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Your top guide to the best of oman, everY week

THE BIG EASY

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JAN 30 – FEB 05 • ISSUE 305 • WEEKLY

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Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing &

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We’d love to hear your news and views. For editorial

enquiries, please email info@y-oman.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

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

EDITOR IN CHIEFSayyida Iman bint Hamad

bin Hamood Al Busaidi

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Eihab Abutaha

MANAGING EDITORPenny Fray

SECTIONS EDITORKate Ginn

CONTRIBUTORTom Robertson

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki

ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Feroz Khan

Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman.

@ytabloid facebook.com/ytabloid www.y-oman.comfO l l O w u S O N :

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fast forwardhis month, Y magazine turned six (I know, I can hardly believe it either!). Which means that since the olden days of 2008, we’ve had the awesome job of curating inspiring ideas on what to do, where to go and what to buy here in Oman – not to

mention campaigning on important social issues and investigating hard-hitting stories. Of course, I’ve only been sitting in the editor’s seat for just over a year now, but during

that time I’ve had the privilege to see the Sultanate take great strides towards becoming a progressive country, playing a dynamic and important role on the world stage.

During every milestone in the last six years, Y has been with you every step of the way and we’re proud to play our part in the development of this amazing country.

I hope you’ll continue with us on this journey of discovery. There are some great things ahead and we’ll be there to document them for you.

In the meantime, I’d like to say a big thanks to you, our readers, ambassadors and commercial clients for all the support you’ve given us – but also to my small but dedicated team who work round the clock to make it happen. I salute you.

Penny Fray MANAGING EDITOR

editor@y-oman.com

T

Team Y has been celebrating its sixth birthday, meeting readers

and wishing Aussies a happy national day.

THIS wEEK…

Competition

GOING DOWNWAVES

Argh! Poker straight hair is back in vogue, which means it’s time to dust off the ghd and stay

out of the sun.

GOING UPTWEETUPS

We had a brilliant birthday bash at the Grand Hyatt Muscat on

Sunday evening. There were cakes, canapés, and even a camel. See all the action on our gallery page. In the meantime, we’d like to say a

big shukran to our hosts the Grand Hyatt Muscat and our prize givers BreadTalk, Khimji’s Watches and Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club

for their support.

tRenD BARometeR

WINThose lovely people at Khimji’s Watches and InterContinental

Muscat are offering you some super prizes to help celebrate our birthday. Get a chance to win by tweeting us

at @ytabloid #YBIRTHDAY before Feb 6, 2013. Alternatively,

‘like’ our competition post on facebook.com/ytabloid

02-03 Y ISSUE 305_editors note_ad TR.indd 3 1/28/14 8:01 PM

contentsj a n u a r y 3 0 2 0 1 4

16Yo u r O m a n06 The Big Interview Mark Edleson

08 Your Oman Yummy Mummy

10 News

Nizwa Mall

16 Gallery

Birthday Bash

Fo o d & D r i n k28 Food Pill Popping

30 Review Scottish Grub

T h i s We e k18 Movie Listings Shadow Recruit

19 Oman In 43 Objects

Al Fahal Island

20 This Week Crafty In Oman

C a r s & O u t d o o r37 Destination

Wonder Woods

40 Indoors Personal Training

42 Postcard From New York City

44 Y-Fi Phablets

46 Car Of The Week

Magical Mercedes

20

30

F e aT u r e s22 Infographic Y Is 6

23 Competition Are You A Winner?

24 Behind The Scenes 'Meet Team Y'

25 Karting 24 Hour Racing

H e a l t h & B e a u t y32 Fashion The Big Easy

34 Fitness Bollywood Burn

35 Style Counsel Be A Budgetista

FIT FOR GOLF / COOL KERALA / ESSENTIAL VIEWING / ABAYA VOGUE / RIAL SAVING DISCOUNTS

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

40

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44

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Enjoy 200 hours of calls for just RO 10 with the new Shahry Sawalif postpaid planEach Nawras to Nawras call can last up to 1 hour, so don’t text it, talk it. After 200 calls, regular rate of 79 Baiza per call applies. Calls to other networks will be charged at the rate of 39 Baiza per minute. To subscribe, dial *141*212#Know more by visiting nawras.om/Shahry

For calls that go on and on…

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YOUR OMAN

Run through your career in 60 seconds or less:After nearly ten years with Citibank in the Philippines, Colombia and Indonesia, I resigned in 1983 and started a corporate financial advisory business in Jakarta. I went on to advise on the creation of five Aman Resorts in Indonesia.

I then created two joint ventures with Indonesian partners; one to develop hotels and another to manage hotels with GHM Hotels and grow the brand in Indonesia. At the same time, in 1996 with a partner from the USA, we started Mandara Spa in Bali and grew it in to the largest luxury operator of hotel spas in the world by the time we sold it in 2001. We also dissolved our partnership with GHM and, with our Indonesian partners, created Alila Hotels and Resorts. In 2004, we moved the head office to Singapore to begin our regional expansion.You used to be in banking – you were vice president of Citibank – why did you decide to change careers and move into the hospitality industry?During the last five of the 10 years with Citibank, my largest client was the recently created Aman Resorts chain of hotels. After the first Amanpuri resort in Phuket, Thailand, I advised on the creation of the next properties in Indonesia. I was having so much fun in hospitality, I went full-time into the business. It was a natural fit, as it combined my love of travel, nature and culture.It’s been 13 years since you founded Alila Hotels and Resorts, what have been the biggest changes in the travel/hospitality industry over that time? The biggest change to the industry would have to be the gradual acceptance of, and support for, the eco-sustainability efforts of hotels around the world. Like all industries, the recognition of the need for sustainable practices is slowly gathering recognition. The other major change in the customer base is the rapid growth of the Asian traveller.Oman is hoping to position itself as a key

player in the travel market. It faces the challenge of being popular, without losing its unique appeal of undisturbed beauty. How do you think it can achieve this?We are focused on Asia, from China in East Asia through Southeast Asia and South Asia to West Asia (also known as the Middle East). We know these regions and can service them without too much jet lag from Singapore. By focusing on these areas we can get to know them better and ensure that our properties exhibit unique cultures and natural beauty. We make it a priority to engage with the local communities, respecting their traditions, and actively seeking ways for our guests to interact in meaningful ways with the destination. We firmly believe that the physical and cultural sustainability of the local environment is fundamental to the sustainable success of our properties. The government must continue to be selective in its approval of hospitality projects and control densities. We’re super excited about the opening of your Jabal Akhdar Hotel in the first quarter of this year. What can we expect?Jabal Akhdar, meaning ‘The Green Mountain’ in Arabic, is part of the Al Hajar mountain range, one of Oman’s most spectacular areas. Set 2,000 metres above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar will provide access to this magnificent landscape of untouched beauty. Overlooking a dramatic gorge and with views of the Al Hajar Mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar is perfectly positioned to explore the region’s renowned rugged landscapes, a haven for adventure travellers, nature lovers and those seeking an escape from the desert heat. Committed to an eco-friendly future, the resort is designed to respect the environment and fit harmoniously into the site, preserving the natural beauty of

the region.Do you have plans for more

hotels in Oman in the future and, if so, where?We continue to scout for projects in the GCC. Prior to the global financial crisis in 2008, we had several projects in Dubai and Oman that were

under development. Unfortunately, they were stopped at the time and have not been resurrected since. It is beneficial to both Alila and the properties if we can cluster our resorts in a country or region to benefit from economies of scale in management. We are already working on another project in Oman and in talks on another. We have recently hired a regional vice president for South Asia and the Middle East, based in New Delhi, to strengthen our development efforts in the region.What’s the future for Alila and for you? Where do you see yourself in 10 years time, for instance?We expect Alila to continue its regional development strategy but at a slightly quicker pace while maintaining our selectivity of sites. We continue to expand our global distribution to better serve our properties. As for myself, in ten years time, I hope to have maintained my health and an active life.Tell us your favourite holiday destination in the world and why it’s so great?My biased answer is that my favoured holiday destination is still Bali, an island in Indonesia. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and the continuation of strong cultures, which blends harmoniously with contemporary lifestyles. I have had a house there for 30 years and find that the cultural traditions continue to dazzle, and the natural setting of the rivers, volcanoes and terraced rice fields provide a background that continues to soothe.Describe your personality in three words?Driven, curious and relaxed.We hear that you’re quite an action man outside of work. Tell us about your passions and how you relax.I love to take walks and experience nature, and meet people of varied cultures and backgrounds. I ski, sail, dive and hike for more strenuous pleasure.

M A R K E D L E S O N , P R E S I D E N T A N D F O U N D E R O F A L I L A H O T E L S A N D R E S O R T S

N e w s G a l l e r y I N T E R V I E W

WELL TRAVELLED

Mark’s top tip for holiday

heaven:for the perfect holiday, relax

in a natural setting with family or friends.

506-07 Y-ISSUE 305 TR_Your oman_Ad.indd 6 1/28/14 6:00 PM

Enjoy 200 hours of calls for just RO 10 with the new Shahry Sawalif postpaid planEach Nawras to Nawras call can last up to 1 hour, so don’t text it, talk it. After 200 calls, regular rate of 79 Baiza per call applies. Calls to other networks will be charged at the rate of 39 Baiza per minute. To subscribe, dial *141*212#Know more by visiting nawras.om/Shahry

For calls that go on and on…

SAWALIF-YWeekly-24x34-E.indd 1 1/27/14 12:47 PM06-07 Y-ISSUE 305 TR_Your oman_Ad.indd 7 1/28/14 6:00 PM

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Dear Y,

The article ‘Driven Round the Bend’ (Issue No 304) about dangerous driving on Oman’s roads was very thought provoking. An example of such carelessness was shown again on the fateful Wednesday morning last week (22 Jan) when innocent children were snatched away in a matter of seconds (in a bus crash). Unfortunately, lessons are not learnt from such costly incidents and are forgotten easily. Speed is the enemy and this appears to be a habit for most of our young drivers. They don’t realise that it’s a thrill, which comes at a cost. As you pointed out, any amount of warning signals and efforts from the ROP

advising people to take extreme care on the roads will only hold good if the attitude of the drivers change from within.

Regards

Sridhar Krishnan,Muttrah, Muscat

TRAGEDY OF BUS CRASH

correspondence

Every time I hear of a child getting hurt, my heart aches. Last week, a 14-year-old

tragically died in a bike accident on Bawshar sand dunes in the evening of the same day that the school bus crash happened, killing three pupils. Those who died are the innocent victims. I have been supporting road safety campaigns ever since I graduated from university but I now see that most are useless until the law intervenes. So this week, I am using this space to call out to every responsible person to take action for a better and safer future. Oman’s media have been doing their part on the road safety issue and local campaigns do tremendous work trying to make a difference. But what’s the point if we don’t FIRST change who we are? How many of you text/tweet/Instagram while driving?  How many of you don’t speak out when your neighbour drives with a kid on their lap? If you are reading this, know that you are now responsible to make changes within your own community. Principals and teachers, ensure that you have seatbelts in your buses. Parents, be role models to your kids. Students, tell your teacher and principal you need seatbelts in the school bus. Start making a difference. It’s time for a radical change and you can get the ball rolling in your community. Looking for ideas how? Get in touch and I can provide you with a plan. A safer today, is a safer place for our children tomorrow.  Our thoughts and prayers, and sincere condolences go to the families of Sayyid Fahad, Awais Nazir and Fareeha Parvez.

