Y Magazine #508, February 22, 2018

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FEB 22 - 28 2018 / ISSUE 508 • WEEKLY

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WHY DOES THE FAMED FRAGRANCE OF OMAN FACE A DROP IN PRODUCTION?

MASTER MIND

01

NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258

24

CALL OF OOTY

36

FUTURE IS NOW

38

EDITOR’S

NOTE

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

Offer Valid till 28th February, 2018

Fast forward

MOH NO 268/2018

I

s the frankincense tree really on the verge of extinction? Well, the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) and members of its ilk seem to think so. And if the concerns they raise are true, then it’s time we raise the red flag.

There’s no other way to put it: The frankincense was the greatest entity that ran the nation’s economy in the early days of its existence. It is even believed that the Queen of Sheba used to avail her precious perfumes from Oman. To put that into context, the resin was valued higher than gold at one point.

Of course, things are a bit different now. You can buy a pack of frankincense from the souks for about RO2 – so it’s affordable. But all of this has led to a new trend: declining stockpile due to the destruction of trees due to overharvesting and overgrazing.

This could spell doom for those who have relied on this for their livelihood for centuries. And as our team elucidates in the cover story, more “honest” traders and sellers are losing their jobs owing to the rise of illegal traders. This will change, though, as the ESO is taking strict steps to curb all forms of activities that may harm this ageold tradition.

But whether Oman will still be home to the beloved frankincense 20 years from now is a question we struggle to answer.

On a lighter note, we successfully concluded our Portrait By A Nation art competition this week, and are proceeding to launch our new campaign to honour the mothers around the world.

Have a great week!

editor@y-oman.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi SENIOR ONLINE EDITOR Nishad Padiyarath ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

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FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

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contents

FEBRUARY 22 - 28 2018

Your Oman

This Week

08 Voice Of Oman

Hasan al Lawati 10 News

New law for expat

doctors in Oman 12 Gallery

NBO Open concludes

successful first edition

18

Holi Time Join the crowds and indulge in an evening of fun and frolic at the ‘Festival of Colours’.

19 Movies

Den of Thieves to hit

theatres this week

19

10

20 Scent of Trouble

Frankincense trees are

slowly dying, and this

spells trouble for those

relying on the resin for

their livelihood. We

investigate the harsh reality 26 Portrait By A Nation

We announce the

winners of our

prestigious art competition

20

Food and Drink 44 Food Feature

Quick meals

Cars and Adventures 32 Destination

Sifat al Sheikh

46 Taste Test

Kamat Restaurant

Health and Beauty

34 First Drive

Maserati Ghibli 38 Y-Fi

Futuristic gadgets

39

Features

38 Fashion

Posh ‘n’ Boots 41 Health

Maintain a healthy diet

44

38

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THE VOICE OF OMAN YOUNG ARTISTS AT THE PORTRAIT BY A NATION FINALE IMPRESSED EVERYONE WITH THEIR SHOW OF SKILL, BUT THE SULTANATE SHOULD DO MORE TO PROMOTE EXPRESSION OF THOUGHTS AND IDEAS, FEELS HASAN AL LAWATI

correspondence DEBATE OF THE WEEK WE ASKED: We asked: The use of tobacco is on the rise in Oman and the Ministry of Health is planning to double the tax on it. Do you think this will help reduce the usage?

SUNIL JOHN MARTIN

M

ost Omani artists do not solely depend on painting and sculpting to make a living, and the last blow they need is to have their works removed from galleries for “violating social norms”.

Months ago I spoke to Omani painters and artists who voiced their frustration over the people’s lack of interest in purchasing or even appreciating works of art.

Despite the ceaseless efforts put in by museums and art galleries to put emerging young artists in the limelight, audiences for art exhibitions are sparse here. You can barely see new faces at these events.

But last Monday I was filled with optimism about our art scene watching kids in the 5 to 14 age group display their highly creative paintings of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos at the annual Portrait By A Nation contest.

Such initiatives encourage young artists to expand their imagination.

A child showcased a brilliant painting of His Majesty the Sultan drawn with a blue ballpoint pen; another chose to use funky and bright colours to design what was meant to be an official portrait.

And I was so happy to see the proud parents of the 47 children cheering and applauding their little artists.

Most international cities have daily art shows to inspire younger generations of artists to pursue their dreams. I think the Sultanate should further facilitate expression of thoughts and ideas by providing room for emerging artists, fashion designers and movie makers.

Events like Portrait By A Nation offer kids with perfect platforms to display their talent and get the encouragement they deserve to brush upon their skill. The more such events, the merrier.

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Doubling the tax on tobacco will not help since the addict will pay whatever to get a smoke.

Rather, awareness campaigns could work wonders. Smokers have to take the statutory warning seriously. Remember, the first Marlboro Man died of lung cancer at the age of 51. His last words were: “Take care of the children.

Tobacco will kill you, and I am living proof of it.” It is believed that another three Marlboro Men succumbed to smoking-related diseases.

REEMA MEHTA

Yes, it will reduce usage. Tobacco products will be more expensive and hence they may not be affordable to the common man. It’s one of the best ways to control the use of tobacco.

ANSHU GOYAL

Obviously, it will not help until the ministry banned all the tobacco products.

The authorities should give priority to saving human life. I hope the country will take tougher decisions on the subject.

MOHAN ANANDAN

When the tax is increased, the consumers naturally take the hit as the manufacturers pass on the additional burden to them. However, for habitual users and addicts, price increase may not be a deterrent to reduce usage since the prices of tobacco products have been historically increasing and yet there has been no corresponding reduction in their usage. The focus should, therefore, be on increasing the awareness campaign about the serious health hazards of their use. Catch them young: let

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the campaigns and awareness commence from the school level. Print media, social media, visual media and other information networks may be used effectively to send the message across. Instances of smoking in public places and selling tobacco products to minors should also be monitored and fined.

NARENDRA SINGH

It’s a welcome step, but the impact will be short-lived. There will be an initial reluctance on the part of the users but after a short while, maybe a couple of weeks, they will be back to buying just as usual. Retail distribution should be strictly regulated to make general access to tobacco products highly difficult. The government should withdraw any form of incentive, if any, to the trade and manufacture of tobacco products to discourage businessman from entering into this trade. Effective education and mass awareness programmes could play an important role to stop the consumption of tobacco. Social boycott would also help.

PREETI CHACKO

Price increases as a result of tax hikes will help reduce smoking. Cigarette companies have always opposed tax increases by arguing that raising cigarette prices would not reduce adult or youth smoking. A tax increase that up the prices by 10 percent will reduce smoking among pregnant women by 7 percent, preventing thousands of spontaneous abortions and still-born births, and saving tens of thousands of newborns from suffering smokingaffected health consequences.

GAZI LOKMAN

‘No-smoking’ signboards should be put up in more

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public places. Smoking in public places affects the environment and put the health of non-smokers too at risk, so a better step will be an outright ban on smoking in public places.

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NIMMY ALEX

Doubling the tax on tobacco products is only one part the measures to make people stop using such products. Along with price increases, awareness should be spread so that everyone knows about the harm smoking causes not only to the users but also to those around them. It is important to spread such awareness: change has to come from within. Only when a person decides to stop using these products we’ll be able to help them.

ANTHONY CARLTON

Doubling taxes on tobacco will surely help increase government revenues. However, if the objective is to reduce tobacco consumption, there is very little evidence to prove otherwise. Sustainable solutions introduced in schools, colleges and in communities could help reduce smoking.

NEERAJ KUMAR

Doubling the tax alone cannot tackle the usage of tobacco. Along with this, effective campaigns to raise awareness regarding severe impacts of tobacco usage on health need to be carried out regularly. The Ministry of Health may introduce new legislation on the sales: its availability need to be strictly blocked near schools and colleges.

New Debate: The Ministry of Manpower has taken action against 199 establishments employing 16,544 people for not hiring Omani nationals. What are your thoughts?

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Y Magazine reader Allen Thomas took this picture of the Shatti Beach using his Nikon D4.

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 a few details about your photograph, such as the camera used.

PHOTO: Allen Thomas

FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

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YOUR

OMAN

T

he Ministry of Health has announced that certain expat doctors working in government hospitals can now work in private hospitals.

Doctors, including certain expats such as senior consultants working in public institutions, can now work in private medical facilities, according to ministerial decision No. 29/2018 by the Ministry of Health.

“Minister of Health Dr Ahmed Al Saidi has issued

NEWS

EXPAT GOVERNMENT

DOCTORS CAN WORK IN

PRIVATE HOSPITALS IN OMAN

a ministerial decision on regulations for doctors working in public medical sector to be able to work in private medical institutions during unofficial working hours,” the ministry said.

