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Your top guide to the best of oman, everY week

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HEALTH: Moonlight MadnessDESTINATION: Discover the hidden village of Bilad Sayt

News: CRACKDOWN ON BEGGARS10

MY IFTAR / WORLD CUP / RAMADAN GIVEAWAYS / STYLE COUNSEL / TASTE TEST / GARDEN GADGETS / FAB FILMS

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givingOMAN OPENS ITS HEART

J U LY 1 0 - 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 8 0 3

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

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine –

your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has

to offer.

EDITOR IN CHIEFSayyida Iman bint Hamad

bin Hamood Al Busaidi

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Eihab Abutaha

MANAGING EDITORFelicity Glover

SECTIONS EDITORKate Ginn

ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki

INTERNS Deeba Hasan

Siddharth Seshan

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Feroz Khan

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

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Fast forwardWe are less than two weeks into Ramadan and already seeing a lot of good

deeds out there. From mosques providing Iftar to the needy to companies ramping up their corporate social responsibility campaigns during the Holy

Month, it seems that giving, rather than receiving, is the order of the day.In our cover story this week, Team Y has tracked down some of the best acts of

generosity so far, including one in which DHL, the global courier company, plucked an ordinary man off the street and rewarded him with RO150 to spend on his family in India. In another great initiative, Jotun, the paint company, did an extreme makeover of a family’s home in Muscat, literally rebuilding it from scratch.

Meanwhile, we head to the mountains to visit the spectacular hidden village of Bilad Sayt in Destination, check out Kuala Lumpur in Postcard and try the Iftar buffet at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel.

In Fashion, the androgynous look is back, while we check out the latest gardening gadgets in Y-Fi and give you the rundown on Boot Camp Zulu to help keep you and your exercise routine on track for the summer.

Enjoy your week!TEAM Y

editor@y-oman.com

Team Y’s new managing editor

is celebrating the arrival of her

shipment and looking forward to finally setting up her home in Muscat, while

others have been jetsetting

to the UK or checking out the

new Spinneys supermarket at

The Wave.

THIS WEEK…

The bAROMeTeR

Congratulations to this week’s Ramadan giveaway winners. To see the full list – and to check if you are the lucky winner of our Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 – turn to P24-25.

GOiNG UPINFLATION

According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, Oman’s

inflation rate in May rose by 1.48 per cent compared with the same period last year.

Seafood recorded the biggest jump in price, rising by 10.94 per cent.

GOiNG DOWNMUSIC BLUES

Catching a nasty cold while rocking it at a rainy, muddy Glastonbury music festival

in the UK, only to sound like Foghorn Leghorn around the office all week.

WINNeRS

contentsJ U L Y 1 0 - 1 6 2 0 1 4

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Yo u r O m a n06 My iftar Deeba Hasan

08 Voice of Oman Ali al Rahma

10 News Ramadan Beggars Caught

15 Gallery Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque

fo o d a n d d r i n k28 Food Feature Supercharged foods

30 Food Review Mokha Café

T h i s w e e k16 Movie Listings Draft Day

18 This Week Calling Young Cooks

C a r s a n d A d v e n t u r e s38 Destination Bilad Sayt

40 Outdoors Work It Out

42 Postcard From Kuala Lumpur

44 Y-Fi Green Fingers

46 Car of the Week Honda CITY

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fe at u r e20 Spreading The Love Good Deeds To Those In Need

h e a l t h a n d b e a u t y32 Fashion Buy Now, Wear Later

35 Style Counsel Barbra Young

GiRLS’ BiG OMAN ADVENTURE / MEN’S AUTUMN FASHiON / GLUTEN FREE / LiNCOLN MOTOR / RETRO FOOD

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE...

20

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My IftarIN THE SECOND OF OUR SPECIAL RAMADAN SERIES, DEEBA HASAN VISITS A HOME IN MUSCAT TO SEE HOW THE WAGLE FAMILY CELEBRATES IFTAR TOGETHER

Last week, I wrote about how I normally spend Iftar time with my family. This week,

my curiosity on how people break their fast around Muscat took me and my younger brother, Bilal, to the home of Ameen Wagle, a 22-year-old architecture graduate who lives with his mum, a homemaker, and dad, a businessman, in a cosy apartment in Darsait.

Arriving at the building’s compound, we was met by Ameen, who escorted us to their apartment. Inside, we were welcomed by the lovely smells wafting from the kitchen and then by Shamshad Wagle, who was responsible for all those wonderful cooking smells emanating from her domain.

She showed me into the dining hall, where I saw a table laid out with a variety of yummy delicacies. I realised that the Indian Iftar platter, no matter where you go or where you are in the world, is always very elaborate.

While I sat down on the couch and made myself comfortable, I saw Ameen’s father, Mohammed Shafi, make his way into the dining space. On seeing me, he greeted me and welcomed me to his house. Ameen helped his mum get all the other dishes and items to the table. This would normally be done by his two older sisters, but because they are married and settled in different countries, Ameen helps his mother with

arranging everything.As the time for Iftar neared, we

sat at the table and waited for the Adhaan (call to prayer) to be heard. When it was time, we started with a couple of dates and some water, then Ameen’s mother began loading my plate with all those delicious culinary items that she had prepared during the day. The dishes looked tempting and irresistible and I promised Mrs Wagle that I would eat a little of everything because she insisted that I try it all.

Ameen told me: “Ramadan is an extended family time, where we get to spend quality time with our families by waking up together for Suhoor [the pre-dawn meal] and preparing for later, before finally sitting and having Iftar in union.

“Normally, I would spend my evenings with friends but during Ramadan, there is a special sense of belonging with the family and with everyone who fasts the world over. I could associate with every person who fasts because we have our Suhoor, Iftar and Tarawih prayers [extra prayers performed at night during Ramadan] all in common.”

Since the Wagle family comes from the commercial hub of India – Mumbai – I could see some usual items from a Mumbai Iftar platter laid out on their table: black chickpeas, samosa and onion bhajiya. These are types of food that you will find on every Mumbai Iftar table, be it a rich or poor household.

I saw some familiar food varieties and a couple others that I didn’t know. The “bread rolls” made using bread, potatoes, grated cheese, boiled chicken and some veggies

were, I learnt, Mrs Wagle’s signature dish and very popular among her friends. There was also chicken pasta dipped in white sauce, kebabs and sliced fruits. The Iftar drink was very delicious and was made using rose syrup, some faluda (a cold and sweet beverage) and some vanilla ice cream, which gave it a beautiful white tinge. The long time this family has spent in Oman was reflected in the fact that there was also a good portion of Omani halwa at the table as well.

“Fasting, I believe, purifies our soul,” explained Ameen. “It’s not about merely being hungry and thirsty all day long but it’s about spiritually enlightening ourselves. We come face to face with ground realities about how poor people lead their lives, about how they feel when they are hungry and that makes you thankful to Allah for all the luxuries that you can afford but some others can’t. That makes you appreciate all what you have, even the simplest of things like a square meal.”

When my tummy was full and could take no more, I went to pray. Mrs Wagle had arranged for me to do prayer. According to her: “Ramadan is a beautifully disciplined month all together; it’s about sharing and caring, about helping the poor and about appreciating all that you have.”

During Ramadan, the Wagle family sends food to a mosque and labour camps for Iftar. They also

invite friends and neighbours over for Iftar when they are a bit more relaxed, usually on the weekends.

To ensure they maintain a healthy diet throughout the Holy Month, Mrs Wagle prepares for Ramadan a week before and makes a list of all items that should be on the Iftar table throughout the month.

It was indeed a pleasure to have experienced how the Wagles break their fast and what they think of the Holy Month.

Next week, it will be a new home and a new experience, hopefully as good as this one.

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We asked: “do you agree that LuLu Hypermarket employees were right to go on strike for better pay and conditions, or was there another way?”

DEBATE OF THE WEEK

SEEiNG THE BiG RED CiRCUS TOP

correspondencethe voice of oman Ali al Rahma on being true to your dream

NExT WEEK: ROSIE IN THE DESERT

DANIEl MIRANDA PAMBuENAThose employees who joined the strike already had some demands before, but they had not been listened to by management, so this was the last thing the employees could do to be heard. It’s not only in LuLu that they don’t give equal rights to their employees. I hope with this strike that other companies will start listening to their staff so it won’t happen to them as well. I’m a staff member and I know the feeling the LuLu employees have. We are the ones who have to deal with customers’ requests and this includes sarcasm and other bad habits. But because they are our customers, we can’t do anything but obey their needs.

MOHAMMED SAlEEMA strike is not always the right way as you are

Monte Carlo Circus, which has just left Muscat – has filled me with excitement since I was a very young girl. Vivid images of the high-flying trapeze artists and, of course, the exotic wild animals up close. A few decades along the road and I still feel the initial burst of excitement when I see the familiar shape, but now I find myself looking at the wild animal acts with a heavy heart. These animals, unlike the humans, have not chosen the circus life, they did not willingly step into a small cage and travel thousands of miles to perform tricks under bright lights for our pleasure. The circus industry aggressively promotes the industry as safe, fun, family entertainment. This is a long way from the truth. Take a look backstage at the conditions that the animals are kept in, take a look at the training techniques used. Take a look on the inside of an animal who is taken away from the environment that

nature provided him by rights, and then question whether the circus elevates the animal to a higher plane of existence, or is it degraded and humiliated by having a human sitting on its back and performing tricks. If you are happy seeing animals brought

down to this level, then continue to attend these events. But before you

do, consider another fact. There are fatalities in the circus

world when the relationship between man and animal has been tested beyond the limit. Unfortunately there are often losses on both sides.

Despite an increased public awareness and better

protection for animals on other issues, little has changed over the

years in the way that animals in circuses are treated. I would be only too happy to take my family to a circus that used willing human participants, and left the exotic animals wild and free.

Julia Woodville, Muscat

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.

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Have you ever dreamed of becoming a chemical engineer, a neurophysicist,

a dermal-pigmentation technician, a haemorrhoid cream researcher or even a dog walker? Hmm ... or you might have dreamt of starting your own business in air-hole drilling, ringtone recording or rug hooking.

Whatever your dream is, you can make it come true, but probably not in Oman (and countries similar to the Sultanate). I’m referring to the fact that all the efforts that you have put into your studies may not lead you to your true path.

You can walk into any bank in Oman, where the customer service person is supposed to have some sort of expertise in sales. However, he or she may have studied law. Or you visit a process manufacturing company and the person working in the legal department studied marketing. Doesn’t sound right, right?

Well, I’m afraid to say that this is what is going on in Oman. Many people you deal with in your daily life are not supposed to be where they are. What will happen to the future of the tens of thousands of fresh graduates? Are they just going to be randomly picked from a lucky draw and be awarded with a prize (a job)? And if they don’t accept it, will they get another lucky chance?

