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Your top guide to the best of oman, everY week

Sporty SophiSticate

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MAY 01 - 07 / ISSUE 318 • WEEKLY

32 29 46

BUSINESS: The Middleman DESTINATION: Hubra

Beauty: Work out for your face 34

FoodFashion Car

YUMMY MUMMY / WADI WONDER / CELEBRATING AFRICA / TOKYO TARO / DR LIISA / WONUTS ARE HERE

Travel Special SUmmer GetawayS with the KidS

Why Oman is being cured abrOad MEDICAL TO

URIST

S

Free!EVERY THURSDAY

NOW AVAILABLE IN BARKA ALL THE WAY TO SOHAR

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 3

Y Magazine is published by SABCO Press, Publishing &

Advertising LLC /Y is a SABCO Media product.

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

enquiries, please email info@y-oman.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine -

your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has

to offer.

EDITOR IN CHIEFSayyida Iman bint Hamad

bin Hamood Al Busaidi

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Eihab Abutaha

MANAGING EDITORPenny Fray

SECTIONS EDITORKate Ginn

CONTRIBUTORTom Robertson

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki

ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Feroz Khan

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

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

,

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

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

Ways to get your Y fix

Fast forwardHealth is not something we want to gamble with. It’s precious and we only get

one body. We’d do anything to protect it, it seems. Even if that includes jetting halfway around the world in search of specialised treatment that can’t be found at home – or not at an affordable price. So dive into our main feature

on medical tourism where we explore the pros and cons of the growing industry - and whether the costs may be far higher than you bargained for.

But we then swap the cannula for the canine, as we go dog training with wild desert hound Trop – what could possibly go wrong?

Plus there are some fantastic holiday suggestions in our Travel Special for getaway ideas with the kids, whether you’re a family with young tots or parents looking for some precious time away on your own.

There’s also business tips, an introduction to Yotox (yes, we didn’t know what it was either) and all your usual favourites. Enjoy.

TEAM Y editor@y-oman.comWe’ve welcomed back our intern,

Shishira, after her trip to India. But more importantly (sorry Shishira),

we’ve been racking our brains trying to figure out why there seems to be a nationwide shortage of our favourite

office snack, Maz Maz.

THIS WEEK…

FareweLL

the BarometerGoinG up

KNOCK-OFFS That’s

according to the Public

Authority for Consumer Protection

(PACP), who’ve

confiscated a whopping

2,000 per cent more counterfeit products last year compared to 2012. Going cheap

doesn’t always pay.

GoinG DoWnCLOONEY INCURABLES

Global heartthrob George Clooney has taken himself off the market, dashing

hopes of smitten fans everywhere. News broke earlier this week that

the Hollywood A-lister has become engaged to Lebanese human rights

lawyer Amal Alamuddin.

To a little Desert Dog, Trop, who’s graced our Destination pages for

five years with his master, Y’s photographer, Jerzy. 12-year-old Trop is a veteran explorer of the Sultanate and has made over seven trips to the Empty Quarter. But approaching old

age forces the Dachshund back to the more temperate climes of his native

Poland. Dawg, we’ll miss you. See Trop training on page 40.

contentsM A Y 0 1 2 0 1 4

yo u r o m a n06 the Big interview Dr Liisa Laakso

08 Voice of oman Karima Farid

10 news Marriage Money

Fo o d a n d d r i n k28 food The Wonut

30 food review Tokyo Taro

t h i s w e e k14 Gallery South Africa Freedom Day

16 oman in 43 objects Wadi 17 Movie Listings The Amazing Spider- Man 2

18 this Week Stars Of The Sea

c a r s a n d o u t d o o r37 Destination Hubra

40 outdoors Trop Dog

42 postcard from Glasgow

44 y-fi We’re All Going On A Summer Holiday

46 car of the Week Ford Fusion

28

protectinG our heritaGe / on the roaD to rio / cookinG up a StorM / fLyinG oBjectS / GoinG neutraL / off to BerLin / MaSerati

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE

44

24

h e a l t h & B e a u t y32 fashion Sporty Chic

34 Beauty Yotox

18

B u s i n e s s & c a r e e r 26 Success in the city The Middleman13

Fe at u r e s20 Medical tourism Health At A Cost

24 travel Special Get The Bucket And Spade Ready

34

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 6

Tell us about your education and career:I am a country girl, having grown up in Alahärmä, Finland. I went to university to study medicine in Tampere, Finland. I remember that I saw my first official patient as an independent doctor on the January 1, 1984, so I’ve been practicing for over 30 years. I started out as a GP, although I felt like there was a certain lack of public appreciation for the field. Ophthalmology was a natural choice because I like paying attention to detail, and I have always loved the sound of tiny instruments. How did you end up in Oman? While I was completely settled in Finland, working as a private practitioner in a refractive surgery clinic with no intention of moving, I happened to come across an advertisement looking for specialists for Arab countries. I ripped the ad out and stuck it on the fridge with a magnet. A year later, I came across the advertisement again, and this time around I asked my husband if I should call them and he said “Yes.” The rest was up to fate.

Three months after calling the company, I visited Muscat and on June 6, 2000, we moved to this boiling hot city. I cried every day for six months, regretting my decision to move here. Slowly but surely, Oman has now become our second home. Tell us about your practice, Finland Eye Center: Finland Eye Center is a world-class private eye clinic that operates in Muscat, Salalah and Sohar. Last year we opened a state-of-the-art operating theatre, which offers a full range of eye surgeries, from cornea to retina. We are a multicultural organisation with staff members from up to a dozen countries. What are some common eye problems you see in Oman?Personally, what I have noticed to be common in Oman in comparison to Europe are glaucoma, trachoma-related scarring and Keratoconus. The other problem that I have seen in Oman is cataracts, which are often left too late and should receive the appropriate

treatment earlier. Diabetes is a problem in ophthalmology too, because when left untreated, it is a blinding disease. People need to start making lifestyle changes. Why did you choose to open a business in Muscat and what are some of the challenges you have faced? A colleague and I thought we had something special to offer and we wanted to do it in our own way to try and make a difference. I have been blessed to have a sponsor, colleagues and staff who are like family to me. With their help we have been

able to overcome the various bureaucracy

faced when setting up a business. We shared the grief of Cyclone Gonu in June 2007,

which was three months after opening

our beautiful centre. It was totally submerged in

water and it took us six months to get back up on our feet, but we have come back stronger than ever.What is your business and working philosophy? I treat my patients as if they

were my family. I believe in honesty, respect and professionalism. What general advice do you give patients? Have your eye pressure checked, especially if glaucoma runs in your family. Remember that untreated diabetes can be blinding - get regular check-ups. Also, keep yourself and your eyes hydrated.What do you love most about your job? When I am in the operating theatre, it is just like meditation for me. I genuinely love my work my patients and our great staff.Describe yourself in three words: Hard-working, honest and optimistic.What do you do to relax? I spend time with my family and cats. On the weekends I like to swim and take long walks on the beach with my two daughters. I always look forward to spending the summer holidays in our summer cottage in Finland to enjoy that ‘back to the forest’ feeling. I am also a fanatic of American Idol and X-Factor.

YOUR OMAN

D R L i i S A L A A k S o , S E N I O R C O N S U LTA N T O p H T H A L M I C S U R G E O N A N D M E D I C A L D I R E C T O R O F F I N L A N D E Y E C E N T E R

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

Liisa’s three tips for Good

eye Care:1. Come2. see3. Me

eye to

eye

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 8

hiDDen DanGerS?

the voice of oman karima farid on the trials of modern motherhood

NExT WEEK: SHuENA Al MAYAHI

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

WRiTE To US AND WiN A VoUCHER

Dear Y, Of course we all love our mobile phones and communication on-the-go has never been easier. Most of us also have Wi-Fi enabled computers. But have we stopped to think about the health effects of all this wireless technology? Now, installing masts just about anywhere seems to be acceptable. In my opinion, children are being exposed to this insidious form of pollution, known as ‘electro smog’. And it’s all the more dangerous because we cannot feel or see it immediately but it can allegedly seriously damage the health of the young.

‘Experts’ with vested interests today will tell us there are no harmful effects from this form of radiation. I am a sceptic and

think it’s time we all woke up to the potentially damaging effects to

ourselves and our children. It may be too soon to make a

proper scientific judgment on the long-term effects of continued exposure to electromagnetic radiation but the signs are there. It’s high time for people

to be made aware of the possible dangers they are

exposed to. I urge those in authority to locate such masts at

a safe distance from humans. Yours sincerely,Mrs Una Huibers, Muscat

Do you have any idea what it means to be a mother and to work full-time? I’m sure many

of you do. But for those who don’t, let me give you a little taste of it, through the eyes of someone in that position. It’s the dawn of a new day, but not for Mummy X. Because she’s already been up since 4am; her baby is teething. Mummyy X’s daily drive is between 30 and 45 minutes, and even up to an hour. Her life is now one of strict time calculations. When she gets to the babysitter’s, the trusted nanny could, at times, be away, ill or ‘can’t do it today’. And so begins the trail of phone calls to find a replacement while the baby screams in the car seat. This poor mummy is on the phone, parked and now also trying to make a bottle for her little baby. Suddenly, out of utter frustration, she spills the hot water in the car, which leaves no milk for the baby. You can imagine the situation. A different scenario is that Mummy X has just dropped off the baby and is now preparing for a career-defining meeting. But suddenly, the crèche calls and tells her that her baby has fallen and hit its head. You can imagine what happens next. Bye bye business meeting. These are scenarios that happen every day and could happen to any of us. If we really appreciate women, and value their role in society, let’s make it a little bit easier for them. Not by asking for the deserved maternity leave - that should be a given - but an in-house nursery for every company in Oman, so mothers can live more peaceful and less stressful lives.

Dear Y Magazine,

Thank you for your article in Issue 316 on mountain biking (On Your Bike – Outdoors).

Muscat needs this kind of information to give people the confidence to get out and ride bikes more.

With regards, Randall, Group co-ordinator,Muscat Cycling Community (Road and Mountain)

BriLLiant BikeS

Dinner for two at Le Jardin restaurant

/GoldenTulipSeebHotel

@GoldenTulipSeeb

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 9

We asked: ‘You’re having a dinner party and can invite three famous guests from any time in history. Who would you like to see round your table and why?’

SAM BAY   Albert Einstein, the scientist without whom I would have no have electricity to write this message. Also Bill Gates, as I want to know how he achieved his empire and Mother Teresa, as I’m touched by the social services she provided.

ANNuu SINGH   I would love to invite Charlie Chaplin, Mahatma Gandhi and Neil Armstrong. Chaplin had a great sense of humour, Gandhi because there is so much to learn from him, but he always said ‘Simple living, high thinking’ and Neil Armstrong because of his brilliant knowledge.

BRYN WIllIAMS I’d invite Usain Bolt to ask him how to run fast. I’d also like to invite Fernando Alonso because I’d love to talk to him about Formula One and his brilliant driving. Lastly, I’d choose guitarist Slash from Guns ‘n’ Roses so he could give us an after-dinner rock concert.