Previous ministerial decision No.151/2015 limited the number of days for senior Omani consultants working in the public sector to work in the private sector to three days a week, while for Omani consultants a maximum of two days.

Article 2 of the new regulation states that: “It is not allowed for doctors that work in the government sector to work in private medical institutions without obtaining a permit.

“It is possible for non-Omani doctors that work as either first consultants or consultant, to receive permits on condition that the minister approves of it,” according to Article 3 of the regulation.

The permit lasts for a year and can be renewed 30 days before it expires.

NEW VISA RULES ANNOUNCED

A

pplications for tourist visas and express visas to the Sultanate will only be available online from March 21, 2018, authorities have announced, adding that applications from service desks will no longer be accepted.

Oman E-visa announced in a statement online: “The Royal Oman Police hereby announce that as of Wednesday, March 21, 2018, applications for tourist and express visas will only be accepted online through the ROP site, and will not be received at the visa service desks.”

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3,000 OMANI JOBS IN OIL AND GAS SECTOR

T

he Omani oil and gas sector will create 3,000 jobs in the next three months, an official from Oman Society of Petroleum Services (OPAL) has said.

This is part of the 25,000 jobs for Omanis that the private sector must create according to government directives.

The oil and gas sector is expected to deliver 5,000 of these jobs.

“We have already identified 2,000 jobs and we will be able to achieve our target of 5,000 without any issues,” Musallam Al Mandhari, CEO of Oman Society for Petroleum Services, said.

“It will not be easy of course, but we will be able to achieve it.” Al Mandhari was speaking at a press conference to announce the Oman Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference in March.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

MINISTRY’S CLARIFICATION

O

man’s Ministry of Social Development has denied rumours about the need to renew data for social welfare entitlements.

The ministry said in a tweet: “Referring to the viral message about the need to renew the data of social welfare beneficiaries, the ministry clarifies that what is promoted is incorrect, and emphasises the need to take information from the correct source.”

FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

011

YOUR

NBO OPEN

OMAN

SPORTING HISTORY WAS MADE ON FEBRUARY 15TH WHEN THE NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE OMANI GOVERNMENT, AL MOUJ GOLF AND THE EUROPEAN TOUR MIDDLE EAST, BROUGHT THE PGA EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT: NBO OMAN OPEN, TO THE SULTANATE FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME.

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FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

GALLERY

YOUR

BEATS OF EAST AFRICA

OMAN

THE INTERCONTINENTAL MUSCAT SUCCESSFULLY ORGANISED THE ‘BEATS OF EAST AFRICA’ EVENT ON ITS GROUNDS EARLIER THIS MONTH [FEBRUARY 1]. KAYAMBA AFRICA PERFORMED AT THE EVENT, FURTHER RAISING THE MOOD OF THE NIGHT.

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GALLERY

NEWS

OMAN GAS WORKING WITH BANKS ON $1B BRIDGE LOAN

EXPAT ARRESTED

FOR MURDER

A S

tate-owned Oman Gas Co. is working with a group of banks to raise a bridge loan of slightly over $1 billion, which will later be refinanced via a US dollar bond issue, sources have said.

The natural gas transport company, which was bought by state-owned Oman Oil Company in 2013, will use the financing for capex purposes and to purchase assets from the government, the sources said.

One of the sources said the loan talks were at an early stage with “a lot of building blocks” still needed before it can be completed.

A group of banks including Bank Muscat, JPMorgan, Natixis, and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking

Corporation were working with the company on the planned financing, the sources said.

The loan is expected to have a one-year maturity extendable by another year. After this period, the company plans to refinance the debt facility — and potentially raise more funds for additional capex plans — through the issue of US dollardenominated bonds.

One of the sources said the loan would be finalised as soon as possible this year, but that the exact timeline was not clear.

Oman Gas was established in 2000 with a 27year concession to own, construct and operate natural gas facilities in Oman, according to its website.

n expat has been arrested for the murder of his compatriot, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has announced.

The victim’s body was found dumped in a Wadi in Al Hail, Muscat Governorate.

According to the ROP, “The arrest took place after a search and investigation. During interrogation, the accused confessed to the crime and was then referred to the judicial authorities to complete the process.”

According to an earlier statement by the ROP, “The Muscat Police Command, represented by the Department of Investigation of Muscat and the Investigation and Criminal Investigation Department at Al Koudh Police Station and supported by the Crime Prevention Department, announce the death of an Asian national whose body was found dumped in a wadi stream in Hail district of Muscat Governorate.”

FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

015

COMPETITION

d r o w e h t s ’ m Mu

Hey kids! Here’s a dream chance for you to put a big, proud smile on your mother’s face that’s going to stay there for a long time. Be free, get creative and win it — Oman’s Best Mum tiara — for her

M

others are the lifeline of the family – there’s no denying that, and it is high time we gave the mums the credit they deserved.

Y magazine has teamed up with PUCK to show the mums of Oman just how much they are loved by their children in a special competition to coincide with Mother’s Day in the GCC, which is celebrated on March 21.

This is the fourth edition of the competition – and following trend, this event is only going to be bigger and better than last year.

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In 2017, we saw our boxes inundated with LOVE YO hundreds of U MUM entries as children across the capital poured out their feelings, proving why their mum was the best in the world.

It’s not just the title of Oman’s Best Mum that is up for grabs.

Thanks to PUCK, there will be several valuable prizes for the top three entries. And if this isn’t motivation enough to show your love, then we don’t know what is – just think of the treats you could buy your mum as a thank you to all that she does for you.

“The first real human interaction a child has once they are born is with the mother. It’s a bond that is strong and beyond what words can convey. But, every now and then, we must try and express our love to our beloved mothers. So, here’s a competition that will do just that,” says Nishad Padiyarath, the editor of the Y magazine.

To enter, you’ll need to be 16 or under. Just pick up a special card which will be slotted into next week’s issue of the Y magazine and fill it with a heartfelt message of love for your mum.

Remember, our judges will be selecting the winners based on content and display, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Last year we received poems, drawings, touching words and simple displays of gratitude, so getting creative is a must.

Look out for the A5 card in next week’s issue of Y. Complete your entry and be as creative as you like with words and pictures. Good luck!

AND FINALLY: ● The top three entries will also be framed and given back to the participants for them to present to their mothers as a keepsake. ● The competition starts on March 1 and the specially designed cards will be distributed with the magazine. ● Winners will be awarded prizes with their mum at a special ceremony, in March.

COMPETITION RULES: ● The competition is open to children aged 16 and under. ● Cards must be decorated and written by children only. Entries will be disqualified if there is evidence of parental involvement. ● Children of employees of SABCO Media or associated companies are excluded from taking part. ● The editor’s decision is final. ● Winners will be notified by email or telephone. ● Winners and their mums must be able to attend the prize ceremony in Muscat on a date to be confirmed.

FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

017

HOLI TIME

THE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

MAR

Holi is fast approaching and that means more Indians will be homesick than ever. But, don’t worry, as you can spend the day celebrating the ‘Festival of Colours’ with the crowds in Muscat.

The exuberant festival, which is open to residents of all nationalities, will be packed with international music, dance and, of course, the smearing of organic coloured powders on one another. The venue of the event will be Al Mouj Golf and the organisers from Axis Events say that it will be the biggest party of its kind in Oman. You can purchase tickets from tickets.virginmegastore.me. For more details you can contact 9779 8111.

02

WEEK FEB

-

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to try out some of Turkey’s finest foods at the Turkish Food Festival 2018. The food fest will be hosted at the Park Inn Muscat Hotel and is in collaboration with Turkish Airways. Albeit, it’s not just about the food. You can also partake in the music and other fun activities, and also a raffle draw. Tickets will cost RO15 per person and the event is scheduled to commence at 7pm. For more information or to make reservations, contact: 2450 7888 or visit parkinn.com/hotel-muscat

WHAT TO DO. WHAT TO SEE. WHAT TO HEAR.

MAR

In a bid to get more people into a healthy lifestyle, the Knockout Gym in Oman is hosting a free-for-all training session at Shatti Beach, adjacent to the Costa Coffee outlet. All you have to do on the day of the event is to turn up and be a part of the group to raise awareness on living a healthy lifestyle. Who knows, maybe after a session of training, you’ll want to join the gym and be a part of the Knockout community.

For more details, contact the organisers on kooman.co

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FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

TURKISH DELIGHTS

STAY FIT

THIS

FEB 22 MAR 3

MAR

03

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

Aadhi Three Billboards Outside Cast: Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson and Sam Rockwell

Den of Thieves Cast: Gerard Butler, 50 Cent, Pablo Schreiber, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Evan Jones, Dawn Olivieri, Mo McRae, Max Holloway The 14 years this film has been in development shows. Supposed to be a riff on 1995’s Heat (gasp), Den of Thieves is a dull, repetitive heist film.

