JAN 2 – 8 • ISSUE 251 • WEEKLY
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DISCOVER RUINS 38 OF OLD TANUF
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NOVEMBER 24 / ISSUE 258
The Easy Weight Loss Plan
PHONES THAT BEND BUT DON’T BREAK 45
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CAR OF THE WEEK 46 VW PASSAT
Y Magazine - Full Page 24x34cm
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EDITOR’S
NOTE
Y ONLINE Welcome to the new look Y Tabloid- your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has to offer.
When we launched a new look Y last week as Oman’s premium free tabloid, we were responding to a real hunger for intelligent, inspiring articles alongside a healthy sprinkling of new ideas about food, fashion and technology. We’ve already received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback from readers, appreciative of Y’s fresh new look and smart content. And things can only get better. Now in order to complete the package, we’re about to launch a new look website with all the techy trimmings. Aimed to update you on all things hip, happening and Y related, it will be the site that you can’t help but bookmark. As ever, we’d love to hear your news, views and thoughts before the big launch, so please email me at editor@y-oman.com Andis excestrunt, nusanis autem dolupta tessinus es et fugiam il everi ommos sequodipsum quunt, siti andusci psamus, corrore rspienis ulpar
THIS WEEK…
Fast forward I
have a confession to make – and it’s an embarrassing one. Wait for it. I am addicted to business books. I get excited by innovation and admire people who have the get up and go to fulfill their potential. They don’t wait for fate’s intervention or fortune’s wheel to turn – they create their own luck with talent, drive and determination. That’s why I’m thrilled to hear that so many bright young things are currently shaping the future of Oman with their entrepreneurial spirit. Read their stories, follow their advice and who knows – you too may become the next Bill Gates or Richard Branson. Finally, unless you have been living under a rock for the past couple of days, you’ll know that it’s now 2013 – Woo-hoo! Let’s hope it’s a good one. Here’s wishing you all a blessing filled new year.
Team Y have been sharpening their Cat que sedi velit ut laborum int elbows and bagging bargains at Muscat que nest, aut veratur, torum City Centre, crying over injured Wadi 0971 1234 5678 dogs, lusting after Stella McCartney’s new snakeskin bag and touring Muscat’s beautiful beaches. Plus, we’ve been ringing in the new year with delicious mocktails.
CALLING ALL BUDDING JOURNOS We pride ourselves on being pioneering, cool and reader orientated. As such, we’re eager to embrace the latest trend in citizen journalism. We already know how amazingly brilliant and bright you are through our interactions on Facebook, Twitter and email, now we want to see more of your contributions in print. If you have an idea for an article, an amazing photograph or just spotted something interesting in your neighbourhood, please email me at editor@y-oman.com or get in touch via our social media sites. We can’t wait to expand Team Y.
Penny Fray
editor@y-oman.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF Sayyida Iman bint Hamad bin Hamood Al Busaidi CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eihab Abutaha CONTRIBUTOR Kate Ginn, Joe Gill, Becs Morice, Chevron Mosquera
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JAN 2 – JAN 8 / ISSUE 251
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contents JANUARY 2 2013
06
Your Oman 06 Voice of Oman Reader’s Letters 10 The Big Interview Interior Design Guru 11 News Seeb Seafood Bounty
Food & Drink 27 Pop Cakes Trendy New Treats 28 New Restaurant Indus 29 Food Review Café Barbera 30 Gallery Tourism Graduation 31 Nightlife Park Inn
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Features 20 Bright Young Things Business Special 24 Islamic Banking A Simple Guide 26 2013 Stars Your Year Ahead
This Week 14 What’s on Guide A Calendar of Events 16 The Gallery Willy Wonka 18 Movies Fab Films
14 Health & Beauty 32 Fashion Power Prints 34 Tried & Tested Lyric Perfume 35 Promotion Shop of the Week 36 Health Weight Loss Special
26 Cars & Outdoors 38 On Location Wadi Tanuf 41 Outdoors Golf 42 My Hood MQ 44 Y-Fi Gadget Geeks 46 Car Of The Week VW Passat
41 NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...
oman’s book famine mocktails & meetings honeymoon fashion make-up trends cool new gadgets hip unhotels socialite gallery
The Voice of Oman
Step away from the box – Nadim Attieh encourages his children to play their way to good health.
correspondence LOVE THE NEW LOOK Y
(letter of the week) Dear Y,
H
aving children is probably the greatest joy in life, but taking care of them can be tough, especially when it comes to luring them away from the perils of technology. Most kids these days spend half their waking day watching television or playing computer games, they don’t exercise and their brains are turning into mush as a result. That’s why I’ve limited my two children’s access to modern machinery. After all, research shows that the more kids watch TV before the age of three, the more likely they are to develop attention problems later. This is due to the fact that a child’s brain triples in size during the first two years of life, and prolonged exposure to rapid images pre-conditions the mind to expect high levels of stimulation. Young minds need time to process information or learning difficulties and integration problems ensue. And let’s not even go into the health problems that result from a sedentary lifestyle – from obesity to type 2 diabetes. It’s time to embrace retro parenting and encourage children to get out and be active. Of course, I realise we’re living in a technological age, but there’s something a bit sad about the thought of a child not running about and doing what kids should do – play! Youngsters need more real-time play and less fast-paced media. The quicker a parent gets the balance right, the better. After all, if you change the beginning, you change the whole story. Next week: meet an Omani socialite
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I’ve just read Y Tabloid online, and there is so much information in it. Wow! Keep it up. I love it. The whole new look is terrific, fabulous, extraordinary, colourful, incredible, awesome, sensational, out of this world, stunning, spectacular, superb, excellent, aweinspiring, magnificent, brilliant, wonderful, amazing, groovy, cool, impressive and colossal – I could go on and on…Congratulations to Penny and the team. Whether it’s news, events, eateries, beauty, fashion, movies, gadgets or adventure, it’s all there – in print and online. Of course, the cover story is important – there is litter everywhere. The main roads of Oman are clean because of the hard work of the green municipality brigade, but after every holiday the picnic spots are a mess. The hypermarkets need to start charging for plastic bags. Put hoardings all over the place saying ‘Keep Oman Clean’. Educating the masses through the community is important. I wish the whole Y team a happy new year. Regards, Vijayalakshmi R Shetty Dear Vijayalakshmi, Thank you for the super encouraging feedback. We’ve been overwhelmed by people’s well wishes and positivity on Facebook and by e-mail. Of course, we refuse to rest on our laurels, and we’ll strive to go from strength to strength. Reader input is important to us, so keep the stories, letters and comments coming. After all, our success is your success because we couldn’t do it without you. Best wishes, The Editor
A GOOD EXAMPLE Dear Editor, I was so inspired by the story about the girls’ basketball team. It just goes to show what can be achieved with determination, teamwork, athleticism and great leadership. Yours sincerely, Lizzie Morris-Jones
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SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to info@y-oman.com / @ ytabloid / http://www.facebook.com/ ytabloid. Impress us and we’ll send the winning correspondent a 40OR voucher to use at the Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat.
YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US
NEW YEAR, NEW Y Dear Team Y, The new year begins with a new look Y in a new, handy format. The cover story on litter is a reminder to us all to preserve a clean, green environment for the benefit of all. With the weather now suitable for outdoor picnics, we should be careful to put the litter in the dustbins provided on the beaches and in parks, or if there are none, carry it back in trash bags. Most importantly we should discipline children about litter when they are outdoors. Children watch adults and
Debate of the Week We asked: What is your New Year’s resolution? Here are some of the things our readers said…
LETTERS
E-MAILS
copy them. One of our new year resolutions is to stop littering. Together we can make a difference. Best wishes, Sunil D Dear Y The new Y has so much to offer us – from the editor’s note to readers’ feedback, the interviews, news and the main features. Y has certainly proved that good things come in small packages. The best part was the cover story
I'm a reader
FA C E B O O K
about respecting and preserving our environment, and the launch of the Big Bus around Muscat. I must say that this is the first time that any magazine has started tackling the kind of issues that affect humanity. Hats off to you, Y team. May your hunt for new things never come to an end. Please keep informing and entertaining us with your captivating articles. Wishing you all a very happy new year for 2013. Best wishes, Arshi Khan
Mahmoud Radwan, was spotted with a copy of Y Magazine at Lo Chef in Seeb
Vivek Ramaiya: Not to make them if you can’t keep them. Mysteriouss Fefe: Collect a copy of Y every week. Jordan Green: To get more blessings and appear on the pages of Y. Karl Baz: To turn vegetarian – or at least try to! Jayne Lloyd: To spend less time in the office, make more friends and appreciate the amazing things around me. Life is going to be wonderful in 2013. Brij El Chavda: Study hard for the final year of high school. Sudheesh Pal: Wake up before 6am daily and do 15 minutes of yoga. Arshi Sarfaraz: To be a true human being and help the needy in the best possible way. Sherrin Finoj: Make life more beautiful by doing good things, helping others and trying to find happiness in the little things.
