Café • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Papa John’s Pizza

• •

Pizza Hut Saharz Beauty Salon • Starbucks Al Murtafa’a • Bank Muscat • KFC • Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club Muscat International Airport • Caribou Coffee • Majan Lounge • Plaza Premium Lounge Mussanah • Millennium Resort Muttrah • Shell Petrol Station Qantab • Al Bustan Palace • Marina Bandar Al Rowdha • Oman Dive Center • Shangri-La Qurum • Al Araimi Complex • Balance Health & Fitness • Bank Nizwa • BMW showroom • Burger King • Chili’s Restaurant • Crowne Plaza • Finland Eye Center • Fun Zone • Gloria Jean’s Coffees • The Jungle Restaurant • Left Bank • McDonald’s • Mercedes-Benz Showroom • Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant • Nandos • Nissan Showroom • Oman Oil Petrol Station • Pizza Hut • Qurum Commercial Complex • Ras Al Hamra Club • SABCO Centre • Second Cup • Starbucks • The Sultan Center • Tche Tche Café Rusayl • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -1 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -2 • Knowledge Oasis Muscat -3

•

Knowledge Oasis Muscat -4 (ITA) • Middle East College • Omantel • Waljat College of Applied Sciences Ruwi • Apollo Medical Centre • Kamat Restaurant • KFC • Khimji’s Mega Store – Swarovski Showroom • Khimji’s Watches • KM Trading • Oman Air • Oman UAE Exchange • Oman Trading Establishment • Saravana Bhavan Sarooj • Al Fair • Al Masa Mall • City Cinema • Ayana Spa • Cosmeclic • Emirates Medical Center • McDonald’s • Shell Petrol Station • VLCC Wellness Sawadi • Al Sawadi Beach Resort Seeb • Golden Tulip Hotel • McDonald’s Shatti Al Qurum • Bareeq Al Shatti Complex • Caribou Coffee • D’Arcy’s Kitchen • German Eye Centre • The Indus Restaurant • InterContinental Hotel Muscat • Jawharat Al Shatti Complex • Kaya Skin Clinic • Muscat Eye Laser Center • Oasis By The Sea • Second Cup • Starbucks • VLCC Wellness Sifah • Sifawy Boutique Hotel SQU • Diplomatic Club • College of Economics and

Political Science Students Banking Area • Reception/ Canteen Wadi Kabir • Al Maya Hypermarket • LuLu Hypermarket • Muscat Pharmacy • National Hospitality Institute • Pizza Hut • Shell Petrol Station Wattayah • Ahli Bank • Best cars • BLS International Services • Chevorlet/GM showroom • Ford Showroom • Hatat House • Honda Showroom • Hyundai showroom • Kia Showroom • Lexus Showroom • National Travel & Tourism • Passage To India Restaurant • Shell Petrol Station • Subaru showroom • Suzuki Showroom • Toyota Showroom The Wave • Almouj Golf • Costa Coffee • Oman Sail • Shakespeare & Co. • The Wave Head Office •

Other Regions Barka • Al Nahda Spa and Resort • LuLu Hypermarket Nizwa • University of Nizwa Sohar • Centrepoint (Splash) • Crowne Plaza • National Gift Markets • Ooredoo • Pizza Hut • Safeer Mall • Sohar Beach Hotel • Sohar Port and Freezone • Sohar University

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Postcards from

Y- F i

Outdoors

Cars

CARS AND ADVENTURES

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH

The desolate, shimmering landscape around Wadi Lahloo is a great place to find serenity for the lone explorer.

NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E S T I N AT I O N P o s t c a r d s f r o m

Y- F i

Outdoors

Destination

WADI LAHLOO Shaquel al Balushi takes a solo trip to a deserted spot and finds that, for him, solitude can mean splendid isolation 038

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Cars

a side note, my friends informed me that there is a tiny location in Yiti named Tunis. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find it. Wadi Lahloo is a fantastic destination to kick back, relax and experience a degree of human serenity from within. My solo drive inspired me to find my inner peace as an explorer again as that is why I started my Destinations in the first place.