Instead of Al Pacino’s Lt. Vincent Hanna of LAPD and Robert De Niro as career criminal Neil McCauley we have Gerard Butler as Nick O’Brien, a hard-living LA sheriff obsessed with taking down Ray Merrimen (Pablo Schreiber), who has been carrying out sophisticated bank heists forever.

All comes together as Merrimen and his crew plan to rob the Federal Reserve Bank in downtown Los Angeles, with Nick close on their heels.

There are wheels within wheels and each twist is supposed to have you jump out of your seat in shock and awe. There is no way that is going to happen as you most probably have nodded off with the plot taking several diversions to follow up on Nick’s

trysts with strippers, his getting served divorce papers from his long-suffering wife, him trying to meet his cute-asbutton daughter, some long foolish conversations in bars…

There was a movie called Armored, about a group of disparate, desperate people out to hijack an armoured truck carrying much money. The movie at 88 minutes, moved briskly very like the jolly James Hadley Chase novels we spent our summers breathlessly reading. Den of Thievesis not that movie. Its Keyser Soze moment is underwhelming like everything else. Butler channels his inner manic Mel Gibson as Nick.

The only fun thing about the movie was the traffic jam—I have always wondered what would happen if Dom and his crew were stuck in Bengaluru’s Silk Board at peak hour.

— Mini Anthikad Chibber: The Hindu

Cast: Pranav Mohanlal, Siddique and Jagapathi Babu

Aadhi, an aspiring musician (Pranav Mohanlal), travels to another state in the hope of making it big. While there, an unexpected event leaves him trapped, unable to return to his family and running for his life.

Currently in theatres

I, Tonya Cast: Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan and Allison Janney

After months have passed without a culprit in her daughter’s murder case, Mildred Hayes makes a bold move, painting three signs leading into her town with a controversial message directed at William Willoughby, the town’s revered chief of police. When his secondin-command, Officer Dixon — an immature mother’s boy with a penchant for violence — gets involved, the battle is only exacerbated.

Competitive ice skater Tonya Harding rises among the ranks at the US Figure Skating Championships, but her future in the activity is thrown into doubt when her ex-husband intervenes.

Oman release date: February 22

Oman release Date: February 22

!

N WI

THIS WEEK'S QUESTION Who is the director of I, Tonya?

LAST WEEK’S WINNER Pradheep Rajendran

WIN FREE MOVIE TICKETS! Read our movie section and answer the question to stand a chance to win two tickets to watch movies of your choice! Send your answers to info@y-oman. com, along with your contact information.

Tickets must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions, see voucher.

FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

019

rail

of

T

he story of frankincense dates back thousands of years, with the earliest use believed to be circa 1450 BCE in Egypt. It has been extensively featured in ancient scriptures and is also touted as a fuel for the first global economy from 500 BCE to 500 AD. Setting aside the facts, however, we need to understand what the frankincense is. In short, it is an aromatic resinous sap inside a special family of trees that are known to grow in the Arabian Peninsula.

Frankincense has long been known to be a western Oman special. It is found in abundance in the region and is used in everything from perfumes, toothpaste, soaps and even flavoured ice cream.

Oman has been a global supplier of the fragrant resin for centuries. Some of these trees are over 1,000 years old and could have been used to serve the Queen of Sheba – a Quranic and Biblical figure from 550 BCE. It all begins when the tree – when ripe with the fragrant resin – is harvested for its resin. The

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The symbol culture, scent of the rich past, source of income for thousands and soughtafter souvenir for tourists—but the famed fragrance faces a serious drop in production.

Alvin Thomas and Hasan al Lawati follow the thinning trail of the scent of Oman harvesters must cut the bark with a special knife until the sap oozes out. This will then be dried in the sun before it can be used.

“The smell arising from frankincense is very sharp and distinct if you compare it with that of other resins,” says Mubarak al Kharusi, a frankincense trader in the Seeb souk. “What’s more amazing is that Oman is a hub for most frankincense exports to the world outside. It’s something that I take great pride in selling,” adds the man who visits Muscat from the Dhofar region to sell the product his father – a harvester of over 50 years – has reaped from frankincense trees in Salalah.

“This is the perfume of Arabia,” he proudly states.

And Mubarak is right. Frankincense is everywhere; in homes, schools, shops and even offices. Only if you delve into one of the souvenir shops in a hotel or even an airport or the souks across Oman can you appreciate the importance of this resin to the tourists and local buyers – it’s a commodity in demand.

Today, a pack of frankincense can cost anywhere between RO1 and RO5, depending

on the quality of the product.

The market price of frankincense is determined by the colour, texture and the size of the clumps. The lighter and larger the clumps, the more expensive they are to buy.

For instance, Hoojri – known to be a firstgrade resin – which has a light colour and a large clump size, is collected from trees in the north of the Samhan mountains in Dhofar and can cost up to RO38 per kg.

On the other hand, second-grade resins like Najdi – which is pale yellow in colour – can cost around RO25 per kg. Third- and fourth-grade resins will set you back anywhere between RO12 and RO6.

If you are thinking that the prices are high, then we must point out that a few thousand years ago the value of frankincense was equivalent to that of gold.

The Egyptians reportedly believed it to be the seat of the gods and used it in many of their mortuary rituals and purification ceremonies.

Frankincense was used in burial rituals as an embalming material, an offering to the departed and a means to cover the odour of the dead

I COME FROM A FAMILY THAT ARE EXPERTS IN FRANKINCENSE. WE HAVE BEEN DOING IT FOR DECADES AND IT IS ONLY NOW THAT WE HAVE STARTED RETAIL OF THE ITEM. BEFORE THIS, WE USED TO SELL IT TO OTHER SHOPKEEPERS IN THE DUKAN (MARKET) body. Greek and Roman physicians used it in the treatment of almost every disease for its antiseptic and calming properties. Moreover, Omani women chew frankincense when pregnant to ensure an ‘intelligent baby’.

Another breakthrough in the importance of frankincense was when immunologist Mahmoud Suhail and a group of scientists observed that there is an agent within frankincense that stops the spreading of cancer, and which induces cancerous cells to close themselves down.

“Cancer starts when the DNA code within the cell’s nucleus becomes corrupted,” he was quoted telling the BBC. “It seems frankincense has a re-set function. It can tell the cell what the right DNA code should be. Frankincense separates the ‘brain’ of the cancerous cell — the nucleus — from the ‘body’ — the cytoplasm, and closes down the nucleus to stop it reproducing corrupted DNA codes.”

Despite all that, however, the value of the resin has dropped over time. And while all of this should spell well for sellers, many are now complaining that there is a shortage of the product.

Ahmed al Rashdi, a perfume seller in Muttrah souk, elucidates: “There are times when our vendors don’t bring us our frankincense from Salalah in time. This means we sometimes have to raise our prices or go without stock for days.

“Our prices aren’t fixed and people will bargain with us too, so this is not a pleasant period for us.

Whatever may be the case, I am finding that some honest vendors are struggling to find the product in time for us, while some others are always piled up with stock.

“And because the frankincense trade is built on trust and network, we cannot simply switch vendors.”

This is a concern for a country that is known to trade commercial tree products for millennia. The commodity remains an important part of local culture and a main source of income to hundreds of farmers and their families.

According to the Environment Society of Oman (ESO), frankincense trees are currently undergoing severe population decline due to overgrazing, insect infestation, and unsustainable harvesting methods.

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While frankincense is produced by tapping the Boswellia sacra tree for sap, researchers closely monitoring the effects of tapping have recorded its harsh impact on the trees when not done properly.

The ESO presented its findings from the Frankincense Research and Conservation initiative with project sponsor HSBC Bank Oman. The research project, ‘Sustainable Harvesting of Frankincense Trees’, started in 2010 in four experimental research locations, monitoring 180 frankincense trees in Dhofar to determine the right frequency of tapping to produce a sustainable yield without adversely harming the trees.

In a statement released to the media, Dr Mohsin Al Amri, Project Manager and Researcher, said: “For millennia, frankincense trees have served as an important source of income and cultural symbol to people throughout the Sultanate, being used for medical and cosmetic purposes as well as food flavouring.

Despite that, frankincense numbers have continued to decline as overharvesting and unsustainable practices take their toll.

“Among other findings, research results have shown that tapping smaller trees result in insufficient seed germination which in turn reduces the produce. The impact of unsustainable harvesting methods may last up to three years, and for conservation to succeed we must continue to fill knowledge gaps, complement research findings and engage all stakeholders as often as we can.”

Adding to the researcher’s lines, Andrew P. Long, CEO of HSBC Bank Oman, said: “The decline of frankincense in Oman is a challenge that requires the collaboration of all stakeholders 022

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to protect this important cultural symbol. We are confident that our partnership on this unparalleled initiative will further enhance the community’s understanding on ways to protect Dhofar’s prized frankincense trees.”