SHERWIN AlEJANDRO I would invite Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Sir Tim Berners-Lee as the inventor of the World Wide Web and Bill Gates because they are part of our modern lives.

lORElIE VICO I would rather invite three homeless people instead of three famous people.

SuNIl D’CRuz Nelson Mandela for his indomitable spirit, Mother Teresa for her selfless service to humanity and Sir Tim Berners-Lee for giving us the World Wide Web.

TAGGART DAVIS I’d like to meet Jacques Cousteau because of his amazing filmmaking and conservation work for the sea. I’d

DeBate of the Week

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

also want Kelly Slater there as one of the greatest surfers that’s ever lived. Also Barack Obama because I want to know why he thought his healthcare plan was such a good idea.

RODNEY WOODS Penny Fray and Kate Ginn because Y is my favourite magazine in Oman and I never miss picking up a copy. Chris Fisher from Merge 104.8 would be my third guest because my days start with him every morning.

GEMMA lEWIS Henry VIII to talk to him about his marriages and because it’s said he certainly appreciated his food. I’d also invite George Bush Jnr. to see how on earth he got to be president and finally Leonardo Da Vinci, just so we could talk about all the inventions that he thought of that are actually used these days.

MERzIA VAJID Ever since I was in school, I have

JoShUa mariN FraNciS (10) & Faith LawreNce (9), were spotted with Y Magazine at the park in Quriyat Dam

been fascinated with the history of the separation between Pakistan and India. So, I would love to invite Mahatma Gandhi, Lord Mountbatten and Muhammad Ali Jinnah. I’d discuss with them what happened during that period and what their thoughts were at the time of separation.

HARSH lARA I would invite Steve Jobs, because talking to him and knowing his views on life would be an opportunity that could not be missed. Then Sir Isaac Newton, to see his reaction when Jobs tells him about iPhones and iPads. Lastly Michael Jackson, to puzzle Newton with his gravity-defying shoes and impress Jobs with his moonwalk.

AHMED Al-BADAI I would invite Prophet Muhammad, Jesus and Moses. Peace and blessings of Almighty Allah be upon them.

GREG lAW Has to be Buzz Aldrin, Neil

Armstrong and Michael Collins, their module controller. I want to know what was going through their minds when they first went to the moon. Amazing.

PRATIBHA lARA Mother Teresa, Florence Nightingale and Marie Curie.

New debate:You’re elected Ambassador

of Earth and have to go for a meeting with aliens to highlight the three best things about our planet.

What would you tell them? Tell us on Facebook or Twitter

and be in with a chance of winning dinner for two.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 1 0

N E W SYOUR OMAND rivers committing road offences could

find themselves facing tough prison sentences if plans by the Royal Oman police (ROP) are

implemented. Under stringent new measures,

repeat offenders will be subject to far more severe penalties, including stints in jail.

At the moment, motorists are handed fines for minor traffic violations, an approach which led to a reported 3,889,301 fines being dished out to motorists last year.

Drivers running red lights and speeding currently face financial penalties and are normally not considered for further prosecution.

But under the new plans, repeat offenders will be referred to the Public Prosecution and go to trial. If convicted, they may be handed a jail sentence and possibly have their car impounded, an ROP official reportedly confirmed.

The amendments to the Traffic Law come at a time when Oman is witnessing a reduction in the

number of road traffic accidents and the number of deaths, though it still has one of the worst records in the GCC.

In 2013, 913 people died on the roads compared to 1,139 registered fatalities in 2012. These were a result of 8,209 road traffic accidents in 2012 while in 2013 that number had fallen to 7,829.

The new amendments also plan to tackle the dangerous use of mobile phones on the Sultanate’s roads. Using a mobile phone while driving has a set RO35 fine at present.

But under the new plans, those convicted of causing an accident while using a phone will be forwarded to the court, according to reports.

Motorists overtaking while driving on the hard shoulder and those who cross yellow lines will also be forwarded to the Public Prosecution for potential conviction.

And that’s not all. It’s also been reported that offenders may face up to 48 hours in custody for driving at over 180kmph.

Repeat Road offendeRs face jail

The National Museum of Oman, said to be worth nearly RO9.62 million, is gearing up to open to the public by the last quarter of this year. The museum will display the Sultanate’s history through more than 7000 objects spread over a 4000 square metre area. ACCIONA Producciones y Diseño, the Spanish company in charge of the contract, said that the museum will have 12 galleries exhibiting Oman’s heritage. Furthermore, a gallery for temporary exhibitions, a visitable warehouse and a classroom for children will also be included in the construction.The massive museum will also consist of numerous interactive and audiovisual parts to enhance the experience. One such concept, ‘Oman in History’ is a video

shot by the firm to be displayed in ultra high definition in the museum theatre. According to His Highness Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, the Minister of Heritage and Culture and the Chairman of the Board of the National Museum, the vision behind the National Museum was global outreach and providing leadership and guidance to the museum industry in Oman.The museum will also provide access to those visually and physically challenged, a first of its kind in the Middle East.

histoRy lesson

More young Omanis planning to tie the knot will receive financial aid if a report is approved this month.

The recommendation to decrease the salary threshold for eligible applicants comes at a time when young people in Oman are facing huge expenditures when it comes to getting married.

Not only are there the costs of increasingly lavish wedding parties, but there’s also a pressure on young men to produce a substantial dowry. The payment is said to range anywhere from RO2,000 to RO30,000.

A marriage fund already exists to support those earning less than RO600 each month. But if the new report is approved later this month, that threshold figure will rise to RO800. It’s a change that will make the marriage fund applicable to a further 2,500 to 3,000 Omanis every year.

Both private sector and public sector employees are eligible to apply for the financial aid though applicants have to be over 20 years of age and also willing to undergo a pre-marriage test.

While banks have recently announced measures to provide financial loans to young Omanis needing help with matrimony, the marriage fund will offer successful applicants grants of RO4,000, not loans that need to be repaid.

And in order to make the finance more open and accessible, Mohammed al Busaidi, a member of the Bawshar Majlis

Al Shura, has reportedly confirmed that branches of the marriage fund are expected to be opened in all governorates.

The proposal has been tabled at a time when more and more Omani youngsters are looking to marry.

According to data released by the National Center for Statistics and Information in March, the last few years have witnessed a significant rise in marriages. From 2009 to 2012, the number of Omanis marrying jumped by 20 per cent.

MaRRiage Money

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 1 2

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

Don’t you mean Sultan Qaboos University? No, we mean Muscat University. It’s a new educational institution that’s been developed by a group of ‘prominent’ businessmen and an Oxford University company.Oxford University? Ooh, that sounds prestigious. Well, not exactly Oxford University, but a company it owns. For example, in the same way that Volkswagen owns Skoda, Oxford University owns Isis Innovation, which is responsible for consulting on the project.Who are Isis Innovation?They’re Oxford University’s technology transfer company. Excuse me, a what? Put simply, they focus on protecting and marketing researchers’ technologies. They also make patent applications as well as managing academics in a consulting role.They sound very business orientated?Yes, they are. But then making money is good. So this will be a profitable match? Er, no. Muscat University will apparently be a not-for-profit venture. The vision is to “directly contribute to the development of an entrepreneurial culture in Oman.”Does Muscat actually need another university though?Well not exactly but there’s always room for more colleges of knowledge.Fair point. So when will this Muscat University be up and running then? Put down those pens and hold off your application forms just yet. No site for the university has been named and they say they won’t have staff and facilities in place until 2016. The campus is going to take three years to construct.If it takes three years to construct, where will the class of 2016 study?Hmm, good spot. By those calculations, the university won’t actually be ready until 2017 at earliest. However, they say that 2016 will be a ‘foundation year.’ Perhaps they actually mean ‘foundation stone’ year in which the students are responsible for building their own classrooms.Do say: Professor, I’ve invented a new useful technologyDon’t say: Excellent young man. I’ll be filing the patent for that.

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

Egyptian court sentences Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohammed Badie and 682 others to death

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

Panic in Saudi as 17 more cases of MERS virus brings total death toll in country to 94

Al Nahda crowned champions of the inaugural Omantel Professional League (OPL)

Dogs really do love their owners it was revealed after scientists found canines release same ‘bonding’ hormone as humans

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

LOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE OF THE WEEK.

MUScaT UNIvERSITY

We all knew it was going to become hotter over this period but a sudden rise in humidity has left the Sultanate’s residents

getting more than a little sweaty.Changing weather and rising levels of humidity

has pushed up the heat index to around 40-45 degrees Celsius in some parts of Oman.

The heat index is a measurement developed in 1978 by George Winterling, a US meteorologist, which attempts to combine readings of

temperature and relative humidity. This combination then gives a figure that reveals how hot it feels to humans.

Meteorologists from the Directorate General of Meteorology and Air Navigation (DGMAN) have reportedly pointed to the fact that an easterly wind has caused higher humidity levels, varying between 55 and 85 per cent.

So while we’ve all been feeling an intense humidity over the last few days, you may be surprised to know that the temperature in some parts has actually been lower for the season compared to previous years.

High humidity levels can feel uncomfortable because of the skin’s inability to get rid of sweat in humid conditions, according to one doctor in Ruwi.

He pointed to the fact that it’s an unwinnable situation for the body. The heat makes us sweat

more but air saturated with moisture doesn’t allow the sweat to dry.

But far from simply adding to discomfort, being subjected to an increased heat index and higher moisture levels in the air can make you sick.

Doctors in Muscat have reportedly highlighted a raft of health problems from the humid weather including heartburn and hyper-acidity. If that wasn’t enought, add an increase in skin problems such as rashes to the list of symptoms.

humidity highs

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 1 3

Junior JKsIt was a veritable literary feast for youngsters at the Big Book Day

held recently at the Al Qurum complex. With water the central theme of the annual event, a whole host

of fun activities awaited those attending, including a water quiz, and the opportunity to make ‘save water’ posters.

Also on the packed agenda was a presentation ceremony to dish out prizes to winners (see below) of the Let’s Read Children’s Writing Competition 2014. But competition was tough with more than 35 schools taking part.

Plenty of writing talent was on hand to provide inspiration for the aspiring young authors and JK Rowling wannabes. Three authors, Sami Jaffer, Ty Frederiksen and Jenni Eden, were also present to talk to the children.

1st Prize (7-10 yrs) - Kirsten Willemse, home schooled

1st Prize (11-13 yrs) - Tara ali, aBa

1st Prize (14-16 yrs) – Ishani Sen, ISG

1st Prize (17-18 yrs) - Ahmed Abdullah al Jehafi, Sarab School, Wusta

OTC’s series of “How to Cook at Home” Classes

Starting in May and June

Omani Cuisine

Course is on four Monday mornings starting from 2nd of June, 9th of June, 16th of June and 23rd of June,2014.

Class is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 80 OMR per person

All those involved in the courses get to prepare, cook and enjoy a well-earned lunch or dinner.

Lebanese Cuisine

Class A is on four Tuesday evenings starting from 20th of May,

27th of May, 3rd of June and 10th of June,2014. Class is from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 80 OMR per person

Class B is on four Thursday morning starting on 22nd of May, 29th of May, 5th of June and 12th of June, 2014.

