y magazine #374, june 11, 2015
DESCRIPTION
Your top guide to the best of Oman, every week.TRANSCRIPT
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YOUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST OF OMAN, EVERY WEEK JUN 11 - 17 2015 / ISSUE 374 • WEEKLY
THE HEAT BEAUTY: How To Get Super Skin
News: WILL EXPAT EXODUS END WATER WOES?10
DANCING GIRLS SHINE ON STAGEWhat’s Oman Got In Store?GCC RETAIL GIANTS
RAMADAN AUTO GUIDE: Mid-Level Saloons
PL
US
!
BARMY FORBANANAS
COOLY-FI
INSTASTYLE 3231 44
Little Stars
SULTANATE SET FOR A SIZZLING SUMMER
IS ON
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 74 0 3
Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing &
Advertising LLC / Y is a SABCO Media product.
CEO Eihab Abutaha
We’d love to hear your news and views. For editorial enquiries, please
email [email protected]
EDITOR’S NOTE
Welcome to Y Magazine – your top
guide to the best of Oman every week.
Write to us at Y Magazine, SABCO Media, PO Box 3779, Ruwi 112, Sultanate of Oman.
/ytabloid ymagazine
FO L L O W U S O N :
Fast forwardIt’s confirmed: it is hotter now than it was this time last year and the above average
temperatures the Sultanate has been experiencing since May are set to continue for quite some time.
In our cover story this week, Y talks to a range of experts to understand what’s behind the recent sweltering conditions and discovers it originated as a heatwave in Pakistan that spread to India, killing 2,500 people, and has blown into the GCC.
The bad news is that relief is a long way off, with long-range forecasters telling us that it won’t be at least until the end of August until the temperature drops.
That’s not going to help the thousands of people suffering from the severe water shortages in the capital, some of whom are complaining that family members are becoming sick thanks to a lack of hygiene and the higher than average temperatures.
Meanwhile, we check out the best gadgets to help keep us cool in Y-Fi, explore The Sierra Nevada in the US in Postcard and find out why the “insta” look is all the rage in Fashion.
Have a great week and try to stay hydrated and cool!
Want to read Y on the go? Scan our digital issue here:Download any QR reader from iTunes or Google Play to read Y on the go
EDITOR IN CHIEFSayyida Iman bint Hamad
bin Hamood Al Busaidi
MANAGING EDITORFelicity Glover
DEPUTY EDITOR
Kate Ginn
ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst
SUB-EDITOR Matt Blackwell
PHOTOGRAPHER Shaquel al Balushi
INTERNS
Deeba HasanHibba al Kindi
DIRECTOR OF SALES
& MARKETING Feroz Khan
@ytabloid /ytabloid www.y-oman.com
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Online: Visit y-oman.com for even more inspiration.
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Ways to get your Y fix
Team Y enjoyed tasting a couple of birthday cakes to celebrate Merge
104.8’s fourth anniversary this week, continued the hunt for a new house and is looking forward to the end of the school year – even if it’s
still two weeks away!
THIS WEEK…
GOING UPHOME DELIVERIES
At least in our eyes. For the first time since Y’s managing editor Felicity
moved to Muscat, a restaurant deliverer actually found her house and delivered a piping hot meal to her door.
Well done, Noodle House!
GOING DOWNWATER SUPPLIES
Our water woes continue in the capital and beyond, with the Public Authority
for Water and Electricity this week warning residents that there will be no early end to the crisis. It’s going to be a
long, hot summer.
COMPETITION
THE BAROMETER
Our Chatime competition continues – can you come up with a delicious new flavour? Turn to P31 for details and to check if you are this week’s winner.
contentsJ U N E 1 1 - 1 7 2 0 1 5
Yo u r O m a n06 Coffee With Y Maria Al Balushi
08 Voice Of Oman Andrew Barrow
10 News Water Woes Continue
T h i s w e e k13 Movie Listings Woman In Gold
14 This Week Patissiere Patter
H e a l t h a n d B e a u t y32 Fashion Insta-Fashion
34 Beauty Super Skin
35 Health Small Steps To Better Health
10
32
Fo o d a n d D r i n k30 Food Feature Yellow Power
30
Fe at u r e16 The Heat Is On Residents Swelter In Heatwave Conditions
19 Ramadan Car Guide Top Auto Deals
29 #FYI 10 Highest Temperatures Ever Recorded On Earth
C a r s a n d A d v e n t u r e s38 Destination Harat Seebani
40 Indoors Little Stars
42 Postcard From The Sierra Nevada, US
44 Y-Fi Stay Cool
46 Y Photo Of The Week Boys In Blue
44
RAMADAN GIVEAWAYS/CAR GUIDE/ POSTCARD / MOVIES / NEWS /FASHION / Y-FI / HEALTH / FOOD
NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...
14 16
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Maria al Balushi
A t first glance, Maria Al Balushi is just like any other 17-year-old girl. She goes to school, spends time with her family and hangs out with her friends. But what sets Maria apart is that she is ranked as the top female chess player in the Sultanate.
It all started at home. Maria’s earliest childhood memories are of watching her relatives play chess. “Everyone in my family plays it,” Maria tells me. “I remember watching them play and play and I never got bored. I wanted to learn how to play so bad!” As she grew up, Maria soon learned how to play chess from her parents and uncles, but she never thought that she would compete.At 14, Maria participated in her first chess competition. “It was a game held at school. I wasn’t expecting to win or anything, I just did it for fun.” But to everyone’s surprise, Maria won. And she also won in the following local, regional and national games until she qualified to represent Oman in the 2015 Asian Zonal Championship. The Championship, which was hosted by the Omani Chess Committee (OCC), was Maria’s first major competition. At 17, she was competing against older
and some of the world’s most experienced chess players. At first, Maria was shocked when she learned how long the games were. “I am usually used to playing for 15 minutes, whereas in the Championship it took the player 15 minutes to make a move and a game would go on for three hours!” Nevertheless, Maria was able to overcome this obstacle. “It was a wonderful and exhilarating experience and I learned a lot from it.” She was impressed and amazed by the other competitors. “Everything about them was just so sophisticated; the way they play, their mindsets, their plans and skills and even their professionalism.” But Maria says she also encountered some difficulties during the competition. “Some of the rules that I was taught to play by differed from the international rules, so it took me a while to get used to them.” With the help and support of her family and her coaches, she was able to overcome them. “I am so thankful and grateful for all the support I have been getting from my family, my coaches and our gracious Government”.
One thing Maria has noticed is the absence of Omani women in the chess world. “Girls competing in
chess in Oman is a rare thing. That is very sad.” At the end of the day, Maria believes that the game of chess is an important skill to learn for everybody.“Chess is not just
about moving pieces on checkerboard; it’s more than that,” says Maria, who believes that chess is a noble game. “It develops your mind and teaches you a lot, like patience, for example – something we Arabs need,” she says, laughing. “But in all seriousness, I strongly urge everyone to play chess.”
Unfortunately, Maria is taking a break from chess next year to focus on her senior year of high school. When asked whether she would consider an education and a career in chess, she says she’d love to, but the opportunity hasn’t been presented to her yet. Hopefully, Maria will get the opportunity to develop her talent further, which would be a shame if it is wasted. But, what I do know is that we will have to keep our eyes on her. Want to learn to play chess? Maria practices her moves daily at www.chess24.com.
Have you got a unique story to tell or do you know someone who has? Contact us to have coffee with Deeba and be featured in Y Magazine. Email: editor@y-oman.