This Week’s Debate: January is National mentoring month. Which skill could you teach? Tell us on Facebook
THIS IS YOUR PAGE!
Just send us your picture with the free Y magazine or pose with our photographer and we will publish it on this page Send it to: info@y-oman.com
JAN 2 – JAN 8 / ISSUE 251
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YOUR
News
Gallery
INTERVIEW
OMAN
INSIDE
CHOICES Nidhal Al Brashdi, a designer for ‘n dot interiors’
Nidhal’s Work Philosophy 1. Listen to your client 2. Aim to bring people’s dreams to life 3. Strike a balance between innovation and practicality
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Nidhal’s passion for interiors pushed her to start her own business
Words by: Karima Farid
Tell me about your new business: I took a leap of faith and started my own interior design business – N Dot Interiors – earlier this year. It’s the best decision I ever made because it’s been such an interesting and stimulating experience. Of course, there are times when you face difficulties that take you out of your comfort zone, but they nearly always teach you things that you wouldn’t have learnt otherwise. How do you help your clients? I’m very intuitive because the main part of my job is to make people happy with their space, but turning their vision into a reality requires cooperation and communication. Some people can’t express themselves the way they would like to, so it’s important to listen to what they have to say or put yourself in their shoes. Of course, I also want to make a statement, so I’ll often introduce innovative ideas to the client, and encourage them to be brave and push boundaries. As you can imagine, it’s a fine balance. What’s been the high point of your career thus far? The highlights are yet to come, but I treat every project as a momentous one. I’m truly thankful to have had the opportunity to design two commercial projects already. The very first was ‘Yogelato’ at the Muscat Grand Mall and the second was ‘Raz Spa’ at Madinat Qaboos. I am currently working on the interior of a new location for ‘Dar Al Aseel’, a fashion retail store for women, as well as a few other residential projects. How do you chill out? I am really passionate about what I do, and constantly find things to inspire and motivate me. I like to think of myself as a hard worker, but when I want to relax I’ll either read nonfiction books or snack while watching sitcoms.
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FEEDING FRENZY
Photos by Yousef Al Harrassi, Abdul Wahid
Hundreds flock to the beach to harvest seafood bounty
Al Hamadani Words: Kate Ginn
From first light, the people and cars started arriving at Seeb beach. In groups or alone, they set to work harvesting thousands of ma’awanneh shells that had been washed up on the shore by the strong winds. According to locals, it has been seven years since the phenomenon last happened, so nobody wasted any time in collecting their share. By 9am on Saturday morning, the beach was filled with people hauling bags of the seafood to their cars. Children joined in, using their nimble little fingers to scoop out the ma’awanneh buried in the sand and pools of water. The shells, which contain a mollusc that tastes a little like squid, are swept on to shore by a unique combination of rain, cool conditions and windy weather. It usually happens every two or three years, but there has been something of a drought recently. So when dawn broke on Saturday and word spread that the ma’awanneh were back at last, the feeding frenzy began. “I’ve been here for just an hour and already collected a big bag,” said Malik Habib, 24. His bulging bag was enough for two or three days of food. Ma’awanneh is traditionally cooked in water and then served with rice or salad, drizzled with lemon or spices. “My dad and grandfather would always be here when ma’awanneh came,” said Walid. “Usually it is every two or three years. We knew when it was cold and there had been a big wave that the ma’awanneh would be here, that’s why I came down. It’s very special.” Five generations of Asma Salim’s family are ma’awanneh gatherers. “It’s been seven years since the last time,” she said. “We have been waiting for a long time.”
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Green Wake Up Call
New campaign urges us all to do our bit to protect the environment
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t’s our environment, and every one of us must play a part in preserving it – or face losing it, at least according to a hard-hitting new campaign from the Environment Society of Oman (ESO). Called ‘Your Environment is Your Responsibility’, the intensive eight-day awareness crusade aims
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to encourage people in Oman to become involved at ground level in looking after their own country. Starting yesterday (January 1) until the 8th, the official date of Oman Environment Day, ESO will broadcast messages and tips on the radio, giving advice on anything from recycling to saving water. “The recent natural catastrophes
around the world only bring us closer to realising the importance of taking responsibility for our environment today and every day,” said Dana Sarhan, public relations officer and board member at ESO. “We hope that we can raise awareness of how every one of us can contribute to making Oman a better place.” Messages in both Arabic and English are to be broadcast on the hour during programmes at Merge 104.8 and Al Wisal, partners of the ESO campaign and a leading part of the SABCO Media group. Key officials and environmental experts will also take part in a live debate at the end of the campaign. Nadim Attieh, station manager at Al Wisal and Merge 104.8, said: “We are very pleased to announce our partnership with ESO as we reinforce our role as responsible
corporate citizens by playing a part in conserving Oman’s natural heritage and resources. “This is a wake-up call for people.” Topics such as protecting Oman’s unique wildlife and flora will be touched on, as well as green issues such as littering. Y Tabloid reported last week how litter was ruining the natural beauty of the country, and scarring wadis and beaches. ESO believes that only when people understand that their heritage could be lost will they be moved to take action. “One of the problems in Oman is that people do not feel it’s their responsibility, they see it as someone else’s problem,” said Sarhan. “We need to get across that all of us are responsible for the environment. “It can start with just little things such as limiting water waste and saving electricity. “One of the biggest issues in Oman is recycling. Recycling waste uses a lot of water, and we have a water shortage in the region.” Progress is being made, however. From the beginning of this year, 1,000 homes in the Muscat area will start disposing of their rubbish in their own individual plastic bins. Municipality workers will collect these every morning. Reported By Kate Ginn
T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E January
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A passage to spiritual enlightenment Life is short – just look at the butterfly’s brief life span. That’s why it’s so important to cram all things beautiful into your diary now – from nature and dance to music and art. One exquisite exhibition well worth seeing before it closes on January 14 is the Lightness of a Butterfly by Khaled Al Saai.
Bringing new meaning to traditional painting, the artist uses colours that are full of energy. The work is open to the public at the new branch of the Bait Muzna Gallery at the Opera Galleria. For more information on the timings of the exhibition and further details visit www. baitmuznagallery.com
THIS
WEEK
What to do. What to see. What to hear.
J A N U A R Y LISTEN UP WHO: Long live the King! Elvis is
in the building
WHAT: Release of album Return
to Sender featuring 75 original classics from All Shook Up to Love Me Tender WHEN : Released 7 January 2013 WHERE: From amazon
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JANUARY
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Gallery
Movies
PARTY ON New Year’s Eve was a quiet affair thanks to next day’s work. But if you want to welcome 2013 with a real bang, then attend the big party at Barka Farm House on January 3, from 7pm to 4am. Expect amazing music from various DJs, belly dancing, water fights and zorb balling. Organised by Crazy Eyes, ticket prices start from RO5.
JAN
Gallery
Movies
DON’T MISS Picture by Jerzy Wierzbicki
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T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E
Go! CLASS ACT
We’re all for embracing beauty and all things spiritual this month, that’s why we’re off to visit the Grand Mosque. It’s simply stunning. One of the largest mosques in the Arab world, its highest minaret reaches nearly 100m.
Book your tickets now for the chance to see electrifying brazilian dance from Deborah Colker, Cirque du Soleil’s first woman choreographer, and her company. Royal Opera House Muscat 16 & 17 January. Tickets www.rohmuscat.org.om
The 21st Gulf Cup is set to happen in Bahrain from January 5-18, so don’t forget to cheer on Oman’s national football team as they compete for the second time. Register at www.ofa.om for chances to win big prizes including an all expenses paid trip to Bahrain to support Oman.
TUNE IN
CALLING ALL FASHION FIENDS Forget Paris, London , Milan and New York – when it comes to pioneering styles, there’s nowhere quite like Oman. Muscat Fashion Week will showcase all the best of Arabic vogue. For more information, go to www. muscatfashionweek.com
January 1
WHAT: 8-day awareness campaign by the Environment Society of Oman WHERE: Broadcasts on the hour, every hour, on radio stations Merge 104.8 and Al Wisal. WHEN: From January 1st to January 8th (official Oman Environment Day) MORE INFO: www.environment.org.om
IT’S ALL KIDS PLAY
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January
FOOTBALL FEVER
January
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Struggling to find trendy clothes for your fashion-conscious little ones? Head down to the first The Children’s Place store in Oman now open in Muscat Grand Mall. We love the outfits and accessories from the North American retailer guaranteed to keep even the most demanding newborn to 14-years-old happy.