Class is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 80 OMR per person.

All those involved in the courses get to prepare, cook and enjoy a well-earned lunch or dinner.

For more information please contact: jaana.raisanen@otc.edu.om, 97628670 or

Short Courses Department scd@otc.edu.om, Tel: (+968) 24512312, 24512313.

Oman Tourism College is located next to the Golden Tulip Hotel in Seeb.

/OmanTourismCollegeOfficialPage

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 1 40 1 4

S O U T H A F R I C A F R E E D O M D AYCELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF

LIBERTY IN AN EvENT AT THE

GRAND HYATT MUSCAT HOTEL

YOUR OMAN

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 1 6

OMAN IN 43 OBJECTS

W hether barren, a fertile green oasis or valley filled with cool, blue water, the wadi can offer many unique

environments. In essence, a wadi is a dried-up riverbed. People have lived in wadis in Oman for thousands of years. When rain comes, the once dusty, dry surface very quickly turns into a dangerous, churning mass of brown water moving at a rapid pace. Sadly, many lives have been lost in wadis over the years, swept away by the fast-flowing currents. Wadis remain, however, some of the most beautiful spots in the Sultanate, one of which is said to be Wadi Al Arbaeen. This stunning valley was captured by Y reader Bernard O’Neill. His wife, Jacqui, has written a poem, 'Wadi Gorgeous', to accompany it

Ancient fossil'd watchersIn naked awesome displayEyeless giants dressed inRich barren folds ofCopper and gold patterned huesAubergine tinges and green plateaued bands

Ancient fossil'd watchersDid I see dragons there?A foot, a claw?Guardians of all timeWhat if you should awake?Slumber deeply we care not for that reply

Ancient fossil'd watchersCarefully covering obsolete pathsSkeleton findings scatteredThroughout your rainbow rockSuch wonderment liesLayered and layered, entombed within

Ancient fossil'd watchersCan you feel us watching you?Over time we have visited andSome of us have struggledOn your desolate savage ground, not alwaysAble to honour the gorgeousness of your surrounds

WADI23.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 1 7

TRACKSThe incredible real-life story of Robyn Davidson, a woman who walked across the Australian desert from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean – that’s 2,735km – with only camels and a dog for company. Mia Wasikowska is superb as the intrepid adventurer battling nature, loneliness and her demons, while Rolley Mintuma plays the aboriginal elder Mr Eddy who guides her through sacred ground. Photographer Adam Driver documents her progress and falls in love.

Bollywatch

captain america 2: the winter Soldier

Captain America represents the best of how the nation likes to see itself – but in this superior Avengers outing, Chris Evans' all-American hero comes face-to-face with the darker side of the security state.When Capatain America's boss, Nick Fury, is apparently killed by the titular Winter Soldier – an assassin with a metal arm – Captain America is blamed and has to go on the run. Together with Scarlett Johansson, they discover a sinister plot within Shield to impose world tyranny. There are unmistakable shades of the Edward Snowden

the amazing spider-Man 2

MOVIES MOVIESaffair and an intelligent script turning this material into compelling entertainment of a higher order than usual.

V/h/S/2

Four, short found-footage films are wrapped up in a familiar plot about two private investigators who discover some scary VHS tapes in a house, which they duly watch. Shaky hand-held cameras and bad lighting mean you can’t always make out what’s happening – but it’s bloody. A gore fest for hardcore horror fans only.

thanks for Sharing

Mark Ruffalo meets beautiful Gwyneth Paltrow and they start dating. Only problem is he’s a sex addict in recovery, attending 12-step classes each week to cure his habit. Fellow addicts Josh Gad and Pink make a fine supporting cast in this amusing but surprisingly safe comedy.

2 StateS A culture clash comedy about two middle class Indian students, one Punjabi (Arjun Kapoor) and the other Tamil (Alia Bhatt) who fall for one another at college. All goes well until they decide to get married and have to overcome the prejudices of their closed-minded in-laws. A fluffy and funny adaptation of Chetan Bhagat’s best-selling novel.

Nothing eats up box office gold like a Marvel opening. The first Spider-Man managed $50 million (RO19 million), Dark Knight reeled in $150 million (RO57 million) and Avengers bust the jackpot with $200 million (RO77 million). But besides peeps on seats, how do you keep it fresh with a new comic book movie out nearly every week?Amazing Spider-Man 2 sticks to the formula. Our hero (Andrew Garfield) is out rescuing people in the neighbourhood when he happens to save super-nerd Max (Jamie Foxx) who is also Spidey’s biggest fan. He’s a genius inventor with a bad haircut who wants some glory himself, then falls into a tank of eels to become super- villain Electro. A lot of backstory slows the movie

down, with Spider-Man’s dad and various villains, including the Green Goblin, introduced in the process of becoming bad. The teen romance with Emma Stone ticks along nicely including a threatened break-up, while Spidey’s interactions with Aunt May back home offer much-needed emotional and comic moments.However the plot and special effects are not especially memorable and the whole thing feels like a prequel to the next film, except for the final showdown between Spidey and Electro in a blacked-out city. Too often we can feel the corporate sequel strategy at work here, when what we want is good old-fashioned storytelling.

Review by Joe Gill

Y’S

CHoi

CE

For more information and times, go to:

city cinema: citycinemaoman.net

al Bahja cinema: albahjacinema.net

Star cinema: Tel +968 24791641

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M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 1 8

pEAK ExpERIENCE T H E W H AT ’ S O N G U I D E

ever dreamt of making a life-changing decision and starting over in another hemisphere? Migration consultancy services will be holding a free seminar on skilled migration to australia and new Zealand at the o.c centre, Ruwi. the session will offer advice on making the move to oz or the land of the all Blacks. admission is strictly with prior booking owing to limited seating. 6.30pm. for bookings contact 24700011 or muscat@migratevision.com

THIS WEEKM A Y

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE.

WHAT TO HEAR.

Escape the heat by heading to the mountains with The Guide Oman. Join the crew for a night in Bani Jabir at 2,000m above sea level. Enjoy lunch with a local family as well as a trip to Majalis al Jinn Cave and the Beehive Tombs. (The same trip will also take place on June 6-7). For further details contact +968 98038820, +968 92285813 or visit www.facebook.com/TheGuideOman

Wizards of Oz

02

May

Barka BeatsPulse Audio is putting on the Farm Alarm Party 2014 in Barka. There’s lots to do with a cricket and football tournament and even some snooker action. Or, just sit by the pool listening to the likes of DJ MP and DJ Osh pumping out the tunes at Barka Farmhouse. Open to all age groups, 10am–6pm. Tickets RO10. For further information and reservations call + 968 91274568

03May

honour oman’s top sailors and the upcoming stars of the future at the sailor of the year awards, held at the al Bustan palace a Ritz carlton hotel. tables for ten people can be reserved at oMR400 per table. starts at 7.30pm. for bookings, contact +968 99855369 or james@omansail.com. further info: www.omansail.com

StarS oF the Sea 07

May

9-10May

IT’S BAZAAR

If you love shopping, you won’t want to miss this. For the first time in Oman, the renowned Meena Bazaar is setting up shop for a one-off fair for the whole family. Browse stalls for fashion, jewellery, accessories, gifts and food, showcasing home-based women entrepreneurs from around the world. Entry is free and the event is sponsored by NIVEA. Venue: Bahja Hall, The Jungle Restaurant next to Qurum Natural Park from 10am-10pm.

02MAY

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 1 9

Moon Song 08

May

Czech composer Antonín Dvořák’s opera Rusalka tells the tale of a young water nymph who falls for a human. Staged by the Janáček Opera of the National Theatre Brno, Czech Republic, this classic piece includes the famous Song to the Moon and is sure to come alive under conductor Jakub Klecker. 7pm, May 8 and May 10. Tickets from RO10-78. For tickets and further info: www.rochuscat.org.om

FISHY

TAILS

Handy with the rod and tackle? Show your mettle at the second annual Jebel Sifah Fishing Challenge when keen local anglers will be trying to bag the catch of the day. Organised under the supervision of Muscat Game Fishing Association, there will be two competitions; an International Game Fishing Association regulated event, requiring registration, and an open event. Both start from 7am onwards. Prizes include a two-night stay at Juweira Boutique Hotel at Salalah Beach, including flights. To register for the IGFA category contact lakey.richard@gmail.com. For details about the Open event email marko.randjelovic@muriya.om

10M

AY

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M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 2 0

HealthTrip

MEDICAL TOURISM IS ON THE RISE WITH THOUSANDS OF pATIENTS FROM OMAN HEADING OVERSEAS FOR TREATMENT. BUT COULD IT END Up BEING TOO HIGH A pRICE

TO pAY? KATE GINN REpORTS

Paralysed and with bleeding in the head, Zahran al Riyami needed urgent treatment to save his failing health and would, no doubt, have received good care at an Omani

hospital. Instead, however, the then 50-year-

old’s family decided to seek medical intervention abroad in India, paying all of the expenses out of their own pockets.

“He had been hospitalised for high blood pressure and sugar, and was paralysed down one side,” says his daughter.

“In Oman, we had been told to expect surgery. In India, though, the doctors just treated him with medicine and solved the problem.

“He stayed in hospital for three weeks there and we were very happy with the treatment he received.”

Should more significant treatment be required in the future, his daughter is adamant that they will return to Mumbai, rather than a hospital in Muscat.

“We believe the doctors are better there and so is the all round treatment and service,” she adds.

The al Riyami family is not alone.Medical tourism is a growing phenomenon, estimated to

be worth a massive $100 billion (RO38.5 billion) globally.And an increasing number of people from the Sultanate

are now travelling overseas for a cheaper and, some claim, better quality service.

In 2012 alone, more than 60,000 Omanis visited Thailand for a variety of medical treatments. This was expected to rise to an estimated 75,000 last year. Another 3,500 patients visited India in 2012.

Some, such as the al Riyamis, will be funding their own costs. Others are sponsored by the Ministry of Health, which, through its Treatment Abroad Department, sends

patients overseas to places such as the U.K, Germany and Saudi Arabia if appropriate treatment or services required are not available in Oman.

Sending patients abroad is a drain on the country’s budget. In 2010, the Ministry

of Health spent RO1,693,825 rials on treatment abroad. And while later figures are not available, it is certain to have risen in line with the general increase in

medical tourism.According to some analysts, Omani patients go abroad

due to long waiting lists for surgical or other procedures at the Sultanate’s public hospitals. Why wait, when you can pop to Bangkok or one of the other leading medical tourism destinations and be in and out before your name is anywhere near the top of the list back in Oman?

All for a fraction of the cost the treatment in an Omani private hospital might well cost. Cardiac surgery, for instance, is priced from as little as RO3,800 in India.

Cancer care, plastic surgery and orthopedics are some of the most popular treatments undertaken overseas, along with infertility and marrow, kidney and liver transplants.

Moza Nasser al Waili, an Omani patient with carcinoma (skin cancer), was treated at a hospital in New Delhi, on the wishes of her son. After a month of success treatment, she was back home.

