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EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to Y Magazine –

your indispensable guide to everything modern Oman has

to offer.

EDITOR IN CHIEFSayyida Iman bint Hamad

bin Hamood Al Busaidi

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Eihab Abutaha

MANAGING EDITORFelicity Glover

DEPUTY EDITORKate Ginn

ART DIRECTOR Matthew Herbst

PHOTOGRAPHER Jerzy Wierzbicki

INTERNS Deeba Hasan

Siddarth SeshanEsmee Brunton

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Feroz Khan

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

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Ways to get your Y fix

fast forwardIt’s not often you get to hold a piece of history in your hands, even rarer when the item

is 730 million years old. One of the best things about working at Y Magazine is that we get to experience many of the wonderful things that Oman has to offer.

From exploring the beautiful scenery of the Sultanate, to meeting incredible people with their own stories to reveal, Team Y is in a unique position to bring it all to life.

Take, for instance, Y’s photographer Jerzy Wierzbicki, who had the honour recently of holding in his hands a piece of the country’s geological history: a rock that is believed to be one of the oldest on the planet.

For our cover story this week, Jerzy travelled to the Al Huqf region, described as a geologist’s paradise and a place that holds great importance not just in Oman, but also worldwide, to find these amazing rocks.

You will also notice that we’ve kicked off a new feature this week: Coffee With Deeba. Y believes that everyone has something extraordinary to tell – and that is exactly what we are aiming to do with this column. We hope you enjoy it!

Meanwhile, we will be giving away four iPad mini 2s over the next four weeks courtesy of Lincoln Oman, Ford’s luxury car brand. As you can see, Team Y has been busy over the long Renaissance Day/Eid break and even though we are back at work, there’s still the weekend to look forward to. Enjoy!

editor@y-oman.com

Team Y has been getting back into swing of things after the 10-day

Renaissance Day/Eid break. We are preparing for a new member of staff, as well as welcoming old faces back

into the fold.

THIS WEEK…

ThE BAROMETER

Congratulations to all our winners this week. To see the full list, including the winner of the Huawei Ascend Y511 smartphone for our cute kids photo competition, go to P14-15.

GoinG UPTHE UNACCEPTAbLE DEATH

TOLL IN GAzA Nearly 1,800 Palestinians, mostly

civilians, have been killed since the Israeli offensive began on July 8, while

more than 8,000 have been injured.

GoinG doWnbRIGHT LIGHTS

Driving at night with your lights switched to high beam. Really, is it

necessary for city driving?

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Yo u r O m a n06 Coffee With deeba Shorooq Abu Nasser

08 voice of oman Al Sayyida Mayya Al Said

10 news Where Are The Parents?

14 top tots Cute Kids Competition

Fo o d a n d D r i n k28 Food Feature Fact or Fallacy?

30 Food Review Annab

T h i s w e e k16 oman in 43 objects 4x4 Car

17 movie listings Boyhood

18 Week in Pics Headlining Stories From Oman And Beyond

19 this Week Drop Of Life

C a r s a n d A d v e n t u r e s38 destination Bimmah Sinkhole

40 outdoors Dune Bashing

42 Postcard From Jordan

44 Y-Fi Licence To Grill

46 Car of the Week Mustang GT

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Fe at u r e20 Rock of Ages 730 Million Years Old

24 safe surfing Cyber Kids

26 lincoln Competition Drive Away With An iPad mini 2

h e a l t h a n d B e a u t y32 Fashion Boho Babes

34 Health Take It Slow

35 style Counsel Barbra Young

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NOWBREWINGTHE WAVE, MUSCAT (THE WALK)

Qurum (Fun Zone) I Muscat Grand Mall I The Wave, Muscat (The Walk)

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As I sat waiting for Shorooq, I thought back to the last time we met. It was in 2009 at the Muscat Youth Summit, when she was an idealistic young woman with ambition in her eyes and hope in her heart. I wondered whether she – and her dreams – had changed in the intervening five years. If anything, I found her determination to bring about change had strengthened.We met at PappaRoti in Muscat Grand Mall. Shorooq asked for ginger tea with milk, while I ordered a cappuccino and the café’s famous cheese bun. We settled down to talk and, over the next two hours, I got an insight into what drives her.You may have heard of the I-Care initiative, a project that distributes water to construction workers toiling away under the sun in Oman. What you might not know is that a 25 year old woman is the person behind the scheme. Calm and softly spoken, she has charisma and a wonderful smile that lights up her face. As I soon discovered, there was far more to her story.

A Palestinian, she was born in Kuwait and has three younger sisters and a brother. She holds a Jordanian passport and has been living in Oman for the past 20 years. Because she has been here for so long, she calls Oman home and describes it as a place very close to her heart. Over the noise of the coffee machine, screaming children and chattering around us, she told me about her life. After attending the Egyptian School in Al Khuwair, she graduated in finance and management from the Modern College of Business and Sciences in Muscat. Her creative side and a passion for drawing and painting led her to start a t-shirt business, creating custom designs for clients. She now works as the human resources and finance manager at her father’s IT company.

In a new series, Deeba Hasan meets a different person each week

to find out what makes them so unique. Y believes that everyone,

no matter how ordinary, has something extraordinary to tell. This

week, Deeba has coffee with Shorooq Abu Nasser“My father is a strict boss and he has made me what I am today – a professional,” says Shorooq.Her quest to help labourers began three years ago and was inspired by seeing a few construction workers lying under trees, covering their faces and hiding from the sun during their break.

“I was driving from my home to college,” Shorooq, who is unmarried, recalls. “I remember it was extremely hot for me to even drive that day. I spotted, in one corner, a few construction workers lying down – they were probably waiting for their transport to arrive. “That moment hit me and I felt like I wanted to do something for these people who toiled hard to build our homes. I immediately went inside and brought some cold water for them.”That was just the beginning. Spurred into action, Shorooq recruited family and close friends to help with water distribution events. That was in May 2011. “We have come a long way from distributing only water to construction workers,” she says. “We now give away packages consisting of phone credit, water, snacks and a t-shirt.”

“The support we have from the community for this cause is just amazing. I had no idea that I would receive so much support from companies, media organisations, schools and just individual people – they have all been so encouraging.”One mystery benefactor stepped forward to help set up the I-Care website. They designed the site and even bought a domain for it. “I got a whole website up and running without having to do much. It was a lovely gesture from this person,” says Shorooq.Her team of volunteers, who have stood by her against all odds, also earn deep praise.“I wouldn’t have gone very far without their support,” she says.

Pulling the community together has resulted in volunteers from the age of six to people in their 70s doing their bit. I-Care recently held its 12th water distribution event, with one also hosted in Salalah in response to public demand to extend the initiative beyond Muscat.Next up is providing solar hats to workers and extending the campaign outside of Muscat. In the meantime, Shorooq had been hoping to visit Palestine, as part of a youth programme through the Palestinian Embassy, to see her homeland for the first time. The project allows Palestinian youths from different nations to visit their native country. With Gaza under siege, the scheme has been cancelled this year and shattered Sharooq’s hopes. With extended family in Nablus, a city in the northern West Bank, she had prepared herself for what would have been an emotional trip. Shorooq’s steely determination to succeed remains, but what drives her is the reaction from the workers she helps.“There is a construction site in Azaiba, where there is no mosque or houses where the workers can get water,” she says. “We went there, gave them the packages and they looked at us with an expression as if we were angels who had descended from the heavens. “One of the workers said that he would pray for me — hearing that from him was so beautiful.”

Quick Questions:What is your favourite…?Food: seafoodAuthor/Book: 1984, to kill a Mockingbird, the kite Runner, Freakonomics, Les Miserables, the Book thief

Movie/Actor: Horror movies /Johnny Depp Fashion brand: i don’t usually keep up with fashion and trends. Role model: My parents.

To help the I-Care cause or to volunteer, visit www.icareoman.org, visit the I-Care Initiative Facebook page or email icareoman@gmail.com Have you got a unique story to tell or do you know someone who has? Contact us to have coffee with Deeba and be featured in Y Magazine. Email: editor@y-oman.com

shorooq Abu nasser

Baddel YTabloid 24x34 E.indd 1 08/07/2014 09:24

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Be RoAd AWARe, Be sAFe

correspondencethe voice of oman Al sayyida mayya Al said on turning lemons into lemonade

NExt WEEK: ALI AL BALUSHI IS BACK

Hi Y,

During the Eid holidays, people are rejoicing. But every year the number of accidents during the holiday increases. Think about the number of people killed during these times. Can this be avoided? It’s something the Royal Oman Police should look at. A victim could be an innocent traveller who gets hit by an offensive driver. Travelling during holidays is not always safe and we should be doing all we can to protect human life.

Wishes,Dr Vijayalakshmi R Shetty, Muscat

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If you had a choice to be happy or sad, what would you choose? I am guessing the majority would choose to

be happy because I can’t imagine anyone wanting to be sad. Yet many people don’t know how to be happy, simply because they always tend to look at what they don’t have instead of appreciating what they do have.

Every day, I choose happiness and I set my barometer to being positive. In life, we are faced with many situations (too many, in fact) that can alter our moods. I have decided that I will not let these situations affect me in any way, especially if it is something that I have no control over.

We all know the saying “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. In other words, make the best of whatever you have. Instead of focusing on the fact that you don’t like lemons or why you were given lemons, why not trying looking at it from a different angle, a positive one perhaps?

One of the first things you can do to feel and be positive is to appreciate what you have and see the good in every situation. I know, easier said than done, right? Don’t get me wrong; it is hard work to train the mind to make the best of every situation. but if that means changing the way I see things and I end up being happier as a result, then I say bring on the lemons!

We asked: “a two-minute warning sounds before earth is destroyed by an alien attack. What would you do with your last two minutes?”

MoHD ALI   I would update my status on Facebook.

CAtHErINE BAKEr   I would hug as many people as I could to give us some positive thoughts before the end.

JoSEpHINE DC I’d try not to panic, remain calm and handle the situation tactfully to give confidence, hope and courage to the people around me. I’d also try to

deBAte oF tHe Week

find a solution.

FArEIA KHAN I would pray to God to forgive our sins and I would ask a favour – to save our Earth.

MELroy DIAS I’d go to sleep.

AHMED AL-BADAI I will do my best to defend my world, my country, my scholars, my leaders, all creatures. How will I defend? I will defend spiritually, mentally, physically and chemically.

tAzIM ALI   I’d change my TV channel.

NAtHAN GoDDArD I would fight until I died.

JoEL CrUz pALAD I would sit on my couch, drink my favourite black coffee and listen to a Westlife album.