Why is there a list of majors that the country “approves” or, shall I say, favour: science, business, medical, engineering and management. Why isn’t music or art “approved”? If I love drawing or singing, why do I have to waste four years of my life studying something just because the country doesn’t approve of what I like.?

These people are forced to study the usual majors only to end up in a different realm, where they seem lost and confused. And let’s not get started on the pay cheque.

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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

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putting customers and management into trouble. Instead, there are amicable solutions. It’s a huge foreign investment and people should respect, and henceforth welcome, more future endeavours, which is obviously a plus for Oman’s economy.

RABIYA NABEEl It’s a matter of one’s rights. It’s a brave step taken. But it could have been avoided if management had taken their demands into proper consideration.

MOHAMMAD OSAMA RAWAT The only thing workers have to bargain with is their skill or their labour. Denied the right to withhold it, calling for a strike is the indispensable cornerstone to get their grievances taken by management seriously and settled without delay. But when it comes to customer service, the customers should not be left to harassment for something that is not their fault. LuLu Hypermarket employees should not have done things the way they did. They should have informed the customers of their grievances and plan to go on strike a day or two before it started. They should have the courage to display banners at the main entrances to make the customer aware of this strike so as to prevent them from being stranded for hours at the cash counter without being attended to.

AFzAAl uMAIR They will increase the salaries and after a while, people will ask for more and this will keep going on. This practice will never stop unless you stop recruiting people who are not capable of a particular job. Only a qualified, capable person understands that what he’s earning is right or not.

AvIINESH KuMAR I do not side with either party. I feel a strike is not a bad option, but it must only be used as a last resort after deliberating the consequences, such as loss of pay, company profit, employee-employer relations and morale, in addition to all the time and energy wasted. A big organisation like LuLu must follow strict employee guidelines and have good HR officers in place so that such instances are not repeated.

SANAA AzIz The employees were right as they had given their demands in January, but didn’t get what they deserved. And what better time for the issue to come to light and to be heard than Ramadan, when all of the LuLu checkout counters are full.

MOuzA HADRAMI LuLu is the favourite destination of both nationals and expats for

their day-to-day consumable purchases. The strike caused a lot of discomfort to consumers like us. Of course, it is every worker’s right to fight for their own cause and LuLu employees have done this. But the only point I would like to mention here is that consumers like us were not aware of the proposed strike in advance. Hence, I personally feel the strike could have been avoided and demands should have been met through talks between the two sides, or at least the proposed strike should have been announced to the public well in advance.

SYED BOKHARI Well, certainly every employee has a right to be facilitated under the rules and regulations of any organisation. The agreement between the employer and the employee should be implemented to maintain a smooth and healthy atmosphere between the two, otherwise there will be no other way to protest peacefully to obtain basic rights under the Labour Law. The employer should be well aware of their legitimate rights and demands of employees to avoid these sort of happenings. Islam very clearly says that an employee should be rewarded before his sweat has dried. Hence, these protests become necessary when one is not rewarded as set out in their contracts. The employer must abide by the agreement to avoid and put an end to these happenings.

zAHID SAEED Gull Instead of a strike, why not just sit around a table and talk to solve the problem and the demands?

New debate:Should long-term expats be granted Omani citizenship?

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

dinner for two.

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N E W SYOUR OMANAt least 30 beggars, some carrying knives, have

been arrested and held by the Ministry of Social Development in the first 10 days of

Ramadan. The beggars were Omanis as well as foreigners.

Many of those caught had come into Oman on a visit visa specifically to make money by begging during the Holy Month.

Beggars admit to making a substantial amount of money in Oman.

Most were found begging outside mosques in Seeb, Bawshar, old Muscat and Muttrah.

To fool people into thinking they were Omani, some dressed in dishdashas and spoke fluently in the local dialet.

“Among those caught was a woman with a baby

who had come from a neighbouring country,” said Abdullah bin Khalfan al Talei, chairman of the anti-begging department at the Ministry. “She confessed that she and her countrymen make good money begging in Oman.

“There are some who carry knives and we have to be careful.”

Buraimi, Sohar and Salalah have centres to deal with those who have been arrested.

Special Ramadan camps for officials have also been set up in Sur, Nizwa and Ibra.

Stricter visa processes have seen a drop in the number of begging cases this year.

Due to the Khareef season along with Ramadan, Salalah has seen an increase in the number of cases, however.

BEGGING CRACKDOWN

Latest figures reveal that the number of expatriate workers coming to Oman has fallen over the past two months.

Numbers were down for Indians, Pakistanis, Ethiopians and Egyptians, between the months of March and May, according to data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

While the drop is small - 0.1 per cent less Indian expats arrived in the Sultanate in May than April - it marks a significant change. Previous months have seen expatriate worker numbers on a continuous rise.

In March, 597,769 Indian workers came to Oman. In April, this fell to 596,226. Numbers for Pakistani workers were 222,355 in March with a fall to 220,871 in April.

Since March, there has been a noticeable drop in Ethiopian workers following a ban on new visas for domestic workers from the African country.

Reports claim that workers from south India are starting to become unwilling to move to the Gulf and are looking for opportunities elsewhere.

OMAN EXPATS DECLINE

Words: Siddharth Seshan

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G a l l e r y I n t e r v i e w N E W SYOUR OMAN A W E E K I N P I C T U R E S

Oman has offered jobs to some of the 46 nurses released by Iraqi insurgents as fighting continues amid chaos at Iraq Parliament meeting

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

Roger Federer fails to win an historic eighth Wimbledon tennis title after losing to Novak Djokovic in a five-set thriller

Protests in Hong Kong calling for greater democracy as frustration grows over influence of Beijing on the city-state

Former President of France Nicolas Sarkozy charged with corruption after allegations he received RO26 million illegal campaign funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi

Young people and students will be trained in Oman to spread the word about road safety, it has been revealed.Under the initiative “Be Street Smart”, selected youth will become Road Safety Educators, who can share knowledge and information about good driving practices.The Sultanate has the worst record for road accidents in the GCC, with more than 6,000 incidences recorded last year alone.The new road safey “ambassadors” will hold regular workshops in colleges and universities in Muscat and other Governorates in a bid to change driver habits from a young age.“Be Street Smart” is a link-up with Oman Road Safety Association (ORSA) and Oman Oil Company (OOC) with support from AIESEC in Oman.It is hoped the project will reach up to 1,200 young people in Oman over the year.

YOUTH ROAD ADVICE

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G A L L E R Y

It appears to be that possessing the world’s tallest building as well as an indoor ski slope is just not quite good enough for Dubai.

Introducing to you the Mall of the World, which the emirate is preparing to build under a glass dome as part of a temperature-controlled city. At eight million square feet, the mall would be the largest on the planet, in a project that could arguably be described as one of the most outlandish – if not the most – to exist.

The mall will be connected to about a 100 hotels and serviced apartments via street networks that would be presented as the first “temperature-controlled city” in the world. The entire area will be enclosed in a glass dome that will be opened up in the winter months when the temperatures are a lot cooler. Among other attractions to the site would be the world’s largest indoor theme park as well as a wellness district sprawling over three million square feet to attract more medical tourism.

A cultural and theatre district, replicating similar attributes from world-famous places such as New York’s Broadway, will be added.

With seven kilometres of shop-lined streets, the entire estate would cover a gigantic 48 million square feet, taking Dubai’s shopping and recreational experience to another level.

“We announced recently that we plan to transform

Dubai into a cultural, tourist and economic hub for the two billion people living in the region around us; and we are determined to achieve our vision,” said Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

“Our ambitions are higher than having seasonal tourism. Tourism is a key driver of our economy, and we aim to make the UAE an attractive destination all year long. This is why we will start working on providing pleasant temperature-controlled environments during the summer months.”

No details about when the project would start or finish have been disclosed. Nor have details of the cost – expected to be astronomical – been revealed.

Such megaprojects have seemingly re-emerged after the economic revival of Dubai post the 2008 global financial crisis and are aimed at reviving investment opportunities in the emirate.

Whether or not Mall of the World and the domed cooled city ever actually come to fruition is another matter.

In 2008, Dubai announced plans for the world’s first air-conditioned beach with refrigerated sand at the proposed Palazzo Versace Hotel. The beach never materialised and the hotel has yet to open.

There was also talk of a roller coaster on top of the Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai as part of a skyscraper development at one time, but it never happened.

IT’S A MALL – BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT Words: Siddharth Seshan

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

UAe PReSIdeNT ‘fINe’

If you’ve just got your hands on a new iPhone 5, be prepared to start thinking about upgrading it.

You may have only recently bought your iPhone 5, but it is likely to be out of date within months because the release of the sixth

generation of the smartphone is just round the corner. It is believed that the iPhone 6 will be unveiled on September 15 and

hit stores 10 days later in selected countries. The iPhone 5S and 5C were revealed at the same time last year.

It has been suggested that the iPhone 6 will, in fact, be called the iPhone Air, joining the family of “Air” products that Apple has introduced in the past, such as the MacBook Air and, more recently, the iPad Air.

Rumours swirling about on the internet suggest the new iPhone will be thinner and have a much larger screen than the current model. According to reports, there will be two versions with screen sizes of 4.7 inches and 5.5in. The iPhone 5 is smaller, with a 4in screen.

There is speculation that the new iPhone will sport curved edges, as opposed to the rounded edges of the previous models, making the phone a lot slimmer. Rumours also claim that the front camera has been moved to the left side of the caller speaker.

The latest reports have indicated that the 4.7in screen will cost about US$850 (RO327) and the bigger screen about US$965 (RO371).

But who knows when the iPhone Air might appear in stores in Oman. If it is showcased in September, then it could be here by the end of the year.

G E T R E A DY F O R I P H O N E 6 Words: Siddharth Seshan

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi has made a public statement stating that rumours about the health of the UAE President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan, are untrue.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan took the extraordinary step this week after information began circulating on social media sites in the UAE last weekend calling for people to pray for the President, who has not been seen publicly since suffering a stroke earlier this year.

The Crown Prince was quoted by state news agency WAM as saying that news on social media sites about the President’s health were “mere rumours” and Sheikh Khalifa’s health was “fine”.

Sheikh Khalifa had emergency surgery after a stroke in January. Little is known about the 66-year-old’s condition, which Sheikh Mohammed called “stable and reassuring” in February.

Sheikh Khalifa became President of the UAE in 2004, succeeding his father Sheikh Zayed after his death. Next in line to succeed him is Sheikh Mohammed, his half-brother.

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R A M A D A N N I G H T S THE RECENTLY COMPLETED MOHAMMED AL AMEEN MOSqUE IN BAWSHAR MAKES FOR A SPECTACULAR SIGHT IN THE EvENING

G A L L E R Y

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THE POWER OF FEW With a cast including Christopher Walken and Christian Slater, five interwoven stories unfold in New Orleans in this multi-strand drama that takes inspiration from the works of Quentin Tarantino. One story has a teenage boy trying to get medicine for his baby brother, another has a prison fugitive falling for a girl while on the run. Slater leads a team of plainclothes cops searching the neighbourhood, while Walken is a homeless visionary who may be crazy or a prophet.