The project funds covered both phases of the project, including three field surveys which were conducted between April 2015 and May 2017, to closely monitor 180 trees for foliage and seed germination as indicators of their health.

Rather interestingly, the study found that the trees that were exposed to over-harvesting flowered more than the trees that were under normal tapping practices. This can be explained as a survival mechanism in the trees, triggered by the sense of risk.

Also, it was found that larger trees seem to enjoy higher ability to produce intact healthy seeds than smaller trees.

Following the research and monitoring of these trees, awareness and advocacy campaigns were conducted with key stakeholders to reach out to the farmers and educate them on the usage of sustainable harvesting techniques which are vital to the continued survival of this endemic Omani species.

Reports that there is a sharp decline in the number of frankincense trees are making rounds in the media. As per the reports, the Luban tree, which provides some of the most eminent frankincense in the world, is under threat of extinction.

MY FRANKINCENSE COSTS BETWEEN RO1 AND RO7, BUT VISITORS ARE MOCKING ME SAYING THAT THEY WOULD GET BETTER QUALITY PRODUCTS FOR LESSER IN CHINESE STORES AND MALLS According to a recent study, there has been a staggering 85 per cent drop in the density of frankincense trees in Jabal Samhan (in Salalah) over the last 13 years. It’s not just wrong practices or over harvesting that have led us to this stage; droughts have also played a detrimental role, accounting for a 34 per cent reduction in the numbers of the tree.

It was stated that in 2015, authorities planted more than 600 of the trees in areas like Samahram, Khor Rori and Wadi Madrakah in an effort to revive their fast depleting numbers – and this, according to numerous frankincense traders, has bridged the gaps slightly.

Falah al Balushi, a trader of 30 years at the Muttrah souk, tells Y that he

feels that the supply of the resin has been on the up ever since the authorities took action to curb illegal selling and also harvesting.

“I come from a family that are experts in frankincense. We have been doing it for decades and it is only now that we have started retail of the item. Before this, we used to sell it to other shopkeepers in the dukan (market).

“I still get my stock from my brother who comes once every two weeks from Salalah. He harvests it himself, so I can trust that everything is in safe hands. But one issue we have been facing of late has been that the tourists are trying to take advantage of our good nature.

“We adore people coming to Oman to soak in the flavours of the country, but they spend thousands of Riyals on a cruise ship or stay in five-star hotels, and then come to haggle with us for a few grams of frankincense.

“It’s an insult to the product and to us. Every single customer that comes here asks for a drop in the price. It’s not an issue to ask for one and I will happily give him or her a better price, but then they start comparing the hujri (highquality frankincense) to the najdi (lower quality frankincense) and that’s when they start fighting with us over the price differences.

“I usually sell regular frankincense for about RO2.5 to RO10 – and that’s something I’ve been successful at, but the coming up of supermarkets in the Muscat region is slowly killing our sales.”

Shops in supermarkets around the capital are known to sell frankincense for as low as RO1 and the average price drops further when the buyer opts for a burner and coal.

This is a feeling shared by Yasir al Mahri, a trader from Salalah who only visits the capital during the Muscat Festival.

“My frankincense costs between RO1 and RO7, but visitors are mocking me saying that they would get better quality products for lesser in Chinese stores and malls,” he tells.

“We work hard to harvest this resin and collect enough to showcase it in the Muscat Festival. But it hurts us to see that people don’t appreciate the art of traditional perfumes anymore. And if that is the case, then we won’t have a job in the near future.”

Tapping needs regulation

In 2016, the ESO organised two workshops to share these findings with government entities in Dhofar, and organised around six public audiences with local communities from 2015 to 2017 targeting areas such as Salalah, Mirbat, Sadah, Hadbeem, Taqah, Mander and Dhalkout among others

A SUSTAINABLE HARVESTING METHOD, LEGISLATION TO REGULATE TAPPING AND A PERMITTING SYSTEM AND A CERTIFICATION SCHEME COULD ADDRESS THE FRANKINCENSE CRISIS, THE ESO TELLS Y. EXCERPTS FROM THE INTERVIEW: What are the human activities that harm these trees?

Each tree has a certain capacity to produce the resin that we call frankincense. The resin is obtained by tapping the tree or wounding it, said Maïa Sarrouf Willson from Research and Conservation of the Environment Society of Oman (ESO).

The substance comes out in the form of liquid and is then dried off. If the tapping goes beyond the point of what the tree can bear (i.e. too many wounds, or taps on its trunk) it will affect its capacity to flower and the production of healthy, mature seeds that can germinate.

She pointed out that over-tapping could lead to the death of the tree in extreme cases.

“A sustainable harvesting method is one which can generate a certain amount of resin, without harming the health of the tree.”

What is the government doing to stop this?

The ESO initiated a research project for the conservation of frankincense trees in Salalah in 2010, sponsored by HSBC Oman. The project, led by Dr Mohsin Al Amri and his assistant Bader Al Shanfary, aimed to understand the sustainable tapping methods of frankincense trees.

The initial research was done in four project sites in Dhofar, monitoring the tapping of trees.

So, should tapping be banned?

No, tapping should not be banned, said Willson.

“Frankincense is and has been part of the economy of both Dhofar and Oman for centuries, and should remain that way. Legislation should be in place to regulate the tapping.”

But why don’t we see any radical change in the prices of frankincense in local markets?

Although there are no market studies that indicate the source of frankincense on the Omani market, it is assumed that most of it comes from farms, according to Willson.

“But it is the state of wild frankincense trees that is in peril,” she said, adding that “one of the recommendations of the project is to initiate a population estimate of wild frankincense trees in Dhofar, which could contribute to updation of the conservation status of this tree.”

Willson added: “Further recommendations include the development of permitting system and a certification scheme for Omani frankincense.” ■

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Moon’s THE LIMIT

W

hen it comes to success stories, there’s very little out there that can rival Mohamed Harazallah, the mastermind behind the success of one beverage and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) brand in the Middle East – Lacnor.

Of course, there’s more to the man than just that.

As a matter of fact, the career of the current Business Development Director of the National Food Products Company started well over three decades ago – and his experience has led him to the forefront of a company that is ever-growing in the region.

Mohamed’s career started off like that of any other; his differences as a leader aside. He commenced his long journey “doing things during the war in Lebanon” before moving to Dubai and taking up a job as a sales supervisor with Philip Morris International.

“My job was to train the newcomers that were joining the distributors, so I used to go on the van and visit every single store and apply the selling, merchandising and negotiation

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Hitch your wagon to the moon, but you need to know your way around.

Set the goals, be realistic and timebound. Top Lacnor official explains to Alvin Thomas how he takes the business and his team on a happy, happening journey techniques,” says Mohamed, who took out time from his busy schedule for me.

Three years later, Mohamed joined the pioneering Johnson & Johnson Middle East in 1984 as a regional sales manager responsible for the UAE, Oman and Qatar.

In three years’ time, however, he realised that his full potential would only be utilised if he expanded from sales into the competitive field – and a whole different sphere – of marketing.

He was sent by his company to the Institute of Marketing in London for a short period.

This was the beginning of a change in his career life.

He was soon posted as a senior sales manager with dual responsibilities as a brand manager, too.

“The challenges back then were fewer, but then it was a very small group – and I had a small portfolio.

“The real change happened when I was given the role of marketing manager, in 1987, when I was given the biggest portfolio, which is the haircare business,” he proudly says, adding that he was then promoted to the role of

In order to achieve what you want you need to take the people with you on the journey.

You cannot simply tell the people you have to go there; you have to explain why and how you want them to go and the objective behind it

business development manager and then the prestigious position of sales director and board member.

In 1999, he decided to make a move to FMCG tycoons PepsiCola International.

Mohamed spent over 10 years with Pepsi Cola Int’l in Kuwait and Oman in the capacity of sales, marketing and general management roles before making the important switch to the National Food Products Company which deals with brands such as Lacnor, Oasis and several others.

Talking about the days he started operations, he says there were three main challenges when he first joined Lacnor: 1) People and the capabilities: We did not have the right people in place or people with the right skillset.

2) Coverage and distribution: We did not have coverage of all areas in Oman.

3) Standard operating procedures: When you start a new operation, you need to have certain policies to approach the market.

“All of this was done but it was ad hoc and out of necessity,” he explains.

“So during my initial months, I was spending most of the time in Oman to make sure that the systems that were in place were being followed.

During my experience, I learnt that in order to achieve what you want you need to take the people with you on the journey.

“You cannot simply tell the people you have to go there; you have to explain why and how you want them to go and the objective behind it.