It all cost just RO5,000.“The treatment went well. Her health has improved a

lot,” her son said shortly after the treatment.There is, however, another side to medical tourism that

the glossy brochures don’t show. Reports and anecdotal evidence of overcharging or unnecessary treatment are not uncommon.

“I have personally come across many patients who have gone for treatment abroad and have spent quite a bit of

money and were treated for conditions that do not even exist,” one doctor in Muscat tells Y.

Patients can also find the cost will be more than just rials. When the treatment goes wrong abroad far from home or problems occur back in Oman afterwards, their health can be on the line.

“I remember the story of a patient who went to Thailand for the treatment of a chronic infection and unfortunately developed many complications,” says the doctor.

“He had to be admitted to an Intensive Care Unit for about three weeks and the medical bill ran into thousands of rials.”

It’s certainly not an isolated case.“It is a very common occurrence in Oman that people go

abroad for treatment and then return and frantically search for a doctor to go to for a follow-up,” adds the doctor, who did not wish to be named.

“It is difficult for physicians here because they have little knowledge about the details of the treatment the patients received abroad.”

He is not the only one to warn about the hidden human costs of medical tourism. Professor Lamk al Lamki, of the College of Medicine and Health Services at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), has carried out studies at length on medical tourists in Oman.

“Medical tourism has some benefits, but there are more problems with it,” he says.

“We need more statistics, better studies and better reporting systems. The question of who will look after these patients when they return, has not been answered but must be tackled.”

Some patents are motivated to go abroad because “sometimes locally available treatment is not trusted by patients,” he adds.

In a 2011 study by the SQU Medical Journal - of which Professor al Lamki is the editor - looking at Omani patients who went abroad, 15 per cent of patients surveyed (45 in total) had suffered some complications.

One third had also paid more than RO2,000 for their treatment, debunking somewhat the myth going abroad is always cheaper.

“The cost of medical care in Oman is the lowest of all GCC countries,” says Dr Askar Kukkadi, Senior Consultant Pediatrician & CEO at Starcare Hospital in Muscat.

“Oman charges are not too different from what overseas patients get charged in some of the Indian hospitals.

“Having said this, we do not support the model of extreme low pricing for the sake

of large volume business.”His words are echoed by other medical staff, who want

to get the same message across: that treatment in the Sultanate can be as cost effective and as good a quality as abroad.

Of course, no one would blame a patient seeking treatment elsewhere for the sake of his or her health. Waiting lists for radiation treatment, for instance, are said to be very long in Oman. Any wait can be too long for

some, who simply don’t have time to spare.Those with money can switch from government hospitals to private. The lure of a promise of more affordable treatments abroad, possibly combined with a holiday, can be too good an offer to turn down.

Seeniya Biju, Chief Operating Officer at Aster DM Healthcare, which includes Al Raffah Hospital, says that patients must

do their homework before heading off overseas.Orthopedic treatment, for example, is now well advanced in the Sultanate

and there is often no need to travel abroad.Some patients fail to carry out proper research, leaving them at the mercy

of rogue or unlicensed health facilities with poor standards.“Sometimes Omanis don’t even know where they are going until they

reach the airport, where they start making telephone calls to try and find a hospital,” she says.

“Basic checks such as the procedure, the costs and whether the clinic or hospital is registered aren’t carried out.

“Ultimately, it can mean they end up spending more money than they would having it done here in Oman.”

Often, they have to deal with the consequences of this.“We have a lot of people coming to our hospital who have been to India,

for instance, and then have complications back home that we have to treat. It’s very sad that they are not informed more.”

The Aster group has two hospitals in India, which Omani patients can be referred to after a full consultation. This means that proper follow-up care is reassuringly waiting back home when the procedure or treatment is carried out.

Unsurprisingly, Oman wants a slice of the medical tourism pie too. Sprawling medical cities in both Salalah and, recently announced Muscat, hope to attract some of those nomadic medical tourists with money in their pockets.

For now, at least, the stream is going the other way, out of the country. The long-term diagnosis of the medical tourism industry in Oman remains unclear though.

As Professor al Lamki says: “Unless we have a good grip on the quality of the care that

our patients are receiving abroad, their safety may be at risk.”

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 2 1

Unless we have a good grip on the quality of the care that our patients are receiving

abroad, their safety may be at risk

0 2 2 M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8

TOP OF THE DOCScountRies aRound the woRld – fRoM asia to south aMeRica to easteRn euRope – aRe cashing in on the Medical touRisM BooM to captuRe a piece of the MaRket. Most of the Best hospitals oR clinics in these Medical touRist hot spots have highly tRained, english-speaking doctoRs.Y Magazine is looking for

a first-class sub-editor/writer with an eye for detail and a flair for the English language to keep us at the top as the most talked about weekly magazine in Oman. Dedicated and hard-working, the successful applicant will be prepared to work long and flexible hours, taking responsibility for ensuring that our copy is crisp, bright, accurate and engaging to read.You will have at least three years’ experience working as a sub-editor in magazines or newspapers with InDesign experience. Your primary role will be checking, rewriting and editing editorial copy to an exacting standard but you will also be expected to write news and lifestyle articles for the magazine as part of a small, tight-knit and creative editorial team.

If you are up to the challenge and the fun of working for the most sparkling English-language lifestyle magazine in the Middle East, send in your CV and cover letter to hireme@sabcomedia.com by May 27, 2014.

1 Singapore Its status as one of the world’s most open economies and a highly developed nation has made it a medical tourism hub.

Cancer treatment is a top speciality. The World Health Organisation ranks Singapore as having the

best healthcare system in Asia and sixth in the world. You’ll pay more than in places like Thailand but good quality costs. There are stories of excessive charges, but it’s better for less expensive surgery.

2 Brazil Offering the most advanced healthcare in the region, it is fast becoming a major player in the sector. The country is home to more cosmetic surgeons than anywhere else on earth, most notably

the legendary Ivo Pitanguy. Costs for plastic surgery can be as much as 60 per cent less than western countries.

3 India Positioning itself as a top destination for high-end surgeries at inexpensive prices, two of the top ten medical tourism hospitals are in India. Infertility treatment can cost up to 75 per cent less. Equipment

and services are advanced, and the doctors well-trained. Popular treatments include bone-marrow transplants, eye surgery and hip replacement. Cardiac bypass surgery can be done for as little as RO3,849 compared to RO38,490 in the West.

4 Thailand World-renowned for its medical tourism and expat healthcare, its share of the market is said to be growing by 16 per cent each year. A popular destination with GCC tourists, many make the

journey from Oman. It’s good for elective procedures and plastic surgery – a facelift can set you back as little as RO962.

5 Malaysia Over half a million medical tourists make their way to Malaysia each year to take advantage of low costs and good care. It’s cheaper than

Singapore, so tends to attract those with smaller budgets. Kuala Lumpur, the capital, is the main destination. Specialisms include fertility treatment (one fifth of the price of western hospitals) and treatment for burns victims.

* Ones to look out for: Jordan and Columbia

THE TOP FIvE:

2013 WOrlD’S BEST HOSPITalS FOr MEDICal TOurISM■ Prince Court Medical Center, Kuala lumpur, Malaysia■ asklepios Klinik Barmbek, Hamburg, Germany■ Clemenceau Medical Center, Beirut, lebanon■ Fortis Hospital, Bangalore, India■ Wooridul Spine Hospital, Seoul, South Korea■ Bumrungrad International, Bangkok, Thailand■ anadolu Medical Center, Istanbul, Turkey■ Bangkok Hospital Medical Center, Bangkok, Thailand■ Gleneagles Hospital, Singapore■ asian Heart Institute, Mumbai, India* Source: Medical Travel Quality Alliance

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 24

Words: Noor Hyder

Where to go: Bali, IndonesiaWhy: Loaded with baby-friendly resorts, Bali is the perfect holiday stop for your newborn. The weather is pleas-ant and your baby will love the cool water and temperatures. Average temperature in June is a balmy 27°C.

Mummy and Daddy, on the other hand, can take turns enjoying relaxing rounds of golf or a spa treatment. For a break from parenthood, take

advantage of babysitting services offered at many resorts, such as the Ayana Resort and Spa, and get some quality time together. AttrActions: The peace and quiet nature of Bali. Take time off domestic chores to get to know your baby and relax into par-enthood. The Ayana Resort and Spa boasts a variety of recreational activities for you and your other half, as well as a children’s pool for your little one to enjoy his or her first (chap-eroned) dip.

Flying time From muscAt: 11 hours (with one stopover. Break up the journey by making a stop for one or two days).Find out more: www.ayanaresort.comAlternAtive: Turkey. Very baby-friendly and temperate climate.

Where to go: Isles of Scilly, U.K.Why: Toddlers can, to some extent, entertain themselves. Their frightening independ-ence is the key to the terms ‘terrible twos’ and ‘turbulent threes’. The Scilly Isles are a clutch of small Islands off Great Britain. Tresco, the second largest, holds a bunch of stylish beach houses, where you can watch your little ones run around on the beach. Take

your tots for a walk on the car-free island’s coast. Summertime would be an ideal way to get some beach life without the scorching Middle Eastern heat. AttrActions: Bike routes for you and your husband, an indoor pool for when the water is cold and baby monitors in every cottage so you and your partner can enjoy a hot chocolate or something stronger on the balcony. Flying time From muscAt: 12 hours (Direct flight to London and then to the Isles of Scilly)Find out more: www.tresco.co.uk/staying-on-trescoAlternAtive: Sri Lanka. Beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe, all just a four-hour flight away.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 2 5

Where to go:

Disney World, Florida, USA

Why: This rite of passage holiday

is one your child will remember

forever. With four major theme

parks, you’ll never run out of ways

to entertain your energetic little

ones. The Magic Kingdom, where

they can rub shoulders with Mick-

ey, Minnie and Pluto, is a must for

children between the ages of five

and eight. Big kids will love it too.

Tickets can be ordered in advance.

With careful planning you can

cover a lot of the seven-themed

lands within the kingdom.

If you or your spouse can handle

manning the team with one leader, the

other can head off to one of the Disney

properties five golf courses for some much

needed recuperation.

AttrActions: Mickey Mouse, of course.

SeaWorld is also amazing with thrilling killer

whale shows and marine fun. Kids will love

the Epcot theme park, with its great activities and

games that are both interactive and educational –

such as the Journey into Imagination, which helps

children learn about the five senses and other cool

science facts.

Flying time From muscAt: 18 to 20 hours

(up to three different stops, including Abu Dhabi,

London and New York). Break up the journey with a

layover in London or New York.

Find out more: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/

AlternAtive: Thailand. Lovely beaches and

gorgeous child-friendly resorts with swimming pools.

They might still be too young to go on an elephant

safari but they will love feeding the gentle beasts and

getting up close to the biggest land mammals.

