May 2014 - Faces Oman
Transcription
May 2014 - Faces Oman
www.marksandspencer.om Facebook.com/MarksandSpencerArabia Oman: Muscat City Centre, East Wing Entrance, Ground Level, Tel: 24558455 Autograph worn by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Issue 88, May 2014 Family Attitude Class Entertainment Success Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali Business Director / Sophia Raman Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma Advertising Manager / Aziz K. Baker Advertising / Avril D’souza Operations / M.V.V. Sagar Published By / Muscat Press & Publishing House (SAOC) PB 770, PC 112, Ruwi, Oman Tel: +968 24 811953 . Fax: +968 24 813153 Printed At / Ruwi Modern Printers LLC Tel: +968 24798157 / 24794167 Contact Telephone +968 24563382/24563385 Fascimile +968 24566014 Email - Editorial [email protected] Email - Sales [email protected] Website www.facesoman.com Editor’s Note There is something about June weddings that has stuck on since the days of yore. It was during the early Roman era, more than two thousand years ago, that June wore a festive cloak for those desiring to tie the knot. While the reasons for picking a June wedding ranged from the trivial to the ponderous, the month has stuck an endearing chord with many who continue to say ‘I do’ in June. Whether this trend is universal or not, Oman does witness a flurry of bridal plans, come June. However, as an event planner noted, weddings are a year-round affair here, taking a hiatus only during the Ramadan season. The contention though is not whether June continues to sway the wedding industry, as much as it is on demonstrating the importance of wedding planners to ensure that the special day pans out perfectly and even turns into a made-in-heaven wedding. From wedding reception plans to wedding fashion, this issue of FACES is a celebration of the most important day in the lives of couples. It is dedicated to the endearing bonds of wedding. It also contains our regular features and columns to keep you engrossed, until the next issue of FACES grabs your attention. Until then, stay cool friends! We are on Facebook! ‘FACES Magazine, Oman’ Copyright 2014 FACES / All material published remains the copyright of FACES. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. FACES cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material. Contents In This Issue FACES Features 16 Cover Story Maryam Al Mandhari of Dazzle Events, highlights the importance of weding planners to make the day all the more special 22 In Conversation Adrian Foster, Founder of Boot Camp Zulu presents a balanced dose of wealth and wellness 24 In The Spotlight Focus on Team Shadow, which bagged Microsoft’s ‘Imagine Cup 2014’ for their ‘Smarty Shopper’ application FACES Foodie 26 Feast on Savour some of the scrumptious seafood at the idyllic Beach Pavilion 28 Let’s Cook Gourmet recipes from Chef Alvin of Beach Pavilion 29 Healthy Bites Mark World Blood Donor Day ay on June 14 by doing the good deed FACES Health h 30 Health Check 3 Before you and your partnerr say ‘I do’, pause and rewind to assess if your health is in order 33 Health Tidingss 3 Health tid-bits from around the world FACES Style 38 In The Luxe Exclusive wedding cakes and gowns to add that wealth factor to the special day 40 Look Good Pampered, relaxed and therapeutic massage at the Zayna Spa 42 Style File Kids summer collection from Max and spring-summer from Clarks FACES Elements 34 Man Date A pre-wedding beauty regimen is not the prerogative of brides alone... 36 Relatively Speaking To wed or not to wed... Doubts before the impending wedding date are universal 48 At Home Find out how you can use your exterior spaces as an extension of your interiors FACES Special FA 50 Wedding Notes All things bright and beautiful to make the wedding day special 59 Contest Winners Congratulations to the winners of FACES Mother’s Day Contest FACES Travel Just Travel 44 A look at some of the popular honeymoon destinations around the world 46 Visit Nagarhole, a paradise in the deep jungles of India FACES Razzmatazz 10 Introducing Star Light the man behind the most famous Spiderman mask in tinsel-town 12 Razzle Dazzle Latest celebrity gossip from the world of Hollywood 14 Tittle Tattle Heard through the grapevine... FACES Digest 64 Movies & Books Reviews of upcoming movies and books 66 Gadget Notes Roundup of new gadgets in the market City Centre malls to debut VOX Cinemas E ‘Much h More’’ from Pizza Hut P M y 2014 Ma May izza Hut patrons can now look forward to ‘Pizza & much more’, which features the addition of 13 new products to its existing menu, including five varieties of starters, four types of flatbreads, two types of footlong lasagna and two desserts. ‘Pizza & much more’ is an initiative by Pizza Hut to expand its menu and service elements to cater to a much wider audience. As part of this effort, the brand has already introduced a range of new mocktails, starters, flatbreads, salads and desserts. The 13 new additions include appetisers like chicken sticks, meatball sliders, firecracker chicken spin rolls, pepperoni & cheese spin rolls, and firecracker shrimp spin rolls. 6 ntertainment scene in the capital is all set to get better with the debut of the very first VOX Cinemas at City Centre malls in June. The first time appearance of VOX Cinemas in the Sultanate is part of Majid Al Futtaim’s major redevelopment investment of OMR11.3 million to revamp City Centre malls. By early June, City Centre Muscat will open a 10-screen VOX Cinemas and by late June, City Centre Qurum will unveil a 7-screen VOX Cinemas. In mid-July, families can also experience a new Magic Planet attraction at City Centre Qurum. VOX Cinemas is also introducing the VOX MAX concept, featuring an impressive 16.6m screen in City Centre Muscat and a 18m mega-screen in City Centre Qurum. VOX MAX will also feature Dolby® Atmos™ surround sound technology – a first for Oman, delivering a fully immersive entertainment experience. Atana Khasab Reflects ‘Shades of Oman’ Designed to invite guests to experience the best of Oman, Atana Khasab, the new four-star property in Khasab, draws inspiration from across the Sultanate. Nestled on the rocky Musandam headland, Atana Khasab overlooks a vast seascape, where traditional wooden dhows have for centuries fished the stunning turquoise waters of the Strait of Hormuz. The Atana Khasab is the first of the ‘proudly Omani’ Atana Hotels, Oman’s own local hospitality chain. The Atana Chain is a four-star hotel and resort operator, which blends local Omani traditions with contemporary culture to create a world-class experience. It offers Omanis the chance to explore new parts of their own country and feel at home instantly in its properties, while providing a fascinating insight into Oman for global tourists. Jotun Oman launches Jotashield ColourLast I t’s all about trendy new colours at Jotun Paints, which has launched two new products - Jotashield ColourLast and Jotashield ColourXtreme under its exterior paint brand Jotashield. The products were unveiled to a select audience in Muscat. Jotashield ColourLast is a state-of-the-art product of the advanced binder technology that ensures colours are protected from extreme weather conditions. The exterior wall paint does not fade for a longer period and thereby creates a lasting impression for homes. Jotashield ColourXtreme, the next generation of exterior paints, has been developed using cutting-edge technology that surpasses stringent internal and external requirements to deliver outstanding durability, colour protection and heat reflection. C Two new eateries open in Muscat Gourmands in the capital have two new culinary experiences to relish at the Al Assalah Towers in Ghubra. Four Seasons Tourism LLC has opened Mamasan and Trattoria, which also houses a coffee shop. While Mamasan offers a range of popular as well as signature dishes from across various Chinese provinces, Trattoria takes diners on a gastronomic tour of Italy with its fresh pastas, delicious seafood main course specials and pizzas. Mamasan also offers a daily business lunch buffet for diners who are pressed for time. Trattoria, meanwhile, has its own coffee shop whose aromatic coffee blends, cakes, homemade gelatos, pastries and freshly baked breads, croissants and sandwiches make it an oasis of taste and refreshment. May 2014 S 8 Dolese Cakes opens in Qurum ake lovers have a new destination to frequent with the opening of the first branch of Dolese, a new and innovative shop for cakes and pastries. The outlet, formally inaugurated by H.H. Alya bint Thuwaini Al Said, has been especially designed with references to the traditional style of Oman, but also incorporating aspects of European design. The Dolese brand specialises in making delicious sweets and cakes and has created a team of talented chefs who make all the cakes in the shop. Dar El Ezz Complex Opens in Nizwa N i z w a ’ s touristic attraction has been heightened with the opening of Dar el Ezz Food and Beverage Complex, Nizwa’s first fine dining outlet, from Falcon for Tourism Investment LLC (FTI). The unique high-end facility has been designed to cater to Nizwa’s stopover tourists who pass through the historic town, en route to other parts of Oman. A joint initiative by FTI and the Ministry of Tourism, the complex has been constructed over 3,690sqm and incorporates a fort like design to reflect Nizwa’s historic and captivating past. The RO 2mn facility boasts of an international fine dining restaurant ‘Memories’, an open air coffee shop ‘Clouds’ serving Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine and a multi-purpose banquet hall, ‘Shahrayar’. ‘Renaissance to Street Art’ ummer will have an artistic flavour this year with the introduction of ‘Bait Al Dalaleel’s first summer programme, ‘Renaissance to Street Art’. Bait Al Zubair’s Art Space, Bait Al Dalaleel, is a collective space dedicated to welcome, inspire, and influence the young generation of artists in Oman. In June Bait Al Dalaleel will launch our ‘Art History and Practical Summer Course: Renaissance to Street Art’, a one month intensive course conducted by visiting lecturer Professor Dickerson MFA. Dr (RCA) Dr. John Dickerson, visiting lecturer from Richmond, the American International University in London will be conducting the course. The art space is a haven for writers and artists to create, freelancers to work, researchers to connect, thinkers to network and artists to collaborate. A ndrew Russell Garfield has hit the big league with his rendition of Spiderman in the Amazing Spiderman series; the sequel, released recently, reportedly posted the biggest opening of the year at the UK box office. Garfield is currently on the crest of success. The Amazing series of the SpiderMan franchise has gotten him the recognition he deserves. Analysing his endearing role, he is quoted to have said: “Spider-Man is not an alien like Superman or a rich bazillionaire like Bruce Wayne; he’s a kid and a kid doing his best…I think that’s why we all feel like Spider-Man.” The 30-year old actor, who has dual citizenship in the United States and the United Kingdom, began his acting career in the stage and television productions in the United Kingdom from Los Angeles to Britain and Garfield was raised in Surrey. His mother was a teaching g assistant at a nursery school, and his father became a head coach off the Guildform Swimming Club. During g his school years, Andrew was a gymnast mnast and a simmer and was interested ested cting in studying business, but the acting n. He bug bit him when he was sixteen. h l graduated from the ‘Central School of Speech and Drama’, University of London, in 2004. That very year he won a Manchester Evening News Theatre Award for Best Newcomer, for his performance in Kes at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre; he won the Outstanding Newcomer Award at the 2006 Evening Standard Theatre Awards. Interestingly, in 2007, the very same year that he made his feature film debut, he was The Amazing Garfield May 2014 Introducing the man behind the most famous Spiderman mask in tinsel-town 10 and debuted into the world of cinema in 2007, with the ‘Lions for Lambs’, which had an impressive star cast of Tom Cruise, Meryl Streep and Robert Redford. Talking about his lucky break to ‘Variety’, he’d said, “I’m just lucky to be there working on the same project as them, although I don’t really expect to be recognised later by audiences...” But fate was on his side and he earned international recognition in 2010 when he played a supporting role in ‘The Social Network’, for which he received Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations. Two years later (2012) he received his big break with ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’, a reboot of the Spider-Man series. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Surrey, Garfield’s mother Lynn is from Essex, England and his father, Richard Garfield is from California. When he was three the family moved named by Variety as one of ‘10 Actors to Watch’. His television debut can be traced to 2005 when he appeared in the Channel 4 teen drama, ‘Sugar Rush’. He has also been part of the BBC’s ‘Doctor Who’ series. In 2008 he won the British Academy Television Award for Best Actor for his role as a notorious killer trying to find new life after prison in the Channel 4 ‘Boy A’. Later that year he played a minor role in ‘The Other Boleyn Girl’ and was named one of the shooting stars at the Berlin International Film Festival. In 2010 he co-starred opposite Carey Mulligan and Keira Knightley in ‘Never Let Me Go’ and called the experience a ‘dream come true’. The film was an adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel of the same name. When he was cast as Spider-Man opposite Emma Stone, Garfield saw it as a massive challenge, but described the role of Peter as someone he could relate to. Garfield admitted to shedding tears and trying to imagine ‘a better actor in the suit’ when he first wore his costume. He is rumoured to be in a relationship with his co-star Emma Stone. According to director Marc Webb, the chemistry between Garfield and Stone made her the clear choice. Apparently, that chemistry inspired their off-screen romance. Myriam Fares’ looks questioned M yriam Fares’ fans and critics are certain that her good looks are fake… Fans have expressed their shock when an old picture of her surfaced on the Internet earlier this month. The ‘new and enhanced’ singer looked different back then. Although it’s normal for celebs to have plastic surgery, she has always maintained that she has never been under the knife. According to Future TV Network she has a more defined nose and fuller lips. S Elevator fight… olange, Jay Z and Beyonce have released a statement on the elevator fight issue; Jay and Solange have each assumed their share of responsibility for what has occurred. According to the statement, they have patched things up since their fight at a Met Gala after-party. The statement came days after the release of a surveillance video of Solange attacking her brother-in-law in a hotel elevator. Emma Stone is struggling to keep weight on W May 2014 Sandra Bullock’s inspirational speech 12 Sandra Bullock surprised graduates of Warren Easton Charter High School at their commencement ceremony at the University of New Orleans’ Lakefront Arena with a touching speech. She encouraged the students to “raise the bar higher” and said: “It is noisy out there and for some reason, people want to see you fail. That’s not your problem; that is their problem. I only remember the moments where I tried beyond what I thought I could do and I do not remember the failures because I didn’t. Nothing’s a failure, it’s just not supposed to work out that way because something better is supposed to come along.” hile the rest of the world is worrying about keeping their weight off, Emma stone has admitted that ‘keeping weight on is a struggle’ for her. It is difficult to keep the weight on, she says “…especially when I’m under stress, and especially as I’ve gotten older.” She adds: “It can be really challenging in today’s world for anyone— especially girls and women—to feel good about their bodies. No matter how things look from the outside, we can all be super critical of ourselves and of our image in the mirror.” Michael Jackson At Billboard Music Awards 2014 The late Michael Jackson stole the show at the 2014 Billboard Music Awards with a computer-generated hologram performance. However, reports in the media suggest that Jackson’s performance was made possible not by a hologram but by using a two-dimensional illusion technique, which is widely known as ‘Peppers’s Ghost’. Tittle a “To be honest, before I had [my daughter], I never really gave racism or discrimination a lot of thought… I realise that racism and discrimination are still alive, and just as hateful and deadly as they ever have been. …I want my daughter growing up in a world where love for one another is the most important thing.” May 2014 M - Kim Kardashian opens up about her worries that her daughter will be the victim of racism in her future unless things change. 14 “Being vegan, it’s basically no dairy, no meat, everything is just plant based and just from the ground. I love that I’m eating more greens. It makes you feel so much better. Butter is the one thing I miss! Butter makes everything taste better.” - Jennifer Lopez, who has turned into a super-healthy vegan, still yearns for butter. “I can’t see the future, but one thing I do know is that I’m not childless. I have a ton of children in my life. I can have a kid any second, if I want. It’s not like I’m the spinster who didn’t have a child. I just didn’t do that in life, and I’m OK with that.” - Cameron Diaz clarifies that her choice to have not had children is completely her own. “I think it is sublime. She is beautiful and smart and he is happy and that’s what matters to me.” - Julia Roberts, a close friend and colleague of George Clooney, is happy for him and his wife-to-be Amal Alamuddin. “I definitely have been cheated on. You’re heartbroken and you have to heal that. I personally think the best revenge is just walking away and not wasting another second of your time with someone who’s clearly emotionally handicapped.” - Model and actress Kate Upton admits that she has been cheated on in the past. - Angelina Jolie reveals that – at one time – she didn’t think she’d find true love and have a family; her actor parents had separated just a year after she was born. May 2014 Ma May “I never thought I’d have children, I never thought I’d be in love, I never thought I’d meet the right person. Having come from a broken home - you kind of accept that certain things feel like a fairytale, and you just don’t look for them.” 15 15 cover STORY TIE that KNOT in STYLE Be it a fairy tale one or a simple ceremony, converting a dream wedding into a reality demands expertise that can come easily through a wedding planner May 2014 All set to tie the knot, but not sure how to go about planning the big day? 16 You are not alone…according to wedding planners, that is a common dilemma of most brides-to-be who, thanks to the cultural influences, have nurtured the ideals of that perfect wedding day; one that will be the highlight of their lives and become a talking point in the society. For perfection on that special day is not only about becoming the cynosure of everyone’s eyes in a designer wedding attire and flattering makeup; it is also to do – more so – with the theme, the catering, the hall décor…all of which combine to reflect the couple’s tastes and preferences, not forgetting the status in the society! There is no denying that the way a wedding day pans out is, generally, dependent on the wealth at the disposal of the bride- and the groom-to-be. From the selection of the May 2014 cover STORY venue and the menu to the centre stage décor and the theme around the hall…it all spells money. The more exclusive the wedding, the more the moolah required for that perfect flavour. And with wedding planners taking on the onus of appending ‘grand’ to the wedding ceremony, that price factor has become all the more crucial. However, entrusting the task of planning and implementing the details of the ceremony to the experts is not just about flaunting money or keeping up to the trends in the market, it is more about getting the job done without any hassles. With the wedding market not showing any signs of slowing down, the demand for wedding planners is on an upbeat. The themes are getting elaborate, with details that can put the best of events to shame; in fact, there is a constant demand to work on themes that are newer and fresher and ones that can grab the eyeballs of the guests attending the ceremony. Although the process of hiring a wedding planner has the sound and feel of money, often it is about the idea and the details that go into making it a reality. “Everyone comes with huge dreams and they get disappointed when the budget does not allow it,” notes Maryam Al Mandhari of Dazzle Events, adding that budgets are always an issue. However, budgets can be made workable and details can be simplified to match the same. But that requires one to be clear about what one wants and how the budget can be worked around the same. “When you know your budget, it is easier for us to tell you what package can fit into that budget,” she explains. This would mean weaving dreams of that special day around the budget and making it easier for the wedding designer to create it accordingly. 18 Dazzle events*, which was previously known as K. Designs, is one of Oman’s few creative wedding planners in Oman. Operational from 2007, it caters to a host of activities, ranging from weddings and corporate events to birthdays and private functions. “We are concentrating more on weddings; that’s what I love to do best. A lot of detail goes into that…a lot of preparation,” she states. From the venue to the menu While wedding planners abroad take on the mantle of organising every aspect of the wedding – some from the engagement to the honeymoon planners in Oman concentrate mainly on designing the reception hall, and offer consultation services regarding related aspects. Generally speaking, a wedding planner does everything - book the hall, the caterer and everything associated with the big day. “But we don’t do that,” says Maryam, explaining “Everyone comes with huge dreams and they get disappointed when the budget does not allow it,” - Maryam Al Mandhari cover S STORY T May 20 Ma May 2 2014 01 14 4 that there isn’t really a market for such elaborate planning in Oman. “Everyone, mostly, prefers to do it on their own,” she adds. However, the key is planning ahead and, as Maryam recommends, two months in advance is ideal if the planner is required to start from the scratch, i.e. look into all the aspects, ranging from all the little details to designing the concept. “A lot of brides usually come six to seven months in advance, which is perfectly fine; but alas, we also get brides who come two weeks prior to the wedding… Of course, we always manage to get something for them,” she affirms. As far as Dazzle Events is concerned, the planning involves providing the entire setup of the hall itself; everything that has to do with the hall, from lighting to carpet to chair... Although catering is not handled by Dazzle Events, they do recommend the ones they have worked with before. And that is mainly because most locals prefer to book their own caterers or select the menu in the reception hotel. “Foreigners are the ones who prefer going to one place and getting everything done together,” she points out. Her company caters to both Omanis as well as expatriates; in fact, they do get a lot of Indian weddings. Often, it is the bride, her mother and the groom’s mother (rarely, if ever, is the groom involved) that plans and finalises the details of the wedding. But if things have to move smoothly, the bride needs to be sure of what exactly she wants. “Sometimes we get brides-to-be who have no idea of what they want and it becomes difficult for us to picture that perfect day and how it will turn out. They might have seen many different things...but have failed to focus on that specific thing they want in their wedding; it ends up being a mix of all things. The bride to be should have a vision of what she wants - at least a colour theme, if not a concept, like say vintage or fairy tale wedding. Even if she went to a shop and took a picture of something that she liked, we could create a whole theme around it for her. She should have at least a background idea of what it is she is going for. And then I could bring the rest to her,” maintains Maryam. The themes could range from vintage and classical to fairy tale and even snow, depending on the moods and whims of the brides. 