HASSAN SArWAr I’d take a selfie.

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

New debate:“With all of the tragedies

going on in the world, is it possible to still find

happiness?”Tell us on Facebook or Twitter

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

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AArtI VAtS I would try to make my dear ones laugh so that they can forget the upcoming agony.

DAWooD ASGHAr ALI I would make a spaceship to fight the aliens and kill them so that they could never come back to our Earth.

GEorGINA BILLEH SHAHIN I would hug my husband and tell him how much I loved him.

VENGAtESH SrINIVASAN I’d rush up to my office, open last week’s Y, take a selfie and send it to the magazine. I’d tag it, “My last two-minute thrill with Y mag selfie”, and if someone was alive at Y, they could post my pic of the week in the magazine.

KrISHNA SANAL Ask Richard Branson to buy another planet and take me with him.

UMAIS ArIF Eat pizza, French fries and chocolate ice cream while listening to Justin Bieber.

KHUSHBoo UDESHI I would not give up my life easily. I’d plan a way to fight back against the aliens and if I died, at least I’d do so knowing that I fought bravely.

FAISAL CHUGHtAI I would hold hands with my mum, dad, wife and children, and tell them that they were loved.

AzrA ALEEM Until my last breath, I’d send peace messages to the alien chief to try to stop the attack on humans.

MAHIrA SAqIB I would kiss my children on the forehead and spend the two minutes hugging them tight.

ANtHoNy CArLtoN I would do a victory dance because I’ve been waiting millions of years for my fellow aliens to invade this awful planet.

AL rIyAMI I would remember all that I had wanted to happen in my life, like looking at a short film.

EDWArD tJ ACENA I’d check Twitter to see if it was a hoax.

SANA SHAHID AtIF I would like to wake up and find it was a nightmare.

SAM AL-MAIMANI I’d ask Tom Cruise how to get rid of them.

AIMAN HoSSAIN I’d dress up as Batman and run.

MADHUrI SENtHIL MUrUGAN I would hold my husband and kid, hug, kiss them and tell them I love them very much. And keep praising God until the very end.

roNNEIL SALES VALIENtE I would spend my last two minutes on Earth together with my loved ones and pray fervently to God to save the Earth from the alien attack because I strongly believe that a family who prays together, stays together – and praying together is the most powerful weapon against any harm or danger.

JoSHIKA NIKHIL pANIA In my last two minutes of life, I would want to be near my mum.

SAMIr SHArMA I would go to the city and try to save people. One human being saved is equal to thousands of prayers, so why waste the last the two minutes of your life by praying when you can at least save others?

DHArA pArEKH I’d go to the highest place because I would like to see how the world would end in two minutes and if there was any hero who could save us. I’d wait until the last second to see if my hero comes or if it was the end of life and the world.

J U L 24 - 3 0 / I S S U E 3 3 00 1 0

N E W SYOUR OMAN

SAUDI MAN TESTED FOR DEADLY EBOLA VIRUS

Their innocent little faces gaze at the camera and melt the heart. Which makes it even more unbelievable that

someone has apparently abandoned the two boys in a park.

The Omani toddlers, aged just two and one, were found in Qurum Natural Park on Saturday night, during the Eid holidays.

Despite a nationwide appeal – including a huge social media campaign – for the parents or relatives to come forward, no one had been traced at the time Y went to press.

“So far, we have not received any phone call or inquiry,” said an official from the Royal Oman

Police (ROP). “We are trying our best to locate the toddlers’ parents.”

Dressed in identical outfits, the boys were discovered wandering around the park. Police trawled the area looking for parents or clues, but with no luck.

No missing child reports have been filed either.The boys, believed to be siblings, although this

has not been confirmed, are being looked after at a Child Care Centre run by the ROP in Al Khoud.

WHere Are THe PAreNTS? KIDS LeFT IN PArK

A Saudi man is feared to have contracted the deadly Ebola virus after a recent business trip to Sierra Leone, according to media reports.

The man, in his 40s, is under observation after being tested for the virus and is in a hospital in Jeddah, the Saudi Health Ministry said.

More than 700 people have died of Ebola in the West African countries of Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea in what world health officials are calling the worst-ever breakout of the disease.

Meanwhile, Oman’s health authorities have announced an Ebola awareness campaign aimed at frontline healthcare workers in the Sultanate.

While officials said the chance of the disease reaching Oman was remote, they added that the awareness campaign was precautionary and in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

“This circular is intended to disseminate general information on Ebola along with WHO-prescribed guidelines on reporting and handling any suspect cases,” an official told a local newspaper.

“For example, if one comes across a case of haemorrhaging, the healthcare practitioner will need to go into the patient’s history and determine if he or she had a recent history of travel to the Ebola-affected parts of West Africa. Other infection control procedures will be outlined as well.”

Ebola symptoms include high fever, bleeding and central nervous system damage. There is no vaccine or cure for the virus, which has a fatality rate of 90 per cent, while the incubation period is two to 21 days.

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After weeks of shelling and attacks, the people of Gaza are in need of help more than ever despite the recent respite.

The nation of Oman has responded to their plight with donations of money to fund the relief effort for those caught up in the war.

More than RO116,000 has been given by the Sultanate’s residents so far and the figure is rising by the minute. Another RO7,000 has been donated for other Palestinian causes, such as caring for orphans.

Some personal donations have been close to RO1,000. Others have given what they can, from RO5 upwards.

Money raised will be used to send vital supplies of food and medicine to the thousands devastated by the bombing in the Gaza strip. The death toll is nearing

OMAN’S GAZA reSPONSe

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QATAr PLANe BOMB HOAX

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Al Ghubrah, Al Marafah Street, Mirbat Tower 1, Muscat, Oman

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Investigations are continuing after a Qatar Airways flight from Doha landed safely in Manchester following reports of a suspect device, which saw it given a jetfighter escort into the airport.

A passenger was later arrested on suspicion of making a hoax bomb threat. Photographs emerged of armed police removing a handcuffed male passenger from the plane.

The incident closed the airport in the north of England for almost half an hour.Flight QR23 had taken off from Doha on Tuesday headed towards Manchester

with 269 passengers and 13 crew on board. After the pilot alerted authorities about a possible suspect device, Britain scrambled two fighter jets to escort the Airbus A330-300 aircraft onto the Manchester runway. It landed at 1.15pm UK time.

Some reports claimed that passengers on board only found out about the bomb threat on Twitter while still on the plane as it stood on the runway after landing.

One traveller later released an astonishing photograph apparently taken from a window seat inside the plane showing one of the jets flying alongside the wing.

A statement from Qatar Airways said: “The crew had received a threat about a possible device on board and Qatar Airways immediately took all the necessary precautions to alert British authorities.

“The crew is now fully assisting police at the airport with their inquiries. The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew is our top priority. As this is a matter of a police investigation, we cannot comment further at this time.”

2,000, with 354 children killed by the airstrikes.This week, a second batch of relief aid from Oman was delivered to

Gaza. More than 60 tonnes of aid, including food packets, water, bed sheets, blankets and pillows, were handed over to victims.

The first consignment arrived on July 26.Online donations have been pouring in over the past few weeks,

according to the Oman Charitable Organisation (OCO), which is leading the fundraising.

More than 3,000 people have used e.oman’s portal to pledge their support.

A separate HelpGAZA2014 Instagram page has also been set up. As part of this, an Instagram auction has seen designer handbags and sunglasses, and photographs by renowned Omani artists sold off to raise money.

• Want to help?www.donate.om, www.instagram.com/helpgaza2014 and www.instagram/helpgaza2014

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You mean pipes that carry water right?No, silly, not those sorts of pipes. We are talking about the musical variety.Eh? Bagpipes. An instrument which features reeds, a bag and, of course, a pipe.Sounds a bit weird to me.Well, bagpipes have been around for ages, possibly as far back as Roman times. We do know that bagpipes have been played for centuries throughout large parts of Europe, around the Arabian Gulf and in Northern Africa.A sculpture of bagpipes found in the Middle East was dated back to 1000BC. What is it exactly? Simply put, it’s a pipe attached to a bag. The bag is traditionally made of the skins of local animals such as goats, sheep and cows. Modern versions tend to use synthetic materials including Gore-Tex. Right. So, how does it work?The player blows into the pipe to inflate the bag, which is airtight to allow a continuous sound to be maintained. The bag can also be inflated by pumping air using the player’s elbow. Sounds like a load of hot air! Exactly. But it makes sweet music – not to everyone’s ears, admittedly. Played badly, bagpipes can resemble the sound of a cat after someone has stood on its tail.Come to think of it, I do remember something about a bag of pipes from Scotland.That’ll be the ones. The Scottish Great Highland bagpipe (along with the Irish version) is well known worldwide. This was, in part, thanks to Highland regiments of the British military forces who spread the music, so to speak. Where else? Well, there are bagpipers in all sorts of unexpected places from Uganda (remember the last King of Scotland, Idi Amin, who was obsessed with all things Scottish and loved the bagpipes?) to Hong Kong and Sri Lanka to Oman.Oman? Yep. Which brings us to the point of all this. The Royal Airforce of Oman Pipe Band is travelling to Glasgow to compete in the World Pipe Band Championships and a festival, which runs from August 11 to 17. There will be among 8,000 performers from 150 countries worldwide. Our RAF boys have a pipe band? And girls. The bandwas formed back in 1982, starting with 50 young Omanis who had no idea what a bagpipe was. There are now 350 members, including a new female band.Anything else? Nope, I’m off to clean my bagpipes.Don’t say: Shut up, you old windbag.Do say: Pipe up!

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

LOOK AT A NEWS ISSUE Of THE WEEK.

PIPES

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

It should have been far out to sea with his mother and family chasing fish. Somehow, however, the killer whale found itself washed ashore at a beach in the

Dhofar Governorate facing a bleak outlook.Luckily for this Orca calf, a rescue team swung

into action and helped the stranded mammal back into open water.

It took some time to free the stricken creature, which came ashore at Ras Noos beach, with wildlife workers wading into the shallow water to keep the animal hydrated and as calm as possible.

Experts believe that the wwhale, which can be found in oceans all around the world, was chasing prey when it became beached as it dived to catch a fish, possibly a tuna.

“The killer whale was probably chasing a tuna that ambled close to the beach but the whale’s momentum got the better of it,” said Dr Hamad al Ghailani, community outreach manager at the Environment Society of Oman (ESO).

Because it was young, the calf was unable to free itself from the sand and would have died were it not for the marine rescue squad.

“Orcas or killer whales are known for their beach hunting,” said Dr al Ghailani. “However, only adult Orcas are capable of doing this as they home in on their prey, and then wriggle back into the sea.”

