#41 February 2014

like us onFacebook.com/OutdoorUAE

WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM Issue 38, February 2014

Price: 10 DHS

++

the mighty MagirusGlobetrotting aboard

Off-road

Himalayan hike

Andermatt, Switzerland

driving tips

Desert Crossing Adventure

on paws

The Wahiba Challenge

A new look at mountain living

OptrixPhotoProX

Gear alert!

3OUTDOORUAE

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

The information contained is for general use only. While we have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this magazine has been obtained from reliable sources, however the publisher is not responsible for any errors. All information in this magazine is provided as is, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. In no event will the publisher, its related affiliates or anyone else be responsible for any decision made or action taken in reliance on the information in this magazine.

All contents are under copyrights and may not be reproduced in any kind without written permission.

2014 Outdoor UAE FZEReg. at Creative City FujairahP.O. Box 4422, Fujairah, U.A.E.

WHEN YOURE DONE READING,

PLEASE RECYCLE!

On the cover: Wahiba ChallengePhoto by: Darryl MacDonald

Managing Editor Daniel BirkhoferEditors Glaiza Seguia, Tara AtkinsonDesigner Oybek DaniyarovAdministration Jane Mesina

Sales & Marketing (advertisement enquiries)Linda TurcerovaTel: 04-447 2030Mobile: 055 [email protected]

Published byOutdoor UAE FZEIn cooperation with D32 EventsP.O. Box 215062Dubai, U.A.E.Tel. 04-447 [email protected]

DistributorTawzea, Abu Dhabi Media CompanyP.O. Box 40401, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.

Printed atDubai Printing PressP.O. Box: 6820, Dubai, UAETel: 04-3370344

2014 Outdoor UAE FZEIssue 38 February 2014

BETWEEN THE LINES

Daniel Birkhofer Founder and Editor in [email protected]

Oybek Daniyarov Graphics & [email protected]

Linda Turcerova Sales and Marketing [email protected]

Jane Mesina [email protected]

EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS

Tori Leckie Writer, runner, blogger and adventurer.

Kit Belen Our fishing pro

Ian Ganderton Kayaker, climber, mountainbiker and snowboarder. Enthusiastic jack of all trades, master of none.

Mike Nott The 4x4 expert

John Basson Moto/ATV and all round adventure seeker

Pete Aldwinckle Climber and all-round adventure seeker

Sandy Joy Rubin Pilates and yoga expert and general thrill seeking move-aholic

Darryl MacDonald Photographer, journalist, climbing and hiking junkie currently living in Oman.

Gordon T Smith Desert Diver and wannabe Marine Biologist

WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? CONTACT US! [email protected]

++

++

Glaiza SeguiaEditor [email protected]

Statistically, by the time you read this editorial, 80% of you have already failed to stick to your New Years resolutions. Thats the bad news. The good news is why do you think we are printing this magazine? Well, to keep you going throughout the whole year, of course! Last months issue got you racing on two wheels, this month we bring you to the great outdoors on four wheels. Our off-road theme fits this gorgeous season perfectly and if there ever was a time to get out and live for a couple of days in your car exploring and experiencing the real Middle East, it is now.

With another Dubai Shopping Festival closing, I hope you got your hands on the great deals for your hobbies. Watersports are coming out from hibernation and I witnessed more and more SUPs dotting the horizon in the morning around Sunset Beach and JBR in Dubai. Calm seas of coastal areas like Fujairah and Sharjah offer the perfect spots for camping, just remem-ber to bring a jumper (and beanie and a scarf) overnight. And a bikini with loads of sunscreen when riding dunes on bikes, bodyboards or cardboards (I really dont know what you are into).

This month, come see us at the RAK Half Marathon on Valentines Day.

So, before you get glued to the pages of this issue, repeat after me: This year, I will live every day to the fullest. I will not say no to adventure, challenge or a cook-out. I will buy OutdoorUAE magazine every month because I love the outdoors!

Linda

Tara Atkinson Travel [email protected]

Get to us on Facebook!

4 OUTDOORUAE


24 HIMALAYAN DOG TREK

CONTENTS

EVERY ISSUE

EVENT REVIEWS & REPORTS

OUR EXPERTS

LIFESTYLE

TIPS + TRICKS

05 BEST SHOTS06 EVENTS CALENDAR38 PRODUCTS48 PEOPLE60 DIRECTORY

13 OFF-ROAD DRIVING COURSE14 STAND UP FOR RAELYN22 WADI ADVENTURE RACE 5

28 ANDERMATT, SWITZERLAND26 EXPAT EXPLORERS IN NEW ZEALAND30 VISITING A HIPPIE COMMUNE

35 HABITUALLY HEALTHY

44 WAHIBA CHALLENGE MARINA BRUCE 46 TOO FAST JOHN BASSON

57 SPANGLED EMPEROR KIT BELEN 51 TRAIL RUNNING TIPS52 DUBAI GARDEN CENTRE

32 GLOBETROTTERS IN THE UAE

51 SKATE SPOTS

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

20 DOSC SAILING EVENTS

44 WAHIBA CHALLENGE 2014

5OUTDOORUAE


BEST SHOTS

Here are the best shots sent in by you for the monthly Want Fame? photography competition! Thank you for all your entries, they were all great and it was hard selecting the best photos this month. Congratulations to the top 3 winners, who will each receive Buff headwear and five free copies of the magazine: Mario Cardenas, Herbert Iponla and Paul King. Well done!

To submit your entries, simply email us at [email protected] with the subject Best Shots.

Herbert IponlaWatching ATV riders doing their tricks is another good reason why you want to go to the Hatta-Oman border.

Editors note: We strongly encourage people to wear helmet and protective gear when doing outdoor sports.

The daredevils in the photo show how NOT to do it.

Mario CardenasSky Dive Dubai. This photo was taken last December during the Accuracy Landing competition.

Paul KingPhoto of Phoebe King UAE National Champion and World Wakeboard Association World Champion 2013 ripping at Al Forsan.

WINNER!

WINNER!

WINNER!

EVENTS CALENDAR ++Stay up-to-date with the latest events

RAK Half Marathon 2014 February 14, 7:00am, Manar Mall, Ras Al Khaimah

Feel the love at the worlds fastest and annual half-marathon! The coming edition of the RAK Half Marathon promises fast times and fierce contests with the prospect of more records in both mens and womens competitions. The Half Marathon and the Team Relay Challenge will start and finish at the same place just about opposite to the City Hotel and at the end of the Manar Mall car park next to the Carrefour sign. Both the events will run on the same route. OutdoorUAE is one of official supporters of the RAK Half Marathon. For more information, visit www.rakmarathon.org.

Dubai Tour 2014February 5 to 8

The inaugural Dubai Tour is the new professional cycling race that will open the UCI Asia Tour. In four different stages across the UAE, the best teams and the tops cyclists in the world including Rui Costa and Mark Cavendish will offer the amazing competition and a magnificent showcase of the emirate. Dubai Tour is organised by Dubai Sports Council in partnership with RCS Sport. For more information, www.dubaitour.com.

22nd Salomon Wadi Bih Run 2014February 7, 6:00am, Golden Tulip Hotel, Dibba, Oman

Held every year since 1993, the Wadi Bih Run is the oldest regular expatriate sporting event in the UAE. The run is for teams of five runners, with each runner completing about 15km to give a total distance of about 72km. Hardy individuals can run the entire distance solo or do a shortened route (approximate distance will be a minimum of 50km) called solo canyon. The route for the run follows asphalt roads and graded gravel tracks through the spectacular Hajar mountains and is a therapeutic experience to escape the urban mayhem. For more information, visit www.wadibih.com.

GIANT Duathlon Series - Race 5February 8, 10:00am, The Sevens Stadium

The Giant Bicycles Duathlon Series is aimed at triathletes, duathletes, cyclists, runners and fitness enthusiasts, of all ages and abilities. Kids, tweens and teens are welcome too as the courses are traffic-friendly, providing the greatest degree of safety for all competitors. The format for each race is run-bike-run and is be open to individual athletes and teams of two. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/groups/duathlonseriesuae.

2XU Triathlon Championships Series Race 2 of 3 Season 13/14February 7, 7:00am, Al Mamzar, Dubai

The calm waters in the Mamzar lagoon, closed roads and a designated running track will ensure a safe and speedy race for all. Three distances are on offer, the Super Sprint (300/375m swim, 24km bike and 5km run ), Sprint (750m, 24km bike and 5km run) and Olympic (1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run). This event is open for all ages and abilities and relay teams of two and three people are welcome. This event is part of the Go Sports Super Series. For more information, visit www.supersportsdubai.com.

Featured Event

6 OUTDOORUAE



7OUTDOORUAE

EVENTS CALENDAR ++

The Beast TriathlonFebruary 21, 7:00am, Wadi Adventure, Al Ain

Possibly the hardest Sprint distance triathlon in the world with over 900m of vertical gain and a gruelling run to finish the Jebel Hafeet provides a true challenge. The race is open to competitors 16 years and older. All racers must wear helmets at all times during the cycle leg. For more information, contact [email protected].

Wild Wadis Swim Burj Al Arab 2014February 21, 8:00am, Burj Al Arab Beach

The Swim Burj Al Arab returns! The thrilling swim race around one of the UAEs most iconic landmarks is now a staple in the Dubai sports calendar. Participants from all over the world will take part in the 800m and now additionally a 1,600m swim organised by Wild Wadi in aid of Mdecins Sans Fron-tires. Funds raised through this event will be used by MSF to provide medical aid to those most in need around the world. For more information, www.swim.msf-me.org.