19 19 cover STORY Interestingly, brides today are open to experimenting with novel themes and ideas. “A lot of brides come with unrealistic themes,” she notes, narrating an incident where the bride-to-be wanted a theatrical theme. “She literally wanted physical people on the table, performing as centrepieces,” she quips. While they are open to challenging themes, it is the classical weddings and even vintage that score over the others. Venues According to Maryam, 80 percent of the weddings take place in hotels. Other options could range from gardens to newly opened golf centres, as well as open outdoors, which are fast gaining popularity for tented weddings. While homes have remained a traditional alternative, farms are also being sought for more intimate events. The outdoor is, obviously, preferred during the winters, but there is no season for weddings in Oman, says Maryam. “The only time that weddings take a break is during the Ramadan season. It is most popular during the wintertime - it starts around November and goes on until March,” she states. At times, though, the outdoors can prove to be a challenge, like the time they had an afternoon wedding on the turtle beach area at Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa. “We had set up tents there. It was a beautiful day, with no high winds. But just an hour before the wedding was scheduled to begin, heavy winds came in from nowhere. All the centrepieces on the tables were falling…it was chaotic; but we managed to place stones around and keep the ceremony moving,” she recalls. Trends May 2014 Currently the trends favour the vintage look, opines Maryam. “A lot of people, however, like the mirror effect, so it is glitter, a lot of crystals, mirrors…” she adds, including creams and pinks in the colour palette. Everything is custom-made to meet the requirements of the patrons; however, certain budgeted weddings are undertaken with the props and stage décor materials already available with them. “It is when people come with a whole new theme that we customise the wedding entirely,” she explains. Colours: As far as the colours are concerned, there is a shift from the stark whites. “Now it is more about creams and golds and laces; a lot of people love laces. We are also introducing more colours into the wedding. We are using crazy colours like fuchsias and purples and greens and bringing a whole new concept to the simple classy wedding. The idea is to turn it into a more elaborate affair by adding a lot more colour to the backgrounds… We have quite a few of those happening this year,” she says. Flowers: Fresh flowers add to the décor, more so in setting the tables, but the centre stage could be put together with artificial flowers to get the right 20 effect. The use of artificial flowers is, often, dependent on the choices made by the bride-to-be. Favours: The popularity of wedding favours has also meant incorporating the wedding theme into the gifts. It is also incorporated into the tissue boxes and even the water bottles placed on the table. Budget Footnote Dazzle Events has plans to expand the wedding planner part of the business to include wedding and bridesmaid dresses to cater to majority of the clients who are bogged down by the prices of wedding costumes. The objective is to introduce affordable dresses. Aishelaqtta Blog Updates WHAT’S HAPPENING? WELL HERE ARE A FEW HIGHLIGHTS OF THE LATEST BUZZ AROUND TOWN, WHICH WERE FEATURED IN THE BLOG (THERE MIGHT BE MORE, SO LOOK IT UP) I am here to keep you informed of what you might have missed on the social media world and beyond! The summer heat is in at full force, but it has not stopped events from happening in the local community. As the saying goes ‘the news never sleeps’ and I can relate that to the blogging community. This month I had the pleasure of being a guest on the Oman FM radio during the ‘Knowledge Talk’ programme; must say that it’s easier to speak on the radio than having to present in front of an audience, which brings me to mention the Toastmasters Conference, scheduled for mid May. There are a few craft fairs on the agenda with the Down Syndrome Parents Group arranging a meet-up to support the centre and enhance awareness. The biggest craft fair, which you shouldn’t miss is the Crafty in Oman Summer Fair - there would be a lot of surprises in store with bespoke crafts display made by Facebook members of the group. You would need to follow the blog to stay posted with all that would be in store and other upcoming fairs for this month. The biggest local news to hit the media forums was the ‘2-year visa ban’, which will affect a lot of the expat community. There is a post about it on Aishelaqtta with a deeper prospective from expat local bloggers sharing their concerns with the new rule. On a happier note, the first Red Bull Art Dribble was introduced via various colleges, and universities where students designed and created their own foosball players, winning prizes for best design and creative concepts. The hot weather has not hindered activities in the local scene. You can expect the summer programmes and activities to start soon seeing that schools are coming to an end and summer holidays are upon us. You can expect to know more about what’s going on via the blog, since I am determined to keep posting reasons for you to make the best of this season. There is never a reason for you to be cooped up indoors in Muscat. Get out and have some fun. There will sure be a lot of others doing the same thing! Visit: D. Al-Riyami’s blog at: http: //aishelaqtta.blogspot.com/ Instagram: @aishelaqtta, E-mail: [email protected] May 2014 What adds to the novelty of most ceremonies is the fact that most brides today are savvy and are aware of the trends and choices available; they know exactly what they want. The crunch occurs when the budget is limited. However, Maryam allays the thought that one needs substantial saving to have a perfect wedding by stating that budgets are totally dependent on the packages chosen. “We have a certain budget that we start with, and, often, the price is dependent on the venue. For example, house weddings require a smaller budget and could range anywhere from 300 rials and more. If it is a bigger wedding, and in a hall, it could start from 750 rials and above; it all depends on what the client wants. One also needs to remember that the weddings here are massive – at the last wedding, we catered to 950 people,” she explains. Whether weddings are made in heaven or not, the perfect dream wedding is best realised when the task is entrusted to a good wedding planner! 21 in CONVERSATION Health & May 2 Ma May 20 2014 014 “ 22 22 W hat really brought me here was my colon cancer, which I contracted in 2007; it changed my life a hundred percent,” explains Adrian Foster, tracing his sixyear long tenure in Oman. He arrived in 2008 and joined Gulf Investments and Development (Offshore Investment Brokers - OIB) as the Financial Consultant. It was a year earlier, while he was working as a financial advisor in his native South Africa that his life completely turned around. “I was fit as a fiddle; everything was going on well when suddenly, the doctors discovered that I have colon cancer. I had a large tumour and had to undergo a major surgery. I had to be in the hospital for an entire month and my weight dropped from 98 kilograms to 65. I could hardly walk…” he recalls. It took him two years to recover from the ailment. The first year he recuperated in the family farm in South Africa, reading and soaking in all the information related to heath and wellness. It sparked his interests in health and diet and motivated him to study and research alternate remedies. He’d declined to undergo chemotherapy or radiation as preventive measures and relied on his acquired knowledge to build up his strength and gain a sense of normalcy. He consumed mainly natural foods and followed a wellness diet and now, seven years later, he is totally fit. Among many of his alternate remedies is the consumption of apricot kernel, the use of which he traces to an apricot-growing region in Pakistan, where people are free from cancers, heart attacks and diabetes. Apricot kernels, he says, contain Vitamin B 17, which is like a natural chemotherapy, Wealth: The Adrian Foster Way Adrian Foster, Founder of Boot Camp Zulu and Financial Advisor at Offshore Investment Brokers, presents a balanced dose of wealth and wellness killing all free radicals and cancer cells. “I chew one everyday,” states Foster, who regularly gets invited to give health talks at various events in the country. When he arrived in Oman 2008, he found a base to explore his passion for health and fitness through Boot Camp Zulu, which he founded in May 2010. Describing his move into this phase of life, he says: “I come from a very sporting background. I play rugby, cricket, tennis…have done marathons and all sorts of things. It was, however, when I met couples as the financial advisor of OIB that I realised the need for a rigorous health and wellness programme.” It was the complaints from housewives regarding their sedentary lifestyles and the accumulating weight that prodded him to chalk out a boot camp programme and start the Boot Camp Zulu. “I called it Zulu because I come from KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and speak Zulu fluently,” he states. He placed an advertisement through the Women’s Guild of Oman, urging people who wanted to drop a dress size or get healthy, to contact him. “I thought I might get about 15 to 20 people…but we had 120 registering in just one hour. I knew it was bigger than I’d thought, and that’s how it started,” states Foster. In the last four years, more than 700 people have undertaken the boot camp, which is a four week programme with three one-hour sessions every week. “At the moment we have the ongoing Operation Summer Slim, which is the new eight-week summer programme,” he notes. Basically, boot camp is held every month, beginning from the first Sunday. Training is held every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, with three sessions everyday: 5.30 am (called the Dawn Patrol), 7.45 am (Desperate Housewives) and 5.30 pm (Dusk Patrol) – the evening session will be moved to 6 pm during the summer months. And with the onset of Ramadan, the evening session will be shifted to 9 pm to meet the requirements of the fasting Muslims. Training is of every unit, there is a passing out parade function. While boot camp explains his passion for sports, adventure and all things fitness, his profession as a financial consultant demonstrates his knowledge of managing finances and handling probable risks. He has been in this line of work for the past 25 years, having attained a post-graduate degree in financial planning. Underlining the importance of investing in various packages, including medical and retirement, he points out that his own Critical Illness cover saved his life when the lumpsum payout removed any form of financial stress from his life while he recovered. Looking positively at the way his life has panned out, he reiterates that cancer changed his life. “I have travelled the world. I am meeting people…doing things that my colleagues and friends back home only dream about…” he states. He is now fit and rearing to explore and realise his dreams. He has three sons and three grandchildren; the youngest, Lyle is a crossfit trainer and currently helping him with the Boot Camp in Muscat in CONVERSATION held on the beach at Shatti al Qurum and The Wave, Muscat. “We have had fantastic results; we have had people who have lost 15 to 20 kilograms, who have no longer required medication, while others have felt energised and healthy,” he points out, and goes on to explain the importance of maintaining a waist-size of 34 or 36-inch - depending on the gender to reduce the chances of most critical illnesses. The focus is on wellness and fitness, with diet tips and guidelines, including detox, which is apart from the regular training sessions. Many of the trainees continue beyond the four-week session; however, at the end Up Close & Personal with Adrian Foster What I see when I look in the mirror... A positive and contended person. My greatest regret... Not having experienced this expatriate life earlier. You may not know it but I’m very good at… Making people feel comfortable and motivating them to enjoy what they are doing. If I have time to myself... I will go fishing. I have fished at different destinations; the memorable one was catching trout in New Zealand. My house is... Is still a dream… on my getaway farm. My favourite haunt/holiday destination... Msikaba on The Wild Coast of South Africa; it is untouched and fishing is beautiful. My favourite weekend spot in Oman… I love camping, but the favourite spot would be the Turtle Beach Resort at Ras Al Had I will not leave my house without… My mobile phone, wallet, cards, hat and glasses. Five things I like about Oman… Friendly and welcoming nature of the people; it is safe; has lovely winters and beautiful countryside. A book that changed me... ‘Think And Grow Rich’ by Napoleon Hill. On top of my wish/bucket list is... On top was climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, which I completed early this year; the next is America and Spain, which I will do this summer… That leaves France. My success mantra is... Do it now! In 10 years’ time, I hope to be… Living on my dream Getaway. The happiest time of my life was when I was farming and I want to go back to it. May 2014 The home I grew up in... I grew up on a farm near the village of Ixopo with a large thatched farmhouse and big fireplace, When I was a child I wanted to... Become a vet – I loved the animals - but it was teaching I took to where I taught geography and physical education. The moment that changed me forever... When I was diagnosed with cancer in 2007. My greatest inspiration... My rugby coach at school; he instilled tremendous values in me. My hero… My grandfather. If I could change one thing about myself... It would be to be able to say ‘no’ and not take on everything. I dream of... Building a health and fitness getaway, which will provide a holistic experience to guests. 23 in the SPOTLIGHT S May 2014 marty Shopper, a mobile application that aims to assist shoppers with visual impairment, is all set to capture the imagination of shoppers in the country. Created by ‘Team Shadow’, a hybrid team of students from Higher College of Technology (HCT), Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and University College of Applied Sciences (UCAS), for the recently concluded ‘Imagine Cup 2014’ in Oman, the app is designed to provide verbal input regarding the product - from the expiration date to the ingredients – by simply scanning the barcode. 24 Smarty Shopper: An App To Assist Visually Impaired Shoppers Team Shadow’s ‘Smarty Shopper’ application bagged Microsoft’s ‘Imagine Cup 2014’ for Oman The team comprising Omaima Al Marikhi and Muzna Al Ghafri from SQU, Tamim Al Qasmi from HCT and Muzna Al Hosni from UCAS came up with the Smarty Shopper app to win the National competition in the ‘World Citizenship’ category. The Smarty Shopper scans a product’s barcode and reads loudly the details such as the price, expiration date and other information related to ingredients and calories. It was Tamim’s idea, which the rest of the team members found attractive and worked on to win the cup. “We found the idea amazing and decided to go ahead with the idea of participating in Imagine Cup,” recalls Omaima. They worked on it for twoweeks before the submission date. “It was the best idea and each one of us contributed to the idea to give it a final shape,” she adds. They will now represent Oman at the Pan-Arab finals in Qatar in the first week of June, along with ‘Team Positive Beam’ from the Higher College of Technology, who won the Innovation Category. Their entry was ‘Easy Talk’, a social application that allows people to chat using their own language, while the application translates simultaneously based on the receiver’s language preference. The winners were announced at the awards ceremony, which was hosted by Omantel on 29 April and attended by representatives from Microsoft, ITA, Omantel and National Youth Commission. For the 3rd year since 2012, Oman came 2nd among the Gulf countries in terms of the number of participating students and submitted projects. in the SPOTLIGHT It is a mobile application, which the members of ‘Team Shadow’ hope to convert into a device later, so as to expand its advantages and coverage. Explaining about the app, they point out that the user can simply scan the product - the bar code or the QR code – and get an audio input about the product. “The app is directed towards people who have visual impairment, and also elderly and illiterate people,” they state, explaining that it is currently made in English version, with plans to have it in Arabic too. The team is in talks with institutes like Omar bin Khattab Institute for the Blind and Al Noor Association for the Blind, who have shown interest in trying the application and testing it with their members. “They have different kinds of situations and we can test it with them; Check it to see if it is okay or needs more improvements and changes,” notes Muzna Al Ghafri. The app, however, will be dependent on the database, which will be updated by trusted entities. The product information will be requested from concerned parties to ensure that it is genuine and accurate. “We just need to enter the QR code and add information,” explains Tamim, pointing out that the system will convert the text to voice. The Shadow Team is also aware that they need corporate support to turn the app into a market reality. They are currently working on making the app a practical reality. Plans are also on to make the app specific to different markets and even shopping malls. Currently, they are working on developing a scanner – a talking scanner – which could be placed on the trolleys in supermarkets and which can help visually impaired shoppers scan information. “The trolley itself will have the device,” states Tamim. They plan to start in small supermarkets and gradually move on to bigger markets. For now, the team plans to work on the app and increase its features and viability before the Pan-Arab competitions from June 1 to 4 at Doha Qatar.They will take into consideration all the feedback received from the panel of judges to add value to the app and increase their chances of bagging the Pan-Arab trophy. While Omaima has savoured success at the 2012 Imagine Cup with her team’s entry, which was adjudged one of the top 20 at the finals in Sydney, the rest are first-timers who agree they have a lot of work to put in before the June competition and are rearing to go. The experience of working on a service that is aimed at helping people has been motivation enough for all the four. While the power to bring about a positive change was Omaima’s driving force, for Muzna, it was all about trying things on a new platform and giving a practical flavour to the theoretical study at the university. The Imagine Cup also exposes participants to Microsoft’s BizSpark programme, where all entrepreneurs meet and present ideas, which might interest investors. It acts as a platform to connect with the right people. Although Imagine Cup has been an annual feature for the past 11 years, it is only the third for Oman. If the ‘Shadow Team clears the Pan-Arab contest, they will make it to the finals at Seattle. “I think we have already reached Seattle,” quips Tamim. May 2014 Smarty Shopper App 25 feast ON At The Beach Pavilion Savour nature in its envious glory, as you feast on some of the scrumptious seafood in this part of the world May ay 2014 I 26 f you belong to the large tribe of Muscat residents who cannot refrain from chanting the clichéd ‘it’s-so-hot’ summer mantra and have mastered the art of stringing all conversations to the rising temperature, the irksome humidity and the scorching sun, visit Beach Pavilion for a change of heart; it just might alter your attitude to summer. The long stretch of cheerful green lawns, the lazy palm trees and the serene feel of the infinity pool is designed to dull the summer pangs and magically infuse cool notes to create a cocoon of summer respite. Stretching seamlessly along the shoreline with the mountains acting as natural bastions, Beach Pavilion is a perfect destination for guests seeking their share of summer sun and a luxuriant dining option. Located in the plush Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton Hotel, it is a world in itself. As you make your way from the Hotel’s aweinspiring lobby to the nature logged outdoor and indoor restaurant, you just might experience the trav to a secluded and exotic destination. surreal effect of unplanned time travel There is a feel of romance in the ai air, as you catch glimpses of vacationers simpl soaking in the pool. lounging on the beach beds or simply Ho The little stretch of walk from the Hotel’s lobby to this warm enclave is sure effec of the green foliage in the foreground, to stump you with the combined effect sh the azure blue skies around, the shimmery shoreline, the tranquil pool, the soft white sand and the open-air feel of the indoor re s t a u r a n t ; glass the panelled walls, facing the sea, adding to the charm. The al fresco seating may not be popular during the summer months, but the ever-smiling staff of the restaurant note that dinner guests ill prefer f h outdoors, d i h the h still the with evening air turning pleasant even during this time of the year. Dining feast ON the grilled squid ot all rolls that got our votes. The scrumptious taste d still of the squid lingers… ncluded The mains included ‘Marinated BBQ beef Panini’, ‘Classic beach burger’ and ‘Local jumbo prawns’. The burger varieties make up huge portions, n entire covering an platter, and best ordered if you have a good appetite ered it without or have ordered ppetisers any appetisers he preceding it. Th The rawnss , jumbo prawns, yster black served in oyster peppercorn sauce, are perfect if you are a seafood fanatic like us. To finish off this sensorial experience, we got into the dessert mode with Bedouin affogato’ affogato – date ice cream, ‘Bedouin espresso, roasted nuts and dried fruits; ‘Omani tiramisu’ - Omani coffee, chocolate cylinder and candied chestnuts; and ice creams and sorbets. That was a perfect finale. And now for a starlit rendezvous at the Beach Pavilion… May 20 Ma May 2 2014 01 14 4 under a starlit sky, with the hum of waves hitting the shore in the background, there are few places in the country that come close to the exquisiteness of Beach Pavilion for foodies who are drawn to the beach. While we opted for the luncheon and left the starlit dining for another day, it was the exotic feel of the restaurant, cocooned from all sides to open up a panoramic view of the summer-quietened sea, that held us in its thrall from the very beginning. The view is simply breathtaking, and as we soaked in the charms of the restaurant, the ever-friendly Chef Alvin set our appetite on top gear with a roundup of the new lunch menu, which features an exotic array of grilled and baked seafood. Thanks to the greenery and the large open spaces, the air around the restaurant was unusually cool; yet, it was summer coolers that set our luncheon in motion. From fresh watermelon to lime and mint, the refreshing flavours added to the cool notes within and outside the restaurant. With the lunch menu including some of the freshest c a t c h e s from local fishermen as well as i m p o r t e d seaf ood, a scrumptious meal is guaranteed. There is a ‘Burger Bar’ inserted into the menu to cater to guests who are looking for a quick meal. But well, quick is what you would hardly want in a destination as gloriously vilion. We were game for a long lunch and relied d on Chef pleasing as Beach Pavilion. he dishes for us and he got us on with the succulentt smoked Alvin to recommend the e (bite-sized hors d’oeuvre). This was followed by starters, salmon amuse bouche ortions and could act as a complete meal if you are eating which come in big portions alone. Our assortmentt of starters included: ‘Salt and pepper squid’ with green e dressing and green horseradish mayonnaise; ‘Roasted lettuce, soybean-lime heese’, including olives, cashew nuts, Arabic bread chips vegetables and feta cheese’, and maple balsamic dressing; and ‘Lime pepper chicken salad’ with green lettuce, tomato, sweett apricot, roasted peanut crumble and honey mustard. d While the vegetable was crispy and savoury in its balsamic dressing, it was Photographs: Pushpender Sharma arma 27 let’s COOK For The Seafood Gourmand Try out these easy recipes from Chef Alvin of Beach Pavilion, Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton Hotel Grilled Omani Tuna Fillet Ingredients (for Grilled Tuna Fillet) Fresh tuna fillet – 180 grams Lemon juice – 1tspn Salt & pepper – to taste Ingredients (for Basil Yoghurt Sauce) Tuna Tartar Ingredients (for tuna marinade) Sugar – 20 grams White vinegar – 30ml Fresh tuna – 800 grams Lime juice - 50ml Orange juice - 100ml (reduce to 30%) Ginger – 25 grams Soy sauce – 15 grams Mirin – 30 ml (flavouring) Garlic - 1 clove Honey – 40 grams BBQ sauce – 5 grams Oyster sauce – 20 ml Sea salt – 5 grams Coriander - for flavour (chopped) Method Sauté sesame seeds in a frying pan and add the rest of the ingredients; cook until soft. Ingredients (for avocado mouse) Method Mix all the ingredients by whisking and marinade the diced fresh tuna in this just before you serve. Ingredients (for papaya chutney) Sesame seeds, black & white – 1tbspn Papaya, diced – 200 grams Fresh Avocado - 1 Crème fraiche – 1tbspn Mayonnaise – 20 grams Lime juice - 1 Sugar – 1tspn Salt – a pinch Method Mix all ingredients together in a blender. The ratio is up to your taste Garnish Red radish and Balsamic vinegar reduction Bedouin Affogato Ingredients (serves 10) May 2014 Vanilla ice cream – 120 grams Almond flakes – 15 grams Pistachio sticks – 10 grams Dried fruits – 15 grams Espresso – 40 ml Icing sugar 28 Date ice cream Vanilla ice cream – 120 grams Fresh date chutney – 12 grams Method 1. Place two scoops of ice cream in a bowl. 2. Put the nuts and the dried fruits on top of the ice cream. 