Oman is home to more than 20 species of whales and dolphins.

It’s not the first time that marine mammals have come a cropper in Oman’s seas. In January this year, a dolphin was spotted struggling in shallow waters off Shatti shoreline. A rescue effort was launched and the creature eventually made it out into deeper waters. Last year, six false killer whales – known in Oman as Fujma – were rescued from Al Sawadi beach, around 85 kilometres from Muscat.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs has set up a working group to study the causes of mass mortality of the mammals in cooperation with the Royal Navy. The working group is tasked with drafting a contingency plan to deal with the deaths of marine mammals and set up a database to record any incidents, along with an annual report.

GREAT WhALE

RESCUE

The traditional time of giving may be over, but it doesn’t mean your generosity has to stop. You can help a sick

child in hospital in Oman thanks to a charitable initiative to spread smiles across their faces.

In a campaign titled “1 pack = 1 smile”, Duracell and Hasbro are calling for your help to raise money – and a little happiness in the process.

For every product purchased, money will be donated for toys for children being treated at Starcare Hospitals in the Sultanate. The campaign ends on August 30, so there’s still plenty of time to take part.

Duracell has already partnered with the Red Crescent and America’s multinational toy brand, Hasbro, in the UAE for an identical campaign. A similar scheme called “Power a Smile” was successfully held in the United States, where popular

TV host Ellen DeGeneres supported it by raising funds on her show.

Now it’s Oman’s turn. “We are delighted to be

partnering with Duracell through this initiative, whereby a small act of kindness, such as giving a toy, goes a long way in spreading smiles across families in the country,” said Dr Askar Kukkadi, chief executive of Starcare. “With the support of Duracell’s customers, we hope to be able to make children in Oman enjoy their time even more through this distribution of toys.”

Lea Jarrar, brand operations manager for Duracell Arabian Peninsula, added: “Our collaboration with Hasbro will allow consumers to touch the lives of children and spread joy across the region.”

To take part, simply buy a pack of Duracell TurboMax batteries. You will find displays at all major hypermarkets and supermarkets across Oman.

For more information, visit /DuracellArabia

MAKE A ChILD SMILE

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It isn’t quite as ostentatious as the real thing and the surroundings are not as salubrious, but it still cuts a rather grand design.

Which is the problem. The sight of this miniature replica of Dubai’s famous Burj Al Arab has not gone down well with the hotel’s owners.

In fact, the company is now reportedly looking at taking possible legal action against the homeowner in India.

Poking up over a wall, the blue and white mini burj, said to be located in Punjab in northwest India, can be seen soaring up into the sky kilometres away. Images of the farmhouse, an exact scaled-down version of the opulent Dubai landmark, have been circulating on social media sites for several weeks.

As replica’s go, it’s a bad attempt. Except for one thing: the proud owner didn’t get permission from the luxury hotelier beforehand. Jumeirah Group owns the copyright to the design.

The group’s legal department has, apparently, been made aware of the little Indian imposter.

Approaches have been made in the past, specifically from developers in Las Vegas, for approval to construct replicas of the seven-star splendour but so far, the Burj Al Arab remains unique.

Except, that is, for the Burj Al India.

MINI-Me BUrJ

The Real McCoy❂ The original Burj Al Arab opened in 1999 on a manmade island off the coast of Dubai. It stands 280 metres tall. The shape of the structure is designed to mimic the sail of a ship. Dubbed “the world’s only seven-star hotel”, it is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge.❂ Construction costs are said to have been around $650 million (RO250m).❂ The hotel’s 28 storeys have 202 bedroom suites. A night in The Royal Suite will set you back around $18,716 (RO7,200).❂ A helipad 210m above ground has been used for various stunts, including golfers Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy teeing off, Andre Agassi and Roger Federer playing tennis and F1 star David Coulthard performing donuts.

N E W S

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Top TotsTeam Y was inundated with more than 500

entries for our cute kid photo competition to win a Huawei Ascend Y511 smartphone

Our judge, Y Managing Editor Felicity Glover, was faced with a tough choice after ploughing through the entries and, unfortunately, there can only be one winner.

Congratulations to ovais Ausaf, who submitted a gorgeous picture of his friend Ali’s baby sister, Taha. Her beautiful eyes and infectious smile melted Felicity’s heart. because there were so many entries for the competition, we decided just before going to press to award two runners- up prizes of RO20 gift cards from Toys R Us.

Congratulations to Sherrin Finoj for the lovely photo of her son, Muhammed Ayaan, and to Andrew Aludino, for the photograph of his friend’s niece with her cute ponytails – hopefully you will treat her to the Toys R Us surprise!

Winner

Runner-up

Runner-up

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BEST Of THE RESTHere’s a selection of the entries Y received that didn’t win, but still impressed our judge. Is your photo here?

Winners from our July 24 issueCongratulations to the

following winners!CAKe GAllery:

ofelia lopez al naamani, who knew that the cupcake was

invented in the united states.

Dr BroWn’s GifT seT: Jeraldine resulta, Daphne Dmello, Tony Berida, Prem

Colaco, Cristina Buniag Angel, all of whom correctly answered

that the heaviest newborn in modern times (post 1900s)

weighed in at 10.2kg, born in Aversa, italy, in september 1955.

GrAnD HyATT musCAT: merina Joseph

W I N N E R S B • O • x

OMAN IN 43 ObJECTS

4x4 CAR34.

Love them or loathe them, there’s no doubt that big cars are a huge part of the Omani culture. Whether they’re thundering down the highway or bashing over dunes, SUVs and 4x4s are a common sight on and off-road in the Sultanate. They’re the undoubted urban kings of the car world; shopping mall car parks are full of them, school runs are clogged with them and families fill them. They’re the vehicle of choice for yummy mummies and desert explorers.

Little wonder, though. These tough automotive beasts are the prefect way to explore the rugged terrain of Oman’s spectacular landscape. Y’s photographer, Jerzy Wierzbicki, is never far from his trusty Land Cruiser, which has taken him all over the country and across the vast Empty Quarter.

Gas-guzzlers they may be, but the population of Oman couldn’t do without their 4x4s.

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DIpLoMAtIE This French movie, Diplomacy in English, is a compelling historical drama set in occupied Paris at the end of the Second World War. On the night of August 24, 1944, Hitler's commander in Paris, General Von Choltitz (Niels Arestrup) has orders to blow up Paris's famed landmarks. It falls to Swedish consul-general Raoul Nordling (Andre Dussollier) to try to convince him to spare the city and its people. The actors brought the roles to life for a hit play and, in their reasoned and occasionally heated debate, the screen adaptation is a triumph of great acting.

Y's Choice

A Long Way Down

What are the odds that four people would decide to commit suicide by jumping off the same building on New Year's Eve? That's the premise of this comedy, based on a novel by Nick Hornby. The four are TV executive

Boyhood

MOVIES MOVIESPierce Brosnan, Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul as a depressive American, politician's daughter Imogen Poots, and unhappy mum Toni Collette. When they meet on the roof, they form a pact to help each other, in the process creating a media frenzy and going on a life-affirming holiday to Spain. It may send you over the edge.

Earth to Echo

Tuck (Brian ̒Astro’Bradley), Alex (Teo Halm) and Munch (Reese Hartwig) receive signals on their mobile phones that lead them to a place in the desert. There they find Echo, a little alien robot who needs the children's help to reassemble the key to his stranded space ship. Echo has the makings of being an E.T. for a new generation, but the alien isn’t likeable enough and the story isn’t compelling enough to make this a classic of its time.

lUCY From Nikita to The Fifth Element and Joan of Arc, Luc Besson has made a name for himself as a director of Indie action and sci-fi blockbusters that star a beautiful, butt-kicking heroine. Here, he directs Scarlett Johansson as Lucy, who is duped into having a bag containing a revolutionary drug placed in her stomach during a trip to Taiwan.

By the time she arrives at her destination, the bag has leaked the drug into her blood — and so begins

her gradual transformation into a super being with unlimited mental powers. Morgan Freeman plays the scientist who developed the drug that

allows Lucy to control matter and time itself. Implausible, yes, but also mind boggling – in a good way.

This may initially appear to be a small, quiet movie about a boy growing up in Texas, but it also achieves something unique in film history. Director Richard Linklater cast six-year-old Ellar Coltrane as Mason, the son of divorced parents Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette, and filmed the screen family over 12 years.Linklater has experimented with this time-lapse technique before – in his three Before movies, which revisited the relationship between the characters played by Hawke and Julie Delpy over nine-year intervals – but Boyhood goes one step further, as we see this happening in a single film. The characters physically change from scene to scene, with Mason starting out as a shy boy who gradually grows into an adult – we witness his limbs lengthening, his voice breaking and his facial hair sprouting. Likewise, his young screen parents and older sister (played by Linklater's daughter, Lorelei) subtly age before our eyes. His mother

studies psychology and falls in and out of love, while his slightly absent dad takes Mason through the childhood rites of passage – a baseball game, a camping trip and a midnight Harry Potter party.The amazing thing is that nothing hugely dramatic happens, yet the very passage of time is deeply moving as we witness little but key moments in life, from arguments to first dates, only for them to recede quickly into the past. Thanks to a brilliant script and ensemble cast, we become totally immersed in the lives of all the characters – the astoundingly good Coltrane only moves centre stage towards the end as watch him become a man with his life in front of him. Boyhood captures something universally human by allowing us to experience the unfolding lives of its characters and, in the process, see our own lives reflected in them. Even at three hours long, it passes as quickly as life itself.

Review by Joe Gill

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IEW

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

Israel pulled its ground forces out of Gaza this week, beginning what is hoped will be a 72-hour truce with Hamas that was brokered by Egypt.

HEADLINING STORIES FROM OMAN AND BEYOND

A female TV newsreader has created huge controversy in Saudi Arabia after reading the news on air without a veil, prompting officials to state that she was actually in a studio in Britain.

Donations are pouring in to help Gammy, the abandoned surrogate baby who was born with Down’s syndrome in Thailand, after he captured the hearts of millions around the world.

The death toll from the Bangladesh ferry disaster continues to climb, with nearly 120 people now feared drowned in the disaster.

G A L L E R Y

Thirty babies gathered in New York City this week for the sixth annual Diaper Derby that saw one-year-old Liam Herald take line honours despite some bubs being baited to the line with an array of toys and iPads.

As the world commemorated 100 years since the start of World War I, a candle-lit vigil was held at Westminster Abbey in London, while scores of businesses, households and public buildings turned out their lights for an hour.

