N O V E M B E R 24 / I S S U E 2 5 8 0 1

JAN

9 – 1

5 •

ISSU

E 252

• W

EEKL

Y

Your top guide to the best of oman, everY week

HOLIDAY HITS

JAGUAR F-TYPE

WIND POWERP

LU

S!

JUN 19 - 25 / ISSUE 325 • WEEKLY

32 40 46

DESTINATION: Niswa FortBEAUTY: Are costly creams worth the price?

News: NO-SHOW NANAUK 10

OutdoorsFashion Car

POOCHY’S PICKS / WORLD CUP PREVIEWS / POSTCARD FROM CAMBRIDGE / HI-TECH WEATHER / OMAN’S SEAS

Sweet Mamas mUScAT’S NEWEST bAkING SENSATIONS

Free!EVERY THURSDAY

NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR

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

Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing &

Advertising LLC /Y is a SABCO Media product.

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

enquiries, please email info@y-oman.com

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 Busaidi

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Eihab Abutaha

CONTRIBUTING EDITORFelicity Glover

SECTIONS EDITORKate Ginn

CONTRIBUTORTom Robertson

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki

ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Feroz Khan

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

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

,

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

Smart device: Catch up with Y on the go at y-oman.com/current-issue

Ways to get your Y fix

Fast forwardAs the World Cup continues to enthrall fans around the world, Team Y has

switched its focus closer to home to look at “Brand Oman”.Aside from the no-show by Nanauk, the biggest news this week was the

announcement that “Brand Muscat” was getting a makeover, with the city set to undergo a major transformation by the end of 2016. But tourism officials have their eye on an even bigger prize: the Sultanate itself.

We look at what it takes to brand a country on a global platform and how officials are planning to transform Oman into a unique destination for different budgets – and we even have a few ideas from you, our readers.

Our coverage of the World Cup continues as Poochy the Pet Predictor struggles to make a purrfect call, although her choice of the Netherlands over Spain was spot on – and a win that not many foresaw.

In fashion, learn how to pack light for your summer holiday but still look chic. And while you’re at it, don’t bother packing expensive skincare for your break – their High Street counterparts can do just as good a job of keeping your skin looking as luscious as their luxe sisters.

TEAM Y editor@y-oman.com

Team Y has been ogling the gorgeous new VOX MAX screen at City Centre Muscat,

eating top-notch grub at a new restaurant and scoffing cupcakes.

THIS WEEK…

WINThere’s a new cake shop in town and

it’s teamed up with Y to offer our readers a fabulous prize. Every week

until the end of the year, Cake Gallery is giving away a RO10 voucher to

spend at its new Mawaleh café and bakery, which sells an array of edible

delights from crêpes and ice cream to sandwiches and salads, along with

coffee and smoothies. To win, answer the question,

‘The world “crêpe” originates from which country?’ Send your reply, with

your name and contact details, to editor@y-oman.com by June 23.

Good luck!

GOiNG UPCATNAPS

No, we’re not sleeping on the job here at Y Magazine but new kitten

on the block Ally may well be. At just five weeks old the little blue-eyed Himalayan adopted by Y’s

contributing editor is quite possibly the cutest cat Team Y has ever laid

eyes upon. She’s certainly not in need of any beauty sleep.

GOiNG DOWN

HOLIDAYS TO PORTUGAL

Lisbon and the Algarve are set

to suffer one of the worst

summers on record as tourists stay

away from a nation that, like their neighbours,

Spain, took an absolute drubbing in their opening World Cup game.

Travellers won’t touch the country with a barge pole after being hammered 4-0 by Germany.

contentsJ U N E 1 9 2 0 1 4

Yo u r O m a n06 The Big interview Jaana Raisanen

08 Voice Of Oman Karima Farid

10 News Storm In A Tea Cup

Fo o d a n d D r i n k28 Food A Piece Of Cake

30 Food Review On The Rocks

T h i s w e e k14 43 Objects Oman’s Seas

18 This Week Into The Blu

c a r s a n d A d v e n t u r e s37 Destination Nizwa Fort

40 Outdoors Kiteboarding

42 Postcard From Cambridge

44 Y-Fi To The Extreme

46 Car of the Week Jaguar F-Type

30

HOT SUMMER SPECiAL – WHERE TO GO / WHAT TO DO / SURViViNG THE HEAT / COOL FOOD / SiZZLiNG FASHiON / MiNi ADVENTURE / DESTiNATiON

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE

44

20

H e a l t h & b e a u t y32 Fashion The Great Getaway 34 Beauty Skin Deep 35 Style Counsel Barbra Young

10

Fe at u r e s20 Big Brand Selling Oman

24 World Cup Poster Pull Out Schedule 26 Pet Predictor Poochy Picks26 Game Reviews World Cup So Far27 Football Cyclone World Cup Fever In Oman 27 Game Previews Ones To Watch

33

18

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 6

Tell us about your career so far. I have 25 years of international experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, of which roughly one third is in operations management, a third is in project management and another third in training. Before arriving in Oman, I was working as a project manager for an EU project dealing with tourism product development for SMEs in Finland and Estonia for two years. I have worked as a general manager for hotels in Zanzibar and Amsterdam, as well as a group training and development manager in the Maldives. My previous positions include a training and marketing adviser post with the United Nations Development Programme in Tanzania, an international relations manager position for a training institute in Finland and several room division management positions, to name a few. What attracted you to the tourism sector? As I child, I lived with my parents in Nigeria for five years and I had friends from around the world and spoke English fluently. The hospitality and tourism sector was a natural choice later for my studies as I wanted to experience new cultures. I actually first tried the sector by working a couple of summers in holiday villages in reception and found out that I really enjoyed the buzz. You were working in Finland before. What prompted you to move to Oman? Cold, dark and depressing winters in Finland… that’s one part, but another is that before Finland I was managing a resort in Zanzibar where I was intrigued by my exposure to the Omani culture. That experience left me wanting to know more about Oman. How does the Omani way of

life and working differ from the Scandinavian? Here in Oman people come first, then work – which I tend to forget – and then often go directly to business without pausing to really connect to the person and their feelings. I hope I am still forgiven as I must often seem very rude for being too direct. Omanis also have a lovely way of putting their words very poetically, whereas Finnish people tend to be short and not so sweet. Finland is only now beginning to realise the importance of networking, which in Oman is absolutely essential. Give us the lowdown on Oman Tourism College. We have about 600 students studying different programmes, including foundation, diploma or Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management (awarded by the Dublin Institute of Technology), as well as in professional or vocational short courses. Almost all students are Omani, but we do accept all nationalities. We work hand in hand with the tourism and hospitality companies to assist them in their human resources requirements. Tourism is growing rapidly in Oman. What are the challenges of attracting young people to work in the sector? All the general managers and human resources managers that I have met so far have had the same

issue – they are really struggling to get Omani staff. Thus, our students are in much demand. Again, all companies offer fantastic career opportunities to ensure that the new recruits to grow with them to managerial positions later on. But still, not all of our graduates choose this industry when they finish their diploma or degree, but rather opt for another service-related sector or the government. Some of the reasons are easy – like the pay or the working hours, but others are a bit more complex – such as the poor image of the

industry. In Oman, a proper image campaign really is needed in order to portray the sector as it is – a reliable, serious industry where Omanis, men and women, can have a respectable career with fantastic career growth opportunities. What plans do you have for the college in the future? Increase the range of professional courses and

customised courses for the industry as well as introduce two new bachelor level programmes in September 2014: event management and tourism marketing. We have recently

started to offer courses to the general public in languages and culinary skills, as well as introducing different forms of tourism such us sports tourism, interpreting cultural heritage, adventure tourism, geotourism and culinary tourism. You’ve worked all over the world. Which is the best place you’ve been so far and why? I realised the other day that I have not exactly worked in hardship destinations – the Maldives, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Amsterdam, Sardinia and Lapland in Finland. All these places feature in exclusive tour operators catalogues, so I am tremendously lucky. I must say that I carry all of the places (and the people) in my heart. It is not really possible to say which would have been the best without doing injustice to the rest. And now I am in Oman, so this is the best place!Describe yourself in four words. Curious, confident, ambitious, positive (well, most of the time). You’ve only been in Oman for six months, but have you managed to get out and explore?Yes, and the country is so beautiful. Before Oman, I had never been to the desert, so it was an incredible experience to visit Wahiba Sands in December. I have been to Jebel Akhdar twice in the last month and that was both exhilarating and refreshing as the air is so much cooler there. I am now slowly gaining more confidence in driving by myself as I got a car a week ago, so I am eager to explore more.

YOUR OMAN

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

What are the 3 most important things in your line of Work?

● Working closely with the tourism and hospitality industry● Working together with the instructors to develop the quality of training together● Being passionate about the tourism and hospitality industry

HOSPITALITY QUEEN

J A A N A R A I S A N E N , D I R E C T O R O F Q U A L I T Y F O R P R O F E S S I O N A L A N D V O C AT I O N A L S T U D I E S , O M A N T O U R I S M C O L L E G E

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 8

We asked: ‘Was Brazil right to spend an estimated RO5.39 billion on the football World Cup?’

RAzI Al EIT   First of all, Brazil is not a poor country. It’s just full of corruption. I think the amount of

DEBATE OF THE WEEK

HATS OFF TO MOE

correspondencethe voice of oman Make childcare a priority says Karima Farid

NExT WEEK: JANE JAFFER

money spent hasn’t been done entirely by the government of Brazil. The country was chosen because it has many stadiums.

DANIEl MIRANDA PAMBuENA   Brazil should focus on its programs for work and schools.

PRANAv ASHAR Practically speaking, events like these drain the economy because the cost is always underestimated, which increases public debt.

RAKESH PINTO A mixed opinion. If Brazil had not spent so much, it wouldn’t necessarily have meant that the money would have been used for the

Dear Y,I sincerely

appreciate the stringent action taken by the Ministry of Education (MoE)by shutting down six private schools in the Sultanate which failed to meet the Ministry’s set standards.

There should be no place for such sub-standard schools in Oman. Educational institutions cannot be allowed to be run like home businesses just for the sake of making money.

However, I am sorry to state that the teaching standards of some of the community-run schools are also said to be below standard and parents complaints

and grievances are not given

any kind of importance by the school management committees.

Will the MoE authorities take the same kind of strict action against these schools and take them to task over this matter?

Mohammad Osama Rawat, Ruwi

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

It really worries me when schools and nurseries are shut down.

I begin to wonder how these educational facilities were actually allowed to function in the first place.

The typical mother, working mum, stay-at-home mum or businesswoman all sometimes need to leave their children in a safe environment, and there are usually only a few solutions: get a nanny, leave them at a nursery or stay at home on unpaid leave.

Years ago, things were different. Every decade has had its advantages and disadvantages, but support from family members, neighbours and even extended family appeared to be stronger back then. Today, it’s quite hard to leave your child anywhere without a carer’s support.

Though I’m blessed with an amazing family to support me and my child, this isn’t the case for many others. Finding a good nanny isn’t the simple task it appears to be. I am

still #TeamNoNanny until I find someone good.

As for nurseries here, apart from the handful of good ones, what about the rest? Do specialists oversee them and are the correct people hired to watch over our children?