Musandam Adventure Race 2014February 21, 5:00am, Khor Najd, Oman

This adventure race, probably the toughest one-day event of this nature in the region, starts and finishes in Khor Najd, completing a loop of the eastern side of the Musandam Peninsula by kayak, foot and bike. Competitors will be entirely self-sufficient in all things; there will be no checkpoints and no assistance along the route (not even rescue), however, a dhow will shadow the kayakers and your car will shadow your riders. For more information, contact Mike at [email protected].

Urban Ultra Extreme 3February 27, 3:00pm, Dubai

Get ready for this extreme footrace. It is the perfect introduction to multi-stage running, this 140km totally self-supported stage race will take you through rocky mountain terrain and over the spectacular sand dunes of the UAE. There will be plenty of experienced ultra-runners to offer advice and it is a great chance to test out your gear for the coming season of multi-stage races! It might just get you hooked enough to sign up for longer one. For more information, visit www.urbanultra.com.

Dubai Roadsters Coast to Coast Challenge Spring 2014February 14, 5:30am, Nad al Sheba Cycle Park

The 216km cycling event from the Dubai coast to the Al Aqah Beach Hotel and Resort on the North Coast of Fujairah will undoubtedly be a challenge and a wonderful day out on the roads of the UAE. Note that entrants need a certain level of fitness to take part due to the distance and the amount of climbing. It is also important to emphasize that this ride is a group ride and not a race. The ride will leave from the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park promptly so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get organised beforehand. For more information, visit www.dubairoadsters.com.

Tri Yas February 28, 2:00pm, Yas Marina Circuit

The regions only day/night triathlon is back! Now in its fourth year, TriYAS has become one of the favour-ite first-timer triathlons on the calendar. As in previous years, all swim waves start in daylight progressing to runners completing the 5km or 10km marina run under the full floodlights of the Formula 1 circuit. Cat-egories for 2014 include the Junior Duathlon as well as the Sprint and Olympic individual and team relays distances; theres a race option for everyone! For more information, visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com.

This is just a selection of the events taking place this month, for more upcoming events visit: www.outdooruae.com/event

My aim is simple to raise 1 million USD and draw global attention to the foundations pioneering work, which has been to challenge the class system and to break the vicious cycle of poverty in Bangladesh by helping the impoverished to live up to their maximum potential. Running these seven ultramarathons is going to be the toughest challenge I have ever taken on, but that is nothing compared to the daily struggle our kids face on the streets of Dhaka, she said.

Maria ConceicaoJan 26 - AntarcticaFeb 2 - South AmericaFeb 7 - AsiaFeb 16 - EuropeFeb 23 - AustraliaMar 2 - North AmericaMar 15 - Africa

set to run 7 ultramarathons on 7 continents in 7 weeksThe founder of the Maria Cristina

Foundation (MCF), who became the first Portuguese woman to summit the Everest earlier this year, has set her sights on a double Guinness World Record attempt in 2014. Maria Con-ceicao has been training for the past six months to run one of the worlds toughest endurance races seven full-distance 50km ultramarathons, to be run on each of the seven continents, across seven weeks. First of the seven events commenced in Antarctica last month.

For the past nine years, MCF has nurtured and fostered hundreds of young boys and girls who have shown tremendous potential to pursue higher education. I would like to secure educational scholarships and employ-ment opportunities worldwide, to formulate a sustainable long-term partnership with corporations and educational bodies. The foundation has placed 35 young adults in jobs in the UAE and Oman since 2005, and a num-ber of young students are currently studying in the UAE under the patronage of HH Sheikh Nayhan Bin Mubarak Al Nayhan. Currently, we have 529 dwellers registered under our two flagship programs, known as Butterflies and Catalysts projects waiting for scholarships,

educational support, or employment opportu-nities in Bangladesh and abroad.

The 777 Challenge is a formidable un-dertaking. Maria will run a full ultramarathon every weekend for seven weeks, on each of the seven continents of the world, starting with Antarctica in January, then proceeding to South America, Asia, Europe, and Australia in February, and on to North America and Africa in March. Ziyad Rahim, Maria Conceicaos mentor, has been responsible for all the logis-tical arrangements of the challenge.

The 777 Challenge is being supported by Etihad Airways, NAMA, Right Bite and Up and Running Sports Medical Centre.

Each race is an official and fully sanctioned marathon recognised by the Guinness World Records organisation, and Maria has her sights set on claiming not one but two such records. One: the fastest time to complete an ultramarathon on each continent (female), and two: the fastest aggregate time to complete an ultramarathon on each continent (female).

Maria has summited Mount Everest, trekked to the North Pole, summited Aconcagua and Kilimanjaro, and climbed Denali in support of her charity, amongst many others.

Zip it! Photo By: Jung DomingoWords By: Glaiza Seguia

This state-of-the-art dual track zip line takes riders 16m off the ground and propels them 150m across the snowy slopes. Riders will catch a chairlift to the Avalanche Caf and from there they will be securely strapped on for a swift ride down to the hills base. OutdoorUAE got to try out the Snow Bullet and after a short briefing, reading the safety terms, weighing in and outfitting of helmet and harness, we were ready to roll, or in this case, zip. The Snow Bullet lets riders experi-ence Ski Dubai from a different viewpoint with the frosty air reddening your cheeks and

Winter is literally at full speed in Ski Dubai. This January, the regions biggest indoor ski resort located inside the Mall of the Emirates launched a new fun ride for all piste prowlers out there, the Snow Bullet. racing the skiers and snowboarders shredding

the powder below; screaming is optional.The zip line is offered as an added ride

with the PowerPass ticket and enables guests to enjoy an exhilarating day with full access to the Snow Park, Zorbing, Mountain Thriller ride, unlimited chairlift rides and a snow pen-guin encounter or skiing option. Priced at 300 AED, the PowerPass now also includes the Snow Bullet and promises a great experience. The Snow Bullet can also be availed on its own at 150 AED for two runs. Open to all, the Snow Bullet can be enjoyed by guests over the age of eight years old, weighing between

30-125kg and above 1.20m in height. Ski Dubai is an icon in the region. We are

always delivering and offering unrivaled expe-riences whether it is skiing or snowboarding, learning about snow penguins and their habi-tat, or just simply enjoying sub-zero tempera-tures. We are always thinking and exploring new ways to continue delivering the promise of doing something different from the rest. We thought why not do something very unique and get to soar over Ski Dubai from an angle youve never seen before, said Ski Dubai Marketing Manager Sherif Hashem.

For more information, visit: www.skidxb.com.

8 OUTDOORUAE

NEWS + COMMUNITY

777 Ultramarathon Route


MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

EXHIBITION AND AWARD CEREMONY: Wednesday, 28th May 2014 | 19:00-22:00 | Venue TBA

PHOTO BY SIMONE CAPRODOSSI WWW.SCAPRODOSSIPHOTO.COM1st Place Wide Angle (PRO) Digital Online 2013

DIGITAL ONLINE 2014 AWARDSEDAS UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILM COMPETITION | WWW.EMIRATESDIVING.COM

CONTEST OPENS FOR SUBMISSIONS: Wednesday, 1st January 2014

CONTEST SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Wednesday, 30th April 2014 @ Midnight

DIGITAL ONLINE Submit underwater photos and/or video for the 2013 categories, entering them in the Local section (UAE and Musandam) or International section (taken anywhere in the world). Winners choose their own prizes. Open to all photographers and videographers with a valid EDA membership status. Must renew EDA membership in order to take part.

PHOTOGRAPHY SECTIONSPhotographers will be classified into DSLR and compact camera sections. Please state the cam-era used when entering your submissions.

DSLR SECTION: Digital SLR camera users with or without external strobes.COMPACT CAMERA SECTION: Point and shoot photographers only (compact cameras).

Photographers can enter one photo into each category. You must choose either the DSLR or the compact camera section; you cannot enter both.

PHOTOGRAPHY CATEGORIES1. MACRO LOCAL: UAE and Musandam2. MACRO INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.Definition: Photographs taken with close up-equipment, portraying underwater flora and/or fauna. The photographer may not crop the original more than 20%. The original image may be requested. 3. WIDEANGLE LOCAL: UAE and Musandam.4. WIDEANGLE INTERNATIONAL: Taken any-where in the world.Definition: Photographs taken with a wide-angle lens (or adapters that provide an equal field-of-view), with or without human presence, portraying the natural beauty of the underwater environment.

Digital Online 2014 Contest RulesEDAs Underwater Photography and Film Competition

Digital Online is open to UAE Nationals and all people living in the UAE under a valid Residence Visa and of any diving qualification with a valid EDA membership status.

5. MARINE LIFE PORTRAIT LOCAL: UAE and Musandam.6. MARINE LIFE PORTRAIT INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.Definition: A portrait shot of an animal underwa-ter such as a fish, shark, octopus, marine bird, etc. focusing on one subject. It could be a full body shot, or focus just on face/head.

VIDEO CATEGORY1. LIFE UNDERWATER LOCAL: UAE and Musan-dam.2. LIFE UNDERWATER INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.Definition: Show off your creative editing skills showcasing life underwater. Macro, wide angle, wreck, etc are allowed. Maximum duration includ-ing credits: 5 minutes.