Where to go:

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Why: Now that your kids are old

enough to talk back or, if you’re lucky,

just completely ignore you, getting the

right getaway is crucial. Chances are

if they hate the holiday they will make

sure you do too. They probably can’t

imagine sitting on a beach and tanning

with you, so a safari trip is the best way

to get some family bonding time with

the added excitement of one of Mother

Nature’s best creations. The Serengeti

Bushtops is a brand new luxury tented

camp and could be the perfect

getaway for you and your

sulky offspring. Located in

the wild north of the Serengeti

National Park, this is definitely

glamping, not a rough and ready expedi-

tion. Featuring a hot tub and 24-hour

power, your sweet and sour 16-year-old won’t

complain that she’s unable to blow-dry her hair.

AttrActions: Between June and October

each year, the Great Migration makes its way

into the northern Serengeti and past the bor-

der into Kenya’s Masai Mara. You’ll have the

chance to view the beautiful Mara River where

hundreds of wildebeest assemble. Even the

toughest-to-please teenager won’t sneer at that.

Flying time From muscAt: Six to

eight hours Find out more: www.safari.co.uk/tanzania/

serengeti/serengeti-bushtops

AlternAtive: Australia. Surfing on Bon-

dai Beach and camping in the great outback?

No teenage strops or wailings of being

bored here.

Where to go: Seville, SpainWhy: We weren’t about to recom-mend Paris, which has become the epitome of romantic getaway. Instead we would turn you to Spain. While the Andalucían capital isn’t the first place one thinks of as a lovers’ paradise, the stunning architecture, delectable food and quiet atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop for parents to enjoy time together – and away from the little or bigger ones. Stay at the Hacienda De San Rafael, a stunning hotel nestled in the south western part of Andalucía. Striking gardens, shimmering pools and perfect hiking trails guarantee ultimate relaxation.AttrActions: No kids. Flying time From muscAt: 10 hoursFind out more: www.haciendadesanrafael.comwww.travelpoint.om AlternAtive: Maldives or Seychelles. Rediscover romance and each other in paradise. Wonderful food and sandy beaches.

Where to go: Zighy Bay, Oman Why: If a destination holiday isn’t on the cards for you this year, don’t fret. Sometimes the best can be found closer to home. To see another side of the country we all call home, go to Zighy Bay. Located in Musandam, around five-and-a-half hours drive from Muscat, the award-winning Six Senses Resort is pure luxury in every way. Dipping its toes in the Gulf of Oman, the family-friendly resort has a spa, spacious villas and activities for the kids.

AttrActions: The inviting Omani enclave tops the list of luxury, featuring an oasis built of natural stone, an infinity pool, ergonomic pillows and private outside areas to tan and enjoy the view. Flying time From muscAt: 1 hour Find out more: www.sixsenses.com/re-sorts/zighy-bay/accommodation/villas-and-suitesAlternAtive: Salalah. A one-hour flight away but like being in a different country. Go during Khareef season and the kids will love the cool temperatures, the chance to see rain and the lush greenery.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 2 6

BUSINESS

CAREER&

the NeGotiator Make yourself the

essential link between customer and producer,

and you could see your fortunes

rocket.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 2 7

WHat tHe eXPert saYs:

Challenges and Opportunities “It’s true that the Internet can sometimes cut out the middleman but it can also be an opportunity. For example, we offer an Amazon shipping service where customers can place their own orders and ship via us, which is very popular and economical. the Internet can also be good for individuals

purchasing single items but it is difficult for bulk purchasing because payment and transport may be complicated.” Maggie Jeans, al Manahil Books

In an age of enhanced international communications and online businesses, Tom Robertson asks if there’s still a need for the old-fashioned middleman

T r e n d N e t w o r k i n g M i n u t e M e n t o r i n g

Broker

By the age of 15, a young British boy, Londoner Dominic McVey, was a millionaire having started with virtually nothing. When he

was just 13, he spotted a scooter on the Internet that he wanted to buy from a company in America. Raising funds from organising school discos, he then bought five, which he sold to friends and family.

Soon after he bought another ten and then quickly won the distribution rights for the whole of Europe. “I saw these scooters and I thought, I should have one, in fact my friends should have them too,” says McVey. “Over the next two to three years, I sold eleven million of them. Things went crazy, they spread like wildfire.”

By 15, he had become one of the world’s youngest self-made millionaires. And all by positioning himself between the European customers and the American manufacturers. It’s no wonder that playing the ‘middleman’ is seen as a prime role in the word of business. But why exactly are they needed?

As long as there has been trade, there have been middlemen. While goods may be produced locally they’ve been exported globally, as Oman’s history attests to. As far back as 5000BC, traders in Dhofar were buying and exporting frankincense in return for spices from India.

The frankincense traders were, in fact, simply responding to the basic conditions of an international market that creates the demand for importers and exporters; products aren’t available locally, the goods are cheaper when sourced from other places, and some items have a higher value when sourced from specific locations, such as Russian caviar or Egyptian cotton.

But according to experts, the need for such in-betweeners is disappearing as enhanced digital communications between producer and purchaser closes the gap once occupied by the middleman.

When, for example, was the last time you used a travel agent to book a flight or holiday? Or how about the time you last walked into a record store? Online music distribution services such as iTunes and Spotify have essentially done away with the physical intermediary between us, the customer, and the record producers.

However, the web has also opened up new possibilities for enterpreneurs to bring together those with a service to offer and the customers who want to purchase it.

Scroll through the pages of AirBnB.com, and you’ll see a host of people offering a room direct to travellers, without any recourse to a bricks-and-mortar booking service. Charging a small commission for each booking made, AirBnB has become that intermediary.

Like so many online businesses, it’s the perfect business model for the founders, roommates Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia from San Francisco – low start-up costs, immediate feedback from users and ample advertising opportunities that connects individuals with fledgling wannabe catering businesses.

So do we still need that old-fashioned distributor, who’s sat in an office identifying potential manufacturers on one side of the world and pitching their products to markets on the other side of the world?

“Since time immemorial, companies and end buyers alike have been looking to cut out the resellers, or middle people, to save money and sell more. This is to be expected,” says Ira Kalb, a professor of marketing at the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California.

“What too many forget, however, is that if you cut out the middle people, you still have to provide their function. When you bypass them, you eliminate the benefits of their locations, marketing, and sales efforts.”

So what can middlemen do to avoid being cut out of the deal between customer and supplier in an increasingly interconnected business world?

“Own the customer,” says John Warrillow, author of Built to Sell: Creating a Business that Can Thrive Without You. “The most important thing distributors can do is to ensure the customer wants to buy from them, not the manufacturer. Your customers’ loyalty to you, not to the manufacturer, gives you leverage.”

Above all, says one local importer, make yourself the first choice, whether national or international. “The key to winning orders is to be competitive.” says Maggie Jeans, who own a Muscat-based company specialising in importing books.

“Much of our work is competitive tendering where the end user gathers a minimum of three quotations and the order is awarded to the lowest bid. Most of our competition comes from outside the Sultanate but we are the preferred supplier for most of the major international publishers so can usually offer the lowest prices.”

You’re travelling the world looking for the next big consumer craze to import but your suit is crumpled and your trolley bag is more junk than jet-set. Instead, look the bee’s knees when you’re collected from the airport with this Longchamps Veau Foulonné garment holder for both men and women. Made from small-grain supple leather, it’s both classy and durable. ro285

GoinG for

BUSINESS BUY

lOOKING TO BE THE NExT MIllIONAIRE MIDDlEMAN? ASK THE FOllOWING:❶ what products are in demand in the target market?➋ can a demand for your chosen product be created?➌ who manufactures the goods that you want to import or export?➍ can the products be sold at a price which would still give you a profit?➎ are there any competing products which would impact upon your sales and why would your offer be better?

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 2 8

FOOD

DRINKAND

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

moVe oVer croNUt! The croissant/doughnut mix is

so yesterday in the baking world. There’s a new hybrid in town to take the cake crown and it’s got an even more ridiculous name. Step forward the Wonut, a deep-fried waffle and doughnut, said to taste crunchy and sweet. Created in a Chicago bakery,

it’s reported to be selling like hot cakes. Coming to a café near

you sometime soon…

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 2 9

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

CLEVER CUISINE

You know you are in the presence of culinary greatness when the mere mention of their name has you salivating with sudden hunger.

Alfredo Russo is not the sort of chef who screams and shouts in his kitchen. There’s no hint of a fiery temper from the softly spoken Italian. He’s exceedingly courteous but the passion for cooking that ignites him clearly shines through.

His exquisite cuisine has diners in ecstasy. Which makes his presence in Oman, where gourmands can now sample the magic for themselves, even more exciting. Chef Alfredo will be serving his Michelin fare at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa until May 3.

This is his first time in Muscat, and when I ask him about his first impression of the city, he exclaims that it was “ ‘ot!” in his thick Italian accent.

“It’s nice for me because I am from Torino (Turin), which is close to the Alps, and yesterday when I left home it was very cold and rainy. I sent a message to home today telling them about how it was 35 degrees at night when I got here.”

Cooking came naturally for Alfredo, who started experimenting with food from the age of 13.

“My family is not a restaurant family, but I have an uncle who was a chef and I would see him work and that is where my passion started,” he tells me.

“This is a hard job, because the working day is very long.“At the age of 13, my parents said that I should go work in a restaurant.

The goal was actually to stop this idea of mine.” He laughs and goes on to say, “But it didn’t happen. I kept going and

studied at hotel school.”When called a famous chef, Alfredo Russo laughs and shrugs his shoulders

in a laid-back Italian manner. “I am not a chef. I am a cook!” His modesty is endearing, especially when you consider that the L’Espresso

Guide named him Best Young Chef in 2004.Joining Chef Alfredo and his team for an exceptional culinary journey

of taste, means getting to sample the delights of his subtle signature dishes, including pink wild salmon marinated with celery leaves, and apple tart with soft cream and Granny Smith apple juice.

“My food is a little different than what people expect of Italian food,” says Chef.

“For me it’s very important that I try to extract from the ingredients I use, to try and get the maximum flavour. I want people to recognise what they are eating.”

His other trademark method is to use a maximum of three ingredients, sometimes just two, for one dish.

In the late nineties, Chef Alfredo opened his own restaurant, Dolce Stil Novo, in his home city.

I imagine every meal in the Russo household must be a seven-course lavish affair. Chef Alfredo bursts out laughing.

“It’s exactly the opposite! My wife works in a restaurant too, so when we are at home, we like to relax. The food is very simple, very comfortable. We have maybe one salad, one steak and some pasta.”

* In order to celebrate this first-class Michelin dining experience, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah resort and Spa is offering a combination special with a stay at the opulent al Husn Hotel in a deluxe room for two and a chance to enjoy Chef alfredo’s signature dishes for dinner.

Chef Alfredo’s Cime di Rapa, Italian sausage and Mozzarella cheeseThis delicious dish features Cime di Rapa, which is broccoli rabe (pronounced robb). You can alternatively use spring greens or Swiss chard.