One solution is for every company who hires women to have an in-house nursery or crèche – equipped with certified childminders – to care for their employee’s babies or children.

A program should be implemented at all companies and government offices that makes it less stressful for working mothers and fathers. And a similar scheme should be put in place to cater for our schoolteachers, nurses

or similar. I call upon every woman in power:

you are a daughter of this nation, so together let’s raise awareness on where we are on this incredibly important matter and try to find a solution for how we can take this forward – for us today and our children tomorrow.

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

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

New debate:What will you be doing for

Ramadan?Tell us on Facebook or Twitter and be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.

SHERISE ALEJANDRO (2) was spotted with her favourite Y Magazine at Sultan Qaboos University Staff Club

THIS IS YOUR PAGE! Just send us your picture

with the free Y magazine or pose with our photographer

and we will publish it on this page

Send it to:info@y-oman.com

country’s development. Events like this have to happen and will happen in the future irrespective of the hurdles. But for me, RO5.39 billion sounds too much. Surely a lot of this could have been avoided.

BRYAN HIBBERT   I don’t think we’ll be able to answer this question for many years. We won’t know whether the investment has been worth it until we see how much Brazil makes back from the games and whether the Brazilian public get their money’s worth from the new transport and stadiums. I’d be surprised if they managed to make it worth the money given how much has gone into it.

NATE KING It’s a disgrace. Kids are living in sewers and people are living on the street while the footballers run around the pitch with bloated pay packets.The money spent on the stadiums could have built hospitals and schools. It’s scandalous that they should have spent so much money on the tournament.

SuDHEESH PAl If we only talked about saving money then there won’t be any entertainment in the world. Protesters should stop everything and now enjoy the games.

HINA KAuSAR I guess people around the world come to watch football matches and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity so giving the best to the crowd is not a bad idea.

AMBREEN JAWAID Football is a priceless game, so we should just enjoy it and appreciate Brazil’s work.

SAuD Al lAMKI In theory, they should make that money back, and more, which is good for the economy and local people as the money will trickle down to them. Hotels, restaurants, convenience stores, private transport, advertising and promotional services all stand to gain. But if the locals don’t make money, then yes, it’s a waste.

YuSuF FAROOquE Yes – it’s not called spending, it’s called investing. The World Cup will provide great opportunities for tourism, hotel revenue and employment for many people.

SYED BOKHARI Brazil is the centre of football. RO 5.39 billion looks like a huge amount of money on paper but this tournament will make double that after the event.

JACquIlINE PAIvA CORREA Football has been the pulse of Brazil, so it’s not a bad decision to spend the money.

vIJAYAlAKSHMI SHETTY Until the country wipes out hunger and poverty, it is indeed a sheer waste of money unless they can raise the quality of life for their population, which rarely happens.

JERRY AquINO I’m sure they will get enough money in return, so they might as well use that money to help the poor in Brazil.

CATCHA ANTONIO No, that’s a lot of money, more than enough to feed a lot of people who are suffering from hunger and thirst all over the world. Yes, it’s accepted that they need to spend a large amount of money for the World Cup, but if they could minimise it and give a portion to charity, it might change the lives of a lot of people. Can you imagine how many kids we could send to school - and even get a degree - with the money they used for the World Cup?

HENRY MATTHEWS It’s the same as South Africa who didn’t have the funds to spend on the last World Cup. The country benefited four or five times more than the amount they spent and it’s going to be the same for Brazil. The people who go to the tournament, and even just the country, are all going to spend a lot of money. Brazil is going to make a profit.

MOH No. 68/2014

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 1 0

N E W SYOUR OMAN

If the predictions had been borne out, Muscat would be waterlogged by now. Along with the rest of the country, it would be facing a soggy few days and the big clean-up would be just beginning.

By now, tropical “cyclone” Nanauk should have visited these shores and left a trail of destruction in its wake after the briefest of stays. Its flirtation with Oman was due to come on Sunday, not for long but certainly enough time to wreak havoc. The country was braced for the worst.

The memory of Gonu in 2007 and the devastation it caused, as seen in these photographs, remains strong.

Residents of Masirah Island and around the coast evacuated their homes, or at least took their valuables to the mainland for safekeeping. Hourly updates were issued by weather experts and advice issued by the authorities. Meanwhile, a social media storm was raging in the worlds of WhatsApp, Twitter and Facebook.

The storm was given a name – Nanauk – which was a bad sign. Only when a storm has a wind speed of more than 63kmh does it become a “tropical storm” and is officially named.

Satellite images showed a ferocious-looking swirling mass about 500km off the coast – and heading our way.

Reports spoke of waves reaching up to 16 metres high. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced it had taken all “precautionary measures” to avoid any shortage of food or fuel in the days after the storm hit.

People started ominously referring to Nanauk as a “cyclone” instead of just a storm (for the record, a tropical storm is categorised as becoming a cyclone when the maximum sustained wind speed is more than 119kmh, according to the World Meteorological Organization). Oman was braced for the worst.

And then, with 24 hours to go, Nanauk went off script, and off course, veering towards the Pakistan coast and away from the Sultanate.

The headlines changed and the talk was all about the “depression” weakening in the Arabian Sea.

After somewhat redundant consultations by the Committee of Exceptional Weather Systems, chaired by the CEO of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation, it was concluded there would be “no direct impact” on Oman and declared the end of Nanauk.

No winds with speeds of up to 90kmph would be sweeping in, battering the country and bringing an estimated 100-300mm of lashing rainfall in 24 hours. North and South Sharqiyah, Al Wusta and Muscat governorates were spared, along with the dozens of green turtles making their way to or on to the beach near Ras Al Hadd with nesting season in full swing.

Instead, the residents of Muscat woke up on Sunday and Monday to temperatures nudging 40°C and the usual cloudless blue skies with endless sun (left). The country breathed a collective sigh of relief. Forecasting meteorological events of any kind is at the mercy of the winds of change, quite literally.

“This phenomena has stages,” said a spokesman from the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) in the UAE.

“The storm takes time to form and gather intensity and strength. The warm water is its main energy, like fuel for an engine, so once it forms, it moves west and twists around itself like a cyclone.”

It’s this unpredictability, as shown by Nanauk, which can make the job of weather forecasting such a hit-and-miss affair. You can’t anticipate what a cyclone travelling at a speed of 30-40 knots will do.

Such storms are not uncommon at this time of year, according to the NCMS.

“If we look at historical data, we’ve had such storms in the past, like back in 2007, although it was much stronger,” said the spokesman. “The track of such storms have many possibilities, and Oman is one of them.”

Cyclone Gonu struck the coastline of Oman on June 6, 2007 and caused widespread damage with winds howling through Muscat, forcing thousands from their homes as torrential rains flooded streets and closed down schools and the airport, leaving 50 dead.

Little wonder Oman was quite happy to wave goodbye to Nanauk as it swept past. Words: Kate Ginn

THE STORMTHAT NEVER WAS

Hurricanes, typhoons and cyclones are different names for the same type of storm, known as “tropical cyclones”. What they’re called depends on where they’re from.

● Hurricanes form in the Atlantic Ocean,Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and east

of the International Date Line in the northern Pacific.

● Typhoons form west of the International Date Line in the northern Pacific Ocean.

● Cyclones form in the far southwest Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean.

3 Names For 1 Storm

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 1 2

If you’re looking to rent a villa in Azaiba then you’d better get your skates on before prices shoot up any higher.

A report by property agent Cluttons, which has evaluated the housing market in Muscat over the past quarter, has found that an increase in foreign investment from the UAE is helping to keep the property market buoyant.

It’s believed that rising prices in Dubai are forcing large swathes of the house-buying market, such as non-resident Indians, to look at other areas. And with good transport links and close proximity to the UAE, Muscat is proving to be an attractive alternative.

The Cluttons Muscat Spring 2014 Residential Market Outlook report also cites higher levels of job creation, arising from the Government’s infrastructure schemes, as a significant factor in pushing up demand for property purchases and residential lettings.

It is two-bedroom apartments and villas that are proving the most popular and subject to the strongest demand. But while rental rates for apartments have remained relatively stable in the past quarter, it is four-bedroom villas that have jumped the most this month, particularly in Azaiba, which enjoyed a nine per cent hike in rental prices this quarter and where a villa can fetch in the region of RO1,000 and upwards per month.

Among the properties proving the most desirable are those in integrated tourism complexes such as Muscat Hills and The Wave. If you want to book yourself a pad there, expect to may a hefty RO,3,500 per month for a deluxe five-bedroom villa

on the seafront touting all the latest high-end fittings from the likes of Miele and Villeroy & Boch.

That’s a figure that stands in stark contrast to the RO750 required to bag a nine-bedroom villa in Bawshar.

Cluttons spokesman Philip Paul said that with no other ITC developments on the horizon in the next six months, the capital value of properties in the likes of The Wave and Muscat Hills would continue to edge upwards.

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

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

Children take up arms in Iraq against militants marching on capital Baghdad as U.S considers airstrikes and special forces intervention

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

Hopes raised for recovery of F1 legend Michael Schumacher as he leaves hospital and is out of coma following skiing accident

Angelina Jolie made honorary dame by U.K as a tribute to the Hollywood star’s efforts to combat rape in war zones

A super banana, genetically engineered in Australia to raise a body’s vitamin A levels, is being tested with hopes it will improve health in Africa

What’s happening at Muttrah Corniche?Forget fishing for your supper in downtown Muscat because the municipality is getting tough on anglers wrangling for a whopper. Casting a line has been banned since February this year. The only thing you’ll land at the Corniche these days is a whole heap of trouble. Why? What’s going on? It seems keen anglers haven’t given a flying fish about the rules banning fishing there and the mischievous activity carries on “unabaited”. Muscat Municipality will soon be dishing out fines. It’s determined not to let any offenders slip through the net as the authority starts to put up signposts outlining the ban in no uncertain terms.Couldn’t they Hamour out a deal?Unlikely. The council member who reportedly floated the idea allegedly justified the ban on the grounds that large groupers of amateur fishermen sit on the Corniche – but it’s designed for walking along. Ah, I see. So it must be illegal to sit on the Corniche? No, it isn’t. So… why can’t I sit there with a fishing rod?Hmmm. Let’s move on. The ban was also justified on the grounds that the Muttrah Corniche could turn into a fish market. But the corniche IS turning into a fish market – a new fish souk is being built there! Yes, but the municipality member allegedly reported that most of the fishermen are expatriates, some of whom could be “illegals”.Could be illegals? Or are?Errr… could be, I guess, maybe, there’s a chance. Can’t say for sure. Look, it doesn’t matter, because the director-general of Muscat Municipality has reportedly promised specially designated areas for fishing in the governorate.Great – where are they please? Errr … that hasn’t been decided yet.Do say: I think we should mullet over some more.Don’t say: What a load of bull shark.

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

LOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE OF THE WEEK.CORNICHE FISHINg BAN

AzAIbA ON THE UP

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

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

A unified visa allowing tourists from selected countries to travel freely between the six GCC member states seems likely to be introduced by the end of the year, according to reports.

A GCC visa has been on the cards for more than a decade, but the final go-ahead has only just been given.