REGISTRATION AND IMAGE UPLOAD Registration and submission is open from Wednesday, 1st January 2014 and the deadline is on Wednesday, 30th April 2014, at midnight. Registration and submissions to Digital Online is free. The participant must be a UAE Resident and an active EDA member. To enter, send details, im-ages and film via email to [email protected] with the following information:- Full Name- EDA Membership Number- Camera Model- Mention where/dive site photos were taken Images must be submitted by email as high resolution jpeg files for final exhibition print purposes. File names should include photographers name and the category. (eg. JSmith-M.jpg, JSmith-WA.jpg and JSmith-MLP). Video submissions must be in mp4 format and sent via Yousendit or Dropbox with file name of the Videographer. You will receive an email to confirm your registration and image/video upload. If you do not receive one within 24 hours, your email may not have come through and you may need to try again unless it has passed the deadline.

For more information, visit www.emiratesdiving.com.

Local off-road clubsJoining groups is a great way for starters to learn the basics of off-roading and for enthusiasts to meet new driving buddies or explore new trails.

The Al-Ain based off-roading club that offers accessible adventures in the beautiful red dunes around the UAEs garden city. Established in October 2012 by a group of experienced off-road drivers, the club aim to cater to drivers of all levels, offering a range of trips from easy introductory drives to family trips, advanced sand driving and distance overlanding adventures. As well as driver training, Oasis Offroad is also able to support you by offering ad-vice on cars and equipment. To become part of the Oasis Offroad community please join one of the trips listed on our forum.

www.oasis-offroadforum.com/www.facebook.com/OasisOffroad

Almost 4x4 Off-Road Club is a group of off-roaders from different nationalities and ages, more than 2,000 drivers, with the same passion for off-roading.

Established in UAE, the drivers are com-posed of different expertise with over 22 years in off-roading, mechanical, communication and navigation skills or even just beginners. The club strongly focuses on family values, and welcome and encourage new members. To join the club, trips or events register in the website.

www.almost4x4.comwww.facebook.com/almost4x4.club

Offroadbug is a UAE-based social club that provides information to outdoor enthusiasts, negotiates deals for members and organises outdoor experiences. They have organised many experiences over the past year that cov-ered both the UAE and Oman. Dune bashing, hiking, camping, scuba diving and more. The membership is a friend of friend structure in order to maintain a fit between the different members. However, the content is publicly avail-able for everyone to enjoy. The found-ing members are: Tarek El Awji, Yazan Al Taher and Mehran Dawood. Contact Offroad Bug at 0504916614.

www.offroadbug.comwww.facebook.com/offroadbuginstagram.com/offroad_bug

Jeep Wrangler JK Fun Club in UAE, the largest and most active online Jeep club in the Middle East, is a com-munity based in Dubai to meet fellow jeepers and create a knowledge share space. This group belongs to the Jeep enthusiast who wants to share the latest technology and show off your skills and your sweet ride! Feel free to contribute tips on how you are preparing your Jeep for the season: safety ideas, parts, accessories, routes, times, meet-ups, software updates, reviews, etc. Group members are welcome at all levels; its free to join and have fun. This com-munity was originally created by Suffian Al Mebayed, broadcast communication engineer, Jeep enthusiast and photog-rapher.

www.facebook.com/groups/100403660018938

UAE Off-roaders is a family-oriented club formed in Abu Dhabi on Septem-ber 2009 with the purpose of promot-ing four wheel driving, dune bashing and exploring the gorgeous desert, mountains, wadis and landscapes of the UAE. Members range from rookie to the very experienced. To cater mem-bers, a variety of trips are organised and posted on the website on a weekly basis to suit all levels of competence, starting from rookie runs to advanced trips, as well as organised camping and wadi or mountain exploration trips. The club will provide hands-on technical and instructional training and information of how to drive safely in the sand, raising your confidence level and confidence in your vehicles capabilities.

www.uaeoffroaders.com

ME4x4 is not the largest or most well known off-road club in the UAE; there are many more that can claim to be these. But what ME4x4 does have is a wealth of experience that few can prob-ably match. Established in 1997, it has conducted week long trips through the Omani Empty Quarter and into Yemen, it has opened up a plethora of new routes in both the UAE and Oman and its main aim is to go to those places that few, if any, others go. However, despite these laudable aims, the club does not lose sight of the need to in-duct newcomers to the pleasures of off road driving; after all, we must all start somewhere.

www.me4x4.com

10 OUTDOORUAE



AD4x4 was founded in the summer of 2006 by off-road enthusiasts creating a unique club with the mission to provide a meeting point for all addicted to the desert driving. The club is proud to serve the entire bandwidth of nationali-ties working and living in the United Arab Emirates by accompanying them to the beauty of the desert. They welcome all types of four-wheel drive vehicles and hold regular social activi-ties, day trips, night-drives, early-birds, as well as weekend camping trips. Every trip is rated so that you will know what to expect.

www.ad4x4.com/clubwww.facebook.com/groups/20165410464

Its no secret that one of the most inspirational of material things in this country is the 4x4, aka the off-road vehicle, referred to in the motor trade as the SUV. For many, you have not arrived if you do not own one of these babes. Yet the vast majority of these ubiquitous vehicles have barely touched sand of any variety. A small but growing number of 4x4 owners, however, own them because they value their utility above all else. They have a passion for the desert, its exploration and its conquest, of the kind that may be seen in alpinists and deep-sea divers. One band of such creatures regularly sallies forth into the wild sandy yonder under the collective banner of Emarat 4x4. This diverse group of dedicated (some say they should be committed!) enthusiasts has been crisscrossing the sands of the Emirates for many years in their quest for off-road nirvana. On any given Friday, its members will be out and about bashing daunting dunes, traversing inhospitable swathes of desert, or taking it a bit easy by leading nervous newbies on less-demanding treks in a process of initiation into the dark(ish) art of off-roading. The group organises regular desert clean-up drives, bringing together volunteers who lit-erally pick the desert clean of litter. The gang has also organised desert parties and family fun days. The idea being to introduce neophytes to the pleasures the great outdoors has to offer.

www.emarat4x4.com www.facebook.com/groups/19756937024/

ZX-10r

WERE Rolling oUTnEW 2014 PRodUcTs

800 [email protected]

*This list is just a fraction of the clubs and groups out there. If you want to list your club or group with us, visit our website or send us an email: [email protected].

ACTIVITY REPORT

Words + Photos By: Sean James

The UAE is just waiting to be explored. New tracks appear and disappear every year as the road builders move throughout the land.

During the winter months, the Arabian Peninsula is incredibly green and lush.

No one will thank you for an 8km long section of deep gravel, even if it does have good training value.

Make sure the abilities of your team match the route you are intending to do. Too many misad-ventures will make those smiles vanish quickly.

Riding through deserts, palm plantations, mountains overlooking the twinkling sea, camels looking up at us curiously, locals who pay for your drinks when you stop in a village and not one No Cycling sign anywhere. Mountain biking has been kept as a bit of a secret from overseas cyclist. However you would struggle to find many places that equal the variety and distinctiveness of the UAE. Ive even seen pictures of heavenly trails in the mountains of Saudi Arabia and Yemen that look perfect for riding. If only it was easier to get there. If the oil ever runs out, adventure tourism will step in to prop up the UAE and those owning bike shops will be sitting on a gold mine.

So why are the trails so good? Emiratis were until recently nomadic people and travelled the country every year on foot. The trails and paths they forged through the mountains, wadis and desert now form an excellent facility for adventure sports such as mountain biking.

As an adventure capital to base oneself, Dubai is up there. Unlike other countries where there are numerous restrictions for bik-ers, the UAE is refreshingly relaxed. Respect for the individual and others is key in the UAE and no one will growl at you for simply mountain biking, even on private land. Quite the opposite, a recent trip to Oman, proved too much for us with the constant waving chil-dren and car horns that passed us. If youve visited North Africa or other Middle Eastern countries, you are in for a surprise with the UAE. At a glance, most would consider the Middle East not safe. In the UAE countryside, the behaviour is bizarre. On every ride without exception, and I ride a lot, I have encountered curious local drivers who on the one hand insist on driving like Sebastian Vettel on the blacktop will pull over on the trails and offer you water, food and ask where you are from.

So where are the best places to ride in the

Good, better, best

UAE? There are a number of geographical areas, each with its own unique characteristics. Showka and the Wadi Al Helo area is lower lying with rolling farm tracks through wadis that are never too steep. Jebel Yibir and the Tawyeen area are much steeper. Around RAK, there is seemingly a lot of potential, but the wadis are nearly all dead ends so out and backs are popular. Although the new road up to Jebel Jais has opened the tracks on the high plateau for riders. Hatta has shaded, lush colors and serenity.

One of the most popular areas in the UAE is the single-track at Showka. Purpose built from the natural landscape, it is a work of art and the immaculate trails are a joy to ride. The mountain bike community is growing in the UAE, as shown by the recent number of riders at the HotCog 6 event. However riders are now starting to look further afield and explore less frequented areas. The group of friends I ride with is an ever changing pool of about 10. Sometimes we are five, sometimes one. The choice of route and area we plan to ride are often key factors in determining how many we are come Friday. Look at the pictures with this article and see the variety. Everyone will have tracks they prefer. The week preceding the

Friday ride always follows the same pattern of interaction. On a Sunday or Monday, an email is sent around enquiring who is keen for a ride on Friday. Normally five or six riders are firmly committed at this stage. For the leader of the group it is a key part of the buildup as to when the route details are released. Too early and people drop out. Usually by Wednesday the route has been decided and everyone is excited. In psychology, each group, whether it is a group of friends, a club or at work is com-posed of different characters. Mountain bikers are no different. One of those team members can be called the phantom. The phantom is the rider who is always keen during the week and in the build-up. Come pre-ride day they suddenly discover plans that slipped their mind. This could be for a brunch, weddings, a ban by their partner when they find out who their beloved is going riding with or more often than not in Dubai, their coach has then on an easy 65% max HR day. No matter how many people turn up to ride, mountain biking in the UAE is always spectacular and you will never have a bad ride. Friday will always be the best day of the week. The day when you are free to ride the best mountain bike trails in the UAE.