3. Dust some icing sugar on top. 4. Before you serve, add the espresso into the ice cream. Fresh basil pesto – 15 grams Yoghurt (drained) – 50 grams Lime juice – 10 grams Sugar – 5 grams Salt – to taste Mix it all together and keep in a chiller Ingredients (for Peperonata) Bell peppers (red & yellow) – 1 each (skinned off and diced into chunky pieces) Capers (pickled flower buds) – 1tspn Black olives – 1tbspn (sliced) Artichoke – 1 (cut into 4) Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, rosemary) 1/2tspn (finely chopped) Method 1. Heat olive oil in a pan and add the bell peppers and sauté for about two minutes (peppers should be al dente – cooked, but with a little crunch left in them). 2. Add the rest of the ingredients and sauté for another 1 – 2 minutes. 3. Place on top of the grilled tuna before serving. Blood Donate Life L Donating blood is like giving life to not one, but three people, states Anu Bahl, Dietician and Clinical Nutritionist, urging everyone to donate blood and mark the World Blood Donor Day on 14 June vitamin deficiency anaemia are the most common and can be cured by proper nutrition. Iron Dietary iron is of two types ‘heme iron’ and ‘non heme iron’. ‘Heme iron’ is absorbed more readily by the body - around 15-20 percent. Major sources of that iron are red meat, liver, oysters, poultry and fish. One has to be careful with the portion sizes and method of preparation of these foods. They should be steamed, boiled, grilled or roasted. ‘Non heme iron’ sources are beans, (kidney, lima, pinto) nuts, lentils, seeds (garden cress), green vegetables and fortified cereals. But the body absorbs only 3-5 percent of it. To increase the absorption of iron from ‘non heme’ sources, Vitamin C rich foods (cantaloupes, citrus fruits, and berries) should be consumed along with these foods. Food should be cooked in iron utensils and ‘non heme’ sources should be consumed with ‘heme’ sources to increase absorption. Add folate rich foods to your diet. Avoid combining the following foods with food that are non-heme iron sources: Dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt, ice cream, and milk. Tea, coffee, alcohol and soft drinks taken with meals can act as iron blockers; as might excess consumption of high fibre foods or bran supplements. Canned and processed food containing EDTA, which is a common preservative. If taking iron through supplements don’t combine it with calcium sources. For Blood Donors: z Keep yourself hydrated before blood donation and drink lots of fluid after donating, to avoid blood pressure fluctuations; avoid carbonated drinks. z Avoid fatty foods 24-hours before blood donation. z Eat diet rich in Iron, Vitamin C and folic acid and protein before and after donation May 2014 atest research shows that people who donate at least twice a year cut their chances of heart disease by at least 70 percent (in men and postmenopausal women). As we know, iron is an essential component of haemoglobin in blood and if in excess can lead to hardening of arteries and to atherosclerosis. When you donate blood, you lose 225-250mg of iron, which removes the excess and cuts your risk of heart disease and formation of free radicals. When you go for a blood donation, you also get a mini health checkup, which can detect diseases like AIDS, Syphilis, Hepatitis-B, etc., at an early stage. Of course, your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also checked, and, above all, is the satisfaction of helping someone in need and giving back to the society. In order to be healthy and to be able to donate blood the haemoglobin levels should be at least 12.5g/dL, and, for that, proper nutrition is a must. Unless you have a disease, which involves blood loss, low absorption or poor RBC production, you can easily improve your haemoglobin levels. The body needs iron to make haemoglobin. If there isn’t enough iron available, haemoglobin production is limited, which in turn affects the production of red blood cells (RBCs). A decreased amount of haemoglobin and red cells in the bloodstream is known as anaemia. Though anaemia is of many types, iron deficiency and healthy BITES Donate 29 Health CHECK Pre-marital Health Check W Before you and your partner say ‘I do’, pause and rewind to assess if your health is in order hether you decide to take on a wedding planner or go about it your own way, you would want to get your act together at least six-months ahead, to iron out all the creases and ensure that everything goes on smoothly. You would, probably, burn midnight lamp, poring over the elaborate details and painstakingly working out each one of them so that every minute aspect of the wedding is executed to perfection. But…in the voluminous checklists drawn, is there any mention of a health check? Have you and your spouse-to-be taken time to assess the medical needs and initiate a positive start to your marriage? With so much focus on the wedding ceremony, it is understandable that ‘health’ failed to make a mark on the list; health is, usually, the last thing on the minds of the grooms- and the brides-to-be. In the euphoria of planning a dream wedding and putting it through, health, rarely, if ever, rears its clinical head. But as marriage, often, means creation of a family, the importance of a pre-marital health check cannot be overemphasised. It might sound unromantic and severe, but health, as they say, is what you need to keep in check if you want to lead a long and fulfilling life with your bride/groom to be. Although pre-marital medical checkups can be done any time, it should, ideally, be done six months before the wedding, say experts. You could attend the appointments together or do it separately, with the objective of feeling reassured of a healthy life ahead. According to a marriage guru, the best way to go about it is start with a full physical examination and participate as a couple in the consultation afterwards. The following could act as a guideline to get you going on a pre-marital health check… May 2 Ma May 20 2014 014 4 Physical exam: A complete general physical exam that includes laboratory testing and a discussion about the family medical history and potential health risks is important for both you and your future spouse. Chronic disorders like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, etc., are manageable conditions, but they have serious implications for 30 30 Schedule a visit to the gynaecologist to check for any abnormalities and rule out HIV. Undiagnosed sexually transmitted diseases like pelvic inflammatory disease can have a devastating effect on the marriage. Your doctor can also help you decide the type of birth control that is best for you and your future fertility. Find out from your health care provider if you and your spouse-to-be need genetic testing. Undertake tests to assess if either of you are carriers of any genes that could manifest as a disease in your children, like thalassemia (a genetic blood disorder where a baby cannot produce enough red blood cells and will need a blood transfusion very often), cancers, juvenile diabetes, mental disorders, etc. Blood grouping tests: One of the essential tests to undertake is the blood group test, as it is essential that you both have the same Rh factor (Rhesus factor, which Footnote: The objective behind pre-marital medical check up is not to put a stop to an impending marriage based on the results, but to correct the problems or find a solution to overcome them, so as to lead a happy and healthy married life. Health CHECK Gynaecology Tests: is indicated in the positive or negative sign that follows your blood groups). During conception or pregnancy, it is vital to discuss with your doctor about the possible complications and take appropriate measures. Psychological tests: The need for psychological tests is pronounced in an arranged marriage to rule out the presence of any mental illness or even clinical depression, which is difficult to ascertain by just looking at a person. While testing for mental illness includes checking for conditions like schizophrenia, depression, mood disorders, mania, etc. the tests should also include behavioural and personality disorders. Conditions like obsessive compulsive personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorders, partner relationship problems, anger management issues, bipolar disorder and many more, could be a part of your partner’s life and need to be addressed. Dietary needs: Understanding the dietary needs of your partner is crucial, as food will, invariably, play a big role in your married life. If your spouse needs to follow a special diet, you need to be aware of it so as to be more sympathetic and supportive of his/her needs May 2 Ma May 2014 014 4 a marriage, as far as the lifestyle is concerned. Understanding the person’s need for continued medical attention is essential to a smooth married life. 31 Health TIDINGS Acupuncture To Fight Belly Fat You could drop your pant size by undergoing acupuncture, according to researchers in South Korea. They found that folks who got acupuncture for eight weeks experienced a 6 percent reduction in Body Mass Index, a smaller waist circumference, and a loss in overall body fat. Stimulating specific points is said to help suppress appetite and increase metabolism. Needles were placed into points on the ear thought to correspond to hunger and activity in the stomach, spleen and endocrine system. Watch Less TV: Pregnant Ladies Cautioned Helmet Therapy For Depression otection Fo r P r es Ey Cof fe e A helmet that delivers electro-magnetic impulses to the brain has shown promise in treating people with depression. The new device targets malfunctioning blood cells in the brain. The device contains seven coils that deliver a dose of Transcranial Pulsating Electro Magnetic Fields (T-PEMF) to brain tissues. The pulses are so minute that the patient cannot detect any sensation, and the only side effect, so far, is occasional ‘tiny’ nausea that immediately disappears after treatment. The pulses activate capillaries in the brain, which form new blood vessels and secrete growth hormones. Less TV might be good for baby’s health, says a new study, which learnt that expectant moms, who regularly eat their meals in front of the TV, continue the habit during the babies’ feedings too. The study noticed that the immediate problem with mothers watching TV during feedings was that they missed the subtle cues that indicate their baby is full, and end up overfeeding their babies. Previous research suggests that youngsters who spend a lot of time in front of the TV, especially during mealtime, are at risk of becoming overweight or obese, the researchers noted. May 2014 Sports Drinks Linked To Unhealthy Behaviours In Adolescents 32 A study has found an association between weekly consumption of sports and energy drinks and higher consumption of other sugary drinks, cigarette smoking and use of screen media. Researchers gathered data from 2,793 adolescents on their height, weight, how often they drink sports and energy drinks, how often they eat breakfast, how much physical activity they engage in, how much time they spend playing video games and watching TV, and whether or not they smoke. Researchers found that consumption of sports and energy drinks contributes to a growing cluster of unhealthy behaviours among adolescents. Advertorial All Natural Weight Management Change your life for the best with Metabolic Balance, the ‘all natural weight management programme’ T he Metabolic Balance Programme was developed in 2002 to eliminate the main causes for the metabolic syndrome – great weight loss, rejuvenated beautiful skin, vitality and enhanced energy, are just some of the fantastic side effects with metabolic balance. Quickly, the programme was recognised as an extremely effective all natural method for optimising health, balancing hormones, reducing weight and permanently keeping excess weight off. Today it is established in 25 different countries and there are more than 600,000 participants worldwide, with about 3,500 coaches; it is expanding rapidly. 80 percent of Metabolic Balance participants are overweight and many also suffer from disturbances related to metabolic syndrome such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus etc. According to reports, at least 2.8 million adults die each year as a result of being overweight or obese. Therefore, one of the goals of Metabolic Balance is prevention of overweight and obesity. What is the difference between Metabolic Balance and other diets or nutrition programmes? What can you expect when you join the all-natural Metabolic Balance programme? z It regulates your weight healthily and naturally z It is not a deprivation diet or a calorie counting diet z No pills, no shakes, no powders, no injections to lose weight… z No cravings and no hunger. An all-natural nutrition and metabolism regulation programme is a lifestyle change and NOT A DIET! Metabolic Balance uses NO processed or packaged foods; it recommends all-natural wholesome foods. Organic foods and foods grown locally are preferred for their health benefits – all foods can be purchased economically in the food markets close to your home. Metabolic Balance is also good for underweight people and can be applied to children above the age of 8 years, athletes, etc. Here’s the story of one of Metabolic Balance client, as narrated by a spokesperson: “The gentleman in the picture came to us with a weight of 110kgs. He wanted to start the Metabolic Balance programme as he felt the quality of his life had dramatically diminished. He had repeatedly tried to lose weight by reducing the quantity of food that he ate, without any success. Further, he complained of poor sleeping habits and that he constantly felt hungry and tired and lacked general motivation in life. “He started the Metabolic Balance Programme in April 2013. One year later, in April 2014, he reached his previous weight of 75kgs. Today he feels very energetic and healthy and is extremely happy with his result. The pictures taken before and after stand testimony to his success. As depicted, his energy levels have increased and he is truly a different person; it has changed his life and his lifestyle.” May 2014 A case study It is time for you to get balanced… Speak today to your certified Metabolic Balance coach about how to get started. Contact: 97303777 www.artemishfp.com 33 man DATE ‘Groom’ For The Big Day A pre-wedding beauty regimen is not the prerogative of brides alone; grooms have an equal stake in the beauty arena A s you get ready to become the cynosure of all eyes on your special day, you might just have to shed your macho stubbornness to all things beauty and adopt certain pre-wedding grooming essentials. After all, it is not everyday that you get married, and looking good will only help boost your confidence, as you face a battalion of guests. Follow these tips and gear up to look your best… Shape up May 20 Ma May 2 2014 014 14 Getting into shape for the big day cannot be left until the last, unless you plan on a drastic diet plan. While popular diets like the one-week GM (General Motors) diet is said to guarantee a weight loss of at least two kilogrammes, it is best to rely on workouts to get into shape for your wedding day. A good diet, replete with necessary vitamins and minerals, will help you get there too. Remember the tried and tested drink-eight-glasses-of-water to obtain a happy glow on your skin. Avoid oily and canned foods and increase the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. 34 34 Facial Yes, you read that right… A good facial will do a wealth of good to your skin and your confidence, more so if you suffer from pimples, dry skin or uneven skin tone. There is no male makeup to cover up these blemishes and it is best to opt for facials or skin treatments like chemical peels or even microdermabrasion to get rid of the skin problems. Visiting a skin specialist, a couple of months before the wedding could help solve the skin issues too. man DATE skin to rejuvenate for the next day. If you have been grooming a beard, trim it along with the moustache. Moisturise Manicure With facial included in the grooming must-do list, can manicure be far behind? Clean, manicured nails not only add that special groomed look, it also helps enhance your personality. Further, neat looking nails will nicely complement that of the bride when you hold her hand. You could even opt for the pedicure if you are okay with the idea of going all out. If visiting a salon isn’t feasible, try filing and trimming your nails at home; use an exfoliating cream to keep the hands looking and feeling hydrated. Neat haircut If you are planning on getting a new haircut to add to the novelty of the day, remember to try it at least a couple of weeks in advance to make sure that it suits you and is also liked by your bride-to-be. Make an appointment in advance with your salon, even if you are only planning on a trim and clean up around the neck. Shaving is, perhaps, one of the mundane tasks of your day, but wedding demands you to go one notch higher and seek a professional shave. Remember all the grooming tips about trimming the nasal hair and all the little tufts sprouting from your ears. Do not be embarrassed to request your hairstylist to undertake all the trimming jobs. Shave your face on the eve of your wedding, so as to allow your A tip to remember: Before getting into your wedding attire, pat your face with a hot towel to soften the hairs and then layer shave with a new razor. Say Cheese Wedding day is all about plastering a neat smile on the face for the endless photo sessions. This demands a set of bright white teeth, which could be easily had with a teeth whitening session at your dentist. Make an appointment with your dentist at least a fortnight before the big day to get the stains cleared. Alternately, you can try some home remedy to get rid of those stains: mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with half a teaspoon of water and brush it all over your teeth. Rinse it well and see the difference. It would help if you cut down on coffee and tea consumption, as well cigarettes. Relaxing massage Feel relaxed and rejuvenated for the day by booking in at a spa close to you. A relaxing massage will ease out all your stress and will make your skin glow before the big day. Alternately, you could opt for exfoliation and facial cleansing treatment to get rid of the dirt and grime clogging your skin pores. Do not forget the beauty sleep of eight hours to keep the dark circles around the eyes away and add radiance to your skin May 20 Ma May 2 2014 014 14 Shave right Follow up your skin cleansing and toning regimen with a moisturiser to protect your skin throughout the day. Begin this regimen at least three-months before your D-day, as cleansing, toning and moisturising are the most important components of a beauty regime. Apply astringent, at least thrice a week, if you have oily skin. If, however, you are working outdoors, rely on a sunscreen with high SPF and wash your face twice a day. 35 35 Relatively SPEAKING To Wed Or Not To Wed… If you are all set to press the shift key in your life and move into the relatively new world of married life, you might want some reassurance on your decision E ven when you know you have met your Ms. or Mr. Right, doubts are bound to arise. ‘Is the time right?’ ‘Should I wait for more time?’ ‘Would the marriage work in the long run…?’ May 20 Ma May 2 2014 14 1 4 With time travel not showing any signs of becoming a reality, you have no way of assessing the future of your wedding. You know the clichéd ‘andthey-lived-happily-ever-after’ can only be a fairy tale affair, and there are few, if any, references to check on the ‘happily married’ concept. These issues are bound to provide food for negative thought and further trigger those doubts. But these doubts are not a cause for concern, assure counsellors, who believe that doubts regarding the person you are marrying are not only normal, but healthy too. They help 36 36 you to prioritise things and weigh the pros and cons of marrying the love of your life. While there are certain pre-conditions for a marriage to start off on the right footing, there are also red alerts that can signal disaster from the word go. These alerts are specifically aimed at those who believe in the hyped up versions of ‘unconditional love’. But, of course, any sane individual would know, instinctively, that marrying someone who drinks too much, spends too much, over-works, brags all the time, or is unfaithful, cruel, or dishonest, is not easy to live with on a long-term basis - unless a drastic change is incorporated into the behaviour. Psychiatrists advice brides- and grooms-to-be to check if their doubts are reasonable and worth paying attention to…or if it is simply a case of having ‘cold feet’ about getting married. Here are some tried and tested methods to help you filter those doubts and assess if you are, indeed, seeking reassurance about your decision or having that last minute cold-feet. Happiness with Emotional Support It is, of course, unreasonable to expect your spouse to make you feel happy all the time; but just being around your Ms/Mr Right is sure to bring happiness and a sense of personal strength to your life. To know if you are marrying the right person, find out if you feel support and encouragement about your own growth, both emotionally and intellectually. The right person will want you to be emotionally healthy and able to stand on your own two feet. When you are with the right person you will feel good about yourself, safe, and fulfilled. One of the important tenets of any marriage is finding someone who is understanding and agreeable to your wants and needs when it comes to physical intimacy and affection. The best way to identify this trait in the spouse-to-be is by understanding that his/her expressions of ‘I love you’ are more in loving actions than words. Loving actions could translate as noticing when you are tired or feeling restless, listening to you and being patient… Marriage counsellors agree that the right person is someone who is a friend. Communication… Two-way communication is the crux of any happy marriage. Obviously, conversations with the right person is bound to be interesting; and the perfect way to identify the ‘right’ quotient is to assess if he/she is communicating his/her thoughts and feelings with you and will not keep hurts and concerns bottled up inside. Ms/Mr Right will be willing to discuss marriage issues, questions, and topics; you will know that the two of you can work through issues that could hurt your relationship. Trust and Honesty You will know you have met your right person when he/she is honest with you. The right person will trust you and not monitor your phone calls or limit the amount of time you spend with others you care about. He/she will not try to isolate you from your family and friends and will not try to control your life. Back off immediately if he/she makes you feel as if you are walking on eggshells when you are around him/her 8 8 Signs That You Are Not Ready 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. You are more concerned with the wedding than the marriage itself and are spending more time planning the wedding details than actually considering the marriage. You can’t seem to find that critical trust; remember, no relationship can survive without trust. You cannot visualise the prospect of parenting his/her child, especially when you are entering into a relationship with a single parent. You have only recently met and started dating. Studies have shown a distinction in the divorce rate based on the number of years a couple dates. You are not ready for any compromise – that is a major red alert. You can sense the pressure on you to get married from different sources. Marriage should only be entered by the free will of two people who love and respect one another. d You are investing more than you can afford to lose. If you have to give up your family or friends, it is just not right. Your mind is still wandering. There is still a niggling feeling that someone better looking or better endowed could be around... MIND & BODY ENERGY MEDICINE By Dr. Aziz Alnamani HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF ENERGY MEDICINE? Energy medicine, energy therapy, energy healing, or spiritual healing is a branch of complementary and alternative medicine. In theory, the healer can channel healing energy into the patient. Several methods can be used to transfer the healing energy such as hands-on, hands-off and distant (or absent), where the patient and healer are in different locations. There are various schools of energy healing; but most are non-denominational practitioners do not see religious faith as a prerequisite for effecting a cure. An interesting new energy system available around the world, including here in Oman, is called Body Talk. BodyTalk is said to be a simple, safe and effective system of integrative health care - a holistic approach to healing, based on proven principles of energy medicine. The body is a complex ecosystem with a delicate balance between physiological and biochemical functions, emotional and mental interactions, environmental influences, and hereditary and genetic restrictions. BodyTalk helps synchronise the body’s natural functions - to achieve and maintain healing and growth on all levels: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. Bodytalk practitioners believe there is a natural state of communication between the atoms, cells and all internal systems within the body. These lines can become crossed and compromised as a result of every day stress, which can ultimately decrease overall well being of the individual. Through various techniques, Bodytalk realigns these areas of communication, which stimulates and reactivates the body’s natural self-healing capability. If sceptical of natural therapies such as this, at least by giving most a go - there is no harm done. So why not try - and see what your body says? Dr Aziz Alnamani Medical Director Top Medical Care, Tel: 24511010 http://www.topmedicsoman.com May 2014 Affection and Intimacy 37 in the LUXE Tiered& Bedecked… Be it the traditional three-tiered cakes or the designer ones with precious and semi-precious stones adorning it, most wedding cakes are baked to reflect the symbolic union in creative artwork that make you want to have the cake (for ever, if possible) and eat it too It is Platinum Bedecked with platinum necklaces, pins, pendants and edible platinum flakes, this white cake takes exclusivity to another level. Japanese pastry chef Nobue Ikara, who created this cake, has dedicated it to a number of famous Japanese women like Rinko Kikuchi and Chie Kumazawa, in the hope that it will encourage more women to wear platinum jewellery. Interestingly, this cake hasn’t been sold. Price: $130,000 Laced with edible Gold This chocolate cake, braided with pabulum gold, is a perfect expression of rich food. It contains edible 23-karat gold and is served in a calix lined with edible gold; 28 cocoas, including 14 of the most expensive and exotic from around the world were also blended into the cake. And lo, the cake is eaten with a gold spoon decorated with white and chocolate-coloured diamonds. Price: $20,342 April 2014 It’s all about Diamonds 38 Weighing at 160 pounds, this is no typical wedding cake. It has nine tiers and is adorned with diamonds weighing 1,200 carats around the base of the tiers, alongside a few rubies. Created by Dallas Cakes, it is covered in silver ‘lustre’ dust icing. Price: $1.3 million Layers & Sapphires Titled Pirates Fantasy and created by Sri Lankan celebrity chef Dimuthu Kumarasinghe, the cake comes in ten layers, with each layer featuring a different stone belonging to the sapphire family. It also features ten pieces of jewellery, including a necklace, bracelet, ring, pendant, cuff links and tiepins. Exotic ingredients are also used to perfect the flavours. Price: $35 million Bridal Whites in the LUXE White wedding gowns may never go out of style; but what about diamond and gold encrusted exclusive bridal dresses that come under the worth-millions-ofdollars category…? Diamond all the way Believed to be the most expensive wedding gown in history, it features 150 carats worth of diamonds laced throughout the dress. Created by Martin Katz Jewelers and Renee Strauss, a bridal couture designer, the gown was made to celebrate the spectacular Bridal Show at The RitzCarlton in Marina del Rey. Price: $12 million White and Gold… Japanese designer Yumi Katsura’s most expensive bridal dress contains a rare 5-carat yellow diamond, a 8.8 carat emerald, 1,000 pearls as well as delicate zari (thread traditionally made of fine gold or silver) embroidery stitched into the silk, and embodied in satin. Price: $8.5 million Luxury Gown This Danasha luxury gown from fashion designer Jad Ghandour and Danasha was completely handmade. It was dramatically unveiled during the Miami International Fashion Week. Created from taffeta material, it features 75 Carats of high spec diamonds, hand-picked from Antwerp, Belgium and 250 grams of 18 k gold. Price: $1.5 million Featuring 2,009 pieces of peacock feathers, this wedding dress took eight handicraftsmen two months to finish. Created by designer Vera Wang, it is believed to be one of the most unique designs. Price: $1.5 million April 2014 Peacock Style 39 look GOOD The Healing Touch Pampered, relaxed or therapeutic… spa massages are all about unwinding in an ambience perfected to induce tranquillity T May 2 Ma May 20 2014 014 14 he ‘sea of tranquillity’ is not only on the moon; it flows unbridled at the Zayna Spa, located within the picturesque Millennium Resort Musannah (MRM) too. There is a quiet lure about this spacious spa that is reflective of the scenic attractions of the Resort. Nestled on the shores of Gulf of Oman, with the captivating swimming pool on one side, the spa is a perfect cocoon for those seeking relaxation away from the humdrum of everyday life. 40 40 It is the smell of woody freshness that greets us as we make our way to Zayna. The muted colours and the sober décor create a cheery mood within the well-conceived complex, and we are instinctively drawn in by the promise of pampered indulgence. The well-lit lobby leads to little havens of relaxation, with the themes highlighted in distinct décor. The setting is, indeed, perfect with the massage bed in the centre adding to the indulgent notes packed in every room. There is an all-pervading glow that emanates from little tea lights placed in every room. Presenting the different features of the neatly furnished Spa, Hamid Aly, Spa Manager, points out that the use Pevonia Botanica and Phytoceane lines of Spa products, which contain natural marine and botanical ingredients combined LIFESTYLE MANTRA WEDDING NO-NO’S By Sophia Raman Tried & Tested Personally, it was a relaxing deep tissue massage at the hands ands of an experienced Thai masseuse… The pleasant lingering g ache ob well around the shoulder blades was assurance enough of a job done. Hamad explains that the holistic and wellness treatment ensures that each client forgets their stresses and relaxes. “The principal objective is to guide guests towards their personalised healthy lifestyle goals,” he maintains. The hour-long session at the hands of a Thai masseuse acted as a perfect prelude to a leisurely lunch at the new Azure restaurant. We opted for the outdoors and the cool, windy weather pleasantly surprised us. Even with the temperature hovering around 40, the sea-facing restaurant seemed to be spared from the summer wrath. MRM is an experience…one that is best enjoyed over the weekend. Located about 45 minutes away from the Seeb International Airport, the Resort is a perfect weekend destination, made all the more idyllic with the opening of the new Zayna Spa. A relaxing massage session, at the hands of an experienced masseuse, is just what the doctor would have ordered after a busy week at the office One obvious no-no no is a black outfit. Of course, cour this rule does not apply appl to men, who, often, prefer to wear black tuxedos; tuxedo but women should refrain from picking black bla clothes, unless they are designed as cockt cocktail dresses, with sequins to add to the mo mood of the wedding ceremony. Skimp Skimpy clothes are another big ‘no’. While short dresses may seem accep acceptable, it is best to spare them for a night nigh out with friends than don one for a wed wedding. Clothes that show off your assets might seem as if you are stealing the sh show from the bride. This dictat also applie applies to men who dress up to upstage gro the groom. Tone it down… On the same note, wearing casual tees and je jeans is a big faux pas, even if the weddin has been planned as a casual or wedding laid-bac affair. Do not let the venue of the laid-back wedding m make you take the casual route; it will t fun out of the wedding. This rule just take all the fo the footwear, unless the wedding also applies for specific invite specifically requires the guests to come in flip-flops or te tees. Add to that list formal pantsuits, u which are the ultimate no-no’s for a wedding. The business attire can c make the event seem drab and boring; the fun element in a wedding ceremony could be easily h heightened by wearing a chic dress. Accessories like lik tiara are meant for the bride and not an nding anyone attending the ceremony. Wearing Wea ight one might make you look desperate…wait d wait until ‘your’ wedd ear wedding day to wear one one. May 2014 with technologically advanced formulas and treatments. The Spa features 11 spacious treatment rooms, including one couple’s suite. T h e manicure and pedicure lounge, and a relaxation lounge e spa’s for use before and between appointments, complete the e locker main facilities. Spa users also have access to large private ascular rooms and a fully equipped Fitness Centre with cardiovascular and strength training equipment. To add to the attractionss is the ladies only pool and Jacuzzi. ages – The services on offer include different kinds of massages Ayurveda, Thai, Hot Stone and Foot Reflexology; faciall treatg therments, manicure and pedicure, body treatment, slimming apy, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam rooms, hammam and waxing. The Spa features an experienced international team of therapistss with a wide array of therapies and treatments to complement the onsite dining options and leisure amenities at the resort. ager of The Zayna Spa, explains Maurice De Rooij, General Manager MRM, is a major step forward in the expanssanah, sion of Millennium Resort Mussanah, combining tried and tested traditest intional treatments and the latest uest an novations to give every guest nalised unforgettable and personalised experience. “We have brought nd the specialist staff from around ise and world to share their expertise treat guests to a variety of unique es that and rejuvenating techniques will leave them energised and reat MRM newed,” he points out, adding that tertainwill soon become an oasis of entertainastline. ment, escape and relaxation on the Al Batinah coastline. mentary The exclusive spa experience begins with a complimentary he Spa consultation to determine the client’s specific needs; the staff guide each guest through the extensive range of full day pampering sessions and short treatments. WE ALL KNOW WHAT TO WEAR FOR A WEDDING, BUT ARE THERE ANY DICTATS ABOUT WHAT ONE SHOULDN’T BE SEEN IN AT WEDDINGS? 41 style FILE Cool Summer Notes from Max Kids summer at Max has kicked off with a variety of trends for the summer and Ramadan season K detail, ey colours for the season d de eta taiill, wrap dresses and cute polka dot short-shorts. The play is on stripes and consists of ivory, warm browns, neon, orange greens and d do d o ott ssh h sea blue in playful grown-up silhouettes like maxi dresses, dots, with hints of cute yellow daisy flowers. shorts, polo shirts and cute summer dresses. Monochrome Animal Tribal: Animal with tribal slogan - prints and mirrored prints are key to this collection. This collection takes on a more geometrical form than traditional tribal prints setting it off with hints of neon and animal faces. Some key pieces are denim shorts, t-shirts and blouses with funky embellishments in washed tones. Tropical/Jungle/Surf The huge trend of tropical, jungle and surf themes influence the younger and teen kids collections, however these are interpreted in summery hues of orange, greens, blues and neon accents. A huge surf inspiration influences most of the boy’s collections - from traveller, road trip to sun, sea and sand surf themes. Slogan prints and mirrored ones are key, with sublimation prints, especially on t-shirts and blouses. Summer checks are renewed in bright neon tones and funky accents. The prominent monochrome trend influences the kids’ collection this summer. This classic trend is updated with varsity slogans and fabric blocking in the boys collections with hints of red accents. Key pieces are basketball vests, t-shirts and shorts in lightweight fabrics keeping you cool this summer. Coachella Ma M May ay 2 20 2014 01 14 4 Teen girls who are hugely influenced by festivals such as Coachella and road tripping can find fringed tops and denim shorts in ombre pastel pinks and lilacs. Accents like dream catcher prints and webbing back details on tops are key. It’s all about being relaxed, taking it easy and enjoying having fun. Photographic and Aztec prints with dip dyed efYou’re so Daisy Daisy Florals in black, white and yellow, is a fun take on the ever- fects in cute playsuit silhouettes underpin this prominent monochrome trend. This collection features fun summer collection. silhouettes, such as asymmetrical tops, stripe leggings with daisy Ideal for the free spirited teen… 42 style FILE Clarks’ Spring-Summer Collection GET INTO THE MOODS OF THE SEASON WITH CLARKS Women’s... Men’s... From hybrid sports styles to utility boots, modern man is spoilt for choice. Canvas and suede mixes, meshes and weaves are brought to life with inspired interpretations of the classic camo print. Lines are smart, clean and classic; leathers are smooth; detailing discreet. The perfect complement to a modern take on traditional tailoring. May 20 Ma May 2014 014 1 The heat is on. Shimmer and glimmer fuse with scorched earth tones and sun-washed hues. A hint of sports luxe; effortless chic; the must-have accessory to the season’s looks and lines. Authentic and handcrafted influcence are mixed with updated ‘70s bohemia. 43 43 Just TRAVEL World’s Best Honeymoon Destinations ‘A honeymoon is the traditional holiday taken by newlyweds to celebrate their marriage in intimacy and seclusion’ - Wikipedia Honeymoon… Say it aloud and feel the onomatopoeic effect of the word fill you with the harmony aligned in every consonant and vowel. The word can easily conjure images of contented togetherness, made special by the exotic destination where it is captured…by the sea, mountain or simply a luxurious abode. All honeymooners want their share of romantic break in one of the idyllic destinations around the world. Here’s a look at some of the romantic locations for a memorable honeymoon: St. Lucia If you are going to the Caribbean, spend time around St. Lucia, which has been hailed as one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world, thanks to the many remote islets that you could visit. With a little extra moolah, you could even stay on an island of your own and rejuvenate in the therapeutic hot springs or indulge in water sports; the adventurous could even climb atop a volcano… Mexico Mexico will open a whole new world to you and the love of your life. The serene beaches are inviting and the bullfighting is exciting; however, it is the trek through the mysterious Aztec temples that will keep inspiring you. Foodies can gorge on spicy Mexican food. Hawaii With travel experts ranking it as one of the best honeymoon spots in the world, you have a range of choices at your behest with volcanoes, beaches and islands. If you like the idea of island hopping to Maui, Kauai, Hawaii, Molokai, and Lanai, you could look forward to exploring all the diverse environments. May 2014 Mexico 44 Hawaii Bali Up the romance quotient with a visit to what is described as Asia’s best destinations for couples. Bali, the ‘last paradise’, is not only about pristine white sandy beaches, it also has on offer volcanic mountains, lush green forests and unexplored getaways. Besides, it is home to some of the luxurious resorts and hotels. Fiji Life is a beach at Fiji, which is immensely endowed by nature to cater to couples of every kind. With over 322 islands, you are bound to find your utopia or the Garden of Eden, filled with a unique feel of serenity and romance. If you are seeking some adventure, try out the water sports or explore the hot springs that have been prepared by volcanic craters. Thailand Whether you are a foodie or a diehard romantic at heart, Italy has the best to add to the honeymoon spirit. You could exchange sweet nothings as you go visiting Venice or the Leaning Tower of Pisa or simply tuck into a warm Sicilian pizza at a quaint eatery and feel the joys of living a laidback life. Italy Wildlife captivates your interest? Then, South Africa it has to be. You and your new spouse could watch leopards, rhinoceros, buffaloes, lions, and elephants in their actual habitat and experience a beautiful togetherness. There are also attractive beaches and relaxing coastlines to add to the fun element. Kenya Paris Paris continues to retain its ‘romantic city’ tag and a visit to the place will make you nod in agreement, as you bask in the permeating dreamy ambience everywhere. Whether you are having a romantic candle light dinner atop the Eiffel Tower, getting serenaded by singers in the streets, or savouring the warm home made French breads, you are bound to have an inspiring honeymoon. Bermuda South Africa Some places make you wish you could stop time forever…one such is Bermuda. Its pink sand beaches and sapphire blue waters captivate you with their magic. The isles and islets are inviting and exploring one is easy as they are linked with bridges. If you are an avid golfer, this could be the best honeymoon, as Bermuda owns more courses per square mile than any other place in the world! Kenya Here’s a paradise for you… Witness the abundance of nature in the pristine forests and the fascinating sight of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Unleash your adventurous streak and enjoy a wild honeymoon Jamaica Just TRAVEL Italy South Africa Thailand Get pampered at some of the worldclass spas and wellness centres in Thailand and return completely rejuvenated. Book one of the beach bungalows and enjoy total privacy as you relax to the hush of splashing waves. Jamaica Savour nature in its pristine glory in Jamaica as you enjoy the beats of the rhythmic drums and watch fire dancers. The resorts are designed to pamper your every whim and make your stay memorable. Bali May 2 Ma May 20 2014 01 14 4 Paris St. Lucia 45 45 Just TRAVEL M y2 Ma May 20 2014 014 14 46 46 Nagarhole National Park Nagarhole…a paradise in the deep jungles of India is a must visit destination Text & Photographs by Rishav Raman N agarhole National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in the southern state of Karnataka in India; it is located along the River Kabini, which is about two-hours drive from Mysore, the former capital of Karnataka. If you are an outdoors person and love the wildlife, a visit to the Park will prove to be a memorable trip. The best option would be to travel to Mysore by plane or train, depending on the availability of services from where you are travelling. Ideally, book a resort in Kabini to enjoy this paradise from close quarters. The resorts are great, but you would need to book in advance to avoid disappointment. The Nagarhole National Park is one of the most well protected sanctuaries in the world. In close vicinity to this park is the Bandipur National Park, which is located on the other side of Kabini River. It is famous for its elephants. Nagarhole, on the other hand, is a tiger reserve; it has a significant population of tigers, How To Get To Nagarhole By Air: The nearest airports are in Bangalore and Mysore. By Rail: The nearest station is in the city of Mysore. By Road: The park is well connected by roads and distances with various cities can be calculated as follows: Madikeri (93 km), Mysore (96 km) and Bangalore (236 km) Best Time To Visit: The park is open all year round but the best time to visit would be between September and May. The Park’s gates are closed by 6:00 pm. Just TRAVEL TRAVEL GUIDE Ma M May ay 2 20 2014 01 14 4 elephants, leopards, wild bison and wild dogs. You have the choice of going on a vehicle safari and/or a boat safari, to get a close look at all the wildlife within the sanctuary. If you are interested in photography, you will have many opportunities to capture fascinating pictures of animals in their habitat. I visited the National Park in April this year and was lucky to spot several wildlife animals during the vehicle safari that we undertook. We spotted a leopard, several elephants and four types of deer, monkeys, bison and wild boars. We saw different animals and even birds, but, sadly, missed seeing any tigers. All of us in the safari van, including me, were keen on seeing a tiger, but bad luck... But again, this is what makes wildlife sanctuaries so different from zoos; the thrill of spotting wildlife animals in their natural habitat is what makes your trip a memorable one 47 47 at HOME The Grass Is Greener Summer in this part of the world may not be conducive to get into the outdoor mood, but Kristine Bonnici shows how you can use your exterior spaces as an extension of your interiors R May 2014 elaxing, whether alone or with family and friends, is an essential antidote to daily stress. From a quiet corner where we can curl up with a book to a place where we can entertain friends, we need to establish our place in the sun. A key element in all my design projects is natural light and I always try to maximise the light coming into the house. Whenever I’m designing an exterior space, I blur the distinction between inside and out, seeing the exterior as an extension of the interior. I often do this by using similar colours, textures and materials, adding focal points and making sure that the design concept is followed throughout the project. 