The Voice of oman Karima farid on why we all need to think safe on the roads

Next week: tHe RetURN OF ALI AL BALUSHI

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

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

Dinner for twoat Tomato

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/InterContinentalMuscat

Dear Y,

BEST WISHES TO YOU ON YOUR 6TH BIRTHDAY.I am a crazy reader and multi-user of Y. I’m a crazy reader because I’m always eager to grab my weekly copy and I love reading every bit of it.

I am mad about its unique size, high quality printing, current affairs content, knowledge and info on Oman and many other topics from different walks of life.

I’m a ‘multi-user’ because the significance of Y for me goes beyond reading.

Its colourful stripes are used for paper quilling and the dashing colour shades are used for punch craft.

Its pages are useful for making pinwheels for teaching craft to tiny tots.

Its glossy, radiant pictures are a handy source for making projects for teens.

It serves as a fancy and strong book cover, among its many uses.

So truly, Y is not only the Pulse of Oman but also the heart of my creativity.

Best wishes

Nipa Shah, Rex Road, Muscat.

Y BIRTHDAY WISHES

WINNER! Reply of

the WeekTW

ITTE

R

08-09 Y ISSUE 305_correspondence TR.indd 8 1/28/14 6:01 PM

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We asked: ‘The Muscat Festival starts this week. What type of event would you like to see held in Oman?’

ZAHID SAeeD GULLI would like to see kites flying in the air that depict national flags to signify the beauty of friendship in this festival. There could also be balloons of peace and friendship with multi-coloured messages of love for all.

RONAk BHAtt Olympics! Or the Cricket World Cup. Isn’t it an exciting thought in itself ?

Reem eLkASHLAN I wish to see more music concerts for Arab singers as they used to do before.

tRAcey keNNettFormula One.

RAkeSH PINtO An activity or game for small children, where expatriates and locals can come together. This can be in both English and Arabic. It would be so nice to pass on a message to growing children about coming together and sharing the brotherhood/sisterhood between different nationalities.

SHeRRIN FINOj I would like to see an event like the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) here in Muscat. It would be really awesome.

AmBIkA kISHeN A food festival.

jULFIkUR RAHmAN A horticulture show, canine show and auto/bike show.

kIARA PeReIRA A fireworks competition similar to the one we saw a few years ago, in which 6-8 countries took part. We could make it an annual event.

SUDHeeSH PAL A dance festival, which covers different types of dances from all over the world.

mARyAm HUSSAIN I would like One Direction to stage a concert at the Muscat Festival, as I LOVE the band!

kAmRAN ZAHID A camel race.

kHUSHBOO UDeSHI I would want to see something like a puppet

DEBATE OF THE WEEk

L E T T E R S E - M A I L S F A C E B O O K T W I T T E RYOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US

show. It was a great hit in the early days. Now it’s a lost art. Or they could add an attraction like a hot air balloon. I haven’t seen it here.

VARSHA D kHONAI would like to see a show, which gives good safety tips for everyday life. It could give tips on things like safe driving, as well as other things like how to save water and electricity. It could all be shown a drama.

SHyAm kALADI Magic.

RIVANA cHOwDHURy Some thrilling entertainment, like having a yacht or boat race among Omanis. Also, I’d like to see a celebration of music with a festival showing different famous bands.

PRAtIBHA mISHRA Theme painting on topics like drive slow drive safe, save energy, climate change, global warming, deserts and desertification.

I'm a reader

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

H I m e e Ta S U d H I r , was spotted with a copy of Y Magazine in Rustaq Fort

This Week’s debate:

Y has just had its 6th

birthday. What would be your

dream birthday celebrations, if money and

time were no object?

08-09 Y ISSUE 305_correspondence TR.indd 9 1/28/14 6:01 PM

J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 50 1 0

FESTIVAL FUN

HORSE PLAY

N E W SYOUR OMAN

It’s been a long time coming but work has

finally started on Nizwa Grand Mall.

The foundation stone was laid this week for the project, which will include a shopping centre, children’s play area and restaurants spread over 37,000 square metres with 1,200 parking spaces. It should be ready to open by the end of next year.

A week in and the Muscat Festival is drawing crowds with its mix of cultural, sporting and fun

entertainment for all the family.The festival, which runs until Feb

22, also includes the Tour of Oman cycle race which begins on Feb 18.

Organisers are confident of record-breaking visitor numbers of more than two million.

GRAND IDEAS

G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w

For the first time, Muscat Festival events are also being held on Seeb Beach with

soccer, equestrian and dance shows, and boat races.

Horsemanship was on display this week with tent pegging races on the sand. (Photo credit: ONA)

Most of us have one and would probably

admit that we couldn’t do without it on a day-to-day basis.

Now the smartphone is to be celebrated with its own festival dedicated to the expanding market.

Nawras is running the

event for 90 days from January 28th with its stores and retailers getting in on the act.

Themed under the name ‘Welcome to a Smarter World’, the festival will offer

promotions and special offers to customers, along with the latest hot smartphone innovations.

Oman has one of the fastest growing smartphone sectors in the GCC with 65 per cent of mobile users switching to newer devices.

Oman’s first smartphone festival

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G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w N E W SYOUR OMAN

G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w N E W S

WHALE OF A TIMEIt was an operation worthy of

a film along the lines of Free Willy, the one about a captive

killer whale released into the wild.This time, however, the action

was real, and took place off the beach at Shatti al Qurum at the weekend.

And rather than starring an orca, or killer whale, this drama involved a smaller grey whale.

It all began when beach-goers spotted the mammal swimming slowly in shallow waters close to the shore. Witnesses raised the alarm and a rescue effort quickly swung into action.

First a police boat had a go. It tailed the mammal for about 40 minutes in a bid to ‘herd’ it back out to sea.

When this failed and the whale moved closer in, another attempt launched with tourists wading into the water to direct it away from the beach.

Onlookers said that at one time ropes were used to try to harness the marine creature, which was about five metres in length, to ‘tow’ it back out into deeper water.

Eventually, the experts arrived in the shape of marine scientist, Elayne Looker, and her team from Five Oceans Environmental

Services in Muscat.“The whale was swimming

very slowly along the shore and had apparently ‘stranded’ several times,” said Elayne.

“We couldn’t see any reason why. It wasn’t normal behaviour for a whale so it could have been sick or felt threatened by a predator. It may also have become disorientated.

“It’s a rare occurrence but it is not unique as these type of whales have been seen before.”

The wet-suited team stayed in the water, taking it in shifts, until 11.15pm when the whale, believed

to be a Cuvier’s beaked whale, suddenly swam off into the night.

Whether there’s a happy ending remains unknown so far.

“We went back out in the morning with two boats but there was no sign of it,” says Elayne.

“I’m on standby in case there’s a sighting. Hopefully, it’s okay and made it out into deep water.”

However, the team did manage to get a skin sample from near its dorsal fin before it made off, which will undergo genetic analysis. It will, at least, enable them to find out whether the whale was male or female.

What are they?Book depositories where the public can reference and borrow books and other sources of information. Traditionally they’re supported by the government and open to all community members. Do they offer anything else?Basic services, such as computer facilities and internet access, classrooms and meeting spaces as well as research assistance. They may also host public lectures and exhibits.I know what a library is. Why are you telling us this?Because we’re rapidly approaching the completion and opening of Oman’s first library for children. Final work is being carried out on the Al Qurum building where the new slogan will be ‘Access to knowledge is our right’.Who can use it?Access will be granted to this magical kingdom of literature on an age basis (up to 18 years), rather than on a height-restricted basis as found in Disney World.How will the children get there? It’s not clear yet. All of them are too young to drive, few would be foolish enough to ride their trikes on the roads and there’s no public transport to speak of.So the children will be relying on their parents who then have to wait outside? I guess it’s possible.If I was a child, why wouldn’t I just use the internet?I would say: “Listen here young ‘un. Believe it or not, not everything can be found out by texting your mate on WhatsApp. I also suspect your teachers are bored of marking 30 similar Wikipedia-based essays so stop asking Uncle Google and let’s see at least a half-cooked effort to go beyond the top ten search-engine results.” Do say: Please turn off all mobile phonesDon’t say: Google anyone?

A W E E K I N P I C T U R E S

At least 49 dead and 1079 arrested in clashes during anti-government marches to mark the third anniversary of the 2011 uprising in Egypt

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

French President Francois Hollande announces split from long-term partner Valerie Trierweiler after allegations of his affair with an actress

Baltic state of Latvia this week appointed its first female prime minister, Laimdota Straujuma

Iraq lifts the inaugural football AFC Under 22 Championships after beating Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the Sultan Qaboos Stadium in Muscat

Photo

s (ins

et) : B

ernard

O’Ne

ill

PublIc lIbrarIeS

B i t e S i z e dOUR NEW WEEKlY SlOT TAKES A lIGhThEARTEd

lOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE OF ThE WEEK.

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G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w N E W SYOUR OMAN

G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w N E W S

INNOCENTS

They had put the lives of their children in someone else’s hands. The parents of the youngsters from

the Pakistan School Muscat (PSM) assumed, quite rightly, that their sons and daughters would be safe.

The pupils who boarded the allegedly overcrowded bus last Wednesday morning had also placed their trust in the driver, believing that he would deliver them safely to school.

All of them were let down.From the crushed wreckage later

taken from the scene on the back of a recovery lorry, it was clear the consequences would be devastating.

Three young lives were lost.Awais Nazir, nine, was in class

four, a sharp and well-behaved student, who was described by his teacher as ‘one of my favourites’. Sayyid Fahad, 10, was a fifth-grader and brilliant student. He had been so excited last month when the class went on a trip to the circus visiting Muscat.

The funeral service of both boys was held in the ROP Hospital Mosque last Thursday. Their bodies were then flown back to Pakistan.

Fareeha Parvez, 16, was the eldest victim. She was due to be married next month and was, according to friends, ‘very excited’ about the forthcoming wedding in Pakistan.

Her distraught mother is reportedly inconsolable. “She hasn’t stopped crying ever since she heard the news. She is not able to come to terms with the death of her daughter,” said a friend.

One can only imagine what private agonies the parents of these children are going through. The guilt, the inner turmoil and the anger must be almost overwhelming.

Two other students remain critical in Khoula Hospital. Dozens of others suffered minor injuries.

Now questions are being asked

as to who or what was to blame for the tragic accident in which the private school bus travelling from Mabela overturned around 7am after hitting a rubbish collection truck in Qurum near Petroleum Development Oman (PDO).

Reports suggest that the bus was overloaded, carrying 36 or 38 children in a vehicle with a capacity for only 25.