Bollywatch

Tai Chi hero

After halting the plan of a European railroad company to tear down the Chen village in the first film, Lu Chan (Daniel Wu) returns for this steam-punk martial arts sequel. He is now married to the beautiful daughter of Grandmaster Chen, but in reality she becomes his tai chi teacher in the battle against new enemies. While the first film centred on an assault by an evil East India Company Brit using a giant cannon, this time the climax is a satisfying one-on-one showdown between Lu Chan and a kung fu master. It’s a hyperactive but absorbing piece of historical action.

Draft Day

MOVIES MOVIES

born to fight

If you were getting roughed up at school, the one guy you would want on your team would be WWF’s “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Private school mummy’s boy Daniel Madger is the new pupil at a public school when he moves to town with his mum, but the school bully is making his life hell. Enter Austin as a retired boxing coach turned school janitor who sees him being picked on and suggests he learns how to box. Austin does well for a non-actor in the mentor role, although Madger’s progress as a pugilist is hard to believe, but that’s the Hollywood treatment for you. It’s an old story and has been seen dozens of times over as many years. While it is predictable, it is still an uplifting take on the Karate Kid formula that sees the underdog fighting back – and, of course, eventually winning.

BOBBY JASOOS Her parents want her to settle down, but Vidya Balan’s Bobby has big plans to be a famous private detective. She’s on domestic cases until a mysterious millionaire asks her to find some missing girls. The first half of Bobby Jasoos builds up nicely as Balan dons various disguises – including that of a beggar and an astrologer – and shows what a girl can do to break the traditional

mould. Director Samar Shaikh uses real locations in Hyderabad and gives us an authentic flavour of the city, although the second half can’t quite live up to the promise of the first.

Had enough of the World Cup? Try this all-American football drama, with Kevin Costner playing the general manager of the Cleveland Browns on the all-important draft day. Apparently this is the most important event in the U.S football calendar, when new talent is picked and big deals are made in a huge televised event in New York City. Costner’s Sonny Weaver Jr has a much younger girlfriend in Jennifer Garner, who also happens to be the team’s lawyer and number cruncher, while his mum, Ellen Burstyn, wants Sonny to settle his dad’s will.

The love interest seems like a bit of a sideshow to the main action, which is pulling together the best team from new and existing players in the space of a chaotic 24 hours. Draft Day is one in a long line of sports-themed movies starring Costner, from Field of Dreams to Bull Durham and, as you might expect, nothing really terrible happens. This time, the action is mostly on the phone rather than the pitch. As for all that real-world stuff, it hardly gets a look in – after all, this is a Kevin Costner feel-good movie.

Review by Joe Gill

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QARANQASHOW TIME A special fun evening dedicated to children and hosted by Bait Al Zubair, Qaranqashow is returning for another year. There will be singing, music, sweets and much more at this popular event on the Ramadan calendar. More than 2,000 children are expected to attend. Contact 2473 6688 or www.baitalzubairmuseum.com

If you’re into cars and speed, then head to the Oman Automobile Association for the second Ramadan Motorsports Festival. Thousands of enthusiasts from Oman and GCC countries will take part in events at four arenas and this week will see Rally Super Special and the first round of the gruelling three-hour SWS Karting Endurance Race. All the action starts at 9pm and will go on until 2am. Should be thrilling for spectators. www.facebook.com/omanautomobileassociation or call +968 99016593 for details.

THIS WEEK

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE.

WHAT TO HEAR.

J U L Y

July

12

July

10

CALLING YOUNG COOKS If you’re a budding star in the kitchen or a Gordon Ramsay in the making, there’s still time to enter Junior Master Chef. Held in association with Dar Al Atta’a, the culinary competition is open to two age groups, eight to 12 and 13 to 19. Just send in a recipe of a main course and dessert to the judges. Chosen chefs will cook live at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa on July 11. To enter, email your recipes and application to fbreservation.slmu@Shangri-La.com. Follow @handinhandoman and @daralatta or Instagram shangrilamuscat.

11 JULY

Hot WHeeLs

Get your credit cards ready for the Family Shopping Exhibition at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. Everything from jewellery to gifts will be on sale, with lots to browse. Runs until August 3, so there’s plenty of time to find some treats for all the family and yourself, of course. More info www.omanexhibitions.com

11+

Retail Therapy

28 JULy

Retail Therapy

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THIS MONTH IS ALL ABOUT ShARING AND GIvING TO OTHERS. Y LOOKS AT WHAT THE PEOPLE OF OMAN ARE

DOING IN ACTS Of KINDNESS AND COMPASSION

Spreading

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The LoveReport: Kate GinnPhotographs: Jerzy Wierzbicki

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The look on the face of Ahmed al Rais Rouf said it all. Different expressions, from disbelief to uncertainty, had flittered across his features as he tried to take in the words that were being spoken to him. And then realisation came, and a shy smile of joy spread across

his face.His reticence is understandable. It’s not every day that complete

strangers come up to you and announce that they were about to give you a gift.

The “gift of happiness” is what DHL, the global freight company, called it.

Ahmed just saw it as a moment in his life when somebody reached out to offer help to him and his family, as wonderful as it was unexpected for the 34-year-old father of four from a remote village near Lucknow, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

A few minutes earlier, the construction worker had been sheltering from the harsh Omani sun with friends waiting for the bus to ferry them back to their labour camp in Barka for the midday break.

He had no idea that he was about to be randomly chosen by DHL in Oman to be the recipient of the logistic company’s Ramadan initiative.

As Ahmed stood, hot and sweaty in blue overalls, he was told that DHL would take him shopping to buy presents for his family and ship them to India.

“Thank you. I am so happy,” he said quietly, still unable to quite take it all in.

Similar scenes of generosity are being played out across the Sultanate during the Holy Month by corporations, companies and individuals, all motivated by the wish to give back and support those less fortunate in the community.

Ahmed, who works as a roofer on new building construction, has been in Oman for two-and-half years. He left behind his wife and children – three daughters and a son.

“I had to leave home to find work,” Ahmed told us. “We were very poor. Sometimes, there was not enough money for food. It was hard to survive.”

Like thousands of other young Indian men, he travelled to the Gulf for a better life for his family, although it inevitably meant separation from those he loves for years at a time.

He last saw his family six months ago and it will be another 18 months before they set eyes on each other again. They speak on the phone every Friday.

“My kids ask, ‘Where are you daddy? When are you coming home?’

“It is hard, but what can I do?” he shrugs.Every month, he sends home RO60 for his family to live on

(almost all his salary), RO10 of which pays for his children, the oldest of whom is 12 and the youngest 18 months, to go to school. An extended family of 16, including uncles and a sister, also rely on him financially. It’s a heavy burden.

You can imagine, then, the elation of being given such a gift by DHL. With staff from the company’s head office in Oman, Ahmed was escorted around City Centre Muscat to buy clothes for his family and himself. There was a blouse for his wife, Gela, and Hello Kitty tops for the girls, along with jeans for his little boy. The till rang up RO150, the stuff of dreams for a labourer who earns just RO80 a month (plus RO20 food allowance). Outside the shop, Ahmed proudly carried the bags bulging with presents for his family.

“I am very happy,” he said simply. “When I went back to India, I couldn’t take the children

anything because I didn’t have enough money. I had to go home without any gifts for them.

“I know they will be so happy when the presents arrive. There will be an explosion of happiness in my house.”

The parcel is on its way to India with DHL. It should be arriving as you read this; the children excitedly opening the box. More than 2,000 kilometres away in Oman, their daddy will be smiling.

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THE VIDEO HAS ALREADY GONE vIRAL AND NOW y REvEALS THE FULL STORY BEHIND THE INCREDIBLE ‘COLORS OF HAPPINESS’ JOTUN PAINTS STORY

The dingy house, with crumbling walls and bare floors, was home to a family of five. Open sewer

drains and ceilings on the verge of collapse were just part of everyday life for the husband and wife and four children, one of whom is in a wheelchair.

All six of them lived in four rooms, each one as threadbare as the other.

From the windows of their little house, in the shadow of sand dunes and mountain peaks in Bawshar, the family looked out on to immaculate whitewashed villas, where people lived a world away from their own existence.

Life, however, was about to change.

In an extreme makeover never before seen in Oman, a team from Jotun Paints set about turning the house into a home. It needed more than just a coat of paint. A complete refurbishment, from plastering to furniture, was required as the task turned into a mammoth project that would stretch everyone involved.

It took 15 days and the result was astonishing.

A YouTube video called “Colors of Happiness” showing the whole corporate responsibility initiative from start to finish has attracted more than 83,000 views. Y’s exclusive photographs reveal just how incredible the whole journey was.

“It was very emotional for everyone involved,” says Mahira Saqib, assistant marketing manager with Jotun Paints.

“Our dream was to make this a home for the family not just a house.”

The family, who have asked not to be named, were chosen with the help of the Bawshar Charitable Association, who help out the underprivileged in the area.

“We saw a lot of families, but this one really struck us as desperately needing our help,” says Mahira.

“The house was a disaster. The ceilings were falling down and when

it rained, the rooms used to be filled with water. The drainage was in the open air and the walls and floors were cracked and broken.”

While the family was accommodated temporarily in a hotel apartment, the team from Jotun set to work.

Apart from the father, the rest of the family had no idea what was happening in their absence. Reliant on just one income – the father works as a guard at a college – times are hard. Their eldest son died recently after being hit by a car and another son is disabled, needing special care.

The team from Jotun Paints was up against the clock. “We wanted everything to be finished in time for Ramadan,” says Mahira, “and we wanted to give them a permanent solution, not just a temporary fix.”

What the team achieved in just over two weeks was incredible, particularly given the scale of the challenge. Staff came from behind their desks in accounts, marketing and human resources to volunteer their time, helped by a few professionals.

During the makeover, some of the Jotun employees even slept on site so that every second could count.

All the hard work and effort was worth it to see the faces of the family as they returned back to their home. The smiles and eyes widening in disbelief say more than a thousands words ever could.

“It still gives me goose bumps thinking about it,” says Mahira. “They were so happy and grateful. They are a very humble family.

“We wanted to tell everyone about this because if more than one family was taken care by more than one company, the happiness would spread.

“If we all do a little, we can do a lot.”

