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Welcome 2015!ONWARD AND UPWARDHot to TrotGET INTO THE SADDLE

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine –

your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has

to offer.

EDITOR IN CHIEFSayyida Iman bint Hamad

bin Hamood Al BusaidiCHIEF EXECUTIVE

OFFICER Eihab Abutaha

MANAGING EDITORFelicity Glover

DEPUTY EDITORKate Ginn

ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

PHOTOGRAPHER Shaquel al Balushi

CONTRIBUTORS Matt BlackwellAdam Hurrell

INTERN Deeba Hasan

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Feroz Khan

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

@ytabloid /ytabloid www.y-oman.comFO L L O W U S O N :

,

Fast forwardHello 2015 and welcome to Y’s first edition of the year on the first day of a

brand new year. It’s quite an honour to be one of the first things some might read in 2015.

We’re very privileged too that the country we all live in has some of the most stunning scenery to explore, including windswept deserts with towering sand dunes. Danger can sometimes go hand-in-hand with beauty, however, something we discovered for our cover feature this week.

In the Al Sharqiyah region for a taste of surviving the Omani desert, we saw the tragic consequences when nature reminds us of its strength. Which is why we also give you the lowdown on how to keep safe in the sand.

We also look forward to the year and tell you what to expect, in the region and the world, over the next 12 months. For anyone who overindulged during the festive period, there’s advice on detoxing and tips on how to avoid putting weight back on.

We also give you a sneak preview of the fashion styles to expect on the catwalk and in the shops during 2015. While in Outdoors, we’re hot to trot – on horseback that is.

We wish all our readers a very Happy New Year! We look forward to bringing you the best stories and features from Oman and beyond throughout the year.

Team Y

P.S. Managing Editor, Felicity, is away this week

Want to read Y on the go? Scan our digital issue here:Download any QR reader from iTunes or Google Play to read Y on the go

Team Y has been watching PK, the Indian comedy-drama film, which

has caused some waves for its subject matter, exploring Wahiba Sands,

welcoming back colleagues from the UK and finishing off the last of our

cold turkey sandwiches.

THIS WEEK…

THE BAROMETER

We had you scanning the pages of last week’s Y to find a hidden festive elf. We had

hundreds of entries. Did you spot him and win the itouch

tablet? Turn to P11 to see.

GOING UPGYM MEMBERSHIPS

Expect a clamour to join a gym as people kick off the New Year determined to

stick to their resolution to keep fit and exercise more. Globally, health club

memberships increase by as much as 50 per cent in January, according to figures.

Come February, 80 per cent will have stopped going…

GOING DOWNJUNK FOOD

Expect tumbleweed through KFC and McDonald’s in the early days of 2015 as resolute customers vow to keep off

fast food and on the straight and narrow with a healthier diet. Come next week,

they’ll be packed again.

WINNER

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

Smart device: Catch up with Y on the go by scanning the QR code below.

Ways to get your Y fix

contentsJ A N U A R Y 0 1 - 0 7 2 0 1 5

Yo u r O m a n06 Coffee With Deeba Ahmed Al Balushi

08 Voice Of Oman Issam Al Ismaily

10 News No Tax On Remittances

T h i s w e e k16 Movie Listings Into The Woods

18 This Week Soul Woman

C a r s a n d A d v e n t u r e s38 Destination Bidbid Fort

40 Outdoors Saddle Up

42 Postcard From Hot Destinations For 2015

44 Y-Fi New Year, New Gear

46 Car of the Year BMW X3

44

Fe at u r e20 Dangers Of The Desert Driving Safety

24 2015 Preview Leap Into The Year

26 Resolution Time Team Y’s Goals For 2015

H e a l t h a n d B e a u t y32 Fashion 2015 Trends

34 Health Resolve To Get Healthier

35 Beauty In The Frame

DIVORCE DEVASTATION / QANTAB EXPLORED / COFFEE WITH DEEBA / CARS / GADGETS / TASTE TEST / EVENTS

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

10

33

Fo o d a n d D r i n k29 Food Feature Detox Your Body

30 Taste Test Masala Restaurant & Lounge

28

1924

MD YWeekly 24x34 E.indd 1 12/7/14 5:00 PM

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Have you got a unique story

to tell or do you know someone

who has? Contact us to have

coffee with Deeba and be

featured in Y Magazine. Email:

editor@y-oman.com

Deeba Hasan sits down for coffee with Ahmed al Balushi, a student

studying civil engineering, who also happens to love fashion design and

has his own T-shirt range, to find out more about his twin passions

As soon as I see Ahmed arrive

for our meeting, I know who

he is. Such a flamboyant

style – chic jacket, skinny khaki

jeans, boots and hair gelled to one

side – could only be carried off

by someone with a real flair for

fashion.It’s fair to say that it’s not the

look you might expect from a

trainee civil engineer either.

But then, as I discover, Ahmed is

not your usual student or engineer.

He may be only 20, but already

he’s an exhibited fashion designer

with a show and his own designer

label, called ‘Kash5aful’.

“When I initially designed

T-shirts for myself and wore

them outside, friends and family

described them in Arabic, using a

word that means something close

to fabulous.”

It was the natural name to

choose for his own brand of

T-shirts. “It’s a mix between

English and Arabic and because

there is ‘ful’ at the end of the

name, the idea is that it means

more than fabulous.”

Ahmed’s passion for fashion

isn’t a recent affair – he has been

a fan of fashion labels and brands

from a very young age. “Growing

up in Abu Dhabi, I was looking at

people on TV, watching celebrities

walk the red carpet at ceremonies

wearing the most elegant of

designs. That stuff inspired me,” he

recalls. “I even chose clothes on my

own when I was little and went out

shopping with my parents”

Ahmed, who grew up as one of

only two boys between nine sisters,

admits his dual loves might seem at

odds, but says: “I always wanted to

become an engineer as our brain

has two sides, one is the creative

and the other is logical. I wanted to

be able to exercise both sides of my

brain equally. I don’t think I have

to study fashion to be a fashion

designer.”

So he simply combined studying

engineering at Caledonian College

of Engineering with his ideas for

funky T-shirt designs.

He took inspiration from other

designers and added his own

striking stamp.

Most of Ahmed’s T-shirts – he’s

wearing one when we meet –

feature Arabic phrases, lyrics from

popular songs and catchy quotes, all

captured in beautiful calligraphic

designs, Arabic patterns and

attractive symbols. “With most of

my T-shirts I try to create a mix

between English and Arabic,” says

Ahmed. “I recently designed a

collection for National Day. One

featured khanjars (the traditional

Omani dagger) and another had the

superman logo and the Omani flag

in the middle, with ‘Super Omani’

written in Arabic below.”

Ahmed recently held his first

fashion show at his college,

featuring both girls and boys

modelling his T-shirts. He received

a huge response to the show, where

he also joined the models on the

the runway at the end wearing

an elegant suit, just like all other

fashion designers do. More are

planned for the future.

He has quite a following already

with over 7,000 fans on Instagram.

Ahmed mostly markets his products

on social media, but also takes part

in local exhibitions. Word of mouth

has helped him a great deal.

He charges RO8 to RO9 for

a T-shirt and says it is worth the

expense. “I know that I am giving

them good quality and put a lot

of effort into every T-shirt that I

design.”His fanbase stretches far and wide

with customers not only from all

over Oman, but also Saudi Arabia,

Bahrain, the UAE and as far afield

as the UK, Germany and Austria.

His sisters also seem to make

good use of his eye for fashion. “All

of my sisters come to me for advice

on gowns or casual wear for

various occasions and I haven’t

disappointed them yet. Even

before coming for this interview,

I was shopping for two siblings

– my little sister asked me to buy

her a sweater.”

I wonder how he strikes the

balance between his studies and a

burgeoning fashion business?

“There are times when I have

to bunk off classes because I

also take orders for occasions,

which means I need to deliver the

product to my customers on time,

as I don’t want to be the cause for

ruining their event,” he admits,

but adds that his studies aren’t

suffering.As for his personal fashion

favourites, he loves brands like

Zara, Pull & Bear and Bershka.

His dream is to stage a show in

Paris, one of the fashion capitals

of the world and would love to

see celebrities like Selena Gomez,

Demi Lovato, Chris Brown, Justin

Bieber, Rihanna and the boy

band One Direction wearing his

designs one day.

As to which career –

engineering or fashion – Ahmed

might choose, it’s unclear.

“I plan to continue the balance

between my passion for fashion

and my profession in the future

and will not focus on one more

than the other, but we will have to

see what happens,” he says.

Whether it’s engineering work

or fashion design that Ahmed

makes his name in, I’m sure we’ll

be hearing a lot more from him

in the future. Ahmed al Balushi

Bring the Mediterranean home. Sway upon the sea that is ruffled with waves. Let it take you to

the shores of beautiful Italy, where you’ll find yourself lost in discovery. With Lady Design paints, this is where you’ll always be.

Discover the 2015 range of the collection at all Jotun Multicolor Centres.

Jotun. For iconic buildings. And beautiful homes.

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J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 8

SPEED THRILS BUT KILLS

correspondenceTHE VOICE OF OMAN AT THE START OF A NEW YEAR, ISSAM AL ISMAILY SAYS SELF-BELIEF IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS

NEXT WEEK: YUMMY MUMMY

Hi Y,

Speed may be thrilling, but it may also cost one’s life. Many people are in a hurry to see their loved ones after work and that hurry can cause accidents. Others find joy in driving fast, which also causes road accidents.

When I was coming back from the Y Magazine office, after collecting my entry in the “Portrait By A Nation” competition, I was shocked to see a car toppled over with people inside it. We enquired why the car had crashed and were told that the driver had been talking on his mobile phone. The driver lost control and applied the brakes suddenly, causing the car to roll.

All I have to say to all drivers is that you should not be driving fast or be talking on your phone as you may cause an accident, which may cost either your life or somebody else’s.

Regards, Irene Rose Bency, aged 12. Class VII – A, Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir

SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to info@y-oman.com / @ytabloid / /ytabloid. Impress us and the winning correspondent will receive a voucher for dinner at the Golden Tulip. Vouchers must be collected from Y’s Seeb offices in person only. For the rest of the terms and conditions see voucher.

WRITE TO US AND WIN A VOUCHER

Dinner for two at Le Jardin restaurant

/GoldenTulipSeebHotel

@GoldenTulipSeeb

Think positively during the worse and best. The key to achieving anything is to believe that you

can and you will. That’s why we dream, that’s why we went to school, university and college. We are seeking one thing: happiness.

Some might be happy with their day-to-day life; going to work, coming back home to their family, having a roof to live under and a health system that they can rely on. Some feel they deserve better and want more. Why can’t we be inventors, astronauts, artists, sportsman, visionaries, travel the world or be rich?

Do you remember sitting in the back of the car, dreaming that one day you’ll be driving? And you did it because you believed in it and once you believe in something, everything you do in your life will lead you to that point.

Follow your heart; listen to your inner voice. You can achieve anything if you believe in it and pursue it passionately. It might not be straightforward, you might fail a couple of times, but failing doesn’t mean that you should stop believing. Take failure as a learning curve; something that you should not repeat or should execute differently, but don’t stop.

Don’t seek success unethically, don’t take shortcuts to achieve your dreams, accept criticism and grow stronger. Look for friends who will support you and not demotivate you. Have faith with no doubts and the world will be yours.

Nothing in the year gone by can be called bad, as even the unpleasant incidents have given you a lesson and added to your experience.You cannot build a brighter tomorrow without coming out from the ruins of the past.Hope you are blessed with sunshine of laughter, a new beam of energy and raindrops of happiness as you step into another brand new year. Make every moment worth remembering so that

when you grow old and look back, you can enjoy it the second time. Let this New Year be the one to see the introduction of new changes that will make you a better person. May prosperity chase you wherever you go. Happy New Year 2015!