If true, the pupils would have been tightly packed inside, jostling for space and probably fighting for one of the window seats. There would have been only subdued chatter – many of the pupils were sleeping (it’s a two-hour journey in total). They would have woken to the sound of metal crunching into metal, followed by screams as the bus turned over three times. Some managed to escape out of the open windows, crawling through broken glass to safety.

“When I woke up, I saw the bus had toppled over and I found myself hanging in the air holding one of the iron rods of the bus,” said Mohammad Kabeer Umer, of Class X-A.

As news of the accident spread on social media, frantic parents rushed to the hospital, unaware whether their child was safe or not,

to be met by scenes of chaos.“It is a sad day for all of us,”

said Muhammad Saeed Khan, chairman of the Pakistani Social Club, echoing the thoughts of many.

The bus carrying the children was unregulated, as all private buses are. Many parents have no choice but to send their children to school in these unchecked vehicles. Government schools, on the other hand, have strict high standards of transport safety.

Safety campaigners say that uniform laws on school transport are urgently required to prevent another tragedy happening.

“School bus transportation and drivers are not regulated by law in any significant way,” says Bernadette Bhacker-Millard, an Omani lawyer and co-founder of Sustainability, which is involved in road safety initiatives.

“Any Omani over the age of 18 years is eligible to drive a school bus or other utility vehicle (taxi) provided he possesses a ‘light’ driving licence.

“There are no specific requirements or training that an applicant must satisfy in order to quality as a bus driver.”

Regulated training and minimum

experience requirements for drivers are vital, she adds. The driver of the PSM bus was experienced and had apparently been driving the school bus for some years.

Y spoke to an accident research and safety expert who is working with the government on a long-term strategy to improve the country’s appalling record on the roads – we have the highest death rate from road accidents in the GCC.

He said that the issue of school buses was already being looked at, with proposals for change being drawn up, before the bus crash.

Unconfirmed reports have claimed speeding was a factor in the crash, with figures of 90km/h being mentioned. Sources claim that the 32-year-old driver was allegedly fiddling with his mobile phone in the moments before the accident.

As the investigation continues, a review of the safety of thousands of pupils is starting with the Indian, Bangladesh and Pakistan school authorities collaborating on ways to protect children on the journey to class.

“We will have to discuss the issue in detail and chalk out plans to ensure the safety of our students while being ferried by transporters,” said Tonny George Alexander, the chairman of Indian schools’ board of directors, which had a meeting.

Meanwhile, the children travelling in the PSM bus from Mabela who escaped injury are to be given free transport until March. There are plans to move them to a new school in Seeb, closer to their homes, from the new academic year in April.

“We will ensure those children are reaching school and returning home safely,” says PSM principal, Muhammad Zakriya Babur.

Unfortunately, for Awais, Sayyid and Fareeha, it is too late.

Photo

s : Om

an Ob

serve

r

As a review of pupil safety gets underway after the bus crash tragedy, which left three dead and dozens injured, the question is whether it could have been avoided, reports Kate Ginn

THE

Photo

s : Om

an Ob

serve

r and

Time

s of O

man

Congratulates Magazine

Mazoon Printing Press

on their 6th Anniversary

Congratulates Magazine

Mazoon Printing Press

on their 6th Anniversary

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Congratulates Magazine

Mazoon Printing Press

on their 6th Anniversary

Congratulates Magazine

Mazoon Printing Press

on their 6th Anniversary

Congratulates Magazine

Mazoon Printing Press

on their 6th Anniversary

Congratulates Magazine

Mazoon Printing Press

on their 6th Anniversary

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y t w e e t u p y magazine celebrates 6th birthday at the grand hyatt muscat

yOuR OMAN

Goodies from BreadTalk

Garry Friend with Y editor Penny Fray

Kate Ginn with Y reader

Biljana Mohan, Mercedes-Benz

Nicole Bassett, Grand Hyatt Muscat Barbra and Greg Young

The Three Muscateers

Karen Wilmot

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G A l l e R y I n t e r v i e w N e w s

p I c O f t h e d A ythe light of heritage exhibition at the omani society of fine arts in muscat

HH Sayyid Numair bin Salim Al Said

Ambassador José Urtasun of Spain

Maryam al Zadjali

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Lone Survivor After several meetings back in 2007 with the bestselling book’s author, Marcus Luttrell, director Peter Berg finally brings the film version of Lone Survivor to the big screen. It tells the true story of a group of four American soldiers belonging to the elite Navy Seals who are tasked with capturing a senior Taliban commander in Afghanistan. When a wandering shepherd compromises the secrecy of the mission, the close-knit unit has to fight to survive behind enemy lines. It’s a film designed to hit the viewer with the abject fear of being hunted by an overwhelming force and, as such, one that’s set to deliver quite a ride.

Bollywatch

THIS WEEK’S MOVIES

P R E V I E W

For more information and times, go to:

City Cinema: citycinemaoman.net

Al Bahja Cinema: albahjacinema.net

Star Cinema: Tel +968 24791641

The Numbers Station

John Cusack plays a troubled CIA agent, Emerson Kent, who’s given the unenviable task of protecting a

MOVIES MOVIESWEEKTHIS

‘numbers station’, a top-secret facility where encrypted messages are sent and received. But things soon take a turn for the worse when a gang of assailants besiege the station. It’s a middling spy thriller in which Cusack puts out a by-the-numbers performance but one that is adequately supported by that of his co-star, Malin Akerman.

Labor Day

Based upon Joyce Maynard’s novel, Labor Day tells the story of Henry Wheeler and his mother (Kate Winslet), a depressed mother suffering from the heartbreak of a failed marriage. After a chance encounter in a supermarket with an escaped convict (Josh Brolin), Winslet and her son are forced into harbouring the fugitive. Melodramatic and perhaps a little far-fetched at times, Labor Day ultimately presents an easily digestible flick to while away a couple of hours.

JAi Ho Bollywood superstar Salman Khan appears in this Hindi movie packed full of action sequences and over-the-top fight scenes. Kicks fly, baddies are thrown to the ground, cars crash and motorcycles jump in a movie that’s actually a remake of the 2006 Telugu movie Stalin.

The film centers around the concept of a ‘benevolent chain of action’, a philosophy in which every person who receives help has to help a further three people. But things go wrong for the hero and inventor of the

idea, Major Jai Agnihotri, when he tries to wage war against a corrupt politician

Early indications from the box office hint at a poor reception by audiences as the film struggles to claw back some of its costs. But there’s still time for it to be a success.

Despite the sad death of Tom Clancy in October last year, his juggernaut of books and their characters keep rolling. This film isn’t an adaptation of one his novels, but is an original story based upon one of his central characters, Jack Ryan, the hardened CIA agent who seems to have developed the uncanny ability to spoil many a Machiavellian plot.

The film kicks off with Ryan (Chris Pine) fresh back from his tour of Afghanistan and settling into his days as a financial analyst in the Financial Intelligence Unit of the CIA, mentored by Kevin Costner. But

the talented protagonist soon uncovers a Russian plot to trigger the collapse of the U.S economy. Thrust into the world of espionage, Ryan goes head to head with the plot’s architect Viktor Cherevin. played by the director himself, Kenneth Branagh.

Admirable performances by Chris Pine and Kevin Costner are supported by Keira Knightley, who recently expressed her wish to get away from the tragic roles in which she’s typically been cast. Branagh is no action movie director and to some extent it shows, but equally so does his own acting pedigree.

Jack Ryan Shadow Recruit

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS

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OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS

Punching up out of the ocean waves 4km off the coast of Muscat is the small island of Al Fahal. This iconic landmark measures just a few hundred

metres across and in length, but offers up some great diving spots, with divers normally able to find at least one sheltered dive site on any given day. Angelfish, triggerfish and damselfish are just a few of the species of fish to which the island’s small coastline and nearby wrecks are home. Just a 30 minute ride from Muscat, it’s easy for those in search of underwater adventure to reach the coral-filled waters where blacktip reef sharks lazily circle - giving the island’s its other, more ominous, name, ‘Shark island’.

al FaHal ISland12.

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4

MADE WITH HEART

PIANO MAN

Crafty in Oman is getting an early start on the Valentine’s Day festivities with a craft fair from 9 am to 1pm at Mumtaz Mahal’s garden, Way no. 2601 Entry costs RO1.Interested vendors should contact craftyoman@gmail.com.

Enjoy an enchanted musical evening as the world-renowned pianist Maurizio Pollini and the Orchestra Mozart come together to perform classical masterpieces at the Royal Opera House Muscat at 7.30 pm. For details see www.rohmuscat.org.om

THIS WEEK

WHAT To Do.

WHAT To SEE.

WHAT To HEAR.

JANUARY / fEbRUARY

Saturday

01

february

05 06TO

Feb03 to 05

Have you ever wanted your own brand of perfume like most celebrities? If you reside in the GCC, here’s your chance. Ajmal has launched the Ajmal Young Perfumer Initiative. Create your own perfume and win cash prizes. www.ajmalypi.com

01 07february TONOSE IT ALL

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4

homeHOME

THIRST QUENCHER Saturday

01

Runners get the hump

I-Care Initiative will be distributing cold water bottles to construction workers as part of their 12th water distribution event at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Muscat. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact www.i-careoman.org

0506

febr

ua

ry

TO

Visit the IDF Oman Expo at the Oman International Exhibition Centre for a one-

stop solution for interior and outdoor design, décor and furnishings for your home or

office.  Visit www.omanexhibitions.com for details.

chic

Feb 5-6

Read ItThe Monuments MenRobert M Edsel recounts a true story involving allied soldiers risking their lives to retrieve priceless art stolen by the Nazis. The book contains minute historic details accompanied by photographs that makes this incredible book a must-read! The movie version, out soon, is directed by George Clooney and stars a long list of of Hollywood names making it a highly anticipated movie.

Attend the Annual Equestrian Festival Racing to witness camel competing in one of Oman’s oldest traditions. T obe held at Barka Al-Felaij track.

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Why y? Why y? Why y?

y’s storySome of the

hard-hitting issues Y has investigated

in the last year:

Y Magazine is the essential lifestyle companion for life in Oman, featuring investigative stories, latest news, interviews with Oman’s movers and shakers, global travel, fashion, movies and food.

Y’s editorial team is talented, experienced, creative and diverse, and form an integral part of an established media group.

A copy of Y is never far away; available at a host of outlets, from Sifa to Sohar.

Diabetes HiV roaD safety

female Harassment animals

in captiVity teenage

smoking customer care

stanDarDs plastic bags

cancer patient care car

safety seats fake car parts

Drugs coastal pollution

cHilD obesity illegal

poacHing anD smuggling

illegal pHone scams

Drink DriVing anD tHe

scourge of litter

30535,00020,000

10,675,000

editions published

printed every week

online readers

copies printed in total

copies

Y’s team brings you news and information on all the latest events to keep you entertained and active.

Y is dynamic and evolving, fully integrated with social media and other online resources.

Y listens to you. In October 2012 we talked to over 3000 readers to see what you did and didn’t like about the magazine – and changed it for the better!