* To see more photos go to /ytabloid

* To view the “Colors of Happiness” video, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfzPE8C3lAc

Rep

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Kat

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Before After

Before

Before Before

After The team at work

After After

The team arrives

ExtremeMakeover

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ACROSS THE COUNTRY, GOOD DEEDS ARE BEING CARRIED OUT BEhIND ThE SCENES AS PEOPLE SHOW HOW MUCH THEY CARE

ABOUT ThOSE IN NEED

In one of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, The Wave, Muscat, has started distributing dates harvested from the waterfront community’s 1,200 fruit-bearing palm trees to low-income families. The Annual Date Donation Drive, now in its third year, is run in partnership with charitable organisation Dar Al Atta’a and is being supported by volunteers from The Wave.“As a responsible project, The Wave, Muscat, is proud to be supporting such an initiative during the month of giving and demonstrating how community welfare and business success are truly inseparable,” said Hafidh bin Nasser al Maskary, corporate communications manager at The Wave, Muscat.“During this time, it is important to remember people in need and by combining our efforts with The Wave, Muscat to make a difference, we are able to inspire others to follow suit and give back to the community,” said Maryam Al Zadjali, chairwoman of Dar Al Atta’a.

As part of outreach initiatives lined up during Ramadan, the Khimji Ramdas Group has been distributing food supplies to the Al Noor Association for the Blind.“Ramadan is always the time to renew and strengthen ties with both the family and

the community; we are pleased to share this blessed time with our extended families in the Omani society,” said Anil Khimji, director at Khimji Ramdas.More than 200 members of the Al Noor Association for the Blind in Sohar receive daily staples such as rice, cooking oil, canned fruits and juices.An NGO that represents the interests of the blind and visually impaired community in Oman, Al Noor Association for the Blind provides support services in various areas of development – social and vocational – enabling its members to lead normal, independent lives.

More than 2,200 food hampers have been given to low income families around the country by HSBC Bank Oman S.A.O.G.Dates, powered milk, sugar, rice and other items consumed throughout the Holy Month were handed out.Employees from different branches helped the philanthropic initiative by lending a hand with distribution, in collaboration with NGOs in each region.Andrew Long, chief executive officer for HSBC Bank Oman, said: “We always ensure that our staff feel empowered to do the right thing in and out of work, engaging in public projects and offering their time for the greater good of the communities they serve. This Ramadan initiative has now become a staple event in our annual corporate social responsibility calendar that allows us to draw a smile on many families’ faces and we continue to see more staff participate in this effort year on year, which further reinforces our commitment to Oman and its people.”Later on in Ramadan, HSBC Bank Oman volunteers will once again be hosting a group of children from the Oman Child Care Centre for Iftar.Across the HSBC Group, every employee is entitled to take at least one day off a year to take part in voluntary activities. Last year, employees volunteered for 409,911 hours of their own time in activities supported by HSBC, translating into 255,925 hours of work time.

The 10th Nawras Goodwill Journey began this week with the first team of 18 volunteers leaving Muscat to make a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of Omanis.Nawras staff waved off the convoy as it headed north on the first leg. The volunteers will be stopping in Qurum first, followed by Mussanah and Sohar before driving to Khasab in the northern-most enclave of the Sultanate. They are due back in Muscat, via Buraimi and Ad Dakhiliyah, today (July 10).This year’s theme is “Digital and Family”.“The Nawras Goodwill Journey has been the cornerstone of our community projects for a decade now and in that time, we have touched thousands of lives and given new opportunities to hundreds of people across the country,” said Said Safrar, chief customer experience officer at Nawras.Over the next two weeks, fasting Nawras volunteers will visit charitable organisations and branches of the Omani Women’s Association across the Sultanate to donate the latest technology, household items, electrical appliances and children’s gifts and toys during Ramadan.

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The spirit of RamadanSamsung galaxy Tab 4 winner

ARE YOU A WINNER OF ONE OF OUR FANTASTIC GIVEAWAYS CELEBRATING THE HOLY MONTH?

Y was inundated with a raft of entries this week for our selfie competition to win a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4. It was a difficult choice, but congratulations to Muntashir Razzak, who took a great shot of himself in front of the majestic Golden Horses of Wadi Al Kabir, which you see on your way to Al Bustan. His caption was also impressive: “The Prancing Horses of FERRARI? Nope! AL BUSTAN-ERRI!”You will be happy to hear that Y is giving away another Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 next week, so don’t forget to enter!

BEST OF THE RESTHere are a selection of selfies taken by Y readers that didn’t win, but impressed our judges. Is your photo here?

Winner

Ann Catherine and friends at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat

Rodney Woods at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Boy Correia, aged eight, at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Danish Kapadia at home in Muscat

Avinash Raghavendra at Jebel al Sifah beachPaul Vincent with the dolphin statue on Muttrah Corniche

Vijayalakshmi Shetty at Al Araimi Complex, Qurum

Janice D’Cruz in Qurum Gardens Ronak Bhatt at poolside of the Al Nahda Resort & Spa Mohammed Mosin with friends in Muscat

Yameen Rawat near Al Alam Palace in Muscat

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65C 5M 28Y 0K Pantone 3262C

0C 30M 100Y 10K Pantone 144C

The spirit of RamadanARE YOU A WINNER OF ONE OF OUR FANTASTIC GIVEAWAYS CELEBRATING THE HOLY MONTH?

Cake Gallery is giving away a RO10 voucher to spend at its new Mawaleh café and bakery. To win, all you have to do is answer the following question: “What kind of cheese is used in the making of Tiramisu?” Send your answer, with your contact details, to editor@y-oman.com by July 14.

The Grand Hyatt Muscat is this week giving away an Iftar for two at either Sirj Lounge, Mokha Café or Majan Lounge. To enter, post your best iftar food picture on our social-media sites while you are dining at the Grand Hyatt Muscat. Send your entries by July 14 to editor@y-oman.com, or post your entry on our Facebook or Twitter pages or send us a picture on Instagram, but make sure you follow and tag ytabloid.

Last week’s winners

Congratulations to the following

winners!

shangri-La Barr aL Jissah resort &

spa iftar: rosie spencer, with the correct answer of Chi.

Dr Brown’s gift set: abhilash thomas, surbhie

raval, ida nazareth, ali Babar and alvita hildegard Dias, all of whom said that babies are born with 300

bones.

Cake gaLLery: Dynet fernandes, who

correctly answered that the pavlova originated

from new Zealand.

WINNERS B • O • x

Dr Brown’s baby bottles

Celebrate IftarShort and sweet

There are five more gift sets up grabs from Dr Brown’s. To win, answer the following question: “What is the record for the most children born by one woman?” Send your answer, with contact details, to editor@y-oman.com by July 14. Terms & conditions apply. Please visit our website for full details.

Grand Hyatt Muscat

Well done Reehan Hoossein, who won for their creative treatment of the Iftar being served

at the hotel’s Sirj Lounge. Reehan wins a fantastic

one-night weekend stay for two people, including Iftar at Sirj Lounge, which is valid

during Ramadan.

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

FOOTBAll FEVER TO THE VERY ENDFOOTBAll FEVER TO THE VERY END

The World Cup so

far

THE WORLD CUP HAS SERVED UP A FEAST OF FOOTBALL FOR FANS AROUND THE WORLD, BUT MAY THE BEST TEAM WIN, SAYS, DEEBA HASAN

We are just a few days away from the climax of the Greatest Show on Earth. And as

the final match of the World Cup approaches, fans are crossing their fingers hoping that their team will be champions of this glorious tournament that has kept millions glued to their TV screens across the world, regardless of colour, race or gender.

The heat is rising by the day and pressure is mounting.

The four quarter-final matches made for riveting watching. A penalty shoot-out was an unexpected spectacle in the Netherlands and Costa Rica match, as everyone expected the mighty Netherlands to dance their way past the unfancied but quite brilliant Costa Ricans without much effort. In spite of hard work from both teams, the match ended goalless, and, as we all now know, it was Netherlands who made their way into the semi-finals with the help of their penalty takers – and a substitute goalkeeper.

Less of a surprise was Germany beating France, although only a single goal scored by Mats Hummels separated the sides. France’s star striker Karim Benzema did try his best to be fair but his efforts couldn’t be converted into a goal.

And so it was Germany who had the honour of being the first team into the semi-finals.

The second quarter-final between Brazil and Colombia had millions on the edge of their seats. But it was Brazil, the competition favourites, who came out on top by a single goal, 2-1.

The heroes for Brazil were two centre backs, Thiago Silva and David Luiz, who each scored to send home a jubilant Brazilian crowd to party the night away. James Rodriguez’s penalty did give Colombia a glimmer of hope, but that’s all it was, a glimmer. Alas for Brazil, it didn’t all go to plan. Their

talisman and poster boy, Neymar, was left rolling in agony and out of the World Cup with a broken bone in his back. Heartbreaking.

Argentina versus Belgium turned out to be a bit of a boring affair after all that drama. Fans of both teams endured a torried emotional night. Gonzalo Higuian came to the rescue of Argentina, scoring the only goal of the match to take Messi & Co into the semi-finals.

The underdogs of this tournament had shone but eventually they were outclassed by the cream of Germany, Brazil, Argentina and the Netherlands. Overall, the quarter-final results turned out to be as expected and did not follow the pattern of the tournament up until then, which had some exciting last-minute surprises.

As Y Magazine goes to press before the semis on Wednesday, we will not be able to recount the action from these or from the final in Rio de Janerio on Sunday (13) but we can certainly speculate as to what might happen.

I am sort of wishing for an all European final, but, to be honest, it wouldn’t upset me too much if one of the South American teams reached the last two.

The team I am hoping will be crowned world champions, however, is Germany. I think they have put on some fabulous performances, intermingled with a fair sprinkling of good luck throughout the tournament. Hopefully, their luck will continue all the way to the end of the final. As they say in Germany: “Sehr viel gluck, Deutschland” or “very good luck, Germany.”

No matter who plays in the final, let’s hope that “the battle for the best” will be a real treat for football fans the world over.

From Team Y, we hope you all have a fabulous time watching the conclusion of the Greatest Show on Earth and, of course, may the best team win.

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The FIFA World Cup 2014 has been by far one of the most spectacular World Cups we have seen in the past few decades.

With a staggering 159 goals being scored as Y went to press, the tally has surpassed the 145 scored in the previous tournament and the 161 in the 2002 World Cup.

The drama that has unfolded in the land of football has been no stranger to mind-boggling goals with a very high standard of play, not to forget the mesmerising atmosphere created by the Brazilians. This tournament has witnessed a number of upsets from so-called underdog teams, which left professional football pundits, as well as self proclaimed ones such as myself, with a spinning head. Among these underdogs, the team in my opinion that really etched a mark in international football and won many hearts with their determined performances were the golden boys of Costa Rica.

Before the tournament, Costa Rica were seen as the weak link in the so-called “Group of Death”. Up against England, Uruguay and Italy in Group D, Los Ticos, ranked 28th in the world by FIFA, were predicted for an early exit, needing to outperform three of the teams ranked in the world top 10.

However, the Costa Ricans had other ideas, on a mission to prove the world wrong. With the stupendous support of their fans and country, the little Latin American republic stunned everyone by finishing first in the group, beating Uruguay and Italy in successive games and drawing with England. Who would have predicted that it would be England and Italy heading home out of those four?