can only describe my Destinations with one word, which is ‘serene’. Serenity is the sensation I feel every Thursday before I start my adventure. This trip was different but no less enjoyable – a solo trip to Wadi Lahloo in Yiti. I started off my morning at 4am. I packed my cooler with water, Mountain Dew and snacks. I made sure I had my hoodie with me as the weather is much cooler nowadays. That said, I started off my scenic one-and-a-half hour road trip to Yiti. My Destinations have taught me that the beauty of Muscat is most palpable in the early mornings. As I was driving, the purple hues were seeping through, the sounds of trucks were whizzing by and I was pumping up my energy (playing Sia’s hit tracks) as I approached the Al Saleel signpost to Yiti. Arriving at my destination meant an amazing off-road trip to the top hill. It’s an extra half-hour drive that exercises the strength and capabilities of drift enthusiasts and fourwheel-drive fanatics. I tested my Jeep’s endurance while being mindful of my own safety, and followed the winding pathway to the top of the hill. Wadi Lahloo is a deserted site and there are barely any villages nearby. Most of the dishevelled homes have been abandoned as the houses were built at the foothills of the mountains. Nevertheless, the view was breathtaking. I saw camels, birds’ nests, donkeys, and other creatures in their daily habitat. The landscape was a formation of high to low mountains that looked like a set from a wildlife action movie. The rocks were of a faded ochre with a glaring sheen that was the result of having been dispersed in water and dried over time. This is a solemn destination. A traveller will discover peace both from within and the beauty of his surroundings. On

TRAVEL GUIDE

HOW TO GET THERE It’s about a 40-minute drive to Yiti from Muscat. From Sultan Qaboos Highway, take Al Bustan Road and then exit at the turn-off to Qantab. Follow the signs to Yiti.

GPS location: N23°22’15.1” E58°40’41.0”

NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

Ana Moura’s performance at the Royal Opera House Muscat was a masterclass in how to deliver songs from the heart, says Georgina Benison

he passing of Leonard Cohen last week only reminds us of how songs that conjure the range of human emotion, performed with world-weary melancholy, continue to resonate with us. And there are few better exponents of how to simultaneously beguile and empathise with the listener than Ana Moura, the Portuguese Fado singer. Moura’s performance to a sold-out auditorium at the Royal Opera House Muscat showcased a unique talent, and also a fresh take on the Portuguese song genre. Fado means destiny or fate and is an intensely emotional style of singing, which originated in the small bodegas or cafes in early 19th-century Lisbon. It is Portugal’s answer to the Blues, bemoaning the perils of the sea for fishermen and the hopelessness of poverty. Traditional lyrics reflect an overriding feeling of longing, loss and irreparable damage. For her show, Moura brought with her five of the best musicians from that small Iberian country, resulting in a rock fusion with electronic influences. The show opened with a haunting lone synthesiser melody played by Joao Gomes on a darkened stage. The effect was arresting, and put the mood firmly into the 21st century. As the lights gradually went up, four other men in black were revealed, joining in with clear Hispanic rhythms – but with no singer in sight. Suddenly a huge filmic projection appeared behind the band, of butterflies flitting across Moura’s portrait. She slipped on from stage right with a casual wave to the audience, microphone in hand, threw her head back and began to sing. She has a smoky, strong voice, perfectly placed and impossibly sensuous. 040

NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

SOU IBER Ana Moura is a singer with a compelling demeanour and is a performer to keep an eye on. Her slight figure clad in a slinky, black, sequinned and tassled dress, with her long brunette tresses falling around her expressive face, simply accentuate the poignancy of her songs Yet Ana Moura fuses the melancholy Fado genre with contemporary ideas, Brazilian rhythms and dancing. Her incredible drummer, Mario Costa, enables this crossover with amazing dexterity. Her second, lively song was accompanied by distorted vintage visuals of legs and feet dancing in a bygone era. And the third song similarly had the joy of South American Tango and Samba underpinning her impassioned vocals. There were many Portuguese speakers in the house that night, but for most of us the language was unfamiliar. For me, the evening’s highlight came when the stage darkened again and just Ana and her Portuguese guitarist (or guitarra Portuguesa, with 12 steel strings) Angelo Freire, remained alone in a pool of light, which conjured up the smoky intimacy of the old Fados (Fado houses). Ana’s silhouette could be seen sipping from a tall glass during an extended, breathtaking virtuoso solo by Freire, and then she sang, plummeting to the depths of despair in this plaintive and desperate Fado ballad. The suspense and illusion remained for two songs, and then the rest of the band came on again. She announced that the next song had been created during a project with Mick Jagger in 2007, and she sang No Expectations in English then Portuguese. Next, an instrumental set allowed each musician a chance to solo and develop their contribution to the performance in a 21st-century medium. Pedro Soares, on Spanish classical guitar, is a professional soloist in his own right, and Andre Moreira excels on an unusual 5-string bass. The concert ended with her signature song, Desfado, and the audience went out into the night, clapping along with echoes of Moura’s distinct and memorable elegance.