48 Not all of us are fortunate enough to have large gardens or terraces. However, it is still possible to create a patch of greenery by putting window boxes with colourful flowers on each sill. Hanging baskets placed in small balconies provide scent and colour without impinging on valuable floor space. Small garden tables and chairs on a balcony will provide a place to read or enjoy breakfast. Even if you don’t have a balcony, find a sunny spot inside the house and create a special place where you can relax surrounded by houseplants. Gardens and terraces need to be flexible, personal, and above all comfortable. Make a list of priorities before designing your exterior space. Take all relevant factors into consideration. Think about how much time you have at HOME energy lighting, exterior floodlights, spotlights, floor lamps and candles. The easiest way to vary the lighting in a garden is by installing lights on different circuits to provide as much versatility as possible. Don’t limit yourself to just using the light in the garden. The light shining out through the interior windows onto the garden is an excellent source of ambient light and creates an interesting backdrop to the garden. A glazed link between the interior and the exterior will provide the best of both worlds allowing you to enjoy the outside from the inside of your home and using the interior to illuminate the exterior of your home. Accent light in the form of spotlights will create pools of light to accentuate the features in the garden. Backlighting plants and trees can create beautiful, ethereal effects. Task lighting is also necessary to provide light for dining or cooking al fresco. Orientation lighting to illuminate paths and stairways is necessary to create a safe environment. Decorative lighting can take the form of fairy lights placed around a tree. Flares and candles provide interesting kinetic light – naked flames perfectly complement nature adding an extraspecial ingredient to parties. Choose your garden furniture with care. Consider maintenance costs and storage options. Exterior furniture is now looking more and more like interior furniture, with sofas and chairs available in beautifully upholstered fabric. There is now a much wider choice, ranging from low-slung contemporary pieces to reproduction furniture in materials suitable for the outdoors. Consider building your furniture from materials used elsewhere in the house such as concrete or masonry to blur the distinction between your interior and your exterior space. Enjoy the elemental quality that nature provides and use it to relax and regenerate your spirits Kristine Bonnici Senior Interior Designer at StudioBasel [email protected] www.studiobasel.com www.kristinebonnici.com Middle East: +968 9690 0939, Europe: +356 7700 0077 May 2014 to maintain the plants in your garden. Plan a shaded area where you can enjoy the peace of the garden away from the hot summer sun. Creating a successful exterior design project is similar to working on the interior of the home. Although the garden lacks rooms for defined tasks, the design scheme requires similar basic principles – unity of style, unity of scale and the creation of a focal point. A garden without a focal point is a strangely disconcerting one. There may be warmth, beautiful greenery and a comfortable place to sit, but without a feature to which all eyes instinctively turn, it will never be a space in which people feel totally at ease. Creating a focal point is necessary in any design scheme – whether interior or exterior. The focal point may take any form – a water feature, decorative seating, a large tree, an ornate statue or a modern garden sculpture. Another important consideration when planning your garden is the scale and proportion of the elements used. It is essential to choose plants and trees that suit both the conditions and the size of the site. Large-sized plants grow tall and broad and will overcrowd and intimidate a small space. Seek professional advice and research your choices well. Getting the basics right is fundamental to landscaping. Getting the levels right, choosing the right floor finish, the type of plaster on the walls, the correct balance between sunny areas and shaded spaces, all these elements require careful thought, and each decision will invariably affect other choices you will have to make. One aspect that is often overlooked is exterior lighting. There are a number of key elements for lighting a garden successfully. Garden lights include special architectural fittings, low 49 Wedding SPECIAL The Wedding Connection All things bright and beautiful to make your wedding day special Sifawy Beckons…………………………...........51 Get married in style at Sifawy Boutique Hotel Wedding Flavours From Mouawad.................52 Trendy designer jewellery from the house of Mouawad Wedding Gowns…………………………..........54 Check out what’s making the trend circuit in the wedding gowns market Well Suited……………………………...............58 May 2014 Wedding suit trends to watch out for the groom-in-waiting 50 Wedding SPECIAL A Wedding to Remember at Sifawy Combine romance and an out-of-the-box experience to create everlasting memory on your wedding day wedding at Sifawy Boutique Hotel now: 1. Natural wonders and stunning backdrops: Whether you enjoy the amazing mountain views or the serene beaches, our destination has it all. 2. Cosy and intimate: This setting will surely make you enjoy quality time with friends and family and most importantly with your soonto-be life-partner. 3. Suits every taste: By introducing the wow factor in each and every element of your experience, we offer you a number of options when it comes to wedding setups, themes and decorations. You can have your wedding outdoor or indoor, at the beach or at the Al Majlis with fantastic views of the marina. We can also organise it at the Courtyard with a stunning pool deck, the seashore or the restaurant terrace, in addition to having it on a boat or a luxury yacht for a more intimate gathering with your guests. 4. A stay for all: Luxury suites, Omani-themed rooms as well as apartments for bigger families are all available to accommodate your guests. 5. Guest entertainment: You do not have to worry about keeping your guests entertained during their stay before and after the big day; we can host daytime and sunset cruises and offer a variety of water sports. 6. Tradition vs. modern culinary: We offer you a foodie’s paradise ranging from traditional Omani food to contemporary cuisine that is guaranteed to be enjoyed by everyone. 7. Dedicated experts: Our team of specialists hold the key to creating a one-of-a-kind wedding for you. We support you from beginning to end with the utmost dedication and attentiveness, as we ensure that all preparations are flawlessly executed. May Ma M ay 2 20 2014 01 14 4 I f you are thinking about getting married some place real yet magical, traditional yet contemporary, somewhere where your dream wedding will be turned into a perfect day of celebration, then Sifawy Boutique Hotel is a perfect destination. Whether it is a lavish 5-star wedding with 150 guests or an intimate ceremony, a variety of wedding packages are on offer to sweep you away, says a spokesperson at the Hotel. Sifawy Boutique Hotel puts the sentimental value of Oman to the forefront, offering that added spark to the magical mix of a complete wedding destination. “While planning your special day, we understand that it is all about reflecting your personal touches, along with your style,” adds the spokesperson, presenting 7 reasons to plan and book your 51 5 1 Wedding SPECIAL May 2014 52 Mouawad Wedding Collection Presenting unsurpassed elegance to be treasured forever after Every woman dreams of unsurpassed elegance on her wedding day and the Mouawad Wedding collection brings this dream to life with stunning splendour. Mouawad craftsmen have excelled themselves, bringing forth a selection of sets, each one designed to find particular resonance with its wearer. Just as wedding traditions are laden with symbolic beauty, the Mouawad Wedding Collection offers a deeper meaning behind their shimmering reflections. Wedding SPECIAL The harmony of a wedded union is embodied brilliantly in each set of perfectly matching necklace, bracelet, earrings and ring; while the combination of white diamonds and white gold recalls thoughts of innocence and purity. Classic motifs of flowers, petals, hearts and teardrops are united in designs that range from delicate simplicity to magnificent grandeur, giving every bride the luxury of choosing the perfect complement to her beauty. May 2014 Born to be worn on the most special day in a woman’s life, the Mouawad Wedding Collection is crafted to be treasured forever after. Just as every true love story is eternal, this is jewellery with an everlasting promise to enchant all those within its gaze. 53 m ark et, fro at th ow g et m ing ld top rends i d d e w n the or des w e igners h around t n Wedding SPECIAL Shades White ek pe ick A qu Beautiful Of W hile white continues to weave its endearing and enduring ties of beauty and elegance on the romantic wedding gown, other distinct hues, related and unrelated to the traditional colour, are slowly making their presence felt this year. Like ivory and black lacy embellishments, which are set to add a new flavour to the special day… Other exciting trends to look forward to, include: Lacy Sleeves All sorts of delicate lace sleeves are on for this wedding season. Almost all top designers are working with Chantilly, Venise, Guipure and Schiffli lace to create dainty sleeves. Back Details With designers becoming experimental with the backs, more details are emerging on the gowns openkeyholes, architectural pleating trains. Some, who have been open-back trend from Fall 2013, of drama for Spring 2014 in This trend has been defined and undeniably elegant. back and contemporary inspired by the have added a touch the shape of an ‘X’. as graphic, bold Attractive Embellishments Wedding is all about glitter and sparkle…on the gown too. There is now a revival of gowns decorated with either head-to-toe beading or lace, and even the all so popular three-dimensional flowers. Sequins, organza silk flowers, lace appliqués…have made it to the ramp this year. May 2 Ma May 20 2014 01 14 4 Layered Luxury It’s all about layers, layers and more layers with sheer tulle wraps and luxurious fur capelets (a short cape usually covering just the shoulders). Layers create a dramatic effect and are known to add special regality to the big day. With clever layering, the gowns could be more conservative. Get Short Wedding Dresses that sit just above the knee or frame the knee are on the bridal fashion spotlight. As fashionistas observe, 54 54 Minimalism The ‘less is more’ dictum, followed by some designers, has opened up the platform for sleek and modern wedding dresses, like slip dresses and simple sheaths. These have hardly any bead or embellishment and have a fresh, clean and graceful look. According to fashion gurus, these wedding gowns can be used as a minimalist statement dress or as the base layer for a load of bold accessories. Hard-edged details could be offset with add-ons like tiny bow belts and slight floral additions to add a touch of romance. Wedding SPECIAL the '50s-style ankle-length wedding dresses offer a playful alternative. Laces, draped tulle and striking necklines add to make the short factor all the more exciting. The runways have seen a host of short wedding dresses in a range of fabrics, from re-embroidered lace to silk organza. Colour Trends May 20 Ma May 2 2014 14 14 Hear…hear…wearing a stark white gown is no longer a must. Designers in Europe have introduced the barely there colours, in blush or blue or neutrals. The trend counter has also opened up to gowns in subtle colours like sugary pink, powder blue, mint green or even gold. Traditional brides could opt for hems tinged with subtle shades that fade into the main white or introduce colour in small details, like delicate embroidery on the veil or dress or a belt. Ombre is believed to be this season’s dip-dyed trend for brides who cannot go completely pink or in such similar shade. An element of black and white is seen to create a dramatic splash and even make it look more formal. As one designer suggests, adding a thin black sash or pairing the gown with modern onyx accessories can create the same effect. Uncannily, blue has made its entry into the wedding ensemble. Designers h ave i m bu e d everything from a bluetinged silver to a deep navy and everything in between. They believe that the wedding colour palette of 2015 will be full of shades of blue. 55 5 m ee ts the eye i Wedding SPECIAL e er Th s, s a es p p int a r e qu ntly, m ore to the Suit Trends For The Groom en tia an l tu h t , xed o for the groom I n all the hectic planning and preparing for the wedding day, the groom’s clothes, often, take a back seat. Even wedding planers, seemingly, forget that it’s just as much the groom’s day as it is the bride’s. Although tuxedos rule the formal wear for the groom, there is a gradual redefining of the classic wedding attire and incorporation of modernity, say fashion experts; one that all grooms-tobe need to consider Here are the trend alerts to watch out for this year: Suit Flavour 2014, says a fashion expert, is about continuing to push the boundaries of ‘Wedding Suit’, which are designed with weddings in mind. The contemporary slim silhouette and traditional woollen fabrics will witness a twist, with most grooms taking the ‘different’ route to mark their stamp on their special day. Three-piece Suits These tried and tested suits have been popular since the beginning of this decade and it will continue to hold the roost. A matching waistcoat is expected to hit the trend factor for the year. U-Shaped Waistcoats With waistcoats expected to make their presence felt, the vote is on the low-buttoned U-shaped ones, which have been popular over the last two years. Slim Style Slim is the style quotient, whether it is the suit, trousers, shirt or tie. This trend is expected to add that element of panache in the groom’s attire. Suspenders Suspenders… They might look old-fashioned, but are still considered to be a perfect way to add a funky and modern, yet subtle, twist to any groom’s outfit. Bow Ties Bow ties are trendy and stylish, the perfect way to make a splash on your wedding day. Em Embrace your funky side! May 2014 Colour code 56 Like the white gown that is going pink and even blue, grey is believed to be the new black for grooms. Other colours to opt for are tan or beige suits. The idea is to maintain the colour coordination that is in tune with the colours in groomsmen’s clothes. Blue suits are also expected to prove their popularity. 5. Accessories! Pocket watches, cufflinks, tie-bars, tie-pins, collar bars, collar clips, pocket squares, boutonnières, arm bands and braces. 2013 has been the year of the accessories and this will continue throughout 2014. ‘London Calling’ The second season of Marks & Spencer’s web-based mini-series ‘London Calling’ presents actresses outfitted in M&S fashion Advertorial Marks & Spencer’s to reach out to the local Arab customer through the digital space to build awareness and engagement in an original and inspiring style. It was in December last year that M&S (Marks & Spencer) ventured outside the confines of traditional customer engagement channels by introducing ‘London Calling’. This debut drama series centres upon Hala, a trendy young woman living in London who aspires to be a fashion designer. She connects weekly over online video chat with her sister Shereen in Dubai and her mother Mona in Lebanon. With the action unfolding on the screen in a format similar to online video chat, viewers are immersed in the family's discussions. The concept echoes the very lives of the people it is meant to entertain. In the Middle East, as well as across the world, previous traditional household interactions are now done over electronic devices and video chat. Apart from the beautiful clothes fitting each character’s style, and M&S innovations touching upon in the stories (such as machine washable suits, drop a size dress, etc.), these three women manage to hold on to their closeness as an Arab family. It’s an entertaining journey of emotions, perspectives, and experiences, as they try to stick to their choices and understand the struggles of life. Despite being considerably softer in its approach, the series engrosses its audience in the lives of these three Arab women; an ambitious daughter, the traditional sister, and the caring mother all living apart yet sharing the bond of love and compassion. M&S aims to connect to its audience in a smart, sweet and super intuitive way: 2 minutes of great content ending with a smile and the desire to watch the next episode! The series has a total of eight short web episodes, each episode lasting for maximum 3 minutes. The dialogues are crisp, simple and quirky. May 2014 London Calling, the regional first ‘dramedy’ mini-series, is aimed 57 Advertorial Ma M May ay 20 2 2014 14 1 4 58 58 Malabar Gold & Diamonds opens its 115th outlet in Oman M alabar Gold & Diamonds, the leading jewellery retailer opened its 115th showroom in Ruwi High Street, in April. The showroom was jointly inaugurated by Bollywood actress, Karisma Kapoor and Ambasador Moosa Hamdan Al Taei – Chief of International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sultanate of Oman, in the presence of M.P. Ahammed – Chairman, Malabar Group, Shamlal Ahamed M.P, Managing Director – International Operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Najeeb. K - Regional Head, Khamis Thani Al-Mandhri, Director – Sultanate of Oman, Muhsin P - Branch Head, other Directors, personalities from media and well wishers of Malabar Gold & Diamonds. Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ 6th showroom in Oman features intricately designed international collection of classic, contemporary and quality jewellery crafted in gold, diamond and platinum. Malabar Gold & Diamonds is the flagship company of Malabar Group, a leading diversified Indian business conglomerate. Established in 1993 in South Indian state of Kerala, Malabar Gold & Diamonds today has a strong retail network of 115 outlets spread across 8 countries, 10 wholesale units in addition to offices, design centres and factories spread in India, GCC and Singapore. With an annual turnover of $3.5 billion, the company currently ranks as the world’s third largest jewellery retailer in terms of annual turnover. With 7 cluster manufacturing units in India and GCC – the company currently has 6 jewellery brands to cater to the discerning needs of customers. With headquarters in Kerala, India and branches across India, GCC & Singapore, Malabar Group is best known for its activities in the field of gold, diamond and precious metals. The company, which has a strong corporate social responsibility scheme embedded in its system, is committed to make a difference in human lives by spending over Rs300 million in charitable activities in the year 2015, part of the Rs850 million earmarked for charitable activities between 2012 - 2015. WINNERS of Selfie time with MAMA! Congratulations to the winners of FACES y Contest… Mother’s Day First prize: Rashmi Dsouza Second prize: Shyla Ivan Third prize: Sandhya Vora G Gifts Galore: First prize: RO60 shopping voucher from Muscat Grand Mall and a breakfast F v voucher for two from Park Inn. Second prize: RO40 shopping voucher from Muscat Grand Mall and a S Third prize: RO20 shopping voucher from Muscat Grand Mall and a breakfast voucher for two from Park Inn. Selfie: A picture taken of yourself that is planned to be uploaded to Facebook or any other social networking website. May Ma ay 20 2 2014 14 b breakfast voucher for two from Park Inn. 59 9 Disclaimer: Only those selfies that met the terms and conditions of the contest qualified to make it to the winning tally. Tips & Toes opens in Sohar Nawras Expands Third 3G+ Data Carrier N a w r a s launched its 3rd 3G+ carrier services on the 900MHz band across several cities countrywide. As part of their Turbocharging programme, Nawras has modernised base stations in the cities of Buraimi, Dhank, Yanqul, Ibri, Rustaq and Nakhal, to provide customers with an even faster mobile broadband service. Customers now have significantly improved indoor coverage, faster data download speeds, and an overall enhanced online experience, whether at home, in the office, at college, or out shopping. Sultan Al-Wahaibi, Nawras Network Implementation and Infrastructure Director, said: “Browsing the Internet, video streaming, downloads and online gaming are all much faster and easier than ever.” T ips & Toes, one of the high standard nail spa and beauty lounge in Muscat, is now offering its services in Sohar with a branch opening in Safeer Mall. Tips & Toes provide top quality services that cater to the customer’s needs for maintaining beauty with uncompromising practices. Tips & Toes provide sophisticated beauty treatments in their Muscat branches, located in Bareeq Al Shatti Mall, Muscat Grand Mall and Muscat City Centre. It provides a wide array of services to cater to all the beauty needs of today’s divas that includes nails (manicure, pedicure, nail extensions and more), facials, body massage, eyelash extensions, waxing treatments and hair treatments. MGM: A Hub for Events M uscat Grand Mall, which celebrated its second anniversary, has firmly established itself as a popular venue for events across a variety of sectors – giving its customers a diverse experience. Recently it hosted former CNN Financial Editor, Todd Benjamin, organised GCC Traffic Safety Week exhibition and Mother’s Day. It is the fastest growing lifestyle hub in the Sultanate offering choice and convenience for shoppers and residents, as part of a combined leisure experience. Hassan Jaboub, General Manager of Muscat Grand Mall commented: “We are very proud to have associated with the Royal Oman Police to organise the inauguration of the GCC Traffic Safety Week…” Boasting more than 130 stores, a three-screen cinema, high-end residences and office space, in addition to hosting the largest food court in Oman, MGM is also home to leading global brands such as Carrefour, Happy Land, City Cinema, Sharaf DG, R&B, HomesRUs, PAUL and Chili’s, US Polo, Garage and Patchi among others. Muriya promotes Oman’s tourism industry at ATM May 2014 M 60 uriya took part in this year’s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), held in Dubai earlier this month, to showcase the latest developments at its Jebel Sifah and Salalah Beach destinations, the two largest Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) in Oman. Exhibiting under the vision of ‘Life As It Should Be’, Muriya’s interactive displays guided visitors through each destination and introduced the newly opened Salalah Rotana Resort, the largest hotel in Salalah by room size. Muriya will also deliver 10 luxury hotels in line with the Ministry of Tourism’s aim to increase the GDP contribution of tourism to 10% by 2020, as the Sultanate of Oman develops into a multi-faceted, yearround tourism destination. Omantel’s Win a trip to the K World Cup 2014 eeping up with the world sport events and in order to meet the wishes of the rse rsenal se en nal na all Soccer a So S occc cce cer School ce Sccho ch h o ho oll Oman Om O ma m an h hosted ostted Ars os A Arsenal sena ena nal lL Legend ege g nd ndfans, Fre Fr Freddie eddi ddie dd e football Omantel has recently announced the ‘Win a trip to the World Ljungberg, School Oman Lju ung ng gb berg errg rg, who rg, who ho visited viiissite vis v itte it ed the th he e Arsenal Arsena Ars al Soccer Socc Socc occer e Cup er Sch S chool hool ol in in Om an n promotional Campaign’, which offers Hayyak, Mada and 2014 Brazil give parents and opportunity to g giv ive p iv are ar a rre en ntts nts ts a an nd cchildren hil h iildr dre dre ren a an n o ppo po p ortu rtttu un niiitloyalty nit ty tto o iinteract nt nter nte te erac rac act Makasib programme users a chance to attend the FIFA World Cup 2014 British with him m thr tthrough th hrou hr oug oug ugh a ‘meet ‘m meet eet ee et and and greet’ an grre ee e e et’ t’ session t’ ses ses se essio sio sion n at at the the hein Brri B Bri rBrazil tis i h School ish is Sand choo cho hool ho oenjoy l matches watching a match live at the stadium. Each RO 1 being Muscat. Mus usscat ca . Freddie ca Fred reddie re e was wa as also allso lssso o on on the the pitch th piitc itttcch ch participating part artspent icipat ici pa p ating in ng iOmantel n the th he sessions se esss ess ssion iservices io ons on in will give the user a chance to win a trip to Brazil to alongside Arsenal Soccer School. Ljungberg a alo alongs lo ong n ide de d e senior ccoaches oac o oa aches ac he h es at es at A Ar rse sena all S Soc occattend cer Sc ce cer S Sch cahoo hWorld oo ool o l. l. Lju Lj u ngb ngberg ngb b2014 erg match. Customers can double their chances by spending erg Cup played Arsenal expensive p pl pla layed yed for yed f r Arse fo ena nal n al from al ffrrro om o m 1998 199 1 19 99 9 98 to to 2007; 200 007; he he was w as the the th m mo ostmore expens exp x ens sive ive e more to most get chances to win. Makasib loyalty programme users can also enter Swedish player was Arsenal GBP 3,000,000. S Sw Swe w dissh p wedis lay ay ye err w wh who ho w ho wa as sold d to to Ar A rsse sen e al al fo ffor othe r GB G Bweekly P 3,00 3 , 0,0 ,00 , 00. 