Stumbling blocks have been concerns about security and illegal immigrants taking advantage of the open borders.A report by the Higher Advisory Commission at the GCC has now set out the basic idea of the unified visa, saying it

would allow tourists to obtain a stamp from any of the member states – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE – which would then give them entry to all six countries.

However, permission would be dependent on financial and employment status. and only nationals from selected countries will be able to apply for the visa. Details of which countries these would be have not been revealed.

A single visa would be welcomed by Oman as tourists in Dubai would not need to get a separate visa to visit the Sultanate, which received 1.2 million non-GCC tourists last year.

GGC VISA BY YEAR END

Dubai attractions tend to be on the large size and the lastest star to be unveiled certainly lives up to its billing as one of the world’s biggest reptiles. Weighing more than 750kg – the

equivalent of 15 fully-grown men – and at five metres long, King Croc is a monster.

With his female companion, the saltwater crocodile was flown into the UAE two weeks ago from Australia. After settling in, the new arrival made his first public appearance at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo in Dubai Mall on Tuesday.

King – to his friends – is 40 years old and, rather worryingly, could grow even larger in the next 50 years of his expected lifespan.

His bite force is estimated to be about 3,700 pounds per square inch – the highest bite for any animal. Its head alone weighs more than 150kg. The 60 razor-sharp teeth are the size of an average index finger.

He had been living at a crocodile farm in Australia since 1996, but home for King Croc and his female companion of 20 years is now a special enclosure at Underwater Zoo.

It replicates the environment of Queensland with controlled humidity and monitoring of water temperature, which is maintained between 28C to 30C.

Paul Hamilton, the head curator of the Dubai Aquarium

KING CROC

The first small drops of drizzle have never caused so much excitement. But when the misty-like rain occurs in Dhofar, it can mean only one thing – the Khareef is on the way.

Drizzle was reported in Dhalkhout, about 160km west of Salalah, on Saturday, and the news quickly circulated on social media.

The Khareef season traditionally starts about June 21, but it

KHAREEF IS COMING

and Underwater Zoo, said the environment set up for the crocodile “simulates its natural habitat.”

He said: “The most important factor for us to make sure he feels at home.”Don’t expect King Croc and his companion to be posing for photographs on land too much.

The pair are expected to spend nearly 90 per cent of their time in the central 150 square metre pool, which has a number of fish species, and the remaining time resting on heated tiles.

It’s not all play, though. King Croc has a serious role as part of his job is to help educate children in Dubai about crocodiles through a schools programme.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo features a 270-degree walkthrough tunnel and Maitha al Dossari, CEO of Emaar Retail, says: “Through our exhibit, we are offering the exciting opportunity for our visitors to learn more about crocodiles and their role in the ecosystem.

“This marks the first time a crocodile of this size has his home within a mall in a major city.”

usually arrives early in Dhalkhout, which was blanketed with fine mist reducing visibility at times over the weekend.

It will be a relief to residents in Salalah, who have been struggling with temperatures of 30°C. Just as well they do not live in Muscat, or elsewhere in Oman, where the thermometer has been regularly hitting between 45°C and 48°C.

The Khareef, which ends in September, attracts visitors from all over the Gulf.

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 1 4

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS

OMAN’S SEAS30.

It’s no surprise that with 2,092km of coastline, Oman has a long and proud history with the sea. Like all

maritime nations subject to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, Oman can claim territorial sovereignty over the ocean up to 12 nautical miles (22km) from its shores and economic exclusivity to the resources within 200 nautical miles (370km).

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea to the south and the Gulf of Oman to the north, the sea has acted as a vital link to Oman’s trade with the rest of the world for thousands of years, as well as providing seafood vital to coastal communities.

June 25 will see the UN’s official body, the International Maritime Organisation, celebrating those who spend their working days at sea in order to bring us the goods we need with the Day of the Seafarer. Voice your support at http://dayoftheseafarer2014.imo.org

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

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS N E W S

SUmmER WITH Y.bE OUR INTERNAre you a college or university student hungry to work with

the best magazine in Oman? Y is looking for bright and ambitious interns to join us over the summer break and learn the journalism ropes.

This is very much a hands-on role with plenty of scope to get your name into print. You won’t just be making the tea –

we all take turns doing that on Y – but given exciting chances to get involved on real assignments, write stories and take photographs.

One day you could be attending a press conference and the next, trying out the latest adventure sport.

Knowledge of social media is a must, as is a “can do” attitude and willingness to get stuck in.

While the money is small, the opportunities are huge.Up for the challenge? Email your CV and cover letter explaining why you’d

be the best intern to editior@y-oman.com

Drink What You Can’t Eat.

Appeton Wellness 60+ gives seniors what their favourite food gives them.Your ageing parents may be losing their teeth, but they shouldn’t lose the goodness of food. Appeton Wellness 60+ provides seniors with the nutrition they need that is delicious and easy-to-digest. Specially formulated with a unique Energy Complex of Co-enzyme Q10, Vitamin B Complex and Chromium, this balanced beverage gives the elderly the nutrients their bodies need to live more energetically.

Plus, Appeton Wellness 60+ contains a slow-release protein called casein, which gradually supplies protein to the body without burdening the kidneys.

Also available in a diabetic-friendly formula, Appeton Wellness 60+ Diabetic releases energy gradually for better control over blood sugar levels.

Appeton Wellness 60+ is the Food for Seniors.

Pre-Diabetic& DiabeticFormula

Clinically Proved Endorsement is referenced in Effect of Nourishing Formula (Appeton Wellness 60+) Supplementation on the Nutritional Status, Functional Performance,, Cognitive Function and Quality of Life of Malnourished Elderly in Old Folks Home.

Available in all leading Pharmacies in the Sultanate of OmanDistributor: Ibn Sina Pharmacy LLC

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 1 6

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

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 1 8

INTO T

HE BL

UT H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

Think you’re the next David Bailey? The Women’s Guild in Oman is looking for original photographs depicting Oman for its 2015 calendar. Submissions are welcome from anyone interested in having their work displayed. All proceeds from sales of the calendar will go to charity. Submit entry as a JPEG file, 300dpi and no smaller than 2MB, to newscoordinator@womensguildoman.com by June 30.

THIS WEEKJ U N E

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE.

WHAT TO HEAR.

Party away as a host of DJs close the season with another epic event at Radisson Blu Muscat. Among those bringing the tunes will be A-axis, Chris Lambley and The Tronixx. Lazy Lizard from 4pm-10pm and O’Malleys from 10pm-2pm. Free entry from 4pm-6pm, RO10 after 6pm. Strictly 21+ and dress code casual (no sleeveless shirts in O’Malleys). See you on the dance floor. For more information, call + 968 9711 7577.

GRUB’s

UP!

June20June

INTERNATIONS

EVENT It’s time for another InterNations event. This is the last chance to mingle with your InterNations buddies for a while, so don’t miss out. Socialise with friends and new acquaintances at Route 66, Qurum Beach Resort, Jawharat Shatti Beach from 7pm. Free welcome drink on arrival and light finger food between 8pm-9pm. For more information, www.internations.org/muscat-expats

26June

30Picture This

If you love your food, then check out Gourmet Nights at the Marina. Students from the Gulf Chef School at the National Hospitality Institute will be cooking up a fabulous four-course meal at the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha from 7.30pm. Very tasty. RO26 per person. Call 2481 6313 or check it out at www.nhioman.com

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

JUNE

20All White on the Night

Dazzle the night away at Left Bank in Qurum with this evening of music, fashion and fun. Live mannequin models will be wearing clothes from The LookOUt by Layal, a young designer due to open a boutique in Bawshar. Dress code is strictly white. Tickets RO20 on sale at the venue only. For more information, contact 2469 3699. Event sponsored by Silhouette and Paris Optics.

04JULY

Crêpes / Ice Cream / Breakfast / Fast Lunch / Cakes Coffee / Smoothies / Sandwiches / Sides & Salad

NOW OPENOPEN ALL WEEK

SUNDAY TO SATURDAY 8:00 am - 11:00 pmWE ARE LOCATED AT

contact number:Tel: +968 2455 3638Fax: +968 2455 3631 mawaleh@cakegalleryoman.com

Al Roudha Boulevard, Al Mawaleh, Muscat, Oman

MAWALEH BRANCH

follow us:

e-mail:

IN STYLE Make a note in your diary. Dar Al Atta’a is holding a series of “Hand in Hand” events during Ramadan at the Al Mazar Souq at the Heritage Village in Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort. The first event on July 4 is Style and Fashion with clothes and accessories, starting at 8pm. Funds raised will go towards helping underprivileged children buy school uniforms and supplies. To reserve spaces or for more details, contact 2477 6514 or email rasha.almadani@shangri-la.com

The Sultanate has its sights set on becoming a major player on the global tourism stage with a unique identity. All we have to do now is sell the country, says Tom Robertson and Kate Ginn

Mak

ing o

ur

Mark

Oman

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 2 0

It’s the most popular location in the world to visit. Everyone wants to go there and soak up its wonderful hospitality, luxury hotels, numerous attractions and breathtaking landscape. This is not just a holiday – this is Brand Oman.

And this is Oman of the future. Or rather, how the country could well be marketed as part of ambitious plans to position it

as the premier location in the GCC region.If the idea of a Brand Oman sounds far-fetched, think again.Only this week, it was announced that "Brand Muscat" would be the

subject of a major makeover in the next couple of years as the tourism landscape of the country undergoes a huge transformation.

If all goes to plan, the capital will be transformed by the end of 2016 with an ultra-modern airport, new exhibition centre, massive malls, more hotel rooms and attractions such as water parks.

It doesn’t end there. The rest of the Sultanate will also see new projects with theme parks and other attractions for visitors.

Clearly, the men and women in charge of tourism are thinking big.“People come to Oman because it is different,” says Abdul Wahid

al Farsi, chief communications officer of Omran, a 100 per cent government-owned tourism development company.

“The authenticity of the place and the rich cultural heritage, apart from its diverse climate and natural beauty, would make Oman a unique destination that can be branded as a whole country.”

Branding is nothing new. Just think of Apple, Microsoft and Coca-Cola, some of the most instantly recognisable brand names on the planet thanks to slick marketing and good products.

Make no mistake about it, brands are big business as companies try to tap into new markets by employing management firms to project their products to the largest audience. Image is everything.

Brand management companies are out to build a relationship between you and the product, one in which you emotionally connect with – and so buy – one product over another.

And there’s a whole arsenal of tricks to make you do it. Adjusting the product itself, the look, the price, the packaging, the design, the “experience” of using the product – all so you become a loyal customer to the brand.

Branding countries or cities seems to be the next "big thing". Some countries have even gone so far as to employ public relations agencies to promote their interests abroad, and to attract tourism and investment

Burson-Marsteller, a global public relations firm, has represented the likes of Romania and Indonesia to help gain preferential trading rights with other countries and change public perceptions of national human

rights records. Countries are giving more thought to the way that they’re perceived in the world – and Oman is getting in on the action.

It has done a good job of selling itself so far.

“Oman has marketed itself as a culturally savvy, high-end destination that is both safe and friendly,” says Garry Friend, general manager of the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel. “The Sultanate is seen as being able to offer a low-rise environment that’s different to the skyscrapers of Dubai.”

Maurizio Monte, a Muscat-based expert in communications and managing director of MPiRe Communication Agency, agrees.