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This week, Hibba al Kindi meets Maria al Balushi who, at just 17, is ranked the top female chess player in Oman and last week made her debut in an international competition
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PAWS FOR THOUGHT
correspondenceTHE VOICE OF OMAN ANDREW BARROW ON LEAVING OMAN
NEXT WEEK: KARIMA FARID
SEND US YOUR letters, photos, news and views to [email protected] / @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
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Almost two-and-a-half years ago, I stepped off a Qatar Airways flight into a warm January Omani evening,
arriving to set up the library at a new college, the Military Technological College, being established to train engineers for the Sultan’s Armed Forces.
And now, college established and college library set up, it’s nearly time to go back to the United Kingdom to, as my wife puts it, “retire properly”.
During my time here, I have come to love Oman and the Omani people, who I have found to be relaxed, friendly, good-humoured and welcoming. I have tried to make the most of my time here: I have explored the country, assaulted the mountains, relaxed in Musandam and I hope, before I go, to get down to Salalah in Oman’s cool, green south.
My family has had a Christmas out here and two particular friends have become so besotted with the Sultanate that they have visited me three times in 18 months.
Although the job has been difficult at times I am leaving sound foundations for a local librarian to build upon, something of which I am proud. I expect my bookcase at home will slowly acquire books on Oman and the Gulf region (30 years ago, I was a college librarian in Bahrain) and I am making sure that I take an Omani flag home to hang from our home on National Day.
I will miss the country and my friends, Omani and expatriate, greatly, but I wouldn’t have missed the experience for the world.
Dear Y,
I have a sad and disturbing tale to relate. A friendly, young, male wadi dog arrived at my farm a week ago. Maybe dumped, as he was so tame, or maybe he was a stray. He befriended me and I quickly put his picture and details on an animal welfare site.
Amazingly, a young lady contacted me and came round, but he was too big to pick up and would not allow us to put a collar on him, so she said she would come daily to feed him until Sunday, when she would come with a strong man who would help lift the dog into the car. Apparently on Saturday afternoon he wandered into a housing complex, a small Saudi boy was frightened so his dad called the ROP. I was out.
By 5pm the police came and shot him dead. What concerns me is that this summary execution was carried out without any questions asked. Who does this dog
belong to? Is he dangerous? Even the farm worker tried to say that a lady would catch and take him the following day, but being a lowly labourer compared with a Saudi citizen with clout, no heed was taken. He was totally friendly, tame and playful. I had called him Sunny. RIP.
Georgina Benison, Oman
BE GREENDear Y,
Further to your cover story last week on World Environment Day (Issue 373), first and foremost plastic bags should be banned in all supermarkets in Oman. Biodegradable items, such as plates and cups, should be encouraged for parties and other get-togethers. People in Oman should learn to share their cars with their friends and family, thereby reducing the traffic and saving fuel.
Aruna Ramachandran, Muttrah, Muscat
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WE ASKED: “What can be done to stop or help the flood of migrants risking their lives on treacherous sea journeys to find safe havens?”
SYED BOKHARI The only way to stop the migrants from leaving their own homeland is by providing their nationals with security and better living conditions; giving them shelter and employment to make both ends meet. Only then will this flood of entry to other countries, whether legally or illegally, be stopped. Nobody wants to leave his or her home if they are being rewarded for hard work and honesty. If not, this only urges them to risk their lives by crossing the border for a better living for their family.
HARSH LARA It would be a near impossible task to stop the migrants from attempting to travel to a safer place. However, the risk involved in such a journey can be altogether avoided by setting up intermediaries who would take the responsibility of getting the migrants across safely and handle the paperwork related to the legal process of immigration. The migrants often find themselves in a helpless situation as they flee from a massacre in their homeland only to find themselves in new inhospitable territory. Xenophobia is another problem faced by immigrants as they try to survive in a new state. Aid groups could perhaps give the immigrants temporary places to stay in till they find jobs.
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New Debate:“Is the Public Authority for
Electricity and Water doing enough to solve
the critical water shortage in Muscat and other areas?”
Tell us on Facebook or Twitter and be in with a chance of
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ALLAN YASSER ZETA ABDULAFinding a solution to the issue is easier said than done. Everyone can blame the government of the state for not providing employment and better living conditions, but the fact of the matter is that there is very little that the government can do. All I can think of is to allow better and faster immigration processes for people who need to leave their countries.
SARAH JANE The International Court should take action to see to it that the solution is not to find home for the migrants, but being involved in making sure that their own countries are safe and peaceful enough to settle in, as people need the security of living in their own “homes”.
VIBHA SIMHA The smuggling of migrants is by nature a transnational crime, and the smugglers involved work in networks. Key to combating the smuggling of migrants, therefore, is the need to increase international cooperation, reinforce national coordination and ensure that the laws in the countries involved are harmonised in order to close loopholes.
HENRY MATTHEWS It’s the exit country’s responsibility to tighten their borders and manage their seas. They should better control their waters. And then these things won’t happen or it will become harder for people to leave. Otherwise, dingys are being pulled up to shore, ruthlessly loaded up with people who are paying a ridiculous amount of money, and then the guys responsible for this are just leaving them to the mercy to the currents of the sea. There should also be some sort of agreement between the exit country and the surrounding countries that these dingys are heading towards, that the migrants who do land have to be securely led back from where they came from, whatever their situation is. If they want to apply to live in another country, they have to apply for refugee status like everyone else.
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N E W S
The Public Authority for Electricity and Water (PAEW) is banking on a mass exodus of expatriates going home for the summer to ease the severe water
shortages in Muscat and surrounding areas.With temperatures soaring and residents
complaining of no water supplies for up to two months, the situation has reached a critical level in the capital.
In an interview with local press, HE Mohammed Bin Abdullah al Mahrouqi, the chairman of the PAEW, said the second desalination plant at Al Ghubra would begin trial operations on July 2 and be fully operational from September 14.
“This date was fixed following discussion with contractors involved in the project,” he was quoted as saying.
The opening of the new Ghubra Desalination Plant was slated for January this year, but this has been delayed to September.
In February, the PAEW announced a massive project to replace Muscat’s rusting water pipes. On February 12, water supplies were shut down for three days across Muscat to allow for urgent maintenance work. But since then, the situation has worsened, with many residents complaining of either low water pressure or no water at all.
However, al Mahrouqi said he hoped the worst of the water crisis would soon be over as demand traditionally peaks in the months of May and June.
“Also with school vacations set to begin in the next few weeks, demand for water may subside with both citizens and residents of Muscat likely to return to their native homes for the summer break,” al Mahrouqi said.
According to one news report, the worst affected areas are Wadi Adai, Seeb, Bausher, Mabela, Al Khuwair, Muttrah, Darsait and Al Ansab.
In a special investigation two weeks ago (Issue
371), Y found that some residents in Muttrah had suffered without water for two months, while the average time was anywhere between a few days to weeks. Others complained of a lack of hygiene and said some family members had been hospitalised.
Water tanker drivers are also being accused of cashing in on the crisis by spiking their prices to RO150 for 10,000 gallons of water, from RO90 previously.
“The water tanker makes demands for higher rates,” one resident of Barka told Y. “Most of the families are unable to afford the amount they demand.”
Meanwhile, at a meeting earlier this week, the Majlis Al Shura announced it had formed a working group to monitor the water shortages.
Will it or won’t it? That was the question on everyone’s lips and on social media after reports
that Tropical Cyclone Ashobaa may be heading in Oman’s direction and make landfall.
Early images of the swirling storm showed it was in the Arabian Sea, heading towards the Sultanate and Pakistan. Moving at a speed of 35-40 knots and with wind gusts of up to 80kph, forecasters warned it was on course to make landfall towards the end of this week.
But by Tuesday (May 9), Ashobaa seemed to have slightly altered its path – as tropical storms often do –
TROPICAL STORM ALERT
SUMMER EXODUS EXPECTED TO EASE WATER SHORTAGES
and some media were reporting that it would miss Oman altogether.