Costa Rica had reached the last 16 and only the resilient Greeks – with a reputation for creating last-minute goals and altering destiny in their favour – stood in their way of a quarter-final place. With such a tight matchup, the game could have gone either way and went to a nail-biting penalty shoot-out. Costa Rica held their nerve with their star goalkeeper Keylor Navas leading from the

front with sensational saves to put the team into their first World Cup quarter-final, much to the delight of the football-mad nation.

The team and their beloved fans had tears in their eyes as Los Ticos made history.

But they were not done, as they faced the mighty Netherlands hoping against all the odds for yet another miracle to enter the final four. The “Ticos” were fighting for their survival in the tournament. And fight they did. The Dutch seemed to have the upper hand for the most of the game but were met by a white, red and blue wall of resistance. It was down to penalties to divide the teams.

Costa Rica’s luck was about to run out and the Netherlands broke their hearts, but not their spirits.

It was the end of an incredible journey for the Costa Ricans but they could leave with their heads held high, knowing that they had done themselves and their country proud.

In my eyes, the performance by the Costa Ricans was one of the most special moments of the World Cup and one that created big ripples on the international football platform. Their commitment for their country showed the world that the battle for the prestigious World Cup trophy is not just reserved for the bigger teams. Smaller sides can dream too.

* My Prediction to lift the World Cup: Germany. they are the strongest team, tactically and talent wise, as an all-round unit. they are very methodical in their play. They will reach the finals for sure and should win it.

Y INTERN SIDDHARTH SESHAN REVEALS WHO HAS BEEN HIS STANDOUT TEAM OF THE TOURNAMENT

I t’s the end of the dream for Los Ticos, aka Costa Rica - out of THE World Cup without a single loss.

The team who defeated both Uruguay and Italy and drew with England were so close to beating the

Netherlands too only for the “Orange” to come out on top in a penalty shootout.

The World Cup was returned to the big teams - that’s the way it is. Things haven’t changed since 1930: only the big boys reach as far as the semi-finals.

But it was the little teams who Omanis got behind - Algeria and Costa Rica. Algerians are our brothers - there is a lot of history between us - so it was quite right that we supported them. Costa Rica attracted us in Brazil 2014 because they are a small ambitious team with no big names - the same as our national team.

Why could they not turn the dream into a reality? There are about 4.8 million people in Costa Rica,

similar to the population here in Oman, but they are ranked 28th in the world while we are 79th.

It’s all about planning and creating a long-term football strategy. I looked up the budget for “Los Ticos” to prepare their national team for the World Cup and I discovered that they spent only 2 million Euros (RO524,000), meanwhile we spent much more but are still searching for our first Copa Du Mundo finals.

It does not matter how much you spend, nor does it matter how many talented and gifted players you have. It’s all about what you believe in.

Back home, my nephew still analyses the competition saying: “Brazil will win the World Cup, even without Neymar. It’s in their homeland and they deserve it this time.”

Unfortunately, this issue of Y will be published before the semi-final results are known, so there is no chance for my nephew to change his mind, and that’s put him under pressure, as his cousins are waiting for their chance to appear in my articles as “match predictors”.

On Sunday, the journey of the FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014 will end, and one team will be champions. My nephew believes in “Hexa Campeonato”, as the say in Portuguese, for the sixth star on the “Seleçao” new jersey.

He could be over optimistic, but he translates and expresses the thoughts of all the locals.

It’s Germany to lift the World Cup, says our puss

Y ’s feline soothsayer, Poochy, is back to pet punditry duty after a little

cat nap. Our psychic moggy been busy during the break, checking out team stats and sharpening her claws for the final test.

After a month of drama, tears and goals, it all comes down to a final 90 minutes of play between two teams.

By now, we will know who has triumphed in the semi-finals and which nations have battled through to the last stage. There is one hurdle left to glory but who will make it and see their ribbons tied to the cup?

Could it be Germany, the Netherlands, the hosts Brazil or South American neighbours Argentina?

Our furry clairvoyant didn’t rush, this is a serious matter, and there’s her reputation to think off. Her whiskers quivered. And then, like the veteran German striker Miroslav Klose, she went straight for goal like a heat-seeking missile and plonked herself on his country’s envelope. Germany to win. Poochy had spoken.

Over to you now Klose.

My World Cup MoMenT

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

SALUTE FOOTBALL’S MINNOWS, SAYS KOOOORA MAGAzINE’S FAHAD AL TAMIMI

los Ticos- an unexpected journey

no More CosTa riCa … no More sMall TeaMs

T he FIFA World Cup 2014 has been full of pleasant surprises and a never ending stream of happy moments. Well, here is another inspiring story. For

the first time in a World Cup, audio systems were set up at the stadiums to provide a special service to fans who are blind or visually impaired. This was done by FIFA in collaboration with a local Brazilian non-governmental group, Urece. The specially trained commentators were taught the art of commentary and told to be extremely descriptive. The commentators diligently described the proceedings of the game, from the movement of the ball, to facial expressions of the players and the colour of their boots. The blind fans, who wore headphones during the games for running commentary, are apparently extremely pleased with the service, claiming it is far better than the the radio. It brought the games to life. Coupled with sitting in the stands of the stadium and being part of the electrifying atmosphere, the visually impaired fans have had the opportunity to actually know what is going on in the game, letting them join the rest of the crowd in sharing their cheers or sorrows.

Blind supporters

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Remember when kale was all the rage and every health nut worth their salt was going ga-ga over goji berries? You may recall the time when

blueberries had their time in the spotlight, or even acai berries and black garlic, just to name a few.

And who can forget wheatgrass shots and oxygen bars? They are so, like, 1990s.

It seems that each year, there’s a new list of fad superfoods that have foodies the world over rushing out to buy. Of course, they all promise a range of health benefits, such as reducing the risk of cancer, boosting your immune system, increasing heart health, brainpower and just general good well-being.

This year’s line-up of superfoods is just as wacky as the previous year. And the one before that (if you can remember it).

But at the heart of each year’s list is that they all have a shelf life similar to next season’s catwalk trends. Once you see them on the High Street, they’re out and a new superfood is “suddenly” discovered, one that is difficult to find and inevitably sees a celebrity chef rolled out to create newfangled recipe for it.

But we’ll let you be the judge of this year’s list.

Salsify: Thanks to MasterChef, I had heard of salsify before. But I didn’t know this high-fibre root vegetable could help you to maintain healthy weight levels, or at least that’s what the experts say.

Beluga lentils: Beluga what? Are they related to the Beluga whale? No, they are part of the lentil family, but are black in colour, which could explains the connection. Rich in

anthocyanins, they are believed to help a range of health problems, such as inflammation, heart disease and cancer. According to the experts, the darker the colour, the more beneficial it is.

Sesame seeds: The only surprise here is that it took the experts so long to add it to a superfood list. Rich with essential minerals, nutritionists say eating sesame seeds can help stress, hypertension and cholesterol. Tahini, anyone?

Shichimi togarashi: A spice blend from Japan that features the likes of orange peel, chilli powder, seaweed and black and white sesame seeds. The Japanese have been using it for years to spice up all manner of dishes as it is rich in anti-oxidents, helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Coffee: One year it’s good for you, the next it can play havoc on your health. Coffee has had its fair share of ups and downs over the years, but it seems that it’s found favour again. This year, it has been ruled that a moderate intake of java can help a range of health issues, such as diabetes and liver disease, and can even boost heart health.

Teff: No superfood list would be complete with out the odd addition and teff, a gluten-free grain that is used as flour, takes this year’s prize. It is believed that its health boosting properties can help the maintenance of blood sugar levels and weight, not to mention being good for your colon.

Avocado oil: One of the few good oils available commercially, it is high in lecithin, vitamins and protein. The experts believe avocado oil can lower cholesterol, the risk of

Supercharged, Super healthyFORGET KALE, QUINOA AND SPIRULINA. THEY’VE BEEN SUPERSEDED BY A NEW LIST Of ‘IN’ fOODS THAT PROMISE TO TAKE YOUR HEALTH TO A

WHOLE NEW LEVEL, WRITES FELICITY GLOVER

ZA’ATAR PITA ChIPS WITh YOgURT dIP ingredients

• 4 tbsp za’atar • 5 tbsp olive oil

• 2 large pitas or flatbread • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp mint, chopped • 1 small garlic clove, grated or minced

• 1/8 tsp salt

MethodPreheat oven to 180°C. Combine za’atar

and olive oil in a small bowl to form a paste. Cut one pita open around the edge to create two rounds. Repeat with remaining pita. Place pita rounds on a baking sheet.

Spread za’atar mixture over rough sides of pita rounds using the back of a spoon. Bake until edges are golden, about five to seven

minutes. Allow to cool slightly and cut into wedges. Combine yogurt, mint, garlic and

salt. Serve with pita chips. Source: www.thekitchn.com

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

DRINKAND T R E N D

heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Canary seeds: So this one’s for the birds –

and should probably remain that way. If you are tempted, it is gluten-free and protein rich. But don’t forget that humans need to buy the de-hulled kind, as opposed to the ones preferred by our feathered friends.

Beet juice: I’m not sure about beet juice. In fact, I’d argue that fresh beets taste better roasted – and would have the same effect as the juiced-up version. Apparently, though, the antioxidant powers found in beet juice can boost brainpower and energy, while also lowering blood pressure.

Za’atar: Yep, za’atar, a traditional spice blend from the Middle East that contains a range of herbs, such as thyme, salt, sesame seeds and sumac, has made it on to this year’s list of superfoods. Clearly, this is not new for the region, more so as it is believed to have been used since ancient Egyptian times. But here’s what you may not have known: experts claim that za’atar can reduce the risk of food poisoning. Source: Mama Natural

Salsify

J U LY 1 0 - 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 80 3 0

It was my first Iftar invitation of the Holy Month and I have to say that I was looking forward to it – more so as

there was a small group of us going and we didn’t have to worry about anybody’s eating preferences. The beauty of the buffet, so to speak.

And so it was at the Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel’s Iftar buffet at Mokha Café on the first night of Ramadan. Sure, we were a small group, but our tastes were as divergent as our personalities: one vegetable-shy child, another who doesn’t eat red meat and a third who is a self-confessed carnivore.

Because it was the first evening of Ramadan, it was a quiet night. There were a few tables occupied, but for us, that meant the best table in the house: a Ramadan tent.

One of the standouts for Mokha Café in a sea of hotel Iftar buffets around the city this year would have to be its Ramadan tents. There are only two – connected to the doors of the café but on the terrace – which gives them a certain air of exclusivity, a private place to entertain your Iftar guests. They are fabulous for groups of eight to 10, not to mention an easy way to impress your guests if you are playing mine-host.

Decked out in a restrained Arabic style, the tents are on a first come, first serve basis – so make sure you book one as we move deeper into the Holy Month, when it will become busier and the crowds will deepen at the groaning buffet tables. Best of

all, they are free. But back to the

food. As we sank into the comfortable sofas, we were served traditional local dates, dried fruit and refreshing laban – a simple and delicious way to start the meal.