“Personally I think the government is doing well in highlighting Oman’s natural attractions, rich history, people and luxury resorts and spas to attract tourists,” he says.

“That’s as well as projecting its modern ever-expanding infrastructure, growing industrial base and stable government to attract foreign investors.

“Oman’s strengths are that it’s got an economy that’s undergoing diversification, increasing local production and a robust banking system.”

What Oman has to do well is tread carefully the thin line between

DestinationBeauty

AdventuresOutdoor

& Fun

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

maintaining its cultural roots while embracing the modernity that is needed to compete in a dynamic world.

This, says Garry Friend, is a balancing act it has mastered. So far.

“Guests who I speak to say what attracted them to Oman was the the opportunity to experience traditional old-world standards blended with modernity (the old and the new). The fact that even after all the development the country has seen, it still maintains its strong identity.”

That is all well and good, but how does one go about selling a country to a wider global audience?

A clear strategy and vision is key, says Mr Monte.

“It's all about identifying, developing and communicating the elements that are favourable to some specified target groups.

“My suggestion would be to also identify spokespeople, local brands and events that can favourably influence public opinion in other countries. Oman Sail is an excellent example – but definitely not enough on its own.”

It’s not all plain sailing. Oman does high-end resorts such as Shangri-La’s Barr al Jissah extremely well but it's not just about capturing one segment of the market. To be a big player, Oman needs to have wide appeal.

This is about to change. Oman is going to shed its image as simply

a high-end tourist destination. “There

has always been complaints about the high-priced hotel rooms in Oman due to the shortage of hotel facilities across the country,” admits Mr al Farsi, “Omran intends to introduce the concept of budget hotels under the new Atana Hotels brand to cater for the increasing number of tourists.”

There will also be more three to four-star hotels.

“We’re looking to promote domestic tourism. Locals need tourist facilities that they can afford but without compromising on service and quality.”

By 2020, there could be as many as 5,500 more hotel rooms in Oman.

Feasibility studies are currently under way to assess the potential of other attractions such as major theme parks, luxury tented camps, and regional discovery galleries (visitor centres). Work could start in 2015.

It will also include projects to use culturally significant buildings such as forts and castles for bed and breakfast accommodation.

“We’re now looking to projects that tourists would like to see in place when they visit somewhere new,” says Mr al Farsi.

“They don’t come simply to stay in five-star resorts. Places like the newly opened Alila Jabal Akhdar should be seen as an anchor around which we provide other attractions.” The remarketing is about to begin, so watch this space. Brand Oman could be coming to a tourism brochure near you soon.

RelaxUnwindRevitalise

Y Readers Have Their Say

How should Oman sell itself?

Sadia ShamsThis country can be projected as a tourist destination. Oman is full of natural beauty and it should be enhanced and projected so that tourists are attracted from all over the world.

Syed BokhariOman should be known as a peaceful and developing country with its loving people.

Jomari Somontina SagalThey should first focus on a good public transportation system.

Camilo DazzaThe country brand is more than an image or logo. It’s the representation of the values and identity from the peoples’ hearts.

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 2 2

Verbier, the Seychelles, New York and Muscat? For a new breed of upmarket traveller,

Oman is about to become de rigueur. But first the marketing has to be just right.

Successful branding is not only the key to getting noticed and creating a following in a strong global market, but its about doing things differently.

It’s clear that the Sultanate doesn’t want to follow Dubai by becoming yet another playground for the super rich. Its strength lies in its authenticity. Oman needs to redefine luxury, making it less about consumption and more about beautiful simplicity.

Compact but geologically diverse, this is a country that offers a myriad of opportunities for escaping into nature. It may not be wild in the classic sense of the word but there are plenty of lonely corners to explore, lurking behind mountains and along sun-drenched deserts. The process just has to be made easier and packaged better.

It’s about going back to basics and learning about the land’s rich cultural credentials. In touristic terms, the tale is one of

de-stressing and self-discovery. In business, it’s about opportunity and partaking in Arab hospitality. And the secret to success is selling a story with consistency and class.

All this may sound simple but expectations must be married with reality – otherwise, the bubble will quickly burst. There’s little point selling a country of exceptional beauty if the main wadis and beaches are blighted by litter. And who wants to visit a city where there are no metered taxis and accommodation is ludicrously expensive? Business may be good here but the bureaucracy can be a bore. If the Sultanate wants to thrive it must first be honest with itself. Find solutions to challenges, then build a brilliant brand with efficiency, effectiveness and economy. Create a calendar crammed with festivals, folk music and outdoor activity. Bring legends back to life and let locals take centre stage – because beyond the scenery and desert, it’s interactions with Omanis that will remain in people’s memories the longest.

This is an amazing country. Let it be more on the international stage than that little place next to the UAE. It’s finally time for Oman to shine.

The phrase "good things come in small packages" may be a cliché, but in the case of Oman it's undeniably true, says Penny Fray, Y’s former editor and a marketing specialist

The Top Ten Branded Countries It’s not just products that can be ranked as the world’s best brand. GFK, a market and consumer information consultancy, produces an annual index that measures global perceptions of countries according to exports, governance, culture, people, tourism and immigration and investment.

Here’s 2013’s top national brands. United States Germany United Kingdom France Canada Japan Italy Switzerland Australia Sweden

Global Super brands Think you know the biggest brands on the planet? Predominantly instantly recognisable electronics and food companies, you’re bound to be familiar with almost all of those in the top 10 with values that run into the bill ions*.

1. Apple – RO40.04 bill ion2. Microsoft – RO21.83 bill ion3. Coca-Cola – RO21.13 bill ion4. IBM – RO19.52 bill ion5. Google – RO18.21 bill ion6. McDonald's – RO15.17 bill ion7. General Electric – RO13.16 bill ion8. Intel – RO11.89 bill ion9. Samsung – RO11.36 bill ion10. Louis Vuitton – RO10.93 bill ion* Forbes top brands by value as of November 2013

TraditionCulture

History

J U N 1 2 - 1 8 / I S S U E 3 240 24

2014 FIFA WORLD CUP MATCH SCHEDULEGroup Matches

Venue

J U N 1 2 - 1 8 / I S S U E 3 24 0 2 5

Round of 16 Quarter-finals Semi-finals3rd Place &

Final

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 2 6

In a bid to avoid substitution, Poochy has been anxiously shaking her crystal football to try to up her game and get some more successful predictions on the board. Asked who would win in the next crunch match between our nearest World Cup

hopefuls, Iran, and the host nation’s neighbour, Argentina, the omens were read. With her confidence knocked by a slightly misfiring psyche, Poochy nervously plumped for Argentina before asserting herself with a little more confidence on her chosen team.

PoochyPoochyShe’s back! Oman’s first pet predictor is knocking out forecasts like Van Persi knocks goals past Spanish goalkeeper Casillas. But the feline footy fan is taking a bit of time to get her eye in as a mixed bag of results for the cat clairvoyant resulted in just one correct prediction

Y’s roundup brings you up to date with all the news from the week’s crunch matches

The opening match between Brazil and Croatia on June 12 was everything football fans had hoped for. That is unless you’re Croatian, of course. Steeped in drama, the clash between the two sides looked as though it was going the way of the

Europeans until Brazil fought back with three goals – including a controversial penalty as striker Fred was deemed to have been brought

down in the penalty box.From the most decorated team in World Cup history to the

current champions, Spain, who wanted to skulk away into the darkness as the Netherlands, their World Cup final opponents from South Africa 2010, proved that revenge is

a dish best served cold. Thumping five goals into the Spanish net, the Netherlands’ victory won

applause from pundits who rejoiced in lethal counter-attacks and the return of total football (a style of play pioneered by Dutch club Ajax in which players move in and out of position to replace a teammate). It was the worst

defeat ever suffered by a World Cup defending team in the history of the tournament.

England, meanwhile, were edged out by a header from goal-hungry Balotelli,

The World Cup so farThe World Cup so far

poochy’s Bloopers W croatia to beat Brazil – cat-astrophic prediction. hosts win.W england to beat italy – missed it by a whisker. the azurri edge out england.W portugal to beat germany - wrong again - but nobody predicted the german rout.

purrfect predictions W netherlands beat spain – who saw that one coming? – poochy did.

Iran vs Argentina

who put paid to English hopes of a bright start in the 50th minute of their match against Italy.

Their group rivals, Uruguay, simultaneously suffered a shock defeat as Costa Rica came from behind with two goals in three minutes to steal the match.

Meanwhile, in Group C, it was Colombia who started with a flourish with a 3-0 victory over Greece. It was a strong start and solid performance from the South Americans, who are looking to progress beyond the last 16 for the first time in a World Cup.

But the most shocking result was to come from a German side that blasted out of the starting gate on Monday by firing four goals past the Portuguese in their opening game. An exasperated Ronaldo was left looking forlorn as his hot-headed defender Pepe was sent off for “headbutting” Thomas Muller in the 37th minute to

leave a ten-man side desperately trying to fend off a dominant Germany. If the Germans keep up that kind of form, they’ll be serious champion contenders.

Monday’s clashes also saw the United States scrapping away in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Ghana.

This Week’s Pet Pick

B R O U G H T T O Y O U B Y

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

ENglAND vS URUgUAY (JUNE 19)

This could well be the battle of the wounded dogs. With both teams beaten in their opening matches, England and Uruguay should come out like snarling animals, fully aware that the losers will almost certainly not make it out of the group stage. Critics are also calling for Wayne Rooney’s head, so expect him to play as though his life, or at least international career, depends on it.

Key maTChes This WeeK

Every now and then, an event comes along that is so special, so powerful, it has the strength to empty the streets

of Muscat.It was an hour before midnight and

no one was concerned about Nanauk, the tropical storm working its way closer and closer to Masirah Island.

I was busy setting up my LED screen at home when I noticed that not a soul was asking about Nanauk.

It reminded me that all Omanis forget their troubles and share the beautiful game with the rest of the world when the World Cup comes around every four years.

Football – a cyclone that’s missed by the weathermen, but never by sports fans.

Six hours before, Seeb beach was packed with children playing football and wearing assorted jerseys of the colours that will be worn by the teams making their appearance in “Copa do Mundo Brasil 2014”, as the greatest sporting show on Earth is called in Portuguese.

Meanwhile, coffee shops and certain public areas in Muscat were preparing to host fans of all ages and nationalities, who would be gathering as one to support their favourite teams and players.

I decided to watch the first game in the Koooora office because the atmosphere at home was not giving me the excitement I craved.

At home, each family member had his or her own team to support. They were each wearing a different coloured football shirt. I needed a

different sort of atmosphere, so I phoned a friend to pick me up and drop me off at my office, where I could watch the game without interruption.

Alone at the office, I watched the opening game between Brazil and Croatia. Once again, Neymar gave happiness not only to me, but to Brazilians all over the world.

A 3-1 victory for Brazil was all I needed to know – no need to watch the match analysis on beIN Sports. The only thing that mattered was that Brazil got the perfect start to their World Cup campaign.

At 2am, I began my walk home. It was a beautiful clear night and the gleaming white moon seemed to be smiling at me with its pretty baby face. Suddenly, the silence was broken as a convoy of 10 cars or more drove past, all with passengers waving Brazilian flags.