However, the Tropical Storm Centre was still issuing warnings and said the storm, which was 800km east of Muscat at the time, may strike Oman near Sur within 48 hours. The Centre issued a yellow alert, which means 50 per cent probability the storm would hit land in Pakistan, Oman and Iran, potentially bringing heavy rain and strong winds.
Weather forecasts for the Sultanate as Y went to press on Tuesday said there was a chance of rain for Muscat and parts of Oman from yesterday (May 10) and cloud for three days. Rough seas were also likely.
Oman’s Directorate General of Meteorology also had red alert warnings for thunderstorms across Oman on its website.
Latest satellite images showed the edge of the spinning cyclone brushing the edge of Oman’s coast.
AccuWeather, a worldwide weather forecaster, urged all residents from northeastern Oman to southwestern Pakistan to monitor the progress of Ashobaa and prepare for potential impact.
“It is better to prepare now than to be caught unprepared,” said AccuWeather meteorologist Anthony Sagliani.
* Is Oman in for a long, hot summer? See P16
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 74 0 1 1
Q atar has taken the Middle East retail market by surprise to emerge as the world’s fourth-most attractive retail
investment hub, according to AT Kearney’s latest Global Retail Development Index.
The report, global Retail Expansion: An Unstoppable Force, ranked China first in a list of the top 30 most attractive retail markets. Qatar came in at number four, while the UAE, the region’s most popular shopping destination that has two of the world’s biggest malls, slipped three places to number seven.
Oman dropped nine places in the index to come in at number 26.
Despite the drop in the price of oil over the past year, AT Kearney said the Middle East’s retail sphere looked strong.
With total retail sales at US$12.4 billion (RO4.77bn) in 2014, Qatar has seen an extraordinary boost in retail development on the back the FIFA World Cup, which it is hosting in 2022. However, FIFA officials, which are currently mired in an FBI corruption investigation, this week cast some doubt on Qatar hosting the football world’s biggest event, as well as Russia in 2018.
Describing Qatar as a “new jewel in the Middle East”, AT Kearney said in its report that it had made an “impressive GRDI debut”.
“With population growth and an increasing number of expats, Qatar is no longer a market to ignore,” it said. “Until recently, international brands were limited by insufficient retail supply. This is changing as Doha welcomes 1 million square metres of retail space in the next two to three years.”
AT Kearney said that while the UAE’s retail market continued to grow steadily, it fell to seventh place because of new entries in the GRDI rankings.
“Although the market is near saturation, Dubai is cementing its position as the Middle East’s retail hub,” AT Kearney said.
Total retail sales in Oman hit US$11.9 billion last year, according to the report. However, it found that the outlook for the Sultanate remained positive.
“The market still shows plenty of retail potential, but retail development has been slower than other markets in the region and remains quite capital-centric,” it said.
“Oman has a small population and a relatively low GDP per capita among Gulf nations, but it is fairly untapped in terms of international retail presence. Retail sales are expected to grow at a steady 6 per cent through to 2020.”
However, the retail market in the Sultanate is set for significant expansion, with several large-scale projects already under way, such as
QATAR TOPS REGION FOR RETAIL INVESTMENT
Panorama Mall, Oman Mall, Muscat Festival City and Muscat Downtown Mall, as well as the recent opening of The Avenues Mall in Al Ghubra.
“All told, retail space is expected to grow by more than a third over the next couple of years,” AT Kearney added. “In addition to mega malls, smaller neighbourhood malls are expected to grow rapidly to serve the needs of local communities far from Muscat malls.”
1. China2. Uruguay3. Chile4. Qatar5. Mongolia6. Georgia7. United Arab Emirates8. Brazil9. Malaysia 10. Armenia11. Turkey12. Indonesia13. Kazakhstan14. Sri Lanka15. India
16. Peru17. Saudi Arabia18. Botswana19. Panama20. Colombia21. Russia22. Azerbaijan23. Nigeria24. Philippines25. Jordan26. Oman27. Kuwait28. Costa Rica29. Mexico30. Angola
2015 Global Retail Development Index
JURASSIC WORLD
It’s been 22 years since the original classic Jurassic Park roared like a T-Rex onto screens and now we are back with a bigger dinosaur theme park and even bigger scaly monsters. With visitor numbers declining, the corporate bods want a new attraction, which goes horribly wrong. Chris Pratt is the dinosaur-fighting hero.
Kids' Choice
Always Watching: A Marble Hornets Story
Written by Ian Shorr and directed by James Moran, this is based on the popular online alternative reality game, The Slender Man. A small-
Woman In Gold
MOVIES MOVIEStown news crew finds a collection of video tapes in a strange house. The content of the tapes shocks them: a faceless man in a dark suit haunting and terrorising a family, driving them off the edge of sanity. Soon after discovering the tapes, the team realises that the “Operator” (Doug Jones) is stalking them. Not for those of a nervous disposition.
Survivor
While attempting to prevent a terrorist attack targetting New York, a US embassy official in London, Kate Abbott, (Milla Jovovich) is forced to go into hiding after being framed for crimes she did not commit. In a change from being on the good side as 007, Pierce Brosnan has fun playing a sinister snarling assassin. Director James McTeigue does his best, but it’s all a bit lumbering.
A MOUSE TALE To save their kingdom from evil rodents, two young mice, Sebastian and Samantha (voiced by Nickelodeon stars Drake Bell and Miranda Cosgrove), go on a quest in the forbidden world of giants to find a legendary magic crystal that has the power to restore order to their homeland. Old hand Tom Arnold does a nice turn as Dalliwog the Wizard, in a charming animated adventure, which will delight small and big kids.
True stories are always potential movie gold – and the source material for Woman In Gold is 18 carat. It tells the remarkable true story of one woman’s journey to reclaim her heritage and seek justice for her family.
Sixty years after being forced to flee her native Vienna during World War Two, elderly Jewish woman Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren) sets out to get back the five paintings stolen from her family by the Nazis, including Gustav Klimt’s famous masterpiece The Woman in Gold, a portrait of Maria’s aunt Adele Bloch-Bauer.
With her young and inexperienced lawyer, Randy (Ryan Reynolds), they
take on the Austrian establishment, all the way to the US Supreme Court. It means Maria has to return to Vienna and confront her own demons, including leaving behind the parents she never saw again when she escaped.
Oscar-winner Mirren is in terrific form, capturing the inner torment of a woman returning to her past, while Reynolds does strong work too. There are some tear-jerk moments of poignancy in a film that packs an emotional punch, although disappointingly not as much as it perhaps should.
Review by Kate Ginn
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REALIZING GOALSfor corporate success through service excellence
Committed to a customer-focused approach for realizing corporate goals and backing ambitious strategies. Marking the journey with remarkable milestones.
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Postal Code: 114, Sultanate of Oman,
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A W E E K I N P I C T U R E S
FIFA official claims it will strip Russia and Qatar of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups if evidence emerges of bribery in the bidding processes. The organisation later denies the claim, but investigations have begun
HEADLINING STORIES FROM THE REGION AND BEYOND
Disgraced South African Paralympian Oscar Pistorius is set to be released in August, just 10 months into a five-year prison sentence after being found guilty of culpable homicide in the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013
South Korea reports sixth Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) death as the total number of infections now stands at 87, in the largest outbreak of the virus which has seen 2,500 people placed in quarantine and nearly 2,000 schools closed down
Apple announces a new app combining a streaming song and music video library, and an internet radio station, to challenge Spotify, Tidal and other music apps
G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w N E W S
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THE P
ERFE
CT FR
IDAY
T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E
Good news as the Sifway Boutique Hotel announces it is relaunching its famous Friday family brunch. Available every Friday at the all-day dining Al Sabla restaurant from 12noon-4pm, with live cooking stations and popular favourite dishes. Children under six years dine for free. Prices start from RO15, inclusive of water and soft drinks and RO20, inclusive of bubbles. For reservations, call +968 2474 9111. Browse sifawyhotel.com for more info
Patissiere Patter
Super MamasNeed to keep your little ones amused and cool over summer? Sign up for the Mamas 123 school initiation programme for mothers and children aged one to three years old. Lets mums and their youngsters socialise, bond and learn together in a stimulating environment. Activities are sensory, physical, literary, creative, social, cognitive and fun. Mondays and Wednesdays, from 9.30am-11am with a snack in between. Starts June 8 and runs for six weeks until July 5. You can book for as many weeks as you like. Themes include Mommy & Me, Nature, Water and Food. Run by My Book & Me, an educational centre and library, in Azaiba, Muscat. For bookings, call +968 9411 1166.