But the star of the show is the buffet. The only problem is avoiding the temptation of eating

too much too early. The choice of starters ranged from traditional Arabic delights to ones with a more international flair. Think hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, deep-fried Arabic pastries stuffed with cheese or meat, cabbage dolmas and their vine leaf cousins and a variety of salads.

It was here that I stumbled on one of my favourite dishes of the night: a spiced pumpkin salad that

exploded with an earthy flavour and freshness, while my dining companions loved the big cubes of feta with herbs and creamy hummus with soft Arabic

flat bread. For our mains, Miss 11 was

in seventh heaven after discovering that she could – yet again – indulge in her favourite dish of mac ‘n’ cheese. Served with lamb, the meaty twist enhanced the flavour – and sent her scurrying back to the spread for another helping. The Hyatt chef ’s take on Arabic pizza was also a hit. Flat bread stuffed with cheese, tomato and seasonings and cooked to melted perfection, this also demanded a second helping.

Our carnivore friend declared the lamb – served on a bed of cashew nut rice – tender, juicy and delicious, while the other grilled meats were

also done to perfection: lamb chops, tender steak and tandoori chicken.

My choice of rice with vermicelli, tandoori chicken, salad and falafel was light and flavoursome – and just the ticket for a light eater.

The standout sweet was the Mahalabiya, a traditional milk pudding made with a corn-flour base and infused with rose water.

Miss 11 announced that the chocolate mousse was “scrumptious, light and fluffy”, while my fruit cocktail, soaked in orange juice, was a melodic balance of sweet, tart and texture that featured the likes of blackberries, raspberries and crunchy apple pieces.

It has to be said that dining in the comfort and privacy of the Ramadan tent enhanced our dining experience – and we will do our best to return for at least one more Iftar at Mokha Café before the end of the Holy Month.

verdict:

Great mix of modern and traditional

choices

8 10

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

DRINKAND R E V I E W S

Info BoxMOkHA CAfé

Grand Hyatt Muscat hotel Shatti Al Qurm Tel: 2464 1234

Email: muscat.dining.hyatt.com Timings: 7pm-11.30pm

Buffet for two adults, one child with beverages and taxes RO63.2.

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

Beauty of the buffetTHE GRAND HYATT’S IfTAR BUffET IS A GREAT CHOICE FOR THOSE BREAKING ThEIR fAST WITH A GROUP OF FRIENDS OR FAMILY, WRITES FELICITY GLOVER

J U LY 0 3 - 0 9 / I S S U E 3 2 70 3 2

HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

J U L 1 0 – 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 80 3 2

TOMbOY TReNd Androgyny is back in vogue as masculine tailoring and sharp

shoulders make for a transitional look that takes you from summer to

autumn with professional ease. Look to Stella McCartney, Michael Kors and DKNY (photographed) for the

perfect blend of nonchalant mannish style with a feminine twist. Think grey blazers, oversized tailoring,

Prince of Wales check and classic cotton shirts – and voila – you’ll have

the look nailed.

J U L 1 0 – 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 8 0 3 3

BUY NOW, WEAR lATERStart planning your Eid shopping list with Penny Fray’s sneak peak of what you’ll want to wear next season

1. Add feathers, fripperies and faux fur to plain pieces to bring them right up to date. If you can’t sew, grab the glue gun. 2. The print dress is a forever piece. Wear with bare legs and flowing, loose hair now, but switch to opaques and an up-do for autumn. 3. Embellishment continues to dazzle after several seasons in the spotlight. If you’ve yet to buy into the trend, a jewelled hair band is a low-commitment, high-impact purchase.

NEW SEASON STYLE

Penny’s tips on how to update your wardrobe:

It’s over. The four fashion capitals have showcased their wares and the result is a host of new ideas, inspirations and trends for the forthcoming season. While autumn may be a couple of months away, there’s no harm in

being prepared, especially since Muscat’s stores are now re-stocking their shelves with some amazing new stuff.

So what to buy? Well, consider snaffling summer’s statement florals and faunas in the sales and update them for autumn with pared down accessories and oversized silhouettes. After all, the latest catwalks were a riot of butterflies, rich golden embroidered gardens and lovely lace blooms. Other popular prints included harlequin checks and Breton stripes.

If patterns and embellishments are not your thing but you still want to make a statement for the new season – go bright. From Christian Dior’s clashing colour combinations to Prada’s punchy hues and Miu Miu’s sweet-wrapper metallics, September looks like being a super sunny month.

Meanwhile, minimalists like me will be kept happy with subdued shades and softly structured tailoring. Things are kept modern with exaggerated proportions. Consider Acne Studios and The Row for luxurious cocoon-like sweaters that envelop the body, while capes were embraced by all the couture houses. It’s a look that stealthily conceals a multitude of sins, but volume doesn’t mean bulk. Offset longer-length proportions by revealing an elegant ankle or wrist. On the high street, Zara and H&M have some amazing high-impact pieces at affordable prices.

Last but not least, consider channelling the cowboy look with tasseled accessories, jeans and printed blanket coats. It was one of pre-autumn’s biggest looks thanks to Chanel’s frontier-themed show.

Next week, we’ll look at what’s big for the boys. See you then.

POINTED fLATSIt’s time to retire round-toed ballerinas and point up with these versatile flats from Zara. From RO20.

THE MIDI SkIRT Forget summer’s maxi skirt because the midi is more flattering than you might think. Elongate your torso by tucking in your top or wearing it with a cropped tee. This leather-look piece from M&S offers a bit of an edge to your new season look. From RO40.

6 MUST BUyS

DRAMATIC fLORALSSummer’s big print continues to dominate autumn’s palette. Offset a statement piece like this Matalan blouse with luxurious, pared-back basics. From RO10.

AMERICAN JEANS The easiest way to tap into next season’s Wild West trend is jeans – but not the skinny kind. Frame Denim’s distressed Le Garcon jeans are a flattering, slimmed-down take on the classic boyfriend cut. Carefully crafted in the USA, this stretch-denim pair features a five-pocket construction, a comfortable mid-rise and a fresh light-blue wash. Available online from Net-A-Porter for RO172. Obviously, you’ll get budget versions from Gap, Splash and other chain stores in Muscat’s various malls.

THE OVERSIZED COATEase yourself into the new season with an oversized jacket or coat in a light wool or silk fabric. This classic camel number from H&M is bang on trend and will be perfect for travelling to colder climates during Eid’s big getaway. It’s good value at RO99. For Muscat, however, try a billowing light trench from Zara.

A MINIMALIST BAGA minimalist bag will transcend both seasons and trends. That’s why I love M2Malletier’s Fabricca clutch, handmade from smooth, black leather. The brand’s signature gold needle handle is inspired by medieval armour and took two years to perfect. Use this to carry your compact, phone and purse, and free up your hands with the optional shoulder strap. Obviously, it’s an investment buy at RO605. But great (and cheaper) alternatives can be found in Zara and M&S.

J U L 1 0 - 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 80 3 4

HEALTH&BEAUTY

Hot yoga is so last season. It’s all about night exercising now, says Penny Fray

After

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

So how’s your summer fitness regime going? Occasionally dragging yourself to the gym to text from a treadmill before spending the rest of your training hour complaining how

tired you feel? Trainers mouldering under your desk? Using Ramadan or the heat as an excuse to turn into a slouch? Thought so. We’ve all been there – a lack of energy, time and a whole heap of other excuses can stall anyone from hitting their health high. Which is why we suggest you embrace the latest exercising trend – twilight training.

It’s been all the rage since Adidas’s 24-hour thunder run and scientists discovering that exercising after dark is better for mind, body and spirit. Throw in the added incentives of refueling at Iftar, no scorching sun and the fact that no one will be watching you wobbling your way to weight loss in unflattering lycra, and my only question is: what are you waiting for?

Of course, being a dog owner means that I’ve been doing it for years. There is something quite meditative about taking a mutt out for its pre-bedtime walk. Being surrounded by blackness somehow heightens your senses, so that every cricket clicking is amplified tenfold and your mind empties as you focus on not running into a lamppost.

“You feel less self conscious and more alert at night,” agrees Hannah, a 34-year-old artist who loves jogging in the dark. “Your mind is so tightly focused on your surroundings that tiredness, pace or

Dark

bumping into someone or something becomes less of an issue.”

Specialists add that doing night moves may even give us a psychological boost. According to the University of Essex Performance Unit in the UK, running in darkness alters your perception of speed and potential effort.

Moreover, science in general believes that our bodies are better designed to exercise in the dark. Studies on our body clocks have shown that lung function, alertness and fitness peak in the evening. And according to experts, hormones that play a part in energy metabolism are higher after twilight. Besides, exercise can reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer by up to 50 per cent and lower your risk of early death by up to 30 per cent. Do it at night and the chances are you’ll sleep better to boot.

Of course, you need to be careful. You may be fasting after all. Get medical advice before enlisting for anything too strenuous. Even if you are fit, able and eating more carrots than Bugs Bunny to improve your night vision, you’ll also need to be seen. That means carrying a torch or wearing a headlamp and reflective clothing. Also, let your eyes and body get used to moving in darkness. Try a short route you know well to begin with – and go slowly because your peripheral vision is reduced. Once you get used to the opaqueness, you’ll have opened a brave new world of sights, sounds and sensations. Enjoy!

STANd OUT WITh TheSe MUST- hAVe ACCeSSORIeS

1. Adidas Running Light: Can be worn on either arms or legs to warn others of your presence.

2. The Nike Reflective Futura T-Shirt offers a special logo graphic that stands out night or day.

3. Offering increased grip, visibility and gender-specific cushioning - the Asics GT 3000 W is worth investigating for evening runs.

J U L 1 0 - 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 8 0 3 5

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

STYLE COUNSEL

Barbra Young, a former designer and retailer

BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

Dear Valerie,It’s not necessary unless you want

to cover your shoulders. Whatever the month, but especially Ramadan, guests in an Islamic country should be respectful by dressing and behaving in a modest manner. Saying that, we should all be free to be who we are, without offending our hosts. Feel free to wear your regular clothes, just make sure you don’t flash the flesh inappropriately. Stock up on little shrugs, leggings and this season’s coolest cover up – the kimono jacket. This one photographed is from Zara.

If you have any fashion questions for Barbra, email

info@y-oman.com or tweet #style

@ytabloid

Barbra, I moved to Muscat with my husband in January and

wondered whether I should wear a scarf during Ramadan out of respect. I’m not Muslim. Valerie, Qurum.

Q.

A.

TRENDTHE MID-FINGER RING

Own rings that don’t fit? Don’t worry. They could turn you into a fashion pioneer thanks to the latest outre trend where thin bands are worn directly above the first knuckle. Opt for a scattering of fine stones mid-finger for high impact accessorising or just go for the minimalist look with one special or heirloom ring. We love this little number by Ileana Makri. An ancient symbol of protection from negative forces, this “Evil Eye” is set with a colourful collection of sapphire, tsavorites and diamonds to create a truly beautiful talisman.