It’s not everyday that you have the chance to try Michelin-starred food in Muscat. For a short time only, you can taste Chef Alfredo Russo’s unique creations, writes Y’s Noor Hyder

Recipe

ingredients:l 2kg Cime di Rapal 200g Mozzarella cheesel 300g Beef sausagel 3-4 Fillets salted anchoviesl Croutonsl Dried chillil Extra virgin olive oill Garlicl Grated Parmesan cheese Method: l Wash the greens and separate the florets from the leaves and tender stalks.l Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and blanch the Cime di Rapa.l In a large frying pan heat some extra virgin olive oil, add the garlic, dried chilli and anchovies and stir to mix well.l Add the Cime di Rapa and sauté until they begin to wilt. l Pour the vegetables into a blender and mix to obtain a smooth, thick cream.l Cut the sausages in half and remove the skin. Pan fry on medium heat in a non-stick pan until golden brown and crispy.l To serve, pour a couple of spoonfuls of the Cime di Rapa cream and top with crispy sausage, a spoon of diced mozzarella, some Cime di Rapa flowers, Parmesan cheese and a few croutons.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 3 0

W ho would have known that one of Muscat’s most authentic Japanese restaurants

was hidden away on the 8th floor of the Al Falaj Hotel in Ruwi?

Not many of us surely, since most tend to flock to good ol’ Shatti. So for a change, on Friday night I decided to hit up Tokyo Taro, which I had visited with some sushi fanatics a couple of years ago.

We were greeted by a cute lady at the small reception of the restaurant and were given a choice of two tables close to the entrance. The atmosphere was cool and unrushed, and the restaurant was packed with groups of Omani families, young foreign couples and what looked like a business meeting with foreign visitors.

We sat down, our tummies rumbling in anticipation and were given our first taste of Japanese tradition in the form of a warm napkin to clean our hands. Normally we would have started chit-chatting, but given our ravenous state, we kept quiet and waited for someone to arrive.

We waited. And then waited some more. Ten slow minutes ticked by with no sign of a waiter to flag down to even request a menu. I finally caught the eye of the lady at the reception desk and signalled the blatant lack of service. Twenty minutes after our arrival, the menus

finally came.Time for a disclaimer – while

both my companion and I like our tempura and sushi, we are not experienced in Japanese cuisine – our sushi is mostly picked by friends who know what they are talking about.

So when the waitress came by, looking somewhat antsy, we explained our predicament to her and asked for guidance. She wasn’t interested. Half-heartedly pointing out random things on the menu, she managed to throw in a bored warning that if we were Muslims we might want to avoid the Ramen as it contains pork.

We made our choices for starters and mains, but time was moving on: by now it was 10.20pm. The kitchen was closing soon, our waitress informed us, and already taking last requests, so we hurriedly threw in a dessert request for some deep fried ice cream.

Thankfully, the wait for the food was not a long one. My stomach was on the verge of getting 'hangry' (hungry-angry) so I was delighted when the selected yakisoba (fried noodles) and deep-fried breaded prawns arrived. The prawns were perfect, without any excess oil. Accompanied by a weightless, tangy sauce, my taste buds were tingling and happy.

The fried tempura basket was much lighter, but just as pleasing, with an array of prawn, fish and vegetables. Garnished with cabbage, carrot and green pepper, there was a decent amount of chicken in the yakisoba. Unfortunately, it was a tad bland and much too similar to the pot noodles I relied on through my university days.

Feeling thirsty, I glugged down a cold coke while my sister-in-law sipped on her Oolong tea. She remarked that despite the slightly funky smell, the tea was refreshing and a good way to cleanse the palate.

When our sushi boat arrived, we ooh-ed and

aah-ed at how adorable it was – even down to the little sushi passengers.

There were no less than 15 types of sushi from

kappa maki to ebi nigiri. Thumb and index finger in place, we attacked the boat. I personally loved the cucumber rolls, while my sister-in-law was seduced by the tamagoyaki.

The sushi was fresh and completely enjoyable, even for us newbies. We finally forgot our exasperation at the bad service and were busy throwing ourselves into the exciting tastes when, from nowhere, a waiter arrived with our dessert.

Chopsticks frozen mid-air, I

explained that we weren’t done with our main meal and didn’t want the ice cream to melt while we polished off the rest of our dinner. He turned back, but soon returned, bumbling with apologies about how once served, the kitchen couldn’t keep it. Due to his genuine manner and obvious lack of control over the situation, we let it sit there and slowly melt as we rushed our way through the rest of the food.

The ice cream was the perfect finale to the meal, complimented by the surrounding creamy vanilla custard and garnish of orange peel.

I was emotionally exhausted at this point. Loving most of the food, but far from being enamoured with the service, had left me confused. I couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable at how eager the staff were to get us out of the restaurant.

Although the closing time was 11.30pm, a waiter brought us our bill at 11.10pm and awkwardly left it at the table while we tried to enjoy our dessert. We paid our bill, a fair RO31, and left, tummies full and taste buds sated but our hearts a little bruised.

Tokyo Taro has great food, but left much to be desired in the service department. For experienced sushi eaters, these restaurants offer a real haven but for those that don’t know much about the art, perhaps find a more welcoming place to test the sushi waters.

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

Sub-Service SushiA little piece of Tokyo hides away in Ruwi, but don’t expect to find traditional Japanese hospitality there, says Noor Hyder

FOOD

DRINKAND

verdict:

Fantastic food trodden on by unimpressive

service

6 10

Info BoxTokyo Taro

8th Floor, Al Falaj HotelRuwi, MuscatTel: 24702311

Lunch: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm (Saturdays to Thursdays)

Dinner: 7.00 pm to 11.00 pmPrice: Two course dinner for two,

including drinks RO31

y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

M A R 2 7 - A P R 0 2 / I S S U E 3 1 30 3 2

the Sporty mUSt-haVe

A luxe bomber replaces the blazer this season. Wear

yours with a pencil skirt for a modern, daytime edge

then switch to black cigarette pants for after dark. This see-through version by Mia ticks

all the trend boxes.

HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 3 2

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 3 3

RiGHT TRACk From sporty fabrics to athletic silhouettes, designers take their inspiration from the Olympics this season, discovers Penny Fray

SpORTING TOUCHES

1. Slouchy joggers or a basketball dress may not be office appropriate but there’s nothing stopping you from giving a work shift a lift with a sporty belt and mesh heels. 2. Try slinging on an embellished sweatshirt when sipping mocktails in one of Muscat’s beach bars. 3. Hate trainers? Try a pair of pool sliders instead. The metallic versions are all the rage this summer – plus, they’re super comfortable.

Penny’s tips on working the athletic look this

season (without looking like an Olympian

wannabe):

Gucci’s cutout ankle boots were part of the opening look on the label’s Spring 2014 runway. This statement pair is crafted from black leather with a glossy octagonal heel and elasticated front straps. From ro423

Loads of designers from Alexander Wang to Prada are championing the once-humble bomber for Spring, giving it a luxe makeover. Our high-street favourite is this limited edition Jacquard number from Marks & Spencer. From ro33

This satin panel T-Shirt from Mango looks much more expensive than its ro12 price tag.

Let’s get this straight from the outset - you don’t have to be a Lycra-wearing, lettuce-munching gym bunny to embrace this season’s

sports trend. Put those bad memories of cross country runs and hockey bruises aside as fashion’s focus on athletic luxe returns to the catwalk. Yes, I know, we’ve been here before. But athletics really is Spring/Summer’s biggest obsession and you need to take it seriously - even if you are allergic to exercise.

Think silky bomber jackets at Jonathan Saunders, chic shorts at Balenciaga and basketball vest dresses by Tommy Hilfiger.

Meanwhile, DKNY showcased anoraks in translucent plastic and neoprene and sporty block-coloured panelling on jackets. Gucci upped the stakes with see-through black mesh T-Shirts and tracksuits in sheer-black pleated silk and liquid lamé – not exactly practical – but hey-ho, that’s designer wear for you.

Of course, not everyone can (and would want to) pull off Victoria Beckham’s micro gymslips or teeny, tiny tennis skirts. More forgiving, perhaps, is the pleated skirt worn with a longer cropped top and sporty heels à la Derek Lam.

Alternatively, why not try replacing a stiff white shirt for a buttoned-up polo? It’s just as respectable for the office but adds a touch of cool. In fact, Spring’s obsession with taking sportswear out of the gym and into everyday living is the reason why we’re revisiting this most versatile of trends. It’s all about contrasts. So, try teaming heels with track pants, mesh panels on jackets or skate shoes with tea dresses. The idea is not to be too literal. When it comes to bags, go for the rucksack (unless you’re brave enough to go retro with an 80s bum bag) – although the high street has done a great job by adding athletic details to clutches with bright piping and basketball numbers.

The Row’s black stretch-crepe skinny pants will work for any occasion from off-duty dashing to evening elegance. Satin side panels give this perfectly tailored pair standout appeal. Wear yours with a bomber jacket or oversized vest top. From Net-a-Porter. ro357

Who says sporty bags have to be big and bulky? This uber-cute clutch from Zara ticks all the right boxes. ro20

0 3 4

HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8

We begin every morning the same way: complain about the bags under our eyes and curse any new creases that have taken up residence on our face. Ageing happens to the best of us. But before you opt for Botox, try Yotox instead – the

A-lister’s anti-wrinkle workout. Facial yoga, or Yotox, supposedly practiced by both Gwyneth Paltrow

and Jennifer Aniston, is a relatively new and needle-free approach to

dealing with both facial lines and sagging. Drawing on the ancient practice of yoga, it provides a range of exercises that are understood to strengthen muscles and release the tension that causes wrinkles.

“The exercises also improve circulation, giving a younger-looking glow to the skin,” claims teacher and practitioner Annelise Hagan.

This natural facelift is free, easy and can be done daily at home. Here are four of my favourite postures – done in private, naturally!

wRinkles goodByekiss youR Who needs Botox when there’s Yotox? Penny Fray tries out the needle-free solution to ageing

the lion Inhale and scrunch up your face as though you’ve just

tasted something bitter. Release when you exhale, sticking out

your tongue and rolling your eyes up. Hold the pose for one minute because this will help release tension in the jaw area as well as reducing eye bags.

the MaRilyn Plump up your

lips and tone your cheeks by

blowing a kiss. For best results, create resistance with your index and middle fingers.

BaBy BiRd Tilt your head back and touch

the roof of your mouth with your

tongue. Smile, then relax, keeping your tongue in place. Repeat 30 times to firm your neck and jawline.

tRaMline sMootheR Want to tackle forehead

furrows without the jab? Raise your eyebrows,

pressing the three middle fingers of each hand into the outer edges of each eyebrow. Lower and raise your eyebrows 40 times.

STYLE COUNSEL BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS

YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

Dear fellow Vintage Lover,Actually, your shape is the easiest to dress in this stylish look.Firstly, get a single-breasted box jacket (double will make your

bust look bigger) and stay with a flat fabric in one colour. No bouclé or checks – your skirt can provide that contrast. To conceal the slightest of imperfection in your hip area, find a sleeveless peplum top in a matching colour to either the jacket or shirt. Mix your fabrics. Your pencil skirt should be high-waisted, the length depends on your height, but never above the knee. Pointy-toed kitten heels and a structured handbag are the perfect accessories together with short oval, dark red

nails, matching lipstick and big hair. To stay true to your look, keep your jewellery simple with stud earrings and a single strand of

pearls. You are now ready for your cameo role in Mad Men. If you have any

fashion questions for Barbra, email

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

ytabloid

I love the vintage look of little box jackets over pencil skirts but they don’t seem to suit me because of my height and frame – I have a curvy figure. Is there any other way I can copy the

original Mad Men look while staying on trend? Vintage Lover, Al Ansab

Q. a.

Dolce & Gabbana’s slingback pumps are ornamented with a cluster of crystals at the pointed toe. We love how the leopard print design is woven into the raffia.

kiss youR

Indexing the media landscape

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fo l l o w u s o n :

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 3 7

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

CARS ANDINDOORS Shady pLaceS

Dense, lush greenery surrounds a life-

giving falaj, a mere stone’s throw from

the Sultanate’s capital.