12June
As the weather changes, it’s time for Muscat Hills Golf & Country Club to bring back the popular Sundowners slot. Book nine holes of golf every Thursday afternoon and pay just RO4 (members) and RO15 (visitors), the price of which includes a complimentary beverage after the game. Available every Thursday afternoon. Sponsored by Millennium Resort Mussanah and OUA. To book your tee time, call +968 2451 4080. Check out muscathillsgolf.com and facebook.com/muscat.hills
INTO THE SWING
11JUNE
Local author Jane Jaffer’s work of historical fiction brings to life Omani princess Sayyida Salme, daughter of Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaid, the Sultan of Oman and Zanzibar from 1807 to 1856, and that of her mother, Djilfidan. It was their tales of overcoming adversity and finding love far from their homelands that provided the inspiration for the book. The result is a fascinating glimpse into a world where the women defied conventions and battled against prejudice.Published by Mazoon, Love in the Time of Zanzibar is available in all good bookshops, including the Let’s Read Book Shop in the Qurum Complex (CCC), the Family Book Shop in Madinat Sultan Qaboos, as well as WHSmith.L
ove
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ime
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& every friday
From June 08
until July 15
Ever wanted to know the kitchen secret of how to make perfect choux pastry, cakes and more? This course by the National Hospitality Institute in Muscat will show you how to crack the culinary code to turn out the best profiteroles in town. Tips and methods will be given, with demonstrations and practical sessions to get your hands dirty with flour. Course runs for six Saturdays from June 13 to July 18. Time 9.30am-12.30am. Course fee RO150. Register now by calling +968 2481 6313, WhatsApp +968 9824 6267 or email [email protected]
From June 13
BUT NOT THIS HOT
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 740 1 6
The first signs started last month, just over 1,000 kilometres away as the crow flies from Oman
to Nawabshah, a city north of Hyderabad in central Pakistan. A lush agricultural region, its population is used to a dry, hot climate with daily temperatures at this time of year in the low 40°C range.
But when the mercury hit 49°C four days in a row in only mid-May, the locals knew something was afoot. Weather forecasters soon confirmed what they already knew: the country was in the grip of a heatwave. And it was on the move.
The burning swathe of heat spread across the country and crossed the border into India, where the brutal temperatures have, up to June 4, claimed more than 2,500 lives, making it the fifth-deadliest heatwave in recorded history.
Roads melted in New Delhi as temperatures hovered 12.2°C above average for nearly two weeks. According to the Indian
government’s National Disaster Management Authority website, the country is experiencing more intense heatwaves frequently due to global climate change.
The heatwave pushed south, blowing across the Arabian Sea to Oman, the UAE and other parts of the GCC, where the punishing conditions have been taking their toll ever since.
In the UAE, where temperatures have risen three to five degrees Celsius since the start of June, the highest daytime temperature in the world was recorded at Sweihan, Abu Dhabi, with 50.5°C. Doha also saw a high of 46.1°C at the beginning of June.
Oman has regularly been recording temperatures in the mid-to-high 40s and last week, the thermometer reached 49°C in Khasab.
“This year, it’s got hotter earlier than the usual months,” says Muscat resident Dimple Jayraj Bhatia.
“The temperature has already reached 45-47 in May itself. Also, I see a rise in skin disease and lots of people falling sick. And with the ongoing water and electricity problems, dealing with the heat has become unbearable.”
Her sentiments are being echoed across Oman – apart from the south, of course, where Salalah residents are basking in cooling breezes, cloudy skies and enviable temperatures a good 10°C lower than the north – as people struggle to cope with the unexpected spike in heat.
It’s as if, as a Muscat resident said upon returning to Oman after three weeks away, “someone has turned up the oven”.
Hospitals and clinics are reporting more cases of heatstroke and dehydration, while the high levels of heat and humidity have been blamed for an outbreak of scarlet fever in Muscat in the past week.
Calls were made for an early introduction of the midday summer break, stipulating that workers
outdoors must down tools between the hours of 12.30pm to 3.30pm. In the end, it started as usual – on the first day of June.
The bad news is that it’s not going to improve – at least not for a while. In fact, it may get worse before it gets better.
There is the possible impact of Tropical Cyclone Ashobaa, which is loitering in the Arabian Sea and heading for the coast of Oman and Pakistan. If it doesn’t dissipate or veer off course, Ashobaa was predicted to make landfall either yesterday (June 10) or today, bringing with it cloud and possible rain.
It will, however, be nothing more than a temporary relief in what in all likelihood will be a long, hot spell in the Sultanate and throughout the Arabian Peninsula.
“We will be looking at warmer than normal temperatures for much of the summer, and a few highs near 50°C for the region are certainly possible,” says Evan Duffey, a meteorologist at AccuWeather, a company that provides forecasts worldwide.
“The real heatwave began in Muscat on May 24 and since then, temperatures have averaged 3.8°C above normal.”
Coupled with the longest fasting hours for Ramadan in 32 years – more than 15 hours a day – and the start of the Holy Month just a week away, it’s all conspiring to be the summer version of the “Perfect Storm” thanks to a combination of adverse meteorological factors.
According to Duffey, the hot spell is down to high pressure over the region and warmer than usual sea-surface temperatures.
Extreme weather whips up extreme weather stories. And the
The country has been sweltering in 40-plus-degree temperatures and it’s officially hotter than this time last year. Get ready for a long, scorching summer, say Kate Ginn and Deeba Hasan
HOT...HOT...S o m e L i k e I t
BUT NOT THIS HOT
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 74 0 1 7
by how nice the summer was compared to Dubai, which I used to live in before.”
Jessica Wittmann Dakin adds: “You have to look at the heat index as well as just the actual temperature. Saturday was 37°C, however, it had a feel like temp of 55.
“It’s hot here and the hottest months are usually now. Perhaps with some of the other issues such as lack of water people are really feeling the pinch.”
Sumayyah Sheikh, a 22-year-old university student in Muscat, who is preparing to fast for Ramadan, says: “Though the heat will be at its peak and the fasting period will be really long, I don’t think it will hinder my fast as the double rewards will keep me motivated throughout. I hope everyone is able to observe Ramadan well.”
When extreme heat comes, so do health problems. One doctor at the Badr Al Samaa Hospital in Ruwi said they were receiving at least eight patients complaining of heat-related illnesses every day.
Posting on MWCIF? Prachi Sharma tells Y: “Me and my little baby got fever due to the hot climate.
“Now we are fine, but I suggest everyone drink lots of fluids and avoid going out in the sun especially with babies.”
Dr Mohammed Salim, a general practitioner at Dar Al Shifa Medical Centre in Muscat, says people are at risk of a range of illnesses during rising temperatures.
“In such intense summers, people are prone to developing sunburn, and children and adults are prone to symptoms of fatigue and dehydration,” he tells Y.
“Many people don’t drink enough water and children go out to play in the sun without wearing sunblock.
“I also get patients suffering from fever and once summer starts, there is a rise in patients with symptoms.”