Else, you’re just giving plain orders.

“And if you do that, over time, they themselves will give you the answer for it. The team around you will take ownership of the objective you want to achieve. And that’s when you will be successful,” he adds.

Following the successful establishment of NFPC in Oman, the company’s next step is to develop the workforce in the nation, starting with the training of Omanis.

“Omanisation is one of our greatest objectives – and we need to employ and train Omanis.

“Now we are embarking on a mission to improve their capabilities and even acquire some high-profile Omanis to fulfil positions,” Mohamed tells me.

NFPC currently undertakes the sale of water, juices, dairy products, bakeries, plastic manufacturing and also recycling in the UAE. And his next goal is to expand the brand’s reach within the country: “In Oman, we currently have milk, juices and water but have plans to bring some fresh businesses here.

“In the milk and juices we have onethird of the market share and another 20 per cent is in through our water sales.

“Awareness is a very important part of the brand – and there is an 85 per cent knowledge of the brand.

But for a company to succeed in the Omani market, Mohamed says the team will have to set goals and work together to achieve it.

“You need to have objectives when you’re working in this industry. You cannot simply say that you want to go to the moon and don’t know how to go there. So, you’ll need to be practical in your approach to the market to make sure that your goals are realistic and time-bound.

“Empowering is important too. You need to give your people room to make decisions and also mistakes. They will learn from it.

“The motto is that ‘Don’t be afraid of making mistakes’, but make sure you don’t repeat the same mistakes,” he elucidates, before

we end our sweet and long conversation. ■

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THREE

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T

he excitement and nervousness was at an all-time high for the 47 contestants who had entered Y’s Portrait

By A Nation art competition’s grand finale. The anxious faces of the students and the parents said it all. It was what they had waited for – and golly, what a close finish it was!

Gathered at the Oman Ballroom of the iconic Sheraton Oman Hotel on February 19, the finalists waited with bated breath as Merge 104.8’s Chris Fisher took the stage, thereby commencing the proceedings for the evening.

Students were soon lined up against their paintings and the guest of honour, Her Highness Sayyida Basma Al Said, began the long walk admiring each painting and duly documenting it on her social media handles as the parents and students looked on proudly.

Sayyida Basma was all praise for the works of art, and

said that the students were “extremely creative and brimming with talent”.

Held as a part of the Sultanate’s celebrations to mark the 47th National Day, the Portrait By A Nation competition aimed at giving children an opportunity to create lasting tributes to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said. Their portraits were impressive, with many using a range of techniques that surprised the judges and sponsors alike.

Selecting 47 finalists – let alone three winners from three categories – was a challenge, but it was made possible by our fantastic sponsors and the judges.

The competition, which was held at the Muscat Grand Mall, witnessed a record 2,300 participants over the National Day weekend. There were entrants from as far as Salalah, Nizwa and Sohar as well.

This year’s competition was powered by FRiENDi, and in association with sponsors Muscat Grand Mall, PUCK, IDdesign and Finland Eye Center. eXtra was the electronics sponsor for the event.

The winners received gifts worth RO3,150.

Choosing from 2,300 is a daunting task and we’re working hard to choose the best of 47 paintings

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Here are the winners from each category: ●5–9 First Place: Rishik Vashisht Second Place: Saanvi Raju Third Place: Anvitha Arundeebak

● 10 – 13 First Place: Richa Thakur Second Place: Ishan Malik Third Place: Siddharth Chenni

● 14 – 17 First Place: Anika Joshi Second Place: Vaidehee Thankur Third Place: Jannatul Mawa

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Winner in the 14-17 category Anika Joshi said: “This is a very emotional moment for me. This was my last Portrait By A Nation competition, and I had been taking part in it for the last three years.

Anika – who also took home the first spot last year – added: “I will be going to college this year, and I am opting for fine arts. I think in a way the Y magazine instilled a sense of confidence in me to pursue my dream. I would like to thank you all for your support and I hope this competition will go on for many more years.”

Eugen Comendant, the Marketing & Sales Director of FRiENDi, exclaimed: “We really appreciate the initiative taken by the Y magazine to hone such wonderful talents of the kids and also showcase their love for His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said.

“Giving these kids an opportunity to show the country and their peers their skills will help them grow more as artists – and we’re already among some highly

talented individuals.

“It has been a fruitful journey and we enjoyed every bit of it. I would also like to extend all my gratitude to Team Y for working on this project non-stop for months.”

Nishad Padiyarath, Y’s editor, chimed in: “This has been a very long and prolific event – and I would like to thank all the sponsors, parents and children for their enthusiasm. This is what has made Portrait By A Nation a grand success.

“I am told that there were several students who were participating from last year’s competition, and we’re very happy to see that. However, some will not be returning next year as they will be heading for higher studies.

“Still, we hope to see their support in the coming editions of PBAN. But before we conclude it all, I would like to tell everyone out there that we are grateful for your support. And when we come back for our next competition later this year, I promise that it will be bigger and better than ever before.” ■

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Adventures

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Gaming

CARS AND ADVENTURES

ICONIC ITALIAN

The Maserati Ghibli is a strong contender to the heavyweights from Germany but with oodles of character and presence to rival the British too. – P34

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CARS AND OUTDOORS ADVENTURES

D E S T I N AT I O N C a r s

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Y- F i

Destination

Sifat al

Sheikh

Away from the crowds in Sifah but so close to the capital is a beach untainted by tourists and ideal for snorkelling or diving. Shaquel al Balushi enjoys four hours of solitude and serenity amid stunning rocks 032

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Gaming

photographs of the beach and the accompanying rocks that were carved into shape – over centuries or even more – by the nonchalant waves.

The easiest way to describe Sifat al Sheikh is: it’s’ a natural harbour.

This is why fishermen flock the area during the early and later hours of the day.

We spent about four hours on the beach casually discussing matters and sharing our thoughts and ideas, before heading into a much deeper session of photography, which involved some idyllic panorama and aerial shots.

From the photos, we could tell that the waters are clean and clear, and that Sifat al Sheikh would also make a perfect location for those looking for snorkelling and other diving activities.

That’s also what sets this area apart from the several other beaches around the Muscat area.

But, I have a humble piece of advice for you if you’re heading there: Carry enough drinking water for you and your friends or family, and also garbage bags to clear up your waste before you scamper back home.

Sifat al Sheikh is a serene spot – and serene it must remain.

HOW TO GET THERE

TRAVEL GUIDE

A

fter my trip to the beautiful beach of Sifah last week, I felt a sense of uneasiness that stemmed from the fact that I had left some stones unturned; I knew there were more places than just Sifah and Jebel Sifah to explore.

So, when it was time to head out this week I decided to take a trip back and see what lay en route to the village and the beach. And it wouldn’t have been more than 5km to Sifah when I stumbled upon a signboard that read: Sifat al Sheikh.

As it was a place I had never visited before, I delved right into.

Accompanying me on the trip were my friends ‘DJ’ Nasser and ‘Photographer’ Bader.

It didn’t take us long to reach the ends of the Sifat al Sheikh to realise that it was a fishing town more than anything else. There were boats lined up on the beach ready to be towed out into the seas and set in for a day of action.

Luckily, the otherwise untouched piece of land and water body is untainted by tourists and remains open to those looking for a good time away from the crowds in Sifah.

What this meant was that I was able to click some stunning

From Wadi Kabir, take the road that leads to Sifah. Follow Al Jissah Road until you see a board that points to Sifat al Sheikh. This should be roughly 7km before you reach the heart of Sifah. You can access this location via road but make sure you pack enough essentials for your trip.

Coordinates: 23°29’17.5”N; 58°46’09.5”E

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CARS ADVENTURES

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M A S E R AT I G H I B L I S Q 4

The 2018 model fuses under-the-hood fury and superior comforts with delicious curves and soulful growls to deliver an awesome experience.

Alvin Thomas enjoys the Italian exotics

trident jewel on the fascia of a car has long been associated with cars of opulence, wealth and sportiness. Little wonder then that Maserati’s GranTurismo and Quattroporte have been selling like hot cakes since their launch decades ago. Heck, people like it so much that the brand isn’t even sold on the idea of altering its design portfolio.

But this posed a problem for the brand when they were trying to penetrate the mid-size luxury car market – one that has long been associated with German brands save for Volkswagen and Seat perhaps.

Nobody wanted a bargain product from an upmarket brand. The idea of an affordable car seemed like a step down even if changing trends demanded it. But five years since the first Ghibli rolled out of the Maserati stables in Turin, here we are, ogling at it like it was revealed just yesterday.

And from where I was standing, I couldn’t – for

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the love of God – figure out how an entry-level sedan could pump out 410hp and be swaddled in leather inside. For instance, this still comes to us at a time when Mercedes-Benz and BMW are pushing hatchbacks and puny four-cylinder sedans as upmarket entry-level offerings.