Oman became the first country in the world to introduce a new state-of-the-art air traffic monitoring system that will be used at both Muscat and Salalah airports.

Rescue workers struggle to reach victims of a 6.1 earthquake that hit Yunan province, in south-west China, this week. More than 350 people were killed and 1,300 injured in the deadly quake.

More than two weeks after the Malaysia Airlines passenger jet was shot down over eastern Ukraine, killing all on board, frustrated investigators say worsening clashes between separatists and government forces are preventing them from having proper access to the site.

McDonald’s Japan has taken chicken nuggets off the menu after yet another tainted meat scandal in China and replaced them with “Tofu Shino” nuggets. The jury’s still out on the taste.

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SANDY TRAVELS Dreaming of getting away from it all? As the temperature starts to dip, it’s time to dust off your desert boots and get ready for your next trip into the great outdoors. Guide Oman, an adventure company, is counting down the days to its trip across the Sharqiyah sands. Book your place now to take part in the fun. Contact rmayston@theguideoman.com, or call 9803 8820 or 9228 5813.

Escape the heat and see one of nature’s wonders as the Khareef season continues. Dhofar turns into a lush, verdant oasis, offering visitors a unique experience like no other in Oman. There’s still time to see it for yourself before the weather changes. Check out www.dhofartourism.gov.om or call Traveller Oasis on 2338 3333.

THIS WEEK

WHAT TO DO.

WHAT TO SEE.

WHAT TO HEAR.

DROP Of LIfEKeen to make a difference in the community? Pencil this in your diary. Art of Living, Oman, is organising a Blood Donation at Hatat Polyclinic, Hatat House – B, Wadi Adai R/A, between 9am and 12.30pm. Supported by the Central Blood Bank, as many donors as possible are needed. Your blood could help to save the life of people close to you, restore the smile of a young child or prevent many families from being devastated. Go along and take your friends. Contact: Sangita 9606 3261, aoloman@gmail.com

05SEPT

dHOFaR dReaMs

If you want your children to learn about one of the most influential painters of the 20th century, sign them up for the Painting Like Matisse: Portraits workshop being held by MuscArt. Touching on the history of Impressionism and the life and style of Henri Matisse, youngsters will be encouraged to put theory into practice by painting a self-portrait. Hosted by Heather Ford, an art co-ordinator, in Ghubrah, the workshop costs RO85 and all materials are included. Each workshop runs from 10am to 12.30pm. For details, email inquire@muscart.net or call 2449 3912. www.muscart.netM

ASTE

R C

LASS

SEPTUNTIL

A U G U S T

NOWBOOK

AU

G10

14-

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Holding an object believed to be more than 730 million years old is quite something. The rock was heavy and its jagged edges, worn away by weather and age, dug into my palm as I examined the dark dense lump, which was speckled with a blood-red colour.

I was holding a piece of geological history. It was incredible to think how old this stone was and difficult to comprehend the importance it held, not just in Oman but worldwide.

Similar rocks were scattered around my feet during a visit to Al Huqf region. Dated by experts in the Sultanate, they help to piece together how Earth once looked and how the landscape we know today was formed.

In that respect, Al Huqf is a geologist’s paradise. The area in which I found these small boulders – known as Al Jobah Basement – is one of the greatest places for rock and history hunters. Here, in the southern Dakhiliyah Governorate, the flat desert is dotted with dozens of small, shaped rocks.

AGESROCK OF

Oman has some the most beautiful scenery in the world, but did you know that some of the oldest rocks on the planet can be found amid its landscape? Jerzy Wierzbicki sought them out

They do not look spectacular, mere granite to an amateur’s eye. To an expert, not only are they unique and hold the key to the past, but such formations are very rarely found on the surface – it usually takes deep excavation to uncover these geological gems.

Oman holds a special significance for geologists as it is the only country in the world composed mostly of oceanic crust and rocks that originated deep below Earth’s surface.

Using mineral isotopes – chemical elements – these weathered granite tors, shaped into grotesque forms by wind and rain, have been dated as being up to 730 million years old. The rocks would have formed deep within Earth’s crust from molten rock.

Al Huqf area was not always a desert. About 300 million years ago, the area was covered with ice sheets. There is also evidence that, at one point, it was under a shallow tropical sea.

Geologists have been researching and mapping the region since the 1950s, gathering important information about the geological evolution of the Arabian Gulf region along the way. International teams continue to do so, carrying out explorations of the area. Now, students from universities all over the world visit

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The geology of Oman represents a history of more than 800 million

years and resembles almost all the chapters of tectonic events and

climatic conditions through Earth’s history

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the area to study and explore the fascinating landscape.

These rocks are also important to the oil industry in Oman. Oil company geologists who wish to understand the layers that make up an oil or gas reservoir will travel to Al Huqf to examine the same rocks that I came across during my journey.

“The Huqf area is a special one for geologists because there are rocks to look at from almost all of Oman’s geological history,” according to the Geological Society of Oman, a non-profit society formed in April 2001.

“Oman is well known as the paradise of geology. The geology of Oman represents a history of more than 800 million years and resembles almost all the chapters of tectonic events and climatic conditions through Earth’s history.

“Here you can see the initiation and development of life of this wonderful planet.”

A geologist once said that “Oman is one big wonderful outdoor geological museum, with stories to tell everywhere”. I now understand what he meant. The rich natural heritage and rocks of Al Jobah will continue to reveal the secrets of Earth for many years to come.

The Huqf area is a special one for

geologists because there are rocks to look at

from almost all of Oman’s geological

history

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G A L L E R Y

C H E E K Y C H A R L I E INTERNATIONAL CHARLIE CHAPLIN MIME ARTIST DIEGO ANDRES SPANÓ, OF BUENOS AIRES, THRILLED SHOPPERS AT CITY CENTRE MUSCAT WITH THREE COMEDY PERFORMANCES DURING THE EID BREAK

INTerNeT SAFeTY FOr CHILDreN IS PARAMOUNT IN THIS DAY AND AGE, BUT THE LeSSONS BeGIN AT HOMe,

SAYS FELICITY GLOVER

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It’s not enough these days to drill into your children the importance of stranger danger on the streets.

With much of our lives dominated by the internet and all that it has to offer – from chat rooms to interactive games, social-media platforms, smartphone chat apps and millions of websites to visit – there are a host of dangers lurking on the Web.

Until recently, our family had managed to avoid the negative side of the internet, but a requirement last year by my daughter’s school in Denmark that all Year Five students have a laptop put paid to that.

It wasn’t long before she was spending what I believe was too much time on her computer, not only at school but also at home – on the premise of doing homework, of course.

According to a report by Ofcom, released in October last year, 91 per cent of all children in the UK between the ages of five and 15 used the internet in 2013, much of it unsupervised.

In our home, rules were set: strict time limits and no Facebook, Twitter or other websites that would attract what could remotely be perceived as an adult demographic.

But thanks to peer pressure, there was Minecraft, WhatsApp, Snapchat, Kik Messenger, Club Penguin and Google Hangouts. In the beginning, I thought Minecraft – a virtual Lego where players create fantasy worlds – was OK, even if I couldn’t see the point of it.

A couple of her friends would come over for play dates, laptops tucked under their arms, and they would build “worlds” together. At least they were talking as they built.

But then came the day when my daughter was too trusting and a stranger “invaded” a world she was creating – and promptly destroyed it. I presume it was just a child in a bad mood but, all the same, she was in tears and didn’t know how to get them to leave.

She logged out immediately, but the lesson had been learned – despite my many warnings about interacting with people she didn’t know on the internet. In this case, it wasn’t as serious as it could have been. But it took a personal experience for her to finally understand what I was talking about.

But if I hadn’t walked into her room at the moment it was happening, I wonder if I would have ever known.

My suspicion is confirmed by Frank Gallagher, the executive director of Cable in the Classroom, a US-based education foundation that advocates sensible and effective use of media in homes and schools.

“Kids make mistakes,” he told soundsafefamily.com recently. “But multiple studies have shown that children often won’t go to parents and caregivers when something bad happens online.

“That’s because they think mum or dad won’t understand, will take away their phone or computer, or will intervene but only make things worse.

“It’s hard to keep kids safe when they’re not letting you into their digital life.”

And that is the crux of the problem, particularly for parents with older children or teens.

One student from British School Muscat admits that social media has taken over the lives of many teenagers in Oman.

“Children from the age of nine are signing up to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and they are accessible by any online predator,” she says, adding that children need to have a certain amount of responsibility to deny friend and follower requests from strangers and people who may be pretending to be somebody else.

“For example, a girl received a friend request from someone claiming to be the famous Harry Styles [from teen band sensation One Direction]. She unknowingly accepted the invitation and the man began talking to her in the role of Harry Styles,” the student says.

“The person interacting with her was obviously not who they claimed to be and this is an example of an online predator.”

Many internet safety experts agree that the first step to protecting children on the Web is to talk to them about responsibility, to limit what they share and to explain the dos and don’ts of online behaviour.

The student at BSM agrees.“To keep your children safe, I recommend talking

to them about the responsibility they have for their own safety.”

Top 10 tips for youngsters

1. Don’t post any personal information online, such as your home address, email address or mobile number.

2. Think carefully before posting pictures or videos of yourself. Once you’ve put a picture of yourself online, most people can see it and may be

able to download it – it’s not just yours any more.

3. Keep your privacy settings as high as possible.

4. Never give out your passwords.

5. Don’t befriend people you don’t know.

6. Don’t meet up with people you’ve met online. Speak to your parents if people suggest you do.

7. Remember that not everyone online is who they say they are.

8. Think carefully about what you say before you post something online.

9. Respect other people’s views. Even if you don’t agree with someone else’s

opinion, it doesn’t mean you need to be rude.

10. If you see something online that makes you feel

uncomfortable, unsafe or worried, leave the website,

turn off your computer if you want to, and tell a

trusted

adult immediately.

Source: www.

safetynetkids.org.uk

0 2 5

DRIVE

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AWAY WITH AN

IPAD MINI 2

Fancy winning an iPad mini? It couldn’t be simpler. Y Magazine has teamed up with Lincoln Oman, Ford’s luxury car brand, to give away four 16GB iPad mini 2s over the next month to our readers, one every week.

All you have to do is impress us with your best Lincoln selfie. What’s a Lincoln selfie, you ask?

Well, it’s just as it says – a selfie of you that is related to the iconic Lincoln. This could be a picture of you posing with one of the cars. Or it could be one of you holding up a photo of the iconic car, a selfie of you with Lincoln-branded merchandise, such as a mug, cap, or t-shirt, or even the famous Lincoln logo. Use the internet to help or inspire you.