00 0.. by redeeming 1000 points or more that are being collected from draws the usage of Omantel services. A OMR 3 Million ‘Centre of Excellence’ Al Madina Group and the Association of Early Intervention for Children with Disabilities have joined hands for the development of a new ‘Centre of Excellence’, which will provide comprehensive and sophisticated services to children with disabilities in the Sultanate. To be constructed in the Ghala area, close to the new Muscat International Airport – on land that has been donated by His Majesty Sultan Bin Said, the Centre will be a landmark in sustainability and community causes. The facility will act as the headquarters of the Association of Early Intervention for Children with Disabilities as well as serve as a common ground for children with disabilities to be effectively integrated into society. The total cost of the project is estimated at over RO 3 Million. F Park Inn by Radisson Muscat hosts Vijay Amritraj ormer Tennis player Vijay Amritraj and his son were hosted at the Park Inn by Radisson Muscat on their recent visit to the Sultanate of Oman. The hotel was the base for the legendary Indian athlete during his short stay. Amritraj was the captain of the Indian Davis Cup for much of the late 1970s and 1980s, helping India reach the finals in 1974 and 1987. It was here that he revelled as a champion and chalked memorable wins against higher ranked players. South African Freedom Day O May 2014 n the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the National Day of the Republic of South Africa, H.E. Maj Gen Chris Pepani, the Ambassador of South African embassy in Oman, held a reception at the Grand Hyatt Muscat. The well attended event featured a host of programmes. 61 Audi A3 is 2014 World Car of the Year A udi A3, the premium compact bes bestseller from the brand, is the 2014 World Car of the Year. This 201 second overall title for Audi in is the sec ten-year history of the World Car of the ten-ye Awards as the Audi A6 won the th Year A the inaugural inaug ina ugural overall title in 2005. Audi A3 overcame the challenge ove other cars to win from 23 o fro World the prestigious p es pr Ca of th Car the Year title in 2014. The A3 was voted as the Amazing offer on ZNA’s ‘Rich’ pick-up ZNA’s new 2014 ‘Rich’ pick-up is now available with free insurance and registration at a starting price of RO 4599. Brought to Oman by Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the twodoor pick-up is available in 4x2 version; the ZNA Rich Single Cabin has a 2.4 L, 4-cylinder engine with 5– speed MT. The vehicle comes with power steering and windows, an adjustable steering column, power mirrors and CD + USB + SD card. The ZNA Rich Double Cabin 4x2 and 4x4 have a 2.4 L, 4-cylinder engine with 5 – speed MT. Their comfort features include 2+3 seating, power steering and windows, power mirrors, power steering and windows, and CD + USB + SD card. May 2014 G 62 winner by an international jury panel comprising 69 top-level automotive journalists from 22 countries around the world. Audi has previously won three World Performance Car titles, two World Car Design of the Year titles and the inaugural World Car of the Year title. Geely Auto sets new standards G eely Automobile Holdings Limited (Geely Auto) announced its new brand strategy at the 13th Beijing International Automobile Exhibition (Auto China) recently. The company also unveiled the Emgrand Cross Concept PHEV (“Emgrand Cross”), a concept car designed to showcase its extensive research and expertise in new energy vehicles (“NEV”) and new design language. The new concept car is a testament to the progress Geely Auto has made in new energy vehicles. Focusing on both hybrid fuel-electric and plug-in hybrid technologies, Geely Auto has made new energy vehicles a central pillar of its long-term growth strategy. Its hybrid technology will adopt a GL-ESD power split system characterised by its combination of efficiency, structural sophistication and low cost. 6-Year Warranty and Cash Gift Promotion from Mitsubishi eneral Automotive Company, the official distributors of Mitsubishi Vehicles in Oman, is giving customers an exclusive opportunity to choose from an enviable range of Mitsubishi vehicles and receive a great range of benefits from the triple-diamond brand. The new limited time promotion, which ends June 15, includes a new 6-year unlimited mileage warranty, free cash gifts, free insurance, free service packages and more. As part of the promotion all non-commercial Mitsubishi vehicles sold during the promotional period will include free registration, 6-year unlimited mileage warranty and free 6-year roadside assistance. Valid until June 15, the GAC promotion applies to nearly every model in the Mitsubishi lineup including the Lancer EX, Lancer Fortis, ASX, Outlander, Pajero, and the newly launched Mirage and Attrage. OTE Group Opens Hyundai Flagship Showroom H yundai presence in the capital has become all the more impressive with the opening of the new flagship showroom at Wattayah. The showroom, inaugurated recently by Dr. Ali Masoud Al Sunaidi, Minister for Commerce and Industry, is designed to provide great experience of a Hyundai, even before the customer sets foot in one of the cars. Spread over 3 floors and 2,600sqmt, the showroom, with progressive state-of-the-art interiors, lighting etc., is expected to provide great buying experience to customers. Customers visiting the showroom can drive up the ramp to reach the doorstep of the First floor, which showcases the Hyundai range of sedans & SUVs. The All New Mini i i A fresh and exciting range of modelspecific products joins the Original MINI Accessories programme, and is available across the Middle East now. The all-new MINI is more powerful, more refined and more comfortable, and also offers more choice than ever for customers seeking to give their car a unique style. It means buyers can fine-tune the design and functionality of their MINI to suit their individual taste. For a little bit more road presence, buyers could add stylish roof decals to the all-new MINI Hatch; for extra space MINI has optional rear carriers, boot trays and the MINI coolbag. Making an on-road statement has never been easier with the complete range of exciting exterior styling accessories available for the all-new MINI. Al Jenaibi’s tips for the hot summer months Servicing: Check if the vehicle has correct level of engine coolant; oil is at the correct levels; the air conditioning is working efficiently; fuel tank is full; tyres have sufficient and correct air pressure; and tyres have tread depth of at least 3mm - the recommended depth Pressure and tread of the tyres: For the ‘correct’ tyre pressure, BMW suggests going by what is listed on the side of the driver’s door, on the glove compartment door, or in the owner’s manual. Oil change: Oil is the lifeblood of the car; it is particularly important in the summer, since a hot engine needs all the lubrication it can get. Air conditioning system: During the hot summer months, the AC requires more power than usual which puts pressure on the battery and generator resulting in the possibility of a break down. Brake easy: Brakes need to be checked if the brake pedal is very hard and resistant; brake pedal rests too low or too high; indication or warning lights flash on the dashboard; and there is loud scraping and grinding sounds coming from the brakes. In case of an emergency: z z Turn your hazard lights on and park on the far right lane of the road out of the way from other drivers. Keep your boot open and use your red-emergency triangle to warn other motorists that you are stationary. May 2014 W ith temperatures starting to soar, Al Jenaibi International Automobiles, BMW Group importer in Oman, is warning drivers of the harsh effects the hot summer months can have on their vehicles. To help ensure that damage to the vehicle is prevented and drivers and passengers are not stranded on the side of the road BMW recommends the following: 63 Chill Out Movies Mo Movie Review Cast Director Jonah Hill Channing Tatum Ice Cube Amber Stevens Craig Roberts T RE ND I N G N 1. All Of Me - John Legend 2. Happy - Pharrell Williams 3. Fancy - Iggy Azalea & Charli XCX 4. Problem - Ariana Grande & Mac Miller 5. Dark Horse - Katy Perry 6. Turn Down For What - DJ Snake & Lil John May 2014 7. Not A Bad Thing - Justin Timberlake 8. Let it Go - Idina Menzel 9. Summer - Calvin Harris 10. Young Girls - Bruno Mars 64 22 Jump Street O CHART TOPPERS W Phil Lord, Chris Miller The comedy action sequel to 21 Jump Street, this film trails a pair of underachieving cops who are sent back to a local high school to blend in and crack a case I n the action-comedy 21 Jump Street, Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum) were more than ready to leave their adolescent problems behind. Joining the police force and the secret Jump Street unit, they used their youthful appearances to go undercover at a local high school to investigate a violent and dangerous drug ring. In the sequel, ‘22 Jump Street’, the two are in for big changes in their partnerships when they go deep undercover at a local college. Jenko meets a kindred spirit on the football team and Schmidt infiltrates the bohemian art major scene and soon they begin to question their partnership. Now they don’t have to just crack the case - they have to figure out if they can have a mature relationship. If these two overgrown adolescents can grow from freshmen into real men, college might be the best thing that ever happened to them. Book s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget Upcoming Releases The Fault In Our Stars AShailene Woodley, Willem Dafoe, Laura Dern, Ansel Elgort A teenage girl stricken with cancer falls for a b in i her h supportt group and the two form boy a bond as they deal with their illnesses. Hazel and Gus are two extraordinary teenagers who share an acerbic wit, a disdain for the conventional, and a love that sweeps them on an unforgettable journey. Their relationship is all the more miraculous, given that they met and fall in love at a cancer support group. Book Review Yves Saint Laurentt Pierre Niney, Guillaume Gallienne, Charlotte Le Bon It is 1958 and 21-year old Yves Saint Laurent (Pierre Niney) is unexpectedly called to oversee the legendary Paris fashion house established by recently deceased Christian Dior. As he presents his first collection for Dior at a groundbreaking show, he meets Pierre Bergé (Guillaume Gallienne), with whom he sets up the Yves Saint Laurent Company, which would rapidly become one of the biggest luxury powerhouses on the planet. Transformers 4: Age Of Extinction Mark Wahlberg, Nicola Peltz, Brenton Thwaites, Jack Reynor, Stanley Tucci As humanity picks up the pieces, following the conclusion of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Autobots and Decepticons have all but vanished from the face of the planet. However, a group of powerful, ingenious businessman and scientists attempt to learn from past Transformer incursions and push the boundaries of technology beyond what they can control, while an ancient, powerful Transformer menace sets Earth in his crosshairs. Weddings by Martha Stewart Author: : Martha Stewart, Elizabeth B. Hawes, Chris Baker (Photographer) Martha Stewart takes the reader behind the scenes of some of the most lovely weddings ever. Over 40 weddings and receptions, from small, intimate celebrations for 18 to lavish parties for 400, are documented in more than 700 full-colour photographs. The settings are varied with more than 120 recipes for wedding receptions, from cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to buffets, sit-down lunches and dinners, and even barbecues. Author: Peggy Post & Emily Post This follow-up to Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette combines a lively, attractive design with streamlined practicality, providing important to–do checklists, questions to ask, vendor comparison charts, and budgeting information for easy use by busy brides. Peggy Post helps couples organise their decisions and move ahead with bringing their wedding to life. The Engaged Groom: You’re Getting Married Author: Doug Gordon The book covers much of the same territory as many others in this genre, but the difference is that Gordon does it with humour and intelligence and in a tone that is guy-friendly, yet not patronising. He suggests the groom get involved by choosing tasks that interest him and roles that are compatible with his existing skill sets. He provides practical advice, based on his experiences during his own engagement and marriage. May 2014 Emily Post’s Wedding Planner 65 Web World Chill Out G Movies Mo World Cup for Kids World ear up for the FIFA World Cup from 12th June to 13th July with Activity Village. Log into www.activityvillage.co.uk/world-cupfor-kids and enjoy a range of printable fun World Cup activities that you can easily share with your kids. Explore the worksheets, printables and puzzles so that you can start planning your activities well in advance and await for more World Cup treats to come your way. Look out for… World Cup Group Booklets: You could print and fold little booklets provided here for each of the groups in this year’s World Cup in Brazil. Cup Printables: Featuring a fun collection of printables for both you and the kids. World Cup Puzzles: Challenge your kids with these World Cup themed puzzles. World Cup Worksheets: Involve everyone at home with these fun World Cup worksheets... World Cup Group Bookmarks: The website has on offer a set of printable bookmarks for each group. World Cup Kit Worksheets: These worksheets, similar to the ones made available during the 2010 World Cup, will soon be online. May 2014 Riddle Time 66 1 2 3 4 5 How does a mouse feel after it takes a shower? Why did the dog cross the road twice? What is as big as an elephant but weighs nothing? What do you call a cow in a tornado? rnado? Why was the cat afraid of a tree? e? Riddle Time Answers (April 2014 issue) 1 2 What goes tick-tock, bow-wow, tick-tock, bow-wow? Answer: A watch dog. What do you call a cow that eats your grass? Answer: A lawn moo-er. 3 4 How does a dog stop a video? Answer: He presses the paws button What is snake’s favorite subject? Answer: Hiss-tory! 5 Why do cows go to New York? Answer: To see the moosicals! Book s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget Gadget Notes Donut-shaped video camera takes 360 degrees worth of footage The consumer-ready CENTR Camera, a donut-shaped video camera aims to make it easy to capture 360-degree HD footage, recording your world in full. The footage can be viewed in real time using the CENTR interactive player on a Wi-Fi connected desktop computer, tablet or smartphone. It looks like a normal video at first, but unlike your typical YouTube fare, you can scroll to spin it around. The CENTR can be used to capture timelapse panoramic sti still photos. The ca camera also in includes a sin single-sensor m mode for tim times when yo you just wa to shoot want traditionally with without the 360-degree effect. It’s also built to work with tripod and GoPro mounts, delivering a versatile filming platform for capturing everyday action. Night shift can treat sleep apnea and snoring Sleep apnea, a disorder caused by pauses in breathing and which produces a loud snort or choking sound when breathing resumes, is now believed to be treatable by a comfortable solution called Night Shift. Researchers who have developed it point out that sleeping on the back makes sleep apnea worse for 70 percent of people who suffer from the condition, while 65 percent of non-apneic snorers also belt out louder snores while sleeping in that position. To keep sleepers in the best position, the Night Shift device prompts the wearer to move positions by gentling vibrating when they start to sleep on their back. It is designed to be worn on the back of the neck with a silicone strap and magnetic clasp holding it in place – which should be a lot less obstructive than a facial mask. As well as preventing sleepers from rolling onto their backs, the device can also be used to monitor sleep quality, positioning and how often loud snoring is taking place. Comic strip etched on human hair A team of DIY artists and scientists has etched the world’s smallest comic strip on a single human hair. Titled ‘Juana Knits The Planet,’ the strip was created by German artist Claudia Puhlfurst, then carved into the hair using a process called focused ion beam (FIB) etching. Each of the strip’s 12 frames measures in at around 25 micrometers. A micrometer, or micron, is one millionth of a meter. A typical human hair is anywhere from 20 to 200 microns in width. Intelligent case for smartphone If you are looking for a little extra protection from bumps and scratches, and would like an extra bonus from your case, the Lunecase might be what you need. This is a sleek case available in black or white that is made of hard plastic with a thin rubber coating which will alert you if you have a text or incoming call through an illuminated icon on the back. You don’t need to charge it in any way, shape, or form as it uses the electromagnetic energy that your phone puts off. Laying face down, your screen won’t come into contact with the surface. It costs only around $39, and needs no setup or initial charges as it’s using what your phone puts off and reacts accordingly to it. FUN A lovesick kayaker wrote to a dating service explaining that he had specific criteria for a potential mate and would not accept anyone that doesn’t meet his standards. He went on to explain the young lady must be cute, short, enjoy cold water and paddling. He received a reply the following week. It contained a picture of a penguin! A May 2014 A man walked into a pizza parlour and ordered a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6. He thought about it for some time before responding... “Just cut it into 4 pieces, I don’t think I’m hungry enough to eat 6 pieces.” team of little animals and a team of big animals decided to play football. During the first half of the game, the big animals were winning. But during the second half, a centipede scored so many touchdowns that the little animals won the game. When the game was over, the chipmunk asked the centipede, “Where were you during the first half?” He replied “Putting on my shoes!” 67 Chill Out Movies Mo Futurescope June 2014 GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Are you encouraged by improvements in work-related or financial matters? If yes, now is the time to ensure that you do not lose your perspective. Do not overinvest in areas that have yet to be tested; it’s definitely not wise to go charging ahead. On the home front, you’ll be happy to find this to be a slow-paced month. A Taurus co-worker might be the source of aggravation – especially if you’re in a management position. But don’t fret; news of an engagement is bound to add a bright note to the month. AQUARIUS Not dealing with a problem won’t make it go away. It will only get worse. Face it head on and work to fix it. Tell yourself that by the 24th you will be able to strike a proper balance in your life. A disappointment early in the month will prove to be a blessing in disguise. PISCES Instead of trying to relieve the symptoms of an ongoing problem, you’d be better off looking for a permanent cure. But remember that secrets, sometimes, must be kept. Try to give a loved one extra space if he/she is in a crabby mood. Beware of a Leo with bad intentions. ARIES May 2014 Angelina Jolie 68 June 4, 1975 Angelina Jolie, born Angelina Jolie Voight, is an American actress, film director, screenwriter, and author. Interestingly, she dropped out of acting classes at the age of 14 and aspired to become a funeral director. However, she has, since, received an Academy Award, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and three Golden Globe Awards, and was named Hollywood’s highest-paid actress by Forbes in 2009, 2011 and 2013. Cited as the world’s ‘most beautiful’ woman, she is actively involved in various humanitarian causes, and is noted for her work with refugees as a Special Envoy and former Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Money matters aren’t as serious as they may seem earlier in the month. Keep an eye on the balance sheet, so that you are not accused of being extravagant. A misunderstanding between you and a family member could turn into a full-blown fight if you’re not careful. Explain yourself and make your intentions clear. TAURUS Foreign travel may appeal to you; so let others see others see how independent you can be. They may try to dissuade you from giving in to your whims, but you will feel more resolute than ever. Set your sights high without losing sight of the fact that there are some things in life you just can’t have. CANCER You have held yourself back in a field in which much may be expected of you, but this month you will decide to step up to the plate. A lot will depend on the support of others. You may not want to lean on them indefinitely, but can learn from their experience. A tough decision midmonth will take up much of your thoughts. Trust your instincts rather than logic to help you choose. LEO People anxious for your advice may have to wait in line. Loved ones will feel they deserve your help more than others. Think carefully about where your loyalties lie and hold on to your values. If you are too materialistic, you may miss out in other ways. A friend who’s moved away will move back into your area. VIRGO People in your circle might feel compelled to question the cost of your exotic ventures, but that shouldn’t stop you. Approach the areas of conflict with respectful arguments. Expect some improvement in your work situation. In matters of romance, too, there are happy times ahead. Libra By investing in your future, you will undoubtedly get a good return and will impress others around you. Use your Libran tenacity to get things done. A loved one’s kindness will give you reason to smile. Romance looks promising. SCORPIO Do not hesitate to admit you have misgivings if undertaking a calculated risk; but assure them that you are confident about getting the best outcome. A new Libra friend will give you valuable insight into a troubling situation. If you’ve been feeling worn out lately, you may want to take note of your sleeping habits. SAGITTARIUS Of course you need to be mindful of the rules and guidelines, but let them not cramp your style when dealing with vulnerable people or situations. If you’re working on an important project, be sure to stay focused on it; do not let little things distract you. Watch for investment opportunities later in the month. CAPRICORN Try not to rebel when your immediate boss suggests that you perform routine tasks. Be especially cautious if you’re dealing with an extra-sensitive Pisces. What you think of as harmless teasing may come off as offensive or even hurtful to someone who doesn’t appreciate your sense of humour. Take the lead when planning a special event. Book s Gadget Riddle Web World Horoscope Trivia Books Gadget Weird News $8,000 statue of local feline celebrity The Scottish town of St. Andrews unveiled a new statue of their local cat celebrity — the 14-year-old ginger stray, Haimish McHamish. More than $8,000 was raised by the community to immortalise the fuzzy feline, who has spent the last several years adventuring nomadically around town. Hamish himself attended the unveiling event, and arrived to greet his adoring fans in a convertible, his fluffy ginger mane blowing in the wind. The statue can be found at the centre of Church Square, where it will remain as a reminder that cats really do ‘own’ their owners. Vertical catwalk in Japan Models dressed in Gucci strutted down a vertical catwalk in Japan’s shopping district. The gravity-defying fashion show marked the 10th anniversary of the fashion magazine Precious. Seven performers dressed in Gucci dresses and suits and harnessed with wires, walked on a vertical runway that stretched upward on the wall of a 42-metrehigh building. This is the first such fashion show in Japan. Librarian finds letters from 1967 A New Mexico librarian discovered a blast from the past - specifically 1967 - when she was cleaning the library of Hermosa Middle School in Farmington. She found 31 letters, all dated April 1967, inside a cardboard box. According to the letters, they were written by students and were meant to be given to the class of 1987. In the letters, the students touch on numerous topics including the Vietnam War, the space race and miniskirts. The students who wrote those letters were invited to an annual celebration on May 19 at the school. Wedding gowns were not always white Wedding gowns haven’t always been white… - Over the centuries, brides who were interested in fashion have often got married in different colours. - It was common for women not to buy a new dress for the occasion, but to simply get married in their best existing outfit. - Pink was a popular colour and was considered most suitable for a May wedding; but some superstitions held it to be unlucky. - The deeper shade of red was a taboo by Victorian times, with its reference to scarlet women and hussies. - Amongst the unpopular shades was green; it was considered the fairies’ colour and bad luck to call attention of the little folk to oneself during a time of transition. - Any natural shade of brown or beige was considered rustic. - The bright shade of yellow has had varied popularity. In the 18th century it was the trendy colour for a while. - For brides of lower classes, a common shade of gown was grey; it was a useful colour to reuse as Sunday best. - The white (or ivory) wedding dress – popularised by Queen Victoria, who wore one at her wedding to Prince Albert in 1840 – has endured over the years. - During World War II they would borrow a dress or wear their service uniform. Women in the armed forces could also hire a dress, and some brides made dresses out of curtain fabric. - Brides in China traditionally wear red. An unnamed Maryland high school senior was arrested and charged with mailing animal feces to the vice principal of his school. The student was suspended for 10 days. The male student has also been charged with three counts of disturbing activities at school and three counts of molesting a school administrator. When he was arrested, the student admitted to mailing the fecal matter saying it was dog and cow poop. The postal service, however, has said it will not pursue federal charges. May 2014 Student arrested for mailing poop to vice principal 69 Airlines SEARCHING Emergency 1 SEARCHING Airlines Airlines Emergency Cinema May 2014 Beauty 70 Flight information ....................... 