Nevertheless, we’re here to talk about the Ghibli, and that we shall.

Not much has changed since its re-introduction (the ‘Ghibli’ nameplate was first used in 1967) into the lineup in 2013. A few minor nips and tucks distinguish the 2018 model from the previous iteration.

As I had stated in an earlier review, the Ghibli follows the design-language of the sixth-gen Quattroporte. The curves upfront are distinctively Maserati, and they add to the aggressive persona of the car.

The lights are sharp and swoop down to enhance the sporty guise. But where it really strikes gold is the grille and the front bumper, which more or less integrates into a large section of the air intake. This means the car perpetually looks like it’s braking hard mid-way through a sharp corner. It’s incredibly stylish, I tell you.

The side profile is on point too, especially if you, like me, opt for the S Q4 variant, which comes with large 20-inch alloys. It is further accentuated by the character lines that run midway through the rear doors to the hind.

The rear is good looking too, albeit a bit vanilla.

Still, it’s highly unlikely that anyone tailing you will be thinking of the posterior when the quad-exhausts are in full blast.

The Ghibli takes Maserati’s interior experience to a whole new level. My tester came slam dunked

with all optional extras, which means I received everything from premium leather, a crisp and clear eight-speaker audio system and even some other added “luxury” touches.

Also included in the car is an all-new Chrysler-derived 8.4-inch Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) touchscreen. It’s a welcome addition to the interior, as you can configure the screen and control numerous in-car functions too.

The seats, as stated earlier, are cloaked in leather – and more leather than what Spiderman wore in all his Marvel movies combined. Still, it’s soft to the touch and the seats are cushy to relax in. Bolstering and lumbar is aplenty (if a bit too much), and you won’t find

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Maserati Ghibli SQ4 Specifications: Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 Transmission: Eight-speed ‘ZF’ automatic Horsepower: 410hp Torque: 550Nm All-wheel drive ABS, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control Maserati Touch Control w/ navigation Genuine wood inserts on console and door panels Eight-way adjustable front bucket seats Leather wrapper steering with button-operated commands

THE CABIN IS REASONABLY QUIET, BUT I COULD STILL HEAR A HINT OF WIND NOISE FROM THE SIDEMIRRORS, AND A BIT OF ROAD NOISE FROM THE ULTRA-WIDE TYRES. MEANWHILE, THE ENGINE ONLY EMITS A MILD HUM WHEN CRUISING AT SPEEDS OF UP TO 120KPH (AT 2,000RPM)

yourself slipping out of the seats in tight corners.

Space inside borders on what larger competitors from Germany offer, but there’s adequate leg and head room upfront, and class-competent space in the rear.

The cabin is reasonably quiet, but I could still hear a hint of wind noise from the side-mirrors, and a bit of road noise from the ultra-wide tyres. Meanwhile, the engine only emits a mild hum when cruising at speeds of up to 120kph (at about 2,000rpm).

Cargo room is sizeable even if the hinges take up a bit of room. It should still be enough to haul large suitcases to the airport and back, you know, if you’re the sort of person who does airport trips in a luxury Italian marque.

But then again, why wouldn’t you?

Driving the Ghibli is quite an… well… experience. It all begins when you fire up the 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 upfront. It breathes out an impressive 410hp and 550Nm of blue-blooded torque (in the S Q4).

The powertrain is coupled to an eight-speed “ZF” automatic gearbox that then sends power to all four wheels. While this translates to superb 0-100 acceleration figures – about 5 seconds – there’s still a lot in line of driving dynamics.

To begin with, the steering is responsive and provides copious amounts of feedback to the driver. This definitely aids the driving feel but, above that, it gives the driver a sense of confidence that they can control the car despite the aforementioned power and torque figures.

The Ghibli does suffer from turbo-lag, but it’s only a minor niggle during normal driving. Still, if you’re really serious about putting down power on the road, you can

take control of the shifts manually and quickly shuffle through gears using the column-mounted metal paddle shifters.

In sport mode, gearbox is fast and responsive but can be lax in normal mode. Still, every time you slam the pedal to the floor, you’ll be greeted with a kick-down – which then clears the throat of the glorious exhaust.

As expected from a Maserati, the exhaust note is phenomenal, if it isn’t already the best-sounding in the car industry already. Sure, the V8-powered GranTurismo and Quattroporte are in a league of its own, but the Ghibli may very well be the most soulful V6 exhaust I’ve ever tested in a car.

And it’s not just noise. Once the torque kicks in – all 550Nms of it – at about 3,000rpm, the car simply thrusts forwards. It’s planted in the corners too, with very little in line of understeer or oversteer unless you really poke it before you touch the apex of the corner.

The all-wheel drive system is intuitive and you won’t have to wrestle the car much in the bends either. But I couldn’t validate this over the course of my short test-drive.What I can, however, attest is that the large brakes are mindbogglingly strong and offers tons of stopping power. My only complaint would be that the anti-lock braking system (ABS) kicks in a tad early to curb any slippage. But then again, it does so to cope with the power generated by the massive brakes.

The Maserati Ghibli S Q4 is one of those sedans that invokes the vibes of a sports coupe. It’s sizeable when compared to one, but if you’re in the market for a car that can mimic – to an extent – the driving feel of a German sports coupe (the Porsche Panamera to be specific), while still being able to ferry five people in absolute comfort and Italian finesse, then look no further: the Ghibli is here for you.

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CARS ADVENTURES RIDE-ALONG

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is one of the oldest rack systems in the country and it provides passengers with fabulous sightseeing opportunities.

1. Sail down Ooty Lake on a paddleboat 2. Take a stroll in the Government Rose Garden 3. Indulge in a day of fun at the Thunder World amusement park 4. Experience 19th century engineering in the Nilgiri Mountain Railway 5) Meditate in the St Stephen’s Church

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POSTCARDS FROM

Alvin Thomas recommends

OOTY, TAMIL NADU, INDIA T

he Nilgiri mountains harbour some of south India’s best-kept secrets and the hill town of Ooty is one of them. I say this because visitors - who I presume to know their way around hill stations - often tout Ooty as a carbon copy of Vermont - a popular honeymoon spot in the US. Thanks to this, this hamlet has gained popularity among the recently married, but if you scratch beyond what’s visible, there’s quite a lot to see and indulge in - even if you’re just travelling for the heck of it.

The photos you see here will paint you a picture of what I saw in Ooty - and that’s the best way to describe my time there. I cannot lie: It’s one of those places that drives you to pick up your phone and start clicking pictures, but the key is to simply keep technology away and take a deep breath of the fresh air (just make sure there are no cows or their byproducts around).

When you’re done soaking in the atmosphere and dancing with the butterflies (Bollywood style), you can try heading to the nearest train station to take a ride in the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR). The NMR is the last - and the only rack railway system in India, and it will take you on a course unconceivable by humans.

The uphill journey is said to take around five hours and the downhill three-and-a-half hours - but you cannot keep track of time even if you wanted to. The steam locomotives will take you through the tall mountains (with a steep 8.33 per cent gradient), dark tunnels and deserted stations. My accomplice stated that it was like a trip back to the good old days of engineering.

When you’re done exploring the mountains, you can head to the Government Rose Garden, which is one of the highest rose gardens in the world, or the Government Museum, which is home to some artefacts from the British era.

OOTY L AKE

Y D E N IN OO T R OS E G A R

My favourite place

It’s hard to pinpoint one location that overshadows everything else, but if I were held against a gun, I would have to give it to the Adam’s Fountain, which is a 19th century (circa 1886) water feature. It was built as a memorial to the town’s then governor and reportedly cost the crowd Rs13,000 to build. Simply looking at it invoked thoughts of the people proudly working together to construct this in the hope of pleasing their leader.

Highlights

Ooty is the perfect spot for those looking to get away from the scorching heat in the state of Tamil Nadu.

The temperatures usually hover around the 20°C mark and the mountains will be lush green during the summer. This also means that it will be a great spot for travellers from the GCC to chill during their mid-summer breaks. And don’t forget: Ooty is a part of Tamil Nadu, so the prices of goods will be considerably lower than other parts of India.

Lowlights If I were to complain, I would say that there is a dearth of art galleries. Also, the area is being tainted with garbage as an increasing number of visitors spend their summers in the town.

Souvenirs This is where things get interesting. You can head to the Ooty Market and splurge on new clothes and packets of fresh tea leaves.

Getting there An Air India flight to the city of Chennai in Tamil Nadu will set you back RO55. From the airport,

you can take a taxi to the Central Bus station, and from there you can opt for an a/c sleeper bus to Ooty for a meagre Rs1000 (RO5.98).