Why is the Arabian Peninsula so good for mountain biking? The UAE and Oman are definitely, not even arguably, world class. Many residents take it for granted. Many dont even know it exists.

Making sure you pick the right route for your ride

13OUTDOORUAE

I have never driven 4x4, but when I was a child, Ive always been fascinated by competi-tions like the Camel Trophy also called the Olympics of 4x4. With the same spirit, I ap-proached this experience in the UAE desert.

Planning your off-road adventure is the most important. Stock your car with emergen-cy items: a reliable GPS system, tow rope and shackles, first aid kit, tyre gauge, spare tyre and jack, wooden board, charged mobile and charger, shovel, camera and sun block. Fill a cooler in your trunk and/or your back seat with bottled water for you and for the radiator.

Pack blankets and warm clothing in case you wind up stuck in the desert overnight. Bring enough snacks, sandwiches, meats and beverages to tide you over. Chairs, mats, especially a flashlight, firewood can be im-portant especially if you plan or forced to stay overnight. Off-roaders are an extremely social bunch; most trips end with an overnight camp out under the stars.

Bring maps, latest road information, compasses and pencils, long-term weather forecast, guides to navigation by sun and stars. If you are going in convoy, its important to brief everybody else about the path.

Car maintenance and equipment are ex-tremely important. Your 44 must be in good running condition with a full tank of petrol, but we also suggest you to fill up gas every time you get the chance.

You need a good, cold, working AC if you want to be comfortable. Prepare for heat: temperatures can be as high as 48C. Emer-gency situations are therefore to be expected

and planned for. Breakdowns, punctures, and bogging down in soft sand are the main difficulties.

Having a trainer showing you basic car mechanics, how to change a tyre, cool an engine, change a spare, and so on during the course, never hurt. Get trained in facing off-road situations. The best way to learn is to have a professional teach you and practice makes perfect.

Well, we are ready to turn our engine on.After 45 minutes driving off Dubai, we got

to our gate to the desert in order to reach the Pink Rocks. Before entering the desert, trainers taught us how to set tyre pressure, deflating them to below 15psi you can go as low as 8psi, but you run the risk of your tyres coming off the wheel. Generally, 12psi is very suitable.

Before starting the real off-road trip its also important:

To mark you entry point in your GPS so you know where to go if lost.

To put your 44 in 4 high (4 low is not ad-visable for most 4x4s as it makes you dig in).

To turn off stability controls and airbags (if option exists and at your own risk).

Never enter the desert alone and make sure you inform a friend where you are going and when you will be returning.

In the first part of the course, I had chance to learn some basic tips to drive into the desert. The fundamentals involved being in the right gear, maintaining momentum, never riding the clutch, spotting the clues that lead you to firmer sand, staying out of the bowls at the bottom of dunes, driving at speeds that ensure the preservation of your vehicle and carefully watching other vehicles for clues about what lies ahead.

Start off slow, power will simply dig you in the sand; move steering wheel side to side creating traction; never stop flat always stop uphill or downhill, this makes starting off much easier; dont cross dunes if you dont know whats on other side. You may risk nose diving or hitting another vehicle.

How to reach the Pink Rocks: start from N 25 01.389 E 55 40.610 on the Nazwa Road, to the left of the Hatta road before you reach Big Red from Dubai. Youll be heading east to

Pink Rocks at N 25 01.227 E 55 43.549. Here you have a choice; turn north and parallel the escarpment or south where youll find a route up to the top of the rocks a great place for photos (if visibility is good) and a picnic lunch. Now work your way down towards N 25 03.039 E 55 44.051 and pick up the track heading roughly NNW towards a large open plain. Stay on the same heading and youll hit the new road beyond Nazwa. Turn left if youre heading to Dubai.

During the course I also had chance to learn how to get unstuck. Follow these steps to avoid one of your mates having bragging rights for pulling you out:

Release throttle immediately Go outside and assess situation Determine which tyre needs support or

hanging. Determine which way you should move.

Normally, you should move in a downhill di-rection as it is very difficult for your vehicle to go uphill in sand. Be friends with gravity use it to your advantage.

Clear out tyres and the 44 body of sand and get your passenger to push (shedding extra weight from the 44 in the process)

If the body of the 44 is sitting on the sand, you may need a tow.

A single day course is not enough to assimi-late everything; off-road driving techniques must be learned over many months and even the most experienced drivers still get caught out. Join a club, join the off-road trips organ-ised and practice a lot.

Ready to drive,

Nico

Off-road and desert driving course in DubaiPhotos By: Massimo ZiinoWords By: Nicola de Corato

A desert driving course will teach you all the strategies and tech-niques for driving in the desert. Being fond of motorsports, I immediately accepted the invitation of my friend Minas of OffRoad Zone (www.offroad-zone.com) to take part in one of the courses they usually organise here in Dubai.

Nico is a blogger, marathon runner and triathlete, diver and heli rescue swim-merwith Bergamo Scuba Angels. You can read his blog atwww.dubayblog.comor email him [email protected] for information about Dubai and desert trips, to schedule a desert run together, or just to say hello.

ACTIVITY REPORT

Words By: Nick Yates

MaxiMuM output with MiniMuM input.

Pro Performance RaceRace Le

Pro Performance WaveWave Le

Performance Race/Wave/Touring

KahoLoRace/WaveTouring/All-around

MaKaniWomens Race/Wave/Touring/All-around

aLanaKids All-aroundKeiKi

All-around/CruisingheLe

All-around/RecreationalSpoRt

Our newly developed 2014 SUP Paddles bring forth a combination of technology and power that are fine-tuned to make the most out of every stroke whether you are racing, wave riding, cruising or just learning.

Whether youre a first-time paddler or a serious racer or waverider, Naish has perfected the details to bring you ultimate confidence regardless of skill, size or performance level.

At Naish, we continually strive to achieve excellence in performance, not just in our boards, but in everything we do.

Phot

o: Y.Lii

Sizes: 8.0, 8.5, 9.0Sizes: 8.0, 8.5, 9.0Size: 7.0Size: 7.0Sizes: 7.0, 8.5 Size: 8.5

Ocean Sports FZE: +971 (0) 55 935 2735 [email protected] kitesurfsup.com naishsup.comNaishStandUpPaddling

EVENT REPORT

Organised by the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle Club, the Team Paddle Challenge Stand Up for Raelyn was dedicated to Stand Up Paddling (SUP) and fundraising for Raelyn. In keeping with the number of her age, teams of four paddled around a 400m circuit in Yas Marina for four hours.

Not only did the 12 teams have to always

Team Paddle Challenge Stand Up For Raelyn at Yas MarinaRaelyn is the young, playful

four-year-old daughter of Greg and Rebecca Beckler, Stand Up Paddlers from California, USA. She is a typical child full of life. But at age two and a half, Raelyn was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leu-kemia and takes daily tablets of chemotherapy and steroids among other powerful medi-cines. She has spent more time in a hospital than she has at the park or on the beach, but Raelyn keeps fighting. On January 25th, paddlers from around the UAE gathered in Abu Dhabi to sup-port her fight.

have a team member on the water pad-dling around the course, but they also had to complete certain challenges along the way. There were laps where a paddler had to paddle on the left side only, paddle standing backwards, two people on the board but only one paddling and a lap where even the paddler was blind-folded being given direc-

14 OUTDOORUAE


MaxiMuM output with MiniMuM input.

Pro Performance RaceRace Le

Pro Performance WaveWave Le

Performance Race/Wave/Touring

KahoLoRace/WaveTouring/All-around

MaKaniWomens Race/Wave/Touring/All-around

aLanaKids All-aroundKeiKi

All-around/CruisingheLe

All-around/RecreationalSpoRt

Our newly developed 2014 SUP Paddles bring forth a combination of technology and power that are fine-tuned to make the most out of every stroke whether you are racing, wave riding, cruising or just learning.

Whether youre a first-time paddler or a serious racer or waverider, Naish has perfected the details to bring you ultimate confidence regardless of skill, size or performance level.

At Naish, we continually strive to achieve excellence in performance, not just in our boards, but in everything we do.

Phot

o: Y.Lii

Sizes: 8.0, 8.5, 9.0Sizes: 8.0, 8.5, 9.0Size: 7.0Size: 7.0Sizes: 7.0, 8.5 Size: 8.5

Ocean Sports FZE: +971 (0) 55 935 2735 [email protected] kitesurfsup.com naishsup.comNaishStandUpPaddling

tions by a teammate. Everyones favourite challenge was the team challenge on the Naish Fun Island. Each team took turns pad-dling the 3m x 3m inflatable island around the course.

This event brought together people from all over Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There were paddlers of all ages representing the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle Club, Surf Dubai, Naish Middle East, Spartans AD and Live Love SUP. But this wasnt just an isolated event in the UAE. It all started from a con-versation between Shane Perrin, a Live Love SUP brand ambassador and ultra-distance Stand Up Paddler, and Greg Beckler. When Shane found about Raelyns story, he wanted

to dedicate an adventure to her. To coincide with his ultra-distance 24-hour land paddle (thats riding on a longboard with a paddle), he called upon SUP community leaders to rally their paddlers and fundraise with their own event. Events happened all across the US from California to Texas, Minnesota to Florida. The international edition happened here in Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina.