Equestrian show jumping in OmanBusiness etiquette

An interview with Mohammad al ZubairHomeopathy in the Middle East

Kitesurfing in MuscatThe nutritional benefits and dangers of dates

Sri LankaAn interview with author

Paulo Coelho

STORIES WE COVERED IN OUR

VERy fIRST EDITION

WAyS TO CONNECT WITH y AND TO ENjOy OUR gREAT CONTENT

y-oman.com

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Why y?

Make it an unforgettable Valentine

local flavours

O.R. 36++

for couple

Live band music +

Personalized gift +

Red Rose

Tel: +968 24514444, Goldentulipseeb.com

@GoldenTulipSeebGoldenTulipSeebHotel

For reservation and further information,

please call Jeffrey Fayad on

(+968) 97882080 or by e-mail at

fb@goldentulipseeb.com

Make this Valentine’s Day a memorable experience with an exquisite BBQ and International live cooking that would create our mouth watering recipes. Golden Tulip Seeb is using it’s expertise to create a culinary evening indulgent enough to take any loved one’s breath away.

Don’t miss the chance to book your table; reservations are limited during this busy period.

In addition, a special room package awaits those wanting to make a night of it. For just O.R. 75.000++ you can enjoy a superior room with special arrangements, dinner for two at Le Jardin Valentine Dinner, bottle of champagne in the room and a buffet breakfast the following day.

ARE YOU A

Y WINNER?

To help celebrate our 6th birthday, we organised some fabulous

competitions for our readers – and their children - to get involved in.

We asked our younger followers to design and draw a birthday for Y, with prizes for the best ones. We also teamed up with BMW to offer 10 child car booster seats as part of their ‘Stay Alert, Stay Alive’ campaign.

We had fantastic response and thank you to everyone who entered. Here are the lucky ones. GRAND DESIGN Our smaller readers got creative with pens, crayons, paints and pencils to come up with some great Y birthday cards. We had a couple of entries from children who were also about to celebrate their sixth birthday.

Well done to all of you who took part.

Our editor, Penny, chose the winning designs.

To make it fair, we had 2 winners for the younger ones and two prizes for older children.

Using a child car seat is proven to save lives and prevent injuries in the event of an accident. Spreading the message in Oman is the challenge. But thanks to companies like BMW and its ‘Stay Alert, Stay Alive’ campaign, along with Y’s push for child car seat legislation, things are changing. y teamed up with BMW’s Oman dealer Al jenaibi International Automobiles to offer 10 of the special booster car seats for older children. THE WINNERS ARE: Anirudh. A • Colin Sequeria • P. Vijayasri • Tashi Y. Tsarong • Hina Kauser • Wasantha Senanayake • jeraldine Resulta • Shima Issa al Balushi • Aziza al Sawafi • Dhruv Tushar BMW will be in touch with you to arrange collection of your seats. Look out in next week’s Y and our Facebook page for some more great competitions, including a chance to win an app for The Entertainer, which provides buy one, get one free offers for the best dining, attractions, and for beauty salons, hotels and much more.

CAR SEAT COMPETITION

1st Place Atharv Bhatt, who will turn six soon. You win an experience at the Build-A-Bear store in Muscat Grand Mall to choose and make your own bear and a Y goodie bag.

2nd Place Yash Veer Pratap Banga aged five. Prize: A RO5 voucher to spend at the Build-A-Bear store in Muscat Grand Mall and a Y goodie bag.

1st Place Nikita Gaikwad aged 10. Prize: Photo session with Sausan al Busaidi photography (sausansbusaidi@icloud.com, www.facebook.com/sausan.albusaidi.photography, Instagram sausanalbusaidiphotography)

2nd Place Suhera Rayyan, age 9 Prize: A RO5 voucher to spend at the Build-A-Bear store in Muscat Grand Mall and a Y goodie bag.

YOun

GO

LDER

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BEHIND

J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 50 24

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OF Y MAGAZINE

Name: Penny Fray Role: Managing EditorBackground: A qualified and highly experienced journalist turned editor. Under her guardianship, several lifestyle magazines for both Trinity Mirror and Archant in the UK were revamped and

driven to commercial success. Star sign: Leo

Interesting Facts: She’s a Welsh speaking former lawyer who can read people’s palms.

Name: Kate Ginn Role: Sections Editor

Background: An English Lit graduate with more than 20

years experience as a journalist on national and international newspapers in both news and features. She has worked on several publications in the UK and the Middle East, including the Daily Mail in London and The National in Abu Dhabi.Star sign: LeoInteresting Facts: Been on death row in the US, drank tea with ex UK PM John Major, and once slept in a treehouse for a week on a story.

Name: Tom Robertson Role: Contributing Writer / Sub EditorBackground: An accomplished writer and strategist for high profile politicians. Previously worked as a policy adviser in the European Parliament. Star sign: GeminiInteresting Facts: Can speak French

and basic Arabic.

Name: Matt Herbst Role: Art DirectorBackground: Attended the famous Johannesburg Art, Ballet, Drama and Music

School before going on to work as a mixed medium artist and

designer (among other things).Star Sign: Libra

Interesting Fact: His paintings are showcased in Saatchi’s online gallery.

Name: Jerzy Wierzbicki Role: PhotographerBackground: A Polish archaeologist turned photographer whose pictures have appeared everywhere from National Geographic to Newsweek.Star Sign: Virgo/Libra CuspInteresting Fact: Has just completed his 248th trip into the Omani Interior.

BEHINDTHE SCENES

ave you ever found yourself thinking ‘I wonder if it’s really like that?’ whilst watching the latest installment of Ugly Betty? Did The September Issue leave you wanting more? Well,

let me put your mind to rest, as I give you a unique insight into life at a weekly lifestyle magazine here in Oman.

Y’s office is based in Muscat’s achingly authentic fishing village of Seeb. It’s from here that we flit from fashion shows to café openings, food tastings to film screenings – and lots, lots more. With our network of contacts, we also find hard-hitting news stories that matter to you – whether they concern education, health or corruption.

By virtue of our jobs, Y’s five-strong team of journalists and creatives (not forgetting our columnists and contributors) understand more than most about the vibrant life available to the Sultanate’s urban professional. And the magazine you’re reading is the distillation of our knowledge, curated and dictated by me – the editor, aka The Devil Wears Primark.

Being a journalist is fun. There’s never a dull or repetitious day. But equally the hours are incredibly long, the pace is fantastically fast and the challenges are endless (try writing an average of 35,000 researched words in less than four days.) That’s why I swapped a career as a lawyer to join it. Like Kate, our section’s editor, I saw journalism as the lifeblood of democracy and daily newspapers as the bastion of principled and balanced

journalism. No one (no one I ever knew, anyway) entered the world of print with the intention of getting rich, becoming powerful or having a balanced lifestyle.

An average day starts at 7am going through emails, brainstorming, writing, interviewing, party planning, sales strategising, proof reading… (take a deep breath)…meeting movers, shakers and everything in-between, plus finding solutions to the daily problems that keep sneaking into the editor’s office. By the time I’ve reached home, it’s usually well after midnight, my mind still buzzing with ideas and future plans while my belly groans with hunger (six cans of Diet Coke and eight packets of Kit Kat doth not a meal make).

But I’m not alone. Kate, our seasoned news guru, is constantly scouring the Sultanate, sniffng out stories to keep abreast of the fast moving developments in this dynamic country that we all call home. Tom splits his time between writing features and checking pages for errors, while Jerzy’s camera flash is endlessly popping here, there and everywhere. In the meantime, Matthew, our designer, is putting the pages together (although this week he’s on holiday and a creative genius called Freddie is at the design helm.)

We have very different personalities and skills but what we all have in common is professionalism and a passion for our product.

We may be small but we have big ambitions and our journey has just begun. Happy birthday Y!

H

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So what’s this all about?Officially it’s called Muscat Speedway 24 Hours Endurance Race. Simply put, it involves teams of go-karts hurtling around a track non-stop for a day.What happens?Teams race against each other for 24 hours to the chequered flag. They will be driving through the night.One person has to drive a go-kart for 24 hours straight?No, don’t be silly that would be too hard – and, for that matter, dangerous. There are teams of drivers who play ‘tag’ and swap into the driving seat when one feels tired.How many in a team?For safety reasons, there a minimum of four and a maximum of 10 per team. Each team has a manager to work on strategy and team tactics.Who are the teams?We can reveal that Y Magazine has a kart and our sister radio station, Merge 104.8, has also entered.What about the go-karts?Good question. These particular karts are not kid’s play but

GET ON TRACK

high-powered machines capable of reaching a top speed of 85km/h on a home straight. The Sodi RT8 has a 390cc Honda engine and is considered to be among the best in its class. It looks the real deal too – like a miniature F1 car.Where is all the action?It’s taking place at the karting track at the Oman Automobile Association in Seeb, Muscat.When?14 & 15 February (Sat & Sun). The karts start at 3pm. If you live close to the track (as one Y staff member does) you’ll be able to hear the roar of the engines in the evening. Tell me about the track?Well, it’s 1.2km long with nine corners and four track configurations. There is a pit lane and refuelling area, along with a driver change zone.Can anyone take part?The only restriction is that drivers must be aged 13 or over. Parental

authorisation is needed for anyone under 18 taking part. Full safety equipment is worn – uniforms, helmet and gloves are provided - and the organisers supply the kart.What will the team drivers be doing when they’re not actually in the hot seat?Sleeping probably. And relaxing. There is a team lounge area with tents, a bonfire at night and even a Jacuzzi. Nice!Is it open to the public?Yes and the drivers would love to have lots of support, so head down to cheer them on. You’ve got 24 hours to choose from.

Will there be anything happening off the track?Only 10 hours of amazing live entertainment with 5 bands (Omani and expat) in addition to two DJs! There will also be a food and entertainment area. Plus if you’re in to drifting, you’ll find a competition under way on site near to the track.Is karting cool?It’s growing all the time in Oman, and is fast becoming a hobby for young Omanis and expats who like speed. Plus it helps youngsters to drive responsibly, learn control and channel all that energy.

Don’t take our word for it though, just ask Sebastian Vettel (the reigning F1 champion), Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button and Mark Webber, to name but a few of the top racing drivers who started in karting.

Words: Kate Ginn

It’s a sporting challenge with a difference.

that will test them to the limits – for 24 hoursThese guys are taking go-karting to the extreme in a race

Is it too late to take part in the 24 Hours Endurance?

You’ll need to hurry. Call +968 95370130 or 96590300

for registration, or contact loay@omanauto.org. Check

out www.facebook.com/omanautomobileassociation or

www.omanauto.org

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food

drinkand

T r e n d n e w r e s t a u r a n t r e v i e w s

Trends The buffaloberry could be

the next new superfruit according to the Journal of Food Science.

These tiny red sour fruits are rich in the antioxidant lycopene that some researchers say reduces the risk of cancer and may help to slow cellular ageing. Native to

North America, it contains just enough sugar to

make it palatable.