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 3 8

CARS ANDOUTDOORS

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

Hubra hidden oases aren’t as far away or as hard to

find as you might think, says jerzy wierzbicki

Destination

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 8 0 3 9

If you’re thinking about visiting locations in the far south of the country, the distance and increasingly hot weather could make you

think twice. And from a photographer’s point

of view, the harsh light of Summer is just as much a challenge as the unpleasant conditions.

My solution, as you’ll know from my trip to Tiwi last week, is to look for hidden gems closer to home.

A few weeks ago, while on a photography assignment in Barka, I decided to check out some locations near Rustaq that might offer a few choice shots for my camera.

Unfortunately, a strong haze covered the mountains that day, obscuring everything and making the light useless for landscape photography. I had to resign myself to little prospect of capturing panoramic scenes with horizons stretching into infinity.

But there is always a way to find a good alternative and, here in Oman, we’re blessed with an abundance of unusual locations, no matter the conditions or weather.

I was also after something a little different this time and hoped I might even find somewhere to escape the encroaching heat.

Studying the map, I could see that there were a few interesting looking villages located near the mountains around Nakhal. I climbed into my Land Cruiser and headed out on the road between Nakhal and Rustaq.

En route, I noticed a huge expanse of green just a few kilometres from the main road, surrounding the village of Hubra (also known as Hibra). Palm trees extended into the distance as far as the eye could see, a lush green framed against the deep blue of the sky overhead.

As I turned into the village, I realised what a perfect little place this was to visit on a day like this. As soon as I neared the expansive vegetation the atmosphere became entirely different.

I stopped by the palms and ventured down a track between the trees.

It was as though the trees had

created a microclimate noticeably different from the stifling heat just a few yards up the road where I had come from.

The air was perceptibly cooler and offered some respite from the scorching sun.

Parts of the village were nestled among the trees with some buildings almost hidden by the greenery, creating private havens from the outside world.

All around me there was a huge falaj system. Its channels, filled with gently moving fresh water, snaked around the plantation. It was clear that they brought life to what would otherwise be a barren landscape.

On reflection, it appeared to be one of the biggest examples of the irrigation system that I had seen in the country.

Standing in the middle of the plantation, everything around me was verdant green. This fertile oasis felt more like Dhofar’s mountains during the Khareef season than the surrounds of Muscat.

What’s more, Hubra offered a great little insight into a modern Omani village. It was quiet and

clean and populated with traditional Omani villas.

Handmade mosaics could be seen on some walls and also, on each villa, the names of the inhabitants.

Aside from providing a snapshot of Omani life, Hubra is also a lovely place to go to experience some peace and quiet.

If you do visit, just respect that tranquility.

hoW to Get there

From Barka, take the main road towards Rustaq and look out for signposts. Hubra village is easy to reach and is located just off the main road before Nakhal.The roads are in perfect condition and you will not need a 4x4. The

total distance from Muscat’s Sahwa Clock Tower is just under 100 km. GpS location of hibra village: 23°29’44.05”N 57°50’8.58”ETR

AVEL

GUi

DE

M AY 0 1 - 0 7 / I S S U E 3 1 80 4 0

CARS ANDOUTDOORSCARS ANDOUTDOORS

DogDachshund of the Desert, Trop, proves that you might just be able to teach an old dog new tricks after all, says Tom Robertson.

For those of you that don’t know him, let me introduce you to Trop. Some will already be familiar with this little canine cutie from the pages of our magazine. A little Dachshund belonging to Y’s roving photographer, Jerzy Wierzbicki, Trop can often be seen on the

Destination pages of Y, scampering over the dunes of the Empty Quarter or posing on rocky outcrops in the Hajar Mountains.

So you’ll also understand our slight trepidation when it was suggested that Trop accompany myself and Jerzy to an obedience school. For the dog, of course, not Jerzy. Jittery after sitting in the office for just half an hour, nobody will be getting Jerzy to ‘sit’ anytime soon. I hoped his dog wouldn’t be the same.

“How long do you think this will take?” Jerzy asked as we approached the gates of Canadian Jebel K9 Dog Training & Services in Bawshar. “Because I think we will only have Trop’s attention for ten minutes maximum.” Already, our plan wasn’t looking good.

But then Trop met his adversary. Sweeping out to meet us, the 12-year-old caught his first sight of Alfa Vold, Managing Director and founder of the company. With over 15 years professional experience, she was teaching dogs like Trop to roll over when he was but a twinkle in his mother’s big brown eyes.

Having founded the canine training centre five years ago, she had kindly agreed to put the Y hound through his paces. But first he had to be interviewed, for which Jerzy would be his spokesman.

“When you call him, does he come back to you?”“When he’s on the leash, yes.”“Does he pull when he’s on the leash?”“All the time.”“When he’s off the leash and you call him, does he come back to you”“Yes – but only on the third time. The first two times, he does absolutely

nothing.”“Does he come to heel?”“If you ask him with a full sentence, yes.”“How’s his diet?”“Good, I cook for him three or four times a week. He likes to have

chicken and rice on at least one of those occasions.”With the questioning over, it’s time to see how Trop’s obedience stacks

up. After watching Jerzy and Trop take a short walk round the centre’s air-conditioned training room, Alfa calls to one of her helpers: “We’re going to need the sausages.”

Which is a good job. Because while he’s a Polish native speaker with some pigeon English, Trop, like most dogs, talks sausage. What follows is then a series of exercises that, within half an hour, quickly has Trop recognising a simple command and coming to heel more swiftly. Performing admirably, he got a short taste of a course that would soon whip him into shape.

The school has a variety of courses that will bring a dog up to different levels of training. A six-week group obedience course can take a dog from

Trop

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

being totally uncontrollable and disobedient, to being able to act appropriately when on a leash.

Then there’s an intermediate course or even private lessons. But one method proving popular is for dogs to stay at the centre and undertake a month’s intensive tuition. Up to 30 dogs can stay at any one time, after which the dog is handed back to the owners like a former delinquent returning to his parents from a Swiss boarding school.

“But then we have to also teach the owners the correct commands as well.” says Alfa. “Body language and hand signals need to be taught to the owner.”

But, despite his best efforts, it’s soon agreed that little Trop hasn’t quite achieved basic level. We would, however, have the chance to see Alfa’s star student in action. And so in bounds Diego, a hulking purebred Alsatian who’s received the finest education – and it shows. He walks with a strut that says, “I’m friendly, restrained and hugely huggable. But I’m big enough and strong enough to flatten a small family car.”

But boy is he well trained and a testament to Alfa’s teaching methods, who has had him since a pup. Without saying a word, there’s a flick of the wrist and top of the class Diego has sat himself at Alfa’s feet quietly. Another silent gesture and she walks away while he stays put. A final silent swipe of the air and Diego lies down, knowing that he’s there until told to move. Trop can only sit and watch a master in action.

But what about the other local breeds? Is it just purebreds such as Diego that can be put through training?

“We’ve trained a lot of wadi dogs here. There’s some aggression issues but don’t forget that not all purebreds are bundles of joy either. Probably one of the worst bites I ever got was from a Chihuahua!” laughs Alfa.

“But wadi dogs can be trained like any other. We have two that came in through Omani Paws and they’re lovely. My own best dog is a wadi dog. I had to work hard with her in training but she’s simply the best now. I love her to bits.”

● Command – Each command is to be given once, followed by praise or correction depending on the outcome.● Motivation – Have a positive attitude to encourage the dog to engage with you.● Praise – Use positive reinforcement by verbal praise, petting or treats.● release – Always mark the end of the exercise with a cue, such as ‘Free!’ or a physical signal, like clapping.

AlfA VolD’s Top TrAining Tips

ConTACT:Canadian Jebel K9 Dog Training & ServicesAlfa Vold, Managing Director+968 9941 9595jebelk9@telus.netwww.facebook.com/Canadian-Jebel-K9-Dog-Training-Services

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Top 5 pLACES To ViSiT:1. Glasgow’s West end2. kelvingrove art Gallery & Museum3. Clyde arc Bridge (squinty Bridge)4. Citizens Theatre 5. Botanic Gardens

GaLLUS GLaSGow Scotland’s biggest

city has charm and cheekiness. Its secrets may surprise you.

CARS ANDINDOORS

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My favourite place Apart from the parks, one of my favourite places is the Glasgow Film Theatre (GFT), an Art Deco cinema in the city centre just down from the stunning Glasgow School of Art.

The GFT is just so civilised, a place to sip tea and watch the best of world and British cinema. Film is revered there and disdain is shown to anyone who speaks during the showing or dares to stand

up while the credits are still rolling. No crunchy nachos available here. Not that it is affected. Wednesday is pensioners’ day and students and the unemployed get discounts.

The GFT is also a charitable trust so it just feels right to support it in preference to the greedy multiplexes.

Highlights Glasgow plays host to this year’s Commonwealth Games so there’s excitement in the air and a few major new additions to the city’s landscape. The Hydro is a new concert stadium near the River Clyde and in the east of the city is the Chris Hoy Velodrome and the Emirates Arena.

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must. Like all of Scotland’s museums, it is free and this one is the UK’s most visited museum outside of London. It’s home to a diverse range of exhibits from armoury to dinosaur bones and the gallery houses one of Europe’s greatest civic art collections. Do not miss the Christ of Saint John on The Cross by Salvador Dali. When it was originally bought for the city there was uproar at the splurge, but now that it’s priceless, no one complains.

The Citizens’ Theatre, as its name suggests, was built as a theatre of the people in 1878. To make it accessible to all, it was deliberately located in the heart of the Gorbals, then a Glasgow slum but which has since been regenerated. The greats like Laurence Olivier and John Gielgud played there for a fraction of their usual fee to show solidarity with its egalitarian, founding principle.

Head west for some great restaurants and bars. The new dining district is in Finnieston on the fringes of the West End. Have a cream tea at the gorgeous Hidden Lane Tearoom, fresh langoustine at the CrabShakk, fine dining at The Gannet and cocktails at the cool Kelvingrove Café. On Thursday and Sunday nights, listen to traditional fiddlers in the Ben Nevis bar.

Lowlights There is a vibrant nightlife in Glasgow, which gives the city centre a wild west feel at the weekends.

Best stick to the more genteel West End if your crazy days are behind you. The weather is also unpredictable. Dress in layers and prepare for four seasons in one day.