Everyone seemed to be celebrating. Groups of teenagers were discussing the game – the final school exams were finished and forgotten.

World Cup mania had arrived in Muscat. It was happy, it was joyful, it was noisy. As a football fanatic, this was the sort of environment I yearned for. For me, it meant more work, more articles and, most importantly, more football.

During the month-long tournament, I will travel across the Sultanate to cover the story of “The World Cup in Oman.”

All eyes might be on Brazil, but mine will be here, in football-mad Oman.

CyClone fooTballFor one month every four years, the whole world goes football crazy – and it is no different in Muscat. Koooora’s Fahad al Tamimi leaves nothing to chance in his bid to show his love of the beautiful game

There will be no misinterpreting the player’s on-pitch remarks as the teams go head to head in this Francophile affair. Little Switzerland were seeded in the top 10 for the tournament, making them a potential thorn in France’s side. But with public opinion backing Les Bleus, Ottmar Hitzfeld’s Swiss side will be intent on putting one over their French neighbours.

Ghana carry a lot of African pride into the tournament as one of the few sides from the continent to have fared well. But with Germany’s staggeringly good goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, in between the posts and their recent pounding of Portugal, the Ghanaians will have a job scoring goals against a quality side.

FRANCE vS SWItzERlAND (JUNE 20)

gERMANY vS gHANA (JUNE 21)

Spain started off in terrible form. An embarrassing defeat to the Netherlands in their opening match, left them on the ropes. Ranked third after their inaugural match, they had a lot to do, and depending on the result of Wednesday’s match against Chile, this could even be their final appearence at this year’s World Cup.Will the current champs prevail?

AUStRAlIA vS SpAIN (JUNE 23)

Photo

: Abd

ul W

ahid

al H

amad

ani

B r o u g h t t o y o u b y

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 2 8

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

mADE WITH LOVECake making as an art is back in vogue, fuelled by

TV programmes and books. Done well, creations can

speak better than words to express sentiments or

celebrations.

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

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

A PIECE OF CAKE

H earing Nadiya Khan describe the intricacies of decoration and icing, it’s clear for all to see that this is a devotion that runs deep.

Her business partner and friend, Shatha al Saleh, shows photographs of their work – elaborate cake designs from a

replica Porsche car to Disney-themed affairs.The two ladies, who started their own business almost five years ago in a

villa kitchen, have taken the craft of cake making to a new level with their sumptuous and tasty creations adorning tables at events across Muscat and beyond.

Go to a birthday party or anniversary celebration and you could well be tucking into a cake made by Cloud9 The Bake Studio.

“It was an accidental discovery really,” says Nadiya. “Shatha and I have been friends since we did our Masters.

“I was having a few issues in my personal life and she would come round and listen to me talking while I was making a cake. Baking was very therapeutic.

“Then, we started making cakes together.”Shatha admits that at first her culinary skills were somewhat limited.“I didn’t even know how to switch on an oven, for me the kitchen was

never my area,” she laughs. “But I was inspired by Nadiya. She’s the person who had the talent.”

For fun, the two women started putting up photographs of their labours in the kitchen on Facebook. When friends began asking if they took orders, their cake company was born.

Both were juggling jobs – Nadiya at Majan College and Shatha in marketing with Shell – with their expanding business. Nadiya also had the pressure of being a mother of two children.

Their expertise is much in demand. On average, they receive 10 to 15 calls a day wanting an order.

Making the actual sponge cake is the “easy part”, according to Nadiya. The hard work starts with the decoration. It can be anything from a simple “Happy Birthday” icing to complex cakes, which can take weeks to complete. They even made a 3D fondant decoration for one bake.

Fondant – a type of icing – is worked like a piece of dough and can be shaped and sculpted into designs, rather like clay. There are even special tools, such as a cutter, which can be used to make features on fondant figures like cheeks or eyes. It’s like artists at work, rather than bakers.

From dinosaurs to electric sockets, and Mickey Mouse to cupcakes decorated with sugar babies, the magic they can create has no limits.

“We are emotionally connected to each cake,” says Nadiya. “Each one is made with love.”

Cloud9 has now opened a café next to Muscat Private Hospital in Bawshar, where customers can buy, or place an order for, cakes, cupcakes and macarons. Big plans include cooking classes and speciality breads.

To see some of their amazing creations, log on to Instagram@cloud9thebakestudio

From passion to profession is their mantra. Kate Ginn meets the Cake Mamas of Muscat who are baking up a storm

* Makes 20 bars Ingredients:l 2 cups white sugarl 1 cup butterl 1/2 cup cocoa powderl 1 teaspoon vanilla extractl 4 eggsl 1 cup all-purpose flourl 1/2 teaspoon baking powderl 1/2 teaspoon saltl 1/2 cup walnut halves Method: l Melt the butter or margarine and mix all ingredients in the order given.l Bake at 350°F 180°C for 20 to 30 minutes in a 9x13-inch greased pan.l Cut into squares and serve(Source: allrecipes.com)

Quick and Easy Brownies

Recipe

l Sponge ingredients have to be at room temperature. This includes milk, butter and eggs. Otherwise, the sponge will collapse in the middle or be too hard.l Don’t open the oven door during cooking. Cake mixture is very sensitive.l Don’t be too ambitious to start with. A simple cake like a Victoria sponge is a good start.l Remember that when decorating, the structure needs to be soft enough to eat, but hard enough to hold its shape.

Cloud9’s Top Tips for Cake Perfection:

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 3 0

Asked to review one of the latest dining hotspots to hit Muscat – On The Rocks restaurant next to

the Golden Tulip Hotel – I set about booking a table.

Simple, I thought, until it became apparent that there were no phone numbers listed on the Internet, not even on their small Facebook listing.

“The website isn’t up yet,” I was told by the young lady who smiled back at me, having had to drive there and book a table. Frustrating, to say the least.

But returning that evening – and ignoring the soggy pile of pasta that was the marketing strategy without a phone listing – we found ourselves in a brave new razzle-dazzle world that nullified the sour memories of the previous evening’s booking irritation.

Glitzy blue lights guide visitors to a reception that exudes an atmosphere of modernity and exclusivity. Step through the doors into the dining area and it’s more Saint-Tropez than Seeb.

There were white leather sofas on which to lounge, while disco-style lighting pulsated to chilled-out beats. With a full range of beverages offered by an army of attentive waiters, it was the perfect place to just sit and chat. No hurry here. Especially not with complimentary scrumptious little pastry-clad olives

placed temptingly in front of us. We were taking our time – it felt good to be somewhere snazzy.

When we did make it to the equally smart dining area, two menus awaited. One listed gourmet pub food and another full restaurant fare.

The question was, how to mix the two together? With courage and self belief is how. I opted for four mini-gourmet chicken burgers for starters followed by lamb chops for the main. Go big or go home I thought. My friends selected a variety of dishes which, between us, led to the belief that we had a majority of the bases covered.

Around us, the other diners chatted away in French, Arabic and English, and laughter resounded from what seemed to be a fairly well-heeled bunch. It was a strange situation in which Shiseido moisturised fingers flicked through menus bustling with mid-market prices.

Would the food be a million-dollar affair? The mini chicken burgers weren’t at all a let down and had a gorgeous mix of cheese and salad that dripped with a cheeky

unexpected egg. Across the table, one of our number was tucking into anchovy and feta bruschetta that didn’t hang around for too long. Meanwhile, the third starter, a sparse but pleasant serving of scallops, had avoided the faux-pas of being overcooked. “Leave them wanting more” had almost certainly been the chef ’s ethos, though.

An accomplished set of starters had set the bar reasonably high and had us wondering in anticipation just how the main course would turn out.

Suffice to say, it was another solid effort by a new kitchen presumably keen to impress.

The lamb chops that I had ordered were cooked as requested (medium) but were, if I admit it, slightly fatty –

more so than usual. A slightly stingy portion of vegetables was a theme that ran through the meals on the table.

Our companion’s saffron risotto was deemed “subtly flavoured and taste bud-teasing”, rather than overpowering. Meanwhile, the third pillar of our expeditionary trio had tucked into his “melt in your mouth” steak. It was cooked to near perfection but, for a born and

bred South African, too small and referred to as a “starter steak”.

But the great thing about receiving portions that are “reserved” is that there’s always room for dessert.

A deconstructed tiramisu proved tasty enough and pretty as a picture, while rose scented water chestnut turned out to be a pleasantly unusual base for a white chocolate and coconut mousse.

But all in all, the three courses had been impressive with very little to complain about other than the size of the portions – which is always a difficult thing to judge. Too much can be offensive and too little can be seen as stingy. It’s a fine line. We decided to debate this point over coffee.

Only there wasn’t any, on the grounds that the machine wasn’t working yet and none of the staff, nor management, had shown the initiative to provide cafetieres.

If a restaurant is open, it’s open. That means providing decent information on a website to get people to the restaurant in the first place and then rounding off the evening with a coffee.

There’s no “half open” and it’s somewhat unfair that chefs working hard to impress from the off should have had their efforts blighted by a lack of overall polish caused by admin failures.

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

Love On The RocksCool has a new name in Muscat, but a couple of teething issues could leave customers hot under the collar, says Tom Robertson

FOOD

DRINKAND

verdict:

Snazzy joint and good food slightly

tarnished by teething issues

8 10

Info BoxOn THE ROckS Golden Tulip HotelExhibition Street

Seeb+ 968 97983333 / 9798881

Three-course dinner for three excluding drinks: RO61Currently open evenings

from 7.30pm

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

J U N 0 5 - 1 1 / I S S U E 3 2 30 3 2

WHITE HEATStay cool in summer’s sultriness

with a simple yet stylish white maxi – not only will this suitcase essential enhance your tan but

it’ll also take you from day to night with the right accessories. Cut to flatter all figures, we’ll be making this cotton number from Phase

Eight our vacation signature with a pair of embellished sandals and a

metallic beach tote.

HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 3 2

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

THE GREAT

GETAWAYEvery summer is the same: you overpack and then claim you have nothing to wear. Not this year, promises Penny Fray

SUMMER LOVIN’ 1. Laying all your holiday clothes on the bed before packing forces you to focus on what you really need. 2. Colour code your clothing. This will ensure everything works really well and almost always halves your luggage space. 3. When it comes to shades, go for aviators. They’re light, hip and go with virtually everything. 4. If you fancy print - opt for stripes - they’re a summer fail-safe and look especially great with block colours and neon accessories.

Buying a new suitcase means the big escape has officially begun. This summer, avoid excess luggage charges by packing light and playing

with coordinating colours. If you’re going on a beach holiday as I am,

start with a canvas of a well-fitted swimsuit in a neutral hue. Do not skimp on quality as construction will help keep those wobbly bits under control. Also, a good one will work wonders under a pair of silk trousers for evening. In other words, go for something that’s the perfect base for low-maintenance luxury, investing in high-quality lycra before building up with stylish separates and statement-making accessories.

When it comes to the crucial cover up, try a silk kaftan. Not only will it make a chic impact, but it can help you to stay cool when the climate gets cloyingly hot. If you want to dress it up a little, add some big jewellery or a pair of bling-bling sandals.

Alternatively, try crease-free crochet for the haute hippy look. Maxi dresses are essential for this trend because they’ll take you from day to night with ease.