Others point out that we live in the Middle East and should be prepared
Gulf has been no exception.Reports last week that Riyadh
could even see 65°C during Ramadan sparked a heated debate on social media. Climatologist Abdul Rahman Mohammed al Ghamdi claimed it would hit 65°C in direct sunlight on or about June 21 in the Kingdom, citing the hot and humid depression in India, carbon emissions from factories and car exhausts as the cause.
While most weather experts were quick to dismiss the claims as nothing more than hot air – it would be a world record if true and readings in direct sunlight can hit much higher than even 65°C, meaning such a figure is virtually meaningless – it is not without some foundation.
An official from the Directorate General of Meteorology is not exactly painting a sunny outlook for the near future.
“The entire region is suffering from dry wind. The temperature recordings are almost the same everywhere in the region,” said an official.
AccuWeather’s Duffey predicts a “few highs near 50°C” for the region, but says anything around 55°C would be difficult to achieve (the highest temperature ever recorded in history is 56.7°C in California in 1913, measured “in the shade”).
Looking into the weather crystal ball is not an exact science and the unpredictability means no one really knows what’s around the climate corner.
Certainly, Oman’s residents are feeling the heat this year.
“It got hotter earlier, that’s for sure. Usually here in Sur, it doesn’t hit 40 degrees till May. This year, it was mid-March when we started seeing 40-degree weather,” says Becky Adams on social media forum Muscat Where Can I Find? (MWCIF?)
“This summer is really way too hot,” agrees Babo Sonyeo. “I am actually having difficulty walking under the hot sun at 2.30pm as no taxis pass by my workplace. Due to this, I’ve been experiencing chronic headaches and fatigue.”
Bahjat Haddad says: “This is my third summer here and the worst so far in terms of weather. The first summer I spent here I was impressed
for the scorching summers that come with the territory.
“I’ve been here 23 years and every year we complain and swear that it is hotter than the year before,” says Kathryn Ring. “I think May and June are the worst months because our bodies [and our minds] have to adjust to the higher temperatures. This is Oman. We can complain all we want, but it is what it is. Hot? Stay hydrated.”
Staying hydrated is all well and good, but large parts of Muscat are still gripped in the ongoing water crisis, which has seen homes left without supplies for weeks on end or with low water pressure.
“Without water you can’t survive, three members of my family were hospitalised, including my mom,” says Muneeb Abbas Bhutta.
Daniel Nash, another Oman resident, says: “I’ve also had bad headaches and fatigue. This is my fourth year here and not experienced it before. It’s gone now, thankfully. At least we have water.”
Thankfully, there is a cloud on the weather horizon. Oman is not facing the worst summer in its history and we can expect it to cool down a little, says weatherman Duffey.
“Temperatures for the region may climb a few degrees higher over the coming weeks. However, the high temperatures, at least in Muscat, occur in mid-June. So there are chances of extreme heat dropping off by the end of the month.”
Until then, Oman’s residents can only grin and bear it – preferably wearing a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
* For the hottest temperatures ever recorded, see P29
HOT...HOT...
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 740 1 8
16.000 net per person13.000 net per person for a group of 10 or more
STA
Y C
OO
L
● Stay indoors where possible● Drink lots of water (at least three litres a day)● Use an umbrella as a sun shield when outside● Keep head and body covered● Eat light food● Seek medical advice if you develop a fever or symptoms of heat exhaustion.
These include: confusion, dark-coloured urine (a sign of dehydration), dizziness, fainting, fatigue, headache, muscle or abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
TIPS ON HOW TO BEAT THE WEATHER
GCC HEAT MAPMERCURY, MERCURY ON THE WALL, WHICH IS THE HOTTEST OF THEM ALL?Hottest temperature so far this year around the GCC
Saudi Arabia
44 degrees celsius
Kuwait45 degrees
celsius Bahrain 43 degrees
celsius
Qatar46.1
degrees celsius
UAE50.5 degrees
celsius (highest daytime temperature in
the world so far this year)
Oman49 degrees
celsius
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* Source: coolchannel4
And the record that never was…On September 13, 2013, the World Meteorological Organisation disqualified the record for the highest-recorded temperature exactly 90 years after it had been established at El Azizia, Libya, with a measurement of 58 degrees (136ºF). The decision was taken after an in-depth investigation by an international meteorological team found systematic errors in the 1922 reading and concluded it was probably inaccurate.
56.7 degrees
(134.6ºF), Death Valley, California
July 10, 1913The official highest-recorded temperature,
ratified by the Guinness World Records, was when the mercury at Greenland Ranch (Furnace Creek Ranch) at Death Valley in Eastern California hit a
scorching 56.7 degrees. At that temperature, you can actually fry an egg in a pan on a rock (and
visitors to Death Valley try it every summer). Which makes Oman’s summer seem rather
tame in comparison. In recent times, the highest-recorded temperature in June in
the Sultanate was 49 degrees (that’s 120.2ºF).
55 degrees
(131ºF), Kebili, Tunisia
July 7, 1931
54 degrees
(129.2ºF), Tirat Zvi Israel
June 2, 1942
53 degrees (127.4ºF),
Ali Air Base, Nasiriyah, Iraq
August 3, 2011
52.6 degrees (126.7ºF),
Omidiyeh, Khuz-estan Province,
IranAugust 20,
2010
53.6 degrees (128.5ºF), Sulaibiya, Kuwait
July 3, 2012
53.5 degrees (128.3ºF),
Mohenjo-daro, Sindh province,
Pakistan May 26, 2010
52 degrees (125.6ºF),
San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora,
MexicoJuly 6, 1966
52 degrees (125.6ºF),
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
June 22, 2010
50.7 degrees (123.3ºF),
Oodnadatta, South Australia
2 January 2, 1900
1.
2.
3. 4.5.
7.
6.
10.
9.8.
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 740 3 0
FOOD
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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
MELLOW YELLOWBananas are one of the most convenient super foods around and are a great snack for people
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YELLOW POWERBananas are a nutrient-rich food choice and provide a sweet alternative to unhealthy snacks
For your chance to win a RO10 voucher, simply come up with a
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They might not be the most appealing-looking of fruits, but the humble banana is a super food that should be part of your daily diet.
Wonderfully luscious with firm and creamy flesh, bananas come prepackaged in their own yellow jackets and are available for harvest throughout the year, meaning they are available at supermarkets any month.
Even better, Oman grows its own bananas, the small and super sweet variety from Salalah. The Sultanate produces around 34,000 tonnes of bananas annually.
The average person eats quite a few bananas every year – and it’s no wonder, bananas not only taste great, they are also good for your health, packing a potassium punch like no other fruit.
As an excellent source of dietary fibre, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and other nutrients, bananas are low in calories, have no fat, sodium or cholesterol. So incorporating them into your diet just makes sense.
While bananas on their own make a great snack, they can also be enjoyed in appetisers, desserts, salads, smoothies and baked goods, too. When shopping, look for bananas that are farmed responsibly. For example, Chiquita, which is available in Oman, is committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 30 per cent by 2020, recycles 2,000 metric tonnes of plastic bags and twine used on company farms annually, and is committed to reforestation efforts in the regions where they farm.
Bananas are a great nutrient-dense power food, providing natural energy to fuel active lives. Pack a banana wherever you go and you’ll always have a quick, convenient source of nutrition to pick you up and keep you going.
For a wholesome treat, try this recipe for Healthy Chiquita Banana-Pear Chewy Granola Bars, which relies on fresh fruit for its sweetness instead of refined sugar, making it a delicious, healthful choice.