AL

ER

T

Fancy an energy boost without going down the traditional coffee route this Ramadan? After all, you’ll need to sleep following all that midnight feasting. Try ginger root. Not only is it good for your digestion but it also improves circulation and has plenty of anti-inflammatory properties – perfect if you’re feeling under the weather in Muscat’s searing heat.

TO

P T

IP

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J U LY 1 0 - 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 8 0 3 7

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

CARS ANDADVENTURES

hIddeN hAMLeTPerched on a

mountainside with terraces of green, the village of Bilad

Sayt retains its traditional charm.

J U LY 1 0 - 1 6 / I S S U E 3 2 80 3 8

CARS ANDOUTDOORS

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

Destination

BIlAD SAYTTake a trip to a spectacular hidden village nestled on the slopes of the mountains. It’s a hair-raising drive,

but worth it, says Jerzy Wierzbicki

As my car inched up the steep track, the view from my window was a sharp drop into the wadi

that meandered through the terrain below me. Not for the first time on this trip, I wondered whether coming back to Bilad Sayt was such a good idea.

The last time I came to this charming mountain hamlet, tucked in the protective embrace of the rugged Hajar Mountains, it was unforgettable – not necessarily for good reasons.

It was during winter about seven years ago, only a few months after I had moved to Oman. I was driving a small and not particularly good 4x4 model and was a newcomer to the Sultanate’s unique land. During the journey, dark clouds suddenly descended to cover the mountains and heavy rain began to lash down, ripping up the gravel track ahead of me. I was very lucky to make it back to the main road with just a broken bumper and fear driving me on.

The experience stayed engraved in my mind and I have subconsciously avoided any trip there again.

But time heals all wounds, as the saying goes, and a week ago, I decided to return to Bilad Sayt and take on this remote location again.

I was drawn back by the prospect of visiting a place that retains its traditions and sense of rural solitude, along with unspoilt beauty.

There’s another reason why I chose the mountains to visit. The heat in the desert is unbearable at the moment, making any trip there completely pointless.

I discovered that many things have changed since my first trip to Bilad Sayt.

Several kilometres of the road in Wadi Bani Awf are now asphalted and the old gravel track begins deeper in the valley.

The weather was on my side, too. The merciless sun was hidden behind clouds and in the valley, I found more shadows and cooler temperatures, with the humidity completely gone. Still, I took my time and drove slowly to the highest part of the mountains. This track is only for 4x4s. Not only is it a bumpy ride, it’s steep and can be very narrow in places, skirting the precipitous edge.

After about 20 kilometres, I took a break. The sky was covered in a fluffy blanket of clouds and a light wind blew softly. I watched the clouds and tried to weigh up the chances of rain. I didn’t want my second trip to be spoiled by the weather again. This time, however,

I was much better prepared for any difficulties.

The route to Bilad Sayt is fully off road. By afternoon, I finally reached the point directly opposite the village. It’s a wonderful panoramic view. A settlement of stone-and-mud dwellings clusters on a small dark hill, connected by a labyrinth of narrow pathways, with a verdant swathe of date plants and a patchwork of terraced fields bringing a splash of colour to the scene.

Wandering around the village, I took some great photographs of the old-world homes with colourful doors and a square tower, now in poignant ruin, which stands on top of the hill overlooking Bilad Sayt. The village enjoys moderate temperatures even in summer, while the rest of the Interior region sizzles.

The main source of life here is the lush green terraces. Small fields, separated by stony walls, create a symmetrical and regular shape form from a distance. The colour was so intense and vivid. Sometimes, you will see farmers tending their crops of alfalfa as the women return from the mountain springs with pots of fresh water balanced on their heads. It is these crystal streams of water from high in the peaks that feed the village’s two main aflaj and nurture this little oasis of fields, gardens and farms.

Speaking of water, I noticed a drop of rain as I left the village and headed back to the main road. After several kilometres, the rain became stronger and I could hear thunder crashing around the sky. Visibility was good and the temperature again dropped to about 30°C as the wind became stronger. I stopped a few times on the way back to take some photographs. The rain only came in a short burst, nothing dangerous, and helped to wash away the dust from my car.

For a taste of authentic Oman, untouched by modernity, Bilad Sayt should be on your bucket list. Now that I have conquered the village, I will definitely be back again soon.

HOW TO GET THEREThe route to Bilad Sayt is simple. Go to Barka and take the road that leads to Rustaq. In the small town of Al Awabi, refuel your car and then go on for another 10 kilometres. You’ll see a road sign on the right to Wadi Bani Awf. Turn there and continue for about 25km through the wadi until you come to an intersection. The road to Bilad Sayt is well indicated. The track goes through rugged terrain, so take care. Drive carefully as it is steep in places and can be dangerous. It is only accessible by 4x4 vehicles.

GPS location of the turn to Wadi Bani Awf:  23°20’31.62”N 57°29’35.68”E

GPS location of Bilad Sayt  23°11’27.40”N 57°23’17.58”E

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TRAV

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CARS ANDOUTDOORSCARS ANDADVENTURES

It’s hot, humid and no one is in the mood to exercise. Expert Lyle Foster from Boot Camp Zulu tells Kate Ginn how to keep motivated during the summer and beyond

WORKIt Out

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

It Out

So Lyle, tell us a little bit about yourself.I’m 29 years old and originally from South Africa, although I have spent the past seven years in Australia. I am part of a very active and sporty family and have been involved in sports and fitness as far back as I can remember. I have recently moved here to Oman to expand my career in fitness and to be involved in the growth of the fitness industry in Oman.How did you get into fitness?I come from a very active family, so at a very young age I got involved in fitness through school sports including rugby, cricket, water polo, kayaking and kitesurfing among many more. My interest evolved from there towards body building-type training in a regular gym, to finally Crossfit, which I have been involved in for about five years now and where my passion in fitness lies.Have you studied or qualified as a fitness instructor? If so, can you tell us about it?Yes, I qualified as a fitness instructor about 10 years ago and have since also completed my Crossfit trainer course.What is Boot Camp Zulu all about?Boot camp is a social fitness solution. We exercise outdoors on the beautiful beaches of Muscat where the scenery and camaraderie of the group inspire you to work harder than you would in a gym or on a treadmill at home. Don’t worry about being treated like some military recruit, the trainers are really nice, there’s no fear factor at Boot Camp Zulu.How fit do you need to be to take part in boot camp?You don’t have to be fit at all. To join boot camp, all you need is a “can-do” attitude, not worry about what others are doing around you and focus on your own goals. Boot camp caters for everyone, from the fitness newbie to the super elites.During the summer, it’s hard to exercise with the soaring temperatures. What can people do to continue keeping fit?Be mindful of when you are training, avoid the heat of the day and instead exercise early mornings or evenings. Also, lessen the intensity and/or duration of the workout. The important thing is to just keep doing something, for something is better than nothing. Another thing to make sure of is that you stay hydrated. I realise this is a bit more difficult during Ramadan, but when you can, make sure you drink water before, during and after training. It is also worth looking at getting an electrolyte replacement supplement – you can get sachets from a pharmacy that you mix with water – this will help with your hydration by replenishing electrolytes and other important nutrients that are lost during exercise and daily activity (some sports drinks also have electrolytes in them, for example Gatorade, but usually come with lots of sugar). Another good thing would be to minimise food and drink that cause dehydration such as excessive caffeine, sugar and salt.

Do you have any special fitness programmes running during Ramadan?Yes, we’re running a 9pm session at The Wave specifically, but not exclusively, to accommodate those observing Ramadan.If someone hasn’t been exercising for a long time and is out of shape, they could be scared to begin working out again. What’s the best way for them to start getting fit?Start slowly, don’t just jump in and try to do a crazy workout. Keep it short and simple and build on it each session. Fitness is a journey and doesn’t come overnight, a month or even a year. So

start slowly and keep at it.What are basic exercises people can do to stay in shape?There are a lot. Most will just need to stick to bodyweight movements such as the squat, push-ups and sit-ups. From there, they can move to exercises such as burpees and mountain climbers. Also including running and swimming would be good to mix it up. I would, however, suggest getting started with someone such as a trainer, or in an environment with a trainer, who can show you the correct technique to avoid bad body mechanics and injury.It’s hard to stay motivated sometimes. What’s your advice on keeping motivation going?Make your workouts fun, so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Exercise with others like we do at our boot camp sessions, it keeps you honest, holds you accountable and we all tend to have a lot of fun at the same time. Schedule regular times so you have a plan and will be more likely to stick to it. At Boot Camp Zulu, we have three sessions a day, three days a week. Lastly, and also very importantly, set goals so you have something to aim for.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOp fIVE TIpS TO

keepIng fIt?Get started by making the time and sticking to it

Set a goal such as a fun run or event that is coming up

Eat healthy meals

Join a fitness group or

work with a trainer

Stay hydrated

BOOT CAMp ZULU MUSCATCheck out: /bootcamp.zulu

email: adrian.foster@oibme.com

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TOP 5 PlACES TO VISIT:1. Chinatown2. the Central Market3. Islamic arts Museum4. thean Hou temple5. Petronas twin towers

gOOd KARMA Visit the stunning

Thean Hou Temple to see the spiritual side of Kuala Lumpur before

hitting the shops in this fascinating Malaysian city.

CARS ANDADVENTURES

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

My favourite place Chinatown is a paradise for bargain hunters who love to wander in and out of little shops where you can buy anything from Chinese herbs to a “designer” T-shirt, which will shrink after a couple of washes. But it’s not just the shops that attract me to Petaling Street, where Chinatown is situated. You can partake in the local’s two favourite pastimes here: shopping and eating. Malaysia is quite rightly known for its rich mixture of food. From traditional Chinese dishes to Malay and Bangladeshi, if you want to try something different you will find it here. Once you have filled yourself with fish, noodles and meat you can then wander off to one of the numerous bars to sit, relax and contemplate your next shopping venture.

Highlights Quite close to Chinatown is the Central Market, built by the British in 1888. A few decades ago there were plans to demolish it, but the Malaysian Heritage Society fought against the closure and the Central Market is now a cultural site to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. As well as traditional shops the art lovers among you will enjoy the galleries on the top floor. Take a visit to the Islamic Arts Museum to see some of the world’s best Islamic Decorative Arts, there’s also a very decent Middle Eastern restaurant there. Thean Hou Temple is beautiful to look at both inside and out. The statue of the heavenly mother, Thean Hou, is a joy and can be seen in the main hall. On the ground floor. you will not be surprised to hear, there are ... shops and restaurants. And, of course, if you go next spring, you will be able to watch the Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Lowlights Traffic is a total nightmare so don’t bother hiring a car to get around. KL can also be incredibly hot and humid, but for those of you used to summers in Oman you should be able to take this in your stride. However, because of the awful traffic jams you will probably find yourself walking a great deal so remember to take plenty of bottles of water with you. Souvenirs There are hundreds of tiny shops and stalls in KL, so souvenirs can be found in abundance. Again, the Central Market is the perfect place to buy souvenirs for your friends and loved ones, but it can be great fun to go to the small street stalls and haggle for whatever you want too. The Malaysians take great pride in their woodcarvings, a skill passed down from generation to generation. Wood-carved elephants are pretty popular. But you cannot return home without buying some Malaysian-grown tea. Much of it is mixed with spices that are meant to keep you in good health.