Dried Canadian buffaloberry

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Many of us lead life at a frightening pace these days. Longer commutes to work

and an ‘always on’ lifestyle with no escape from the dreaded emails, are just a couple of reasons why we find ourselves under more and more time constraints. Sadly, one of the first things that can suffer is our diet, as we find the amount of time available to prepare wholesome and healthy food increasingly unavailable. The temptation is growing to grab a takeaway on the way home rather than head to the supermarket for a batch of fresh vegetables. Not to mention the time needed to then prepare and cook the vitamin-packed goodies.

While health supplements have been around for years and their long-term benefits hotly contested by many, a newer blend of essential vitamins is gathering support in the nutritional world; Supergreens. So what exactly are they and what makes them so super?

They’re the kind of green foods that have huge nutritional value but rarely feature as ingredients in our

favourite recipes. I dare say few of us have considered a Caesar salad using algae instead of lettuce.

Supergreens can include wheat grass, barley, alfalfa and algae, such as spirulina and chlorella. They’re not the kind of foods that Michelin-starred chefs are clamouring to have in their dishes, so it’s a sector in which these Supergreens are being mixed into an increasing number of juices found on our shelves or served at the smoothie counter. They’re also being produced in greater volumes in capsule or powder form, as a dietary supplement.

Supergreens are believed to be a good source of Vitamin C, essential for maintaining healthy bones, skin tendons and ligaments, as well as being an antioxidant.

Such greens are also becoming increasingly well known for their ability to provide a high percentage of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin A, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system and is also another antioxidant. So essential is this vitamin that the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that

r e v i e w s

Green with EnvyWhat nutrition pills should you be popping noW? asks thomas RobeRtson

ProbioticsWhile the idea of ingesting live bacteria or yeast seems a little strange at first, consuming these organisms is proving to be more than a passing fad. Once you get used to the idea that our digestive systems are home to more than 500 varieties of bacteria, it makes sense to top them up every now and then. They’ve been shown to both improve digestion and maintain the integrity of the lining of the intestines.

Omega 3This fatty acid is essential for bodily functions such as controlling blood clotting and building cell membranes. According to Dr Frank Sacks, a professor of Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, it can also prevent heart disease.

also hoT in The world of supplemenTs

The health benefits of the vitamin are numerous, from proving an invaluable antioxidant through to playing a role in muscle growth.

Cereal grasses also contain high amounts of chlorophyll, the chemical in plants which give them their green colour. But this chemical can be put to good use by our bodies too: “Chlorophyll can help escort cell-damaging toxins like dioxin from the body via the liver,” says Victor S. Sierpina, MD, and a Professor of Integrative Medicine. “Additionally, it’s a key compound for improving the function of essential detoxification pathways.”

In keeping with this supergreen philosophy, a number of supplements these days are also using chlorella, a single celled micro algae that the Japanese are famed for consuming as a detox aid. When chlorella is ingested in the human body, its understood to eliminate unwanted substances and toxins by binding itself to unwanted metals, chemicals and pesticides. Not to mention it’s protein content. Dried chlorella is estimated to be comprised of up to 50 per cent protein and also to contain 19 amino acids, of which eight are deemed to be essential for healthy human development.

But for those keener to rely on more traditional ingredients, the rise of the supergreen smoothie is well and truly underway. It’s not just about your usual fruits anymore. No more orange and mango crushes. It’s more kale and spinach, kale being rich in Vitamin K and essential for healthy bone growth and the maintenance of bone density.

So expect to see a lot more shades of green when it comes to the world of smoothies. The power of the humble green leaf is here to stay.

supplementation of Vitamin A has helped to avoid 1.25 million deaths since 1998. But the knock-on effects are tragically even greater; the WHO estimates up to 500,000 Vitamin A deficient children become blind every year, half of whom die within 12 months of losing their sight.

The wheatgrass, barley grass and alfalfa being placed in the little green pills are also incredibly high in protein, and as such have become a rapid favourite with vegetarians. So much so, that in a comparison between servings of wheatgrass, broccoli and spinach, it was the humble grass that was shown to possess a higher concentration of protein. It’s also an excellent source of Vitamin E, containing four times the amount found in broccoli.

Supergreens come in pills, powdered or raw

alfalfa

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I must confess to having a fondness for Scotland and all things Scottish, including the food. Having lived in Edinburgh and

Glasgow, for a total of seven years, I know my way around the country’s culinary offerings. I’m well aware then, how unfair the perception is in some quarters that Scotland is a land of fatty food, haggis and that infamous local delicacy of the deep-fried mars bar (more of which later).

So I was looking forward to seeing the best side of Scottish fare represented at MacKenzies Café & Deli, bang in the middle of expat land in MQ.

Certainly the décor was spot on. From the thistle wallpaper to the mock stag head on the wall and the Harris Tweed cushions on the chairs, it made me feel a little pang for the wild Highlands.

My dining companion, who’s Welsh, was also clearly enamoured by the Celtic vibe.

My personal bugbear at restaurants is being cramped. There’s nothing worse than tables rammed so close

that you can see and hear everything from the next table (never a good thing, I find).

No such trouble at MacKenzies with plenty of space. The deli part is at the back and there are two eating spaces, one in front of the serving counter, and a spacious area round the corner.

I had heard that service can be a bit hit-and-miss at times but our waiter, Sam, was straight over with menus and a smile as we arrived. He even admirably kept his patience as I fussed over which table to sit at.

It won’t take you long to browse the menu – it’s not extensive - but what’s there all sounds good. There is the standard lunchtime fare, from Paninis to sandwiches, along with salads. According to its website, however, the café’s piece de resistance is its renowned pies and quiches.

A cheddar and mushroom quiche sounded interesting but in the end (persuaded by the Welsh girl across the table), I went for the

feta and leek (leek being one of the national symbols of Wales). She, on the other hand, went for a mozzarella, tomato and pesto Panini (persuaded by me, as I’m a quarter Italian).

My quiche was a wee triumph; warm from the oven, with crumbly, buttery shortcrust pastry and a wonderful filling, the leeks and feta cheese blending like new best friends. To give it that Scottish element,

sides of neeps and tatties (turnip and potatoes) would have

been nice.But the side salad was fine,

if a bit small.

T r e n d N e w R e s t a u r a n t R E v I E w SFood

dRINkANd

Celtic charm brings a Scottish flavour to Muscat and the food isn’t bad either, says Kate Ginn

At least I had a side salad, though. Welshy’s Panini looked a tad lonely on the plate with nothing at all to keep it company. It was pronounced as ‘okay but nothing special.’

I would have liked to get stuck into some haggis (as we were dining the day before Burns Night) but there was no sign of a ‘wee beastie’ on the menu, or not that I could see anyway.

Drinks were good. My orange juice was obviously fresh and the mango smoothie went down well.

Since arriving, my eye had been on the cakes displayed invitingly at the front of the counter. My sweet tooth was tingling in anticipation of chomping into some of the ‘wee bites’.

It was at this point, that I went a bit crazy with the ordering. And so arrived at our table: a mini lemon meringue pie, coconut millionaire shortbread, a slice of lemon drizzle cake and a mars bar crispy. I would have had the squat small scones too but for a sudden, and unwelcome, attack of level-headedness.

All the cakes at MacKenzies are homemade. The lemon meringue was nicely tart and the lemon drizzle cake was well balanced, if a little dry. Best in our little dessert show had to go to the millionaire shortbread (gooey caramel and thick, soft chocolate with a crumbling base) and the mars bar crispy (Rice Krispies mixed with melted mars bar). Now, thankfully this mars bar concoction

was nothing like the deep-fried version mentioned earlier. That

coronary-inducing, calorific-laden, fat-saturated sweet is nothing short of monstrously delicious. It should be illegal. Invented in Scotland and now world famous, it’s an ordinary mars bar fried in the batter commonly used

for deep-frying fish. I had one in Edinburgh and it’s

stayed in my memory and arteries ever since.Instead, I finished with a

cappuccino and a piece of Tablet (Taiblet in Scots), which is a confection made from sugar, condensed milk and butter. It tastes a bit like a piece of hard fudge.

My cappuccino was a little flat, not too much froth (which I prefer), which kind of summed up the atmosphere too. There was something missing, a key ingredient that would have turned MacKenzies from a nice café into a great café, but we couldn’t work out what it was. The staff were pleasant (though a bit more interaction would have been nice), the interior clean and chic, the food good if not exceptional, but it just didn’t have quite the Highland fling that I was hoping for.

Mac Snack

VERDICT:

Fair Scottish scoff but atmosphere a

bit lacking.

7 10

Info BoxMACKENZIES CAFÉ & DELI

Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat

www.mackenziesdeli.comwww.facebook.com/

MackenziesDeliTel: 9777 6111

Opening Hours: 8am-8pm, including Fridays

Lunch for two (with drinks and coffee): RO18.45

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J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 50 3 2

EASY DOES IT Fashion takes a comfortable stance this season, focusing

on retro silhouettes and fluid lines - for inspiration

look to Michael Kors (pictured), Chloé and Gucci, where roomy trousers and voluminous tunics whisper

easy elegance.

HEALTH&BEAUTY

H e a l t h B e a u t y fA s H i o n

Michael Kors’ Resort 2014 collection offered

a modern take on sleek 70s proportions

with Omani shades of suntan, aqua and

white.

J A n 3 0 - f E B 0 5 / i s s U E 3 0 50 3 2

32-33 Y ISSUE 305_health & beauty TR.indd 32 1/28/14 6:48 PM

J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 5 0 3 3

DoWnTiME DiVA1. If the haute-hippy look isn’t your thing, make Katharine Hepburn your style heroine with classic shirts, structured jackets and wide-leg pants 2. Keep your palette soft and neutral with cream, mushroom and warm pinks 3. A light trench, like the ones spotted at Lanvin, will keep Oman’s night nip at bay.

CREATURE COMFORTS

Penny’s tips on laid-back luxe:

Zara does it once again with its fluid yet feminine silhouette. RO12.90 on sale

A bit of feet bling lifts an otherwise simple, slouchy outfit. These boho sandals are from Accessorize. From RO21

This luxurious looking Mango ring belies its RO7.95 price tag.

If you tend to carry around everything bar the kitchen sink, this leather H&M bag offers the perfect combination of slouch and roominess. RO52

Relax your look in simple shades and looser shapes, says Penny Fray

Easy, sensual and far too stylish to keep in the bedroom, posh pyjamas presented an alluring new daywear option for spring.

That was back in 2012. Two years on, and the focus on soft, laid-back tailoring continues but this time the look is more bohemian than bedroom.

Inspired by the 1940s and 1970s, Michael Kors and Chloé embraced sailor-style pants with deep pockets, slouchy blouses and easy-to-wear jackets.

Whatever era you channel, the idea is to keep it fluid, feminine, and muted on the colour front.

Celebrities including Stella McCartney, Katie Holmes and Olivia Wilde wear the ‘big easy’ trend best thanks to their tall, lean frames. If you’re more petite, however, try cinching an oversized, high-waisted pair of trousers with a belt and wear heels rather than flats. A cross-body mini bag will help keep you in proportion too.