*StatePoint
This week’s winner
Rodney Woods
Winning flavour: Peanut butter and banana smoothie
with rainbow jelly
Ingredient ideas:§ 2 cups large flake rolled oats§ 1/2 cup coarsely chopped almonds§ 3 medium, very ripe Chiquita bananas (but any brand will do)§ 1 tbsp coconut oil§ 2 tbsp honey§ 1 tsp cinnamon§ 1/4 tsp allspice§ 1/4 tsp sea salt§ 1/4 cup flaxseed§ 1 pear, peeled and diced§ 1/2 cup dried cranberries§ 1/2 cup dried blueberries
Method:§ Preheat oven to 325ºC. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on both long sides of the pan. Set aside.§ Spread the oats and almonds on a large baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the oats are just starting to brown. Cool slightly§ In a large bowl, mash
the bananas. Stir in the coconut oil, honey, cinnamon, allspice and salt. Fold in the flaxseed, pear, cranberries, blueberries, oats and almonds.§ Transfer mixture into the prepared pan and pack it down with a spatula. § Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until firm. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Lift out of pan and continue to cool completely.§ Cut into 12 bars.
Source: www.ChiquitaBananas.com
Chiquita Banana-Pear Chewy Granola Bars
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J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 74 0 3 3
INSTA-FASHIONPenny Fray discovers how to become a digital stylista
Friendship bracelets are visual affirmations that you are also popular in real time. And Carolina Bucci’s number oozes grown-up chic. Woven from 18-carat gold and beige silk thread, this version is strung with a flat globe charm. From RO650 at Net-a-Porter.
MY PERFECT PICTURE READY PIECE
What does the Generation C girl ask before curating an
outfit? Will it look good on Insta, of course.
Being a thirtysomething with a horror of being photographed, I’ve never really understood the click and flash factor that comes from being a modern day fashionista. In fact, for me, the whole selfie-with-style thing smacks of narcissism accessorised with polka dots, crazy clutches and lashings of PR freebies. Then again, what do I know? I’m a luddite when it comes e-vanity. But willing to be reformed, I’m reliably informed that the number one rule of digital styling is to be different.
When it comes to online success, it’s all about marketing. Know thy self and thy audience should be the modern woman’s mantra.
This may be obvious, but images are the lifeblood of a blog or Instagram; readers will want to see what you’re talking about. If you’re taking your own images, use a good camera and know the basics of taking great shots. It’s all on Wiki. Get a selfie stick if necessary. If not, be sure you have permission to pinch pictures or you risk breaching copyright. Posh brands are famously particular about how you use their goods and are not afraid of unleashing a legion of lawyers to illustrate the point.
Once you’ve figured out your own style and audience, followers will follow, brands will come crawling and invites will roll in. And if all fails, just have fun. After all, that’s what fashion is all about.
Character pieces are an essential part of every digital-era fashionista. And what better place to start than Jimmy Choo’s whimsical capsule collection formed from its collaboration with Brazilian artist Rafael Mantesso? From RO130.
Try a trendy new label like Self Portrait. Tailored with a
straight-leg, this jumpsuit has a contrasting lace and satin-panelled bodice. The centre band cinches the narrowest part of your waist, while the slant pockets are angled to flatter your hips. From RO132.
The season’s avant-garde spin on the classic wide-leg pant was brilliantly executed by Jonathan Anderson at Loewe. The polished tie at the hip echoes a traditional Japanese judo belt and will take you effortlessly from office to out. The best high-street version can be found at Zara from RO25.
Have something to say, wear a slogan top. We love this one from Promod. From RO6.5.
Drafting a look that’s all your own can be a time-consuming task. But fashion’s new cat-eye
shades have an instant transforming effect. This
Miu Miu clear acetate pair is painted with orange, blue
and navy curves and fitted with graduated lenses. From RO132.
S C A N O U R Q R C O D E S
W I T H A N Y Q R R E A D E R A P P
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 740 3 4
B E A U T Y H e a l t h F a s h i o nHEALTH&BEAUTY
In summer, you want your skin to look and feel its best. But the Omani sun, as we all know, can be fierce and the strong rays are not always kind to our bodies. All that extra exposure introduces
more risks of irritation, rashes and bites.“If you’re careful and prepared, you can reduce
your risk for certain ailments as well as limit your discomfort,” says Dr. Vishakha Gigler, a board certified dermatologist in California.
Here’s a handy guide your family can use to avoid and treat skin woes, such as itching and pain, most common in the summer months.
● Prevent sunburn by always applying a high SPF sunblock before sun exposure. If possible, wait 15 minutes before walking outdoors. Don’t forget to reapply after excessive sweating or water exposure.● If you do get burned, relieve inflammation and redness by applying ice in a milk-soaked face cloth to affected areas for five to 10 minutes.● Protect your pucker and treat dry, chapped lips with shea butter or beeswax lip balm with SPF, which moisturise while providing sun protection.
● Drink plenty of cold water to cool down and hydrate your body and skin.● Mosquitoes dwell in areas near standing water and are attracted to hot skin temperatures. Keep skin cool and eliminate standing water from your yard. Also, be mindful that mosquitoes are most active at dusk.● When prevention fails, adults and children two years and older can treat bug bites and other itchy summer skin flare-ups with a dermatologist recommended, over-the-counter non- steroid-based topical treatment, such as TriCalm.● A highly effective itch relief gel, TriCalm is five times more effective than hydrocortisone one per cent at reducing itch, and does not have side effects like skin thinning and stretch marks.● Summer fun and sun can have its drawbacks, especially where your skin is concerned. For a more comfortable season, be prepared to prevent and treat itches, burns and skin flare-ups.
*StatePoint
As the weather heats up, the sun can play havoc with your body. Banish common summer woes with our tricks and treatment tips
SUPER SKIN
Becoming healthier doesn’t necessarily mean a radical makeover of your life. Sometimes it takes just a few simple steps to make all the difference
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 74 0 3 5
Staying healthy doesn’t have to mean overhauling your lifestyle. Sometimes small changes can have big impacts. Take it from celebrity fitness trainer, Latreal “La” Mitchell, who knows all about keeping in top
shape.“Everyone can reach their health and fitness goals. It’s all
about setting attainable goals and staying motivated to see results,” she says.
To look, feel and live better, Mitchell is offering tips for small lifestyle changes you can make that can inspire you to make more in the future:
GET MOVINGIf exercise is not a part of your life now, don’t worry.
“In a short time, you can be doing quality exercises,” says Mitchell. “The key is to start small.”
Try short sets of push-ups, planks, squats, and lunges and work your way up. Ten minutes can make a real difference. Remember, little things like taking the stairs instead of the elevator will keep you feeling great all day.
Just be sure to make exercise non-negotiable. Life is busy and it’s easy to find any number of reasons to skip a workout. Make yourself a fitness schedule and stick to it – and then don’t let anyone or anything stop you from staying on track.EAT RIGHT
The small goal of adding more fibre to your diet can lead you to better nutrition choices. Aim to get 25 to 38 grams of fibre every day. In addition to upping your fruit
B e a u t y H E A LT H F a s h i o n
and vegetable intake and swapping out processed white bread and pasta for the wholewheat variety, fibre supplements can help you meet your fibre goals. But choose wisely, as some options have additional benefits beyond supporting digestive health.
For example, Meta offers products made with psyllium fibre, which has multi-health benefits. Try adding Metamucil powder to a morning smoothie. Also try new MetaBiotic probiotic supplement.
For many people, snacking can be a downfall, especially during a busy workday. Try substituting your usual temptations with healthier options. For example, almonds and light popcorn are a good substitute for chips and are more satisfying. If you have a sweet tooth, ditch the afternoon pastry that’s high in calories but won’t actually help you feel full. Instead, look for a delicious, easy-to-pack snack like health bars that help to satisfy hunger as a healthy snack. Alternatives could be oat biscuits that punch a flavour punch but not calories.
Lastly, stay hydrated. Skip sugary fizzy drinks and sports drinks and opt for water throughout the day. If you need a boost of flavuor, add a lemon wedge, cucumber slice or some fresh herbs. Water helps you feel full and process fibre, while helping to keep you hydrated.