Jen Scully and Nick Yates answered that call with the club and also sponsored the event with Live Love SUP, their SUP lifestyle brand. They also pledged for every lap pad-dled and after four hours paddling, 579 laps were completed in total by the 12 teams. But the generosity didnt stop there. The

Womens SUP Racing Group based out of Michigan also sponsored Team Live Love SUP and their laps.

It was all for Raelyn, a little girl who is battling to live a normal life one without the powerful drugs and medicine that would keep even an adult down. Many of the pad-dlers were stoked to have participated and supported Raelyn at Abu Dhabis Yas Marina and particularly loved the challenges. It truly was a great SUP community effort and even got new paddlers involved for the first time. The smiles were endless throughout the day and while Raelyn couldnt be with us at the event, she was in our thoughts with every lap paddled.

16 OUTDOORUAE

DMX Review is kindly sponsored and supported by

Position No. Name Laps Total time

1 1 Ross Runnalls 12 20:01.921

2 2 Dale Jullien 12 20:43.609

3 12 Sean Gaugain 12 20:53.208

4 23 Mohammed Jaffar 12 21:17.510

5 4 Ryan Wynn 12 21:22.409

MX2



2 12 Sean Gaugain 13 22:41.323

3 18 Ben Menzies 13 22:49.626

4 11 Dale Jullen 13 23:17.651

5 7 Mohammed Al Balooshi

13 23:18.130

6 33 Josh Brodalka 12 22:11.269

MX1

MX1

Position No. Name Laps Total time diff Best time in lap Best speed

1 11 Erik Langdren 11 19:55.801 01:56.5307 52.519

2 5 Dean Jullien 11 20:45.33400:49.533

02:01.9493 50.185

3 73 Darren Berry 11 20:51.05800:55.257

02:03.1502 49.695

4 22 Nicholas Kefford 10 20:23.113 1 Lap 02:01.4647 50.385

125cc


1 22 Nick Kefford 7 14:37.016

2 19 Eugenio Barbaglia 7 15:00.836

3 174a Abdullah Al Nuaimi 7 16:04.853

4 42 Samuel Porter 7 16:06.540

5 199 Harry Suddards 7 17:00.061

6 88 Alex Mortada 6 15:39.749

65cc and 85cc


1 11 Erik Langdren 10 19:19.340

2 5 Dean Jullien 10 20:10.546

3 73 Darren Berry 10 20:14.474

4 22 Nicholas Kefford 10 21:04.723

125cc


1 13 Shannon O Connor 8 15:58.204

2 28 Hamdan Al Tamimi 8 16:09.551

3 5 Sean Holder 8 16:26.856

4 310 Jarno Elo 8 16:33.664

5 895 Brent Gregson 8 16:33.854

6 27 Corrado Meneghello 8 16:45.800

Masters and Clubman


1 310 Jarno Elo 10 20:03.467

2 13 Shannon O Connor 10 20:11.825

3 895 Brent Gregson 10 20:32.308

4 5 Sean Holder 10 20:51.115

5 25 Duncan Crerar 10 21:03.323

Masters and Clubman


1 22 Nick Kefford 6 12:18.292

2 19 Eugenio Barbaglia 6 12:34.276

3 174a Abdullah Al Nuaimi 6 13:36.125

4 199 Harry Suddards 6 14:42.609

5 88 Alex Mortada 5 13:09.505

65cc and 85cc

MOTO 2DMX Round 5 Results2013-2014 race season

Position No. Name Laps Total time diff Best time in lap Best speed

1 1 Ross Runnalls 12 21:14.866 01:41.0231 60.580

2 12 Sean Gaugain 12 22:08.71500:53.849

01:49.1824 56.053

3 18 Ben Menzies 12 22:12.78600:57.920

01:48.6003 56.354

4 11 Dale Jullen 12 22:14.73300:59.867

01:48.7748 56.263

5 15 Mark Acker-man

12 22:44.31901:29.453

01:51.3223 54.976



2 2 Dale Jullien 11 20:48.181

3 12 Sean Gaugain 11 20:57.971

4 4 Ryan Wynn 11 21:02.005

5 23 Mohammed Jaffar 11 21:04.325

6 14 Mitch Malpass 11 21:36.049

MX2

MOTO 1 High-octane action at the fifth round on January 10 at the Jebel Ali track.

MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Riders flip through the OutdoorUAE magazine during the DMX Round 5.

How did you get into motocross? My dad bought me a bike for my fourth birthday as he used to ride in his younger years as well. I started riding at the local track as a beginner like everyone else; after the first ride I could not stay away from motocross and the rest was history. I had a big passion for moto-cross since then and the feeling hasnt changed to this very day. I started competing nationally all around South Africa from the age of five. I was always usually in the top three at every race. I have been riding for 15 years now.

What would you say is your greatest racing achievement so far? That would be racing in the Qatar GP in the most prestigious motocross championship in the world. It was such a great achievement as I got to ride with all the fastest racers in the world and a lot of my heroes that I have looked up to since I was a kid.

Whats your training schedule like? I train every single day usually unless a sick-ness prevents me from doing so. I alternate between running, rowing, cycling and intense gym work. I usually train on the motorbike three times a week and if for some reason I cannot, I usually replace riding with running. Motocross is extremely, physically demanding in cardiovascular fitness, core strength, agility,

Age: 19Nationality: South AfricanOccupation: StudentRace number: 1Bike: Kawasaki 450 and 250Class: MX1 and MX2

reflexes and strength. Therefore it is vital to do lots of endurance training as it improves your fitness leading to more improvements on the motorcy-cle such as speed and consistency in lap times.

How do you balance your schedule?I have time before my work starts in early mornings to do exercises or go riding, it depends on what I feel is best for myself and body to continue to progress without getting injured or demoti-vated.

Whats your mindset during a race? Starts are very important as it sets you up for the rest of the race. A good start puts you instantly ahead of your competitors, gives you a clear track and no distrac-tions therefore you can plan the rest of the race. I usually try to get a good start and then just go as fast as I can and try to be as con-sistent with my speed as possible. Usually, a race lasts 25 minutes so this could be 12 laps of hard work and constantly pushing yourself at 100% throughout the race. Mistakes are easy to make thats why when riding you have to be so aware as you are doing multiple things at once such as braking, leaning, body move-ment, clutch and cornering all at once. During a race my plan is to go fast, be consistent and minimise mistakes.

Is there tough competition between the racers and between team members?Yes, there is a lot of close racing at times which makes it fun because your adrenaline and brain is working that much more and its exciting because anything can happen at any point. In MX2 class, myself and two of our riders are placed in the top three in the overall standings, which is great and shows how close things are. In MX1 class, myself and another rider are placed 1st and 2nd in the overall standings which shows how dominating the Kawasaki team is this year and really sets the standard for other brands to step up in the UAE.

What do you like most about riding for the Kawasaki team?The support system we have is great. All the help we receive from Sheikh Khalid Al Qasimi and Liberty Kawasaki management team is really great and shows how the right tools and support can help create a dominating team. Also the bikes are very strong and enjoyable. Kawasaki are really organised which helps with any issues that occur with the bikes and other problems.

You are last years MX1 and MX2 champ, do you feel any pressure this year?Of course there is pressure and expectations to perform, but I like the pressure as it motivates me to train harder and get better as a rider. Also Ive been riding for a long time so the expectations are not only from other people but I also expect myself to perform at a good level. If I am not performing at that level then I step up my training and riding until I can get to a good level. I am constantly trying to push

the limits on the motorbike so I can continually improve. I also think it is good to stay mentally strong as you are in control of everything you do. Strong mentality gives you the advantage of positive training and racing in which you perform better and confident.

What has this sport taught you?It takes hard work to achieve high goals and you have to continuously push your body

and mind to not only achieve expectations but exceed them for great results. Nothing comes easy without hard work and deter-mination. Yes, natural talent is important, but like everything in life practice makes perfect and youll never know what you can achieve if you keep settling once you have achieved a goal. It is important to keep pushing your limits and goals as nobody knows what you are capable of if you dont prepare and work for it.

What does riding mean to you?Ever since I sat on a bike the first time, its been the biggest part of my life. It is honestly one of those sports that you never get tired of or bored. The adrenaline, speed and danger make it an ever-changing and exuberating sport that has unlimited potential in which anything can happen at any second. It will al-ways be a big part of my life. I live and breathe motocross.

Injuries is part of any sport, have you had any serious ones?Luckily, I have no major injuries in my career as yet. Obviously it is a very dangerous sport as big jumps, high speeds and crashing are part of the sport. Every motocross rider will know that crashing comes at any point and big ones can cause serious injuries. So far my worst injuries are a broken wrist and a concussion; I have been very lucky as far as injuries because I know many riders with over 10 broken bones.

What should fans look forward to this season? The racing and individual battles on the track are continuously on the go between different riders. Its so great because riders all trying to fit in a limited space and using their skills to manoeuvre their bikes into tight spaces to get ahead of the opponents on the track. DMX have great seating and shaded areas that spectators can use, and food and drinks are available at any point of the day.