24519456 Aeroflot ....................................... 24704455 Ahlan Lounge ............................. 24519088 Air Arabia ................................... 24700828 Air France ................................... 24562153 Air India...................................... 24762111 Air Maldives ............................... 24566046 Air New Zealand ......................... 24700326 Bangladesh Airlines.................... 24701128 British Airways............................ 24568777 Cathay Pacific ............................. 24789818 Continental Airlines.................... 24816565 Egypt Air .................................... 24794113 Emirates Airlines ........................ 24404444 Ethiopia Airlines ......................... 24660314 Gulf Air .......................24703222, 80072424 Iran Aseman ............................... 24660313 Japan Airlines ............................. 24704455 Jet Airways ..................24787248/24787246 Kenya Airways ............................ 24660317 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines ........... 24566737 Kuwait Airways ........................... 24701262 Lufthansa..................................... 24796692 Malaysian Airlines ...................... 24560796 Middle East Airlines ................... 24796680 Oman Air .................................... 24531111 Pakistan International Airlines................... .................................................... 24792471 Qatar Airways ............................ 24771900 Qantas ........................................ 24559941 Royal Jordanian ........................... 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines ................ 24789485 Shaheen Air International ........... 24817021 Singapore Airlines ...................... 24791233 Sri Lankan Airlines ..................... 24784545 Swiss International Air Lines ...... 24796692 Syrian Airlines ............................ 24797567 Thai Airways ............................... 24705934 Turkish Airways ................ 24703033/ 2778 Emergency Hospitals Al Nahdha Hospital ..................... 24837800 Khoula Hospital........................... 24560455 Muscat Private Hospital .............. 24583600 Royal Hospital ............................. 24599000 Al Raffah Hospital .................. 98294371/70 KIMS Oman Hospital ................... 24760100 Electricity Muscat / Muttrah ........................ 24714300 Ruwi ............................................ 24701821 Salalah ........................................ 23219188 Water General Enquiries ..............................1442 Muttrah ...................................... 24795775 Salalah ....................................... 23290222 Cinema City Cinema Ruwi ................. 2456 7664/68 City Cinema Al Shatti ........... 2456 7664/68 City Cinema MGM................ 2456 7664/68 City Cinema Sohar ............... 2456 7664/68 Star Cinema ................................ 24791641 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540855 Cinema Beauty Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments Retail Sports Travel & Tour Operators Eat Out Beauty Al Lilac Beauty Center ................ 24483994 Al Nahda Resort and Spa, Barka ................ 26883710 Ayana Spa ................................... 24693435 Beauty Centre ............................. 24697585 Beauty Today .............................. 24568991 Chi Spa, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa ....................................... 24776666 Daksha’s Salon ............................ 24562596 Emirates Medical Center............ 24604540 Essence Spa................................ 24603225 Europe Beauty Centre & Health ................. Club, CBD ................................... 24797813 Europe Beauty Centre & Spa .................... Wadi Kabir.................................. 24815805 Grand Spa................................... 24695766 Grand Spa (Bareeq Al Shatti)..................... .................................................. 95588880 Hana’s Slimming & Skincare ....... 24697270 Holistic Skin & Hair Care ............ 24601134 Hollywood Beauty Centre ........... 24568292 Kaya Skin Clinic ................ 24601700/4300 Kottakal Arya Vaidya Sala ........... 24701555 Manal Beautician ........................ 24479655 Muscat Beauty Salon ................... 24562541 Muscat Slimming Centre ............ 24565687 Nadia Beauty Salon ..................... 24689777 Nails Spa ..................................... 24699440 Raz Hair and Beauty Salon .......... 24692219 Saharz Beauty Centre ................................ ................................24695151 / 24696161 Signature .................................... 24490282 Sri Sri Ayurveda Clinic .............................. ..................................24480874, 92800793 The Chedi, The Spa .................... 24524400 Tips & Toes Nails Spa.................. 24603969 The Spa Bar for Men ................... 24698681 Touch & Glow Beauty.................. 24791979 VLCC .......................................... 24695157 Perry's Saloon ............................. 24538539 Airlines Emergency Cinema Beauty Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments Retail Sports Travel & Tour Operators Eat Out Oman on your ÀQJHUWLSV Health Clubs Muscat Region Al Bustan Palace Hotel ................ 24799666 Al Bahjah Hotel ........................... 24424400 Al-Khuwayr Hotel Apts ............... 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn ................ 24596400 Al Fanar Hotel ............................. 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel .............................. 24702311 Azaiba Hotel Apartments........................... ................................24490979 / 99424470 Beach Hotel ................................ 24696601 Bowshar Hotel............................. 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat ..................... 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat.................. 24660660 Golden Tulip Seeb...................... 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat .................... 24641234 Haffa House Hotel ....................... 24707207 Holiday Inn Muscat ..................... 24487123 InterContinental Muscat ............. 24680000 Best Western Hotel ..................... 24692121 Majan Continental Hotel ............. 24592900 Marina Hotel ............................... 24711711 Mina Hotel .................................. 24711828 Muttrah Hotel .............................. 24798401 Nuzha Hotel Apts ........................ 24789199 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Park Inn ...................................... 24507888 Qurm Beach House Hotel ........... 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat.......... 24487777 Ramada Qurm Beach .................. 24603555 Ramee Guestline Hotel ............... 24564443 Ramee Dream Resort .................. 24453399 Ruwi Hotel .................................. 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites...................... 24691200 Qurum Beach Resort Hotel ......... 24605945 Shangri La’s Barr Al JissahResort and Spa .....................24776666, 800708102 The Chedi Muscat....................... 24524400 Al Dhakliya Nizwa Hotel................................. 25431616 Al Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel............. 25410500 Adam Motel ................................ 25434975 Al Diyar Hotel ............................. 25412402 Bader Aslam Motel ..................... 25435007 Bahla Hotel ................................. 25420211 Matan Motel ................................ 99062641 Majan Guest House..................... 25431910 Tanoof Guest House.................... 25411601 Al Batinah Al Nahda Resort & Spa .............................. ............................... 26883710/ 992RELAX Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Sohar Beach Hotel ...................... 26841111 Al Wadi Hotel .............................. 26840058 Al Suwaiq Hotel .......................... 26862241 Green Oasis Motel ...................... 26846442 Ghurnata Hotel Apartments........ 26844539 Al Sharqiya Al Ashkara .................................. 25566266 Al Qabil Resthouse ..................... 25581243 Al Raha Tourism Camp ............... 99343851 Al Sharqiya Gardens................... 99332264 Al Sharqiya Sands Hotel ............. 99205112 Al Wasil Camp ............................ 99332264 Desert Safaris ............................. 25593232 Golden Sands Camp................... 99445092 Ibra Hotel.................................... 25571873 Mahoot Hotel .............................. 25504401 Marsa Sur Hotel Apartments....... 25540784 Masirah Motel ............................. 25504401 Ras Al Hadd Beach Hotel ........... 25542031 Musandam Millennium Resort ...................... 26871555 Khasab Hotel .............................. 26730267 Qada Hotel ................................. 26731664 Isra Hotel Apartments................. 26730562 Al Wusta Ghaftain Rest House ................... 99485881 Ghaba Rest House ...................... 99358639 Haima Motel ............................... 23436061 Qatbit Motel................................ 99085686 Dhofar Hilton Hotel Salalah .................... 23211234 Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah ...... 23235333 Haffa House Hotel Salalah........... 23295444 Al Hanna Hotel............................ 23290274 Al Jabal Hotel .............................. 23210611 Al Mazyuna Hotel........................ 23293340 Al Nassr Hotel ............................. 23294815 Al Saada Tourism Complex ........ 23225250 Bamasir Hotel ............................. 23293340 Darbat Hotel ............................... 23295877 Dhofar Tourist Hotel.................... 23282300 Redan Hotel ................................ 23292255 Salalah Beach Hotel Apts ............ 23235999 Salalah Hotel ............................... 23295332 Samahram Hotel Apts ................. 23295444 Thumrit Tourist Hotel .................. 23279371 Al Dhahira Al Buraimi Hotel.......................... 25652010 Abha Hotel.................................. 25654700 Al Aeilat Hotel Apts .................... 25654330 Al Baraka Oasis Hotel Apts ......... 25650955 Al Dhahira Hotel ......................... 25650492 Al Masah Hotel ........................... 25653007 Al Raha Hotel Apts ...................... 24701898 Al Sharq House Hotel Apts ......... 24702399 Hamasa Hotel.............................. 25651200 Ibri Oasis Hotel........................... 25489955 Nafahat Al Burami Hotel Flats ..... 25654777 SEARCHING Hotel & Hotel Apartments 2 Health Clubs Hotel & Hotel Apartments May 2014 Your Fitness Quotient.... Al Falaj Health Club ........................24702311 Al Majan Hotel ................................24592900 Al Qurum Resort .............................24605945 Adam’s Fitness Center ....................24684989 Balance Health & Fitness ...............24564132 Bodylines, Al Sawadi ......................26795545 Body Speak ......................................24765578 Crowne Plaza...................................24660660 Fitbody Gym....................................24601970 Fontana Club Radisson Blu ...........24487777 487777 Future Health Club .........................24600030 600030 Grand Hyatt Club Olympus ...........24641234 641234 Golden Tulip ....................................24510300 510300 Hammer Gym .................................24483399 483399 Horizon Fitness Center ..................24571337 571337 InterContinental Muscat ...............24680000 680000 Muscat Holiday Inn ........................24487123 487123 Samaa Health Club .........................24694892 694892 Qurum Beach Resort Hotel ...........24605945 605945 Crowne Plaza Salalah .....................23235333 235333 Hilton Salalah ..................................23211234 211234 Sohar Beach Resort.........................26841111 841111 Sky Club, Park Inn ..........................24507888 507888 71 Sports Basketball Oman Basketball Association .... 24796780 Boating Retail SEARCHING 3 Retail May 2014 Sports 72 Al Araimi Complex ..................... 24566180 Al Khamis Plaza .......................... 24562791 Al Harthy Complex ..................... 24564481 Al Wadi Commercial Centre ...................... .................................................. 24564782 Alasfoor Plaza ............................. 24564686 Capital Commercial Complex (CCC) ...... .................................................. 24567338 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex ....... 24692113 Khimji Megastore........................ 24708075 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540222 Sabco Center .............................. 24562761 Capital are Yacht club ................. 24737712 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Grand Hyatt Boat House ............. 24641234 Gulf Leisure ................................ 99819005 Marina Bander Al Rowdha .......... 24737288 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours ............ .................................................. 92645889 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Bowling Al Masa Bowling ......................... 24693991 Oman Bowling Centre ................ 24480747 Seeb Novotel .............................. 24510300 Classes Al Falaj Hotel (Martial Arts, Tennis, ........... Swimming).................................. 24702311 Grand Hyatt Muscat (Aerobics, Ballet, Salsa, Yoga for women) ............... 24641234 InterContinental Muscat (Fitness workouts, Aqua Aerobics, Spin, Pilates+) ... 24680000 Cricket Oman Cricket Club .................... 24703142 Cycling Muscat Cycling ........................... 98453580 Diving & Snorkeling Al Khuwair ..................96473101, 24601569 Fahad Plaza, Ruwi ....................... 96725845 Muscat City Centre .................................... ..................................96473113, 24558063 Sohar .......................................... 95119656 Salalah ........................................ 23289260 Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Blu Zone Watersports.................. 24737293 Desert Adventures ...................... 95201107 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Dimaniyat Diving ........................ 24795545 Global Scuba .............................. 99317518 Gulf Leisure ................................ 24693561 Musandam Extra Divers.............. 99877957 Muscat Divers ............................. 99355671 Muscat Diving and Adventure Cente......... .................................................. 24485663 Ocean Boats Diving and Sea Tours ........... .................................................. 92645889 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Sub Aqua Dive Centre Salalah .... 92471073 Muscat City Centre Golf Centrepoint Muscat City Centre (Mall) .......... 24558888 Bata (Footwear) ........................... 24558855 Emax (Electronics) ..................... 24558062 Home Centre .............................. 24558063 Max (Fashion) ........................ 24558981/82 Origem (Fashion)........................ 92648542 Oysho (Fashion).......................... 24558865 Rado (Watches) ........... 9776492, 92247101 Salsa (Fashion) ............................ 24558631 Sunglass Hut ............................... 24558869 Zara (Fashion) ............................. 24558887 Zara Home .................................. 24558869 Muscat Grand Mall Muscat Grand Mall ..................... 22000000 Almouj Golf Club........................ 22005990 Ghala Valley Golf Club ............... 24591248 Muscat Hills Golf Club ................ 24510065 Hiking Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ....... 24485663 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Horse Riding Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Al Sawahil Horse Riding ............. 95177557 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Qurum Equestrian School........... 99832199 Ice Sports Ice Skating Centre ...................... 24489492 Jet Skiing Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Kayaking Al Sawadi Beach Resort .............. 26795545 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ...... .................................................. 24485663 Rob Gardner ............................... 99239658 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Motor Sports Bikers Oman ............................... 99556430 Harley Davidson Owners Group ............... .................................................. 99310853 Oman Automobile Association ................. .................................................. 24510239 Rock Climbing Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ........................................ 24485663 Rob Gardner ............................... 99239658 Rugby Muscat Rugby Club .................... 24604890 Running Muscat Road Runners ................. 24692903 Sailing Castaways Sailing Club ............. 24594613 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Sport Fishing Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Grand Hyatt Boathouse ............... 24641234 Gulf Leisure ................................ 99819006 Muscat Diving and Adventure Center ...... .................................................. 24485663 Oman Dive Center...................... 24824240 Marina Bandar Al Rowdha .......... 24737288 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Water World Marine ................... 24737438 Squash Al Falaj Hotel .............................. 24702311 Al Sawadi .................................... 26795545 Crowne Plaza Muscat.................. 24660660 Grand Hyatt Muscat .................... 24641234 Tennis Oman Tennis Association ........... 24751902 Khasab Travel and Tours............................ 26730464 Kurban Tours & Travel ................ 24699886 Mark Tours .................................. 24782727 Marmul Travel and Tours ............ 24482868 Majan Travel ............................... 24785728 Mezoon Travel ............................ 24796680 Midland Tourism......................... 24566524 Moon Travels ............................. 24793551 Nahar Tourism Oasis .................. 99387654 National Travels & Tourism (NTT) .............. 24660376 Nomad Tours .............................. 95495240 Nomadic Adventures and Tours................. 99336273 NTT Tours............................... 24660378/70 OTTB ........................................... 24789845 Oasis Tours .................24499922, 99440441 Oman Geo Tours......................... 24600914 Oman Discovery ......................... 24706424 Oman National Transport ........... 24490046 Oman World Tourism .................. 99252680 Orient Holidays .......................... 24478902 OUA Travel ................................. 24559900 Premier Tours ............................. 99222620 Rawabi Desert Adventures ......... 95201107 Remal Al Sharqiya Tourism......... 24544525 Rusayl Travel .............................. 24510012 Salalah City Services .................. 23299663 Salalah Tourism........................... 23292289 Sama Al Wasil Tourism Village................... 99604004 Shanfari Travel and Tours ........... 27602710 Sumahram Falcon ....................... 95774166 Sun and Sand Tours .................... 99373928 Sunny Day Tours, Travel & Adventure ........ 24490055 Steps Travel and Tourism............ 24488891 Tour Oman .................................. 24799966 United Tours ............................... 24787448 Zahara Tours ............................... 24400844 4 SEARCHING ABC Tourism ............................. 244582663 Adonis Oman Travel & Tours 24693371 Advantage Travel & Tours ........... 95220095 Airborne Travels......................... 24479295 Al Azure Tours .......................... 244565745 Amazing Arabia ..........24701454/99310005 Al Ahlam Tours ......................... 244892612 Al Areesh Wahiba Camp ............ 99317107 Al Daleel Tours ........................... 23296503 Al Ghadeer ................................. 99325441 Al Ghubayra ............................... 24812874 Al Haditha ................................... 24603587 Al Hashar Tourism & Travels ....... 24836100 Al Hasn Araimi Travel ................. 24799966 Al Maskry Tourism & Travels ...... 24595241 Al Naheem .................................. 24478192 Al Noor ....................................... 99318822 Al-Qandeel Travel & Tourism ..... 24643877 Al Raha Tourism Camp ............... 99343851 Al Sawson ................................... 24485637 Arabian Sands Tour Services ...... 24785027 Arabian Sea Safaris..................... 24693223 Arabian Trails ............................. 24475437 Arise Travel and Tour ................. 24605825 AST Tours ....................24571311, 23298085 Bahwan Travel Agencies............. 24797405 Choice Holidays ......................24660364/7 Desert Discovery ........................ 24493232 Desert Thunder........................... 95555153 Eihab Travels .............................. 24683900 Elite Travel & Tourism................. 24485020 Empty Quarter Tours .................. 99387654 Ena Tourism ................................ 23298500 Global Tours ............................... 24484156 Golden Oryx Tours ..................... 24489853 Gulf Leisure ................................ 24693561 Gulf Ventures .............................. 24559985 Kanoo Travel ............................... 24700249 Travel & Tour Operators Ma M May ay 2 2014 014 01 Travel & Tour Operators 73 73 SEARCHING 5 May 2014 A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes 74 Arabian Al Deyar ...........................................24603553 Next to Shatti Plaza Kababji ............................................24488846 Al Khuwair Al Khanjar ........................................24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Kargeen Café AL Harthy Complex ........................24560531 Centrepoint .................................... 