The more creative you are, the more impressed our judges will be. But you must remember to include the Lincoln brand in your photo, otherwise

you won’t qualify to enter the competition.To help you, there are two Lincoln cars currently on display in Muscat

– an MKX All-Wheel Drive (changing to MKZ on Aug 8) in City Centre Muscat mall until Aug 22 and a luxury SUV Navigator at Marina Bandar al Rowdha. Alternatively, you can pop into the Ford showroom at Wattayah, where you’ll find a range of Lincolns to pose with.

Be innovative, think outside the box and come up with some quirky ways to stand out from the crowd.

To enter and win the first iPad mini 2, simply post your selfie on Y’s Facebook page and hashtag it with #lincolnoman or send it to our Instagram account – but don’t forget to follow and tag ytabloid.

You can also post it on the Lincoln Oman Facebook page – ensure you follow the account and include the hashtag #lincolnoman – or

● Henry Leland, the founder of the original Lincoln Motor Company, named the car after his hero, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States who was assassinated in 1865. ● The Lincoln was added to Ford’s product line in 1922.

● The Lincoln has been a favourite of the rich and famous for years, including philanthropist and businessman Nelson Rockefeller, who was also the US vice president from 1974 until 1977, and US crooner and actor Frank Sinatra. Former president George W Bush senior was the last American president to use the Lincoln for official duties.

● The Lincoln car featured in the 2011 Hollywood blockbuster The Lincoln Lawyer, which starred Matthew McConaughey in the title role, Ryan Phillippe and William H Macy.

● Names of early models of the Lincoln included the Model L, Model K, Model KA, Model KB, the Zephyr, Cosmopolitan, Capri and Premiere Continental.

● The 21st-century Lincoln has evolved into a range of high-tech, luxury saloons and SUVs, such as the MKS, MKT, MKX, MKZ and the Navigator, while the MKC will make its market debut next year.

● Lincoln will have a dedicated showroom in Muscat by the end of November.

ThE LOWDOWN ON ThE LINCOLN

send it to Lincoln’s Instagram account. Just make sure you follow and tag @lincoln_oman.

The winner will be judged on their creativity, while the prize will have to be collected at the Ford showroom in Wattayah.

See, it’s really simple. Send your entries by August 11 (late entries will not be entertained!) and don’t forget to include your name and contact details.

Good luck!

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fOOD

DRINKAND

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

TRUTh OR DAREThere’s a lot of hype surrounding so-called

“healthy” foods. Like granola, you’ll find that much of it is just as unhealthy as foods

that we know for sure are bad for us.

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

W ith new fad foods coming out daily and items that are supposedly healthy being slated as quickly as they are praised, it’s easy to feel baffled.

If you’re like me and can’t quite work out what’s fad and what’s fact, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the most-plugged snacks and ingredients.

FruitKnown for its health benefits, fruit contains excellent nutrients

and fibre – but it is also high in sugar. Too much sugar, regardless of where it comes from, is not good for you. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 30 grams of sugar a day for women, and 45g for men. The US Department of Agriculture recommends men and women consume two cups of fruit a day, but two cups of sliced banana contains 36g of sugar – more than the recommended amount for women. High sugar consumption has been linked to cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. The top offenders are oranges, at 17g of sugar a cup, bananas, with 18g a cup, and grapes, with 23g a cup.

Vegetable crispsTouted as a healthy substitute for crisps, we kid ourselves that

these count towards our recommended five servings of fruit and veg a day. But the truth is there is very little vegetable in the final product – it’s mainly potato flour, spinach powder and beet juice for colouring. Get a mandoline so you can thinly slice your vegetables to make your own crisps, that way you know exactly what has been added.

Healthy oilsIndustrial seed and vegetable oils contain masses of omega-6

fatty acids, and eating too much of these can cause inflammation. The vegetable oils you find in the supermarket contain between 0.56 and 4.2 per cent trans fats, which are toxic. Grass-fed butter is a great source of the fatty acid butyrate and Vitamin K2, both of which are beneficial. A Harvard Medical School Study found that replacing butter with margarine drastically increased your risk of heart disease.

SushiFish is high in omega-3 fatty acids and high in protein, so we

assume sushi is good for us. But don’t be fooled – popular dishes, such as shrimp tempura, can contain up to 500 calories. Avoid Americanised sushi, which contains cheese or mayonnaise, and stay away from fried options.

Whole wheatWhile this is definitely healthier than refined wheat, it doesn’t

mean it is the ultimate health food. Wheat is our main source of gluten, but some people’s immune systems attack gluten proteins, damaging the lining of the digestive tract. Wheat fibre can make you deficient in Vitamin D and one study found whole wheat raised high-density LDLs (aka bad cholesterol) by 60 per cent. You don’t have to avoid whole wheat completely, but be aware of its drawbacks.

GranolaOften described as a healthy breakfast option, granola can

contain up to 500 calories in a serving and is packed with sugar and fat. Some common brands contain high amounts of fructose

Many of the much-hyped “miracle” snacks are actually bad for your health, warns Esmee Brunton

hIDDEN DANGERS IN YOUR ‘hEALThY’DRINKS ❶ VITAMIN WATER This was promoted so well that we all bought into this “miracle” drink. But with a high sugar and high calorie content, it’s better to drink water and get your vitamins from fruit and veg or a multivitamin.

❷ DIET SODA According to the University of Miami, studies show a correlation between diet soda and the likelihood of stroke or a heart attack. Aspartame, the sweetener frequently used in these drinks, has been linked to headaches, anxiety and moodiness.

❸ FRUIT jUICE Often containing nothing but water, flavourings and sugar, fruit juice is deceptive. It contains the same amount of sugar as a can of coke, so can cause tooth decay, obesity and type 2 diabetes. Use a smoothie maker to avoid the extra sugar and don’t lose any of the fibre from the pulp.

fACT ORfALLACY?

corn syrup and trans fats. Sugar makes up a third of the calorie content. Look for brands that contain oats as the primary ingredient, with sweetener much further down the list.

Protein barsThese are only really necessary if you’re not getting enough protein in your

diet or are desperately trying to bulk up. Many are filled with sugar and fructose syrup and contain a lot of calories (often more than 200), despite not actually satisfying your appetite. Regardless of what benefits the packaging boasts of, read the ingredients list on the back. If sugar, syrup or honey is one of the first ingredients then the bar is laden with sugar. Avoid if it contains more than 200 milligrams of sodium a bar and more than 10g of fat.

YoghurtYoghurt with a layer of fruit at the bottom of the pot often contains as much

sugar as a can of soda. Dannon’s blueberry yoghurt contains 25g of sugar. A healthier alternative is to add fruit to plain yoghurt.

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It’s safe to say that my family can be described as “culinary demanding”. When we head to a restaurant, we

have a checklist of expectations: delicious, good-quality food, a clean environment and an enjoyable ambience, not to mention if the establishment is worthy of the money we will be spending.

Luckily, Annab, which specialises in Lebanese food, passed each and every one of our demands – and did so with style.

Opened just two weeks ago, Annab has replaced popular Italian restaurant O Sole Mio in the JAS Complex in Shatti Al Qurum. While Muscat’s Italian food lovers might be disappointed to hear that one of their favourite restaurants is no longer operating, Annab is a worthy replacement and appears to be already making a legacy of its own.

As we entered the restaurant, the head waiter brightened our mood as he greeted us with a few well-timed

jokes. The restaurant was relatively empty, so we had a choice of tables. The cleverly lit dining room is classy, while the waiters were smartly dressed in shirt sleeves and ties.

The walls are decorated with stylish photographs of the Roman ruins in Lebanon, while a picture of the stunning ranges of Mount Lebanon takes pride of place. There’s no two ways about it: the owner’s intention of providing a fine dining experience to customers almost makes me feel guilty for strolling in with my faded shorts and t-shirt.

I know the trend for diners seeking unique experiences dominates the food scene these days, but I have to say that sometimes it is more satisfying to enjoy a meal in a simple, yet stylish restaurant that focuses on pampering its customers – and Annab achieves this in spades.

But now to why we were here: the food.

The menu offers a range of classic Lebanese dishes, from cold and mezza to soups and baked and barbequed dishes. My parents and I are not that well-versed in Lebanese cuisine, but our waiter, Ali, was happy to help, providing us with expert guidance.

For starters, my mother ordered the lentil soup. The rest of us ordered a labneh with garlic from

the cold mezza choices, which is served with an unlimited supply of bread, and a hot mezza dish called makanek debbs el rouman.

We couldn’t have been more satisfied with our starters. The labneh, a form of yogurt, was blended with garlic and olive oil. It had the right consistency and was extraordinary as a dip for the bread. This probably explained why Ali served us three baskets of bread in just 15 minutes. Yes, it was that more-ish.

The makanek dish consisted of lamb sausages mixed with a

tangy pomegranate syrup sauce. The sauce was perfect: a wonderful balance of sweet and sour that saw us almost drown

the sausages in it. We also tried a baked cheese dish

similar to pizza, but made with soft Lebanese bread. The melted cheese on top was sinfully delightful.

We decided to share two mains between the three of us: a tawook, or a barbequed chicken dish, and kabab khshkhash, a lamb kebab resting on a bed of chopped tomatoes and onions.

The chicken tawook was served between two thin slices of bread and came with a side of fries and mayonnaise. The chicken was perfectly cooked, albeit a little too bland for our liking. But there was really nothing to complain about as

we still found it enjoyable. But it was the tender lamb kebab

that stole the show, prompting my hard-to-impress father to declare it one of the best dishes he’d eaten in Oman. The tomatoes and onion were a perfect combination with the lamb, which also went well with the other accompaniments of chillies and spinach.

We washed down the meal with a fresh juice. My mother and I plumped for the orange juice, while my father tried the pomegranate. The juices were a perfect ending to the meal as we decided to skip dessert because we were full. However, it appears they have the usual assortment of cheesecake, Arabic sweets and walnut cake.