More tips can be found at www.metawellness.com.Bad habits are hard to break. But by making small changes one at a time, you can
overcome your hurdles for a healthier lifestyle.
*StatePoint
SMALL STEPS TO BETTER HEALTH
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J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 74 0 3 7
P o s t c a r d s f r o m O u t d o o r s Y - F i C a r s
CARS ANDADVENTURES OLD VS NEW
At the foothills of Jebel Akhdar, you’ll find a
village of contrasts, in which modern houses
nestle against the ruins of an old, abandoned town.
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 740 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 O u t d o o r s C a r sCARS ANDADVENTURES
THE OTHER SIDE OF FINSIF YOU’RE LOOKING TO ESCAPE THE CROWDS AT POPULAR
WEEKEND CAMPING SPOTS, TRY EXPLORING THE SECRET SIDE OF FINS, SAYS SHAQUEL AL BALUSHI
HARAT SEEBANISHAQUEL AL BALUSHI HEADS OFF ON A MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR NEAR JEBEL AKHDAR, BUT DOESN’T KNOW THE NAME
OF HIS DESTINATION UNTIL HE LEARNS IT FROM THE LOCALS
Destination
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HOW TO GET THEREFrom Muscat, take the road heading to Jebel Akhdar. At the Jebel Akhdar turn-off, continue going straight for about 15 minutes or so . You don’t need a 4x4 to get there. When you arrive,
you will see a group of palm trees at the edge of the village.
GPS Location of Harat Seebani: N 22º55’29.5” E57º40’29.9” TR
AVEL
GUI
DE
My friend recently suggested that we explore a village about 15 minutes past the turn-off to Jebel Akhdar.
The only problem? We had no idea what the village was called, so – unsurprisingly – we got incredibly lost. And asking for directions were almost impossible as we couldn’t tell anybody the name of the village. All we knew was that it was nestled in the foothills of the famous mountain.
But after a couple of hours, we finally stumbled on the village of Harat Seebani – at least that is what the locals called it when we arrived – and it turned out to be the very one we’d been looking for all morning.
Our first clue that perhaps we were heading in the right direction was a large group of date palm trees on the outskirts of Harat Seebani.
A cross between modern and old, I found everything mind-blowing in the village. Part of it is made up of the ruins of an old city, which sit beside the modern homes of the villagers.
There are some very large buildings that now sit in ruins, which makes me wonder if it was once a small, but prosperous city. These imposing buildings are no longer
used and have an unusual architecture, which reminded me of Roman times. The shape of the windows were incredible and I quickly fired off a few shots of them, trying to capture their shape and how they looked out on the surroundings. Some buildings were typically Omani in design, but you can see the influences from other cultures, possibly from foreign traders long ago.
The biggest challenge taking photos mainly lay in the fact that it is a large area and there is so much to see. From walking beneath large archways and through dimly lit passageways to taking winding stairs between walls so close that you almost lose your breath, it was a fascinating insight into the history of Oman.
The villagers were very friendly and they were the ones who told us the name of the village. I assume that Seebani is a tribe name, while I know that “hara” means neighbourhood. One young guy invited us to his home for refreshments, but we politely declined as we still wanted to explore.
After a few hours, we headed home – it had been a hot day, so it was a surprise that we encountered a very heavy rainstorm on the way back, even though the sun was still out.
CARS ANDADVENTURES
Talented young dancers show off their moves at annual show
LittleStarsDANCING
UNDER THE STARS 3
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Photos: Shaquel al Balushi
I N D O O R S
Even the most experienced of performers can suffer a touch of stage fright
before a big show. But there was no sign of any last-minute nerves among the young ones before their moment in the spotlight in the Dancing Under The Stars 3 production. Which, considering that the youngest one performing was just four years old, is pretty impressive.
The annual show at the Ras Al Hamra Recreation Centre is proving to be a popular event on Muscat’s social calendar, with a sell-out crowd for both shows last weekend.
With vibrant colours, smoke
Lady Gaga to Enrique Iglesias. Reflecting the young participants’ tastes, inspiration was also drawn from tracks such as Let it Go from Frozen, All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor and Bruno Mars’ Uptown Funk.
For the first time, some of the older girls were also allowed to perform solo pieces they had choreographed themselves.
As with the previous two shows, this year’s offering was directed and choreographed by Giusi Rondinelli, who came up with some creative ideas to top last year’s event.
Sadly, this will be Rondinelli’s last one in charge as she is
special effects and energetic dance routines, the stage was alive with movement, sound and drama. It all went down tremendously well with the audience, many of them parents with their cameras and phones at the ready to capture the their little stars in action.
Aged up to 13, the girls were divided into three groups according to age and experience and showcased show dance, jazz, street dance and Zumba, all brought together in one energetic, interactive show lasting almost two hours.
It was all set to a diverse musical soundtrack from
leaving Muscat in a few weeks after being the girls’ dance teacher for the past four years.
“The show has been a fantastic finale for her, enjoyed by sold-out audiences on both days,” says Jane Ford, who is involved with the show. “Family and friends joined in with clapping and singing along. Rapturous applause accompanied the final curtain.”
The girls have got their work cut out next year to make Dancing Under The Stars 4 the best yet, but it should be quite a show.
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TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO:1. Take a selfie with Mount Whitney in the background2. See some of the world’s largest trees at Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park3. Try rock climbing at Alabama Hills4. Make some S’mores by the campfire5. Swim in freshwater Lake Tahoe
ON A HIGHThe Alabama Hills are a
stunning part of The Sierra Nevada, which is known universally as an outdoor
adventurer’s paradise.
CARS ANDADVENTURES
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 7 4 0 4 3
P O S T C A R D S F R O MD e s t i n a t i o n O u t d o o r s Y - F i C a r s
My favourite place Located towards the east of the Sierra, a range of hills and rock formations, known as the Alabama Hills, were definitely my favourite. Not only did the hills mark my first “official” rock climbing experience (after so many failed tries), they are actually known for their very unusual looking rocks that were featured in some western and sci-fi films. Two particular rocks that stood out were the Mobius Arch (known as the arch that frames Mount Whitney) and Shark’s Fin rock, which was exhilarating to climb.
Highlights Rock climbing, hiking, cycling; you name it! Think of an outdoor activity and the Sierra Nevada probably offers it. With year-round activities that suit all ages and interests, the Sierra Nevada can be described as the “outdoor adventurer’s wonderland”. If you love trees, then you are in luck because the Sierras happen to have the world’s largest and oldest trees. Visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home of the 5,000-year-old beautifully twisted bristlecone pine trees. And make sure to visit the world’s largest trees, the Sequoia trees at the Sequoia National Park, where you can see General Sherman Tree, the largest known living single stem tree on earth, stretching up a dizzyingly height of 83.8 metres. A visit to Yosemite National Park to stand at Tunnel View, an outlook where you can see the iconic waterfall Bridalveil Fall and the famous granite hills, is also a must.
Lowlights Although the weather is cooler than Oman, you are still at risk of heat exhaustion, so make sure you wear sunscreen and stay hydrated. If you decide to camp outdoors, be warned that temperatures drop below 9°C (48.2°F) at night, so take the necessary precautions to keep yourself warm. Also, since the state of California is in a drought, make sure to check with the campsite’s rules and guidelines regarding fires so you don’t miss out on roasting marshmallows. Souvenirs Towns surrounding the Sierras are packed with gift shops that sell all of your cliché touristy souvenirs. But what I really found interesting were some antique stores, which had all sorts of vintage items from coins to jewellery to old letters and photographs.