What is your advice for those interested in motocross?If you want to do motocross professionally dont settle for okay or all right, you have to push the limits and be a step ahead at every single thing you can such as diet, training, ability, skills and so on. Dont limit yourself and take every opportunity to improve. For a hobby motocross, it is a great sport as you can pretty much do it anywhere with as many mates as you want and have great fun. Just enjoy being on the bike and take it easy.

Ross Ian Runnalls

At the Urban-Ultra

Azimuth Wall

Start of the ladies Awafi race

18 OUTDOORUAE

EVENT REPORT

3rd January, AWAFI/Giant Mountain Bike Race, RAKThis inaugural free-to-enter race was a tremendous success after the short notice of preparation given to the organisers. A large (for MTB races) prize fund attracted 200 riders to the trails behind Ras Al Kkaimah en route to Jebel Jais. Turn left and a newly created course in an old quarry proved a perfect mountain-drop setting. Surrounded by hills, the course comprised of sand (of course), dirt, bombholes, gradual ascents and descents, three drop-offs and a green single-track bordering a sheep wall reminiscent of Peak District sheep pens. The short laps of 3.5km meant for exciting racing and easy access for spectators. This was a real good one.Smile factor: Lose half mark for strange start times, lose a mark for results service, but add one for prize money and large trophies 4.5 out of 5 stars

10th January, Urban-Ultra Trail Run Khatt Springs, RAKLung-busting steep ascent and a quad-bash-ing descent featured in the annual race up and down the mountain sloping into the Khatt Springs area. A clearly defined vertiginous track led competitors in a dawn race up this vista-laden trail run. Early sunshine cast long shadows across the neighbouring ravines leading up to the summits. In the opposite direction, Ras Al Khaimah awakened as you looked across houses and desert to the sea.

January Jaunts in UAEWords By: Stephen TurnerPhotos By: Margot Turner

Near the top a cool breeze blew, the crest revealing hundreds of hills inland waiting to be explored. The descent passed through a small village where barefooted children looked on in bewilderment. We taught them high-fives which they gleefully anticipated on the next lap. Unlike some large marathons, this boutique special event was extremely well-organised in a very personal and straight-forward manner over a very challenging and tough climb. Every finisher was a winner.Smile factor: Urban-Ultra gets better and bet-ter 5 stars

12th January, Hike in TawiyenA group of friends are hiking the routes fol-lowing the maps featured in previous issues of OutdoorUAE magazine (please print more routes!). Number three was on our list but the rain and low fog changed our plans. Plus the muddy trail conditions meant that our soft-roader was only just able to survive. Instead, a hike along the Wadi Orag was chosen as a simple alternative. A little scrambling amongst the boulders and on the lower slab of Azimuth climbing wall entertained us, spotting the bolted routes and noting to return with climb-ing gear. Rock falls from the road building made for diversionary house-sized boulders, one of which looked like a giant toad. Even when out in the remote country it always glad-dens me that the locals are so friendly, smiling and waving encouragement as we wander their hills.Smile factor: No sunshine and no summit view, so lose a point 4 stars

17th January, Hot Cog Hot 6 six-hour mountain bike race in ShowkaIt is immensely satisfying racing a bike in the late afternoon. The suns setting rays darken shadows around the rocks along the route, making them seem more challenging and also more obvious. Its the sixth hour and you know the course like the back of your hand. Some entrants have stopped so the trails belong to

you. Managing the lactic acid in your legs up and over the by now well-known humps and jumps, hills and thrills, the adrenaline rushes through your body as you push for the finish line. Tiredness evaporates as the rhythm of the race speeds you along, flicking wheels be-tween boulders and using momentum to crest obstacles. As the organiser announced at the start briefing: This is a Hot Cog course, chal-lenging and testing. And it was. Perpetually rocky, it linked together most of the well-loved rides in Showka to form an undulating 7.7km lap. Competitors formed up solo or in teams of pairs with very generous prizes for winners from numerous sponsors. The bike shop industry made this a special event by erecting their colourful tents to bring a much appreci-ated professional buzz to the mountain bike race. And a must-mention, thanks to Planet Coffee for providing free coffee for the event. What a magnificent idea. Only in Dubai. The bike community really came out to support this event and it was a belter.Smile factor: Mountain bike racing at its best 5+ stars

Times Square Center, Dubai

NEW STORES OPENING SOON The Beach - JBR, Dubai | Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi

20 OUTDOORUAE

Words By: Jennifer HardiePhotos Supplied By: Jumeirah Group

EVENT REPORT

How long have you been sailing for?Ive been sailing since I was 10 years old. I first started in a Laser 4.7, I then moved up to a Laser Radial and then a Laser Standard.

Tell me about your sailing career? I was the first sailor to represent the UAE

Jennifer Hardie had the opportunity to sit down with professional sailor Adil Khalid, who is the UAEs first Olympic sailor and the first Arab sailor to compete in the Volvo Ocean Race with Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, to hear more about sailing in the UAE and Adils plans for the future.

at the Olympics in Beijing in 2008. It was a great feeling, its all athletes dream to compete in the Olympics. You work eight to 10 years to reach there. It was a great experi-ence. For me it wasnt about winning, it was about competing. I was so proud to show the whole world that Arabs can sail.

I spend most of my time travelling around and racing with the best people in the world. I am so passionate about sailing; I just love what Im doing. I am also fortunate that the leadership in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are so supportive of sailing in the UAE.

Do you have plans to go back to compet-ing in Laser or another class of boat for the Olympics?Im focusing on the Volvo Ocean Race for 2014-2015, after then I will try a few different classes of boats, and then hopefully try to qualify for the Olympics. As for the type of boat, I might try to do Laser again, or pos-sibly a 49er or 470.

The Volvo Ocean Race starts in the autumn, what preparation do you need to do in advance?In early February, the Abu Dhabi Ocean

An interview with Adil Khalid

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture AuthorityPhoto Supplied By:


UAE Nationals, Round 3: 24 - 25 January 2014

Optimist Junior (under 11 years)1st Jentl Hanemaaijer, DOSC 2nd Matthew Hardie, DOSC3rd Abdulla Nooh Alraeesi, AHCSC

Optimist1st Jentl Hanemaaijer, DOSC2nd Lucy Wilson, DOSC3rd Matthew Hardie, DOSC

Laser 4.71st Saif Ibrahim Al Naimie, EHC2nd Hamood Salem Al Zaidi, EHC3rd Maxence van Belberghe, DOSC

Laser Radial1st Saeed Salem Al Zaidi, EHC2nd Fionn Conway, DOSC3rd Saif Ibrahim Ah Hamadi, EHC

Laser Standard1st Al Tate, DOSC2nd John Woolcock, DOSC3rd James Hopson, DOSC

Open Dinghy1st Nikolaj Myhre, DOSC2nd Rob Fordyce, DOSC3rd Marc Bell, DOSC

Jumeirah Regatta at DOSC: 23 - 25 January 2014

IRC 11st Diablo, Doug Hassell2nd Sovereign, Cameron Price3rd Nefertiti, David Rostant

IRC 21st Impi, Perry Tonking2nd Shahrazad, David Worrall3rd Clairedelune, GaetanHerve

IRC 31st Insatiable, Alan Saunders2nd Maijay, Glen Sansom3rd Tosser, Tom Coldicott

Racing team comes together in the UK, and well undergo some of our physical training before heading to Portugal for four to five months training out at sea. Well then par-ticipate in a few sailing events before all the boats set off from Alicante, Spain in October.

Whats it like being out at sea for such a long time?Were out at sea for nine months in total, but we often have a few weeks stopover in the different ports.

I love it. You forget the world; especially when youre doing what you love. When you wake up seeing your countrys flag behind you, it motivates you. Im happy when Im aboard the sailing yacht. I also feel very proud to share our Emirati culture when I meet people.

What was your most memorable moment from the last Volvo Ocean Race?I have many, but a few that stand out are winning the first in-port race in Alicante and winning the in-port race in Abu Dhabi, my home port race. You cannot forget it: when you see one hundred to two hundred thou-sand people cheering you on, its amazing. Its nice to see that people have respect for what youre doing.

Youre also a role model for Emirati youth. What do you do to get them involved in the sport?You have to teach them and give them your time. Ill go out on the water and show them how to improve their sailing techniques. I also still compete in the UAE Nationals when my schedule allows it, or I come down to support our sailors.

The Volvo Ocean Race covers 10 cities in 10 countries: Spain, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, China, New Zealand, Brazil, USA, Portugal, France and Sweden. The teams cover 39,379 nautical miles, which is equiva-lent to 45,317mi or 72,930km. The race will start on 4th October 2014 in Alicante, and finish on 27 June 2015 in Gothenburg, the Swedish home of Volvo.

The Volvo Ocean Race will be in Abu Dhabi from 15th December 2014 to 3rd January 2014.

January SailingDubai was the place to be this January for lots of sailing. The Dubai Offshore Sailing Club (DOSC) held a number of sailing races for adults and children throughout the month. The two biggest events were the third round of the UAE Nationals, 24th-25th January, and the Jumeirah Regatta, 23rd-25th January. Friday and Saturday started out with very little wind, but soon picked up to deliver some great racing for all competitors. The UAE Nationals had 95 dinghy sailboats from around the UAE competing for top spots; while the Jumei-rah Regatta had more than 45 keelboats take to the waters for three days of action packed racing.