In a land where kebabs and grilled food items are plentiful, it can be a surprise to find a restaurant that manages to serve them as a fine dining option. But what a wonderful surprise Annab turned out to be.

verdict:

Classy, tasty and well-priced

9 10

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

DRINKAND R E V I E W S

Info BoxAnnAB RESTAURAnT

JAS Complex, Shatti Al QurumTel: 2460 1343

Opening times: 11am-3pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm

Dinner for three people RO28.6

Y Magazine reviews anonymously and pays for its meals

STYLE AND SUbSTANCETHE RECENTLY OPENED ANNAB reSTAUrANT OFFERS A LeBANeSe FINe DINING ExPERIENCE THAT IS ALSO GreAT vALUe FOr MONeY, WRITES SIDDHARTH SESHAN

OMN_5366_MINI_Cooper_Ramadan_Y_Magazine_24x34cm_Eng.indd 1 6/18/14 6:18 PM

J U L 24 – 3 0 / I S S U E 3 3 00 3 2

HEALTH&BEAUTY

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

A U G 0 7 – 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 10 3 2

BOhO BABES The hippy look may have peaked in the 1970s, but the trend for embroidered

cotton, ethnic prints and floral headwear is back. This top

is from Monsoon’s children’s range, but you can get similar

pieces from the souq for a fraction of the price.

A U G 0 7 – 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 1 0 3 3

SUMMER STUNNERSFrom stripes and sunnies to swimwear and sandals, these are fun childrenswear pieces for the warm weather, says Penny Fray

1. Childrenswear should always be fun. It helps them explore their identity and express their style, so let them have a say in what they wear. 2. Replace your traditional lingerie shades of black or nude with bold brights. Just make sure you stick to one shade of coloured lace to keep it from looking cheap and nasty. 3. Little ones should wear sunglasses, but it’s important to note that not every pair of shades will do. Ideally, they should have a wrap-around frame to protect from peripheral light and be transparent enough to see a child’s eyes. Look for lenses that feature both UVA and UVB ray protection.COOL KIDS

Penny’s tips on buying clothes and accessories for children:

Keeping youngsters amused during the summer can be a strain, but even tougher is keeping them stylish in Muscat’s searing heat. The secret? Go for something pretty yet practical in pastels, stripes and sun-friendly

material. Take your little ones on a dhow boat while dressed in this season’s

stripes. Designers have eschewed an obvious nautical theme in favour of fresher interpretations with denim, dots and daring colours.

If you’re going the classic route with Breton stripes, step away from anchor logos and head-to-toe naval accessories. We love Marks & Spencer’s quirky whale emblem.

Talking of which, wildlife logos are big news this season in childrenswear, in particular elephants and lions, as are leopard and giraffe prints in unusual colour combinations – perfect for a trip to a Peta-approved zoo. Other popular prints include spots and flowers.

Bored of bright blocks? A rainbow of soft candy shades reign throughout most high street collections. The best thing about the pastel trend? You can co-ordinate it with ice cream. The cooling treat is easy to make and doing this is a fun diversion for mini cooks when it’s too hot for outdoor adventures.

Finally, don’t forget statement accessories. Some sunglasses on the market are so cool that we secretly wish they did adult versions. But don’t skimp on quality – young eyes need to be protected from the glaring sun. Ditto skin, so make sure you slather on sunscreen.

This Snapper Rock hibiscus UPF 50+ set is the perfect choice for the beach. It features a blue flower-print one-piece, a stripy rash top with flat seams and adjustable ties for a versatile fit. Best worn together for maximum protection in the sun. From RO37

This nautical inspired top is a classic. Available at M&S from RO6

Make sure she stands out this season with these bright honey sunglasses from Sons and Daughters. Designed with glittery pink hexagonal frames, these are the ultimate in retro chic. From RO40

For a laid-back surfer feel, boys can slip on these toe-post sandals with lightweight blue mesh. Easy wearing with shorts or jeans, these fabulous flip flops from Clarks are available in whole and half sizes and feature a flexible, non-marking sole. They are also available in pink for girls. From RO11

H&M’s pastel dress boasts a pretty retro shape. Patterned with playful daisies, this 1950s style is perfect for parties, but takes on a casual, sportier look when teamed with pumps and a visor. From RO16

Gap’s hooded top is super cool and comfortable.

Crafted in the U.S, it will seamlessly slot into your child’s casual wardrobe. Wear it with jeans, or

layer it over a t-shirt when the weather

gets cooler. From RO15

A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 10 3 4

HEALTH&BEAUTY

H E A LT H B e a u t y f a s h i o n

Are you one of those people who is always on the move, dashing around with 101 things

to do and not enough hours in the day to finish everything in time? Me too. At least, I was.

Once, I was a slave to my smartphone. There was a constant stream of work emails to answer and send, endless lists and tasks occupying my mind. Hours blended into one another and weekends disappeared under a mound of work. It was like being on a roller-coaster ride that never stopped.

Until one day I got off. Or rather I was forcibly removed after fracturing my wrist. Suddenly, I had to slow down whether I liked it or not.

Physically, I wasn’t able to cope with the same workload – my left arm was in a cast for six weeks – so my demanding schedule had to take a backseat for the first time in a long while.

For a week or so, I was climbing the walls in sheer frustration at “doing nothing”.

And then something funny happened. I began to unwind. Like a spring that has been coiled in a box for years, I slowly unfurled and found my own shape and space again. I luxuriated in having time to appreciate

everything around me. In essence, I began to enjoy having nothing to do.

“It’s an irony of our modern lives that, while technology is continually invented that saves us time, we use that time to do more and more things, so our lives are more fast-paced and hectic than ever,” says Leo Babauta, the author of The Power of Less. Do Less. Get More Done.

“Life moves at such a fast pace that it seems to pass us by before we can really enjoy it.”

The key, he says, is to “rebel against a hectic lifestyle and slow down to enjoy life”.

Babauta practices what he preaches and learnt to reduce the pace of his life, finding a new sense of purpose in the process.

The secret? It’s all down to simplifying things, apparently.

“It’s a matter of placing limits, and focusing on the essential,” according to the father of six, who decluttered his house and his life.

I understand where he’s coming from. With my arm out of action, I had to use my energy and time wisely, prioritising tasks and sifting out what had to be done from the leftovers that could wait.

Rather than multitasking, the mantra of the busy, I discovered the art of single-tasking. As everything slowed down, my

brain, ironically, seemed to speed up. Instead of being crammed with thoughts, lists and demands, it was free to focus on less and was sharper as a result.

“A slower-paced life means making time to enjoy your mornings, instead of rushing off to work in a frenzy,” agrees Babauta.

“It means taking time to enjoy whatever you’re doing or who you’re with, instead of always being connected to an iPhone or laptop, instead of always thinking about work tasks and emails. It means single-tasking rather than switching between a multitude of tasks and focusing on none of them.”

Now that my wrist is on the mend and I’m back to work full-time, have I slipped back into my wicked ways? No, is the simple answer.

While I have to work as hard as ever, I’m approaching things in a different way – I’m less frenzied and more focused. I’m also making sure to take time out during the day and at weekends.

Breaking my wrist, it turned out, was a blessing in disguise. I learnt that living is precious and best enjoyed at a slow pace.

As the great Mahatma Gandhi once said: “There is more to life than increasing its speed.”

TIPS TO hELP YOU SLOW DOWN:▼ Do Less. Focus on what’s important, what really needs to be done that day and let go of the rest. Put space between tasks and appointments, so you move through your days at a more leisurely pace. ▼ Be Present. Don’t spend time worrying about something that has already happened or something that might happen. Focus on what’s going on right now.▼ Disconnect. Leave your smartphone at home and go for a walk.▼ Eat slower. Stop cramming in food as quickly as possible. Be mindful of each bite, appreciate the flavour and texture. Eating slowly has the double benefit of making you feel fuller with less food and making the food taste better.▼ Drive slower. Speed is a prevalent habit in our fast-paced world, but it’s also responsible for a lot of traffic accidents and stress. Make it a habit to slow down when you drive. Make it a peaceful time to contemplate your life. Driving will be more enjoyable and much safer.▼ Single-task. Focus on one thing at a time. When you feel the urge to switch to other tasks, pause, breathe and pull yourself back.

If your life is always on fast forward, perhaps it’s time to put the brakes on and take it easy, says Kate Ginn

* Source zenhabits.net

TRENDSTRaighTEN Up YoUR acT

It’s time to go straight – your hair that is. Say goodbye to the big, bouncy blow dry – it’s all about getting your straighteners out again, according to Chloé, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren and Miu Miu. There was a distinct lack of volumised roots on the catwalk, with hair slicked close to the scalp at Marc by Marc Jacobs, Anthony Vaccarello, Valentino and Prabal Gurung.

aL

ER

T

If there’s one up-do to wear this season, it’s the twist, ideally casually dishevelled as seen at the latest Tom Ford, Rochas, Giambattista Valli and Michael Kors shows. From the High French (left) to the Upside Down, they are chic and easy to do. Want to know more? Check out: www.latest-hairstyles.com

A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 1 0 3 5

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

STYLE coUNSEL

Barbra Young, a former designer and retailer

BARBRA YOUNG ANSWERS YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS

Dear TT,Sticky and muddy fingers make a real mess of pristine shirts, while pencil skirts are no fun to run in. Sloppy

t-shirts and baggy pants are not going to make you feel great about yourself, either.You can utilise your previous clothing for those rare nights you can go out. But for your everyday life, it’s time for a wardrobe makeover! This season, I have fallen in love with crocheted cotton lace tops, pants and dresses. These garments are easy to wash, look chic, come in great colours, are cool and, best of all, are comfortable. They look amazing in white, but other colours would suit your purpose better. There’s no need to spend huge amounts of money. Just visit the many souks in Muscat or look around in the malls. Remember to focus on fit; nothing too big. Wear the tops with slim-fitted crop pants or jeans. Try to find slim caftans in this fabric, too. A knee-length or maxi-length caftan are versatile and will take you from morning to night – just add heels and costume jewellery.

If you have any fashion questions for Barbra, email

info@y-oman.com or tweet #style

@ytabloid

I am a stay-at-home mother of a toddler. Even though I can now get back into my pre-baby clothes, nothing looks or feels right on me any more! Any hints on what

I should be wearing to celebrate getting my waistline back, but still be comfortable chasing my son? My previous wardrobe is fairly corporate.TT, Seeb.

Q.

A.

Get the look:Sleek down those unruly curls with L’Oreal’s Anti-Frizz Serum. Simply spray and leave in to tame your locks.

Do

The

Tw

ist

TOO LATE? DON’T WORRY. GET Y INSTANTLY ONLINE USING YOUR MOBILE DEVICES & PCVisit www.y-oman.com/current-issue/

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A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 1 0 3 7

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

CARS ANDADVENTURES

ONE OF A KINDThe Bimmah sinkhole is a

cool oasis for a refreshing swim and a great city

escape.

A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 10 3 8

CARS ANDOUTDOORS

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

Destination

BIMMAH SINKHOLEThe crystal-clear waters provide one of the

most picturesque swims in Oman, says Kate Ginn. Photos by Kate Osowska

Floating in emerald-tinted water with a clear blue sky and blazing sunshine overhead could be the

backdrop of many locations in the Sultanate. The only clue that you are somewhere uniquely different is the towering limestone rockfaces looming above, casting shadows across your face.