To evoke the nonchalance of 1970s actresses Ali MacGraw and Lauren Hutton, try a gold medallion. Omani designers do it best but for something a little less tribal and a lot more affordable, head for the mall. Splash, H&M and Accessorize all have an amazing collection of long pendants for less than RO5.

Chloé’s modern take on the classic pinstriped pant means a high-rise nipped-in waist to balance the wide-leg silhouette. RO366

Brooke Gregson’s ‘astrology’ collection has been handcrafted and features diamonds set in the shape of your star constellation. It’s not cheap at RO895, so for something just as quirky and beautiful, head for Muttrah’s gold souq.

32-33 Y ISSUE 305_health & beauty TR.indd 33 1/28/14 6:48 PM

J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 50 3 4

HEALTH&BEAUTY

I can feel my body starting to heat up. Sweat threatens to break through my skin as I flail my arms about in every direction; then it hits me that it’s

hardly been a couple of minutes into the Bollywood Aerodance session and I’m already knackered. My heart is speeding up and my breathing is labouring under the strain of mimicking the freestyle dance steps, syncing them along to the catchy Bollywood song that’s blaring out in the background. The

flashing disco lights makes it feel like we’re in a disco, but we’re not.

Aleem Khan, the instructor for Bollywood Aerodance

at the Balance Health & Fitness gym, does some suave moves while giving motivational instructions, maintaining an

infectious smile to evidence

how much he’s enjoying

his job.We get

10-second breaks in

between the numbers and I

rush to hydrate as my body

screams for more oxygen. I’m so glad

that I was provided with a hand towel as

I wipe the sweat off my drenched brow. I trudge on,

vowing not to give up until the

bitter end. But as soon as the music blasts, I forget my exhaustion. As we near the end of the rigorous but fun session, I feel my body relentlessly ridding itself of toxins.

In just one hour, I’ve burnt up around 800 calories. Crazy huh?

But the cardio workout definitely gets your heart rate high enough to kick-start the fat burning process. Little wonder that it’s fast becoming the new fitness fad in town. The workout is good for your upper and lower body, as well as your core muscles. It increases bone density, muscle strength and also helps in improving basic coordination.

The catchy beats and freestyle steps serve as a great alternative to the drudgery of the treadmill. And unlike the traditional gym, where it’s common practice to plug in your ear phones to blaring music to shut out the world, Bollywood Aerodance is like a social gathering. People share equal enthusiasm for the class and enjoy a great rapport with the instructor.

Khan has been perfecting his craft as a Bollywood Aerodance instructor for over ten years. He previously worked in Malaysia, India and other places before landing his current job in the Sultanate last year.

He says the secret to Bollywood Aerodance’s success is simple: “It’s really got the feel good factor. There’s no attitude, it’s not as rigid as classical dance and there’s a real combination of styles: folk, jazz, salsa, Arabic and street.”

One glance around the dance studio is enough to deduce that people from all backgrounds, ages and gender are eager to shed the calories.

The studio has one wall completely mirrored, giving you access to stare at yourself while you dance. It’s a great way to realise that you’re not the only uncoordinated person in the room. Watching grown men trying their best not to dance with two left feet and women shimmying their shoulders and hips like teenage girls was refreshing.

BOLLYWORK

Combining dance with intense cardio, Shishira Sreenivas tries the latest fat-busting fitness regime to hit Muscat

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34-35 Y ISSUE 305_fashion TR.indd 34 1/28/14 9:01 PM

H e a l t h B e a u t y FA S H I o N

Stick to that strict gym routine because bare

midriffs are here to stay for spring. If you don’t have a teen-toned body

then try this fashion forward outfit from Marks & Spencer.

It shows just a sliver of stomach.

CROPPED TOPS

TREND ALERT

STYLE COUNSEL

Barbra Young, a former designer and retailer

BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

The Bollywood Aerodance class takes place at the Balance Health & Fitness gym, Al Raid Business Centre, Qurum on Sunday: 10 am, Tuesday: 5:30 pm, Thursday: 10 am, Saturday: 10 am & 5:30 pm

The dance routine also helps fight some dangerous but common diseases. It can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, ward off certain cancers and maintain a good level of the ‘happiness-hormone,’ serotonin.

At the end of the hour, Khan got us circling in a train dance before clapping in an expression of pure joy.

After just one session of Bollywood Aerodance, it’s obvious that this fitness fad’s here to stay and flourish. If, like me, you hate the idea of tricking yourself to become a gym rat to get fit, this cardio-based alternative will not only help you shed the calories but also have oodles of fun. But before you head

out to try a Bollywood Aerodance session, make sure you eat a good, nutritious meal as you’ll need all the energy and stamina you can muster to make it to the end of the final song.

A. Being stylish isn’t a matter of cost but creativity. There are plenty of cool fashion bloggers out there who manage to rock a look with

student budgets. They raid relatives’ wardrobes for vintage pieces and adapt cheaper, high street clothes to give them a designer edge. Catwalk collections are there for inspiration only and you’ll often find the same look in cheaper chain stores. They just won’t have the same quality. I prefer to save up and buy something I really love than squander money on lots of budget pieces. It’s about cost per wear. A RO100 dress that you’ll wear 100 times only costs RO1 per outing, whereby a RO10 piece you only wear once is less economical.

If you have any fashion questions for Barbra, email

info@y-oman.com or tweet #style @

ytabloid

Dear Barbra, Every week you show fairly expensive

clothing from malls and designer shops. I’m a housewife and love fashion but I usually buy items in cheaper outlets or back home in India. How can I get fashionable looks for less? Seeta, Ruwi

Q.

From catwalk to closet, this faux leather piece from Matalan is a fraction of the price. From RO20.

Get ready for a stylish spring with pastel leather. This butter soft leather biker jacket from Iro (RO478) can be worn with everything from basic tees to printed dresses.

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J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 5 0 3 7

Another worldIn an otherwise

hostile and barren region, Nimr

Forest offers a hidden gem of

greenery.

CARS ANDINDOORS

P o s t c a r d s f r o m C a r s Y - F i I n d o o r s

J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 5036

TOO LATE? DON’T WORRY. GET Y INSTANTLY ONLINE USING YOUR MOBILE DEVICES & PCVisit www.y-oman.com/current-issue/

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Hypermarket• LuluHypermarket• MuscatPharmacy• National

HospitalityInstitute

• PizzaHut• ShellSelectMBD• BankDhofar• Centrepoint-

Splash• KhimjiMart• NBO• OmanOilAhlain• PizzaHut• PizzaMuscat• ShellSelectCBD• AlMaya

Hypermarket• AlizzIslamicBank• BahwanTravel

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Restaurant• KamatRestaurant• ToshibaShowroom

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Centre• KamatRestaurant• KFC• KhimjiMegastore

–SwarovskiShowroom

• Khimji’sWatches-Showroom

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AbdulRahmanShowroom

• ToyotaQurum• AlAraimiComplex• BalanceGym• BankNizwa• BMWshowroom• BurgerKing• Chili’s• CrownePlaza• FinlandEyeCenter• FunZone• GloriaJean’s

Coffee• JungleRestaurant• LeftBank• McDonald’s• Mercedes

Showroom• MumtazMahal• Nandoos• NissanShowroom• OmanOilAhlain• PizzaHut• Qurum

CommercialComplex

• RasAlHamraClub• SABCOCentre• SecondCup• Starbucks• SultanCentre

Qurum• TchéTchécoffee

shopShatti Al Qurum• BareeqAlShatti

Complex• CarribouCoffee• Darcy’sKitchen• GermanEyeLaser

Center• IndusRestaurant,

ROHM• Intercontinental

Hotel• JawaharatAlShatti

Complex• KayaSkinClinic• MoreCafé,ROHM• MuscatEyeLaser

Center• OasisByTheSea• SecondCup• StarbucksSarooj• AlFair• AlMasaMall• AlShattiCinema

(DunkinDonuts)• AYANASpa• COSMECLINIC• EmiratesMedical

Center• McDonald’s• ShellSelect• VLCCMQ• AlFair• ArabOpen

University• BritishCouncil• CostaCoffee• Darcy’sKitchen• HanaSlimming

Centre• KargeenCafé• KFC• Mackenzies• MoodCafé• OmanOilAhlain• PapaJohn’s• PizzaHut• SaharzBeauty

Saloon• StarbucksAl Khuwair• BadarAlSama• BaitAlReem• BaitAlReem-

CoffeeShop

• CaféVergnano• Centrepoint-

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• DolphinVillage• ModernCollegeOf

BusinessStudies• MuscatCollege• MuscatPrivate

Hospital-Emergency

• MuscatPrivateHospital-Outpatient

• OmanMedicalCollege

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Hypermarket• AsterHospital• BankofBeirut• CoastaCoffee• CrepeCafé

• GMC-MoosaAbdulRahmanShowroom

• LuluHypermarket• Mocha&More

café• OmanOilAhlain• ParkINN• Porsche• StationeryHut• TheChediAzaiba• AlFair• AlMaha• Amara

Dermetology• CostaCoffee• GoldenTulip• Jaguar-MHD• JeepShowroom• McDonald’s• Mitsubishi

Showroom• OmanArabBank• OmanOilAhlain• Peugeot

Showroom• RangeRover-

MHD• Sayarati• ShellSelect• SkodaShowroom• SultanCentre

Azaiba• TowellAutoCentre

-Mazdashowroom• Volvo-MHD• WattayahMotors-

AUDIshowroom• WattayahMotors

-BENTLEYshowroom

• WattayahMotors-VWshowroom

• YamahaAirport• CarribouCoffee• MajanLounge• PlazaPremium

LoungeAl Murtafaa• BankMuscat• KFC• MuscatHillsMawaleh• Chili’s• CostaCoffee• MakkanCafé• NoodleHouse• Starbucks• TimHortonsThe Wave• AlMoujGolfClub• CostaCoffee

• OmanSail• Shakespere&Co.• TheWaveHOHail• BurgerKing• Caledonian

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Muscat-1• KnowledgeOasis

Muscat-2• KnowledgeOasis

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College• Omantel• WaljatCollegeSQU• SQU-Diplomatic

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Commerce• SQU-Students

BankingArea• SQUH-Rception/

CanteenAl Khoud• ALFair• BadarAlSama• PizzaHutSeeb• McDonald’sBarka• AlNahdaSpaand

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CARS ANDOUTDOORS

P o s t c a r d s f r o m C a r s Y - F i I n d o o r sCARS ANDINDOORS

In comparison to the mountainous north, the south of Oman, looks very flat, with few significant geographical landmarks.

With the exception of the Dhofar region, the Empty Quarter and the coast’s rocky shore, there’s just the silhouettes of nodding donkeys spread over the oil fields to be seen.

It’s one of the most oil rich regions in all of Oman so is host to a number of exploration companies.

Desert countries are mostly associated with scorched earth, permanently exposed to the heat and sun, and without either greenery or plentiful animal life. It can appear like a moonscape at time and few tourists venture into

this wilderness. Yet it is possible to find some phenomenal and unique places to visit. The Nimr Forest is one of these.