Tulsi BhattClass XI, Indian School Muscat

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2015

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 0 9

WE ASKED: “Have you got any New Year resolutions?”

DIGAN PANDYA To get fit and healthy and start playing tennis soon. A family trip with my wife and children to a Swiss mountain and to save some extra money for long, medium and short term personal financial goals. I wish you all a very happy, prosperous and peaceful New Year.

RAJ SHENOY 365 days of unlimited fun, 365 days to say you unlimitedly like someone, 365 days to show unlimited care, 365 days of unlimited things to share. After all, life is limited, so make the most of it.

ALUDINO ANDREW   My New Year resolution is not to make any resolutions at all because I break most of them and it burdens me. Having said so, I guess I’d be breaking this one, too. So, I will simply aim to do good – whenever, however, wherever, whoever.

RONNEIL SALES VALIENTE As a New Year approaches, each of us has our own resolutions that we are determined to follow. Resolution is the act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict or problem. Our New Year’s resolutions should probably include our personal finances, relationships, weight and health issues, as well as improvement of ourselves. As for me, my New Year’s resolutions are: first, to inspire and continue to show my family, true friends and relatives how much I value and love them through my deeds. Secondly, as for my occupation, to continue to be the best nurse that I can be and to provide the best quality health care services to my clients, regardless of race, religion, gender, and social status. Lastly, through my sincere prayers and own little ways, to contribute and help to achieve world peace. Have a healthy and bountiful New Year to all.

DEBATE OF THE WEEK

GVK DURGA RAVI I have no new resolutions as such for the sake of a New Year. Whenever I feel I need to achieve or do something useful or beneficial to me, my family or society, I do it right away then and there without waiting for the New Year to come. I only pray God to give me strength to achieve my goals in the right manner. Wishing the Y team a happy New Year.

PIYUSH VORA Knowledge empowers you. Hence I would like to have an opportunity to unleash the power of knowledge to make this world a better place to live. My New Year resolution is to sponsor education for at least one needy child and empower them.

AMY PALMER My New Year resolution is to follow my resolutions. Every year I make the same resolution, which is to get healthy and follow a good exercise routine and to get fit, and every year I start well, but soon it starts to disappear. So this year, I’m going to break that trend.

KUMAR VEMBU Mine is very simple: help, never hurt and learn a variety of new skills.

SUJAL SHAH New Year’s Eve has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. It’s a time to reflect on the changes we want (or need) to make and resolve to follow through on those changes. I have decided I will spend more time with family and friends. My second resolution is that I will remain fit and will take care of my fitness. I will enjoy life more than previously. It’s an important step to live life happier and healthier. I will learn something new in 2015 and try to help poor and needy people.

MADHURI SENTHIL MURUGAN My New Year resolution is to learn something new every week, whether it is career related, life related or general knowledge related. One can

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ORLIE BARTOLO was spotted with his favourite Y Magazine at home in Muscat

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never stop learning as long as one is alive and I will try to find myself, fight for myself and then realise myself. It’s a resolution not just for this year, but for all my life. I want to become the person I want to be. Wishing Team Y and all Y readers a happy 2015.

MEGHANÀ ANUP GOSHER My New Year resolution is to read less books. A little learning is a dangerous thing. Too much of it can really wreck your head.

MERZIA VAJID My resolution for the year is to be more forgiving towards people, as everyone is dealing with their own issues. I will also give more love without expecting anything in return, as expectations often lead to disappointment.

ANTHONY CARLTON To enjoy life more. We are all so busy rushing to work, school, for

appointments or meetings etc. We just need to learn to take a step back and not miss the beauty around us; the flowers along the roads, the beautiful fountains, the endless coastline and the parks.

New Debate:“Should expatriate workers

who remain in Oman illegally be allowed to leave the country without facing legal action?”

Tell us on Facebook or Twitter and be in with a chance of winning

dinner for two.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 1 0

A decision from the economic committee of the State Council of Oman rejecting a tax on remittances has come as a huge relief to the 1.9 million expats living in Oman, especially those from the Indian subcontinent, who regularly send money to their

home countries. “It is not the right time to impose a tax just on working expatriates. It’s not practical. It doesn’t go well with the trade practices. Imposing such a tax on a certain category of expatriates doesn’t meet the international agreements signed by the Sultanate with other countries. It will also affect investment prospects in Oman,” Salim bin Said al Ghatami, the head of the economic committee told a local newspaper.In November last year, the Majlis Al Shura called for a 2 per cent levy on remittances, explaining that it was a way for the Sultanate to overcome the ongoing budget deficit due to the decline in oil prices. The proposal caused a storm among the expat population, many of whom thought such a tax would be incredibly unfair and penalise the poor. In addition to this, many experts feared that if the tax came into place it would lead to an increase in black market money transfers.Expatriates send home billions of rials each year and it was estimated that if imposed, the tax on remittances would have added RO60 million to Oman’s income.

“We need to find ways to generate more income other than depending on oil revenue. My opinion is that we should promote more non-oil projects to generate income rather than imposing tax on remittances,” Tawfiq al Lawati, a member of the Majlis Al Shura told the newspaper. “[The] Government should focus on getting more returns from projects because it has invested a lot and fair pricing of gas prices is also a must,” Al Lawati added.According to a Central Bank of Oman report released in July last year, expat remittances stood at RO3.502 billion in 2013, a 12.6 per cent increase on what was sent in 2012.

NO TAXN E W SYOUR

OMAN ON REMITTANCES

Young Omani Author 2015Submit a short storyBecome a published writer*Other great prizes to be won! Open to young Omani boys and girls aged 15 - 18 years. *Conditions apply.

High-speed browsing scheme proposed

T he days of frustratingly slow internet connections in the Sultanate

may thankfully be numbered. A connection of 40Mbps could be available if a new pilot project launched by the Oman Broadband Company (OBC) in conjunction with Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) is a success.

An experiment using the existing fibre optic communications infrastructure, high voltage towers and a mobile phone station in Bawshar proved a success, and a pilot scheme is the next stage in the plan. The experiment saw the OBC decide on a path and extend fibre optic cables between the electricity transmission station, mobile phone station and Omantel Network over a

distance of around 440 metres. While the experiment was conducted at a cost equivalent to RO9,000, it resulted in an internet connection of 40Mbps as opposed to the standard connection speed of only 3Mbps.

HE Said bin Hamdoun al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications for Ports and Maritime Affairs, told a local newspaper that it was a great scheme and that it made sense to use the existing infrastructure of the power cables as opposed to digging and laying new cables that could be costly and very time consuming.

According to telecompaper.com, internet penetration in Oman is 67.44 per cent, so the huge projected increase in speed will no doubt come as welcome news to all those in Oman who use the web for business and pleasure.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 0 1 1

Amnesty brings relief to illegal workers

Expatriate workers who have stayed in Oman beyond the expiry of their visas

are in for some good news, as the Sultanate plans to offer amnesty to them shortly.

“An amnesty for overstaying workers will be announced soon,” Talib al Dhabari, head of media at the Ministry of Manpower, told a local newspaper. “This will help in regulating the labour market in Oman. It will help the undocumented and stranded expatriate workers to fly back to their home country without facing any legal action,”

Over 60,000 expat workers from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan were flown to their home countries without facing any legal action when a similar amnesty was offered from the end of 2009 until the beginning of 2011. Amnesties were also announced for illegal workers in 2005 and 2007.

Shameer PTK, is a Muscat-based social worker who was actively involved in each of the earlier offers of amnesty fully supports the latest announcement. “Offering amnesty to workers is a laudable move. I agree that some workers deliberately overstay in Oman, but a majority of them get stuck after losing valid documents or because they do not have the money to renew their documentary status.

“Others fall in the category of having fled the sponsor due to some differences.”

Y’S GIFT TO YOU – WINNER REVEALED

Did you spot him? We’re talking

about the elf hiding in the pages of last week’s magazine as part of our fabulous festive competition. All you had to do was find him for a chance to win an iTouch Vision 2 tablet – one of the essential gadgets of 2015.

The slim, seven-inch 8GB wonder comes with Bluetooth technology, is Wi-Fi enabled and also comes equipped with a front and rear camera. Not only that, the iTouch Vision 2 also has a dual core and a

High-speed browsing scheme proposed

N E W S

dual SIM. The multi-function tablet can be used in a similar way to a smartphone and can make 2G calls, meaning it is perfect for use on the go. In addition, the lucky winner

will also receive a special case to keep their

new tablet in. More than 200

of you managed to find the elf, who was

lurking on P41 by a campfire on the beach,

so we’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part.

Without any further delay, it gives us great pleasure to announce that the winner is Sarah Imran from Sohar. Very well done

to Sarah and her brother Abdullah (who helped hunt the elf). Both are keen

readers of Y Magazine. We hope you had a very

peaceful and enjoyable festive season and would like to wish all our readers

a happy New Year. We look forward to your company in 2015.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 1 2

It’s that time of year again. So what’s this New Year resolution all about then?Well, a new Year’s resolution is a tradition where people set themselves goals for the coming year. The practice began thousands of years ago when the Babylonians made promises to their god’s to repay their debts and to return anything they may have borrowed over the previous year. The Romans also made promises to their gods, most notably the god Janus, after which January is named. Medieval knights made a vow called “the peacock vow” where they promised to reaffirm their commitment to chivalry.All very nice but what is the point of it all?A new calendar year is a time of not only reflecting on the year that has passed, but also a time of looking forward to the forthcoming year. The idea of a New Year’s resolution is one that, regardless of creed, is based upon annual self-improvement.I see. So what sort of resolutions do people make?People make all sorts of resolutions, but the most popular ones are about improving your health, helping others more, being kinder to the environment, resolve any financial problems, finding a new job, getting better grades at school or gaining a new skill or qualification.How successful are people in actually sticking to these promises?It all depends on the person of course, but according to a study of 3,000 people, conducted in 2007 by Richard Wiseman from the University of Bristol in the UK, 88 per cent of New Year’s Resolutions fail – which is a shame.Er, so what’s the point?Don’t be all bah humbug. Making a resolution at least shows some intent on the part of the person. It’s a start. Are resolutions set only by the individual or can groups take part in the same resolution?Most resolutions are set by individuals, but many groups set them to be completed by the group members and lots of companies set them as well, as part of proposed policy change.Don’t say: Most resolutions fail so I won’t bother. Do say: A New Year is a great chance for me to improve an aspect of my life and I will work hard to achieve my goals in 2015.

B i t e S i z e dOUR WEEKLY SLOT TAKES A LIGHTHEARTED

LOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE OF THE WEEK.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

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

Forget Angry Birds or Candy Crush. Next time you feel like playing a game on your

smartphone or tablet, have a go at Camel Racing.

The brainchild of former art teacher turned game developer, Salim al Hajri, it could become the new addictive game in the Sultanate – once a few glitches are sorted out.

Based on the traditional Omani sport, Camel Racing captures all the drama with lots of fun on sand added in.

With curled lips and a snarling smile, the camel has to be guided round a racecourse scattered with holes, ponds and bundles of alfalfa.

“The player has to target the alfalfa and take a detour away from the excavations,” says Salim, who is co-founder of an Al Khoud-based 3D company.

The more alfalfa gulped by the camel, the faster he’ll go. Too little and he’ll start falling into ponds and holes in the ground.