February - March Sailing Events14th-15th February, UAE Nationals Round 4, Hamriyah

22nd February, Sail Around The World Islands, DOSC

7th-8th March, UAE Nationals Round 5, Abu Dhabi

11th-15th March, Mussanah Race Week, Oman

UAE Sailing Results January

Jennifer Hardie works in the world of PR by day, but after hours is Membership Secretary at DOSC and races a Laser when shes not accompanying her 10-year-old son Matthew to Optimist events around the world. Shes always happy to answer sailing related questions: [email protected]

EVENT REPORT

Faced with a stiff morning breeze and temperatures barely reaching double digits, the kaleidoscopic mass of 550 racers was led by race creator Sean Kinsella to the starting line an abandoned service road that sent runners into the vast emptiness of the desert. That emptiness was short-lived as each runner approached the dreaded Sandbag Pick-up Point a nasty 30kg for men and 15kg for women.

Having kept dry for the first 3kms of the race, athletes were then forced to fight the currents up the Wadi Adventure whitewater channels, ending up at the familiar Raft Leap. Keeping to the classics, Sean relied on a number of tried-and-tested obstacles, but also introduced a range of new and excit-ing obstacles to keep the runners guessing. New obstacles included enlisting the help of our friends at the Emirates Fire & Rescue Company hosing runners down as they passed; a new Tire Pull challenge set up by the Reebok LifeSpark crew; and 2.5 tons

The spoilsof WARSaturday, January 18th

saw 550 competitors coming together to take on the fifth installment of the Wadi Adven-ture Race a gruelling 10km obstacle race hosted by Wadi Adventure in Al Ain.

Rank Name Bib Nationality Finish time

1 Kilian Foulon 544 FRA 00:55:20

2 Ryan Jucker 36 RSA 00:56:41

3 Boris Rajencikz 545 SVK 00:56:42

4 Boumedienne Antar 115 FRA 00:56:55

5 Grant Goes 106 NZL 00:56:56

6 James MacDonald 27 CAN 00:57:48

7 Paul Mueller 114 AUS 00:57:49

8 Adrien Charon 80 FRA 00:59:08

9 Levi Angelo Blancke Denys 110 ESP 00:59:10

10 Sam OShea 105 GBR 00:59:37

Race results

of ice dumped into the Ice Pit and Plunge Pool below the monkey bars. As always, run-ners had to scale the three-metre high Wall before stepping onto the finishing mat and collecting the coveted WAR medal.

Lifting the trophy in first place for the Men Category A was Olympic kayaker Kilian Foulon, with a time of 55:20. In second place, Ryan Jucker with 56:41, and just one second behind, Boris Rajencikz in third with a time of 56:42.

Winning the Ladies Category A for the second time in a row was Eva Clarke in a time of 1:00:27. In second place with a time

of 1:02:16 was Frances McNally, and Sylwia Zacharko in third at 1:06:52. Winners in the Men and Ladies Categories B and C were: Martin Healy and Kamil Kapkaev, and Jelena Tustic and Kelly Fray respectively.

Overall, runners and spectators were treated to a day full of fun and giveaways, generously provided by event sponsors (Gold Level sponsors including: Active Life from Daman Insurance, Al Noor Hospital, and East-ern Motors), and music on the beach provided by the One To One Hotel in Al Ain. For im-ages of the race, please visit www.facebook.com/WadiAdventureRace.


The best just got even better. With the addition of a fth lug, our shoes now oer

even more of the performance and responsiveness that makes us unique and

unparallelled. You thought four was great? How about + one.

Distributed by: Sport In Life | +971 4 289 6001 | www.sportinlife.ae | [email protected]

AVAI

LABL

E SOO

N AT

ADV

ENTU

RE H

Q AN

D IN

TERS

PORT

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

I can hear the sound of cracked collarbone and feel the wave of pain. Im shocked, my head hurts, the pain does not allow me to raise my hand. So this is the end of our journey. After two months of trekking through Indian Himalayas, near Gaumukh, I was pulled by Diuna, our ceskoslovensky vlcak (wolfdog), fell down on a stone and broke my collarbone. We are 16km away from nearest civilization and more than 100km to the hospital... India. Our dream that has finally come true We have been invited to India in autumn 2012 by a young Hindu journalist we met during one of our climbing trips over Armenia. The call sounded serious and tempting: Ive decided to come back to India and start my own news-paper, The Outdoor Journal. I need help from someone who knows climbing and photogra-phy. Your help.

We did not hesitate for a moment. The dream has just come true, this was our calling. The only obstacle happened to have four paws and a wet nose. But was it a real obstacle at all? Leaving our dog was not an option. When we decided on having a dog, we knew she would accompany us everywhere. Even when we heard those kind of questions like: India with a dog?or You cannot do it.

Of course we can - after several months of

Himalayas on four pawsDog trekking through Indian Garhwal

Ill see you in two months and then we decide. For now, please save your arm. It may take up to two months to heal the broken collarbone, but I cannot guarantee the fracture is healed, the voice of the surgeon sounded decisive.

Words By: Agata Wlodarczyk and Przemek BucharowskiPhotos By: Przemek Bucharowski

preparation, in mid January 2013 we landed at the international airport in New Delhi.

So there the story begins. Soon, however, it turns out that life in India with a dog, is not a fairytale, and there is not a good ending at all.

We have been climbing a few times during our stay in Delhi. First, at an artificial outdoor wall in Indian Mountaineering Foundation. Later, close to Gurgaon and New Delhi, at the rocks in Dhauj. The spot is located at the desert area with an old dried-up lake, accom-panied by 10-30m high rocks. Climbers from abroad look like aliens, women in sari passing by with brushwood on their heads, children herding goats and city people who come to Dhauj to speed up and burn rubber (flat sandy area is perfect for motorcycle sports, so

24 OUTDOORUAE

popular nowadays in India). In the middle of this madness there are two Polish climbers and the dog.

Apart from those short climbs outside Delhi, it soon became clear that life in the big Indian city with a dog becomes more and more diffi-cult. After three months we have had enough. We want to go back to Warsaw, a city that seemed to be gray and dull on the departure. For us, Warsaw shines again in our dreams. We miss the European lifestyle, Poland and Warsaw, but most often our thoughts turn to the Tatra Mountains, our idyllic place. The decision was made, we decided to go back. But then it turned out that our fairytale from One Thousand and One Nights is more like Shrek. Hows that? In European Union, the companion animal travel has been subject to strict laws and regulations. This is meant to avoid spreading or re-introducing rabies. The conditions for the non-commercial move-ment of pet animals have been harmonised under the conditions laid down in Regulation 998/2003 of UE. Pets should be identified by an electronic identification system (transpond-er) or by a clearly readable tattoo applied before 3rd July 2011. For all movements, the animal needs to be accompanied by a pass-port and should have valid rabies vaccination. Pets coming from third world countries should have a positive serological test - a blood sam-ple taken at least 30 days after it was vacci-nated and three months before movement.

This can be certified only by an approved EU lab. We have all the papers except blood test. Nobody told us in Poland it was required to re-enter European Union.

So we have spent another three months in India What shall we do, we asked each other. Coming back and risking the quarantine for Diuna was not an option. What to do? Easiest solutions are always hardest to find. Lets spend those three months in Himalayas, lets go dog trekking! After all, Garhwal is only 500km away from Delhi.

The assumption was simple. We bought a tent (the cheapest available Chinese produc-tion), packed our backpacks with basic and essential gear and headed to Munsiari, a town on the border triangle of India, China and Ne-pal. From there we headed west on foot, living as nomads on the roof of the world. Most nights we spent at many-stars hotel in our tent, sometimes we sought refuge in Hindu temples, village huts made of clay and stone (which often do not have toilets, but satellite dish is a must), rarely-cheap hostels for back-packers. We tried to avoid major hiking trails, all the food for us and the dog we carried in our backpacks then cooked it over a campfire. We did not use porters and guides, travelling on our own.

Every morning we woke up with a view on

five or six and seven-thousand-metres-high peaks of Maiktoli, Bhagirathi, Trisul, Nanda Devi, Shivling, etc. Performed basic duties pitch a tent, set campfire, cook, feed Diuna, pack our gear and walk through the moun-tains with our wolfdog. Clear the mind and follow the sun, forget about our problems and live with the nature. Walking up and down, through villages, meadows and high passes, heading west of Garhwal.

After 55 days we have trekked through

25OUTDOORUAE


the Himalayan range (from Munsiari towards Gangotri) walking 500km (the other 500km spent in buses and jeeps). During those two months, we have visited 12 Himalayan valleys suspended between six and seven-thousand-metres high mountain peaks, occasionally losing the trail and surviving the moments of true horror being lost in the jungle. We have climbed 63km vertically its like summiting Mount Everest seven times, starting from sea level. And there might be nothing interest-ing just an ordinary trekking but we have been accompanied by Diuna, our brave Czechoslovakian wolfdog, first polish dog in Garhwal Himalayas. The high mountains seen from the perspective of dog paws looked completely different. Why should they be nice and easy?Wandering with a dog can be an experience that can literally freeze the blood in your veins. One day, on the way to Pindari valley, unleashed Diuna (we went down a very steep, slippery slope) chased a herd of goats grazing nearby. Although recalled, Diuna havent returned for half an hour. When she finally came back, her jaws and front legs had been full of blood. The fear paralysed us. Has anything happened to her? Maybe she was at-tacked by another dog defending goats herd? Or maybe... no, she could have not hunted. But it turned out to be true. For the first time in her life, Diuna unleashed her wolf ances-tors instinct to hunt the fleeing animal. Shes an adult now, not a puppy anymore. In a short time we have been surrounded by a dozen of residents from the nearby village Lahur. The old lady and the owner of a herd of goats, bewailed on a mountain slope. After several hours of negotiations conducted in Hindi (a language we did not know), English (knew by one inhabitant of the village) and the interna-

tional body language, we were able to come to an agreement: we pay for damage, and the goat would be eaten by the people of Lahur (another 30 kg of supplies was beyond us).