Must Read The Fast Diet by Michael Mosley and Mimi Spencer from Amazon Boring, expensive and repetitive – we don’t usually do diets here at Y Towers – but seeing that it’s a new year and we’ve eaten more than out fair share of mince pies – perhaps we better drop a couple of pounds. The latest fad programme to hit the market is the Fast Diet because it helps you lose weight with minimum hassle. Sounds good to us.
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THIS WEEK
The What’s On Guide
Movies
GALLERY
School’s Out Hard work pays off: A new batch of graduates from Oman Tourism college collect Their well-earned diplomas.
The students receive their graduation awards
Exterior of the main college building
The awards keep coming
HE Dr Muna Salim Al Jardaniah, undersecretary of the Ministry of Manpower Dr Muna Salim Al Jardaniah and Abdullah Al Sarmi
College dean - Dr Obaid Mohamed Al Saidy
Photographed by: Jerzy Wierzbicki
Graduation time
Guests of the event
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HE Dr Abdullah Mohammed Al Sarmi, undersecretary in the Ministry of Higher Education
A student receives a diploma
THIS WEEK
MOVIES MOVIES MOVIES THIS WEEK’S MOVIES For more information and times, go to: City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net Star Cinema: Tel 24791641
The Impossible
Dabangg 2 The sunglasses are back on and super cop Chulbul ‘Robin Hood’ Pandey is back on the big screen and ready for more action. Fans of the first film won’t be disappointed, as the tongue-incheek humour continues in the second instalment – along with plenty of fights and even more explosive firepower. Expect the same gun-toting, wise-cracking fun, but on a grander scale. This time, though, the adventure kicks off in Kanpur where Pandey
(Salman Khan), who is now married to Rajjo (Sonakshi Sinha), finds himself crossing guns with a local hoodlum. The rather weighty songs list could have done with a bit of a trim, but the film delivers on pure entertainment value, and Khan is on form as always. Indeed, Dabangg 2 broke box office records in its opening weekend in India at the end of last month, securing Khan’s place as the kingpin of Bollywood.
The true story of one family’s struggle to survive the devastating Tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in 2004. Caught up with thousands of strangers in one of the worst natural catastrophes of our time, it’s a compelling account of the power of the human spirit. Ewan
After a series of action roles, Hollywood heartthrob Gerard Butler returns to romantic comedy playing a former professional soccer player who tries to redeem himself by coaching his son’s football team. Fluffy but fun.
Universal Soldier, Day of Reckoning The fourth outing in the Universal Soldier franchise follows the same formula as before. Expect plenty of sweat, guns and fisticuffs. Ultimate hard men Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren come to the rescue, as usual.
The Tall Man Creepy thriller starring Jessica Biel as a mother who tries to unravel the mystery of the Tall Man – a legendary figure who is said to abduct children in the town of Cold Rock – when her own child goes missing. Will she uncover the truth?
Y’s TOP TWO LIFE OF PI 1
This magical adaption of the Booker Prizewinning book has captivated critics and audiences alike. It tells the story of Pi Patel, a boy who finds himself adrift on a lifeboat with a 450-pound Bengal tiger for company. A stunning 3D visual feast with a final twist.
PREVIEW PLAYING FOR KEEPS
McGregor and Naomi Watts reunite to take the lead roles. Powerful and moving.
American Mary
Canadian horror film that follows medical student, Mary Mason as she succumbs to the lure of easy money in the macabre world of ‘underground’ surgeries. Graphic scenes.
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COMING UP NEXT WEEK Chinese Zodiac/Parental Guidance/Melancholia 018
JAN 2 – JAN 8 / ISSUE 251
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S ’ W O R R O M TO
O O C Y T T
hey’re young, ambitious and intent on making their mark on the world of business while flying the flag for a new generation in Oman. Meet tomorrow’s trailblazing tycoons who are hungry for success and have set their sights on conquering their chosen fields on a global scale. These fledgling entrepreneurs personify the dynamic spirit of modern Oman, embracing change while remaining true to their roots. They are the nascent generation of go-getters, emerging in tandem with a growing country adapting to a fast moving landscape. Despite their relative youth, many of these junior captains of industry already have their own blossoming businesses, while others have a germ of an idea that could be the next big thing. One is aged just 15 and still at school, juggling her thriving bakery business with lessons and homework. Another is already in the process of selling an idea to big corporate firms. What they all share is the vision to think big, the self-confidence to go it alone, the will to make it happen – and a sprinkling of the indefinable quality that’s needed to be a success in business. Whether it’s for cupcakes or architecture, these aspirational young men and women see themselves as the next movers and shakers in the world of work. Who knows? With hard work and good luck, they could be the next Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Alsaud, Steve Jobs or Sheryl Sandberg, the chief operating officer of Facebook, Harvard graduate and one of the most powerful women in business, according to Forbes magazine. Here Y meets the budding wheelerdealers and discovers how they intend to make it to the top.
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Meet The entrepreneurs who want to make it big in business – And shape the future of Oman
Words By Kate Ginn
S N O MOHAMMED WAHEED AL LAWATI Age: 24 CEO Mathaq Enterprise
A
s chief executive officer of a start-up company with an award-winning product, Mohammed is already a seasoned businessman. His conversation is peppered with business speak and talk of things such as “global reach” and “brand growth”. Pretty impressive considering that he’s still just a student, studying for a marketing degree at the Higher College of Technology in Muscat. Last year, Mohammed and 10 colleagues – all students – founded Mathaq Enterprise. Serious brainstorming for an idea that could be mass-produced and marketed resulted in the ‘tea-bag spoon’, a cleverly simple little concept for a country of tea lovers. The design features a cardboard ‘spoon’ attached to a tea-bag, which can be hooked onto the end of a cup or mug to sit and infuse. “Everyone drinks tea. We wanted to do something easier and cleaner for drinkers,” says Mohammed.
“You don’t need to use a plastic spoon, so it’s good for the environment too.” He adds: “We did a lot of market research to see which flavours were most in demand. “We use Sri Lankan tea with Omani flavours such as mint, ginger, cardamom and Omani thyme. “Within eight months of starting from scratch, we had the product, we had investors and we had the capital to start production.” Mathaq now supplies tea-bag spoons to a total of eight companies in Oman and Bahrain. “Our product can be used as a marketing tool for companies, we can put company logos on the spoons,” says Mohammed. Last October, Mathaq was named Student Company of the Year
by Injaz Oman, a nonprofit organisation that works to nurture young business talent. A month later it scooped the Most Innovative Product Award in a regional competition in Qatar, beating 13 other teams to take the prize. Mohammed and his co-workers are talking and thinking big. Ideas in the pipeline include a new production workshop, different Omani flavours with a twist and possible expansion into the retail food market. “We have to be multinational,” says Mohammed. “My dream is to have a group of companies, in Oman and abroad. I believe there are great chances in Oman to be a success, everyone is looking towards business.”
AFRA AL BALUSHI Age: 15 Founder of Flora For Cupcakes
S
choolgirl Afra al Balushi started baking cupcakes at the age of 11 after becoming fascinated with watching her mother make the family’s weekly chocolate cake. Now, four years later, she has a thriving business selling her creations and an ambitious head on her young shoulders. “I want to be a businesswoman. My dream is to open my own bakery,” she says. Her path to becoming a teen tycoon began with just a hobby, making cupcakes for family and friends. As word spread, however, orders started coming in from outside. Soon, she was taking over her mother’s kitchen at weekends and after school in order to meet the huge demand for her products. Flora For Cupcakes was born (Flora is her nickname) with the help of social media, a Facebook and Twitter page. “One of my biggest orders was from a charity for 255 cupcakes. I made them all by myself at home. I started at 5am and finished at 4pm”, says Afra. “My unique touch is edible glitter that I get from the UK.” Top sellers are peanut butter flavour and red velvet. With prices of 500 baisas per cake (800 if you want iced letters and two rials for home delivery) she’s turning a nice little profit. All the baking and business has to be fitted in with homework and lessons. “As I’m still at school, I have to manage my time,” she says. “When I come home from school, I do two hours of study then it’s time for baking. “My parents are both very supportive. My dad is involved with business, so he has helped me, and I get ideas for new flavours from my mum and aunt.” One of four girls, Afra believes her generation of young women in Oman are a new breed of businessminded girls, with an eye on the global boardroom. “Education motivates us and gives us inspiration to be creative in life. “It’s acceptable for girls to want to be a success in business. Some of my friends also have businesses, doing things like making accessories. “Oman is really changing, with more hotels, tourism and shops: I’m really looking forward to the next five years to see what happens.” Afra intends to go to university abroad in Scotland but sees her future in Oman, motivating the next generation of female entrepreneurs. “I want to bring motivation and creativity to Oman,” she says. “I want to give awareness to people that they are free to be creative. I want to be inspirational to others.”