To test it out, Salim’s children have been putting the game – and the virtual camels – through their paces.As to why he chose camel racing for his first game, Salim, who worked on it during his spare time, simply says: “Camel racing is an exquisite-scene tradition in Oman.”

At the moment, the game only runs on Android’s 4.3 operating system or below with problems encountered on OS 4.4. Modificiations should hopefully sort this out.

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

Relatives grieve as six bodies and wreckage from from AirAsia Flight QZ8501 are spotted floating in the Java Sea after the Airbus A320-200 vanished off radar with 162 people aboard on Sunday

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

NATO formally ended its 13-year war in Afghanistan, during which 3,485 military personnel lost their lives, with a secret ceremony in Kabul

Heavy snowfall and ice sweep across Europe, stranding thousands, leading to road, rail and air transport chaos in several countries

Regional elections are held in Yangon, Myanmar, for the first time in 60 years as a test for democracy ahead of nationwide election in November

FANCY A GAME OF CAMEL RACING?

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 1 4

G A L L E R YYOUR OMAN Y O U N G P H A R M A C I S T S

THE CLASS OF 2014 BACHELOR OF PHARMACY PROGRAMME GRADUATED AT A WHITE COAT CEREMONY AT OMAN MEDICAL COLLEGE IN BAWSHAR, MUSCAT

Welcome to our new weekly feature, bringing you astounding facts from around the world

5 most expensive diamonds ever sold at auction

British billionaire jeweller, Laurence Graff, bought this 24.78 carat diamond at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva for RO17.7 million

in 2010. The 72-year old connoisseur of gemstones claimed it was the most fabulous diamond he had

seen in his career. Mounted on a silver ring between shield-shaped diamond shoulders

it was catergorised as “potentially flawless” because it needed a slight

re-polishing. Its quality puts it among less than 2 per

cent of the world’s diamonds.

Formerly known as the Steinmetz Pink, the Pink Star was sold at auction last year for RO32 million, making it the most expensive diamond in history. New York diamond cutter

Isaac Wolf renamed it The Pink Dream, although he defaulted on payment, forcing the auction

house to reacquire the flawless fancy vivid pink diamond. According to Sotheby’s

annual report, the pink diamond is now part of its inventory

once again, valued at RO27.7 million.

The Princie diamond is considered to be the third largest pink diamond in the world and was sold to an anonymous bidder

for RO15.1 million at a Christie’s auction in New York in 2013. Discovered 300 years ago, the 34.65 carat

diamond originally belonged to the royal family of Hyderabad. Despite being the

third most expensive diamond in the world, it was expected to sell for

a price closer to or in excess of the Graff Pink.

This egg-sized 118 carat jewel was the largest diamond ever sold at auction and brought in RO11.7 million when it

was put up for sale at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong in August 2013. Speaking of the flawless diamond,

David Bennett, chairman of Sotheby’s jewellery division for Europe and the Middle East said “There are

very few stones of that size, colour and purity. It’s

extremely rare.”

The largest known fancy-vivid orange diamond went for RO13.8 million when it was put up for auction in Geneva

in November last year by Christie’s. Weighing in at 14.82 carats, the pear-shaped stone sold for about RO924,000

per carat once fees had been factored in, making it the most expensive dollar per carat coloured

diamond sold at a public sale. Pink, blue and colourless diamonds frequently

appear at auction, but orange diamonds are much

more rare.

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THE IMITATION GAME Set in the Second World War, Benedict Cumberbatch plays the role of legendary cryptanalyst Alan Turing, who brings together a group of scholars, linguists and intelligence officers and leads them in an attempt to crack the supposedly unbreakable Enigma code, used by the Nazis to encrypt their transmissions.

Bollywatch

The Woman in Black: Angel of Death

Amid the frenzied chaos of the London bombings during World War II, a group of schoolchildren are evacuated to Eel Marsh House 40 years after the estate’s first haunting. It doesn’t take long for the Woman in Black to make her unsettling presence Into the Woods

MOVIES MOVIESfelt and when several children begin to act strangely, it is up to the young teacher Eve (Phoebe Fox) and local military commander Harry (Jeremy Irvine) to save them. While the sequel fails to match the original, it is nevertheless deeply disturbing at times.

Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast

The sixth installment in the Disney Fairies animated franchise sees a new addition to Pixie Hollow in the form of the legendary NeverBeast. Tinker Bell (voiced by Mae Whitman) and the others are extremely wary of the mythical creature with a destructive reputation, although the good-natured Fawn (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) insists he’s not merely the devastating force everyone claims him to be. At only 67 minutes long it’s perfect for parents looking for a child-friendly way to fill the time over the holidays.

TEVAR Amit Sharma helms the remake of 2003’s Telugu film Okkadu, bringing together Arjun Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha in a tale of unrequited love. Kapoor plays Pintoo Shukla, a local kabaddi champion from Agra who takes it upon himself to protect Radhika (Sinha) from Gajender Singh (Manoj Bajpayee), a Bahubali from Mathura.

Brought to you by the director of Chicago, Rob Marshall, and the producer of Wicked, Marc Platt, it’s safe to say that this musical, based on the Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine 1987 Broadway show of the same name, is in the best possible creative hands.Into the Woods is a Disney film for all ages, weaving several beloved fairytale characters into an original story about a baker and his wife who have the chance to reverse a curse placed on their family by a witch (Meryl Streep).The Baker (James Corden) is tasked with tracking down a cow as white as milk, a cape as red as blood, hair as

yellow as corn and a slipper as pure as gold. This brings him into contact with Jack (Daniel Huttlestone), Little Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford), Rapunzel (MacKenzie Mauzy) and Cinderella (Anna Kendrick) and other instantly recognisable characters from the various fairytales (Johnny Depp makes an interesting wolf).Director Marshall has brought together a strong central and supporting cast that breathes a healthy dose of humour into a musical filled with fun, family favourites.

Review by Matt Blackwell

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J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 017

Avengers: Age of Ultron Joss Whedon returns to direct the second installment of 2012’s highest grossing film. Tony Stark’s attempt to jumpstart a peacekeeping programme go horribly wrong when Ultron, the self-aware artificial intelligence takes it upon himself to eradicate all humans, forcing Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr) and the all-star team of superheroes that make up The Avengers to reunite once more in order to save the world.

Fifty Shades of Grey The first novel in the Fifty Shades trilogy was released in 2011 and has gone on to top best-seller lists around the world, selling more than 100 million copies in 52 different languages. The story of the deepening relationship between college graduate, Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) and business magnate, Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan), is one film adaptation that has been hotly anticipated by many for some time.

Furious 7 After setbacks due to the death of one of the franchise’s integral actors, Paul Walker, the latest helping of the Fast and the Furious series has been slated for an April release. Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and the rest of the team are able to return home to the United States after defeating Owen Shaw (Luke Evans) and his crew in London, although Owen’s brother Ian (Jason Statham) sets out for revenge, putting everyone back in danger.

Pitch Perfect 2 Prepare for the ultimate pitch fight when the sequel to 2012’s surprise package hits cinemas this May. After their success in the nationals, a cappella group,

The Barden Bellas enter an international competition that no American team has ever won. Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson reprise their roles as the Bellas take on old rivals The Treblemakers, as well as a host of new teams from around the world.

Jurassic World It’s been more than a decade since Jurassic Park III was released, but the wait is over at last. Set 22 years after the events of the first film, John Hammond’s vision of a fully functioning dinosaur theme park has finally been realised on Isla Nublar. After a genetically modified hybrid dinosaur escapes, it falls to Owen (Chris Pratt), one of the park’s staff who conducts behavioural research on Velociraptors (as you do), to get a band of hapless visitors to safety.

Star Wars: The Force AwakensThe internet was set ablaze when the teaser trailer for the latest chapter in one of the most popular film franchises was released in November last year, but fans will have to sit tight until December for the film’s full release. Fresh from giving the Star Trek franchise a makeover, J J Abrams is on directorial duty and although details are currently lacking, the trailer revealed a few fan favourites including X-Wings, the Millennium Falcon and that lightsaber.

The Peanuts MovieCommemorating the 65th anniversary of the comic strip and perfect for anyone after a large slice of nostalgia, The Peanuts Movie marks the first time that Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of gang will make a big screen appearance in state of the art 3D animation. The world’s most lovable beagle, Snoopy, takes to the skies in order to take on his nemesis the Red Baron, while Charlie Brown embarks upon an epic quest of his own.

Jupiter AscendingThis was originally billed for release in July 2014 but was delayed until February this year, apparently to allow time to complete over 2,000 special effect shots. It should be worth the wait if the trailer is anything to go by. Andy and Lana Wachowski follow up Cloud Atlas with a new self-penned space opera that sees a down-on-her-luck janitor, Jupiter Jones (Mila Kunis) find out that her destiny extends beyond Earth, which puts her on the radar for unfriendly aliens. Channing Tatum is the interplanetary warrior ordered to save her. With some stunning and imaginative space visuals, this film is shaping up to be unmissable.

Terminator GenisysJust when we all thought we were safe, the Terminator is back. The fifth installment of a franchise that first appeared in the 1984 looks to reset the series with Arnold Shwarzenegger back in the titular role. After finding himself in a new timeline, Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney) teams up with Sarah Conner (Emilia Clarke) in order to avert Judgement Day. Expect some mind-bending time paradoxes as timelines cross and paths are changed forever.

Mad Max: Fury Road Some may say that Hollywood lacks imagination these days as sequels and reboots dominate release schedules, but when the sequel in question is to the iconic Mad Max series, they can be excused. The first film in the franchise in 30 years sees rebels Max (Tom Hardy) and Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) attempt to cross a post apocalyptic desert in order to restore order to society. Mel Gibson, who played the original Max, reportedly lost interest after the project spent too long in development.

2015 PREVIEWAs the film landscape of the coming year begins to take shape, it seems movie-goers are in for a number of familiar favourites and a few new nuggets in an interesting mix. Here are Y’s Matt Blackwell’s top 10 of the next 12 months

Coffee Time

MUSIC

FOR M

UTTS

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THIS WEEKJ A N U A R Y

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE.

WHAT TO HEAR.

Jan

16

Enjoy an evening of great entertainment and food for a great cause. Support Omani Paws, an animal welfare charity, as they raise funds to help dogs and cats in Muscat and beyond. Music for Mutts will be held at the American Club in Madinat Qaboos from 8pm. The evening includes a raffle and free drink. Tickets cost RO25, please call +968 9579 2626 or +968 9933 7922 for details.

T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

Take some time out for a drink and chat at the Women’s Guild in Oman Coffee Morning at Kargeen in Madinat Qaboos. From 10am to 12 noon. While there you can still register for your new membership card, buy some great merchandise and meet new friends. www.womensguildoman.com for details.

07

Jan

Soul WomanThe new year at the Royal Opera House Muscat kicks off with a one night only performance by the soulful jazz performer Melody Gardot. Celebrated throughout the world, the singer-songwriter will be showcasing her wonderful voice with compelling evocations of love, loss and heartache. Show starts at 7.30pm. Details at www.rohmuscat.org.om

08Jan

Love food? Then join the American Women’s Group Oman for a “Meet The Chef ” event at Raouche Lebanese Restaurant at City Seasons Hotel, Muscat. Enjoy an interactive cooking demonstration before eating a delicious three-course lunch with unlimited tea, coffee and soft drinks throughout. From 9am onwards. Cost is RO19 net. There’s a 20-person limit so hurry. More details at www.awgoman.comCh

ef P

leas

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18JAN

13Ja

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G a l l e r y M o v i e s

REVIE

W

Broadway on Ice is billed as being a veritable feast of classic show tunes paired with breathtaking choreography. Produced by Willy Bietek, who is considered to be one of the leading global ice skating producers, starring some famous

names from Broadway shows as well as award-winning skaters, the stage was set for a brilliant show.