24694048 MQ Complex ...................................24692269 Al Istanbuli ......................................24480900 Next to Rawasco, Al Khuwair Al Reef Al Lebnani ..........................24485775 Al Khuwair, Opp Safeer Bld Al Tanoor .........................................24776540 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Al Zafran ..........................................26841111 Sohar Beach Hotel Arab World Al Ghubrah ......................................24491734 Ruwi High St. ...................................24798119 Automatic Al Khuwair .......................................24487200 Azaiba...............................................24499981 Bareeq Al Shatti...............................24605735 Qurum..............................................24561500 Seeb ..................................................24424343 Beirut Restaurant ............................24568411 Near Qurum Roundabout Bin Ateeq Al Khuwair .......................................24478225 CBD ..................................................24702727 Camilia Restaurant and Cafe.........24706663 CBD Irani House ......................................24698098 Al Khoud ..........................................24545741 Azaiba ..............................................24491921 Jabal Lebnan....................................24698098 Al Noor Plaza, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos Al Jood Restaurant .........................24472630 Al Khuwair Samar .............................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa Samat (Iranian food) MQ.....................................................99 889394 Qurum................................................24605515 Shahrazad ........................................24776565 Al Husn Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Shiraz................................................24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Tarboosh Opp Sabco Centre...........................24565673 Al Ghubrah ......................................24498553 The Arabian Courtyard .................24524400 The Chedi Muscat The Khanjar Omani Cuisine ..........24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Turkish House .................................24488071 Al Khuwair Ubhar ...............................................24565689 Bareeq Al Shatti Wadi Hadramout Restaurant Al Khuwair ......................................24475282 Al Ahli Cafe ................................ 24424400 Al Bahjah Hotel Al Falaj Coffee Shop ................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Al Fursan ................................... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Al Maha ...................................... 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn Al Makan Café Muscat City Centre ..................... 24545311 Shatti Al Qurum .......................... 24404200 Al Mas......................................... 24491105 Bowsher Hotel Deluxe Atrium Tea Lounge ..................... 24764000 Al Bustan Palace Barista ......................................... 24571531 Sabco Centre Cafe Barbera .............................. 24603505 Near Shatti Cinema, Shatti Al Qurum Café Capuccino .......................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel Café Ceramique ......................... 24566617 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum Caribou Coffee........................... 24694473 Bareeq Al Shatti Mood Café Madinat Plaza ............................. 92125639 Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24538752 Casa de Cafe .............................. 24499565 Midan Hotel Suites Patisserie .................................... 24479344 Risail Complex, Seeb Colombian Aroma Cafe .............. 24693131 Bareeq Al Shatti Petit Café .................................... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Coffee Republic........................ 244703739 Qurum City Centre Pink Berry................................... 24558113 Muscat City Centre Costa Coffee Seeb Intnl Airport ....................... 24519734 MQ .............................................. 24692858 Muscat City Center..................... 24535895 Oasis by the Sea ......................... 24605574 Alasfoor Plaza ............................. 24571236 Lulu Bowsher .............................. 24503861 Bareeq Al Shatti .......................... 24692699 MBD ............................................ 24793169 Pooldeck ..................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Chado Tea Lounge..................... 24500773 Oasis By The Sea D’Arcy’s Kitchen Jawaharat A Shatti ....................... 24600234 MQ .............................................. 24699119 Glacier Café Markaz Al Bahja ......................... 24540200 Zakher Mall ................................ 24540391 Café de Lotus.............................. 24560439 Al Khamis Plaza Gloria Jean's Coffees .................. 24662940 Fun Zone, Qurum, MGM........................................... 22009295 Café G Patisserie ........................ 99531999 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos Golden Bean Café ..................... 96969645 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum Café Samaharam......................... 24707207 Haffa House Hotel Grind Floor ................................. 24487777 Radisson Blu Café Torque ................................ 24500773 Azaiba Le Mermaid Café ........................ 24602327 Near Grand Hyatt Muscat Café Unique................................ 96684686 Ruwi Majlis al Shams ........................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Richoux cafe .............................. 22005165 Opera Galleria Ground Floor Rumours Cafe ............................. 24692121 Coral Hotel Muscat Second Cup CCC, Qurm ................................. 24566616 Shatti Al-Qurum .......................... 24699951 Bareeq Al Shatti .......................... 24697776 Sirj Tea Lounge ........................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Shalashil Café ............................ 24498008 Star Hotel Apartments, Ghubra Starbucks Ernst and Young bldg ................. 24567644 Jawaharat A’Shatti ....................... 24601457 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24558861 MQ .............................................. 24699367 Borders, Muscat City Centre....... 24558636 Qurum City Centre ..................... 24470588 Surf Cafe ..................................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Sidewalk Cafe and Deli .............. 24563058 CCC, Qurm 6 A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes Mokha Cafe ................................ 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat May 2014 Cafe’s SEARCHING Café Vergnano 1882.................... 24692370 Madinat as Sultan Qaboos Mokha Cafe ................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa 75 Far Eastern Bamboo Kitchen ......................... 96969645 Al Araimi Complex, Qurum China Mood ................................ 24764000 Al Bustan Palace InterContinental - Muscat China Town ................................. 24567974 CCC, Qurm, MBD Chinese Durbar .......................... 24486688 Al Khuwair Chinese Garden ......................... 24489414 Al Khuwair, Near Ice Skating Rink 7 Chinese Palace ........................... 99563368 Al Wadi Commercial Centre Pal Meera.................................... 24692368 Shatti Al Qurum SEARCHING Golden Dragon ........................... 24697374 Madinat As Sultan Qaboos Golden Oryx .............................. 24702266 Rex Road A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes Silk Route Chinese & Thai........... 24696967 Al Noor Plaza, Madinat As Sultan Qaboos Jade Garden................................ 24605945 Al Qurm Resort May 2014 Chicking Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540200 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24489575 Cold Stone Creamery ................................ 24470614, 95202436 Qurum City Centre Coral Express ............................. 24540200 Markaz Al Bahja Dairy Queen Jawaharat A’Shatti ....................... 24693031 Lulu, Ghubrah ............................. 24504504 Seeb Intnl Airport ....................... 24519468 DQ Grill & Chill .......................... 24693031 Jawaharat A’Shatti Lai Thai ....................................... 98025189 Al Khuwair Domino’s Pizza ............................ 24479111 Al Khuwair Magic Wok Muscat City Centre ..................... 24537118 Qurum City Centre ..................... 24470596 Mamasan .................................... 24210452 Dunkin’ Donuts Ghala .......................................... 96177967 MQ .............................................. 96177967 Shatti Cinema ............................. 96177967 Marjan Rest. and Pool Bar ........... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Gourmet Burger Kitchen............. 24558065 Muscat City Centre Meji’s Aroy Thai .......................... 99839595 Shatti Al Qurum Narjeel ........................................ 24560606 Asas Oman Hotel Apartments Palayok ....................................... 24797290 Ruwi High Street, opp. OC Centre Al Khuwair Shang Thai ................................. 24483083 Al Khuwair slip road Royal China ............................... 24571339 Shatti Al Qurum Hot Pot & Grills ........................... 24404291 Bareeq Al Shatti Thai Basil .................................... 24499565 Midan Hotel Suites, Ghubrah The Noodle House ...................... 24558377 Muscat City Centre 76 Fast Food Tokyo Taro .................................. 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Wasabi Sushi............................... 24699490 Bareeq Al Shatti Il Gelato Di Bruno ....................... 95275987 Oasis By the Sea Hardees ...................................... 24477774 Al Khuwair, Wattyah, Al Khoud, City Centre One number for all the four stores Hot and Crispy ........................... 24699524 Al Masa Mall, Sarooj Just Falafel................................... 22009922 Muscat Grand Mall KFC ............................................. 24477777 One number for all the 21 stores Ruwi, Qurum, Al Khuwair, MCC, QCC, Lulu Ghubra and Darsait, Near Airport, Azaiba Roundabout McDonald’s Al Khuwair .................................. 24482046 As Sarooj..................................24691033/4 Muscat City Center..................... 24545773 Book Roundabout ....................... 24421119 Qurm Behind CCC ..................... 24565798 Papa John’s Pizza Lulu, Ghubrah ............................. 24501111 MQ .............................................. 24697220 Qurum ........................................ 24571100 Muscat Intl Airport...................... 24519468 Ruwi ............................................ 24793153 Al Khoudh ................................... 24546516 Penguin Ghubrah ..................................... 24493963 Seeb............................................ 24422004 Sultan Qaboos University ........... 24413144 Pizza Inn Ruwi ............................................ 24784555 Al Araimi Compex, Qurum ......... 24566661 Pizza Muscat Al Khuwair .................................. 24483393 Al Harthy Complex ..................... 24565618 MBD ............................................ 24817715 Pizza Hut ..................................... 24822500 Wadi Kabir, MBD, Rex Road, Qurum, CCC, QCC, MSQ, Al Khuwair, Ghala, Bowsher, Ghoubra, Airport, Al Khoud, Mawallah, Mabella, Barka Subway Oman Oil, Qurum Jabal .............. 24666704 Al Khuwair .................................. 24593963 Al Masa Mall ............................... 24604664 CCC............................................ 24560327 MQ .............................................. 24694774 Muscat City Centre ..................... 24558080 Wally’s Markaz Al Bahja .......................... 24540200 Al Masa Mall ............................... 24543154 Al Khuwair .................................. 24502929 Indian Lazeez ........................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa Aaryans ..................................... 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel It’s Mirchi ................................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel Ananthapuri .............................. 24706226 Opp. Muscat Municipality, Darsait Mumtaz Mahal ............................ 24605907 Qurum Annapoorna ............................... 24810396 MBD Mughlai Zaika ............................. 24568200 Wattayah Biryani House ............................. 24488478 Al Khuwayr Omar Al Khayyam Restaurant .................... Ruwi ..........................24703035/ 24707082 Al Khoudh ..................24535001/ 24539718 Curry House ............................... 24564033 Wattayah Mullapanthal ............................... 95267540 Ruwi Chowpatty .................................. 24488829 Al Khuwair Daawat ........................................ 24787980 Ruwi Divine ......................................... 24705070 Ruwi Dosteen Restaurant ..................... 24622850 Seeb Happy Village ............................. 24564995 Qurum Horizon Restaurant ..................... 24798252 Ruwi Hot Pot Restaurant...................... 24700691 Near Khimji’s Mart, Darsait Kamat Al Khuwair .................................. 24479243 Ruwi ............................................ 24783300 Passage To India ......................... 24568480 Behind Hatat House Princess ...................................... 24482213 Al Khuwair Punjabi Dhaba ............................ 24787755 Darsait Puranmal...................24707172 / 24706969 CBD 8 Sagar .......................................... 24794114 Ruwi Saravanaa Bhavan ................ 24704502 / 07 Near Ruwi Roundabout Spicy Village.............................................. Al Khuwair .................................. 24475518 Rusayl ........................................ 24510120 Nizwa ......................................... 25431694 Sohar ......................................... 24843238 Sur ............................................. 25544594 Customer Care ............... 800spicy (77429) Sayujya Restaurant...................... 24816909 MBD Italian Swagath Veg Restaurant.............. 24707676 Ruwi Capri Court ................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa The Indus Restaurant .................. 22022888 Opera Gallaria - Shatti Al Qurum Come Prima................................ 24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Muscat Keranadu .................................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel Taj Samarkhand Restaurant ........ 24582040 Muscat Oasis Residence, Bowsher Khana Khazana............................ 24813466 Ruwi Tawa Magic ................................ 24703300 CBD Mediterranean Grill.................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Khyber ........................................ 24781901 CBD The Great Kabab Factory............ 24478373 Al Khuwair Koliwada .................................... 99421778 MBD The Taj ........................................ 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort O Sole Mio .................................. 24487777 Radisson Blu - Muscat Trattoria ...................................... 24210451 Kumkum...................................... 24714114 Muttrah Woodlands.................................. 24700192 MBD, Ruwi Pane Caldo ................................. 24698697 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex Pizza Express .............................. 24696169 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al-Qurum Tuscany....................................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat SEARCHING Copper Chimney........................ 24780207 CBD A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes May 2014 The Bollywood ............................ 24565653 Qurm, Behind CCC 77 International Al Bandar Lounge ....................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa SEARCHING 9 A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes May 2014 Japengo....................................... 92892868 Qurum Al Aktham ................................... 24489292 Al Khuwair, behind OIB Jean’s Grill .................................. 24567666 Sultan Center A’Rifaak ...................................... 92558842 Al Khoud, Main Street Jungle ......................................... 24561600 Qurum Rose Garden AlExandria.................................. 24561611 Qurum, next to Sabco Center Khaboura Cafe............................ 24592900 Majan Hotel Al Khiran Terrace Restaurant ..................... Al Bustan Palace ......................... 24764000 Khalab .......................................992RELAX Al Nahda Resort & Spa Sundowner’s Beach Bar............... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Al Waha Lounge ......................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa La Brassiere ............................... 2471 3707 Muttrah TGIF ............................................ 24488899 Al Khuwair, City Seasons Hotel La Mer ........................................ 95038487 Shatti Al Qurum The Beach Restaurant ................. 24524400 The Chedi Muscat Left Bank ..................................... 24693699 Below Mumtaz Mahal restaurant, Qurum The Chedi Pool Cabana.............. 24524400 The Chedi Muscat Le Jardin...................................... 24510300 Golden Tulip Seeb The Crepe Cafe .......................... 24558530 Muscat City Centre Beach Pavilion Restaurant and Bar Al Bustan Palace ......................... 24764000 Love At First Bite ......................... 24601737 Shatti Al Qurum The Serai Pool Cabana ............... 24524400 The Chedi Muscat B+F Roadside Diner................... 24698836 Bareeq Al Shatti Musandam Café.......................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat The Restaurant ............................ 24524400 The Chedi Muscat Blue Marlin ................................. 24737940 Marina bander Al Rowdha Musandam Restaurant ................ 26730267 Khasab Hotel The Coffee Shop ......................... 24704244 Ruwi Hotel BreadTalk.................................... 24603033 Bareeq Al Shatti Nando’s ....................................... .... 24561818 Opp CCC Muscat City Centre Tinello......................................... 24502570 The Treasurebox Hotel Assira Pool Bar............................ 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Bait Al Bahar ............................... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Bread and Co.............................. 24698379 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al-Qurum Buffet Restaurant ......................... 24697967 Bareeq Al Shatti Chilli’s Muscat City Center .................... 24558815 Qurum City Center .................... 24470700 Circles ........................................ 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Class Room ................................. 24813141 National Hospitality Institute, Wadi Kabir Coral Reef Cafe .......................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Coffee Shop ................................ 24702311 Al Falaj Hotel Four Seasons ............................... 24707207 Haffa House Hotel Golden Spoon Al Khuwair .................................. 24482263 Seeb Souq................................... 24424204 78 iFoods ......................................... 24121114 18 November St, near Sultan Centre, Azaiba Hamburger Nation ...................... 24558077 Muscat City Centre Neptune Bar................................ .... 24795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Nouras Al Shatti .......................... .... 24603555 Ramada Beach Hotel Odyssey ...................................... .... 24824240 Oman Dive Centre, Bandar Jissa sa Olivos.......................................... .... 24487777 Radisson Blu Retro ........................................... .... 24571339 Shatti AL Qurum RBG Grill .................................... .... 24507888 Park Inn Muscat Samba ......................................... .... 24776666 Al Waha Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr rr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Slider Station .............................. .... 24698990 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al Qurum rum Stomach ...................................... .... 24692486 Jawaharat A’Shatti Complex Sultanah ...................................... .... 24776666 Al Husn Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr rr Al Jissah Resort and Spa Trader Vic’s................................. 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Tropicana.................................... 24660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel Muscat Long Bar and Xyro ...................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Nirvana ......................24781901/ 97015530 CBD Mediterranean O'Malleys .................................... 24487777 Radisson Blu Bellapais .................................... 24521100 Risail Complex Periwinkle’s Pub ......................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Mediterranean Grill ................. 246803000 InterContinental Muscat Piano Lounge .............................. 26776666 Al Bander Hotel, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Pubs & Lounge Al Ghazal .................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Al Jizzi Lounge ............................ 26841111 Sohar Beach Hotel Al Marrah Pub ............................ 24424404 Al Bahjah Hotel Barrio Fiesta ............................... 24592900 Majan Hotel Churchill’s Pub............................ 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn Mexican Pavo Real .................................... 24602603 MQ Senor Pico................................... 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Sports Bar ................................... 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn The Hut ....................................... 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort The Lazy Lizard ........................... 24487777 Radisson Blu Club Safari.................................. 24602327 Grand Hyatt Muscat Copacabana ............................... 24641234 Grand Hyatt Muscat Steak & Grill Feeney’s Irish Pub....................... 99262821 Al Qurum Resort Grill House ................................. 24603660 Grand Hyatt Habana Cafe ............................... 24602327 Grand Hyatt Muscat Just Grilled.................................. 24601290 Oasis By The Sea, Shatti Al Qurum John Barry Bar............................. 24641234 Grand Hyatt Kobe’s Sizzlers .........24563220 / 24564092 GBM Building, Qurum Layalina Bar ................................ 24487123 Muscat Holiday Inn The Safari Rooftop Grill .............24641234, .................................................. 24641114 Grand Hyatt Muscat Pub......................................... 24702311 Le Pub.............. Al Falaj Hotel 10 The Wahiba ................................. 26795545 Al Sawadi Beach Resort Club Bar ..................................... 24704244 Ruwi Hotel Duke’s Bar ................................... 24660660 Crowne Plaza Is your enterprise missing in our lists? Sama Terazza ............................. 24507888 Park Inn Muscat SEARCHING Tomato ........................................ 24680000 InterContinental Muscat Rock Bottom Cafe’ ...................... 24564443 Ramee Guestline Hotel A list of restaurant and eateries, to match your tastes Please mail u us the details editor@faces [email protected] or call us on: + 9968 24563382/24563385 Entry! For a Quick E May 2014 Tapas & Sablah ........................... 24776666 Al Bandar Hotel, Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa 79 Revel in the glow of a thousand sparkles... VS quality diamonds and sapphires set in 18k white gold. Matching necklace and ring available. 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