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EITHAR AL HASANI Age: 21 Architectural Engineering student on a mission to change the world
luxury but it isn’t.” Dressed in her abaya and headscarf, Eithar looks pretty conventional. Some, however, may find her notions somewhat radical. She was instrumental in introducing paper recycling at Sultan Qaboos University – where
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MUTHIR AL KHARUSI Age: 16 Student and budding entrepreneur
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till at school, Muthir al Kharusi already has his future mapped out: university, qualify as a mechanical engineer, start his own business, and make millions. “I want to be the boss,” he says. “Our generation know what we want, we are quite dynamic and looking to the future. “I understand that just one idea can change your whole life.” A pupil at The Sultan’s School, Muthir believes the key is an education that builds the right foundation. “I’m studying the International Baccalaureate, which teaches you about life and also teaches you a different way of thinking from the normal person. “My parents are very open minded and have encouraged me to embrace different cultures. “We need to make sure the young in Oman are given a chance to embrace their creative side and are helped to build on it. It will be so important in the future to be able to create new business ideas.” His enthusiasm was fired up by a series of workshops on entrepreneurship at the Muscat Youth Summit 2012, which was held last month. “I just felt it inspired the belief in me that I could start my own business instead of just sitting in an office. “In Oman, we have a country where there are a lot of open markets, a lot of small, niche markets.” Muthir wants an engineering degree – his father is an engineer – as a solid base and something to fall back on if his dreams of becoming a big shot magnate don’t quite work out. It seems unlikely. He already has a head full of tangible ideas and the determination to turn them into a reality. One is a company planning and organising events, such as weddings or concerts, launched as a smartphone app allowing people to choose their own music and food for the celebration while on the move. “In just 40 years, Oman has changed so dramatically it’s unbelievable,” says Muthir. “It’s not just down to the government to change things, it’s the people who have to move forward. “The opportunities are there for anyone prepared to take the risk and make it happen.”
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f Eithar al Hasani has her way, she will be directly influencing how and in what way people live in Oman in the future. She describes a visionary time of recycling, eco houses and environmentally friendly towns and cities where the car is no longer king. Architecture, as she sees it, is fundamental to preserving Oman’s cultural identity. “Art has been my passion,” she says. “And architecture is art. “I am talking about building structures that don’t throw away our culture. “They can still be modern and pretty, but just add simple elements so that when you look at it, you just know that it is Oman. “People think architecture is a
P.S You don’t need to be young to start your own business and embrace the entrepreneurial spirit. Salma al Hajri
Age: 40 Oman’s first chocolatier
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t the age of 40, Salma al Hajri has just taken a year’s sabbatical from her full-time job as a training specialist at Sultan Qaboos University to concentrate on taking her handmade chocolate business to the next level. “I want my chocolates to be sold in Harrods,” she says. “It is not just a dream, it is a plan. One day, it will come true.” Boredom was the motivation for Salma. “I had a full-time job but I didn’t have a husband or children and I was really bored. I wasn’t happy doing nothing,” she explains. “I began searching for a hobby to keep me busy. My idea was to turn this hobby into a business. I’m a chocoholic, so I began searching on the internet for ideas.” And so Salma Chocolates was born. With the help of her aunt, Aisha, their first efforts, orange truffles, were an instant hit. An official licence to become the first chocolatiers in Oman followed. “We wanted to produce a high-quality product that was Omani,”
“I see our generation is really changing very fast,” she says. “I feel very happy and excited about the future. Young entrepreneurs will lead the way”
Y’s Tips on how to be a successful entrepreneur 1
Think of a great idea Most businesses start with one compelling idea – whether it’s a service people need or a product, or a combination of both. Often the best ideas are the
she is in the final year of her degree – with Project Greenway. Boxes were placed outside professors’ rooms for waste paper, and within two weeks she had collected three tons. Despite an initially lukewarm reception, Eithar intends to plough on and set up a permanent recycling programme at SQU. During a Muscat Youth Summit workshop, she was taken, with other students, to The Wave complex and tasked with making suggestions on how it could be improved. She hopes that some of their ideas – more shops, better lighting and safety measures for children and pets – will be incorporated into the project’s development.
She has ideas for an ice cream business and a novel recyclable Green Omani Notebook. At university, she can often be found changing out of her abaya and into dusty overalls, boots and a construction hat, mixing concrete. (As an architectural engineering student, she has to understand how buildings are constructed.) All in all, Eithar is a force to be reckoned with. “I see our generation is really changing very fast,” she says. “I feel very happy and excited about the future. Young entrepreneurs will lead the way. “The key point is to hold on to our culture. There is no reason not to be proud of who we are.”
most simple: think of the paperclip or coat hanger! If you don’t have an idea, think of an area that interests you, do some research and brainstorm. Remember: it is not the idea that matters – it’s what you do with it that counts! 2
Do your market research Make sure you know your competitors and your target market. Your brand identity must be clear and strong.
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Write a business plan. Include details and descriptions, and plan everything out realistically.
says Salma. “We are two Omani ladies, and it was important to us that our brand and name reflected that.” A website and shop in Azaiba was next, with the support of Intajee, a corporate initiative to encourage community growth. The two women managed all the production, marketing and sales, on top of their full-time jobs. They take chocolate from Belgium and give it an Omani twist with flavours such as zatar and lemon, with the ingredients from local farmers. In just three years, Salma has proved herself an adept businesswoman with the nous to be a success. With the financial support of her family and aunt, she is taking a break from work to focus on chocolates. “One of our main missions is to promote our country,” she says. “We want to inspire young Omani people. We started our product with nothing, and within two years we were able to put income from sales back into the business. “My advice to any young person or anyone wanting to start a business is that you must have knowledge of your product, patience and a passion for what you do. “Do whatever you have to do to make it a success and one day you will reap the rewards.”
Think about marketing, sales, manufacturing and finance. 4
Get investors Pitch your idea to any potential investors or banks to get money to start your company. Make a PowerPoint presentation explaining your product and business plan.
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Start small but think big Pleasing a small number of customers and getting your name and product out there can be a great start, but never forget it’s all about growing your customer base.
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ISLAMIC BANKING IN 60 SECONDS
Everyone needs money. That’s something we can all agree on. But mention ‘banking’ and, understandably, most people switch off faster than an ATM swallowing your bank debit card. Here’s our easy guide to a complex issue.
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et’s face it; banks have not had the best press of late what with the international economic crisis and tales of staggeringly high banker bonuses. There’s also our natural assumption that anything to do with banks and banking will be dry, stodgy, bafflingly complex and, quite frankly, indescribably dull. Here’s the thing, though. Something is happening here, which could signal a financial revolution and even border on being exciting. It’s called Islamic banking and it’s arrived in Oman. From this month, a number of banks will be offering finance and banking activity that is consistent with the principles of Sharia law, following the long-awaited issuance of regulatory framework by the Central Bank of Oman (CBO). This move could sweep in a new era for banking services in the country, which is important even to those who claim financial ignorance or uninterest. In the interests of keeping your attention for longer than a few minutes, Y is outlining the basics of Islamic banking in an easy-to-read and lively style. So, here goes: Q. Is Islamic banking a new idea? A. No, not all. An early prototype called ‘Islamic capitalism’ was developed many years ago, between the eighth and 12th centuries. Modern Islamic banking is a little more recent, and was piloted in Egypt in 1963.
Q. How does it differ from conventional banking? A. Under Sharia law, making money from money, such as charging interest, is prohibited (usury or riba). Wealth should only be generated through legitimate trade and asset investment. Investing in businesses that provide goods or services considered contrary to Islamic principles, such as alcohol or gambling, is haraam (sinful or prohibited). Q. How does it work? A. It’s pretty simple, really. The one thing to always bear in mind is that you can’t earn any form of interest on your money. It works on the basis of risk sharing – the bank and the customer share the risks of any investment but also the profits. So it’s banking with morals. The bank purchases and sells/leases the assets to the customer. Q. Banks must be making something out of it though? A. Of course, ethics aside Islamic banking has the same purpose as conventional banking: to make money for the banking or financial institute. The difference is that making money is not the sole purpose. Ensuring fair play and adherence to Islamic law is more important. Q. What can I get from an Islamic bank? A. All the traditional banking services expected from a conventional bank are available in a Sharia-compliant bank. Q. Is anyone keeping any eye on the banks? A. Yes, absolutely. Each bank will have its own independent Sharia board, with a minimum of three scholars, to supervise products and services.