Skating-wise, Broadway on Ice, was immensely impressive. Twists, turns, lifts, jumps and summersaults all wowed the audience at the Christmas Day evening performance. There were a couple of tumbles towards the end of Act II and a few shaky lifts but that could be forgiven and put down to fatigue, as it is a phenomenally physical performance.

After a rather sluggish start, the pace was certainly accelerated and the company ended Act I on a real high with tangible amounts of energy and enthusiasm. Act II began well, but lost its momentum with the concert segment, where the pace slowed to such a level that the audience became noticeably restless and fidgety. This whole section, in my view, added little to the show as a whole. After the pianist interlude, the dancing and fun show tunes continued. The final number, “Oh What A Night” from the musical, Jersey Boys, was a definite highlight of the evening.

It’s fair to say that Broadway on Ice is a show for those who love skating more than they love Broadway. Combining the two doesn’t really add anything extra to either of them. While the skating was a hit, some of the music – the singing in particular – was more of a miss. Davis Gaines’ messy “Bring him home” from Les Miserables and Ira Lauren’s rendition of “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” from Phantom of the Opera, were particular lowlights. There is no doubting Gaines’ talent, as his credit list is extremely extensive, and the same can be said for Ira Lauren, but it all sounded a little bit strained. Most likely caused by the busy performance schedule and stresses of travelling.

Overall, I did enjoy my time at Broadway on Ice. The skating was very impressive, but some of the vocals were really below par. This is the first performance I have seen at the Royal Opera House this season that did not receive a full standing ovation, with only a few members of the audience taking to their feet to show their appreciation as the show closed.

For details of forthcoming performances at The Royal Opera House Muscat visit www.rohmuscat.org.om

Whether equine or camelus is your thing, this event at the Oman International Exhibition Centre should be in your diary. The International Horse, Camel and Heritage Expo will feature beauty shows for horses and camels, exotic camel dances, costumed dancing horses and an extravaganza of riders. It runs until Jan 15. www.omanexhibitions.com

If you fancy celebrating the arrival of 2015 with something more than just a sandwich for lunch, why not head to the Golden Tulip Seeb Hotel for a special New Year Buffet. Dine in Le Jardin Restaurant or al fresco on the terrace. Priced at RO17, contact 2451 4444, email fb@goldentulipseeb.com or go to www.goldentulipseeb.com for more information.

01

Jan

Gol

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Broadway on IceAdam Hurrell went to cast a critical eye over the world-famous touring show that combines ice-skating and show tune hits at the Royal Opera House Muscat

Four Legged Beauties

Strike A PoseThe American Women’s Group Oman is also on the hunt for models to take part in an upcoming Sari Wrapping Demonstration. Potential models need to be AWG members and last year’s model’s are welcome to participate again. This season will be the fifth AWG sari event. It’s due to take place at Mumtaz Mahal Banquet Hall. Contact April Manning at awgvice@gmail.com if you’re interested.

26Ja

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Desertof the

It can be an unforgiving terrain where the slightest error is punished, yet the vast expanses of Oman’s deserts still hold a fascination. Knowing how to conquer the sand and keep safe is crucial, discover Adam Hurrell and Kate Ginn

Photos: Shaquel al Balushi, Kate Ginn, Matthew Herbst & Adam Hurrell

angersD

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Battered and covered in sand, the empty Hummer stands silently between two dunes.

Debris is scattered all around; a black bin bag, cardboard box of

mineral water, clothes and what looks like a sandal have been catapulted out by force when the vehicle apparently rolled. Of the young driver, there is no sign.

He is said to have died after being thrown out of the car. He wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, according to stories circulated around the campfire later on.The accident happened while Y was there, but the young man was not one of our party. It was a stark reminder of an environment that commands respect and can change at a second’s notice, like the shifting sands that make up its landscape.

“The important thing to remember in the desert is that safety should always come before fun,” says Rebecca Mayston, an experienced desert driver who works for The Guide Oman running off-road expeditions and has navigated across the dunes of Oman dozens of times. In eight years of desert driving, she has never had a major accident.

“You have to remember that you are taking part in an extreme sport, with risks that you must be willing to accept. As individuals, we should all work towards reducing these.”

No one suggests, of course, that the

THE IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IN THE

DESERT IS THAT SAFETY SHOULD ALWAYS COME BEFORE FUN. YOU HAVE

TO REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE TAKING PART IN AN EXTREME SPORT, WITH

RISKS THAT YOU MUST BE WILLING TO ACCEPT. AS

INDIVIDUALS WE SHOULD ALL WORK TOWARDS

REDUCING THESE.

young driver who tragically died last weekend at Wahiba Sands – a popular dune bashing spot – was in any way at fault. As anyone who has ever undertaken a desert crossing will know only too well, it can be unpredictable and demanding, brutal and sweet, as well as both physically and mentally challenging.

A weekend of fun can quickly turn into a weekend of tragedy in the desert. A moment of carelessness can have a high cost.

Rebecca, who leads parties through extreme regions such as The Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert in the world covering some 650,000 square kilometres, agrees: “Driving in sand is a definite skill that one has to master in order to cross through sand dunes with minimal assistance.”

As novices on the sand, we quickly realised how true this was. Wheels skid and slide beneath you, as if you were on ice at times, and your concentration cannot slip even for a second. It’s intense, draining and incredible fun, a powerful and addictive adrenaline rush like nothing else we’ve experienced.

A golden rule of desert driving is to never go into the sand with less than two vehicles, in case one gets

angersstuck or breaks down.Being part of a convoy of 60 4x4s that set off as part of a Team Pajero Adventure to Wahiba Sands organised by Mitsubishi at least gave us reassurance in numbers.

Fellow novice Chris Alexis was there, as he says, to “find out what an SUV was capable of.”Being prepared for whatever this might be is vital, according to Rebecca Mayston.

“When driving off-road one always needs to be prepared for the worst-case scenario and the inevitability of getting stuck,” she says. “It’s one thing entering the desert on the Bedouin highways – you can still get into trouble – however, cutting new paths through uncharted sand dunes most certainly brings its challenges. Getting stuck is inevitable. It happens to the best of us.”

These are sentiments echoed by Ayman al Balushi,

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 2 2

an experienced off-roader, who has been desert driving since 2009.

“Safety is of paramount importance,” he says. “I have been lucky and never had any accidents in the dunes.

“For me, the enduring appeal is that each time you drive in the desert you face a new challenge – whether it is the weather or the dunes themselves, every trip is different.”

Dune bashing is about discovering the capabilities of your car, but it is also about learning to appreciate the incredible natural beauty Oman has to offer.

It seems though, that this beauty is under serious threat from people who visit the desert and then leave all their rubbish behind. Wherever the convoy drove there were vast amounts of glass bottles, plastic bags and other detritus from weekend campouts. Rubbish was piled up as camels grazed close by.

These careless individuals are contributing to the destruction of the desert environment.

Senior Mitsubishi sales executive and seasoned off-road driver, Khalil al Oufi agrees,

saying “It makes me feel very sad [to see people] making the place a disaster, I hope people understand how to treat [the] place like their home.

Something needs to be done before the desert becomes Oman’s greatest landfill site.”

For a first foray into desert driving, it’s all about finding your feet on the sand. The route our convoy took was tough without ever feeling too dangerous. As Mitsubishi’s national marketing manager, Rajesh Sharma points out: “The track is meticulously planned with the right amount of challenges for the first timers, because we understand we cannot leave anything to chance.”

Approaching a steep dune – some towered as high as 75m – one Pajero did get stuck and needed to be towed out as its wheels spun furiously, whipping up sprays of sand into the air.

Even experienced off-roaders can come a cropper. On one desert trip Rebecca Mayston went to the aid of a car bogged in the sand only to become stuck herself, requiring a third vehicle to come to the rescue.

“We had no choice but to radio for assistance and then wait – and wait. “I am sure anyone who has been there can relate to sitting in a terrain, surrounded by sand dunes stretching out for as far as the eye can see in all directions and waiting patiently for the sight of a car on the horizon.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF YOUR SELECTED 4X4 VEHICLE

KE

EP

ON

TR

AC

KIT’S ONE THING ENTERING

THE DESERT ON THE BEDOUIN HIGHWAYS – YOU CAN STILL

GET INTO TROUBLE – HOWEVER, CUTTING NEW PATHS THROUGH

UNCHARTED SAND DUNES MOST CERTAINLY BRINGS ITS

CHALLENGES. GETTING STUCK IS INEVITABLE. IT HAPPENS TO

THE BEST OF US

● Drive with lights on at all times ● Always offer to help someone in need ● Seat belts should be worn at all times, this includes passengers in the front and the back ● Avoid walking around plant life barefoot, some creepy crawlies have a nasty bite ● Avoid plant life when setting up your tent ● If you are not healthy, have back injuries or heart issues, do not participate – a doctor/first aider is not always enough ● Think about investing in satellite communication phones, just in case they are needed

TIPS FOR SAFE OFF-ROADING

● Some vehicles hold sub tanks, if yours does not, you will possibly need a fuel can ● MUST have good quality tyres, along with at least one good quality spare ● MUST be in a good state of repair and regularly maintained and checked ● Advised to not have bumper extensions – front and back – they tend to catch the sand and are the most common damages. You can remove bumpers for the trip

● Always be sensible and patient ● Deflating your tyres increases your traction. Let your tyres down to between 15-20psi (depending on the type of car)● Drive in 4WD mode, High Range when venturing off the Bedouin road ● Only use 4WD LOW RANGE when you’re stuck ●Follow the gravity of the car, Gravity will always win! Do not turn against the direction the vehicle wants to travel. As a driver you are there to guide the car ● Gentle is the name of the game. Heavy braking and acceleration will only dig your tires deep into the sand● Maintain a safe distance between cars, and always ensure the path is clear● Keep 20 to 30 metres between cars when driving● Parking and stopping: Always stop on a firm spot. Stop your car on a slope so that gravity will help you move ● Watch cars similar to yours and note how they react on dunes. Note the speed and angle needed to conquer the dune

Please note that this list does not exhaust all possible vehicles. Check with experts (such as The Guide Oman) before you travel

Toyota ● Land Cruiser and Land Cruiser Prado ● FJ Cruiser ● Fortuna 4.0L ● Tundra

Nissan ● Patrol ● Path Finder ● X-Terra

Mitsubishi ● Pajero 3.8L

SUITABLE VEHICLES

Source: The Guide Oman

SAND SURFING... IN YOUR 4X4

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It is important to remember that the desert is a precious ecosystem. Here are a few small things to keep in mind while you are there:

● Stay on the established path, do not unnecessarily create new tracks ● Plant life is scarce in the desert, try not to drive on or destroy it ● Always ensure the path is clear before you attempt to cross the dunes ● Rubbish: No one wants to see a dirty desert or see the desert destroyed by our participation. It is each participant’s responsibility to dispose of their own litter properly

Source: The Guide Oman

/TheGuideOman

DUNE ETIQUETTE“I know for myself, it really highlighted the

security of having someone else with you.”Al Oufi has been visiting the desert for over

20 years and he highlights how essential it is to carry extra water and fuel when driving in the desert and never to venture out on your own. He also recommends taking two keys for any vehicle, in case one is lost.

When you’re in the desert, time seems to run away from you, like a fine powdered sand slipping through your fingers.

Night can fall quickly, dropping like a black velvet blanket.

As the sun slipped from view and darkness descended upon the Al Raha Camp, al Oufi sums up the day quite aptly.