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Where to stay

There are several lodges and hotels in Ooty. The Sinclairs Retreat Ooty is a beautiful four-star hotel, which will only set you back RO25 a night.

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-FI THE TECH IN YOU X MARKS THE SPOT There’s no doubt that the Apple iPhone X is a technological tour de force in the smartphone industry. Face ID, OLED Retina display and a bezel-less body are among a host of things that are touted as a start of things to come from the tech conglomerate’s stables in the coming years. Apart from all that, you also get a 12-megapixel (dual) rear camera, a 5.8-inch display, the amazing 64-bit A11 Bionic chip and an M11 motion co-processor. If you thought that was it, you’d be wrong. The geeks at Apple will also throw in an optional 256gigs of storage for your needs. It’s a bit pricey but even Android fans are envious of this device. Buy it from roumaan. com for RO429

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Y-FI

FUTURISTIC GADGETS

Gorgeous because of the obvious class, premium because they redefine the class.

Alvin Thomas checks out some pricey, premier options THE GLASS EFFECT All right, so this contraption may look like a modular table lamp of sorts, but you’d be surprised to learn that there’s more to it than just that. It’s the Sony Glass Sound Speaker and it does everything its name suggests, and more. The newly developed technology is designed to deliver audio with the utmost clarity and authenticity using a glass tube tweeter and actuators. These sources will then vibrate the organic glass – which in turn delivers the sound. There’s no wastage of space either; there’s an LED inside that shines soft light when required. Think of it as a speaker with multiple functions. But then again, at RO308 that’s expected. Buy it from amazon.com

ON THE SURFACE Let’s get the elephant out of the room: The Microsoft Surface is excruciatingly expensive to buy. But if your pockets are stashed with cash then don’t hesitate to splurge on one of these Microsoft Surface Studios. It may look like an iMac but the design is sleeker. Where it shines is in versatility. You can use the device as a computer or even a tablet depending on your requirements. The internal specifications are great too: You will get a sixth generation Intel i5 with 8Gigs of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive. Also included in the box are a Surface Pen and a three-month trial of Adobe Creative Cloud Photograph. Get it for RO1,154 from microsoft.com

A TOUCH OF METAL

EDITOR’S PICK

FENDER, BEST KNOWN FOR ITS MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, IS NOW FORAGING INTO THE WORLD OF PORTABLE LISTENING. THIS FENDER NEWPORT BLUETOOTH SPEAKER DONS A CLASSIC DESIGN BUT PACKS THE LATEST TECH UNDERNEATH. THE RANGE STANDS AT 33 FEET AND THE DEVICE CAN ALSO PACK ABOUT 12 HOURS OF MUSIC PLAYBACK PER CHARGE. FURTHERMORE, YOU CAN CHARGE YOUR ENERGY-HUNGRY SMARTPHONE USING A CHARGING CABLE. DESPITE ITS STRONG POINTS, HOWEVER, WE CANNOT TAKE OUR EYES OFF THE GORGEOUS CLASSIC ’68 CUSTOM AMPLIFIER LOOK, COMPLETE WITH THE PROTECTIVE SPEAKER GRILLE, WITCH-HAT KNOBS, AMP JEWEL AND CONTROL LABELS. BUY THIS FOR RO77 FROM AMAZON.COM

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Top 3 free games for PS4

Three free-to-play games good enough for the beginner as well as the geek. Alvin Thomas tries his hand at combat, investigation and warfare — all in a day’s work 1) SKYFORGE MMO (massively multiplayer online) games are an acquired taste. But if you’re looking to begin gaming online, start with Skyforge. It’s a free game with a fantastic gaming physics that is accentuated by a combat system that incorporates combos that lets you chain together attacks and skills to perform some mind-boggling moves.

There are 14 (the game is based on a class system) levels that you can unlock or, if you prefer, you can stick with the starter classes which are non-taxing too. However, if you’re worried about investing hours in a class that you don’t like, you can switch to another one. This makes it perfect for anyone looking for a versatile game with much to explore. Oh, and you play the role of an immortal with incredible powers, battling to protect the world from armies of hostile gods – and eventually perhaps become a god yourself.

love about the game. The story revolves around the gifted protagonist Max and her friend Chloe, using their powers to investigate the disappearance of their friend Rachel Amber.

You’ll see – and learn – a lot as you progress, and it should keep you hooked for a good four hours. The game also has multiple endings, so you can redo the mission again. Keep in mind that the publishers are only making Episode 1 available for free.

3) WORLD OF TANKS

2) LIFE IS STRANGE, EPISODE 1

No self-proclaimed geek can call themself a gamer without giving Life is Strange a shot. No, seriously! It’s one of the best graphic adventure titles on PlayStation and there’s much to

Fast-paced tactical warfare games are all the rage now. But if you, like me, are into slow, strategic sneaky warfare, then you must download the World of Tanks. This historical shooter enables 30 online players to split into two groups and then battle until death. Teamwork and sly moves will determine whether you make it to the end or not. But keep in mind that you will be handling some of the most advanced tanks (from mid1900s to 2017) in the business, so you’ll find yourself learning the controls as you proceed through the game. Tank enthusiasts will have a lot to ogle at.

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HEALTH& BEAUTY

LET’S TALK BOOTS

Muscat’s evening sky still has a chill to it, which means boots are still in fashion. Whether you wear thigh high, knee high or ankles, boots give any ensemble a ‘chic’ vibe, like this collection from Primark

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Health

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FASHION

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aran K e tin hris C , t ry tree esto s o h h g s e hi rmy h a t A perfect top to be paired with skirts e o t H . d or trousers and boots, this versatile k n o gh e t the lo tagram and stylish polka top from Oasis is i h e e s h a must-have. Buy it for RO21. t n g I o From s you t tine on is help w Chr o Foll

T t Ge You’ve got the boots, now pair them with the right jacket.

Check out this lightweight, dark green, doublebreasted trench coat from Miss Selfridge.

A perfect wear for a fashionable evening.

Shop it for RO31.

If you’re feeling a little ‘funky’ this season and want to really style outside the box, then opt for this pair of printed, stretch boots from ZARA. Available for RO28.

Fashion is all about taking that risk, and styling white boots will require a real eye for fashion. If you are up for putting your unique twist on the style, pick these kitten heel white boots from NewLook for RO29.

If you are looking for something to stay in trend and still be comfortable while you go out with friends, then these are the ones for you! Shop the black platform boots from H&M for RO18.

For the much-needed elegance and style, tall and wellshaped knee-high boots should always be your go-to.

Shop these from ZARA for RO40.

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Health

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the TeintIdole Ultra 24 hours. A wellblending, full-coverage and long-lasting foundation that gives my skin an instant porcelain-smooth look. As claimed by Lancome, this foundation does stay for a full 24 hours without creasing or caking.

Dior Addict ‘IT Line’ Eyeliner

For all those who want a fierce wing to rock the red carpet, then Dior Addict’s IT Line eyeliner is your inamorato.

Smooth and intense, the finish of this liner is flawless, adding definition to your eyes and the entire look. This liquid liner comes in a stylish black tube/pot that can be easily slipped in your purse for easy touch-ups. The brush is so fine and precise that it assures you the sharpness of your wing.

Marc Jacobs Air Blush Soft Glow Duo

They come with hefty price tags but the sheer opulence is inspiring.

Five beauty products that give great glam for your buck. Go on and splurge on yourself

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uxury brands such as Chanel, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana and many more have all ventured into the world of beauty and cosmetics and have brought onto the beauty stage their unique style, high quality and upright consistency as their fashion hallmark.

Many of us may not classify them in the ‘regular, everyday’ use category as they are quite heavy on the pocket, but they are definitely worth buying and using for special occasions.

LancomeTeintIdole Ultra 24 hours

I love almost all of Lancome’s skincare products, from moisturisers to primers to mascaras. One of my recent go-to foundations is

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My recent purchase, this powder duo palette consists of a blusher on one side and a soft highlighter on the other. When mixed together for application, it results in a dewy, natural effect than exploding colour on your cheeks. The palette is very soft and infused with Japanese air powder for the ultimate, lightweight, cheek look.

The trendy Marc Jacobs style palette is sleek and contains a large mirror, which makes it a favourite for stylish travellers. Available in five colours, this palette is for those who want a natural and long-lasting glow.

Givenchy Rouge Interdit

A favourite for many, the Givenchy Rouge Interdit is a smooth, creamy, luxurious lipstick that is well pigmented, yet lightweight. The lipstick is made up of natural ingredients such as senso oil complex, castor oil and beeswax and so the finish is intense making the lips look naturally plump. The lipstick tube, attached with a black ribbon, makes it a perfect fashion and beauty accessory to carry in your purse.