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Q. Is it big business? A. You bet. Shariah-compliant assets reached about $400 billion throughout the world in 2009, and the potential market is an astonishing $4 trillion. The biggest markets are Iran, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. Six out of 10 top Islamic banks in the world are Iranian. Q. Will there be demand for it in Oman? A. Banks in Oman think so. They’ve done their research and say it’s been wanted for at least five years. Ahli Bank expects 10 to 15 per cent of its revenues to come from Islamic banking in the first year. Experts predict that lots of people who don’t currently deposit their money with banks due to religious beliefs will now do so. Q. Where can I open an account? A. Bank Nizwa and Alizz Islamic Bank are new dedicated Islamic banks. Existing commercial banks Ahli, Bank Muscat, National Bank of Oman, HSBC Bank of Oman, Bank Dhofar and Bank Sohar will also be offering Islamic banking alongside their conventional service. Q. Is any of this relevant to me? A. Well, that depends. Non-Muslims as well as Muslims are expected to be interested in opening or switching to Islamic banking. Think of it as banking with a conscience. Words: Kate Ginn
www.radiomerge.fm
It’s the dawn of a new musical era right here in Oman. Merge 104.8 is a celebration of cultures and a true reflection of diversity. Providing you with the best R’n’B, House, Rock, Lounge, 90s, and Pop music from around the world. Served with fresh local flavour.
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WHAT’S IN YOUR STARS? CAPRICORN
TAURUS
Dec 22 – Jan 19 You have the will to achieve great things this year, but domestic issues hinder deadlines and leave you feeling fed up and frustrated. Try to be a little less goal-orientated – and remember, there are more things to life than making money.
Apr 20 – May 20 An unexpected compliment from an influential colleague gives your self-esteem a much needed boost this month. Suddenly you feel capable of anything, including fulfilling long-awaited ambitions. Just don’t be nervous of taking risks.
AQUARIUS Jan 20 – Feb 18 Business comes before pleasure this month, but beware of letting a beautiful friendship slip through your fingers as a result. As the saying goes, no man (or woman) is an island. You need to spend more time with loved ones.
PISCES Feb 19 – Mar 20 You fall easily in and out of love, but this year sees you struggling to get over an emotional wound inflicted by an ambitious mate. Move on and throw yourself into a creative hobby instead. Come July, you’ll be surprised how recovery follows success.
ARIES
May 21 – June 21 While you have few qualms about engaging in frivolous debates, you really hate serious confrontations. But when an earth sign colleague seriously starts pushing your buttons, you explode. This is a year to reflect and keep calm – no matter what the provocation.
CANCER June 22 – July 22 You feel very blessed to have some good people around you at the moment. But you must control your tendency to smother loved ones with unreasonable demands. Care and control should never lie together in the same box.
LEO
Mar 21 – Apr 19 This is an amazing year for you. There are changes galore, and some good news in early February sees you brimming with positivity. Beware of picking fights with a fellow fire sign in late summer, though. You may not win.
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GEMINI
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July 23 – Aug 23 Expect a tough couple of months of all work and no play, leading to all manner of minor ailments. Slow down and learn to savour all the great things around you – including a potential soul mate. Life gets significantly more exciting in March.
Celebrity ‘intuitive’ Arianrhod exclusively predicts your year ahead for 2013.
VIRGO Aug 24 – Sep 22 We all know you have high standards, but sometimes you just need to go with the flow and discover what surprises come your way. Be receptive to change and both your working and personal life will improve as a result.
LIBRA Sep 23 – Oct 23 Guess what? You have an army of admirers right now, but they’ll quickly lose interest unless you behave a little better. Expect exciting new developments at work in late August.
SCORPIO Oct 24 – Nov 22 You’re a creature of infinite depths, but you have a habit of dragging your nearest and dearest down with you. Lighten up. This is the year to forgive old slights and embrace a positive new outlook on life.
SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 – Dec 21 Good news! This month sees financial abundance and plenty of lucky opportunities. Grab the good things while they’re around because the second half of 2013 is going to be a little tougher.
food and drink
Trend
New Restaurant
Reviews
Move over cupcakes, there’s a new trendy treat in town. Popcakes, neat little cakes served up on a stick, have become the fashionista’s dessert of choice because they have fewer calories and make less mess. Plus, you can have them made in your own image. Celebrities who have already been ‘popped’ include Madonna and Lady Gaga.
What’s trending now: The rise of the Instagram menu.
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food and drink
Trend
A Feast Fit For A King
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t’s worryingly easy to get stuck in a culinary rut. Dining in the same restaurants and ordering the same dishes day in, day out, is a common problem for many gourmands. We empathise. In fact, we empathise so much that we’re going to introduce you to somewhere new and exciting for 2013. The Indus, a fine-dining establishment that’s just opened at the Opera Galleria, is expected to usher a new level of haute cuisine into Oman. Overlooking the Royal Opera House courtyard, it boasts a spectacular setting and is one of the few Muscat restaurants to offer food from the North West Frontier. This unique cuisine is slowcooked over an open-fire, and is reminiscent of the ways of the nomadic tribes of the region. Add
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We wanted Oman to have an authentic North West Frontier and Indian experience, so we launched The Indus. the alchemy of Indian spicing and you get something very special. Indeed, head chef Arif, whose grandfather served as a royal
Reviews
New Restaurant
The Indus recreates the splendour of the royal courts of India with its gourmet menu and glamorous setting, says Penny Fray
cook in the legendary court of Nizam-ul-Mulk, has created a menu that oozes both passion and inventiveness. Diners can expect a variety of authentic meat and vegetarian kebabs, while main courses include a flamboyant medley of spicy curries and innovative tandoor-cooked breads, alongside special accompaniments. But it’s not all about the food, there’s also the chic decor to consider. Built by Khimji Ramdas, the Indus looks like something straight out of the pages of Homes & Gardens. The walls are adorned with Kashmiri shawls and the seats are accessorised with beautiful silk cushions. But the real talking point is the amazing sculpture by Omani artist Essa Ahmed Al Mafarji. “We wanted Oman to have an authentic North West Frontier and Indian experience, and so we
Did you know? Most kebabs owe their origin to North West Frontier cuisine. decided to launch The Indus,” explains Pankaj Khimji, a Khimji Ramdas director. “Our guests can not only sample the exotic flavours here, but also enjoy a refined ambiance that’s comparable with the best in the world. The Indus redefines fine dining in the Sultanate in a way that will not only make your evenings eminently memorable, but also allow you to offer a rare lunch experience to your corporate clients and guests.”
Trend
New Restaurant
Reviews Photographed by: Jerzy Wierzbicki
CAFÉ BARBERA A relaxing hangout when visiting the Shatti Plaza, says Penny Fray.
diner-meets-19th-century lounge was fascinating, and we spent more time scanning the venue’s shelves for antique books than looking at the actual menu. When the waiter eventually got our attention, we here’s nothing quite like ordered a cheese and tomato panini, the hype of a new film to and a pear and rocket salad. The latter lure you out of the house. looked amazingly fresh and appetising Desperate to see the Life of but there was an overload of leaves Pi, my friend and I ventured to Shatti and balsamic vinegar. The panini, with Al Qurum in the hope of picking up its generous helping of cheese and some last-minute cinema tickets. But beautifully toasted bread, fared better, getting sidetracked meandering along especially since it came with chunky the beach (and dodging mini hoodlums chips and salad. on bikes) meant that by the time we The service was efficient, but lacked arrived the cinema was packed. Not in warmth; there was no chitchat beyond the mood for crowds, we decided to skip taking our order and repeating it back the movie in favour of finding to us, plates were cleared promptly food. We didn’t have to go far and pudding was served with the VERDICT: to sniff out a suitable venue same level of quiet productivity. 10 Kate’s chocolate brownie was – right next door stood a A handy place to delicious – sweet and soft with pleasant-looking café, and eat before going the fact that a branch of it a blob of good-quality ice to the cinema had been established in Italy cream on top. But my cheesecake since 1870 convinced us to try it. suffered from a disappointing lack The eclectic decor of American of biscuit base.
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Info Box
Contact number: 2460 3505 Address: Shatti al-Qurm Opening hours: 7.30am – 12.30am Average price (for two people): RO11
www.porscheoman.com
Programmed for peace of mind. Explore our extensive range of pre-owned vehicles. Experience the many advantages of the Porsche Approved Pre-owned Car Programme. The full range of models bear the Porsche stamp of quality with a complete vehicle history. It doesn’t stop there. This unique programme also includes further benefits such as:
• A rigorous 111 point inspection in accordance with Porsche standards to assure you that your Porsche is prepared to the highest level. • Comprehensive 12 month Porsche Approved Warranty. • A warranty extendable up to a total of nine years. • Trade in your existing Porsche vehicle. Contact or visit Porsche Centre Oman to explore the full extent of the exclusive Porsche Approved Pre-owned Car Programme or visit our website: www.porscheoman.com.