Dog trekking builds very close relation with your dog, thin leash with a shock-absorber makes both of you a team, the dog is your partner. In the mountains, your four-pawed partner pulls you up, but also drags you down. From now on, we promised ourselves not to unleash Diuna below 3,500m above sea level. Even on the steepest slopes, we go with Diuna strapped to our backpack hip belt. It worked well provided that there is no wild animal nearby. No command is able to stop her.

After two months of our trekking we have reached the holy place for Hindu religion Gaumukh, the source of Ganges River coming out from melting glacier of Bhagirathi. On June 1st, Diuna scented the presence of a herd of Himalayan Tahrs (rare animals resem-bling mountain goats). Suddenly she dragged Agata so hard causing her to fall down and hit her shoulder badly. When she got up, the col-larbone was broken. This was the end of our adventure, now was the time for rescue. The nearest town of Gangotri was 16km, ironically there was nobody in this pilgrimage area, no cell phone coverage, no help available. We managed to go down to the village and left next day to Uttarkashi for emergency.

Its been five months since the accident, the collarbone was eventually operated in Poland. We cannot be angry with Diuna, but we believe that this fate rescued us from Garhwal. The day we left Gangotri, Himalayas haunted an early monsoon (usually it arrives a month later), bringing heavy rains and flooding. Thou-sands of people were trapped in the place where we had been a few days earlier. More than 100,000 people have been evacuated from the mountains by military helicopters. A month later, in Poland, it turned out that 5,000 people were missing during the Himalayan tsunami were considered dead. We live, thanks to Diuna.

Travelling with a dog is not an easy job. But

we cannot imagine doing it without Diuna. She is a part of our family and we are responsible for her. Our 500km dog trekking gave us a lot of experience and we know now that you can follow your dreams accompanied by your dog. And also inspire thousands of people back in Poland to go for a long dog walk.

For 2014, we plan 1,000km long trek over Mongolian Altai. With Diuna of course! You can help us inspire more people, visit igg.me/at/dogtrekking or you can send your dona-tions via PayPal account [email protected].


27OUTDOORUAE

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

Luckily, Im not very good at listening to advice. There is nothing as strange as nature, and the north island has some of the strang-est sights. New Zealand is also famous as a place of adventure, so can a young family really enjoy the fruits this land has to offer?

We visited the islands in November, dur-ing spring. The days were getting warmer, but I have a strong suspicion that outdoor pursuits might be code for keeping active to keep out the cold. I love sports, but there was no way I was getting in that sea until things properly heat up.

Although a pleasant town, Auckland isnt a great bustling city, and its not the main reason to visit New Zealand, so we headed to Coromandel for an introduction to the countryside.

The views are tremendous. From clear, blue waters to rocky islands, cliff archways and rich pastures, the coastline is stunning. We spent a couple of fun hours digging around on Hot Water Beach, where natural hot springs surface on the beach take a spade and you can create your own spa. The water is really hot enough to boil an egg in places so keep an eye on little ones.

From there it is a long drive to the Waito-mo Caves, but hearing that it was a spectacu-

Helen McClure is the journalist behind www.expatexplorers.org, a travel and ex-pat website offering free independent in-sights, ideas and inspiration. Follow her on www.facebook.com/expatexplorersand www.twitter.com/expatexplorers.

Her travelling experiences have included backpacking in South America and the Far East, touring Europe in a camper van, working in villages in Africa, travelling with the British Army in Kenya, Oman and Northern Ireland, working in Saudi Arabia, living in Kuwait, Chicago and the United Arab Emirates. She is known for being sport mad (all sports), running long distances (just mad) and being competitive (in everything).

lar site, and with the Middle Earth countryside to keep our eyes feasted, we decided it was worth the effort. Although known to the Maoris, it was only discovered by Westerns in 1887 when English surveyor Fred Mace was introduced to it by local tribesmen. The caves have the usual beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, lit in interesting ways to resemble elephants or the pointing finger of ET, but its real draw are the glow worms; thousands of tiny blue lights that cling to the ceiling and are only revealed in the pitch dark. A boat ride, where the participants remain respect-fully silent, makes this a haunting trip.

Rotorua is a well-known tourist magnet due to its hot springs, and although commercial-ised it still retains its charm and is a pretty chilled-out place. That said, if youre looking for adventure you wont have to go looking for it. It will more or less hit you in the face. And while youre looking for excuses not to go zorbing, or rafting, or dangling in the air at the end of a piece of string, there is plenty to keep you occupied. Rotorua is a place you can smell before you arrive. You just have to walk through Kuirau Park in the centre of town to discover the source of the sulphur. Boiling water and mud literally bubbles out of the ground, in swamps, lakes, and sometimes car parks. If you worry about your child falling into the local duck pond, you might want to keep them closer to heel. First-degree burns from a fall in these ponds are likely. It is a mesmerising sight however. At every turn

The north island: the poor relation?

New Zealand part 1:

When investigating where to go on a three week trip to New Zealand, without exception, people said: Head to the south island. Dont spend much time in the north.

Words + Photos By: Helen McClure

steam rises from the ground.If youve exhausted yourself with outdoor

pursuits, Napier is a good place to head to for from R&R, after all, its the home of wine. The vineyards are the main draw of the Hawkes Bay area, and coincidentally it is the birthplace of New Zealand wine after French missionaries settled here in 1851, now the Mission Estate.

Wellington, the capital, was our last port of call on the north island, as we boarded a ferry heading south. The south island was going to have to be pretty special if it was going to live up to its reputation and beat the sights of the north. What was in store?

The practical bit:There are plenty of free guides and maps to pick up enroute to help you plan your route and accommodation. Look out for informa-tion from Jasons.co.nz and the AA (Automo-bile Association, aatravel.co.nz).Info on the web: www.newzealand.com

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

Andermatt, Switzerland is a top outdoor destination with classy amenities

Looking at Europe, most outdoor hotspots offer comfortable and modern accommoda-tions suitable for all needs and budgets. Switzerland is certainly one of the top outdoor destinations in Europe for winter as well as summer despite its small size. Situated in central Europe between Germany, France and Italy, the country has a very diverse culture

Words By: Daniel Birkhofer

Photos Supplied By: GHM Hotels

Outdoor travel may involve living out of a backpack for days, without a proper shower or a shave, sleeping in small tents or on the cold, hard ground. This romantic idea of independence, flexibility and adventure does apply, but not always.

with four spoken languages. Switzerland is synonymous for picturesque mountain scenery in the Alps. What really separates Switzerland from other destinations in the world that have mountains higher than 4,000m is its infrastruc-ture and the well-established and organised services offered through all layers of the tourism industry. For decades, Switzerland is known for its elegant ski destinations like St Moritz, Zermatt, Gstaad and Verbier attracting the rich and famous around the globe.

Andermatt is the rising star on this list of exclusive Swiss outdoor destinations. What separates it from all the others is that Ander-matt is undergoing a full makeover, which we have seen here in the Middle East, but this scale of rebuilding and changing the face of a

Five-star outdoor travel+


region is rare in Europe; and certainly unique in Switzerland. Before, Andermatt was an army base limiting tourism for a long time which therefore preserved a huge part of the valley to build an outdoor playground and top notch accommodations. Environmentally friendly materials and sustainability are also top priori-ties of the development which will consist after completion of six four and five-star hotels, 490 spacious apartments in 42 buildings as well as about 25 bespoke chalets. Unlike master developments in the Middle East, where you start from virgin land, Andermatt had to blend in the culture and heritage of the village as an important trade route dating back hundreds of years. Andermatt Swiss Alps is affiliated with the Orascom Development Holding AG which is also known for their projects in the UAE as well as in Oman, Egypt and on the Adriatic Sea.

The five-star deluxe hotel, The Chedi Ander-matt, run by GHM Hotels opened its doors in December 2013 as the flagship hotel of the resort. The 104 units offer the latest state-of-the-art amenities, like if you wanted to start your fireplace with a tablet PC, you can do it in The Chedi Andermatt. Actually you can control almost everything in your room with the tablet computer which acts as a remote. This modern innovation fits well with the modern interior design that incorporates a twist of the Swiss mountain chalet with lots of wood, natural materials and some Asian influence. After a long day of skiing, hiking, golfing, climbing or just sightseeing, you can unwind in your room and take a bath with mountain view. For a relaxing massage after an active day out, the hotel offers an exclusive spa on a vast area of 2,400sqm. The 35m covered indoor pool as well as the 12m heated outdoor pool invite you for a swim all year round no matter of the temperature and weather. The hotel has a lot to offer, even some unique features like their own cheese cellar, wine and cigar library. If you visit the main restaurant you might see a familiar face since the current Executive Chef Mansour Memarian worked at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai before.

As an outdoor enthusiast, staying at The Chedi Andermatt will test your commitment

to go out and be active or just give into the temptation and stay inside to enjoy the royal treatment. But if you do choose to go out, you will not miss a thing because even a ski butler is at your service here. Switzerland ranks in the worlds top ten with regards to the per capita income and high standard of living, so staying at The Chedi Andermatt does not come cheap and room prices start 4,000 AED per night.

Switzerland is a year round travel destina-tion especially for mountain and winter sports. Andermatt offers a diverse

Documents

#41 February 2014