“Dune bashing is a good sport. It makes you feel young and active. The best thing in the desert is that you will experience peace of mind, especially during the nights when we can see the wonderful beauty of the skies with all the stars. It reminds us that we are just tiny people in this universe.”

FOR ME, THE ENDURING APPEAL IS THAT EACH TIME YOU DRIVE IN THE DESERT

YOU FACE A NEW CHALLENGE – WHETHER IT IS THE WEATHER

OR THE DUNES THEMSELVES, EVERY TRIP IS DIFFERENT.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 24

From regional sporting events to historic

agreements, 2015 is already shaping up to be

quite memorable. Y looks into the future to see

what’s in store for Oman and the rest of the world

LEAPINTO THE YEAR

We’ve hardly had time to catch

our breath after the 12 action-packed months that made up 2014, but now it’s time to strap on our seatbelts and get ready for the ride that will be 2015.

There might not be a sporting occasion on a par with the football World Cup in Brazil that last year witnessed, but there’s plenty of mouthwatering action featuring Oman’s sportsmen and women to look forward to.

By the way, 2015 has been designated as the “International Year of Light” (IYL) by the United Nations. It seems the idea is to raise awareness of the achievements of light science and its importance to mankind.

IYL 2015 opening ceremonies will be held

in Paris from Jan 19 to

20. Feel free to hold your own celebrations in Oman.

Politically, it could be a momentous year for the Sultanate with the country balanced delicately on the edge of some issues, which could tip Oman in one direction or the other.

Europe is also poised for change and the make-up of the landscape looks to be shifting again. From today (January 1), the Eurasian Economic Union will come into effect for the first time, creating a political and economic alliance between Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

2105 will also see the European Union boosted by an extra member state as Lithuania officially leaves its own currency, the litas, in favour of the euro. In doing so, it will become the last Baltic nation to join the growing number of EU states that have adopted the euro currency.

The United Kingdom faces a general election this year (May 7) and people will also go the polls in Myanmar, Canada, Turkey, Spain, Uruguay and Somaliland.

Closer to home, could this finally be the year that the unified GCC visa comes into play? There’s been talk of it for some time – rumours surfaced several times in 2014 – but the word

DON’T FORGET THAT OMAN ALSO HAS THE 45TH NATIONAL

DAY TO CELEBRATE ON NOVEMBER 18 (IT FALLS ON A WEDNESDAY THIS YEAR),

WHEN THE WHOLE COUNTRY WILL TURN INTO A SEA OF

WHITE, RED AND GREEN AGAIN.

Words: Kate Ginn

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 0 2 5

seems to be that the six GCC

member states are now in agreement that a common visa, allowing freedom of movement between the countries, is the way to go. From January 1, new drivers will be issued with a unified GCC driving licence, the benefits of which are still unclear. The licence – which will be given out for renewals as well – will remain the same apart from the new GCC logo, the Royal Oman Police have advised.

Talk of a single GCC currency has also been doing the rounds for some time, but such a step still seems to be quite a long way off, if it ever happens at all. Oman has already indicated that it wouldn’t wish to be involved and the UAE isn’t keen either.

Don’t forget that Oman also has the 45th National Day to celebrate on November 18 (it falls on a Wednesday this year), when the whole country will turn into a sea of white, red and green again.

Hopefully better news about oil prices will be on the way soon, after Oman suffered the lowest dip in five years last month (Dec). We’ll also be waiting to hear any decisions on proposals by the Majlis Al Shura to ban the sale and consumption of alcohol in the Sultanate. The Council of Ministers has to debate this along with recommendations that shisha smoking is prohibited after midnight in cafés. With reports that an alcohol ban could cost Oman up to

RO100 million in lost

revenue per year, and as fellow GCC state Kuwait is apparently looking at

relaxing its blanket drink ban, it remains to be seen whether such a radical move could ever gain backing.

Regionally, there is hope that the bloody conflict in Syria could be brought to an end after indications from the country’s Government at the end of last year that it would be willing to participate in Moscow peace talks.

Away from the twists and turns of politics and machinations to bring about peace, the sporting arenas around the world will see some battles of a different kind.

This month, Oman’s national football team is going for glory in the AFC Asian Cup in Australia, in only their third appearance. Goalkeeper and team captain, Ali al Habsi, will be leading the team out for their opening game against South Korea on January 10. The Red Warriors will be hoping to be in the final in Sydney on January 31.

Between March 8 and 18, the Sultanate plays host to the GCC Women’s Games, which features five events – volleyball, basketball,

handball, rowing and athletics. Competitions in athletics, shooting, tennis, taekwondo and endurance horse riding will also be held for athletes with disabilities.

Elsewhere, England will stage the 2015 Rugby World Cup in September and Austria is holding the Snowboarding World Championships.

Technology-wise, we can expect the iPhone 7 (speculation has already begun) and Google’s self-driving car will be road-tested for the first time this year (road-users in California had better watch-out).

In July, NASA’s New Horizon’s spacecraft should reach the planet Pluto and its largest moon. Once there it will spend six months photographing the furthest reaches of the solar system.

As for new arrivals, we will be welcoming a second royal baby into the world, with Prince William and Kate, expecting a brother or sister for Prince George in April.

Actress Keira Knightley will become a mum for the first time this year, as will Blake Lively with her Hollwood husband, Ryan Reynolds.

Whatever else happens, it looks like 2015 is going to be quite a year, both at home in Oman and abroad.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 2 6

Kate GinnY’s Deputy Editor

For me, 2014 was a year of great highs and

lows, challenges and adventures. I sadly

lost my stepmum towards the end of the

year. Luckily I was able to spend time with

her in the final weeks. Which is why my

main resolution for 2015 is to prioritise my

life and make much more time for family

and friends. Work and possessions are not,

when it comes to the crunch, the things that

matter. Loving and being loved, spending

time with your loved ones and showing that

you care, is what life is really all about.

A new year can only mean one thing – setting out goals for the 12 months ahead. Here Team Y reveals

their promises and hopes for 2015

Felicity GloverY’s Managing EditorEvery year, I vow to not make any resolutions.

I mean, we have enough responsibilities in

our lives without stressing about a New Year

resolution that is likely to fall by the wayside

months or even weeks later. But there is one

thing I do every year – and that’s to make a

New Year’s Eve wish. The wish is always the

same: good health and happiness for all, and

world peace. Happy New Year to you all!

Matthew Herbst

Y’s Art Director

I have made a few resolutions. I need to

find more time for exercise and smoke

less. I need to lose weight and get back

into the shape that I was when I arrived in

Oman back in 2013. I also want to stay in

better contact with friends and family and

do more things that I love to do and that

make me happy, such as photography,

painting and drawing. I also plan to make

one kind gesture every day of the year,

whether it’s donating to charity, helping

an animal or even a small thing such as

holding open a door for someone.

Shaquel al BalushiY’s Photographer

I’ve had a difficult three years. In 2012 I was on

a great holiday in Thailand, but when I came

home I lost my job and ever since then, things

have gone downhill. I’m normally a very positive

person, but the past few years have been

challenging and I was beginning to become

quite negative. One day I was going through

Y and saw that the magazine needed a new

photographer, which I saw as my opportunity.

After that, my perspective completely changed.

Photography is my passion and this year I

intend to banish the negativity of previous years

through doing what I love.

Adam HurrellY’s Multimedia JournalistMy resolutions are pretty straightforward, but very important for me. I want to regain my previous levels of fitness by making a concerted effort to get out running more often. I live opposite a beach so there’s really no excuse not to get out there and run. I also want to get out and about with my 35mm and 120mm roll film cameras more often and make the most of the beauty Oman has to offer. Finally, I hope to save more money.

Matt BlackwellY’s Sub Editor

I decided to branch out with

my resolution making as we move into

2015 and will attempt to finish everything I

start this year. One of the most obvious examples

is my travel journal. I kept a diary

over six months of travelling, which I began

writing up into something of a hybrid between a

Bill Bryson book and an episode of An Idiot

Abroad. I wrote more than 20,000 words last year,

but left my journal in England when moving to

Oman, slowing progress to a halt. My journal

travelled back to Muscat with me after a

Christmas break and rest-assured I’ll

be typing away as and when the

opportunities arise.

Deeba HasanY’s Intern

My New Year’s resolution is to become more

responsible and proactive about everything that

concerns me – from organising more outings

with family and friends and putting that extra

effort into my work, to things like being able to

go to the gym regularly and cook more often.

Besides this, I also want to get into some serious

journalism and make sure I travel around a

little. I have wanted to travel to Turkey and

Switzerland with my family for a while now

and I really hope I am able to do that this year.

Felicity

Shaquel

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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

DO THE DETOXA new year is the perfect

time for a new start when it comes to your

diet. Going on a detox is a great way to cleanse

your body after a year of indulgence.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 0 2 9

Christmas has drawn to a close for another year and a new beginning is the perfect time to flush our systems clean. A good old detox provides our bodies with the nutrients it needs following all

those mince pies and chocolate.Amanda Hamilton, known as the Queen of Detox,

explains that when bodies are overloaded with toxins, the liver is unable to function properly. “An overloaded liver is linked to cellulite, weight gain around the abdomen and bloating – a sluggish liver can actually increase weight gain.” So the way to kick-start the New Year is to rid your body of all that rubbish.

A common misconception about detox foods is that they are boring, when actually they can be a lot of fun to indulge in and taste great as well. They also don’t have to be eaten in isolation – you can mix them up with other healthy foods to help make your detox diet more appealing. Here are some natural foods that can help you detox effectively when worked into your regular diet. Combined with plenty of exercise, a detox diet is the most positive way to start the New Year.

Parsley: This healthy green does a lot more good than you probably realise. It contains plenty of beta-carotene and vitamins A, C and K, which help protect the kidneys and the bladder. Classified as a diuretic herb, parsley prevents kidney stones and bladder infections by helping our bodies produce more urine.

Apples: Apples are full of essential nutrients and contain a soluble fibre called pectin. This helps remove food additives and metals from the body’s system. Apples in a fruit salad can make a tasty detox snack.

Cinnamon: Packed with both health benefits and taste, cinnamon can improve your metabolism and makes everything taste so good. It’s full of iron, calcium and manganese, which help the body process fatty acids and keep blood sugar levels stable. Try introducing cinnamon to your regular diet by adding it to a cup of tea.

N e w sT R E N D N e w R e s t a u r a n t

Dr. Zainab Jassim, General Practitioner at the Burjeel Medical Centre Oman shares her tips for a sucessful January detox. § Morning lemon juice: This kick-starts digestion and cleanses the system. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon in a cup of hot water. Drink before breakfast.§ Exercise: Aim to exercise for one hour daily, exercise increases lymph flow and circulation to help sweat out toxins.§ Raw foods: Aim to cut out the cooking process and eat mainly raw foods.§ Detox the mind: Aim for 15 minutes of meditation per day.§ Drink: Try and drink three litres of fluid daily.§ Body brushing: Doing this daily will support circulation and increase skin detoxification.§ Chew: Aim to chew each mouthful of food 10 to 12 times before swallowing.

Things to avoid§ Alcohol and cigarettes§ Milk products§ Grains, wheat, rye, barley, oats and rice§ Dried fruit § Sugar and artificial sweeteners

DETOX YOUR BODYThe festive season can be a time for overindulgence. The least we can do is make sure that we cleanse our body from the toxins come January, Deeba Hasan finds out how

Coriander: Coriander contains numerous antioxidants that help us detoxify. It also contains an antibacterial compound called dodecenal, which lab tests show is effective in killing salmonella. Coriander also mobilises mercury and other metals out of the tissue, enabling them to be excreted from the body. Try adding coriander to sandwiches and chutneys for a healthy and tasty snack.