Porsche Centre Oman SATA LLC Muscat, Telephone 2449 2544
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With panoramic views of Muscat, this rooftop lounge is the ideal place to chill out, says Jerzy Wierzbicki.
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ou’d expect passwords, secret keys and an extortionate entrance fee if we were in London, New York or Paris. But here in Muscat, a stylish rooftop lounge complete with pool and magnificent mountain views is easily accessible. Located on the top of the Park Inn by Radisson Muscat, this is
recipe
a cool place to unwind thanks to its laid-back vibe, decent decor comfortable sofas and hip music. Go in the evening and experience the cool sea breeze while indulging in one of the many interesting beverages. The service is particularly good for regulars like me, and the atmosphere is pretty mellow, but don’t expect the usual hijinks associated with poolside bars. Saying that, it’s usually busy on the weekends because of the panoramic views and DJ. Men have to pay an entry fee of OR5, which includes a drink. Women, however, get in for free The menu offers a fairly limited selection of tapas and appetisers, which is great if you just want a snack or VERDICT: an opportunity to dine light at sunset. 10 I think this is a great Amazing views, place to hang out. relaxed vibe and My only real criticism decent value for money is the fact that it’s only open during the cooler months.
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New Restaurant
Reviews Photographed by: Jerzy Wierzbicki
SAMA TERRAZZA
Trend
Info Box
Contact number: 24507888 Address: Park Inn By Radisson Muscat, al Khuwayr Al Janbuiyyah Opening hours: 6pm – 1am daily (except summer months) Average price (for one): RO10
Black Forest Butterfly Cakes Ingredients: 150g golden caster sugar 150g butter, softened 125g plain white flour 25g cocoa powder 1 tbsp baking powder 3 medium eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract 180g Dr. Oetker Easy Swirl Chocolate Flavour Cupcake Icing ingredients Shimmer spray (optional) Glacé cherries Method: Heat the oven to 180ºC, gas mark four. Place the sugar, butter, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, eggs and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Using an electric hand whisk beat for five minutes until light and fluffy. Sit paper muffin cases in a 12-hole muffin tin and divide the mixture between them. Bake for 15–20 minutes until firm. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool. With a small, serrated knife, carefully slice the top off each cake. Using the star nozzle, pipe a large swirl of chocolate flavour icing on to each cake. Cut each top in half and position the wings back in place. Sit a cherry in the centre of each cake then spray lightly with shimmer spray before serving.
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Photo: Waitrose
food and drink
Trend
New Restaurant
GALLERY
Stage Sweeties The Sultan School’s recent production of Willy Wonka - based on Roald Dahl’s children’s novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Pupils bring Roald Dahl’s story to the stage
Audiences enjoy the show
Children enjoy some treats Chocolate Factory owner – Willy Wonka
The Oompa Loompas
Wque The famous nis dolorep Oompa raturibus Loompas event in action eatque volum est accu cscptatem
Jennifer Demellweek, Head of Drama at The Sultan’s School
Graeme Garrett, Principal of The imporerunt Sultan’s School Otam qv am fugiass
Photographed by: Jerzy Wierzbicki
One of the winners of the Golden Ticket
Cupcakes galore! Eped molessi sunt et
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
Health
Beauty
fashion
Model wears suit from Next
MIXING PRINTS
Add some interest to your wardrobe by wearing two or three different prints in coordinating colours. We love the idea of pairing a striped shirt with this season’s floral suits.
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POWER PRINTS Add some attitude to your new season’s wardrobe with playful patterns and bold prints, says Penny Fray.
M&S Sunglasses, 9OR
Missoni dress, 345OR, Harvey Nichols, Dubai
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nspired by art, heritage and advances in digital printing, clashing prints continue to push fashion to the max in 2013, but this time the trend has an ethnic edge. Tribal, animal and Aztec influences are seen on everything from suit jackets to bangles. Moving on from last year’s brighter palette, 2013’s hottest colours are markedly more muted with organic browns, deep reds and light sand shades. To be bang on trend, try mixing patterns and textures. Wear floral with stripes or combine tapestry with tribal – just make sure that the colours are in a complimentary palette. If your fashion tastes are less fearless, mix statement trousers with a neutral T-shirt or simply opt for a bold bag. Here in Y Towers, we’re really into silk pants with hand painted designs. Be different by asking a local artist to create something special for you. Alternatively, try animal print but wear it with confidence and a neutral palette to keep it classy. I’m often spotted prowling around the office in my leopard print shirt from Jaeger. Even snakeskin has been given a sophisticated makeover this year, with reptilian prints dominating the catwalks of Versace and House of Holland, which is just as well since 2013 is the Chinese year of the snake. Think twice about wearing skinny snakeskin jeans, though. They’re either for the very brave or the very thin. A snakeskin-effect clutch is a much safer option if, like me, you are not blessed with Gisele’s legs. Alex Suh silk scarf 75OR from Boticca.com
Editor’s Pick A neutral T-shirt, like this one from Matalan, looks great with a pair of statement trousers.
Faux Snake Skin Clutch 25OR from What’s About Town
Monsoon hair accessories – from 2OR
Stella McCartney faux python clutch, 600OR, Harvey Nichols, Dubai
NOT SURE IF PRINTS SUIT YOU?
Follow Penny’s guide to pattern
1 Choose a pattern that works with your personal aesthetic. Nor everyone could or should wear a loud, statement print. 2 There’s no need to wear prints from head to toe – try a bold accessory instead. 3 Wear clothing in coordinating colours to create cohesion. There’s a narrow line between being fashion forward and completely dishevelled.
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
Health
Fashion
BEAUTY
STREET STYLE There’s also a Lyric for men, which artfully combines the warm masculinity of woods, ginger and frankincense with the additional notes of saffron, orange blossom, nutmeg and rose.
TRIED & TESTED
Penny Fray gives her verdict on the new special edition of Lyric Woman from the House of Amouage.
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ome scents come and go, but others capture a moment and manage to stay around forever. Lyric, from the luxurious House of Amouage, is definitely a classic in the making. Pushing the boundaries of conventional rose scents, it’s both sophisticated and striking. Floral and feminine with hidden depths, Lyric is an interesting perfume to wear. Its complex floral structure of smoky rose, geranium, jasmine and orris with top notes of cinnamon, cardamom and ginger, gives it a refined, yet edgy, fragrance. What I particularly love, though, are the base notes of wood and frankincense, which add warmth and gravity to the perfume. 034
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Name: Ahlam al Habsi Occupation: Assistant Store Manager, Victoria’s Secret Wearing: T-Shirt, longsleeved black top and trousers from Stradivarius, and shoes from H&M Spotted at: Muscat City Centre mall
Now, it is at this the sensuality of the point I should rose. By the middle of confess a liking What I particularly the day I was hooked, for dramatic and kept sniffing my love are the base perfumes. And wrist for an aromatic notes of wood this fragrance hit. The rich, spicy has all the mixed with the and frankincense, notes maturity of a hazy floral aromas which add warmth made me think of seasoned actress on the beauty eating chocolate in and gravity to stage, boasting a a garden. the perfume confidence that If you’re thinking lets it outshine of investing, now’s its younger and more ‘showy’ the time: House of Amouage has counterparts. However, it does take just released a special edition bottle a while to get into its stride. When of Lyric Woman. Housed in a I first spritzed Lyric on my wrist, I lacquered box with a Damascene wasn’t too keen on the scent. It smelt Rose motif, the packaging oozes strange and spicy. A few minutes extravagance, and the luxury later, however, I started to appreciate continues inside with a deep red
bottle adorned with Swarovski crystals and a gold-plated cap. It’s amazing but a little ostentatious for my minimalist aesthetic. All in all though, I love this perfume. It’s a more sophisticated version of my favourite scent – Rose en Noir by Miller & Harris – and the ultra-posh packaging makes it an ideal gift for someone who likes the finer things in life.
Info Box
Stockists: Lyric is sold exclusively at Amouage shops, which are housed at Sabco Centre, Muscat City Centre, the Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton Hotel and Muscat International Centre. Retail price for 100ml: RO165
p r o m o t i o n
SHOP
of the week
Season promotion offering shoppers discounts of up to 50% while stocks last.