A few years ago I was on my way back from Salalah to Muscat and I was driving on Route 39, which looked like a shortcut between Thumrait and Hayma. It was late in the afternoon and I was tired after

Nimr ForestJerzy Wierzbicki ventures into an unexpected oasis of Wildlife and vegetation in the south of oman

Destination

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J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 5 0 3 9

a number of long days in Dhofar. I just about managed to travel 250 km from Thumrait before I had to stop for a rest. So upon seeing a concentration of trees nearby, I went and established a small camp before trying to get to sleep as fast as possible.

In the early hours, I was woken by camels on the way to their feeding grounds. Rising from my bed, I looked around and was met by a scene that resembled more of an African savannah than a desert! I was surrounded by trees, their shape resembled crowns, created by the camels and other animals that like to feed on them.

I still had to drive almost 700 km home, so I decided not to hang around

but to just take some pictures and

make a note of the place as a potential

destination for the next time I was in the area.

A few weeks ago, I was on my way back from Dhofar

again, but this time I had the firm intention to be in Nimr a few hours before sunset to have enough time to take photographs. So I set off from Mirbat in the early morning and drove slowly to Thumrait. I stopped only to refuel my vehicle – as well as myself with some marvellous biryani from a small restaurant - before happily heading back on to Route 39. Nimr lay 250 km ahead of me.

During the afternoon, when the sun was still high in the sky, I turned onto a sandy track and drove on towards a massive concentration of trees lying about 3 km ahead of me. Reaching the

trees, I parked my car in their shade and put my dog on his leash before moving off to explore. I was again struck with that same feeling I had had years before. The environment was radically different and one you’re more likely to find in Africa, not the Middle East. Green vegetation stretched away from me towards the horizon. The light was perfect and the whole area was veiled in an astounding silence. The only sound I heard was the wind blowing gently through the trees. It was the perfect experience I had hoped for.

Not wanting to miss this opportunity, I quickly equipped myself with a camera and long lens and moved between the trees bathed in a warm light. Their small green leaves waved gently to and fro in the wind. After several minutes my dog caught the scent of an animal. I was sure that there had to be camels in the area, so I moved quietly over to a small sand heap and hid behind a huge dead root. I set my camera upon a monopod and waited for the camels to appear in a

landscape that glowed warmly, lit by the yellowy-orange light of the approaching evening.

Suddenly I saw a camel walking back from feeding, so I tracked him with my camera and waited for a moment when the animal would be framed by two small trees. It was my shot of the day. The camel was a few dozen metres away. The long lens helped me to maintain a distance from my subject and avoid frightening the animal.

Having returned back to the car, I sat under a nearby tree and made a quick check of the photos I had taken. They were perfect and I was so happy that I felt I deserved a traditionally prepared dinner on a small wood fire. Refreshed by the tasty food, I headed back out on the road to Hayma.

It was a fantastic experience and I hope to return there one day in the future, perhaps with my medium format camera and some traditional black and white film. They would be ideal for capturing the specific mood that prevails there.

HOW TO GET THEREThe total distance from Muscat is around 680 km. Go to Hayma on Route 31 and several kilometres beyond Hayma turn on to Route 39. Travel on this road to Marmul and then Nimr. A few kilometres before the Nimr oil facilities on your left hand side, you’ll see a concentration of trees. Turn on to the sandy track. You’ll need a 4x4. If you have an SUV, reduce the pressure in the tyres and at all times keep to the tracks as the sand between the trees is sometimes very soft. Take extra special care of your children and pets due to the host of creatures in the forest, not to mention the camels and goats, for which this area is a feeding ground. Take care not to startle them. As always, remember to take your rubbish away with you. Location of Nimr Forest:18°38’12.82”N 56° 1’10.73”Etr

avel

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Making a decision to get fit and healthy is the easy part. The hard bit comes

in actually doing the exercise and sticking to it.

If only working out was as easy as finding the excuses not to do

any. Which is where Sean Blake comes in.

Meet the man who’s job it is to metaphorically (or perhaps not) kick you up the butt and make sure that you follow through with all those grandiose plans to lose weight, tone up, follow a healthy eating plan or just take more care of yourself.

Sean, 23, is a personal trainer. He’s a fitness professional and instructor who will soon have you whipped into shape, even the lost causes who claim they can’t, or won’t, exercise (like me).

His goal is to motivate clients (i.e. you) by setting goals and helping you stick to them. The trend for personal trainers is nothing new but where once it was the preserve of hardcore exercise fiends or celebrities, more and more people are opting for the personal touch.

“Personal training is great for anyone who needs a bit of motivation,” says Sean, who is originally from the UK but has been living on-and-off in Oman for 13 years since his family moved here when he was a child.

“Some people don’t like going to the gym or don’t feel comfortable there. I go to people’s houses if they want. Which also means that they can’t escape or be late or not turn up.”

Sean studied a degree in sports and exercise at the University of Birmingham in the UK before taking specialist PT (personal training) exams. “I’ve always loved sports from football to hockey.

“I didn’t want a job sitting behind a desk. I wanted to be active and moving around.”

Think of Sean as having your own personal gym in the house or park - wherever you want to meet.

His client list is varied, from the Omani racing driver Ahmad al Harthy, to mums who want to shift

No motivatioN or lackiNg eNergy? Bored of the gym aNd the same old exercises? it’s time to get yourself a trainer, says kate giNN

UP CLOSEPERSONAL

&

CARS ANDINDOORS

“Some people don’t like

going to the gym or don’t feel

comfortable there. I go to people’s

houses if they want. Which also

means that they can’t escape or

be late or not turn up.”

—Sean Blake

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J A N 3 0 - F E B 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 5 0 4 1

S E A N ’ S T O P T i P S

Make small changes, such as taking the stairs or walking to the shops instead of driving.

Cut down on sugar.A balanced diet should consist of 40-30-30 split of carbs, protein and fat (good fats).

Cut out bread completely.Go for foods that release energy slowly, such as

oats (porridge), which set you up perfectly for the day.

Cardio work is key, if you have a problem with the tummy area.

resistance training like lifting weights (small repetitions) can improve bone density and increase metabolism.

regular exercise can help stave off dementia and improve mental wellbeing.

Remember, there is such a thing as burnout or over-exercising, so always make sure you consult a qualified instructor to help draw up a regime and time-scale suitable for you.

excess weight after having a baby or boost their energy levels.

Age is no excuse either. Sean has one client who is 54 years old and just starting to exercise. In other words, it’s never too late.

As your personal trainer, Sean will advise you on everything from what to eat, exercises to do and how to do them properly. By the end of a session, you’ll be working muscles you never knew existed.

“It’s about making lifestyle choices,” he says. “Taking the stairs instead of the lift or going for a healthy dinner rather than junk food.

“My role is educational and psychological, not just the physical side.

“We start off slowly with the things that you can do and work from there. There’s no point starting people off with exercises they find too difficult. I also use a lot of positive reinforcement.”

Don’t be deceived by his angelic looks, however. If the need arises, he can be very demanding.

“I can be tough if I need to be,” he smiles. “It’s about building up a rapport with a client first. But I always say that if you don’t tell me that you hate me at least once in the first few weeks of training, then I’m not doing my job properly.”

Personal training, like everything else, has to move with the times too. Nowadays many PTs incorporate apps

E A S y E x E R C i S E S

for clients to use with their smartphones and tablets, complimenting the more traditional way of teaching exercises.

“I do recommend an app called MyFitnessPal, which can set a daily calorie goal and help count calories consumed,” says Sean.

“Things like this can work along side personal training sessions.”

Now to the big question, one that everyone wants answered. How long will it take to get results?

Well, Sean reckons that clients working out for an hour with him two or three times a week should see a difference within four to six weeks, whether it’s noticeable weight loss or clothes feeling a little looser than before, or simply noticing rising energy levels.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get yourself a Sean and get exercising. No excuse.

Want Sean to help you? Contact him at +968 96162036.

S q U AT S . one of the

best exercises helping

with mobility and balance.

R U N - WA L k . start off by

walking, even just for two minutes, and gradually build up to

running. there are lots of run-Walk programs.

B O x i N g . good for those with

knee problems as there is very little pressure

on the joints.

S W i m m i N g . great workout for

the whole body and builds stamina.

C a r s Y - F i I N D O O R S p o s t c a r d s f r o m

Duration : 2 Years / 4 Semesters

To apply :Ms. Zahra Al-Kiyumi

Phone: 24730440 / 448 Email: zahra.alkiyumi@majancollege.edu.omWebsite: www.majancollege.edu.om

Course starts March 20, 2014

Application Deadline : February 16, 2014

Mode of Study : Part-Time / Blended Learning (5-6 weekends in a semester)

Entry Criteria : A good first degree - 2.2 Hons. or equivalent Work experience of 2 years or more IELTS 6.0 or equivalent

University of Bedfordshire, UK in partnership with Majan College (University College) offers a reputed masters degree in

International Human Resource Management

M.A IHRM

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CARS ANDINDOORS

Top 5 places To VisiT:1. The Rockefeller Center

2. Empire State Building

3. Central Park

4. Statue of Liberty

5. Broadway

TAKE A BITENew York, otherwise

known as the Big Apple, is the city that never sleeps and it's easy to

see why with such vibrancy.

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My favourite place This is a tough one because I love it all but my absolute favourite has to be the Rockefeller Center. It’s in the centre of Midtown Manhattan, spanning the area between Fifth and Sixth Avenue, and has 19 buildings. There all sorts of things to see and do, from skating on the famous ice rink during the winter months and touring the NBC Studios with a backstage pass, to seeing unobstructed 360 degree city views from the Top of the Rock observation deck. You can also check out food, fashion, celebs and cocktails there.

Highlights Where to start? The world famous Empire State Building is a must, though be prepared for how windy and noisy it is up there when you’re 381m high. Catch a ferry to Staten Island to see the Statue of Liberty or just enjoy a walk through Central Park, a green oasis amid all the concrete and steel. Get your photo taken with the bronze black bull in Wall Street. I also went to Ground Zero to see the memorial for victims of 9/11 – but this is a very personal choice. Shop at Macy’s department store or Bloomingdales (the cup cakes are amazing) – Christmas is a great time to go shopping in NYC - and then take in a Broadway show. They love their sports in NYC, so catch a game, whether it’s the New York Rangers ice hockey team, New York Giants American football or New York Knicks basketball. There are also two baseball teams, New York Mets and New York Yankees. Oh, and you have to try a pizza while in New York, it’s something else. Famous Ben’s Pizza in Soho is hard to beat (and it was where a scene from the film Men in Black 2 was filmed).

Lowlights The food didn’t blow me away and I got fed up seeing a hotdog stand on every corner. Be financially prepared to spend lots too. The first time that I went, I ran out of money three days towards the end. The worst thing for me is that I have to go to bed at night when the city is most alive. This is, after all, the city that never sleeps and I hate the idea of missing a second of it.

Souvenirs Fill your suitcase with Big Apple t-shirts, mugs and caps, along with mini versions of the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. The best things to take away from NYC are the memories, so take lots of photographs and experience everything you can.