Green tea: Green tea has several uses, but is most commonly used in detox diets because of its high antioxidant content. It is one of the least processed teas available and is known to lower blood pressure levels significantly.

Pineapples: This spikey fruit helps cleanse the colon and improve digestion due the presence of an enzyme called bromelain. This enzyme is also known to reduce inflammation and coagulation of the blood. Sweet and delicious, fresh pineapple can also be a mood booster.

Detox Plan

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 3 0

It’s not often that I walk to dinner. I usually prefer to drive somewhere reasonably nearby but a decent car journey away. This time, however, I decided to try somewhere a little closer to home. We didn’t have to go far to reach Rajas Masala Restaurant & Lounge. Three minutes by

gentle stroll to be exact.With an enviable location in the Central Business District of Ruwi, Rajas

Masala should be heaving with trade. When we turned up on a Saturday night at 9.50pm though, there was no one inside, just a lone cashier sitting in a corner of the lounge area. Mind you it was late, so perhaps everyone else had already been and gone.

My friend and I went upstairs to the restaurant area and settled comfortably on a table. It was then that we noticed we were not alone, as a family was dining behind us. We hadn’t been sat down long when the cashier from downstairs appeared to hand us menus. Clearly, he doubles up as the waiter too.

After a good browse, we decided to share a plate of chicken tikka for a starter, opting for the paneer makhni (cubes of cottage cheese cooked in gravy and butter), Mutton Masala and a mixed bread basket with four different breads for mains. Having also made up our mind on dessert, we ordered those too – gajar halwa (a carrot dessert) and gulab jamun (golden brown dumplings in sugar syrup).

Ordering over, I had time to take a good look around. With blue, purple and yellow lights, the restaurant was dimly lit, which suited me just fine. The tables were spaced at a good distance from each other, giving diners privacy and plenty of room to move around.

My thoughts were interrupted when the cashier-come-waiter turned up with chutneys and a plate of salad for our table. I wasn’t greatly impressed

T r e n d N e w R e s t a u r a n tFOOD

DRINKAND R E V I E W S

MAGIC MASALAIT’S IN A GREAT LOCATION, BUT WILL RAJAS MASALA’S FOOD AND SERVICE MEET EXPECTATIONS? DEEBA HASAN FINDS OUT

could’ve happily munched away on that without anything else.

The chapatti on the other hand wasn’t great. It had a slightly strange smell, and at 300 baisas for a small serving, was overpriced in my view.

After the mains were cleared away, I was still hungry and eager for the next course. Thankfully, Sarfaraz soon returned with our desserts. I expected my gulab jamun to be warm, but they were a little cool, which didn’t matter that much to me. The four small dumplings with the sugar syrup were tasty and not too sweet.

Across the table, my friend seemed to be enjoying her gajar galwa.

Before we left, my friend and I discussed why the restaurant was empty.

The food was quite good, the service was fine and with plenty of people living nearby, it’s in

a good spot. Perhaps Rajas Masala merely suffers from the predisposition of diners to travel further afield for their food.

As for me, I would probably go back sometime soon if I was hungry and didn’t want to drive. I just hope that Sarfaraz, the cashier and/or waiter, has other staff to help when it gets busy.

Info BoxRajas Masala Restaurant &

Lounge Central Business District, Ruwi, Muscat

Tel: 2470 7043Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs:

12pm-3pm, 7pm-11pmFri and Sat: 6pm-11pmDinner for two: RO13

Verdict 8/ 10 Service

7 / 10 Food 7.5 / 10 AmbienceGood service and

ambience, food okay

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

THE FOOD WAS QUITE GOOD, THE

SERVICE WAS FINE AND WITH PLENTY OF PEOPLE LIVING NEARBY, IT’S IN A

GOOD SPOT

with the presentation, but it was decent enough – nothing to complain about.

Our starters came immediately after the family was given their bill by the same waiter, whose name I later learnt was Sarfaraz. I absolutely loved the juicy pieces of chicken tikka, which were cooked to perfection, with the flavour brought out by generous helpings of green chutney, grated carrot and onion.

We quickly finished the starters and waited for the main course, which took around five or six minutes. I enjoyed the paneer makhni, but was a little disappointed because there were very few actual paneer cubes in the thick gravy. The cubes that were present were cooked very well, but a few more would have enhanced it.

I tried some of my friend’s mutton masala, which also seemed fine. I’m not a huge fan of mutton but the gravy was good and it wasn’t too spicy or salty. Though there was nothing exceptional about our meals, we were both enjoying them.

My favourite from the mixed bread basket was the paratha, which actually looked more like butter naan. It was warm, slightly crispy, glazed with butter and tasted great with the mains. It was so good that I

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HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 3 2

DREAM DENIM This year, you’ll definitely want

to get the blues with denim. Fashion’s fail-safe fabric was

all over the 2015 catwalks in a variety of guises – from boxy

chambray tunics to belted dresses. To be bang on trend though, try a retro silhouette

like these 70s dungarees from Marks & Spencer.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 0 3 3

STATEMENT EARPIECESIf you’re still wearing delicate diamond studs, then you need a serious caution from the style police. Why? Well earrings have recently been elevated to extreme designs. From double studs to decorative cuffs, 2014 may have been the year of the statement earpiece, but the latest trend in town is the ear jacket. Best worn with the embellished backing sitting underneath the lobe, early adopters include Rihanna and Charlize Theron. The other big trend for 2015 is the mismatched look – ideal for those who are a little careless with their bling. Alternatively, try a trendy “talking” piece like this Anita Ko earring, encrusted with 0.20-carats of miniature pavé diamonds. Y loves how it creates the illusion of an arrow piercing through the lobe. From RO815, but you can find similar affordable pieces from Splash, H&M and various market stalls.

NEW YEAR, NEW WARDROBE

1. Temper the double denim look with ultra modern tan or nude accessories 2. If you’re afraid of this year’s bold print and retro detailing, try layering natural textiles such as linen and jute. They’re back on the fashion radar as designers take a softer, more relaxed approach to modern dressing. 3. Broke? Try adapting the latest catwalk looks with old wardrobe stalwarts like a LWD teamed with leather sandals. Easy.

TRY THE TREND

Dip your toe into 2015’s statement pieces

the painless way:

SHOESIf you don’t have the legs for this spring’s nouveau

gladiator, try the mule instead. This nude

pair from H&M are versatile enough for work or

evening. We’ll be keeping ours in focus with a midi-skirt or a pair

of pale culottes. From RO28.

Wave goodbye to the old and head into 2015 with a brand new fashion attitude. Here are Penny Fray’s top trends for the New Year

THE RETURN OF THE “IT”It’s official – the designer bag is back. Nicolas

Ghesquière’s initial offering at Louis Vuitton of the Petite Malle started

it in 2014. The mini trunk was seen on the arm of

every celebrity and fashion fiend worth their weight in publicity gold. This year, however, it’s all about Loewe’s Puzzle Bag. Big and bold, it comes in all the right colours and textures, making it a sure-fire investment piece. Get your name on the waiting list now if you have a few thousand rials to spare.

FAIRYTALE FASHION Sheer, feather-light layers of chiffon and lace in barely-there hues are guaranteed to bring some ethereal elegance to your 2015 wardrobe. Everyone from Elie Saab to Rochas embraced the feminine trend with broderie anglaise, diaphanous silks and prairie-style gowns. Of course, if you don’t want to look like a blushing bride skipping through Oman’s sand dunes, try the quiet allure of this DAY Birger et Mikkelsen top. This sheer style is cut for a loose fit and is detailed with subtle ruching at the shoulders. Team it with the new style jean, adding a camisole underneath for coverage. From RO65 at Net-A-Porter.

DESERT DRESSING Effortless, elegant and endlessly practical, cargo-inspired shirts, jackets and pants have been reworked with a feminine twist this season. Think waist-defining belts and soft, slim-fit cuts in a palette of sand, tan and khaki green. We particularly liked Michael Kors’ trench and shorts combo. For those of you on a budget, try this Zara trench, now on sale online for RO30.

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 10 3 4

HEALTH&BEAUTY

Resolve to Get Healthier

Most of us have been there at some point. Promises to lose weight or tone up seem to fall by the wayside barely a month into the New Year as willpower begins

to weaken.You are not alone. According to the Journal of

Clinical Psychology, 45 per cent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions each year and weight-related resolutions top the list. Less than 10 per cent will actually see them through.

So if you’ve made (and then broken) the same old weight or health-orientated resolutions each January it might be time to focus on research-proven approaches to get healthier.

Here are a few simple tips to help you get – and stay – on the right path.

Start Well: Eat BreakfastStart the day right and it really can make things go

better. Research has repeatedly shown that people who eat breakfast tend to take in more nutrients (calcium, iron, protein and fibre), are more alert and can concentrate better. They may even have better

success with weight management. To get yourself off to a strong start, think about

combining protein, carbohydrates and low-fat dairy. Some possibilities include whole grain cereal and a high protein yoghurt, an English muffin with peanut butter, or an egg sandwich with fruit and yoghurt.Eat Rough(age): Make Fibre a Priority

Found in whole grain wheat, barley, corn and oats, as well as in fruits, vegetables and beans, fibre helps keep things moving through the digestive tract.

Fibre is also filling, providing volume with few calories because our bodies don’t have the enzymes to break it down. Fibre can also be digested and used for fuel by the 10 trillion bacteria that live in the colon and prevent numerous health conditions.Get Your Facts Straight: If It Sounds Too Good to be True...

Losing 10 pounds in two weeks only to regain it in eight makes no sense. Whether you’ve tried to go gluten-free, low carb or avoid all white foods, the chances are quite high that your efforts didn’t result in long lasting effects. What does work? A balanced eating pattern and an active lifestyle.

Fed up with falling off the diet wagon each year? Y gives you a helping hand to make it work for good

H E A LT H B e a u t y F a s h i o n

FOR MORE INFORMATION, TRY THESE RESOURCES:

● The Omani Guide to Healthy Eating by the Ministry of Health: wholegrainscouncil.org/files/OmanDietaryGuidelines.pdf

● US News and World Report Ranking of Best Overall Diets: health.usnews.com/best-diet/best-overall-diets

● Mediterranean Diet: oldwayspt.org/programs/mediterranean-foods-alliance/what-mediterranean-diet

● DASH Diet: nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/dash

● MyPlate: choosemyplate.gov

● Information on diet, health, fibre, gluten and other topics: wheatfoods.org.

There is no one perfect diet and anyone who says otherwise is typically selling a book or products promising weight loss. Registered dietitian nutritionists can be trusted to provide credible, evidence-based information that can be tailored to your lifestyle and taste preferences. In addition, eating patterns such as those recommended by the Mediterranean Diet and the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) can provide guidance on the types of foods to include in your meals.

Move It: Walk, Dance or Ride Your Way to Health

Unless you use it often (two-three times per week or more), skip the gym membership. Walk the dog, dance in your kitchen or ride your bike to run errands. And, if possible, do it every day with friends for fun; make it part of your regular lifestyle.

Make It Stick: Schedule and Track Your Progress

Make a schedule of your health goals, and keep track of progress by writing a food and activity journal or calendar. Write things down; it makes them more likely to happen. Note things like how you feel before and after meals and exercise. You may be surprised by what you learn.

HOW TO SPOT A FAD DIET IN 30 SECONDS OR LESSFad diets come and go and return again. Here are some obvious clues that a diet is a fad rather than a realistic approach to becoming healthy.