Shiseido 7 Lights Powder Illuminator

This kaleidoscopic palette from Shiseido is a unique compact that gives a natural radiance to the skin. A perfect wear for day or night, this compact illuminator assures a fresh look on every application. Available in a chic and stylish package, you can carry this around easily for re-application.

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FIT AS A

FIDDLE

Eat, exercise, sleep, repeat…that’s the mantra for health, no doubt, but there’s confusion over how and how much. Read on to get it right and feel fighting fit

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here isn't a better time than now to start getting fit with health information and products so easily accessible. Simply incorporate the basics into your daily routine – good nutrition, adequate exercise and a daily supplement – and start down the path toward better health.

Plan a nutritious diet Several dietary guidelines describe a healthy diet as one that emphasises fruits, vegetables, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, nuts, whole

grains and fat-free or low-fat milk products.

It should be low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt and added sugar. ● Warm weather makes fresh produce more easily accessible. Eat more fruits and vegetables by setting freshly washed and prepared produce on the kitchen counter or at eye level in the fridge. At every meal, make sure half your plate is made up of fruit and vegetable servings. ● One-fourth of your plate at every meal should be made up of grains, such as wheat, rice, oats, cornmeal or barley. People who eat whole grains as part of a healthy diet have a reduced risk of some chronic diseases. ● The remaining one-fourth of your plate should be lean or low-fat cuts of meat, plantbased protein or seafood.

Get regular exercise An adequate amount of exercise is essential every day. This guide can point to the right amount of exercise to add to your schedule: ● Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week. For best results, spread the time out over several days. ● Do strength training exercises at least twice a week. Lifting weights builds muscle, which means the body burns more calories.

● It's important to keep in mind that when people are active they produce more free radicals. The antioxidants found in supplements can help buffer the negative effects of the workout.

Improving your diet, exercising regularly, taking a daily supplement and getting enough restorative sleep are all important steps to overall wellness. Work to incorporate each step into your daily routine until you reach your goal of good health.

Source: eLivingToday.com FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Cooking an elaborate meal takes time, but we narrow down some of our favourite easy-toprepare foods for you to try.

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Honey Barbecue Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe courtesy of The National Honey Board Servings: 4 § 2 ½ cups whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs § 2 eggs, beaten • 1/4 cup honey • 2/3 cup whole-wheat flour • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp pepper • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce • 1/3 cup milk • 900g skinless, boneless chicken tenders • nonstick cooking spray • Honey Barbecue Dipping Sauce: 1/4 cup barbecue sauce • 2 tbsp honey

SWEET

& Swift

A sweet, splendid twist to chicken tenders and a light, refreshing after-school or evening dessert that can be whipped up in minutes

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or many households, there are some requirements when you make time to cook a family meal.

Each component must be something you can prepare quickly around extra-curricular activities and homework, and it must feature foods that even the pickiest of eaters will happily devour.

These simple recipes can help you focus that precious time on catching up around the table together. Find more family-friendly recipes at Culinary.net.

A sweet dinner idea Chicken is a favourite for all ages, and this recipe gives crunchy chicken a sweet twist that’s sure to earn clean plates. Baked, not fried, these tenders are a healthier take on traditional dippers.

The tangy barbecue sauce and sweet honey mixed right into the breading makes them tasty on their own, but even better dipped in a sweet honey barbecue sauce that complements those flavours. Look for more sweet meal ideas at honey.com.

Method: § Heat an oven to 400°C. Cover a baking sheet with a parchment paper. § In a large bowl, mix the flour and panko with the salt and pepper. In another large bowl, whip together the barbecue sauce, milk, eggs and honey. Dip the tenders in the wet mixture then generously roll the chicken tenders in the panko mix. Spray the tenders with a nonstick cooking spray. § To make Honey Barbecue Dipping Sauce: Combine the barbecue sauce and honey, stirring together until fully mixed. § Place the chicken strips on a baking sheet.

Bake for 10 minutes. Flip the tenders and bake until cooked through and outsides are crisp, for about 10 minutes. Serve with Honey Barbecue Dipping Sauce.

Frozen Lemonade Cupcakes Recipe courtesy of Nestlé Kitchens Delicious desserts in minutes These no-bake frozen cupcakes are the perfect size for a light and refreshing after-school or evening dessert. Creamy and tart, they’re just the right blend of flavour for a treat the whole family can enjoy.

Even better, the preparation time is minimal so you can whip up a batch after bedtime and have them ready to enjoy the next day. Or ask your little ones for help with making the cakes for a fun activity together.

Find more desserts you can share together at nestleusa.com

Method: § Prepare 18 muffin cups with 18 liners. Cut the pound cake into 18 slices. Using 1 3/4inch round cookie cutter or appropriate size to fit into the paper liners, cut the slices into rounds; discard the cake scraps or save for another use. Place the cake rounds into the paper liners. § In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and lemonade concentrate; stir well. Stir a large spoonful of whipped topping into the mixture. Fold in the remaining whipped topping. Spoon evenly into the liners.

• Freeze for two hours. Cover; freeze for several hours, or overnight, before serving.

Garnish with lemon peel, if desired.

Servings: 18 Ingredients: § 1 frozen pound cake (300g), reducedfat or fat-free § 1 can (415ml) Nestlé La Lechera Fat Free Sweetened Condensed Milk or Nestlé Carnation Sweetened Condensed Milk § 1 container (170g) frozen lemonade or limeade concentrate, partially thawed § 1 tub (340g) frozen light whipped topping, thawed § grated lemon peel (optional)

Source: Family Features FEB 22 - 28 / ISSUE 508

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New Restaurant

REVIEWS

Mid et k Mar Info Box

KAMAT RESTAURANT

Adjacent to Shah Nagardas, Ruwi, Oman Opening Hours: 10:30am to 3pm and 6:30pm to 11:30pm Contact: 2479 3355 Dinner for four: RO12.705

KAMAT RESTAURANT

Verdict : 8/10 SERVICE 7/10 FOOD 8/10 AMBIENCE Delectable food at nominal rates and in an upmarket setting.

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

SOUTH MEETS NORTH, AND A BIT OF CHINA TOO, AT THIS INDIAN RESTAURANT. ALVIN THOMAS SPLURGES ON WARMING SPICES, HAUNTING FLAVOURS AND EXOTIC SWEETS FOR AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE… BUT FOR THE MAIDA-HEAVY ROTIS AND A LITTLE LESS SOFT PANEER

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amat, a popular Indian name, has been creating waves in Oman. No, it’s not what you think – your friend Kamat hasn’t risen to fame overnight.

I’m talking about the Kamat Restaurant – and it’s garnering much attention from expats and Omanis alike.

To test out whether it’s indeed worthy of its popularity, we headed to the branch in Ruwi this week. Interestingly, there’s an ongoing Rajasthani festival that should deliver you authentic and (assumingly) delectable north Indian dishes.

But the menu brims with everything from north and south Indian, all the way to Indo-Chinese cuisine. Think of it as a one-stop shop for all. Also commendable is the cleanliness of the interiors.

Reviews online say otherwise, but I found the seating area and the washrooms to be spotless.

Eager to try out the dinner menu for size, we first opted for a Chilly Idly (Chinese-style) and Paneer Rolls.

The former stood out with its strong flavours

JUST MAKE SURE YOU KEEP YOUR STOMACH EMPTY FOR THE BETTER PART OF THE DAY AND YOU’LL LEAVE WITH A SMILE ON YOUR FACE AND AN INCREASED WAISTLINE

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and zest, while the accompanying paneer set the tone right for what was to follow. The crust of the paneer roll was reminiscent to that of a samosa, and we took a shying to it instantly. Three kinds of dips (chutneys) were a part of the meal as well.

Our next choice was the (“unlimited”) Gujarati Thali – complete with paneer butter masala, dal tarka (lentil), zucchini curry, curd, paapad, roti, rice and carrot halwa.

The standout dishes among the lot were the dal tarka and the paneer curry. While the dal was delightful, I also found the paneer butter masala to be scrumptious. Although, I must point out that the paneer wasn’t as soft as what you’d get in rival 046

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restaurants like Kesar or Ghasitaram Halwai and the rotis were definitely heavy on maida (processed flour).

Still, the carrot halwa was lip-smackingly delicious and light on the tummy. Most eateries in the region load halwa with ghee, thereby making it a standalone heavy meal.

We washed it all down with a glass of flavoured lassi, which came free with the thali. The spices in the drink were splendid – and I gulped it down with no haste.

In all, we had a hearty meal and deduced it to be worthy of its fame in the country. Sure, it has a long way to go if it were to take on the giants such as Kesar, but it still happens to be one of those must-visit restaurants in town. Just make sure you keep your stomach empty for the better part of the day and you’ll leave with a smile on your face and an increased waistline.

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