UL SISTERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RIAN ODYSSEY

NOV 17 - 23 / ISSUE 445

041

-FI THE TECH IN YOU

Outdoors

D e s t i n at i o n

Y-FI

ADVENTURE TIME Thinking of exploring the great outdoors? If so, then it’s time to break out the tech and explore. These adventure gadgets are sure to help enrich your experience and keep you safe, says Matthew Herbst

CONNECTED

TIME TRACKER

This nifty gadget is especially for those who like to venture deep into the wild. However much you like adventure it is always good to know that you have a safety net back to civilisation. That’s when Spot Satellite comes into play. We all know that smartphones can’t always give you a connection when you need it. In case of an emergency, the Spot Satellite allows you to share your location, travel pattern and status with friends and family as needed. At www. amazon.co.uk, from RO52

Over the years, Casio has earned its tough title with the infamous G-Shock. Building on that success, it’s now offering greater and smarter tech made for taking on the wilderness. Meet the latest Casio WSD-F10. It’s built to military specifications, which also means it is water-resistant to 50 metres and has a dual-layer display that switches between colour and monochrome to save battery. It also offers the best outdoor viewing as needed, depending on conditions. Its Smart sensors deliver waypoint navigation, altimeter measurements, atmospheric pressure, sunrise and sunset plus tides. Check it out and invest in one at www.amazon.com from RO195

MEET EARL When your smartphone or iPad doesn’t cut it in the great outdoors, you need the Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet. This handy device packs a mighty punch for hikers and extreme wilderness lovers alike as it features a variety of maps, a GPS, compass, radio receiver and two-way communication capability. Not bad for an Android-powered device that also works well in all weather situations. This adventure tablet has a six-inch display and is also solar-powered, which means you will never get lost or lose communication with the real world. Pre-order at www.meetearl.com from RO96.2

WILD SESSIONS

EDITOR’S PICK

IMAGINE THIS. YOU’RE OUT ON YOUR WILD ADVENTURE, YOU HAVE JUST DISCOVERED THE MOST INCREDIBLE SPOT BUT YOU WANT TO RECORD YOUR ADVENTURES FOR EVERYONE TO SEE. MOST IMPORTANTLY YOU DON’T WANT TO LOSE THE USE OF YOUR HANDS BY HOLDING A VIDEO CAMERA. WELL, NO NEED TO PANIC. YOU CAN IMPROVE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE LATEST ACTION CAM. THE GOPRO HERO SESSION IS EVEN BETTER THAN ITS PREDECESSORS. ITS TINY AND MUCH LIGHTER. IT’S ALSO WATERPROOF, AND CAN HANDLE ANYTHING YOU PUT IT THROUGH. GO WILD. AT WWW.AMAZON.COM FROM RO72

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UNCHARTERED 4: A THIEF’S END

or those of you who are fond of action/adventuretitle games on consoles, the Unchartered series may just be in your list of Top 10 gaming titles Info Box of all time – and why not? With its well-woven Genre: storylines, hair-raising adventure gameplay and ACTION/ADVENTURE admirable graphics, the Unchartered series has never Platform: disappointed its fans. PLAYSTATION 4 Now in its final instalment, Unchartered 4: A Thief’s DEVELOPER NAUGHTY End, aims not only to appease loyal fans of thirdDOG person action games but also create a perfect finale for Rating: MATURE 17+ protagonist, Nathan Drake. So, it is not just jumping from trains and dangling over a cliff this time; it is running across rooftops, climbing windows and a lot more besides as the buildings around him collapse. Of course, developers Naughty Dog haven’t changed anything from the original recipe – staying true to its initial trio of games – with a flurry of cutscenes taking you around the gorgeous (almost cinematic) city, plenty of superlative action and adventure, as well as a fair bit of drama. Also making an appearance for the first time is Nathan’s brother, Sam. In certain ways Sam is the crux of the game, as he forces Nathan to embark on an adventure to find the lost, ancient city of Libertalia – a haven for pirates – believed to be hidden somewhere in Madagascar. A hint of this being the “one last job” is dropped early in the story and if you have played any of the prequels, you will find all action scenarios to be fairly familiar. But there’s still a sense of satisfaction when you knock out a villain mercenary using your handcrafted dagger. The enhanced graphics also make way for an almost sensuous experience. However, the release of the PlayStation VR (virtual reality gear) should make playing the game all the more entertaining. Review by Alvin Thomas