Last, but not least, don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen and an oversized hat to protect your skin from the sun.

Wherever your destination, stay cool, comfortable, coordinated and classy and you can’t go wrong. Happy holidaying.

Fendi’s animal-print silk-satin kaftan has split sleeves and is cut for an oversized fit - perfect for keeping cool on vacation. An investment piece at RO400 from net-A-Porter.

If a statement swimsuit isn’t your thing, choose this season’s hottest neutral - white. This H&M one-piece looks much more expensive than its RO16 price tag.

From plane to beach, Penny’s tips to efficient travel dressing:

Add a bold piece of jewellery to a simple maxi or kaftan and you can go straight from beach to brunch. I love the boho vibe of this Mango necklace, currently on sale for RO17.5.

Tripp’s new summer collection comes in the coolest colours, including classic white. You won’t miss it on the carousel. From RO49.

A wide-brim hat is a beach holiday essential. This lightweight design from Accessorize is perfect for protecting your face and shoulders from the sun. From RO10.

Bored with pool sliders? Animal print flats teamed with bright coral polish equals instant holiday hip. These leather leopard-print sandals from Zara, RO39, will look great with virtually anything.

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 3 4

HEALTH&BEAUTY

It doesn’t matter how much you spend on your skincare regime, one study has found that they all have the same effect, writes Felicity Glover

What price

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

Women the world over have battled the effects of ageing for what seems like millennia. We all know about Cleopatra, who

had a thing for bathing in rose petals and milk to keep her skin soft.But did you know that geishas used to paint their teeth black to enhance their light complexions, or that England’s Queen Victoria reportedly soaked her gloves in rose oil to mask other, well, more unpleasant smells?Arsenic and lead were other favourite, albeit poisonous, ingredients during the Victorian era when it came to lightening and brightening the skin.But fast-forward to the 21st century and it seems that not much has changed. Our battle to keep Mother Nature at bay continues, albeit with some formidable weapons that our sisters from previous centuries lacked: Botox, fillers, plastic surgery and a raft of other treatments.The pressure to look younger than our years has never been more intense. Thanks to the media and its airbrushing tactics and techniques, coupled with anorexic-looking teens strutting the catwalks in luxe labels, the price of beauty has skyrocketed to the point where even the most fantastical claims and bizarre ingredients are taken seriously.But what price beauty?Here’s a good example. In July last year, upmarket British store Fortnum & Mason launched yet another product that is jostling for the title of the world’s most expensive face cream: Cult51, which is priced at RO81 for a 50ml jar.Put it in context and that would be equivalent to

beauty?

an eye-watering RO61,221 per tonne. Not that you’d be buying it by the tonne – at least we hope not.Made by British chemist Richard Meares, when it was released Cult51 apparently had a waiting list of 5,000 women desperate to reverse the signs of ageing by up to five years in as little as six weeks.Harrod’s has been selling another anti-ageing product that was developed by Nasa scientists and features rare diamond dust particles. At RO390 for a 50ml jar, one would hope that it lived up to its claims.But here’s the rub: a study conducted by research scientists from the University of Bath in the U.K. in 2012 found that nanoparticles, which are used widely in sunscreen and skincare creams, are unable to “transport and deliver active ingredients deep inside the skin.”In other words, it doesn’t matter how much you spend on your pot of skincare cream, it’s failing to live up to its promise of reversing the effects of ageing because it is sitting on the top layers of your skin. In fact, that’s exactly what your High Street creams, which cost a fraction of the price of their big-ticket rivals, also do.“The skin’s role is to act as a barrier to potentially dangerous chemicals and to reduce water loss from the body,” said Professor Richard Guy, who led the study.“Our study shows that it is doing a good job of this.“So, while an unsuspecting consumer may draw the conclusion that nanoparticles in their skin creams are ‘carrying’ an active ingredient deep into the skin, our research shows this is patently not the case.”

1 La Prairie Cellular Cream Platinum Rare

Key ingredient: platinum Cost: RO384

2 Orlane Crème RoyaleKey ingredient: 24-carat gold,

royal jellyCost: RO249

3 Sisley Sisleya Global Anti-Age Cream

Key ingredient: Ursolic acid Cost: RO276

4 Chantecaille Nano Gold Energizing Cream

Key ingredient: 24-carat gold Cost: RO161

5 Amore Pacific Time Response Skin Renewal

Crème Key ingredient: Green tea flower Cost: RO153

5 of the world’s most expensive skincare creams

Source: www.totalbeauty.com

It’s summer, so this hot yellow jewellery is perfect to complement your cool clothes and capture the sunny vibe. Brought to you by Italian boutique Reflection in Al Mawaleh South, this set is sure to make any outfit stand out in a crowd. Daffodil-coloured earrings (suitable for pierced ears only) are completed by a bracelet with matching strap and decorative metal disc in gold colour with matching small skulls, making it an unusual and unique item.In the last of our month-long giveaways, one reader could win the earrings and bracelet set by simply answering the following question:What is the national flower emblem of Wales:a. Roseb. Daisyc. DaffodilEmail your answer and contact details to editor@y-oman.com by June 23. Last week’s winner is Corrine M.F. Remedios, with the correct answer of Ruby.

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

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

STYLE COUNSEL BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

Dear Ellen,I am assuming that it’s a music festival you are attending. If so, what fun to channel your inner rock chick with a Woodstock

vibe. You can find many looks in Muscat at great prices. As you live in Seeb, take yourself to your local souk or Markaz Al Bahja. There, you will find a shop called Kashmir on the second floor, where you will be amazed at the fabulous cotton kaftans and tops with or without embroidery. As it’s in the U.K. a shawl will also be necessary. Wear your tops with rolled-up jeans, beads and flat shoes. These festivals tend to be dusty – or even muddy – affairs, so keep your outfit loose, comfortable and low maintenance! These are pieces you will wear again. Have fun.

If you have any fashion questions for Barbra, email

info@y-oman.com or tweet #style

@ytabloid

I’m a 35-year-old teacher and attending my first ever festival in the U.K. this summer. Problem is, I’m not sure what to wear. I’m no Kate Moss, being a curvy size 14 (U.K.), and I don’t fancy spending a small

fortune on stuff I’m never going to wear again, especially when tickets have cost more than RO200. Can you recommend something practical, yet minimalist? Ellen, Seeb

Q.

A.

Barbra Young, a former designer and retailer

WIN

See below

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

No downloading required

GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE

GET YOUR FREE COPY OF Y AT THE FOLLOWING DISTRIBUTION POINTS…

Al Mina’a• BaitalBaranda• BaitalZubairMuttrah• ShellSelectQantab• AlBustanPalace

Hotel• MarinaBanderAL

Rowdha• OmanDiveClub• ShangriLaSifa• SifawiBeachHotelWadi Kabir• AlMaya

Hypermarket• LuluHypermarket• MuscatPharmacy• National

HospitalityInstitute

• PizzaHut• ShellSelectMBD• BankDhofar• Centrepoint-

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

Hypermarket• AlizzIslamicBank• BahwanTravel

Agencies• BankSohar• CopperChimney• CostaCoffee• HSBC• LamaPolyclinic• NBO• OmanArabBank• Standard

CharteredBank• WoodlandsDarsait• IndianSocialClub• KhimjiMart• KIMSHospital• LuluHypermarket• MuscatBakery• ShellSelectAL Falaj/Rex Road• AlFalajHotel• BadarAlSama• GoldenOryx

Restaurant• KamatRestaurant• ToshibaShowroom

RUWI• ApolloMedical

Centre• KamatRestaurant• KFC• KhimjiMegastore

–SwarovskiShowroom

• Khimji’sWatches-Showroom

• KMTrading• OmanAir• OmanUAE

Exchange,OCC• OTE• SarwanaBhawanWattayah• AhliBank• Bestcars• BLS• FordShowroom• HatatHouse• HondaShowroom• Kia• Lexus• NationalTravel&

Tourism• OTE-Chevorlet/

GMshowroom• OTE-Hyundai

showroom• OTE-Subaru

showroom• PassagetoIndia• ShellSelect• Suzuki-Moosa

AbdulRahmanShowroom

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

Coffee• JungleRestaurant• LeftBank• McDonald’s• Mercedes

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

CommercialComplex

• RasAlHamraClub• SABCOCentre• SecondCup• Starbucks• SultanCentre

Qurum• TchéTchécoffee

shopShatti Al Qurum• BareeqAlShatti

Complex• CarribouCoffee• Darcy’sKitchen• GermanEyeLaser

Center• IndusRestaurant,

ROHM• Intercontinental

Hotel• JawaharatAlShatti

Complex• KayaSkinClinic• MoreCafé,ROHM• MuscatEyeLaser

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

(DunkinDonuts)• AYANASpa• COSMECLINIC• EmiratesMedical

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

University• BritishCouncil• CostaCoffee• Darcy’sKitchen• HanaSlimming

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

Saloon• StarbucksAl Khuwair• BadarAlSama• BaitAlReem• BaitAlReem-

CoffeeShop

• CaféVergnano• Centrepoint-

Splash• DiplomaticClub• GrandHyatt

Muscat• GulfCollege• HarleyDavidson• HSBC• KFC• KhimjiMart• Khimji’sWatches-

Showroom• KMTrading• LandmarkGroup• McDonald’s• MuscatBakery• OmanBowling

Center• OmanOilAhlain• OmanUnited

Insurance• OMRAN• PizzaHut• RadisonBLU• ShellSelect• TGIfridays• TheKebabFactory• TheTikkaPlace• ZaharaTravel• ZakherShopping

MallMGM• CarribouCoffee• GloriaJean’s

Coffee• JustFalafel• Nawras• PaulPatisserie• TimHortonsBousher• Collegefor

Banking&FinancialStudies

• DolphinVillage• ModernCollegeOf

BusinessStudies• MuscatCollege• MuscatPrivate

Hospital-Emergency

• MuscatPrivateHospital-Outpatient

• OmanMedicalCollege

Ghubra• AlHayatPolyclinic• AlMaya

Hypermarket• AsterHospital• BankofBeirut• CoastaCoffee• CrepeCafé

• GMC-MoosaAbdulRahmanShowroom

• LuluHypermarket• Mocha&More

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

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

Showroom• OmanArabBank• OmanOilAhlain• Peugeot

Showroom• RangeRover-

MHD• Sayarati• ShellSelect• SkodaShowroom• SultanCentre

Azaiba• TowellAutoCentre

-Mazdashowroom• Volvo-MHD• WattayahMotors-

AUDIshowroom• WattayahMotors

-BENTLEYshowroom

• WattayahMotors-VWshowroom

• YamahaAirport• CarribouCoffee• MajanLounge• PlazaPremium

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

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

College• MarkazAlBahja• McDonald’s• Omantel• StarcareHospital• VLCCRusayl• KnowledgeOasis

Muscat-1• KnowledgeOasis

Muscat-2• KnowledgeOasis

Muscat-3• KnowledgeOasis

Muscat-4(ITA)• MiddleEast

College• Omantel• WaljatCollegeSQU• SQU-Diplomatic

Club• SQU-Collegeof

Commerce• SQU-Students

BankingArea• SQUH-Rception/

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

Resort• LuluHypermarketSawadi• SawadiBeach

ResortMassnaah• MillenniumHotelSohar• Centrepoint-

Splash• CrownePlaza• NationalGift

Market,FalajAlQabail

• Nawras• PizzaHut• SafeerMall• SoharBeachHotel• SoharPort• SoharuniversityNizwa• NizwaUniversity

@ytabloid facebook.com/ytabloid

fo l l o w u s o n :

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

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

CARS ANDADVENTURES

SkY HIGHWith the wind in your hair and the ocean at your feet, kitesurfing is one extreme sport

you don’t want to miss out on.