Swimming in a geological phenomenon is quite something.

It’s no surprise that the sinkhole at Bimmah, a cavernous limestone bowl, is a popular tourist attraction that draws thousands of people who want to take a dip in such a spectacular setting.

What might be more of a surprise is that we’re featuring it on these pages. Our wandering adventurer and Y photographer, Jerzy Wierzbicki, usually prefers to visit locations that are off the beaten track.

But with Jerzy taking a well-deserved break from his travels, we decided to choose something a little easier to find, but nonetheless deserving of our attention.

Found off the Quriyat to Tiwi coastal highway on the way to Sur, the Bimmah sinkhole is considered one of the more beautiful of its kind, with crystal-clear waters carving a hole through the soft limestone.

These amazing creations are formed when groundwater travels through easily dissolved rock such as limestone, carbonates and salt beds. The water eats away at the rocks over time, leaving subterranean holes and caverns.

When the roof of one of these caverns collapses, the land above it falls in too, leaving giant holes. The one at Bimmah is 20 metres deep, a baby in size in comparison with others, some of which are reportedly as wide as 600m.

On arrival, you’ll see that, thankfully, the sinkhole has not succumbed to consumerism and been ruined. It remains a simple attraction with a small park area. What additions have been made – a wall and stairs into the hole – have, in our view, been done sympathetically. And it’s free to use. Take a lunch with you and you can

picnic here.What’s great about this place is

that it’s easily accessible, so a great spot for families and day trippers from Muscat. Many combine the sinkhole with a trip to Wadi Shab – it’s a nice place to stop en route. It also breaks up the journey from Muscat to Turtle Beach Resort in Sur, being exactly the halfway point.

You can actually camp overnight – some visitors do – at a wonderful spot overlooking the ocean opposite the site.

To get to the limestone hollow, you have to descend 40 to 50 steps of a concrete stairway leading to the base of the hole. From there, you can walk straight into the vibrant turquoise waters. Above you is the dramatic, soaring rockface.

Muscat-based photographer Kate Osowska, who took these images, took the plunge. But not before she captured some wonderful pictures from the top, looking down into the sinkhole below.

In the shallows, you’ll be greeted by some of the small resident fish nibbling at your feet and toes, a weird but not unpleasant experience. The water is clear and, at deeper spots, refreshingly cool, a welcome relief when it is 40°C at the top.

Swim to the dark, deep waters and clamber on to rock ledges, from

A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 1 0 3 9

From Muscat, take the road to Sur and pass Quriyat, where you can stop if you wish. This quaint fishing village is well worth a look — there’s a fort, too — and a great spot to capture some scenic photographs.Continue along highway 17 towards Sur and follow the signs to Hawiyat Najm Park. Once you’re close to the exit, there are signposts saying “Sinkhole”. When you turn off the highway, turn left – don’t follow the direction to bimmah or you’ll miss the sinkhole. It’s about one kilometre from the main highway.There are basic toilets and changing rooms. The walk to the sinkhole is less than 100 metres from the parking area.

GPs location: 23° 2’9.81”N 4’19.07”ETRAV

EL G

UIDE

which you can jump back into the water – it’s deep enough. Or simply float on your back gazing up at the top and the sky, a great way to spend a few hours and marvel at one of nature’s amazing creations.

While the sinkhole might not be worth a trip on its own, it’s good to visit if you’re passing by or fancy combining it with a camp by the ocean – you’ll find your own little spot of coastal heaven, with empty beaches and soft sand providing an intimate spot to relax.

You won’t be disappointed, I promise you. It’s a memorable experience and unique part of Oman.

HoW to Get tHeRe

0 4 0

CARS ANDOUTDOORSCARS ANDADVENTURES

A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 1

thrills, spills and speed – you will find it all and more when you go quad biking through the sands of Bawshar. Siddharth Seshan gave it a (dune) bash

A U G 0 7 - 1 3 / I S S U E 3 3 1 0 4 1

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

hundering down a steep, golden sand dune with the wind in your hair, the sun on your back – and your heart in your mouth – is an exhilarating, if somewhat nerve-wracking experience, and one on offer in our backyard.

I decided to bravely make my mark on Bawshar’s pristine dunes for the first time – and bumping across the sands with the mountains on my left and the city on my right was an unforgettable thrill.

It was easy to find a quad bike for hire. As I approached the dunes, there were neat rows of parked bikes and an employee from Bike Planet – who was sensibly sheltering from the sun under what looked like a makeshift shack – ran over to greet me and tell me about the rental fees, which are charged on an hourly basis.

The rental assistant then quizzed me on whether I wanted a manual bike or an automatic. Given my lack of experience with bikes and changing gears, there was no question – automatic is much easier for beginners.

While he went to get me a bike, I turned to admire the mighty sand dunes. I didn’t expect them to be so big and the thought of driving up them was going to be more of an adventure than I had expected.

A quick lesson in bike control followed before I set off. Basically, I was told the left brake was for the front wheels, the right brake for the rear. The gearstick has three options – drive, neutral and reverse – while the clutch is at the bottom. And that was my lot, a very short and sweet guide to controlling a huge quad bike.

“Would you like a helmet?” the assistant asked. Absolutely, even though few other bikers seemed to be not sporting one. Better safe than sorry, especially when you’re a novice.

Suddenly, I was at the bottom of a dune with a rather steep uphill track looming ominously in front of me. I debated whether to throw caution to the wind and tackle the monster, but my friendly guide kindly pointed out that there was a more gradual track a little further along. That definitely sounded more like my level, so off I went.

As I made my way up the dune, I quickly got the hang of controlling the quad bike. There really wasn’t much to it despite my initial trepidation and it was great fun. Soon, I was at the top of the dune and mesmerised by the sprawling sands stretching into the distance.

Next was the nerve-wracking part – getting back down. There were plenty of used tracks I could try, with various slopes and difficulty levels. I made my way into the dunes, going as fast as I could handle. It was a little tricky to control at first, but the more you ride, the better you get.

The dunes are mostly pristine, although there is an unfortunate amount of plastic waste that has been dumped in some areas. As I sped along the bumpy paths, sandwiched between the mountains and the city, the warm wind caressing my face and the roar of the engine in my ears, a calmness washed over me.

But be careful not to get distracted by the stunning sights and sounds. Always be aware that in some areas, the sand is very fine and deep, so you could find it difficult to get any traction. I discovered this the hard way, and got stuck in a deep downhill stretch of sand. It looked magical, and I felt guilty disturbing it with my fleeting attempts to accelerate out of my trap. I spent about 10 minutes trying to wriggle the bike back and forward and finally managed to escape, with a huge sigh of relief. I quickly learnt from my mistake and scouted out any potential sticky areas, making sure I stayed far away from them.

After a few jaunts up and down the dunes, going at various speeds and in all directions, I made my way back to base with sand in my socks and sweat on my brow. It was a thrilling and unique experience that you can only enjoy in a few places in the world. Riding the quad bike ignited my imagination – I pictured myself as a true daredevil competing in a high-speed dirt track ATV race. As soon as you sit on that bike and start to accelerate, you realise it isn’t that complicated. Instead, it’s an easy and fun experience. There are only two things you really need to know – the left brake is for the front wheels, the right is for the back.

Price: RO10 per hour for manual and RO15 per hour for automatic.

Ride when the sun goes down. It can get very hot with the sun beating down on you and the sand reflecting the heat back up. Go when the sun is setting or in the winter. Make sure you carry water to keep hydrated while you sweat.

Wear closed and compact shoes. With all the sand around, you don’t want to end up with socks and shoes filled with the stuff.

Wear a helmet. You don’t want to take any chances and end up with a head injury.

Give the bike a quick inspection. Some of the bikes might look quite old and rundown. If you are not comfortable with the condition, request another one.

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TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT:1. dead sea2. Petra & Wadi Rum3. Jordan River4. Temple of Hercules on Citadel Hill5. aqaba

TALL ORDERThe historically

important ruins of the Temple

of Hercules sit atop Citadel Hill and tower over the downtown

area of Amman.

CARS ANDADVENTURES

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

My favourite place I don’t normally like the beach, but if you want to exfoliate your skin and take a good mud bath, the Dead Sea is the ideal place to float back, relax, and have a swim in minerals. This saltwater lake does not contain your average seawater – the mineral levels are higher than usual and the salt concentration is nine times that of the ocean at about 31.5 per cent, with a density of 1.240 kilograms a litre. This means you float rather than swim. One of the most intriguing things about the Dead Sea is what gives it its macabre name – no ocean life can survive in its waters. But you will find plenty of life at the Dead Sea, with countless tourists and locals flocking to it to float in the water. It’s very popular with families because it doesn’t require much effort and makes it easier for children to swim. The temperatures in Jordan tend to drop drastically at night, but one of my favourite moments was watching the sun set behind the Dead Sea as a cool breeze swept by.

Highlights The journey to the archaeological majesty of historic Petra was a delightful experience. You can’t take motor vehicles into the city; your only options are to go on foot, ride a donkey or horse, or take a donkey-drawn carriage. Dramatic and beautiful rocks can be admired as you travel down the Siq, also known as the Shaft, the entrance to Petra. This narrow, naturally formed path is made of split sandstone and offers a picturesque, patterned scene of golden orange as you make your way towards Petra’s most precious landmark, Al Khazneh, better known as the Treasury. This astonishing structure cut into the rock dates from 600 BC and is one of the city’s most famous sites. Beautifully crafted, it has the natural, rosy colour of sandstone and by the entrance you can catch a ride on a camel – my first time trying this nomadic tradition and a must-do experience. Lowlights If you think the heat in Muscat is bad, southern Jordan is no better. If you’re going to be visiting Petra or the Dead Sea, you will be exposed to direct sunlight, so carry sunscreen and stay hydrated. Souvenirs Like most Middle East countries, Jordan takes advantage of its Bedouin background and many of its souvenir products contain sand. If you appreciate arts and crafts, do not leave Jordan without a glass bottle filled with “sand art”. Creating a picture of the desert using layers of dyed sand is an intricate and skilled task, and the result is impressive.

Where to stay Jordan is very welcoming and I am grateful to have family there who showed me around the country, including popping in to look at several hotels. Considering the heat, I recommend the Holiday Inn in Amman, where the atmosphere and weather by the pool offers the perfect place to relax.