App of the Week

YONDER If you like sharing your adventures, then Yonder is just what you need. It allows users to easily share experiences whether they’re hiking, biking or camping with a huge network of other outdoor lovers. You can also browse through a database showing more than 200,000 destinations, as well as follow others and view their activity streams, or explore nearby locations through maps provided. It’s great for finding out about nearby locations as well as networking with other outdoor enthusiasts. Free at iTunes

JULY NOV 03 17 - 23 09 / ISSUE 445 327

045

CARS AND ADVENTURES

Destination

Postcards from

Outdoors

Y- F i C A R S

As the competitive SUV market shapes up for another bumper year, Alvin Thomas looks at three rivals gearing up to get ahead of the pack

here was a time in the Sultanate when Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) were only owned by a select few. The necessities of owning an SUV were simple: it had to give the driver some presence on the road when cruising around the city and when the time was right, it had to bash the desert dunes without breaking sweat. However, as families in the Sultanate continue to grow, so do their automotive requirements. Families tend to enjoy the sheer comfort, versatility and practicality these vehicles offer and, as a result, more SUVs roll onto the roads today than ever before. But come 2017, Oman will be getting ready to welcome a host of new SUVs, one of which could soon become your next big investment. Y takes a look at what’s worth waiting for.

2017 Volkswagen Atlas

Volkswagen fans, rejoice! For the first time ever, the German car giant will be selling you a sevenseater SUV. This move should come as quite a surprise to those who opted out of buying the marginally smaller Touareg due to its lack of third-row seating. This is because the Atlas, while larger than its sibling, is still only based on the MQB platform that underpins smaller cars like the VW Golf and the Audi A3. But VW promises ample space for passengers in the second and third rows. Underneath the bonnet, you could either have a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine breathing out 238hp or a more potent 3.6-litre V6 engine pumping out 280hp. Both these engines will be mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, meaning the acceleration will be silky smooth and the gear changes lightning quick. Despite its German fascia, however, we’re still not completely

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sold on its looks. Expect to see it in showrooms sometime later next year.

2017 Jeep Compass

Is it an SUV? Is it a crossover? We can’t be too sure. However, the reason why we have added the Compass to our list is because of its capabilities as an off-roader. The Compass will technically fall into a list of small C-Segment SUVs but will still be wedged in between the brand’s tiny Renegade and large Cherokee. If you look closely, the Compass also bears a resemblance to the larger Cherokee, translating to a spacious interior as well as a sporty exterior. And because FIAT Chrysler Automotive is now involved in the production of Jeep vehicles, you could also opt for a variety of engine options. Our sources say that the Compass could be had with 17 different engine choices. So if you’re only going to cruise around town, you could ideally stick to the small 2.0-litre in-line four cylinder turbocharged engine, or upgrade all the way to a Cherokee engine for more added grunt. We’re keeping a close look at the Compass, and will update you with a review as soon as it hits the Middle Eastern market. We estimate the SUV to be available in showrooms early next year.

2017 Honda CR-V

Back in the day, if you were looking for a handsome SUV with ample amounts of space and practicality, you would simply head into a Toyota or Nissan showroom. However, for 2017, Honda is bringing the fight to its rivals with the all-new CR-V, which has been redesigned from the ground up.

For starters, it looks quite butch and in tone with the brand’s new styling nomenclature – much like the new Civic, which we absolutely adore – while still maintaining the hexagonal grille and a new version of their pillar-mounted tail lights. The CR-V will feature a 184hp 2.4-litre fourcylinder in base variants and perhaps a 190hp turbo 1.5-litre four-cylinder in mid-spec and top trim levels. All engines will be sending power to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic to either the front wheels or all wheels depending on variant. We haven’t had a go in it yet but judging from the pictures, we still think that the new CR-V has undergone a radical change in the interior with a newer looking touchscreen as well as better-looking interior trim pieces. Expect to see this in showrooms mid-2017.

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