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hen it comes to one stop shopping. REDTAG should be on every retail fiend’s radar. Why? Well, it offers everything from fashion to homeware at bargain-licious prices. Focusing on shopper satisfaction, quality goods and convenience, this amazing store has understandably become incredibly popular with budget conscious families. Offering the latest in fashion and accessories for men, women and children, alongside a comprehensive range of home items and toys, REDTAG has embraced a winning business formula. The store has just started its end of season promotion offering shoppers discounts of up to 50% while stocks last. The discount is available in all the outlets; Al Khuwair, Markaz Al Bahja & Sohar. So don’t miss out on the chance to bag a bargain. For more information, visit http://www.redtag.ae
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HEALTH& BEAUTY
Here’s
New year’s weight loss scheme already fallen by the wayside? No time for a complete body overhaul? Here’s the greedy person’s guide to losing weight. By Penny Fray.
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uess what? The body is designed to process stuff called ‘food’. Not a diet of Coke Lite and cigarettes. Which may be why your last few attempts at losing weight haven’t quite worked out – especially after the recent indulgences of Eid and Christmas. Eating healthily and exercising more may be the ideal way to lose weight but it can be a little boring and, let’s face it, s-lo-w. And if you’re anything like me, you find the whole idea of calorie counting a crime against numbers. Rather than relying on gargantuan willpower or a whole heap of cash to fit into those skinny jeans, here are five ways to nudge yourself thinner in 2013.
in Qurum. “The vacuum therapy boosts circulation and metabolism, while exercise and diet burns fat. The relatively new Hypoxi method “Clients are asked to commit to at combines exercise, alternating pressure least three 30- to 50-minute activity levels and nutritional advice to help sessions a week, and are asked to avoid shape your body more quickly. carbohydrates after every session. But “The method works by combining depending on an individual’s needs, a three simple processes,” says Anna meal plan can also be added. Vuorinen, manager of Finnesse Health “Of course, there’s no such thing as
Make The Most of Your Body
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Fashion
Beauty
Health
the PLAN Go Green We all know that green tea helps break down fat in the body, but if you hate the bitter taste and want better results try kukicha tea instead. Nutritionists say it not only facilitates weight loss but, regulates blood sugar and boosts the immune system to boot.
Grab a Grapefruit Really. Researchers have found that people who include grapefruit in their diet, lose weight faster. Something to do with the digestive enzymes found in the fruit.
The Four Minute Work Out Forget about spending hours in the gym. The LWR Fast Fat Burning Method from celebrity trainer Lucy Wyndham-Read is all about doing short bursts of exercise as hard as you can. It can help you lose up to 7lbs in a fortnight and is available from iTunes. miraculous weight loss, but you have to start somewhere – even if you just swap one glass of juice a day for a glass of water.”
Use Psychology We’re all vulnerable to that overwhelming urge to wolf down a whole bar of chocolate after a stressful day. When your willpower runs out, it’s good to have a backup plan in the form of the ‘if then’ technique. It’s simple, and according to research, an effective way of training your brain to stick to goals. So, instead of saying to yourself, “I’m not going to eat chocolate,” think: If I get a craving for something sweet, then I’ll eat a banana.”
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CARS AND OUTDOORS
Destination
Wadi Tanuf
Meander through the ruins of a centuriesold village and soak up the rich history all around for a great family day-trip Words and photos: Jerzy Wierzbicki
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THINGS NEEDED You do not need a 4x4, as there is a Tarmac road in good condition.
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or lovers of history and Omani heritage, the Ad Dakhiliyah region is a must-visit place. Nizwa, which can boast a significant role in the ancestry of the area, is one of the oldest cities in Oman and close to the location of our destination. Wadi Tanuf can be found a short drive from Nizwa, cutting through the distinctive landscape. At the foot of Jabal al Akhdar, the crumbling ruins of Old Tanuf, next to the long and wide wadi of the same name, are difficult to miss. The village was once an important part of the region – the
first signs of human existence here date back to the pre-Islamic period. Today, ruins of mud-brick houses are a reminder of its dramatic past. Bombs from the British Air Force destroyed Tanuf in the mid 1950s, during a historical uprising crushed by the Sultan of Muscat. The villagers fled to the nearby mountain for safety, abandoning their homes and lives. The ruins are located just behind a vast valley of narrow and sloping rocks. At this time of year, the mild winter weather offers great conditions to explore the local mountains, wadis and old places, such as Tanuf village.
I was there a few weeks ago at the weekend with a plan to take some nice shots of the decayed remnants of the village. I have been photographing archaeological sites for many years, and I know that mud-brick constructions are not easy to capture due to their irregular shape and dilapidated state. It’s always a challenge to get a decent shot. I reached Old Tanuf at noon. The light wasn’t perfect, but the winter season gave it a good softness and a nice coloured sky. I installed my camera on the small tripod along with a very wideangle lens, but not a fish eye this
time. (Fish eye is an ultra-wide lens that produces a strong visual distortion intended to create a wide panoramic or hemispherical image.) I moved into the village between the disintegrating walls and started capturing the old houses. It reminded me of the old times when I used to work as a photographer on archeological excavations in Syria and Iraq. Mud-brick constructions have one particular feature: only an expert can say from which period and how old the ruins are. I jumped up on to the top of a big wall and took some pictures of the overview of the entire village. From this viewpoint, JAN 2 – JAN 8 / ISSUE 251
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CARS AND OUTDOORS the old village had the feel of an old Ashur city in Northern Iraq or the ancient city of Mari in Syria; both cities are thousands of years old. The houses in Old Tanuf have a lot of small windows and small doors, and the walls are built from very solid mud bricks. Big, thick walls provided shade, which was vital during the suffocating heat of summer. I remember during an extremely hot day in northern Syria we were invited by a Kurdish
My Hood family to their small mud-brick home. They did not have airconditioning, but inside the house was pleasantly cool, when outside was a scorching 50c. In the centre of Old Tanuf you can find the remains a big building with a skeleton of the tower still intact. Behind it is a nice view of the mountains, and it’s a perfect spot to take in a general view of the area. After visiting the ruins of Tanuf
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we headed into the valley, where there was an old falaj with water. Tanuf is well known not only for its historical background, but also as the source of an excellent mineral water that can be bought bottled all over Muscat. Wadi Tanuf is a great spot for a family day out. Take a picnic and then wander at leisure through the ruins of the old village with the dark rocky outcrops as a stunning backdrop.
the old village had the feel of an old Ashur city in Northern Iraq or the ancient city of Mari in Syria
HOW TO GET THERE
From Muscat, drive to Nizwa. Pass Nizwa and go to Hamra. Around 20km behind Nizwa is village called Tanuf. Follow the brown road signs.
DISTANCE
travel guide
Around 150km from Muscat
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Just 20km from Nizwa
GPS Coordinates: Location of Tanuf Village: N23’03’8” E57’28’8” JAN 2 – JAN 8 / ISSUE 251
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IN THE SWING Getting a grip on golf, the in-vogue sport in Oman, is like a walk in the park, discovers Kate Ginn
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uring the milder the popular Muscat Hills Golf & months, it’s all about Country Club. being outdoors and Muscat Hills was one of the making the most of the pioneers of golfing in Oman, and it cool days and balmy evenings. now boasts a strong membership of Some seek out thrills and highmore than 270 players, as well as a adrenaline pursuits, but for those well-attended junior programme. who prefer a more sedate pace, the Its stunning location on the sport of golf has much to offer. outskirts of the city between the For a start, there’s no running mountains and the sea is well worth involved, which is a big plus the trip alone, especially for the for anyone with an aversion to spectacular sunsets that streak the anything more taxing than a fast sky a deep red. walking stride. There is much debate on the What could be a more pleasant origins of golf, with historical pastime than strolling along records showing a golf-like game manicured lawns being played in the of grass with in 1297 Golf is a wonderful Netherlands the sun lightly with a stick and way to spend a warming your leather ball, and back in the of China couple of hours, accounts company of likebeing in on the regardless of your act since the minded people? There’s even ability, and I can Southern Tang sand around Dynasty (937-975). thoroughly vouch in the form of However, it’s bunkers to keep generally accepted for its charms. beach lovers that modern golf happy. A word of warning, though: evolved in Scotland during the attempting a spot of sunbathing in Middle Ages. these would likely end in a nasty These days, the club and golf ball-related injury. golf ball used have improved Golf is a relatively new sport considerably since the olden days, in Oman, but has seen a rapid but the basic premise remains take-up recently. The country now the same – it still comes down to boast three courses – including getting a small ball into a small hole
with a stick in the least number of any of us made any shots of note, shots possible. but as darkness fell the mosquitos For those who just want to dip were having a field day and scoring their golfing toe into the Omani hits with ease. scene, Muscat Hills offers free The next step in my golfing one-hour introductory lessons from career will be to try out the Head Pro Alex Day, who will be Discover Golf programme for joined by two new pros this month. ladies at Muscat Hills. An eightY popped down last week to week course, it starts in the give it a go, joined by three jolly second week of this month and German tourists. costs 95OR, which includes all Alex, an affable professional golfing equipment. from the north of England, started If I’m still smitten after that, us in gently with a tour of the first there’s an eight-week enhancement two holes on a golf buggy. In the course that I can use to refine my fading early evening light, the 18newly found skills. hole, par 72, course looked at its Private lessons are also available most beguiling. for absolute beginners and for the Tour over, Alex gave us a guide more advanced. to the basics: how to grip the club, Golf is a wonderful way to spend how to stand and address the ball, a couple of hours, regardless of club selection and aiming shots. your ability, and I can thoroughly Our foursome were then let loose vouch for its charms. on the floodlit driving range armed Just remember to pack your with a seven iron and instructions mosquito spray. to attempt a quarter backswing, with the A free introductory one-hour session aim of trying to propel with Alex Day is available every the ball forward a short Wednesday at 5.30pm. Everyone is distance. Alex kept welcome, but booking is necessary. Contact alex@muscatgolf.com an eye on our swing Green Fees are OR45 for adult, OR20 for and stance, correcting juniors for 18 holes midweek, and OR55/ errors with a smile OR30 on weekends. and banter to keep the For membership details and more mood light. information, visit www.muscathills.com I’m not sure whether JAN 2 – JAN 8 / ISSUE 251
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CARS AND OUTDOORS Al Noor Plaza is the perfect place for coffee and meeting up with pals
The LowDown
EXPLORING
Better known by its abbreviated name of MQ , this leafy district of Muscat is popular with European expats – the British in particular, the diplomatic corps and yummy mummies with designer-clad kids.