① Sounds too good or easy to be true

② Promises rapid weight loss (five to 10 pounds a week) or “miracle cures”

③ It promotes a product

④ Can only be “followed” temporarily, but is not supervised by a doctor

⑤ Doesn’t recommend a form of exercise or says that it’s unnecessary

⑥ Warns that one food or food group will make you seriously ill or worse

⑦ Makes recommendations based on pseudo-science not endorsed by credible organisations

In The

While there’s no magic way to transform your appearance overnight, you can freshen up your look through your eyewear. If you’ve worn the same glasses for years, a simple frame change can revitalise your face and style – and even

take years off of you. For example, if you typically wear simple metal frames, try picking out a

plastic frame with a pop of colour. It might seem out of your comfort zone at first, but frames that make a statement are stylish and can boost your confidence.

You can find frames for all face shapes and styles, but here are some fresh ideas for the new year from the style experts at VSP Vision Care:

● You can’t go wrong with tortoise shell and brown-toned glasses. These look great with all skin and hair colours and they could be the perfect accessory for your winter wardrobe.

● Colourful retro cat-eye frames can be worn casually or dressed up for any occasion. This style and colour combination is a great way to make a fashion statement.

● Classic round frames with a hint of colour inside provide a comfortable fit. Though the inside colouring is subtle, those with complementary eye colours will notice that these frames make their eyes pop.

Seasonal trends aside, finding the right frame for your face will make your style and inner beauty shine. The VSP style experts also offer these tips to match your face shape with the most flattering frame.

Oval: This is the easiest face to fit because it’s symmetrical. Nearly every frame shape looks good.

Oblong: Round, square or rectangular frames add width, as do details on the temples.

Round: Frames with angular lines add definition and deep colours are slimming. Create length with rectangular frames.

Square: Round, oval and slightly curved frames are ideal. Think narrow frames too. They soften the jawline while still taking advantage of your athletic look.

Triangular: Frames with design details and colour at the top help balance the face. Try cat-eye or semi-rimless frames.

Heart-shaped: Choose smaller frame styles without detail on the temples to balance the upper and lower halves of your face. Rectangular, square and aviator frames are just right.

Diamond-shaped: Top-heavy frames, like aviators, semi-rimless or cat-eye styles with details on the brow line all look great.

When choosing fashionable new frames, pay attention to proportion and fit. Ensure the eyewear fits properly on the bridge of your nose, so you’re not pushing loose glasses back into place or forcing frames with a tight nose pad area onto a nose with a larger bridge. It’s also important that your eyes are centered in the lenses.

Not only will your glasses look well-fitted on your face, but you’ll see better. According to VSP’s style experts, your optician can help you find the perfect frames and fit them to your face.

It’s also worth finding out whether you can receive savings when buying additional pairs of glasses.

If so, it might be worth purchasing an extra couple of pairs, as well as a sassier frame for when you want to make a statement.

Anything that could make you look younger, feel better and look better, is definitely worth a go in our books.

You never know, it might turn out that simply changing your glasses is the most cost effective beauty treatment you’ll try all year.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so make sure you look your best to see and be seen

J A N 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 5 1 0 3 5

H e a l t h B E A U T Y F a s h i o n

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P o s t c a r d s f r o m O u t d o o r s Y - F i C a r s

CARS ANDADVENTURES BLAST FROM THE PAST

The cannons at Bidbid still stand in defence of

the fort after hundreds of years, aiming out towards

an unseen enemy.

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CARS ANDOUTDOORS

D E S T I N A T I O N P o s t c a r d s f r o m Y - F i O u t d o o r s C a r sCARS ANDADVENTURES

BIDBID FORT

Destination

OMAN IS A COUNTRY FILLED WITH HISTORICAL WONDERS, MANY OF WHICH ARE OFTEN ONLY A FEW DOZEN KILOMETRES DRIVE

OUT OF THE CITY. ON A RECENT TRIP TO THE MOUNTAINS, TEAM Y MADE A QUICK STOP AT BIDBID FORT

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The Al Dakhiliyah region is known for its forts and small castles, located at strategic

points on the top of hills or at the entrances to wadis or villages. Recently, Team Y set off from Muscat and headed out for some adventure.

On the main road, just behind Fanja, we came across a brown road sign directing us to Bidbid Fort. The mid-morning winter light was strong but warm, so we decided to stop by for a visit. This turned out to be a good decision, as an acute angle between the sun and the fort presented a fantastic opportunity for some great photos.

Quiet and surrounded by dark brown mountains with a lot of green palm trees, Bidbid is the perfect example of a typical small town in the region and has its own special atmosphere, especially at this time of year.

Located just behind the town,

the fort is next to a wide wadi. Rising up high into the sky, the formidable building has been completely restored and now stands surrounded by palm trees and falaj systems that are filled with cold, fresh water. The main entrance is located towards the back, on the side facing the wadi, and small cannons can still be found pointing out in the fort’s defence.

The main wall of the fort is several dozen metres high and one of the most impressive aspects are the towers that cast a great shadow on the ground below.

Unfortunately it was closed as we passed by, but speaking to a local we found that the fort is usually open during the week.

Although we couldn’t get in for a wander around the interior, at a little over 50km from Muscat and with no need for a 4x4, Bidbid Fort is certainly well worth a visit.

From Muscat, simply take the main road to Nizwa along route 15. A few kilometres after the town of Fanja, the turn to Bidbid is well signposted. The fort is located at the end of the village, near a wide stony wadi, where you’ll also find ample space for parking.

GPS location of Bidbid: N23°24’45” E58°07’35”TR

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HOW TO GET THERE

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CARS ANDOUTDOORSCARS ANDADVENTURES

If you fancy a go at something different this year, why not trot along to your nearest stables and try horse riding? Kate Ginn talks to one enthusiast

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Imagine galloping across the beach in the early morning as the sun rises over Muscat and the only sounds are the thud of the horse’s hooves and birds calling out overhead.

Head down to Qurum and you might be able to do just that. Well you could if you’re an experienced horse rider. Otherwise, you’ll need to start with lessons and group classes, but the promise of a canter on the sand and in the waves is the prize to aim for once you’re accomplished in the saddle.

“It’s the most special experience,” says Rebecca Elfverson, who has ridden as regularly as she can since moving to Oman from the UK almost two years ago.

“I have done a beach ride once since being in Muscat and only twice in my life (the first time was in Barbados). As you gallop across the sand and in the shallow water you have a feeling of absolute freedom. You really feel at one with nature.

“The horse loves it. They’re excited and you can feel it. Sea riding was one of the most magical moments in my whole life.”

Horses, particularly Arabians, have long been held in deep affection in the Middle East, a tradition that stretches back thousands of years.

In Oman – Muscat in particular – there is a growing equestrian community of local and expat riders who are sharing their passion for all things equine with each other.

Rebecca, who works at the Royal Opera House Muscat, is part of this, taking time out to go riding whenever she can. Her dedication sees her nipping off before work to the stables near her home in Qurum to fit in a quick ride on her favourite horse, Beau.

“I’ve been riding since I was 10,” says Rebecca, who grew up in Australia, and is pictured below.

“Riding became my life. By the age of 14 I knew that I wanted to become a riding instructor and teach. But an accident at the age of 17 ended that dream.”

Using a zip wire across a dry riverbed, Rebecca fell off and plunged 10 metres, injuring her lower back and causing nerve damage. Doctors told her it was too dangerous for her to ever ride again and that she could end up paralysed.

“Being told I could never ride again felt like my world was ending. This was the passion that I lived and breathed.”

Yet 13 years later, Rebecca is back in the saddle and enjoying life as a horse rider again following extensive chiropractic treatment in England, which allowed her to get back on a horse.

Since moving to Muscat, she has become a regular visitor to Qurum Equestrian Stables and a new set-up at Barka, reflecting the rising interest in riding among the community.

The stables have a mix of horses, Arabians of course, and larger, stronger breeds imported from Ireland. There are also tiny high-spirited Shetland ponies for children to start on.

“Most of the riding is in the city, so it is a bit limited,” says Rebecca,

O U T D O O R SP o s t c a r d s f r o m Y - F i C a r s

who is head of costume, hair and makeup at the Royal Opera House.“At the moment there aren’t many opportunities to ride out and see

Oman, but hopefully that will change in the future.“I would love to take a horse and have a big old gallop through the

desert.”Most novice riders need to take lessons and then start with classes

before even thinking about venturing out. Classes cost around RO15 for group sessions with a qualified instructor.

There’s a mix of expats and Omanis (mostly young adults, teenagers and children) who go riding.

There is a small equestrian community in the Muscat area and riders share information and details on social media. Showjumping competitions are held regularly during the cooler winter months and there are also chances to do dressage.

Rebecca says that riders do form a close bond with horses they ride often. One of her new favourites is a mare called Maggie who is stabled at Creo Equestrian in Barka.

“Horses are very sensitive animals,” says Rebecca. “They tune into your emotions and you tune into theirs.

“I had an Arab horse as a teenager and I was closer to him than my family. We knew each other’s emotions – he knew when I was having a bad day and I knew when he was having a bad day – we would feed off each other. I went through my terrible teenager years with that horse.

“At Qurum I have just clicked with one [Beau]. We challenge each other to do better.”

As well as being therapeutic – riding is perfect to blow away the stress of a bad day – it’s also good exercise and can be very social.

“After a hard week or month when we’ve been busy with shows, there’s nothing better than horse riding,” says Rebecca. “I feel very happy when I’m with the horses.”

● Qurum Equestrian StablesContact Stables Manager Astrid Arapakis on +968 9942 2401

● Creo Equestrianwww.facebook.com/creo.equestrian

● Qurum Equestrianwww.qe.hashimani.com

GET RIDING:

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CITY SIGHTSGardens by the Bay is a key attraction in Singapore and

was crowned World Building of the Year at the World Architecture

Festival 2012.

CARS ANDADVENTURES

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P O S T C A R D S F R O MD e s t i n a t i o n O u t d o o r s Y - F i C a r s

Top Country: Singapore may come as a surprise inclusion for some, but the sovereign city-state and island country marks its Golden Jubilee this year and is set to celebrate 50 years of independence in style. More than 50 per cent of Singapore’s area is covered by greenery, which blends with skyscrapers, rooftop pools and penthouse bars to create an incredibly beautiful and modern garden state. The country is fast becoming known for its fashion and dining scene and 2015 will see the addition of the National Art Gallery and the Singapore Sports Hub, which will host this year’s Southeast Asian Games. In addition, there improvements planned for Changi Airport, which was named the world’s best airport in 2014. A visit to one of Singapore’s 50 parks and four nature reserves is a must for any visitor, while Marina Bay and its 3.5km waterfront promenade has become an entertainment hub for all the family with integrated resorts, theatres, parks, restaurants and bars. Be prepared to spend though, as Singapore is wildly expensive. The country is super-clean and litterbugs can face on-the-spot fines.

Top City: The capital of America, Washington DC is another list-topping inclusion that will be marking an anniversary this year. This time it’s the 150th anniversary of the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, who was shot by John Wilkes Booth at the city’s Ford’s Theatre. The president’s now famous top hat and the pistol that fired the deadly shot will both be on display as part of the remembrance events. Eleven of America’s Smithsonian Institution museums and galleries can be found on the National Mall in Washington DC, while the Capitol Building, the White House, the National Archives and dozens of famous memorials never fail to draw visitors in their thousands. If history and heritage isn’t necessarily your thing, the city also offers a vibrant bar and restaurant scene and is becoming renowned for its wide variety of ethnic eats.