Souvenirs Go to Mellis Cheese shop in the West End for Arran Cheddar, a Scottish delicacy from the island of the same name. There are places to buy cheesier souvenirs like shortbread, tartan and haggis but for the more sophisticated option try The Little Shop of Interest in Finnieston, which has locally designed, silk scarves, jewellery, soft furnishings and art.

Where to stay For a quaint B&B, choose the Flower House in Finnieston. It’s decorated with original Victorian antiques and its gardens are overflowing with a rainbow of blooms. To go upmarket, stay at the Blythswood Hotel, with furnishings clad in the world-famous Harris Tweed and where the cocktails and the spa are to die for. Remember too that Glasgow is a great base for exploring the rest of Scotland, including the magnificent Western Highlands. It’s 45 minutes by train from Edinburgh and an hour away from the majesty of Loch Lomond, where you can take a cruise across the water (no monster here - that’s Loch Ness).

GLASGOW

The Clyde AudiTorium

gAllery of modern ArT

Annie Brown, recommends

glAsgow CAThedrAl

T hey ca l l g lasgow the dear green P lace and they say i ts peop le make the c i ty . The w ide expanse of park land form the l ungs , the river Clyde the artery and i ts res idents , the heart .

i t i s a fr iend ly , unpretent i o us c i ty , educated but not e l i t i st , cu l t ured but not contr ived . g lasgow ’s found ing fathers i ns isted that the workers cou ld a lways escape from the c law ing sweat of i ndustr ies l i ke sh i pbu i l d i ng , wh ich once f l o ur ished on the Clyde . so you can meander for h ours i n the peace of parks l i ke Ke lv ingrove , the Botan ic gardens and Queen ’s Park . Be l l h o uston Park to the south of the river Clyde i s where to f ind the o ld h ouse of Char les renn ie mack intosh , the g lasgow art ist whose work i s coveted across the wor ld .

The wea lthy merchants who once p l i ed the i r trade in g lasgow left a l egacy of decadence i n the grand i ose arch i tecture . The c i ty chambers has the largest marb le sta i rcase in the wor ld and i s worth a tour . But the way to savour g lasgow ’s ornate bu i l d i ng work i s t o l o ok up at the majesty of a bygone era, rest ing on the shou lders of i ts i nfer i or modern equ iva lent , be l ow .

i f a v is i t or l o oks l ost , w i th in m inutes a l oca l w i l l o ffer them d i rect i ons and peop le even chat to each other on i ts t iny metro , break ing every c i ty ru l e i n the book .

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

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

EDiToR’S piCk

WE’RE ALL GoiNG oN A SUMMER HoLiDAY

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

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Safe SanDaLSIMAGINE THIS: YOU’RE STAYING AT A HOTEL CLOSE TO THE BEACH. YOU CAN’T HELP BUT VENTURE INTO THE TURQUOISE WATERS FOR THE ODD DIP EVERY NOW AND THEN. BUT CONSTANTLY KEEPING AN EYE ON YOUR PILE OF UNSECURED BELONGINGS USUALLY RESULTS IN MORE STRESS THAN RELAXATION. WELL, FRET NO MORE. WHILE STASH SANDALS MAY BE COMFORTABLE TO WEAR AT THE BEACH, THE REAL GENIUS BEHIND THESE FLIP-FLOPS IS HIDDEN IN THE SOLES; EACH SANDAL HOUSES A SECRET COMPARTMENT. SLIDE OUT THE CLANDESTINE LITTLE TRAYS AND HIDE PERSONAL ITEMS THERE SUCH AS KEYS AND MONEY TO KEEP THEM HIDDEN WELL OUT OF SIGHT. GREAT, I’M OFF SURFING BUT A LITTLE WORRIED THAT SOMEONE’S GOING TO NICK MY COOL SANDALS! Ro18 AT www.reef.com

Drop Shot So you want to sit by the pool and chill out but worry about your expensive camera getting a drenching. Or you fancy a hike up a peak but fear dropping it on rocks. Arguably one of the

best in the rugged camera class, the

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS5D is waterproof up to

14 metres and can survive a fall from two metres. The little Panasonic is even Wi-Fi enabled allowing you to control it with your phone. You’ll also never forget where you took that photo with the in-built GPS. A seriously tough and intelligent camera. www.amazon.com Ro95

path finDer You no longer need a car to use a navigation device. The Asus R300 Portable Navigator is a unit roughly the size of an iPhone that can slide into your pocket and give directions in pedestrian, bike and even bus mode. That’s not all, the R300 can access photos, music files, and even videos using an external Micro SD card. Bluetooth connectivity and an embedded FM transmitter also lets you pipe directions through your car stereo. Cool. www.amazon.com from Ro115

LoSt in tranSLation Going somewhere where they don’t speak your lingo? Then you’re going to need the Franklin 12-language-speaking Global Translator. It sounds too good to be true. Who can deny the need for essential phrases, such as: “My friend will pick up the tab.” Okay, so that’s not one of the 12,000 pre-programmed sentences on the Franklin but there are others that will come in handy. There’s a whopping 450,000 words stored in its memory but they may take a while to find with its clunky interface. Worth piecing together though to find a decent meal using the built-in travel guide. Ro88.53 www.franklin.com

It’s that time of year to escape the heat again. Matthew Herbst finds the handiest gadgets for far-flung locales

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

app of the week

jack anD jiLLSkullcandy Knockout headphones are built with premium materials and custom-designed with a feminine edge to suit the

fashion-conscious femmes. The company’s engineers went to town

with this one with their custom-tuned audio driver producing cleaner, crisper and deeper sounds. Fitted with memory foam and purclean ear cushions to prevent the build up of germs. The Knockout’s detachable cable eliminates cable tangling and increases the longevity of your favourite headphones. Store them easily with their foldable hinge and nifty wristlet bag. Ro38 See www.skullcandy.com

toDDLer tranSportMake travelling with your child effortless with this neat idea, which converts your car seat into an airport stroller. Click on the car seat and junior will be happy to sit back and let you do all the work. The B Roll ‘n Go Car Seat Transporter’s design keeps the seat stable and your precious cargo steady. The telescopic handle also has fold-flat wheels for compact storage. Seat can stay attached for pedestrian travel too. Ro120 for both Britax seat and Brica frame.www.amazon.com

neW! So you want to lug a whopping great TV screen with you on holiday because all you dream of is chilling out, watching some movies or playing games. But that kind of visual tech isn’t going to fit in your suitcase. What will fit in your hand luggage, however, is Vuzix’s Wrap 1200DX digital eyewear. Twin high resolution screens in the glasses give the impression of a gigantic 75-inch screen as seen from three metres away.

Vuzix Wrap 1200Dx

for herSo you’ve taken the kids away while their father’s stuck at the office - but they still need entertaining while you’ve got hands full. Sit them down in the hotel room with the Sifteo Cubes, an award-winning game system. Responding to movement such as tilting and flipping they come with four pre-loaded educational games. Ro159 from Amazon.com

The Wrap 1200DX connects to virtually any compatible HDMI device from mobile phones to video game consoles.

features standard 2d viewing as well as a 3d mode for connecting up to compatible media devices to watch the latest hollywood blockbusters in 3d.

Comes with stereo noise-cancelling headphones pumping out high-fidelity sound for a truly immersive cinema experience when travelling.

conVert itIf you’re heading for a holiday cashpoint, there’s surely nothing worse than wanting to withdraw RO50 only to realise that you’ve just dropped the equivalent of 500. (Ahem, not that I’ve done that.). So make sure you know how much your baisa is worth when abroad by downloading the XE Currency App. It not only converts sums into virtually every national currency, but also gives you up-to-date changes. Worth it’s weight in gold but free at itunes.com

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Sit back and let the Ford Fusion do all the hard work while you simply enjoy the smoothest of rides, just as Kate Ginn did

CAR oF THE WEEk

Ford FusionSpecifications

Engine: 2.5L i-VCTHorsepower: 175

Transmission: Six-speed auto SelectShift Transmission (SST) with thumb switch on gear shift

Acceleration: 0-100kmh in 9.5 seconds

Price: From RO9,399

check this out

Eight airbags, including front- seat-mounted side impact and side curtains

Remote keyless entry with boot release

Tyre pressure monitoring system

16” steel wheels (17” alloy wheels on SE)

LED rear tail lamps SYNC with MyFord voice-

activated communications and entertainment system

Rear Park Pilot (SE) Four-speaker audio system with

CD player (six-speaker with SE) Outer temperature display (SE) Rear air-conditioning ducts (SE)

CARS ANDINDOORS

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

There are some cars that make you work hard for their company. They demand your full

attention, insist on being the focus of attention and expect a driver to adapt to their challenges, rather than the other way round.

Not the Ford Fusion.Our time together was so easy,

relaxing even, that I was reluctant to let it end. As Ford Oman needed their car back, I had to return it but even now, several weeks later, I still smile fondly thinking about the test drive.

Never has a car been so straightforward or felt such a pleasure to drive. The Fusion does everything for you, and beautifully. You just have to sit back, relax and take in the view around you – a perfectly formed centre console, comfy seats and the wonderful sweep of the dashboard curving along the eye line.

Even after a few hours behind the wheel of the Fusion, I didn’t feel any driver fatigue at all and was still raring to go. It’s one of those cars where you find yourself making up errands just to have an excuse to drive it more.

I have to say the specs are pretty impressive. Even at the base level, S, it’s packed to the brim with features that on other cars might need more rials forked out, such as a perimeter alarm and colour-coded mouldings.

The Fusion very much looks and drives like a grown-up car. Driving it, you can’t help feel a little more sensible and serious, which in my profession is no bad thing. This car would, I imagine, appeal to established executives, young pups climbing up the corporate ladder wanting to make an impression and family men or women seeking a plush kiddy wagon.

All of the above will probably be surprised by the power of the Fusion. I certainly was. A light touch on the accelerator and it shot forward like a whippet, bounding along with undisguised glee. But then, it is packing a muscular 2.5L under the bonnet.

I found the Fusion a very good-looking car too. A large chrome grill and halogen headlights lend it an almost human air and the alloy wheels on my SE model (one up from the S) added a sporty finish.

On its debut (in 2006), the Ford Fusion was a landmark car for

the company, giving it a strong footing in the saloon market again. A redesign with the 2013 model made it even more attractive with striking styling, better fuel efficiency and build.

It certainly all adds up to a very desirable package.

Cruising down the Sultan Qaboos highway in my Fusion with a fat orange sun high in the sky was indeed an enjoyable way to travel, there was no fuss or drama, just a smooth, relaxed ride. It’s also incredibly quiet, even at high speeds.

If you like gadgets, there’s a good stereo and Ford’s SYNC system with voice-activated communications and entertainment for hands-free calls and downloading your own music on the move. Everything is nicely placed at your fingertips, requiring little effort.

But that’s the beauty of the Ford Fusion. It’s all so easy.

The cabin is also incredibly spacious, though the head height was a little restrictive for me (I’m almost 6ft tall) and just a few extra inches would have been welcome.

Still, it was a minor complaint in an otherwise perfect fit.

They say: ‘Don’t be Invisible,

Stand Out.’We say:

‘Dream to drive.’

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