This family-friendly suburb comes with a wealth of conveniences, discovers Penny Fray.
MADINAT AL SULTAN QABOOS The Good, The Bad & The Ugly This is a place for ladies who lunch and prowling parents with prams, so expect plenty of chic little cafés, play areas and kiddie shops. But remember – where there are children, there are schools, so battling with 4x4s during drop-off times can be more than a little frustrating.
Living There This is expat central, and, as such, is highly sought after by Western workers with families. Plus, the renowned British School Muscat is popular with those who value ‘education, education, education’. Accommodation is mostly plush, with pools, gardens and other family-friendly amenities, but it’s a little on the expensive side due to its reputation for being a great place to live. Until the growth of Shatti Al Qurum in the 1990s, MQ was the most costly residential area in Muscat. 042
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Cars Why I Live Here: “MQ is full of greenery and its central location means that I can get to most places fairly quickly. It’s also convenient because it has everything from dry cleaners to supermarkets. Plus, there are plenty of walkways and places to take the children and dogs.” Said Nadim Attieh.
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Places of Interest Despite being a predominately residential area, you’ll find a couple of cultural gems in MQ , including the Omani Museum. This interesting stop-off showcases ancient, historic artefacts and information about the evolution of Oman. For art exhibitions, special events and unique creative buys, try the Al Madina Gallery.
Hang Outs There are several handy hangouts located in the main shopping centre, including Starbucks, a Mexican restaurant called Pavo Real and KFC. Costa Coffee and D’Arcy’s Kitchen both remain popular with ladies of leisure, while Kargreen Caffe is a quirky place that offers everything from hearty soups to Arabic appetisers. Popular shisha cafés include Kargreens and Ziyara. The nearby beach, however, remains one of the most popular places to chill out and socialise.
COMMUNITY WORK Shopping Whatever you need, you’ll find it here: whether you’re looking for a large Al Fair supermarket or small specialist boutiques. The destination store du jour here, however, is Centrepoint – a two-floor department store that sells everything from fashion to furniture. There’s also a Khimji’s and Tavola here.
In the heart of MQ you’ll find angels of mercy – well, sort of. Dar Al Atta’a is a charitable organisation that caters to the Sultanate’s underprivileged. Helping empower people through food, better living conditions and education, the organisation is a real community endeavor with fundraising events galore.
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BOOKWORM
With more than 25 million e-readers sold in 2012, it looks like the novel is back in vogue. But with a mountain of models hitting the market, how do you choose? Here are Penny Fray’s top picks:
THE TECH IN YOU
KOBO EREADER TOUCH RO68
This stylish and easy to use reader accesses more than one million free e-books. What it lacks in gimmicks, it more than makes up for in substance - best for bibliophiles.
KINDLE COVER RO15
These days, it’s less about the statement clutch and more about the design of your Kindle or Kobo cover. We love these bespoke book coats from Letterfest.com.
AMAZON KINDLE FIRE RO99
Powerful and portable, this much-hyped device not only showcases the best books and magazines in stunning colour, it also lets you watch movies, play games and work on the move with wi-fi.
MUST BUYS
Fancy playing soldier? Powered by night vision technology, these HM Armed Forces Night Vision Binoculars are the real deal. Invisible infrared illumination and sensitive optics allow you to see in the dark. With two viewing models for short- and longrange vision, you won’t want to wait for nightfall. RO45 from the web-shop GettingPersonal
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Remember your New Year’s resolution? We might all start out with the best of intentions, but it usually takes just one bowl of boring salad to persuade us that a life of hedonism is actually better. Stay on track with this Basis band – a health monitor with a difference. It analyses your heart rate and sweat levels, giving you an accurate picture of your health. Available for RO77 from Basis.com
FIND OUT WHAT’S HIP & HAPPENING IN GADGETS BRAVE NEW PHONE WORLD
Imagine a phone like no other: ultra thin and almost indestructible. You can roll it, drop it and scrunch it like paper. Welcome to the brave new world of the mobile phone. Gadget shows have already been awash with prototypes and rumours abound that we could see the launch of the first bendy phone in 2013.
MELLOW & YELLOW RO30 Bright, funky and incredibly fashion forward – we dig these Urban Ears, from Harvey Nichols, Dubai.
NEW! NINTENDO Wii U This video game console is Wii’s smarter successor and is the first Nintendo console to support high definition graphics. Its near field communication chip allows users to import content from
supported devices. It also allows wireless transactions using approved credit cards. Similar to the Sony PlayStation network, the unified network structure supports multi-play, video chatting and digital downloads.
THE GIRLY GADGET RO27 from Red Candy.
This funky rubber coated radio from Lexon is the ideal bath time accessory, because it’s both splash proof and shock resistant. Plus, it has extra kudos for being on permanent display at the MoMA collection in New York
Games can be accessed any time through your personal computer or mobile phone, thanks to the Miiverse system. The Wii U also lets you browse the web on the game pad or television.
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CARS AND OUTDOORS
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The Passat was named the best midsized sedan at the Middle East Motor Awards 2012.
VOLKSWAGEN’S NEW PASSAT Available with a 2.5 litre, 170hp five-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic gearbox, the new Passat range includes 16, 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels and electric seat adjustment.
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Car of the week
Volkswagen’s new Passat commands more than just the road, discovers Penny Fray.
Perfect for a VIP (or five) the Passat has lots to offer from heated front seats to the latest technology. It’s also been praised for its legroom space. Other featuresof the S Passat includes:
170 hp, five-cylinder engine • 2.5-litre, Multi-function steering wheel and trip • computer with audio streaming • Bluetooth® side mirrors with • Power-operated integrated turn signals Automatic headlights with coming leaving • home feature airbags • Six with MP3- and • Six speaker sound system in-dash CD player, WMA-compatible AM/FM radio, and AUX-in for portable
audio players Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
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tylish, spacious and good to drive, there’s a great deal of excitement brewing about the launch of the new Passat in the Sultanate. And no wonder – this premier example of German engineering redefines the benchmark in innovative technology, stylish design and affordable luxury. Competitively priced, this sedan offers so much space, economy and efficiency that it’s likely to get snapped up quickly by a sensible brigade of drivers. Available with a 2.5 litre, 170hp fivecylinder engine and a six-speed automatic gearbox, the new Passat range includes 16, 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels, electric seat adjustment, leather seats, a Fender sound system, radio-navigation system, front fog lights with static cornering lights, automatic climate control, ambiance lighting and keyless access engine starting and system. An updated exterior belies the fact that
the new Passat is the largest ever, measuring 4.868m in length. Drivers can expect clear, minimal forms and lines with a predominance of horizontal body elements, reflecting Volkswagen’s unique design policy. With a longer body, wider stance and extended wheelbase this car offers an impressive amount of interior room. Rear occupants in particular will enjoy an increase in seating space and the car’s boot offers a 529-litre cargo capacity. The use of Volkswagen’s 2.5-litre MPI five-cylinder engine in the Passat is also a first. Developing 170hp at 5,700rpm and paired with a six-speed automatic tiptronic gearbox, the innovative German-developed engine strikes a sporting balance between power and efficiency, using just 7.4 litres of fuel per 100km in the extra urban cycle, and is capable of reaching 100km/hr from rest in nine seconds.