Top Region: Visiting a region as opposed to one certain city or resort is great because it enables travellers to get a wider sense of a country’s cultural offerings. The Gallipoli peninsula in northwestern Turkey, close to Istanbul, was the site of a major Allied campaign in the First World War and consequently offers many battlefields and monuments to visit. Troops first landed at multiple locations on the peninsula in 1915 and the Turks will be commemorating the 100th anniversary with several events and parades. Going back even further in time, the region is the reported site of the ancient city of Troy, with the ruins – complete with reconstructed wooden horse – open to visitors. The town of Eceabat is also found in the region, offering the chance to visit the fortress of Kilitbahir. However, it’s not just the history buffs who are catered for in Gallipoli, the area is also rich natural beauty and boasts stunning vistas ranging from green pine forests to sea views.

Best Value destination: Following a revolution in 2011, Tunisia was blighted by travel warnings, but these are slowly being loosened as political stability returns and the Government looks to revive the country’s tourism industry. As a result, prices will remain low and crowds relatively few, giving those who do travel to the country the chance to visit the incredibly compact and cosmopolitan city of Tunis, with its souqs mosques and museums, amid a relaxed atmosphere. The country is also home to numerous set locations from the Star Wars films, as well as Roman remains in the north of the country. In short, it is North Africa’s complete package.

HOT DESTINATIONS OF 2015Y recommends

A n e w y e a r m e a n s a w h o l e n e w s e t o f d e s t i n a t i o n s t o d i s c o v e r . A s t h e w o r l d s h r i n k s t h a n k s t o w i d e n i n g g l o b a l t r a v e l , t h e r e a r e v e r y f e w p l a c e s t h a t a r e o u t o f r e a c h t h e s e d a y s . F u n n i l y e n o u g h , i t ’ s s o m e o l d f a v o u r i t e s

t h a t a r e b a c k i n f a s h i o n a s t h e t o p d e s t i n a t i o n s t o v i s i t i n 2 0 1 5 , a c c o r d i n g t o L o n e l y P l a n e t .

Fo u n d e d m o r e t h a n fo u r d e c a d e s a g o b y m a r r i e d c o u p l e M a u r e e n a n d T o n y W h e e l e r , L o n e l y P l a n e t h a s s i n c e g o n e o n t o b e c o m e t h e l a r g e s t t r a v e l g u i d e b o o k p u b l i s h e r i n t h e w o r l d . T h e c o m p a n y ’ s f i r s t b o o k l e t , A c r o s s A s i a o n t h e C h e a p , w a s w r i tt e n b y t h e c o u p l e i n t h e i r h o m e , b u t n o w a d a y s t h e c o m p a n y e m p l o y s a s t a ff o f 2 0 0 a u t h o r s a n d h a s p r i n t e d m o r e t h a n 1 2 0 m i l l i o n b o o k s i n 1 1 d i ff e r e n t l a n g u a g e s . W e h a d a p e e k i n s i d e t h e i r r e c e n t l y r e l e a s e d B e s t i n T r a v e l 2 0 1 5 t o u n c o v e r t h e m u s t - s e e d e s t i n a t i o n s o f t h e c o m i n g y e a r .

WASHINGTON DC, US CAPITOL BUILDING

ANCIENT THEATRE IN TROY,

TURKEY

SIDI BOU SAID. TUNISIA

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

Y - F IP o s t c a r d s f r o m C a r s O u t d o o r s

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NEW YEAR, NEW GEAR

HUSH–A–BYE BABY HUSH HELD A KICKSTARTER CAMPAIGN IN ORDER TO ATTRACT INVESTORS AND GET THEIR WIRELESS NOISE CANCELLING EARPLUGS INTO PRODUCTION. THE CAMPAIGN ENDED SUCESSFULLY LAST WEEK WITH $0.5 MILLION DOLLARS RAISED, SO EXPECT THE PRODUCT TO BE RELEASED LATER THIS YEAR. WHETHER IT'S TRAFFIC, SNORING OR JUST LOUD NOISE THAT YOU WANT TO BLOCK OUT, THE TECHNOLOGY BUILT INTO HUSH MEANS YOU'LL SLEEP WELL. WORRIED ABOUT NOT HEARING YOUR ALARM CLOCK OR MISSING IMPORTANT PHONE CALLS? DON'T BE, AS HUSH COMES WITH A NOTIFICATION FILTER, WHICH ALLOWS YOU TO LET IT KNOW WHAT NOISE YOU DO WANT TO GET THROUGH. BEST OF ALL, NOTIFICATIONS COME THROUGH YOUR EAR PLUGS, ENABLING THE REST OF THE HOUSE TO SLUMBER ON. IF YOU STRUGGLE TO SLEEP, HUSH CAN EVEN PLAY SOOTHING SOUNDS TO HELP YOU NOD OFF AND IF YOU MISPLACE YOUR EARPLUGS, THE INBUILT TRACKER WILL FIND THEM THROUGH THE APP. CHECK IT OUT AT HUSH.TECHNOLOGY. PRICE TO BE CONFIRMED.

It's time to get kitted up with smart technology and there will be plenty of gadgets to choose from in 2015, discovers Matthew Herbst

EDITOR’S PICK

SMALL BUT BIG IDEA

The AAXA LED Pico Pocket Projector may look diminutive, but it packs quite a punch. This neat portable device lets you watch videos wherever you want. Plug it into your computer, smartphone or tablet to watch your favourite videos and share your photos. The Pico can even manage a presentation at a business meeting with a larger resolution, proving that good things do in fact come in small packages. It's also Apple Mac and PC compatible. RO70 at amazon.com

SATELLITE EXPLORER

The InReach Explorer is perfect for keen dune bashers worried about losing phone signal in the case of an accident. This clever device can pair with your phone and send and receive texts from anywhere on earth via the Iridium satellite network. It also functions as a navigation device, allowing friends and family to track your progress online. Should anything go wrong, the Explorer is capable of sending an SOS to an international emergency response centre. Prices start from RO145.91 at inreachdelorme.com

DESERT DANCINGIt's all about being outdoors at this time of year and if you want to share your tunes with friends while you're out and about, then the SyrenPro is for you. This wireless, weather resistant Bluetooth speaker with TrueWireless Stereo pairing, allows you to create your own wireless stereo system using a second speaker. The rechargebale battery provides up to four hours of wireless playback, but when indoors, the speaker can

also be powered from the mains. SyrenPros provide 360°

sound and work with most Bluetooth enabled devices. Available from iluv.com for RO38.

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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

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NEW OCULUS RIFT

App of the Week

FOR THE KIDS The Leap TV gaming system is perfect for little ones who love to play activity games. Ideal for kids from three to eight years old, Leap TV will get them burning off energy as the games integrate different motions as part of the action – they'll be jumping, dancing and much more. It's also a helpful educational tool that can teach about reading, science, mathematics and problem solving, making it ideal for when parents need some down time. With hundreds of gaming titles, videos and downloads available, the kids should never be bored again. Available for RO58 from leapfrog.com

YELP ME The convenient app Yelp Monocle uses your smartphone’s GPS and compass to display markers for nearby restaurants, cafés and other businesses in real time, each individually tagged with the service’s user-generated ratings and reviews. If you sign up for a Yelp account, the App will additionally provide directions to businesses your friends have recently checked in at. Free for iOS, Android and Kindle users.

WEB WAVES

Being able to stream radio beyond our own borders can be fun and with a Primo Wi-Fi Media Streamer, you can do just that. The latest addition to Grace Digital's market-leading line-up delivers access to over 50,000 radio stations, podcasts and on-demand content directly from the internet and can also steam files from a PC or Mac straight to the users' existing stereo or powered speakers. Primo can be set up within minutes by simply connecting to Wi-Fi, giving instant access to many online services. RO58 from amazon.com

Mark Zuckerberg's recently acquired company, Oculus VR, will launch the next generation of virtual reality in 2015 in the form of the Oculus Rift. Players' view of the game will no longer be restricted to a screen, as the Rift lets you step inside your favourite virtual worlds, using custom technology to monitor every subtle head movement in real time in order to provide a 360° view, meaning you'll be able to look around, just as you would in real life. A stereoscopic 3D view also gives excellent depth and scale. Currently, you can only buy the Oculus Rift Development Kit 2 if you’re a game developer, but don’t confuse this with the actual consumer item that is about to hit the market. Launch date and price are yet to be confirmed. Check it out at oculus.com

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Adam Hurrell takes the BMW X3 for a spin and finds it’s a great car, but not good enough to set the world alight

BMW X3 Specifications:

Engine: 2.8i twin turbo 4-cylinder

Transmission: 8-speed semi-automatic

Top speed: 210kph0-100kph: 6.5 seconds

I have to admit that I am quite a fan of soft off-roaders like the BMW X3. I like the idea that you can own a car that

drives like a normal car but can, when the going gets tough, get the owner out of sticky situations.

The BMW X3 entered the market back in 2003 and is marketed as a compact SAV, or sports activity vehicle, which is actually different to an SUV, although the differences aren’t immediately obvious. All very complicated I know.

The X3 had a major face-lift in 2010 and is being changed again for 2015. There are alterations to the exterior, with a slightly more aggressive front-end, new headlamp units and a redesigned kidney grille. There are also some subtle changes to the interior trim.

The version I drove, the new 2.8i petrol with an 8-speed semi-automatic transmission, certainly had enough power to keep up with the Muscat traffic without any problems and it performed very well on the highway. My test drive route also included a bit of rough track driving and the X3 handled the change of surface with ease. The car felt planted and secure at all times and I never got the sense the X3 was out of its depth or struggling.

However, it’s important to note that there are no manual overrides for the xDrive system beyond the driving modes that come as part of the car’s software set-up. It does not come with low-range or a rear or central diff-lock.

But then the X3 honestly isn’t designed for the sort of driving that would require them. If you need to drive down a slightly rough track to get to your weekend campsite then the X3 will handle it – just don’t attempt any serious off-road heroics.

The xDrive system is BMW’s four-wheel drive system and it’s immensely clever. Many compact SAVs have a default power distribution set-up of a 60/40 split between front and rear, which only changes when selected by the driver. What makes the BMW system different is that it constantly measures the traction of each wheel and distributes power and torque accordingly automatically – allowing for minimal driver input and maximum peace-of-mind.

The driving position and interior is typical BMW, with high quality materials and a solid feeling. It did take quite a bit of adjustment for me to get comfortable however, and there wasn’t quite enough space for my right foot when the cruise control was engaged.

Changing manually via the paddles behind the steering wheel, with the car in Sport mode is definitely the best way to make the most of the 245bhp on offer. As is so often the case these days, the changes were seamless.

There’s plenty of boot space and the rear seats have enough legroom for children and teenagers. Although the car is spacious, if adults are going to be in the back on a regular basis, I personally would recommend looking at the BMW X5. Body roll was well controlled thanks to the four springs and multilink rear suspension set-up and the X3 drove much more like a normal hatchback than its looks initially suggested.

Visibility is good and with the sunroof open the interior feels light and airy. The BMW X3 is a highly competent family car with some off-road ability, that can certainly step up to the plate when conditions become more strenuous. It drives well, has room for five plus their luggage and can get up that very steep kerb without too much trouble.

The trouble is that the X3 is very forgettable at the same time. There isn’t really any part of it that gets me excited – which is a shame.

CARS ANDADVENTURES

C A R SD e s t i n a t i o n P o s t c a r d s f r o m O u t d o o r s Y - F i

xDrive traction system Cruise control Parking sensors and

reversing camera Leather interior Adaptive LED headlamps Driver information system Multiple driving modes Sunroof

They say: “Bring on the next

adventure”

We say: “Very good. Very

forgettable. ”

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