Where to stay Various hotels, guest houses, hostels, motels, bed and breakfasts and campsites are available to choose from. I camped out in various camp sites surrounding the Sierras. I strongly recommend camping out, not only are S’mores (a traditional nighttime campfire treat popular in the US and Canada, which consists of a roasted marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two Graham crackers – a sweet wholewheat type biscuit) great, but the night sky full of stars is to die for.
THE SIERRA NEVADA, USHibba al Kindi recommends
Wh a t h a d I g o t m y s e l f i n t o ? T h a t ’ s w h a t I t h o u g h t w h e n I fo u n d m y s e l f i n a c a r w i t h a b u n c h o f s t r a n g e r s a n d fo r c e d t o l i s t e n t o w h a t m i g h t a s w e l l h a v e b e e n t h e w o r l d ’ s w o r s t m u s i c . A c o u p l e o f
m o n t h s e a r l i e r , b e i n g a l o n e l y f r e s h m a n a t t h e t i m e , I h a d d e c i d e d t o s i g n u p fo r a r o c k - c l i m b i n g t r i p i n t h e h o p e o f a n a d v e n t u r e a n d i n f e a r o f n o t h a v i n g a n y p l a n s fo r s p r i n g b r e a k . B u t a f t e r g o i n g t h r o u g h m i d -t e r m s , t h e o n l y t h i n g t h a t I w a n t e d t o d o w a s t o l i e i n b e d a n d b i n g e w a t c h a l l t h e T V i n t h e w o r l d . U n fo r t u n a t e l y , i t w a s t o o l a t e t o c a n c e l .
S o a f t e r a t w o - d a y d r i v e f r o m P u l l m a n , W a s h i n g t o n , t o C a l i fo r n i a s t a t e , I w a s s h o c k e d w h e n I g o t o u t o f t h e c a r a n d fo u n d w h a t s e e m e d t o l o o k l i k e t h e a r e a b e h i n d o u r h o u s e i n A l A m e r a t , n e a r M u s c a t . E x c e p t fo r t h e f a c t t h a t i t w a s n ’ t a s h o t a n d t h e m o u n t a i n s w e r e a c t u a l l y c o v e r e d i n s n o w . Fa s t - fo r w a r d a c o u p l e o f d a y s , w i t h a l l t h e f r e s h a i r i n t h e w o r l d , t h e b r e a t h - t a k i n g s c e n e r y a n d I w a s i n l o v e w i t h t h e S i e r r a N e v a d a s !
T h e S i e r r a N e v a d a , h o m e o f M o u n t W h i t n e y , t h e h i g h e s t p o i n t i n t h e c o n t i g u o u s U n i t e d S t a t e s , i s a m a j o r m o u n t a i n r a n g e i n t h e w e s t e r n p a r t o f t h e c o u n t r y . T h e m a j o r i t y o f t h e r a n g e r u n s a l o n g t h e e d g e o f t h e s t a t e o f C a l i fo r n i a , w h i l e t h e C a r s o n R a n g e l i e s i n t h e s t a t e o f N e v a d a . R u n n i n g 6 4 0 k m n o r t h t o s o u t h a n d a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 1 0 k m a c r o s s e a s t t o w e s t , t h e h i g h S i e r r a p e a k s a t 1 4 , 5 0 5 f e e t ( 4 , 4 2 1 m e t r e s ) a t M o u n t W h i t n e y . T r a n s l a t i n g t o “ s n o w y m o u n t a i n r a n g e ” , t h e S i e r r a N e v a d a i s h o m e t o t h r e e n a t i o n a l p a r k s , 2 0 w i l d e r n e s s a r e a s a n d t w o n a t i o n a l m o n u m e n t s . T h e r a n g e ’ s m o s t n o t a b l e f e a t u r e s i n c l u d e L a k e T a h o e , t h e l a r g e s t a l p i n e l a k e i n N o r t h A m e r i c a , M o u n t W h i t n e y a n d Y o s e m i t e V a l l e y .
ROCKCLIMBING IN THE ALABAMA HILLS
HOLIDAY LODGE IN THE
SIERRA NEVADA
STUNNING ROCK FORMATIONS IN THE ALABAMA HILLS
J U LY 0 3 - 0 9 / I S S U E 3 2 70 4 4
-FIT H E T E C H I N Y O U
Y - F IP o s t c a r d s f r o m C a r s O u t d o o r s
J U N 1 1 - 1 7 / I S S U E 3 740 4 4
STAY COOL
EDITO
R’S PI
CK
Summer in Oman can be long and daunting. Matthew Herbst checks out how you can keep cool during the hot months to make every day a little more bearable
ICE CHIC HERE’S A WEARABLE COOLING ALTERNATIVE THAT LOOKS A LOT LIKE A BULLETPROOF VEST. THE CHILL-ITS 6665 EVAPORATIVE COOLING VEST IS IDEAL FOR ROAD WORKERS, FARMERS AND OTHERS WHO WORK OUTDOORS IN SUMMER. IT’S ALSO A GOOD IDEA FOR TOURISTS WHO HAPPEN TO BE IN A VERY HOT COUNTRY ON HOLIDAY AND DON’T WANT TO MISS THE SIGHTS. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS SOAK THE COOLING VEST IN WATER FOR TWO TO FIVE MINUTES TO ACTIVATE IT AND IT WILL KEEP YOU COOL FOR UP TO FOUR HOURS. AT WWW.AMAZON.COM FROM RO13.09
TOO COOL
The wearable Cool on the Go Versatile Hands-Free Personal Cooling Device is one way to keep yourself cool while you are literally on the go. Hang the device around your neck and it should provide you with a continuous stream of refreshing air no matter where you are. Cool on the Go can run on batteries or a USB, which is included. At www.amazon.com from RO11.55
CHILL WINDThe first thing that usually comes to mind when you’re overheated is how you can cool down no matter where you are. The ARCTIC Breeze USB-Powered Portable Fan is mobile, cheap, convenient and comfortable – a perfect summer companion at work while sitting at the computer. At www.amazon.com from RO3.08
SLEEP WELLYou’ve managed to stay cool in the office all day, but coming home to a hot house is another challenge during the summer months. The ChiliPad, a cooling mattress pad, could be one of the best investments you’ve made in a long time – more so as it keeps you cool as you sleep. The double bed pads
have split temperature controls, allowing couples individual chill control on their own side of the bed. Available at www.chilitechnology.com from RO 172.84 onwards, depending on the size of your bed.
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App of the Week
COOL DOWNIf you are worried about your Android phone overheating during the summer, then Cooler Master – Cooling Android is the app for you. The app detects, monitors, controls and closes heavy app consumption to reduce CPU usage. This will then cool down your phone (sorry iOS, it is only available for Android at the moment). Free for Android users at Google Play
COLD BOX
The Koolatron P9 Traveler III 9.8-Quart Electric Cooler is aimed at those who plan to travel often throughout the summer. Not only does the Koolatron P9 Traveler III 9.8-Quart Electric Cooler keep your drinks cold, but it also warms up food. Which is important when keeping your family safe from food poisoning on long road trips. At www.amazon.com from RO30.80
COOLWARE PERSONAL COOLING SYSTEM
Not only does it look cool, this gadget works wonders in helping you to keep your cool. The CoolWare Personal Cooling System is capable of refreshing you around the neck area and because it’s battery powered, it goes where you go. Great for gardening, hiking, biking, walking, or any other outdoor activities over the summer. At www.thermacell.com from RO11.55
NEW
BIGGEST FAN
The Dyson Air Multiplier AM06 Table Fan will bring a little magic into your sweltering summer. Not only does it look good with its modern design, but its technology is certainly able to keep you cool. The base unit has an air turbine driven by a 40W motor, which takes air from the holes at the bottom and drives it up into a hollow ring. The air is then accelerated and forced out of a gap along the perimeter. A cool idea. At www.dyson.com from RO110.50
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