Where to stay Hotels are numerous in KL and you don’t have to break the bank if you want a clean and comfortable one. However, one particular hotel has been recommended by a number of my friends and colleagues. The Mandarin Oriental is, say my friends, well worth a stay. Rooms, although large, are in in need of a little refurbishment, though, but management say they are in the process of modernisation.

KUALA LUMPURMALAYSIAN ARTIST AT THE CENTRAL MARKET

CHINATOWN

Daniel Owen recommends

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS

M uddy River Junct i on - or t o you and I , Kua la Lumpur .The mean ing i n Malay of Kua la i s a j unct i on between two r i vers , wh i l e

Lumpur i s s imp ly muddy .But the cap i ta l c i ty of Malays ia i s anyth ing but as c lear as mud - i t

stands out as a beacon to the Far East . I t i s a c i ty that has a g l or i o us m ixture of young and o ld - be i t bu i l d i ngs or peop le . I t has someth ing for everyone .

Of course , what stands out before everyth ing e lse i s the Petronas Tw in Towers , but there i s so much more to Kua la Lumpur than these 452-metre-ta l l bu i l d i ngs , former ly the ta l l est i n the wor ld .

A wa lk through th is fasc inat ing c i ty - and i t i s eas ier to wa lk as the roads are notor i o us ly jammed - w i l l take you through the a l l eyways of Ch inatown, L itt le I nd ia , theatre land and a maze of fasc inat ing stores and souks .

Often abbrev iated as K.L, th is metropo l i s - h ome to some two m i l l i on peop le - has a lso p layed host to maj or sport ing events , i nc l ud ing the Commonwea lth Games in 1988 and the Formu la One Grand Pr ix .

W ith h i stor i c monuments , skyscrapers , l ush parks, huge shopp ing ma l l s and a v ibrant n i ght scene , Malays ia ’ s su l try cap i ta l w i l l bew itch and frustrate you .

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

EDITO

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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

BLOOM iN MOTiON

The Brinno GardenWatchCam is a weather-resistant, time-lapse camera that will help you to capture cool videos of your garden in motion. Sure, regular snapshot photography can do the same thing, but you’d have to be a motion software geek to get it right. Imagine capturing a flower blooming, autumn leaves changing colour and water running off the tips of leaves after a storm. It has a high-quality lens with seven predetermined time settings, so you can choose one minute, five minutes, 30 minutes, one hour, four hours or even 24 hours. Then simply connect it to the 2GB flash drive (included) and become Discovery Channel’s newest movie-maker. From www.amazon.com for a mere RO98

GREEN FINGERSIt might be hot out there, but your plants and shrubs still need some tender love and care. Matthew Herbst digs in to find you

cool solutions for a happy garden

NATURE’S HEALERFOR THOSE WHO ARE ADAMANT THAT NATURE AND

TECHNOLOGY CAN’T MIX, THE KOUBACHi Wi-Fi SENSOR MIGHT CHANGE YOUR MIND, ESPECIALLY IF YOU TAKE

A qUICK LOOK AT YOUR DRY AND DYING GARDEN. THE KOUBACHI CAN HELP YOUR GREEN THUMB WITH LITTLE EFFORT. IT MEASURES SOIL MOISTURE, TEM PERATURE AND LIGHT INTENSITY. USING SCIENTIFIC INDOOR OR OUTDOOR MODELS, IT CAN DETERMINE THE NEEDS

OF YOUR PLANT. YOU CAN ALSO ACCESS YOUR DATA REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU ARE AS KOUBACHI STORES

ALL YOUR DATA SECURELY IN THE CLOUD FOR AS LONG AS YOU WISH. IT CAN’T GET MUCH EASIER THAN THAT, CAN IT?

www.koubachi.com; RO61 FOR THE OUTDOOR VERSION AND

RO46.58 FOR INDOORS

GROW AND GLOW Brighten up your garden by night with these solar-powered plant pots. The solar cell with a three-metre cable, which plugs into the pot, soaks up the sun’s rays and powers the internal battery to charge the built-in LEDs. As night falls, the pot begins to glow, adding a magical touch of colour to your garden or patio. In summer, you’re looking at about six to eight hours of running time and about half that in winter. www.amazon.com for RO44

GREEN STEPS

These dynamic grass flip-flops from Kusa Shoes are ideal for everyday walking or, better still, a spot of gardening on your balcony. The feeling of fresh lawn under your tootsies is a wonderful way to spend the summer keeping green and tending to your shrubs. Made with Syn-Turf, the material is naturally shaped and conforms to the contours of your feet. It may flatten with repeated use, but just fluff it up occasionally and resist the urge to mow! www.kusashoes.com RO10.50

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AUTOMATiC FOR THE PEOPLE

Forget Robocop, the Robomow RS630 is here. Considered one of the best of its kind on the market, the RS630 takes control of your mowing schedule. All you need to do is program how often it should mow your lawn and then simply sit back and relax. It will automatically begin mowing and park itself back in its bay when done, awaiting the next scheduled mow. Not only that, it is 100 per cent waterproof. There are a variety of sizes depending on your lawn requirements. From small to extra large, the RS630 is probably the best option. www.robomow.com at RO769.61

LiTTLE BiG HELPERThe Robomow App is your ticket to the easy life, providing you with a lawn mowing experience like no other. Wherever you are – on the sofa, in the garden or even out and about – interacting with your mower has never been faster, easier or more enjoyable. Enjoy your mocktail while you watch your Robomow do its thing! Free from the iTunes store

App of the week

NEW Microsoft hasn’t had much luck with its previous tablets, but the Surface Pro 3 could be a game changer for the multibillion-dollar company. The Surface Pro 3 is described as an evolutionary product in the industry thanks to its advanced capabilities. The touchscreen tablet is considered to be just as good as a laptop, including its desktop programs and functions, while at the same time it gives the option of portability. Equipped with a Surface Pen, input usage and surfing is made easier and more efficient. With a larger display, the Surface Pro 3 can create a holistic experience that satisfies the needs of productivity as well as entertainment. It’s also perfect as a garden companion. Starting at RO307.63

MiCROSOFT SURFACE PRO 3

FOR HERGardening can be tiring even for the best of us, so why not turn your tool tote into a chair for a welcome break? This Picnic Time 5-piece Garden Tool Set is ideal for women with the gardening bug. Not only does it carry gardening tools, but it also doubles as a canvas tote that you can tuck a picnic lunch into. Best of all, you can sit on it to eat your lunch. www.amazon.com RO23

Processor: Fourth generation with an option of Intel Core i3,i5 or i7

Battery life: Up to nine hours

Accessories: Surface Pro Type Cover( as well as a keyboard)

Software: Microsoft Office Suite, OneDrive and Xbox

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

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It’s the Honda CiTY, but not as you know it. The family favourite has undergone a cool sporty makeover and Kate Ginn likes it

Honda CITY 2014Specifications

Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC, 16-valve, four-cylinder

Horsepower: 118Transmission: Five-speed

automaticTop Speed: 190kph

check this out

Boot capacity 510 litres Electronic power steering Driver and front passenger

SRS airbags Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Cruise control Bluetooth phone controls Six colour range 7” TFT touch screen

(LX/EX trim) Auto air-conditioning

system (EX) 16” sport alloy wheels (EX)

F or 18 months, I was the proud owner of a Honda CITY. Or rather it was on loan to me by the rental company during my first

year and a half in Oman. My silver CITY did a good job of navigating around Muscat and helped introduce me to the unique driving etiquette of the Sultanate’s roads.

Reluctantly, my CITY went back for a service and I moved on to another make, but I still have fond memories of our time together.

So I was quite excited to hear that the design team at Honda had been busy of late giving the model a complete design change based, so they say, on a grand concept of “Advanced Cool Sporty Car”.

Do they deliver?Well, this new model certainly

isn’t the CITY that you’ve come to know and love. It’s something even better. It looks sleeker and more dynamic with an air of sophistication, which is a pleasant surprise for a saloon in the family class where practicality usually outranks looks.

It’s lighter, too, thanks to a new steel body. Don’t think for a moment that lightweight means reduced safety, as this CITY is reassuringly fully loaded with air bags, anti-lock brakes and headrests designed to minimise the risk of a neck injury in rear impacts.

Another plus for parents is the

cavernous boot, which can hold up to 510 litres, making it the leader in its class. That should be more than enough room for the average family, even with weekly shopping, school bags or prams and all the other paraphernalia that comes with children.

Inside, the space is impressive to say the least. Those Honda smarty-pants in the design department have created what seems like hectares more space with a little ingenuity. Basically, their philosophy is “man maximum machine minimum”, which to you and me means that we get more room. In a nutshell, Honda has put the needs of the driver before the car. I like that approach.

The result is loads of rear leg room and knee room and good head clearance. Being tall, it’s a real bonus as I hate being in cars in which my legs are squashed up, my knees squeezed painfully under the steering wheel and the top of my head grazes the roof.

Elsewhere, the interior has been upgraded, too. True, it’s not super luxe – you can go for the top of the range EX trim if you want all the extras – but it’s pretty decent for its class of car.

Both cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free phone controls are standard on all CITY models, including the base DX. Go for the LX/EX and you get a 7-inch

touchscreen with integrated smartphone features. That’s certainly a lot more hi-tech than my old CITY.

Now, we all know that it gets very hot in Oman during the summer. This is where the CITY comes into its own with the EX trim having an auto air-conditioning system with touch-screen control panel and available rear AC vents. How cool is that?

As for the drive, it has just the same bite that I remember. I always found the CITY had sharp acceleration thanks to the 1.5-litre injection engine, with enough poke to comfortably overtake. It was good on fuel efficiency too and the new CITY has an ECON switch, which enhances fuel economy at the touch of a button.

Speaking of buttons, the top of the line EX also has a Start/Stop one, so there’s no fiddling with keys. It also has a “Paddle Shift” option, which allows the driver to enjoy manual transmission-like driving feel. If you do want a bit more pizzazz, you can always opt for the 16” sporty alloy wheels, stylish fog lamps and shark-fin antenna.

Personally, I would prefer to keep my CITY more straight-laced. Although I have to say that I am tempted by the idea of the new colour paint, Golden Brown Metallic. A girl always does like a bit of gold after all.

they say: “Outshine them all.”

We say: “Outstanding value,

inside and out.”

CARS ANDADVENTURES

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

CAR OF THE WEEK