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 3 8

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 I n d o o r s C a r sCARS ANDADVENTURES

NIZWA FORTA stronghold against invaders during

Oman’s long history, the restored Nizwa Fort has many secrets to share,

says Jerzy Wierzbicki

Destination

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

Standing and looking at one of the most beautiful views that I have seen in Oman, I can only marvel at why it has taken me

seven years to find.Stretching out before me are

towering palm plantations, old mud-brick houses and the chocolate-brown jagged peaks of omnipresent mountains in the distance.

I feel like the king of my own castle, surveying my land.

I have to confess that I didn’t expect such beauty and charm from Nizwa Fort, which is perhaps one of the reasons I avoided it for the seven years that I’ve been living in Oman, preferring more little-known destinations.

But as it’s Oman’s most visited national monument, it was high time that I saw what all the fuss was about.

As many of you may already know, Nizwa is the old Omani capital, having had the honour in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. Even now, as you walk through the town, you can sense the glory days of its past.

Nestled just behind the market, the fort is impressive, a solid imposing structure that took 12 years to complete. Nizwa is surrounded by historical places, such as Hamra, Bahla – which has its own excellently restored fortification – and Jabreen and its castle. But Nizwa is by far the biggest and most heavily fortified of them all.

Built by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Y’aribi in the middle of the 17th century (the oldest signs of human settlement in the area are from the 12th century), it has a long and, at times, turbulent history.

Strolling around, you can picture

the fort under siege from marauding enemies intent on taking the landmark building.

It was certainly designed to withstand a fierce barrage of mortar fire with thick sturdy walls and heavy wooden doors. This was a fort not to be breeched.

As well as the 24 openings all around the top of the tower for mortar fire, there are 480 gun-ports for sustained fire should it come under attack.

Nizwa Fort really is massive. The main tower reaches almost 30 metres into the sky, studded with small openings for cannons to pound out heavy fire. With walls from the nearby market, its heavy defences were part of a huge wall system to protect the town from attack.

My first visit here was a few weeks ago. I’m ashamed to admit it now, but I’m not a fan of popular tourist sights or obvious locations that can be found by anyone. For years, I have managed to skirt Nizwa Fort as I searched out unusual places to visit.

My change of mind came after a friend, who has lived in Oman longer than me, suggested that I finally go. It was a perfect time to

visit, with hot but dry weather and the fierce sun covered by wisps of grey clouds.

My first impression when I stood opposite the unusually large main wooden doors to the fort was positive. Two old cannons, still proudly guard the entrance.

Inside the fort, I found typical Omani architecture. In the central part of the terrace

is a small shelter built with palm tree leaves, along with many examples of locally made pottery, most likely from the nearby Bahla factory.

I wanted to use the good weather

conditions to take some stunning shots of the town from the biggest tower. Climbing several dozen steps and arriving at the top a little out of breath, I discovered a perfect circular terrace framed by the walls. I climbed to the top, where one of the most incredible views I have seen in Oman so far was waiting for me.

Traditional mud brick houses were dotted between old palm plantations. The wind was stronger here, gently moving around me, and I could feel my spirit lift with the air.

I grabbed the widest lens I had and set up my camera on a small portable tripod and reduced the sensor’s speed to low. Using this setting, I could get much more detail and the final photographs were sharper.

Four cannons remain on the tower out of a total of 24, which once served as the fort’s main firepower. The tower provides a 360-degree view of the countryside. This made it virtually impossible for a surprise attack to be carried out, although it appears that some have tried judging by the cannonballs, misshapen with rust and age, that are scattered about.

I spent several minutes at the top of the tower and enjoyed every second of it. I was wrong to have not visited this place sooner – and I have vowed that it won’t take me as long to return.

HOW TO GET THERE

It’s a very easy run from Muscat, about 140km. The fort is located in the middle of the town, behind the market, and is

the biggest building around, so not difficult to spot.The fort is open to visitors during the week from 9am-4pm

and from 8am-11am on Fridays. Get to Nizwa earlier on a Friday and you can also drop into the famous goat market.TR

AVEl

GUI

DE

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 4 0

CARS ANDOUTDOORSCARS ANDADVENTURES

Tom Robertson takes a trip to one of the world’s top kitesurfing destinations – and it’s right here in Oman

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 5 0 4 1

O U T D O O 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 Y - F i C a r s

Bumping down a dusty track on the west coast of Masirah Island in a Land Cruiser, I wonder if it’s all

going to be worth it. A late-night departure from Muscat, a long drive to Shenah, a few hours of fitful sleep in the car at the ferry port, a crossing on a rust bucket of a ferry to Ras Hilf and, finally, an early morning trundle along the road to this isolated beach. And I haven’t even had a coffee.

Sandy flats stretch as far as the eye can sea and I can’t discern any sign of life nor water, even though I know the sea has to be near.

But then, out of the dry expanses rises a small camp. A line of tall, wooden huts appears in the distance, their colourful facades standing out against the white-yellow hue of the sand. This is Kiteboarding Oman’s Masirah Island camp.

Talking to Alexander Friesl – the founder and managing director of Kiteboarding Oman – it becomes apparent that my journey was relatively short compared with other guests. Fans of the sport are coming from as afar afield as northern Europe to experience one of the world’s top destinations for kiteboarding. Nestled on a beach where wind speed during the summer averages 25-40 knots, it’s proving a veritable worldwide magnet for adventure lovers.

If you’ve ever seen people whipping along Oman’s shores powered by nothing but a giant kite flying above them, then you’ll already have a fair idea of what the sport involves.

A mainstream watersport since the early 2000s, kiteboarding relies on a large powerful kite to propel the rider on a board over the sea’s surface and, sometimes, into the air for a variety of tricks and spins.

But they’re no ordinary kites. Based on a design that incorporates inflatable ridges and developed by two French brothers, Bruno and Dominique Legaignoux from the Atlantic coast of France, the kites can measure anywhere between seven and 12 square metres. But, filled with wind, the force that they generate can be frightening.

“You may want to stay put, but the kite may want to go in the other direction. You weigh just 80kg while a filled kite can exert the equivalent of 800kg. It’s going to be a pretty short argument,” laughs Alex.

Just how, I wondered, was it possible to control this Aeolian beast? It was this question that I was here to answer and, to help me do that, Alex had kindly agreed to

impart some of his considerable knowledge with a beginner’s course.

Heading down the beach for a kilometre, it’s easy to see why this is considered a kiteboarding mecca for some. The blue sky contrasts with the white sand, which then makes way for clear, turquoise waters. Coupled with a constant breeze during the summer months and shallow waters, it’s enough to draw kite boarders from around the Gulf and often further afield.

But before I take a dip, there’s a whole host of things I have to learn about the kite. What ensues is a brain-crunching test of memory as I try to mentally catalogue all the correct procedures for rigging the kite and the associated safety considerations.

After that initial in-depth session, Alex beckons me to the water’s edge and shouts, “Now let’s go fly that kite!”

After showing me how to work all the safety releases that will get me out of trouble should I find myself on the way to Iran, the kite is launched and we head into the water.

A series of confidence-building exercises steadily gets me used to controlling the kite. I’m soon being dragged through the water while I become accustomed to controlling the kite without the encumbrance of a board on my feet. And then, just as I think I’m getting the hang of it, I lurch forward uncontrollably, take a face full of seawater and the kite crashes into the sea.

Numerous similar attempts ensue, but with unusually failing winds that drop below the required eight knots, my session draws to a close all too soon. Nevertheless, I’ve had my first taste of kitepower and I love it.

I ask Alex, as a registered kite instructor, what it is about the sport that makes it so attractive (the camp is regularly at full capacity) and why people are willing to travel so far to this remote spot.

“I think it’s because kiteboarding is accessible to all who are willing to give it a go. And, once you’ve learnt how to do one move, there’s another trick just up the rung that’s readily achievable with a bit more practice. It’s full of challenges but it’s possible to keep improving – and steadily.”

And for me? Was it worth the trek all the way from Muscat?

Well, one day, somewhere in the world, an avid kiteboarder may well ask me if I’ve tried the sport and where. Is it wrong of me to picture their envy-ridden face now when I say somewhat smugly: “Yes, on Masirah Island, Oman.”

Kiteboarding OmanBasic six-hour course, 2-3 days - RO120 per person Located at Masirah Island 20°25’47.14’N ; 58°43’1.85’E And Sawadi Beach Resort info@kiteboarding-oman.com+968 96323524

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 4 2

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

My favourite place Cambridge is one of those places that has something for everyone, so there isn’t just one particular place for me. When visiting Cambridge you can’t miss out on punting. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat, which does not have a keel, and is propelled by means of a long pole. Punts were introduced as a pleasure craft in Edwardian times and since then, punting has become one of the most popular ways to see the famous bridges and colleges along the River Cam. If you can, have a go at punting yourself; if you’re able and fit, it’s surprisingly amusing and enjoyable. If you’d prefer someone else to do all the hard work while you sit back and relax as the world goes by, there are chauffeur punts. It’s more expensive but you will get a commentary of the various sights on the river and there will be no chance of you falling into the water!

Highlights A visit to Cambridge is not complete without taking time to visit the intriguing museums and the university to get the sensation of drowning in history and tradition that only seems to deepen the more you venture out. Cambridge is widely known as the home to the prestigious University of Cambridge, consistently ranked as one of the top five universities in the world. Sixty-one Nobel Prizes have been won by graduates from the hallowed halls of Cambridge. There are 31 colleges and most are open for visitors. Some charge a small fee and access may be limited during term time, so check before you go. For art afficionados, The Fitzwilliam Museum is a definite must-see. It contains the famous works of Picasso, Matisse and Constable. It also has collections of ancient artefacts from the Egyptian and Chinese civilisations. A visit to The Eagle pub is worthwhile, as it’s said to be the place where the form of DNA was discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick. It’s also a great place to just let go and have fun. Lowlights The climate. Visiting Cambridge at the right time of the year is essential. As the city is often cold, wet and misty during the winter, it can dampen the mood of the holiday. So it’s best to plan your trip in spring, summer or autumn. Any of these seasons are a good time to admire this stunning city. Souvenirs All kinds of souvenirs can be found, but steer clear of the cliché tourist T-Shirts and try This is Cambridge, a great shop to get quirky souvenirs about DNA and the rock band Pink Floyd (founded in Cambridge). For tea connoisseurs, England offers unique types of tea and packaging. I would recommend buying tea sold in tea caddy in the shape of a traditional British red telephone phone box. These cute containers are found in many local gift shops in the market square in the city centre. If you want a university souvenir, Ryder & Amies sells ties for each of the Colleges and has been the official university outfitter for more than 120 years.