JORDANNatural Bridge iN Wadi rum

mud cleaNsiNg - dead sea

Areej Al Musalhi recommends

Petra

P erhaps the most extraord inary k ingdom in the midd le east , Jordan i s h ome to some of the wor ld ’ s greatest wonders and was the heart land of the arab ic- is lam ic emp ire i n the 7th century .

separated from Pa lest ine and israe l by the river Jordan, the country i s a ls o bordered by saud i arab ia to the south , syr ia to the north and i raq to the east .

the atmosphere i n Jordan i s very re lax ing - the country i s qu iet yet amus ing . a wa lk through the streets of the cap i ta l , amman, l ed me to the tast iest shawarma i ’ ve ever had, and i was l ucky enough to w i tness a wedd ing by a hote l p o o l .

Further af ie ld , you w i l l f i nd both a man-made and a natura l wonder of the wor ld - the anc ient and unforgettab le c i ty of Petra and the dead sea, famous for i ts h i gh sa l t content , natura l buoyancy and hea lth benef i ts .

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

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

sCRUB-A-dUB-dUB After your barbecue is over, the coals have died down and the guests have eaten everything in sight, the only thing left to do is to tidy up. I advise leaving the piles of dishes to someone else, on the condition that you clean the barbecue instead. You’ll be laughing all the way to the hammock if you pick up a Grillbot. This Ro46 automaton is the iRobot vacuum cleaner of the barbecue world. You can stick it on a still-hot grill and set it to go. It has three sets of steel brushes that will swab your decks in an organised fashion until the last bit of grit has been lifted. Once you’ve finished, remove the brushes and put them through the dishwasher (add it to your friends dish load). www.amazon.com

LICENCE TO GRILLThe summer heat is letting up a little, which means you can

spend more time outdoors enjoying barbecues without feeling like you’re the one being seared along with your juicy steak.

Matthew Herbst serves up the latest in al fresco trends

miGHtY meAtY FANCY SOMETHING DIFFERENT ON YOUR bARbECUE? SPICE THINGS UP bY ENJOYING YOUR FAVOURITE MEATbALL RECIPES PREPARED FRESH ON THE meAt GRill BAsket. MAKE LAMb, bEEF, TURKEY AND MORE, ALL IN THE SAME bATCH. THIS DURAbLE STAINLESS STEEL TOOL HOLDS 12 INNER bASKETS WITH PERFORATED WELLS THAT ALLOW THE FAT TO DRIP AWAY, AND YOU CAN COOK AND FLIP ALL THE MEATbALLS AT ONCE FOR EVEN COOKING. IT COMES WITH A COOLING HANDLE TO KEEP THE HEAT AT bAY. AFTER USE, SIMPLY HAND WASH. JUST DELICIOUS. ro19.23 AT WWW.WILLIAMS-SoNoMA.CoM

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EDITO

R’S P

ICK

eGGCellentCombining ancient methods with modern ceramic marvels can result in amazing culinary creations, even when you’re a novice. The Big Green egg can grill, is an oven and also a smoker. It’s easy to see why this has been touted as the most versatile barbecue and outdoor cooking product on the market. Grill steaks and fish to perfection and if the grill gets too hot, turn down the heat using the two dampers that come with the product. Prefer to roast or bake a treat for your guests? Simply utilise the conveGGtor to retain heat and moisture to lock the juices and flavours in – you’ll never bake indoors again. You can also impress your guests with a selection of smoked meats. Slow cook the meat at low temperatures for up to 18 hours to infuse it with an aromatic, wood-smoke flavour. A starter kit is available or you can pick and choose the size of your Big Green Egg to suit you and your social life. Prices start from Ro929 and the product is worth every penny if you love outdoor cooking. See www.biltong.co.uk for more information.

liGHt mY FiRe

The looftlighter is a Swedish-patented invention that ignites your charcoal grill or fireplace in 60 seconds without the need for lighter fluid, allowing you to start grilling in just five minutes. The charcoal starter emits extreme hot air at about 698°C. Just plug the device into a wall outlet, place the metal tip into the charcoal and hold the button down. When the charcoal sparks, remove the tip from the coals but continue to hold the device in the direction of the coals for 60 seconds and voila. Thankfully, the lighter has a cool-touch handle or it could get a little heated. It costs Ro29.14, visit www.amazon.com

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

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Hot tRiCk It can be a tough task trying to entertain and be a master chef at the same time. Get caught up in a conversation for just a tad too long and you’ll end up with burnt food and miffed guests. For peace of mind, try the iGrill 2. It’s a meat thermometer that connects to your mobile phone over Bluetooth. It’s easy to use – just insert the temperature probe into your meat selection, fire up the iGrill app and you can wander off to chat without having to worry about the cooking. There are different settings depending on what you’re making and how you would like it cooked, and you’ll hear an alarm on your phone when the food is cooked to perfection. Your iGrill comes with four probes and a touch-interface unit. The app also offers all sorts of control and graphical indications depending on how much you would like to impress guests with your new toy. Ro49.67 www.amazon.com

liGHtlY sAlted With the Himalayan salt Plate, you get grilled food that has never tasted better or was cooked so evenly. Just place the plate on the grill to eliminate the risk of charred steaks. The natural properties of the salt plate add depth to flavour and it’s great for any type of meat, fish or grilled vegetables. Alternatively, serve a fresh salad on the salt plate as it absorbs flavour without needing to over-do the spices. Ro15.40, www.williams-sonoma.com

neW At first glance, this looks like a satellite dish and your guests will wonder why the lunch table is set up nearby. Don’t be alarmed, it’s the solsource high-performance parabolic cooker that harnesses energy from the sun for outdoor cooking, with no fuel or emissions. Barbecue, grill, steam, bake, boil or fry purely from solar energy, guilt-free. This is one of many products from the growing range of One Earth Designs, inspired by the ongoing problem of indoor pollution from household stoves. www.oneearthdesigns.com for Ro153.62

solsoURCe CookeR

On sunny days, boil a litre of water in 10 minutes, reach grilling and baking temperatures in five minutes, and searing temperatures (up to 398ºC) within 10 minutes.

Designed and tested out in the Himalayan mountains, the solar cooker withstands even the toughest environmental conditions. The frame is made from carbon steel, with the panels from outdoor endurance plastic.

The pot stand can support most cookware, kettles, pots and grill plates. It can be used to grill, steam, bake, boil or fry.

Align the 360° rotatable, reflective parabolic dish so that the focal point hits the bottom of the pot, and you are ready to cook. Summer and winter settings are also available.

Aside from the pot stand, nothing on the solar cooker gets hot. The cover turns off the dish.

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Brawn, brains, beauty and breeding, the Ford mustang has it all… and then some. Kate Ginn tries out her dream car

Mustang GTSpecifications

Engine: 5.0L V8 Ti-VCTHorsepower: 420Transmission: Six-

speed manualAcceleration: 0-100kmh

in 4.7 secondsTop Speed: About

250kmh

One of the most difficult things in life, as you may know, is to impress an 11-year-old girl.

They’re notoriously fickle and demanding. As demonstrated when the Editor’s daughter, Cia, remarked that “it’s just a car”, as I picked her up in the Mustang that had been loaned to Y for a one-day test drive.

This was the car I had dreamed of driving since I was a little girl, younger even than Cia, and it was a thrill just to sit inside. My young passenger was evidently harder to win over. And then I put my foot down.

As the 5.0L engine growled into life like a spitting panther, with a rumbling noise that seemed to shake the ground, my young co-driver screamed “awesome”. Suddenly, in that moment, she appreciated the vehicle we were sitting in.

I was already long gone. I had been taken the moment that I clapped eyes on the red GT 5.0L V8 sitting on the forecourt, waiting for me. I ran my hands along the side and looked at the iconic logo, the galloping Mustang, surely one of the most instantly recognisable symbols in the car world and beyond. I could have been driving a Cougar – that was one of the names toyed with during the concept stage, and I found a black-and-white photograph on the internet of a prototype with a cougar emblem on the grille.

Personally, I’m glad they went with Mustang. This wild car – first

produced in April 1964 – is, for me, one of the most beautiful four-wheel creations, a piece of automotive art from bonnet to boot. It’s not just the physical car itself, but also the sheer authenticity of its history. It has charisma, heart and spirit. But most of all, it has passion.

So what’s it like to drive one? Well, it’s a journey in itself. Until very recently, there wasn’t a test drive Mustang car available in Oman. If you wanted one, you could look at them in the showroom and touch but not drive.

This has now changed. And Y was one of the first to enjoy a test drive. All that nagging to Ford Oman paid off. The Mustang is every bit as wonderful as I had imagined and more. The celebrated engine throbs at low speed. Accelerating is like thunder streaking on the road – the adrenaline shoots through your body.

As the horse moves seamlessly to full gallop, your stomach contracts. My goodness, it’s fast. The top speed is about 250kmh. Of course, I drove nowhere near that fast, but I could sense the power. The Mustang wants, no it demands, to be driven hard and fast. Like its equine namesake, this free-roaming beast does not want to be tethered.

It was a thrill using manual gears, the “stick shift”. Having lived away from the UK for some time, I had to get used to it all over again. I’d forgotten how good it feels. There’s nothing quite like slamming your foot down on to the clutch and

slipping up a gear notch. You’re in control of the car, holding the reins of the horse.

Inside, the Mustang is a visual treat, with a solid black leather dashboard, sports seats that grip you like a vice and three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with the famous silver logo in the centre. The Shaker 500 audio system with CD could blow your ears off at full volume. The interior also has a clever retro feel, but comes fully equipped with the latest hands-free technology with voice activation for phone calls and music.

The chrome touches everywhere are very cool, as is the ambient lighting and illuminated doorsills (standard on the GT 5.0L model). There’s also a rear-view camera for reversing (a reverse sensing system on the 3.7L V6 version) and the optional extra of a navigation system.

Safety features include stability control, front and rear stabilising bars and dual stage front airbags.

I kept noticing the looks of envy from fellow drivers as we roared past in a red blur.

My young passenger was, by now, a full convert to the Mustang cause and wanted us to overtake every vehicle on the road (Cia is clearly a girl racer in the making).

It was a wrench for both of us when we had to give back our red horse and return to a run-of-the-mill white saloon.

After the Mustang, it felt like driving a donkey.

CARS ANDADVENTURES

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

CAR OF THE WEEK

check this out

19” painted aluminium wheels Shaker 500 audio system Rear-wheel drive Microsoft SYNC

voice-activated hands- free communication and entertainment

Rear spoiler Leather sport seats Rear-view camera Ambient lighting Remote keyless entry Dual stainless steel exhaust

tips

They say: “The legend lives.”

We say: “Untamed icon.”