Where to stay While NYC is expensive, you can find budget accommodation. There are lots of hostels and cheaper hotels. I stayed in the Hotel Pennsylvania, which is a bit zany but I liked it. If you want to go high end, there’s always the Waldorf Astoria, though you’ll need to take a bank loan to stay there. My view is that if you go to New York to see the sights, the hotel is just somewhere to lay your head down at night. So why blow your budget on a fancy one?

p O S t C A R D S f R O MC a r s Y - f i I n d o o r s

NEW YORKHey, welcome to the best place in the world (in my view at least), New York City (NYC). This metropolitan sprawl is the most populous city in the United States with an estimated 8.3 million inhabitants calling it home. Both the state and city were named after the 17th Century Duke of York, the future King James II of England. The Big Apple, as it’s known, attracts more foreign visitors than any other US city.

For me, New York also signifies something alluring and special. I was fascinated with the idea of it from a very young age when I used to see it in the movies. It always looked so vibrant and full of life and fun. My dream was to celebrate my 21st birthday in New York. I never made it then but I did eventually get there in November 2002, and it was everything that I had hoped for and more. Driving from the airport in a famous New York yellow taxicab and seeing the Manhattan skyline getting closer was an incredible moment. I dropped my bags at the hotel and went straight to Times Square. I spent the next four hours just walking around the city, up Eighth Avenue, going to the Empire State Building, and taking everything in. I’ve been there seven times since and I still get just as excited. I love the buzz and the thrill of being there. You really do get the feeling that, as Frank Sinatra sang, if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.

STATUE oF LIBErTY

THE LANDMArK CHArgINg BULL

THE NEw YorK rANgErS

r ecommends:

Chris Fisher from Merge

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-FIT H E T E C H I N Y O U

EDITO

R’S P

ICK

Absolutely PhabulousAccording to experts, sales of phablets - half phone, half tablet devices - are set to double this year. Tom Robertson looks at the latest models

Y - F IP o s t c a r d s f r o m C a r s I n d o o r s

the market leaderSamSung have releaSed thiS year’S verSion of their hugely SucceSSful 2013 phablet model the note 2. the Note 3 retainS that gorgeouS 1920 x 1080 amoled Screen that makeS watching a movie on your phone a pleaSant experience rather than the uSual painful eye-Squinting

affair. featuring a healthy 16, 32 or 64gb of onboard Storage that can be expanded up to 64gb with a micro Sd card, it’S certainly one for thoSe looking to cram their phone full of tv ShowS and high-reS photoS. offering high end SpecS Such aS a powerful Snapdragon 800 proceSSor and 3gb

of ram, it’S a platform on which to rinSe the moSt out of android’S 4.3 operating SyStem. Stuffed with a whole hoSt of Software Such aS ‘my magazine’, a gloSSy newS feed, and uSeful appS for making full uSe of the StyluS, it’S a phablet that remainS the market leader in itS category. SamSung.com, RO380

the Newcomer Huawei continues to make impressive inroads into the smartphone market and is forging into the phablet sector with an updated version of its Ascend Mate. The Ascend Mate 2,announced recently, features an impressive 5MP sensor for its secondary camera that will shoot a vertical panorama shot to capture you underneath those blue Omani skies. Release first half 2014, Price TBC.

most stylishi soNy Xperia Z Ultra

The Sony Xperia Z is a curious beast. With a huge 6.4 inch screen

it should be a cumbersome giant but is actually strangely finessed.

Tempered glass on both sides gives a minimalistic and stylish appearance,

especially when combined with a fantastically thin 6.5mm chassis.

The thin frame however holds a top of the line Snapdragon processor

to munch through all the design tasks you’re doing with the included

stylus. It’s also got to be one of the strongest in the line up for capturing those magic moments with a Full HD

camera onboard and Sony’s strong history of developing great lenses

and camera sensors. Sony.com, RO317

the solid choice Definitely one of the thickest phablets in our line-up, the HTC One Max sports a metal body and build quality of the highest order that gives no hint of flex. A beautifully clear screen provides some sharp viewing but the selling point of this chunker, is the fingerprint scanner on the rear. However, the speed of it’s processor (a Snapdragon 600) and its 4MP camera look a little weedy in comparison to some of the higher specs from its competition. RO280 from Amazon.com

the Girly phoNe Better known for their position in the top three notebook makers, ASUS have struck out this year with a new big screen offering in the form of the Zenphone 6. It’s available in some gorgeous colours for the girls, the most eye-catching being cherry red. Rather useful is ‘Pentouch’ technology where any stylus can be used to happily tap out messages on its sizeable 6 inch screen with expert precision. For those not quite ready to enter the phablet fray, there are also more traditional, smaller 5 inch and 4 inch versions available in a multitude of colours to suit.Price and availability TBC.

the office favoUrite Having been on the ropes for some years now, can Nokia continue to fight back with a strong entry in the phablet sector? The Nokia Lumia 1520 features a very respectable 20MP camera that, combined with its four built-in microphones, makes a great device for capturing videos of your favourite moments. But for those more focused on their work, it also comes with Microsoft Office built in so there’s no excuse for not processing that spreadsheet. Nokia.com RO 254

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New! lG G fleX

Features an OLED screen that, combined with LG’s new screen technology, producing some beautifully crisp and blur-free images.

Packs in a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor making it one of the more powerful phablets in the sector.

Has a handy rear button and a blue light on the reverse to let you know when the camera’s focused on your face. Ideal for taking those shameless selfies with the main camera.

F I N D O U T W H A T ’ S H I P & H A P P E N I N G I N G A D G E T S

Gone are the days when the humble banana was one of the few bent objects we’d hold to our faces. LG have now decided that our phablets should also be bent. The G Flex sports a curved 6 inch screen that the manufacturer argues contours around the face more

comfortably and also presents a more immersive experience when watching movies. The phone can also be flattened so there’s no need to worry about cracking its scratch-resistant screen should you happen to sit on your new bent friend. Available February for a hefty RO439

0 4 5

RoundupScreen

(Inch)

Display

(mm)

Camera

(MP)

Memory

(Ram)

Storage

(Gb)

Size

(mm)

Weight

(g)

HTC One Max

5.9 1920x1080 4 2 32 164.5 x 82.5 x 10.29 217

ASUS Zenphone 6

6 1280x720 13 1 64 166.9 x 84.3 x 9.9-5.5

200

Nokia Lumia 1520

6 1920x1080 20 2 32 162.8 x 85.4 x 8.7 20

Samsung Galaxy Note 3

5.7 1920 x 1080

AMOLED

13 3 32 151.2 x 79.2 x 8.3 168

Sony Xperia Z Ultra

6.4 1920x1080 8 2 16 179 x 92 x 6.5 212

LG G Flex 6 1280x720 13 2 32 160.5 x 81.6 x 7.9/8.7 177Ascend Mate 2

6.1 720 x 1280 13 2 16 161 x 84.7 x 9.5 202

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Classy and opulent, it’s likely to be the best drive of your life. Prepare to be entranced by the Mercedes-Benz S400L, as Kate Ginn was

car of the week

Mercedes-Benz S400LEngine: 3.5L V6

Transmission: Seven-speed Tronic PlusHorsepower: 295

0-100km/h in 6.8 secondsTop Speed: 250km/h

Price: Around RO50,000

Check this out

Ambient lighting Multifunction steering wheel Adaptive Brake with Hold

function 360 degree camera

(reversing and front) Memory seats for driver

and passenger Burmester surround sound

system with up to 24 speakers 2 x 12 inch fully digital displays Climatised seats for driver and

front passenger Rear seat telephony (optional) Eco start/stop function Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

CARS ANDINDOORS

C A R SP o s t c a r d s f r o m Y - F i I n d o o r s

There are times in your life, if you’re lucky, when you get a glimpse of what it might be like to be

seriously rich. Driving the S400L was my moment.

I was at the wheel of a RO50,000 car. Let’s be honest, it’s not something I’m likely to be in a position to buy at any point soon, if ever, in my lifetime (Note to Editor: massive pay rise please).

For a few brief hours, however, I knew what it was like to be wealthy. I drove it, I smelt it (the softest, most beautiful nappa leather) and I touched it (the glossiest of wood trims – myrtle I believe).

Yes, dear readers, I lived it for one glorious day and it was simply marvellous. Obviously whoever coined the phrase ‘money can’t buy you happiness’ had never driven the Mercedes-Benz S400L. Because I know that if they had, they would have revised their opinion pretty sharpish.

Let me be up front with one thing from the start. Without a doubt, this car is the best that I have ever driven. Now we’ve got that out of the way, let me tell you why.

It’s not just the wonderful way that it’s put together or the suspension, which makes you feel as if the S-Class is gliding down the road. Nor is it the exquisite materials that have been used for the interior or the

sublime handling, which gives the impression that you’re silkily slipping through the traffic.

No, what did it for me, the clincher, was the way that it made me feel. Call me shallow or materialistic if you want, lambast me for letting a piece of metal dictate my sense of self, I don’t care. Driving this automotive marvel made me feel like a million rials and that’s, well, priceless.

If you want me to bore you with statistics and features, then I will. It can hit 100km/h in under seven seconds and has a staggering top speed of 250km/h.

I could talk for hours about the interior alone – the wonderful cream leather and dark wood upholstery, the ambient lighting in seven shades and the digital instrument cluster.

I also loved the central command console, which enables the driver to have control of the car – from the air conditioning to music – at the flick of your wrist.

If that’s too much trouble, the voice-activated mode allows you to do things like switching radio channels or the navigation system on without having to move.

Touches like the hold function, to keep the car stationary in heavy traffic without the need for you to keep your foot on the brake, is another high-end feature, of which the S400L is packed to the

brim. Eco mode is another great little invention. It automatically switches the engine off when the vehicle is stopped, for instance in a traffic queue, for fuel efficiency and environmentally friendliness, and turns it on again as soon as you move off. It takes some getting use to but you hardly notice after a while.

You certainly don’t notice the seamless gear changes. It’s also ridiculously quiet, even at high speed.

It was time for the ultimate test for the S400L - the boss, Y’s editor, Penny. Notoriously demanding and luxury loving, she won’t accept anything remotely moderate.

She wasn’t a huge fan of the more boxy shape (while I was an admirer of its masculine yet contoured lines) but once inside, the Merc began to work its magic on her. She sniffed the unmistakable whiff of affluence and, glancing at the hand-stitched leather seats, gave a small nod of satisfaction.

My brief foray into the world of wealth was reluctantly over all too quickly and MB wanted their S400L back. The memory of it will linger for much longer. I’ve since worked out that if I start saving now, I should be able to afford one in, oh, roughly around 25 years time, by which time I’ll probably be too old to drive. Still, I’m going to start saving anyway.

They say: ‘Vision accomplished.’

We say: ‘Simply the best.’

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

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They say: ‘Vision accomplished.’

We say: ‘Simply the best.’

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Omanexpo ads-YMag_240x340mm.pdf 1 1/28/14 3:50 PM

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