Where to stay From five-star hotels for luxury to more modest places to stay, Cambridge can accommodate all budgets. If you have a big wallet, experience the striking Victorian building of the four-star University Arms Hotel, right in the heart of the old medieval town with major attractions like the River Cam, University of Cambridge and The Grafton Centre (a covered shopping centre) nearby. But for budget accommodation, I would recommend the Premier Inn, which is only a 10-minute drive from Cambridge’s historic centre and offers good facilities. There are also lots of cheap and cheerful youth hostels and bed and breakfasts around the city for a shorter stay.

CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND

UNIVERSITY OF CambRIDGE

PUNTING ON ThE RIVER Cam

Akshaya Ramalingam recommends

aVENUE OF LImE aND ChERRY TREES aT TRINITY COLLEGE

G reet ings from the we lcom ing un ivers i ty c i ty of Cambr idge . Wh i l e i t ’ s most famous for i ts Oxbr idge p lace of l earn ing , the c i ty has

other c la ims to fame : i t ’ s where the atom was f i rst sp l i t , where the structure of DNa was d iscovered, where the e lectron and neutron were

f i rst found and where Isaac Newton deve l oped h is theory of grav ity .about 80km north of London , th is compact c i ty has been home to some of the

wor ld ’ s greatest m inds of the past 500 years . I t ’ s a ls o one of the few c i t i es that can take your breath away w ith i ts exqu is i te arch i tecture , wh ich i s bu i l t on strong fundamenta l e l ements of h i story . Punt ing on the beaut i fu l and tranqu i l R iver Cam or re lax ing i n the neat ly man icured co l l ege gardens i s a great way to forget about da i l y troub les and bask in the seren i ty of th is i ntr i gu ing c i ty .

Cambr idge i s known wor ldw ide for i ts m ind-bogg l i ng mass of bra inpower that has passed through i ts wor ld-famous co l l eges . and a fresh new generat i on of des igner bout iques , coffee houses and s l i ck n i ght l i fe venues i s f ind ing a n i che among the i ntr i gu ing passageways and med ieva l do orways of the o ld t own .

J U N 1 2 - 1 8 / I S S U E 3 24 0 4 3

F E B 2 7 – M A R 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 90 4 4

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

EDITO

R’S P

ICK

TO THE EXTREMEWhen we face severe weather warnings, we begin to think

of safety and survival. Matt Herbst helps you gear up to weather the eventuality of a storm

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

0 4 4 J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 5

POWERFULLY PORTABLETHE ENERGiSER LED FOLDiNG LANTERN WiTH LiGHT FUSiON TECHNOLOGY IS A COMPACT LIGHT THAT COMES WITH A HUGE SHINE. THE ONLY DOWNFALL WITH THIS IN AN EMERGENCY IS THAT IT REqUIRES BATTERIES, SO KEEP IT ARMED WITH SPARES AND BE PREPARED FOR ANY EVENTUALITY. THE UPSIDE IS THAT THIS LIGHT CAN EASILY FIT IN YOUR POCKET AND THE BATTERIES LAST FOR UP TO 100 HOURS OF RUNNING TIME. THE LIGHT PANEL PIVOTS OPEN A FOR A 360-DEGREE AREA AND HAS A STAND ON THE BACK FOR STABILITY. NATURALLY IT IS WATER RESISTANT. AVAILABLE ON AMAzON FOR RO9.46

CRANK iT UP The handy Midland NOAA All Hazards AM/FM/Weather band radio is essential to have around in

case of extreme weather conditions, emergencies and power failures.

Not only does it receive AM and FM bands, but also

weather broadcasts and emergency system alerts.

If there’s a power cut, it can also recharge its

own batteries. But best of all, it can recharge most common mobile phones simply by turning the crank on its built-in generator. Adding to the bare essentials, this great device includes a built in 3 LED flashlight, digital clock with alarm, and thermometer with freeze alert. From RO23.09 at www.midlandweatherradios.com

FiRESTARTER This pocket-sized firestarter can be a real life saver during an emergency. A built-in flint, striker knife and magnesium fuel give you the ability to create dozens of fires in wet or windy conditions. The Coghlans 7870 Magnesium Fire Starter comes with a serrated blade edge for creating magnesium shavings and a full-length flint for making hot sparks, all in a waterproof and fire-resistant block form. The shavings are said to burn at 2,9820C. www.amazon.com for only RO1.76

PURiTY The Katadyn Vario Water Filter is, if anything, one of the most essential survival items to invest in. If water supplies are affected in extreme weather conditions, there’s no point in putting yourself at risk by turning on the tap. Should there be a worse-case scenario, this water filter could save your life. Its two-stage ceramic disc and glass fibre microfilter has an adjustable output for various conditions and with a simple turn, it engages the cleanable ceramic pre-filter when using dirty water. The glass-fibre filter removes the bacteria and the replaceable carbon core improves taste without the need for purification tablets. Available atwww.katadyn.com for RO31.50

F E B 2 7 – M A R 0 5 / I S S U E 3 0 9 0 4 5

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

0 4 5J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 5

KiT ON THE MOVE Every family should have a grab-and-go survival kit ready for any given situation. There won’t be time to find these things in an emergency. For peace of mind, click on to Amazon.com and order this compact 65-piece assistance kit. Some of the items you will find inside the AAA Severe Weather kit include a 46-piece first-aid kit, a folding shovel with sheath, three-piece fleece set, strobe light, emergency whistle, six emergency candles, waterproof matches, hand warmer packets and more. Worth investing in for a mere RO10.73 at www.amazon.com

NOAA WEATHER ALERTGet all the weather information you need to enjoy the best day possible with the most accurate forecast available, including extreme weather warnings, with The Weather Channel. Free on itunes.com

App of the week

ESSENTiALS The Midland GXT1000 36 Mile 50-Channel Water Resistant Radio features 50 channels that deliver clear communication with the flick of a button. In open areas with little or no obstruction, the range will be greater than the average 36-mile (58km) distance. It comes with 285 privacy codes, a weather alert with a scanning feature that locks on to your local weather channel and alerts you to severe weather. This radio will certainly keep you in the loop in the event of incoming hazardous weather. www.midlandweatherradios.com for RO25.02

MiDLAND 36 MiLE 50-CHANNEL WATER RESiSTANT RADiO

FOR HERThe essential Shemergency Kit contains everything a lady will need when there’s no time to grab a full dresser of beauty items if you are in a hurry. Whatever the case may be, the Shemergency Kit will have any woman looking and feeling her best in any situation. It comes with 27 compact solutions such as mending kits, hairspray, brush, lip balm, dental floss, deodorant towels and much more. A good investment. www.pinchprovisions.com RO13.47

22 channels plus 28 extra channels – clear communication with easy button access

Water resistant – protection against light rain or splashing water from all directions on the radio

285 privacy codes – gives you up to 6,270 channel options to help you block other conversations

36-mile range – longer-range in open areas with little or no obstruction SOS siren – allows you to send out

distress/locator signals in an emergency situation

Weather scanning – easily scans the active weather channel in your area

Direct call – allows you to instantly contact one member of your party without alerting the others

Channel scan - automatically checks channels for activity

Mic and headphone jacks

J U N 1 9 - 2 5 / I S S U E 3 2 50 4 6

Fast, glamorous and oozing class, Kate Ginn finds the Jaguar is a head-turning beauty that demands to be in the spotlight

CAR OF THE WEEK

Jaguar F-Type convertible 2015

SpecificationsEngine: 3.0 V6 340

SuperchargedTransmission: Eight-speed

Quickshift AutomaticHorsepower: 340

Acceleration: 0-100kmh in 5.3 seconds

Top Speed: 260kmh (limited)Price: From RO35,950

check this out

Driver and passenger airbags front and side

Front seat whiplash protection system

Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) 20” Blade Alloy Wheels Parking aid with front and

rear sensors Headlamp washers Rain sensing windscreen wipers Rear camera Dual chrome tailpipe Meridian 380W sound system Navigation System

Stop the search. Banish thoughts of any other - my heart is taken. I have found

my soulmate. I never believed in the idea of

love at first sight, but it happened to me in a car dealership in Azaiba this week.

Yes, that’s right, my hunt for the perfect car is over. It ended when I clapped eyes on the Jaguar F-Type Convertible V6 Supercharged, light grey in colour with red leather interior and roof, shimmering like a mirage in the sunshine, waiting for me.

The deal was sealed when I heard its engine burst into life, a low, throbbing, animal-like sound that reverberated through the air like the calling of big cat. Oh my.

This wonderful machine was mine for the day and it’s no exaggeration to say that I had waited all my life for this moment. I’ve been dreaming of driving a Jaguar ever since I was a little girl and finally being up close and personal with one was, quite simply, thrilling.

I almost wanted to keep pinching myself to make sure it wasn’t a dream. I really was behind the wheel of a RO35,950 Jaguar with the open road ahead, just the two of us.

Born in Britain, the Jaguar has always, for me at least, captured the essence of formal Britishness. It is elegant and refined, yet with a little bit of rakish raciness

underneath when required. Although the brand was sold to

Indian carmaker Tata Motors in 2008, the F-Type is still built in the U.K (production of the XJ and XF Jaguar cars are now made in Pune) and represents the Union flag with pride.

In fact, Jaguar has just been named best automotive brand in the UK in a survey by What Car? for the third year running.

The car itself has been refined and redefined over the years and the latest incarnation is an unashamed attention grabber. For a start, it looks absolutely stunning, a lithe, lean body, undulating this way and that, with perfect synchronicity. It’s like a work of art. Constructed from lightweight aluminium, the body is strong and rigid, and fundamental to the way the F-Type performs, handles and looks.

From the outside, I could almost detect the whiff of the finest leather interior, as if it had seeped through the doors. This, ladies and gentlemen, is the smell of money.

Inside, is an exquisite combination of ergonomics and luxury. The controls are simple and the instruments clear and concise.

As you would expect of a car at this price, everything is high-end, from the touch-screen display with navigation system and entertainment control, to the shiny stainless-steel touches.

Don’t for a moment think this

car is style over substance. Press the start button and the slumbering beast awakes. The engine purrs like a well-behaved kitty, albeit a very large one.

Switch to Sport mode, however, and it emits a satisfyingly deep-throated growl. The exhaust is loud and noisy enough to get you noticed. It’s a sound that I would never get bored of.

Put your foot down and the 3.0 litre V6 Supercharged engine responds with a thrust of raw power, leaping forward like a muscular big cat in pursuit of prey. This is a car that feels alive.

A cheetah can accelerate to 100kmh from a standing start in three seconds. My Jaguar wouldn’t be far behind, taking only 5.3 seconds.

As you have probably gathered, there’s nothing shy and retiring about this car.

Of course, a convertible is made to be driven with the top down – even during the height of an Omani summer. So I did. At the touch of a button, it took just 12 seconds for the roof to be lowered.

As I drove along Qurum’s beachfront, Katy Perry’s song Roar came on the radio and heads turned as we blasted past in a chic blur.

To reiterate, buying this car will cost you RO35,950 base (more to customise and extras). But it made me feel like a million dollars and that, in my view, is priceless.

they say: ‘Pure Driving Pleasure’

We say: ‘British big cat roars’

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 I n d o o r s Y - F i